Mail: Visit: PO Box 510 405-340-0691 900 S. Littler Edmond, OK 73083 stjohn-catholic.org Edmond, OK 73034

OCTOBER 4, 2020 • 27TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

MISSION STATEMENT We are a Catholic Christian Community, called to be faithful, caring, enthusiastic disciples. We build up the Kingdom of God by worshiping and praising Him, proclaim- ing the Good News of Jesus Christ in word and witness, giving loving service to our neighbor and strengthening the parish community.

ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT Monday– Friday 8:00 am—5:00 pm

MASS TIMES Saturday Vigil, 5:30 pm Sunday 7:30 am, 9:00 am 11:30 am, 5:30 pm Daily & Holy Days See “Mass Intentions”

SACRAMENT SCHEDULE Penance Saturday 4:00-5:00 pm Wednesday 5:00-6:00 pm

Anointing of the Sick Please call 405-340-0691 Emergencies call 405-330-7509

Baptism Prep Melissa Tisdell [email protected]

Matrimony Contact priest at least six months in advance

READINGS ~ WEEK OF , 2020 Thurs. Sun., 27th Sunday in Ordinary Time; Respect Life Sunday Gal 3:1-5/Lk 1:69-70, 71-72, 73-75 [68]/Lk 11:5-13 Is 5:1-7/Ps 80:9, 12, 13-14, 15-16, 19-20 [Is 5:7a]/Phil 4:6-9/ Fri., St. Denis, Bishop, and Companions, Martyrs; St. John Leonardi, Priest Mt 21:33-43 Gal 3:7-14/Ps 111:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6 [5]/Lk 11:15-26 Mon., Blessed Seelos, Priest Sat. Gal 1:6-12/Ps 111:1b-2, 7-8, 9 and 10c [5]/Lk 10:25-37 Gal 3:22-29/Ps 105:2-3, 4-5, 6-7 [8a]/Lk 11:27-28 Tues., St. Bruno, Priest; Blessed Marie Rose Durocher, Sun., 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time Gal 1:13-24/Ps 139:1b-3, 13-14ab, 14c-15 [24b]/Lk 10:38-42 Is 25:6-10a/Ps 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6 [6cd]/Phil 4:12-14, 19-20/ Wed., Our Lady of the Rosary Mt 22:1-14 or 22:1-10 Gal 2:1-2, 7-14/Ps 117:1bc, 2/Lk 11:1-4 WORSHIP & EVANGELIZATION

LIVE THE LITURGY nothing in this world or in the one to come belongs to us. All INSPIRATION FOR THE WEEK that we see and know to be true belong to God, and Jesus is October 4, 2020 ~ 27th Sunday Ordinary Time the only one who has any authority. How often do we defer any of our decision making to God? We often conduct our business as if we are the owner, lord and master of it all, but sadly we are not. God gives us the means and the potential to bear good Gospel-centered fruit. This desire and capacity exist within each individual. Unless we really acknowledge and accept who is ultimately in charge, the type of love, justice, peace, and other good fruits God desires for the world will never be realized.

©LPi

WEEKLY GLIMPSE

Sunday 04 10:15 am ...... 1st Communion Class ...... Commons Who has authority over God’s kingdom? While we know that 2:00 pm ...... FF Parent Mtg ...... Great Hall the obvious answer is Jesus, that is not the answer our lives 2:00 pm ...... Pet Blessing ...... Playground always reveal. We struggle with wanting control over God’s 6:30 pm ...... Peru Mission Weekend ...... Great Hall kingdom. We wrestle with ownership, privilege, status, and 7:00 pm ...... HS Youth Group ...... Great Hall the protection of our rights. However, at the end of the day Monday 05 9:15 am ...... Women’s Bible Study ...... Commons Correction: Sunday, Sept 27th, 5:30 pm Mass was for Lorene 1:00 pm ...... Personal Prayer Study ...... Council Rm Buettner’s birthday. Happy birthday Lorene! 7:30 pm ...... Deep Dive ...... Commons Tuesday 06 MASS INTENTIONS 8:00 am ...... SEAS Mom’s Study ...... Commons 7:00 pm ...... RCIA ...... Great Hall Sunday 04 …...... 7:30 am…..….……..…....…….. † John Berry Wednesday 07 9:30 am…...... ….…..People of the Parish 9:30 am ...... Parish Staff Retreat ...... Commons 11:30 am………….……..... † Linda Baustert 10:00 am ...... Hispanic Bible Study ..... Fr. Tharp Mtg 5:30 pm…………....……...... † Cecily Kumor 1:00 pm ...... St. Study ...... Council Rm 6:00 pm ...... 1st Communion Class ...... Commons Monday 05.…..….7:30 am………..…...... † Cleopas Solamillo 6:30 pm ...... Confirmation 1 ...... Great Hall Thursday 08 Tuesday 06…...….7:30 am……….…...... ….... † Sharon Sligar 6:30 pm ...... Men’s Ministry ...... Great Hall 10:00 am ...... Mom’s Bible Study ...... Council Rm Wednesday 07...7:30 am…………...…....….... † Lynne Pierce 6:00 pm ...... Scouts ...... Great Hall 7:00 pm ...... Jesus & Java ...... Playground Thursday 08 .…....7:30 am.………….…...... …....† Hyun Lee Friday 09 8:15 am…....† James McKee III 2:30 pm ...... Wedding ...... Church Saturday 10 Friday 09 .…..…...7:30 am………….....† Brian Reichenberger 12:00 pm ...... Fatima Rosary...... East Parking Lot 5:30 pm………... † Pete & Evelyn Grellner 2:30 pm ...... Wedding ...... Church Sunday 11 Saturday 10 …....7:30 am…………..…...……..... † Julie Stoner 8:00 am ...... Flu Shots ...... Great Hall 5:30 pm…….…………...... † Eugene Horn 10:15 am ...... 1st Communion Class ...... Commons 2:00 pm ...... FF Parent Mtg ...... Great Hall Sunday 11 …...... 7:30 am…..….…...…....…….. † Janie Welch 7:00 pm ...... HS Youth Group ...... Great Hall 9:30 am…...... ….…..People of the Parish 11:30 am………………..... † George Cocoma We are blessed to have a very active parish. Not all activities 5:30 pm…….……....……...... † Joan Gibson will be listed here each week. The complete calendar can be found at stjohn-catholic.org.

2 | St WORSHIP & EVANGELIZATION

PRAYER REQUESTS

Due to space limitations, names are removed from prayer list after three months. Please call 405-340-0691, if you wish to have a name added. An Act of Spiritual Communion Lou Ackerman Gene Tom Moore Nancy Addington Jennifer German Quilly Moreno My Jesus, I believe that you are Josh Ashton Catherine Godwin Angi Murin truly present in the Most Blessed Raymond Atkinson Guinn Family Bear Musea Sacrament. I love You above all things, All Effected by John Hanna Nalagan Family and I desire to possess You within my Covid19 Callen Hans Jim & Nora Nelson Angela Ball George Harward Austin O’Brien soul. Since I am unable now to receive Bill Bennedict * Steven Hayden Old Crow Family You sacramentally, come at least spirit- Liz Bennedict Melvin Hein Rosemarie Pelfrey ually into my heart. I embrace You as Anne Bevers Steven Henderson Cathy Phillips being already there, and unite myself Chloe Biddle Cathy Herrold Gary Phillips wholly to You. Never permit me to be Claudia Bishop * Helen Hignite Joy Phillips Claire Bleau Bill Hinton Denise Rambsh separated from You. Amen Jase Bollenbach Carrol Hochman Teressa Reffner Bertha Bradley Jerry Hoegger Wylene Russell Patriotic Rosary Bob Bratton Stephanie Hung Edith Samaniego Join us Tuesdays, through Benjamin Brister A.J. Hunt Von & Linda Savary November, after daily Mass, to Bill Brown Stephanie Hunt Pat Scott pray the rosary for our country. John Bruning Joseph Hunter & Amy Shaver This will be live streamed on Allison Buechner Family Sharon Sisson * Facebook. Pray from your home Barbara Burdette Brittany Jescavage Skube Family or in the church. Please practice Mike, Sharon & Jody Barbara Smith social distancing and masks are required. Greg Burns Christy Johnson Linda Spreacker Deb Butterfield Katy John Steele Spend Time with Our Lord Nancy Byers Marilyn Kefalas Charmaine Mario Calbone Stan Kelley Surprenant The church will be open during the Conrad Caldwell Stephen Kendall Frank Tassone day for all to adore Monday—Friday Pat Campbell John Ketch Margaret Tharp after daily Mass until 5pm. Brent Caperton Karen Khan Robbie Thompson Karla Del Rosario 405-509-2245 Thurman Caperton Jayne Knol Heather Tisdell or 915-790-8091 Lou Carpenter Patti Hoover Lane Tosha Todd Ron Carte Rick Lawson Kelly Tucker Remember in your prayers, Edgar Chiviliu Fr. Marvin Leven Rosalee Turk those currently serving our Country. Annette Conger Ruby Lhotsky Rose Marie Unrein Kyle Copeland Alice Linnebur Penny Varvel Verna Cotton Zach Lucas Linda Watson Please pray for vocations and support our Dan Culkin Stephanie Luschen Jim & Stacey Webb seminarians. www.OKCVocations.com Patti & Doug Sarah M. and sons Cunningham Maguire Family * Brooklyn Whetson Liam Davey Males John Whorton * Do not forget your purpose and destiny as God’s creature. Gene Hatcher Davis Shawn Malone Don Winett –St. Nancy Dees Roberta Manel Ginny Wolf Leslie Derkach * Mary Ann Markey * John Woodyard Robert “Bob” Diaz Suzanne McGinley Jim Zamboni MAY THEY REST Corrine Dinges Tucker McHugh Grant Zehrung IN GOD’S PEACE Jeanne Edmondson Elizabeth McKinney * New this week Tammy Ellis Walter Merchant Paul Engel Jim Miles All Souls Al Ford Craig Miller Tammy Gaddy Randy & Marcy Gale Garvin Millspaugh Bob Gaston Family Mike Mitchell Ordinary Time| 3 ADMINISTRATION

SACRIFICIAL GIVING REPORT Child Care Opens TODAY Oct 4th Mary Jo and staff have been working on a plan to re-open Parish child care. $42,215.02 Weekly Collection, (9/21 - 9/27) • Toys will be disinfected FY 21 Year to Date Collection 689,250.60 FY 20 Year to Date Collection 740,366.27 • Adults will wear masks & children over 6 years old will 2,860,000.00 FY 21 Collection Budget need to wear a mask

Poor Box/Samaritan House • Temperatures will be checked $4,138.38 Weekly Collection, (9/21 - 9/27) • Everyone will use hand sanitizer as needed FY 21 Year to Date Collection 56,646.54 FY 20 Year to Date Collection 72,456.27 • Doors will close once we meet capacity, so come early FY 21 Poor Box Budget 250,000.00 if you need child care. • Child care will open for the 9:00 am & 11:30 am Special Collection/Disaster Relief $1,233.31 Sunday Masses beginning Sunday, October 4th. • A signed COVID waiver is required once a year. To speed CONTRIBUTION ENVELOPES up check in, please print, sign and bring with you to Weekend of October 4, 2020 Mass, if you plan to check your child(ren) into child care. White Envelope—Weekly Offering Visit our website for the waiver. We will have Disaster Relief: Prompted by Hurricane Laura and the Cali- copies on hand, if you aren’t able to print in advance. fornia wildfires, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is Due to capacity restrictions, we have space for 11 children. urging all dioceses to consider taking up a special collection Children 1st grade and up must attend Mass with their fami- to support the humanitarian and Church needs arising from lies. Once we have reached 11, the door will be closed and these and future disasters. Thank you for your generous we will not be able to accommodate additional children. If contributions last week. you need child care for Mass, we recommend coming early. Peter’s Pence: Today is the Peter’s Pence Collection, a We also have a plan for staggering start dates for child care worldwide collection that supports the activities of the Holy during studies/events at St. John’s. Those dates will be See through which Francis governs the Church and shared with the leaders and anyone registered for those exercises his charitable works. When used for charitable outreach, funds from this collection help those most in need. Take this opportunity to join with Pope Francis and be a sign of mercy. Please be generous today. For more infor- mation, visit http://www.peterspence.va/en.html.

TABERNACLE FLOWERS

In Memory of Simon Greiner By The Greiner Family

If interested in a flower memorial or celebration, please call or email the Parish Office at [email protected] or 405-340-0691 and they can assist you with available dates. Dates are on a first come first serve basis.

Bulletin and Newsletter Content Submissions should be directed to [email protected] by noon on Friday. (10 days before Sunday) Submissions are accepted as space permits and are subject to editing. Graphics are appreciated and used if space permits.

4 | St John the Baptist OUTREACH

SAMARITAN HOUSE 42 E. 9th Edmond, OK Open Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9:00 am—12:00 pm 405-216-7554 Do you or someone you know need assistance with food or utilities? St. John's Samaritan House is here to help. Call or come by! Needs: Canned Green Beans & Jelly Please drop off donations in the bin marked Samaritan House in the closet in the Commons. Do not leave items on the porch as animals get them and we aren’t able to use your donation. Mask requirement remains in place Until further notice, Archbishop Coakley has issued a man- datory requirement for masks to be worn for all public Mass- Anniversary Mass es in the archdiocese. For more information or to read the Archbishop Coakley invites married couples who are “Letter to the Faithful,” go online to archokc.org/mass. celebrating milestone anniversaries (25, 40, 50+) in the calendar year 2020 to participate in the annual Anniversary Mass that will be live-streamed at 3 p.m. Oct.18 in the St. Chapel at the Catholic Pastoral Center. Register with the Office of Marriage and Family Life at (405) 709-2709 or [email protected]. Couples are asked to send in a picture of themselves to be shown on the live- SUNDAY , O C T O B E R 1 1 TH stream. 8 : 0 0 - 1 1 : 0 0 TUESDAY , O C T O B E R 1 3 TH Day of Reflection 2 : 0 0 - 4 : 0 0 P M A Day of Reflection: “A Day of Silence at the Abbey” with Br. FREE WITH YOUR INSUR ANCE/ Damian Whalen, O.S.B., will be 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Oct. 24, MEDICARE CARD at St. Gregory’s Abbey in Shawnee. Early bird discount $30; $35 at the door, includes lunch. Contact (405) 878-5656, In the Great Hall [email protected]. Questions: 340-0691, x 115 or email: [email protected] Tours resume at St. Ann Retirement Community St John’s will offer flu shots from 8:00 am – 11:00 am on Sunday, October 11th and Tuesday October 13th from 2:00 Ann staff is beginning the process of allowing safe pm - 4:00 pm. Regular flu vaccine and high dose vaccine for tours to take place in the community. There are openings in +65 years of age is free with your Medicare/Insurance Card. independent living and assisted living with choice locations Contact Amy Dennis 405-340-0691, x 115 if you have any available. Schedule tours by calling Bridget or Richard at questions. (405) 721-0747. Ask about the “End of Summer” Special at St. Ann Retirement Community, 7501 W. Britton Rd. in We have put all the necessary precautions in place to Oklahoma City. protect you when you stop in to get your shot.

Ordinary Time| 5 FAITH FORMATION

Kasey Ross Erin Snow Coordinator of Youth & Young Adults Director of Evangelization 6th—12th & Confirmation & Faith Formation [email protected] 405-340-0691 x136 PreK-5th & First Communion [email protected] 405-340-0691 x135

Boredom Prayers Faith Formation Calendar by DYLLAN MAMASIG Looking ahead, please mark your calendars for the following … I remember how effortless it was to clasp my October meetings (2:00 pm in the Great Hall). One parent hands together, lower my head, and lay down my from each family is asked to attend: everything in prayer. October 4: last name beginning with A- G Prayer becomes so much easier when we’re October 11: last name beginning with H- P surrounded by examples of our faith, either at the October 25: last name beginning Q- Z Mass, youth night, a parish event, or even at a retreat. The atmosphere sets the tone and the words just tend to naturally flow better. But eventu- ally, we need to leave the four walls of the church, return home, and go back into the world. Our faith is not confined to one space and that applies to our prayer life, too. However, being in the world, it might not always be easy to sit down and pray. Some days our words will fail us, our prayer time will fall short, and we become unable to hear God’s voice. But when that happens, God will al- ways be there to remind us “Fear not, I am with you” ( 41:10). The thing about our faith is that it is ever-changing and always evolving — that includes our prayer life, too. Sometimes it is in these prayer ruts that we are able to discover new ways to pray and deepen our relationship with God. And sometimes where we find Him is in the most boring, mundane moments in our lives… Waiting in Line Folding the Laundry Taking a Shower Making Your Bed On the Road In building a relationship with God, there is a great need to spend time in prayer. Whether it’s dedicat- ed time in the Mass or during youth night, or just finding time to pray in our daily lives, we need pray- er in order to keep our faith growing ever stronger. Remember that God is always present, but some- times we may need to discover new ways and meth- ods to pray in order to clearly hear His words… Read the rest of this blog on https://lifeteen.com/ blog/boredom-prayers

6 | St John the Baptist FAITH FORMATION

An Invitation to Personal Prayer: Womens Monday Morning Conversation for the Spiritual Life Bible Study For those interested in learning more Journey through Scripture is the about individual private prayer. St. Paul Center's dynamic Bible Topics include Contemplation, study program designed to help Meditation and Journaling, as well as Praying with Scripture, ordinary Catholics grow in their Praying for Grace, Prayer of Repetition and more. knowledge of the Scriptures while deepening their under- St. John the Baptist , Council Room standing of the riches of our faith. September 14 - November 9, 2020 Distinctively Catholic, Journey through Scripture reads the Bible from the heart of the Church, engaging both the Old 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm and New Testaments and how they work together. It's Cost $25 grounded in history, yet actively engages topics faced by Register Online at Stjohn-Catholic.org/Event-Registration today's Catholic. More than just an ordinary Bible study, it's For more information please contact Ceci Taylor biblical catechesis. 405-650-7691 or [email protected] Mondays, beginning Oct. 5. 9am & 10:30 am in-person and on Zoom at 10am. Register online at stjohn-catholic.org/ event-registration. For more information contact Wendy Deatsch at [email protected].

To set up your free account visit FORMED.ORG/ SIGNUP and select our parish. ST ELIZABETH ANN SETON SCHOOL

MISSION STATEMENT 925 S. Boulevard • Principal Guided by our Catholic faith, St. Elizabeth Edmond, OK 73034 Laura Cain, x137 Ann Seton Catholic School serves God and Ph: 405-348-5364 Assistant Principal Fx: 405-340-9627 Karen Corrigan, x129 families by spiritually and academically Stelizabethedmond.org preparing students for lives of holiness and service.

Thurs. Oct. 8 School Mass, on YouTube StJohn Edmond Thurs. Oct. 8 Picture Retakes, School Mass Oct. 12– 15 Parent Teacher Conferences Tues. Oct. 13 School Advisory Council

Parent Teacher Conferences We will hold virtual parent teacher conferences during the month of October at all grade levels. Please watch for a sign up sheet and instructions to join the virtual conferences coming from your child's teacher. All parents are encouraged to schedule a conference.

Ordinary Time| 7 STEWARDSHIP & COMMUNITY LIFE

Gifts Given to Share Please join us for the 2020 My oldest two children Public Square -- Rosary took piano lessons when Crusade at 12:00 Noon, Satur- then were younger. In fact, day, October 10th. This year it was because my oldest more than ever we are need- wanted to learn to play so ing prayer as Our Lady re- badly that we purchased a quested at Fatima. piano. He would use it for We will gather outside at the practice during his few years of lessons, and then my daugh- Ten Commandment's Monu- ter took up the instrument. After a few years of lessons for ment in the south-east parking each, restlessness set in and a type of indifference took lot of St. John the Baptist over. The lessons and the practicing came to an end. Catholic Church, off Boulevard. My youngest had not expressed much interest in piano In case of rain we will stand when he was younger. Then when he was a teenager, he under the awning, just north of the school and of course asked for lessons. He began to play and now he plays even practice social distancing. for fun and to relax. When his siblings try to play, they are This year is the 103rd Anniversary of the miracle of the sun stuck with the truth that those days are gone and since they predicted by Our Blessed Mother when she visited the three gave it up years ago, they can no longer really play. In many children in Fatima, Portugal, each 13th day from May ways, they were given a gift, but since they did not use and through October 1917, and requested them to pray, pray, cultivate it, they lost it. pray. 70,000 people witnessed the sun dance and some of God gives us gifts every day and we too often act like those them converted. gifts will simply always be there. The truth is, unlike God Be a Fatima apostle: Continue to pray through the most Holy Himself, many of those gifts are not eternal. If we fail to Rosary to ask Our Lord and Our Lady for the conversion and acknowledge them and put them to use, we risk losing them protection of America, to stop the waves of sacrilege, in the end. What a shame. What gifts might be slowly slip- blasphemy and anti-religious hatred in our society, and pray ping away from each of us due to our lack of interest and for our public officials. We will be joining our prayers with an indifference? They might not be there if and when we estimated 20,000 rallies across America. Public prayer is change our minds. powerful. — Tracy Earl Welliver, MTS Any questions, please call Ceci Chapman-Taylor at 405-650-7691.

K of C RibsTailgate at home for your Sooner/ Cowboy or NFL games. If you love BBQ ribs but don’t have time for all the preparation and cooking, let Knights of Columbus Council 6477 led by Pitmasters Jim Cox and Dale Sligar fix them for you. Our council will pre- pare for you full slabs of St. Louis cut spareribs. Ribs will be available by advance order only and will cost $30 per slab. We will accept orders for curbside pickup at the West church parking lot on November 15th, St. John Catholic Church, 900 S. Littler Ave., Edmond, OK between the hours of 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm. Ribs will be frozen but ready to heat and serve at half time or at your choice date & time. No need to thaw, just follow warm- ing instructions provided. Ordering cutoff date is November 4, 2020. Ordering and Payment methods available: Personal check made payable to K of C Council 6477 Orders and payment may also be placed by contacting: Jim Cox 405-417-7767, or For questions contact [email protected] Dale Sligar 405-850-0180 Register online at stjohn-catholic.org/Event-Registration

8 | St John the Baptist CATHOLIC COMMUNITY

THE CATHOLIC NEWMAN CODA: CENTER @ UCO CO-DEPENDENTS ANONYMOUS 321 E Clegern Ave, Edmond, OK Co-Dependents Anonymous in Edmond is Rachel Smith—Campus Minister continuing meetings on Zoom. Thurs. 6:30pm and Sat. 11:00am. For information and to stjohn-catholic.org/formation/uco-catholic-newman-center receive the meeting link call/text Sherry 405-315-7559 or email Youth, young adult events [email protected]. The Youth, Young Adult and Campus Evangelization and Dis- Additional online and phone meetings listed cipleship Office has many upcoming events such as a volley- at www.coda.org. Co-Dependents Anonymous is a fellowship ball tournament, Halloween block party, family camp and of women and men learning to develop healthy relationships more. Visit archokc.org/youth-young-adult or the Facebook with family, ourselves and God. page @archokcyouth. Become a seminarian pen pal! Luncheon 4 Life Our seminarians are away from home for months at a time during their formation. While at seminary, they would like to The next Luncheon 4 Life is 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Oct. 8 at hear from people back home in Oklahoma! To become a the Catholic Pastoral Center. The speaker is Bill Shapard of Seminarian Pen Pal, go online to archokc.org/penpal, find Shapard Research who pioneered ground-breaking research their addresses and write a note. for "Support After Abortion." Contact [email protected]. Blue Mass A Blue Mass for First Responders will be at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at St. John Nepomuk Catholic Church in Yukon. Reception to follow. COVID precautions followed.

Prayer to St Michael the

St Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen

CONTACTS Parish Staff Ph 405-340-0691 • Fax 405-340-5715 Accounting...... Lynda Hearn, x113 St Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School Mail PO Box 510, Edmond, OK 73083 Accounting/S&S ...... Angela Holt, x145 Ph 405-348-5364 • Fax 405-340-9627 Principal ...... Laura Cain, x137 Emergency Calls Only ...... 405-330-7509 Outreach/HR…………….Amy Dennis, x115 Comm/S&CL ... Stephanie Graham, x112 Pastor ...... Rev. Ray Ackerman Children’s Day Out Assoc. Pastor ...... Rev. Anthony Ram Evang & Faith FormationErin Snow, x135 Ph 405-340-1789 Assoc. Pastor ...... Rev. Alexander Kroll Youth & Young Adults . Kasey Ross, x136 Office Manager ...... Melissa Tisdell x107 Director ...... Eva Nagykaldi Deacon ...... George Butterfield Deacon ...... Randy Hearn Child Care ...... Mary Jo Fischer, x125 Deacon ...... Roy Forsythe Maintenance ...... Nathan Howard, x350 Outreach—Samaritan House Deacon ...... Bill Bawden Counselor Mary Brenner, 405-359-8539 Ph 405-216-7554 Administration ...... Jennifer Dolf, x114 UCO ...... Rachel Smith, 405-341-6300 Coordinator ...... Jesus Medina

Pastoral Associate ...... Anne Keef, x108

Music ...... Barbara Meiser, x117 Ordinary Time| 9 MESSENGER

INTRODUCING OUR PARISH LEADERSHIP TEAM Members of the PLT include: (FORMERLY PARISH COUNCIL) Fr. Ray Ackerman, Pastor

Fr. Alex Kroll, Associate Pastor In May of 2019, the Staff Resource Fr. Anthony Ram, Associate Pastor Leaders and Fr. Ray attended the Amazing Parish Conference in Cincinnati. Ray Haefele From this conference, a Parish Leadership Team (the PLT) Docie Jason was created, which included the Staff Resource Leaders, Jesus Medina various parishioners engaged in the Parish, and Clergy. The Mike Metzger PLT represents the Parish and School and is a consultative group to the Pastor. They assist the Pastor with ministry/ Stephanie Stovall parish related decisions, setting the vision for St. John’s, han- Laura Cain, Staff Resource Leader St. Elizabeth Ann Seton dling concerns that affect the entire congregation and help- Catholic School ing spread the Culture of Prayer, Healthy Teamwork and Ac- Amy Dennis, Staff Resource Leader Outreach tive Discipleship. Jennifer Dolf, Staff Resource Leader Administration The PLT has taken on many of the responsibilities that Parish Stephanie Graham, Staff Resource Leader Stewardship & Council once had, therefore we have disbanded Parish Community Life, Communications Council and restructured it as the PLT. Erin Snow, Staff Resource Leader Evangelization & Formation Learn more at stjohn-catholic.org

PERU MISSION WEEKEND Father Joe sent us a beautiful YouTube video that has been OCTOBER 3/4 added to St. John’s Peru Ministry webpage; be sure to check it out at stjohn-catholic.org/outreach/peru-partnership The Peru Board is excited to bring you up- to-date on the happenings at our sister parish, Santisimo Sacramento. We will be at each Mass to ask for your generous support, help answer your questions and to bring you a message of hope from Father Joe and his staff.

10 | St John the Baptist MESSENGER

Spirituality: The Prophet “priest, prophet, and king”; the role of prophet can be very By Nancy Vargas lonely and uncomfortable; think of , , John the Baptist, not one of them would have won a popularity Over the years I have composed my own contest. Speaking truth to power, speaking out against all Litany of names and titles for Jesus, forms of injustice and oppression, speaking out for the sanc- names for him that have been given to tity of life from our conception to our natural death; taking a me in our prayer time together; endear- stand means taking a risk. Those times that I have found ments that are a reflection of the growth myself standing alone and speaking up, I pray to Jesus, the and communion of our relationship over prophet. I pray for the grace to be steadfast and faithful to my lifetime. Recently I have added another title for Jesus, his Truth. The Beatitudes offer us a way of being prophets in Prophet. Jesus was a prophet, one who spoke truth to the this world, giving us guidance in how to live our lives as well “powers that be” and often times the power that Jesus as comfort in those times when we are cast aside and ridi- challenged were the authorities of his own religion, the culed for speaking truth to power. “Rejoice and leap for joy Pharisees, scribes, and Sadducees. Jesus was a prophet who on that day! Behold, your reward will be great in heaven. For proclaimed the Reign of God, a way of being in relationship their ancestors treated the prophets in the same way” (Luke with God and with all God’s children; the world as God in- 6: 20-26). The Message gives a very blunt take on the role of tended it to be from the very beginning. Speaking truth to the prophet: “Your task is to be true, not popular” (Luke 6: power and proclaiming the injustice of the world’s status quo 26). is not a very comfortable role to play. Jesus proclaims his How are you being called to be a prophet in your family, in earthly mission in Luke in his own hometown of Nazareth: your work place, in your parish, in your community, and in “He unrolled the scroll and found the passage where it was your country? Speaking truth to power is a prophet’s mission written: ‘The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has and the strength and grace needed for that mission can only anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor. He has sent me be found in Jesus, the Prophet. For more information on to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the being a prophet, I highly recommend the book: The Time is blind, and to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim a Now, A Call to Uncommon Courage by Joan Chittister. year acceptable to the Lord.’ Today this scripture passage is fulfilled in your hearing” (Luke 4: 17-30). Jesus was not recognized or welcomed as a prophet in his own hometown, Nancy is a long time parishioner of St. John’s and has ten the people that he grew up with were unable to see him in years experience in spiritual direction. She facilitates a new way, their minds and hearts were hardened to the Re-treat in Daily Life groups for the Archdiocese. She may message that he proclaimed. be contacted at 405-760-4640 or [email protected]. All of us that have been Baptized have been anointed as

Reflect First Reading: The prophets of ancient Israel often used the term “vineyard” as a metaphor for God’s chosen people. Why do you think Isaiah and the other prophets saw this as an effective teaching tool? Second Reading: Paul teaches the Philippians that prayer and a posi- tive attitude is key to settling our anxious hearts and minds. When have you put this advice into practice? Gospel: Jesus directs this harsh parable of the tenants to the religious leaders of Jerusalem. Do you think Jesus’ words led any of them to repentance?

Ordinary Time| 11 DEVOTIONAL

Our Link to Heaven has grown unabated. Families have been severely assaulted. By Karen Pourbabaee Corruption of all sorts has exploded. Never before has it been more urgent to take up our rosary beads. There are numer-

ous Catholic organizations currently leading 54 day novenas “The rosary is a long chain that links heaven for our nation, i.e. US Grace Force, Queen of Peace Media, to and earth.” St. Therese of Liseaux name a few. Join fellow Catholics around our nation who be- Hopefully, we all have a rosary story or two. lieve in the words of St. Padre Pio: “The Rosary is the weapon You know, one that confirms the scripture, for our times.” Pick up the long chain that links heaven and “The fervent prayer of a righteous person is very power- earth and pray! Your fervent ful.” (James 5:16 NAB) I have at least two dramatic ones in prayer has great power! Amen. recent years. One night about midnight, I couldn’t fall asleep and grabbed my rosary to pray for a little loved one; I learned the next day that it was just at the time an acute illness be- came very frightening, but over the course of a half hour the As a Christian freelance writer, Karen is the author of a symptoms abated into peaceful sleep. Pause and remember SACRED JOURNEY THROUGH ADVENT TO EPIPHANY, as well one of your rosary stories. as her 2016 book ACADIAN MELODY and part of a multi- What St. Therese said is true: the rosary links heaven and author series of books, MIXED BLESSINGS. She is a regular earth. While aiding in urgent issues, sometimes the answers devotional contributor for Faithwriters.com come after thousands of beaded prayers have been prayed. Sr. Lucia of Fatima relates: “There is no prob- lem. I tell you, no matter how difficult that we cannot solve by the prayer of the Holy Rosary.” Did you know the Rosary will help you on your daily Christian walk? Even while you pray for others’ intentions, you are receiving divine help for yourself. “Never will anyone who says the Rosary every day be led astray.” (St. Louis de Montfort) Prayer helps us stay on the right path spoken of in Mathew 7:14: “For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and few are those who find it.” St. Josemaria Escriva adds to this truth for our lives: “If you say the Holy Rosary every day with a spirit of faith and love, our Lady will make sure she leads you far along her Son’s path.” Do you really need any more reasons to pray the Rosary? What blessings do you need in your life? “The Holy Rosary is the store- house of countless bless- ings.” (Blessed Alan de la Roche) Get your beads out and pray. “We put great confidence in the Holy Rosary for the healing of evils which afflict our times.”(Pope Pius XII) His papacy ended in 1958. The societal evils and unrest have multiplied since his reign. Immorality

12 | St John the Baptist MESSENGER

In September we welcomed these children into our Faith

Community through the Sacrament of Baptism:

Olivia Anne Oare, daughter of Mark & Sarah Oare Kooper Tackett, son of Karris & Riley Tackett James Michael Ferguson, son of Ryan & Stefanie Ferguson We would like to welcome all newcomers to St John’s Church. Day of Reflection A Day of Reflection: “A Day of Silence at the Abbey” with Br. Registration forms can be found at all hospitality desks Damian Whalen, O.S.B., will be 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Oct. 24, in the church or register online at www.stjohn-catholic.org at St. Gregory’s Abbey in Shawnee. Early bird discount $30; in the Welcome tab. $35 at the door, includes lunch. Contact (405) 878-5656, [email protected]. Fortune Azilagbetor Marisa Donaldson Mandi Ezu Martin & Debora Fox The 40 Days for Life campaign of prayer and fasting, peace- Christopher & Mary Geiger ful vigils and community outreach starts September 23rd Diane Giovanni and ends November 1st. Duane Hatt Location of peaceful prayer vigil in Edmond: Duane & Kittrina Hattrup Planned Parenthood Facility Joshua & Angela Magrath 3431 S Boulevard, Edmond, Ok Mike & Beth Mayer Hours: 7:00 am - 7:00 pm Ryan & Teresa McBride Rain or shine for 40 straight days. Franck & Caryn Moore You can sign up to volunteer at the following website Ron & Lisa Olenski Roger Perez & Jackie Garcia https://www.40daysforlife.com/edmond Kathie Price For more info, contact Mike Hurney , 918.625.7619, or Bill & Viviana Robertson [email protected] & Erin Shemon Location of peaceful prayer vigil in Norman: Anthony & Karen Toffoli Dr. Burns Abortion Surgery Center Bryan & Melissa Wells 2453 Wilcox Drive, Norman Thursdays, Sept. 24, Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. Saturday, Oct. 10 There will be no public sign-ups, so the babies are depend- ing on you to sign up with BING MARTIN 405-924-9812, Project at St. John the Baptist email: [email protected] Catholic Church in Edmond is a pro-life (Use "40 Days for Life" in the subject line) outreach ministry providing spiritual, Or personal, and material support, and mentoring women experiencing a crisis Connie Lang, email: [email protected]. pregnancy. Trained volunteers provide Also, more information may be obtained at 40 Days for a close, supportive relationship with any Life.com/Norman woman needing help through her preg- If you cannot participate, please pray for the campaign. nancy and after delivery. Call Project Gabriel for confidential These babies need our help. support if you or a friend are pregnant! 405-888-2372.

Ordinary Time| 13 COUNSELING CORNER

Geriatric Depression 5. On that same note, do not procrastinate. There is never a By Mary Brenner, LPC, NCC better time than now. 6. Avoid Negative thinking. To see the positive in any situa- tion is a gift, but it can also be a learned activity. Challenge One of the saddest trickle down effects from yourself daily to see the good in your life. Take pleasure in COVID-19 is the huge increase in Geriatric the small things we take for granted; food, shelter, clothing Depression. Our elderly population have often and our safety. been marginalized by our society, but in particular with the same safety precautions in place to keep them safe, our 7. Reduce your stress level. One of the biggest ways is to elderly have been isolated. Their daily interactions have been turn off the television. Our news is now designed to provoke emotion and reactions and these are not peaceful. Try in- grounded to a halt. stead to spend more time in prayer and adoration, attend One of the basic human needs is to interact with others. The daily mass, spend time outside, even if it’s just on your porch more stressful the situation is, the more interaction and sup- or a shared patio. port is needed. Never in our history have we had more stress 8. Happy List. Create a list of things you do that you gain joy than what we are dealing with as we navigate this epidemic. So it is natural to understand that Geriatric Depression is from. Knitting a blanket, walking in the neighborhood, bak- ing. Whatever works for you, it might be different for some- increasing,, but the effects are far more damaging to them because they have complicated heath issues and are more one else. When you feel down, look at that list and try to do fragile. something on that list. What can be done? If you feel you have a family member who As we age we can lose our support group, our spouse, is suffering from Geriatric Depression take children move and we them to a professional for an evaluation. The find ourselves alone. This can create a sense of Geriatric Depression Scale is a widely used scale that indicates depression. Rule out suffering. It is inevitable other health issues such as opioid over use that we will suffer in this and addiction or early onset of Alzheimer’s life. Acknowledge the and dementia. Implement a plan of improve- suffering and let it go. Our faith tells us our trials ment. and suffering are part of These eight strategies will help you live with life. There is a difference depression: between suffering and 1. Improve your sleep. Sleep is extremely being a victim. As long as important to brain health and well being. you can think and pray, 2. Develop healthy eating habits making sure you eat plenty you can take control of life, even if it’s not what you would of protein rich in omega 3. have preferred. Reach out to people and recreate your com- 3. Develop a strong network. This may include reaching out munity. to people in the church, community and old classmates and former work colleagues. Sometimes this is the most challeng- ing because we have been taught to suffer quietly. When you Mary Brenner, LPC, NCC, is on staff at St. John’s. She has a reach out you may find that those people you lost contact are broad source of experience with young people, families, having the same issues. couples, and mature adults. She has also worked with school 4. Keep up with your daily household chores. When you let children. If you or your family are in need of a counselor, things slide they pile up, often seeming overwhelming. Mary may be contacted at 405-359-8539. Breaking them down and doing a few chores each day gives you a feeling of accomplishment and daily movement. Anniversary Mass Archbishop Coakley invites married St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School couples who are celebrating milestone anniversaries (25, in Edmond is looking for a full-time 40, 50+) in the calendar year 2020 to participate in the an- early childhood teacher for a three-year nual Anniversary Mass that will be live-streamed at 3 p.m. -old classroom. Those interested Oct.18 in the St. Francis de Sales Chapel at the Catholic should send a resume and cover letter to Laura Cain, Pastoral Center. Register with the Office of Marriage and Principal, [email protected]. A teacher application Family Life at (405) 709-2709 or [email protected]. packet can be found at bit.ly/AOKCTeacherApplication. Couples are asked to send in a picture of themselves to be shown on the live-stream. 14 | St John the Baptist COMMUNITY

More info & Register/pay Online stjohn-catholic.org/Event-Registration

Pet Blessing For the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, St. John’s will host a pet blessing on the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School playground at 925 S. Boulevard. TODAY, Oct, 4 at 2:00 pm. ALL are invited! Please make sure your pets are leashed or contained and clean up after them. Please practice social distancing. Thank you!

Please wish Fr. Ray a Oklahoma Catholic Women’s Conference happy birthday! The 2021 Oklahoma Catholic Women’s Conference is Feb. 27 at Embassy Suites, 2501 Conference Dr. in Norman. (Oct 5) Tickets $55 before Dec. 1; $65 after Dec. 1. Visit okcatholicwomen.com.

Ordinary Time| 15 SUPPORT

COUNSELING: individual, child/ 3401 NW 63rd, #200, OKC, OK 73116 NAMI SUPPORT GROUP adolescence, group, marital and family Contact Janet Spradlin, Ph.D., 405-272- NAMI hosts support groups for families counseling to help you cope with stress, 6554 to join from home anywhere in and caregivers of people with mental grief, depression, anxiety, addictions, Oklahoma. Meets 4th Monday of month, illness and has a support group for relationships and adult children issues. 6:30-8:00 pm. people with mental illness. For more Sessions at House. Call Mary Jim Thorpe information on mental illness support Brenner, LPC, 405-359-8539. INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehab Hospital and events visit NAMIedmond.org or GRIEF SUPPORT. St. John’s offers individual 4219 S. Western Ave., OKC, OK 73109. call 405-408-0886 sessions for discussing the death, your For Rehab Caregiver Support Group Al-Anon Groups loss and the corresponding feelings. Call Contact: Allie Weaver, CRC 405-636- Edmond Clubhouse, behind Reid Printing Mary Brenner, LPC at 405-359-8539. 7883. Meets 3rd Thursday of the month, 3130 B South Boulevard 405- 330-1160 St. Ann’s Pregnancy & Early Infant Loss Support 6:00 pm. For Brain Injury Support Group Monday 12:00 noon Group held each second Thursday of the Contact Karen Bryan, OTR/L 405-644- Monday 6:30 pm Preteen - Alateen month from 6:30-8:00. Share stories and 5381. Meets 4th Thursday of month, 6:00 Monday 7:40 pm resources. Natalie Clevenger at -7:30 pm. Wednesday 6:45 pm [email protected] or 405-315- MERCY HOSPITAL STROKE SUPPORT GROUP Saturday 9:30 am and 11:00 am 1425. Child care available upon request. 4120 W. Memorial Rd. (Glass Pyramid), Sunday 5:30 pm Al-Anon Adult Children CANCER SUPPORT GROUP. meets on the third #102 OKC, OK 73120. Contact: Gary Alcoholics Anonymous Groups Sunday of the month from 10:15 - 11:30 Bulmer 405-721-8453. Meets 2nd Peace Lutheran, 2600 E Danforth, at St. Andrew's Catholic Church, 800 NW Tuesday, 6:00-7:30 pm. Mon, Wed, 8:00 pm, OKC BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP Wesley Foundation Student Center, 310 E 5th St, OKC, OK 73160. Call Caryl Prati, Hurd St., M, W, F, Sat, 12:10 pm Valir Rehab Hospital – 700 NW 7th St., RN FCN for information at 405-799-3334. Edmond Group, 3130 S Boulevard, Every OKC, OK Meets 1st and 3rd Tuesday of St. Phillip Neri, 1107 Felix Pl, Midwest day, 8:00 PM; Tues, Thurs, 12:10 month, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Contact: Gary City, OK 73110. Every Other Tuesday 7:00 pm; Sat, 11:00 am, Sun, 9:30 am Bulmer 405-721-8453 or Rod Davidson -8:30. Contact Sharon Hebert, 405-455- Edmond Hispanic Group, 3130 S 405-517-1608 3608, [email protected]. Boulevard, Mon, Wed, Fri, 6:30 pm CODEPENDENTS ANNONYMOUS is a CHEMICAL DEPENDENCY & GAMBLING. American Legion Hall, 101 E. 5th Street, fellowship of men and women who want A CHANCE TO CHANGE, meets on Tues, Sun, 7:30 pm to develop healthy relationships to Mondays, from 6:30-8:00 pm, at 3031 Simply AA, 19 1/2 West 1st St, Tues, support and share with each other in a NW 64th, off May Avenue, OKC. New Thurs, Sun, 8:00 pm journey of self-discovery. CODA meets at programs for individuals with gambling Presbyterian Church, 10th and Rankin, 6:30 pm every Thursday. Call Sherry at problems and employee assistance Sat, 8:00 am 405-844-1474. programs are now available. Call 405-840 SURVIVIORS OF SUICIDE WIDOWED OR DIVORCED The opportunity to -9000. Contact: Cindy Rose, 405-919-9195, find help dealing with the natural grief MENTAL HEALTH. Edmond Support Group for [email protected], Crossings Community process is available through the Beginning depression, bipolar and related conditions Church, 14600 North Portland Ave, OKC, Experience weekend. With the help of meets every Saturday, 3:00-4:00 pm, in OK 73134, every Mon, 6:30 pm - 7:45 pm God, the pain of loss can turn into an the Edmond Public Library, at 10 S. Contact: Randy Miller , 405-751-1859, experience of positive growth. For info or Boulevard. [email protected] or Cindy Siegrist, upcoming dates, Contact the Office of LOCAL MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION CLASS 405-317-1387, All Souls' Episcopal Church, 6400 North Ave, Family Life at 721-5651 x108. 4 area support groups are available for OKC, OK 73116, 4th Tues of every month CAREGIVER SUPPORT for caregivers of those family members or caregivers of someone from 7:00 - 9:00 pm. Contact: Phyllis with some type of dementia meets on the with a severe mental illness. 2nd Monday of each month from 7:00 – Haley, 405-330-8155, 2109 Silvertree 1 area support group is available for those Lane, Edmond, OK 73013, Meet Monthly. 8:30 pm at Santa Fe Presbyterian Church, suffering with a severe mental illness. 1603 N Santa Fe. For information call the Survivors Support Group More details to be found at church at 405-341-3300 or Cindy Meerschaert House 2nd Floor - 1901 NW www.NAMIedmond.org Thomas at 405-715-9954. 18th St., OKC, OK. (St. Francis of Assisi Family to Family classes Go to Autumn Leaves Memory Care, 1001 S. Parish). Third Monday of the Month www.namigreaterokc.com for information Bryant, 405-406-3858. 3rd Tuesday of 7:00 -8:30. A support group for those who about support groups and classes and the month at 6:00 pm. have lost someone to suicide. A simple continuing education series regarding gathering in a caring atmosphere, offering STROKE AND BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT serious mental illness. You may also call ways to cope and remember loved ones. GROUPS. 405-408-8806 for information. Denise Short 405-620-7991. Youth Room American Heart Association

16 | St John the Baptist October 2020

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 Men’s Ministry 2 3 SEAS Mass Peru Mission Weekend Mom’s Bible Study Tai Ji Quan Scouts Jesus & Java

4 5 6 7 St Joseph Study 8 Men’s Ministry 9 10 Peru Mission Weekend Women’s Bible Study SEAS Mom’s Group Hispanic Bible Study SEAS Mass Wedding Fatima Rosary 1st Communion class Personal Prayer Study RCIA 1st Communion Class Mom’s Bible Study Wedding Rehearsal Wedding FF Parent Mtg Tai Ji Quan Choir (Men) Confirmation 1 Tai Ji Quan HSYG Choir (Women) Scouts UCO Confession/Mass Jesus & Java

11 12 13 14 15 Men’s Ministry 16 17 Flu Shots Women’s Bible Study Flu Shots St Joseph Study SEAS Mass SEAS/CDO Fall Break Funeral 1st Communion Class Personal Prayer Study St Theresa’s Guild UCO Confession/Mass Mom’s Bible Study Jean John Memorial Funeral FF Parent Mtg Tai Ji Quan Safety & Security Mtg Choir (Women) Tai Ji Quan HSYG HS Core Team SAC Mtg / RCIA Mom’s Craft Night Scouts Choir (Men) Jesus & Java

18 19 20 21 22 Men’s Ministry 23 24 SEAS Professional Day RCIA St Joseph Study SEAS Mass Confirmation 2 Retreat Women’s Bible Study Choir (Men) Hispanic Bible Study Mom’s Bible Study Fall Festival @Beacon Personal Prayer Study Confirmation 2 Tai Ji Quan Drive-in Tai Ji Quan Choir (Women) Scouts UCO Confession/Mass Jesus & Java

25 26 27 28 29 Men’s Ministry 30 31 1st Communion Class Women’s Bible Study Finance Board St Joseph Study SEAS Mass McGivney FF Parent Mtg Personal Prayer Study Property Board Hispanic Bible Study Mom’s Bible Study Stream (Knights) HSYG Tai Ji Quan RCIA Confirmation 1 Tai Ji Quan RCIA Church Tour Choir (Women) Scouts UCO Confession/Mass Jesus & Java