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October 14, 2023 | Parish Update

Put on the Life of Christ. Brogan Coat Drive. Lord of the Rings Retreat. A Day Trip to St. Maximilian Kolbe Shrine. And October 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 S.I.T. (Seminarian In Training)

Hello! I am so grateful to have gotten the chance to meet many of you at the parish. For those that I have not gotten the chance to meet, my name is Jonathan Hernandez. I am the seminarian assigned to Our Lady of Mercy by the Diocese. Perhaps you may have noticed that during the summer months this year I was absent. I was asked by my vocations director to stay at our cathedral and do a program called CPE (Clinical Pastoral Experience). This program was extremely helpful for my vocation. Through that experience I received the opportunity to serve at a hospice center, a homeless shelter, and bring communion to the sick on a consistent basis. I was able to encounter others’ sufferings in different forms and was in a privileged place where I was often let into places of deep suffering. Often faced with a loss of words this summer, I felt the Holy Spirit guiding me in how he wanted me to minister to each person I was with. I felt Christ wanting to heal his sons and daughters.

This summer experience made me realize that I too was suffering in ways that I didn’t acknowledge. As a seminarian, I experience a constantly shifting environment. Often, I am bombarded with activities, homework, and responsibilities. This can all be very tiring. While praying with the suffering of Christ, I realized at a heartfelt level that suffering should point outwards. Suffering is part of the human experience, and we weren’t meant to take it on all by ourselves. At the minimum, it should be given to Christ. Furthermore, it is when our suffering points outwards that we realize our suffering has a greater meaning. For example, we are called to love our neighbor even though this isn’t the easiest thing to do. Our neighbors often hurt us in words and deeds. Scarred by their actions, we can wallow in the injustice, or we can allow ourselves to feel the hurt, bring it to Christ, and try our best to treat them with the love and respect they deserve as people made in the image of God. Even if they do not reciprocate, we are loving as Christ loved.

What I have just described, is made possible only through a life anchored in Christ. It is his grace and his strength that allow us to abide in his vineyard. We hear St. Paul affirm this in the second reading: “I can do all things in him who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13). When we refuse to give our sufferings to God, we are pointed inwards, and this can become a truly dangerous place to be. In the Gospel reading today Jesus compares the Kingdom of Heaven to a wedding feast. As the King came in to meet the guests, there was one who was not dressed properly: “…how is that you came in here without a wedding garment?” (Mt 22:12) May this remind us to put on the life of Christ, configure and unite our thoughts, words, and actions to him. Give him your sufferings, and live for others, so that you might not be caught without a wedding garment! .

Jonathan Hernandez

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

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THIS COMING WEEK

Undy Sunday Collection THIS Weekend 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

Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day Memorial Service 10/15

• On Sunday, 10/15th, after the 10am Mass is the Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day Memorial Service by the monument near the outdoor Stations of the Cross in our parish grounds for parents whose lives are irrevocably altered by the passing of their children, during pregnancy, at birth, and in infancy.
• 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.

Diocesan Mass for Persons with disABILITIES 10/15

• The Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Ronald Hicks; refreshments and fellowship to follow. Those with disABILITIES, and their caregivers, will receive a special blessing. The Mass will be interpreted for the deaf by an ASL interpreter. Registration is required; please use the link below: https://www.diojoliet.org/w/mass-for-persons-with-disabilities 
• 2pm at St. Mary Immaculate (where Fr. James is currently assigned) 15629 South Route 59, Plainfield.

Mondays with Monica & Augustine Prayer Group Continues 10/16

• Come and pray for our loved ones and friends who have fallen away from the faith tonight at 7:30pm in the Church.
  
  Why pray with St Monica and St Augustine….
  
  It is a story of yesterday… and today.  St. Monica faced the challenge of having a pagan husband and faced an even deeper grief when her oldest son, Augustine, turned away from the Church. In college, Augustine, a brilliant student, fell for a “New Age” like philosophy, along with a string of vices. He eventually returned home, accompanied by his girlfriend and their young son.
  
  Throughout it all, St. Monica persisted in her prayers, which ultimately were answered beyond her imagining—though not quickly, nor in exactly the way she had thought. Still, God’s grace bore fruit in His time. After 17 years of spiritual wandering, Augustine experienced a profound conversion, becoming a great saint and one of the most influential theologians in Christian history.
  
  And now, we are privileged to have St. Monica and St. Augustine accompany us as we consider our own family situations amid the trials we face with our own loved ones who have fallen away from the Church, see you at OLM on Mondays at 7:30pm.

EDGE Night for Middle School Youth 10/16

• Middle school youth gather on Monday 10/16 from 6:30pm to 8pm for EDGE Nights, an activity-filled evening covering topics about the Catholic faith and challenging the middle school teens to grow in a relationship with Christ. Help your middle schooler find their identity in Christ; sign them up for EDGE Nights!
• Check out our EDGE webpage for details, session dates, and registration.

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 10/17

• For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers… Come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 10/17th 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 to fortify them in their current situation.

Consuming Fire Young Adult Group Continues 10/17

• 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. 
• Come to Consuming Fire this week for a talk on the Holy Spirit by Fr. Tom Logue!

Pray for Peace in Israel 10/17

• Let us answer the call from Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and all the Ordinaries of the Holy Land in calling for a day of fasting, abstinence, and prayer on Tuesday, 10/17th. 
  Come to the 8am or 6:30pm Mass times and pray the daily rosary after the 8am Mass time. The church is open from 8am to 9pm for prayer as well. Please invite others and let everyone know to be in prayer.
• “𝘖𝘯 𝘣𝘦𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘧 𝘰𝘧 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘖𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘏𝘰𝘭𝘺 𝘓𝘢𝘯𝘥, 𝘐 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘢 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘞𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘬 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘛𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘖𝘤𝘵𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘳 17, 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘢 𝘥𝘢𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘢𝘣𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳. 𝘓𝘦𝘵 𝘶𝘴 𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘻𝘦 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘌𝘶𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘢𝘥𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘙𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘉𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘝𝘪𝘳𝘨𝘪𝘯 𝘔𝘢𝘳𝘺. 𝘛𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘺 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘨𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘱𝘳𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘳, 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘎𝘰𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘍𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘦, 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.” — 𝘊𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘗𝘪𝘦𝘳𝘣𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘢 𝘗𝘪𝘻𝘻𝘢𝘣𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘢
• Read Cardinal Pizzaballa’s full statement here.

A Mother’s Heart Grow Group—Stories of Saints: Saint Francis 10/18

• Our Lady of Mercy’s “A Mother’s Heart Grow Group” invites mothers and their young children to experience “Stories of Saints” on Wednesday, 10/18 from 9:15am to 10:15am. We’ll begin with an opening song, a short video about a Saint and the letter of the day! Kids will participate in a craft and service project that reflects the life of our weekly Saint!
• Join us this week in room 108 to learn about “St. Francis of Assisi.” Please RSVP HERE for each child who will be participating so we can plan to welcome you! 

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 10/18

• The Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 10/18 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. Here is the Instagram postand Facebook post.
• 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. Mobile Food Pantries take place snow, rain, or shine!

Salt and Light Grow Group Continues 10/18

• 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.
• Check out olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org/saltandlight/ for further details and registration. Looking forward to seeing you @ OLM on Wednesdays for this awesome study!

Vine & Branches 10/18

• 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.
• The program “Surviving Divorce” by Ascension Press was created to bring hope and healing to those who have experienced the pain of a broken marriage. It includes the personal testimonies of Catholic men and women as they witness the healing power of Jesus in their lives.
• 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

SoulCore Fall Session Continues 10/18

• The Fall Session of SoulCore continues on Wednesday evenings at 7pm in Room 208!
• Nourish your body, mind, and soul with prayer-inspired workouts. The final fall classes are 10/18 & 10/25.

Alpha on 10/19

• We enter week 7 on Thursday 10/19th in Alpha, where we learn more about “How Does God Guide Us?” and with the most exciting part of the Alpha experience taking place on Saturday 10/21st for the Alpha Holy Spirit retreat.  Please keep the group in prayer, and if you’ve taken part in Alpha before but did not get a chance to attend the Alpha Holy Spirit retreat, come to the retreat, register for the retreat at this link!

Charismatic Healing Mass 10/21

• On Saturday, 10/21 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.

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.
• 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. 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.

Sign up for Weekly Adoration as we Prepare for our New Chapel to Open!

• In anticipation of the completion of our Eucharistic Adoration Chapel, we will hold adoration hours Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 6pm. Come and spend time with Jesus; it is one of the best things we can do for ourselves, for our family, and for Him. And If you’d like to sign up for a regular time to be with Jesus, click here.

LOOKING AHEAD

World Mission Sunday 10/22

• Dear Friends,
  
  On October 22, we celebrate World Mission Sunday, when we join Catholics worldwide in supporting the missionary work of the Church. Pope Francis draws inspiration from the Road to Emmaus story for the theme of this year’s World Mission Sunday: “Hearts on fire, feet on the move” (Luke 24:13–35). In his message, Pope Francis invites us to set our hearts ablaze with faith and put our faith into action, serving God’s mission with joy, enthusiasm, and tireless dedication:
  
  1. “Hearts on Fire”—As Christians, we’re called to kindle the fire of Christ’s love in our hearts. Our burning faith fuels our actions, inspiring us to serve others in our daily lives.
  
  2. “Feet on the Move”—Pope Francis encourages us to not only feel the faith but to act on it. It’s our mission to move, serve, and spread the Good News, bringing God’s love and peace to all His children.
  
  We can all contribute to this mission movement with prayers and activities, including material offerings. The collection taken on World Mission Sunday—the only mandatory collection held each year in every Catholic parish—is dedicated to supporting the missionary work of the Church.
  
  Your donations and prayers support helps fund missionary activities around the world, such as training future priests and religious, supporting religious Sisters, empowering catechists teaching the faith, funding clinics for the sick and dying, and providing homes for orphaned children.
  
  With “hearts on fire” and “feet on the move,” let us put our faith into action in every corner of the world by donating to the second collection on October 22.
  
  With every good wish, may God bless you.
  
  As I remain –
  Sincerely yours in Christ,
  Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks
  Bishop of Joliet

EDGE Night for Middle School Youth at FMSC 10/23

• Our EDGE middle school youth will be at Feed My Starving Children FMSC on 10/23rd from 7pm to 8:45pm.
• Middle school youth gather twice a month on Monday evenings from 6:30pm to 8pm for EDGE Nights, an activity-filled evening covering topics about the Catholic faith and challenging the middle school teens to grow in a relationship with Christ. Help your middle schooler find their identity in Christ; sign them up for EDGE Nights! They also have the opportunity to participate in a social or service gathering once a month.
• Check out our EDGE webpage for details, session dates, and registration.

The Chosen Season 3 Catholic Bible Study Begins 10/24

• 𝗡𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗯𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝗕𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆? 𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲? — 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗻 “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗻-𝗦𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝟯” 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗕𝗶𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂!
  Through both watching the series episode and breaking open the Scripture readings related to each episode, this Catholic Bible Study experience will enable you to imagine ourselves in the story.  Sign up soon, and don’t forget to bring a friend.
• When: Tuesdays starting 10/23 @ 7pmContact: Joe Wiacek and Joe Glasgow OLMBiblestudies@gmail.com Registration: Please register here 
  This Catholic Bible Study about the life of Christ, is based on the TV series “The Chosen.”  It portrays Jesus through the eyes of those who met Him. The study session will include an opening prayer, a brief introduction to the episode, scripture reading, episode viewing, discussion/reflection, and a closing prayer. We look forward to seeing you on Tuesday 10/24th.
• All you need to bring is your Bible; a study guide will be provided where you can jot down your answers or notes from the Bible Study.
  Here is the trailer 

Magnify Adoration Night 10/25

• Our monthly MAGNIFY is on Wednesday 10/25 from 7pm-8:30pm when we host a night of adoration in the church with praise and worship by Josh Goodman. After a scriptural reflection there will be opportunities for confession and prayer ministry.
• We pray that you come and spend time in prayer with Jesus, encountering Him in a special way. He is personally inviting you to come and share your heart with Him. Join us anytime from 7pm to 8:30pm in the Church. Don’t forget to bring your children, neighbors, and friends.
• Perhaps also spend time at MAGNIFY to pray for peace for Israel to the Prince of Peace, our Lord Jesus, in the Holy Eucharist.

Exploring Priesthood Weekend at Mundelein Seminary 10/27 to 10/29

• Join us for an exciting weekend at the University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary. This in-person free event is perfect for men who are college juniors or older curious about the priesthood
• Discover what it means to serve as a priest and explore the path to becoming one. Engage in thought-provoking discussion and meet fellow individuals on a similar journey.
• Save your spot and sign up by 10/23rd HERE

Lord of the Rings: Two Evenings of Retreat 10/27 & 10/28

• Led by Fr. Andy Davy, a Marian Father of the Immaculate Conception and good friend of Fr. Michael, Fr. Andy explores the following themes each night, examining our Christian vocation using excerpts from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings who was a devout Catholic and had a deep love of the Eucharist.
• Night 1 “Imaginative Apologetics: A Decisive Battleground for the New Evangelization”
  Night 2 “Priest, Prophet, and King: Renewing our Baptismal Call Through The Lord of the Rings”
• We hope to see you Friday, 10/27th, and Saturday, 10/28th
  from 7pm to 8:30pm in the Parish Life Center.
• All ages are welcome so please bring the entire family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers!
• Fr. Andy Davy is an amazing storyteller and pastor at St. Mary Parish in Plano. This retreat will be one of the last ministries he will hold before leaving for his new assignment. He will be the postulant director of the Marian Fathers in the U.S., looking after the first-year Marian priests coming into the community at the National Shrine of Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA, starting 10/30th.
  Hit up the following links to learn more about the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception and the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA.
  Come Holy Spirit to Fr. Andy Davy!

Host a Table for Saints Around the World 10/28

• Join us on 10/28th from 1:30pm to 3:30pm in the MPR to celebrate our awesome “Saints Around the World!” We are seeking individuals to “sponsor” a Saint table! Each “sponsor” will be given a table to represent their Saint! Please comment on the Sign-up Genius with the Saint from the country you select! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/409094FADAF2CA6F58-saints#/
• We invite you to dress as the Saint of your choosing and to get creative with sharing their life and good deeds! Some examples of things to include might be, a bite to eat, where their relics can be found, what they are known for (patronage), their feast day, pictures, facts about their life, apparitions, devotions, prayer cards and more!
• We hope you will prayerfully consider being an instrument that helps bring this event and the lives of the Saints to life! Set-Up for your Saint table between 12pm and 1pm. The event begins at 1:30pm! Sign up to host a “Saints Around the World” here.

Prayer Ministry 10/28 & 10/29

• Receive Prayer Ministry after all the Mass times the weekend of 10/28 and 10/29! 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.

Holiday Pie Sale Fundraiser 10/28 & 10/29

• 𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗜𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝗣𝗜𝗘 𝗦𝗔𝗟𝗘 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗔𝘄𝗲𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗧𝗲𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗔𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗽!
  Order pies for the holidays after all Mass times on 10/28 & 10/29 for the Holidays, and if you wish, you can also order a pie to donate to Hesed House. Pies will be delivered the weekend before Thanksgiving.

Brogan Family Coat Drive 10/29

• The annual Brogan Family Coat Drive will be on Sunday 10/29th from 9am-12pm. There will be a trailer in the parking lot waiting to receive your donations. Clear out your coat closets for a good cause!
• 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. Items for women and children will benefit Mutual Ground and the items for men will benefit Breaking Free.

Confirmation for our High School Teens 10/29

• Let us be in prayer for our 71 Confirmandi as they receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We welcome Bishop Conlon to the parish for the Sacrament of Confirmation on Sunday 10/29th at 2:30pm. Come Holy Spirit!

Salt and Light Grow Group is Hosting a Day Field Trip to the National Shrine of St. Maximilian Kolbe. Register by 10/29

• Prepare yourself for a day of spiritual enlightenment and reverence as we embark on a captivating field trip to the National Shrine of St. Maximilian Kolbe! Join us for a day filled with faith, learning, and deep reflection, all in the beautiful setting of the Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. As well as hearing from a presentation coinciding with the Church’s dedication to praying for our departed loved ones, by award-winning author Susan Tassone exploring the realms of purgatory.
• Itinerary.
  6:45am Arrive at Our Lady of Mercy. Get ready for an enriching day ahead as we gather at Our Lady of Mercy, where our journey begins.
  7am Departure. Board our comfortable bus and set forth on our adventure to the National Shrine of St. Maximilian Kolbe.
  8am Susan Tassone Presentation in Conference Center. Immerse yourself in the wisdom of Susan Tassone, a renowned “Purgatory Lady” and award-winning author. The morning unfolds with registration and a delightful continental breakfast, followed by a rosary session. From 9am to 11am, delve into Susan Tassone’s compelling presentation, exploring the realms of purgatory and discovering her newest book, “New Friends Now and Forever; A Story about the Holy Souls.”
  12pm Mass in Main Chapel. Experience the serenity of a noon Mass in the awe-inspiring Main Chapel, a moment of spiritual connection and tranquility.
  12:45pm Buffet Lunch in Guest Dining Room. Indulge in a delicious buffet lunch in the Guest Dining Room, where you can mingle with fellow attendees and share the day’s spirit. 
  1:30pm Group Gathering in Founders Hall. Engage in a captivating session led by Brother Don in Founders Hall. Explore St. Kolbe’s legacy through a video presentation, insightful discussions, and a guided tour of the St. Kolbe Holocaust Exhibit. Additionally, enjoy moments of private adoration, visit the Gift Shop, explore the Outdoor Shrines, and stroll along the Rosary Walk.
  2:45pm Blessing with St. Kolbe Relic. Gather outside the Chapel for a touching and sacred blessing with the St. Kolbe Relic, a moment that encapsulates the essence of our spiritual journey.
  3pm Departure. Bid farewell to the National Shrine of St. Maximilian Kolbe, carrying the day’s blessings and insights with you.
  4pm Return to Our Lady of Mercy. Our bus will safely transport us back to Our Lady of Mercy, concluding our divine day trip.
• Price is $40 per person. Includes Susan Tassone’s enlightening presentation, a delightful buffet lunch, and a group visit and tour of the Shrine.At the heart of Marytown lies the Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, a beacon of spiritual solace and one of the nation’s most cherished pilgrimage sites. Modeled after Kolbe’s evangelization centers in Poland and Japan, it stands as a testament to faith and devotion.
• There is a limited number of spots; reserve one of the 40 spots soon. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to enrich your spirit and deepen your faith. Sign up today and join us on this extraordinary journey.

Join us as we celebrate the Solemnity of All Saints and All Souls at the end of this month 10/31 through 11/2

• On the Solemnity of All Saints we celebrate the Saints in heaven, those known and unknown.
  Vigil Mass 10/31 @ 6:30pm
  Mass Times 11/1 @ 8am, 12pm, & 6:30pm
• In the Commemoration of the Faithful Departed, or All Souls, we remember and pray for the souls of all who have died.  
  Mass Times 11/2 @ 6:30am, 8am, & 6:30pm* 
  *𝘛𝘩𝘦 6:30𝘱𝘮 𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘙𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘥 one, 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘢 𝘧𝘶𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘭 𝘔𝘢𝘴𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳 𝘢𝘵 𝘖𝘶𝘳 𝘓𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘔𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘺.

Charismatic Healing Mass 11/4

• On Saturday, 11/4 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.  

PADS/Hesed House Drop-Off Weekend 11/4 & 11/5

• The OLM PADS/Hesed House Board is now on display in the Atrium (Door B Entrance). The board contains a “wishlist” of items used to prepare meals for 250 guests at the Hesed House homeless shelter, on the first Tuesday of each month. Drop-off for all items are before all Masses on the weekend of 11/4th and 11/5th, 2023. 
• Monetary donations can be made via the OLM Online Giving Portal (please specify donation is for Hesed House), or make checks payable to Our Lady of Mercy Church, and write on the memo “Hesed House PADS”

Joyful Again! Retreat for Widowed Men & Women 11/4 & 11/5

• The Joyful Again! Program is a unique retreat/workshop for both men and women (all ages) who have been widowed and are still trying to find hope and new joy in life. All are welcome. 
• What: Retreat/workshop for Widowed Men & Women
  When: November 4 & 5 (2-day program – overnight only)
  Where: Nazareth Retreat House, Batavia
  For further information, call: 708-354-7211. e-mail us at: joyfulagain7211@gmail.com or click HERE

Knights of Columbus Blood Drive 11/11

• Donate blood Saturday 11/11th from 8am to 12pm at the Knights of Columbus Council #12005 Blood Drive.  Every donor will save up to 3 lives!  While appointments are greatly appreciated, walk-ins are welcome. You can register ahead of time at this link.
• Please make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating. Also please bring a photo ID.

Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast 11/12

• Easting pancakes for a good cause is so fruitful; Knights of Columbus was able to purchase 36 winter coats for kids and teens which was donated to Catholic Charities of Joliet. Thank you to all who came and donated to this great cause by eating pancakes for a good cause at our Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast in September! 
• Our next breakfast will be Sunday 11/12th from 8am to 12pm with profits benefiting Waterleaf; we hope you come out and enjoy a stack of pancakes again for a worthwhile cause.

Save the Date for the Justice & Peace Ministry’s Fair Trade Sale 12/10

• Mark your calendar and save the date for our annual Fair Trade Sale on Sunday December 10, 2023. Ten Thousand Villages will bring fair trade items to OLM. This is not a fundraiser but an opportunity to support artisans and farmers through fair trade purchases.
• Fair trade is a commitment to a fairer world— ensuring that people who make and grow products have a place to sell them, that they’re fairly paid, and that their working conditions and communities are healthy. Visit SERRV.ORG and learn more.

For the High School Youth

• Our Lady of Mercy’s amazing program for high school teens is LIGHT Living In God’s Holy Truth. It is also where teens are invited to participate in the sacrament of Confirmation program called “Chosen.” It meets twice a month for formation. Let the high school teen in your life know of these wonderful gatherings, a place for teens to discover their purpose and identity; sign up at the following link through 11/15th.
  • High School teens taking part in the LIGHT program have an amazing life-changing, character-building opportunity to go on a Mission Trip!
    𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗽?
    Mission trips are domestic and international volunteer opportunities centered on serving residents and communities in need through sustainable service projects.
    High school teens will serve elderly, disabled, veteran, and low-income families through home repair and construction projects. Project examples are home repairs, wheelchair ramp construction, or porch and deck repairs.
    𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗦𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗧𝗲𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗚𝗼 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗽?
    Beyond the service projects, mission trips are powerful experiences to:
    Build character
    Focus on others’ needs
    Develop leadership skills
    Invest in the next generation
    Grow in faith and relationship with Jesus
    Build authentic relationships
    Earn community service hours
    Disrupt the busyness of everyday life
    It’s an awesome transformative experience, encourage the high school teen in your life to go on the OLM Teen Mission Trip to Winchester, Kentucky in 2024!
    ___
    𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀, 𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝟳 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗧𝗲𝗲𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗻 𝗮 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗽
    1. EXPERIENCE NEW CULTURE, BROADEN VIEWS
    The most noticeable part of leaving home is experiencing a new culture. By being planted in a new community, your teen will be able to practice compassion by walking in another person’s shoes. Having a broadened worldview is beneficial to teens as they prepare to leave for college.
    2. EXPERIENCE LIVING OUTSIDE THEIR COMFORT ZONE BEFORE GOING TO COLLEGE
    Leaving home before the big move to college gives teenagers a leg up in real-world experiences outside their childhood home. College is often the first time a student is away from their family. However, if they have gone on a short-term mission trip to a new city (or country), they will feel more prepared to leave home once they graduate. The confidence felt in being fully capable and functional on their own, empowers them in their new life away from home.
    3. MAKE AN IMPACT BY SPREADING HIS GLORY
    Teens can see His love and compassion across the globe, and instant connections can be made across language barriers due to sharing God’s love. Additionally, they can see just how much small acts can impact communities in need, glorify God, and change the lives of not only them but those that they serve.
    4. TRAVEL TO NEW PLACES
    Participating in a mission trip can give you the chance to travel, and to go with a purpose. The benefits of traveling are vast – the obvious of which is getting to experience a new place in great depth. Traveling can also help in gaining new skills like social interaction and communication. You get to interact with people who have a different view on life and learn how to incorporate that into how you think on a global scale. This can translate into more creative thinking and improved school discussions. Traveling has been known to assist people in self-reflection and exploration, something teenagers can benefit from greatly.
    5. PARTICIPATE IN VOLUNTEER WORK
    The volunteer work done on a short-term mission trip can foster a heart of compassion, a value that can be taught at any age and sticks with you for life. This can assist teens in shifting from a self-centric perspective to a selfless attitude. As they serve others, God’s name is glorified, and that can make a massive impact on the life of a teenager.
    6. MAKE LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS
    The relationships made on a short-term mission trip can last a lifetime due to eating, sleeping, traveling, and serving together 24 hours a day. It forces friendship. However, these friendships are like no other; they are centered in Christ, and they are experiencing life-changing events together, causing the friendship to strengthen immensely. Mission trips provide teenagers with the space to form bonds as they grow their personal relationship with God.
    7. STRENGTHEN FAITH AND RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD
    A mission trip is a wonderful place to feel God’s presence. It gives one the opportunity to spread His word and serve His people while also strengthening their own personal relationship with God. Hard work in a small community with peers who passionately love Jesus helps to provide a Christ-centered community for believers who can grow in love and faith together.

• Explore the value of sending your student to a Catholic School by attending any of the following open houses.  
  Beyond teaching science, technology and many other advanced and core courses, Catholic School teachers lead meaningful and open classroom discussions about faith, morality and Catholic spirituality. Teachers and staff are focused on instilling Catholic values and beliefs into the young hearts and minds of students so they understand they belong to a larger faith community, and have the character to make choices based on the teachings of Christ.
  Catholic schools offer a diverse collection of clubs, sports and activities to suit a variety of interests. Our students’ academic achievements earn them valuable high school and college scholarships. Our schools empower our students with the knowledge, self-confidence, and moral compass to become leaders in college and beyond, changing and bettering their communities and their world.
  • Marmion High School will be holding an open house on Wednesday 10/18th at 6:30pm and Sunday 11/5th at 1pm. All 5th to 8th grade boys and their families are invited.
  • St. Francis High School College Preparatory will be holding an open house on Thursday 10/19th at 6:30pm and Sunday, 11/5th at 1pm.
  • Aurora Central Catholic will be holding an open house on Thursday 10/26th from 5:30pm to 7pm and Sunday 11/5th 12:30pm to 2pm.

Have a Minister of Care Bring 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.

Family Faith Formation Registration

• It’s not too late to register your child(ren) in Kindergarten through 12th Grade for the Family Faith Formation that have started!
• Beginning families, start your family faith journey at “Seek” and if your children are 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 decided 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 “1000 Days.” Read his insightful column HERE.
  • Our diocese was founded on December 11, 1948. For an entire year, we will highlight the great accomplishments of our past and 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 and activities leading up to the year-long celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Diocese of Joliet, watch the video 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 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

• 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.

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.
• OSV is an online website that makes contributions faster, easier, and accessible at anytime for donors. 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.