St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church . Naperville IL . 630.355.8980 Second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Jan 16, 2011

*indicates part-time staff

Charles Haydon 369.2262 Nick Furibondo 898.5224 Richard Strassburger 499.5676

St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563 e-mail: mainoffice@stapostle.org 630 355-8980 (Main Office) Visit us on the internet at www.stapostle.org 630 305-6318 (Religious Education) 630 355-0521 (Facsimilie)

Parish Staff Rev. Joel Fortier – Pastor, jfortier@stapostle.org Rev. Rodolphe Arty, Associate Pastor, x 103, rarty@stapostle.org Rev. Bob Colaresi, O. Carm. – Weekend Associate Fr. Pat Brennan, Weekend Associate, pbrennan@theclareatwatertower.com Rev. Mr. William Worden, D. Min. – Deacon, x105 Rev. Mr. Chuck Lane – Deacon, x220, chucklane2@juno.com Rev. Mr. Jim Breen – Deacon, 630.357.4853, jimb4853@yahoo.com Rev. Mr. Larry Kearney – Deacon, x225, lrkearney@comcast.net Rev. Mr. Michael Barrett – Deacon , x220, meabarrett@att.net Liturgy Kate Cuddy – Director of Music and Liturgy, x112, kcuddy@stapostle.org Jessi Allured – Asst. Director of Music and Liturgy, x111, jallured@stapostle.org Lori Culberson – Liturgy Coordinator, x120, lculberson@stapostle.org Angie Tuttle – Liturgy Office Assistant, x110, atuttle@stapostle.org Theresa Sheliga* – Sacristan Coordinator, x116 Faith Formation Sandy Renehan, Principal at All Saints Catholic Academy 630.961.6125 Chari Rosales – Director of Adult Education & RCIA x138, crosales@stapostle.org Kevin Pranaitis – Director of High School Youth Ministry, x123, ym@stapostle.org Brett Adams – Coordinator of Middle School Faith Formation, x117, badams @stapostle.org Patti Dougherty – Director of Religious Education, x109, pdougherty@stapostle.org Nancy Cirmo – Religious Education Assistant, x118, ncirmo@stapostle.org Marge Coronado – Religious Education Assistant, x219, mcoronado@stapostle.org Anne Schultz – Adult Faith Formation Assistant, x113, aschultz@stapostle.org Lynne Vehlewald* – Librarian, x125, library@stapostle.org Outreach and Social Justice Michael Ryder – Director of Outreach & Social Justice, x121, mryder@stapostle.org Anne Schultz – OSJ Partner, x113, aschultz@stapostle.org Sally Meno* – OSJ Financial, x137, smeno@stapostle.org Pastoral Care Jan Olah – Director of Pastoral Care, x124 Felicia Lawlor*, M.S., R.N. – Faith Community Nurse, x104, flawlor@stapostle.org Rose Grumbine*, R.N., – Faith Community Nurse, x104, rgrumbine@stapostle.org Administration Janet Simmons – Finance/Business Officer, x106, jsimmons@stapostle.org Diane McQueen – Gen Office Administrative Asst, x101, dmcqueen@stapostle.org Kathy Ferguson – Gen Office Administrative Asst, x100, mainoffice@stapostle.org Marilyn DeMeo* – Database Coordinator (T/Th), x107, mdemeo@stapostle.org Pat Berkhout – Evening/Saturday Receptionist, x119, nitecrew@stapostle.org Angie Tuttle – Bulletin Editor, Graphic Design, x110, atuttle@stapostle.org Susan Francesconi* – Communications Coordinator, x108, sfrancesconi@stapostle.org Bob Hartmann Facility Manager, x133, facility@stapostle.org Pastoral Leadership Community John Ball 630.554.0687 Christine Berta 579.4294 Pam Foster 699.3044 Commission Facilitators Worship Kate Cuddy 355.8980 Parish Life Faith Formation Chris Baker 548.1733 Administration Charles Haydon 369.2262 Service Carol Healy 961.0942

Liturgy Schedule Daily (Monday — Friday) Communion Service — 6:30 a.m. Rosary — 8:10 a.m. Mass — 8:30 a.m. (Saturday) Communion Service — 8:30 a.m.

Weekend Saturday Vigil — 4:30 p.m. Sunday — 7:30, 9:00, 10:45 a.m., and 6:30 p.m.

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament every first Friday, 9:00 — 9:30 a.m.

Sacrament of Reconciliation Reconciliation is available Saturday, 3:30 to 4:15 p.m., or after the 4:30 p.m. Mass in the Reconciliation Room of the Chapel. Fr. Joel is available during the week by appointment. Communal Penance services are held occasionally throughout the year. Sick and Home Bound Call the Church Office to receive prayer/Eucharist from a priest, deacon or Minister of Care. Baptism Baptisms are usually celebrated 2-3 Sundays each month at a 12:30 p.m. service. On selected dates, Baptisms are celebrated at weekend Masses. Parents are required to attend an awareness and renewal evening prior to the Baptism. Call the Church Office a few months in advance to make arrangements. Matrimony A couple planning on being married at St. Thomas should contact the church six months in advance. One year is preferred. Either the bride or groom, or their parents, must be a registered parishioner for at least three months prior to calling to set a date. Religious Education Call the 305-6318 to register. RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) Any person wanting to learn more about the Catholic Faith, or to join our Catholic community should call the church at 355-8980. Counseling Service Call Samarian Interfaith 357-2456 or Jan Olah, Pastoral Care 355-8980 x 124. Sunday Nursery Nursery care is available for your child age one (walking) to four at the 9 & 10:45 a.m. Mass. For more information call the church office.

With the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord last week we formally ended the Christmas/Epiphany Season. Yet it’s interesting that we hear a reprise of the event from John the Baptist in today’s gospel. The significance of the Baptism of the Lord is worth taking a look at again. It has to do with the great dignity, favor, and Blessing Christ received that he passes on to us! The dignity and Blessing of God received by us from Christ empowers us with the Spirit of Jesus. It liberates us

and sets us free from all that is not of God. We are delivered from the kingdom of darkness and transposed and transformed into the Kingdom of God. We are alive and free in Christ! It is about our true identity, about our great dignity. We belong to Christ, we belong to God, we belong to the Kingdom of God, a kingdom of light, peace, and love. We do not belong to the kingdom of darkness. We are children of the light and so are to be light in the world.

We need to consciously claim and reclaim that dignity constantly in our lives. We are free and forgiven. We live in the freedom of the daughters and sons of God. That is who we are. Because we live in Christ, we can renounce all that is not of Christ in our lives. And we have the Blessing and the power of God to do that. We rely not on our own power but on the power of Christ living in us. Bringing liberation and freedom to others is an excit-ing thing, it is the mission of Christ we continue in the world. The reason Christ came was to bring us into the Kingdom of God. That is our mission and we assume it with great joy and dignity here at St. Thomas. It is our Baptismal right and responsibility as a part of the Body of Christ. We need to be clear about that in a world that would confuse us about our true identity and which would lead us down paths of darkness, confusion, and death. We deplore the death and violence in our world, we renounce it and choose Christ, we choose life. In the Christopher movement there is a saying, “I would rather light one candle than curse the darkness!” It is easy to curse the darkness, it is much more challenging and true to our task to light one candle, the candle and light we have each been given, the light of Christ! Let us be about that in the New Year. I join with you in that mission. In the Light of Christ with you,

Dear Friends,

Welcome Guests and Visitors!

We’re so glad you’re here and in-vite you to walk the path of faith with us. Our goal is to provide a spiritual home where all are wel-come, where the healing, reconcil-ing, liberating love of God flows through us to all people. We believe the church is the sacrament of God’s saving presence in the world.

Would you like to become a Parishioner? Join us in the gym for Welcome Sunday after the following Masses: Sunday, Jan 3-: 9:00 and 10:45am

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

January 16, 2011

I will make you a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the

ends of the earth. — Isaiah 49:6b

“God comes as light in the midst of darkness.”

Jan 16, 2011 — Page 4

Presider’s Schedule—Jan 22/23 Saturday 4:30 pm Fr. Joel Fortier Sunday 7:30 am Fr. Pat Brennan 9:00 am Fr. Pat Brennan 10:45 am Fr. Joel Fortier 6:30 pm Fr. Dof Arty

* Presider schedule is subject to change.

Worship Commission Second Sunday in Ordinary Time LAMB OF GOD — A lamb was a familiar image for Jewish people in Jesus’ day. It was part of the Jewish tradition that lambs be slaughtered for sacri-fice, as a way for the people to return to God after they had separated themselves through sinfulness. Of course, Jesus reminded his disciples of this sac-rifice at the Last Supper. His actions at that meal would forever bind his followers to the sacrifice he made for each of us. Jesus had become the new Passover Lamb. John the Baptist recognized Jesus as this sacri-fice. Upon his approach, John proclaimed Jesus the “Lamb of God.” Having already seen the Spirit come down on Jesus, John knew that was the sign by which God had promised to indicate the chosen One. While it would remain unclear exactly what it meant to be the Lamb of God until after the Passion and Resurrection, John knew that this was the most fitting title for the one who approached him on that day at the Jordan River. IN SERVICE OF THE LAMB — We will grow only in service to one another. We may each be in-dividuals feeling at times that we work alone, but in reality, as Paul explained to the Corinthians, we are united. We are united in God by the power of the Holy Spirit, through Jesus Christ, the Son of God. In our humanity, we may not be able to give as completely as Jesus did, but we strive nevertheless to carry one another in humble service. Through our obedience to God’s will, we proclaim to the world Jesus’ message of love for even the least by our words and actions as we lift up our brothers and sisters. As we find strength in the Gospel message and in the many exemplary lives of those who have gone before us, the service that we offer to others is truly that of Jesus himself, the Lamb of God. Today’s Readings: Isaiah 49:3, 5–6; Psalm 40:2, 4, 7–10; 1 Corinthians 1:1–3; John 1:29–34 Copyright © 2007, World Library Publications. All rights reserved.

Opportunities! Host Greeters Are you someone who takes pride in wel-coming guests to your home? Host Greeters are needed to help at the 4:30 Mass to wel-come guests and parishioners alike. Contact Lori Culberson with questions or if you are interested in helping! Eucharistic Minister Training There will be a training for New Eucharis-tic Ministers on Sunday, February 13, at 12:00 pm. Please let Lori Culberson know if you are interested and will be attending. Special Masses Healing Masses will be held January 29 and 30 at all Masses.

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Pray For Our Parish

Mass Intentions Monday, January 17, 2011 8:30 †Josephine Quattrochi, by Joseph Battisto †Jennie Battisto, by Vito Battisto Wednesday, January 19, 2011 8:30 †Felipe Rivera, by Marguerite Vine Thursday, January 20, 2011 8:30 †Catherine Kenny, by The Meno Family Saturday, January 22, 2011 4:30 †Felipe Rivera, by Marguerite Vine †George Orsini, by Carol & Robert Bundy Sunday, January 23, 2011 7:30 †Lete-Silassie Yohannes, by Mimi †Gebre-Mariam Hadera, by Mimi 9:00 †Gerry Sheridan, by Ted & Joan McKeown †Helen Ziolkowski, by The Jindrich Family 10:45 For the People of St. Thomas 6:30 †Jacob Storey, by Mrs. Hunt’s 5th Grade RE Class †Mary Susan Marshall Frame, by John Loftus

for the sick… Gloria Schilling, mother of Mary Bachar Andrew Hanyzeski, husband of Elaine Ann Zwarycz, friend of Don & Mary Ann Manderscheid Rita Norton, mother of Pat Braida Chester Wojcik, father of Ken Isabelle Mazur, sister of Loretta Rejman Gerry Plourde, mother of Jackie Dan Wood, cousin of Don & Betty Wampach Audrey Page-Sauer, friend of Fred Hatcher for the deceased… Gus Gianopoulos, husband of Angelina Raymond Swanson, brother-in-law of Gene & Carol Rados Elmer Meyers, grandfather of Jennifer Pasterick George Orsini, father of Ron & Sue Doug Rassmussen, father of Andy The victims of the Arizona shooting

Today’s Readings First Reading — The glory of the Lord shows through Israel, a light to all nations, that salvation may reach to the ends of the earth (Isaiah 49:3, 5-6). Psalm — Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will (Psalm 40). Second Reading — All those who call upon the name of the Lord are called to be holy (1 Corinthians 1:1-3). Gospel — John the Baptist testifies: The one who comes after me, on whom the Spirit comes down and remains, is the Son of God (John 1:29-34).

Readings for the Week Mon: Heb 5:1-10; Mk 2:18-22 Tues: Heb 6:10-20; Mk 2:23-28 Wed: Heb 7:1-3, 15-17; Mk 3:1-6 Thurs: Heb 7:25 — 8:6; Mk 3:7-12 Fri: Heb 8:6-13; Mk 3:13-19 Sat: Heb 9:2-3, 11-14; Mk 3:20-21 Sun: Is 8:23 — 9:3; Ps 27; 1 Cor 1:10-13, 17; Mt 4:12-23 [12-17]

Happy those who can make this prayer their own: Christ, you see who I am. For me, not to hide anything in my heart from you is a necessity. You were a human being, too. And when my inner self seems to be pulled in a thousand different directions, My thirsting heart reaches the point of praying: “Enable me to live a life rooted in you, Jesus the Christ; Unify my desire and my thirst.”

Amen. Brother Roger of Taize

Jan 16, 2011 — Page 6

Faith and Spiritual Formation Commission

Today we wrap up our Advent and Christmas season se-ries on Mary, the Mother of Jesus. We have addressed Mary as a faith-filled believer, pray-er and disciple. We looked at her challenges as a new parent. We celebrated her status as the Immaculate Conception on Dec.8 and as the Mother of God on January 1st. And so we’ll end with one more Church teaching regarding Mary and that has to do with her death. This event is celebrated on August 15 and we know it as the feast of the Assumption. Though not officially instituted until 1950 by Pope Pius XII, local churches were celebrating Mary’s dormition since the early 500’s. This means that she was spared from physi-cal death and was taken up, body and soul, directly to the glory of heaven. It’s a fitting ending to the story of the one St. Bernard described as “. . . her who was deemed worthy to be made the living sanctuary of the Holy Spirit and the dwelling of the Son of God.” This makes Mary the first hu-man being to participate fully in the bodily Resurrection and glory of her Son. In heaven, she waits for us, her spiritual children, to join her in life everlasting. And what good mother would not want that for her beloved children?

C.A.R.E. CORNER

Bible Study Opportunity “Plagues hit Egypt” “Mass exodus of slaves” “Egyptian Army Falls at Red Sea” “Strange Happenings at Mt. Sinai” – Those are just a few of the headlines pulled from the Book of Exodus, the next subject of study by the Thursday “Spread the Word” Bible Studies. Would you like to know more about the background and meaning of these texts, both for the ancients and us today? “Israel on the Move” is an interactive study, combining prayer, study and discussion. Choose the time most conven-ient for you, either mornings from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. OR evenings from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. Sessions in the Senior Cen-ter will run from January 6 to June 2, then re-convene in Sept. Make a full-time commitment, drop in whenever you can, or just “come and see.” Everyone is welcome – no pre-vious Bible knowledge is necessary. Bring a friend, or make new ones; we’re all “Companions on the Journey” of faith, begun by the Hebrew people millennia ago, yet vibrant and alive today! To sign in, contact Chari Rosales in the Adult Faith For-mation Office 630.355.8980x138 or rosales@stapostle.org). Child care is available at the morning sessions.

St. Thomas Baptism Team Invites New Members The St. Thomas Baptism Team is welcoming new members to help with the Baptism Ministry at St. Thomas. Team members primarily assist families at Baptisms during various weekend Masses, and on designated Sundays after Mass at 12:30 p.m. As-sistance includes directing families in procedures for the Baptism that day, and helping with cere-mony logistics. Team members sign up for those baptisms they would like to assist. This ministry is a wonderful opportunity to share your faith with families embracing the new life of their child, and entrance into the church community. Please consider participating in this very im-portant and meaningful ministry, that will enrich your faith, too! Couples or individuals who would like to serve families bringing their children to the Sacrament of Baptism are invited to contact Ron and Eileen Lane 630.961.1114 or Chari Rosales (630.355.8980 for more information. Thank you for considering this opportunity!

Men’s 13th Annual Retreat Jan. 28 – 30, 2011 Servant Kings: Transformed in God’s Truth King energy unites, integrates and uplifts the challenges and opportunities of life. Come join your brothers to ex-plore and celebrate our identity as sons of God. The retreat starts with dinner on Friday and ends by noon on Sun-day. Reservations can be made on the weekends of January 8, January 15 and January 22 after all Masses. Questions or concerns? Contact Ted McKeown 630.466.9501 or TheoMcKe-own@msn.com"

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FROM THE ST. THOMAS RESOURCE CENTER Happy New Year Everyone! As a new year begins, take a moment to focus on your spiritual life and its renewal. With this theme in mind, please check out the bookrack in the Gathering Area for the following books: Everyday Simplicity: A Practical Guide to Spiritual Growth Bio-Spirituality In His Spirit: A Guide to Today’s Spirituality The Fruit of the Spirit Prayer, Stress, & Our Inner Wounds Chicken Soup for the Christian Soul Moving in the Spirit Springs of Spirituality Growing Strong at Broken Places Refresh Your Life in the Spirit The Search for Significance The Journey Within

Sophia’s Circle Women’s Ministry Presents: Sacred Circles

January 21, 6:30pm-9:00pm

What does the next year hold for you? Go deeper…what about the next decade? Can you “image” your life? Come for a creative, hands-on micro-retreat, Fri-day, January 21 from 6:30-9pm. Spiritual director, JoAnn Hassler will lead participants in exploring and making sacred circles. Come ready to pray, to vision and create. This is a time to remember, release, em-brace and image our personal journey

What: Sophia’s Circle Micro Retreat When: Friday, Jan 21, 6:30 to 9pm. For whom: Women, all ages Where: St. Thomas Gym Cost: $10 at the door Reservations: Required, space limited

As always, the evening will begin with wine and light refreshments. Register today by email (preferred) to sfrancesconi@stapostle.org. Or, register by phone. Leave your name, phone number and email address at 630.355.8980 ext 108.

Seek—Pray—Find...The Divine Within Join us for a Women’s Weekend!

WHO? Women of St. Thomas and their friends, sisters, cousins and neighbors.

WHAT? A WONDERFUL, joyful, spirit-filled weekend!

WHEN? Feb 18~20, 5pm Friday to noon Sunday

WHY? “To reconnect with God, myself and other women” (quote from a 2009 participant)

WHERE? Carmelite Spiritual Center in Darien

It’s all planned by women for women for healing, growth, quiet time,

communion and peace. GREAT meals, small groups, optional yoga, mas-sage, art therapy, calming atmosphere and Fr. Bob Colaresi’s wisdom.

We’d love to have you come ~ Join us!

Jan 16, 2011 — Page 8

Laura Swanson Stephanie Swiertz Sharon Yelaska

Family Prayer Service for First Eucharist Parents will be presenting their children as candidates for reception of First Communion at the first Family Prayer Service on Wednesday, January 19 at 7:00 p.m. in the church. Please pray for these children as they pre-pare to receive Jesus in the Eucharist, an event of great joy for them, their families and our whole faith commu-nity. Fifth Graders Meet at Church for Reconciliation Service Please make note of the following dates, location and adjusted Saturday times in your calendar:

Tues, Jan 25: 5th graders meet at St. Thomas in the church instead of Brookdale School from 4:30 p.m. until 5:45 p.m. Parents may participate in the Reconciliation Service. If a parent attends, your child may leave with you when finished. Otherwise, students are to be picked up at the Gathering Area at 5:45 p.m.

Sat, Jan 29 (Please note the following time change.) All Saturday A and B classes will meet at St. Thomas in the church instead of All Saints Catholic Academy from 8:30 a.m. until 9:45 a.m. Parents may participate in the Reconciliation Service. If a parent attends, your child may leave with you when finished. Otherwise, students are to be picked up at the Gathering Area at 9:45 a.m.

Important to note: All Saturday, 5th grade students are to attend the 8:30 a.m. session at the church. There will be no 5th grade classes at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday Jan. 29.

Students may leave their books and folders at home. Call the Religious Education Office 630.305.6318 if you have questions or if your child has not yet received this sacrament.

? Families: Take some time to discuss and reflect on the readings of the week.

Question of the Week...

What prevents me from finding God?

Religious Education 1st Reconciliation Parent Meetings Parents of children preparing to receive the Sacra-ment of Reconciliation for the first time, have been sent letters regarding parent meetings. Parents should attend one of two meetings: Saturday, January 22 at 8:30 a.m. at All Saints Catholic Academy or Monday, January 24 at 7:15 p.m. at Church. If you have a child who should be preparing for their first Reconciliation and did not receive an information letter, please call the Religious Education office 630.305.6318. Liturgy of the Word with Children There will be Liturgy of the Word for 4th and 5th grad-ers on Sunday, January 23 at the 9:00 and 10:45 Litur-gies. They should process out with the other children, (ages 4 through Grade 3) and go to the rooms next to the Cabin. No registration is required. Kindergarteners as Church Kindergarteners who attend Religious Education will have a church visit on January 22 instead of their regular R.E. class. Both sessions of Kindergarten are to attend 8:30 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. and should be dropped off in the Church Narthex. There will be no class for Kindergarten-ers at 10:30 a.m. After January 22, please stop by the hallway across from the nursery in the Ministry Center to see the wall hanging made by the children, representing these youth as “church”. Thank you to the following catechists and aides who spend Saturday mornings sharing our faith with these children.

Marge Coronado (Grade Level Coordinator) Catherine Ainger Christina Coronado Carolyn Cuzzone Burnice Monteiro First Grade Fun Fair First Graders in the Religious Education Program, along with a parent, are invited to attend the First Grade Fun Fair on Saturday, January 29 in the gym at St. Thomas any time between 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. First Graders should bring their snack or juice donations with them and put it on the snack tables outside the gym. Tickets for the games will be held at the gym door for each child. Questions may be directed to the First Grade Coordinator, Rosemary Karl 630.357.4321 or to Patti Dougherty in the R.E. Office 630.305.6318.

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High School Youth Ministry This Sunday’s Gospel reading from John is won-derful, yet it challenges us deeply. A recent study points to the trend that more and more adults see value in religion, but may not necessarily believe them as true. So what is the TRUTH of our faith? Take a moment today to honestly ask yourself: Do you believe what John the Baptist proclaims today? Do you honestly believe that Jesus IS the Son of God and DOES “take away the sin of the world?” It seems to me that being a “good Catholic” is a meaningless phrase without that core belief. Let’s prove that sur-vey wrong and demonstrate our BELIEF that Christ is our Savior and we have confidence in eternal life! Want to find out more? Attend the January 23 Journey Night to see what really makes us Catholic at the core, not just surface-level. Upcoming Dates: Jan 16 Quest Night for Sophomores and Juniors (5pm) Parent Mission Trip Info Meeting (5pm, Gathering Area) Jan 23 Pancake Breakfast (8:30am – noon) Journey Night with John Grossman “Catholic Pizza Pie” Required for High School teens and parents. All are welcome to attend as well. Gym. 4:45pm arrive for seating. Jan 30 Quest Night for Sophomores and Juniors (5pm) Parent Mission Trip Info Meeting (5pm, Gathering Area)

Save the Date – For Parents Thurs, Feb 24, 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. All Saints Catholic Academy Because it takes a cool parent to raise a GEEK Come to All-Saints Catholic Academy (1155 Aurora Avenue, Naperville) to hear Bringing up GEEKS author, Marybeth Hicks, speak on how to protect our kids’ childhood in a grow-up-too-fast world. Mary-beth will talk about how parents can raise Genuine, Enthusiastic, Empowered Kids. Marybeth is recognized for bringing experience, wit and understanding to universal problems facing families today. She is a popular TV and radio per-sonality, and has appeared on ABC World News with Charles Gibson, Oprah and Friends Radio, NPR, Fox, and EWTN’s The World Over, as well as dozens of regional programs. She also appears weekly on Morning Air, the flagship national morning drive show on Relevant Radio.

Mission Trips 2010-2011 Today’s first reading says to us “The Lord said to me: You are my servant” Isaiah 49:3. Are we serving our God? Serving one another is one way we can di-rectly serve God, and what better way this summer than doing a mission trip? Last year we sent over 50 people on mission trips. This year we are going to: Chicago, Mississippi, Nicaragua, Haiti, and either Hopkins Park or St. Nicholas. Let’s hit 100 participants! If you went last year and want to go again, don’t wait, these spots are filling quickly. Mission trips applications are outside my office. Deadline extended to Jan 31 (or until trips fill) Parent info meetings are: Jan 16, 5pm and Jan 30, 5pm in Gathering Area (i.e. during Quest). More informa-tion, applications, videos, etc can be found on the Youth Ministry webpage under “Missions” (http://ym.stapostle.org). Ski Trip – Feb 25

Forms outside Kevin’s Office

Jan 16, 2011 — Page 10

Service Commission Outreach & Social Justice St. Thomas Habitat – Team 2 Report Last June St. Thomas sent three mission teams to Tutwiler, Mississippi to work with Habitat for Humanity. Below is the report on Team2, as reported by Allison Patten, Affiliate Coordinator, West Tallahatchie HFH In past years St. Thomas has come down for two work weeks but this year they upped the ante and extended their stay in Tutwiler, MS for a third week. For the first time, Youth Minister Kevin brought down 14 teenagers and five adults to spend a week working on houses with West Tallahatchie Habitat for Humanity (WTHFH) and by the end it became so much more. We kept the group busy and did our best to keep them entertained while doing tedious tasks such as staining and painting 3 coats of poly-urethane on kitchen cabinets, interior doors, baseboard, and colonial trim for House 34 and priming and painting our rehab house. Everyone wanted to help cover up the gables on House 35 because that entailed climbing on lad-ders and swinging a hammer and nailing wafer board up but only the tall guys could reach high enough. A group of girls spent the entire week assisting Tim in fixing the cement floor in House 34 so we could tile over it. On the last day they were finally able to cover up their week’s work with vinyl tile and it turned out beautifully. This group emulated enthusiasm, appreciation, and kindness on the work site, in the dorm, and in the community. They brought a lot of themselves to WTHFH and hopefully went away with new friendships, great memories, and Tut-wiler, MS in their hearts.

St. Thomas will again send three teams to Tutwiler next June. Individuals and families with children of high school age are welcome. Are you called to this action? If you would like more information contact the OSJ Office (mryder@stapostle.org, 630-355-8980 x121)

Choose Life Petition Next weekend, as part of our annual Pro-Life weekend, you will be invited to sign a petition to establish "Choose Life" specialty license plates in Illinois. All proceeds from the sales will go to adoption agencies, crisis pregnancy centers, and homes for unwed mothers that are not-for-profit and do not refer mothers to abortion clinics. If im-plemented, there is no cost to taxpayers. The revenue from "Choose Life" license plates could help provide mothers in crisis pregnancies with a REAL CHOICE. If the mother chooses to place her baby for adoption, pregnancy and deliv-ery related expenses are paid by the proceeds from these plates. It is a win-win situation: the mother chooses life for her baby, her baby lives, and the adoptive parents have a child.

Quarterly Diaper Drive for Woman’s Choice Services The Pro-Life Ministry will be having its quarterly diaper & wipes drive for two weekends beginning next weekend (January 15/16). This drive will benefit Woman’s Choice Services in Downer’s Grove, a Catholic-based pregnancy assistance cen-ter. Please drop your donation of diapers (sizes 1, 2 or 3) and/or wipes in the Gathering Area playpen next weekend. Thank you for your amazing generosity! — St. Thomas Pro-Life Ministry

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Swaddling Project Results Thank you, thank you, thank you … Our sincere thanks for a hugely successful Swad-dling Project this Christmas! You gave almost 60 bags full of the most beautiful baby clothes, blan-kets, socks, bibs, etc. We also collected 40 packages of diapers and 38 packages of wipes. These items were warmly received this week by Waterleaf Women's Center in Aurora. The members of the Pro-Life ministry at St. Thomas continue to be amazed by your generosity. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Free Tax Return Preparation … Free tax return preparation is available for families with incomes of less than $50,000 and individuals with incomes less than $25,000. Opens on January 29 at Waubonsee Community College. 5 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora Wednesdays from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM Pick-up a flyer in the Gathering Area or visit www.stapostle.org for detailed information.

Care Pantry Party --- Gifts Given by God This year’s Care Pantry Christmas party theme was Happy Birthday, Jesus. We asked guests to think about a gift they have been given by God to share with others, a gift they would like to develop in themselves, or a gift they are thankful for. We gave each person a small cutout in the shape of a present and asked them to write their gift on the paper. We then invited them to tape their presents around one of the Nativity scenes posted on the walls. Below are some of the written responses: • The gift of laughter. • I want to gift my mom and dad a hug. • I am thankful for my mother putting food on the table. • I would like to give homeless people new clothes instead of them having to wear the same clothes over and over again. • I am thankful for the shoes my dad & mom bought me. • I’m thankful for being able to take care of my grandchildren. • Thankful for the gift of love and family. Being able to share the gift of giving. May the gift of the Christ Child’s light shine in our hearts, our homes, and our world throughout the coming year.

Spanish/English Interpreter Needed The Quito Barrio Outreach consortium is made up of a number of parishes, including St. Thomas, to support Father Don Kenny’s work in Quito Barrio in Ecuador. Our parish has sent a number of youth mis-sions to Quito. Father Don, our previous St. Thomas Pastor, will be here to visit us in early February. Holy Spirit Church in Naperville is sending a medical mission to Quito July 16-23. They are in need of a Spanish/English interpreter for the team. No medical experience required. The cost is approximately $1,000. If you are called to help, please contact Kathy Ford 630.922.0081x28, kford@holyspiritnaperville.org) by the end of January for more information. For more information on Quito Barrio Outreach and Father Don’s work visit www.QuitoBarrioOutreach.org.

Jan 16, 2011 — Page 12

Lehavree Service Celebrates Healing My Love is Everlasting Jan 24—7:30 pm St. Thomas Lighthouse

Parish Nurse Note: Be Good to Your Digestive Tract Your digestive system doesn’t just break down food. It also protects you from germs and releases hormones related to mood, stress and more, includ-ing bone growth. Here are some ways to help keep your gut healthy, doctors say: Nurture friendly bacteria — “Good” strains of bac-teria – which can stimulate your immune system to fight off disease – love to feed on fiber. So load on fiber-rich foods such as fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Eat slowly — Your body needs time to digest food properly, and inhaling your meal will overload your system (and make you gassy, since you’re likely swallowing lots of air). Chew each bite well so your digestive system won’t have to break down large chunks of food. Avoid your heartburn triggers — Common culprits are acidic, fatty or spicy foods, carbonated drinks, chocolate, onions and products made with whole milk. Meanwhile, artificial sweeteners and lots of beans, onions or cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower can cause gas. Exercise regularly — Breaking a sweat reduces bloating, gas and constipation. Walk, run or bike outside to help soothe nerves, too. Don’t use colonic “cleansers” or overuse antibiotics — You will kill off good bacteria and clear the way for more harmful germs to grow. Buy foods with probiotics — Yogurt, soy based drinks, juice and cereal are possible sources of these microorganisms, thought to help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the intestines. Source: healthkey.com

Pastoral Care

“Save the Date” for the next

BLOOD DRIVE Tuesday, Feb. 1 from 3-7:30 pm

Does your family struggle with a mental illness? If so, you are not alone! NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) of DuPage County has free courses for family members starting in January and February in Naperville and Wheaton. For more information or to register, go to www.namidupage.org (click on Education), or call 630.752.0066x210.

Counseling Service: Call Samaritan Interfaith 357-2456 or

Jan Olah, Pastoral Care 355-8980 x 124

Page 13 — Jan 16, 2011

OFFICES CLOSED Monday, January 17

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Jobs Ministry Weekly Networking Meeting Friday mornings at 9:30 a.m. (after the 8:30 a.m. Liturgy) Gym

Administration Commission

St. Thomas the Apostle Church, 1500 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563 630.355.8980. Friday meeting formats include announcements, speaker presentation, and 2 rounds of networking. Prepare your elevator speech, and bring handbills to pass out to 20 fellow networkers. Wednesday night is speaker only, no formal networking. Contact Jim Breen at jimb4853@yahoo.com for more info.

THE WEEK AHEAD... Tuesday, Jan. 18 4:30—5:45 p.m. “Jesus as a Boy” R.E. 1st Grade, Ministry Center 4:30—5:45 p.m. R. E. Classes at Brookdale School 7:00—9:00 p.m. Voices of Faith, Church 7:00—9:00 p.m. Charismatic Prayer Group, Judea 7:00—9:00 p.m. Adult Basketball, Gym 7:00—9:0 p.m. Baptism Prep Session, Senior Center Wednesday, Jan. 19 6:00—10:00 p.m. ALPHA, Lighthouse 7:00—9:30 p.m. Coed Volleyball, Gym 7:00—7:40 p.m. 1st Eucharist Prayer Service, Church 7:00—9:00 p.m. STEP, Judea Thursday, Jan. 20 10:00am-12:00 p.m. Prayer Shawl Ministry, Cana 9:!5—11:15 a.m. Spread the Word Bible Study, Senior Center 4:15—5:30 p.m. Jammers, Church 6:00—7:15 p.m. Journey Praise, Church 6:30—8:00 p.m. Prayer Shawl Ministry, Cana 7:30—9:00 p.m. Spread the Word Bible Study, Senior Center 7:00—9:00 p.m. Ensemble Rehearsal, Lighthouse 7:00—8:30 p.m. Teens with Character Pillar Meeting, Gym 7:30—10:00 p.m. Jubilate Rehearsal, Church Friday, Jan. 21 9:00—11:30 a.m. Bible Study, Senior Center 9:15am-12:00 p.m. Jobs Ministry, Gym 6:30—9:30 p.m. Sophia Mini Retreat, Gym Saturday, Jan. 22 8:30—9:45 a.m. Kindergarten Church Visit, Church 8:30—11:45 a.m. R. E. Classes at All Saints 8:30—9:45 a.m. Reconciliation Parent Mtg. All Saints Cafeteria 9:00am-12:00 p.m. Art Class, Senior Center 9:00—10:30 a.m. Men’s Saturday Sharing, Resource Center 10:00am-2:00pm RCIA Story Retreat, Rectory Basement 10:15—11:15 a.m. Rainbows, Ministry Center Sunday, Jan. 23 8:00am-1:00 p.m. Pancake Breakfast, Gym 9:00—11:45 a.m. Liturgy of the Word with Children , Ministry Center

JANUARY KEYNOTE SPEAKER Wednesday, Jan 26, 7:00 p.m.: Empower YOU! Make a Lifestyle Change! Presented by Judy Feldhausen Can you relate? Weight gain, Constipation, Food Cravings/Hot flashes, Inflammation, Stubborn fat, Low Energy, Depression/Insomnia, Mood swings/irritability, Anxiety TAKE CONTROL! Understand the role of how these powerful life controlling factors have an effect on men and women of all ages and learn how to take back control of your life. Remove the negative effects by applying the knowledge of diet and nutrition to achieve the greatest quality of life. Learn a LIFE-STYLE approach to create a future of health and wellness, hear inspiring life changing testimonies, and fuel yourself with the power to do so! EMPOWER YOU...make a lifestyle change! Judy Feldhausen has been helping people build their dreams as a certified coach for ten years and is also a Certified Seminar Leader. Her corporate em-ployment ranges from electronics to cosmetics- work-ing in customer service, sales and marketing for For-tune 100 companies. Her highest honors are being named Illinois Woman of Achievement and recog-nized in the Cambridge Who’s Who. The organiza-tion which Judy founded, focuses on helping indi-viduals unlock their strengths while developing new habits of mind. Her work has expanded to include proper nutrition and supplements.

FrI, Jan 21, :30 a.m.: Marcia Kittler will present, " Go Beyond Survive". Marcia is a certified planner, showing businesses how to survive disasters and turn crisis into opportunity. As a self-employed consultant, she ex-periences a constant "job search" made exceptionally chal-lenging by our tight fisted economy. Hear Marcia share stories about how she turns job search crisis into opportu-nity. Go home inspired in your own spirited search. Go beyond survive, to thrive.

Wed, Jan 26, 7 pm: Speaker Night: Judy Feld-hausen presents, "Empower YOU! Make a Life-style Change". This presentation will help you over-come limiting factors in your lifestyle, like weight gain, low energy, anxiety, and many more. Learn how to create a healthy lifestyle. Judy is a certified coach and seminar leader and has expanded her work to include proper nutri-tion to maintain an Empowered Lifestyle.

Jan 16, 2011 — Page 14

Last Weekend’s stewardship of financial gifts...

Weekly Sunday Offertory Jan 9, 2011 (week 28) Automatic Direct Debit Mailed in & stock donations Total for week *Based on Collection Counters Reports

Fiscal Year (7/1 to 6/30) to date: Weekly Average 7/1/10 to date: Offertory Goal Year to Date Over/short of goal to date: Goal for Fiscal Year 7/1 to 6/30 Remaining for Fiscal Year goal Diocesan Appeal Updated Results Parish Appeal Goal: Pledges Received: % of Goal pledged to date: Remaining amount to goal Number of Appeal Donors:

$20,965 $18,154 $4,744

$43,863

$1,008,797 $36,028

$1,000,692 $8,105

$1,858,400 $849,603

$142,782 $108,842

76.23 $33,940

619

Stewardship: It’s a way of Life

Now that the Church's celebration of the Christmas season is finished, we focus on the public ministry of Jesus for the next few Sundays, until the begin-ning of Lent. Each of these readings explains to us what it means to be called a servant of God. We are also called to be a sanctified people, to be holy in the sight of God.

Keep Faith. Support the Church in Latin America.

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, “I would like to thank all those who make it possible in one way or another for me to go

ahead with my formation. I pray for all of you.”

—Sr. Bertha Ceclia, Salizar Cornejo, Peru Funded project: Formation of 20 novices and 70 junior sisters

Projects such as the one benefiting Sr. Bertha are possible through the support of the Collection for the Church in Latin America. This Collection supports the Church of the region through funding of pastoral projects like evangelization, for-mation of religious, and catechesis. Our diocese takes up this Collection the weekend of January 22/23. In addition to supporting ongoing pastoral work, the Col-lection for the Church in Latin America faces the challenge of rebuilding the Church when natural disasters occur, such as the earthquake in Haiti in January 2010. Seminaries, churches, and schools were devastated, and the already lim-ited resources are being stretched. It will take many years to rebuild the Church in Haiti, and the Collection will support it every step of the way. Please be generous in the Collection for the Church in Latin America and keep faith. Your support will truly make a difference. Thank you. God bless you. Sincerely in Christ, Most Rev. Joseph M. Siegel Auxiliary Bishop of Joliet Diocesan Administrator

Mark your new calendar DONUT SUNDAYS in 2011 January 9 and 30 February 13 and 27 March 13 April 10 May 21/22 with Ministry Fair