First Sunday of Advent - stm-church.com · 11/29/2015 · SUNDAY, November 29 — First Sunday of...

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St. Peter and St. Paul Church in Oberammergau, Germany

First Sunday of Advent

Mission Statement : The Roman Catholic Saint Thomas More Parish Family welcomes and invites every person to join us on our journey in faith and celebration. With the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and through Sacred Scripture and Tradition, we proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all, especially in loving service to those in need.

As part of the Universal Church, we affirm the dignity of every person. All this we do to give glory and honor to God.

Pastoral Staff Pastor .......................... Reverend Michael J. Yadron, KCHS; Ext. 312 [email protected] Associate Pastor ............................... Reverend Ted J. Mauch; Ext. 314 [email protected] Senior Deacon............................................ Dr. Napoleon Tabion, OFS Deacons ................................................................ David Kapala, KHS ............................................................................ Joseph Stodola, KHS ......................................................................... Daniel Zurawski, KHS Director of Finance ........................................ Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Pastoral Care Coordinator ......... Deacon David Kapala, KHS; Ext. 313 Director of Music ......................................... Angie Lorandos; Ext. 338 Director of Religious Education .................... Emily Hackett; Ext. 332 Director of Development ................................ Amanda King; Ext. 342

Parish Office Staff Hours: Mon-Friday 8:00 am-8:00 pm • Saturday 8:00 am-4:00 pm Web Site .......................................................... www.stm-church.com Email address .................................. [email protected] Email address for bulletin ...................... [email protected] Office Phone………. 836-8610 Office Fax .................... 836-9185 Bulletin Editor ..................................................... Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309 Daytime Receptionist ........................................ Susan Strain; Ext. 310 Evening Receptionist .................................... Veronica Brtos; Ext. 310 Building Maintenance……………………...Mike Popovich 836-8610

Pastoral Ministries Environment & Art ............................................. Jean Bados 836-8610 Eucharistic Ministers ........................ Deacon Dan Zurawski 742-6005 Hospitality/Greeters ................................... Chris Shearman 923-1419 Lectors ...................................................... William McDunn 922-9459 Nursery .................................................. Kaaren A. Mashura 836-5079 St. Vincent de Paul ................................. Michael Martinelli 836-8610 Vocations Committee ...................................... Mary Kochis 322-7262

2014-2015 Pastoral Council Members Leslie Dernulc.................................................................. Joe Dubczak Wendy Jasinski ...........................................................Nancy Klawitter Christi Kordeck ................................... Michael Korfiatis, Chairperson Jim Landowski ......................................................... Jesse Montenegro Joe O’Brien .................................................................... Kurt Popovich Cheryl Staniszewski.................................................. Cindy Thompson

St. Thomas More School Pre-School through 8th Grade

Office Hours: Monday– Friday ~ 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Web Site ........................................................... www.stm-school.com School Phone ......... 836-9151 School Fax .......................... 836-0982 President ........................................................ Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Principal ............................................................... Jay Harker; Ext. 328 Assistant Principal ......................................... Cynthia Block; Ext. 328 School Administrative Assistant……….. Jennifer Gonzalez; Ext. 328 School Reception & Office Associate………. Sandra Steele; Ext. 329 Home & School Association .................. Kris Miller; (312) 909-8156 Parish & School Offices Associate .............. Mary Jo Biscan; Ext. 311 School Admissions .............................................. Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309

Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue ~ Munster, IN 46321

Phone ..................................................................................... 836-2660 Fax ......................................................................................... 836-2655

St. Thomas More Religious Education Kindergarten through 8th Grade

Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Friday — 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday & Thursday — 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Religious Education Phone ........................................................... 836-8610 Director .................................................................. Emily Hackett; Ext. 332 Administrative Assistant ..................................... Carolyn McGill; Ext. 336 Grades K through 8 ~ Wednesday or Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Pastoral Commissions Chairpersons Formation/Education ............................................................ Barbara Topete Parish Life ......................................................................... Elaine Herrmann Peace & Social Justice .............................................................. Mary Silvasi Spirituality & Worship ....................................................... Kaaren Mashura Stewardship ........................................................................... Noreen Bickel

Parish Organizations Altar & Rosary Society .................................... Kathleen Pagorek 972-0539 Blue Army ................................................... Rose Marie Malburg 836-8779 Boy Scouts ................................................................ Curt Anglin 902-5126 Career Networking Group…………………… Christine Spencer 836-8610 Circle of Prayer………………………………..Mary Jo Humpfer 836-5002 Cub Scouts ............................................................. Alan Pischner 306-7552 Finance ................................................................ Barbara Shaver 838-9200 Gabriel Project……………………………… Carolyn Grskovich 455-9258 Garden Club ............................................................ Paul Mazerik 644-8409 Gifts of Love & Warmth……………………..Bernadine Nemeth 513-6544 Girl Scouts ............................................................. Renee Whelan 796-6809 Holy Name Society ....................................................................... 836-8610 Knights of Columbus ............................. Brad Hemingway (708) 951-5492 K of C Columbian Squires……………...Brad Hemingway (708) 951-5492 Moms’ Group ................................................................................ 836-8610 Oblates……………………………………………...Denise Gard 836-9115 Respect Life .................................................................................. 836-8610 Senior Citizens ........................................................... Herb Cleve 670-2982 The Travelers Club…………………………………..Lois Quinn 836-7902 Ushers Club ..................................................... ….Jim Marmalejo 836-1463 Venture Crew……………………………………....Fr. Ben Ross 322-4505

St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 8501 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN 46321

Sacramental Information Confessions Saturdays ............................................................ 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. First Friday .............................. 1/2 hour before the 6:30 a.m. Mass Baptisms .............................. First and Third Sundays at 1:00 p.m.

Parents must be registered parishioners and regularly attending at least six months before the Baptism. At least one of the godparents must be a practicing Catholic.

Pre Baptism Class ..................................... 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Parents must call the Parish Office to schedule class and/or Baptism. Marriage .............. Must be a registered, practicing member of the parish at least six months before beginning the six month preparation program for marriage.

Communion calls and visits to Hospitals and Homebound: Call the Parish Office for Sacraments at hospital or at home.

New Parishioner Registration To make it as convenient as possible for you, new parishioners may

register at any time in the Parish Office.

Please remember St. Thomas More in your Will and Estate Planning

First Sunday of Advent November 29, 2015

Saturday, December 5 5:30 p.m. Fr. Ted Mauch

Sunday, December 6 6:30 a.m. Fr. Ted Mauch 8:00 a.m. Fr. Ted Mauch 10:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 12:00 Noon Fr. Mike Yadron

SUNDAY, November 29 — First Sunday of Advent 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Chester & Elizabeth Ross by Jim & Carol Zaczyk 10:00 am Deceased Members of the Andrzejewski & Picicci Families 12:00 pm George Krajci by Tim Krajci

MONDAY, November 30 — St. Andrew 6:30 am Ray Wolak by Phyllis Krizmanic 8:30 am Geraldine Lesko by Carole Gamaleri

TUESDAY, December 1 6:30 am Raymond Mueller (Ann.) by Family 8:30 am Joan C. Companik by Bill & Dorothy O’Brien 10:00 am Joseph T. Adams by STM Holy Name Society (MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 1)

WEDNESDAY, December 2 6:30 am Antonio Porras Sr. (Ann.) by Sylvester & Kathy Porras 8:30 am Ron Teutemacher by Joan Reck

THURSDAY, December 3 — St. Francis Xavier 6:30 am Josephine M. Wleklinski by Joann M. Wleklinski 9:00 am Antoni Rajkowski by Family

FRIDAY, December 4 — First Friday 6:30 am Olivia Perez de Alba by Sanchez Family 8:30 am Shirley O’Donnell by Jim & Jean Schreiner

SATURDAY, December 5 — First Saturday 8:30 am Eugene J. Szczepaniak (Ann.) by Family 5:30 pm Stephen Maicher by Daughters

SUNDAY, December 6 — Second Sunday of Advent 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Paul Graegin by Yvette Noe 10:00 am Gene Sepaniak by Family 12:00 pm Dorothy Purcell by Husband James F. Purcell

SATURDAY, December5 8:30 am A. Forszt, Matt Hrinda 5:30 pm M. Queroz, G. & I. Scalzo, B. & M. Andrzejewski/MC ~ Nick

SUNDAY, December 6 6:30 am S. Hamill, A. Klaich, E. Miller 8:00 am J. Cipowski, E. Gossman, G. Kenning, A. Nahnsen, B. Peters/ MC ~ Matt 10:00 am J. Hunt, O. Lerma, M. & R. Maldonado, S. O’Rourke/MC ~ Joey 12:00 pm E. Long, G. & T. O’Brien/MC ~ Elizabeth B.

Pastoral Care Ministry Sick, Homebound & Hospitalized

Please notify the Pastoral Care Ministry to arrange a visit by Pastoral Care for a hospitalized or homebound friend or relative

by contacting Deacon Dave Kapala, Pastoral Care Coordinator at (219) 836-8610, ext. 313

or [email protected].

Bulletin Articles The holiday season is upon us and printing deadlines are fast

approaching. To insure that your information is in the appropriate bulletin, please submit articles at least 2 weeks in advance to

[email protected]. Thank you for your help!

December Nursery Schedule

Sunday, December 6 Ann Harkenrider

Katherine Pala & Laci Pala

Sunday, December 13 Kim Cipowski

Lisa Jorsch

Sunday, December 20 Michelle Wendlinger

Susie Kinsella

Friday, December 25 Merry Christmas!

Nursery Closed

Sunday, December 27 Jill Bochenek

Kaaren Mashura

Located in the Bride’s Room at the

Sunday 10:00 am Mass. Contact Kaaren Mashura

at (219) 836-5079 or [email protected] to

volunteer.

Campaign for Human Development Thank you for your contributions to the collection for the

Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD)! Your generous gifts will help CCHD end poverty in the United States

through better education, improved housing and economic development. Through CCHD and its beneficiaries, we

demonstrate Catholic social teaching and carry out Jesus’ mission to “bring glad tidings to the poor . . . to proclaim liberty to

captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free” (Lk 4:18).

lease pray for the sick of our parish... c Joshua Alvarez

Margaret Amatulli Frieda Andersen

Doris Aurelio Maria Aurelio

Antonio Belmonte Michael Berry

Michael Blazevich Laverne Blumka Michael Boston Cheryl Bostrom

Robert Boyle Linda Braun

Stephany Burney Paul Burns

Dorothy Campbell James Campbell

Thomas Cak Al Carollo

Carol Carollo Janet Cattanach

Jacqueline Morrow Christian

Frank Coman James Coppolillo Vincent Corsello

Mike Curtain Margaret Demkovich

Lucille Detterline Irene Dettmer Ann DeVoy

MaryPat Devoy Jeanine Doescher

Jim D’Orazio Alex Eiland

Tom Engwert Sherlon Evans

John Forde Phyllis Garber Denise Gard

Andrea Garritano Margaret Geary

Dorothy Giannini Emily Gibson

Dorothy Gillespie Shirley Gillespie Margaret Good

Howard Gralewski Margaret Gray

Susan Graff James Grunewald

Amy Hayes Eleanore Heggi Marie Henke

Evelyn Hennes Marisol Hernandez

Becky Hill Joan Hoess

Megan Homcho Mary Jo Humpfer Betty Ingbretson

Steve Izzo Dennis Jablonski Elizabeth Jacob Barbara Jamrose Stanley Jayjack

Rosemary Jerzak Carol Keilman

James Klein, Sr. Janet Knight

Susan Kolodziej Miller Krizmanic Annika LeMonier Chris LeMonier

Debbie LeMonier Nicklas LeMonier

Mary Leahy Jo Lisiniewicz

Edward Liskiewicz Stanley Liskiewicz

Maria Lovell Marilyn Madsen Charlene Madura Mary Manchak Brady Martin

Jenny Mendoza Faye Meny Sandi Merlo Olga Mihalo

Ann Miskovich Andrew Moll Elissa Moll David Moll Jean Narvid

Donna Nichols Steven Nowaczyk

Clare O’Brien Valerie O’Donnell

Danny Ogren Emily Orosco

Maryann Pancheri James Pancheri Marty Pavovic

Johanna Petruch Andrew Pieczyrak Elizabeth Pilones Sylvester Porras Timothy Ribble

Jackie Roach Kristen Rubin Ann Sardella George Sauer Marie Schultz

Marianne Schwartz William Schwartz

Zachery Scriff James Secviar

Jim Seul Renee Shehan Nick Skinner

Lydia Skorupa Carolyn Smiley Deborah Stareck Georgianne Suto

Celine Szczepaniak Florence Stevens Carrie Szumelda

Barbara Szypczak Rose Theis

Gerardo Trevino Kathie Trudgian Anthony Ubuane

Tony Vanden Heuvel Raymond Vanderbok

Julia Vrbanich Adele Wall

Charlotte Weglewski Stephanie Wisniewski

Don Woszczynski Cecilia Ziegler

Cody Ziemkowski

SUNDAY, November 29 — First Sunday of Advent 6:00 pm Advent Prayer Service ~ Church St. Vincent de Paul Food Collection at All Masses

MONDAY, November 30 7:00 pm Schola Choir ~ Church 7:00 pm Blue Army ~ Chapel

TUESDAY, December 1 8:30 am All School Mass of the Toys 9:15 am Eucharistic Adoration (until 6:30 pm) 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations ~ Chapel 6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet ~ Chapel 7:00 pm RCIA ~ Conference Room 7:00 pm STMS Christmas Program (K- 3rd) ~ Gym

WEDNESDAY, December 2 9:30 am Bible Study ~ Conference Room 4:30 pm Religious Formation Classes (until 6:00 pm) 5:00 pm RCIC ~ Teachers’ Lounge 6:00 pm Handbells ~ Church

THURSDAY, December 3 4:30 pm Religious Formation Classes (until 6:00 pm) 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale ~ Church

FRIDAY, December 4 9:00 am Gifts of Love & Warmth ~ Conference Room 6:00 pm STMS Pizza with Santa ~ Gym

SATURDAY, December 5 8:00 am First Saturday Rosary ~ Church 9:00 am –3:00 pm—Santa’s Secret Shop in the Solar Room 7:00 pm STMS Junior High Dance

SUNDAY, December 6 — Second Sunday of Advent 6:00 pm Advent Prayer Service ~ Church

First Sunday of Advent "But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your

heads because your redemption is at hand." Jesus instructs his disciples to take this posture of confidence in the midst of a terribly

disturbing situation. Describing his second coming, Jesus says that on seeing this event unfold, "People will die of fright." And yet the

disciples are supposed to be pillars of strength. While others cower in fear, the Lord's followers are somehow immune, with heads raised

high. Why? Well, presumably, because those who follow Christ--those who earn the distinction of being disciples--have nothing to fear. On

the contrary, when they have to "stand before the Son of Man," it will be a happy occasion. But here's the catch: "disciple" is more than an

empty title. If we want to be counted among this confident crew, there are a few things for us to do. Today's Gospel spells out these tasks,

which are all perfect things to pursue during Advent. First, we have to make sure that our "hearts do not become drowsy."

We are called to stay awake in a spiritual sense, not allowing "carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life" to numb us.

We need to avoid whatever might reduce our ability to recognize and relate to Jesus, because we don't want his appearance to catch us "by surprise like a trap." Advent is an ideal time to examine our lives to

determine what activities, priorities, or pastimes might be putting our hearts to sleep. Secondly, we need to pray. We need to ask Jesus

himself for "the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man." We can't do it alone. But with

Christ's help, we can be true, fearless disciples.

Readings for Week of November 29 Sunday: Jer 33:14-16/Ps 25:4-5, 8-10, 14/1 Thes 3:12--4:2/ Lk 21:25-28, 34-36 Monday: Rom 10:9-18/Ps 19:8-11/Mt 4:18-22 Tuesday: Is 11:1-10/Ps 72:1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17/Lk 10:21-24 Wednesday: Is 25:6-10a/Ps 23:1-6/Mt 15:29-37 Thursday: Is 26:1-6/Ps 118:1, 8-9, 19-21, 25-27/Mt 7:21, 24-27 Friday: Is 29:17-24/Ps 27:1, 4, 13-14/Mt 9:27-31 Saturday: Is 30:19-21, 23-26/Ps 147:1-6/Mt 9:35--10:1, 5a, 6-8 Next Sunday: Bar 5:1-9/Ps 126:1-6/Phil 1:4-6, 8-11/Lk 3:1-6

Eucharistic Ministers Needed If you are interested in assisting your parish

by serving at God’s table consider becoming a St. Thomas More Eucharistic

Minister. To learn more, please contact

Deacon Dan Zurawski at (219) 742-6005 or email: [email protected].

The Pastor’s Page

PLEASE REMEMBER THEM Please pray for the priests and deacons who have served the Diocese of Gary so faithfully and whose anniversaries of death are this week:

December 1: Rev. Wilfred P. Mannion (1959) Rev. Francis M. Lazar (2007) December 3: Msgr. Leo P. Hildebrandt (1979) Rev. Chester P. Zurawiec (1993) December 4: Rev. Anthony J. Suelzer (1995) Msgr. Ralph Hoffman (2000)

ON THE LIGHTER SIDE A rookie police officer was assigned to a cruiser with an experienced partner. A call came over the car’s radio telling them to disperse some people who were loitering. The rookie drove to the street and observed a small crowd standing on a corner. The new officer looked at his partner and then rolled down his window and said, “Let’s get off this corner.” No one moved. So, he shouted to the group, “Let’s get off this corner!” Intimidated, the people began to leave, casting puzzled glances in his direction. Proud of his first official act, the young policeman turned to his partner and asked, “Well, how did I do?” “Pretty good,” replied the veteran, “especially since this is a bus stop.”

THE ADVENT WREATH To mark the passing of the weeks, it has been traditional to make an Advent Wreath. Today, and each day this week, light one purple candle on the wreath and pray: Loving Father, we await the coming of your Son, Jesus. Help us to use the holy season wisely so that we will be prepared for the day of His return. This we ask through our Lord, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen After lighting the candle, sing a verse of this popular Advent hymn: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel. That mourns in lonely exile here, until the Son of God appear. Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel.

WE BEGIN ANEW

“Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Lk 21:34-36)

For the past few weeks, we have been reflecting upon the end of time. We have been warned that the Son of Man would come like a thief in the night and that we needed to be ready so that we would not be caught unaware. Those readings were being given to us because we were approaching the end of the liturgical year.

This weekend, we begin anew. The First Sunday of Advent heralds a new year, a new hope, a new promise, and a new opportunity. However, the new year begins as our old year ended: “Beware”.

We often become so focused upon ourselves that we fail to see the bigger picture. We turn our thoughts inwards and, in the process, miss the people all around us. We fail to see the plight of the poor, the pain of the suffering and sorrowing, and the emptiness of the lonely. We even fail to see the needs of our own loved ones when we focus too closely upon ourselves.

Today gives us the opportunity to change. In remaining vigilant, we will see the needs of others and be able to provide for them.

As we do at the beginning of a new calendar, we are invited this weekend to make spiritual resolutions so that this new liturgical year may be one of profound growth.

Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has declared a Year of Mercy. Perhaps our first resolution could be to embrace the mercy of God completely. Seek His mercy in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Give His mercy to those who have hurt you. Be merciful as He is merciful. Doing so will practically guarantee that we will never be caught unaware.

FAITH ACTION: Is there someone in your life who could use some mercy? Make a true effort to forgive.

TAIZÉ PRAYER You are invited to come to the church at 6:00 p.m. this evening for Taizé Prayer. This peaceful, contemplative prayer helps one to calm the soul so that we may better hear the Lord when He speaks to us.

Religious Education

December Schedule 2/3 Class 7 Confirmation Retreat—All 8th Grade Students 8:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the STM Gym 9/10 Class 16/17 Class 23/24 No Class — Christmas Break 30/31 No Class — Happy New Year!

January Schedule 6/7 Class 13/14 Class 20/21 Class 27/28 Class

St. Vincent DePaul Society The Christmas season is upon us and we all look forward to the

joy that this season brings. As we look

around, let us reflect on the many gifts that

God has given us. Please consider

sharing your gifts with us, the

St. Vincent de Paul Society, as we prepare

to provide food for others during this holiday season.

Any contributions you make are appreciated!

Pumpkin Cranberries

Boxed Stuffing Mix

Boxed Potatoes

Rice Meal Helpers

Macaroni & Cheese Canned Meat Canned Fish

Soup Toilet Paper

Bar Soap Liquid Dish Soap

Shampoo

We are currently in need of the following items:

Thanks for your ongoing generosity!

Lectors for the Week

Saturday, December 5 5:30 pm Mass

Jennifer Feddeler & Jay Gianotti

Sunday, December 6 6:30 am Mass

John Brooks & Robert Hill

8:00 am Mass Don Dulkoski & Jim Kaspar

10:00 am Mass Julie Javorka & Jesse Montenegro

12:00 Noon Mass Bernadine Barrett & Marilyn Pajor

Saturday, December 5 5:30 pm Mass

Main: Bill & Chris Retseck Chapel: Don & Carol

Kopenec Choir: Ed Lebryk &

Judy Millspaugh

Sunday, December 6 6:30 am Mass

Main: Leilani Suchanuk Chapel: Tom & Linda Brady

8:00 am Mass Main: Dennis & Karen McNeil

Chapel: Art & Mary Halpin Choir: Rosemary Barker

10:00 am Mass Main: Jose & Paula Serrano

Chapel: Miller Family Choir: Joe Arent

12:00 Noon Mass Chapel: Dominique Mercier

Greeters for the Week

1D2G Youth Ministry Join us this December when we visit the

residents of Munster Med-Inn for Christmas Caroling — Sunday, December 13th 3:00-4:00 p.m. at the Med-Inn, 7935 Calumet in Munster.

Please RSVP for this event. We invite all 8th graders to join us!

Earn valuable service project hours for Confirmation. To learn more or to RSVP, please email

Miss Emily Hackett at [email protected] .

Catholic Charities Counseling Catholic Charities offers counseling services to

individuals, families and children on a sliding fee scale. For more information please call

(219) 844-4883.

Vocations Committee How can we build a better world?

What can we do to diminish the violence, prejudice, discrimination & substance abuse, etc. and help people to live

Christian lives, have a deep love for Christ, the Church and the poor? Let us change this crisis today affecting Catholic life and bring joy, reconciliation and hope.

You Did It For Me Laurie* never imagined she’d be homeless but after being laid

off her life turned upside down. After she entered an emergency shelter program, she says, “I cried for four days.”

But she never lost hope, and thanks to the compassion and dignity she felt from her local Catholic Charities, she was able

to get back on her feet and into her own home. “If you’re willing to help yourself, they will help you.” In 2014, Catholic Charities agencies across the country provided housing

services to more than 524,000 people in need. To learn more, visit

www.CatholicCharitiesUSA.org

St. Thomas More School November 29, 2015

St. Thomas More School’s

A feast for the eyes; a treat for the ears!

Another outstanding St. Thomas More School musical production ended Sunday night as 175 students brought the story of Disney’s

The Lion King, Jr. to life. Our talented group of participants graced the

stage as actors and chorus, worked backstage in make-up, costuming and props, operated the lights and sound boards and served as “house” crew, in addition to a myriad of other jobs, to make this

another unforgettable student musical. Our deepest appreciation to the many parents and alumni who helped from building sets to sewing costumes to feeding our hungry cast and crew.

We could not have done this without you! And, or course, great thanks to our extremely

talented, creative and hard-working directors, Angie Lorandos, Kristyn Estes, Laura Javorka,

Jennifer Lundin and Pat Fointno. We can’t wait to see what you come up with

for next year! Bravo everyone! Find more photos of the musical on the

St. Thomas More Church & School Facebook page.

Senior Citizens Any senior citizen in our parish who is interested in being a part

of our fun and energetic group is encouraged to attend one of our upcoming meetings.

Meetings are held at 1:00 p.m. in the Kish Community Room, 10000 Calumet Avenue in Munster, unless otherwise noted.

Travelers Club

Christmas Shopping Trip on December 10th

Making stops at the Aurora Outlet Mall in Aurora, IL and Little Travelers in Geneva, IL

Bus leaves 8:30 a.m. • Arrives home 5:00 p.m. Only $24 per person

Who can resist a Christmas shopping trip? Join us as we travel to Illinois to get the best Christmas shopping

deals at some great shopping venues! The Outlet Mall is a great

place to find great selection and good prices. Little

Travelers is a home beautifully decorated for Christmas, offering many

small rooms inside the home where they display

interesting and very unusual gifts; a true

“Winter Wonderland”. What an opportunity this will be for us to find “just

the right gifts” for the special people on our

Christmas lists. The cost of the trip includes, transportation and gratuities.

Lunch will be on your own and you may have lunch inside Little Travelers or lunch in one of the many restaurants nearby.

Please sign up at the STM parish office as soon as possible, mark your calendars for December 10th and join us for a day of

merriment. Remember, we always park in the north parking lot.

Help Others This Christmas Giving Tree at St. Thomas More

The Lucky Clovers 4-H Club of St. Thomas More is sponsoring a Giving Tree at our parish. Helping is as easy as 1-2-3.

We have received the names of 75 people through Catholic Charities who are in need of gifts this Christmas. These may be the only gifts that they receive. If you would like to help make

Christmas a little brighter for someone in need: 1. Take an ornament from our tree on November 29th

You can find the tree in the choir entrance vestibule. 2. Purchase one of the gifts requested.

3. Return your wrapped gift by December 13th Attach the ornament to your wrapped gift and place it in a

designated box near the choir entrance. Your generosity will brighten someone’s life this holiday season.

Wednesday, December 9th Christmas Luncheon

12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. at Teibel’s Restaurant. Advance reservations required.

(please make payment with your reservation) Cost: Lake Perch Dinner- $20/person

Chicken or Beef Tips- $15/person

STM Career Networking Group

Where: STM Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue • Munster, IN

When: The 3rd Thursday of Every Month Time: 7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m. Email: [email protected]

Regular Meetings are Free! Open to All! For those who are unemployed (in transition), new to the job

market, employed but changing careers or those who can offer employment opportunities through their current professional

connections. Have your cover letter, resume or thank you note critiqued by a professional.

Thursday, December 17, 2015 7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m.

80% of Jobs are Unadvertised 82% of Jobs are found through Networking

15% Found through Search Firms • 10% Found through Want Ads 4% Create Their Own Jobs • 2% Blindly Send Resumes

Worldwide Marriage Encounter Let us all be thankful for the gift of our vocation. Learn how to enrich your vocation of Marriage by attending an enrichment

made just for you. Upcoming Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekends take place in Elk Grove Village, IL on these dates:

December 11-13 or February 12-14 or April 8-10. Early registration recommended. Call Jim & Kris at 630-577-0778 or

contact us through http://wwme-chicagoland.org .

Respect Life Corner

Upcoming Election On December 14, at our General Membership Meeting, an

election will be held for three Board member positions replacing those whose terms have expired. Nominations are currently being accepted and need to be submitted to the Lake County

Right to Life office before Monday, December 14. Nomination must first be approved by nominee. Only members who have paid their dues are eligible to vote. Annual dues are $10.00 and

may be paid to the LCRTL office.

Middle School Oratory Contest Middle school students are encouraged to participate in our

annual Middle School Oratory Contest. Saturday, December 12th—1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Lake Public Library-Highland Branch • 2841 Jewett Street

Caps for Kids The Northwest Indiana Catholic newspaper is accepting

donations of new or handmade winter caps, gloves, mittens, and scarves for its 18th annual Caps for Kids campaign. These

donations are sorted and distributed to area needy by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, social service agencies and other groups.

Monetary donations also help in the purchase of these items.

Donations are being accepted until December 18th. at the Pastoral Center, 9292 Broadway in Merrillville.

Contact (769) 9292 x249 or [email protected] for details.

We are getting closer to our goal, thanks to our generous parishioners, but we can’t complete our campaign without your continued assistance. By returning your Pledge Card as soon as

possible, you keep our campaign moving forward. Pledge cards can be mailed, turned in to the Parish Office or

placed in the Sunday collection basket. Thank you, as always, for your generous support of this

important parish project. Our church and school depend on it!

Altar & Rosary Society Pot Luck Dinner

Wednesday, December 9th in the Solar Room Meeting starts at 6:45 p.m. with the Rosary.

All women attending are asked to bring their favorite main dish or vegetable.

Altar & Rosary will provide the desserts. Speaker: Officer Jim Ghrist

Officer Ghrist of the Munster Police Department will be giving us a presentation

on staying safe from scams, credit card & identity theft around the holidays.

Door prizes after the presentation. Please bring new children’s hats, scarves & gloves.

Knights of Columbus 5th Sunday Rosary Service

Join the Knights of Columbus Msgr. Weis Council Today, Sunday, November 29th in the Chapel

after the 12:00 Noon Mass. All members of our parish are invited.

Finger Rosaries will be available. Take a few minutes for yourself during the busy and joyous

holiday season. For more information, please contact Brad Hemingway at (708) 951-5492.

Join the Knights of Columbus If you are interested in joining the Knights of Columbus,

please contact Brad Hemingway at (708) 951-5492.

Wreath Stands & Tree Stands —$10. We have proudly kept the same prices since 2002.

Make checks payable to: Knights of Columbus

Thank you for your support.

Scotch Pine 6 to 7 Feet $25

Douglas Fir Tree 6, 7 or 8 Feet $40

Frasier Fir Tree 6 to 7 Feet $55




Wreath w/Bow Small (12”) $20

Wreath w/Bow Large (16”) $25

Wreath — Noble w/Bow Small (12”) $25

Wreath — Noble w/Bow Large (16”) $30

Frasier Fir Rope/Garland Per Foot $1

Decorated Wreath 3’ Diameter $75 Special Order Limited No.

Knights of Columbus Christmas Tree & Wreath Sale

Monday-Friday: 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. • Sunday: 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Holy Name Society We look forward to seeing many parishioners, current and new

members at our next meeting on

Wednesday, December 16th at 7:00 p.m. Solar Room for the Rosary and regular business meeting with

refreshments to follow. Join us before the Christmas holidays for spiritual renewal.

Help Wanted at St. Thomas More 1. Building Maintenance Position

Duties include the maintenance and repair of the St. Thomas More church and school buildings & grounds. The ideal candidate must

have experience in electrical, plumbing, construction and with HVAC systems. Requirements: Reliable transportation, a

valid driver’s license and the ability to lift at least 50 lbs. Hours: Monday to Friday, 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.

Some weekends and after-hours work may be required. Questions? Please call (219) 836-8610 for more information.

Send cover letter and resume to: [email protected]

2. Assistant Cook—School Cafeteria The STM School Cafeteria has a job opening for a part-time

Assistant Cook, beginning on January 5, 2016. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. daily, while school is in session.

Responsibilities include: preparing all salads and vegetables for the day, serving student lunches and helping with clean-up. Some heavy lifting is involved (30-40 lbs.), as well as standing for most of the day. Virtus Training is required; ServSafe Certification will

be required within the first year. Interested individuals should fill out an application available in the

Parish or School Offices. Questions should be directed to Linda Murray, Cafeteria Manager at (219) 836-9151, ext. 324 or

[email protected].

3. Part-Time Custodians Responsibilities include: cleaning offices, classrooms and restrooms, as well as event set-ups for church and school. Requirements: Must have experience in cleaning in a

commercial setting, be able to use various types of floor machines, read and follow directions and have reliable transportation

with a valid driver’s license. Position One:

Hours: Monday through Thursday 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and Sunday, 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Position Two: Hours: Monday through Friday 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.

If interested in either of these two Part-Time Custodian positions, please apply in person at the STM Parish Office:

St. Thomas More Church • 8501 Calumet Avenue • Munster Questions? Please contact Karla Baldwin at (219) 836-8610, #331.

Bishop Noll Institute 2015 “Reach for the Stars” Raffle

Grand Prize — $20,000 2nd Prize -$5,000 • 3rd Prize -$2,000

4th-7th Prizes - $500 Tickets are only $10 each (available in the STM Parish Office).

Proceeds to benefit BNI scholarships. Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!

Drawing is December 1, 2015. Winner need not be present.

To learn more, please contact the school at (219) 932-9058.

Andrean High School Entrance Exam

Andrean High School is holding its first Entrance Exam for the Class of 2020 on

Saturday, December 5th from 8:00-11:30 a.m. All incoming freshmen are required to take the exam before

admittance to Andrean High School for the 2016-2017 school year.

Please enter through entrance M in the back of the school. Bring two #2 pencils. No calculators allowed.

There is NO FEE for our exam. No pre-registration required.

For more information contact Dawn @ 887-5959 ext. 228 or [email protected].

Planting Possibilities Help Planting Possibilities by

participating in Whole Foods-Schererville “One Dime at a Time”

Program Now through December 31st.

Shoppers who bring a reusable bag/s to the check-out can donate 10¢ to

Planting Possibilities. Be sure to tell the cashier!

Thanks for helping our organization!

Christmas Flower Memorials Donations for Christmas Flower Memorials will be taken until

Friday, December 11th at 9:00 a.m. Please return this form, or use the envelope in your packet, with your donation.

Place in the collection basket or return to the Parish Office no later than December 11th. Extra forms will be available in the office. Each memorial is $10.00.

In Memory of__________________________________________________________________

Donated by____________________________________________________________________

Amount Enclosed ($10 Each) $____________________________________________________

Estate Planning Luncheon “Estate Planning: The A,B,Cs” will be presented by Cal Bellamy of

Krieg DeVault LLP on Thursday, December 3rd from 12:00 Noon-1:00 p.m. at White Hawk Country Club in Crown Point. This free event is sponsored by Calumet College of St.

Joseph. Includes lunch. Reservations are required: (219) 473-4318 or development @ccsj.edu by Monday, November 30th.

Faustina: Messenger of Divine Mercy This moving, live production performed by actress Maria Vargo brings to life the relevant story of St. Faustina’s encounter with Jesus. Presented at St. John the Evangelist Church on Thursday,

December 3rd at 7:00 p.m. Admission is $10. For tickets and info, contact the parish at (219) 365-5678 or [email protected].

Holiday Cookie Walk The Hospice of the Calumet Area’s Holiday Cookie Walk is

Saturday, December 5th at 9:00 a.m. at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 8955 Columbia Avenue in Munster (across from The Community Hospital). Large assortment of homemade holiday cookies will be sold for $8.00 a pound. Doors open at 9:00 a.m. sharp. Come early for a good selection! If you can bake, please

contact Volunteer Coordinator Cynthia Camp at Hospice: (708)895-8332 or (219) 922-2732. Deliver cookies to Westminster

on Friday, December 4th, between 4:00 & 7:00 p.m. (use south entrance). Please include name of cookie & if nuts are included.

All Saints Church Pierogi Sale, $5/dozen until December 7th (pick-up 12/11 at

2:00 p.m.) Cookie Sale the weekend of December 5/6 before and after all Masses in the church. Small box-$5/large box $10.

Call the parish at (219) 932-0204 for more information.

St. James Parish Events Holiday Craft Fair & Bake/Pierogi Sale

December 5 from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. in the Parish Hall, 9640 Kennedy Avenue in Highland (corner of 45th &Kennedy). Find nut & poppy seed rolls, strudels, clothespin cookies, crepes, kolacky &

roshky, pierogi, nut & fruit breads & other holiday items. No advance orders. Light lunch in Santa's Snack Bar. Lots of vendors;

something for everyone from jewelry to holiday décor. Limited

number of vendors spaces available (contact Diane at (219) 924-1778 if interested). For info: Helen at (219) 924-5783.

K of C St. Valentine’s Dinner & Dance Early tickets are now being sold for the St. Valentine’s Day Dinner

& Dance on February 13th from 8:00 p.m. to Midnight in the Parish Hall. Tickets are advance sale only. $80/couple includes:

dinner buffet, dessert, favors and open bar. Doors open at 5:30 p.m./Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Music from 8:00 p.m. to Midnight. Tickets: Daniel at (219) 801-5250 or Robert at (219) 776-8773.

Weekly Pierogi Sale Order homemade pierogi from St. Josaphat Ukranian Church by calling (219) 838-9811 prior to Thursday (choose from potato, kraut, cheese or prune). Leave your name, phone number and

amount/flavor you’d like. Pick-up on Friday Noon to 4:00 p.m. at the church. Pierogis are $9.00/dozen or $4.50/half-dozen. Note: No orders will be taken during the week of Thanksgiving and

between December 18th and mid-January, so order early.

St. Matthias Events End of Life Planning Series: Plan for the future by attending this Funeral Planning session at 7:00 p.m. on December 12th,

101 W. Burrell in Crown Point. RSVP required: (219) 663-2201.

Polish Advent & Christmas Customs Join Rev. Walter Rakoczy of St. Mary of the Immaculate

Conception in Michigan City for his presentation, “Polish Advent & Christmas Customs” to be held at St. Mary School, 321 W. 11th Street in Michigan City (use entrance at 11th & Buffalo Streets) at

both 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 13th and 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 16th Admission is free, but seating is

limited. Reservations required by December 11th: (219) 873-1320.

Wigilia Christmas Luncheon The Polish Women's Alliance District 3 Wigilia Christmas Luncheon is set for Sunday, December19th at the Carmelite

Banquet Hall, 1628 Ridge Road in Munster. Doors open at Noon, with lunch served at 1:00 p.m. Tickets are $35 for adults and $17.50 for children (ages 5 to 11). Proceeds will benefit the

organization's scholarship fund. Reservations are due by December 14th by calling Dolly Huneycutt at (219) 218-4420.

It’s So Easy to Order Gift Cards for the Holidays!

Processing Dates:

Monday, November 30 Monday, December 7

Monday, December 14 December 14th will be the last processing day

before Christmas.

Questions? Please contact our T.RI.P.

Volunteer Coordinator: [email protected].

The St. Thomas More School T.R.I.P. program is offered to all STM parishioners and friends. Enjoy the convenience of “one stop shopping” this holiday season by purchasing gift cards for

stores, dining, gas, grocery, lodging and services, too.

What is T.R.I.P? The T.R.I.P. Program at St. Thomas More is a simple way to

purchase gift cards: You pay nothing extra, as all gift cards are at face value (a $25 gift card costs you $25). The vendors pay St. Thomas More School a small percentage for offering this

service, so it helps our school, too. Sign up online, then simply place your order in the Parish Office on Monday mornings before 9:00 a.m. It will be waiting for you on Wednesday

afternoon after 3:00 p.m. Gift cards are sold at face-value, so it costs you nothing to use this service. Go to the St. Thomas More School website (under “Parents” tab) for details and get started now!

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday 1

8:30 am All School Mass of the Toys

9:15 am-6:30 pm Eucharistic Adoration Chapel

1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations-- Chapel

6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet Chapel

7:00 pm RCIA-Conference Room

7:00 pm K- 3rd Christmas Program Gym

2 9:30 am Bible Study Conference Room 4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes 5:00 pm RCIC Teachers’ Lounge 6:00 pm Handbells-Church

3 4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale Church

4 9:00 am Gifts of Love/Warmth Conference Room

6:00 p.m. STMS

Pizza with Santa Gym

5 8:00 am First Saturday Rosary Church

9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Santa’s Secret Shop

Solar Room 7:00 pm STMS Junior High Dance Gym

6 6:00 pm Advent Evening Prayer Church

7 8:15 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

8th Grade Confirmation

Retreat STM Gym

5:30 p.m.

Vigil Mass Immaculate Conception

7:00 pm Schola Choir-Church

7:00 pm Blue Army-Chapel

8 Feast of

Immaculate Conception

Masses: 6:30 & 9:00 a.m. 5:00 & 7:00 p.m.

10:00 am to 4:30 pm Eucharistic Adoration Chapel 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations Chapel

9 9:30 am Bible Study Conference Room

4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes

5:00 pm RCIC-Teachers’ Lounge

6:00 pm Handbells-Church

6:45 pm Altar & Rosary Solar Room

7:00 pm SVDP-Conference Rm

10 4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale Church

7:30 p.m. STMS

Band Concert Gym

11 9:30 a.m.

STMS Band Concert

Gym 9:00 am Gifts of Love/Warmth Conference Room 6:30 pm 4-H Club Cafeteria

12 9:00 am Pastoral Council Conference Room 10:00 am Oblates Teachers’ Lounge

13 6:00 pm Advent Evening Prayer Church

14 7:00 pm Vocation Committee Conference Room 7:00 pm Schola Choir Church 7:00 pm Blue Army Chapel 7:30 pm Knights of Columbus Solar Room

15 9:15 am-6:30 pm Eucharistic Adoration Chapel 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations Chapel 6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet Chapel

Penance Service 7:00 p.m. Church

16 9:30 am Bible Study Conference Room

4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes

5:00 pm RCIC Teachers’ Lounge

6:00 pm Handbells-Church

7:00 pm Holy Name Solar Room

17 4:30—6:00 pm Religious Formation Classes 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale Church 7:00 pm Career Networking Weis Center

18 9:00 am Gifts of Love/Warmth Conference Room

19

20

6:00 p.m. Lessons & Carols

Church

21 7:00 pm Schola Choir Church

7:00 pm Blue Army Chapel

22 9:15 am-6:30 pm Eucharistic Adoration Chapel

1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations Chapel


23 24 Christmas

Eve Masses:

6:30 & 9:00 a.m.

5:30 p.m. Vigil Mass for

Christmas

25 Merry

Christmas! Masses:

12:00 Midnight 6:30, 8:00 & 10:00 a.m.

and 12:00 Noon

26

27 St. Vincent de Paul

Food Collection All Masses

28 7:00 pm Blue Army-Chapel 7:30 pm Knights of Columbus Solar Room

29 9:15 am-6:30 pm Eucharistic Adoration Chapel

1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations Chapel


30 31

New Year’s Eve

Masses: 6:30 & 9:00 a.m.

5:30 p.m.

Vigil Mass for New Year’s

January 1

Happy New Year

Masses: 6:30, 8:00 &

10:00 a.m. and 12:00 Noon

Christmas Break • No School • No Religious Education Classes

Parish Office Closed

Christmas Break • No School • No Religious Education Classes

Parish Office Closed

December 2 0 1 5

Merry Christmas

First Sunday of Advent - stm-church.com · 11/29/2015 · SUNDAY, November 29 — First Sunday of...

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