St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. Naperville IL st Sunday in Advent

Transcription

1 St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. Naperville IL st Sunday in Advent

2 St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL (Main Office) Visit us on the internet at (Religious Education) (Facsimilie) Parish Staff Rev. Joel Fortier Pastor, Rev. Rodolphe Arty, Associate Pastor, x 103, rarty@stapostle.org Rev. Bob Colaresi, O. Carm. Weekend Associate Fr. Pat Brennan, Weekend Associate, pbrennan@theclareatwatertower.com Rev. Mr. William Worden, D. Min. Deacon, x105 Rev. Mr. Chuck Lane Deacon, x220, chucklane2@juno.com Rev. Mr. Jim Breen Deacon, , jimb4853@yahoo.com Rev. Mr. Larry Kearney Deacon, x225, lrkearney@comcast.net Rev. Mr. Michael Barrett Deacon, x220, meabarrett@att.net Liturgy Kate Cuddy Director of Music and Liturgy, x112, kcuddy@stapostle.org Jessi Allured Asst. Director of Music and Liturgy, x111, jallured@stapostle.org Lori Culberson Liturgy Coordinator, x120, lculberson@stapostle.org Angie Tuttle Liturgy Office Assistant, x110, atuttle@stapostle.org Theresa Sheliga* Sacristan Coordinator, x116 Faith Formation Sandy Renehan, Principal at All Saints Catholic Academy Chari Rosales Director of Adult Education & RCIA x138, crosales@stapostle.org Kevin Pranaitis Director of High School Youth Ministry, x123, ym@stapostle.org Brett Adams Coordinator of Middle School Faith Formation, x117, Patti Dougherty Director of Religious Education, x109, pdougherty@stapostle.org Nancy Cirmo Religious Education Assistant, x118, ncirmo@stapostle.org Marge Coronado Religious Education Assistant, x219, mcoronado@stapostle.org Anne Schultz Adult Faith Formation Assistant, x113, aschultz@stapostle.org Lynne Vehlewald* Librarian, x125, library@stapostle.org Outreach and Social Justice Michael Ryder Director of Outreach & Social Justice, x121, mryder@stapostle.org Anne Schultz OSJ Partner, x113, aschultz@stapostle.org Sally Meno* OSJ Financial, x137, smeno@stapostle.org Pastoral Care Jan Olah Director of Pastoral Care, x124 Felicia Lawlor*, M.S., R.N. Faith Community Nurse, x104, flawlor@stapostle.org Rose Grumbine*, R.N., Faith Community Nurse, x104, rgrumbine@stapostle.org Administration Janet Simmons Finance/Business Officer, x106, jsimmons@stapostle.org Diane McQueen Gen Office Administrative Asst, x101, dmcqueen@stapostle.org Kathy Ferguson Gen Office Administrative Asst, x100, mainoffice@stapostle.org Marilyn DeMeo* Database Coordinator (T/Th), x107, mdemeo@stapostle.org Pat Berkhout Evening/Saturday Receptionist, x119, nitecrew@stapostle.org Angie Tuttle Bulletin Editor, Graphic Design, x110, atuttle@stapostle.org Susan Francesconi* Communications Coordinator, x108, sfrancesconi@stapostle.org Bob Hartmann Facility Manager, x133, facility@stapostle.org Pastoral Leadership Community John Ball Christine Berta Pam Foster Commission Facilitators Charles Haydon Nick Furibondo Richard Strassburger Worship Kate Cuddy Parish Life Faith Formation Chris Baker Administration Charles Haydon Service Carol Healy Sacrament of Reconciliation Reconciliation is available Saturday, 3:30 to 4:15 p.m., or after the 4:30 p.m. Mass in the Reconciliation Room of the Chapel. Fr. Joel is available during the week by appointment. Communal Penance services are held occasionally throughout the year. Sick and Home Bound Call the Church Office to receive prayer/eucharist from a priest, deacon or Minister of Care. Baptism Baptisms are usually celebrated 2-3 Sundays each month at a 12:30 p.m. service. On selected dates, Baptisms are celebrated at weekend Masses. Parents are required to attend an awareness and renewal evening prior to the Baptism. Call the Church Office a few months in advance to make arrangements. Matrimony A couple planning on being married at St. Thomas should contact the church six months in advance. One year is preferred. Either the bride or groom, or their parents, must be a registered parishioner for at least three months prior to calling to set a date. Religious Education Call the to register. RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) Any person wanting to learn more about the Catholic Faith, or to join our Catholic community should call the church at Counseling Service Call Samarian Interfaith or Jan Olah, Pastoral Care x 124. Sunday Nursery Nursery care is available for your child age one (walking) to four at the 9 & 10:45 a.m. Mass. For more information call the church office. Liturgy Schedule Daily (Monday Friday) Communion Service 6:30 a.m. Rosary 8:10 a.m. Mass 8:30 a.m. (Saturday) Communion Service 8:30 a.m. Weekend Saturday Vigil 4:30 p.m. Sunday 7:30, 9:00, 10:45 a.m., and 6:30 p.m. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every first Friday, 9:00 9:30 a.m. *indicates part-time staff

3 Dear Friends, Because of our faith, we are a people of Hope. We don t give up! We can dream dreams of a brighter future, of a world without war and destruction; we can work to make that dream a reality, we don t give up! Clearly, that is the vision of hope we are given from the Prophet Isaiah on this First Sunday of Advent, Come let us climb the Lord s mountain, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may instruct us in his ways... for from Zion shall go forth instruction...they shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; one nation shall not raise the sword against another, nor shall they train for war again. Come out of the dark and walk in the light of the Lord. Come let us walk in the light of the Lord! I don t know that we have been living according to the instruction of the Lord so well these past few years. But the Lord gives us hope that if we heed the instruction of the Lord, that we will inherit the Promise given in the prophetic Word of God. Is it too hard for us to do; is it too remote and abstract, or impossible for us to heed the word of God? Only each of us can know and decide that in our own hearts, and then to act on it. It is the challenge of Advent, to a conversion of heart and mind, to come out of the dark and to walk in the light of the Lord. St. Paul urges us in the second reading to awake from sleep and to throw off the works of darkness, and to put on the Lord Jesus Christ. In the gospel Jesus cries out to us, stay awake! We are not to slip into a near state of unconsciousness and allow ourselves to be swept along by the forces of deception, darkness, and death. We are not sentient billiard balls who just react and ricochet through life from forces that direct and control our lives, we are challenged to wake up and take charge of the direction and course of our lives. Because of our faith, we do believe in the power of God at work in us, we choose to be companions to each other, to be in a covenant love relationship with each other and all people in Christ. We begin to realize the dream and prophecy given to us from Isaiah of a world of peace. Come let us prepare our hearts for the Prince of Peace, Come Lord Jesus, Come! Make our hearts ready to receive you. First Sunday of Advent November 28, 2010 You must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come. Matthew 24:44 Welcome Guests and Visitors! We re so glad you re here and invite you to walk the path of faith with us. The community of St. Thomas strives to grow closer to Christ in all that we do. We care about each other and, with Christ, are Companions on the Journey. Would you like to become a Parishioner? Join us in the gym for Welcome Sunday after the following Masses: Sunday, December 5: 9:00 and 10:45am Happy Advent to one and all!

4 Worship Commission Sacrament of Reconciliation Thurs, Dec 2, 7:30 p.m. The parish communal celebration of reconciliation will be held this evening. Individual confession with a priest or time with a prayer partner will be available after the service. Sacrament of Anointing Sat, Dec 4, 4:30 Mass All who are suffering from illness, advanced age, or are anticipating surgery are welcome to receive the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. For more information, contact the Pastoral Care or Liturgy Office. Lessons and Carols Sun, Dec 5, 5:00 p.m. St. Thomas Music Makers join together for this seasonal offering. Advent and Christmas music and readings are combined in a prayerful setting. Treat yourself and your family to a quiet, inspiring experience. Presider s Schedule Dec 4/5 4:30 4:30 Fr. Joel Fortier 7:30 Fr. Dof Arty 9:00 Fr. Joel Fortier 10:45 Fr. Pat Brennan No 6:30 pm on Dec 5, due to Advent Lessons and Carols at 5pm. JOHN ANGOTTI and his band... Thursday, Dec 16, 7pm St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church Tickets $10 (children are FRE!) Special guests Gary Daigle, Rory Cooney, Tess Donohoo and more! Come and celebrate the sounds of the season Advent Taizé Prayer Come to pray and reflect on the wonder and mystery of the Advent Season Mon, Nov 29 7:30-8:30 p.m. St. Thomas Lighthouse This evening of prayer will include Taizé music, scripture and candle-lighting rituals. Come begin the Advent Season with this unique style of peace-filled, meditative prayer. Nov 28, 2010 Page 4

5 Pray For Our Parish 1st Sunday in Advent Christ Jesus, Come now and be light for our eyes. Come and breathe your Spirit Deep within us And help us now To sing your song of Good News. We hold your presence close to us, For we are your people. We call out to you To lead us, To guide us, To become your words, your hands, and your heart to the world. Amen Mass Intentions Monday, November 29, :30 Joseph M. Piekarczyk, by Ann Leo Sochacki, by The Larson Family Tuesday, November 30, :30 Margaret Radek, by Fr. Joel Fortier Jeanne Rentmeester, by Jim & Ann Rioux Wednesday, December 1, :30 Rosemary Casey, by Audrey & Dan Steven Schostok, by Audrey & Dan Thursday, December 2, :30 Nellie Cicenas, by Joan Mravca Dorothy Hendrix, by Rose & Len Bertolini Friday, December 3, :30 Mary Burge, by Paul & Marion Jacques Saturday, December 4, :30 John Hovancik, by Vicki & Roger Parrish Eleanor Kursch, by Tom & Katie Kerestes Sunday, December 5, :30 Deceased Members of 50+ Holding Si Dionne, by Kathy Farrell 9:00 For the People of St. Thomas 10:45 Anthony Rizzi, by Family Lew Hubbard, by Richard & Kathleen Bauer for the sick Ruth Harrison, wife of Pat Adam McEntire, son of Eileen & Greg Harold Throckmorton, father of Angie Tuttle Bob Patten, husband of Sherry David English, nephew of Perry & Sue Grove John Leonard, friend of Chuck & Sue Lane Jun Castillejos, friend of Daisy Cruz Pat Ukonga & Eve Otaigbe, friend of Esther Tongo Virgina Rizzo for the deceased Jacob Storey, child of Natalie & Kurtis, brother of Zack & Alex Vito Sacco, father of Julie Sacco-McCormick Joseph Roth, former husband of Joyce Wehrli Rev. John Knoernschild, friend of Helen & Tim Swanson Betty Lou Kammes, aunt of Kathy Nagel John Naber, father of Martha Margaret Eenigenburg, mother of Nancy O Reilly Edward Michaels, father of Kathy Fortuna Today s Readings First Reading All the peoples shall stream toward the LORD S house (Isaiah 2:1-5). Psalm Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord (Psalm 122). Second Reading It is the hour to cast off the dark and clothe ourselves in the light (Romans 13:11-14). Gospel Stay awake! Be prepared! The Son of Man will come when you least expect (Matthew 24:37-44). Readings for the Week Mon: Is 4:2-6; Mt 8:5-11 Tues: Rom 10:9-18; Mt 4:18-22 Wed: Is 25:6-10a; Mt 15:29-37 Thurs: Is 26:1-6; Mt 7:21, Fri: Is 29:17-24; Mt 9:27-31 Sat: Is 30:19-21, 23-26; Mt 9:35 10:1, 5a, 6-8 Sun: Is 11:1-10; Ps 72; Rom 15:4-9; Mt 3:1-12 Page 5 Nov 28, 2010

6 Faith and Spiritual Formation Commission Save These Dates and Save Your Sanity this Advent/Christmas Season! Overwhelmed by your holiday to-do list? Give your self some breathing space by contemplating the spiritual goodies available to you in January! Then write these down in that brand-new calendar to give yourself something to look forward to... Jan 6 Bible Study (9:15-11:15am OR 7:30-9pm) Jan 10 School of Prayer: Gazing into Icon Wisdom with Sr. Georgene Wilson,OSF (7:30-9pm) Jan 15 Wellspring Wellness Day: Spiritual Deepening in the Midst of Busy Lives with Gail Meyer, Counselor & Spiritual Director (9am-noon) Jan 19 ALPHA Winter Series begins (9:15 am OR 6:30pm) Jan 21 Sophia s Circle: Visioning Our Lives with JoAnn Wesley Hassler (6:30-9:30pm) Jan 24 Lehavree Healing/Companion Prayer with Bev Phelan & Joanne Shackelford Jan Men s Retreat, Carmelite Spiritual Center, Darien IL Soul Searchers Meet December 11 Soul Searchers will meet once a month to explore and discover truths in Edith Stein s The Science of the Cross: it is only by beginning with God that it is possible to understand what spirit is; however, that means that spirit is a mystery that constantly attracts us because it is the mystery of our own being. Born in 1891 to a German Jewish family, she received a doctorate in philosophy, supported women s issues and wrote several books. She converted to Catholicism in 1922 and entered the Carmelite Convent of Cologne in 1934 to become Sister Teresa Benedicta. This book, a tribute to St. John of the Cross, remained unfinished because the Gestapo arrested her in 1942 and transported her to Auschwitz where she was gassed to death. Stein was beatified in 1987 as a martyr. We will discuss chapters 7-8, pp The next meeting of Soul Searchers is Saturday, December 11 from 9:15 to 10:30am in the Rectory Basement. The text is available at the Carmelite Center in Darien and on the website: Deacon Will and Mary Maloney are group leaders. Come whenever your schedule allows and enjoy a thought provoking experience. All are welcome to attend this monthly discussion group. St. Thomas Men s 13th Annual Retreat Jan , 2011 Servant Kings: Transformed in God s Truth King energy unites, integrates and uplifts the challenges and opportunities of life. Come join your brothers in exploring and celebrating our identity as sons of God. C.A.R.E. CORNER Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. As children, we learned the words to this scripturally based prayer in honor of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Today is the fist Sunday of Advent, the season in which we prepare for Christmas. Mary plays a pivotal roll in the Christmas story. During the Advent and Christmas seasons, this column will focus on Mary and what our church teaches about her. Stay tuned... Nov 28, 2010 Page 6

7 You are invited to make a donation toward Christmas flowers in recognition of a loved one. The names of these individuals will be on a display board at the Christmas Masses. A suggested donation of $10 should be sent in with the attached order form, or you may fill out an order envelope in the church office. Orders must be received by Sunday, Dec I would like to make a contribution towards Christmas flowers. In Honor Of Please print By: Phone # Amount enclosed Please return this form or fill out an order envelope in the church office by Sunday, December 19. Page 7 Nov 28, 2010

8 Religious Education Help Needed for Liturgy of the Word with Children A leader is needed at the 10:45 mass to lead the pre-kindergarteners during Liturgy of the Word. In addition, an adult is needed at the 10:45 mass to help walk the children out and then back into Mass. Please contact Patti Dougherty in the Religious Education Office ext. 109 for more information. Pictures with Santa On Sunday, December 5 Santa will be visiting St. Thomas during Donut Sunday! Bring your camera or for a nominal fee have a picture taken by professional photographer and parishioner, Rick Zimmermann. Rick took pictures last year and they were beautiful! We hope you can stop by, visit with Santa and enjoy fellowship with other parishioners. Families: Take some time to discuss and reflect on the readings of the week. Nov 28 Question? of the Week... How do I prepare for Jesus coming? 5 th Grade Celebrates Advent This Advent we await the birth of Jesus, God s greatest gift to us. Fifth Grade Religious Education classes will meet in the St. Thomas Ministry Center during their regularly scheduled R.E. class times on Saturday, December 4, 8:30 to 9:45 a.m. or 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. and on Tuesday, December 7, 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. They will begin with Advent Prayer led by a Deacon and then they will be making and hanging the ornaments for the trees in the St. Thomas gym for the Christmas Eve 4:10 mass. All Saints 5 th graders are invited to help decorate these trees too by bringing handmade decorations to the Religious Education Office by the above dates. Together we will gift our parish by creating a beautiful environment to celebrate the gift of Jesus. 4 th Graders and Family Service Opportunity Deacon Chuck Lane will speak to St. Thomas 4th graders at Religious Education classes December 4/7 about his call to ministry with the Warrenville Youth Correctional Center. This correctional facility is for girls, age 11 to 18. The families of 4th graders (R.E. or All Saints) are invited to bake cookies for these girls and bring them to Church where they will be packaged for the Warrenville Youth Center s Christmas Party. Cookies must be dropped off at St. Thomas church by Noon on Wednesday, December 15. Companions on The Journey Eucharist nourishes us, Christ s Disciples, for The Journey to God. We are companions on that journey; together we are the Body and Blood of Christ. See the back hallway by the gym, which has many Religious Education Companions on The Journey. Throughout the year, we hope to add more of our Companions. Nov 28, 2010 Page 8

9 Teens With Character Blessed are those who are generous, because they feed the poor. Proverbs 22:9 Every day 18,000 children die from starvation. You can make a difference for those children by volunteering at Feed My Starving Children (FMSC. The St. Thomas Teens with Character group is sponsoring an upcoming session at FMSC in Aurora. Please join us for a FMSC packing session. Families are welcome, but teens can be dropped off and picked up at the specified times. Date: Tuesday, November 30 Time: 6:15 to 8:30 p.m. Location: FMSC, 555 Exchange Court, Aurora, IL Website: Special notes: Volunteers should wear closed-toed, comfortable shoes. Please stay home if you are sick. RSVPs: We have 90 SPOTS reserved for this particular session so they are COM- PLETELY dependant on our volunteers to pack for this time slot. RSVP as soon as possible to secure your spot. Please contact Brett Adams at badams@stapostle.org or at , x 117. Please specify the number of adults and children attending (children should be 10 or older to participate; 7 th grade and below should be accompanied by a parent). High School Youth Ministry News from Kevin Phew! It s been an action packed year so far and as Advent approaches I need to remind myself to take deep breaths and add sacred silence to my schedule. We just finished Sleep-Out Saturday and Harvest Sunday, and I am still moved by those experiences. A quote from Rachel Smith continues to echo in my mind. I m quoting from memory, but she said at a prayer service for Sleep Out Saturday Some of my friends and I were talking about our mission trip [to New Mexico] and about going back but I m realizing that it is just as important, and possibly more important, that I am just nicer to my family. Wow. What wisdom. It called to mind the Good Samaritan story. The priest and Levite, as I see it, are good people, dedicated to helping others, but they were so focused on where they were going that day, they didn t pay attention to the bleeding at their feet. Rachel Smith gets this. I wonder if I do? A few weeks ago, in Luke s Gospel we heard the person who is trustworthy in very small matters is also trustworthy in great ones. It is easy, I find, to focus on the great matters how many bags we collect at Harvest Sunday or the number of mission trips I have a year. However, is being present to one another our families, the cashier, the driver in front of us any less important and possibly even more important? Given Thanksgiving, are we similarly to be grateful for only the great matters or the small? As I watch my daughter light up and appreciate the mere sight of me entering her site, I am humbled. Do I, too, look around at God s creation with such wonder, excitement, joy, anticipation, and thankfulness? Am I as attentive as she is? As I prepare myself to enter the Advent season, waiting in anticipation for the Lord s coming, I challenge myself to not focus as much on the mountain-top experiences of my life and job. Taking Rachel Smith s insights, I am going to work to be more present to my wife, my daughter, and the stranger I meet at Wal-Mart. I tried it last week. In a rush to buy something at Wal-Mart for a retreat, I passed a gentlemen staring at his cart and a large box. I asked him if he needed help, we loaded it into his cart, and he said quite plainly, Thank you, I never expected someone to stop and help. I wonder how many others I ve just passed by, not even seeing them. Harvest Sunday Results: Holy cow! We collected over 4,200 bags of food!! Upcoming Dates: Dec 3-4, LIFE Retreat. We re packed! Over 36 signed up, pray for those on retreat here in the Ministry Center wing next weekend. Dec 5, Quest Night for Sophomores and Juniors (5pm). Parents, why not attend Lessons and Carols while your teen is at Quest? News: Mission trip applications are outside my office. I expect them to fill quickly, so get one now! Also, I need more help with Pancake breakfasts. We usually start setting up at 6:30am. Yikes! It s a great way to serve the community though. Order Your St. Thomas Christmas Cards Today! You can order Christmas Cards that have pictures of last year s beautiful Christmas decorations in our church. The photos were taken by parishioner, Rick Zimmermann and are displayed in the Gathering Area. 25 cards of one card costs $20 and 50 cards are $30. Checks are payable to St. Thomas the Apostle Church and please write Christmas card on the memo line. The order form should be returned to the Religious Education Office by Sunday, November 21. Questions may be directed to Patti Dougherty. Page 9 Nov 28, 2010

10 Service Commission Outreach & Social Justice OSJ Highlighted Advent Actions Each weekend through the end of Advent, a myriad of St. Thomas action opportunities will appear before you as you enter and leave Mass. And they will all be for good causes. But please remember, you aren t expected to do everything! If you are able, help where your heart is directing you and make a difference where you can. This year we d like to highlight an outreach justice opportunity and a social justice opportunity where the need is the greatest. St. Thomas Cares Outreach Justice Action St. Thomas Cares is our emergency outreach that provides food through the Care Pantry, as well as other services like rent and utilities, auto repair, and medical and prescription support. We also help with counseling costs in partnership with our Pastoral Care Office. Last year in addition to food, St. Thomas Cares distributed $48,000 for emergency needs, up 27% from the year before. Our client base increased 23%. The St. Thomas parishioners we helped increased 33%. Normally during Advent, we ask for gift cards for gas, food, and clothing. We have a good supply remaining from last year, so this year, instead of gift cards, we are asking you to consider a $25 donation (or whatever you can afford) that will be used in emergency situations, for parishioners and others in the local area. Checks can be made to St. Thomas OSJ with Cares on the memo line and placed in the collection basket or brought to the Main Office. Thank You!! Haiti Sponsor-a-Child Christmas Card Social Justice Action Did you realize that Sponsor-a-Child Christmas card is a social justice action? The proceeds help pay the salaries of quality teachers in Duchity. Educating children is affecting a systemic change in Duchity. Members of our first high school graduating class formed a young adult organization dedicated to making things better in the village. They have requested and received a grant from Save the Children for a number of computers that will be used by the students and others in the village. Our Sponsor-a-Child program is at about 60% of our goal to complete the school year for the three schools we support. Haiti Gift Cards (including a picture of a Duchity student) will be available throughout December. The front of the card is a Haitian Nativity scene. The inside indicates to the receiver of the card that a donation has been made in their name to sponsor education in Duchity, Haiti. The requested donation is $50, but whatever you can afford will be accepted with grateful thanks and blessings. Naperville Knights of Columbus Is it time to broaden your horizons? How many times in your life have you asked yourself, How can I live my faith and serve my Church, family and community better? There is a family oriented, faith-filled, organization that can help you find this outlet. The Knights of Columbus is just such an organization! The Naperville Knights of Columbus are holding an Open House informational meeting Tuesday, November 30 at 7:00pm at the Council Hall E. Ogden Avenue in Naperville and will last no longer than 45 minutes. You will see how a little time and effort can create large dividends for our community! This meeting will let you know what is available from the Knights of Columbus for you and your family, and will outline the merits of becoming a member. All Catholic men, 18 years and older, are encouraged to attend this amazing event. Questions? Call Eddie R. Collins, Membership Director Nov 28, 2010 Page 10

11 Social Justice Action DREAM ACT House of Representatives Vote Tentatively November 29 Through our Migration/Immigration Initiative, we have discussed the DREAM Act. Simply stated, the DREAM Act would allow undocumented students who were raised in the U.S. and have graduated from American high schools the chance to go to college, contribute to the nation's economy, and start on their path to citizenship. Under the DREAM Act, undocumented students who entered the U.S. before they were 16 and have lived here for at least five years could gain permanent legal status and eventually citizenship - if they attend college or join the military for at least two years and display good moral character. A vote in the House of Representatives is tentatively scheduled for Monday, November 29. If you have enough information on the DREAM Act and believe it is a positive social justice action, you can contact your US Representative and ask for his/her support. The US Conference of Catholic Bishops is urging passage of the DREAM Act. To send an to your Congressman, go to: You can call the Washington offices of your senators and representative via the Capitol switchboard Our Lady of Guadalupe Feast Day Sun, Dec 12 6:30 PM Mass Re-enactment of Mary s appearance to Don Diego...Authentic Aztec dancing in authentic Aztec costumes...dessert fiesta in Gathering Area. This is a St. Nicholas/St. Thomas spiritual and joyful holy day and holiday celebration with prayer, music, drama, dancing, and food! Did you know that Our Lady of Guadalupe is the patroness of the Americas? Do you know the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe and her appearances to Juan Diego? St. Nicholas, our partner parish in Aurora, will be joining St. Thomas for the Guadalupe celebration, sharing with us their rich culture. During the bi-lingual Mass, there will be a reenactment of Mary s appearances to Juan Diego. Their will be authentic Mexican dancing (in authentic Aztec costumes). After Mass, there will be a dessert fiesta (refreshments) and fellowship. December Care Pantry Food Collection Next Weekend Dec 4/5 Here are the items we especially need Pasta Sauce Cereal Mac-N-Cheese Caring is thinking with your heart! DECEMBER KIDSKARE Please ask if there is a chore you can do during the week-cleaning your room perhapsto earn a box of Cereal to bring up to the altar when you come to church Saturday or Sunday. Thank You! Cake Mix Tuna Jell-o As part of your offering, please bring your gift of food to the altar when the gifts of bread and wine are brought forward. If you can t bring food to Mass next weekend, bring it whenever convenient just leave it outside the Outreach Office or in the Gathering Area. Car Donations Special Christmas Gift Are you considering buying a new car for Christmas? Please consider donating your old car. The Blue Book value can be claimed as a deduction on your income tax. We have two families in need of reliable transportation: One to allow a single mother to work. One to allow a mother (husband & grown son disabled) to get other children to college classes and to get to store. The vehicle doesn t need to be in perfect condition. We will have the car inspected and any necessary repairs will be made by St. Thomas Cares. Page 11 Nov 28, 2010

12 Pastoral Care To all wise and curious parishioners: The Health Ministry volunteers are available after the 4:30 pm Saturday Mass and the 7:30, 9 and 10:45 Sunday Masses next weekend for Blood Pressure Screening and Education. The screening site is the Deacon s office, the first office left as you exit the Church (West Wing). All health conscious and curious individuals are welcome. Call your Parish Nurses at x 104 or 140 with questions, concerns, or to schedule another time. Parish Nurse Note Exercise: The Fountain of Youth The value of exercise for older adults has been proven time and again in countless research studies. In some cases, what we once thought to be a symptom of aging is turning out to be a symptom of disuse! The benefits of keeping active counter some of the losses that accompany aging: Exercise stimulates the brain. Getting more oxygen to the brain by exercising 30 minutes for three days each week reduces or delays the onset of Alzheimer s. Exercise improves your mood. Many seniors suffer from depression. Walking, aerobic exercise, strength training all blunt the symptoms of the blues. Exercise combats chronic diseases. It manages (or prevents) high blood pressure, boosts good cholesterol, lowers triglycerides, and reduces plaque build-up in arteries. Regular physical activity can help you prevent type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, and some cancers. Exercise promotes a good night s sleep. Insomnia, another problem many older adults experience, can be reduced or eliminated and without drugs. Exercise is a wonderful way to make/keep/enjoy friends. Whether you pump iron in a park district class, walk around the mall, or improve your balance with tai chi; sharing the experience makes it fun. Connecting with others keeps us emotionally limber, too! Physical exercise can transform your life. And it s never too late to start! Talk with your health care provider to determine the best exercise plan for you. advocatehealth.com aarp.org/health/longevity walkingabout.com nia.nih.gov (National Institute of Aging) Nov 28, 2010 Page 12 Parish Nurse Note The Plus Side of Aging Up to age eighty (and often older), most people see aging having as many gains as losses. It is a gentle slope that allows them to live life for the most part as they wish. Yes, there are losses that accompany getting older. The body is less efficient and often weaker. Friends move away, and some die. Learning takes longer. On the plus side, launching children into adulthood and beginning retirement allow older adults to reclaim the freedom they put on hold decades ago. Still, aging is challenging. But there are choices, and reactions to the inevitable consequences of aging often predict happiness or discontent in old age. When independence is no longer a real option, physical aging generally leads to one of two routes: either resigned dependency or chosen inter-dependency. Emotionally, older adults may focus on their losses or on serving others. Socially, this is the time they can disconnect or they can grow closer to families, friends, and faith communities. Spiritually, older adults may find themselves gravitating either toward despair or toward hope. Many choose hope and see this as the time to explore the spiritual. Unfettered by their former busy lives, they experience a subtle, deepening faith. Stripped of the external obstacles, they naturally draw closer to God. Gratitude for the blessings of their lives and a heightened appreciation for the beauty of the moment lead many aging adults to a profound sense of joy and hope. Along with the loss, growing old provides a unique opportunity to become and grow in faith. Spiritual good health knows no age limit. Alone for the Holidays? Come to the Holiday for Soles (A gathering for divorced or widowed) Saturday, December 5, 4:15-9 pm Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Cass Ave, Westmont RSVP by November 28 at singlethroughloss.org For more information, call the Family Ministry Office at Beginning in St. Thomas: FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS. Hope for the caretakers/family members of loved ones afflicted with Mental Illness. Drop-in support meetings twice-monthly. Watch the bulletin and website for further details.

13 From the Bishop Soon, our diocese will conduct the annual collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious (RFR). As you know, this collection has been taking place for more than 20 years, and the generosity of Catholics has been unparalleled. It would be easy to assume that the need has diminished; it has not. The ongoing decrease in the number of religious in compensated ministry coupled with the ever-rising cost of care make it a struggle for religious communities to provide for elder members. Yet, the RFR makes a difference. This collection supports the day-to-day care of thousands of senior religious. It also offers funding to help religious institutes implement long-term retirement strategies that allow for both the care of older members and continued service to the People of God. Perhaps at some point whether at a parish, a Catholic school, or ministering in social outreach you have worked with a dedicated woman or man religious. A sister, brother, or religious order priest may have even contributed to your own vocation. In memory of this person and in thanksgiving for all that religious offer our Church and our world, I ask for your assistance. Consider inviting a religious or lay volunteer to speak about the needs of elderly religious, or make the appeal yourself. Please be sure to announce the collection during Mass. Above all, please join with me in praying for God s continued blessing on all women and men religious. St. Thomas the Apostle Music Makers Invite you to... Sunday, Dec 5 5:00 pm St. Thomas the Apostle Church Annual, seasonal prayer concert featuring our St. Thomas music groups, lectors, dancers, Admission to the concert is a non-perishable food item for the St. Thomas Food Pantry. Sincerely in Christ, +Bishop J. Peter Sartain A second collection will be taken at St. Thomas on December 11/12 for the Retirement Fund for Religious. Stewardship: It s a way of Life Advent invites us to do things to open our hearts more fully to the Lord. Be it setting aside extra time for prayer, doing works of charity or going to confession. These actions serve to make our hearts a welcoming home for Jesus, while also helping to ensure that we are prepared to stand before Jesus when our time comes. Being Good Stewards of the Kingdom of God prepares us, not only for Christmas, but for the future coming of Christ at the end of time. Page 13 Nov 28, 2010

14 Administration Commission Jobs Ministry Weekly Networking Meeting Friday mornings at 9:30 a.m. (after the 8:30 a.m. Liturgy) Gym DECEMBER KEYNOTE SPEAKER NIGHT PRESENTATION Wednesday, Dec 15, 7:00 p.m.: The Balancing Act - Being AND Doing presented by Deborah Leoni Deborah's presentation will support you in gaining clarity around the significance of who you are being in the world versus all that you are doing and how it affects what you are manifesting. Our society tends to place value on production, taking pride in multitasking, which is resulting in stress and disease, leaving one to feel out of balance and unable to achieve the life of their dreams. Everyone will benefit from this presentation as it will bring individual awareness around the choices you are making and how those choices are affecting yourself and everyone around you. You will leave this presentation with clarity, a sense of balance, hope and a heightened awareness of a bigger vision for your life. Bring your spouse as this will bring these benefits to both of you and is our way of gifting you during this holiday season! Deborah Leoni, owner of Insight Out Life Coaching, is a motivational speaker, life coach and meditation instructor. Her mission is to offer a safe space to explore truth, to discover and express one's authentic self, and to assist clients in taking dramatic actions to foster transformation to make a difference by creating the life of their dreams. NO MORE MEETINGS FOR THE REMAINDER OF NOVEMBER; NEXT MEETING FRIDAY, DEC 3. THE WEEK AHEAD Monday, Nov. 29 4:15 5:15 p.m. Youth Choir, Church 7:00 9:30 p.m. Coed Volleyball, Gym 7:00 9:00 p.m. Middle School R. E. Mass, Church 7:30 9:00 p.m. Taize Prayer, Lighthouse Tuesday, Nov. 30 4:30 5:45 p.m. R. E. Classes at Brookdale School 7:00 9:00 p.m. Adult Basketball, Gym 7:00 9:00 p.m. Baptism Class, Lighthouse 7:00 9:00 p.m. Voices of Faith, Church 7:00 9:00 p.m. Charismatic Prayer Group, Judea Wednesday, Dec. 1 7:00 9:00 p.m. Make Up Mtg. for 1st Eucharist Parents, Gathering Area 7:00 9:00 p.m. St. Vincent de Paul, Cana Thursday, Dec. 2 9:15 11:15 a.m. Spread the Word Bible Study, Emmaus & Galilee 4:15 5:30 p.m. Jammers, Church 6:00 7:15 p.m. Journey Praise, Church 7:30 8:30 p.m. Advent Reconciliation, Church 7:30 9:00 p.m. Spread the Word Bible Study, Senior Center Friday, Dec. 3 9:00 11:30 a.m. Bible Study, Rectory Basement 9:15am-12:00 p.m. Jobs Ministry, Gym 6:30 overnight Youth Life Retreat, Ministry Center Saturday, Dec. 4 12:00 am-8:00 p.m. Youth Life Retreat, Ministry Center 8:30-11:00 a.m. Ensemble Rehearsal, Church 9:00 10:30 a.m. Men s Saturday Sharing, Deacon s Office 8:30 11:45 a.m. 5th Grade Advent Activity, Gathering Area 10:15 11:15 a.m. Rainbows, Ministry Center 5:30 6:00 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening, Deacon s Office Sunday, Dec. 5 7:30am 12:30 p.m. Welcome & Donut Sunday, Gym 8:30am-1:00 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening, Deacon s Office 9:00am-11:45 a.m. Liturgy of the Word with Children, Ministry Center 10:15am-12:00 p.m. Choir Rehearsal, Lighthouse Fri, Dec 3, 9:30 am: Barbara Finney will present "Executive Etiquette Power". Find out what executive etiquette is, how to create lasting first impressions, and also work a room for maximum impact. Barbara is an etiquette consultant based in the Chicago area. Following a successful career as a business analyst and corporate trainer, she followed her true passion of providing etiquette and leadership programs that instill adults and children. Her focus is on giving and receiving respect, and knowing "what to do", a topic rarely covered, yet vital to everyone's success. Nov 28, 2010 Page 14 Thurs, Dec 9, 9:30 am: Larry New will present, "What's that Noise", a LinkedIn training session. This will be a high level demonstration of specific tools used in LinkedIn and networking do's and don'ts. Larry is a Senior Network Engineer who has worked for major companies in the area, including Amoco, BP, MCI, WorldCom, McDonalds, and most recently, the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Larry has led LinkedIn training sessions in the past and has always been both entertaining and highly informative. Don't miss this LinkedIn session.