February 18, 2024 | Parish Update

February 18, 2024 | Parish Update

Our Story. Families register for Holy Pause by 3/5th. Purchase tickets for Lenten Fish Dinners.

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

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

       As a kid, I loved to watch the Tobey Maguire Spiderman with my dad and my brother. Because of this, I was dismayed when they decided to reboot the series with a new actor, Andrew Garfield, and I refused to watch it. After this, it was rebooted once again with another actor, Tom Holland. I thought, “If I didn’t watch the Andrew Garfield reboot, I’m definitely not going to watch this one.” But in the most recent Spiderman movie, No Way Home, something surprising happened. (This movie came out in 2021, so I don’t feel guilty about giving spoilers). The filmmakers decided to bring back the two other Spiderman actors, and make them part of the story, as Spidermen from different universes. As a result, their stories continued and were even able to find satisfying conclusions. 

     At first glance, it seems like God is trying to reboot humanity in the Great Flood, having Noah replacing Adam in the starring role of the father of humanity. And if this were the case, it would seem to be a mistake. Noah ultimately has his own fall like Adam, and evil still persists in the heart of man. But God is not really trying to reboot humanity. If anything, He is showing us that this is impossible. In the First Reading, God renews the covenant with creation that He had created with Adam and promises never to allow a Great Flood to destroy humanity in the future. He invites Noah to remember Adam, giving him an opportunity to return to Adam’s goodness while also having a chance to move beyond his mistakes. 

      Throughout salvation history, we see many more figures arise like Noah, receiving a chance to enter into relationship with God, but to greater or lesser degrees falling short. Finally, in the Gospel, we come to Jesus, and perhaps once again, it seems like a reboot. Like Adam, Jesus is tempted by Satan, and like Adam, Jesus lives in harmony with angels and wild beasts. But unlike Adam, Jesus conquers Satan, and as He does this, He is not trying to erase the memory of Adam. Instead, He is beginning a new chapter in the story, in fact the culmination of the story. Jesus takes up everything that has come before Him, but rather than erasing it or repeating it, He fulfills it. 

         As we begin Lent, it might seem like it’s time for a reboot, to give up what we’ve done in the past and start again. As tempting as it might be, we shouldn’t try to start with a blank slate. Instead, we should see it as a new chapter in our story, a chapter where we begin again, while also keeping in mind all that has gone before us to help us to avoid similar sins in the future. This Lent is the latest part of our story, and with God’s help, we don’t have to reboot it, but instead write the most interesting chapter so far. 

Fr. Frank

…

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

Lent Resources

  • 𝗟𝗲𝗻𝘁 @ 𝗢𝗟𝗠 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲 (𝗟𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗙𝗹𝘆𝗲𝗿, 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗹𝗲, 𝗙𝗔𝗤𝘀, 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀 𝗲𝘁𝗰)
    www.olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org/lent2024/ 
  • There are countless opportunities at OLM to open our hearts to His grace and mercy—through repentance, generosity, worship, forgiveness, and acts of service; see what those are at the Lent Resources page.  This resource (as well as the lenten flyer) has information on our parish Lenten Offerings such as the Parish Mission, Stations of the Cross, Reconciliation times, Reconciliation Service at our parish as well as other parishes, Fish Dinner Fridays and more.
  • This weekend’s bulletin includes the Lenten Flyer or pick one up in the wooden flyer display near the adoration chapel entrance or at the parish office.

Come Visit Jesus in the New Adoration Chapel

  • Deepen your Lenten journey and create more time for silence and prayer in your schedule by spending time with Jesus at the new Eucharistic Adoration Chapel anytime right after the 8am Mass until 10pm. Proceed here for more details.

Parish Office and Adoration Chapel Hours on 2/19

  • The Parish Office will be closed on 2/19th for President’s Day and will resume normal hours on Tuesday.
  • Touch up work will be carried out in the adoration chapel in the morning, a funeral memorial will take place inside the church. As a result, Adoration will be moved inside the church, starting at 11am and concluding at 6pm.

Praying “The Way of the Cross for Loved Ones Who Have Left the Faith” at Mondays with Monica & Augustine Prayer Group 2/19

  • Embark on a meaningful journey this Lent on 2/19, 2/26, 3/4 & 3/11, let’s come together to uplift our family and friends who have strayed from the faith; join us at 7:30pm in the Church as we fervently pray “The Way of the Cross for Loved Ones Who Have Left the Faith.”
    Your presence and prayers can make a profound impact.
  • We kindly request registration to ensure an ample supply of prayer books, yet we warmly welcome walk-ins as well.

Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group Continues on Tuesdays 2/20

  • Calling all young adults, join our Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group (CFYA) on Tuesdays at 7pm for community and faith building. Reach out to cfyagg@gmail.com to get plugged in with the group or sign up at the link HERE
  • The topic this Tuesday is a ‘Masculinity Talk’ with Matt Kubanda.

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 2/20

  • For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers… Come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 2/20th following the 6:30pm Mass.
  • St. Peregrine is the patron saint of the sick, especially those suffering from cancer, serious illness, or chronic illness. The prayer service is for the intention of those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers

Bible Studies Continue on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 2/19 & 2/20

  • How exciting! There are two Bible Study opportunities to take part in. We hope to see you at any of the following. Should you have any questions, please connect with Joe Wiacek and Joe Glasgow who are looking forward to hearing from you at OLMBiblestudies@gmail.com

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 2/21

  • The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 2/21 from 4:30pm to 6pm.  Don’t forget to share the Our Lady of Mercy social media posting on your network; you never know who among your network is in need of food.
  • The Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet Mobile Food Pantry delivers healthy food (meat, produce, and non-perishable items) to people in need. No identification or information will be required or collected. This event is open to anyone in need of food! Mobile Food Pantries use a “drive-thru” method to distribute. Please clear space in your trunk or backseat so volunteers can load boxes of food directly into your vehicle. Mobile Food Pantries take place snow, rain, or shine!

SoulCore Begins on Wednesday 2/21 

  • Join SoulCore Leaders Jen Bickel, and Lisa Hir, to nourish body, mind & soul with SoulCore — a prayer experience that combines the prayers of the rosary with core strengthening, stretching, and functional movement.  
    No fitness level or experience is required. All are welcome!
    This lenten themed fitness class will meet at 6:30pm on Wednesday 2/21, 3/6, and 3/13 focusing on the Sorrowful Mysteries.  

Vine & Branches Meets on Wednesdays 2/21

  • Vine & Branches is a Grow Group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals who have experienced the trauma of a broken marital relationship.
  • For more information, please reach out to one of our group leaders. They look forward to hearing from you: Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
    Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com, Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com

Salt and Light Grow Group Continues on Wednesdays & Thursdays 2/21 & 2/22

  • Join Salt and Light Grow Group 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝗷𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝘁. 𝗧𝗵𝗲́𝗿𝗲̀𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗲𝘂𝘅’𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝗪𝗮𝘆 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 “𝟯𝟯 𝗗𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗠𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗶𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗽 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁”
  • Choose from Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm or Thursday afternoons at 1pm; For more details and registration, proceed here, and please don’t forget to bring a friend.
  • At this lenten journey, uncover the power of trust; find the inspiration to become great saints in ordinary circumstances; and prepare for a personal consecration to Divine Mercy. This parish study which culminates on Divine Mercy Sunday 4/7th, includes workbooks, group discussion, and talks by renowned speaker and author Fr. Michael Gaitley, MIC.
    All participants will receive a free workbook, however, you must purchase the book “33 Days to Merciful Love” it is available on Amazon.
    Saint Pope John Paul II emphasized that now is the time of mercy, now is a time of great and extraordinary grace, a time in which all of us can become great saints — if we tap into that grace. One of the ways we tap into that grace is by asking God to fill us with an ocean of His tenderness and mercy. And we do that by consecrating ourselves to His Mercy. Please consider joining us. All are welcome!
    Check out the trailer

The Rescue Project Continues 2/22

  • “𝘐 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘸. 𝘐 𝘨𝘰 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘰, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘰.”
    “𝘐’𝘮 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥, 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘢𝘶𝘴𝘦 𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘕𝘌𝘝𝘌𝘙 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘥 𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘴 𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴.”
    “𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘙𝘦𝘴𝘤𝘶𝘦 𝘗𝘳𝘰𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘐’𝘷𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘰𝘧.”
    “𝘐 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘴, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘵𝘰𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘐 𝘢𝘮 𝘢 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘢𝘯 𝘮𝘢𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘢 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘱𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘎𝘰𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘱 𝘢𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘢 𝘧𝘦𝘸 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘨𝘰.”— Feedback from people who have experienced The Rescue Project

    𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝗼 𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗷𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗟𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝘄𝗲’𝗱 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗻𝗼𝘄 held on Thursday evenings at 6:30pm with free dinner, followed by Fr. Riccardo breaking open The Rescue Project segments of Created, Captured, Rescued and Response. The evening ends with a small group discussion.  Register at this link for this transformative experience of the gospel which gives you a deeper insight on the Mass!

Register for the Rescue Project

Stations of the Cross on Fridays 2/23

  • We hope to see you every Friday in Lent; let’s journey together through the Stations of the Cross! It’s a beautiful way to journey and reflect on God’s sacrifice and love for us. 12pm in Spanish and 7pm in English.
  • Or just come by at your convenience and walk the stations of the cross inside the narthex and if the weather is nice, you can also pray at the beautiful outdoor stations of the cross  May God’s grace be with you this Lenten Season.

Fit Shepherds on Wednesday and Saturday mornings

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

Weekly Praying for Priests

  • A prayer group has been praying for priests in front of the Blessed Sacrament weekly for over a year now, as well as on First Fridays. Even if you can’t join the group inside the church, you can pray wherever you are at during the times below.
  • Wednesdays at 10:30am – Rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy with meditations for priests,   Thursdays at 12:30pm –  Rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy with meditations for priests,First Friday of the month following 12pm Mass – Stations of the Cross with meditations for priests in the narthex.

Restore Weekly Restore Confidential Meetings

  • Restore is a ministry that accompanies men so as to win the battle against the struggles of living a lust-free life.
  • The ministry meets at a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas about strengthening their resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity.  All men are welcome, whether you have been free of the addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day. Though the meetings are weekly, at the last weekly meeting of the month, men are guided by a licensed Catholic therapist. If you are ready to start breaking free from the struggles of living chastely and want to Restore your life email Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet or call 331-684-7415.

Saint Vincent De Paul Society – Welcoming New Members

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

Sunday Mass Penitential Rite Responses 2/24 & 2/25 

  • As we journey through the special season of Lent, at the beginning of the Mass during the Penitential Rite, our responses will be:
    • Priest “Have mercy on us O, Lord.”
      Response “For we have sinned against You.”
      Priest “Show us O, Lord, Your mercy.”
      Response “And grant us Your salvation.”

CRHP Men’s Retreat 2/24 – 2/25 & Women’s Retreat 3/2 – 3/3

  • This could be your CRHP year, we hope you register today it truly is an incredible experience that will recharge your faith life, help you develop lasting friendships, and fill you with newfound energy and purpose.
  • Should you have any questions, connect with the Men and Women’s invitation coordinators for any questions Alex Grove (331)330-0257 or Beatriz Cultura (630)544-0720 crhpolm@gmail.com or check out the FAQs at their webpage.
  • A Special Opportunity for Men & Women
    WHAT. Do you sense that something’s missing in your life? Do you feel that if you weren’t so busy you would be happier, healthier, more effective, more fulfilled, and maybe even a better person?
    Come to the men’s and women’s CRHP weekend! It’s an incredible experience that will help you discover what’s missing in your life and what to do about it.
    Whether you want to connect with other men or women in the parish, improve your prayer life, or just take a break from the craziness of your everyday to have fun and not have to cook or clean, work, shovel the snow, tackle the next item on the ‘to do’ list, you will find what you are looking for—and more.
    WHEN. 𝗠𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝟮/𝟮𝟰 – 𝟮/𝟮𝟱 & 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗥𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝟯/𝟮 – 𝟯/𝟯. The day on Saturday starts at 7:30am and goes through the evening at 8:30pm.  We return the next day at the same time 7:30am ending at 3pm.
    WHERE. In the Parish Life Center (PLC) at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, 701 S. Eola Road, Aurora
    WHO. Any individual over the age of 18.
    WHY. Because you deserve to live with passion and purpose.
    REGISTER. Please register today.

“Teen Youth Group 3:16” on 2/25

  • High School students are invited to join the new OLM High School Youth Ministry, called “Teen Youth Group 3:16.” The first meeting is Sunday, 2/25th from 3:16pm-5:16pm, in the Youth Center (Room 211). If you have a teenager in your life, please let them know of this new youth group where they’ll find a safe and fun place to grow and find positive social connections within a solid Catholic community

A Lenten Themed MAGNIFY 2/28 

  • During Lent we take a step back from our day-to-day activities so that we can spend more time with Jesus. When we make room for Jesus, we’ll be drawn closer to Him. We’ll be more joyful. We’ll be more lighthearted.
    Lent is about filling our time with things that will draw us closer to God: may we suggest spending more time with Jesus at a lenten themed MAGNIFY? There will be a scriptural reflection, adoration, prayer ministry, confessions and worship; draw closer to Jesus during this special season of Lent at MAGNIFY.

First Friday and Saturday Devotion 3/1 & 3/2

  • Let us be in prayer at any of our great communal prayer devotions.  𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝘂𝘀 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀! All are invited to join the First Friday of Reparation and the Communal First Saturday!
    • Extra Friday Confession immediately following the 8am Mass
    • Respect Life 1st Friday Devotion: The Respect Life Ministry invites you to stand and silently pray in front of Waterleaf Women’s Center on January 5. Prayer warriors are needed for one hour shifts 7am – 4pm to change hearts and save lives. For more information, please call Lisa at (630) 236-3310-
    • ADDITIONAL FRIDAY MASS AT 12PM
    • First Saturday Devotion after the 8:30AM Mass
    • Saturday Confessions immediately following the 8:30am Mass and also from 1:30pm to 2:30pm
  • Here is a really good video from Fr. Chris Alar MIC on the First Saturday Devotion https://youtu.be/IaCNDjukTHI?si=9n6xgNE3I9TQBH3z

PADS/Hesed House Service Day 3/5

  • Our next PADS service day is Tuesday, 3/5th. The PADS Board with the “wish-list” of items needed to prepare the meals for 250 guests at Hesed House, is currently on display at the Atrium. Please help us feed the hungry.
  • All donated items must be dropped off during the weekend of 3/2nd and 3rd, before all Masses.  

Lenten Fish Dinners 3/8 & 3/15

  • Friday Lenten Fish Dinner tickets are now on sale!  Held on 3/8th and 3/15th from 5:30pm to 8pm purchase your meal tickets here (all proceeds support a wonderful cause, the Teen Mission Trip!).
    • $15 Fish Dinner Plates consists of potatoes, dinner roll, dessert and beverage. Choose from shrimp, cod (fried), or salmon.

Men of Christ Half Day Retreat “Mastering WHAT Matters” 3/9

  • Join this hybrid nationwide conference at St. Michaels in Wheaton on Saturday 3/9th at 7am. Share, celebrate, and live Christ with us.
    The St. Michael venue is open to any interested man, not just parish members. We will enjoy prayer, fellowship, confession and world-class speakers. Proceed here to for further details, the agenda and registration. Video presentations by Bishop Hicks, Fr. Mark Bernhard and Sam Blair a former navy seal.

Holy Pause-Family Faith Formation Lenten Event 3/9

  • 𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗟𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀 – 𝘁𝗵𝗲 “𝗛𝗼𝗹𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲.” Join us on Saturday, 3/9th from 2pm to 3:45pm in the gym for an enriching experience designed to deepen your Lenten journey as a family.
  • 🙌 Activities Include
    • Path of Creative Prayer Stations. Explore a journey of reflection and connection as a family, lifting up your own needs and the needs of others through unique prayer stations.
    • Make and Take Prayer Bowl Project. Engage in a hands-on, creative activity to craft personalized prayer bowls, a tangible reminder of your family’s shared spiritual journey.
    • Small Service Opportunity. Embrace the spirit of giving back as a family through a meaningful service opportunity.
  • 📅 Registration Deadline. To ensure we can accommodate everyone, please register for this free special gathering by 3/5th. Let’s come together as a community to pause, reflect, and strengthen our spiritual bonds during this Lenten season. We look forward to sharing this sacred time with you and your loved ones.

Register for Holy Pause HERE

DisABILITIES Mass at Our Lady of Mercy 3/10

  • We’re excited to warmly welcome individuals with disABILITIES, and their friends and family, at Our Lady of Mercy’s first disABILITIES Mass on Sunday 3/10th at 2pm! Please save the date!
  • We look forward to welcoming you and many others from throughout the Diocese of Joliet and we hope you will join us as we celebrate the blessings of those with disABILITIES in our Church family, as well as the wonderful gifts they bring to our parish!
  • Please sign up here so we can plan on welcoming you: https://ourladyofmercyaurora.flocknote.com/signup/152664

Discovering Divine Mercy Seminar 3/12 & 3/13

  • Discover, “The Extraordinary Graces and Gifts of the Divine Mercy Devotion,” in special seminars Tuesday, 3/12th at 9am or Wednesday, 3/13th at 7pm. Both seminars will be held in PLC Room 208. No registration is needed, but please be sure to bring your Rosary! For more details, e-mail trollerw@live.com or call (630) 585-1865.

Living with Grief Monthly Meeting: “Grief & Your Lenten Journey”  3/13

  • Experiencing the loss of a loved one is a difficult journey. Our Lady of Mercy is offering a supportive place for participants ages 18 and older living with grief to be together in a faith community to find healing and hope.
  • Join Deacon Tony Leazzo as we discuss grief & our connections with the Lenten Season. We will meet from 1-2:30pm in Room 217
  • Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.

Unbound Freedom in Christ Conference 3/15 & 3/16

  • Fr. James at St. Mary Immaculate in Plainfield, along with the Unbound Joliet team, is hosting an Unbound Freedom in Christ Conference on Friday, 3/15th 6:30pm to 9:30pm through Saturday, 3/16th 8:30am to 8:30pm. God wants to speak into your life and reveal His heart to you. This conference will help you to learn the 5 keys of Unbound and to experience deeper freedom in Christ. Registration and details are found at this link.

Knights of Columbus Easter Egg Hunt 3/16

  • The Knights of Columbus are hosting an Easter Egg Hunt for kids ages 0-10 on Saturday, 3/16, at 10am with the Egg Hunt starting at 10:30am. It will be held in the PLC. Please bring your Easter basket or a bag to hold all the eggs you find. Maybe even the Easter Bunny will stop in for some fun!!! We hope to see you there!
  • *There will be a “Sensory Friendly” egg hunt and sensory bins in a separate room with less stimuli and lower lighting*

Meet & Greet Gathering 3/17

  • 𝟯/𝟭𝟳𝘁𝗵 @ 𝟭𝟭:𝟭𝟱𝗮𝗺 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀/𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝗹𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 & 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗚𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴!
  • Whether you’ve recently registered as a member (parishioner) or if you’ve been attending our Sunday or Daily Mass, actively participating in community life, 𝘄𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗶𝘁 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗮 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿/𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 & 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁—𝘄𝗲’𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀!  We hope to see you on Sunday 3/17th for a joyful experience of connection, belonging, and the start of a beautiful journey together. We can’t wait to meet you and welcome you officially into the OLM family!

Donut Sunday 3/17

  • Stop by the PLC after the 8am and 10am Masses on Sunday, 3/17th for Yummy Donuts, Good Coffee & Wonderful Fellowship. 

Parish Mission with Fr. Sean Grismer 3/18 & 3/19

  • “The Joy of the Lord Is Our Strength” is the theme for our Parish Mission with Fr. Sean Grismer on Monday 3/18 and Tuesday 3/19 from 7pm to 8:30pm.
    Blessed with fervor for his faith, a keen sense of humor, and a way with words, Fr. Grismer compels his audiences’ attention. He will dive into the great call upon each of our lives allow the joy of the Lord to be our strength.
    In 2016, Fr. Grismer was ordained a priest in the Diocese of Rockford. Presently, he is the Assistant Principal and Spiritual Director at Aurora Central Catholic High School, Aurora. Fr. Grismer has led several pilgrimages to Lourdes, Rome, and serves as a parish retreat leader. He is a member of Our Lady of Lourdes North American Volunteers. He holds a License in Sacred Theology with a focus on Dogmatic Theology from Rome’s Pontifical Angelicum University.

Palm Weaving Workshop 3/18, 3/20 & 3/21

  • Come out and weave palms to help us decorate our church for Palm Sunday and Holy Week on any of the following days. The Arts and Environment team will give easy-to-follow instructions on how to weave the palms.
    • Monday 3/18 from 7pm to 9:30pm in Room 114.
    • Wednesday 3/20 from 9am to 11:30am in Room 114.
    • Thursday 3/21 from 7pm to 9:30pm in Room 114.

A MAGNIFY Lenten Reconciliation Service 3/20

  • Join us for a special evening at MAGNIFY on Wednesday, 3/20th, just before Holy Week, as we host a special Lenten Reconciliation Service. There will be a handful of priests who will hear Confessions from 7pm to 8:30pm.

FREE Online Lenten Retreat “Ecce Homo” 3/21-3/23

A Spring Clearing of Closets Could Benefit the St. Vincent de Paul Clothing Drive 3/23 & 3/24 

  • In the season of spring, let’s go on a cleaning spree,Open up those closets, set your wardrobe free.Spring cleaning’s not just about dusting and mopping,It’s a chance to give back, to keep compassion popping.Clear out those closets, where garments reside,Clothes you don’t wear, it’s time to decide.A clothing drive awaits, with arms open wideTo give those unused garments a new place to reside.Spring’s renewal extends to more than just blooms,It’s about sharing warmth, dispelling cold glooms.Donate those jackets, those jeans, and those shirts,Help others in need, where compassion asserts.So fold up the sweaters, the scarves, and the rest,Each piece that you give, makes someone’s heart zest.Spring cleaning, a chance for a fresh, caring start,Turn unused clothes into warmth, like a kindhearted art.
  • The truck for the next SVDP Clothing Drive will be in the church parking lot from noon on Saturday, 3/23 to approximately noon on Sunday, 3/24.

Walking Through Grief 6-Week Series Begins 4/8

  • Experiencing the loss of a loved one is a difficult journey. Our Lady of Mercy is offering a supportive place for participants (ages 18 and older) to walk through grief together in a faith community to find hope and healing.
  • Walking Through Grief is a weekly support group for six weeks from 1pm to 2:30pm on the following Mondays,  in Room 208 in the Parish Life Center (PLC)
  • Registration is requested, Please connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380

Have a Minister of Care Bring Holy Communion to Your Loved One that is Homebound

  • Ministers of Care are trained in the ministry and commissioned by the parish to visit those unable to come to Church to receive Holy Communion.
  • If you know someone in the parish who is unable to come to church and wishes to receive Holy Communion in the home, please contact Jolene at jolenel@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org and arrangements will be made.

Is God Calling You to the Priesthood?

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column 

  • Bishop Hicks’ monthly column for February is titled “Peace in the Holy Land” Read his insightful column HERE.
    • 75th Jubilee of the Diocese of Joliet. Our diocese was founded on December 11, 1948. For an entire year, we will highlight the accomplishments of our past & how we were founded in faith, while being called to witness now and in the future, and continue to be sent forth to serve. Hear from Bishop Hicks as he describes the events leading up to the year-long celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Diocese of Joliet; find out all the details, and see the year-long schedule HERE.

Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal 2024 

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

Scam Emails and Text Messages

  • From time to time, there are phishing (SCAM) emails going out to members of the parish and staff claiming to be Father Michael as well as text messages.
    Please note that Father Michael and Father Frank DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards. If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Michael or Father Frank, please discard it (any email that does not have “olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org” is a fake email) and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.  No one on the staff will personally ask for money in whatever form (gift cards etc). If someone sends you a private message asking for a donation of sorts, it’s undoubtedly a fake account. Please keep praying for us, and God bless you!

Did You Know We Have a Parish School?

  • All Saints Catholic Academy (ASCA) located at 1155 Aurora Ave, Naperville is our parish school!
  • Are you a parent with preschool, elementary, and middle school-aged children struggling with the antithetical Christian values the government schools are indoctrinating the children who attend government schools?  You’re not alone.
  • Join a growing number of OLM parents who have made the move by sending their child(ren) to public school to All Saints Catholic Academy.
  • Connect with Patty Bajek at (630) 961-6125, or pbajek@ascacademy.org to express your interest and schedule a personalized tour.  Or peruse their website to explore your interest.  

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 2022, we provided assistance to 72 households, helping 185 men, women, and children to remain in their homes or apartments in time of financial need.
  • The ministry is always looking for volunteers to join our St. Vincent de Paul Society in assisting our neighbors in need. If you would like to volunteer or learn more, send an email to olmsvdp@gmail.com with your name and contact information.

Bulletin

For the Hispanic Community

  • Please proceed here for the OLM Hispanic Ministry’s upcoming events and resources.
    Continúe aquí para conocer los próximos eventos y recursos del Ministerio Hispano de OLM.
  • There will be Stations of the Cross in Spanish every 2nd Wednesday of the month after the 12pm Mass.
    A partir de la próxima semana, habrá Estaciones de la Cruz en español cada segundo miércoles del mes después de la misa de las 12 pm.

A Note from the Intercessory Prayer Ministry

  • How can we pray for you today?
    There are times when life is overwhelming when all we have is questions.The great thing about prayer is that it shifts our perspective toward the One who stands ready to listen. No matter what you’re facing, we’d love to pray with you. Submit your prayer requests at this link
  • Prayer Ministry takes place monthly at MAGNIFY and on the last weekend of the month Mass times.  Prayer ministry is an opportunity for those in need of physical, emotional, or spiritual healing or with a specific intention. Come as an individual, as a couple, or as a family. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement.  

Have you Downloaded our MyParish App yet?

If you haven’t done so, we encourage you to download the Our Lady of Mercy app, available to download for iPhone and Android smartphones.  Or text APP to 88202 to download.

  • Stay connected with our parish throughout the week with instant notifications, an easy-to-access event calendar, and the ability to reply to or share messages. Enjoy a bunch of additional features like prayers, daily readings, reminders to silence your phone before Mass, & much more.

Donate Online Through OSV Giving 

  • Whether you are a registered parishioner with us or visiting, we are set up to receive donations online through OSV Our Sunday Visitor.
  •  Click here to for online giving.
  • You can also access this link through our myParish App “Giving” button. Don’t have the myParish App yet? Text APP to 88202 to download!  Receive this update, instant news, and get access to the parish calendar, daily readings, and Confession guide.

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

A MOTHER’S HEART GROW GROUP

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

Website. Proceed here for details.

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

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

CONSUMING FIRE YOUNG ADULT GROW GROUP

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

Website. Proceed here for details.

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

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

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

Website. Proceed here for details.

Meets. Wednesdays 7pm to 8:30pm

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

VINE & BRANCHES GROW GROUP

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

Website. Proceed here for details

Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings.

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

Parish School | All Saints Catholic Academy

Dear Friends,

     Welcome to All Saints Catholic Academy, and thank you for your interest in our school! We are grateful for your consideration and hope you find our website helpful in your discernment.

     As a parent, you have much to consider when selecting a school for your child. By choosing All Saints, you are providing your children with the learning environment and preparation they will need for a bright future. Our daily curriculum promotes each child’s academic, physical, spiritual, and emotional growth. We educate the whole child, helping each student become a well-rounded young adult prepared to meet the challenges of high school and beyond.

     At ASCA, we have a tremendously dedicated, highly qualified degreed and licensed faculty as well as superb academic and formation programs. As a Catholic school open to students of all faiths, our belief in Jesus Christ and His Church guide our faith formation program. Your son or daughter will find in ASCA a welcoming, inclusive, safe, disciplined, and academically rigorous program that offers high expectations in a supportive way. Whether through academics, preparation for sacraments, athletics, or a myriad of extracurricular programs, we have something to engage each student. All are welcome at All Saints!

     Please peruse our website, and contact us to schedule a personalized tour. We look forward to meeting you and welcoming you to the All Saints family. Our prayers are with you as you make this important decision for your child’s future.

     Yours in Christ,
     Margie Marshall
     Principal

Marvin Booker, an OLM parishioner, shares the journey of his family’s decision to enroll their kids in All Saints Catholic Academy, our parish school. 

Discover why All Saints could be the perfect fit for your family in today’s dynamic world, schedule a tour!

GROW YOUR FAITH

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check it out HERE

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

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

WORD ON FIRE

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

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

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

BLESSED IS SHE

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

THE CATHOLIC GENTLEMAN

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

HEROIC MEN

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

AQUINAS 101 FREE COURSES

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

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

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

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

PINTS WITH AQUINAS PODCAST

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

PASTORAL CARE

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

RESTORE

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

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

Be encouraged; check out this Testimony.

MOMS WALKING WITH MOMS IN NEED

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

FAITH BUDDIES

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


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