MARCH 22, 2020 — FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563 | 630.355.8980 (Main Office) | 630.305.6318 (Religious Education) | 630.355.0521 (Fax) Office Hours: 8:30 am to 8:30 pm, Monday–Thursday; 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Friday email to [email protected] or visit us at www.stapostle.org Roman Catholic Diocese of Joliet-in-Illinois • Most Rev. R. Daniel Conlon, Bishop • Most. Rev. Richard E. Pates, Apostolic Administrator Parish Staff Priests in Residence Sacrament of Reconciliation: Reconciliation is Rev. Philip Danaher, Pastor, x102, [email protected] available Saturday, 3:30 to 4:15 pm, in the Reconciliation Rev. Joseph Kappilumakkal, CMI, Parochial Vicar, x103, [email protected] Room of the Chapel. Our priests are available during the Priests Assisting on Weekends week by appointment. Communal Penance services are Rev. Bob Colaresi, O. Carm., Weekend Associate, [email protected] held occasionally during the year. Rev. Matt Lorenz, Senior Vicar, Archdiocese of Chicago In the Hospital or Home Bound: Call the Church Office Permanent Deacons to receive prayer/Eucharist from a priest, deacon or Michael (Kathryn) Barrett — 630.355.8980, x145, [email protected] Minister of Care. Jim (Mary Jo) Breen — 630.486.3133, [email protected] Joe (Carolyn) Cuzzone — 630.355.8980, x224, [email protected] Baptism: Baptisms are usually celebrated two to three Larry (Susan) Kearney — 630.355.8980, x225, [email protected] Sundays each month at a 12:45 pm service. On selected Chuck (Sue) Lane — 630.355.8980, x223, [email protected] dates, baptisms are celebrated during weekend Mass. Patrick (Mary Jo) Lennon — 630.901.3223, [email protected] Parents are required to attend a Baptismal awareness and Liturgy and Music renewal session prior to the Baptism. Call Kathy Ferguson Jim Clauer, Director of Liturgy and Music, x111, [email protected] in the Church Office a few months in advance to make Samantha Delke, Associate Director of Liturgy and Music, x120, [email protected] arrangements. Faith Formation Melissa Santos, Principal at All Saints Catholic Academy, 630.961.6125 Matrimony: A couple planning on being married at Patti Dougherty, Director of Religious Education, x109, [email protected] St. Thomas should contact the church six months in Peggy Goralski, Director of Middle School Faith Formation, x123, [email protected] advance. One year is preferred. Either the bride or groom, Dorothy Grantham, Director of Youth/Young Adult Ministry, x117, [email protected] or their parents, must be a registered parishioner at least Chari Rosales, Director of Adult Education and RCIA, x138, [email protected] three months before setting a date. Call Diane McQueen Marge Coronado, Religious Education Assistant, x118, [email protected] to schedule. Outreach and Social Justice Religious Education: Call 630.305.6318 to register. Michael Ryder, Director of Outreach and Social Justice, x121, [email protected] Anne Schultz, OSJ Partner, x113, [email protected] RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults): Sally Meno, OSJ Associate, x137, [email protected] Any person wanting to learn more about the Catholic Pastoral Care Faith, or to join our Catholic community should call the Jan Olah, Director of Pastoral Care, x124 church at 630.355.8980. Felicia Lawlor,* Faith Community Nurse, x104, [email protected] Administration Counseling Service: Contact Jan Olah, Pastoral Care Janet Simmons, Finance/Business Officer, x106, [email protected] 630.355.8980, x124. Diane McQueen, Gen Office Administrative Asst., x101, [email protected] Kathy Ferguson, Gen Office Administrative Asst., x100, [email protected] Sunday Nursery: Nursery care is available for your Casey Braun,* Communications Coordinator, x110, [email protected] child age one (walking) to four at the 9:30 and 11:15 am Elizabeth Fisher,* Evening/Saturday Receptionist Masses. For more information call the church office. Mary Wright,* Evening/Saturday Receptionist Mary Derwinski,* Administration Asst., x143, [email protected] Our Outreach Twinning Parishes: Sue Sportiello,* Financial Asst., x143, [email protected] St. Thomas the Apostle has an ongoing twinning Marilyn DeMeo,* Database Coordinator (T/Th), x107, [email protected] relationship with the following parishes: Bob Hartmann,* Facility Manager, x133, [email protected] St. Marie Madeleine in Duchity, Haiti Parish Pastoral Council St. Agnes on the Lakota Indian Reservation, Barbara Mambu, Chair Alison Ohl Manderson, South Dakota Todd Galer Anne Scanlan St. Nicholas in Aurora, Illinois David Johanneson Commission Representatives Our Parish School: Linda Bailey, Service Deb Scheckel, Parish Life All Saints Catholic Academy Jeff Balsewicz, Worship Susan Wood O’Leary, Stewardship 1155 Aurora Ave Mary Beth Nagai, Faith Formation Naperville, IL 60540 630.961.6125 Ex-Officio Fr. Philip Danaher, Pastor Rev. Joseph Kappilumakkal, Parochial Vicar *indicates part-time staff 2 | March 22, 2020 St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church with fr danaher Dear Parish Family, In light of the COVID-19 outbreak that has affected our daily Fourth Sunday of Lent lives, I want to share the following message from Archbishop March 22, 2020 Jose Gomez, the Archbishop of Los Angeles and the president of The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. — Psalm 23:1 “With the worldwide outbreak of the coronavirus, we are confronted once more with the fragility of our lives, and again we are reminded of our common humanity — that the peoples of this world are our brothers and sisters, that we are all one Liturgy Schedule family under God. Cancelled until further notice “God does not abandon us. He goes with us even now in this time of trial and testing. In this Daily moment, it is important for us to anchor our hearts in the hope that we have in Jesus Christ. Now (Monday–Friday) is the time to intensify our prayers and sacrifices for the love of God and the love of our neighbor. Communion Service: 6:30 am Let us draw closer to one another in our love for him, and rediscover the things that truly matter in Rosary: 8:10 am our lives. Mass: 8:30 am “United with our Holy Father Pope Francis, let us pray in solidarity for our brothers and sisters here Divine Mercy Chaplet: 9:00 am and around the world who are sick. Let us pray for those who have lost loved ones to this virus. May God console them and grant them peace. (Saturday) “We pray also for doctors, nurses, and caregivers, for public health officials and all civic leaders. Rosary: 8:10 am May God grant them courage and prudence as they seek to respond to this emergency with Mass: 8:30 am compassion and in service to the common good. Divine Mercy Chaplet: 9:00 am “In this time of need, I invite all the faithful to seek together the maternal intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and I share this prayer with you: Weekend “Holy Virgin of Guadalupe, Queen of the Angels and Mother of the Americas. We fly to you today Saturday Mass of Anticipation: 4:30 pm as your beloved children. We ask you to intercede for us with your Son, as you did at the wedding Sunday: 8:00, 9:30, and 11:15 am, 6:00 pm in Cana. “Pray for us, loving Mother, and gain for our nation and world, and for all our families and loved Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every First Friday ones, the protection of your holy angels, that we may be spared the worst of this illness. “For those already afflicted, we ask you to obtain the grace of healing and deliverance. Hear the cries of those who are vulnerable and fearful, wipe away their tears and help them to trust. Welcome Guests and Visitors! We’re so glad you’re here and invite you to walk the “In this time of trial and testing, teach all of us in the Church to love one another and to be patient and kind. Help us to bring the peace of Jesus to our land and to our hearts. path of faith with us. St. Thomas strives to provide a spiritual home where all are welcome, where the “We come to you with confidence, knowing that you truly are our compassionate mother, health healing, reconciling, liberating love of God is shared by of the sick and cause of our joy. Shelter us under the mantle of your protection, keep us in the embrace of your arms, help us always to know the love of your Son, Jesus. Amen.” all. Join us! In the Word, Would you like to become a parishioner? Call Kathy Ferguson in the General Office at 630.355.8980, x100

This year marks the 35th Anniversary of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. Throughout this commemorative year, we as a parish family will explore the CHERISHED, CHARGED, CHALLENGED theme through liturgy, service and study.

St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church March 22, 2020 | 3 Worship Commission — Liturgy and Music Reflection on the Readings Readings for Today The scriptures help us see the darkness of our old selves being First Reading — As the prophet Samuel anointed David with oil, the transformed as we are exposed to the light of Christ. We have to choose spirit of the LORD rushed upon David (1 Samuel 16:1b, 6-7, 10-13a). to see the light of Christ in our lives, and the ways in which it can Psalm — The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want change our faith. (Psalm 23). Second Reading — You who were once darkness are now light in the Lord (Ephesians 5:8-14). Gospel — The man who had been blind from birth proclaimed: The one Jesus, during your ministry on Earth, you showed called Jesus made clay with his saliva, anointed my eyes with it, and told your power and caring by healing people of all ages me to wash (John 9:1-41 [1, 6-9, 13-17, 34-38]). The English translation of the Psalm Responses from Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, and stations of life from physical, mental and spiritual 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved. ailments. Be present now to people who need your loving touch because of COVID-19. May they feel your Readings for the Week power of healing through the care of doctors and Monday: Is 65:17-21; Ps 30:2, 4-6, 11-13b; Jn 4:43-54 Tuesday: Ez 47:1-9, 12; Ps 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9; Jn 5:1-16 nurses. Wednesday: Is 7:10-14, 8:10; Ps 40:7-11; Heb 10:4-10; Lk 1:26-38 Take away the fear, anxiety and feelings of isolation Thursday: Ex 32:7-14; Ps 106:19-23; Jn 5:31-47 from people receiving treatment or under quarantine. Friday: Wis 2:1a, 12-22; Ps 34:17-21, 23; Jn 7:1-2, 10, 25-30 Saturday: Jer 11:18-20; Ps 7:2-3, 9bc-12; Jn 7:40-53 Give them a sense of purpose in pursuing health and Sunday: Ez 37:12-14; Ps 130:1-8; Rom 8:8-11; protecting others from exposure to the disease. Protect Jn 11:1-45 [3-7, 17, 20-27, 33b-45] their families and friends and bring peace to all who love them. All-powerful God, we seek your wisdom daily. Be Liturgy Schedule and Mass Intentions with people making decisions that affect the lives Due to the cancellation of all Masses, the intentions below will be and futures of our families, communities, countries honored during the Mass that is being celebrated and recorded for our parishioners this weekend. The Mass will be made available on the St. and the wider world. Inspire and invigorate people Thomas website. developing better tests to diagnose the virus, vaccines Monday, March 23, 2020 to prevent it and protocols and communication to 8:30 am †Elena Trinidad, by Gemma Paras eliminate the disease’s spread. May truth and empathy Tuesday, March 24, 2020 be the touchstones of people setting policies for our 8:30 am †Ethel Lawler, by Matthew Carlyle protection. Amen. Wednesday, March 25, 2020 6:30 am Communion Service 8:30 am †Frederic Militante, by Family Thursday, March 26, 2020 8:30 am For those afflicted by COVID-19 Friday, March 27, 2020 8:30 am †Earl Clark, by Estella Hayes and Mary Clark Saturday, March 28, 2020 4:30 pm †John Vesper, by Mark Vesper †Jim Wolff, by Mary Ann †Danuta Cichocka, by Agata Chalupka and Family and Mariola Shelemej and Family Sunday, March 29, 2020 Fourth Sunday of Lent 8:00 am †Shirley Shepard, by Ken and Maxine Wiejaczka 9:30 am For the People of St. Thomas 11:15 am †Greg Hanyzeski, by The Hanyzeski Family

4 | March 22, 2020 St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church Faith and Formation Commission — Adult

Jesus was big on mercy: “Be merciful just as [also] your Father is merciful.” (Luke 6:36) Jesus was also big on forgiveness: “Forgive and you will be forgiven.” (Luke 6:37) He was big on extending compassion, rather than judging and condemning (Luke 6:37). Even while suffering during his crucifixion, Jesus continued to offer forgiveness: “Father, forgive them, they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34) C.A.R.E. His disciples also accepted the charge to continue Jesus’ mission of mercy and reconciliation. Stephen was a prime CORNER example of that. While being stoned to death by an angry mob, he asked God to not hold their sin against them (Acts 7:60). Barnabas took charge of Paul and convinced the other disciples to forgive him for previously persecuting members of the Church (Acts 9:27). Paul and Silas sang hymns of praise, even after being beaten and thrown in jail, after which they evangelized and baptized their jailer (Acts 16:25-34). Do we act as readily on Jesus’ command to forgive and be merciful? Faith and Formation Commission — Youth Easter Book for Children Calling All St. Thomas Are you looking for a book to help tell the story of Easter to your children or grandchildren? Try Young Artists… this one, “Easter Bunny’s Amazing Day” by Carol Benoist and Cathy Gilmore. It is about a little We would like your creativity and artwork bunny who experiences the love and joy of Jesus on Easter Sunday. It is beautifully illustrated and to grace the St. Thomas Easter bulletin. available on Amazon. From the designs submitted, one will be chosen for the bulletin cover and as Middle School Religious Education THANK YOU many as possible will be used throughout the bulletin. However, ALL designs will How quickly we have arrived at the end of another RE year. Middle school religious education at be displayed in the Gathering Area over St. Thomas happens because of a dedicated group of catechists and volunteers. These volunteers Easter week. include our catechists: Mary Wright, Darlene Dionne-Karales, Mary Szczap, Amy Duran, Morgan Ede, Kathy Powell, Joy Ramirez, Carrie Wujek, Chris Baker, Jen Kennedy, John Kennedy and Tim Here is how to submit your design: Berglind. There are also several catechist aides, administrative helpers and substitute catechists 1. Think about Christ rising from the who help to make each class session run smoothly. These volunteers are: Carol Healy, Molly Ede, dead, new life and how much God Elijah Powell, Vicki Agustsson, Carolyn Vondran, Nancy Trattner, Gina Howley and Janet Kirkman. loves us. How can you show that in a Thanks to all of these volunteers for sharing the gifts of their faith, time, and talent with St. Thomas picture? middle school students. 2. Once you have an idea, complete your picture on a sheet of 8.5 x 11-inch white paper (portrait mode works Striving to be Missionary Disciples best). Include your name and age in Pope Francis has challenged Catholic young people around the world to be missionary disciples. the bottom right-hand corner of your This year, middle school students, from St. Thomas, have accepted that challenge by being a ‘masterpiece.’ You may submit your part of the Just5Days mission program, from July 13-17, in St. Joseph, Michigan. This trip can work in black and white or in color. be life-changing as these students are encouraged to make a habit of reaching out in service, Due to printing limitations, the image not only while on mission, but also back home. In serving others, our middle school students are chosen for the bulletin cover will be transformed. printed in grayscale; however, colorful art is encouraged. Please pray for our youth, especially those who have volunteered to be a part of Just5Days. Pray that their experience will be marked by joy and hope, that their service to those in need will be 3. Return your artwork to the Religious fruitful, and that they will grow in knowledge and faith through the experience. Education office byMonday, March 30. Drive-Thru BBQ on May 9! Save the date!!! Support this summer’s middle school mission trip to Question of St. Joseph, Michigan, and get a delicious meal to go! Watch for more the week ... information in the coming weeks. Are you ever blind to the presence of God? ? St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church March 22, 2020 | 5 Service Commission — Outreach and Social Justice

2020 Lenten Project — Goal $7,000 Located in Chicago, Bethany House of Hospitality offers housing and support services to young immigrant women as they journey to independence.

Elizabeth’s Story Now she lives at Bethany House of Hospitality. She is working on her Imagine you are 18 years old and have spent fully half of your life high school diploma and has just received a work permit. Efforts to searching for a safe and welcoming place to call home. That is find her family left in Angola have been unsuccessful, but she holds Elizabeth’s reality. She fled her home in the Democratic Republic of out hope. For now, we at Bethany House are her family. the Congo at nine years old with her family (Mom, Dad and younger brother and sister), seeking to escape a brutal civil war described Bethany House offers housing and support services for women 18- as “the bloodiest war since World War II.” The family landed in a 22 years old as they journey to independence. Since its founding two refugee camp in Angola. years ago, Bethany House of Hospitality has been a temporary home to more than 40 women and 6 children from Central America, Africa It was evident, even to a child, that this new country did not welcome and the Middle East. Their average length of stay has been 6 months them. A year later Elizabeth accompanied her father to Brazil where as they learn English, study for the GED and wend their way through they hoped to establish a home and reunite the family. She went to the immigration court system. work braiding hair to earn money. They lost contact with the family back in the refugee camp. Forced to uproot again, they made the Bethany House Lenten Project Donations treacherous journey north through eight different countries. Her Pick-up a little brown box in the Narthex or Gathering Area. Save father died crossing the Río Grande. Elizabeth arrived in the U.S.— your change and dollars throughout Lent. Checks can be made both alone and as one of thousands of unaccompanied children at to “St. Thomas OSJ” with “Lenten Project” in the memo. Every bit our southern border. helps. Return the little brown box to the Gathering Area throughout Lent.

Haiti Medical Mission The next Haiti Twinning Medical Mission is April 25–May 2. While in Duchity, the team will see more than 700 people. Roller Suitcases Needed The Medical Team will travel with 20 suitcases filled with donated over the counter medications and other purchased medications. Large and medium sized suitcases with rollers are needed. They can be dropped off at the Outreach and Social Justice Office any time between now and April 5. Over the Counter Medications Donated over the counter medications reduce the medication purchases that need to be made. Donations can be placed in the bin in the Gathering Area through April 5. ADULT: Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Tums, Omeprazole, Mylanta, Pepto-Bismol, Multivitamins, Vitamin C, Vitamin B-complex, Zinc Supplement, liquid cough/cold medicine, Zyrtec, Allegra and Artificial Tears CHILD: Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Chewable Multivitamins, Benadryl, Pepto-Bismol, liquid cold/cough medicine and Infant Simethicone drops OINTMENTS: Anti-fungals like Lotrimin and Clotrimazole and triple antibiotic ointment CHAPSTICK: For all ages! PLEASE DO NOT DONATE: Gummies or Expired Medications Donations to support the purchase of other medications can be made to “St. Thomas OSJ” with “Medical Mission” in the memo or on-line at www. stapostle-haiti.org. Questions? Contact team leader Anne [email protected].

6 | March 22, 2020 St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church Car Donation Needed Waterleaf Miracle of the Month Transitional Housing Family “Hannah” confirmed she was considering abortion with her husband supporting her decision. The Transitional Housing Ministry is in the However, she was struggling with the idea of ending this pregnancy. During the ultrasound Hannah process of interviewing a new family to bring did not show much expression other than her slightly teary eyes that gave away her inner turmoil. into the St. Thomas Transitional Housing program … a single mother with a one year Hannah did agree to return for a repeat ultrasound, agreeing it would be good to confirm continued old child. Lack of transportation is a major viability. During the repeat ultrasound appointment, the baby was very active and she heard the impediment to her movement toward self- heartbeat. Hannah said her expected due date is only one day off from her Grandma’s birthday and sufficiency. that would make her Grandma happy. This was our first indication that Hannah and her husband were starting to adjust to the idea of having a new baby in their family. If you are considering purchasing a new car, please consider donating your older vehicle. If Directly following her appointment, Hannah met with our Aspire Resource department for an you have a car that is not being utilized, please assessment so they could help her address her financial hardships. The Resource Specialist was consider donating the vehicle. St. Thomas happy to report that Hannah was feeling positive about her pregnancy. She planned to tell her Cares will have the donated vehicle inspected other children that weekend as she will have completed her first trimester. for safety and will provide for any repairs required. Contact Mike in the Outreach and Hannah’s relationship with Aspire will continue as she moves forward with OB care for her Social Justice Office at [email protected], pregnancy. Waterleaf provided her much needed support and information at a very vulnerable time. 630.355.8980, x121. Keep Waterleaf and their patients, like Hannah, in your prayers. Your support brings the gift of life.

Pizza and Movie Night Results Unplanned Twenty-seven people from St. Thomas and other Naperville Catholic parishes attended the showing of Unplanned on February 29.

Attendees expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to view the film. After viewing the movie, there was about a half hour of discussion. Much of the discussion focused on ways to get this movie and its message to young people. Consensus was the public schools would not show this movie. How can we work through the Religious Education departments at local churches to show the film?

The movie was very well received. If you’re interested in borrowing the church’s DVD, please contact Anne Schultz in the Outreach and Social Justice Office at [email protected] or 630.355.8980, x113. The film is also available on Netflix.

St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church March 22, 2020 | 7 Service Commission — Pastoral Care

From the Behavioral Health Ministry World Bipolar Day World Autism Awareness Day, April 2, 2020 March 30, 2020 World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) aims to put a spotlight on the Bipolar disorder, also known as manic- hurdles that people with autism and others living with autism face every depressive illness, is a brain disorder day. that causes unusual shifts in mood, Source: Webmd.com energy, activity levels, and the ability to Autism spectrum disorder is a condition related to brain development that impacts how a person carry out day-to-day tasks. The range is perceives and socializes with others, causing problems in social interaction and communication. from periods of extremely “up,” elated, It begins in early childhood and eventually causes problems functioning in society — socially, and energized behavior (known as in school and at work. Children may show symptoms of autism within the first year while others manic episodes) to very sad, “down,” or develop normally and then go through a period of regression between 18 and 24 months of age hopeless periods (known as depressive when they develop autism symptoms. episodes). While there is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, intensive, early treatment can make a big difference in the lives of many children. Signs and Symptoms: People with bipolar disorder experience Symptoms periods of unusually intense emotion, Children may show early signs of autism such as reduced eye contact, lack of response to their changes in sleep patterns and activity name or indifference to caregivers. Some may develop normally but then suddenly become levels, and unusual behaviors. These withdrawn or aggressive or loose language skills they’ve already acquired. distinct periods are called “mood Below are some common signs shown by adults and children who have autism spectrum disorder. episodes.” Mood episodes are drastically • Problems with social interaction and communication skills. different from the moods and behaviors • Limited and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities. that are typical for the person. Extreme • Difficulty with language or social skills changes in energy, activity, and sleep go • Teen years can bring more challenging behavioral and emotional problems. along with mood episodes.

When to see a doctor Risk Factors: If you’re concerned about your child’s development or you suspect that your child may have autism Scientists are studying the possible spectrum disorder, discuss your concerns with your doctor. causes of bipolar disorder. It is likely that Source: Mayo Clinic, mayoclinic.org many factors contribute to the illness or increase risk: • Brain Structure and Functioning Save the date • Genetics Standing Strong Against Bullying, part III of Facing the Bully Without & Within. • Family History This presentation will take place on Monday, April 20, 2020, from 7:00–9:00 pm in the Lighthouse. To register, please contact Marge Coronado at 630.355.8980, x118 or mcoronado@ Treatment: stapostle.org. Proper diagnosis and treatment help people with bipolar disorder lead healthy and productive lives, even those with the most severe forms of bipolar disorder— Pastoral Care Resources gain better control of their mood For Spiritual Support and Prayer, swings and other bipolar symptoms. please contact the following individuals if you are in need of assistance: An effective treatment plan usually includes a combination of medication Counseling Hospital/Pastoral Care Info and psychotherapy (also called “talk Jan, Pastoral Care Office Edward Hospital has a pastoral care therapy”). 630.355.8980, x124 department with a Catholic Chaplain for an Diane, General Office emergency anointing or a Eucharistic visit. Visit the NIMH’s Help for Mental Illnesses 630.355.8980, x101 webpage for more information and St. Thomas Pastoral Care visit resources. Health Resource Jan, Pastoral Care Office Parish Nurses 630.355.8980, x124 Source: NIMH.org Felicia, 630.355.8980, x104 Diane, General Office Jan, 630.355.8980, x124 630.355.8980, x101

8 | March 22, 2020 St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church A Coronavirus Prayer

Jesus Christ, you traveled through towns and villages “curing every disease and illness.” At your command, the sick were made well. Come to our aid now, in the midst of the global spread of the coronavirus, that we may experience your healing love.

Heal those who are sick with the virus. May they regain their strength and health through quality medical care.

Heal us from our fear, which prevents nations from working together and neighbors from helping one another. Heal us from our pride, which can make us claim invulnerability to a disease that knows no borders.

Jesus Christ, healer of all, stay by our side in this time of uncertainty and sorrow.

Be with those who have died from the virus. May they be at rest with you in your eternal peace.

Be with the families of those who are sick or have died. As they worry and grieve, defend them from illness and despair. May they know your peace.

Be with the doctors, nurses, researchers and all medical professionals who seek to heal and help those affected and who put themselves at risk in the process. May they know your protection and peace.

Be with the leaders of all nations. Give them the foresight to act with charity and true concern for the well-being of the people they are meant to serve. Give them the wisdom to invest in long-term solutions that will help prepare for or prevent future outbreaks. May they know your peace, as they work together to achieve it on earth.

Whether we are home or abroad, surrounded by many people suffering from this illness or only a few, Jesus Christ, stay with us as we endure and mourn, persist and prepare. In place of our anxiety, give us your peace.

Jesus Christ, heal us.

St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church March 22, 2020 | 9 Stewardship and Administration

Last weekend’s stewardship of financial gifts Weekly Sunday Offertory March 15, 2020 Sunday Collection Offering* $0 Credit Card On-Line Giving none this week Automatic Direct Debit none this week (5th and 20th each month) During this trying time as we navigate the coronavirus we can ask Mailed in and stock donations $4,911 ourselves how we can help. What can we do as Christians? How can we use our time, talent, and treasure to try to make things Total for the week $4,911 *Based on Collection Counters Reports prior to bank confirmation better? Here are some ideas, but feel free to think of your own ways to help. Fiscal Year (7/1 to 6/30) $1,359, 784 Weekly Average 7/1/2019 to date $35,784 • Reach out to those who need to social distance themselves or self-quarantine. A simple phone call or e-mail may brighten Offertory Goal Year to date $1,403,074 their day. Over/short of goal to date ($43,290) • Consider donating to Catholic Charities or other organizations Goal for Fiscal Year 7/1 to 6/30 $1,920,000 who provide services to the poor or disenfranchised. • Consider helping parents by sharing stories with the children. $ of Annual Sunday Offertory Goal 71% Make up one or read one on FaceTime or Skype. Grandparents Remaining for Fiscal Year goal $560,216 would be great at that. This week, the Sunday collection is $43,290 behind goal Of course, all prayers are welcome and necessary. We receive our so far this year. Capital needs restricted gifts were $90 this past gifts from the Father and He always listens to our prayers. week. We are grateful to those who recognize the need and Please keep well and follow the suggestions that our medical respond. experts are presenting.

Please, Give We missed you at Mass last weekend! Our weekend Masses were cancelled in response to directives from the Diocese of Joliet to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19. We pray you are healthy and remain so until we can again joyfully celebrate Mass together.

Even though you weren’t able to drop your donation envelopes in the collection basket, you can still mail your donation using one of the postage paid return envelopes in your envelope packet. Explore other ways to support your parish, St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, by going to www.stapostle.org and clicking on the Giving graphic in the lower right-hand corner.

We rely on your continuing support, especially through this health crisis, to be the vibrant and engaging faith home you come to for spiritual nourishment and development. Please, give.

10 | March 22, 2020 St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church Checked These Listings Lately? Thank You to Our Advertisers!

Make it a habit to check these advertisers when you need a product or a service. And when you purchase, be sure to mention you saw their ad in the St. Thomas bulletin!

Two beautiful locations: 44 S. Mill Street • Naperville, IL (630) 355-0213 • Historic Downtown 15219 S. Joliet Rd. • Plainfield, IL Funeral Homes & Cremation Services Dave Jones, Parishioner (815) 436-9221 • Rte. 59 & Rte. 30 www.friedrichjones.comJones Family Stephanie Jones-Kastelic • Ray Jones Esser Hayes Insurance Group Inc. Insurance is Our Only Business Since 1939 With Excellent Companies & Competitive Rates 1811 High Grove • 355-2077 BORTER HEATING & COOLING Get this weekly bulletin delivered by email - for FREE! 24 Hour Service Sign up here: https://www.jspaluch.com/BulletinSubscribe.aspx Courtesy of J.S. Paluch Company, Inc. (630) 668-5885 ✂ Please Cut Out This “Thank You Ad” Naper Auto and Present It The Next Time You Works Patronize One of Our Advertisers Your One Stop Shop Since 1977

Insurance work Thank you for advertising in Free New windows Estimates 320 N. Mill St. our church bulletin. Re-siding Naperville, IL 60540 I am patronizing your business 897-1538 Use Local! Duanne Kleckner — Doug Kleckner (630) 420-2886 because of it! If you own a business or know of a local business that might like to support your local Catholic parish by advertising in its parish bulletin, please contact WHY ADVERTISE J.S. Paluch. Grow your business by advertising in the church bulletin and create strong connections with your target audience. Benefits include: IN YOUR LOCAL GREAT COVERAGE - 97% of all households attending church take at least one CHURCH BULLETIN? church bulletin home every Sunday. GREAT VALUE - 70% of all households are aware of and look at the advertising in the church bulletin and 68% of households surveyed when making a choice between businesses are inclined to J.S. Paluch will create, produce and print your ad for less choose the one who advertised in the church bulletin. than you’d spend elsewhere.They help you reach GREAT LOYALTY - 41% of households do business with consumers at extremely affordable rates and offer a company specifically because they are advertising in the options to advertise effectively and church bulletin. keep pace with market change. GREAT PRODUCT - 62% of households keep the church bulletin the entire week as reference.

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