320 South Washington Street Park Ridge, IL 60068

December 8, 2013

St. Nicholas Party - TODAY!

Sunday, December 8, 2013 10:00 am to 1:30 pm ~ Morello Parish Life Center

Sponsored by St. Ann’s Guild

The day will also include a Bake Sale Sponsored by Mystical Rose Guild

The Birth of the Savior: Journeying with Zeffirelli’s

Jesus of Nazareth

Where: Kinane Center

When: Monday, December 9th 9:30 am to 11:00 am, or 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm

Prepare yourself to experience the birth of the Savior through the poetic images produced by the master cinematographer, Franco Zeffirelli.

We will watch the beginnings of our salvation from Annunciation to the Nativity & the Visit of the Magi. Come with your family and enjoy a movie that is timeless.

Page 2 December 8, 2013

St. Paul of the Cross Welcomes…

Grant Joseph Inglis Son of James & Jill Inglis

Ella Kate Fowler Daughter of Kevin & Cara Fowler

Allison Catherine McCarthy Daughter of James & Cathy McCarthy

Orla Treasa Hesnan Daughter of George & Siobhan Hesnan

Alyssa Lynn Kainer Daughter of Joshua Daniels & Elizabeth Kainer

Liam Robert Kerrigan Son of James & Rita Kerrigan

Nathan Lawrence Wade Son of Christopher & Christine Wade

The next Music for Weddings will be held on

Wednesday, March 12, 2014 at 7:30 pm - Duffin Hall.

Please call (847) 825-7605 to register.

Advent Reconciliation Service

Reconciliation prayer service with individual confession Tuesday, December 17th at 7:30 pm - Upper Church

Additional Reconciliation Opportunities Weekdays: 8:00 - 8:15 am Saturdays: 3:00 - 4:00 pm

Saturday, December 21: 2:00 - 4:00 pm Monday, December 23: 6:00 - 8:00 pm

Rosary and Benediction

7:30 pm - Upper Church

On the three Fridays of Advent one of the priests will expose the Blessed Sacrament and then lead us in the rosary, helping us to reflect on the

mysteries of our salvation. The time of prayer will conclude with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament.

Friday, December 13: Fr Muraya – Luminous Mysteries

Friday, December 20: Fr John – Joyful Mysteries

Advent 2013

NEW PARISHIONER REGISTRATION

TODAY, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8TH PARISH LIFE CENTER 8:30 AM UNTIL NOON II John Swoboda & Christina Allen

II Charles Huettinger, Jr. & Angela Cassata II Anthony Uzemack & Shannon Frantz I Bryan Wilburn & Maura Schelhammer

Wanted: Energetic people to help decorate

St Paul of the Cross for Christmas on

Tuesday, December 17th at approximately 9:00 am.

If you are interested, please contact Betty O'Neill at 847-698-0562, or

beirish@aol.com.

Whatever time you can give will be greatly appreciated.

Early Bulletin Deadlines for December

For the Bulletin of December 15: deadline is as usual.

Early Deadlines for the following 3 bulletins:

Bulletin of December 22: deadline is

Thurs. December 12 by noon.

Bulletin of December 29: deadline is

Tues. December 17 by noon.

Bulletin of January 5: deadline is

Thurs. December 19 by noon.

Questions? Just email or call. judykaplan@spc-church.org

847-692-6024.

Thanks! Judy

Our Second Collection This Weekend,

December 7th & 8th

2nd Sunday of Advent Page 3

Dear St. Paul Parishioners,

Fr. Vic Ivers was the pastor of St Joseph’s in Libertyville for a long time. On the day he retired from active ministry, at the end of Mass he took off his shoes and placed them in front of the altar. Then he turned around to the congregation and asked, “Now who will fill these shoes?” A poignant question that must make all of us ponder. Where are the men and women who will step up to fill those shoes? Who will proclaim the gospel? Where are the young men who will sacrifice themselves to become priests so that we can have the sacraments? That question posed by Fr. Ivers several years ago became the inspiration for a special

vocations event at the seminary in Mundelein last week. Fr. Bob Barron, the rector of the seminary, invited the priests of the diocese to bring a young man to the seminary so that he may consider a vocation to the priesthood. In the last four years I have said it often that I would like to see vocations in our parish. In answer to our prayers a young university student, a member of our parish, contacted me a couple of months ago as he is thinking of the priesthood. I was able to accompany him to the event. To the amazement of all the bishops and the priests gathered, over 145 young men answered the call. Even if a fraction of that number would eventually decide to go to the seminary, the Archdiocese of Chicago will be blessed with many priests in the coming years. During the Mass that the cardinal celebrated, I was looking at all those men who were wondering whether the Lord was calling them. I was really moved. The thought that in this day and age when the allurements of this world are powerfully enticing those young men would give up all that was really touching. They entertain such a thought because they believe in something bigger than this world. They know that following the Lord is what ultimately matters. They want to gather treasures in heaven where no thief steals and no moth destroys. During this season of Advent, all of us are called to engage in similar thinking. While our peers are rushing to their computers to do on-line shopping or to the mall to snap up extraordinary deals, we need to pause and ponder. What are the real priorities of our lives? What is this season all about? Are we eagerly awaiting for the coming of God’s Kingdom or will we be so busy and preoccupied that we will miss the Lord’s arrival? At our Sunday Masses these days we hear passages from the Prophet Isaiah. He was writing at a difficult time in the history of Israel (8th century BCE). The people were in exile and felt abandoned by God. Their security was threatened. Besides the physical distress, the people suffered a spiritual crisis as well. How could God let this happen? Wasn't God supposed to protect the children of the covenant? The disheartened people reasoned that they would have to seek protection from the Assyrians and so many in Judah wanted to make political and military alliances with other nations. Isaiah had a different vision for Jerusalem and the nation. He called for a spiritual renewal and a re-commitment to the covenant and trust in God. He saw Jerusalem and the Temple, "the highest mountain," as potential beacons for all the nations. He called the people to be faithful to God, to put aside plans for a military solution to their problems and instead to seek peaceful ways. Isaiah promised that if the nation followed his call it would be a beacon to all people and Jerusalem would be a place where God's ways would be taught by word and example. As we wait for the birth of Jesus, let us spend our time in prayerful expectation. Let us contemplate the story of Christmas. Let us focus our attention on Mary who eagerly waited for His birth and on Joseph who willingly cooperated in God’s plan. Let us imitate the example of the shepherds and the Magi so that we may offer worthy worship to Baby Jesus on Christmas night. Let this Advent season be a time of spiritual reawakening.

Let us make our own the prayer of Caryll Houselander (my paraphrase):

Be born in us, Incarnate Love! Be born in us! Take our hands and fold them in your prayer. Take our feet and plant them on your path. Take our lips and fill them with your words. Take our eyes and light them with your grace. Take our hearts and fill with your love. Take our lives and make them your own.

Happy Advent! Yours warmly, Fr Britto, Pastor

Page 4 December 8, 2013

Please pray for our RCIA Sojourners

This Sunday, December 8th, our RCIA Sojourners will complete the first period of their formation. The first phase of the journey of initiation has been a time for seekers to hear the mystery of Christ proclaimed. The inquirers have consciously and freely sought the living God and entered the way of faith and conversion as the Holy Spirit opens their hearts.

For those Sojourners who are not baptized, we will celebrate the Rite of Acceptance. These individuals are now ready to publicly declare their intention to continue their journey towards becoming Catholics. For those inquirers who have been previously baptized in a Christian tradition, and are ready to publicly declare their intention to continue their journey toward full communion with the Catholic Church, we will celebrate The Rite of Welcoming. All of our participants will be signed with the Cross to show that they belong to Christ.

We ask you to please pray for the inquirers as they continue their conversion journey and for our RCIA process as we assist them in moving toward a closer relationship with God. Your prayers are critical to the success of our program. We will continue to keep you informed of the initiation process and progress of those considering joining the Church. We invite you to take an active role in welcoming our soon-to-be catechumens and candidates, and to be models of faith and Christian charity for them.

The Pope’s Sunday Angelus message for the start of Advent focused on the importance of hope during the liturgical season dedicated to preparing for Christmas.

“For the great human family it is necessary to renew always the common horizon toward which we are journeying. The horizon of hope! This is the horizon that makes a good journey. The time of Advent that we begin again today returns us to the horizon of hope, a hope that does not disappoint because it is founded on the Word of God. A hope that does not disappoint, simply because the Lord never disappoints! He is faithful! The time of Advent that the Church celebrates in preparation for Christmas is a new journey of the People of God with Jesus Christ, our Shepherd, who guides us in history towards the completion of the Kingdom of God. Let us rediscover the beauty of being together along the way: the Church, with her vocation and mission, and the whole of humanity, the people, the civilizations, the cultures, all together on the paths of time. But on the way to where? In the Old Testament, the People of God journeyed toward Jerusalem where the temple of the Lord was, because from there, from Jerusalem, came the revelation of the face of God and His law. At the fullness of time, however, revelation found its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, and the ‘temple of the Lord’ became God himself, the Word made flesh. It is the Lord himself who guides our journey, the pilgrimage of all of the People of God; and by its light even the other peoples can walk towards the Kingdom of justice, towards the Kingdom of peace. What a great day it will be, when the weapons will be dismantled in order to be transformed into instruments of work! (scripture passage from the prophet Isaiah which referred to such peace). And this is possible! We bet on hope, on the hope of peace, and it will be possible! The journey is never finished. Just as in each of our own lives, there is always a need to restart, to rise again, to recover a sense of the goal of one’s own existence. Mary serves as a model of this spiritual attitude, to this way of being and of journeying in life. Although she was just a simple girl, she carried in her heart the hope of God. In her womb, the hope of God took flesh, became man, and made history: Jesus Christ. Mary’s song of praise in the Magnificat is the canticle of the People of God on the journey, and of all men and women who hope in God, in the power of his mercy. Let us be guided by her, she who is mother, she is a ‘mama’ and knows how to lead us. Let us be guided by her in this time of waiting and active vigilance.”

2nd Sunday of Advent Page 5

CHRISTMAS CONCERT!

Second City Brass will put on a concert of Christmas and seasonal brass music on Saturday, December 21 at 7:30 pm

in the upper church.

The program will feature seasonal favorites, as well as a sing-a-long that is sure to kindle the Christmas spirit!

The concert is FREE and open to the public.

ABOUT SECOND CITY BRASS

City Brass has performed in a number of prominent Chicagoland concert series, including the Barrington Area Library First Fridays

Concert Series, the Northbrook Library Concert Series, the Skokie Library Concert Series, and many

performances at colleges, churches and private events.

Saturday, December 21st at 7:30 pm

ADMISSION IS FREE A free-will offering is appreciated

Inclusion Ministry

"For my home shall be a house of prayer for all people" Isaiah 56:3

Every baptized Catholic is called to participate fully in the life of the church. Persons with disabilities share in this call and should be enabled in every parish community

to participate actively in the mission and ministry of the church. " ....the question is not how can we help people with disabilities (which is an important

question)....a more important question is how can people with disabilities give their spiritual gifts to us and ....call us to love?" Henri Nouwen

The goal of Inclusion Sunday is to create caring, inclusive congregations where people of all abilities can participate.

This annual event is an integral part of a partnership between the Archdiocese and Pathways Awareness Foundation.

"Everyone has gifts and talents to contribute to our parishes if we take steps to remove barriers to participation. We are called to

create faith communities where people of diverse levels of ability can participate. I invite you to reflect on your progress on this

important issue during your Inclusion Awareness Mass Celebration.” Francis Cardinal George, Archbishop of Chicago.

Special thanks to all present at our Inclusion Awareness Mass. It truly was a blessed event and filled with love.

How may we be a contribution of service to you, your family and friends?

In joy, Your Inclusion Representatives: Donna Cornille donnacornille@gmail.com, 224-220-6744 and Mark Miller spartanmil1982@comcast.net

Fr. John with some of our friends from Avenues to Independence

Page 6 December 8, 2013

St. Paul of the Cross has Strong Catholic Families What a great event with prayer and ice-cream giving thanks for families

and parish community. It was a beautiful sight first starting with two packed Masses and then the candle lit procession over to the gym to make tasty

Oberweis sundaes.

Over 300 families came to enjoy the fun and join in the conversation.

Special thanks to the Strong Catholic Family Team consisting of both School and Catechesis parents for planning such a fun event. Also

thanks to the children of team members who came to lend a hand.

Team Memebers: Marie Erricolo, Valarie Sanders,

Rita & Tony Russo, Karen Maloney, Rebecca Dorgan,

Chris Dolatowski, Steve & Carol Bachert,

Marykay Hastings, Kelly Divis, Jennifer Brooks,

Barb & Dr. Spiewak, Kristin O'Reagan, Ann Skoronski, Anna Mae Parkhill, and Fr. Britto.

Additional helpers, Beshar Bahjat,

Marcy Caulkins, Jackie Lifton,

Sandy Karkowski, Bonnie Ashbeck

and great and wonderful students from Strong

Catholic Families.

GREETINGS FROM FIRST GRADE CATECHESIS!

We’ve had a busy first half of the year, learning two important prayers: The Sign of the Cross & The Our Father, and learning that just by talking to God we are praying. We learned that one of the most important things we can talk to God

about is all the things that we are thankful for. In this spirit the children colored postcards that will be sent to our military men and women at home and overseas to say THANK YOU for all they have sacrificed for us and to let them know we are keeping them in our prayers. A little over 120 postcards are being sent through

AMillionThanks.org, an organization that started as a noble campaign by Orange, CA high school freshman Shauna Fleming in March of 2004. She invited her

classmates to collect and distribute one million letters of appreciation to current and past military personnel. Within six months she received the one millionth letter, and so far to date, they have delivered over six million letters of thanks,

prayer and encouragement! If you would like to send a letter to a member of the U.S. armed forces, visit www.amillionthanks.org.

2nd Sunday of Advent Page 7

St. Benedict the African is very close in our thoughts and prayers during the Church year. At Christmas time, in particular, we try to reach out to our sister parish in a significant way. Sister Joanne Delehanty from St. Benedict the African (East) has asked our parish to participate in helping parishioners through gift certificates. She explains it this way:

Being church is about living the challenging values the Gospel holds up constantly before us, justice & charity certainly being among them. The reality of being Church in our world isn't easy. Perhaps a concentrated focus on gifts at Christmas misses some larger issues of what separates us, what our image of our self as an inner city parish is. Gift certificates would allow us, at our discretion, to meet more needs over a broader range of time than just the Christmas holiday. It would allow people the great gift of their own purchase. People who have no cooking facilities welcome an occasional certificate to a local fast-food Restaurant. McDonald's & Kentucky Fried Chicken are nearby. Also welcome are certificates from Kmart, Target, Walgreens, Jewel & Walmart which are a source for diapers and formula as well as toys. Ford City is two busses away, and Sears is located there. Also, gas cards, such as Marathon or Mobile would be greatly appreciated.

Giving Trees are located at all entrances of the upper & lower church. Please take a green envelope hanging from the branches & either: 1) purchase a certificate at one or more of the businesses listed above, or 2) enclose cash for us to purchase certificates in your name. Please deposit green envelopes in the rectory mail drop or the Offertory collection basket during December. Questions? Call Debbie Harris of St. Jude Guild (708) 738-0077.

Thank you for your generosity!

SAINT BENEDICT THE AFRICAN GIFT CERTIFICATE GIVING TREES

SOCIAL SERVICE MINISTRY ADRIENNE TIMM, DIRECTOR

(847) 692-6767 adriennetimm@spc-church.org

ADOPTADOPTADOPT---AAA---FAMILYFAMILYFAMILY We started out with over 148 families to adopt and are well on our way. There are still a few families left, so please give Adrienne Timm, at Social Service Ministry, a call if you are interested or have questions. This is another way to earn service hours.

If you are not a shopper and would rather make a monetary donation, or buy $25 Jewel or Wal-Mart gift cards, we need those, too. Movie passes and restaurant gift cards are also appreciated. We will be collecting them through Christmas. Please drop them off at the rectory, attention of Social Service Ministry.

Anything you can contribute helps to defray the costs of the Adopt-A-Family program & special Christmas food boxes.

WE DID IT!!!

We fed 125 area families for Thanksgiving this season! Many hands make light work & so, here's how it happened.

Thanks to all the parishioners and students who donated food and money to our Thanksgiving Food Drive, and for the volunteers who showed up to carry and sort, and shop for food.

Thanks to Barbara, from All on the Road Catering, for delivering the turkeys to us for a wholesale price. Additionally, Barbara donated all 125 pumpkin pies.

Thanks to the Queen of Peace Guild and the Men's Club for their financial support of the turkeys and for helping with the distribution.

Thanks to all of you who so faithfully bring in your gently used Trader Joe's bags each week. As always, a big Thanks goes to Mother Teresa Guild for keeping the food pantry spinning like a top,

especially during this busy season, date-checking and shelving all the food as it comes in.

The blessings are many as we continue to feed His flock. Thank you for all you do to support this ministry, not only during the holidays, but also throughout the year.

Page 8 December 8, 2013

SERVICE SUNDAYS

♦ Saturday, December 14th • following the 4:30 pm Mass Come to the Parish Life Center meeting room after Mass to help decorate the lunch bags and make Christmas cards for the lunches we will prepare on Sunday for the homeless.

♦ Sunday, December 15th • following the 9 am and 10:30 am Masses • Parish Life Center Gym Sack dinners will be prepared for the homeless and delivered by Uncle Pete’s Ministry to those in need. We also will have a station to decorate the lunch bags and make Christmas cards that will go in the lunches. No sign up required. All ages welcome.

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, come as a family to serve the less fortunate through the Servants of St. Francis by making sack lunches for Uncle Pete’s Ministry on Sunday, December 15th, in the gym following the 9 & 10:30 am Masses.

For those attending the 4:30 Saturday evening Mass on December 14th, come to the Parish Life Center meeting room after Mass to help decorate the lunch bags and make Christmas cards to go in the lunches.

Uncle Pete’s Ministry serves the less fortunate by delivering sack lunches to the needy in the inner city. The ministry was started by Pete Zonsius, a parishioner at St. John Brebeuf, who’s life was dedicated to helping those less fortunate. Uncle Pete, as he was referred to, once said, "You look at your hands and say 'What can I do with my hands?' Oh, what these hands can do for you. You'll be amazed," he said. "They help you do the work of God." Please come join the Servants of St. Francis on December 14th and 15th for this service opportunity.

CHICAGO OUTREACH

Saturday, December 14 - 8 am-12 pm or 12 pm-4 pm. Our Lady of Angels Neighborhood Christmas Party. If you are interested in volunteering to help please contact Our Lady of Angels directly at 773-486-8431.

♦ Mission of Our Lady of the Angels Community Dinner - January 29, 2014 - 3:30 pm–8:00 pm Join us to prepare & serve a meal to those in need. These community dinners give the neighborhood an opportunity to pray, enjoy a meal & foster family and community relations based on Christian values. Schedule: 3:30 setup, 5:30 prayer service, 6:00 dinner and cleanup. See the parish website for more details & to reserve your spot. Ages 13 & older welcome with an adult.

The Servants of St. Francis are collecting Jewel Stamps for

Rachel Ray Dinnerware, from now through December.

The dinnerware will be distributed at our St. Paul Food Pantry in the spring. Please leave your stamps in the boxes provided at the entrances of church, or

drop them off at the rectory to the attention of the Servants of St. Francis.

SOCIAL SERVICE MINISTRY ADRIENNE TIMM, DIRECTOR

(847) 692-6767 adriennetimm@spc-church.org

2nd Sunday of Advent Page 9

The Park Ridge Catholic Woman’s Club will meet on Monday, December 9th at 12:15 pm at the Park Ridge Recreational Center, 833 Talcott Road, Park Ridge.

There will be a musical program presented by the choral group, “The Harmonaires.”

Members are asked to bring their favorite Christmas cookies to share and enjoy with punch, tea and coffee.

SOCIAL SERVICE MINISTRY ADRIENNE TIMM, DIRECTOR

(847) 692-6767 adriennetimm@spc-church.org

SUBURBAN OUTREACH

♦ Sunday Potluck Luncheon - Timothy’s Ministry - Sunday, February 2, 2014 - 12:30 pm-3:00pm Join others from St. Paul of the Cross as we prepare and serve a meal to those in need at Timothy's Ministry in Arlington Heights. We will be hosting a luncheon for approximately 100 people. We will prepare dishes, set up, serve & cleanup after the luncheon. Adults & children over the age of 5 may participate with an adult. 30 volunteers are needed. We hope you can join us. See parish website for details and to reserve your spot. www.spc-church.org

♦ Suburban Outreach and the St. Paul of the Cross School’s Green Team cordially invite you to participate in: A POST-CHRISTMAS ELECTRONICS RECYCLING EVENT hosted by Recycling Avenues, a program of Avenues to Independence, that provides employment opportunities for adults who have intellectual, physical and developmental disabilities.

SPC School: January 10, 2014 - 2:30 pm–3:30 pm SPC Parish Event: January 11, 2014 - 4 pm–6 pm

January12, 2014 - 9 am–1 pm

Your donation makes a big difference! 1 recycled laptop or 3 recycled cell phones =1 day’s work for an employee

Did You Know? Just the chemicals in one cell phone can pollute up to 158,000 gallons of water. You can help keep the environment clean by donating items that daily fill our landfills with toxins.

Items Recycling Avenues Accepts: Recycling Avenues accepts a wide range of small electronics including: cell phones, laptops, E-Book readers, inkjet cartridges, ink toners (large), MP3 players, 35 mm, digital and video cameras, GPS devices, graphic calculators, radar detectors, Apple products, small electronic handheld devices or game consoles, flat screen computer monitors (LCD), rechargeable batteries, house phones, computer chips, and hard drives.

Items Recycling Avenues Does Not Accept: Printers, CRT monitors, computer towers and fax machines, DVD players or keyboards cannot be collected at this time. For large items, please contact your nearest Best Buy or Good Will Center for recycling information.

Page 10 December 8, 2013

From the School….

Operation Warm Hug

We are inviting the families of St. Paul of the Cross to help bring a little warmth to

those in need. We will be collecting donations of new or gently used winter coats, hats, gloves, mittens, and

scarves to be sent to children at The Academy of St. Benedict the African at 6020 S. Lafin in Chicago.

Principal Murphy of St. Benedict says that many children at this school come with inadequate winter

clothing and she would like to see every child warmly dressed when they go to recess and at dismissal.

Items may be dropped off in each of the SPC school offices, M-F between 8-2 pm.

The clothing will be collected all during the December.

Thank you in advance for your generous response!

TODAY, Sunday, December 8th 10:30 am - 5:30 pm

Barnes & Noble - Village Crossing Skokie

2 Schools, 2 Faith Filled Communities, 1 Christmas Wish, Peace on Earth

Come support SPC & Epiphany schools with our only book fair this year. Students and teachers will provide entertainment, candy cane hunts, gift wrapping & other

activities throughout the day.

Earn more for our school by shopping Barnes & Noble: www.boxtops4education.com from 12/8/13 to 12/13/13.

Use our online code 11045093 when checking out.

A percentage of your Barnes & Noble purchases will benefit our school.

Buy Raffle Tickets in School at lunch or send monies with your child to school in a envelope marked:

“SPC Book Fair Raffle”

You name will be entered into the raffle!

Tickets $1 each

You could win one of two Amazon KindleFireHD ‘s

or gift certificates to local merchants!

Book Fair Schedule

11:00 - 11:30 Candy Cane Hunt-Find lucky candy canes & win B&N gift card! 11:00 - 11:30 SPC Choir 11:30 - 12:00 Epiphany Choir 12:15 Candy Cane Hunt-Find lucky candy canes & win B&N gift card! 12:30 - 1:00 Mrs. Bobroff, Mrs. G, Father Britto 1:00 - 1:30 Father Britto - Purchase a First Communion Prayer Book or a Bible and Fr. Britto will bless them. 1:00 - 1:30 SPC Band 2:00 - 3:00 Mrs. B, Mrs. Youkhana, Ms. Caronia 3:00 - 3:30 Ms. Caronia healthy eating game 3:00 - 4:00 Strings

SPC Together with Epiphany

Dear Friends,

My daughter-in-law, who is also Kathleen Jacobs, is from Washington, IL, the town that was so devastated by a tornado on Sunday, Nov. 18. Kathleen and my son, David, have been helping to coordinate relief donations at Kathleen’s hometown church, St. Patrick. Kathleen has suggested that if you were planning on donating to the tornado relief you may consider donating directly to St. Patrick Church. 100% of donations will be given directly to the people of Washington. Nothing will be taken out for administration. About 90 families from St. Patrick Parish suffered losses from the tornado. Donations can be sent to:

St. Patrick Parish Office c/o Tornado Relief Fund 705 East Jefferson Washington, IL 61571

If you would like more information regarding helping the people of Washington, you can email me at kbj@wordpatterns.com.

Thank you,

Kathleen Jacobs, first grade teacher

The Power of Faith

The majority of U.S. teenagers expressed that religion is a positive

force in individuals' lives and in society. Teenagers believe that

religion helps provide people with strong moral foundations.

Soul Searching: The Religious & Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers

Strong Catholic Family Prayer Corner As you put up the family Christmas tree, give thanks to God for the gift of lights to remind us of Jesus coming into the world and special ornaments

that remind us of family and friends and holidays past.

Remind your children of the reason for the season - the birth of Christ must be the central focus of your holiday celebrations. As you light the candles on the

Advent wreath and put the lights on the tree, reflect on how you can be the light of Christ to others this season.

From the School….

Save your WHITE block Styrofoam from the landfills

this holiday season. Most of the Styrofoam disposed of today will still be

present in landfills 500 years from now!

Styrofoam blocks will be responsibly collected December 18 - January 8

Packing peanuts will not be accepted. (Packing peanuts can be easily dropped off at the

Park Ridge UPS Store: 310 Busse Highway).

Drop off location for WHITE block styrofoam:

Park Ridge Public Works 400 Busse Hwy, Park Ridge

7am – 3pm

Do One Thing (DOT)

Here is an idea for your DOT: Remember the 5 W’s when shopping:

Don’t only think of Who the items are for, try to remember Who made the item, What they used to make it,

Where the item was made as well as Where it will go when someone is done with it, When the item was made, and Why and How your purchase can make an impact. Every dollar you spend is a vote for a company; telling

them, make more of this, I like it!. Try to come up with a better understanding of fair trade, for the sake of the

people who spend time making beautiful items as well as for the sake of the same people who are trying to live a

better life because of your purchase. Get connected with items you plan to purchase this holiday season and make great decisions. Don’t just do it once, think of making an

effort to consistently support Fair Trade. Be Inspired. Leave your DOT on this earth

(at least it’s not a footprint!).

2nd Sunday of Advent Page 11

Page 12 December 8, 2013

PERPETUAL EUCHARISTIC ADORATION CHAPEL

ARE WE LISTENING TO THE BLESSED MOTHER?

On Monday of this week, December 9th, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. It honors Mary, Our

Mother, who was privileged to be born without original sin. It is the Patronal Feast day of our country since Mary is our patroness.

A number of historians have stated their belief that the formation of our country was guided by Divine Providence---that there was a

special purpose for our country in the world. It is fitting that the Church announced that the Blessed Virgin Mary was made the

patroness of the U.S.A. It was hoped that this “model of holiness” would be the guide for all of us. However, today, in our country and in the world, we see our God being pushed out of our lives, out of our very existence because of our materialistic, secularistic and even in some instances, a hedonistic life-style and we are experiencing the dysfunction of our government.

In apparition after apparition, the Blessed Mother has told our country and the world that we must change or face terrible times of tribulation. She has given us guidance as to what humanity must do to change the course to perdition that we are on.

In our Eucharistic Adoration Chapel, we can pray for the guidance that we need. We will then realize that Mary is talking to us, individually and not to just our neighbors. We are the ones causing this divergence from God and must be the ones to offer our prayers to Jesus in the Chapel for a “new life” for our country. In that Sacred White Host is the prescription for the Resurrection of our country and the world. The voice of the Blessed Mother is getting louder and louder.

When a child is described as a burden or is looked upon only as a means to satisfy an emotional need,

we will stand up and insist that every child is a unique and unrepeatable gift of God,

with the right to a loving and united family.

Pope John Paul II October 7, 1979

OPEN HOURS:

ONE COMMITTED ADORER HOURS

If you choose an hour which already has one

Committed Adorer, this enables the Committed Adorers for that hour

to have some flexibility, if they are unable to

be at the Chapel for their hour.

Can You Share One Hour With Our Lord? Please contact Bob Maszka bobpeap@wmconnect.com, or call 847-825-1869.

Day Night Morning Afternoon Evening Sun 3 am 8 am 5 pm 7 pm Mon 2 am * 4 pm 11 pm Tues 12 am 6 am 3 pm 6 pm Wed 4 am * 12 pm 11 pm Thur 5 am 10 am 2 pm 7 pm Fri 3 am 7 am 1 pm 10 pm Sat 2 am 11 am 5 pm 8 pm *These hours have at least 2 Committed Adorers

Day Night Morning Afternoon Evening Tues 3 am 12 pm Thur 2 am Thur 3 am Fri 12 pm Sat 3 am 4 pm Sat 4 am

Our Lighthouse Catholic CDs kiosk, located at the Northwest

Hwy door, is restocked and ready for you to browse and pick-up some CDs for yourself, family

and friends.

Some of our NEW TITLES are:

• The True Meaning of Christmas by Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen

• Prepare the Way of the King by Scott Hahn

• Mary, Handmaid of the Lord by Blessed Mother Teresa

• How to Bring Fallen Away Catholics Back

• and others on our faith and life today.

Come and see the inspiring and insightful selection.

2nd Sunday of Advent Page 13

Volunteers meet in the kitchen off of the Holy Family Chapel (church basement).

Thank you for your support…May God Bless you!

Christmas Shoebox Project Sponsored by St. Catherine of Siena Guild

We are pleased to invite you to participate in the St. Paul of the Cross Annual Christmas Shoebox Project for disadvantaged men and women in the Chicago area. Your boxes will be given to the Salvation Army Shelter,

St. Vincent de Paul Center, and Catholic Charities. To make your shoebox: ⇒ Line it with tissue paper, wrap in Christmas paper with the lid separate. ⇒ DO NOT SEAL OR TAPE SHUT as each box must be opened and checked. ⇒ Include 2 or more items from each group below. ⇒ Add a Christmas card or note signed: From a member of St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church. ⇒ Mark on the outside “MAN” or “WOMAN.” ⇒ Place a sturdy rubber band around the box.

Collection Dates: Sunday Catechesis: Dec. 8 & 15 Regular & Family Catechesis Dec. 3, 5, 10 &12 St. Paul Students week of Dec. 9 All Parishioners (leave at church entrances) Dec. 8 & 15

Questions: call Marcy Calkins (847) 542-3486

Service: 6th,7th, 8th Graders looking for a service activity, contact Mary Ann Mallahan at (847) 698-7789 or mallahan1019@comcast.net. You can sign up for the following times:

4-5:30 pm on Tuesdays & Thursdays 7-8:30 pm on Tuesdays 9:30-11:00 am on Sundays

New Clothing Items -Knit Hats -Gloves or Mittens -Socks -Scarves

Odds ‘N Ends Playing Cards Kleenex ( small pkg) Puzzles or books Wet Ones Pens.Pencils,Stationery

Toiletrries Travel/Sample size of: Toothbrush/toothpaste Deodorant Shampoo/comb/brush Face/hand lotion NO MOUTHWASH

Edibles Small packaged: -Cheese & crackers -Granola Bar -Cookies -Candy, etc.

Will you say yes to the Lord?

During Advent, we hear how Mary said yes to God’s will and gave birth to our Savior.

What is the Lord asking of you and will you say yes like our mother, Mary? Please pray for vocations during this Advent season.

Any questions about vocations, please contact Fr. Britto at the rectory.

The St. Paul of the Cross

Book Group will meet Monday, January 6th to discuss The Sense of an Ending

by Julian Barnes The Book Group will meet again on

Monday, January 27th to discuss Interpreter of Maladies

by Jhumpa Lahiri. Both meetings begin at 7:30 pm in the Morello Center Meeting Room.

All are welcome.

SPC Trivia Night! Friday, January 24th, 2014 - Parish Life Center

Join the company of your friends & family and share your knowledge of everything from pop culture to Catholic theology in our very own SPC Trivia Contest! Pick a theme, decorate your table, and dress accordingly!

Bring snacks, food and drinks for your table and enjoy the festivities. This event is for adults only (over 21). Prizes awarded for top trivia teams and best costumes/themes.

Doors open at 6:30 PM for table decoration. Trivia starts promptly at 7:30 PM Price of Tickets: $20 per individual or $160 per table of eight

All tickets will be held at the door. All proceeds from the event will benefit the St. Paul of the Cross Parish Educational Endowment Fund.

Please reserve my tickets to this entertaining evening

_______Number of Individual Tickets at $20 each _______Full Table(s) of eight at $160 each _______I cannot attend but would like to make a donation to the Fund

Ticket Reservation Form (Please Return Ticket Reservation Form to the School Office or Rectory)

Name: ________________________________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________________

Phone Number___________________________________________________________________

Email Address: __________________________________________________________________

Amount Enclosed: ______________________ Check # _______________________

If you have any questions, please call the rectory at 847-825-7605

Happy December! Please mark your calendars for what is happening for the month of December. Also, registration for our Retreat and the Archdiocese Ski Trip will be happening in the coming weeks. Please make sure to hand in all registrations forms on time as we have strict deadlines to meet. Thank you! Thank you to everyone who donated Hats and Gloves for our drive!

Here is what’s happening: Adopt a Family—We have 4 families that still need to be adopted. If you or a group of teens are interested please

email me ASAP and I will send you all the information. All Gifts are due by December 20th! December 8th—Movie Night at the Pickwick—we will be seeing Mary of Nazareth (the 5:00 PM showing) and

will than come back to SPC for Pizza and a discussion about this incredible film—the tickets are first come, first serve and I have 10 available. Email me if you would like to join!

December 10th—Teen Meeting from 7:30 to 8:30 in the Kinane Center Teen Room (we will be discussing our Room Renovation so if you are creative we need you there!)

December 22nd—Teen Hosted Mass 10:30 Downstairs—Christmas Party to follow right after Mass! Deadline for the Retreat is January 13th & for the All Night Ski Trip January 10th. Forms emailed & on website. We will be helping out at OLA but that date is still TBD.

Page 14 December 8, 2013

2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time Page 15

Get Involved at St. Paul of the Cross!

St. Paul of the Cross welcomes you to pick up a copy of our new Ministry Directory. Our directory contains information on our programs and ministries, with a table of contents and an index to make it easier to find the information that you need. Copies are located at the exits of the church.

If you have any questions about our ministry booklet, please contact the parish office: 847-825-7605.

NURSE’S NOTES……….

Hello everyone! Ah, breakfast. Or is it ugh, breakfast? There are many folks who don’t eat breakfast; some can’t eat first thing in the morning, others may not have the time, etc. But it may be worthwhile to rethink consuming breakfast for the sake of our health. We have heard that those of us who regularly skip breakfast tend to be heavier than those of us who regularly eat breakfast. There are other reasons

to make breakfast an important part of our daily routine. Through research we’ve learned that not only is excess weight a side effect of the un-breakfasted, but hypertension (high blood pressure) and the

development of insulin resistance (a precursor to diabetes), can also occur. New research from Harvard University indicates that consistently consuming breakfast lowers the risk of heart disease. Skipping breakfast and other meals may be connected to increased levels of the blood

fats triglycerides and LDL (low density lipoproteins), both not desirable. Unhappily, the HDL (high density lipoproteins --the good cholesterol) levels become lower. Skipping breakfast appears to raise

our cortisol levels. Cortisol is the stress hormone. Normally our cortisol levels rise in the morning in conjunction with awakening from sleep. This rise helps us wake up. When we eat breakfast, those cortisol levels normalize then and for the remainder of the day barring any unforeseen stressors. So, breakfast is a good thing, but if conventional breakfast foods are not appealing, why not try something unconventional like a turkey sandwich on a whole grain bagel or a protein rich soup with a whole grain muffin, etc. A lean source of protein with some complex carbohydrates like fruit, veggies, whole grains, etc. and a small amount of healthy fat can be a great way to start the day. Nutrients that can help our heart health in particular are omega-3 fatty acids (fatty fish, nuts), vitamin D (dairy foods, eggs, fortified foods, sunshine), magnesium (dark green veggies), arginine for our blood vessels (nuts, tuna, egg yolks), the B vitamins (fruit, veggies, pork), and pomegranate juice and garlic. And there’s olive oil. One of our healthiest fats, but various factors can adversely effect this lovely oil. Age, exposure to air and light and the temperature of where it is stored can all help olive oil become rancid. The amount of antioxidants in the olive at the time of picking can also affect the length of time it may take for the oil to become rancid. So, how to know if the olive oil is past its prime? Here, the nose may know….but first, checking the expiration date that should be on the container is a good idea. If the oil smells like crayons or rancid nuts it may be over the hill. Also, there may be other odors like sweaty socks (not a pleasant thought), or vinegar or wine or a musty scent. Should olive oil smell like any of these immediately after purchase (or while stored at home), returning it to the purveyor (quickly after purchase) may be a good idea. These odors apply to olive oil per se, unless there’s an added Ingredient that is heavily fragranced like basil and garlic, which can disguise an oil that’s rancid. Taste can also play a part here. Olive oil usually has a light, pleasant taste which can vary somewhat due to the country of origin and processing. Some of the heavier olive oils are best suited for cooking. FYI: Turmeric, the yellowish spice used in various cuisines (like India), contains curcumin which we are finding, is a powerful foe of developing cancer and inflammation and may be helpful for depression, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s. Curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier which may account for it’s helpful qualities. And, it’s delicious! During these busy, stressful days let’s take a mini-respite and listen to a lovely, inspirational piece of music. Two that immediately come to mind are, “Breath of Heaven” (or Mary’s Song) and “The Prayer.” Sitting or standing for a minute or two, listening to the lyrics and melody can be like taking a deep breath. Until next week, let’s remember that, “there are no strangers on Christmas Eve.”

Fondly, Linda Burk, Your Parish Nurse

Page 16 December 8, 2013

Monday, December 9 - Immaculate Conception 6:25 Mass 8:30 Mass

Tuesday, December 10 - Advent Weekday 6:25 Anne Coyle, intentions of Barny Peters 8:30 Bill Royal, Edward Wargo, Sr., Victor J. Habisohn

Wednesday, December 11 - Advent Weekday 6:25 Helen O’Brien, Mario LaMacchia 8:30 Ebrom family, Jeanne Fillinsky, Carani family

Thursday, December 12 – Our Lady of Guadalupe 6:25 blessings on Jill LeCompte & family, poor souls in purgatory 8:30 Rose Heil, Ardis Dumalski, Anne Coyle

Friday, December 13 - St. Lucy 6:25 Elizabeth Ruettinger, Frances LaMacchia 8:30 Impasto family, Dr. John Kurkowski, Philip James, Melina & Mary Jane Miller

Saturday, December 14 - St. John of the Cross 8:00 John Reckert, Mary Anne & Cathleen Marie Novak 4:30 UP Martin & Margaret Heneghan, Joan Kriz, Strzyz & Bury families, Thaddeus Wendell 4:30 DN Bruno & Mara Giannetti, Florence Mazzone Sunday, December 15 - 3rd Sunday of Advent 7:30 UP Jean Fillinsky, 70th anniversary of August & Bernadette Walters 9:00 UP Josephine Bove, Ann Coyle, Dolores Roe, Don Stahl 9:00 DN Spalding family 10:30 UP Dockery family, Brendan Crawley, Ray & Ann Wetzel 10:30 DN Julia Prindiville, Dennis Murphy 12:00 UP Ardis Dumalski, Thomas Joseph Holbrook 5:30 Mass

MASSES FOR THE WEEK

Liturgical Ministers’ Schedule for the weekend of December 14 & December 15

Our prayers go out to all who serve

our country.

Day & Time Presider Lector Eucharistic Ministers Altar Servers

Saturday 4:30 up Fr. Muraya Sullivan,

Plencner Ramirez, Silkowski, Loftus, Korcz, Prindiville, Komornicki, Mulcrone

Kuhlman, Kuhlman, Maloney

Saturday 4:30 dn Fr. John Divis,

Welton Kwiatkoski, Lombardi

Sunday 7:30 Fr. Britto Patejunas,

Elegbe Cooney, Scanlan, Orzada, Orzada, Hennelly, Huber, Ginger

Leahy, Kure, McCarthy

Sunday 9:00 up Fr. Marshall Tallman,

Nowakowski Ahern, Bull, Garvey, Garvey, Ryan, Swoboda, Hegarty

Bull, Micucci, McGreevy

Sunday 9:00 dn Fr. Smilanic Dallmeyer,

Dolan Kapustiak, Lally

Sunday 10:30 up Fr. John Derrick,

Schelhammer Murphy, O’Neill, Ritter, Scheller, Shannon, McDonald, Kohlndorfer

Ritter, Miulli, Mueller

Sunday 10:30 dn Fr. Smilanic Manos,

Cossini Glasbrook, Ma-loney

Sunday 12:00 Fr. Muraya Cornille,

Frances Adlaf, Adlaf, Naum, Meehan, Kamienski, Cornille, Cornille

Marino, Marino, Meer

Sunday 5:30 Fr. Britto Soifer,

McCormick McDermott, McDermott

Those Who Are Ill: Dennis Domanchuk, Joan Bertram, Veronica Gabriel, Madalyn Carrol,

Christine Sloper, Ed Sloper, Sr. Josephine Berchmans,

Tom Meehan, Lucille Jansen, Ernie Komornicki, Peg Basile,

Rev. John Cassidy, Jim Cassidy, Jean Zurawski, Julie Koenig,

Brenda Prince, Dolores Hester, Jimmy Rancich, Ernest Valdes,

Eileen Fitzsimmons, Genieve Novak, Mildred Szapielak, Peter Faraci,

Baby Jayce Conley, Don Holzinger, Judy Donovan

Those Who Have Died: Robert Daul,

Joan Smedley, Anthony Kemp,

William Deering, Catherine Allabastro,

Leonard Falcone.

REV. BRITTO M. BERCHMANS, Pastor frbritto@spc-church.org

REV. JOHN P. CHRZAN, Associate Pastor frjohn@spc-church.org

REV. ANTHONY MURAYA, Associate Pastor frmuraya@spc-church.org

REV. DANIEL A. SMILANIC, Resident dsmilanic@archchicago.org

ALOYSIUS J. MEMMEL, ROBERT T. BULGER, ANDREW P. CAMERON, Deacons

MASSES Sunday: 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM (Up & Down), 10:30 AM (Up & Down), 12:00 PM, 5:30 PM Monday - Friday: 6:25 AM, 8:30 AM Saturday: 8:00 AM, 4:30 PM (UP) 4:30 PM (Down)

CONFESSIONS Monday-Friday: 8-8:15 AM (Reconciliation Room in vestibule) Thursday: 3:30 to 5 PM (Opus Dei Priest) Saturday: 3:00 to 4:00 PM

BAPTISMS 1:15 PM ceremony every Sunday of each month. Please call the rectory to register for Baptism. An instruction class for parents provided. (Baptismal Preparation Class - 4th Thursday of every month at 7:00 PM in the Morello Parish Life Center). Please call the rectory to register for the preparation class.

MARRIAGES Arrange with priest or deacon at least 6 months in advance.

NEW PARISHIONER REGISTRATION First Sunday of every month in the

Morello Parish Life Center from 8:30 AM to Noon.

ANOINTING OF THE SICK First Saturday of each month: After the 8:00 AM Mass.

COMMUNION FOR THE HOMEBOUND Call the rectory and leave a message for Kathy Bulger

ROSARY Monday - Friday: Prayed after the 8:30 AM Mass. Saturday: Prayed after the 8:00 AM Mass.

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION CHAPEL 215 RIDGE TERRACE

Open 24 Hours a Day

*During the hours of 6 AM to 9 PM, enter through the Mother Cabrini Garden Entrance. *During the hours of 9 PM to 6 AM, enter through the Kinane Center front door.

Visit us on the web: www.spc-church.org

RECTORY 320 South Washington Phone Number (847) 825-7605 Fax Number (847) 825-5186 Web Address www.spc-church.org RECTORY OFFICE HOURS: M-F 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM

BUSINESS MANAGER Joan Macpherson joanmacpherson@spc-church.org

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTS Parish Office: Patricia Adlaf patadlaf@spc-church.org Joanne Stewart joannestewart@spc-church.org Michele Yarbrough, Communications & Pastor’s Administrative Assistant micheleyarbrough@spc-church.org

ST. PAUL SCHOOL (847) 825-6366 Lorelei Bobroff, Principal Web Address www.spc-school.net

CATECHESIS (847) 692-2758 Anna Mae Parkhill, Director annamaeparkhill@spc-church.org Web Address www.spc-catechesis.net

PASTORAL ASSOCIATE (847) 825-7605 Deacon Bob Bulger bobbulger@spc-church.org

MUSIC MINISTRY (847) 825-7605 Edward J. Eicker, Director edwardeicker@spc-church.org Andrea Bartolomeo, Assistant Director andreabartolomeo@spc-church.org

SOCIAL SERVICE MINISTRY (847) 692-6767 Adrienne Timm, Director adriennetimm@spc-church.org

YOUTH MINISTRY (847) 825-7605 Caroline Hopkinson carolinehopkinson@spc-church.org

PARISH NURSE (847) 692-6727 Linda Burk, R.N.,B.S.

BULLETIN (847) 692-6024 Judy Kaplan judykaplan@spc-church.org

*PARISH BULLETIN DEADLINE: Monday by 10 am

*PULPIT ANNOUNCEMENT DEADLINE: Thursday by Noon in the Rectory