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May 11, 2008 - Pentecost Sunday

Global Fest
Please join us May 17th at GlobalFest
All proceeds benefit the school

GlobalFest is Saturday, May 17. Join us at St. Matthias Transfiguration School for a fun, family festival to celebrate the ethnic diversity of our community. Each class studies a country or state during the year and presents it with food, cultural information, music and dance at the festival.

St. Matthias Transfiguration School
Global Fest
Saturday, May 17, 2008

Join us at St. Matthias Transfiguration School for this fun, family festival to celebrate the ethnic diversity of our community. Attend the GlobalFest Mass at 5 pm followed by the festival at 6 pm. Entrance wristbands, at the presale price of $10 for adults and $6 for children, are now available at the rectory and the school. Lotsa Loot raffle tickets are now on sale for $5. Four $250 prizes will be awarded. Please purchase the tickets from a school family or at the rectory.

For GlobalFest, each class studies a country or state during the year and presents it with food, cultural information, activities, music and dance. Norway, Vietnam, Brazil, Guatemala, Germany,. Morocco, Spain, and Jamaica as well as New York and Hawaii are featured this year.

The ‘Round the World Lounge features beer and themed drinks from around the world, Karaoke and a children's dance in the gym, and a fabulous silent auction with more than 70 items including: overnight stay at the Ritz Carlton, overnight stay at the Doubletree in Skokie, sailing for six on Lake Michigan, Golf for Four at Kemper Lakes, a six-course steak dinner for 10 in your home catered by Terry Tuohy, a Reserved Parking Space in the Church Parking Lot, Happy Hour Party for 99 at 41°N Latitude, a Moroccan-style table, a martini or margarita party for 20 hosted by the Krebs and children’s “hand” painted chairs.

Our Mission Statement

We are a Catholic community of two parishes. We commit ourselves to celebrate our diversity, to give thanks for and preserve our rich traditions, to share our resources and to build a more collaborative faith community.
For detailed instructions refer to John 6: 1-13

Two Parishes - One Faith Community
English - Spanish - Tagalog

Welcome to St. Matthias & Transfiguration of Our Lord Churches >>

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May 11 , 2008 (4.19 MB)

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A Letter From Father Terry

F., Terry Keehan

To the Great People of St. Matthias and Transfiguration,

This weekend we celebrate Pentecost and Mothers Day. The Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples at Pentecost to enable them to do things that they didn’t think they could. The Holy Spirit expanded and strengthened them to accomplish so much. It strikes me that most mothers have this experience almost every day. The following article expresses the challenges and triumphs of motherhood like few I have ever read. It was written by Pat Glunz who passed away recently. Her and her husband Jack have not only raised a great family but assisted us in the Lincoln Square community with many events through the family business, Louis Glunz Beer Inc. from Lincolnwood, Illinois. Please enjoy Pat’s reflections about motherhood which were first published in her parish bulletin at St. Francis Xavier, Wilmette, Illinois in 1978.

What Does It Mean To Be A Mother?
It means God has blessed a woman and given her the privilege of sharing in His miracle of creation, the beginning of the most important career a woman can pursue.

The Latin “gentrix” means, “she who begets, communicates life with her own life.” In the fulfillment of this career, a mother accepts the sacrifices, the self-denial and the responsibility of educating, that being a mother demands. And as in any career well done, she will receive the rewards of her hard work. What is the beginning like…It involves pain, sleepless nights, constant vigil and constant tiredness. It also involves the unspeakable joy of watching God’s perfect miracle grow before your very eyes- the knowledge of total dependence and self satisfying realization of being needed. Love is an easy word to understand at this time. It’s so simple and uncomplicated. To me the hardest part is the second phase, the education, the longest period. Rudyard Kipling said, “Give me the first ten years of a child’s life and I will make you welcome the rest; and of these ten years the first three count for six. As a child is, so will be the adult.” How does a mother do this? To a child it is simple: good is what pleases mother and what she permits. Bad is what displeases mother and what she forbids. In other words, she does this by her words and her example. Words are of prime importance, because they express notions and feelings; and a child’s notions and feelings depend largely on the spoken word she/he hears. In those first ten years, this is a demanding, but rewarding experience. The development of a child’s moral character, as well as, the mental development is a challenge. Then comes the reward—the blossoming of a child into an adult. These are the hard years for both mother and child. A mothers love and guidance is needed in a new and different way. It’s a love of trust built on those early foundation years. Trust tempered by common sense. The child remembers the lessons taught but the child/adult wants to question the basic premise. This is the time of humility for mothers. Suddenly from knowing everything in your child’s eyes, you know nothing. The home you so lovingly decorated is suddenly not good enough for your teenager’s friends. Or how about when that beautiful outfit your husband loves to see you in, suddenly gets the teenager’s look of “you’re going to wear that!” You smile and say “yes”, while your confidence crumbles, then you find the same teenager wearing it the next weekend. It is the example that triumphs. All the teaching in the world about principles of loyalty, generosity and purity is wiped out by the sight of one lie, one act of selfishness; of immodesty. When a mother has imprinted on the soul of her child the loyalty, generosity, purity and other virtues that fill her own soul she may rest assured the later vicious tendencies will never efface them. The child may go astray, but he or she will move in a curve which will of necessity bring them back one day to their starting point.

What then is the reward of a mother’s career? To see her child frown to mankind and womanhood, practicing the virtues she taught and practiced. Is it a hard career?—yes—but anything of worth is worth working hard for. A very wise mother showed me a copy of an article she carries with her to remind her that her children don’t always understand her career, but it’s the results that matter. It’s written by a mother who looks at life with love and a laugh, two important ingredients in being a mother. The author is Irma Bombeck and is entitled “Someday I’ll Tell My Children.”

“You don’t love me!” How many times have your kids laid that one on you? And how many times have you, as a parent, resisted the urge to tell them how much? Someday, when my children are old enough to understand the logic that motivates a mother, I’ll tell them: I loved you enough to bug you about where you were going, and with whom, and what time you would get home. I loved you enough to be silent and let you discover that your hand-picked friend was a creep. I loved you enough to make you return the Milky Way with a bite out of it to the drugstore and confess, “I stole this.” I loved you enough to stand over you for two hours while you cleaned your bedroom, a job that would have taken me 15 minutes.

I loved you enough to NOT make excuses for your lack of respect and bad manners. I loved you enough to ignore “what every other mother” did. I loved you enough to figure you would lie about the party being chaperoned but forgive you for it…after discovering that I was right. I loved you enough to let you stumble, fall and fail so that you could learn to stand alone. I loved you enough to accept you for what you are, not what I wanted you to be. But most of all, I loved you enough to say no when you hated me for it. That was the hardest part of all

Carta Del Padre Terry

Fr. Terry Keehan

A La Gente Maravillosa de San Matías y Transfiguración,

Esta semana celebramos Pentecostés y el Día de las Madres. El Espíritu Santo descendió sobre los discípulos en el día Pentecostés para ayudarlos a hacer cosas que no pensaban que podían hacer. El Espíritu Santo aumento y los fortaleció a lograr mucho. Me impresiona que casi todas las madres tienen esta experiencia casi todos los días. El siguiente articulo expresa los retos y triunfos de la maternidad como ninguno que he leído. Fue escrito por Pat Glunz quien falleció hace poco. Ella y su esposo Jack criaron una maravillosa familia y también nos asistieron con muchos eventos en la comunidad de Lincoln Square con su negocio familiar, Louis Glunz Beer Inc. de Lincolnwood, Illinois. Por favor disfruten de las reflexiones de Pat sobre su maternidad que fue publicada primero en el boletín de su parroquia en San Francis Xavier, Wilmette, Illinois en 1978.

¿Que Significa Ser Una Madre?
Significa que Dios ha bendito a una mujer y le ha dado el privilegio de brindar su Milagro de la creación, el principio de la carrera más importante que una mujer puede aspirar.

La palabra latina "gentrix" significa, "ella que engendra, comunica la vida con su propia vida." En el cumplimiento de esta carrera, una madre acepta los sacrificios, la abnegación y responsabilidad de educar, que se requiere de una madre. Y como en cualquier carrera bien hecha, ella recibirá los premios de su trabajo duro. Como es el principio... Involucra dolor, noches sin dormir, vigilia constante y cansancio. también requiere la felicidad indecible de ver el milagro perfecto crecer ante tus propios ojos - conocimiento de dependencia total y la realización de satisfacción personal de ser necesitada. Una palabra fácil de entender en este momento es amor. Es tan simple. Para mi lo mas difícil es la segunda fase. Rudyard Kipling dijo, "Dame los primeros diez años de la vida de un niño y te recibiré el resto, y de esos diez años los primeros tres cuentan por seis. Como es de niño, así será como adulto." ¿Como hace esto una madre? Para un niño es simple: lo bueno es lo que complace a la madre y lo que ella permite. Lo malo es lo que no la complace y lo que prohíbe. En otras palabras, ella hace esto con sus palabras y con su ejemplo. Las palabras de importancia, porque expresan nociones y sentimientos; y las nociones y sentimientos de un niño dependen mucho en las palabras que escuchan. En los primeros diez años, esto es exigente, pero una experiencia que recompensa mucho. El desarrollo del carácter moral, así como, el desarrollo mental es un reto. Después viene la recompensa -- el florecimiento de un niño a un adulto. Estos son años muy difíciles para madre e hijo. El amor y la orientación de una madre se necesita da manera nueva y diferente. Es un amor de confianza creado en esos años de la primera etapa. La confianza moderada con un sentido común. El niño recuerda las lecciones pero el niño/ adulto quiere poner en duda el recinto básico. Esto es una temporada de humildad para las madres. De ver todo en los ojos de tu hijo de repente no sabes nada. La casa que decoraste con tanto amor de repente no es suficiente para los amigos de tu hijo adolescente. O como cuando tu hijo te mira diciendo, "¡te vas a poner eso!" cuando te pones el vestido bello que le en endad en ti misma se disminuye, después encuentras la misma muchacha vestida así la próxima semana. Es un ejemplo de triunfos. Todas las enseñanzas del mundo sobre los principios de lealtad, generosidad, y pureza se borran en vista de una mentira, un acto de egoísmo; de inmodestia. Cuando una madre ha estampado en el alma de su hijo la lealtad, generosidad, y pureza y demás virtudes que llenan su propia alma, ella puede descansar segura de que las malas tendencias nunca se borraran. El niño puede extraviarse, pero el o ella seguirán en una curva que por necesidad los llevaran un día al principio.

¿Que es el premio para la carrera de madre? Ver a su hijo llegar a ser hombre y mujer, practicando virtudes que les enseño y practico. ¿Es una carrera difícil? – si – pero cualquier cosa de valor vale la pena. Una madre inteligente me mostró una copia de un articulo que siempre carga con ella para recordarle que sus hijos no siempre entienden su carrera, pero lo que mas importa son los resultados. Esta escrito por una madre que ve su vida con amor y risa, dos ingredientes importantes para ser madre. La autora es Irma Bombeck y se llama “Algún Día le Diré a Mis Hijos.”

“No me quires!” ¿Cuantas veces tus hijos te han dicho eso? ¿Y cuantas veces tú, como madre, has resistido decirles cuanto? Algún día, cuando mis hijos crezcan como para entender la lógica que motiva a una madre, les diré: Te quise lo suficiente como para molestarte cuando salías, y con quien, y a que horas llegarías. Te quise tanto como para callarme y dejarte descubrir que el amigo que escogiste no es bueno. Te quise tanto como para hacer que le devolvieras a la farmacia el chocolatín que mordiste diciéndoles, “Yo me robe esto.” Te quise tanto como para pararme frente a ti por dos horas hasta que limpiaras tu cuarto, algo que hubiera tomado 15 minutos. Te quise tanto como para NO tener excusas por tu falta de respeto y mal educación. Te quise tanto como para ignorar “lo que las otras madres” hicieron. Te quise tanto como para saber que me mentirías de que la fiesta tendría adultos pero perdonarte porree so… después de descubrir que yo estaba en lo cierto. Te quise tanto como para dejarte caer, para que aprendieras a pararte solito. Te quise tanto como para aceptarte como eres, aunque no fuera como yo quería que fueras. Pero mas que todo, te quise tanto como para decirte que no aunque me odiaras por eso. Eso fue los más difícil de todo.

School and Religious Education News

Global Fest

GlobalFest is Saturday, May 17. Join us at St. Matthias Transfiguration School for a fun, family festival to celebrate the ethnic diversity of our community. Each class studies a country or state during the year and presents it with food, cultural information, music and dance at the festival.

St. Matthias Transfiguration School
Global Fest
Saturday, May 17, 2008

Just one week until GlobalFest

GlobalFest is Saturday, May 17. Join us at St. Matthias Transfiguration School for this fun, family festival to celebrate the ethnic diversity of our community. Attend the GlobalFest Mass at 5 pm followed by the festival at 6 pm. Entrance wristbands, at the presale price of $10 for adults and $6 for children, are now available at the rectory and the school. Lotsa Loot raffle tickets are now on sale for $5. Four $250 prizes will be awarded. Please purchase the tickets from a school family or at the rectory.

For GlobalFest, each class studies a country or state during the year and presents it with food, cultural information, activities, music and dance. Norway, Vietnam, Brazil, Guatemala, Germany,. Morocco, Spain, and Jamaica as well as New York and Hawaii are featured this year.

The ‘Round the World Lounge features beer and themed drinks from around the world, Karaoke and a children's dance in the gym, and a fabulous silent auction with more than 70 items including: overnight stay at the Ritz Carlton, overnight stay at the Doubletree in Skokie, sailing for six on Lake Michigan, Golf for Four at Kemper Lakes, a six-course steak dinner for 10 in your home catered by Terry Tuohy, a Reserved Parking Space in the Church Parking Lot, Happy Hour Party for 99 at 41°N Latitude, a Moroccan-style table, a martini or margarita party for 20 hosted by the Krebs and children’s “hand” painted chairs.

Please join us May 17th at GlobalFest. All proceeds benefit the school.

Did You Know—New York (Pre-K 3 and Pre-K 4)

With over 8.2 million residents within an area of 322 square miles (830 km²), New York City is the most densely populated city in the United States.

In 2005, nearly 170 languages were spoke in the city and 36% of its population was born outside the United States.

New York City has over 28,000 acres (113 km²) of municipal parkland and 14 miles (22 km²) of public beaches.

Though not usually associated with hurricanes, New York City is susceptible to them, most notably the 1821 Norfolk and Long Island hurricanes which flooded southern Manhattan and the New England Hurricane of 1938 which brushed the eastern end of the city.

New York City is home to some of the nation’s—and the world’s—most valuable real estate. On July 2, 2007, 450 Park Avenue was sold for $510 million, about $1,589 per square foot ($17,104/m²), breaking the record for an American office building.

School Registration

Registration is underway for the school. We’ve added a new Prek-3 class! Please help spread the word! Tuition is $4,600 per year for the elementary and $4,950 per year for the Preschool. Tours are available with an appointment. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Discounts for more than one child. Call Deb Bukovy for more information, 773-784-0999 x26.

Scholarship for incoming 5th graders

A special scholarship is available for students entering 5th grade in 2008. Inquiries may be directed to Principal Sandria DeSapio at 773/784-0999 x23.

Open House

St. Matthias Transfiguration School will host an Open House, Thursday, May 22, from 9 am to 11 am. Please come see the school, all are welcome.

CCD REGISTRATION 2008-2009

Registration for the 2008-2009 CCD year will take place beginning in June!

FIRST COMMUNION PICTURES

The group pictures that were taken outside before each of the First Communion masses are now available to be picked up from the rectories. Please go to the church where your child made his/her First Communion. Once again, congratulations to you and your families!

Announcements & Upcoming Events

Are You a Young Shakespeare?

Do not suffer the slings and arrows of a secret gift. Absent thee from anonymity awhile and draw thy pen to write an essay.

The Ravenswood Catholic Young Adults, an organization of residents mostly in their 20s and 30s, is sponsoring an essay contest for high school students. All are eligible to participate who attend St. Benedict High School, attend one of the RCYA member-parishes or whose parent(s) are parishioner(s) in an RCYA memberparish (St. Benedict, Our Lady of Lourdes, St. Matthias, Queen of Angels or Transfiguration of Our Lord).

Choose one of the following topics and compose a 250 - to 500-word essay:

  1. “Have you had an unexpected change or conflict in your life recently? Describe what happened and how it affected you. Provide concrete detail. Were other people involved and who were they? What was the resolution, if any, and what other changes do you expect as you look to the future?”

  2. "Name a person in your life—whether family member, friend, teacher, spiritual leader or someone else— who has had a big impact. How did this person influence you and why? Be specific. What is your assessment of how your relationship with him or her has changed, if at all? Do you expect a difference in your future because of him or her and why?"”

E-mail your essay in a Word document—with .doc appendix to rcya_chicago@yahoo.com. Include your name, phone number and affiliation (whether you are student at St. Benedict High School or what parish you or your parent(s) belong to). Entries will be judged by Craig Barner, an RCYA member and veteran journalist; John Schmitz, also an RCYA member and Chicago Public High School teacher and freelance writer; and Fr. Terry Keehan, pastor of St. Matthias. The decision of the judges is final.

SENIOR FRIENDSHIP CLUB

Luncheon
Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Meet in front of the Church at 10:30 am

FLEA MARKET

St. Matthias/Transfiguration is already planning the annual flea market. This year it will be a two day event on Sept. 13th and 14th. We are looking for vendors who would like a space. This is a great way to get your items out there to sell. Call Mary at 773/671-1934.

iCompass

"What Do I Want My Legacy to Be?" In our 20s and 30s, most of us probably didn’t give much thought to our mortality. We worked hard, played hard - the future seemed far ahead of us, hard to comprehend. Now on occasion we find ourselves thinking - maybe fretting - am I on the right path? Join us on Thursday, May 15 from 7-9pm in the Chapel as speaker Fr. John Boivin from Holy Name Cathedral helps us forget about the usual, worldly signposts and consider, where do I want to be, how do I get there, and what do I do when I encounter that big, scary pothole? We’ll consider a biblical way to think about the excitement, possibilities and fears that can accompany middle adulthood - wherever we find ourselves in this wonderful journey called life. Suggested donation: $10 includes food/ beverages. Sponsored by iCompass (formerly Charis2), Ignatian spirituality for adults 35 and up. Visit www.icompass.org for more info or call Ed Duffy 773-281-0371.

WIN A 2008 NISSAN VERSA!
Drawing has been extended until June 15th
Enter your chance to win!

Tickets: $10 each (Buy 5, 6th free)
Ultra Low Emissions
Fuel Efficient 32 mpg Highway
$15,450 Invoice Value
Red Hatchback Automatic

2nd Prize: $1,000.00
3rd Price: $500.00

Drawing will be on Father's Day June 15th

To print out form to enter raffle click here>>

Please Remember in Your Prayers

    
Those Who Are Ill:

Dimas Amaro
Nomi Arceta
Wilma Baumgartner
Ken Crocco
Betty Doleza
Daniel Fornalewski Jr
Andrew Garcia
Michael Gallagher
Susan Hawel
Jan Hussar
Margaret Kelleher
Colette Mikrut
Stanley Mikrut

Cynthia Ruiz
Marian Ryan
Joan Salzman
Hildegard Schniedermeier
Coleman Sullivan
William Sullivan
Yolanda Taba
Elpidio Tomembang
M/M Norman Torres
Rebecca Vergara
Tessie de la Vina
Ted Yabuta,
Patricia Ziga

Remember Our Troops in Your Prayers

Many of our young soldiers serving our country far away from home in unfamiliar surroundings. The conflict in the Middle East is still unresolved and our young men and women are asked to stay under very dangerous conditions. Please say special prayers for those serving our nation, to soothe their homesickness and loneliness and bring comfort to their families, especially those from our community including:

Julius Cavira
Douglas Chambers
Michael Gibbons
Daniel Grisius
Karen Ellarde McCuaig
Christopher Lahown
Sonny Pesek
William K. Sullivan
Anthony Talley

Reflections on Our Faith

Invest just five minutes a day, and your faith will deepen and grow - a day at a time.

Look up the daily passages from the New American Bible online at www.usccb.org/nab/bible/index.html.

Download Take Five for Faith by clicking on the date below:

Week starting Sunday, May 11, 2008

Sunday now available in Spanish! DOMINGO, 11 DE MAYO DE 2008
Invierte sólo cinco minutos al día, y tu fe se intensificará y crecerá—un día a la vez.


SUNDAY MAY 11, 2008
SOLEMNITY OF PENTECOST

Feel the power

When the disciples gathered for the “first” Pentecost, the stage was set for something dramatic to happen. The Jewish feast of Pentecost was a harvest festival but also the celebration of God’s covenants with the Israelites, especially Moses receiving the law at Mt. Sinai. So when the roaring wind of the Spirit swept in, it seemed to be coming all the way from the breath of God that swept over the waters at the creation of the world. And the gift of tongues undid the post-Tower of Babel confusion: now, many languages, but everyone understands. In that first Pentecost God gifted the church with God’s presence, with signs of a new covenant and a renewal of creation that would go out to the whole world. Catch that Spirit today.

TODAY’S READINGS: Acts 2:1-11; 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13; John 20:19-23

"And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind."

EN ESPAÑOL

DOMINGO, 11 DE MAYO DE 2008

SOLEMNIDAD DEL PENTECOSTÉS

Siente el poder

Cuando los discípulos se reunieron para el “primer” Pentecostés, el lugar estaba preparado para que algo dramático sucediera. La fiesta judía del Pentecostés era una celebración de la cosecha pero también la celebración del convenio de Dios con los israelitas, especialmente Moisés recibiendo la ley en el Monte Sinaí. Así que cuando el viento rugiente del Espíritu barrió, pareció venir del aliento de Dios que barrió sobre las aguas en la creación del mundo. Y el don de lenguas deshizo la confusión post-Torre de Babel: ahora, muchos lenguajes, pero todos entienden. En ese primer Pentecostés Dios regaló a la iglesia con la presencia de Dios, con señales de un nuevo convenio y una renovación de la creación que saldrían a todo el mundo. Toma hoy ese Espíritu.

LECTURAS DE HOY: Hechos 2:1-11; 1 Corintios 12:3b-7, 12-13; Juan 20:19-23

"Y de repente del cielo vino un sonido como la ráfaga de un viento fuerte."

MONDAY, MAY 12
FEAST OF NEREUS AND ACHILLEUS, MARTYRS

Not in words only, but deeds

The New Testament Letter of James is not without contention in Christian history. Whatever its authorship, its purpose is clear: to remind us of what is expected in the daily living of those who belong to Christ Jesus. James encourages those who bear trials—perhaps not unlike Nereus and Achilleus, ancient and otherwise unknown martyrs whom we celebrate today. The oppression that most interests James, however, is that which divides the rich and poor, an injustice no Christian should stand for. James is all about faith in action. Sadly, the divide between rich and poor is as true today as ever, even in our own country, and just as wrong.

TODAY’S READINGS: James 1:1-11; Mark 8:11-13

"The testing of your faith produces perseverance."

TUESDAY, MAY 13
FEAST OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA

Good to see you!

In a wonderful book called Our Lady of the Lost and Found, by Diane Schoemperlen, which Mary lovers should not miss, Our Lady appears to a modern-day unsuspecting Protestant woman. “It’s me, Mary,” she says. “Mother of God.” Not getting a reaction, Our Lady winsomely continues introducing herself with a litany of names by which she’s been known throughout history. Finally, the narrator has the presence of mind to answer: “Hello.” Some of us might do no better. Those who have reported apparitions of Mary have often had a hard time upholding their end of the conversation. Prepare by starting the conversation today.

TODAY’S READINGS: James 1:12-18; Mark 8:14-21

"Are your hearts hardened? Do you have eyes and fail to see? Do you have ears and fail to hear?"

WEDNESDAY, MAY 14
FEAST OF MATTHIAS, APOSTLE

Like winning the lottery

Awareness of our vocation doesn’t arrive in cookie-cutter fashion. Some of us always knew what we were born to do, and others discover it along the way. One young girl knew she wanted to be a speech therapist when she saw a soap opera character play the role. An encounter with an enthusiastic teacher can lead to a life in education. A visit to an art museum can awaken the creative urge, or a lifelong hobby can become a business venture. Matthias became the 13th apostle by a casting of lots. Keep your eyes open; vocation will find you.

TODAY’S READINGS: Acts 1:15-17, 20-26; John 15:9-17

"I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete."

THURSDAY, MAY 15
FEAST OF ISIDORE

Food for thought

“Eating is a moral act,” says the National Catholic Rural Life Conference (www.ncrlc.com), an organization that “applies the teachings of Jesus Christ for the social and economic development of rural America with responsibility for the care of God’s creation.” By providing spiritual support, education, and advocacy, the NCRLC helps rural people shape their own destinies and lead lives of dignity. As we honor Isidore, a Spanish farmer of simple means remembered for his generosity with those less fortunate, today is a good day to take a look at the U.S. Catholic bishops’ 2003 pastoral letter on food and farm issues, For I Was Hungry and You Gave Me Food.

TODAY’S READINGS: James 2:1-9; Mark 8:27-33

"Has not God chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom?"

FRIDAY, MAY 16

A world away

The news is full of stories of people in positions of power who have misused their status for personal advantage, and so it’s easy to dismiss as “not intended for me” Jesus’ famous question to his followers, what profit is there for one to gain the whole world and forfeit their life? But the “whole world” is a relative term, and we have all sought it at various times—whether that world is money, influence, or the admiration of our family. Any time we let the ends justify the means, we are seeking to gain the whole world. In what ways have we sought to “gain the whole world” and what has been lost in the pursuit? What small change can we make today to rebalance our priorities?

TODAY’S READINGS: James 2:14-24, 26; Mark 8:34-9:1

"For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for the sake of the gospel will save it."

SATURDAY, MAY 17
FEAST OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

Knowing the Beloved

The Catechism of the Catholic Church has this whopping statement to make about Mary: “The Marian dimension of the church precedes the Petrine” (no. 773). In other words, she’s bigger than the pope and has more primacy than Peter. And she, like the Father, can speak of her beloved Son and the need for us to listen to him. Mary knew Jesus in her body just as we know Jesus in our own bodies through the mystery of the Eucharist. From within his words still speak to us when we study the gospels. Wouldn’t today be a good day to listen to what he has to say?

TODAY’S READINGS: James 3:1-10; Mark 9:2-13

"From the cloud there came a voice, 'This is my Son, the Beloved; listen to him!' "

Contributors: Father Paul Boudreau, Alice Camille, Daniel Grippo, Father Larry Janowski, Ann O'Connor, Sean Reynolds, Joel Schorn, and Patrice J. Tuohy

©2008 by TrueQuest Communications, L.L.C. PHONE: 800-942-2811; E-MAIL: mail@takefiveforfaith.com; WEBSITE: www.takefiveforfaith.com. Licensed for noncommercial use. All rights reserved. Scripture quotes come from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.

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Womenshare

Presents
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Join us as
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President and Medical Director, Northshore Sleep Medicine
Diplomate American Board of Internal Medicine
American Board of Sleep Medicine
Official Spokesperson-American Academy of Sleep Medicine

discusses Insomnia, Insomnia Treatment Options, Excessive Daytime Sleepiness (EDS ) in Adults and Children and Sleep Disorders in Women of All Ages.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

7:30 PM

Admission Is Free – Bring Your Friends!

The St. Matthias School Hall
4920 N. Claremont Avenue
(1 block east of Western-just north of Ainslie)

FREE PARKING ONE BLOCK NORTH OF AINSLIE

What is Womenshare?
Women committed to personal growth, fulfillment of body, mind & soul, and empowerment in our role in our community.
Send questions/comments to womenshare@att.net

May 4, 2008 - The Ascension of the Lord


He was lifted up, and
a cloud took him
from their sight.
Acts 1:9

Se fue elevando a la
vista de ellos, hastaque
una nube lo ocultó
a sus ojos.
Hechos 1:9

Our Mission Statement

We are a Catholic community of two parishes. We commit ourselves to celebrate our diversity, to give thanks for and preserve our rich traditions, to share our resources and to build a more collaborative faith community.
For detailed instructions refer to John 6: 1-13

Two Parishes - One Faith Community
English - Spanish - Tagalog

Welcome to St. Matthias & Transfiguration of Our Lord Churches >>

Download This Week's Bulletin

May 4 , 2008 (1.62 MB)

Click on the link above to view, print and download this week's bulletin and be updated on all of our churches' happenings. In order to view the bulletin, you need Adobe Reader, which is free software available at this link.

Letter from Father Terry

F., Terry Keehan

To the Great People of St. Matthias and Transfiguration,

We celebrate the Feast of the Ascension this weekend. Traditionally this feast was reserved for a Thursday and at certain times the Bishops of North America give us the option to move the celebration to the weekend which we did this year. We will also have May Crownings this weekend at ALL Masses at BOTH Parishes. Our CCD and St. Matthias Transfiguration School Children will assist us in making a prayerful presentation to Mary who we acknowledge as Queen of many aspects of our church. These are two important aspects of the Easter season and may our liturgies this weekend be representative of our belief that Jesus Ascended into heaven and that Mary holds such an important place in salvation history.

One of the most uplifting things about The Easter Season is the hope and excitement of new life that it brings. Jesus moved through suffering and death to new life in the Resurrection. New life can be experienced in so many ways and the fact that spring is here in Chicago helps us to see new life in the form of grass, buds and warmer weather that is particularly welcomed after a long cold winter. Through our Stewardship efforts, St. Matthias and Transfiguration Parishes have experienced new life because so many of you have shared your TIME, TALENT and TREASURE to strengthen our community. This has been particularly evident in the past several months. Since we began the Stewardship program St. Matthias has seen a 25% increase in weekly collections and 151 parishioners signing up to participate in various ministries. Transfiguration has seen a 10% increase in weekly collections and 8 parishioners have signed up to be a part of various parish ministries. I thank all of you who have increased your contributions to our parishes by giving of your TIME,TALENT and TREASURE. Particularly in the area of weekly giving, the new life that we are experiencing will assist us in building a strong future.

That strong future is also based on continuous efforts to cut administrative costs and at the same time try to be more of service and more efficient. Technological advancements will help us a great deal in this area and part of our administrative changes will include updating our office services through the assistance of the J.S. Paluch Company who has developed new computer programs that will provide more accurate tracking of collections, registering new parishioners and keeping track of the records of existing parishioners.

I want to thank Deacon Roland Merced, Sol Anderson and our many Novena Sponsors for making the Divine Mercy Celebrations so prayerful. They were also able to generate a generous $1,000 donation to Transfiguration parish. Many thanks.

Our Annual Global Fest will be on Saturday, May 17 beginning with a festive, multi ethnic Mass at 5 pm at St. Matthias. If you would like to be a part of this special liturgy by marching in the procession, carrying a flag and possibly wearing any ethnic costume or outfit, or participate by doing reading, bringing up gifts or any other participation, please call either rectory to let us know.

St. Matthias Transfiguration School continues to grow. We are opening a new 3 year old Pre-School Program next year to compliment the current 3 and 4 year old program. We are also holding a special gathering for any families with a child who will be entering 5th grade in the Fall. This gathering will take place on Wednesday, May 14 at 7 pm at our school located at 4820 N. Claremont. Our Principal Sandria DeSapio and I will be present to give a tour of the school and to answer any questions that you might have. We have generous, needs based and other scholarships available and you will be able to find out more information on that evening or simply call St. Matthias Transfiguration School at 784-0999. If any of you who are current parishioners know of families who might be interested in the school, please personally invite them to attend this gathering or to contact the school.

Carta Del Padre Terry

Fr. Terry Keehan

A La Gente Maravillosa de San Matías y Transfiguración,

Esta semana celebramos la Fiesta de Ascensión. Tradicionalmente esta fiesta solo era los jueves y a veces los Obispos de Norte América nos dan la opción de pasar esta celebración para el fin de semana como lo hicimos este año. Este fin de semana también tendremos las Coronaciones de Mayo en TODAS las Misas en AMBAS Parroquias. Nuestros niños de CCD y de la Escuela de San Matías Transfiguración nos ayudaran a hacer una presentación a la Virgen quien reconocemos como Reina en todos los aspectos de la iglesia. Estos son dos aspectos importantes de la temporada de la Pascua y ojala la liturgia de este fin de semana sea representativo en nuestra creencia de que Jesús Ascendió al cielo y que Maria es muy importante en la historia de la salvación.

Una de las cosas mas animantes de la Temporada de la Pascua es la esperanza y el entusiasmo que trae con la vida nueva. Jesús pasó por el sufrimiento y la muerta a una vida nueva en la Resurrección. La vida nueva se puede sentir en varias maneras y ya que llego la primavera a Chicago podemos ver la vida nueva en forma de pasto, flores, y un clima mas caluroso que es muy bienvenida después de un invierno largo. Con nuestros esfuerzos de Administración, las Parroquias de San Matías y Transfiguración han sentido vida nueva porque muchos de ustedes han brindado su TIEMPO, TALENTO, y TESORO para fortalecer nuestra comunidad. Esto especialmente se ha visto en los pasados meses. Desde que empezamos nuestro programa de Administración San Matías ha visto un aumento de 25% en la colecta semanal y 151 feligreses se han anotado a participar en varios ministerios. Transfiguración ha visto un aumento del 10% en la colecta semanal y 8 feligreses se han anotado a ser parte de los ministerios. Les agradezco a todos que hayan aumentado en su contribución a nuestras parroquias prestando su TIEMPO, TALENTO, y TESORO. Especialmente en dar semanalmente, la vida nueva que estamos sintiendo nos ayudara a construir un futuro mas fuerte.

Nuestro Festival Anual Global será el sábado, 17 de mayo empezando con una festiva, Misa multi-étnica a las 5 PM en San Matías. Si les gustaría ser parte de desta liturgia especial caminando en procesión, llevano una bandera, o quizás poniéndose un disfraz, vestido, o algún otro traje típico, o leyendo una lectura, llevando las ofrendas, o cualquier otra participación, por favor avísennos en cualquiera de las dos rectorías

Ese futuro fuerte también esta basado en los esfuerzos continuos de cortar costos administrativos y también ser más serviciales y eficientes. Los avances tecnológicos nos ayudaran muchísimo y parte de los cambios administrativos incluirán actualizando nuestros servicios de oficina con la ayuda de la Compañía J.S. Paluch que ha desarrollado nuevos programas de computador para rastrear mas precisamente las colectas, registrar a feligreses nuevos, y rastrear los registros de feligreses actuales.

Quiero agradecerle al Diacono Roland Merced, Sol Anderson, y nuestros Patrocinadores de la Novena por hacer las Celebraciones de la Divina Merced tan bonitas. También dieron una donación muy generosa de $1,000 a la Parroquia de Transfiguración. Muchas gracias.

La escuela de San Matías Transfiguración sigue creciendo. El próximo año abriremos un Programa Pre- Escolar para complementar al programa actual de niños de 3 y 4 años. También tendremos una reunión especial para cualquier familia con hijos que entraran al 5to grado en el otoño. Esta reunión será el miércoles, 14 de mayo a las 7 PM en la escuela en el 4820 N. Claremont. Nuestra Directora, Sandria DeSapio y yo estaremos presentes para dar un tur de la escuela y contestar cualquier pregunta que tengan. Tenemos generosas becas de acuerdo a la necesidad para usted y podrá obtener más información esa noche o simplemente llame a la Escuela de San Matías Transfiguración al 784- 0999. Si alguno de ustedes que son feligreses actuales y conocen a familias que pudieran estar interesados en la escuela, por favor invítenlos personalmente a que asistan a esta reunión o a que llamen a la escuela

School and Religious Education News

Global Fest

GlobalFest is Saturday, May 17. Join us at St. Matthias Transfiguration School for a fun, family festival to celebrate the ethnic diversity of our community. Each class studies a country or state during the year and presents it with food, cultural information, music and dance at the festival.

St. Matthias Transfiguration School
Global Fest
Saturday, May 17, 2008

Just two weeks until GlobalFest

GlobalFest is Saturday, May 17. Join us at St. Matthias Transfiguration School for this fun, family festival to celebrate the ethnic diversity of our community. Each class studies a country or state during the year and presents it with food, cultural information, music and dance. Norway, Vietnam, Brazil, Guatemala, Germany,. Spain, and Jamaica as well as New York and Hawaii are featured this year. You’ll find a entertainment, a beer garden, Karaoke and food and drinks from around the world.

Attend the GlobalFest Mass at 5 pm followed by the festival at 6 pm. Entrance wristbands, at the presale price of $10 for adults and $6 for children, are now available at the rectory and the school. Lotsa Loot raffle tickets are now on sale for $5. Four $250 prizes will be awarded. Please purchase the tickets from a school family or at the rectory.

Did You Know—Brazil (3rd Grade)

Most Brazilians are Roman Catholic. There is a famous statue named Christ the Redeemer that towers above the city of Rio de Janeiro.

There are about 20,000 soccer teams in Brazil. It is the only country that has won the World Cup five times!

Brazil’s most famous festival is Carnival which starts on the Sunday before Lent.

Sao Paolo is Brazil’s biggest city, but Rio de Janeiro is its most famous. Brasilia is the capital.

The Amazon Rain Forest covers a large area of Brazil

School Registration

Registration is underway for the school. We’ve added a new Pre-K-3 class! Please help spread the word! Tuition is $4,600 per year for the elementary and $4,950 per year for the Preschool. Tours are available with an appointment. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Discounts for more than one child. Call Deb Bukovy for more information, 773-784-0999 x26.

Scholarship for incoming 5th graders

A special scholarship is available for students entering 5th grade in 2008. Inquiries may be directed to Principal Sandria DeSapio at 773/784-0999 x23.

Lil’ Mustangs Summer Camp— Registration extended

Ages 3-6 are invited to be a part of our first Summer Camp, June 9-July 3. Open to all. Children will have a full-day of learning with Art, Music, Spanish and Physical Education offered each day. There will be one field trip per week. Half-day camp available for 3-4 year olds. For details, see www.values4life.com.

Math Garden

Thanks to everyone who has helped with our Math Garden. Watch the work-in-progress at the South Side of the school.

Announcements & Upcoming Events

WIN A 2008 NISSAN VERSA!

Tickets: $10 each (Buy 5, 6th free)
Ultra Low Emissions
Fuel Efficient 32 mpg Highway
$15,450 Invoice Value
Red Hatchback Automatic

2nd Prize: $1,000.00
3rd Price: $500.00

Drawing will be on Mother's Day May, 11th

To print out form to enter raffle click here>>

Dominic Joseph McGee
Dominic & Rachel McGee

Liam Sean Alexander
Matthew & Courtney Alexander

Mary Margaret Grivakis
Steven Grivakis & Shirley Ann Weisenthal

William Baier Zirbel
Stephen & Patricia Zirbel

Clancy Joseph Rogers
Timothy & Jan Rogers

Grant Michael Maloney
Patrick & Stephanie Maloney

Max Patrick Maloney
Patrick & Stephanie Maloney

HIGH SCHOOL HONOR ROLL

(3rd Quarter)

Nicole Marie Figueroa
Lynnae N. Racette
John Frederick Miller
Michael J. Garcia
Alejandro Ponce
Michael Juanino Badillo
Heather Obmann
Amanda Avalos
Francisco Avalos
Jessica Munsef
Sean Thomas Keil

Chicago Cubs Game Beyond the Ivy Rooftop

Sunday May 18, 2008-1:20 pm
$135 per person
Food & Drinks
Bus transportation to and from Gateway to Learning
4925 N, Lincoln Avenue Chicago, Illinois
Contact: Jim Jablonski-775-1033

News & Events from Transfiguration...

Misang Tagalog Core Group Invites Everyone

On Sunday, May 18th, 2008 at 5:00 PM everyone is invited to the 8th year anniversary of the Tagalog Mass here at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church. There will be a “Flores de Maria” procession at 6:00 pm with Hermanos and Hermanas, Sagalas, Boy Participants and Images of the Blessed Mother after the Mass. A reception will follow at the Church Hall afterwards. For more information please call Father Rene Pareja - tel. no. 561-7953.

PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDAR

May 4: May Crowning
Crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary in all masses today

May 11: Mother’s Day
New Car Raffle
2008 Catholic Charities Appeal

May 17: Global Fest at St. Matthias
Come and celebrate the ethnic and Cultural diversity of St.Matthias/Transfiguration School
Tickets are available at the Rectory
$ 10: Adults; $ 6: Children

May 18: 8th Year Anniversary of
Misang Filipino and “Flores de Maria” Procession

The DIVINE MERCY PRAYER GROUP OF TRANSFIGURATION CHURCH would like to express our sincerest and heartfelt gratitude to all our devotees and sponsors for your continued prayers, devotions, cooperation and support for a successful and devout Feast Day celebration and Divine Mercy Nine Hours Vigil and Nine Days Novena. Also our big thanks to Father John J. Rudnik for officiating the Holy Mass and to Deacon Roland Merced, our Spiritual Director. Our total donation is $1,000.00.

Juzz Dance

Do you want to learn how to dance the Swing, Cha-cha,Boogie, Tango, Waltz, Ballroom and Line Dancing?
Come and Join Us
“JUZZ DANCE”
Transfiguration Hall
Every Sunday from 3 pm –8pm
$ 7.00 (with snacks)

Please Remember in Your Prayers

    
Those Who Are Ill:

Dimas Amaro
Nomi Arceta
Wilma Baumgartner
Ken Crocco
Betty Doleza
Daniel Fornalewski Jr
Andrew Garcia
Michael Gallagher
Susan Hawel
Jan Hussar
Margaret Kelleher
Colette Mikrut
Stanley Mikrut

Cynthia Ruiz
Marian Ryan
Joan Salzman
Hildegard Schniedermeier
Coleman Sullivan
William Sullivan
Yolanda Taba
Elpidio Tomembang
M/M Norman Torres
Rebecca Vergara
Tessie de la Vina
Ted Yabuta
Patricia Ziga

Remember Our Troops in Your Prayers

Many of our young soldiers serving our country far away from home in unfamiliar surroundings. The conflict in the Middle East is still unresolved and our young men and women are asked to stay under very dangerous conditions. Please say special prayers for those serving our nation, to soothe their homesickness and loneliness and bring comfort to their families, especially those from our community including:

Julius Cavira
Douglas Chambers
Michael Gibbons
Daniel Grisius
Karen Ellarde McCuaig
Christopher Lahown
Sonny Pesek
William K. Sullivan
Anthony Talley

Reflections on Our Faith

Invest just five minutes a day, and your faith will deepen and grow - a day at a time.

Look up the daily passages from the New American Bible online at www.usccb.org/nab/bible/index.html.

Download Take Five for Faith by clicking on the date below:

Week starting Sunday, May 4, 2008

Sunday now available in Spanish! DOMINGO, 4 DE MAYODE 2008
Invierte sólo cinco minutos al día, y tu fe se intensificará y crecerá—un día a la vez.


SUNDAY, MAY 4, 2008
SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER/THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD

The torch has been passed

Whether or not we’re asked to believe that in the celebration of the Ascension of the Lord Jesus literally levitated to the clouds, we can still understand the imagery. We’ve seen film taken from rockets as the launch pad grows smaller and gradually we see more and more of the earth, even to its entirety. The higher you go, the more is within your range of view. So also the message of Christ begins in a tiny country 2,000 years ago, but its purpose and effect go out, wider and wider, to all the world. How? The angels charmingly tease the disciples: “Why are you standing there looking at the sky?” In other words, “You who are church, you who are the body of Christ on earth: Get going. You’ve got work to do.” Christ is no longer here in his flesh, but Christ is here in yours.

TODAY’S READINGS: Acts 1:12-14; 1 Peter 4:13-16; John 17:1-11a/Ascension: Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:17-23; Matthew 28:16-20

"You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem . . . to the ends of the earth."

EN ESPAÑOL

DOMINGO, 4 DE MAYO DE 2008

SÉPTIMO DOMINGO DE PASCUA/LA ASCENSIÓN DEL SEÑOR

Se ha pasado la antorcha

Si se nos pidiera o no creer que en la celebración de la Ascensión del Señor Jesús literalmente levitó hacia las nubes, aún podemos entender la imágen. Hemos visto película tomada desde cohetes mientras la plataforma de lanzamiento se hace más pequeña y gruadualmente vemos más y más de la tierra, hasta su totalidad. A mayor altura, hay más dentro de tu campo de visión. Así también el mensaje de Cristo comienza en un país pequeñito hace 2,000 años, pero su propósito y efecto van, extendiendose más y más, hacia todo el mundo. ¿Cómo? Los ángeles encantadoramente bromean con los discípulos: “¿Por qué están allí parados viendo el cielo?” En otras palabras, “Ustedes que son la iglesia, ustedes que son el cuerpo de Cristo en la tierra: Avancen. Tienen trabajo que hacer.” Cristo ya no está aquí en su propia carne, pero está aquí en la de ustedes.

LECTURAS DE HOY: Hechos 1:12-14; 1 Pedro 4:13-16; Juan 17:1-11a/Ascensión: Hechos 1:1-11; Efesios 1:17-23; Mateo 28:16-20

"Serán mis testigos en Jerusalén … hasta el fin del mundo."

MONDAY, MAY 5
EASTER WEEKDAY

Empty or full?

What is Saint Paul’s problem? He seems to be splitting hairs in Acts when he insists that the baptism rendered by John the Baptist isn’t as good as the baptism in Jesus’ name. But remember: John baptized folks for the sake of repentance. This emptied you of former sins. Meanwhile, the baptism of Jesus fills us with his Spirit. Jesus once warned about the danger of sweeping your house clean of demons and leaving it vulnerably empty. It’s never enough to get rid of the bad. We’ve got to embrace the good. Open your heart to the Spirit of goodness.

TODAY’S READINGS: Acts 19:1-8; John 16:29-33

"Paul said to them, 'Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?' "

TUESDAY, MAY 5
EASTER WEEKDAY

Worldly wisdom

In various faith circles you will hear the call to be “in the world but not of it.” What does being in the world suggest to you? Perhaps it evokes images of our mortality, our limitations, the fact that we all fall under the laws of nature. Or perhaps it evokes images of overreaching materialism, of the desire for worldly possessions. But might the words also lead us to ponder the incarnate (literally, “enfleshed”) nature of our faith and our God? No other tradition brings the divine and the human together in quite the same way as Christianity does, where the two realities coexist in one person. Perhaps this is what it can mean to be “in the world but not of it.”

TODAY’S READINGS: Acts 20:17-27; John 17:1-11a

"And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world . . . ."

WEDNESDAY, MAY 6
EASTER WEEKDAY

And the work goes on

At his death, Mexican revolutionary Pancho Villa said, “Don’t let it end like this. Tell them I said something,” a hope to be remembered by at least a memorable word. As Easter continues to echo in 2008, we have not only noble words and mighty deeds by which to remember the Risen One, but a monumental task because he did not wish to leave only what he said and did, but that the Father’s work continue through our own hands. He had been sent; he sends us—perhaps with memorable words or deeds of our own but assuredly with the task of loving one another. If we do, his transforming love will not end.

TODAY’S READINGS : Acts 20:28-38; John 17:11b-19

"As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world."

THURSDAY, MAY 9
EASTER WEEKDAY

See how they smile

“I am he as you are he as you are me and we are all together.” So goes the opening line of the Beatles hit “I Am the Walrus.” Who’s to know if “the eggman” is an Easter reference or if John is the walrus? But the verse bears an uncanny resemblance to the Lord’s words in the gospel: “I in them and you in me, that they may be . . .” together! Togetherness is a sweet goal; it is the joy of relationships, family, and community. It is the unity of the Holy Spirit poured out at Pentecost. Pray for the love of God and you might be the walrus!

TODAY’S READINGS: Acts 22:30; 23:6-11; John 17:20-26

"And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one."

FRIDAY, MAY 10
EASTER WEEKDAY

The God of second chances

The story of Saint Peter is one of the most fascinating in the New Testament. He veered between misunderstanding and understanding, denial and faith, but always came through in the end. He got second chances and took advantage of them. Having breakfast with the risen Jesus and the other disciples, he had the opportunity to reverse his earlier three denials of knowing Christ when Jesus asked him—three times—if Peter loved him. To each of Peter’s professions of love, Jesus responded with “feed my sheep, tend my lambs”: Jesus the good shepherd was telling Peter to be the same for the community. Despite life’s failures, God always holds out the offer of return. Be like Peter and accept it.

TODAY’S READINGS: Acts 25:13b-21; John 21:15-19

"Jesus said to Peter, 'Simon son of John, do you love me?' "

SATURDAY, MAY 11
EASTER WEEKDAY

Limited options

We only have one choice as disciples: Follow Jesus. We can whine and rail and question and doubt, but in the end our task remains the same: Follow Jesus. What does it mean to follow Jesus? To be willing to give our lives for the sake of others. It sounds extreme, but most of us do this every day as we care for our families, serve in our communities, and provide dedicated work on the job. Giving of yourself doesn’t require anything in return. So nothing can stop the process. No waiting around for gratitude or favors or comparing who got what. Just follow Jesus.

TODAY’S READINGS: Acts 28:16-20, 30-31; John 21:20-25

"Jesus said to Peter, 'If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!' "

Contributors: Father Paul Boudreau, Alice Camille, Daniel Grippo, Father Larry Janowski, Ann O'Connor, Sean Reynolds, Joel Schorn, and Patrice J. Tuohy

©2008 by TrueQuest Communications, L.L.C. PHONE: 800-942-2811; E-MAIL: mail@takefiveforfaith.com; WEBSITE: www.takefiveforfaith.com. Licensed for noncommercial use. All rights reserved. Scripture quotes come from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible.

Ravenswood Catholic Young Adults

Ravenswood Catholic Young Adults

We are a group of Catholic adults centered in the Ravenswood community who provide service, spiritual and social outreach to build God's kingdom within our hearts and the community. We include, but are not limited to, Catholics in their 20s and 30s, married and single, of the Ravenswood area parishes St. Benedict’s, St. Matthias, Transfiguration of Our Lord, Our Lady of Lourdes and Queen of Angels.

For more information and to sign up for our newsletter check out: WWW.RCYACHICAGO.ORG.

Upcoming RCYA Events...

6:30 Mass Ministry: RCYA is looking for people to help with 6:30 Mass at St. Benedict as lectors, Eucharistic ministers and greeters/ushers. If you are interested, contact Stephanie at misstephanie76@ yahoo.com or fill out the form in this publication and leave it with an usher. No experience needed, trainings will be held after Mass on May 4.

Organizational Meetings: Our next monthly organizational meeting will be held Sunday, April 27. We meet at Resi's Bierstube, 2034 W. Irving Park Rd. following 6:30 p.m. Mass at St. Benedict--or around 7:30 p.m. at Resi's. All are welcome. Your ideas on improving the organization and volunteer spirit are needed. Unless otherwise specified, the meetings are the fourth Sunday of the month. Contact RCYAChicago@yahoo.com for more information.

Happy Hour: The social hour will be held after 6:30 p.m. Sunday Mass at St. Benedict will be starting on May 4. Come meet us for drinks at O'Donovan's, 2100 W. Irving Park Rd. Happy Hour will be held the first Sunday every month thereafter. Contact Karla at RCYAChicago@yahoo.com or (773) 618-9100 for more information.

Young Adult Bible Study: The RCYA young adult Bible study meets on the second and fourth Fridays of each month from 7:30 to 9 p.m. For further information, contact Jamie Basso at jamiebasso@yahoo.com or 773-509-1642.

Pizza Social: Our 2nd Sunday pizza social will be held on May 11 after mass at St. Benedict in the basement following 6:30 Mass. Suggested donation is $5 to help cover costs plus an item for the Common Pantry. If you are interested in helping setup before Mass or bringing a dessert, contact Megan Moser at meganmoser@yahoo.com.

Softball Tailgate Party: To kick off our 2008 Softball season we are having a tailgate party on Saturday, May 31 at 3 p.m. at K’s Dugout, 1930 W. Foster Ave. You don’t need to be signed up for softball to attend but you do need to be 21. Cost is an item for the Common Pantry for those signed up for softball or $5 plus and item for the Common Pantry for everyone else. Contact Karla if you have questions or would like to help out, RCYAChicago@yahoo.com or (773) 618-9100. RSVP via Evite available on the website so that we are sure to have enough food for everyone.

16” Softball: RCYA softball league is non-competitive and social. Our home field is Winnemac Park at the corner of Damen and Ainslie avenues. The cost is only $50 monitor the RCYA Web site, www.rcyachicago.org, for details on sign-up. Batter up! Contact Emily with questions at rcyasoftball@yahoo.com.

Car Raffle

WIN A 2008 NISSAN VERSA!

Tickets: $10 each (Buy 5, 6th free)
Ultra Low Emissions
Fuel Efficient 32 mpg Highway
$15,450 Invoice Value
Red Hatchback Automatic

2nd Prize: $1,000.00
3rd Price: $500.00

Drawing will be on Mother's Day May, 11th

To print out form to enter raffle click here>>

Friends of the Grape

July 2008

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