March 28, 2024 | Parish Update – Our Lady of Mercy

March 28, 2024 | Parish Update

Triduum; Holy Thursday-Good Friday-Easter Sunday. 7 Great Dates starts 4/5. The question is, this Easter.

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

News from Pastor in Training (P.I.T.)

If you go to the Cathedral Basilica in St. Louis, you will actually be visiting the second largest mosaic in the world; thousands of small pieces of glass depicting the life of Christ adorn the church. When you walk down the center aisle and look to your right, you will see the following passage on the wall: “Christ is not risen, your faith is in vain.” When I first encountered it, I was confused as the statement was contrary to the faith. Why was this in the Catholic Cathedral Basilica? It wasn’t until I moved closer toward that side of the church that a very important word was revealed, which had been previously blocked by my field of vision: “If”. This word completes St. Paul’s quote from his first letter to the Corinthians, “If Christ is not risen, your faith is in vain.”

Every time I walk into that Basilica, I have my own little April Fool’s day! Christ is not risen- April fools, just kidding, He has risen! However, what is St. Paul getting at with his rhetorical statement? He is declaring a necessary need for action. Because Jesus rose from the dead it changes everything. Our faith was never meant to be something idle, or something stagnant. It was never meant to be something that we just acknowledge for one hour a week on Sunday, or even once a year! It is meant to move our very being to its core!

When you encounter love, do you just sit there? Or do you respond to it with your whole being? When someone tells you that they love you, what happens if you say nothing? It becomes very awkward. Why? … Because encountering truth and love requires a response!

What do we celebrate this Easter? God’s unconditional love for us: that even in the midst of our sin and death, God conquers both for our sake! The question is: are we going to sit idle while God professes His love for us, or are we going to respond with our very being, saying a great yes, a great AMEN?

Christ is Risen! Alleluia! Alleluia!

He has risen indeed! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Fr. Michael

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

Holy Thursday Schedule 3/28
On Holy Thursday, we enter into the mystery of the Triduum, three days liturgically celebrated as one; these are the days that changed the world.
Enter the mystery with us in the Mass of the Lord’s Supper @ 7pm followed immediately with Adoration of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament until midnight.
For on this night, our Lord Jesus gave us three gifts by which He would remain with us always; Jesus gave us the gift of the priesthood of the new covenant, the gift of the Eucharist and the gift of His example of Love.

Notice the ‘sound of silence’; 𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝘄𝗲 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝘆 𝗗𝗮𝘆𝘀. At the conclusion of the Mass this evening, the Blessed Sacrament will be processed to the repository. We depart from Mass 𝘪𝘯 𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, remembering the impending arrest and Passion of our Lord. On Good Friday, we gather and depart 𝘪𝘯 𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 in commemoration of the Lord’s Passion. Finally, we gather 𝘪𝘯 𝘴𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 for the Easter Vigil in joyful expectation of the Resurrection.
As we celebrate these Holy Days dwelling in the silence, let us keep watch with Peter, James, and John, but this time, wide awake and mindful of Jesus’ agony in the garden, and Jesus steeling Himself not simply to die but to enter into battle alone against the powers of Sin, Death, satan, and Hell.

8am Morning Prayer
7pm Mass of the Lord’s Supper
8:30pm Eucharistic Adoration from 8:30pm until Midnight

Good Friday Schedule 3/29

The starkness of Good Friday is profound because Jesus continues to obediently go to work against the powers of Sin, Death, satan, and hell, changing the course of the world and our destiny forever.

8am Morning Prayer
12pm Spanish Stations of the Cross
3pm Living Stations by Teens
7pm Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion

Good Friday Collection for the Holy Land 3/29

The Pontifical Good Friday Collection helps Christians in the Holy Land, where they are now less than 2% of the population. Your support is essential to help the Church minister in parishes, provide Catholic schools, and offer religious education.
The Pontifical Good Friday Collection also helps to preserve the sacred shrines of Christianity, including in Jerusalem, Nazareth, and Bethlehem, to name only a few. The wars, unrest and instability have been especially hard on Christians. In these times of crisis, the Pontifical Good Friday Collection provides humanitarian aid to refugees. When you contribute to the Pontifical Good Friday Collection, you become an instrument of peace and join with Catholics around the world in solidarity with the Church in the Holy Land.
Hear from Fr. Francesco Patton, OFM, Custos of the Holy Land at this link asking for your prayers on the situation they are facing and appealing to your generosity to help alleviate the dire need the community they serve are facing.
For more information about Christians in the Holy Land, visit www.custodia.org and www.myfranciscan.org

Divine Mercy Novena starts on Good Friday 3/29

Jesus asked that the Feast of Divine Mercy, known today as Divine Mercy Sunday which is on 4/7, be preceded by a Novena to The Divine Mercy. A Novena is nine days of prayer in preparation for a feast. In the case of the Novena to The Divine Mercy, we pray the Chaplet of The Divine Mercy each day for a specific intention. Our Lord told St. Faustina, “I desire that during these nine days you bring souls to the fountain of My mercy, that they may draw … strength and refreshment and whatever grace they need in the hardships of life, and especially at the hour of death” (Diary, 1209).
Please join us as we follow our Lord’s wish to bring to Him various intentions during our nine days of prayer. Proceed here to pray the Divine Mercy Novena

Holy Saturday Schedule 3/30

In the stillness of Holy Saturday morning, we are in the midst of the mystery of the Triduum; waiting at the Lord’s tomb in prayer as He makes the descent into Hell; holding our breathes, anticipating His Resurrection.
As we take time today to be silent, here are powerful homilies for further reflection in the great silence of today: A Holy Saturday Ancient Homily
Homily on the Passion or Homily on the Pascha/Passover

8am Morning Prayer
12pm Basket Blessing
No Reconciliation
No 4pm Mass

Easter Vigil Mass 3/30

The Easter Vigil Mass at 8pm with adult baptism, is the most beautiful liturgy in the Roman Catholic Church. Join us at the crowning moment of the Easter Triduum, the sublimely beautiful Easter Vigil Mass.
From our music director, Frank Sauter; of special note, this year, the recessional (the song at the end of the Mass) is going to be the “Finale to the Resurrection Symphony” by German composer Gustav Mahler. To help you get familiar with the song and to see the translation, please see our Easter page.
“If You’ve Never Been To Easter Vigil Mass, Here’s Why You Need To Go“

Easter Sunday Schedule 3/31

Experience the joy of Easter with us at any of our Easter Sunday Masses at 8am,10am and 12pm. Bring your friends and family to share in the warmth of our welcoming church and the beautiful liturgy. Check out the Easter page for FAQs, Easter invitations you can text to your family, friends, and neighbors.

Mass in the Church 8am, 10am, 12pm
Mass in the PLC 10am, 12pm
No 5:30pm Mass

Parish Office is closed on Easter Monday 4/1

Happy Easter! The Parish Office will be closed on Easter Monday, 4/1, and will reopen the next day.

Fit Shepherds on Wednesday and Saturday mornings

To all men, in this time of renewed dedication to fitness, consider joining Fit Shepherds—a unique fusion of physical and spiritual growth. Join us for challenging workouts Saturdays at 7am and Wednesdays at 5:30am in the parking lot, as we strive to become better in every aspect of life, inspired by the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.
Dads are encouraged to bring their sons 5th grade and older.
Get a glimpse of a Saturday morning work out and see the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hiVMnLrRzf0
For more information check out their website at this link or connect with Alex Baier who is looking forward to hearing from you; email him at abaier823@gmail.com

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.

Come Visit Jesus in the New Adoration Chapel

Create more time for silence and prayer in your schedule by spending time with Jesus at the new Eucharistic Adoration Chapel anytime right after the 8am Mass until 10pm. We are also in need of committed adorers, simply click on the ‘Sign Up’ button on the hours we need a second adorer for. Proceed here for more details.

7 Great Dates on Fridays starting 4/5

𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽; 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗼𝗿 ‘𝟳 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀’ 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗯𝘆 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗮 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗮𝘁 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗰𝘆.
Whether married for six months or 40 years, whether in a good place or struggling, the date nights help couples navigate the modern challenges of marriage. It is based on Christian principles, but designed to help couples of all faiths strengthen their relationship.
The 7 Great Dates aka the Marriage Course is a series of 7 sessions encompassed with food, talk, and private discussion between the couple only. Each session features leading experts, teaching content, and stories from around the globe.
Topics for Each Date Night are Strengthening Connection, The Art of Communication, Resolving Conflicts, The Power of Forgiveness, The Impact of Family, Good Sex, and Love in Action.

Starts Friday April 5th through May 17 from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Further details, registration, and the trailer are found at this link
Secure your spot now for an unforgettable experience! Act swiftly, as our limited spots are filling up rapidly. Join us and invest in your relationship – register today!

Divine Mercy Sunday 4/7

In celebration of the Feast Day of Divine Mercy on Sunday 4/7, we will hold a beautiful celebratory service in the Church at 2pm. Our service will include prayer of the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy through song, a devotion that Jesus revealed in His numerous apparitions and revelations to Saint Faustina.

“On that (Feast) Day, the depths of My mercy will be open to all …. The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment.”

Our observance of the Divine Mercy Feast Day will include the following:

Sacrament of Reconciliation, 2pm to 4pm
Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Eucharistic Adoration starting at 2pm
Recitation of the Holy Rosary
Silent Meditation and Prayer
Taking of Personal Intentions for the Divine Mercy Chaplet
Recitation of the Chaplet (at the Hour of Jesus’ Death)
Blessing of participants’ Divine Mercy Images at the altar
Benediction, closing prayers to Jesus and Mary
Pamphlets featuring the Chaplet of the Divine Mercy, as well as other resources, will be available, but participants should be sure to bring their Rosary!
*Also, on Good Friday morning (March 29), immediately after the 8am prayer service in the church, the Divine Mercy Chaplet will be recited. It’s a great way to start your Good Friday observance and Divine Mercy Novena, which should include your recitation of the Chaplet and a Spiritual or Corporal Work of Mercy through April 7

New Teen Youth Group called Refuge Meets on 4/7, 4/14, 4/21, & 4/28

High School students are invited to join the new OLM High School Youth Ministry, called “Refuge” Come by on Sundays in April from 3:16pm-5:16pm, in the Youth Center (Room 211). If you have a teenager in your life, please let them know of this new youth group where they’ll find a safe and fun place to grow and find positive social connections within a solid Catholic community

Mondays with Monica and Augustine 4/8

Join Mondays With Monica And Augustine Prayer Group at 7:30pm in the Church to pray “The Way of the Cross for Loved Ones Who Have Left the Faith.”
Let’s come together to uplift our family and friends who have strayed from the faith. Your presence and prayers can make a profound impact. We kindly request registration to ensure an ample supply of prayer books, yet we warmly welcome walk-ins as well. Proceed here for details and registration.

Walking Through Grief 6-Week Series Begins 4/8

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) to walk through grief together in a faith community to find hope and healing.
Walking Through Grief is a weekly support group for six weeks from 7pm-8:30pm on the following Mondays: April 8, 15, 22 & 29, May 6 & 13 in Room 208 in the Parish Life Center (PLC)
Registration is requested, Please connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380

Bible Study on the Book of Revelation 4/9

On Tuesday evenings at 7pm for 11 sessions, the Bible Study on the book of Revelation is held starting on 4/9th. We will use the Ascension Press “Revelation: The Kingdom Yet to Come” study guide and video. Please purchase the study guide online at the link below. As Easter culminates in the coming of Jesus and His Kingdom, we’ll dive deep into the second coming. Join us for this Book of good news and learn more about our mass through the revelation of John.
Register for the study here. Purchase study guide here

Annulment Information Session 4/10

“𝘞𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘦𝘹𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘶𝘭𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵? 𝘋𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘢 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘴𝘢𝘤𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘵?”
If you or someone you know has suffered the loss of marital relationship and it ended in divorce, we invite you to this annulment information session. We will discuss the myths versus truths of annulment, why it is NOT a “Catholic divorce”, and what the annulment process looks like.
𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟭𝟬𝘁𝗵 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝟳-𝟵𝗽𝗺 𝗶𝗻 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝟮𝟭𝟭. 𝗡𝗼 𝗥𝗦𝗩𝗣 𝗿𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗿𝗲𝗱.
*This session will be led by Annulment Field Advocates, Kim Harris and Mary LoGalbo, trained by the Catholic Diocese of Joliet. All information presented is from the Joliet Diocese and founded on the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

Dr. John Bergsma on Roots of the Eucharist 4/13

On Saturday 4/13 at 7pm at St. Raphael Church, Dr. John Bergsma will be speaking on the Roots of the Eucharist. Dr. Bergsma is a renowned author and speaker of the St. Paul Center in Ohio.

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 4/16

For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers, come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 4/16 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.

Meet & Greet Gathering 4/21

𝟰/𝟮𝟭 @ 𝟭𝟭:𝟭𝟱𝗮𝗺 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀/𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝗹𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 & 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗚𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴!
Whether you’ve recently registered as a member (parishioner) or if you’ve been attending our Sunday or Daily Mass, actively participating in community life, 𝘄𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗶𝘁 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗮 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿/𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 & 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁—𝘄𝗲’𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀! We hope to see you on Sunday 4/21 for a joyful experience of connection, belonging, and the start of a beautiful journey together. We can’t wait to meet you and welcome you officially into the OLM family!

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 4/25

The Mobile Food Pantry is on Thursday 4.25 from 4:30pm to 6pm in the Our Lady of Mercy Parking Lot. 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! Catholic Charities helps people of all faiths and beliefs. 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!

Diocese of Joliet Jeremiah Day 4/27

This is a day for boys in grades 7-10 to grow closer to God and to visit Mundelein Seminary. The activities include a tour of Mundelein Seminary, talks about how God calls us, lunch, recreation time with open gym, and Mass. It is hosted and led by the Diocese of Joliet seminarians at Mundelein Seminary.
The day will take place from 10am to 5pm. Carpooling on a parish level is suggested. Parents, youth ministers, teachers, and parish priests are invited to attend as well.
Registration & permission forms can be found Here: https://www.diojoliet.org/documents/d/vocations/jeremiah-day-registration-04-2024-pdf

Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat 5/3 thru 5/5

If you are suffering from grief after having had an abortion, remember that God always offers forgiveness. Nothing is unforgivable and the Church is the hospital of healing. Just as the father ran to the prodigal son when he came home, so too is God waiting with open arms to receive you back home!
Rachel’s Vineyard weekend retreats offer a beautiful opportunity for healing to any woman or man who has struggled with the emotional or spiritual pain of an abortion.
For more information, and to register, please proceed here: https://www.diojoliet.org/w/rachel-s-vineyard-retreat

An Introduction to Catholic SocialTeaching 5/8 and 5/15

“Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)What. Through prayer, reflection, and discussion we will become familiar with the social teachings of the Catholic Church.When. Part 1 on Wednesday 5/8 and Part 2 on 5/15 from 6:30pm – 8:30 pm Where. Room 114 of the PLCWho. Opened to anyone who is interested. Sponsored by the OLM St. Vincent de Paul Society and the OLM Peace and SocialJustice Ministry.How. Please register by 4/28 by emailing Amy Milller at mt.al.miller@gmail.com

An Evening with Mother Mary 5/11

You and your family are invited to a special celebration in honor of our heavenly mother on Saturday 5/11th after the 4pm Mass, from 5:15pm to 6:45PM in the gym with supper.
Please RSVP at this link and connect with Justin Reyes reyeshj17@gmail.com for any questions.

Saint Vincent De Paul Society – Welcoming New Members

Volunteers are needed to answer phone requests, meet with people requesting financial assistance and help with clothing drives. Members meet as a group monthly on the third Wednesday of the month at 7pm in room 114.
To volunteer please contact the parish office at (630)851-3444 to learn more or email us at olmsvdp@gmail.com
We thank OLM parishioners for financial donations throughout the year and support of our clothing drives. Your donations allow us to help parishioners and neighbors in need. In 2023, we provided assistance to 79 households, helping more than 200 men, women and children!

Have a Minister of Care Bring Holy Communion to Your 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.
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 Jolene at jolenel@olmercy.com and arrangements will be made.

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 February is titled “Peace in the Holy Land” 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 accomplishments of our past & 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 leading up to the year-long celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Diocese of Joliet; find out all the details, and see the year-long schedule HERE.

Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal 2024

If you have already pledged your support to the Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal (CMAA), we sincerely thank you! If we all join together, we can meet our parish’s goal of $140,500. Each and every gift, regardless of size, truly matters and makes a difference. If you still plan on making your gift, please prayerfully reflect on how best you can support the CMAA this year to help those in need throughout our diocese, For the Glory of God. Pledge envelopes are still available in the church, or you can use the envelope you received in the mail from the diocese. Or donate online here.Remember, if we raise more than our goal, the diocese will return 70 percent of the amount over goal to us to reinvest in our own parish. This is an incredible opportunity and blessing. Your generosity is so greatly appreciated. Thank you for sharing your blessings!

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 Frank, 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.

Totally Yours Pilgrimages

Experience pilgrimage with a newness at Totally Yours Pilgrimages hosts trips to Italy, Fatima, Medjugorje and more throughout the year. There pilgrimages offer the comforting presence of dedicated priests and the opportunity for daily Mass. Experience the serenity of sacred sites, knowing that every aspect of your journey, including flights, accommodations, and two daily meals, is expertly arranged for your convenience. If you’re seeking a meaningful escape and a chance to deepen your faith, don’t miss out on this unique opportunity. For more information contact 630-315-0533 or visit there website to begin your journey today.

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.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. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement.

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 reply to or share messages. Enjoy a bunch of additional features like prayers, daily readings, reminders to silence your phone before Mass, & 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.
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.

Grow Groups | We continue to launch Grow Groups, one group at a time.
Connect with zara@olmercy.com for any questions.

A MOTHER’S HEART GROW GROUP

Mission. A Mother’s Heart is a group for Catholic mothers with children ages 0-11 who are seeking to journey with other like-minded women of faith. Following the example of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, we strive to imitate her “little way” of growing in holiness through the lenses of motherhood and family.

Website. Proceed here for details.

Meets. Each month for any of the following: book chats, podcast discussions, “Mom’s Night Out”, community service projects, fellowship, playgroups, prayer.

Connect. Reach out to Lydia Schmitt lydiadschmitt@gmail.com for any questions.

CONSUMING FIRE YOUNG ADULT GROW GROUP

Mission. This group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints.

Website. Proceed here for details.

Meets. Tuesdays @ 7pm and twice a month for social gatherings.

Connect. Reach out to our Core Team at cfyagg@gmail.com for any questions.

SALT AND LIGHT GROW GROUP
Mission. “Encounter/Grow/Witness” is the threefold dimension of the Christian life. Once we encounter Jesus, we are then called to grow daily as His disciples. Grow Groups are one way Our Lady of Mercy is responding to our missionary identity where we are called to help parishioners grow continually in discipleship.

Website. Proceed here for details.

Meets. Wednesdays 7pm to 8:30pm

Connect. For more information, connect with Geri Capulong at gericapulong@gmail.com or Bonnie Ramirez at bnnrmrz@gmail.com.

VINE & BRANCHES GROW GROUP

Mission. Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce.

Website. Proceed here for details

Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings.

Connect. The group leaders are looking forward to hearing from you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them.
Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com

GROW YOUR FAITH

FREE ONLINE RESOURCES In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.

FORMED.ORG Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any internet-connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, and studies… there is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.

Visit http://signup.formed.org/
Enter our parish zip or name
Enter your name and email

or Download the FORMED App through these links: App Store or Google Play

EUCHARIST RESOURCES Check out our “Eucharist Resources” page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives.

INTRODUCING THE ASCENSION APP A Catholic Bible and Catechism AppWe consulted more than 1,000 Catholics on what would make the ideal Bible and Catechism app and collected their direct feedback for over a year. Now it’s here! Download the App for free today on the App Store or the Google Play Store.

Check it out HERE

AMEN – CATHOLIC MEDITATION APP From Augustine Institute comes this NEW AND FREE Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture. There is also Family Content: Enjoy and share family-favorite audio from the series Brother Francis and the Jesus Stories. Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.

HALLOW – A CATHOLIC PRAYER & MEDITATION APP Hallow is a Catholic prayer & meditation app that helps users deepen their relationship with God through contemplative prayer and strengthen one’s mental health in the process. Easy-to-use, audio-guided sessions anywhere from 1 to 60 minutes long. Pray your own way with a personalized prayer plan pulling from 3,000+ unique sessions including the Lectio Divina on the Daily Gospel, Rosary, Examen, Night Prayer, Calm & Humility “Praylists” and much more. Hallow Light is free. Hallow Plus is $5 per month ($60 per year). Sign up for either one here.

WORD ON FIRE

Explore the goodness, truth, and beauty of the faith!

Did you know that you have complete access to Bishop Barron’s Word on Fire ENGAGE video library! Check out this link to watch any of the videos whenever you want without ever having to login.

Not sure where to start? How about checking out the short 5 episode series on The Eucharist This fresh look at the Eucharist brings to light its reality as sacred meal, the sacrifice necessary for communion with God, and the real presence of Christ.

BLESSED IS SHE

Blessed is She is a sisterhood of women who want to grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ through their Catholic faith. They create beautiful and accessible resources, products, and experiences to deepen prayer and foster community, both online and in person.

THE CATHOLIC GENTLEMAN

Founded in 2013, The Catholic Gentleman has become one of the most recognizable online men’s apostolate. Each week hundreds of thousands of men around the world visit our site for the insightful articles and the highest-quality products designed to encourage a life of authentic manhood. Their mission: To inspire men to holiness

HEROIC MEN

Looking for authentically Catholic content for men? Look no further than HeroicMen.com—the all-new, 100% FREE Catholic streaming platform for men.
Learn about your faith from today’s best Catholic speakers—and do it all from the convenience of home. Stream-on-demand from your phone or tablet, too, for quality Catholic content on the go. Get it all—for FREE – at HeroicMen.com

AQUINAS 101 FREE COURSES

Have you wanted to get to know St. Thomas Aquinas and his writings more so as to grow closer to Jesus?

Sign up for any of the short and free courses at Aquinas 101 a project of the

Thomistic Institute seeks to promote understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the eminent 13th-century philosopher, and theologian.

Aquinas is a masterful interpreter of reality. His writings assist us in answering perennial questions on topics like God, man, the natural world, law, and morality, and questions of special relevance to our time like the relationship between modern science and faith or pursuing happiness in the digital era..

PINTS WITH AQUINAS PODCAST

Matt Fradd’s Pints with Aquinas is an online Catholic community of faith and truth… and maybe a pint or two. The podcast has long-form discussions, debates and teachings on the Catholic faith. Checkout the podcast here.

PASTORAL CARE

If you have physical, mental, emotional or spiritual health concerns or questions about end-of-life issues, funeral planning, journeying through grief, caregiving for a loved one or are homebound, please contact the parish office at 630-851-3444 or parishoffice@olmercy.com

RESTORE

Do you find yourself struggling in overcoming your battle with pornography? Restore is a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and share ideas about strengthening our resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of pornography addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day.

If you are ready to start breaking free and want to Restore your life, email us at Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet or call 331-684-7415. Check out the website for FAQs and further details.

Be encouraged; check out this Testimony.

MOMS WALKING WITH MOMS IN NEED

Pregnant and parenting moms in need are in our parishes and our neighborhoods. As Pope Francis reminds us, our parishes need to be “islands of mercy in the midst of a sea of indifference.” Everyone in the parish community should know where to refer a pregnant woman in need. Connect with Lydia Schmitt for further questions at lydias@olmercy.com

FAITH BUDDIES

OLM invites you to learn more about a new program for children with special needs that will be launching in the spring!

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or enrolling your child, please get in touch with Lydia Schmitt at lydias@olmercy.com

faith. Checkout the podcast here.

CONFERENCES

JOLIET YOUTH DAY 6/1

June 1, 2024
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Lewis University
1 University Parkway, Romeoville, IL 60446
Cost: $75/person

Register to attend at this link

This exciting, first-of-its-kind youth event will be held at Lewis University on June 1, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. An unforgettable day conference dedicated to transforming the lives of 8th to 12th graders (current 7th to 12th graders) into passionate and joyful disciples, participants will:

Engage with national keynote speakers
Experience uplifting praise and worship
Deepen their faith through Eucharistic adoration
Find renewal in Reconciliation

2024 WORD ON FIRE CONFERENCE 8/2 – 8/4

Join over 1,000 Catholics at the 2024 Word on Fire Conference, Wonder: Nature and the Human Body!

This conference is for you if you love Word on Fire and want to become more confident in your conversations with friends, coworkers, or family members about some of the most pressing issues the Church faces today.

Get 12% OFF your tickets here. Your ticket includes access to four keynotes (including one by Bishop Barron), three breakout sessions, two dinners, and two Masses.

This year’s conference is in Bishop’s home diocese of Rochester, Minnesota! It will be at the Mayo Civic Center (which is also the event space of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic). This year’s theme is Nature and the Human Body. All humans are bodied creatures. The human body is at the core of today’s most controversial topics, including evolution, artificial intelligence, and gender ideology. It’s more important than ever to be confident when talking with friends and family about these topics.

topics.