Welcome Buckaroos to the "Circle of Friends Ranch" at St. Louis Parish Center in Dykesville!
Holy Cross children age 4 to 4th grade are invited to our Vacation Bible School on June 18 – 22 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
At Vacation Bible School, you will visit a different site each day: Trading Post, Campfire, Cookhouse, Ranger Trail and Lodge. You’ll learn about Jesus and his friends, make crafts, play games and sing songs.
Registration forms are available on the bulletin board at Holy Cross School, or by calling Kathy Cornette at St. Louis (866-2842). Everyone needs to call to pre-register before June 11th. All are welcome!
Monday, May 28, 2007
Saturday, May 26, 2007
From the Pastor's Desk...
My Dear Parishioners,
In 1922 archaeologists discovered the 3,000 year old tomb of the boy King Tutankhamen near Luxor, Egypt. Inside was a fabulous treasure and also some grains of wheat for the pharaoh on his journey to the afterworld. Legend has it that these grains were planted and had sprouted. Botanist scoff, yet this wheat is supposedly sold today under the brand name Kamut, the Egyptian word for wheat.
Pentecost is the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise that after His Ascension the Father would send the Holy Spirit. His assurance is filled with hope, like the grains of wheat placed in the Egyptian tomb 1,000 years before Jesus. The harvest from the Holy Spirit has sprouted inside millions of lives through each generation. Non-believers scoff, yet this faith is alive today, and guaranteed to continue to yield a great harvest of faith.
As we bring to a close our celebration of the great feast of Easter we might ask ourselves if we are “OPEN” to the power of the Holy Spirit who offers each of us His Gifts – one of our priests, Father Al McBride, gave those who attended our parish retreat last year a prayer for the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and I offer it to you on this the Birthday of our Church:
Prayer for the 7 Gifts of the Holy Spirit
by Rev. Alfred McBride O.Praem
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Wisdom. Sanctify my every thought,
word and deed.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Knowledge and Love of
Jesus and Mary.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Understanding, that I may know
myself, that I may know You.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Courage, that I may serve You
with a cheerful heart.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Counsel, that I may serve You with
a cheerful heart.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Piety, that I may always do God’s will.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Fear of the Lord, that I may fear
to sin or be separated from the
Love of Christ. AMEN
In 1922 archaeologists discovered the 3,000 year old tomb of the boy King Tutankhamen near Luxor, Egypt. Inside was a fabulous treasure and also some grains of wheat for the pharaoh on his journey to the afterworld. Legend has it that these grains were planted and had sprouted. Botanist scoff, yet this wheat is supposedly sold today under the brand name Kamut, the Egyptian word for wheat.
Pentecost is the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise that after His Ascension the Father would send the Holy Spirit. His assurance is filled with hope, like the grains of wheat placed in the Egyptian tomb 1,000 years before Jesus. The harvest from the Holy Spirit has sprouted inside millions of lives through each generation. Non-believers scoff, yet this faith is alive today, and guaranteed to continue to yield a great harvest of faith.
As we bring to a close our celebration of the great feast of Easter we might ask ourselves if we are “OPEN” to the power of the Holy Spirit who offers each of us His Gifts – one of our priests, Father Al McBride, gave those who attended our parish retreat last year a prayer for the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and I offer it to you on this the Birthday of our Church:
Prayer for the 7 Gifts of the Holy Spirit
by Rev. Alfred McBride O.Praem
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Wisdom. Sanctify my every thought,
word and deed.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Knowledge and Love of
Jesus and Mary.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Understanding, that I may know
myself, that I may know You.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Courage, that I may serve You
with a cheerful heart.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Counsel, that I may serve You with
a cheerful heart.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Piety, that I may always do God’s will.
Come Holy Spirit with the Gift of
Fear of the Lord, that I may fear
to sin or be separated from the
Love of Christ. AMEN
Friday, May 25, 2007
New Funeral Luncheon Coordinator Steps Forward
Dear Holy Cross Parish Family,
Hello. My name is Cheryl VanDenMeerendonk. With other families, our heritage grows deep in the roots of this community. We have been blessed to be a part of this community by parish members that are using "their hands" as "God’s Hands". There is more room in this community, for YOU! Yes, YOU and your family. His command is that we "Love Our Neighbors".
I hope you will stay with me to hear what I have to say! "Community", defined by "Webster’s" uses words like "fellowship", "ownership or participation in common", and of course the obvious "the living in close proximity to others in society".
A community as we know it, doesn’t just happen. It involves give, take and commitment. It is evident that we are a "community" recognized by others in the way that so many came forth to save our school, who come to work or support the church picnic, plan and solicit for the school auction, and those that attend in support of it. As a result of our struggles and triumphs, we, Holy Cross, are known as a "tight bunch" around Green Bay.
"Once a community, always a community." Not necessarily true. Without acts of stewardship a big "chip" is taken off the "block" of our community.
If you are still with me, I‘d like to announce myself as the new Funeral Lunch Coordinator. Funeral Luncheons are available to all Parish Members. The "hands on" crew setting up, serving and cleaning up have the "desire to retire". We have the advantage now of learning the ropes from them, working beside, and getting to know these people, wonderful treasures we have in a different generation of parish members. I ask that you each, male, female, middle school and older, give prayerful thought to making yourself available to help, to participate in our community. The luncheon program has been in place for 25+ years. You may have already, or may one day rely upon this stewardship, in the event of a death in your own family.
Please don’t dismiss this if you work during the week. Funerals are also on the weekends. Please review the attached form and look for ways to participate. The service has actually been requested seldom over the last few years.
In the event that a luncheon is requested, I would like to have volunteers that I can call, for the different needs. If that day doesn’t work out to come in or to prepare a dish, that’s OK. I hope to have a directory FULL of name to have as a resource. Please call or e-mail me to let me know what you can do to help. My number is 469-3444, Cell 227-3400, email, vanxfive@sbcglobal.net.
Thank you again, for your prayerful consideration,
Cheryl
Hello. My name is Cheryl VanDenMeerendonk. With other families, our heritage grows deep in the roots of this community. We have been blessed to be a part of this community by parish members that are using "their hands" as "God’s Hands". There is more room in this community, for YOU! Yes, YOU and your family. His command is that we "Love Our Neighbors".
I hope you will stay with me to hear what I have to say! "Community", defined by "Webster’s" uses words like "fellowship", "ownership or participation in common", and of course the obvious "the living in close proximity to others in society".
A community as we know it, doesn’t just happen. It involves give, take and commitment. It is evident that we are a "community" recognized by others in the way that so many came forth to save our school, who come to work or support the church picnic, plan and solicit for the school auction, and those that attend in support of it. As a result of our struggles and triumphs, we, Holy Cross, are known as a "tight bunch" around Green Bay.
"Once a community, always a community." Not necessarily true. Without acts of stewardship a big "chip" is taken off the "block" of our community.
If you are still with me, I‘d like to announce myself as the new Funeral Lunch Coordinator. Funeral Luncheons are available to all Parish Members. The "hands on" crew setting up, serving and cleaning up have the "desire to retire". We have the advantage now of learning the ropes from them, working beside, and getting to know these people, wonderful treasures we have in a different generation of parish members. I ask that you each, male, female, middle school and older, give prayerful thought to making yourself available to help, to participate in our community. The luncheon program has been in place for 25+ years. You may have already, or may one day rely upon this stewardship, in the event of a death in your own family.
Please don’t dismiss this if you work during the week. Funerals are also on the weekends. Please review the attached form and look for ways to participate. The service has actually been requested seldom over the last few years.
In the event that a luncheon is requested, I would like to have volunteers that I can call, for the different needs. If that day doesn’t work out to come in or to prepare a dish, that’s OK. I hope to have a directory FULL of name to have as a resource. Please call or e-mail me to let me know what you can do to help. My number is 469-3444, Cell 227-3400, email, vanxfive@sbcglobal.net.
Thank you again, for your prayerful consideration,
Cheryl
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Reprinted from The Compass: Two Men to be Ordained Deacons May 19
By Jeff Kurowski
Compass Assistant Editor
May 18 Mass caps individuals' participation in nationally accredited formation program. Bp. David Zubik will ordain James Heider and Robert Precourt to the permanent diaconate at 10 a.m. Mass, Saturday, May 19, at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, 140 S. Monroe Avenue, Green Bay.
James Heider
Jim Heider's call to ministry traces back to his childhood in Carroll, Iowa. An uncle and cousin were both Jesuit priests, and Heider considered joining the order.
"I also had many good experiences with priest friends and religious, all of whom encouraged me to live my faith and seek closer communion with God," he said. "My father also gave me a love of scripture and education, and a desire to serve the church."
While he strongly considered the priesthood, Heider instead chose the vocation of marriage after meeting his wife, Linn, at Iowa State University. The couple, who have been married for 37 years, have five children; three who are grown and two at home.
Ministry is important to Heider and his family. His professional experience as a licensed psychologist and his work in ministry complement one another. He works as a school psychologist and counselor for three districts in Northeast Wisconsin, as a mental health consultant at Job Corps in Blackwell, Wis., maintains a part-time private practice in counseling, and does testing and consulting with school, families and agencies with which he contracts.
"I have experience in mental health and spiritual counseling, and founded a clinic known as the Ecumenical Health Center," he said. "My hope is to do work in family therapy and biofeedback in order to benefit Catholics and other Christians in the Northeast Wisconsin area."
"My wife, Linn, and our children enjoy ministry to the homeless at Freedom House, and I enjoy driving and helping out at Paul's Pantry and St. Vincent de Paul," he added. "Sacramental preparation is also an interest, and I have taught second graders for First Reconciliation and Communion for the past three years at Holy Cross Parish in Bay Settlement."
The Heiders have participated in marriage preparation in the Green Bay and La Crosse dioceses and in marriage enrichment in the Diocese of Des Moines, Iowa. Jim also served as a lay presider and in family life, adult and religious education at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Chippewa Falls in the Diocese of La Crosse.
Heider lists Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O.Praem., pastor at Holy Cross Parish, Bay Settlement; Fr. Tim Shillcox, O.Praem., pastor at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, De Pere, and former pastor at Holy Cross; and Fr. Dick Mauthe, who served at the Ecumenical Center at UW-Green Bay; priests of the Sioux City and Des Moines dioceses of Iowa and the Green Bay and La Crosse dioceses of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Province of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) as his ministry role models.
Robert Precourt
Just last week, Bob Precourt's mother, Frances, shared with him how much she was looking forward to Saturday's ordination. Unfortunately, she died at age 102 on Saturday, May 12, in Waupaca. She will be there in spirit, said Precourt.
"She was so happy," he said. "She was a great Catholic, such a woman of faith. She kept my brother and me on the straight and narrow. She lived a wonderful life. She drove until she was 99."
Precourt, who on May 9 was appointed parish director at St. Paul Parish in Plainfield, grew up in Appleton. His Catholic education served as good foundation for ministry, he said. He is a graduate of Xavier High School in Appleton and St. John's University in Collegeville, Minn.
Following college, Precourt worked as a teacher. After earning a master's degree, he opened his own business, Media Management Services in central Wisconsin.
"I did a lot of television writing and producing," he said. "I worked in all media - radio, film and print."
"You get to the point in life where you hear God's call and, if you don't respond, it continues to get louder and louder," said Precourt. "I walked into St. Paul Church in Plainfield 30 years ago. I felt a strong sense of the Holy Spirit in that little church."
Precourt credits the late Fr. Mike Bablitch, pastor at St. Paul in the 1970s, for inviting him to become involved in parish ministry, including religious education.
In 2000, Precourt was active in what he describes as "six minor ministries" at the parish; when members of the St. Paul community encouraged him to take the presiding course at St. Norbert Abbey in De Pere to assist the parish in the absence of a priest. That would eventually lead to the call to serve full-time in parish ministry.
"My wife (Joan) thought I was crazy when I was considering it," he said. "We had three small children at that time (now ages 10, 12 and 14). "I couldn't imagine where I would find the time."
Precourt said Fr. Paul Vanden Hogen, who served as temporary administrator at St. Paul, was influential in his decision to pursue full-time ministry. Following six months of discernment, he entered the Master's of Theological Studies program at St. Norbert and the diaconate.
Precourt, who served St. Paul as a pastoral associate before being appointed parish director, said he welcomes the opportunity as a deacon to respond to the need for sacramental ministry and liturgy outside of Mass.
The transition from a priest serving as administrator at St. Paul to a parish director will bring some challenges, but Precourt is thankful for the opportunity.
"I'm grateful every day," he said. "Each day at this church is so uplifting and inspiring."
The Compass is the award-winning official newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay, Wisconsin. Check out excerpts from the current issue at: www.thecompassnews.org/compass/current/cnindex.shtml.
Compass Assistant Editor
May 18 Mass caps individuals' participation in nationally accredited formation program. Bp. David Zubik will ordain James Heider and Robert Precourt to the permanent diaconate at 10 a.m. Mass, Saturday, May 19, at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, 140 S. Monroe Avenue, Green Bay.
James Heider
Jim Heider's call to ministry traces back to his childhood in Carroll, Iowa. An uncle and cousin were both Jesuit priests, and Heider considered joining the order.
"I also had many good experiences with priest friends and religious, all of whom encouraged me to live my faith and seek closer communion with God," he said. "My father also gave me a love of scripture and education, and a desire to serve the church."
While he strongly considered the priesthood, Heider instead chose the vocation of marriage after meeting his wife, Linn, at Iowa State University. The couple, who have been married for 37 years, have five children; three who are grown and two at home.
Ministry is important to Heider and his family. His professional experience as a licensed psychologist and his work in ministry complement one another. He works as a school psychologist and counselor for three districts in Northeast Wisconsin, as a mental health consultant at Job Corps in Blackwell, Wis., maintains a part-time private practice in counseling, and does testing and consulting with school, families and agencies with which he contracts.
"I have experience in mental health and spiritual counseling, and founded a clinic known as the Ecumenical Health Center," he said. "My hope is to do work in family therapy and biofeedback in order to benefit Catholics and other Christians in the Northeast Wisconsin area."
"My wife, Linn, and our children enjoy ministry to the homeless at Freedom House, and I enjoy driving and helping out at Paul's Pantry and St. Vincent de Paul," he added. "Sacramental preparation is also an interest, and I have taught second graders for First Reconciliation and Communion for the past three years at Holy Cross Parish in Bay Settlement."
The Heiders have participated in marriage preparation in the Green Bay and La Crosse dioceses and in marriage enrichment in the Diocese of Des Moines, Iowa. Jim also served as a lay presider and in family life, adult and religious education at St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Chippewa Falls in the Diocese of La Crosse.
Heider lists Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O.Praem., pastor at Holy Cross Parish, Bay Settlement; Fr. Tim Shillcox, O.Praem., pastor at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, De Pere, and former pastor at Holy Cross; and Fr. Dick Mauthe, who served at the Ecumenical Center at UW-Green Bay; priests of the Sioux City and Des Moines dioceses of Iowa and the Green Bay and La Crosse dioceses of Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Province of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) as his ministry role models.
Robert Precourt
Just last week, Bob Precourt's mother, Frances, shared with him how much she was looking forward to Saturday's ordination. Unfortunately, she died at age 102 on Saturday, May 12, in Waupaca. She will be there in spirit, said Precourt.
"She was so happy," he said. "She was a great Catholic, such a woman of faith. She kept my brother and me on the straight and narrow. She lived a wonderful life. She drove until she was 99."
Precourt, who on May 9 was appointed parish director at St. Paul Parish in Plainfield, grew up in Appleton. His Catholic education served as good foundation for ministry, he said. He is a graduate of Xavier High School in Appleton and St. John's University in Collegeville, Minn.
Following college, Precourt worked as a teacher. After earning a master's degree, he opened his own business, Media Management Services in central Wisconsin.
"I did a lot of television writing and producing," he said. "I worked in all media - radio, film and print."
"You get to the point in life where you hear God's call and, if you don't respond, it continues to get louder and louder," said Precourt. "I walked into St. Paul Church in Plainfield 30 years ago. I felt a strong sense of the Holy Spirit in that little church."
Precourt credits the late Fr. Mike Bablitch, pastor at St. Paul in the 1970s, for inviting him to become involved in parish ministry, including religious education.
In 2000, Precourt was active in what he describes as "six minor ministries" at the parish; when members of the St. Paul community encouraged him to take the presiding course at St. Norbert Abbey in De Pere to assist the parish in the absence of a priest. That would eventually lead to the call to serve full-time in parish ministry.
"My wife (Joan) thought I was crazy when I was considering it," he said. "We had three small children at that time (now ages 10, 12 and 14). "I couldn't imagine where I would find the time."
Precourt said Fr. Paul Vanden Hogen, who served as temporary administrator at St. Paul, was influential in his decision to pursue full-time ministry. Following six months of discernment, he entered the Master's of Theological Studies program at St. Norbert and the diaconate.
Precourt, who served St. Paul as a pastoral associate before being appointed parish director, said he welcomes the opportunity as a deacon to respond to the need for sacramental ministry and liturgy outside of Mass.
The transition from a priest serving as administrator at St. Paul to a parish director will bring some challenges, but Precourt is thankful for the opportunity.
"I'm grateful every day," he said. "Each day at this church is so uplifting and inspiring."
The Compass is the award-winning official newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay, Wisconsin. Check out excerpts from the current issue at: www.thecompassnews.org/compass/current/cnindex.shtml.
Saturday, May 19, 2007
From the Pastor's Desk...
My Dear Parishioners,
Congratulations and Best Wishes and Welcome to Deacon Jim Heider and his wife Linda and their family, as Jim was ordained a Permanent Deacon of the Roman Catholic Church and has been assigned by Bishop David Zubik to Holy Cross Parish Family as a member of the pastoral ministry team. Jim will function at all Masses this Weekend, proclaim the Gospel and offer the Homily. Jim will also Baptize Allison Dorner at the 10 am Mass this weekend. We welcome you Jim and Linda as the newest members of our pastoral team. Thank you for your willingness to serve the people of Holy Cross Parish.
This past Thursday, we had our second training sessions for those willing to give of their time and talent to the Advancing the Mission Campaign. I am deeply impressed by the willingness of all who are willing to work with me on this campaign and if each of us gives our small bit we will accomplish great things for our parish and diocese. Thanks for all who have said “Yes!”
This weekend I celebrate my 70th birthday. I have never thought of being that “old” or that “young” for age is a position of the mind. I feel young and hope to be able to continue to serve the Holy Cross Family for a lot more years to come. Please pray that God continues to bless me with good health. I should tell you that I have accepted a suite of rooms at St Norbert Abbey so that I can continually connect to my religious community and have a place to “get away to.” So I am moving a number of my “things” to the Abbey. My phone number at the Abbey is 337-4356. Do not be afraid to call me there. Keep in mind that for a Norbertine his community is his family and he must be close and connected to that family.
Oremus pro invicem,
Fr Tom
Congratulations and Best Wishes and Welcome to Deacon Jim Heider and his wife Linda and their family, as Jim was ordained a Permanent Deacon of the Roman Catholic Church and has been assigned by Bishop David Zubik to Holy Cross Parish Family as a member of the pastoral ministry team. Jim will function at all Masses this Weekend, proclaim the Gospel and offer the Homily. Jim will also Baptize Allison Dorner at the 10 am Mass this weekend. We welcome you Jim and Linda as the newest members of our pastoral team. Thank you for your willingness to serve the people of Holy Cross Parish.
This past Thursday, we had our second training sessions for those willing to give of their time and talent to the Advancing the Mission Campaign. I am deeply impressed by the willingness of all who are willing to work with me on this campaign and if each of us gives our small bit we will accomplish great things for our parish and diocese. Thanks for all who have said “Yes!”
This weekend I celebrate my 70th birthday. I have never thought of being that “old” or that “young” for age is a position of the mind. I feel young and hope to be able to continue to serve the Holy Cross Family for a lot more years to come. Please pray that God continues to bless me with good health. I should tell you that I have accepted a suite of rooms at St Norbert Abbey so that I can continually connect to my religious community and have a place to “get away to.” So I am moving a number of my “things” to the Abbey. My phone number at the Abbey is 337-4356. Do not be afraid to call me there. Keep in mind that for a Norbertine his community is his family and he must be close and connected to that family.
Oremus pro invicem,
Fr Tom
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Happy Birthday....
Happy 70th Birthday Fr. Tom--Thank you for all you do for our Holy Cross Parish Family!
To leave a Happy Birthday wish for Fr. Tom,
please click on "comments" at the bottom of this post.
A Note of Congratulations....
Congratulations Deacon Jim Heider
on your ordination
by Bishop David Zubik
by Bishop David Zubik
Saturday, May 19th, 2007
at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral
as a permanent
Deacon of the Catholic Church!
To leave your messages of congratulations for
at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral
as a permanent
Deacon of the Catholic Church!
To leave your messages of congratulations for
Deacon Jim, please click on "comments" just below this post.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Holy Cross Community Gears Up For Annual Church Picnic
With great anticipation of The Best Holy Cross Annual Picnic Ever I would like to update you on this year's picnic events:
Our small, yet very ambitious committee is working hard on the "behind the scenes" planning of the games, beer tent, food booths, silent auction & craft raffle, advertising, soliciting, music and raffle. As you can see there are many areas of the picnic and we are still in need of volunteers to help us out with many facets of the planning. Even if you can't join us on the day of the picnic won't you consider helping out for even an hour or two toward this worthy cause for our parish?
LIVE MUSIC
As I have mentioned in the past (and by now you have seen on our raffle tickets and posters) we will have live music this year provided by Hot Shot. They are great and even played at my very own wedding so I can attest to it!
DUNK TANK
With all of your valuable input we are working on getting a dunk tank and already have a list of "key players" that we plan to approach for taking a courageous, leap (or dunk) of faith for our entertainment.
TRADITIONAL KIDS GAMES + INFLATABLE EQUIPMENT = MORE FUN
By popular request we are also working on getting inflatable equipment for the kids to jump around on and work off some of the excitement that they are sure to feel at the picnic this year. Look out, I think the Quidzinski family is gearing up to oversee the game area this year and with just Tara's energy those kids are guaranteed to have loads of fun.
BEER TENT
The very fun and energetic Karl & Stacy Lau are running our beer tent and who can resist stopping by to say hello to them and be assured a laugh. If you can believe it, there are new ideas in the beer tent floating around for this year.
TASTY TREATS
Our own Mary Peterson has graciously come forward to offer her culinary expertise during the transition phase of the Craanen family departing us. Mary has agreed to add some food favorites this year and will phase in new ideas for next year as well. Mmmmmmmm!
SPREAD THE WORD
Cathy Zehms (need I say more) who has partnered up with our parish's Rosie Vanderkelen is doing an unbelievable job advertising for our picnic and never stops thinking of more ways to spread the word. The signs are starting to make their way into yards (please get one if you haven't already) and be sure to be on the lookout for an upcoming billboard in the area. Quite possibly the best way to get the word out for the picnic would be to sell all of your raffle tickets that Mrs. Lardinois put so much work into organizing (isn't is the least that we can do for Mrs. Lardinois after all that she does for our children each day :)
PRIZES
We are VERY busy working on soliciting for prizes for the raffle and also for items to be included in the silent auction/craft raffle. Our parish is so fortunate to have such generous fellowship and neighborly outpouring. Won't you be a part of this generosity and donate an item/s that can be bid on or raffled off??
Okay, if you aren't excited yet about this year's picnic (and who wouldn't be?) stay tuned for more upcoming updates Are you interested in $1000 cash, a Brett Farve signed football or a new recliner from Gerondales? Hint: You may want to stop by the Holy Cross Picnic this year!!
Thanks for your time in reading this update as I feel that it gives a good outline of the areas of the picnic. Again, please consider donating some of your time (in any given area) or if that is just not possible this year make sure to join us on Sunday, June 24th for a fun-filled, family & friends day.
Mike and Tina Reignier
On behalf of the best darn committee ever!!
Our small, yet very ambitious committee is working hard on the "behind the scenes" planning of the games, beer tent, food booths, silent auction & craft raffle, advertising, soliciting, music and raffle. As you can see there are many areas of the picnic and we are still in need of volunteers to help us out with many facets of the planning. Even if you can't join us on the day of the picnic won't you consider helping out for even an hour or two toward this worthy cause for our parish?
LIVE MUSIC
As I have mentioned in the past (and by now you have seen on our raffle tickets and posters) we will have live music this year provided by Hot Shot. They are great and even played at my very own wedding so I can attest to it!
DUNK TANK
With all of your valuable input we are working on getting a dunk tank and already have a list of "key players" that we plan to approach for taking a courageous, leap (or dunk) of faith for our entertainment.
TRADITIONAL KIDS GAMES + INFLATABLE EQUIPMENT = MORE FUN
By popular request we are also working on getting inflatable equipment for the kids to jump around on and work off some of the excitement that they are sure to feel at the picnic this year. Look out, I think the Quidzinski family is gearing up to oversee the game area this year and with just Tara's energy those kids are guaranteed to have loads of fun.
BEER TENT
The very fun and energetic Karl & Stacy Lau are running our beer tent and who can resist stopping by to say hello to them and be assured a laugh. If you can believe it, there are new ideas in the beer tent floating around for this year.
TASTY TREATS
Our own Mary Peterson has graciously come forward to offer her culinary expertise during the transition phase of the Craanen family departing us. Mary has agreed to add some food favorites this year and will phase in new ideas for next year as well. Mmmmmmmm!
SPREAD THE WORD
Cathy Zehms (need I say more) who has partnered up with our parish's Rosie Vanderkelen is doing an unbelievable job advertising for our picnic and never stops thinking of more ways to spread the word. The signs are starting to make their way into yards (please get one if you haven't already) and be sure to be on the lookout for an upcoming billboard in the area. Quite possibly the best way to get the word out for the picnic would be to sell all of your raffle tickets that Mrs. Lardinois put so much work into organizing (isn't is the least that we can do for Mrs. Lardinois after all that she does for our children each day :)
PRIZES
We are VERY busy working on soliciting for prizes for the raffle and also for items to be included in the silent auction/craft raffle. Our parish is so fortunate to have such generous fellowship and neighborly outpouring. Won't you be a part of this generosity and donate an item/s that can be bid on or raffled off??
Okay, if you aren't excited yet about this year's picnic (and who wouldn't be?) stay tuned for more upcoming updates Are you interested in $1000 cash, a Brett Farve signed football or a new recliner from Gerondales? Hint: You may want to stop by the Holy Cross Picnic this year!!
Thanks for your time in reading this update as I feel that it gives a good outline of the areas of the picnic. Again, please consider donating some of your time (in any given area) or if that is just not possible this year make sure to join us on Sunday, June 24th for a fun-filled, family & friends day.
Mike and Tina Reignier
On behalf of the best darn committee ever!!
Saturday, May 12, 2007
From the Pastor's Desk...Happy Mother's Day!
A Blessing for our Mothers
Father, we give you thanks for the many gifts you have given us:
The gift of life, the gift of those who love us.
We thank you today for the gift of our Mothers and Grandmothers.
We give you thanks for our Mothers and Grandmothers who have died
And for the unique way they have revealed for us your love.
We ask that Bless them and keep them in your care
Until the time comes for us to join them in your kingdom.
We ask your Blessing upon the Mothers and Grandmothers
Who are unable to be with us here today.
May they know how much we love and care for them.
We pray for birth Mothers who have loved their children so much
They have shared the gift of their child with those who could
Better care for them and their needs and give them a secure home.
And we pray for adoptive Mothers, that they may always know
Their special role of being a true Mother,
A revelation of God’s love for their children.
We ask your blessing upon Mothers who have lost children
Through stillbirth, crib death, accident and tragedy,
That they may have your continuing strength and courage.
We ask your blessing too, upon those who would very much
Like to be Mothers, but who are having trouble having a child.
We ask your Blessing upon the Mothers and Grandmothers
Before us here in our church – Give them the strength to
Live the faithful and loving lives you call them to live.
Protect and guide them. Keep them in your care.
We ask this Blessing –
“In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the
+ Holy Spirit. Amen.”
Please be reminded of the “Advancing the Mission” meeting, this Thursday, in the gym.
5:30 pm = Prayer Leaders
6:30 pm Print Communications leaders, Children and Youth Activities leaders
7:00 pm = All volunteers.
Thank you for your willingness to give of your time and talent to this important campaign.
Oremus Pro Invicem,
Fr Tom
Father, we give you thanks for the many gifts you have given us:
The gift of life, the gift of those who love us.
We thank you today for the gift of our Mothers and Grandmothers.
We give you thanks for our Mothers and Grandmothers who have died
And for the unique way they have revealed for us your love.
We ask that Bless them and keep them in your care
Until the time comes for us to join them in your kingdom.
We ask your Blessing upon the Mothers and Grandmothers
Who are unable to be with us here today.
May they know how much we love and care for them.
We pray for birth Mothers who have loved their children so much
They have shared the gift of their child with those who could
Better care for them and their needs and give them a secure home.
And we pray for adoptive Mothers, that they may always know
Their special role of being a true Mother,
A revelation of God’s love for their children.
We ask your blessing upon Mothers who have lost children
Through stillbirth, crib death, accident and tragedy,
That they may have your continuing strength and courage.
We ask your blessing too, upon those who would very much
Like to be Mothers, but who are having trouble having a child.
We ask your Blessing upon the Mothers and Grandmothers
Before us here in our church – Give them the strength to
Live the faithful and loving lives you call them to live.
Protect and guide them. Keep them in your care.
We ask this Blessing –
“In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the
+ Holy Spirit. Amen.”
Please be reminded of the “Advancing the Mission” meeting, this Thursday, in the gym.
5:30 pm = Prayer Leaders
6:30 pm Print Communications leaders, Children and Youth Activities leaders
7:00 pm = All volunteers.
Thank you for your willingness to give of your time and talent to this important campaign.
Oremus Pro Invicem,
Fr Tom
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Some thoughts on the Holy Cross School Nutrition Program from Mrs. Toni Zahn and Mrs. Mary Verhaag (a.k.a. The Lunch Ladies)
Mary and I have been working together as a team for 13 years. We are proud of the program that we have built. Our latest achievement is the Morning Nutrition Program, which began 3 years ago. We now have 40% of the students participating in morning nutrition, and over 90% in the school Hot Lunch Program.We tantalize their sense of taste and smell with out freshly prepared foods. We are proud to provide a salad bar with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, and a bread basket of whole grain breads. We have worked hard to provide all this at a price families can afford. Hot lunch is $2.00/meal and morning nutrition is $1.00/meal.
The best part of our day is to see the students’ smiling faces, and to have the feeling of confidence that we are providing a nourishing meal that they enjoy!
Monday, May 7, 2007
From the Pastor's Desk...
My Dear Parishioners—Last weekend our children made their First Holy Communion. Many who attended any of the Masses have told me that it was one of nicest "First Holy Communions" they have ever attended. A big THANK YOU must be given to our Religious Education Director, Mrs. Tina Meyer, who planned the liturgy along with Annette Barrett, Catechists Jim Heider, John and Leann Majeski, and Principal Robin Jensen. Thank you to our music ministers, lectors, servers and all who worked to make the weekend the wonderful and sacred event it was for our children and their families.
Holy Cross Parish has a great reason to rejoice because on Sunday, May 19th, our parishioner Mr. James P. Heider, will be ordained a Deacon by Bishop Zubik at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in Green Bay, at 10 AM. Deacon Jim has been assigned to Holy Cross Parish as he begins his ministry as a permanent Deacon of the Catholic Church. Jim will enter the "clerical" state and by virtue of his ordination will be able to administer the Sacraments of Baptism and Marriage, will proclaim the Gospel and preach, will carry out the outreach of our parish community to the needy and poor and can also preside at funerals and parish wake services. Deacon Jim will function at the Masses in our parish on the weekend of May 19th and 20th. We welcome him to our Pastoral Team. Congratulations to Jim, his wife Linda and his family, and know that we are very proud of you. "Ad Multos Annos."
A special "Thank You" to Heather Zeise, and all the many parish and school people, who worked with her in producing the School Auction.
It was a tremendous success and a good time was had by all. Thank you again and again!
It was a tremendous success and a good time was had by all. Thank you again and again!
Plans are underway for our Annual Parish Picnic. Tina and Mike Reigner are the chairpersons for this major parish event and it needs all our help and support. Please be willing to chip in and help and at the same time to have a great time and experience a great sense of Holy Cross Parish Family and Community.
As "Advancing the Mission" draws near please consider helping in any way that you can. The Campaign will take place during the months of June, July and August, a time that is usually much slower than the other months. I really need your help to make this a successful campaign.
Oremus pro invicem, Father Tom
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