Around the Archdiocese
SPRED
Parishes Working Together
SPRED is a collaborative effort among the parishes in a local area. We all share a common vision – to welcome
children, teens, and adults with special needs into the worshipping and sacramental life of our parish
communities. To assure that these experiences are meaningful and enriching to the faith of our friends with
developmental disabilities, SPRED offers catechesis specifically tailored to their needs. Through shared
friendship, reflection on life rooted in scripture and prayer, these small communities grow together in faith as
they deepen their awareness of God and their personal relationship with Jesus. Where friends gather together
in love – the presence of Jesus is discovered, welcomed and embraced.
This opportunity is available to children (6-10) at St. Benedict Parish; teens (11-16) at St. Edward & Our Lady of Lourdes; young adults (17-21) St. Matthias at Transfiguration; and at Queen of Angels, St. Mary of the Lake & St. Gregory for adults (22+). St. Andrew Parish is presently trying to rebuild their SPRED Community for 11-16 year old teens. All of these groups are searching for new volunteers as they prepare to begin sessions this fall. People in this cluster of parishes have the option to participate in a SPRED community of their choosing according the age level and location or meeting schedule that is preferred. There will be a meeting hosted by St. Andrew Parish to offer information on the SPRED mission in general and tell you about the expectations for a SPRED volunteer. There is no need for experience with persons with disabilities or any special background or education. All training is provided by the SPRED agency for the comfort of our volunteers and to insure the quality of our program. Please – consider joining us for a simple gathering of conversation and hospitality to learn more about this very rewarding ministry. Parents of children with disabilities – please join us to be sure that your son or daughter’s name is on the waiting list for a Spred community.
Monday – July 21st at 7:30 PM
St. Andrew Parish Rectory
3546 N. Paulina
Should this meeting be at an inconvenient time for you, call Julia Hess at Queen of Angels Parish Center to set up a personal appointment: 773-539-3634 or Julia.spredcrw@sbcglobal.net
MEN’S RETREAT
Are you a man who is ready to go deeper into your spirituality this summer than a weekend retreat or Theology on Tap?
Join us for the Men's Rite of Passage, August 13-17th, with Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM. The program is a fiveday/ four night deeply prayerful and soulful experience that builds on the classic patterns of male initiation through simple and moving rituals and teaching. Each day includes group prayer, major teachings on central masculine spirituality themes, quiet time for reflection, and sharing in the context of a "home group."
This is not just another Catholic/Christian men's retreat, but five days of formal male initiation. These teachings on the "mysteries" and the accompanying rituals of Passover have met with an enthusiastic response in recent years, touching over 3,100 men worldwide.
For more information, contact Ed Duffy by e-mail at ed@icompass.org or register online at www.malespirituality.org.

The weekly speaker series begins on July 16 and continue Wednesday’s through August 6 in Heidenreich Hall at St. Benedict parish. All speakers begin at 7:30. This event will appeal to anyone who likes provocative discussion, appealing topics, great speakers and good fellowship.

















