The Spirit of
St. Louis @
february 2014
A newsletter of st. louis catholic church • 7601 burnet road, austin, tx • www.st-louis.org
Parish Directory 512.454.0384 x220 Adult & Family Ministry Amy Allert, M.Th., Director
Parish News Our
and
Updates
Lenten Journey 2014
x211 Business Office Brenda Beltran, Business Administrator
Lent is a time of spiritual preparation, re-focusing our hearts and minds on the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus that enabled us to be co-heirs in his heavenly kingdom. The acts of penance and fasting during Lent unite x221 Childhood Ministry us with Christ’s suffering. Lent, the old English word for spring begins Beatriz Franceschi, Director with Ash Wednesday and ends forty days later with the Triduum, excluding x219 Christian Education Sundays. Forty days is the traditional number for discipline, devotion and Tina Juarez-Bailey, Ph.D., preparation in the Bible. Moses stayed on the Mountain of God for forty Director days, Ninevah was given forty days to repent, and Jesus spent forty days in x244 Early Childhood the wilderness praying and fasting, prior to beginning his active ministry. Join us as we begin our forty day journey toward Easter. Ministry Mary Beth Skinnell, Director
March 5 Ash Wednesday Services
x216 Hispanic Adult & Family Ministry Sumayah Abullarade, Director
All services will include distribution of ashes. 6:30am English Mass 8:00am English School Mass 12:05pm English Liturgy of the Word 6:00pm English Mass 8:00pm Spanish Mass
x213 Liturgical ministry Bea Lamb, Director x202 Music Chris Oelkers, Director x208 Pastoral Associate Chad Nusbaum, M.Div. x206 Senior Ministry Coral Migoni-Ryan, M.Div., M.Th., Director
Diocesan Special Collections February 15-16 Catholic University Collection
This special collection in our diocese supports individuals who are seeking higher education or training as theology teachers or catechists. It also x265 Social Ministry supports the campus ministry programs in the colleges and universities in our diocese. Please be generous. Bea Dela Rosa, Director x239 St. Louis Catholic School Patricia Romanies, M.Ed., Principal x205 Youth Ministry Paul Stadelman, Director Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - noon and 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.
March 5 World and Home Missions
This collection, taken on Ash Wednesday, benefits missions in Latin America; Black and Native American Home Missions; Catholic Home Missions; Central and Eastern Europe; Africa Missions. Join us in supporting our Church’s missions at home and abroad!
The Spirit of St. Louis
Adult
and
3
Family Formation
young adult, adult and family faith formation ministries.
Don’t Miss This Lenten Series! The Wounded Heart of Christ: Fountain of Divine Love and Divine Mercy Deacon Rob Embry, Presenter Mondays March 10, 17, 24, 31 | Wozniak Hall
Join Deacon Embry in this motivational, meditative and evangelizing Lenten series that will focus on the images and devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Divine Mercy image. We will explore this from the perspective of: 1. Scriptural foundations. 2. Development of these themes in the Church Fathers and from the Councils and Creeds. 3. Their interconnection with Eucharistic piety. 4. The medieval mystics, St. Margaret Mary and St. Faustina. 5. How the popes of the last hundred years or so, especially Pius XII and John Paul II have emphasized the devotion and used the underlying theology in their own teaching.
The King's Men Friday Morning Fellowship
Parish men of all ages are invited to be part of The King’s Men! This weekly Friday morning fellowship breakfast begins and ends promptly from 6:00am to 7:30am for those who must go to work. The spring session will include two series: The Carpenter’s Workshop by Steve Wood and Untold Blessings: Three Paths to Holiness by Father Robert Barron. Attendance and materials are free. The King’s Men meet in support of their personal faith development so they may become better husbands, fathers and servant leaders in our community. They come together to deepen their relationships with Jesus Christ, their families and their community so as to live their faith in everyday life. Newcomers always welcome! Register via mobile phone, text KINGSMEN to 84576.
Women of Faith A women’s spiritual enrichment group that explores the feminine genius of being created in God’s image will continue this spring with their morning meetings. Meetings are held Wednesdays at 8:00 am in the Parish Education Center – PEC 201 with breakfast and fellowship first, followed by an exploration of women’s spirituality drawing upon various resources and including group discussions. The next session begins on February 19th. This is a great way for women of all walks of life to start their day. To register, or for more information please contact Kim Barger at kimb@bargers.com
Catholic Scripture Study Catholic Scripture Study of Austin is held Wednesday mornings, through April, 9:30-11:30am in the St. Louis Church sanctuary. The weekly twohour bible study consists of prayer, small group discussions and guest lecturers and follows the Austin Independent School District calendar for holidays. CSS is open to men and women and some participants have been enjoying its programs for 13 years or more! This spring, the Book of James is being examined in depth using the CSS International series written by Dr. Scott Hahn. Register online at www.cssaustin. org If you have questions, contact Rosemary Howard at 512-345-3687. Newcomers are welcomed on the first Wednesday and assigned to discussion groups then.
Fellowship of Catholic Men The Central Texas Fellowship of Catholic Men has an active chapter at St. Louis Church. All men over the age of 18 are invited to participate, sharing Scripture, spiritual reading and their faith. The group meets each Sunday evening at 7:00pm in the narthex. Many will stay for the 9:00pm Compline service afterward. For more information, contact Steve Watkins swatkins@caci.com or (512) 836-4777.
Adult Sunday School Continues! Join us each Sunday morning at 11:00am in the St. Louis Catholic School Library. The class is facilitated each week by Chad Nusbaum, St. Louis’ Pastoral Associate and candidate for the Catholic priesthood. Join the group in learning more about the Catholic faith and discussing topics important to you. If you have questions, please contact Chad Nusbaum at chad.nusbaum@st-louis.org or call the church office at 512-454-0384 x 208.
St. Louis Catholic School news preparing the leaders of tomorrow with the light of Christ as their guide
School Registration for 2014 - 2015 Year Established in 1956, St. Louis Catholic School provides a challenging and disciplined academic program instilled with Catholic Values and Traditions. The mission of St. Louis Catholic School is to prepare the leaders of tomorrow with the light of Christ as their guide.
St. Louis Catholic School is a parish school which does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, or gender, in administration of educational policies, admission policies, and other school administered programs; our doors are open to students of all religious beliefs. Registration for the 2014-2015 school year continues! Please consult the school office (see below) or the school’s website (www.st-louis-school.org) for applications and detailed information. There is a non-refundable initial application fee for new students, per application due at the time the application is submitted. Please contact our Registrar, Mrs. Rosalie Dowling, at Rosalie.dowling@st-louis-school.org, or at 512-454-0384, ext. 245 for information.
St. Louis Catholic School Home & School Association's GREEN and WHITE Night is Saturday, February 8, from 6 to 11 pm. The Dinner, Auction and Casino will be held at M ar r i o t t L a F ro n t e r a . The tickets are $50 each. Tickets can be purchased at the SCRIP table, at the school office or online at www.tfafor ms.com/306913. Sponsorships are available. We welcome any donations. Please contact Beth Lear y for more information: 512-918-8792.
St. Louis Catholic School alumni from the class of 1960 through the most recent class of 2014.
The Spirit of St. Louis
February 2014 School Calendar Day
Date
Time
Activity
Wednesday
February 5
8:00 am
Saturday
February 8
All School Mass School Annual Gala ~ Green & White Night Marriott La Frontera Please see website for details!
Wednesday
February 12
8:00 am
All School Mass
Friday
February 14
Altar Server Retreat Weekend
Monday
February 17
All School Holiday ~ President’s Day
Tuesday
February 18
Wednesday
February 19
Tuesday
February 25
Wednesday
February 26
6:00 pm
School Board Meeting ~ PEC 201
8:00 am
All School Mass
3:15 pm
Progress Reports go Home
8:00 am
First Reconciliation for Second Grade Students; Followed by a Reception in Wozniak Hall All School Mass
6:30 pm
Home & School Assn. Meeting in Library
1:30 pm
liturgical MINISTRy service at the altar
Important Dates for Liturgical Ministry February 1 (Saturday) 10:00 a.m. Altar Server continuing ed class in the main nave. 7:00 p.m. February 4 (Tuesday) Extraordinary minister of Holy Communion training class in the main nave. February 14-15-16 Annual Altar Server Retreat Registrations forms due on January 20. February 18 (Tuesday) 7:00 p.m. Homebound Ministry training class in the main nave
Altar Guild Morning Prayer and Brunch
Saturday, February 8 at 9:00 a.m. in Wozniak Hall
Ladies of the parish are invited to attend this opportunity for fellowship and prayer and to learn more about our parish Altar Guild. Mark your calendars and plan to attend. Call Bea Lamb for more information, 512-454-0384 ext. 213.
OUR SACRAMENTS OUR FAITH “The purpose of the sacraments is to sanctify men, to build up the Body of Christ and, finally, to give worship to God.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church123) BAPTISMS
Samantha Jane Padilla Emmanuel Santiago Soto Cruz Bryan Bosco Cherban Sean Thomas Morrow Nelson Choxom-Santos Dayanna Nicole Ramirez Dilan Santiago Sanchez-Correa Giuliana Marie Gee Criztel Hernandez-Torres Gael Hernandez-Torres Siena Carolina Mateus Omar Andy Morales David Ramirez-Flores MARRIAGES & CONVALIDATIONS
Travis Mendell Vanderkolk and Ashley Elizabeth Eaton Miguel Adan Gomez and Kentsey Ellis Smith Sean Patrick McGrath and Sarah Courtney Gardner PROFESSIONS & CONFIRMATIONS (*1st Eucharist also)
Jason Lawrence Clawson Jeremy Joseph Lupa Maria Paulina Medina Pamela Sue Polley Travis Edward Roll* RECENTLY DECEASED
Shirley A. Nemec Minerva Sanchez Martinez Alicia Aida Leal Juan Roberto Lujan Guadalupe Torres Ann Clarke Eleanor Page Jean Corboy
5
parish social MINISTRy serving the neediest among us PARISHIONER EVA CHURCH RETIRES FROM COMMUNITY SERVICE
After nearly three decades of service, parishioner Eva Church retired in December from her community role as an advocate for senior citizens. With prior nursing experience and a degree in health care administration from St. Edward’s University, this Irish born native worked with local hospitals, nursing homes and senior programs before finding her niche with the Austin Groups for the Elderly. She coordinated with local civic leaders Bert Kruger Smith and Willie Kocurek, known for their service to the elderly, and in 1986, they founded AGE, a consolidation of senior-oriented organizations that was a clearinghouse for senior services all in one building. AGE has shared its space with Family Eldercare, Meals on Wheels, the Gray Panthers and offered services such as a senior day center, a medical equipment lending program and caregiver support groups. Eva spent years as the non-profit’s director of the caregiver resource center. “She knows her (continued, page 7) >>
Cindy Meek (left) and Tina Prikryl (right) celebrate with Eva at her retirement party.
“WE FIND A HOME FOR EVERYTHING” By Bea Dela Rosa
Well I’m not one to toot my horn, but as I look back at what was accomplished in the past years and especially 2013, I feel it’s time that you hear what marvelous work Social Ministries has been doing quietly in the corner behind the church. Most of you know that our three main Ministries are our St. Louis Food Pantry (we give groceries to those in our boundaries), St. Louis Mobile Loaves and Fishes (we go out into the Austin area to give out food and toiletry items to the homeless) and the parish St. Vincent de Paul (we visit those in our boundaries with financial needs). What you probably don’t know is that all this is done with the help of volunteers who are either retired or those who want to share their time in worthwhile service. It’s because of our volunteers that all of the Ministries are able to function smoothly. During the week we have volunteers who go out to Capital Area Food Bank and five different Targets to pick up donations. Then we have volunteers who come in and sort through the items that are received from CAFB, Target, Whole Foods and Randall’s, placing them in the proper ministry room. These volunteers stock the shelves in the Food Pantry. They repackage 50-lb bags of vegetables, organize the Mobile Loaves and Fishes The Gabriel Ministry room, and clean up/repair broken plastic Project Ministry bottles/containers. In the Gabriel Project “Baby” has helped 33 room, diapers are nicely stacked, bottles and clothing moms with are placed in drawers for safekeeping. When moms material items needing material support contact us, they can receive and emotional items they most need. support. To date we have helped over 100+ moms and babies. The Gabriel Project Ministry has helped 33 moms with material items and emotional support. We encourage our moms to take parenting classes through Catholic Charities or Any Baby Can. These two agencies also provide new car seats, too. If we have any large items that we can’t carry, we give them to Catholic Charities which dispenses them through their Gabriel Project.
The Spirit of St. Louis
When we have extra things such as large baby items, makeup, hair spray and other feminine supplies we can’t use, we share with an agency called In Kind, Inc. They prepare baby gift-baskets and mommy gift-baskets for redistribution. Other items such as furniture, shelves, TV’s, fans, space heaters, etc., we give to another agency called The Austin Free Store that is located on 12th street. They give all of the items away for free to those who are in need. As for clothing, we keep what we need for Mobile Loaves and Fishes Ministry and then give the rest to Gethsemane Lutheran Church that in turn passes items on through their ministries. We also have our Annual Feast of Giving that is provided by Parish Social Ministries. Volunteers come from all over Austin and Travis County and we even have some that keep coming back to help. The past couple of years we have served 500 individuals (each year) who didn’t have a place to go, who don’t have family and those who are homeless. We also help families with Christmas, signing them up through the Blue Santa Program and we adopt a few families ourselves from Social Ministries. In 2012 we adopted 35 families and in 2013 we adopted 25 families. We start collecting toys from Target at the beginning of the year. Some children are sometimes lucky enough to receive bicycles. So as you can see, there’s a lot of activity that goes on throughout the day and throughout the year at Social Ministries! Our wonderful volunteers make all of this possible as we reach out to the neediest among us in our parish and community. You share with us and we pass your generosity down to others! Like our motto says: “We find a home for everything.”
We also help families with Christmas . . . in 2013 we adopted 25 families.
7
(continued from page 6) way around what can be a complicated system that can leave families confused,” said development director, Lora Hollingsworth. St. Louis also knows Eva for her association with North Central Caregivers, a neighborhood service that allows elderly the freedom of remaining in their homes, even when they can no longer drive. Now known as Drive a Senior, volunteers from many parishes in the area continue to assist the senior shut-ins by taking them to doctors, dentists, grocery stores, pharmacies and more. Eva was a primary motivator for these necessary services, wanting people to age with respect and comfort in their own homes. Eva mentioned she was proud of what AGE has become to the community, but it’s with great pride that St. Louis Church claims her as our parishioner and gives thanks for her exemplary service to senior citizens, who can often be among the most vulnerable in our society. We congratulate Eva and wish her well in retirement, and look forward to her continued ministry in the parish. [Thanks to Andrea Ball’s article in the Austin American Statesman for the facts of this article.]
Early Childhood Ministry Serving our youngest parishioners
Read Anything and Everything with Your Child From: Teaching Young Children/Preschool Vol. 6 No. 2
SAVE THE DATE! Vacation Bible School June 23-27, 2014
Early Childhood Development Center Ages 12 months-5 years of age-located in Wozniak Hall
Since February is “Random Acts of Kindness Month” we will reinforce helping one another and being kind towards others, just like the Good Samaritan. We will be learning about St. Valentine and how he wrote letters to his friends, while in jail, about God’s love, how to love, and this practice led to the tradition of sending “valentines” to those we love.
In the classroom, we introduce the children to different kinds of writingstorybooks, books about topics we are studying, magazines, how-to-guides, and recipes. These are the kinds of writing that children and adults read in school and daily life. You can read anything and everything with your child too. This helps your child learn how and why writing and reading are important and useful. Here are some ideas: Write a letter together. Use it to say “Thank you” or “I hope you feel better soon,” or just “Hello.” Explain why you write the date and include the name of the person to whom you are writing. Sign it and have your child sign their name too. Follow a recipe in a book or instructions on a food container. Work as a team to gather the ingredients. Then follow the directions step-by-step. Ask your child to help you figure out what comes next. Read a variety of books. At the library, help your child pick storybooks, nonfiction books, and books to read together. Your child might choose a book of poems or a book with lots of detailed pictures to look at together.
Children’s Liturgy
(Sundays 9:30/11:30am and 1:30/5:00pm Masses)
Children ages 3 through 8 are welcome to attend! February 2 Feast of the Presentation of the Lord February 9 Be the Salt of Justice on the Earth
February 16 Blessed are They Who Follow the Law of the Lord February 23 Imitate God’s Holiness
Sunday Nursery
Located in Wozniak Hall
Sunday nursery is available during the 9:30 and 11:30 Masses for children ages 6 weeks to 4 years of age.
St. Louis Early Childhood Development Center now accepting applications for fall 2014 enrollment (Children ages 12 months-5 years of age)
For more information, contact Mary Beth Skinnell, Director or Margaret English-Knipp, Assistant Director at 512-454-0384 ext 244.
The Spirit of St. Louis
Frances Eleanor Page
9
Former St. Louis Church organist
A native Austinite, Frances Eleanor Page passed away on December 29, 2013. She was born August 29, 1921 to Samuel Franklin Page and Nina Beveridge Jennings Page and was their only child. She was educated in the Austin public school system and later was graduated from the University of Texas at Austin where she was awarded Baccalaureate degrees in mathematics and music and a Master of Music degree. She studied piano beginning at age 7 and became an accomplished pianist later extending that talent to young students by private piano lessons. Selecting the use of 1921-2013 her middle name, Eleanor chose in college to concentrate her music studies in organ and studied first with Cochrane Penick and then with Dean E. W. Doty. After concluding her studies at the University, she later became an Assistant Professor in the Music Department and was loaned by the Department to the then fledgling Department of Communications to be the music director initially for KUT and then KLRU. She continued in that capacity until her retirement from the University. Having succeeded in her career as an organist, Eleanor distinguished herself in recitals and in service as organist to several churches, including First United Methodist Church, Central Presbyterian Church and Central Christian Church. She retired as organist for St. Louis King of France Catholic Church where she had become a member and where she had found great happiness and made many friends. Published in Austin American-Statesman from Jan. 3 to Jan. 4, 2014.
Congratulations to Parish High Schoolers San Juan Diego C atholic High School proudly announces those
from St. Louis Parish who made the A/B Honor Roll 1st quarter! Fernando Ruiz Jacqueline Gomez Ulisses Ruiz Erwin Sanchez Stephanie Alvarez Schoenstatt Sanchez Jose Manuel Alvarez Carter Adams Nayeli Ruiz Jonathan Adams
St. Dominic Savio reported that the following St. Louis parishioners
earned high Academic Honors for the 1st quarter. Caroline Aanstoos Giakhanh Hoang Chizitam Ibezim Robyn Aanstoos Matthew Bruns Andrew Kalamarides Tuan Mather Eden Desta Sandra Haddad Vu Mather
Elena Pojman Desiree Quintanilla Michelangelo Rodriguez Gabriella Tucker
In addition, the following Dominic Savio students earned Honors: Huy Nguyen Savanah Acosta Maria Saenz-Rodriguez Dominic Kress Isabel Prado Kyle Wyborski Stephen Bruns
SANCTUARY CANDLE MEMORIALS The sanctuary candle is traditionally seen in Catholic churches, burning constantly to indicate the presence of the Blessed Sacrament in the tabernacle. At St. Louis, in both the main nave and the chapel, the sanctuary candles are burning high above the floor in beautifully ornate fixtures suspended from the ceiling. Parishioners are given the opportunity to memorialize a deceased loved one with a $10 contribution, selecting a specified week in which one or both of the two sanctuary candles will be burned in their honor. Visit the church office with your donation, the name of your loved one, your choice of sanctuary candle and the selected week. Memorials are denoted in the Main Nave (M/N) or Chapel (C). Memorials reserved since the last newsletter deadline include: January 26 – February 1 Memory of John & Margaret Barnes by Rita Barnes (M/C and C) February 2-8 Memory of Barbara & Walter Abbott by Judy & Bob Bonham (M/N and C) February 9-15 Memory of Victor & Louise Waneck by the Howard Family (M/N)
Parish News KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS LADIES AUXILIARY KC Ladies Auxiliary encourages members to enrich their spiritual life, promotes a spirit of friendship and gives assistance to the KC Council in developing independent programs and projects. Membership is open to any lady over 18 years of age, Catholic or non-Catholic whose husband, father, son, brother or sweetheart is a member in good standing of a Knights of Columbus Council, or the widow/daughter of a deceased member. If you have questions or need more information, please contact President Julia Johnson at 512-836-1726. ST. LOUIS BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY This dedicated ministry provides food and comfort to registered parishioner’s families and friends grieving the loss of their loved one. There are several Bereavement teams and each team serves in rotation. Team leaders will call members for food donations to be delivered to a central location. If Wozniak Hall is available and needed, a group leader may also ask for help to set-out food and serve. Those in this ministry are usually called to donate food about two times a year. There are no meetings to attend. Food donations do not have to be homemade. The group leader will have an idea of what food the family needs when calling team members. Funerals are during the day, so there is no night driving. Men and women interested in serving in this ministry can contact Jane Hellinger 512-452-9748 or Frances Krause 512-453-4823 or leave your name and number at the Church Office for more information.
and
Updates
KJT-KJZT Christmas Party At the annual KJT-KJZT Christmas Party, Cheri Lomonte from the program Mary’s Touch on Relevant Radio, happily accepted a check for Frontline Faith in the amount of $750.00, from K.J.Z.T. #93. Frontline Faith provides MP3 players with Christian content to active military members. The funds were raised through a bake sale, matching funds and additional donations.
Pictured L to R: Eileen Rosipal,Treasurer; Cheri Lomonte; Jane Hellinger, President; and Phyllis Teykl, Secretary.
“Chrismons” SPECIAL THANKS to the wonderful ladies that created beautiful “Chrismons” for our two large Christmas trees behind the main altar. The loved ones that are being remembered in such a special way will be remembered for years to come. If you are interested in creating a “Chrismon” in memory or to honor a loved one, please contact Annette Kohoutek at 512-451-1425 or fkohoutek@austin.rr.com. Felt, batting and instructions are provided through the generosity of the St. Louis Women’s Club. Your time and some beads/sequins will be greatly admired and appreciated.
Adoration for 2014 In 2014, plan to spend time with the Lord in perpetual adoration as a gift that you give yourself and the parish. Anyone is welcome at any time during the day to pray and meditate in the small Adoration chapel. After hours, nights and weekends please use the keypad entrance that requires a code. The locked doors at these times provide security for adorers and for the sanctuary building itself. If you can commit to a specific time each and every week, you are truly a blessing! Keeping watch with the Blessed Sacrament is such a privilege and honor and your life will be enriched by the time spent with Jesus. To sign-up for a specific hour each week or for keypad code information, please contact Joshua Merrill at Joshua_Merrill@baylor.edu or 512-8797514.
The Spirit of St. Louis
The Healing Sacrament Don’t forget that on the second Sunday of every month, the Sacrament of Healing with laying-on of hands and anointing is offered during the 9:00pm Compline service in the Chapel. Join us for this weekly, meditative service of beautiful Gregorian chant. No reservation is needed and the service lasts approximately 30 minutes.
Sisterhood of the Holy Cloth Would you love to serve your church through a ministry that has no meetings, no dues and you can work from your own home? Then the Sisterhood is for you! These ministry volunteers launder the sacred linens (purificators and corporals) used at Mass and you only have to do it about every 5 weeks. We will train you and give you a written schedule. Please call Judy Bonham 512836-4639 if you are interested.
The Garden Ministry
The Garden Ministry seeks volunteers to help with garden maintenance and work days. Ongoing tasks include weeding, watering and harvesting as well as various construction projects. Volunteer hours are Thursdays from 4:006:00pm and Saturdays for 9:00-11:00am. No experience necessary! Future work days are tentatively scheduled for the first and third Satrudays in March. Contact Anna Walsh for more information or to sign up for a time annaruthwalsh@gmail.com or check our website www.stlouisgarden. wordpress.com
Welcome Ministry Team For 9:30 and 11:30 Sunday Masses
Do you have the gift of hospitality? St. Louis is looking for new members to join our Welcome Ministry team for both the 9:30 and 11:30 Sunday Mass times. This is an opportunity to help newcomers feel welcomed to our parish and assist our clergy to insure that everyone has the information they need to get plugged in to life in our church community. We especially need ministers for the 11:30am Mass time. If you are interested in helping others understand all the wonderful ministries available here at St. Louis, please contact Chad Nusbaum in the Church office for details chad.nusbaum@st-louis.org or 512454-0384 x 208.
11
ST. LOUIS FLOWER GUILD St. Louis Flower Guild welcomes volunteers throughout the year to enhance our worship spaces. There are two ways to volunteer: 1) Each Friday, join a team that is creating the floral arrangements for the weekend Masses. 2) Volunteers are especially needed before major feasts like Christmas and Easter. Call Dolores Rumpf 512-836-2190 for additional details. Whether you can give two hours or ten, come help us decorate God’s house! Maybe you can’t arrange flowers but you can help provide the flowers through your generosity. Altar flowers may be used to honor or memorialize a loved one or a special family event. Consider donating toward the altar flowers for a particular weekend. Call Evelyn McNair 512-454-0384 x 209 or email evelyn. mcnair@st-louis.org and send a check for $65.00 payable to St. Louis Church. Your donation will benefit our St. Louis Flower Guild that offers fresh floral arrangements weekly in our main sanctuary! Naomi Circle This parish group is specifically for widows, who would like to seek the support and friendship of other women who have lost their spouse to death. The group meets monthly. If you are interested in attending or want more information, contact Annette Kohoutek at 512-451-1425 or Eileen Rosipal at 512-452-3292. BOY SCOUT TROOP 89 Boys in 6th through 12th grade are invited to join Troop 89. Monthly outings include camping, backpacking, canoeing, shooting and archery. Many boys also attend summer camp. Please contact Scoutmaster Don Michler at don.michler@gmail.com or Committee Chairman Joe Leary at jleary1@austin. rr.com for more information.
Around the Diocese and beyond 2nd Annual Men’s Conference for Diocese of Austin
The Central Texas Fellowship of Catholic Men is sponsoring a “Man to Man” Conference on Allasweekend retreats Writing Prayer: Sept 13-15 are $195 for private room, $160 for Saturday, February 22 at San Jose Catholic Church shared room, $85 for commuter. All day retreats are $35 from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Keynote speakers include Fr. Join us for a weekend exploring writing as a tool for fostering intimate prayer. We will use guided include Fortomore information orconversations registration Larry Richards, Justin Fatica and special guests Bill and writing and exercises, visual andlunch. musical props invite participants into spiritual with the sacred. Klock, flutist,retreats, will provide the sacred music for this retreat. NO writing are Billy Moyer. Cost is $39.00 for the day and men across on Anne upcoming contact 254-780-2436 or skills email required, only a willingness to ponder and listen—with pen in hand! Led by author Maria Ruiz cedarbrake@austindiocese.org Next events include: the diocese will be participating! Tickets are on sale now Scaperlanda. This retreat is open to both men and women. from www.CatholicManToMan.com February 7-9 Dideon: Oct. 4- 6 “The Shack” with Sr. Lois Fireside Reflection: Of Gods and Men “Meet Me at the Shack ~ Love, Papa” So you’ve read The Shack. Would you like to come and experience it and talk about it? Have on you wondered why God this book in your hands?a Would This retreat is based the movie, “OfputGods and Men”, true you likestory to spend the weekend others who have been touched andand challenged by The Shack, about sevenwith Trappist monks who lived worked among reflecting, unpacking, sharing and experiencing God? The weekend will include presentations, time the local Algiers. for discussion, guidedvillagers imagery andin relaxing beauty.It is a story of faith, courage,
discernment and survival. The movie will be shown with Mass, The Gospel of John: Oct. 14_Adoration all part of the weekend. Brian Reconciliation and Egan, Beverly and language Fr. Angelo Bertini willtwo lead theof retreat. The fourth gospel is writtenCollin in great poetic by John often telling levels stories at
40 Days for Life Campaign March 5 – April 13
The Central Texas Coalition for Life invites you to bring Christ to the sidewalk in front of any of the four abortion the same time. This day will be an opportunity to enter more deeply into the Woman at the Well facilities in Central Texas. Stop by your nearest abortion story and the Eucharist 17 Discourse in Chapter Six. Brian Egan will present this day. February facility to pray any time for a conversion of hearts for 9:00am-2:30pm Increase My OFM: Faith those considering an abortion. You may also buy roses or The Art & Heart of the Spiritual Life Fr. Hasse, Nov. 1-3 Nguyen, associate pastor at St. Louis ParishFire, inBecoming Waco, flowers and leave them on the place that you stand and The ArtFr. and Justin Heart of the Spiritual Life: Based upon his bestselling book, Catching will this Transformation, Day of Reflection onretreat thefocuses passage fromof the John’s pray in honor of those 56+million children’s and women’s Flame: A Guidelead for Spiritual this weekend upon some important elements and attitudes of a vibrant spiritual life: confronting temptations, and Gospel: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in lives that have been lost or damaged. (Please do not leave experiencing God’s presence in our everyday, ordinary life and routine. Fr. Haase is items such as stuffed animals so as to avoid littering fines God;speaker, have spiritual faith also in and me.” is a popular director co- host of “Spirit &Life” on Relevant Radio. . from the city.) Applications are now available for those wishing to lead or participate in a local 40 Days for Nov. 14 The Devil We Don’t Know Fr. Angelo Bertini Life campaign, holding prayer vigils at abortion clinic Catholic Life Insurance Dec. 6-8 Silent Weekend Retreat Cedarbrake Staff locations simultaneously with hundreds of other cities Dec. 9 Advent Dinner Fr. Richard O’Rourke Offers Scholarships across the world. Email for more information: info@ To REGISTER: call 254-780-2436 or go to www.austindiocese.org/cedarbrake Catholic lay men and women, pursuing graduate degrees that CentralTexasCoalition.com or volunteer on a sign-up might qualify them for professional positions in parish or schedule at www.centraltexascoalition.com/get-involved/ All Weekend Retreats are $185 for private room, $155 for shared room, diocesan ministry, are$75 encouraged to consider the Rev. Msgr. upcoming-events/ for commuter Larry J. Droll Scholarship Fund scholarship. The scholarships All Day Retreats are $35 and include lunch are awarded to practicing Roman Catholics who have already attained a bachelor’s degree and are now enrolled in Catholic graduate schools of theology or religious studies. Deadline for applying is February 15. Applications are available by contacting Barbara A. Cheaney at (210) 828-9921 or 1-800292-2548.
Relevant Radio 970 AM in Austin
Grow your faith and change your life with Relevant Radio 970 – “Austin’s Talk Radio for Catholic Life”. This nonprofit, listener-supported Catholic radio station bridges the gap between faith and everyday life by giving you a Drive a Senior greater understanding of Catholicism in today’s secular society. Relevant Radio 970 is owned and operated by Save the Date On Thursday, February 20th at 7:30pm, First Unitarian the largest Catholic talk radio network in the U.S., Universalist Church at 4700 Grover Ave will offer a special reaching more than 20 million people through 33 radio performance by the Paradox Players, presenting “Six Dance stations across the country and its internet broadcast at Lessons in Six Weeks”. This two-character comedy is about www.relevantradio.com Tune in today! relationships and friendships. Refreshments are provided for this program that benefits Drive a Senior (formerly North Central Caregivers). Tickets are $25 or $15 for those 60 years young and older.
The Spirit of St. Louis
9th Annual Catholic Men’s Conference in San Antonio March 7-8
Austin men are cordially invited to the 9th Annual Catholic Men’s Conference in San Antonio, organized by The Pilgrim Center of Hope, a Catholic Evangelization Apostolate since 1993. The conference is a place for men to gather and learn about their faith and who God created them to be as men of God. This year’s Conference will offer five inspirational speakers including Father Nathan Cromly, CSJ (Head of the Brothers of St. John Monastery in Laredo), Greg Willits (author of The New Evangelization and You: Be Not Afraid), and Tim Staples (Former Baptist, Assembly of God whose fellow Marine opened his eyes to Catholicism), Father Ed Hauf, OMI (In healing ministry as Missionary Oblate of Mary Immaculate) and Archbishop Gustavo GarciaSiller, MSpS (Bishop of the San Antonio Diocese and experienced in forming men for their mission as missionaries of the Holy Spirit). Rates for groups, individuals, active military, clergy, religious, seminarians and students are available by going online at www. CMCSanAntonio.com or calling 210-521-3377. The earlier you register the more you save!
Regina Caeli Academy for Home Schooled Students
Regina Caeli Academy is currently accepting applications for the 2014-15 academic year. Please visit their website at www.rcahybrid.org and choose the Apply link to begin your family application. RCA is hosting an Open House on Sunday, February 23, 2:30-4:30pm for interested families. The campus location is St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 11819 IH-35 South. The program serves Prek-3 through 12th grade students. Students attend university style classes, taught using the Socratic method, two days per week and are home schooled the remaining days. RCA provides a highly structured environment to support the values of the Catholic faith taught in the home. They use the Mother of Divine Grace Classical Curriculum and their mission is family-centered, grounded in the Magisterium and devoted to excellence in classical education. Summer training on the classical hybrid method is provided to all of their staff members and parents. RCA is a ministry to assist Catholic home schoolers. For additional information, please contact Donna Freidenfeld at dfreidenfeld.aus@rcahybrid.org or 678-906-5145.
13
Down Home Ranch Building for the Future
In 1990, St. Louis parishioners Jerry and Judy Horton, bought 217 acres east of Austin and founded Down Home Ranch, with a mobile home and a dream to create a working ranch for people with intellectual disabilities. Today, over 24 years later, they have 30 buildings, 330 acres of chickens, greenhouses, cattle, gardens, ponds, wells and 41 who live at the ranch. In 2014, they hope to perpetuate that dream with the Founders’ Legacy Campaign and a goal of $2,500,000. The Legacy Campaign will create new housing, new places to gather and welcome new Resident Ranchers. A Community Center in the Village will include an underground recreation room that will double as a storm cellar for the entire community. Legacy funding will help them conserve energy, harvest rainwater, produce more of their own food and live more lightly on their 330 acres. It will put a cover over their pool for year-round use and will build a much-needed Welcoming Center. Down Home’s mission has always been “to create a place where those with intellectual disabilities live and work alongside those without. They look forward to welcoming more residents to this place – a community of friends, where they can make the most of their abilities and their lives.” Find out more information about this “favorite ranch in Central Texas” by going to www.downhomeranch.org
Project Rachel Retreats
This compassionate ministry helps women and men suffering emotionally and spiritually from the trauma of abortion. Project Rachel retreats are offered throughout the year at private locations. Confidential registration is available by contacting 877-932-2732 or project-rachel@ austindiocese.org.
Religious Vocations The Diocese of Austin Vocation Office has produced a helpful prayer guide, Discerning Whether to Apply to the Seminar y? “Discernment is not primarily an issue of a method, but rather a process of prayer by which one seeks to know and follow God’s will with deeper love. Discernment flows out of a real and continuous union with God in prayer.” The booklet covers the considerations one must make in discernment and offers different kinds of prayer for making a “graced decision”. Please call the Vocations Office at 512-949-2430 to obtain a copy.
HIGH SCHOOL DISCERNMENT DINNERS Join other high school-aged men in a great meal, prayer and discussion every first Wednesday of the month, at St. William Parish Rectory, 1105 Deer Run, Round Rock. Come and learn more about discernment and the call to priestly life. RSVP to Fr.Alex at 512-600-8154 or fralex@ saintwilliams.org for more information.
SINGLE, C ATHOLIC MEN
(18 or older) interested in discerning their vocation in life are invited to an informal dinner with others who are also considering the possibility of the seminary and priesthood. The gathering is held at the Borromeo House at 905-B Duncan Lane in Austin. For more information, contact the diocesan vocation director, Father Brian McMaster at 512-949-2430 or fr-brianmcmaster@austindiocese.org
Congratulations
Most Reverend Michael Sis! Bishop of San Angelo
On December 12th, Pope Francis announced that our diocesan Vicar General, Msgr. Michael Sis, was appointed as the sixth Bishop of San Angelo, replacing retiring Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI, DD. Bishop-elect Sis is scheduled to be ordained and installed as bishop on January 27th at the McNease Convention Center in San Angelo. His diocese encompasses some 37,433 square miles and is comprised of 29 counties in West and Central Texas. Bishop Sis was ordained as a priest here at St. Louis Church by Bishop John E. McCarthy in July 1986. He had earned an undergraduate degree in Philosophy in 1982 from the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana, where he attended Moreau Seminary. He studied Theology at the North American College in Rome, receiving degrees from the Pontifical Gregorian University in 1985 and the Alphonsian Academy of the Pontifical Lateran University in 1990. Father Sis served in a variety of roles within the Diocese of Austin. His first assignment was in Hispanic ministry at Cristo Rey ParishAustin. He then assisted Bishop John McCarthy and Msgr. Edward Matocha in the administration of historic St. Mary CathedralAustin. His longest term of service was in campus ministry at St. Mary Catholic Center at Texas A&M University in College Station, serving first as associate pastor and then as pastor for a total of 13 ½ years. Archbishop Gregory M. Aymond then appointed him in 2006 as full-time Vocation Director for the Diocese of Austin. Then, after serving one year as pastor of St. Thomas More in Austin, he was named Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia by Bishop Joe S. Vasquez in 2010. Over the years, Father Sis served as a member of the Presbyteral Council, the Priest Personnel Board, the College of Consultors, the Vocation Team, the Permanent Diaconate Admissions Committee, and the Bishop’s Advisory Council. He also served as Dean of the Bryan-College Station Deanery. We were blessed by the presence of Father Sis in our diocese and we know that San Angelo is gaining an outstanding new bishop, who will serve his people with great dedication, humility and compassion.
The Spirit of St. Louis
15
Project Andrew For Catholic men (ages 16-45) interested in learning more about discernment, the priesthood, and seminary life. Join us for prayer, testimonials by priests and seminarians, Mass and lunch with Bishop Vásquez.
Discovering one’s vocation is about meeting a person: the person of Christ. Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Mary Cathedral (203 E. 10th Street, Austin)
Free parking available in the Donahue Center Parking Garage (entrance located on San Jacinto Street). You must pay for parking in the street at the meters.
Diocese of Austin The Catholic Church of Central Texas
AUSTINVOCATIONS.COM
Project Miriam Miriam is Hebrew for Mary.
Join other single, Catholic women (ages 16 – 45) seeking to learn from Mary’s joyful “yes” to God.
The morning includes testimonials and prayer with religious Sisters serving in the Diocese as well as Mass and lunch with Bishop Joe Vásquez.
Saturday February 15, 2014 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. St. Mary Cathedral E. 10th Street,toAustin) Saturday, Feb. 16,(203 2013 10 a.m. 2 p.m.
St. Mary Cathedral (203 E. 10th Street, Austin)
Free parking available in the Donahue Center Parking Garage (entrance located on San Jacinto Street) You must pay for parking at the meters.
Diocese of Austin The Catholic Church of Central Texas
For more information, contact the Vocation Office at vocations@austindiocese.org or (512) 949-2430.