Author: Zara Tan

May 7, 2022 | Parish Update

May 7, 2022 | Parish Update

Good Shepherd Sunday & Save the Dates

“My Sheep Hear My Voice”
“Love without suffering is sweet, but it is soft and sentimental; suffering without love is strong, but it is hard and bitter; but love that suffers is both strong and sweet,” writes Catholic philosopher Peter Kreeft.

To know someone in the deepest sense is to see them totally, to love and trust them unconditionally. “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me,” Jesus asserts in John’s Gospel. God knows us in the deepest sense. He created us! Do we care to know God deeper, to allow ourselves to be seen fully and thus transformed, and then respond to the mission he’s calling us to?

Jesus knows us. Do we know Him?

Consider watching the video on the Flocknote email of Bishop Barron on how the early apostles led the Church in boldness and courage.

As a Church rooted in the apostles (“one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church”), we take inspiration from the early leaders who went out into the world to boldly preach the Good News of Jesus Christ!

We hope to see you at the weekend Mass times where Father James is preaching or stop by and visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.


“The nation doesn’t simply need what we have. It needs what we are.”
-St. Teresa Benedicta (Edith Stein)

Did you miss Deacon Tom’s homily last week on “Do you love Me? Follow Me”? See it below.  


LOOKING AHEAD

Knights of Columbus Blood Drive 5/14
  • Schedule to donate blood at this link on Saturday 5/14 from 8am to 12pm in room 114. Every donor will save up to 3 lives!
  • While appointments are appreciated, walk-ins are welcome!
  • Please make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating. Thank you!
First Holy Communion 5/14 & 5/15
  • Please keep our children receiving their First Holy Communion next weekend on 5/14 & 5/15 in your prayers!
Hear from our Seminarian Andrew Bogusz at the Serra Dinner on 5/16
  • Our seminarian Andrew Bogusz will be the speaker at the Serra Club May Dinner on Monday 5/16th at St. Michael’s in Wheaton.
  • The evening starts with Rosary at 6pm followed by Mass, fellowship, dinner, and then hearing from Andrew.
  • Please RSVP by 5/12th to D. Thurman d21thurman@gmail.com or 630-642-2618
St. Peregrine and St. Dymphna Prayer Service 5/17
  • All are invited to attend the St. Peregrine and St. Dymphna Prayer Service on Tuesday, 5/17th in the church after the 6:30pm Mass with Deacon Tony Leazzo and Jolene LeRoy RN Director of Pastoral Care.
  • 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. Our parish has the St. Peregrine Ministry devoted to St. Peregrine and the Open HEARTS Ministry devoted to St. Dymphna. We are having one prayer service to celebrate their feast days in May.
Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 5/18
  • This month’s Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 5/18th 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 food during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please clear space in your trunk or backseat so volunteers can load boxes of food directly into your vehicle. Catholic Charities helps people of all faiths and beliefs. Mobile Food Pantries take place snow or shine!
Deacon Tom’s Ordination 5/21
  • Have you ever been to a priest ordination?  As Deacon Tom has invited us at the end of Mass last weekend if you’ve never gone “I do hope that some of you come to my ordination, it is an incredibly beautiful ceremony, I’ll be anointed on my hands to be consecrated to minister to the people of God, it’s very profound.”
  • Let us all come out, support, and be a witness as he says yes to the sacred and holy priesthood of our Lord Jesus Christ.  See you at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus at 604 N. Raynor Avenue in Joliet at 11am.
Tour the Holy Land & Greece with Father Don & Deacon Mike Informational Sessions on 5/21 & 5/22
  • Join Father Don and Deacon Mike Plese for a pilgrimage to Israel and Greece to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and Saint Paul. There will be information sessions on Saturday, 5/21 at 10am and on Sunday, 5/22 at 1:30pm in Room 114. For additional information or to register for the trip call (855)842- 8001 or go to www.proximotravel.com.
Neighborhood Clean-Up Day on 5/21
  • A clean-up day will take place on Saturday, 5/21, for residents of Ward 8. Trash compactor trucks will be arriving at 8AM and will leave promptly at 11AM. Trucks will be placed at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church. Acceptable Items: building materials, empty or dried out paint cans, discarded furniture, large & small household appliances, carpet & pads, grills, wood, metal, old toys, bicycles, mattresses & similar items. For questions, please call the Aldermen Patty Smith’s Office at 630-256-3020. *NO ELECTRONICS*
MAGNIFY is on 5/25
  • Save the date for MAGNIFY this month which is on 5/25th, we hope to see you there as we continue celebrating these days of Easter and preparing our hearts for Pentecost. #adorationeasterpraiseandworship #scripturalreflection #confessions #prayerministry.
Sign Up to Receive the Pentecost Novena that starts 5/27
  • Let’s come together as a parish family in praying a novena in preparation for Pentecost Sunday for an outpouring of the Love of the Father and the Son, that is the Holy Spirit, on our parish, our families, and our community especially those who have not met Jesus.
    Starts Friday 5/27 to Saturday 6/4 which is the Vigil of Pentecost. Receive the Novena in your Inbox at 7AM at this link 
  • The novena to the Holy Spirit is significant because it was the first Novena. Before Jesus ascended to Heaven, He instructed our Lady and His disciples to return to Jerusalem to pray and wait for the promise of the Father. As our Lady and the disciples waited and prayed, let us do so as well.
  • On May 4, 1897, Pope Leo XIII proclaimed: “We decree and command that throughout the whole Catholic Church, this year and in every subsequent year, a novena shall take place before Pentecost, in all parish churches.”  (Encyclical On the Holy Spirit, 13). Come Holy Spirit enkindle in us the fire of Your love!
Mary’s Squad In-Person Workout starts 5/28
  • Mary’s Squad workouts on Saturday mornings at 9:15am will now be in-person starting on 5/28th!
  • Workout details are: stretch and strengthening mat workout while we pray the rosary. Concludes with 10 minutes of meditative silent prayer followed by group prayer intentions.
  • On some Saturday mornings, a certified SoulCore instructor (Kiley Tyler) will lead a SoulCore workout (check out this video to find out what it is); a much better and safe alternative to yoga.
  • Please reach out and Juanita Pacheco juanitapacheco@yahoo.com one of the leads and let them know you will be joining them; they are looking forward to welcoming you.
Salt & Light is starting a new series “Sharing Christ” on 6/1
  • Not part of any of our Grow Groups?  Like Jesus’ disciples, our walk with the Lord today is not one lived in isolation but rather one immersed in community and enriched by authentic friendship with others. Salt & Light Grow Group provide a place of deep transformation where people can be known, loved, and cared for as they strive to deepen their friendship with Jesus and one another.
  • They are starting a new series called “Sharing Christ” details and registration are found here.  See you on Wednesdays at 7pm starting 6/1st.
  • Connect with Bob Maxwell our Salt and Light Grow Group Leader at bmaxwell@deltadentalil.com or 630-962-8464.
Vines & Branches Grow Group is starting a new book study (on annulment) on 6/1
  • Do you know anyone or are you seeking answers about the Catholic annulment process after having gone through the pain of divorce?
  • Perhaps you or someone you know have gotten divorced and have not gone through annulment?  Come to the book study at Vines & Branches Grow Group where you will go through “Mending the Heart: a Catholic Annulment Companion” by Lisa Duffy.  Meets on Wednesdays at 7pm, please register herel
Pentecost Vigil & Father Tom Logue’s Reception 6/4
  • Father Tom will celebrate his first Mass at Our Lady of Mercy at the Pentecost Vigil Mass at 6:30pm.  Immediately after is a reception for Father Tom.
  • Did you know that the Pentecost Vigil is one of the top 3 most beautiful liturgies after Midnight Mass and Easter!  Please save the date for this beautiful hidden gem of the Catholic liturgy and time with Father Tom at the reception.
Knights of Columbus Robert H. Weaver Scholarship Application Submit by 6/18
  • Calling all High School Seniors at Our Lady of Mercy, the Knights of Columbus Robert H. Weaver Council #12005 has established a scholarship program for high school seniors seeking financial assistance for continuing education (accredited trade school / junior college, college or university only). Scholarships are awarded primarily on the basis of merit to Our Lady of Mercy parishioners who are high school seniors.
  • All applications must be submitted no later than Saturday, June 18 @ 4pm.
  • Proceed to this link for application details, requirements, and contact information.
Corpus Christi Procession 6/19
  • Save the date for our Corpus Christi Procession on Sunday 6/19th from 1pm to 3pm immediately following the 12pm Mass.
  • Connect with Shirley Staples (630) 815-5799, shirleystaples@yahoo.com for any questions.
  • Why participate in the Corpus Christi Procession?
    • Saint Pope John Paul II said it best on why he encourages you and I to take part in the procession. . . simply put it’s to make Jesus Christ “known in the modern metropolis.”  The procession reminds us Jesus is present in the world, it’s also an outward sign that represents a deeper reality, an interior disposition, here is Jesus’ body, blood, soul, and divinity under the appearances of bread, the host, walking through the streets.
    • Or as Pope Benedict XVI points out, “Corpus Christi processions allow us to “immerse [Christ], so to speak, in the daily routine of our lives, so that He may walk where we walk and live where we live.”
  • We look forward to walking with Jesus with you on Sunday, 6/19th!
Did you know Yoga is bad for you? Find out why on 6/28
  • “Wait what?” you’re probably wondering.  Father James actually spoke about this in one of his AMA segments.  Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group is hosting Kiley Tyler Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Exercise Science at Loyola University Chicago and is also a certified SoulCore instructor where she will speak about why Yoga is harmful and what you can do instead.
  • Come hear the talk on Tuesday 6/28th @ 7pm.  Bring everyone you know who does Yoga to the talk.
Undone Freedom for the Feminine Heart 9/22 thru 9/24
  • Save the Date for the Women’s Conference from John Paull II Healing Center – Undone – Freedom for the Feminine Heart taking place here at Our Lady of Mercy from Thursday 9/22 through Saturday 9/24.  Registration opens 6/27th.
  • Do you desire to dive deeper into the freedom that you were created for? Do you feel restricted and bound by the knots of sin and shame that conceal the profound beauty of your feminine heart?
    Ladies, immerse yourself in a three-day conference of truth and transformation as the knots of Eve, in us, are undone by Mary’s example of radical receptivity. Through a series of talks, teachings, and prayer experiences, you will be invited to become Undone in God’s presence while deeply receiving the truth of your authentic identity.  Let your friends know to save these dates as well, you won’t want to miss this conference.
Family Faith Formation Office is Hiring 
  • Coordinator of Family & Youth Evangelization & Catechesis for 
    Grades 6-12 Youth Ministry – LIGHT & EDGE
    We are seeking a part-time Coordinator for Family and Youth Catechesis and Evangelization for Grades 6-12. The Coordinator will work with a ministry team to develop and grow disciples for Christ and send them on mission. The primary focus will be spent working with high school and middle school teens and their families in a variety of ministry settings. An applicant must have experience in youth or family ministry, have a Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies, or Pastoral Ministry or a related field and must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing, and must know, profess and act consistently in accordance with the doctrinal and moral teachings of the Catholic Church, and with the mission, philosophy, objectives, and policies of the Diocese of Joliet. The position is 28 hours a week with no benefits.Please submit a resume to Dave Miserendino via email at DaveM@olmercy.com.
Support Our Teens Going on the Mission Trip
  • Every moment we walk alongside a young person as they join in the work God is doing is an opportunity to affirm their purpose and celebrate their gifts.  You have the opportunity to walk alongside our teens in a simple and good way by supporting them financially to offset the costs of the Misson Trip, any dollar amount is helpful.
  • Drop your donation in a marked envelope into the offertory baskets during Mass or donate online through Our Sunday Visitor platform here: https://www.osvhub.com/olmercy/funds.
  • Please also keep our teens, parents, and volunteers in prayer, as they prepare for and go on the Mission Trip to serve a neighborhood in need in Ohio in July.  In a special way let us pray for our teens for God to bless their quest for purpose, joining them in prayer on their journey to discover what God is doing in their lives.
Building a Community Garden on Parish Grounds
  • Do you have a green thumb? Or perhaps you like gardening and are good at caring for plants?  Connect with the Justice & Peace Ministry, which is planning a Community Garden at Our Lady of Mercy.  Produce from the Community Garden will be given to local organizations such as Hesed House and local food pantries. Please contact Ida at 630-605- 6038 or idamphillips@gmail.com or Chris at 631-561-9722 or chrisharveyny@gmail.com.  They will be forming a committee to organize and care for the community garden.
Parish Mission – Unbound: Freedom In Christ Conference
  • 𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗨𝗻𝗯𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗼𝗺 𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟮, 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲’𝘀 𝗮 𝗴𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗽𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗱𝗼𝘄𝗻. 𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦, be encouraged; read Unbound and connect with unboundjoliet@gmail.com after reading the first 7 chapters for next steps.
    𝘐𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘥, please let us know of your experience by filling out this feedback form, we would be most grateful for your insight.

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 to Christian values the government schools are indoctrinating the children who attend the government schools?  You’re not alone.
  • Join a growing number of OLM parents who have made the movement!  Consider connecting with some of the families who have made the move from 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 the last quarter of 2021, we provided assistance to 35 people/families.
  • 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
  • Read Father Don’s insightful weekly Bulletin article located here. 
Don’t Get Scammed by Fake Fathers!
  • Did you get an email or a text message from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.
Supporting OLM through the CMAA
  • Thank you so much to those who have pledged!  Once we have reached our goal in paid pledges, 70% of the additional funds received will be returned to our parish.
  • Father Don and Bishop Hicks are asking us to join them in pledging to the CMAA to help the poor and vulnerable, form our future shepherds, and spread the faith through our Catholic schools, faith formation programs in parishes, and programs for young adults.
  • Donations can be made here Check out how your gifts to the CMAA help at this link. Thank you for your consideration.
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 be praying 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.


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.

 

 

SAVE THE DATE

May 5, 2022 | Parish Update

May 5, 2022 | Parish Update

Invitation & Prayers Leading up to the Ordination to the Priesthood of Deacon Tom Logue


Deacon Tom’s Vocation Story

I felt the call to priesthood at the young age of 5, though upon reaching junior high I began to dismiss the idea of such a path and began growing apart from God. Throughout high school the thought continued to follow me along with God’s own providence. On our senior Kairos retreat in high school I had an encounter with the love of God that prompted me to prostrate myself on the floor in surrender to Jesus with a willingness to do whatever He might ask of me, and He began to hint once again that this was priesthood. A number of trials and subsequent mistakes began to weigh on me at this time, and by the Lord’s loving grace I was continually drawn to both fasting and to being alone with Him in our high school chapel in off-time everyday in study halls and occasional lunch periods. I was eventually led to the sacrament of confession and gave all the ugliness of my sin to Jesus, only to have the priest remark to my surprise afterwards, “Tom, I think you have a vocation to the priesthood.”

Months later, on entering college, I began to seriously discern this invitation of Christ, and I fell in love with the Eucharist and His Bride, the Church before heading on to college seminary. I did take some time away from the seminary to discern more deeply the way of life to which Christ was calling me and worked as a youth minister in my diocese for a couple years before returning to formation at Mundelein. I could not be happier pursuing this vocation in the service of the Jesus and the Church, and I ask you to pray for myself and all of our seminarians that would be perpetual witnesses to His mercy and love, especially in confession and His real presence in the Eucharist!

Priest Aspirations

Being Jesus’ instrument of mercy in the distribution of Eucharist, hearing confessions, and preaching for renewed conversion.


Save the Date for Father Tom’s
Mass of Thanksgiving & Reception at Our Lady of Mercy

Pentecost Vigil Mass
Saturday, June 4 @ 6:30pm

Immediately following the Mass
is a Reception for Father Tom Logue

Deacon Tom’s Homilies

Here are Deacon Tom’s homilies; thank you Holy Spirit for blessing us with your wisdom through Deacon Tom’s homilies.

https://youtu.be/6u6oUro6AI4 “Do you love Me? Follow Me.”
https://youtu.be/rVF71LJ19MY Entering the Passion/Jesus, Priest and Victim
https://youtu.be/psK_c50KgUE Come Out of Your Tomb
https://youtu.be/S_eDtArs_ws  When Grace is Tested
https://youtu.be/B9roFL_2uGk Like Sheep without a Shepherd
https://youtu.be/_GnoRm4z8UQ  The Gift of the Eucharist and Eucharistic Reverence

 

April 10, 2022 | Parish Update

April 10, 2022 | Parish Update

Happy Palm Sunday, the first day of Holy Week

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸, 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝘆 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲? 𝗕𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿, 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘄𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗲𝘆𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁.  The holiest days of the liturgical year, the Easter Triduum is in this Great Week; these are the days that have changed the world.   What exactly is the Easter Triduum you may ask? Or how to make the most of Holy Week?  Perhaps we should start out with a Prayer to Begin Holy Week.  You can find these and more on our Holy Week and & Easter Schedule and Resource page.

𝑴𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒚 𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒓𝒊𝒕 𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒉𝒆𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒏𝒆𝒘 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒕 𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒉𝒖𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒉𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚.   𝑾𝒆 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒆𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒘𝒆𝒆𝒌 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒂𝒕 𝑶𝒖𝒓 𝑳𝒂𝒅𝒚 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒆𝒓𝒄𝒚.

To prepare our hearts for Holy Week consider watching the video on the Flocknote email of a video on Jesus’ suffering, death, and Resurrection from the series Catholicism 101 with Rachel Bulman with these questions in mind: 
  • Do you believe that you would have stood apart from the crowd in crying for Jesus to be crucified?  Would you have been silent?  Would you have joined them?
  • What are the “seven last words” of Christ?
  • Why is the resurrection of Christ so central to what our faith is about?

“Holy Spirit, let the grace of this Holy Week change my heart”

 

Did you miss Deacon Tom’s homily last week on “Come Out of Your Tomb”?  See it below.


LOOKING AHEAD

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 4/19
  • All are invited to attend the in-person St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday, 4/19 in the church after the 6:30pm Mass (at 7pm) with Deacon Tony Leazzo and Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care.
  • St. Peregrine is the patron saint of the sick, especially those experiencing cancer, serious illness, or chronic illness. Anyone experiencing physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual health concerns would benefit from attending the prayer service. The relic of St. Peregrine will be present.
Mobile Food Pantry 4/20
  • The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 4/20th 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 food during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please clear space in your trunk or backseat so volunteers can load boxes of food directly into your vehicle. Catholic Charities helps people of all faiths and beliefs. Mobile Food Pantries take place snow or shine!
Earth Day 4/23
  • We will celebrate Earth Day 2022 with a free Green Fair on Saturday 4/23rd from 9am to 3pm.  There will be plenty of organizations with displays of important information on how to be a greener household, community, world, and more. Let your friends and neighbors know.  Check out the list of organizations in this ad.
  • Fiesta Taco Food Truck will be at the fair.
Regarding the Second Collection on the weekend of 4/23 & 4/24
  • On the weekend of April 23-24, our diocese will take up a second collection for the Catholic Home Missions Appeal. Nearly 40% of dioceses in the United States and its territories are unable to fund the essential pastoral work their communities need. This appeal helps our brothers and sisters here in the United States who do not have access to basic pastoral services like Mass, the sacraments, and religious education. Through your support, the Catholic Home Missions Appeal helps these mission dioceses form vibrant faith communities and strengthens the Church at home.
Divine Mercy Feast Day 4/24
  • In celebration of the Feast Day of Divine Mercy on Sunday 4/24, we will hold a beautiful celebratory service in the MPR at 2pm. Our service will include a group recitation of The Chaplet of the Divine Mercy, 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 (Fathers Don and James) in designated PLC rooms
    • 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 (April 15), 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 23rd.

MAGNIFY 4/27
  • An Easter-themed MAGNIFY will be on Wednesday 4/27 @ 7pm #adorationeasterpraiseandworship #scripturalreflection #confessions #prayerministry. Save the date.
Aurora Day of Service 5/7
  • Aurora Day of Service is May 7th. Parishioners are invited to request a job that can be done around the yard or garage. Get the details and sign-up form HERE.
  • Teen Volunteers for Aurora Day of Service. Get the details and sign-up HERE.
Knights of Columbus Robert H. Weaver Scholarship Application Submit by 6/18
  • Calling all High School Seniors at Our Lady of Mercy, the Knights of Columbus Robert H. Weaver Council #12005 has established a scholarship program for high school seniors seeking financial assistance for continuing education (accredited trade school / junior college, college or university only). Scholarships are awarded primarily on the basis of merit to Our Lady of Mercy parishioners who are high school seniors.
  • All applications must be submitted no later than Saturday, June 18 @ 4pm.
  • Proceed to this link for application details, requirements, and contact information.
Bishop Hicks’ Column for April
  • Check out Bishop Hicks monthly message to us titled “Lenten Pruning Leads to Easter Glory“. Read it here.
  • On Saturday 4/2nd, the 4pm Mass-goers were so blessed by the visit from Bishop Hicks! Here are a few pics from Bishop Hick’s visit.
Easter Flowers Dedications
  • If you’d like to dedicate one of the Easter flowers which will decorate our sanctuary during the Easter season, please proceed to this link and log in to Online Giving and choose “Flowers”.
  • If you wish to memorialize your loved ones you can add their name(s) in the Comments section. You can also find Flower Offering Envelopes in the Narthex. The recommended donation is $10 for each memorial. Memorials donated between now and 4/3 will appear in a future bulletin.

Family Faith Formation Office is Hiring for 2 Positions
  • Administrative Assistant Grade Pre-K through Grade 12 
    Does the idea of placing your administrative skills at the service of growing the Catholic faith-life of families bring you joy?  We are seeking an individual who possesses a positive team spirit, is comfortable taking initiative, and demonstrates strong interpersonal skills. Being fluent in Spanish and English is desired.
    Other requirements include; Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Accounting skills, Record Keeping, Coordination of Volunteers and Tracking Safe Environment Requirements, and Comfortable learning technology platforms.The position is full time 37.5 Hours/Week, Benefited, Some Evening & Weekend Hours Expected. Interested candidates may send a cover letter and resume to Mary Jo Trapani at maryjot@olmercy.com
  • Coordinator of Family & Youth Evangelization & Catechesis for 
    Grades 6-12 Youth Ministry – LIGHT & EDGE
    We are seeking a part-time Coordinator for Family and Youth Catechesis and Evangelization for Grades 6-12. The Coordinator will work with a ministry team to develop and grow disciples for Christ and send them on mission. The primary focus will be spent working with high school and middle school teens and their families in a variety of ministry settings. An applicant must have experience in youth or family ministry, have a Bachelor’s Degree in Religious Studies, or Pastoral Ministry or a related field and must be a practicing Roman Catholic in good standing, and must know, profess and act consistently in accordance with the doctrinal and moral teachings of the Catholic Church, and with the mission, philosophy, objectives, and policies of the Diocese of Joliet. The position is 28 hours a week with no benefits.Please submit a resume to Dave Miserendino via email at DaveM@olmercy.com. 

Support Our Teens Going on the Mission Trip
  • Every moment we walk alongside a young person as they join in the work God is doing is an opportunity to affirm their purpose and celebrate their gifts.  You have the opportunity to walk alongside our teens in a simple and good way by supporting them financially to offset the costs of the Misson Trip, any dollar amount is helpful.
  • Drop your donation in a marked envelope into the offertory baskets during Mass or donate online through Our Sunday Visitor platform here: https://www.osvhub.com/olmercy/funds.
  • Please also keep our teens, parents, and volunteers in prayer, as they prepare for and go on the Mission Trip to serve at a neighborhood in need in Ohio in July.  In a special way let us pray for our teens for God to bless their quest for purpose, joining them in prayer on their journey to discover what God is doing in their lives.
Attention High School Teens – 4 Spots Left on the Mission Trip
  • There are still a few spots open for the High School Mission Trip to Ohio scheduled for this July. Proceed here for the LIGHT webpage or contact Dave in the office for more details.  Take part in this life-changing experience!
Building a Community Garden on Parish Grounds
  • Do you have a green thumb? Or perhaps you like gardening and are good at caring for plants?  Connect with the Justice & Peace Ministry, who is planning a Community Garden at Our Lady of Mercy.  Produce from the Community Garden will be given to local organizations such as Hesed House and local food pantries. Please contact Ida at 630-605- 6038 or idamphillips@gmail.com or Chris at 631-561-9722 or chrisharveyny@gmail.com.  They will be forming a committee to organize and care for the community garden.

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 to Christian values the government schools are indoctrinating the children who attend the government schools?  You’re not alone.
  • Join a growing number of OLM parents who have made the movement!  Consider connecting with some of the families who have made the move from 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 to schedule a personalized tour.  Or peruse their website to explore your interest.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word CLOW Volunteers
  • Every Sunday at the 10am Mass is the beautiful ministry of the Children’s Liturgy of the Word.  Do you love children and caring for them while they listen to the Gospel? Please connect with Mary Jo Trapani maryjot@olmercy.com or Jean Palasz jeanp@olmercy.com to volunteer.
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 the last quarter 2021, we provided assistance to 35 people/families.
  • 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
  • Read Father Don’s insightful weekly Bulletin article  located here. 

Don’t Get Scammed by Fake Fathers!
  • Did you get an email or a text message from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.
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 be praying 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 at 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.


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.

March 26, 2022 | Weekly Update

March 26, 2022 | Weekly Update

The Passover and the Prodigal

The event of the Passover celebrated the Hebrews’ freedom from their slavery in Egypt.

Passover also celebrates freedom from the slavery of sin. For we Christians, this is the call: to live a life “fully alive,” free of addiction and self-centered egotism. This is the story of the Prodigal Son—the evocative parable that speaks up and down the generations. It’s the story of us all when we selfishly grasp out of concern only for ourselves instead of honoring God, the giver of the gift and life itself.

It’s also the story of conversion and the fact that God never gives up on us. He’s always scanning the horizon, waiting for us to come home.

Everything is grace and everything is a gift.

Come and encounter His grace at the weekend Mass times where Father James is preaching or stop by and visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.


To prepare our hearts to come to Holy Mass this weekend, consider watching this clip from the award-winning series Catholicism (formulated for school enrichment!) on the themes within the Prodigal Son: 

  • In the story of the Prodigal Son, who do I most identify with?   
    • When have I been the Son? 
    • When have I been the Father?
    • When have I been the Older Brother?
  • Why do you think Jesus spoke in parables?  Why did He tell stories instead of simply telling people facts about God?

“The glory of God is a man fully alive.”

—Saint Ireneaus

Did you miss Deacon Tom’s homily last week on “Why Be Catholic”?  See it below.


LOOKING AHEAD

An Ecumenical Chain-For-Life Event on 4/9
  • Register by 3/31st to join an ecumenical, prayerful, and silent pro-life event sponsored by St. Michael Catholic Church in Wheaton from 10:15am to 11:30am held at Compass Church parking lot.
  • Details and registration can be found here.
  • The media would have us believe that Pro-Life advocates are in the minority. The hope is to bring as many Pro-Life advocates as possible together in a large, visible way, to let others know who share a similar view, that they are not alone and certainly not in the minority.  We hope this will encourage them to speak out in their own way.  We also look to use this event to send a message to our Supreme Court (Dobb’s case decision is due this summer) and to our national, state, and local politicians, and to our broader communities, that we want an end to abortion.
Dispensation is Lifted on Palm Sunday 4/10
Earth Day 4/23
  • We will celebrate Earth Day 2022 with a Green Fair on Saturday 4/23rd from 9am to 3pm.  There will be plenty of organizations with displays of important information on how to be a greener household, community, world, and more. Details to follow. Let your friends and neighbors know.
Divine Mercy Feast Day 4/24
  • In celebration of the Feast Day of Divine Mercy on Sunday 4/24, we will hold a beautiful celebratory service in the MPR at 2pm. Our service will include a group recitation of The Chaplet of the Divine Mercy, 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 (Fathers Don and James) in designated PLC rooms
    • 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 (April 15), immediately after an 8 a.m. 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 23.


Knights of Columbus Robert H. Weaver Scholarship Application Submit by 6/18
  • Calling all High School Seniors at Our Lady of Mercy, the Knights of Columbus Robert H. Weaver Council #12005 has established a scholarship program for high school seniors seeking financial assistance for continuing education (accredited trade school / junior college, college or university only). Scholarships are awarded primarily on the basis of merit to Our Lady of Mercy parishioners who are high school seniors.
  • All applications must be submitted no later than Saturday, June 18 @ 4pm.
  • Proceed to this link for application details, requirements, and contact information.
Bishop Hicks’ Column for March
  • In his March column, Bishop Hicks writes about Pope Francis’ 2022 Lenten Message with gusto – or even with a tone of “Lenten Madness”. Read it here.
Easter Flowers Dedications
  • If you’d like to dedicate one of the Easter flowers which will decorate our sanctuary during the Easter season, please proceed to this link and log in to Online Giving and choose “Flowers”.
  • If you wish to memorialize your loved ones you can add their name(s) in the Comments section. You can also find Flower Offering Envelopes in the Narthex. The recommended donation is $10 for each memorial. Memorials donated between now and 4/3 will appear in a future bulletin.

Family Faith Formation Office Administrative Assistant Grade Pre-K-12
  • We’re hiring!  Does the idea of placing your administrative skills at the service of growing the Catholic faith-life of families bring you joy?  We are seeking an individual who possesses a positive team spirit, is comfortable taking initiative, and demonstrates strong interpersonal skills. Being fluent in Spanish and English is desired.
    Other requirements include: Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Accounting skills, Record Keeping, Coordination of Volunteers and Tracking Safe Environment Requirements, Comfortable learning technology platforms.
    The position is full time 37.5 Hours/Week, Benefited, Some Evening & Weekend Hours Expected supporting both Dave Miserendino and Mary Jo Trapani. Interested candidates may send a cover letter and resume to Mary Jo Trapani at maryjot@olmercy.com
Support Our Teens Going on the Mission Trip
  • Every moment we walk alongside a young person as they join in the work God is doing is an opportunity to affirm their purpose and celebrate their gifts.  You have the opportunity to walk alongside our teens in a simple and good way by supporting them financially to offset the costs of the Misson Trip, any dollar amount is helpful.
  • Drop your donation in a marked envelope into the offertory baskets during Mass or donate online through Our Sunday Visitor platform here: https://www.osvhub.com/olmercy/funds.
  • Please also keep our teens, parents, and volunteers in prayer, as they prepare for and go on the Mission Trip to serve at a neighborhood in need in Ohio in July.  In a special way let us pray for our teens for God to bless their quest for purpose, joining them in prayer on their journey to discover what God is doing in their lives.
Attention High School Teens – 5 Spots Left on the Mission Trip
  • There are still a few spots open for the High School Mission Trip to Ohio scheduled for this July. Proceed here for the LIGHT webpage or contact Dave in the office for more details.  Take part in this life-changing experience!
  • There is also 1 spot left for a female volunteer over age 25 to chaperone the teens.
Building a Community Garden on Parish Grounds
  • Do you have a green thumb? Or perhaps you like gardening and are good at caring for plants?  Connect with the Justice & Peace Ministry, who is planning a Community Garden at Our Lady of Mercy.  Produce from the Community Garden will be given to local organizations such as Hesed House and local food pantries. Please contact Ida at 630-605- 6038 or idamphillips@gmail.com or Chris at 631-561-9722 or chrisharveyny@gmail.com.  They will be forming a committee to organize and care for the community garden.
Did You Notice the New Beautiful Monstrance?
  • We have a beautiful new Monstrance beautifully holding our Lord Jesus.
  • What is a Monstrance you may wonder?  The monstrance is a liturgical vessel used to display the Real Presence of our Lord Jesus in the form of the Sacred Host for its adoration and veneration outside of Mass and outside of the tabernacle.  Here is a close-up picture or video from Magnify.
  • If you would like to offset the monies used to purchase the Monstrance, please submit your donation in an envelope with “Monstrance” written on it. Thank you for your generosity.

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 to Christian values the government schools are indoctrinating the children who attend the government schools?  You’re not alone.
  • Join a growing number of OLM parents who have made the movement!  Consider connecting with some of the families who have made the move from 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 to schedule a personalized tour.  Or peruse their website to explore your interest.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word CLOW Volunteers
  • Every Sunday at the 10am Mass is the beautiful ministry of the Children’s Liturgy of the Word.  Do you love children and caring for them while they listen to the Gospel? Please connect with Mary Jo Trapani maryjot@olmercy.com or Jean Palasz jeanp@olmercy.com to volunteer.
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 the last quarter 2021, we provided assistance to 35 people/families.
  • 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
  • Read Father Don’s insightful weekly Bulletin article (where he also shares an update on his health) located here. 

Don’t Get Scammed by Fake Fathers!
  • Did you get an email or a text message from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.
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 be praying 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 at 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.


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.

March 12, 2022 | Weekly Update

March 12, 2022 | Weekly Update

The Transfigured Body of Jesus

On this second Sunday of Lent we hear from God the Father Himself proclaiming to the terrified disciples on the top of the mountain:

“This is my chosen Son; listen to Him.”

Pretty big deal, right?  The Gospels are not myth or legend, but eye-witness accounts written by the disciples that knew and walked with Jesus during His time on earth. From Luke’s Gospel, we hear about the experience where Jesus’ body is illuminated by light (Transfigured) as He transcends space and time in conversing with Moses and Elijah.Our very bodies are something good, as declared by the Catholic faith. We can degrade the body or we can obsessively worship the body—by the truly Catholic stance is honoring the body because we are our bodies; we are a body and soul composite, destined to follow Christ in the illumination of heavenly life.

The question of who Jesus is, His very identity, is so important. If we miss this piece—and the goodness of His earthly body—we miss the point of Christianity.

We hope to see you at the weekend Mass times where Father Don is preaching or stop by and visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.


To prepare our hearts to come to Holy Mass this weekend, consider watching the short clip on the Flocknote email from Bishop Barron’s newest series 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘳𝘦𝘦𝘥: 𝘞𝘩𝘰 𝘪𝘴 𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘴?

“The flesh is the very condition on which salvation hinges.”

—Tertullian, Church Father

Did you miss Father James’ homily last week on “satan and Identity Deceptions”?  See it below.


LOOKING AHEAD

Our new pastor is here for a quick visit and will be at all the Masses on 3/19 & 3/20
  • You may not want to miss going to Holy Mass next weekend, because our new pastor Father Michael Kearney will be preaching at all the Mass times—except for the 10am.
St. Vincent de Paul Clothing Drive 3/19 & 3/20
  • Clear out your closets for a good cause!  Pick up a St. Vincent de Paul bag and bring it back on before and after the 4pm Mass on Saturday and on Sunday until noon.
  • The Clothing Drive 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. Unfortunately, NO TELEVISIONS.
Lenten MAGNIFY 3/23
  • Walk with Jesus through the desert this Lenten season at MAGNIFY.  Scriptural reflection by Father James, Adoration, Praise & Worship, Confessions, and Prayer Ministry.  So many powerful reasons to come to Lenten MAGNIFY.
Unplanned Movie Showing 3/25
  • The Respect Life ministry is showing the movie Unplanned at 6pm.  Students for Life will be present to answer questions and lead a group discussion after the movie.
  • “Unplanned” tells the story of Abby Johnson, who rose quickly through the ranks of Planned Parenthood, becoming one of the youngest clinic directors in the organization. One fateful day, she assists with an ultrasound-guided abortion of a 13-week-old fetus. And that changed everything for her.
    Johnson quit Planned Parenthood and became a pro-life advocate herself. She eventually founded “And Then There Were None,” which claims to be the only ministry in the country that helps abortion workers leave the industry and find new jobs. Close to 500 people, including doctors, have chosen a new walk of life through Johnson’s organization.
    Catholic News Service’s review of the film calls it, a “hard-hitting, fact-based drama (that) dares its viewers to confront the reality of what happens when a baby is aborted.”
  • Do you have a teenager or young adult in your life?  Bring them to watch Unplanned.  Or if you’ve never watched Unplanned, come and see this movie that is one of those that is important to see.
Lenten Fish Dinners on 3/25 and 4/1
  • Have dinner for a good cause!  All proceeds from the Lenten Fish Dinners benefit the Teen Summer Mission Trip. Free-will offerings will be accepted on both dates.
  • Fridays 3/25th and 4/1st from 5:30pm to 8pm with the following choices Jumbo Shrimp (6 pieces) $12, Cod (choice of baked or fried) $11, or Salmon $12. All plates include coleslaw, tator-tots, dinner roll, chocolate brownie and beverage (soda or water).
  • Ticket sales for both dates will be held the weekend of March 19-20 after all masses and in the Parish Office during the weeks of March 21-25 and March 28-April 1. A limited number of tickets will be available at the door.
Youth Alpha for High School Teens starts 4/3
  • Any high school teen who is interested in learning more about Christianity is welcome to attend! Alpha gives teens the opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed, friendly setting. The Alpha course usually meets once a week for 9 weeks, sometimes in a church, a home, or a restaurant. Sessions begin with food, followed by a short video/talk, and time to discuss the topic.
  • Our Spring Session will begin April 3rd, so please go to our Youth Alpha page to get all the details and then sign-up if you would like to attend. Please note this session of Alpha is for High School age teens. Please contact Dave if you have questions at DaveM@olmercy.com.
An Ecumenical Chain-For-Life Event on 4/9
  • Register by 3/31st to join an ecumenical, prayerful, and silent pro-life event sponsored by St. Michael Catholic Church in Wheaton from 10:15am to 11:30am held at Compass Church parking lot.
  • Details and registration can be found here.
  • The media would have us believe that Pro-Life advocates are in the minority. The hope is to bring as many Pro-Life advocates as possible together in a large, visible way, to let others know who share a similar view, that they are not alone and certainly not in the minority.  We hope this will encourage them to speak out in their own way.  We also look to use this event to send a message to our Supreme Court (Dobb’s case decision is due this summer) and to our national, state, and local politicians, and to our broader communities, that we want an end to abortion.
Knights of Columbus Robert H. Weaver Scholarship Application Submit by 6/18
  • Calling all High School Seniors at Our Lady of Mercy, the Knights of Columbus Robert H. Weaver Council #12005 has established a scholarship program for high school seniors seeking financial assistance for continuing education (accredited trade school / junior college, college or university only). Scholarships are awarded primarily on the basis of merit to Our Lady of Mercy parishioners who are high school seniors.
  • All applications must be submitted no later than Saturday, June 18 @ 4pm.
  • Proceed to this link for application details, requirements, and contact information.
Bishop Hicks’ Column for March
  • In his March column, Bishop Hicks writes about Pope Francis’ 2022 Lenten Message with gusto – or even with a tone of “Lenten Madness”. Read it here.
Family Faith Formation Office Administrative Assistant Grade Pre-K-12
  • We’re hiring!  Does the idea of placing your administrative skills at the service of growing the Catholic faith-life of families bring you joy?  We are seeking an individual who possesses a positive team spirit, is comfortable taking initiative, and demonstrates strong interpersonal skills. Being fluent in Spanish and English is desired.
    Other requirements include: Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Accounting skills, Record Keeping, Coordination of Volunteers and Tracking Safe Environment Requirements, Comfortable learning technology platforms.
    The position is full time 37.5 Hours/Week, Benefited, Some Evening & Weekend Hours Expected. Interested candidates may send a cover letter and resume to Mary Jo Trapani at maryjot@olmercy.com
Support Our Teens Going on the Mission Trip
  • Every moment we walk alongside a young person as they join in the work God is doing is an opportunity to affirm their purpose and celebrate their gifts.  You have the opportunity to walk alongside our teens in a simple and good way by supporting them financially to offset the costs of the Misson Trip, any dollar amount is helpful.
  • Drop your donation in a marked envelope into the offertory baskets during Mass or donate online through Our Sunday Visitor platform here: https://www.osvhub.com/olmercy/funds.
  • Please also keep our teens, parents, and volunteers in prayer, as they prepare for and go on the Mission Trip to serve at a neighborhood in need in Ohio in July.  In a special way let us pray for our teens for God to bless their quest for purpose, joining them in prayer on their journey to discover what God is doing in their lives.
Attention High School Teens – Few Spots Left on the Mission Trip
  • There are still a few spots open for the High School Mission Trip to Ohio scheduled for this July. Proceed here for the LIGHT webpage or contact Dave in the office for more details.  Take part in this life-changing experience!
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 to Christian values the government schools are indoctrinating the children who attend the government schools?  You’re not alone.
  • Join a growing number of OLM parents who have made the movement!  Consider connecting with some of the families who have made the move from 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 to schedule a personalized tour.  Or peruse their website to explore your interest.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word CLOW Volunteers
  • Every Sunday at the 10am Mass is the beautiful ministry of the Children’s Liturgy of the Word.  Do you love children and caring for them while they listen to the Gospel? Please connect with Mary Jo Trapani maryjot@olmercy.com or Jean Palasz jeanp@olmercy.com to volunteer.
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 the last quarter 2021, we provided assistance to 35 people/families.
  • 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
  • Read Father Don’s insightful weekly Bulletin article located here. 

Don’t Get Scammed by Fake Fathers!
  • Did you get an email or a text message from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.
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 be praying 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 at 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.


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.

March 5, 2022 | Weekly Update

March 5, 2022 | Weekly Update

Temptation in the Desert


To prepare our hearts to come to Holy Mass this weekend, consider watching the short clip from the award-winning Catholicism series “Who is Jesus?” in the Flocknote email

“Repent of the past briefly and quietly, and concentrate on the present!”

—Fr. Benedict Groeschel

Did you miss Father Don’s’ homily last week on “Respect, Welcoming Father Michael, & Giving to the CMAA”?  See it below.  Come and support OLM through the CMAA, donate at this link.


LOOKING AHEAD

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 3/15
  • All are invited to attend the in-person St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday, March 15 in the church after the 6:30pm Mass (at 7pm) with Deacon Tony Leazzo and Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care.
  • St. Peregrine is the patron saint of the sick, especially those experiencing cancer, serious illness, or chronic illness. Anyone experiencing physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual health concerns would benefit from attending the prayer service. The relic of St. Peregrine will be present.
Mobile Food Pantry 3/16
  • The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds Mar 16th 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 food during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please clear space in your trunk or backseat so volunteers can load boxes of food directly into your vehicle. Catholic Charities helps people of all faiths and beliefs. Mobile Food Pantries take place snow or shine!

Parish Mission – Unbound 3/18 & 3/19
  • Proceed to this link for details and registration for the 2-day parish mission on Friday evening 3/18 from 6:30pm to 9:15pm and all day Saturday 3/19 from 9am to 8pm (catered lunch & dinner included)
  • Led by Father Burke Masters, Father Steven Borello, Father James Guarascio, and the Unbound Team!
  • These past two years have been a difficult time for us and we need a place to process what we’ve been through; from a number of things from our past or from our time during the lockdown, that we had either forgotten about or had never really dealt with.
    With this in mind and our vision of providing ways to encounter Jesus, grow as disciples, and experience more power for mission, our parish mission this year is an Unbound Conference. Looking forward to seeing you there.
  • Recommended reading prior to the conference is the “Unbound: A Practical Guide to Deliverance.”  The book is available in the parish office for $15, purchase a copy today and prepare your heart to be overwhelmed by the love of Jesus.
  • Check out the short video below on what Unbound is.  Please register soon. The deadline is Sunday 3/13th.


St. Vincent de Paul Clothing Drive 3/19 & 3/20
  • Clear out your closets for a good cause!  Pick up a St. Vincent de Paul bag and bring it back on before and after the 4pm Mass on Saturday and on Sunday until noon.
  • The Clothing Drive 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. Unfortunately, NO TELEVISIONS.
Lenten MAGNIFY 3/23
  • Walk with Jesus through the desert this Lenten season at MAGNIFY.  Scriptural reflection by Father James, Adoration, Praise & Worship, Confessions, and Prayer Ministry.  So many powerful reasons to come to Lenten MAGNIFY.
Unplanned Movie Showing 3/25
  • The Respect Life ministry is showing the movie Unplanned at 6pm.  Students for Life will be present to answer questions and lead a group discussion after the movie.
  • “Unplanned” tells the story of Abby Johnson, who rose quickly through the ranks of Planned Parenthood, becoming one of the youngest clinic directors in the organization. One fateful day, she assists with an ultrasound-guided abortion of a 13-week-old fetus. And that changed everything for her.
    Johnson quit Planned Parenthood and became a pro-life advocate herself. She eventually founded “And Then There Were None,” which claims to be the only ministry in the country that helps abortion workers leave the industry and find new jobs. Close to 500 people, including doctors, have chosen a new walk of life through Johnson’s organization.
    Catholic News Service’s review of the film calls it, a “hard-hitting, fact-based drama (that) dares its viewers to confront the reality of what happens when a baby is aborted.”
  • Do you have a teenager or young adult in your life?  Bring them to watch Unplanned.  Or if you’ve never watched Unplanned, come and see this movie that is one of those that is important to see.
Lenten Fish Dinners on 3/25 and 4/1
  • Have dinner for a good cause!  All proceeds from the Lenten Fish Dinners benefit the Teen Summer Mission Trip. Free-will offerings will be accepted on both dates.
  • Fridays 3/25th and 4/1st from 5:30pm to 8pm with the following choices Jumbo Shrimp (6 pieces) $12, Cod (choice of baked or fried) $11, or Salmon $12. All plates include coleslaw, tator-tots, dinner roll, chocolate brownie and beverage (soda or water).
  • Ticket sales for both dates will be held the weekend of March 19-20 after all masses and in the Parish Office during the weeks of March 21-25 and March 28-April 1. A limited number of tickets will be available at the door.
Youth Alpha for High School Teens starts 4/3
  • Any high school teen who is interested in learning more about Christianity is welcome to attend! Alpha gives teens the opportunity to explore the meaning of life in a relaxed, friendly setting. The Alpha course usually meets once a week for 9 weeks, sometimes in a church, a home, or a restaurant. Sessions begin with food, followed by a short video/talk, and time to discuss the topic.
  • Our Spring Session will begin April 3rd, so please go to our Youth Alpha page to get all the details and then sign-up if you would like to attend. Please note this session of Alpha is for High School age teens. Please contact Dave if you have questions at DaveM@olmercy.com.

An Ecumenical Chain-For-Life Event on 4/9
  • Register by 3/31st to join an ecumenical, prayerful, and silent pro-life event sponsored by St. Michael Catholic Church in Wheaton from 10:15am to 11:30am held at Compass Church parking lot.
  • Details and registration can be found here.
  • The media would have us believe that Pro-Life advocates are in the minority. The hope is to bring as many Pro-Life advocates as possible together in a large, visible way, to let others know who share a similar view, that they are not alone and certainly not in the minority.  We hope this will encourage them to speak out in their own way.  We also look to use this event to send a message to our Supreme Court (Dobb’s case decision is due this summer) and to our national, state, and local politicians, and to our broader communities, that we want an end to abortion.

Support Our Teens Going on the Mission Trip
  • Every moment we walk alongside a young person as they join in the work God is doing is an opportunity to affirm their purpose and celebrate their gifts.  You have the opportunity to walk alongside our teens in a simple and good way by supporting them financially to offset the costs of the Misson Trip, any dollar amount is helpful.
  • Drop your donation in a marked envelope into the offertory baskets during Mass or donate online through Our Sunday Visitor platform here: https://www.osvhub.com/olmercy/funds.
  • Please also keep our teens, parents, and volunteers in prayer, as they prepare for and go on the Mission Trip to serve at a neighborhood in need in Ohio in July.  In a special way let us pray for our teens for God to bless their quest for purpose, joining them in prayer on their journey to discover what God is doing in their lives.
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 to Christian values the government schools are indoctrinating the children who attend the government schools?  You’re not alone.
  • Join a growing number of OLM parents who have made the movement!  Consider connecting with some of the families who have made the move from 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 to schedule a personalized tour.  Or peruse their website to explore your interest.

Children’s Liturgy of the Word CLOW Volunteers
  • Every Sunday at the 10am Mass is the beautiful ministry of the Children’s Liturgy of the Word.  Do you love children and caring for them while they listen to the Gospel?  Please connect with Mary Jo Trapani maryjot@olmercy.com or Jean Palasz jeanp@olmercy.com to volunteer.
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 2021 we provided assistance to 35 people/families.
  • 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
  • Father Don speaks about our new pastor!  Read all about it at his weekly Bulletin article located here. 
Don’t Get Scammed by Fake Fathers!
  • Did you get an email or a text message from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.
For the Hispanic Community
  • Please proceed herefor 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 be praying 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 at 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.


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.

February 26, 2022 | An Important Announcement

February 26, 2022 | An Important Announcement

Bishop Ronald Hicks in consultation with the Priest Personnel Board has appointed Fr. Michael Kearney to succeed Fr. Don McLaughlin as Pastor of Our Lady of Mercy in Aurora effective July 1, 2022.

Fr. Michael writes: “I grew up in Naperville, just down the road, since I was four years old.  I went to Naperville Central for high school and I can remember coming to play against Waubonsie High School in volleyball.  I went to the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana and received my General Engineering degree concentrated in Control Theory Robotics with the hope to go in consulting work after college.  God, clearly had a different plan.  
It was in college my love for my Catholic faith grew exponentially and I wanted to share my faith with others.  After college I was blessed to do 7 years of college ministry and missionary work with FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students).  I worked at Washington University in St. Louis, Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, University of Kansas City in Missouri, and University of Colorado in Boulder!  
Father Michael Kearney
After hearing the Lord call me to the priesthood through prayer and ministry, I knew the Lord was calling me to serve in the Diocese of Joliet where I grew up!  I was ordained a Priest in May of 2016 and was assigned at Visitation Parish in Elmhurst.  And after 3 years, I was blessed to be assigned to serve in seminary formation helping young men discern their own vocational calling toward priesthood at St. John Vianney Minor Seminary in St. Paul Minnesota.  I currently serve as Formation Advisor and Spiritual Director for men in college seminary,  including men from our own diocese.   
I’m truly excited to be named by Bishop Ronald Hicks to be your next pastor at Our Lady of Mercy.  I know I have many things to learn, but excited to be back in the Diocese and be back in parish life!  I joke with my brother priests; I’m being called up from the Minors (as I worked at a minor seminary).  Please know of my prayers and I look forward to meeting you in July!”

While I don’t know Fr. Michael personally – he is one of our more recently ordained – Fr. James knows him well and assures me that Fr. Michael will make a great pastor for OLM.   I ask your prayers for Fr. Michael as OLM will be his first pastorate.  I also ask you to give him, as you have given me, your warm enthusiastic welcome and support!
 
— Fr. Don

February 19, 2022 | Weekly Update

February 19, 2022 | Weekly Update

“Devoted to the Works of the Lord”

. . . is the 2022 CMAA Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal theme this year. This weekend we hear from Father Don who is preaching at all the Mass times and encourages us to briefly hear from Bishop Hicks about our calling as a diocese, and parish to be “devoted to the works of the Lord.”  You can watch Bishop Hick’s short message to us below and read his reflection on the CMAA Report or at this link.
We hope to see you at the weekend Mass times or stop by and visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.

“Therefore, my beloved brothers and sisters, be firm, steadfast, always fully devoted to the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.”
—1 Corinthians 15:58

Did you miss Father James’ homily last week on love and how we are called to be sent out on mission?  See it below.


LOOKING AHEAD

Masks Are Recommended But Not Required effective 2/28
  • The Diocese of Joliet has revised its protocols and lifted restrictions effective 2/28. Here’s how they will be implemented at OLM

    1.     Mask wearing is optional for everyone, including liturgical ministers, except that anyone distributing Communion will be required to wear a mask when distributing Communion. Please be respectful of everyone’s personal choice whether or not to wear a mask.

    2.     Eucharistic ministers will continue to sanitize their hands before distributing Communion.

    3.     Communion on the tongue will continue with the current procedure. Please remember that those who wish to receive on the tongue must go to a priest, deacon, or seminarian (who will sanitize between each communicant), and those who do not wish to receive Communion behind someone who receives on the tongue can always go to a lay-minister.

    4.     For those with grave reasons for not attending Mass in-person, Communion in the parking lot will continue until Bishop Hicks revokes his COVID-dispensation from attending Mass, at which point the distribution of Communion in the parking lot will be discontinued. If you would like to be visited by a minister of care with Communion after this point, please contact our parish nurse Jolene LeRoy at 331-707-5380 or jolenel@olmercy.com.

    5.   Please remember that “The Sunday Eucharist is the foundation and confirmation of all Christian practice.” (CCC 2181) Thus, our livestream Masses, while a beautiful source of support for the homebound and evangelization through the internet, is only intended as a supplement but never a substitute for the real thing. We will continue livestreaming daily Masses, but always encourage you to come and encounter Jesus personally (rather than watching digitally) whenever possible.

Bishop Robert Barron, Fr James Mallon, & Nicky Gumbel; come to the in-person watch party to see their conversation on 3/1st
Invitation to Seniors to Defer Property Taxes apply by 3/1
  • Qualified senior citizens, aged 65 years and older are invited to apply for the Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Deferral Program. The program allows participants to defer property tax payment until the property is sold. The deferral is treated as a loan and accrues 6 percent simple interest until paid. To qualify, the applicant’s household income cannot exceed $55,000. Additionally, the property must be used exclusively for residential purposes. The application period closes on March 1, 2022. For more information, contact the DuPage County Treasurer’s Office at 630-407-5900 or www.dupageco.org/treasurer. Gwen Henry, Treasurer.
Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) Grants apply by 3/1
  • The Diocese of Joliet is accepting applications for 2022-2023 for Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) grant. Please mail in your application by 3/1st.
  • Qualifications and details of the application process can be found at this link.
  • The Campaign for Human Development is the domestic anti-poverty, social justice program of the U.S. Catholic Bishops. Its mission is to address the root causes of poverty in America through the promotion and support of community-controlled, self-help organizations and through transformative education. The grants and education for justice program of the Campaign, implemented in collaboration with local dioceses, is supported by the annual collection received each November.
Join us on Ash Wednesday 3/2
  • Begin Lent with us on Ash Wednesday 3/2nd and receive Ashes at either the 6:30am, 8am, 12pm (livestreamed), 6pm, 7:30pm Mass times or at the 5:30pm Scripture Service.
Alpha In-person starts 3/3
  • Are you looking for a renewal in faith during the upcoming Lent season, come to Alpha and encounter Jesus in a profound way!
  • Or who will you bring with you to in-person Alpha on 3/3rd?  Experience the Alpha culture if you have not had a chance already.  Alpha isn’t just a program. It’s a tool for evangelization. We all know people who are far away from the Lord, who may be asking questions about whether or not God even exists.
  • Details and registration are found at this link.
  • Invitations can be intimidating, so we want to make inviting your friends and family to Alpha as easy as possible. Read some tips that can help you invite anyone in your life to join us for Alpha! You can do it! We’re praying for you https://olmercy.com/alphainvitations/
Salt and Light Grow Group 3/9
  • Be loved & be fed; come and experience family, hospitality and intentional community at Salt and Light Grow Group.
  • We weren’t meant to do life alone. “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 (OLM) is responding to our missionary identity where we are called to help parishioners grow continually in discipleship.
    To follow Jesus is to commit to lifelong learning and growth. Like Jesus’ disciples, our walk with the Lord today is not one lived in isolation but rather one immersed in community and enriched by authentic friendship with others. At OLM and in the company of friends, Grow Groups provide a place of deep transformation where people can be known, loved, and cared for as they strive to deepen their friendship with Jesus and one another.
  • For more information, connect with Bob Maxwell our Salt and Light Grow Group Leader at bmaxwell@deltadentalil.com
  • Details and registration are found at this link.
Racism Awareness Zoom Workshop 3/12
  • Have you ever asked:  What really is racism?  How does it affect me?  How could I help make the world a little more accepting of all God’s children?
    The Anti-Racism Committee (ARC) of The Sisters of St. Francis of Mary Immaculate will be doing a free workshop open to all parishes of the Joliet Diocese via ZOOM on Saturday, March 12, 2022, from 10am to 12pm.  The committee is made up of a multicultural mix of Sisters and laypersons.  This well-done workshop is informative while treating this topic with the sensitivity it deserves.
    Details are on this flyer.  Just register via email to tpmarciani@gmail.com and the link for the workshop will be sent to you.
Parish Mission – Unbound 3/18 & 3/19
  • Proceed to this link for details and registration for the 2-day parish mission on Friday evening 3/18 from 6:30pm to 9:15pm and all day Saturday 3/19 from 9am to 8pm (catered lunch & dinner included)
  • Led by Father Burke Masters, Father Steven Borello, Father James Guarascio, and the Unbound Team!
  • These past two years have been a difficult time for us and we need a place to process what we’ve been through; from a number of things from our past or from our time during the lockdown, that we had either forgotten about or had never really dealt with.
    With this in mind and our vision of providing ways to encounter Jesus, grow as disciples, and experience more power for mission, our parish mission this year is an Unbound Conference. Looking forward to seeing you there.
  • Recommended reading prior to the conference is the “Unbound: A Practical Guide to Deliverance.”  The book is available in the parish office for $15, purchase a copy today and prepare your heart to be overwhelmed by the love of Jesus.
  • Please register soon.  The deadline is Sunday 3/13th.

St. Vincent de Paul Clothing Drive 3/19 & 3/20
  • Clear out your closets for a good cause!  Pick up a St. Vincent de Paul bag and bring it back on before and after the 4pm Mass on Saturday and on Sunday until noon.
  • The Clothing Drive 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. Unfortunately, NO TELEVISIONS.
An Ecumenical Chain-For-Life Event on 4/9
  • Register by 3/31st to join an ecumenical, prayerful, and silent pro-life event sponsored by St. Michael Catholic Church in Wheaton from 10:15am to 11:30am held at Compass Church parking lot.
  • Details and registration can be found here.
  • The media would have us believe that Pro-Life advocates are in the minority. The hope is to bring as many Pro-Life advocates as possible together in a large, visible way, to let others know who share a similar view, that they are not alone and certainly not in the minority.  We hope this will encourage them to speak out in their own way.  We also look to use this event to send a message to our Supreme Court (Dobb’s case decision is due this summer) and to our national, state, and local politicians, and to our broader communities, that we want an end to abortion.

Support Our Teens Going on the Mission Trip
  • Every moment we walk alongside a young person as they join in the work God is doing is an opportunity to affirm their purpose and celebrate their gifts.  You have the opportunity to walk alongside our teens in a simple and good way by supporting them financially to offset the costs of the Misson Trip, any dollar amount is helpful.
  • Drop your donation in a marked envelope into the offertory baskets during Mass or donate online through Our Sunday Visitor platform here: https://www.osvhub.com/olmercy/funds.
  • Please also keep our teens, parents, and volunteers in prayer, as they prepare for and go on the Mission Trip to serve at a neighborhood in need in Ohio in July.  In a special way let us pray for our teens for God to bless their quest for purpose, joining them in prayer on their journey to discover what God is doing in their lives.
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 to Christian values the government schools are indoctrinating the children who attend the government schools?  You’re not alone.
  • Join a growing number of OLM parents who have made the movement!  Consider connecting with some of the families who have made the move from 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 to schedule a personalized tour.  Or peruse their website to explore your interest.

Bishop Hicks’ Monthly Column

  • For February is now posted, it’s entitled “Kindness: the antidote to a cold heart” read it here.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word CLOW Volunteers
  • Every Sunday at the 10am Mass is the beautiful ministry of the Children’s Liturgy of the Word.  Do you love children and caring for them while they listen to the Gospel?  Please connect with Mary Jo Trapani maryjot@olmercy.com or Jean Palasz jeanp@olmercy.com to volunteer.
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 2020 over 120 people/families were provided assistance.
  • 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 at olmsvdp@gmail.com with your name and contact information.
Bulletin
  • Father Don spoke last week at all the Mass times about his health; he briefly speaks about it in his insightful weekly Bulletin article located here. 

Don’t Get Scammed by Fake Fathers!
  • Did you get an email or a text message from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.
For the Hispanic Community
  • Please proceed herefor 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.
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.


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.

 

February 12, 2022 | Weekly Update

February 12, 2022 | Weekly Update

“Sent on Mission”

Last week Father James continued his 3 part series on faith, hope, and love as a lens for better understanding our vision statement. Join us this weekend for the last part as he shares about what love is and how we are called to be sent on mission.

If you missed Father James’ homily last week or would like to reflect on the second part of our vision statement to prepare to hear the last part, watch it below.
Father James has an awesome surprise as you leave Mass this weekend wherein he is giving out OLM swag bags to those who can recite the vision statement, so here’s to seeing you soon!

“To offer every person a life-changing encounter with Jesus, grow disciples, and send them on mission.”
—Our Lady of Mercy Vision


LOOKING AHEAD

Open HEARTS Ministry 2/21
  • Open HEARTS Ministry is the mental and emotional health and wellness ministry of the parish. If you are a mental health professional or are a champion for mental health and wellness, please consider joining the ministry. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental and emotional health concerns, there is support and resources available at Our Lady of Mercy and in the community. The next scheduled in-person gathering for the Open HEARTS Ministry is Monday, February 21 from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 218.
MAGNIFY 2/23
  • Our monthly MAGNIFY adoration, praise and worship is on Weds 2/23rd @ 7pm. Save the date!

CRHP Christ Renews His Parish Women’s Weekends 2/26 – 2/27
  • The Renewal Weekends are just around the corner Men’s Renewal Weekend is on 2/19 thru 2/20. Women’s Renewal Weekend is on 2/26 thru 2/27
    The CRHP weekend is a time to relax, pray, discover new relationships, and improve your personal relationship with Jesus.
  • Proceed to this link for details and sign-up.  We pray you sign-up soon.  COVID safety notes: we follow the Diocesan Covid guidelines.
  • Connect with Lauren Baier @ 630.267.6868 crhpolm@gmail.com for questions on the Women’s CRHP weekend.
Bishop Robert Barron, Fr James Mallon, & Nicky Gumbel; come to the in-person watch party to see their conversation on 3/1st

Invitation to Seniors to Defer Property Taxes apply by 3/1
  • Qualified senior citizens, aged 65 years and older are invited to apply for the Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Deferral Program. The program allows participants to defer property tax payment until the property is sold. The deferral is treated as a loan and accrues 6 percent simple interest until paid. To qualify, the applicant’s household income cannot exceed $55,000. Additionally, the property must be used exclusively for residential purposes. The application period closes on March 1, 2022. For more information, contact the DuPage County Treasurer’s Office at 630-407-5900 or www.dupageco.org/treasurer. Gwen Henry, Treasurer.
Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) Grants apply by 3/1
  • The Diocese of Joliet is accepting applications for 2022-2023 for Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) grant. Please mail in your application by 3/1st.
  • Qualifications and details of the application process can be found at this link.
  • The Campaign for Human Development is the domestic anti-poverty, social justice program of the U.S. Catholic Bishops. Its mission is to address the root causes of poverty in America through the promotion and support of community-controlled, self-help organizations and through transformative education. The grants and education for justice program of the Campaign, implemented in collaboration with local dioceses, is supported by the annual collection received each November.
Alpha In-Person Starts 3/3
  • Who will you bring with you to in-person Alpha on 3/3rd?  Experience the Alpha culture if you have not had a chance already.  Alpha isn’t just a program. It’s a tool for evangelization. We all know people who are far away from the Lord, who may be asking questions about whether or not God even exists.
  • Details and registration are found at this link.
  • Invitations can be intimidating, so we want to make inviting your friends and family to Alpha as easy as possible. Read some tips that can help you invite anyone in your life to join us for Alpha!  You can do it! We’re praying for you https://olmercy.com/alphainvitations/
Salt and Light Grow Group 3/9
  • Be loved & be fed; come and experience family, hospitality, and intentional community at Salt and Light Grow Group.
  • We weren’t meant to do life alone. “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 (OLM) is responding to our missionary identity where we are called to help parishioners grow continually in discipleship.
    To follow Jesus is to commit to lifelong learning and growth. Like Jesus’ disciples, our walk with the Lord today is not one lived in isolation but rather one immersed in community and enriched by authentic friendship with others. At OLM and in the company of friends, Grow Groups provide a place of deep transformation where people can be known, loved, and cared for as they strive to deepen their friendship with Jesus and one another.
  • For more information, connect with Bob Maxwell our Salt and Light Grow Group Leader at bmaxwell@deltadentalil.com
  • Details and registration are found at this link.
Parish Mission – Unbound 3/18 & 3/19
  • Save the dates for our 2 day parish mission on Friday evening 3/18 from 6:30pm to 9:15pm and all day Saturday 3/19 from 9am to 8pm (catered lunch & dinner included)
  • Led by Father Burke Masters, Father Steven Borello, and our very own Father James Guarascio! 
    Please keep an eye out for further details on the talks and registration (to help us in the materials and catering).
  • These past two years have been a difficult time for us and we need a place to process what we’ve been through; from a number of things from our past or from our time during the lockdown,/pandemic these past 2 years, that we had either forgotten about or had never really dealt with.  With this in mind and our vision of providing ways to encounter Jesus, grow as disciples, and experience more power for mission, our parish mission this year is an Unbound Conference. Looking forward to seeing you there.
  • Registration links will be released sometime this coming week. Please keep an eye out for the App Blast that will notify you when it is live.  Don’t have the myParish App yet?  Download it here for iPhone and Android smartphones. Or text APP to 88202 to download.

St. Vincent de Paul Clothing Drive 3/19 & 3/20
  • Clear out your closets for a good cause!  Pick up a St. Vincent de Paul bag and bring it back on before and after the 4pm Mass on Saturday and on Sunday until noon.
  • The Clothing Drive 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. Unfortunately, NO TELEVISIONS.
2022 Knights of Columbus Free Throw Champions
  • The Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus Council #12005 would like to congratulate the following winners of our free throw competition held January 22, 2022 at the Our Lady of Mercy Parish Life Center:
    • Gabriella Curcio.         Neto Akpuokwe
      Grace Grunloh            Daniel Callinan
  • We congratulate Gabriella, Grace, and Daniel who also moved on from the District competition, and wish them the best of luck as they will be representing our council and district at the Regional competition which will be held in March. We thank all the kids that came out for a fun morning of competition. Congratulation once again.
Support Our Teens Going on the Mission Trip
  • Every moment we walk alongside a young person as they join in the work God is doing is an opportunity to affirm their purpose and celebrate their gifts.  You have the opportunity to walk alongside our teens in a simple and good way by supporting them financially to offset the costs of the Misson Trip, any dollar amount is helpful.
  • Drop your donation in a marked envelope into the offertory baskets during Mass or donate online through Our Sunday Visitor platform here: https://www.osvhub.com/olmercy/funds.
  • Please also keep our teens, parents, and volunteers in prayer, as they prepare for and go on the Mission Trip to serve at a neighborhood in need in Ohio in July.  In a special way let us pray for our teens for God to bless their quest for purpose, joining them in prayer on their journey to discover what God is doing in their lives.
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 to Christian values the government schools are indoctrinating the children who attend the government schools?  You’re not alone.
  • Join a growing number of OLM parents who have made the movement!  Consider connecting with some of the families who have made the move from 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 to schedule a personalized tour.  Or peruse their website to explore your interest.


Bishop Hicks’ Monthly Column

  • For February is now posted, it’s entitled “Kindness: the antidote to a cold heart” read it here.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word CLOW Volunteers
  • Every Sunday at the 10am Mass is the beautiful ministry of the Children’s Liturgy of the Word.  Do you love children and caring for them while they listen to the Gospel?  Please connect with Mary Jo Trapani maryjot@olmercy.com or Jean Palasz jeanp@olmercy.com to volunteer.

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 2020 over 120 people/families were provided assistance.
  • 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 at olmsvdp@gmail.com with your name and contact information.
Bulletin
  • Read Father Don’s insightful weekly Bulletin article located here. 
AMA with Father James

Don’t Get Scammed by Fake Fathers!
  • Did you get an email or a text message from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.
For the Hispanic Community
  • Please proceed herefor 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 be praying 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 at 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.


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.

Registration links will be released sometime this coming week.  Please keep an eye out for the App Blast that will notify you when it is live.

Don’t have the myParish App yet?  Download it here for iPhone and Android smartphones. Or text APP to 88202 to download.

 

February 5, 2022 | Weekly Update

February 5, 2022 | Weekly Update

“Grow Disciples”

Last week Father James started a 3 part series on faith, hope, and love as a lens for better understanding our vision statement. Join us this weekend for part two as he shares about what hope is and how we can grow as Jesus’ disciples

If you missed Father James’ homily last week or would like to reflect on the first part of our vision statement to prepare to hear the second part, watch it below.

See you soon at the weekend Mass times or stop by and visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.

“To offer every person a life-changing encounter with Jesus, grow disciples, and send them on mission.”
—Our Lady of Mercy Vision


LOOKING AHEAD

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 2/15
  • All are invited to attend the in-person St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday, February 15 in the church after the 6:30pm Mass (at 7pm) with Deacon Tony Leazzo and Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care.
  • St. Peregrine is the patron saint of the sick, especially those experiencing cancer, serious illness, or chronic illness. Anyone experiencing physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual health concerns would benefit from attending the prayer service. The relic of St. Peregrine will be present.
Mobile Food Pantry 2/16
  • The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds Feb 19th, please note the time change of 4:30pm to 6:00pm.  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 food during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please clear space in your trunk or backseat so volunteers can load boxes of food directly into your vehicle. Catholic Charities helps people of all faiths and beliefs. Mobile Food Pantries take place snow or shine!
CRHP Christ Renews His Parish Men’s and Women’s Weekends 2/19 – 2/20 & 2/26 – 2/27
  • The weekends are just around the corner, come and be uplifted and strengthened at the Renewal Weekends: Men’s Renewal Weekend is on 2/19 thru 2/20. Women’s Renewal Weekend is on 2/26 thru 2/27,
  • Proceed to this link for details and sign-up.  We pray you sign-up soon.  COVID safety notes: we follow the Diocesan Covid guidelines.
  • Connect with Kevin Nemetz @ 630.301.2312 Kevin@tix4cause.com, Brian Cancio @ 847.571.6358 or Lauren Baier @ 630.267.6868 crhpolm@gmail.com for any questiions.
Open HEARTS Ministry 2/21
  • Open HEARTS Ministry is the mental and emotional health and wellness ministry of the parish. If you are a mental health professional or are a champion for mental health and wellness, please consider joining the ministry. If you or someone you know is experiencing mental and emotional health concerns, there is support and resources available at Our Lady of Mercy and in the community. The next scheduled in-person gathering for the Open HEARTS Ministry is Monday, February 21 from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 218.
MAGNIFY 2/23
  • Our monthly MAGNIFY adoration, praise and worship is on Weds 2/23rd @ 7pm. Save the date!
Invitation to Seniors to Defer Property Taxes apply by 3/1
  • Qualified senior citizens, aged 65 years and older are invited to apply for the Senior Citizen Real Estate Tax Deferral Program. The program allows participants to defer property tax payment until the property is sold. The deferral is treated as a loan and accrues 6 percent simple interest until paid. To qualify, the applicant’s household income cannot exceed $55,000. Additionally, the property must be used exclusively for residential purposes. The application period closes on March 1, 2022. For more information, contact the DuPage County Treasurer’s Office at 630-407-5900 or www.dupageco.org/treasurer. Gwen Henry, Treasurer.
Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) Grants apply by 3/1
  • The Diocese of Joliet is accepting applications for 2022-2023 for Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) grant. Please mail in your application by 3/1st.
  • Qualifications and details of the application process can be found at this link.
  • The Campaign for Human Development is the domestic anti-poverty, social justice program of the U.S. Catholic Bishops. Its mission is to address the root causes of poverty in America through the promotion and support of community-controlled, self-help organizations and through transformative education. The grants and education for justice program of the Campaign, implemented in collaboration with local dioceses, is supported by the annual collection received each November.
Alpha in-person starts 3/3
  • Who will you bring with you to in-person Alpha on 3/3rd?  Experience the Alpha culture if you have not had a chance already.  Alpha isn’t just a program. It’s a tool for evangelization. We all know people who are far away from the Lord, who may be asking questions about whether or not God even exists.
  • Details and registration are found at this link.
  • Invitations can be intimidating, so we want to make inviting your friends and family to Alpha as easy as possible. Read some tips that can help you invite anyone in your life to join us for Alpha!  You can do it! We’re praying for you https://olmercy.com/alphainvitations/
Salt and Light Grow Group 3/9
  • Be loved & be fed; come and experience family, hospitality, and intentional community at Salt and Light Grow Group.
  • We weren’t meant to do life alone. “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 (OLM) is responding to our missionary identity where we are called to help parishioners grow continually in discipleship.
    To follow Jesus is to commit to lifelong learning and growth. Like Jesus’ disciples, our walk with the Lord today is not one lived in isolation but rather one immersed in community and enriched by authentic friendship with others. At OLM and in the company of friends, Grow Groups provide a place of deep transformation where people can be known, loved, and cared for as they strive to deepen their friendship with Jesus and one another.
  • For more information, connect with Bob Maxwell our Salt and Light Grow Group Leader at bmaxwell@deltadentalil.com
  • Details and registration are found at this link.
Parish Mission – Unbound 3/18 & 3/19
  • Save the dates for our 2 day parish mission on Friday evening 3/18 from 6:30pm to 9:15pm and all day Saturday 3/19 from 9am to 8pm (catered lunch & dinner included)
  • Led by Father Burke Masters, Father Steven Borello, and our very own Father James Guarascio! 
    Please keep an eye out for further details on the talks and registration (to help us in the materials and catering).
  • These past two years have been a difficult time for us and we need a place to process what we’ve been through; from a number of things from our past or from our time during the lockdown, that we had either forgotten about or had never really dealt with.  With this in mind and our vision of providing ways to encounter Jesus, grow as disciples, and experience more power for mission, our parish mission this year is an Unbound Conference. Looking forward to seeing you there.

Bishop Hicks’ Monthly Column
  • For January is now posted, it’s entitled “A New Year’s resolution: Re-educating ourselves on the Eucharist” read it here.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word CLOW Volunteers
  • Every Sunday at the 10am Mass is the beautiful ministry of the Children’s Liturgy of the Word.  Do you love children and caring for them while they listen to the Gospel?  Please connect with Mary Jo Trapani maryjot@olmercy.com or Jean Palasz jeanp@olmercy.com to volunteer.
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 2020 over 120 people/families were provided assistance.
  • 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 at olmsvdp@gmail.com with your name and contact information.
Bulletin
  • Read Father Don’s insightful weekly Bulletin article located here. 
Check out the January AMA with Father James
  • Checking-in, A Near-Death Experience, Is cohabitation sinful? – these are just some of the items we covered at the January AMA with Father James.
  • If you click on the YouTube description, it itemizes all the questions and talking points with the time stamp so you can jump ahead if you wish.
  • We will be hosting Father Don at a future AMA, do you have a question for him or both of them? Submit your question here!

Don’t Get Scammed by Fake Fathers!
  • Did you get an email or a text message from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.
For the Hispanic Community
  • Please proceed herefor 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 be praying 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 at 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.


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.

Mass Times

Weekend

Saturday 8:30AM Daily Mass and 4PM Sunday Vigil

Sunday 8AM | 10AM  | 12PM | 5:30PM

Weekdays

Monday 8AM
Monday in Spanish 6:30PM
Tuesday 8AM & 6:30PM
Wednesday 12PM
Thursday 6:30AM & 8AM
Friday 12PM
Saturday 8:30AM

Confession

Tuesdays 7PM until all are heard
Wednesdays 12:30PM until all are heard

Fridays 12:30PM
Saturday 9AM – 10AM | 1:30PM – 2:30PM

During Magnify last Weds of the month 7PM – 8:30PM
Or please schedule an appointment here.

Eucharistic Adoration

Monday through Friday 8:30AM – 10PM
Magnify last Weds of the month 7PM – 8:30PM

Private Prayer in Church

Open daily 8:30AM – 8PM
(Will close if there is a Funeral, Wedding, or Baptism as well as early closing when the safety and security are at risk as determined by the pastor.)

Quick Links

Online Giving

Staff

Bulletin Archive

Submit Prayer Intention

Funeral Announcements

Stay Connected – Sign up to receive parish news

Calendar

WVHS Student Parking Information Application

Catholic Schools in the Area

Daily Mass Readings

Shalom World TV

Location

701 S. Eola Road
Aurora, IL 60504

Parish Office

(630) 851-3444

Monday thru Thursday
8:30AM – 4PM

Friday
8:30AM – 1PM

Contact Us

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

 

©2024 Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church | Aurora, IL
Made with ♥ by Diocesan