“Lord, when did we see you…?” NOVEMBER 23, 2014 Matthew 25:37 Preschoolers are given a tour of the church by Preschool Assistant Principal, Cathy Ashton Eucharist Eucharist is the source and summit of our lives at The Catholic Community of St. Francis of Assisi. As disciples, we hunger to be fed and nourished by the Word and Sacrament of Jesus Christ. Saturday: 5:30 pm / Sunday: 7:30 am, 9:30 am*, 11:30 am*, 5:30 pm. Weekdays: 9:00 am in St. Mary of the Angels Chapel. *Child Care Ministry available in Clare Hall, age 1 and walking through age 4. Baptism Parents of children under the age of 7 are invited to participate in Baptism Preparation and can register online at bit.ly/SFABaptismPreparation. If you’re an adult or have a child, 7 years or older, you can find more information at www://bit.ly/ SFAChildrensRCIA. Contact us at: baptisms@stfrancisraleigh.org. Confirmation Confirmation is a Sacrament of mature Christian commitment and a deepening of baptismal gifts of the Holy Spirit. Like Baptism and Eucharist, it is a Sacrament of Initiation and of faith in God's fidelity to us. Our regular parish program is a two-year process that may begin with entrance to 8th grade. Reconciliation The Sacrament of Reconciliation is an expression of God's forgiveness of our sins that reconciles the baptized with God and with the Church community. It is celebrated in Advent and Lent communally and individually at 4:30 pm on Saturday in the Reconciliation Room (inside the Eucharistic Chapel). OUR MISSION STATEMENT Inspired by our patron Francis of Assisi, we seek to proclaim the reign of God by growing in Holiness through our experience of Christ in word, sacrament and one another, offering Hope to those who hunger for human dignity, and extending Hospitality to all. Anointing of the Sick In Anointing of the Sick, the Church prays that the healing grace of Christ might touch the whole person, not just for physical healing, but that the one sick might find forgiveness and hope. It is appropriate to seek it for any serious illness, physical, emotional or mental, and not just in danger of death. Celebrated communally the second Wednesday of the month at the 9:00 am Mass. Also by request, please call a friar directly. Please Note: Because of Privacy Laws, hospitals may not inform us when a Catholic is in the hospital. To notify the parish, please call Jackie Adamo, 919-847-8205x268. Marriage The Sacrament of Marriage celebrates the love of a couple who enter into a covenant with God and one another. Couples planning to be married must make arrangements at least six months before the intended wedding. Call Terri Layer, 919-847-8205x289 to begin the marriage preparation process. Contact us at: marriages@stfrancisraleigh.org. Holy Orders THE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY OF SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI THE FRANCISCAN FRIARS HOLY NAME PROVINCE 11401 LEESVILLE ROAD RALEIGH, NC 27613 www.stfrancisraleigh.org OF To discern a vocation of commitment to priesthood or religious life, please speak with a friar or visit www.beafranciscan.org, or for the diocesan priesthood www.raleighvocations.org. Last week I was away for a few days, drove north to Washington DC where I stayed one night at our friar house of formation and then to Philadelphia, where I stayed at St. Francis Inn, where I used to live before I arrived here in Raleigh in August. It was nice to see the friars and the sisters and the lay volunteers and be back in the old neighborhood. Not a lot has changed in the three months that I’ve been gone. I saw many of the guests who come to eat at St. Francis Inn every day, waiting outside for the gate to open for the daily serving of the meal. We had mass in the morning in the small chapel that is on the second floor of the Inn and as always, it’s a mix of regular volunteers along with people who live out in the streets, all together in our chapel which seats maybe 35-40 people. And every 10 minutes or so, as I remembered, the elevated subway goes by right outside the window of the chapel, on its way either to or from downtown Philadelphia. The chapel there is a place of deep grace amid the hard urban setting of the Inn. I had a day free in the city and took the subway down to 30th Street Station, then walked along the Schuylkill River to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. There is something about walking alongside a river in a big city, the way it catches the light of the sun even amid the traffic and high buildings. At the museum, you can climb the steps, the “Rocky steps” so known from Sylvester Stallone running up those same steps in “Rocky” and then look out over a spectacular view of the city. Inside the museum, there are treasures to be found: a sculpted head of Christ from 13th century France; a small painting on wood of St. Francis of Assisi, luminous against a deep black background, painted sometime around the 1280s, only 60 or so years after the saint’s death; an altar piece painted by Botticelli of scenes from the life of St. Mary Magdalene, all brilliant colors and lines and forms, painted more than five centuries ago in Italy and hanging on a wall now in a gallery in Philadelphia; a black and white photograph, in a special exhibition hall, of a close-up view of a fern branch, taken in Maine, in all its detail, including the small drops of water on the fern itself. One of the things we learn from artists is that there is much beauty to be found in the world and much of it comes from paying attention to what’s right around us. Artists can remind us of the original goodness of creation. It’s nice to be away and it’s also nice to come back. This Thursday, of course is Thanksgiving Day and for those who are traveling out of town to visit family and friends, safe travels in the air or on the rails or the roads. A reminder, as well, that you can still sign up for a parish listening session – go to www.stfrancisraleigh.org and you can sign up for one of the sessions that will be offered over the next several weeks. Please note that these sessions are a chance for you to speak about your own experience of the parish. We have scheduled evening sessions, morning sessions, and some on Sunday afternoons. Each session will have a facilitator and also someone to take notes, and I will be present to listen. Blessings to all on your week! Through Baptism may they walk always as a children of the light: Evan Dean Bush Son of Rob and Sarah Bush Finn Michael Hathaway Son of Tim and Alison Hathaway Dennis Alexander Robinette Son of Dennis and Laura Robinette May they rest in peace and perpetual light shine upon them: +Joanne Barzyk Daughter of Anne Barzyk +Sam and June Jordan Mass requests are accepted up to Tuesday, November 25 for the Thanksgiving weekend Masses. Mass requests are accepted up to Tuesday, December 23 at 11:00 am for the Christmas Masses. Next week’s Bible Byte: “Make us turn to you" Psalm 80 2 2014 Advent Penance Services Raleigh Deanery Dec. 1 7:00 pm St. Raphael the Archangel (English & Spanish) Dec. 2 11:00 am St. Raphael the Archangel (English & Spanish) Dec. 3 11:00 am St. Michael the Archangel, Cary (English) Dec. 3 7:00 pm St. Bernadette, Fuquay-Varina (English & Spanish) Dec. 4 7:00 pm St. Andrew the Apostle, Apex (English) Dec. 5 7:00 pm Our Lady of the Rosary, Louisburg (English & Spanish) Dec. 7 7:00 pm St. Eugene, Wendell (English & Spanish) Dec. 9 7:00 pm St. Catherine of Siena, Wake Forest (English & Spanish) Dec. 10 11:00 am St. Catherine of Siena, Wake Forest (English) Dec. 10 7:00 pm St. Mary Mother of the Church, Garner (English & Spanish) Dec. 14 7:00 pm St. Francis of Assisi (English) Dec. 15 7:00 pm St. Francis of Assisi (English) Dec. 16 11:00 am St. Bernadette, Fuquay-Varina (English) Dec. 16 7:00 pm Our Lady of Lourdes (English) Dec. 16 7:00 pm Sacred Heart Cathedral (English & Spanish) Dec. 17 11:00 am St. Francis of Assisi (English) Dec. 17 7:00 pm St. Michael the Archangel, Cary (English & Spanish) Dec. 22 7:00 pm St. Luke the Evangelist (English) Holiday Mass Schedule The Franciscan Challenge Q & A’s What is a Franciscan Friar? The Franciscans, also called the Order of Friars Minor are members of the Catholic religious order founded by Saint Francis of Assisi over 800 years ago. We seek to follow the manner of life that Saint Francis led. Our Order is a mendicant religious order of men who therefore depend directly on the charity of the people for their livelihood. This new order founded by Saint Francis was prompted by a need to reinvigorate the life of the Catholic Church. At the present time, the Franciscan Friars number 17,224 worldwide with 586 novices or “Friars in training.” Often times you will see O.F.M. after a Friar’s name, wondering what it means. It refers to the Order of Friars Minor commonly called the Franciscans. What is a Franciscan Province? A Franciscan Province is a geographic area of the country where the Friars of that province live and work. The Franciscan Order divides countries into provinces. What is Holy Name Province? Holy Name Province is the largest of seven provinces in the United States belonging to the Franciscan Order. It covers the eastern seaboard with some locations beyond. The Provincial headquarters are located in New York City. Dec. 8 Feast of Immaculate Conception – Church (9:00 am and 7:30 pm) Dec. 24 Christmas Eve – Gym (2:30 and 4:30 pm) Dec. 24 Christmas Eve – Church (2:30, 4:30 and 6:30 pm) Dec .24 Midnight Mass – Church Music Prelude to Midnight Mass 11:15 pm “Gloria” by Antonio Vivaldi Mass begins at midnight Dec. 25 Christmas Day – Church (9:30 and 11:30 am) Dec. 31 Mary, Mother of God Vigil – Church (5:30 pm) Jan. 1 Mary, Mother of God – Church (9:00 am) 3 Ministries of Liturgy, Evangelization, and Music Praise Choir A at 5:30 Sunday Mass group of youth and adults are taking the idea of making a joyful noise to a whole new level. You may have noticed the ensemble of singers that has been steadily increasing in size at the Sunday evening Mass. Coordinator of Music and Liturgy, Jim Wahl, along with Family Formation Coordinator, Jenn Fiduccia re-launched this contemporary ensemble in September and it has been gaining steam since. The concept is to enhance the worship experience at the 5:30 pm Sunday liturgy by combining the talents of professional musicians in the band with the gifts of our volunteer vocalists. The music at Mass is done in a contemporary style that is popular with the youth that attend that liturgy before their evening youth ministry program. The music ministers in the vocal ensemble gather at 4:00 pm for rehearsal, immediately prior to Mass. They have been working hard to develop a repertoire of both Contemporary Christian worship songs and traditional Catholic favorites sung with a modern twist. After sound check with the band, the group breaks from rehearsal to read that Sunday’s Gospel and small group discussion. Members not only share their faith with one another, but also their stories and struggles. The group has developed into its own Small Christian Community, that is not only functional in providing musical leadership for Mass, but in supporting one another and giving each member a safe place to “belong” in the larger parish. The group’s members range in age from 6th graders to empty nesters. One of the most beautiful things to watch is the members walking their faith journey with one another, regardless of age. For more information about the Praise Choir, or to join, please email jennifer.fiduccia@stfrancisraleigh.org. 4 Do You Hear What I Hear? A Night of Lessons and Carols J oin the youth of our parish on Sunday, December 21 at 7:00 pm in church for an evening of fun, drama, music, prayer, and Eucharistic Adoration for the whole family! As we sing along to familiar Christmas carols, we will reflect on the theology behind the lyrics and deepen our understanding of God’s great love for us. People of all ages are welcome to this night of fellowship and Christmas spirit. We hope you will save the date and plan on participating! Youth Confirmation Preparation I nterested youth who are currently in 8th grade or above and at least one parent must attend an information/ registration meeting. Confirmation preparation is a two year long journey and will culminate with the Celebration of Confirmation in the fall of 2016. Final Registration Opportunity Wednesday, 12/10/2014 at 7:00 pm Anthony Hall Founders Room To register, please visit: stfrancisraleigh.org/confirmation2016 Questions? Please contact Martina 919-847-8205x264, martina.dumberger@stfrancisraleigh.org. Pastoral Ministries GoodNews Sharing the Fruits of Ministry Seeing Christ in Your Spouse Jason Lillis, Coordinator of Family Life www.stfrancispastoralministries.wordpress.com Showing Love and Mercy Sheila Read, Justice and Peace Specialist F ive parishioners (Sonia Kane, Joan Monti, Diane Steinbeiser, Jeff Szymendera and Mary Zahn) recently returned from five days of service at St. Francis Inn in Philadelphia. Our parish sends delegations of four to six parishioners to the Inn four times each year. St. Francis Inn, where Fr. Steve served prior to becoming pastor is a Franciscan Eucharistic community that ministers to the poor and homeless with food, clothing, and hospitality. Here’s what two parishioners had to say: Sonia Kane: “The ministry of the St. Francis Inn is successful in serving the needs of the poor because it shows Christ's love through the dignity with which every guest is treated and the mercy in which every "rule" is wrapped. “I saw the face of Christ in the Asian woman who didn't speak English, but whose eyes lit up when I said "chocolate"; in Carlos, who loved calling me "LaSonia"; in Eric, who chatted with me about Tarheel basketball; in the young couple who were first-time guests and couldn't believe we would do this for them; in Mike and his young family who treated one another with tender care and shared their portions with other guests; in Paul, who told me his story and for whom I promised to pray. My hope is that I, too, was Christ for them.” Joan Monti: “My week at St. Francis Inn was a most humbling and exciting experience, filled with so many blessings. The families we served every day were to me, the faces of God. How could you not love them! “Beginning each day with Mass in the Chapel set the tone and supplied us with all the energy and love we would need for the work day ahead. It was a good hard work. …Living in the St. Francis Inn community made quite a difference… [It was] much different and more profound than volunteering once a month.” To learn more, see www.stfrancisraleigh.org and click on Justice and Peace and Find a Ministry. R ecently, there was an interview in the Atlantic about the research being done by Drs. John and Julie Gottman. Their research over the last 40+ years has focused on finding out what couples do that helps their marriage thrive. I've been reading one of John Gottman’s books a lot over the past year, both to support my own marriage and to learn how we can help build marriage skills through ministry here in our community. Gottman wanted to know more about how “the masters” of marriage (his expression) created a culture of love and intimacy. You can find the article online to get the whole story, but permit me to boil down the research to a quick talking point: exercise kindness early and often through small acts of generosity. To tie it to today’s Gospel reading, imagine yourself asking Jesus, “Lord, where did I see you?” Now imagine that Christ responds by saying, “When you turned toward your spouse in the midst of their too-busy schedule and showed them kindness, you did so to me. It would have been easy for you to only do this when they were at their most beautiful or handsome. But you also did this when your spouse was in need, feeling broken, and hoping that you would support them. You did this when they shared news that was exciting by responding with enthusiasm, not just turning back to your smartphone. Even when they did something that annoyed you, you gave them the benefit of the doubt that it wasn’t malicious. You loved them, and so you loved me!” At least, that’s one thing I hope Jesus says to me - and my wife! Kindness and generosity can’t just be practiced in our home, but if we’re not practicing it there, do we really think that we’re going to be able to share it with others when they need it most? Will I really see Christ in others if I don’t see Christ in my spouse? Over the next month, you’re probably going to spend a lot of together-time with your family. In this time of high-stress and flaring emotions, I encourage you to love with kindness and to have a generous attitude toward your spouse. If you would like additional support or programs to help support your union, check out our parish offerings at http://bit.ly/sfamfe, our Marriage and Family Enrichment website. 5 Catholic Education Ministries The Franciscan School St. Francis of Assisi Preschool Elementary: K-5 Middle School: 6-8 Growing in excellence since 1991 Celebrating 15 Years! We are Thankful F Sue Burdett Laureen Wacenske ifteen years ago, the Franciscan School opened its doors for the first time with 345 students and 35 faculty members. Today there are over 690 students in grades K-8 and 83 staff members. To commemorate this anniversary, the school community is celebrating with “15th Days” that began in October. On the 15th day of each month, one of the eight founding staff members who have been at the Franciscan School all 15 years will be honored at Morning Prayer. The 15th of each month will be a dress-out day with a theme chosen by the honoree. Students will answer questions about the honoree in a trivia contest. First grade teacher Sue Burdett kicked off the celebration and was the first honoree for October. She chose favorite team colors or jerseys for the dress-out theme. For November, school guidance counselor Laureen Wacenske was honored. She declared the dress-out theme as animal print or a shirt with a “friendly” animal and was surprised as her husband and son joined her in celebrating her 15 years here. “I have considered each day that I have been privileged to work at the Franciscan School over the past 15 years a joy…. embraced by faith, support, inspiration, laughter, prayer, and endless fun learning about God’s creation,” said Wacenske. “In all my years of education, I have never experienced the grace and love that I have at the Franciscan School, as well as the many wonderful opportunities to serve God’s people. Thank you, TFS Family, for being such a special part of my life, and for inspiring me to strive to live and love as Jesus.” For more information about the Franciscan School or to schedule a tour, please contact Lura Tysiac at lura.tysiac@stfrancisraleigh.org or call 919-847-8205-469. 6 A s we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, we are reminded of the many things in our lives that we should give thanks for every day. We are thankful for our families and how they nurture us and support us in our everyday endeavors. We are thankful for our preschool families and children who bring joy to our hearts and smiles to our faces. We are thankful for our teachers and staff who give so lovingly of their time and talents to help make a difference in our preschool children’s lives. We are thankful for the many service opportunities, led by our parent volunteers, which allow the children of the preschool the chance to help others in need and learn how their participation can truly make a difference in our community. When we look around this time of year, we notice change. The days are getting shorter and nightfall approaches more rapidly each day. We have moved from the lazy days of summer to fall as we prepare for the upcoming Advent season. We pause to think of all we have learned so far in our faith in preschool this year and how we have already grown as individuals. Just as the trees prepare for new growth, we do this also as individuals. We take our triumphs and lessons learned and we grow closer to God. Whether or not we realize it each day, we are growing in our love for God and are so thankful to Him for everything He shares with us daily. This past Friday, we enjoyed seeing the children’s smiles as they celebrated their Thanksgiving feast together here at the Preschool. We wish all of you a blessed Thanksgiving, remembering, “Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” Psalm 106:1 For more information on the St. Francis of Assisi Preschool, please contact Shelley Freeman At 919-847-8205x262 or shelley.freeman@stfrancisraleigh.org. SHARE YOUR GIFTS Community Life Tricia Henry, Coordinator of Community Life Parish Volunteer Opportunities Phone Skills: Do you enjoy connecting with people over the phone? The Care and Wellness office is looking for a few people to make calls to parishioners for various ministries. Contact: Kathleen Owen at 919-847-8205x241. Inter-Faith Food Shuttle Gleaners Needed: Are you willing to give a couple of hours rescuing food from area farms to donate to the hungry in our communities? Be a part of this meaningful and fun gleaning opportunity for youth and adults. Contact: Suzanne Szymendera at sesszy49@gmail.com. Welcoming Hosts: Meet our newest families; help them find their place in our community. Families of all ages are welcome! Contact: Sue Mathys at 919-847-8205x222, sue.mathys@stfrancisraleigh.org. Feed the Need: Help provide cooked meals to families in our parish who are adjusting to life’s challenges. Sign up for a date that works for you. Contact: Donna Mariani at donnam@nc.rr.com, 919-326-3768. Mentor Engaged Couples: Do you remember preparing for marriage? Among the wedding plans and preparing for life transitions, someone took time to sit down with you to talk about the joys, blessings, and trials of marriage. We invite couples married 10 years or more to join the Fully Engaged Ministry Team to host conversations for an engaged couple using the results from their Fully Engaged pre-marital inventory. Flexible Time commitment, meet with engaged couples in your home or at St. Francis as you are available. Contact: Jason Lillis at jason.lillis@stfrancisraleigh.org, or 919-847-8205x244. Donations Volunteer: Do you find satisfaction in providing material donations to nonprofit organizations serving people in need? We’re looking for an organized person to coordinate our donation drives and arrange for distribution of unsolicited donations to partner organizations. Some work can be done from home. 10 hours per month. Contact: Sheila Read at sheila.read@stfrancisraleigh.org, 919-847-8205x420. Cross Bearers needed at all masses. Training is provided and you will serve once a month or less. Contact: Tresa Pickup at tresa.pickup@stfrancisraleigh.org, 919-847-8205x488. Caregivers Ministry: Do you enjoy helping others and being with people who are happy to see you? Take someone to the doctor’s office, the grocery store, or just visit. Contact: Carol Derrenbacher, 919-554-2578. I I see you n this month of thanks giving, I try to stop and ponder things to be thankful about. I appreciate nature around us as it changes before our eyes. I look a little closer at my family and recognize the gifts I have before me. I smile with the projects the kids bring home from school with all their Indian feathers of thankfulness. In this job, I also like to take this time to remember all the countless people that make Community Life ministries flourish each and every day and night. Reflecting on the Gospel today, I am seeing so many sheep in our mist. When I think about the countless men and women who give their time and talent to help hundreds of children in this community, I know they are extending their gifts to the youngest among us. Yet, they may ask “Lord, when did I see you?” When I watch the Assisi Café volunteers serving coffee with a listening ear, I know they are offering hope to those needing to be heard. Yet, they may ask: “Lord, when did I see you?” When the coach and staff run for ice to help the injured player off the court, I know they are responding to the injured and coming to aid. Yet, they may ask: “Lord, when did I see you?” When I walk through the lobby and I see the two people huddled in the corner in deep, sincere, conversation, I know the gift of comforting those in need is being offered at that moment. Yet, they may ask: “Lord, when did I see you?” When I peek inside the gym at night and witness adult men reading from the bible standing in a circle in the gym, I know this may be only time they heard God’s word this week. Yet, they may ask: “Lord, when did I see you?” When that stranger walks in the door, cold, wet, tired, cries and we give her a hug and wrap her in a coat, I know we extend our hearts in love and care that day. Yet, we still asked: “Lord, when did I see you?” Today, let me take a moment to see all the sheep in our mist. You are offering your time, your talent, your listening ear, your caring heart; you are wrapping your arms around those that need warmth. You are the sheep. I see you. 7 Diocese of Raleigh News Pope Francis in Philly!! The World Awaits You and so does the Pope! It’s official…Pope Francis is coming to the 8th World Meeting of Families! Plan your trip to Philadelphia, PA for September 22-27, 2015. The city will come alive with multicultural family-centered activities, a congress for youth and for adults, and a Papal Mass. Register NOW! For more information see: http://www.dioceseofraleigh.org/worldmeeting. Fifth Annual Love My Life Youth Rally On Saturday, January 17 at 10:30 am, the Fifth Annual Love My Life Youth Rally will be held at Halifax Mall in downtown Raleigh. The Rally is an opportunity for Catholic teens to come together in celebration, to connect with others from across the Diocese and to learn more about living and promoting the pro-life culture. Contact your school or youth leaders for more information on this awesome, spirit filled event. The Diocesan Mass for Life will immediately follow at 12:00 noon. All of these events will be held in a heated tent! See http://dioceseofraleigh.org/ lml for more information about the Rally. See more at: http://dioceseofraleigh.org/offices/ communications/centralized-mail#sthash.6O39tNgd.dpuf Washington D.C. March for Life Join faithful from across the Diocese for the North Carolina Mass and March for Life on Thursday, January 22 in Washington D.C. This year in the Diocese of Raleigh, over 30 buses from parishes and schools are expected to make the trip. The day begins with Mass with Bishops Michael Burbidge of the Raleigh Diocese and Bishop Peter Jugis of the Charlotte Diocese along with hundreds of priests and deacons at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception at 11:30 am. The march on the mall follows with several hundred thousand people from across the United States. There may be some seats available on some of the buses from parishes across the Diocese. For information about getting a seat on a bus, contact the Office of Human Life and Dignity at Melissa.DuCharme@raldioc.org. - See more at: http://dioceseofraleigh.org/offices/ communications/centralized-mail#sthash.6O39tNgd.dpuf. 10 Small Group Opportunities AA Meeting: Alcoholic Anonymous, daily at 7:15 am in Laverna, (log cabin). Enter through the garage. Al-Anon Meetings: Sun. 7pm, Anthony Hall Rm 403. Adult Open Play Nights: Assisi Community Center Gym. Visit http://stfrancisraleigh.wordpress.com/ community-life/athletic-programs/adult/ to contact the ministry leaders for each of our adult open play nights. Always Our Children: Safe, welcoming confidential place for GLBT persons and family/friends of GLBT persons to discuss issues of personal concern. Meeting Sunday, December 7, 3:15 pm, Anthony Hall Room 403. Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers Support Group: The first Wednesday of the month, 1:00-3:00 pm in the Padua Room of the Assisi Community Center and the third Wednesday of the month, 7:00-9:00 pm in Anthony Hall Room 405. Carol Gault 919-239-4620. Centering Prayer: Thursdays, 9:35 am or 7:30 pm in St. Mary of the Angels Chapel. Community Center Classes: Regular exercise classes and parent/child classes run on a weekly basis. http://stfrancisraleigh.wordpress.com/community-life/ programs. Community Garden: Saturday mornings, 10:00 am. Call Pat or Paul Kelly at 919-413-8833, email mpmkelly@hotmail.com or just drop by. Exercise Programs: http://bit.ly/14T9JXR. Mass of the Anointing: Tuesday, December 9 at the 9:00 am Mass in St. Mary of the Angels Chapel. Coffee in the Padua Room of the Assisi Community Center following Mass. Men’s Ministry: Breakfast, Monday, December 1, 7:00 am, Padua Room of the Assisi Community Center. Visit www.bit.ly/SFAMensMinistry for details Prayer Shawl Ministry: Thursday, December 4, 12:30 pm, Clare Hall Room 202. Call Regina Sisinni at 919-803-6444 or Cindy Cardello at 919-846-8825. Rosary Ministry: Mondays, 7:30 - 8:30 pm, St. Mary of the Angels Chapel. 55+ Adults Group: Monthly potluck luncheons starting at 12:00 noon throughout the year and monthly game days starting at 11:00 am, September through May in Clare Fellowship Hall. The St. Francis Single/Single Again Ministry: Meets on Thurs. evenings. Activity nights include service evenings, game nights, book club, and night on the town. Contact Kathy Duckworth, mduckworth1@nc.rr.com or Kathy Reynolds, kkvision1@gmail.com. Third Option: A marriage skills-building small group: http://bit.ly/sfathirdoption Young Adults Community: (20’s and 30’s) Weekly Bible study every Wed.,7:00 pm, Anthony Hall Rm. 403. Welcoming Coffees: Our next welcoming coffee will be held on Sunday, January 11 after 9:30 am Mass. Contact Trina Sugrue at 919-847-8205x245, trina.sugrue@stfrancisraleigh.org. Register at www.stfrancisraleigh.org/welcome_events. 11 Faith in Action: Catholic Social Teaching Monthly Theme: Life & Dignity of the Human Person: Belief in the inherent dignity of the human person is the foundation of all Catholic Social Teaching. Human life is sacred and the dignity of the human person is the starting point for a moral vision for society. This principle is grounded in the idea that the person is made in the image of God. The obligation to "love our neighbor" has an individual dimension but it also requires contributing to the good of the whole society, to the common good. “I ask everyone with political responsibility to remember two things: human dignity and the common good.” - Pope Francis Pray: Lord and giver of all life, help us to value each person, created in love by you. Learn and Act: Go to www.stfrancisraleigh.org and click on Justice and Peace and Faith in Action. 12 Parish Office: 919-847-8205 Administration Collection Counters Columbarium & Mem. Plaques Volunteer Receptionists Webmaster Pat Kowite Joan Port Sue Mathys Tricia Downs Stewardship Opportunities 847-8205x229 847-8205x249 847-8205x222 847-8205x234 Community Life Youth Basketball High School Basketball Youth Volleyball Adult Summer Basketball Adult Gym Nights Community Center Programs Summer Camps Parish Community Events Assisi Café Volunteers Assisi Café Entertainment Babysitting Co-Op II Rich Wessel 870-1643 Tim Burns 949-4472 Mary Arleth 847-8205x379 Tim Burns 949-4472 Tricia Henry 847-8205x375 Ashley Watson 847-8205x444 Ashley Watson 847-8205x444 Tricia Henry 847-8205x375 Ashley Watson 847-8205x444 Diogenes Ruiz 847-8205x271 Catherine Walvoord stfrancisbsc2@gmail.com Evangelization Returning Catholics Fr. David McBriar Rite of Christian Initiation-Adults Jules Weber Christian Initiation of Children Jules Weber Intergeneration. Fam. FF (FIRE) Jules Weber 847-8205x261 847-8205x242 847-8205x242 847-8205x242 Liturgy Liturgical Ministry Mailbox Children’s Liturgy of the Word Play and Pray Church Keeping Cross Bearers Deaf Ministry Environment & Art Eucharistic Ministers Funeral Ministers Lectors Master of Ceremonies Music Ministry Parking Ministry Servers Ushers Wedding Directors liturgical-admin@stfrancisraleigh.org Jackie Kelly 896-6297 Niamh Crotty niamh.crotty@stfrancisraleigh.org Beverly Saunders 846-5795 Tresa Pickup 847-8205x488 Jean Cooke-Byrne 412-8365 Theresa Baumgartner 848-3383 Margaret Monteleone 233-4781 Deb Rodi 803-3304 Jane Paris stfrancisraleighEMs@gmail.com Lisa Gianturco 845-9718 Mike Wrzesien 624-1592 Michael & Julie Ducatte 622-8883 stfrancisraleighMCs@gmail.com Bob Kaczynski robert.kaczynski@nc.rr.com Joyce Petzka jepetzka@gmail.com Steve Burdett 845-2714 Chet Wayland 870-6110 John Cuomo 931-4308 Troy Chaput 665-7194 Judy Ferraro 395-3005 Family Life AAMEN Ministry Baptism Preparation Family & Marriage Enrichment Gay & Lesbian Ministry Leon Cooke 740-7515 Bill & Regina McCrorie 847-6757 Steve & Cecy Becker 870-0694 Jane Paris 847-7431 Chris O’Neill 210-5319 Gay & Lesbian Parent Support Joe Pietrus 609-8425 Marriage Preparation Team Theresa & Mark Baumgartner 848-3383 Men’s Ministry Steve Becker 870-0694 San Damiano House Marc Kielty 847-8205x266 55+ Adults Group Pat Gerney 803-8276 Senior Monthly Potluck Joe & Kate Corsaro 554-4498 Single/Single Again Kathy Duckworth mduckworth1@nc.rr.com Kathy Reynolds kkvision1@gmail.com Young Adults Melissa Misko stfrancisyac@gmail.com Other Organizations Knights of Columbus Marriage Encounter Boy Scouts Cub Scouts (pack352nc.org) Girl Scouts Secular Franciscan Order Brian D. Denison Charlie Abbott Angela Abbott Pete Oertel Chris Triplett Jamie Johnson Joanne Jacovec brian.d.denison@gmail.com ncmarriagediscovery.org 556-7401 781-8055 crtriplett@gmail.com 847-8205x379 jacovec@live.com Fax: 919-870-1790 Campus Spring and Fall Beautification Care and Wellness Resurrection Ministries Consolation & Care Emmaus Ministers Funeral Receptions Eucharistic Ministries EMs to Abbotswood EMs to the Homebound EMs to the Magnolia Glen EMs to the Meadows EMs to Rex Hospital EMs to Springmoor Jim Anderson 847-8205x263 Celesta Carlson Paddy Pagnani Celesta Carlson 818-4122 570-8684 818-4122 Gerry & Karen Collins gcollins3@nc.rr.com Pat Spencer 706-5324 Erica Schaab Emerson 617-7765 Andrea McVerry amcverry@yahoo.com Janet Smolenski 500-1971 Mary Papi 381-6764 Ministries to the Infirm, Sick, and Hospitalized Transportation to Mass Caregivers Caregivers 402 Line Medical Facility Visitation Ministries of Care & Presence Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers Divorce Survival Guide Feed the Need Hope After Loss Job Connections Project Rachel Stephen Ministry Special Needs Ministry Stephanie Smith Carol Derrenbacher Sharon Holland 302-0080 554-2578 847-8205x402 hollandbozo@yahoo.com Carol Gault 239-4620 William Morgan dejanuts@yahoo.com Donna Mariani 326-3768 Mary Kane 818-7250 Vince Papi 926-7193 projectrachel@nc.rr.com 852-1021 Kathleen Owen 847-8205x241 Heather Lisk hlisk@nc.rr.com Karen Ondejko karen@ondejko.com Ministries of Prayer & Faith Sharing Centering Prayer Prayer Line Prayer Shawl Ministry Rosary Ministry Alice Stanford 781-5860 Susan Stamey susanstamey.pr@gmail.com Regina Sisinni 803-6444 Cindy Cardello 846-8825 Judy Newell 977-9058 Justice and Peace Education and Advocacy Ministries Dignity of Life - Danielle Merritt-Sunseri dignityoflife@stfrancisraleigh.org Committee for Immigration Justice Trevor Thompson 847-8205x270 JustFaith Sheila Read 847-8205x420 Justice Theater Project Deb Royals-Mizerk 272-1551 Racial Awareness & Religious Exchange Tom Zimmerman 870-1379 Witness for Peace Southeast Gail Phares 856-9468 Service Ministries AIDS Care Team Tom Zimmerman 870-1379 Blood Drive Tom & Elaine Dupree 577-6901 Brown Bag Ministry Rich Zemonek rzemonek@yahoo.com Catholic Parish Outreach (873-0245) Sue Hand 846-7954 Community Garden Pat & Paul Kelly 413-8833 Disaster Recovery Janet Mintel 676-6352 Duke Children's Hospital Ginny Winckelmann 848-8791 Gabriel Project - Kip Moffett kiplyne.moffett@gmail.com Habitat for Humanity Diane & Bob Steinbeiser 846-8026 Inter-Faith Food Shuttle (250-0043) Suzanne Szymendera 845-4885 Migrant Ministry Terrence McDonald 538-4627 Passage Home (834-0666) Peg Cavender 985-5950 Prison Pen Pal Pam Boyan pamela.boyan@gmail.com Ronald McDonald House Julie & Jason Huckaby 624-5065 Sister Parish - Guatemala Carie Gunnell carie.gunnells@gmail.com St. Francis Feeds Donna Mariani 326-3768 St. Francis Inn, Philadelphia John Budway 305-205-5104 Support Circles Ellen Ferrone 381-5509 Wake Interfaith Hospitality Network Ron Smith 455-7786 13 Our Pastoral Staff Parish Office: 919-847-8205 Fax: 919-870-1790 St. Francis Preschool FRANCISCAN FRIARS 240 Cathy Ashton, Assistant Principal for Preschool 261 Fr. David McBriar, O.F.M., Associate Pastor 262 Shelley Freeman, Administrative Specialist 223 Fr. William E. McConville, O.F.M., Associate Pastor Cardinal Gibbons High School 919-834-1625 249 Joan Port, Assistant to the Pastor 224 Fr. Steve Patti, O.F.M., Pastor PASTORAL MINISTRIES EVANGELIZATION MINISTRIES 268 Jackie Adamo, Admin. Specialist-Care and Wellness 473 Trish Adamkowski, Administrative Specialist 289 Terri Layer, Admin. Specialist-Family Life 264 Martina Dumberger, Administrative Specialist 244 Jason Lillis, Coordinator of Family Life 239 Dawn Eagan, Coordinator of Family Formation-Children 241 Kathleen Owen, Coordinator of Care and Wellness 238 Jennifer Fiduccia, Coordinator of Family Formation 420 Sheila Read, Justice and Peace Specialist 269 Jennifer McCourt, Administrative Specialist 270 Trevor Thompson, Director of Justice and Peace 236 Matt Merry, Coordinator of Family Formation-Youth FINANCE AND PLANNING 488 Tresa Pickup, Administrative Specialist 228 Charlie Abbott, Financial Administrator 242 Jules Weber, Director of Formation and Evangelization 229 Pat Kowite, Coordinator of Finance and Administration 230 Jim Wahl, Coordinator of Liturgy and Music 243 Robert Neppel, Director of Finance and Planning CATHOLIC EDUCATION MINISTRIES The Franciscan School PARISH OPERATIONS 255 Marie Leone, Receptionist (Main Number) 263 Jim Anderson, Facilities Manager 233 Jennifer Bigelow, Principal 234 Tricia Downs, Database/Web Specialist 254 Michele Northington, Asst. Principal - Student Life and Activities 265 Toni Hammes, Admin. Specialist-Stewardship 251 Joanne Sullivan, School Nurse 375 Tricia Henry, Coordinator of Community Life 469 Lura Tysiac, Coordinator of Marketing and Admissions 227 Marc Kielty, Director of Parish Operations 314 Laureen Wacenske, Guidance 222 Sue Mathys, Coordinator of Stewardship 651 Mike Watson, Asst. Principal-Curriculum and Personnel 271 Diogenes Ruiz, Communication Specialist 245 Trina Sugrue, Admin. Specialist-Safe Environment & Welcome 242 Jules Weber, Asst. Principal-Formation and Evangelization Staff email address: firstname.lastname@stfrancisraleigh.org OUR PASTORAL COUNCIL Jim Carr, Patty Carr, Julia Earnhardt, Tim Fischer, Thomas Graham, Robert Longley Alberto Lopez, Sue Mathys, Liz Mosler, Vince Papi, Jane Paris, Steve Patti, O.F.M. OUR FINANCE COUNCIL Delynn Alexander, Jennifer Bigelow, Betty Camp, Rebecca Daumen, Steve Dilger Julio de la Rosa, Ron Doggett, Tim Hrehor, Bill Laxton, Robert Longley, Mike Keleher, Marc Kielty, Adam McCarthy, Tom Mense, Robert Neppel, David Nerz, John Smith, Bob Randolph, Steve Patti O.F.M. OUR SCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCIL Jennifer Bigelow, Jim Carr (co-chair), Patty Carr (co-chair), Mike Keleher, Robert Neppel, Michele Northington, Phil Strand, Lisa Tomaino, Steve Patti, O.F.M. OUR PRESCHOOL ADVISORY COUNCIL Cathy Ashton, Jennifer Bigelow, Amy Challgren, Barb Dobner, Nicole Gass, Darren Harris, Gail Hemedinger, Trey Morris, Liz Mosler, Heather Lisk, Steve Patti, O.F.M. Local and Out Of Town Deliveries! • Fresh/Silk Flowers • Food/Gift Baskets Plants/Balloons • Holiday Décor/Bows • Thanksgiving and Christmas Centerpieces • Poinsettias, Poinsettias, Poinsettias!!! • CELEBRATIONS SHOPPING CENTER (SIX FORKS & SAWMILL) 7457 Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC 27615 Chauncy F. Nelson, DDS, MS, PA, parishioner 10940 Raven Ridge Road, Suite 204 (919) 845-2900 Making the world a more beautiful place...one smile at a time.™ nelsonorthodontics.com ✂ Please Cut Out This “Thank You Ad” (919) 847-3381 • www.northraleighflorist.com and Present It The Next Time You Patronize One of Our Advertisers PHILIP R. TAYLOR Financial Advisor 4208 Six Forks Rd - Suite 1000 - Raleigh, NC 919.201.7514 25 YEARS - CUSTOM HOMES, ADDITIONS & REMODELING michael@ducatte.com www.ducatte.com Retirement & Estate Planning www.PhilipRTaylor.com 919-645-5760 or 800-681-9860 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC Thank you for advertising in our church bulletin. I am patronizing your business because of it! MICHAEL & JULIE, PARISHIONERS Come Sail Away on a 7-night Catholic Exotic Cruise. Prices begin at $1045 per couple which includes all port fees and taxes. Daily Mass and Rosary offered. Deposit of only $100 per person will reserve your cabin. Space is limited. Thanks and God Bless, Brian or Sally, coordinators 860.399.1785 006792 St Francis of Assisi Church (C) www.jspaluch.com an Official Travel Agency of AOS-USA For Ads: J.S. Paluch Co., Inc. 1-800-432-3240 J & L LANDSCAPING, INC. Jerry Sroka THE DILEONE LAW GROUP, P.C. $5 Off Annual Your local, full service landscaping company JLLandscape@nc.rr.com 919-518-8002 Ralph J. DiLeone, Attorney/Parishioner 919-791-0900 www.dileone.com Business Law Registration with this ad Contracts Plan Wills/Trusts Protect Franchising Litigation Prevail Patio & Walls Irrigation Erosion & Drainage Landscape Lighting ★ Gymnastics ★ Tumbling 10700 World Trade Blvd. Lawn Maintenance Tree & Shrubs ★ Birthdays ★ Camps Raleigh, NC 27617 Design & Installations & Maintenance www.wakegymnastics.com Brier Creek Location Parishioner at St. Francis 919.572.5320 Parishioner Julie Zervos DDS & Amy Earwood DDS, PA 900 Paverstone Dr. 919-847-8413 www.zervosandearwood.com LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED INSTALLATION-SALES-MAINTENANCE WE SERVICE ALL MAKES & MODELS! HEATING AND AIR COMFORT SPECIALISTS NEW YEAR’S SALE! SAVE THIS AD! 0% FINANCING FOR 36 MONTHS EMERGENCY OR UP TO HEATING & AIR $1000 CASH BACK SERVICE AVAILABLE EVENINGS &WEEKENDS ON PURCHASE OF A HIGH EFFICIENCY HOME COMFORT SYSTEM THRU MARCH 31ST. CALL FOR DETAILS CALL 919-782-6242! Jane S. Smith, M.D. We Make House Calls Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney and Healthcare Directives, prepared and executed in your own home at your convenience. Discounts for Veterans, Public Service Personnel & Seniors 60+ 919-844-4444 919.870.6892 Kathryn S. Kabat, Attorney at Law $35 OFF ONLY $45 $250 OFF $400 OFF CALL 919-782-6242! FREE Comprehensive Adult Dentistry, Parishioner 7701 Six Forks Rd., Ste. 110 Raleigh, NC 27615 (919) 439-3843 • kkabat@nc.rr.com www.WillsOnWheelsNC.com Shutters, Blinds, Draperies & More HEATING REPAIR Apex Funeral Home 550 W. Williams St., Apex, NC www.apexfuneral.com FREE HEATING INSPECTION WITH CARBON MONOXIDE CHECK ANY HVAC REPAIR Call Us Today! ANY NEW INSTALL SERVICE CALL NEW WATER HEATER parishioner in home consultation & install 200 SE Maynard Rd., Cary, NC 300 Saint Mary’s St., Raleigh, NC 1701 E. Millbrook Rd., Raleigh, NC www.brownwynne.com 7209 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, NC www.mitchellatrmp.com “Your dog will digg it” 7501 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, NC 919-787-2766 www.raleighmemorialpark.com 8109 Ebenezer Church Rd. Raleigh, NC 27612 www.dogdiggitydaycare.com Your Local Dignity Providers 919-876-4746 Oral Surgery • Dental Implant Surgery Surgery with a Caring Hand 7101 Creedmoor Rd., Suite 109, Raleigh, NC 27613 919.846.5500 Diplomate American Board of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Family Law Services • Bankruptcy Ch. 7 & 13 Michael A. Julyan Parishioner Michael W. Hopper 3737 Glenwood Ave. • Suite 270 • Raleigh, NC 27612 www.wakelegal.com (919) 876-3300 (11 USC 528) Disclosure: We are attorneys that practice in the legal area of bankruptcy law Oceanfront 3 bedrm/2 bath condo at Indian Beach, Summer Winds, all amenities on site. Parishioner Discount. #320 Summer Winds 800-972-8899 www.ncvacations.com www.TriangleOralSurgery.com Helping GOOD PEOPLE get out of BAD SITUATIONS 919-783-7128 Raleigh Memorial Park and Mausoleums (919) 788-2107 www.raleighoralsurgery.com 8301 Bandford Way, Suite 121, Raleigh, NC 27615 919-467-8108 919-828-4311 919-876-6900 Mitchell Funeral Home at Raleigh Memorial Park 919-782-6242 • allamerican-nc.com Parishioner • 8817 Westgate Park Drive • Ste 108 Wisdom Teeth Dental Implant surgery 919-362-8233 Brown-Wynne Funeral Homes and Crematory 919-875-0116 30% off Signature Window Cover with this ad WITH ANY REPAIR OVER $300 John A. Pearson, DDS Jay A. Jefferson, DMD Brian H. Camp, DDS, MD www.DrLisk.com Philip A. Lisk, DDS, PA Captain, USAF/JAG (Retired) UP TO TREATING YOUR VEINS SPIDER VEINS TO VARICOSE VEINS www.veincareofnc.com Saint Margaret Sunday Missal An ideal companion for personal prayer. Richard J. Schneider, M.D. Parishioner In Stock & Ready to Order Today. CALL OR ORDER ONLINE. $39.95 Duke Primary Care Creedmoor Road Internal Medicine Medical Director 7200 Creedmoor Rd. Ste. 208 Raleigh, NC 27613 Tel: 919.327.1650 • Fax: 919.327.1667 www.dukemedicine.org 800-566-6150 • www.wlpmusic.com I Want to Help You Research, Customize and Go On That Special Trip & Share in the Joy it Brings! 919-589-2437 Chris Rakes Total EXPERIENCE Travel Treat Yourself. Specialized in All-Inclusive River & Ocean Cruising, Land Tours and Resort Options in the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii and Mexico crakes@totalexperiencetravel.com • www.totalexperiencetravel.com 006792 St Francis of Assisi Church (B) www.jspaluch.com For Ads: J.S. Paluch Co., Inc. 1-800-432-3240 Eric D. Challgren, MD, Parishioner Gregory J. Wilmoth, MD Margaret B. Boyse, MD Laura D. Briley, MD Tracey S. Cloninger, PA-C 919-782-2152 4201 Lake Boone Trail Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27607 DAYLIGHT DONUTS 676.7442 “Stonehenge Market” Parishioner, TFS-Family 5am.-Noon Tues.-Sun. 10% off w/this ad Larry Warner, JD, MBA • Parishioner 919-510-8130 • larry@warnerlawoffices.net • Business Law • Contracts, Leases • Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney • Estate Administration PROTECTING SENIORS NATIONWIDE PUSH 10010 Falls of Neuse Road Suite 102, Raleigh, NC 27614 TALK ........ 24/7 HELP ........ www.southernderm.com Jenny Doyle, Esq. Family Operated Immigration Counsel Abogada de Inmigracion 919.616.4869 $19.95*/Mo. + 1 FREE MONTH ➢ No Long-Term Contracts ➢ Price Guarantee ➢ American Made TOLL FREE: 1-877-801-8608 Bilingual Attorney • OLL Parishioner *First Three Months Practice Limited to Immigration Law. NE Licensed Cruise Planners RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL Bonded ★ Insured ★ Licensed 919-754 919-754 -7977 -7977 Luis & Carolina Calderon Owners / Parishioner www.CleanCarolina.com FST#ST36334/CST#2034468-50 • Faith Based Travel • Individual and Group Rates • Exotic Destinations • All Inclusive Specialist CONTACT: Jamie and Lisa Milligan Parishioners 919.629.4086 www.bambamtravel.com jmilligan@cruiseplanners.com Your Cruise and Land Specialist 919-881-2112 www.OnofrioConstruction.com Interior / Exterior - Residential Commercial / Multi-Family Roofing, Painting, Decks, Fences, Additions, Concrete, Electrical, Window Tinting, HVAC, Siding, Custom Homes Parishioner • Free Estimates • Licensed General Contractor Brier Creek 8201 Brier Creek Pkwy. #107 Takeout • Catering 919.806.5700 www.aladdinseatery.com aladdinsbriercreek@gmail.com 10% OFF With This Ad Dr. Greg Baldy 787-8883 3700 Six Forks Spinal Decompression Massage www.chiropartners.com Parishioner CHAD RICHARDS STATE FARM St. Francis Parishioner BRIAN CARATELLI (Parishioner) *Weight and Body Fat Loss *Youth & Adult Sport Conditioning *Core and Stability Training *Post Rehab Conditioning 919-412-7359 • www.bccfit.com NON-MEDICAL In Home Care AMY MARTIN - Parishioner AUTO • HOME LIFE • DISABILITY LONG TERM CARE N.C. License #HC2182 783.0500 www.ChadRichards.com 5300 Six Forks Road RALEIGH ELKS LODGE The Perfect Venue For Your Wedding, Reception, or Special Event for information contact 919.787.5990 or Raleighelkslodge@gmail.com CALVERT PAINTING A T RUE SLICE OF Full Irish Breakfasts & Lunch Brierdale Shopping Center at Brier Creek 10730 Moncreiffe Rd., Suite 109 Raleigh, NC 27617 919-544-4141 www.traliirishpub.com • info@traliirishpub.com 006792 St Francis of Assisi Church (A) I RELAND $5.00 off Valid for food purchases over $25 Excl. Alcohol, tax and tip. One per check. Join us for a delicious Weekend Brunch starting at 11 am Interior • Exterior • Decks Carpentry • Staining Pressure Washing 870-2999 www.calvertpainting.com Since 1980 Insured Sam Calvert, Parishioner References • Free Estimates Consider Remembering Your Parish in Your Will. www.visitingangels.com/raleigh 919-856-9494 • Litigation • Estate Planning • Employment Law • BusinessLaw/Contracts shanahanlawgroup.com Bill Duncan, Broker Home Buying & Selling Assistance Real Estate Investments Full Property Management Relocation Assistance PHONE: (919)-518-8122 CELL: (919)-247-6017 billduncan@nc.rr.com St.Francis Parisioner Jo-Anne V.LPC,Ludwig , LCAS, PA What’s bothering you? I can help! Short Term Solution Focused Counseling For: Children, Adolescents, Adults, Families, Couples/Partners 919-593-7748 www.frombackpackstobriefcases.com Licensed Professional Counselor Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED For further information, Specializing in Rehearsal Dinners and family celebrations. please call the Parish Office. 1 mi west of Crabtree Valley Mall www.jspaluch.com 781-8750 For Ads: J.S. Paluch Co., Inc. 1-800-432-3240 Inspired by our patron Francis of Assisi, we seek to proclaim the reign of God by growing in Holiness through our experience of Christ in word, sacrament and one another, offering Hope to those who hunger for human dignity, and extending Hospitality to all. Holiness Small Christian Communities-SCC: St. Francis of Assisi creates a culture of faith-sharing, conversion, and relational ministry within all types of small groups. Join the SCC Vision Team to support these groups by setting goals, offering resources, information, and opportunities for existing and future SCCs. Contact: Mary Morch, mcmorch@gmail.com or Gladys Whitehouse, gladys.whitehouse@gmail.com. Small Group Leaders Change Lives: We are looking for adults who are passionate about their faith and want to help our young people deepen their own, to be small group leaders for our children and youth formation programs. No experience is necessary. We will give you everything you need. If you: • enjoy working with children/youth; • like to talk about Jesus; • want to be a part of a dynamic and supportive small community; please prayerfully consider this amazing opportunity to help shape the next generation of our church! For more information, contact Jenn at jennifer.fiduccia@stfrancisraleigh.org. Play and Pray Employment Opening: We are looking for loving and reliable caregivers to staff our Sunday Morning Play and Pray nursery for children who are 12-23 months old. If you are passionate about your faith and want to radiate the love of Christ with these RCIA Sponsors Needed: We are in need of 12 sponsors for RCIA. Would you consider joining us? Contact: Jules Weber at jules.weber@stfrancisraleigh.org. 8 young people, please answer the call. In addition to serving young children, you would be providing a great service to parents who would then have the opportunity to attend Mass as a couple and be spiritually refilled. The hours are 9:00 am-1:00 pm every Sunday (except major holidays). Candidates should have experience working with young children, and have/be able to complete Level C Safe Environment Certification. Please send cover letter/resumé to niamh.crotty@stfrancisraleigh.org. Play and Pray: Quality childcare and formation during Mass for ages 1 and walking through 4. To enroll, visit: stfrancisraleigh.org/enroll. Small Christian Communities: For Advent, the offerings of At Home With The Word (available for $4) and the weekly online resource Living the Good News (free!) are available to our Small Christian Communities. To reserve a copy of At Home With the Word, email jules.weber@stfrancisraleigh.org. For Living the Good News go to https://www.livingthegoodnews.com/ #YourAccount Use login: faith.formation@stfrancisraleigh.org Password: #1Francis (case sensitive) For an online tutorial visit http://youtu.be/-Zzsvfo3zHQ. Find information about Small Christian Communities and other Adult Formation Opportunities at www.stfrancisraleigh.wordpress.com/ opportunities-for-adult-formation. Interfaith Thanksgiving Prayer Service: Happy Thanksgiving! Join with members of differing faith traditions in our extended community to give thanks to God. The Thanksgiving Interfaith prayer service will be held at Benson United Methodist Church on Tuesday, November 25 at 7:30 pm. Hope Job Connections Ministry: If you’re looking for your next career, let us help. We provide individual coaching assistance, resumé review, and networking help. Employers, please consider listing your positions with our Job Connections Ministry. Coaches, consider joining our leadership team by contacting Vince Papi at 919-926-7193. Ronald McDonald House Dinner: Sign up to donate food or prepare a meal for families of sick children. Contact: Julie Huckaby, 919-624-5065, julie.huckaby@unchealth.unc.edu. Feed the Need: During this season of family and food, please consider providing a Caring Casserole to a family facing a significant life event. Bring your freezable casserole with a list of ingredients and reheating instructions to the Feed the Need refrigerator in Clare Hall or call Donna Mariani at 919-326-3768. Advent Giving Tree: November 25 through December 14. Our most popular donations drive of the year provides parishioners with opportunities to give Christmas gifts to families in need. Featuring 2,000 ornaments and 20 different ministries or community organizations. Choose ornaments, shop for gifts and return gifts to the Stewardship Center. A Word on the Inspired Word: Daily reflections by Fr. Bill. Sign up at www.stfrancisraleigh.wordpress.com/ email-subscriptions. Habitat for Humanity: Seeking fellowship and hands-on service? Join St. Francis parishioners Dec. 6 for our last St. Francis Habitat for Humanity work date this year. Needed: 15 volunteers, age 16 or older. Contact: Diane Steinbeiser, 919-846-8026, sfhabitat@gmail.com. Sister Parish Guatemala Information Night: We are excited to announce the dates of our Summer 2015 delegation to visit our brothers and sisters in Guatemala. Delegates will leave on June 15 and return on June 25. During our visit, we will live, eat, work, and pray with our host families and other villagers in Las Margaritas II, Guatemala. Each delegate will need to raise $2,000, which covers airfare, food, accommodations, and transportation. Fundraising assistance is offered. If you are interested in participating in a life-changing journey and fostering a wonderful friendship that began over 20 years ago, please contact Carie Gunnells at 864-320-9452 or carie.gunnells@gmail.com for more information. An information session will be held Thursday December 4 at 6pm in the Anthony Conference Room (Rm. 402). We are upgrading the parish website. Thanks to all of you who participated in our website review focus group. Your input was very helpful in enhancing this important parish communication tool. Hospitality Making Music Praying Twice: Join this fun, hands-on music course. Children (0-5 years) and parents use instruments, toys, and scarves to dance, chant, sing, play games, and pray together. For info/registration visit: http://stfrancisraleigh.wordpress.com/ community-life/programs/ parentchild-classes. Young Families Newsletter: A weekly update for families with young children to connect with each other and with relevant opportunities at St. Francis of Assisi. Sign up for our newsletter at http://bit.ly/sfayfn, or check out recent newsletters at http://bit.ly/ youngfamiliesnewsletter. Transportation Ministry-Drivers Needed: Looking for a good way to share ministry with your children? Could you bring someone to Mass once each month? Contact Stephanie Smith at 919-302-0080 to find out more. Sing & Sign Playtime: In a playful environment, children and parents can practice the signs they already know or learn new signs to go along with fun songs and activities. This 30 minute class is designed to keep American Sign Language fun and entertaining. No previous signing experience is necessary. Class is geared towards children 10-36 months old. Come ready to sing, laugh, read books, sign and dance. Join us. Wednesdays, 9:30 10:00 am, through December 17 at the Assisi Community Center. For more info, visit www.stfrancisraleigh.wordpress.com/ community-life/programs/parentchildclasses. Great Date Nights: Friendship – Fuel for Romance. Join us for our monthly short presentation on healthy relationships before we send you out on a date night with your partner! Childcare available for children ages 2-12. The next date is Friday, January 9. Contact Jason Lillis, 919-847-8205x244 or RSVP at http://bit.ly/sfamfe. 15th Annual Advent Pancake Breakfast: The tradition continues with a few surprises! Please join us for a wonderful morning of fun and fellowship as we gather to celebrate the feast of St. Nicholas. Delicious food, live music and caroling, crafts and even a story from St. Nicholas himself! Saturday, December 6, seatings at 8:30 am and 10:00 am. Cost is $15 per family. Registration information coming soon. Questions, contact either Kristy Szabo at kristine.szabo@merck.com or Michelle Staub at mstaub2@me.com. The upgrade should be live on December 1. Please bear with us as we work out any kinks in the process. 9
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