Blessed be the G od and FatherofourLord JesusC hrist,who hasblessed usin C hrist with every spiritualblessing in the heavens. Eph 1:3 Page St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 8501 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN 46321 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, KCHS; Ext. 312 myadron@stm-church.com Associate Pastor...............................Reverend Ted J. Mauch; Ext. 314 tmauch@stm-church.com Senior Deacon............................................ Dr. Napoleon Tabion, OFS Deacons ................................................................ David Kapala, KHS ............................................................................ Joseph Stodola, KHS ......................................................................... Daniel Zurawski, KHS Director of Finance ........................................ Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Pastoral Care Coordinator.........Deacon David Kapala, KHS; Ext. 313 Director of Music......................................... Angie Lorandos; Ext. 338 Director of Religious Education .................... Emily Hackett; Ext. 332 Director of Development ................................ Amanda King; Ext. 342 Parish Office Staff Hours: Mon-Friday 8:00 am-8:00 pm • Saturday 8:00 am-4:00 pm Web Site.......................................................... www.stm-church.com Email address .................................. parish.office@stm-church.com Email address for bulletin ...................... bulletin@stm-church.com Office Phone………. 836-8610 Office Fax ....................836-9185 Bulletin Editor ..................................................... Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309 Daytime Receptionist........................................ Susan Strain; Ext. 310 Evening Receptionist .................................... Veronica Brtos; Ext. 310 Building Maintenance…………………………Dale Slosser 836-8610 Pastoral Ministries Environment & Art ............................................. Jean Bados 836-8610 Eucharistic Ministers ................................... Carole Mackey 808-9732 Hospitality/Greeters ................................... Chris Shearman 923-1419 Lectors ...................................................... William McDunn 922-9459 Nursery ..................................................Kaaren A. Mashura 836-5079 St. Vincent de Paul ................................. Michael Martinelli 836-8610 Vocations Committee ...................................... Mary Kochis 322-7262 2014-2015 Pastoral Council Members Leslie Dernulc.................................................................. Joe Dubczak Wendy Jasinski ...........................................................Nancy Klawitter Christi Kordeck................................... Michael Korfiatis, Chairperson Jim Landowski......................................................... Jesse Montenegro Joe O’Brien ....................................................................Kurt Popovich Cheryl Staniszewski.................................................. Cindy Thompson St. Thomas More School Pre-School through 8th Grade Office Hours: Monday– Friday ~ 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Web Site........................................................... www.stm-school.com School Phone ......... 836-9151 School Fax ..........................836-0982 President ........................................................ Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Principal............................................................... Jay Harker; Ext. 328 Assistant Principal ......................................... Cynthia Block; Ext. 328 School Administrative Assistant……….. Jennifer Gonzalez; Ext. 328 School Reception & Office Associate………. Sandra Steele; Ext. 329 Home & School Association.................. Kris Miller; (312) 909-8156 Parish & School Offices Associate .............. Mary Jo Biscan; Ext. 311 School Admissions .............................................. Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309 Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue ~ Munster, IN 46321 Phone .....................................................................................836-2660 Fax .........................................................................................836-2655 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. St. Thomas More Religious Education Kindergarten through 8th Grade Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Friday — 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Wednesday & Thursday — 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Religious Education Phone ........................................................... 836-8610 Director ..................................................................Emily Hackett; 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 ............................................................Barbara Topete Parish Life ......................................................................... Elaine Herrmann Peace & Social Justice.............................................................. Mary Silvasi Spirituality & Worship ....................................................... Kaaren Mashura Stewardship ........................................................................... Noreen Bickel Parish Organizations Altar & Rosary Society .................................... Kathleen Pagorek 972-0539 Blue Army ................................................... Rose Marie Malburg 836-8779 Boy Scouts ................................................................ Curt Anglin 902-5126 Career Networking Group…………………… Christine Spencer 836-8610 Circle of Prayer………………………………..Mary Jo Humpfer 836-5002 Cub Scouts .............................................................Alan Pischner 306-7552 Finance ................................................................ Barbara Shaver 838-9200 Gabriel Project………………………………….Marilyn Glennon 515-2901 Garden Club ............................................................ Paul Mazerik 644-8409 Gifts of Love & Warmth……………………..Bernadine Nemeth 513-6544 Girl Scouts............................................................................. Renee Whelan Holy Name Society ....................................................................... 836-8610 Knights of Columbus ....................................... Richard Alvarado 614-3743 K of C Columbian Squires…………………........Ralph Konkoly 588-4559 Moms’ Group ................................................................................ 836-8610 Oblates……………………………………………...Denise Gard 836-9115 Respect Life .................................................................................. 836-8610 Senior Citizens ........................................................... Herb Cleve 670-2982 The Travelers Club…………………………………..Lois Quinn 836-7902 Ushers Club ..................................................... ….Jim Marmalejo 836-1463 Venture Crew……………………………………....Fr. Ben Ross 322-4505 Please remember St. Thomas More Page in 2 your Will and Estate Planning Fifteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time July 12, 2015 Saturday, July 18 5:30 p.m. Fr. Mike Yadron Sunday, July 19 6:30 a.m. Carmelite Father 8:00 a.m. Carmelite Father 10:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 12:00 Noon Fr. Mike Yadron MONDAY, July 13 8:30 am A. Powell, E. Miller TUESDAY, July 14 8:30 am E. Miller, P. Cullars WEDNESDAY, July 15 8:30 am E. Miller, P. Cullars THURSDAY, July 16 9:00 am V. James, J. Hunt SUNDAY, July 12 — Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am James Murphy by Brother Peter Murphy 10:00 am Isaac Christian Larsen by Ed & Carolyn Smiley 12:00 pm Edward & Mary Solczak by Michael & Carol Zatorski MONDAY, July 13 — St. Henry 6:30 am Bill Garzinski (Ann.) by Cyndi Cunningham & Patti Hreha 8:30 am Antoni Rajkowski by Family TUESDAY, July 14 — St. K ateri Tekakwitha 6:30 am Pio Caampued by Serrano Family 8:30 am Donna Jean Strange (Ann.) by Family 10:00 am Harriet Sus by STM Altar & Rosary Society (MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 1) FRIDAY, July 17 8:30 am V. James, J. Hunt WEDNESDAY, July 15 — St. Bonaventure 6:30 am All Souls Day Intentions 8:30 am James McLaughlin by Imelda Huseman SATURDAY, July 18 8:30 am A. Powell, V. James 5:30 pm M. Caraher, S. Donovan, A. & L. Forszt, A. Kleszynski/ MC ~ Ricky THURSDAY, July 16 — Our Lady of Mt. Carmel 6:30 am Angelo & Margaret Bertagnolli by Jim & Arlene Kender 9:00 am Clara Wohadlo (ann.) by Ronald & Charlotte Conn SUNDAY, July 19 6:30 am B. Sikora, L. Cabrales, M. DiCarlo 8:00 am A. Korfiatis, M. Slivka, D. Smith, K. Yaeger, A. Zajakowski/ MC ~ Matt 10:00 am S. O’Rourke, C. Osmulski, D. Zuccarelli, D. Ayala, V. Vasquez/ MC ~ Will 12:00 pm E. Korwek, M. Muta, E. Sopko/ MC ~ Tim Sofia Alejandra Daughter of Jerry & Cinthya Hunter FRIDAY, July 17 6:30 am Steve Bendis (Ann.) by Wife & Family 8:30 am Daniel Jugovic by Family SATURDAY, July 18 — St. Camillus de Lellis 8:30 am Mary E. Anderson by Celine Szczepaniak 2:00 pm Pagorek/Giegerich Nuptials 5:30 pm Coleman E. Sills by Wife JoAnne SUNDAY, July 19 — Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Lawrence H. Rozek by Bernie, David & Sandy Rozek 10:00 am Sherri & Ted Wozniak by Ike & Jackie Rench 12:00 pm Intention of the Aquino Family Sacrificial Offerings III — Erica Pagorek & Adam Giegerich I — Alan Klus & Jessica Beemsterboer July 5, 2015 Vocations Committee The greatest treasure that the good Lord can give a parish is a good, holy and happy priest. Have you ever thought of that? Wouldn’t all the faithful increase in the desire to sustain and help them in their ministry? Adult Loose Children $ 22,281.00 $ 1,928.00 $ 103.31 TOTAL $ 24,312.31 Thank you for your generosity & stewardship to our parish! Page 3 Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time "He instructed them to take nothing for the journey but a walking stickno food, no sack, no money in their belts." Jesus gave the Twelve Apostles a remarkable mission. He sent them out two by two to preach repentance, to cast out evil spirits, and to heal the sick. And he made them do it in a spirit of complete dependence upon God. They were not allowed to take anything along that would have given them material comfort or security. These men--who did not even have the witness of other apostles or saints to inspire or give them courage, and who had not yet beheld the Resurrection of the Lord--stepped out into the world with literally nothing but their faith in this man named Jesus. And look what happened! "The Twelve drove out many demons, and they anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them." The apostles' trust in God's power to work these miracles through their hands began with trust in God's power to provide for their own needs. Because they didn't have food, shelter, or money, every time they received food or shelter or had their needs met, the apostles were able to see that God was at work in their midst. This experience bolstered their faith and encouraged them in their mission. When we find ourselves questioning whether we really have the "power" to do what God wants us to do, then we ought to step back and try to depend a little more directly upon God's providence. Tithing is one way to accomplish this. When we set aside a portion of our income for the sake of others, we make an act of trust in God's power to provide for us. Surrendering this element of care for ourselves allows God to meet our needs himself. And when he does, our faith will flourish too. c lease pray for the sick of our parish... Joshua Alvarez Margaret Amatulli Frieda Andersen Doris Aurelio Maria Aurelio Irene Baker Antonio Belmonte Michael Berry Michael Blazevich Laverne Blumka Michael Boston Cheryl Bostrom Robert Boyle Linda Braun Stephany Burney Paul Burns Dorothy Campbell James Campbell Thomas Cak Al Carollo Carol Carollo Janet Cattanach Jacqueline Morrow Christian Frank Coman Vincent Corsello Mike Curtain Margaret Demkovich Lucille Detterline Irene Dettmer Ann DeVoy MaryPat Devoy Jeanine Doescher Jim D’Orazio Alex Eiland Tom Engwert Sherlon Evans John Forde Phyllis Garber Denise Gard Andrea Garritano Margaret Geary Dorothy Giannini Emily Gibson Dorothy Gillespie Shirley Gillespie Margaret Good Howard Gralewski Margaret Gray James Grunewald Amy Hayes Eleanore Heggi Marie Henke Evelyn Hennes Marisol Hernandez Becky Hill Joan Hoess Megan Homcho Mary Jo Humpfer Betty Ingbretson Steve Izzo Dennis Jablonski Elizabeth Jacob Barbara Jamrose Stanley Jayjack Rosemary Jerzak Carol Keilman James Klein, Sr. Janet Knight Susan Kolodziej Miller Krizmanic Annika LeMonier Debbie LeMonier Mary Leahy Jo Lisiniewicz Edward Liskiewicz Stanley Liskiewicz Maria Lovell Marilyn Madsen Charlene Madura Mary Manchak Brady Martin Jenny Mendoza Faye Meny Sandi Merlo Olga Mihalo Andrew Moll Elissa Moll David Moll Jean Narvid Donna Nichols Steven Nowaczyk Valerie O’Donnell Danny Ogren Mary Ellen O’Neill Emily Orosco Marty Pavovic Johanna Petruch Andrew Pieczyrak Elizabeth Pilones Sylvester Porras Timothy Ribble Jackie Roach Kristen Rubin Ann Sardella George Sauer Marie Schultz Marianne Schwartz William Schwartz Zachery Scriff James Secviar Jim Seul Renee Shehan Nick Skinner Lydia Skorupa Roger Slosser Carolyn Smiley Deborah Stareck Georgianne Suto Celine Szczepaniak Florence Stevens Carrie Szumelda Barbara Szypczak Rose Theis Gerardo Trevino Kathie Trudgian Anthony Ubuane Tony Vanden Heuvel Raymond Vanderbok Julia Vrbanich Adele Wall Charlotte Weglewski Stephanie Wisniewski Don Woszczynski Cecilia Ziegler Cody Ziemkowski MONDAY, July 13 7:00 pm Blue Army ~ Chapel 7:00 pm Vocations ~ Conference Room TUESDAY, July 14 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 Baptism Preparation Class ~ Conference Room THURSDAY, July 16 7:00 pm Career Networking Group ~ Munster Library Note: Change of location SUNDAY, July 19 Blood Drive in the Gym from 8:00 a.m. to Noon Our Capital Campaign has made great strides, but we can’t complete our campaign without your continued assistance. By returning your Pledge Card as soon as possible, you keep our campaign moving forward. Pledge cards can be mailed, turned in to the Parish Office or placed in the Sunday collection basket. Thank you, as always, for your generous support of this important parish project. Our church and school depend on it! Blood Drive Heartland Blood Centers, the sole provider of blood products for 9 area Northwest Indiana hospitals, including Community, will be conducting a Blood Drive in the St. Thomas More Gym Sunday, July 19th — 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon All donors will receive a $5 Target gift card for their donation. Photo ID required. Walk-ins welcome. Bulletin Articles All bulletins articles must be submitted via email at least two (2) weeks in advance to: bulletin@stm-church.com. Readings for Week of July 12, 2015 Sunday: Am 7:12-15/Eph 1:3-14 or 1:3-10/Mk 6:7-13 Monday: Ex 1:8-14, 22/Mt 10:34--11:1 Tuesday: Ex 2:1-15a/Mt 11:20-24 Wednesday: Ex 3:1-6, 9-12/Mt 11:25-27 Thursday: Ex 3:13-20/Mt 11:28-30 Friday: Ex 11:10--12:14/Mt 12:1-8 Saturday: Ex 12:37-42/Mt 12:14-21 Next Sunday: Jer 23:1-6/Eph 2:13-18/Mk 6:30-34 Page 4 The Pastor’s Page ONE NATION — UNDER GOD? Two Hundred and Thirty-Nine Years ago, the people in a “new world” declared their independence from a country on the other shores of the ocean. One of the main reasons for the people in that new world coming here in the first place was to find a land where there would be tolerance to practice their own faith. God was a vital part of their lives and was written into the very fabric of their new country. “In God We Trust” was emblazoned upon our currency. All meetings of the government began with prayer. Chaplains were a common part of any governmental body. Prayer was seen as one of the important tools to keep that fabric of our country intact. In terms of countries and governments, we are among the youngest in the world. Other countries and governments have lasted for many centuries. In two hundred and thirty-nine years we have come a long way. However, in my opinion, in two hundred and thirtynine years, we have also left much of our earlier beliefs behind. God and the practice of faith used to be cherished. Sunday was a day in which very few businesses were open and only essential work was done so that the vast majority of our citizens could be together as families, worshipping together and celebrating together. You would have to look quite hard to find a business that is not open on Sunday nowadays. And many families, if they are even together, do not worship together. Unless, of course, you count sunbathing, sailing, or sports activities as “worship”. Prayer was a virtue that was encouraged everywhere. Schools, public and private, often began their day with prayer and then with the Pledge of Allegiance. Today, it is illegal to lead prayer in the public school. Many schools, and other places, are even considering dropping the Pledge of Allegiance since it has “Under God” among its words. Christianity is under attack in many ways in our country. We have come a long way in two hundred and thirty-nine years. But, we have a longer way to go. We have to do something to keep Satan from winning the battle. We know that he cannot win the war, since Jesus defeated him. But he seems to win many of the battles here on earth. It is time to put God back into the fabric of our daily lives. It is time to pray in public, to do good deeds while claiming to do them in the name of our faith, to act as faithful citizens of the kingdom. We proclaimed our freedom from tyranny once. Let us shake the tyranny of Satan from the fabric of our world! ACCEPT GOD’S PLANS FOR YOU The LORD took me from following the flock, and said to me, Go, prophesy to my people Israel. (Am 7:15) Amaziah tried to get rid of Amos, telling him to go back to Judah and quit prophesying in Bethel. Amos responded that he had never planned on being a prophet. Amos was a shepherd and a dresser of sycamores. However, God had other plans for him. God called him. God sent him. And Amos listened to God. They say that the best way to make God laugh is to tell Him our plans. We make plans all the time. We often do not think about the plans that God has for us. Every so often, however, a moment of clarity strikes and we realize that God is calling us to do something, to say something, to be someone, to go somewhere. The choice? That is entirely ours. The plan? It is entirely the Lord's. FAITH ACTION: You may have lots of plans for this day, this week, this month, this year, maybe for the rest of your life. Take some time in prayer today, however, and ask God if your plans fit His plans for you. I guarantee you, if your plans do not, you will be incredibly unhappy. Choose to accept God's plans for you this day. ON THE LIGHTER SIDE — 4TH OF JULY STYLE What was Thomas Jefferson's favorite dessert? Monti jello! What would you get if you crossed the American national bird with Snoopy? A bald beagle! Did you hear about the cartoonist in the Continental Army? He was a Yankee doodler! What's red, white, blue and green? A seasick Uncle Sam! 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: June 13: Rev. Joseph N. Panavas (1993) June 15: Rev. Joseph Hagemayer (1951) Rev. Louis G. Duray (1966) June 18: Rev. Paul J. Roederer (1963) Page 5 Page 6 Press release from The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz, President Page 7 Religious Education Travelers Club Thursday, August 13, 2015 Odyssey Boat Trip on Beautiful Lake Michigan Navy Pier • Chicago, IL Leave promptly at 9:15 a.m. — Departs Navy Pier at 4:15 p.m. $74 per person Register Now for Fall Classes Register now for Religious Education classes for the 2015-2016 school year! Registration forms can be found on the parish website. Register early to ensure that you get your day of preference. If you are new to the program, a Baptismal certificate is required for registration. Payment in full is required at the time of registration. We look forward to seeing you this fall! Did you know? In order for your children to get the best religious education possible, it is important that they attend religious education classes each year, from Kindergarten through 8th grade, not just when it is time for them to receive a Sacrament. St. Thomas More Religious Education program welcomes ALL Catholic children, including those with special needs. Our class for students with special needs in grades K-8 meets on Thursdays from 4:30-5:30. For more information about our classes, or to sign your children up, please visit the religious education office at (219)836-8610 ext. 332 or email Emily Hackett at ehackett@stm-school.com. We look forward to seeing your children in our program this fall! Catechists Wanted We are currently looking for men and women who are willing to share their faith with the children of STM by volunteering to be a: Catechist Substitute Catechist Classroom Aide Hall Monitor If you are looking for ways to make meaningful contributions to your church, please prayerfully consider if this is something God is calling you to. You will have the opportunity to grow stronger in your faith as you guide the children. Training and assistance for Catechists will be available before classes start. Contact Emily Hackett to 219) 836-8610 ext. 332 or ehackett@stm-school.com What could be better than enjoying the sights of the Chicago skyline while cruising on the Odyssey along the shores of Lake Michigan? This trip is also called the Famous Skyline Luncheon Cruise so we will be enjoying our luncheon on board the Odyssey. The cruise will be from 1:00 -3:00 p.m. and we can already visualize the spaciousness of the boat and all that it offers. Just think of seeing all the famous sights and landmarks that we will be able to observe while viewing the skyline. There are windows on all sides of the boat so we will be able to enjoy the view from any location. The Skyline Luncheon is prepared by Odyssey chefs, famous for their special menus, and will be served elegantly at individual tables….all with good views of the skyline. We will be treated royally. And, as time allows, there’s a lot to do and see on Navy Pier! Please join us and sign up at the Parish Office as soon as possible since this trip will be a very popular one. The cost of the trip includes transportation, boat fees, luncheon and all gratuities. Parking will be in the north parking lot at STM. Anchors Away! Lectors & Greeters for the Week Sunday, July 19 6:30 am Mass Robert Hill & Angela Kvasnica 8:00 am Mass Linda Stefanich & Sue Wilson Saturday, July 18 5:30 pm Mass Joe Dubczak & Jennifer Jones-Garner 10:00 am Mass Theresa Kowalski & Mike Skurka 12:00 Noon Mass Bernadine Barrett & Cal Bellamy Sunday, July 19 6:30 am Mass Main: Marcia Autry Chapel: John & Francis Plisky 8:00 am Mass Main: Paul & Jan Liszewski Bible Study for Teens Have you ever wanted to read the Bible, but felt intimidated by its size? Have you ever wondered whether the Bible even relates to your life at all? Then join us for a Bible study specifically geared to teens. Our next meeting will be Saturday, July 18 5:30 pm Mass Chapel: Chuck & Chris Shearman Choir: Heather Conner & Michelle Ciesar Tuesday, July 21st at 7:00 p.m. in the STMS Teachers’ Lounge Please plan to join us! Page 8 10:00 am Mass Main: Andrea Mazerik Chapel: James & Therese Salisbury Choir: Madeline Mikolanis 12:00 Noon Mass Main: Lois Quinn July 12, 2015 St. Thomas More School Substitute Teachers Needed If you are available to assist St. Thomas More School as a Substitute Teacher for the 2015-2016 school year, please stop in our School Office to obtain and complete an application. You can set your own availability schedule. Days vary according to the need for substitutes. Must be a practicing Roman Catholic and be Virtus-trained, or be available to complete Virtus training (to be held at STM on August 22nd; other dates available elsewhere in the Diocese). You’re Invited Independence Day Spirit! If you have questions regarding the best educational choice for your child, then please join us for this informative evening. Speak with current STMS parents at our upcoming informal STMS Band Participates in the Munster 4th of July Parade Parent to Parent Night Tuesday, July 14th 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. in the Solar Room (access on the north side of the building through the gym doors, under the canopy) Ask questions and discover why a Catholic education at St. Thomas More School may be the best option to secure educational success for your child! St. Thomas More School remains committed to a curriculum of outstanding academics, small class sizes, spiritual and intellectual development, the arts and athletics. Don’t miss it! Registration closes soon! St. Thomas More School offers half or full day Preschool•Pre-K • Kindergarten Grades 1 to 8 Questions? Contact Pam Pasyk at (219) 836-9151, #309 or ppasyk@stm-school.com. Page 9 Summer days spent marching around the St. Thomas More campus prepared the St. Thomas More School Band, under the direction of Mr. Rick Mlynarski, for the annual Town of Munster Independence Day Parade, held on July 4th. STMS has been a regular feature in this town event for years and, as usual, our students did not disappoint the crowds, lining Calumet Avenue and Ridge Road, with another great performance. Thanks to all who participated and to all those spectators who showed their support for our band. Great job kids! Join us in celebrating a Pastoral Care Ministry Multi-Cultural Catholic Mass! Sick, Homebound & Hospitalized The Pastoral Care Ministry is composed of compassionate lay ministers whose primary function is to distribute the Eucharist to parishioners, temporarily or permanently unable to attend Mass. Ministers make home visits and those hospitalized at Community Hospital. If you or a loved one are open to visits by Pastoral Care, contact Deacon Dave Kapala, Coordinator at (219) 836-8610, ext. 313 or dkapala@stm-church.com. The Migrant Ministry of St. Thomas More Peace and Social Justice Commission invite all parishioners to join us in celebrating the Eucharist with the migrant farm workers community. This Mass is sponsored by St. Thomas More, St. John the Evangelist and Holy Name Church in Cedar Lake. There will be a potluck dinner after the Mass. Gabriel Project With the warmer weather we have some new requests: • Strollers — for walks with new babies • Teething rings, baby bottles/brushes and rattles • Hygiene Items —baby wash & baby shampoo • Diapers — Newborn to Size 4 pull-ups Your help is appreciated. Call Marilyn at (219) 515-2901 to donate. Please continue to pray for our moms and their babies. • We are expecting 150-200 people to attend this Mass from the migrant workers community as well as our sister parishes involved in this ministry. • Please bring a lawn chair for your own use during Mass. • Please bring a side dish, salad or desert to share, if you plan to attend the potluck dinner after Mass. Event: Date: Time: Multi-Cultural Catholic Mass Sunday, August 2, 2015 4:00 p.m. Set up for Mass and dinner is at 2:30 p.m. Potluck dinner to follow after Mass Place: Herr Farm near Lowell, IN Celebrant: Bishop Donald Hying Thank You Parishioners! We would like to thank all who donated pencils, prizes and games to be used in the Children’s Games tent during the STM Fun Days Festival. With your help the tent was a success! Linda and Holly Harle STM Career Networking Group If you would like to help set-up for the Mass and dinner, we will meet at the south parking lot of STM and leave at 1:30 p.m. sharp to travel to Herr Farm together. Maps to the Herr Farm are available at the Parish Office and tables at all church entrances. All parishioners are invited to come! 80% of Jobs are Unadvertised 82% of Jobs are found through Networking 15% Found through Search Firms • 10% Found through Want Ads 4% Create Their Own Jobs • 2% Blindly Send Resumes Peace and Social Justice Migrant Ministry Migrant farm workers work long days for little pay. They work hard to make money that will help their families. A great help to them is to spend a minimal amount of money while they are here working. During the week of July 19th- July 26th, we are Next regular meeting: Thursday, July 16, 2015 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Note: Change of venue for July meeting to Munster Library requesting your donations of: Steve Beekman Combs Canned Fruit Bath Soap Q-Tips Canned Meat Shampoo Band-Aides Peanut Butter Toothbrushes Dish Soap Canned Beans Toothpaste Pasta Disposable Razors Laundry Detergent Bleach Pasta Sauce Deodorant Toilet Paper Cooking Oil Mouthwash Paper Towels Rice Shaving Cream Development Director—Food Bank of NWI Topic of Discussion: Job Searches Where: Munster Public Library 8701 Calumet Avenue • Munster, IN When: The 3rd Thursday of Every Month Time: 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Email: STMCareerGroup@gmail.com Regular Meetings are Free! Open to All! For those who are unemployed (in transition), new to the job market, employed but changing careers or those who can offer employment opportunities through their current professional connections. Have your cover letter, resume or thank you note critiqued by a professional. These items will be distributed after the Migrant Mass sponsored by St. Thomas More, St. John the Evangelist, and Holy Name Parishes on Sunday, August 2, 2015. All items can be deposited in the box labeled Migrant Ministry at the main church vestibule or during weekdays by the parish office. Kindly label your bags “ Migrant Ministry”. Thank you! Page 10 St. Vincent de Paul Society Senior Citizens God’s light and life are shown to us during these summer months of sunshine. As we enjoy his light and the wondrous beauty he has given us, let us think of those who are unable to join us. Some persons around us cannot reflect upon the beauty that has been bestowed upon them because they are overwhelmed. It may be because of bills or the inability to feed their families. Thus, we are encouraging you to share some of your bounty to ease their load. Please consider donating some food to our pantry so that all can enjoy this beautiful season! If you are a current (dues paid) member of the Senior Citizen group, then be sure to attend the annual Senior Citizen Picnic on Wednesday, July 15th 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. in the Cafeteria (note: location change) Would you like to share a dish? We need accompaniments to our main meal of Pulled BBQ Pork. Last name beginning with: A to K — Bring a Dessert L to Z — Bring a Side Dish Our pantry needs currently include the following: Soup Pasta Sauce Canned Pasta Tomato Products Canned Meats Fruit Boxed Potatoes Rice, Pork and Beans Meal Helpers Snacks Shampoo Bar Soap Dish Soap Toilet Paper Toothpaste Laundry Detergent This is a great time to invite a friend to join you! Share the fun of our group! DCCW Quarterly Meeting All women of the parish are invited to the next quarterly meeting of the Thanks so much for your ongoing willingness to help our neighbors! You bring a smile to their faces! Diocesan Council of Catholic Women to be held on Wednesday, July 15th at 10:00 a.m. Coming in August… in the St. Thomas More Solar Room. Please join us by making a reservation no later than Monday, July 13th. Contact Ruth at (219) 836-5387 to reserve your spot. Evening Scripture Study Adult Evening Scripture Study will begin on Thursday, August 20th from 6:30 p.m.-November 19th. The Diocesan Council of Catholic Women is part of the national organization that speaks for your Catholic values and supports, empowers and educates all Catholic women in spirituality, leadership and service. Become part of this important group by joining us at our July 15th meeting. Holy Name Society Our next meeting will take place on Monday, August 17th at 7:00 p.m. in the Solar Room. Marriage Encounter Weekend “Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them out two by two…” Discern how God has sent you and your spouse by participating in the next Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend on August 7-9, 2015 or October 16-18, 2015 or December 11-13, 2015, all in Elk Grove Village, IL. Early registration is highly recommended. For reservations/information, call Jim & Kris at (630) 577-0778 or contact us through http://wwme-chicagoland.org. You Did It for Me Sarah* had developed a prescription drug addiction, and when her grandchildren stopped returning her calls, she felt she had nothing else to live for. After surviving a suicide attempt, her pastor recommended seeking help at a Catholic Charities Counseling Program. They helped her set up a regular medication schedule, join a support group, and rebuild some of the relationships that had been hurt over the years. Now, she only has a monthly check-in appointment and feels like her life is on the right track. Sarah is not alone: Last year, nearly 20,000 seniors came to Catholic Charities agencies for assistance with counseling or mental health services. To learn more, please visit www.CatholicCharitiesUSA.org Page 11 Save the Date! Don’t miss this year’s fun parish event. Sunday, August 30th Watch the bulletin for more details coming soon! PARISH PICNIC Nursery Help Needed for Fall The St. Thomas More Nursery, operational from September through May each year during the 10:00 a.m. Sunday Mass, is in need of adult and high school volunteers to assist in the nursery this fall. If you can help this fall, please contact Kaaren Mashura at (219) 836-5079 or kaarenann@aol.com. Anniversary of Fatima Little Flowers Girls’ Club Praying for Our Country Are you interested in seeing your daughter grow in Mercy? Courage? Joy? Then the Little Flowers Girls’ Club may be what you’re looking for! We have a club for any Catholic girl in Kindergarten through 8th Grade who likes to have fun while learning about God and the Saints. We’ll meet once a month, on the 2nd Friday of the month during the school year. At each meeting the girls will complete activities to help them learn about a virtue and a saint. Want to learn more? Please join us for a Monday, July 13th —7:00 - 8:00 p.m.. Special devotions will be held at the Carmelite Monastery, 1628 Ridge Road in Munster, beginning with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary, Benediction, Hymns, and outdoor candlelight procession. Sponsored by Gary Diocese-Blue Army of Our Lady of Fatima. Catholic Charities Position Open Parent Meeting on July 31st at 7:00 pm. LCSW or LMHC Therapist Carmelite Monastery• 1628 Ridge Road • Munster The meeting will be held in the Monastery basement (located east of the chapel). For more information, please contact: littleflowersmunster@gmail.com Catholic Charities is seeking a contract therapist to provide counseling in our Hammond office and at our schools. For more information, please contact Anthony Panozzo @ (219) 844-4883. Young Adult Summer Discernment St. John Bosco Clothing Give-Away The Sisters of St. Francis of Perpetual Adoration will be hosting a Young Adult Summer Discernment Retreat beginning on Friday, July 17th at 7:30 p.m. and ending on Sunday, July 19th at 1:00 p.m. for women considering a vocation to religious life. For more information or to register, please contact Sr. Lois at srloisdelee@gmail.com. Saturday, July 25th at St. John Bosco, 171st Street & Columbia Avenue in Hammond. Hours are 9:00 a.m-12:00 Noon. Donations of household items and clothing in good condition will be accepted at the Parish Office, 1247-171st Place, between the hours of 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Monday thru Thursday. Call (219) 844-9027 for more info. Proceeds will help SJB teens attend the National Conference of Catholic Youth in November. Faith & Family at the Ballpark Presented by St. Mary of the Lake in Gary. All parishioners in the Diocese are invited to a Faith & Family Night at the Oil City Stadium in Whiting, 1700 119th Street on Saturday, July 18th. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are only $10.00 each (NWIOILMEN.com). Pregame concert and reflection with special guest speaker. For info or tickets, call (219) 771-5881. Journal Writing for Spiritual Growth Join this workshop, hosted by Sister Joyce Diltz, PHJC at the Bethany Retreat House Saturday July 18th from 9:30 a.m.to 3:30 p.m. To register go to www.bethanyretreathouse.org or call 219-3908-5047. Registration deadline: July 10. Notre Dame Sports Night 2015 The Notre Dame Club of Northwest Indiana will sponsor Sports Night 2015 on Tuesday, July 21 at Villa Cesare, 900 Eagle Ridge Drive in Schererville. Doors open at 5:45 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6:15 p.m. Guest speaker will be Mike Elston, University of Notre Dame football recruiting coordinator and linebackers coach. Cost is $30 for adults/$13 for children (ages 411). The evening includes raffles which benefit ND student scholarships. Order tickets online at www.nwidomers.com or by calling Harry at (708) 704-2424 or Katie at (219) 902-6598. Rummage Sale at St. Mary—Griffith Friday & Saturday, July 24 & 25 at St. Mary’s Hildebrandt Hall, 525 N. Broad Street in Griffith from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. To donate items, please drop off at St. Mary's Hall on Wednesday, July 22 or Thursday, July 23 between 9:00 a.m. & 8:00 p.m. or call Rose Marie at (219) 836-8779 to arrange a pick up. Tax receipts will be given. Sponsored by Gary Diocese-Blue Army. Forgiveness: The Path Inward Retreat The Sisters of Providence of Saint Mary-of-the-Woods are inviting people of all faith traditions to “Forgiveness: The Path Inward,” scheduled from 7:00 p.m. on Friday July 31st to 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 2nd to explore the gift of forgiveness. Sharing in small groups will be available for those who wish. The retreat will be co-facilitated by Sisters Jan Craven and Paula Damiano and will take place in Owens Hall. Registration deadline is July 24th. For information or to register, call (812) 535-2952 or visit www. ProvCenter.org. South Shore Summer Music Festival The Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra is holding a FREE concert at 7:30 p.m. on July 31st at The Pavilion at Wolf Lake, 2324 Calumet Avenue in Hammond. Bring your blankets, chairs, and picnic baskets to enjoy great music in a beautiful setting. Call (219) 937-7942 for more information. Note: Rain location: Calumet College Gym, 2400 New York Avenue in Whiting. Marian Devotions Join St. Michael the Archangel Church, 1 Wilhelm Street in Schererville for Marian Devotions every other Sunday at dusk from June 14th-October 18th at the Our Lady of Lourdes Shrine (located on the east side of the cemetery). Mass in the Polish Language A Polish Mass will be celebrated every Saturday at 6:00 p.m. CST at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 406 E. Washington St. in Knox, IN. This is a unique Mass option for those visiting Bass Lake and Tippecanoe State Park. Mass is usually celebrated by a Salvatorian priest from Merrillville. For info call: (574) 772-4134. Page 12