08-04-13 - St. Thomas More Church

Think of what is above, not of what is on earth.For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory.Blessed Sacrament Page St. Meinrad ArchabbeyCol 3:2-4

St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 8501 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN 46321Mission Statement : The Roman Catholic Saint Thomas More Parish Family welcomes and invitesevery person to join us on our journey in faith and celebration. With the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and throughSacred 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 StaffPastor ............................. Reverend Michael J. Yadron, KHS; Ext. 312myadron@stm-church.comAssociate Pastor ......................... Reverend Benjamin J. Ross; Ext. 314bross@stm-church.comSenior Deacon..................................................... Dr. Napoleon TabionDeacons ......................................................... Mr. David Kapala, KHS..................................................................... Mr. Joseph Stodola, KHS................................................................... Mr. Daniel Zurawski, KHSStewardship Director ..................................... Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330Pastoral Care Coordinator .................. Mrs. Madeleine Moya; Ext. 313Director of Music ......................................... Angie Lorandos; Ext. 338Director of Religious Education ............ Miss Emily Hackett; Ext. 332Parish Office StaffOffice Hours:Monday-Friday 8:00 am-8:00 pm • Saturday 8:00 am-4:00 pmWeb Site .......................................................... www.stm-church.comEmail address .................................. parish.office@stm-church.comEmail address for bulletin ...................... bulletin@stm-church.comOffice Phone………. 836-8610 Office Fax .................... 836-9185Bulletin Editor ............................................ Mrs. Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309Daytime Receptionist ................................ Mrs. Susan Strain; Ext. 310Evening Receptionist ............................. Ms. Veronica Brtos; Ext. 310Pastoral MinistriesEnvironment & Art ............................................. Jean Bados 836-8610Eucharistic Ministers ................................... Carole Mackey 923-8816Hospitality Ministry ....................................... Ann D’Orazio 838-9343Lectors ...................................................... William McDunn 922-9459Nursery .................................................. Kaaren A. Mashura 836-5079St. Vincent de Paul .......................... Mrs. Bernadine Barrett 836-8610Vocations Committee .............................. Mrs. Mary Kochis 322-72622012-2013 Pastoral Council MembersDaniel Buksa ................................................................ Leslie DernulcChristi Kordeck ......................................................... Michael KorfiatisJohn Kovach ...................................................................... Mary KretzPaul Liszewski ................................................................. Bill McDunnAndrea Mazerik ....................................................... Jesse MontenegroKrystal Quagliara, Chairperson ................................... Ruth YothmentSt. Thomas More SchoolPre-School through 8th GradeOffice Hours: Monday– Friday ~ 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.Web Site ........................................................... www.stm-school.comSchool Phone ......... 836-9151 School Fax .......................... 836-0982Principal ......................................... Mr. Chet Nordyke, KHS; Ext. 328Assistant Principal…………………….…...Mrs. Tina Boyle; Ext. 328School Administrative Assistant….Mrs. Jennifer Gonzalez; Ext. 328School Reception & Office Associate…..Mrs. Sandra Steele; Ext. 329Home & School Association…..….Mrs. Kris Miller; 312.-909-8156Parish & School Offices Associate……Mrs. Mary Jo Biscan; Ext. 311Parish & School Offices Associate ......... Mrs. Pam Wadycki; Ext. 339School Admissions…………………...…….Mrs. Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309Weis Center8635 Calumet Avenue ~ Munster, IN 46321Phone ..................................................................................... 836-2660Fax ......................................................................................... 836-2655St. Thomas More Religious EducationKindergarten through 8th GradeOffice 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 ........................................................... 836-8610Director ..........................................................Miss Emily Hackett; Ext. 332Administrative Assistant ...................................... Carolyn McGill; Ext. 336Grades K through 8 ~ Wednesday or Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.Pastoral Commissions ChairpersonsFormation/Education ................................................... Mrs. Barbara TopeteParish Life ................................................................ Mrs. Elaine HerrmannPeace & Social Justice ...................................................... Ms. Mary SilvasiSpirituality & Worship............................................... Mrs. Kaaren MashuraStewardship .................................................................. Mrs. Noreen BickelParish OrganizationsAltar & Rosary Society ...................................... Kaaren Mashura 836-5079Blue Army ................................................... Rose Marie Malburg 836-8779Boy Scouts .............................................................. Roger Jachna 322-0769Building Maintenance ............................................... Dale Slosser 836-8610Career Networking Group…………………… Christine Spencer 836-8610Catering/Hall Rental ........................................ Kathleen Pagorek 972-0539Circle of Prayer………………………………..Mary Jo Humpfer 836-5002Cub Scouts .............................................................. Chris Bedenk 836-6247Finance ................................................................ Barbara Shaver 838-9200Garden Club ................................................................. Al Carollo 836-8268Gabriel Project ............................................................................. 836-8610Gifts of Love & Warmth……………………..Bernadine Nemeth 513-6544Girl Scouts ................................................................. Julie Buksa 922-1182Holy Name Society ..................................................... Joe Adams 865-3566Knights of Columbus ............................................... Dave Kritzer 838-4409K of C Columbian Squires………………….....Richard Alvarado 614-3743Moms’ Group ......................................................... Leticia Kotso 924-5732Oblates……………………………………………...Denise Gard 836-9115Respect Life ............................................................ Alice Wohler 836-5337Senior Citizens ........................................................... Herb Cleve 218-7341The Travelers Club…………………………………..Lois Quinn 836-7902Ushers Club ......................................................... Jim Marmalejo 836-1463Page 2Sacramental InformationConfessionsSaturdays ............................................................ 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.First Friday .............................. 1/2 hour before the 6:30 a.m. MassBaptisms .............................. First and Third Sundays at 1:00 p.m.Parents must be registered parishioners and regularlyattending at least six months before the Baptism. At leastone 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 theparish at least six months before beginning the six monthpreparation program for marriage.Communion calls and visits to Hospitals and Homebound: Callthe Parish Office for Sacraments at hospital or at home.New Parishioner RegistrationTo make it as convenient as possible for you, new parishioners mayregister at any time in the Parish Office.Please remember St. Thomas More in your Will and Estate Planning

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time August 4, 2013Saturday, August 105:30 p.m. Fr. Mike YadronSunday, August 116:30 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron8:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron10:00 a.m. Fr. Benjamin Ross12:00 Noon Fr. Benjamin RossMONDAY, August 58:30 am New ServersTUESDAY, August 68:30 am New ServersWEDNESDAY, August 78:30 am New ServersTHURSDAY, August 89:00 am T. & T. PappasFRIDAY, August 98:30 am J. Burns, A. BerkleySATURDAY, August 108:30 am C. & S. O’Brien5:30 pm J. Kleszynski, B. Nowak, K. Paprocki,A. Pedraza, B. Riebe/ MC ~ Joe O. (Ricky)SUNDAY, August 116:30 am T., T. & T. Pappas8:00 am I. Hinojosa, S. Lyons, A. & M. Nahnsen,K. Yaeger/ MC ~ Evan10:00 am M. Fugger, R. & S. Hamill, O. Lerma, M. LeeMC ~ Chris12:00 pm N. & N. Anglin, S. Becker-ToroMC ~ Alyssa (Scott)SUNDAY, August 4 — Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased8:00 am Michael Kovach (Ann.) by Family10:00 am Moira McShane Lucas by Teresa Glotzbach12:00 pm Mary B. Solczak by Greg & Kathy TrinkleMONDAY, August 56:30 am Edward Kvasnica (Ann.) by Mr. & Mrs. WilliamKvasnica8:30 am Helen Pukoszek by Frank A. Pukoszek & FamilyTUESDAY, August 6 —Transfiguration of the Lord6:30 am Janice Ciba by Doug & Jackie St. Peters8:30 am Roland Kwasny by Mary Wilson10:00 am Therese Adzia by STM Altar & Rosary Society(MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 1)WEDNESDAY, August 7 — St. Sixtus II and Companions6:30 am Donald Angel by Frank & Vera Paunicka8:30 am Intention of Priscilla Powell by Margaret PowellTHURSDAY, August 8 — St. Dominic6:30 am Vincent Ruffolo by Lucille Dust9:00 am Intention of Jugovic FamilyFRIDAY, August 96:30 am Francis Bock by Don & Ceil Noworyta8:30 am Richard Labek (Ann.) by Mudro FamilySATURDAY, August 10 — St. Lawrence8:30 am Maurice J. Powers by Family5:30 pm Mary Krawczyk (Ann.) by FamilySUNDAY, August 11 — Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased8:00 am Mary B. Solczak by Catherine Kluse10:00 am William Kaminsky by Wife & Family12:00 pm James Quasney (Ann.) by FamilyCharles J. Dybel • Patricia F. SwarthoutGeorge E. Becchino • Alice PolitoSacrificial OfferingsJuly 28, 2013Adult $ 19,301.00Loose $ 2,428.00Children $ 123.18TOTAL $ 21,852.18Thank you for your generosity & stewardship to our parish!Sunday NurseryThe St. Thomas More Nursery is always in need of teen (age12 to 17) and adult volunteers to assist in the Nursery during the10:00 a.m. Sunday Mass. The Nursery operates from Septemberthrough May. To volunteer, contact Kaaren at (219) 836-5079.To accommodate holidays & summer vacation schedules,all bulletin articles must be submitted at least two (2)weeks in advance to guarantee publication in a specificissue. In effect until mid-September. Thank you.Pastoral Care MinistryIf a friend or loved one would like to receive Communionat home, please call Pastoral Care at (219) 836-8610, #313.Page 3

Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary TimeIn fiscal year 2012, lottery sales in the United States averagedapproximately $250 per person. Forty-three states and the District ofColumbia accounted for that $78 billion in sales. It was in March 2012that the largest prize to date ($656 million) was split between threewinners. While it is clear that many people enjoy playing the lotteryrecreationally, a question that is often asked is, "What does someone dowith all that money?" Of course, that particular problem has notseemed to bother those who play regularly. Indeed, the largest jackpots,far from being a deterrent, end up provoking an even greater number ofplayers, who seem intent on turning a single dollar into a large fortune.The Gospel this weekend offers a perspective on the material world.While possessions are needed, Jesus says, "One's life does not consistof possessions" (Lk 12:15). This comment by Jesus is not somethingnew to any of us. We have heard this all before. But we also know thatthere is wisdom in storing up for ourselves. As a matter of fact, savingfor the future is an act of personal responsibility. We are constantly toldto save for retirement, to have a rainy-day fund, to set aside somethingfor a vacation instead of going into debt to take one. All of theseactions are so we don't become overly dependent on the social fabricand cause an undue burden on others.There is a difference between having a sufficiency and having anexcess. When our desire for an excess outstrips our reasonableness andour need, then we are flirting with greed, the very thing that the Gospelwarns against. Yes, we may work hard, and save for the future. Wemay even win the lottery. But when we have more than we need theLord expects that we use it not just for ourselves but also for others.What we do with the blessings we have makes all the difference.cMargaret AmatulliDoris AurelioMaria AurelioIrene BakerJohn BakerAntonio BelmonteMichael BerryMichael BlazevichLaverne BlumkaMichael BostonCheryl BostromRobert BoyleStephany BurneyDorothy CampbellJames CampbellThomas CakAl CarolloCarol CarolloJanet CattanachJacqueline MorrowChristianFrank ComanVincent CorselloMike CurtainJoseph CwiokMargaret DemkovichLucille DetterlineIrene DettmerAnn DeVoyMaryPat DevoyIrene DickeyJeanine DoescherAlex EilandJohn L. EstradaSherlon EvansVirginia FitzgeraldAnn Marie ForburgerJohn FordePhyllis GarberDenise GardAndrea GarritanoMargaret GearyDorothy GillespieJacqueleen GonzalezMargaret Goodlease pray for the sick of our parish...Howard GralewskiJames GrunewaldEileen HasseAmy HayesEleanore HeggiCharles HelmsMarie HenkeEvelyn HennesMegan HomchoMary Jo HumpferSteve IzzoDennis JablonskiLucas & Landon JablonskiElizabeth JacobBarbara JamroseStanley JayjackRosemary Jerzak-StaszelPenny JurkashDebbie KaczkaRobert KalkaJames Klein, Sr.Carol KeilmanJanet KnightSusan KolodziejMiller KrizmanicJerome KulaAnnika LeMonierDebbie LeMonierGene LeahyMary LeahyJo LisiniewiczEdward LiskiewiczStanley LiskiewiczMaria LovellCarole MackeyCharlene MaduraMary ManchakBrady MartinAlex MauJenny MendozaFaye MenySandi MerloStephanie MuellerOlga MihaloAndrew MollElissa MollDavid MollJean NarvidDonna NicholsSteven NowaczykValerie O’DonnellDanny OgrenEmily OroscoIrene OrzelChristine OsmulskiJohanna PetruchAndrew PieczyrakElizabeth PilonesSylvester PorrasTimothy RibbleKristen RubinAnthony SaklaczynskiRita SajnaAnn SardellaGeorge SauerMarie SchultzMarianne SchwartzWilliam SchwartzZachery ScriffJames SecviarJim SeulRenee ShehanThomas SkarbekNick SkinnerLydia SkorupaCarolyn SmileyGeorge SperlDeborah StareckFlorence StevensGeorgianne SutoCeline SzczepaniakCarrie SzumeldaRose TheisGerardo TrevinoKathie TrudgianAnthony UbuaneTony Vanden HeuvelJulia VrbanichPam WadyckiAdele WallCecilia ZieglerPage 4SUNDAY, August 4Schola Choir Concert at 6:00 p.m. in the ChurchMONDAY, August 57:00 pm Blue Army ~ Chapel7:00 pm Vocation Committee ~ Conference RoomTUESDAY, August 69:15 am Eucharistic Adoration (until 6:30 pm) ~ Chapel1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations ~ Chapel6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet ~ ChapelFRIDAY, August 99:00 am Gifts of Love & Warmth ~ Teachers’ LoungeSATURDAY, August 1010:00 am Oblates ~ Conference Room1:00 pm STMS Back to School Fair ~ GymSUNDAY, August 119:00 am STMS Back to School Fair ~ GymYour Parish Needs You!Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communionare needed for the 6:30 a.m. and 12:00 Noon Masses.To help contact Deacon Dan Zurawski at(219) 742-6005.Saturday, August 105:30 pmSteve & GloriaPestikasLectors for the WeekSunday, August 116:30 am MassPhil McIntosh & Linarae Mueller8:00 am MassJudy Buksa & Alice Wohler10:00 am MassAdam Baran & Keesha Hardaway12:00 Noon MassNick Anglin & Maryann PancheriVocations CommitteeVocations are born where faith is deepened, celebrated, livedand witnessed. This simple fact should be kept in mind byfamilies, parish communities, and by the communities ofreligious men and women.Readings for the Week of August 4thSunday: Eccl 1:2; 2:21-23/Col 3:1-5, 9-11/Lk 12:13-21Monday: Nm 11:4b-15/Mt 14:13-21Tuesday: Dn 7:9-10, 13-14/2 Pt 1:16-19/Lk 9:28b-36Wednesday: Nm 13:1-2, 25--14:1, 26-29a, 34-35/Mt 15:21-28Thursday: Nm 20:1-13/Mt 16:13-23Friday: Dt 4:32-40/Mt 16:24-28Saturday: 2 Cor 9:6-10/Jn 12:24-26Next Sunday: Wis 18:6-9/Heb 11:1-2, 8-19 or 11:1-2, 8-12/Lk12:32-48 or 12:35-40

The Pastor’s PageRESTLESSYou may have heard the old saying of St. Augustine, “Ourheart is restless until it rests in you.”I have really experienced that these past few weeks.One of the things that I hate about recovery time aftersurgery is that it gives you time — a great deal of time — tothink.I am not good when it comes to being alone with mythoughts.You might be surprised to hear that.After all, aren’t priests supposed to go away and be alonewith their thoughts (retreat) on a regular basis?Yes. We are supposed to do that.But, you know, a retreat generally lasts five or six days. Itis filled with a lot of activity such as talks, discussions, andfraternal get-togethers that consume a lot of our time.However, spending a few weeks at the house as my bodyheals can be really nerve-wracking!At those times, I tend to re-think all of my decisions.Being a perfectionist, that is a chronic problem. Given a lotof extra time, that problem turns into a major headache.Why did I do this instead of that? Why didn’t I think aboutthis? What could have been done better? What still needsto be done?The questions go on and on.Give me lots of things to do and little time to get themdone and I am happy.Give me lots of time on my hands with little to do but thinkand I can drive myself crazy. (Sometimes I think it’s a reallyshort drive at that!)That is why I am happy that the surgeon told me lastweek that I can start immersing myself more in my dailywork.I have now finished one week of outpatient therapy and Ihave three more to go before being completely discharged.However, at this time, I am well on my way to taking thereins again.I want to thank all of you who have been doing so muchof the work these past several weeks: Fr. Ben, our deacons,our staff, and the Carmelite Fathers. I really appreciate thehelp that you have given to me.It is good to get back into the saddle again, even if it is forshort periods of time.Hopefully, the surgeries are over now. Even though Ihave arthritis in other joints, it is not bothering me as muchas my hips had been. I must say, I am so thankful that Iwas born when I was, though. At least now they are doingthese kinds of surgeries with minimal invasiveness.Thank you, Dr. McComis (my surgeon) and Dr. Walsh (myinternist) for taking such good care of me. Let’s agree tosee each other in church and not in thehospital any more!Our Schola CantorumPresents A Summer ConcertTONIGHTSunday, August 4thAt 6:00 p.m.In The Church.Join us for a concertof sacred and secularchoral masterworks.Refreshments will be servedimmediately after the concert.There is no admittance feefor this performance.DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES?The Schola Cantorum is a group comprised totally of verytalented parishioners. Some of the members of our Scholahave recently graduated and will be moving away to college.If you feel that God has given you the gift of a beautifulvoice and you wish to share that with the parish community,you might want to consider auditioning for a place in theSchola.Contact Angie Lorandos (alorandos@stm-church.com) forfurther information about the Schola Cantorum.“You are great, Lord, and worthy of our highestpraise; your power is great and there is no limit toyour wisdom. Man, a tiny part of your creation,wishes to praise you.It is you who move man to delight in your praise.For you have made us for yourself, and our heartis restless until it rests in you.”~ St. AugustineON THE LIGHTER SIDEOverheard at the grocery storeI was visiting my daughter last night when I asked if Icould borrow a newspaper.“Come on, Dad. This is the twenty-first century,” she said.“We don't waste money on newspapers. Here, use myiPad.”I can tell you this, that fly never knew what hit him.PLEASE REMEMBER THEMPlease pray for the priests and deacons whohave served the Diocese of Gary so faithfullyand whose anniversaries of death are thisweek:August 5: Rev. Edward A. Zemelko, C.S.B. (2003)August 6: Msgr. John P. Biernacki (1960)Rev. James W. Koons (1998)Page 5

Actual For The Year Ending June 30, 2013 & Budgeted for Year Ending June 30, 20146-30-13 6-30-14REVENUES ACTUAL BUDGETSundays & Holydays $ 1,660,688 $ 1,660,000Interest Income 25,150 26,000Lease & Rental 326 500Misc. Other 40,510 40,000Religious Formation 50,504 50,000Restricted Donations 16,013 10,000Fundraisers 130,000 120,000Catholic Services Appeal Rebates 73,961 75,000Northwest Indiana Catholic 9,768 10,000CSA Payments Collected By Parish 110,004 110,000Special (2nd) Collections 79,469 79,500Insurance Recovery 92,902 0TOTAL RECEIPTS $ 2,289,295 $ 2,181,000EXPENSESClergy Services $ 62,139 $ 65,200Clergy Health/Retirement Benefits 44,577 48,900Lay/Admin/Maintenance Salaries 489,035 526,100Lay Health & Retirement Benefits 114,209 146,700Transportation 4,183 5,000Utilities 88,975 96,100Altar & Liturgical Supplies 100,597 72,500Maintenance & Repairs 33,987 38,500Food/Meals/Hospitality 48,651 45,000Printing/Postage/Office Supplies 22,004 20,000Furnishing & Equipment 1,011 2,000Property/Casualty/Auto Insurance 26,737 29,000Books & Supplies 16,463 18,000Pay NWI Catholic Subscriptions 16,486 17,000Quota Payment 132,870 134,000Remittance of CSA Pledge Pymts 109,995 110,000Religious Education Expenses 39,960 43,000Commission Expenses 42,389 43,500PR/Dues/Conferences 753 7,000Capital Expenses-Improvements 193,240 189,000Remittance of Special Collections 79,210 79,500Total Expenses $ 1,667,471 $ 1,736,000Net Operational $ 621,824 $ 445,000Total School Revenues 2,429,653 2,388,300Total School Expenses 2,876,215 2,833,300Net School Subsidy $ - 446,562 $ - 445,000Operational Less Subsidy 175,262 0Funds Deposited with Diocese - 24,978 - 176,000Increase in Current Liabilities 7,102 0Increase in Cash $ 157,386 $ - 176,000Beginning Cash Balance 312,331 469,717Ending Cash Balance $ 469,717 $ 293,717Additional ConsiderationsWith the Catholic Foundation as of 06/30/13 $ 922,078Annual Parish Festival Income ReportEven against the Blackhawks and a major NBA game, wedid quite well, this year. We have raised the following netincome over the past five years:2013 2012 2011 2010 2009$ 119,086 143,682 125,401 117,986 91,7512013 CSA REPORTOur parish goal was $117,341.As of July 31st, the amount pledged was $185,697.At this point in time, there are still several pledges invarious stages of being paid. We thank you for yourtimely contributions toward your pledges. When all thepledges are paid in full, the parish will realize $68,356.Our rebate this year is being applied to upgradingsecurity measures in our buildings as well as upgradingthe technology in our buildings. As you are probably wellaware, these can be costly items. Because of yourgenerosity, you are helping us greatly.Many thanks!WHERE ARE WE NOW?There are a few things that I would like to highlight inthis year’s finance report to you.While our contributions for Sundays and Holidays arefar better than many parishes in our diocese, I amasking you to consider at what level you are giving. Ifyou have not increased your contribution to the parishin some time and are financially able to do so, wouldyou consider giving your parish a raise? The fundsare needed for many projects that are in the planningstages as well as to keep up with ever-risingexpenses.You are a very generous people. You givegenerously to special collections such as the recenttornado relief. Thank you for helping out so manypeople in need.Our school finances are sound. Enrollment isprojected at 575 students and subsidy to the school isvery manageable. This is a testament to all of youwho take a very active role fundraising for the schoolas well as volunteering many hours in service: hoursthat would otherwise have to be paid for in contractingothers to do the work.Our parish footprint will be changing in the very nearfuture as our parish swaps some land with the Townof Munster. This is a win-win situation for both theparish and the Town and we have some excitingthings to look forward to when it happens. Moredetails on this should be coming to you within the nextseveral months.Not only do we have many people volunteering forschool events and activities, we also have hundredsof people who volunteer their time and talent invarious liturgical roles as well as at parish events.Just at the festival, alone, 526 people volunteeredtheir time. Your willingness to give of your time,talent, and treasure is truly inspiring.Let me take this opportunity to thank the members ofthe Parish Finance Committee for giving of their time andtheir expertise to keep an eye on the financial health ofour parish. As I have said, speaking with many of mybrother priests and being able to compare notes, ourparish is doing very well and it is something, I believe, allof you can be proud of. Thank you for yourgenerosity to St. Thomas More Church.Page 6

Religious EducationWe are still looking forCatechists for the Upcoming School Year.Please prayerfully consider giving of your time and talent to share your Faith with theyouth of St. Thomas More Parish.We can’t do it without you!If you are interested in becoming a Catechist, please contact theReligious Education office at (219) 836-8610. We hope to hear from you!We are also stillAccepting Registrations for the 2013/2014 School Year.Some classes and days are filling quickly, so please register as soon as possible.You can find registration forms on the parish website: www.stm-church.com under theReligious Education tab, or come to the Religious Education officeduring regular business hours.Virtus TrainingPlease attend if you volunteer with children.Virtus training is scheduled for Saturday, September 7th from10:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. in the Solar Room. The VirtusProgram deals with the awareness and prevention of the sexualabuse of children. Due to the content of the program, no childrenare permitted to attend the training.Anyone 18 years or older must be Virtus trained to volunteer orwork in the school or in the parish whenever children areinvolved in activities.Please email Carolyn McGill at cmcgill@stm-church.com toreserve your seat for this next Virtus training and to assure wehave enough materials for everyone.Please arrive promptly at 10:30 a.m. and enter through thegymnasium doors under the carport.Evening Scripture StudyThursday EveningsSeptember 5th to November 14thStudy Topic: The Book of GenesisAll adult parishioners are invited to join our Evening ScriptureStudy group. Again this session, we will be using theLittle Rock Scripture Study program.Each class includes prayer, group discussion about the week'sreading and commentary, and a video.This session, we will be doing an intermediate study of the bookof Genesis. A study of the book of Genesis is an invitation notonly to contemplate the creation story, but to remember with theIsraelites their ancestors in faith.Please join us for 11 weekly sessions onThursday evenings: September 5th - November 14th6:30 - 8:00 p.m. in the Parish Office Conference RoomThe cost of the program is $15.00 to cover the study materialsand will be collected at the first class.Please register by August 26th; call or email Carolyn McGill at(219) 836-8610; cmcgill@stm-church.com.To ensure that as many people as possible can participate, pleasedo not register if you know you will be unable to attend a numberof classes. We look forward to seeing you. Thank you!Holy Name SocietyThe Holy Name Society will begin its 2013/14 session onMonday, August 19th in the Solar Room.As in past years, we will begin with the Rosary at 7:00 p.m.,followed by a meeting to discuss our general business.Refreshments will served at the end of the business meeting.All men of the parish are invited and encouraged to attend.The Holy Name Society is a unique ministry that doesn’trequire a great time commitment and yet can provide thespiritual development you may need to grow closer to God andHis Church. Meetings usually conclude by 9:00 p.m. Comemeet other men of the parish and share in the fellowship.Save the Date!Our annual Evening of Reflection will be held onTuesday, September 17th at 6:00 p.m.with Retreat Leader, Fr. Rick Holy at the Carmelite Shrine .Catholic Charities Golf OutingThe Annual Catholic Charities Golf Outing will take place onMonday, August 26th at Briar Ridge Country Club inSchererville. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. Shotgun start at9:00 a.m. $150 per golfer. For info:(219) 886-3549, #331.My Two CentsThoughts on Living StewardshipEighteenth Sunday in Ordinary TimeIn today’s Gospel Jesus has an exchange with a person in thecrowd, who asks Jesus to tell his brother to share hisinheritance. Jesus states that it is not his role to interfere infamily disputes, but rather to teach family members how todiscern the best course of action. In this case Jesus states thathow to act is simple: greed is unacceptable and life is notdefined by possessions. Jesus continues by stating that Goddemands more of a disciple than self-centered greed. Goddemands that the disciple’s life be oriented toward God—focused on belonging to God and not attachedto the world’s goods.Page 7

August 4, 2013St. Thomas More SchoolSTMS Casino NightBe Part of Making It Happen!The St. Thomas More School Parent Association wants to host aCasino Night on Saturday, October 19thbut we cant’ do it without assistance from our parish community.We are currently looking for individuals with experience dealingcards or running a casino table for this school fundraising event.If you are interested in volunteering, please contactKristin Peters at kpeters999@gmail.com.We thank you in advance for your assistance.Back-to-School FairJoin the Parent Association onone of the following days:Saturday, August 10th3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m.Sunday, August 11th9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.Monday, August 12th6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.Enjoy this one-stop to complete yourstart-of-school paperwork and fees.Pay your Parent Association dues & party fees andcomplete your volunteer form to receiveYour Child’s 2013/14 Teacher Assignment.In addition, pick-up gym shirts & spirit wear,speak to representatives for ourAthletic Department, Parent Association andother STMS programs and pay your fundraiser fee(this will reduce requests for ourfall and Springfest fundraisers).See your Back-to-School letter dated July 16, 2013for all the details.DisabilitiesAwarenessWeekStudents Experience theChallenges of OthersEach year, St. Thomas More School students take partin a Disabilities Awareness Week during their PhysicalEducationclass. Underthe direction ofteacherMs. JessicaNoble,studentsperform everyday activitieswhile havingtheir normalabilitiescompromisedin some way,thus makingsimple tasks more difficult to complete. The studentsparticipated in many activities, from a wheelchairobstacle course to playingvolleyball & basketball whileseated, and quickly learned thatwhere one ability is challenged,another ability is strengthened.The focus of this week is tounderstandthechallengesof thosewhoconfrontphysical restrictions, beingtolerant and appreciative of theseindividuals, and to value allpersons by celebrating life and allabilities.Page 8

Today in Our Parish…Schola Cantorum ConcertThe entire parish is invited to attend!Schola Cantorumperforms a concert ofuplifting musicSunday, August 4th at6:00 p.m. in the Church.Free Admission• All InvitedRefreshments to FollowMigrant MassPlease join the St. Thomas More Peace and SocialJustice Commission as they invite all parishioners to this year’sMulti-Cultural Catholic Migrant MassToday, Sunday, August 4th4:00 p.m. at Herr Farm, Lowell, IN(maps can be found at all church entrances)Bring a lawn chair and a side dish, salad or dessert to share.If you would like to help set-up, please meet in theSTM south parking lot today; we will leave at 1:30 p.m. sharp.St. Vincent De Paul SocietyDonations are Needed During the Summer, Too!Laundry Detergent • Toothpaste • Razors • Toilet PaperHand Soap • Dish Soap • Shampoo • Paper TowelsDeodorant • Meal Side Dishes• Mac & Cheese • CondimentsPeanut Butter • Canned Meat • Canned FruitAny help you can give is greatly appreciated. Thank you.Respect Life CommitteeAnnual Diaper DriveSt. Thomas More is participating in aDiaper Driveduring the month of August toprovide diapers to more than sevenarea groups and agencies who dedicatetheir time to the assistance of mothersand their babies. If you would like tohelp, please drop-off your donateddiapers in the marked bins in thechurch vestibule or parish office.The following items are needed:All diaper sizes from Newborn (6-10 lbs.) to XX- Large (35+ lbs.)Also: Training Pants/Pull-Ups & Diaper WipesBaby Photo ContestDon’t forget to vote for your favorite baby at the Lake CountyRight to Life Baby Photo Contest Booth during the Lake CountyFair, August 2nd-11th in the Industrial Arts Building.Winners will be determined by popular vote. Donate to vote(there is no limit as to how much you can donate/vote).Page 9Theology on TapIf you are a young adult, age 21 to 39 (only), are home fromcollege for the summer, single, engaged, married, divorced, ormarried with children, please join us. There is no fee, just come!Theology on Tap is a casual forum where friends gather todiscuss topics relevant to young adults from a faith perspective.The mission of the program is to provide young adults from allwalks of life "straight talk, hard facts and real answers" on ourfaith — and the implications of our faith on our daily lives, ourcommunity & our society in a relaxed atmosphere.Next Session: Wednesday, August 7, 2013Presenter: Rev. Gerald SchwietzerWhat Happened at the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965)and Why Should I Care?Father Schwietzer is pastor of Sacred Heart in Wanatah, SaintMartin in La Cross and Saint Mary’s in Otis. He has been apriest of the Gary Diocese for 42 years. He is a well respectedspeaker in the Diocese and for Theology on Tap.All meetings are held on Wednesdays through August 7th7:00 p.m. at Crown Brewing Company211 S. East Street in Crown Point.Knights of ColumbusGolf OutingWicker Park in Highland on Saturday, August 10th.Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.Tee-offs begin at 8:30 a.m.Cost for this event $60 per person andincludes: 18 Holes of Golf with Cart,Food & Refreshments.All golfers will gather in a reservedpicnic area directly after playing wherefood and refreshment will be provided bythe STM Knights of Columbus.Open to all parish members and friends.To help us properly plan for this event, please pre-registerbefore August 7th by contactingDave Kritzer at dkritzer@sbcglobal.net orStan Lewandowski at sblew52@sbcglobal.netCYO Position AvailableThe Catholic Youth Organization is in need of a part-timeAssistant Program Coordinator.The ideal candidate must have knowledge of sports, rules ofsports, computer skills, and communication skillsalong with public speaking.Contact Paul at (219) 736-8931 or email: nwicyo@comcast.net.

STM CareerNetworking GroupWantedParishioners toAend the AnnualParish PicnicSunday,September 15, 2013Watch the bulletin for the low-downwith details and a registration form tofollow soon.Saddle-up and follow the herd to all thefun, delicious grub andspur-tappin’ tunes.80% of Jobs are Unadvertised70% of Jobs are Found through Networking15% Found through Search Firms • 10% Found through Want Ads4% Create Their Own Jobs • 2% Blindly Send ResumesThursday, August 15, 20137:00 – 9:00 pmJanel PolsterBenefits Representative at ArcelorMittalHiring Process & Getting HiredHow to Ask. .. How to Answer How Companies Hire How to Get HiredWhere: STMS Weis Center8635 Calumet Avenue • Munster, INWhen: The 3rd Thursday of Every MonthEmail: STMCareerGroup@gmail.comRegular Meetings are Free! Open to All!For those who are unemployed (in transition), new to the jobmarket, employed or who can offer employment opportunitiesthrough their current professional connections.Friends of the Poor WalkSaturday, September 28thLemon Lake County Park in Crown PointJoin St. Vincent De Paul for their Sixth Annual Friends of thePoor Walk and help your neighbors in need.Registration is from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m.The Walk begins at 10:00 a.m.St. Thomas More Vincentians will be in the narthex after allMasses on September 7th & 8th to register walkers.Ask your relatives and friends to join you for the Walk, or tosponsor you. Every dollar received from the Walk will benefitthose served by STM’s Vincentians.Contact Terry at (219) 972-0552 for more information.The Benedictine WayLooking for a balanced life, spiritual growth, attention to body,mind and spirit?All are welcome to join usSaturday, August 24th10:00 a.m.-12:00 Noon in the STM ParishConference Room where Sr. Ruth and Sr.Bobbi will share The Benedictine Way.The Rule rests on three main vows ofStability, Conversion and Obedience andrevolves around Prayer, Work, Study, Hospitality and Renewal.Alzheimer’s BenefitComfort Keepers is hosting “Raise a Glass to EndAlzheimer’s” Wine & Beer Tasting on Thursday, August 8thfrom 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Dynasty Banquets, 4125 CalumetAvenue in Hammond. Vocalist Peter Oprisko will perform.Buffet dinner & raffle. Donation: $35 per person.Reserve seats by calling Debbie at (219) 838-0808.Proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.Join us for an evening of fun for a worthy cause.Western Days FestivalSt. Mary Church in Griffith is now selling MegaPass tickets fortheir Western Days Festival at their parish office. MegaPass isfor all rides/all day for 4 days, August 15th– 18th. Cost is $60.For information, call (219) 924-4163.All-Day ScrapbookingCreator’s Corner, All-Day Scrapbooking and PapercraftingEvent on August 24th from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at St. Johnthe Evangelist School Gym, 9400 Wicker Ave, St. John. Costis $36 per person and includes table space, lunch, dinner,snacks, goody bag, games, vendors, door prizes, and raffles).Group rate available! Bring your supplies: pictures, paper,adhesive, tools, embellishments, etc.Registration required.To register: www.stjohnparish.org/cfi.php or (219) 308-4802.Page 10