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.
We have a strange fascination with the apocalypse.
Whether it’s movies based on natural disasters, post-nuclear landscapes, or zombie outbreaks, there’s something strange and unnerving about “the End Times.”
The truest biblical understanding of “Apocalypse” though is “Unveiling,” as a bride is unveiled on her wedding day, a moment of revealing (and thus, “Revelation”). “Eye has not seen and ear has not heard,” tells us what our new reality will be, a time when we are reunited with our bodies, and God’s kingdom is finally established without any trace of evil or sin.
In our Gospel this weekend Jesus affirms:
“Heaven and earth will pass away,
but my words will not pass away.
But of that day or hour, no one knows,
neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”
(Mark 13)
To prepare our hearts before we go to Holy Mass this weekend and to break open that we are dealing with a great mystery here and this is why we are fascinated with the end times, hear Bishop Barron’s thoughts on the reality of Heaven in the video in the Flocknote email.
We look forward to seeing you at any of the Holy Mass times this weekend where we will hear from visiting priest from Malawi, Africa Reverend Father Kamia Tambala, who will be preaching this weekend. Don’t forget to stop by to visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.
“There, goodwill shall be so ordered in us that we shall have no other desire than to remain there eternally.” –St. Augustine
THIS COMING WEEK
This Weekend at all masses, Reverend Father Francis Kamia Tambala
Father Francis will be at OLM throughout the weekend to help celebrate Mass and offer a brief homily message followed by a short presentation on the Transformation Through Education Initiative (TTE).
The TTE seeks to provide quality education to boys and girls in Namulenga Parish, Archdiocese of Blantyre, Malawi. The project strives to contribute to the improvement of the poor standards of high school education prevalent in the community day high schools in the remote areas of the Archdiocese of Blantyre.
The mission, therefore, appeals to all people of goodwill to give towards the realization of an education facility at Namulenga Parish which can contribute to the good learning environment of the boys and girls who can later contribute to their own development and the development of their country, Malawi.
Please consider this opportunity to make a sacrificial gift in support of this effort via the second collection or using the envelope that will be provided. Or https://www.osvhub.com/olmercy/funds
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
AMA with Father James on 11/16
The next AMA with Father James is taking place with the Consuming Fire Young Adult Group so tune in on Tuesday 11/16th @ 7pm and see what questions they have and see if your questions are the ones he will answer.
The last MAGNIFY of the year will be this Weds 11/17th @ 7pm. Bring your family and friends for a scriptural reflection, Confessions, Prayer Ministry, adoration, and praise. Come and dwell in Jesus’ very presence and let us “sing psalms, and hymns and songs from the spirit, singing and making music from your heart to the Lord.” Ephesians 5:16
LOOKING AHEAD
Young Men Ages 14 through 18 hang out with the Seminarians at “Quo Vadis” on 11/20
To all young men in high school, 14 through 18 years old, come out on Saturday 11/20th from 10am to 1:30pm
Join Father Steven Borello and the Diocese of Joliet Seminarians for prayer & adoration, bowling & pizza social at St Ambrose in Crest Hill. Proceed to this link for more information, parent permission forms, and registration.
Thanksgiving Mass 11/25
Consider beginning your day of giving thanks by going to the Thanksgiving Mass at 9am.
Ladies Advent Tea 11/28
Please save the date for the annual Ladies’ Advent Tea which will be in-person on Sunday,11/28 from 2pm to 4:30pm.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sometimes it’s easy to give. Our finances are steady, our time is abundant, and we have the energy to spare.
Sometimes it hurts to give. Times are tight, we feel stressed and burdened, and life seems to be against us.
Do we still give, even when it hurts? It’s easy to give out of surplus, but it becomes a true act of trust in God when we give out of our poverty, even the poverty of our being.
In our Gospel this weekend Jesus states it clearly:
“Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.” (Mark 12:38-44)
To prepare our hearts before we go to Holy Mass this weekend and to lean in on the saints who are the “friends of God” who have gone before us and who we can imitate in their utter generosity, hear Bishop Barron’s description of the love of the saints on the Flocknote email.
We look forward to seeing you at any of the Holy Mass times this weekend where Deacon Tom will be preaching, or stop by to visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.
THIS COMING WEEK
Open HEARTS Ministry 11/8
The next scheduled in-person gathering for Open HEARTS is Monday, 11/8 from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 218 in the Parish Life Center. The ministry is for anyone who has an interest in increasing the awareness of mental health and mental illness and sharing resources and experiences with others. 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
This Tuesday 11/9 is the start of the next Bible Study, a Biblical Walk through the Mass
Is the Catholic Mass biblical? Or ever wonder what the words, gestures, and rituals in the Catholic Mass mean? Do you have a Protestant or a Christian friend from another denomination that has questioned if the Catholic Mass is biblical? Invite them to come with you or go to this Bible Study to find out.
Meet Jesus in Scripture Bible Study @ OLM presents A BIBLICAL WALK THROUGH THE MASS by Edward Sri. Register at this link for this awesome study
A Biblical Walk Through the Mass explores the extraordinary biblical roots of the Liturgy and reveals what it all means and why it all matters. This fascinating tour of the Mass will renew your faith and deepen your love for and devotion to the Holy Eucharist.
This 6 weeks Bible Study will take place every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm starting 11/9th through 12/14th in the PLC. At the last class, Dr. Edward Sri will be hosting the class and a Q&A session from all who sign up for this 6-week study.
Check out the trailer below. Looking forward to discovering the beauty and the riches of the Mass with you soon!
Coping with Grief and Loss During the Holiday Season Gatherings starts 11/9
Coping with Grief and Loss During the Holiday Season will take place in Room 124 on Tuesday, 11/9 from 7pm to 8:30pm; Saturday, 11/20 from 9:30am to 11:00am; Wednesday, 12/15 from 7pm to 8:30pm. You can attend any or all sessions.
For some, holidays are a time to celebrate and get together with family and friends. For others, holidays are difficult and not a time to celebrate as they are dealing with feelings of sadness, loss, and emptiness. If you are looking for support to help you cope with grief during the holiday season, please consider attending. And if you know of someone that would be helped by these gatherings, please let them know.
Catholic Man Night on Wednesday 11/10
To all the men, Father Burke and Father Don are inviting you to come out this Wednesday at 5:30pm here at Our Lady of Mercy for the Catholic Man Night.
The theme of the evening is “Claiming Greatness”
Starts with Adoration and Confession 5:30pm to 6:50pm
followed by Mass with an inspirational homily at 7pm.
Schedule to donate blood at this link on Saturday 11/13 from 8am to 12pm. Every donor will save up to 3 lives!
While appointments are appreciated, walk-ins are welcome!
You DO NOT NEED the Covid-19 vaccine in order to donate.
Please make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating. Thank you!
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.
The next AMA with Father James is taking place with the Consuming Fire Young Adult Group so tune in on Tuesday 11/16th @ 7pm and see what questions they have and see if your questions are the ones he will answer.
Please save the date for the annual Ladies’ Advent Tea on Sunday, 11/28 from 2pm to 4:30pm. Plans are for an in-person event in the church and the PLC. Details to follow.
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.
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.
Young Men Ages 7th Grade and Older, Save the Date for Thursday 1/4/2022
Think of the image of empty black shoes at the center aisle of a church.
Who Will Fill These Shoes? The image of empty shoes, a priest’s shoes, laying there by the altar. It is a sharp reminder to all of us that without priests, there will be no Eucharist.
To all young men ages 7th Grade and older, please come to a day about the priesthood at the Blanchette Catholic Center from 9am to 3pm. There is no cost to attend. Please register through vocations@dioceseofjoliet.org or call 815-221.6141
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.
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
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 with zara@olmercy.com for 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.
What do we love the most? Our health? Our career? Our reputation or status online?
Where is our love directed? Christian writer and former atheist C.S. Lewis wrote that we need to, “Put first things first and we get second things thrown in: put second things first & we lose both first and second things.”
The message of our Gospel echoes this message as well as the words of Moses from our First Reading this weekend:
“Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD alone! Therefore, you shall love the LORD, your God, with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6)
What’s more, Jesus challenges His followers to also, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12). When we love rightly, all other activities fall into place and we must prepare ourselves for the eternal life to come.
To prepare our hearts before we go to Holy Mass this weekend and to get a glimpse of how Catholics understand “The Last Things” watch the short video from poet, actor, and friend of Word on Fire Jonathan Roumie who plays Jesus in ‘The Chosen’ series on the Flocknote email.
We look forward to seeing you at any of the Holy Mass times this weekend where the presider of each Mass will be preaching, or stop by to visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.
And praise God, Father Don is safely back from his cross-country road trip with Chardonnay!
THIS COMING WEEK
Sunday Mass Times and the Solemnity of All Saints
Please note the (4pm on Saturday), 8am, 10am and 12:30pm is for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time.
The 5:30pm Mass time is for the Solemnity of All Saints.
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.
Thank you for your generosity that helps support the life-saving work of Waterleaf advocating for the innocent unborn who can’t speak for themselves.
The Day of the Dead Altar will be at the Narthex through 11/2
The Day of the Dead Altar to pray and remember our dearly departed loved ones will be in the Narthex from 10/30 through 11/2. If you haven’t done so already, please bring and drop off the photo of your loved ones who have passed in the basket in front of the Our Lady of Guadalupe portrait.
Place the picture in a zip lock bag with your name and phone number on the back of the photo and on the zip lock bag for easy return on 11/3. https://bit.ly/DayoftheDead2021
All Soul’s Day Mass of Remembrance 11/2
Join us at 7pm in-person or at the live stream, in praying for those who have died and for all souls in purgatory. Members of our parish and loved ones of our parishioners will be remembered in a special way at this All Souls Day Mass. Grief Support materials will be available. As part of the tradition at Our Lady of Mercy, there will be candles to take home to remember your loved one in a special way. https://youtu.be/ouNiX-N9kQo
PADS 11/2
PADS will be on Tuesday 11/2 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
Surviving Divorce Program starts 11/3
Is anyone in your family divorced? Or do you know someone that could be helped by this program? Please share this information with them.
Vine & Branches is hosting the program “Surviving Divorce” that features twelve video presentations that cover topics such as shock and grief, anger and forgiveness, money issues, dealing with children and a former spouse, and annulment and remarriage. Check out this video for detailed information on topics and presenters.
Respect Life 1st Friday Devotion on 11/5 from 8am to 4pm
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 11/6 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 11/6
On Saturday, 11/6 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.
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.
Register now for the next Bible Study, a Biblical Walk through the Mass
Is the Catholic Mass biblical? Or ever wonder what the words, gestures, and rituals in the Catholic Mass mean? Do you have a Protestant or a Christian friend from another denomination that has questioned if the Catholic Mass is biblical? Invite them to come with you or go to this Bible Study to find out.
Meet Jesus in Scripture Bible Study @ OLM presents A BIBLICAL WALK THROUGH THE MASS by Edward Sri. Register at this link for this awesome study
A Biblical Walk Through the Mass explores the extraordinary biblical roots of the Liturgy and reveals what it all means and why it all matters. This fascinating tour of the Mass will renew your faith and deepen your love for and devotion to the Holy Eucharist.
This 6 weeks Bible Study will take place every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm starting 11/9th through 12/14th in the PLC. At the last class, Dr. Edward will be hosting the class and a Q&A session from all who sign up for this 6-week study.
Check out the trailer below. Looking forward to discovering the beauty and the riches of the Mass with you soon!
Open HEARTS Ministry 11/8
The next scheduled in-person gathering for Open HEARTS is Monday, 11/8 from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 218 in the Parish Life Center. The ministry is for anyone who has an interest in increasing the awareness of mental health and mental illness and sharing resources and experiences with others. 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
Coping with Grief and Loss During the Holiday Season Gatherings starts 11/9
Coping with Grief and Loss During the Holiday Season will take place in Room 124 on Tuesday, 11/9 from 7pm to 8:30pm; Saturday, 11/20 from 9:30am to 11:00am; Wednesday, 12/15 from 7pm to 8:30pm. You can attend any or all sessions.
For some, holidays are a time to celebrate and get together with family and friends. For others, holidays are difficult and not a time to celebrate as they are dealing with feelings of sadness, loss, and emptiness. If you are looking for support to help you cope with grief during the holiday season, please consider attending. And if you know of someone that would be helped by these gatherings, please let them know.
St. Vincent DePaul Truck at OLM 11/6 and 11/7
The St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) truck will be in our parking lot 11/6 and 11/7 for the clothing drive. Pick up one of the SVDP bags to place your donated items. Clear out your closets for a good cause; the items are sold at reasonable prices at thrift shops so needy families can shop with dignity. The sale proceeds from the thrift shops go into a general assistance fund where parishes source help for families needing assistance with rent, mortgage, or utility assistance.
Knights of Columbus Blood Drive 11/13
Schedule to donate blood at this link on Saturday 11/13 from 8am to 12pm. Every donor will save up to 3 lives!
While appointments are appreciated, walk-ins are welcome!
You DO NOT NEED the Covid-19 vaccine in order to donate.
Please make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating. Thank you!
Ladies Advent Tea 11/28
Please save the date for the annual Ladies’ Advent Tea on Sunday, 11/28 from 2pm to 4:30pm. Plans are for an in-person event in the church and the PLC. Details to follow.
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 lydias@olmercy.com or 331-707-5377.
Young Men Ages 7th Grade and Older, Save the Date for Thursday 1/4/2022
Think of the image of empty black shoes at the center aisle of a church.
Who Will Fill These Shoes? The image of empty shoes, a priest’s shoes, laying there by the altar. It is a sharp reminder to all of us that without priests, there will be no Eucharist.
To all young men ages 7th Grade and older, please come to a day about the priesthood at the Blanchette Catholic Center from 9am to 3pm. There is no cost to attend. Please register through vocations@dioceseofjoliet.org or call 815-221.6141
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.
Don’t forget to check out Father Don’s insightful weekly Bulletin article located here. This week our guest writer is Father James whose article is titled “Ghostbusters.”
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
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 with zara@olmercy.com for 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 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.
Is power meant for its own sake? Is authority solely to boss others around?
For the Christian, power is meant to be used to serve others and any authority we receive is meant to bring about good for the least around us.
“For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many,” Jesus tells His disciples who are vying for the VIP seats in His heavenly kingdom. Jesus’ mission was to die a lonely, humiliating death, a mission that would, through His sufferings, warrant for us new life.
As St. Paul tells us, “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help!” (Hebrews 4).
To prepare our hearts before we go to Holy Mass this weekend and to get a glimpse of how Catholics understand the story of salvation, watch this short video from Matt Nelson from the Word on Fire Institute on the Flocknote email.
We look forward to seeing you at any of the Holy Mass times this weekend where the presider of each Mass will be preaching, or stop by to visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.
THIS COMING WEEK
Bishop Hicks celebrating Mass at 2pm 10/17
In preparation for the work of the upcoming Synod of Bishops scheduled for 2023, Bishop Hicks (and every Diocese in the world) will gather on Sunday, 10/17th to celebrate a Mass to begin praying for blessings upon the preparation for the Synod and upon the Diocesan consultation that will take place in each Diocese.
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.
PIE ordering time weekends of 10/16 & 10/17 and 10/23 & 24
It’s Pie Ordering time to help support the Teen Mission Trip to Ohio. At the next two weekends, teens will be taking pie orders after all the Mass times. Order your pies in time for your Thanksgiving celebration, pick up will be on Saturday 11/20th.
You may also buy a pie for the Hesed House residents that we’ll deliver there for you!
For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers. Come to the In-Person St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 10/19th following the 6:30pm Mass.
The In-Person St. Peregrine Prayer Service is hosted by Deacon Tony Leazzo and Jolene LeRoy RN Director of Pastoral Care. St. Peregrine is the patron saint of the sick, especially those suffering from cancer, serious illness, or chronic illness. The prayer service is for the intention of those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers.
Altar Server and Senior Servers “Refresher” Training 10/23rd
There will be “refresher” training for all Altar Servers and Senior Servers on Saturday, 10/23, following the 4pm Mass. Please come if you have questions about the new procedures and would like to review them.
Supporting OLM through the CMAA
Thank you to those who have pledged! We are so close to our parish goal, we are almost there! Help us meet our goal; please support Our Lady of Mercy by supporting the Diocesan Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal (CMAA).
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.
Register now for the next Bible Study, a Biblical Walk through the Mass
Is the Catholic Mass biblical? Or ever wonder what the words, gestures, and rituals in the Catholic Mass mean? Do you have a Protestant or a Christian friend from another denomination that has questioned if the Catholic Mass is biblical? Invite them to come with you or go to this Bible Study to find out.
Meet Jesus in Scripture Bible Study @ OLM presents A BIBLICAL WALK THROUGH THE MASS by Edward Sri. Register at this link for this awesome study
A Biblical Walk Through the Mass explores the extraordinary biblical roots of the Liturgy and reveals what it all means and why it all matters. This fascinating tour of the Mass will renew your faith and deepen your love for and devotion to the Holy Eucharist.
This 6 weeks Bible Study will take place every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm starting 11/9th through 12/14th in the PLC.
Purchase the $14 study guide https://bit.ly/BiblicalMassStudyGuide (However, if the study guide is a financial hardship, please connect with zara@olmercy.com)
Check out the trailer below. Looking forward to discovering the beauty and the riches of the Mass with you soon!
Brogan Family Coat Drive 10/24
Mike and Carole Brogan were icons at Our Lady of Mercy. Both passed away in 2019. One of the ways they supported our parish was a yearly coat drive. They would literally pack up their car with donations to the point that they could barely see out of their car windows.
Once again this year the Brogan Family and our church would like to continue this mission by asking for donations of new and gently used coats, hats, boots, and gloves. The donations for women and children will benefit Mutual Ground and the donations for men’s items will benefit Breaking Free.
The collection will be on Sunday, October 24 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. A trailer will be in the OLM parking lot accepting the donations.
Knights of Columbus Sunday Pancake Breakfast 10/24
Support the Knights of Columbus “Coats for Kids” Charity Campaign by joining them for a delicious pancake breakfast on Sunday 10/24 from 8am to 12pm in the gym.
Dine-in or take out, have some pancakes, eggs, sausage with coffee, tea or juice. Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for children 10 years old and under, free for children younger than 3 years old!
World Mission Sunday 10/24
World Mission Sunday, our annual celebration of the Church’s global missions, will take place on October 24 this year. This is an opportunity for us to become missionaries by strengthening the Church abroad putting our faith into action by supporting World Mission Sunday. The second collection taken up will serve to strengthen more than 1,000 local churches in Asia, Africa the Pacific Islands, and parts of Latin America and Europe. Through the work of these churches and their witness to Christ, the poor receive practical help and experience God’s Love, mercy, and peace.
Sing your heart out to Jesus at MAGNIFY 10/27
Amen, we can now sing to Jesus through our masks! Scripture reflection by Father James, adoration praise, and worship by Josh Goodman and his full worship band, confessions, and prayer ministry. Save the date, bring the children, bring a friend and see you then.
Aurora Central Catholic High School Open House 10/28
Aurora Central Catholic High School (ACC) is happy to welcome parents and prospective students to an Open House, on Thursday 10/28th from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. Families come out and find out why you should consider the immeasurable value of a Catholic primary and secondary education. Come to the Open House where you have an opportunity to tour their state-of-the-art campus and meet with ACC’s faculty and staff, representatives from various clubs and athletic teams.
ACC is a college-preparatory high school since 1926 with an enrollment of about 500 students, offering students a spiritual and educational foundation for life-long learning.
Trunk or Treating 10/30
TRUNK or TREATING w/the SAINTS is on Saturday 10/30 from 1:30pm to 3:30pm. Parents and children, come out and get to know the heroes of our church, see which saint is representing!
Social distancing protocols in place.
Volunteers are still needed, please consider helping out bringing joy to the children at this fun ‘Saint-filled’ gathering. Connect with maryjot@olmercy.com.
Day of the Dead Altar Picture Drop Off 10/30 to 11/2
Join us to pray and remember our loved ones who have passed away. Please drop off the photo of your loved ones who have passed away in a ziplock bag, placing them in a basket located on the front desk of the hallway. Please don’t forget to include your name and contact information in both the photo and the bag.
Waterleaf Baby Bottles for Life return by 10/31
Please return all donations in baby bottles or envelopes in the collection basket by the narthex. Donations will be collected in the narthex until October 31. Thank you for your generosity.
Charismatic Healing Mass 11/6
On Saturday, November 6th 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.
Open HEARTS Ministry 11/8
The next scheduled in-person gathering for Open HEARTS is Monday, November 8 from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 218 in the Parish Life Center. The ministry is for anyone who has an interest in increasing the awareness of mental health and mental illness and sharing resources and experiences with others. 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
St. Vincent DePaul Truck at OLM – 11/6 and 11/7
The St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) truck will be in our parking lot 11/6 and 11/7 for the clothing drive. Pick up one of the SVDP bags to place your donated items. Clear out your closets for a good cause; the items are sold at reasonable prices at thrift shops so needy families can shop with dignity. The sale proceeds from the thrift shops go into a general assistance fund where parishes source help for families needing assistance with rent, mortgage, or utility assistance.
Knights of Columbus Blood Drive 11/13
Schedule to donate blood at this link on Saturday 11/13 from 8am to 12pm. Every donor will save up to 3 lives!
While appointments are appreciated, walk-ins are welcome!
You DO NOT NEED the Covid-19 vaccine in order to donate.
Please make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating. Thank you!
The weekend of September 11-12, Ertha Papillon, the founder, and director of an orphanage and school for the poorest of the poor in Duchity, Haiti, spoke at all the Masses. She sent the following thank you to the Our Lady of Mercy Community.
Dear Fr. Don, Parish Staff, and Parishioners,
Thank you, my brothers and sisters, from the bottom of my heart for your kindness and generosity that you showed to me during my visit to your parish. You truly have a wonderful, welcoming community of faith!
I am now back in my beloved country of Haiti and I carry you in my heart. Thank you for your warmth, kindness, prayers, and financial assistance at this very difficult time in the life of Haitians. The Earthquake hit our area of Haiti very hard, and there is much work to be done, but you have given us hope! With your assistance, we can now begin to repair the school roofs, and care for the many needs of the children in the orphanage. God’s grace was showered upon us by your wonderful parish community! God is always faithful!
Please continue to pray for us. The road ahead is difficult, but we know if we pray for
each other, God will bless Our Lady of Mercy Parish and Our Lady of Perpetual Help
School and Orphanage in Haiti. We will continue to pray for Fr. Don and your entire faith community. I say thank you in Haitian Creole. Mesi anpil!
God bless you,
Ertha
___
As a sidenote, the parish collection for Ertha’s mission in Haiti totaled $38,333
There was also a $5,000 donation (not included in above total) from a former parishioner who lives out of state and was watching our livestream Mass the weekend Ertha spoke.
“Mesi anpil!”
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 at MAGNIFY 10/27 and after all Mass times 10/30 &10/31
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 with zara@olmercy.com for 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 Institute comes this 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.
We believe that all life is sacred, and that every person is created in the image and likeness of God. We must share the good news that every person is loved by God and that we are called to defend the dignity of life from conception until natural death.
Be encouraged to engage in one or several of the following ways to be an advocate for the innocent unborn who can’t speak for themselves, pray for the sanctity of life. Please also share this message with anyone you know who is able to help or would like to participate.
Waterleaf
3055 E. New York Street
Aurora, IL 60504
630.701.6270
HELP FOR MEN, WOMEN, AND FAMILIES RECOVER AFTER AN ABORTION
You may feel alone. Maybe your abortion was some time ago, and you never told anyone.
At the time, you may have felt like abortion was your only choice. Some of us felt that way too. Many of us thought we were the only ones struggling afterwards.
But now we realize that other women regret their choice too. We’re now learning that abortion didn’t solve our problems, it just created different ones that it has a deep ripple effect. You may have chosen abortion personally, lost a child to abortion, or your life has been profoundly affected by abortion. SaveOne can help you through the healing process. Click here to start your journey today.
Many of us know well this teaching from Christ in our Gospel this weekend. How many of us though take Him seriously?
It’s easy to note the problematic areas of our life and our habitual sin, but it takes work, (both from submitting to God and our own efforts), to identify and ROOT out our sources of sin. The trappings of this earth will pass away; do we take seriously the health of our souls?
To prepare our hearts before we go to Holy Mass this weekend and to learn more about how God calls us to be fully alive in our relationship with Christ watch this short video from Father Stephen Gadberry (a veteran of the US Air Force, Cross-Fit coach, and pastor of St. Mary’s) on the Flocknote email.
We look forward to seeing you at any of the Holy Mass times this weekend wherein the Deacons will be preaching, or stop by to visit Jesus at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel or at daily Mass during the week.
THIS COMING WEEK
Prayer Ministry after all Mass times 9/25 & 9/26
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.
Pray for Father Don through 9/30
Please keep Father Don in your prayers for the success of the radioactive iodine ablation treatment for his thyroid cancer. He began his isolation on Weds 9/22 through Thurs 9/30 https://bit.ly/PrayForFrDon
Pray for the Joliet Diocese Priests 9/27 through 9/30
Please also pray for the priests of our Joliet Diocese who will be on a convocation with Bishop HIcks from September 27 – 30. The Joliet priest convocation is held every other year, and this will be the first time with our new bishop.
Last week to join Alpha this Weds or Thurs 9/29 or 9/30
It’s not too late to join Online Alpha on Wednesdays at 7pm or In-Person Alpha on Thursdays @ 6:30pm
Join almost 100 people this Alpha season as they meet Jesus, renew their faith, or explore the questions that have been on their hearts.
Just show up to the in-person Alpha on Thursday at 6:30pm or register ahead of time.
Don’t underestimate what a massive impact a simple invitation can achieve, recall Joe’s story below of the invitation he received to Alpha. Who will you invite to Alpha this season? Share the invite graphic or pick up an invitation to hand out.
Bishop Hicks Column & One Year Anniversary 9/29
It’s Bishop Hicks’ 1 year anniversary, please check out his new monthly column where he reflects upon his one-year anniversary on Sept. 29 of being installed as the bishop of Joliet.
Respect Life 1st Friday Devotion on 10/1 from 8am to 4pm
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 10/2 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.
Blessing of Animals 10/2
We are paws-itively excited about our annual Pet Blessing this weekend! Join us on Saturday, October 2nd at 1pm in the circle drive to have your pet blessed, in honor of St. Francis of Assisi!
St. Francis, whose feast day is October 4th, gained special recognition for his love of nature and animals, and many stories tell of him “preaching to the birds” when a group of noisy swallows was disturbing his preaching. The birds immediately fell silent and stood all around him, listening intently as he spoke of God’s majesty.
OLM PRAYER VIGIL OCT 1 (7 AM – 7 PM) We will be distributing Prayer Commitment Cards at all masses this weekend and next weekend.
ANNUAL OCTOBER WHITE CROSS MEMORIAL FOR ABORTION VICTIMS SET UP ON 9/25 AFTERNOON All help in setting up the crosses, banners and lighting for the White Cross Memorial for the Victims of Abortion is much appreciated. We usually start about 1pm and try to finish before the 4pm Mass. The more helping hands, the faster we are done! This would be a great way to help fulfill service hours for teens.
Flu Shot Clinic at Our Lady of Mercy Church 10/3
Sunday October 3 2021 from 8:30am to 11:30am
Located in the Ministry Room of the Narthex of Church
Provided by AMITA Health Mercy Medical Center Health Institute
Cost: $25 (cash, check or Medicare Part B – please bring your Medicare card)
Walk-ins are welcome. If you would like to register for the clinic or have questions, please contact Jolene LeRoy RN atjolenel@olmercy.comor call 331-707-5380.
EDGE Night 10/4
Families with students in grades 6, 7, or 8 are invited to EDGE NIGHTS the next is on Monday, October 4h! EDGE meets twice a month on Monday evenings from 6:30-8:00 pm in the Parish Life Center. We will have large group activities, games, prayer time, small group faith lessons, and a chance to grow in our Catholic faith with other teens your own age! Check out our EDGE webpage for details and session dates:https://olmercy.com/formation/edge/. Please register online as a family here:https://olmercy.com/family-registration-2021-2022/
EDGE Nights are also in need of adults and high school teens to help with various small groups and activities throughout the year. Please consider this awesome ministry to get involved with and contact Dave in the Youth & Family Office at 331-707-5371 or DaveM@olmercy.com
Speaker at Vines & Branches on 10/6
Is there life after divorce?
Vines and Branches are hosting a speaker who will share his story of isolation, loss of relationship with his children, loss of finances, of friendships, faith, feeling different about being at church, and living through what the new normal is.
Come and hear from Mike Maude as he shares his story and answers the question “Is there life after divorce?” with a resounding Yes there absolutely is!
Come to OLM on Wednesday 10/6th @ 7:15pm, please share this invitation with anyone you know who is going through a difficult time right now in their divorce.
Happy 40th Anniversary of Father Don’s Priesthood 10/10
Come and celebrate Father Don’s 40 years of the gift of his priestly ministry!
Father Don will be offering a Mass of Thanksgiving on Sunday at 2pm with hors d’oeuvre reception immediately after. He hopes to see you there.
To prepare adequately for the reception, please RSVP by 9/30 to frdon@olmercy.com
Also at all the Mass times on 10/9 and 10/10
Father Don will be preaching
And there will be a coffee and donuts reception in the PLC; please stop by after Mass to greet Father Don.
In addition, if you would like to greet Father Don with a Happy Anniversary video shout-out and well wishes, please submit with the following guidance
10 – 15 seconds video (longer videos are harder to email and upload)
Landscape / horizontal orientation
Virtual Faith, Family and Financial Security 10/13
The Knights of Columbus will be sponsoring a virtual Faith, Family, and Financial Security event on 10/13 available to all in the Parish. Register for this free event at this link.
The topic is “Financial Success Under Any Circumstance” which will cover compelling questions that will help you clarify how to have financial and retirement success such as
How can you maximize your social security?
Do you prefer to build a legacy for your family and business or the Internal Revenue Service?
If there was a way to reduce or eliminate the income tax liability on your IRA or 401K, when would you want to know about it. Before or after they charge the tax?
Can you build a wonderful retirement income if interest rates remain at zero and the stock market offers zero return for a decade?
Eucharistic Procession for Life 10/16th
1pm start at Benet Academy | Welcome, Speakers and Prayer
2pm Eucharistic Procession through Lisle & Naperville with Rosary
3:30pm Closing Benediction at Sts. Peter and Paul Church
Guests include
Redwing for Life Leaders
Featuring Benet’s Redwings for Life Leaders as the pro life generation who will speak on the many aspects of forming pro life thought, winning the hearts and minds of individuals in order to build families and communities which respect life in all ages and stages! St. Joseph pray for us!
Students for Life of America
The nation’s largest youth pro-life organization
Undy Sunday 10/16 – 10/17
Did you know that NEW underwear and socks are the most-requested, but least-donated items at Catholic Charities? These basic items (new underwear, warm socks, a fresh diaper) are truly treasures to those who are living in poverty.
Collection Boxes will be placed in the Narthex for NEW underwear, undershirts, socks, and diapers for children and adults living in low-income householdswith the following special request
If you’d prefer to send a monetary donation, please mail it to:
Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet/Undy Sunday
16555 Weber Road, Crest Hill, IL 60403
Bishop Hicks Celebrating Mass on 10/17
In preparation for the work of the Synod of Bishops 2023, every Diocese in the world has been asked to gather on Sunday 10/17 to celebrate a Mass to begin praying for blessings upon the preparation for the Synod and upon the Diocesan consultation that will take place in each Diocese.
Two parishioners are invited to join Bishop Hicks as he celebrates this Mass on 10/17 at 2pm at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus to inaugurate the Diocesan consultation for the Synod of Bishops 2023. If you are interested in attending please reach out to zara@olmercy.com
World Mission Sunday 10/24
World Mission Sunday, our annual worldwide Eucharistic celebration for the Missions and missionaries of the world, will be celebrated on 10/24 this year. This collection on the next-to-last Sunday in October is a unique, global effort for the entire Church to provide for the building up of over one thousand local churches in Asia and Africa, the Pacific Islands, and parts of Latin America and Europe. Through the work of these churches, and their witness to Christ, the poor receive practical help and experience God’s love and mercy, His hope, and peace.
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
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 with zara@olmercy.com for 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 every two weeks 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.
FREE HEALING AND FORGIVENESS VIRTUAL CATHOLIC CONFERENCE 10/8 through 10/10
There is hope in finding and giving forgiveness, and you don’t have to go it alone.
Discover how to encounter the forgiving love of Christ in the areas where you feel most broken, most ashamed, most unloved, and most forgotten, and see for yourself what God has planned for those who love Him.
The Worldwide Healing Event is a global gathering of men and women who are ready to stop postponing their healing with unforgiveness and take the first step in living their redemption story!
Releasing unforgiveness
Healing from addiction
Healing from generational wounds
The healing power of worship!
Encountering healing through all Persons of the Trinity
And more!
Some of the Conference speakers are
Matt Lozano
Neal Lozano
Dr. Bob Schuchts
Dr. Mary Healy
Fr. Chris Alar
Fr. Donald Calloway
Sr. Briege McKenna
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.
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.
Not sure where to start? How about the episode of the Pivotal Players series of St. Ignatius of Loyola which covers Ignatius’ journey from a courageous and celebrated warrior to a passionate servant of Christ, and the influence he effected through the establishment of the Jesuit order and through his masterpiece, “The Spiritual Exercises.”
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.
This Wednesday and Thursday is the last week to invite people to Alpha for this fall session. Extend the invitation, it can be life-changing like it was for Joe Glasgow.