1. Healthcare

The people who sit in darkness
have seen a great light;
on those dwelling in a land
overshadowed by death,
light has arisen.
Page
Mt 4:16
St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church
8501 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN 46321
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.......................... Madeleine Moya; 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…………………………Dale Slosser 836-8610
Pastoral Ministries
Environment & Art ............................................. Jean Bados 836-8610
Eucharistic Ministers ................................... Carole Mackey 808-9732
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
Christi Kordeck......................................................... Michael Korfiatis
Mary Kretz................................................................... Jim Landowski
Paul Liszewski, Chairperson............................................ Bill McDunn
Jesse Montenegro ..............................................................Joe O’Brien
Cindy Thompson ......................................................... Ruth Yothment
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............................................. Chet Nordyke, KCHS; 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
Parish & School Offices Associate ................. Pam Wadycki; Ext. 339
School Admissions .............................................. Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309
Weis Center
8635 Calumet Avenue ~ Munster, IN 46321
Phone .....................................................................................836-2660
Fax .........................................................................................836-2655
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.
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 ............................................................. Chris Bedenk 595-2470
Finance ................................................................ Barbara Shaver 838-9200
Gabriel Project……………………………….Carolyn Grskovich 455-9258
Garden Club ................................................................ Al Carollo 836-8268
Gifts of Love & Warmth……………………..Bernadine Nemeth 513-6544
Girl Scouts............................................................................. Renee Whelan
Holy Name Society .................................................... Joe Adams 865-3566
Knights of Columbus ....................................... Richard Alvarado 614-3743
K of C Columbian Squires…………………........Ralph Konkoly 588-4559
Moms’ Group .......................................................... Ann Meduga 629-6531
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
Please remember St. Thomas More
Page in
2 your Will and Estate Planning
Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
February 1, 2015
Saturday, February 7
5:30 p.m.
Fr. Mike Yadron
Sunday, February 8
6:30 a.m.
8:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
12:00 Noon
SUNDAY, February 1 — Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased
8:00 am Frank Kish by Wife Pat & Family
10:00 am Roland Kwasny by Ike & Jackie Rench
12:00 pm In Thanksgiving for 63 Years of Marriage of
Carmen & Mary Ann Cammarata
Carmelite Priest
Carmelite Priest
Fr. Mike Yadron
Fr. Mike Yadron
SATURDAY, February 7
8:30 am
C. & M. Osmulski
5:30 pm
M. Caraher, M. Childs, S. Donovan,
A. & L. Forszt/ MC ~ Ricky
SUNDAY, February 8
6:30 am
O. Lerma, M. & R. Maldonado
8:00 am
K. Yaeger, A. Zajakowski, V. Zaczyk,
E. & M. Buksa/ MC ~ Matt
10:00 am
A., M., S. & W. McDunn, J. Olivencia
MC ~ Joey
12:00 pm
A. & M. Reynolds, D. Arambula/ MC ~ Tim
MONDAY, February 2 — Presentation of the Lord
6:30 am Trudy Surufka (Ann.) by Husband Lou Surufka
8:30 am Cletus O’Drobinak by Rosemary Balka
TUESDAY, February 3 — St. Blaise
6:30 am Jo Ann Long (Ann.) by Marilyn Pajor
8:30 am Melvin Nondorf by Wife Luella
10:00 am Intention of Margaret Kapala by Dan & Mary Lou
Zurawski
(MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 2)
WEDNESDAY, February 4
6:30 am Carmen Garcia (Ann.) by Serrano Family
8:30 am Elvira Ferrara (Ann.) by Daughters Tina & Maria
THURSDAY, February 5 — St. Agatha
6:30 am Dr. Herbert Medina by Susan & Dennis McCoy
9:00 am Amanda L. Serrano (Ann.) by Serrano Family
FRIDAY, February 6 — St. Paul Miki & Companions —
First Friday
6:30 am Bill McCullum (Ann.) by Cabrera Family
8:30 am Joseph Oblon (Ann.) by Robert & Virginia Gauger
Nancy Marciniak
Sacrificial Offerings
January 25, 2015
Adult
Loose
Children
$ 19,628.00
$ 2,677.00
$ 223.69
TOTAL
$ 22,528.69
Thank you for your generosity
and stewardship toward our parish!
SATURDAY, February 7 — First Saturday
8:30 am Eugene Sepaniak (Ann.) by Family
5:30 pm Eugene Marlowe (Ann.) by Wife Wanda & Family
SUNDAY, February 8 — Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased
8:00 am Intention of Dave & Judie Zawada by Fred &
Diane Price
10:00 am Edward & Carrie Wisniewski by Helene Nelson
12:00 pm Rufino Aquino Sr. (Ann.) by Aquino Family
February Nursery Schedule
World Day of Prayer
Sunday, February 1
for Consecrated Life
Ann Harkenrider & Katherine Pala
The Carmelite Fathers in Munster invite you to
the Monastery on
Sunday, February 8
Monday, February 2, 2015 at 10:30 a.m.
Chris & Casey Perz
for a special Mass to celebrate the World Day of Prayer for
Consecrated Life, with presider
Sunday, February 15
Bishop Donald Hying,
Kim Cipowski & Lisa Jorsch
The Nursery is located
in the Bride’s Room
during the Sunday
10:00 a.m. Mass.
the new Bishop of the Gary Diocese.
In addition, there will be a short Eucharistic adoration with a
short conference at 1:30 p.m. in the church. All are welcome!
Page 3
Sunday, February 22
Michelle Wendlinger &
Susie Kinsella
Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
"The people were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one
having authority and not as the scribes." Jesus was doing something
different. His teaching was new, fresh, surprising. The Jewish people
were used to the teaching style of their scribes, the scholars who
interpreted the Scriptures and taught the corresponding laws. The
scribes were legalists by trade, who focused on what was required of
the Jews based on the holy writings. For them, the law was dominant.
But when Jesus showed up in the synagogue and began to teach, he
was dominant. As the incarnate Son of God, he spoke with an
authority that was greater even than the religious laws.
And just in case those who heard him doubted his legitimacy, Jesus
proved his authority by more than words; he cast out evil spirits. When
the people witnessed Jesus commanding "even the unclean spirits" and
saw that these spirits obeyed him, they were "amazed" at this "new
teaching with authority."
What our Jewish ancestors experienced is recorded for us to bolster
our own faith. Although we were not there to see these events unfold,
if we meditate on the reality of today's Gospel story we will also be
astonished and amazed. Jesus is more than a teacher. He is more than a
kind man with an attractive philosophy. Jesus has power over the
spiritual world! His authority over us is real. And he exercises this
authentic authority for our own good. He has the power to do away
with evil and to set us free, both through his teachings--passed on to us
in the Bible and in the Church--and through his action in our lives. We
only need to follow his lead.
c lease pray for the sick of our parish...
Joshua Alvarez
Margaret Amatulli
Doris Aurelio
Maria Aurelio
Irene Baker
Antonio Belmonte
Michael Berry
Michael Blazevich
Laverne Blumka
Stanley Bochnowski
Michael Boston
Cheryl Bostrom
Robert Boyle
Stephany Burney
Paul Burns
Dorothy Campbell
James Campbell
Thomas Cak
Al Carollo
Carol Carollo
Janet Cattanach
Jacqueline Morrow
Christian
Frank Coman
Vincent Corsello
Mike Curtain
Margaret Demkovich
Lucille Detterline
Irene Dettmer
Ann DeVoy
MaryPat Devoy
Irene Dickey
Jeanine Doescher
Alex Eiland
Sherlon Evans
John Forde
Phyllis Garber
Denise Gard
Andrea Garritano
Margaret Geary
Dorothy Giannini
Emily Gibson
Dorothy Gillespie
Shirley Gillespie
Jacqueleen Gonzalez
Margaret Good
Howard Gralewski
James Grunewald
Paul Hasselbring
Amy Hayes
Eleanore Heggi
Marie Henke
Evelyn Hennes
Bernadine Henson
Marisol Hernandez
Becky Hill
Megan Homcho
Mary Jo Humpfer
Betty Ingbretson
Steve Izzo
Dennis Jablonski
Elizabeth Jacob
Barbara Jamrose
Stanley Jayjack
Rosemary Jerzak-Staszel
Penny Jurkash
Debbie Kaczka
Robert Kalka
James Klein, Sr.
Carol Keilman
Janet Knight
Susan Kolodziej
Miller Krizmanic
Jerome Kula
Annika LeMonier
Debbie LeMonier
Richard LaVigne
Mary Leahy
Jo Lisiniewicz
Edward Liskiewicz
Stanley Liskiewicz
Maria Lovell
Charlene Madura
Mary Manchak
Brady Martin
Jenny Mendoza
Faye Meny
Sandi Merlo
Stephanie Mueller
Olga Mihalo
Andrew Moll
Elissa Moll
David Moll
Jean Narvid
Donna Nichols
Steven Nowaczyk
Valerie O’Donnell
Danny Ogren
Emily Orosco
Christine Osmulski
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
Dennis Skarupa
Nick Skinner
Lydia Skorupa
Kathryn Slack
Carolyn Smiley
Deborah Stareck
Florence Stevens
Georgianne Suto
Celine Szczepaniak
Carrie Szumelda
Barbara Szypczak
Rose Theis
Gerardo Trevino
Kathie Trudgian
Anthony Ubuane
Tony Vanden Heuvel
Raymond Vanderbok
Julia Vrbanich
Pam Wadycki
Adele Wall
Charlotte Weglewski
Stephanie Wisniewski
Don Woszczynski
Cecilia Ziegler
Cody Ziemkowski
SUNDAY, February 1
St. Thomas More School Catholic Schools Week Concludes
Honorees at 10:00 a.m. Mass
MONDAY, February 2
7:00 pm
Blue Army ~ Chapel
7:00 pm
Schola ~ Church
7:00 pm
Parish Life ~ Conference Room
TUESDAY, February 3
9:15 am
Eucharistic Adoration (until 6:30 pm) ~ Chapel
9:30 am
Moms’ Group ~ Carmelite Monastery
1:00 pm
Prayer/Vocations ~ Chapel
6:00 pm
Divine Mercy Chaplet ~ Chapel
7:00 pm
RCIA ~ Conference Room
WEDNESDAY, February 4
9:30 am
Bible Study ~ Conference Room
4:30 pm
Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 pm)
5:00 pm
RCIC ~ Conference Room
6:00 pm
Handbell Practice ~ Church
7:00 pm
STMS Parent Association ~ Solar Room
THURSDAY, February 5
4:30 pm
Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 pm)
6:30 pm
Scripture Study ~ Classroom # 101
7:00 pm
All Seasons Chorale ~ Church
FRIDAY, February 6
9:00 am
Gifts of Love & Warmth ~ Conference Room
SATURDAY, February 7
8:00 am
First Saturday Rosary ~ Church
5:00 pm — Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest ~ Gym
SUNDAY, February 8
Blood Drive from 8:00 a.m.-12:00 Noon in the Gym
Readings for Week of February 1
Sunday: Dt 18:15-20/1 Cor 7:32-35/Mk 1:21-28
Monday: Mal 3:1-4/Heb 2:14-18/Lk 2:22-40 or 2:22-32
Tuesday: Heb 12:1-4/Mk 5:21-43
Wednesday: Heb 12:4-7, 11-15/Mk 6:1-6
Thursday: Heb 12:18-19, 21-24/Mk 6:7-13
Friday: Heb 13:1-8/Mk 6:14-29
Saturday: Heb 13:15-17, 20-21/Mk 6:30-34
Next Sunday: Jb 7:1-4, 6-7/1 Cor 9:16-19, 22-23/Mk 1:29-39
Pastoral Care Ministry
Hospital Visits—In compliance with HIPAA legislation, hospitals
do not notify our parish about parishioner hospitalizations unless
requested to do so by the patient or patient's family. If you or a
family member are at Community Hospital, call the Parish Office
At (219) 836-8610.
Home Communion—If you or a family member would like to
receive home Communion, call Pastoral Care at
(219) 836-8610, extension 313.
Page 4
The Pastor’s Page
A LIGHT FOR THE DARKNESS
The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light;
on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death,
light has arisen. (Mt 4:16)
Light is an image that is used quite often in the Church's
liturgy. It is most prominent, of course, in the Masses of
Easter, beginning with the Vigil Mass of Easter when the fire
and Paschal Candle are blessed. As the Paschal Candle is
processed into the church at the Vigil Mass, we sing,
"Christ, our light! Thanks be to God!"
Light is very important. Without it, things can look very
bleak. We know that to be the case especially at this time
of year. The winter months often are darker than usual. In
the prolonged darkened days of the season, many people
become depressed. There is even an illness associated
with this time of year and the lack of natural sunlight: SAD
(Seasonal Affective Disorder).
Light is not only important, light is crucial. If we were to lose
the sunlight, crops would die since they use the process of
photosynthesis to convert sunlight to chemical energy to
fuel the cell's organisms.
When they are exposed to prolonged dark, plants die.
When we live in spiritual darkness, we run the risk of dying
spiritually. If we lose the light of Christ, we end up living in
the darkness of sin and death.
There is a remedy. Jesus Christ is the light that permeates
all darkness. Though we had lived in a land of darkness
and gloom, Jesus' death and resurrection restored light to
our world and sight to our eyes. It is that lifesaving moment
we celebrate each and every time we gather around the
table of the Lord.
Being a people of the light, our challenge is to share that
light with others who may need it. There are many people
who live in the darkness of sin and, consequently, risk the
darkness of eternal death. To them we are called to bring
the light of Christ.
He has come into our world and He asks us to share Him
with those most in need.
Last Sunday, we began our celebration of Catholic
Schools Week. At the vast majority of Masses, our students
participated as lectors, cantors, gift-bearers, and choirs (bell
choir as well as student choir). Students also handed out
“thank you” notes to parishioners as they came in the doors
because the students recognize that our parish gives a lot of
time, talent, and financial aid to the school.
At the end of most of our Masses, the students also got up
to thank the parishioners in a big way (see the photo above).
We are privileged to have a school at our parish. I hope
and pray that we will be able to maintain our school for many
years.
We have contributed greatly to the community at large.
Our graduates often go on to excel in their future studies.
Many of our graduates are valedictorians or salutatorians in
high school or college. Many more graduate at the top 10%
of their classes.
Thank you to all who help us keep our school strong!
ON THE LIGHTER SIDE
The police went to a house and, when the
owner answered the door, said, “Your dog
chased someone on a bike.”
Always the grammar expert, the
homeowner replied, “You must be wrong,
officer. My dog doesn’t even own a bike.”
FAITH ACTION: Resolve to be a shining light for others to
follow by the words you choose to speak and the actions
you choose to do today.
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 2: Rev. Dennis Teles (2014)
February 3: Msgr. Francis A. Rego (1987)
February 4: Rev. Stephen J. Vrabely (1994)
Reverend John Beckmann (1996)
February 5: Rev. Vincent E. Eckert (1978)
February 6: Deacon Alexander Saims (2008)
Page 5
Religious
Education
Blood Drive
Heartland Blood Centers is sponsoring a Blood Drive on
Sunday, February 8th
8:00 a.m. until 12:00 Noon in the St.
Thomas More Gym.
Walk-ins are welcome. Photo I.D. required.
Heartland Blood Centers is the sole provider of
blood products to nine hospitals in Northwest
Indiana, including Community Hospital.
February Schedule
4/5
11/12
14
18/19
25/26
Class
Class
Sacrament of First Penance at 9:30 a.m.- Church
No Class — Ash Wednesday
Class
Lectors for the Week
March Schedule
4/5
11/12
18/19
25/26
Sunday, February 8
6:30 am Mass
John Brooks & Robert Hill
Class
Class
Class
No Class — Spring Break
Saturday, February 7
5:30 pm Mass
Jay Gianotti &
Ann Harkenrider
Vocations Committee
With all our electronic devices and remote control belongings,
we should have time to pray a lot more; it’s
prayer that gets us the most.
Why don’t we spend one hour a week in adoration or say a
Rosary each day, or attend a morning Mass once a week, or
spend two hours of fast and prayer each day?
We could be world-changers!
8:00 am Mass
Judy Buksa & Jim Kaspar
10:00 am Mass
Theresa Kowalski &
James Landowski
12:00 Noon Mass
Leonard & Valerie Czapkowicz
Greeters for the Week
Saturday, February 7
5:30 pm Mass
Main: Bill & Chris Retseck
Chapel: Don & Carol Kopenec
Choir: Ed Lebryk & Judy
Millspaugh
The Benedictine Way
Please join us on
Saturday, February 14th
from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 Noon in the
St. Thomas More Conference Room as the
Oblates prayer group discusses the gospel
message by Lectio Divina. All are welcome!
Sunday, January 25
6:30 am Mass
Main: Jan Holka
Chapel: Lyle & Shirley Fralich
Choir: Karen & Tim Rutz
10:00 am Mass
Main: Denise & Tim Szorc &
Allison Rusnak
Chapel: Zuccarelli Family
Choir: Dwight & Mary Ann
Reed
8:00 am Mass
Main: Dennis & Lucy Perz
Chapel: Mary Silvasi
Choir: Lois Quinn
12:00 Noon Mass
Main: Diane Gralewski
Chapel: Kreig Family
Choir: Pat Batchelder
Holy Name Society
Monthly Meeting
The next regular meeting for the Holy Name Society will be on
Monday, February 16th at 7:00 p.m.
in the Solar Room. The Rosary, our business meeting, discussion
about the Fish Fry & refreshments will comprise the evening.
Ushers’ Club
Holy Name Society Fish Fry & Raffle
Thank you to all who attended last week’s Pancake Breakfast.
Join the Holy Name Society for their annual
Lenten Fish Fry on
Congratulations to the winners of this year’s
annual Ushers’ Club Raffle:
Friday, February 27th
Theresa Grdina — $600
Maxine Conway — $100
H. Yekel — $100
Kathy Zarth — $100
Ron Bickel — $100
4:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. in the STM Gym
Adults: Only $8.00
Children (13 & under): Only $4.00
North Atlantic Cod with Shrimp
Fries • Cole Slaw • Beets • Bread/Butter
Beverages • Beer & Wine Available
Carry out or eat in. Tickets at the door.
We appreciate your continued support.
We look forward to seeing everyone again next January when
we do it all over again. Hope to see you then!
Page 6
February 1, 2015
St. Thomas More School
Catholic Schools Week
Begins at St. Thomas More School
Catholic Schools Week began last Sunday
and is celebrated by more than
8,000 Catholic schools nationwide.
At St. Thomas More School, we dedicate the
week to service. In addition, we make every
effort to show our great appreciation to all
those who make our Catholic
education possible.
To begin the week, we “Celebrated
Vocations” on Monday, January 26th.
Students in 5th through 8th grades joined
Fr. Mike, Fr. Ted, Deacon Joe Stodola
and Deacon Dave Kapala in the Church
after Mass for a question and answer
session about vocations. The students’
questions were insightful and the answers
they received were interesting. It was a
wonderful opportunity for our students to
get a glimpse into the lives of those who
guide and serve our parish every day. The
morning proved to be a rewarding
and memorable experience for the students and staff alike.
The day continued as Fr. Mike, Fr. Ted and the Deacons
personally visited the classrooms of the1st through 4th grades
for another question and answer period geared to our younger
students. And, once again, the students’ questions were
perceptive, interesting, and sometimes even a bit humorous.
Thank you Fr. Mike, Fr. Ted, Deacon Joe and Deacon Dave
for sharing your day with our students. It was a unique and
rewarding experience for each child and one that they will not soon forget.
We are so blessed to have each one of you at St. Thomas More!
As one of the many service projects of
the week, St. Thomas More School
students collected non-perishable food
items for the St. Vincent De Paul
Food Pantry.
The response was overwhelming,
with over thirty bags, and nearly
400 pounds of food and personal
hygiene products donated for
those in our community who
need assistance.
Thank you to our generous school families for donating.
Page 7
Tuition Assistance Program
Part Time Custodians Needed
for the 2015-2016 School Year Now Underway
St. Thomas More Parish Positions Available
Tuition assistance application forms for the 2015-2016 school
year are now available in the Parish Office.
Catholic families who belong to a Diocese of Gary parish and
have their children enrolled in any diocesan school, Kindergarten
through Grade 12, may apply.
Preschool and pre-kindergarten students are not eligible.
A $30.00 non-refundable processing fee must accompany your
application. Approximately $500,000 is distributed on the basis
of need to assist Catholic parents in providing Catholic faith
formation, strong academic programs and safety for their children
in our Catholic schools.
Responsibilities include cleaning
offices and restrooms, as well as event
set-ups for church and school. 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: Sunday 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and
Monday through Thursday 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
The filing deadline is Monday, February 16, 2015.
Position Two:
This is the date that completed applications must be
returned to the pastor.
PSAS will not accept any applications mailed directly to the
company. This deadline will be strictly enforced. Parents will be
notified of the results in writing by April 30, 2015.
Hours: Monday through Friday 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
If interested, please apply in person at the STM Parish Office:
St. Thomas More Church • 8501 Calumet Avenue • Munster, IN
Questions? Please contact Karla Baldwin: (219) 836-8610, x331.
Senior Citizens
Mary’s Way of the Cross
Come journey with Mary on her
“Way of the Cross.”
Relive the journey to Calvary. With Mary’s
assistance, let us walk Jesus’ last steps with
his mother; let our faith deepen and allow
Jesus to rise once more in our life!
Thursdays after the 9:00 a.m. Mass
in the Church:
Thursday, February 26th • Thursday, March 5th
Thursday, March 12th • Thursday, March 19th
Thursday, March 26th
Everyone is welcome! Bring your friends, too!
Senior citizens of our parish are invited to join our group.
Meetings are held at 1:00 p.m. in the Kish Community Room,
10000 Calumet Avenue in Munster (unless otherwise noted).
Wednesday, February 4th
Business Meeting.
Our guest speaker for this meeting will be a representative
from the Treasure Chest Foundation.
Saturday, February 21st
Pizza Party from 12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. in the Solar Room.
All those with their membership in good standing are invited.
Wednesday, March 4th
Business Meeting.
Our guest speaker will be a representative from the
Dorothy Purcell Pro-Life Foundation.
NWI Catholic Subscription Drive
Make a real time connection with your faith by bringing a
Catholic publication into your home each week.
Now is the time to renew or begin a new subscription to the
Northwest Indiana Catholic, our diocesan newspaper.
A one year subscription (43 issues), including our annual
diocesan directory, is only $26. Each week you’ll read Catholic
news from around the country, as well as the Vatican and
elsewhere in the world. Learn how diocesan parishes are working
to spread the Good News in our local communities.
This year, enjoy learning more about Bishop Donald J. Hying
through his own weekly column. Grow in the Catholic faith with
articles and photos that will educate, inspire and encourage
reflection and conversation for all ages.
All for less each week than loose pocket change! Isn’t it worth
staying current with our Church?
Subscribe by March 8, 2015 using the envelope provided in your
collections packet or make your check out to St. Thomas More in
the amount of $26 (please note it’s for the Northwest Indiana
Catholic) and drop it into the Sunday collection basket.
Or go to nwicatholic.com and pay securely using your Visa,
Mastercard or Discover debit or credit cards.
Stay informed. Stay connected!
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Saturday, March 21st
Pot Luck Luncheon
12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. in the Solar Room.
All those with their membership in good standing
are invited to attend.
Sunday, March 29th
Mass & Breakfast to Honor Deceased Members
8:00 a.m. Mass with Breakfast to follow in the Cafeteria.
Reservations are required. All those with their membership in
good standing are invited to attend.
You Did It For Me
Displaced Iraqi families could not be more gracious, friendly
and kind. They come from diverse backgrounds--Christian,
Yazidi, and Shia. One thing they all have in common: they have
fled their homes in fear. CRS is working with the local Catholic
Church to provide relief and care for thousands in the area. To
date, Caritas Iraq and CRS have provided supplies to 4,350 displaced families in Erbil, Ninewa, Dahuk, Zakho and Amedi.
To learn more, please visit CRS.org/you-did-it-for-me.
All Night Vigil to End Abortion
STM Career
Networking Group
An All Night Vigil to Save a Thousand Souls, end abortion and
find peace will be held at the
Carmelite Monastery, 1628 Ridge Road in Munster.
First Friday/First Saturday, February 6th/7th with
the Vigil beginning
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
6:00 p.m. Mass on Friday, February 6th.
Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, prayers and a
candlelight procession will be part of the evening.
Refreshments will be served.
Sponsored by the Blue Army of Our Lady of Fatima.
For information, call Rose Marie at (219) 836-8779.
Thursday, February 19, 2015
7:00 p.m.– 9:00 p.m.
Entrepreneurship
Starting A Business
Catholic Charities Counseling
Catholic Charities offers counseling services to individuals,
families and children on a sliding fee scale.
Call (219) 844-4883 for more information.
Dushan Nikolovski
Director, Center for Entrepreneurship Success
at Purdue University Calumet & Creator of www.thebigsell.org
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.
Bulletin Articles
Please note that all bulletin articles must be submitted at least two
weeks in advance via email to: [email protected]
CSA Tax Receipts
Acknowledgement letters/receipts for those who donated
$200 or more to the Catholic Services Appeal are
available upon request only by contacting
Joyce Illyes at (219) 769-9292, ext. 268 or [email protected].
Our St. Thomas More
Ministries in Action
What are you waiting for? Get involved; it’s fun!
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Share Foundation Needs You
Share Foundation with the Handicapped is looking for individuals
to work at weekend camps for developmentally disabled adults. If
you are fun-loving, over the age of 16 & want to share your time
& talents with our special campers as staff members. Our
weekend Spring Mini-Camps are held once a month from
February through May. Dates are: February 20-22, March 27-29,
April 17-19 and May 15-17. Please call Nick Roland at
(219)778-2585 or [email protected].
Valentine’s Dinner/Dance
The Knights of St. James Church in Highland are hosting a
Valentine’s Day Dinner/Dance Party at St. James Parish Hall on
Saturday, February 14th. Cost is $60/couple and includes a dinner
buffet, dessert, favors, DJ music and a cash bar. Doors open at
5:30 p.m. Dinner begins at 6:30 p.m. with dancing to follow until
Midnight. Tickets sold in advance by contacting Bob at
(219) 742-7013 or Robert at (219) 776-8773. Space is limited.
Events at
St. Mary-Griffith
Super Raffle & Super
Raffle Party
The Men’s Club is hosting a
Super Raffle & Party on
Sunday, February 1st at St.
Mary-Hildebrandt Hall,
525 N. Lafayette Street in
Griffith. Total Super Raffle
prize money will be $3,750.
Tickets are $10 each or 3/$20.
Drawing will take place at the
party. Doors open 45 minutes
before the big game. Food,
drinks & door prizes.
Admission is $20 after. Call Joe Rossi at (219) 838-7722.
cash raffle. Sponsored by the St. John Bosco Home & School
Association to benefit St. John Bosco School.
For more info, call Jessica at (219) 746-5466.
Homemade Pierogi
St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Church (Ridge & White Oak) is
offering a weekly Pierogi Sale. Orders must be received prior to
Thursday of the pick-up week. Pick-up on Friday afternoons,
Noon to 4:00 p.m. at the church. Call (219) 838-9811 (leave
name, phone & amount/flavor). Potato, kraut, cheese or prune.
Cost: $9/dozen & $4.50/half-dozen.
Wounded Healers
The winter session of Wounded Healers, a non-denominational
grief support group, has already begun. Upcoming meetings are:
February 4, February 18, March 4 & March 18.
Separate groups for those dealing with the death of a spouse,
parent, child/grandchild, sibling and for those dealing with loss
due to suicide. Meetings are
at St. James Church in
Highland on Wednesdays
evenings from
7:00-8:30 p.m.
Call (219) 924-5577.
Harbor Lights
Concert
Valentine’s Day Dinner/Dance
Join the St. Mary Men’s Club for a Valentine’s Day Dinner/Dance
on Saturday, February 14th from 5:00-11:00 p.m. in Hildebrandt
Hall. Hors’d oeuvres, beer and wine will accompany dinner.
Music provided by DJ Mike Lively. Cost is $40/person or
$75/couple. Call Bill at (219) 712-2629 or Joe at (219) 838-7733
for tickets or more information.
Retrouvaille Marriage Weekend
Spend time learning strategies for airing marital grievances and
sustaining intimacy while free from everyday distractions. Build
upon the communication skills of the weekend and learn conflict
management techniques. Led by couples who have rebuilt their
own relationship. Retrouvaille of NWI will host its next weekend
February 13-15 at the Hilton Garden Inn of Chesterton. For info,
call (708) 802-1830 or (800) 470-2230. Confidentiality is
guaranteed. Upcoming dates: www.HelpOurMarriage.com.
St. John Bosco Winter Extravaganza
Saturday, February 21st from 6:00 p.m.-12:00 Midnight. Enter
through Door A. $25/person. Buffet dinner & live show by Towle
Theatre actors. Vegas-style gaming, cash bar, silent auction &
St. Edward Church in
Lowell, at 216 South Nichols
Street, is proud to announce
the return of Harbor Lights a
cappella singing group to
perform on Saturday,
February 21st for a night of
fun entertainment. Take a
musical journey back to the 50s and 60s with this dynamic show.
Enjoy a dinner of Italian beef sandwiches, sides, drinks and
dessert before the show at 6:30 p.m. The show begins promptly at
7:30 p.m. Tickets are on sale now by calling (219) 696-7307 for
$20/person (includes dinner and the show). Seats are limited and
the show sells out early every year, so don’t delay.
Faith Enrichment Book Club
St. James the Less Faith Enrichment program invites parishioners
from neighboring parishes join a 5 week book club session with
an additional Q&A session with the author. The session begins on
February 26th and you can learn more by contacting Phyllis
Steiner at (219) 934-0967 or [email protected].
Celebrate the Year of Consecrated Life!
Visit the Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of
Consolation, located in Carey, Ohio and celebrate 2015: “The
Year of Consecrated Life” in accordance with Pope Francis’
designation to call attention to the life and ministry of vowed
religious men and women. Enjoy a prayerful and spiritual
experience while at the shrine. Perfect for youth groups, men’s or
women’s groups, ministry teams, seniors and families. To plan a
visit or retreat, email: www.olcshrine.com or contact Program
Director, Brother Randy Kin at (419) 396-7107.
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