A welcoming catholic community devoted to living out and celebrating God’s Word and Sacraments by connecting people to Christ through faith, love, and ministry.

2506 Gulf Gate Dr. Sarasota, FL 34231 | 941-923-1691 | stthomasmoresrq.org

St. thomaS moreCatholiC ChurCh | SaraSota

April 5, 2015 | Easter Sunday

/stthomasmoresrq

“he is risen... ...he is risen indeed!”

A special welcome to those who are single, married, divorced, “it’s complicated,” LGBTQI, filthy rich, dirt poor, or no hablo Ingles.

There is a place for you if you are over 60 but not grown up yet, or a teenager growing up too fast.

We welcome soccer moms, NASCAR dads, Buccaneer fans and NY Giant fans, starving artists, tree-huggers, those in recovery, and those who are still addicted.

We welcome you if you sing like Pavarotti or can’t carry a note in a bucket. You are welcome here if you’re just browsing, just got bored at thebus stop, just woke up, or just got out of jail.

We don’t care if it is your first Sunday at church or whether you’ve been to Church more times than the pope.

We welcome you if you are havingproblems or are feeling overwhelmed or if you don’t like “organized religion.” If you are looking for a fresh start, a fresh cup of coffee, or a hug from a new friend there is a place for you here.

We welcome those who are wearing“church clothes” and those who are wearing their only clothes.

We are so glad to see those who are inked, pierced, or both, those who could use a prayer right now, those who haven’t been to church since Aunt Carol’s funeral, and those who got lostin traffic and wound up here by mistake.

We welcome seekers and doubters,bleeding hearts and jaded cynics, the lost, the found… and you!-“A special welcome” by Anonymous

a specialwelcome

Fr. Michal SzySzka Parochial Vicar

CHURCH STAFFCONNECT

Join our community :stthomasmoresrq.org/register

Office Info(located in chelsea center)hourS8:30am - 4:30pm

addreSS:2506 Gulf Gate dr.sarasota, fl 34231

Phone:941-923-1691

e-Mail:info@stthomasmoresrq.orG

webSite:stthomasmoresrq.orG

Note: Summer Mass schedule is in effect (No more 3PM Saturday Vigil or 11am daily Mass)

Saturday 4:00pm

Confessions 3:00pm (in the Chapel)

Sunday8:00am9:45am (Traditional choir)

11:30am (Contemporary choir)

Weekday 8:00am

MASS TIMES

Michelle (Cantor & Music Teacher) & Julian (Architect)

Sr. Judy baldinoPastoral Associate

rev. Mr. bob GaitenSDeacon

rev. Mr. kevin MonahanDeacon

alex dilanOrganist & Music Director

chuck lynchSacristan

toM lelyoDir. of Youth Ministry

MiMi FitzGeraldHealth Mininistry Coordinator

carolann loveJoy-JeSSuPExecutive Assistant

david FelicianoParish Accountant

Mary MaxwellParish Secretary

SuSan JacobSFront Office Coordinator

Joanne tararaChelsea Coordinator

Paul urbanGrounds/Maintenance

Supervisor

raMon alveroMaintenance/Set up

John driScollMaintenance/Set up

JiM SelinSkiDir. of Operations& Stewardship

Fr. Joe cliFFordPastor

“Unity” - Why we decided to join the Catholic ChurchUnity was at the root of our desire to join the Catholic Church. It is something we all long for at the core of our being, but something we aren’t always good at achieving.

A call to unityAs the child of Protestant missionaries, I had the privilege of growing up at the edge of the jungle in Ecuador. Seeing the daily struggle of many opened my eyes to the need for social justice at a very young age. As a result, I longed to be in unity with those who were oppressed & come alongside those who were marginalized.

My husband, Adam, felt the call to unity as a young adult while reading the letters of St. Paul, specifically in 1 Corinthians. He felt convicted that the Church should be in unity and therefore felt compelled to join the Catholic Church. However, a well-intentioned friend talked him out of it, and for many years Adam remained set against joining the Catholic Church. A calling to the ChurchOver the years, I was blessed with the opportunity to meet with different leaders in the Catholic Church and ask questions.

Adam & Raq (involved in Youth Ministry TEAM)

I also volunteered through Catholic Charities teaching ESL to adult immigrants. All of this, plus the examples set by friends and family established the foundation for me.

Around a year and a half ago, I could no longer ignore God calling me to the Catholic Church. For years I ignored the call for several reasons: I didn’t want to hurt my family, I didn’t want them thinking I was rejecting my faith or them, I didn’t think Adam would be on board and I was terrified of doing it alone.

Making the callDespite these fears, I started calling multiple churches, based on their service to the community. One of the first churches to answer was St. Thomas More. Not only did someone answer, she took the time to speak with me and I found out that she joined the church as an adult. She asked if I wanted to speak with Sr. Judy who also took time out of her day to answer questions and tell me about RCIA. By picking up the phone that day, and taking time to speak with me, they played a key role in charting our course in the months to come.

Adam still had doubts, questions and concerns. While supportive of whatever decision I made for myself, he wasn’t sure if it was the right path for him. I purchased the Catechism of the Catholic Church and we read through it every night together. Over the next few months, as his doubts, concerns and questions were removed and answered, he remembered why he had felt called to be in unity with the Catholic Church, and decided he wanted to join as well.

The community who answered the call to unityAlthough we hadn’t visited St. Thomas More yet, we knew this was where we would be so we purchased a home near the church. We could never have anticipated how at home we would feel. St. Thomas More has brought much healing to us and we have eagerly anticipated the day we would be in full communion, and unity, with the Church and this community.

“ Although we hadn’t v isited St. Thomas More yet , we knew this was where we would be. . .”

God in each of usThroughout her life, Rita Toole had attended her share of retreats. Last year, after not attending a retreat for quite some time, she decided to attend the Women’s Club retreat hosted at Our Lady of Perpetual Help and led by Sr. Colleen McGinnity, BVM.

The day began with some time for food and socializing. Afterwards, Sr. McGinnity began speaking & asking

the group questions to help them understand that God is in each of us.

“For me, I learned that God can work through me in as simple an action as a smile. When I smile at someone, even if I don’t know them, people are seeing God through me,” Rita said.

A retreat for everyoneBesides Rita, attendees of last year’s retreat commented,

“anyone who truly seeks to be closer to God shall not be disappointed”.

For more info about this year’s retreat contact Carol Szafranski 941-922-5928 or carolandstan1@comcast.net

Even a smile can share Jesus - Women’s Club hosting a retreat April 16th 9am-4pm @ OLPH

“If we let Him, God can do great things in and through us, for others.”- Rita Toole

Imagine having a terminal illness and dying alone. Imagine being pregnant without support from your family. Imagine working as hard as you possibly can, but being unable to provide the basic necessities for your family.

Unfortunately, many people

in our community don’t have to imagine these situations. But, thanks to organizations like Bethesda House, Our Mothers’ House, & Catholic Charities in Arcadia, people in these positions can get help.

Beginning today, through April 15th, the Quilters of STM will be hosting a drive to collect diapers (sizes nb-6), baby wipes, & new clothes for children to benefit Our Mothers’ House & Arcadia.

Each year, the Quilters host a coffee for these organizations where they present these groups with proceeds from their yearly sales and items they collect.

This year, the coffee will take place on April 17th. It is a powerful example of Stewardship of time, talent, and treasure in order to connect people to Jesus through this ministry.

“Imagine if...” - Quilters outreach to the dying, the abandoned & the needy

“connecting people to Jesus Christ through faith, love, & ministry.”-St. Thomas More Mission Statement

“The Church needs you, yourenthusiasm, your creativity

& the joy that is so characteristic of you.”-Pope Francis WYD Rio

CHILDREN & YOUTH MINISTRIESFaith Formation, Youth Group, Mini-Disciples,

Vacation Bible School, Scouting, & more at:stthomasmoresrq.org/childrenandyouth

Matt (Student, Baseball Player, & Magician)

4) “Everything we do teaches.” Children keep us accountable as we worship. It is our duty as a community to welcome them and be good examples of reverence & worship.

5) Jesus said so: “Let the children come to me...” (Matthew 19:14)

For more tips about bringing your children to Mass goto: stthomasmoresrq.org/childreninmass

Why children are always welcome at Mass!

Child need to use the restroom?No problem! We have a special family restroom with facilities designed just for your little ones!

-Jill Crabill Mother of 4Faith Formation Teacher

& Mother’s Circle memberWe know it’s hard to bring small children to Mass! It takes a lot of courage, strength, and patience. As a Church, we want to welcome these little ones into our community so they too can celebrate and love the Mass. So, here are a few reasons why children are always welcome at Mass:

1) They are not only the future of our Church, but by their baptism, they are part of the Church NOW & belong at Mass too!

2) Children are building their own unique relationship with God too. Being in Mass teaches them how to pray, sing, listen & worship, which strengthens their relationship with God.

3) Children are joyful. There’s nothing more amazing to hear than a little voice proclaiming, “Look mommy, there is Jesus!”

Isabell, 3 future Nurse or actress

Find out more information &

see more ministries:stthomasmoresrq.org

/allministries

Social Ministries

Looking for an opportunity to connect with others in a social setting? Here are a few social ministries: The Men of STM, The Women’s Club, Youth Ministry, Mother’s Circle, Quilters, Crafty Ladies, Knights of Columbus, Saturday Morning Cyclists, Concert Committee, Mingle More Singles, Boys & Girl Scouts, Coffee & Donuts, and more!

“connecting people to Jesus Christ through faith, love, & ministry.”-St. Thomas More Mission Statement

Music Ministries

Directed by Alex Dilan, our choirs are always looking for new members: Children’s Choir, Traditional Choir, Contemporary Choir (singers & musicians wanted), and Handbell Choir.

Outreach Ministries

Serving others is at the heart of all our activities. Some of our outreach groups include: The Angel Giving Tree, Arcadia Outreach, Helping Hands, G.O.D.D. Squad, Peace & Justice, St. Vincent DePaul, Prison Society,Growing through Grief, Chelsea Cooks, Secular Franciscans, Info Desk, Guardians ad Litem, & our Welcoming Team.

Along with these, other parish groups participate in community service projects as well.

Liturgical Ministries

The Liturgy is the source & summit of our faith, and we invite you to get involved in helping others worship: Hospitality Team, Altar Servers (youth & adult), Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, Sacristans, Altar Ladies, and Arts & Liturgical environment team!

Rosemary (Involved in Chidren’s Ministry)

getINVOLVED:

Share your Easter photos!Use the hashtag #stmeaster and share your easter photos with our community!

stewardshipcreating a caring and

welcoming environment

GET INVOLVED!CONTACT:Stewardship co-chairs: Meghan Layton301-991-9821 meggi311@gmail.com

Dar Sery 941-926-2632 darmary4@gmail.com

STM STORIES:Everyone has a story. Every story is different...

STEWARDSHIP IN

ACTIONWelcoming young couples & families - ”we couldn’t be happier that we found St. Thomas More.”

Kristen & Colin have been members of STM for almost 2 years. They first heard about STM during their marriage prep sessions. When they visited, they found STM to be a welcoming community because of all the active parishioners.

“When moving to Sarasota, my husband and I were searching for a church that was welcoming to young

couples and families. We couldn’t be happier that we found St. Thomas More.”

Since joining the parish, Kristen and Colin have been active in Stewardship, Youth Ministry, and our Welcome Team.

We want to encourage you to get involved by sharing your gifts and talents with our community. For details visit stthomasmoresrq.org.

Colin (Financial Advisor) & Kristen (Career Advisor)both are involved in Stewardship Team

MeghanWife, Mother & Stewardship Team

Nick struggled between his interest in his dad’s church, which was not Catholic, and other Catholic churches he had been to. He describes his journey to the Church though the community and dynamic worship at St. Thomas More. Watch his video & others here: stthomasmoresrq.org/stmstories

intentions, april 5-12Sunday Fr. Michal 8:00am STM Parishioners living & deceased

Fr. Joe 9:45am STM Parishioners living & deceased

Fr. Joe 11:30am STM Parishioners living & deceased

Monday Fr. Michal 8:00am +Marie Herbert +Frank Amalfitano

Tuesday Fr. Michal 8:00am +Christopher Veech +John Fischetti Wednesday Fr. Michal 8:00am +Rico Babic +Peggy Dine Thursday Fr. Joe 8:00am +Mr. & Mrs. Edward Novak & Family +Vivian Mattox Friday Fr. Joe 8:00am +Coyle & Caron Family, living & deceased + Shirley Howard

Saturday Fr. Dave 8:00am +John Lishok Bill Lane Fr. Joe 4:00pm +Joanne Cerling +Denise Blazejewski

Sunday Fr. Joe 8:00am Otto Plescia -94th Birthday +Carol Winslade

Fr. Michal 9:45am +Bob Haas +Patricia Urgo

Fr. Joe 11:30am +Barbara Ansel +Jeanne Carrick

Sanctuary Candle - is lighted this weekend in loving memory of Katherine Long by her partner Eugene Balis

WeBsitestthomasmoresrq.org

Social

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Offertory3/29/15 $29,920.27St. Vincent dePaul $541Cathoilc Faith Appeal $33ParishPay $1510.01Easter Flowers $578Catholic Relief $3Youth Ministry $53

To make an online gift visit: stthomasmoresrq.org/give

CFAGoal $345,000.00Pledged $153,333.52% Participation 16.67%

To make an online gift visit: stthomasmoresrq.org/cfa

Checks should be made to “Catholic Faith Appeal”

“this church has been so welcoming to our family!” -Alex & Katie (3 children)

“I love going to church and seeing al l the families!” -Parishioner

Sunday, April 5 - Easter SundayWeekend Masses - Church8:00pm N.A. Mtg - Spirit Ctr8:00pm Nar-Anon Mtg - Spirit Ctr

Monday, April 6th - PARISH OFFICE CLOSED7:30am Pray the Rosary - Church Gracia Garrido 941-922-36568:00am Mass - Church5:30pm AA - Chelsea Garden Room6:00pm Cub/Boy Scouts - Spirit Ctr Michelle Dunn 941-806-8133 Javier Aristimuno 941-232-8073 6:00pm Men of STM -Chancellor Rm7:00pm Al-Anon - Chelsea Garden Rm

Tuesday, April 7th - NO FAITH FORMATION7:30am Pray the Rosary - Church Gracia Garrido 941-922-36568:00am Mass - Church

Wednesday, April 8th 7:30am Pray the Rosary - Church Gracia Garrido 941-922-36568:00am Mass - Church9:30am Mothers’ Circle -Spirit Ctr Natalie Lelyo 215-620-11846:00pm AA -Chelsea Lancaster Rm6:00pm Youth Group - Spirit Ctr Tom Lelyo 941-374-68848:00pm Traditional Choir -Church Alex Dilan 941-923-1691

Thursday, April 9th7:30am Pray the Rosary - Church Gracia Garrido 941-922-36568:00am Mass - Church9:30am Crafty Ladies Mary Hautanen 941-922-889210:00am Quilters of STM -Spirit Ctr Bonnie Lagner 941-921-12616:00pm Girl Scouts -Chelsea Ginny Lawlor 941-894-79756:30pm Women’s Club -Chelsea Ctr Mary Joe Swenson 941-966-27316:30pm Knights of Columbus -Spirit Ctr Bob Haas 941-922-25366:30pm Scouts Pack Committee Mtg -Spirit Ctr Hope Rm6:30pm Contemplative Prayer -Chelsea Ed Savoy 941-923-57067:00pm Contemporary Choir -Church Alex Dilan 941-923-1691

Friday, April 10th7:30am Pray the Rosary - Church Gracia Garrido 941-922-36568:00am Mass - Church1:00pm Cards & Mah Jongg -Chelsea6:00pm AA Meeting -Garden Rm

Saturday, April 11thon - Peace & Justice Talk7:30am Pray the Rosary - Church Gracia Garrido 941-922-36568:00am Mass - Church9:00am New Member Tour -Church4:00pm Vigil Mass -Church

Sunday, April 12 - Peace & Justice TalkWeekend Masses - Church8:00pm N.A. Mtg - Spirit Ctr8:00pm Nar-Anon Mtg - Spirit Ctr

thisWEEK:

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