2017 GUIDE BOOK & DIRECTORY

Transcription

1 Go and Make Disciples Parish Mission Statement 2017 GUIDE BOOK & DIRECTORY 200 East 6th Street Papillion, Nebraska

2 200 East 6th Street Papillion, Nebraska (402) Jesus Christ, after his death and resurrection, gave us clear directions about what we were to do until he returns: All power in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:18-20) We take that command seriously here at St. Columbkille and have chosen Go and Make Disciples as our parish mission statement. You will see it everywhere as a reminder to us of what we are to be doing all the time. Disciples of Jesus Christ are in a process of life-long formation, give of their lives to others in love and justice, worship God in all that they do, and announce the Good News to others. These four areas form our heart values as a parish. Everything we do can be placed under one of those areas. The four heart values are: 2

3 The parish is part of the mission of Jesus Christ within the Archdiocese of Omaha. To carry out our mission, we follow the structure of the Catholic Church that comes to us as divinely inspired by the Holy Spirit and ancient in its format. The Archbishop is our local shepherd who guides the parish and assigns a pastor and associate pastors to minister to the community. St. Columbkille Parish began in 1887 and continues to serve the Catholic Communities of Papillion and La Vista. Rev. Dave Reeson...Pastor ext dreeson@saintcolumbkille.org Rev. Pat Nields... Associate Pastor ext pnields@saintcolumbkille.org The parish has a strong history of diaconal ministry. Thirteen men presently are assigned to our parish to serve those who are poor, ill, outcast, or in need. They also teach, counsel and help organize parish ministries. Deacons assist the priests with the sacramental ministries of baptism and marriage. Permanent Deacons Deacon David Graef dagraef@archomaha.org Deacon Bill Hill bkhill72@centurylink.net Deacon Steve Jordan maj805saj@cox.net Deacon David Krueger dkrueger@archomaha.org Deacon Eldon Lauber eandjlauber@centurylink.net Deacon Frank Mascarello frank.mascarello@yahoo.com Deacon Jerry Overkamp rjoverkamp@archomaha.org Deacon Russ Perry russporto@gmail.com Deacon Bob Stier stier@cox.net Deacon Bud Tharp raphael11@cox.net Deacon Brian Thomas moose55@centurylink.net Deacon Duane Thome dthome@archomaha.org Deacon Eric Vande Berg ejvandeberg@archomaha.org To assist the pastor in carrying out his ministry among the faithful, there is a team of Lay Ecclesial Ministers who coordinate the day-to-day work of many of the parish s ministries. They serve the parish as paid professionals. The Pastoral Staff includes: Mrs. Judy Lauber... Parish Secretary jlauber@saintcolumbkille.org Fax Dr. Phil LaSala...Pastoral Services Director pjlasala@saintcolumbkille.org Mr. David Batter...Music and Liturgy Director dbatter@saintcolumbkille.org Deacon Bill Hill...Marriage Coordinator whhill@saintcolumbkille.org Vacant... Discipleship and Development Director Mrs. Jackie Buso...Bulletin Editor/Athletics jbuso@saintcolumbkille.org Mrs. Debbie Armentrout...Finance Director dkarmentrout@saintcolumbkille.org Mr. Bill Heese... Maintenance/Grounds Coordinator bheese@saintcolumbkille.org Mr. Jim Makey... St. Columbkille School Principal jmakey@saintcolumbkilleschool.org Mrs. Brandi Redburn...Assistant Principal bredburn@saintcolumbkilleschool.org Mrs. Carmen McCartney... School Secretary cmccartney@saintcolumbkilleschool.org Mrs. Heather Hixson...School Bookkeeper hhixson@saintcolumbkilleschool.org Mrs Julie Crnkovich... Sacred Heart Preschool Director jcrnkovich@saintcolumbkille.org Mrs. Lori Long...Religious Education Director llong@saintcolumbkille.org Mrs. Nicole Cook... Disciple Formation Coordinator ncook@saintcolumbkille.org Mrs. Judie O Connor...Relig. Formation Office Manager joconnor@saintcolumbille.org Sr. Jean Marie Faltus...SPIRITuality ALIVE Coordinator jfaltus754@cox.net 3

4 Expectations of Parishioners at St. Columbkille Church The mission of St. Columbkille Parish is to fulfill the command of Jesus Christ prior to His ascension into heaven, Go and make disciples. While that is the mission of the entire parish it is also the mission of each member of the parish. Living out the gospel of Jesus Christ transforms our own lives and moves the world closer to the Kingdom of God. The expectations listed below are a starting point for our parishioners to build and expand upon. Worship-fully, actively and vibrantly celebrating Christ among us Attend and participate in Mass every Sunday to reconnect with God in the Body of Christ Attend Holy Day Mass Receive the forgiveness of God through Reconciliation at least once a year Spend at least 10 to 15 minutes a day in private prayer or reading scripture Pray before meals giving thanks to God for gifts received Attend at least one other prayer opportunity, i.e., Stations of the Cross, Adoration, etc. Have a welcoming attitude toward others at Mass and in the parking lot Evangelization-inviting and inspiring all to become disciples Believe the teachings of the Church contained in the creed and the catechism Be an example to others of someone trying to live the teachings of Jesus Christ Share your faith with your children and form them to be disciples Once a week, talk about some aspect of faith with co-workers, neighbors or friends Commit a 5% tithe to assist with the work of the parish Meet one new member of the parish each year Charity and Justice-sharing our God-given gifts with others Ask for and receive help from others when in need Spend an average of one hour a week in service to parish or community Reflect on and pray about the service offered to others Once a year engage political leaders in concerns for justice Formation-embracing the life-long journey of spiritual growth Read one book a year to learn more about the Catholic faith Attend one formation event a year, i.e., Lenten Mission, Bible studies, SPIRITuality Alive Once a year, teach someone about some aspect of following Jesus Christ Offer service at least once a year to the school, religious education, youth or athletic program Utilize the parish school, religious education and youth programs to assist in the formation of family members Expectations in Worship Attend and participate in Mass every Sunday to reconnect with God in the Body of Christ Attend Holy Day Mass Receive the forgiveness of God through Reconciliation at least once a year Spend at least minutes a day in private prayer or reading scripture Pray before meals giving thanks to God for gifts received Attend at least one other prayer opportunity, i.e., Stations of the Cross, Adoration, etc. Have a welcoming attitude toward others at Mass and in the parking lot Liturgy Mass Schedule: Saturday Vigil 5:00 & 6:30 p.m. Sunday 7:30, 9:00, & 10:30 a.m. 12:00 & 5:00 p.m. Holy Days See the bulletin and website for scheduling Weekday Masses: Monday-Thursday 8:15 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. Friday 6:20 and 8:15 a.m. Saturday 8:15 a.m. (Communion Service) Sacrament of Reconciliation: Saturday 3:30-4:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday 5:00-5:20 p.m. Anytime by appointment at Parish Office 4

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6 Sacrament of Baptism (Infants) Infant baptisms are celebrated during the 9:00 a.m. or noon Mass on the third Sunday of the month. They are also celebrated on Saturday mornings and on Sunday afternoons following the noon Mass. All parents presenting their child to be baptized in the Catholic Church are expected to complete baptism preparation. St. Columbkille offers a two-part preparation program. The program provides parents with information on child development, parenting, marriage support, family spirituality, baptismal history, and theology. Godparents are encouraged to attend, if possible. For more information, please call the Parish Office at Sacrament of Marriage The Archdiocese requires six months preparation for all who are to be married. The Marriage Preparation Program has two sections: 1) individual sessions with a priest or deacon to discuss the results of the FOCCUS and 2) attendance at the Archdiocese of Omaha s marriage preparation education program. Marriage preparation is a gift that the Church offers to all couples as they begin to live out their sacramental vocation. Advance planning is needed to complete the various activities/ programs associated with marriage preparation. Contact Deacon Bill Hill at or whhill@saintcolumbkille.org to begin the process before setting a wedding date. Complete marriage preparation information is available on the parish website. Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick The Church offers this sacrament to all members who are seriously ill. This sacrament may be received more than once, but should not be received frequently. The sacrament is offered the second and fourth Sundays of the month during the noon Mass. HIPPA legislation does not permit hospitals to inform the Parish Office when parishioners have been admitted, so please contact the office personally or have a family member contact the office if you or someone you know would like to receive the sacrament or have a priest visit. Liturgical Ministries Except where noted, liturgical ministries are coordinated through the Liturgy and Music Office. For more information, please contact David Batter at , ext Children s Liturgy of the Word Children s Liturgy of the Word is held during the 9am and 10:30am Masses. Children in Kindergarten through fourth grade are called forward and leave the sanctuary to listen to the readings from the Children s Lectionary. Catechists are needed each Sunday of the month. To help, please contact Lori Long at or llong@saintcolumbkille.org. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) In the Archdiocese of Omaha, Catholic men and women who are high school juniors or older and have received the sacrament of Confirmation are eligible to serve as EMHCs. Candidates must be recommended by the Pastor, received formal archdiocesan instruction, and by mandated by the archbishop. This procedure takes place annually in late summer. The archbishop s mandation is only valid for service within the Archdiocese of Omaha. Those who have served in another diocese can make a special request to serve in this archdiocese. In St. Columbkille Parish, EMHCs serve at Masses, on holy days, and at other parish Eucharistic celebrations. They may also take Holy Communion to the sick and the homebound. For more information, please contact David Batter at , ext For scheduling, please contact Linda Gries at or gries8716@msn.com. Lectors In the Archdiocese of Omaha, Catholic women and men who are high school juniors or older and have received the sacrament of Confirmation are eligible to serve as Lectors. Candidates must be recommended by the Pastor, receive formal archdiocesan instruction, and be mandated by the archbishop. This procedure takes place annually in late summer. The archbishop s mandation is only valid within the Archdiocese of Omaha. Good reading skills, poise, and a strong voice are needed. Lectors should be people of prayer who enjoy reading and studying the Bible and other Christian writings. Typically, Lectors proclaim at Mass once each month. For more information, please contact David Batter at , ext For scheduling, please contact Linda Gries at or gries8716@msn.com. Servers Boys and girls in 4th grade through high school are eligible to serve at the altar, assisting at parish worship on Sundays, weekdays and Holy Days. Servers who attend public school will not be scheduled for weekday morning Masses during the school year. For more information, please contact Fr. Pat at ext For scheduling, please contact Linda Gries at or gries8716@msn.com. Adult altar servers minister at funeral liturgies, which usually take place mornings Monday through Saturday. For more information on adult altar servers, please contact Chuck Caskey at or cjcaskey@gmail.com. Ushers Men and women who are high school juniors and older are invited to serve as ushers. They welcome parishioners and guests each week, assist with seating, gather the offering, and distribute bulletins and worship aids. For more information, please contact David Batter at , ext

7 Hospitality Ministers Seeing the face of Christ in those they meet, Hospitality Ministers create a welcoming environment by greeting parishioners and visitors with a smile as they arrive for Mass. This ministry is open to individuals, couples, or families who are willing to be scheduled once or twice a month. Additional Ministers of Hospitality are always welcome. For more information, please contact David Batter at , ext Sacristans Sacristans are men and women who assist the priests with preparation activities for daily and weekend Masses. For more information, please contact David Batter at , ext For scheduling, please contact Linda Gries at or gries8716@msn.com. Art and Environment This committee plans, creates, designs, and implements the various physical elements in the sanctuary, including altar/ ambo coverings, flowers, plants, candles, stands, banners, and other liturgical elements. The committee meets throughout the year but is the busiest during the liturgical seasons of Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter. For more information, please contact Michelle at bagmdd@aol.com. Music Ministry Talented and dedicated musicians serve as leaders of musical prayer for a variety of liturgical situations, including Sunday Mass and school liturgies. For more information, please contact David Batter at , ext Cantors and Psalmists Soloists and small groups serve as cantors and psalmists, leading the gathered assembly in liturgical song. Keyboard and Guitar Accompanists and Instrumentalists Pianists, organists, and guitarists accompany the congregation, cantors, and psalmists in liturgical prayer throughout the year. Instruments are often combined to form ensembles. Grade School Ensembles Small vocal ensembles lead music at grade school liturgies. Adult Choir The adult choir rehearses 7:30 to 9:00 p.m, on Thursdays from September through May and regularly sings at the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass. The choir also provides musical leadership for Holy Days, the Holy Triduum, Christmas, and other major parish celebrations. The choir sings four-part literature and is open to anyone eighteen years of age or older with some previous choral experience. Small Ensembles Several ensembles have been created to include a variety of interests, abilities, and time commitments. These groups include the Select Choir, Wing and A Prayer, Singers for Grade School Assemblies and the Youth Ensemble for High School singers. Children s Choir Children s choir rehearses once a week and provides music ministry one Sunday a month October through April. Devotional Ministries Perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Since 1982, the Blessed Sacrament Reservation Chapel at St. Columbkille has been home to a program of continuous prayer. All parishioners are invited to join as an Adorer and to offer one hour each week in devotional prayer in the Presence of the Blessed Sacrament. In addition to spending an hour in prayer with God, this devotion may bring blessings to individuals, families, the parish, and those in need of prayers. To sign up for an hour, please contact Anthony Flott at or aflott@cox.net. Rosary Following 8:15 a.m. weekday Mass, and before the 5:00 p.m. Mass on Saturday and the 7:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday. Our Mother of Perpetual Help Devotion Tuesday after the 8:15 a.m. Mass. For more information, please contact Jamie Mundt at mundt2@cox.net or or Donna Simpson at Holy Angels Prayer Community For parishioners who seek to be involved in a weekly prayer group, the Holy Angel Prayer community offers an opportunity to gather together to praise, worship and adore the Lord God. The prayer group helps members share their lives with God in both their joys and sorrows; to grow closer to the Lord through Scripture and the teachings of the Church; and to reach out to each other in whatever ways the Lord directs. The group meets every Monday in the Children s Cry Room of the Church from 7:30-9:00 p.m. to praise, sing, listen, share, intercede, and learn. Men, women, children, young adults, families, and singles all God s people are welcome. For more information, please contact Jim or Janet Edwards at Prayer Line The Prayer Line prays for any individual or group that has a need. More than one hundred parishioners are praying daily as part of the Prayer Line. To add a petition or to join, please contact Cathy Beccard at or StColPrayerLine@cox.net; or you may contact the Parish Office at

8 Expectations in Evangelization Believe the teachings of the Church contained in the creed and the catechism Be an example to others of someone trying to live the teachings of Jesus Christ Share your faith with your children and form them to be disciples Once a week, talk about some aspect of faith with co-workers, neighbors or friends Commit a 5% tithe to assist with the work of the parish Meet one new member of the parish each year Evangelization and Fellowship Ministries Families in Christ This group brings families together to share the values of love for God, families, and others. It gathers socially once a month and also organizes outreach projects. For more information, please contact Joe and Jen Holzapfel at jmholzapfel@yahoo.com. Teams of Our Lady Teams of Our Lady is an international movement of Married Spirituality officially recognized by the Holy See. Teams of five-to-seven Christian couples meet monthly with a priest spiritual advisor to eat, pray and discuss topics reflecting faith and marriage. For more information, please contact Art and Cathy Beccard at or acbeccard@cox.net. Conversational Dinners Expand friendships, practice hospitality, and get to know members of the parish community! All are welcome to share a great meal and conversation at themed, large group gatherings with children, or at in-home dinners for eight. There is no pressure to attend, and parishioners come as their schedules permit. For more information, please contact Mindy Pelton at Military Outreach Ministry The St. Columbkille Military Outreach Ministry welcome and support active duty military families. The ministry is for men, women, and children, and strives to instill an immediate feeling of belonging, encourage parish involvement, and serve as a resource for military parishioners. It hosts monthly fellowship dinners and seeks to grow faith-based relationships between Catholic families with a shared military experience. For more information, please contact Amanda Costello at Amanda.joy.costello@gmail.com. Retiree s/senior s Happy Club A social gathering for the purpose of sharing ideas, past experiences, and wonderful memories. Members are free spirits with no dues, officers, or committees. The club meets on the first Monday of the month in the Steinhausen Center at 11:30 a.m. for a potluck luncheon and entertainment. For more information, please contact Armi at Just Older Youth (JOY) Parishioners who are retired and looking for a fun outing gather to play dominoes and cards, and bring a snack to share. The group meets on the fourth Friday of each month at 11:00 a.m. at the Steinhausen Center. For more information, please contact Joann Peterson at American Heritage Girls American Heritage Girls (AHG) is a Christ-centered character development ministry for girls ages AHG troops encourage girls to become servant leaders through participation in service projects for the Church and community. Badge work emphasizes life skills, and there are fun team-building outdoor adventures such as hiking and camping. Faith-filled leadership and biblical principles guide the girls to live their lives as Jesus taught. Join AHG s mission to build women of integrity through service to God, family, community, and country. For more information, please contact Andrea Powers at AHGOmaha@gmail.com. Girl Scouts In Girl Scouting, girls discover their values and who they are; connect with and inspire others; and take action on shared ideas to make the world a better place. All girls in the St. Columbkille Parish from Kindergarten through 12th grade are welcome to join a troop. Meeting locations, times and commitments vary according to age and specific groups. There are many activities that are available within the local Girl Scout council. Activities that girls can participate in within the parish are Vala s Pumpkin Patch night, Girl Scout Cookies sales, Girl Scout Sunday, a Stephen Center Dinner, and Leadership Awards. Leadership teams are needed to help form and run troops. For more information, visit StColumbkilleGirlScouts.weebly.com or contact Karen Pelchat at kpelchat@windstream.net or

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10 Boy Scouts The Scouting program at St. Columbkille includes Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts who attend St. Columbkille Catholic School and other area public and private schools; membership in St. Columbkille Parish is not required. Cub Scout Pack 359 includes boys from Kindergarten through 5th grade. The Pack includes all these grades, and generally meets monthly. Additionally, a Den usually has Scouts from one grade who meet 2-3 times a month. The Pack is dedicated to teaching young boys the importance of duty to God and Country, to do their best, and to have fun! For more information, please contact Rick Denne at garrick.denne@gmail.com or visit Boy Scout Troop 359 includes boys from 5th - 12th grade. The Troop includes all these grades, and generally meets weekly with a local campout one weekend per month. The boy-led, adult-guided Troop focuses on developing young men of good moral character. For more information, please contact Dave Wooten at tdjwooten@gmail.com or visit Athletics St. Columbkille offers a variety of athletic opportunities to youth of the parish. Intramural and competitive (interscholastic) teams are open to all registered parishioners. The parish currently offers soccer, intramural volleyball, competitive volleyball, intramural basketball, competitive basketball, track & field, Pre-K and K-baseball, competitive softball, and competitive baseball. Volleyball season is in the fall. Basketball is played late-fall through winter. Soccer seasons are in fall and spring. Track is in the spring. Softball and baseball are played spring through mid-summer. Parents are welcome to assist as coaches or volunteers. Teams play in parochial athletic leagues, and against local area recreational and select teams. Emphasis for coaches and players is on skill development, teamwork, good sportsmanship, academic achievement, and fun. Parish athletics reinforce strong Christian attitudes. Parishioners and coaches staff subcommittees that assist in directing and monitoring each sport. For more information on St. Columbkille Athletics, please visit contact Bill Heese at , or contact Jackie Buso at or jbuso@saintcolumbkille.org. Annual Evangelization and Fellowship Events Family Fun Festival The Family Fun Festival is held the third Sunday of September, and binds the parish and community together for a day of fun, food and fellowship. The festival consists of a carnival type midway, with games for toddlers, children and adults. The event includes a food concourse, live entertainment, trolley rides, and a baked goods sale. The festival concludes with a raffle and drawing for cash prizes. Parishioners are strongly encouraged to participate in the preparation and planning process. A Festival Leadership Committee plans for: games, facilities, entertainment, food, publicity, the raffle and workers. The greatest need for assistance is immediately prior to the festival and the day of the event. For more information, please contact the Discipleship and Development Director at ext Lenten Fish Fry The Fish Fry is held on all the Fridays during Lent except Good Friday, and its mission is to support the needs of parish religious education programs. The Fish Fry began in 1990, serves dinner for approximately 1,100 people each week, and involves hundreds of stewards. Annual income for the Fish Fry averages over $25,000. Funds from the Fish Fry have also been used to address a wide variety of parish needs, such as upgrades to the Social Hall, heating and cooling, a walk-in cooler, and a floor scrubbing machine. Proceeds have gone toward the Endowment Fund, new tables and chairs, and stained glass windows. Finally, the Fish Fry has funded the school s Cox cable bill and has made donations to Ceili and the St. Columbkille Education Trust Fund. For more information, please contact Don Hunt at or mhunt20298@gmail.com. Columb s Ceili Columb is the shortened form of St. Columbkille, who is our parish s patron saint. Ceili [pronounced with a hard C: Kay-Lee] is a Celtic word that refers to an all-inclusive festive party. Columb s Ceili is an annual event that invites all parishioners to celebrate together. It is a dinner where the Spirit of St. Columbkille awards are given. It is also a fundraising event with a silent auction, an oral auction, and a dance afterwards. As a signature event of the parish, it is a fun way to be part of the community and support its future. Ceili is typically scheduled for early March. For more information, please contact Chair@ColumbsCeili.org or visit 10

11 Expectations in Formation Read one book a year to learn more about the Catholic faith Attend one formation event a year, i.e., Lenten Mission, Bible studies, SPIRITuality Alive Once a year, teach someone about some aspect of following Jesus Christ Offer service at least once a year to the school, religious education, youth or athletic program Utilize the parish school, religious education and youth programs to assist in the formation of family members Growing in discipleship and learning to form our lives more like Jesus Christ is a life-long process. The parish provides opportunities for education and formation during each stage of development. Youth Formation Sacred Heart Preschool The goal of Sacred Heart Preschool is to create a warm, secure environment that encourages exploration and a love for learning. The staff works cooperatively with preschool families to meet the intellectual, emotional, social, physical and spiritual needs of the child. Sacred Heart Preschool is a traditional preschool program, with classes of 15 children that are staffed by a teacher and a teacher s aide. The program is licensed by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. For more information, please contact Julie Crnkovich at or jcrnkovich@saintcolumbkille.org. St. Columbkille Catholic School St. Columbkille Catholic School, a member of the National Catholic Education Association and nationally accredited through AdvancEd, has been providing a quality education to children for over 100 years. Founded in 1916, it exists to help students in Kindergarten through 8th grade grow in the Catholic faith by providing a caring and loving community atmosphere where Gospel principles are: modeled and taught daily by adults and other students, experienced in liturgy, and practiced by students in mission and service activities. Sacramental preparation is handled through the Religious Education Office. The mission of St. Columbkille Catholic School is to grow in spirit, mind, and body as Disciples of Christ. The school is an educational institution committed to using all available resources to help each child develop to his/her full potential by providing a variety of learning experiences. For more information or to register or schedule a school visit and tour, please call the School Office at St. Columbkille Religious Education In accordance with the guidelines of the National Catechetical Directory and the relationship of growth to human development, the Religious Formation program is set up to help with development of the total person. The purpose of catechesis is to call all people to a personal encounter with Jesus, form them into disciples, and help them make a permanent commitment to live as Jesus taught. This program serves as an aide to parents in their own lives and the lives of their children. Students gather weekly from September to May on Mondays from 5:00-6:15 p.m or Wednesdays from 5:45-7:00 p.m. The parish also offers an intense summer session, which runs for two weeks in June, as an alternative to the school year program. The sessions are for children in Kindergarten through 8th grade. The program is spiritually based, liturgically oriented, and Christ centered. For more information, please contact Lori Long, Religious Education Director, at or llong@saintcolumbkille.org. Vacation Bible School VBS is a week-long program held in the summer from 9:00 am-noon. Many students and adult volunteers are needed to help coordinate, plan and work this parish activity. Students in Kindergarten through 6th grade may attend, while older students in 7th grade and up can volunteer throughout the program. For more information, please contact Lori Long at or llong@saintcolumbkille.org. High School Ministry Teen Faith Youth Ministry is geared towards the high school youth of St. Columbkille Parish and the surrounding community. Various activities include social, spiritual, catechetical, and service opportunities, and are open to youth in 9th-12th grades. Teen Faith fosters the total personal and spiritual growth of young people at St. Columbkille while empowering them to participate in the mission of the Catholic faith community. For more information, please contact Nicole Cook at or ncook@saintcolumbkille.org. Youth Ministry Team Leaders Helping teens develop a relationship with Jesus and better understand Catholic Church teaching is no small task. As such, youth ministry relies on a team of parents and volunteers within the parish community to assist in catechesis and coordination of events. By offering their time, ideas, and talents, adults help enrich the youth programs in a very real and dynamic way. Chaperones and general help are also essential to the functioning of youth programs and provide good examples and relationships for young people. For more information on how to help teens in the parish become better disciples, please contact Nicole Cook at or ncook@saintcolumbkille.org. 11

12 Youth Sacramental Preparation Sacrament of Baptism (RCIC) Children over age seven in need of baptism participate in Rite of Christian Initiation of Children (RCIC) sessions offered by the Religious Formation Office. For more information, please contact Lori Long at or First Reconciliation Students in the second grade will prepare for and receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. This sacrament is a sign of God s love. It is a time to express sorrow to God for sins and to hear words of forgiveness that make each person whole again. Students must be baptized and have completed first grade religious formation. There are two mandatory meetings for parents to attend and Reconciliation Centers for their child and a parent. For more information, please contact Lori Long, Religious Education Director, at or llong@saintcolumbkille.org. First Communion Students in the second grade will prepare for and receive First Holy Communion. Students must have made their First Reconciliation and will attend the Saturday practice. There are two mandatory parent meetings: one with their child and one without. First Communion Masses will take place on one weekend at 2:00 and 4:30 pm. Families will be informed of their Mass times through the Religious Education Office. There is just enough space reserved for First Communicants and their parents, and other family members and guests are invited to sit elsewhere in the church. For more information, please contact Lori Long, Religious Education Director, at or llong@saintcolumbkille.org. Sacrament of Confirmation Confirmation places a person in full participation of the life of the Holy Spirit that began in Baptism and is continually nourished in the Eucharist. It enhances each individual with grace, insight, and understanding to live a life of faith more fully. This faith is not an individual effort. Parents, leaders, friends, and the parish community form the immediate faith environment in which one develops. Confirmation preparation is a two-year process that begins in seventh grade, and students receive the sacrament in eighth grade. For more information, please contact Lori Long at or llong@saintcolumbkille.org. Parishioners who are over the age of eighteen and would like to be confirmed should contact one of the parish priests. Adult Formation Understanding the Catholic faith is a lifelong pursuit, resulting in ongoing conversion of heart time and time again. St. Columbkille Parish offers several different programs and presentations, all aimed to help adults deepen their relationships with Jesus and improve their understanding of Catholic tradition. Ongoing formation for adults includes speakers, retreats, men s and women s programs, an annual Parish Mission, and more. Bible studies such as Seeking Truth, the Second Greatest Story Ever Told, and the Great Adventure Bible Study are also presented throughout the year in response to the interests of St. Columbkille parishioners. Please watch the bulletin for details, or contact Nicole Cook at or ncook@saintcolumbkille.org. RCIA The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a catechetical process offered to adults who are discerning whether or not to become part of the Catholic tradition. RCIA meets weekly beginning in the fall and going through mid-may. At the Easter Vigil, participants will have the option to be baptized or make a profession of faith in order to be in full communion with the Catholic Church. Parishioners are invited to welcome and support these future Catholics by serving as Sponsors. Please contact Nicole Cook at or ncook@saintcolumbkille.org. Come and See Come and See is a ten-week program designed to enhance understanding and answer questions about the Catholic Church and its teachings. Baptized Christians who have been practicing their faith or the Catholic faith, have a developed prayer life, and have a basic understanding of stewardship and discipleship may make a profession of faith and become members of the Catholic Church at the culmination of these ten weeks. To sign up, please call Nicole Cook in the Formation Office at Marriage Formation The Marriage Formation program runs on most Monday nights throughout the school year and are for all the People of God who are married or preparing for marriage and not yet engaged. The goal is to foster a deeper understanding of God s gift of marriage so that spouses can be the authentic images of His love in the world around them. More information can be found in the bulletin or by contacting Joe and Kristen Klapatch at klapatch@yahoo.com. Moms of Faith The mission of Moms of Faith is to welcome families to the community, assist parish programs, and provide an opportunity for mothers and families to gather for spiritual, community and social activities. All moms or those expecting or in the process of adoption are invited to join. Moms of Faith hosts play dates, girls night outs, weekly fellowship gatherings during the school year, and family events. The group strives to encourage members in their vocations, and to help them learn and grow in the Catholic faith. It also promotes service to God and others within the parish and community. For more information, please contact Melissa Nelson, Membership Coordinator, at StCMomsOfFaith@outlook.com or That Man is You! That Man is You! is a Catholic fellowship program that helps men to become better husbands, fathers and faithful followers of Christ. During a series of short weekly meetings, men learn from the teachings of the Church, current social and medical science, and the wisdom of the saints, and share their faith journeys, all to help them meet the challenges facing men today. The group meets at 6:00 a.m. on designated Thursdays in the Steinhausen Center, finishing by 7:00 a.m. For more information, please contact Duncan Murray at or duncanmurrayne@gmail.com. 12

13 Find Everything for Aging, Hillcrest Country Estates Continuing care retirement community (featuring the Grand Lodge and Rehab Cottage) Hwy 370 & 60th Street, Papillion (402) Hillcrest Shadow Lake Compassionate long-term care 1507 Gold Coast Road, Papillion (402) Hillcrest Health & Rehab Post-acute rehabilitation and long-term care 1702 Hillcrest Drive, Bellevue (402) Hillcrest Physical Therapy Outpatient physical, occupational, speech and aquatic therapy 1804 Hillcrest Drive., Bellevue (402) Hillcrest Mable Rose & The Club Assisted living, memory support & adult day services Hwy 370 & 48th Street, Bellevue (402) Enhancing Lives Hillcrest Home Care Skilled home health, palliative care and telehealth Serving 10 counties in NE and IA (402) Hillcrest Caring Companions In-home personal care (402) Hillcrest Hospice Care Compassionate end-of-life support Serving 7 counties in NE (402) Hillcrest Millard Post-acute rehabilitation 132nd and Westwood Lane, Omaha Providing the region s widest array of aging-related services. hillcresthealth.com HIKE REAL ESTATE RESIDENTIAL SALES PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Don & Val Bellino Lifetime St. Columbkille Parishioners Jerzes Sports Bar & Players Keno The best place to play keno, eat and watch your favorite sports! 501 Olson Drive (4 blocks west of Shadow Lake Towne Center) Papillion, NE Open Daily: 11:00am-2:00am Stopy by or call today! Visit for full menu and specials. A. Lee White-Hamilton Cell Fax Lee@HikeRealEstate.com Offi ce East Mission Avenue Bellevue, NE G C A J C goldcoastauto1@gmail.com 1310 G C R H 370 P, NE Parishioners 13

14 Natural Family Planning Natural Family Planning is the method of family planning fully approved by the Catholic Church. It teaches couples about their natural body for the purpose of planning or postponing a pregnancy. It has been shown to be 99% effective throughout a woman s reproductive life. Natural Family Planning is medically safe, morally acceptable, easy to learn, inexpensive, and it promotes intimacy and protects new life. For more information on NFP, please contact Lisa and Mike Brandon at or ILoveCocaCola22@hotmail.com. Financial Peace This life-changing class is taught by Dave Ramsey and his team on video, and helps participants achieve their financial goals by showing how to eliminate debt, save for the future, and give like never before. The class challenges and motivates parishioners to make a financial plan and change their family trees forever. For more information, please contact Joe and Jen Holzapfel at jmholzapfel@yahoo.com. Parish Library The Library is located in the Social Hall. Books are available in philosophy, psychology, spiritual life, sociology, sacraments, Church history, and religious education. The Library is available whenever the church is open. Expectations in Charity and Justice Ask for and receive help from others when in need Spend an average of one hour a week in service to parish or community Reflect on and pray about the service offered to others Once a year engage political leaders in concerns for justice Respect Life Group This group meets eight times a year to coordinate Pro-Life events in the parish and the participation of the parish in archdiocesan pro-life activities. For more information, please contact Mike and Lynn Jones at St. Vincent de Paul Society The St. Columbkille Conference of the St. Vincent de Paul Society is affiliated with the Omaha District Council, the national organization in St. Louis, MO and the international headquarters in Paris, France. The mission of the Society is to grow as disciples of Jesus by helping those in need, materially and spiritually. Members accomplish this through personal visits. Each active member visits at least one home a month and attends monthly meetings. The St. Columbkille Conference is able to pursue its work thanks to the generosity of parishioners, and every dollar contributed to the Society goes to help those who are in need. A St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store is located at 807 Tara Plaza in Papillion. Store hours are: Monday through Saturday: 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Sunday: Closed The store is manned by volunteers from our community; please consider volunteering. Donations are welcome at any time. For more information about the St. Vincent de Paul Society, please call the Parish Office at or watch the bulletin for meeting dates. Tri-City Food Pantry The Tri-City Food Pantry is located at 302 American Parkway in Papillion and supports people living in and around the tri-cities of Papillion, Ralston, and LaVista. Churches of the Tri-City Ministerial Association support the pantry. The pantry also receives support from clubs, organizations and individuals in the three-city area. Members of the parish volunteer to staff the pantry on a regular basis. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the food pantry director, Connie Shattuck, at For a referral to receive food from the pantry, contact Candace Edwards at canedwards@live. com or the Parish Office at ext For more information, please visit Food for Families Non-perishable food items are collected monthly and transported to shelters for distribution to needy families. For more information, please contact Roseann Moore at Mercy Garden Mercy Garden grows vegetables for the Tri-City Food Bank, and is located on an empty lot owned by St. Columbkille on 84th Street, just south of the church. This is the garden s second year, and helping hands are always needed to plant, weed, water and harvest. Donations for plants, mulch, and other materials are most welcome because this is a no budget operation. For more information, please contact Ginny Weston at or gweston@cox.net. 14

15 Thanksgiving Meals Food and funds are collected to provide and deliver a complete Thanksgiving Meal to needy families in the greater community. For more information, please contactbecky Grant at or Linda Gries at or gries8716@msn.com. Gift Giving Weekend St. Columbkille Parish joins with other area churches and organizations to help supply the Sarpy County Christmas Center. This is a one-day event where parents of families who qualify through Family Services can come to pick out a toy and an item of clothing for their children to open on Christmas morning. On the last two weekends of November, a Giving Tree is located in the Commons area filled with paper ornaments that have gift suggestions on them. Take ornaments and return unwrapped gifts to the church on a designated weekend in December. For more information, please contact Becky Grant at Transportation A network of parishioners provide transportation assistance to parish activities for those in need. People who would be willing to give rides to others at least once a month are needed. For more information, please contact Ruth Ann Graef at Ministries of Presence St. Columbkille deacons and lay people provide several ministries of presence for those who are in need. 1) Visitation Ministry: Ministers bring their presence and are Christ to those with a physical, emotional, or spiritual need such as the homebound, lonely, sick, disabled, or bereaved. Ministers also support caregivers, those who are separated or divorced, those who are struggling with faith issues, and those experiencing any kind of emotional, spiritual, or physical stress. To arrange for a visit or for more information, please contact Deacon Steve Jordan at or maj805saj@cox.net; or Deacon Bob Stier at or stier@cox.net. 2) Hospital Communion and Visitation: St. Columbkille Parish and St. Mary Parish in Bellevue provide Holy Communion and visitation daily to patients at Midlands Hospital. If you are interested in this important and rewarding ministry, please contact MaryAnn Mucia at or dmucia835@centurylink.net, or call the Parish Office at ) Nursing Home and Assisted Living Facility Rosary and Communion Ministry: Ministers visit on Tuesdays and Thursdays to pray with and provide Holy Communion to residents. For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact Deacon Bill Hill at or whhill@saintcolumbkille.org, or contact the Parish Office at Parish Nursing The Parish Nurses promote health awareness and provide blood pressure checks and other health screenings at parish events. They make home visits to help people understand their medications and doctor s orders upon returning home from the hospital. They also lead an exercise program, and provide health information in the bulletin. For more information, please contact Gretchen Reid at or barryreid@aol.com. Prayer Shawl Ministry This ministry meets on the second Thursday of the month to pray and to make prayer shawls for those who are in need. For more information, please contact Gretchen Reid at or barryreid@aol.com. Rosary Makers On Wednesday afternoons at 12:45 p.m., this group gathers to make Rosaries for those who need them. Last year, more than 3,000 Rosaries were given to the Columban Fathers to distribute in their missionary work. For more information, please contact JoAnne Bennet at Elizabeth Ministry The Elizabeth Ministry supports women in the joys, trials, and sorrows of childbearing. Its mission is to cherish children, encourage families, and build communities. Members are women from the faith community who are willing to share their experiences, presence, and stories in the hope of encouraging other women going through similar circumstances such as mothering twins, being an older first time mom, or experiencing pregnancy and infant loss. Others ways to help include: crocheting bibs for babies baptisms; providing meals to new moms, assisting the miscarriage support group that meets monthly, and helping with child care for the Moms of Faith Ministry. For more information, please contact Bridget Huggins at Domestic Abuse This ministry provides information and awareness on domestic abuse throughout the parish campus and community. For more information, please contact Mary Beth Jellen at or djellen1@yahoo.com. Mentoring at the Sarpy County Juvenile Center Youth at the Center often request an individual mentor to walk with them and provide a source of advice and care. Volunteers who can spare an hour or two a week could make one of these kids very happy. Release Ministries provides mentorship training. For more information, please contact Sister Jean Marie Faltus, SFCC at or jfaltus754@cox.net. Funeral Lunch Ministry This group provides hospitality for family and friends after funeral Masses or memorial services. Those who are willing to serve are put into a group to help provide food, set-up, serving, and clean-up. Groups rotate so the same people are not called every time. For more information, please contact Joann Peterson at or Sue Cummings at Bereavement Support Group The death of a loved one can be a devastating and lonely experience. There are many unanswered questions and changes in your reality. If you or someone you love have suffered a loss, you need not suffer alone. Since time began, people have come together to help one another in times of grief. St. Columbkille offers a twice yearly support group that is educational, spiritual, and non-judgmental. The group is peer driven, where all are on equal footing. For more information, please contact Mary Stuart at or memastuart@hotmail.com. 15

16 The Legion of Mary The object of the Legion of Mary is the glory of God through the holiness of its members developed by prayer and active cooperation in the work of Mary and the Church. Every active Legion member is required to carry out weekly apostolic work in the spirit of faith and in union with Mary, and to attend a weekly meeting. Men and women are members. Auxiliary Legion membership is open to priests, religious and lay people who wish to associate themselves with the Legion by undertaking a service of prayer in its name. For more information on becoming a member of the St. Columbkille Legion of Mary, please contact Cathy Peterson at or cpete1218@cox.net. SPIRITuality ALIVE SPIRITuality ALIVE includes faith-sharing groups of parishioners who meet six weeks in the fall and during Lent. As a result of these sessions, a group becomes YOUR faith sharing community celebrating your joys and sharing your sorrows. Each group is devoted to five purposes: prayer community building discipleship development ministry in the parish service to the larger community Each group reads and discusses a book, and makes applications to ongoing faith development. You are invited to join or start a group. New members or groups are always welcome! For more information, please contact Sister Jean Marie Faltus, SFCC, at or jfaltus754@cox.net. Fair Trade Team The Fair Trade Team works in conjunction with Catholic Relief Services and two fair trade companies, SERRV and Equal Exchange, to promote the sale of foods and crafts purchased at a fair price from farmers and artisans around the world. Each purchase made by parishioners: celebrates the human dignity of the farmers and artisans who grow or make the products demonstrates a special concern for the poor shows solidarity with our brothers and sisters in other countries contributes to a more just distribution of wealth The Fair Trade Team sponsors a fair trade sale the second Sunday of each month, excluding June and July. New members are always welcome! For more information, please contact Sister Jean Marie Faltus, SFCC, at or jfaltus754@cox.net. Creation Care Team The Creation Care Team works in conjunction with the Catholic Climate Covenant to bring care for creation to the center of parish community life. The team is devoted to: raising awareness about our responsibility to care for the earth and its resources offering parishioners opportunities to participate in campaigns to influence legislators to be conscientious about supporting laws affecting the earth and the environment educating the parish community about studies that demonstrate the depletion of resources and how this depletion affects all life, especially the lives of the poor worldwide involving parishioners in activities that help them evaluate their lifestyles and make changes to protect the earth and all life forms The Creation Care Team meets the third Thursday of each month. New members are welcome! For more information, please contact Sister Jean Marie Faltus, SFCC, at or jfaltus754@cox.net. Ixim Guatemalan Outreach The Ixim: Spirit of Solidarity project of the Archdiocese of Omaha strengthens our sister-diocese relationship with the Catholic Diocese of Huehuetenango, Guatemala. 25 parishioners from St. Columbkille have traveled to Guatemala with Ixim and every summer there is an opportunity for others to make this trip. If you are interested in forming a relationship with our brothers and sisters in Christ, in Huehuetenango, in strengthening the relationship between our school and our sister-school in Santa Eulalia, or in educating your fellow parishioners about the global church, please contact Mark Zimmer, Director of Ixim, at mjzimmer@archomaha.org, or parishioner Tracy Ortgies, at taortgies@cox.net. Parish and Community Service Organizations Knights of Columbus The Knights of Columbus are Catholic gentlemen committed to the exemplification of Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism, along with defending our priests, and promoting healthy families. St. Columbkille Parish has been served by Archbishop Bergan Council 6429 since Brother Knights work to fulfill the central mission of the Order: to serve the Church by following its teachings, support Brother Knights in their temporal and spiritual needs, act for the good of the country, and give aid to widows, orphans, the sick and the less fortunate. Through monthly breakfasts and other fund raisers, the Council provides financial and service support to our priests, school, and religious education. The Council also provides funds to youth and senior groups, along with many other community groups. The Knights support worthy causes on the local, state, and national levels such as the pro-life One Rose One Life campaign and Tootsie Roll sales that support the mentally handicapped. 16

17 THE COLUMBAN FATHERS RETREAT CENTER The Columban Fathers Retreat Center, located in the heart of Bellevue, is a facility designed to accommodate groups of 10 to 48 for overnight stays in a dorm-style setting. Main fl oor can seat up to 100 people for meetings and dining. Tours are available by appointment only, Monday-Friday 9:00a.m.-3:30p.m. THE COLUMBAN FATHERS 1902 Calhoun St St. Columbans, NE Phone (402) Parish Benefactors Protecting People, Property, and Wildlife Raccoon Mole Squirrel Bird Bat Skunk Woodchuck Mice Rat Opossum Snake Bees Wasps Etc. Humane Removal * Repair * Prevention Wildlife Biologists on Staff Call (402) The Cosgrave Company 8222 H St. (402) Religious Gifts Church Supplies Monday-Friday 9-5:30 Saturday 9-4 Tom and Kathy Koley NP Dodge Real Estate Judy Vacek, Parishioner Helping you to make the right decisions when buying or selling JudyVacek.com Penke Door & Window, Inc. Free Estimates 44 Years Experience Since 1973 Papillion, NE Call Randy Penke at (402) Runza Restaurants 202 N. Washington (402) Wayne Wilson - Manager St. Columbkille Parishioner 17

18 The Council meets the fourth Tuesday of each month in the Steinhausen Center and opens each meeting with a Rosary and a prayer to end abortion. Archbishop Bergan Council and the St. Joseph Council in Springfield combined to form a 4th Degree Assembly, St. Michael the Archangel 3606, in The Assembly meets quarterly, alternating between St. Columbkille and St. Joseph. The mission of the Assembly is to serve and support our veterans. For more information about the Knights of Columbus, including the Council or the 4th Degree Assembly, please contact Dale Sorge at dsorge@cox.net. Women s Guild The Women s Guild welcomes all ladies of the parish to participate in its activities. It meets on the third Tuesday of the month from September through May in the meeting room connected to the Parish Office at 7pm unless designated otherwise in the bulletin. There are no dues. The Guild is affiliated with the Archdiocesan Omaha Urban Council of Catholic Women. Service projects include funding and serving funeral luncheons to parish families at the death of their loved one. Other projects include cooking a meal to be served at the Stephen Center, helping fund parish Rosary Making and Shawl Ministry groups, providing snacks for the Midlands Hospital ICU basket, funding two scholarships for graduating 8th graders from St. Columbkille Catholic School or the Religious Formation class who will attend a Catholic high school, helping to fund the parish s Senior Happy Club, and purchasing various equipment needed in the Social Hall, Steinhausen Center, and church. The Women s Guild hosts receptions for new Deacons joining the parish, our beloved priests who are reassigned, and as requested by the Pastor. Fundraisers include the Lenten Fish Fry dessert table, the annual Cookie Walk in December, two or three bake sales, and donations from funeral luncheons. Please join the Women s Guild, which offers its members a sense of Christian community and hope to kindle friendships that will last a lifetime. For more information, please contact Dee Iske at or iskew@cox.net. C.A.R.E. The C.A.R.E. program (Cards Are Rewards for Education) is a parishioner-operated St. Columbkille Parish and school fundraiser. Gift cards are purchased by C.A.R.E. at a discount of between 2-20% and resold at face value. C.A.R.E. retains the discount as profit and returns 100% of money earned to St. Columbkille to fund various school and parish needs. Gift cards/certificates are available for over 100 local and national vendors including restaurants, groceries, and clothing and specialty stores. Gift cards/ certificates are also available for entertainment such as bowling, movie theaters, and music downloads. Purchase C.A.R.E cards after each weekend Mass in the church foyer, and send C.A.R.E. orders to school with students during the school year. There is no additional cost to you! If you re going there...use C.A.R.E. For more information, please contact Jackie Wozniak at jswozniak@hotmail.com or StCCareCards@gmail.com. Shepherds This ministry raises funds for parish youth programs by selling 4th of July fireworks. Volunteers are always needed to work the fireworks stand, and this is a great way to complete service hours. For more information or to volunteer, watch for summertime announcements in the bulletin or contact Michael Williams at or MikeWilliams1@cox.net. Grounds Committee Members tend to parish grounds to inspire an appreciation of the beauty of God s creation. Has made. This can be a time of prayerful service to the community. Gardeners may receive tasks to do on their own each week or gather with others on Thursday evenings during the summer. For more information, please contact Michelle at bagmdd@aol.com. Mowers may join a team that cuts the lawn around the parish campus once or twice per month. Families or adults aged 18 or older are welcome. For more information, pleases contact Scot Rainbolt at Volunteers work on other parish grounds projects as needed according to the season. For more information on the Grounds Committee, please contact the Parish Office at Building Committee Members use their skills in a wide variety of areas such as carpentry, electrical work, HVAC, roofing, and general labor to maintain and repair parish buildings. This important work contributes to God s greater glory by supporting facilities that are befitting of worship and parish ministries. For more information on the Building Committee, please contact the Parish Office at Home and School Association Parents of students attending St. Columbkille School help plan and support school activities throughout the year. For more information, please contact Susie Nelson at susiek0@hotmail.com. Money Counters A group of people gather on a weekly basis to count the money offered at the weekend liturgies. For more information, please contact Jim Edwards at

19 Councils and Commissions Each of the councils choose one member to serve a three-year term on the Pastoral Council. Councils and commissions work to support every organization in the parish. Pastoral Council The Pastoral Council is a representative body of the faithful whose focus is on the whole community the beliefs, hopes, joys, needs, sorrows, concerns, gifts and the pursuit of the mission of the Church. Membership comes from the other Councils and Commissions, and there are four at-large positions. Members serve staggered, three-year terms and attend monthly meetings. Current members are: Curtis Edwards, Ann Caskey, Dale Sorge, Dick Van Haute, Gina Harrison, Gretchen Reid, John Larsen, Karen Smith, Lynette Corbin, Fr. David Reeson, and Therrel Brown. The Pastoral Council is the coordinating and unifying structure of the parish community. Members gather the thoughts and ideas of the parish community and work together until a general agreement has been reached. Members then translate this consensus into parish policies and take action relative to the well-being of the parish. For more information, please contact Curtis Edwards at curtis906@gmail.com. Finance Council The Finance Council aids the Pastor in the administration of parish goods. The Council advises and assists the Pastor in the preparation of the annual budget, the creation and communication of periodic financial reports, and protection of parish temporal goods. The Finance Council is to reflect the broad-based ideas of the parish community, and acts as a consultative resource for the Pastor. For more information, please contact Karen Smith at ksmithneb@hotmail.com, or Debbie Armentrout at or dkarmentrout@saintcolumbkille.org. Discipleship Council In 2015 the Pastoral Council voted to change the name from Stewardship Council to Discipleship Council, recognizing that one of the roles of the disciple is to be a good steward. This builds on a parish-wide philosophy of stewardship that was formalized in Stewardship recognizes God as the giver of all good things. Stewards are so appreciative of God s generosity that they actively share a portion of their time with Him in prayer, their talent in service to others and their treasure with the parish and other charities. Members of the Council help individuals find ways to use their gifts in the parish. They also support ministries in accomplishing their mission. For more information, contact the Discipleship and Development Director at Liturgy Commission The Liturgy Commission consists of representation and leadership from each of the liturgical ministries, including priests, deacons, musicians, sacristans, ushers, servers, lectors, EMHCs, and Art and Environment. The full committee meets once a month to coordinate the liturgical worship of the parish community. One member serves as a liaison to the Pastoral Council. For more information, please contact David Batter at ext Outreach Commission The Outreach Commission consists of leaders from the Charity and Justice ministries. It meets every other month to coordinate their efforts. For more information, please contact Phil LaSala at ext School Advisory Council The St. Columbkille School Advisory Council is composed of members appointed by the Pastor. The Council strengthens the role of the school in the parish by advising school administration and the Pastor regarding long-range direction, policy and visibility. On these matters, the views of all parishioners, particularly parents and the staff, are not only welcomed but are encouraged. Those wishing to be on the agenda for meetings should contact the principal or the Council president for information on the required procedure. For more information, please contact Mr. Jim Makey, Principal, at or jmakey@saintcolumbkilleschool.org. Education Trust Board The St. Columbkille Educational Trust is an endowment that has been built through the generosity of many parishioners and supporters throughout the years. The purpose of the endowment is to enhance the faith formation ministries of St. Columbkille Parish including Religious Formation (formerly CCD), Adult Formation, Youth Ministry, Sacred Heart Preschool and St Columbkille Catholic School. The Educational Trust Board serves as the steward of the endowment funds. The Board serves to make contributions to the educational ministries of St. Columbkille that will have a long lasting and far reaching impact on those programs and their participants. Applications for grants from the Trust are accepted each August from the directors of the parish religious programs for the Board s review and approval. The Board is currently working to build the endowment in the Trust and to create a cash reserve that can be accessed in years of economic downturn when the need for assistance is the greatest. Parishioners who wish to contribute to the St. Columbkille Education Trust may contribute weekly using their parish envelopes, remember the Trust in their estate planning, and support parish activities that contribute to the Trust such as the Lenten Fish Fry. For more information, please contact John Larsen at john.larsen@marathonventuresinc.com. 19

20 Archdiocesan Services Chancery Office Catholic Schools Office Victim Outreach and Prevention Office Catholic Charities Catholic Voice Catholic Cemeteries Center for Family Life Formation Office of Evangelization and Catechesis St. Vincent de Paul Society Omaha Council Why does the parish cross have a circle behind it? During the early centuries of the church in Ireland and Scotland, the Celtic Cross, or sometimes called the Gaelic Cross, symbolized a solidly built Christian community. Today the symbol of St. Columbkille s Church, a unique version of the Celtic Cross, symbolizes a strong Catholic Christian parish. The Celtic Cross incorporates the Latin cross with a circle symbolic of eternity encompassing the crossbeams. The circle may have been added to the Latin cross because of the Byzantine influence in that part of the world during the early centuries of the Church. Today these crosses are seen throughout the Irish and Scottish countryside. They once served as a wayside or sanctuary for the traveler. Before printing was widespread, the crosses, intricately carved with illustrations about the Christian faith, were used to teach people about Jesus Christ and the mysteries of the Christian religion. The St. Columbkille Pastoral Council approved a unique design of the Celtic Cross as the official symbol of St. Columbkille Church on November 9, St. Columbkille Our parish patron saint, St. Columbkille, is not well known outside of Ireland and Scotland, yet he is one of the three great saints of Ireland and was the first missionary to Scotland. Born in 521 in Donegal, Ireland to a family connected to kings and princes, Columb was a man gifted with incredible talents. He wrote poetry and music, established churches and monasteries, preached the gospel and painted manuscripts. St. Adamnan, his biographer, wrote of him: He had the face of an angel; he was of an excellent nature, polished in speech, holy in deed, great in counsel... loving unto all. He is personally described as A man well-formed, with powerful frame; his skin was white, his face broad and fair and radiant, lit up with large, gray, luminous eyes. From an early age Columb seemed destined for the priesthood, and his family sent him off to study under the future St. Finnian. At Clonard Abbey he surrendered his princely claims, became a monk, and was ordained. He spent the next 15 years preaching and teaching in Ireland. As was the custom in those days, he combined study and prayer with manual labor. By his own natural gifts as well as by the good fortune of his birth, he soon gained ascendancy as a monk of unusual distinction. By the time he was 25, he had founded no less than 27 Irish monasteries, including those at Derry, Durrow, and Kells, as well as some 40 churches. His work for the Church gained him the addition of kille to his name. Columb means dove in Gaelic and kille is church, so he came to be known as the church s dove. Columb lived, with every ounce of his energy, the commission of Jesus to go and make disciples. There is a famous tale about Columbkille that stands as one of the first copyright cases on record: he was so anxious to have a copy of Finnian s Psalter that he shut himself up at night in the church that contained it and secretly transcribed it by hand. He was discovered by a monk who watched him through the keyhole and reported it to his superior. Bibles and prayer books were so scarce in those days that Abbot Finnian claimed the copy, refusing to allow it to leave the monastery. Columbkille refused to surrender it until he was obliged to do so, under protest, on Finnian s appeal to King Diarmaid, who said, To every cow its calf, meaning to every book its copy. While historically a bit unclear, an unfortunate period followed, during which, owing to Columbkille s protection of a refugee and his impassioned denunciation of an injustice by King Diarmaid, war broke out between the clans of Ireland, and Columbkille became an exile of his own accord. Filled with remorse on account of those who had been slain in battle and condemned by many of his own friends, he experienced a change of heart and an irresistible call to preach to those who had not heard the gospel. In 563, at the age of 42, he left Ireland with 12 companions and landed on an island now known as Iona. Here on this desolate rock, only three miles long and two miles wide, in the northern sea off the southwest corner of Mull, Scotland, he began his work. Iona became a center of Christian learning, the heart of Celtic Christianity, and a potent factor in the conversion of the Picts, Scots, and Northern English. Monks from the monasteries established by Columbkille would later travel to mainland Europe and Christianize the Frank and Germanic tribes. There are many miracles and incredible events recorded by St. Adamnan in his biography of St. Columbkille and they make for interesting reading. If you wish to believe it, he is one of the first people to encounter the Loch Ness monster. His memory remains a potent force in Celtic lands and his poetry and songs are still sung: Alone with none but Thee, my God, I journey on my way; what need I fear when Thou art near, O King of night and day? 20