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February 4, 2024 | Parish Update

A Sacred Space. CMAA 2024. & Ash Wednesday.

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

       I’m pretty good at throwing parties, in particular, pity parties. When I was 25 years old, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. As I look back, I know that the Lord uses all things for His glory because my diagnosis led to my priestly discernment. But, for selfish reasons, it added to my pity party; I was now a proud owner of “the cancer card”! I remember one time when my sister and I were discussing with my mom where we should all go to dinner. My sister and I had different ideas of which restaurant to go to, but ultimately, I won in the end. Why? Because I had cancer!

       I bring this up because in our first reading, Job is throwing his own pity party. “Job spoke, saying: ‘Is not man’s life on earth is a drudgery?’” (Job 7:1) Now, I don’t think it’s just Job or myself that tend to feel this way sometimes. Why? Well, when we are going through our crosses and trials, or when we are hurting, we typically feel isolated and alone. We may feel like no one can grasp or comprehend what we are actually going through. 

       However, what our faith makes clear is that we are never alone, and the Lord knows exactly what we are going through. In our Gospel reading today, the Lord seeks out Peter’s Mother-in-Law who is sick. Not only does the Lord seek us out, but we are also able to approach Him and call out in our need. Later in Job’s story, he will cry out to the Lord and the Lord will hear his cry. In the Gospel, many people come to Lord seeking healing as the sun sets. 

      May I invite us, especially with the crosses we bear, to seek out the Lord in prayer instead of throwing a pity party and feeling isolated. Next Sunday, February 11th, after the Noon Mass Bishop Ronald Hicks will dedicate our new Adoration Chapel. My hope is that this sacred space may become a place where many can come and bring their crosses before the Lord, knowing that they are never alone, and that the Lord is with them!

Father Michael

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

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Mondays with Monica & Augustine Prayer Group Continues 2/5

• Join us at OLM on Mondays at 7:30 pm, where we can find inspiration and companionship in the stories of St. Monica and St. Augustine. Together, let’s reflect on our family situations and navigate the challenges we encounter with our loved ones who may have strayed from the Church. See you there!

Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group Continues 2/6

• Calling all young adults, join our Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group (CFYA) on Tuesday at 7pm for community and faith building. The talk on Tuesday evening will be about “Preparing for Lent.” Reach out to cfyagg@gmail.com to get plugged in with the group or sign up at the link HERE

Bible Studies Continue on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 2/6 & 2/7

• 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
  • Ascension Press The Timeline Bible Study.Held on Wednesdays at 7pm for 22 sessions (with a summer break). This Bible Study is a great fit for those new to the Bible.  See the trailer below.  Please register here for this study.
    The Bible Timeline® Study Program takes you n a guided journey through salvation history. Presenter Jeff Cavins shows you how fourteen of the Bible’s narrative books tell the biblical story from beginning to end and gives you the keys to understanding the amazing story woven through Scripture. Please purchase the study guide online at this link.  Check out the trailer here.
  • The Gospel of John.Held on Tuesdays at 7pm for about 8 sessions. This Bible Study is a great fit for those that have made Bible Study part of their relationship with Jesus.  See the trailer below.  Please register here for this study.  We will use the Ascension Press Follow Me: Meeting Jesus in the Gospel of John study guide and video. Please purchase the study guide online at this link. Here is the trailer for this wonderful study.

Vine & Branches Continues 2/7

• 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 2/7 & 2/8

• Join Salt and Light Grow Group for 𝗙𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗚𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘆’𝘀 “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗼𝗹𝗱” for fast-paced and lively sessions through a video talk followed by group discussion.
• Join us either 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.

Fit Shepherds on Wednesday and Saturday mornings

• To all men, as we embrace the New Year and thoughts turn to fitness resolutions, consider joining Fit Shepherds—a unique blend 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.
• 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
• Get a glimpse of a Saturday morning work out and see the video below.

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.

Support the Teen Mission Trip & Help Raise $10,000 so that Fr. Michael Shaves Off his Beard! 

• Let us aim to raise $10,000 so he can shave it all off for a worthy cause; to support our teens going on the Mission Trip this summer. (Did you know that the teens are individually responsible for the cost of the trip as well as the tools needed?) Donate online through Our Sunday Visitor platform here: https://www.osvhub.com/olmercy/giving/funds
•  Please also keep our teens, parents, and volunteers in prayer, as they prepare for and go on the Mission Trip.
  𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘀𝗼 𝗺𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘀𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁.

Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal  2024 on 2/10 & 2/11

• We will hear from Bishop Hicks about the 2024 Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal at all the Mass times during the weekend of 2/10 through 2/11.  The CMAA is a powerful way we can honor God’s glory by helping our neighbors in need.Every day, across the Diocese of Joliet, your generosity is making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate through Catholic Charities, inspiring our next generation of faithful in our Catholic schools and parishes, and it’s educating the men who will devote their lives to shepherding us as our future priests. Please prayerfully consider what you are able to give and live your faith fully by making your gift today. Your generosity is so greatly appreciated. Thank you for sharing your blessings!
• Fill out the envelope during the Mass or donate online here.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/cWINlRjvTAQKnights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast 2/11

• The Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast has been rescheduled for Sunday, February 11th from 8am to Noon in the PLC. Plan on stopping by for a delicious breakfast while helping to support the Teen Mission Trip. Tickets will be available at the door.

Eucharistic Adoration Chapel Dedication 2/11

• Please join us on Sunday 2/11th as Bishop Hicks will be dedicating the new Eucharistic Adoration Chapel immediately following the Noon Mass. (around 1pm) This dedication will be followed by a cake and coffee reception hosted by Fr. Michael and Fr. Frank in the PLC. See you there!

Eucharistic Adoration Begins in the Chapel 2/12

• On Monday 2/12th after the 8:30am Mass, Eucharistic Adoration begins in the Chapel. Adorers who have signed up for an hour commitment during the week will allow for anyone to stop by and pray with Jesus Monday through Friday 8:30am through 6pm.  Here are a few guidelines to be keep in mind.
  • Please adore in silence.
  • Please sign in. Whether you are just visiting or a committed adorer, we are asking that you please sign in. Beside the doors into the chapel is a wall mounted kiosk where you can sign in, just select “Adorer Sign In.”  To get familiar with this process here is a link to the check-in software.
  • The statues are so beautiful it makes you want to touch them; however, we are asking if you could please refrain from touching them.

Walking Through Grief 6-Week Series Begins 2/12

• 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, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/4, 3/11, & 3/18 in Room 208 in the Parish Life Center (PLC)
• Registration is requested, Please connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 

Living With Grief Session- “Caring For Your Heart While Grieving” 2/13

• 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.
• Come to our session “Caring For Your Heart While Grieving” on Tuesday 2/13th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.

Join us on Ash Wednesday 2/14

• Begin Lent with us on Ash Wednesday 2/14th and receive Ashes at either the 6:30am, 8am, 12pm (livestreamed), 7pm Mass times or at the 5:30pm Scripture Service.
• To find out more about Ash Wednesday check out our FAQ page (is it a Holy Day of Obligation, does someone need to be Catholic to receive ashes etc.)

The Rescue Project Begins 2/15

• “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
  𝟭𝟬 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗜𝘀 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂
  1. Perhaps you would like to resonate with some of the feedback mentioned above.
  2. If you are experiencing OR think of the Christian faith as a mere set of rules and disciplines.
  3. If going to Mass is boring or attending a Church service is more a habit (a check the box) than something you feel a need to participate in.
  4. If Jesus is only a figure in ancient history for you.
  5. If you have been walking with Jesus for years and love Him.
  6. If you want to experience the gospel surrounded by good food, conversation, and prayer.
  7. If you want to experience beauty, authentic humanity, and accompaniment.
  8. If you want to go into a deeper dive into your relationship with Jesus this Lent.
  9. If you are at juncture in life and are uncertain of what to do next.
  10. If you don’t know Jesus, want to know Him and recognize being known by Him.
  𝗪𝗲’𝗿𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 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!
• Check out the personal message below from Fr. John Riccardo to you!

Register for the Rescue Project

Winter Vianney Visit 2/15-2/17

• 𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗼𝗼 𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝘂𝗽 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗩𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝘆 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁!
  Spend a winter weekend developing your prayer life and trust in God’s plan for you. The Vianney Visit provides high school sophomores through college age men (ages 16–24) the opportunity to take a closer look and experience college seminary. Attend Mass, prayer and spiritual conferences with SJV priests and hear testimonies from SJV seminarians. 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁. 𝗔𝗹𝗹 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗱.For more information & registration forms, please click here: https://www.diojoliet.org/w/vianney-visit

Migrant Support Collection 2/17 & 2/18

• Looking for a way to support the many migrant families arriving in the area?
  𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗶𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗼𝗻-𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗺𝘀, 𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗰𝗹𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 & 𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘀, 𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀, 𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀 (𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 𝘀𝗶𝘇𝗲 𝟰/𝟱/𝟲) 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝗽𝗲𝘀 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗙𝗲𝗯𝗿𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝟭𝟳𝘁𝗵 & 𝟭𝟴𝘁𝗵.  
• These items will be brought to the Mission of Our Lady of the Angels in West Humboldt Park. The Franciscans of the Eucharist of Chicago have been serving many families, and the need for material support is very high. Thank you so much for your generosity.
• You can find out more about the Mission of Our Lady of the Angels here:
  https://www.missionola.com/
• Franciscans of the Eucharist of Chicago:
  https://www.franciscansoftheeucharistofchicago.com/ 
• Questions? Please contact Chris Harvey at 631-561-9722 OR chrisharveyny@gmail.com

Fill an Easter Bag for a Child in Need 2/17 & 2/18

• Service Opportunity: Fill an Easter Bag for a Child in Need!
  Pick up a Bag at OLM the Weekend of Feb. 17th & 18th
• Fill your bag with items and return by the weekend of March 9th & 10th
  These Easter Bags will benefit children and families assisted by the Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry. 
• Questions? Contact lydias@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org

Donut Sunday 2/18

• Stop by the PLC after the 8am and 10am Masses on Sunday, February 18th for Yummy Donuts, Good Coffee & Wonderful Fellowship.

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

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!

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

• Register now for CRHP, 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 in the meantime, 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 next 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 soon

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 7 am – 4 pm 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

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

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*

2024 Knights of Columbus Free Throw Champions

• The Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus Council #12005 would like to congratulate the following winners of our free throw competition held January 18, 2024, at the Our Lady of Mercy Parish Life Center:
  Gabriella Curcio, Aiden Gross, Juan Pablo Cordero, Giovanni Sanderlin
       We wish them luck as they move on to the District competition in February, with the winners advancing to the Regional competition in March.
       We thank all the kids that came out for a fun evening of competition.
  Congratulations once again.

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 Deacon Bugsy Sindanc at bugsys@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org and arrangements will be made. 
• 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.

Is God Calling You to the Priesthood?

• Marriage is good and priesthood is good so how do you choose between two goods?  Connect with Fr Michael at frmichael@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org and speak with him.

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column 

• Bishop Hicks’ monthly column for January is titled “Benefits of a Paper Calendar in the Digital Age” 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.
• ther” Read his insightful column HERE.

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 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!

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 2023, we provided assistance to 79 households, helping 200 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.

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January 21, 2024 | Parish Update

Hope. Save the Date for Eucharistic Adoration Chapel Dedication. & The Rescue Project.

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

     For our comprehensive exam in seminary, we were given a pastoral scenario, and we were asked to write a homily responding to it. After we had submitted the homilies, we decided to see what the artificial intelligence bot, ChatGPT, would come up with. The homily it generated started pretty well: “In this reading, Jesus calls us to love God and to love our neighbor.” But things went downhill pretty quickly. “And you, as sinners, are in direct violation of the Church’s teachings.” The AI-generated homily might have been correct in essentials, but it lacked any sense of hope in God’s mercy.

     In the First Reading, we hear about Jonah’s preaching mission to the people of Nineveh. After he runs from God’s command to preach repentance, is swallowed, and spit up by a great fish, he preaches a hopeless sermon: “Forty days more and Nineveh shall be destroyed.” But astonishingly, this pagan city repents before Jonah can even finish preaching, and God shows them mercy.

     In the Gospel, Jesus calls Peter, Andrew, James, and John to be fishers of men. Biblical scholar John Bergsma says that this is a fulfillment of a prophecy of Jeremiah: “I will send many fishermen to catch them. After that, I will send many hunters to hunt them out from every mountain and hill and rocky crevice” (Jer 16:16). The context of the original prophecy is judgment on Israel’s idolatry. But in Jesus’ fulfillment, something surprising happens. Rather than condemning sinners, the fishermen are sent to preach repentance.

     So what changes an oracle of judgment into an oracle of mercy? It is our response. We don’t change God, but He sends His messengers to preach repentance in order to change us. In both readings, we see people responding to the calls to repentance almost instantly. What moves them to respond in this way?

     It is the virtue of hope. Hope looks to the future good of our eternal happiness and believes it is possible. This hope is what leads the Ninevites and the apostles to believe that God wants to show them mercy and wants a relationship with them. But how can we live the same hope in our lives?

We often think of hope as wishful thinking. But Pope Benedict XVI tells us that hope comes from the objective fact that God has come into our lives, making that future hope take root in our present. We have probably already accepted God into our lives. But this can always grow deeper so that we can truly believe that if we also turn to God in repentance of our sins, He will change us.

     Unlike the AI-generated homily of my classmates, today’s readings call us to new hope in God’s mercy, not only that God wants to forgive us, but that He is longing to forgive us when we repent of our sins. It might seem impossible, but if we open our hearts to God in repentance, then He will help us the rest of the way.

Father Frank

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

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Mondays with Monica & Augustine Prayer Group Continues 1/22

• Come and pray for our loved ones and friends who have fallen away from the faith at 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝘆𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗲 from 7:30pm – 8:30pm 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.
       Join us at OLM on Mondays at 7:30 pm, where we can find inspiration and companionship in the stories of St. Monica and St. Augustine. Together, let’s reflect on our family situations and navigate the challenges we encounter with our loved ones who may have strayed from the Church. See you there!
  __
  𝘏𝑒𝘳𝑒 𝑖𝘴 𝘱𝑎𝘳𝑡 𝑜𝘧 𝘵ℎ𝘦 𝘳𝑒𝘧𝑙𝘦𝑐𝘵𝑖𝘰𝑛 𝑡𝘩𝑖𝘴 𝘤𝑜𝘮𝑖𝘯𝑔 𝑀𝘰𝑛𝘥𝑎𝘺 𝘑𝑎𝘯𝑢𝘢𝑟𝘺 22𝘯𝑑 𝑎𝘵 7:30𝘱𝑚
  The ache of having an estranged prodigal isn’t merely a sadness that comes and goes. It’s the whole experience of brokenness. we have held our prodigal children in our arms, in our hearts, and they still live there-even when they’ve grown, even when they’ve rejected what we hoped would be their greatest treasure. It’s hard not to feel as if we’ve failed in parenting, and those feelings can make it very difficult not to lose our temper, not to lash out. We will fail at times and say things that reveal our hurt.

Bible Studies Starts on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 1/24 & 1/30

• How exciting! There are two Bible Study opportunities coming up. 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

• Ascension Press The Timeline Bible Study.Held on Wednesdays at 7pm starting on 1/24th for 22 sessions (with a summer break). This Bible Study is a great fit for those new to the Bible.  See the trailer below.  Please register here for this study.
  The Bible Timeline® Study Program takes you n a guided journey through salvation history. Presenter Jeff Cavins shows you how fourteen of the Bible’s narrative books tell the biblical story from beginning to end and gives you the keys to understanding the amazing story woven through Scripture. Using a unique color-coded chart, you will learn the major people, places, and events of the Bible and discover how they all come together to reveal the remarkable story of our Faith. Please purchase the study guide online at this link.

• The Gospel of John.Held on Tuesdays at 7pm starting on 1/30th for about 8 sessions. This Bible Study is a great fit for those that have made Bible Study part of their relationship with Jesus.  See the trailer below.  Please register here for this study.
  • We will use the Ascension Press Follow Me: Meeting Jesus in the Gospel of John study guide and video. Please purchase the study guide online at this link.
  • We will also read from The Gospel of John – Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture by Francis Martin and William M Wright IV; this commentary is a favorite reference by priests (Fr Michael, Fr Frank, Fr James). While this book is additional reading and is not mandatory, here is the link in case you would like to purchase it.

Vine & Branches Continues 1/24

• 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 1/24 & 1/25

• Join Salt and Light Grow Group for 𝗙𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗚𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘆’𝘀 “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗼𝗹𝗱” for fast-paced and lively sessions through a video talk followed by group discussion.
• Join us either 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.

Fit Shepherds 1/27

• To all men, as we embrace the New Year and thoughts turn to fitness resolutions, consider joining Fit Shepherds—a unique blend of physical and spiritual growth. Join Fit Shepherds 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.
• 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.

Weekly Adoration

• COME AND ADORE OUR LORD! Eucharistic Adoration is held three times a week at OLM! So come and encounter Jesus anytime this week at 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!

We’re almost there, we have the following time slots that do not have anyone signed up to spend time with Jesus; we’re praying you would be the one to sign up for any of the following time spots
Tuesday 8:30am, 4pm
Wednesday 5pm
Thursday 8:30am
Friday 10am, 4pm
Our hope is that two individuals sign up for each of the hourly timeslots Monday through Friday from 8:30am through 5pm; please help us achieve this goal.  It truly is the best time that you could gift yourself. Click here to sign up.

Prayer Ministry 1/27 & 1/28

• Receive Prayer Ministry after all the Mass times the weekend of 1/27 and 1/28! 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 family. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement. Trained prayer ministers will be available in the back of Church.

PADS Items Drop-Off 1/27 & 1/28

• Our next PADS service day is Tuesday, 2/6. 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. Drop off the items on weekend of 1/27 & 1/28. Please help us feed the hungry. You may also donate monetarily online at the following link under “Hesed House.”

Donut Sunday 1/28

• Stop by the PLC after the 8am and 10am Masses on Sunday, January 28th for Yummy Donuts, Good Coffee & Wonderful Fellowship. 

Consuming Fire Talk “Faith & Reason” with Dr. Fernanda Psihas 1/30

• Let’s unravel the scientific tapestry of time and explore the authentic Catholic perspective on science, creation, and the vast Universe by coming to the talk on “Faith and Reason” by particle physicist Dr. Fernanda Psihas on Tuesday 1/30th at 7pm. 🚀 Don’t miss out on this mind-expanding journey! #FaithAndReason #ScienceMeetsSpirituality✨

Magnify 1/31

• Join us @ MAGNIFY on January 31st from 7pm-8:30pm
• Our monthly MAGNIFY is on Wednesday 1/31 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 7- 8:30pm in the Church. Don’t forget to bring your children, neighbors, and friends. 

2023 Tax Statements will be mailed out no later than 1/31

• Tax Statements for 2023 will be mailed out no later than 1/31st to anyone who donated $250 or more for the 2023 calendar year, thank you for your genorosity. If you do not receive a statement and would like one to be mailed out, please email Lydia Schmitt at lydias@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org or call 331-707-5377.

First Friday and Saturday Devotions 2/2 & 2/3

• 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝘂𝘀 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀! This Friday and Saturday, 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 7 am – 4 pm 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

Healing the Whole Person Weekend Retreat at St. Isaac Jogues 2/8 – 2/10

• Join us on this journey to wholeness as we enter into the heart, face the pains and wounds within, and allow Christ’s divine love to bring the healing we ardently desire.
• Healing the Whole Person is the basis for Dr. Bob Schucht’s best-selling book “Be Healed” and takes place only four times each year in parish settings across the US. 
• This event is offered both in-person or virtually with livestream video. $165 in-person or $119 iivestreamed.
• For more information, and to register, please click HERE

Adoration Chapel Dedication 2/11

• Please save the date of Sunday 2/11th because Bishop Hicks will be dedicating the new Eucharistic Adoration Chapel at 1pm, which will be immediately followed by a cake and coffee reception hosted by Fr. Michael and Fr. Frank; how exciting!

Living With Grief – “Caring For Your Heart While Grieving” 2/13

• 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.
• Come to our session “Caring For Your Heart While Grieving” on Tuesday 2/13th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.

The Rescue Project Begins 2/15

• “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
  𝟭𝟬 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗰𝘂𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗜𝘀 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂
  1. Perhaps you would like to resonate with some of the feedback mentioned above.
  2. If you are experiencing OR think of the Christian faith as a mere set of rules and disciplines.
  3. If going to Mass is boring or attending a Church service is more a habit (a check the box) than something you feel a need to participate in.
  4. If Jesus is only a figure in ancient history for you.
  5. If you have been walking with Jesus for years and love Him.
  6. If you want to experience the gospel surrounded by good food, conversation, and prayer.
  7. If you want to experience beauty, authentic humanity, and accompaniment.
  8. If you want to go into a deeper dive into your relationship with Jesus this Lent.
  9. If you are at juncture in life and are uncertain of what to do next.
  10. If you don’t know Jesus, want to know Him and recognize being known by Him.
  𝗪𝗲’𝗿𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 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!
• Join the Babette meal and set-up teams! Reach out to zara@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org to get involved. Your help is valued, and it’s a wonderful way to serve, connect, and discover delicious recipes during the Lenten season.

Register for the Rescue Project

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

• Register now for CRHP, 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 in the meantime, 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 next 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 soon

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!

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.

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 the parish office at 630-851-3444 and arrangements will be made. 
• 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.

Is God Calling You to the Priesthood?

• Marriage is good and priesthood is good so how do you choose between two goods?  Connect with Fr Michael at frmichael@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org and speak with him.

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column 

• Bishop Hicks’ monthly column for January is titled “Benefits of a Paper Calendar in the Digital Age” 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.
• ther” Read his insightful column HERE.

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 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!

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.

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December 31, 2023 | Parish Update

Imperfect Holy Families. Encounter Jesus @ OLM thru Bible Studies, CRHP, Grow Groups. January Gatherings (such as ALICE Training).

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

Because my dad’s name is Joseph and my mom’s name is Maria, they would always joke that we were the “holy family.” This joke developed over time. Because Jesus is God and Mary is without sin, if there were any problems, she would joke that it was St. Joseph’s fault. In the same way, since my dad is a permanent deacon and I am a priest, if there were any problems, it was her fault. Of course, she was joking, but as we see in the Gospel, the suffering that affects the Holy Family is not all caused by St. Joseph. 

Very often, we are tempted to see the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph as distant from us. If they are so holy, how can they possibly relate to the problems that take place in our family? But this attitude is the exact opposite of the purpose of the Holy Family. 

The Word became flesh and dwelt in a human family, not in order to distance Himself, but to draw closer to us. During the thirty years of His hidden life, Jesus chose to live as part of a family in order to show us how important the family is, and in order to make it holy. 

But the fact that the life of this family was holy doesn’t mean that they got a free pass from everyday human life or even from suffering. At what should have been a joyful celebration of the birth of her son, Mary hears these words that no mother wants to hear, first, that her son will be a sign of contradiction, and second, that a sword will pierce her soul. 

So why does the Holy Family still experience suffering? They do it for us. In all our sufferings, we can turn to Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, knowing that they know what it’s like. They are the Holy Family not in spite of their family life, but because of it.

At this time of year, we often experience both the joys and the sufferings of family life. And maybe we feel that because our families aren’t perfect, because there are family members who have strayed from the faith, family members who like to fight, family members who won’t speak to us, that this disqualifies us from being a holy family. But far from being obstacles to this, they can be opportunities for us to become holy families. 

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph experienced the sufferings of family life, so we can turn to them for help and companionship. They did this for the sanctification of the family and the world, so when we unite our sufferings to Christ’s, it can make us—and the world—holy. We shouldn’t worry about being the “St. Joseph” of the family, but should instead strive to be like him in always being attentive to God’s plan for his family even though he isn’t perfect. 

Father Frank

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

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Piercing Hearts with Christmas Joy by Fr Michael

• As we embark on the final week of the Christmas season, culminating in the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord on 1/9th, here is Fr. Michael’s Christmas homily. Let his words accompany you during these remaining festive days as you reflect on the profound gift of the Savior. Indeed “a child is born to us, a son is given to us; upon his shoulder dominion rest”
  𝗣𝗶𝗲𝗿𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗝𝗼𝘆
  The beautiful gift of Christmas is a pierced heart filled with Christmas joy. Fr. Michael candidly shares personal anecdotes, delivering a compelling call to self-reflection that urges us to open our hearts to the humility of Christ. From self-centeredness to self-sacrifice, discover the true beauty of Christmas as a season of profound personal and familial healing because the deepest cry of the human heart is the universal need for Jesus Christ to pierce through our barriers so as to bring about profound transformation.

Mass for the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God 1/1

• We close the Christmas Octave (the eight days following the birth of Christ) with a day honoring and celebrating Mary as the Mother of God—The Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God! Typically this is a Holy Day of Obligation, but because it falls on a Monday this year, it is not a day of obligation. Here are the following Mass times on Monday, January 1st: 9am and 6:30pm (Spanish Mass).

Registration Opens on 1/1
CRHP Men’s Retreat 2/24 – 2/25 & Women’s Retreat 3/2 – 3/3

• CRHP is an incredible experience that will recharge your faith life, help you develop lasting friendships, and fill you with newfound energy and purpose.
• Registration starts January 1st!
• Should you have any questions in the meantime, 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.

Consuming Fire Young Adult Group Continues 1/2

• 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 or sign up at the link HERE
• Join Consuming Fire this week for their White Elephant Cookies & Ugly Sweater Party! Check out their calendar at the end of the email.
• Looking ahead, on Tuesday, 1/9th.
  • Come to Consuming Fire for an engaging evening on Tuesday, 1/9th, as CFYA presents an exciting talk on “Catholic Stewardship & Finance” by the dynamic Ernesto Pacheco. Get ready to unlock the secrets to financial success and discover how you, as a young adult, can kickstart your journey to a brighter future.This isn’t just your average finance talk – Ernesto will share practical tips tailored to the unique challenges and opportunities that young adults face today. Learn how to embrace Catholic stewardship principles and set yourself on a path to financial well-being.But that’s not all! Brace yourself for some game-changing insights on how to kickstart your savings journey. Whether you’re saving for that dream vacation, a down payment on a home, or just building a safety net for the future, this talk is your roadmap to financial freedom.Don’t miss out on an evening that promises not only valuable advice but also an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Let’s empower ourselves and build a community of young adults ready to take charge of their financial destinies. See you there!

Vine & Branches Continues 1/3

• 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 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

First Friday and Saturday Devotions 1/5 & 1/6

• 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝘂𝘀 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀! This Friday and Saturday, 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 7 am – 4 pm 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 at 1:30pm to 2:30pm

Fit Shepherds 1/6

• To all men, as we embrace the New Year and thoughts turn to fitness resolutions, consider joining Fit Shepherds—a unique blend of physical and spiritual growth. Join Fit Shepherds 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.
• 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

Knights of Columbus BloodDrive 1/6

• Donate blood Saturday 1/6th 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.

Charismatic Healing Mass 1/6

• On Saturday, 1/6 at 6pm is the Charismatic Healing Mass. A healing Mass is a normal Mass, but it has a special focus on God’s healing power; this will be reflected in the songs, prayers, and scripture readings. If you’re in need of God’s healing grace, come to the Charismatic Healing Mass.

Jail Ministry Volunteers

• There is an overlooked mission field in our own backyard, one full of people desperate for help, healing, and wholeness. It’s a place much of our society tends to dismiss, filled with people who believe they have been cast aside, forgotten.Dedicated volunteers are needed to tangibly show the love of Jesus to men and women that society had tossed away and labeled as unworthy, broken, dangerous, or beyond help. Through Jail Ministry, prisoners are reminded that God does not label them—He loves them. Please pray about heeding the call in Hebrews 13:3 (or Matthew 25:34-46) and connect with Sharon Smagala for further details on  tweeter4811@gmail.com
  Hebrews 13:3 Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them; and those who are ill-treated, since you also are in the body.

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.

Weekly Adoration

• COME AND ADORE OUR LORD! Eucharistic Adoration is held three times a week at OLM! So come and encounter Jesus anytime this week at 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!

We’re almost there, we have the following time slots that do not have anyone signed up to spend time with Jesus; we’re praying you would be the one to sign up for any of the following time spots
Tuesday 8:30am, 4pm
Wednesday 5pm
Thursday 8:30am
Friday 10am, 4pm
Our hope is that two individuals sign up for each of the hourly timeslots Monday through Friday from 8:30am through 5pm; please help us achieve this goal.  It truly is the best time that you could gift yourself. Click here to sign up.

Pick Up an Epiphany Chalk & House Blessing Prayer Card 1/6 & 1/7

• We celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord! Along with it marking the *official* end of the Christmas Season, it also has the unique tradition of “chalking the doors”
• Blessed Epiphany chalk will be available in baskets after every Mass for you to take home and mark the doors of your own house along with the Blessing Prayer Cards!  Don’t forget to bring them home.
• What is the Epiphany House Blessing some of us may wonder?
  It is a tradition performed each year on the Solemnity of the Epiphany, where family and friends gather to ask for God’s blessing on their homes and those who live in or visit the home, while marking “20+C+M+B+24” on the front door of the house with blessed chalk. This is a time for prayer and an invitation for Jesus to be a daily guest in the home, our comings and goings, our conversations, our work and play, our joys and sorrows. Our home is where we find comfort and are most vulnerable. 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗲, 𝗟𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗝𝗲𝘀𝘂𝘀. 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘄𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲! 

The Holy Mountain Singers at OLM 1/6 & 1/7

• What a blessing! The Newman Singers will be at all the Masses during the weekend of 1/6 through 1/7, with a concert on Sunday afternoon.
• The Newman Singers, a liturgical and concert group from the Newman Catholic Student Center in Iowa City, Iowa, have toured the country for the past fifteen years, building a reputation for leadership in contemporary liturgical and inspirational music. They have appeared at churches, schools, and conventions, presenting concerts, giving workshops on liturgical music, youth ministry and youth choirs, and leading congregations in liturgy. Their ten recorded collections of liturgical music, written by their founder and director, Joe Mattingly, are used in parishes, schools, and institutions throughout the country. Their mission is to spread the gospel with spirit and music.

Family Faith Formation Epiphany Enactment 1/7

• Calling ALL K-5th Grade Students: Hold fast to the meaning of the Christmas season and come to enact this beautiful story of the three kings visiting the King of Kings, JESUS!
• WHEN? Epiphany Sunday, January 7th following the 10am Mass. The rehearsal will be in the church on Saturday, January 6th from 10:30-11:30am
• To sign up, please email maryjot@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org by Monday, January 1st!
• Parish Family- join us children as we pray and sign our joyous faith story!

Come and Bowl for a Good Cause at “Rolling in the New Year” 1/7

• Ticket proceeds benefit “Friends of Inharrime” so come on out and bowl for a really good cause!
• What’s Going on Jan 7th? Gather with your friends, family, or co-workers and roll in the New Year by bowling at Parkside Lanes while enjoying a large pizza and a pitcher of a beverage all for an excellent cause.
• Bowl for a good cause!  The ticket proceeds will go towards the charitable organization “Friends of Inharrime.” They work to improve the lives of children and families in Mozambique through projects in education, nutrition, and health such as paying children’s school fees, daily lunch, and medical costs and, with a local hospital, they provide nutrition and medical support for malnourished infants.
• When. Sunday, January 7th
  Arrival Time. 1:15pm starts 1:30pm
  Cost (includes bowling, shoes, large pizza and a pitcher of beverage).
       $25 from 12/3 thru 12/17
       $35 from 12/18 thru 12/31
       $45 from 1/1/ thru 1/6
       $50 at the door
• Questions? Please connect with Mary Kubanda rysavyme@gmail.com from Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group who is hosting this awesome gathering.

Register Now and Help the children from Mozambique

Living With Grief – “New Year, New Hope While Grieving” 1/9

• 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.
• Come to our session “New Year, New Hope While Grieving” on Tuesday 1/9th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.

FOCUS Priest Fr. Tim Anastos Speaks at Weekend Masses 1/13 & 1/14

• The Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) wins the hearts of college students, builds them up in faith, and sends them out into the world. Fr. Tim is excited to share the hope of the New Evangelization with you!

Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast 1/14

• The next Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast is on Sunday, 1/14th from 8am to 12pm, benefiting the Teen Mission Trip this summer. Save the date and come out and eat pancakes for a good cause.

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 1/16

• For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers… Come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 1/16th 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.

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 1/17

• The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 1/17 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!

Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest 1/18

• All boys and girls aged 9 to 14, as of January 1, 2024, are invited to participate in the Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus #12005 Free Throw Championship. This local event will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2024, 7:00pm in the Our Lady of Mercy Parish Life Center. Registration begins at 6:45pm 
• Participants are required to furnish proof of age and written parental consent on the registration form available at the event. For additional information call (630) 957-7559

ALICE Training for the Parish 1/19

• With Father Michael’s direction, we will hold an ALICE Training (Active Shooter Response Training) on Friday, January 19th from 6:30pm to 8pm inside the church.
       Why ALICE Training? Violent critical incidents can occur anywhere – even in places of worship which are seen as a sanctuary or safe haven. The reality of today is that places of worship are just as vulnerable to active shooter events as schools and businesses.
       Father Michael is encouraging all of us to participate in this training so that we are equipped and can answer the question “How would we react if we came under attack from a violent intruder inside the church?”
       People of all ages and abilities come to our liturgical gatherings. If violence occurs while at Mass, we must know what to do. ALICE Training has been adopted by thousands of institutions (school districts, workplaces, houses of worship) for this exact reason.  The training will help us feel empowered to make the best decision should such an occurrence take place rather than hopelessly endure a difficult and traumatic situation.
  • Saves Lives. ALICE preparedness training will help individuals in your care respond with confidence, increasing the survivability of an act of violence.
  • Build Confidence. ALICE strategies are supported by peer-reviewed research to reduce anxiety and build confidence in individuals who have gone through the ALICE program.
  • Mitigate Risk. The ALICE program helps every organization meet and exceed active shooter response requirements and minimum requirements designated by their industry oversight rules.
• Father Michael is hoping to see you and any of the liturgical ministers on Friday, January 19th at 6:30pm. Please RSVP so we have enough materials for the training.

Literacy Tutor Volunteers Needed, Training on 1/20

• The Dominican Literacy Center in Aurora, celebrating its 30th year, has just received The Best Practices Award from the National Library of Congress. The Center will be training new tutor volunteers for its literacy program in January.
  Female volunteers (with high school diploma) are trained to help women students learn to read, write, and speak English. Tutoring sessions are 90 minutes, once a week, from Sept. to May, at 260 Vermont St., Aurora (behind St. Therese Church). Tutors do not need to speak Spanish or have teaching experience, but all volunteers must attend 7 hours of training in addition to viewing several training videos online.
• The next training date is Saturday, January 20, from 9AM to 3:30PM. Tutors will begin with their new student the following week. To volunteer, email Alison Brzezinski at Alison@dominicanliteracycenter.org. For more information, visit dominicanliteracycenter.org or call 630- 898-4636. The Center is not handicap accessible

Bible Studies Starts on Tuesdays and Wednesdays 1/24 & 1/30

• How exciting! There are two Bible Study opportunities coming up. 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 
• The Gospel of John. Held on Tuesdays at 7pm starting on 1/30th for about 8 sessions. This Bible Study is a great fit for those that have made Bible Study part of their relationship with Jesus.  See the trailer below.  Please register here for this study.
  • We will use the Ascension Press Follow Me: Meeting Jesus in the Gospel of John study guide and video. Please purchase the study guide online at this link.
  • We will also read from The Gospel of John – Catholic Commentary on Sacred Scripture by Francis Martin and William M Wright IV; this commentary is a favorite reference by priests (Fr Michael, Fr Frank, Fr James). While this book is additional reading and is not mandatory, here is the link in case you would like to purchase it.

• Ascension Press The Timeline Bible Study. Held on Wednesdays at 7pm starting on 1/24th for 22 sessions (with a summer break). This Bible Study is a great fit for those new to the Bible.  See the trailer below.  Please register here for this study.
  The Bible Timeline® Study Program takes you n a guided journey through salvation history. Presenter Jeff Cavins shows you how fourteen of the Bible’s narrative books tell the biblical story from beginning to end and gives you the keys to understanding the amazing story woven through Scripture. Using a unique color-coded chart, you will learn the major people, places, and events of the Bible and discover how they all come together to reveal the remarkable story of our Faith. Please purchase the study guide online at this link.

Healing the Whole Person Weekend Retreat at St. Isaac Jogues 2/8-2/10

• Join us on this journey to wholeness as we enter into the heart, face the pains and wounds within, and allow Christ’s divine love to bring the healing we ardently desire.
• Healing the Whole Person is the basis for Dr. Bob Schucht’s best-selling book “Be Healed” and takes place only four times each year in parish settings across the US. 
• This event is offered both in-person or virtually with livestream video. $165 in-person or $119 Livestreamed.
• For more information, and to register, please click HERE

Adoration Chapel Dedication 2/11

• Please save the date of Sunday 2/11th because Bishop Hicks will be dedicating the new Adoration Chapel at 1pm on that day; how exciting!

Living With Grief – “Caring For Your Heart While Grieving” 2/13

• 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.
• Come to our session “Caring For Your Heart While Grieving” on Tuesday 2/13th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.

The Rescue Project Begins 2/15

• The Rescue Project begins on Thursday evenings during Lent; It is such a powerful opportunity for our hearts to soften and open to the Lord, because that’s where the changes really happen. It would be great to journey with each other, together as a parish. We hope to see you there. 
• For further details and registration, proceed here.

DisABILITIES Mass at Our Lady of Mercy 3/10

• Save the date for a Diocesan DisABILITIES Mass on Sunday 3/10 at 2pm followed by fellowship. More details to follow.

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 the parish office at 630-851-3444 and arrangements will be made. 
• 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.

Is God Calling You to the Priesthood?

• Marriage is good and priesthood is good so how do you choose between two goods?  Connect with Fr Michael at frmichael@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org and speak with him.

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column 

• Bishop Hicks’ monthly column for December is titled “Eucharistic Revival and Synodality, Together” 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 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, find out all the details, and see the year-long schedule HERE.

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 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!

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.

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December 17, 2023 | Parish Update

The Challenge. Confession times Mon thru Sat. Fireside beers & holiday cheers.  4th Sunday of advent & Christmas mass times.

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

Hopefully we all know that we are called to be Christ to others. We see this subject come up in the letters of St. Paul: “Imitate me as I imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1), as well as in the popular prayer attributed to St. Theresa of Avila which was taken up by St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta: 

“Christ has no body but yours, 
No hands, no feet on earth but yours…” 

This, of course, is quite challenging to live out as a Christian. A similar challenge came to me while I was praying with our First Reading from Isaiah, the same reading Jesus will proclaim before starting his ministry in Luke’s Gospel today: 

“The spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,  because the LORD has anointed me;  he has sent me to bring glad tidings to the poor, to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives and release to the prisoners…” (Isaiah 61:1) 

 If these words, which are proclaimed by Christ, are to be fulfilled by us I have a few questions to ask first: How am I to heal the brokenhearted? How am I to proclaim liberty to the captives & release to the prisoners? 

As a priest, a person ordained to be In Persona Christi Capitas (“in the person of Christ the head”), you can imagine the various encounters I have regularly in my priestly ministry. You can imagine the broken hearts I encounter in the Church, in hospitals, the jail, and in funeral homes. How do I bring healing?  

But of course, this challenge isn’t just for me! This includes all of us; we are all called to bring healing and hope to our loved ones. You may find yourself asking the same question: how? The Gospels give us insight. St. John the Baptist was a man, a forerunner to Christ, but also an example for you and me.  When asked if he was the Messiah, the one to bring healing, his response was to point everyone to Jesus Christ. We are called to do the same. 

As a priest, it’s not me who comforts or consoles, it is the Lord who does it through me. Advent is not only a time of preparation to receive the Lord ourselves, but to point others to the Lord and his coming.  Let us ask the Lord for the strength to unite ourselves to him who can “bring glad tidings to the poor, heal the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to the captives and release to the prisoners” 

Father Michael

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

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Advent Confession Times 12/18 through 12/23

• The hope for the Advent Season is to offer Confessions as much as the priests can which is why…There will be SIX straight days of Confessions from 12/18 through 12/23!
  • Monday through Friday from 7pm to 8:30pm
  • Saturday 9am to 10am and 1:30pm to 2:30pm
• Using the examination of conscience on the following link, ask the Holy Spirit to help you search your heart. Where do you sense God is calling you to repent? Remember, Jesus will never condemn you; He is always ready to forgive you.
• 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗶𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗨𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀
  In this journey of faith, consider the Sacrament of Reconciliation as a profound encounter with the divine healer. Much like seeking medical attention, we don’t maintain a lifelong relationship with a physician; rather, we aim to be healed and move forward. However, Jesus, our divine physician, who through the mystery of the incarnation was also both fully human and fully divine and so understands our humanity, making it easier for us to approach Him with all our imperfections.
  Jesus invites us into a relationship where we don’t need to be perfect in order to approach Him, rather, He desires to love us amid our imperfections and provide for us right there. This perspective should empower us to embrace the Sacrament of Reconciliation because Confession is not a one-time fix, but a continuous journey in our relationship with God.
  We don’t go to Confession so that we will never go to Confession again; rather, Confession is part of our relationship with God; it’s a place where we humbly bring our weaknesses, seeking healing for the imperfect places in our hearts. Jesus, compassionate and tender with our vulnerabilities, awaits us at the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Come, be embraced, and experience His love this week and give the gift of a reconciled heart to Jesus, your loved ones, and friends.

Las Posadas & Pastorela 12/18 & 12/19

• Las Posadas celebrations commemorate Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, where they sought shelter for the birth of Jesus. The Spanish word “posada” means “inn.”
• It is typically a nine-day novena of prayer that involves the recitation of the rosary and traditional songs. It concludes with a Mexican folk play, potluck celebration and a piñata filled with treats.
• Join Our Lady of Mercy at any of these events as we prepare our hearts for Christ’s birth: Posadas in the Church @ 7pm: 12/15, 12/17, & 12/18 and Pastorela in the PLC @ 7pm on 12/19.

Fireside Beers and Holiday Cheers 12/19

• Join us for a Jolly Good Time at “Fireside Beers and Holiday Cheers”!
• Date: Tuesday, December 19th Time: 6:30PM – 8:30PM Venue: Paulie’s Pub ((Right down the road from OLM) 
• The CRHP Men’s Ministry invites you to a Christmas Men’s Pub Night filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the festive spirit. Grab your friends and head over to Paulie’s Pub for an unforgettable evening of Fireside Beers and Holiday Cheers! Don’t be a Grinch! Spread the word and let’s make this Christmas Men’s Pub Night one for the books. See you there, gents!
• For questions, contact Alex Grove at 331-330-0257.Gentlemen, ’tis the season to be merry! 

Consuming Fire Young Adult Group Continues 12/19

• 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 or sign up at the link HERE
• Join Consuming Fire this week at Feed My Starving Children!

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 12/19

• For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers… Come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 12/19th 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.

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 12/20

• The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 12/20 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. 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!

Vine & Branches Continues 12/20

• 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

Salt and Light Grow Group Continues 12/20 & 12/21

• Join Salt and Light Grow Group for 𝗙𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗚𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘆’𝘀 “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗼𝗹𝗱” for fast-paced and lively sessions through a video talk followed by group discussion. From the epic story of Poland’s national suffering to the events of Fatima, the revelations of St. Faustina, the heroic efforts of St. Maximilian Kolbe, and the life of St. John Paul II, the panorama of Divine mercy is fully revealed as a transformative reality. A free study guide will be given to all participants.
• Join us either 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.

Blessing of Baby Jesus 12/23

• On Saturday, 12/23rd at 12:30pm, families are invited to bring Baby Jesus from their family creche to the Church for a special blessing!
• The Blessing of the Baby Jesus was first instituted by St. John Paul II. On the Third Sunday of Advent, the children of Rome are encouraged to bring the baby Jesus from each of their Nativity sets to St. Peter’s Square. Following the Sunday Angelus address, the Pope blesses the figurines. This year marks the 800th Anniversary of when St. Francis created the First Nativity Creche in the year 1223!

4th Sunday of Advent Mass Times 12/23 & 12/24

• As Catholics, we are obliged to attend Mass every Sunday, including the 4th Sunday of Advent. And we are obliged to go to Mass for the feast of Christmas. Those two obligations are distinct and have to be met separately. 
• Here is the 4th Sunday of Advent Mass Times
  Saturday 12/23 at 4pm and Sunday 12/24 at 8am, and 10am.

Christmas Concert at 11:15pm on 12/24

• This year’s Christmas Concert is called “The Glory of Christmas” by Lloyd Larson. The concert will start at 11:15pm with a mini chamber ensemble, string quartet, percussions, trumpet, and the Our Lady of Mercy choir led by our wonderful music director Frank Sauter. Through a blend of familiar carols and original songs, experience the beauty of the incarnation story as if you’re experiencing it for the first time.

Christmas Mass Times 12/24 & 12/25

• We’re excited to welcome you to our Christmas services! Mass times on Christmas Eve, Sunday, 12/24, will be at 3pm, 5pm and 7pm. Christmas Day Masses will be on Monday, 12/25 at 12am (Midnight), 8am, 10am and 12pm. There will NOT be a Spanish Mass at 6:30pm.
• Check out the Christmas webpage for all the details, FAQs (such as with the 4th Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve falling on the same day, what are the expectations, and options, to fulfill the two distinct obligations?), and shareable invitational graphics. 
  A church building can be an intimidating place to enter for the first time, but you can be the vessel in bringing the Good News to people by a simple invitation. God is always on the move, and we get to be a part of what He’s doing. You can help share the Good News of Jesus by inviting others to our Christmas Masses. Sometimes, a simple invitation can be helpful to someone you may not even know is struggling. 
• Experience the joy, and please be aware that incense will be used at the 3pm Mass in the Church, Midnight, and 10am on Christmas day. We look forward to celebrating the birth of Jesus with you!

Regarding the Return of the Chalice During the Weekend Masses

• As part of the Eucharistic Revival, Fr. Michael shared that starting now, you can receive the Precious Blood of Christ from the Chalice during weekend Masses.
• Fr. Michael presented the following catechesis to encourage us to grasp the crucial insights and teachings regarding receiving the Precious Blood of Christ from the chalice.
  • Fractioning Rite. In the Eucharistic Prayers, when we say “Lamb of God,” the priest performs the “fractioning rite.” This involves taking the host, the body of Christ, breaking it in half, and placing a portion into the chalice. This reunites the body and blood of Christ, so if you receive one, you receive both. When you approach for communion and receive the body of Christ, you are actually receiving the entirety of Christ—His body, His blood, His soul, and divinity.If you choose to receive only from the chalice, you still receive the fullness of Christ—the body and blood of Christ. Fr. Michael emphasizes this point because it’s not obligatory to receive from both. The Church, however, encourages the opportunity to receive both as a way to more deeply participate in the gift of the Sacrament, echoing the instructions given to the apostles during the Last Supper to “take, eat, and drink.”
  • There will be two chalices on each side of the center aisle.
  • Receive standing. To ensure the protection of the Precious Blood from spillage, we encourage drinking from the cup while standing, as it is not natural to do so while kneeling.
  • No intinction. Please don’t dip the Body of Christ into the chalice to reduce the risk of Precious Blood dripping onto your hand, clothes, or the floor.
    As a reminder; please remember to consume the Body of Christ promptly in front of the Eucharistic Minister upon receiving it, and refrain from walking away with the consecrated host. 
  • The children. Please practice with the children at home first so they understand.

Christmas Flower Memorials

• This Christmas, we will decorate the church with poinsettias around the altar. Flowers can also be memorialized by using one of the flower envelopes found in the narthex. The suggested donation is $20.

Jail Ministry Volunteers

• There is an overlooked mission field in our own backyard, one full of people desperate for help, healing, and wholeness. It’s a place much of our society tends to dismiss, filled with people who believe they have been cast aside, forgotten.Dedicated volunteers are needed to tangibly show the love of Jesus to men and women that society had tossed away and labeled as unworthy, broken, dangerous, or beyond help. Through Jail Ministry, prisoners are reminded that God does not label them—He loves them. Please pray about heeding the call in Hebrews 13:3 (or Matthew 25:34-46) and connect with Sharon Smagala for further details on  tweeter4811@gmail.com
  Hebrews 13:3 Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them; and those who are ill-treated, since you also are in the body.

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.

Weekly Adoration

• COME AND ADORE OUR LORD! Eucharistic Adoration is held three times a week at OLM! So come and encounter Jesus anytime this week at 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!

We’re almost there, we have the following time slots that do not have anyone signed up to spend time with Jesus; we’re praying you would be the one to sign up for any of the following time spots
Tuesday 8:30am, 4pm
Wednesday 5pm
Thursday 8:30am
Friday 10am, 4pm
Our hope is that two individuals sign up for each of the hourly timeslots Monday through Friday from 8:30am through 5pm; please help us achieve this goal.  It truly is the best time that you could gift yourself. Click here to sign up.

Christmas Collection & End of Year Giving 12/25 and 12/31

• As we prepare for the Solemnity of Christmas, the Scripture readings inspire all faith-filled stewards to stop and ponder in great awe God’s ultimate gift: the gift of His only begotten Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. Out of heartfelt gratitude, what of our prayer, service, and generosity can we present to Him?
  It is a great blessing that all of the funds donated as part of the Christmas Collection stay with Our Lady of Mercy and will help us meet ourvSunday Collection.  If you wish to donate to the Christmas Collection, please use one of the following three methods:
  1. Give online at www.olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org/give look for the online giving portal and be sure to select “Christmas” (use the drop-down arrow)
  2. Give during Mass using your Christmas envelope.
  3. Give during Mass using a blank envelope labeled “Christmas Collection,” also include “Christmas Collection” on the memo line of your check
  PLEASE NOTE: only donations received (or postmarked) on or before December 31 will appear on your 2023 giving statement that will be sent out by the end of January 2024.

Men Seeking Holiness Day Retreat 12/28

• Come to a high-impact, low-pressure experience “Men Seeking Holiness Day Retreat” on Thursday 12/28th from 9am to 5pm at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish located at 36 N. Ellsworth, Naperville. The cost is $10 which includes lunch. Email vocations@dioceseofjoliet.org for any questions.
• Experience a special day of prayer, discussions, discernment, the life of holiness, Mass, adoration, and Confession. Please share this invitation with the men in your life.

Prayer Ministry 12/30 & 12/31

• Receive Prayer Ministry after all the Mass times the weekend of 12/30 and 12/31! 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 family. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement. Trained prayer ministers will be available in the back of Church.

Angel Giving Program Donations Accepted through 12/31

• This year’s program benefits those individuals assisted by SVDP, Hesed House, Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry and Waterleaf Women’s Center.
• Monetary donations can be made under the Angel Giving Fund via our online giving portal or via check made payable to Our Lady of Mercy with “Angel Giving” in the memo for tax purposes. Accepted thru 12/31.
• Please connect with Lydia at lydias@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org for any questions.

Registration Opens 1/1
CRHP Men’s Retreat 2/24 – 2/25 & Women’s Retreat 3/2 – 3/3/2024

• CRHP is an incredible experience that will recharge your faith life, help you develop lasting friendships, and fill you with newfound energy and purpose.
• Registration starts January 1st!
• Should you have any questions in the meantime, 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.

Mass for the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God 1/1/2024

• We close the Christmas Octave (the eight days following the birth of Christ) with a day honoring and celebrating Mary as the Mother of God—The Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God! We hope to see you at any of the following Mass times on Monday, January 1 at 9am and 7pm!

First Friday and Saturday Devotions 1/5 & 1/6/2024

• 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝘂𝘀 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀! This Friday and Saturday, 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 7 am – 4 pm 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 at 1:30pm to 2:30pm

Knights of Columbus Blood Drive 1/6/2024

• Donate blood Saturday 1/6th 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.

Charismatic Healing Mass 1/6/2024

• On Saturday, 1/6 at 6pm is the Charismatic Healing Mass. A healing Mass is a normal Mass, but it has a special focus on God’s healing power; this will be reflected in the songs, prayers, and scripture readings. If you’re in need of God’s healing grace, come to the Charismatic Healing Mass. 

The Newman Singers at OLM 1/6 & 1/7/2024

• Save the dates; the Newman Singers will be at all the Masses during the weekend of 1/6 through 1/7, with a concert on Sunday afternoon.
• The Newman Singers, a liturgical and concert group from the Newman Catholic Student Center in Iowa City, Iowa, have toured the country for the past fifteen years, building a reputation for leadership in contemporary liturgical and inspirational music. They have appeared at churches, schools, and conventions, presenting concerts, giving workshops on liturgical music, youth ministry and youth choirs, and leading congregations in liturgy. Their ten recorded collections of liturgical music, written by their founder and director, Joe Mattingly, are used in parishes, schools, and institutions throughout the country. Their mission is to spread the gospel with spirit and music.

Family Faith Formation Epiphany Enactment 1/7/2024

• Calling ALL K-5th Grade Students: Hold fast to the meaning of the Christmas season and come to enact this beautiful story of the three kings visiting the King of Kings, JESUS!
• WHEN? Epiphany Sunday, January 7th following the 10am Mass. The rehearsal will be in the church on Saturday, January 6th from 10:30-11:30am
• To sign up, please email maryjot@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org by Monday, January 1st!
• Parish Family- join us children as we pray and sign our joyous faith story!

Come and Bowl for a Good Cause at “Rolling in the New Year” 1/7/2024

• Ticket proceeds benefit “Friends of Inharrime” so come on out and bowl for a really good cause!
• What’s Going on Jan 7th? Gather with your friends, family, or co-workers and roll in the New Year by bowling at Parkside Lanes while enjoying a large pizza and a pitcher of a beverage all for an excellent cause.
• Bowl for a good cause!  The ticket proceeds will go towards the charitable organization “Friends of Inharrime.” They work to improve the lives of children and families in Mozambique through projects in education, nutrition, and health such as paying children’s school fees, daily lunch, and medical costs and, with a local hospital, they provide nutrition and medical support for malnourished infants.
• When. Sunday, January 7th
  Arrival Time. 1:15pm starts 1:30pm
  Cost (includes bowling, shoes, large pizza and a pitcher of beverage).
       $25 from 12/3 thru 12/17
       $35 from 12/18 thru 12/31
       $45 from 1/1/ thru 1/6
       $50 at the door
• Questions? Please connect with Mary Kubanda rysavyme@gmail.com from Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group who is hosting this awesome gathering.

Register Now and Help the children from Mozambique

Living With Grief – “New Year, New Hope While Grieving” 1/9/2024

• 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.
• Come to our session “New Year, New Hope While Grieving” on Tuesday 1/9th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.

FOCUS Priest Fr. Tim Anastos Speaks at Weekend Masses 1/13 & 1/14/2024

• The Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) wins the hearts of college students, builds them up in faith, and sends them out into the world. Fr. Tim is excited to share the hope of the New Evangelization with you!

Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast 1/14/2024

• The next Knights of Columbus Pancake Breakfast is on Sunday 1/14th from 8am to 12pm, save the date and come out and eat pancakes for a good cause.

Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest 1/18/2024

• All boys and girls aged 9 to 14, as of January 1, 2024, are invited to participate in the Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus #12005 Free Throw Championship. This local event will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2024, 7:00pm in the Our Lady of Mercy Parish Life Center. Registration begins at 6:45pm 
• Participants are required to furnish proof of age and written parental consent on the registration form available at the event. For additional information call (630) 957-7559

ALICE Training for the Parish 1/19/2024

• With Father Michael’s direction, we will hold an ALICE Training (Active Shooter Response Training) on Friday, January 19th from 6:30pm to 8pm inside the church.
       Why ALICE Training? Violent critical incidents can occur anywhere – even in places of worship which are seen as a sanctuary or safe haven. The reality of today is that places of worship are just as vulnerable to active shooter events as schools and businesses.
       Father Michael is encouraging all of us to participate in this training so that we are equipped and can answer the question “How would we react if we came under attack from a violent intruder inside the church?”
       People of all ages and abilities come to our liturgical gatherings. If violence occurs while at Mass, we must know what to do. ALICE Training has been adopted by thousands of institutions (school districts, workplaces, houses of worship) for this exact reason.  The training will help us feel empowered to make the best decision should such an occurrence take place rather than hopelessly endure a difficult and traumatic situation.
  • Saves Lives. ALICE preparedness training will help individuals in your care respond with confidence, increasing the survivability of an act of violence.
  • Build Confidence. ALICE strategies are supported by peer-reviewed research to reduce anxiety and build confidence in individuals who have gone through the ALICE program.
  • Mitigate Risk. The ALICE program helps every organization meet and exceed active shooter response requirements and minimum requirements designated by their industry oversight rules.
• Father Michael is hoping to see you and any of the liturgical ministers on Friday, January 19th at 6:30pm. Please RSVP so we have enough materials for the training.

Literacy Tutor Volunteers Needed, Training on 1/20/2024

• The Dominican Literacy Center in Aurora, celebrating its 30th year, has just received The Best Practices Award from the National Library of Congress. The Center will be training new tutor volunteers for its literacy program in January.
  Female volunteers (with high school diploma) are trained to help women students learn to read, write, and speak English. Tutoring sessions are 90 minutes, once a week, from Sept. to May, at 260 Vermont St., Aurora (behind St. Therese Church). Tutors do not need to speak Spanish or have teaching experience, but all volunteers must attend 7 hours of training in addition to viewing several training videos online.
• The next training date is Saturday, January 20, from 9AM to 3:30PM. Tutors will begin with their new student the following week. To volunteer, email Alison Brzezinski at Alison@dominicanliteracycenter.org. For more information, visit dominicanliteracycenter.org or call 630- 898-4636. The Center is not handicap accessible

Healing the Whole Person Weekend Retreat at St. Isaac Jogues 2/8-2/10/2024

• Join us on this journey to wholeness as we enter into the heart, face the pains and wounds within, and allow Christ’s divine love to bring the healing we ardently desire.
• Healing the Whole Person is the basis for Dr. Bob Schucht’s best-selling book “Be Healed” and takes place only four times each year in parish settings across the US. 
• This event is offered both in-person or virtually with livestream video. $165 in-person or $119 Livestreamed.
• For more information, and to register, please click HERE

Adoration Chapel Dedication 2/11/2024

• Please save the date of Sunday 2/11th because Bishop Hicks will be dedicating the new Adoration Chapel at 1pm on that day; how exciting!

Living With Grief – “Caring For Your Heart While Grieving” 2/13

• 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.
• Come to our session “Caring For Your Heart While Grieving” on Tuesday 2/13th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.

The Rescue Project Begins 2/15/2024

• The Rescue Project begins on Thursday evenings during Lent; It is such a powerful opportunity for our hearts to soften and open to the Lord, because that’s where the changes really happen. It would be great to journey with each other, together as a parish. We hope to see you there. 
• Registration opens in January.

DisABILITIES Mass at Our Lady of Mercy 3/10/2024

• Save the date for a Diocesan DisABILITIES Mass on Sunday 3/10 at 2pm followed by fellowship. More details to follow.

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.t.

• 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. 
• 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.

Is God Calling You to the Priesthood?

• Marriage is good and priesthood is good so how do you choose between two goods?  Connect with Fr Michael at frmichael@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org and speak with him.

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column 

• Bishop Hicks’ monthly column for December is titled “Eucharistic Revival and Synodality, Together” 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 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, find out all the details, and see the year-long schedule HERE.

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 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!

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.

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December 3, 2023 | Parish Update

The Return of the Chalice. Advent Resources & Schedule Page (Christmas Mass Times). Register Now for Simbang Gabi. And December 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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News from Pastor in Training (P.I.T.)

To be attentive and to stay attentive is very hard. It takes a significant effort to stay focused on the task at hand. And yet, this is what the Lord is asking of us in our 1st Sunday of Advent readings. As much as we like to think we can multi-task, it has been proven that it’s better to focus on one thing at a time than to try to juggle multiple activities at once. How many of us try to juggle prayer with our daily activities, only to come to the conclusion that we are failing to pray as we ought? Currently, I’m thinking of all the things I need to do to get ready for Christmas, from liturgical duties like extra confessions and Masses to buying Christmas presents for my niece and nephews so that I can keep the title of “Coolest Uncle.” Yet, in all these tasks that need to be done, the most important task should be preparing my heart for the Lord and his coming. 

The Advent season begins a new liturgical year for the Church. Similar to the resolutions we make for our calendar New Year, the Church is asking us to make a resolution now. In the Gospel today, the Lord is asking his disciples, which include us, to keep watch for his coming. We need to recommit to being attentive, and to preparing our hearts to receive the Lord. Isn’t that much easier said than done?

The winter season naturally is a perfect time for refocusing. As the sun sets earlier each day, nights come sooner and the temperature begins to drop. Have you ever walked outside on a crisp cold night? I feel that during these late night walks my thoughts become clearer and prayer becomes easier. Maybe it’s the cold waking me up, the silence as nature is hibernating in the darkness, or maybe it’s the awe of looking up at the stars on a clear night. The Advent season seems to help us turn even more towards reflective prayer, just as the Lord has asked it of us.

I’d encourage you to take advantage of this Advent season. Don’t get up caught up so easily in the noise and distractions of preparing for Christmas, or in the busyness of daily life. Instead, take the time to pull away and be attentive to the longings of your heart for our Lord who has come, is coming, and will come again. 

Father Michael

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

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THIS COMING WEEK

Prepare Your Hearts to Receive Jesus with Advent Resources

• If you were out of town this weekend, you can still pick up Advent devotionals in the narthex during the week.
• Check out the Advent Resources & Schedule webpage as well which has
  • Advent Reconciliation Schedule
  • Advent Homilies
  • Advent Resources
  • Advent Practices & Giving Opportunities
  • Spiritual Disciplines to Embrace this Advent
  • Advent Flyer
  • Christmas Holy Mass Schedule
• “𝘼𝙙𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚. 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙖 𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙘𝙝 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙧𝙚, 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙣𝙤𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙜𝙞𝙖, 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 — 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙃𝙞𝙢 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙡 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙀𝙪𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩. 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝘾𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙘𝙝 𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙨 𝙪𝙨: 𝙃𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙚!”— 𝙎𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙩 𝙅𝙤𝙨𝙚𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙖 𝙀𝙨𝙘𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙖

Registration for Simbang Gabi Mass & Celebration is now open 12/4

• Please register soon for the annual Simbang Gabi Filipino tradition of celebrating devotional Mass on Saturday 12/16th at 6pm and come and join the Filipino community in preparing our hearts for the birth of Jesus. Following the Mass is a ticketed reception. Looking forward to seeing you there!
• Register at this link.
• What is Simbang Gabi you may wonder? Simbang Gabi is a tradition of celebrating Christmas novena masses in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Its masses were celebrated at dawn, the time when roosters crow, hence calling the celebration Misa de Gallo (rooster). Filipinos have been faithful in observing the tradition for centuries. Find out more here.
• Here at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, we will celebrate this beautiful tradition on Saturday, Dec. 16, 2023 with a mass at 6pm followed immediately by a reception that will showcase Filipino hospitality with food, talents, games, and fun for the entire family
• For any questions, connect at sgcommittee16@gmail.com or (331)588-5556

Mondays with Monica & Augustine Prayer Group Continues 12/4

• We are blessed to have St. Monica and St. Augustine accompany us as we consider our own family situations with our own loved ones who have fallen away from the Church; see you for prayer at OLM on Mondays at 7:30pm.
•      Anticipation—the upcoming holiday season is filled with it. And with Advent around the corner, we look forward to family gatherings, beautiful celebrations at church, and all the blessings that come during this season. As we wait, our hope in the Lord can increase, and our faith can grow stronger.
       But sometimes, the holiday season can be difficult. Instead of anticipating the good things God has in store for us, we may anticipate family tension or spending Christmas somewhat isolated from our loved ones; the hardest part of loving someone estranged from the Faith is the sense of isolation. No matter how we feel, we can experience God’s goodness and love during Advent. Even our struggles can be an opportunity for God to work in our lives. Jesus wants to calm our fears and fill us with hope—a sure and certain trust in His promises, especially for our loved ones. He wants us to hear His comforting voice. At Mondays with Monica and Augustine (MWMA), come and hear Jesus’ comforting voice, perhaps through the reflection, or while praying for our loved ones by name. Praying together with others in a similar situation removes the sense of isolation.

Consuming Fire Young Adult Group Continues 12/5

• 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 or sign up at the link HERE
• Come to Consuming Fire this week for a discussion on Advent!

The Chosen Season 3 Catholic Bible Study Continues on 12/5

• 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 @ 7pmContact: Joe Wiacek and Joe Glasgow OLMBiblestudies@gmail.com Registration: Please register here 
• 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.

Vine & Branches Continues 12/6

• 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

Salt and Light Grow Group Continues 12/6 & 12/7

• Join Salt and Light Grow Group for 𝗙𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗚𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘆’𝘀 “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗼𝗹𝗱” for fast-paced and lively sessions through a video talk followed by group discussion. From the epic story of Poland’s national suffering to the events of Fatima, the revelations of St. Faustina, the heroic efforts of St. Maximilian Kolbe, and the life of St. John Paul II, the panorama of Divine mercy is fully revealed as a transformative reality. A free study guide will be given to all participants.
• Join us either 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.

Mass for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 12/7 & 12/8

• The Mass times for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, patroness of the United States are:
  Vigil Mass at 7pm on Thursday 12/7th and Mass times of 8am and 7pm on Friday 12/8th.  We pray to see you at any of the Mass times; let us rejoice with the Immaculate Mother of God, for it is through her intercession that God has bestowed every spiritual blessing upon us.  
• God chose Mary, the Immaculate Conception, to be our “model of holiness” by preserving her entirely from original sin, making her all-pure and all-holy. In doing this God also shows us what is possible for us, too, wounded by sin—the healing and restoration of our whole humanity. The intercession and maternal love of the Immaculate One, given to us as our Mother, is the special way God has chosen to bestow upon us the grace of such a healing. As the Mother of our Savior, Mary shares uniquely in His redemptive sacrifice. We turn to her with confidence, for she is “our life, our sweetness, and our hope.” Immaculate Mary, pray for us!

Regarding the Return of the Chalice During the Weekend Masses

• As part of the Eucharistic Revival, Fr. Michael shared that starting now, you can receive the Precious Blood of Christ from the Chalice during weekend Masses.
• Fr. Michael presented the following catechesis to encourage us to grasp the crucial insights and teachings regarding receiving the Precious Blood of Christ from the chalice.
  • Fractioning Rite. In the Eucharistic Prayers, when we say “Lamb of God,” the priest performs the “fractioning rite.” This involves taking the host, the body of Christ, breaking it in half, and placing a portion into the chalice. This reunites the body and blood of Christ, so if you receive one, you receive both. When you approach for communion and receive the body of Christ, you are actually receiving the entirety of Christ—His body, His blood, His soul, and divinity.If you choose to receive only from the chalice, you still receive the fullness of Christ—the body and blood of Christ. Fr. Michael emphasizes this point because it’s not obligatory to receive from both. The Church, however, encourages the opportunity to receive both as a way to more deeply participate in the gift of the Sacrament, echoing the instructions given to the apostles during the Last Supper to “take, eat, and drink.”
  • There will be two chalices on each side of the center aisle.
  • Receive standing. To ensure the protection of the Precious Blood from spillage, we encourage drinking from the cup while standing, as it is not natural to do so while kneeling.
  • No intinction. Please don’t dip the Body of Christ into the chalice to reduce the risk of Precious Blood dripping onto your hand, clothes, or the floor.
    As a reminder; please remember to consume the Body of Christ promptly in front of the Eucharistic Minister upon receiving it, and refrain from walking away with the consecrated host. 
  • The children. Please practice with the children at home first so they understand.

Christmas Flower Memorials

• This Christmas, we will decorate the church with poinsettias around the altar. Flowers can also be memorialized by using one of the flower envelopes found in the narthex. The suggested donation is $20.

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.

Weekly Adoration

• COME AND ADORE OUR LORD! Eucharistic Adoration is held three times a week at OLM! So come and encounter Jesus anytime this week at 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!

We’re almost there, we have the following time slots that do not have anyone signed up to spend time with Jesus; we’re praying you would be the one to sign up for any of the following time spots
Tuesday 8:30am, 4pm
Wednesday 5pm
Thursday 8:30am
Friday 10am, 4pm
Our hope is that two individuals sign up for each of the hourly timeslots Monday through Friday from 8:30am through 5pm; please help us achieve this goal.  It truly is the best time that you could gift yourself. Click here to sign up.

LOOKING AHEAD

Advent Reflection for Liturgical Ministers 12/9

• All liturgical ministers are invited to an Advent Reflection on Saturday, 12/9th from 11am to 12pm in the Church. Join us for time away from the busyness of life to reflect on the season of Advent and the mystery of the Incarnation.  

Return Your Birchwood Ornament by the Weekend of 12/9 & 1/10

• Help us decorate the narthex for Christmas by taking a birchwood disk (one per family)
• Decorate your ornament and return it to the parish by the weekend of December 9 & 10th. A drop-off table will be in the narthex after weekend masses, or you may drop it off at the parish office during the week 
• If you would like to pick it up after the Christmas Season, you are responsible for getting it from the narthex after weekend masses on Jan 13/14
• Placement on the trees will be at the discretion of the Arts & Environment committee.  Questions? Please reach out to our Arts & Environment committee at aandeolm@gmail.com.

Retirement Fund for Religious 12/9 & 12/10

• Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     Our diocese will soon take up the national collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious. Your support for this collection provides financial assistance for retirement needs for 297 U.S. religious communities.      Catholic sisters, brothers and religious order priests have selflessly served for decades without significant financial compensation. However, due to escalating health-care costs, numerous U.S. religious communities face a substantial gap between their elderly members’ needs and the financial resources available for their care. Many religious orders currently experience insufficient retirement savings.     The 2022 appeal demonstrated Catholics’ tremendous generosity by raising $27.6 million. Diocese of Joliet parishioners contributed $286,788.25 to the collection.      The senior religious in our diocese never retire from their vows, and they play a crucial role in conveying the faith from one generation to the next. All remain wholly committed to their vocations by embracing the opportunity to spend more time praying for our Church and world.      Please support the retirement needs of our senior religious. And please join me in praying for God’s continued blessing on our nation’s elderly sisters, brothers, and religious order priests.     As I remain –
          Sincerely yours in Christ,
          Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks
          Bishop of Joliet

Justice & Peace Ministry’s Fair Trade Sale 12/10

• Please stop by our annual Fair Trade Sale on Sunday, 12/10th in the PLC after Masses. 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.

EDGE Alden Nursing Home Service Trip 12/11

• The EDGE is a Catholic middle school youth ministry experience created for early adolescents in grades 6, 7, & 8. The EDGE is designed to meet the educational, spiritual, emotional, and social needs of young adolescents. Kids are always welcomed and encouraged to invite their friends to the EDGE.
• For information on this service opportunity please contact Adolfo & Joana Lopez at adolfol@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org or joanal@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org 

Living With Grief – Finding the Meaning of Christmas While Grieving 12/11 & 12/12

• 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.
• Finding the Meaning of Christmas While Grieving, come to one of the sessions either on Monday 12/11th from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 208 or Tuesday 12/12th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe 12/12

• The Mass for the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be at 6:30pm on Tuesday 12/12 in English, with music in Spanish. Roses for the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be available in the narthex. A reception will follow in the PLC.
• We hope to see you at the Mass which commemorates this wonderful feast day of the Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patron saint of the Americas who appeared to Juan Diego in Mexico City in 1531.

Las Posadas & Pastorela 12/15, 12/17-12/19

• Las Posadas celebrations commemorate Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, where they sought shelter for the birth of Jesus. The Spanish word “posada” means “inn.”
• It is typically a nine day novena of prayer that involves the recitation of the rosary and traditional songs. It concludes with a Mexican folk play, potluck celebration and a piñata filled with treats.
• Join Our Lady of Mercy at any of these events as we prepare our hearts for Christ’s birth: Posadas in the Church @ 7pm: 12/15, 12/17, & 12/18 and Pastorela in the PLC @ 7pm on 12/19

Advent Confession Times 12/18 through 12/23

• The hope for the Advent Season is to offer Confessions as much as the priests can which is why…There will be SIX straight days of Confessions from 12/18 through 12/23!
  • Monday through Friday from 7pm to 8:30pm
  • Saturday 9am to 10am and 1:30pm to 2:30pm
• Using the examination of conscience on the following link, ask the Holy Spirit to help you search your heart. Where do you sense God is calling you to repent? Remember, Jesus will never condemn you; He is always ready to forgive you.

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 12/19

• For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers… Come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 12/19th 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.

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 12/20

• The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 12/20 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. 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!

Blessing of Baby Jesus 12/23

• On Saturday, 12/23rd at 12:30pm, families are invited to bring Baby Jesus from their family creche to the Church for a special blessing!
• The Blessing of the Baby Jesus was first instituted by St. John Paul II. On the Third Sunday of Advent, the children of Rome are encouraged to bring the baby Jesus from each of their Nativity sets to St. Peter’s Square. Following the Sunday Angelus address, the Pope blesses the figurines. This year marks the 800th Anniversary of when St. Francis created the First Nativity Creche in the year 1223!

4th Sunday of Advent Mass Times 12/23 & 12/24

• As Catholics, we are obliged to attend Mass every Sunday, including the 4th Sunday of Advent. And we are obliged to go to Mass for the feast of Christmas. Those two obligations are distinct and have to be met separately. 
• Here is the 4th Sunday of Advent Mass Times
  Saturday 12/23 at 4pm and Sunday 12/24 at 8am, and 10am.

Christmas Concert at 11:15pm on 12/24

• This year’s Christmas Concert is called “The Glory of Christmas” by Lloyd Larson. The concert will start at 11:15pm with a mini chamber ensemble, string quartet, percussions, trumpet, and the Our Lady of Mercy choir led by our wonderful music director Frank Sauter. Through a blend of familiar carols and original songs, experience the beauty of the incarnation story as if you’re experiencing it for the first time.

Christmas Mass Times 12/24 & 12/25

• We’re excited to welcome you to our Christmas services! Mass times on Christmas Eve, Sunday, 12/24, will be at 3pm, 5pm and 7pm. Christmas Day Masses will be on Monday, 12/25 at 12am (Midnight), 8am, 10am and 12pm. There will NOT be a Spanish Mass at 6:30pm.
• Check out the Christmas webpage for all the details, FAQs (such as with the 4th Sunday of Advent and Christmas Eve falling on the same day, what are the expectations, and options, to fulfill the two distinct obligations?), and shareable invitational graphics. 
  A church building can be an intimidating place to enter for the first time, but you can be the vessel in bringing the Good News to people by a simple invitation. God is always on the move, and we get to be a part of what He’s doing. You can help share the Good News of Jesus by inviting others to our Christmas Masses. Sometimes, a simple invitation can be helpful to someone you may not even know is struggling. 

Christmas Collection & End of Year Giving 12/25 and 12/31

• As we prepare for the Solemnity of Christmas, the Scripture readings inspire all faith-filled stewards to stop and ponder in great awe God’s ultimate gift: the gift of His only begotten Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ. Out of heartfelt gratitude, what of our prayer, service, and generosity can we present to Him?
  It is a great blessing that all of the funds donated as part of the Christmas Collection stay with Our Lady of Mercy and will help us meet our Sunday Collection.  If you wish to donate to the Christmas Collection, please use one of the following three methods:
  1. Give online at www.olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org/give look for the online giving portal and be sure to select “Christmas” (use the drop-down arrow)
  2. Give during Mass using your Christmas envelope.
  3. Give during Mass using a blank envelope labeled “Christmas Collection,” also include “Christmas Collection” on the memo line of your check
  PLEASE NOTE: only donations received (or postmarked) on or before December 31 will appear on your 2023 giving statement that will be sent out by the end of January 2024.

Men Seeking Holiness Day Retreat 12/28

• Come to a high-impact, low-pressure experience “Men Seeking Holiness Day Retreat” on Thursday 12/28th from 9am to 5pm at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish located at 36 N. Ellsworth, Naperville. The cost is $10 which includes lunch. Email vocations@dioceseofjoliet.org for any questions.
• Experience a special day of prayer, discussions, discernment, the life of holiness, Mass, adoration, and Confession. Please share this invitation with the men in your life.

Prayer Ministry 12/30 & 12/31

• Receive Prayer Ministry after all the Mass times the weekend of 12/30 and 12/31! 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 family. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement. Trained prayer ministers will be available in the back of Church.

Angel Giving Program Donations Accepted through 12/31

• This year’s program benefits those individuals assisted by SVDP, Hesed House, Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry and Waterleaf Women’s Center.
• Monetary donations can be made under the Angel Giving Fund via our online giving portal or via check made payable to Our Lady of Mercy with “Angel Giving” in the memo for tax purposes. Accepted thru 12/31.
• Please connect with Lydia at lydias@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org for any questions.

Mass for the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God 1/1/2024

• We close the Christmas Octave (the eight days following the birth of Christ) with a day honoring and celebrating Mary as the Mother of God—The Solemnity of Mary, the Holy Mother of God! We hope to see you at any of the following Mass times 9am and 7pm!

First Friday and Saturday Devotions 1/5 & 1/6/2024

• 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝘂𝘀 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀! This Friday and Saturday, 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 7 am – 4 pm 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 at 1:30pm to 2:30pm

Family Faith Formation Epiphany Enactment 1/7/2024

• Calling ALL K-5th Grade Students: Hold fast to the meaning of the Christmas season and come to enact this beautiful story of the three kings visiting the King of Kings, JESUS!
• WHEN? Epiphany Sunday, January 7th following the 10am Mass. The rehearsal will be in the church on Saturday, January 6th from 10:30-11:30am
• To sign up, please email maryjot@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org by Monday, January 1st!
• Parish Family- join us children as we pray and sign our joyous faith story!

Come and Bowl for a Good Cause at “Rolling in the New Year” 1/7/2024

• Ticket proceeds benefit “Friends of Inharrime” so come on out and bowl for a really good cause!
• What’s Going on Jan 7th? Gather with your friends, family, or co-workers and roll in the New Year by bowling at Parkside Lanes while enjoying a large pizza and a pitcher of a beverage all for an excellent cause.
• Bowl for a good cause!  The ticket proceeds will go towards the charitable organization “Friends of Inharrime.” They work to improve the lives of children and families in Mozambique through projects in education, nutrition, and health such as paying children’s school fees, daily lunch, and medical costs and, with a local hospital, they provide nutrition and medical support for malnourished infants.
• When. Sunday, January 7th
  Arrival Time. 1:15pm starts 1:30pm
  Cost (includes bowling, shoes, large pizza and a pitcher of beverage).
       $25 from 12/3 thru 12/17
       $35 from 12/18 thru 12/31
       $45 from 1/1/ thru 1/6
       $50 at the door
• Questions? Please connect with Mary Kubanda rysavyme@gmail.com from Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group who is hosting this awesome gathering.
• Register Now and Help the children from Mozambique

FOCUS Priest Fr. Tim Anastos Speaks at Weekend Masses 1/13 & 1/14/2024

• The Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) wins the hearts of college students, builds them up in faith, and sends them out into the world. Fr. Tim is excited to share the hope of the New Evangelization with you!

Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest 1/18/2024

• All boys and girls aged 9 to 14, as of January 1, 2024, are invited to participate in the Robert H. Weaver Knights of Columbus #12005 Free Throw Championship. This local event will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2024, 7:00pm in the Our Lady of Mercy Parish Life Center. Registration begins at 6:45pm 
• Participants are required to furnish proof of age and written parental consent on the registration form available at the event. For additional information call (630) 957-7559

Adoration Chapel Dedication 2/11/2024

• Please save the date of Sunday 2/11th because Bishop Hicks will be dedicating the new Adoration Chapel at 1pm on that day; how exciting!

The Rescue Project Begins 2/15/2024

• The Rescue Project begins on Thursday evenings during Lent; It is such a powerful opportunity for our hearts to soften and open to the Lord, because that’s where the changes really happen. It would be great to journey with each other, together as a parish. We hope to see you there. 

Save the Date for the
CRHP Men’s Retreat 2/24 – 2/25 & Women’s Retreat 3/2 – 3/3/2024

• CRHP is an incredible experience that will recharge your faith life, help you develop lasting friendships, and fill you with newfound energy and purpose.
• Registration starts January 1st!
• Should you have any questions in the meantime, connect with the Men and Women’s invitation coordinators for any questions Alex Grove (812)697-1484 or Beatriz Cultura (630)544-0720 crhpolm@gmail.com or check out the FAQs at their webpage.

DisABILITIES Mass at Our Lady of Mercy 3/10/2024

• Save the date for a Diocesan DisABILITIES Mass on Sunday 3/10 at 2pm followed by fellowship. More details to follow.

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.

Is God Calling You to the Priesthood?

• Marriage is good and priesthood is good so how do you choose between two goods?  Connect with Fr Michael at frmichael@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org and speak with him.

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column 

• Bishop Hicks’ monthly column for November is titled “Launching Our 7th Jubilee” 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 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.
    • Novena of Grace with St. Francis Xavier 11/25 through 12/3
    • Monthly Podcast on first Mondays
      • The first episode of the 75th Anniversary podcast series will launch on 11/6th. Episodes will be released on the first Monday of each month. Watch on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast platform!
    • Blessing of St. Francis Xavier Statue on 12/3rd at 1pm.
      • On the Feast of St. Francis Xavier and the final day of the Novena of Grace, a statue of the saint will be blessed at the Blanchette Catholic Center, 16555 Weber Rd., Crest Hill. The statue will serve as a constant reminder of the patron saint of our diocese. Bishop Hicks will bless the statue at 1pm in an open ceremony so that all may witness this moving event.

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 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!

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.

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November 18, 2023 | Parish Update

Using our Gifts. Help decorate our church. Pray for loved ones estranged from the Faith @ MWMA. Start Thanksgiving Day by giving thanks at the 9am Mass. Pray the Diocese of Joliet Novena of Grace starting 11/25!

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)

Growing up, my next-door neighbor and good friend had all the talents: from cool toys and a pool in the back yard to the newest gaming system. On top of that, he was the better natural athlete. I was constantly comparing myself to my friend. There was a lot of discouragement that I felt and it showed the depth and depravity of the sin of jealousy.  

There are over 8 billion people in the world. Out of the 8 billion people that God created, how many are the same as you and me? Exactly no one else! It is crazy to realize that each human being is unrepeatable and beautifully made. Everyone is put on this earth by God, and given a variety of unique gifts and talents.    

Yet, it’s amazing how we can constantly find ourselves stuck in the cycle of comparison and jealously.  The reason why jealousy is so dangerous is because it blinds us to the gifts the Lord has given each and every one of us. Catholic writer G.K. Chesterton said, “Gratitude, being nearly the greatest of human duties, is also nearly the most difficult.”     

In reading our Gospel, we can get caught up in comparing the number of talents the Lord has given us. In the story, the master gives talents to his servants. One was given five, another two, and finally the last servant was only given one. At the end of the story, we might ask why the servant with one talent failed to even invest it. Maybe it was because he was discouraged by jealousy, and was comparing himself with the servants who had two or five. 

Yet, the importance of the Gospel is not in how many talents we are given, but in what we do with the talents! The Lord gives unique gifts to each person. And yes, some gifts are different and are given in different proportions. And that’s okay! The question we need to focus on is “How can I use the gifts the Lord has given me?” At the end of the parable, the servant with five talents and the servant with two talents both received the same reward because they used their talents wisely. Let us turn away from jealousy and comparison and ask the Lord for the ability to see the gifts we have received and for the strength to use those gifts for his glory.  

Father Michael

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

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THIS COMING WEEK

St. Vincent De Paul Clothing Drive 11/18 & 11/19

• The St. Vincent DePaul truck will be in our parking lot the weekend of November 18 & 19th for our Clothing Drive!! Drop off donations before and after the 4pm Mass on Saturday, and on Sunday until noon.  
• We will accept clothing, shoes, linens and books in good or bad condition. Unusable clothing, shoes, linens, and even books generate income for the needy because they are sold for rags or in bulk.  No baby equipment such as cribs, walkers, strollers, playpens, etc. ALL BABY CLOTHES ACCEPTED Small housewares and electronics – dishes, glassware, utensils, toasters, blenders, coffee makers, radios, cd players etc. SORRY NO TELEVISIONS.   

Pick Up a Birchwood Ornament to Help Decorate our Church 11/18 & 11/19

• Help us decorate the narthex for Christmas by taking a birchwood disk (one per family) the weekend of November 18 & 19th
• Decorate your ornament and return it to the parish by the weekend of December 9 & 10th. A drop off table will be in the narthex after weekend masses or you may drop it off at the parish office during the week 
• If you would like to pick it up after the Christmas Season, you are responsible to get it from the narthex after weekend masses on Jan 13/14
•  Placement on the trees will be at the discretion of the arts & environment committee 
• Questions? Please reach out to our Arts & Environment committee at aandeolm@gmail.com

Second collection for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) 11/18 & 11/19 

• Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     Our diocese will soon take up the national collection for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD). Your support for this collection November 18/19 brings change to communities across the country and empowers those living in poverty to transform their communities into reflections of the Kingdom of God. In addition to making a national impact, you empower those living in poverty in our own diocese, because one quarter of our collection stays within the Diocese of Joliet.
       Local grant recipients in our diocese include emergency assistance and food pantry supplies for St. Vincent De Paul chapters, vocational job training for adults with disabilities, and community outreach programming for at-risk youth and families. (This year OLM PADS/Hesed House Ministry were recipients of a $3,500 monetary grant which was used to purchase a full size insulated holding cabinet, which will help us keep food warm at our OLM kitchen, prior to being transported to Hesed House).     When you contribute to CCHD in your parish, not only do you help address the symptoms of poverty, but your donation also helps alleviate the root causes of poverty—both globally and locally. Twenty-five percent of your donation stays in your diocese to support organizations making a difference in the lives of your neighbors.     Please prayerfully consider how you can help CCHD this year. If you would like more information about the collection and the people it supports, visit the “CCHD Collection” section on the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ website at usccb.org/cchd.     Thank you for joining us to work on the margins. With every good wish, may God bless you.      As I remain –
       Sincerely yours in Christ,
       Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks

PADS Board On Display 11/18 & 11/19

• Our next PADS service day is Tuesday, December 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.

Mondays with Monica & Augustine Prayer Group Continues 11/20

• We are blessed to have St. Monica and St. Augustine accompany us as we consider our own family situations with our own loved ones who have fallen away from the Church; see you for prayer at OLM on Mondays at 7:30pm.
•      Anticipation—the upcoming holiday season is filled with it. And with Advent around the corner, we look forward to family gatherings, beautiful celebrations at church, and all the blessings that come during this season. As we wait, our hope in the Lord can increase, and our faith can grow stronger.
       But sometimes, the holiday season can be difficult. Instead of anticipating the good things God has in store for us, we may anticipate family tension or spending Christmas somewhat isolated from our loved ones; the hardest part of loving someone estranged from the Faith is the sense of isolation. No matter how we feel, we can experience God’s goodness and love during Advent. Even our struggles can be an opportunity for God to work in our lives. Jesus wants to calm our fears and fill us with hope—a sure and certain trust in His promises, especially for our loved ones. He wants us to hear His comforting voice. At Mondays with Monica and Augustine (MWMA), come and hear Jesus’ comforting voice, perhaps through the reflection, or while praying for our loved ones by name. Praying together with others in a similar situation removes the sense of isolation.
    So far at MWMA, we’ve reflected on the reality of having adult children who have walked away from the Faith, but what about when the conflict remains in front of you? What about the teens who won’t go to Mass, or the college student who reject the Church’s teachings on sexuality, or the adults who lead lives contrary to the Faith and still live at home? “Love your children where they are” sounds lovely until you have to put it into practice and come up against realities you find objectionable.
     Remember that Jesus meets the woman at the well and calls to Zacchaus in his tree. He calls to Matthew at his customs post and to James and John as they work with their father on the fishing nets. He comes to each of us where we are. Sometimes, after we have been evangelized, we can forget what it feels like to be one who has yet to hear in the heart God’s invitation. Our job is to make sure we aren’t drowning out God’s invitation. Jesus asked people what they wanted of Him; “What do you want Me to do for you?” The blind man said, “I want to see” (Mark 10:51). Jesus seeks out each of us individually through our lives, through our sufferings, our joys, and our relationships. Make sure you’re letting Him speak through you with the invitation to something more, something whole, something holy. (The rest of this reflection will be at the MWMA at 7pm inside the Church on Mondays).

EDGE Night for Middle School Youth 11/20

• Middle school youth gather on Monday 11/20from 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 11/21

• For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers… Come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 11/21st 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 11/21

• 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 or sign up at the link HERE
• Come to Consuming Fire this week for a talk on St. Francis Xavier!

Vine & Branches Continues 11/22

• 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

Thanksgiving Mass 11/23

• Start Thanksgiving day by joining us in giving thanks to the Lord our God and rejoicing in the gift of His love. We pray to see you at the Thanksgiving Mass at 9am. Bring visiting family and friends. Invite the college student in your family who is home for Thanksgiving break; it would be great to see them at the Mass as well!
• Please note the parish office will close at 1pm on Wednesday, November 22nd, for the Thanksgiving holiday and will remain closed through Friday, November 24th. Normal operations will resume on Monday.

Diocese of Joliet Novena of Grace 11/25 through 12/3

• In commemorating 75 years of Catechesis, Evangelization and Service, Bishop Hicks is inviting everyone to be in prayer from 11/25th through 12/3rd in a 9 day novena of prayer to St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of the Diocese of Joliet. Proceed here for the novena.
• Check out the link HERE to find out more about the year-long 75th Anniversary plans.

Prayer Ministry 11/25 & 11/26

• Receive Prayer Ministry after all the Mass times the weekend of 11/25 and 11/26! 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 family. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement. Trained prayer ministers will be available in the back of Church.

Donut Sunday 11/26

• Stop by the PLC after the 8am and 10am Masses on November 26th for yummy Donuts, good Coffee & wonderful Fellowship. 

Drop off Angel Giving Program Stockings by 11/26

• This year’s program benefits those individuals assisted by SVDP, Hesed House, Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry and Waterleaf Women’s Center.  Here are the following ways you can assist families in need over the holidays.
• Fill your stocking with stuffers & return it to the bin by the Welcome Desk or to the Main Office by Sunday 11/26!  
• Monetary donations can be made under the Angel Giving Fund via our online giving portal or via check made payable to Our Lady of Mercy with “Angel Giving” in the memo for tax purposes. Accepted thru 12/31.
• Please connect with Lydia at lydias@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org for any questions.

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.

Weekly Adoration

• COME AND ADORE OUR LORD! Eucharistic Adoration is held three times a week at OLM!
• So come and encounter Jesus anytime this week at 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!

• 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!

We’re almost there, we have the following time slots that do not have anyone signed up to spend time with Jesus; we’re praying you would be the one to sign up for any of the following time spots
Tuesday 8:30am, 4pm
Wednesday 5pm
Thursday 8:30am
Friday 10am, 4pm
Our hope is that two individuals sign up for each of the hourly timeslots Monday through Friday from 8:30am through 5pm; please help us achieve this goal.  It truly is the best time that you could gift yourself. Click here to sign up.

LOOKING AHEAD

Register for Ladies Advent Tea by 11/27

• Hey there, fabulous ladies! Get ready to sparkle and shine at our 14th Annual Ladies Advent Tea on Sunday, December 3rd, from 2pm to 4:30pm in the warm and cozy Parish Life Center (PLC).  
• This year, we’re diving into the blessing of the season with the theme “The Gifts of Advent.” Join us for an afternoon of pure vibes – we’re talking prayer, reflection, and the kind of fellowship that warms your soul like your favorite cup of hot tea.
• Bring your A-game with a China teacup and saucer. But no worries if you’re more of a mug person; we’ve got plenty to go around for your teacup of choice.
  And because we believe in the power of sugar, bring a dozen of your favorite sweets to share!
• Secure your spot by registering HERE or click on the graphic below.

Giving Tuesday on 11/28

• Giving Tuesday is a day when people worldwide financially support their favorite nonprofit causes. It’s celebrated annually on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving which is on 11/28th this year. As you prepare to open your hearts to support worthy causes on Giving Tuesday, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to Our Lady of Mercy.
  
  As of 11/5, we are below budget by approximately $46,000.
  
  We wouldn’t be able to accomplish everything we do without your continued support. Your gift of any amount will help us meet our budget so as to enable us to live out our vision of offering every person a life-changing encounter with Jesus, grow disciples, and send them on mission.
  
  If you’ve been impacted by Our Lady of Mercy, please consider supporting us on Giving Tuesday, please select “Sunday Contributions” on the online OSV give link below.
  
  We pray you can help us by joining this effort; all donors will receive an OLM Car magnet. Please be sure to write a note on the memo “Giving Tuesday” so we can send one to you or stop by the parish office to pick up your car magnet.  We thank you for your prayerful generosity and support this Giving Tuesday!

I support OLM on Giving Tuesday

The Chosen Season 3 Catholic Bible Study Continues on 11/28

• 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 @ 7pmContact: Joe Wiacek and Joe Glasgow OLMBiblestudies@gmail.com Registration: Please register here 
• 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.

Magnify Adoration Night 11/29

• Our monthly MAGNIFY is on Wednesday 11/29 from 7pm to 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.

Final SoulCore Class for the year – Friendsgiving Theme on 11/29

• Don’t miss the last class of the Fall session of SoulCore on 11/29 from 6-8pm- a Friendsgiving Theme!
• Join SoulCore Leaders Jen Bickel, and Lisa Hir. Invite your friends and join us to pray, move our bodies, and give thanks for the “apostolate of friendship.” We look forward to praying with you and offering a friendship rosary to celebrate our end-of-the-year Soulcore ministry and fellowship! (Don’t worry, we will resume with a Winter Session set of classes.)
• Leaders will provide some light snacks and beveragesplease. Bring exercise mat and water. Wear Comfortable clothing.
  Bring a candle for a gift exchange so we can all receive a gift of light and seasonal fragrance for the Advent Season.
• No cost to attend. Please RSVP at this here.

Salt and Light Grow Group Continues 11/29 & 11/30

• Join Salt and Light Grow Group for 𝗙𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗚𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘆’𝘀 “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗼𝗹𝗱” for 10 fast-paced and lively sessions through a video talk followed by group discussion. From the epic story of Poland’s national suffering to the events of Fatima, the revelations of St. Faustina, the heroic efforts of St. Maximilian Kolbe, and the life of St. John Paul II, the panorama of Divine mercy is fully revealed as a transformative reality. A free study guide will be given to all participants.
• Join us either 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.

A Mother’s Heart Grow Group Book Study on “Interior Freedom” Begins 11/30

• Join A Mother’s Heart Grow Group, as together we strive to grow in virtue and submit ourselves to the will of God, because He is the only source who can grant true freedom.
• Our book study will meet twice a month on Thursday evenings from 7-9PM in a local parishioner’s home in Oswego. Please email Lydia at lydiadschmitt@gmail.com for location and details. Our first book gathering will be held on November 30! You can also sign up HERE

Dr. John Bergsma speaks at St. Patrick’s in Yorkville 11/30

• Dr. Bergsma, a Theology Professor at Franciscan University and former Protestant pastor, will demystify the Bible in one evening from his popular book, “Bible Basics for Catholics.”
• A meet-and-greet will begin at 6:00 PM, and his talk will start at 6:30 PM in the church. After the presentation, there will be time for a Q&A. All are welcome to attend.
• This event is FREE & great for inviting your friends and family who want to learn more about the Bible. Whether you are new to the faith or have been Catholic your whole life, you will learn something new! 

Registration for Simbang Gabi Mass & Celebration starts 12/1

• Please save the date for the annual Simbang Gabi Filipino tradition of celebrating devotional Mass on Saturday 12/16th at 6pm.
• Registration will start on 12/1st.
• The Simbang Gabi Committee is also looking for volunteers – singers, dancers, performers, DJ, hosts, etc. Please contact Edna Santig (331) 588-5556 if interested. 
• What is Simbang Gabi you may wonder? Find out here.

First Friday and Saturday Devotions 12/1 & 12/2

• 𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝘂𝘀 𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝘆𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀! This Friday and Saturday, 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 December 1. Prayer warriors are needed for one hour shifts 7 am – 4 pm 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 at 1:30pm to 2:30pm

Let Heaven and Nature Sing 12/2

• Need an uplifting Advent Family Adventure? Join us at OLM on Saturday, Dec. 2nd from 1-3pm for Advent crafts, games, a service project, food, & fellowship! Inspired by classic Christmas carols!
• Please RSVP by email to maryjot@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org with family name & count TODAY or by Nov. 29!

Charismatic Healing Mass 12/2

• On Saturday, 12/2 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 Board Item Drop-Off Weekend 12/2 & 12/3

• Drop off all items before Masses this weekend. Thank you for your generosity.
• Monetary donations can also be made via the OLM Online Giving Portal (please specify that the donation is for Hesed House), or make checks payable to Our Lady of Mercy Church, and write on the memo “Hesed House-PADS” 

Saint Nicholas Visits After Mass 12/3

• Calling all children, stay after the 10am Mass on Sunday, December 3rd for a quick visit with St. Nicholas and to find out his story.
  -Following the example of blessed St. Nicholas, may we strive to profess what he believed and to practice what he taught-

Mass for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception 12/7 & 12/8

• As we celebrate the Immaculate Conception, patroness of the United States, we pray you’ll join us for Mass: Thursday Vigil Mass on Dec.7th at 7pm OR Friday, December 8th at 8am or 7pm.

Retirement Fund for Religious 12/9 & 12/10

• Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,     Our diocese will soon take up the national collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious. Your support for this collection December 9/10 provides financial assistance for retirement needs for 297 U.S. religious communities.      Catholic sisters, brothers and religious order priests—collectively known as women and men religious—have selflessly served for decades without significant financial compensation. However, due to escalating health-care costs, numerous U.S. religious communities face a substantial gap between their elderly members’ needs and the financial resources available for their care. Many religious orders currently experience insufficient retirement savings.     The 2022 appeal demonstrated Catholics’ tremendous generosity by raising $27.6 million. Diocese of Joliet parishioners contributed $286,788.25 to the collection.      The senior religious in our diocese never retire from their vows, and they play a crucial role in conveying the faith from one generation to the next. In their younger years, they laid the foundation for Catholic schools, hospitals, and works of mercy. Today, many serve in volunteer ministry as ongoing witnesses to the Gospel. Others are frail and need assistance, yet all remain wholly committed to their vocations by embracing the opportunity to spend more time praying for our Church and world.      Please support the retirement needs of our senior religious. And please join me in praying for God’s continued blessing on our nation’s elderly sisters, brothers, and religious order priests.     As I remain –
          Sincerely yours in Christ,
          Most Reverend Ronald A. Hicks
          Bishop of Joliet

Advent Reflection for Liturgical Ministers 12/9

• All liturgical ministers are invited to an Advent Reflection on Saturday, December 9th from 11am-Noon in the Church. Come join us for time away from the busyness of life to reflect on the season of Advent and the mystery of the Incarnation.  

Donut Sunday 12/10

• Stop by the PLC after the 8am and 10am Masses on 12/10 for yummy donuts, good coffee & wonderful fellowship. 

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.

EDGE Alden Nursing Home Service Trip 12/11

• The EDGE is a Catholic middle school youth ministry experience created for early adolescents in grades 6, 7, & 8. The EDGE is designed to meet the educational, spiritual, emotional, and social needs of young adolescents. Kids are always welcomed and encouraged to invite their friends to the EDGE.
• For information on this service opportunity please contact Adolfo & Joana Lopez at adolfol@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org or joanal@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org 

Living With Grief – Finding the Meaning of Christmas While Grieving 12/11 & 12/12

• 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.
• Grief topics will vary each month. Come to the one that would be of support to you. 
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.
• Finding the Meaning of Christmas While Grieving, come to one of the sessions either on Monday 12/11th from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 208 or Tuesday 12/12th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe 12/12

• Mass will be at 6:30pm in English, with music in Spanish. Roses for the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe will be available in the narthex. A reception will follow in the PLC.

Advent Confession Times 12/18-12/23

• The hope for the Advent Season is to offer Confessions as much as the priests can which is why…There will be SIX straight days of Confessions from 1/18-12/23!
  Monday through Friday from 7pm to 8:30pm
  Saturday 9am to 10am and 1:30pm to 2:30pm
  Using the examination of conscience on the following link, ask the Holy Spirit to help you search your heart. Where do you sense God is calling you to repent? Remember, Jesus will never condemn you; He is always ready to forgive you: https://bit.ly/ConfessionsatOLMPage 

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 12/19

• For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers… Come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 12/19 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.

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 12/20

• The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 12/20 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. 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!

Blessing of Baby Jesus 12/23

• On Saturday, Dec.23rd at 12:30pm, families are invited to bring Baby Jesus from their family creche to the Church for a special blessing!

Men Seeking Holiness Day Retreat 12/28

• Come to a high-impact, low-pressure experience “Men Seeking Holiness Day Retreat” on Thursday 12/28th from 9am to 5pm at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish located at 36 N. Ellsworth, Naperville. The cost is $10 which includes lunch. Email vocations@dioceseofjoliet.org for any questions.
• Experience a special day of prayer, discussions, discernment, the life of holiness, Mass, adoration, and Confession. Please share this invitation with the men in your life.

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.

Is God Calling You to the Priesthood?

• Marriage is good and priesthood is good so how do you choose between two goods?  Connect with Fr Michael at frmichael@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org and speak with him.

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column 

• Bishop Hicks’ monthly column for November is titled “Launching Our 7th Jubilee” 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 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.
    • Novena of Grace with St. Francis Xavier 11/25 through 12/3
    • Monthly Podcast on first Mondays
      • The first episode of the 75th Anniversary podcast series will launch on 11/6th. Episodes will be released on the first Monday of each month. Watch on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast platform!
    • Blessing of St. Francis Xavier Statue on 12/3rd at 1pm.
      • On the Feast of St. Francis Xavier and the final day of the Novena of Grace, a statue of the saint will be blessed at the Blanchette Catholic Center, 16555 Weber Rd., Crest Hill. The statue will serve as a constant reminder of the patron saint of our diocese. Bishop Hicks will bless the statue at 1pm in an open ceremony so that all may witness this moving event.

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 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!

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.

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November 5, 2023 | Parish Update

I Will Give You Shepherds. The Second Greatest Story. Knights Blood Drive & Pancake Breakfast. Angel Giving. And November 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! My name is Jared Beltz and I am a first year seminarian for the Diocese of Joliet. Our Lady of Mercy is my home parish, and I am very grateful to have the opportunity to come back home and share my faith journey with all of you at Mass this weekend.

I was born into a Catholic family, and we attended Mass every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation, participated in religious education, and were active at the parish. I served in many ministries at Our Lady of Mercy, ranging from altar serving and singing in the choir as a kid, to cantoring and serving as a Eucharistic Minister as an adult. Through these ministries, I gained perspective into the life of a priest, and formed personal relationships with the priests at OLM.

As I progressed through college, I began to feel more comfortable telling others about my faith in God, and found myself spending more time in prayer at church, helping at Vacation Bible School, and going on Mission Trips with OLM. I had been trying to decide what I wanted to do after college, and the thoughts of priesthood and serving the Church in this way were always in my mind. Multiple people started asking me some variation of “Have you ever considered the priesthood?” or “Have you ever thought about becoming a priest?” These encounters, along with my persistent thoughts, made me begin to seriously discern the priesthood. In addition, I felt that God was trying to speak to me last year as I listened to the readings on Holy Thursday when Jesus washed the feet of his disciples and made the point of serving others before himself (John 13:1-15). I believe this was God working through the people in my life, as well as through his Word.

Since deciding to take the step to enter into seminary formation, I have had many graces come into my life. I am currently in the midst of a “Spirituality Year”, a stage in formation that allows men like me to dive deeper into our Catholic faith. I have been given the opportunity to grow in my faith through reading the Bible and Catechism in a year. I have also grown in service through ministering in impoverished neighborhoods in the city of Chicago. I am so blessed to have begun this journey to the priesthood. Please know that I keep all of you in my prayers, and I ask for your prayers as I continue my seminary formation. God bless!

Jared Beltz

Support our Future Priests through the I Will Give You Shepherds Campaign

Priests are essential to our Catholic faith, as only these holy men can transform bread and wine into the life-giving Body and Blood of Christ. Although the number of priests has been on the decline for decades, the Diocese of Joliet has been blessed with an abundance of vocations to the priesthood.

Currently, our diocese has 21 men in seminary formation, which costs $52,250 a year per seminarian. To ensure we are always able to support our seminarians both prayerfully and financially, the Diocese of Joliet has launched the “I Will Give You Shepherds” campaign. Gifts will be invested in an endowment designated specifically for seminarian education. 

Please prayerfully consider supporting this campaign, for it will help to ensure the diocese is always able to assist seminarians with their formation. Your gift will make a difference in our Church and our world for years to come.  It will have a lasting impact on the men preparing to serve as our shepherds in every parish in our diocese. Throughout their years of priestly ministry, the men your gift helps educate will celebrate the sacraments, provide counsel, and preach the Word for the benefit of us all.

Click on this link to learn more about this campaign or to make a gift online.

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

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THIS COMING WEEK

Mondays with Monica & Augustine Prayer Group Continues 11/6

• We are privileged to have St. Monica and St. Augustine accompany us as we consider our own family situations with our own loved ones who have fallen away from the Church, see you for prayer at OLM on Mondays at 7:30pm.

EDGE Night for Middle School Youth 11/6

• Middle school youth gather on Monday 11/6 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.

The Chosen Season 3 Catholic Bible Study Continues on 11/7

• 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 @ 7pmContact: Joe Wiacek and Joe Glasgow OLMBiblestudies@gmail.com Registration: Please register here 
• 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

Consuming Fire Young Adult Group Continues 11/7

• 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 and hear from Fr Frank as he gives a talk “Going Up: An Introduction to St. Therese” one of his favorite Saints!

Salt and Light Grow Group Continues 11/8

• Join Salt and Light Grow Group for 𝗙𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗲𝗹 𝗚𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘆’𝘀 “𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝗘𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗼𝗹𝗱” for 10 fast-paced and lively sessions through a video talk followed by group discussion, Fr. Gaitley connects people and events in history to a unifying vision of the splendor of God’s merciful love. From the epic story of Poland’s national suffering to the events of Fatima, the revelations of St. Faustina, the heroic efforts of St. Maximilian Kolbe, and the life of St. John Paul II, the panorama of Divine mercy is fully revealed as a transformative reality. A free study guide will be given to all participants.
• Join us either Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm or Thursday afternoons at 1pm; it would be great to dive deeper into Pope Saint John Paul’s “special task” assigned to him by God for our time, which is Divine Mercy, come and make Pope St John Paul’s story your own. 
• Check out the trailer below! For more details and registration, proceed here, and please don’t forget to bring a friend.

Vine & Branches Continues 11/8

• 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

Alpha Continues on 11/9

• We enter week 10 on Thursday 11/9 at Alpha, where the talk is “Does God Heal Today?” pressing into how God loves and cares about us and has the power to heal. Please keep the group in your prayers!

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.

Assist Families in Need through the Angel Giving Program 11/11 & 11/12

• Pick up a stocking after all Mass times the weekend of 11/11 & 11/12 and return it by Sunday 11/26 filled with any of the suggested items!
• This year’s program benefits those individuals assisted by SVDP, Hesed House, Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry and Waterleaf Women’s Center.  Here are the following ways you can assist families in need over the holidays.
• Fill your stocking with stuffers & return it to the bin by the Welcome Desk or to the Main Office by Sunday 11/26!  The Angel Giving Program benefits kids at the Aurora Food Pantry.
• Monetary donations can be made under the Angel Giving Fund via our online giving portal or via check made payable to Our Lady of Mercy with “Angel Giving” in the memo for tax purposes. Accepted thru 12/31.
• Please connect with Lydia at lydias@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org for any questions.

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.

Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion Training 11/12

• Training for new Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion will take place in the Church on Sunday, November 12 from 3:30pm to 4:30pm. Registered, participating parishioners age 16 or older who have been confirmed and attend mass regularly are eligible to become an Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Kim Harris at kimharris73@yahoo.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.

Weekly Adoration

• COME AND ADORE OUR LORD! Eucharistic Adoration is held three times a week at OLM!
• So come and encounter Jesus anytime this week at 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!

• 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!

We’re almost there, we have the following time slots that do not have anyone signed up to spend time with Jesus; we’re praying you would be the one to sign up for any of the following time spotsTuesday 8:30am, 12pm, 4pmWednesday 5pmFriday 10am, 4pmOur hope is that two individuals sign up for each of the hourly timeslots Monday through Friday from 8:30am through 5pm; please help us achieve this goal.  It truly is the best time that you could gift yourself. Click here to sign up.

LOOKING AHEAD

Living With Grief – Finding Gratitude While Grieving 11/13 & 11/14

• 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.
• Grief topics will vary each month. Come to the one that would be of support to you. 
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.
• Finding Gratitude While Grieving, come to one of the sessions either on Monday 11/13th from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 208 or Tuesday 11/14th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208

A Mother’s Heart Grow Group—Stories of Saints: Mother Teresa 11/15

• Our Lady of Mercy’s “A Mother’s Heart Grow Group” invites mothers and their young children to experience “Stories of Saints” on Wednesday, 11/15 from 9:15am to 10:15am. We’ll begin with a song, 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!
• Please RSVP HERE for each child who will be participating so we can plan to welcome you! 

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 11/15

• The Mobile Food Pantry is on Weds 11/15 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!

St. Vincent De Paul Clothing Drive 11/18 & 11/19

• The St. Vincent DePaul truck will be in our parking lot the weekend of November 18 & 19th for our Clothing Drive!!  Pick up the SVDP white donation bags found in the atrium entrance and drop them off before and after the 4pm Mass on Saturday and Sunday until noon.  
• We will accept clothing, shoes, linens and books in good or bad condition. Unusable clothing, shoes, linens, and even books generate income for the needy because they are sold for rags or in bulk.  No baby equipment such as cribs, walkers, strollers, playpens, etc. ALL BABY CLOTHES ACCEPTED Small housewares and electronics – dishes, glassware, utensils, toasters, blenders, coffee makers, radios, cd players etc. SORRY NO TELEVISIONS. 
• For furniture and large item donations please call 630-231-4658 to schedule a home pickup at a later date or email us at – saintvincentdonate@gmail.com.  

Pick Up a Birchwood Ornament to Help Decorate our Church 11/18 & 11/19

• Help us decorate the narthex for Christmas by taking a birchwood disk (one per family) the weekend of November 18 & 19th
• Decorate your ornament and return it to the parish by the weekend of December 9 & 10th. A drop off table will be in the narthex after weekend masses or you may drop it off at the parish office during the week 
• If you would like to pick it up after the Christmas Season, you are responsible to get it from the narthex after weekend masses on Jan 13/14
•  Placement on the trees will be at the discretion of the arts & environment committee 
• Questions? Please reach out to our Arts & Environment committee at aandeolm@gmail.com

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 11/21

• For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers… Come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 11/21st 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.

Thanksgiving Mass 11/23

• Start Thanksgiving day by joining us in giving thanks to the Lord our God and rejoicing in the gift of His love. Mass will be at 9am.

Diocese of Joliet Novena of Grace 11/25 through 12/3

• In commemorating 75 years of Catechesis, Evangelization and Service, Bishop Hicks is inviting everyone to be in prayer from 11/25th through 12/3rd in a 9 day novena of prayer to St. Francis Xavier, the patron saint of the Diocese of Joliet. Proceed here for the novena.
• Check out Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column note below to find out more about the year-long 75th Anniversary plans.

Prayer Ministry 11/25 & 11/26

• Receive Prayer Ministry after all the Mass times the weekend of 11/25 and 11/26! 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 family. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit’s movement. Trained prayer ministers are available in the back of Church.

Donut Sunday 11/26

• Stop by the PLC after the 8am and 10am Masses on November 26th for yummy Donuts, good Coffee & wonderful Fellowship. 

Magnify Adoration Night 11/29

• Our monthly MAGNIFY is on Wednesday 11/29 from 7pm to 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.

A Mother’s Heart Grow Group Book Study on “Interior Freedom” Begins 11/30

• Join Our Lady of Mercy’s, A Mother’s Heart Grow Group, as together we strive to grow in virtue and submit ourselves to the will of God, because He is the only source who can grant true freedom.
• Our book study will meet twice a month on Thursday evenings from 7-9PM in a local parishioner’s home in Oswego. Please email Lydia at lydiadschmitt@gmail.com for location and details. Our first book gathering will be held on November 30!
• You can also sign up HERE

Ladies Advent Tea 12/3

• Save the Date for the 14th Annual Our Lady of Mercy Ladies Advent Tea on Sunday, 12/3rd at 2pm “The Gifts of Advent.”  Details and registration will be released in the coming days.

Men Seeking Holiness Day Retreat 12/28

• Come to a high-impact, low-pressure experience “Men Seeking Holiness Day Retreat” on Thursday 12/28th from 9am to 5pm at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish located at 36 N. Ellsworth, Naperville. The cost is $10 which includes lunch. Email vocations@dioceseofjoliet.org for any questions.
• Experience a special day of prayer, discussions, discernment, the life of holiness, Mass, adoration, and Confession. Please share this invitation with the men in your life.

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.

Living With Grief – Finding the Meaning of Christmas While Grieving 12/11 & 12/12

• 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.
• Grief topics will vary each month. Come to the one that would be of support to you. 
• Registration is requested- Connect with Jolene Leroy at 331-707-5380 to RSVP or for questions.
• Finding the Meaning of Christmas While Grieving, come to one of the sessions either on Monday 12/11th from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 208 or Tuesday 12/12th from 1pm to 2:30pm in Room 208

Simbang Gabi Mass & Celebration 12/16

• Please save the date for the annual Simbang Gabi Filipino tradition of celebrating devotional Mass on Saturday 12/16th at 6pm.
• Registration will start on 12/1st.
• The Simbang Gabi Committee is also looking for volunteers – singers, dancers, performers, DJ, hosts, etc. Please contact Edna Santig (331) 588-5556 if interested. 
• What is Simbang Gabi you may wonder? Find out here.

Thank You for your generosity on Undy Sunday

• Dear Friends, 
  I am writing to express gratitude for your participation in Undy Sunday 2023. Your generous contributions were pivotal in making this event a success. 
  Most of us don’t give a second thought to essentials like new underwear, warm socks, and fresh diapers in our daily lives. However, these items are simply out of reach for many families and seniors living on poverty-level incomes. This can impact someone’s dignity, health, and confidence. Your kindness has directly impacted the lives of our most vulnerable neighbors. 
  On behalf of everyone we serve at Catholic Charities, thank you for your support. We are distributing Undy Sunday items to children, families, and seniors who turn to us for assistance. The collective effort will help us provide these items through the coming year. 
  Once again, thank you for your ongoing generosity and compassion. May God bless you and all those you love, always. 
  Kathleen Langdon
  Executive Director

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!
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    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.

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.

Is God Calling You to the Priesthood?

• Marriage is good and priesthood is good so how do you choose between two goods?  Connect with Fr Michael at frmichael@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org and speak with him.

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column 

• Bishop Hicks’ monthly column for October is titled “Contemplating the Convocation” 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 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.
    • Novena of Grace with St. Francis Xavier 11/25 through 12/3
    • Monthly Podcast on first Mondays
      • The first episode of the 75th Anniversary podcast series will launch on 11/6th. Episodes will be released on the first Monday of each month. Watch on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast platform!
    • Blessing of St. Francis Xavier Statue on 12/3rd at 1pm.
      • On the Feast of St. Francis Xavier and the final day of the Novena of Grace, a statue of the saint will be blessed at the Blanchette Catholic Center, 16555 Weber Rd., Crest Hill. The statue will serve as a constant reminder of the patron saint of our diocese. Bishop Hicks will bless the statue at 1pm in an open ceremony so that all may witness this moving event.

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 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!

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.

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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!
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    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.

September 17, 2023 | Parish Update

How do we forgive? The Priest Convocation. Fatima Statue Visit. Chris Stefanick in Person on 9/27. And it’s not too late to join Alpha!

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)

There is a story about when St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, who received visions of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, spoke to a priest about her visions. The priest did not want either one of them to be deceived, so he told her that if Jesus appeared to her again, to ask Him one question. He told her to ask Him what the last mortal sin he confessed was. When Jesus appeared to her again, Margaret Mary asked Him the question, Jesus looked at her and said, “I don’t remember.” 

Even though God knows everything, after He has forgiven our sins, it is as if that sin never happened. It is truly forgiven. Yet in the First Reading, it says, “The vengeful will suffer the LORD’s vengeance, for he remembers their sins in detail.” In order for us to be forgiven, we first need to forgive. This is what we pray in the Our Father: “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” If our hearts are not open to forgive others, how can they be open to receive forgiveness?

But how do we forgive? We have to start with what forgiveness is not. It is not saying that what the other person did to us is okay. Because we think like this, we end up like the unforgiving servant trying to choke his fellow servant, saying, “Pay back what you owe.” 

Instead, we need to acknowledge that what they did hurt us. Sister Miriam James Heidland, SOLT, says that with Jesus, we even need to make an account of what that person did to hurt us. We do this not to hold on to what they owe us but instead to acknowledge the hurt we experienced. But as we do this, we must also acknowledge that justice is most likely not possible on this earth. That other person might not even be aware that they hurt us or even be sorry.

Because justice is not possible on this earth, we know that God will bring about justice, if not in this life, then in the next. Forgiveness is letting go of what they owe us and instead giving that up to God, Who will bring about justice. Forgiveness is saying that I acknowledge that you hurt me, but I give that hurt, and you, to God.

If God forgives as if He forgets our sins, are we called to forget how that person has hurt us? The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, “It is not in our power not to feel or to forget an offense; but the heart that offers itself to the Holy Spirit turns injury into compassion and purifies the memory in transforming the hurt into intercession.” When we forgive, God can even transform those painful memories into sources of healing for us and the other person.

I also invite you to pray with this Forgiveness Meditation from Sister Miriam below.

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

PADS/Hesed House Board on Display 9/18 through 9/29

• The OLM PADS/Hesed House Board is now on display in the Atrium (Door B Entrance). The board contains a “wish-list” 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 September 30th and October 1st.
• 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”. Thank you for supporting our mission of mercy.

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

• Let us be in prayer for Bishop Hicks, Father Michael, Father Frank, and all the priests of the Diocese of Joliet in this important time of prayer and brotherhood at the Convocation for Priests from September 18 – 21. The Joliet priest convocation is held every other year. 
• There will be no Confessions available during the week.
• Communion services are scheduled for 6:30pm on Monday, while religious order priests will preside over the rest of the regularly scheduled Masses.
• Sign up and dedicate a holy hour to pray for them here. Please invite others to pray for our beloved priests and bishops.

OCIA Continues on 9/18

• 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.
• 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 Continues 9/18

• 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? 
• 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 every Monday 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.)

Consuming Fire 9/19

• 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” 
• 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” 9/19

• 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.
• 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.

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

• At Fatima, our heavenly Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, identified the cause of the difficulties of today’s world as its rejection of God—in a single word, sin. She told us that the solution to our problems lay in the conversion of sinners—in our returning to God, and in accepting the mission of praying for the conversion of sinners, helping them to avoid the fate of eternal loss. Our heavenly Mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, has assured us that in the end her Immaculate Heart will triumph. 
• 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 Holy Mass
    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

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!

Salt and Light 9/20

• 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!

Vine & Branches Informational Session 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 faith communities. Vine and Branches Grow Group is a place to help people find healing. It 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 session on Wednesday, September 20 at 7pm to find out more. The program will start on October 4th; please register here to take part in it.

SoulCore Fall Session for Six Weeks Continues 9/20

• The Fall Session of SoulCore on Wednesday evening continues on 9/20th 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.

Join the Choir on Wednesday 9/20

• 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 continuing 9/21

• 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 𝟵/𝟮𝟭 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 9/20 & 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

The Reliquaries of St. Therese and her parents are at the National Shrine in Darien now through 10/1

• The Centennial Reliquary of St. Therese and her parents, Saints Louis and Zelie Martin, will visit the National Shrine of St. Therese in Darien through October 1st.
• They will have daily Masses at 11:30am and special programs daily from 2pm to 4pm.
• Sign up HERE for Relic Visit reminders and further details as the visit approaches!

Season of Creation now through 10/4

• You may have noticed a beautiful new Season of Creation liturgical banner in our midst! What is Season of Creation? The Season of Creation is a time to renew our relationship with our Creator and all creation through celebration, conversion, and commitment together. During the Season of Creation, we join our sisters and brothers in the ecumenical family in prayer and action for our common home. Pope Francis made the Roman Catholic Church’s warm welcoming of the season official in 2015.
• The diocesan Laudato Si’ committee recently joined Bishop Hicks at Mass to kick off the Season of Creation (9/1–10/4). Their mission is to develop a comprehensive approach to care for creation and the implementation of Laudato Si’ through education, pastoral support, advocacy, care for the poor and vulnerable, environmental justice, and fostering community.
• Learn more about the Laudato Si’ Action Plan they created and Season of Creation events at this link.

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.

LOOKING AHEAD

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

• In honor of Our Lady of Mercy feast day 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.  
• 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.
  • 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 
  • During the 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 we can have Eucharistic Adoration Monday through Friday from 8am to 6pm 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 perceptible.
• 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

• Are the tickets sold out? No—it is not sold out, so please register as soon as you can.
  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.

Walking Through Grief Begins 10/2

• 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, 10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, and 10/30 and 11/ 6 in Room 202 in the Parish Life Center (PLC). If you would like to attend or have questions, please call 331-707-5380.

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.

Crafty Souls 12 Hour Craft Event 10/7

• Join us on Saturday, October 7th from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Bring your favorite project and spend the day crafting in the Multi-Purpose Room. Registration deadline is September 30 and the $25 fee includes lunch and dinner. Contact olmcraftysouls@gmail.com for more information and to register. 

Little Pops Pizza Fundraiser 10/11

• What are you having for lunch or dinner on Wednesday 10/11th? …. Perhaps make it a Pizza Day – and for a really good cause. And not just any pizza, but really good pizza!
• Little Pops Pizzeria by New York and Eola is donating 20% of all sales on Wed. 10/11th from 11am to 9pm to our Knights of Columbus Council #12005 to benefit the OLM Family Faith Formation Program.
• Please support our amazing Knights of Columbus Council, please don’t forget to mention “KNIGHTS’ so your sales will count. If you order online (here is the link) https://www.littlepopspizzeria.com/ please type in “KNIGHTS” in the NOTES section. 

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

Pregnancy & Infant Loss Remembrance Day Memorial Service 10/15

• Please save the date on Sunday, October 15th, after the 10am Mass for 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 
• 2 pm @ St. Mary Immaculate (15629 South Route 59, Plainfield.

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!

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

• Calling all parents with children in Kindergarten through 12th Grade, register soon by September 30th for the Family Faith Formation due to start the second week of October.
• 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.

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