In going the way, Jesus brought word of His Father to many people as He instructed and healed those who came to Him.

He told them God’s love was real by word and deed.

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Mission Statement : The Roman Catholic Saint Thomas More Parish Family welcomes and invites every person to join us on our journey in faith and celebration. With the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and through Sacred Scripture and Tradition, we proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all, especially in loving service to those in need.

As part of the Universal Church, we affirm the dignity of every person. All this we do to give glory and honor to God.

Pastoral Staff Pastor ........................ Reverend Michael J. Yadron, KCHS; Ext. 2312 myadron@stm-church.com Priest In Residence ................. Reverend Andrew J. Corona; Ext. 2314 acorona@stm-church.com Senior Deacon ........................................... Dr. Napoleon Tabion, OFS Senior Deacon .................................................. Daniel Zurawski, KHS Deacons ................................................................. David Kapala, KHS ............................................................................ Joseph Stodola, KHS Director of Finance ...................................... Noreen Bickel; Ext. 2330 Pastoral Care Coordinator ...... Deacon David Kapala, KHS; Ext. 2315 Director of Music ...................................... Angie Lorandos; Ext. 2338 Director of Religious Education ................... Emily Hackett; Ext. 2332

St. Thomas More Religious Education Kindergarten through 8th Grade

Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Friday — 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday & Thursday — 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Religious Education Phone ........................................................... 836-8610 Director ................................................................ Emily Hackett; Ext. 2232 Administrative Assistant ............................... Rosemary Strimbu; Ext. 2236

Grades K through 8 • Wednesday or Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Pastoral Commissions Chairpersons Formation/Education ............................................................. Allen Blocher Parish Life......................................................................... Elaine Herrmann Peace & Social Justice ................................................................ Mari Casas Spirituality & Worship....................................................... Kaaren Mashura Stewardship ..........................................................................Paul Liszewski

Parish Organizations Altar & Rosary Society ........................................ Cindy Keilman 923-9862 Boy Scouts ......................................................... PJ Caraher (219) 838-2943 Career Networking Group…………………… Jim Kaczka (219) 201-0335 Circle of Prayer…………………………………..Carolyn Cenko 741-2509 carolynrealtor@sbcglobal.net Cub Scouts ……………………...Kevin Ranos Kevin.ranos@sbcglobal.net Finance ................................................................ Barbara Shaver 838-9200 Gabriel Project………………………………... Marilyn Glennon 801-6586 Garden Club ............................................................ Paul Mazerik 644-8409 Gifts of Love & Warmth……………………..Bernadine Nemeth 513-6544 Girl Scouts ............................................................ Renee Whelan 796-6809 Holy Name Society ...................................................... Bill Burke 322-6462 Knights of Columbus ...................................... Joe Janostak (219) 923-3699 Oblates………………………………………...Denise Gard (219)201-4103 Respect Life ..................................................Leslie Dernulc (219)741-3739 Senior Citizens ..................................................... Bob O’Donnell 877-5050 Ushers Club .................................................... ….Jim Marmalejo 836-1463 Venture Crew……………………………………....Fr. Ben Ross 322-4505

St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 8501 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN 46321

Sacramental Information Confessions Saturdays ............................................................. 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. First Friday ............. …………..1/2 hour before the 6:30 a.m. Mass Baptisms ............................... First and Third Sundays at 1:00 p.m.

Parents must be registered parishioners and regularly attending at least six months before the Baptism. At least one of the godparents must be a practicing Catholic.

Pre-Baptism Class .....................................2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Parents must call the Parish Office to schedule class and/or Baptism. Marriage .............. Must be a registered, practicing member of the parish at least six months before beginning the six month preparation program for marriage.

Communion calls and visits to Hospitals and Homebound: Call the Parish Office for Sacraments at hospital or at home.

New Parishioner Registration To make it as convenient as possible for you,

new parishioners may register at any time in the Parish Office.

Stop in during the day, or take advantage or our convenient evening and Saturday office hours.

St. Thomas More Parish Website: www.stm-church.com

Parish Office Staff

Hours: Mon-Friday 8:00 am-8:00 pm • Saturday 8:00 am-2:00 pm Email address.................................. parish.office@stm-church.com Email address for bulletin...................... bulletin@stm-church.com Office Phone………. 836-8610 Office Fax .................... 836-9185 Bulletin Editor ................................................... Pam Pasyk; Ext. 2309 Daytime Receptionist ...................................... Susan Strain; Ext. 2300 Evening Receptionist ............................................................ .Ext. 2330 Building Maintenance…………..Mike Popovich 836-8610, Ext. 2313 Custodial Supervisor…………….Karla Baldwin 836-8610, Ext. 2331

Pastoral Ministries Environment & Art ....................................... Susan Gryfakis 688-8209 Eucharistic Ministers ........................ Deacon Dan Zurawski 742-6005 Hospitality/Greeters .................................... Chris Shearman 923-1419 Lectors ...................................................... William McDunn 922-9459 Nursery .................................................. Kaaren A. Mashura 836-5079 St. Vincent de Paul ................................. Michael Martinelli 836-8610 Vocations Committee ...................................... Mary Kochis 322-7262

2018-2019 Pastoral Council Members Thomas Alexander ................................................... Bernadine Barrett Carolyn Cenko................................................................ Diane DeSoto Deborah Jarvis ....................................................................Tim Jevyak Jim Kaspar ................................................................... Christi Kordeck Paul Liszewski..................................................................... Eric Miller Dwight Reed ................................................. Jim Secviar, Chairperson

St. Thomas More School Pre-School through 8th Grade

Office Hours: Monday– Friday • 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Website .............................................................www.stm-school.com School Phone .......... 836-9151 School Fax ......................... 836-0982 President ....................................................... Noreen Bickel; Ext. 2330 Principal ........................................... Dr. Samantha Francis; Ext. 2258 School Administrative Assistant………..Jennifer Gonzalez; Ext. 2200 School Reception & Office Associate……Nereida Harretos; Ext. 2201 School Parent Association………...Shannon Pischner; (219) 306-7551 Parish & School Offices Associate………...Mary Jo Biscan; Ext. 2311 School Admission……………………………... Pam Pasyk; Ext. 2309 Director of Development………………….…Karen Leluga; Ext. 2307 Business Manager………………………Mike Gutchewsky; Ext. 2339

Weis Center — Preschool & Pre-K 8635 Calumet Avenue • Munster, IN 46321

Phone ..................................................................................... 836-2660 Fax ......................................................................................... 836-2655

Please remember St. Thomas More in your Will and Estate Planning

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Sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time February 17, 2019

SUNDAY, February 17 — Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Eugene Sepaniak (Ann.) by Celine Szczepaniak 10:00 am John & Lottie Spudic by Ed & Carolyn Smiley 12:00 pm Marion (Red) Fulte by Kathleen Pagorek MONDAY, February 18 6:30 am Bob McMenamin by Michael & Martha Smith 8:30 am Bernie Mashura by Jo Ann Sills TUESDAY, February 19 6:30 am Maryann King Pancheri (Ann.) by Medellin Family 8:30 am Jerome Baker (Ann.) by Gus & Kathy Georgelas 10:00 am Joseph Szot by STM Holy Name Society (MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 4) WEDNESDAY, February 20 6:30 am Rosemary Balka by Michalik Family 8:30 am Judy Barker Jensen by Tom & Joan Keilman THURSDAY, February 21 — St. Peter Damian 6:30 am Martha Wolak by Phyllis Krizmanic 9:00 am Leroy Gauger (Ann.) by Virginia & Robert Gauger FRIDAY, February 22 — Chair of St. Peter 6:30 am Lilia Queyquep by Frank & Vera Paunicka 8:30 am Margaret Uhrin by Elaine Herrmann SATURDAY, February 23 — St. Polycarp 8:30 am Jeff Reed by Agnes Lauer 5:30 pm Evalyn Sluka by Nancy Druzbicki SUNDAY, February 24 — Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Judy Desmond by Tom & Kathy Bassetto 10:00 am John Rybicki (Ann.) by Wife & Family 12:00 pm Jack L. DeBoer (Ann.) by Wife Patricia DeBoer

Saturday, February 23 5:30 p.m. Fr. Mike Yadron

Sunday, February 24 6:30 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 8:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 10:00 a.m. Fr. Andrew Corona 12:00 Noon Fr. Andrew Corona

MONDAY, February 18 5:30 pm D. & V. James

SATURDAY, February 23 8:30 am E. & K. McComis 5:30 pm D. Urbaniak, E. & T. Zabrecky/MC ~ Ty SUNDAY, February 24 6:30 am A. Korfiatis, P. Olsen, S. O’Rourke 8:00 am J. Sajn, J. Serrano, P. Wujek/ MC ~ Matt 10:00 am A. Klaich, O. Lerma, M. McDunn MC ~ Emmaline 12:00 pm A. & D. Reynolds, A. Sanchez/ MC ~ Tim

Pastoral Care Ministry If you or a family member is a hospitalized or homebound St. Thomas More parishioner, arrange a Communion visit

by contacting Deacon Dave Kapala: (219) 836-8610, # 315 or dkapala@stm-church.com.

Sacrificial Offerings

Thank you for sharing your gift of treasure

with our parish!

February 10, 2019

Adult $ 25,994.42 Loose $ 2,439.00 Automated $ 3,140.00 Children $ 142.00

TOTAL $ 31,715.42

REFLECTION Stewardship

“Blessed are you when people hate you,…exclude and insult you, and denounce your name…on account of the Son of Man.”

(LUKE 6:22)

All of us have been in situations when someone has made a negative comment or joke about God or our Catholic faith. How did you respond? Did you stay silent or pretend to go along with

the crowd because you didn’t want to cause waves and then, later, you felt bad?

Know that God is with you all the time, the Holy Spirit will put the right words in your mouth.

Pray for the strength and courage to proclaim our faith to others, especially during uncomfortable situations.

Vocations Committee There is always hope!

Our Eucharistic liturgy is a re-awakening of the beauty of our faith and available each and every time we celebrate Mass. But we can’t celebrate Mass without our beloved priests.

Please join us, as we pray for more young men to enter the priesthood.

Pray at home or join us on any Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. in the Chapel as we pray together.

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lease pray for the sick of our parish... P Joshua Alvarez

Margaret Amatulli Mary Anhalt Doris Aurelio Maria Aurelio

Antonio Belmonte Mary Berry

Michael Berry Michael Billedo

Michael Blazevich Laverne Blumka

Diane Bochnowski Cheryl Bostrom

Arthur M. Branco Linda Braun

Stephany Burney Kathleen Burns

Paul Burns Dorothy Campbell James Campbell

Al Carollo Peter Castro

Janet Cattanach Jacqueline Morrow

Christian Willie Colby

Vincent Corsello Mike Curtain

Eleuterio Del Real Irene Dettmer

Jeanine Doescher Patrick Doran Alex Eiland

Sherlon Evans Heriberto Flores

Maria Flores John Forde

Bonnie Gabrione Phyllis Garber

Andrea Garritano Margaret Geary Emily Gibson

Dorothy Gillespie Margaret Good

Monica Gonzalez Howard Gralewski

Margaret Gray Susan Graff

James Grunewald

Mary Ellen Gullicks Amy Hayes Marie Henke

Marisol Hernandez Robert Hesek

Becky Hill Charlotte Hunt

Betty Ingbretson Joseph S. Iwan

Steve Izzo Elizabeth Jacob Barbara Jamrose Stanley Jayjack Robert Kalka

Carol Keilman Kelly Jean

Mark Kenney Irene Kerps Jean Kibler

James Klein, Sr. Janet Knight

Susan Kolodziej Richard Komyatte

Paul Kostalik Edward Kritzer Crystal Kurek Isabella Lappo

Annika LeMonier Chris LeMonier

Debbie LeMonier Nicklas LeMonier

Mike Lewis Kris Lisikiewicz Jo Lisiniewicz

Edward Liskiewicz Stanley Liskiewicz

Maria Lovell Marilyn Madsen

Brady Martin Larkin McKenzie Jenny Mendoza

Faye Meny Sandi Merlo Erin Meyer

Ann Miskovich Andrew Moll

Genevieve Mrvan Donna Nichols

Jim Nolan

Steven Nowaczyk Clare O’Brien

Donna O’Connor Kevin O’Neill Danny Ogren

James Pancheri Marty Pavovic

Johanna Petruch Andrew Pieczyrak Elizabeth Pilones

Ron Plewniak Sylvester Porras Dennis Powell Ronald Prus Jerry Reach

Timothy Ribble Jackie Roach Ann Sardella George Sauer Marie Schultz

Marianne Schwartz William Schwartz

Zachery Scriff James Secviar

Jim Seul Renee Shehan Nick Skinner Laurie Slazyk

Carolyn Smiley Deborah Stareck Georgianne Suto Florence Stevens

Rose Theis Gerardo Trevino Kathie Trudgian Anthony Ubuane

Phyllis Unkuri Tony Vanden Heuvel Raymond Vanderbok

Julia Vrbanich James Wachel Kathy Wachel

Marilyn (Vrabel) Warda Mark Wein

Anne Wisniewski Don Woszczynski Josephine Zagrocki

Cecilia Ziegler Cody Ziemkowski

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time When I was a child, I often thought of the Church as something

mystical and supernatural. I wasn't wrong in my understanding of the Body of Christ, for surely the Church has these characteristics.

However, even though we speak about the foundation of all we are as Church being the "mystery of Christ," Jesus became a man so that supernatural element could break into the natural world in a profound way. What we once could not see, we now see. What we saw as a God in a distant place now dwelt among us. It is one of the aspects of Catholicism that I have grown to appreciate the

most as I have matured: for a Catholic, the supernatural is natural. The communion of saints is heavenly and earthly

at the same time. The Beatitudes instruct us about this reality. Pope Francis reminds

us that holiness is "not about swooning in mystic rapture." Holiness is about living in the real world and doing extraordinary

things with our ordinary lives. Our stewardship way of life consists of actions in the natural world that have

extraordinary repercussions. Do not ever take your simple actions of generosity and love for

granted. As disciples called to a life of stewardship, we participate in something more profound than what we can see. We are

blessed to be called to follow Jesus, and we bring blessing to all those with whom we choose to share ourselves.

-Tracy Earl Welliver, MTS

MONDAY, February 18 President’s Day — School & Parish Offices Closed

TUESDAY, February 19 9:15 am Eucharistic Adoration (until 6:30 p.m.) ~ Chapel 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations ~ Chapel 6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet ~ Chapel 7:00 pm RCIA ~ Conference Room 7:00 pm Holy Name Society ~ Solar Room

WEDNESDAY, February 20 9:30 am Bible Study ~ Conference Room 4:30 pm Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 p.m.) 4:30 pm RCIC ~ Conference Room 6:30 pm Handbell Practice (until 7:45 p.m.) 7:00 pm Catholics Coming Home ~ Solar Room

THURSDAY, February 21 4:30 pm Religious Education Classes (until 6:00 p.m.) 6:30 pm Scripture Study ~ Conference Room 6:45 pm All Seasons Chorale ~ Church

FRIDAY, February 22 9:00 am Gifts of Love & Warmth ~ Conference Room

SATURDAY, February 23 9:00 am Pastoral Council ~ Conference Room 6:30 pm STMS Parent Trivia Night ~ Gym

SUNDAY, February 24 St. Vincent de Paul Food Collection at All Masses

Readings for Week of February 17 Sunday: Jer 17:5-8/Ps 1:1-2, 3, 4, 4, 6 [40:5a]/1 Cor 15:12, 16-20/Lk 6:17, 20-26 Monday: Gn 4:1-15, 25/Ps 50:1 and 8, 16bc-17, 20-21 [14a]/ Mk 8:11-13 Tuesday: Gn 6:5-8; 7:1-5, 10/Ps 29:1a and 2, 3ac-4, 3b and 9c-10 [11b]/Mk 8:14- 21 Wednesday: Gn 8:6-13, 20-22/Ps 116:12-13, 14-15, 18 -19 [17a]/Mk 8:22-26 Thursday: Gn 9:1-13/Ps 102:16- 18, 19-21, 29 and 22- 23 [20b]/Mk 8:27-33 Friday: 1 Pt 5:1-4/Ps 23:1-3a, 4, 5, 6 [1]/Mt 16:13-19 Saturday: Heb 11:1-7/Ps 145:2-3, 4-5, 10-11 [cf. 1]/Mk 9:2- 13 Next Sunday: 1 Sm 26:2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23/Ps 103:1-2, 3-4, 8, 10, 12-13 [8a]/1 Cor 15:45-49/Lk 6:27-38

Bulletin Deadlines We appreciate all contributions to our parish bulletin and will

include on a space available basis. Please be sure to submit information at least two (2) weeks in

advance via email to bulletin@stm-church.com. Thank you for your input to make our bulletin a great

representation of our active parish.

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The Pastor’s Page

PLEASE REMEMBER THEM Please pray for the priests and deacons who have served the Diocese of Gary so faithfully and whose anniversaries of death are this week:

February 18: Rev. Theodore A. Janicki (1983) February 19: Msgr. William E. Sweigart (1970)

LEADERSHIP

“A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” ~ John C. Maxwell

This week, we celebrate Presidents’ Day. Originally derived from the celebration of the birthdays of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and others, it has morphed into a celebration of all of our Presidents. As our country was established, our Founding Fathers looked to what would be the best model of government. They wanted to be able to surface leaders who would keep the country intact and going in a certain direction.

Leadership is an important quality for a president to have. That person must, indeed, know the way, go the way, and show the way. If that person succeeds in doing so, the people will rally around that leader. If not, they will look for another.

Leadership is not only important in presidents, leadership is important in our faith. We need leaders who know the way, go the way, and show the way. People like St. Francis of Assisi and Mother Teresa of Calcutta quickly come to mind when I think about this definition of leadership. They knew the way and traveled the way daily. At great cost and, perhaps, even in great peril, they would follow the Lord. Not only that, they would invite others to come with them on their journey to the Kingdom.

That same quality of leadership is something that each and every one of us is called to emulate. Jesus challenges us to know the way, go the way, and show the way. He did the same. In His life, Jesus knew the way to His Father. He knew the way was to teach, to love, and to serve God’s people.

Knowing the way, though, is only the beginning. We can all know where we must go. We have to put that knowledge into action. We must go the way. Jesus did just that. In going the way, He brought word of His Father to many people as He instructed and healed those who came to Him. He told them God’s love was real by word and deed.

In doing so, Jesus showed His followers what must be done. His teaching was basic and loving. At the same time, it was very specific, “As I have done, so you must do.” He showed His followers that they must be ready, at all times, to do the work of God.

It is incumbent upon us to continue that mission of Jesus. We already know the way. Jesus has made the way very clear to us. He is the way. We must go His way in order to be able to show the way to those who have not yet had the opportunity to hear about God and His great love for us all.

FAITH ACTION: Ask God to give you the gifts that you need in order to be the best leader of the faith as you can be for your family and friends. Do not be afraid to show the way to others.

ON THE LIGHTER SIDE Q. If George Washington were alive today, why couldn’t he

throw a silver dollar across the Potomac? A. Because a dollar doesn’t go as far as it used to.

FROM OUR PRINCIPAL AND PRESIDENT Last week, a communication went home to all our school parents regarding the upcoming school year. In case you have not heard, we plan on making a few changes that, we hope, will improve the academic environment of our school: 1. Due to changes and consolidations (i.e. removal of

computer lab due to one-to-one devices in the classrooms) within the main building, we are able to move the Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K) to the Main building for the 2019-2020 school year. We are very excited about creating a PS, PK, and Kindergarten Wing geared to our youngest students.

2. This move accelerates the start of Phase 2 of the Making a Difference Campaign Project. Phase 1 was the renovation and upgrade of our technology, phones, HVAC and electrical systems. Phase 2 consists of constructing a new Parish Center and relocating the Preschool. Moving the Preschool and Pre-K next year, allows our Parish to begin using the Weis Center beginning this fall for daytime meetings, funeral luncheons, et cetera.

3. We will have a new start time next school year. Our day will run from 7:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. Thursday will continue to be a late start day. School will run from 8:40 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. This change allows us to have added minutes needed for instruction time at all grade levels.

4. As we look at data and student achievement, we will be reorganizing the 5th and 6th grade team. The 5th grade will have two teachers who split the subjects, Math/Science and English/Social Studies. Both teachers will teach Religion. The 6th grade will have three teachers and each will teach two subjects. Keeping the students’ ages in mind, they will be able to acclimate better to a fewer number of teachers and the schedule will have more flexibility to accommodate for core subjects. The 7th and 8th grade team will stay content specific, fully switching for all core classes. Spanish will be the sixth core for this team.

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February Schedule 20/21 Class 27/28 Class

March Schedule 3 Family Formation — 1:00-2:00 p.m. in Gym 6/7 No Class — Ash Wednesday 13/14 Class 16 First Penance at 10:00 a.m. — Church 20/21 Class 27/28 No Class — Spring Break

April Schedule 3/4 Class 6 First Communion Retreat 9:00 a.m. in the STM Gym 10/11 Class 12 Confirmation Practice at 5:30 p.m. 13 Confirmation at 10:30 a.m. 17/18 No Class — Holy Week 24/25 Last Class (except for 3rd Grade/1st Communicants)

May Schedule 1/2 Communion Practice Both classes need to attend both days! 4 First Holy Communion Mass at 10:00 a.m.

Religious Education

From Your Parish Synod Committee Evangelization Has Its Rewards!

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” Show mercy this week by

performing one or more of the corporal works of mercy: Feed the hungry. Give drink to the thirsty. Clothe the naked.

Shelter the homeless. Comfort the imprisoned. Visit the sick. Bury the dead.

Evangelize by practicing these acts of mercy.

Evangelization: Pray, Model, Invite

Of course we should pray daily, but Lent is a great time to double our prayer efforts! Relevant Radio says their most often received

prayer request is for fallen away Catholics. Let us all use the coming season of Lent and the power of prayer to ask God to

touch our family and friends who are not practicing their faith.

Lectors for the Week

Saturday, February 23 5:30 pm Mass Ruth Banas &

Ann Harkenrider

Sunday, February 24 6:30 am Mass

Cal Bellamy & Phil McIntosh

8:00 am Mass Kevin Connelly & Jim Kaspar

10:00 am Mass Christine Greenberg &

Jesse Montenegro

12:00 Noon Mass Keesha Hardaway & Cheryl Staniszewski

Saturday, February 23 5:30 pm Mass

Main: Dagmar Reay Chapel: Dick & Nancy

Hemingway Choir: Tom & Louisa Jurich

Sunday, February 24

8:00 am Mass Main: James & Nancy Kaczka

Chapel: Mary Silvasi Choir: Christi & Katie Kordeck

10:00 am Mass Main: Deborah Pastor

Chapel: Diane Adley & Joan Mucha

12:00 Noon Mass Choir: Pat Batchelder

Maintenance Position Available St. Thomas More Parish

Applicant must have some experience in maintenance to perform duties at St. Thomas More Church & School. Candidate must have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation and auto

insurance. Physical requirements include: ability to lift 50 lbs. and climb

stairs and ladders. Experience should include proficiency at completing small

plumbing repairs, painting, light carpentry work, changing light fixtures, ballasts, bulbs and tackling small wiring jobs.

Some HVAC experience preferred (change motors,

belts, pumps couplings and routine filter

changes). Must be able to operate a

plow truck for snow removal and be ready to plow during off hours as

needed, in addition to operation and

maintenance of lawn equipment (zero turn &

hand mowers). Hours: 40 hours/week

Monday through Friday with health benefits and paid vacation.

Start times vary from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. for an 8-hour work day (with occasional emergency work).

Salary based on skill level and experience.

To apply, go to the Indeed website and complete online application and upload resume, or come to the

STM Parish Office to complete an application with resume.

School & Parish Closed In observance of President’s Day

Monday, February 18, 2019 the Parish and School Offices will be closed.

This is a holiday for St. Thomas More School students and there will be no parish activities taking place.

We will re-open for a normal business day on Tuesday. Thank you.

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St. Thomas More School February 17, 2019

For more information, visit our website:

www.stm-school.com or contact Pam Pasyk:

(219) 836-9151 or ppasyk@stm-school.com

• Fully Accredited by the IN Department of Education & AdvancED • Small Class Sizes (18:1 students to teacher ratio) • Outstanding Academics with Catholic /Values Curriculum • Spanish, Art, Music, Physical Education & Computer • 20+ Clubs &Organizations • 5 Sports

Join us for our final Open House!

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 19 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Preschool to Grade 8 Preschool & Pre-K: Weis Center • 8635 Calumet • Munster, IN

(Next to the Munster Public Library)

Grades K to 8: Main School • 8435 Calumet • Munster, IN

Open House

Cultivating Tomorrow’s Leaders of Conscience

ST. THOMAS MORE SCHOOL Educating the Whole Child in the Values of Jesus and Mary

Page 8

St. Thomas More Faith Re-Ignited Synod Evangelization Group

Presents a Special Guest Speaker with an Important Message:

An Evening with Fr. Mick Kopil “Father, My Kids Don’t Go to Church Anymore”

Tuesday, March 5th at 7:00 p.m. St. Thomas More Solar Room

Pizza and refreshments will be served.

Please RSVP by Wednesday, February 27!

Please respond to Hope Terzo: terzo4life@yahoo.com or call 219.201.4582

Holy Name Society All men of the parish are invited to join us for the next Holy

Name Society meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the Solar Room on Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Note: Date change! The Rosary will begin our meeting, followed by a Stephen Ray video. We’ll conclude the evening with pizza and beverages.

New members are always encouraged and welcome.

Save the Date: The Holy Name Society

will be hosting their annual

Fish Fry & Raffle Friday, March 15th

4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. St. Thomas More Gym

Watch the bulletin for more details and a menu

coming soon.

Catholics Coming Home Catholics leave the church or drift away for a variety of reasons, some due to unhappiness about Church teachings or anger with a

member or members of the clergy. Others never really intended to break with the Church, but

simply got into the bad habit of not going and wake up one day to discover it has been years.

Those of us who are active in our faith need to make a concerted personal effort to welcome these individuals back into being

active members of the Catholic Church again.

Catholics Coming Home A six-week series has begun, but you may join us anytime.

Come and bring a friend or relative, too! We meet weekly in the Solar Room and we invite anyone

needing to reconnect with their faith to join us. Wednesday Sessions at 7:00 p.m.

(until March 6, 2019) For more info or to accept this invitation,

please contact the Parish Office (219) 836-8610.

The Priest The Pizza The Paczki The Pop

JOIN US…COME FOR

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STMS T.R.I.P. News Make Your Shopping & Gift-Giving a Breeze!

Everyone is welcome to use this easy and convenient service provided by our school.

Just sign-up, place your order for gift cards from a host of many, many vendors

(from gas stations, department and grocery stores to services & vacation destinations) and pick-up in the Parish Office later in

the week. It couldn’t get any easier! Submit all payments and a printed receipt with your order on

processing days no later than 8:30 a.m.

Processing dates are on the

following dates:

February 19 (Tuesday)

March 4 & 18

April 1, 15 & 29

May 13 & 20

Learn more by emailing:

stmstrip@gmail.com. Senior Citizens All senior citizens of our parish are invited to join us to

hear informative speakers, have fun and enjoy the companionship of fellow parishioners.

Meetings are held at 1:00 p.m. at Kish Funeral Community Room, 10000 Calumet Avenue, September to July.

Annual Dues: $10.

Wednesday, March 6th

Business Meeting

Guest Speakers: Kevin Kish & Cindy Badten

Saturday, March 16th

Pot Luck Luncheon

12:00 Noon — 4:00 p.m. in the Solar Room

Sunday, March 31st

8:00 a.m. Mass & Breakfast Honoring Our Deceased Members Breakfast to follow. Reservations required.

Please note date change:

Wednesday, April 3rd

Business Meeting

Election of Officers for the 2019/2020 Year

Wednesday, May 1st

Spring Luncheon &

Installation of New Officers 12:00 Noon to 3:00 p.m.

Reservations Required • Location to be Announced

Religious Education/Formation All are welcome to join us for our next meeting

in the Parish Conference Room on Monday, February 25, 2019.

We look forward to seeing you all there!

An Evening of Reflection Guest Speaker:

Fr. Gerald Schweitzer Tuesday, March 19, 2019

7:00 p.m. Solar Room

Topic: “From Agony to Ecstasy- From Death to Life” Reflection upon the

Easter Vigil

All are invited and encouraged to join us!

Knights of Columbus Ash Wednesday is March 6, and so begins our Lenten journey.

Join us as we host the first Fish Fry of the seaon!

Fish Fry Friday March 8, 2019

4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the Gym Menu:

Baked or Battered Cod — $10 Shrimp — $10

Children’s Dinner (small portions) — $5

All dinners include: Bread & Butter • French Fries

Cole Slaw • Salads • Beets Mac‘n’Cheese also available.

Coffee, soft drinks, beer and wine will be available.

50/50 Raffle

Proceeds support Scholarships for STM Students attending Catholic High schools, SVDP

Thanksgiving Turkeys, local seminarians, Planting Possibilities, Campagna Academy and more.

2019 Membership Drive Saturday, March 9 & Sunday, March10

After All Masses Knights of Columbus is open to all men, 18 years

of age and older. Learn about the benefits of membership and

how it can help men and their families be stronger in their faith and spread the spirit of

charity through service. Please be sure to read Bishop Donald

Hying's letter encouraging all men of the Gary Diocese to consider membership in the

Knights of Columbus. You can find it published soon in our bulletin, or go to the Diocese of Gary website.

Monthly Monday Luncheon All seniors of our parish are invited to join us on

Monday, February 25 at 11:00 a.m. Sheffield’s Restaurant

1027 Sheffield Avenue in Dyer

No reservations are needed. We look forward to another lovely luncheon with good food and engaging

conversation. See you there!

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STM Career

Networking Group

80% of Jobs are Unadvertised 82% of Jobs are Found Through Networking

15% Found Want Ads 4% Create Their Own Jobs • 2% Blindly Send Resumes

Wednesday, March 13, 2019

7:00 – 8:30 p.m.

A to Z New Job Guide Advice to start your job search and ideas to keep

your search moving in the right direction! Presented by:

Jim Kaczka STM Career Networking Group Co-Chair

Regular Meetings are Free! Open to All! For those who are unemployed (in transition), new to the job

market, employed but changing careers or those who can offer employment opportunities through their current professional

connections. Have your cover letter, resume or thank you critiqued.

Where: STM Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue • Munster When: The 2nd Wednesday of Every Month Time: 7:00 p.m.– 8:30 p.m. Email: STMCareerGroup@gmail.com

St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry The holiday season is now behind us and many memories with family and friends have been made. As we look back, we are

thankful for the generosity of those in our parish and school and are grateful for the individuals, groups and parish ministries who

have kindly contributed to our constant efforts to help those in need throughout our community.

We, of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, would like to thank all of our supporters for your generous donations that brought sparkles to eyes and smiles to faces of those served over the holidays and

who will undoubtedly be moved by the future kindness of our parish family.

Thanks to all of you for your ongoing generous support in

helping us to provide help to others!

Items in Need at the SVDP Food Pantry:

Boxed Mashed Potatoes

Pancake Mix Syrup

Meal Helpers Rice Helpers/Sides

Potato Helpers/Sides Cake Mixes

Frosting Tuna

To volunteer or learn more about the SVDP Society, please contact SVDP President Mike Martinelli at (219) 836-8610.

Canned Meats Canned Fruit Jiffy Mixes

Soup Cereal

Toilet Paper Dish Soap Shampoo Bar Soap

Laundry Detergent

Live Christ, Share Christ Movement

All are invited to join

Join us for our next gathering on

Saturday, March 9, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. St. Thomas More Weis Center

The Live Christ, Share Christ Movement is now active in our Diocese, with the endorsements of Pope Benedict, our own Bishop Hying & Fr. Mike, and has been

effective in other countries around the world. The Live Christ, Share Christ Movement was designed to help

rekindle and strengthen our faith through the power of the Holy Spirit, so that we may know Christ and

love him more deeply. In response to God’s love, we can share our faith and love by

the way we live as an example to family and friends.

Northwest Indiana Catholic Subscription Drive

When was the last time you learned something new about your Catholic faith?

Stay current with a subscription to the Northwest Indiana Catholic!

Subscribe now by using the envelope in your collection packet by March 17, 2019. The rate for 43 issues of the paper is $26 per

year or you’ll find e-edition subscriptions are available at $13 per year (an email address is required).

Or, receive both for the low cost of $30 per year! If you would prefer paying with a debit or credit card, go to our

secure website at nwicatholic.com. Thank you for supporting our Catholic press!

Page 11

Andrean High School

Family Information Nights Andrean High School invites families to our Family Information Night in Andrean’s Cafeteria. Families will have the opportunity

to meet with Andrean students, parents and faculty. We look forward to meeting you!

Wednesday, February 20 — 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, March 14 — 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Entrance Exams Andrean High School invites prospective students to our

Entrance Exam. Students are asked to check in by 12:45 p.m. and enter through Door M. Parents are invited to join us for refreshments and a presentation on the admissions process.

Saturday, March 9 — 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, April 13 — 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Families can pre-register for events at: andreanhs.org/rsvp Andrean's online Admissions Application is now open.

Families can begin applying at andreanhs.org/apply. Andrean High School • 219-887-5959 • andreanhs.org

Or register for any of the above events: andreanhs.org/rsvp

Catholic Women's Conference The Diocese of Gary is happy to announce its second annual

NWI Catholic Women's Conference

Saturday, April 6, 2019 from 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. CDT

Queen of All Saints Catholic Legacy Center 1719 Barker Avenue • Michigan City, IN 46360

Sharing the Joy of Our Faith "My spirit rejoices in God my savior" Luke 1:47

Guest Speakers: Sr. Miriam James — Speaker & Author

Dr. Angela Franks, Ph.D. — Theologian, Author, Mother of 6 Kevin Matthews — Radio Personality This conference is open to all women.

For more information or questions, please contact Rosanne Kouris at (219) 769-9292, ext. 259 or rkouris@dcgary.org.

Queen of All Saints Events February 24 -27, 2019

Parish Mission Join us nightly from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the upstairs Legacy Center, 1719 E. Barker Avenue in Michigan City.

Roman Catholic Lay Evangelist John Schweisthal of Good News Ministries is conducting the mission. The event is FREE. A shorter morning mission will be presented on February 25 at

8:30 a.m., February 26 at 9:30 a.m. and February 27 at 8:30 a.m. The theme of the mission is "Our Life of Faith."

Wednesday, March 20, 2019

Made for More 7:00 – 9:30 p.m. at Queen of All Saints

Made for More is an inspired blend of teaching, live music and art that taps the deepest desires of the human heart revealing their ultimate purpose and goal. Join Christopher West and

Mike Mangione, nationally-recognized Catholics, as they offer a vision of the Gospel like you’ve never heard before through the

lens of Saint John Paul II’s Theology of the Body. It will answer your questions:

“Who am I” & “Where am I going?” Leave with a faith-filled vision of hope & joy. Perfect for men and women, age 15 and older. This event will sell out, so get

your tickets NOW online at www.corproject.com/michigancity or by mail through the diocese.

Tickets are $20. Free bus transportation available. Contact 219-769-9292 x 259 or rkouris@dcgary.org for more information.

Sponsored by the Office of Evangelization.

Natural Family Planning How much do you know about Natural Family Planning (NFP)?

Want answers? Come to the NFP Information Nights

& Live the Love! Natural Family Planning Explained

6:30 p.m.— 8:30 p.m. at the following parishes:

St. Teresa of Avila • Valparaiso • Monday, February 18 Queen of All Saints • Michigan City • Tuesday, February 19

St. Francis Xavier • Lake Station • Friday, March 8 St. Mary • Griffith • Monday, March 11

Explanation by a medical professional on the science behind fertility awareness and the benefits to women’s health.

Explanation of the theology behind the Church’s teaching. Explanation of real life experience and advice by

a teaching couple. The evening is free and babysitting will be available. No registration necessary.

Sponsored by the Office of Family Life Diocese of Gary 219-769-9292, ex 259.

Worldwide Marriage Encounter Don’t miss out on the upcoming enrichment for married couples

and religious on April 12-14, 2019 at the Wyndham Garden Hotel in Elk Grove Village, IL.

The enrichment begins with a private weekend experience including 11 presentations about practical tools for growing in

loving relationships, and provides ongoing enrichments after the weekend from the Worldwide Marriage Encounter community.

For information/application, go to wwme-chicagoland.org and say “yes” today to God’s call to love one another!

Your Tax Return Can Help Others! You can do a lot of good when you have your taxes prepared by

H&R Block this year, who has teamed up with

Rockopelli to help others in our area.

For every new client who files their taxes through H&R Block or Block Advisors, $20 will be donated to Rockopelli through

the H&R Block Nonprofit Program. Share our code and start helping others today!Find an office near

you at hrblock.com or blockadvisors.com and give them Code: 40010001095478. Thank you for helping us help others.

Page 12

Chorale Concert at SS. Peter & Paul SS. Peter & Paul Parish, 5885 Harrison Street in Merrillville presents a final Choral Concert under the direction of Laura

Monteen on Sunday, February 24 at 3:00 pm. Mrs. Monteen, the parish’s Liturgy & Music Coordinator, will be retiring this

summer after 28 years of service to this parish. She also assists STMS with the fall musical each year. This concert will include choirs and musicians who have performed at SS. Peter & Paul

throughout the years. Free and open to the public; everyone from the Diocese is invited. Refreshments will be served following the concert. For information, contact Liz Bushemi at (219) 793-1375.

Respite Care Program for Parents The Diocesan Office for Other-Abled is hosting its next Night STARS respite care program for parents of other-abled children and their siblings. Care will be provided on Friday, February 22

from 5:00-9:00 p.m. at 8380 Louisiana Street in Merrillville, leaving parents time for themselves while their children are well-

cared for in a fun, safe environment, enjoying games, crafts, movies and other activities. Contact Emily Hackett at

ehackett@stm-school.com or Adeline Torres at atorres@dcgary.com to RSVP at least three (3) days in advance.

St. James Book Club Are you the salt of the earth? “Salt is good, but if salt itself loses

its taste, with what can its flavor be restored?” (Luke 14:34) Don’t let your faith lose its taste. Restore its flavor by joining the St.

James the Less Book Club this Lent. Our weekly discussions will revolve around the book, Called to be Holy by Cardinal Timothy Dolan. We meet each Thursday in Lent (starting March 14 and

concluding on April 11) from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sign-up and book purchase ($12.50) at a special meeting on February 28.

Contact Phyllis Steiner at (219) 934-0967 for info.

St. John the Baptist Winter Fest Unplug & reconnect with St. John the Baptist Winter Fest! March

1-3, 2019. Find all the information at Facebook.com/sjbfest or sjb.org. Friday 6:00-11:00 p.m.: Mexican Dinner • Games of

Chance • Live Music by Brian Munde. Saturday 1:00-11:00 p.m.: Senior Afternoon Taste of the Panel Room • Bingo/Games of Chance • Music by the Merry Notes • Student Talent Show •

Prime Rib Dinner (7:00 p.m.) • Live Music by The Bed Bugs! Sunday: 11:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.: Slovak Dinner (11:30 a.m.) •

Pierogi Fest Buscias • SJB Youth Choir • Teacher Skit • Last Minute Grill • Live Music by the Underground Prophets • Beer

Garden (tip boards, silent auction) teen rooms, raffles, Bake Sale, Food: walking tacos, beef sandwiches, sloppy joes, ice cream, and

more! Visit the gym for games, bounce houses and more.

St. Florian Mardi Gras Party Saturday, March 2, 2019 from 5:30 –10:00 p.m. in the Gym,

located at 13145 S. Houston Avenue in Chicago (Hegewisch). Tickets per person: $25/Adult or $13/14 years & under. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the Rectory Office. Includes a

full buffet dinner, live music & entertainment, 50/50 raffle, parade, kids’ prizes, cash bar & more. (773) 646-4877.

AYCE Soup & Salad The St. Stephen Men’s & Women’s Clubs are sponsoring an

AYCE Soup & Salad Dinner on Saturday, March 9th from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. in Jacob Hall. We will feature many

homemade soups, bread, salad and soft drinks for $8! Call (219) 980-9348.

Hoops, Habits & Brackets Join St. Joseph’s Carmelite Home for an evening of NCAA

discussions with basketball professionals. Monday March 18, 2019 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the Halls of St. George, 905 East

Joliet Street in Schererville. Stadium dining and open bar. Casual dress & basketball jerseys encouraged! Select your bracket picks to win it all! For more information, call all

312-392-4197. All proceeds to meet the needs of the children.

Pick 7 Outreach at St. Matthias St. Matthias in Crown Point is hosting a Pick 7 Outreach

Opportunity on Saturday, March 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 Noon. If you know of someone who could use a helping hand

with food or household supplies, please invite them to this event. No questions asked, just joyful giving. Call (219) 663-2201.

Be a Volunteer at The Shrine “Go teach the Gospel! Use words only if necessary” -- St.

Francis of Assisi Volunteering at The Shrine of Christ’s Passion gives you many unique opportunities to help change a person’s life and many

volunteers have found that their own life has changed! Spreading the message of Jesus Christ brings great joy; and we do this every

day at The Shrine. Consider joining our fabulous team of volunteers by calling (219) 365-6010 or stop in at The Gift

Shoppe! New Volunteer Training Schedule (all training sessions

begin at 6:30 p.m. at The Shrine Gift Shoppe): New Tour Guide Meeting on March 12, New Gift Shoppe Meeting on March 19,

Adopt-A-Station Meeting on March 26.

Camp Sharing Meadows Camp Sharing Meadows is recruiting Counselors, Cooks and

Nurses for our Spring 2018 Mini-Camps. Camp Sharing Meadows is a weekend camp for developmentally and

intellectually disabled adults, or “ other-abled” friends where campers can participate in communal activities with their

counselors, while growing in their relationship with God through fun activities and value sessions.

If you are interested in volunteering with us, please contact Emily Barsic at (219) 778-2585 or at camp@sharefoundation.org.

Mini-Camp Dates: February 22-24, March 22-24, April 12-14 and May 17-19

Pierogi Sales Order delicious pierogi from St. Josaphat Church in Munster now. Call (219) 383-9811 no later than 9:00 a.m. on Thursday

morning for a Friday pick-up between Noon and 3:00 p.m. Choose from kraut, potato, cheese or prune.

1 Dozen: $10/Half-dozen: $5. Thanks for your continued support.

Wounded Healers Wounded Healers will begin again soon.

Join one of our groups to help you manage your grief due to the loss of a loved one or friend (separate groups for those grieving

the loss of a spouse or partner, child or grandchild, parent, sibling or friend; beginner and advanced groups).

Contact Wounded Healers at (219) 924-5577 or www.woundedhealers-nwi.com.

Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide If you are coping with the loss of a loved one due to suicide,

contact LOSS and begin the healing process. Please call (312) 655-7284 for meeting schedule and locations.

This group offers help for adults in a nonjudgmental environment.