Page

Let us pledge to be the instruments of Christ’s love by the manner in which we live our lives.

Page 2

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. 2312 myadron@stm-church.com Priest In Residence ................ Reverend Andrew J. Corona; Ext. 2314 acorona@stm-church.com Senior Deacon............................................ Dr. Napoleon Tabion, OFS Senior Deacon.................................................. Daniel Zurawski, KHS Deacons ................................................................ David Kapala, KHS ............................................................................ Joseph Stodola, KHS Director of Finance ...................................... Noreen Bickel; Ext. 2330 Pastoral Care Coordinator .......Deacon David Kapala, KHS; Ext. 2315 Director of Music ....................................... Angie Lorandos; Ext. 2338 Director of Religious Education .................. Emily Hackett; Ext. 2232

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. 2232 Administrative Assistant ............................... Rosemary Strimbu; Ext. 2236

Grades K through 8 • Wednesday or Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Pastoral Commissions Chairpersons Formation/Education .............................................................. Allen Blocher Parish Life ......................................................................... Elaine Herrmann Peace & Social Justice ................................................................ Mari Casas Spirituality & Worship ....................................................... Kaaren Mashura Stewardship .......................................................................... Paul Liszewski

Parish Organizations

Altar & Rosary Society ....................................... Cindy Keilman 923-9862 Boy Scouts......................................................... PJ Caraher (219) 838-2943 Career Networking Group…………………… Jim Kaczka (219) 201-0335 Circle of Prayer…………………………………..Carolyn Cenko 741-2509 carolynrealtor@sbcglobal.net Cub Scouts ……………………...Kevin Ranos Kevin.ranos@sbcglobal.net Finance ................................................................ Barbara Shaver 838-9200 Gabriel Project………………………………... Marilyn Glennon 801-6586 Garden Club ............................................................ Paul Mazerik 644-8409 Gifts of Love & Warmth……………………..Bernadine Nemeth 513-6544 Girl Scouts ............................................................. Renee Whelan 796-6809 Holy Name Society ..................................................... Bill Burke 322-6462 Knights of Columbus ...................................... Joe Janostak (219) 923-3699 Oblates………………………………………...Denise Gard (219)201-4103 Respect Life .................................................. Leslie Dernulc (219)741-3739 Senior Citizens .................................................... Bob O’Donnell 877-5050 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 Welcome to the St. Thomas More parish family!

To make it as convenient as possible for you, new parishioners may register at any time in the

Parish Office.

St. Thomas More Parish Website: www.stm-church.com

Parish Office Staff

Hours: Mon-Friday 8:00 am-8:00 pm • Saturday 8:00 am-2:00 pm Email address .................................. parish.office@stm-church.com Email address for bulletin ...................... bulletin@stm-church.com Office Phone………. 836-8610 Office Fax ................... 836-9185 Bulletin Editor ................................................... Pam Pasyk; Ext. 2309 Daytime Receptionist ...................................... Susan Strain; Ext. 2300 Evening Receptionist ........................................................... .Ext. 2330 Building Maintenance…………..Mike Popovich 836-8610, Ext. 2313 Custodial Supervisor…………….Karla Baldwin 836-8610, Ext. 2331

Pastoral Ministries Environment & Art ...................................... Susan Gryfakis 688-8209 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

2018-2019 Pastoral Council Members Thomas Alexander ................................................... Bernadine Barrett Carolyn Cenko ............................................................... Diane DeSoto Deborah Jarvis ................................................................... Tim Jevyak Jim Kaspar .................................................................. Christi Kordeck Paul Liszewski .................................................................... Eric Miller Dwight Reed ................................................. Jim Secviar, Chairperson

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

Office Hours: Monday– Friday • 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Website ............................................................ www.stm-school.com School Phone ......... 836-9151 School Fax ......................... 836-0982 President ...................................................... Noreen Bickel; Ext. 2330 Principal ............................................ Dr. Samantha Francis; Ext. 2258 School Administrative Assistant………..Jennifer Gonzalez; Ext. 2200 School Reception & Office Associate……Nereida Harretos; Ext. 2201 School Parent Association………...Shannon Pischner; (219) 306-7551 Parish & School Offices Associate………...Mary Jo Biscan; Ext. 2311 School Admission……………………………... Pam Pasyk; Ext. 2309 Director of Development………………….…Karen Leluga; Ext. 2307 Business Manager………………………Mike Gutchewsky; Ext. 2339

Weis Center — Preschool & Pre-K 8635 Calumet Avenue • Munster, IN 46321

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

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

Page 3

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time February 10, 2019

SUNDAY, February 10 — Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Francisco Valencia by Rosita Farina 10:00 am Stanley Marczak (Ann.) by Slough Family 12:00 pm Bernie Mashura by Tom, Holly & Mike Duffy

MONDAY, February 11 — Our Lady of Lourdes 6:30 am Julia Zulueta by Ronie & Geraline Galvan 8:30 am Elisa Castillo by Sanchez Family

TUESDAY, February 12 6:30 am Len Jarczyk by Theresa Biedron 8:30 am Joan Klein by Seniors Club 10:00 am Frank Kitkowski by Rose Horvath (MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 3)

WEDNESDAY, February 13 6:30 am In Thanksgiving for 20 Years of Marriage of Marion & Delores Reffkin 8:30 am Michael Holmes by Holmes Family

THURSDAY, February 14 — Sts. Cyril & Methodius 6:30 am All Souls Day Intentions 9:00 am Frank Markey by Family

FRIDAY, February 15 6:30 am Willliam Gerlach (Ann.) by Wife Dona & Family 8:30 am Frank Molinaro by Jerry & Ruth Yothment

SATURDAY, February 16 8:30 am Douglas Lorenz by Claudia Pernal 5:30 pm Eugene Marlowe (Ann.) by Wife Wanda & Family

SUNDAY, February 17 — Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Eugene Sepaniak (Ann.) by Celine Szczepaniak 10:00 am John & Lottie Spudic by Ed & Carolyn Smiley 12:00 pm Marion (Red) Fulte by Kathleen Pagorek

FRIDAY, February 15 8:30 am K. & K. Cano

SATURDAY, February 16 8:30 am D. & J. O’Shea 5:30 pm G. & I. Scalzo, S. Szala/ MC ~ Nick

SUNDAY, February 17 6:30 am M. Miller, M. Slivka, B. Peters 8:00 am A., G. & L. Buksa/ MC ~ Elizabeth & Mary B. 10:00 am J., L. & M. Fugger/ MC ~Will 12:00 pm B., I. & S. Ramirez/ MC ~ Jacob B.

Pastoral Care Ministry If you or a family member is a hospitalized or homebound STM parishioner, contact Deacon Dave Kapala at (219) 836-8610, #

315 or dkapala@stm-church.com to arrange a Communion visit.

Sacrificial Offerings

February 3, 2019

Adult $ 22,100.00 Loose $ 3,006.00 Automated $ 3,140.00 Children $ 158.23

TOTAL $ 28,404.23

Thank you for sharing your gift of treasure with our parish!

Ed Gage • Thomas Beird

REFLECTION Stewardship

““Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?’ ‘Here I am,’ I said, ‘send me!’” (Isaiah 6:8)

Every day, in little ways and in big ways, God asks, “Whom shall I send?” Whether it is someone to take on a new ministry, to give a

friendly smile to a stranger or say a word of encouragement to a friend, God constantly provides opportunities to help someone in need. The next time you hear God calling, have the courage to

walk through the door and say “Here I am, Lord.”

Saturday, February 16 5:30 p.m. Fr. Andrew Corona

Sunday, February 17 6:30 a.m. Fr. Andrew Corona 8:00 a.m. Fr. Andrew Corona 10:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 12:00 Noon Fr. Mike Yadron

Eucharistic Ministers Needed Our parish needs Eucharistic Ministers

to serve at the Lord’s table at all the weekend Masses.

Please contact Deacon Dan Zurawski at

(219) 836-8610, # 2316 or dzurawski@stm-church.com if you are

interested in serving the Lord and your parish in this capacity.

Page 4

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

Margaret Amatulli Mary Anhalt Doris Aurelio Maria Aurelio

Antonio Belmonte Mary Berry

Michael Berry Michael Billedo

Michael Blazevich Laverne Blumka

Diane Bochnowski Cheryl Bostrom

Arthur M. Branco Linda Braun

Stephany Burney Kathleen Burns

Paul Burns Dorothy Campbell James Campbell

Al Carollo Peter Castro

Janet Cattanach Jacqueline Morrow

Christian Willie Colby

Vincent Corsello Mike Curtain

Eleuterio Del Real Irene Dettmer

Jeanine Doescher Patrick Doran Alex Eiland

Sherlon Evans John Forde

Bonnie Gabrione Phyllis Garber

Andrea Garritano Margaret Geary Emily Gibson

Dorothy Gillespie Margaret Good

Monica Gonzalez Howard Gralewski

Margaret Gray Susan Graff

James Grunewald Mary Ellen Gullicks

Amy Hayes Marie Henke

Marisol Hernandez Robert Hesek

Becky Hill Charlotte Hunt

Betty Ingbretson Joseph S. Iwan

Steve Izzo Elizabeth Jacob Barbara Jamrose Stanley Jayjack Robert Kalka

Carol Keilman Kelly Jean

Mark Kenney Irene Kerps Jean Kibler

James Klein, Sr. Janet Knight

Susan Kolodziej Richard Komyatte

Paul Kostalik Edward Kritzer Crystal Kurek Isabella Lappo

Annika LeMonier Chris LeMonier

Debbie LeMonier Nicklas LeMonier

Mike Lewis Kris Lisikiewicz Jo Lisiniewicz

Edward Liskiewicz Stanley Liskiewicz

Maria Lovell Marilyn Madsen

Brady Martin Larkin McKenzie Jenny Mendoza

Faye Meny Sandi Merlo Erin Meyer

Ann Miskovich Andrew Moll

Genevieve Mrvan Donna Nichols

Jim Nolan Steven Nowaczyk

Clare O’Brien Donna O’Connor

Kevin O’Neill Danny Ogren

James Pancheri Marty Pavovic

Johanna Petruch Andrew Pieczyrak Elizabeth Pilones

Ron Plewniak Sylvester Porras Dennis Powell Ronald Prus Jerry Reach

Timothy Ribble Jackie Roach Ann Sardella George Sauer Marie Schultz

Marianne Schwartz William Schwartz

Zachery Scriff James Secviar

Jim Seul Renee Shehan Nick Skinner Laurie Slazyk

Carolyn Smiley Deborah Stareck Georgianne Suto Florence Stevens

Rose Theis Gerardo Trevino Kathie Trudgian Anthony Ubuane

Phyllis Unkuri Tony Vanden Heuvel Raymond Vanderbok

Julia Vrbanich James Wachel Kathy Wachel

Marilyn (Vrabel) Warda Mark Wein

Anne Wisniewski Don Woszczynski Josephine Zagrocki

Cecilia Ziegler Cody Ziemkowski

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time Have you ever participated in various trust exercises, where you

have to place your faith in others around you? Maybe it was falling backwards with your eyes closed while the

person's voice speaking to you seemed to drift further away. Maybe it was jumping from a height into people's arms that didn't seem

strong enough to catch you. These activities were supposed to show you the meaning of trust and help grow that trust in you for your

comrades. Sometimes it worked. Other times, some prankster would actually let you fall, and then you learned to trust no one. So

much for building up our ability to trust. Trust is important, especially in our relationship with Jesus. He

calls us all the time and asks for us to trust. However, because of doubt or a desire to follow our own will, we choose to disregard his

request. After objecting to Jesus' request to lower his net into the water, Peter was humbled when he caught so much fish that the net began to tear. Peter was a fisherman by trade. Surely he knew what the catch was probably going to be that day. But Jesus asked him to follow his will. Peter wanted to follow his own. Peter realized that

his trust from then on should be in the Lord. Do you sometimes think your generosity will bear little fruit? Do you wonder if your surrender to God in stewardship living really

amounts to much at all? Trust in Jesus, the one who calls you to this life. His word is truth, and he would never let you fall.

— Tracy Earl Welliver, MTS

SUNDAY, February 10 10:00 am Mass with Your Class — Grades 1 & 2 10:00 am Boy Scout Sunday

MONDAY, February 11 6:30 pm Marian Rosary ~ Chapel 7:00 pm Schola Choir ~ Church 7:30 pm Knights of Columbus ~ Solar Room

TUESDAY, February 12 9:15 am Eucharistic Adoration (until 6:30 p.m.) ~ Chapel 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations ~ Chapel 6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet ~ Chapel 7:00 pm RCIA ~ Conference Room 7:00 pm Baptism Preparation Class ~ Teachers’ Lounge

WEDNESDAY, February 13 9:30 am Bible Study ~ Conference Room 4:30 pm Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 p.m.) 4:30 pm RCIC (until 6:00 p.m.) ~ Conference Room 6:30 pm Handbell Practice (until 7:45 pm) ~ Church 7:00 pm Career Networking Group ~ Weis Center 7:00 pm Catholics Coming Home ~ Solar Room 7:00 pm St. Vincent de Paul Society ~ Conference Room

THURSDAY, February 14 4:30 pm Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 p.m.) 6:30 pm Scripture Study ~ Conference Room 6:45 pm All Seasons Chorale ~ Church

FRIDAY, February 15 9:00 am Gifts of Love & Warmth ~ Conference Room

Readings for Week of February 10

Sunday: Is 6:1-2a, 3-8/Ps 138:1-2, 2-3, 4-5, 7-8 [1c]/1 Cor 15:1-11 or 15:3-8, 11/Lk 5:1-11 Monday: Gn 1:1-19/Ps 104:1-2a, 5-6, 10 and 12, 24 and 35c [31b]/Mk 6:53-56 Tuesday: Gn 1:20—2:4a/Ps 8:4-5, 6-7, 8-9 [2ab]/Mk 7:1-13 Wednesday: Gn 2:4b-9, 15-17/Ps 104: 1-2a, 27-28, 29bc-30 [1a]/Mk 7:14-23 Thursday: Gn 2:18-25/Ps 128:1-2, 3, 4-5 [cf. 1a]/Mk 7:24-30 Friday: Gn 3:1-8/Ps 32:1-2, 5, 6, 7 [1a]/Mk 7:31-37 Saturday: Gn 3:9-24/Ps 90:2, 3-4abc, 5-6, 12-13 [1]/Mk 8:1- 10 Next Sunday: Jer 17:5-8/Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4, 6 [40:5a]/1 Cor 15:12, 16- 20/Lk 6:17, 20-26

February Nursery The Nursery is located in the Bride’s Room, near the main church

entrance and offered during the 10:00 a.m. Sunday Mass. All children, infant to age 5, are welcome to join us.

Sunday, February 17 Mary Karl • Lisa Jorsch

Jennifer Boswell

Sunday, February 24 Jennifer Anderson • Susie Kinsella

Michelle Wendlinger

Page 5

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:

February 10: Rev. Edward Kennedy (2007) February 11: Rev. Louis M. Letko (1981) February 15: Msgr. Lawrence T. Grothouse (1970) Rev. Stanley J. Milewski (2002)

SPREAD LOVE

“Reach out and help others. If you have the power to make someone happy, do it. Be a vessel, be the change, be the difference, or be the inspiration. Shine your light as an example. The world needs more of that.” ~ Germany Kent

Jackie DeShannon would definitely agree with the words of Germany Kent. She wrote a song that is very familiar, I would think, to all of us:

“What the world needs now is love, sweet love It’s the only thing that there’s just too little of What the world needs now is love, sweet love, No not just for some but for everyone.”

Our world appears to be extremely self-centered. There are too many people who focus on their own needs, wants, and desires. Oftentimes, they do all that they can to fulfill their wants, even at the cost of others.

I cannot help but think Jesus must get incredibly sad when He looks at us and sees what we are doing. He invested so much of Himself — actually investing His entire self — teaching us that we need to look out for others. He wants us to care for each other. He wants us to value each other. He wants us to cherish each other.

We are given many opportunities to do just that. Our opportunities are fueled by the gifts that God has given to us so generously. We were created in God’s image and likeness and, as if that were not enough, each of us was entrusted with a set of gifts that can enhance our world.

What we need to do is quit looking at ourselves and begin focusing on others. There are so many people in incredible need nowadays. They are found in all age brackets, all walks of life, all colors, and all nationalities. Many are ignored because, for one reason or another, we state that they do not belong.

How can a brother or sister not belong? Remember, we are all brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ. He, our brother, reminded us that we all have one Father. If God is our Father and we are brothers and sisters in Jesus Christ, it would behoove us to begin to care for others better than we presently do.

We may be busy doing good works for others but we cannot rest on our laurels. Those good works are not the be all and end all, they are merely the beginning. There are always others in need, others who are without, others who need to know that they are loved. What the world needs now is love, sweet love. Let us pledge to be the instruments of Christ’s love by the manner in which we live our lives.

FAITH ACTION: Renew your efforts to care for the needy among us whenever and wherever you see someone who needs help.

ON THE LIGHTER SIDE A little Valentine’s Day humor

Q. What did the Valentine’s Day card say to the stamp? A. “Stick with me and you’ll go places.” Q. What is the best part of Valentine’s Day? A. The next day when the chocolate goes on sale. Q. What did the paper clip say to the magnet? A. “I find you very attractive.” Q. Do you have a date for Valentine’s Day? A. “Why yes. February 14th.” Q. What did the light bulb say to the switch? A. “You turn me on.” Q. What would you call an aunt who ran off to get married? A. Antelope

PLANNING AHEAD One of our parish’s synod goals encompasses Religious Formation and Evangelization. We want to do as much as possible to give people an opportunity to get in touch with their faith in new ways. To that end, we are planning on hosting a Parish Mission from Sunday, April 7th to Wednesday, April 10th.

Our speaker will be John Schweisthal from Good News Ministries of South Florida, Inc. Some of you may remember John as he gave a Parish Mission here about ten years ago. John has dedicated his adult life to being a lay evangelist and giving missions throughout our country. He made a decision last year he would retire from the work after this year. He wants to spend as much time as possible in our diocese as this is the area from which he hails. We will be sharing more with you as the time nears. At this time, however, I ask you to put these dates in your calendar and try to make yourself free for his talks. I truly believe that you will be edified.

Page 6

Religious Education

February Schedule 13/14 Class 20/21 Class 27/28 Class

March Schedule 3 Family Formation — 1:00-2:00 p.m. in Gym 6/7 No Class — Ash Wednesday 13/14 Class 16 First Penance at 10:00 a.m. — Church 20/21 Class 27/28 No Class — Spring Break

April Schedule 3/4 Class 6 First Communion Retreat 9:00 a.m. in the STM Gym 10/11 Class 12 Confirmation Practice at 5:30 p.m. 13 Confirmation at 10:30 a.m. 17/18 No Class — Holy Week 24/25 Last Class (except for 3rd Grade/1st Communicants)

Religious Education

From Your Parish Synod Committee Evangelization Has Its Rewards!

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” Show mercy this week by performing one or more of

the corporal works of mercy: Feed the hungry. Give drink to the thirsty. Clothe the naked.

Shelter the homeless. Comfort the imprisoned.

Visit the sick. Bury the dead. Evangelize by practicing these acts of mercy.

Learn about your faith online! A good source of evangelization information is

https://formed.org. Our parish has paid for access to this site, so let’s use it! Call the parish office for login information. Once you log in, you’ll find

answers to all the hard questions about our faith, as well as

lectures and courses for evangelization and apologetics.

Lectors for the Week

Saturday, February 16 5:30 pm Mass

Charley Clam & Rob Mangus

Sunday, February 17 6:30 am Mass

Richard Gard & Jim Hus

8:00 am Mass Judy & Dan Buksa

10:00 am Mass Timothy Jevyak & Terri Tratar

12:00 Noon Mass Timothy Christiana &

Cheryl Suwardi

Saturday, February 16 5:30 pm Mass

Chapel: Chuck & Chris Shearman

Sunday, February 17 8:00 am Mass

Main: Joe & Cynthia Sindall Chapel: Mary Silvasi

Choir: Sheehan Family

10:00 am Mass Main: Andrea Mazerik

Chapel: Pischner Family Choir: Mary Ann & Dwight Reed

12:00 Noon Mass Chapel: Susan Anglin

Vocations Committee Are you concerned about the

conditions in the world today? Our only consolation to help us cope with the world around us

is the beauty and knowledge of our priests, as they have the ability to lead, love and counsel us all.

We must respect them and pray for them daily. They are our greatest teachers and peace makers and they need

our prayers to provide them with continued strength.

Catholics Coming Home Catholics leave the church or drift away for a variety of reasons, some due to unhappiness about Church teachings or anger with a member or members of the clergy. Others never really intended

to break with the Church, but simply got into the bad habit of not going and wake up one day to discover it has been years.

Those of us who are active in our faith need to make a concerted personal effort to welcome these individuals back into being

active members of the Catholic Church again.

Catholics Coming Home A six-week series has begun, but you may join us anytime.

Come and bring a friend or relative, too! Weekly Wednesday Sessions at 7:00 p.m. until March 6, 2019 For more info, please contact the Parish Office: (219) 836-8610.

Bulletin Deadlines

Please be sure to submit all bulletin articles at least two (2) weeks in advance to bulletin@stm-church.com. Thank you!

Holy Name Society All men of the parish are invited to join us for the next Holy

Name Society meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the Solar Room on Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Note: Date change! The Rosary will begin our meeting, followed by a Stephen Ray video. We’ll conclude the evening with pizza and beverages.

New members are always encouraged and welcome.

Save the Date: The Holy Name Society

will be hosting their annual

Fish Fry & Raffle Friday, March 15th

in the St. Thomas More Gym

Watch the bulletin for more details coming soon.

Page 7

St. Thomas More School February 10, 2019

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe On the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe in December, the student body of St. Thomas More School

gathered in the gymnasium for a brief reenactment of Mary’s appearance before Juan Diego in Mexico in the 16th century, followed by the Rosary, read in Spanish by 8th grade students.

At the conclusion of the Rosary, everyone in attendance was treated to homemade “elotes”, a Mexican street food made of corn, seasonings and a creamy base...delicious! Our thanks to STMS Spanish teacher,

Mrs. Elisa Genova for coordinating, and cooking for, this special school-wide event.

Congratulations STMS 7th Grade Boys Congratulations to the St. Thomas More School 7th grade boys basketball team, who finished their season

as runner-up in the Diocesan Boys Basketball Championship game. We are very proud of these hard-working young men for their great display of sportsmanship and

dedication to the game and their teammates. Way to go, St. Toms!

Page 8

STMS T.R.I.P. News Make Your Shopping & Gift-Giving a Breeze!

Everyone is welcome to use this easy and convenient service provided by our school.

Just sign-up, place your order for gift cards from a host of many, many vendors

(from gas stations, department and grocery stores to services & vacation destinations) and pick-up in the Parish Office later in

the week. It couldn’t get any easier! Submit all payments and a printed receipt with your order on

processing days no later than 8:30 a.m.

Processing dates are on the

following dates:

February 19 (Tuesday)

March 4 & 18

April 1, 15 & 29

May 13 & 20

Learn more by emailing:

stmstrip@gmail.com.

Senior Citizens All senior citizens of our parish are invited to join us to

hear informative speakers, have fun and enjoy the companionship of fellow parishioners.

Meetings are held at 1:00 p.m. at Kish Funeral Community Room, 10000 Calumet Avenue, September to July.

Annual Dues: $10.

Saturday, February 16th

Pizza Party

12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. in the Solar Room

Wednesday, March 6th

Business Meeting

Guest Speaker: To Be Announced

Saturday, March 16th

Pot Luck Luncheon

12:00 Noon — 4:00 p.m. in the Solar Room

Sunday, March 31st

8:00 a.m. Mass & Breakfast Honoring Our Deceased Members Breakfast to follow. Reservations required.

Wednesday, April 10th

Business Meeting

Election of Officers for the 2019/2020 Year

Wednesday, May 1st

Spring Luncheon &

Installation of New Officers 12:00 Noon to 3:00 p.m.

Reservations Required • Location to be Announced

Wednesday, May 15th

Bingo Bonanza

Wednesday, July 17th

Seniors Picnic

12:00 Noon — 4:00 p.m. at the Weis Center

Watch the parish bulletin for updates and details regarding all scheduled events.

Religious Education/Formation All are welcome to join us for our next meeting

in the Parish Conference Room on Monday, February 25, 2019.

We look forward to seeing you all there!

Live Christ, Share Christ Movement

All are invited to join us!

Join us for our next gathering on

Saturday, March 9, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. St. Thomas More Weis Center

The Live Christ, Share Christ Movement is now active in our Diocese, with the endorsements of Pope Benedict, our own Bishop Hying & Fr. Mike, and has been

effective in other countries around the world. The Live Christ, Share Christ Movement was designed to help

rekindle and strengthen our faith through the power of the Holy Spirit, so that we may know Christ and

love him more deeply. In response to God’s love, we can share our faith and love by

the way we live as an example to family and friends.

Live Christ, Share Christ Testimonial I first experienced the Live Christ Share Christ movement

at their seminar in January of this year. It was a great blessing to me. The wonderful speakers and

musicians truly inspired me. I hope and pray that this movement will spread in our parish and become a blessing

to many others, too. Cindy Keilman

An Evening of Reflection with guest speaker:

Fr. Gerald Schweitzer Tuesday, March 19, 2019 7:00 p.m. in the Solar Room

Topic: “From Agony to Ecstasy- From Death to Life”

Reflection upon the Easter Vigil All are invited and encouraged

to join us!

Page 9

For more information, visit our website:

www.stm-school.com or contact Pam Pasyk at

(219) 836-9151 or ppasyk@stm-school.com

• Fully Accredited by the IN Department of Education & AdvancED • Small Class Sizes (18:1 students to teacher ratio) • Outstanding Academics with Catholic /Values Curriculum • Spanish, Art, Music, Physical Education & Computer Classes • 20+ Clubs/Organizations • 5 Sports • Honors & Philanthropy Classes • State-of-the-Art Technology • Strong School Community • Before/After School Care • Incorporating

STREAM Curriculum

Join us for our final Open House!

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Preschool to Grade 8 Preschool & Pre-K: Weis Center • 8635 Calumet • Munster, IN

(Next to the Munster Public Library)

Grades K to 8: Main School • 8435 Calumet • Munster, IN

Open House

Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders of Conscience

ST. THOMAS MORE SCHOOL Educating the Whole Child in the Values of Jesus and Mary

Page 10

STM Career

Networking Group

80% of Jobs are Unadvertised 82% of Jobs are Found Through Networking

15% Found Want Ads 4% Create Their Own Jobs • 2% Blindly Send Resumes

Wednesday, February 13, 2019

7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Returning to the Job Search

After Decades Away Thoughts from someone who has been there!

Presented by:

Teresa Tratar Retired Teacher & Job Search Survivor

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 critiqued.

Where: STM Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue • Munster When: The 2nd Wednesday of Every Month Time: 7:00 p.m.– 8:30 p.m. Email: STMCareerGroup@gmail.com

Parish Choirs Need You! Our many parish choirs are in need of more individuals to share

their love of music and gift of song with the Lord & fellow parishioners.

Youth Chorale Practices: 4:00 p.m. in the Chapel on the days we sing.

The parish Youth Chorale welcomes students in Grades 2 to 8 and sings twice a month at the

Saturday 5:30 p.m. Mass. Learn more: Laura Javorka at ljavorka@stm-church.com.

All Seasons Chorale

Practices: Thursdays at 6:45 p.m. Chorale is an SATB choral

ensemble that leads songs at the 10:00 a.m. Sunday Mass, other

solemnities & holy days. The ability to read music is helpful,

but not required.

Schola Cantorum Practices: Mondays at 7:00 p.m.

Schola is a chamber group focused on singing sacred music for the Liturgy. Members are chosen by

audition. Open to high school age & older and sings at the Noon Mass.

Learn more about our adult choirs by contacting Angie Lorandos: (219) 836-8610 x2338 or

alorandos@stm-church.com.

St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry The holiday season is now behind us and many memories with family and friends have been made. As we look back, we are

thankful for the generosity of those in our parish and school and are grateful for the individuals, groups and parish ministries who

have kindly contributed to our constant efforts to help those in need throughout our community.

We, of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, would like to thank all of our supporters for your generous donations that brought sparkles to eyes and smiles to faces of those served over the holidays and

who will undoubtedly be moved by the future kindness of our parish family.

Thanks to all of you for your ongoing generous support in

helping us to provide help to others!

Items in Need at the SVDP Food Pantry:

Boxed Mashed Potatoes

Pancake Mix Syrup

Meal Helpers Rice Helpers/Sides

Potato Helpers/Sides Cake Mixes

Frosting Tuna

To volunteer or learn more about the SVDP Society, please contact SVDP President Mike Martinelli at (219) 836-8610.

Canned Meats Canned Fruit Jiffy Mixes

Soup Cereal

Toilet Paper Dish Soap Shampoo Bar Soap

Laundry Detergent

Northwest Indiana Catholic 2019 Subscription Drive

If your Catholic Faith holds a valuable place in your heart, consider the benefits of having a Catholic publication come into your home each week by renewing or starting a subscription to the Northwest Indiana Catholic, the official newspaper of the

Diocese of Gary. Your one-year subscription comes at the low cost of $26.

Now, you can also receive your news online with an e-edition for only $13/year. If you’d like both the paper and the e-edition,

the cost is a bargain at $30/year (note: an email address is required for all e-edition subscriptions).

Isn’t the low price worth staying current with our local, national and international Church?

Subscribe now through March 17 by using the envelope in your collection packet (make check payable to St. Thomas More). To use your credit or debit card, go to the secure website at

nwicatholic.com. Thank you for promoting the value of our Catholic press!

Page 11

Made for More Queen of All Saints, Michigan City

Wednesday, March 20, 2019 • 7:00 – 9:30 p.m. Join nationally-recognized Catholics Christopher West and Mike Mangione as they creatively weave together dynamic,

multi-media presentations for an evening of beauty and reflection on the meaning of life, love, and human destiny. It

will answer your questions: “Who am I & Where am I going?” Leave with a faith-filled vision of hope & joy. Perfect for men

and women, high school age and older. $20 tickets are on sale at QAS Parish Office or at http://corproject.com/michigancity/ Feel free to contact Rosanne Kouris at rkouris@dcgary.org or

(219) 769-9292, ext. 259 to learn more.

Respect Life News

Moms & Tots Resale Shop We now have amazing, high-end, brand-name clothing, purses

and accessories/jewelry for women, thanks to our generous donors. Come in to see the selection; these items won't last long!

Open every Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 110 West Main Street in Griffith.

Contact us or stop by to purchase an e-gift card. We Need Volunteer Help

Volunteers are needed to help clean, sort/tag donations, hang clothing, straighten, bag merchandise, work the jewelry counter

& register, greet customers and sell merchandise. Make a difference in the community, meet new people and be a

part of something rewarding. Contact us today to volunteer.

Oratory Contest Preparation Please contact our offices to learn more about our spring Pro-life

Oratory Contest for junior high and high school students. The contest will take place Saturday, March 30 at the Highland

Public Library, 2841 Jewitt Avenue in Highland from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

High school seniors and juniors are eligible to receive a student prize of up to $250 & $200 for their teacher. Freshmen and sophomores are eligible to receive a 1st place prize of $150.

Contact the LCRTL office to enter. If you want Lake County Right to Life to contact your school contact us with the name of your English or Speech teacher &

their contact info.

Contact Lake County Right to Life Call or email: 219-838-1138 • www.lakecortl.org

Worldwide Marriage Encounter Don’t miss out on the upcoming enrichment for married couples

and religious on April 12-14, 2019 at the Wyndham Garden Hotel in Elk Grove Village, IL.

The enrichment begins with a private weekend experience including 11 presentations about practical tools for growing in

loving relationships, and provides ongoing enrichments after the weekend from the Worldwide Marriage Encounter community.

For information/application, go to wwme-chicagoland.org and say “yes” today to God’s call to love one another!

Andrean High School

Family Information Nights Andrean High School invites families to our Family Information Night in Andrean’s Cafeteria. Families will have the opportunity

to meet with Andrean students, parents and faculty. We look forward to meeting you!

Wednesday, February 20 — 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, March 14 — 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Entrance Exams Andrean High School invites prospective

students to our Entrance Exam. Students are asked to check in by 12:45 p.m. and enter through Door M. Parents are invited to join us for refreshments and a presentation on the admissions process.

Saturday, March 9 — 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13 — 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Families can pre-register for events at: andreanhs.org/rsvp Andrean's online Admissions Application is now open.

Families can begin applying at andreanhs.org/apply. Andrean High School • 219-887-5959 • andreanhs.org

Or register for any of the above events: andreanhs.org/rsvp

Catholic Women's Conference The Diocese of Gary is happy to announce its second annual

NWI Catholic Women's Conference

Saturday, April 6, 2019 from 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. CDT

Queen of All Saints Catholic Legacy Center 1719 Barker Avenue • Michigan City, IN 46360

Sharing the Joy of Our Faith "My spirit rejoices in God my savior" Luke 1:47

Guest Speakers: Sr. Miriam James — Speaker & Author

Dr. Angela Franks, Ph.D. — Theologian, Author, Mother of 6 Kevin Matthews — Radio Personality This conference is open to all women.

For more information or questions, please contact Rosanne Kouris at (219) 769-9292, ext. 259 or rkouris@dcgary.org.

Natural Family Planning How much do you know about Natural Family Planning?

Want answers? Come to the NFP Information Nights -- Live the Love!

Natural Family Planning Explained 6:30 p.m. -8:30 p.m. at the following parishes:

St. Teresa of Avila • Valparaiso • Monday, February 18 Queen of All Saints • Michigan City • Tuesday, February 19

St. Francis Xavier • Lake Station • Friday, March 8 St. Mary • Griffith • Monday, March 11

Explanation by a medical professional on the science behind fertility awareness and the benefits to women’s health.

Explanation of the theology behind the Church’s teaching. Explanation of real life experience and advice by

a teaching couple. The evening is free and babysitting will be available. No registration necessary.

Sponsored by the Office of Family Life Diocese of Gary 219-769-9292, ex 259.

Mission at Queen of All Saints February 24 -27, 2019

6:00p.m. to 7:30 p.m. nightly in the upstairs Legacy Center, 1719 E. Barker Avenue in Michigan City.

Roman Catholic Lay Evangelist John Schweisthal of Good News Ministries is conducting the mission. The event is FREE. A shorter morning mission will be presented on February 25 at

8:30 a.m., February 26 at 9:30 a.m. and February 27 at 8:30 a.m. The theme of the mission is "Our Life of Faith."

Page 12

30 Scholarships in 30 Days All are invited to “30 Nuestros Pequeños Hermanos (NPH,

Spanish for "Our Little Brothers and Sisters") Sponsorships in 30 Days” featuring the Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks, Auxiliary

Bishop of the Archdiocese of Chicago on Saturday, February 16. Mass at 5:00 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church, followed by a

Taco Dinner at 6:30 p.m. at SJE School. Remarks by Hicks at 7:30 p.m. with testimonies from former NPH children and SJE parishioners who have traveled to the Dominican Republic will follow. Cost: $10/Adults & $8/Children. Volunteers are needed! Contact Ron Rado (219) 433-9812. NPH USA supports raising more than 3,100 orphaned, abandoned, and disadvantaged boys and girls in Central & South America and provides 3,100 others

with scholarships, meals & healthcare. Help support NPH by sponsoring a child for $50/month which provides food, shelter,

other basic needs, as well as a safe home environment, education and healthcare. Or, donate to support various NPH and SJE efforts.

Pancake Breakfast The Knights of Columbus Council in Cedar Lake, Council 3840 is

hosting a Pancake Breakfast on February 17th from 8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. in their hall located at 13039 Wicker Avenue in Cedar Lake, IN. Cost is $7/person or $20/family and includes pancakes, sausage, fruit, biscuits & gravy, juice, milk and coffee. Proceeds

will benefit Lake County Right to Life and the Ultrasound Project.

Chorale Concert at SS. Peter & Paul SS. Peter & Paul Parish, 5885 Harrison Street in Merrillville presents a final Choral Concert under the direction of Laura

Monteen on Sunday, February 24 at 3:00 pm. Mrs. Monteen, the parish’s Liturgy & Music Coordinator, will be retiring this

summer after 28 years of service to this parish. She also assists STMS with the fall musical each year.

This concert will include choirs and musicians who have performed at SS. Peter & Paul throughout the years. Free and open to the public; everyone from

the Diocese is invited. Refreshments will be served following the concert. For information, contact Liz

Bushemi at (219) 793-1375.

St. James Book Club Are you the salt of the earth? “Salt is good, but if salt itself loses its taste, with what can its flavor be

restored?” (Luke 14:34) Don’t let your faith lose its taste. Restore its flavor by joining the St. James the Less Book Club this Lent.

Our weekly discussions will revolve around the book, Called to be Holy by Cardinal Timothy Dolan. We meet each Thursday in Lent (starting March 14 and concluding on April 11) from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sign-up and book purchase ($12.50) at a special meeting on February 28. Contact Phyllis Steiner at (219) 934-0967 for info.

St. Florian Mardi Gras Party Saturday, March 2, 2019 from 5:30 –10:00 p.m. in the Gym,

located at 13145 S. Houston Avenue in Chicago (Hegewisch). Tickets per person: $25/Adult or $13/14 years & under. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the Rectory Office. Includes a

full buffet dinner, live music & entertainment, 50/50 raffle, parade, kids’ prizes, cash bar & more. (773) 646-4877.

AYCE Soup & Salad The St. Stephen Men’s & Women’s Clubs are sponsoring an

AYCE Soup & Salad Dinner on Saturday, March 9th from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. in Jacob Hall. We will feature many

homemade soups, bread, salad and soft drinks for $8! Call (219) 980-9348.

Hoops, Habits & Brackets Join St. Joseph’s Carmelite Home for an evening of NCAA

discussions with basketball professionals. Monday March 18, 2019 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the Halls of St. George, 905 East

Joliet Street in Schererville. Stadium dining and open bar. Casual dress & basketball jerseys encouraged! Select your bracket picks to win it all! For more information, call all

312-392-4197. All proceeds to meet the needs of the children.

Pick 7 Outreach at St. Matthias St. Matthias in Crown Point is hosting a Pick 7 Outreach

Opportunity on Saturday, March 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon. If you know of someone who could use a helping hand

with food or household supplies, please invite them to this event. No questions asked, just joyful giving. Call (219) 663-2201.

Camp Sharing Meadows Camp Sharing Meadows is recruiting Counselors, Cooks and

Nurses for our Spring 2018 Mini-Camps. Camp Sharing Meadows is a weekend camp for developmentally and

intellectually disabled adults, or “ other-abled” friends where campers can participate in communal activities with their

counselors, while growing in their relationship with God through fun activities and value sessions.

If you are interested in volunteering with us, please contact Emily Barsic at (219) 778-2585 or at camp@sharefoundation.org.

Mini-Camp Dates: February 22-24, March 22-24, April 12-14 and May 17-19

Pierogi Sales Order delicious pierogi from St. Josaphat Church in Munster

now. Call (219) 383-9811 no later than 9:00 a.m. on Thursday morning for a Friday pick-up

between Noon and 3:00 p.m. Choose from kraut, potato, cheese or prune.

1 Dozen: $10/Half-dozen: $5. Thanks for your continued support.

Wounded Healers Wounded Healers will begin again soon.

Join one of our groups to help you manage your grief due to the loss of a loved one or friend

(separate groups for those grieving the loss of a spouse or partner, child or grandchild, parent, sibling or friend;

beginner and advanced groups). Contact Wounded Healers at (219) 924-5577 or

www.woundedhealers-nwi.com.

Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide If you are coping with the loss of a loved one due to suicide,

contact LOSS and begin the healing process. Please call (312) 655-7284 for meeting schedule and locations.

This group offers help for adults in a nonjudgmental environment.

Grateful Seniors Enjoy February Fun Offset the winter blahs with the Tuesday & Thursday 10:00 a.m. chair aerobics. Meet some happy hearts, who like to converse,

play cards & bunco each Tuesday at Noon, learn new techniques with “Simply Stitching” on Thursdays from 1:00-3:00, and/or

help with the on-going puzzle challenge. Each activity ignites sparks of joy and enthusiasm among the

participants. All are invited and always welcome at the Senior Center at

Pulaski Park in Hammond.