St. Mary ~ St. Catholic Mission P O Box 388, Plantersville, Texas 77363 ~~~~ JUNE, 2015 ~~~~ Archdiocese of Galveston~Houston / Daniel Cardinal DiNardo

Fr. Edward C. Kucera, Jr. ~ Pastor Fr. William T. Kelly ~ In Residence 936-894-2016 Deacon G. Garvis

Parish Office ~ 936~894~2223 (Monday ~ Friday 8:00 am ~ 5:00 pm) (Lunch ~ Closed ~ 12:00 pm ~ 1:00 pm)

Parish Fax ~ 936~894~3613 Website: www.smsj.org General E~Mail: [email protected]

SACRAMENT OF PENANCE MASS SCHEDULE St. Mary ~ Wednesday: 6:30-8:30 p.m., Saturday: 4:45-5:15 p.m. St. Mary—Plantersville Or by Appointment—Please Call the Office.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Monday, Wednesday, Thursday & First Friday—9:00 a.m. Saturday ~ 5:30 p.m. & Sunday ~ 7:45, 9:00 & 10:30 a.m. SACRAMENTAL INFORMATION St. Joseph—Stoneham Please call the parish office for information concerning Tuesday ~ 9:00 a.m. & Sunday ~ 7:30 a.m. Sacraments of Baptism, Matrimony or Anointing of the Sick.

Church Organizations & Ministries at St. Mary’s & St. Joseph’s Parish Administrator Funeral Ministers RCIA / Adult Faith Formation Ron Carroll 936-894-2223 Bill & Laveta Malek 936-894-2465 Don Picard 936-697-0195 AA Project Rummage Sale Coordinators Leland Fougeron 936-825-2709 Wanda O’Brien 936-597-6328 Tom & Ann Schwartz 936-499-5066 Adult Bible Study & Spiritual Enrichment God’s Gardeners St. Mary’s & St. Joseph’s Cemeteries Fred & Freddie Seale 936-582-7095 Roy Klaus (Call Office) 936-894-2223 Fr. Ed Kucera 936-894-2223 Annulments GriefShare The Domino Club Office 936-894-2223 Call Parish Office 936-894-2223 Jerry & Anita Thornton 936-523-0497 Head of Sacristans Music Ministry Guardian Angels (Seniors) Bill Malek 936-894-2465 Linda Armstrong 936-825-0565 Nancy Schlottman 936-597-8327 St. Mary’s Corner Shoppe St. Mary’s Altar Society Homebound Ministry Ethel Barbossa 936-588-4053 Faith Rose 832-405-2481 Larry & Patty Decker 936-445-6078 St. Mary’s Men’s Club St. Joseph’s Altar Society Lectors Bob Rose 832-405-2482 Kaky Wetuski 936-894-2307 Richard Prokop 936-597-8688 Stitchin’ Sisters Altar Servers Kathy Magliolo 936-597-5330 Sylvia Corolla 936-894-2790 Wanda O’Brien 936-597-6328 Marriage Preparation St. Vincent de Paul (for help, 936-894-2362) Baptism Preparation for Infants to 6 Cal Parish Office 936-894-2223 Gerry McKenna 936-873-0162 Gaby Tryon 936-448-1342 For Spanish speaking prep, call: T.O.P.S. Spanish Baptism Prep for Infants to 6 Brenda Martinez 936-777-9720 Mildred Rosenberg 713-504-9362 Maria Pena 916-240-3403 Ministers of Hospitality Vocations Committee CCE / RE Micki Tichacek 936-597-7010 Chairperson Needed 936-894-2223 Cheryl Schratwieser 936-449-6136 Pro-Life Outreach Write for Life Bob Dean 936-582-6314 Extraordinary Ministers-Holy Communion Nance Shaw 936-894-2512 Youth Group Bob Armstrong 936-825-0565 Susan Horne 281-536-0810 AND NOW A WORD FROM YOUR PASTOR….

Both of our communities of St. Mary and St. Joseph have events that have become social events of the season for both Grimes and Montgomery counties. Our annual bazaars have become magnets for bringing back old-timers for a homecoming and drawing people from many parts of Texas to experience a truly authentic country festival. In addition, St. Joseph’s annual Stew Supper, celebrating the Mission’s name sake, has become a gourmet treat that all look forward to eat on premises and take a container home to savor again later. The annual garage sale of St. Mary has transformed itself into the much anticipated annual Rummage Sale that covers almost every square inch of the hall and pavilions with addition tents overflowing with clothing, household items, seasonal decorations, knick-knacks, books, electronics and a selection of furniture and furnishings that rival Gallery Furniture in Houston. All this doesn’t even call to attentions the annual Christmas parties and other social gatherings that make being here like ‘another day in paradise.’ Now a new event has raised its head and taken its place as a prestigious, not-to- be-missed opportunity to come and enjoy a rewarding outing into the country guaran- teed to awe and inspire. I’m referring to, of course, the 1st annual St. Mary Quilt Show that made its debut on April 24 & 25. Little did I realize the impact that a collection of quilts here would have on putting St. Mary on the quilters’ map of notable shows. Nor did I imagine how the beauty of that collection displayed in the church, over the pews, would enhance and beautify to the max an already beautiful church. It all began with Lorraine Nilson asking the question, “What do you think of having a quilt show here at St. Mary?”. A simple “Sure, that could be fun” developed into a professionally organized and orchestrated showing of quilts that brought tears to many eyes and sighs of ‘Ooo!’ and ‘Ahaa!’ that could be heard in Conroe. Folks, we’re talking not about just a display of quilts in the church, but in the hall an assortment of quality vendors of quilting paraphernalia, a restaurant, The Dresden Café, that prepared a lunch and desserts rivaling any tearoom anywhere and sense of community and fellowship that visitors remarked they rarely, if ever, encounter at other quilt shows. As pastor, I was beaming when I heard visitors comment on how impressed they were on the number of volunteers that were on hand each day and how delighted and even surprised they were at the atmosphere of welcome and hospitality that overflowed in every volunteer. I want to acknowledge the participation of our St. Mary/St. Joseph Stitchin’ Sisters who meet at St. Joseph’s each Wednesday. That our quilters were represented and participated says much about the spirit of cooperation that exists among our organizations. Much credit has to be given Lorraine Nilson and her organizing committee. The show was going to be a first class operation from the onset, I had no doubt. Sitting in on the first meeting, I knew that this was not going to be an ordinary quilt show. [I have to admit that I originally thought the planning was for 2016...ha]. The overwhelming comment by those who came not knowing what to

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AND NOW A WORD FROM YOUR PASTOR...(Continued from previous page) expect was that they could scarcely believe this was St. Mary’s 1st Quilt Show. A report on the success of the 1st Annual Quilt Show will be found in this bulletin. Every event, every activity of our communities of St. Mary and St. Joseph depends on numerous and dedicated volunteers. I am the proudest of pastors realizing that our volunteers are not only the most responsible and dependable but also display the best representation of who we are as church: people who do what we do for the honor and glory of God...people who consider themselves family... people who like each other and enjoy working together...people who are eager to shake the hand of a stranger and welcome the guest with open arms. Can a pastor be more proud or blessed?!

THE INTENTIONS OF THE HOLY FATHER FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE

To better know ‘the concrete problems that trouble the Universal Church, especially those of the missions,’ the Holy Father asks that his monthly intentions be “the object of knowledgeable and responsible prayer on the part of the people of God.”

Universal: That immigrants and refugees may find welcome and respect in the countries to which they come.

For Evangelization: That the personal encounter with Jesus may arouse in many young people the desire to offer their own lives in priesthood or consecrated life.

FEAST OF CORPUS CHRISTI ~ Sunday, June 7

On the Feast of Corpus Christi, the total offertory in every parish of the archdiocese is dedicated to the support of those studying for the priesthood. Over a million dol- lars is needed from this collection to support our seminarians studying for the priesthood. To achieve this goal, Archbishop DiNardo requests that you double the amount of your regular church support for the weekend of June 6 & 7. If each contributor will do this, the needed subsidy will be met by this collection. In gratitude for the incomparable gift of the Holy which is inseparably joined to the priesthood, please do your part to help the archdiocese provide priests for the sake of your future by praying daily for vocations and supporting this collection.

~ SECOND COLLECTION ~ June 28 ~ Peter’s Pence Collection (Holy Father’s Charities) The Peter’s Pence Collection is taken up worldwide to support the most disadvantaged: victims of war, oppression, and natural disasters and others in need of emergency assistance. Liturgical Readings for June June 1 St. Justin: Tb 1:3; 2:1b-8 • Ps 112:1-2,3-4,5-6 • Mk 12:1-12 June 2 [Sts. Marcellinus and Peter]: Tb 2:9-14 • Ps 112:1-2,7-8,9 • Mk 12:13-17 June 3 St. Charles Lwanga and Companions: Tb 3:1-11a,16-17a • Ps 25:2-3,4-5,6,7,8-9 • Mk 12:18-27 June 4: Tb 6:10-11; 7:1bcde,9-17; 8:4-9a • Ps 128:1-2,3,4-5 • Mk 12:28-34 June 5 St. Boniface: Tb 11:5-17 • Ps 146:1-2,6-7,8-9,9-10 • Mk 12:35-37 June 6 [St. Norbert]: Tb 12:1,5-15,20 • Tb 13:2,6,7,8 • Mk 12:38-44 June 7 The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ: Ex 24:3-8 • Ps 116:12-13,15-16,17-18 • Heb 9:11-15 • Mk 14:12-16, 22-26 June 8: 2 Cor 1:1-7 • Ps 34:2-3,4-5,6-7,8-9 • Mt 5:1-12 June 9 [St. Ephrem]: 2 Cor 1:18-22 • Ps 119:129,130,131,132,133,135 • Mt 5:13-16 June 10: 2 Cor 3:4-11 • Ps 99:5,6,7,8,9 • Mt 5:17-19 June 11 St. : Acts 11:21b-26; 13:1-3 • Ps 98:1,2-3,3-4,5-6 • Mt 5:20-26 June 12 The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus: Hos 11:1,3-4,8c-9 • Is 12:2-3,4,5-6 • Eph 3:8-12,14-19 • Jn 19:31-37 June 13 [The Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Mary; St. ]: 2 Cor 5:14-21 • Ps 103:1,2,3,4,9-10, 11-12 • Mt 5:33-37 June 14 Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time: Ez 17:22-24 • Ps 92:2-3,13-14,15-16 • 2 Cor 5:6-10 • Mk 4:26-34 June 15: 2 Cor 6:1-10 • Ps 98:1,2-3,3-4 • Mt 5:38-42 June 16: 2 Cor 8:1-9 • Ps 146:1-2,5-6,6-7,8-9 • Mt 5:43-48 June 17: 2 Cor 9:6-11 • Ps 112:1-2,3-4,9 • Mt 6:1-6,16-18 June 18: 2 Cor 11:1-11 • Ps 111:1-2,3-4,7-8 • Mt 6:7-15 June 19 [St. Romuald]: 2 Cor 11:18,21-30 • Ps 34:2-3,4-5,6-7 • Mt 6:19-23 June 20 [BVM]: 2 Cor 12:1-10 • Ps 34:8-9,10-11,12-13 • Mt 6:24-34 June 21 Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time: Jb 38:1,8-11 • Ps 107:23-24,25-26,28-29,30-31 • Cor 5:14-17 • Mk 4:35-41 June 22 [St. Paulinus of Nola; Sts. and ]: Gn 12:1-9 • Ps 33:12-13,18-19,20,22 • Mt 7:1-5 June 23: Gn 13:2,5-18 • Ps 15:2-3,3-4,5 • Mt 7:6,12-14 June 24 The Nativity of St. : Is 49:1-6 • Ps 139:1-3,13-14,14-15 • Acts 13:22-26 • Lk 1:57-66,80 June 25: Gn 16:1-12,15-16 • Ps 106:1-2,3-4,4-5 • Mt 7:21-29 June 26: Gn 17:1,9-10,15-22 • Ps 128:1-2,3,4-5 • Mt 8:1-4 June 27 [St. ]: Gn 18:1-15 • Lk 1:46-47,48-49,50,53,54-55 • Mt 8:5-17 June 28 Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time: Wis 1:13-15; 2:23-24 • Ps 30:2,4,5-6,11,12,13 • 2 Cor 8:7,9,13-15 • Mk 5:21-43 June 29 Sts. Peter and Paul: Acts 12:1-11 • Ps 34:2-3,4-5,6-7,8-9 • 2 Tm 4:6-8,17-18 • Mt 16:13-19 June 30 [The First of the Holy Roman Church]: Gn 19:15-29 • Ps 26:2-3,9-10,11-12 • Mt 8:23-27

Creative( Communications For The Parish. Used by permission.

RCIA ~ Rite Of Christian Initiation for Adults Are you thinking of becoming a Catholic? Do you know someone interested in the Catholic Faith? Or you have been away from the Catholic Faith and would like to inquire on returning to the faith?

RCIA “The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults” is the process of educational formation and spiritual formation by which adults become full members in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. Formation classes are presently underway on Sunday’s at 10:30 am in the Family Life Center and the RCIA calendar is posted on St. Mary’s web site, www.smsj.org, under “grow in faith”. We invite all those who are not baptized, those who are baptized in other faiths and those baptized in the Catholic faith that would like to increase their knowledge in Catholicism. If you are interested in learning more about the possibility of joining the Roman Catholic Church or is interested in increasing their adult faith formation, contact Donald A. Picard, Jr. at [email protected] or 936-697-0195.

May 31 (The Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity) ~ 10:30-12:30 ~ Don Picard ~ Inquirer Session—Jesus Christ June 7 (The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body & Blood of Jesus Christ) ~ 12:00-1:30 ~ Fr. Ed ~ Inquirer Session— Eucharist June 14 (11th Sunday of Ordinary Time) ~ 10:30-12:30 ~ Don Picard ~ Inquirer Session—Catholics and the Bible June 21 (12th Sunday of Ordinary Time) ~ 10:30-12:30 ~ Don Picard ~ Inquirer Session—Father’s Day—Book of Revelation—the Lamb’s Supper June 28 (13th Sunday of Ordinary Time) ~ 10:30-12:30 ~ Don Picard ~ Inquirer Session—

St. Vincent de Paul Society

Jesus doesn’t call the type of follower that we might expect. He doesn’t call the “righteous but sinners”. It is not the most brilliant nor the holiest nor the most able nor the most worthy who is called to follow Jesus. The call to discipleship doesn’t depend upon any of these, but is a gratuitous gift of grace. It’s not dependent upon who we are, but the call itself makes us who we are – disciples of Christ. Jesus does not exclude anyone from this call. Jesus calls each one of us to reach out to others with the same compassion as Jesus gave.

O God, you called Frederic to minister to the needs of your people, -give us courage to walk in his footsteps. We are always happy to welcome new O God, your grace empowered Frederic to give members to our St. Vincent de Paul birth to our Society, conference. We meet monthly. Our purpose is -give to all members faithfulness to his spirit. to reach out to those in need while working to O God, your grace calls us out of ourselves to improve our own spirituality. If you are become disciples, interested in learning about our work, call our president, Gerry McKenna at 936-873-0162. -give us eyes of faith to find you in the For assistance, call: person of the poor. (936) 894-2362 O God, you invite us to participate in the building up of our Society, NEXT MEETING: -give us the wisdom to invite others to become servants of the poor. Amen. TUES., JUNE 23 @ 3:30 PM.

A Notice about Mass Intentions

When I came to work here going on 8 years ago, I was told to put an intention for only one person or family per Mass per month. Since so many Mass Intentions have been requested through the years

The Catholic Community of and are building up each day, Fr. Ed said I can St. Mary / St. Joseph congratulates double up on the Masses for now to try and catch our newest members receiving the up. Please bear with me as I try to empty the box of Sacraments of Initiation. Masses waiting to be said.

Thanks, Gail Sowell The Rite of Reception Parish Secretary

(Confirmation & Holy Eucharist): Craig Epperson Join the Knights of Columbus (on November 17, 2014) for a & Tamri Janine Longabaugh CAJUN NIGHT WITH GUMBO (on April 12, 2015) FRIDAY, JUNE 26

~~~~~~~~~~~ (Baptism, Confirmation & 5:00PM UNTIL ??? Holy Eucharist): Hilda Juarez At the KC Hall in (at Vigil on April 4, 2015) Anderson

Youth Group Teen Dance C (With Live Band) ontinuing Catechesis & Evangelization June Events Saturday, June 6 ~ 7-11:00 p.m. 6/3 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner 6:30 p.m. St. Mary’s Parish Hall 6/6 Dance w/ Live Band 7:00—11:00 p.m. All teens and their families are invited 6/7 Youth Group—Games, Water Balloon Volleyball to the fun! Bring a snack to share! 6/14 Youth Group—Capture the Flag 6/21 Father’s Day—NO Youth Group

6/22-26 VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 6:30-8:30 p.m.

6/28 Youth Group—Swimming Party—More details later. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL Youth Group meets on Sundays in Room 205 from 11:45-1:30.

Visit the Religious Education website page: http://www.smsj.org/cce/ Contact the Religious Education Office by phone: 936-894-2223 or by email: [email protected] Faith formation

Adult Confirmation: For information, contact Linda Armstrong at 936-825-0565 or [email protected] or leave a message with the office at 936-894-2223.

Baptism: Baptism prep classes and baptisms occur

approximately every other month. For more information, call the parish office at 936-894-2223 or Gaby Tryon at 936-448-1342 or email Gaby at [email protected]. For Spanish classes or Baptisms, call Maria Pena at 916-240-3403.

NEXT BAPTISM CLASS (English): JULY 18, 2015 @ 8:30am in FLC NEXT BAPTISMS (English): AUGUST 16, 2015 @ 10:30 MASS

C.C.E. All CCE First Communion and Confirmation information can be found at: http://www.smsj.org/cce. JUNE 22-26, 2015 The C.C.E. office may be contacted at: 6:30-8:30 p.m. [email protected].

Planning a Marriage? There is a required preparation process that must be completed before one can marry in the Catholic Church —so start early? To begin the process: Contact the office at 936-894-2223. Need an annulment? Please contact the parish office at 936-894-2223. ST. MARY ALTAR SOCIETY ST. JOSEPH NEXT MEETING: JUNE 9 ~ 6PM ~ PARISH HALL ALTAR SOCIETY (THERE WILL BE A MASS @ 5:30PM IN THE CHURCH BEFORE MEETING BEGINS) THERE WILL BE NO Meeting Hostesses: MEETINGS IN JUNE, Lynn Logan & Michele Schromofsky JULY & AUGUST.

JUNE ALTAR CARE: JUNE ALTAR CARE:

Beatrice Diehl & Patty Jones JoAnn Kutac & Verna Kaminski

REFRESHMENT SERVERS: COFFEE SERVERS: JUNE 7: Group 3: Mary Ann Jordon, Patty Card, Dixie Puccetti, JUNE 7: Jeannette Raines, Zina Ulicnik, Mary Winter, Linda Foerster Mary Ann Waters & Judy Noski JUNE 14: MEN’S CLUB BLOOD DRIVE JUNE 14: Ruth Kolek JUNE 21: FATHER’S DAY JUNE 21—FATHER’S DAY: JUNE 28: Group 4: Lorraine Nilson, Pam Poole, Cheryl Hochberger, Michelle Wetuski Patty Jones, Elaine Carroll JUNE 28: Sandra Naski-Rios JULY 5: 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND—NO HOSPITALITY JULY 5: Willie Mae Bohack

ST. MARY’S MEN’S CLUB

The St. Mary’s Men’s Club will be holding their regular meeting in the Hall at St. Mary’s on June 16th at 7:00 p.m. Social period is ahead of the meeting with dinner served at 6:30 p.m. All parish men are members of the

Men’s Club and are encouraged to join and participate in the NEXT BLOOD DRIVE: fellowship this fine group of men enjoy on a monthly basis.

~~~~ We plan to have a guest speaker and invite June 14, 2015

Scholarship winners and their parents to attend the meeting. Hope to see you on the 16th. 8am-1pm - St. Mary Hall

The Mary’s Men’s Club would like to thank all of the parishioners and players who supported our 2015 Charity Golf Outing this year by playing in the event, being volunteers ahead of and during the event, or donating to the event and the auction. With your support we were able to raise over $20,000 which has enabled us to award 11 scholarships to seniors in our St. Mary and St. Joseph parish.

A big part of the income also comes from our merchant sponsors and exhibitors and we would ask all parishioners to consider using these sponsors when you need services they offer in return for their support. This year’s exhibitors and sponsors are listed below:

First Bank of Conroe Donoho’s Jewelers Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish Wal-Mart Brian Ehlers Insurance Agency Thomas Printing & Publishing The Pizza Shack Fred Schurr, Farmer’s Insurance David Pollock, Merrill Lynch Greg Krenek, M.D. Dr. Timothy Gardner, D.D.S. Pat Morgan Plumbing James Wallingford, D.D.S. Sam Houston Memorial Funeral Home Webber’s Landscaping The Lacy Family Shanon Salsbury, State Farm Agent Family Life Medical Southern Star Lakeside Pharmacy Red Bird Meadows Ranch Texas Marine Amergy Bank Blake Pizzolato (Alma memorial) Fred Seale Northside Lexus Friendly Food Mart Mike & Judy Kammerer Grease Monkey

From Fr. Bill: This bulletin will be distributed on Memorial Day weekend. At first, I was going to write about Memorial Day itself, probably producing just a rehash of words and ideas which most of us have heard before. Then I realized that this year, the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend is also the anniversary of the death in Korea of an American POW, Father Emil Kapaun, a Catholic . For me, this good and holy priest stands as a stellar example of the good men and women whom we honor this weekend. Father Kapaun was a native of Kansas who had served as a parish priest. During World War II, with his bishop’s permission, he joined the Army were he rose to the rank of Captain as he served as a Chaplain in Europe. After the War, he returned to his diocese; however, when the Korean Conflict began, he reenlisted and went to Korea “to serve God and our troops” [as he wrote]. He was captured and taken prisoner on November 2, 1950. He and many other prisoners were marched over 1l0 miles to the prison camp at Pyoktong, . On that march, Kapaun was able to convince those who were able to carry the wounded so that they would not be summarily shot. His fellow POWs remembered him as a man of service; he dug latrines, mediated disputes, gave away his own food, and raised morale among the prisoners. He also defied the guards and led his fellow prisoners in prayer and worship. He suffered from dysentery and pneumonia and eventually developed a blood clot in one of his legs. As the months passed, he grew weaker, but was still able to lead an Easter sunrise service on Sunday, March 25, 1951. He was so ill that the prison guards placed him in a place they called the "hospital." In reality it was merely a place where he was left alone without any help; he died of malnutrition and pneumonia on May 23, 1951. He was buried in a mass grave near the Yalu River. His extraordinary service to his fellow prisoners resulted in his being posthumously awarded the , the Bronze Star and the . His ultimate civil honor came on April 11, 2013 when President Obama presented the posthumously to Captain Chaplain Emil Kapaun for his actions in North Korea. The Church has also recognized this exceptional priest. In 1993, Kapaun was named a by John Paul II, the Vatican's first step toward possible . In 2008, the formal opening of the Cause for Sainthood was begun in his home diocese. The Roman Postulator of Kapaun’s cause has also been involved, investigating possible miracles attributed to this holy man, including a medical healing which doctors are unable to explain. As we celebrate this Memorial Day weekend, let us pray not only for the eventual canonization of Father Kapaun, but also for all those who, like him, have died in the service of our country. Last month, I was asked when I was going to share more of Pope Francis’ words. Here are a few which I have found to be very moving. The first is rather personal for me; I’ve been asked more than once how I can sit so long in the confessional, listening to sins. His Holiness gave a good answer while talking to seminarians, new priests and priests who regularly hear confessions in the Roman Basilicas. He said: “Hearing a Catholic’s confession should be awe-inspiring for a priest, an experience that makes him look at his own life and willingness to convert.” He added: “Let yourselves be educated by the sacrament of reconciliation ..... Hearing someone’s confession should lead the priest to make an examination of his [own] conscience, asking, for example, ‘Do I, the priest, love the Lord like this old lady does?’ Or, ‘Am I, as a confessor, willing to change and convert like this penitent, whom I am here to serve?’” To which I must answer: “Amen.” At one of his morning Masses during Lent, Pope Francis said: “When the Bible says that, ‘though your sins be like scarlet,’ God will make them ‘white as snow,’ it exaggerates, just as God exaggerates in his willing- ness to forgive people. He added, “The Lord forgives generously; God never says, ‘I will forgive you just this much, then we’ll see about the rest.’ No! The Lord always forgives everything.” He concluded by reminding us all that the call to conversion is a call to ask God’s forgiveness and to demonstrate sincerity by acts of charity and works of justice. If I may, I would add that the Prophet also told us that God not only forgives everything, he also forgets it, “never again calling it to mind.” [Jer 31:34] We all know that our Lord has asked us to beg the Lord of the Harvest [God, our Father] to send more workers to the vineyard. His Holiness composed this prayer to do just that: “BLESS young people with the gift of courage to respond to your call; OPEN their hearts to great ideals, to great things. INSPIRE all of your disciples to mutual love and giving – for vocations blossom in the good soil of faithful people. INSTILL those in religious life, parish ministries, and families with the confidence and grace to invite others to embrace the bold and noble path of a life consecrated to you. UNITE us in Jesus through prayer and sacrament, so that we may cooperate with you in building your reign of mercy and truth, of justice and peace. Amen.” May this prayer be ours! Help the Grieving: HAVE A HAPPY Our GriefShare team needs volun- teers to assist in providing comfort FATHER’S and encouragement to those who

have lost a loved one. Have you felt the Holy DAY Spirit moving you toward becoming involved in a church ministry? Please call June 21 Jerry or Anita Thornton at 936-523-0497.

Training will be provided. The 37th Anniversary THE PARISH OFFICE WILL BE of CLOSED ON: Ordination for

Fr. “Bill” Kelly FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2015 Is June 17, 2015.

Do you want to improve your health? Check out this website to learn how to MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

lose weight —www.tops.org.

WEIGH-IN: 6PM; MEETING 6:30PM; LOANER PROGRAM

SM FLC ON THURSDAYS. The rummage sale has been receiving dona-

CALL MILDRED ROSENBERG tions of medical equipment. Since we do not AT 713-504-9362. sell this type of equipment at the sale, St. Mary’s has a loaner program for anyone who is in need. For equipment AA MEETINGS: availability or questions about the program, contact Tom

Schwartz at 936-499-5066. Every Monday evening at We have hospital beds, electric scooter 8 p.m. in St. Mary’s Family Life Center. and many other items available.

Please keep these people in your prayers:

Charles Mock, John Lebau, Ann Clark, Joyce Busa, Donna McCoy-Pavlock, Holly Hall, Taylor Cox, Bill Soderman, Matthew Cook, Florence Lara, Betty Wilcox, Debbie Bachmeyer, Helen Burzynski, Larry Alston, Chad Mock, Pat Wren, Lawrence Dobraski, JoAnn Wiseneske, Neil MacDonald, Colleen Syzdek, Carolyn Warmke, Holly Gilstrap, Alvis Isam, Grant & Shelley Wahle, Laura Pickens, Lance McCartney, Frances King, Lillian Hope Wagner, Jared Williams, Zachary & Olivia Zarskye, Frances Klevenski, Jeff & Matt Thiel, Ray Klevenski, Mitchell Stice, Kacey Butler, Gloria Church, Pat Holt, Jim Bellow, Natalie Hawthorne, Landon Kimich, Lori Holman, Shirley Duncan, Anna Mae Klevenski Kimich, Dolores Hoffart, Dolores Ubanoski, Mel Finch, Jeffery Anderson, Marcy Pavlock, Mark Ulbricht, Ryan Sikes, Sam & Betty Busa, Arnie Alexander, Jarrell Gibson, Dale Bennett, Maureen Snyder, Bettie Guilliams, David & Dorothy Gast, Bill Vicknair, Shirley Hyman, Caleb Berrow, Karen Robertson, Jimmy , James & Ann Smith, Ron Berwick, Barney & Virginia Carver, Rylie Ray, Gay Imhoff, Barbara Herzog, Bobby & Barbara Hyde, Godfrey, Neal Hoskins, Theresa Greenville, Neil Garvis, Tiffany Earley, Bob & Delores Boyett, Bernard Klevenski, Joey Brooker, Pauline Smith, Don Remling, Helen Aikins, Jim & Betty Holland, Gloria Garcia, Reagan Oliver, Louise Swonke, Al & Jackie Uetz, Patricia Lane Phillips, Courtney Duke, Donna Weir, Barney Syzdek,

Janelle Schoeneberg, Judy Turner-Meyer, Emily Dumler, Tim Clark, Robert & Katie Diehl, Anna Mae Smith

When we pray for others, God listens to you & blesses them, and sometimes, when you are safe and happy, remember that someone has prayed for you. St. Mary’s GUARDIAN ANGELS NEWS

C The next officer’s meeting is set for Visit the Shoppe for June 2 at 10am in the FLC. We want to O welcome everyone to BINGO on Tues., Father’s Day Cards June 16 in the hall from 10am til 2pm. Entre and desserts will be R and Gifts! provided, please bring a side dish.

New Inventory is in! N Check the church’s ~~~ website for upcoming WE NOW ACCEPT events at www.smsj.org. E ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ CREDIT & DEBIT CARDS! Guardian Angels Spring Fundraiser R The Guardian Angels will be selling tickets for lunch at Ryan’s Buffet in Conroe after all the Masses on SHOPPE June 7, 14 & 21. The tickets are good for lunch on Saturday, June 27 only between 11am-2pm. The price Please keep our is $12 which includes all-you-can-eat buffet, dessert, drink and tax. men & women in Ryan’s is located at: the military in your 1413 N. Loop 336 West, Conroe, TX You can also call Nancy Schlottman at 936-597-8327. prayers:

Brian Perry E6 & Matthew Perry E5, Josh Wizinsky, Mjr. John , Jason Parsons, Capt. Daniel Hacker, A NOTE ABOUT Lt. Col. John E. Tryon, 1st Lt. USMC Jeff Vickers, Randall Chastant, Capt. Jeff Kocian, Jeremy Gonzales, CONFESSIONS

Ens. Andrew Pfarner, SSG. Rueben Rust, Angel Pena, Cmdr. Jon Haydel, L.Col. Jeremy Angenend, Confessions are heard on Wednesday LCpl. Steven Patrick Bay, LTJG Marcus Cranford, evenings at St. Mary from SFC Bill Tichacek, Lt. Lauren (Osterman) Williams, Kenny Oakes-Army, Nelson Shipley-Navy, 6:30-8:30pm and on Saturday before Sn. Eric Syzdek EIII, Ssgt. USAF Kevin Harrison, Mass from 4:45-5:15pm.

Airman Jeremy R. Schwartz-US Air Force,

HN A. Orlando, PSSR Peyton Irvan-US Navy, If you cannot come at LTC Jason L. Ross, 3rd Class Petty Officer Jake Twining-US Navy these times, you may call Fr. Kelly at 936-894-2016 to schedule an alternate ThE STiTchin’ SiSTErS time. The Stitchin’ Sisters are a group of

A Ladies who love to quilt. If you would like A Choral Jamboree of Choirs to learn to quilt, come Coming to St. Mary! join us at St. Joseph’s May 31st thru July 12th Hall on Wednesday’s Sundays 9am & 10:30am Masses.

from 9:30am until 2pm. (See bulletin insert for dates & choirs)

THE GABRIEL PROJECT PLEASE REMEMBER THOSE is the parish-based crisis pregnancy Intervention WHO HAVE PRECEDED US program. If you would like to assist with this IN DEATH. KEEP THEM AND ministry, please contact Wanda O’Brien at THEIR FAMILIES IN YOUR 936-597-6328 or [email protected] to THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. see how you can put your specific talent to use. If you are some- one in need of the services of THE GABRIEL PROJECT, please Joann Macejewski ~ April 24

(Wife of SM parishioner Mike Macejewski) use the contact information above.

Information will stay confidential. Ernest de Hagen ~ April 29

(Father of SM parishioner Cindi Russell)

Dominos anyone? Amanda Louise Jones ~ April 29 (Daughter-in-law of SM parishioners Anyone and everyone is invited to join the Domino Club. Chester & Joan Jones)

Fun and games will be had by all every Tuesday at Glenn Steven Tomkivits ~ May 6 St. Mary’s Family Life Center from 11am- (Son of Steve & Kathy Tomkivits)

3pm (except on the 3rd Tuesday when there are games in the hall.) Bring a snack to share! Johnny Blaise Kollaja ~ May 8 (Husband of SM parishioner Shelley Kollaja) For more info, call the office 936-894-2223.

St. Mary’s Choristers St. Mary’s Choristers is a group of children from 9-18 years of age. The group sings at Mass and other special events here at St. Mary’s. The goal of our organization is to teach the music of the liturgy to our children, and to inspire them to participate in the sung liturgy that is unique to our Catholic faith. If you are interested in having your child be a part of this exciting organization, please contact Linda Armstrong at 936-825- 0565, email [email protected], or leave your name and contact information with Gail in the office. The choristers rehearse each Wednesday before CCE at 6pm in St. Mary’s Hall. A light snack is provided before CCE. The Bells of St. Mary’s CANTOR & CHOIR St. Mary’s Bell Choir, a group of English handbell ringers, will begin rehearsals on Wednesday, PRACTICE

August 5, at 7:15pm in the music room in the hall. Cantor Practice: Anyone interested in being a part of this exciting Thursdays @ 6:30pm group is invited to participate. The choir is in need Adult Choir Practice: of two additional ringers. You are not required to Thursdays @ 7pm

be able to read music. If you want to be included, For more information, please contact Linda Armstrong: contact: [email protected], or 936-825-0565, or leave your Linda Armstrong @ contact information with Gail 936-825-0565 or in the office. 936-894-2223 Tom & Ann NEW SUMMER SESSION Schwartz will be working in the barn every Thursday from 8am until 3pm All are welcome. You don’t have to be from our Church or Catholic or even Christian to attend. preparing for the next Dates and Time: Rummage Sale on Nov. 7, 2015. Every Wednesday evening from 6:30-8:30pm

JUNE 3 THROUGH AUGUST 26 If you have a pickup, Location: St. Mary Family Life Center, upstairs in Room 200 call Tom at

936-499-5066. Any questions or to register: Call the Office 936-894-2223 or Anita Thornton at 936-523-0497.

A big thank you to everyone involved in our First Annual St. Mary’s Quilt Show! This is a post on Facebook, which pretty much sums up the accolades:

“This was a very beautiful show! I had NO idea what it was going to be like until I got there, or I would have invited everyone I knew who loves quilts, quilting & painted churches. I never knew anything about painted churches either....if you didn't either, Google Texas painted churches. The church is absolutely gorgeous! There were so many beautiful quilts, and anyone can enter a quilt (some were antique quilts). We had very nice lunches from the Dresden Plate Cafe. If I didn't know better I would have thought these ladies had been hosting this quilt show for many years. But, this was their very first one, so hopefully there will be many more.”

Thank you to our many financial sponsors and over 90 Volunteers, from St. Mary’s and beyond, who made this happen! Along with great weather, i.e. No rain during show hours and cool temperatures! And another thing we heard over and over “Everyone is so nice!” Of course, not a surprise to us!

This event was not a fund raiser – our mission was to bring visitors to our beautiful, historic painted church while viewing beautiful quilts. We wanted our guests to have a lovely day, enjoying our beautiful grounds and lunch at our Dresden Plate Café. We wanted our vendors in the Church Hall to be successful. If we were lucky enough to cover our expenses and put money aside for next year’s expenses, we would be happy. In the event of profit, St. Mary/St. Joseph St. Vincent de Paul would be our beneficiary. ALL of this was accomplished!

The numbers: Attendance: 1320 Lunches served: 598

And, although the numbers are not quite final, it looks like St. Vincent de Paul will receive a check for $7,000.00! Not bad for an event that was not a fund raiser!