Repent, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be wiped away. Page

Transcription

1 Page Repent, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be wiped away.

2 St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 8501 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN Mission Statement : The Roman Catholic Saint Thomas More Parish Family welcomes and invites every person to join us on our journey in faith and celebration. With the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and through Sacred Scripture and Tradition, we proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all, especially in loving service to those in need. As part of the Universal Church, we affirm the dignity of every person. All this we do to give glory and honor to God. Pastoral Staff Pastor... Reverend Michael J. Yadron, KHS; Ext. 312 myadron@stm-church.com Associate Pastor... Reverend Richard C. Holy; Ext. 314 rholy@stm-church.com Deacons... Mr. David Kapala, KHS... Mr. Joseph Stodola, KHS... Dr. Napoleon Tabion... Mr. Daniel Zurawski, KHS Stewardship Director... Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Pastoral Care Coordinator... Deacon Napoleon Tabion; Ext. 315 Director of Religious Formation... Mrs. Sandra Morgan; Ext. 332 Parish Office Staff Office Hours: Monday-Friday ~ 8:00 am-8:00 pm Saturday ~ 8:00 am-4:00 pm Web Site address... parish.office@stm-church.com address for bulletin... bulletin@stm-church.com Office Phone Office Fax Bulletin Editor... Mrs. Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309 Daytime Receptionist... Mrs. Susan Strain; Ext. 310 Evening Receptionist... Ms. Veronica Brtos; Ext. 310 Pastoral Ministries Circle of Prayer... Mary Jo Humpfer Environment & Art... Jean Bados Eucharistic Ministers... Carole Mackey Hospitality Ministry... Ann D Orazio Lectors... William McDunn Music Ministry... Miss Angie Lorandos , Ext. 338 Nursery... Kaaren A. Mashura St. Vincent de Paul... Mrs. Bernadine Barrett Vocations Committee... Mrs. Mary Kochis Pastoral Council Members Tom Alexander, Chairperson... Daniel Buksa Timothy Etter... Don Kopenec Jackie Kovach... John Kovach Andrea Mazerik... Phil McIntosh Krystal Quagliara... Susan Rousseau Linda Stefanich... Joann Wleklinski St. Thomas More School Pre-School through 8th Grade Office Hours: Monday Friday ~ 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Web Site... School Phone School Fax Principal... Mr. Chet Nordyke, KHS; Ext. 328 Assistant Principal....Mrs. Tina Boyle; Ext. 328 School Administrative Assistant.Mrs. Jennifer Gonzalez; Ext. 328 School Reception & Office Associate..Mrs. Sandra Steele; Ext. 329 Home & School Association.Mrs. Mary Beth Ginalski; Parish & School Offices Associate Mrs. Mary Jo Biscan; Ext. 311 Parish & School Offices Associate... Mrs. Pam Wadycki; Ext. 339 Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue ~ Munster, IN Phone Fax St. Thomas More Religious Education Kindergarten through 8th Grade Office Hours:M-F 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Religious Education Phone Director... Mrs. Sandra Morgan; Ext. 332 Administrative Assistant... Carolyn McGill; Ext. 336 Grades K through 8 ~ Wednesday or Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. Pastoral Commissions Chairpersons Formation/Education... Mrs. Barbara Topete Parish Life... Mrs. Elaine Herrmann Peace & Social Justice...Ms. Mary Silvasi Spirituality & Worship... Mrs. Kaaren Mashura Stewardship... Mrs. Noreen Bickel Parish Organizations Altar & Rosary Society... Cindy Keilman Elizabeth Ministry... Pam Domasica Holy Name Society... Joe Adams Senior Citizens... Joan Klein Respect Life... Alice Wohler Knights of Columbus... Robert Gozdecki Blue Army... Rose Marie Malburg Finance... Barbara Shaver Planned Giving... Ken Krupinski Building Maintenance... Bob Ray Boy Scouts... Roger Jachna Cub Scouts... Steve Hrinda Girl Scouts... Julie Buksa Catering/Hall Rental... Kathleen Pagorek Moms Group... Leticia Kotso Ushers Club... Jim Marmalejo Gabriel Project... Kathy Trotman The Travelers Club..Lois Quinn Career Networking Group Christine Spencer Page 2 Sacramental Information Confessions Saturdays... 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. First Friday... 1/2 hour before the 6:30 a.m. Mass Baptisms... First and Third Sundays at 1:00 p.m. Parents must be registered parishioners and regularly attending at least six months before the Baptism. At least one of the godparents must be a practicing Catholic. Pre Baptism Class... 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Parents must call the Parish Office to schedule class and/or Baptism. Marriage... Must be a registered, practicing member of the parish at least six months before beginning the six month preparation program for marriage. Communion calls and visits to Hospitals and Homebound: Call the Parish Office for Sacraments at hospital or at home. New Parishioner Registration To make it as convenient as possible for you, new parishioners may register at any time in the Parish Office. Please remember St. Thomas More in your Will and Estate Planning

3 Third Sunday of Easter April 22, 2012 Saturday, April 28 5:30 p.m. Fr. Mike Yadron Sunday, April 29 6:30 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 8:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 10:00 a.m. Fr. Rick Holy 12:00 Noon Fr. Rick Holy SATURDAY, April 28 8:30 am M. Reynolds, D. Dy 5:30 pm C., E. & F. Beckman, B. & R. Caraher MC ~ Joe O. SUNDAY, April 29 6:30 am E. & V. Zaczyk, A. Zajakowski 8:00 am B. Hanusin, I. & N. Hinojosa, S. Kenning, S. Lyons MC ~ Evan 10:00 am D. Zuccarelli, AJ. & M. Argamasilla, M. Boyd, S. Cloghessy MC ~ Joey 12:00 pm C. & S. O Brien, N. Brough MC ~ Alyssa Readings for the Week April 22, 2012 Sunday: Acts 3:13-15, 17-19/1 Jn 2:1-5a/Lk 24:35-48 Monday: Acts 6:8-15/Jn 6:22-29 Tuesday: Acts 7:51--8:1a/Jn 6:30-35 Wednesday: 1 Pt 5:5b-14/Mk 16:15-20 Thursday: Acts 8:26-40/Jn 6:44-51 Friday: Acts 9:1-20/Jn 6:52-59 Saturday: Acts 9:31-42/Jn 6:60-69 Next Sunday:Acts 4:8-12/1 Jn 3:1-2/Jn 10:11-18 SUNDAY, April 22 Third Sunday of Easter 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Lynda Kraynik by Joseph & Carole Janusonis 10:00 am Charlotte Ziemkiewicz by Mr. & Mrs. William K. McDunn 12:00 pm Frederick Ozanam by STM St. Vincent de Paul Society MONDAY, April 23 St. George, St. Adalbert 6:30 am Michael & Mickey Lipay by Family 8:30 am Ernest Fenyes by Family TUESDAY, April 24 St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen 6:30 am Eugene Walczak (Ann.) by Jim & Arlene Kender 8:30 am Norman Banas by Wife Ruth and Family 10:00 am Intention of Janet Kompier by Florence Krull (MASS AT MED-INN Chapel, Group 4) WEDNESDAY, April 25 St. Mark 6:30 am Cleo Kaprocki by Jim & Mona Callahan 8:30 am Vicki McDermott by Andrea & John Mudro THURSDAY, April 26 6:30 am Robert Wierzbinski by Wife & Family 9:00 am Carmen Domingo (Ann.) by Bill & Dorothy O Brien FRIDAY, April 27 6:30 am Intention of Mary Sarnecki by Kathleen Kennedy 8:30 am Marcia Etter (Ann.) by Husband Tim SATURDAY, April 28 St. Peter Chanel, St. Louis Grignion de Montfort 8:30 am Thomas Kovach, Sr. by Doreen DePalmo 2:00 pm Kaszuba/Lapierre Nuptials 5:30 pm Richard & Rita Wojcinski by Susan Rousseau SUNDAY, April 29 Fourth Sunday of Easter World Day of Prayer for Vocations 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Joseph Kvasnica Jr. (Ann.) by Mr. & Mrs. William Kvasnica 10:00 am Ted Leask (Ann.) by Wife Lorraine & Family 12:00 pm William Bogumil Sr. by Steve Jalovecky Bann III Ryan Kaszuba & Lauren Lapierre Bann I Jarek Pozdzal & Jennifer Dinell Sacrificial Offerings Giving for Sunday April 15, 2012 Adult $ 20, Loose $ 3, Children $ TOTAL $ 24, Dolores Sipple Additional Easter Collection.$ 3, TIME, TALENT & TREASURE Thank you for your generosity. Page 3

4 Third Sunday of Easter The traditional opening of the fishing season in many places takes place between the end of April and the middle of May. Although the exact day can vary by locale, usually by May 15, everything is fair game with the exception of a few sport fish, which are heavily regulated. Much like hunters who can't wait to go after their favorite game, fishermen anxiously wait for the opportunity to cast their lines into open water. Some look forward to participating in fishing contests to try to win a prize for the largest of a particular species. But most are happy just to catch enough to enjoy some good meals of fresh fish. When Jesus appears to his disciples after his resurrection one of the things that he does, according to both Luke and John, is to eat fish in their presence. For the Gospel writers this is a way of indicating that the resurrected body, whatever it may actually be, is also a human body. The risen Lord is no ghost; he is bodily raised from the dead! This truth is at the core of our faith. As Peter states in the first reading today, "God raised him from the dead; of this we are witnesses." We are witnesses of that same truth today. The old jokes about fishermen all have exaggeration as a theme. The biggest one always gets away. Fifteen-inch fish are suddenly twenty-five inches, and five pounders end up becoming ten pounds in the telling of the story. As Christians, we have our own story to tell. But it's not a fish story. It is a story about the One who conquered sin and death through his own death and resurrection. Through our baptism we are raised to new life by the Author of life. Like Peter, who was himself a fisherman, we are called to testify to this truth in the world. It's time to go fishing! c Coleen Alexander Margaret Amatulli Doris Aurelio Maria Aurelio Irene Baker John Baker Cody Baldwin Antonio Belmonte Tom Bernacke Michael Berry Michael Blazevich Laverne Blumka Michael Boston Cheryl Bostrom Stephany Burney Dorothy Campbell James Campbell Barbara Cak Thomas Cak Al Carollo Carol Carollo Joseph Cwiok Jacqueline Morrow Christian Frank Coman Vincent Corsello John Costa Mike Curtain Margaret Demkovich Lucille Detterline Irene Dettmer Ann DeVoy MaryPat Devoy Irene Dickey Jeanine Doescher Charles Dybel Alex Eiland John L. Estrada Sherlon Evans Virginia Fitzgerald John Forde Phyllis Garber Andrea Garritano Dorothy Gillespie Margaret Good lease pray for the sick of our parish... Kyle Grady Howard Gralewski James Grunewald Eileen Hasse Amy Hayes Eleanore Heggi Marie Henke Evelyn Hennes Ray Humpfer Steve Izzo Dennis Jablonski Elizabeth Jacob Barbara Jamrose Stanley Jayjack Rosemary Jerzak-Staszel Debbie Kaczka Robert Kalka Margaret A. Kapala Carol Keilman Patricia Kerr Rev. Matthew Kish Josephine Knesek Janet Knight Alice Kolember Dorothy Kovach Miller Krizmanic Jerome Kula Roland Kwasny Debbie Le Monier Gene Leahy Mary Leahy Jo Lisiniewicz Edward Liskiewicz Stanley Liskiewicz Maria Lovell Moira McShane Lukas Carole Mackey Charlene Madura Gregory Mahoney Mary Manchak Brady Martin Alex Mau Joseph McShane Faye Meny Sandi Merlo Stephanie Mueller Olga Mihalo Andrew Moll Elissa Moll David Moll Jean Narvid Donna Nichols Steven Nowaczyk Valerie O Donnell Danny Ogren Irene Orzel Ruth Ospalski Audrey Ostroff Johanna Petruch Andrew Pieczyrak Elizabeth Pilones Sylvester Porras Timothy Ribble Kristen Rubin Anthony Saklaczynski Ann Sardella George Sauer Marie Schultz Marianne Schwartz William Schwartz Zachery Scriff James Secviar Jim Seul Renee Shehan Nick Skinner Lydia Skorupa Carolyn Smiley Deborah Stareck Charles Stevens Florence Stevens Georgianne Suto Celine Szczepaniak Rose Theis Gerardo Trevino Anthony Ubuane Julia Vrbanich Joyce Wadlow Pam Wadycki Adele Wall Sue Wass Cecilia Ziegler Page 4 SUNDAY, April 22 Blood Drive from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 Noon in the Gym 8:00 am Holy Name Mass & Breakfast ~ Solar Room MONDAY, April 23 7:00 pm Choral Concert for Grades 4 to 8 ~ Church 7:00 pm Blue Army ~ Chapel 7:30 pm Knights of Columbus ~ Solar Room TUESDAY, April 24 9:15 am Eucharistic Adoration (until 6:30 pm) ~ Chapel 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations ~ Chapel 6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet ~ Chapel 7:00 pm RCIA ~ Conference Room WEDNESDAY, April 25 9:30 am Bible Study ~ Conference Room 4:30 pm Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 p.m.) Last Wednesday Class (except for 3rd Grade) 6:30 pm St. Vincent De Paul ~ Conference Room THURSDAY, April 26 4:30 pm Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 p.m.) Last Thursday Class (except for 3rd Grade) 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale ~ Church 7:00 pm Catholics Coming Home ~ Conference Room 7:00 pm K of C Squires ~ Solar Room SUNDAY, April 29 St. Vincent De Paul Food Collection at All Masses Jillian Christine Daughter of Russell & Danielle Doszak Aiden Christian Son of Aaron & Jayne Dudek Christopher Andrew Son of Michael & Serla Fromm Adrian Michael Son of Michael Martinez & Kristina Stephan Ashley Rose Daughter of Joseph & Jennifer Stephen Pastoral Care Ministry If a friend or family member would like to receive Communion at home, call the Pastoral Care Office at , #315. Vocations Committee Gracious God, you have blessed me with many gifts and talents. Grant me the wisdom to know how best to use them for the glory of your name. Jesus calls, Come follow me ; I want to follow him and be faithful to my call. Help me to see in myself what you see, and give me the courage to follow wherever you may lead. Bless the Church with generous hearts, eager to serve your people and to spread your Word. Amen.

5 The Pastor s Page The Catholic Services Appeal (CSA) will soon be upon us. This year, our parish goal is $112,341. Last year, with your help, we exceeded our goal. Remember, any money raised over and above our goal is returned to the parish. The presence of the CSA means the absence of six extra special collections a year. The Diocese of Gary has budgeted those second collection contributions into the CSA. Our contributions help the local Church and many people in that local Church. For example, funds from CSA help Camp Lawrence, Catholic Charities, and the Diocesan Tuition Assistance Program, to name a few. Our contributions also help those who have served our diocese for so long. To be more specific, money from the CSA is set aside for our clergy retirement fund and is sent to religious orders for their religious retirement funds. Finally, the CSA assists the national and universal Church. There are many people who benefit from the money sent to places such as Catholic Relief Services as well as to several charities aided by money sent to our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI. Our contributions also help the parish directly. We have done a lot, over the years, with the rebate we received from CSA. This year, we would like to target our rebate to take care of several items: Finishing the replacement of windows in the school building. Paying for a structural/engineering/physical plant study for some long-range goals for our parish and school buildings. With your generous contribution, I know that we can accomplish these goals! The pledge weekends are April and May 5-6. Keeping in mind all the areas that are assisted by the CSA (including our parish through the rebate we receive) I ask you to give as generously as you can possibly manage this year. If you gave last year, would you consider another gift this year? I know that the economy has everyone pinching and pruning their budgets. But if you can make a contribution, that would help us immensely. May I count on your financial help again this year? God bless you for your generosity! OUR SCHOOL YEAR IS COMING TO A CLOSE Before you know it, our school year will be ending. As the end approaches, some big days happen. Our third graders already began kicking off those big days with their reception of First Penance. Please keep them in your prayers as the prepare to receive their First Communion in May. Our eighth graders celebrated their reception of Confirmation on Palm Sunday weekend. Please pray for them that they prepare for graduation. PLEASE, KEEP SUMMER ATTIRE OUTSIDE With the changing of the weather, the changing of the clothes has already begun to take place. So many too many people come to church, during the spring and summer months, dressed entirely inappropriately. Shorts and t-shirts, sweatpants, and other kinds of attire are not appropriate clothes for church. We should dress up to show our respect for God and for one another. Some people come dressed so poorly that they are a terrible distraction to the faithful in the pews. Whatever happened to the term, Sunday best? If you want to hang out in skimpy clothes, feel free to do that at the beach. If, however, you are coming to church, please dress appropriately. ON THE LIGHTER SIDE Seen on signs around the world: Take Notice: When this sign is under water, this road is impassable. Are you an adult that cannot read? If so, we can help. Persons are prohibited from picking flowers from any but their own graves. Open seven days a week and weekends. PLEASE REMEMBER THEM Please pray for the priests and deacons who have served the Diocese of Gary so faithfully and whose anniversaries of death are this week: April 22: Rev. John F. Bart (1970) April 25: Rev. Joseph P. Casey (1983) April 26: Rev. Luke Brickel (1976) April 27: Rev. John A. Costello (1972) Page 5

6 Religious Education Religious Education Registration Registration for 2012/13 Religious Education classes has begun. Registration information has been sent to parents. The following rates will apply for the upcoming school year: Parishioner Before May 1, 2012 After May 1, 2012 One Child Two Children Three Children Four Children Non-Parishioner Before May 1, 2012 After May 1, 2012 One Child Two Children Three Children Four Children Sacrament Fees Confirmation Fee... $ First Penance & First Holy Communion..$ 5.00 American Bible (4th Grade & up) $ 8.00 April Schedule 25/26 Last Class for All (except 3rd Grade First Communicants) May Schedule 2/3 Third Grade classes only 9/10 Third Grade classes only 16/17 All First Communicants Both Days for Practice 19 First Holy Communion 10:00 a.m. Senior Citizens Luncheon The next luncheon will be held on Monday, April 30th at the Purple Steer Restaurant on Indianapolis Boulevard in Highland (across from Wicker Park) at 11:30 a.m. Please join us. Installation Luncheon on Wednesday, May 2nd Michael s Restaurant on 45th Street in Highland Reservations and a $10 payment is required by Monday, April 23rd. Taizé Prayer Service Do you need time to be still, quiet and pray? Join us for our next Taizé Evening Prayer Service at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 29th in the Church. Experience the beauty of this meditative prayer service as you enhance your spiritual journey to grow closer to God. New Altar Servers Interested in Becoming an Altar Server? Any St. Thomas More School or STM Religious Education student, currently in the 4th grade or higher, that is interested in becoming a new Altar Server is invited to attend an Information/Sign-Up Meeting Thursday, May 10, :00 p.m. in the Solar Room. Please bring a parent with you. If you have questions, please call Susan Burke at (219) Catholics Coming Home Have you been away from practicing your faith for a while? Did you want to come back and didn t know how? This is an open invitation to non-practicing Catholics who are considering returning to their faith and the sacraments. A multiweek program will explore the Mass, Sacraments and provide an opportunity to exchange faith stories. We meet each Thursday at 7:00 p.m. in our Parish Conference Room and will continue to meet through May 17th. Each meeting lasts for about an hour. Come reconnect and rediscover your Catholic Faith in a positive group setting. Please join us on this journey, for yourself, or tell someone that you know about us. We ask that you register at the Parish (219) We want you back home. Blood Drive This Weekend Don t forget to help others by giving blood this Sunday, April 22nd from 8:00 a.m. to Noon in the STM Gym. Lectors for April 28 & 29, :30 pm Mass Ruth Banas & Ann Harkenrider 6:30 am Mass Phil McIntosh & Frances Szymanski 8:00 am Mass Paul Liszewski & Marilyn Pajor 10:00 am Mass Pam Frazier & Bill McDunn 12:00 pm Mass Cal Bellamy & Adriane Blaesing Greeters for April 28 & 29, :30 pm Mass Main: Tom & Linda Brady Chapel: Bill & Chris Retseck Choir: Millicent Ntiamoah 6:30 am Mass Main: Val Rudakas Chapel: Carla Covelli 8:00 am Mass Main: Dennis & Lucy Perz Chapel: Pat Strange Choir: Rosemary Barker 10:00 am Mass Main: Bev & Rich Lasky Chapel: Joan Mucha & Gen Gogolak Choir: Joe McShane 12:00 Noon Mass Chapel: Dominique Mercier Choir: Pat Batchelder Page 6

7 April 22, 2012 St. Thomas More School Register Now! See Why an STMS Education Makes a Difference! Catholic Values Stressed in a Safe Christian Environment with Mass Participation & Sacramental Preparation Exemplary A Rating from the Indiana Department of Education with Superior ISTEP Scores Fully Accredited by the State of IN with Licensed Faculty & Dedicated Staff Full & Half-Day Preschool, Pre-K & Kindergarten Classes Honors Programs in Grades 6 to 8 Small Class Sizes with Excellent Teacher to Student Ratios Special Services Department Providing Educational Services & Student Aid Spanish Taught in Grades 1 through 8 Before & After School Care Tuition Reduction Incentive Program State-of-the-Art Technology Full-time Art, Music, Computer, Phys. Ed. & Resource Center Faculty Athletics begin in 5th Grade: Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Cross Country & Track More than 15 Extra- Curricular Activities Offered Active Parent Organization To learn more or to schedule a personal tour, please contact Pam Pasyk at (219) , #309 or ppasyk@stm-school.com There s a Lot of Love at St. Thomas More School A Morning of Fun for Our Incoming Kindergarten Students The Kindergarten teachers and aides of St. Thomas More School, assisted by the staff from the Weis Center, hosted an enjoyable morning of Valentine-related activities for prospective new kindergarten students and their parents in mid-february. The gym was alive with the sound of laughter, as children made their way around the room, busying themselves with the many stations of activities, games and interactive play experiences befitting the young attendees. Thanks to everyone who attended. We look forward to seeing you this fall at the big school. Page 7

8 St. Thomas More Pastoral Council Nomination Ballot Would you consider becoming a member or the St. Thomas More Pastoral Council? The Pastoral Council members are parishioners who are willing to participate in prayer and spiritual formation, willing to listen to others and new ideas, understanding and accept the mission of our parish, willing to work as team members, and willing to make a commitment of time and talent to the Council, the Parish and the Church. This is a 3-year commitment. A series of three evenings of prayer, education and faith sharing constitute STM s Discernment Process. The Discernment Sessions give the candidates an opportunity to learn more about the Pastoral Council. These sessions will be held on the following Tuesdays: May 8, May 15 and May 22 at 7:00 p.m. On Pentecost Sunday, May 27th, New Council members will be chosen at the 10:00 a.m. Mass. Nominees must be a practicing Roman Catholic, a registered member of St. Thomas More Parish, not separated from the sacraments, and be at least 18 years of age. The nominees cannot be a full-time employee of the parish or school. Nominees will be contacted to verify their acceptance of the nomination. Members of our parish can nominate themselves or others by completing the Nomination Form below. Nominee: Phone: Nominee: Phone: Nominee: Phone: Please deposit the Nomination Forms in the Red Ballot Boxes located at each church entrance. The Nomination period will end on Sunday, April 22 after the 12:00 p.m. Mass. My Two Cents Thoughts on Living Stewardship Third Sunday of Easter Fundamental to us as Christians is our belief that Jesus Christ really died on the cross, that he was truly raised from the dead, and that he will return at the end of time as he promised. In today s readings we learn that Jesus gave his disciples the task to preach repentance and forgiveness of sins to all nations. This was a lifetime task. Each time we come to the Eucharist we are fed for the journey. We are to go forth to love and serve the Lord. What mission is Christ calling you to fulfill? St. Vincent De Paul In the past month, we paid out over $2,000 in utilities assistance & continue to provide food to about 20 families each week. Right now the pantry is in need of the following: Dish Soap Pasta Sauce Spaghetti/Mostaciolli Noodles Pancake Mix & Syrup Canned Beans Meal Helpers Jello Your generosity is greatly appreciated! Join the Student Choir All children in grades three and higher are encouraged and invited to join the Student Choir which will sing at the 5:30 p.m. Mass on Saturday, April 28th. All those interested in singing should be at the Church at 4:30pm for practice before Mass. Please contact Angie Lorandos for details at alorandos@stm-church.com or (219) , x338. Early Bird Raffle Drawings Get your Festival Raffle Tickets in ASAP. The first drawing will be April 30th. Return your tickets to the Parish Office via mail or place in the Sunday collection basket. Parish Festival RAFFLE Career Networking Group * 80% of Jobs are Unadvertised *75% of Jobs are Found through Networking Next Meeting: Thursday, May 17, :00 to 9:00 p.m. Speaker: Lee Junkans Senior Director of MBA Career Services at University of Notre Dame Assistant Dean, Career Services at University of Rochester Director of MBA Career Services at Duke University Professional Staffing/College Recruiting at Eaton Corporation Mr. Junkans will be giving his award-winning mock interview presentation: How You Answer Interview Questions vs. What the Employer Hears Where: St. Thomas More Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN When: 3rd Thursday of every month at 7:00 p.m. STMCareerGroup@gmail.com Free! Open to All! For those who are unemployed (in transition), new to the job market, employed or who can offer employment opportunities through their current professional connections. Have your Cover Letter, Resume or Thank You Note critiqued by a professional. Page 8

9 HELP WANTED: EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Catholic Foundation for Northwest Indiana The Executive Director is responsible for all operations of the Catholic Foundation, including donor relations, fund development, public promotion, strategic planning, accounting, and administrative services. Essential functions include working closely with the Board and its committees to carry out an active marketing program for cultivating gifts; providing ongoing communication and support to donors and endowment beneficiaries; and accurately maintaining donor records and financial accounts. To request a detailed job description or to apply for this position, please submit a letter of interest and resume on or before May 31, 2012 to: Diana Murray Catholic Foundation for Northwest Indiana 9292 Broadway, Merrillville, IN or to: dmurray@catholicfuture.org For more information about the Catholic Foundation, visit Columbian Squires News Meeting & Pizza Party on Thursday, April 26th at 7:00 p.m. in the Solar Room. We will be discussing our trip to the Squires Convention in Indianapolis on April 27-29, as well as other upcoming events. Membership in the Squires is open to all Catholic boys between the ages of 10 and 17. You do not have to be a son of a Knight of Columbus to be in the Squires. If you would like more information about the Squires, please visit our website at For further information, please contact Chief Squires Counselor, Rich Alvarado at (219) or richalvar@aol.com. We Need You! Any of You! Spring is here and the St. Thomas More Garden Club needs some new blood. We are not looking for a blood transfusion, but an infusion of new members (a.k.a. workers). The average age of our group is 77, that includes two relatively new younger women who, for the most part, can outwork the 15 men in the club. The club meets at the Barn on Wednesday & Friday from 9:00 a.m. to Noon. We guarantee you will enjoy the STM Garden Club social interaction and the healthy exercise while contributing to the beautification of the parish grounds. Any male or female workers are more than welcome and very much appreciated. Give us a shot! You might be surprised at how much fun it is! Page 9 Respect Life Corner Lake County Right to Life Banquet on April 27th at Avalon Manor in Merrillville at 6:00 p.m. Call Alice at (219) , or John at (219) Come sit at one of our tables! Education Series on the Impact of Abortion On Saturday, April 28th at 9:30 a.m., a special program of the Educational Series on the Psychological and Spiritual Impact of Abortion titled, Abortion Loss and Unresolved Grief, will run for the day at Our Lady of Consolation Parish in Merrillville. Donation of $10. To learn more & to RSVP, please call (219) or rkouris5@yahoo.com Help for Unplanned Pregnancies The Dorothy Abel Purcell Pro-Life Foundation & Catholic Charities Women s Care Center, a newly opened center at 7127 Indianapolis Blvd. in Hammond, provides free pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, diapers, car seats & supplies for those in need. They are in dire need of donations to help save babies & have already assisted approximately 160 young women. If you can help, please send your donation to: Dorothy Abel Purcell Pro-Life Foundation, 8350 Parkview Ave., Munster, IN Help Us... Welcome New Families to the Parish! Remember your first Sunday Mass? Wouldn t it have been nice to know another St. Thomas More family who you could call if you had questions or just to meet in the parking lot to chat? A family that was similar to yours? Now YOU can be that family!! A new Welcoming Ministry is being formed to help all new parishioners to St. Thomas More Church and we need your help! We are looking for mentor families to welcome new families and help them learn about our church and school. What would be involved? You would be asked to attend a brief training session to get an overview of the program and receive some suggestions on how to help your new family feel a part of our community. You would meet and/or talk to your family three or four times during a twelve-week period and that s it! You would be assisting a new family, and making some new friends at the same time...what could be better? And what a wonderful way to become more active in a ministry! Please help us make the St. Thomas More Parish community one in which all new families feel welcomed and at home. We can t do it without you!! Please Theresa Hawryszkow at welcome@stm-church.com. Thank you in advance for your time...theresa.

10 Make the Connection Between Your Parish & Diocesan Programs! Diocese of Gary Making the Connection See what the Diocese and other parishes are doing! The Diocesan Program Coordinators will be holding two Ministry Fairs in April to feature their programs and resources. These evenings will not only provide information for Councils, Commissions and Committees, but more importantly, will help your parishioners make the connection to the programs supported by their contributions to the Catholic Services Appeal. Please attend one: Monday, April 23rd at St. Theresa of Avila Hall in Valparaiso from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, April 30th at Our Lady of Consolation Hall in Merrillville from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Participating Offices: Religious Education Schools Youth Ministry Tribunal Pastoral Councils/Commissions Liturgy/Worship Human Resources Vocations Hispanic Ministries Catholic Services Appeal NWI Catholic Young Adult Ministry Catholic Charities Go, make a difference! This weekend the 2012 Catholic Services Appeal begins in all parishes throughout the Diocese of Gary. This is an opportunity for us to unite with all Catholics in the diocese to share our blessings and show our concern for one another. This year s theme, Go, Make a Difference reminds us that just as the first disciples were empowered to make a difference in the world, we are each given the same power and responsibility through our Baptism and Confirmation. Please support the 2012 Catholic Services Appeal! Bishop Noll Warrior Winnings Raffle Hurry! The drawing for the Warrior Winnings Raffle will be this upcoming Friday, April 27th during the BNI Emporium. Purchase $10 tickets in our Parish Office. Cash prizes of $1,000, $750 and $500. Find rules at: Camp Lawrence Summer Schedule Camp Lawrence in Valparaiso will be holding 5 week-long camping sessions beginning on June 17th and ending on July 28th. Camp rates are $225 per week (discounted first week of $200). A $30 discount may be applied to weeks 2 to 5 if registration and $100 deposit is postmarked by May 31, Call the CYO at (219) for more information. Casino Royale Night The Knights of Columbus Council #8082 are sponsoring a Casino Royale Las Vegas Night on May 5th at St. James Hall (45th & Kennedy) in Highland from 6:10 p.m. until Midnight. Traditional Las Vegas games, plus Texas Holdum. $10 includes all foods & beverages. Must be 21 or older. For more information, call (219) between 8:30 am & 4:30 pm. Pancake Breakfast & Bake Sale All Saints Church at 570 Sibley Street in Hammond is hosting a Pancake Breakfast & Bake Sale on Sunday, April 29th from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Donation of $6 for adults and $3 for children (10 and under) is requested. Call (219) for info. Wounded Healers Grief Support Groups All meetings will be held on Wednesday evenings at St. James Church at 45th and Kennedy in Highland beginning on Wednesday, April 25th. Separate groups for those dealing with the loss of a spouse, loss of a parent, sibling or friend, the loss of child or grandchild, as well as groups for those dealing with the loss of a loved one from suicide. Call (219) for more information. Wednesday meeting dates: April 25 May 9 May 23 June 6 June 20 July 11 Wounded Healers is a non-denominational support group. Golf Outing St. Mary Men s Club of St. Mary Church in Griffith is sponsoring its 9th Annual Golf Outing on Sunday, May 20th at Scherwood Club in Schererville. Scramble starts at noon. Cost is $85 and includes greens fee, golf cart, snack of hot dog & beverage and dinner at the Club in the evening. All proceeds benefit the Women s Care Center in Hammond to assist women with crisis pregnancies. Call Ron at 219) or Tom at (219) for info. Annual Tea The St. Mary Church Rosary Society is holding its Annual Tea on Sunday, May 20th from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the St. Mary-Hildebrandt Hall in Griffith. Join our ladies as they serve teas, savory sandwiches, to-die-for desserts and entertainment. Many raffles, too. Advance tickets only by May 7th. Call (219) for more information. Page 10