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March 22nd - Weekly Newsletter

3/23/2023

 
NEW Mass Schedule Info, The Passion of Christ: Live Theater, and more ...
*|MC_PREVIEW_TEXT|*
I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord;
whoever believes in me will never die.

Dear Friends,

Happy Wednesday everyone, lots of important news this week ... !

NEW MASS SCHEDULE - Beginning Sunday April 16, 2023, we will be changing the Mass Schedule. Please read the information below very carefully!

Stations of the Cross - This FRIDAY, March 24: 6 p.m. ENGLISH Stations at St. Hedwig; 7 p.m. SPANISH Stations at St. John Berchmans. The full schedule is posted below.

The Passion of Christ, Live Theater - A live theater production of the Passion of the Christ is coming to our Parish THIS Saturday, March 25th, 6 pm at St. Hedwig. For a bit more about the live production, see below.

Living Stations of the Cross - St. John Berchmans Junior High students will be performing Live Stations of the Cross on Friday, March 31st at 2 pm and 7 pm in St. John Berchmans Church. All are welcome.

DMI Survey - This Lent, parishioners of all ages are asked to share their input by participating in a 10-15 minute survey developed by the Catholic Leadership Institute, called the Disciple Maker Index Survey (DMI). The survey is ANONYMOUS and available in multiple languages, including English, Polish and Spanish. The survey runs through the end of the month. See below for more information ...

Lenten Movie Event "The Chosen" - There's still time to join us on Mondays OR Tuesdays during Lent as we watch the TV Series "The Chosen".


REVISED BCAP Food Pantry needs - Just a reminder that donating to the Food Pantry isn't a one time thing. Food and other necessities are CONSTANTLY needed. See below for our most current needs.

Eucharistic Testimonies - When we encounter Jesus Christ, he changes us—sometimes by signs and wonders, at other times by his peace that passes all understanding. During this Eucharistic Revival, we would like to share testimonies of our parishioners and their relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist. Today we highlight Jane Simers.

MASKS are still OPTIONAL, BUT ...  With Covid and the Flu on the rise, please use your best judgement when it comes to your own safety and the safety of others, and do not come to church if you are feeling ill. As always, be kind and respectful to one another if the person choses or not to wear a mask. Remember, we're all in this together!

Parish Forms on the Website - https://www.carloacutisparish.org/parish-forms.html Did you know that many of our forms and requests are on our website? Inquiring about a Baptism ... Need a copy of your Baptismal Certificate ... Want to schedule your wedding? It's all on our website! Simply fill out the form and we'll get back to ya.

Prayers for the Sick - Both in the Sunday Bulletin, and here in the Weekly Newsletter, we list the names of those who are in sick and in need of our prayers. If you would like to add you someone's name to the sick list, please email the Parish Office. Please also email us when it's ok to remove them from the sick list. This helps to ensure our list is up to date.

We hope to see you at one of the Masses this weekend, wear a mask or not, and don't forget to bring a friend or two!! Oh ... and wear something PURPLE.
 
God Bless, see you in Church!
Michael White, Director of Music and Liturgy AND Weekly Newsletter Editor
Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish Mission Statement
 
We are a multicultural, intergenerational Catholic parish community of people who through the help of the Eucharist, are on the journey to learning about, celebrating, serving and proclaiming our faith in the Risen Jesus.
 
Vision Statement
 
Our vision is transforming spirits, hearts and minds.
 
Core Values
 
We are welcoming, learning, believing, serving, celebrating,
understanding, sharing, diverse, community and focused on quality.


Goals

1). To have vibrant, welcoming liturgies.
2). To be an evangelizing community.
3). To reach out to youth.
4). To provide social justice education and outreach to the poor.

 
Your input is welcome.
Please send suggestions to Father Paul Sims, C.R. at 
pasims@ameritech.net.
The Passion of Christ
THIS Saturday, March 25th, 6 pm at St. Hedwig

Live Theater Production is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to bring theater to our community, with the help of our community.  It consists of 70 amateur volunteer actors and singers.  It is an opportunity for families to make their dreams of being part of theater a reality, and where curious spectators are able to attend performances free of charge.

Cecylia Jablonska is the director and screenwriter of the Passion of Christ which was set to music by Emmy award-winning composer Andrzej Warzocha.  Passion of Christ has been performed all over Chicagoland as a holiday tradition for the past 30 years.

The goals of the Passion of Christ are to deepen faith; provide a chance to fulfill the theatrical dreams of adults and children alike; integrate families through fellowship; discover new leaders; and inspire new passions.

For the viewer, it is an immersive theatrical experience to be enjoyed by all, in addition to a spiritual preparation for the Resurrection of our Lord.
Client Choice Food Pantry
Revised March 15, 2023

Please see the updated list of needs...

IN ADDITION TO FOOD ...  Because peoples needs are more than just food, we are now collecting the following (new or gently used) items for our Immigrant brothers and sisters.  Coats, Winter Clothes, Jeans, Shoes, Blankets, Towels, Sheets, Pots/Pans, and Utensils. 

You can drop off any donations to 2517 W. Logan blvd between the hours of 9-3 pm M-F, or on Sundays in the bins at the back of the church.
Throughout the Season of Lent, Paschal Triduum and Easter, we will be sharing with you reflections to help "Keep the Season".
 
Annunciation of the Lord
Saint of the Day for March 25

 

The Story of the Annunciation of the Lord

The feast of the Annunciation, now recognized as a solemnity, was first celebrated in the fourth or fifth century. Its central focus is the Incarnation: God has become one of us. From all eternity God had decided that the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity should become human. Now, as Luke 1:26-38 tells us, the decision is being realized. The God-Man embraces all humanity, indeed all creation, to bring it to God in one great act of love. Because human beings have rejected God, Jesus will accept a life of suffering and an agonizing death: “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13).

Mary has an important role to play in God’s plan. From all eternity, God destined her to be the mother of Jesus and closely related to him in the creation and redemption of the world. We could say that God’s decrees of creation and redemption are joined in the decree of Incarnation. Because Mary is God’s instrument in the Incarnation, she has a role to play with Jesus in creation and redemption. It is a God-given role. It is God’s grace from beginning to end. Mary becomes the eminent figure she is only by God’s grace. She is the empty space where God could act. Everything she is she owes to the Trinity.

Mary is the virgin-mother who fulfills Isaiah 7:14 in a way that Isaiah could not have imagined. She is united with her son in carrying out the will of God (Psalm 40:8-9; Hebrews 10:7-9; Luke 1:38).

Together with Jesus, the privileged and graced Mary is the link between heaven and earth. She is the human being who best, after Jesus, exemplifies the possibilities of human existence. She received into her lowliness the infinite love of God. She shows how an ordinary human being can reflect God in the ordinary circumstances of life. She exemplifies what the Church and every member of the Church is meant to become. She is the ultimate product of the creative and redemptive power of God. She manifests what the Incarnation is meant to accomplish for all of us.


Reflection
Sometimes spiritual writers are accused of putting Mary on a pedestal and thereby, discouraging ordinary humans from imitating her. Perhaps such an observation is misguided. God did put Mary on a pedestal and has put all human beings on a pedestal. We have scarcely begun to realize the magnificence of divine grace, the wonder of God’s freely given love. The marvel of Mary—even in the midst of her very ordinary life—is God’s shout to us to wake up to the marvelous creatures that we all are by divine design.


~ Franciscan Media

Abba Father
by Jane Simers


Summer Sunday mornings of my childhood are imprinted on my mind.
In the eight minutes driving back from Mass to our house, my father talked to us
about that Sunday’s Gospel. He related the Gospel in his own words, without
much embellishment or commentary. Now, when I hear those summer Gospels of
Ordinary Time, I feel a special happiness and a little nostalgia for childhood.
I wonder why did my father use this time to recount to us what we had just
heard? Was he simply obeying the presider’s instruction: “Go and announce the
Gospel of the Lord”; in the re-telling, was he re-enforcing his own understanding
of the Gospel’s message; was this his attempt to teach the Word of God to his
little ones?

He had a certain style that when he talked to us about the Gospels, we listened
intently. He didn’t need to insist that we sit still and pay attention to him; he
wasn’t the slightest bit stern. The fact was that we never misbehaved when we
were with him; we could not wait to be with him. As we grew older, we still
wanted to be with him, and spent time with him when we could. He was always
delighted to be with us; he acted as if being with us was as special as a once in a
lifetime experience, living in the moment, without an end in time or in his
affection for us.

We trusted our father completely. As children, we did not worry about anything.
He cared for us, he fed us and clothed us, he protected us, taught us, comforted
us, guided us and sent us out into the world. He was constant, predictable, and
ready to hold us close. We did nothing to earn his love, all we had to do was be
his children and accept his love. We were his and he was ours.

Though none of us had demanded our inheritance, running off with it and cutting
ourselves off from our father like the Prodigal Son, my father often acted like the
father in that story. If we showed up at home unexpectedly, he showered us with
his happiness. If we joined our parents unannounced at Mass, sliding into the pew
where they sat every Sunday, his smile was enough to light the whole church, to
let the whole world know we were his children with whom he was well pleased.
He was always there, even when we rushed off to live our own lives, patiently
waiting for our return.

My father at Mass was marked by exuberant praise and adoration. As long as I
can remember, he truly participated “actively and consciously” in the Eucharistic
celebration and his example was our invitation to do the same. Mass was always a
joyful celebration, a taste of the Lord’s promise of life everlasting.

I know that God made me. However, until recently, I had forgotten that we are
created by God in His image and likeness and the importance of this truth. As I
contemplate my father’s influence on my faith journey, I know now that my
father lived that truth.

I am a witness to my father building a relationship with his children modeled on
the intimate relationship and self-giving love between God the Father, our
Creator and God the Son, our Savior.

I am a witness to the endless and enduring love that God the Father has for each
of us as our Creator. My father embraced that love, making it part of his identity,
and wanted very much to pass on that truth to his children.

By talking to us about the Sunday’s Gospels, he opened a door for us to know the
Word of God. As we grew in size and thought, we began to understand that by
living the Gospels as he did, our own relationship with God would grow and
become stronger. His love for the Eucharist and the sacrifice of the Mass showed
itself in his own kindness and mercy, not only to his children but in his work and
service to his community. He encouraged his children to be of service in small
things. The beatitudes were our guidelines for doing good. He was pleased when
we chose helping professions and encouraged us to use our educations in service
to others beyond our regular employment.

Although I had two sisters and a brother with whom I shared my father, I never
felt that his love for me was diminished by his love for them. So it is with our
heavenly Father: He loves us all, His mercy is never ending, He has a place for
each of us, in this world and in the next. God’s invitation to share in His divine life
is never withdrawn. At the Last Supper, Jesus tells us that those who are faithful
to Him will have life everlasting.

My faith journey and my life journey are intertwined. As I have passed through
the various phases of my life, I have often returned to those Gospels my father
talked about. They have influenced my choices and actions in many ways.
I thank my dear, dear father for teaching me how to know, love and serve God in
this world so that I can be with Him in the next.
“Continuously ask your guardian angel for help.
Your guardian angel has to become your best friend.”
Pope Francis is cautioning people not to get accustomed to the war in Ukraine, and is calling for the faithful to keep those suffering "this tragic reality" in our hearts and prayers. "The thought of the people of Ukraine, afflicted by war, should remain vivid in our hearts."  Please continue to pray for them.
Online Book of Intentions
 
Praying for each other's intentions is an important part of our parish life. If you would like the parish to pray for your intention, please write the intention in a sentence or two in this Online "Book of Intentions."  These intentions will be remembered in our intercessions at our Sunday masses. Click HERE
Please pray for the Sick of our Parish

Fr. Paul Reicher, Doreen Maneely, Anna Mann, Nicole Vilches, Karel O’Brien,Angela Rivera, Mary Anne Sedey, Linda Klickmann, Barbara Durbin, Danny Olivero, Junior Burgos, Dolores Kryszak, Joseph Price, Teresa Ellison, Tallulah Andresen, Robert Bauer, Antionette Krerowicz, Ana Flores, Apolonio Alarcon, Antonio de Vera, Patricio A. Yanez Guerra, Manglio Bonilla Gail, Jason & Family, Daniel Brady, Cyndi De Lira, Carolyn S. Duckunue, Transito Alvarez, Frances Alequin, Alejandro Carmona, Sophie Hernan, Eleanor Jura, Monika Kloniecka, Joseph Wyse, Verena Tonnesen, Berenice Sosnowski, Nick Jurado, Jackie Schuman, Terry Brady, Salomea Olszewska, Hertha Runowski, Angie Schuman, John Graff, Joseph Murphy, Linda Riske, Margaret Flisiak, Jazzmyne Aguilar, Hailey Marose, Sarah Ellison, Nancy Idaszak, Sally Cox, Daniel Salas, Eleanor Rylko, Nancy, Brian, Jimmy Denges, & Crystal Mohetano.
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The Passion of the Christ

3/22/2023

 
Picture
THIS SATURDAY, March 25, 6 pm.
Once again BCAP will be hosting this incredible and powerful reenactment of the Passion of Christ. The production will take place at St. Hedwig Church on March 25th at 6pm.
​Please join us as we walk the final worldly steps of Jesus.
For more information, please visit livetheaterproduction.com

Your Opinion Matters

3/20/2023

 
Picture
Does our parish help you grow spiritually? 
How good are we at connecting you to others in the parish? 
In what ways do you feel invited to share your talents at our parish? 

Your honest answers to these types of questions are what will make Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish a better faith community.

​This Lent, all parishioners – including the young people and teenagers in every family household - at Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish are asked to share their input by participating in a 10-15 minute survey developed by the Catholic Leadership Institute. The survey​, found here, ​is called the Disciple Maker Index (DMI) Survey and will be available online from Sunday, February 26 to March 31. The survey is available in multiple languages, including English, Polish and Spanish. Paper copies will be available at the Church Rectory Office. Your feedback and input will help shape various ministries as we plan for the future and strive to be the best parish we can be. Please participate so our parish can better support you on your spiritual journey as a Catholic, and gauge where our parish needs to focus its energies on building up our community.​ All responses will be confidential, and the parish will only receive information about the community as a whole. We expect to receive overall results this spring/summer at which time we will share what we have learned with the entire parish.

​If you have questions, please contact Dcn. Kevin Kucik at 773-486-1660.
Thank you for your help and support.
Picture

March 15th - Weekly Newsletter

3/16/2023

 
SJB Junior High Living Stations, DMI Survey, Revised Food Pantry Needs, and more ...
*|MC_PREVIEW_TEXT|*
Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life;
you have the words of everlasting life.

Dear Friends,

Happy Wednesday everyone, hope you're enjoying the extra bit of sunshine we have now after the time change!

Pope Francis’ 10th anniversary: On Monday, March 13th, Pope Francis celebrated his 10th Anniversary as Pope. Don't forget to say those 10 Hail Mary's for him. ‘Ad multos annos, Holy Father!’

Stations of the Cross - This FRIDAY, March 3: 6 p.m. ENGLISH Stations at St. John Berchmans; 7 p.m. SPANISH Stations at St. Hedwig. The full schedule is posted below.

Living Stations of the Cross - St. John Berchmans Junior High students will be performing Live Stations of the Cross on Friday, March 31st at 2 pm and 7 pm in St. John Berchmans Church. All are welcome.

DMI Survey - This Lent, parishioners of all ages are asked to share their input by participating in a 10-15 minute survey developed by the Catholic Leadership Institute, called the Disciple Maker Index Survey (DMI). The survey is ANONYMOUS and available in multiple languages, including English, Polish and Spanish. The survey runs through the end of the month. See below for more information ...

Lenten Movie Event "The Chosen" - There's still time to join us on Mondays OR Tuesdays during Lent as we watch the TV Series "The Chosen".


REVISED BCAP Food Pantry needs - Just a reminder that donating to the Food Pantry isn't a one time thing. Food and other necessities are CONSTANTLY needed. See below for our most current needs.

Eucharistic Testimonies - When we encounter Jesus Christ, he changes us—sometimes by signs and wonders, at other times by his peace that passes all understanding. During this Eucharistic Revival, we would like to share testimonies of our parishioners and their relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist. This week we spotlight Olga Castro, see her testimony below.

The Passion of Christ, Live Theater - A live theater production of the Passion of the Christ is coming to our Parish on Saturday, March 25th, 6 pm at St. Hedwig. For a bit more about the live production, see below.


MASKS are still OPTIONAL, BUT ...  With Covid and the Flu on the rise, please use your best judgement when it comes to your own safety and the safety of others, and do not come to church if you are feeling ill. As always, be kind and respectful to one another if the person choses or not to wear a mask. Remember, we're all in this together!

Parish Forms on the Website - https://www.carloacutisparish.org/parish-forms.html Did you know that many of our forms and requests are on our website? Inquiring about a Baptism ... Need a copy of your Baptismal Certificate ... Want to schedule your wedding? It's all on our website! Simply fill out the form and we'll get back to ya.

Prayers for the Sick - Both in the Sunday Bulletin, and here in the Weekly Newsletter, we list the names of those who are in sick and in need of our prayers. If you would like to add you someone's name to the sick list, please email the Parish Office. Please also email us when it's ok to remove them from the sick list. This helps to ensure our list is up to date.

We hope to see you at one of the Masses this weekend, wear a mask or not, and don't forget to bring a friend or two!! Oh ... and wear something PURPLE or PINK for Laetare Sunday!!
 
God Bless, see you in Church!
Michael White, Director of Music and Liturgy AND Weekly Newsletter Editor
Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish Mission Statement
 
We are a multicultural, intergenerational Catholic parish community of people who through the help of the Eucharist, are on the journey to learning about, celebrating, serving and proclaiming our faith in the Risen Jesus.
 
Vision Statement
 
Our vision is transforming spirits, hearts and minds.
 
Core Values
 
We are welcoming, learning, believing, serving, celebrating,
understanding, sharing, diverse, community and focused on quality.


Goals

1). To have vibrant, welcoming liturgies.
2). To be an evangelizing community.
3). To reach out to youth.
4). To provide social justice education and outreach to the poor.

 
Your input is welcome.
Please send suggestions to Father Paul Sims, C.R. at 
pasims@ameritech.net.
Client Choice Food Pantry
Revised March 15, 2023

Please see the updated list of needs...

IN ADDITION TO FOOD ...  Because peoples needs are more than just food, we are now collecting the following (new or gently used) items for our Immigrant brothers and sisters.  Coats, Winter Clothes, Jeans, Shoes, Blankets, Towels, Sheets, Pots/Pans, and Utensils. 

You can drop off any donations to 2517 W. Logan blvd between the hours of 9-3 pm M-F, or on Sundays in the bins at the back of the church.
Throughout the Season of Lent, Paschal Triduum and Easter, we will be sharing with you reflections to help "Keep the Season".
 
Saint Louise de Marillac
Saint of the Day for March 15
(August 12, 1591 – March 15, 1660)

Saint Louise de Marillac’s Story

Born near Meux, France, Louise lost her mother when she was still a child, her beloved father when she was but 15. Her desire to become a nun was discouraged by her confessor, and a marriage was arranged. One son was born of this union. But Louise soon found herself nursing her beloved husband through a long illness that finally led to his death.
Louise was fortunate to have a wise and sympathetic counselor, Francis de Sales, and then his friend, the bishop of Belley, France. Both of these men were available to her only periodically. But from an interior illumination she understood that she was to undertake a great work under the guidance of another person she had not yet met. This was the holy priest Monsieur Vincent, later to be known as Saint Vincent de Paul.

At first, he was reluctant to be her confessor, busy as he was with his “Confraternities of Charity.” Members were aristocratic ladies of charity who were helping him nurse the poor and look after neglected children, a real need of the day. But the ladies were busy with many of their own concerns and duties. His work needed many more helpers, especially ones who were peasants themselves and therefore, close to the poor and able to win their hearts. He also needed someone who could teach them and organize them.
Only over a long period of time, as Vincent de Paul became more acquainted with Louise, did he come to realize that she was the answer to his prayers. She was intelligent, self-effacing, and had physical strength and endurance that belied her continuing feeble health. The missions he sent her on eventually led to four simple young women joining her. Her rented home in Paris became the training center for those accepted for the service of the sick and poor. Growth was rapid and soon there was the need for a so-called “rule of life,” which Louise herself, under the guidance of Vincent, drew up for the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul.

Monsieur Vincent had always been slow and prudent in his dealings with Louise and the new group. He said that he had never had any idea of starting a new community, that it was God who did everything. “Your convent,” he said, “will be the house of the sick; your cell, a hired room; your chapel, the parish church; your cloister, the streets of the city or the wards of the hospital.” Their dress was to be that of the peasant women. It was not until years later that Vincent de Paul would finally permit four of the women to take annual vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. It was still more years before the company would be formally approved by Rome and placed under the direction of Vincent’s own congregation of priests.

Many of the young women were illiterate. Still it was with reluctance that the new community undertook the care of neglected children. Louise was busy helping wherever needed despite her poor health. She traveled throughout France, establishing her community members in hospitals, orphanages and other institutions. At her death on March 15, 1660, the congregation had more than 40 houses in France. Six months later Vincent de Paul followed her in death.

Louise de Marillac was canonized in 1934 and declared patroness of social workers in 1960.


Reflection
In Louise’s day, serving the needs of the poor was usually a luxury only fine ladies could afford. Her mentor, Saint Vincent de Paul, wisely realized that women of peasant stock could reach poor people more effectively, and the Daughters of Charity were born under her leadership. Today, that order—along with the Sisters of Charity—continues to nurse the sick and aging and provide refuge for orphans. Many of its members are social workers toiling under Louise’s patronage. The rest of us must share her concern for the disadvantaged.


Saint Louise de Marillac is the Patron Saint of:
Social workers


~ Franciscan Media

My Eucharistic Testimony
by Olga Castro

 
PRAYER
Prayer isn’t just about asking God for things you need or desire. Prayer has a Spiritual Communion with God, having a relationship with God. To love God, we need to know him. God already knows what we will ask him for, but he wants us to ask him personally. God knows what we need and will provide what we need; it is up to us to ask God through Prayers. In the Bible, he tells us that Our prayers to God are not unlike our men's requests. Our prayers are based on a relationship, as Jesus points out in Matthew 7:8. If a child asks his father for something the father knows to be hurtful, the request is denied. The child may be frustrated and unhappy when he doesn’t get what he asked for, but he should trust his father. Conversely, when the child asks for something the father knows is beneficial, he will provide it eagerly because he loves his child. Prayer helps me in my life. I have become more patient and understanding toward God, and my faith has increased to accept what God gives me. Knowing that Jesus Christ also kept a close relationship with his father and prayed regularly to his father in heaven when he was among us shows me how important it is for me to always stay close to God through prayer. I believe that through prayers, we receive God's graces and blessings for ourselves and those we pray for. It can also invite more peace into our lives and help us learn more about God’s plan for us. Praying is a private time between God and me. My prayer should be sincere and with the right intention.

I will never forget how I questioned God about miracles; I wanted to know how and who got those miracles. I remember how badly I wanted God to hear me with this one prayer, and I cried desperately for a miracle. Then I calmed down, and deep in my heart, I felt that God was telling me that I had to accept his will and that he would show me how I can have lots of blessings and miracles from him. That is when I felt I needed to get close to God. I need to communicate with him regularly, not only when I wanted or needed something from him but to talk with God about anything, to thank him for all I have and don’t have, and to let God know how much I appreciate his love for me and that I love him because he is the best father ever. From that day on, I have been learning more about God and have lived my life with many blessings and miracles. I trust in God, and I know that there will be huge problems; I will be calm and at peace because I know God will give me the strength to carry my cross. It will be in God’s Time because he knows when the best time for change is. I will always continue to pray and be in communion with God. My biggest worry is my children; I Leave my children in God’s hands. I know he will hear my prayers and keep my children safe and will ask others to keep my children and me in their prayers, knowing that prayer is powerful when more than one person is praying. I see how my prayers are being answered when I see the changes my children have been making, and they come to me for advice and take care of me when I become sick or not feeling well. That is when I see the love of God in my children.

Amen
The Passion of Christ
Saturday, March 25th, 6 pm at St. Hedwig

Live Theater Production is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to bring theater to our community, with the help of our community.  It consists of 70 amateur volunteer actors and singers.  It is an opportunity for families to make their dreams of being part of theater a reality, and where curious spectators are able to attend performances free of charge.

Cecylia Jablonska is the director and screenwriter of the Passion of Christ which was set to music by Emmy award-winning composer Andrzej Warzocha.  Passion of Christ has been performed all over Chicagoland as a holiday tradition for the past 30 years.

The goals of the Passion of Christ are to deepen faith; provide a chance to fulfill the theatrical dreams of adults and children alike; integrate families through fellowship; discover new leaders; and inspire new passions.

For the viewer, it is an immersive theatrical experience to be enjoyed by all, in addition to a spiritual preparation for the Resurrection of our Lord.
“Continuously ask your guardian angel for help.
Your guardian angel has to become your best friend.”
Pope Francis is cautioning people not to get accustomed to the war in Ukraine, and is calling for the faithful to keep those suffering "this tragic reality" in our hearts and prayers. "The thought of the people of Ukraine, afflicted by war, should remain vivid in our hearts."  Please continue to pray for them.
Online Book of Intentions
 
Praying for each other's intentions is an important part of our parish life. If you would like the parish to pray for your intention, please write the intention in a sentence or two in this Online "Book of Intentions."  These intentions will be remembered in our intercessions at our Sunday masses. Click HERE
Please pray for the Sick of our Parish

Fr. Paul Reicher, Doreen Maneely, Anna Mann, Nicole Vilches, Karel O’Brien,Angela Rivera, Mary Anne Sedey, Linda Klickmann, Barbara Durbin, Danny Olivero, Junior Burgos, Dolores Kryszak, Joseph Price, Teresa Ellison, Tallulah Andresen, Robert Bauer, Antionette Krerowicz, Ana Flores, Apolonio Alarcon, Antonio de Vera, Patricio A. Yanez Guerra, Manglio Bonilla Gail, Jason & Family, Daniel Brady, Cyndi De Lira, Carolyn S. Duckunue, Transito Alvarez, Frances Alequin, Alejandro Carmona, Sophie Hernan, Eleanor Jura, Monika Kloniecka, Joseph Wyse, Verena Tonnesen, Berenice Sosnowski, Nick Jurado, Jackie Schuman, Terry Brady, Salomea Olszewska, Hertha Runowski, Angie Schuman, John Graff, Joseph Murphy, Linda Riske, Margaret Flisiak, Jazzmyne Aguilar, Hailey Marose, Sarah Ellison, Nancy Idaszak, Sally Cox, Daniel Salas, Eleanor Rylko, Nancy, Brian, Jimmy Denges, & Crystal Mohetano.
Please follow us on our Social Media platforms
by clicking the links below!
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YouTube
Instagram
View this email in your browser
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March 8th - Weekly Newsletter

3/9/2023

 
DMI Survey, Eucharistic Testimonies, and more ...
*|MC_PREVIEW_TEXT|*
I am the light of the world, says the Lord;
whoever follows me will have the light of life.

Dear Friends,

Happy Wednesday everyone, and Happy International Women's Day!

Stations of the Cross - This FRIDAY, March 3: 6 p.m. ENGLISH Stations at Hedwig; 7 p.m. SPANISH Stations at St. John Berchmans. The full schedule is posted below.

Daylight Saving Time - Don't forget we "Spring Forward" THIS Sunday, don't want to be late to Church!

DMI Survey - This Lent, parishioners of all ages are asked to share their input by participating in a 10-15 minute survey developed by the Catholic Leadership Institute, called the Disciple Maker Index Survey (DMI). The survey is ANONYMOUS and available in multiple languages, including English, Polish and Spanish. The survey runs through the end of the month. See below for more information ...

Lenten Movie Event "The Chosen" - There's still time to join us on Mondays OR Tuesdays during Lent as we watch the TV Series "The Chosen".

10 Hail Mary's for Pope Francis - Cardinal Cupich is calling on the people of the Archdiocese of Chicago to take part in a global effort to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Pope Francis’ election to the papacy by praying the Hail Mary 10 times.


BCAP Food Pantry is in NEED - Just a reminder that donating to the Food Pantry isn't a one time thing. Food and other necessities are CONSTANTLY needed. See below for our most current needs.

Eucharistic Testimonies - When we encounter Jesus Christ, he changes us—sometimes by signs and wonders, at other times by his peace that passes all understanding. During this Eucharistic Revival, we would like to share testimonies of our parishioners and their relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist. This week we spotlight Mari Cardenas, see her testimony below.

MASKS are still OPTIONAL, BUT ...  With Covid and the Flu on the rise, please use your best judgement when it comes to your own safety and the safety of others, and do not come to church if you are feeling ill. As always, be kind and respectful to one another if the person choses or not to wear a mask. Remember, we're all in this together!

Parish Forms on the Website - https://www.carloacutisparish.org/parish-forms.html Did you know that many of our forms and requests are on our website? Inquiring about a Baptism ... Need a copy of your Baptismal Certificate ... Want to schedule your wedding? It's all on our website! Simply fill out the form and we'll get back to ya.

Prayers for the Sick - Both in the Sunday Bulletin, and here in the Weekly Newsletter, we list the names of those who are in sick and in need of our prayers. If you would like to add you someone's name to the sick list, please email the Parish Office. Please also email us when it's ok to remove them from the sick list. This helps to ensure our list is up to date.

We hope to see you at one of the Masses this weekend, wear a mask or not, and don't forget to bring a friend or two!! Oh ... and wear something PURPLE!!
 
God Bless, see you in Church!
Michael White, Director of Music and Liturgy AND Weekly Newsletter Editor
Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish Mission Statement
 
We are a multicultural, intergenerational Catholic parish community of people who through the help of the Eucharist, are on the journey to learning about, celebrating, serving and proclaiming our faith in the Risen Jesus.
 
Vision Statement
 
Our vision is transforming spirits, hearts and minds.
 
Core Values
 
We are welcoming, learning, believing, serving, celebrating,
understanding, sharing, diverse, community and focused on quality.


Goals

1). To have vibrant, welcoming liturgies.
2). To be an evangelizing community.
3). To reach out to youth.
4). To provide social justice education and outreach to the poor.

 
Your input is welcome.
Please send suggestions to Father Paul Sims, C.R. at 
pasims@ameritech.net.
Client Choice Food Pantry

Please see the updated list of needs...

IN ADDITION TO FOOD ...  Because peoples needs are more than just food, we are now collecting the following (new or gently used) items for our Immigrant brothers and sisters.  Coats, Winter Clothes, Jeans, Shoes, Blankets, Towels, Sheets, Pots/Pans, and Utensils. 

You can drop off any donations to 2517 W. Logan blvd between the hours of 9-3 pm M-F, or on Sundays in the bins at the back of the church.
Click HERE to register online.
Throughout the Season of Lent, Paschal Triduum and Easter, we will be sharing with you reflections to help "Keep the Season".
 
Saint John of God
Saint of the Day for March 8
(March 8, 1495 – March 8, 1550)

Saint John of God’s Story

Having given up active Christian belief while a soldier, John was 40 before the depth of his sinfulness began to dawn on him. He decided to give the rest of his life to God’s service, and headed at once for Africa where he hoped to free captive Christians and, possibly, be martyred.

He was soon advised that his desire for martyrdom was not spiritually well based, and returned to Spain and the relatively prosaic activity of a religious goods store. Yet he was still not settled. Moved initially by a sermon of Saint John of Avila, he one day engaged in a public beating of himself, begging mercy and wildly repenting for his past life.

Committed to a mental hospital for these actions, John was visited by Saint John, who advised him to be more actively involved in tending to the needs of others rather than in enduring personal hardships. John gained peace of heart, and shortly after left the hospital to begin work among the poor.

He established a house where he wisely tended to the needs of the sick poor, at first doing his own begging. But, excited by the saint’s great work and inspired by his devotion, many people began to back him up with money and provisions. Among them were the archbishop and marquis of Tarifa.

Behind John’s outward acts of total concern and love for Christ’s sick poor was a deep interior prayer life which was reflected in his spirit of humility. These qualities attracted helpers who, 20 years after John’s death, formed the Brothers Hospitallers, now a worldwide religious order.

John became ill after 10 years of service, but tried to disguise his ill health. He began to put the hospital’s administrative work into order and appointed a leader for his helpers. He died under the care of a spiritual friend and admirer, Lady Ana Ossorio.


Reflection

The utter humility of John of God, which led to a totally selfless dedication to others, is most impressive. Here is a man who realized his nothingness in the face of God. The Lord blessed him with the gifts of prudence, patience, courage, enthusiasm, and the ability to influence and inspire others. He saw that in his early life he had turned away from the Lord, and, moved to receive his mercy, John began his new commitment to love others in openness to God’s love.


Saint John of God is the Patron Saint of:

Booksellers
Firefighters
Heart Patients
Hospitals
Nurses
Printers
Sick

~ Franciscan Media

“From the first day of his papacy, when Pope Francis speaks to the faithful he asks that we remember to pray for him,” said Cardinal Cupich. “He has spent the 10 years of his pontificate preaching the Gospel of love and mercy in a world deeply in need of both. Let us respond as he has asked, with prayers.”

Let Pope Francis know you're praying for him by going to this page and lighting a candle.

Eucharist Testimonies

We Missed you last Sunday!
Maria Cardenas
 
“My life is marked by a series of ongoing conversions.  Like St. Paul, it took me a while to see the light.  I can see God’s light most clearly when I am in need of his mercy. Below find a few such instances.  Thanks for reading.
 
Early years
My name is Mari Cardenas, I am the middle child of 5.  I have an older sister, older brother and a younger sister, younger brother.  We all have been raised Catholic throughout our life.  I can certainly say that our mother always tried to talk to us about being good to others and to always do the right thing.  The one thing I remember her saying to us was that God is always watching what we do and if we were to be bad, he would punish us.  I was 17 and totally let go of God and did not make him my priority.  I was 17 years old and the last sacrament I received was my 1st Communion.
 
Young Adult Years
At 24, I knew something was missing in my life, I wasn't feeling satisfied nor happy with my life. I was distracted for some years, working 4 jobs, making money and traveling. I thought that was my joy and happiness. I knew something was missing in my life, I wasn't feeling satisfied nor happy with my life. I decided to look for our neighborhood church. St Johns Berchmans Parish pulled up on my search, I didn't know how to enter the church.  I felt so ashamed, I got flashbacks of once upon a time feeling being in love, and felt loved.  How was I going to walk in?  So I did, I sat all the way in the back pew, hoping no one would be able to notice me.   As I sat there I felt as the smallest spec, but the way I was welcomed by the greeters made me feel confound.  Father Wayne Watts before mass even started, I watched him greeting everyone as he made his way to the back to meet everyone to start mass, walked by me and said, “Good Morning and welcome,” I had a holy moment.  Many Sundays passed by as I attended mass, I happened to miss one Sunday. On the following mass, Father Watts asked that morning before mass, I missed you last week.  I introduced myself and he invited me to come for coffee and chat the following Saturday.  My life once again changed!  I had hope!  I shared much with Father Watts.  It was so worth it.  I remembered Luke 15:31, I was lost and now is found.
Becoming an adult in the Catholic Faith
 
 I was able to sign up to the RCIA, I had decided to get confirmed.  I wanted to receive the Holy Spirit in fullness.  I love our Catholic Faith.  I love the richness of its history and the courage of its Saints.  There are so many inspiring stories of men and women who have accomplished great things and embody the spirit of beauty, truth and goodness. When I came to St John Berchmans, the RCIA , they prepared me very effectively for my confirmation into the church.  My view on the catholic church as an adult was one of reverence and respect to the altar and taking communion on Sundays.  My faith would best be described as filled with fear and awe.  After receiving the fullness of the Holy Spirit through Confirmation, that reverence and respect turned into peace and understanding of sacrifice.  My fears and awe blossomed into love and appreciation. 
 
Fruits of my friendship with Jesus thru prayer.
The journey to becoming a Confirmed Catholic till now, has been extremely fulfilling mentally and emotionally and spiritually.  Through much prayer, it gave me a sense of belonging and reaffirmed my faith.  I have found God's presence in my life. The Holy Spirit has guided me to the most fulfilling purpose and meaningful way to live my life.

 A Couple of years ago, my husband's family received bad news.  His sister-in-law was 18 weeks pregnant and was sent home to await for her baby to slip away from her hands.  She was told that there was nothing medicine could do for her.  After seeing several specialists and several procedures to try to keep her from going into labor, it was useless according to them.  I refuse to believe that nothing was going to be done to save this baby.  That night I couldn't help praying to God for guidance.  My heart was screaming so loud, Mari, you cannot just let go.  I made  some calls to some physicians asking their opinions about how to save this baby.  Til Dr Munoz said she would continue this pregnancy.  They turned down our help at first. I felt disappointed and mad too.  I am upset at myself for trying to help them.  But it wasn't about me.  It was about my most inner true belief that I had a mission.
Conviction
 
For God, there is nothing impossible.  I prayed so hard that night, I asked the holy spirit for guidance on how I can help them.  A premature birth, a dysfunctional heart, premature lungs and high chance of brain damage.  Being in the intensive care unit for over a year.  After hearing many nights, “be prepared for everything, your baby girl might not make it tonight.” Many had questions and others had many doubts.  I became closer to Jesus, praying everyday in the name of Jesus Chirst.  I had surrendered all this family's suffering to our Lord.  My relationship with our Lord became more intimate as I grew closer  thru daily prayer.  

The day I met Montseratt P. was July 27, 2018.  She was born @ 26 weeks.  When I saw her, I was feeling some sort of way.  It was a calling of the Holy Spirit speaking to me thru her.  Good example of what I saw in Montse.  “This grace of light holding her.”
“Not me, but God.”
Pope Francis is cautioning people not to get accustomed to the war in Ukraine, and is calling for the faithful to keep those suffering "this tragic reality" in our hearts and prayers. "The thought of the people of Ukraine, afflicted by war, should remain vivid in our hearts."  Please continue to pray for them.
Online Book of Intentions
 
Praying for each other's intentions is an important part of our parish life. If you would like the parish to pray for your intention, please write the intention in a sentence or two in this Online "Book of Intentions."  These intentions will be remembered in our intercessions at our Sunday masses. Click HERE
Please pray for the Sick of our Parish

Fr. Paul Reicher, Doreen Maneely, Anna Mann, Nicole Vilches, Karel O’Brien,Angela Rivera, Mary Anne Sedey, Linda Klickmann, Barbara Durbin, Danny Olivero, Junior Burgos, Dolores Kryszak, Joseph Price, Teresa Ellison, Tallulah Andresen, Robert Bauer, Antionette Krerowicz, Ana Flores, Apolonio Alarcon, Antonio de Vera, Patricio A. Yanez Guerra, Manglio Bonilla Gail, Jason & Family, Daniel Brady, Cyndi De Lira, Carolyn S. Duckunue, Transito Alvarez, Frances Alequin, Alejandro Carmona, Sophie Hernan, Eleanor Jura, Monika Kloniecka, Joseph Wyse, Verena Tonnesen, Berenice Sosnowski, Nick Jurado, Jackie Schuman, Terry Brady, Salomea Olszewska, Hertha Runowski, Angie Schuman, John Graff, Joseph Murphy, Linda Riske, Margaret Flisiak, Jazzmyne Aguilar, Hailey Marose, Sarah Ellison, Nancy Idaszak, Sally Cox, Daniel Salas, Eleanor Rylko, Nancy, Brian, Jimmy Denges, & Crystal Mohetano.
Please follow us on our Social Media platforms
by clicking the links below!
Website
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
Instagram
View this email in your browser
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Stations of the Cross

3/7/2023

 
Picture

March 1st - Weekly Newsletter

3/2/2023

 
Disciple Maker Index Survey, Eucharistic Evening of Prayer, and more ...
*|MC_PREVIEW_TEXT|*
Even now, says the LORD,
return to me with your whole heart
for I am gracious and merciful.

Dear Friends, 

Rabbit, Rabbit, Rabbit ...

Happy Wednesday everyone, welcome to March. We've got a lot to cover tonight, so grab your favorite beverage and start scrolling!


Stations of the Cross - This FRIDAY, March 3: 6 p.m. ENGLISH Stations at St. John Berchmans; 7 p.m. SPANISH Stations at St. Hedwig. The full schedule is posted below.

DMI Survey - This Lent, parishioners of all ages are asked to share their input by participating in a 10-15 minute survey developed by the Catholic Leadership Institute, called the Disciple Maker Index Survey (DMI). The survey is ANONYMOUS and available in multiple languages, including English, Polish and Spanish. The survey runs through the end of the month. See below for more information ...

Lenten Movie Event "The Chosen" - There's still time to join us on Mondays OR Tuesdays during Lent as we watch the TV Series "The Chosen".

10 Hail Mary's for Pope Francis - Cardinal Cupich is calling on the people of the Archdiocese of Chicago to take part in a global effort to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Pope Francis’ election to the papacy by praying the Hail Mary 10 times.


BCAP Food Pantry is in NEED - Just a reminder that donating to the Food Pantry isn't a one time thing. Food and other necessities are CONSTANTLY needed. See below for our most current needs.

Eucharistic Revival at Vicariate III - Join us in Vicariate III to unite in prayer for renewal and revival with Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Evening Prayer, Tuesday, March 7 at St. Mary of the Angels. See the flyer below for more info...


MASKS are still OPTIONAL, BUT ...  With Covid and the Flu on the rise, please use your best judgement when it comes to your own safety and the safety of others, and do not come to church if you are feeling ill. As always, be kind and respectful to one another if the person choses or not to wear a mask. Remember, we're all in this together!

Parish Forms on the Website - https://www.carloacutisparish.org/parish-forms.html Did you know that many of our forms and requests are on our website? Inquiring about a Baptism ... Need a copy of your Baptismal Certificate ... Want to schedule your wedding? It's all on our website! Simply fill out the form and we'll get back to ya.

Prayers for the Sick - Both in the Sunday Bulletin, and here in the Weekly Newsletter, we list the names of those who are in sick and in need of our prayers. If you would like to add you someone's name to the sick list, please email the Parish Office. Please also email us when it's ok to remove them from the sick list. This helps to ensure our list is up to date.

We hope to see you at one of the Masses this weekend, wear a mask or not, and don't forget to bring a friend or two!! Oh ... and wear something PURPLE!!
 
God Bless, see you in Church!
Michael White, Director of Music and Liturgy AND Weekly Newsletter Editor
Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish Mission Statement
 
We are a multicultural, intergenerational Catholic parish community of people who through the help of the Eucharist, are on the journey to learning about, celebrating, serving and proclaiming our faith in the Risen Jesus.
 
Vision Statement
 
Our vision is transforming spirits, hearts and minds.
 
Core Values
 
We are welcoming, learning, believing, serving, celebrating,
understanding, sharing, diverse, community and focused on quality.


Goals

1). To have vibrant, welcoming liturgies.
2). To be an evangelizing community.
3). To reach out to youth.
4). To provide social justice education and outreach to the poor.

 
Your input is welcome.
Please send suggestions to Father Paul Sims, C.R. at 
pasims@ameritech.net.
Client Choice Food Pantry

Please see the updated list of needs...

IN ADDITION TO FOOD ...  Because peoples needs are more than just food, we are now collecting the following (new or gently used) items for our Immigrant brothers and sisters.  Coats, Winter Clothes, Jeans, Shoes, Blankets, Towels, Sheets, Pots/Pans, and Utensils. 

You can drop off any donations to 2517 W. Logan blvd between the hours of 9-3 pm M-F, or on Sundays in the bins at the back of the church.
Click HERE to register online.
Throughout the Season of Lent, Paschal Triduum and Easter, we will be sharing with you reflections to help "Keep the Season".
 
“From the first day of his papacy, when Pope Francis speaks to the faithful he asks that we remember to pray for him,” said Cardinal Cupich. “He has spent the 10 years of his pontificate preaching the Gospel of love and mercy in a world deeply in need of both. Let us respond as he has asked, with prayers.” Let Pope Francis know you're praying for him by going to this page and lighting a candle.
“Not me, but God.”
Pope Francis is cautioning people not to get accustomed to the war in Ukraine, and is calling for the faithful to keep those suffering "this tragic reality" in our hearts and prayers. "The thought of the people of Ukraine, afflicted by war, should remain vivid in our hearts."  Please continue to pray for them.
Online Book of Intentions
 
Praying for each other's intentions is an important part of our parish life. If you would like the parish to pray for your intention, please write the intention in a sentence or two in this Online "Book of Intentions."  These intentions will be remembered in our intercessions at our Sunday masses. Click HERE
Please pray for the Sick of our Parish

Fr. Paul Reicher, Doreen Maneely, Anna Mann, Nicole Vilches, Karel O’Brien,Angela Rivera, Mary Anne Sedey, Linda Klickmann, Barbara Durbin, Danny Olivero, Junior Burgos, Dolores Kryszak, Joseph Price, Teresa Ellison, Tallulah Andresen, Robert Bauer, Antionette Krerowicz, Ana Flores, Apolonio Alarcon, Antonio de Vera, Patricio A. Yanez Guerra, Manglio Bonilla Gail, Jason & Family, Daniel Brady, Cyndi De Lira, Carolyn S. Duckunue, Transito Alvarez, Frances Alequin, Alejandro Carmona, Sophie Hernan, Eleanor Jura, Monika Kloniecka, Joseph Wyse, Verena Tonnesen, Berenice Sosnowski, Nick Jurado, Jackie Schuman, Terry Brady, Salomea Olszewska, Hertha Runowski, Angie Schuman, John Graff, Joseph Murphy, Linda Riske, Margaret Flisiak, Jazzmyne Aguilar, Hailey Marose, Sarah Ellison, Nancy Idaszak, Sally Cox, Daniel Salas, Eleanor Rylko, Nancy, Brian, Jimmy Denges, & Crystal Mohetano.
Please follow us on our Social Media platforms
by clicking the links below!
Website
Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
Instagram
View this email in your browser
Copyright © *|CURRENT_YEAR|* *|LIST:COMPANY|*, All rights reserved.
*|IFNOT:ARCHIVE_PAGE|* *|LIST:DESCRIPTION|*

Our mailing address is:
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Eucharistic Celebration

2/28/2023

 
Picture
The Archdiocese of Chicago is at a pivotal moment of structural and spiritual renewal, and that is a cause for great hope. We take up this effort at a moment in which the United States bishops have launched a Eucharistic Revival. This convergence reminds us that true renewal of the Church always involves recovering the importance of the Eucharistic celebration as the source and summit of our life as Catholics. From the Eucharistic celebration flows all the Church’s prayer, activities and ministries. Pope Francis recently wrote that “the Christian faith is either an encounter with Him alive or it does not exist.”

Join us in Vicariate III to unite in prayer for renewal and revival through celebrations of exposition and benediction of the Blessed Sacrament led by our Auxiliary Bishop, Most Rev. Robert J. Lombardo, CFR.

Tuesday, March 7, 2023
7 – 8:30 p.m.
St. Mary of the Angels
1850 North Hermitage Avenue Chicago, IL 60622

Young Adults From All Parishes

2/28/2023

 
Picture
Bishop Robert J. Lombardo invites and welcomes all the young adults in Vicariate III to an informal gathering with a meal, conversation and prayer. Come Join Us!
Who: Vicariate III Young Adults from all parishes, ages 20-35 yrs old

When: Wednesday March 1, 2023 6:30pm
Where: St. Mary of the Angels 1850 N. Hermitage Ave, Chicago Il, 60622
Please call 312-534-8399 to R.S.V.P

February 22nd - Weekly Newsletter

2/23/2023

 
Stations of the Cross THIS Friday, DMI Parish Survey, "Keeping the Seasons", and more ...
*|MC_PREVIEW_TEXT|*
If today you hear his voice,
harden not your hearts.

Dear Friends, 

Happy Ash Wednesday everyone, welcome to the Season of Lent ...

Stations of the Cross - This FRIDAY, February 24th: 6 p.m. ENGLISH Stations at St. Hedwig; 7 p.m. SPANISH Stations at St. John Berchmans. The full schedule will be posted SOON!

Lenten Movie Event "The Chosen" - There's still time to join us on Mondays OR Tuesdays during Lent as we watch the TV Series "The Chosen". See below for more information.


BCAP Food Pantry is in NEED - Just a reminder that donating to the Food Pantry isn't a one time thing. Food and other necessities are CONSTANTLY needed. See below for our most current needs.

Catholic Update & Little Black Book - We have a few reflection booklets left, if you haven't already picked one up be sure to this weekend.

MASKS are still OPTIONAL, BUT ...  With Covid and the Flu on the rise, please use your best judgement when it comes to your own safety and the safety of others, and do not come to church if you are feeling ill. As always, be kind and respectful to one another if the person choses or not to wear a mask. Remember, we're all in this together!

Parish Forms on the Website - https://www.carloacutisparish.org/parish-forms.html Did you know that many of our forms and requests are on our website? Inquiring about a Baptism ... Need a copy of your Baptismal Certificate ... Want to schedule your wedding? It's all on our website! Simply fill out the form and we'll get back to ya.

Prayers for the Sick - Both in the Sunday Bulletin, and here in the Weekly Newsletter, we list the names of those who are in sick and in need of our prayers. If you would like to add you someone's name to the sick list, please email the Parish Office. Please also email us when it's ok to remove them from the sick list. This helps to ensure our list is up to date.

We hope to see you at one of the Masses this weekend, wear a mask or not, and don't forget to bring a friend or two!! 
 
God Bless, see you in Church!
Michael White, Director of Music and Liturgy AND Weekly Newsletter Editor
Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish Mission Statement
 
We are a multicultural, intergenerational Catholic parish community of people who through the help of the Eucharist, are on the journey to learning about, celebrating, serving and proclaiming our faith in the Risen Jesus.
 
Vision Statement
 
Our vision is transforming spirits, hearts and minds.
 
Core Values
 
We are welcoming, learning, believing, serving, celebrating,
understanding, sharing, diverse, community and focused on quality.


Goals

1). To have vibrant, welcoming liturgies.
2). To be an evangelizing community.
3). To reach out to youth.
4). To provide social justice education and outreach to the poor.

 
Your input is welcome.
Please send suggestions to Father Paul Sims, C.R. at 
pasims@ameritech.net.
Client Choice Food Pantry

Please see the updated list of needs...

IN ADDITION TO FOOD ...  Because peoples needs are more than just food, we are now collecting the following (new or gently used) items for our Immigrant brothers and sisters.  Coats, Winter Clothes, Jeans, Shoes, Blankets, Towels, Sheets, Pots/Pans, and Utensils. 

You can drop off any donations to 2517 W. Logan blvd between the hours of 9-3 pm M-F, or on Sundays in the bins at the back of the church.
Click HERE to register online.
Throughout the Season of Lent, Paschal Triduum and Easter, we will be sharing with you ways to help "Keep the Season".
 
Don't forget to pick up a "Catholic Update" entitled Ash Wednesday, our shifting understanding of Lent. As well as a "Little Black Book" ... containing 6 minute reflections on the Passion according to St. Matthew for each day of Lent.

They will be available in BOTH English & Spanish!
YOUR opinion matters at Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish.  
  • Does our parish help you grow spiritually?
  • How good are we at connecting you to others in the parish?
  • In what ways do you feel invited to share your talents at our parish?
Your honest answers to these types of questions are what will make Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish a better faith community.
 
This Lent, all parishioners – including the young people and teenagers in every family household - at Blessed Carlo Acutis Parish are asked to share their input by participating in a 10-15 minute survey developed by the Catholic Leadership Institute. 
 
The survey is called the Disciple Maker Index (DMI) Survey and will be available online from Sunday, February 26- March 31. 
 
Go to https://portal.catholicleaders.org/d/g32g34
 
The survey is available in multiple languages, including English, Polish and Spanish.
Paper copies will be available at the Church Rectory Office.
 
Your feedback and input will help shape various ministries as we plan for the future and strive to be the best parish we can be.
 
Please participate so our parish can better support you on your spiritual journey as a Catholic,  and gauge where our parish needs to focus its energies on building up our community.
 
All responses will be confidential, and the parish will only receive information about the community as a whole.  We expect to receive overall results this spring/summer at which time we will share what we have learned with the entire parish.
 
If you have questions, please contact Dcn. Kevin Kucik at 773-486-1660.
 
Thank you for help and support.

 
“Not me, but God.”
Pope Francis is cautioning people not to get accustomed to the war in Ukraine, and is calling for the faithful to keep those suffering "this tragic reality" in our hearts and prayers. "The thought of the people of Ukraine, afflicted by war, should remain vivid in our hearts."  Please continue to pray for them.
Online Book of Intentions
 
Praying for each other's intentions is an important part of our parish life. If you would like the parish to pray for your intention, please write the intention in a sentence or two in this Online "Book of Intentions."  These intentions will be remembered in our intercessions at our Sunday masses. Click HERE
Please pray for the Sick of our Parish

Fr. Paul Reicher, Doreen Maneely, Anna Mann, Nicole Vilches, Karel O’Brien,Angela Rivera, Mary Anne Sedey, Linda Klickmann, Barbara Durbin, Danny Olivero, Junior Burgos, Dolores Kryszak, Joseph Price, Teresa Ellison, Tallulah Andresen, Robert Bauer, Antionette Krerowicz, Ana Flores, Apolonio Alarcon, Antonio de Vera, Patricio A. Yanez Guerra, Manglio Bonilla Gail, Jason & Family, Daniel Brady, Cyndi De Lira, Carolyn S. Duckunue, Transito Alvarez, Frances Alequin, Alejandro Carmona, Sophie Hernan, Eleanor Jura, Monika Kloniecka, Joseph Wyse, Verena Tonnesen, Berenice Sosnowski, Nick Jurado, Jackie Schuman, Terry Brady, Salomea Olszewska, Hertha Runowski, Angie Schuman, John Graff, Joseph Murphy, Linda Riske, Margaret Flisiak, Jazzmyne Aguilar, Hailey Marose, Sarah Ellison, Nancy Idaszak, Sally Cox, Daniel Salas, Eleanor Rylko, Nancy, Brian, Jimmy Denges, & Crystal Mohetano.
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