Stewardship Opportunities

Transcription

1 Stewardship Opportunities

2 Mission Statement St. Raphael the Archangel Congregation, Oshkosh, Wisconsin, holds as its mission the continued ministry of Jesus, the Christ, as revealed to us in the Gospels, the Church, Tradition, Life Situations and all of Creation. We are called to respond to the needs of the family of God both locally and globally through good stewardship of the many talents and gifts within our members. We will encourage community and personal prayer to foster a dedication to life, love and faith, as the People of God. St. Raphael s Vision /Strategic Plan Goals Our vision is related to our patron saint. St. Raphael is the patron of travelers. We are travelers on our life s journey. We receive a Call to come, follow Me We answer the Call by opening the door We connect with other Travelers We learn more about our Faith so we can walk with Christ We live out our Call activation of the story Last Revision February 2014

3 Dear Parishioner of St. Raphael, You may have heard the Scripture passage that reads, As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God s varied Grace (1Pt 4:10). What is your gift, and how do you use it to serve others? Stewardship as a way of life invites you to become an active disciple at St. Raphael Catholic Church by sharing your gifts and talents. How can you discern where God is calling you to help build a compassionate, Christian parish community? This Stewardship booklet contains descriptions of events and opportunities, some of which may compel you to respond to God s call to use your talents or develop new ones. You may also choose events as a family unit that will engage the whole family and support building relationships while teaching by example. The New Evangelization focus for this Year of Faith calls for genuine hospitality, sacrifice, and prayer. This includes a new encounter with the Lord and a deeper solidarity with the poor. By sharing your energy while caring for others, you will be a joyful witness to the gift of faith in Christ. May the Holy Spirit urge you, after prayer and reflection, to respond by completing the volunteer sheet found in the center of this booklet. Please return the sheet either in the offertory basket or to the parish office. You can also submit the form electronically by visiting scrolling to the bottom of the page, and clicking Stewardship Form. Thanks to all who have given so generously of time and talent over the past year. St. Raphael is a spiritual community gathered to pray together, be active in our community, socialize in a positive environment, and assist those in need. Please continue to join us in living the Stewardship way of life. Many blessings, Fr. Doug LeCaptain Pastor

4 Table of Contents Church Information...1 Parish Leadership...2 Education Commission Pastoral Council Finance Council Stewardship Commission Human Concerns Commission Worship Commission Worship Ministries...3 Altar Server Plant and Flower Care Communion Minister Sacristan Greeter Usher Lector Votive Candle Care Linen Laundry Ministry Worship Environment Team Music Ministry Education and Formation in the Catholic Church...6 Adults Religious Education Becoming Catholic Youth Ministry Sacraments Human Concerns...11 Angel Tree Elizabeth Ministry Back to School Fair Father Carr s Place 2B Bella Medical Clinic Prison Reform Care Team Recently Unemployed or Underemployed (RU) Support Christ Child Society Rice Bowl Communion to the Homebound Sister Parish Ministry Dave Ramsey Financial University (FPU) Winnebago Mental Health Collection Day by Day Warming Shelter Parish Support Services...14 Building Maintenance Office Support (Mail Crew) Funeral Luncheons Outdoor Environment Team Holy Duster Sign Language Nursery Welcome/New Parishioners Information Communication and Technology...15 Multimedia and Liturgical Arts Team Technology Team Radio Mass Ministry Special Events and Social Ministries...16 An Evening in... Prayer Shawl Christmas Tree/Wreath Project Saint Vincent de Paul Society Fall Harvest Dinner Senior Social Events Fish Fry Serra Club Knights of Columbus Social Reception Ministry Ladies Christmas Luncheon Soup and Sermon Mardi Gras Stepping Stones/Bereavement Ministry Mission Trips Sunday Coffee and Donuts Prayer Chain YMCA Parish Night

5 St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church 830 S. Westhaven Drive Oshkosh, WI (920) raphael.org Weekends Saturday 5 p.m. Sunday 7:30 a.m. 9 a.m. (broadcast on WOSH AM 1490) 11 a.m. 5 p.m. (Sept.-May) Confession Saturday 4 p.m. Sunday 4:30 p.m. (or by appointment) Mass Schedule Weekdays Monday-Wednesday 8 a.m. at Franciscan Courts (across the street) Thursday & Friday 7:15 a.m. at St. Raphael Parish Leadership Pastor Associate Pastor Pastoral Associate Deacons Business Manager Trustees Coordinator of Music & Liturgy Fr. Doug LeCaptain Fr. Michael Warden Betty Schwandt Greg Grey, John Ingala Mark Lindekugel Josh Adrians, John Thiel Karen Dean Parish Staff Accounts Receivable Specialist Administrative Assistant Office Supervisor/Executive Secretary Facilities Management Coordinator Social Communications & IT Coordinator of Stewardship Coordinator Elementary School Youth Ministry Coordinator High School Youth Ministry Coordinator of Religious Education Religious Education Secretary Anne Glowcheski Jill Eaton Deb Ransbottom Mike Sheridan Sara Erickson Sr. Sylvia Egan Kelly Vidmar Tanya Hielke Jessie Adrians Ann Olig 1

6 2 Education Commission The Education Commission provides a forum where all of the various educational groups and ministries (public, parochial, and home school) can dialogue and collaborate to fulfill the faith formation goals of the parish and the Catholic Church. The group meets bi-monthly during the school year and actively seeks ways to support and promote Catholic education for all children, parents, and families. Members are chosen through a selection process held in the spring of the year. Finance Council The Council is comprised of members of the parish who meet monthly to provide expertise and consultation through financial analysis, planning, and policy development. The Finance Council works with parish leadership in the administration of parish assets in order to accomplish the vision and mission of St. Raphael Church. The Pastor appoints members to the Finance Council. Human Concerns Commission The Human Concerns Commission responds to the Christian call to serve others with compassion and dignity. It promotes Catholic social teaching by providing direct service to those in need and working for justice to address the root causes of these needs. Parish Leadership Pastoral Council The Parish Advisory Council assists in directing parish life though listening and responding to the Spirit of God, organizing lay participation and cooperation, sharing practical wisdom, and facilitating parish planning. A consensus model is used to make decisions or recommendations. The Pastoral Council meets monthly. Each member of the Council must be a baptized practicing Catholic, eighteen years of age or older, and a registered member of the parish. Members are chosen through a selection process held in the spring of each year. Stewardship Commission The Commission s role is to support, promote, and coordinate the many ministries of the parish. It seeks to engage and encourage all members of the parish to become active participants of this faith community through prayer, service, and sharing. The Stewardship Commission meets monthly from September through May. Members are chosen through a selection process held in the spring of the year. Worship Commission The Worship Commission assists the Pastor, Associate Pastor, the Liturgist, and volunteers by supporting the worship life of the parish and by fostering its growth. This includes developing, coordinating, promoting, and evaluating all the activities by which the parish offers its members opportunities for liturgical and spiritual growth as individuals and as a parish community. The Worship Commission meets monthly form September through May. Members are chosen through a selection process held in the spring.

7 Worship Ministries Altar Server Altar servers assist the priest and other ministers by carrying or holding books, incense, and candles in processions or at the altar or ambo. Boys and girls who desire to be trained as servers must be at least 10 years of age. Adults are welcome to serve at holy day Masses and liturgies of Holy Week. Adults also may assist for funeral Masses. A 1-hour training session is required for all these ministries. Time Commitment: At your discretion Communion Minister Communion Ministers assist the priest at Mass by serving the consecrated bread and wine. Many Communion Ministers volunteer to bring communion to parishioners who are homebound, in nursing homes, or in the hospital. If you desire to become a part of these ministries you must be confirmed and attend a 1-hour training session. Time Commitment: At your discretion Contact: Jill Eaton Greeter If you like to meet parishioners, become a part of the ministry of hospitality. A greeter welcomes parishioners coming for church services, social events, and prayer. Providing information and assistance regarding locations in the facility and events of the day are services of this ministry. Families are encouraged to be greeters together. A training session is provided. Time Commitment: At your discretion Contact: Karen Dean Lector Proclaiming the readings from sacred scripture and reading the General Intercessions at Mass is a privilege. Opportunities to lector include Sunday and daily Eucharist, on holy days, for prayer services, and for devotions. A two-hour formation session is required for this ministry. Time Commitment: At your discretion Contact: Karen Dean Linen Laundry Ministry If you are interested in assisting with providing a supply of clean linens and towels for weekend and daily liturgies you may want to volunteer for this ministry. Laundering altar cloths and taking vestments for dry-cleaning are necessary services of this ministry. Volunteers must be able to pick up laundry on Monday and return it before Saturday afternoon. Instruction guidelines will be shared. Time Commitment: Sign up for serving on a monthly rotation schedule Contact: Terry Glasnapp Music Ministry There are many opportunities for parishioners to participate in the music ministry. Singers, cantors, accompanists, and instrumentalists invite, lead, and facilitate full participation of the assembly during the sung liturgy. Adult Choir The Adult Choir strives to empower the assembly to be full, conscious, and active participants. The choir ministers sing for the 9 a.m. Mass on the first and third Sundays of each month from September through Pentecost, and for special services throughout the year. Time Commitment: Attend rehearsals on Thursdays at 7 p.m. Contact: Karen Dean

8 Cantors/Accompanists/Instrumentalists Anyone with an accomplished musical ability and familiarity with the Order of Mass is encouraged to explore this ministry. These ministers provide instrumental and vocal support for the assembly. Time Commitment: Attend practices and volunteer as needed Contact: Karen Dean Plant and Flower Care A team of volunteers waters, fertilizes, and prunes the live green plants and flowers in the various areas of the facility. Volunteers are placed on a rotating schedule. Instruction is given through job shadowing and written guidelines. Families are welcome to join in this ministry. Time Commitment: Sign up on rotating schedule Contact: Judy Twohig Sacristan The call to be a sacristan requires people who are committed and reliable. Sacristans prepare the worship space, ministers, and materials for the celebration of the Sunday, holy day, or special weekday Eucharist and other celebrations of sacraments. They provide leadership and support for the other liturgical ministers. Sacristans must also be Communion Ministers, and must complete preparation through an apprenticeship. Time Commitment: Apprenticeship, sign up as you feel called Contact: Terry Glasnapp Usher Ushers are called to assist in creating a friendly atmosphere of welcome for the celebration of Sunday and holy day Masses. This ministry of hospitality helps people find seating as they gather, ushers members to Men s Choir The Men s Choir is a choral ensemble that provides music at the 9 a.m. Mass on the second Sunday of each month, and other scheduled times from September through May. Men who are of high school age or older and are interested in singing both traditional and contemporary two, three, and four-part selections are encouraged to join. Time Commitment: Attend rehearsals every Thursday at 7 p.m. Contact: Ann Olig or Ron Swanson

9 Communion, takes up the collection, and secures the offertory baskets. You and your family may want to be part of this important welcoming ministry. A training session is provided. Time Commitment: Sign up as you feel called Contact: Dave Kersztyen Votive Candle Care Ministers on this team care for the votive candles in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. Volunteers check the candles several times during the week, remove and replace spent candles with new ones, and clean the glass containers. A weekly rotation schedule is utilized. Families are welcome to share in this ministry. Time Commitment: Available on a weekly rotation Contact: Pat Krohn Worship Environment Team Enriching liturgies through supporting symbolic and non-verbal components of liturgy and worship is integral to this ministry. The team plans and executes changes to the worship environment throughout the year. Members of this team should have an awareness and sensitivity to the roles of sight and color, touch and texture, sound, and smell in the worship experience. Talents such as skill and interest in flowers and plants, fabrics, sewing, bannermaking, carpentry, etc. are very useful. The team meets once a month for planning and as necessary for work sessions. Time Commitment: Monthly meetings, assisting with decorating Contact: Kathy Martyna

10 Education and Formation in the Catholic Church Adults Adult Bible Study Participants will learn to apply biblical principles to their lives and explore the relevance of the Bible in today s world. There is an opportunity to grow in faith and love of the Church and come to a better understanding of the Church doctrines. Classes are held Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. Time Commitment: 2-hour classes Contact: Sandy Putman Little Rock Scripture Study This series is usually available Thursday evenings 6-7:30 p.m. Each series (7-11 weeks) includes Bible study, a short video presentation, and discussion. Cost of material varies. Announcements of the series will be found in the Sunday bulletin. Time Commitment: 90-minute classes Esto Vir Men s Ministry Esto Vir is a Catholic men s ministry that strives to develop resources and activities to support Catholic men by developing men s conferences, fellowship opportunities, prayer activities, and a parish-based men s group. The goal is to help encourage, embolden, and empower men to deepen their commitment to Jesus Christ, their families, their communities, and the Catholic Church and its bishop and priests. Time Commitment: Attending monthly Saturday morning meetings Contact: Deacon John Ingala Spiritual Direction If you would like to grow in your spiritual life, individualize your prayer practices, and deal with obstacles to a vibrant spiritual life, Sister Anne Marie Lom, a certified spiritual director, is available for individual appointments. She also offers retreats throughout the year. Time Commitment: Individualized meetings Contact: Sister Anne Marie, OSF for appointment /annemarie.lom@gmail.com Small Christian Communities (SCC) While being a part of our Catholic Church is special in itself, it is at times difficult to connect to Catholic neighbors on a more personal level. Small Christian Communities can offer opportunities to create personal relationships with others, mutual support and prayer, discussion of Catholic and Christian writings, freedom to share feelings, thoughts, and experiences with like-minded people, and the chance to collectively help one another live authentic Catholic lifestyles. Groups of 5-25 parishioners meet in homes monthly or bi-monthly to connect to Christian life outside of weekly Mass. Our diversity offers deeper and richer experiences that help us to see our faith and world through different eyes. Time Commitment: Monthly or bi-weekly gatherings Contact: Bob and Carol Staszkiewicz Rosary You are invited to join a prayer group in St. Martin s Chapel to pray the rosary after the 7:15 a.m. Mass Thursday and Friday mornings. 6

11 OshYA (Oshkosh Young Adults) Oshkosh Young Adults is a Catholic outreach for young adults in their 20s and 30s. Whether you are single or married, male or female, we hope to provide an outlet for you to meet, serve, share, and grow in your relationships and in your faith. You can receive information about our events by visiting Contact: Via at OshkoshYA@gmail.com Becoming Catholic The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) or Children (CIC) is the process through which adults or children become fully initiated into the Catholic Church. It involves weekly gatherings in which the participants learn Catholic doctrine, study the Gospels, and share faith experiences. There are two ways to be involved in the ministry. Sponsor (Adult process only) Choose to walk with a candidate by becoming a sponsor. Time Commitment: Monday evenings for 8 months, attendance at some specific Masses September-Easter Assistant Teacher in CIC The assistant teaches a prepared lesson for students during student class sessions and assists the coordinator during family classes. Time Commitment: Classes run October- Easter Contact: Judy Mayo Sacraments Infant Baptism St. Raphael offers group sessions to prepare parents for the Baptism ceremony and for leading their children in a life of faith. The parish offers two types of sessions for parents. The first is a basic introduction and catechesis (education) on the sacrament for first time parents. The second, for parents who have already participated in the basic session with a previous child, discusses Christian parenting, with an emphasis on helping parents raise children in the Catholic faith. Contact: Deacon Greg Grey First Reconciliation Children seeking to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time begin the preparation process in September of 2nd grade and receive the sacrament in December. Children need to be enrolled in the elementary religious education program or attend a Catholic school. Successful completion of 1st grade formation is required. 7

12 Older children or adults who have not received the sacrament of Reconciliation are welcome to enter into the formation process in a customized format. Contact: Coordinator of Youth Faith Formation First Communion (Eucharist) Children seeking to receive the sacrament of Holy Eucharist begin the preparation process in January of 2nd grade and receive the sacrament in the spring. Children need to be enrolled in the elementary religious education program or attend a Catholic school. Successful completion of 1st grade formation and the reception of First Reconciliation is required. Older children or adults who have not received the sacrament of Holy Eucharist are welcome to enter into the formation process in a customized format. Contact: Coordinator of Youth Faith Formation Confirmation Students receive the sacrament of Confirmation in their junior or senior year of high school. Classes begin in September and end in spring, when the bishop is typically available to confer the sacrament. Students need to have received the sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation, and Eucharist, and must have completed high school faith formation classes prior to being confirmed. Special sessions are held during the year for adults who have not received the sacrament of Confirmation. Contact: Associate Pastor Marriage We are honored to walk this journey with couples that have made a life-long commitment to each other. Couples are asked to begin this journey by contacting the parish office as soon as possible to set dates and times for their marriage. During their engagement, couples will meet periodically with a trained sponsor couple to discuss some of the challenges and blessings of being married, and how to grow as a couple in love with each other and Jesus Christ throughout their marriage. Attendance at a daylong conference with other engaged couples is also a part of the formation process. FOCCUS Couples Husbands and wives who have been married for at least 10 years are invited to mentor our newly engaged couples as they prepare for the sacrament of Marriage. Attendance at a training conference sponsored by the Diocese of Green Bay is required prior to becoming a FOCCUS Couple. Contact: Greg Fugar Wedding Assistants There are many details that go into making a wedding special. As a parish, we strive to alleviate any stress that couples may have on their wedding day so they can focus on growing a healthy and holy marriage. Wedding assistants volunteer their time to help families with wedding tasks and answer general questions while offering hospitality to wedding guests. 8

13 Religious Education The Religious Education Program provides faith instruction for grades 1-10 on Tuesday or Wednesday evenings. Classes for these age levels meet from September through April. Adults who enjoy working with children and young people are invited to participate. Catechist (teacher) All lesson plans and materials are provided along with coaching from a grade level coordinator. Attendance at orientation and three training sessions is required. Complimentary childcare is available for all catechists and substitute catechists. Catechists must be confirmed Catholics and must complete a background check and safe environment workshop. Time Commitment: Three hours per month from September through April Substitute Catechist Substitute catechists must be willing to teach on an as-needed basis and are encouraged, though not required, to attend three training sessions during the year. Program Assistant Program assistants collect attendance folders, contact parents of absent students, and assist catechists and coordinators with various clerical tasks. Hall Monitor Hall monitors must be available during class times to ensure students are where they need to be. They may also be called upon to monitor a class if a catechist needs to leave the classroom. Contact: Jessie Adrians Sunday School Children age 4 or 5 by September 1st participate in our Sunday School program. Children meet biweekly during the 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. liturgies from September to early May. Catechists are needed to help teach the children, similar to a catechist s role in the grade 1-8 program. Contact: Jessie Adrians Children s Liturgy of the Word All children in grades 1-4 are invited to attend a special time during the 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday liturgies when the readings are proclaimed to the children from the children s lectionary so they understand the scripture stories. There is no cost or registration necessary. Volunteers are needed to help supervise while the children are in the Chapel. Contact: Kelly Vidmar

14 Students with Special Needs Every effort is made by the Faith Formation staff to accommodate students with special learning needs within the context of the regular classes. However, some students require teacher with specialized training. The three parishes in the city of Oshkosh have partnered to provide additional services for these students. This effort will attempt to remain consistent with the model of accommodation made for the student within his/her public school and the student s IEP if there is one. Contact: Tom Mentele Vacation Bible School Each summer students in kindergarten-5th grade are invited to attend a week long camp that focuses on scripture passages and growing our relationship with Jesus. Volunteers are needed to assist as station leaders, small group leaders, kitchen helpers, environment team members, registration, and multimedia. Both adult and youth volunteers (grades 6-12) are needed to work directly with the children. Contact: Erin Bal Lourdes Academy St. Raphael partners with the other Catholic parishes in Oshkosh, Winneconne, and Omro to support the Lourdes Academy system for children and families seeking a quality Catholic education. Operating two elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school, the Lourdes Academy system actively seeks ways to partner with parents and families in preparing our children for success in life. Contact: Lourdes Academy Office Home School Association For parents and families who choose to home school their children, a special Catholic support ministry exists. This group consists of Catholic families throughout Oshkosh and meets the first Friday of each month for prayer and fellowship. Contact: Jessie Adrians Youth Ministry Middle School Youth Ministry Students in grades 6-8 have the opportunity to participate in several events and activities outside of school and religious education. All programs are open to students who attend public school, Catholic school, or are home schooled. Volunteers are needed to assist with the planning and organizing of the events, trips, and summer activities. Adults with special talents in education and experience working with middle school students also help the planning team as students learn to develop their leadership skills. Contact: Jessie Adrians High School Youth Ministry Be part of a growing experience as adults learn the value of leading young people closer to Jesus. Share your talents by helping youth live out their faith through social justice projects, community services, prayer & worship experiences, leadership development, summer mission, retreats and more! Young people need faith-filled adults to share their love of the Lord, and you can help with this exciting ministry. Time Commitment: At your discretion Contact: Tanya Hielke

15 Human Concerns and Outreach Angel Tree Are you interested in assisting children whose parents are in prison during the Christmas season? Organizing gifts for these children is a great way to help. During the first two weeks in December, an artificial tree is set in the gathering space. Paper angel ornaments with gift requests trim the tree. The returned gifts are sorted, packed, and distributed to the children. Time Commitment: Month of December, 2-4 hour blocks at a time Contact: Linda Kaufmann Back to School Fair Many children appreciate school supplies that are collected in the fall. St. Raphael collaborates with other community organizations and teachers in selecting needy children. A giving tree is set up in the gathering space with gift tags for supplies that parishioners purchase and return. You can be part of this caring ministry. Time Commitment: July/August Contact: Sue Panek Bella Medical Clinic This is a pregnancy support clinic. Become a vital part of this ministry by your volunteering and assisting with fundraising. Baby Bottles During a designated month, baby bottles are available in the gathering space for parishioner to take home and fill with coins, bills, checks, and prayers. The filled bottles are returned in 3-4 weeks and the funds are given to the clinic. Walk for Life Volunteers assist in placing sign-up sponsor sheets and helping on the morning of the run. Time Commitment: Varies with event Contact: Kelly Vidmar Care Team Care team members act as extended family or friends to people whose needs may be more than they can handle. The care team provides assistance such as shopping, visiting, transportation, meal preparation, and help with infants and children. This service is a great help to those who are in dire need. Training is provided. Time Commitment: 1-3 hours per week or as needed Christ Child Society The Oshkosh Chapter is a member of the National Christ Child Society. Members are actively involved in supporting various ministries in the Fox Cities community. Through fundraisers, the society provides clothing in layettes for needy newborns and a My Stuff bag filled with clothing, personal items, etc. for homeless children. Items are sent to various agencies and hospitals in the Fox Valley. Members may attend workshops to see what interests them most. Time Commitment: Attending a monthly workshop and meeting Contact: Carol Holt Communion to the Homebound It is a privilege to bring Holy Eucharist to people who are not be able to share in the Lord s banquet. Training is available. Holy Eucharist is brought to people in nursing homes, long-term care facilities, to those recovering from illness at home, and to those who need companionship and lack socialization. The schedule is made so volunteers 11

16 can fit this ministry into their daily routines. Time Commitment: According to volunteers availability Dave Ramsey Financial University (FPU) This program is nine weeks long and teaches God s ways of handling money. Through video teaching, class discussions, and interactive small group activities, PFU presents biblical practical steps to get from where you are to where you dream you could be. This plan will show you how to get rid of debt, manage your money, spend and save wisely, and much more. Programs are offered in spring and fall. Time Commitment: 9-week program Contact: Bob and Peggy Wilms Day by Day Warming Shelter The warming shelter operates mid-october to mid-april each year and is located on the Most Blessed Sacrament church campus on High Ave. It provides temporary overnight shelter to the homeless. The average number of guests is each evening. It serves adult men & women only. The shelter provides a warm bed, a hot homemade meal and a breakfast, showers, and basic needs to guests during the 6-month season. A variety of volunteer options are available. Please visit warmingshleter.com for more info. Contact: Volunteer Coordinator or dbdvolunteer@gmail.com Elizabeth Ministry You may feel called to become an active member of Elizabeth Ministry, a group that offers outreach to expectant mothers and their children. The mission is to cherish children, encourage families, and build communities. Peer mentoring and support are offered to mothers who are expecting through pregnancy or adoption, as well as to those experiencing infertility, miscarriage, and many other challenges of motherhood. Volunteers may offer support in the form of phone calls, cards, prayers, visits, s, and educational resources. Quarterly meetings are held. Time Commitment: At your discretion Contact: Parish Office, Father Carr s Place 2B Father Carr s Place 2B is a non-profit that serves the poor according to Matthew 25: It is a religious charitable organization founded in 1974 by Father Carr, a Catholic priest of the Diocese of Green Bay, and the youth of St. Peter s Church in Oshkosh. Meals This ministry solicits volunteers who are willing to prepare food for those in need. Approximately 100 meals are prepared at St. Raphael s kitchen the last Saturday of each month. Time Commitment: One Saturday morning per month for 2 hours Contact: Ryan Koch Food Pantry Volunteers are welcome to work at Fr. Carr s food pantry. Time Commitment: 8 a.m.-noon Friday mornings at your discretion Contact: Call to be put on the schedule Breakfast with Santa Come and help bring a Merry Christmas to children at breakfast with Santa on Christmas Eve morning. Help set up collection boxes at church on the first Sunday in December and bring donated gifts to Fr. Carr s on December 22. Time Commitment: Monitor boxes December

17 Prison Reform If you are interested in bringing about systemic change, the 11 x 15 Campaign for Safer and Healthier Communities might be the involvement for you. This campaign is an effort to provide up front treatment for non-violent offenders rather than prison. Time Commitment: At your discretion Contact: Sister Mary Barbieur Recently Unemployed or Underemployed (RU) Support This ministry invites people who are recently unemployed and underemployed to attend meetings for assistance in seeking employment. Meetings are held at St. Raphael Monday mornings from 8:30-10:30 a.m. in Good Samaritan Hall. The commitment is to Pray as though it all depends on God and work as though it all depends on us. The team includes an executive recruiter and a retired UW-Oshkosh jobs coach and placement specialist. All are welcome. Time Commitment: Following through in the program Contact: Dennis Kotloski Rice Bowl Participating in the Catholic Relief Services Lenten Rice Bowl collection fosters a sense of service for youth in our Religious Education program and their families. Volunteers distribute the bowls in classrooms and in the St. Raphael gathering space. The bowls are brought to the altar during Holy Week. Time Commitment: First week of Lent and Holy Week Contact: Parish Office Sister Parish Ministry Wanting to share and reach beyond our parish, St. Raphael has committed financial and prayer support to a sister parish assigned by the Glenmary Mission organization. Depending upon the needs of the mission, parish volunteers assist in projects such as collecting coats, baby care items, and car seats and working on construction projects. To stay informed about opportunities, read announcements in the bulletin and gathering space. Time Commitment: At your discretion Winnebago Mental Health Collection Our church cooperates with the Volunteer Services at Winnebago Mental Health Institute in providing a giving tree on which birthday and other occasion gift tags are hung. This ministry assists in set up and delivery of gifts to the Mental Health Institute. Time Commitment: 3-4 hours Contact: Mark Stockli

18 14 Parish Support Services Building Maintenance Volunteers with plumbing, electrical, and carpentry skills are needed. Depending on the project, others are welcome to join the group. Periodically there is a need for setups in the church, hall, and classrooms, especially for Christmas, Easter, holy days, and special events. Time Commitment: As needed Contact: Mike Sheridan Funeral Luncheons This ministry represents our church community in a very compassionate way. Members work as a team to drape tables, add flowers, serve beverages, and clean up. Your commitment will be very beneficial to our parish families who have lost a loved one. Time Commitment: You will be asked to serve as needed Contact: Arlene Robl Holy Duster The Holy Dusters have the privilege of cleaning our worship and gathering spaces, Good Samaritan Hall, and the library. Volunteers are scheduled to clean Monday through Saturday. Time Commitment: About one hour, depends on the area to be cleaned Contact: Cindy Mariucci Nursery Quality childcare for children ages 1-5 is offered on Sunday mornings at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Masses. During this time small children are introduced to our Catholic faith through Gospel stories, coloring sheets, and elementary prayers. If you enjoy working with small children, you are encouraged to volunteer your talents. Adult and teen volunteers are welcome. Training is offered. Time Commitment: As you are available Office Support The parish office staff periodically needs assistance with preparing communications to mail to parishioners. Mail Crew Volunteers are needed to prepare parish mailings. This is an opportunity to meet others while providing a valuable service. The projects take 2-4 hours on weekdays. Contact: Deb Ransbottom

19 Telephone Callers When information needs to be shared, the callers are given a script and may call from their homes. Calls are usually only needed once or twice a year. Contact: Deb Ransbottom Outdoor Environment Team If you enjoy caring for plants and flowers, you may want to volunteer for this ministry. The team cares for the flower garden in the courtyard, the planters at the front doors, the flag areas, and statue and church signage. Time Commitment: Depends on the climate conditions Contact: Cindy Meszaros Sign Language Interpreting is needed at Masses, religious education meetings, and special church events. Our hearing impaired parishioners welcome your assistance. Time Commitment: You choose occasional or regular signing opportunities Contact: Kelly Donnell Welcome/New Parishioners Information On the first weekend of the month this group provides information and answers questions from potential parishioners. During the coffee and donut serving in Good Samaritan Hall, people are welcome to discuss joining the parish. Time Commitment: Scheduled on occasional or regular basis Contact: Joan Vande Hei Communication and Technology Multimedia and Liturgical Arts Team In this ministry we project the music lyrics on the screens in church and oversee the sound mixing for weekend Masses. We are looking for dependable, technically-inclined individuals. (Can you play a DVD and turn on a computer? Great! You re technically-inclined!) No experience is necessary and training will be provided. Time Commitment: At least one Mass per month Contact: Sara Erickson Radio Mass Ministry On Sunday mornings we broadcast St. Raphael s 9 a.m. mass on WOSH AM If you have an interest in broadcasting or audio production, we encourage you to join the production team. If you do not have experience in this area, we are more than happy to train you. Time Commitment: At least one Mass per month Contact: Sara Erickson Technology Team If you have expertise in the areas listed below and are interested in lending your talents on an as-needed basis, this is the ministry for you! We will focus on preventative maintenance and special projects. You will be contacted when a project surfaces and we ll make sure you have an adequate amount of time and resources to complete every task you volunteer to assist with. You can specify which area(s) you prefer: infrastructure (wiring, maintaining switches, servers, and server backups), office (computer and printer installation, repair, and maintenance), and/or multimedia (planning the infrastructure of cameras, projectors, and sound system). Time Commitment: Varies by project Contact: Sara Erickson

20 An Evening in... An Evening in... is an upscale event for adults featuring fine dining and entertainment for families, friends, and/or a special date night during the cold winter. A new location is picked for the theme every year. Typically held in February or March, volunteers are needed to sell/collect tickets, work at the dinner, serve adult beverages, and other assorted tasks as needed. Contact: Parish Office Special Events and Social Ministries Christmas Tree/Wreath Project Getting an early start for the sales of Christmas trees and wreaths is important. This project involves the sale of approximately 300 trees and 100 wreaths. They are delivered on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and the sales begin six days later. Volunteers are needed on the day of delivery and for sale shifts during the event. Wreaths are decorated on the day they are delivered. Sales volunteers provide customers with tree care information, baling services if needed, and cash handling. Time Commitment: 2-hour shifts for sales, time varies with deliveries and set up Fall Harvest Dinner This one-day event features a meal for the entire family and the famous priest competition. Some years include a raffle as well. Please join the organizing committee to help plan this wonderful family event, or sign up as a volunteer to help on the day of the event. Time Commitment: At your discretion Fish Fry The Lenten Friday Night Fish Fry is an extremely successful social event and fundraiser. It is held for six Fridays. Hundreds of volunteers are needed to work in two-hour shifts. Chair/ Co-chairs and workers are needed for a variety of committees. Volunteers are needed for preparing food, cooking, serving, and cleaning up. Different groups and individuals volunteer to make desserts. Time Commitment: Varies with each committee and task 16

21 Knights of Columbus The St. Raphael Knights of Columbus, Council 11305, is a lay Catholic family fraternal service organization. One of the primary missions of the Knights is to share their blessings by providing financial and volunteer support for fundraising drives to aid our parish, Lourdes Academy, other charities, and the Oshkosh area community. The Tootsie Roll drive raises funds to help support programs for children who are mentally and/or physically challenged. Time Commitment: Varies with the event Contact: Tony Holt Ladies Christmas Luncheon If you are creative and would like to share your talents, join the ladies in the parish by decorating a table with a Christmas theme. You have the opportunity to display your own table linens, dishes, and tableware. The event involves three days: first day to set the tables, second day to let others view the beautiful decorations, and day three to serve the luncheon. The hostesses may invite seven ladies to sit at their tables. This is a great way to visit with friends and meet other parishioners. Time Commitment: Use your creativity before decorating, set table and enjoy the luncheon Contact: Pat Keliher or Sr. Florence Youngwirth Mardi Gras On the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, we have a celebration. The evening begins with a potluck supper and continues with family entertainment, concluding with the Burying of the Alleluia in preparation for the Lenten season. Volunteers assist with decorating, serving food, setting up, and cleaning up. Time Commitment: At your discretion Contact: Jessie Adrians Mission Trips A mission trip to an impoverished area to enable families to live in safe housing and improve their health may call upon you to share your skills. Mission trips may be either in the US or foreign lands. Approximately 20 volunteers are needed. You may make new friends and enjoy a memorable and rewarding experience in the service of others. Orientation meetings are held to become aware of the spiritual and cultural aspects of the people living in the mission area. Project-specific information will be discussed and there will be work available for all skill levels. Time Commitment: 8-10 days on the trip Contact: John and Linda Petek and Paul and Fran Treder Prayer Chain Prayer Chain members pray for parishioners who wish to be remembered in prayer. Volunteers make phone calls to others in this ministry to pass on requests for those who wish to have their intentions offered to God. This ministry is very helpful for people who are in need of God s help. Time Commitment: One meeting a year, volunteer as needed Prayer Shawl People in this ministry knit or crochet shawls for those who are in need of comfort or celebrating some joyous occasion. Members meet for one hour a month to knit or crochet, but most of the work is completed on their own time. Each person prays as she works on the shawl. Card stampers are welcome to help make cards that go to the recipient. Time Commitment: Meetings 3rd Monday of the month at 6 p.m. at Franciscan Courts Contact: Shirley Heisler Salvatorian Mission The mission warehouse, located in New Holstein, Wis., is used to collect items to be sent to the missions in 17

22 18 Tanzania, Guatemala, Honduras, and others countries. This ministry helps prepare supplies to be shipped overseas. Transportation is available leaving from the church, usually on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Volunteers are encouraged to participate whenever they are able. Time Commitment: Leave at 10 a.m. and return by 3 p.m. Contact: Carol McIlree Saint Vincent de Paul Society You are warmly invited to help this parish conference of volunteers serve others through charitable works, like promoting the monthly parish food collection for the Oshkosh Area Community Pantry, helping meet some financial needs of parishioners, and volunteering at the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store. The conference shares some funds with a conference twin, currently an orphanage in Peru. The conference meets after the 9 a.m. Mass on the second Sunday of each month. At the meeting there is spiritual development and business of the conference. Time Commitment: Monthly meeting, volunteer at your discretion Contact: Connie and Lyle Conrad Senior Social Events Seniors are invited to two social events during the year. There is a summer picnic and a Christmas dinner with entertainment. People are needed to plan and prepare for these events. This is a great opportunity to have fun, socialize and meet new people. Time Commitment: Committee meetings, set up and decorations Contact: Vic and Marsha Jammik , Gene Hetzel and Jo Anne Price Serra Club Oshkosh Serra is a part of the Serra International. This club provides opportunities to support Priesthood and Religious Life by prayer, programs, and fellowship. Serra has about 15 programs supporting religious vocations such as Christmas parties, summer picnics, birthday cards, student vocation calendars, providing the Compass in the classroom, and prayer programs. Time Commitment: Bi-weekly meetings Contact: Dan Lynch Social Reception Ministry If you like to meet people and welcome them at various functions such as First Reconciliation or First Eucharist celebrations, you may want to volunteer for this ministry. Chair/ Co-chair will order food and oversee the setup. Volunteers can assist with decorating, cooking, serving food, and/or cleaning up after the event.

23 Soup and Sermon Facilitating this noon-1 p.m. sermon series is an opportunity to meet people and serve the soup, bread, and beverages in Good Samaritan Hall. You may also enjoy the education series being presented. Setting tables and cleaning up is a part of the ministry. Time Commitment: Approximately 4 hours each Tuesday during Lent Contact: Fay Williquette or Gladys Szabo Stepping Stones/Bereavement Ministry If you would like to become a member of a support group ministering to widows, widowers and anyone who has lost a loved one, come join this group. A single yellow rose is taken to each funeral along with a card of support to the family. They gather once a month to share a meal and give support to one another. A monthly notice is printed in the Sunday bulletin notifying the families of the restaurant or gathering place. Gatherings usually take place the second Wednesday of the month. Time Commitment: Monthly gatherings Contact: Sheila Fink Sunday Coffee and Donuts Coffee and donuts are served in Good Samaritan Hall on the first Sunday of the month after Sunday morning Masses. This hospitality ministry invites the entire parish family to socialize as they share food and drink. This is a great way for a family to serve together as they assist in building community at the church. Time Commitment: Scheduled according to your availability Contact: Teresa Blank YMCA Parish Night During the spring months, a night is reserved at the 20th Avenue YMCA for families to gather for a variety of activities. Volunteers assist in planning the event and are needed to work with the YMCA staff in selecting activities for young children, pre-teens, teens and young adults. Parents and seniors/grandparents are also invited to participate. Time Commitment: Planning meetings, assisting at the event Contact: Tanya Hielke

24 What is 5 4 God? The symbol 5 4 God represents our pledge as members of the St. Raphael Catholic community to offer a minimum of five hours of service to our community and our parish each year. We volunteer our time because we were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Through our baptism, we understand that the Catholic way of life calls us to share what we have been given, so generously by God, with others. 830 S. Westhaven Dr. Oshkosh, WI raphael.org