“St. Benedict, Founder of Western Monasticism”

NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD

The day before yesterday, July 11, we celebrated the feast day of one of the most important saints in the Church calendar, St. Benedict the Abbot, who is known to us as the founder of Western Monasticism. In about the year 529 he established a monastery at Monte Cassino, where he wrote his well-known Rule of St. Benedict, which is a book of precepts written for the monks who live in communities which follow his spiritual way of life. Through this book he has led many thousands of women and men to a closer relationship with God through a life of discipline and prayer. During the 1500 years of its existence, this Rule has become the leading guide in Western Christianity for monastic living in community, both in Catholicism and (since the time of the Reformation) in the Anglican and Protestant traditions.

Now one might ask, “What does a saint that lived a millennium and a half ago and his Rule have to do with me and my life today?” It is certainly true that we live in a time when monasteries full of monks and nuns are few and far between and the monastic way of life is so foreign to us that we probably hardly ever think of it, if we think of it at all. However, St. Benedict and his way of life do have something to say to us across the ages.

For that reason the Benedictine way of life is still one of the major spiritual disciplines in the Church today. Even the name of the saint speaks of this as Benedict is a Latin name which is rendered “Blessing” in English. One of the important spiritual concepts that St. Benedict taught his followers in his Rule is that of “Ora et Labora”, (Latin for Prayer and Work). With this motto St. Benedict taught his monks to mingle their prayer and their work throughout the day in order to sanctify their work and truly make it a gift to God. His monks follow a strict day order in terms of prayer and work. Their days begin and end with prayer and meditation with a schedule of work in between. They also stop their work several times during the day to pray briefly. In this way they are able to bless their work and offer it to God as a good work done with their own hands.

The concept of “Ora et Labora” can be a very good way for us to bring God into our work throughout our day. Most of us live in a world that is very fast-paced and noisy. It is often filled with distractions which cause us to be impatient and aggravated. Learning to interject a little bit of prayer into our work several times a day can do a lot to give a sense of calm and tranquility in the midst of the turmoil of our lives. We go to Church on Sunday and our work seems so far away, and we go to work on Monday and God seems so far away.

The vast majority of us do not have the luxury during our day to go to a chapel or a church to pray in this way, but we DO have the ability to stop our work for just a few moments several times a day to offer a silent prayer to God wherever we might be. In this way we too can sanctify our work remembering that it is more than just a job that helps us pay our bills, but that what we do truly is “the work of our own hands”, and thus is a pleasing gift that we give to God who in turn is pleased with our offering. Sometimes we are very good at separating God from our everyday life.

One easy way to make Benedict’s concept of “Ora et Labora” is to choose three moments during the day to stop and say a prayer, such as mid-morning, noon and mid-afternoon (9:00-12:00-3:00), or noon, mid-afternoon, evening (12:00-3:00-6:00). The following prayer is one that St. Benedict himself composed, or you can use any other favorite prayer, or just be impromptu and make one up in the silence of your heart. If you like, cut this prayer out and carry in your pocket, purse or wallet to take it out several times during the day.

As we celebrate this feast on St. Benedict let’s hear his invitation to mix and prayer and our work so that we may feel the presence of God in every moment of our lives. May the peace of Christ dwell deeply in us!

Father Tom Lamping

Prayer for the Gifts to Seek God and Live in Him Father, in your goodness grant me the ability to understand you, the perception to discern you, and the reason to appreciate you. In your kindness give me the diligence to look for you, the wisdom to discover you, and the spirit to apprehend you. In your graciousness bestow on me a heart to contemplate you, ears to hear you, eyes to see you, and a tongue to speak of you. In your mercy confer on me a conversation pleasing to you, the patience to wait for you, and the perseverance to long for you. Grant me a perfect end — your holy presence. Amen. — Saint Benedict of Nursia

Are you new to our parish? Welcome! Have you recently moved? May God bless your new home!

CON DIOS NADA ES IMPOSIBLE “San Benedicto (Benito), Fundador de Monasticismo Occidental”

Anteayer, el 11 de Julio, celebramos el santo de uno de los santos más importantes en el calendario de la Iglesia, San Benedicto (Benito) quien es conocido como el fundador del monasticismo occidental. A eso del año 529 estableció un monasterio en Monte Cassino, donde escribió su muy conocida Regla de San Benedicto, el cual es un libro de pautas escrito por los monjes quienes viven en las comunidades que siguen su disciplina de vida espiritual. Através de este libro Benedicto ha guiado miles de mujeres y hombres a una relación más cerca de Dios por una vida de disciplina y oración. Durante los 1500 años de su existencia, esta Regla ha llegado a ser la guía en la Cristianismo Occidental para vivir en comunidad monástica, tanto en el Catolicismo como (desde la Reformación Protestante) en las tradiciones Anglicanas y Protestantes.

Uno puede preguntar, “Qué tiene este santo que vivió desde hace un milenio y medio y su Regla tiene que ver conmigo hoy?” Es cierto que vivimos en un tiempo cuando monasterios llenos de monjes y monjas son muy pocos y que la manera monástica de vivir está lejos de nuestras mentes y pensamos muy poco en ella. No obstante, San Benedicto y su manera de vivir SI tienen algo que enseñarnos através de las edades. Por esta razón la vida Benedictina todavía es una de las disciplinas espirituales mayores en la Iglesia hoy día. Hasta el nombre del santo nos habla de esto porque Benedicto se traduce como “Bendició” en español. Uno de los conceptos espirituales más importantes que San Benedicto les enseñó a sus seguidores por su Regla era el de “Ora et Labora” (que en Latín quiere decir, Oración y Labor). Con esta lema San Benedicto les enseñó a sus monjes a mezclar su oración con su trabajo através del día para santificarlo y hacerlo un regalo para Dios. Sus monjes siguen una orden estricta de oración y trabajo. Sus día empiezan y terminan con la oración y la meditación con un horario de trabajo en medio. También dejan de trabajar varias veces al día para orar brevemente. De esta manera pueden bendecir su trabajo y ofrecérselo a Dios como una obra buena hecha de sus propias manos.

El concepto de “Ora el Labora” puede ser una manera muy buena de traer a Dios a nuestro lugar de trabajo através del día. La mayoría de nosotros vivimos en un mundo que se mueve muy rápido y es muy ruidoso. Muchas veces está lleno de distracciones que nos causan impaciencia y ansiedad. Aprender a injertar un poco de oración nos puede dar una poca de calma y tranquilidad entre el bullo. Vamos a misa los domingos y nuestro trabajo parece lejos de nosotros, y cuando vamos a trabajar en lunes Dios puede sentirse lejos. La mayoría de nosotros no tenemos el lujo de poder ir a una iglesia o capilla para orar durante el día cuando trabajamos, pero SI tenemos la habilidad de parar nuestro trabajo por un momento varias veces al día para ofrecerle una oración silenciosa a Dios donde nos encontremos. Así podemos santificar nuestro trabajo recordando que es más que algo que nos paga las cuentas, sino es algo que es verdaderamente “la obra de nuestras manos”, y por eso es un regalo que complace a Dios. A veces somos muy hábiles en separar Dios de nuestra vida diaria.

Una manera fácil de hacer el concepto de San Benedicto de “Ora et Labora” es escoger tres momentos durante el día para parar y orar, como en la media-mañana, mediodía y media-tarde (9:00-12:00-3:00), o mediodía, media-tarde, tarde (12:00-3:00-6:00). La oración siguiente es una compuesta por San Benedicto mismo, o se puede usar cualquier oración favorita que tenga, o componer una en el silencio de su corazón. Si guste se puede cortarla de aquí y llevarla en su bolsa o en la cartera y sacarla varias veces al día para orar. Mientras celebramos este santo de San Benedicto, oremos su invitación a mezclar la oración y el trabajo para poder sentir la presencia de Dios en cada momento del día. ¡Qué la paz de Cristo viva profundamente en nosotros!

Padre Tomás Lamping

Oración por los Dones de Buscar a Dios y Vivir en El Padre, en tu bondad dame la habilidad de comprenderte, la percepción de discernirte, y la razón de apreciarte. Dame la diligencia de buscarte, la sabiduría de descubrirte, y el espíritu de poseerte. En tu gracia dame un corazón para contemplarte, unos oídos para oírte, ojos para verte, y una lengua para hablar de tí. En tu misericordia dame una conversión que te complazca, la paciencia de esperarte, y la perseverancia para añorarte. Dame un fin perfecto – tu santa presencia. Amén. — San Benedicto de Nursia ¿Es tu primera vez en nuestra parroquia? ¡Bienvenidos!

¿Se ha mudado recientemente? ¡Que Dios bendiga su nuevo hogar! Por favor visite o contacte la oficina parroquial al 773-539-7510 para registrarse o arreglar su registración actual.

Announcements, July 13, 2008

PRAY THE ROSARY The Rosary is prayed every Saturday morning after the 9 a.m. Mass. Come for Mass and stay for the Rosary. People are needed to lead the prayers of the Rosary. Please call Joann Salas at 773-583-1371 or email jasnetworks@myibocs.com.

FRUIT OF THE WORD The seed is the word of God. The agricultural metaphors in all of today’s readings give richness to the message that the word of God, cultivated in our hearts, bears much fruit in our lives. Creation itself awaits the redemption of all, even as our bodies await the resurrection. Just as we will rejoice in the fulfillment of God’s word, so will all of creation sing for joy in the Reign of God. The word of God is effective and holy; it brings about exactly what it says. It is not futile or empty, but rich in meaning for those who hear and are healed. Those who hear the word of God and keep it will, with all creation, bear much fruit and sing for joy. The one who hears the word bears fruit El que escucha la palabra dará fruto

RUTO DEL MUNDO La semilla es la Palabra de Dios. Las metáforas de la agricultura en todas las lecturas de hoy brindan riqueza al mensaje de que la palabra de Dios, cultivada en nuestro corazón, produce mucho fruto en nuestra vida. La creación misma espera la redención de todos, hasta nuestro cuerpo aguarda la resurrección. Así como nos regocijamos por el cumplimiento de la Palabra de Dios, así la creación toda cantará de gozo en el Reino de Dios.

La Palabra de Dios es eficaz y santa, produce exactamente lo que dice. No es inútil ni vacía, sino rica en significado para quienes la escuchan y son sanados. Quienes escuchan la palabra de Dios y la guardan, con toda la creación, darán mucho fruto y cantarán de gozo.

CALENDAR WEEK IS HERE!

The Parish Calendar Process is Changing! Calendar Week 2008-2009 will begin Monday, July 14 and continue through Saturday, July 19. Calendar Week replaces the Calendar Meeting as the means by which the parish calendar for

August 2008 through July 2009 will be put together. All leaders and contact persons for parish organizations should have received information in the mail about the new parish calendar process. The new process is based on the individual placement of event-request labels in a printed calendar.

Groups are asked to send representatives to the parish office this week, July 14-19. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday. If you know you will not be available during any of these times, please send someone else to represent your group’s needs. Thank you for all that you do for our parish community!

MAKE IT EASY: SHOP MARKET DAY! Shop Market Day, the food service program that offers restaurant quality food products with a portion of proceeds going directly to the school. Market Day has something for every household. Orders due by Friday, July 25. Internet orders due by noon Wednesday, July 30. Pick-up is 9:15 to 10 a.m. Saturday, August 2 in the Guild Hall Gym.

SUMMER TOILETRY COLLECTION St. Vincent DePaul Society (SVDP) is collecting individual- sized toiletries for the Franciscan Outreach Ministry, which runs one of the largest case management programs and shelter for the homeless in Chicago. Larger sizes are also being collected for Girls and Boys Town in Back of the Yards, a transitional shelter for teens. A collection basket will be in the back of church.

SHOPPING WITH THE ANGELS Gift cards are a great way to let the recipient get “just what they’ve always wanted” or to make your own shopping more convenient. See a Shop With the Angels representative in back of church after Mass on Sunday or at the Parish Center from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays.

BELLA MOVIE TO BE SHOWN Bella, the top-rated movie of 2007, is being shown at the Voss Center, 4412 N. Western Ave. There will be two screenings of this PG-13 film: 8 p.m. Friday, July 18 and 11 a.m. Saturday, July 19.

Bella is a love story that goes much deeper than romance. A story about a man who gave up his life to save the girl he loved, Bella is a heartwarming story that celebrates life, love, family and relationships. Bella is inspired by a true story that shows how one day in New York City changed three people’s lives forever.

Winner of the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival, Best Picture and Best Actor at the 2008 Movie Guide Awards and the prestigious Legacy Award from the Smithsonian Institute Latino Center, Bella is a critical triumph.

Tickets are $5 at the door or in advance at www.northsiderespectlife.com. Advance purchases include free popcorn. The event is sponsored by the Northside Respect Life Community who wants you to know that, as the movie proclaims, “true love goes beyond romance.”

RESPECT LIFE THANK YOU The Respect Life Committee would like to thank everyone who purchased cookies for their dads, grandfathers, uncles, step fathers, etc., from the Father’s Day Cookie Sale. Together we raised nearly $250 to continue our work for the Culture of Life here at Queen of Angels. Keep an eye out for the Respect Life Rosaries and Walk-A-Thon in October, and a Found Families Mass to celebrate National Adoption Month in November. Thank you for your generosity!

CALL FOR A/V EQUIPMENT Do you show movies in your backyard during the summer or project them on your garage at Halloween? Do you travel for work and own portable equipment for presentations?

The Respect Life Committee is looking for parishioners willing to loan out equipment for the upcoming screenings of Bella. A screen and sound hook-up equipment have already been donated through the generosity of our parishioners.

However, a DVD Player and projector (with appropriate cables to the player) are still being sought. If you are able to loan us this equipment for the July 18 and July 19 screenings and/or give us your expert set-up advice, please call the parish office at 773-539-7510. Thank you for your help!

Knowing God is not so much a question of opening a book and reading about God, but of opening the heart and loving God. —Anonymous

TEENS TAKE TIME FOR GOD ON NORTH SIDE KAIROS Are you a teen struggling with the big issues of College, Friends and Faith? Are you looking for something fun to do this summer? Would you like to discover more about yourself and find out what it means to be on “God’s Time?”

Students who have just completed their sophomore, junior or senior years of high school are invited to a four-day, co-ed North Side Kairos retreat at Bellarmine Jesuit Retreat House in Barrington. Firmly grounded in Ignatian spirituality, the retreat gives teens a time to examine, discuss and reflect on commitment to family, friends and God. And of course, since it is summer, there is also time to enjoy nature, laugh and play.

This diverse, multi-parish retreat currently draws teen participants from both city and suburban parishes. It is open to all public, private and Catholic school students who have not already attended a Kairos retreat. The retreat will be held August 8-11 and costs $200, which includes all lodging, transportation and meals. Financial help is available. You owe it to yourself to take these retreat days and make friends with others, with God, and with yourself. For more info or to apply, contact Rachel at rhohner@queenofangelschicago.org or 773-539-7510.

THEOLOGY ON TAP AT ST. BEN’S The weekly Theology on Tap speaker series presented by the Ravenswood Catholic Young Adults (RCYA) begins July 16 and continues Wednesdays through August 6 in Heidenreich Hall at St. Benedict. All speakers begin at 7:30 p.m. This event will appeal to anyone who likes provocative discussion, appealing topics, great speakers and good fellowship. -- July 16— Just Be It: Discerning Your Gifts, Mr. Douglas Scott -- July 23 — How the Gospels Were Written, Fr. William J. O’Shea -- July 30 — Christ With Me, Christ Before Me, Christ Behind Me: Inviting Christ into Every Aspect of Your Life, Sr. Theresa Sullivan -- August 6 — How to Win the Love of Your Life: Intimacy, Sexuality and Relationships, Mr. and Mrs. Brian Hengesbaugh and Mary-Louise Kurey For more information, call Craig at 773-653-8834.

RCYA bible study meets on the second and fourth Fridays of each month from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Contact Jamie Basso at jamiebasso@yahoo.com.

The next monthly organizational meeting will follow the 6:30 p.m. Mass at St. Benedict on July 20 at Resi’s Bierstube, 2034 W. Irving Park. Ideas on improving the organization and volunteer spirit are needed. Unless otherwise specified, meetings are the fourth Sunday of the month. For more information, call 773-618-9100.

Ravenswood Catholic Young Adults is a group of Catholic adults who provide service, spiritual and social outreach to build God’s kingdom within our hearts and our community. Please visit the RCYA website at www.rcyachicago.org for a full list of upcoming RCYA events.

DO YOU KNOW ABOUT SPRED? We invite you to consider extending yourself in friendship to a person with developmental disabilities and becoming part of one of our SPRED faith communities. We offer this invitation to those willing to help fill a void in the life of someone who faces life with special challenges and is waiting to participate in SPRED when sessions begin in September. Though this may be the height of summer, we are looking to you to hear the need.

SPRED (Special Religious Development) is a program in which persons with developmental disabilities come together with a spiritual friend/ catechist to share a one-on-one relationship and form with others a small faith community. We are looking for parishioners to participate as catechists. We are looking for you to see the need.

SPRED provides a method to guide all participants in our desire to know God, discovering his presence in our lives and to grow together in faith. There is a simple structure to each of our sessions that leads us to reflect on what is profound in our lives and in our faith. We are looking to you to consider the value.

SPRED gives persons with developmental disabilities an opportunity for celebration and worship and prepares them for the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist and Reconciliation. This past May it was our privilege to witness and celebrate First Communion and Confirmation with our friend, Stuart. When any of us is lifted up in faith, we are all stronger. We are looking to you to see the promise.

SPRED, a ministry in the Archdiocese of Chicago, welcomes people of all ages with a variety of developmental disabilities into the faith life of the parish. SPRED serves age groups from children to adults (6-10 years old, 11-16 years old, 17-21 years old, and 22 years and older). At Queen of Angels, adults 22 and older are welcomed by our three SPRED faith communities. Our neighboring parishes serve the younger age groups. Queen of Angels also serves as the north side center for observation and training in the Archdiocese.

At Queen of Angels, we meet on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evenings. SPRED members meet once each week, for approximately 24 weeks between September and May. Bi-weekly sessions consist of preparation by the SPRED members for the gathering with our friends the following week. We need caring men and women to open themselves to friendship with our special friends this fall. We are looking to you to answer our call.

For more information, please contact Julie Hess at 773-593-3634. If you know of someone with developmental disabilities of any age that may be interested in participating in SPRED or learning more, please direct them to us.

CATHOLIC SCRIPTURE SCHOOL Chicago Catholic Scripture School of the Archdiocese of Chicago offers Catholic biblical scholarship, prayer and long-term faith formation to help adults bring the light of God’s Word into their lives. Come and share the Word when the next session begins in September. Register now for classes to be held 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays at St. Teresa of Avila. Call 312-243-3700.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES GOLF OUTING Don’t miss Catholic Charities 11th Annual Golf Invitational at Cog Hill Golf and Country Club and Ruffled Feathers Golf Club in Lemont on Wednesday, July 23. All proceeds benefit Catholic Charities Family Services. For more information, contact Melissa Michaels at 312-948-6797.

COMMONS COMMUNITY SERVICE The Commons Community Service Team thanks everyone who participated in our May project. More than 50 backpacks were collected along with 30 pieces of luggage and 600 books in celebration of Foster Care Month. Your continued generosity is amazing!

If you would like to help plan future projects or just have good ideas to share, please join Commons Thursday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the Voss Center. A broad representation of the parish is sought.

Questions? Call Diane Dugard at 773-588-3601 or tomanddi2000@yahoo.com. Thanks again for all you do!

July 13, 2008 Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time—Our Week’s Work and Prayers

We Remember: Members of the Parish Remembrance Society
We Pray For: Andy Byrne, June Weber, Cleo McDonald, Evie Ross, Rosemarie Micklinghoff, Gilbert Pacheco, William Butt, John Wojdyla and Pamela Rill

MONDAY, JULY 14—BL. KATERI TEKAKWITHA
Is 1:10-17 | Ps 50:8-9, 16bc-17, 21 and 23 | Mt 10:34-11:1
7:00 MORNING MASS
† Mary Jane Schuman—Anniversary
† Special Intention
9:00 MORNING MASS
† Alice Cusack

TUESDAY, JULY 15—ST. BONAVENTURE
Is 7:1-9 | Ps 48:2-3a, 3b-4, 5-6, 7-8 | Mt 11:20-24
7:00 MORNING MASS
† John and Mary Byrne
9:00 MORNING MASS
† Albert Tuffey

WEDNESDAY, JULY 16—ST. BRIDGET OF SWEDEN
Is 10:5-7, 13b-16 | Ps 94:5-6, 7-8, 9-10, 14-15 | Mt 11:25-27
7:00 MORNING MASS
† Robert G. Jeske—40th Anniversary
9:00 MORNING MASS
† Ann and Fritz Armutat

THURSDAY, JULY 17—ST. SHARBEL MAKHLUF
Is 26:7-9, 12, 16-19 | Ps 102:13-14ab and 15, 16-18, 19-21 | Mt 11:28-30
7:00 MORNING MASS
† Kevin Cole
9:00 MORNING MASS
† Maria Socorro Dimaano

FRIDAY, JULY 18—ST. JAMES, APOSTLE
Is 38:1-6, 7-8, 21-22 | Is 38:10, 11, 12abcd, 16 | Mt 12:1-8
7:00 MORNING MASS
† Parish Remembrance Society
9:00 MORNING MASS
† Ann and Fritz Armutat

SATURDAY, JULY 19—ST. JOACHIM & ST. ANNE,  PARENTS OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
Mic 2:1-5 | Ps 10:1-2, 3-4, 7-8, 14 |Mt 12:14-21
9:00 MORNING MASS
† Emmet and Margaret Mehigan
1:00 WEDDING
Patricia Franco and Jorge Gomez
3:00 WEDDING
Katie Eichhorn and Mike Basil
5:00 EVENING MASS OF ANTICIPATION
For the People of the Parish

SATURDAY, JULY 20—  SIXTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Wis 12:13, 16-19 | Ps 86:5-6, 9-10, 15-16 | Rom 8:26-27 | Mt 13:24-43
8:00 † Austin Naughton
9:30 † Alice Cusack
11:00 † Jakob Ternes and the Kreis Family
12:30 Spanish Intentions

This Week at Queen of Angels

Monday, July 14—
-- Calendar Week Begins, 10 a.m., Upper Voss
-- Alcoholics Anonymous, 6:45 p.m., Upper Voss

Tuesday, July 15—
-- Overeaters Anonymous, 5:30 p.m., Upper Voss
-- Alcoholics Anonymous, 7:30 p.m., Lower Voss

Wednesday, July 16—
-- Citizenship Class, 6 p.m., Upper Voss
-- Circulo de Oración, 6 p.m., Sótano de la Iglesia
-- Overeaters Anonymous, 6:15 p.m., Upper Voss

Thursday, July 17—
-- Circulo de Oración, 6 p.m., Sótano de la Iglesia

Friday, July 18—
-- Eucharistic Adoration, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Church
-- Music Rehearsal, 10 a.m., Lower Church
-- Wedding Rehearsal, 6 p.m., Church
-- Wedding Rehearsal, 7 p.m., Church
-- Estudio de la Biblia, 7 p.m., Cocina de la Iglesia
-- Bella Screening, 8 p.m., Lower Voss

Saturday, July 19—
-- Preparación para Bautismo, 10 a.m., Centro Voss
-- Bella Screening, 11 a.m., Lower Voss
-- Wedding, 1 p.m., Church
-- Wedding, 3 p.m., Church

Sunday, July 20—
-- Practica del Coro, 11 a.m., Sótano de la Iglesia
-- Baptisms, 2 p.m., Church

“God Cares”

NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD

Have you ever felt that you were losing control of a task in which you were involved? Or that  things were not going so smoothly at work or in the family? As we move through life from day to day, we really like things to go smoothly, the way we planned.

You know, perhaps better than I that the “control buttons” don’t always operate the way we set them. Maybe it is because we forget that God is still in charge and that as God’s children and stewards, we need to let God into the picture of daily life.

There is a strong message in today’s readings, especially in the psalm, that God is all caring and truly faithful in watching over us.  The psalmist says so well that “The Lord is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness.” Jesus knew and believed this firmly. In the gospel he speaks about his relationship with the Father, describing God as one who is tender and loving, and who shared with Jesus all wisdom and goodness.

That is why Jesus could say, “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, I will give you rest.” What a great invitation! Jesus desires to reveal himself to us, to always help us, to show us the way, if we are but ready to let go of the controls we exercise in life.

If we take a look at how people accepted or rejected Jesus and his teachings, we see that those who wielded the power in his day had no time to accept what Jesus taught. It went contrary to the strong hold they had on their own way of doing things. For them, the important criteria were the law and how the minutiae were observed.  The powerful were too concerned about recognition or increasing a noteworthy reputation and being in control. It becomes very clear that this is not where Jesus was coming from. Consequently, tensions existed between those who were on the upper rung of the ladder and Jesus.

When Jesus invited those who had a lot of cares and worries, he was concerned about the “little ones,” as he put it.  People who were not so sophisticated and had less of this world’s goods fit into that category. The “little ones,” those as open as a child, who were in touch with the truth, were and are the favored of God. When we find ourselves with this disposition, we are ready to receive the goodness of God who desires more than anything to pour his presence into our lives.

I am sure each of us can admit that there have been times when we exercised undue control in situations, forgetting that God was waiting for us to turn to God for help. In our efforts to do things our way, we become frustrated and exhausted.

Control can do that to us when we don’t know how to balance responsibilities and tasks. Other people may be ready to assist us but we’d rather do it “our way.” It takes a lot of humility to let go and rely on God and others.

Jesus’ tenderness and care came through in these words when he said, “Learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart and you will find rest for yourselves.” It is as though Jesus is emphasizing the words of the psalmist. The psalm response to the first reading says so clearly how God cares. I invite you to dwell on these words whenever life gets heavy, when cares mount and it seems as though things are never going right and getting out of control.

The following verses of the psalm speak to me clearly in describing our God who cares. “God is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness. The Lord is good to all and compassionate toward all his works. The Lord is faithful in all his words and holy in all his works. The Lord lifts up all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down.”

In the words of today’s gospel, “learn from me....” We also are called to be like our God who is good and kind. We are invited to extend mercy, kindness, compassion and graciousness to our families, our neighbors, our parish community and co-workers.

Let these be the characteristics that mark our lives so that by our example we will be known as other Christs.

Father Jim Kaczorowski

CON DIOS NADA ES IMPOSIBLE: “A Dios le importa”

¿Alguna vez te has sentido como si estuvieras perdiendo control de una tarea en la que estas involucrado?  ¿O que las cosas no están yendo tan bien en el trabajo o con la familia?  Al irnos moviendo por la vida día con día de verdad quisiéramos que las cosas sucedieran sin tropiezos, de la manera que las hemos planeado. Ustedes saben quizá mejor que yo que los “botones de control” no siempre operan de la manera que los programamos.  Quizá esto es porque nos olvidamos de que Dios esta todavía a cargo y que como hijos de Dios necesitamos dejar que Dios entre a nuestra vida diaria.

Hay un mensaje fuerte en las lecturas de hoy, especialmente en el salmo, que Dios es todo bondadoso y verdaderamente fiel en atendernos.  El salmista lo dice muy bien que “El Señor es clemente y compasivo, demora en enojarse y lleno de bondad.”  Jesús sabía y creía en esto firmemente.  En el evangelio el habla acerca de su relación con el Padre, describiendo a Dios como uno quien es tierno y amoroso y quien compartía con Jesús toda sabiduría y bondad.

Por eso Jesús podía decir, “Vengan a mi, todos ustedes quienes trabajan y están abrumados, yo les daré descanso.”  ¡Que gran invitación!  Jesús desea revelarse a nosotros, siempre ayudarnos, mostrarnos el camino, si estamos preparados para dejar ir los controles que ejercitamos en la vida.

Si miramos a la manera como la gente aceptaba o rechazaba a Jesús y sus enseñanzas, vemos que aquellos quienes ejercían el poder en su día no tenían tiempo de aceptar lo que Jesús enseñaba.  Era contrario al fuerte control que tenían en su propio modo de hacer las cosas.  Para ellos, los criterios importantes eran la ley y como se observaban las pequeñeces.  Los poderosos estaban muy preocupados con recibir reconocimiento o incrementar una reputación notable y estar en control.  Se vuelve muy claro que esto no era el propósito de Jesús. Consecuentemente, había tensiones entre aquellos que estaban en el poder y Jesús.

Cuando Jesús invitaba a aquellos quienes tenían muchas preocupaciones y cuidados, el se preocupaba de los “pequeños” como el los llamaba.  La gente que no eran tan sofisticados y que tenían menos bienes materiales caían en esa categoría.  Los “pequeños,” aquellos tan abiertos como un libro, quienes estaban en contacto con la realidad, eran y son los favorecidos por Dios.  Cuando nos encontramos con esta disposición, estamos preparados para recibir la bondad de Dios quien desea más que nada derramar su presencia en nuestras vidas.

Estoy seguro cada uno de nosotros puede admitir que ha habido ocasiones cuando hemos ejercido indebido control en algunas situaciones, olvidando que Dios estaba esperando que nosotros nos volviéramos a el en busca de ayuda.  En nuestros esfuerzos por hacer las cosas a nuestra manera, acabamos frustrados y exhaustos.

El control puede hacernos eso cuando no sabemos como balancear responsabilidades y tareas.  Otra gente puede estar lista para ayudarnos pero nosotros preferimos hacerlo a “nuestra manera.”  Se necesita mucha humildad para relajarse y confiar en Dios y en los demás. La ternura y cuidado de Jesús se mostró en estas palabras cuando el dijo, “aprendan de mi, que soy dócil y humilde de corazón y encontraran descanso para ustedes.”  Es como si Jesús estuviera enfatizando las palabras del salmista.  La respuesta del salmo a la primera lectura dice tan claramente como Dios se interesa.  Les invito a vivir con estas palabras cuando la vida se les vuelva pesada, cuando las preocupaciones se amontonen y pareciera como si las cosas nunca estarán bien y se están saliendo de su control. Los siguientes versos del salmo me hablan claramente al describir a nuestro Dios quien cuida de nosotros.

“Dios es clemente y compasivo, demora en enojarse y lleno de bondad Bueno es el Señor con todos y compasivo con todas sus obras El Señor dice siempre la verdad en todas sus palabras y es bondadoso en todas sus acciones El Señor da su mano a todos los que caen y ayuda a levantarse a todos los postrados.”

En las palabras del Evangelio de hoy, “aprendan de mi...” Nosotros también somos llamados a ser como nuestro Dios quien es bueno y amable.  Somos invitados a extender misericordia, amabilidad, compasión y afabilidad a nuestras familias, nuestros vecinos, nuestra comunidad parroquial y nuestros compañeros de trabajo. Que estas sean las características que marcan nuestras vidas para que por nuestro ejemplo seamos conocidos como otros Cristos.

Padre Jim Kaczorowski

ENCONTRARÁS DESCANSO

La promesa de Jesús es una buena noticia sin lugar a dudas. Dios escondió el conocimiento del reino de Dios a los entendidos y sabios, aquellos que dicen que los pobres son responsables de su propia situación y que no se puede hacer nada por ellos. Jesús contradice esa sabiduría humana al proclamar que Dios obra de manera diferente. Somos pobres de espíritu si suprimimos el yugo de la ley y la esclavitud de la carne, al aliviar a los agobiados de su apabullante carga. Puede que nuestra economía tenga que sacrificar alguna ganancia, pero que no nos quepa duda que nuestras cargas también serán aliviadas y nuestro trabajo se hará más ligero. Lo que parece imposible para el sabio, lo conoce la gente sencilla. Cuando descansamos en Cristo, y nos deshacemos de la carga de nuestras preocupaciones por las “cosas,” podemos regocijarnos junto a todos los pueblos por la venida de nuestro manso y humilde Señor, quien le trae un descanso santo a este mundo ansioso y materialista.

YOU WILL FIND REST The promise of Jesus is good news indeed. God has hidden the knowledge of the reign of God from the learned and the wise, those who say that the poor are responsible for their own plight, and that nothing can be done for them. Jesus turns such human wisdom on its head, proclaiming instead that God works differently. We are poor in spirit if we follow Jesus in lifting the yoke of the law and slavery to the flesh, freeing the burdened of their crushing load. It may cost our economy some of its profits, but we can believe that our burdens will also be lifted and our work made light. What seems impossible to the learned is known to the humble. When we rest in Christ, laying down the burden of our preoccupation with “things,” we can rejoice with all people at the coming of our meek and humble Lord, who brings holy rest to an anxious and materialistic world. My yoke is easy, and my burden light Mi yugo es suave, y mi carga ligera

Announcements, July 6, 2008

CALLING ALL LEADERS OF PARISH ORGANIZATIONS! The Parish Calendar Process is Changing! Save the date for Calendar Week 2008-2009, which will take place Monday, July 14 through Saturday, July 19.  Calendar Week replaces the Calendar Meeting as the means by which the parish calendar for August 2008 through July 2009 will be put together.

All leaders and contact persons for parish organizations should have received information in the mail about the new parish calendar process.  The new process is based on the individual placement of event-request labels in a printed calendar. Groups are asked to send representatives to the parish office during the week of July 14-19.  If you know you will be unavailable all that week, please plan now for someone else to represent your group’s needs. Thank you for all that you do for our parish community!

COMMONS COMMUNITY SERVICE The Commons Community Service Team thanks everyone who participated in our end-of-the-school-year project. More than 50 backpacks were collected along with 30 pieces of luggage and 600 books in celebration of Foster Care Month. The continued generosity of parishioners is amazing.

If you would like to help plan future projects or just have good ideas to share, please join Commons Thursday, July 24 at 7:30 p.m. in the Voss Center. A broad representation of the parish is sought.

Questions? Call Diane Dugard at 773-588-3601 or tomanddi2000@yahoo.com. Thanks again for all you do!

PRAY THE ROSARY The Rosary is prayed every Saturday morning after the 9 a.m. Mass.  Come for Mass and stay for the Rosary. People are needed to lead the prayers of the Rosary.  Please call Joann Salas at 773-583-1371 or email jasnetworks@myibocs.com.

CHICAGO CATHOLIC SCRIPTURE SCHOOL AT ST. TERESA OF AVILA

Your word is a lamp unto my feet, a light for my path — Psalm 119:105

Chicago Catholic Scripture School of the Archdiocese of Chicago offers Catholic biblical scholarship, prayer and long-term faith formation to help adults bring the light of God’s Word into their lives.  Come and share the word when the next session begins in September. Register now for classes to be held 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays at St. Teresa of Avila.  Call 312-243-3700.

SCHOOL PARENTS NEEDED! Volunteers are needed for summer maintenance in our parish school.  If you are willing to work in the school from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 12, July 19, July 26, August 2 or August 9, you can work off 2008-2009 school volunteer hours.  Helping in this way can make a difference!  Call Bob Ross at 773-802-3456.

WHAT’S HAPPENING? Horner Park will host: July 11— 7 p.m. Paul Green’s School of Rock 8 p.m. The Northside Southpaws 9 p.m. Mike and Amy Finders Band Lincoln Square Chamber of Commerce will host in Giddings Square at 7 p.m.: July 10—Old Town School of Folk Music Festival Preview Northcenter Chamber of Commerce will host in Northcenter Town Square at 7 p.m.: July 16—James Conway and Friends Welles Park will host at 6:30 p.m.: July 8—Cameron McGill July 15—Horner Park Jazz Band Chicago Folk and Roots Festival from the Old Town School of Folk Music on July 12 and 13

DONATE YOUR OLD CAR TO HELP THOSE IN NEED The Society of St. Vincent DePaul is accepting donated vehicles through our “Vehicles for the Needy” program. Anyone with an unwanted vehicle in any condition is encouraged to make a tax-deductible donation. RVs, boats, golf carts and other vehicles are accepted. The Society will arrange for the vehicle, the vehicle’s title and keys to be picked up. Donors will receive a receipt for the amount the vehicle was sold for.

Vehicle donations can help provide emergency assistance with rent, utilities, transportation, food, clothing and furniture to help a neighbor in need get through a crisis. To donate a car, call 312-655-7183

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 20 for Harvest Jam.  Please join us for live music, children’s entertainment, raffles, apple pie and chili cook-offs which are planned for the day-long event.  A “grill off” has been added this year.  Call 773-769-4211 and leave a message.

ADOPTION INFORMATION  MEETING A Domestic Adoption Information Meeting will be sponsored by Catholic Charities at 6 p.m. July 10 at Catholic Charities, 1400 S. Austin, Cicero.  To register, please call Rebecca at 312-655-7086.

CAMP TOTUS TUUS Camp Totus Tuus is a series of one-day, high impact camps July 28 or 29 at St. Mary of the Lake Seminary in Mundelein for youth entering grades 6-12. Join others for a journey around Lake St. Mary. The day will include sports, food, discussions, prayer and Mass. Meet friends, seminarians, priests, religious sisters and Jesus in the sacraments, too. Contact John Whitlock at 312-867-2587.

ESPERANZA RISING AT GOODMAN Esperanza Rising, a play based on the book by Pam Munoz Ryan, is the story of a wealthy Mexican girl whose privileged existence is shattered when tragedy strikes, and she and her mother must flee to California. Forced to work in a migrant labor camp, Esperanza must learn to rise above her difficult circumstances and discover the value of her own self-worth. Set in the 1930s, Esperanza Rising is a poetic tale of a young girl’s triumph over adversity.

The play will be July 12 to August 10 at the Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn.  Tickets start at $15.  For tickets or more information, please contact 312-443-3800 or www.chicagochildrenstheatre.org. The play is suggested for those ages 8 and older.

GRACED MOMENTS AT MAYSLAKE Graced Moments, a women’s gathering with Dr. Jill Bates and Alice Dehm will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, July 28 at Mayslake Ministries in Westmont. Fee is $20.  Reflection, spiritual companioning, prayer and more are planned.  Call 630-323-1620 or visit www.mayslakeministries.org.

SUMMER TOILETRY COLLECTION St. Vincent DePaul Society (SVDP) is collecting individual-sized toiletries for the Franciscan Outreach Ministry, which runs one of the largest case management programs and shelter for the homeless in the city of Chicago.  Larger sized  clothing is also being collected for Girls and Boys Town in Back of the Yards, a transitional shelter for teens.  A collection basket will be in the back of church.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES GOLF OUTING Don’t miss Catholic Charities 11th Annual Golf Invitational at Cog Hill Golf and Country Club and Ruffled Feathers Golf Club in Lemont on Wednesday, July 23.  All proceeds benefit Catholic Charities Family Services.  For more information, contact Melissa Michaels at 312-948-6797

CHARLA PARA ADOPCIÓN El Programa de Adopción de Caridades Católicas de la Arquidiócesis de Chicago, esta patrocinando una charla informativa para familias interesadas en aprender más acerca de la adopción.  La charla para adopción doméstica será el 10 de julio a las 6 p.m., en Caridades Católicas, 1400 S. Austin, Cicero.  Se agradece hacer las reservaciones por anticipado.  Por favor llame a Carmen al teléfono 312-655-7070.

A HUMBLE KING Like a tonal center in music, the note to which we keep returning in today’s readings is humility. We wait in joyful expectation for the coming of our Lord as King. But what we are told to expect and rejoice over is a meek and humble king, riding on an ass. Not horses or chariots of the great and mighty, but a humble beast carries the Ruler whose dominion stretches “from the River to the ends of the earth” (Zechariah 9:10). This King comes to banish the tools of the warrior and bring peace. No wonder that a weary world rejoices and gives thanks to God!

UN REY HUMILDE Como el centro tonal en música, la nota que sigue retornando en las lecturas de hoy es la humildad. Esperamos con gozosa expectativa la venida de nuestro Señor como Rey. Pero se nos dice que esperemos y nos regocijemos en este manso y humilde rey, montado en un burrito. No en el caballo o el carruaje de los grandes y poderosos, sino en una humilde bestia que carga al Rey cuyo dominio se extiende “desde el gran río hasta los últimos rincones de la tierra” (Zacarías 9:10). Este Rey viene a desterrar las armas del guerrero y a traer la paz. ¡No es de extrañar que un mundo abatido se regocije y dé gracias a Dios!

BELLA MOVIE TO BE SHOWN Bella, the top-rated movie of 2007, is being shown at the Voss Center, 4412 N. Western Ave. There will be two screenings of this PG-13 film: 8 p.m. Friday, July 18 and 11 a.m. Saturday, July 19.

Bella is a love story that goes much deeper than romance. A story about a man who gave up his life to save the girl he loved, Bella is a heartwarming story that celebrates life, love, family and relationships. Bella is inspired by a true story that shows how one day in New York City changed three people’s lives forever.

Winner of the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival, Best Picture and Best Actor at the 2008 Movie Guide Awards and the prestigious Legacy Award from the Smithsonian Institute Latino Center, Bella is a critical triumph.

Tickets are $5 at the door or may be purchased in advance at www.northsiderespectlife.com. Advance purchases include free popcorn. The event is sponsored by the Northside Respect Life Community who wants you to know that, as the movie proclaims, “True love goes beyond romance.”

THEOLOGY IS “ON TAP” AT ST. BEN’S THIS SUMMER The weekly Theology on Tap speaker series presented by RCYA begins July 16 and continues Wednesdays through Aug. 6 in Heidenreich Hall at St. Benedict. All speakers begin at 7:30 p.m.  This event will appeal to anyone who likes provocative discussion,  appealing topics, great speakers and good fellowship. • July 16— Just Be It: Discerning Your Gifts, Mr. Douglas Scott • July 23 — How the Gospels Were Written, Fr. William J. O’Shea • July 30 — Christ With Me, Christ Before Me, Christ Behind Me: Inviting Christ into Every Aspect of Your Life, Sr. Theresa Sullivan • August 6 — How to Win the Love of Your Life: Intimacy, Sexuality and Relationships, Mr. and Mrs. Brian Hengesbaugh and Mary-Louise Kurey For more information, call Craig at 773-653-8834 or email rcya_chicago@yahoo.com. Ravenswood Catholic Young Adults (RCYA) is a group of Catholic adults who provide service, spiritual and social outreach to build God’s kingdom within our hearts and our community.  Please visit the RCYA website at www.rcyachicago.org for  a full list of upcoming RCYA events.