June 12, 2021 | Weekly Update

The Seed of Faith

The mustard seed of faith is small and fragile, but with faith, we can move mountains and be a mighty force for God in the world.

To say, “I believe in God” is to assert this faith that isn’t merely a blind, irrational act, but stepping out in confidence knowing that our God is trustworthy and He keeps His promises.

To prepare ourselves to go to Mass this weekend where Deacon Tom will be preaching at all the Masses (except the 5:30pm ), we invite you to watch the short video on the Flocknote email from Father Stephen Gadberry – a combat war veteran and American Ninja Warrior.

“Perhaps I am only a grain of sand, but every grain has its own place, its special role to carry out.”
—Venerable Francis Xavier Nguyen Van Thuan

Questions for Additional Reflection: 
Where is God asking me to have great faith?
Who are the examples of steadfast faith in my life?
St. Augustine said that “faith seeks understanding.”  What questions about the Catholic faith do you have right now?  

THIS COMING WEEK

• Thank you for praying! Father Don’s surgery went well. Please continue to keep him in your prayers for a full and safe recovery.
  -|- We give you praise Jesus for looking after our beloved pastor whom we love so much -|-.

• If you haven’t done so already, don’t forget to read up on the new guidelines. (It’s exciting for we are able to welcome everyone at full capacity!)

• Our Lady of Mercy Eucharist Adoration times are Monday and Thursdays 8:30am to 6pm. Wednesdays 8am to 12pm and at Magnify typically at the last Wednesday of the month from 7pm to 8:30pm. To sign-up for any of these times, click here.
• If these times do not work for you, Saints Peter and Paul have a 24 Hour Adoration Chapel which will re-open on Sunday 6/13th, you can sign up at this link or by calling their parish office 630-355-1081.

• High school teenagers, sign-up for the much-coveted Teen Mission Trip spot, there are a few openings left, sign up by 6/15. Do something extraordinary this summer; impact a community in a very real way.  Reach out to Dave Miserendino at the Youth Ministry office.

• The Grandparents Ministry will be meeting in-person on Tuesday 6/15 from 7pm to 8:30pm in Room 124. If you prefer to attend via Zoom, please connect with Jolene at jolenel@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org.

• Come out this Wednesday evening for a summer MAGNIFY, bring the children, invite your friends and neighbors to spend some time with Jesus; share what’s on your mind with Him.  Scriptural reflection by Father James, confessions and an evening of praise and worship lead by Josh Goodman; all good reasons to go to MAGNIFY.

• • AMA with Father James Part 2 is Friday 6/18th @ 7pm. Check out the trailer below.

• Submit your “great question” at this link
• Part 1 last month was illuminating and fun; from answering “Why does Fr. James use a different sized host than Fr. Don?” to “What do I do if a close relative/friend invites me to their same-sex ceremony?”   
• Did you miss Part 1 of the AMA with Father James? You can view it here or here.

• Bread for the World through your signed Offering of Letter and Bread members urge Congress to expand anti-hunger programs in response to the pandemic and increase funding for nutrition programs.  Watch this brief video to understand how your letter helps and what the organization does.
• In past years OLM parishioners have offered over 500+ letters. The letters you write will be given to the diocesan group that will meet later this month with our Illinois senators and representatives.  People can address the letter to Senator Durbin and/or Senator Duckworth and Representative Foster. Sample letters in English and Spanish are available.  A box will be available on the desk in the PLC lobby for the signed letters. Please return printed, signed letters to OLM next week.

• • Please see the below message from Bishop Hicks. We hope to see each and every one of you soon. The church is ready and your parish family here at Our Lady of Mercy can’t wait to see you!

LOOKING AHEAD

• Schedule to donate blood at this link on Saturday 6/19 from 8am to 12pm. Every donor will save up to 3 lives!
• While appointments are appreciated, walk-ins are welcome!
• You DO NOT NEED the Covid-19 vaccine in order to donate.
• You are also eligible to donate if you received a COVID-19 vaccine on or before 6/16.
• Please make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating.  Thank you!

• Please help the babies and their mothers and fathers who are facing the unexpected news of their unplanned pregnancy.
• Support the Our Lady of Mercy Respect Life Ministry annual Baby Bottle For Life Fundraising for Waterleaf Women’s Center from Mother’s Day (May 9, 2021) to Father’s Day (June 20, 2021).   http://www.fundeasy.com/m/5133322/

• The Fathers Day Collection for Diocesan Infirmed and Elderly Priests is 6/19 – 6/20. This annual collection helps meet the needs of our elderly, informed, and retired diocesan priests, especially those who have extraordinary medical expenses beyond what insurance can cover.  Please give generously to these second fathers in our lives at this link
• “The heart of Christ’s priests knows only two directions: the Lord and His people.”

  — Pope Francis, Jubilee of Mercy for Priests, June 3, 2016

  “It helps out with unusual expenses that a priest might encounter, like a huge dental bill or a hearing aid,” said Father John Balluff, episcopal vicar for clergy for the diocese.

  This second collection also helps to pay for repairs at the St. John Vianney Villa Priest Retirement Home in Naperville, an assisted living facility for retired priests. But we all know that few priests really retire, as they often fill in for a pastor who becomes sick or goes on sabbatical. They also celebrate daily and weekend Masses, hear confessions, perform funerals, celebrate weddings, and anoint the sick.

• Not sure what to get the father(s) in your life? Scroll to the end to see what “The Catholic Gentleman” recommends.

• Here’s your chance to join our excellent diocesan Bible school right here at this parish. The Biblical Institute offers an in-depth study of the Bible, from the Catholic point of view, presented by trained and experienced Catholic teachers.
  For information, go to: www.dioceseofjoliet.org/bidj
  Or call 815-221-6147.
  Biblical Institute Preview Event – Our Lady of Mercy
  In person event: Saturday 6/25 from 9am -10:30 am
  Zoom event: go to www.dioceseofjoliet.org/bidj

• Register at catholicsportscamps.org for the Catholic Baseball Camp for boys and girls ages 8-12. Fee is $150 (scholarships are available).
• Basic to advanced baseball skills and training. Women’s softball/baseball coach for girls. Daily Mass, Rosary, Adoration, Confession.

• We are excited to announce that OLM Vacation Bible School will be welcoming 100 students in person this summer!  Children, come on out 8/6 thru 8/6 from 9am to 12pm and embark on an epic quest through hidden ruins, ancient caves, and dense jungles.
• At Treasured VBS, kids dig into action-packed, faith-filled adventures. They’ll discover God’s greatest treasure isn’t diamonds, gems, or gold – it’s them! The deadline to signup is June 16th.  Details and registration are at this link.

• Did you get an email from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.

• We are looking for an intentional disciple of Jesus who will be the Associate Director of Family and Youth Evangelization and Catechesis for Grades 6-12. Please lift up in prayer who God is going to send to us and please let others know as well so as to cast the net wide for our search.
• Click here for details.

• Don’t forget to check out Father Don’s insightful weekly Bulletin article located here.

• If you have not done so already, please do consider supporting our efforts here at Our Lady of Mercy by supporting the Diocesan Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal (CMAA).
• The CMAA allows us, together, to do our part in building God’s kingdom here on earth.  Father Don and Bishop Hicks are asking us to join them in supporting the CMAA to help the poor and vulnerable, form our future shepherds, and spread the faith through our Catholic schools, faith formation programs in parishes, and programs for young adults.
• Our parish’s goal for the 2021 CMAA is $154,400, with 70 percent of any amount we raise over this goal returned to us for our use.
• If you wish to donate now, please click here https://bit.ly/2MOQHVY  Read the following report at this link https://bit.ly/3dd154X on how your gifts to the CMAA helps. For further details, please click here https://bit.ly/3jQxf7i
• Thank you for prayerfully considering supporting the 30 ministries and shining Jesus’ light brightly in our diocese.

• Our Online Giving is getting an upgrade to a newer, easier-to-use platform! If you currently give online, you should have received an email with instructions on how to log into the new system. Best of all, your existing payment and donation information will be migrated over so you will not have to set up your gifts again! Please reach out to the business office for any questions 630-851-3444.

• Please proceed here for the OLM Hispanic Ministry 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.

• Hooray, we are at full capacity! Because of this, we will only live stream the 10am Mass.
• For those who are not comfortable attending Mass in the Church, please continue to watch on your mobile device in your vehicle, where Holy Communion will be brought to you at the 10am Mass.
• We continue to seek creative individuals who are interested in joining our “Stream Team” to help.  It is fun, easy, and fulfilling to take part in and you’ll have the love, support, and thankfulness of the Livestream Community.
• If you are interested or know someone who would enjoy volunteering in this role, please connect with zara@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org

• How can we be praying for you today?
  There are times when life is overwhelming when all we have is questions. In those moments, hope can feel far away. The great thing about prayer is that it shifts our perspective toward the One who stands ready to listen. No matter what you’re facing, we’d love to pray with you. Submit your prayer requests at this link

• The overall goal of this team is to bring to life through communications our parish vision: to offer every person a life-changing encounter with Jesus, grow disciples and send them on mission.
• Volunteers that will be part of “The Messengers” team will be tasked with implementing the Communications, Social Media, and Online Engagement Strategy of Our Lady of Mercy.
• They will be trained and empowered to manage engaging communications pieces of our parish such as our emails (like this Weekly Update), and postings on all our Communications platforms (website, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter).
  They can also assist in creating social media content that builds relationships and community as well as other projects at the direction of the Communications Director.
  • Must either be a committed disciple of Jesus or open to being one
  • Needed skill sets
    • Must enjoy working with others towards common/shared goals and communicate well in a spiritually paced, engaging environment.
    • Some knowledge of Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and other emerging platforms.
    • Strong content writing/editing background.
    • Takes initiative and responsibility, a self-starter.
  • Desirable skill sets (but not necessary)
    • Some skills in graphic design. Photography, audio/video editing are assets.
    • Familiarity with best practices and analyzing analytics of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and other emerging platforms.
• Interested?  Have questions?  Know of someone that can be a “Messenger”? Connect with zara@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org, she would love to chat about the volunteer position over coffee, zoom, or phone call.

The group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints. Since February, they have grown to a roster of more than 50 souls from all over the Aurora, Naperville, and surrounding areas. Join them during the summer session for a wide variety of social activities (rock climbing, and rosary & volleyball are scheduled for June), all with the underlying purpose of cultivating holiness.

• Or let the young adult in your life know about Consuming Fire, they are going to go through a new series “Metanoia” on Tuesday evenings this summer from 7pm to 8:30pm.
• Connect them to their website at this link or with Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com
• See what they have been up to below.

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

• The group’s primary purpose is to help divorced or separated individuals looking to restore hope, find healing, and grow authentic friendships with other individuals who are in a similar situation.
• If this group is of interest to you or if you would like to know more, connect at the following. Don’t forget to let others know who may want to be part of this grow group.
  • Click here for more Information & Registration 
  • Connect with the group leaders (they are looking forward to hearing from you)
    Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
    Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
    John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com
    Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com

GROW YOUR FAITH

FORMED.ORG

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

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

EUCHARIST RESOURCES

Check out our “Eucharist Resources” page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives and the great Feast of Corpus Christi.

FREE CONFERENCES

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

REAL LIFE CATHOLIC

• St. Joseph’s faith and flight to Egypt with Dr. Scott Hahn and Fr. Don Calloway
• His steadfast virtues from Sister Josephine Garrett, Jason Evert and Dallas Carter
• How he can help us in our everyday lives from Beth Davis and Simone Rizkallah
• How Joseph is an unmatched example of a real life Catholic from Chris Stefanick

June 4, 2021 | Weekly Update

Are Catholics Cannibals?

asks Chris Stefanick from Real Life Catholic, he expounds further “Jesus told His disciples to eat His flesh and drink His blood. Was He crazy?! Are Catholics cannibals? The Feast of Corpus Christi is this coming weekend. I hope this video helps you to celebrate it more fully.”

Has it been a while since you’ve been to Mass?

Perhaps this Sunday at the Feast of Corpus Christi is a good turning point to make the decision to come back.  Be inspired by the brief 3-minute video below; there are compelling reasons to come back.

We pray you come to in-person Mass to “take and eat” and be united with Jesus at this most awesome and pivotal feast, Corpus Christi Sunday where Father James will be preaching. We also hope you join us at the Corpus Christi Procession after the 12pm Mass. 

Sign in ahead of time at this link.

LOOKING AHEAD

• Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce.
• The group’s primary purpose is to help divorced or separated individuals looking to restore hope, find healing, and grow authentic friendships with other individuals who are in a similar situation.
• If this group is of interest to you or if you would like to know more, connect at the following. Don’t forget to let others know who may want to be part of this grow group.
  • Click here for more Information & Registration 
  • Connect with the group leaders (they are looking forward to hearing from you)
    Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
    Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
    John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com

GROW YOUR FAITH

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

May 30, 2021 | Weekly Update

How can one God be in three persons?

We hope to see you at the Mass for Holy Trinity Sunday where the presider for each Mass will be preaching, or see you during the week at any of our gatherings or daily Mass.  Sign-in ahead of time at this link or at the door.

THIS COMING WEEK

• Let us be in prayer for our heroes; please join us on Memorial Day at the 9am Mass. We’re the land of the free because of the brave.

• St. John Paul said of Eucharistic processions: “Our faith in the God who took flesh in order to become our companion along the way needs to be everywhere proclaimed, especially in our streets and homes, as an expression of our grateful love and as an inexhaustible source of blessings” (Mane Nobiscum Domine, No. 18).
  And, Pope Benedict XVI said, “Corpus Christi processions allow us to “immerse [Christ], so to speak, in the daily routine of our lives, so that He may walk where we walk and live where we live.”
• We pray you will walk with Jesus at the procession that will begin after the 12pm Mass.
  • Special note to the children who had their First Communion last year and this year; come to the procession in your white dress or suit, paving the way for Jesus by ringing the bells and covering the path with flower petals.
• Connect with Shirley Staples for any questions and/or to help out at 630-815-5799 or shirleystaples@yahoo.com 

• Please help our brothers and sisters in need; sign up at this link for any of the items posted, or send funds via the Give page or checks payable to Our Lady of Mercy and note on the memo “Hesed House-PADS”. Thank you so much for your generosity.
  ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’— Matthew 25:40

• Respect Life 1st Friday Devotion on 6/4 from 8am to 2pm
  • We hope you can come out anytime from 8am to 2pm, to pray for the helpless, innocent unborn who can’t speak for themselves.  Pray in front of Planned Parenthood, at the public right of way access.   Connect with Lisa SanDiego for any questions (630) 258-0122 or sandiego_family@msn.com.    https://bit.ly/3yGSzmU
  • Confessions immediately following the 8am Mass
• Every 1st Friday (in addition to the 8am Mass), we will have a 12pm Mass.
• 1st Saturday 6/5 after the 8:30 am Mass is the First Saturday Devotion  
  • This devotion is one ot the principal points of the Fatima message.  It consists of the following, on 5 consecutive first Saturdays: Going to Confession, Receiving the Sacrament of Holy Communion, Praying five decades of the Rosary, and Meditating for 15 minutes on the mysteries of the Rosary. Find out the reasons why the five Saturdays from our Lord Jesus to Sister Lucia as well as additional details here.  We hope you incorporate this powerful devotion into your life. Please connect with Bonnie Ramirez 630-723-4289 for any questions.
  • Outdoor Confessions are dependent upon the weather. If it is raining heavily, Father James will hear Confessions in the Narthex.  If it is light rain where you won’t be drenched, he will hear Confessions outside.
    

• We are looking for an intentional disciple of Jesus who will be the Associate Director of Family and Youth Evangelization and Catechesis for Grades 6-12. Please lift up in prayer who God is going to send to us and please let others know as well so as to cast the net wide for our search.
• Click here for details.

   

  LOOKING AHEAD 

  Mobile Food Pantry on Weds 6/9

  • Please spread the word on the Mobile Food Pantry this month. Share the attached link. If you have a Facebook account, keep an eye for the upcoming Facebook post from our page and share it; this is an easy way to help someone you may be unaware that is in need of food that is in your network of friends or acquaintances.

  Let us be in Prayer on 6/10

  • Let us be in prayer on June 10th for our Father Don. He will be in the hospital for surgery to remove his thyroid.

  Another Pizza Party for a Cause at Little Pops Pizzeria on 6/10

  • Make it a pizza night on Thursday 6/10th!  Or rather, make it a pizza DAY! Proceeds benefit the Teen Mission Trip to the Twin Cities. Thank you to the Knights of Columbus Council #12005 for hosting.  What a great excuse to eat pizza “eat pizza for a good cause!”  Share this ad with others and support our Mission Trip teens.

  24 Hour Adoration Chapel at Saints Peter and Paul opens back up on 6/13

  • Our Lady of Mercy Eucharist Adoration times are Monday and Thursdays 8:30am to 6pm. Wednesdays 8am to 12pm and at Magnify typically at the last Wednesday of the month from 7pm to 8:30pm. To sign-up for any of these times, click here.
  • If these times do not work for you, Saints Peter and Paul have a 24 Hour Adoration Chapel which will re-open on Sunday 6/13th, you can sign up at this link or by calling their parish office 630-355-1081.

  Knights of Columbus Blood Drive 6/19

  • Schedule to donate blood at this link on Saturday 6/19 from 8am to 12pm. Every donor will save up to 3 lives!
  • While appointments are appreciated, walk-ins are welcome!
  • You DO NOT NEED the Covid-19 vaccine in order to donate.
  • You are also eligible to donate if you received a COVID-19 vaccine on or before 6/16.
  • Please make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating.  Thank you!

  Virtual Baby Bottles for Life Mother’s Day to Father’s Day 6/20

  • Help the babies and their mothers and fathers who are facing the unexpected news of their unplanned pregnancy.
  • Support the Our Lady of Mercy Respect Life Ministry annual Baby Bottle For Life Fundraising for Waterleaf Women’s Center from Mother’s Day (May 9, 2021) to Father’s Day (June 20, 2021).  http://www.fundeasy.com/m/5133322/

  A summer MAGNIFY Wednesday 6/16

  • Save the date for a summer MAGNIFY.

  AMA with Father James sometime in June

  • From answering “Why does Fr. James use a different sized host than Fr. Don?” to “What do I do if a close relative/friend invites me to their same-sex ceremony?” made for a fun and an illuminating AMA. Was your question one of the 13 Father James answered?  At this link is the recent AMA with a timestamp for each of the questions and topic-related links.
  • Keep an eye out for when we will have the next one sometime in June as we continue to answer all the questions that was submitted (10% was answered). Have more questions? Submit them at this link.

  Vacation Bible School (VBS) Coming this Summer! 8/2 – 8/6

  • We are excited to announce that OLM Vacation Bible School will be welcoming 100 students in person this summer!  Children, come on out 8/6 thru 8/6 from 9am to 12pm and embark on an epic quest through hidden ruins, ancient caves, and dense jungles.
  • At Treasured VBS, kids dig into action-packed, faith-filled adventures. They’ll discover God’s greatest treasure isn’t diamonds, gems, or gold – it’s them!  Details and registration are at this link.

  Don’t Get Scammed by Fake Fathers!

  • Did you get an email from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.

  Bulletin

  • Don’t forget to check out Father Don’s insightful weekly Bulletin articlelocated here.

  Supporting OLM through the CMAA

  • If you have not done so already, please do consider supporting our efforts here at Our Lady of Mercy by supporting the Diocesan Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal (CMAA).
  • The CMAA allows us, together, to do our part in building God’s kingdom here on earth.  Father Don and Bishop Hicks are asking us to join them in supporting the CMAA to help the poor and vulnerable, form our future shepherds, and spread the faith through our Catholic schools, faith formation programs in parishes, and programs for young adults.
  • Our parish’s goal for the 2021 CMAA is $154,400, with 70 percent of any amount we raise over this goal returned to us for our use.
  • If you wish to donate now, please click here https://bit.ly/2MOQHVY  Read the following report at this link https://bit.ly/3dd154Xon how your gifts to the CMAA helps. For further details, please click here https://bit.ly/3jQxf7i
  • Thank you for prayerfully considering supporting the 30 ministries and shining Jesus’ light brightly in our diocese.

  Regarding OSV Online Giving

  • Our Online Giving is getting an upgrade to a newer, easier-to-use platform! If you currently give online, you will soon be receiving an email with instructions on how to log into the new system. Best of all, your existing payment and donation information will be migrated over so you will not have to set up your gifts again! Keep an eye on your email for more information coming very soon.

  For the Hispanic Community

  • Please proceed herefor the OLM Hispanic Ministry 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.

  Stream Team Update

  • With the increased Church capacity of 600 people, we will only live stream the 10am Mass.  We will live stream additional Mass times if we find there are more than 600 people attending each Mass and will need to seat people in the PLC/gym area.
  • For those who are not comfortable attending Mass in the Church, please continue to watch on your mobile device in your vehicle, where Holy Communion will be brought to you.
  • We continue to seek creative individuals who are interested in joining our “Stream Team” to help.  It is fun, easy, and fulfilling to take part in and you’ll have the love, support, and thankfulness of the Livestream Community.
  • If you are interested or know someone who would enjoy volunteering in this role, please connect with zara@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org

  A Note from the Intercessory Prayer Ministry

  • How can we be praying for you today?
    There are times when life is overwhelming when all we have is questions. In those moments, hope can feel far away. The great thing about prayer is that it shifts our perspective toward the One who stands ready to listen. No matter what you’re facing, we’d love to pray with you. Submit your prayer requests at this link

  We’re looking for volunteers to join “The Messengers”

  • The overall goal of this team is to bring to life through communications our parish vision: to offer every person a life-changing encounter with Jesus, grow disciples and send them on mission.
  • Volunteers that will be part of “The Messengers” team will be tasked with implementing the Communications, Social Media, and Online Engagement Strategy of Our Lady of Mercy.
  • They will be trained and empowered to manage engaging communications pieces of our parish such as our emails (like this Weekly Update), and postings on all our Communications platforms (website, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter).
    They can also assist in creating social media content that builds relationships and community as well as other projects at the direction of the Communications Director.
    • Must either be a committed disciple of Jesus or open to being one
    • Needed skill sets
      • Must enjoy working with others towards common/shared goals and communicate well in a spiritually paced, engaging environment.
      • Some knowledge of Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and other emerging platforms.
      • Strong content writing/editing background.
      • Takes initiative and responsibility, a self-starter.
    • Desirable skill sets (but not necessary)
      • Some skills in graphic design. Photography, audio/video editing are assets.
      • Familiarity with best practices and analyzing analytics of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and other emerging platforms.
  • Interested?  Have questions?  Know of someone that can be a “Messenger”? Connect with zara@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org, she would love to chat about the volunteer position over coffee, zoom, or phone call.

  Grow Groups

  • We continue to launch Grow Groups, one group at a time.  In February, we launched the Consuming Fire Young Adultwhich has grown to be a community of about 40 young adults that are growing in their relationship with Jesus together living out discipleship through real relationships where there is authenticity, accountability, and accompaniment.  Let the young adult in your life know about Consuming Fire, connect them to their website at this link or with Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com
  • Launching Weds June 9th is Vine & Branches. Please see below!
  • 
  • What is Vine & Branches?
    • Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce.
    • The group’s primary purpose is to help divorced or separated individuals looking to restore hope, find healing, and grow authentic friendships with other individuals who are in a similar situation.
    • If this group is of interest to you or if you would like to know more, connect at the following. Don’t forget to let others know who may want to be part of this grow group.
      • Click here for more Information & Registration 
      • Connect with the group leaders (they are looking forward to hearing from you)
        Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
        Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
        John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com

  GROW YOUR FAITH

  FORMED.ORG

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

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

  FREE CONFERENCES

  In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.
• JUNE 4 – 6 EUCHARISTIC CONFERENCE

REGISTRATION for the virtual EUCHARISTIC CONFERENCE being held next week can be found by clicking here at this link as well as for the list of the amazing presenters. Be a part of a revival of love for the Eucharist in the Catholic Church

• JUNE 5 FRANCISCAN UNIVERSITY STEUBENVILLE CONFERENCE

REGISTRATION for the free livestreamed session of POWER and PURPOSE held on June 5th can be found by clicking here at this link.

• JUNE 5 AUGUSTINE INSTITUTE’S 2 HOUR BIBLE CONFERENCE

A Power-Packed two hours!  We’re excited to invite you to the next Augustine Institute Bible Conference! To prepare for the Feast of Corpus Christi, Dr. Brant Pitre, Dr. Mary Healy, and Dr. Tim Gray will uncover the sacramental mystery, power, and significance of the Holy Eucharist found in Sacred Scripture. Submit your questions early and join us for this two-hour virtual event on Saturday, June 5!

REGISTRATION for the free 2-hour virtual BIBLE CONFERENCE Saturday, June 5th from the Augustine Institute can be found here at this link.

May 22, 2021 | Weekly Update

Happy Birthday, Church!

This week we celebrate Pentecost and the unleashing of the Holy Spirit upon the Church!

At Pentecost, the Paschal Mystery was complete and the disciples were ready to become apostles and evangelize to the ends of the earth.  We are called to participate in this mission and be renewed by the Holy Spirit!

To help prepare our hearts for Pentecost Sunday, where Deacon Tom Logue will be preaching at the 8am and 5:30pm Masses, check out the Flocknote video reflection on Pentecost by Bobby Angel, Fellow of Parish Life and Renewal at the Word on Fire Institute.

Please don’t forget to sign in ahead of time at this link; as per Diocesan guidelines, we will still continue to register for contact-tracing purposes. (We will update you with any updated guidelines from the Diocese.)

THIS COMING WEEK

What will you ask Father James this Thursday 5/27th?

• AMA (Ask Me Anything) with Father James on Facebook & YouTube Live is at 7pm Thursday 5/27th, we hope to see you then.  Submit your questions ahead of time at this link https://bit.ly/3xEUfwU or post a question during the live stream.From “If we go to Mass on Saturday morning @ 8:30am and received Holy Communion, is it okay to receive Holy Communion on Saturday afternoon Mass @ 4pm?” to “Who was Father Jame’s favorite teacher at Benet?” or “What dish have you cooked for Father Don for dinner that he likes thus far?“

Did you get a chance to read the 5/11 and 5/15 Messages from Father Don?

• It touched on the governor’s 6/11th re-opening announcement and an update from our Diocese on the new Covid Protocols. You can check it out here (just scroll down to 5/15 and 5/11 updates)

LOOKING AHEAD 

Help our community, especially those that don’t know Jesus, see His Presence at Corpus Christi Procession on 6/6

• St. John Paul said of Eucharistic processions: “Our faith in the God who took flesh in order to become our companion along the way needs to be everywhere proclaimed, especially in our streets and homes, as an expression of our grateful love and as an inexhaustible source of blessings” (Mane Nobiscum Domine, No. 18).
  And, Pope Benedict XVI said, “Corpus Christi processions allow us to “immerse [Christ], so to speak, in the daily routine of our lives, so that He may walk where we walk and live where we live.”
• We pray you will walk with Jesus at the procession that will begin after the 12pm Mass.
  • Special note to the children who had their First Communion last year and this year; come to the procession in your white dress or suit, paving the way for Jesus by ringing the bells and covering the path with flower petals.
  • Men, would you like to help protect Jesus? Connect with Shirley Staples, she is looking for holders of the canopy (called baldachin), ushers, and other assistance.
• Connect with Shirley Staples for any questions and/or to help out 630-815-5799 or shirleystaples@yahoo.com 

Mobile Food Pantry on Weds 6/9

• Please spread the word on the Mobile Food Pantry this month. Share this link. If you have a Facebook account, keep an eye for the upcoming Facebook post from our page and share it; this is an easy way to help someone you may be unaware that is in need of food that is in your network of friends or acquaintances.

Another Pizza Party for a Cause at Little Pops Pizzeria on 6/10

• Make it a pizza night on Thursday 6/10th!  Or rather, make it a pizza DAY!  Proceeds benefit the Teen Mission Trip to the Twin Cities. Thank you to the Knights of Columbus Council #12005 for hosting.  What a great excuse to eat pizza “eat pizza for a good cause!”

24 Hour Adoration Chapel at Saints Peter and Paul opens back up on 6/13

• Our Lady of Mercy Eucharist Adoration times are Monday and Thursdays 8:30am to 6pm. Wednesdays 8am to 12pm and at Magnify typically at the last Wednesday of the month from 7pm to 8:30pm. To sign-up for any of these times, click here.
• If these times do not work for you, Saints Peter and Paul have a 24 Hour Adoration Chapel which will re-open on Sunday 6/13th, you can sign up at this link or by calling their parish office 630-355-1081.

Knights of Columbus Blood Drive 6/19

• Schedule to donate blood at this link on Saturday 6/19 from 8am to 12pm. Every donor will save up to 3 lives!
• While appointments are appreciated, walk-ins are welcome!
• You DO NOT NEED the Covid-19 vaccine in order to donate.
• You are also eligible to donate if you received a COVID-19 vaccine on or before 6/16.
• Please make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating.  Thank you!

Virtual Baby Bottles for Life Mother’s Day to Father’s Day 6/20

• Help the babies and their mothers and fathers who are facing the unexpected news of their unplanned pregnancy.
• Support the Our Lady of Mercy Respect Life Ministry annual Baby Bottle For Life Fundraising for Waterleaf Women’s Center from Mother’s Day (May 9, 2021) to Father’s Day (June 20, 2021). Donate at this link http://www.fundeasy.com/m/5133322/

Don’t Get Scammed by Fake Fathers!

• Did you get an email from (a fake) Father Don this past week? Please remember, Father Don and Father James DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards.  If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Don or Father James, please discard it and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID.

Bulletin

• Don’t forget to check out Father Don’s insightful weekly Bulletin article located here.

Supporting OLM through the CMAA

• If you have not done so already, please do consider supporting our efforts here at Our Lady of Mercy by supporting the Diocesan Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal (CMAA).
• The CMAA allows us, together, to do our part in building God’s kingdom here on earth.  Father Don and Bishop Hicks are asking us to join them in supporting the CMAA to help the poor and vulnerable, form our future shepherds, and spread the faith through our Catholic schools, faith formation programs in parishes, and programs for young adults.
• Our parish’s goal for the 2021 CMAA is $154,400, with 70 percent of any amount we raise over this goal returned to us for our use.
• If you wish to donate now, please click here https://bit.ly/2MOQHVY  Read the following report at this link https://bit.ly/3dd154X on how your gifts to the CMAA helps. For further details, please click here https://bit.ly/3jQxf7i
• Thank you for prayerfully considering supporting the 30 ministries and shining Jesus’ light brightly in our diocese.

Regarding OSV Online Giving

• Our Online Giving is getting an upgrade to a newer, easier-to-use platform! If you currently give online, you will soon be receiving an email with instructions on how to log into the new system. Best of all, your existing payment and donation information will be migrated over so you will not have to set up your gifts again! Keep an eye on your email for more information coming very soon.

For the Hispanic Community

• Please proceed here for the OLM Hispanic Ministry 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.
• Calling all Young Adults to Journeying Together an Inter-Cultural Conversation Thurs 5/27th from 7pm – 9pm. The Hispanic/Latino cultural family will share their community’s story and participants will learn and reflect on those realities and engage in intercultural discussions in response to what was heard and considering pastoral actions. Register at the following link.

Stream Team Update

• With the increased Church capacity of 600 people, we will only live stream the 10am Mass.  We will live stream additional Mass times if we find there are more than 600 people attending each Mass and will need to seat people in the PLC/gym area.
• For those who are not comfortable attending Mass in the Church, please continue to watch on your mobile device in your vehicle, where Holy Communion will be brought to you.
• We continue to seek creative individuals who are interested in joining our “Stream Team” to help.  It is fun, easy, and fulfilling to take part in and you’ll have the love, support, and thankfulness of the Livestream Community.
• If you are interested or know someone who would enjoy volunteering in this role, please connect with zara@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org

A Note from the Intercessory Prayer Ministry

• How can we be praying for you today?There are times when life is overwhelming when all we have is questions. In those moments, hope can feel far away. The great thing about prayer is that it shifts our perspective toward the One who stands ready to listen. No matter what you’re facing, we’d love to pray with you. Submit your prayer requests at this link

We’re looking for volunteers to join “The Messengers”

• The overall goal of this team is to bring to life through communications our parish vision: to offer every person a life-changing encounter with Jesus, grow disciples and send them on mission.
• Volunteers that will be part of “The Messengers” team will be tasked with implementing the Communications, Social Media, and Online Engagement Strategy of Our Lady of Mercy.
• They will be trained and empowered to manage engaging communications pieces of our parish such as our emails (like this Weekly Update), and postings on all our Communications platforms (website, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter).They can also assist in creating social media content that builds relationships and community as well as other projects at the direction of the Communications Director.
  • Must either be a committed disciple of Jesus or open to being one
  • Needed skill sets
    • Must enjoy working with others towards common/shared goals and communicate well in a spiritually paced, engaging environment.
    • Some knowledge of Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, and other emerging platforms.
    • Strong content writing/editing background.
    • Takes initiative and responsibility, a self-starter.
  • Desirable skill sets (but not necessary)
    • Some skills in graphic design. Photography, audio/video editing are assets.
    • Familiarity with best practices and analyzing analytics of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and other emerging platforms.
• Interested?  Have questions?  Know of someone that can be a “Messenger”? Connect with zara@olmercy.old.diocesanweb.org, she would love to chat about the volunteer position over coffee, zoom, or phone call.

Grow Groups

• We continue to launch Grow Groups, one group at a time.  In February, we launched the Consuming Fire Young Adult which has grown to be a community of about 40 young adults that are growing in their relationship with Jesus together living out discipleship through real relationships where there is authenticity, accountability, and accompaniment.  Let the young adult in your life know about Consuming Fire, connect them to their website at this link or with Matt Kubanda and Mary Rysavy rysavyme@gmail.com
• Launching Weds June 9th is Vine & Branches. Please see below!

• Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce.
• The group’s primary purpose is to help divorced or separated individuals looking to restore hope, find healing, and grow authentic friendships with other individuals who are in a similar situation.
• If this group is of interest to you or if you would like to know more, connect at the following. Don’t forget to let others know who may want to be part of this grow group.
  • Click here for more Information & Registration 
  • Connect with the group leaders (they are looking forward to hearing from you)
    Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
    Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
    John Frederick jdfredericj@icloud.com

Effective May 15, 2021 | NEW COVID PROTOCOL DIRECTIVES FROM THE DIOCESE OF JOLIET

On May 12, 2021, in response to the state of Illinois moving to the “bridge” phase of re-opening the Diocese issued new Covid protocols for parish churches to implement.  Here is a summary:

• The wearing of masks is still required while attending Mass and social functions

(On May 13, the CDC stated that the wearing of masks indoors is not required for people fully vaccinated.  Until the Diocese of Joliet adopts this, please still wear a mask)

• Church capacity for OLM is now 600 persons

The Dispensation from the requirement to attend Mass is still in place.

Online registration is still required.  Walk-ins are still required to sign in.

All doors of the church are open to enter and exit including the handicapped parking lot.

Hand sanitization is REQUIRED upon entering the church building.

All pews are open – arms-length distance is recommended between households.

For those who are not comfortable attending Mass in the church, the 10:00AM Mass will continue to be livestreamed to watch on a mobile device in your vehicle.  Holy Communion will be brought to your vehicle.

In October 2020, we installed the I-wave air-filtration system in the Church.  This system kills air-borne bacteria and viruses and operates continuously.

• Reception of Holy Communion

Those desiring to receive communion on the tongue will follow the procedures that are currently in place.  Be seated in the designated section and an usher will direct you to the communion station.

Those desiring to receive communion in the hand will come forward in procession as in the past to the 4 communion stations in the front of church.  An usher will spray your hands with sanitizer before you go forward to receive communion.  After receiving the host, step to the side, remove your mask and consume the Body of Christ, put your mask back on and return to your seat.

Communion from the cup is not an option at this time.

• Not Yet

Congregational singing

Altar Servers

Passing of collection baskets

Physical sign of peace

AND AS ALWAYS, IF YOU DO NOT FEEL WELL, YOU SHOULD NOT ATTEND SERVICES OR GATHERINGS

____

Sign-up for the Mass at this link

May 11, 2021 | A Message From Fr. Don….

As you know, our governor announced last week that barring a resurgence of COVID-19, the state could move to stage 5 of re-opening on June 11, which removes nearly all COVID restrictions.   For now, however, ALL protocols by the state and Diocese of Joliet are still in effect at our parish churches and facilities.  I will keep you informed when there are changes.

What the Diocese is doing……

On April 14, Bishop Hicks instructed pastors of all parishes to establish a “Reunite in Christ” task force.  Besides myself, Fr. James and Deacon Tom Logue, serving on the task force will be Doug McIlvaine, Zara Tan, Phil Zwick, Miroslava Manzanares, and Alex Baier.  Doug McIlvaine is chair of the task force.

The purpose of the task force is to dream and implement pastoral plans for when we can welcome everyone back to parish life without restrictions on the number of people who can attend and participate in parish programs and activities.  A primary task will be giving priority to returning to Sunday Mass when the Bishop re-instates the obligation to attend Sunday Mass. One of the aspirational goals we set in 2019 was and still is, to be a parish where everyone hungers to be nourished by the true presence of Christ in Word and Eucharist, giving priority to coming to Mass every Sunday.

The task force will also plan and set a date for a weekend festive celebration of fully reopening.

I will keep you apprised as plans are developed and when the Diocese changes any of the current COVID protocols. Thank you for your cooperation and patience during this long pandemic.

May 8, 2021 | Weekly Update

“No Greater Love than This” says Jesus….oh and it’s the 6th Week of Easter Weekly Update

“This is my commandment: love one another as I love you.  No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13)

In preparing our hearts to be ready for the Mass this weekend where Father Don is preaching and will be blessing all our wonderful Mothers, we hear of perhaps one of the most direct and summative lines of all Scripture.  The command to love one another (family, friend, enemy, and stranger alike) is tasked to all of us who dare call ourselves Christian, and here’s the thing, it ain’t optional.  “This I command you: love one another.” (John 15:17).

“Laying down” our lives might mean embracing the inconvenience of bearing a coworker’s burdens, dealing with an annoying stranger, or losing sleep because of a crying child. But these moments are little “schools” of love where our hearts are stretched so as to increase our capacity for love.

“It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you.” (John 15:16).  It should be oddly comforting that God believes us to be worthy to participate in the spread of the Gospel message, through our words and actions.  Because if God calls us to the task, it means He will equip us for the job.

Looking forward to seeing you at the Mass this weekend in-person (or join us at the live stream), sign in ahead of time here.   Check out the video on the Flocknote email that can help get our hearts ready for the Mass this weekend.

May 1, 2021 | Weekly Update

It’s the 5th Week of Easter Weekly Update and Jesus says “Remain in Me”

When plucked from a vine, a fruit or vegetable will live for a short while before starting to decay. As it is with us. We can live for a short while on the fumes of God’s grace when we neglect or turn away from Him, but in short order, we begin to falter and wither under our own strength.

Perhaps someone we know and love has cut themselves off from God and the Church. Have we cut them off as well?  Have we doubted the power of God’s grace to intervene in their lives?  The early disciples doubted and feared Saul (who became Paul) after his conversion, for he had been persecuting them and hunting them down. But they saw how the power of Christ had transformed Saul and he became one of the greatest evangelizers of the entire Gospel.  The question becomes, maybe it’s time to invite the person(s) that’s been cut-off back, you just never know what a simple invitation back to Mass or to any of our spiritual offerings can do (CRHP, Bible Studies, an upcoming Alpha, parish life here at OLM).

At the Mass this weekend, Jesus asks that we remain close to Him, for without Him we can do nothing and our earthly efforts will surely fail.  “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower” (John 15).  Listen to the 3-minute video on the Flocknote email that speaks of this further and can help us prepare our hearts for the Masses this weekend where we get to hear from Deacon Tom Logue as he preaches at each Mass; sign-in ahead of time here or see you online.  May crowning of our Blessed Mother takes place at the beginning of each Mass as well.

April 24, 2021 | Weekly Update

It’s the weekly update for the 4th Week of Easter and… “I Am the Good Shepherd,” Jesus says

He goes on further to say, “A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11). Check out the video on the Flocknote email that can help us prepare our hearts to go to Mass this weekend where the Deacons will be preaching.  Let us hear further what it means to truly love.  Yes, to love means to lay your life down for the good of the other person.  But this is far easier said than done; it’s difficult to prioritize other people or allow ourselves to be joyfully inconvenienced. But in dying to our own wishes and egos, we start to become self-gifts in imitation of the sacrifice of Jesus. In little and in large ways, we are called to love in imitation of Jesus Christ who reveals this inner dynamic of who God is: “God is love.” (1 John 4:16). Looking forward to seeing you this weekend in-person or online please don’t forget to sign in ahead of time here or at the door.