St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church — 2021 Stewardship Renewal Handbook

Discipleship IN THE RISEN CHRIST

S T. A N T H O N Y O F PA D UA C AT H O L I C C H U R C H

2021 Stewardship Renewal

CONTENTS 3

Gift of Time

4

Gift of Talent

5

Gift of Treasure

Parish Ministries 6

Worship and Spirituality

8

Catholic Education and Formation

10

Family Life and Ministries

10

Outreach and Social Justice

11 Fellowship 12 Facilities, Property and Stewardship 13

External Organizations

14 Additional Sacramental Information 15 Additional Community Resources 17

Stewardship Prayer

18

FAQ's about Child Baptism

20

Marriage Preparations

21

St. Dominic School

22

St. Anthony Cemetery

23 RCIA 2

Discipleship IN THE RISEN CHRIST

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” — John 3:16 Hope in the Risen Christ summarizes the deepest longing and disposition of a disciple’s heart. It is not something we naturally possess or acquire on our own — rather, it is something that is gifted to us by the grace of God. It is through pursuit of God that we can begin to attain this virtue. Ultimately, it is through the practice of stewardship — recognizing everything as a gift from God and cultivating those gifts for His Kingdom — that we can be receptive to hope. The steward, striving for eternal life, surrenders all that he has to God, knowing that the grace of the Holy Spirit surpasses even his noblest efforts. With the virtue of hope, we will not grow weary for we recognize that God hears even our smallest requests. This is why we, as faithful stewards, are called to Discipleship in the Risen Christ!

Gift of Time God has gifted us with time. How we spend our time can be an expression of love and gratitude to our Heavenly Father. Do we spend it cultivating our relationship with Him and our loved ones? Prayer is a primary way to grow in our relationship with God. It strengthens and nourishes the life of a disciple.

Christ taught us a prayer of hope — the Our Father. We offer this prayer at every Mass and it proclaims the hopeful message of mercy and trustful surrender. Do we pray this prayer with zeal? Do we live as we pray? It is through the very act of praying that our hearts will be willing to surrender our lives to the will of God.

Consider these ideas to deepen your prayer life: •

Reflect on your prayer life. How can you increase the intentional time you spend with God in prayer? How can you incorporate prayer into your family life?

•

Meditate on the Our Father. Ask for the grace to pray it with zeal, and to live by what you pray.

•

Pray for the virtue of hope and for the grace to share the message of hope.

“We are an Easter people and ‘Alleluia’ is our song.” — St. John Paul II

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Gift of Talent Each of us has been given gifts and talents.

Through the message of stewardship, we realize that we cannot take recognition for these gifts.

Rather, it is through the love and generosity of our Heavenly Father that we have been blessed. We show our gratitude to God by sharing our talents for His glory. Are you using your gifts and talents to build the Kingdom of God? How is God calling you to serve Him here and now? Let us each be a vessel of God’s grace to one another. We cannot quantify the effects of God at work in us.

Pray about the following possibilities:

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•

Consider how God can use your talents to build up His Kingdom. Where is He calling you to offer yourself in the coming year?

•

Read through our parish’s Ministry Catalog.

Consider joining a new ministry that will help you to grow in your faith.

•

If you already serve in a ministry, reflect on how you can better serve and grow the ministry.

Gift of Treasure Just as time and talents are gifts from God, so too, are material things, or treasure.

And just as the use of our time and talent can glorify God, so too, does the use of our treasure. God has a plan for every aspect of our lives, including our finances.

We must learn how to take the gifts God has given us — our skills, our abilities, and our income — and surrender them to His plan for our lives. This trustful surrender fills us with hope, freedom and joy that only God can provide.

Out of love and gratitude for the gifts God has given us, reflect on the following: •

Our parish invites each family to give 10 percent of its gross income to God — 5% to the offertory and 5% to the diocese and other worthy causes — to give according to the scriptural tithe.

•

In order to accomplish this goal, we also must learn how to manage the remaining 90 percent. By setting goals, creating a personal budget, sticking to our budgeting plan and, most importantly, coming to a greater understanding of the role generosity plays in our financial and spiritual lives, we can all exercise good stewardship of our treasure.

•

Pray for wisdom when dealing with your treasure.

“Remember that nothing is small in the eyes of God. Do all that you do with love.”

— St. Therese of Lisieux 5

2021 Ministry Listings WORSHIP AND SPIRITUALITY Altar Servers and Senior Altar Servers Altar servers assist at the altar during the celebration of the Eucharist at Mass. They know the responses to the prayers, lead the faithful in participation, and learn how to assist at the altar and the chair. Being present and punctual when assigned is a critical expectation. Annual training for altar servers begins in fifth grade. Senior altar servers include dads and moms and other parishioners who join our regular altar servers to help train and form them in the ministry and carry out the functions of the ministry as well.

Contact: Parish Office, 217-222-5996

Baptismal Gowns See in this white garment the outward sign of your Christian dignity. With the help of our parents and friends, bring that dignity unstained into the everlasting life of heaven. — Rite of Baptism Each child of God welcomed into the Church through Baptism at St. Anthony’s receives

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a special, homemade baptismal gown made by our parishioners. Be a part of this group welcoming our children and their families.

Contact: JoAnn Dietrich, 217-506-0546 Bell Ringers Our church bell is just north of the church and was relocated from the Old St. Anthony Church. Beginning this summer, we hope to restore it to the service of greeting parishioners and neighbors, calling them to Sunday worship or at least a moment of prayer for all who hear it. We invite individuals and families to assume responsibility for this ministry for a period of one month at one of our Sunday Masses.

Church Decorators Our church environment is enhanced by décor reflecting the seasons and holidays of the Church year. This creative team meets on an as-needed basis throughout the year.

Extra help is always welcome and needed especially before Christmas and Easter.

Contact: Jackie Dreyer, 217-222-8049, jmdreyer@hotmail.com

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are mandated by the diocese for service in the parish to help distribute the Eucharist at Mass and to the homebound. A short training session is held before new ministers are commissioned, and annual training is held for all in this ministry. The annual training for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion with be September 2021.

Contact: Bill Anderson, 217-257-2108, billanders44@gmail.com Greeters Greeters welcome and provide hospitality and assistance to parishioners and guests at our weekend Masses. Greeters meet people at the door and welcome them to our church. A new cohort of greeters will be trained in July 2021.

Contact: Deacon Harry Cramer, 217-224-1160, deacon@stanthonypadua.org

Lectors Readers proclaim the readings of Sacred Scripture at Mass. Being present, punctual and prepared is important in this ministry.

Workshops are held annually to assist readers in their ministry. The next training for all readers will be in June of 2021.

Contact: Bill Anderson, 217-257-2108, billanders44@gmail.com Linens This mostly unseen, yet essential ministry is responsible for cleaning and pressing our altar linens and purificators which are used at each celebration of the Mass. Because these linens are used to clean the sacred vessels and are in direct contact with the Body and Blood of Christ, it is important that these linens are cleaned and prepared with appropriate care and respect. The diligence shown by those engaged in this ministry reflects the Church’s respect and honor offered towards the inestimable gifts received from the Altar of God. Contact: Carmel Akins, 217-222-7855 Liturgy of the Word for Children Leaders provide a children’s presentation of the Sunday readings for children ages 3-6 during the 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday Masses. The

Liturgy of the Word for Children is expected to return in August of 2021.

Contact: Vicki Wittland, 217-223-3610, vmwitt@comcast.net Musicians, Song Leaders (Cantors), and Choirs Music is an essential element of worship in the Church. Besides providing resources for leaders who can play instruments and lead sung prayer, St. Anthony’s also gathers lists of volunteers to join our holiday choirs and to serve as song leaders with our instrumentalists.

St. Anthony’s is also committed to developing liturgical musicians, especially young people and college students, who play (mainly) organ or piano, or who are developing skills to direct choirs, scholas (mini choir), or other groups of vocalists to lead our people in sung prayer.

Contact: Song Leaders for 4:00 Mass: Mecki Kosin, 217-779-0152, mecki@travelhouseofquincy.com Song Leaders for 8:00 Mass: Bonnie Nytes, Parish Office, 217-222-5996 Song Leaders for 10:30 Mass: Connie Vemiere, connievermeire@adams.net

Christmas and Easter Choirs: Mecki Kosin, 217-779-0152, mecki@travelhouseofquincy.com New Liturgical Musicians: Fr. Tom Donovan, Parish Office, 217-222-5996 Prayer Chain As Catholics we are asked to help those in need. What greater way to help than through prayer? This ministry is available for anyone needing prayers lifted. Our Prayer Chain accepts requests for timely prayers on behalf of those in need.

For Prayer Requests or to become a Prayer Chain member, contact: Jan Barnard, 217-224-7487 Prayer Shawl Blessed prayer shawls are distributed to parishioners who are sick or in need of prayers and comfort. Those who volunteer their skills at knitting, crocheting, sewing, or quilting, are asked to prepare these items with prayers for healing and love for those who are suffering.

To volunteer to make Prayer Shawls, contact: Jan Barnard, 217- 224-7487; To receive a Prayer Shawl, contact the Parish Office, 217-222-5996

Schola/Choir members: Hope Glidewell, hglidewell@stdominicquincy.org 7

Rosary Leaders The Rosary is offered publicly before each of our Sunday Masses. Leaders are scheduled on an as-needed basis.

Contact: Rich and Alice Rakers, 217-222-4798, amrr61@comcast.net Sacristans (“Lead Ministers”) Sacristans ready the sacristy as well as the materials and items needed for Sunday and daily Masses. After Mass, they help clean the sacred vessels and assist with securing the church building. They report the level of consumable supplies and assist in ongoing maintenance of items used in worship.

Contact: Rita Goerlich, 217-224-1839, rgoerlic@comcast.net Society of St. Pius IX The Society of St. Pius IX was recently formed by a team of high school boys, in order to promote the study of the Mass and its ceremonies, and to provide a special corps of high school-age altar servers for special events, and to inspire greater devotion to our Eucharistic Lord. High school boys who have previously served as altar servers are eligible to join.

Contact: Contact: Parker Brown, 217-242-0320, brownept25@yahoo.com 8

Tuesday Morning Adoration Join fellow parishioners in this centuriesold Eucharistic devotion of prayer and adoration in the presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is held in the church on Tuesdays after the morning Mass until noon.

Contact: Carmel Akins, 217-222-7855 Ushers Alongside our greeters at the doors of our church before Mass, ushers are ministers of hospitality for our parishioners and guests in the church and during Mass.

Besides assisting people to seats, they take up the collection, distribute bulletins, and walk through the church afterwards to assist with cleanup and perhaps even light maintenance. We especially appreciate those ushers who are prepared and trained as first responders in case of sudden illness or other emergency. Ushers serve on teams of four for a month at a time at each of the Sunday Masses. Annual workshops are provided to assist ushers in their ministry.

Contact: Bill Anderson, 217-257-2108, billanders44@gmail.com

CATHOLIC EDUCATION AND FORMATION Adult Education and Formation Throughout the year, we offer classes and events for Catholics of all ages to continue to grow in their faith. Catholic education is not completed with Confirmation, but should continue throughout life. Before the COVID crisis of 2020, plans were in place to offer the following classes: Wisdom: God’s Vision for Life — a Bible study program by Ascension Press inviting contemporary Catholics to consider the ancient wisdom revealed in these special books of the Old Testament.

Dave Ramsey’s Total Money Makeover — a video-based course teaching Christian principles of money management and debt reduction.

The Bible and the Church Fathers — a series looking at the way that the Early Fathers of the Church read and interpreted Scriptures, and how they influenced the Church.

Surviving Divorce — a series for divorced Catholics who are healing from the spiritual and emotional wounds of divorce and separation.

We hope to offer these programs during 2021 and 2022 and are interested in receiving feedback on your interest in these or other Faith Formation programs.

Contact: Parish Office, 217-222-5996; Deacon Harry Cramer, 217-224-1160, deacon@stanthonypadua.org Parish School of Religion (PSR) The Parish School of Religion (PSR) provides religious education and sacramental preparation for children, first through eighth grades, who do not attend a Catholic school. Presently meetings are scheduled for Sunday mornings from 9:15 – 10:15 a.m. during the school year. Teachers, classroom assistants, special events help, and administrative help are needed.

For families with students wanting to join PSR contact: Parish Office, 217-222-5996; For those who would like to help teach PSR contact: Parish Office, 217-222-5996 Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) RCIA is the process by which non-Catholic adults become fully initiated members of the Catholic Church. The journey begins in September and continues to the Easter Season. You will learn about Catholicism

through catechetical lessons and personal testimony. As you grow in the Catholic faith, there will be opportunities for immersion in Catholic prayer, practices and culture. You will prepare for the Easter Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. Our program is open to all who want to become closer to God through Catholicism.

If interested in becoming a candidate, call the Parish Office, 217-222-5996.

If you would like to sponsor a candidate or assist in leading others in their journey, call the Parish Office, 217-222-5996.

St. Dominic’s Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) The St. Dominic Parent-Teacher Organization unites parent of St. Dominic students in special projects and activities for our school children and teachers throughout the school year. Meetings are the first Wednesday of the month at school at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome.

Contact: Holly Kaspaire, 217-440-8835, hollykasparie@yahoo.com

premiere ministry for our parish children and its families. Volunteer opportunities are available for parents and parishioners.

Everyone interacting with our school children MUST complete the Safe Environment Program: Protecting God’s Children.

Contact: School Office, 217-224-0041 Vacation Bible School (VBS) VBS is a week-long summer religious education experience for children age 3 through fifth grade. There is a central theme during this week where the children can immerse themselves in programs, activities and scripture to enhance their Catholic education. There are many ways to assist including material donations, setup and teardown of the program, and nightly volunteers to lead breakout activities. This year’s program is planned for June 2021.

Contact: Bonnie Nytes, 217-222-5996, bon_12@hotmail.com

St. Dominic School By promoting spiritual growth and academic excellence while challenging our students to lead and serve, St. Dominic School is the 9

FAMILY LIFE AND MINISTRIES Nursery Volunteers staff a nursery for young children (ages 1 to 5) during the 10:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday as a service to young families.

Children may be dropped off in the church basement before Mass and picked up afterwards. Adults are needed to help in all phases of this ministry. This ministry is expected to resume in the fall.

Protecting God’s Children Safe Environment Program Almost all ministerial opportunities at St. Anthony Church involve the completion of the Protecting God’s Children Safe Environment program, which is mandated by the Diocese of Springfield. It is everyone’s responsibility to be aware of threats to the safety and welfare of our children and other vulnerable populations in our midst, and to know that the entire Church wishes to do everything possible to make sure that our environment is child-safe.

Classes are available throughout the year and all parishioners volunteering in the parish are invited to participate.

Contact: Frank Arnold, 217-257-2490, fvarnold@hotmail.com

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OUTREACH AND SOCIAL JUSTICE Butterfly Support Ministry The Butterfly Support Ministry is a group of trained parish members who provide assistance to families during the time of the death of a loved one. Activities may include providing a supportive presence, assisting in planning funeral services, assisting with transportation and providing aftercare support of the family as needed. This is a separate ministry from our Funeral Luncheon program.

Contact: Deacon Harry Cramer, 217-224-1160, deacon@stanthonypadua.org Parish Nurse The Parish Nurse Team is a ministry that reaches out to assist those in our parish who are in the hospital as well as recovering

from an illness. They are also involved in blood pressure screening in our parish. If you are a licensed medical professional this is the ministry that can utilize your talents.

This ministry will resume when we receive clearance from Blessing Hospital.

Seven Sisters Apostolate The Seven Sisters Apostolate is a call to strengthen the Church by ensuring that a Holy Hour is prayed each day of the week for the sole intention of a specific priest or bishop — a “holy wasting” (cf. Mt. 26:10) or lavishing of prayer for his deeper conformity to Christ. A Seven Sisters group begins when at least seven women respond to a call to the mission of the apostolate.

Each member commits to a Holy Hour on a distinct day of the week, thus covering a complete week. The commitment is to that day; the Seven Sister may pray at any time on that day.

Contact: Bonnie Grist, 217-222-7344 We Care We Care Society members provide a number of services to those in need. Meeting monthly, We Care assists by providing food and gift cards for those in need, supports food banks with food provided by the parish,

sponsors a child in Bolivia, and delivers nursing home flowers, including Easter lilies and Christmas poinsettias. Birthday cakes are provided for parishioners in nursing homes and the homebound. We Care provides financial support for funeral luncheons and a Mass for parishioners who pass away, as well as for bereavement activities in the parish including The Butterfly Ministry and Grief Share. We have a greeting card ministry and more. Come and join us, as we would like to launch a nursing home ministry among other efforts.

Contact: Deacon Harry Cramer, 217-224-1160, deacon@stanthonypadua.org

FELLOWSHIP Boy Scouts/Girl Scouts The parish sponsors Scout troops for boys and girls under the supervision of adult volunteers.

Contact: Boy Scouts/Cub Scouts: Rob Stull, 217-242-0071; Girl Scouts: Penny Weiman, 217-430-0391, pweiman@yahoo.com Funeral Dinners The parish hosts funeral dinners for families of deceased parishioners whose

funerals are celebrated at the parish. The church provides a main meat dish, and volunteers provide side dishes, as well as setting up, hosting and cleaning up from the meals. Volunteers who are willing to serve on a regular or occasional basis are welcome to help.

Contact: Tawny Benz, 217-257-0847, rtbenz77@gmail.com

Ladies’ Society The Ladies’ Society is responsible for taking care of cleaning the church and providing small altar and sanctuary supplies. The Ladies’ Society provides food and labor for funeral meals, summer card parties, a spring Mother’s Day banquet, and the fall “Diamond Dinner” (ages 75 plus), Christmas luncheon, and Spring Roast Beef dinner. Fundraisers for the Ladies’ Society sponsor these events. The society also meets on a monthly basis.

Contact: Ashley Fischer, 217-257-2096, alcr2003@yahoo.com Men’s Society The Men’s Society meets on a monthly basis to oversee the maintenance of the buildings and grounds. They are also in charge of setting up and cleaning after the annual

picnics, preparation for fish frys, the chicken dinner, and pancake and sausage breakfast.

These events financially support the many special projects and maintenance needs of the parish.

Contact: George Dreyer, 217-223-0415 Quilter’s Ministry Quilters of all ages and skills come together to share their talents “one stitch at a time.”

Quilts are presented at raffles throughout the year.

Contact: Connie Maas, 217-224-0055 St. Dominic’s Junefest and St. Anthony’s Picnic Junefest takes place in mid-June and the St. Anthony Picnic in mid-July, providing evenings of food, amusements and entertainment for the community, while supporting the parish. We are always in need of chairpersons, workers (setup, working the event, teardown), donations, exhibitors, sponsors, and the support of the parish to make each year’s event successful.

Contact: Jackie Dreyer, 217-222-8049, jmdreyer@hotmail.com

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FACILITIES, PROPERTY AND STEWARDSHIP Church Cleaners A first sign of hospitality that our visitors and parishioners notice is the effort to keep a clean, orderly, and well-maintained church facility. Our Ladies’ Society meets regularly to keep the church clean and orderly.

Contact: Jackie Dreyer, 217-222-8049, jmdreyer@hotmail.com Lawn Mowing and Building Maintenance Teams The Men’s Society oversees the majority of parish lawn mowing chores and other maintenance activities. We especially

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appreciate the efforts and assistance of professionals who can volunteer assistance to the parish for electrical, plumbing, construction, IT/technical, painting, HVAC, and other maintenance needs.

Contact: St. Anthony Contact: Elmer Maas, 217-257-7775, elmermass@comcast.net; St. Dominic Contact: Ken Klauser, 217-223-7182, klauser46@yahoo.com Leadership Councils The parish has four councils that are considered “Leadership Councils” for the parish. These groups work together and in their own areas of expertise to advise and assist the pastor in his ministry to the parish. Membership on the councils is generally by way of appointment or election, but we welcome parishioners to make themselves known to the parish office and the pastor of their willingness to serve on these councils.

• Finance Council — assists the pastor with financial reporting and planning for the parish.

• Pastoral Council — assists the pastor with the pastoral programs and initiatives of the parish.

• School Board — assists the pastor and principal with administration and policies of St. Dominic School.

• Stewardship Council — promotes and develops programming to build our parish identity under the stewardship pillars of hospitality, prayer, formation, and service.

Elections or appointments for each council take place on a scheduled basis, as well as on an as-needed basis. Parishioners are welcome to submit their names or the names of others to be placed in consideration for becoming members of one of the Leadership Councils.

Parishioners may also seek to examine meeting records or ask to appear and speak at council meetings according to the by-laws of each organization.

Contact: Parish Office, 217-222-5996, secretary@stanthonypadua.org Parish and School Office Assistants Volunteer office assistants support staff in small and large projects that are needed.

Contact: Parish Office, 217-222-5996, secretary@stanthonypadua.org; St. Dominic School, 217-224-0041

EXTERNAL ORGANIZATIONS Holy Communion and Chaplaincy at Blessing Hospital Holy Communion is offered to Catholic patients every day at Blessing Hospital, thanks to the efforts of dozens of volunteers.

Volunteers may offer assistance with this ministry weekly, monthly or on a substitute basis, after they are commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion in their parish and after completing the hospital’s training programs.

Additional chaplaincy opportunities to minister to Catholics and/or the entire community, along with additional training, including Clinical Pastoral Education, are available through Blessing Hospital.

Contact: Dawn – Chaplains Office at Blessing Hospital, 217-223-8400 Knights of Columbus The Knights of Columbus is a non-profit men’s fraternal society and charitable organization which promotes the Catholic faith and invites its members to be “men of action,” serving those in need in the name of the Church. The local Council (583) and Assembly hold regular meetings and

sponsor family-friendly activities throughout the year, which include the K of C BBQ in mid-August, and the “Mass for Shut-Ins” TV Mass on a weekly basis. For more information, please go to www.quincykofc.org.

Contact: Main Office, 217-228-9362

participating in Cursillo are welcome to join us! This ministry is expected to resume in Fall of 2021.

Contact: Andy Veile, 217-209-1718; Pat Veile, 217-592-2149; quincycursillo.com

Perpetual Adoration St. Peter’s Church (2600 Maine St.) sponsors Perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in a chapel that is open for prayer 24/7.

Volunteers typically sign up to worship and pray during a weekly or bi-weekly prayer hour, or to serve as a substitute for others.

This ministry is expected to resume in Summer or Fall of 2021.

Contact: Gina Wolf, 217-257-9966; Mary Voorhis, 217-653-3127

Teens Encounter Christ (TEC) TEC is a three-day retreat experience for high school juniors and seniors and for college students that offers an opportunity for participants to encounter and integrate the Paschal Mystery of Christ into their lives as young adults. Adult volunteers as well as teens interested in attending the retreat are invited to participate and help lead the retreats.

For more information, see www.greatrivertec.org and send a message through the website. This ministry is expected to resume in Fall of 2021.

Quincy Cursillo Cursillo is a weekend “short course in Christianity” for men and women intended to encourage people to grow in their Catholic faith and take certain and courageous steps to live that faith more abundantly in everyday life. Celebrating nearly 40 years in the Quincy area, Cursillo continues to change lives for the glory of Christ and His Church. Adults interested in

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ADDITIONAL SACRAMENTAL INFORMATION Annulment Advocacy and Assistance Those who have experienced a divorce may have their union examined by the Church to determine if there are grounds in Church law to declare their marriage “null,” allowing a subsequent attempt at marriage for both parties. Advocates help dispel the many myths surrounding the marriage tribunal process and assist petitioners in presenting their cases to the tribunal.

Contact: Fr. Tom Donovan, 217-222-5996, pastor@stanthonypadua.org Marriage Preparation Couples preparing to be married in the Catholic Church are expected to contact their residential pastor no less than six months (although 12-18 months before is more typical) before the proposed date of marriage in order to participate in premarital programming required by the diocese and to reserve the use of the church and its facilities.

Contact: Fr. Tom Donovan, 217-222-5996, pastor@stanthonypadua.org

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Preparation for Baptism of Infants/Children From the earliest days of the Church, there was an understanding that children should not be deprived of the grace of the Sacrament of Baptism, which the Lord Himself proclaimed to be necessary for salvation. Thus, the normal way people are welcomed into the Catholic Church is as an infant. Children are born, baptized and raised in a Church of faith where they are integral members in the larger faith community. To admit children to Baptism recognizes their dignity as co-heirs to the kingdom of heaven — a dignity to which all men, women and children are called.

Parents of children to be presented for Baptism are to have an understanding of their responsibilities as Christian parents — thus we ask that all parents meet with the pastor or a deacon sometime before the celebration of Baptism with your child.

To schedule a Baptism or a Baptism class/ meeting, please contact the Parish Office.

Contact: Parish Office, 217-222-5996, secretary@stanthonypadua.org

Preparation for First Reconciliation and Communion of Children Children are typically invited to receive their First Communion as part of their third-grade religious education curriculum (about age 8). Children should be enrolled in either the parish Catholic school or in the Parish School of Religion for their first and second-grade religious education beforehand, and the child’s family should be attending Mass every weekend during preparation and after their reception of First Communion. For exceptional cases (learning disabled, people caught in the middle of a move to the parish, and other exceptional circumstances) the parish office would be happy to assist in providing appropriate support for families with First Communicants.

Contact: Parish Office, 217-222-5996, secretary@stanthonypadua.org Preparation for Confirmation Confirmation is usually conferred by the bishop upon our young adults as part of their eighth-grade religious education curriculum (about age 14). Confirmandi should have been continuously enrolled in either the parish Catholic school or in the

Parish School of Religion, and attending Mass in preparation for their Confirmation.

Again, exceptional circumstances and provisions for those who have missed their normal time for Confirmation can be arranged by the pastor.

Contact: Parish Office, 217-222-5996, secretary@stanthonypadua.org

ADDITIONAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES Adams County Right to Life Adams County Right to Life promotes the sanctity of human life from the moment of conception to natural death, and advocates awareness and political action among residents of all faiths in Adams County.

Contact: 109 N. 8th St., Quincy, IL 62306, 217-224-LIVE(5483) Birthright of Quincy Birthright of Quincy is a non-profit, non-judgmental, non-denominational organization funded completely by donations from the community and staffed 100 percent by volunteers. The goal of Birthright is to provide pregnant women and girls any support they need to bring

their child into the world and beyond.

Birthright is not political or controversial.

Birthright simply believes an expectant mother should never feel like abortion is her only option.

Contact: Patty Adam, 217-224-1277, help@birthrightquincyil.org Care Net Pregnancy Center of Quincy Care Net is a non-profit, pro-life ministry in the Quincy area dedicated to helping any woman during an unplanned or “crisis” pregnancy. The Center provides free pregnancy tests, pregnancy and parenting classes, adoption information, postabortion counseling, material support and community referrals.

Contact: 802 State Street, Suite 200, Quincy, IL 62301, 217-223-8200 Catholic Youth Organization (CYO) The CYO sponsors sports leagues and other fitness programs for our young people throughout the year.

Contact: Christina Rose, 217-653-1911, christinarose4117@gmail.com

Life Advocacy This is a newly formed ministry that promotes the sanctity of life from the moment of conception to natural death.

Future plans would be to coordinate parish participation in pro-life activities such as 40 Days for Life and Walk for Life.

This ministry connects young women with unexpected pregnancies with local organizations such as Birthright and Care Net Pregnancy Center. This ministry helps coordinate activities and services provided by Right to Life of Adams County, Birthright, Care Net Pregnancy, Project Rachel, Silent No More, Diocesan Pro-Life Activities and Special Ministries, Catholic Conference of Illinois, USCCB Pro-Life Activities, Students for Life and QND Raiders for Life.

Contact: Michelle Thompson, (call or text) 217-257-9094, life@stanthonypadua.org Office of Vocations The Diocese of Springfield offers resources and information for those who are considering ministry in the Church as a priest or vowed religious.

Contact: Fr. Brian Alford, 217-698-8500, vocations@dio.org

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Permanent Diaconate Formation The Permanent Diaconate Program of the Diocese of Springfield provides formation for single and married men (normally between the ages 32-62) called to serve as permanent deacons in the diocese. Deacons serve in the name of the Church through the gift of the Sacrament of Holy Orders following a five-year formation program that includes coursework and field experiences requiring the aspirants to learn and apply Catholic principles of Scripture, theology, Church history, the pastoral sciences, and liturgy.

Contact: Teresa Gray, Secretary of the Office of Ministry Formation at Diocese of Springfield, 217-698-8500, ext. 153, tgray@dio.org Project Rachel Project Rachel is an effort of the Diocese of Springfield to bring mercy and healing to those who suffer following an abortion.

Project Rachel’s most visible and active ministry is its phone hotline service, which seeks volunteers who are willing to be trained in this critical ministry.

Contact: Michelle Thompson, 217-257-9094, life@stanthonypadua.org

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Quincy Catholic Charities Catholic Charities provides assistance to those in need by “extend[ing] to all the healing and empowering presence of Jesus.”

In Quincy, Catholic Charities operates a food pantry, prescription drug assistance program, and other programs, and is in regular need of assistance from volunteers to help in their outreach and ministries.

Contact: 620 Maine St., Quincy, IL 62301, 217-222-0958 Quincy Ladies of Charity The Ladies of Charity provide food and clothing to the needy of our community through their thrift store, located at 510 South 4th St. Volunteers (both ladies and men) work during public hours with the public or during other hours to process and sort donations.

Contact: 510 S 4th St., Quincy, IL 62301, 217-222-6359 Quincy Notre Dame (QND) High School QND is Quincy’s co-educational Catholic high school and dedicated to building a faith-filled community of learners among its faculty, staff, students and parents.

For more information, see www.quincynotredame.org or contact the School Office at 217-223-2479

Quincy University Quincy University is Quincy’s own postsecondary institution of higher education, sponsored by the Franciscan Friars.

Contact: 1800 College Ave., Quincy, IL 62301, 217-222-8020 Silent No More Silent No More Awareness is a Campaign whereby Christians make the public aware of the devastation abortion brings to women and men. The campaign seeks to expose and heal the secrecy and silence surrounding the emotional and physical pain of abortion.

Contact: Michelle Thompson, (call or text) 217-257-9094, life@stanthonypadua.org

S T E WA R D S H I P

P R AY E R

Jesus, teach us to pray.

Help us to manage our time so that we can spend it with You.

Holy Spirit, fill us with your gifts.

May we offer ourselves in sacrifice for our parish and for all in need.

Father, give us generous hearts.

Help us to manage our finances and to offer first fruits to you.

As your faithful disciples, we ask this for ourselves and for Catholics everywhere, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

— Amen

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Frequently asked questions on having your children baptized at St. Anthony of Padua Church Q: Who may have their children baptized?

A: Parents alone have the responsibility to present their children for Baptism. (Normally it is inappropriate for grandparents, non-custodial parents, or other parties to present children for baptism.) Parents should be Catholics practicing the faith and either registered in St. Anthony Parish or presenting a letter of introduction/ permission to baptize from their own pastor in the parish where they live.

Q: How do I arrange to have my baby baptized?

A: Parents should contact the parish office (217-222-5996), either before or shortly after a child’s birth. The Church expects that all parents receive appropriate instruction in preparation for the Baptism of their children. This instruction can take place any time — even before the birth of your child.

Normally at the time of this preparation class will the date and time of the Baptism be set in the parish calendar.

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Q: When do Baptisms take place?

A: Typically Baptisms take place on Saturdays and Sundays after the main Masses of the day.

Occasionally Baptisms may take place during Mass itself. Other dates and times may be possible by mutual agreement. Baptisms are not strictly forbidden, but as a rule, do not take place during the Season of Lent. The Easter Vigil, Easter Sunday, and the rest of the Easter Season are privileged times for Baptism.

Baptism should take place in a Church only once on a given day; when multiple Baptisms are requested on one day, there is a single, common celebration for all who are present.

Q: Do we need godparents?

A: Yes. By the ancient tradition of the Church, all candidates for Baptism must have at least one sponsor or two godparents.

These persons must be 1) baptized, confirmed, and practicing Catholics; 2) at least 16 years old; and 3) should not be related to the child in the first degree (parents, grandparents, etc.). If there are

two godparents, one must be a godfather, the other a godmother. There are no provisions for more than two godparents in official records or in Church Law, although sometimes "honorary" godparents may be appointed for the ceremony itself.

Q: Do godparents need to be Catholic?

A: To be a godparent, technically, yes. But, if one godparent is fully qualified as an active, practicing, baptized and confirmed Catholic of at least 16 years of age, a second person who is not Catholic (but is otherwise baptized in another Christian tradition) may serve as a “Christian witness” to the Baptism.

Q: My grandchild has not been baptized and his parents will not bring him to church. May I baptize him myself?

A: Technically, anyone can baptize in a lifeand-death emergency by simply using clean water and the Trinitarian formula: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” This privilege should

not be abused in cases where an emergency is not present. Baptism by persons other than priests or deacons outside an emergency is usually inappropriate because 1) it usurps parental rights to choose Baptism freely for their children; 2) it deprives (otherwise disinterested) parents of the opportunity to reconcile with the Church and return to the practice of the faith on the occasion of their child’s Baptism; 3) ongoing Christian formation, a presumptive requirement before baptizing any child, is not assured; 4) it often does not result in the appropriate recordkeeping which will allow the Church to verify the Baptism of a child when time comes for First Communion, Confirmation, or even a Catholic wedding. While a noble desire on part of a concerned family member, this action can have serious unintended consequences.

Q: My unbaptized child (or another unbaptized person) is seriously ill.

Should he/she be baptized?

A: Absolutely. When an unbaptized person is in danger of death, they should be baptized. If there is time, contact the parish office (and use the emergency voice-mailbox,

if necessary) or contact any other priest or deacon. If time does not allow, any person can baptize with clean water, the intention to do what the Church does in baptizing, and by reciting the Trinitarian baptismal formula. When a Baptism takes place in this manner, those involved are required to inform the parish office as soon as possible so that appropriate records and follow-up pastoral care can be made.

Q: My child was baptized at the hospital. Is it still possible to have a church ceremony?

A: Yes it is. After an emergency Baptism, there is a “Rite of Welcoming Baptized Children to Church” which supplies all the other rituals of Baptism: a baptismal candle, the anointings, etc. The child is not baptized again in this ceremony, as once baptized, a child cannot be baptized again.

The ceremony is otherwise identical to a regular Baptism service.

of formation, education, conversion, and election. Typically Baptism of adults is done with the other Sacraments of Initiation (Confirmation and Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil. The process for this is called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).

Q: Is there a fee for Baptism?

A: No, there is never a fee for administration of any of the sacraments themselves. It is, however, expected that parents of children who are baptized are active, contributing members of the parish.

The parish and/or the minister of Baptism may receive a gift from the family or the baptized, but this is not required.

Q: I am an adult (over 16) and would like to be baptized. What do I do?

A: Please contact the parish office. An unbaptized adult is invited to learn about the faith and choose Baptism after a period 19

Making preparations to get married in the Catholic Church The Church recognizes marriage as “an intimate community of life and love between a man and a woman which is directed toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of children.

By the design of God who created human nature, marriage is both permanent and exclusive” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1603).

We congratulate those who make the decision to get married in the Church, for the marriage you propose today and will live for the rest of your lives reflects God’s perfect and eternal love for His Church.

Couples wishing to celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage must contact the pastor no less than six months prior to the proposed date of the wedding (earlier, if possible). At least one member must be Catholic, and normally, a parishioner of St. Anthony of Padua Church. There is a formal program of preparation which is intended to help the parties enter into a holy, lasting union.

We welcome children of parishioners and alumni of St. Anthony and St. Dominic Schools who have graduated from high school or college and want to have their wedding at St. Anthony Church, but if they have established a permanent residence elsewhere, it will also be required that they have permission from their own local pastor to be married at St. Anthony. In short, this means they need to be active, registered parishioners at the parish where they live. We will assist with this process and it is not hard, unless the parties are completely unknown to their pastor where they live.

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If either party has been previously married, even if only civilly, an investigation will need to take place to determine if the party or parties are free to be married in the Catholic Church. As this can be a time-consuming process with uncertain results, it is most important that this investigation take place as early as possible. A wedding date cannot be set or even "penciled in" on the church calendar until all previously married parties are formally declared “free to marry.”

For more details, please consult the parish website at http://www.stanthonypadua.org/marriage. This page has the full parish marriage policies and a copy of the Engaged Couple’s Guide from the Diocese of Springfield-in-Illinois.

St. Dominic School:

Where Holy Moments Happen Every Day! St. Anthony Church and St. Dominic School became partners in ministry in 2003, and continue the century-old mission of St. Anthony Parish to form our children in the Catholic faith by promoting spiritual growth and academic excellence, while challenging students to use their talents to lead and serve.

A student entering kindergarten must be 5 years of age by Sept. 1 of that year. A student entering first grade must be 6 years of age by Sept. 1 of that year. An official birth certificate must be presented at the time of registration. A baptismal certificate is also required if the child is Catholic.

St. Dominic School accepts only students who desire both religious and academic formation. Thus, St. Dominic admits students in accordance with all policies established by the Diocese of Springfield as outlined in the Handbook of Catholic Education Policies. In choosing to attend St. Dominic, parents pledge their full cooperation in preparing our students to be disciples of Jesus Christ. It is our collective responsibility to nurture students in their faith journey.

A two-tier tuition schedule is established for “participating” members of the parish and for all others. In order to receive a preferred “participating” tuition rate for the coming school year, each family must be able to demonstrate at registration that: 1) they are registered members of St. Anthony of Padua Church, or registered members of another local Catholic parish with their pastor’s permission to attend St. Dominic School; 2) the children enrolled in school have been baptized; 3) each family has filled out and returned to the parish their “Stewardship Commitment Cards”, usually collected the prior September; 4) that there is evidence of weekly Mass attendance at St. Anthony Church or written certification from one’s own pastor at another parish; and 5) that there is evidence of a family’s growing effort to contribute to the parish community through the sharing of “time, talent, and treasure.”

St. Dominic School admits eligible students of any race, color, gender, national origin, ethnic origin, and disability which can be reasonably accommodated in the administration of its educational policies, scholarships, and land programs, as well as athletic and school-administered programs. Students with disabilities will be accepted on a case-by-case basis in order to evaluate the capacity of the school to meet the needs of the student.

Many sources of financial aid are available to our students and their families based primarily on need. These funds are provided by the parish and other sources and are generally administered by the Quincy Catholic Elementary School Foundation, which participates in the FACTS Grants & Aid assessment. For more information, please contact St. Dominic School at 217-224-0041 or the Quincy Catholic Elementary School Foundation at 217-214-6094.

St. Dominic School is a state-recognized Catholic school, serving students in preschool through eighth grade and their families. It is staffed by certified and degreed teachers who are committed to Catholic education.

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St. Anthony Cemetery St. Anthony Cemetery dates to 1859 with the founding of the parish.

Located on the north-east corner of the property, this is the place where we commit our loved ones to the earth in the sure and certain expectation that they will rise in Christ when He comes again in glory.

The cemetery is overseen by a Cemetery Board which meets annually in order to provide guidance to the pastor and the parish office on the administrative and practical needs of the cemetery. The rules for internments are guided by by-laws published by the Cemetery Board and are available on the parish website. Along with these documents the website also publishes prices for graves, prices for grave opening and closing services, and other cemetery regulations.

In order to purchase a grave and be buried in St. Anthony Cemetery, a person must be a member of the parish, or a descendant of a member of the parish, or the spouse of a member or descendant. While corporeal burial is still preferred by the Church, cremation is permitted, and up to two sets of cremated remains are allowed in each single grave.

Families can work through their funeral director at the “time of need” to secure a place when necessary or they can make an appointment with the office to chat with us “pre-need.”

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Becoming Catholic

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, or RCIA, is the parish-based process by which persons interested in the Catholic faith are invited to inquire about the Church, and if they so desire, join the worldwide Catholic community. RCIA provides the outline for this entire process as well as the ritual celebrations marking entry into the Catholic faith. Becoming a Christian and a Catholic is serious business, but because God is ultimately the one who calls a person to such a lifechanging experience, all that is needed is an open heart to His Word and trust in the journey He sets before you. Throughout the process of Christian initiation, usually lasting a year or longer, the entire Church promises to be there for those wishing to grow in their Christian faith. The Church stands by to patiently water, nourish, and cultivate new seeds of faith, trusting in the Lord to provide a great harvest.

There are, of course, ways to become Catholic outside of this typical calendar cycle, and finding yourself in this situation is no reason to put off the movement of the Spirit in your life. We welcome inquiries at all times of the year. For more information and to discuss your interest and desires, please call the parish office.

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Please keep until SPRING 2022

S T. A N T H O N Y O F P A D U A C A T H O L I C C H U R C H 2223 St. Anthony Rd. • Quincy, IL 62305 • 217-222-5996 • www.stanthonypadua.org