- St. Michael in Old Town
Transcription
- St. Michael in Old Town
Our Mother of Perpetual Help St. Michael in Old Town Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time June 12, 2016 Jesus forgives the woman because of her great love (Luke 7:36 — 8:3 [7:36-50]). This Week at St. Michael For more information or to participate in any of the activities listed below, please call the Parish Office at (312) 642-2498. Sunday, June 12 9:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 6:00 p.m. Mass Church Tour Mass Mass Monday, June 13 8:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 p.m. Mass 6:30 p.m. ACA Meeting 7:00 p.m. Stillpoint/Contemplative Prayer 7:00 p.m. Baptism Preparation Class Tuesday, June 14 8:00 a.m. Mass with Our Mother of Perpetual Help Devotion 12:00 p.m. Mass with Our Mother of Perpetual Help Devotion 8:00 p.m. AA Meeting Wednesday, June 15 8:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 p.m. Mass 6:00 p.m. AA (Women Only) 7:00 p.m. Parish Pastoral Council Meeting Thursday, June 16 8:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 p.m. Mass 7:00 p.m. Rosary Friday, June 17 8:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 p.m. Mass 8:00 p.m. AA Meeting Saturday, June 18 8:00 a.m. Mass 4:15 p.m. Confessions 5:00 p.m. Mass Sunday, June 19 9:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 2 Mass Church Tour Knights of Columbus Meeting Mass Baptism Service Mass From the Pastor Dear Parishioners, Well, this week I know my information is correct. We have reached and even surpassed our goal for the To Teach Who Christ Is campaign. As of the time I am writing this letter, Wednesday morning June 8, we are at around 103%! I will report our final figure once I am sure that all of the pledges are in. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Remember, June is our special month for honoring Our Mother of Perpetual Help. This week, I want to share the second section of the presentation on The Icon of Love by Serafino Fiore, C.Ss.R. Please take advantage of the copy of the Icon on the front page of the bulletin as you read his thoughts. “The two hands of our Mother of Perpetual Help have an extraordinarily symbolic reach. The center of the icon is, for many, represented by the right hand of Mary which Jesus’ hand grasps. It reminds us of her intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. It is a relationship that a mother lives in a unique and unrepeatable way, having carried her child in her womb. It is a relationship that is strengthened when a child is afraid. It is a relationship that the believer enjoys by means of the sacraments and prayer. The left hand of Mary holds the body of Jesus. The symbolism of this type of icon recalls the gesture with which a bishop holds the book of the Gospels during liturgy. Mary holds the Word made flesh with her left hand. This is the same Word that she pondered in her heart (Lk 2: 51), especially when he was a child, conceived by the Holy Spirit. This is the same Word that raised questions and, at times, anguish for her. The Word continues to be made flesh in the life of the baptized, in their manner of acting, in their choices, and in their struggles against sin. To enflesh the Word means to follow the command of Mary at Cana: “Do whatever he tells you” (Jn 2: 5). These are her last recorded words in the Gospel. Her spiritual legacy for us. To strive to live an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, strengthened by being able to recognize and to follow the voice of the Spirit. Today, more than ever, we use the metaphor “the way” to speak of life. For many people today, absolute truths do not exist, but for the believer, they do. And even this we gradually discover in the things that happen to us, in our experiences, and in the sufferings and disappointments that come our way in life. The metaphor of life as a “way” was always a manner of speaking of Christianity. From the beginning, Jesus’ disciples were recognized as people of “the way” (Acts 9:2; 19:9). Christianity is a way of living - to be considered and pondered in freedom. One of many ways possible, even if for us baptized, it is the only one that brings us the fullness of life. In the face of reason, faith was often seen in the past as “darkness,” “a leap in the dark.” The metaphor used by Lumen Fidei turns things upside down: human opinions are important, shining light on relationships and society. But we’re speaking always of “little lights,” capable of enlightening the path in front of us, but not much more. Only the great light of faith shines bright enough in our lives so that we can discover a reason - for example for fostering the common good, or for perceiving the line that separates good from evil. This difference between the great light and little lights is seen without a doubt in political life, the mass media, in the hidden control of the great economy and in the news events of everyday life. Mary is the woman of faith par excellence. One of the first descriptions that the New Testament gives her is: “She who believed” (Lk 1:45). Mary made her life “a pilgrimage of faith.” The great light of faith helped her to overcome the dark moments of her journey and to believe ultimately in the Risen One without needing to run to the tomb. The right hand of the Mother of Perpetual Help participates not only in the earthly destiny of Jesus, but it shows us the Way to follow if we want to live as children of God. St. Michael in Old Town From the Pastor Please be sure to plan on attending the special celebration here at St. Michael’s on Monday, June 27. We have a special notice below with all the details listed. Be sure to pray that this celebration is a success and our devotion to Our Mother of Perpetual Help is renewed. God bless you in the coming week! In the Redeemer, Fr. Ted Lawson, C.Ss.R. Pastor Spiritual Living Commission Commission Head: Susan Cass The Spiritual Living Commission offers programs that nurture living in the presence of God. Catholic in its roots and ecumenical in its outreach, the Commission strives to assist all in their desire for meaning, purpose, and community built on the foundation of God’s unconditional love. Ministries include: Adult Confirmation, Religious Education, RCIA, Young Adult Ministry, Marriage, Single Life Development & Enrichment, Pathways/Stillpoint, Bible/Scripture studies. Contemplative Prayer Group 3rd Floor Chapel in the Rectory Monday from 7:00-8:00 p.m. Come experience the profound impact of silent meditation in a group. If you'd like to learn how to meditate, contact Fr. Ken Sedlak at 312-642-2498 or email kcssr148@gmail.com. It only takes 15 minutes to learn - and a lifetime to complete. Our Mother of Perpetual Help 150th Anniversary June 27, 2016 You are invited to the Redemptorist’s celebration of the 150th anniversary of being entrusted with the icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help by Pope Pius IX in 1866, to make her known throughout the world.” Mark your calendar now and join us for the celebration. 6:00 p.m. Prayer service in St. Michael’s Church 6:30 p.m. Process to the Parish Center Café for refreshments 7:00 p.m. View a simulcast of the celebration from St. Alphonsus Liguori “Rock” Church in St. Louis Father's Day Mass Enrollment Cards St. Michael's offers an opportunity for parishioners to remember their beloved fathers, living or deceased, or some other significant man in your life in a spiritual way on Father's Day. Your father will be remembered in a monthly Mass throughout the coming year. Mass enrollment cards are available at the back of the church. Simply fill out the card, enclose your donation, and drop it in the collection basket. St. Michael in Old Town Rosary Prayer Group Ancilla Domini Chapel Saint Louis De Montfort writes in "The Secret of the Rosary", "Somebody who says his Rosary alone gains the merit of one Rosary, but if he says it together with thirty other people he gains the merit of thirty Rosaries. This is the law of public prayer. How profitable, how advantageous this is!" Looking for a way to enrich your spiritual life? Join in praying the Rosary weekly with your fellow parishioners. The group meets on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. in the Chapel. Roles in the Mass We are seeking additional lectors, servers, and Eucharistic ministers for all our masses To sign up please call the Parish Office at 312-642-2498 or email information@st-mikes.org. 3 Mass Schedule Mass in the Church Saturday: 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 9:00 a.m.; 11:00 a.m.; 6:00 p.m. Daily Mass in the Ancilla Domini Chapel: Monday through Saturday: 8:00 a.m. Monday through Friday: 12:00 p.m. (Noon) Our Mother of Perpetual Help Devotions: Tuesdays after the 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. masses. For all chapel masses please enter through the east door when possible. Confessions In the Church: Saturdays 4:15 - 4:50 p.m. At the Rectory: When a priest is available or by appointment. Baptisms First and third Sundays of each month at 1:00 p.m. except during Lent Parent preparation sessions are normally held on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. or the fourth Sunday of the month at 2:00 p.m. Holiday weekends are the exception. To schedule a baptism and/or register for a parent preparation session, please contact the Parish Office at (312) 642-2498 or see our website for information. Weddings Fridays: 3:00 p.m. Saturdays: 12:00 and 3:00 p.m. Other wedding times are possible when mutually agreed upon with the pastor. Arrangements should be made a minimum of four months in advance of a wedding date. Please contact the Parish Office at (312) 642-2498 and ask for Christine Kordiuk to receive additional information. Anointing of the Sick Please call the church office at (312) 642-2498 if you have a family member or friend who is homebound, in a nursing home, or in the hospital who would like to receive the Anointing of the Sick or other sacraments. Rectory Hours Monday: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Tuesday through Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Sunday and Holidays: Closed Visit our website at www.st-mikes.org Join our “St. Michael in Old Town” Page! 4 Parish Directory Pastor/Rector Church Tours Rev. Ted Lawson, C.Ss.R. tlawson@st-mikes.org tours@st-mikes.org Associate Pastors Council Chair Pro Tem: Doug Macleod Rev. Ramon Dompke, C.Ss.R. ololramon@yahoo.com Rev. Joseph Morin, C.Ss.R. jjmorin@st-mikes.org Rev. Ken Sedlak, C.Ss.R. kcssr148@gmail.com Redemptorists in Residence Rev. John Paul Andree, C.Ss.R. Rev. Tom Donaldson, C.Ss.R. Rev. Tat Hoang, C.Ss.R. Rev. Jim Keena, C.Ss.R. Rev. John Phelps, C.Ss.R. Rev. Gregory Schmitt, C.Ss.R Business Office/Parish Manager Finance Council Parish Pastoral Council Council Chair: Communications and Special Events Commission Commission Head: Jean Cocozza Spiritual Living Commission Commission Head: Susan Cass Human Concerns and Needs Commission Co-Commission Heads: Barbara Pope and Jeanne Sanna Monthly Meetings: 2nd Wednesday 7:00 p.m., Parish Center Pat Krier (312) 642-2498, ext. 215 pkrier@st-mikes.org Parish Life Commission Administrative Assistant Respect Life Commission Barbara Giannoni (312) 642-2498, ext. 210 bgiannoni@st-mikes.org Events/Communication Toni Dunning (312) 642-2498, ext. 211 tdunning@st-mikes.org Wedding Co-ord./Parish Center Mgr Christine Kordiuk (312) 642-2498 ext. 301 ckordiuk@st-mikes.org Music Ministry (312) 642-2498 Coordinator of Religious Education Elizabeth Kabacinski (312) 642-2498, ext. 303 ekabacinski@st-mikes.org Sacristy/Office Ray Perpignani (312) 642-2498, ext. 239 rperpignani@st-mikes.org Sacristy/Office John Steigerwald (312) 642-2498, ext. 210 jsteigerwald@st-mikes.org Maintenance and Housekeeping Kendra Koldan Victoria Reyes Roxana Vieira Evalds Zemmers Commission Head: Commission Head: Del Ramirez Worship Commission Commission Head: Diane Kelley-Thompson Stillpoint/Contemplative Prayer Director: Fr. Ken Sedlak, C.Ss.R. kcssr148@gmail.com Weekly Gatherings: Monday 7:00 p.m., Rectory Chapel Gala Diane Kelley-Thompson gala@st-mikes.org Social Media Sites - Check us out! Facebook: St. Michael’s Moms Group St. Michael in Old Town Oktoberfest 5K Run Young Adults of St. Michael in Old Town (Public group) St. Michael in Old Town Young Adults Websites: St-mikes.org Oktoberfest5krun.com Breakfast With Santa (sites.google.com/site/stmichaelsbws/) Spring Fling Gala (sites.google.com/site/stmikesgala/) Twitter: @StMichaelOT Instagram: St Michael in Old Town Pinterest: St. Michael in Old Town St. Michael in Old Town Saint of the Day and Mass Intention Ministry Schedule Date Celebrant Homilist Monday, June 13 8:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 p.m. Mass Fr. Lawson Fr. Lawson Fr. Dompke Fr. Dompke Tuesday, June 14 8:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 p.m. Mass Fr. Lawson Fr. Lawson Fr. Dompke Fr. Dompke Wednesday, June 15 8:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 p.m. Mass Fr. Lawson Fr. Lawson Fr. Dompke Fr. Dompke Thursday, June 16 8:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 p.m. Mass Fr. Keena Fr. Keena Fr. Dompke Fr. Dompke Friday, June 17 8:00 a.m. Mass 12:00 p.m. Mass Fr. Keena Fr. Keena Fr. Dompke Fr. Dompke Saturday, June 18 8:00 a.m. Mass 3:00 p.m. Wedding 4:15 p.m. Confession Fr. Keena Fr. Lawson Fr. Lawson Date Saturday, June 18 5:00 p.m. Sunday, June 19 9:00 a.m. Mass 11:00 a.m. Mass Celebrant Fr. Morin Fr. Lawson Fr. Lawson Sunday, June 12 Sacred Heart 9:00 a.m. Fr. Richard Thibodeau, C.Ss.R. (Anniversary) 11:00 a.m. † Helen Jaccarino and Joseph Jaccarino (Liv) 6:00 p.m. Parishioners of St. Michael’s Monday, June 13 St. Anthony of Padua 8:00 a.m. St. Michael’s Foundation Members 12:00 p.m. † Jerry Radogne Tuesday, June 14 8:00 a.m. † Mary J. Wedenoja 12:00 p.m † John Raymond Hallsberg Fr. Keena Fr. Lawson Fr. Lawson Homilist Lectors/ Servers Eucharistic Ministers J. Pecot* M. McGowan R. O’Brien Fr. Morin D. Eagan C. Jaccarino Fr. Lawson T. Dunning* D. Sajous-Brady T. Malec J. Sennott M. Santana L. Schreiber Fr. Lawson R. Graham* D. Kelley B. Rahn R. Roach C. Donnellan K. Verret 1:00 p.m. Baptism Service Fr. Lawson 6:00 p.m. Mass Fr. Morin Fr. Morin J. Bachmann — Wednesday, June 15 Servant of God Orlando Catani 8:00 a.m. † John and Marie Reiff 12:00 p.m. † William and Angela O’Connell Thursday, June 16 8:00 a.m. † Margaret Gillespie 12:00 p.m. † Friday, June 17 St. Albert Chmielowski 8:00 a.m. Redemptorist Vocations 12:00 p.m. † D’Arcy Orde Saturday, June 18 8:00 a.m. † Raquel Perez 5:00 p.m. Parishioners of St. Michael’s Sunday, June 19 St. Romuald 9:00 a.m. † Jo Leiting 11:00 a.m. † Anthony Zagar 6:00 p.m. † Emmett Steele *Minister to prepare host/wine and assignments This Week’s Readings Monday: Looking for a Ministry? This is your invitation to join the Docents of Saint Michael in Old Town. We have a wonderful tradition of conducting tours to expand everyone's knowledge of our church, the rich history about the founders of our parish and the people who joined it. All training will be provided to fit your schedule. Please join us and train for this worthwhile ministry. Email tours@st-mikes.org if you are interested in joining or if you have any questions. St. Michael in Old Town 1 Kgs 21:1-16; Ps 5:2-3ab, 4b-7; Mt 5:38-42 Tuesday: 1 Kgs 21:17-29; Ps 51:3-6ab, 11, 16; Mt 5:43-48 Wednesday: 2 Kgs 2:1, 6-14; Ps 31:20, 21, 24; Mt 6:1-6, 16-18 Thursday: Sir 48:1-14; Ps 97:1-7; Mt 6:7-15 Friday: 2 Kgs 11:1-4, 9-18, 20; Ps 132:11-14, 17-18; Mt 6:19-23 Saturday: 2 Chr 24:17-25; Ps 89:4-5, 29-34; Mt 6:24-34 Sunday: Zec 12:10-11; 13:1; Ps 63:2-6, 8-9; Gal 3:26-29; Lk 9:18-24 5 Human Concerns & Needs Commission News & Announcements Co-Commission Heads: Barbara Pope and Jeanne Sanna Pastor’s Representative: Fr. Joe Morin, C.Ss.R. Monthly Meetings: 2nd Thurs., 7:00 p.m., Parish Center Current Projects where your help makes a big difference: Ongoing Collections • Toiletries for Marquard Center, non-perishable food for Catholic Charities, Boxtops for Education and Campbell’s labels for Manierre School Food Service • Marquard Center—bake, cook, and serve a meal monthly on Saturday. Contact R. Yanku (marquard.center.volunteers@gmail.com) Contact Mary McCarthy for the following volunteer opportunities (mary.loretta.mccarthy@gmail.com) • Catholic Charities—serve dinner one Tuesday of each quarter • Deborah’s Place—serve dinner the fourth Wednesday of the month Finance Council Commission Head: Pro Tem: Doug Macleod Pastor’s representative: Fr. Ted Lawson C.Ss.R. The Finance Council advises the pastor on the tangible assets of the parish community including financial resources, buildings, and the church’s grounds and provides financial oversight for all parish events. The Council consists of parishioners with skills in finance, accounting, legal, construction and architecture. Membership is by invitation of the pastor, Fr. Ted Lawson, C.Ss.R.. Remember in Your Prayers For health and healing: Rev. John Paul Andree, C.Ss.R., Bernice Baumgarten, Mamie Colacino, Addie Gallagher, Michael James and Lauren Hohler, Therese and Paul Kunach, Mary Jane Liang, Dorothy Meyers, Carl, Diane, and Lyla Neubek, Rev. Ken Sedlak, C.Ss.R., Marie Sineni, Robert Taylor, Drew Michael Williams, Ted and MaryAnn Wiszowaty, Lawrence Worobec, Frances Zuvich Repose of the Soul: Ida Tedesco To place or keep a name on our sick list, please call the rectory every 3 weeks to let us know that you, a loved one, or friend are still in need of prayers. Upcoming Weddings III—June 17, 2016 Ms. Sara Telezyn & Mr. Andrew Markowitz III—June 18, 2016 Ms. Kelly Coyne & Mr. Corwin Battin III–June 20, 2016 Ms. Stephanie Garfinkel & Mr. Michael Knapp II—June 25 2016 Ms. Courtney Darlington & Mr. Ryan Lavorgna II—June 25, 2016 Ms. Kala Tiongson & Mr. Cristian Barrero I—July 1 2016 Ms. Stephanie Small & Mr. Jon Lind III I—July 2 2016 Ms. Dana Ferm & Mr. Panit Hompluem I—July 2 2016 Ms. Kristin Deitos & Mr. Alec Bernstein I—July 3, 2016 Ms. Kristy Scifo & Mr. Christopher Hynes Volunteers Needed! Financial Report as of June 6, 2016 Sunday Collection through June 5, 2016 6 Envelopes and Checks $ 4,067 Electronic Giving $ 4,422 Cash $ 994 Total through June 5, 2016 $ 9,483 On July 9th (and every second Saturday of the month) our Human Concerns and Needs Commission will be preparing and serving a meal at the Marquard Center, a Franciscan outreach soup kitchen at 1645 W Le Moyne St, Chicago, to over 100 homeless persons. Volunteers from St. Michael’s shop, bake cookies or brownies, prepare, cook and serve the meal each month. It takes many volunteers to keep this going and we could use YOU! If you can donate any time for this outreach program, please email marquard.center.volunteers@gmail.com. You can sign up for a specific month that fits into your schedule or every month! The Human Concerns Commission appreciates every minute you can spare! Upcoming dates are August 13th, September 10th, and October 8th. Save the date and join in. This is a fun day to be a part of. St. Michael in Old Town News & Announcements Religious Education Registration Information Stillpoint St. Michael’s Spirituality Resource Director: Fr. Ken Sedlak, C.Ss.R., Contemplative Prayer Gathering: Mondays, 7:00 p.m. Parish Rectory 2nd Floor Chapel Registration for the 2016/17 Religious Education Program has begun! Register now to receive your early submission discount! In formation can be found on our website under the Religious Education tab st-mikes.org, under the Inner Views Parish Life tab to download and print the appropriate paperwork. You can Summer Rerun also stop by or call the parish Office (312-642-2498) for a printed copy of the registration forms. Our new CRE, Elizabeth Kabacinski, has many exciting Last week's column ended abruptly. That wasn't supplans for next fall! posed to be a cliffhanger, just an oversight on our part. Since I think this column is describing a very important development in our shared spirituality I would like to repeat it, this time with the ending in Religious Education Catechists Needed tact. The Religious Education Program and Children’s Liturgy of the Word is We are fortunate, the spiritual hunger that drives so looking for adult catechists and high school student assistants for the 2016/17 much of our motivation from deep inside is showing school year! No experience necessary, just an enthusiasm for the Christian itself in our everyday awareness. We are being brought faith! Please contact Elizabeth Kabacinski, CRE, if you are interested, email face to face with a profound spiritual hunger. When we ekabacinski@st-mikes.org or call 312-642-2498 x - 303. get hungry our stomach gurgles and growls. Here at the start of the twenty first century our culture is growling and gurgling for spiritual living that is felt not just thought, meaningful not just emotional, applied to our actual life and not just an ancient tradition. The spirituality we grew up with fit its time in history but now we’re at a time of spiritual development that is hungering for a spirituality that is more effective for all God’s children. Yoga of 12 Step Recovery at St. Mikes The Yoga of 12 Step Recovery (Y12SR) combines the practical tools of a 12 step program with yoga, addressing the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of addiction. Modeled from the meetings of 12-step programs, Y12SR is a group sharing circle coupled with an intentional, themed trauma-informed yoga practice. Y12SR meetings are open for anyone dealing with their own addictive behaviors or affected by those behaviors in others. Y12SR deepens any work participants may be currently doing or jumpstart the journey of self –discovery. Meetings are free, donations optional. Please wear comfortable clothes. More information available at www.Y12SR.com or email Christine Kordiuk, ckordiuk@st-mikes.org or call 312-642-2498, ext. 301. This class will be meeting every other Tuesday from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Parish Center, 3rd floor. Please enter at 1711 N. Cleveland Ave door. This coming into consciousness of our deep seated spiritual hunger is having a profound impact on religious institutions. Ritual observance is no longer enough. Going through the motions does not satisfy the need for a deeply felt and embracing relationship with God and one another. To tell the truth I’m very excited by this because it’s been in the background of my searching since I was ordained. I’ve felt a longing for something more substantial than obligations and good intentions. We often hear the statement “I’m not religious I’m spiritual.” Its meaning is very concrete. These are people who want their faith to make a difference in the way they experience their relationship with God and how that effects all the rest of their relationships. They see religion as teaching dogmas and making moral demands in a way that has little to do with helping us live these out in the complex situations of our daily lives. They want to live consciously, aware of the choices they make and the reasons for those choices. It’s not enough to just fall into line and do what we’re told. Alan E. Nelson describes these expectations this way: “People…are seeking leaders and organiza ons that The next meeting of the St. Mike's Book Club is Thursday, June 23 at nurture their souls and the other parts of their lives. 7:00 pm in the Parish Center; we will be discussing, The Little Paris They won’t’ be sa sfied working for or being part of Bookshop written by Nina George. organiza ons that are in opposi on to their spiritual As per the review by Amazon, health. People want more out of work and church. They want to find significance in what they do. They “Monsieur Perdu can prescribe the perfect book for a broken heart. But want to follow leaders who treat them as whole peocan he fix his own? ple who have hearts that need to be nourished and … Internationally bestselling and filled with warmth and adventure, The Litcared for. This means findings leaders who understand tle Paris Bookshop is a love letter to books, meant for anyone who believes in their needs and who are in tune with their own souls the power of stories to shape people's lives.” as they lead.” Everyone is welcome to join us for snacks and a lively discussion of our next – Spirituality & Leadership, Alan E. Nelson St. Michael Book Club fascinating book selection. If you would like more information, contact Toni Dunning at 312-642-2498 or email tdunning@st-mikes.org. St. Michael in Old Town 7 We’ve been given theological and moral conclusions but little help with developing the personal experience and perceptions needed to act from the depths of our soul self. Jesus taught in a whole different way. He wants to set us in a world that is larger than our mind (ego), which he calls the "Reign of God.” Jesus taught not by lecturing in a classroom or preaching from a pulpit; instead he draws us into a relationship with himself, the Father and Spirit. He creates a foundation of love that can grow into a love that overflows our souls to others. People have little patience for ideals that do not help them here and now. Waiting for a heavenly reward is no longer an option that makes sense. Happily it also was not Jesus’ intention. As he says so clearly; “The reign of God is here in your midst.” (Luke 17:21) For the last four years I’ve been leading a class for adults who want to become Catholic (RCIA). They have made a decision as adults to find something that feeds their spiritual hunger. But they are not willing to be boxed into a simplistic moralism and ritualism. They are looking for help in facing their dilemmas and examining the meaning of their faith. These people are very much aware of their “issues” and have spent a lot of effort in facing them as honestly as possible. Although they’ve dealt with much of this they still feel something is missing: and they look to spirituality for clues. They will go wherever they find something that feeds their hunger. I identify with this because it’s exactly what I’ve been looking for in my own life. As long as I can remember I’ve felt something is missing in my life that my seminary formation is unable to satisfy. As I grew older I’ve felt that only a much more intimate relationship with God, with Trinity, is what I’ve been hungering for. I’ve found that this develops most fruitfully in my relationships with other people. Now I’m beginning to see that this is “my way” but other people are diligently working to find their way. Anything less is not enough. And “Jesus’ Way” makes room for all of us because the “Reign of God” includes all Creation. Christians call this compassion and Buddhists call it loving kindness; spiritual directors and therapists call it presence. These are different metaphors but basically they are awareness without judgment. Let me leave you with Jesus’ revelation – God loves you intimately and with more passion than you can imagine. Divine Love is that actual life giving energy that makes you who you are. You and I and every human being is a beloved child “in whom I am well pleased.” (Mt. 3:17) But we have built in resistances to accepting this as our personal reality. Spirituality is about dealing with these resistances and opening to our soul. Jesus’ ministry helps us let go of everything that keeps God, without knowing it, at arm’s length. If this makes sense to your experience I invite you to join me in doing our best to follow Jesus’s original agenda. It’s all in the Gospels, but we’ll have to let go of many of the interpretations we’ve heard over the years. And like our “beloved” sisters and brothers we’ll need to search through anything that attracts our spirit. This may include Buddhism, psychology, energy work, body work; journaling; yoga; dream work; reading; art; scripture: anything that we find to feed our spirit. (Continued in column to the right) 8 News & Announcements Oktoberfest 5K Run and Walk In the Park St. Michael’s 6th Annual Oktoberfest 5K Run/Walk in the Park is on September 15th! Early registration has begun so sign up NOW! Sign up 10 or more and additional discounts will apply! Sponsorships are being solicited, monetary and in-kind, so keep the 5K in mind when looking for space to advertise your business or service. You have access to over 700 participants. Contact Toni Dunning for more information at 312-642-2498 or email tdunning@st-mikes.org. This is a great event to be involved in! Looking for a Ministry? This is your invitation to join the Docents of Saint Michael in Old Town. We have a wonderful tradition of conducting tours to expand everyone's knowledge of our church, the rich history about the founders of our parish and the people who joined it. All training will be provided to fit your schedule. Please join us and train for this worthwhile ministry. Email tours@st-mikes.org if you are interested in joining or if you have any questions. A Prayer for “Renew My Church” Lord Jesus, you speak to us today, as you spoke to holy men and women who have gone before us. In every age and in our own time, you call to us and say: Renew My Church. Pour out the gift of your Holy Spirit upon us, and so enable us to hear you clearly to listen to each other attentively to imagine our future boldly to discern your direction wisely to persevere in your holy will courageously to stay together in charity to surrender own plans readily to embrace the greater good to hand on your gifts to future generations. May we remain in the holy company of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the apostles, and all the saints. May their example and presence inspire us with patient confidence in the work of your grace. We ask this of you who live and reign with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen Inner Views (Continued from column to the left) In my life, after searching through a great variety of possibilities, the Gospels have become a center that draws it all together for me. This has meant learning to relate to the Gospels in a new way that surpasses our mind (ego) in favor of our soul. Soul is where God is loving us into existence at every moment. As we’ll see in the next offering Jesus’ method invites us to wander with him and learn from his way of dealing with our hunger. Instead of trying to give us information he will lead us through our life experience to the presence of the unconditional love of God. Ken Sedlak C.Ss.R., PATHWAYS / STILLPOINT St. Michael in Old Town News & Announcements Adult Faith Formation Series St. Ignatius Parish 6559 N. Glenwood Avenue Chicago, IL 60626 773-764-5936 www.stignatiuschurch.org On April 8, 2016 the Holy Father released an Apostolic Exhortation on the life of the family. It represents a summary and sharing of the spirituality of the Pope in understanding the work of the Bishops` Synod on Family which concluded this past fall. The document encourages mercy and discernment as the pathway in addressing the needs of the modern Catholic family. Deacon Larry Rossow will make a presentation of the Pope`s summary on Wednesday, June 15th at 7 pm in the Holy Name Room. Deacon Lawrence Rossow is Professor Emeritus from University of Oklahoma where he taught Religious Studies and Theology for Newman University. Other topics for the summer will include: July 13 Works of Mercy August 17 Virtues and Vices September 14 The 12 Apostles All presentations will be in the Holy Name Room beginning at 7:00 pm and ending at 8:30. For more information, please contact the parish. Parish Pastoral Council Council Chair: 2016 Parish Pastoral Council Members CHAIR: VICE-CHAIR: SECRETARY: Member-at-large: Member-at-large: Member-at-large: Member-at-large: Member-at-large: Alice Huff Jean Cocozza Joe Tully Annie Pecoraro Alice Huff Jim Theisen Commission Representatives Communications/ Special Events: Jean Cocozza Spiritual Living: Susan Cass Human Concerns: Jeanne Sanna Parish Life: Worship: Diane Kelley-Thompson Pastor: Fr. Ted Lawson, C.Ss.R. Parish Staff Representatives: Fr. Joe Morin, C.Ss.R. Christine Kordiuk, Toni Dunning Music Ministry Pastor’s Representative: Fr. Ted Lawson C.Ss.R. Membership to the Schola Cantorum or the Contemporary Choir is open to all high school, college and adult parishioners. If you would like to learn more about our parish choirs please contact Scott to schedule an time to visit. Knights of Columbus This weekend is the Old Town Art Fair. Feel free to take a break for an hour on Saturday to join us at Sedgwick Stop for a cocktail and the Belmont Stakes race. We look forward to seeing you. Also, the Knights will once again be offering complimentary coffee, juice, and donuts this summer (weather permitting), after many of the Sunday morning masses. Stop by for a few minutes, say hello, enjoy a cup of joe, and talk with your fellow parishioners. Anyone interested in the Knights of Columbus should contact Tim Bracken at tdbracken.knights@yahoo.com or call 312-953-4176. Parish Life Commission Commission Head: The Parish Life Commission provides a wide variety of programs that enhance the social experience and sense of community for all Parishioners. Its various activities include: Young Adults group, Docents of St. Michael’s, Mom’s Groups, New Parishioner Welcome Events, Gardening Group, Book Club Church Tours Planning a Party? Remember St. Michael’s Parish Center Café when planning your next family reunion (outdoor picnic?), Baptism luncheon, bridal or baby shower, or just get together with friends to watch the “big” game together. If it’s a meeting room you need for a condo board, homeowners meeting , fantasy sports league draft, a quiet place to work or just to plan something important in your life, think of St. Michael’s Parish Center. Wi-Fi is free, kitchen facilities are available for cooking or caterers or just have food delivered. Rooms are available for all your needs and for all group sizes! There are conference room designs, daytime retreat room setups or dining facilities for large groups. Contact Christine Kordiuk at 312-642-2498, ext. 301 or email ckordiuk@st-mikes.org. today for details and pricing. And remember: St. Michael’s has free parking for its guests! Priceless! St. Michael in Old Town Tours of the church are held most Sundays after the 11:00 a.m. Mass in winter and after the 9:00 a.m. Mass in summer. All are welcome. Please meet by the Offering Kiosk on the east side of the church. Tours for groups can be scheduled by emailing tours@st-mikes.org. Tours: June 12, 19, 26 at 10:00 a.m. Mom’s Group Join our welcoming group of new moms monthly at the Parish Center. They meet the first Wednesday of the month for a playgroup, snack and craft from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Please contact Toni Dunning at tdunning@st-mikes.org for more information. 9 Support St. Michael’s Giving Options at St. Michael’s! We Need YOU! Here at St. Michael we strive to make giving convenient and stay current with modern technology choices and online giving. As you travel this summer, consider setting your donation up online so even though you are gone, your donation won’t be! Below you will find options for you when you find yourself wanting to donate, If we can address your needs in another manner feel free to email tdunning@st-mikes.org with details. 1. Giving Kiosk On the east side of the church is a kiosk designed for accepting donations. On the front of the kiosk you can insert cash, checks or swipe a credit card for “Quick” gives. No login is required. OR—if you choose, our kiosk is linked directly to our website. From the St. Michael’s home page, you can view our website for information, click on any link on our site, and gain access to our Online Giving System by clicking the Online Giving logo on the front page, bottom right corner. Donations can be designated to the Outreach Fund, Maintenance Fund, Sunday Giving, or Comprehensive campaign in addition to any of the seasonal funds for projects and events currently taking place at St. Michael’s. 2. Quick Read Code With you smart phone you can now scan our code with your phone and you will be linked automatically to our Online Giving system login page. 3. From any computer you can access our website (www.st-mikes.org) and enter into our Online Giving System . 4. We accept donations of cash or checks mailed to us (1633 N Cleveland Ave., Chicago, IL 60614), delivered to the office or in the Offertory at mass. 5. If you would like to create a regular donation plan and are unable to use a computer, find the systems confusing or just need help, please call Pat Krier or Toni Dunning in the office for assistance. (312-642-2498) 6. If you wish to purchase items online in support of any event (Christmas Gift Drive, Outreach, Hunger Relief Drive, for example) you can have your donation shipped directly to St. Michael’s, attn. Toni Dunning, 1633 N Cleveland Ave., Chicago, IL 60614. In the comment section when ordering indicate the event the donation is in support of or email tdunning@st-mikes.org with your donation information. 12 “I have been made for heaven and heaven for me.” —St. Joseph Cafasso