Parish Handbook

PARISH HANDBOOK

COLUMBIA COUNTY, GA | ST-TERESA.COM 1 IT IS LOVE ALONE THAT GIVES WORTH TO ALL THINGS.

- St. Teresa of Avila

SCHEDULE OF LITURGIES SUNDAY MASS SCHEDULE English: Saturday Vigil 4:30pm; Sunday 9:00am, 12:15pm, 5:00pm Spanish: Sunday 2:00pm Vietnamese: Sunday 10:45am

DAILY MASS SCHEDULE

Monday—Saturday 8:30am Monday—Friday 6:00pm (Wednesday in Spanish)

HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION 7:00pm Vigil, 8:30am, 12:00pm, 7:00pm Bilingual, 9:00pm Vietnamese

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION Saturday 3:00pm - 4:00pm Sunday 10:00am - 10:30am (Vietnamese) 1:00pm - 1:45pm (Spanish)

Monday—Friday 8:00am - 8:25am Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 5:30pm - 5:55pm Wednesday 6:30pm - 7:30pm (Spanish)

ADORATION OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST Monday—Friday 6:00 am—7:30 am (except Thursdays), 9:00 am - 12:00pm Monday 6:30pm - 10:00pm | Wednesday 6:45pm - 7:45pm (Spanish)

DEVOTIONS Sacred Heart of Jesus—First Friday 8:30am Mass Immaculate Heart of Mary—First Saturday 8:30am Mass Divine Mercy Chaplet—Every Friday following 6:00pm Mass

2 From the Pastor’s Desk Dear Parishioners, Since Bishop Gerald Frey established St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church on September 3, 1968 we have been blessed with phenomenal spiritual and physical growth. What began as a handful of faithful founders meeting in a home has grown to a forty-three acre complex with incredible facilities for over 1,900 families. We are a dedicated and faithful Catholic Stewardship parish gifted by God with Time, Talent, and Treasure. Our Parish Handbook is a very valuable tool in helping you decide how to return to God the gifts of Time, Talent, and Treasure He has so generously and freely given you.

Catholic Stewardship is truly a spirituality, a way of living our lives in accord with Gospel values and teachings. It should touch every area of our lives and does if we are properly living it. This Parish Handbook, encompassing almost 100 ministries, events, and opportunities is intended to give you a brief overview of what is going on in our very large and wonderfully diverse parish. It is my prayer and hope that it will guide you in how to get involved in our parish life. The opportunities are almost endless. There is something for everyone and everyone should be involved in something! We want and need your involvement! And I truly believe that God expects it from you. He constantly gives to us and looks to see what we do with it!

I want to thank all of you who have served this parish so well with your past gifts of Time, Talent, and Treasure and I welcome all of our newcomers who might be looking at what our wonderful parish has to offer for the first time. I challenge you to do more, to stretch yourself, to make a sacrifice! God, the Father, sacrificed His only Son for us. Shouldn’t we be willing to make a sacrifice for Him in the areas of our Time, Talent, and Treasure? It is such an exciting and challenging time here at St. Teresa’s as we strive to fulfill our mission of “Called to Serve.” Please talk to God and prayerfully consider what God is calling you to do. He has a specific plan for each one of us and the parish family of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church will be blessed by your participation!

God Bless You, Fr. Mike Ingram, Pastor TABLE OF CONTENTS Clergy 4 Facility Ministry 20 Staff & Parish Council 5 Finance 21 General Parish Information 6 Parish Life 22 Church Etiquette 8 Stewardship 25 Sacraments 10 Worship 26 Christian Service 12 Catholic Funeral Guidelines 30 Communications/Get Connected 16 Deanery Resources 30 Education & Evangelization 17 Growing Together in Faith 31 3 CLERGY

Rev. Mike Ingram, Pastor (706) 863-4956 Ext. 129 [email protected] Rev. Michael Roverse, Parochial Vicar (706) 863-4956 Ext. 110 [email protected] Rev. Gonzalo Meza, Parochial Vicar (706) 863-4956 Ext. 108 [email protected] Rev. Theodore Agba, Parochial Vicar (706) 863-4956 Ext. 105 [email protected] Rev. Mr. Raymond Adriano, Deacon (706) 339-3917 [email protected] Rev. Mr. Daniel Craig, Deacon (706) 738-7457 [email protected] Rev. Dr. Kerry Diver, Deacon (706) 840-8429 [email protected] Rev. Mr. William Johnson, Deacon (706) 855-8087 [email protected] Rev. Mr. Robert Kepshire, Deacon (706) 726-3177 [email protected] Rev. Mr. Joseph Soparas, Deacon (706) 364-9289 [email protected]

PRAYER FOR V OCATIONS

O God, hear my prayer And let my cry come unto You. Bless our Diocese of Savannah with many vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and religious life. Give the men and women You call the light to understand Your gift and the love to follow always in the footsteps of Your priestly Son. Amen

4 PARISH OFFICE Parish Office: (706) 863-4956 Faith Formation: (706) 863-0252 Preschool/MDO: (706) 447-4522 Fax: 706-863-5001

Office Hours: Mon-Thurs 8:00am-4:00pm; Fri 8:00am-3:00pm After Hours Emergency Number: 706-288-6114 (Please use only in the case of a life or death situation) Terri Vigna, Pastoral Assistant [email protected] Patti Little, [email protected] Executive Administrative Assistant Kathy Ecks, Receptionist [email protected] Sharon Baine, Office Assistant [email protected] Susan Hoeppel, Office Assistant [email protected] Lauren Francisco, Communications [email protected] Kimberly Lies, Music Director [email protected] Miriam Martin, Director of Faith Formation [email protected] Ana Couto, Assistant Faith Formation [email protected] Bill Fox, Assistant Faith Formation [email protected] Nicole Durrwachter, [email protected] Preschool/MDO Director Mike Harbuck, Facilities [email protected] Ashley Brown, Youth Minister [email protected] Mary Farias, Spanish Office Assistant [email protected] Celina LaChance, [email protected] Special Event Coordinator PARISH COUNCIL The Parish Council is the representative body charged with the responsibility of speaking for all parishioners in good standing by advising the Pastor on all parish activities, plans and programs designed to teach, nourish and propagate our Roman Catholic

Contact information for Parish Council members is available on the directory insert and on our website at www.st-teresa.com/parish-council. 5 GENERAL PARISH INFORMATION

Contact information for each ministry is located on the Ministry Contact List inserted into the handbook. Contact information is also available on our website at www.st-teresa.com.

PARISH REGISTRATION Newcomers are asked to register with the Parish Office. Registration forms are available in the office or register online at www.st-teresa.com. Please let the Parish Office know when you have any changes to your contact information and please let us know if you leave the parish.

BULLETIN ANNOUNCEMENTS Send bulletin announcements to [email protected] or complete the form on our website at www.st-teresa.com/bulletin. Guidelines: Submit information via e-mail as a Word document, Arial font; 10 pitch; standard letter format (do not use all caps or bold). Information should be grammatically correct and in complete sentences (no slang). Graphics may be included and will be used as space permits. Deadlines: Announcements are due by 4:00pm Mondays two weeks before the bulletin date. Bulletin deadlines may be revised during holidays. A schedule of bulletin deadlines is published in the weekly bulletin.

ELECTRONIC MEDIA ANNOUNCEMENTS To submit an announcement for our website, electronic signs, Facebook or our parish app, please send to [email protected] at least two weeks in advance of the requested announcement date.

OFFICE VOLUNTEERS Office volunteers assist in the Parish Office with answering telephones, mailings, filing, data entry, correspondence, compiling Welcome packets, writing gift acknowledgements, mailing bulletins to shut-ins, general office duties and projects. Please contact the office if you are interested in volunteering.

MASS INTENTIONS, MEMORIAL CARDS AND FLOWERS A Mass intention can be requested as prayerful support to a family whose loved one is deceased or a way of prayerfully celebrating birthdays, anni- versaries, etc. Available upon request at the Parish Office with a suggested donation of $10.00. Please call well in advance if a specific date is needed. Memorials may be made to the general church fund or the building fund. Call a few weeks in advance to donate flowers for the altar in memory or in honor of a loved one. Suggested donation is $75.00 per arrangement.

6 GENERAL PARISH INFORMATION

FACILITY REQUESTS To request the use of a facility, please complete the Facility Request Form on our website at www.st-teresa.com/facility-request.

COLUMBARIUM We have created a spiritual home, in a garden setting, where our deceased loved ones will be prayed and cared for by our community, families, and friends in faith and hope of the Resurrection for generations to come. For more information on purchasing a reservation, please contact the parish office for an appointment.

FAITH FORMATION PROGRAM Encourages life-long faith development for all ages within the parish family. Refer to weekly updates in the Weekly Bulletin and detailed information on pages 17-18 of this handbook.

THE SOUTHERN CROSS - DIOCESAN NEWSPAPER The Southern Cross is the official newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Savannah. Each household in the Diocese is asked to donate $10.00 per year. Envelopes are available at the Parish Office. Please make checks payable to St. Teresa of Avila (with annotation on the memo line) and deposit in the collection basket or mail to the Parish Office.

VIRTUS Protecting God’s Children is a child sexual abuse awareness and prevention program sponsored by the Diocese of Savannah. All employees and volunteers in the diocese must attend one Virtus session and be renewed every five years. If planning on attending, please register online at www.virtusonline.org. The current schedule is posted at www.diosav.org. Contact Miriam Martin at 706-863-0252 or [email protected].

7 CHURCH ETIQUETTE

HERE ARE SOME THOUGHTS ON CHURCH ETIQUETTE THAT YOU PROBABLY ALREADY KNOW, AND FROM TIME-TO-TIME BEARS REMINDING. OUR ATTENDANCE AT CHURCH IS TO SHOW PROPER REVERENCE TO GOD AND WE SHOULD MAINTAIN AN ENVIRONMENT OF WORSHIP AND TRY TO REDUCE DISTRACTIONS.

GUIDELINES FOR THE RECEPTION OF COMMUNION

As Catholics, we fully participate in the celebration of the Eucharist when we receive Holy Communion and we are encouraged to receive Communion devoutly and frequently. In order to be properly disposed to receive Communion, participants should not be conscious of grave sin and normally should have fasted for one hour. Christ gave up everything; surely we can give up snacks for an hour before communion time. When we approach the Priest, Deacon, or the Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist to receive Communion, we make a simple bow as a gesture of reverence, and respond clearly “Amen” when the Body and Blood of our Lord is given to us. We receive the Body with our hands outstretched and raised, one hand over the other or with our tongue (opening our mouths and keeping our hands clasped as in prayer). We receive the Blood of Christ from the cup and take a small sip. After receiving communion, we return to the pew where we sit or kneel and pray until the priest has cleared the altar and returned to his chair.

A person who is conscious of grave sin is not to receive the Body and Blood of the Lord without prior sacramental confession except for a grave reason where there is no opportunity for confession. In this case, the person is to be mindful of the obligation to make an act of perfect contrition, including the intention of confessing as soon as possible (canon 916). Frequent reception of the Sacrament of Penance is encouraged.

Within the Catholic Church, we practice what may be called “closed” communion. This means we limit the reception of the Body and Blood to practicing Catholics in good standing with the Church. While many churches of the reformation practice “open” communion where all are welcomed to receive, Catholics are asked to refrain from receiving communion from other denominations as this sends a signal you believe as they do. Non-Catholic friends or family members are always invited and welcome to come forward at Holy Communion time, with arms crossed over chest, to receive a special blessing. 8 CHURCH ETIQUETTE

ACT W ITH DUE REVERENCE

We believe that the Eucharist is the Body and Blood of our Lord. The presence of the Divine in our midst calls for a deeper response from us. It is traditional to reverence the Lord by making the sign of the Cross as we bless ourselves with Holy Water when we enter the Church, by genuflecting or bowing when we enter the pews, and preparing ourselves by kneeling or sitting in silent prayer prior to the start of Mass.

Mass begins with the Sign of the Cross and it ends with the Sign of the Cross. By coming late or leaving early you are not fulfilling your Sunday Obligation in attending Mass. Some people leave Mass directly after receiving the Body and Blood of Christ without even taking the time to reflect on whom they have just received. When we make the effort to go back to our seat and reflect on receiving the Holy Eucharist it is the perfect time to thank Jesus for coming into our lives in such an intimate way. We wait to leave the Church until after the recessional song has finished out of love and honor for Our Lord.

DRESS W ITH DUE REVERENCE Dressing for Mass is simply a matter of showing proper respect for God, and for others around you. It is not about showing off one’s finery-as many do not own “fine” clothes. However, one should always wear clothes that are modest, clean, and if at all possible, the nicest clothes one has. Remember, God deserves our best!

CHILDREN It is important to bring our children to Mass and to have them involved in the Mass. We need to be respectful of those around us, and if our children are having a bad day, please retreat to one of the training rooms so as not to disrupt others’ worship. There are windows to observe the Mass and speakers to hear the Word of the Lord. While we can’t always control our youngster’s urges, we can encourage them to use the restroom before Mass begins. If we have to excuse ourselves during Mass to safely accompany our young children, we need to exit quietly by the side of the church. Remember, we all came to worship.

9 SACRAMENTS

SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM The priest or deacon is the ordinary minister of Baptism. Attendance at Baptism Preparation Class is necessary for parents prior to the Baptism of their children. The Preparation Classes are offered the months of January, March, May, July, September and November. These consist of a Saturday 3-hour session. Class times include video instruction, class discussions, and Q & A. Godparents are also welcome to the class. Normally, two godparents are chosen, one of whom must be a believing and practicing Catholic who is confirmed. If the Catholic godparent is not a member of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church, he/she must provide a letter of permission from his/her local pastor to be the godparent here. Please contact the Parish Office for information on dates, times, and to register. Announcements prior to classes are also made at Mass and through the Weekly Bulletin. Baptisms are scheduled by appointment with none being scheduled during Lent. To register, call 706-863-4956.

BAPTISM PREPARATION FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN Children, age 7 and older who have not been baptized, are given baptismal preparation on a one-to-one basis. Please contact the Faith Formation Office at 706-863-0252.

SACRAMENT OF THE MOST HOLY EUCHARIST We can worthily receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ at all Masses. Consult page 2 of this handbook or the Weekly Bulletin for Mass times.

SACRAMENT OF FIRST HOLY COMMUNION This sacrament is celebrated in the Spring of the 2nd grade at St. Teresa of Avila. The program consists of regular attendance at Faith Formation classes during the 1st and 2nd grades, as well as a family retreat. Please contact the Faith Formation Office at 706-863-0252.

SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION TO HOMEBOUND/SICK Eucharist Ministers can bring Holy Communion to parishioners who become seriously sick, are homebound due to a disability, or to permanent residents of local nursing homes or assisted living facilities. Please contact the Church Office at 706-863-4956.

10 SACRAMENTS

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated in the 9th grade year. Candidates must have participated in on-going faith formation and Confirmation Prep 1 and 2 classes prior to the reception of the Sacrament.

SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available throughout the week. The schedule is on page 2 of this handbook, in the bulletin and on our website. Appointments at other times may be made by calling the Parish Office. Communal Penance Services are celebrated during Advent and Lent. Check the Weekly Bulletin for dates and times. First Reconciliation is celebrated in the 2nd grade year.

SACRAMENT OF MARRIAGE The Augusta Deanery hosts four Marriage Preparation sessions during the year. Our parish is responsible for the Spring session. To begin sacramental preparation for marriage please contact the Parish Office at least six months prior to the anticipated wedding date.

HOLY ORDERS Anyone who is called to a possible vocation to the permanent deaconate or to the priesthood, please contact the priest of your choice to begin a dialogue about how to discern this vocation.

ANOINTING OF THE SICK If there is a need for this sacrament, or you are going to be hospitalized, please contact the Parish Office immediately so that the sick may be conscious to receive the sacraments. Office: 706-863-4956 After Office Hours EMERGENCY: 706-288-6114. (Please use the emergency number only in the case of a life or death situation.)

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION FOR ADULTS (RCIA) This is the process through which adults come into the Catholic Church and is also open to Catholics interested in learning more about their faith. Adults learn the teachings, customs and liturgy of the Catholic Church. The program runs from September until three weeks after Easter. If you would like to sponsor a person coming into the Church, you are required to be a practicing, registered parishioner in a Catholic church. Please call Deacon Danny Craig to register for RCIA or to be a sponsor at 706-738-7457 or [email protected].

11 CHRISTIAN SERVICE

The goal of the Christian Service Ministry is to participate in activities that promote the involvement of parishioners in both charitable and social justice related projects, and to serve as a liaison between the parish at-large and various community organizations.

BEREAVED LUNCHEON MINISTRY Ministry members provide funeral luncheon receptions at the Parish Life Center for bereaved family members and friends or deliver to the family home.

BREAD MINISTRY Every morning, pick up day old bread from Publix, 4274 Washington Road, Evans Town Center, and deliver it to Catholic Social Services and Augusta Rescue Mission. Volunteers are also needed every Tuesday evening at 9:00pm to pick up bread from Panera Bread and deliver it on Wednesday morning to United We Care.

CARING HANDS MINISTRY Homemade Meals for the Body and Soul. Ministry members meet in the Parish Life Center kitchen to prepare, cook, and package several meals for the freezer. These meals are then delivered to parishioners and their families who have a need, for example, hospitalization, new baby, illness, deployments, shut-ins, etc.

CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES PANTRY A monthly collection of non-perishable food and monetary donations to assist in feeding the needy. Parishioners are asked to bring food donations and place them in the wooden chest in the Narthex. Donations can also be made at any time during the month in the lock box for monetary con- tributions (checks payable to Catholic Social Services). Volunteers deliver items to CSS, Columbia County Cares or United We Care.

12 CHRISTIAN SERVICE

CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES (CSS) Catholic Social Services offers emergency assistance to the homeless and those threatened with homelessness, and to individuals and families in need. Volunteer opportunities abound and include general office work, answering phones, case management (training is provided), working in the Food Pantry, listening to problems, and working with Sister Roddy to “find volunteer work that is comfortable for you.” There are also volunteer opportunities at the CSS Thrift Shop sorting items and being a cashier.

CSS Office is located at 811 12th St., Augusta, (706) 722-3661

CSS Thrift Shop is located at 2108 Broad St., Augusta, (706) 737-8286

CHILD ENRICHMENT, INC.- CHILDREN’S CLOTHES CLOSET Volunteers sort and distribute clothing on Tuesday and Friday mornings as well as on occasional Saturday morning. Volunteers are needed to collect donations from retailers and deliver surplus items to other non-profit agencies. All parishioners can support this effort by donating gently used clothing to help children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse, neglect or endangerment. The collection bin is in the Education Building.

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY Ministry members get together Wednesdays from 1:30-3:30pm in the Parish Life Center to knit and/or crochet for people who are going through a difficult time in their lives, such as illness or loss. The shawls, “Chemo-Caps,” and other articles are tangible reminders to each hurting person that they have been covered in God’s love through prayer, comfort, and compassion.

13 CHRISTIAN SERVICE

KAIROS PRISON MINISTRY The Kairos Prison is a ministry of people drawn from a broad range of denominational churches. The mission of Kairos is to bring Christ’s love and forgiveness to all incarcerated individuals, their families, and those who work with them, and to assist in the transition of becoming a productive citizen. Volunteers attend training prior to each retreat inside the prison as well as have an annual security clearance conducted by the prison. The primary objective of the three day retreat is to prepare selected prison residents for life in an ongoing Christian community.

KAIROS COOKIES & HYGIENE KITS Members of this ministry organize twice yearly collections (August and February) for home-made cookies for the prisoners. Cookies are to be put in plastic bags and placed in appropriate receptacles in the lobby of the Parish Life Center. Hygiene kits are collected in December (tooth brush, tooth paste, combs, soap, lotion, shampoo etc.) to distributed by the Prison Chaplain at Christmas.

MASTER’S TABLE SOUP KITCHEN On the 2nd Wednesday of each month, ministry members gather at the Master’s Table Soup Kitchen, 842 Fenwick St. in downtown Augusta, to prepare and serve over 300 meals to needy people. St. Teresa’s parish has been involved in this very rewarding ministry since 1988 and our faithful commitment is greatly appreciated by those whom we serve.

ROSARY MAKING FOR THE MISSIONS This ministry meets on the 1st & 3rd Monday of each month at 9:30am-12:00pm in the Parish Life Center, large conference room. There are no commitments; supplies are provided, and all are welcome, including children. Experience rosary making and know you are helping to spread our Catholic faith to those less fortunate than ourselves.

ST. TERESA’S SOUP KITCHEN OUTREACH On the 4th Saturday of every month at 9:30am, adult and youth volunteers meet in the Parish Life Center kitchen to prepare sack lunches and a meal, with a monetary contribution for the monthly groceries being provided by an anonymous parish family. There is usually some time for prayer before we drive in caravan to Christ Episcopal Church, 1904 Greene St., Augusta to serve the needy, clean-up, and return around 1:30pm.

14 CHRISTIAN SERVICE

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL COORDINATED HEALTH SERVICES St. Vincent de Paul operates a comprehensive clinic to the homeless population of Augusta on an appointment basis at 432 8th Street, Augusta. It provides primary, and specialty health services on a daily basis, Monday– Friday, from 8:30am-4:30pm. On the 1st weekend of each month, volunteers collect a monetary offering after all the Masses.

THE GOOD SAMARITAN RESPITE CENTER The Center, located at 2110 Broad St., Augusta, is designed for residency for homeless males and females, when more recuperative care and more permanent housing options are needed.

FRIENDLY VISIT MINISTRY The Friendly Visit Ministry provides socialization and establishes a connection between St. Teresa of Avila parish and those that are unable to be physically present for events and activities. The volunteer focuses on being a friendly face who visits with parishioners on a regular basis

15 COMMUNICATIONS

This ministry is a ministry at the service of other ministries, playing a role in planning, coordinating and communicating parish news and events.

Volunteers that have experience in one or more of the following to assist with communicating parish news and events.

Graphic Design Design graphics for website, social media, digital signage, and print media.

Photography Take pictures at parish events for use by the Communications Ministry in a variety of media formats.

Event Promotion Promote designated events at parish, deanery and diocesan level as well as the community at large.

Newsletters / Writing Articles Assist with establishing a parish newsletter and writing articles for publication.

Audio Editing / Podcasting Use audio recording equipment to record homilies and edit audio for publishing on parish podcast. Record designated parish events such as the parish mission or guest speakers. GET CONNECTED! Please visit us online at www.st-teresa.com

Like us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/ SaintTeresaOfAvilaCatholicChurch

Download our parish app at: www.myparishapp.com 16 EDUCATION & EVANGELIZATION

The goal of the Education and Evangelization ministry is to provide quality, educational programs for all ages, to instruct and promote our Catholic faith within our parish community while also reaching outside our parish to invite people to believe in Jesus Christ as Catholics, or renew their Catholic faith, and to equip Catholics with the tools to further this invitation.

Preschool/Mother’s Day Out The purpose of our program is to provide care, education & development for children ages 12 months - 4 years to their greatest potential: spiritually, mentally, physically, emotionally, and socially. Volunteers are needed to assist with special projects, sorting curriculum, re-shelving books in the preschool library, and assisting with the annual book fair. Our program session is August through May; Monday-Friday 9:30am - 1:30pm.

Faith Formation—Grades K-7 Volunteer catechists are provided with training in methodology, curriculum, theology, personal growth and spiritual development.

Grades K-5: Sunday and Summer sessions are targeted to meet the needs of the K-5 child. We use the Faith and Word Edition of Blest Are We. Catechists use best practices in the development of lesson plans that address multiple learning styles.

Grades 6-7: Wednesday and Summer sessions meet the unique needs of middle school students by bringing the middle grades together in an environment designed for their age group allowing them to form a faith community of like minded youth.

Vacation Bible School A fun and exciting environment to learn about our faith for children ages 3 years to 5th grade. Adult, high school, and middle school volunteers lead and teach the program typically held the first full week of June.

17 EDUCATION & EVANGELIZATION

Confirmation Preparation, 8th & 9th Grade Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation begins at Baptism through the commitment of parents and Godparents to raise the child in the Catholic faith. The formal catechesis that occurs in kindergarten through ninth grade lays the foundation and provides the support needed by families to nurture their child’s faith development. Confirmation Prep begins in the 8th grade and concludes in the spring of the students 9th grade.

Youth Ministry Our youth ministry provides resources and faith experiences leading teens closer to Christ. Opportunities for teens to grow in their faith are accomplished through their experiencing vibrant Eucharistic spirituality. Volunteers are provided various and continuous opportunities to develop their own faith to better meet the needs of our youth. We have programs for middle school and high school students.

Young Adult This group is for young adults, ages 18 (graduated high school) through age 25. A balance of social & spiritual activities and events are scheduled throughout the year. Ministry volunteers give talks, lead retreats, and assist with scheduling and organizing events.

Adult Education Adult programs such as Theology of the Body, Book Studies, Guest Speakers, Men’s and Women’s Retreats, and other programs, are offered to the parish throughout the year. Please see the Weekly Bulletin or parish calendar for upcoming events and studies.

Awakening Faith This 11-week series is a conversation based program that gives inactive or marginally active Catholics a forum where they can reconnect with their faith. It is offered three times a year (after Christmas, Easter and Labor Day). Watch for meeting dates, times and locations on the web and in the Weekly Bulletin.

Bible Studies (Available in English & Spanish) This program for adults and confirmed teens is combined with social time and is offered on Sundays and various times throughout the week. Included are topics from Sacred Scriptures, with many answers provided to share with your family. For more information or to register, please refer to our Weekly Bulletin for meeting dates, times, locations, and contacts. 18 EDUCATION & EVANGELIZATION

Community Outreach & Evangelization This ministry seeks to reach outside our Parish to the community at large by inviting people to believe in Jesus Christ as Catholics or to become active again in the Catholic faith, and to equip Catholics with the tools to further this invitation. The ministry works to identify methods of outreach as well as to provide parishioners with information to help extend such an invitation.

Lighthouse CD’s Lighthouse Catholic Media provides, at a marginal cost, professionally recorded presentations on high-quality audio CDs from leading Catholic clergy, theologians, and lay speakers. They are inspirational, educational, and are a tool to enhance your spiritual growth. Topics change periodically and the CDs are available for purchase in the Narthex.

Parish Library Our Parish Library is located in the lobby of the Education Building. Parish- ioners may check out books and videos at no cost. There are a wide variety of topics including, bibles, catechisms, saints, doctrine, theology, spirituality, and apologetics. Volunteers review, catalogue, and shelve materials as well as track checked-out materials.

Pro Life This program supports the efforts of the CSRA and Georgia Pro Life Community in defending the sanctity and dignity of all human life. We strive to educate and inform parishioners about Pro Life activities. The ministry meets monthly.

Vocations - Elijah Cup The goal of this ministry is to pray for vocations. An individual or family takes home a consecrated chalice (Elijah Cup) after each Sunday Mass for the following week. Each day during the following week they are asked to pray for vocations and for the priests, deacons, religious, and seminarians of our diocese. Please sign-up on line at www.st-teresa.com/elijah-cup or calling the ministry contact.

Women’s Bible Study Women, young and old, new to bible studies or seasoned, and at all levels of our Catholic faith are welcomed to this study based on a Catholic Scripture Studies program. We study individual books of the Bible. Please join us for education, faith building and fellowship as we walk on this journey together on Thursdays from 10:00am to 12:00pm in the Parish Life Center.

19 FACILITY MINISTRY

The goal of the Facility Ministry is to develop a preventative maintenance program for all of the parish facilities and grounds and to oversee and plan for required maintenance implementation. This ministry ensures that the parish facilities and grounds are maintained in a cost effective manner.

Do you have a specific skill that would possibly be helpful in maintaining the parish grounds and facilities? Would you be willing to provide this skill on an “as needed” basis?

Carpentry, plumbing, painting, electrical, heating and air conditioning, contracting, etc. are a few of the areas where the parish needs your help.

To request the use of a facility, please complete the Facility Request Form on our website at www.st-teresa.com/facility-request.

Please help us take care of our church campus by reporting any facility concerns or issues you observe by completing the form at www.st-teresa.com/facility-issue.

WHAT IS GOD CALLING YOU TO DO? In Luke 10:17-24 we read how Jesus had sent out 72 of His followers to preach, teach and heal, and they returned with glowing reports of success. Jesus had entrusted these relatively unknown men and women, each one with different gifts and talents, with the same work of the kingdom that He had given to the 12 apostles.

Jesus did not want to limit the work of the gospel to just a chosen few. He has confidence in each one of us. We are called, empowered, and expected to bring others to Him. So none of us should feel inadequate or too fearful. All we have to remember is that it is not so much what we do, but what we allow the Spirit to do through us.

Sharing our gifts of time and talent is one way of giving thanks to God for the blessings he has bestowed on us. What is God calling you to do?

20 FINANCE

The Finance ministry is an advisory ministry appointed by the Pastor. Ministry members assist other ministries with preparing and reviewing budgets for all parish programs. They also review monthly financial statements to ensure that proper procedures are followed and that the parish maintains a viable financial position. Members foster the concept of stewardship and endowments, and make recommendations to the Parish Coun- cil as to the method of financing various projects. To discuss qual- ifications to serve on this ministry, please contact Father Mike

Money Counters Ministry members gather on Monday mornings to prepare the offertory for deposit and posting.

21 PARISH LIFE

The Parish Life Ministry is responsible for organizing and overseeing activities to foster a sense of belonging among the members of our parish community.

American Heritage Girls American Heritage Girls is the premier national character development organization for young women that embraces Christian values and encourages family involvement.

Fellowship After Mass Ministry members coordinate offering coffee, lemonade, and light refreshments after the Sunday, 9:00am Mass from September through May. This offers an opportunity for parishioners and visitors to foster fellowships and build community within the parish.

Hispanic Ministry The Hispanic ministry is available to assist Spanish speaking parishioners in the office on Wednesdays and Fridays, 9:00am - 12:00pm and 1:00pm - 4:00pm.

Journey of Hope—Divorced Ministry This program addresses the concerns of divorced/separated Catholics by offering support and addressing issues that arise as a result of divorce. The strong emphasis on prayer, scripture, and church teachings leads to healing and a better relationship with Christ. This is not a therapy group, but is guided by trained, peer facilitators who have similar life experiences and are willing to share their time and talent to help others. Registration and class times will be listed in the Weekly Bulletin.

22 PARISH LIFE Knights of Columbus—Terrance Cook Council #8495 The K of C is a Catholic men’s fraternal society that promotes social and intellectual fellowship among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious, social welfare, war relief, and public works. Volunteerism informed by Christian concern is the hallmark of the K of C. Many of the activities are designed to raise money for charitable organizations in the local area. Any K of C member in good standing is invited to join our meetings on the second Monday of each month from 7:00-9:00pm.

Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary The K of C Ladies Auxiliary was formed to assist the Knights of Columbus Council #8495 in their mission to support St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church and its pastor, people, and programs. Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted, mutual aid and assistance are offered to their sick, disabled, and needy members. We meet on the second Monday of each month from 7:00pm - 9:00pm.

Newcomers Welcome Ministry members are dedicated to welcoming our new parishioners into the parish faith family through periodic telephone calls and newcomer gatherings held several times a year after the 12:15pm Sunday Mass.

Senior’s Group Parishioners over the age of 50 meet on the 3rd Friday of each month at 12:00pm in the Education Building for fellowship and informative programs (guest speakers provide information pertinent for this age group). Members are asked to bring a covered dish for the potluck lunch and may also bring a guest.

Soup and Sandwiches This ministry coordinates the free light meal of soup and sandwiches following the Stations of the Cross on Friday evenings during Lent in the Parish Life Center. Parish Council ministries rotate providing a variety of soups and sandwiches as well as serving them. The evening offers opportunities for spiritual reflection as well as for fellowship with other parish families.

St. T’s Rollers This fun loving group of bowlers (18 years or older) meets on Wednesdays at 6:30pm at Fort Gordon Lanes. The bowling season lasts 30 weeks and runs September through April. Substitutes are always needed. 23 PARISH LIFE

St. Teresa’s Council of Catholic Women Our mission is to promote Catholic unity with social, service, and spiritual activities both at the parish and community level through sacramental programs, guest speakers, addressing national and international concerns, crafts and demonstrations, social time, and fund raisers to support designated charitable causes. All ladies registered at St. Teresa’s are invited to join the CCW. Meetings are held on the 2nd Sunday of each month, September through May at 1:00pm in the Education Building.

Widows and Widowers Group The Widows and Widowers Group is a once a month dining-out at different restaurants from September to May. This provides fellowship and the chance to meet parishioners. We meet the second Tuesday of each month.

24 STEWARDSHIP

Stewardship is about giving gratitude to God through our time, talent, and treasure. We recognize that all we have ultimately comes from God, and we thank the Lord in three ways: our TIME in prayer, TALENT of ministry work and weekly offertory TREASURE. The Stewardship Minis- try is committed to assisting all of our parishioners to become good stewards of their time, talent, and treasure.

Ministry members are committed to helping all of our parishioners become good stewards of their time, talent, and treasure through encouraging involvement in our parish community. This ministry also evaluates the stewardship efforts of the parish, assisting with the Stewardship Treasure Renewal, and following up with ministry leaders concerning ministry participation and recruitment of volunteers.

Catholics should learn more about stewardship and what it is and how to use these gifts to glorify God. Our ministry is dedicated to helping parishioners understand how to use their gifts more fully as God intended. We need people who are willing to assist with the planning and hosting programs that teach about stewardship.

25 WORSHIP

The goal of the Worship Ministry is to promote the spirit of prayerfulness, community, and equality at all St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church liturgies.

Altar Guild This ministry is responsible for seeing that the sanctuary is appropriately decorated for all liturgical events and seasons. Volunteers perform various tasks such as laundering linens, making and changing altar clothes, maintaining the plants in the Narthex and church, arranging flowers, and decorating for the many feast days.

Altar Servers Altar Servers are a well-trained and dedicated group of adults and youth (ages 11 and up) who serve at all the Masses. Duties include carrying the processional cross and candles, holding the missal for the priest celebrant, assisting with the offertory gifts, etc. Youth volunteers are scheduled on a rotating basis, and adult volunteers are scheduled for special Masses and as needed for funerals.

Extra-Ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion These ministers assist the priest and deacons at Mass by distributing the Body and Blood of Christ to our parishioners. Ministers are trained and certified as required by the Diocese of Savannah and are scheduled on a rotating basis, usually to Masses of their choice.

Adult Home Rosary and Fellowship This is a small, in-home Rosary and Fellowship group for adults meeting on Tuesday evenings from 7:00 - 8:00pm.

26 W ORSHIP Extra-Ordinary Ministers to the Homebound These ministers bring the Body and Blood of Christ to the sick and homebound who desire to receive, but are unable to attend Mass. This includes those in hospitals, assisted living and nursing homes, as well as those who are homebound. Special training is offered and differs from that received for ministering at Mass. Virtus training is also required.

Greeters Greeters welcome parishioners at each weekend Mass, Holy Day Masses, and at funerals as well as assist Ushers with distribution of materials and bulletins as needed. Volunteers are asked to arrive 20 minutes prior to their assigned Mass or funeral. Any registered parishioner with a bright smile and a warm handshake is welcome to volunteer.

Lectors Adult, as well as confirmed high school youth, proclaim the Word of God with the first and second readings at all Sunday Masses and other liturgical services. They are trained to read and understand the scriptures and follow proper liturgical protocol, and are assigned to a Mass of their preference on a rotating basis.

Ushers This ministry provides a group of adult and high school volunteers whose goals are to provide a positive interface with parishioners before, during, and after Mass. They seat parishioners, take up the offertory collection, direct the Communion flow, and hand out bulletins after Mass. They are scheduled to a Mass of their choosing and have opportunities to serve on Holy Days and at other special liturgical celebrations. Ushers also assist those in need of a wheelchair or assistive hearing device.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament The Blessed Sacrament is exposed for Adoration in front of the Tabernacle every Monday-Friday, 9:00am-12:00pm and Monday evening, 6:30pm— 10:00pm. Participants spend ½ hour to 1 hour (whatever is most conven- ient) in prayer or spiritual reading. Come and spend an hour with Jesus! Call to schedule your time.

Intercessory Prayer Line We have over 50 prayer angels, who as intercessors of the Lord, dedicate their time daily to pray for the intentions of others. Your confidentiality is respected, and your intentions are not listed in the Weekly Bulletin.

27 W ORSHIP

Cantors (Open to Young Adult and Adults) Cantors lead the singing at every weekend Mass and at Liturgies throughout the year. They are required to attend rehearsals monthly either alone with the Music Director or in a group setting.

Parish Choir The Parish Choir sings a variety of music from early classical to a more relaxed style at the 9:00am Sunday Mass. Piano and organ and sometimes clarinet, flute, strings, or brass accompany them. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evening at 6:30-7:45pm and at 8:15am on Sundays.

Youth Choir (Open to 8th Grade to Adults) The Youth Choir sings Contemporary Christian music at the 5:00pm Sunday evening Mass. Members also participate in liturgies offered at Christmas, Holy Week, Easter and other special Liturgies. Singers, guitarists, flautists, clarinetists, drummers, and pianists lead parishioners in song and praise. Rehearsals are generally Wednesday evenings from 8:00-9:15PM in the Choir Loft and on Sundays at 4:00pm before Mass.

Youth Band (Open to 8th Grade to Adults) The Youth Band plays Contemporary Christian Music at the 5PM Youth Mass. They are a mix of guitar, bass, piano, organ, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and drums . They also serve at other Special Liturgies throughout the year. Rehearsals are on Wednesdays from 8-9:15PM in the Choir Loft and on Sundays at 4pm before Mass combined with the Youth Choir. Substitute keyboard players are always welcome to fill in when needed.

St. Teresa’s Children’s Choir (Open to boys & girls,1st-7th grades) The Children’s Choir sings for Christmas and Easter. Dates for sign-ups and rehearsals will be published in the Weekly Bulletin and announced by the Lectors at all the Masses.

28 W ORSHIP Christmas Concert Choir The Christmas Choir will be performing “Noel, Night of Everlasting Love” with the Columbia County Orchestra.

Americana Choir The Americana Choir performs at the International Gala Talent Show, usually held in September. Sign-ups begin in August.

Hispanic Choir The Hispanic Choir serves at the 2:00pm Spanish Mass and other Liturgies.

Vietnamese Choir The Vietnamese Choir serves at the 10:45am Vietnamese Mass and other Vietnamese Liturgies.

Sound Ministry This ministry provides the technical sound support for the Music Ministry, weddings, funerals and all other events that require sound amplification. Experience in the use of sound mixing boards, processors, amplifiers, microphones, and speakers is helpful but not necessary.

29 CATHOLIC FUNERAL GUIDELINES

THE UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS PROVIDE THE FOLLOWING FUNERAL GUIDELINES

 Following the ancient traditions of humankind and the Catholic community, the Church asks us to celebrate the funeral of those gone forth in a liturgy with their bodily remains present. This shows proper and appropriate respect for the vessel indwelt by the Holy Spirit and used throughout their journey of faith here on earth.

 The funeral Liturgy generally takes place in the Church at the celebration of the Eucharist. Following the celebration, the church recommends the respectful internment or entombment of the body. While cremation is allowed, it is desired that this be done after the church service.

 Following the cremation, the cremains should be buried or entombed. If significant reasons to depart from these guidelines exist, reasonable accommodations may be made. Any modified arrangements should be discussed with a priest, preferably before the need arises.

DEANERY RESOURCES COLUMBIA COUNTY CARES This Food Pantry is supported by Columbia County and local churches; located at 1959 Appling-Harlem Hwy in Appling. Hours of operation are Tuesday-Thursday from 9:30am-4:00pm and pre-registration is required before acquiring food.

SAINT PAUL RADIO - FM 91.1 Catholic radio is available in our area! St. Paul Radio Inc. is a non-profit corporation dedicated to teaching the truth as defined by the Magisterium of the Roman Catholic Church. Listen on your radio at 91.1FM or online at www.SaintPaulRadio.org

Totus Tuus Homeschool Group The Homeschool Group is for all Catholic families in the CSRA who educate their children at home. There are monthly meetings from August through May, held on First Friday starting with Mass/Benediction at 8:30AM followed by a meeting from 9:15-11:30AM. There are also monthly park days, field trips, and other activities. All homeschooling families are welcome.

30 PRAYER FOR GROWING T OGETHER IN FAITH

God, Our Father May our new church, built for Your glory and honor, be a home where all are welcomed, spiritually nourished, and empowered to be more Christ-like. May it reflect who we are called to be: People of compassion, justice, and passionate faith; Stewards with generous hearts and sincere gratitude. Help us to express love in all we do, for as our patroness St. Teresa of Avila has said, “It is love alone that gives worth to all things.” We ask this in Jesus’ name … Amen.

Holy Mary, Mother of God … Pray for us. St. Joseph, the Worker … Pray for us. St. Teresa of Avila … Pray for us.