ST. ELIZABETH SETON CHURCH Founded in 1987

St. Elizabeth Seton Parishioners! Happy 25th Anniversary!

OUR MISSION STATEMENT

“We the heartfelt people

of Saint Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church,

are empowered by the Spirit

to build Christian Community

through worship, education, and service,

and to bring the love

of our Creator and Redeemer

to the suffering and deprived.”

THIS WEEKEND, WE WELCOME OUR FORMER VICAR (and my former boss), Bishop John Gorman, to celebrate our 25th Anniversary Mass with us. Bishop Gorman graciously agreed to take Cardinal George’s place this weekend because the Cardinal and the other non-retired Illinois bishops are in Rome meeting with Pope Benedict XVI.

I think it’s very fitting that Bishop Gorman is here to preside at our 25th Anniversary Mass, because he was instrumental in the forming of St. Elizabeth Seton, and for many years, as our Vicar, Bishop Gorman helped Fr. O’Mara, Fr. McBrady, and the priests and staff, to build St. Elizabeth Seton into the great parish that it is.

In the spring of 1986, when I was an associate pastor at St. Michael’s and then-Monsignor Gorman was my boss, I remember that one afternoon he came to my room and asked if I’d like to go to a meeting over at St. Julie’s. When I asked him what was going on, he said that Fr. Bill Devine, the pastor of St. Julie’s, felt that St. Julie’s had grown so big and so fast that another parish needed to be formed to the west, which would take up the western section of St. Julie’s, and the southern section of St. Michael’s. Msgr. Gorman made the comment that he wasn’t sure there were enough people “over there” to warrant the start of another parish, but added, “why don’t we take a ride over to St. Julie’s and see what they have to say?”

At that meeting were a couple priests from the Archdiocese as well as the pastors from the area, and in short order Fr. Devine presented some statistics and maps of the area showing that there was indeed the need for another parish. So the next hour or so was spent poring over maps to determine where the parish buildings would be located, and what the parish boundaries might look like.

That meeting was the true birth of what became St. Elizabeth Seton. The following autumn Fr. O’Mara applied for the first pastorate of this new parish. In December Cardinal Bernardin accepted Fr. O’Mara’s application and named him pastor, and shortly after, Fr. O’Mara designated February 14, 1987 as the founding date of the new parish.

So I offer a sincere thanks to Bishop Gorman for joining this weekend, and a special thank you to all the priests, staff, and parishioners who have ministered in Jesus’ name for the past twenty-five years. Your ministry has made St. Elizabeth Seton one of the premier parishes of the Archdiocese.

May God bless you,

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME FEBRUARY 12, 2012 SharingsSharingsSharings

From Father Rich Homa

Page Four SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME February 12, 2012

Sunday Reflections

for Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

Feb. 19, 2012

God is so endlessly inventive that not even so great an event as Israel's exodus from Egypt was going to be God's final word — or deed — in Israel's life. Freedom from physical slavery was only the prelude to the freedom God wanted all creation to have from sin and death.

FOCUS: THE REAL AGENDA — FORGIVENESS OF SINS

When Jesus came preaching, teaching, heal-ing, and exorcising, the response was amaze-ment and wonder. He was a "crowd magnet," as we see in next week's Gospel. When Jesus showed up, it was standing room only. What would be the next miracle? So when the para-lytic came down, there might even have been a little "ho-hum" in the air. "Didn't He do some-thing along these lines that night outside Simon's mother-in-law's house?" But healing the body and casting out demons were only the

first steps in the new creation God had in mind. The next step went to the heart of the matter — salvation. "Child, your sins are forgiven." Alarms went off, at least in the heads of some of the legal experts present. "Did He just say?... No, not possible.... Only God can...." But Jesus, who really could hear people thinking, had no trouble saying it again: "That you may know the Son of Man has the authority to forgive sins on earth..." then He turned to the paralytic: "Get up and go." And the man got up and went. All the other things Jesus had been doing were accept-able, except when He did them on a Sabbath, for this was crossing a clearly defined line in the law of Moses. Forgiving sin? Only God could do that. Yes, that was the point. And still is. So don't let past actions — even God's, much less yours — lock you in or keep God out. God re-mains at work in Jesus offering forgiveness, reconciliation, at-one-ment to all who realize they need it. How do you feel when you hear Jesus say, "Your sins are forgiven"?

Readings for the Week February 13th-February 18th Mon.: Jas 1:1-11; Mk 8:11-13 Tues.: Jas 1:12-18; Mk 8:14-21 Wed.: Jas 1:19-27; Mk 8:22-26 Thurs.: Jas 2:1-9; Mk 8:27-33 Fri.: Jas 2:14-24, 26; Mk 8:34-9:1 Sat.: Jas 3:1-10; Mk 9:2-13

REFLECTION

It is I who wipe out, for my own sake, your offenses (Isaiah 43:18-19, 21-22, 24b-25). FIRST READING

The people of Israel were living in exile and wondered whether God's punishment would endure forever. Isaiah responded that God did not want them to dwell upon the things of the past (their sins). God was establishing something radically new, an era of pardon and mercy. He was transforming the desert of

their broken hearts into a fertile place where His love would bloom. God was not doing this because the people of Israel deserved it, but rather for the sake of His own name. It was God Himself who would wipe out their sins, for He alone could renew His people's hearts and minds.

This is a very unusual miracle story. There are usually four elements: a description of the situation, an appeal for help, an intervention on the part of Jesus, and a reaction from the people who witnessed the miracle. We hear these four elements when we hear the de-scription of the paralytic being brought into the room where Jesus was. Being lowered through the roof as a type of appeal. Then

Jesus forgave his sins. Finally, the scribes and Pharisees reject what Jesus had done. As far as Jesus was concerned, He was fin-ished when He forgave the man his sins. He had healed him in the most important way, for He had let him experience God's love and mercy in a profound manner. This is what He had come to do.

The Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins (Mark 2:1-12). GOSPEL

St. Paul had been accused of vacillation. He had told the Corinthians that he would visit them, and then did not. He did this for their sake. He wanted to wait a bit before visiting them so that they might have a chance to change their ways (for there were serious problems among them). Paul speaks of our

Lord being constant in His ways. Paul was an envoy of Christ, so there could be no doubt or weakness in his position. He calls the Holy Spirit the first installment on God's promises. The Holy Spirit, God's love personified, al-lows us to begin to experience the love of heaven already here on earth.

SECOND READING Jesus was not yes or no, but yes has been in Him (2 Corinthians 1:18-22).

STEWARDSHIP

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Page Five

February 12, 2012

FEBRUARY 5, 2012: $25,630.21

KIDS COLLECTION: $51.21

Thank you for your generosity.

Sat., Feb. 11th (5pm) Shirley Lelo Sun., Feb. 12th (7:15am) Rita Zarnecki; Philip Noll (8:30am) John Nolan; Patricia Butler; Mary Buffer; Stella Sanza; Zachary Boersma (10am) Therese Linehan; John A. Geary; Joseph Konieczny; Nancy Carlson; Art O’Connor; Michael Knizner (11:30am) Intentions of Parishioners of St. Elizabeth Seton Church Mon., Feb. 13th (9am) Lucien Bessette; Ronald Klein; Jack Squires Tues., Feb. 14th (9am) Clara McMullen; Camille Rosiak; John Nolan; Antonio Legaspi; James Paul Wed., Feb. 15th (9am) Evelyn Racine Thurs., Feb. 16th (9am) Robert and Cecilia Zmuda Fri., Feb. 17th (9am) Special Intention for all Vocations Sat., Feb. 18th (5pm) Robert Morgan; Mary Dean; Helen Janas; Julia Kovach Sun., Feb. 19th (7:15am) John Nolan (8:30am) Harriet Zdrubecky; Sophie Petrick; Ruthmary Hausmann Colton (10am) Anthony Loffredo; Arthur O’Connor; Larry Weishaar; Karen Karnia; Michael Knizner; Yoland Politano (11:30am) Kenneth Schomers; Cecilia Zmuda; Donald D’Ercole; Robert Blonski

MASS INTENTIONS

Thomas and Roberta Mayer (Child: Emily Mayer) James and Valerie Montelpasse

WELCOME

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

2011 TAX LETTERS ARE READY The end-of-the-year tax letters have been

printed. Parishioners can pick them up or we can mail them to you. Please call the parish

office at 708-403-0101.

Fr. William O’Mara, Sr. Nancy Kennelly,

Fr. Ron Hicks, Fr. Larry McBrady

and Fr. Brian Welter… Are just a few of St. Elizabeth Seton’s former clergy that have responded yes to attending the 25th Anniversary Dinner Dance set for Saturday, Feb. 18th at the Orland Chateau. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime opportunity (we will only have our 25th once!) to mingle with former clergy and to have a great time at this wonderful planned event! Tickets are available in the parish office. P.S. Reserve a table for family and or friends, as part of the main course you get filet mignon and chicken, open bar begins at 6:30pm before the dinner and after din-ner, live music with a four piece quartet and a DJ, dancing and other planned surprises. Where can you go for $49 a person (no taxing or tipping) and get all that? Get a group together (you won’t have to cook or clean the house)

……...THE FUN AWAITS YOU!!! Get your tickets today or call Patrice for reservations 708-532-0914.

Get Excited!!!!!!!

We remember the sick, infirm, and those recommended to our prayers, that they may experience the healing power of Christ: Anna Talley Homer (Gene) Talley Colleen Lueder Sarah Kischkel Kenneth Dragoeitch Tony Brafman Phyllis Minnick Alice McDonald Brenda Lane Abbey Skarbek Delfina Miramontes Diane Krauss Adele Ulaszek Josephine Tarentino Alaina TerMeer Rev. Damian Charboneau And for our deceased: Robert Zmuda Veronica Booth Martin Bilecki Andrew Gretchokoff Brian Gerard Driscoll ”Heavenly Father, accept the prayers which we offer for them.”

PLEASE PRAY FOR

Congratulations to these parents on the baptism of their child on 2-5-12: Aubrey Rose, child of Phillip and Elizabeth Piel

BAPTISMS

25TH JUBILEE CELEBRA25TH JUBILEE CELEBRA25TH JUBILEE CELEBRATION MASSTION MASSTION MASS Sunday, February 12th

at the 11:30 am Mass

Join us as we conclude our Jubilee Year at a special liturgy this Sunday!

THIS SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12TH MARKS THE CONCLUSION OF OUR TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY YEAR.

ALL MEMBERS OF ANY OF OUR MINISTRIES ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN A SPECIAL PROCESSION THIS SUNDAY,

AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE 11:30AM MASS.

Our Special Commemorative Candles that have been on display in our Narthex during our Jubilee year will be placed in the Sanctuary. We invite all members of Music, Religious Education, Athletics, Cardinal Joseph Bernardin School, Liturgy, Branches, Seniors of Seton, Women’s Club, Men’s Club, and Outreach Ministries (St. Elizabeth Seton Social Action Ministry, HOPE Employment Ministry, Newborns In Need, St. Vincent DePaul Society, Rosary Group, Scripture Study, Sacred Space, Centering Prayer, Seton Sowers, Moms and Tots) to participate in a special “sending forth blessing” at the conclusion of Mass.

Let’s Celebrate! HOSPITALITY AFTER ALL THE MASSES IN THE CHURCH HALL.

OUR MISSION STATEMENT “We, the heartfelt people of St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church, are empowered by the Spirit

to build Christian community through worship, education and service and to bring the love of our Creator and Redeemer to the suffering and deprived.”

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME February 12, 2012 Page Six

CCCHANGESHANGESHANGES INININ THETHETHE N N NEWEWEW R R ROMANOMANOMAN M M MISSALISSALISSAL How have these changes affected you?

On the First Sunday of Advent, Nov. 27, 2011, the Catholic Church implemented changes to the new Roman Missal. We welcome your feedback. A suggestion box can be found on the counter in the Narthex. Please use the lines below, include your own text, or email cnolan@steseton.com. We plan to share your comments with the Archdiocese of Chicago.

St. Elizabeth Seton Parish congratulates Rev. William O’Mara

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT Rev. William O'Mara, Marian Catholic High School Chaplain, has been named to the Marian Catholic High School Hall of Fame for Lifetime Achievement and will be honored at a dinner and awards ceremony on February 16, 2012 at Olympia Fields Country Club. The Hall of Fame Awards honor alumni, parents, faculty and friends of Marian Catholic who have distinguished themselves in their chosen field and have exemplified the Dominican traditions of unselfish service to others. Established in 1994 to honor those graduates and friends of Marian who have embodied and upheld the school's motto “teaching scholars with a soul," this year’s class of inductees recognizes those who have personified the Marian spirit and celebrates their contributions to their respective fields, communities, church, or within the Marian Catholic community. For further information or to reserve tickets for the February 16th Hall of Fame ceremony, please contact Patricia Trebe, Alumni Programs Coordinator at 708-756-9405.

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Page Seven February 12, 2012

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME February 12, 2012 Page Eight

HELPING DIVORCED CATHOLICS FIND HEALINGHELPING DIVORCED CATHOLICS FIND HEALING First in a twoFirst in a two--part series “Divorced Catholic in the Church”part series “Divorced Catholic in the Church”

Divorce is a reality of our day. Divorce is a reality of our day.

It is never an easy thing and oftenIt is never an easy thing and often

the pain left over from a divorcethe pain left over from a divorce

lasts a long time and hurts morelasts a long time and hurts more

than just the couple involved.than just the couple involved.

In the Archdiocese of Chicago,In the Archdiocese of Chicago,

the Office for Family Ministriesthe Office for Family Ministries

reaches out to divorced Catholicsreaches out to divorced Catholics

on a daily basis and offerson a daily basis and offers

opportunities for healing...opportunities for healing...

CATHOLIC NEW WORLD: Divorce ministry has been around for a while in the Archdiocese. ELSIE RADTKE: Divorce ministry started in the archdiocese with Cardinal John Cody. A group of women in Boston were devastated after their divorces and thought the Church wouldn’t recognize them anymore. Under the direction of Father Jim Young, a Paulist priest, divorce ministry began. So the Catholic Church in Chicago created Phoenix ministry. It thrived. It was in over 150 parishes here in the Archdiocese of Chicago. They came to have annual conferences. Thousands of people would go to these events. That was pretty active in the 1980s and then it started to peter out. I don’t know why. I think needs

were being met and that it was becoming more common in the culture to see divorce and so people were getting help from other areas. The Catholic Church didn’t have to be the only place. A lot of other Christian denominations started having support groups. Many Catholics were embarrassed and would attend support groups far away from their home parish. Some wanted to be less identified in their Catholic community because it is so awkward. When I was hired 15 years ago I was asked to retire the name Phoenix because it needed to be updated. It had become a social forum instead of a spiritual forum or a healing forum. Then we started calling it Ministry to Separated and Divorced. In short order I recognized that if you are separated you have no business coming to a divorce support group

F or more than 15 years, Elsie Radtke has drawn from her own experience of divorce to provide support to many hurting Catholics. Radtke, who is Associate Director of the Office and the Divorce and Annul-ment Support Ministries coordinator, sat down with editor Joyce Duriga to discuss the work of divorce

ministry in the Archdiocese. This is a two-part interview:

” “ because all people are doing there is trying to save themselves. If you are separated you have a responsibility to get help to restore the marriage. Whether that’s therapy, whether that’s a Retrouvaille weekend, whether that’s forgiveness and reconciliation — whatever you needed to do that’s what you needed to be working on rather than talking to people who have made the decision to divorce. So we dropped separated from the title. I then came to realize — because I had been through the annulment process myself and was resistant to that process — that a lot of people had misconceptions about the annulment process and that we needed to have an earlier conversation to educate them on what the process means. For example, your children wouldn’t be illegitimate and it won’t cost $20,000. We knew there were pastoral ways we could help people enter this process because 70 percent of the people who divorce will remarry and less than 10 percent of them are doing so in the Catholic Church. We have a whole lot of people sitting in the pews who are lifetime Catholics but not married in the Church. They are sitting in the back pews not receiving Eucharist, not participating in the family life of faith. CATHOLIC NEW WORLD: How does a parish ministry begin? ELSIE RADTKE: Divorce ministry in parishes usually happens when a pastor or a deacon sees a need either through parishioners or because they’ve had the experience in their own family of origin. They generally will contact this office. The program that we recommend is Divorce and Beyond, which is a 10-week process. People come in and stay for the whole 10 weeks. It’s not something that you come in and out of. In the final class we encourage the group to have an annulment information evening at the parish to educate all of the parishioners about the annulment process, which, is properly called a declaration of nullity. The tribunal is very insistent — and right — that we call it a declaration of nullity. I see the two hand in hand. Divorce ministry and the annulment support ministry I see as a uniquely Catholic outreach. The two need to work together. Healing will come through being with people who are going through

divorce in the support groups. They then enter into the Church process of “Why did you marry this person in the first place?” That’s the question and people don’t like to go there, so we have to help them. CATHOLIC NEW WORLD: Why does it matter that we call it a declaration of nullity? ELSIE RADTKE: Because that’s what it is. An annulment doesn’t mean the same thing. A declaration of nullity means that the marriage lacked some essential component. The Church is not saying “This never existed,” which is what annulment implies. An annulment is kind of like erasing something. A declaration of nullity is a truth that existed when the couple said, “I do.” When the couple said “I do,” they meant for it to be “I do,” they intended it to be “I do” on the surface. But underneath, when the marriage breaks down, we often find some essential element was missing. Perhaps she was pregnant and they were getting married because they felt that was the right thing to do. That’s not freedom to marry. That has a pre-existing condition. They can try and do the right thing but it may not have enough of the elements of what a sacramental marriage is. Another example is when people marry “as long as we both shall love.” Then they fall out of love because somebody or something else comes along and grabs their attention and they don’t love the person they married anymore. That’s not what commitment is. Commitment is when you are there forever. CATHOLIC NEW WORLD: Some people feel that an annulment makes the children illegitimate. ELSIE RADTKE: The children are legal because of the state. We are a respect life Church. We respect life whenever it comes. The protection of the children and the legitimacy of the children is determined by the state. It’s that simple. The Church doesn’t get into that conversation at all. The children are a result of the love of the parents. The children have to be nurtured, educated and cared for. That’s a requirement of marriage.

(Next week Part 2)

I then came to realize — because I had been through the annulment process myself and was resistant to that process — that a lot of people had misconceptions about the annulment

process and that we needed to have an earlier conversation to educate them on what the process means. For example, your children wouldn’t be illegitimate and it won’t cost $20,000.

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Page Nine February 12, 2012

Page Ten SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME February 12, 2012

Dear Brothers and Sister in Christ,

I write to you concerning a most serious matter that negatively impacts the Church in the United States directly, and that strikes at the fundamental right to religious liberty for all citizens of any faith.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced on January 20 that almost all employers, including Catholic employers, will be forced to offer their employees health coverage that includes sterilization, abortion-inducing drugs, and contraception. Almost all health insurers will be forced to include those "services" in the health policies they write. And almost all individuals will be forced to buy that coverage as part of their policies.

In so ruling, the Administration has seemingly ignored the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States, denying to Catholics our Nation's first and most fundamental freedom, that of religious liberty. As a result, unless the rule is overturned, we Catholics must be prepared either to violate our consciences, or to drop health coverage for our employees (and suffer the penalties for doing so). The Administration's sole concession was to give our institutions one year to comply.

We cannot — we will not — comply with this unjust law. People of faith cannot be made second class citizens because of their religious beliefs. We are already joined by our brothers and sisters of all faiths and many others of good will in this important effort to regain our religious freedom. Our parents and grandparents did not come to these shores to help build America's cities and towns, its infrastructures and institutions, its enterprises and culture, only to have their posterity stripped of their God given rights. All that has been built up over so many years in our Catholic institutions should not be taken away by the stroke of an administrator's pen. This order reduces the Church to a private club, destroying her public mission in society. In generations past, the Church has always been able to count on the faithful to stand up and protect her sacred rights and duties. I hope and trust she can count on this generation of Catholics to do the same.

Therefore, I would ask of you two things. First, as a community of faith we must commit ourselves to prayer and fasting that wisdom and justice may prevail, and religious liberty may be restored. Without God, we can do nothing; with God, nothing is impossible. Second, I would also recommend visiting www.usccb.org/conscience to learn more about this severe assault on religious liberty, and how to contact Congress in support of legislation that would reverse the Administration's decision.

A letter similar to this is being sent to their people by diocesan bishops around the country. I thank you for your consideration of this unprecedented challenge to religious liberty. You and your families are in my prayers; please keep me in yours.

Sincerely yours in Christ, Francis Cardinal George, O.M.I. Archbishop of Chicago

Most Reverend Francis Kane Most Reverend John Manz Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago

Most Reverend Joseph Perry Most Reverend George Rassas Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago

Most Reverend Alberto Rojas Most Reverend Andrew Wypych Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago

February 5, 2012

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Page Eleven February 12, 2012

IN TODAY’S SECOND READING, PAUL’S INSTRUCTIONS ARE BRIEF BUT POWERFUL. “...whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.” Have you ever thought of a life in ministry devoted to the Lord? For information about the priesthood contact Fr. Brian Welter at bwelter@archchicago.org or call 312-534-8298 or visit www.ChicagoPriest.com. For information on religious life contact Sr. Elyse Ramirez, OP at eramirez@archchicago.org, or call 312-534-5240, and for the Permanent Diaconate Program, call Deacon Bob Puhala at 847-837-4562 or email bpuhala@usml.edu.

VOCATION CROSS PARTICIPANT:

Wednesday, Feb. 15th Peg DeWilkins

PLEASE HELP! VOCATION CROSS

PARTICIPANTS ARE NEEDED! The Vocation Cross is presented on Wednesday at the 9am Mass. Participants pray daily for one week

and return the cross on Tuesday for the next participant. To sign up, please call 708-403-0101.

Please join in prayer… PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, graciously hear our prayers. Give us generous hearts to respond to Your call in our lives. Lift up courageous men and women willing to follow after Your Heart as priests, sisters and brothers. Help parents and teachers to share the faith and to encourage young people to explore religious vocations. Guide all people, Lord, in Your ways of compassion, truth and peace, that we may find happiness in fulfilling our vocations.

Parish Vocation News

A reflection

from SACRED SPACE,

the prayer book

for 2012

Reflection for February 12th-18th

Isn’t there a certain springtime in all prayer? We tend to breathe easier with the passing of win-ter and its coldness. The time we spend in prayer refreshes both our bodies and our spirits. While all times and seasons are God’s and we can never limit God’s working, yet springtime can enliven us with the youthfulness and newness of our Creator God each day. Spring does not always come easily. For the trees which prepare to blossom afresh, there is pain for the wood as the bud breaks through. Some-times too there is a bud that doesn’t make it. Prayer engages us to deepen our welcome and our openness to God. That is its task. Sometimes this will be easy: at other times it will painfully challenge us. Doesn’t all challenge in the name of love have its own special sweet bitterness? There is a letting go of something we treasure in order to make space for something better. Any openness to love is openness to the immense blessing of the Creator God. Like the spring our prayer brings a certain gentleness and warmth to us, the gentleness and warmth of God. When we pray we are being nour-ished from within. The sap of divine life runs freely through us and enables to cope more generously with the demands of loving.

Your dried palms will be accepted in the Church Narthex until Monday, Feb. 20th, to be used for ashes on Ash Wednesday.

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME February 12, 2012 Page Twelve

I'd Like to Say: St. Valentine Is More Than Cards and Candy Hearts

Introduce children you love to the real saints...

F OR LAST VALENTINE'S DAY, a magazine I'll call Decadence Digest asked me to write an article about ultra-expensive Valentine presents: gift baskets of $500 perfume, chocolate to die for, cruises to Bali—that sort of thing. The editor sug-

gested I start with a brief history of Valentine's Day, so I wrote a couple of paragraphs about the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia (celebrated mid-February), and how the Church managed to tame the wilder aspects of that celebration by linking it to the adjacent feast of St. Valentine.

I POINTED OUT THAT THE FEBRUARY 14 feast actually commemorated two Valentines: the first a beloved Christian priest rounded up in Claudius the

Goth's persecution (269 A.D.) and beheaded outside Rome; the other a bishop of Terni, about 60 miles from Rome, beheaded in another purge a few years later. (Partly because of this confusion, the Valentine commemorations were dropped from the official Church calendar of universally celebrated feasts about 25 years ago, although local churches can still choose to observe them.) Legends attribute affectionate letters from prison to both Valentines. A few days after I handed in the article, the editor called to tell me to shorten the introduction. "We're trying to get people in a romantic mood," she said, "so leave out most of the statistics (sic) about the history. We didn't think that talking about people being beheaded was very romantic." More than Hearts and Flowers I mention the incident not to complain about editors or about that particular magazine but to point out what kids are up against when it comes to learning about their ancestors in the faith. The lives of the saints are an important part of our Catholic heritage; their stories tell us who we are and how we're expected to behave. That's not how it works out, though, if you leave it to chance. Popular culture either ignores saints or debases their memory. Francis of Assisi, Thomas à Becket and Thomas More are the only ones I've seen on film in my lifetime. I can't speak for television (we use our set primarily as a video monitor), but I do know you can count on two hands and a foot the worthwhile books about saints published by secular publishing houses during that time. Eliminate the books on Francis and you're down to a set of toes! The public schools, where the vast majority of our children are educated, are prohibited by law from teaching about saints, and while a good religion program will integrate saints into the curriculum—traditionally during October in preparation for the November 1 Feast of All Saints—classroom work can only go so far. Particularly in Religious Education classes, time

constraints limit the focus mainly to doctrinal basics. Fine-tuning has to be done at home. That's not necessarily a handicap. Formal instruction is necessary—the more challenging, the better. Children also learn by listening at the dinner table. The important thing is that children hear it both places. Meet the Friends of Jesus Both my husband and I were raised in an era when heaven was organized according to the principles of subsidiarity, with God in charge of the big picture and saints handling the details, which included everything from a happy death to recovery from strep throat. We accumulated holy cards describing saints' specialties the way our son Daniel collects baseball cards, and along the way we picked up lots of stories. When we became parents ourselves, a little editing of the loopier folklore elements gave us an extensive repertoire of "friends of Jesus" to share with our two boys. We emphasize the saints' obedience to the call of the Lord rather than the signs and wonders attached to their names, although we've kept some of the folklore, labeling it as such. As one of our friends told his children about Bible stories, "Some stories are true on the outside, some on the inside." We're in the older generation of parents, though. The parents of most of my children's friends are 10-15 years younger than we are. This means they grew up in those turbulent, corrective years after Vatican II, when the saints were lost for a while as we tried to figure out as a Church what was really important. This generation isn't necessarily on a first-name basis with too many saints.

Surround Your Children With Saints For such parents, who have to start from scratch, here are some ideas for rescuing Valentine from the candy counter and Patrick from behind the bar. It boils down to two things: Teach early, teach often. Begin by giving children a patron saint. Kids love hearing stories about what their name means and who they're named after.

If you're an expectant parent, find a collection of lives of the saints and cross-check the names you've picked for kid-friendliness. This doesn't mean saints who had sweet personalities but saints who come with a fair amount of documentation, a feast day, and an image recognizable in statuary, icon or other artwork. If you go for an Old Testament name, you'll forgo the feast day, but being in the Bible makes up for it. You can also designate your own day for celebrating the feast of St. Noah. If you've already gone and named your daughter Heather, tell her she can be the first St. Heather. Then choose a family patron, perhaps after reading several saint stories during the weeks when you're not doing activities related to Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter. If your family can't reach a consensus on a family saint, choose two. Come to think of it, choosing a family saint is a good idea even if you have a tableful of big-league saint names. Surround growing children with inspiration and information. In your decor, include icons, statues, framed pictures and a calendar with saints' feasts noted (even if you have to add them yourself). Supply books as well. Having stuff around is the most effective teaching tool imaginable. Our boys had great fun taking turns ripping off the calendar page from our Saint-of-the-Day calendar. And one afternoon last winter I came upon Peter, then in third grade, sprawled on the landing poring over his dad's old Dictionary of the Bible. "I'm looking up Jehovah," he said. "What does this mean, 'cf. God'?"

This question was a direct result of viewing Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, during which Harrison Ford bypasses a deadly booby trap by stepping only on stones with letters that, in Latin, represent the name of God. Peter found the Bible dictionary on our "holy books" bookcase, which is near the outlet in the upstairs hall where the boys plug in the hair dryer. The books are shelved there deliberately, on the theory that we'd trade a unit of hair-drying efficiency for 10 minutes of informal instruction in their Catholic heritage. Along with the Thomas Mertons and Raymond Browns and G. K. Chestertons, the shelves hold collections of saints' lives written for various ages, a couple of Where's Waldo?-style Bible story books and everything religious Tomie de Paola's ever published, including his wonderfully illustrated story of Our Lady of Guadalupe plus his lives of St. Patrick and St. Francis of Assisi. Because he's been through the bookcase so often looking for these books, my eight-year-old knew where to find out about "Jehovah, cf. God." It was months before it struck me, one spring evening, that this is exactly what the saints are supposed to do—lead us to God.

Anne Bingham is a free-lance writer who currently reviews books for Catholic News Service and for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. She has contributed articles and essays to many newspapers and magazines, including Columbia and Catholic Digest.

Fannie May is back andFannie May is back and so is our Women’s Club fundraiser!so is our Women’s Club fundraiser! Fannie May candy is a great way to remember family, friends, teachers and co-workers at Easter. Order candy at a 10% discount, NO SALES TAX and no long lines to stand in! Gift certificates are also available.

Order forms and catalogs are available in the church Narthex. Completed order forms with your name and address printed clearly on the top and checks made out to “SES Women’s Club” need to be turned in by Sunday, Feb. 26, 2012. Candy will be delivered to your home the week of March 12, 2012.

Any questions please call Sue Rosinski at 708-460-2311 or Janie Kokotan-Krauss at 708-633-1697.

The Women’s Club appreciates your support for this fundraiser.

Order forms available in the Narthex. Fine Chocolates Since 1920

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Page Thirteen February 12, 2012

St. Elizabeth Seton Women’s Club

CRAFT ANDCRAFT ANDCRAFT AND VENDOR FAIRVENDOR FAIRVENDOR FAIR Sunday, March 4th 8:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

We are pleased to announce our Craft and Vendor Fair, and invite you to be a part of it! Seeking crafters and vendors of all types!

Exhibitors’ fee is $20 for each eight-foot space. Exhibitors must donate one $20-$25 raffle item.

(Note: If your product retails for more than $25, you may donate cash instead.) Tables of 6 or 8 feet are available for rent. Electrical outlets are available upon request (limited supply). Set-up time is Sunday morning beginning at 7:00 a.m. To reserve a space, please call Lynn Miller at 708-460-6113.

Please detach and return reservation form and fee of $20 per space to guarantee your space.

Please make checks payable to St. Elizabeth Seton Women’s Club and mail to: St. Elizabeth Seton Women’s Club Vendor Fair, 9300 W. 167th St., Orland Hills, IL 60487

Please Print

Name ________________________________________________________________ Phone___________________________________

Address __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Email Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Company Name __________________________________________________________________________________________________

Description of Product ___________________________________________________________________________________________

I am enclosing $ ____________ for ____________ space(s). Check #____________ I understand that St. Elizabeth Seton Church and/or Women’s Club will not be responsible for any injuries or loss or damage to goods.

Signature_______________________________________________________________________ Date____________________________

UPCOMING EVENT

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Page Fifteen

Seniors of Seton S

SAINT OF THE WEEK

OUR LADY OF LOURDES

Patron Saint of Body Ills

ON DECEMBER 8, 1854, POPE PIUS IX PROCLAIMED the dogma of the Immaculate Conception in the apostolic constitution Ineffabilis Deus. A little more than three years later, on February 11, 1858, a young lady appeared to Bernadette Soubirous. This began a series of visions. During the apparition on March 25, the lady identified herself with the words: “I am the Immaculate Conception.” Bernadette was a sickly child of poor parents. Their practice of the Catholic faith was scarcely more than lukewarm. Bernadette could pray the Our Father, the Hail Mary and the Creed. She also knew the prayer of the Miraculous Medal: “O Mary conceived without sin.” During interrogations Bernadette gave an account of what she saw. It was “something white in the shape of a girl.” She used the word aquero, a dialect term meaning “this thing.” It was “a pretty young girl with a rosary over her arm.” Her white robe was encircled by a blue girdle. She wore a white veil. There was a yellow rose on each foot. A rosary was in her hand. Bernadette was also impressed by the fact that the lady did not use the informal form of address (tu), but the polite form (vous). The humble virgin appeared to a humble girl and treated her with dignity. Through that humble girl, Mary revitalized and continues to revitalize the faith of millions of people. People began to flock to Lourdes from other parts of France and from all over the world. In 1862 Church authorities confirmed the authenticity of the apparitions and authorized the cult of Our Lady of Lourdes for the diocese. The Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes became worldwide in 1907. COMMENT Lourdes has become a place of pilgrimage and healing, but even more of faith. Church authorities have recognized over 60 miraculous cures, although there have probably been many more. To people of faith this is not surprising. It is a continuation of Jesus’ healing miracles—now performed at the intercession of his mother. Some would say that the greater miracles are hidden. Many who visit Lourdes return home with renewed faith and a readiness to serve God in their needy brothers and sisters. There still may be people who doubt the apparitions of Lourdes. Perhaps the best that can be said to them are the words that introduce the film Song of Bernadette: “For those who believe in God, no explanation is necessary. For those who do not believe, no explanation is possible.”

February 18th 25th Anniversary Dinner Dance Tables will be set up for the Seniors planning on attending to sit together. Tickets will be on sale after all the Masses for the price of $49 per person.

March 6th — St. Patrick’s Luncheon

Luncheon tickets (catered by Winston’s Market) will be sold at the February meeting for our March 6th St. Patrick’s

meeting. for $8 (corned beef sandwich and bowl of leek soup). Travel film of Ireland will be shown.

March 15th — Morning of Reflection Seniors of Seton are hosting a Morning of Reflection with guest speaker, Fr. Robert Rohrich, CM of Sacred Heart Church. Mass at 9am followed by a Lenten reflection in the Parish Life Center. No charge for session and a hot lunch can be purchased from Winston’s Market for $8 (choice of lemon chicken breast or meatloaf and both include salad, potato, vegetable and roll. Reservations taken at the Feb. and March meetings. All are invited.

March 22nd — A Glimpse of Poland Visit the Polish Museum, which include Polonia stained glass folk costumes, decorated eggs, etc. Lunch will be served at Red Apple with an extensive buffet where you hear Polish spoken by many of the patrons. Also visit St. Hyacinth Basilica and purchase pierogi, homemade sausage and baked goods from “Old Polonia”. All for only $64. Sign up will be at the Feb. meeting.

April 19th — Secret Chicago Sign-up for Secret of Chicago on April 19th for $64 will

take place at our March meeting. New members are always welcome. Call Joyce at 708-

479-0415 for information. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month at 9:30am.

February 12, 2012

Get Your Golden Opportunities Book Today!

Only $20!

Makes a great gift! Only $20!

The Seniors of Seton are providing the best deal in town! Books are avail-able in the parish office. The coupon book offers many favorite local res-taurants offering dis-counts of 50% off or 2-for-1. In addition, great savings at movies, gro-cery stores, sporting events, and much more! Most coupons are valid once a month.

Page Sixteen SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME February 12, 2012

PENTECOST SUNDAY Page Seventeen February 12, 2012 SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

SETON YOUTH PROGRAMSETON YOUTH PROGRAMSETON YOUTH PROGRAM

SOUL SURVIVOR SUNDAY, FEB. 12TH 6:30-8:30PM IN THE CORNERSTONE

MISSION TRIP MEETING WEDNESDAY, FEB. 15TH 6:30PM GYM LOBBY Mandatory Mission Trip meeting to update every-one on our plans, meetings, and fundraisers and to pass our registration forms. For Teen Mission trippers, at least one parent should attend this meeting if possi-ble. Our regular TUF Night will follow the meeting.

OPEN GYM SUNDAY, FEB. 19TH 6:30-8:30PM

TEEN MASS AND SOCIAL SUNDAY, FEB. 26TH 6:30-8:30PM

TEENS UNDERSTANDING FAITH (T.U.F. NIGHT) IN THE TEEN ROOM WEDNESDAYS FROM 6:30-8:30PM

Drop into the Teen Room (inside the gym) for a night of relaxation, conversation, and fun with your friends every Wednesday night from 6:30-8:30pm. Bring homework, games, music, whatever… we may even do some singing! Of course, it wouldn’t be TUF Night without a little B.S. — (Bible Study) caps it all off the last half hour.

24-HOUR FAST AND DAY OF SERVICE Saturday, March 3rd to Sunday, March 4th

Holy Redeemer Parish, Evergreen Park We’ll be joining teens from across the southside for a day of service followed by a lock-in with a Mass, open gym, and lots of fun. You must sign-up by Sun-day, Feb. 19th. Call Mr. Hall at 708-403-7834 for more info or come to an upcoming event or TUF Night for a registration form.

For more info on anything,

call Bruce Hall at 708-403-7834 or contact Ricky Wojcik via Facebook.

Mary Ricchiuto Candlelight Bowl Benefit A Candlelight Bowl will be held on Saturday, Feb. 25th at Vito and Nick's Pizzeria, 1015 State St., Lemont at 6pm for Mary Ricchiuto, mother of five children who has been diag-nosed with lung cancer spread to the brain. $50 includes bowling, music, pizza, pop, and grand prize drawing entry or a $25 ticket includes music, pizza, pop, and grand prize drawing entry. Call Pat Ricchiuto at 708-712-9123. Burial Cloth Workshops Social Action Ministry will host workshops to make burial cloths, dresses, diapers, boys pants and baby blankets from sheets and pillow cases at local churches: Monday, Feb. 13th from 6:30-8:30pm at St. Dennis Church on Ham-ilton St. in Lockport; Thursday, Feb. 16th from 10am-12:30pm at Zion Lutheran Church, 171st St. and 69th Ave., Tinley Park. Sewing machines are welcome. Donations of sheets/pillowcases accepted in the parish office. For infor-mation call Liz Wisnasky at 708-614-6475. Suffering From The Loss Of A Loved One? Little Co. of Mary Hospital, Evergreen Park, offers support programs for those grieving the loss of a loved one through death. For information or to register call 708-229-5484. For Adults: Living When A Loved One Has Died Six consecutive Wednesdays, beginning Feb. 29, 2012 from 7:30-9:30pm. Support groups formed specific to loss and age of participant. Registration is required. For Children: The Heart Connection Eight consecutive Mondays, beginning March 12, 2012 from 6-7:30pm. The program is for children ages 5-18 years old who had a loved one die. Early registration required. Families Anonymous If your life has gone astray due to living with someone who has a substance abuse problem, consider attending Families Anonymous on Mondays from 7-8:30pm at Palos Hospital, 123rd and 80th Ave., Palos Heights (Ambulatory Care Center, Rm. 1—enter through ER. then to Lower Level). For informa-tion call Warren at 708-429-2507 or Therese at 708-269-9853. Alcoholics Anonymous If you have a problem with alcohol and feel a sincere de-sire to stop drinking, you are welcome to attend a meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.) in the downstairs St. Eliza-beth Seton Church Hall on Thursdays from 7:30-8:45pm. Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength, and hope with each other so that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover. The only requirement is a sincere desire to stop drinking.

Pickup is Wednesday, Feb. 15th from 5:30-7pm in the Church Hall. Pay by credit card online or with cash/check at the sale. Contacts: Laurie at 708-532-6732 or Jen at 708-873-1387.

PICKUP THIS

WEDNESDAY

Register Now!

Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School is a

Nationally Recognized Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

Who is eligible to attend Cardinal Bernardin School … and where is it located? CJB, located at 9250 W. 167th Street in Orland Hills (adjacent to St. Elizabeth Seton Parish), is a regional Catholic school welcoming children baptized as Catholics. We also welcome children from other Christian households whose parents are seeking a Christian educational environment for their children. As the parish school for St. Francis of Assisi, St. Elizabeth Seton, St. Stephen Deacon & Martyr and St. Julie Billiart, children qualify for enrollment at the “in-parish” rate. Practicing Catholics of other parishes and non-Catholics are eligible for enrollment at an “out-of-parish” rate.

Where and when may I get registration materials? Registration packets are available in the school office (Monday through Friday, 7am until 2pm). If you cannot get to school during this time, please call Mrs. Devlin at 708-403-6525 (ext. 127).

What is the tuition … are there additional fees? Tuition for 2012-13 will be finalized after budget meetings in March. In-parish tuition for 2011-12 for K-8th Grade is $4,215; Pre-K (Monday-Thursday) tuition is $2613; 3 Pre-K (Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday) tuition is $1,750. Some grades require a small technology fee. There are no mandatory fundraisers.

What are school hours? Our school day begins at 7:40am and dismisses at 2pm. (AM Pre-K runs from 7:40am until 10:40am. PM Pre-K runs from 11am until 2pm. AM/PM Pre-K is Monday through Thursday.)

Is there a “Before and After School” Program? Yes! The Extended Day Program opens at 6:30am and closes when the school day begins; it re-opens at 2:00pm and closes for the night at 6:00pm. The hourly-rate ($4/hr for one child; $6/hr for two children) is invoiced monthly.

When may I register? Registration for new families takes place during the entire month of February and we will continue accepting registrations until all spaces are filled.

Additional registration questions may be directed to: Mrs. Cynthia Devlin at 708-403-6525 ext. 127 or cdevlin@cardinaljbschool.com

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME February 12, 2012 Page Eighteen

Label-Saving Programs: Campbell's Labels for Education Cardinal Bernardin School participates in several Product Label and Loyalty programs year round. The Campbell's Labels for Education program allows our school to earn free educational merchandise. Last year, CJB earned $2,790 worth of educational materials, including a GeoSafari Talking Globe, a sand/water table, and three butterfly gardens. Parishioners can help out our parish school by saving UPCs from the Campbell’s family of products, including Campbell’s, Emerald Nuts, Post, BIC Office Products, Wolfgang Puck,

Glad, Dannon Kids Yogurts, Pace, Prego, V8, Pepperidge Farm, Franco-American, SpaghettiOs, Swanson, and Pop Secret brands. The following magazines also contain Campbell's UPCs: Time, People, All You, Cooking Light, Southern Living, Health and Real Simple. Label clipping tips:

We must have the entire UPC bar code to receive point credit. Caps are required instead of the UPC bar code on V8 Vegetable Juice, V8 V-Fusion, V8 Splash, Pace jars and Campbell’s Tomato Juices.

Magazine UPC codes are available on retail sales only, no subscriptions. The collection bin for saved labels at St. Elizabeth Seton parish is located on the counter in the Narthex. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact EDF parish liaison Cindy Becker at 708-478-3527 or Karen Calcagno, EDF Chairper-son, at 708-226-1213. Thank you for your support.

PLEASE NOTE: Everyday FUNdraising at CJB no longer collects juice pouches!

SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Page Nineteen February 12, 2012

Page Twenty SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME February 12, 2012

February 12, 2012 SIXTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Page Twenty One

Pastoral Staff Rev. Richard Homa, Pastor Rev. Stanislaw Kuca, Associate Pastor Margie Guadagno, Pastoral Associate Donna Stolinski, Business Manager Claudia Nolan, Director of Liturgy Linda McKeague, Director of Music Elaine Pawlak, Religious Education Coordinator

Pastor Emeritus: Rev. William T. O’Mara

Resident Priest: Rev. William Gubbins

Deacon: Frank (Betty) Gildea Deacon: Joseph (Nancy) Bishop

Liturgy and Music Staff Claudia Nolan, Director of Liturgy Linda McKeague, Director of Music

Parish Office Staff Donna Stolinski, Business Manager Darlene Raila, Parish Publications Joan Nemec, Morning Receptionist Sharon Daley, Afternoon Receptionist

Religious Education Staff Elaine Pawlak, Catechetics Diana Barracca, Administration Karen Mirecki, Administration

Branches Youth Program Bruce Hall, Coordinator Rick Vlaming, Coordinator Rick Wojcik, Coordinator

Athletics Bob Myjak, Director

Maintenance Staff Raymond Yanowsky, Director of Maintenance Carlos Juarez, CJB Maintenance Coordinator Frank Siwiec, Staff Marie Makuch, Staff Joseph Shake, Staff Mike Makuch, Staff Mark Siwiec, Staff

REGULAR MASS SCHEDULE

Monday-Friday 9am Saturday 5pm

Sunday 7:15, 8:30, 10:00, 11:30am

St. Elizabeth Seton Church 9300 W. 167th Street Orland Hills, IL 60487

Parish Office: 708-403-0101 WEBSITE: WWW.STESETON.COM Religious Education: 708-403-0137

PARISH OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY-WEDNESDAY: 8:30AM-8:30PM THURSDAY-FRIDAY: 8:30AM-4:30PM SATURDAY-SUNDAY: 8AM-1PM

Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Catholic School 708-403-6525 Principal, Mary Iannucilli Administrative Assistant, Cindy Labriola Devlin

2/18 & 2/19 5:00PM 7:15AM 8:30AM 10:00AM 11:30AM GREETERS R. Coe

S. Klean A. Miller B. Rose P. Rose M. Rose J. Rose R. Sharp J. Sikora M. Taska R. Vlaming

A. Dovgin L. McGhee S. McGhee D. Skrzypiec B. Tenuta A. Shemanske B. Shemanske G. Staszewski P. Staszewski

K. Fox M. Fox D. Gurka M. Gurka P. Gurka M. Gurka J. Klomes J. Klomes L. Klomes M. Klomes A. McCoy

A. Gent M. Havlin J. Havlin P. Havlin B. Krueger S. Lorenz N. Lorenz J. Moran D. Weber

R. Andrews M. Broderick M. Gniady K. Ivancich B. Ivancich M. McMahon B. Wojewnik

LECTORS M. Hamilton R. Coe

D. Houha

T. Shafer G. Shafer

P. DeWilkins R. Velcich

A. Miller G. Rekar

ALTAR SERVERS

A. Jania A. Grebenor C. Binder

J. Biallas S. Biallas R. Senick

E. Juds M. Batka M. Bialka

E. Justice K. Ahern M. Muphy

D. Charnot T. Moehle T. Shattuck

EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS

J. Connelly R. Piorkowski S. Abbatemarco M. Abbatemarco J. Harris J. Paluch M. Paluch S. Galassi A. Sharp L. Jeffrey B. DeJonge D. McBride

A. Weishaar C. Nolan D. Nykiel J. Janiak M. Fundator

A. Roti B. Knight J. Cosentino V. Patrizi V. Patrizi C. Bannon K. Kelly J. Kelly T. Cohoon D. Palagi C. Nowobilski W. Bekta

S. Weishaar R. Laud D. Pacholski G. Chehy B. Hansen S. Michalek J. Kokotan-Krauss L. Gent J. Federico T. Federico S. Juska I. Juska C. Davis

K. Frese J. Frese B. McMahon J. Mitchel T. Wolski M. Morajda L. Koning M. Miller M. Merino K. Hall N. LaCoco M. O’Connor

Attention All Ministers!

Ministers schedules are now available on our website at: www.steseton.com Then visit: Music and Liturgy

ST. ELIZABETH SETON PARISH INFORMATION Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered on Saturday, between 4:15-4:45pm.

Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated twice monthly at 1pm. Reserve your time by calling the Pastoral Center early. We are limited to six children per Sunday.

Baptismal Couples preparing for the birth of their child should contact the Pastoral Center to register for a one night seminar, focusing on a parent’s role in his/her child’s faith development. This session is mandatory prior to the Baptism.

Anointing of the Sick is available in the Church every Monday after the 9am Mass. For those who are ill or facing hospitalization, it is appropriate to receive the sacrament once every six months. Please call the Pastoral Center for more information.

Ministry of Care is available to give Communion to the housebound, to visit and pray for hospitalized and/or to arrange for the Anointing of the Sick. Please call the Pastoral Center for assistance.

In the Hospital? Because of HIPAA Privacy regulations hospitals can no longer contact the parish regarding your hospitalization. It is the responsibility of you or a family member to notify our parish. We desire to offer whatever spiritual support we can. Please call the Pastoral Center.

Sacrament of Marriage Couples planning to marry are encouraged to make arrangements at least six months in advance.

Wedding Workshops are offered throughout the year. They provide engaged couples with guidelines and suggestions for the celebration of the Sacrament of Marriage. The workshop covers topics ranging from readings and music to flowers and video taping.

Adult Choir sings at all 10am Sunday Masses, as well as at a number of special liturgies.

Moving? Please call the office at 708-403-0101.

HELP IS A PHONE CALL AWAY: DOMESTIC ABUSE 24-HOUR HOTLINE: 708-429-SAFE

CRISIS PREGNANCY HOTLINE: 888-4-HOPE-4-1 HURTING FROM AN ABORTION?: 888-456-HOPE