September 6, 2023 | Parish Update

Carrying our Crosses. Join the Choir. Watch the Talent Show. OLM Feast Celebration. And September Gatherings!

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

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From the P.I.T. (Pastor In Training)

I hate vocation stories…or at least I used to. I always struggle with the fact that so many of these stories, after dealing with the twists and turns of that person’s vocational journey, seemed to end with seminary as if it were the solution to all their problems. But I have to tell you that that is not the case, as I learned the hard way.

As I entered seminary, I believed that it would be like my past experiences of college, but when I tried to joke and be myself, it was badly received, so I pulled back and was quiet. I was told that my theology degree would help me get out of introductory classes, but I found myself fighting tooth and nail to prove that I knew anything. And an irrational fear of the human pillar of seminary formation—of being told I wasn’t human enough— was quickly realized in my first formation meeting. I felt like Jeremiah in the First Reading this past Sunday, who said, “You duped me, O LORD, and I let myself be duped.” 

In a similar way, in the Gospel we heard last week, Peter has just heard that Jesus would “give [him] the keys to the kingdom of heaven.” But then this past Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus turns around and predicts His Passion, which seems to go completely counter to what Jesus had just said to him about the Kingdom of God. So it’s no wonder that he says, “God forbid, Lord! No such thing shall ever happen to you.” 

As I continued through seminary, I continued to feel this heaviness, and whenever it became too overwhelming, I would find myself saying to myself: “I don’t want to be here.” The last time I preached, I talked about listening for God’s voice in the silence. But when we listen for God’s voice, there is the risk also of hearing our own or the enemy’s voice. When I brought the situation to my spiritual director, he very simply and bluntly said, “And whose voice do you think that is?” 

When I was able to recognize that that voice was not from God, this did not remove the sufferings, but allowed me to see this as part of God’s Plan. Instead of being a passive participant in my life, I felt God calling me to take an active role in my spiritual life. Jesus tells us, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” 

We are also called to take an active role in our spiritual lives, taking up the crosses that God allows to come into our lives. However, as we carry our crosses, we do not do this alone, but always following after Jesus. I don’t hate vocation stories anymore because I know that it’s only part of the story, that discerning our vocation is part of the Cross, but a Cross that ultimately leads to the Resurrection.

Father Frank

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

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THIS COMING WEEK

Consuming Fire 9/5

• Calling all young adults, join our Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group (CFYA) on Tuesday at 7pm for community and faith building. Reach out to cfyagg@gmail.com to get plugged in with the group. 
• Join CF for a NEW SERIES: “A Biblical Walk Through the Mass” starting this Tuesday, 9/5 
• WE GATHER | CFYA gather with regularity at OLM and other venues to eat, pray, and ‘do life together’! The gatherings are open to anyone: Catholics, non-Catholics, seekers, and those just curious about Jesus. OUR PURPOSE | The primary purpose of Consuming Fire is to help young adults grow in their relationship with Jesus together – and community is the most effective way to do that! After all, there are no “solo disciples”. Discipleship cannot be lived (and definitely will not flourish) in isolation. KEEPING IT REAL | Consuming Fire is all about real relationships where there is authenticity, accountability, and accompaniment.

Bible Study on “The Presence accompanied by the Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit” 9/5

• Come to the Bible Study on Tuesday evenings on “Presence The Mystery of the Eucharist” accompanied with the “Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit!”  How exciting!
• Sign up now at this link.
• For any questions, please connect with Joe Wiacek or Joe Glasgow at OLMBiblestudies@gmail.com or Shirley Staples shirleystaples@yahoo.com on the exhibit.
• With beautiful film-making and powerful teaching, the PRESENCE series will move your heart to dive deeper into the mystery of Jesus’ greatest gift to us —the HOLY EUCHARIST. This Augustine Institute study explores the truth and beauty of Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist, from its origins in Sacred Scripture to its profound role in the life of the Church and its members. To accompany us on this study so as to go on a deeper dive into the Holy Eucharist, we will be exhibiting “The Eucharistic Miracles of the World.” Register soon for this unique Bible Study experience! We look forward to seeing you on Tuesday, 8/22nd. All you need to bring is your Bible, and a study guide will be provided where you can jot down your answers or notes from the Bible Study.

Salt and Light 9/6

• Join Salt and Light Grow Group for this small group retreat that delves into the simplicity and grandeur of Consoling spirituality. This retreat is based on the popular book by Fr. Michael Gaitley, MIC, 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝑱𝒆𝒔𝒖𝒔.
  Gain new insights into how you can console Jesus; learn the keys to the great sanctity of the saints and blessed like Therese of Lisieux, Faustina Kowalska, and Mother Teresa; and have all the tools you’ll need to “become a saint, a great saint, and quickly.” Check out olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org/saltandlight/ for further details and registration. Looking forward to seeing you @ OLM on Wednesdays for this awesome study!

Join the Choir on Wednesdays 9/6 

• Do you love to sing? Our Adult Choir and Youth Choir both begin rehearsals on Wednesday evenings. Contact Frank Sauter with any questions: franks@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org
• If you join there is a $1,000 sign-on bonus…. OK NOT REALLY, BUT you definitely will store up treasure in heaven as well as make new friends, have fun and help people worship through beauty; the vocation of musicians is to reveal the beauty of God through sound. They are able to reach people in ways that others can’t.
• If you have a musical talent to share with the community, we would love to have you join us. We hope to see you on Wednesday at the following times YOUTH CHOIR 5:30pm to 6pm (Grades 3 to 8) ADULT CHOIR 7:30pm to 9pm (Grades 9 to Adult).

We Hope To See You At Alpha on Thursdays starting 9/7

• Ever asked questions like, “Where do I fit in?”, “Who can I trust?”, “Am I loveable?”, “Does my life matter?” If so, you are not alone!
  Exploring faith with others is a great way to start (or continue!) your journey. Try it for yourself at Alpha and see how asking these questions with others in just a short amount of time could unlock something new for you. No strings attached. We’d love to hear your thoughts and learn together.
• 𝗦𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝘂𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗵𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀; 𝘄𝗲’𝘃𝗲 𝗴𝗼𝘁 𝗮 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝘁 𝗮𝘁 𝗔𝗹𝗽𝗵𝗮 – 𝗶𝘁 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗮 FREE 𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿, 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗮 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗲 𝘀𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗱𝗿𝗼𝗽 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗼𝗿 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗶𝘁 𝗹𝗼𝘄-𝗸𝗲𝘆. 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗸 𝗶𝗻 𝟵/𝟳, 𝟵/𝟭𝟰, 𝗼𝗿 𝟵/𝟮𝟭 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸 𝗶𝘁 𝗼𝘂𝘁.To uncover all the details and snag your spot, just hit up this link. and hey, why not double the fun and bring along a friend? We all know someone exploring life, faith, and meaning; invite them to Alpha!

A Mother’s Heart Grow Group 9/6, 9/7, 9/20, & 9/21

• 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.
• Check out this month’s gatherings! Questions? Reach out to Lydia Schmitt lydiadschmitt@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. With Lent approaching, these prayer gatherings could be an offering of prayer/sacrifice. Even if you can’t join the group inside the church, you can pray wherever you are at during the times below.
• Here are the days/hours: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 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.

Weekly Adoration

• COME AND ADORE OUR LORD! Eucharistic Adoration is held three times a week at OLM! In the book of Exodus, we read about Moses meeting God “face to face, as one man speaks to another” in the ‘Tent of Meeting.’ Just like Moses did 3,000 years ago, you and I have that very same opportunity for a face-to-face encounter with God to share what’s in our hearts, our joys, our worries, what’s troubling us right now, vetting it out with Jesus in the Eucharist. It is good to be with the Lord! It’s what we were created for. Whether we realize it or not, our hearts long for God and an awareness of His presence. He is our greatest good! And Jesus longs to reveal that goodness to us even more than we long to know Him. That’s why He took on flesh and became a man. That’s why He poured out His Holy Spirit. And that’s why He is truly and fully present in the Eucharist.
• So come and encounter Jesus anytime this week at Eucharistic Adoration on Mondays and Thursdays 8:30am to 6:30pm and Wednesdays 8am to 12pm.
  And if you’d like to sign up for a regular time to be with Jesus, click here.

LOOKING AHEAD

Waterleaf Women’s Center Run for Life — 5K Run & Walk 9/9

• Take part in Waterleaf’s Run for Life at the Waubonsee Lake Park on Saturday September 9th at 8am.  Choose between 5K Run, 2.2 mile walk, or kids run. Register now to support the life-saving work of Waterleaf Women’s Center at this link.
• This event features:
  • Run for Life performance tees for all who register by August 14, 2023
  • Goodie Bag for all participants
  • On-site registration on the day of the race starts at 7am
  • Professional and accurate timing by Race Time, Inc.
  • Water stations along the course & snacks at the finish!
  • Finisher medals for all participants

Altar Server Training 9/10 & Senior Servers on 9/17

• Training for boys and girls who wish to become Altar Servers will take place in the Church on Sunday, September 10 from 3:30pm to 5pm.  Boys and girls who are registered in the parish and are in 5th grade or higher are eligible to become Altar Servers. 
• Training for current Altar Servers who wish to become Senior Servers will take place in the Church on Sunday, September 17 from 4pm to 5pm. Current Altar Servers that are in 8th grade or higher are eligible to move to Senior Server. Any current server who would like a “refresher course” on Altar Serving is encouraged to attend as well. 
• If you have any questions, please contact the Parish office or Pat Heraty at pat.heraty@opcpolymers.com.

OCIA Begins on 9/11

• Are you interested in becoming Catholic or learning more about the process to become Catholic? Or are you curious about what initiation for adults means?
  Our blessed Lord Jesus Christ said to Matthew “Follow me” and he rose and followed him. For Catholics, we respond in a similar way. The Christian way of life and becoming Catholic goes through a process of initiation, which is falling in love with Jesus and becoming His disciple. Through weekly meetings, we strive to help people learn how to respond to the prompting of God in their lives.
  The best way to learn is by doing Catholic things and hanging around other Catholics. The way to practice being a Catholic and enter into this process is through entering a way of life, as an apprentice learns from a master and that master’s community.
  Our blessed Lord Jesus is our master and becoming Catholic is a lot like being His apprentices. We call this process the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults often referred to as OCIA. It involves encountering the Word of God through the liturgies and personal study, engaging in a vibrant community at Our Lady of Mercy, worship with fellow believers in Christ, learning to pray and be of service to others.
• Meetings will take the form of classes on Monday evenings at 7pm led by our pastor, Fr. Michael Kearney, and parochial vicar, Fr. Frank Pusateri, and an invitation to fellowship gatherings on Sunday mornings starting with the 10am Mass.
• If you are interested in being Catholic or know of someone who is interested, take the next step in responding to God’s call by completing the form on our webpage.

Mondays with Monica & Augustine Prayer Group starts 9/11

• Do the following resonate with you?
  • I’ve experienced grief/heartache of watching a loved one leave the Faith.
  • I’ve offered prayers for the conversion of children and grandchildren living contrary to the Catholic Faith.
  • I’m navigating letting go of anger and unforgiveness so as to allow my heart to be filled with peace and comfort.
  • I am learning / or want to learn how to set an example of faith that draws non-believers to Catholicism.
• If you have ever loved someone who left the Faith, you know the ache of wanting that person back at the table. You pine for them at Mass, you miss their presence, and even wonder, How could life in Heaven be happy if the one I love is not present? When we feel this ache, the one intimately known to Saint Monica for years, we begin to learn how to love as God loves.
• Saint Monica experienced all this so acutely with her son, who eventually became a saint, Saint Augustine. At “Mondays with Monica and Augustine Prayer Group” we follow the example of Saint Monica, whose prayers, tears, and witness led to the conversion of both her husband and her son and turn to prayer for our loved ones.
• We hope to see you on Monday, September 11th at 7:30pm!  
• While registration is not required, it would be wonderful if you could register so as to help us be prepared to welcome you (have enough prayer guides for everyone etc.) Saints Monica and Augustine, pray for us and our loved ones dear to our hearts who have followed different paths.

Vine & Branches Informational Sessions 9/13 & 9/20

• We all have experienced broken relationships, as you are aware of the stats on divorce, many of us have experienced this in our families. This form of brokenness can isolate and separate us from our communities, including communities of faith. Vine and Branches Grow Group is a place to help people find healing will be hosting the Ascension Press program called “Surviving Divorce”.
  It 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.
• Come to the informational sessions on Wednesday, September 13 and 20 at 7pm to find out more. The program will start on October 11th; please register here to take part in it.

SoulCore Fall Session for Six Weeks Starts 9/13

• The Fall Session of SoulCore on Wednesday evening starts on 9/13th at 7pm!
• Ladies, come and join our fitness class, SoulCore! Nourish your body, mind, and soul with prayer-inspired workouts for only six weeks. Classes are September 13, 20 (no class on 9/27) and October 4, 11, 18, 25.
• Get physically and spiritually fit this summer at a SoulCore class at OLM!  Register now (and also for more information) proceed here.

Register for SoulCore

Baptism Ministers Training 9/14

• We are looking for individuals or couples who are interested in becoming a Baptism Minister. Please consider helping out at this most important and beautiful ministry.
  • Baptism Ministers serve once a month either on a Saturday from 11:15AM-1:30PM or a Sunday from 1:15-3:30PM.
  • Ministers assist the families who are bringing their child to be baptized by offering hospitality and welcoming each family and child into the Catholic Church.
  • In addition to greeting and welcoming the families, Baptism Ministers set up for the baptism, assist the celebrant during the ceremony, and clean up after the ceremony.
  • Training will be offered on Thursday September 14 8 from 7PM – 8:30PM in the Church. Please email Lydia Schmitt, lydias@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org, for more information about the Baptism Ministry and if you want to attend the training to become a Baptism Minister.

Come Watch and/or Perform at the TALENT SHOW 9/16!

• The spotlight is calling your name! We extend a special invitation to all children aged 4 to 12 and their families to showcase their unique gifts and talents at our family-friendly talent show. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable event!
• There are 20 spots available, so we encourage you to secure your place by signing up now. Simply click on this link to register your family-friendly act and reserve your moment in the limelight.
• Should you have any inquiries or need further information, please feel free to reach out to Justin and Laura Reyes, our dedicated point of contact, at reyeshj17@gmail.com. They will be delighted to assist you.
• Join us as we create wonderful memories together on the stage. We can’t wait to witness your incredible talents and celebrate the vibrant spirit of our community. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to shine!
• The Talent Show will take place on Saturday, September 16th after the 4pm Mass.  
  There is a Taco Bar Supper for Everyone RSVP for this dinner here.

Learn How to Discern Your Vocation—Samuel Group Starts 9/17

• If you have a young adult in your life or know of one, please share the following invitation with them.
  Samuel Group invites single or dating young adults ages 20-35 who are striving for holiness and seeking a deeper relationship with God to commit to a rigorous seven-month program of prayer, discernment, and fellowship, guided by the spirituality and wisdom of St. Ignatius of Loyola. The 2023-2024 session starts on 9/17th!.
  To learn more, visit Catechesis.diojoliet.org/samuel-group

Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast 9/17

• Eat pancake for a good cause! Please join the Knights of Columbus on Sunday 9/17^th from 8am to noon for a delicious pancake breakfast in the PLC. All profits benefit our Coats for Kids donation to Catholic Charities.

The Reliquaries of St. Therese and her parents are coming to the National Shrine in Darien 9/17 through 10/1

• The Centennial Reliquary of St. Therese and Reliquary of her parents, Saints Louis and Zelie Martin, will be visiting the National Shrine of St. Therese in Darien, Illinois from September 17 to October 1, 2023.  
• They will have daily Masses at 11:30 AM and special programs each day from 2pm to 4pm.
• Sign up HERE to get Relic Visit reminders and further details as the 2023 visit approaches!

Pray for the Joliet Diocese Priests 9/18 through 9/21

• Let us be in prayer for our Fathers and all our beloved priests of our diocese during this time, who will be on a convocation with Bishop HIcks from September 18 – 21. The Joliet priest convocation is held every other year. 
• Sign up and dedicate a holy hour to pray for them here. Please invite others to pray for our beloved priests and bishops.

Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Fatima Parish Visitation 9/19 & 9/20

• Spreading the Message of Fatima TodayOur Lady travels the worldThe world-famous International Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Fatima is recognized as the primary way in which the message of Fatima spread throughout the world and continues today.Sculpted by Jose Thedim—“the Michelangelo of Portugal”—the statue has been traveling internationally since 1947.  On October 13, 1947, in the presence of 200,000 pilgrims at Fatima, the statue was blessed by the Bishop of Lieria-Fatima and commissioned to serve as the Pilgrim Virgin.  The bishop prayed that Mary herself accompany the statue wherever it goes.  She was then flown to America, where she was crowned in Ottawa, Canada, and began a 2-year tour of Canada and the U.S.She has since traveled to over 100 countries, claiming her dominion and carrying Fatima’s blessings and urgent message to people worldwide. Our Lady travels the U.S.The National Pilgrim Virgin Statue was given to the United States by the bishop of Fatima after being blessed by Pope St. Paul VI in 1967. She was crowned by Cardinal O’Boyle at the National Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, DC in 1971.  This statue travels across the United States under the sponsorship of the  World Apostolate of Fatima, USA. She has proven time and again to be the catalyst for renewed interest in the message of Fatima, and for introducing new generations of Catholics to Our Lady’s important message of conversion and peace.She will visit Our Lady of Mercy on Tuesday September 19th through Wednesday September 20th.  Should you have any questions regarding this wonderful visit, please connect with Bobby and Joy Delrosario at 630-995-0388 for any questions.
• Here is the following schedule.
  • Tuesday September 19th
    8am Holy Mass
    9:30am First Saturday Devotion Rosary
    12pm Rosary for Respect for Life
    1pm Prayers for Priests & Vocations
    3pm Divine Mercy Chaplet
    4pm Rosary in Spanish
    6:30pm Communion Service
    7pm Eucharistic Adoration
  • Wednesday, September 20th
    8am Eucharistic Adoration
    9am Patriotic Rosary
    12pm Holy Mass
    1pm Rosary for Families
    3pm Divine Mercy Chaplet
    3:30pm Farewell

Saint Peregrine Prayer Service 9/19

• All are invited to attend the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday, 9/19 in the PLC after the 6:30pm Mass (at 7pm), check the screens for room details.
• St. Peregrine is the patron saint of the sick, especially those experiencing cancer, serious illness, or chronic illness. Anyone experiencing physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual health concerns would benefit from attending the prayer service. The relic of St. Peregrine will be present.

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 9/20

• The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 9/20 from 4:30pm to 6pm.  Don’t forget to share the Our Lady of Mercy social media posting on your network; you never know who among your network is in need of food.
• The Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet Mobile Food Pantry delivers healthy food (meat, produce, and non-perishable items) to people in need. No identification or information will be required or collected. This event is open to anyone in need of food! Mobile Food Pantries use a “drive-thru” method to distribute food. Please clear space in your trunk or backseat so volunteers can load boxes of food directly into your vehicle. Catholic Charities helps people of all faiths and beliefs. Mobile Food Pantries take place snow, rain, or shine!

1st Annual Retreat for Parents/Caregivers of Persons with Disabilities 9/23

• The Diocese of Joliet Disabilities Ministry is holding a retreat for parents/caregivers of persons with disabilities which will take place on Saturday, 9/23 at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, 8040 Cass Avenue, Darien. There will be Mass, confessions, a speaker, and breakout sessions.
• There will be TWO sessions from which to choose. Registration is required, please note space is limited do register soon at this link.

Celebrating Our Lady of Mercy Feast the weekend of 9/23 & 9/24

• In honor of Our Lady of Mercy feast day which is on September 24, we are celebrating in the following ways!  Let us come together as a community at any of these gatherings in celebration and thanksgiving for the gift of Our Lady of Mercy, our parish’s namesake.  Keep watch of our communications platforms for more details.
• Beer & Brats on Saturday 9/23
  • On Saturday 9/23rd from 5pm to 7pm is Beer & Brats, as well as hotdogs, burgers, and wine!  Thank you to Brian and Brittany Scopa for donating the food.
    Let’s close out the summer season by hanging out together on the last day of summer!
  • Please RSVP TO olmsocialcomm@gmail.com or at bit.ly/satsept27
• Donut Sunday 9/24
  • Hosted by our wonderful OLM Social Committee, please stop by the gym after the 8am and 10am Mass for fellowship, delicious donuts, and coffee.
• Check out the Progress of the Eucharistic Chapel 
  • This weekend, we will have the opportunity to see the progress of the Eucharistic Chapel!  The door will be open so you can see how the build-out is going.  
  • An opportunity to sign up for Eucharistic Adoration will be available, so that we can have Eucharistic Adoration Monday through Friday once the Eucharistic Chapel is completed.

Eucharistic Miracles Exhibit 9/27 thru 10/4

• “The Eucharistic Miracles of the World” will return on Wednesday, September 27th through Tuesday, October 4th. Eucharistic miracles can be useful and fruitful aids to our faith. They help us go beyond the visible and the percetible.
• Have you ever asked, is the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist real? Come and vet the question by visiting the exhibit and reading people’s stories about their doubts as well. (Look for the Eucharistic  Miracle of Lanciano, Italy).
• Stop by the hallway of the second floor of the PLC at any of the following times.
  • Wednesday 9/27 from 9am to 9pm
  • Thursday 9/28 from 9am to 9pm
  • Friday 9/29 from 9am to 9pm
  • Saturday 9/30 from 10am to 5:30pm
  • Sunday 10/1 from 9:30am to 7pm
  • Monday 10/2 from 9am to 9pm
  • Tuesday 10/3 from 9am to 9pm
  • Wednesday 10/4 from 9am to 4pm

Chris Stefanick in person at OLM for REBOOT on  9/27

• We hope to experience a life-changing evening with you on Wednesday 9/27 @ 7pm, when internationally acclaimed speaker, author, and TV host, Chris Stefanick, will be bringing “Reboot!” to OLM in person.
  
  God did not create us just to “get by” in this world; He created us to live life, and live it to the full. Come learn more about the beauty of our faith, the love that Jesus has for YOU, and how we are meant to live out this JOY in our daily lives.
  
  Reboot! is suitable for ages 12 and up, so bring the whole family, and bring a friend. We challenge you now to think of one person to invite, and get your tickets; don’t think, just do! Whether you’re a lifelong Church goer, just rediscovering your faith, or have never heard of Jesus before, this is THE event for you! Register now for this life-changing event.

Hear from Chris Stefanick through his show every Monday at 6pm; follow this link for the Chris Stefanick Show on FORMED!
Get free access to FORMED online; see the Free Online Resources below (or through their App).

You can also check him out on the myParish App, just click on the button “Real Life Catholic”

Prayer Ministry 9/30 & 10/1

• Receive Prayer Ministry after all the Mass times the weekend of 9/30 and 10/1! Prayer ministry is an opportunity for those in need of physical, emotional, or spiritual healing or with a specific intention. Come as an individual, as a couple, or as. a family and receive prayer for yourself or request prayers for someone in need. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement. Trained prayer ministers are available in the back of Church.

Blessing of the Animals 10/7

• We are paws-itively excited about our annual Pet Blessing this weekend! Join us on Saturday, October 7th at 12pm 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.
  
  Bring your furry friend to Our Lady of Mercy on Saturday, and learn more about the life of St. Francis here.

Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day Memorial Service 10/15

• Please save the date on Sunday, October 15th, after the 10am Mass for a memorial service by the monument near the outdoor Stations of the Cross in our parish grounds.
• The beautiful monument, donated by the Sincora and Savoie Families in loving memory of Rose Christine Sincora, is shaped like an expectant mother, and remembers our littlest babies in heaven while giving families and friends a place to remember babies who were so wanted and are forever loved and missed.

Undy Sunday Collection Weekend 10/14 & 10/15

• Most people take things like underwear for granted. At Catholic Charities, we have found that low-income families and seniors living on poverty-level incomes do not spend money on underwear and desperately need it.Last year, 50 parishes, schools, and organizations participated in the program. The collection makes a huge difference in the lives of our clients, and we pray that we can provide these much-needed items again this year.
• Collection Boxes will be placed in the Narthex for NEW underwear, undershirts, socks, and diapers for children and adults living in low-income households with the following special request
  • Women’s socks (all sizes)
  • Men’s boxers and boxer briefs (all sizes)
  • Other ways to help out are
    • You can also purchase items to donate through the Undy Sunday Amazon Wish List
    • 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

Bringing Holy Communion to Your Loved One that is Homebound

• Do you have a 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. Ministers visit the homebound, those in hospitals, and other care facilities to pray with them, bring the Eucharist and serve as a caring, listening presence. The Ministers of Care Ministry is a visible sign of the presence of the Church in our lives and continues the healing ministry of Jesus Christ.
• 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 the parish office at 630-851-3444 and arrangements will be made.  Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.” —John 6:35
• Caring for a Loved One with Mary” by Theresa Kiser is in the book kiosk. Completely occupied by the constant care necessary for her son’s medically complex situation, Theresa Kiser struggled to reconcile with the physical, emotional, social, and mental tolls it took on her family. But when she stumbled upon the devotion of the Seven Sorrows of Mary, she was surprised — and deeply relieved — to discover that Our Lady walked this caregiving road before her. The Seven Sorrows devotion nourished her soul with comfort, companionship, and grace at a time when she needed it most.
• First Annual Retreat for Parents/Caregivers of Persons with Disabilities 9/23 please see further details on this below.

Join the OLM Mixed Bowling League! (August through May)

• You need not be a good bowler. You only need to come out and enjoy some safe time out with fellow parishioners for one Friday a month. If you have thought about joining a league, now is the time to give it a try. There are 4 players to a team, but we will build a team for <4 players who wish to join. fees are $17person per month. the league will be one friday each month from august through may, skipping december. iif you have questions or would like join league, please contact dan panozzo at tanddpanozzo@comcast.net or call 815-302-4111. Come on out and join the fun!

Family Faith Formation Registration

• Calling all parents with children in grades Kindergarten through 12th Grade, please consider participating in the Family Faith Formation this year.
• Beginning families start your family faith journey at “Seek” and if your children is preparing for Reconciliation and First Communion, inquire about the “Mend” and “Nourish” pathways.
• Returning families can take part in the “Quest” pathway.
• If you have already made the decision to participate in the Family Faith Formation opportunities, we are thrilled to have you on board. To secure your spot find out details for each pathway; SEEK, ROOT, MEND, NOURISH and QUEST, we invite you to register immediately by clicking on the following link. Your spiritual journey awaits!

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column 

• Bishop Hicks’ monthly column for September is titled “Travel Lessons.” Read his insightful column HERE.

Scam Emails

• From time to time, there are phishing (SCAM) emails going out to members of the parish and staff claiming to be Father Michael.
  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 James, 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!

Our Lady of Mercy Garden of Hope, Love & Mercy

• The Justice & Peace Ministry, which has constructed a Community Garden on Our Lady of Mercy parish grounds and provided fresh produce over the past few months has had a fruitful season and looks forward to expanding in 2023. Produce from the garden has been donated to local organizations such as the Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry and  Hesed House. Late-season plantings are still producing vegetables and herbs. The faithful volunteers have been pleased with the success of this very worthy cause. If you have a green thumb or wish to participate in the preparation and planting, watering, weeding, and harvesting in early spring and throughout the 2023 growing season, please contact Chris at 631-561-9722 or chrisharveyny@gmail.com or Ida at 630-605-6038 or idamphillips122@gmail.com. 

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 movement!  Consider connecting with some of the families who have made the move from sending their child(ren) to public school to All Saints Catholic Academy.
• Connect with Patty Bajek at (630) 961-6125, or pbajek@ascacademy.org to express your interest and schedule a personalized tour.  Or peruse their website to explore your interest.  

St. Vincent de Paul Society Volunteers

• Thank you for your support of our clothing drive. Your clothing donation, as well as your financial donations throughout the year, allows us to help our parishioners and neighbors in need. In 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

• Check out the weekly Bulletin located here. 

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. In those moments, hope can feel far away. The great thing about prayer is that it shifts our perspective toward the One who stands ready to listen. No matter what you’re facing, we’d love to pray with you. Submit your prayer requests at this link
• Prayer Ministry takes place monthly at MAGNIFY and on the last weekend of the month Mass times.  Prayer ministry is an opportunity for those in need of physical, emotional, or spiritual healing or with a specific intention. Come as an individual, as a couple, or as. a family and receive prayer for yourself or request prayers for someone in need. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement. Trained prayer ministers are available.

Have you downloaded our myParish App yet?

• If you haven’t done so, we encourage you to download the Our Lady of Mercy app, available to download for iPhone and Android smartphones.  Or text APP to 88202 to download.
  • Stay connected with our parish throughout the week with instant notifications, an easy-to-access event calendar, and the ability to quickly reply to or share messages via Facebook or Twitter. Also enjoy a bunch of additional features like prayers, daily readings, helpful reminders to silence your phone before Mass or Confession, and much more.

OSV Giving Link Update

• Our online giving link has been updated by our provider (OSV), please be sure to update your bookmark, below is the link.
• The myParish App “Giving” button has been updated.  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.
• https://www.osvhub.com/olmercy/giving/funds