Scrip coordinator Jan Kratz reports that Griftens is up for sale. Holy Cross Scrip has a large inventory of gift cards that the new owners will not be obligated to honor. If you are going to eat at Griftens, please consider helping us out by using up our Scrip inventory! Scrip is available in the back of church after Mass on the weekends. You can also purchase Scrip weekdays in the school office.
What is Scrip?
When your organization members purchase scrip, they're purchasing negotiable gift certificates that are used just like cash. The scrip is issued by the national and local retailers where many of your organization families already shop. These merchants want to support non-profit organizations, and in return ask you to support them by shopping with scrip at their stores. Your organization members can use scrip to purchase everyday expenses like food, clothing, and other essentials, and with every purchase, they earn revenue for your organization. (Excerpted from the Great Lakes Scrip website).
Questions may be directed to scrip@holycrossfamily.org.
Related links:
Scrip Order Form
Complete List of National Scrip Retailers
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
What's Happening in Faith Formation?
Faith Formation Schedule
WEDNESDAY, April 2
Grades 2 - 6: 5:30 - 6:30pm
Grades 7 - 10: 6:45 - 8:00pm
SUNDAY, April 6
"I Am Special" Pre-School & Gr. 1: 10:00 - 11:00am (during Mass)
About Holy Cross Faith Formation
All children in the Holy Cross Parish Family have the right and opportunity to be educated in their faith. Children and young adults often have questions about God. The Holy Cross Parish Faith Formation program works with parents to answer these questions and to bring our young people into a closer relationship with God; a relationship which motivates them to make good moral decisions in order to live Christ-like lives.
To see Faith Formation photos, click on the photo albums underneath Faith Formation Contact Information on the right hand side of the blog. To read all Faith Formation blog posts, click here.
WEDNESDAY, April 2
Grades 2 - 6: 5:30 - 6:30pm
Grades 7 - 10: 6:45 - 8:00pm
SUNDAY, April 6
"I Am Special" Pre-School & Gr. 1: 10:00 - 11:00am (during Mass)
About Holy Cross Faith Formation
All children in the Holy Cross Parish Family have the right and opportunity to be educated in their faith. Children and young adults often have questions about God. The Holy Cross Parish Faith Formation program works with parents to answer these questions and to bring our young people into a closer relationship with God; a relationship which motivates them to make good moral decisions in order to live Christ-like lives.
To see Faith Formation photos, click on the photo albums underneath Faith Formation Contact Information on the right hand side of the blog. To read all Faith Formation blog posts, click here.
Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship Corner
I shared my TIME and TALENT by:
- I served Mass at 4:00.
- Taking the hunter safety course to be a responsible hunter in Fall.
- I helped deliver my Girl Scout cookies.
- I helped take care of Grandma Rita's cat.
- I fed the baby, said prayers for others and helped with dishes.
- I helped with Easter baskets.
Total TREASURE shared: $25.00
Our Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship program is a tool available for us to help teach the basics of stewardship to our youth. Stewardship is a decision we make to live as Christians and to thank God for all of His blessings by helping to take care of the church and the world on behalf of God. Stewardship is often touched upon throughout the Bible and in our faith formation process; the Youth Stewardship Program helps bring all of these teachings together.
For more information about Holy Cross Faith Formation, please check out the links located on the right hand side of the blog.
- I served Mass at 4:00.
- Taking the hunter safety course to be a responsible hunter in Fall.
- I helped deliver my Girl Scout cookies.
- I helped take care of Grandma Rita's cat.
- I fed the baby, said prayers for others and helped with dishes.
- I helped with Easter baskets.
Total TREASURE shared: $25.00
Our Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship program is a tool available for us to help teach the basics of stewardship to our youth. Stewardship is a decision we make to live as Christians and to thank God for all of His blessings by helping to take care of the church and the world on behalf of God. Stewardship is often touched upon throughout the Bible and in our faith formation process; the Youth Stewardship Program helps bring all of these teachings together.
For more information about Holy Cross Faith Formation, please check out the links located on the right hand side of the blog.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
March 28/29 From the Pastor's Desk...
My Dear Parishioners,
A very special word of thank you and appreciation to all who worked so very hard to make our Liturgies of Holy Week and Easter the special celebrations that they were. A special thank you to our music ministers who practiced so very much and who made the liturgies so very beautiful and special. An additional thank you to the lectors, Eucharistic ministers, altar servers, worship committee for the gift of your time and talent.
Our church was tastefully and beautifully prepared for all the services and I do thank Jeff and Jan Walton and all their helpers for once again taking on this task and accomplishing so very much. I do hope that you have noted that our seven branch candelabra has been refinished and is absolutely beautiful. This refinishing was sponsored by the Herman family in memory of “Bernard Herman.” They have also sponsored our “Easter Candle” in memory of Bernard. Thank you very much.
We now begin our new Liturgical Season – “Easter to Pentecost.” It is during this time that we are called to weave into the stuff of our daily life the message and meaning of Christ’s Passion, Death and Resurrection. Hopefully the CARE that we practiced during Lent will have taken deep root and its fruits may be visible in our everyday life.
Kindly remember two Norbertines who have entered Eternal life during the Easter holidays – Father Lambert Baeten O.Praem, a member of St. Norbert Abbey and one of our missionaries to Peru. He died at his mission station in the jungle and has been buried with the people he dearly loved. May he rest in peace. Also remember The Norbertines of Daylesford Abbey, Paoli, Pa who mourn the passing of Abbot “emeritus” John Neitzel, O.Praem. Abbot Nietzel went to his eternal reward on Easter Sunday morning. May he rest in peace.
Please also remember Shirley Corsten and Margaret Van Egeren who died and were buried from our church last week. Please hold their families in prayer as they mourn the loss of loved ones.
“Oremus pro invicem”
Fr Tom
A very special word of thank you and appreciation to all who worked so very hard to make our Liturgies of Holy Week and Easter the special celebrations that they were. A special thank you to our music ministers who practiced so very much and who made the liturgies so very beautiful and special. An additional thank you to the lectors, Eucharistic ministers, altar servers, worship committee for the gift of your time and talent.
Our church was tastefully and beautifully prepared for all the services and I do thank Jeff and Jan Walton and all their helpers for once again taking on this task and accomplishing so very much. I do hope that you have noted that our seven branch candelabra has been refinished and is absolutely beautiful. This refinishing was sponsored by the Herman family in memory of “Bernard Herman.” They have also sponsored our “Easter Candle” in memory of Bernard. Thank you very much.
We now begin our new Liturgical Season – “Easter to Pentecost.” It is during this time that we are called to weave into the stuff of our daily life the message and meaning of Christ’s Passion, Death and Resurrection. Hopefully the CARE that we practiced during Lent will have taken deep root and its fruits may be visible in our everyday life.
Kindly remember two Norbertines who have entered Eternal life during the Easter holidays – Father Lambert Baeten O.Praem, a member of St. Norbert Abbey and one of our missionaries to Peru. He died at his mission station in the jungle and has been buried with the people he dearly loved. May he rest in peace. Also remember The Norbertines of Daylesford Abbey, Paoli, Pa who mourn the passing of Abbot “emeritus” John Neitzel, O.Praem. Abbot Nietzel went to his eternal reward on Easter Sunday morning. May he rest in peace.
Please also remember Shirley Corsten and Margaret Van Egeren who died and were buried from our church last week. Please hold their families in prayer as they mourn the loss of loved ones.
“Oremus pro invicem”
Fr Tom
Friday, March 28, 2008
Meet the Teacher: Miss Annette Barrett, First Grade
Educational Background: Graduated from Silver Lake College in Manitowoc, WI. Majored in Elementary Education and Religious Studies.Teaching Experience: Taught for 8 years prior to coming to Holy Cross as a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity in Arizona, California, Nebraska, and Chicago.
Professional: Miss Barrett has a Wisconsin teaching license in grades K-8, as well as Advanced Religion Certification. She is a Certified Supportive Consultant and has over 20 post-graduate credits in Education, Religious Studies, Computer and Reading.
At Holy Cross Catholic School since: 1995
Miss Barrett commented on her classes: “I have taught numerous grades and have had a great experience in each grade. Every grade is so different and has its own unique curriculum and social strengths. Currently, I have 1st grade and I have to say that it is my favorite grade to teach.
“1st grade is a year of a lot of visible growth in mind and body. It is so wonderful to see the accomplishments of new thinking processes emerging, learning to read, how to treat others with kindness and caring, and learning about the wonderful creations that God has made. You can always see the light go in the child’s eyes when some skill has “clicked” in their brain. That is an AWESOME experience!”
What she likes about Holy Cross Catholic School: “The faculty and staff show so much faith in God and each other. It is truly inspiring for me to be a part of such an environment. I believe much of this is due to our wonderful leader, Robin Jensen. She is woman of God who leads with love, compassion and fairness. She challenges us to be not only better educators, but better people.
”The families are so willing to help in whatever way is needed. After 13 years this continues to amaze me how the people of Holy Cross come through every time. It feels like being part of a family here at HC. Children and adults are supportive, loving, and encouraging.”
Free time: Miss Barrett enjoys reading, doing yard and garden work and doing crafts. Having been born in Green Bay and growing up on the west side, five blocks from Lambeau Field, she is a die-hard Packers’ fan. In the last 13 years she has been parking cars for Packers’ games at her brother’s lot less than 100 yards from Lambeau Field.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Norbertine Proclamation
Read with conviction by Jae Hansen at Easter Mass, March 23, 2008.
Composed by the Rev. Stephen Rossey, O.Praem, of St Norbert Abbey.
IN THIS THE 8th YEAR
OF THE NEW MILLENNIUM,
And the seemingly unsolvable war in Iraq,
The plight of honorable women and men
Who protect our nation,
The pitched battles between
The liberal and conservative politicians,
The pollution of our planet Earth,
The domestic issues concerning immigration,
The death penalty,
And the rights and dignity of all human beings,
We know it is you,
LORD GOD,
Who turn our minds and hearts
To thoughts of hope, reconciliation, forgiveness,
And thanksgiving for your many blessings.
In the third year of the reign of
And the publishing of his 2nd encyclical, SPE SALVI,
Stressing God as our hope for the future,
And his anticipated 1st trip
To the United States as Pope
To speak to the United Nations,
In this the 1st year of
In the Diocese of Green Bay,
In this the 5th year of
As Pastor of Holy Cross
And with the help of the Parish Council,
Significant strides have been made
Of the Parish and School
with a generous outpouring
of hospitality, understanding and care,
In this the final year of the Presidency of
As the 43rd President of the United States,
In this the 17th year of
America's most beloved athlete in any sport,
And his astounding
Football record-breaking career
Played with humility, honesty and integrity,
And his charity work to help the poor
And disabled children,
In this the 2008th year
OF THE LORD'S INCARNATION,
And from the depths of the world's fear
of the unknown
And yet hope in what could be,
With unwavering Faith and Trust
In the Lord,
We still announce, boldly and joyfully,
CHRIST IS RISEN!
HE IS RISEN INDEED!
HCCS Third Graders Ask: How Well Are We Living Up to God's Law of Love?
Submitted by Mrs. Mary Wennesheimer.
Lent is not an unhappy time, but a serious time.
The third grade took this time to think about how well they are living up to God's law of love. We chose daily actions that we all can participate in to be a better follower of Jesus. We used the acronym PSS--Prayer, Sacrifice and Sharing.
During Lent the class prepared for and celebrated the sacrament of Reconciliation. We revisited the Stations of the Cross at church, and then studied the meaning behind them. We were also very fortunate to take a field trip to Eden, Wisconsin to see the Living Way of the Cross dramatized by the third through eighth grade students of Shepherd of the Hills Catholic School. We continued to study our faith during the most Holy Week of the year.
Lent is not an unhappy time, but a serious time.
The third grade took this time to think about how well they are living up to God's law of love. We chose daily actions that we all can participate in to be a better follower of Jesus. We used the acronym PSS--Prayer, Sacrifice and Sharing.
During Lent the class prepared for and celebrated the sacrament of Reconciliation. We revisited the Stations of the Cross at church, and then studied the meaning behind them. We were also very fortunate to take a field trip to Eden, Wisconsin to see the Living Way of the Cross dramatized by the third through eighth grade students of Shepherd of the Hills Catholic School. We continued to study our faith during the most Holy Week of the year.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay at the historic crossroads of Church and Bay Settlement Road, Holy Cross Catholic School is the point at which faith, community and education converge. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community.
Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 140 years and has an enrollment of 166 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. To set up a tour and/or visiting day for your child at Holy Cross Catholic School, please call 920.468.0625. Visit us on the web at www.holycrossfamily.org.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Important Changes in the Holy Cross Scrip Program
The Holy Cross Scrip program is undergoing some changes with regard to procuring the Scrip we sell to you. In the past, we have purchased our Scrip from two suppliers – one on a local level (those retailers who are specific to our area) and one on a national level (those merchants who have retailers nationwide).
Our local supplier, Green Bay Scrip, operating under the direction of Deacon Manny Torres at St. John the Baptist in Howard, charges 1.25% of the total amount of Scrip we order (this is labeled as a shipping and handling expense, but our volunteers are responsible for picking up the Scrip from St. John’s in Howard). To compare, our national supplier, Great Lakes Scrip (check out merchants offered at http://www.glscrip.com/), charges a flat fee of $11.50 for shipping and handling no matter how much or how little we purchase, and it is delivered directly to us. On a $3,000 order, GB Scrip would charge us $37.50; Great Lakes would charge us $11.50.
We have been evaluating costs involved with both suppliers and came to the realization that it is no longer financially responsible for us to purchase certain merchants from Green Bay Scrip. Due to GB Scrip’s increased fees, we are actually losing money on purchases made by school families of those merchants who do not offer deep discounts. (As an example, a customer came to us recently with a $3,000 order for H.J. Martin scrip -- the 2% ($60) discount offered by H.J. Martin would have been paid $37.50 (1.25% of the total amount ordered) to GB Scrip and $35.40 (59% of the total discount) to the school family – leaving Holy Cross Scrip with a deficit of $12.90. It is simply not reasonable for us to allow these orders to be processed.) From a business standpoint we are forced to look elsewhere for the same service at a lower cost. We are currently working on securing scrip from a number of local retailers (Copps, Festival, PDQ University Supervalu) independently.
To be clear, according to the Diocese, St. John the Baptist pays an employee a minimal amount to run the GB Scrip program. Whatever money GB Scrip makes above and beyond that employee’s salary is paid to St. John the Baptist. It seems unreasonable to us that St. John the Baptist is making more money than Holy Cross itself on the work done by Holy Cross volunteers.
What does this mean to our Scrip customer? It means that we will do our best to keep an adequate supply of those local retailers purchased on a regular basis in our inventory but from time to time may run short. It also means that you may not be able to purchase Scrip to a few local retailers because we would lose money on such transactions.
Holy Cross Scrip program is run entirely by volunteers – we have no paid employees. If you are willing to help with our program (perhaps picking up scrip from one of the local merchants), please contact either of us. Thank you for your patience as we undergo these changes; we appreciate your support of our program.
As always, if you have any questions with regard to Scrip, please feel free to contact either one of us.
Jean and Jan
Jan Kratz: 468-3517
Scrip Coordinator
Jean Rakers: 468-7550
Director of Sales
We have been evaluating costs involved with both suppliers and came to the realization that it is no longer financially responsible for us to purchase certain merchants from Green Bay Scrip. Due to GB Scrip’s increased fees, we are actually losing money on purchases made by school families of those merchants who do not offer deep discounts. (As an example, a customer came to us recently with a $3,000 order for H.J. Martin scrip -- the 2% ($60) discount offered by H.J. Martin would have been paid $37.50 (1.25% of the total amount ordered) to GB Scrip and $35.40 (59% of the total discount) to the school family – leaving Holy Cross Scrip with a deficit of $12.90. It is simply not reasonable for us to allow these orders to be processed.) From a business standpoint we are forced to look elsewhere for the same service at a lower cost. We are currently working on securing scrip from a number of local retailers (Copps, Festival, PDQ University Supervalu) independently.
To be clear, according to the Diocese, St. John the Baptist pays an employee a minimal amount to run the GB Scrip program. Whatever money GB Scrip makes above and beyond that employee’s salary is paid to St. John the Baptist. It seems unreasonable to us that St. John the Baptist is making more money than Holy Cross itself on the work done by Holy Cross volunteers.
What does this mean to our Scrip customer? It means that we will do our best to keep an adequate supply of those local retailers purchased on a regular basis in our inventory but from time to time may run short. It also means that you may not be able to purchase Scrip to a few local retailers because we would lose money on such transactions.
Holy Cross Scrip program is run entirely by volunteers – we have no paid employees. If you are willing to help with our program (perhaps picking up scrip from one of the local merchants), please contact either of us. Thank you for your patience as we undergo these changes; we appreciate your support of our program.
As always, if you have any questions with regard to Scrip, please feel free to contact either one of us.
Jean and Jan
Jan Kratz: 468-3517
Scrip Coordinator
Jean Rakers: 468-7550
Director of Sales
Related links:
HCCS Students Expand Vocabulary, Develop Spirituality in Spanish Class
Submitted by Mrs. Mary Lardinois.
Developing Vocabulary
Spanish classes at Holy Cross Catholic School have been working hard to expand their vocabulary.
During the month of February, they learned places in our community. In the lower grades the children are making posters of places. The upper grades are putting together maps, and speaking to one other using their new vocabulary.
During the month of March, students learned animal names. In the lower grades we sing a songs about animals, using lots of repetition in the songs. We also read stories in Spanish using familiar animal words.
Can you guess these popular titles?
Los Tres Osos and La Pequena Gallina Roja*
The older students practice by explaining to one another what animals are found on the farm.
Developing Spirituality
Holy Cross Catholic School strives to integrate the Catholic faith into all aspects of the curriculum. In Spanish class we do this by learning to pray. Every Spanish class from kindergarten through eighth grade begins with prayer using the Spanish language.
The younger students bless themselves with the "Sign of the Cross" and are gradually using the prayer words.
During Holy Week, the older students learned the "Glory Be" to add to the "Our Father" and "Hail Mary" that they have already learned.
*(Answers) The Three Bears and The Little Red Hen
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay at the historic crossroads of Church and Bay Settlement Road, Holy Cross Catholic School is the point at which faith, community and education converge. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community.
Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 140 years and has an enrollment of 166 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. To set up a tour and/or visiting day for your child at Holy Cross Catholic School, please call 920.468.0625.
Developing Vocabulary
Spanish classes at Holy Cross Catholic School have been working hard to expand their vocabulary.
During the month of February, they learned places in our community. In the lower grades the children are making posters of places. The upper grades are putting together maps, and speaking to one other using their new vocabulary.
During the month of March, students learned animal names. In the lower grades we sing a songs about animals, using lots of repetition in the songs. We also read stories in Spanish using familiar animal words.
Can you guess these popular titles?
Los Tres Osos and La Pequena Gallina Roja*
The older students practice by explaining to one another what animals are found on the farm.
Developing Spirituality
Holy Cross Catholic School strives to integrate the Catholic faith into all aspects of the curriculum. In Spanish class we do this by learning to pray. Every Spanish class from kindergarten through eighth grade begins with prayer using the Spanish language.
The younger students bless themselves with the "Sign of the Cross" and are gradually using the prayer words.
During Holy Week, the older students learned the "Glory Be" to add to the "Our Father" and "Hail Mary" that they have already learned.
*(Answers) The Three Bears and The Little Red Hen
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay at the historic crossroads of Church and Bay Settlement Road, Holy Cross Catholic School is the point at which faith, community and education converge. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community.
Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 140 years and has an enrollment of 166 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. To set up a tour and/or visiting day for your child at Holy Cross Catholic School, please call 920.468.0625.
Related links:
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Called to Witness: Sr. Carolyn Zahringer
Name: Sr. Carolyn ZahringerWhat grade do you teach? Second grade
How many years have you taught in a Faith Formation Program? 15 years, five of which have been here at Holy Cross.
What grades have you taught? 1,2,5,7, & 9
What do you enjoy about sharing your faith in our Holy Cross Faith Formation Program? Great families to work with! Great teamwork/support.
What do you do in your free time? Web-searches, shop for bargains, read, e-mail, phone friends
Other interests: I enjoy traveling, meeting new people in new places, movies with a message.
With Sympathy on Behalf of the Holy Cross Parish Family
Margaret E. Van Egeren, 92, of Green Bay, died March 22, 2008. She was born on October 5, 1915 to the late Alfred and Isabella (Eberle) Diesner in Milwaukee, WI. Margaret moved from Milwaukee with her family in 1935 to Green Bay where she met her husband Alvin. She married Alvin Van Egeren on May 20, 1939 at Holy Cross Catholic Church. They started out together farming on the shores of Green Bay and continued farming for 40 years in the Bay Settlement area until their retirement in 1978. Margaret was a lifetime member of Holy Cross Parish in Bay Settlement and sang in the choir. She also chauffeured students at Holy Cross School while her children attended school there. Margaret enjoyed crafts, cooking, playing cards, and bingo. Family and friends were her priority in life and she was always there for them. She was a true caregiver. Margaret and Al spent 61 years together sharing and caring for one another.She is survived by two daughters and a son-in-law, Jackie and Mel Thiry and Mary Swenson, both of Green Bay; two sons and daughters-in-law, Bob and Debbie Van Egeren, Townsend; Ted and Jean Van Egeren, Green Bay; nine grandchildren, Terry (Dean) Sprangers, Jeff (Kelly) Thiry, Jodi Thiry, Dennis (Tracey) Thiry, Sarah (Andy) Gorzlancyk, Matt (Tina) Van Egeren, Tom Van Egeren, Jessica Smits and Jason Smits; ten great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson; two sisters, Eleanor Bloomer and Carol (Fred) Kulow; one sister-in-law, Mildred Deno; many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Alvin; step-mother, Lena (Bins) Diesner; son-in-law, Chuck Swenson; three grandchildren, Michael Thiry, Carri Lynn Van Egeren, and Tony Van Egeren; one great-grandson, Jared Thiry; two sisters, her twin Catherine Donne and Marie Star; two brothers-in-law, Floyd Donne and John Star.
Friends may call at Proko-Wall Funeral Home, 1630 E. Mason St. from 4-8pm Tuesday and after 9:30am Wednesday at the church until the time of service. Parish wake service 6:30pm Tuesday at the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial 10:30am Wednesday at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 3009 Bay Settlement Rd. with the Rev. Tom Hagendorf, O.Praem officiating. Entombment in the Shrine of the Good Shepherd Mausoleum. Online condolences may be sent to the Van Egeren family at http://www.prokowall.com/.
The family would like to thank Bornemann Nursing Home, Carrington Manor Assisted Living, and VNA Hospice for the loving care given their mother.
Monday, March 24, 2008
HAND in HAND Holy Cross Catholic School Auction
Saturday, May 3, 2008
5:00 PM at the Riverside Ballroom
Master of Ceremonies/Auctioneer ~ Ned the Dead
SILENT AUCTION ~ LIVE AUCTION
TOSHIBA 42" DIGITAL LCD HD TV RAFFLE
BOOZE WAGON RAFFLE ~ DESSERT RAFFLE ~ MYSTERY BAGS
There is something fun for everyone at the HCCS Auction!
To see the latest donations, click here.
All-you-can-eat family style dinner
Chicken and tenderloin tips
CASH BAR ~ CASUAL ATTIRE
5:00 PM Silent Auction
7:30 PM Dinner/Raffles
8:45 PM Oral Auction
$30 per person; $200 for a table of eight.
Get you tickets today! Send in your reply card or call the school office to reserve your table. 920.468.0625
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Holy Cross Scrip Update
Effective Saturday, March 22, 2008 the CVS/pharmacy benefit will increase from 2% to 6%. This is a 4% contribution increase on the popular $25 gift card, and is effective until further notice.
The CVS/pharmacy card is redeemable at all locations nationwide for merchandise, including prescriptions. CVS/pharmacy is America's largest retail pharmacy with approximately 6,200 retail locations. CVS/pharmacy is committed to serving the healthcare needs of all customers by being the easiest pharmacy for customers to use.
What is Scrip?
When your organization members purchase scrip, they're purchasing negotiable gift certificates that are used just like cash. The scrip is issued by the national and local retailers where many of your organization families already shop. These merchants want to support non-profit organizations, and in return ask you to support them by shopping with scrip at their stores. Your organization members can use scrip to purchase everyday expenses like food, clothing, and other essentials, and with every purchase, they earn revenue for your organization. (Excerpted from the Great Lakes Scrip website).
Scrip is available after Mass on the weekends and in the school office weekdays. Questions may be directed to scrip@holycrossfamily.org.
Related links:
CVS Store Finder
Scrip Order Form
Complete List of Scrip Retailers
What's Happening in Faith Formation?
Faith Formation Schedule
Sunday March 23
No classes today or next week.
Classes will resume on April 6--see you then!
About Holy Cross Faith Formation
All children in the Holy Cross Parish Family have the right and opportunity to be educated in their faith. Children and young adults often have questions about God. The Holy Cross Parish Faith Formation program works with parents to answer these questions and to bring our young people into a closer relationship with God; a relationship which motivates them to make good moral decisions in order to live Christ-like lives.
Sunday March 23
No classes today or next week.
Classes will resume on April 6--see you then!
About Holy Cross Faith Formation
All children in the Holy Cross Parish Family have the right and opportunity to be educated in their faith. Children and young adults often have questions about God. The Holy Cross Parish Faith Formation program works with parents to answer these questions and to bring our young people into a closer relationship with God; a relationship which motivates them to make good moral decisions in order to live Christ-like lives.
To see Faith Formation photos, click on the photo albums underneath Faith Formation Contact Information on the right hand side of the blog. To read all Faith Formation blog posts, click here.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
March 23 From the Pastor's Desk...
My Dear Parishioners,
Alleluia! Alleluia! This is the day that the Lord has made, let us be glad and rejoice in it. He has Risen as He said, Alleluia, alleluia!
Having completed our journey through the season of Lent I do hope that you took time to “CARE” and to have grown in holiness. Our celebration of Easter is a celebration of the central Feast of our Faith. Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has conquered death itself and offers each and every one of us a share in His Resurrection and gives us the promise of eternal life. That is truly worth celebrating and for the next 50 days that is exactly what we shall do.
On behalf of the entire staff of Holy Cross Parish I want to wish all of you a truly Blessed Easter and may the Blessings of this Easter time come upon you and your family. I also wish to thank all those who have made our celebration of this past Holy Week the beautiful and prayerful experience that it was because of your gifts of time and talent. Thank you to all the people in the music ministry, you did an outstanding job and made true once again the words of St. Augustine who said that to sing is to pray twice. Thank you to our lectors, Eucharistic ministers, and servers. A special thank you to our environmental ministers, as usual our church and worship space is most beautiful. Let us also not forget our “over the hill gang” and others who have cleaned and polished our church.
We are truly Blessed and let us always remember to give thanks to God for all that we have.
“Oremus pro invicem”
Fr Tom
Alleluia! Alleluia! This is the day that the Lord has made, let us be glad and rejoice in it. He has Risen as He said, Alleluia, alleluia!
Having completed our journey through the season of Lent I do hope that you took time to “CARE” and to have grown in holiness. Our celebration of Easter is a celebration of the central Feast of our Faith. Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has conquered death itself and offers each and every one of us a share in His Resurrection and gives us the promise of eternal life. That is truly worth celebrating and for the next 50 days that is exactly what we shall do.
On behalf of the entire staff of Holy Cross Parish I want to wish all of you a truly Blessed Easter and may the Blessings of this Easter time come upon you and your family. I also wish to thank all those who have made our celebration of this past Holy Week the beautiful and prayerful experience that it was because of your gifts of time and talent. Thank you to all the people in the music ministry, you did an outstanding job and made true once again the words of St. Augustine who said that to sing is to pray twice. Thank you to our lectors, Eucharistic ministers, and servers. A special thank you to our environmental ministers, as usual our church and worship space is most beautiful. Let us also not forget our “over the hill gang” and others who have cleaned and polished our church.
We are truly Blessed and let us always remember to give thanks to God for all that we have.
“Oremus pro invicem”
Fr Tom
Holy Week at HCCS: Students Experience Traditional Seder Meal
Submitted by Barb Conard.
The gym of Holy Cross was converted into a quiet, respectful atmosphere Holy Thursday as the children of Holy Cross Catholic School experienced a traditional Seder meal.
Under dimmed lights and candelabra, the children participated in a traditional Jewish pre-meal blessing, dined using china and white linens, and sipped celebratory wine (grape juice).
The service was lead by the 8th grade class, who represented the roles of a father and mother in a Jewish family.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay at the historic crossroads of Church and Bay Settlement Road, Holy Cross Catholic School is the point at which faith, community and education converge. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community.
Holy Cross School has been in existence for 140 years and has an enrollment of 166 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. To set up a tour and/or visiting day for your child at Holy Cross Catholic School, please call 920.468.0625.
The gym of Holy Cross was converted into a quiet, respectful atmosphere Holy Thursday as the children of Holy Cross Catholic School experienced a traditional Seder meal.
Under dimmed lights and candelabra, the children participated in a traditional Jewish pre-meal blessing, dined using china and white linens, and sipped celebratory wine (grape juice).
The service was lead by the 8th grade class, who represented the roles of a father and mother in a Jewish family.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay at the historic crossroads of Church and Bay Settlement Road, Holy Cross Catholic School is the point at which faith, community and education converge. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community.
Holy Cross School has been in existence for 140 years and has an enrollment of 166 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. To set up a tour and/or visiting day for your child at Holy Cross Catholic School, please call 920.468.0625.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Have a Blessed Easter Triduum from Holy Cross Catholic School
Stations of the Cross by the Holy Cross Catholic School fifth grade class.
Photos courtesy of Kathy Janquart and John Kelly.
Press the PLAY button to see the fifth graders' reflection on The Way of the Cross. For Easter Triduum Mass times at Holy Cross Parish click here.
Photos courtesy of Kathy Janquart and John Kelly.
Press the PLAY button to see the fifth graders' reflection on The Way of the Cross. For Easter Triduum Mass times at Holy Cross Parish click here.
Mass Times at Holy Cross Parish for the Easter Triduum
Thursday, March 20
Holy Thursday, Mass of the Lord’s Supper
7:00 PM
Friday, March 21
Good Friday, Mass of the Lord’s Passion
1:00 PM
Saturday, March 22
Holy Saturday, Easter Vigil
7:00 PM (No 4:00 PM Mass on Holy Saturday)
Sunday, March 23
Easter Sunday Mass
8:00 AM & 10:00 AM
Holy Thursday, Mass of the Lord’s Supper
7:00 PM
Friday, March 21
Good Friday, Mass of the Lord’s Passion
1:00 PM
Saturday, March 22
Holy Saturday, Easter Vigil
7:00 PM (No 4:00 PM Mass on Holy Saturday)
Sunday, March 23
Easter Sunday Mass
8:00 AM & 10:00 AM
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Weekly Catholic Virtue Reflection: Joy
As we celebrate this holiest of weeks, I share with you one of my favorite reflections:
LENT: Fast From; Feast On, by William Arthur Ward
Fast from judging others; feast on the Christ dwelling in them.
Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of life.
Fast from apparent darkness; feast on the reality of light.
Fast from thoughts of illness; feast on the healing power of God.
Fast from words that pollute; feast on the phrases that purify.
Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude.
Fast from anger; feast on patience.
Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism.
Fast from worry; feast on divine order.
Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation.
Fast from negatives; feast on affirmatives.
Fast from unrelenting pressures; feast on unceasing prayer.
Fast from hostility; feast on non-resistance.
Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness.
Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others.
Fast from personal anxiety; feast on eternal truth.
Fast from discouragements; feast on hope.
Fast from facts that depress; feast on verities that uplift.
Fast from lethargy; feast on enthusiasm.
Fast from thoughts that weaken; feast on promises that inspire.
Fast from shadows of sorrow; feast on the sunlight of serenity.
Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence.
Fast from problems that overwhelm; feast on prayer that under girds.
THE TRIDUUM from The Little Black Book, by Ken Untener:
LENT: Fast From; Feast On, by William Arthur Ward
Fast from judging others; feast on the Christ dwelling in them.
Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of life.
Fast from apparent darkness; feast on the reality of light.
Fast from thoughts of illness; feast on the healing power of God.
Fast from words that pollute; feast on the phrases that purify.
Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude.
Fast from anger; feast on patience.
Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism.
Fast from worry; feast on divine order.
Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation.
Fast from negatives; feast on affirmatives.
Fast from unrelenting pressures; feast on unceasing prayer.
Fast from hostility; feast on non-resistance.
Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness.
Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others.
Fast from personal anxiety; feast on eternal truth.
Fast from discouragements; feast on hope.
Fast from facts that depress; feast on verities that uplift.
Fast from lethargy; feast on enthusiasm.
Fast from thoughts that weaken; feast on promises that inspire.
Fast from shadows of sorrow; feast on the sunlight of serenity.
Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence.
Fast from problems that overwhelm; feast on prayer that under girds.
THE TRIDUUM from The Little Black Book, by Ken Untener:
This week, Holy Week, is the holiest week of our Liturgical year. Lent ends on Holy Thursday evening. The “Triduum” (Latin for three days) begins with the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, and ends with evening prayer on Easter Sunday. These are the three holiest days of the year. We, as Catholic Christians, set these three days apart as special. The Holy Thursday evening Eucharist recalls the Last Supper. The heart of the Good Friday liturgy is the Passion according to John and the public veneration of the cross. Holy Saturday is the Easter Vigil during which we experience the “passing over” of Jesus from the darkness of death to new life.
Please plan to worship at Holy Cross during the Triduum and on Easter Sunday. The Mass of the Lord’s Supper is at 7:00PM Thursday; The Good Friday liturgy is at 1:00PM; The Easter Vigil service is at 7:00PM; Easter Masses are at 8:00AM and 10:00AM.
May God bless you and your family during this holiest of weeks and as we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection on Easter Sunday,
Robin Jo Jensen
Principal
Please plan to worship at Holy Cross during the Triduum and on Easter Sunday. The Mass of the Lord’s Supper is at 7:00PM Thursday; The Good Friday liturgy is at 1:00PM; The Easter Vigil service is at 7:00PM; Easter Masses are at 8:00AM and 10:00AM.
May God bless you and your family during this holiest of weeks and as we celebrate Jesus’ resurrection on Easter Sunday,
Robin Jo Jensen
Principal
Holy Cross School Catholic Virtue Education
Catholic Virtue Education focuses on teaching students and their families about Catholic virtue as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. While all of the virtues, works, gifts and fruits are intricately intertwined into our Catholic Faith, Catholic Virtue Education at Holy Cross Catholic School focuses on certain aspects each month in order to enhance learning for all students, of all abilities, in all grades.Each month a new virtue is developed, and the students are involved in defining, discussing and exhibiting that trait in their daily lives. Principal Robin Jo Jensen includes reflections on the month's virtue in her weekly parent letter to spur discussions at home. At the end of the month parents are encouraged to attend a student-directed, all-school assembly focusing on the lessons taught throughout the month.
The next HCCS Catholic Virtue Assembly will take place on Friday, March 28 at 2 PM in the school gym.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay, Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 139 years and has an enrollment of 161 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community. To read all Holy Cross Catholic School blog posts, click here and scroll down.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Focus on Faith: Faith Formation Family Newsletter
Greetings from Faith Formation!
HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!
I thought I'd begin today's newsletter with an Irish joke, so here goes…
As soon as she had finished parochial school, a bright young girl named Lena shook the dust of Ireland off her shoes and made her way to New York where before long, she became a successful performer in show business. Eventually she returned to her home town for a visit and on a Saturday night went to confession in the church which she had always attended as a child. In the confessional Father Sullivan recognized her and began asking her about her work. She explained that she was an acrobatic dancer, and he wanted to know what that meant. She said she would be happy to show him the kind of thing she did on stage. She stepped out of the confessional and within sight of Father Sullivan, she went into a series of cartwheels, leaping splits, handsprings and back flips. Kneeling near the confessional, waiting their turn, were two middle-aged ladies. They witnessed Lena's acrobatics with wide eyes, and one said to the other: "Will you just look at the penance Father Sullivan is givin' out this night, and me without me bloomers on!"
SHARING HOLY WEEK AS A FAMILY
It’s not easy for children to understand the profound mysteries of faith, but it is possible to lay a spiritual foundation so they will grow in understanding throughout the years. Here are some practical ways to help make Holy Week meaningful for the whole family.
What can you do for Holy Week this year? It’s OK if your list includes coloring eggs, photos with the Easter Bunny, buying jelly beans and chocolates, shopping for new outfits and preparing Easter dinner. There is nothing wrong with secular Easter activities, but it is important to remember that there is also a profound spiritual basis for the holiday celebration.
The following is a list of ways can you make a connection between the secular and the sacred:
�� Celebrate Palm Sunday by making crosses out of palms.
�� Before coloring Easter eggs, let children write messages on the eggs in crayon that celebrate the true meaning of Easter. For example, “Christ is Risen,” “Alleluia,” “Jesus loves us.”
�� Emphasize the importance of service on Holy Thursday by helping someone in need.
�� Bring your children to church on Holy Saturday to help decorate for Easter.
When you help your family experience the spiritual significance of Holy Week, your Easter celebration will be a day of great joy.
WEDNESDAY EVENING CLASSES
We have classes as usual for Grades 2 - 10 this coming Wednesday, March 19. There are no classes the following Wednesday, March 26. Classes will resume on Wednesday, April 2.
SUNDAY MORNING CLASSES
There are no classes scheduled for this coming Sunday, April 23 as it is Easter Sunday. There are no classes scheduled the following Sunday, on April 30. Classes will resume Sunday morning April 6. See you then!
FIRST COMMUNION PHOTOGRAPHS
Are there some 1st Communion families out there who still need to get me their envelopes for photographs? If so, please get them to me by this coming Wednesday, March 19. Thanks much!
LOOKING AHEAD…
FIRST COMMUNION RETREAT:
Saturday, April 26 - 8:30 - 11:00am
This is just for the children. Please come to the gym.
FIRST COMMUNION REHEARSAL:
Saturday, April 26 - 11am - 12 noon
All parents come directly to church for rehearsal
FIRST COMMUNION CELEBRATIONS:
Saturday, April 26 - 4:00pm Mass
Sunday, April 27 - 10:00am Mass
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Mark your calendars! Once again it will be held at St. Louis Parish in Dykesville. The dates are: June 16 - 20, 2008
It is open to children who are 4 years old through Grade 4. There will be a need for our high school students to be helpers. Please watch for further information.
VIRTUS TRAINING:
Parents, please remember that if you wish to volunteer in the Faith Formation Program, chaperone field trips, teach in our faith formation program, participate in extra-curricular activities with your children, and/or coach in our Athletic program, you must be VIRTUS trained and eApps approved. Contact our Local Safe Environment Coordinator, Robin Jensen in the school office if you would like the paperwork to begin this process.
I'd like to close now with an Irish Blessing…
May the roads rise to meet you.
May the wind be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
The rain fall soft upon your fields
And, until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Peace and all good,
Marti
Marti Burkard
Director of Faith Formation
Holy Cross Parish
E-mail: faithform@hotmail.com
(920)468-6554
HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!
I thought I'd begin today's newsletter with an Irish joke, so here goes…
As soon as she had finished parochial school, a bright young girl named Lena shook the dust of Ireland off her shoes and made her way to New York where before long, she became a successful performer in show business. Eventually she returned to her home town for a visit and on a Saturday night went to confession in the church which she had always attended as a child. In the confessional Father Sullivan recognized her and began asking her about her work. She explained that she was an acrobatic dancer, and he wanted to know what that meant. She said she would be happy to show him the kind of thing she did on stage. She stepped out of the confessional and within sight of Father Sullivan, she went into a series of cartwheels, leaping splits, handsprings and back flips. Kneeling near the confessional, waiting their turn, were two middle-aged ladies. They witnessed Lena's acrobatics with wide eyes, and one said to the other: "Will you just look at the penance Father Sullivan is givin' out this night, and me without me bloomers on!"
SHARING HOLY WEEK AS A FAMILY
It’s not easy for children to understand the profound mysteries of faith, but it is possible to lay a spiritual foundation so they will grow in understanding throughout the years. Here are some practical ways to help make Holy Week meaningful for the whole family.
What can you do for Holy Week this year? It’s OK if your list includes coloring eggs, photos with the Easter Bunny, buying jelly beans and chocolates, shopping for new outfits and preparing Easter dinner. There is nothing wrong with secular Easter activities, but it is important to remember that there is also a profound spiritual basis for the holiday celebration.
The following is a list of ways can you make a connection between the secular and the sacred:
�� Celebrate Palm Sunday by making crosses out of palms.
�� Before coloring Easter eggs, let children write messages on the eggs in crayon that celebrate the true meaning of Easter. For example, “Christ is Risen,” “Alleluia,” “Jesus loves us.”
�� Emphasize the importance of service on Holy Thursday by helping someone in need.
�� Bring your children to church on Holy Saturday to help decorate for Easter.
When you help your family experience the spiritual significance of Holy Week, your Easter celebration will be a day of great joy.
WEDNESDAY EVENING CLASSES
We have classes as usual for Grades 2 - 10 this coming Wednesday, March 19. There are no classes the following Wednesday, March 26. Classes will resume on Wednesday, April 2.
SUNDAY MORNING CLASSES
There are no classes scheduled for this coming Sunday, April 23 as it is Easter Sunday. There are no classes scheduled the following Sunday, on April 30. Classes will resume Sunday morning April 6. See you then!
FIRST COMMUNION PHOTOGRAPHS
Are there some 1st Communion families out there who still need to get me their envelopes for photographs? If so, please get them to me by this coming Wednesday, March 19. Thanks much!
LOOKING AHEAD…
FIRST COMMUNION RETREAT:
Saturday, April 26 - 8:30 - 11:00am
This is just for the children. Please come to the gym.
FIRST COMMUNION REHEARSAL:
Saturday, April 26 - 11am - 12 noon
All parents come directly to church for rehearsal
FIRST COMMUNION CELEBRATIONS:
Saturday, April 26 - 4:00pm Mass
Sunday, April 27 - 10:00am Mass
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Mark your calendars! Once again it will be held at St. Louis Parish in Dykesville. The dates are: June 16 - 20, 2008
It is open to children who are 4 years old through Grade 4. There will be a need for our high school students to be helpers. Please watch for further information.
VIRTUS TRAINING:
Parents, please remember that if you wish to volunteer in the Faith Formation Program, chaperone field trips, teach in our faith formation program, participate in extra-curricular activities with your children, and/or coach in our Athletic program, you must be VIRTUS trained and eApps approved. Contact our Local Safe Environment Coordinator, Robin Jensen in the school office if you would like the paperwork to begin this process.
I'd like to close now with an Irish Blessing…
May the roads rise to meet you.
May the wind be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face;
The rain fall soft upon your fields
And, until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
Peace and all good,
Marti
Marti Burkard
Director of Faith Formation
Holy Cross Parish
E-mail: faithform@hotmail.com
(920)468-6554
Have a spare hour? We could use your help!
We are in desperate need of assistance in cleaning our beautiful church!If you have one hour to help out on Thursday, March 20th, it would be greatly appreciated. We will meet at church at 8:30a.m. Please bring a pail and a few rags, as well as gloves for your hands. This is only a one hour commitment!
Monday, March 17, 2008
The Stations of the Cross
By the HCCS fifth grade class.
Photos courtesy of John Kelly and Kathy Janquart.
Press the PLAY button to view the photo montage.
Photos courtesy of John Kelly and Kathy Janquart.
Press the PLAY button to view the photo montage.
HCCS Second Graders Host Catholic Virtue Assembly on FAITHFULNESS
Submitted by Sr. Carolyn Zahringer.
The February Virtue Assembly on FAITHFULNESS was prepared by the second grade. We found scripture stories that exhibited the virtue of faithfulness. We also saw faithfulness in the Lion King movie that we enjoyed as a class.
At the Catholic Virtue Assembly we presented a caption from the Lion King that spoke of faithfulness through the life of Simba, who chose to take his place as the rightful KING. Each grade was asked to share a story that exhibited faithfulness in some way.
Holy Cross School Catholic Virtue Education
Catholic Virtue Education focuses on teaching students and their families about Catholic virtue as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. While all of the virtues, works, gifts and fruits are intricately intertwined into our Catholic Faith, Catholic Virtue Education at Holy Cross Catholic School focuses on certain aspects each month in order to enhance learning for all students, of all abilities, in all grades.
Each month a new virtue is developed, and the students are involved in defining, discussing and exhibiting that trait in their daily lives. Principal Robin Jo Jensen includes reflections on the month's virtue in her weekly parent letter to spur discussions at home. At the end of the month parents are encouraged to attend a student-directed, all-school assembly focusing on the lessons taught throughout the month.
The next HCCS Catholic Virtue Assembly will take place on Friday, March 28 at 2 PM in the school gym.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay, Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 139 years and has an enrollment of 161 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community. To read all Holy Cross Catholic School blog posts, click here and scroll down.
Related Link:
The Real-life Adventures of Sr. Carolyn's Second Grade Class
The February Virtue Assembly on FAITHFULNESS was prepared by the second grade. We found scripture stories that exhibited the virtue of faithfulness. We also saw faithfulness in the Lion King movie that we enjoyed as a class.
At the Catholic Virtue Assembly we presented a caption from the Lion King that spoke of faithfulness through the life of Simba, who chose to take his place as the rightful KING. Each grade was asked to share a story that exhibited faithfulness in some way.
Holy Cross School Catholic Virtue Education
Catholic Virtue Education focuses on teaching students and their families about Catholic virtue as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. While all of the virtues, works, gifts and fruits are intricately intertwined into our Catholic Faith, Catholic Virtue Education at Holy Cross Catholic School focuses on certain aspects each month in order to enhance learning for all students, of all abilities, in all grades.
Each month a new virtue is developed, and the students are involved in defining, discussing and exhibiting that trait in their daily lives. Principal Robin Jo Jensen includes reflections on the month's virtue in her weekly parent letter to spur discussions at home. At the end of the month parents are encouraged to attend a student-directed, all-school assembly focusing on the lessons taught throughout the month.
The next HCCS Catholic Virtue Assembly will take place on Friday, March 28 at 2 PM in the school gym.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay, Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 139 years and has an enrollment of 161 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community. To read all Holy Cross Catholic School blog posts, click here and scroll down.
Related Link:
The Real-life Adventures of Sr. Carolyn's Second Grade Class
Sunday, March 16, 2008
National Interest mounting in ‘Welcome Words’ Papal Essay Contest
GREEN BAY, Wis. (March 14, 2008) – A nationwide essay contest organized by the Education Department of the Diocese of Green Bay to welcome Pope Benedict XVI to the U.S. has already attracted participation from more than 80 high schools in 30 states.
Reflecting on this success, Mark Salisbury, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Schools, says “The Words of Welcome contest is drawing attention because it is motivated by the simple question of how everyone welcomes a visitor to their home. Our answer is by preparing, and that is what this essay competition aims to do -- to prepare our high school students to greet our guest, Pope Benedict.”
During his U.S. visit from April 15 to 20, Pope Benedict will meet national and international dignitaries in Washington, D.C., and New York City. He will address and pray with young Catholics at a special gathering on April 19 at St. Joseph Seminary in Yonkers.
Contestants are asked to write a 500-750 word essay reflecting on some suggested writings of Pope Benedict and then write a one paragraph welcome to the Holy Father. Salisbury continues, “The sole purpose of this contest is to help high school students deepen their understanding of this historic event by reflecting in advance of April on the international message of Pope Benedict XVI.” Prizes include $3,000 in cash to the national winner and $1,000 in cash to each of five regional winners.
The concept for the essay project was sent to the national office of the Knights of Columbus where it received encouragement and financial support to take the essay to a nationwide audience. A small mail and e-mail campaign has generated all the interest so far.
The essay deadline is March 20. For more information or for contest rules, visit http://www.wordsofwelcome.org/ or call 920-272-8278 or e-mail WordsofWelcome@gbdioc.org.
Reflecting on this success, Mark Salisbury, Diocesan Superintendent of Catholic Schools, says “The Words of Welcome contest is drawing attention because it is motivated by the simple question of how everyone welcomes a visitor to their home. Our answer is by preparing, and that is what this essay competition aims to do -- to prepare our high school students to greet our guest, Pope Benedict.”
During his U.S. visit from April 15 to 20, Pope Benedict will meet national and international dignitaries in Washington, D.C., and New York City. He will address and pray with young Catholics at a special gathering on April 19 at St. Joseph Seminary in Yonkers.
Contestants are asked to write a 500-750 word essay reflecting on some suggested writings of Pope Benedict and then write a one paragraph welcome to the Holy Father. Salisbury continues, “The sole purpose of this contest is to help high school students deepen their understanding of this historic event by reflecting in advance of April on the international message of Pope Benedict XVI.” Prizes include $3,000 in cash to the national winner and $1,000 in cash to each of five regional winners.
The concept for the essay project was sent to the national office of the Knights of Columbus where it received encouragement and financial support to take the essay to a nationwide audience. A small mail and e-mail campaign has generated all the interest so far.
The essay deadline is March 20. For more information or for contest rules, visit http://www.wordsofwelcome.org/ or call 920-272-8278 or e-mail WordsofWelcome@gbdioc.org.
What's Happening in the Faith Formation Program?
Faith Formation Schedule
WEDNESDAY, March 19
Grades 2 - 6: 5:30 - 6:30pm
Grades 7 - 10: 6:45 - 8:00pm
SUNDAY, March 23
No classes today or next week.
Classes will resume on April 6, see you then!
To see Faith Formation photos, click on the photo albums underneath Faith Formation Contact Information on the right hand side of the blog. To read all Faith Formation blog posts, click here.
WEDNESDAY, March 19
Grades 2 - 6: 5:30 - 6:30pm
Grades 7 - 10: 6:45 - 8:00pm
SUNDAY, March 23
No classes today or next week.
Classes will resume on April 6, see you then!
About Holy Cross Faith Formation
All children in the Holy Cross Parish Family have the right and opportunity to be educated in their faith. Children and young adults often have questions about God. The Holy Cross Parish Faith Formation program works with parents to answer these questions and to bring our young people into a closer relationship with God; a relationship which motivates them to make good moral decisions in order to live Christ-like lives.
All children in the Holy Cross Parish Family have the right and opportunity to be educated in their faith. Children and young adults often have questions about God. The Holy Cross Parish Faith Formation program works with parents to answer these questions and to bring our young people into a closer relationship with God; a relationship which motivates them to make good moral decisions in order to live Christ-like lives.
To see Faith Formation photos, click on the photo albums underneath Faith Formation Contact Information on the right hand side of the blog. To read all Faith Formation blog posts, click here.
Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship Corner
I shared my TIME and TALENT by:
- I donated my allowance to the CP telethon
- helped make a meal for the New Community Shelter
- I cleaned, dusted and did the dishes
- I helped a friend with her social studies homework
Total TREASURE shared: $10.00
Our Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship program is a tool available for us to help teach the basics of stewardship to our youth. Stewardship is a decision we make to live as Christians and to thank God for all of His blessings by helping to take care of the church and the world on behalf of God. Stewardship is often touched upon throughout the Bible and in our faith formation process; the Youth Stewardship Program helps bring all of these teachings together.
For more information about Holy Cross Faith Formation, please check out the links located on the right hand side of the blog.
- I donated my allowance to the CP telethon
- helped make a meal for the New Community Shelter
- I cleaned, dusted and did the dishes
- I helped a friend with her social studies homework
Total TREASURE shared: $10.00
Our Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship program is a tool available for us to help teach the basics of stewardship to our youth. Stewardship is a decision we make to live as Christians and to thank God for all of His blessings by helping to take care of the church and the world on behalf of God. Stewardship is often touched upon throughout the Bible and in our faith formation process; the Youth Stewardship Program helps bring all of these teachings together.
For more information about Holy Cross Faith Formation, please check out the links located on the right hand side of the blog.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
March 15/16 From the Pastor's Desk...
My Dear Parishioners,
Today we begin the final portion of our journey through Lent with our celebration of Palm Sunday. This is a day for celebrating Jesus’ triumphal entry into His city of Jerusalem. It is also, however, about His Passion, His suffering and death for the salvation of our world. It is interesting that our Gospel/Passion Narrative is not so much about His triumphal entry into Jerusalem as it is about His betrayal by his close friend Judas, Peter’s denial and the grim reality of death by crucifixion.
In looking at the Gospel one of the first thoughts that came to my mind is the term “bad choice.” First of all Judas made a bad choice. Any of us ever made a bad choice? Judas paid for his choice, just as you and I pay for our choices. In Judas’ case, is there any doubt that Jesus would have forgiven him? He could have made amends but he compounded his bad choice by making another, by taking his own life. It did not have to end up this way.
Peter also made not one but three bad choices in denying Christ, but the difference between him and Judas, is that he repented and was forgiven by Christ after His resurrection….remember the three times Christ asked Peter, “DO you love me?”
Holy week and Easter is all about “bad choices” but also about “Forgiveness, Redemption and Resurrection.” So many people carry around the baggage of guilt and regret, and then make the additional bad choices that only increase their feelings of unworthiness and sinfulness. It doesn’t have to be that way. At Easter time we are reminded that Christ (as depicted by our Sacred Heart statue) reaches out to us with the nail-pierced hands of love and forgiveness.
This is the holiest week of our Liturgical year during which we celebrate the central mysteries of our faith. Please make an attempt “this Holy Week” to come and celebrate these mysteries with your parish family. Holy Thursday night we celebrate the institution of the Holy Eucharist, the priesthood. We recall Christ’s command to love and serve one another. Good Friday enables us to recall His suffering, His Passion and His death for us and our world. Holy Saturday and Easter celebrate His and our Resurrection and New Life. Your time will be well spent, your time can be healing, your time at Holy week will be life giving.
Please note that the collection taken at the Good Friday service supports the shrines of the Holy Land. Please give generously.
“Oremus pro invicem,”
Fr Tom
Today we begin the final portion of our journey through Lent with our celebration of Palm Sunday. This is a day for celebrating Jesus’ triumphal entry into His city of Jerusalem. It is also, however, about His Passion, His suffering and death for the salvation of our world. It is interesting that our Gospel/Passion Narrative is not so much about His triumphal entry into Jerusalem as it is about His betrayal by his close friend Judas, Peter’s denial and the grim reality of death by crucifixion.
In looking at the Gospel one of the first thoughts that came to my mind is the term “bad choice.” First of all Judas made a bad choice. Any of us ever made a bad choice? Judas paid for his choice, just as you and I pay for our choices. In Judas’ case, is there any doubt that Jesus would have forgiven him? He could have made amends but he compounded his bad choice by making another, by taking his own life. It did not have to end up this way.
Peter also made not one but three bad choices in denying Christ, but the difference between him and Judas, is that he repented and was forgiven by Christ after His resurrection….remember the three times Christ asked Peter, “DO you love me?”
Holy week and Easter is all about “bad choices” but also about “Forgiveness, Redemption and Resurrection.” So many people carry around the baggage of guilt and regret, and then make the additional bad choices that only increase their feelings of unworthiness and sinfulness. It doesn’t have to be that way. At Easter time we are reminded that Christ (as depicted by our Sacred Heart statue) reaches out to us with the nail-pierced hands of love and forgiveness.
This is the holiest week of our Liturgical year during which we celebrate the central mysteries of our faith. Please make an attempt “this Holy Week” to come and celebrate these mysteries with your parish family. Holy Thursday night we celebrate the institution of the Holy Eucharist, the priesthood. We recall Christ’s command to love and serve one another. Good Friday enables us to recall His suffering, His Passion and His death for us and our world. Holy Saturday and Easter celebrate His and our Resurrection and New Life. Your time will be well spent, your time can be healing, your time at Holy week will be life giving.
Please note that the collection taken at the Good Friday service supports the shrines of the Holy Land. Please give generously.
“Oremus pro invicem,”
Fr Tom
Please lend us a hand!
Help needed after the Good Friday Service
A few strong willing folks are needed to put the Cross back on the wall after Church. The Cross will be taken down for veneration on Good Friday. Please stay after the 1:00 PM service to help in this most needed Holy Week task.
Holy Cross Parish Picnic Volunteers
The first parish picnic planning meeting will be in Wednesday, March 26, at 6:30 PM in the school library. All are welcome to attend. Contact Mike or Tina Reignier with questions at mreignier@sbcglobal.net.
A few strong willing folks are needed to put the Cross back on the wall after Church. The Cross will be taken down for veneration on Good Friday. Please stay after the 1:00 PM service to help in this most needed Holy Week task.
Holy Cross Parish Picnic Volunteers
The first parish picnic planning meeting will be in Wednesday, March 26, at 6:30 PM in the school library. All are welcome to attend. Contact Mike or Tina Reignier with questions at mreignier@sbcglobal.net.
Friday, March 14, 2008
HCCS Students Attend 'Living Way of the Cross'
Submitted by Mrs. Patty Nennig
This week students in grades 3-5 from Holy Cross Catholic School traveled to Shepherd of the Hills Catholic School in Eden, Wisconsin to see the Living Way of the Cross.
The Living Way of the Cross is a dramatic presentation of the Stations of the Cross by the third through eighth grade students at Shepherd of the Hills. This is the second year HCCS students have attended the event.
One parent commented: It was "a very quiet, prayerful, and wonderful experience. The cast was very young and were amazing!"
"It was a beautiful and spiritual experience and our students were deeply touched by the greatest story ever told," said a HCCS staff member.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay, Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 140 years and has an enrollment of 165 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community. To read all Holy Cross Catholic School blog posts, click here and scroll down.
This week students in grades 3-5 from Holy Cross Catholic School traveled to Shepherd of the Hills Catholic School in Eden, Wisconsin to see the Living Way of the Cross.
The Living Way of the Cross is a dramatic presentation of the Stations of the Cross by the third through eighth grade students at Shepherd of the Hills. This is the second year HCCS students have attended the event.
One parent commented: It was "a very quiet, prayerful, and wonderful experience. The cast was very young and were amazing!"
"It was a beautiful and spiritual experience and our students were deeply touched by the greatest story ever told," said a HCCS staff member.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay, Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 140 years and has an enrollment of 165 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community. To read all Holy Cross Catholic School blog posts, click here and scroll down.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Called to Witness: Faith Formation Catechist Molli Flood
Name: Molli FloodWhat grade do you teach? 4 year old pre-school
How many years have you taught in a Faith Formation Program? One
What do you enjoy about sharing your faith in our Holy Cross Faith Formation Program?
I truly enjoy everything. I love watching kids learn.
What do you do in your free time?
My time is spent with my family and all our activities.
Other interests:
Quilting, scrapbooking and reading.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Holy Cross Scrip Update
Copps
Starting next week, Copps gift cards will be available in $100. Watch for $50 gift cards later this month!
Barnes and Noble
Great news...Barnes & Noble will be offering a 1% bonus benefit effective Saturday, March 15th until Friday, April 4th. When you purchase the popular $10, $20 "Teacher Gift", $25, and $100 denominations during this special offer you will receive a 10% contribution instead of the normal 9%.
The gift card is redeemable at Barnes & Noble stores nationwide and online at Barnes & Noble.com (http://www.bn.com/). The Barnes & Noble card may also be used at any B. Dalton Bookseller, Bookstar, Bookstop, and Barnes & Noble College Bookstore.
Walmart
Starting next week, Copps gift cards will be available in $100. Watch for $50 gift cards later this month!
Barnes and Noble
Great news...Barnes & Noble will be offering a 1% bonus benefit effective Saturday, March 15th until Friday, April 4th. When you purchase the popular $10, $20 "Teacher Gift", $25, and $100 denominations during this special offer you will receive a 10% contribution instead of the normal 9%.
The gift card is redeemable at Barnes & Noble stores nationwide and online at Barnes & Noble.com (http://www.bn.com/). The Barnes & Noble card may also be used at any B. Dalton Bookseller, Bookstar, Bookstop, and Barnes & Noble College Bookstore.
Walmart
Wal-Mart is now available in a new $250 denomination in addition to the already popular $25 and $100 gift cards.
$crip Sales
The total for $crip sales for the week of 3/3 to 3/9 is as follows:
The total for $crip sales for the week of 3/3 to 3/9 is as follows:
Total sold: $5,642.00
Tuition credit: $84.09
Parish credit: $47.64.
Thank you to all who support our $crip program in any way!
What is Scrip?
When your organization members purchase scrip, they're purchasing negotiable gift certificates that are used just like cash. The scrip is issued by the national and local retailers where many of your organization families already shop. These merchants want to support non-profit organizations, and in return ask you to support them by shopping with scrip at their stores. Your organization members can use scrip to purchase everyday expenses like food, clothing, and other essentials, and with every purchase, they earn revenue for your organization. (Excerpted from the Great Lakes Scrip website).
Scrip is available after Mass on the weekends and in the school office weekdays. Questions may be directed to scrip@holycrossfamily.org.
Related links:
Weekly Catholic Virtue Reflection: Joy
“The fruits of the Spirit are perfections that the Holy Spirit forms in us as the first fruits of eternal glory.” Catechism of the Catholic Church 1832
"The difference between shallow happiness and a deep sustaining joy is sorrow. Happiness lives where sorrow is not. When sorrow arrives, happiness dies. It can't stand pain. Joy, on the other hand, rises from sorrow and therefore can withstand all grief. Joy, by the grace of God, is the transfiguration of suffering into endurance, and of endurance into character, and of character into hope--and the hope that has become our joy does not (as happiness must for those who depend upon it) disappoint us." Reliving the Passion by Walter Wangrin.
May God bless you as you continue your Lenten journey,
Robin Jo Jensen
Principal
Holy Cross School Catholic Virtue Education
Catholic Virtue Education focuses on teaching students and their families about Catholic virtue as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. While all of the virtues, works, gifts and fruits are intricately intertwined into our Catholic Faith, Catholic Virtue Education at Holy Cross Catholic School focuses on certain aspects each month in order to enhance learning for all students, of all abilities, in all grades.
Each month a new virtue is developed, and the students are involved in defining, discussing and exhibiting that trait in their daily lives. Principal Robin Jo Jensen includes reflections on the month's virtue in her weekly parent letter to spur discussions at home. At the end of the month parents are encouraged to attend a student-directed, all-school assembly focusing on the lessons taught throughout the month.
The next HCCS Catholic Virtue Assembly will take place on Friday, March 28 at 2 PM in the school gym.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay, Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 139 years and has an enrollment of 161 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community. To read all Holy Cross Catholic School blog posts, click here and scroll down.
"The difference between shallow happiness and a deep sustaining joy is sorrow. Happiness lives where sorrow is not. When sorrow arrives, happiness dies. It can't stand pain. Joy, on the other hand, rises from sorrow and therefore can withstand all grief. Joy, by the grace of God, is the transfiguration of suffering into endurance, and of endurance into character, and of character into hope--and the hope that has become our joy does not (as happiness must for those who depend upon it) disappoint us." Reliving the Passion by Walter Wangrin.
May God bless you as you continue your Lenten journey,
Robin Jo Jensen
Principal
Holy Cross School Catholic Virtue Education
Catholic Virtue Education focuses on teaching students and their families about Catholic virtue as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. While all of the virtues, works, gifts and fruits are intricately intertwined into our Catholic Faith, Catholic Virtue Education at Holy Cross Catholic School focuses on certain aspects each month in order to enhance learning for all students, of all abilities, in all grades.
Each month a new virtue is developed, and the students are involved in defining, discussing and exhibiting that trait in their daily lives. Principal Robin Jo Jensen includes reflections on the month's virtue in her weekly parent letter to spur discussions at home. At the end of the month parents are encouraged to attend a student-directed, all-school assembly focusing on the lessons taught throughout the month.
The next HCCS Catholic Virtue Assembly will take place on Friday, March 28 at 2 PM in the school gym.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay, Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 139 years and has an enrollment of 161 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community. To read all Holy Cross Catholic School blog posts, click here and scroll down.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
USCCB Launches Papal Visit Blog
A press release posted to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Website:
WASHINGTON—An inside view of papal visit preparations, views from the pew, and reflections on the meaning of Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to the United States, April 15-20, can be found on the papal visit blog at www.uspapalvisit.org/.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Department for Communications launched the blog March 10, with initial entries from USCCB staff. Their comments include everything from a reflection on the theme by Helen Osman, Secretary for Communications; observations on the ethnic diversity of today’s church in the United States by Jesuit Father Allan Deck, head of the USCCB Secretariat of Cultural Diversity; and an observation by Pat Ryan Garcia, assistant director for USCCB Digital Media, that the pope is blessing both baseball leagues on his visit: He will offer Mass in a National League stadium in Washington (Nationals Park) and an American League park in New York (Yankee Stadium).
The first blog comment posted on the site comes from a former catechist in Pennsylvania who is hoping for a ticket to a papal Mass.
The blog is a new USCCB effort spearheaded by the USCCB’s new Office for Digital Media.
The www.uspapalvisit.org/ Web page is also a source of information for the general public as well as for media covering the event. Reporters and editors will access materials for their purposes through a password-protected section.
www.uspapalvisit.org/ provides links to various venues of the visit, background on the pope and the church in the United States and offers teaching resources provided by the Archdiocese of Washington.
For media inquiries, e-mail us at commdept@usccb.org
Office of Media Relations 3211 4th Street, N.E., Washington DC 20017-1194 (202) 541-3000 © USCCB. All rights reserved.
WASHINGTON—An inside view of papal visit preparations, views from the pew, and reflections on the meaning of Pope Benedict XVI’s visit to the United States, April 15-20, can be found on the papal visit blog at www.uspapalvisit.org/.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Department for Communications launched the blog March 10, with initial entries from USCCB staff. Their comments include everything from a reflection on the theme by Helen Osman, Secretary for Communications; observations on the ethnic diversity of today’s church in the United States by Jesuit Father Allan Deck, head of the USCCB Secretariat of Cultural Diversity; and an observation by Pat Ryan Garcia, assistant director for USCCB Digital Media, that the pope is blessing both baseball leagues on his visit: He will offer Mass in a National League stadium in Washington (Nationals Park) and an American League park in New York (Yankee Stadium).
The first blog comment posted on the site comes from a former catechist in Pennsylvania who is hoping for a ticket to a papal Mass.
The blog is a new USCCB effort spearheaded by the USCCB’s new Office for Digital Media.
The www.uspapalvisit.org/ Web page is also a source of information for the general public as well as for media covering the event. Reporters and editors will access materials for their purposes through a password-protected section.
www.uspapalvisit.org/ provides links to various venues of the visit, background on the pope and the church in the United States and offers teaching resources provided by the Archdiocese of Washington.
For media inquiries, e-mail us at commdept@usccb.org
Office of Media Relations 3211 4th Street, N.E., Washington DC 20017-1194 (202) 541-3000 © USCCB. All rights reserved.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Meet the Teacher: Mrs. Michelle Jacques, Early Childhood Four
Education: Graduated with an associate degree in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Jacques is a certified paraprofessional with the Green Bay Public Schools.Teaching Experience: Mrs. Jacques owned and operated state licensed child care centers for seven years. Each center was licensed for 78 children and had 18 staff members. She worked for the Green Bay Public Schools as a paraprofessional-teacher’s assistant, specifically with early childhood and kindergarten children with special needs. Mrs. Jacques taught preschool at the YWCA, Trinity Catholic School and now here at Holy Cross Catholic School.
Number of years at Holy Cross: First year.
Mrs. Jacques commented on her early childhood classes: “I am very excited to have the all day early childhood classes! The children have done a great job adapting to the new schedule and are having a lot of fun. The seventh and eighth graders are our helpers at lunch -- the preschoolers look forward to ‘the big kids’ coming to our classroom to walk them down to lunch.”
What she likes about Holy Cross Catholic School: “I enjoy the small ‘family’ atmosphere at Holy Cross Catholic School. Every single student is important to the principal, faculty and staff. This is the best school ever!”
Free Time: Mrs. Jacques and her husband Rob have three children. Brianna is a senior at UW-Milwaukee (Holy Cross alum-class of 2000); AJ is in eighth grade; and Beaux is in fourth grade -- both at Holy Cross. Their family lives on Shawano Lake, so most of their free time is play time. Mrs. Jacques commented: “When we aren’t playing in or on the water, we enjoy playing Phase 10 (card game) or Rummikub.”
Sunday, March 9, 2008
What's Happening in the Faith Formation Program?
Faith Formation Schedule
WEDNESDAY, March 12
Grades 2 - 6: 5:30 - 6:30pm
Grades 7 - 10: 6:45 - 8:00pm
SUNDAY, March 16
"I Am Special" Pre-School & Gr. 1: 10:00-11:00am (during Mass)
First Communion Bread sharing Weekend!
As we come together to learn about Jesus and the Eucharist, we hope to involve our parish family in a very special way. This week-end we will be sharing loaves of bread with parishioners at all the Masses, who will then become our "prayer partners" during our time of preparation. In this way our whole parish family can share in our story and in our joy!
Faith Formation Committee Meeting
Tuesday, March 11, 6:30pm in the FF Office.
About Holy Cross Faith Formation
WEDNESDAY, March 12
Grades 2 - 6: 5:30 - 6:30pm
Grades 7 - 10: 6:45 - 8:00pm
SUNDAY, March 16
"I Am Special" Pre-School & Gr. 1: 10:00-11:00am (during Mass)
First Communion Bread sharing Weekend!
As we come together to learn about Jesus and the Eucharist, we hope to involve our parish family in a very special way. This week-end we will be sharing loaves of bread with parishioners at all the Masses, who will then become our "prayer partners" during our time of preparation. In this way our whole parish family can share in our story and in our joy!
Faith Formation Committee Meeting
Tuesday, March 11, 6:30pm in the FF Office.
About Holy Cross Faith Formation
All children in the Holy Cross Parish Family have the right and opportunity to be educated in their faith. Children and young adults often have questions about God. The Holy Cross Parish Faith Formation program works with parents to answer these questions and to bring our young people into a closer relationship with God; a relationship which motivates them to make good moral decisions in order to live Christ-like lives.
To see Faith Formation photos, click on the photo albums underneath Faith Formation Contact Information on the right hand side of the blog. To read all Faith Formation blog posts, click here.
Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship Corner
I shared my TIME and TALENT by:
- I helped Mom put up Easter decorations
- I helped my little sister clean her room several times
- I put away laundry for my Mom
- I salted my neighbors driveway for her
- I'm praying for world peace!
- I gave items to the Golden House
- I helped shovel at my cottage
- I took care of my brother & sister last week-end
- We prayed for Baby Ella's family
- I shared my "webkinz" with my sister
Total TREASURE shared: $8.00
Our Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship program is a tool available for us to help teach the basics of stewardship to our youth. Stewardship is a decision we make to live as Christians and to thank God for all of His blessings by helping to take care of the church and the world on behalf of God. Stewardship is often touched upon throughout the Bible and in our faith formation process; the Youth Stewardship Program helps bring all of these teachings together.
For more information about Holy Cross Faith Formation, please check out the links located on the right hand side of the blog.
- I helped Mom put up Easter decorations
- I helped my little sister clean her room several times
- I put away laundry for my Mom
- I salted my neighbors driveway for her
- I'm praying for world peace!
- I gave items to the Golden House
- I helped shovel at my cottage
- I took care of my brother & sister last week-end
- We prayed for Baby Ella's family
- I shared my "webkinz" with my sister
Total TREASURE shared: $8.00
Our Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship program is a tool available for us to help teach the basics of stewardship to our youth. Stewardship is a decision we make to live as Christians and to thank God for all of His blessings by helping to take care of the church and the world on behalf of God. Stewardship is often touched upon throughout the Bible and in our faith formation process; the Youth Stewardship Program helps bring all of these teachings together.
For more information about Holy Cross Faith Formation, please check out the links located on the right hand side of the blog.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
March 8/9 from the Pastor's Desk...
My Dear Parishioners,
Where did February go? It is difficult to believe that we are into March and Easter Sunday looms on the horizon. Today we began "Daylight Saving Time” and that is an indicator that Spring is coming, and for most of us it will be very welcomed and we will gladly say goodbye to the cold, snow and ice.
Next Sunday is “Palm Sunday” and we will once again bring our Lenten Journey to its final week as we celebrate the high holy days of Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Easter Sunday. I encourage you and your family to attend our Holy Week Services. They are very moving and beautiful and can be a tremendous help in bringing you from Lenten penance and self-sacrifice into the joy and beauty of the Easter Season. Our Schedule for Holy Week is as follows:
Palm Sunday : 4 pm Sat / 8 & 10 am Sunday
Monday , Tuesday, Wednesday = Mass at 8 am
(no 6:45 pm Mass on Tuesday)
Chrism Mass at Cathedral on Tuesday, 4 pm
Holy Thursday, 7 pm , Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion = 1 pm
Holy Saturday, Easter Vigil = 7 pm
(No 4 pm Mass on Holy Saturday)
Easter Sunday = Masses at 8 am & 10 am
No scheduled Mass for Easter Monday or Tuesday
Please remember that this Friday we will have our final FISH DINNER. Why not invite your family and friends to come to Holy Cross and enjoy a delightful dinner, good company and some wonderful deserts. In addition you will be helping your parish.
I also want to once again say “Thank You” to all who participated in the “Buy a Table” for our parish center – if you attended any of the Fish Dinners you know how wonderful these new tables (and some chairs) are. Those who set them up and take them down have told me how much easier it is to do so. They are also most attractive and work perfectly for us. So thank you to all who made this possible and may God Bless you for your generosity.
I hope that all will take some time to look at the new windows which have been installed in the rectory. I cannot begin to tell you about the difference they have made in the rectory environment. The old drafts and cold coming through the old windows are gone and I know that we will save a great deal in heating and air conditioning costs. The windows were made possible by all who participated in the "Advancing the Mission” campaign – “Thank You Very Much.”
Oremus pro invicem
Fr Tom
Where did February go? It is difficult to believe that we are into March and Easter Sunday looms on the horizon. Today we began "Daylight Saving Time” and that is an indicator that Spring is coming, and for most of us it will be very welcomed and we will gladly say goodbye to the cold, snow and ice.
Next Sunday is “Palm Sunday” and we will once again bring our Lenten Journey to its final week as we celebrate the high holy days of Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Easter Sunday. I encourage you and your family to attend our Holy Week Services. They are very moving and beautiful and can be a tremendous help in bringing you from Lenten penance and self-sacrifice into the joy and beauty of the Easter Season. Our Schedule for Holy Week is as follows:
Palm Sunday : 4 pm Sat / 8 & 10 am Sunday
Monday , Tuesday, Wednesday = Mass at 8 am
(no 6:45 pm Mass on Tuesday)
Chrism Mass at Cathedral on Tuesday, 4 pm
Holy Thursday, 7 pm , Mass of the Lord’s Supper
Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion = 1 pm
Holy Saturday, Easter Vigil = 7 pm
(No 4 pm Mass on Holy Saturday)
Easter Sunday = Masses at 8 am & 10 am
No scheduled Mass for Easter Monday or Tuesday
Please remember that this Friday we will have our final FISH DINNER. Why not invite your family and friends to come to Holy Cross and enjoy a delightful dinner, good company and some wonderful deserts. In addition you will be helping your parish.
I also want to once again say “Thank You” to all who participated in the “Buy a Table” for our parish center – if you attended any of the Fish Dinners you know how wonderful these new tables (and some chairs) are. Those who set them up and take them down have told me how much easier it is to do so. They are also most attractive and work perfectly for us. So thank you to all who made this possible and may God Bless you for your generosity.
I hope that all will take some time to look at the new windows which have been installed in the rectory. I cannot begin to tell you about the difference they have made in the rectory environment. The old drafts and cold coming through the old windows are gone and I know that we will save a great deal in heating and air conditioning costs. The windows were made possible by all who participated in the "Advancing the Mission” campaign – “Thank You Very Much.”
Oremus pro invicem
Fr Tom
Friday, March 7, 2008
Book Review: Meet Bishop Morneau’s God of love and mercy
By Jean Peerenboom
Reconciliation by Robert Morneau (Orbis Books, $10)
Pathways to God: Four Weeks on Faith, Hope and Charity by Robert F. Morneau (New York City Press)
Reconciliation
Reconciliation means making relationships right. We want to live in right relationship with God, with ourselves and with others. Doesn’t that sound easy?
Yet, we all know how difficult relationships can be. Let’s face it, the spiritual relationship is usually the one left behind in our hectic, busy lives.
But, Bishop Robert Morneau, of the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay, offers help with that in a beautiful book titled Reconciliation. It is part of a series on Catholic Spirituality for Adults from Orbis Books. It is also one of two books recently published by Morneau, who proves one of his greatest gifts is his ability to teach.
Dedicated to the late Bishop Wycisclo, Reconciliation is written in Morneau’s clear, easy-to-understand style with a hint of his delightful sense of humor here and there. It walks us through the mystery of God’s mercy, the mystery of the human person and the mystery of sin. He introduces us to a sacrament that is more than just confessing a litany of sins to a priest. It’s a sacrament that can bring “us face to face with the merciful Christ.”
The sacrament of Reconciliation has lost some of its appeal in recent years. Perhaps, it’s seen as irrelevant to generations who are comfortable letting it all hang out. People are not afraid of going on national television and sharing their innermost thoughts. Therapy is not viewed with the stigma it once was.
But there’s more to confession than just trying to fix ourselves or simply understanding ourselves.
Morneau walks us through an examination of conscience based on the fruits of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness and self-control. There are also the theological virtues of faith, hope and charity, as well as the moral virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance.
My favorite passage is: “Things and people break easily. We must be tender and gentle if we are to live the Christian life. This is in no way softness; rather only the strong can afford to be gentle.”
He makes it sound so easy, doesn’t he?
The book also includes an explanation of the principles of reconciliation, a question-and-answer section on the church’s practice and history, and reconciliation through poetry.
Pathways to God
The second book, Pathways to God, has a tremendous amount of information and inspiration packed into 72 pages.
Baptism summons us to a virtuous life. Pathways “invites us to answer that call more completely by reflecting on the three great theological virtues: Faith, hope and charity.”
Morneau presents God as loving and full of hope – one who easily inspires faith. Reading the book and reflecting on the song or introduction, the poetry, the questions and the prayers is an uplifting four-week mediation.
Divided into four sections with seven chapters each, it’s a way to know God more deeply in a month’s time. Each day’s entry ends with a question and short prayer. Each day opens with a song or hymn that proclaims our faith, followed by passages for meditations from poets, novelists, philosophers and theologians.
The questions are outstanding. Consider:
“What is the difference between the statements ‘God is love’ and ‘Love is God?’”
“How large and inclusive is your world?”
“Why is it that we cannot, by our strength and will power, love others as God would have us love?”
Yes, Bishop Morneau makes it all sound so easy!
Next: Things Hidden: Scripture as Spirituality by Richard Rohr
Jean Peerenboom is the former religion/books editor from the Green Bay Press Gazette. Jean is currently the volunteer coordinator at the NEW Community Shelter, 301 Mather St., Green Bay, and a candidate with the Sisters of St. Francis of the Holy Cross. She writes a monthly book review for the Holy Cross Family Blogspot.
To read all of Jean Peerenboom's book reviews, click here.
Reconciliation by Robert Morneau (Orbis Books, $10)
Pathways to God: Four Weeks on Faith, Hope and Charity by Robert F. Morneau (New York City Press)
ReconciliationReconciliation means making relationships right. We want to live in right relationship with God, with ourselves and with others. Doesn’t that sound easy?
Yet, we all know how difficult relationships can be. Let’s face it, the spiritual relationship is usually the one left behind in our hectic, busy lives.
But, Bishop Robert Morneau, of the Catholic Diocese of Green Bay, offers help with that in a beautiful book titled Reconciliation. It is part of a series on Catholic Spirituality for Adults from Orbis Books. It is also one of two books recently published by Morneau, who proves one of his greatest gifts is his ability to teach.
Dedicated to the late Bishop Wycisclo, Reconciliation is written in Morneau’s clear, easy-to-understand style with a hint of his delightful sense of humor here and there. It walks us through the mystery of God’s mercy, the mystery of the human person and the mystery of sin. He introduces us to a sacrament that is more than just confessing a litany of sins to a priest. It’s a sacrament that can bring “us face to face with the merciful Christ.”
The sacrament of Reconciliation has lost some of its appeal in recent years. Perhaps, it’s seen as irrelevant to generations who are comfortable letting it all hang out. People are not afraid of going on national television and sharing their innermost thoughts. Therapy is not viewed with the stigma it once was.
But there’s more to confession than just trying to fix ourselves or simply understanding ourselves.
Morneau walks us through an examination of conscience based on the fruits of the Holy Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness and self-control. There are also the theological virtues of faith, hope and charity, as well as the moral virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude and temperance.
My favorite passage is: “Things and people break easily. We must be tender and gentle if we are to live the Christian life. This is in no way softness; rather only the strong can afford to be gentle.”
He makes it sound so easy, doesn’t he?
The book also includes an explanation of the principles of reconciliation, a question-and-answer section on the church’s practice and history, and reconciliation through poetry.
Pathways to God
The second book, Pathways to God, has a tremendous amount of information and inspiration packed into 72 pages.
Baptism summons us to a virtuous life. Pathways “invites us to answer that call more completely by reflecting on the three great theological virtues: Faith, hope and charity.”
Morneau presents God as loving and full of hope – one who easily inspires faith. Reading the book and reflecting on the song or introduction, the poetry, the questions and the prayers is an uplifting four-week mediation.
Divided into four sections with seven chapters each, it’s a way to know God more deeply in a month’s time. Each day’s entry ends with a question and short prayer. Each day opens with a song or hymn that proclaims our faith, followed by passages for meditations from poets, novelists, philosophers and theologians.
The questions are outstanding. Consider:
“What is the difference between the statements ‘God is love’ and ‘Love is God?’”
“How large and inclusive is your world?”
“Why is it that we cannot, by our strength and will power, love others as God would have us love?”
Yes, Bishop Morneau makes it all sound so easy!
Next: Things Hidden: Scripture as Spirituality by Richard Rohr
Jean Peerenboom is the former religion/books editor from the Green Bay Press Gazette. Jean is currently the volunteer coordinator at the NEW Community Shelter, 301 Mather St., Green Bay, and a candidate with the Sisters of St. Francis of the Holy Cross. She writes a monthly book review for the Holy Cross Family Blogspot.
To read all of Jean Peerenboom's book reviews, click here.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Weekly Catholic Virtue Reflection: Joy
The Fruit of the Holy Spirit, “Joy," is the focus of our Catholic Virtue Education Program during the month of March.
The Encarta Dictionary defines Joy: 1. great happiness; 2. something that brings happiness. Synonyms of Joy are: delight, happiness, pleasure, enjoyment, bliss, elation, and thrill.
When you think about your Catholic faith, don’t these definitions and synonyms say it all? As we journey through the sometimes dark, stark, bleak days of Lent, it is difficult to think about the Joy that will come at the end of this Lenten journey. However, we know that at the end of these forty days, we will celebrate our ultimate Joy; the resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ!
May God bless you as you continue your Lenten journey,
Robin Jo Jensen
Principal
Holy Cross School Catholic Virtue Education
Catholic Virtue Education focuses on teaching students and their families about Catholic virtue as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. While all of the virtues, works, gifts and fruits are intricately intertwined into our Catholic Faith, Catholic Virtue Education at Holy Cross Catholic School focuses on certain aspects each month in order to enhance learning for all students, of all abilities, in all grades.
Catholic Virtue Education focuses on teaching students and their families about Catholic virtue as outlined in the Catechism of the Catholic Church. While all of the virtues, works, gifts and fruits are intricately intertwined into our Catholic Faith, Catholic Virtue Education at Holy Cross Catholic School focuses on certain aspects each month in order to enhance learning for all students, of all abilities, in all grades.
Each month a new virtue is developed, and the students are involved in defining, discussing and exhibiting that trait in their daily lives. Principal Robin Jo Jensen includes reflections on the month's virtue in her weekly parent letter to spur discussions at home. At the end of the month parents are encouraged to attend a student-directed, all-school assembly focusing on the lessons taught throughout the month.
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay, Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 139 years and has an enrollment of 161 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community. To read all Holy Cross Catholic School blog posts, click here and scroll down.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Diocese of Green Bay Offers Adult Faith Formation Programs
The Green Bay Diocese, as part of the Lifelong Catholic Education Program, offers a full slate of educational opportunities for those interested in learning more about the Catholic faith and exploring their spirituality. There are far too many classes, groups, presentations and studies to list in one blog post--to view the full five pages worth of information, please click here.
Called to Witness: Faith Formation Catechist Jim Gapinski
Name: Jim GapinskiWhat grade do you teach? Eleventh and twelfth grades
How many years have you taught in a Faith Formation Program? Three
What grades have you taught? First, ninth, eleventh and twelfth grades
What do you like about sharing your faith in our Holy Cross Faith Formation Program? I like exposing the classes to some of the major bible stories and seeing how these stories apply to what we believe and celebrate on Sunday.
What do you do in your free time? Play music, read, and help the little kids with their homework. Not cleaning so much according to my wife.
Other interests? How people sleep at night.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Holy Cross Parish Offers Care Ministry
Deacon Jim Heider has started a Care program through Holy Cross Parish. He recently provided some information for blogspot readers who might be interested in learning more about this ministry.
What do Care Ministers do as part of the Care Program?
Care Ministers visit with people referred from the parish or to the pastor as delegated. These are typically parishioners living in nursing homes, shut-ins in their own homes, or others who may need grief support or counseling.
How many Care Ministers does Holy Cross currently have?
We currently have three Care Ministers with myself as coordinator. I am responsible for calling meetings and organizing our parish program. Bette Johnson is trained as a minister and Virginia Moreau is still active as a minister. Joan and Norb Jadin have continued to follow-up and developed new contacts. We also have a Parish Counselor who is currently getting set up with the Diocese and obtaining insurance.
What sort of training is required to become a Care Minister?
There is Diocesan training for both the ministers (12 hours total in 3 installments) and also a 2 day coordinator training in the diocese. All of the Care Ministers/Coordinators are required to go through the Virtus Training for Protecting God's Children. In my own case, I did this as part of my Deacon formation program through the Diocese. We hope to have some new training from Unity Hospice and other sources.
What do Care Ministers do as part of the Care Program?
Care Ministers visit with people referred from the parish or to the pastor as delegated. These are typically parishioners living in nursing homes, shut-ins in their own homes, or others who may need grief support or counseling.
How many Care Ministers does Holy Cross currently have?
We currently have three Care Ministers with myself as coordinator. I am responsible for calling meetings and organizing our parish program. Bette Johnson is trained as a minister and Virginia Moreau is still active as a minister. Joan and Norb Jadin have continued to follow-up and developed new contacts. We also have a Parish Counselor who is currently getting set up with the Diocese and obtaining insurance.
What sort of training is required to become a Care Minister?
There is Diocesan training for both the ministers (12 hours total in 3 installments) and also a 2 day coordinator training in the diocese. All of the Care Ministers/Coordinators are required to go through the Virtus Training for Protecting God's Children. In my own case, I did this as part of my Deacon formation program through the Diocese. We hope to have some new training from Unity Hospice and other sources.
Is the Care Program related to the BeFriender Program?
Our name is no longer BeFrienders, although I liked that name. Because of the expense of training in Minnesota under the official name, and the presence of many Stephen Ministers (a similar training program) the Diocese changed the name to Care Ministry. They have developed new training for the ministers, as well as the coordinators.
Our name is no longer BeFrienders, although I liked that name. Because of the expense of training in Minnesota under the official name, and the presence of many Stephen Ministers (a similar training program) the Diocese changed the name to Care Ministry. They have developed new training for the ministers, as well as the coordinators.
Someone from St. Mathew's has offered to help us get off the ground again. This is the second time for me, as Coordinator. I helped start the BeFrienders about ten years ago. At one point, we had well over ten volunteers, with several couples visiting nursing homes, etc. Our new focus is the Homebound (shut-ins), and we continue to visit in nursing homes. Bette now has 5 people and I have four. Virginia has two so that makes at least 11 people served.
Are you interested in becoming a Care Minister? For more information, contact Deacon Jim Heider at jpheider48@earthlink.net.
Planning begins for shelter operation next year
A press release posted to the Green Bay Diocese Website:
Deacon Tim Reilly, Diocesan Director of Administration, made the following announcement today in consultation with Archbishop Timothy Dolan, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Green Bay.
As Catholics, we are called to give food and shelter to those in need. Jesus is our example of this ministry. He showed a radical hospitality to the sick, to the hungry as well as to those considered untouchable. We, as Catholics, cannot shirk from this Gospel imperative.
Since opening its doors on November 6, 2007, the staff and volunteers at the St. John the Evangelist Homeless Shelter have demonstrated radical hospitality. About 231 homeless brothers and sisters have been served. While anticipating approximately 25 guests per night we have averaged 38.
In the last four months, we have worked diligently to provide a safe place for the homeless. We have collaborated with other social service agencies to provide broader care to individuals coming to the shelter. We have worked with city government in listening to their concerns and advice and trying to comply with their wishes while still fulfilling the essence of our homeless ministry. I believe that we have a strong safety program established with the Green Bay Police Department. We have opened the dialogue with the neighborhood to listen to their concerns and make as many adjustments to our shelter operations as possible. And we have received tremendous support from a broad cross-section of the community whose members have volunteered their time and resources to make the shelter a success.
As we look at today’s homeless situation in Brown County and look to the winter of 2008/2009, we see two fundamental issues for our community:
• First, we still do not have a viable plan within our community for the shelter and safety of homeless people who do not qualify for service at other shelters. While we contacted churches and communities outside of the city limits of Green Bay as requested by the City Council, none of the contacts responded with a facility to serve as a temporary emergency shelter.
• Secondly, even if a portion of our guests were eligible to stay at other shelters, there is not sufficient capacity. The number of homeless looking for shelter has increased dramatically from last winter to this winter. In speaking with other agencies providing shelter to the homeless, we found that there are no plans to expand facilities or programs that could accommodate the people using St. John’s shelter.
As a result, St. John the Evangelist Homeless Shelter will open again on November 1, 2008. Assuming we can overcome certain financial challenges, our approach will be the following:
1. The shelter will operate primarily as an overnight emergency shelter to provide a secure and safe place for the homeless during winter months. While this is a core ministry of the Catholic Church, we will continue to work with other social service agencies to provide resources for our guests to be able to segue to more permanent shelter accommodations. We will work in good faith with the city government to find common ground whereby this shelter can operate with the support of the people of Green Bay and the City Council. We will continue to work closely with the Green Bay Police Department on a robust safety plan. Finally, we will continue our open dialogue with neighbors to hear their suggestions and make modifications as needed.
2. We will open the shelter earlier than 6:00 p.m. Currently, our homeless guests are arriving prior to 6:00 p.m. and we believe that an earlier start time will be responsive to the concerns of our neighbors.
3. On weekdays, we will stay open a little longer in the morning in order to provide more time for social workers of other social service agencies to work with the guests of the shelter to help enable them to move toward more permanent shelter options.
4. We will endeavor to find another church or social service agency that will partner with us to provide a day center for the homeless. This will provide another option for day-time shelter of the homeless.
5. We will work with other faith communities or social service agencies outside of the City of Green Bay to provide shelter to some of the homeless who come to St. John’s. The concept visualizes a person checking in at the St. John Homeless Shelter site but then being transported to other sites outside of the City of Green Bay for overnight shelter. The ability of this program to work needs to respect and adhere to guidelines for safety and security.
6. Finally, if we have sufficient funds, we believe that it would be advantageous to have a social worker serve as the Executive Director of the shelter on a twelve-month basis. In this fashion, we can maintain contact with the homeless throughout the year even though we are not providing shelter accommodations. This will provide us with the opportunity for a continuum of support so that our homeless brothers and sisters are provided with as many options as possible to find permanent housing.
We, as the Catholic Church cannot shirk from this Gospel imperative and we as a community cannot turn our backs on those who are in need. Therefore, we must be ready to give shelter to our homeless brothers and sisters next winter.
Related links:
St. John the Evangelist Homeless Shelter Webpage
St. John's Homeless Shelter to reopen in November, March 4, 2008, Green Bay Press Gazette
Deacon Tim Reilly, Diocesan Director of Administration, made the following announcement today in consultation with Archbishop Timothy Dolan, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Green Bay.
As Catholics, we are called to give food and shelter to those in need. Jesus is our example of this ministry. He showed a radical hospitality to the sick, to the hungry as well as to those considered untouchable. We, as Catholics, cannot shirk from this Gospel imperative.
Since opening its doors on November 6, 2007, the staff and volunteers at the St. John the Evangelist Homeless Shelter have demonstrated radical hospitality. About 231 homeless brothers and sisters have been served. While anticipating approximately 25 guests per night we have averaged 38.
In the last four months, we have worked diligently to provide a safe place for the homeless. We have collaborated with other social service agencies to provide broader care to individuals coming to the shelter. We have worked with city government in listening to their concerns and advice and trying to comply with their wishes while still fulfilling the essence of our homeless ministry. I believe that we have a strong safety program established with the Green Bay Police Department. We have opened the dialogue with the neighborhood to listen to their concerns and make as many adjustments to our shelter operations as possible. And we have received tremendous support from a broad cross-section of the community whose members have volunteered their time and resources to make the shelter a success.
As we look at today’s homeless situation in Brown County and look to the winter of 2008/2009, we see two fundamental issues for our community:
• First, we still do not have a viable plan within our community for the shelter and safety of homeless people who do not qualify for service at other shelters. While we contacted churches and communities outside of the city limits of Green Bay as requested by the City Council, none of the contacts responded with a facility to serve as a temporary emergency shelter.
• Secondly, even if a portion of our guests were eligible to stay at other shelters, there is not sufficient capacity. The number of homeless looking for shelter has increased dramatically from last winter to this winter. In speaking with other agencies providing shelter to the homeless, we found that there are no plans to expand facilities or programs that could accommodate the people using St. John’s shelter.
As a result, St. John the Evangelist Homeless Shelter will open again on November 1, 2008. Assuming we can overcome certain financial challenges, our approach will be the following:
1. The shelter will operate primarily as an overnight emergency shelter to provide a secure and safe place for the homeless during winter months. While this is a core ministry of the Catholic Church, we will continue to work with other social service agencies to provide resources for our guests to be able to segue to more permanent shelter accommodations. We will work in good faith with the city government to find common ground whereby this shelter can operate with the support of the people of Green Bay and the City Council. We will continue to work closely with the Green Bay Police Department on a robust safety plan. Finally, we will continue our open dialogue with neighbors to hear their suggestions and make modifications as needed.
2. We will open the shelter earlier than 6:00 p.m. Currently, our homeless guests are arriving prior to 6:00 p.m. and we believe that an earlier start time will be responsive to the concerns of our neighbors.
3. On weekdays, we will stay open a little longer in the morning in order to provide more time for social workers of other social service agencies to work with the guests of the shelter to help enable them to move toward more permanent shelter options.
4. We will endeavor to find another church or social service agency that will partner with us to provide a day center for the homeless. This will provide another option for day-time shelter of the homeless.
5. We will work with other faith communities or social service agencies outside of the City of Green Bay to provide shelter to some of the homeless who come to St. John’s. The concept visualizes a person checking in at the St. John Homeless Shelter site but then being transported to other sites outside of the City of Green Bay for overnight shelter. The ability of this program to work needs to respect and adhere to guidelines for safety and security.
6. Finally, if we have sufficient funds, we believe that it would be advantageous to have a social worker serve as the Executive Director of the shelter on a twelve-month basis. In this fashion, we can maintain contact with the homeless throughout the year even though we are not providing shelter accommodations. This will provide us with the opportunity for a continuum of support so that our homeless brothers and sisters are provided with as many options as possible to find permanent housing.
We, as the Catholic Church cannot shirk from this Gospel imperative and we as a community cannot turn our backs on those who are in need. Therefore, we must be ready to give shelter to our homeless brothers and sisters next winter.
Related links:
St. John the Evangelist Homeless Shelter Webpage
St. John's Homeless Shelter to reopen in November, March 4, 2008, Green Bay Press Gazette
Monday, March 3, 2008
Holy Cross Catholic School Kids Serve Meal at NEW Shelter
Text submitted by Cheryl Vandenmeerendonk and HCCS middle schoolers
Photos submitted by Jean Rakers
Photos submitted by Jean Rakers
The serving of a hot meal at the NEW Shelter/Room at the Inn annual project was once again successful, and eye opening for some of our guest servers. It was a cold night, and we served almost 100 people. The generosity of stew portions served by the guest middle schoolers matched the generosity of their hearts as they reached out to these people whom they may have been hesitant about initially. Thank you to you four students and to Mrs. Jean Rakers for cooking, driving, taking photos and helping to serve as well!
I would like to thank the following people. Stewmakers: Cynthia VanSistine, Jean Reetz, Jean Rakers, Michelle VanLieshout, Bonnie VanHout, Christine O'Toole, Kathy Janquart, Nancy Gapinski, Annette Walczyk, Veronica Heffernan, Barb Conard, Dolly Willems, Jan Walton, Lisa Adamczak, and Cathy Zehms. Jello with Fruit makers: Lynn Meyers, Heather Zeise, Becky Kaye, Heidi Martin, Susie Palines, Kate Meeuwsen, Cindy Champeau, and Cami Wright. Thank you and God Bless you!
I don't want to forget to thank those whom donated to the "cookie fund", that Becky Kaye dreamed up and did the legwork to get 194 unfrosted sugar cookies, and frosting for. Thank you to the students that decorated them. Thanks Robin for arranging this with the teachers schedules at the last minute. The cookies were beautiful and very tasty, too! A perk is that I have to taste every thing first. The "diners" at the Inn enjoyed them very much. If you can do the math...you'll know they got seconds, too!
Read on for comments from our middle school servers:
"The Room at the Inn really proved to me that you shouldn't ever stereotype anyone, especially the homeless or less fortunate. I really enjoyed the experience I had there and I would do it again!"
"It was great to help out and I want to do it again. I wanted to give all the cookies away because I felt bad that these kids might not get any more food for awhile...I really got a lot out of it."
"It made me feel happy to help these others and made me realize what a good life I have!"
"When I went to The Room at the Inn I had no idea what to expect. I have never done anything like that in my life. I have never met those people before and I didn't know them. Now I know what people go through everyday. I can't imagine what its like to not have a bed to sleep in and a roof over my head every night. While I was there I was helping serve beef stew and jello. I thought that the experience was very rewarding. I hope I can go and help again soon."
About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay, Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence for 140 years and has an enrollment of 165 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. The school educates children within the Catholic faith and provides them with opportunities to develop the values, attitudes and skills that will enable them to become vital members of the community. To read all Holy Cross Catholic School blog posts, click here and scroll down.
Snapshot of Religion in America
Survey Reveals a Fluid Situation
By Father John Flynn, LC
ROME, MARCH 2, 2008 (Zenit.org).- More than one-quarter of American adults have left the faith in which they were brought up. This is one of the most important findings of a survey published last Monday by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life.
As always, polls have to be taken with a grain of salt, but the "U.S. Religious Landscape Survey" was based on interviews with more than 35,000 Americans aged 18 and up, giving it greater credibility than most opinion polls. Nevertheless, the Pew Forum did warn that they relied on people's self-description of their religious affiliation, regardless of specific beliefs or if they are active members of their churches.
Not only did the study find that 28% have changed their childhood religion, but if switching among different Protestant denominations is included, a hefty 44% of adults have changed their religious status in one form or another.
Another major finding of the survey was that Protestantism will soon lose its status as the majority religion. A bare 51% now declare they are members of one of the Protestant denominations. Other surveys in the 1970s and 1980s put the Protestant numbers at between 60-65%.
There are three main strands in the Protestant churches. Evangelical Protestant churches account for 26.3% of the adult population and roughly one-half of all Protestants. Mainline Protestant churches represent 18.1% of adults and more than one-third of all Protestants. The historically black Protestant churches can count 6.9% of the adult population and slightly less than one-seventh of all Protestants.
The Pew survey cited research by scholars who have stated that it is the mainline Protestant denominations that have suffered a major decline in the last decades, while evangelical Protestants have grown.
Catholic losses
Another group that has lost large numbers is the Catholic Church. The Pew survey noted that while 31.4% of Americans were raised Catholic, among adults only 23.9% consider themselves still to be Catholics. In fact, the survey calculated that approximately 10% of all Americans are former Catholics.
What has saved Catholic numbers from dropping further is the large number of Catholic immigrants, mostly of Hispanic origin. The Pew document puts at 46% the number of immigrants who are Catholic.
The growing Hispanic presence in the Catholic Church has frequently been commented on in the media. On Feb. 19 the Chicago Tribune reported on the ordination of seven permanent deacons of Hispanic origin in St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish, on Chicago's South Side.
Citing official sources, the article said that out of the more than 600 permanent deacons in the archdiocese of Chicago, about 150 are Hispanic.
The Vietnamese presence in the Catholic Church is also growing. Although the Pew survey did not report on this, a feature article published last April 15 in the Los Angeles Times went so far as to call them the "new Irish."
Asians are only 1% of Catholics in the United States, but they account for 12% of seminary students. In California's Orange County, which is home to the largest Vietnamese community outside Vietnam, already almost 28% of the diocesan priests are Asian, mostly Vietnamese.
The loss of childhood religion was commented on in an article published Dec. 8 in the New York Times. The article reported on research by sociologist Christian Smith, who found that many young adults are prolonging their adolescence. Such behavior includes delaying marriage until after 30, and relying on parental support for a longer time.
Smith also found that those who prolong adolescence are also more likely to leave the faith of their earlier years and to drift free of religion. Often once they marry and have children they will return to religion, but the longer the period of extended adolescence the less likely this becomes.
These two groups also have the lowest retention rates of believers. Only 37% of adults who were raised as Jehovah's Witnesses still identify themselves as such. Just half of all of those who were raised as Buddhists still proclaim the same faith.
Other groups, by contrast, have much lower proportions of members who are converts. Nine out of 10 Hindus were raised Hindu, 89% of Catholics were raised Catholic and 85% of Jews were raised Jewish.
Divergences
One factor standing out in the Pew survey is the danger of making generalizations, given wide differences that exist once factors such as ethnic origin and age are taken into account.
Black adults are the group least likely to be religiously unaffiliated, with only 12% of those surveyed putting themselves in this category. Asians are most likely to be unaffiliated, at 23%.
A majority of Hispanics -- 58% -- identify themselves as Catholic, but 24% are members of Protestant churches.
Age is another factor that accounts for big differences. Among people aged 70 and older, more than half of those who have changed affiliation did so with the same religious tradition, for example, from one Protestant denomination to another. By contrast, among those under age 30, approximately three-quarters of those who have changed affiliation either left one religious tradition for another or for no religion at all.
In fact, a quarter of all adults under age 30 are not affiliated with any particular religion. This compares to just 8% of unaffiliated adults who are 70 and older.
Ethnicity and age make for some interesting combinations within some churches. The vast majority of Catholics -- 85% -- aged 70 and over is white, while 45% of Catholics under 30 are Hispanic.
Another variable is sex, with 16% of men declaring they have no formal religious affiliation, compared to 12.8% of women. As well, 5.5% of men say they are atheist or agnostic, as opposed to 2.6% of women.
The survey also found that 27% of married people are in religiously mixed marriages. If this is extended to include different Protestant denominations, then the percentage of mixed marriages is 37%. Among the major religions, Hindus -- 90% -- and Mormons -- 83% -- are most likely to have a spouse with the same religion. Catholics follow closely at 78%.
The survey also looked at how income, marriage rates, numbers of children and geographical distribution are related to religion. A valuable overview of the state of religion in America today.
Thank you ZENIT!
The Holy Cross Family Blogspot features regular news and information thanks to ZENIT, an international Catholic news agency. If you enjoy ZENIT articles on the Holy Cross Family Blogspot, you can show your support and appreciation by visiting their website and spreading the word. Their web address is: www.zenit.org/.
By Father John Flynn, LC
ROME, MARCH 2, 2008 (Zenit.org).- More than one-quarter of American adults have left the faith in which they were brought up. This is one of the most important findings of a survey published last Monday by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life.
As always, polls have to be taken with a grain of salt, but the "U.S. Religious Landscape Survey" was based on interviews with more than 35,000 Americans aged 18 and up, giving it greater credibility than most opinion polls. Nevertheless, the Pew Forum did warn that they relied on people's self-description of their religious affiliation, regardless of specific beliefs or if they are active members of their churches.
Not only did the study find that 28% have changed their childhood religion, but if switching among different Protestant denominations is included, a hefty 44% of adults have changed their religious status in one form or another.
Another major finding of the survey was that Protestantism will soon lose its status as the majority religion. A bare 51% now declare they are members of one of the Protestant denominations. Other surveys in the 1970s and 1980s put the Protestant numbers at between 60-65%.
There are three main strands in the Protestant churches. Evangelical Protestant churches account for 26.3% of the adult population and roughly one-half of all Protestants. Mainline Protestant churches represent 18.1% of adults and more than one-third of all Protestants. The historically black Protestant churches can count 6.9% of the adult population and slightly less than one-seventh of all Protestants.
The Pew survey cited research by scholars who have stated that it is the mainline Protestant denominations that have suffered a major decline in the last decades, while evangelical Protestants have grown.
Catholic losses
Another group that has lost large numbers is the Catholic Church. The Pew survey noted that while 31.4% of Americans were raised Catholic, among adults only 23.9% consider themselves still to be Catholics. In fact, the survey calculated that approximately 10% of all Americans are former Catholics.
What has saved Catholic numbers from dropping further is the large number of Catholic immigrants, mostly of Hispanic origin. The Pew document puts at 46% the number of immigrants who are Catholic.
The growing Hispanic presence in the Catholic Church has frequently been commented on in the media. On Feb. 19 the Chicago Tribune reported on the ordination of seven permanent deacons of Hispanic origin in St. Nicholas of Tolentine Parish, on Chicago's South Side.
Citing official sources, the article said that out of the more than 600 permanent deacons in the archdiocese of Chicago, about 150 are Hispanic.
The Vietnamese presence in the Catholic Church is also growing. Although the Pew survey did not report on this, a feature article published last April 15 in the Los Angeles Times went so far as to call them the "new Irish."
Asians are only 1% of Catholics in the United States, but they account for 12% of seminary students. In California's Orange County, which is home to the largest Vietnamese community outside Vietnam, already almost 28% of the diocesan priests are Asian, mostly Vietnamese.
Unaffiliated
A category that is notably on the increase is the number of those not affiliated with any religion. According to the Pew survey, 7.3% of the adult population say they were unaffiliated when they were growing up. As adults, however, this increases sharply to 16.1%. All religions are affected by this tendency to lose members in the transition from childhood to adulthood.
Among those who are currently unaffiliated with any particular religion, 44% were raised Protestant and 27% were raised Catholic.
A category that is notably on the increase is the number of those not affiliated with any religion. According to the Pew survey, 7.3% of the adult population say they were unaffiliated when they were growing up. As adults, however, this increases sharply to 16.1%. All religions are affected by this tendency to lose members in the transition from childhood to adulthood.
Among those who are currently unaffiliated with any particular religion, 44% were raised Protestant and 27% were raised Catholic.
The loss of childhood religion was commented on in an article published Dec. 8 in the New York Times. The article reported on research by sociologist Christian Smith, who found that many young adults are prolonging their adolescence. Such behavior includes delaying marriage until after 30, and relying on parental support for a longer time.
Smith also found that those who prolong adolescence are also more likely to leave the faith of their earlier years and to drift free of religion. Often once they marry and have children they will return to religion, but the longer the period of extended adolescence the less likely this becomes.
The Pew survey also looked at which religions are more heavily made up of people who have switched beliefs. Buddhists, Jehovah's Witnesses, Unitarians and members of New Age groups are among those with large numbers of members who have come from other backgrounds.
For example, no less than two-thirds of Jehovah's Witnesses were raised in some other faith or were not affiliated with any particular religion as a child. This rises to nearly three-quarters for Buddhists.
These two groups also have the lowest retention rates of believers. Only 37% of adults who were raised as Jehovah's Witnesses still identify themselves as such. Just half of all of those who were raised as Buddhists still proclaim the same faith.
Other groups, by contrast, have much lower proportions of members who are converts. Nine out of 10 Hindus were raised Hindu, 89% of Catholics were raised Catholic and 85% of Jews were raised Jewish.
Divergences
One factor standing out in the Pew survey is the danger of making generalizations, given wide differences that exist once factors such as ethnic origin and age are taken into account.
For example, 35% of Latinos and 37% of Asians report having changed their religious affiliation from that in which they were raised. By contrast the rates for blacks -- 42% -- and whites -- 45% -- is higher.
Black adults are the group least likely to be religiously unaffiliated, with only 12% of those surveyed putting themselves in this category. Asians are most likely to be unaffiliated, at 23%.
A majority of Hispanics -- 58% -- identify themselves as Catholic, but 24% are members of Protestant churches.
Age is another factor that accounts for big differences. Among people aged 70 and older, more than half of those who have changed affiliation did so with the same religious tradition, for example, from one Protestant denomination to another. By contrast, among those under age 30, approximately three-quarters of those who have changed affiliation either left one religious tradition for another or for no religion at all.
In fact, a quarter of all adults under age 30 are not affiliated with any particular religion. This compares to just 8% of unaffiliated adults who are 70 and older.
Age counts
Mainline Protestant churches are particularly affected by an aging membership with 51% at age 50 and older. This compares to 40% in the Catholic Church. Overall, in the United States 41% of adults are in this age category.
Mainline Protestant churches are particularly affected by an aging membership with 51% at age 50 and older. This compares to 40% in the Catholic Church. Overall, in the United States 41% of adults are in this age category.
Ethnicity and age make for some interesting combinations within some churches. The vast majority of Catholics -- 85% -- aged 70 and over is white, while 45% of Catholics under 30 are Hispanic.
Another variable is sex, with 16% of men declaring they have no formal religious affiliation, compared to 12.8% of women. As well, 5.5% of men say they are atheist or agnostic, as opposed to 2.6% of women.
The survey also found that 27% of married people are in religiously mixed marriages. If this is extended to include different Protestant denominations, then the percentage of mixed marriages is 37%. Among the major religions, Hindus -- 90% -- and Mormons -- 83% -- are most likely to have a spouse with the same religion. Catholics follow closely at 78%.
The survey also looked at how income, marriage rates, numbers of children and geographical distribution are related to religion. A valuable overview of the state of religion in America today.
© Innovative Media, Inc.
Reprinting ZENIT's articles requires written permission from the editor.
Reprinting ZENIT's articles requires written permission from the editor.
Thank you ZENIT!
The Holy Cross Family Blogspot features regular news and information thanks to ZENIT, an international Catholic news agency. If you enjoy ZENIT articles on the Holy Cross Family Blogspot, you can show your support and appreciation by visiting their website and spreading the word. Their web address is: www.zenit.org/.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
What's Happening in the Faith Formation Program?
Faith Formation Schedule
WEDNESDAY, March 5
Grades 2 - 6: 5:30 - 6:30pm
Grades 7 - 10: 6:45 - 8:00pm
SUNDAY, March 9
"I Am Special" Pre-School & Gr. 1: 10:00-11:00am (during Mass)
First Communion Parent/Child Meeting
Monday, March 3, 6:30 - 8pm - Holy Cross Gym
This is a required meeting for all 2nd graders in our day school and Faith Formation Program. At least one parent MUST accompany their child.
About Holy Cross Faith Formation
All children in the Holy Cross Parish Family have the right and opportunity to be educated in their faith. Children and young adults often have questions about God. The Holy Cross Parish Faith Formation program works with parents to answer these questions and to bring our young people into a closer relationship with God; a relationship which motivates them to make good moral decisions in order to live Christ-like lives.
To see Faith Formation photos, click on the photo albums underneath Faith Formation Contact Information on the right hand side of the blog. To read all Faith Formation blog posts, click here.
WEDNESDAY, March 5
Grades 2 - 6: 5:30 - 6:30pm
Grades 7 - 10: 6:45 - 8:00pm
SUNDAY, March 9
"I Am Special" Pre-School & Gr. 1: 10:00-11:00am (during Mass)
First Communion Parent/Child Meeting
Monday, March 3, 6:30 - 8pm - Holy Cross Gym
This is a required meeting for all 2nd graders in our day school and Faith Formation Program. At least one parent MUST accompany their child.
About Holy Cross Faith Formation
All children in the Holy Cross Parish Family have the right and opportunity to be educated in their faith. Children and young adults often have questions about God. The Holy Cross Parish Faith Formation program works with parents to answer these questions and to bring our young people into a closer relationship with God; a relationship which motivates them to make good moral decisions in order to live Christ-like lives.
To see Faith Formation photos, click on the photo albums underneath Faith Formation Contact Information on the right hand side of the blog. To read all Faith Formation blog posts, click here.
Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship Corner
I shared my TIME and TALENT by:
- I read a book for the family to enjoy.
- I helped take care of our new baby.
- I used good sportsmanship playing basketball.
- I helped clean our house.
- I babysat for my sister Julia.
- I made a special card for Gioia and her family.
Total TREASURE shared: $8.09
- I read a book for the family to enjoy.
- I helped take care of our new baby.
- I used good sportsmanship playing basketball.
- I helped clean our house.
- I babysat for my sister Julia.
- I made a special card for Gioia and her family.
Total TREASURE shared: $8.09
Our Holy Cross Parish Youth Stewardship program is a tool available for us to help teach the basics of stewardship to our youth. Stewardship is a decision we make to live as Christians and to thank God for all of His blessings by helping to take care of the church and the world on behalf of God. Stewardship is often touched upon throughout the Bible and in our faith formation process; the Youth Stewardship Program helps bring all of these teachings together.
For more information about Holy Cross Faith Formation, please check out the links located on the right hand side of the blog.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
March 1/2 from the Pastor's Desk...
My dear Parishioners,
This past Wednesday, February 27, 40 children in our community received God's forgiveness for the first time in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The children enjoyed an evening retreat experience and then were joined by their families and the rest of our Holy Cross family during our Lenten Penance Service at 7:00 PM. We thank you parents for the wonderful model that you are of the unconditional love and forgiveness of God to your children.
Please take note that this past week the long-awaited windows for the Rectory have been installed. A big thank you to those participated in the Advancing the Mission campaign. The new windows are being paid for by funds raised from this campaign. I know that the new windows will save us a great deal in Rectory energy costs. The next project from ATM funds will be replacing the small school windows that are encased in glass block. These have been a real problem for many years, and the new windows again will be energy efficient and save costs.
Remember that for this Lenten season, we CARE.
Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom
This past Wednesday, February 27, 40 children in our community received God's forgiveness for the first time in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The children enjoyed an evening retreat experience and then were joined by their families and the rest of our Holy Cross family during our Lenten Penance Service at 7:00 PM. We thank you parents for the wonderful model that you are of the unconditional love and forgiveness of God to your children.
Please take note that this past week the long-awaited windows for the Rectory have been installed. A big thank you to those participated in the Advancing the Mission campaign. The new windows are being paid for by funds raised from this campaign. I know that the new windows will save us a great deal in Rectory energy costs. The next project from ATM funds will be replacing the small school windows that are encased in glass block. These have been a real problem for many years, and the new windows again will be energy efficient and save costs.
Remember that for this Lenten season, we CARE.
Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom
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