Page

“Just as Moses li ed up the serpent in the desert, so must the

Son of Man be li ed up, so that everyone who

believes in him may have eternal life.”

Jn 3:14-15

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Mission Statement : The Roman Catholic Saint Thomas More Parish Family welcomes and invites every person to join us on our journey in faith and celebration. With the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and through Sacred Scripture and Tradition, we proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all, especially in loving service to those in need.

As part of the Universal Church, we affirm the dignity of every person. All this we do to give glory and honor to God.

Pastoral Staff Pastor ............................. Reverend Michael J. Yadron, KHS; Ext. 312 myadron@stm-church.com Associate Pastor ............................... Reverend Ted J. Mauch; Ext. 314 tmauch@stm-church.com Senior Deacon............................................ Dr. Napoleon Tabion, OFS Deacons ................................................................ David Kapala, KHS ............................................................................ Joseph Stodola, KHS ......................................................................... Daniel Zurawski, KHS Director of Finance ........................................ Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Pastoral Care Coordinator .......................... Madeleine Moya; Ext. 313 Director of Music ......................................... Angie Lorandos; Ext. 338 Director of Religious Education .................... Emily Hackett; Ext. 332

Parish Office Staff Hours: Mon-Friday 8:00 am-8:00 pm • Saturday 8:00 am-4:00 pm Web Site .......................................................... www.stm-church.com Email address .................................. parish.office@stm-church.com Email address for bulletin ...................... bulletin@stm-church.com Office Phone………. 836-8610 Office Fax .................... 836-9185 Bulletin Editor ..................................................... Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309 Daytime Receptionist ........................................ Susan Strain; Ext. 310 Evening Receptionist .................................... Veronica Brtos; Ext. 310 Building Maintenance…………………………Dale Slosser 836-8610

Pastoral Ministries Environment & Art ............................................. Jean Bados 836-8610 Eucharistic Ministers ................................... Carole Mackey 808-9732 Hospitality/Greeters ................................... Chris Shearman 923-1419 Lectors ...................................................... William McDunn 922-9459 Nursery .................................................. Kaaren A. Mashura 836-5079 St. Vincent de Paul ................................. Michael Martinelli 836-8610 Vocations Committee ...................................... Mary Kochis 322-7262

2014-2015 Pastoral Council Members Leslie Dernulc.................................................................. Joe Dubczak Christi Kordeck ......................................................... Michael Korfiatis Mary Kretz ................................................................... Jim Landowski Paul Liszewski, Chairperson ............................................ Bill McDunn Jesse Montenegro ..............................................................Joe O’Brien Cindy Thompson ......................................................... Ruth Yothment

St. Thomas More School Pre-School through 8th Grade

Office Hours: Monday– Friday ~ 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Web Site ........................................................... www.stm-school.com School Phone ......... 836-9151 School Fax .......................... 836-0982 President ........................................................ Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Principal ................................................ Chet Nordyke, KHS; Ext. 328 Assistant Principal ......................................... Cynthia Block; Ext. 328 School Administrative Assistant……….. Jennifer Gonzalez; Ext. 328 School Reception & Office Associate………. Sandra Steele; Ext. 329 Home & School Association .................. Kris Miller; (312) 909-8156 Parish & School Offices Associate .............. Mary Jo Biscan; Ext. 311 Parish & School Offices Associate ................. Pam Wadycki; Ext. 339 School Admissions .............................................. Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309

Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue ~ Munster, IN 46321

Phone ..................................................................................... 836-2660 Fax ......................................................................................... 836-2655

St. Thomas More Religious Education Kindergarten through 8th Grade

Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Friday — 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday & Thursday — 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Religious Education Phone ........................................................... 836-8610 Director .................................................................. Emily Hackett; Ext. 332 Administrative Assistant ...................................... Carolyn McGill; Ext. 336 Grades K through 8 ~ Wednesday or Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Pastoral Commissions Chairpersons Formation/Education ........................................................... Barbara Topete Parish Life ........................................................................ Elaine Herrmann Peace & Social Justice ............................................................. Mary Silvasi Spirituality & Worship....................................................... Kaaren Mashura Stewardship ........................................................................... Noreen Bickel

Parish Organizations Altar & Rosary Society .................................... Kathleen Pagorek 972-0539 Blue Army ................................................... Rose Marie Malburg 836-8779 Boy Scouts ................................................................ Curt Anglin 902-5126 Career Networking Group…………………… Christine Spencer 836-8610 Circle of Prayer………………………………..Mary Jo Humpfer 836-5002 Cub Scouts .............................................................. Chris Bedenk 595-2470 Finance ................................................................ Barbara Shaver 838-9200 Gabriel Project ............................................... Carolyn Grskovich 836-8610 Garden Club ................................................................. Al Carollo 836-8268 Gifts of Love & Warmth……………………..Bernadine Nemeth 513-6544 Girl Scouts ............................................................................ Renee Whelan Holy Name Society ..................................................... Joe Adams 865-3566 Knights of Columbus ....................................... Richard Alvarado 614-3743 K of C Columbian Squires…………………........Ralph Konkoly 588-4559 Moms’ Group .......................................................... Ann Meduga 629-6531 Oblates……………………………………………...Denise Gard 836-9115 Respect Life ............................................................ Alice Wohler 836-5337 Senior Citizens ........................................................... Herb Cleve 670-2982 The Travelers Club…………………………………..Lois Quinn 836-7902 Ushers Club .................................................... ….Jim Marmalejo 836-1463 Venture Crew……………………………………....Fr. Ben Ross 322-4505

St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 8501 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN 46321

Sacramental Information Confessions Saturdays ............................................................ 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. First Friday .............................. 1/2 hour before the 6:30 a.m. Mass Baptisms .............................. First and Third Sundays at 1:00 p.m.

Parents must be registered parishioners and regularly attending at least six months before the Baptism. At least one of the godparents must be a practicing Catholic.

Pre Baptism Class ..................................... 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Parents must call the Parish Office to schedule class and/or Baptism. Marriage .............. Must be a registered, practicing member of the parish at least six months before beginning the six month preparation program for marriage. Communion calls and visits to Hospitals and Homebound: Call the Parish Office for Sacraments at hospital or at home.

New Parishioner Registration To make it as convenient as possible for you, new parishioners may

register at any time in the Parish Office.

Please remember St. Thomas More in your Will and Estate Planning

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Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross September 14, 2014

Saturday, September 20 5:30 p.m. Fr. Ted Mauch

Sunday, September 21 6:30 a.m. Fr. Ted Mauch 8:00 a.m. Fr. Ted Mauch 10:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 12:00 Noon Fr. Mike Yadron

SUNDAY, September 14 — Exaltation of the Cross 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am James Murphy by Peter Murphy 10:00 am Mary Peloza by Barbara Peloza 12:00 pm Intention of Joyce Rybicki by Children & Grandchildren

MONDAY, September 15 — Our Lady of Sorrows 6:30 am Raymond Mueller by Wife & Daughter 8:30 am Genevieve Juricic (Ann.) by Family

TUESDAY, September 16 6:30 am All Souls Day Intentions 8:30 am Kimberly Kloes by C.J. & Margaret Heneghan 10:00 am Mary O’Donnell by STM Altar & Rosary Society (MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 2)

WEDNESDAY, September 17 — St. Robert Bellarmine 6:30 am Ron Gaisor by Jim & Mona Callahan 8:30 am Phyllis Meyer (Ann.) by Marilyn & Ted Pajor

THURSDAY, September 18 6:30 am Marjorie Wenzel (Ann.) by Husband Dewey Wenzel 9:00 am John & Mary Pavcak by Jerry Pavcak

FRIDAY, September 19 6:30 am Robert Carollo (Ann.) by Al & Carol Carollo 8:30 am Walter V. Bracich by Samantha Bracich

SATURDAY, September 20 — Sts. Andrew Kim Tae-gon, Paul Chong Ha-sang and Companions 8:30 am Jack Georgas (Ann.) by Michael & Gail (Georgas) Bickel 2:00 pm Buehne/Falzone Nuptials 5:30 pm Patricia Swarthout by Evelyn Poston

SUNDAY, September 21 — Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am In Honor of St. Vincent de Paul by STM St. Vincent de Paul Members 10:00 am Barbara Jarvis by Husband Bill & Family 12:00 pm Dr. John Wadas, Jr. by John & Carrie Wadas & Family

SATURDAY, September 20 8:30 am L. Cabrelas, J. Olivencia 5:30 pm I. Scalzo, E., M. & T. Zabrecky, K. Paprocki

SUNDAY, September 21 6:30 am D. Dy, E. Korwek, S. O’Rourke 8:00 am A. Bilse, A. Korfiatis, N. Kunas, A. & M. Nahnsen 10:00 am C. & M. Osmulski, B. Sikora, D. Zuccarelli, M. Argamasilla 12:00 pm G. & T. O’Brien, N. Anglin

III — Benjamin Buehne & Rhiannon Falzone I — Brian Murzyn & Amanda Miles

Sacrificial Offerings

Thank you for your generosity and stewardship to our parish!

Adult $ 27,739.50 Loose $ 2,655.00 Children $ 136.07 TOTAL $ 30,530.57

September 7, 2014

Henry Surowiec • Joanne Darrington

Pastoral Care Ministry Home Communion —If you or a family member would like to

receive home Communion, contact Pastoral Care at (219) 836-8610, ext. 313.

Hospital Visits — In compliance with HIPAA legislation (privacy of patient information), hospitals do not notify our parish

about parishioner hospitalizations unless requested to do so by the patient or patient's family. If you or a family member are at

Munster Community Hospital and wish to receive hospital visits, please notify the Parish Office at (219) 836-8610.

Vocations Committee Religious life will always have a place in the Church, so long

as the Gospel remains a powerful, compelling force in the World. The mission of religious life is evangelization, helping one’s neighbor through actions and prayer to grow in holiness. It intensifies the Gospel message precisely and builds up the

whole people of God.

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Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross "And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the

Son of Man be lifted up." The first reading today refers to the story of the Israelites and the serpents. These venomous creatures were

biting and killing the people of Israel wandering in the desert. Moses begged God to save them from the affliction. God chose a strange

antidote to the poison: he told Moses to mount a bronze serpent on a pole. Those who looked at it survived.

In the Gospel reading, John refers to this historical event in the context of salvation. Then, the people of God were saved from

physical death by looking up. Now, we are saved from spiritual death in much the same way. Through the cross where Jesus was "lifted

up," God has given us an antidote to the poison of sin. The habits of selfishness that threaten to suffocate our souls can be overcome when we raise our eyes to this cross upon which Christ made the ultimate

act of selflessness. Today at Mass, many of us will sing the rousing hymn "Lift High the

Cross" and call to mind this "triumphant sign" that has come to be equivalent with Christianity itself. The cross is our symbol, our banner, and our hope. As Christians, we march behind it with

confidence and courage because through it, even the most fearsome of all human realities-sin and death-have been conquered. Now we

can enjoy the gift of eternal life. But, like the children of Israel wandering in the desert, we have to

participate in our own salvation. God desired that they actively "look" at the bronze seraph instead of passively being cured. So too, we must choose to actively embrace the cross of Christ by modeling

our lives after the generous, life-giving love of the Lord.

lease pray for the sick of our parish... c Joshua Alvarez

Margaret Amatulli Doris Aurelio Maria Aurelio

Irene Baker Antonio Belmonte

Michael Berry Michael Blazevich Laverne Blumka Michael Boston Cheryl Bostrom

Robert Boyle Stephany Burney

Dorothy Campbell James Campbell

Thomas Cak Al Carollo

Carol Carollo Janet Cattanach

Jacqueline Morrow Christian

Frank Coman Vincent Corsello

Mike Curtain Margaret Demkovich

Ann D’Orazio Lucille Detterline

Irene Dettmer Ann DeVoy

MaryPat Devoy Irene Dickey

Jeanine Doescher Alex Eiland

Sherlon Evans John Forde

Phyllis Garber Denise Gard

Andrea Garritano Margaret Geary

Dorothy Giannini Emily Gibson

Dorothy Gillespie Jacqueleen Gonzalez

Margaret Good Howard Gralewski

James Grunewald Amy Hayes

Eleanore Heggi Marie Henke

Evelyn Hennes Marisol Hernandez

Becky Hill Megan Homcho

Mary Jo Humpfer Steve Izzo

Dennis Jablonski Elizabeth Jacob Barbara Jamrose Stanley Jayjack

Rosemary Jerzak-Staszel Penny Jurkash Debbie Kaczka Robert Kalka

James Klein, Sr. Carol Keilman Janet Knight

Susan Kolodziej Miller Krizmanic

Jerome Kula Annika LeMonier Debbie LeMonier Richard LaVigne

Gene Leahy Mary Leahy

Jo Lisiniewicz Edward Liskiewicz Stanley Liskiewicz

Maria Lovell Charlene Madura Mary Manchak Brady Martin

Jenny Mendoza Faye Meny Sandi Merlo

Stephanie Mueller Olga Mihalo Andrew Moll Elissa Moll David Moll Jean Narvid

Donna Nichols

Steven Nowaczyk Valerie O’Donnell

Danny Ogren Emily Orosco

Christine Osmulski Johanna Petruch

Andrew Pieczyrak Elizabeth Pilones Sylvester Porras Timothy Ribble

Jackie Roach Burt Robinson Kristen Rubin Ann Sardella George Sauer Marie Schultz

Marianne Schwartz William Schwartz

Zachery Scriff James Secviar

Jim Seul Renee Shehan

Thomas Skarbek Nick Skinner

Lydia Skorupa Carolyn Smiley Deborah Stareck Florence Stevens Georgianne Suto

Celine Szczepaniak Carrie Szumelda

Barbara Szypczak Rose Terranova

Rose Theis Gerardo Trevino Kathie Trudgian Anthony Ubuane

Tony Vanden Heuvel Raymond Vanderbok

Julia Vrbanich Pam Wadycki

Adele Wall Don Woszczynski

Cecilia Ziegler Cody Ziemkowski

SUNDAY, September 14 Flue Shots in the Solar Room after all Masses Parish Picnic in the Gym from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.

MONDAY, September 15 Market Day Pick-Up from 5:00-6:00 p.m. in the Gym 7:00 pm Blue Army ~ Chapel 7:00 pm Schola ~Church 7:00 pm Holy Name Society ~ Solar Room

TUESDAY, September 16 9:15 am Eucharistic Adoration (until 6:30 p.m.) ~ Chapel 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations ~ Chapel 6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet ~ Chapel

WEDNESDAY, September 17 9:30 am Bible Study ~ Conference Room 4:30 pm Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 p.m.) 5:00 pm RCIC ~ Conference Room 6:00 pm Handbell Choir Practice ~ Church 7:00 pm Knights of Columbus Fourth Degree~Solar Room

THURSDAY, September 18 4:30 pm Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 p.m.) 6:30 pm Scripture Study ~ Conference Room 7:00 pm Career Networking Group ~ Weis Center 7:00 pm Parent Confirmation Meeting ~ Gym 7:00 pm All Seasons Chorale ~ Church

FRIDAY, September 19 9:00 am Gifts of Love & Warmth ~ Conference Room

SATURDAY, September 20 9:00 am Pastoral Council ~ Conference Room

SUNDAY, September 21 Blood Drive from 8:00 a.m.– Noon in the Gym 10:00 am Mass —Catechetical Sunday 6:00 pm Taizė Prayer Service ~ Church

Readings for Week of September 14 Sunday: Nm 21:4b-9/Phil 2:6-11/Jn 3:13-17 Monday: 1 Cor 11:17-26, 33/Jn 19:25-27 or Lk 2:33-35 Tuesday: 1 Cor 12:12-14, 27-31a/Lk 7:11-17 Wednesday: 1 Cor 12:31--13:13/Lk 7:31-35 Thursday: 1 Cor 15:1-11/Lk 7:36-50 Friday: 1 Cor 15:12-20/Lk 8:1-3 Saturday: 1 Cor 15:35-37, 42-49/Lk 8:4-15 Next Sunday: Is 55:6-9/Phil 1:20c-24, 27a/Mt 20:1-16a

You Did It For Me More than 1 million people have been displaced in Iraq since

January, and fear looms as ISIS has taken control of large swaths of the country. Christians and other minorities have been singled

out for attack. “It’s quite horrific,” says CRS’ Kris Ozar. “CRS is responding immediately to provide essential food and

non-food items to all internally displaced Iraqis. Many of them are taking refuge in churches, schools, parking lots.” To learn more, please visit CRS.org/you-did-it-for-me.

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The Pastor’s Page

PLEASE REMEMBER THEM Please pray for the priests and deacons who have served the Diocese of Gary so faithfully and whose anniversaries of death are this week:

September 17: Rev. Louis J. Ratajczak (1964)

ON THE LIGHTER SIDE Sign on restaurant window:

We offer three kinds of service: GOOD — CHEAP — FAST

You can pick any two Good service Cheap won’t be Fast Good service Fast won’t be Cheap Fast service Cheap won’t be Good

KNIGHTS — TIMES TWO This weekend is a rather exciting time for a number of our parishioners. There are two different celebrations of Knights taking place. The first celebration has been taking place throughout the entire weekend. On Friday, men from around the State of Indiana have gathered at the Radisson Hotel in Merrillville for a special Fourth Degree Exemplification of the Knights of Columbus. The Abraham Lincoln Assembly, our local Assembly, is celebrating it’s One Hundredth Anniversary this year. The Abraham Lincoln Assembly is the oldest Assembly in the State of Indiana. The Fourth Degree is the Patriotic Degree of the Knights of Columbus, and on a national level, it comprises roughly 10% of the membership of the Order. It has five major objectives. ▪ To promote and strengthen the patriotic spirit of the

civic community. ▪ To educate its members, and others, both in the

teachings of Holy Mother Church, and the history of our nation.

▪ To promote by example the highest type of citizenship so necessary for the preservation and perpetuation of Republican form of government, and its democratic institutions.

▪ To oppose dissemination and spread of doctrine dangerous to our form of government, and to the Divine law of faith and morality.

▪ To support by word and deed, the duly constituted authorities of local, state and national government, and to recognize excellence in public life.

The Fourth Degree, both collectively and individually, supports those religious, civic, and charitable causes which are designed to implement one or more of those five objectives. Congratulations to our many parishioners — as well as Fr. Ted J. Mauch — for receiving their Fourth Degree today. If you are interested in the Knights of Columbus, you may contact our council’s Grand Knight, Rich Alvarado. Last week, I wrote about the Equestrian Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre. Today, Sunday, September 14th, at the 10:00 a.m. Mass, four of our parishioners — Ron Bados, Jean Bados, Ruth Banas, and James Landowski — received their Pilgrim Shells for fulfilling their requirement to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The main purpose of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre is to support, spiritually and financially, the churches and religious institutions in the Holy Land and all the people who care for them. Please pray for peace in the Holy Land. If you are interested in the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, you may contact the area representative, Deacon Joe Stodola.

RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS The RCIA, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the normal avenue for people of other faiths or people who have never been baptized to enter the Catholic Church. The RCIA is also utilized for those who may have been baptized Catholic but who never completed their sacraments of initiation (Communion and Confirmation). If you, or someone you know, have never been baptized and you wish to become Catholic, consider attending one of two inquiry sessions — Tuesday, September 23rd or Tuesday, September 30th — at 7:00 p.m. in the Parish Conference Room. (Enter at the Parish Office.) You only need to attend one of those two evenings. People will be available to answer any question you may have about the program. Course books and a syllabus also will be available. Likewise, if you have been baptized as a Catholic and never had your other sacraments or if you have been baptized in another faith and wish to become Catholic, please attend one of the two inquiry sessions for more information and materials. RCIA begins in earnest Tuesday, October 7th and meets every Tuesday from 7:00 until 8:30 p.m. until a month after Easter. There is also a component of the RCIA — the RCIC — for children and teens who may need their sacraments. Please call the parish office for more information.

TAIZḖ PRAYER Taize Prayer will be next Sunday, September 21st at 6:00 p.m. in the church. This restful, contemplative prayer is a great way to center oneself and give God a chance to speak to your heart. We hope you can come.

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Welcome Back Religious Education students!

We look forward to a great year ahead!

Religious Education

Lectors & Greeters for the Week

Saturday, September 20 5:30 pm Mass

Julie Blanford & Joe Dubczak

Saturday, September 20 5:30 p.m. Mass

Main: Szala Family Chapel: Chuck & Chris

Shearman Sunday, September 21

6:30 am Mass Chapel: John & Frances Plisky

Sunday, September 21 6:30 am Mass

Jayne Gardner & Micki Richter

8:00 am Mass Jim Kaspar & Linda Stefanich

10:00 am Mass Kevin Connelly & Maryanne Topor

12:00 Noon Mass Christopher Balbo & Marilyn Pajor

8:00 am Mass Main: Paul & Jan Liszewski

Chapel: Margaret Gray Choir: Jack & Judy Mateja

10:00 am Mass

Main: Rich & Bev Lasky Chapel: Andrea Mazerik

12:00 pm Mass

Main: Tola & Regina Akinsanya Chapel: Susan Anglin

Choir: Cynthia & Sophia Becker

STM Youth Ministry Soccer Golf

Who: St. Thomas More Youth Ministry Where: Scherwood Golf

(located at 600 East Joliet Street in Schererville) When: Sunday, September 21st 1:30-3:30 p.m.

What to wear: Collared shirts & Docker-style shorts or pants are recommended

NO cleats • NO tank tops • NO short shorts How Much: $8 per person for 9 holes of Soccer Golf

For more information please contact Emily Hackett at ehackett@stm-school.com or (219)836-8610, ext. 332.

Bulletin Articles All bulletin articles must be submitted at least 2 weeks in advance to guarantee inclusion in the appropriate bulletin. This will be in

effect year-round. Thank you for your assistance.

St. Vincent De Paul Society Friends of the Poor Walk/Run

September 20, 2014 at Lemon Lake County Park Funds raised will help those in need with assistance of food,

rent or utilities. Contributions raised from this event are returned directly to our parish society to benefit those we serve.

Registration: 9:00-10:00 a.m. • Walk begins at 10:00 a.m. Lunch to follow.

Pick-up registration/waiver forms and pledge sheets in the Parish Office. These will be collected at the walk.

Late registrants are accepted.

SVDP Continues to Help Those in Our Community

The leaves will soon begin changing color as autumn is upon us. Let us all reflect in God’s wonder as we watch the colorful display and prepare for the upcoming holi-day season. As we continue to assist families in need

during the upcoming months, please consider a donation to our food pantry.

We are currently in need or anticipate the need of the following items:

Thank you so much for your ongoing generous support of SVDP!

Your help enables us to help others!

Cereal Canned Meat Canned Yams Stuffing Mix

Canned Pumpkin

Cake Mixes Frosting

Soup Crackers Jiffy Mix

Jell-O

Canned Fruit Cranberries

Ramen Noodles Laundry Soap

Bar Soap Toilet Paper

Holy Name Society Our next meeting:

Monday, September 15th at 7:00 p.m. in the Solar Room

Pray the Rosary with us at 7:00 p.m., followed by our regular meeting and refreshments. As always, new members are always

welcomed and encouraged to join our group. Hope to see you there!

Attention all men of the parish! Please join us for our annual Evening of Reflection

6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 at the Carmelite Monastery in Munster.

Please arrive at 6:00 p.m. for Mass. Dinner and a presentation will follow.

Our spiritual retreat leader will be Rev. Gerald Schweitzer. The Rosary & Benediction will conclude the evening.

The Society’s cost for this event is $14/person and we are requesting a “free will” donation to cover our expenses.

If you are interested in attending this meaningful event, please make a reservation by contacting Captain Joe Adams at

(219) 865-3566 or Captain John Jurkash at (219) 803-0667 no later than September 16th. We hope to see you there.

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St. Thomas More School September 14, 2014

Visioning Workshop Thank you to all who attended the STMS

Planning for a Bright Future!

On September 4th, over 100 St. Thomas More parishioners, school parents and alumni filled

the gym for the Visioning Workshop. This collaborative meeting enabled attendees to identify and address the many internal and

external factors effecting our school today and start a plan for the future, insuring the

continued success of our parish school for many, many years to come.

Led by School President, Noreen Bickel, attendees openly discussed a wide range of topics. This was the beginning step of our

year-long strategic planning and continuous improvement process.

The ideas and information generated at this workshop will be given to various

sub-committees for further analysis and discussion.

Thank you to all who participated. The future of St. Thomas More School is indeed bright!

Page 8

Music Ministry Additional parishioners are needed for the following

St. Thomas More musical groups:

Handbell Choir We are in need of three new Handbell Choir members in grades

5 through adult to join our Handbell Choirs for the fall. It is a very enjoyable, fulfilling ministry.

Handbell Choir members need to be available to practice on Wednesday evenings at 6:00 p.m. on a regular basis and to play

at Saturday 5:30 p.m. Masses, Christmas Eve Mass and occasional other Masses on the weekend.

You do not need to read music; we will teach you. Please consider joining this

valuable ministry. Call or email: Laura Javorka at 836-8610, ext. 306 or

ljavorka@stm-church.com.

Youth Chorale We are currently accepting registrations for the Youth Chorale. We need older

youth who are skilled at singing harmony, boys with changing voices to sing 3-part harmony and young, energetic choir

members looking for a challenge. The Chorale is open to all parishioners in grades two through high school. We sing twice a

month at the Saturday 5:30 p.m. Masses. Practices are from 4:00 – 5:30 p.m. on the days that we sing (prior to Mass).

We also sing for Christmas Eve 5:30 p.m. Mass. If you would like to share your singing talent with your parish, email Laura

Javorka at ljavorka@stm-church.com or call 836-8610, ext. 306 to register. Workshops for all choir members begin early in

September, so register soon.

Join us for our next meeting on Tuesday, September 23, 2014 7:00 p.m. in the Teachers’ Lounge. All are welcome to be a part of this

meaningful ministry for mothers & babies.

Gabriel Project

BNI Tailgate Party Alumni & friends are invited to Bishop Noll Institute’s annual

Homecoming Tailgate Party Friday, September 19th in the BNI Fieldhouse . following the Warriors’ football game against

Calumet High School. The football game begins at 7:00 p.m. Join us immediately after

the game for the postgame Tailgate Party which lasts until midnight.

Attendees must be 21 years or older to enter. Cost is $20 and includes food, drink and lots of fun.

No reservations are required. Individuals or businesses wishing to support the event with

$75 sponsorships can do so by contacting Julie Sandoval at (219) 932-9058, ext. 1005 or atjsandoval@bishopnoll.org. Bishop Noll is located at 1519 Hoffman Street, Hammond.

Diocesan Programs The Emmaus Program

This four week adult formation program is for ministers, parishioners, teachers and catechists.

Topic: “Reconciliation” Fr. Martin Dobrzynski, Pastor of St. Michael the Archangel

The program will focus on the public life of Jesus, who not only forgave sins, but also made plain the effect of forgiveness. He reintegrated forgiven sinners into the community of the People

of God. Our speaker will lead us through the importance of reconciliation and how it can be assisted by the Sacrament of

Reconciliation. Tuesdays & Thursdays —6:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Tuesday, October 7th • Thursday, October 9th

Tuesday, October 14th • Thursday, October 16th St. Michael’s, 1 West Wilhem Street Schererville.

Brochures with a reservation form can be found in the STM Parish Office. For further information, contact Anne Verbeke

at (219) 769-9292, ext. 280 or averbeke@dcgary.org.

Human Trafficing—“A Reality” Brunch The Lake County Right to Life committee is sponsoring

Human Trafficking—“A Reality” Brunch Thursday, October 9, 2014 at 10:30 a.m.

Our Lady of Consolation Vamos Hall 8303 Taft Street in Merrillville. Admission is $10 to the general public and free to

clergy and elected officials of all faiths. RSVP to (219) 838-1138.

The purpose of this event is to give a clear picture of what is happening, how if affects the entire community and what plan

of action is necessary to reduce human trafficking. Provided with the support & cooperation of the Sheriff’s

Department, Diocesan Office of Pro-Life Activities, Catholic Charities and churches & institutions in the area.

Leadership Symposium Saturday, October 4th at Our Lady of Consolation

Keynote Speaker” Robin Ryan, C.P. Respondent: Bishop Dale J. Melczek

Fr. Ryan will address Pope Francis’ writings and relate them to our role as leaders in parish and Diocesan life. Bishop Melczek will provide reflection and share with the group future ideas and challenges for those who will answer God’s call to be “church”. Register by September 30th by contacting the Office of Pastoral

Council, 9292 Broadway, Merrillville, IN 46410 with your name, address, city , zip code & phone number or by

emailing averbeke@dcgary.org, ,atorres@dcgary.org or www.dcgary.org.

Knights of Columbus Fish Fry Join the Monsignor Weis Knights on Friday, September 26th.

Fish Fry & Raffle from 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. in the STM School Cafeteria.

Proceeds will sponsor scholarships for STMS graduates who are attending Catholic High Schools, SVDP, Thanksgiving turkeys

to the needy, help to local Seminarians, Gabriel Project, Boy Scouts & Girl Scouts, Planting Possibilities and more.

Tickets at the door: $12 (Lake Perch/ Fried Shrimp or Combo), $10 (Beer Batter Cod) & $12 (Baked Cod). Children: $6.

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STM Career Networking Group 80% of Jobs are Unadvertised

82% of Jobs are found through Networking 15% Found through Search Firms • 10% Found through Want Ads

4% Create Their Own Jobs • 2% Blindly Send Resumes Thursday, September 18, 2014

7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Tina Barnes Manager of Recruitment Services

Franciscan Sisters of Chicago Service Corporation

Where: STM Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue • Munster, IN

When: The 3rd Thursday of Every Month Time: 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Email: STMCareerGroup@gmail.com Regular Meetings are Free! Open to All!

For those who are unemployed (in transition), new to the job market, employed but changing careers or those who can offer employment opportunities through their current

professional connections. Have your cover letter, resume or thank you

note critiqued by a professional.

Senior Citizens If you are a Senior in our parish family and you have not yet

joined us, we invite you to come and be a member of the Senior Citizen’s Ministry at St. Thomas More.

Meetings are held at 1:00 p.m. in the Kish Community Room, 10000 Calumet Avenue in Munster (unless otherwise noted). Annual dues of $10.00/year are due in September.

Upcoming Meetings:

Wednesday, September 17th Social Gathering &

St. Vincent De Paul Food Drive Please pay annual dues of $10.00.

Wednesday, October 1st Business Meeting

Guest Speaker: A Social Security Administration Representative

Wednesday, October 15th Day of Reflection Carmelite Monastery

9:00 a.m. Chapel Mass Guest Speaker with luncheon to follow.

Wednesday, November 5th Business Meeting

Guest Speaker: Gary Bonk, Attorney Speaking about Elder Law Counseling.

Wednesday, November 19th Social Gathering

Join us for our monthly luncheons, too! Locations vary & will be announced in the parish bulletin prior to

our lunch outing.

Questions? Would you like more information? Please feel free to contact one of our Senior Citizens officers:

President—Herb Cleve Vice-President—Char Mannix Secretary—Celine Szczepaniak

Treasurer—Dewey Wenzel

STM Travelers Club Historic Cedarburg, Wisconsin

October 16, 2014 from 7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Are you a history-buff who enjoys learning about the lives of

settlers who made their homes in the beautiful Midwest ? By visiting Cedarburg, WI we will see how settlers made their own woolen goods and witness the types of homes they built. Our trip will take us back in time to see how settlers lived and struggled under difficult circumstances. A history lesson not to

be missed! There are many interesting gift,

antique, art and other unusual shops throughout this

picturesque town with beautiful hills

surrounding it and a river through it.

We are hoping the trees will be in full color as an added bonus.

Plans are being made to have lunch in one of Cedarburg’s most interesting restaurants. This will give us time to enjoy our

refreshments and to discuss the sights of the day. Please watch the Sunday Bulletins for further details about the

trip, cost and other planned events. The cost will include transportation, lunch and all gratuities. As always, you may

sign up at the STM parish office (payment is due at sign-up to hold your reservation).

We invite you to join us for a beautiful and scenic visit to Cedarburg, WI. A perfect way to spend a beautiful fall day!

Respect Life Corner Join the Pro-Life Ministry at St. Michael the Archangel Church as

they present their annual fundraiser to assist the Knights of Columbus to purchase an ultrasound machine.

Smart Chicks & Old Bags Come and shop the lovely assortment of gently used

purses & jewelry.

Sunday, September 21st

1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. Auction at 2:30 p.m.

$5.00 Admission Covers Refreshments

St. Michael’s St. Patrick Hall • 1 Wilhelm Street in Schererville

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Wounded Healers Anyone grieving from the loss of a loved-one or friend is

encouraged to attend Wounded Healers. Separate sessions for those dealing with the loss of a spouse, parent, sibling or friend, child or

grandchild & separate groups for both adults and teens dealing with loss due to suicide. Meetings are Wednesday evenings at St. James Church in Highland from 7:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Non-denominational.

Meetings: September 10 & 24, October 8 & 22 & November 5th.

Polish Heritage Festival Today, September 14th at the International Friendship Gardens,

2055 E. Hwy 12, Michigan City, IN from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Folk dancers at 12:30 & 3:00 p.m. Polka music by the EZ Tones

from 1:00-4:00 p.m. Polish food & bakery items for sale.

“Raise a Glass” Fundraiser Comfort Keepers & Arden Courts are hosting “Raise a Glass!” on Thursday, September 18th, 6:00-9:00 p.m. at Centennial Park in

Munster. Wine tasting & dinner, raffle & silent auction. Music by vocalist Peter Oprisko. Donation is $50/person. Call Debbie at (219)

838-0808 to reserve. Benefits Alzheimer’s/Dementia Services.

Crazy Bunco St. Catherine of Siena, 6525 Kentucky Avenue in Hammond is

sponsoring a Crazy Bunco on Sunday, September 21st beginning at 1:30 p.m. Food will be served at 2:00 p.m. and the game starts at

3:00 p.m. Tickets are $12 per person. For more information, please call Donna at (219) 844-8280.

Rummage Sale in Glenwood, IL The St. John’s Women’s Club will hold a Rummage Sale on

Thursday, September 18th & Friday, September 19th from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Saturday, September 20th from 9:00 a.m. to Noon at the St. John Social Center, 301 South Cottage Grove Avenue in

Glenwood, IL. Household items, electronics, jewelry , toys, holiday decorations and other treasures at very low prices.

No clothing. To donate, or to learn more: Judy at (708) 758-6276.

Rummage, Bake & Pierogi Sale St. James in Highland is holding a Rummage, Bake & Pierogi Sale

on Friday, September 26th from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Saturday, September 27th from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ($1/bag for

clothes/half-price sale on all else). Helen at (219) 924-5783.

Fall Harvest Craft Festival Griffith Boy Scout Troop 264 will be hosting their annual Fall

Harvest Craft Fair on Saturday, September 27th from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. and Sunday, September 28th from

10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. in Griffith Central Park, 698 N. Broad Street in Griffith. Beautiful hand-crafted items, great lunch

menu &live music! Free admission & parking!

Bethany Retreat House Autumn Tea Bring your friends for an afternoon of “tea time” including

delicacies, raffles and more to benefit Bethany Retreat House in East Chicago on Sunday, September 28, 2014 from 2:00 until

4:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Social Hall, 7128 Arizona Avenue in Hammond. Reservations are $30/person

and can be made at Bethany Retreat House: bethanyrh@sbcgl.

Las Vegas Night St. James Parish, corner of 45th and Kennedy in Highland, is sponsoring a Las Vegas Night on Saturday, October 4th from 6:10 p.m. until 12:00 Midnight featuring Black Jack, Roulette,

Beat-the-Dealer Dice, Money Wheel, Live Poker and more. $10 donation includes all food and beverages. Must be 21 to attend.

For more information, please call (219) 718-3787.

Free Spaghetti Dinner & Clothing Giveaway All persons in need of food and/or clothing are invited to a free

Spaghetti Dinner & clothing giveaway on Saturday, October 11th from 10:30 a.m.to 3:00 p.m. at the Hammond Civic

Center, 5825 Sohl Avenue in Hammond. Sponsored by The Girl Scouts of the Calumet Area, local churches and STM

parishioner Lucy Perz. To donate non-perishable food items or clothing or to volunteer, please contact Lucy at (219) 838-6602

or (219) 381-4670. Volunteers must arrive by 8:00 a.m.

Homemade Pierogi St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Church, corner of Ridge &

White Oak in Munster, is offering its weekly Pierogi Sale. All orders must be received prior to Thursday of the pick-up week. Pick-up is on Friday afternoons from Noon to 4:00 p.m. at the

church. To order, call (219) 838-9811 (please leave your name, phone number & quantity/flavor desired). Choices: potato, kraut, cheese & prune. Cost: $9/dozen & $4.50/half-dozen.

Catholic Charities Counseling Catholic Charities offers counseling services to individuals,

families and children on a sliding fee scale. For more information please call: (219) 844-4883.

Marriage Encounter Weekend “For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the

worlds, but that the world might be saved through him.” Let Christ into your marriage so it can be a greater marriage.

Couples who attend Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekends not only rediscover the joy, intimacy and romance in their relationships, but also become more active in their parish.

Together we are making marriages, families and our Church stronger & healthier. Upcoming weekends:

October 10-12, 2014 & December 5-7, 2014

All Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekends take place in Elk Grove, IL. Early reservations are requested.

For information and reservations, call Jim & Kris (630) 577-0778 or www.wwmejoliet.org.

Artists & Crafters Wanted Artists and crafters are needed

for the 29th Annual STM Altar & Rosary Holiday Bazaar

Saturday, November 1 & Sunday, November 2

For a vendor application, contact Kaaren at (219)836-5079 or kaarenann@aol.com