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November 18, 2023 | Parish Update

Using our Gifts. Help decorate our church. Pray for loved ones estranged from the Faith @ MWMA. Start Thanksgiving Day by giving thanks at the 9am Mass. Pray the Diocese of Joliet Novena of Grace starting 11/25!

View the full posting at our Flocknote email (don’t forget to join so you can receive the update via email).

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From the P.I.T. (Pastor In Training)

Growing up, my next-door neighbor and good friend had all the talents: from cool toys and a pool in the back yard to the newest gaming system. On top of that, he was the better natural athlete. I was constantly comparing myself to my friend. There was a lot of discouragement that I felt and it showed the depth and depravity of the sin of jealousy.  

There are over 8 billion people in the world. Out of the 8 billion people that God created, how many are the same as you and me? Exactly no one else! It is crazy to realize that each human being is unrepeatable and beautifully made. Everyone is put on this earth by God, and given a variety of unique gifts and talents.    

Yet, it’s amazing how we can constantly find ourselves stuck in the cycle of comparison and jealously.  The reason why jealousy is so dangerous is because it blinds us to the gifts the Lord has given each and every one of us. Catholic writer G.K. Chesterton said, “Gratitude, being nearly the greatest of human duties, is also nearly the most difficult.”     

In reading our Gospel, we can get caught up in comparing the number of talents the Lord has given us. In the story, the master gives talents to his servants. One was given five, another two, and finally the last servant was only given one. At the end of the story, we might ask why the servant with one talent failed to even invest it. Maybe it was because he was discouraged by jealousy, and was comparing himself with the servants who had two or five. 

Yet, the importance of the Gospel is not in how many talents we are given, but in what we do with the talents! The Lord gives unique gifts to each person. And yes, some gifts are different and are given in different proportions. And that’s okay! The question we need to focus on is “How can I use the gifts the Lord has given me?” At the end of the parable, the servant with five talents and the servant with two talents both received the same reward because they used their talents wisely. Let us turn away from jealousy and comparison and ask the Lord for the ability to see the gifts we have received and for the strength to use those gifts for his glory.  

Father Michael

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Did you miss one? View past news from the P.I.T. here.

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THIS COMING WEEK

St. Vincent De Paul Clothing Drive 11/18 & 11/19

• The St. Vincent DePaul truck will be in our parking lot the weekend of November 18 & 19th for our Clothing Drive!! Drop off donations before and after the 4pm Mass on Saturday, and on Sunday until noon.  
• We will accept clothing, shoes, linens and books in good or bad condition. Unusable clothing, shoes, linens, and even books generate income for the needy because they are sold for rags or in bulk.  No baby equipment such as cribs, walkers, strollers, playpens, etc. ALL BABY CLOTHES ACCEPTED Small housewares and electronics – dishes, glassware, utensils, toasters, blenders, coffee makers, radios, cd players etc. SORRY NO TELEVISIONS.   

Pick Up a Birchwood Ornament to Help Decorate our Church 11/18 & 11/19

• Help us decorate the narthex for Christmas by taking a birchwood disk (one per family) the weekend of November 18 & 19th
• Decorate your ornament and return it to the parish by the weekend of December 9 & 10th. A drop off table will be in the narthex after weekend masses or you may drop it off at the parish office during the week 
• If you would like to pick it up after the Christmas Season, you are responsible to get it from the narthex after weekend masses on Jan 13/14
•  Placement on the trees will be at the discretion of the arts & environment committee 
• Questions? Please reach out to our Arts & Environment committee at aandeolm@gmail.com

Second collection for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) 11/18 & 11/19 

• Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     Our diocese will soon take up the national collection for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD). Your support for this collection November 18/19 brings change to communities across the country and empowers those living in poverty to transform their communities into reflections of the Kingdom of God. In addition to making a national impact, you empower those living in poverty in our own diocese, because one quarter of our collection stays within the Diocese of Joliet.
       Local grant recipients in our diocese include emergency assistance and food pantry supplies for St. Vincent De Paul chapters, vocational job training for adults with disabilities, and community outreach programming for at-risk youth and families. (This year OLM PADS/Hesed House Ministry were recipients of a $3,500 monetary grant which was used to purchase a full size insulated holding cabinet, which will help us keep food warm at our OLM kitchen, prior to being transported to Hesed House).     When you contribute to CCHD in your parish, not only do you help address the symptoms of poverty, but your donation also helps alleviate the root causes of poverty—both globally and locally. Twenty-five percent of your donation stays in your diocese to support organizations making a difference in the lives of your neighbors.     Please prayerfully consider how you can help CCHD this year. If you would like more information about the collection and the people it supports, visit the “CCHD Collection” section on the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ website at usccb.org/cchd.     Thank you for joining us to work on the margins. With every good wish, may God bless you.      As I remain –
       Sincerely yours in Christ,
       Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks

PADS Board On Display 11/18 & 11/19

• Our next PADS service day is Tuesday, December 5th. The PADS Board with the “wish-list” of items needed to prepare the meals for 250 guests at Hesed House, is currently on display at the Atrium. Please help us feed the hungry.

Mondays with Monica & Augustine Prayer Group Continues 11/20

• We are blessed to have St. Monica and St. Augustine accompany us as we consider our own family situations with our own loved ones who have fallen away from the Church; see you for prayer at OLM on Mondays at 7:30pm.
•      Anticipation—the upcoming holiday season is filled with it. And with Advent around the corner, we look forward to family gatherings, beautiful celebrations at church, and all the blessings that come during this season. As we wait, our hope in the Lord can increase, and our faith can grow stronger.
       But sometimes, the holiday season can be difficult. Instead of anticipating the good things God has in store for us, we may anticipate family tension or spending Christmas somewhat isolated from our loved ones; the hardest part of loving someone estranged from the Faith is the sense of isolation. No matter how we feel, we can experience God’s goodness and love during Advent. Even our struggles can be an opportunity for God to work in our lives. Jesus wants to calm our fears and fill us with hope—a sure and certain trust in His promises, especially for our loved ones. He wants us to hear His comforting voice. At Mondays with Monica and Augustine (MWMA), come and hear Jesus’ comforting voice, perhaps through the reflection, or while praying for our loved ones by name. Praying together with others in a similar situation removes the sense of isolation.
    So far at MWMA, we’ve reflected on the reality of having adult children who have walked away from the Faith, but what about when the conflict remains in front of you? What about the teens who won’t go to Mass, or the college student who reject the Church’s teachings on sexuality, or the adults who lead lives contrary to the Faith and still live at home? “Love your children where they are” sounds lovely until you have to put it into practice and come up against realities you find objectionable.
     Remember that Jesus meets the woman at the well and calls to Zacchaus in his tree. He calls to Matthew at his customs post and to James and John as they work with their father on the fishing nets. He comes to each of us where we are. Sometimes, after we have been evangelized, we can forget what it feels like to be one who has yet to hear in the heart God’s invitation. Our job is to make sure we aren’t drowning out God’s invitation. Jesus asked people what they wanted of Him; “What do you want Me to do for you?” The blind man said, “I want to see” (Mark 10:51). Jesus seeks out each of us individually through our lives, through our sufferings, our joys, and our relationships. Make sure you’re letting Him speak through you with the invitation to something more, something whole, something holy. (The rest of this reflection will be at the MWMA at 7pm inside the Church on Mondays).

EDGE Night for Middle School Youth 11/20

• Middle school youth gather on Monday 11/20from 6:30pm to 8pm for EDGE Nights, an activity-filled evening covering topics about the Catholic faith and challenging the middle school teens to grow in a relationship with Christ. Help your middle schooler find their identity in Christ; sign them up for EDGE Nights!
• Check out our EDGE webpage for details, session dates, and registration.

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 11/21

• For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers… Come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 11/21st following the 6:30pm Mass.
• St. Peregrine is the patron saint of the sick, especially those suffering from cancer, serious illness, or chronic illness. The prayer service is for the intention of those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers to fortify them in their current situation.

Consuming Fire Young Adult Group Continues 11/21

• Calling all young adults, join our Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group (CFYA) on Tuesday at 7pm for community and faith building. Reach out to cfyagg@gmail.com to get plugged in with the group or sign up at the link HERE
• Come to Consuming Fire this week for a talk on St. Francis Xavier!

Vine & Branches Continues 11/22

• Vine & Branches is a Grow Group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals who have experienced the trauma of a broken marital relationship.
• The program “Surviving Divorce” by Ascension Press was created to bring hope and healing to those who have experienced the pain of a broken marriage. It includes the personal testimonies of Catholic men and women as they witness the healing power of Jesus in their lives.
• For more information, please reach out to one of our group leaders. They look forward to hearing from you: Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
  Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com, Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com

Thanksgiving Mass 11/23

• Start Thanksgiving day by joining us in giving thanks to the Lord our God and rejoicing in the gift of His love. We pray to see you at the Thanksgiving Mass at 9am. Bring visiting family and friends. Invite the college student in your family who is home for Thanksgiving break; it would be great to see them at the Mass as well!
• Please note the parish office will close at 1pm on Wednesday, November 22nd, for the Thanksgiving holiday and will remain closed through Friday, November 24th. Normal operations will resume on Monday.

Diocese of Joliet Novena of Grace 11/25 through 12/3

• In commemorating 75 years of Catechesis, Evangelization and Service, Bishop Hicks is inviting everyone to be in prayer from 11/25th through 12/3rd in a 9 day novena of prayer to St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of the Diocese of Joliet. Proceed here for the novena.
• Check out the link HERE to find out more about the year-long 75th Anniversary plans.

Prayer Ministry 11/25 & 11/26

• Receive Prayer Ministry after all the Mass times the weekend of 11/25 and 11/26! Prayer ministry is an opportunity for those in need of physical, emotional, or spiritual healing or with a specific intention. Come as an individual, as a couple, or family. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement. Trained prayer ministers will be available in the back of Church.

Donut Sunday 11/26

• Stop by the PLC after the 8am and 10am Masses on November 26th for yummy Donuts, good Coffee & wonderful Fellowship. 

Drop off Angel Giving Program Stockings by 11/26

• This year’s program benefits those individuals assisted by SVDP, Hesed House, Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry and Waterleaf Women’s Center.  Here are the following ways you can assist families in need over the holidays.
• Fill your stocking with stuffers & return it to the bin by the Welcome Desk or to the Main Office by Sunday 11/26!  
• Monetary donations can be made under the Angel Giving Fund via our online giving portal or via check made payable to Our Lady of Mercy with “Angel Giving” in the memo for tax purposes. Accepted thru 12/31.
• Please connect with Lydia at lydias@olmercy.com for any questions.

Weekly Praying for Priests

• A prayer group has been praying for priests in front of the Blessed Sacrament weekly for over a year now, as well as on First Fridays. Even if you can’t join the group inside the church, you can pray wherever you are at during the times below.
• Wednesdays at 10:30am – Rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy with meditations for priests,   Thursdays at 12:30pm –  Rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy with meditations for priests,First Friday of the month following 12pm Mass – Stations of the Cross with meditations for priests in the narthex.

Restore Weekly Restore Confidential Meetings

• Restore is a ministry that accompanies men so as to win the battle against the struggles of living a lust-free life.
• The ministry meets at a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas about strengthening their resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity.  All men are welcome, whether you have been free of the addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day. Though the meetings are weekly, at the last weekly meeting of the month, men are guided by a licensed Catholic therapist. If you are ready to start breaking free from the struggles of living chastely and want to Restore your life email Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet or call 331-684-7415.

Weekly Adoration

• COME AND ADORE OUR LORD! Eucharistic Adoration is held three times a week at OLM!
• So come and encounter Jesus anytime this week at Adoration on Mondays and Thursdays 8:30am to 6:30pm and Wednesdays 8am to 12pm.
  And if you’d like to sign up for a regular time to be with Jesus, click here.

Sign up for Weekly Adoration as we Prepare for our New Chapel to Open!

• COME AND ADORE OUR LORD! Eucharistic Adoration is held three times a week at OLM! In the book of Exodus, we read about Moses meeting God “face to face, as one man speaks to another” in the ‘Tent of Meeting.’ Just like Moses did 3,000 years ago, you and I have that very same opportunity for a face-to-face encounter with God to share what’s in our hearts, our joys, our worries, what’s troubling us right now, vetting it out with Jesus in the Eucharist. It is good to be with the Lord! It’s what we were created for. And Jesus longs to reveal that goodness to us even more than we long to know Him. That’s why He took on flesh and became a man. That’s why He poured out His Holy Spirit. And that’s why He is truly and fully present in the Eucharist.
• So come and encounter Jesus anytime this week at Eucharistic Adoration on Mondays and Thursdays 8:30am to 6:30pm and Wednesdays 8am to 12pm.
  And if you’d like to sign up for a regular time to be with Jesus, click here.

Sign up for Weekly Adoration as we Prepare for our New Chapel to Open!

We’re almost there, we have the following time slots that do not have anyone signed up to spend time with Jesus; we’re praying you would be the one to sign up for any of the following time spots
Tuesday 8:30am, 4pm
Wednesday 5pm
Thursday 8:30am
Friday 10am, 4pm
Our hope is that two individuals sign up for each of the hourly timeslots Monday through Friday from 8:30am through 5pm; please help us achieve this goal.  It truly is the best time that you could gift yourself. Click here to sign up.

LOOKING AHEAD

Register for Ladies Advent Tea by 11/27

• Hey there, fabulous ladies! Get ready to sparkle and shine at our 14th Annual Ladies Advent Tea on Sunday, December 3rd, from 2pm to 4:30pm in the warm and cozy Parish Life Center (PLC).  
• This year, we’re diving into the blessing of the season with the theme “The Gifts of Advent.” Join us for an afternoon of pure vibes – we’re talking prayer, reflection, and the kind of fellowship that warms your soul like your favorite cup of hot tea.
• Bring your A-game with a China teacup and saucer. But no worries if you’re more of a mug person; we’ve got plenty to go around for your teacup of choice.
  And because we believe in the power of sugar, bring a dozen of your favorite sweets to share!
• Secure your spot by registering HERE or click on the graphic below.

Giving Tuesday on 11/28

• Giving Tuesday is a day when people worldwide financially support their favorite nonprofit causes. It’s celebrated annually on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving which is on 11/28th this year. As you prepare to open your hearts to support worthy causes on Giving Tuesday, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Our Lady of Mercy.
  
  As of 11/5, we are below budget by approximately $46,000.
  
  We wouldn’t be able to accomplish everything we do without your continued support. Your gift of any amount will help us meet our budget so as to enable us to live out our vision of offering every person a life-changing encounter with Jesus, grow disciples, and send them on mission.
  
  If you’ve been impacted by Our Lady of Mercy, please consider supporting us on Giving Tuesday, please select “Sunday Contributions” on the online OSV give link below.
  
  We pray you can help us by joining this effort; all donors will receive an OLM Car magnet. Please be sure to write a note on the memo “Giving Tuesday” so we can send one to you or stop by the parish office to pick up your car magnet.  We thank you for your prayerful generosity and support this Giving Tuesday!

I support OLM on Giving Tuesday

The Chosen Season 3 Catholic Bible Study Continues on 11/28

• 𝗡𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆? 𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲? — 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗻 “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗻-𝗦𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝟯” 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗕𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂!
  Through both watching the series episode and breaking open the Scripture readings related to each episode, this Catholic Bible Study experience will enable you to imagine ourselves in the story.  Sign up soon, and don’t forget to bring a friend.
• When: Tuesdays @ 7pmContact: Joe Wiacek and Joe Glasgow OLMBiblestudies@gmail.com Registration: Please register here 
• All you need to bring is your Bible; a study guide will be provided where you can jot down your answers or notes from the Bible Study.

Magnify Adoration Night 11/29

• Our monthly MAGNIFY is on Wednesday 11/29 from 7pm to 8:30pm when we host a night of adoration in the church with praise and worship by Josh Goodman. After a scriptural reflection, there will be opportunities for confession and prayer ministry.
• We pray that you come and spend time in prayer with Jesus, encountering Him in a special way. He is personally inviting you to come and share your heart with Him. Join us anytime from 7pm to 8:30pm in the Church. Don’t forget to bring your children, neighbors, and friends.

Final SoulCore Class for the year – Friendsgiving Theme on 11/29

• Don’t miss the last class of the Fall session of SoulCore on 11/29 from 6-8pm- a Friendsgiving Theme!
• Join SoulCore Leaders Jen Bickel, and Lisa Hir. Invite your friends and join us to pray, move our bodies, and give thanks for the “apostolate of friendship.” We look forward to praying with you and offering a friendship rosary to celebrate our end-of-the-year Soulcore ministry and fellowship! (Don’t worry, we will resume with a Winter Session set of classes.)
• Leaders will provide some light snacks and beveragesplease. Bring exercise mat and water. Wear Comfortable clothing.
  Bring a candle for a gift exchange so we can all receive a gift of light and seasonal fragrance for the Advent Season.
• No cost to attend. Please RSVP at this here.

Salt and Light Grow Group Continues 11/29 & 11/30

• Join Salt and Light Grow Group for 𝗙𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗚𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘆’𝘀 “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗼𝗹𝗱” for 10 fast-paced and lively sessions through a video talk followed by group discussion. From the epic story of Poland’s national suffering to the events of Fatima, the revelations of St. Faustina, the heroic efforts of St. Maximilian Kolbe, and the life of St. John Paul II, the panorama of Divine mercy is fully revealed as a transformative reality. A free study guide will be given to all participants.
• Join us either Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm or Thursday afternoons at 1pm; For more details and registration, proceed here, and please don’t forget to bring a friend.

A Mother’s Heart Grow Group Book Study on “Interior Freedom” Begins 11/30

• Join A Mother’s Heart Grow Group, as together we strive to grow in virtue and submit ourselves to the will of God, because He is the only source who can grant true freedom.
• Our book study will meet twice a month on Thursday evenings from 7-9PM in a local parishioner’s home in Oswego. Please email Lydia at lydiadschmitt@gmail.com for location and details. Our first book gathering will be held on November 30! You can also sign up HERE

Dr. John Bergsma speaks at St. Patrick’s in Yorkville 11/30

• Dr. Bergsma, a Theology Professor at Franciscan University and former Protestant pastor, will demystify the Bible in one evening from his popular book, “Bible Basics for Catholics.”
• A meet-and-greet will begin at 6:00 PM, and his talk will start at 6:30 PM in the church. After the presentation, there will be time for a Q&A. All are welcome to attend.
• This event is FREE & great for inviting your friends and family who want to learn more about the Bible. Whether you are new to the faith or have been Catholic your whole life, you will learn something new! 

Registration for Simbang Gabi Mass & Celebration starts 12/1

• Please save the date for the annual Simbang Gabi Filipino tradition of celebrating devotional Mass on Saturday 12/16th at 6pm.
• Registration will start on 12/1st.
• The Simbang Gabi Committee is also looking for volunteers – singers, dancers, performers, DJ, hosts, etc. Please contact Edna Santig (331) 588-5556 if interested. 
• What is Simbang Gabi you may wonder? Find out here.

First Friday and Saturday Devotions 12/1 & 12/2

• 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝘂𝘀 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀! This Friday and Saturday, all are invited to join the First Friday of Reparation and the Communal First Saturday!  
• Extra Friday Confession immediately following the 8am Mass
• Respect Life 1st Friday Devotion: The Respect Life Ministry invites you to stand and silently pray in front of Waterleaf Women’s Center on December 1. Prayer warriors are needed for one hour shifts 7 am – 4 pm to change hearts and save lives. For more information, please call Lisa at (630) 236-3310 
• ADDITIONAL FRIDAY MASS AT 12PM
• First Saturday Devotion after the 8:30AM Mass
• Saturday Confessions immediately following the 8:30am Mass and also at 1:30pm to 2:30pm

Let Heaven and Nature Sing 12/2

• Need an uplifting Advent Family Adventure? Join us at OLM on Saturday, Dec. 2nd from 1-3pm for Advent crafts, games, a service project, food, & fellowship! Inspired by classic Christmas carols!
• Please RSVP by email to maryjot@olmercy.com with family name & count TODAY or by Nov. 29!

Charismatic Healing Mass 12/2

• On Saturday, 12/2 at 6pm is the Charismatic Healing Mass. A healing Mass is a normal Mass, but it has a special focus on God’s healing power; this will be reflected in the songs, prayers, and scripture readings. If you’re in need of God’s healing grace, come to the Charismatic Healing Mass. 

PADS/Hesed House Board Item Drop-Off Weekend 12/2 & 12/3

• Drop off all items before Masses this weekend. Thank you for your generosity.
• Monetary donations can also be made via the OLM Online Giving Portal (please specify that the donation is for Hesed House), or make checks payable to Our Lady of Mercy Church, and write on the memo “Hesed House-PADS” 

Saint Nicholas Visits After Mass 12/3

• Calling all children, stay after the 10am Mass on Sunday, December 3rd for a quick visit with St. Nicholas and to find out his story.
  -Following the example of blessed St. Nicholas, may we strive to profess what he believed and to practice what he taught-

Mass for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 12/7 & 12/8

• As we celebrate the Immaculate Conception, patroness of the United States, we pray you’ll join us for Mass: Thursday Vigil Mass on Dec.7th at 7pm OR Friday, December 8th at 8am or 7pm.

Retirement Fund for Religious 12/9 & 12/10

• Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     Our diocese will soon take up the national collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious. Your support for this collection December 9/10 provides financial assistance for retirement needs for 297 U.S. religious communities.      Catholic sisters, brothers and religious order priests—collectively known as women and men religious—have selflessly served for decades without significant financial compensation. However, due to escalating health-care costs, numerous U.S. religious communities face a substantial gap between their elderly members’ needs and the financial resources available for their care. Many religious orders currently experience insufficient retirement savings.     The 2022 appeal demonstrated Catholics’ tremendous generosity by raising $27.6 million. Diocese of Joliet parishioners contributed $286,788.25 to the collection.      The senior religious in our diocese never retire from their vows, and they play a crucial role in conveying the faith from one generation to the next. In their younger years, they laid the foundation for Catholic schools, hospitals, and works of mercy. Today, many serve in volunteer ministry as ongoing witnesses to the Gospel. Others are frail and need assistance, yet all remain wholly committed to their vocations by embracing the opportunity to spend more time praying for our Church and world.      Please support the retirement needs of our senior religious. And please join me in praying for God’s continued blessing on our nation’s elderly sisters, brothers, and religious order priests.     As I remain –
          Sincerely yours in Christ,
          Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks
          Bishop of Joliet

Advent Reflection for Liturgical Ministers 12/9

• All liturgical ministers are invited to an Advent Reflection on Saturday, December 9th from 11am-Noon in the Church. Come join us for time away from the busyness of life to reflect on the season of Advent and the mystery of the Incarnation.  

Donut Sunday 12/10

• Stop by the PLC after the 8am and 10am Masses on 12/10 for yummy donuts, good coffee & wonderful fellowship. 

Save the Date for the Justice & Peace Ministry’s Fair Trade Sale 12/10

• Mark your calendar and save the date for our annual Fair Trade Sale on Sunday December 10, 2023. Ten Thousand Villages will bring fair trade items to OLM. This is not a fundraiser but an opportunity to support artisans and farmers through fair trade purchases.
• Fair trade is a commitment to a fairer world— ensuring that people who make and grow products have a place to sell them, that they’re fairly paid, and that their working conditions and communities are healthy. Visit SERRV.ORG and learn more.

EDGE Alden Nursing Home Service Trip 12/11

• The EDGE is a Catholic middle school youth ministry experience created for early adolescents in grades 6, 7, & 8. The EDGE is designed to meet the educational, spiritual, emotional, and social needs of young adolescents. Kids are always welcomed and encouraged to invite their friends to the EDGE.
• For information on this service opportunity please contact Adolfo & Joana Lopez at adolfol@olmercy.com or joanal@olmercy.com 

Living With Grief – Finding the Meaning of Christmas While Grieving 12/11 & 12/12

• Experiencing the loss of a loved one is a difficult journey. Our Lady of Mercy is offering a supportive place for participants ages 18 and older living with grief to be together in a faith community to find healing and hope.
• Grief topics will vary each month. Come to the one that would be of support to you. 
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.
• Finding the Meaning of Christmas While Grieving, come to one of the sessions either on Monday 12/11th from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 208 or Tuesday 12/12th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe 12/12

• Mass will be at 6:30pm in English, with music in Spanish. Roses for the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be available in the narthex. A reception will follow in the PLC.

Advent Confession Times 12/18-12/23

• The hope for the Advent Season is to offer Confessions as much as the priests can which is why…There will be SIX straight days of Confessions from 1/18-12/23!
  Monday through Friday from 7pm to 8:30pm
  Saturday 9am to 10am and 1:30pm to 2:30pm
  Using the examination of conscience on the following link, ask the Holy Spirit to help you search your heart. Where do you sense God is calling you to repent? Remember, Jesus will never condemn you; He is always ready to forgive you: https://bit.ly/ConfessionsatOLMPage 

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 12/19

• For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers… Come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 12/19 following the 6:30pm Mass.
• St. Peregrine is the patron saint of the sick, especially those suffering from cancer, serious illness, or chronic illness. The prayer service is for the intention of those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers to fortify them in their current situation.

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 12/20

• The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 12/20 from 4:30pm to 6pm.  Don’t forget to share the Our Lady of Mercy social media posting on your network; you never know who among your network is in need of food.
• The Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet Mobile Food Pantry delivers healthy food (meat, produce, and non-perishable items) to people in need. No identification or information will be required or collected. This event is open to anyone in need of food! Mobile Food Pantries use a “drive-thru” method to distribute. Please clear space in your trunk or backseat so volunteers can load boxes of food directly into your vehicle. Mobile Food Pantries take place snow, rain, or shine!

Blessing of Baby Jesus 12/23

• On Saturday, Dec.23rd at 12:30pm, families are invited to bring Baby Jesus from their family creche to the Church for a special blessing!

Men Seeking Holiness Day Retreat 12/28

• Come to a high-impact, low-pressure experience “Men Seeking Holiness Day Retreat” on Thursday 12/28th from 9am to 5pm at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish located at 36 N. Ellsworth, Naperville. The cost is $10 which includes lunch. Email vocations@dioceseofjoliet.org for any questions.
• Experience a special day of prayer, discussions, discernment, the life of holiness, Mass, adoration, and Confession. Please share this invitation with the men in your life.

Have a Minister of Care Bring Holy Communion to Your Loved One that is Homebound

• Do you have a loved one that is homebound?
  Ministers of Care are trained in the ministry and commissioned by the parish to visit those unable to come to Church to receive Holy Communion. Ministers visit the homebound, those in hospitals, and other care facilities to pray with them, bring the Eucharist and serve as a caring, listening presence. The Ministers of Care Ministry is a visible sign of the presence of the Church in our lives and continues the healing ministry of Jesus Christ.
• If you know someone in the parish who is unable to come to church and wishes to receive Holy Communion in the home, please contact the parish office at 630-851-3444 and arrangements will be made.  Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.” —John 6:35
• Caring for a Loved One with Mary” by Theresa Kiser is in the book kiosk. Completely occupied by the constant care necessary for her son’s medically complex situation, Theresa Kiser struggled to reconcile with the physical, emotional, social, and mental tolls it took on her family. But when she stumbled upon the devotion of the Seven Sorrows of Mary, she was surprised — and deeply relieved — to discover that Our Lady walked this caregiving road before her. The Seven Sorrows devotion nourished her soul with comfort, companionship, and grace at a time when she needed it most.

Is God Calling You to the Priesthood?

• Marriage is good and priesthood is good so how do you choose between two goods?  Connect with Fr Michael at frmichael@olmercy.com and speak with him.

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column 

• Bishop Hicks’ monthly column for November is titled “Launching Our 7th Jubilee” Read his insightful column HERE.
  • 75th Jubilee of the Diocese of Joliet. Our diocese was founded on December 11, 1948. For an entire year, we will highlight the great accomplishments of our past and how we were founded in faith, while being called to witness now and in the future, and continue to be sent forth to serve. Hear from Bishop Hicks as he describes the events and activities leading up to the year-long celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Diocese of Joliet, watch the video HERE.
    • Novena of Grace with St. Francis Xavier 11/25 through 12/3
    • Monthly Podcast on first Mondays
      • The first episode of the 75th Anniversary podcast series will launch on 11/6th. Episodes will be released on the first Monday of each month. Watch on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast platform!
    • Blessing of St. Francis Xavier Statue on 12/3rd at 1pm.
      • On the Feast of St. Francis Xavier and the final day of the Novena of Grace, a statue of the saint will be blessed at the Blanchette Catholic Center, 16555 Weber Rd., Crest Hill. The statue will serve as a constant reminder of the patron saint of our diocese. Bishop Hicks will bless the statue at 1pm in an open ceremony so that all may witness this moving event.

Scam Emails and Text Messages

• From time to time, there are phishing (SCAM) emails going out to members of the parish and staff claiming to be Father Michael as well as text messages.
  Please note that Father Michael and Father Frank DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards. If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Michael or Father James, please discard it (any email that does not have “olmercy.com” is a fake email) and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.  No one on the staff will personally ask for money in whatever form (gift cards etc). If someone sends you a private message asking for a donation of sorts, it’s undoubtedly a fake account. Please keep praying for us, and God bless you!

Did You Know We Have a Parish School?

• All Saints Catholic Academy (ASCA) located at 1155 Aurora Ave, Naperville is our parish school!
• Are you a parent with preschool, elementary, and middle school-aged children struggling with the antithetical Christian values the government schools are indoctrinating the children who attend government schools?  You’re not alone.
• Join a growing number of OLM parents who have made the move by sending their child(ren) to public school to All Saints Catholic Academy.
• Connect with Patty Bajek at (630) 961-6125, or pbajek@ascacademy.org to express your interest and schedule a personalized tour.  Or peruse their website to explore your interest.  

St. Vincent de Paul Society Volunteers

• Thank you for your support of our clothing drive. Your clothing donation, as well as your financial donations throughout the year, allows us to help our parishioners and neighbors in need. In 2022, we provided assistance to 72 households, helping 185 men, women and children to remain in their homes or apartments in time of financial need.
• The ministry is always looking for volunteers to join our St. Vincent de Paul Society in assisting our neighbors in need. If you would like to volunteer or learn more, send an email to olmsvdp@gmail.com with your name and contact information.

Bulletin

• Check out the weekly Bulletin located here. 

For the Hispanic Community

• Please proceed here for the OLM Hispanic Ministry’s upcoming events and resources.
  Continúe aquí para conocer los próximos eventos y recursos del Ministerio Hispano de OLM.
• There will be Stations of the Cross in Spanish every 2nd Wednesday of the month after the 12pm Mass.
  A partir de la próxima semana, habrá Estaciones de la Cruz en español cada segundo miércoles del mes después de la misa de las 12 pm.

A Note from the Intercessory Prayer Ministry

• How can we pray for you today?
  There are times when life is overwhelming when all we have is questions. In those moments, hope can feel far away. The great thing about prayer is that it shifts our perspective toward the One who stands ready to listen. No matter what you’re facing, we’d love to pray with you. Submit your prayer requests at this link
• Prayer Ministry takes place monthly at MAGNIFY and on the last weekend of the month Mass times.  Prayer ministry is an opportunity for those in need of physical, emotional, or spiritual healing or with a specific intention. Come as an individual, as a couple, or as. a family and receive prayer for yourself or request prayers for someone in need. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement. Trained prayer ministers are available.

Have you downloaded our myParish App yet?

• If you haven’t done so, we encourage you to download the Our Lady of Mercy app, available to download for iPhone and Android smartphones.  Or text APP to 88202 to download.
  • Stay connected with our parish throughout the week with instant notifications, an easy-to-access event calendar, and the ability to quickly reply to or share messages via Facebook or Twitter. Also enjoy a bunch of additional features like prayers, daily readings, helpful reminders to silence your phone before Mass or Confession, and much more.

Donate Online Through OSV Giving

• Whether you are a registered parishioner with us or visiting, we are set up to receive donations online through OSV Our Sunday Visitor.
• OSV is an online website that makes contributions faster, easier, and accessible at anytime for donors. Click here to for online giving.
• You can also access this link through our myParish App “Giving” button. Don’t have the myParish App yet? Text APP to 88202 to download!  Receive this update, instant news, and get access to the parish calendar, daily readings, and Confession guide.