The Parish Connection

Volume 1 Issue 1 St. Mary’s Parish October 2016

InsideInside this this Issue Issue Words from Fr. Dana

Welcome to this first ful. Your feedback is welcomed. Words from Fr. Dana 1 edition of the “The Parish My first three month here has been very “Living in the Kingdom of God 1 Connection” newsletter. rewarding, as I get to know more people, The purpose of the news- CCD News especially the children. They are miracles 3 letter is to help keep the from God! Sister Doris and our parish secre- parish "connected" by Race for Education News 3 tary Amy have been a great help and support bringing news about our for me in learning the ins and outs of the Words From the Principal 4 church, school, and our parish life and in making me feel at home. Catholic faith directly into the homes of St. Meet Our School Staff 5 My mission as your pastor is to love and Mary's parishioners. Each registered family serve you as Jesus Christ would, if he was What is Happening… 6 or individual will receive a newsletter. Our here in person. I pray that the graces of the plan is to published the newsletter four times “A Promise Being Kept” 7 Sacrament Holy Orders will help me in my a year, more or less matching the liturgical mission. I'll do my best to build upon the seasons of Advent/Christmas (November), Heart Warming Story 9 foundation laid by the former pastors of St. Lent/Easter (February), Ordinary Times Mary's. This is a great parish, and I'm look- Liturgical Events 10 (May), and Ordinary Times (August). ing forward to serving you for many years to [Obviously, this first newsletter is out of se- Remembering Prayer Service 10 come. Please pray for me as I continue to quence but will be in sync after the next pray for you. Fun Page 11 newsletter, which we are planning to publish the second week of December.] We hope that Life Happenings 12 Father Dana this newsletter will be informative and use-

Living in the Kingdom of God (by Fr. Dana Clark)

Jesus Christ is a King, and his king- move us to do good and that purify our tions of the Cross, the Easter celebra- dom is the Kingdom of God. And, what souls are part of this experience of living tions. We didn’t have school on Holy is the Kingdom of God? The Kingdom in the Kingdom of God. Thursday or Good Friday, but I remem- of God is a spiritual reality. It is, essen- ber as a boy going to the celebrations. I As I thought about living in this tially, a “spiritual” way of living our remember walking to church on Good spiritual kingdom, I reflected back on lives. In heaven we will fully experience Friday with some of my brothers and my life, my spiritual growth, my spiri- this “spiritual” way of living our lives in sisters – Mom was busy at home with tual journey, my living in this Kingdom. the Kingdom of God. We can, however, the babies and Dad had to work, so we It seems like a long journey beginning as begin living in the Kingdom of God went on our own. I’m not sure if we a young boy, passing through adoles- now, here on earth. had to go, but I think we wanted too. cence, and finally entering adulthood. There was some excitement–the walk to Living in this Kingdom while on Being born in 1952, I experienced the the church, the anticipation of the ser- earth involves, first of all, living out the Mass prior to Vatican II. I remember vice. two great commandments to love God serving the Latin Mass, having to learn and to love our neighbor. It involves, and memorize the Latin responses. I I remember serving funeral Masses. living out the beatitudes (being humble, remember practicing, going over and (I really liked that because you got out gentle, kind, merciful, peaceful); It in- over the responses. I never liked having of school and made $5.00 – which was a volves receiving the sacraments and to memorize things, so it wasn’t totally lot of money back then). I was a little participating in the Church’s liturgies enjoyable. But there was some excite- concerned about seeing the person lying and devotions (especially the Mass); It ment too. It was exciting to be part of in the coffin. Not really afraid, but con- involves seeking to know, love and the Mass--Perhaps not totally under- cerned that the person might just sit up serve God. So, we can choose to live in standing it, but being captured by the and say something. I knew the person (and experience) the Kingdom of God mystery that was there. now – as we live our lives on earth. I remember the devotions, the Sta- (Continued on page 2) Those graces and spiritual gifts that

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(Continued from page 1) front door. As I began to pass by, one of like mystery was lost, but the sense of a the dogs (a big German shepherd) came presence and an adult like mystery was was dead, but if Jesus rose from the charging. It was probably around 7:30 there. a time of peace, and a gaining of dead, perhaps this person may rise up in the morning, streets deserted, every- spiritual strength. I started going to too. [I wasn’t really afraid; I just didn’t one probably still in bed. And here I daily Mass sometime in the mid-80’s as I know what I would say to them if they was, all alone, faced with a charging felt a certain peace and received a cer- woke up.] I liked the incense, the can- dog. I suppose the normal reaction tain strength to face the world each day. dles, the holy water, the smell of the would be to try to run away and start I share these reflections, because we wine, the statues – all those sacramen- screaming. I wasn’t taught what to do do not only live in a physical world, but tals. All those visible things that added when a dog charges, and so it must have we are also part of a spiritual world. We to an unspoken mystery. been divine intervention that gave me experience the spiritual through the the insight. What I did was to stand The change after Vatican II for me physical. We can live in the Kingdom of perfectly still, showing no fear (actually (as a boy) wasn’t major—a little differ- God while on earth and Jesus Christ is I was scared to death inside). To my ent, but the awe of the Mass and devo- our King. surprise the dog stopped, turned tions remained—the priest now facing around and went back to sitting in front The Mass is an experience of the the people, the responses now in Eng- of the house. However, if I moved a lit- spiritual world. The movements, the lish, but the rest seemed (to me) to be tle it would come charging again. So I gestures, the readings, the Eucharist, the pretty much the same. I do remember stood there not knowing what to do. music are all meant to draw us deeper that pre-Vatican II only the priests could Not realizing it, I probably did the right into the mystery of God (deeper into the touch the Sacred Host and vessels. thing. Divine wisdom, perhaps? mystery of Jesus his Son). It is meant to There was a certain mystery to the draw us closer to God. Eucharist as a child –knowing that there I had been confirmed in the 2nd was something different and special grade, so perhaps that spiritual gift of We experience the divine many because it was treated differently and so wisdom kicked in. If I ran, I’m sure the other times in our lives as we live the reverently. dog would have pounced on me, and I way of the Kingdom. I believe that I may not be here today. So, what is a boy experienced the spiritual through the When I was really young (probably of ten to do? He can’t scream, because it attack by that dog when I was a boy. As 5 or 6) I remember seeing people go up may incite the dogs. There was no safe I reflect upon this incident, it was proba- to communion and kneel along the com- place to run. So, I stood there like a bly divine intervention that protected munion rail. A server with a paten and statue. I don’t know how long I stood me. I had to trust an inner inspiration the priest with the sacred hosts would there, but it must have been a long time that seemed to be contrary to the normal go to each person. Not knowing the pur- because Dad got worried and came reaction – to run away. pose of the server with the paten, I felt searching for his lost son. My hero (my sorry for him, because he seemed to be We have a tendency to get caught Dad) came to the rescue. Dad opened offering the people something, but they up in worldly things. We need to regain the door to the van. I knew I could make always took something from the priest. I the sense of awe and mystery. Our lit- it to van before the dog would catch me didn’t realize the paten was empty and urgy, especially the Mass, is meant to (only about 10 yards to safety). So I ran meant to catch the host if it fell. I re- express the mystery, to provide us with and jumped in. I was safe. member thinking to myself that when I a spiritual experience. It is meant to up- go to communion I would take what- Later, I remember going to high lift us as we participate in the celebra- ever the server was offering the people! school. It was a Catholic High School – tion. an all boys school. During one of my Some of the sense of mystery as a We human beings live in two study halls, we had the option of going child was perhaps loss as I grew up and worlds – a physical world and a spiri- to Mass. I’m not sure why I went. As I changes were introduced, but the over- tual world. Within this the spiritual think back I realize that I found it was all mystery still remained. It wasn’t a world we can choose, while on earth, to more peaceful than sitting in the class- major adjustment to me. live in the Kingdom of God – a spiritual room. Perhaps, not realizing the pres- reality where Christ is King. Dad (a pre-Vatican II convert) was ence of Christ that was there that made very faithful and devoted to the Church, it a place of peace. Let us invite Christ our King into often going to daily Mass. If there was our hearts so that we can live in his I finally made it to adulthood (at the no school I would serve, especially on Kingdom as we live our lives here on age of 18). I never thought about skip- Saturday mornings. I remember one earth. ping Mass as an adult. As I reflected on Saturday morning Dad dropped me off that I wonder: Did I go out of habit? Did to serve a 6:30 a.m. Mass. I was to walk I go because I was obliged to under the home. Mom was in the hospital having penalty of mortal sin? Why was it im- another baby so dad was in charge and portant? It doesn’t seem important to had to return home. I begin to walk many today. As I looked back I realized home as normal (about ¾ of a mile). As there was something there – that at- I passed in front of the one the houses, tracted me. Perhaps some of the child- there were two big dogs sitting by the

Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 3 CCD News This summer our parish hosted a about their Catholic faith in an environ- Our teachers are: Totus Tuus team. Totus Tuus means ment of fun and prayer. The daily K-1st Amy Hudson "Totally Yours," the motto of St. John schedule includes both the Mass and 2nd Clint Bain Paul II. It is a week-long Catholic sum- the rosary. 3rd-4th Samantha Baker mer youth program let by a team of Our CCD classes are off to a good 5th-6th Janetta Heroneme seminarians and college age students. start. We have eight classes starting 7th Chris & Brandy Becker The young enthusiastic team lead their with Kindergarten up to 10th grade. 8th Marnie Kohl students on a journey toward a deeper There are about 80 kids enrolled this 9th George & Alyssa Crawford love for Jesus and Mary. Students learn year. and Craig Seibel 10th Eldon Pfeifer Students in our 10th grade class are preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Confirmation is a sacrament in which the graces a person received at Baptism are increased and strengthened. This increase in graces helps the confirmed person to more effectively deal with a hostile world that seeks to destroy faith. Confirma- tion is not end of our faith formation, but the beginning of a new journey of faith. Pray for our students as they prepare to receive this sacrament. Totus Tuus: 1st—6th Grades Luci Bain (DRE)

Race for Education (by Michelle Eberle) Race for Education 2016 fundraising program that was has been a success! The stu- implemented nine years ago dents raised $19,800 plus St. to help St. Mary’s School up- Mary’s School received a date and maintain the school. grant of $5,000 from the Dane The students mail out letters G. Hansen Foundation. This requesting family and friends year the funds were desig- to sponsor them in the Race nated for additional class- for Education or jog-a-thon. rooms and other essential The students also get to com- updates. Three rooms were pete for a number of prizes selected to be remodeled; to and awards. Every year the accommodate the ever- Race for Education fundraiser changing needs at St. Mary’s has been a success thankfully School. These rooms included because of the students, fam- Music Room, Nurse’s Office, ily, friends and supporters. and Computer Lab. The re- Each year approximately 60% model was completed in time of the funds come from out- for school by Bittel-Haas Con- side of Ellis. Thank you to all struction. that supported the 2016 Race for Education. Before & after pictures of new Nurse’s Office Race for Education is a

Music Room becomes the Nurse’s Office Nurse Office’s becomes Special Ed Classroom Computer Lab becomes the Music Room Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 4 St. Mary’s School—From the Principal The school year at St. Chromebooks for grades 4 through 6 after Saint Dominic Savio, a young Mary’s is in full due to a generous Wiesner grant. The man who dedicated his short life to swing! We started laptops have now gone down to the God. As the Savio Pledge states, “Our off the year with Kindergarten through 2nd grades so main work is to bear witness to Christ.” some remodeling they are one-to-one as well. There are We do this by performing community still going on, but so many ways the students can use service, such as visiting the Good Sam that has all been technology in the classroom: typing and donating money to charities. completed and looks stories, taking tests, creating projects, Elected officers lead monthly meetings fantastic. You’ll find the specifics in the and going on virtual field trips, just to to decide which charities receive the Race for Education report in this news- name a few. profits. Since 2005 we have given over letter. We are very happy with the extra $4,500 to people in need. The club also Of course the most integral part of rooms created for Music, Health, and votes for a monthly character builder to our school is our Catholic faith. We Mrs. Eller’s office. work on for 30 days, such as treating start Monday, Wednesday, and Friday others with respect. At each meeting Our school year began with an ice with a prayer service led by a different the students choose a fellow student as cream social hosted by Home & School. staff member; Tuesdays and Thursdays Sportsperson of the Month, someone Parents enjoyed a cool treat and were we begin our day with Mass. It’s hard who best displays the quality of sports- able to visit their child’s classroom to to have a bad day when you begin it by manship. They also vote for Savio of meet with the teacher. Our first week- giving praise to God! Our sixth grade the Month, someone who is most like end school Mass was Saturday, Sep- class is continuing on with the Dominic Dominic Savio in purity of mind and tember 24th, and we plan on having Savio Club. For those of you who are heart. several more. Those will be November not familiar with it, the club is named 20th, January 29th, and March 11th. The Some upcoming events include the students really enjoy being a part of the Living Rosary on October 19, at 2:30 in parish Mass, and it allows them to the church; Trunk or Treat on October share their time and talent with the 28, from 7 pm to 8pm in front of Ar- parishioners. thur’s; and our Thanksgiving community meal on November 22. If you have Our enrollment is down slightly any questions about our school, feel this year due to several families mov- free to contact me by email, princi- ing away. We have an average class [email protected], or phone, 785-726 size of 10 students, which allows for -3185. more one-on-one time with teachers. Even though we are a small school, we April Pfeifer are not lacking in technology. Grades 3 through 6 have been on a one-to-one Fourth Grade class presents their rock ratio with laptops for several years, but this year we were able to purchase collections to the Kindergarten class. Garage Sale to Benefit Home & School

Friday, Oct. 21, 2016 (12 - 5 p.m.) and Saturday, Oct. 22, 2016 (8-11 a.m.). Ellis senior athletes signing autographs Call Lillian Bongartz at 785-726- after sharing a meal with SMS students during homecoming week 1319 for drop offs or donations.

Volume 1, Issue 1 Page 5 Meet Our School Staff

April Roberta Meagan Susan Meagan Amber Pfeifer Augustine Pantle Henrickson Everett Deutscher (Principal) (Secretary) (Pre-K) (Kindergarten) (1st Grade) (2nd Grade)

Patricia Peggy Angie Jackie Deb Shelly Meagher Seibel Ward Baxter Eller Hensley (3rd Grade) (4th Grade) (5th Grade) (6th Grade) (Nurse) (Librarian)

Shawn Jake Stacey Diana Mindi Charles Demuth Dreiling Williams Hamel Mader Waldschmidt (Music) (PE) (Band) (Dietary) (Dietary Aide) (Custodian)

The fourth grade class diligent about caring for the has been enjoying their new computers that will be Chromebook computers, theirs throughout the re- which were purchased with mainder of their time here funds from a generous at St. Mary's School! grant from the Wiesner Foundation. These com- Peggy Seibel puters are not only used fr research and typing reports, but have become invaluable in other areas of the curricu- lum as well. They are being used to take Spelling tests, review material in Religion, for typing instruction, for online Reading assessments, and many other tasks. The students have been very

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What is Happening Around the Church & School After many years of fighting lines (see pictures below). To the sur- into grant money to help pay for some sewer backups, we finally have the prise of those who did the digging, it. As you can see from the pictures, problem solved. Three separate sewer there were more "buried" obstacles to some of bells wheels are beginning to between the church, school, and con- work around, like phone lines! separate and break apart. Mainte- vent were installed and tied to the nance would include replacing the Another project that was finally city's main line. Thanks to all those bell wheels, the inside clapper springs, started, and close to being finished at involved in implementing and suc- corroded bolts, and A-stands. The the time of the writing this article, are cessfully completing the project. Also, bells would be fitted with "pillow the windows. As many may know our thanks to those who donated money block bearings" which will make the Insurance company would not cover the for the project. The grounds looked bell easier to ring and are maintenance windows because of condition they like a "war zone" for awhile as side- free. Estimated labor and parts may be were in. Associated Crafts, a company walks were broken up and removed around $40,000. Most of the parts that specializes in preservation of stain and deep holes dug to lay the sewer will have to be custom made, since glass windows, was contracted to do parts for these old bells you just can't some restoration work on the windows. buy off the shelf, which is one reason Existing window coverings were re- the cost will be higher. moved and replaced with a clear acrylic covering and aluminum framing. Win- dow trim was scraped, re-puttied, and painted. Some other maintenance/ repair work was also done. Our rope rung bells need maintenance work done on them in order to ensure a working system for generations to come (see pictures below). The Bell #2 consensus of the finance and parish councils is to move forward with plans for bell maintenance. The bells are an important part of the history of the church, and it is the feeling of the councils that this historical perspective of our church should be preserved for future generations. We are looking Bell #3

Bell #4

Bell #1 Bell #4

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A Promise Being Kept (by Gini Augustine)

“When the Son of Man mas?” Eighteen years, and were originally gifted to them. comes in his glory...the King not even one had been com- The quilts that are emerging will say to those on his right, pleted, and he wanted 20 by are varied, beautiful, and ‘Come, you who are blessed Christmas, which was barely warm. by my Father, inherit the king- three months away. This could have been sim- dom prepared for you...for I Needless to say, that did- ply just another “project” to was hungry and you gave me n’t happen, but the spark had accomplish, another “duty” food, I was thirsty and you been fanned into a blazing that would encroach on peo- gave me drink, a stranger and fire. Those quilts needed to ple’s time. Instead, the women you welcomed me, naked and get done! Knowing full well have come together joyfully you clothed me, ill and you the old adage that “many and in increasing numbers, cared for me, I was in prison hands make light work,” la- doing whatever they can to and you visited me…’ ” When dies of this parish and beyond bring these quilts into being. questioned about when the place to sleep, the staff and have now banded together to With the current rate of pro- disciples had done these volunteers also provide far help. Ladies are cutting, gress, at least 20 quilts WILL be things, Jesus lovingly an- more. People who come to the stitching, donating and tying; sent to Denver in time for swered, “The King will reply, ‘ shelter are given the opportu- they are working at home on Christmas this year. Addition- Amen, I say to you, whatever nity to literally turn their lives their own time and at the K of ally, the ladies are working to you did for one of these least around, receiving counseling C Hall during Daughters of provide backpacks and per- brothers of mine, you did for and life skills training. Fr. Isabella socials. One lady has sonal items to accompany the me.’ “ --Mt. 25:34-40 Michael’s concern and humble made entire quilts, and others 20 quilts. service for the people there Even today, Jesus contin- have offered quilt tops that have provided the spark for Anyone interested in help- ues to invite us to act in love this project, even during those for those who are the “least many dry years, when no among us.” For a group of quilts were ever made. In enthusiastic local women, that speaking to him about a year is exactly the call they have ago, this errant “wannabe” chosen to follow. Acting with quiltmaker dared to hope that compassion, they have said the quilts were no longer “yes” to helping with a labor needed, that the people find- of love that was first offered as ing their way to Samaritan a sacred promise before the House were already warm Blessed Sacrament in St. and safe and doing well. Mary’s Church in Ellis, some There was, to be honest, a sort 19 years ago. For many rea- of hope that Fr. Michael sons, that promise was made would say, “No, you don’t to offer back to the Lord the need to worry about the quilt talents and materials He had project any more. We’re do- freely given. The idea, fully ing okay.” Hundreds of homeless men, women and families receive formed, came suddenly to services each day and a place to stay. mind. It would be good to What he said was totally make quilts and gather per- the opposite. Fr. Michael said sonal items for the homeless something like this: “Oh, you who find their way to the Sa- can’t imagine the great need maritan House in Denver, we have for help in our shelter those who are truly the “least right now. What we would among us.” It is often said need most are quilts for the that “God’s timing is not our women and children we have timing.” Although that prom- to turn away -- we just don’t ise was made so long ago and have enough room for many never fulfilled, this seems of them, and it’s heart- now, finally, to be “the accept- breaking to have to tell them able time.” that.” WOMEN AND CHIL- DREN???? What if those were Fr. Michael Suchnikki, a our daughters, our grandkids? Capuchin priest formerly of But then he added, “Do you Ellis, has been stationed at the think you could make oh, Samaritan House in Denver about 20 of them -- and could Samaritan House in Downtown Denver for many years, Although the you get them here by Christ- shelter provides meals and a (Continued on page 8)

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(Continued from page 7) yond measure, for all they name of the Father, the Son, Personal care items (all in ing will still be welcome. have done and continue to do. and the Holy Spirit. Amen.] small “travel” sizes if possi- People don’t necessarily need For all of you who are now ble): toothbrushes, tooth- Closing prayer: [In the to be skilled in sewing to con- considering this call to help, paste, hand sanitizers, sham- name of the Father, the Son, tribute to this worthwhile the best gift you can give is to poo, conditioner, soap, wipes, and the Holy Spirit, amen.] cause -- all sorts of skills are offer the work of your hands combs and small brushes, Our dear St. Benedict Joseph needed to finish these quilts. as though to the Lord Jesus small packs of tissues, chap- Labré, patron saint of all Additionally, donations of Himself -- to remind yourself, stick, deodrant, fingernail homeless people, we ask you certain items would also be at every opportunity, “with clippers to intercede for us with our most appreciated. Still needed every stitch, a prayer!” That is Lord, on behalf of those peo- are larger pieces of fabric in the hope for anyone who will Personal-use items: little ple who will receive these cotton or cotton blends. Small choose to work on this project flashlights with batteries, plas- quilts that we make. And prints, batiks and solids work -- pray as you begin each tic rain ponchos, (either of Lord, we offer You the work best for these, which will be work session, as you select these two are about $1 at Wal- of our hands. We ask that used for setting squares, bor- just the right fabrics to add a mart), small folding umbrellas you give us true compassion ders and backing; quilt batting little cheer into their lives, (you can find them for $1 and generosity, that we can is also needed. Beyond that, pray for these unknown peo- sometimes at Dollar Tree) work well and joyfully and people could donate any ple whenever you think of emergency (foil-look) blan- complete these quilts in time amount of personal items. At them. Allow your loving sac- kets, little hand-warmer pack- for this year’s Christmas giv- the end of this article, you will rifice of time and effort to ets, little first aid kits (just ing. [In the name of the Fa- find a fairly comprehensive carry your prayers heaven- some sanitizing wipes plus ther, the Son, and the Holy list of possible items to in- ward, even when you aren’t Bandaids might do), sun Spirit. Amen.] clude in the care packages for even consciously praying. We glasses (you can ask at stadi- our homeless sisters and probably won’t ever know If you are considering ums and places where con- brothers. You might think of who receives our quilts, but adding your efforts to ours, certs were put on, etc. -- there other things that would be God will. In fact, He sees beware -- this will probably be are often dozens of these in useful as well. Of course, them even now, receiving and way more work than you ever the lost-and-found that no one we’ll also be asking Fr. Dana bundling up in these quilts imagined. On the flip-side, it has ever claimed) to bless these heart-gifts, be- some time in “our” future. can also be very fulfilling fore we send them on. work as well! If you decide Food items, individually Here are two prayers for you don’t have time to do wrapped: granola bars, trail In the past, several people your consideration. Of course, much, do a little. If you don’t mix, beef jerky or sticks, were asked to help out with you’re definitely encouraged even have time to do a little, cracker packs, mints, chewing this project, but they declined. to pray from your own heart please just keep us and this gum, candy, packs of instant It’s easy to understand why. as well. project in your prayers. coffee or cocoa After putting in all this work Opening prayer [In the Thanks so much for putting and effort, these quilts may be name of the Father, the Son, this on your radar screen! Misc. items: little New Tes- dragged around, flopped on and the Holy Spirit, amen.] tament Bibles, rosaries, gloves the ground or in a dirty car. For more information, Lord God, we are all so and warm caps, warm socks, They’ll be shoved into back- contact Gini Augustine at 785- blessed, here in Ellis, Kansas. personal notes of encourage- packs and stuffed into old 726-4257 or Peggy Wald- None of us here are homeless ment, ball caps (nothing with shopping carts and totes. schmidt at 785-726-3458. or likely to become homeless well-known sports teams or They may be well-loved, or in the near future, but our anything that would identify the people who use them may Here is the list of possible hearts go out to those who are. you or this area), good- pay them no thought at all. donations for our care packs. Sometimes through poor condition backpacks Why, then, should anyone put Feel free to add others! choices, sometimes through out all this effort and time to circumstances beyond their make quilts that may be control, many people have felt treated so poorly? Because, their lives disintegrating, simply put, these people who closed in by poverty and help- will receive our quilts are HU- lessness. Lord God, we come MAN -- they are deeply loved before you, saddened by the by our Lord, and the love and burden these children of care we put into these quilts Yours must be experiencing as may help them know that they search about for a safe somewhere, someone “out place to stay. Please allow us there” was also thinking of to have some small part in them and praying for them stitching these precious lives and loving them uncondition- back together, We ask your ally. blessings on our endeavor and Those lovely ladies who on all whose lives will be have already signed on for warmed and comforted by the service are appreciated be- work of our hands. [In the

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“Are You Jesus” (Author Unknown) his taking a later flight. He is good, kind, caring, loving and would never have bumped into your Then he returned to the terminal display in the first place.” where the apples were all over the terminal floor. He was glad he did. The girl gently nodded, “I only The 16 year old girl was totally blind! asked because I prayed for Jesus to She was softly crying, tears running help me gather the apples. He sent down her cheeks in frustration, and you to help me. Thank you for hear- at the same time helplessly groping ing Jesus, Mister.” for her spilled produce as the crowd Then slowly he made his way to swirled about her; no one stopping catch the later flight with that ques- and no one to care for her plight. tion burning and bouncing around in A few years ago a group of sales- The salesman knelt on the floor his soul: “Are you Jesus?” men went to a regional sales conven- with her, gathered up the apples, put Do people mistake you for Jesus? tion in Chicago. They had assured them back on the table and helped their wives that they would be home organize her display. As he did this, That’s our destiny, is it not? To in plenty of time for Friday night’s he noticed that many of them had be so much like Jesus that people can- dinner. In their rush to catch the become battered and bruised; these not tell the difference as we live and plane home and with tickets and he set aside in another basket. interact with a world that is blind to briefcases, one of these salesmen in- His love, life and grace. When he had finished, he pulled advertently kicked over a table which out his wallet and said to the girl, If we claim to know Him, we held a display of apples. Apples flew “Here, please take this $50 for the should live, walk and act as He everywhere. Without stopping or damage we did. Are you okay?” She would. Knowing Him is more than looking back, they all managed to nodded through her tears. simply quoting scripture and going reach the plane in time for their to church. It’s actually living the He continued on with “I hope we nearly missed boarding. Word as life unfolds day to day. didn’t spoil your day too badly.” As All But One! He paused, took a the salesman started to walk away, You are the apple of His eye even deep breath, got in touch with his the bewildered blind girl called out to though you, too, have been bruised feelings and experienced a twinge of him, “Mister,” he paused and turned by a fall. He stopped what He was compassion for the girl whose apple to look back into those blind eyes. doing and picked up you and me on stand had been overturned. He told She continued, “Are you Jesus?” a hill called Calvary and paid in full his buddies to go on without him, for our damaged fruit. waved good-bye, told one of them to He stopped in mid-stride and he call his wife when they arrived at wondered. He gently went back and their home destination and explain said, “No, I am nothing like Jesus – “Why Go to Church” wrote this clincher: God is UP to something! Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible “I’ve been married for 30 years A church goer wrote a letter to and receives the impossible! T h a n k now. In that time my wife has the editor of a newspaper and com- God for our physical AND our spiri- cooked some 32,000 meals. But, plained that it made no sense to go to tual nourishment! church every Sunday. “I’ve gone for for the life of me, I cannot recall 30 years now,” he wrote, “and in that the entire menu for a single one of time I have heard something like those meals. But I do know this. 3,000 sermons. But for the life of me, They all nourished me and gave me I can’t remember a single one of the strength I needed to do my them. So, I think I’m wasting my work. If my wife had not given me time and the pastors are wasting these meals, I would be physically theirs by giving sermons at all.” dead today.” This started a real controversy in “Likewise, if I had not gone to the “Letter to the Editor” column, church for nourishment, I would be much to the delight of the editor. It spiritually dead today!” went on for weeks until someone When you are DOWN to nothing,

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Liturgical Events: November 1, 2016—January 8, 2016 Month of Nov. The Book of Remembrance will be in the church. Nov. 1 Feast of All Saints—Holy Day of Obligation. Mass Times: 8:10 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Nov. 1—25 Food Drive for those in need in our town. Boxes will be in the entrance of the church for you to place your items.

Nov. 2 All Soul’s Day. Mass at 8:10 a.m.

Cemetery Prayers after 9:00 a.m. Mass Nov. 6 Remembering Prayer Service 4:00 p.m. (See article below) Anointing of Sick service during Mass after the homily. Front pews will be reserved for those who will find it diffi- Nov. 13 cult to walk. Nov. 20 Feast of Christ the King. The end of the liturgical year. Also the end of the Year of Mercy.

Nov. 24 Thanksgiving Day. Mass is at 9:00 a.m. This is a good time to come and thank God for all his blessings.

1st Sunday of Advent. The Gift Tree will be in the entrance of the church. The Gift Tree is for the residents of the Good Samaritan Center as a gift from parishioners on Christmas Day. There may be many items on the list but Nov. 27 you choose only one. You may take your gift to the Good Samaritan Center or leave them in the entrance of the church, and we will take them to Good Sam’s.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Holy day of obligation). Mass times: Wednesday evening at 7:10 a.m. Dec. 8 (CCD Mass). Thursday at 8:10 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Dec. 18 Communal Penance Service at 4:00 p.m.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Mass times: Dec. 24 at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. (Children’s Mass). Christ- Dec. 24-25 mas Day at 9:00 a.m.

News Years. Feast of the Holy Mother of God & World Day of Peace. Mass times: Sat at 5:30 p..m. and Sun. at Jan. 1 9:00 a.m.

Feast of the Epiphany. Blessings of Homes will be on this day. Holy Water, chalk and Blessing Prayer will be Jan. 8 provided.

Remembering Prayer Service

Our Liturgy Commit- attending will come up and light a can- ish our invited to attend, even if they tee will be holding a dle for their loved one. The prayer ser- have no loved ones to remember. "Remembering Prayer vice concludes with the Way of the Service" to remember Cross in Time of Grief. Candles will Fr. Dana those who have died in have the name of the deceased on them, the past year. This and at the end of the service families can prayer service will re- take the candle they lit home with them. place the reading of A glass candle with a six-day candle deceased members of St. Mary's during insert will be used, so that the candle the Sunday Mass before All Saints Day. can continue to used as long as the fam- The prayer service will take place on ily wishes by replacing the insert when Sunday, November 6th at 4:00 p.m. Par- it burns out. We will be compiling a list ish family members who have lost a of names. If you have a loved who died loved one during the year will be in- within the past year, and you want us to vited to attend. At the prayer service be sure that person is on the list, call Sr. the names of the deceased will be an- Doris or myself. All members of the par- Picture of Remembering Prayer Service nounced and family members who are held in Colby

Volume 1, Issue 1 Fun Page Page 11

1 23 ACROSS 45

67 8 1 The disciple who was also called Peter 2 Betrayer of Jesus 910 9 Temple prophetess 11 10 Father of John the Baptist 11 Mary's very busy sister 12 13 14 Mother of John the Baptist 14 15 15 He found no guilt in Jesus, yet sentenced 16 him to death 17 18 17 Doctor and New Testament writer 18 Official whose daughter was healed by Jesus

19 20 19 He had John the Baptist beheaded 20 The earthly father of Jesus 21 Blind beggar healed by Jesus 21 www.CrosswordWeaver.com DOWN

1 The tempter 6 Tax collector who became a disciple of Jesus 3 Peter's brother 7 Writer of the second gospel 4 The Way, the Truth, and the Life 8 The disciple who called Nathanael to follow Jesus 5 He asked, "How can a man be born again?" 10 Short tax collector

Unscramble these Disney Characters Word List—The 12 Apostles PETER PHILIP JAMES ALPHAEUS KCDU ______ANDREW BARTHOLOMEW THADDAEUS DNLODA ______JAMES THOMAS SIMON MCYEKI ______JOHN MATTHEW JUDAS ISCARIOT OOFYG ______OMUES ______PUTOL ______DMBUO ______BBIAM ______NSWO IEHWT ______

Start

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Life Happenings — May 28, 2016 — September 30, 2016 BAPTISMS 6. Nolan David Reed Services were conducted by Fr. Rich- Born July 31, 2016 ard Daise. Interment was in Sacred 1. Brenna Mae Heart Cemetery in Plainville, KS. Baptized on September 17, 2016 Born January 14, 2016 4) Donald Herl passed away on August Son of Darin Reed and April (Lilak) Reed Baptized May 28, 2016 6, 2016. He was born November 20, 1946. Funeral service was held Au- Daughter of Monte Honas and Kylie (Morel) 7. Vincent John Eck gust 11, 2016 at St. Mary’s Church, Honas Ellis. Services were conducted by Fr. Born July 26, 2016 Dana Clark and Fr. Richard Daise. Baptized September 18, 2016 Burial was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, 2. Tenley Marie Goldsberry Ellis, KS. Son of Mark Eck and Sarah (Hahn) Eck Born July 24, 2015 5) Virginia “Ginny” Robinett passed Baptized June 2, 2016 away on August 15, 2016. She was MARRIAGES Daugther of Craig Goldsberry and Michelle born March 16, 2016. Funeral service was held August 19, 2016 at St. (Augustine) Goldsberry 1) John Gnad married Pamela Brummer on June 25, 2016 Mary’s Church, Ellis. Services were conducted by Fr. Dana Clark. Burial 3. Annistyn Kay Watson 2) Ethan Cox married Britny was in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ellis, KS. Pfannenstiel on September 10, 2016 Born May 2, 2016 6) Jackie Kohl passed away on August 3) Brian Riedel married Tori Clark 24, 2016. She was born March 10, Baptized July 16, 2016 on September 24, 2016 1950. Funeral service was held Au- Daughter of Tyler Watson and Chasity gust 29, 2016 at St. Mary’s Church, (Waldschmidt) Watson Ellis. Services were conducted by Fr. DEATHS Dana Clark. Burial was in St. Mary’s

1) Leora Schoenberger passed away on Cemetery, Ellis, KS. 4. Olivia Elenora North November 13, 2015. She was buried 7) Charles Carlson passed away on Feb- Born May 20, 2016 next to her husband Don in St. ruary 20, 2016. He was born October Mary’s Cemetery, Ellis, KS. Baptized July 25, 2016 31, 1930. Committal Service was held 2) Lori Newell passed away on June 11, September 10, 2016 at St. Mary’s Daughter of Travis North and Ava (Toliver) 2016. She was born November 9, Cemetery, Ellis, KS. Services were North 1963. Funeral service was held June conducted by Fr. Dana Clark. 14, 2016 at St. Mary’s Church, Ellis. 8) Elaine Bittel passed away on Septem- 5. Easton Paul Aschenbrenner Services were conducted by Fr. Rich- ber 15, 2016. She was born January ard Daise. Interment was in St. Jo- 5, 1948. Funeral service was held Born May 5, 2016 seph Cemetery, Damar, KS. September 24, 2016 at St. Mary’s Baptized July 31, 2016 3) Irene Dreiling passed away on June Church, Ellis. Services were con- Son of Gary Aschenbrenner and Tara 19, 2016. She was born April 17, ducted by Fr. Dana Clark. Burial was 1925. Funeral service was held June in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ellis, KS. (Gassmann) Aschenbrenner 22, 2016 at St. Mary’s Church, Ellis.

St. Mary’s Parish Solutions to Fun Page puzzles.

St. Mary’s Church 703 Monroe St. Ellis, KS 67637 Phone: 785.726-4522 Email: [email protected]

St. Mary’s School 605 Monroe St. Ellis, KS 67637 Phone: 785.726-3185 Email: [email protected] Duck, Donald, Mickey, Goofy, Mouse, Pluto, Dumbo, Bambi, Snow White