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!
. . . 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.
THIS COMING WEEK
OLM Swag Bags 2/19 & 2/20
There is a handful of OLM Swag Bags left. What is inside you may wonder? There is a Car Magnet Decal (“Come Worship Jesus @ Our Lady of Mercy), a postcard of our discipleship “OLM Game Plan”, and a flyer you can place on your refrigerator of our encounter Jesus gatherings. Brush up on our vision statement and receive your OLM Swag Bag!
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, 2/21 from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 218.
MAGNIFY 2/23
Our monthly MAGNIFY is on Weds 2/23rd @ 7pm. Encounter Jesus through scriptural reflection, adoration, praise, worship, confessions, and prayer ministry. Deacon Tom Logue will be giving the scriptural reflection; save the date!
Synodal Encounter between Pope Francis & University Students 2/24
Join us at this historic watch party on 2/24th @ 11:45am in the Parish Life Center. Loyola University Chicago in partnership with the Holy See will host a historic synodal encounter between POPE FRANCIS and university students from North, Central, and South America to address important issues facing the Church and the world in our times.
Then stay for the conversation!
Following the watch-party, from 1:30pm to 3pm, the Synodal Process Sub-committee at OLM invites you to participate in a SYNODAL CONVERSATION to voice your dreams, ideas, and concerns in preparation for Synod 2023. A light lunch will be served.
Last month’s AMA was pretty awesome, we learned so much from the All Saints Students’ questions as well as yours! Thank you for submitting them! Do you have a question for Father James? Submit your question here! We’ve been learning so much from them, come and see if he answers your question this Friday 2/25th at 1:15pm, subscribe to our YouTube to get an alert of the livestream.
CRHP Christ Renews His Parish Women’s Weekends 2/26 – 2/27
Next week is the Women’s Renewal Weekend on 2/26 thru 2/27. Whether you want to connect with other women in the parish, improve your prayer life, or just take a break from the craziness of your every day to have fun and not have to cook or clean, you will find what you are looking for—and more.
Connect with Lauren Baier @ 630.267.6868 crhpolm@gmail.com for questions on the Women’s CRHP weekend.
Prayer Ministry 2/26 & 2/27
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.
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.
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
It’s looking to be an awesome turnout! Join 33 attendees thus far an in-person watch party featuring a live conversation with Bishop Robert Barron, Father James Mallon, and Nicky Gumbel on What Is God Saying to the Church?
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.orgto 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.
GROW GROUPS | WE CONTINUE TO LAUNCH GROW GROUPS, ONE GROUP AT A TIME Connect withzara@olmercy.comfor any questions.
Mission. This group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints. Website. Proceed here for details. Meets. Tuesdays @ 7pm and twice a month for social gatherings. Connect. Reach out to Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com See what they have been up to at this video.
Mission. Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce. Website. Proceed here for details
Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings. Connect. The group leaders are looking forward to hearing from you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them.
Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com
Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com
Check out the video to find out more about Vine and Branches
Mission. A Mother’s Heart is a group for Catholic mothers with children ages 0-11 who are seeking to journey with other like-minded women of faith. Following the example of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, we strive to imitate her “little way” of growing in holiness through the lenses of motherhood and family. Website. Proceed here for details.
Meets. Thursdays twice a month. For any of the following: book chats, podcast discussions, “Mom’s Night Out”, community service projects, fellowship, playgroups, prayer. Please join them and register ahead of time for this month’s gatherings with Lydia Schmit Connect. Reach out to Lydia Schmitt lydiadschmitt@gmail.com for any questions.
SALT AND LIGHT GROW GROUP Mission. “Encounter/Grow/Witness” is the threefold dimension of the Christian life. Once we encounter Jesus, we are then called to grow daily as His disciples. Grow Groups are one way Our Lady of Mercy is responding to our missionary identity where we are called to help parishioners grow continually in discipleship.
Connect. For more information, connect with Bob Maxwell at bmaxwell@deltadentalil.com or 630-962-8464
GROW YOUR FAITH FREE ONLINE RESOURCES In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.
BIBLE CONFERENCE ON THE ROSARY AND THE WORD OF GOD
Learn the Biblical backing of the 20 mysteries of the rosary and get more out of this powerful prayer on February 25 – 27. Register for free here.
FORMED.ORG
Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any internet-connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, and studies… there is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.
Check out our “Eucharist Resources” page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives and the great Feast of Corpus Christi.
AMEN – CATHOLIC MEDITATION APP
From Augustine Institutecomes this NEW & FREE Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture. There is also Family Content: Enjoy and share family-favorite audio from the series Brother Francis and the Jesus Stories. Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.
HALLOW – A CATHOLIC PRAYER & MEDITATION APP
Hallow is a Catholic prayer & meditation app that helps users deepen their relationship with God through contemplative prayer and strengthen one’s mental health in the process. Easy-to-use, audio-guided sessions anywhere from 1 to 60 minutes long. Pray your own way with a personalized prayer plan pulling from 3,000+ unique sessions including the Lectio Divina on the Daily Gospel, Rosary, Examen, Night Prayer, Calm & Humility “Praylists” and much more. Hallow Light is free. Hallow Plus is $5 per month ($60 per year). Sign up for either one here.
WORD ON FIRE
Did you know that you have complete access to Bishop Barron’s Word on Fire ENGAGE video library! Check out this linkto watch any of the videos whenever you want without ever having to login.
HEROIC MEN
Looking for authentically Catholic content for men? Look no further than HeroicMen.com—the all-new, 100% FREE Catholic streaming platform for men.
Learn about your faith from today’s best Catholic speakers—and do it all from the convenience of home. Stream-on-demand from your phone or tablet, too, for quality Catholic content on the go.
Have you wanted to get to know St. Thomas Aquinas and his writings more so as to grow closer to Jesus? Sign up for any of the short and free courses at Aquinas 101 a project of the Thomistic Institute seeks to promote understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the eminent 13th-century philosopher, and theologian.
Aquinas is a masterful interpreter of reality. His writings assist us in answering perennial questions on topics like God, man, the natural world, law, and morality, and questions of special relevance to our time like the relationship between modern science and faith or pursuing happiness in the digital era.
AMA WITH FATHER JAMES
We’ve learned so much through the questions you asked! Thank you for submitting them. Let’s continue to learn together as Father James answers more of your questions. Watch them here or submit any questions you may have!
PASTORAL CARE If you have physical, mental, emotional or spiritual health concerns or questions about end-of-life issues, funeral planning, journeying through grief, caregiving for a loved one or are homebound, please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care for support and resources at jolenel@olmercy.com or 331-707-5380.
OPEN HEARTS MINISTRY
There will not be a gathering in December for the Open HEARTS Ministry. If you are in need of emotional or mental health support or resources, please contact Janice Hurtado Aeppli at 321-217- 7872 or at olmopenhearts@yahoo.com
RESTORE
Do you find yourself struggling in overcoming your battle with pornography? Restore is a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas as to how to strengthen our resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of pornography addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day.
If you are ready to start breaking free from the grips of pornography and want to Restore your life email us at Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet.
Last week Father James continued his 3 part series on faith, hope, and loveas 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
THIS COMING WEEK
OLM Swag Bags 2/12 & 2/13
What’s in the OLM Swag Bag you may wonder? You will receive a Car Magnet Decal (“Come Worship Jesus @ Our Lady of Mercy), a postcard of our discipleship “OLM Game Plan”, and a flyer you can place on your refrigerator of our encounter Jesus gatherings. So make sure you brush up on our vision statement so you can receive your OLM Swag Bag!
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 Weekend 2/19 – 2/20
It’s not too late to sign up for the Men’s Renewal Weekend on Saturday 2/19 and Sunday 2/20. This yearly special opportunity is life-changing.
The CRHP weekend is a time to relax, pray, discover new relationships, and improve your personal relationship with Jesus.
Connect with Kevin Nemetz @ 630.301.2312 Kevin@tix4cause.com, Brian Cancio @ 847.571.6358
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.
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
Join us for an in-person watch party featuring a live conversation with Bishop Robert Barron, Father James Mallon, and Nicky Gumbel on What Is God Saying to the Church?
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.
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.
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
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.orgto 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
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.
GROW GROUPS | WE CONTINUE TO LAUNCH GROW GROUPS, ONE GROUP AT A TIME Connect withzara@olmercy.comfor any questions.
Mission. This group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints. Website. Proceed here for details. Meets. Tuesdays @ 7pm and twice a month for social gatherings. Connect. Reach out to Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com See what they have been up to at this video.
Mission. Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce. Website. Proceed here for details
Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings. Connect. The group leaders are looking forward to hearing from you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them.
Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com
Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com
Check out the video to find out more about Vine and Branches
Mission. A Mother’s Heart is a group for Catholic mothers with children ages 0-11 who are seeking to journey with other like-minded women of faith. Following the example of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, we strive to imitate her “little way” of growing in holiness through the lenses of motherhood and family. Website. Proceed here for details.
Meets. Thursdays twice a month. For any of the following: book chats, podcast discussions, “Mom’s Night Out”, community service projects, fellowship, playgroups, prayer. Please join them and register ahead of time for this month’s gatherings with Lydia Schmit Connect. Reach out to Lydia Schmitt lydiadschmitt@gmail.com for any questions.
SALT AND LIGHT GROW GROUP Mission. “Encounter/Grow/Witness” is the threefold dimension of the Christian life. Once we encounter Jesus, we are then called to grow daily as His disciples. Grow Groups are one way Our Lady of Mercy is responding to our missionary identity where we are called to help parishioners grow continually in discipleship.
Connect. For more information, connect with Bob Maxwell at bmaxwell@deltadentalil.com or 630-962-8464
GROW YOUR FAITH FREE ONLINE RESOURCES In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.
BIBLE CONFERENCE ON THE ROSARY AND THE WORD OF GOD
Learn the Biblical backing of the 20 mysteries of the rosary and get more out of this powerful prayer on February 25 – 27. Register for free here.
FORMED.ORG
Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any internet-connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, and studies… there is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.
Check out our “Eucharist Resources” page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives and the great Feast of Corpus Christi.
AMEN – CATHOLIC MEDITATION APP
From Augustine Institutecomes this NEW & FREE Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture. There is also Family Content: Enjoy and share family-favorite audio from the series Brother Francis and the Jesus Stories. Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.
HALLOW – A CATHOLIC PRAYER & MEDITATION APP
Hallow is a Catholic prayer & meditation app that helps users deepen their relationship with God through contemplative prayer and strengthen one’s mental health in the process. Easy-to-use, audio-guided sessions anywhere from 1 to 60 minutes long. Pray your own way with a personalized prayer plan pulling from 3,000+ unique sessions including the Lectio Divina on the Daily Gospel, Rosary, Examen, Night Prayer, Calm & Humility “Praylists” and much more. Hallow Light is free. Hallow Plus is $5 per month ($60 per year). Sign up for either one here.
WORD ON FIRE
Did you know that you have complete access to Bishop Barron’s Word on Fire ENGAGE video library! Check out this linkto watch any of the videos whenever you want without ever having to login.
HEROIC MEN
Looking for authentically Catholic content for men? Look no further than HeroicMen.com—the all-new, 100% FREE Catholic streaming platform for men.
Learn about your faith from today’s best Catholic speakers—and do it all from the convenience of home. Stream-on-demand from your phone or tablet, too, for quality Catholic content on the go.
Have you wanted to get to know St. Thomas Aquinas and his writings more so as to grow closer to Jesus? Sign up for any of the short and free courses at Aquinas 101 a project of the Thomistic Institute seeks to promote understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the eminent 13th-century philosopher, and theologian.
Aquinas is a masterful interpreter of reality. His writings assist us in answering perennial questions on topics like God, man, the natural world, law, and morality, and questions of special relevance to our time like the relationship between modern science and faith or pursuing happiness in the digital era.
AMA WITH FATHER JAMES
We’ve learned so much through the questions you asked! Thank you for submitting them. Let’s continue to learn together as Father James answers more of your questions. Watch them here or submit any questions you may have!
PASTORAL CARE If you have physical, mental, emotional or spiritual health concerns or questions about end-of-life issues, funeral planning, journeying through grief, caregiving for a loved one or are homebound, please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care for support and resources at jolenel@olmercy.com or 331-707-5380.
OPEN HEARTS MINISTRY
There will not be a gathering in December for the Open HEARTS Ministry. If you are in need of emotional or mental health support or resources, please contact Janice Hurtado Aeppli at 321-217- 7872 or at olmopenhearts@yahoo.com
RESTORE
Do you find yourself struggling in overcoming your battle with pornography? Restore is a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas as to how to strengthen our resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of pornography addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day.
If you are ready to start breaking free from the grips of pornography and want to Restore your life email us at Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet.
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
THIS COMING WEEK
Bible Studies Launching this next two weeks
One of these Five Bible Studies could be the perfect fit for you.
On MONDAYS is the following
Walking With Purpose Women’s Bible Study which will go through the study called “Ordering Your Priorities” an immensely practical women’s Bible Study that will help you put the most important things first.
Bishop Barron’s “The Creed”takes you into the depths of the Nicene Creed.
Spanish Bible Studyon Ascension Press“Discovering the Mystery of the Bible”
On TUESDAYS will be the Ascension Press Bible Study “Epic: A Journey Through Church History”
And then on WEDNESDAYS is Ascension Press Bible Study“The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation”
Details and registration are found on this link. Be nourished by the Word of God at any of these Bible Studies!
Supporting our Teens Going on the Mission Trip 2/5 & 2/6
Our Mission Trip 2nd collection is taking place this weekend. Please help support our high school teens on their trip. Donations are accepted online through our giving program or you may get a donation envelope in the narthex. Our teens and families thank you for your support.
Be a Part of the Synodal Church 2/5, 2/7, 2/8
In October 2021, Pope Francis has called the Church – you, me, Bishop Hicks, in other words, all the baptized into Synod, with the theme “For a Synodal Church –Communion/Participation/Mission” into a global “listening tour.” He also invites the world – believers, non-believers, the marginalized, the poor, the disenfranchised – to participate and talk about how the Church is living out its communion, participation, and mission. The aim of the Synod is to discern how we are “living the faith” and how, we as a Church, are achieving this together.
We look forward to your participation; come and help build up the body of Christ by taking part in one of the following 4 ways.
1. Fill out this online questionnaireby Jan 30 or
2. Fill out a paper questionnaire (these forms will be available through March 3).
3. Participate in one of the following in-person listening sessions. Please register ahead of time at this link https://bit.ly/RegisterforListeningSession
Saturday, February 5th from 1:30pm to 3:30pm or
Monday, February 7th from 9:00am to 11:00am or
Tuesday, February 8th from 7:00pm to 9:00pm (this Tuesday listening session has an online Zoom counterpart for those that can’t take part in person)
4. Please don’t forget to invite others, a neighbor, a friend, a co-worker, someone you know who is from a different faith.
____
To access any of the synod information and videos such as Father Don’s homily and a conversation with him on the listening process, go to https://olmercy.com/synod/
Eucharistic Adoration 2/7, 2/9, & 2/10
Need the warmth of Jesus during these cold snowy days?
Come bask in the warmth of Jesus’ love at Eucharistic Adoration on Mondays & Thursdays 8:30am to 6pm and Wednesdays 8am to 12pm
Do you work from home? Consider taking a break and spend time with Jesus, come and share what’s weighing on your heart with Him.
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,
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.
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.
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
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.
GROW GROUPS | WE CONTINUE TO LAUNCH GROW GROUPS, ONE GROUP AT A TIME Connect withzara@olmercy.comfor any questions.
Mission. This group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints. Website. Proceed here for details. Meets. Tuesdays @ 7pm and twice a month for social gatherings. Connect. Reach out to Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com See what they have been up to at this video.
Mission. Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce. Website. Proceed here for details
Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings. Connect. The group leaders are looking forward to hearing from you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them.
Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com
Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com
Check out the video to find out more about Vine and Branches
Mission. A Mother’s Heart is a group for Catholic mothers with children ages 0-11 who are seeking to journey with other like-minded women of faith. Following the example of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, we strive to imitate her “little way” of growing in holiness through the lenses of motherhood and family. Website. Proceed here for details.
Meets. Thursdays twice a month. For any of the following: book chats, podcast discussions, “Mom’s Night Out”, community service projects, fellowship, playgroups, prayer. Please join them and register ahead of time for this month’s gatherings with Lydia Schmit Connect. Reach out to Lydia Schmitt lydiadschmitt@gmail.com for any questions.
SALT AND LIGHT GROW GROUP Mission. “Encounter/Grow/Witness” is the threefold dimension of the Christian life. Once we encounter Jesus, we are then called to grow daily as His disciples. Grow Groups are one way Our Lady of Mercy is responding to our missionary identity where we are called to help parishioners grow continually in discipleship.
Connect. For more information, connect with Bob Maxwell at bmaxwell@deltadentalil.com or 630-962-8464
GROW YOUR FAITH FREE ONLINE RESOURCES In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.
BIBLE CONFERENCE ON THE ROSARY AND THE WORD OF GOD
Learn the Biblical backing of the 20 mysteries of the rosary and get more out of this powerful prayer on February 25 – 27. Register for free here.
FORMED.ORG
Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any internet-connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, and studies… there is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.
Check out our “Eucharist Resources” page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives and the great Feast of Corpus Christi.
AMEN – CATHOLIC MEDITATION APP
From Augustine Institutecomes this NEW & FREE Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture. There is also Family Content: Enjoy and share family-favorite audio from the series Brother Francis and the Jesus Stories. Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.
HALLOW – A CATHOLIC PRAYER & MEDITATION APP
Hallow is a Catholic prayer & meditation app that helps users deepen their relationship with God through contemplative prayer and strengthen one’s mental health in the process. Easy-to-use, audio-guided sessions anywhere from 1 to 60 minutes long. Pray your own way with a personalized prayer plan pulling from 3,000+ unique sessions including the Lectio Divina on the Daily Gospel, Rosary, Examen, Night Prayer, Calm & Humility “Praylists” and much more. Hallow Light is free. Hallow Plus is $5 per month ($60 per year). Sign up for either one here.
WORD ON FIRE
Did you know that you have complete access to Bishop Barron’s Word on Fire ENGAGE video library! Check out this linkto watch any of the videos whenever you want without ever having to login.
HEROIC MEN
Looking for authentically Catholic content for men? Look no further than HeroicMen.com—the all-new, 100% FREE Catholic streaming platform for men.
Learn about your faith from today’s best Catholic speakers—and do it all from the convenience of home. Stream-on-demand from your phone or tablet, too, for quality Catholic content on the go.
Have you wanted to get to know St. Thomas Aquinas and his writings more so as to grow closer to Jesus? Sign up for any of the short and free courses at Aquinas 101 a project of the Thomistic Institute seeks to promote understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the eminent 13th-century philosopher, and theologian.
Aquinas is a masterful interpreter of reality. His writings assist us in answering perennial questions on topics like God, man, the natural world, law, and morality, and questions of special relevance to our time like the relationship between modern science and faith or pursuing happiness in the digital era.
AMA WITH FATHER JAMES
We’ve learned so much through the questions you asked! Thank you for submitting them. Let’s continue to learn together as Father James answers more of your questions. Watch them here or submit any questions you may have!
PASTORAL CARE If you have physical, mental, emotional or spiritual health concerns or questions about end-of-life issues, funeral planning, journeying through grief, caregiving for a loved one or are homebound, please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care for support and resources at jolenel@olmercy.com or 331-707-5380.
OPEN HEARTS MINISTRY
There will not be a gathering in December for the Open HEARTS Ministry. If you are in need of emotional or mental health support or resources, please contact Janice Hurtado Aeppli at 321-217- 7872 or at olmopenhearts@yahoo.com
RESTORE
Do you find yourself struggling in overcoming your battle with pornography? Restore is a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas as to how to strengthen our resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of pornography addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day.
If you are ready to start breaking free from the grips of pornography and want to Restore your life email us at Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet.
This weekend is the Sunday of the Word of God; according to Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter, it “is to be devoted to the celebration, study, and dissemination of the Word of God.” So let’s ponder briefly about the Bible as we prepare our hearts for Holy Mass this weekend.
In the 4th century, the Church assembled the “Canon of Scripture,” through much open and honest examination of the authenticity of many existing texts, ultimately selecting 46 books in the Old Testament and 27 in the New.
Catholics believe that while the books of the Bible were written by humans over many centuries, it contains the inspired word of God. And the Holy Spirit inspired the creation of the Canon as well.
Uncover the strong, biblical focus of the Catholic Church in the short video on the Flocknote email with Word on Fire Institute Fellow Matt Nelson.
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.
“One does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes forth from the mouth of God.”
THIS COMING WEEK
Bible Studies Sign-Ups Launch 1/22 & 1/23
On this Word of God Sunday weekend, we are launching the sign-ups for Five Bible Studies that takes place in the evenings.
On MONDAYS is the following
Walking With Purpose Women’s Bible Study which will go through the study called “Ordering Your Priorities” an immensely practical women’s Bible Study that will help you put the most important things first.
Bishop Barron’s “The Creed”takes you into the depths of the Nicene Creed.
Spanish Bible Studyon Ascension Press“Discovering the Mystery of the Bible”
On TUESDAYS will be the Ascension Press Bible Study “Epic: A Journey Through Church History”
And then on WEDNESDAYS is Ascension Press Bible Study“The Bible Timeline: The Story of Salvation”
Details and registration are found on this link. Be nourished by the Word of God at any of these Bible Studies!
Collection for Church in Latin America 1/22 – 1/23
Soon our diocese will take up the Collection for the Church in Latin America. This national collection supports many pastoral projects that benefit the faithful in Latin America and the Caribbean. An important fact that you must know is that 25% of this diocesan collection goes to support our own diocesan mission work. Since 1994 our diocese has sent missioners to Sucre, Bolivia to not only offer our support with concrete actions, but to build relationships with the people who are so grateful for our presence and work there. We are blessed to have our Bolivian friends. Let us all become missionaries by strengthening the Church in Latin America with a donation to the second collection this weekend.
MAGNIFY 1/26
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior, for He has looked upon His handmaid’s lowliness; behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed. The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is His name.” (Luke 1:46-49)
What a beautiful hymn of praise to God. Mary recognizes she is lowly. So are we! And yet, through her perfect co-operation with God’s grace she will become loved and lauded until the end of time. There is the lesson for us.
In praising God, we reflect, we magnify, we radiate, we share in God’s great plan for His universe and all creation – you and I included. There lies the path to happiness as well as to Heaven.
Come, let us praise Him at Magnify! Starts at 7pm through 8:30pm with Scriptural Reflection from Father James, Confessions, Adoration, and Praise, and Prayer Ministry.
Exploring the Priesthood Weekend at Mundelein Seminary 1/28 – 1/30
The Exploring the Priesthood Weekend at Mundelein Seminary is an “open house” to give men Junior in College and older an opportunity to learn about Mundelein Seminary and to hear about the priesthood. Private room and meals included. There is no cost for the weekend.
Recall Father Steve’s homily in late August (found here) where he gives us reason to stop and consider asking those we know who would make wonderful fathers and mothers if they have ever given serious consideration to the joy of being with Jesus as a spiritual father or spiritual mother through the priesthood and religious life? Know of men Junior in college and older that would make a wonderful father, please let them know of the weekend.
Prayer Ministry at the weekend Mass times on 1/28 – 1/30
Come forward after Mass by yourself, or with your family, friends, spouse, or in the place of someone you know who needs prayer. Prayer ministry is for all those in need of prayer, be it for spiritual, physical, or emotional need or thankful praise.
LOOKING AHEAD
Understanding Your Grief 1/31 and onwards
If you are grieving the loss of a loved one and would like companionship, prayerful support, and caring presence during this time, consider attending the in-person grief support sessions that will be guided by “Understanding Your Grief Exploring the Ten Essential Touchstones” by Alan Wolfelt, PH.D.
If you would like to attend sessions during the day, sessions will be on Mondays from 1pm to 2:30pm in the Ministry Room on January 31; February 7, 14, 21, 28; March 7, 14, 21 28 and April 4, 11, 18. If you would like to attend sessions in the evening, sessions will be on Mondays from 6:30pm to 8:00pm in the Ministry Room on January 31; February 7, 14, 21, 28; March 7, 14, 21, 28 and April 4, 11, 18.
Come Alive starts 2/2
Come Alive is back, it is a Christ led small group program that makes the connection between our spiritual and physical well-being. In our time together, we will discover spiritual practices to strengthen our relationship with God and gain new joy-filled perspectives as we weave healthy activities into the rhythm of our day. The focus is on HOW to change behaviors in the rhythm of our life for the long-term, to encourage each other, and to give grace when we stumble. The group meets for 90 minutes in eight sessions. The meetings are scheduled on Wednesdays from 7:00 to 8:30pm in Room 218 on February 2, 9, 16, and 23 and March 9, 16, 23, and 30.
The guidebook for the program is $15 (scholarships are available) that contains recipes, spiritual practices, scripture, and nutrition information. If you have questions or would like to register please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care at 331-707-5380 or at jolenel@olmercy.com.
Be a Part of the Synodal Church 2/5, 2/7, 2/8
In October 2021, Pope Francis has called the Church – you, me, Bishop Hicks, in other words, all the baptized into Synod, with the theme “For a Synodal Church –Communion/Participation/Mission” into a global “listening tour.” He also invites the world – believers, non-believers, the marginalized, the poor, the disenfranchised – to participate and talk about how the Church is living out its communion, participation, and mission. The aim of the Synod is to discern how we are “living the faith” and how, we as a Church, are achieving this together.
We look forward to your participation; come and help build up the body of Christ by taking part in one of the following 4 ways.
1. Fill out this online questionnaireby Jan 30 or
2. Fill out a paper questionnaire (these forms will be available through March 3).
3. Participate in one of the following in-person listening sessions. Please register ahead of time at this link https://bit.ly/RegisterforListeningSession
Saturday, February 5th from 1:30pm to 3:30pm or
Monday, February 7th from 9:00am to 11:00am or
Tuesday, February 8th from 7:00pm to 9:00pm (this Tuesday listening session has an online Zoom counterpart for those that can’t take part in person)
4. Please don’t forget to invite others, a neighbor, a friend, a co-worker, someone you know who is from a different faith.
____
To access any of the synod information and videos such as Father Don’s homily and a conversation with him on the listening process, go to https://olmercy.com/synod/
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,
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.
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.
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 new start date 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.
Online Alpha has started and is still welcoming participants, join the online adventure with 30 other participants!
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
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
Father Don speaks about his upcoming retirement! Read all about it in his 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. Come forward after Mass by yourself, or with your family, friends, spouse, or in the place of someone you know who needs prayer. Prayer ministry is for all those in need of prayer, be it for spiritual, physical, or emotional need or thankful praise.
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.
GROW GROUPS | WE CONTINUE TO LAUNCH GROW GROUPS, ONE GROUP AT A TIME Connect withzara@olmercy.comfor any questions.
Mission. This group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints. Website. Proceed here for details. Meets. Tuesdays @ 7pm and twice a month for social gatherings. Connect. Reach out to Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com See what they have been up to at this video.
Mission. Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce. Website. Proceed here for details
Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings. Connect. The group leaders are looking forward to hearing from you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them.
Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com
Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com
Check out the video to find out more about Vine and Branches
Mission. A Mother’s Heart is a group for Catholic mothers with children ages 0-11 who are seeking to journey with other like-minded women of faith. Following the example of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, we strive to imitate her “little way” of growing in holiness through the lenses of motherhood and family. Website. Proceed here for details.
Meets. Thursdays twice a month. For any of the following: book chats, podcast discussions, “Mom’s Night Out”, community service projects, fellowship, playgroups, prayer. Please join them and register ahead of time for this month’s gatherings with Lydia Schmit Connect. Reach out to Lydia Schmitt lydiadschmitt@gmail.com for any questions.
SALT AND LIGHT GROW GROUP Mission. “Encounter/Grow/Witness” is the threefold dimension of the Christian life. Once we encounter Jesus, we are then called to grow daily as His disciples. Grow Groups are one way Our Lady of Mercy is responding to our missionary identity where we are called to help parishioners grow continually in discipleship.
Connect. For more information, connect with Bob Maxwell at bmaxwell@deltadentalil.com or 630-962-8464
GROW YOUR FAITH FREE ONLINE RESOURCES In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.
FORMED.ORG
Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any internet-connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, and studies… there is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.
Check out our “Eucharist Resources” page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives and the great Feast of Corpus Christi.
AMEN – CATHOLIC MEDITATION APP
From Augustine Institutecomes this NEW & FREE Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture. There is also Family Content: Enjoy and share family-favorite audio from the series Brother Francis and the Jesus Stories. Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.
HALLOW – A CATHOLIC PRAYER & MEDITATION APP
Hallow is a Catholic prayer & meditation app that helps users deepen their relationship with God through contemplative prayer and strengthen one’s mental health in the process. Easy-to-use, audio-guided sessions anywhere from 1 to 60 minutes long. Pray your own way with a personalized prayer plan pulling from 3,000+ unique sessions including the Lectio Divina on the Daily Gospel, Rosary, Examen, Night Prayer, Calm & Humility “Praylists” and much more. Hallow Light is free. Hallow Plus is $5 per month ($60 per year). Sign up for either one here.
WORD ON FIRE
Did you know that you have complete access to Bishop Barron’s Word on Fire ENGAGE video library! Check out this linkto watch any of the videos whenever you want without ever having to login.
HEROIC MEN
Looking for authentically Catholic content for men? Look no further than HeroicMen.com—the all-new, 100% FREE Catholic streaming platform for men.
Learn about your faith from today’s best Catholic speakers—and do it all from the convenience of home. Stream-on-demand from your phone or tablet, too, for quality Catholic content on the go.
Have you wanted to get to know St. Thomas Aquinas and his writings more so as to grow closer to Jesus? Sign up for any of the short and free courses at Aquinas 101 a project of the Thomistic Institute seeks to promote understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the eminent 13th-century philosopher, and theologian.
Aquinas is a masterful interpreter of reality. His writings assist us in answering perennial questions on topics like God, man, the natural world, law, and morality, and questions of special relevance to our time like the relationship between modern science and faith or pursuing happiness in the digital era.
AMA WITH FATHER JAMES
We’ve learned so much through the questions you asked! Thank you for submitting them. Let’s continue to learn together as Father James answers more of your questions. Watch them here or submit any questions you may have!
PASTORAL CARE If you have physical, mental, emotional or spiritual health concerns or questions about end-of-life issues, funeral planning, journeying through grief, caregiving for a loved one or are homebound, please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care for support and resources at jolenel@olmercy.com or 331-707-5380.
OPEN HEARTS MINISTRY
There will not be a gathering in December for the Open HEARTS Ministry. If you are in need of emotional or mental health support or resources, please contact Janice Hurtado Aeppli at 321-217- 7872 or at olmopenhearts@yahoo.com
RESTORE
Do you find yourself struggling in overcoming your battle with pornography? Restore is a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas as to how to strengthen our resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of pornography addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day.
If you are ready to start breaking free from the grips of pornography and want to Restore your life email us at Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet.
This Sunday we celebrate the first miracle of Jesus at the Wedding Feast of Cana.
Remember that Jesus was fully human—He ate, He slept, He wept, He laughed, and He went to weddings. When the bride and the groom ran out of wine at Cana, Mary prompts Jesus to act: “They have no wine.”
But Jesus knows that with this first miracle His public ministry begins, a ministry that will ultimately lead to the Cross. Mary, aware of her son’s mission at hand, detaches herself and says to the servants, “Do whatever He tells you.”
The symbolic nature of the water to wine foreshadows both the blood that Christ will pour out for us from the Cross and the “new wine” of the Eucharist that will nourish His Church and never run dry!
Consider watching the video on the Flocknote email of Rachel Bulman on how the Eucharistic meal echoes Jesus’ first miracle at Cana to help us prepare our hearts to go to Mass.
We hope to see you at the weekend Mass times where the Deacons are preaching. Or stop by and visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.
“At Cana, Jesus’ disciples become his family and at Cana, the faith of the Church is born.”
THIS COMING WEEK
Be a Part of the Synodal Church fill out forms on 1/15 – 1/16
In October 2021, Pope Francis has called the Church – you, me, Bishop Hicks, in other words, all the baptized into Synod, with the theme “For a Synodal Church –Communion/Participation/Mission” into a global “listening tour.” He also invites the world – believers, non-believers, the marginalized, the poor, the disenfranchised – to participate and talk about how the Church is living out its communion, participation, and mission. The aim of the Synod is to discern how we are “living the faith” and how, we as a Church, are achieving this together.
We look forward to your participation; come and help build up the body of Christ by taking part in one of the following 4 ways.
1. Fill out this online questionnaireby Jan 30 or
2. Fill out a paper questionnaire at the Mass times on Jan 15-16 (these forms will be available through March 3).
3. Participate in one of the following in-person listening sessions. Please register ahead of time at this link https://bit.ly/RegisterforListeningSession
Saturday, February 5th from 1:30pm to 3:30pm or
Monday, February 7th from 9:00am to 11:00am or
Tuesday, February 8th from 7:00pm to 9:00pm (this Tuesday listening session has an online Zoom counterpart for those that can’t take part in person)
4. Please don’t forget to invite others, a neighbor, a friend, a co-worker, someone you know who is from a different faith.
All are invited to attend the in-person St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday, January 18 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 OLM 1/19
The Mobile Food Pantry is back this week Weds Jan 19th with a time change of 4:30pm to 6:00pm.
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!
Respect Life Ministry January Schedule
January 16 Mass for Life 10:30 AM at St. Raymond’s Cathedral
Join us for the Joliet Diocese Mass for Life at the Cathedral of St. Raymond in Joliet. January 21, March for Life Rally
The March for Life Rally will be held on Friday, January 21, 2022 on the National Mall in Washington, DC. Please support with prayers and sacrifice. EWTN does a wonderful live coverage, as do other national prolife organizations. Please check out link below for more details https://marchforlife.org/
January 19 – 27, Respect Life Novena
Respect Life Novena will once again be said before all masses at our parish from Jan 19 -27. Come early before the daily Mass start times and let us be in prayer together.January 22, Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of the Unborn
Take part in these additional offerings on this pivotal day.
In addition to the Respect Life Novena, we will also have a Rosary for Life before the 8:30 AM Holy Mass.
Following the 8:30am Holy Mass, is a showing of Roe v Wade the Movie at Room 114 at the PLC. The movie is 111 minutes long. There will be an open discussion facilitated by Father James after the movie. The event is estimated to end approximately at about 12:30 PM.
Please help spread the word. Educating ourselves and having a respectful, candid conversation about this with our fellow parishioners, family, and friends is important in changing hearts and minds about abortion and promoting a culture of life in our society. Check out The official trailer below.
AMA with Father James 1/21
We’ve learned so much through the questions you asked! Thank you for submitting them. Let’s continue to learn together as Father James answers more of your questions. Submit any questions you may have at this link! Hope to see you on Friday 1/21 @ 2pm.
Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship 1/22
On Saturday 1/22 at 9am is the Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus #12005 Free Throw Championship in the gym at the Parish Life Center. Registration begins at 8:45am
All boys and girls aged 9 to 14, as of 1/1/2022, are invited to participate, please present proof of age during registration with written parental consent. Participants will compete in their respective age divisions, with the winners advancing to the district, region, and state competitions. All contestants at this local event will be recognized for their participation. The District competition will take place in February at a to be determined location. For additional information call (630) 957-7559
Bring Your Bibles to be Blessed at Mass the weekend of 1/22 & 1/23
Next weekend is Word of God Sunday! Bring your Bibles to Mass so it can be blessed. The Sunday of the Word of God in the Roman Catholic Church takes place on the third Sunday in Ordinary Time, during January. According to Pope Francis’ Apostolic Letter, it “is to be devoted to the celebration, study, and dissemination of the Word of God.” The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops has created many resources to help celebrate the observance.
LOOKING AHEAD
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
MAGNIFY 1/26
“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior, for He has looked upon His handmaid’s lowliness; behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed. The Mighty One has done great things for me, and holy is His name.” (Luke 1:46-49)
What a beautiful hymn of praise to God. Mary recognizes she is lowly. So are we! And yet, through her perfect co-operation with God’s grace she will become loved and lauded until the end of time. There is the lesson for us.
In praising God, we reflect, we magnify, we radiate, we share in God’s great plan for His universe and all creation – you and I included. There lies the path to happiness as well as to Heaven.
Come, let us praise Him at Magnify! Starts at 7pm through 8:30pm with Scriptural Reflection from Father James, Confessions, Adoration, and Praise.
Collection for Church in Latin America 1/28 – 1/30
Soon our diocese will take up the Collection for the Church in Latin America. This national collection supports many pastoral projects that benefit the faithful in Latin America and the Caribbean. An important fact that you must know is that 25% of this diocesan collection goes to support our own diocesan mission work. Since 1994 our diocese has sent missioners to Sucre, Bolivia to not only offer our support with concrete actions, but to build relationships with the people who are so grateful for our presence and work there. We are blessed to have our Bolivian friends. Let us all become missionaries by strengthening the Church in Latin America with a donation to the second collection on the weekend of January 22-23.
Exploring the Priesthood Weekend at Mundelein Seminary 1/28 – 1/30
The Exploring the Priesthood Weekend at Mundelein Seminary is an “open house” to give men Junior in College and older an opportunity to learn about Mundelein Seminary and to hear about the priesthood. Private room and meals included. There is no cost for the weekend.
Recall Father Steve’s homily in late August (found here) where he gives us reason to stop and consider asking those we know who would make wonderful fathers and mothers if they have ever given serious consideration to the joy of being with Jesus as a spiritual father or spiritual mother through the priesthood and religious life? Know of men Junior in college and older that would make a wonderful father, please let them know of the weekend.
Understanding Your Grief 1/31 and onwards
If you are grieving the loss of a loved one and would like companionship, prayerful support, and caring presence during this time, consider attending the in-person grief support sessions that will be guided by “Understanding Your Grief Exploring the Ten Essential Touchstones” by Alan Wolfelt, PH.D.
If you would like to attend sessions during the day, sessions will be on Mondays from 1pm to 2:30pm in the Ministry Room on January 31; February 7, 14, 21, 28; March 7, 14, 21 28 and April 4, 11, 18. If you would like to attend sessions in the evening, sessions will be on Mondays from 6:30pm to 8:00pm in the Ministry Room on January 31; February 7, 14, 21, 28; March 7, 14, 21, 28 and April 4, 11, 18.
Come Alive starts 2/2
Come Alive is back, it is a Christ led small group program that makes the connection between our spiritual and physical well-being. In our time together, we will discover spiritual practices to strengthen our relationship with God and gain new joy-filled perspectives as we weave healthy activities into the rhythm of our day. The focus is on HOW to change behaviors in the rhythm of our life for the long-term, to encourage each other, and to give grace when we stumble. The group meets for 90 minutes in eight sessions. The meetings are scheduled on Wednesdays from 7:00 to 8:30pm in Room 218 on February 2, 9, 16, and 23 and March 9, 16, 23, and 30.
The guidebook for the program is $15 (scholarships are available) that contains recipes, spiritual practices, scripture, and nutrition information. If you have questions or would like to register please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care at 331-707-5380 or at jolenel@olmercy.com.
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,
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.
Alpha in-person new start date 3/3
More time, prudence, and listening well. What makes the Alpha experience wonderful is knowing that one is being heard. With a handful of our 40+ guests getting sick and some of the team, we’ve decided to move the start date to Thursday 3/3rd. This gives us time to heal, and time to invite and/or plan out what you would like to do for Lent this year (Ash Weds is on 3/2), perhaps this is your Alpha season to participate for yourself or bring a friend.
Online Alpha will start this Weds 1/19 as scheduled.
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
Don’t forget to check out 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 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. Come forward after Mass by yourself, or with your family, friends, spouse, or in the place of someone you know who needs prayer. Prayer ministry is for all those in need of prayer, be it for spiritual, physical, or emotional need or thankful praise.
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.
GROW GROUPS | WE CONTINUE TO LAUNCH GROW GROUPS, ONE GROUP AT A TIME Connect withzara@olmercy.comfor any questions.
Mission. This group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints. Website. Proceed here for details. Meets. Tuesdays @ 7pm and twice a month for social gatherings. Connect. Reach out to Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com See what they have been up to at this video.
Mission. Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce. Website. Proceed here for details
Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings. Connect. The group leaders are looking forward to hearing from you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them.
Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com
Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com
Check out the video to find out more about Vine and Branches
Mission. A Mother’s Heart is a group for Catholic mothers with children ages 0-11 who are seeking to journey with other like-minded women of faith. Following the example of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, we strive to imitate her “little way” of growing in holiness through the lenses of motherhood and family. Website. Proceed here for details.
Meets. Thursdays twice a month. For any of the following: book chats, podcast discussions, “Mom’s Night Out”, community service projects, fellowship, playgroups, prayer. Please join them and register ahead of time for this month’s gatherings with Lydia Schmit Connect. Reach out to Lydia Schmitt lydiadschmitt@gmail.com for any questions.
GROW YOUR FAITH FREE ONLINE RESOURCES In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.
FORMED.ORG
Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any internet-connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, and studies… there is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.
Check out our “Eucharist Resources” page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives and the great Feast of Corpus Christi.
AMEN – CATHOLIC MEDITATION APP
From Augustine Institutecomes this NEW & FREE Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture. There is also Family Content: Enjoy and share family-favorite audio from the series Brother Francis and the Jesus Stories. Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.
HALLOW – A CATHOLIC PRAYER & MEDITATION APP
Hallow is a Catholic prayer & meditation app that helps users deepen their relationship with God through contemplative prayer and strengthen one’s mental health in the process. Easy-to-use, audio-guided sessions anywhere from 1 to 60 minutes long. Pray your own way with a personalized prayer plan pulling from 3,000+ unique sessions including the Lectio Divina on the Daily Gospel, Rosary, Examen, Night Prayer, Calm & Humility “Praylists” and much more. Hallow Light is free. Hallow Plus is $5 per month ($60 per year). Sign up for either one here.
WORD ON FIRE
Did you know that you have complete access to Bishop Barron’s Word on Fire ENGAGE video library! Check out this linkto watch any of the videos whenever you want without ever having to login.
HEROIC MEN
Looking for authentically Catholic content for men? Look no further than HeroicMen.com—the all-new, 100% FREE Catholic streaming platform for men.
Learn about your faith from today’s best Catholic speakers—and do it all from the convenience of home. Stream-on-demand from your phone or tablet, too, for quality Catholic content on the go.
Have you wanted to get to know St. Thomas Aquinas and his writings more so as to grow closer to Jesus? Sign up for any of the short and free courses at Aquinas 101 a project of the Thomistic Institute seeks to promote understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the eminent 13th-century philosopher, and theologian.
Aquinas is a masterful interpreter of reality. His writings assist us in answering perennial questions on topics like God, man, the natural world, law, and morality, and questions of special relevance to our time like the relationship between modern science and faith or pursuing happiness in the digital era.
AMA WITH FATHER JAMES
We’ve learned so much through the questions you asked! Thank you for submitting them. Let’s continue to learn together as Father James answers more of your questions. Watch them here or submit any questions you may have!
PASTORAL CARE If you have physical, mental, emotional or spiritual health concerns or questions about end-of-life issues, funeral planning, journeying through grief, caregiving for a loved one or are homebound, please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care for support and resources at jolenel@olmercy.com or 331-707-5380.
OPEN HEARTS MINISTRY
There will not be a gathering in December for the Open HEARTS Ministry. If you are in need of emotional or mental health support or resources, please contact Janice Hurtado Aeppli at 321-217- 7872 or at olmopenhearts@yahoo.com
RESTORE
Do you find yourself struggling in overcoming your battle with pornography? Restore is a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas as to how to strengthen our resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of pornography addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day.
If you are ready to start breaking free from the grips of pornography and want to Restore your life email us at Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet.
From Father Don, Father James, the permanent Deacons, and staff at Our Lady of Mercy, Merry Christmas!
May you and your loved ones, far and close, know the joy of being loved and the joy of loving.
And let us rejoice, for we have been rescued – our Savior has come!
You are what makes Our Lady of Mercy special and we are so grateful you continue to worship with us, serve with us, be in community with us and support us. Thank you and have a Blessed and Merry Christmas!
A CHRISTMAS REFLECTION
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it… for the Word became flesh…and made His dwelling among us. -John 1
This is a day for falling in love. This is the day when Mary and Joseph look up from the baby in the manger and invite us to gather around. Even as they savor the moment, they are eager to share it with us as well, this “good news of great joy
. . . for all the people” (Luke 2:10).
And so Joseph and Mary invite us to join them on their journey of discovery. Here, says Mary, as she lifts her newborn from the hay.
He is yours too—He came for you.
Take Him. Hold Him close. Share in the love that Joseph and I have for this little one.
Like the angels’ birth announcement, the invitation is for everyone. No one is left out—however unworthy, unspiritual, or unprepared we may feel. So whoever you are, wherever you are, whatever your state today, receive this gift of Jesus. Take the child in your arms. Like Father Don says in his Christmas homily about a newborn baby. Gaze on His face, and see how much He loves you. Let Him lock eyes with you, as babies will, so that He can search your heart and reveal you to yourself. Let down your defenses, and fall in love with this Christ child—with God-made flesh for you.
As a wise spiritual director has shared, falling in love with God in this “absolute, final way” is the most practical and far-reaching thing you could ever do:
“What you are in love with, what seizes your imagination, will affect everything. It will decide what will get you out of bed in the morning, what you will do with your evenings, how you will spend your weekends, what you read, who you know, what breaks your heart, and what amazes you with joy and gratitude.”
Jesus has come. The Word has become flesh. Fall in love with Him. Stay in love with Him. It will decide everything.
“Mary and Joseph, thank you for bringing Jesus to me! Pray that I might love Him as you did—more and more each day.”
The liturgical color for this week is rose (or pink) as a reminder of the expectant joy we can experience in celebrating the nearness of our Savior. It’s an invitation to pause in the midst of all the activity and breathe deeply because the last-minute shopping, baking, cleaning, and wrapping may even start to weigh down upon us.
Embrace this Gaudete “Rejoice” Sunday as a call to pause from our busyness to prepare ourselves for the coming of the Lord, to prepare ourselves with JOY! “Cry out with joy!” we hear in Isaiah 12, for “the Lord is in our midst,” writes Zephaniah.
Joy is a fruit of the Holy Spirit! Joy goes beyond mere moments of happiness that come and go. Hear more about it in the less than 2-minute video on the Flocknote email.
In our Sunday Gospel we hear that John the Baptist brought good, joyful news to his followers:
“…one mightier than I is coming! I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of His sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire!”
Have an expectant joy-filled third week of Advent. If you missed any of the Advent homilies of the Fathers, you can find them all on our Advent Resource page. We hope to see you at the weekend Mass times where Father James is preaching and this coming week at any of the gatherings. Or stop by and visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.
Questions for Additional Reflection:
How is Joy different than Happiness?
Have you ever experienced real joy? Even in a time of suffering or trial?
What’s one thing you can do to live joyfully this week?
Dear Jesus, fill me with a sense of Your nearness during this Advent season. May the joy of Your imminent arrival infuse every preparation, event, and celebration in these coming days.
Amen.
THIS COMING WEEK
Second Collection for Retired Religious on 12/11 and 12/12
Help aging religious. Elderly Catholic sisters, brothers, and religious order priests have offered their lives in service to others— educating the young, comforting the sick, and ministering to the less fortunate. Today, many are frail and need assistance. Your gift to the Retirement Fund for Religious helps furnish medications, nursing care, and more.
Please join the Hispanic Ministry at the bilingual Mass celebration in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe at 2pm on Sunday 12/12 in Spanish. We hope to see you in person at the Mass (or at the livestream) which commemorates this wonderful feast day of the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe (OLG), the patron saint of the Americas who appeared to Juan Diego in Mexico City in 1531. For more on OLG watch Bishop Barron’s visit to the OLG shrine in Mexico here.
St. Peregrine Prayer Service 12/14
For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers. As well as anyone experiencing physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and health concerns. Come to the In-Person St. Peregrine Prayer Service this Tuesday following the 6:30pm Mass.
Filling a Stocking for a Family In Need due 12/14
Visit the Ministry Room after all the Masses to grab a stocking to fill for a family in need! Stockings will benefit families receiving assistance through the Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry and Hesed House. Each stocking will come with a list of suggested items to purchase and stuff your stocking with!
Once you have filled your stocking with suggested “stocking stuffers,” please return it to our table in the Ministry Room after any of the Sunday masses OR return it to the main office during office hours by no later than Tuesday, 12/14. Please contact Lydia Schmitt, at lydias@olmercy.com or 331-707-5377, with additional questions.
Christmas With The Chosen: The Messengers 12/15
We hope to see you on Wednesday 12/15th at 6:30pm to watch this Christmas movie that is on limited release in the theaters here at Our Lady of Mercy!
This is the perfect opportunity to bring friends and family, including those who haven’t seen The Chosen, those who have not been to Church in a while, and those who don’t know Jesus, for a unique Christmas story experience.
The Simbang Gabi Filipino tradition of celebrating devotional Mass in preparation for the coming of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ will be held on Saturday 12/18 at 6pm with fellowship and light refreshment after Mass.
Come and join the Filipino community at the Simbang Gabi Mass which invites all of us to nurture the spirit of Advent not only as individual preparation but to prepare as a community, a family of God united in worship and in prayer. We bring our families and friends to the Eucharist, joining the entire community in waiting, and being strengthened by God’s Spirit in preparing for the birth of Jesus.
Thank you so much for your support of the 2021 Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal (CMAA) helping us surpass our goal of $154,400 with $162,242 in commitments to which our parish rebate is $5,490! Please proceed here to view the closing report and letter from Bishop Hicks.
Christmas Flower Memorials
This Christmas we will decorate the church with poinsettias around the altar. Flowers can also be memorialized by using one of the flower envelopes found in the narthex. The recommended donation is $10.00. Thank you for your generosity and for helping to make our church beautiful during the holiday season.
Angel Giving: Be an Angel to a Family In Need
This year for Christmas we are partnering with the Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry Hesed House and St. Vincent de Paul to assist families in need throughout the holidays. Donations will benefit those individuals who are currently receiving aide through SVDP in order to assist the families with rent and utility payments. Donations will also assist the purchase of Christmas meals through the Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry and Hesed House to benefit those families whom they currently assist.
Elise Flagg Academy of Dance Presents: The Naperville Nutcracker 12/17 – 12/19
(Our very own parishioner) Elise Flagg, her Academy of Dance is presenting The Nutcracker at North Central College Pfeiffer Hall.
Celebrate this holiday season with the magic of The Naperville Nutcracker! Set to the beloved score by Tchaikovsky, with its beautiful costumes, gorgeous sets and impressive dancing. This production is guaranteed to fill the audience with cheer and delight! Tickets and information are found here.
Feel free to ask Elise any questions, she is a daily Mass attendee.Parishioners may make donations via our online giving portal under “Angel Giving” or checks can also be made payable to Our Lady of Mercy with “Angel Giving” in the memo and placed inside of the bin in the Narthex after mass. Please contact Lydia Schmitt, in the main office, with additional questions at lydias@olmercy.com or 331-707-5377.
Blue Christmas In-person Prayer Service 12/19
May those experiencing grief and loss at Christmas, find hope and peace in this prayer service and comfort in knowing that you are not alone. It is a time to listen, pray and feel the love of God.
The Blue Christmas Prayer Service will be in the church on Sunday, 12/19 from 3pm to 4pm. Please connect with Jolene LeRoy at 331-707-5380 or jolenel@olmercy.com for more details.
Christmas Collection & End of Year Giving 12/25 and 12/31
As we prepare for the Solemnity of Christmas, the Scripture readings inspire all faith-filled stewards to stop and ponder in great awe God’s ultimate gift: the gift of His only begotten Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. Out of heartfelt gratitude, what of our prayer, service, and generosity can we present to Him?
It is a great blessing that all of the funds donated as part of the Christmas Collection stay with Our Lady of Mercy and will help us meet our Weekly Sunday Collection which we are falling short of its weekly goal. If you wish to donate to the Christmas Collection, please use one of the following three methods:
1. Give online at www.olmercy.com/give look for the online giving portal and be sure to select “Christmas” (use the drop-down arrow)
2. Give during Mass using your Christmas envelope.
3. Give during Mass using a blank envelope labeled “Christmas Collection,” also include “Christmas Collection” on the memo line of your check
PLEASE NOTE: only donations received (or postmarked) on or before December 31 will appear on your 2021 giving statement that will be sent out by the end of January, 2022
Informational Meeting on Diocesan Mission 1/4/2022 and 1/12/2022
Join the diocesan mission trip to the Navajo Nation in June 2022!
The Diocese of Joliet will resume its U.S. mission program in June with a two-week trip to the Navajo Nation located near Chinle, Arizona.
The June 4-17 trip will focus on construction projects for residents of the reservation, with volunteers helping with such jobs as framing a house, tearing down dilapidated buildings, repairing fencing, etc. “It’s not just going to work for the people, but to be with them and experience their life and culture,” said diocesan missions coordinator Bruce Carlson. The diocese has organized mission trips to the reservation since 2002, but paused the annual expeditions during the past two years because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Informational meetings on the trip will be held on Jan. 4 and 12 at the Blanchette Catholic Center, 16555 Weber Road, Crest Hill, Illinois. For more information, email bcarslon@dioceseofjoliet.org or call 815-221-6256.
Free Throw Championship 1/22/2022
On Saturday 1/22/2022 at 9am is the Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus #12005 Free Throw Championship in the gym at the Parish Life Center. Registration begins at 8:45am
All boys and girls aged 9 to 14, as of 1/1/2022, are invited to participate, please present proof of age during registration with written parental consent. Participants will compete in their respective age divisions, with the winners advancing to the district, region, and state competitions. All contestants at this local event will be recognized for their participation. The District competition will take place in February at a to be determined location. For additional information call (630) 957-7559
Exploring the Priesthood Weekend at Mundelein Seminary 1/28 – 1/30/2022
The Exploring the Priesthood Weekend at Mundelein Seminary is an “open house” to give men Junior in College and older an opportunity to learn about Mundelein Seminary and to hear about the priesthood. Private room and meals included. There is no cost for the weekend.
Recall Father Steve’s homily in late August (found here) where he gives us reason to stop and consider asking those we know who would make wonderful fathers and mothers if they have ever given serious consideration to the joy of being with Jesus as a spiritual father or spiritual mother through the priesthood and religious life? Know of men Junior in college and older that would make a wonderful father, please let them know of the weekend.
Synod on Synodality
The Synod on Synodality is a two-year process of listening and dialogue that began with a solemn opening in Rome in October and will conclude in 2023.
Let us be in prayer for Bishop Hicks and all the Bishops, for blessings upon the preparation for the Synod of Bishops, and that the dialogue of those participating in the pre-synod process will bear great fruit for the salvation of souls.
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
Don’t forget to check out 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 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. Come forward after Mass by yourself, or with your family, friends, spouse, or in the place of someone you know who needs prayer. Prayer ministry is for all those in need of prayer, be it for spiritual, physical, or emotional need or thankful praise.
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.
GROW GROUPS | WE CONTINUE TO LAUNCH GROW GROUPS, ONE GROUP AT A TIME Connect withzara@olmercy.comfor any questions.
Mission. This group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints. Website. Proceed here for details. Meets. Tuesdays @ 7pm and twice a month for social gatherings. Connect. Reach out to Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com See what they have been up to at this video.
Mission. Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce. Website. Proceed here for details
Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings. Connect. The group leaders are looking forward to hearing from you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them.
Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com
Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com
Check out the video to find out more about Vine and Branches
Mission. A Mother’s Heart is a group for Catholic mothers with children ages 0-11 who are seeking to journey with other like-minded women of faith. Following the example of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, we strive to imitate her “little way” of growing in holiness through the lenses of motherhood and family.
Meets. Thursdays twice a month. For any of the following: book chats, podcast discussions, “Mom’s Night Out”, community service projects, fellowship, playgroups, prayer. Please join them and register ahead of time for this month’s gatherings with Lydia Schmit.
-|- Advent Crafts & Storytime on Thursday 12/16 @ 9:30am at Our Lady of Mercy
-|- Zoom Discussions on Thursday 12/9 & 12/21 @ 7:30pm to discuss episodes from the Abiding Together Podcast
GROW YOUR FAITH FREE ONLINE RESOURCES In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.
FORMED.ORG
Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any internet-connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, and studies… there is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.
Check out our “Eucharist Resources” page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives and the great Feast of Corpus Christi.
AMEN – CATHOLIC MEDITATION APP
From Augustine Institutecomes this NEW & FREE Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture. There is also Family Content: Enjoy and share family-favorite audio from the series Brother Francis and the Jesus Stories. Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.
HALLOW – A CATHOLIC PRAYER & MEDITATION APP
Hallow is a Catholic prayer & meditation app that helps users deepen their relationship with God through contemplative prayer and strengthen one’s mental health in the process. Easy-to-use, audio-guided sessions anywhere from 1 to 60 minutes long. Pray your own way with a personalized prayer plan pulling from 3,000+ unique sessions including the Lectio Divina on the Daily Gospel, Rosary, Examen, Night Prayer, Calm & Humility “Praylists” and much more. Hallow Light is free. Hallow Plus is $5 per month ($60 per year). Sign up for either one here.
WORD ON FIRE
Did you know that you have complete access to Bishop Barron’s Word on Fire ENGAGE video library! Check out this linkto watch any of the videos whenever you want without ever having to login.
HEROIC MEN
Looking for authentically Catholic content for men? Look no further than HeroicMen.com—the all-new, 100% FREE Catholic streaming platform for men.
Learn about your faith from today’s best Catholic speakers—and do it all from the convenience of home. Stream-on-demand from your phone or tablet, too, for quality Catholic content on the go.
Have you wanted to get to know St. Thomas Aquinas and his writings more so as to grow closer to Jesus? Sign up for any of the short and free courses at Aquinas 101 a project of the Thomistic Institute seeks to promote understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the eminent 13th-century philosopher, and theologian.
Aquinas is a masterful interpreter of reality. His writings assist us in answering perennial questions on topics like God, man, the natural world, law, and morality, and questions of special relevance to our time like the relationship between modern science and faith or pursuing happiness in the digital era.
AMA WITH FATHER JAMES
We’ve learned so much through the questions you asked! Thank you for submitting them. Let’s continue to learn together as Father James answers more of your questions. Watch them here or submit any questions you may have!
PASTORAL CARE If you have physical, mental, emotional or spiritual health concerns or questions about end-of-life issues, funeral planning, journeying through grief, caregiving for a loved one or are homebound, please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care for support and resources at jolenel@olmercy.com or 331-707-5380.
OPEN HEARTS MINISTRY
There will not be a gathering in December for the Open HEARTS Ministry. If you are in need of emotional or mental health support or resources, please contact Janice Hurtado Aeppli at 321-217- 7872 or at olmopenhearts@yahoo.com
RESTORE
Do you find yourself struggling in overcoming your battle with pornography? Restore is a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas as to how to strengthen our resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of pornography addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day.
If you are ready to start breaking free from the grips of pornography and want to Restore your life email us at Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet.
While the world likes to rush to Christmas, we Catholics are invited to take an entire season, called Advent, to slow down and prepare ourselves for the great mystery before us.
The message of Advent for us is simple: “Wake up!”
Advent is a time to be reawakened to the great mystery of the Incarnation: God became man, in time and space and in documented history over 2,000 years ago. If this is indeed true, then Jesus Christ has changed everything.
The people of Israel often grew tired in their exile and in their seemingly endless wait on the Lord. But in His time, not ours, God showed up. And He still does today. For our sake, God indeed became man.
Consider watching this short less than 2-minute video on the Flocknote email that speaks to the invitation of Advent to help us amidst our noisy, frenetic world of endless commercials and pings; What is our response? How will this season be different? What can I do differently? How can I put Christ at the center of my life again, or perhaps for the very first time? Let’s wake up this Advent season!
Have a wonderful first week of Advent. If you were traveling, keep an eye out for the posting of Father James’ weekend homily on our social media platforms. Don’t forget to check out the Advent Resource and Schedule page and to stop by to visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.
Questions for Additional Reflection:
Where do you feel that you are living “on autopilot”?
What’s one practical thing you can do to make this Advent different?
Donating while shopping dating WHILE SHOPPING! In this season of shopping please keep Our Lady of Mercy in mind. Do you shop on Amazon? Please go to SMILE.AMAZON.COM and select Our Lady of Mercy Aurora, IL as your charitable organization of choice, it is the same Amazon with the difference of shopping through Amazon Smiles allows for the donation of a percentage of the price of the item to be donated to Our Lady of Mercy. This is an easy and quick way to support us. We are grateful for any support.
Giving Tuesday 11/30
On Nov 30th is Giving Tuesday, it is a day when people all over the world financially support their favorite nonprofit causes. It’s celebrated annually the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. As you prepare to open your hearts in support of worthy causes on Giving Tuesday, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Our Lady of Mercy.
Currently we are not meeting our weekly Sunday goal.
Pray and Fast to end Abortion Tues and Weds 11/30 & 12/1
There will be an hour of Eucharistic Adoration during confessions on Tuesday evening 11/30th from 7pm-8pm to pray for the Supreme Court hearing taking place the next day on the landmark case over the right of states to protect mothers and unborn life. Be encouraged to observe a day of prayer and fasting on Wednesday 12/1 as the US Supreme Court hears oral arguments in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization which could please God, hasten the end of Roe v. Wade, and legalized abortion in the United States.
[Jesus] said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer and fasting.” – Mark 9:29
Please pray for the Supreme Court Justices, that the Holy Spirit will guide the proceedings and that the Court will find that there is no fundamental right to abortion found in the US Constitution. Also, for the unborn to be recognized as Constitutional Persons and for peace and healing.
First Friday and First Saturday Devotions 12/3 and 12/4
Respect Life 1st Friday Devotion on 12/3
We hope you can come out anytime from 8am to 4pm, to pray for the helpless, innocent unborn who can’t speak for themselves. Pray in front of Planned Parenthood, at the public right of way access. Connect with Lisa SanDiego for any questions (630) 258-0122 or sandiego_family@msn.com. https://bit.ly/3yGSzmU
Confessions immediately following the 8am Mass
Every 1st Friday (in addition to the 8am Mass), we will have a 12pm Mass. We hope you join us.
1st Saturday 12/4 after the 8:30 am Mass is the First Saturday Devotion
This devotion is one of the principal points of the Fatima message. It consists of the following, on 5 consecutive first Saturdays: Going to Confession, receiving the Sacrament of Holy Communion, praying five decades of the Rosary, and Meditating for 15 minutes on the mysteries of the Rosary.
Find out the reasons why the five Saturdays from our Lord Jesus to Sister Lucia as well as additional details here. We hope you incorporate this powerful devotion into your life. Please connect with Bonnie Ramirez 630-723-4289 for any questions.
Charismatic Healing Mass 12/4
On Saturday, 12/6 at 6pm is the Charismatic Healing Mass. A healing Mass is a normal Mass, but it has a special focus on God’s healing power; this will be reflected in the songs, prayers, and scripture readings. If you’re in need of God’s healing grace, come to the Charismatic Healing Mass.
Bring PADS food items to Masses on 12/4 and 12/5
PADS will be on Tuesday 12/7 to help our brothers and sisters in need. Check out the PADS board in the Atrium (the entrance to our building) for the food items needed. We are also thankful for any funds donated via the Give page or checks payable to Our Lady of Mercy and note on the memo “Hesed House-PADS”. Thank you so much for your generosity.
‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’— Matthew 25:40
Saint Nicholas visiting after the 10am Mass 12/5
Who is Saint Nicholas? Calling all children, come to the church after the 10am Mass and hear from Saint Nicholas speak about his life and who really is the real Santa Claus.
Christmas Flower Memorials
This Christmas we will decorate the church with poinsettias around the altar. Flowers can also be memorialized by using one of the flower envelopes found in the narthex. The recommended donation is $10.00. Thank you for your generosity and for helping to make our church beautiful during the holiday season.
Angel Giving: Be an Angel to a Family In Need
This year for Christmas we are partnering with the Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry Hesed House and St. Vincent de Paul to assist families in need throughout the holidays. Donations will benefit those individuals who are currently receiving aide through SVDP in order to assist the families with rent and utility payments. Donations will also assist the purchase of Christmas meals through the Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry and Hesed House to benefit those families whom they currently assist.
Parishioners may make donations via our online giving portal under “Angel Giving” or checks can also be made payable to Our Lady of Mercy with “Angel Giving” in the memo and placed inside of the bin in the Narthex after mass. Please contact Lydia Schmitt, in the main office, with additional questions at lydias@olmercy.com or 331-707-5377.
Filling a Stocking for a Family In Need
Visit the Ministry Room after all the Masses to grab a stocking to fill for a family in need! Stockings will benefit families receiving assistance through the Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry and Hesed House. Each stocking will come with a list of suggested items to purchase and stuff your stocking with!
Once you have filled your stocking with suggested “stocking stuffers,” please return it to our table in the Ministry Room after any of the Sunday masses OR return it to the main office during office hours by no later than Tuesday, 12/14. Please contact Lydia Schmitt, at lydias@olmercy.com or 331-707-5377, with additional questions.
LOOKING AHEAD
Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 12/8
The Mass times for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception are 6:30am, 8am, 12pm and 7pm. We pray to see you at any of the Mass times; let us rejoice with the Immaculate Mother of God, for it is through her intercession that God has bestowed every spiritual blessing upon us.
God chose Mary, the Immaculate Conception, to be our “model of holiness” by preserving her entirely from original sin, making her all-pure and all-holy. In doing this God also shows us what is possible for us, too, wounded by sin—the healing and restoration of our whole humanity. The intercession and maternal love of the Immaculate One, given to us as our Mother, is the special way God has chosen to bestow upon us the grace of such a healing. As the Mother of our Savior, Mary shares uniquely in His redemptive sacrifice. We turn to her with confidence, for she is “our life, our sweetness, and our hope.” Immaculate Mary, pray for us!
Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass 12/12
The Mass for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be at 2pm on Sunday 12/12 in Spanish. We hope to see you at the Mass which commemorates this wonderful feast day of the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patron saint of the Americas who appeared to Juan Diego in Mexico City in 1531.
St. Peregrine Prayer Service 12/14
For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers. As well as anyone experiencing physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, and health concerns. Come to the In-Person St. Peregrine Prayer Service this Tuesday following the 6:30pm Mass.
Christmas With The Chosen: The Messengers 12/15
Save the date on Wednesday 12/15th at 6:30pm because we will be showing the movie that is on limited release in the theaters here at Our Lady of Mercy!
This is the perfect opportunity to bring friends and family, including those who haven’t seen The Chosen, those who have not been to Church in a while, and those who don’t know Jesus, for a unique Christmas story experience.
The Simbang Gabi Filipino tradition of celebrating devotional Mass in preparation for the coming of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ will be held on Saturday 12/18 at 6pm with fellowship and light refreshment after Mass.
Come and join the Filipino community at the Simbang Gabi Mass which invites all of us to nurture the spirit of Advent not only as individual preparation but to prepare as a community, a family of God united in worship and in prayer. We bring our families and friends to the Eucharist, joining the entire community in waiting, and being strengthened by God’s Spirit in preparing for the birth of Jesus.
May those experiencing grief and loss at Christmas, find hope and peace in this prayer service and comfort in knowing that you are not alone. It is a time to listen, pray and feel the love of God.
The Blue Christmas Prayer Service will be in the church on Sunday, 12/19 from 3pm to 4pm. Please connect with Jolene LeRoy at 331-707-5380 or jolenel@olmercy.com for more details.
Free Throw Championship 1/22/2022
On Saturday 1/22/2022 at 9am is the Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus #12005 Free Throw Championship in the gym at the Parish Life Center. Registration begins at 8:45am
All boys and girls aged 9 to 14, as of 1/1/2022, are invited to participate, please present proof of age during registration with written parental consent. Participants will compete in their respective age divisions, with the winners advancing to the district, region, and state competitions. All contestants at this local event will be recognized for their participation. The District competition will take place in February at a to be determined location. For additional information call (630) 957-7559
The Synod on Synodality is a two-year process of listening and dialogue that began with a solemn opening in Rome in October and will conclude in 2023.
Let us be in prayer for Bishop Hicks and all the Bishops, for blessings upon the preparation for the Synod of Bishops, and that the dialogue of those participating in the pre-synod process will bear great fruit for the salvation of souls.
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
Don’t forget to check out 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 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. Come forward after Mass by yourself, or with your family, friends, spouse, or in the place of someone you know who needs prayer. Prayer ministry is for all those in need of prayer, be it for spiritual, physical, or emotional need or thankful praise.
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.
GROW GROUPS | WE CONTINUE TO LAUNCH GROW GROUPS, ONE GROUP AT A TIME Connect withzara@olmercy.comfor any questions.
Mission. This group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints. Website. Proceed here for details. Meets. Tuesdays @ 7pm and twice a month for social gatherings. Connect. Reach out to Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com See what they have been up to at this video.
Mission. Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce. Website. Proceed here for details
Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings. Connect. The group leaders are looking forward to hearing from you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them.
Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com
Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com
Check out the video to find out more about Vine and Branches
GROW YOUR FAITH FREE ONLINE RESOURCES In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.
FORMED.ORG
Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any internet-connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, and studies… there is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.
Check out our “Eucharist Resources” page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives and the great Feast of Corpus Christi.
AMEN – CATHOLIC MEDITATION APP
From Augustine Institutecomes this NEW & FREE Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture. There is also Family Content: Enjoy and share family-favorite audio from the series Brother Francis and the Jesus Stories. Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.
WORD ON FIRE
Did you know that you have complete access to Bishop Barron’s Word on Fire ENGAGE video library! Check out this linkto watch any of the videos whenever you want without ever having to login.
HEROIC MEN
Looking for authentically Catholic content for men? Look no further than HeroicMen.com—the all-new, 100% FREE Catholic streaming platform for men.
Learn about your faith from today’s best Catholic speakers—and do it all from the convenience of home. Stream-on-demand from your phone or tablet, too, for quality Catholic content on the go.
Have you wanted to get to know St. Thomas Aquinas and his writings more so as to grow closer to Jesus? Sign up for any of the short and free courses at Aquinas 101 a project of the Thomistic Institute seeks to promote understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the eminent 13th-century philosopher, and theologian.
Aquinas is a masterful interpreter of reality. His writings assist us in answering perennial questions on topics like God, man, the natural world, law, and morality, and questions of special relevance to our time like the relationship between modern science and faith or pursuing happiness in the digital era.
PASTORAL CARE If you have physical, mental, emotional or spiritual health concerns or questions about end-of-life issues, funeral planning, journeying through grief, caregiving for a loved one or are homebound, please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care for support and resources at jolenel@olmercy.com or 331-707-5380.
OPEN HEARTS MINISTRY
The next scheduled in-person gathering for Open HEARTS Ministry is Monday, November 8 from 7:00pm to 8:30pm in Room 218 in the Parish Life Center. The ministry is for anyone who is interested in emotional and mental health and wellness. The ministry has an interest in decreasing the stigma of mental illness and increasing the awareness of support and resources. The topic of discussion will be on MERCY – God’s mercy and how we are called to live a life of mercy in relationship to our faith and mental health and wellness. If you would like to learn more about the ministry, please send an email to Janice Hurtado Aeppli at olmopenhearts@yahoo.com
RESTORE
Do you find yourself struggling in overcoming your battle with pornography? Restore is a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas as to how to strengthen our resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of pornography addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day.
If you are ready to start breaking free from the grips of pornography and want to Restore your life email us at Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet.
After honoring our dead and hearing this month of the apocalypse (“unveiling”) and end times, this November Sunday closes the Church’s liturgical year with the great feast of “Christ the King.”
Pontius Pilate, and all the political rulers throughout history, have limited power. But we profess faith and loyalty to a King who is truly just, merciful, fatherly, and loving to the point of death. The ancestor of King David, Jesus, fulfilled every prophecy of the Old Testament and desires for us to spread this Good News until His Kingdom might finally be established here on earth.
Jesus declares in our Gospel reading:
“For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth.
Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.”
(John 18)
To prepare our hearts before we go to Holy Mass this weekend, hear Bishop Barron’s thoughts on the divine kingship of Jesus in the video in the Flocknote email.
We look forward to seeing you at any of the Holy Mass times this weekend where Father Don will be preaching. Don’t forget to stop by to visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.
“He who prays for the coming of God’s kingdom prays rightly to have it first within himself.” -Origen, priest and Church Father
THIS COMING WEEK
Holiday Poinsettia Sale 11/20 & 11/21
Our high school teens attending our summer mission trip will be offering beautiful plants for sale after all Masses this weekend and 12/4 & 12/5 in the PLC lobby.
Would you like to brighten up the residents at Alden Nursing home? You can purchase a plant for them at the Poinsettia sale.
If you have any questions, please contact Dave at DaveM@olmercy.com or 331-707-5371. Thank you for supporting our Teen Mission Trip program!
Thanksgiving Mass 11/25
Start Thanksgiving day by joining us in giving thanks to the Lord our God and rejoicing in the gift of His love. We pray to see you at the Thanksgiving Mass at 9am. Invite the college student in your family that is home for Thanksgiving break, it would be great to see them at the Mass as well!
Thanksgiving Holiday Parish Office Hours 11/24
The Parish Offices will close at Noon on Wednesday, 11/24 and re-open on Monday, 11/29. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Ladies Advent Tea 11/28
Please register soon for the annual Ladies’ Advent Tea which will be in-person on Sunday, 11/28 from 2pm to 4:30pm. Email jolenel@omercy.com by 11/22nd.
Please invite your family and friends to be together for an opportunity to prepare our hearts and souls for Christmas
Saying “Yes” to God, inspiration during Advent will be the presentation this year and take place in the church. Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care will facilitate reflections by Catherine Wiecher Brunell, a pastoral minister of the everyday. Those who feel comfortable being around tables will be invited into the multi-purpose room of the Parish Life Center after the presentation for fellowship, reflection, and refreshments. Please bring your favorite teacup or mug for your beverage.
This year refreshments will be provided at the table. Instead of bringing a favorite dessert, bring a copy of your favorite holiday dessert recipe that you may have brought to past Advent teas or a new recipe. The recipes will be put together in a book and shared with those who would like them. Since we were not able to be in person last year, we are looking forward to being together for this special Our Lady of Mercy tradition!
Adopt a Family in Need for Thanksgiving Dinner!
This year for Thanksgiving we are partnering with the Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry and Hesed House to provide families that are currently being assisted by these two organizations with a Thanksgiving dinner!
We are now accepting donations to benefit those families in need of a meal. Parishioners may make donations via our online giving portal under “Angel Giving” or checks can also be made payable to Our Lady of Mercy with “Angel Giving” in the memo and placed inside of the bin in the Narthex after mass. Please contact Lydia Schmitt, in the main office, with additional questions at lydias@olmercy.com or 331-707-5377.
LOOKING AHEAD
Pray and Fast to end Abortion 11/30 & 12/1
There will be an hour of Eucharistic Adoration during confessions on Tuesday evening 11/30th from 7-8pm to pray for the Supreme Court hearing taking place the next day on the landmark case over the right of states to protect mothers and unborn life. Be encouraged to observe a day of prayer and fasting on Wednesday 12/1 as the US Supreme Court hears oral arguments in the case of Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization which could please God, hasten the end of Roe v. Wade, and legalized abortion in the United States.
[Jesus] said to them, “This kind can only come out through prayer and fasting.” – Mark 9:29
Please pray for the Supreme Court Justices, that the Holy Spirit will guide the proceedings and that the Court will find that there is no fundamental right to abortion found in the US Constitution. Also, for the unborn to be recognized as Constitutional Persons and for peace and healing.
Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 12/8
The Mass times for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception are 6:30am, 8am, 12pm and 7pm. We pray to see you at any of the Mass times; let us rejoice with the Immaculate Mother of God, for it is through her intercession that God has bestowed every spiritual blessing upon us.
God chose Mary, the Immaculate Conception, to be our “model of holiness” by preserving her entirely from original sin, making her all-pure and all-holy. In doing this God also shows us what is possible for us, too, wounded by sin—the healing and restoration of our whole humanity. The intercession and maternal love of the Immaculate One, given to us as our Mother, is the special way God has chosen to bestow upon us the grace of such a healing. As the Mother of our Savior, Mary shares uniquely in His redemptive sacrifice. We turn to her with confidence, for she is “our life, our sweetness, and our hope.” Immaculate Mary, pray for us!
Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass 12/12
The Mass for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be at 2pm on Sunday 12/12 in Spanish. We hope to see you at the Mass which commemorates this wonderful feast day of the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patron saint of the Americas who appeared to Juan Diego in Mexico City in 1531.
Christmas With The Chosen: The Messengers 12/15
Save the date on Wednesday 12/15th at 6:30pm because we will be showing the movie that is on limited release in the theaters here at Our Lady of Mercy!
This is the perfect opportunity to bring friends and family, including those who haven’t seen The Chosen, those who have not been to Church in a while, and those who don’t know Jesus, for a unique Christmas story experience.
The Simbang Gabi Filipino tradition of celebrating devotional Mass in preparation for the coming of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ will be held on Saturday 12/18 at 6pm with fellowship and light refreshment after Mass.
Come and join the Filipino community at the Simbang Gabi Mass which invites all of us to nurture the spirit of Advent not only as individual preparation but to prepare as a community, a family of God united in worship and in prayer. We bring our families and friends to the Eucharist, joining the entire community in waiting, and being strengthened by God’s Spirit in preparing for the birth of Jesus.
May those experiencing grief and loss at Christmas, find hope and peace in this prayer service and comfort in knowing that you are not alone. It is a time to listen, pray and feel the love of God.
The Blue Christmas Prayer Service will be in the church on Sunday, 12/19 from 3pm to 4pm. Please connect with Jolene LeRoy at 331-707-5380 or jolenel@olmercy.com for more details.
Free Throw Championship 1/22/2022
On Saturday 1/22/2022 at 9am is the Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus #12005 Free Throw Championship in the gym at the Parish Life Center. Registration begins at 8:45am
All boys and girls aged 9 to 14, as of 1/1/2022, are invited to participate, please present proof of age during registration with written parental consent. Participants will compete in their respective age divisions, with the winners advancing to the district, region, and state competitions. All contestants at this local event will be recognized for their participation. The District competition will take place in February at a to be determined location. For additional information call (630) 957-7559
Advent Christmas Schedule
The full details for the Advent Christmas and Reconciliation schedule will be posted in the next weekly update.
The Synod on Synodality is a two-year process of listening and dialogue that began with a solemn opening in Rome in October and will conclude in 2023.
Let us be in prayer for Bishop Hicks and all the Bishops, for blessings upon the preparation for the Synod of Bishops, and that the dialogue of those participating in the pre-synod process will bear great fruit for the salvation of souls.
Plenary Indulgence any day in the month of November
Did you know that you can get a plenary indulgence any day this November? It’s true. The Vatican has decided to grant Catholics who visit a cemetery to pray for the faithful departed on any day in the month of November a plenary indulgence.
Usually, the Catholic Church only grants this plenary indulgence for the souls in Purgatory to those who pray in a cemetery on November 1-8, which is the week of the Solemnity of All Souls’ Day.
The specific November 2 plenary indulgence one can obtain for the souls in Purgatory by visiting a church or an oratory and reciting an Our Father and the Creed, can now also be done on any day in November.
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.
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.
Don’t forget to check out 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 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. Come forward after Mass by yourself, or with your family, friends, spouse, or in the place of someone you know who needs prayer. Prayer ministry is for all those in need of prayer, be it for spiritual, physical, or emotional need or thankful praise.
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.
GROW GROUPS | WE CONTINUE TO LAUNCH GROW GROUPS, ONE GROUP AT A TIME Connect withzara@olmercy.comfor any questions.
Mission. This group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints. Website. Proceed here for details. Meets. Tuesdays @ 7pm and twice a month for social gatherings. Connect. Reach out to Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com See what they have been up to at this video.
Mission. Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce. Website. Proceed here for details
Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings. Connect. The group leaders are looking forward to hearing from you, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them.
Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com
Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com
Check out the video to find out more about Vine and Branches
GROW YOUR FAITH FREE ONLINE RESOURCES In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.
FORMED.ORG
Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any internet-connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, and studies… there is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.
Check out our “Eucharist Resources” page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives and the great Feast of Corpus Christi.
AMEN – CATHOLIC MEDITATION APP
From Augustine Institutecomes this NEW & FREE Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture. There is also Family Content: Enjoy and share family-favorite audio from the series Brother Francis and the Jesus Stories. Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.
WORD ON FIRE
Did you know that you have complete access to Bishop Barron’s Word on Fire ENGAGE video library! Check out this linkto watch any of the videos whenever you want without ever having to login.
HEROIC MEN
Looking for authentically Catholic content for men? Look no further than HeroicMen.com—the all-new, 100% FREE Catholic streaming platform for men.
Learn about your faith from today’s best Catholic speakers—and do it all from the convenience of home. Stream-on-demand from your phone or tablet, too, for quality Catholic content on the go.
Have you wanted to get to know St. Thomas Aquinas and his writings more so as to grow closer to Jesus? Sign up for any of the short and free courses at Aquinas 101 a project of the Thomistic Institute seeks to promote understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the eminent 13th-century philosopher, and theologian.
Aquinas is a masterful interpreter of reality. His writings assist us in answering perennial questions on topics like God, man, the natural world, law, and morality, and questions of special relevance to our time like the relationship between modern science and faith or pursuing happiness in the digital era.
CATHOLIC APOLOGETICS CONFERENCE
BE EQUIPPED TO DEFEND THE FAITH!
There are no shortages of assaults on the Church today. In a world of increasing challengers to the Faith, we need to know, now more than ever, why we believe what we believe.
This conference is about answering your tough questions on the Catholic Faith and equipping you with the knowledge to withstand the challenges that are sure to come. Details and registration for this FREE virtual conference are found here.
PASTORAL CARE If you have physical, mental, emotional or spiritual health concerns or questions about end-of-life issues, funeral planning, journeying through grief, caregiving for a loved one or are homebound, please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Parish Nurse and Director of Pastoral Care for support and resources at jolenel@olmercy.com or 331-707-5380.
OPEN HEARTS MINISTRY
The next scheduled in-person gathering for Open HEARTS Ministry is Monday, November 8 from 7:00pm to 8:30pm in Room 218 in the Parish Life Center. The ministry is for anyone who is interested in emotional and mental health and wellness. The ministry has an interest in decreasing the stigma of mental illness and increasing the awareness of support and resources. The topic of discussion will be on MERCY – God’s mercy and how we are called to live a life of mercy in relationship to our faith and mental health and wellness. If you would like to learn more about the ministry, please send an email to Janice Hurtado Aeppli at olmopenhearts@yahoo.com
RESTORE
Do you find yourself struggling in overcoming your battle with pornography? Restore is a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas as to how to strengthen our resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of pornography addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day.
If you are ready to start breaking free from the grips of pornography and want to Restore your life email us at Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet.
