FATHER'S TWO CENTS WORTH

This is Memorial Day week-end, when we hold in memory all those who served our country.  This includes those who gave their lives, as well as all those who are yet suffering from disabilities suffered in the service of our country.  We pray for them and for their families who suffer with these men and women, and who try to make the best of their remaining days.  Please remember with special prayers tomorrow, and during the week, those who made possible the many blessings and freedoms that we now enjoy.

On Thursday of this week, we will host the Mascoutah Red Cross Blood Drive in our school cafeteria.  This has been an on-going event over the past 36 years.  Again, I ask anyone who can give blood, to come and donate a unit of blood to save a life, or even up to three lives, depending on whether they keep it as whole blood, or as blood components.  The blood drive begins at 2 p.m., and continues until 7 p.m.  I am sure that if anyone got here earlier than 2 p.m., they would start as soon as they were set up.  Giving blood is a noble act, and really makes you like an “Unknown Hero”, who gives of their lives to save the life of another.  Blood must be available before most surgeries can begin.  What we will do Thursday, will make possible the life-saving events for those who are less healthy than our selves.  The demand remains constant and critical.  Come Thursday, from 2 to 7 P.M.  You will leave as a greater person for your generosity!

The Catholic Services and Ministry Mailing came out to those who gave before, but have not given in this year’s appeal.  Any amount of gift helps the various agencies of our diocese to serve the needs of persons that individual parishes cannot meet alone.  We all have been blessed in one way or another.  Share the blessings!

School ended this past week.  That means the children have much time on their hands to recreate, and do good.  Please come and pray at week-day mass for the needs of your families, the parish, the diocese, our Catholic Church, our country.  There is no vacation from our VOCATION to live our Catholic Faith, to be God’s goodness in the world.

With summer, we often assume a more casual attitude and attire.  Church is God’s house, and our attire should reflect our respect for God.  Summer attire is often as minimal as one can dare to wear.  That may be fine elsewhere, but not in church.  Nor is it considerate to other parishioners.  Please dress as if you were going to visit your best friend.  After all, God should be your best friend!  God is our Lord and Savior!

With summer now in full swing, and families taking trips and being absent from the local scene, there is a tendency to forget about our duties to church (support), our ministerial duties for mass and services, and the repairs and preparations necessary to take care of our parish operations.  For all of those who have ministerial responsibilities toward the week-end liturgies, please, please, get a substitute to take your place if you cannot be there for your assigned role.  It is often frustrating to be looking for someone to fulfill a role at mass, be it lector, commentator, Eucharistic Minister, or even usher at the last moment, because a person does not show up.  It all reflects our respect for the mass and for others.

Again, your prayers are requested for the sick, especially Kenny Groennert, for those suffering from cancer in various forms, for the elderly, and for all those in special need.

GIFT CARDS: During the summer, gift cards will be available in the school office Tuesday – Thursday from 9:00 am to noon beginning June 8^th. Cards will also be available in the gathering space after mass. Please contact Debbie Bunn at 566-2866 or debbunn@yahoo.com with any questions. Thanks for your support!

¨ The Country Store needs your help with canned vegetables, fresh vegetables, jams, jelly, and fresh baked goods.

¨ Our Special Quilt Raffle will consist of a queen-size quilt, quilt rack, and a baby quilt. Tickets will go on sale one month prior to the picnic.

¨ The Mouse Roulette will replace the wine stand.

HOLY CHILDHOOD FISH FRY: There will be a fish fry on Friday, August 27th with live music, beer and soda.  

THE DIOCESE OF BELLEVILLE IS SEEKING A DIRECTOR OF YOUTH MINISTRY: The Director of Youth Ministry affirms and calls forth the unique gifts of youth by providing opportunities for ongoing spiritual and leadership development.  The director provides resources and advocacy for ministry leaders and youth of the Diocese in the context of youth ministry.  This position develops, implements, and facilitates diocesan youth ministry events and programs and directly and indirectly serves pastors, parishes, and lay ecclesial ministers.  The Director of Youth Ministry also coordinates diocesan participation in youth ministry on a regional, national and international level.

            Essential qualifications include a bachelor's degree in Pastoral Ministry or Theology, management skills with 5 - 8 years experience in Youth Ministry/Management; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.  Must have strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills as well as strong written and verbal communication skills.  The Director of Youth Ministry is required to be a faithful committed Catholic who understands and accepts the teachings and disciplines of the Catholic Church.

            To apply, send cover letter with resume and preferred salary range to: Human Resources, Diocese of Belleville, 222 S. 3rd St., Belleville, IL 62220.  FAX to 618-212-0056; email to human resources@diobelle.org.  Application deadline:  June 30, 2010.