Queen of Angels Catholic Parish Chicago

Families Serving Families

A community dinner on Thanksgiving Day at St. Benedict Parish, PB&J sandwich-making party on November 30 for St. Teresa Loaves and Fishes program, and Scholastic pajama drive ending December 1 offer opportunities for parishioners of all ages to serve others through family-friendly service activities this holiday season.

"Care and Compassion"

“Cuidado y Compasión”
CONSTRUYENDO EN 100 AÑOS DE COMPARTIR Y CUIDAR
Como sucede con frecuencia, la festividad de Cristo Rey ocurre el domingo antes del Día de Acción de Gracias, como es el caso este año. Viendo las lecturas de las escrituras para la festividad, especialmente el Evangelio, veo que apropiados son los pasajes para esta temporada del año.

Tenemos enfrente la escena del ultimo juicio, la cual probablemente no está muy arriba en la lista de las cosas que más nos preocupan al empezar cada nuevo día. Pero viene a ser como el viejo dicho que he escuchado una y otra vez: “En verdad les digo que cuando lo hicieron con alguno de estos, mis hermanos mas pequeños, lo hicieron conmigo.” Para mi, este pasaje de las escrituras puede ser resumido en dos palabras - cuidado y compasión.

Service Opportunities for Even Our Littlest Disciples

Help your family make the most of the Halloween sugar-rush by putting energy into serving others.  Our Commons Community Service Team presents two opportunties this week for even small children to help others through a post-Halloween candy drive for the REST shelter and a PB & J sandwich-making party for the Loaves & Fishes soup kitchen.

Fall Events for the Homeless and All Hallows

On Saturday, October 29 Queen of Angels will host two events: an item drive and family service project to help the homeless and an organ concert for All Hallows.

Announcements, Week of October 23, 2011

SSVD SAYS ‘THANK YOU’ The Society of St. Vincent dePaul is grateful for the overwhelming response to the Summer Toiletries Collection. Nineteen grocery bags of soaps, shampoos and other toiletries from hotels across the country were delivered to Franciscan Outreach to renew and refresh the people who find refuge there. Larger size toiletries were sent to Boys Town of Chicago which serves children and teens who may be temporarily unable to stay with their families. Thank you for thinking of those in need when you travel on business or vacation!

GREEN TEAM PRODUCE SALES As the farmer’s markets begin to close, how about considering organic produce from the Queen of Angels Green Team? The produce is delivered every week for pick up at school. The pickup time is Thursday afternoon, after full day school dismissal. Twenty percent of the proceeds from sales are donated back to school, and the produce is wonderful. All the products are organic, and some are local. Each box contains 75% staple items, 15% seasonal and 10% special or local. The boxes are either 10 or 20 pounds. You can order fruit, veggies or combo boxes. The program will run from October 27 through December 15 for a total of seven weeks delivery. Contact Erin Kaukialo at Kaukialo@aol.com or 773-478-7020 to order. All orders must be in by Tuesday, October 24. Checks should be made to Queen of Angels School for the full seven-week order amount.

HOLIDAY ARTS AND CRAFT FAIR IS NOVEMBER 12 The Holiday Arts and Craft Fair is a fundraiser and fun-raiser that kicks off the holiday season at Queen of Angels. Families are encouraged to join us for Breakfast with Santa and visit the North Pole to win fabulous prizes. Parents can shop for unique items from over 30 selected artists and crafters. As every classroom participates by making individual crafts to sell at the fair, parents can purchase their child’s handmade item at the school holiday table for a special price. -- Even Santa needs help! Do you like to cook or just be in the kitchen? We are looking for one or two people to supervise the kitchen on the day of the event. -- Calling all elves! Do you like to distribute gifts to eager children? We are also looking for one or two people to lead Santa’s North Pole. You can help, have fun and earn school service commitment hours all at the same time. What could be more fun than that? If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact Melanee Schoendorff at funkymonkey007@clear.net or 773-506-2101.

WANT TO HELP GIRL SCOUTS? If you are interested in volunteering with the Girl Scout program at Queen of Angels, we are in need of assistant leaders and helpers especially for Daisies, Brownies and older Girl Scouts. If you have a skill you would like to share, you are welcome to teach us. Call Ann at 773-509-0350.

HOSTS NEEDED The Parish Social following the 9:30 a.m. Mass needs people willing to help host these gatherings. Would you care for some coffee, some juice or a donut? If you attend the Parish Social on Sundays, you know you’re at the right place. Gather outside or in the Lower Church and engage in conversation while having a light snack. It’s all there for you to enjoy following the 9:30 a.m. Mass each Sunday. Are you able to bring baked goods or fruit on any given Sunday? If so, please call the Parish CeToday nter and leave your name and phone number. Beverages will be provided. In order to make the good times continue, please lend a hand. Contact Walter Rucker at walt501@juno.com or call the Parish Center at 773-539-7510.

CELEBRATE THE HOPE THAT SAVES is World Mission Sunday. We are called to this Eucharistic celebration—along with Catholics in every parish, chapel and church throughout the world—to fulfill the call we first heard at Baptism, the call to be missionaries, to share our faith. On World Mission Sunday, we are invited to “celebrate the hope that saves” through prayer and participation in the Eucharist, and by giving generously to the collection today for the Society of the Propagation of the Faith. Let us pray especially at this Mass for all who long to hear the hope-filled, saving message of Jesus, and for the priests, religious and lay catechists in mission countries worldwide who offer them that “Good News.” DOMINGO MUNDIAL DE LAS MISIONES Estamos llamados a participar en esta celebración Eucarística, junto con católicos en cada parroquia, capilla e iglesia en todo el mundo, para comprometernos de nuevo a la llamada que escuchamos en el Bautismo de compartir nuestra fe, a ser misioneros. En el Domingo Mundial de las Misiones, estamos invitados “a celebrar la esperanza que salva” a través de nuestras oraciones, participación en la Eucaristía y donativos generosos en la colecta dominical de hoy, a beneficio de la Sociedad para la Propagación de la Fe. Oremos, sobre todo en esta misa por todos aquellos que desean escuchar el mensaje lleno de esperanza, el mensaje del Jesucristo el Salvador, y por sacerdotes, religiosas y catequistas laicos en países de misión quienes les ofrecen a todos la “Buena Nueva.”

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR SOUGHT Queen of Angels Elementary School seeks a part-time Director of Development. Primary responsibilities include Annual Fund solicitation, alumni coordination, overseeing grant writing activities, and coordinating staff and volunteer development efforts. The ideal candidate will possess strong organizational skills, show demonstrated success in nonprofit development, and a passion for Catholic elementary education. Further details can be found at www.queenofangelschicago.org/images/upload/DirectorofDevelopment.pdf. Please submit resumes and cover letters to development@queenofangelschicago.org or mail to: Development Search Committee, Queen of Angels Catholic School, 4520 N. Western Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60625.

HELP THE LYMAN FUND Your donation to the Lyman Scholarship Fund goes a long way in continuing the mission of our parish and our school: no child is denied a Catholic education because of a cash shortfall in the family. A growing number of families need assistance from the Lyman Fund. Please help. Use the green envelope provided or simply write “Lyman Fund” on an envelope. Your donation is always welcome.

SEE FAITH COME ALIVE ON TV In October and early November 2011, WTTW Channel 11 will present Catholicism, a groundbreaking new documentary series for public TV. Join Fr. Robert Barron, theologian, author and speaker, as he illuminates what Catholics believe and why. Called “simply the most vivid catechism ever created; a high-def, illustrated manuscript for the 21st century and the best-ever film about the Catholic faith,” the next part of the series will air at 8 p.m. this Thursday, October 27 and encore at 4 p.m. Sunday, October 30. Visit www.CatholicismSeries.com for more information.

OCTOBER: MONTH OF THE ROSARY Looking to take some time for prayer in your Saturdays? Join us to pray the Rosary after each 9 a.m. Saturday Mass. To lead prayers, please call Joann at 773-583-1371.

A REFLECTION FROM SSVD In this Sunday’s Gospel we find the truth that loving God isn’t merely a matter of fervor in our hearts, but that it must be expressed in doing good for the sake of others. As you place your gift in the Society of St. Vincent dePaul Poor Box, please say a special prayer for the poor who have no one to pray for them.

BEAT 1911 SET TO MEET Citizens residing between Lawrence and Montrose and Damen and the Chicago River are invited to attend the next Beat 1911 Meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, October 25 on the sixth floor at Kindred Hospital, 2544 W. Montrose. Meetings are an opportunity to express neighborhood safety concerns. A free raffle of a crime prevention device will be held and light refreshments will be served. Call the 19th District Community Policing Office at 312-744-5574.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN THE HOME The mission of St. Raymond’s Domestic Violence Outreach is to offer tangible support—both spiritual and emotional—to victims of domestic violence by educating our community and providing individual and group counseling. When talk is made of domestic violence, just who and what is being discussed?
“I am a married man with four great children. My story, too, is very hard to tell. My wife and I had a picture-book wedding—we were so in love. The babies started coming pretty fast. I was working very hard to keep up with the expenses and my wife was getting a little bogged down with all the childcare and laundry. But she is a good mother.
“After baby number three she said she’d had it. But with the fourth baby she had a lot of problems and he was born by C-section. The recovery was hard, especially since no family members could come to help out. I took as much time off work as I dared, but it wasn’t enough. She began getting more and more crabby; seems like she hated the children and me.
“Finally, she began sniping at me all the time. Before I knew it, she started throwing things at me — not little things, either. I know this sounds like a cartoon of the beleaguered husband and his shrewish wife, but she means business. She has hurt me badly, but I never seek medical help because I am so ashamed. Imagine, a husband that lets his wife abuse him.”
MYTH: Men do not get abused by women.
FACT: Women can be violent in relationships, too. Approximately eight percent of men experience domestic violence in their lifetimes. You are not alone!
To schedule an appointment with St. Raymond’s domestic violence counselor, call the direct line at 847-253-5834 or call the Parish Ministry Center at 847-253-8600. The strictest confidence will be maintained. In an emergency, dial 911 or call the National Domestic Violence 24-Hour Hotline at 800-799-7233.

EVER THOUGHT ABOUT BEING A PRIEST, RELIGIOUS OR DEACON? Today Jesus reminds us of the two greatest commandments, to love God with all our hearts, soul and mind and to love our neighbors as ourselves. What greater way to show our love than in priestly or religious life? For more information about priesthood, contact Father Brian Welter at bwelter@archchicago.org or at 312-534-8298. Check out www.ChicagoPriest.com. For information on religious life, contact Sr. Elyse Ramirez, OP at 312-534-5240 or eramirez@archchicago.org and for the permanent Diaconate program, contact Deacon Bob Puhala at bpuhala@usml.edu or 847-837-4562.

¿ALGUNA VEZ HAS PENSADO SER SACERDOTE? Hoy Jesús nos recuerda los dos mandamientos más importantes: Amar a Dios con todo nuestro corazón, alma y mente, y amar a nuestro prójimo como a nosotros mismos. Que modo más grande de manifestar nuestro amor que a través de la vida sacerdotal o religiosa? Para información acerca del sacerdocio, contacte al Padre Brian Welter al bwelter@archchicago.org o al 312-534-8298. Para información acerca de la vida religiosa, contacte a la Hermana Elyse Ramirez, OP al 312-534-5240 o al eramirez@archchicago.org, y para el programa del Diaconado Permanente, contacte al Diácono Bob Puhala al bpuhala@usml.edu o al 847-837-4562.

“BEING AND BRINGING CHRIST” The St. Francis Xavier Parish Ministry of Care and Bereavement Ministry will present the distinguished American Catholic author Paul Wilkes to discuss “Being and Bringing Christ to the Vulnerable, the Sick and the Dying” from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, November 8 in the Xavier Room, 524 Ninth St., Wilmette. Wilkes is the author of Holding God in My Hands. This presentation has been generously subsidized by the Vivyenne Morin Fund of St. Francis Xavier Parish. Refreshments will be served following the presentation.

PEOPLE IN PARTNERSHIP A workshop for married couples, life partners, siblings, close friends, business colleagues, or a parent with an adult child will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, October 28 and from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at St. Scholastica Academy, 7416 N. Ridge. The program includes an introduction to the dynamics of the nine Enneagram spaces. There will be opportunity for conversation with the person you come with, focusing on communicating self and listening to the other based on information from the presentations. Advance registration only. Fee for two people is $80. For more information and registration, call 773-764-5715, ext. 363.

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
October 23 — World Mission Sunday
November 1 — All Saints’ Day
November 2 — All Souls’ Day

Announcements, Week of September 25, 2011

IT’S NOT TOO LATE TO REGISTER FOR CHILDREN’S RELIGIOUS ED CLASSES Children not attending a Catholic school may be registered for Sunday Morning Religious Education Classes (Kindergarten through Level 7) and Confirmation Preparation (eighth grade through high school). These classes have already begun for the 2011-2012 school year. Classes are structured to help children learn and grow in their faith during each successive year.
Preparation is included for the sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation, but a well-rounded religious education includes much more. Help your children develop the gifts of faith that you and their godparents gave them at Baptism.
Children are invited to begin Religious Education when they enter kindergarten or first grade. For students new to the program or transferring from another church or school, we will work with each family to place them in the appropriate program and class. Register at the parish office or by calling the Religious Education office at 773-769-4211.

A REFLECTION FROM SSVD On September 27, the Church celebrates the feast of St. Vincent dePaul, who knew that “God had sent him to bring good news to the poor.” Together with your gifts, the members of the Society of St. Vincent dePaul continue his work and mission in our parish. This month, through your gifts, the Society of St. Vincent DePaul was able to “bring good news to the poor,” by assisting nine families, providing assistance with groceries, public transportation, referrals for social services and rent bills. Thank you!

PET BLESSING OCTOBER 4 Join us at 8:15 a.m. Tuesday, October 4 in the Courtyard for the Annual Pet Blessing. All pets must be leashed, caged or contained. We will be collecting donations for “found,” a local, non-profit, no kill, rescue and re-homing center. Bring donations to the school or church by October 7. Needed are food (Wellness or Science Diet for dogs, Friskies or Science Diet for cats), leashes, collars, bowls, treats, litter boxes and liners, 30-gallon garbage bags, rubber cleaning gloves, hand soap, laundry detergent, paper towels, clean towels and blankets. The event is sponsored by Commons Community Service Group.

SSVD BOX RELOCATED Due to problems with the St. Vincent dePaul donation box, it was removed from the Queen of Angels parking lot in August. The box has been relocated to the parking lot at St. Matthias Parish, 4934 N. Claremont. Your donations of clothing, shoes and small household items help the Society of St. Vincent dePaul to meet the needs of the poor in our community.

CLASS OF ‘61 SCHEDULES REUNION The Class of 1961 will gather for a 50th class reunion on October 22, 2011. For more information, contact Tim Rose at 312-953-8004.

THOUGHTS FROM RESPECT LIFE... “As a gift from God, every human life is sacred from conception to natural death. The life and dignity of every person must be respected and protected at every stage of and in every condition. The right to life is the first and most fundamental principle of human rights that leads Catholics to actively work for a world of greater respect for human life and greater commitment to justice and peace.” —U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

SCOUTER REUNION IS OCTOBER 15 Come one, come all to our annual Scouter Reunion! Invited are all former and current Cub Scout, Boy Scout and Girl Scout leaders, parents and members. The Scouter Reunion and Potluck Dinner will be at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, October 15 at Luther Memorial Church in the gymnasium, 2500 W. Wilson. Please mark your calendar to save the date, and bring a dish to share. On the agenda, in addition to the food, are ceremonies, songs, skits, remembering our deceased members, crafts demonstrations, sharing of memories and just good old-fashioned camaraderie. Bring something for “Show and Tell.” It will beat anything that’s on TV that evening! Program suggestions are welcome. Uniforms in order. Show off all your medals and patches! RSVP to Dorothy Witschonke at 773-588-3637 or Maria Bappert at 773-728-8127 and let us know what dish plan to bring. Thank you, and hope to hear from you!

SUPPORT THE CALL TO PRIESTHOOD
-- How many times in our lives has a priest brought healing to you and your families?
-- How many times has a priest celebrated the liturgy on Sunday, throughout the week and at special parish and family celebrations, bringing Christ to you through the Eucharist?
-- How many times has a priest stood with you in joy at the birth of a child, at your bedside in the hospital, or in sorrow at the death of a loved one?
Let us pray for vocations to the priesthood; that we may have priests whose lives are directed by the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the service of God’s people. Thank you for your ongoing prayers and financial support for this weekend’s collection for the Seminary System of the Archdiocese of Chicago.

QUE TENGAMOS SACERDOTES
-- ¿Cuántas veces un sacerdote trajo alivio a nuestras vidas y a las de nuestros familiares?
-- ¿Cuántas veces ha celebrado un sacerdote la liturgia del domingo, las de toda la semana y aquellas que con motivo de una celebración especial de la parroquia o de nuestra familia, celebra trayéndonos a Cristo a través de la Eucaristía?
-- Cuántas veces ha estado un sacerdote a nuestro lado en la alegría que de el nacimiento de un hijo; al lado de nuestra cama en el hospital o ante el dolor que provoca la muerte de un ser querido?
Oremos por las vocaciones para el sacerdocio; porque tengamos sacerdotes cuyas vidas estén dirigidas por la Palabra de Jesucristo en el servicio del pueblo de Dios. Gracias por sus continuas plegarias y por su apoyo financiero a la colecta esta semana para el Sistema de Seminarios de la Arquidiócesis de Chicago.

STATEMENT OF FRANCIS CARDINAL GEORGE IN SUPPORT OF THE DREAM ACT “Brothers and sisters: If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing... humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for your own interests, but also for those of others.” (Phil 2:1-4) One of the most precious gifts God gives us is our young people. They encourage us with their passion to learn and their desire to create a better world. In this year that the Archdiocese especially dedicates to our youth and young adults, I am asking that the Catholic community reach out in a special way to nurture the faith and intellectual and moral development of our youth. One way I encourage you to do this at this time is through your active support of immigrant youth who have been brought to this country while very young children, been educated in our grade schools and high schools, yet because of their undocumented status are not able to pursue higher education and currently have no hope of being able to become citizens and to share their gifts in a country where they have grown up, a country which they have grown to love and cherish. Many live in fear each day that they may be deported. Only recently has the current administration stepped up to give some reassurance to these young people which may allay some of those fears. We commend this with the great hope that there will be significant progress on this issue in the near future. The Catholic Bishops of the United States, along with leaders of other faith traditions, are encouraging the passage of federal legislation called the DREAM Act which would give these students an opportunity to realize their dream of becoming full citizens and contributors to the social and economic fabric of this country. I encourage your prayers and support for our youth and their families, and for our legislators; also I ask you as a member of the Catholic community to support and promote the passage of the DREAM Act and the eventual goal of the passage of compassionate comprehensive immigration reform legislation. DECLARACIÓN DEL CARDENAL FRANCIS GEORGE EN APOYO A LA LEY “DREAM” “Hermanos y hermanas:¿Puedo pedirles algo en nombre de Cristo, hablarles del amor? ¿Han recibido el Espíritu y son capaces de compasión y ternura? Entonces denme esta alegría: pónganse de acuerdo, estén unidos en el amor, con una misma alma y un mismo proyecto...Que cada uno tenga la humildad de creer que los otros son mejores que él mismo. No busque nadie sus propios intereses, sino más bien preocúpese cada uno por los demás.” (Flp 2,1-4) Uno de los dones más preciosos que Dios nos ha dado es el de nuestros jóvenes, pues ellos nos animan con su pasión por aprender y con su deseo de crear un mundo mejor. En este año que la Arquidiócesis está dedicando especialmente a nuestros adolescentes y adultos jóvenes, estoy pidiendo a la comunidad católica que extienda su mano de una manera especial con el fin de alimentar la fe y el desarrollo intelectual y moral de nuestra juventud. Una manera en que les invito a hacer esto es a través de su apoyo activo a los jóvenes inmigrantes que fueron traídos a este país cuando eran niños muy pequeños, que han sido educados en nuestras escuelas primarias y secundarias y que, debido a su condición de indocumentados, no pueden cursar estudios superiores y quienes en la actualidad no tienen ninguna esperanza de convertirse en ciudadanos y de compartir sus dones con el país en el que han crecido, un país al que han llegado a amar y valorar. Muchos de ellos viven a diario el miedo de ser deportados. Apenas hace poco el gobierno actual se decidió a actuar para dar cierta tranquilidad a estos jóvenes y disipar algunos de sus temores. Apoyamos esta actuación con la gran esperanza de que habrá un progreso significativo en esta cuestión en el futuro cercano. Los Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos, en coalición con líderes de otras tradiciones religiosas, estamos alentando a los legisladores a que aprueben la ley federal conocida como “Ley DREAM” (Ley para el desarrollo, alivio y educación de menores extranjeros, por sus siglas en inglés), la cual daría a estos estudiantes la oportunidad de hacer realidad su sueño de convertirse en ciudadanos de pleno derecho y colaboradores de la estructura social y económica de este país. Les invito a que apoyen y hagan oraciones por nuestros jóvenes y sus familias, y por nuestros legisladores; también les pido, como miembro de la comunidad católica, que apoyen y promuevan la aprobación de la Ley DREAM y el objetivo final de aprobar una legislación de reforma integral compasiva a la ley de inmigración.

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
September 25 — Seminaries
October 2 — Lyman Scholarship Fund (with regular collection)
October 16 — Sharing: Maternity BVM (with regular collection)
October 23 — World Mission Sunday / Propagation of the Faith
November 1 — All Saints’ Day
November 2 — All Souls’ Day

Volunteers Are Needed, And That Means YOU!

Several ministries of Queen of Angels are currently seeking volunteers. If you are new to the parish, or have been here for a while and are wondering how to get more involved, volunteering at Queen of Angels is a great way to meet new people and live out your Catholic faith. Help is especially needed in our SPRED ministry to persons with disabilities, Girl Scout program, Commons Community Service Team and Harvest Jam Festival.

Announcements, Week of August 28, 2011

"Take up your cross and follow me"

INTERESTED IN THE CATHOLIC FAITH? WHY NOT CHECK OUT RCIA? The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is an opportunity to learn more about the Catholic faith. It is designed for those who have never been baptized or baptized with little or no affiliation or religious training in the Catholic faith. The program is designed with weekly sessions that start in late September and continue through to the Easter Vigil. The program is done in partnership with St. Matthias. The early sessions are informational meetings and no commitment is required. All sessions are from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesdays unless otherwise noted. To register or for information, please call 773-539-7510.

BAPTISMS/BAUTISMOS
Benjamin James Borucki, child of Kristen and Jason
Grant Thomas Borucki, child of Kristen and Jason
Isabella Lynn Escalera, child of Melinda and Humberto
James Ernest Mayo, child of Lowery and Joseph
Matteo Lucas Mermuys, child of Beronica and Jeffrey
Frank William Soloma, child of Sarah and Stephen

MEN’S CLUB GOLF OUTING PLANNED The annual Queen of Angels Men’s Club (QAMC) Golf Outing will be Saturday, October 1, 2011 at Indian Boundary Golf Course, 8600 W. Forest Preserve Ave. Sign in at 11 a.m., 18 Hole Shot Gun will start at noon. All people of the parish, their friends and family are invited to attend. Golf limited to 144 players. Voss Center doors open at 6:30 p.m. with dinner at 7:30 p.m. Provide names of golfers and give shirt sizes for QAMC t-shirts when you reserve your tickets at qamc@comcast.net. For information, contact Larry Brown at 773-509-1155; Tom Dugard at 773-588-3601; or Bill Lill at 773-539-1249.
Pre-registration required. Ask about limited bus service. Golf and dinner is $90; golf and dinner (youth under 18) is $85; golf only (all ages) is $75; dinner only is $28; and dinner only (youth under 18) is $23. Proceeds benefit the Nicholas J. Feller Scholarship Fund and other parish needs. Full payment is due no later than September 16.

* * * HELPING THOSE IN NEED * * *

FAMILY-FUN PB & J PARTY! The Commons Community Service Team is holding its first monthly PB & J Party of the year with the after-care students on Wednesday, August 31. You are welcome to join us in making PB&J sandwiches and assembling sack lunches for the homeless and elderly guests of St. Teresa’s Loaves and Fishes Program. We have jobs for toddlers through adults. Kids love pitching in while learning to help others. And what do we do with any leftover sandwiches? Yep, we eat them! This event is in the school cafeteria from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Please direct questions to Donna Czech at 771-271-0377 or donna_czech@yahoo.com; or contact Lisa Krappman at lisa@krappman.com or 773-442-8747. COLLECTION THROUGH LABOR DAY Needed are travel– and individual-sized toiletries for the Franciscan Outreach Ministry, which runs one of the largest case management programs and shelters for the homeless in Chicago. Larger-sized toiletries are also being collected for Girls and Boys Town, a transitional teen shelter in the Back-of-the-Yards neighborhood. A collection basket is in the Gathering Space at church; donations can also be brought to the Parish Center. A REFLECTION FROM SSVD... Today we hear Jesus say to us, “For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” The challenge is to let go so God can lead us. This month, through your gifts, the Society of St. Vincent dePaul enabled the poor to experience Jesus’ presence by assisting 11 families by providing furniture, special shoes and baby items, $1,050 for housing bills and referrals to needed services. With your help this month, we provided school supplies and backpacks to dozens of children at the start of the school year. ST. VINCENT DE PAUL BOX GONE For many years there has been a St. Vincent DePaul donation box in the parish parking lot. Due to recent problems, the box has been removed. An alternative way for parishioners to help meet the needs of the poor is being considered by the Queen of Angels Conference of the Society of St. Vincent dePaul. Please be respectful of this decision and do not leave anything in the parking lot. Until this situation is resolved, please take your donations elsewhere.

FIRST TARGET, NOW WHOLE FOODS! Whole Foods has joined the Shop With the Angels lineup. For a variety of retail gift cards, stop by the Shop With The Angels table before or after the 8 and 9:30 Masses on Sunday or call the Parish Center at 773-539-7510. Whole Foods cards are available in $25 and $100 denominations.

NICODEMUS MINISTRY When a parishioner dies, the priest celebrates the Mass of Christian Burial. The final Prayers of Commendation at the cemetery are led by a lay person. It is a sign that when a parishioner dies, other members of the parish -— and not just the priest —- pray. Volunteers are needed to minister to grieving families. Follow the kindness of Nicodemus who, with Joseph of Arimathea, buried Jesus.

GALA OF THE ARTS PLANNED The 10th Annual Gala of the Arts will begin at 6 p.m. Friday, September 9 in the Grand Ballroom of Navy Pier. The recent stars of Chicago’s Jersey Boys will perform. The evening features an art show and sale, featuring 16 artists. A portion of the proceeds raised at the Gala will support Catholic Charities’ Emergency Assistance Programs which provide food, shelter, clothing and short-term financial assistance. Reservations begin at $250. Contact Ashley Owen at 312-655-7912.

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
September 4 — Lyman Scholarship (with regular collection)
September 5 — Labor Day / Society of St. Vincent de Paul

Announcements, Week of June 5, 2011

"...you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses..." -- Acts of the Apostles 1:8

BAPTISMS / BAUTISMOS
Ayslin Romero Bautista, child of Guadalupe and Isaias
Clare Marie Deegan, child of Christy and David
Mariella Meghan Herman, child of Colleen and Matthew

ELECTION RESULTS ARE IN!
School Board: Charlie Biggam, Tanya Park, Mark Roeser and Tom Schoendorff have all been elected to next year’s School Board, following the recent election. We welcome the new board members at the same time we say thank you to retiring members Helen O’Brien Orr, Tim Irvine, Debbie Cruz and Ellen Meents-DeCaigny.
Athletic Board: John Giordano and Melanee Schoendorff won three-year terms on the Athletic Board. Bill Jeske and Michael Thomas won two-year terms and Beth Hickman and Jay Mitchell have joined the Athletic Board for one-year terms.
Commons: Pete Doyle will transition from Vice President to President for next year. Donna Czech is now Vice President. Bob Gorski will be the new Commons Secretary and Erin Kaukialo will continue in her role as Treasurer. Thanks to Charlie Biggam and Sue Roeser for their work over the past two years as President and Secretary, respectively.

A REFLECTION FROM THE SSVD Today as we celebrate the feast of the Ascension we are reminded that Christ’s saving work on earth continues through his disciples... and now through us. When we give to the poor, God indeed pours his love, peace and joy into our hearts, into our lives and into the hearts of those who are poor. Interested in making service to the poor part of your spiritual life? Join the members of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at our monthly meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 9 in the Upper Voss Center.

CLW ENDS FOR THE SEASON Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLW) will end for the season today, Sunday, June 5 during the 9:30 a.m. Mass. It will resume in the fall. If you are interested in becoming one of the adults who make this possible for our youngest parishioners, please contact Al Ferolie at 773-283-9428 or albertferolie@ferolielaw.com. Please continue to bring your children to church during the summer months. As we know, parents are the best example for children.

COFFEE, JUICE, DONUT? IT MUST BE SUNDAY! Would you care for some coffee, some juice or perhaps a donut? If you attend the Parish Social following the 9:30 a.m. Mass on Sundays, you’ve come to the right place. Are you able to bring baked goods or fruit on any given Sunday? If so, please call the Parish Center and leave your name and phone number. Queen of Angels is always ready for a social gathering so let’s keep the tradition going. Beverages will be provided on Sundays. To lend a hand to these post-Mass socials, contact parishioner Walter Rucker at walt501@juno.com or call the Parish Center at 773-539-7510.

CHILDREN’S RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Queen of Angels offers Religious Education (CCD) classes for children in Kindergarten through Eighth Grade not attending a Catholic school. We welcome school-age children seeking a closer connection with God and understanding of the Catholic faith. The program is designed for continuous faith formation from one year to the next, including preparation for First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation. Registration for the 2011-2012 school year is now open, and registration fees will increase on July 1. To register, e-mail parish@queenofangelschicago.org or call 773-769-4986 ext. 23.

NOT TOO LATE FOR JANE’S EGG BASKET If you picked up an egg from Jane’s Egg Basket, please return your donations to the Parish Center. If you have any larger, gently used items, please contact Patti Corbitt at 773-450-4978 to make arrangements for pick-up. Every item and every penny collected will go to help local needy moms, kids and families through the Women’s Center of Greater Chicagoland and the Teen ProGRESS teen parenting program of Ravenswood Evangelical Covenant Church. Thank you from the Respect Life Committee and the Society of St. Vincent dePaul.

PRAY THE ROSARY Looking to take some time for prayer in your Saturdays? Join us to pray the Rosary after each 9 a.m. Saturday Mass. To volunteer to lead, call Joann at 773-583-1371.

INTENCIONES DE MISAS Para pedir una intención especial para una misa en inglés o español, por favor visite el Centro Parroquial. La donación sugerida es de $10 por misa. Llame a la oficina al 773-539-3176.

NICODEMUS MINISTRY When a parishioner dies, the priest celebrates the Mass of Christian Burial. The final Prayers of Commendation at the cemetery are led by a lay person. Laity are urged to lead their brothers and sisters in prayer. It is a sign that when a parishioner dies, other members of the parish —- and not just the priest —- pray. Volunteers are needed to minister to grieving families. Follow the kindness of Nicodemus who, with Joseph of Arimathea, buried Jesus. Training provided. Call the parish office at 773-539-7510.

¡SHHHHH! Todos los aparatos electrónicos deberían estar apagados antes de entrar a la iglesia, nuestro espacio sagrado.

ESTACIONAMIENTO Por favor no bloquee la entrada o salida de un auto en el estacionamiento. Si todos los espacios están llenos, es necesario encontrar estacionamiento en la calle. ¡Gracias!

ONE DIME AT A TIME Each Box Tops coupon is worth a dime to Queen of Angels students. Last spring, our school earned more than $400 for our school library and classrooms through this program. Please clip Box Tops coupons from hundreds of products from Cheerios®, Betty Crocker®, Pillsbury®, Ziploc®, Kleenex®, Juicy Juice® and more. Drop coupons in boxes outside the school office or at the back of church. Contact Mrs. Allen at aallen@queenofangelschicago.org or e-mail gdiaz@queenofangelschicago.org for school librarian Mrs. Diaz.

ST. BEN’S GARAGE SALE St. Benedict Parish, 2215 W. Irving Park Road, will host a garage sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 18. Stop by and view the selection of gently used desks, chairs and other furniture for sale. Many items are $5. Paint will also be sold for $5 a gallon. Cash only. Sales benefit St. Ben’s.

BIG BARGAINS AT G.R.O. SALE The Greater Rockwell Organization (GRO) will hold its 32nd Annual Yard and Garage Sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 11 and 12. Dozens of GRO members participate in the event from Wilson to Lawrence and Western to the Chicago River. Fliers listing all sale locations will be available at key spots.

IS PRIESTHOOD FOR YOU? As we conclude this month of May, dedicated to Mary, let us ask our Heavenly Mother to pray with us for all those discerning a vocation to priesthood or religious life. For information about the priesthood, please visit www.ChicagoPriest or contact Father Brian Welter at 312-534-8298. For information about religious life contact Sister Elyse Ramirez, OP at eramirez@archchicago.org or at 312-534-5240.

ANIVERSARIO DE BODAS DE ORO La Misa de Aniversario de Bodas de Oro será el domingo, 28 de agosto 2011 a las 3 p.m. en St. John Brebeuf, 8307 N. Harlem, Niles. Las parejas que se casaron en 1961 y están interesados en asistir esta celebración deben hablar a su parroquia para registrase. Para más información acerca la Misa, visite al www.familyministries.org o llame al 312-534-8351.

GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY The Golden Wedding Anniversary Mass will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, August 28 at St. John Brebeuf, 8307 N. Harlem, Niles. Couples married in 1961 interested in attending this celebration must register through the parish office by calling 773-539-7510. Call the Family Ministries Office at 312-534-8351.

RAM SCRAMBLE GOLF OUTING Join Gordon Tech for a day of golf, contests, dinner and good times on June 7 for the 5th Annual GT Ram Scramble Golf Outing at White Pines Golf Club. Tickets are $135 per golfer and include 18 holes of golf, driving range time, golf cart, lunch, dinner (with open bar and awards). Day begins at 8 a.m. with registration followed by a 9 a.m. shotgun start. Visit www.gordontech.org or call Paula Ryan at 773-423-5040.

HELP FOR THE GRIEVING
-- St. Francis Xavier Parish, 524 Ninth Ave., Wilmette, is hosting “Humming in the Darkness,” a presentation for those walking through loss. Using poems and Gospel stories, the workshop will explore the possibility of humming in the darkness amid desperation. This presentation will offer encouragement to those struggling with life’s losses and to their loved ones. The event will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, June 14 in the Xavier Room. Reservations accepted but not required. Call 847-256-2273, ext. 0.
-- Are you widowed? Do you now someone who is? If you have been recently widowed and are still struggling with the loss, or if you have been widowed for some time and seem to be stuck in one spot, the "Joyful Again" program is designed to help you move on with your life while treasuring your past. This workshop retreat program will be July 9 and 10 at Holy Family Parish in Inverness and it is for men and woman of all ages who have been widowed and are trying to find hope and joy in their lives. For more info, visit www.joyfulagain.org or call 708-354-7211.

SUMMER CHARIS RETREATS
-- Be Still: A Silent Retreat, will be June 17 to 19 at Bellarmine Jesuit Retreat House in Barrington. Start your summer with a weekend away to enter the stillness and refocus. Renew your spirit and reflect in the presence of God at this quiet retreat from daily life. Meet with a spiritual director, discover new ways to pray, celebrate Mass, read, journal and rejuvenate. All in their 20s and 30s are welcome.
-- Too much going on? Pulled in a million directions? You’re not the only one. Join other young adults at Bellarmine Retreat House August 27 and 28 for a weekend Seekers’ Retreat. In the craziness of life, it doesn’t hurt to pause and take a look at the big picture. What’s important in my life? What am I looking for? Where does God fit in? The retreat is just $149 if you register by Monday, August 15!
Visit www.charisministries.org for info and registration.

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
June 5 — Lyman Scholarship Fund (with regular collection)
June 12 — Retirement Fund for Archdiocesan Priests / PRMAA
June 19 — Sharing: Maternity BVM (with regular collection)
June 26 — Peter’s Pence
July 3 — Lyman Scholarship Fund (with regular collection)

Announcements, Week of May 29, 2011

MEMORIAL DAY SCHEDULE There will be a 10 a.m. Mass on Memorial Day, Monday, May 30. All parish facilities will be closed that day and the church closes immediately after Mass. If there is a situation that constitutes a real emergency, please call 773-539-7510 and the answering service will take your information.

CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? Despite the rain, a merry band of Queen of Angels folks sorted, tagged, sold, provided refreshment and child care at last week’s sale as part of the Ravenswood Manor Garage Sale. Profits were designated for the Queen of Angels Green Team efforts and profitable it was! In one day, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a whopping $2,700 was collected for the cause. Thanks to all who donated, assisted in some way or stopped by to pick up a few things. Special thanks go to Eileen Rochford and Mike Beyer (as well as Declan and Jessie) for opening their home as both staging area and selling location.

SCHÖNEN DANK Many thanks to Msgr. Jim Kaczorowski for hosting last Saturday at the 5 p.m. Mass when Fr. Paul Reicher from St. John Berchmans presided at the first German-English Mass in Queen of Angels history! Linda Mueller and Rachel Hohner did the readings and intercessions. Kent Jager played both organ and piano, accompanying the Mixed Chorus of the Society of Danube Swabians of Chicago. Thanks to John Staller who assumed the role of leader during the Novena to the Mother of Perpetual Help. Christine Murphy, our Sacristan, joined the choir and also did much work behind the scenes. It was a wonderful event! As Msgr. Kaczorowski said, this bilingual Mass and German Novena reminded us that Queen of Angels was founded more than a hundred years ago by families from Germany and Ireland. Vielen herzlichen Dank! — Maria Bappert, Parishioner and Choir Director, Mixed Chorus of the Society of Danube Swabians

HELP US GO GREEN TO SAVE GREEN The Queen of Angels Green Team is working on developing a plan to reduce energy use and the associated cost at Queen of Angels School and, ultimately, our parish. We are meeting with prospective contractors at the school this Thursday, June 2 at 10 a.m. and are happy to have others join us or give input in advance of the meeting. If you are interested in helping with this effort or have suggestions to offer, please contact Ashley Craig at acraig@elpc.org. Thanks! — The Commons Green Team

COFFEE, JUICE, DONUT? IT MUST BE SUNDAY! Would you care for some coffee, some juice or perhaps a donut? If you attend the Parish Social following the 9:30 a.m. Mass on Sundays, you’ve come to the right place. Are you able to bring baked goods or fruit on any given Sunday? If so, please call the Parish Center and leave your name and phone number. Queen of Angels is always ready for a social gathering so let’s keep the tradition going. Beverages will be provided on Sundays. These current social events are the brainchild of parishioner Walter Rucker. To lend a hand to these post-Mass socials, contact him at walt501@juno.com or call the Parish Center at 773-539-7510.

CHILDREN’S RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Queen of Angels offers Religious Education (CCD) classes for children in Kindergarten through Eighth Grade not attending a Catholic school. We welcome school-age children seeking a closer connection with God and understanding of the Catholic faith. The program is designed for continuous faith formation from one year to the next, including preparation for First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation. Registration for the 2011-2012 school year is now open, and registration fees will increase on July 1. To register, e-mail parish@queenofangelschicago.org or call 773-769-4986 ext. 23.

INTENCIONES DE MISAS Para pedir una intención especial para una misa en inglés o español, por favor visite el Centro Parroquial. La donación sugerida es de $10 por misa. Llame a la oficina al 773-539-3176.

MEN’S CLUB THURSDAY HOOPS Men of the parish are invited to the weekly session of Men’s Club Hoops at 9 p.m. Thursdays in the Guild Hall Gym. Join a bunch of 20-, 30-, 40– and 50-year-olds run up and down the court and sometimes make a basket. Concessions and lively discussion follow the games. Donation is $10 plus an annual Men’s Club membership of $20. A liability waiver must be signed. Men’s Club also sponsors an “old-timers” game for folks over 35 (contact Wayne Steger for details, wsteger@depaul.edu). Men’s Club meets at 8 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month in the Voss Center. Join us for pizza and beer. There is a $5 donation per meeting. Other Men’s Club events include Family Gym Nights, an annual Golf Outing, a Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament and more. The Men’s Club supports high school scholarships and other parish and school needs.

NICODEMUS MINISTRY When a parishioner dies, the priest celebrates the Mass of Christian Burial. The final Prayers of Commendation at the cemetery are led by a lay person. Laity are urged to lead their brothers and sisters in prayer. It is a sign that when a parishioner dies, other members of the parish -- and not just the priest -- pray. Volunteers are needed to minister to grieving families. Follow the kindness of Nicodemus who, with Joseph of Arimathea, buried Jesus. Training provided. Call the parish office at 773-539-7510.

ST. BEN’S GARAGE SALE St. Benedict Parish, 2215 W. Irving Park Road, will host a garage sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 18. Stop by and view the selection of gently used desks, chairs and other furniture for sale. Many items are $5. Paint will also be sold for $5 a gallon. Cash only. Sales benefit St. Ben’s.

SPONSOR A SOLDIER IN NEED Mayslake Ministries is offering free weekend retreats for all military men and women suffering from the effects of Post Traumatic Spiritual Stress. For $200, sponsor a military member for this life-changing retreat. Retreats are led by Sr. Linda McLenahan, a chaplain and Vietnam veteran. Donations can be sent to Mayslake Ministries, 450 E. 22nd Street, Lombard, Illinois 60148, attention Dr. Mary Amore, Executive Director.

HOPE FOR THE GRIEVING Our faith in Jesus Christ is a beacon of hope that guides us in life’s most difficult moments. If you are grieving the death of your spouse, or know someone who is grieving this loss, know that a welcoming community of comfort and care is awaiting you at the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii. Join the group from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 4. Fee is $25. Reservations are required. Please call 312-421-3757.

RAM SCRAMBLE GOLF OUTING Join Gordon Tech for a day of golf, contests, dinner and good times on June 7 for the 5th Annual GT Ram Scramble Golf Outing at White Pines Golf Club. Tickets are $135 per golfer and include 18 holes of golf, driving range time, golf cart, lunch, dinner (with open bar and awards. Day begins at 8 a.m. with registration followed by a 9 a.m. Shotgun Start. visit www.gordontech.org or Call Paula Ryan at 773-423-5040.

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
May 30 — Memorial Day / St. Vincent de Paul
June 5 — Lyman Scholarship Fund (with regular collection)
June 12 — Priests Retirement Fund