May 1, 2024 | Parish Update

May 1, 2024 | Parish Update

A hard question. Green & Fair Trade Fair. An Evening with Mother Mary on 5/11. And May Gatherings.

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

    What does it mean to be a disciple? In today’s first reading, it is Saul’s boldness in Christ that makes the other Christians finally acknowledge him as a disciple. That boldness is a quality we are also called to have.

     In the second reading, we hear of Jesus’ commandment to believe in him and love one another as he commanded us. This commandment has two features, which we might be tempted to separate into two commandments, but it is a singular directive. We are told that our faith should bear fruit in our works, especially in the way we love others. Our faith should find expression in our actions. To believe in Christ is to entrust yourself to Christ. It would be odd to believe in Christ and not obey him. Rather, to not obey would shed light on an area in yourself that Christ needs to be brought into, and that other brothers and sisters should be consulted about. Therefore, the disciples of Christ obey his commandments, and that obedience is proof of their faith.

    The Gospel continues with the imagery of vines, branches, fruit, and pruning. Jesus makes the point through this imagery that it is impossible to grow in holiness without also producing good fruit for others. The Gospel takes a frightening turn when it says that anyone who does not remain in Christ will be thrown into a fire like dead branches! As previously mentioned, faith and works go together as one. Thus, believing in Christ but refusing to do anything he asks us to do for our own good is the same as rejecting Christ. Perhaps we are not rejecting him entirely, but the invitation is to completely surrender ourselves to Christ and trust in him. In the same respect, he has already given himself entirely to us. The disciple is, therefore, dependent on Jesus and his grace. This leads to a deep unity, which bears much fruit.

     As a man who has committed himself to Christ, is seeking to be his disciple, and strives to make others his disciples, this Gospel reminded me of many of the fears I had when surrendering to God and entering priestly formation. One of the fears I had was that in configuring myself to Christ, I would become a different person. Perhaps I would become a priest who prays abundantly, but has little personality left afterwards. While I have changed in many respects, the Lord has pruned certain aspects of my life to make me more fruitful. All those moments of pruning and letting go of things has resulted in deep happiness. I am becoming who God truly created me to be. It is when I begin to reach for that which has been pruned away, that I often lose my peace. My invitation today is to ask Jesus a hard question: “Jesus, are you asking me to do something in order to love you more?”

Jonathan 

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

7 Great Dates on Friday 5/3

  • 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.
  • Although each date night builds upon the previous night, couples are welcome to join at any time. Each date night is also designed to be enjoyed independently from the previous date night. Take this opportunity to invest in the flourishing of your relationship. Secure your place now and prioritize the enrichment of your marriage at the following link
  • Fridays from 6:30pm to 8:30pm through May 17th.
  • Upcoming date nights are 5/3 The Impact of Family, 5/10 Good Sex, and 5/17 Love in Action.

First Friday and First Saturday 5/3 & 5/4

  • 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!  
  • On First Fridays:
    • 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 May 3rd. 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
    • In addition to the daily 8am Mass time, there will be an additional Mass at 12pm
  • On First Saturdays:
    • The First Saturday Devotion after the 8:30am Mass
    • Saturday Confessions are from 9:30am to 10:30am and also
      from 1:30pm to 2:30pm

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

PADS Board Drop-Off 5/4 & 5/5

  • The OLM PADS/Hesed House Board is now on display in the Atrium (Door B Entrance). The board contains a “wish-list” of items used to prepare meals for 250 guests at the Hesed House homeless shelter, on the first Tuesday of each month. Drop-off for all items are before all Masses this weekend, May 4th and 5th. Monetary donations can be made via the OLM Online Giving Portal (please specify donation is for Hesed House), or make checks payable to Our Lady of Mercy Church, and write on the memo “Hesed House-PADS”. Thank you for supporting our mission of mercy.

First Communion Masses 5/4 & 5/5

  • Let us be in prayer for our parish children who will be receiving Jesus for the first time in the Holy Eucharist this weekend, on Saturday May 4th at 11am and Sunday, May 5th at 2:30pm. 

Green Fair and Fair Trade Sale on Donut Sunday 5/5

  • Join us at the PLC after the 8am and 10am Masses on Sunday, May 5th, for a morning of delicious donuts, freshly brewed coffee, and warm fellowship. Plus, don’t miss the annual Green Fair happening simultaneously, where you can learn about environmental sustainability and ways to make a difference in our community and world. Also explore fair trade items such as jewelry, household items, coffee, baskets from Ten Thousand Villages and support artisans worldwide. It’s a morning you won’t want to miss—come for the treats, stay for the impact!

Mondays with Monica and Augustine on Monday 5/6

  • 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.

Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group on Tuesday 5/7

  • Calling all young adults, join our Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group (CFYA) on Tuesdays at 7pm for community, faith building and social gatherings. Reach out to cfyagg@gmail.com to get plugged in with the group or sign up at the link HERE. 

Monthly Grief Group “What We Can Learn from Mary While Grieving” 5/7

  • Experiencing the loss of a loved one is a difficult journey. Our Lady of Mercy is offering a monthly supportive place for participants ages 18 and older living with grief to be together in a faith community to find healing and hope.
  • Come to our session “What We Can Learn from Mary While Grieving” on Tuesday, 5/7 from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 217
  • Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.

Bible Study on the Book of Revelation 5/8

  • On Tuesday evenings at 7pm through June 11, the Bible Study on the book of Revelation.  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

SoulCore Continues on Wednesday 5/8

  • All women are invited to SoulCore on Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm to nourish body and soul through prayer, core strengthening and functional movements. This Easter season we will be praying the Glorious Mysteries.
    In May, SoulCore is holding a fitness challenge that women can take part in called “Movement for Mary” commit to 30 minutes of movement per day (your choice…cardio, strength or stretch) and pray at least one decade of the rosary each day. The focus is on different titles of Mary.  Each week you’ll receive an email containing 5 SoulCore Rosary single decade videos, with movements and reflection to accompany each title, you can sign up to take part in this challenge here.
  • Let us know you are attending, register here or just show up with a work-out mat, bottle of water and wear comfortable clothing on Wednesdays at 6:15pm so we can start at 6:30pm on May 1, 8, 15, and 22.

An Introduction to Catholic Social Teaching 5/8

  • “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 5/8 and Part 2 on 5/15 from 6:30pm – 8:30 pmWhere. 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

Fit Shepherds on Wednesday and Saturday mornings

  • 🔥 Join the Ranks of Fit Shepherds! 🔥Are you tired of the narrative that encourages men to scatter when life gets tough? Ready to break free from the mold of the hireling and embrace the call of the Good Shepherd? Then it’s time to step up and join Fit Shepherds!At Fit Shepherds, we’re not just about fitness; we’re about becoming the best version of ourselves—physically, mentally, and spiritually. Through challenging workouts, camaraderie, and discipleship, we’re forging men who lay down their lives for their families and communities.In a world where the wolf prowls and seeks to scatter, we stand together as brothers, ready to face the challenges head-on. Whether you’re 14 or 40, if you want to be better—for yourself, your loved ones, and your community—Fit Shepherds is the place for you.Join us Saturdays at 7am and Wednesdays at 5:30am in the parking lot, and together, let’s become the leaders, the protectors, and the shepherds our world desperately needs. Don’t be a hireling—be a Fit Shepherd. Let’s embark on a journey of transformation, strength, and purpose!
  • 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. Dads are encouraged to bring their sons 5th grade and older. Get a glimpse of a Saturday morning work out at the following video,

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’re currently seeking committed adorers for Wednesdays at 1pm and 3pm.  
  • We continue to seek second adorers for the times where we only have one committed adorer. 
  • Proceed here to sign up.  
  • Fr. Michael is urging us to not only dedicate an hour to spend with Jesus but also to consider sharing this commitment with one or two friends. If you’re unsure about making this commitment, this suggestion offers a lovely way to overcome any doubts and enhance your friendships. Just imagine the enriching conversations you could have with each other about your experiences spending time with Jesus.

Every Holy Hour we make so pleases the Heart of Jesus that it is recorded in Heaven and retold for all eternity!

St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Aurora Day of Service 5/11

  • Teens from the LIGHT youth ministry program at OLM are hosting a Day of Service in the community!
  • This summer, some of us are traveling for mission work in the Winchester, Kentucky area. To help with the cost of the trip, we’re asking you to put us to work…for YOU!
  • HOW DOES IT WORK? It’s rather simple. Think of an outdoor job you simply don’t have the time or the desire to do, such as mulching, weeding, fence painting, yard clean-up, etc. Fill out the slip at the link below and return it to OLM by May 5th.   You will receive a call a few days later to confirm the job and location….and at the designated time (we arrange transportation), “SUPERTEENS” will arrive to do the work on May 11th!
  • CLICK HERE for more information & registration 

May Crowning at 4pm Mass 5/11

  • On Saturday May 11th at 4pm, a crown of flowers for Mary is brought up in procession and then placed on her statue by several of our first communion children. This beautiful tradition honors the Blessed Virgin Mary in her role as mother to everybody.

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.

Pick Up a Baby Bottle for Life 5/11 & 5/12

  • The 2024 Waterleaf Baby Bottles for Life campaign is to benefit, support, and educate pregnant women facing crisis or unintended pregnancies.  The funds collected will support the life-affirming programs and services of the Waterleaf Women’s Center located in Aurora.  The campaign will run from 5/12 (Mother’s Day) through 6/16 (Father’s Day).
    Participation is so easy;
    • Take a bottle or envelope home
    • Fill your bottle with coins, cash, or checks (envelopes cash and check only)
    • Return the bottle or envelope to the church
    • Pray for the clients and staff at Waterleaf
  • Waterleaf’s mission is to be the chosen destination for women facing an unplanned pregnancy, transforming their fear into confidence by addressing their physical, spiritual, and emotional needs and equipping them to make healthy, life-affirming decisions.

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 5/15

  • The Mobile Food Pantry is on Wednsday 5/15 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!

Meet & Greet Gathering 5/19

  • 𝟱/𝟭𝟵 @ 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 5/19 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!

St. Peregrine & St. Dymphna Prayer Service 5/21

  • For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers, come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 5/21 following the 6:30pm Mass.
  • St. Peregrine is the patron saint of the sick especially those experiencing cancer, serious or terminal illness, or chronic illness. The feast day of St. Peregrine is May 4. St. Dymphna is the patron saint of stress, anxiety, and mental health. The feast day of St. Dymphna is May 15. 

Magnify Adoration 5/29    

  • Our monthly MAGNIFY is on Wednesday 5/29 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- 8:30pm in the Church. Don’t forget to bring your children, neighbors, and friends.
  • A quick note on worship/singing to Jesus.  Have you noticed how uplifted, less burdened you are after singing to Jesus at MAGNIFY? God has designed our bodies so perfectly that when you sing, blood is pumped through your body which stimulates the production of three great hormones and suppresses one bad hormone. The three good hormones include endorphins and dopamine, which promote relaxation and well-being. And the other good hormone is oxytocin, which is the hormone that is produced when a mother sings to their baby, or when you lovingly look at your dog.  It is the hormone of belonging, of community, of cohesion, of goodwill towards your fellow human beings.
    The bad hormone, that is suppressed when you sing, is cortisol which is produced in the body when we are stressed and singing is a natural de-stressing agent. In essence, singing to Jesus at MAGNIFY not only uplifts our spirits but also positively impacts our physical well-being. We hope to see you on 5/29.

Corpus Christi Eucharistic Procession 6/2

  • SAVE THE DATE. Let us gather together bearing witness to our love of our Lord Jesus in the Holy Eucharist by walking with Him at the Corpus Christi Procession on Sunday immediately following the 12pm Mass. 

Chicago Young Adult Eucharistic Revival Event 6/28

  • the Eucharistic Congress is happening this summer in July in Indianapolis, and to lead up to the Congress, Jesus is going on a Pilgrimage along 4 different routes, all headed towards Indianapolis. The exciting news is that CHICAGO is along the Marian Route of the Pilgrimage!!!!!! AND there is a special event on Friday, June 28th specifically for young adults. 
  • The event will include Mass at 6:30pm at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church (1429 W Wellington Ave), followed by a Eucharistic procession around the block and a social with food.

2024-2025 Faith Formation Registration is now OPEN!

Knights of Columbus 2024 College Scholarship 

  • Applications for the 2024 Robert H Weaver Knights of Columbus College Scholarship program are now being accepted through Saturday, June 14th. A total of $2,000 will be awarded to students graduating from High School in 2024 and attending a 2 or 4 year University program starting in the fall of 2024. Applications can be found by visiting the following link on the Parish Website.  Awards will be made in July.  Good luck to all applicants.  Questions please reach out to Jeff LeRoy, Grand Knight jleroy53@hotmail.com

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 April is titled “Faith-Inspired Movies” 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

St. Vincent de Paul Society

  • Who is the Our Lady of Mercy St. Vincent de Paul Society? We are a parish group of men and women who are called to follow Jesus Christ through service to our neighbors. You can find these details at their website.
  • Who are the neighbors assisted?
    • They are parishioners and non-parishioners who experience a temporary financial set back.
    • They are single mothers who have missed a paycheck due to a
      child’s illness.
    • They are people living paycheck to paycheck where one
      unexpected expense, like a car repair or medical bill can cause
      them to get behind on rent or utility payments.
  • How does the society help them?
    • We visit them in their homes and listen to their needs and
      concerns.
    • We help them with rent or mortgage payments, utility payments or food certificates.
  • How can you help?
    • You can donate to the St Vincent de Paul Society, either with a
      monthly envelope or through online giving.
    • You can join our society. We need your help. Please email us at olmsvdp@gmail.com
  • Last year, with God’s grace and parish donations, the Our Lady of Mercy’s St. Vincent de Paul Society assisted 79 families! That is 79 families who were able to stay in their home, have their electricity or water service restored. Thank you again for your continued support. Please keep our society and those we help in your prayers.

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.

  1. Visit http://signup.formed.org/
  2. Enter our parish zip or name
  3. 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

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.