St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church . Naperville IL . 630.355.8980 Roman Catholic Diocese of Joliet-in-Illinois

Most Rev. R. Daniel Conlon, Bishop Most Rev. Joseph Siegel, Auxiliary Bishop

Most Rev. Joseph L. Imesch, Bishop Emeritus

Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time, September 2, 2012

*indicates part-time staff

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 Priests Rev. Don E. McLaughlin – Pastor, x102, dmclaughlin@stapostle.org Rev. Rodolphe Arty, C.S.C. – Parochial Vicar, x 103, rarty@stapostle.org Rev. Bob Colaresi, O. Carm. – Weekend Associate, robco@robco.org Permanent Deacons Rev. Mr. Michael (Kathryn) Barrett – x220, meabarrett@att.net Rev. Mr. Jim (Mary Jo) Breen – 630.357.4853, jimb4853@yahoo.com Rev. Mr. Larry (Susan) Kearney – x225, lrkearney@comcast.net Rev. Mr. Chuck (Sue) Lane – x220, chucklane2@juno.com Rev. Mr. Pat (Mary Jo) Lennon – x220, presence.now@gmail.com Liturgy Kate Cuddy – Director of Music and Liturgy, x112, kcuddy@stapostle.org Scott Knisley – Asst. Director of Music and Liturgy, x111, sknisley@stapostle.org Lori Culberson – Liturgy Coordinator, x120, lculberson@stapostle.org Theresa Sheliga* – Sacristan Coordinator, x116 Faith Formation Sandy Renehan – Principal at All Saints Catholic Academy 630.961.6125 Patti Dougherty – Director of Religious Education, x109, pdougherty@stapostle.org Brett Adams – Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, x117, badams@stapostle.org Peggy Goralski – Associate Partner of Youth Ministry, x123, pgoralski@stapostle.org Chari Rosales – Director of Adult Education & RCIA x138, crosales@stapostle.org Nancy Cirmo – Religious Education Assistant, x118, ncirmo@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, x140, 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 Elizabeth Fisher* – Evening/Saturday Receptionist Mary Wright* – Evening/Saturday Receptionist Marge Coronado – Administration and R.E. Asst, x219, mcoronado@stapostlr.org Marilyn DeMeo* – Database Coordinator (T/Th), x107, mdemeo@stapostle.org Angie Tuttle – Bulletin and Web Editor, Liturgy Asst, x110, atuttle@stapostle.org Bob Hartmann – Facility Manager, x133, facility@stapostle.org Pastoral Leadership Community Christine Berta 579.4294 Pam Foster 699.3044 Charles Haydon 369.2262

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) Mass — 8:30 a.m.

Weekend Saturday Vigil — 4:30 p.m. Sunday — 8:00, 9:30, 11:15 a.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., in the Reconciliation Room of the Chapel. Fr. Don is available during the week by appointment. Communal Penance services are held occasionally during 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 630.305.6318 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 630.355.8980. Counseling Service Call Samaritan Interfaith 630.357.2456 or Jan Olah, Pastoral Care 630.355.8980 x 124. Sunday Nursery Nursery care is available for your child age one (walking) to four at the 9:30 a.m. Mass. For more information call the church office.

Our Old Testament and Gos-pel readings today speak of laws. Many of us have a negative feel-ing when the word law is men-tioned. Often when we hear this word we think of a restriction of some kind, a taking away of our freedom, a deprivation or restric-tion of our choices. In addition, we resent laws because often they appear to be arbitrary; for exam-ple in England people are re-quired to drive on the left hand

side of the road while in the US we are required to drive on the right hand side of the road. Unfortunately, many Catholics regard the Sunday obligation to attend Mass with a certain amount of re-sentment. They feel that requiring weekly participation is an arbi-trary decision on the part of the Church’s hierarchy. However, when adult Catholics make the effort to understand the Eucharist, this obligation is seen as a necessary condition for personal spiri-tual growth and building up the community of faith. Family life requires that the family spend a certain amount of time together. We all know the consequences for a family when parents and chil-dren have little time in common. Such is the case with a parish family…members require regular participation in the weekly meal, the Eucharist. I have often heard Catholics say that they don’t go to Mass anymore because they “don’t get anything out of the Mass”. The only response I can give them is that they can’t hope to get anything out of the Mass if they don’t put anything into it! While many laws are for our protection and safety we should look upon God’s laws as signposts. When driving in an unfamiliar area we are grateful for every highway sign we spot along the way. God has provided his “signposts” in the Bible and in the authentic teachings of the Church. As we approach another election in No-vember, it is incumbent on us Catholics to form our conscientious by reflecting on God’s laws and the teaching of the Church. For guides on how to do this, I encourage you to visit www.faithfulcitizenship.org the official site of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. God’s laws therefore, are actually instructions for which we should be grateful. It is for that reason the Psalmist says, “I rejoice to walk in the path of freedom, because I follow your pre-cepts” (Psalm 119). Life is a road that we travel only once. Don’t you think that it is a great benefit to have God’s laws to keep us from taking a lot of unnecessary, even harmful digressions from the right road?

22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time September 2, 2012 Humbly welcome the word that has been planted in you and is able to save your souls.

— James 1:21b

Welcome Guests and Visitors! We’re so glad you’re here and invite you to walk the path of faith with us. St. Thomas strives to provide a spiritual home where all are welcome, where the healing, reconciling, liberating love of God is shared by all. We believe the church is the sacrament of God’s saving presence in the world, join us! Would you like to become a Parishioner? Call Kathy Ferguson 630.355.8980.

From the Pastor’s Desk

September 2, 2012, Page 4

Worship Commission—Liturgy & Music

Presider’s Schedule September 8/9

Saturday 4:30 pm, Fr. Don McLaughlin, Deacon Pat Lennon

Sunday 8:00 am, Fr. Don McLaughlin 9:30 am, Fr. Don McLaughlin, Deacon Jim Breen 11:15 am, Fr. Don McLaughlin 6:00 pm, Fr. Dof Arty, Deacon Larry Kearney

Schedule is subject to change. Today’s Readings First Reading — For what great nation is there that has gods so close to it as the LORD, our God, is to us? (Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-8). Psalm — The one who does justice will live in the presence of the Lord (Psalm 15). Second Reading — Religion that is pure is this: to care for orphans and widows in their affliction (James 1:17-18, 21b-22, 27). Gospel — This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines human precepts (Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23). The English translation of the Psalm Responses from the Lectionary for Mass © 1969, 1981, 1997, International Commission on English in the Liturgy Corporation. All rights reserved.

Readings for the Week

Mon: 1 Cor 2:1-5; Lk 4:16-30 Tues: 1 Cor 2:10b-16; Lk 4:31-37 Wed: 1 Cor 3:1-9; Lk 4:38-44 Thurs: 1 Cor 3:18-23; Lk 5:1-11 Fri: 1 Cor 4:1-5; Lk 5:33-39 Sat: Mi 5:1-4a or Rom 8:28-30; Mt 1:1-16, 18-23 [18-23] Sun: Is 35:4-7a; Ps 146; Jas 2:1-5; Mk 7:31-37

Sunday 6:00 p.m. Mass Resumes The Sunday 6:00 p.m. Mass will resume Septem-ber 9. This is a very upbeat, lively mass geared for youth and the young at heart. All ministers are needed — Lectors, Musicians, Choir Members, and Eucharis-tic Ministers. If you are interested, call Lori Culber-son at 630.355.8980 x 120.

Fr. Don’s Formal Installation Fr. Don will be formally installed as the fourth pastor of St. Thomas on September 30 at the 9:30 a.m. mass by Fr. Thomas Sularz. Fr. Thomas Sularz is the pastor of St. Daniel the Prophet in Wheaton and is also Dean of the Western Dupage Deanery. A recep-tion for Fr. Don will follow the Mass.

HELP! Altar Servers…it’s not too late! A training session is scheduled for Wednesday, September 12 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. You only need to attend one session. Inter-ested? Contact Lori Culberson 630.355.8980 x 120. Also….it’s not too late to sign-up to be a Eucha-ristic Minister or a Host Greeter. These ministers are needed for all Masses, but Host Greeters are espe-cially needed for the 11:15am Mass on Sundays. Training is provided! All you need is a welcoming heart and a willingness to serve the community!

“Broken and Beautiful” “Broken and Beautiful” is an award winning faith-based musical film that will be shown at 7:00 p.m. Saturday, September 8 at St. Matthew Catholic Church in Glendale Heights. It uses contemporary Christian music as it weaves together stories of be-lievers in the midst of struggles. Tickets are $5 and available at the door. Writer/director, Erin Dalian will be in attendance at the screening.

Commissioning of Ministers Next Weekend, September 8/9, there will be a Commissioning of Ministers at all masses. All minis-ters will be invited to stand for a blessing, and be strengthened for a new year of ministry. Please plan to attend.

Choir Season is Upon Us! St. Thomas’ Choirs are beginning again. Singers and Instrumentalists of all ages are needed. Why not consider this calling? If interested, please see what group you would fit into, and attend the first re-hearsal. Come for a warm welcome and meet the fine people of this music ministry! St. Thomas Youth Choir (Grades 2-5):

Rehearse Mondays from 4:15pm to 5:15pm First Rehearsal: September 10

St. Thomas Middle School Choir (Grades 6-8): Rehearse Thursdays from 4:15pm to 5:15pm First Rehearsal: September 6

St. Thomas High School Choir (Journey Praise): Rehearse Thursdays from 6pm to 7pm First Rehearsal: September 6

St. Thomas Adult Choir (Voices of Faith): Rehearse Tuesdays from 7:30pm to 9:30pm First Rehearsal: September 4

Page 5 — September 2, 2012

Pray For Our Parish

Mass Intentions Monday, September 3, 2012 8:30 Blessing of Human Labor Tuesday, September 4, 2012 8:30 †Floyd & Martina Crane, by Al Adducci Wednesday, September 5, 2012 8:30 †Anne Battisto, by Joseph Battisto †John Easton, by Audrey Easton Thursday, September 6, 2012 8:30 †John Mahoney, by Pam Cieslak † Friday, September 7, 2012 8:30 †Alvin Barbret, by Craig & Diane Barbret †Reggie Tuazon, by Tess & Family Saturday, September 8, 2012 8:30 † 4:30 †Virginia Orcutt, by Family †Emilia Hlinka, by Anthony Hlinka Sunday, September 9, 2012 8:00 †Robert Jones, by Audrey Easton 9:30 †Ray Schaeffer, by Voices of Faith †Mary T. Mills, by Pastoral Care Dept. 11:15 For the People of St. Thomas 6:00 †Marj Maher, by Marya Wernecke

Cpt. Matthew Haselhorst Sgt. William Stuart 1st Lt. Chris Turley

SR Joel Curry SR Jeffrey Bates

Please Pray for our Men and Women Serving in the Military Our parish community would like to recognize and remember the following individuals in prayer:

U.S. Air Force Lt. Joseph Zito Staff Sgt. Brooke Sica Airman Maxwell Dempsey

Air Force National Guard Senior Airman Jacob Brancaleon

U.S. Army Lt. Alanna Casey Sgt. Aaron Simms PFC Sean Wesley SPC Eric Servatius Warrant Officer Aviation Kyle Zimmerman

U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Kevin Martin Corporal Aaron Murphy Lance Corporal Oliver Buckley Captain Brad Rothman Lt. Colin Miller-Ratcliffes Lance Corporal Tommy Balducci

U.S. Navy AT3 Amanda Schlarman Ensign Jason Coons

U.S. Coast Guard

Call the parish office 630.355.8980 to include someone you love in the Military prayer list.

For the sick… Cardinal Francis George Eva Salazar, wife of Rod Jeanne Danhauser, sister of Mary Hronek Margaret Fogerty Pat Kammer, wife of Ray Mary Gorecki Roy Mathews friend of Jim Breen Armando Spencer, father of Fatima Moriarty Gregg Kurth, brother in-law of Julie Simmons-Trapp Larry Kieklack, husband of Mary, father of Beth Pojman; Al Keener, husband of Maureen

Christ Jesus, we know you are here. we know and believe that in the midst of all things – good and bad, joyful and fearful, in peace and in stress, in birth and in death – you are here. help us to always remember and name you as present with us in our daily life, in the ordinary and extraordinary, whether alone, or in the midst of loving relationships, and even in places of fear. may we always feed on your love, for you are always present, always here.

September 2, 2012, Page 6

Faith and Formation Commission– Adult

The Apostles’ Creed addresses God as “THE FATHER ALMIGHTY, CREATOR OF HEAVEN AND EARTH.” Ancient peoples saw the father as the origin of everything because the father provided the “seed” which was seen as the source of life. The father wielded the authority that came with being the head of his household, yet at the same time he loved his wife and children. Jesus revealed God as His Father and ours as well, reminding us that God, like any good father, dis-ciplines his children because he loves them and wants only the best for them. God as Father suggests God has authority over us, but it also makes our relationship with God more personal and intimate because we are part of God’s family, truly loved as His beloved children. God as Almighty suggests God is omnipotent and His might is universal. There is no other force greater or more powerful. We also give God the title of “Creator” who creates a good and ordered world, something out of nothing. Heaven and earth are intended to refer to all that exists or creation in its entirety. Heaven and earth are distinguishable from each other, yet connected and related. The earth we know as the world in which we live and we typically think of heaven as God’s domain. Our ultimate goal as people of faith is to reside in eternal union with the only One who can satisfy our deepest longings.

C.A.R.E. CORNER

Catholicism Series coming to St. Thomas Fr. Robert Barron’s acclaimed video series, “Catholicism” is coming to St. Thomas! In just 10 sessions, in the Light-house on Wednesdays from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., travel through time and to more than 50 locations throughout the world as Fr. Barron presents what Brad Miner, Senior Editor of The Catholic Thing blog, calls, “simply the most vivid catechism ever created; a high-def, illustrated manuscript for the 21st century.” Discover the full meaning of the Faith in a visually compelling and engaging way! Learn what Catholics believe and why, while being immersed in the art, architecture, literature, music, and all the global treasures of the Catholic tradition. To reserve your place, contact Chari Rosales in the Adult Faith Formation Of-fice by September 3 at 630.355.8980 x138 or crosales@stapostle.org.

Calling All Artists... The Celebration of the Arts ministry of St. Thomas the Apostle invites

artists to participate in the 15th Annual Fine Art and Craft Fair. The event takes place Saturday and Sunday, November 3 and 4 in the Minis-try Center. The deadline for registration is September 30, however space is allocated on a “first come first serve” basis so don’t wait until the last minute to register. Call Don Castro at 630.717.9354 or Chari Rosales at 630.355.8980x138 for entry forms or more information.

Is it time to invest in your relationship?

A strong, loving and lifelong relationship doesn’t happen by chance. We can all learn how to make even the happiest marriage better. Once a month on Friday evening from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m., come to the Lighthouse for dinner, a video and private couple conversation on topics vital to everyday concerns such as the art of communication, resolving conflict, the impact of family, and love in action. Dates for 2012-13 are Sept. 14, Oct. 12, Nov. 9, Dec. 7, Jan. 18, Feb. 15, Mar. 8 and Apr. 19. Tables for two, candlelight and a relaxed atmosphere await you with your hosts, Rose and Steven Grumbine. So that all conversations remain private – there is no group sharing – registrations are available only to the first 12 couples who apply. The cost is just $70 per couple to cover meals and materials. Pick up a flier/registration form in the Gathering Area or register with Chari Rosales in the Adult Faith For-mation Office at 630.355.8980 x138 or crosales@stapostle.org. Sign up now – good things await you!

Page 7 — September 2, 2012

Go Out in the World: Acts of the Apostles, the sequel to the Gospel of Luke, will be the focus of the Thursday Adult Bible Studies. - Connect with Jesus’ first followers - Explore how apostles formed disciples and how disciples formed communities -Reflect on the meaning and practice of the Church in our day and time

Interactive sessions of prayer, study and discus-sion begin September 6 and continue thru May 2013. Choose the time most convenient for you: 9:15 to 11:15 a.m., OR 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. Child care is avail-able mornings. Make a year’s commitment, or drop in when you can. Bring a friend or come to be wel-comed by new ones. To be a part of this adventure, contact Chari Rosales in the Adult Faith Formation Office at 630.355.8980 x138 or crosales@stapostle.org.

Walking Humbly with God

- Poor exploited by wealthy - Infidelity and adultery rampant - Cheating scandals and political upheavals

Headlines from the Chicago Tribune? No, ex-cerpts from Old Testament prophets Amos, Hosea and Micah, pioneers in the transmission of God’s insistence on social justice – the focus of the upcom-ing Friday Bible Study. What God values and what we do are often at odds. How can we align the two? Fr. Richard Rohr, noted Franciscan teacher and au-thor writes, “If you understand Hebrew Scripture, you can truly understand Jesus.” Start with these three prophets and see how and why Jesus in his ministry was indeed the word of God in the flesh. Grow your understanding of Amos, Hosea and Micah through the Friday Morning Bible Study, which meets 9:15 to 11:00 a.m. from September 14, 2012 thru May 2013. An orientation for new partici-pants with facilitator Audrey Easton will be held at 9:15 a.m. on September 7. To register, or for more information, contact Chari Rosales in the Adult Faith Formation Office at 630.355.8980 x138 or crosales@stapostle.org. All are welcome!

Spread the Word Scripture Study at St. Thomas

James

Did you know that it was the law of the Jewish peo-ple to provide for the poor and the widows? James’ letter shows that the early Christian Community believed that Jesus called them to do the same. Do you participate in Social Justice as an essential part of your faith today?

Dance lessons coming! “Shake it up, baby!” Long-time, experienced dance instructor Diana Giarusso will lead couples, both beginner and experienced dancers, through swing, salsa, rhumba, fox trot, cha cha, waltz and tango in four Thursday sessions, September 27 through October 18, from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. in the St. Thomas Gym. Cost is $20 per couple per session. All that’s required is a sense of fun and adven-ture! Register by September 24 with Chari Rosales in the Adult Faith Formation Office at 630.355.8980 x138 or crosales@stapostle.org.

Soul Searchers St. Thomas Soul Searchers meets once a month to explore and discover truths in Simone Weil’s Waiting for God. Weil was a philosopher, political activist, and agnostic turned Christian mystic who died in 1938. This col-lection of her letters and essays offers her non-traditional views of Christianity and is considered a classic to in-form future generations. The book is published by HarperCollins, 2001 and is available at Barnes and Noble and several on-line sites. This month’s reading: Introduction and Letter I. The next meeting of Soul Searchers is Saturday, September 8 from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. in the Rectory Base-ment. Contact Mary Maloney with questions at 630.355.8980. Come whenever your schedule allows and enjoy a thought provoking experience. All are welcome to attend this monthly discussion group.

September 2, 2012, Page 8

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

Question of the Week...

What rules does your family have that are loving of others?

Faith and Formation Commission– Youth

Did you know St. Thomas has a nursery?

See page 13 for details!

Orientation for New Families to St. Thomas’ Religious Education Program (Pre-K – 8) If you missed the August 28 orientation, there is another opportunity!

St. Thomas Gathering Area Wed, Sept 5: 9:30 – 10:00 am or 2:00 – 2:30 pm

Learn: • How to get the most out of the Religious

Education program • Directions to school, parking procedures and

which doors to use • How to use the calendar • About special events

RSVP helpful: Patti Dougherty 630.355.8980 ext. 109 or pdougherty@stapostle.org Children are welcome. Check out the St. Thomas website for more information www.stapostle.org For Families with Special Needs Sometimes the sights and sounds at Mass is over-whelming for those with sensory challenges. The con-ference room, next to the St. Thomas Nursery, and across from the Faith Formation Office, can serve as a Quiet Space for parents to bring children who need a short break during Mass. This small space can only accommodate one family at a time attending to a child. Families are encouraged to rejoin the assembly when their child has had the opportunity to regulate him/her self. Copies of “My Picture Missal” are available for on Sundays during the 9:30 and 11:15 masses and are located at the Greeter Desk in the Gathering Area. Please check in the booklet right after mass so others may borrow it. This booklet uses visuals (similar to Boardmaker) to help a child follow the order of the Mass. It is small and colorful, with basic captions in-structing “sit”, “stand”, “sing”, etc. Parents will find this tool useful in allowing children with special needs to be engaged and participate during the Mass. All are truly welcome at St. Thomas the Apostle. If there are other ways to better support your family’s needs, please contact the Faith Formation Office at 630.305.6318 or the Parish Office at 630.355.8980.

Liturgy of the Word with Children Liturgy of the Word is for children 4 years old (and able to attend on their own) through Grade 3. This begins September 23 until April 21 except around Christmas and Easter. This will be offered for children during the 9:30 and 11:15 Masses. Children begin mass with their parents until they are invited by the Priest to attend their own ‘Liturgy of the Word.” They leave just before the assembly starts the Readings and return after the Prayers of the Faithful. They go into meeting rooms in the Ministry Center. There is no registration and children of the above ages may attend either mass. Contact Patti Dougherty if interested in helping or with any questions at 630.355.8980 ext. 109 or pdougherty@stapostle.org.

Page 9 — September 2, 2012

Thank You Middle Schoolers To middle school students who helped with the parish picnic last weekend, THANK YOU SO MUCH! Whether you helped with setting up, selling drinks, the puppet show, or cleaning up, your willing-ness to serve in that way helped to make the picnic a wonderful success. And, you helped to raise almost $100 to be put towards service projects and middle school mission trips. Way to go! Sign-up for Freshman Small Groups A new component to high school faith formation this year is Freshman Small Groups. These groups meet four to five times throughout the course of the year beginning with the Small Group Kick-off on September 30. The process for choosing a small group will be available on-line, beginning September 5. Watch for an email with more details. Small Group Leaders Needed Adult small group leaders are needed for high school faith sharing groups. The first meeting for high school faith sharing groups is scheduled for Sun-day, September 30. The groups meet four to five times through the course of the year. If you are inter-ested in ministering in this way, contact Brett Adams at badams@stapostle.org or 630.355.8980, x117.

Youth Ministry Corner Ryan Dowd is the Executive Director of Hesed House. In a recent Hesed House mailing, he tells of a high school experience where a classmate was being bullied. He shares the following:

“What happened next would be a defining moment of my life. All I needed to do to let Jeremy know he was not alone was to stand by him. All I needed to do to let Mike know that he couldn’t go around dehumanizing others was to stand my ground…and accept the conse-quences. I looked Mike right in the eye. For a tense moment we were locked in a dual of wills. Then I said ‘nothing’ and walked away. I remember every detail of that mo-ment like it happened this morning. It was my first act of total moral cowardice. It was the first time I was completely ashamed of myself. There are moments—almost always unanticipated—when you will be challenged to actually be the person you want to be. Sometimes you will pass the test of your own character and sometimes you will fail. The failures are important—perhaps more important—but only if you let them wound you. If you allow yourself to be wounded—if you accept the pain that accompa-nies abandoning your most cherished values—then a few things happen: you reaffirm your commitment to being a person of integrity, you sharpen your awareness of the times when your integrity will be tested, and you strengthen your determination to pass the next test. I don’t know that I started working at Hesed House because of my 16-year-old gym class failing, but I do hope that I have done my job differently because of it..”

Perhaps you find yourself reflecting on similar situations in your own life. Whether your tests of char-acter come in school, in the workplace, at soccer prac-tice, or in a conversation with neighbors, may we strive to be open to the lessons that they teach us.

Blessings,

Peggy

Middle School — Important Dates

Tuesday, Sept 4, 7 pm, Middle School Catechists Meeting Monday, Sept 10, Middle School Monday RE classes begin at All Saints Saturday, Sept 15, Middle School Saturday RE classes begin at All Saints

Life Retreat: September 7-9 Are you looking for a way to strengthen your relationship with the Lord? Consider attending the Life Retreat here at St. Thomas. This retreat experience begins Friday, September 7, at 6:00 p,m. and concludes Sunday, September 9, after the 11:15 mass. The Life Retreat is run by teens for teens. You can expect a relaxing weekend where God will be present everywhere. Why not come and have a great time? Permission slips are outside Brett’s office. For more information, contact Brett Adams at badams@stapostle.org or 630.355.8980, Ext. 117.

September 2, 2012, Page 10

Service Commission—Outreach & Social Justice Labor Day Statement 2012 Placing Work and Workers at the Center of Economic Life The annual Labor Day Statement has been issued by Bishop Stephen E. Blaire, Chairman of the USCCB (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops) Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development. This year’s statement emphasizes that respect for workers is key to a renewed economy. It goes on to say: “In this time of economic turmoil and uncertainty, we need to reflect on the moral and human dimensions of too much poverty and not enough work. We are called to work together — business, labor, and government — to build a productive economy that offers opportunity, creates jobs, generates growth, protects the dignity of working peo-ple, respects the family, and promotes genuine human development.” The entire statement can be found on the St. Thomas website (www.stapostle.org).

Haiti Weekend September 15-16 St. Thomas’ annual Haiti Weekend is coming September 15 through 16. St. Thomas has been “twinning” with Ste. Marie-Madeleine for nearly 14 years and much has happened over that period, both in Naperville and Duchity. St. Thomas has been striving to live the Twinning Mission statement:

To nurture our ongoing reciprocal relationship between the peoples of St. Thomas and Ste. Marie-Madeleine, sharing our lives, talents, resources and prayers, resulting in spiritual growth and justice.

Recently, St. Thomas “updated” the twinning model to encourage more leadership in the Ste. Marie-Madeleine and Duchity communities, leading to more self-sustainability in the partnered areas. This updated philosophy was developed in meetings with the new Ste. Marie-Madeleine Pastor, Father Mario, when he visited Naperville. Both parishes had inde-pendently come to this thought. This Haiti Weekend will again focus on healthcare and education activities, highlighting what has hap-pened and what is visioned going forward under the new philosophy. As has been the practice, there will be a second collection to benefit healthcare and edu-cation. This is the only second collection that is taken annually to benefit twinning. The Sponsor-a-Child program, that benefits the three schools assisted by St. Thomas, will kick off during Haiti Weekend.

Jobs Ministry Thank You Jim Breen asked me to express how much the St. Thomas the Apostle (STA) networking group means to me. The day after I lost my job, I attended my first STA group. There was a positive air to the room that drew me in. The facilitator was Ken Karp. Even though everyone in the room was looking for work, there was great energy and enthusiasm. We all sat in the same boat of unemployment, but as long as we all pulled together, that boat would move forward. I saw fight-ers. Those who got punched by life and punched right back. STA was always my fa-vorite group...by far. Thanks for hosting it and giving hope to those looking for work. Rob

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“Peacemaking is not an optional commitment. It is a requirement of our faith.” -- The Challenge of Peace: God’s Promise and Our Response, U. S. Catholic Bishops, 1983.

New Pax Christi Facilitator The St. Thomas Pax Christi Ministry has a new facilitator. Nancy Oetter is a St. Thomas parishioner who is very active in Pax Christi Illinois (Region Co-Coordinator), as well as Pax Christi Servants (a local area Pax Christi group). Her leadership role is much appreciated. The next Pax Christi Servants meeting is Sunday, September 9 at 6:30 p.m. It will be held at Nancy’s home (3831 Relstar Ct., Naperville). Please contact Nancy if you plan to attend (630.904.3859, nloetter@comcast.net). Pax Christi USA is a national Catholic peace and justice movement reaching over one half-million U.S. Catholics. Pax Christi USA strives to create a world that reflects the Peace of Christ by exploring, articulating, and witnessing to the call of Christian nonviolence. Further information can be gotten at the PC USA website: www.paxchristiusa.org.

Harvest Sunday Planning Committee Help Needed This year’s Harvest Sunday is November 4. It will again be a St. Thomas family oriented event. A few people are needed to help with the planning for the event. Harvest Sunday is a neighborhood and local store food collection, that last year yielded 3,275 bags of food that were shared between the St. Thomas Care Pantry, St. Nicholas pantry, and the Sisters of Notre Dame pantry. Over 500 volunteers participated. It is one of the major service projects for middle and high school youth. It is jointly organized by the Middle School and High School Office and the Outreach and Social Justice Office. If you can volunteer for the planning team or have questions, contact Mike Ryder 630.355.8980, mryder@stapostle.org)

Hike for Hesed (8th Annual) September 22 Registration 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Hike begins at 8:30 AM (2.6 miles roundtrip) Walk alone or build a hike team with co-workers, family, friends! Hike team forms are available in the Gathering Area. Over 400 men, women, and children spend each night at Hesed House. Walk to help them get out of homelessness! The Hike starts at Hesed House - 680 S River St, Aurora - and winds along the walk path of the Fox River to the Montgomery Mill Street Bridge. Food and refreshments provided following the hike For information, call 630.897.2156 x 542

Rachel Vineyard Weekend Retreat Post abortive women and men are encouraged to at-tend the Rachel Vineyard Weekend Retreats held twice yearly at the St. Charles Borromeo Pastoral Center. The next scheduled retreat is being held, Fri-day, September 7 - Sunday, September 9, 2012, be-ginning Friday evening at 6:00 PM and continuing through Sunday early afternoon. Contact Kay at 1-866-99-4-GIVE (4483) for additional informa-tion. Registration brochures are available at http://www.dioceseofjoliet.org/life/documents/RachelVineyardBrochure.pdf

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Pastoral Care To all St. Thomas Visitors and Parishioners: Health Ministry nurse volunteers are available after the 4:30 pm Saturday Mass and the 8:00 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 11:15 am Sunday Masses next weekend for Blood Pressure Screening and Education. The screening site is the Deacon’s office, the first office left as you exit the Church (West Wing). All are welcome — participants who are blood pressure curious, and those who are known hyperten-sive. Call you Parish Nurses 630.355.8980 Felicia x 104 or Rose x 140, with questions, concerns or to schedule another time.

Counseling Service: Call Samaritan Interfaith 357-2456 or

Jan Olah, Pastoral Care 355-8980 x 124

In the Hospital or Homebound?

Call the parish office 355-8980 or the Pastoral Care Office x 124 and

one of our parish nurses or ministers of care will visit, bring Eucharist and prayer.

St. Thomas Hosts Successful Parish Picnic God’s timeline is not necessarily ours. Most of the summer during the drought, we hoped and prayed for rain. Our picnic committee valiantly met several times during the drought and planned our picnic to be held in the sun and heat typical of late August. Dodge ball and the popular egg toss were to be held outdoors along with the entertainment, food and beverages. On Saturday, we set up some of the canopies intended to block out some of the sun’s rays. Although the weather forecasters predicted scattered afternoon showers, we hoped they were wrong. Alas, at 8:30 a.m. when the computer monitors displayed a two-inch wide area from Canada to Arkansas of dark green heading north-east our way, we made a decision to move the picnic indoors. Evaristo, assisted by volunteers, moved tables and chairs back into the building toward their new destination. A sense of excitement was felt. We had to move quickly to get everything ready before people came in. We wondered, “Could we do it?” Signs and tables needed to be relocated. Our volunteers reacted without hesita-tion to pitch in. Suddenly Mass let out and the hallway was crowded. The picnic had officially started! Before I knew it, it was 12:30 and Shaun Hayes, the Chalkman came onstage. In less than 20 minutes a gor-geous image was made which will be kept by the parish. Shaun told us of his amazing transformation, because of Happy Meal girl. It’s amazing how one person can make a difference. Here at St. Thomas the Apostle, we are blessed to have so many people willing and able to help make a dif-ference. Special thanks go out to all of our parishioners, sponsors and volunteers who helped make the event possible. Although each volunteer was given a bottle of water or a Dilly bar as a thank you, I think the most re-warding gratitude came from the excitement and smiles of the children winning games in the Children’s Game room, the Cake Walk, Bingo, the Piñata or Minute to Win It. The joy on the children’s faces was an appropriate thank you. I can just imagine God smiling down on us, saying I answered your prayer for rain and your prayer for a successful picnic.

Submitted by Picnic Co Chair Mary Wright

Outstanding Bingo Prizes Thank you to all the parishioners and sponsors who were so generous in supplying bingo prizes and items for raffle baskets. Twenty raffle baskets were assembled and still had many, many prizes for all ages. The tables were filled all afternoon with families who enjoyed playing Bingo together. It was wonderful to see the children play and be excited when they won. Thanks for all the books and toys donated for the children prizes, and the variety of items for adults. The leftover prizes were donated to St. Vincent DePaul. If you were unable to attend this year, we hope you are able to come next year and that again you’d give your gently used items to the St. Thomas Picnic Committee. (See next page for list of sponsors)

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Stewardship Commission Last Weekend’s stewardship of financial gifts...

Weekly Sunday Offertory August 26, 2012 Sunday Collection Offering 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

$20,524 $23,899 $2,381

$46,804

$299,970 $33,330

$330,102 ($30,132)

$1,904,992 $1,605,022

Did you know St. Thomas has a Sunday Nursery? Please come and check out St. Thomas’ Sunday Nursery held during the 9:30 and 11:15 masses. The nursery is located off the hall by Ministry Center Entrance and we wel-come children of walking age through the age of three. At age four, children may be-gin attending the Liturgy of the Word ses-sions offered during these two mass times. Parents are encouraged to be a part of our nursery schedule but need to complete Di-ocesan requirements before helping. Teen volunteers are welcomed as well. Information of these requirements as well as registration forms, are available on the nurs-ery door. There is also the option of paying a fee of $3.00 per child per Sunday. The nursery is open after Labor Day until Me-morial Day and is closed on some holy days. For more information, please contact Nursery Facilitator, Ombretta Schutz, 630.375.0516, brettaschutz@yahoo.com or call the Faith Formation Office at church 630.305.6318.

JOB POSTING DIOCESE OF JOLIET

The Diocese of Joliet is seeking to fill a position as an Ad-ministrative Assistant /Secretary to the Auxiliary Bishop and Vicar General. This individual will carry out the administra-tive and secretarial duties required by the Office of the Bishop and serve as personal secretary to the Auxiliary Bishop and Diocesan Bishops’ Staff (Executive Assistant to the Bishop and Vicar for Priests). Assists the Diocesan Bishop, Auxiliary Bishop, and Diocesan Bishops’ Staff as requested. College or Business school education pre-ferred, ability to maintain confidentiality is required. Must have over five years previous Administrative/Secretarial experience working on an executive level and a solid work-ing experience with computer programs such as Microsoft Word (including Mail Merge), Outlook, Excel, Explorer, Powerpoint, Access, etc. Must have advanced knowledge of proper telephone skills and etiquette. Must be a self-starter with the ability to work independently and as a team player. Must be able to multi-task, be flexible and capable of handling a variety of on-going projects at the same time. Must be professional, discreet and understand the high level of confidentiality of the position; and be a practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church. To see a com-plete job description please go to www.dioceseofjoliet.org. Interested applicants meeting the necessary qualifications must email a cover letter, resume and salary requirement to humanresources@dioceseofjoliet.org.

A special thanks for donations from these sponsors for our St. Thomas Parish Picnic:

AMC Cantera Theater, I-88 & Winfield Rd., Warrenville Anderson’s Bookstore, 123 West Jefferson, Naperville Casey’s Foods, 124 West Gartner Road Naperville Colonial Café, 8 West Gartner Road, Naperville Winfield Dairy Queen, 27w223 Geneva Rd, Winfield DeEtta’s Bakery, http://deettasbakery.com/ 630.217.8395 Giordano’s of Naperville, 119 S. Main Street, Naperville Great Clips, 1552 North Aurora Road, Naperville Haagen-Dazs, 30 West Jefferson Avenue Naperville Half Price Books, 2867 95th Street Naperville McDonald’s, 516 River Road, Naperville Moonlake Landscaping 612 Broadway St. Aurora, IL 60505 moonlakelandscaping.com Naperville Running Co., 34 West Jefferson, Naperville Sam's Club, 808 Illinois 59, Naperville St. Nicholas Parish, Aurora Texas Roadhouse North Aurora Ave. Naperville The UPS Store, 2948 Kirk Road - Suite 106, Aurora Twist of Faith, ww.reverbnation.com/thetwistoffaithband

Please support our sponsors in return!

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Administration Commission St. Thomas the Apostle JOBS MINISTRY

SEPTEMBER KEYNOTE SPEAKER Wednesday, Sept 26, at 7:00 pm:

"Getting and Retaining Employee Referrals" Workshop Robert Rosell will demonstrate the importance of having employee referrals as part of your current and future employment searches. We will first discuss how to find employee referrals using two virtually unknown free LinkedIn features, and then go over common ele-ments to have in an introduction message to an em-ployee referral. Finally, we will talk about what to say when you meet a potential Employee Referral. Robert Rosell's professional career has spanned more than twenty years across two careers. The first is IT where he went the route from programming through Senior Systems Analyst across multiple technologies and platforms. When Robert joined Motorola in 2000, he moved into quality building Quality Management Systems (QMSs) from scratch for new technologies. Shortly after Robert got laid off in 2009, he joined IL workNet and became a Volunteer Team Leader there. He then helped contribute to the development and continual improvement regarding all content associated with the IL workNet program. While continuing to work IL workNet, Robert de-veloped a new workshop called "Getting and Retaining Employee Referrals" with a networking logo of Social Media Emotional Intelligence (SMEI). He then found his way back to IT with a focus on health care at Bax-ter in October by networking with his current manager more than one year ago. Robert did this by using the ER technique after previously landing earlier this year at Electromotive Diesel (EMD) (March 2010) using the same method. As he was leaving EMD to go to Baxter, Bob got two of his former managers at Mo-torola hired at EMD through being a referral for them. Fri, Sep 7, 9:30 am: Pat Bayers, multi-million dollar sales all-star, Big Ten college referee, former two-time All American and first American college player recruited for the Italian Football League, will share four critical steps to get you started and keep you going in your job search. He'll also share 10 additional steps to stand out in the crowd and land your next career position. All of this and the excite-ment and passion he brings to the "game" in his presentation "Hire Ability and Higher Ability".

Fri, Sept 14, 9:30 am: Jan Marino presents "Take Back Your Career". Discover how the job market has changed. Learn how to play the new career game. Who should be on your team? What are the new winning plays? Jan is a per-sonal career management and personal branding expert,

THE WEEK AHEAD... Tuesday, Sept. 4 7:00—9:00 p.m. Catechist Meeting Pre K-5, Ministry Center 7:00—9:00 p.m. Charismatic Prayer Group, Lounge 7:00—9:00 p.m. Adult Basketball, Gym 7:00—9:00 p.m. Voices of Faith, Church

Wednesday, Sept. 5 9:30—10:00 a.m & 2:00—2:30 p.m. Orientation for new R. E. Families, Gathering Area 6:30—9:30 p.m. Catholicism, Lighthouse 7:00—9:00 p.m. St. Vincent de Paul, Senior Center

Thursday, Sept. 6 9:15—11:15 a.m. Spread the Word Bible Study, Senior Center 4:!5—5:15 p.m. Jammers, Church 5:30—8:30 pm Retreat Team Leaders, Youth Center 6:00—7:00 p.m. Journey Praise, Church 7:00—9:30 p.m. Jubilate Rehearsal, Church 7:30—9:00 p.m. Spread the Word Bible Study, Senior Center

Friday, Sept. 7 9:00—1:00 p.m. Bible Study, Senior Center 9:15 am-12:00 p.m. Jobs Ministry, Gym 6:00 pm Youth Retreat, Ministry Center

Saturday, Sept. 8 All day & night Youth Retreat, Ministry Center 9:00—10:30 a.m. Men’s Saturday Sharing, Cana 9:15—10:30 a.m. Soul Searchers, Rectory Basement 5:30—6:00 p.m. Blood Pressure Screenings, Deacon’s Office

Sunday, Sept. 9 7:30—10:30 a.m. RCIA, Rectory Basement 9:00am-1:00 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening, Deacon’s Office After 11:15 am Mass Youth Retreat Ends

speaker, author and founder of High Gain Companies, Inc. Her latest book is ”Take Back Your Career”.

Fri, Sep 21, 9:30 am: Dee Reinhardt presents "Market Your-self in the Digital Age". Learn little-known ways to present yourself to a potential employer. Strange but true methods that have gained people a new position include: video, still image, social media, and web. We will cover new search options and other valuable resources. For the past several years, Dee Reinhardt has been the Marketing Coordinator for the work-force development agency of Kane County, KCDEE.

Wed, Sept 26, 7 pm: Speaker Night: Robert Rosell will pre-sent "Getting and Retaining Employee Referrals". (See feature article above) 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 enough handbills to pass out to 20 fellow networkers. Wednesday night is speaker only, no formal networking. Contact Bob Hronek <rhronek@sbcglobal.net>; or Ben Willingham <Benwillingham11@gmail.com>; for more info.

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