Holy Cross Family of Green Bay, Wisconsin

There’s an explosion of learning at Holy Cross Catholic School…

2012-01-18T08:40:00.003-06:00

...but we always handle with CARE
Registration for next year begins January 29!
· 4 yr-old Kindergarten with 2, 3 and 5 day options
· Kindergarten—8th grade

Learn more about us at our Open House!
Sunday, January 29
9 AM -Noon: Pancake & Porkie Breakfast fundraiser for ipads for our 4K classroom.
9 AM-10 AM: Meet the teachers in their classrooms.
10 AM: Student-led Mass at Holy Cross Parish.
11 AM: Enjoy pancake and porkies with the teachers.

Thursday, February 9
Join us for our School Day Open House. Parents and their children will be able to drop in and see what a typical school day is like here at HCCS any time between 8:30 AM and 2:30 PM.

Schedule a visiting day!
If those times don’t work with your schedule, call us to schedule a visit at your convenience. Call 920.468.0625 or e-mail czehms@gracesystem.org

About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay at the historic crossroads of Church and Bay Settlement Roads, Holy Cross Catholic School is the point at which faith, community and education converge. Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence since 1868 and has an enrollment of nearly 200 students in grades 4K to 8th grade. Learn more by visiting http://www.holycrossfamily.org/.

About GRACE
The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) System is the largest Catholic school system in Wisconsin. A collaborative school ministry of the 23 Green Bay area Catholic parishes, GRACE was formed in 2008 to provide affordable, high quality Catholic early childhood, elementary and middle-school education. It serves 2728 students at ten neighborhood school sites located throughout the Green Bay area. Over 125 students of other faith denominations attend the GRACE schools. The GRACE system employs over 250 people with a total annual community investment of $10.5 million. The system has just completed a three-year planning and consolidation process that involved the 23 faith communities, parents and staff. Learn more about GRACE at http://www.gracesystem.org/.

May Perpetual Light Shine Upon Him

2012-01-17T14:57:00.003-06:00

Cyril M. “Cy” Van Laanen, 80, of New Franken, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 16, 2012 due to a stroke. He was born on June 12, 1931 to the late Earl and Maryleen (Liebergen) Van Laanen. He married Jacqueline Tilot on October 9, 1954 at St. Huberts in Sugarbush. He served in the National Guard. Cy was a truck driver for 30 years until his retirement. He was currently serving as a supervisor for the town of Scott. Cy was a lifelong member of Holy Cross Parish. He loved to fish and spend time woodworking in his shop.

Survivors included his loving wife of 57 years, Jackie Van Laanen; five children: Steven (Mary Beth) Van Laanen, Tom (Louann) Van Laanen, Mary (John) Willemon, Kathy (Gary) Lemens, Jean (Gene) Lannoye; 19 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild; 1 brother, Ambrose “Sonny” (Harriet) Van Laanen; 2 sisters-in-law and 3 brothers-in-law: Gerald (Millie) Tilot, Arlene (Ray) Phillips, Kenny (Shirley) Tilot, Maurice (Rita) Tilot and Sally (Alan) Borley.

He was preceded in death by brother-in-law, Milton Greatens; mother and father-in-law, Mary and William Tilot.

Friends may call at the Proko-Wall Funeral Home, 1630 E. Mason St., Wednesday from 3 to 8 P.M. Parish Wake Service 7 P.M. at the funeral home. Visitation will continue on Thursday from 10 to 11 A.M. at Holy Cross Parish, 3009 Bay Settlement Rd. Mass of Christian Burial 11 am at the church with Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O. Praem officiating. Entombment at Shrine of the Good Shepherd Mausoleum. Online condolences may be sent to Cyril’s family at http://www.prokowall.com/.

The family would like to thank the staff at Bellin Hospital for all their loving care and compassion at his time of need.

Homily for Sunday, January 15, 2012: Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

2012-01-16T20:13:00.001-06:00

This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem for January 15, 2012. (Feedblitz readers may need to go to the www.holycrossfamily.blogspot.com to listen to the homily.)

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January 15: From the Pastor's Desk...

2012-01-15T19:43:00.003-06:00

My Dear Parishioners,

We now begin our annual trip through Ordinary Time, but before we leave Christmas behind, I want to share a story with you. The theme of my Christmas homily this year was the statement that “Christmas is a time for Miracles” and I encouraged you to look for yours. Little did I know that I, too, would have a Christmas miracle.

You may remember that I had had a gold chain around my neck on which was a gold Celtic cross and my tiny baby ring that was given to me on the day of my Baptism by my Godparents back in the year 1937. I cherished both of these items. About a year and a half ago, I discovered one afternoon that my gold chain was no longer around my neck and it, the cross, and the ring were gone. I believed that I had probably lost it because the chain broke while I was out doing some shopping. I called stores, but no one had turned in a chain, cross, or tiny ring. The cross was especially precious to me because it was a gift from my best friend and priest mentor, Fr. Bob Sliben (now deceased).

After a while, I accepted the fact that all three were gone, lost, and consigned to my memory. On Friday, January 6th, the Feast of the Epiphany (celebrated by the church last weekend), I was returning from retreat at the Abbey. While I was away some work was done on my bathroom in the rectory – painting, installation of a new medicine cabinet, etc. Mary Neckuty was putting the bathroom back together for me and accidentally dropped brackets for the cabinet shelves behind the radiator cover. She got some help and they removed the cover. In the process of cleaning behind the radiator, she saw something, reached for it, and discovered it was my long lost chain, cross, and ring. When I entered the rectory, they were waiting for me in Lori’s office and I immediately thought something had happened but they asked me to sit down, hold out my hand, and Mary placed the chain, cross, and ring in my palm. Tears came to my eyes and we all smiled. On the feast of what is commonly called “Little Christmas” I received my “CHRISTMAS MIRACLE.”

Please remember that our school’s 8th grade class is sponsoring their Annual Spaghetti Dinner this coming Saturday, January 21st. Kindly support their fundraising project which will enable them to take their 8th grade class trip this Spring. Also please mark your calendars that “Catholic Schools Week” begins Sunday, January 29th, and continues throughout the week. More information is available in this week’s bulletin and also next week’s. Take pride that we here at Holy Cross have an outstanding School!

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 1.15.12 Church Bulletin

Homily for Sunday, December 25: Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas)

2011-12-29T21:04:00.001-06:00

This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem for Sunday, December 25, the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas). (Feedblitz readers may need to go to the www.holycrossfamily.blogspot.com to listen to the homily.)

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May Perpetual Light Shine Upon Her

2011-12-28T05:53:00.000-06:00

Evelyn D. Reynen, 96, Green Bay, died peacefully at a local nursing home on Sunday, December 25, 2011, surrounded by her family. Born on October 15, 1915, in Dyckesville, she is the daughter of the late Henry and Lucy (Boulanger) Du Bois. She was a 1933 graduate of Green Bay East High School. On September 28, 1938, she married Joseph Reynen, and he preceded her in death on April 16, 1978. Evelyn was a long-time member of Holy Cross Church, where she was involved with the Altar Society, as well as assisting with many parish picnics. She was a member of the Town of Scott Historical Society. Evelyn had an interest in genealogy and scrapbooking.

Evelyn is survived by two daughters and two sons-in-law, Barbara (Dale) Wright, Amberg, and Nancy (George) Hoppa, Fish Creek; six grandchildren, Kris Wright, Alan Wright, Kim Wright, Kari Wright, Scott (Karen) Hoppa, and Tracy Hoppa; and five great grandchildren, Tiarra Pagel, Danielle Wright, Amanda Wright, Evan Wright, and Bailey Hoppa; and nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and one sister and brother-in-law, Eunice and John Fuller.

Visitation at Holy Cross Church-Bay Settlement, 3009 Bay Settlement Road, Tuesday (December 27, 2011) from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral. Funeral Mass 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, December 27, 2011, at the church with Rev. Tom Hagendorf, O.Praem officiating. Entombment at Shrine of the Good Shepherd Mausoleum. MALCORE (East) Funeral Home is assisting the family with funeral arrangements, 432-5579.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the entire staff at Grancare Nursing Home, especially Cheryl (Pulaski), Shannon, and Melissa.

This week at Holy Cross Parish, December 26 - January 1

2011-12-27T19:58:00.003-06:00

Monday, December 26
NO MASS

Tuesday, December 27
NO MASS

Wednesday, December 28
NO MASS

Thursday, December 29
NO MASS

Friday, December 30
9:00 am Deceased Members of the Katers and VanDonsel Families

Saturday, December 31
4:00 pm Betty Torborg

Sunday, January 1
8:00 am Norbert Skaletski, William & Leona Jacobs
Fr. Bill Jacobs, Presider
10:00 am Holy Cross Parish Family

December 25: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-12-27T19:48:00.003-06:00

My Dear Parishioners,

I WISH ALL OF YOU A BLESSED CHRISTMAS, AND MAY THE SPIRIT AND JOY OF THIS FEAST FILL YOUR HEARTS AND YOUR HOME!

A warm word of welcome and joy to all who come to Holy Cross on this Christmas Eve and Christmas Day to celebrate the joy and peace of this special night and day. We welcome all of our family and friends, college students, those who have traveled from near and far to come here to celebrate Mass and to be with family and friends.

I wish you the peace, joy and hope which are so much a part of this special eve and day. Let the Gospel message of the birth of Christ take root in your heart, let the sound of the Christmas carols bring peace to your life, and finally may the peace and joy of God’s special grace take root in your hearts.

Please remember that the parish office will be closed this entire week so that all might enjoy the peace and relaxation that this holiday offers. I, myself, am looking forward to simply relaxing and taking it easy. Note that there will be no weekday Masses on Wednesday and Thursday, but there will be a special Mass at 9 am on Friday, the Feast of the Holy Family. Next weekend, our Mass on Saturday will be our regular schedule, Mass at 4 pm on New Year’s Eve and Masses on New Year’s Day will be at 8 am and 10 am. I also wish all of you a very happy and hopefully prosperous New Year.

Please remember that I will be gone from the parish the week after New Year’s. I will be joining my Norbertine community for our annual spiritual retreat at St. Norbert Abbey. Also remember that, should you have an emergency or a serious need, I am available through my cell phone, so
please do not hesitate to call (920)619-7844. Know that I shall keep you, your families, and your needs in my thoughts and prayers while I am on retreat and I ask you to do the same for me, especially as we embark on a new year.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 12.25.11 Church Bulletin

May Perpetual Light Shine Upon Her

2011-12-26T05:45:00.001-06:00

Sheila LaPlant, 65, Iron Mountain, MI, formerly of Green Bay, WI, passed away peacefully, Monday, December 26, 2011, at a local hospital surrounded by her family after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Born in Green Bay, December 13, 1946, to the late Clifford and Helen (Compton) Martell. Sheila graduated from Southwest High School in 1964. She worked as a Domestic Violence Advocate at the Caring House Shelter. Sheila loved times spent with her children and grandchildren. She enjoyed the Green Bay Packers, and traveling.

Sheila is survived by her three children, Todd and Misty LaPlant, Rob LaPlant, and Sara and John Process of Green Bay; 3 grandchildren, Samantha, James Robert, and John, Jr.; sister and brother-in-law, Sandy and Ted Mendini of Iron Mountain, MI; other relatives and friends; special friend, Kay.

She is preceded in death by her parents; infant brother, Donald Joseph Martell.

Visitation at Malcore (East) Funeral Home, University Ave. at Baird Street, Friday (12/30) from 9:00 A.M. until the time that the funeral procession leaves for the Funeral Mass at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Bay Settlement, 11:00 A.M. with the Rev. Tom Hagendorf, O.Praem. officiating. Burial at Holy Cross Cemetery.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of Marquette Oncology, Iron Mountain, MI. and Bellin Hospital Team for all of the care provided to Sheila during this difficult time.

Homily for Sunday, December 18: Fourth Sunday of Advent

2011-12-20T06:09:00.000-06:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem for Sunday, December 18, the fourth Sunday of Advent

This week at Holy Cross Parish, December 19 - 25

2011-12-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

Monday, December 19
NO MASS

Tuesday, December 20
NO MASS

Wednesday, December 21
8:00 am Roger Wypyszynski

Thursday, December 22
8:00 am VanLaanen & Kapalin Families
8:30 am CHURCH CLEANING—HELP NEEDED AND APPRECIATED

Friday, December 23
8:00 am Bernice Katers

Saturday, December 24
4:00 pm Janice & Miles Hauke
6:30 pm Holy Cross Parish Family
10:30 pm Henry & Clara Jacobs and Dave Woller

Sunday, December 25
9:00 am Holy Cross Parish Family

December 18: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-12-18T08:38:00.000-06:00

My Dear Parishioners,

Please remember that after the 10 am Mass this weekend we will be decorating our church for the Christmas holidays. If you are able to give some of your time and talent, please come and help us prepare for this special holiday. Jan and Jeff Walton are the chair people for decorating our holy space and they have some beautiful plans in place. Why not take some time and help those plans become a reality. Holy Cross is known for being one of the most beautifully decorated churches in our area for the high holy days of Christmas and Easter. Come, help out and get into the Christmas spirit.

This past Tuesday and Wednesday evenings our school children presented their annual Christmas concert and our Faith Formation children presented their annual Christmas play. Congratulations to all involved for both of these annual events for a job well done. Both of these events can help put us into the beautiful Christmas spirit.

Please remember Bill Liebergen, a long-time parishioner and usher at the Sunday 10 am Mass for many, many years, who died last Monday as a result of cancer. Last Sunday after the 10 am Mass, I went to his home to celebrate with him, his family and some close friends the “Sacrament of Anointing” at which time we prayed to God for Bill, commended him into the hands of God and celebrated his life in our midst. Bill died the next morning, surrounded by his family. Bill’s Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated here at Holy Cross this past Friday. Kindly hold Bill in prayer
along with his children and family who will deeply mourn his passing to new and eternal life. Bill was a man of deep faith and was well prepared to meet his Maker. May he rest in peace.

As we prepare during this final week before Christmas, I invite you to take time, pause, and let the true spirit of Christmas enter your heart with its seasonal JOY, PEACE, HOPE and LOVE.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 12.18.11 Church Bulletin

May Perpetual Light Shine Upon Him

2011-12-17T20:45:00.000-06:00

William R. “Bill/Bud” Liebergen, Jr., 85, Bay Settlement resident, passed away Monday, Dec. 12, 2011, after a courageous battle with cancer, at home, surrounded by his family. He was born Sept. 22, 1926 in Hurley, WI to the late William Sr. and Frances ( O’Keefe) Liebergen. Bill proudly served the country in the U.S. Navy during World War II. On Oct. 16, 1948 he married Dolores (Loos) at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Green Bay. She preceded him in death on Aug. 14, 2005. Bill worked for the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier, retiring in 1984. However, he never stopped working. If you needed something fixed, a piece of advice, or someone to listen, he was always there. Bill was known by family and friends as one of the most kind, honest and giving individuals As a loving father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother and friend, he will be truly missed.

Survivors include his children, Patrick (Kathy) Liebergen, Carol DeGrave (Leon Kaiver), Kay Liebergen; Grandchildren, Jesse (Theresa) DeGrave, Christopher (Sara) Liebergen, Justin (Roberta) Liebergen; Great Grandchildren, Benjamin DeGrave, Chelsey DeGrave, William DeGrave. He is also survived by his siblings, Patsy Atkinson, Norma Vande Walle, David Liebergen, and James Liebergen.

In addition to his spouse and parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Paul Liebergen, and two sisters, Rosemary Tronnes and Doris Devroy.

Friends may call at Proko-Wall Funeral Home, 1630 E. Mason Street on Thursday, December 15, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Parish wake service at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Friday, December 16, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, Bay Settlement from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Funeral Mass 11:00 a.m. at the church with Rev. Tom Hagendorf, O.Praem. officiating. Entombment in the Shrine of the Good Shepherd Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in William’s name.

Alumni newsletter published by Holy Cross Catholic School

2011-12-12T16:21:00.005-06:00

Holy Cross Catholic School has published the first alumni newsletter!

You can view an electronic copy online at: Alumni Newsletter Fall, 2011.

Are you an alumnus? Please consider sending us your contact information and an update! E-mail czehms@gracesystem.org or call 920.468.0625.

About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay at the historic crossroads of Church and Bay Settlement Roads, Holy Cross Catholic School is the point at which faith, community and education converge. Holy Cross Catholic School has been in existence since 1868 and has an enrollment of nearly 200 students in grades 4K to 8th grade. Learn more at www.holycrossfamily.org

About GRACE
The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) System is the largest Catholic school system in Wisconsin. A collaborative school ministry of the 23 Green Bay area Catholic parishes, GRACE was formed in 2008 to provide affordable, high quality Catholic early childhood, elementary and middle-school education. It serves 2728 students at ten neighborhood school sites located throughout the Green Bay area. Over 125 students of other faith denominations attend the GRACE schools. The GRACE system employs over 250 people with a total annual community investment of $10.5 million. The system has just completed a three-year planning and consolidation process that involved the 23 faith communities, parents and staff. Learn more about GRACE at www.gracesystem.org.

December 11: From the Pastor's Desk ...

2011-12-09T12:43:00.002-06:00

My Dear Parishioners,

Those who know me realize that I have an entire collection of sayings, many in Latin, that I frequently use in conversations. For example ,“tempus fugit” which means time flies bye, “Oremus pro invicem” = let us pray for one another, “apud nos” = just between us, and many, many more. One of my favorites, however, is the expression “Deus Providebit” which means “God will provide.” Last week when Lori gave me the bill for the church bell restoration she was exasperated because there was no way we could afford it at this time, given our financial condition. My response to her was “Deus Providebit.” Last weekend, at the end of each Mass, I informed you of the death of the church bell mechanism and asked for your help. After the 10 am Mass, some friends of mine from DePere came up to me and said, “Now we know why God had us come to Mass at Holy Cross this Sunday; we will take care of the restoration of your church bells.” A good example of “Deus Providebit.” Monday morning Lori gave the company the go ahead to replace the bell ringing mechanism. There is a good chance that they will be operational for Christmas - “Deus Providebit.”

A thank you is in order to parishioners Dave and Mary Neckuty who have sponsored the purchase of the two new “Roman Missals” and the laminated cards in the pews in memory of their mothers, Eleanor R. Neckuty/Herriges and Agnes G. Johann. We will hold them in prayer each time we offer the Eucharist in our church. Thank you both for these important gifts.

Please remember that this weekend the 2nd collection is for the retired priests, sisters, and brothers who have served the American church so very well for so many years, and now in their old age, are in need of our continued support and care. Please be generous, and in the event you are not prepared to offer anything this weekend, you can always send an envelope in to the office marked “Retirement Fund for Religious.”

Kindly also keep in mind the hungry in our midst. There are so many this time of the year and with the state of unemployment and the poor economy, their number continues to grow. If each of us only gave one non-perishable food item, there would be so very much to bring to St. Pat’s Pantry.

Last but not least, please remember your Parish this Christmas by making a special “Christmas Gift” to help it during these difficult economic times.

Oremus pro invicem,

Fr. Tom

Related Link: 12.11.11 Church bulletin

Homily for Sunday, December 4: Second Sunday of Advent

2011-12-08T08:16:00.000-06:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Sunday, December 4, 2011.

December 4 - From the Pastor's Desk ...

2011-12-04T14:41:00.001-06:00

My Dear Parishioners,

Congratulations to David Pietrek and Crystal Jolly, parishioners who were joined as husband and wife by the Sacrament of Matrimony here at Holy Cross in a Nuptial Mass this Saturday afternoon. I invite you to join with me in holding them in prayer as they begin a lifelong journey of becoming one in heart, mind, and love in Christ Jesus.

Congratulations are also due to our young children who are preparing for their First Holy Communion this Spring as they received the Sacrament of Reconciliation last week at our Advent service. A special thank you to our teachers, catechists, principal, and faith formation coordinator who work with our children during this year to make certain that our children are well prepared to receive these sacraments. One ingredient of the program is that our children and their family attend our weekly Eucharist and learn to pray with us at Mass. Keep in prayer:
Abbigail Anderson Carlene Goral Ashley Raduenz Jason Stahl
Makenzie Anderson Maryssa Jaeckels Taylor Raduenz Olivia Stefl
Soo-Yin Brown Halle Johnson Beau Rass Aidan Slattery
Landon Browne Rebecca Kroll Erik Sack Nolan Stormer
AnnaBelle Davis Jacob Limoni John Sack Joseph Strohmeyer
Gregory Delain Jackson Nichol Sophia Schauer Carolyn Vandrisse
Mallory Eisenreich William Morrissey Alex Schwitzer Jenna Zehms
Evan Goral Leila Quass Jared Stahl

Please note that next weekend we will be taking up an annual special collection to support our retired religious sisters, brothers, and priests. I remember the dedication of the Sisters of Mercy of Merion, PA, who educated me in my Catholic faith. Envelopes for this collection are in this week’s bulletin; please be as generous as you can knowing that we are still the recipients of their prayers.

Thank you once again to Jan and Jeff Walton for making and setting up our beautiful Advent Wreath. Jeff and Jan will also be leading us in decorating our Church for Christmas. Why not consider helping? More information will be forthcoming.

I thought that our introduction of the New Roman Missal went very well last week. I think I made most of the mistakes. Please be patient, understanding, and kindly use the laminated cards, which are in the hymnals and pews, in learning the changes in the prayers. Kindly re-insert the cards into the hymnals at the end of each Mass or leave them in the pews so they will be available at all the Masses.

Please also remember that we are reaching out to St. Pat’s Pantry this Advent. They especially need healthy juices. It is good for us to feed the hungry. Please remember and help.

I was just informed that after many years of service to our parish, the bell system in our tower must be replaced at a cost of approximately $4,000. If there is anyone who would like to make a donation to this project, a memorial plaque will be placed in a prominent place in the church to recognize the donor(s).

Oremus pro invicem,

Fr. Tom

Related Link: 12-4-11 Bulletin

Advent in Two Minutes

2011-11-29T19:38:00.002-06:00

Not quite sure about the relationship between Advent and Christmas? Check out Busted Halo's two-minute video that describes why we celebrate Advent and wait to celebrate Christmas. www.bustedhalo.com

Nov. 20 - From the Pastor's Desk ...

2011-11-29T14:08:00.001-06:00

My Dear Parishioners,

First of all I want to wish all of you a Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving Day and holiday. Keep in mind that Mass on Thanksgiving Day is at 9 am. Why not begin this special holiday and the beginning of the Advent/Christmas season by coming to Mass and giving thanks for all the blessings you and we have. Always remember that everything we have, and I mean everything, is GIFT. We come into this world with absolutely nothing and can take nothing with us when we leave, and so all we have is gift, and for all the gifts we pause and give thanks.

Keep in mind that the parish office will close for the holiday on Wednesday at noon and will be closed until 8:30 am on Monday, November 28th. Also please note that I am taking a day off on Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, and there will be no 8 am Mass that day.

As announced in last week’s bulletin, I am having out-of-town guests for the Thanksgiving holiday – Dr. George Cunningham and his wife, Pat, and his sister, Karen, will be coming from Wilmington, Delaware, and will be here until Monday, November 28th. Should you see them, kindly give them a warm Holy Cross welcome.

For the past few months we have been preparing for the transition in our Mass and liturgy to the New Edition of the Roman Missal which will take place next weekend, November 26th and 27th. I feel that we as a parish are well prepared for this move, but I ask your patience and understanding and know that it will take us time to get used to the new language and new form of prayers. Please use the laminated cards, which contain all the changes you need to incorporate into your prayers printed in bold type. The hymnals also have all the new texts. The readings from the Scripture will remain the same; no changes with them. Also, I will give you directions for those times when we are to kneel or stand that are different from what we are used to doing.

Please mark your calendars for Wednesday, November 30th, because that is the date for our Advent celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Services will be at 1 pm and 7 pm in the evening. At the 7 pm service, our young children who have been preparing for First Holy Communion will make their First Reconciliation. If you have not been to confession for a long time, please consider taking advantage of this grace-filled time – there will be a number of visiting priests at each service. Is God calling you to come to confession?

Oremus pro invicem,

Fr. Tom

Nov. 27 - From the Pastor's Desk

2011-11-29T14:01:00.001-06:00

My Dear Parishioners,

I do hope that all of you had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday and that all of our hunters found relaxation and joy in their annual excursion North, which I hope was successful, exciting, and resulted in your bagging a significant prized trophy.

This weekend we begin a new Liturgical year and initiate our use of the new edition of the Roman Missal. I ask your patience and understanding as we implement the necessary changes in the way and manner in which we celebrate the Mass. Hopefully the homilies and other preparation which we have employed will make the transition easier and even help improve the quality of our prayer.

A few weeks ago I informed you that the cross in our Pioneer Cemetery had fallen, not because of vandalism but because of age and decay on the part of the wood. One of our young adults, Ben Janquart, is preparing to become an Eagle Scout and has taken the cross’ replacement as his Eagle Scout project. His goal is to erect a cross similar to the one that is in the front of the church. If anyone has any information about the construction of that cross (i.e., its braces, foundation, type of wood, etc.) it would be deeply appreciated if you would speak with him and share your knowledge. We are hoping to have the cross in place and ready for a special blessing and re-dedication sometime in the Spring. If you would like to contribute to this project, kindly put your offering in an envelope marked “Pioneer Cemetery Cross”.

Elderly Catholic Sisters, brothers, and religious order priests need your help. For years, these selfless women and men minister for little, if any, compensation – educating the young, nursing the sick, and promoting peace and justice. Their sacrifices now leave a substantial gap in retirement savings. Your gift to the “Retirement Fund for Religious” provides vital funding for prescription medications, nursing care, and more. Please “Share in the Care” and give to those who have given a lifetime of service to the American Church. This collection will be taken up on Saturday and Sunday, December 10th & 11th.

Please remember that our ADVENT RECONCILIATION SERVICE (confession) will be held this Wednesday at 1 pm and 7 pm in the evening. I have a number of visiting priests coming in to help, and so this is a good opportunity for you to go to confession, especially if it has been a long, long time since your last confession.

We had recently informed you that we had successfully paid off our 2011 Bishop’s Appeal Assessment through your generosity in the second collections. We received a call last week from Josh Diedrich of the Bishop’s Appeal office at the Diocese (272-8197) informing us that the Diocese had made an error and we still owed another $1,500. We will not resume second collections; however, if you are financially able to make a contribution to help retire this debt, please mark it 2011 Bishop’s Appeal and drop it in the collection or mail it to the parish office.

Oremus pro invicem,

Fr. Tom

ST. CATHERINE’S BOOK AND GIFT STORE: NEW HOURS…NEW MISSION…

2011-11-29T08:15:00.001-06:00

Join us in celebrating Advent as we await the
Coming of our Our Lord Jesus
At our Open House.

December 5 – 10, 2011

As a THANK YOU for your patience during this time of transition, enjoy 20% discount on all Nativity Sets in stock and in-store specials each day.

Mon., Dec. 5: Everyday Prayers for Children by Lois Rock $5.00
10% discount on all children’s books*

Tues., Dec. 6: FEAST of ST. NICHOLAS
10% discount on entire purchase*

Wed., Dec. 7: Poetry of Pope John Paul II Roman Triptych $5.00
10% discount on all books*

Thurs., Dec. 8: Retreat with C. S. Lewis by Bp. Morneau $5.00
10% discount on all rosaries*

Fri., Dec. 9: Retreat with Jessica Powers by Bp. Morneau $5.00
10% discount on all statues*

Sat., Dec. 10: Francis of Assisi Activities & Coloring Fun $5.00
10% discount on all music*

*In-Stock items only

ST. CATHERINE’S BOOK AND GIFT STORE
131 S. Madison Street
Green Bay, WI 54301
920-432-0078
http://www.stcatherinebookshop.com/

HOURS: Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Homily for Sunday, November 27: First Sunday of Advent

2011-11-28T19:31:00.000-06:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Sunday, November 27, 2011.

This Week at Holy Cross Parish, November 28 - December 4

2011-11-27T18:21:00.000-06:00

Monday, November 28
NO MASS

Tuesday, November 29
NO MASS

Wednesday, November 30
8:00 am Christie Nooyen
1 and 7 pm Reconciliation Services

Thursday, December 1
8:00 am OPEN

Friday, December 2
8:00 am John Kennedy

Saturday, December 3
1:00 pm Wedding - Crystal Jolly & David Pietrek
4:00 pm Judy & Debbie Tillmann

Sunday, December 4
8:00 am Holy Cross Parish Family
10:00 am Bernadette & Orville VanLieshout

Pick up sweet treats for Christmas at the Cookie Walk!

2011-11-22T15:53:00.003-06:00

The families of Holy Cross Athletes are sponsoring a Cookie Walk.

A Cookie Walk is an elegant display of exceptionally yummy Christmas goodies (from cutouts to Bourbon balls and everything in between). You can walk around the tables, grab one of our boxes and fill it with any combination you choose to purchase for your families and guests this holiday season. You pay by the pound.

This wonderful event is Friday, Dec. 9, after school until 6:00 and again on Saturday, Dec. 10, from 8-11:00. Plan on stopping in to see what we have!!

Holy Cross Athletics
The mission of Holy Cross Athletics is to provide the opportunity for our children to learn new skills, be part of a team, to have fun, and to make new friends in competition against themselves and other schools in our community.The Holy Cross Athletic Program offers soccer, basketball and track to boys and girls in grades five through eight. All children of registered parishioners are welcome to play on Holy Cross athletic teams.

This Week at Holy Cross Parish, November 21 - 27

2011-11-20T18:19:00.001-06:00

Monday, November 21
NO MASS

Tuesday, November 22
NO MASS

Wednesday, November 23
8:00 am Kim Riedy

Thursday, November 24
9:00 am Cecelia Hagendorf

Friday, November 25
NO MASS

Saturday, November 26
4:00 pm Julia Green

Sunday, November 27
8:00 am Mary Ann Schloer
10:00 am Holy Cross Parish Family

This Week at Holy Cross Parish, November 13 - 20

2011-11-16T18:19:00.000-06:00

Monday, November 14
NO MASS

Tuesday, November 15
NO MASS
7:00 pm Finance Council, Rectory

Wednesday, November 16
6:30 pm Roger Wypyszynski

Thursday, November 17
8:00 am Mary Judkins
8:30 am Church Cleaning - Help Needed

Friday, November 18
8:00 am Orville VanLieshout

Saturday, November 19
4:00 pm Dave Woller

Sunday, November 20
8:00 am Holy Cross Parish Family
10:00 am Larry VandenHeuvel
11:00 am Liturgical Minister Training -
Church

November 13, 2011: From the Pastor's Desk ...

2011-11-16T16:12:00.002-06:00

My Dear Parishioners,

Holy Cross Parish Family gives a warm welcome to “The Original Green Bay Boys Choir” who have come here this weekend to sing at our 10 am Mass. We always enjoy their presence and thank them for taking the time and energy to come to our parish and enhance our Sunday liturgy.

This Wednesday evening we will have a special THANKSGIVING MASS for our Faith Formation students, catechists, and parents. Each year we hold this special liturgy to thank Almighty God for the many gifts He has bestowed upon us, our families, and our parish, and we use this Eucharist to reach out to those who are poor and hungry by sharing with them our blessings. As I have said before, there is no better way to express our thanks than to care for the poor and hungry in our midst. Please note there will be no 8 am Mass on Wednesday.

A week from Thursday is Thanksgiving Day – you may wish to mark your calendars to indicate that our Annual Thanksgiving Day Mass will be held at 9 am in the morning. I cannot think of a more fitting way for us to begin to celebrate this national holiday than by gathering for Mass and thanking Almighty God for his many gifts and blessings to us. I am very thankful because my very special friends, Dr. George and Pat Cunningham, and his sister, Karen, will be flying in on Tuesday, November 22nd, from Wilmington, Delaware, to spend the holidays with me. George and I were long-time skiing partners, and so we go way back to the 1970s. I also taught with his wife, Pat, at Archmere Academy. Kindly note that the parish office will be closed from noon on Wednesday until Monday, November 28th.

You are all well aware of the fact that Wisconsin now has a law which permits individuals to seek a permit to carry a concealed weapon. The law indicates that there are certain places where it is not lawful to carry concealed weapons. As a Catholic parish and community, we ask that all people seriously consider not carrying weapons into church buildings as a sign of reverence for these sacred places. Actually, I would hope that this would extend to all church buildings and property. If you have any questions about this, please do not hesitate to give me a call.

Oremus pro invicem,

Fr. Tom

This Week at Holy Cross Parish, November 7 - 13

2011-11-07T06:19:00.001-06:00

Monday, November 7
NO MASS

Tuesday, November 8
NO MASS
7:00 pm Pastoral Council, Rectory

Wednesday, November 9
8:00 am Alois Hartl Family
6:00 pm Training for Eucharistic Ministers and Lectors—Church

Thursday, November 10
8:00 am Steve Duginski

Friday, November 11
8:00 am Edward & Gertrude Siebold

Saturday, November 12
4:00 pm Carole Zittlow

Sunday, November 13
8:00 am Holy Cross Parish Family
10:00 am Milton, Marilyn & Diane Craanen

November 6: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-11-06T10:27:00.004-06:00

My Dear Parishioners,

Congratulations to Andrea and Troy Dalebroux on the Baptism of their son, Alexander Kael, at the 4 pm Mass this weekend. Let us hold them in prayer as they begin the lifelong journey of passing on their Catholic faith to their newborn son.

A member of the parish recently brought to my attention that the cross in our Pioneer Cemetery has fallen to the ground. It was not a result of vandalism but simply caused by age, weather, and rotting of the foundation. In addition to informing me of this, they also handed me a check to cover the expense of fixing the situation. My question is … is there a parishioner or group of parishioners that would like to take this situation upon themselves and fix our cemetery cross? If so, please either see me or call the parish office. This month of November we remember in a very special way our beloved dead, and I can think of no better way to do this than to restore the cross in our oldest cemetery which holds the mortal remains of our earliest members. May they rest in peace under the shadow of the Cross of Jesus Christ.

As I mentioned last week, this month of November is a month during which we can count our blessings, remember our beloved dead, and give thanks to Almighty God. One way to thank God is by sharing with those who have little or nothing. Our “St. Pat’s Pantry Food Basket” is once again in front of our altar reminding us to bring a nonperishable food item for the poor. I asked St. Pat’s Pantry if they had a list of foods and items that are in high demand, and this list can be found in another part of this week’s bulletin. I suggest that you check it out and perhaps we as a parish can provide those most basic items to the pantry and the people they serve. If you would be comfortable making a monetary donation to the pantry, please put it in an envelope marked “St. Pat’s Pantry,” and we will make certain that it gets there. Monetary donations make it possible for the pantry to purchase much needed items. Thank you in advance for your generosity.

I want to express a thank you to Dan Drossart, our Financial Trustee, for speaking to you at all the Masses this weekend about the material and financial aspects of our parish. Recent years have seen an almost total depletion of our reserve fund to make up for what we have not received in sacrificial giving. As a result, the day is coming—is actually quite near—when we will not have funds to pay our operating expenses. We should all be concerned about that. Kindly give Dan’s message some serious thought, reflection, and action. One suggestion that I, as your pastor, would like to offer is that Christmas is coming and all of us are usually most generous with gift giving to our family members, children, and close friends. I would like to suggest that you add one more to your gift giving list … why not try to make a very generous gift to your parish this Christmas?!

Please also remember that this Friday, November 11th, we as a parish provide a meal for the hungry at the N.E.W. Community Shelter/Room at the Inn. If you are willing to make a stew, jello salad, or bars, please call Lynn Meyers – her phone number is 866-9194.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 11.06.11 Church Bulletin

Churches Wrestle with Concealed-carry Ban

2011-11-03T19:19:00.000-05:00

May Perpetual Light Shine Upon Her

2011-10-31T19:19:00.003-05:00

Dolores Davister is the mother of Holy Cross parishioner Gary (Pat) Davister.

Dolores M. Davister (Mrs. Louis) 88, Sugarbush, died unexpectedly, Friday evening October 28, 2011, surrounded by her loving family at St. Vincent Hospital, Green Bay. She was born August 04, 1923 in Walhain to the late Amand and Laura (Monfort) LaCourt. On September 16, 1941 she married Louis Davister at St. Amand Church, Walhain. He preceded her in death on April 29, 2005. She and Louis farmed the homestead until retirement. She enjoyed dancing at Riverside Ballroom on Friday nights. In recent years, she looked forward to going to the Chapel of Good Hope in Champion and the Senior Citizens meal site in Luxemburg. She also enjoyed her meetings at the Belgian Club. We can’t forget those burgers that she enjoyed at Joe Rouer’s. Mom was a very faith filled person and prayed many rosaries each day. If she knew that her children and grandchildren were traveling, she made sure she prayed an extra rosary and sprinkled holy water for their safe travel. Her greatest joy was being with her family. Mom was a good baker and cook. She baked many loaves of bread, sometimes as many as 10 or 12 at a time and 1,000’s of Belgian pies that she shared with family, friends and church activities. The day before her passing she assisted in preparing and serving the parish soup supper. She also helped make many roasters of chicken dumpling soup. Mom always tended to her large garden and shared the produce with family and friends. Green beans never went to waste as sometimes, over 100 quarts in a season, ended up being canned. Oh, we can’t forget the Davister dill pickles and Mom’s casserole that she shared with many as well as her fruit punch that was served at the holidays. Mom was always busy crocheting kitchen towels, clothes hangers and she made sure that her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchild each had one or more of her afghans.

Survivors include her five children, Gary (Pat) Davister, Green Bay; their children Andrea (Matt) Jones and Alyssa Davister, Karen (Bernie) Skaletski, Green Bay; their children Brian (Julie), Scott (Theresa), Gregg (Nicole), and Curt (Jill) Skaletski, Larry (Judy) Davister, Sugarbush; their children Tina (Jeffrey) LeRoy, Patrick Davister, Tami (Jeff) Theys, and Kevin (Jamie) Davister, Shelby Davister, (and special friend Paul) Luxemburg; and her children Stacy (Kevin) Bouche, Robbie (Kim) Davister, and Bobbie Jo (Ary) Mulder, Dean (Connie) Davister, Humboldt; and their children Dan (Cora), John (Tiffany) and Jamie, Ken (Sue) Davister, Ashwaubenon; and their children Nick (Jennifer), Michelle (Tim) Boland and Alison (special friend Adam); and 32 great-grandchildren: Fiona; Claire, Evan, Emma; Kyle, Jack; Logan, Peyton; Ella, Dylan; Amanda (Brian), Alexander, Ashley, Adam, Austin; Derrick, Devin; Logan, Jordan, Lillian; Emilie, Lauren; Morgan, Bryce, Graham, Bailey; Hunter, Andie, Courtney, Addison; Jacob and one great-great-grandchild due in December, three step grand-children, Nick, Evan, and Michael, one great-great grandchild Carson. She is also survived by one sister-in-law Grace Allen, Green Bay, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Dolores was preceded in death by her husband Louis, one son Robert, her parents Amand and Laura; grandchildren Dennis and Angela Davister and Therese Skaletski; sister Marie (Ben) Hock, brother Aaron (Loretta) LaCourt and her brother-in-law Sylvester Allen, father-in-law and mother-in-law Ernest and Rose Davister.

Friends may call at the McMAHON FUNERAL HOME, LUXEMBURG, 3 to 8 p.m. Friday, November 4, 2011. Parish prayer service 7 p.m. Friday with Pat Ratajczak, Pastoral Associate. Visitation will continue on Saturday from 9:15 a.m. till 10:15 a.m. at St. Thomas The Apostle Church, Sugarbush. Funeral 10:30 a.m. Saturday with Rev. William O’Brien officiating. Entombment in the Shrine of The Good Shepherd Mausoleum. A thank you is extended to the emergency room staff, 9th floor staff and pastoral care of St. Vincent Hospital for the care given to Dolores and her family. Thank you to Pat Ratajczak and Rev. William O’Brien for their time and prayers that they shared with the family.

This Week at Holy Cross Parish, October 31 - November 6

2011-10-31T19:10:00.004-05:00

Monday, October 31
NO MASS

Tuesday, November 1, Feast of All Saints
8:00 am Mass OPEN
7:00 pm Mass for the Holy Cross Parish Family

Wednesday, November 2, Feast of All Souls
7:00 pm Mass for Mary Judkins

Thursday, November 3
8:00 am Mass for Trish Vickman

Friday, November 4
8:00 am Mass for Elizabeth Jensen Vedra

Saturday, November 5
4:00 pm Mass for the Holy Cross Parish Family
Baptism—Alex

Sunday, November 6
8:00 am Mass for Patrick Moreau
10:00 am Mass for Emma & Louis Charlier

May Perpetual Light Shine Upon Him

2011-10-30T20:41:00.002-05:00

Donald Ray Liter is the father of Holy Cross parishioner Beth (Rick) Kruczek.

Donald Ray Liter, 82, Mosinee, died Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2011, under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care and Hospice Services at Wellington Place, Rib Mountain.

He was born on Sept. 14, 1929, in Marathon County to the late Peter and Cora (Bemis) Liter. On Oct. 3, 1953, he married Lorraine Stoltz at St. Therese Catholic Church, Rothschild. She survives.

Visitation will be at Beste Funeral Home, Mosinee on Sunday, Oct. 30, 2011, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. with a prayer service at 3 p.m., and on Monday, Oct. 31, from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Services will be at 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 31, 2011, at St. Paul Catholic Church, Mosinee. The Rev. Donald Przybylski will officiate. Burial will be in St. Paul Cemetery, Mosinee.

Read the full obituary on The Wausau Daily Herald web site.

October 30: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-10-29T19:17:00.001-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

This weekend we bring October to a close and welcome the month of “THANKSGIVING.” I can think of no better way of thanking God for the many blessings that we have than by sharing with others. Our area food pantries are calling out for donation because this year, with the economy as it is and the unemployment rate so high, more and more people are asking for assistance. Once again we will place a large collection basket on the front step and center of our sanctuary and ask that each week you bring a non-perishable food item to share with those who are in need. We, as a parish, support St Pat’s Pantry and the leadership there have once again asked me to ask you for help. We here at Holy Cross have been very generous in the past and I do hope we can continue to be as generous between now and Christmas. This is also a good “teachable” moment for our children. I suggest that each week you have your children “purchase with their own money” a food item to bring to church. This, of course, is much more meaningful for them than to simply go to the family pantry and take an item. At any rate please use this month to count your blessings and share with those in need.

Tuesday, November 1st, is the FEAST OF ALL SAINTS and in our country is a Holy Day of Obligation. Masses here at Holy Cross will be at 8 am and 7 pm. Please plan to attend one of them and celebrate the fact that we are members of God’s family and on this day we remember those great men, women, and children who by the way they lived and the witness they gave while they walked this earth, set an example for each of us to follow. On Wednesday, November 2nd, we celebrate the FEAST OF ALL SOULS. This is the day, and we continue our celebrate throughout the month, when we remember those men, women, and children who have touch our lives, lived in our midst, and were part of our family or circle of friends and who have gone to their eternal reward in heaven. We remember them, we celebrate their new and eternal life, and we believe that one day we will go where they have gone. On Wednesday we here at Holy Cross will celebrate a special Mass at 7 pm in the evening and will remember our loved ones, but especially we will remember all those who have died this past year and will offer representatives of their families a memorial candle and will announce their names at Mass. Mark your calendars and come and join us for this special Mass.

We continue our preparation for the transition to the new Roman Missal. If you did not get the two handouts that were distributed at Mass last weekend, kindly see one of the ushers or look on the tables at either side of the front entrance. We have ordered additional copies of Father Paul Turner’s booklet, “Understanding the Revised Mass Texts.” We will also again offer the program “A Biblical Walk through the Mass” at a time and date that will be announced. This is really an outstanding program and consists of five one-half hour video talks. I am thinking of doing it during Lent, between the 8 am Mass and 10 am Mass in the church. I welcome your suggestions.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 10.27.11 Church Bulletin

May Perpetual Light Shine Upon Her

2011-10-26T19:14:00.002-05:00

Sister Marie Therese Kintziger, born July 29, 1929, in Detroit, Mich., the daughter of the late Michael and Claire (Boddy) Kintziger, passed away Oct. 24, 2011.

Sister Marie Therese entered the Community of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Holy Cross, Green Bay, Wis., in September of, 1947. She was received into the Order on Aug. 12, 1948 and made her final profession in 1956. She joyfully celebrated her Diamond Jubilee in 2008.

Friends may call TODAY, Thursday, Oct. 27, 2011, at Holy Cross Church, 3009 Bay Settlement Road, from 9:30 a.m. until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with Rev. Msgr. James Feely officiating. Burial will be in the convent cemetery.

>>Read the full obituary on the Green Bay Press Gazette website.

October 23: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-10-24T23:54:00.001-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

We welcome this weekend in the Rite of Welcome our children who will be preparing to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Eucharist in the months ahead. Please keep them and their families in your prayers as they come to understand and experience more deeply the mercy and forgiveness of our loving God.

November 1, the Feast of All Saints, is on a Tuesday this year and is a Holy Day of Obligation. Mass times will be 8 am and 7 pm. Also, on Wednesday, November 2, the Feast of All Souls, we will have a special Mass at 7 pm to commemorate our beloved dead who have passed from our parish family this past year. Special invitations have gone out to families who have lost a loved one this year and they will receive a special memorial candle during the Mass. While this is not a Holy Day of Obligation, it is a wonderful opportunity to participate in the Mass and remember our own loved ones who have gone home to the Lord.

Enclosed you will find the Annual Report of our parish’s financial status as of the end of our fiscal year, June 30, 2011. We will have an “Annual Meeting” during which you will hear about the state of the parish and can ask questions of our trustee/treasurer at 11 am on Sunday, October 30. All parishioners are encouraged to attend.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 10.23.11 Church Bulletin

This week at Holy Cross Parish, October 24 - 30

2011-10-24T19:48:00.002-05:00

Monday, October 24
NO MASS
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, October 25
NO MASS

Wednesday, October 26
8:00 am Donald Craanen

Thursday, October 27
8:00 am Walter & Lucille VanLieshout

Friday, October 28
8:00 am Alvin & Evelyn DeGrave

Saturday, October 29
4:00 pm Rose Mary Dart

Sunday, October 30
8:00 am Cliff Katers
10:00 am Holy Cross Parish Family

Book review: Author proves Eucharist is a gift

2011-10-20T20:07:00.003-05:00

By Jean Peerenboom

Precious Gifts: Biblical Reflections on the Eucharist by John F. Craghan (Liguori, $10.99)

John Craghan has given us a precious gift in “Precious Gifts: Biblical Reflections on the Eucharist.”

The Scripture scholar, who lives in the Fox Valley, offers a meaningful resource that combines top-notch biblical study and inspirational reflection on the Eucharist.

In this short book, he focuses on 10 themes: repentance, remission, redemption, reconciliation, resurrection, recognition, remembrance, re-creation, revelation and relatives.

Craghan has tremendous credentials in biblical scholarship. He is a professor emeritus of religious studies at St. Norbert College, De Pere. He has lectured extensively about biblical studies throughout the United States and Latin America. He has a doctorate in theology from the University of Munich; a licentiate in sacred Scripture from the Pontifical Biblical Institute, Rome/Jerusalem; and a master’s degree in Semitics from Columbia University, New York.

But, don’t let that scare you. His writing is down-to-earth and easy-to-digest. He says while writing the book, he thought “especially of those Catholics who completed their formal religious education at the end of high school. Many such people seek to reconnect with their Catholic heritage. … It is my hope that this book will help them discover a new world by focusing on different dimensions of the treasure of faith.”

I think he helps everyone on their faith journey – wherever they may be in that journey. He brings out a passion for Eucharist that is a core of our Catholic tradition.

Each of the 10 chapters opens with some initial thoughts – an introduction, followed by biblical background citing Scripture passages relevant to the theme, and finally an explanation of how it fits in with Eucharist. There also are review and discussion questions if you want to do some faith sharing or private meditation.
In addition to living our faith, he emphasizes the need for a feeling of community as we celebrate our Eucharistic meal and go forth to live the Gospel values.

When writing about repentance, for example, he talks about community and turning away from God. The next step is the journey back to God. “The Eucharist,” he writes, “is an event that profoundly expresses Jesus’ call to conversion … To celebrate this meal with Jesus means, among other things, to renew one’s intent to reorient one’s life by accepting Gospel values.”

Some other gems in the book are:

• “To celebrate the Eucharist is to proclaim the revelation that Jesus is the Father’s definitive expression of genuine life.”

• On communicating the revelation of the Good News: “Essentially, it demands incorporating God’s message into one’s entire person and then demonstrating it, especially through example. Thus, believers who truly care for others reveal that God is indeed love.”

• “Upon gathering for the Eucharist, the Church offers thanks to God in the Spirit for what Jesus has achieved by his death and resurrection.”

• “Emphasis on community must impact one’s notion of liturgy … At worship (believers) come together as member of an extended family who have common goals and needs. Liturgy without community is a contradiction in terms.”

The book takes me back to my own Scripture class at St. Norbert’s. Craghan was the professor. His coursework and lectures were intense, entertaining yet highly informative, fast-paced, exciting and challenging. After reading this book, I feel as though I just had a refresher course on the Gospels.

The book taps into my own passion for the Eucharist and reawakened a love for the Mass that I had started to take for granted. Thank you, Professor Craghan.

Jean Peerenboom is the former religion/books editor from the Green Bay Press Gazette. She writes a monthly book review for the Holy Cross Family Blogspot. To read all of Jean Peerenboom's book reviews, click here.

This week at Holy Cross Parish: October 17 - 23

2011-10-18T16:35:00.001-05:00

Monday, October 17
NO MASS
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, October 18
NO MASS
7:00 pm Finance Council, Rectory

Wednesday, October 19
8:00 am Steve Duginski

Thursday, October 20
8:00 am Lynne Gagnon
8:30 am Church Cleaning - Help Needed

Friday, October 21
8:00 am Eugene (Pete) Betzinger

Saturday, October 22
4:00 pm Gordon & Helen O’Brien

Sunday, October 23
8:00 am Holy Cross Parish Family
10:00 am Mike Corsten Family

Oct. 16, 2011: From the Pastor's Desk ...

2011-10-17T15:25:00.004-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

Kindly give a warm Holy Cross welcome to Father John Tourangeau, O.Praem., a confrere and fellow Norbertine from Saint Norbert Abbey who will be presiding at all the Masses this weekend. Father John is our vocation director, and I believe that he will share some thoughts with you about promoting vocations to the priesthood and religious life. As I announced last week, I will be away from the parish for a few days of R & R and will return on Tuesday, late afternoon. Should there be an emergency, you can always reach me on my cell phone – 619-7844.

Please note that the annual nationwide collection for “World Mission Sunday” will take place next weekend, October 22nd and 23rd, and the envelopes for this special collection are in this week’s bulletin. As always, your generosity is most appreciated.

Next weekend we will have the Rite of Welcome for our young children who will begin their preparation for the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. Each year we welcome our children and walk with them for their preparation for these two wonderful Sacraments. Kindly hold them and their families in prayer.

Looking ahead, it will not be long before we bring the month of October to an end. Keep in mind that Tuesday, November 1st, is a holy day of obligation and that Masses on that day will be at 8 am and 7 pm in the evening. Wednesday, November 2nd, is the special feast called “All Souls Day,,” and we remember all of our beloved dead. On this day we offer a special 7 pm Mass at which time we invite the families of all those who have been buried from our church this past year to this special Mass and present them with a “Memorial Candle” in memory of their loved one. Also we have a special Book of Remembrance which lists the names of our beloved dead and they are remembered in all the Masses offered here at Holy Cross during the month of November. Should you wish to add names to the book, please feel free to do so once it is placed in the church.

Enjoy these beautiful Autumn days….

Oremus pro invicem,

Fr. Tom

Homily from Sunday, October 9: Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-10-16T07:59:00.002-05:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Mass on Sunday, October 9, 2011. This homily is an introduction to a series of homilies explaining the changes associated with the New Roman Missal.

This October 14, Audiences will Discover The Greatest Miracle

2011-10-13T18:48:00.002-05:00

Captivating New Animated Film from some of the Creative Talent behind Films like Hercules, Spiderman and Ice Age Explores the Miraculous that is Often Overlooked in Daily Life

Showing in Green Bay (Marcus East)in English (only) at noon, 2pm, 4pm, 6pm and 8pm.

Contact: Stella Harrison, Movie to Movement, 202-431-6461, media@movietomovement.com

HOLLYWOOD, Sept. 20, 2011 /Christian Newswire/ -- Movie to Movement (M2M), in partnership with Dos Corazones Films, is proud to announce the release of a stunning new faith-based film, The Greatest Miracle, which will forever change people's understanding of how the spiritual and temporal worlds interact.

"In our frenetic world, where the average person struggles just to keep their head above water, people seldom take time to consider the spiritual forces that interact in their daily reality," said Jason S. Jones, founder of Movie to Movement. The Greatest Miracle follows the lives of three strangers -- Monica, whose husband has recently died; Chema, whose child is facing a deadly diagnosis; and Cata, an elderly woman seeking peace -- whose lives intersect one morning at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. There, each person meets their guardian angel and is given the gift to see the world through spiritual eyes and take full account of their blessings. "It's the finest artistic tool I've ever seen to explain the truth and beauty of the Mass," Jones stated. "You'll never experience the Mass the same way again."

The movie premiers the weekend of Oct. 14, 2011, at select theaters across the nation, and will open for wider release in December 2011. For every ticket sold on http://www.movietomovement.com/ for this film, HERO (M2M's parent organization) will donate more than 400 days of clean water to one person in the South Sudan through DigDeepWater.org.

"This is a very exciting project. We get to share a beautiful movie about the miracle that is the Mass while providing water -- the fundamental building block of human life -- to those most in need," Jones expressed. "We have some partnerships in place to help bring this film to the marketplace and will be announcing those soon. But we hope to secure more in the coming weeks to ensure the widest release possible."

Organizations, non-profits, parishes and media outlets interested in such partnerships can learn more by visiting www.MovieToMovement.com/TheGreatestMiracle.

ABOUT M2M: Movie to Movement harnesses the appeal and power of the silver screen to help change the culture by producing and promoting films that promote a culture of Life, Love and Beauty.

Faith Formation News

2011-10-11T10:42:00.005-05:00

FAITH FORMATION NEWS
WEDNESDAY: Oct. 19
Grades 1 – 6: 5:30 – 6:30pm
Grades 7 – 10: 6:45 – 8:00pm
Confirmation Class: 6:45 – 8:00pm
SUNDAY: Oct. 23 Sunday School: 10am – 11am

ALTAR SERVER TRAINING –
Wednesday, Oct. 19 – 5:30-6:30pm in church

YOUTH STEWARDSHIP CORNER
I shared my TIME and TALENT by:
 I helped my Mom teach her class,
 I helped someone in Walmart,
 I am praying for the needy,
 I shared my chair,
 I raked my old neighbors lawn
Total TREASURE shared: $2.25

TUITION HELP NEEDED / SPONSOR A STUDENT
If you would like to help with tuition aid or sponsor a needy family to attend our Faith Formation classes, your help would be greatly appreciated. Just call the Faith Formation Office at 468-6554.
Thank you in advance for your generosity!

This week at Holy Cross Parish, October 10 - 16

2011-10-09T19:18:00.002-05:00

Monday, October 10
NO MASS
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, October 11
NO MASS

Wednesday, October 12
8:00 am Mass for the Fred Bell Family

Thursday, October 13
8:00 am Mass for Fr. Gerald Kempen

Friday, October 14
8:00 am Mass for Fr. Gerald Kempen

Saturday, October 15
4:00 pm Mass for Bernard Herman

Sunday, October 16
8:00 am Mass for Judy & Debbie Tillmann
10:00 am Mass for the Holy Cross Parish Family

October 7: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-10-08T14:37:00.003-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

This weekend the GRACE system kicks off its annual fundraiser. You will be receiving information from GRACE on this special event which will describe their need and ask for your support. As you already know, GRACE now owns and operates Holy Cross School, and the sources of its financial support comes from tuition, from the parishes, and from third source funding. I cannot emphasize the importance of Catholic education and so I ask all of you to prayerfully and thoughtfully consider how you can help support the GRACE System and to be generous in your contribution.

Congratulations to parishioners Peter and Connie Corsten on the marriage of their daughter, Krista, to Dustin Dimmer of St Bernard’s Parish. Krista and Dustin exchanged their marriage vows here at Holy Cross this Saturday during a Nuptial Mass at which I presided. Krista has been very active here at Holy Cross School during the summers and on occasion during the school year. As a Parish family let us hold them in prayer as they begin their journey of becoming one in heart and mind in Christ Jesus, Our Lord.

Last Thursday our school children made their annual pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help in Robinsonville. With the Bishop’s announcement of the authenticity of the apparitions, the Shrine has received national attention and more and more people from all over the country are coming there to pray and visit. I know that this annual pilgrimage will help our children foster a greater appreciation of and devotion to our Blessed Mother and her rosary. Devotion to Mary as the Mother of God and our mother is a distinctively Roman Catholic devotion and marks us above other Christians in our prayer and religious life.

Next weekend I ask you to give a warm Holy Cross welcome to my fellow Norbertine priest and confrere, Father John Tourangeau, O.Praem., who will be here to preside at our weekend Masses. I will be taking some vacation time next weekend and will be gone from the parish from Friday morning until Tuesday evening. Should there be any emergency please do not hesitate to give me a call on my cell phone (920-619-7844). I am looking forward to some time away and some R & R.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 10.8.11 Church Bulletin

Support the GRACE Annual Appeal

2011-10-07T14:55:00.000-05:00

2600 Students
1300 Donors
23 Parishes
10 Schools
1 Purpose

GRACE’s purpose is to educate the whole child. How do you educate the whole child?

Choosing a Catholic education in the Green Bay area means never having to choose between a child’s moral and spiritual development and their academic enrichment. In our Catholic schools, students receive a superior academic foundation in safe surroundings where qualified and dedicated teachers also instill values like compassion, respect for others, honesty and a close relationship with Christ. This weekend marks the official start to the 2011 GRACE Annual Appeal. This year’s goal of $225,000 is a significant part of the $650,000 Development goal which represents 6.5% of the overall cost to operate all 10 schools.

Gifts to the Annual Appeal also help GRACE meet the needs in 3 critical areas:
• Technology
• Family tuition support
• Professional Development and Resources

Please help us build for today and tomorrow. Each household was mailed a brochure and pledge card. Your prayers and gifts make a lasting impression on our children and build our faith community. We ask that you continue to pray for us and consider supporting this work by making a gift today.

Homily for Sunday, October 2: Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-10-06T14:23:00.000-05:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Mass on Sunday, October 2, 2011.

October 2: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-10-02T07:35:00.005-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

This weekend is Respect Life Sunday. We purchased a wonderful packet of materials from the Diocese that contains a number of pamphlets that can be found in the pamphlet rack in the entrance. Please check these out and feel free to take materials that might help you to discuss various topics with family members. They all begin with “Life Matters” and cover the topics of abortion, contraception, the death penalty, persons with disabilities, embryo research, to the end of our days, reproductive technologies, and love and marriage.

Our Biblical Walk Through the Mass sessions have gone very well. Thirty-two individuals are coming together to learn about the Biblical foundation for the things we say and do during the Mass to enhance their celebration of the liturgy. The presenter, Dr. Edward Sri, is a biblical scholar and does an excellent job on the DVDs. If there is interest, we may run another series in the future. Contact the parish office if you would like to participate in a future program.

We welcome this weekend in the Rite of Election the following youth who will be preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation in the year ahead. Please keep them and their families in prayer that they will be open to the presence and movement of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 10.2.11 Church Bulletin

Faith Formation News

2011-10-01T12:57:00.000-05:00

SUNDAY: Oct. 2 Sunday School 10am – 11am
WEDNESDAY: Oct. 5 Grades 1 – 6: 5:30 – 6:30pm
Grades 7 – 10 6:45 – 8:00pm

YOUTH STEWARDSHIP CORNER
I shared my TIME and TALENT by:
 I helped my Dad in the garage,
 I swept the grass clippings off the driveway
 I babysat the neighbor for free,
 I shared my toys without being selfish!
Total TREASURE shared: $3.50

WELCOME CONFIRMATION CANDIDATES!
We welcome this weekend in the Rite of Election, the following youth who will be preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation in the year ahead. Please keep them and their families in prayer that they will be open to the presence and movement of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

THIS WEEK!
FIRST RECONCILIATION PARENT / CHILD MEETING AND SACRAMENTAL ORIENTATION
Monday, Oct. 3, 6:30 – 8:00pm – Holy Cross School Gym
If you or someone in your family (ages 7 or older) possesses and elemental awareness of sin and the forgiveness of God, and a desire to be prepared for the Sacrament of Penance / Reconciliation, you are invited to call Marti in the Faith Formation Office at 468-6554 to register for our First Reconciliation Program. This preparation is open to all people who have never been prepared for this sacrament, and to those who wish updating of their understanding of this sacrament. 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.

TUITION HELP NEEDED / SPONSOR A STUDENT
If you would like to help with tuition aid or sponsor a needy family to attend our Faith Formation classes, your help would be greatly appreciated. Just call the Faith Formation Office at 468-6554. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

Homily for Sunday, September 25: Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-09-28T19:21:00.005-05:00

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This is the homily from Sunday, September 25 by the Rev. Joseph Gleixner, MSC. Fr. Gleixner is a Missionary of the Sacred Heart who celebrated Mass and shared his missionary work with us this past weekend. Learn more about MSC's work, spirituality and ways you can support their mission at www.misacor-usa.org/.

September 25: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-09-25T19:27:00.003-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

Kindly give a warm Holy Cross welcome to Father Joe Gleixner, a member of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart, who will be speaking at all the Masses this weekend about his community’s work in many far off developing countries. Our second collection this weekend is for the “Missionary Cooperative Collection” which is sponsored by the Diocese. Members of various missionary orders and communities are invited to our Diocese, and our annual collection is an opportunity for the parishes of the Diocese to support them in their evangelization work. Envelopes for this collection we included in last week’s bulletin and additional envelopes are available in the front entrance of the church. Thank you in advance for your generosity.

Congratulations this weekend are in order for Rosemary Stay on the occasion of the wedding of her daughter, Stephanie, to Chad VanderLogt, which took place here at Holy Cross with a Nuptial Mass this Saturday, September 24th. Join with me in holding them in prayer that they may have a long and happy married life as they journey to become one in mind and heart in Christ Jesus.

On behalf of the Norbertine Community of St. Norbert Abbey I thank all of you for your prayers on behalf of our confrere, Father Gerald Kempen, O.Praem., who passed from this life on Saturday, September 17th. As I mentioned at last week’s Masses, I met Father Kempen when I was a sophomore in high school in Philadelphia. I always found him to be a gentle and holy man and a good example for me of what a Norbertine priest should be. Father served as pastor here at Bay Settlement from 1984-1992. May he rest in the peace of Christ Jesus.

As Summer transitions into Fall, let us all remember to count our many blessings and gifts and develop a “thankful heart.”

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 9.25.11 Church Bulletin

Haunted by God: the Life of Dorothy Day

2011-09-21T19:32:00.000-05:00

"Haunted by God: the Life of Dorothy Day" - Monday, October 3, 6:00 PM in the
Walter Theater of St. Norbert College; 315 Third St., De Pere

This inspiring, one-woman show is a moving dramatic portrait of one of the most outspoken and influential American Catholics of the 20th century. The production incorporates all the wit and prophetic grit of Dorothy’s own words about war, peace, American society, compassion, and protest in the Spirit of Jesus. Admission is free (no tickets required) and open to the public. For more information, contact Dan Robinson at 403-3079. Produced in association with Call to Action.

HC Athletics Update

2011-09-21T15:24:00.002-05:00

from Athletics Director, Ms. Sue Aerts

Soccer update: Our soccer season is up and running. This week is the middle of the season! The 5th and 6th grade team suffered their first defeat last week. While the 7th and 8th grade are seeking their first win. GO THUNDERBOLTS GO!!

Basketball: Now that the fall sports are in full swing, it is time to plan for our winter sport of basketball. We offer 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade teams with one of each for boys and one of each for girls. I need to know how many students will be on each team. If your child/children are interested please email me at saerts@gracesystem.org. I would like to know before the end of September as the leagues are writing schedules. You can send the paperwork after that.

Thanks, I look forward to a fun season.

Holy Cross Athletics
The mission of Holy Cross Athletics is to provide the opportunity for our children to learn new skills, be part of a team, to have fun, and to make new friends in competition against themselves and other schools in our community. The Holy Cross Athletic Program offers soccer, basketball and track to boys and girls in grades five through eight. All children of registered parishioners are welcome to play on Holy Cross athletic teams.

Homily for Sunday, September 18: Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-09-21T08:02:00.000-05:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Mass on Sunday, September 18, 2011.

May Perpetual Light Shine Upon Him

2011-09-19T08:30:00.003-05:00

Father Gerald Bernard Kempen, O. Praem was the Pastor of Holy Cross Parish from 1984 - 1992.

Father Gerald Bernard Kempen, O. Praem., 85, a member of the Norbertine Community of St. Norbert Abbey, De Pere, Wis., passed into God's eternal kingdom on Sept., 17, 2011.

Father Kempen was born on July 23, 1926, in De Pere, Wis., to Bernard and Clara(Gevers) Kempen. His home parish was St. Boniface Parish, De Pere, Wis.

In 1944, Father Kempen graduated from St. Norbert High School, De Pere, Wis., and in 1948, from St. Norbert College. He received an MA in American History/European History in 1956 and an MA in Education/Drama in 1958 from Villanova University, Villanova, Penn.

Upon entering St. Norbert Abbey, he was vested as a novice on Aug. 28, 1944. He professed Simple Vows on Aug. 28, 1946, Solemn Vows on Aug. 28, 1949 and was ordained to the Priesthood on May 19, 1951.

During "a full and wonderful Life" as a Norbertine, Father Kempen taught from 1948 to 1970 at St. Norbert High School, De Pere, Southeast Catholic High School, Philadelphia, Penn., and Abbot Pennings High School, De Pere, where he served as Vice-Principal for six years. Father served as Pastor at St. Louis Parish (Dyckesville), Luxemburg, Wis., St. Boniface Parish, De Pere, St. Margaret Parish, Cut Bank, Mont., Holy Cross Parish (Bay Settlement) Green Bay, and Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish, (Tisch Mills) Denmark, Wis.

Other positions held by Father Kempen include Chaplain for the Knights of Columbus and Vicar-Vicariate VII of the Diocese of Green Bay.

Father Kempen is survived by the Norbertine Community; one brother, Bernard (Patricia); two sisters, Bernice Gevaert, Rose Ann (Don) Polley; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers, Marvin, Albert, Gilbert, Adrian, Raphael and Norman; three sisters, Johanna Kempen, Marie Jansen and Elaine Deacon.

The Reception of the Body/Vespers of the Dead will be held at St. Norbert Abbey Church on Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, at 7 p.m. Visitation will follow until 8:30 p.m. and will continue on Tuesday, Sept. 20, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held in the Abbey Church at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2011. Rt. Rev. Gary J. Neville, O. Praem., Abbot of St. Norbert Abbey, will preside at the funeral liturgy. Please fo to www.ryanfh.com to send online condolences to the family. Burial will be in the St. Norbert Cemetery.

Ryan Funeral Home, De Pere, is in charge of the arrangements.

This week at Holy Cross Parish, September 19 - 25

2011-09-19T00:55:00.000-05:00

Monday, September 19
NO MASS
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, September 20
NO MASS
7:00 pm Finance Council, Rectory

Wednesday, September 21
8:00 am Mass for Norbert Skaletski

Thursday, September 22
8:00 am Mass for Alvin & Evelyn DeGrave

Friday, September 23
8:00 am Mass for Harley C. Jensen

Saturday, September 24
1:00 pm Wedding: Stephanie Stay & Chad VanderLogt
4:00 pm Mass for Bernard Herman

Sunday, September 25
8:00 am Mass for Carole Zittlow
10:00 am Mass for Holy Cross Parish Family

September 18: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-09-18T18:05:00.004-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

This weekend we celebrate and honor our teachers, catechists, staff, and volunteers on what we call “Catechetical Sunday.” All of us have been called to evangelize and spread the Gospel message, but all of our Catechists do this in a very unselfish way by volunteering their time, talent, and effort to teach our children and young adults. If you know one or more of our Catechists, please take some time to express your gratitude and say thank you to them for what they do to spread the Gospel and make Christ alive and well in our world and society.

Last Friday afternoon I attended a meeting at St. Matthew Parish with other priests from Green Bay as we met with Bishop Ricken to discuss the implementation of his Pastoral Letter on the state of and goals for the Diocese of Green Bay. For the next five years we will be working to implement these goals in each parish of the Diocese. The Bishop’s letter was published on the Feast of Pentecost, June 1, 2011, and copies are available at the front entrance of our church. Bishop Ricken calls each parish to be Holy, Fully Engaged, Fully Alive. More about our Bishop’s Pastoral and its implementation will be forthcoming.

A reminder that the first part of our preparation for the New Roman Missal which will affect how we celebrate Mass begins this Wednesday with a morning and evening session. If you wish to attend this 5-part series, please call the parish office and register so we know how many to prepare for. This program should greatly improve your understanding of the Mass and help you in your participation and the quality of your prayer.

My brother and his wife safely returned to their home in Salt Lake City after spending a week with me here in Green Bay. They thoroughly enjoyed their visit, especially their trip to Lambeau Field and the Packer Pro Shop.

Next weekend we will welcome Fr. Joe Gleixner to our parish. He will make an appeal on behalf of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC), a religious society of more than 2,000 members active in 54 countries, most of them in developing countries. I urge you to welcome him and make a generous sacrifice to join with the MSC in order to spread the Gospel in mission lands. Your contribution is a very concrete way to express your baptismal call and share in missionary work. Please return the envelope found inside the bulletin next weekend.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 9.18.11 Curch Bulletin

This week at Holy Cross Parish: September 12 - 18

2011-09-11T19:03:00.003-05:00

Monday, September 12
NO MASS
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, September 13
NO MASS
Parish Office Closed—Fr. Tom Away, Lori at Diocesan Training

Wednesday, September 14
8:00 am Holy Cross Parish Feast Day

Thursday, September 15
8:00 am Mass for Steve Duginski
8:30 am Church Cleaning: HELP NEEDED

Friday, September 16
8:00 am Mass for Jim & Delores Kunesh

Saturday, September 17
4:00 pm Mass for RoseMary Dart

Sunday, September 18
8:00 am Mass for the Holy Cross Parish Family
10:00 am Mass for Emma & Louis Charlier

September 11: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-09-11T06:55:00.000-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

As all are aware, this is the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attack against the United States, the Twin Towers and the Pentagon, and the thousands of innocent lives lost. Thousands are still mourning their loved ones lost on that horrendous day. I will never forget where I was when I first saw and watched the events of that morning. I invite you to join with me and Americans across our land who will hold sacred this anniversary day and hold in prayer those who lost their lives. Let us also be thankful to those who in the years following the attack have given of their time, talents, and energy in keeping our country and us safe from such horrors ever occurring again.

Just a reminder that our program called “A Biblical Walk Through the Mass” will run for five consecutive weeks beginning on Wednesday, September 21st. If you are interested in participating in either the Wednesday morning session from 9:30—10:30 or the evening session from 7—8, we ask you to call the rectory to register so we know how many to expect for each session.

Kindly welcome my Brother Bob and his wife April, who have flown in from Salt Lake City, Utah, to spend some vacation time with me. After Mass this Sunday, I will be taking them to our Norbertine House in Algoma for a few days and thus will be gone from the parish from Sunday afternoon until Tuesday evening. Know you can reach me on my cell phone should there be an emergency (619-7844).

Next weekend is Catechetical Weekend at which time we celebrate, honor, and bless all those who in our parish give of their time, talent, and energy to be teachers, catechists, and proclaimers of the Good News of the Gospel to our children, young adults, and adults. May God Bless them and keep them in His care.

This Weekend is our Diocesan Seminarian Collection as announced last week. God has blessed us with a number of men who are answering His call to “Follow Him”. Through this collection we offer our financial support for them as they pursue their studies in becoming priests. It is OUR HOPE FOR THE FUTURE as WE HELP THEM TODAY. We thank you for your generosity and know that God will bless you for it.

You may have noticed a note in last weekend’s bulletin about a needed roof repair at the school that will cost approximately $6,500. A few days ago, we were made aware of the need to replace the roof over the school gym. If these repairs are not made before winter, we can expect to have not only roof damage but damage to the interior of the school. We are receiving bids on the project, and are looking at a need for about $30,000 to replace that portion of the roof. Any financial assistance you may wish to give to offset these unbudgeted expenses will be greatly appreciated. Mark your donation “Roof Repair.”

Please hold in prayer the family of parishioner Margaret Wojcik who passed away this week. May she rest in peace.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 9.11.11 Church Bulletin

Join us for the first annual Holy Cross Parish Family Chili Cook-off!

2011-09-08T13:55:00.000-05:00

You can eat 'til the chili is GONE!

Saturday, September 10, 2011
4:00 PM - ???
at Holy Cross Catholic School
3002 Bay Settlement Road in Green Bay

Your $15.00 ticket buys you one voting chip and two beverage tickets.

Questions? Contact Michelle Jacques at mjacques@gracesystem.org or 920.468.0625.

Support our future priests

2011-09-07T18:31:00.000-05:00

Fr. Luke Ferris 2011 Seminarian Collection Message from Catholic Foundation on Vimeo.

Fr. Luke Ferris shares his thoughts on being ordained a priest for the Diocese of Green Bay. This weekend is the Seminarian Collection. This is our investment in the future! Envelopes are available at the end of the pews at church. Please be generous!

Homily from Sunday, September 4: Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-09-06T14:22:00.000-05:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Mass on Sunday, September 4, 2011.

Faith Formation News

2011-09-06T07:38:00.000-05:00

REGISTRATIONS ARE PAST DUE!
Registration forms for the upcoming year have been e-mailed to you and should be in your homes. If for some reason you have not received yours and you would like to enroll your children, please call Marti in the Faith Formation Office at 468-6554. A registration packet is also available for you to download at our parish website: www.holycrossfamily.blogspot.com/p/faith-formation.html. Registrations are due NOW!

CALLING ALL FAITH FORMATION CATECHISTS!
Required in-service for all Catechists next week on Sept. 14, 6:00 – 8:00 pm in the Computer Room in the school. See you there!

FAITH FORMATION START-UP DATES
SUNDAY SCHOOL: 3, 4, 5 yr. olds—Sunday, Sept. 18 – 10:00 am in the school.(On the first day of class we will begin with a Parent Meeting at 9:15 in Room 126)

GRADES 1 – 10: Wednesday, Sept. 21 - Parent Night – 6:00 – 7:30 pm in church

ALL PUBLIC SCHOOL CHILDREN. All children in our Holy Cross Parish Family have the right to be educated in their faith. Our Faith Formation Program provides faith formation for all students who attend public school. Young children often have questions about God. We will help you answer those questions when you register your children for Faith Formation. We have Sunday School classes for 3, 4, and 5 year olds during our 10am Mass on Sunday morning, along with classes for children in 1st through 10th grades. We also provide sacramental preparation for First Eucharist and First Reconciliation in the 2nd Grade, and Confirmation for Juniors in High School. Faith Formation classes begin in mid-September. Please see article below about dates and times.

YOUTH CATECHUMENATE. Sometimes children do not receive First Eucharist (Communion) or Reconciliation (Confession), or even Baptism for various reasons. Don’t let a child you know continue to miss out on faith formation/religious education. Call the Faith Formation office to register your older children for Baptism or First Eucharist. This is especially important for children as young as 7 up to age 14 who have not been baptized or received First Eucharist. Sixth through eighth graders who have not received Reconciliation, and or other children who have been away from the church are also welcomed back in the Youth Catechumenate. Call Marti in the Faith Formation Office for more information and to enroll your child.

This week at Holy Cross Parish, September 5 - 11

2011-09-05T05:24:00.000-05:00

Monday, September 5
NO MASS
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, September 6
NO MASS
6:00 pm Strategic Planning Committee
7:00 pm Pastoral Council, Rectory

Wednesday, September 7
8:00 am Mass for Barb (Rukamp) Jonet

Thursday, September 8
8:00 am Mass for Cecelia J. Hagendorf

Friday, September 9
8:00 am Mass for Don Rukamp

Saturday, September 10
4:00 pm Mass for the Holy Cross Parish Family
5:00 pm Fall Fest

Sunday, September 11
8:00 am Mass for Cliff & Bernice Katers
10:00 am Mass for the Deceased Members of Charlier
& Arvey Families

2,728 Students Participate in the GRACE System

2011-09-04T14:16:00.001-05:00

About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay at the historic crossroads of Church and Bay Settlement Roads, 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 142 years and has an enrollment of 208 students in grades EC3 to 8th grade. For more information, please visit the school's website: www.holycrossfamily.org.

About GRACE
The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) system is the largest Catholic school system in Wisconsin. A collaborative school ministry of the 23 Green Bay area Catholic parishes, GRACE was formed in 2008 to provide affordable, high quality Catholic early childhood, elementary and middle-school education. It serves 2728 students at ten neighborhood school sites located throughout the Green Bay area. Over 125 students of other faith denominations attend the GRACE schools. The GRACE system employs over 250 people with a total annual community investment of $10.5 million. The system has just completed a three-year planning and consolidation process that involved the 23 faith communities, parents and staff. It will assume full school operations on July 1, 2011.

September 4: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-09-04T14:05:00.000-05:00

\My Dear Parishioners,

It seems as if it were only a short time ago that we were celebrating the beginning of Summer and Memorial Day weekend, and here we are on September 3rd& 4th about to celebrate the end of Summer and Labor Day Weekend. Schools in many instances have already begun the new school year, young people are back in college, and we are putting away the things of summer, vacations and relaxation and getting back to ordinary time and living. The quick passage of time reminds all of us to cherish and appreciate the days and the time allotted to us. This is true, whether we are young or old!

As I mentioned in last week’s bulletin and at all the weekend Masses, this Advent will bring to our American church a number of significant changes in the way in which we worship, how we pray at Mass, and how we sing at Mass. We priests will bear the brunt of the overwhelming number of changes in the Mass texts. The Revised Roman Missal will be published the first week of October and our copies are on order. Our regular hymnals will have all the new changes in them and the liturgical year begins with the First Sunday of Advent, so we are set with that. Our Worship Committee at its last meeting decided on a pew card for the congregation and they were ordered and are in already. A Pew Card is a two-sided, laminated card the size of our hymnal which has all the congregations’ Mass responses and prayers printed with the new changes printed in bold print. These will be necessary until we all have the new changes memorized. Then in October, I will give a series of homilies explaining in detail all the changes.

One additional preparation for the coming changes is a program which I mentioned to you last weekend, i.e., A Biblical Walk Through the Mass. This consists of a series of five one-hour sessions; each session consists of a 30-minute DVD presentation and a 30- minute question and answer session. Many parishes will be offering this program in preparation for the new Missal changes. I strongly advise you to plan to attend as I think it will enrich your prayer life and participation in Mass. I will be leading this program here at Holy Cross. Listed below are the times and dates, and I ask that you call the Parish office if you plan to attend so that we can have enough seating ready for each session. The morning sessions will be held in the school library and the evening sessions in the school gym.

A BIBLICAL WALK THROUGH THE MASS
9:30-10:30 am – Library
7:00 – 8:00 pm – Gym
Wednesdays, September 21st, 28th, October 5th, 12th, 19th

Please remember that next weekend is the Seminarian Collection. This is our investment in the future. There is an insert in the bulletin, and envelopes are available at the end of the pews—we ask you to be generous.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 9.4.11 Church Bulletin

Scrip Updates as of 9-2-11

2011-09-02T12:14:00.003-05:00

I would like to pass along several updates regarding scrip retailers.

All of the mentioned bonuses will be starting on Saturday, September 10 and running thru Friday, September 23, 2011
The only exception will be PAPA MURPHY'S that will be running thru Friday, September 30, 2011.

I-TUNES: 3% bonus. The discount will be going from 5% to 8%. This is a regular retailer that we carry in our inventory. I am hoping that I will be able to place an order and take advantage of the increase.

J. C. PENNEY: 2% bonus. The discount will be going from 5% to 7%. This is a "special order" retailer.

PAPA MURPHY: 2% bonus. The discount will be going from 8% to 10%. This is a "special order" retailer.

RESTAURANT.COM.: 10% bonus. The discount will be going from 50% to 60%. This is a "special order" retailer. You can redeem on line for gift certicates at thousands of restaurants nationwide. A $50 card costs $20.

BURGER KING: 1% bonus. The discount will be going from 4% to 5%. This is a "special order" retailer.

OLD COUNTRY BUFFET: 1% bonus. The discount will be going from 5% to 6%. This is a "special order" retailer.

SUBWAY: 1% bonus. The discount will be going from 3% to 4%. This is a regular retailer that we carry in our inventory. I am sure we will be ordering more with the bonus as this is a good seller.

GORDMAN'S: 1% bonus. The discount will be going from 7% to 8%. This is a "special order" retailer.

Please have any special order request in by 9:00 a.m. on Monday morning.

For those parents who want their orders sent home with the school children, please be sure to sign the the sales form giving us permission to send the order home with the child. If the order is large (value) you may want to pick up the order at the rectory (weekdays) or after Mass on the weekend.

Thanks! Have a great holiday weekend!

Gary Davister
Scrip Coordinator
468-0374 (home)

Homily for August 28, 2011: Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-09-01T20:56:00.002-05:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Mass on Sunday, August 21, 2011.

Faith Formation News

2011-08-30T14:19:00.003-05:00

REGISTRATIONS ARE PAST DUE!
Registration forms for the upcoming year have been e mailed to you and should be in your homes. If for some reason you have not received yours and you would like to enroll your children, please call Marti in the Faith Formation Office at 468-6554. A registration packet is also available for you to download at our parish website: http://www.holycrossfamily.blogspot.com/. Registrations are due NOW!

ALL PUBLIC SCHOOL CHILDREN.
All children in our Holy Cross Parish Family have the right to be educated in their faith. Our Faith Formation Program provides faith formation for all students who attend public school. Young children often have questions about God. We will help you answer those questions when you register your children for Faith Formation. We have Sunday School classes for 3, 4, and 5 year olds during our 10am Mass on Sunday morning, along with classes for children in 1st through 10th grades. We also provide sacramental preparation for First Eucharist and First Reconciliation in the 2nd Grade, and Confirmation for Juniors in High School. Faith Formation classes begin in mid-September. Please see article below about dates and times.

FAITH FORMATION START-UP DATES
SUNDAY SCHOOL: 3, 4, 5 yr. olds—Sunday, Sept. 18 – 10:00 am in the school (On the first day of class we will begin with a Parent Meeting at 9:15 in Room 126)

GRADES 1 – 10: Wednesday, Sept. 21 - Parent Night – 6:00 – 7:30 pm in church

YOUTH CATECHUMENATE.
Sometimes children do not receive First Eucharist (Communion) or Reconciliation (Confession), or even Baptism for various reasons. Don’t let a child you know continue to miss out on faith formation/religious education. Call the Faith Formation office to register your older children for Baptism or First Eucharist. This is especially important for children as young as 7 up to age 14 who have not been baptized or received First Eucharist. Sixth through eighth graders who have not received Reconciliation, and or other children who have been away from the church are also welcomed back in the Youth Catechumenate. Call Marti in the Faith Formation Office for more information and to enroll your child.

TUITION HELP NEEDED/SPONSOR A STUDENT.
If you would like to help with tuition aid or sponsor a needy family to attend our Faith Formation classes, your help would be greatly appreciated. Just call the Faith Formation Office at 468-6554. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

This week at Holy Cross Parish, August 29 - September 4

2011-08-28T20:15:00.002-05:00

Monday, August 29
Happy Anniversary Fr. Tom!
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, August 30
NO MASS

Wednesday, August 31
8:00 am Mass for John Joseph Guinther

Thursday, September 1
8:00 am Mass for Rita Clark

Friday, September 2
8:00 am Mass for the Kapalin & VanLaanen Families

Saturday, September 3
4:00 pm Mass for Larry VandenHeuvel

Sunday, September 4
8:00 am Mass for Walter & Lucille VanLieshout
10:00 am Mass for the Holy Cross Parish Family

August 28: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-08-28T19:35:00.004-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

As we come to the end of August, each year my mind is filled with memories because the last two weeks of this month are very special to us Norbertines of Saint Norbert Abbey. The feast of our holy father, St. Augustine of Hippo, is the date that all of us have entered the community, have taken our Solemn Vows, and for me August 29th was the date on which I was ordained a priest. For example, this year August 28th represents 56 years that I have been a Norbertine, 51 years in Solemn Vows, and August 29th will be the 48th anniversary of my ordination as a priest. So these days bring back many memories of times past and hopefully of many more to come. I invite you to join with me and my fellow Norbertines as we celebrate our anniversaries.

Kindly also continue to keep Father Conrad Kratz in your prayers. As announced earlier, Father Conrad suffered a rather serious stroke earlier this month, and he continues to recover at Saint Norbert Abbey. He will have a long road to recovery, so let us hold him in prayer each day. At the present time visitors are restricted to members of the Norbertine community, and when this changes, I will let you know. In the meantime, Father appreciates all the cards, prayers, and well wishes that people send to him. Should you wish to send Father a card, this is his address:

Rev. Conrad Kratz, O.Praem.
Saint Norbert Abbey
1016 North Broadway
De Pere, WI 54115

Our Holy Cross School opens for the new school year of 2011-12 on Thursday, September 1st. Our opening of school Mass will be on Friday, September 2nd, at 8 am. All are invited to attend as we ask God’s blessings on our school and its new year. Let us also pray that Almighty God will watch over, guide, and protect our new GRACE School System.

I do hope that you will participate in our “Football Mania” fundraiser by purchasing and selling the tickets. Also mark your calendars for our “Fall Fest” – Saturday, September 10th.

Coming Attraction: To help us prepare as a parish community for the new Roman Missal and way of celebrating the Eucharist, in October I will be offering a program sponsored by the Diocese called “A Biblical Walk Through The Mass.” At the present time, I am planning morning and evening sessions over a five-week period that hopefully will give us a better understanding of and appreciation for our central act of worship – the Mass. More information will be forthcoming. Please note that Lori and I will be attending a Diocesan training session for this on Wednesday, August 31; therefore, the office will be closed Wednesday morning.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 8.28.11 Church Bulletin

Readings for August 28, 2011: Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-26T20:43:00.002-05:00

Access this Sunday's readings on the USCCB website at: www.usccb.org/bible/readings/082811.cfm

Reading 1
Jer 20:7-9

Responsorial Psalm
Ps 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9

Reading 2
Rom 12:1-2

Gospel
Mt 16:21-27

Scrip Update as of 8-26-11

2011-08-26T20:13:00.006-05:00

Just a couple of updates that I would like to pass along to you.

L.L. BEAN: Beginning Sat., 9/3 and going thru Fri. 9/30, L.L. Bean will be offering a 2% bonus. The rebate will be 17% instead of the normal 15%. This is a "special order" retailer.

BEST BUY: Beginning Sat., 9/3 and going thru Fri. 9/16, Best Buy will be offering a 1% bonus. The regate will be 4% instead of the normal 3%. This is a "special order" retailer.

RPM AUTOMOTIVE: (Bay Settlement Road) has increased their rebate to 10%. Our current inventory is at the 10% rebate and will continue at ths amount. Thanks Steve.!!!

Please have your special order requests in by 9 a.m. on Monday morning.

Sales are available on Monday in the Faith Formation Office from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Wednesday, Parish Office, 8:15 a.m. until 4 p.m. WED.Evenings: In the Holy Cross School Lobby, 5:30 until 8 p.m. when Faith Formation Classes are in session.
Friday, Parish Office, 8:15 a.m. until 12 p.m. (Noon)
Weekends: Sat. Prior to and after the 4 p.m. Mass
Sun. Prior to and after the 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. Masses

Any questions or concerns please contact me at gld_pad@sbcglobal.net or call me at 468-0374 (home).

We also would like to have a person help fill orders on Friday mornings. Anyone out there that might be interested please call me at 468-0374 or send a message to my email listed above.

Gary Davister
Scrip Coordinator

Scrip Update and Important Information

2011-08-25T16:58:00.007-05:00

TONY ROMA'S: This will be a new retailer available with $25 cards and 12% rebate. At the present time this will be a "special order" retailer for Holy Cross.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Updates to the Holy Cross Scrip Program as we transition our purchasing to St. Bernard’s Parish for local retailers.

NEW>> Bay East Animal Hospital: $50 3% rebate (special order)

Bay Family Restaurant: We will no longer handle after the current inventory is sold.

NEW>>Culvers: $20 6% rebate (in current inventory)

NEW>>Grazies Restaurant: $20 10% rebate (special order)

NEW>>Josephine’s Attic: Any $ amount 10% rebate (special order)

Lindeman’s Dry Cleaning: We will only be carrying the $10 certificates with the 8% rebate. (Special Order)

Mackinaw’s: We currently have $20 certificates in inventory. When these sell out, we will be replacing them with $10 certificates with the same 10% rebate.

PDQ Car Wash: We will no longer carry the $12 certificates. We do have some currently in inventory. We will have the $14 certificates in inventory after the $12 certificates are sold. We will still be able to get the $18 and $22 certificates as “special order”. All future certificate purchases of PDQ Car Wash will be offering a 17% rebate vs. the current 5%.

NEW>>St. Brendan’s: $25 10% rebate (special order)

NEW>>U-Bake: $10 & $20 5% rebate (special order)

Woodman’s: $50 5% rebate vs. the current 4%

Subway: $10 3% rebate vs. the current 6%. St. Bernard’s is unable to reach a deal with the Local Subway management so we will purchase from Great Lakes Scrip Center .

University Super Valu: After we sell out of the current supply of $10 and $25 certificates, we will be buying direct from the retailer and will be switching to $25 cards. The cards can be used as a debit card and if your purchase is less than $25 the balance will remain on the card for your next purchase.

Hope that this will help everyone. If you have any questions about an item that you are concerned as to whether we have it in inventory or can get it please email me and I will try to help you out. Sorry for some of the changes but this will be a better process for Holy Cross.

Homily for August 21, 2011: Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-24T14:43:00.000-05:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Mass on Sunday, August 21, 2011.

Faith Formation News

2011-08-22T13:17:00.003-05:00

REGISTRATIONS ARE PAST DUE!
Registration forms for the upcoming year have been e-mailed to you and should be in your homes. If for some reason you have not received yours and you would like to enroll your children, please call Marti in the Faith Formation Office at 468-6554. A registration packet is also available for you to download at our parish website: http://www.holycrossfamily.blogspot.com/. Registrations are due NOW!

ALL PUBLIC SCHOOL CHILDREN.
All children in our Holy Cross Parish Family have the right to be educated in their faith. Our Faith Formation Program provides faith formation for all students who attend public school. Young children often have questions about God. We will help you answer those questions when you register your children for Faith Formation.

We have Sunday School classes for 3, 4, and 5 year olds during our 10am Mass on Sunday morning, along with classes for children in 1st through 10th grades. We also provide sacramental preparation for First Eucharist and First Reconciliation in the 2nd Grade, and Confirmation for Juniors in High School. Faith Formation classes begin in mid-September. Please see article below about dates and times.

FAITH FORMATION START-UP DATES
SUNDAY SCHOOL: 3, 4, 5 yr. olds—Sunday, Sept. 18 – 10:00 am in the school. (On the first day of class we will begin with a Parent Meeting at 9:15 in Room 126)

GRADES 1 – 10: Wednesday, Sept. 21 - Parent Night – 6:00 – 7:30 pm in church

YOUTH CATECHUMENATE.
Sometimes children do not receive First Eucharist (Communion) or Reconciliation (Confession), or even Baptism for various reasons. Don’t let a child you know continue to miss out on faith formation/religious education. Call the Faith Formation office to register your older children for Baptism or First Eucharist. This is especially important for children as young as 7 up to age 14 who have not been baptized or received First Eucharist. Sixth through eighth graders who have not received Reconciliation, and or other children who have been away from the church are also welcomed back in the Youth Catechumenate. Call Marti in the Faith Formation Office for more information and to enroll your child.

TUITION HELP NEEDED/SPONSOR A STUDENT.
If you would like to help with tuition aid or sponsor a needy family to attend our Faith Formation classes, your help would be greatly appreciated. Just call the Faith Formation Office at 468-6554. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

This week at Holy Cross Parish, August 22 - 28

2011-08-21T06:59:00.004-05:00

Monday, August 22
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, August 23
NO MASS

Wednesday, August 24
8:00 am Mass for Lana (Pray - Safety in Afghanistan)
6:30 Worship Committee, Rectory

Thursday, August 25
8:00 am Mass for Elizabeth Koerner

Friday, August 26
8:00 am Mass for the Holy Cross Faculty & Staff

Saturday, August 27
4:00 pm Mass for Andrew & Genevieve Smith

Sunday, August 28
8:00 am Mass for the Holy Cross Parish Family
10:00 am Mass for Jim Clabots

August 21: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-08-20T21:52:00.003-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

This past week our school teachers and staff returned and are in the process of getting ready for the beginning of a new school year. This year brings a great deal of change to our parish grade school as it is now an integral part of the GRACE system. This new venture is filled with a lot of apprehension as we begin to do things in an entirely different manner than in the past, but it also brings with it the challenge and excitement of being part of something larger than ourselves. The GRACE system is a step forward in Catholic Education, and I invite you to join me in holding in prayer this new venture and asking Almighty God to watch over, guide, and protect our school and the other member schools. I also ask you and our staff to be patient and understanding as we move forward because as in any new venture there will be problems, kinks to be worked out, problems to be solved, etc. Always keep in mind that Holy Cross School has been here in Bay Settlement educating our children for more than 140 years and I anticipate that it will continue for at least 100 more years. With that sense of vision we can move forward into the future with great confidence and the assurance of God’s abundant blessings.

I would like to also mention that with the air conditioning of the 2nd floor classrooms, the art/computer room, and the school library, Holy Cross School can now boast that all of our classrooms are air conditioned and climate controlled. Thanks again to Jay Thompson and his company and also John Baenen for making this project possible.

This past Thursday, Lori and I attended an all day program sponsored by the Diocese at St John’s in Howard dealing with the “NEW ROMAN MISSAL” and its implementation which will take place the first Sunday of Advent, November 27th. As was brought out at this workshop, this is a major undertaking for our church, our diocese, and our parish. I will be offering another series of Sunday homilies dealing with the changes and will also be providing every household with a booklet explaining the changes. I ask that you be open to the changes. Keep in mind that not only do we have to learn new ways of praying and new words to recite, but we priests have to learn all over again how to offer the Eucharist because a lot of the prayers recited by the priest have been changed. So we can learn together and together we can continue to worship our God and Almighty Father.

I realize it is a number of weeks away, but I ask you to mark your calendars for Saturday evening, September 10th, for our PARISH FALL FEST. This year the food for the festival will be chili – and an opportunity to try a number of different chili recipes. It sounds like a lot of fun and it is a golden opportunity to kick off the Fall season by bringing together all aspects of our parish family to have a social together. Please consider coming and sharing with the entire parish community.

Finally, Football season is upon us and with that “FOOTBALL MANIA”. Please support this Parish fundraiser. I have purchased my tickets; have you purchased yours?

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 8.21.11 Church Bulletin

Book review: In the words of a shepherd …

2011-08-18T19:56:00.003-05:00

By Jean Peerenboom

A Shepherd Tends His Flock by Fr. John Girotti (Tau-Publishing, $26.95)

Father John Girotti has been “tending” his flock locally since 2002. Now, with the publication of A Shepherd Tends His Flock, he can branch out.

His new book is a collection of articles he wrote for his parishes of St. Anthony in Tigerton, St. Mary in Marion, Holy-Family-St. William in Wittenberg and St. Mary in Leopolis. He also dedicates the book to these parishioners “who shaped me into the pastor and shepherd that I now am.”

In his introduction, Girotti explains how his short bulletin articles came to be. He saw them as an extension of his homilies and “an opportunity to address issues of greater complexity that are better addressed in print than in the spoken word.”

He does not shy away from controversial topics. He tackles the issues of same-sex marriage, birth control, abortion, women’s ordination, end-of-life issues, annulment/divorce, sex outside of marriage, morality in elections, racism and much more.

But he also uses his articles to address faith issues: prayer, the Blessed Virgin, the Commandments and the “Seven Virtues (Plus One!). He examines and explains the liturgical year and Divine Mercy devotion.

This is done with humility, openness and honesty. He also interjects compassion and humor to make this an entertaining as well as inspirational read.

Girotti, who was ordained in 2002 and now serves as rector at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral and pastor of St. John the Evangelist Church in Green Bay, begins with:
“The one big lesson I have learned these past years as a priest is that ministry is an art, not a science. When you go to seminary for five years, and learn from all those books, you begin to think it’s a science. What a rude awakening I had when I discovered that this wasn’t the case!”

His articles reflect a by-the-book Catholicism, but are written with a pastoral style. There is no fire-and-brimstone here, just a pastor trying to explain and teach a faith that he loves deeply and passionately.

In a simple, easy-to-understand fashion, he explains some of the more complex issues that most of us grapple with in our daily lives. He shows how our faith today is relevant in all we do. So, I enjoyed the article titled “Do Animals Go to Heaven? (Or, I want my dog but the mosquitoes can just stay here!)”

Some of the arguments are a little harder to swallow: for example, his thoughts on women’s ordination. He says, “If a woman were ordained a priest, we would have an unacceptable situation of a bride giving herself to a bride (the church). In order to maintain the sacred distinction of the roles, only a man can be a priest because only a man can fulfill the role of bridegroom to the Church.” That logic didn’t win me over.

He offers some good lessons: In “Creation as the Foundation of Human Sexuality: Love people for WHO they are, not WHAT they are!” for example, he says, sexuality is a gift from God, which is sometimes abused. “Instead of treating each other with respect, we use each other as objects. So often, we fail to see each other as brothers or sisters.” This one, I’d like to see printed on billboards up and down Highway 41.

On racism, he has some sound advice: “Let us remember that, no matter what we look like or where we come from, God is our loving Father. Because of this, we have great dignity. There is no room for discrimination, bigotry or racism in the Christian life.”

In “When A Loved One Leaves the Church: Use love – not a stick – to coax him back!” He says we are all God’s representatives – we are the face of the church. “By seeing how we live, are others attracted to the Catholic Faith?”

Girotti writes for practicing Catholics, not for Catholic theologians or Scripture scholars. At times, it may seem simplistic. This is not an insult to his audience, but a concession to an audience who are at different places in their faith journeys. For many Catholics, religious education ends with high school or before. They are busy putting food the table and a roof over their families’ heads. They have become experts in other areas. They aren’t necessarily studying and critiquing the Catholic Catechism.

Girotti’s explanations of the sacraments, liturgy and Catholic teachings fill in that gap in an easy-to-understand way. He employs humor and humility as he walks through the issues that are on people’s minds or in the news of the day.

He reflects a more idealistic, black-and-white world than what I tend to see. But that doesn’t take away from the fact that this is good preaching, and good, solid Catholicism. After reading this book, I suspect Fr. Girotti is a good preacher and a good shepherd. I know he’s a good writer.

Jean Peerenboom is the former religion/books editor from the Green Bay Press Gazette. She writes a monthly book review for the Holy Cross Family Blogspot.

To read all of Jean Peerenboom's book reviews, click here.

2011 Charity Challenge Fun Run invites runners and walkers on Aug. 27

2011-08-16T20:19:00.001-05:00

A press release posted to the Green Bay Diocese website:

GREEN BAY, Wis. (Aug. 11, 2011) -- Runners and walkers are invited to participate in the 2011 Charity Challenge 5K Fun Run at 9 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 27, outside St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, Green Bay. The run will conclude in the church's center where a pancake breakfast will be served. The annual fun run benefits Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Green Bay.

Charity Challenge Run
When: August 27, 2011, at 9 a.m.
Where: St. Francis Xavier Cathedral
139 S. Madison St.
Green Bay (map/directions)
Cost: $20/Individual; $55/Family
Register: Charity Challenge 2011
Registration Closing Date: Saturday, August 20, 2011, 11:59 p.m.

Support Catholic Charities
Whether they walk, run or push strollers, every participant in the fifth annual family-friendly event will help Catholic Charities serve its 45,000 clients in Northeastern Wisconsin. Founded in 1918, Catholic Charities has grown to include more than 20 services, including:
•counseling
•immigration services
•family strengthening
•budget/credit counseling
•parenting
•adoption
These services have empowered families and individuals of all faiths and economic backgrounds to realize their full potential. Catholic Charities is funded by the Diocese's Bishop's Appeal, various United Way agencies, federal and state grants, and sliding scale fees.

More information
For more information or to volunteer, contact Catholic Charities at (920) 272-8234.

###

Who we are
The Catholic Diocese of Green Bay works to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ by helping people in need and by providing academic, leadership and spiritual formation opportunities to parish and school leaders. Established in 1868, the Diocese is composed of 345,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago.

Contact
Deacon Ray DuBois
Director of Communications
Phone: 920-272-8213
E-mail: rdubois@gbdioc.org

My greatest joy in sharing my faith as a Faith Formation catechist has been...

2011-08-15T20:01:00.000-05:00

* “Sometimes my students think I have never been challenged in my faith, and then when I share the difficult times of my life and how prayer helped me through, they seem to feel relieved to know everyone questions God at times. They also see the power of prayer in their lives.”

* “The fact that the teachers cooperate with one another. Our program provides an abundance of material for the students to learn in diverse and imaginative ways. The excitement our students brought to learning and growing in their faith. They had cooperative attitudes and that made facilitating the material so much easier.”

* “The students, they were a real joy! I really appreciate the support and encouragement I got. I felt appreciated! I can still relate to young people even at my advanced age, and to realize that I am serving my God. I believe age is never a barrier and I am grateful God can still use me as His witness.”

* “The in-services and the commitment of the teachers. The kids who “get it” because they have parents who “live” their faith.”

* “Passing on my faith to the students, that “missioning.” Plus, that we have the support to do so! When you see them understand the great importance Christianity (Catholic Faith) plays in our everyday life.”

* “I found the lesson plans and activities were easy to follow. Every Wednesday I was excited to meet with my class and we always learned from each other’s life experience stories that related to the session at hand. It was pure joy learning what the young students had to say about how God had affected them in some way at some time in their lives. I always kept an upbeat attitude and kept the students focused on the topics so that they would not find faith formation boring.”

* “The enthusiasm of the students and other teachers, as well as the Faith Formation Director. Seeing my students express their individual commitment to their faith during the sacrament of Confirmation. It was obvious that even the most “cynical” students were moved by the occasion.”

* “The flexibility of the program with regard to lessons; not all students learn the same way. I love watching my students learn and learning from them.”

* “Being myself, and conveying to my students that as humans we make mistakes, but that God gives us a chance to make up for those bad decisions.”

* “Helping to increase my student’s faith so that in times of need or pressure they can make and do the right thing.”

* “Watching the students grow and share their faith experiences. Seeing their enthusiasm for learning the Bible, prayers, and participation in skits.”

* “How much they are open to their faith, and how much they enjoy faith sharing. They enjoy stories and searching for Bible passages and locating them in the Old and New Testaments. Introducing them to the rosary and the lives of the saints.”

* “The last day of class when a student said while leaving the classroom, ‘Thank you for teaching me this year!’”

* “I’m learning too! There are times when I really felt like I connected with my students.”

* “Drawing on my own personal experience when it really fit the topic and situation and it just “clicks.” The evening the priest came to discuss vocations was one of those times that stands out in my mind.”

* “Facilitating discussions, encouraging their thoughts and questions. Their genuine interest in faith. I admire families who make the commitment to faith formation in their children.”

* “Teaching them about Jesus and being Catholic. Teaching them about how to be good Christians.”

* “We had a really great group this year! They all knew why they were in class and enjoyed their time in class. It was really great seeing how they have grown in every way.”

* “Witnessing the transition from disinterest to involvement by the majority of the students in my class.“

* “Seeing my students in church/school/anywhere outside of religion class and having them wave at me!“

We invite you to come and find out what these people are so “joyful” about! We will be having an informational meeting for anyone interested in learning about serving as a Catechist (teacher) in our Faith Formation Program. There will be an opportunity to look over our student books, teacher manuals, curriculum, and schedule.

CATECHIST INFORMATIONAL MEETING
WHO: Those interested in more information about being a Catechist (Faith Formation teacher).
WHAT: New Catechist Information Meeting
WHEN: Wednesday, Aug. 17, 6:30 pm
WHERE: Faith Formation Office
WHY: Because YOU are called to share your faith!

Any questions? Please give Marti a call in the Faith Formation Office at 468-6554. I look forward to hearing from you!

Homily for August 14, 2011: Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-15T19:33:00.003-05:00

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Download this episode (right click and save)

This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Mass on Sunday, August 14, 2011.

This week at Holy Cross Parish, August 15 - 21

2011-08-14T21:48:00.000-05:00

Monday, August 15
The Feast of the Assumption
10:00 am Mass at Shrine (bring own lawn chairs & cold water)
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, August 16
NO MASS
7:00 pm Finance Council, Rectory

Wednesday, August 17
8:00 am Mass for Carole Zittlow

Thursday, August 18
8:00 am Mass for Don Rukamp
8:30 am Church Cleaning - HELP NEEDED AND APPRECIATED

Friday, August 19
8:00 am Mass for Betty Torborg

Saturday, August 20
4:00 pm Mass for Ervin Heim

Sunday, August 21
8:00 am Mass for Leo VanLieshout
10:00 am Mass for the Holy Cross Parish Family

Faith Formation News

2011-08-14T20:15:00.000-05:00

Faith Formation Registration
Registration forms for the upcoming year were e-mailed to your homes this past week and should be in your homes. If for some reason you have not received yours, and you would like to enroll your children please call Marti in the Faith Formation Office at 468.6554. A registration packet is also available for you to download at our parish website: http://www.holycrossfamily.blogspot.com/. Registrations are due by August 15, 2011

All Public School Children
All children in our Holy Cross Parish Family have the right to be educated in their faith. Our Faith Formation Program provides faith formation for all students who attend public school. Young children often have questions about God. We will help you answer those questions when you register your children for Faith Formation. We have Sunday School classes for 3, 4, and 5 year olds during our 10am Mass on Sunday morning, along with classes for children in 1st through 10th grades. We also provide sacramental preparation for First Eucharist and First Reconciliation in the 2nd Grade, and Confirmation for Juniors in High School. Faith Formation classes begin in mid-September. Please see article below about dates and times.

Faith Formation Start-up Dates
SUNDAY SCHOOL: 3, 4, 5 yr. olds
Sunday, Sept. 18 – 10:00am in the school
(On the first day of class we will begin with a Parent Meeting at 9:15 in Room 126)
GRADES 1 – 10: Wednesday, Sept. 21 - Parent Night – 6:00 – 7:30pm in church

Youth Catechumenate
Sometimes children do not receive First Eucharist (Communion) or Reconciliation (Confession), or even Baptism for various reasons. Don’t let a child you know continue to miss out on faith formation / religious education. Call the Faith Formation office to register your older children for Baptism or First Eucharist. This is especially important for children as young as 7, up to age 14 who have not been baptized or received First Eucharist. Sixth through eighth graders who have not received Reconciliation, and or other children who have been away from the church are also welcomed back in the Youth Catechumenate. Call Marti in the Faith Formation Office for more information and to enroll your child.

Tuition Help Needed/Sponsor a Student
If you would like to help with tuition aid or sponsor a needy family to attend our Faith Formation classes, your help would be greatly appreciated. Just call the Faith Formation Office at 468.6554. Thank you in advance for your generosity!

August 14: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-08-13T19:35:00.001-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

Monday, August 15, is the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. I encourage you to attend Mass at “The Chapel” honoring our Mother Mary.

Bishop Ricken is also providing an opportunity for people of our Diocese to attend a Marian Eucharistic Conference. His letter is as follows:

Dear Friends in Christ,

Recently, there has been an increasing desire among the faithful for a Eucharistic Conference to be established in the Diocese of Green Bay. I am pleased to share with you that the diocese will host its first Marin Eucharistic Conference—Mary, Mother of the Eucharist—on October 7-8, 2011. The conference will be held at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral, St. Norbert College, and the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help, coinciding with the 152nd anniversary of the Blessed Mother’s apparition to Sister Adele Joseph Brise.

With the help of Our Lady, Mother of the Eucharist, those who attend the conference will realize with greater visibility the hidden power of the Eucharist and the important role in which Our Lady serves to unite us with Jesus in the Eucharist.

We, as Catholics, recognize the Eucharist as the source and summit of our Catholic faith. Please join me for an event that is sure to enrich and strengthen your faith journey with and toward our Eucharistic Lord.

Sincerely yours in Christ,
The Most Reverend David L. Ricken, DD, JCL
Bishop of Green Bay

Mark your calendars—this promises to be a very special event for our Diocese.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 8.14.11 Church Bulletin

Readings for August 14, 2011: Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-12T14:50:00.003-05:00

Reading 1
Is 56:1, 6-7

Responsorial Psalm
67:2-3, 5, 6, 8

Reading 2
Rom 11:13-15, 29-32

Gospel
Mt 15:21-28

Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help to host pilgrimage for Feast of the Assumption

2011-08-11T17:16:00.001-05:00

A press release posted to the Green Bay Diocese website:

GREEN BAY, Wis. (Aug. 11, 2011) -- Historically the shrine’s most well-attended event, this year’s Mass and rosary procession for the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is expected to have record attendance.

The special outdoor Mass and rosary procession (a form of meditative prayer) will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 15, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help in Champion, which is northeast of Green Bay. Bishop David Ricken will be the celebrant.

Participants are asked to bring their own lawn chairs, and to arrive early.

Ancient feast in Church
The Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary commemorates the taking into heaven of Mary’s soul and body at the end of her life on earth. The feast is one of the oldest and most solemn Marian feasts, and dates back to at least the seventh century when its celebration was already established in Jerusalem and Rome. Catholics revere Mary because she is the mother of Jesus Christ.

The chapel is located one mile east of Champion. For directions or more information, visit http://www.shrineofourladyofgoodhelp.com/ or call the Shrine directly at (920) 866-2571.

###

Who we are
The Catholic Diocese of Green Bay works to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ by helping people in need and by providing academic, leadership and spiritual formation opportunities to parish and school leaders. Established in 1868, the Diocese is composed of 345,000 Catholics in 16 counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Florence, Forest, Kewaunee, Langlade, Manitowoc, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Outagamie, Shawano, Waupaca, Waushara and Winnebago.

Contact
Deacon Ray DuBois
Director of Communications
Phone: 920-272-8213
E-mail: rdubois@gbdioc.org

Homily for August 7, 2011: Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-10T13:55:00.002-05:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Mass on Sunday, August 7, 2011.

This week at Holy Cross Parish: August 8 - 14

2011-08-08T17:43:00.001-05:00

Monday, August 8
NO MASS
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, August 9
NO MASS

Wednesday, August 10
8:00 am Mass for Terry Hubbard

Thursday, August 11
8:00 am Mass for Renee Sheriff

Friday, August 12
8:00 am Mass for Mike Connelly & Rick Nelson

Saturday, August 13
4:00 pm Mass for RoseMary Dart

Sunday, August 14
8:00 am Mass for the Holy Cross Parish Family
10:00 am Mass for Joseph & Anna Derenne

Faith Formation News

2011-08-08T15:51:00.007-05:00

A Legacy of Giving

2011-08-08T15:45:00.001-05:00

Centuries ago in a little village nestled in Europe, a nobleman wanted to leave a legacy to his townspeople. After much thought, he finally decided to build a church. When the people gathered, they marveled at the church’s beauty. “But where are the lamps? How will the church be lighted?” one villager inquired. In answer, the nobleman pointed to some brackets on the wall. He then gave each family a lamp to be carried to each worship service and hung on the wall. “Each time you are here”, he explained, “the area where you are seated will be lighted. Each time you are not here, that area will be dark. When you fail to come to church, some part of God’s house will be dark.”

Still today, travelers to this small village will hear church bells ringing and see families coming down the narrow streets, each bearing a little lighted lamp. One might think that being asked to bring their own light would keep these folks from attending the worship service, but just the opposite is true. Everybody that goes makes it a little brighter. When anyone is tempted to stay at home or go somewhere else, they remember that the old church needs everyone’s lamp, because if even one lamp is missing, there is much less light.

The nobleman’s legacy was far greater than the old church building itself. He taught us that as Christians, we are part of something bigger than ourselves. And that while no one person can do everything – each can do a little. As Christians, OUR legacy is to light the way for others.

I would like to extend a personal invitation to you to consider serving as a Catechist (Religion Teacher) in our Faith Formation Program. Even if you have never considered the possibility of sharing your faith as a teacher in our program, I invite you to come and see what is involved. A Catechist helps young people learn about their faith. Catechists use lesson plans developed by the Faith Formation Office, the text book, and personal gifts and talents to share their Catholic faith with our young people. Benefits include training for the ministry and the joy that comes from sharing your faith with the young people in our parish family Catechists are required to complete a background check and a 3-hour Virtus Training (paid for by the parish) before beginning their ministry.

I can already hear you saying “But I’m not qualified”, or “I don’t have the time”! Do you think our Catechists are “theologians”? Guess gain! They are Mom’s and Dad’s and students. They are married and single, young and old, who juggle classes and their children’s soccer, piano and hockey schedules. They are people just like YOU!

We have small groups of students (10 or less), and complete lesson plans to help with each class.

The times are:
Sunday School 10:00 – 11am for our 3, 4, and 5 year olds (during the 10am Mass)
Wednesday's 5:30 – 6:30 – Grades 1 – 6
Wednesday's 6:45 – 8:00pm – Grades 7 – 10 and Confirmation

I am committed to making sure that you feel confident and competent in your role as a Catechist. We who serve in our Faith Formation Program are continually energized by the Spirit of God alive in our Catechists.
Come and be a part of us!

Please pray about this and be open to where the Spirit may be leading you! God’s people working together leaves a mark that cannot be erased. We create a “legacy of giving”. No one can carry this load alone, nor can just a few. It takes all of us a parish family. God is calling you to do your part!

If you are interested in this exciting opportunity, please come to our Catechist Informational Meeting on: Wednesday, August 17 at 6:30pm in the Faith Formation Office. Do you have further questions? Call Marti in the Faith Formation Office at 468.6554

LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE!
BE A FAITH FORMATION CATECHIST!

August 7: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-08-08T15:38:00.005-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

The summer is just flying by, and it is difficult to believe that we have completed one week in August! Already we are looking forward to a new school year. With that in mind, this coming Tuesday we as a faith community are hosting a special program at The Bluff on Bay Settlement Road. If you may be considering a change for your child’s education, we invite you to consider the gift of a Catholic education at Holy Cross School. This Tuesday at The Bluff from 5:30 to 7:30 pm you can attend our “MEET, GREET AND EAT” program. You can meet our Principal, Robin Jensen, some of our staff and teachers, and get information about our school. If you bring the announcement found inside, you can also get a special discount on your meal, or enjoy
some free popcorn and soda.

Monday, August 15th, is the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Because it falls on a Monday this year, it is not considered a Holy Day of Obligation. However, the Feast of the Assumption is special to us this year because it is a special anniversary for The Shrine of Our Lady of Good Help in Robinsonville, and each year this Feast draws many to the outdoor Mass celebrated at 10 am, followed by Benediction and the recitation of the rosary. I encourage you to plan to attend and to join thousands of others for this special event. You are asked to bring your own lawn chair for seating, and I suggest that you also bring a cooler with bottles of iced water.

Kindly remember to pick up your envelope with the Football Mania tickets. This is a big fundraiser for our parish, school and faith formation program and at the same time can be a lot of fun. I ask that you participate in this program sponsored by the leadership of our parish community.

Please also keep in mind that on the weekend of September 10th and 11th we will have our annual collection for the support of our diocesan seminarians. As a church we need to prepare for our future needs and this is an essential preparation for doing this. Kindly mark your calendars and plan ahead for this important collection.

On Friday, August 12, we will serve a warm, delicious meal of beef stew, jello, and bars to visitors to the N.E.W. Community Shelter. We need volunteers to make food and help serve. Please contact Lynn Meyers at 866-9194 if you can help. This is a great way to reach out to help those less fortunate in our community.

Thanks to a generous parishioner, the remainder of our 2010 Bishop’s Appeal Assessment has been paid. However, we still have a significant shortfall from our 2011 Bishop’s Appeal and, therefore, the second collections will continue until this
amount is collected and paid off. Please be generous as we try to pay off our debt to
the Diocese.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 8.8.11 Church Bulletin

Readings for August 7, 2011: Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-05T18:59:00.004-05:00

Reading 1
1 Kgs 19:9a, 11-13a

Responsorial Psalm
85:9, 10, 11-12, 13-14

Reading 2
Rom 9:1-5

Gospel
Mt 14:22-33

Blessed loaves and fishes
A reflection on Sunday's readings written by Fr. Mark Vander Steeg

Are you considering a change for your child?

2011-08-03T06:56:00.002-05:00

Discover the gift of Catholic education at Holy Cross Catholic School!

Join us for a
Holy Cross Catholic School
Meet, Greet and Eat
At The Bluff Pub and Grille
2638 Bay Settlement Rd. in Green Bay

Tuesday, August 9, 2011
5:30-7:30 PM

Meet Principal Robin Jo Jensen and some of our staff members, pick up information about Holy Cross, and get a great deal for supper. Bring in this announcement for a special discount off your meal at The Bluff on Tuesday, August 9. Enjoy FREE popcorn and soda!

Registering for the 2011-12 school year
4 yr. old Kindergarten 2, 3 or 5 day options
Kindergarten—8th grade

* 4K PARENTS: There are still spots available in our 4K program taught by Golden Apple nominee Mrs. Michelle Jacques!
* Financial aid available for K-8 students.
* Online registration kiosk available that night.

Questions? Call 920.468.0625 or e-mail czehms@holycrossfamily.org. Find us online at http://www.holycrossfamily.org/.

About Holy Cross Catholic School
Located on the growing northeast side of Green Bay at the historic crossroads of Church and Bay Settlement Roads, 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 142 years and has an enrollment of 208 students in grades 4K to 8th grade. For more information, please visit the school's website: http://www.holycrossfamily.org/.

About GRACE
The Green Bay Area Catholic Education (GRACE) system is the largest Catholic school system in Wisconsin. A collaborative school ministry of the 23 Green Bay area Catholic parishes, GRACE was formed in 2008 to provide affordable, high quality Catholic early childhood, elementary and middle-school education. It serves 2728 students at ten neighborhood school sites located throughout the Green Bay area. Over 125 students of other faith denominations attend the GRACE schools. The GRACE system employs over 250 people with a total annual community investment of $10.5 million. The system has just completed a three-year planning and consolidation process that involved the 23 faith communities, parents and staff. It will assume full school operations on July 1, 2011.

Homily for July 31, 2011: Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-08-02T06:46:00.000-05:00

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This is the homily by Fr. Tom Hagendorf, O Praem from Mass on Sunday, July 31, 2011.

ZENIT: US Bishops Remind Congress of Moral Issues in Budget Debate

2011-07-31T21:08:00.001-05:00

Say It's Not About Which Party Wins, But How the Poor Are Treated

WASHINGTON, D.C., JULY 27, 2011 (Zenit.org).- The U.S. bishops are reminding Congress that the debate on budget cuts has a moral dimension to consider.

In a letter Tuesday to the House of Representatives, Bishop Stephen Blaire of Stockton, California, and Bishop Howard Hubbard of Albany, New York, proposed three points for Congressmen to consider when debating the budget.

The bishops acknowledged the challenge facing Congress: "fulfilling the demands of justice and moral obligations to future generations; controlling future debt and deficits; and protecting the lives and dignity of those who are poor and vulnerable."

They noted that the Church "brings both moral principles and everyday experience to this discussion."

And they offered three moral criteria "to help guide difficult budgetary decisions":

"1. Every budget decision should be assessed by whether it protects or threatens human life and dignity.

"2. A central moral measure of any budget proposal is how it affects "the least of these" (Matthew 25). The needs of those who are hungry and homeless, without work or in poverty should come first.

"3. Government and other institutions have a shared responsibility to promote the common good of all, especially ordinary workers and families who struggle to live in dignity in difficult economic times."

Shared sacrifice
The prelates denounced a budget that relies "on disproportionate cuts in essential services to poor persons."

"It requires shared sacrifice by all, including raising adequate revenues, eliminating unnecessary military and other spending, and addressing the long-term costs of health insurance and retirement programs fairly," they observed.

The two bishops expressed fear at the "human and social costs" of cuts that will affect families and areas as basic as food and housing.

They also emphasized the need for solidarity with developing nations. "Such assistance supports a wide range of life-saving programs, including: drugs to combat diseases; assistance to poor farmers and orphans; food aid for starving people; aid to victims of natural disasters; and help to refugees fleeing for their lives," they recalled. "The House proposal will require massive cuts in all these areas."

Bishops Blaire and Hubbard affirmed that the "moral measure of this budget debate is not which party wins or which powerful interests prevail, but rather how those who are jobless, hungry, homeless or poor are treated."

"Their voices," they said, "are too often missing in these debates, but they have the most compelling moral claim on our consciences and our common resources."

© Innovative Media, Inc.

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. Please click on the logo to visit the site.

This week at Holy Cross Parish: August 1 - 7

2011-07-31T18:50:00.004-05:00

Monday, August 1
NO MASS
6:00 pm Rosary, Church

Tuesday, August 2
NO MASS

Wednesday, August 3
8:00 am Mass for Laura Lardinois

Thursday, August 4
8:00 am Mass for Steve Duginski

Friday, August 5
8:00 am Mass (OPEN intention)

Saturday, August 6
4:00 pm Mass for Bernard Herman

Sunday, August 7
8:00 am Mass for the Holy Cross Parish Family
10:00 am Mass for Janie, Amy & David Jensen

July 30: From the Pastor's Desk...

2011-07-30T19:44:00.004-05:00

My Dear Parishioners,

On the feast of Pentecost this year (June 12), Bishop David Ricken issued a Pastoral Letter to the Diocese of Green Bay, “ Parishes: Called to be Holy, Fully Engaged, Fully Alive.” In this letter the Bishop calls all parishes to engage our dreams for the future in the following pastoral areas: Evangelization; Youth, Young Adults and Family; Leadership; Education; Eucharist; and Dignity of Human Life. We have been called during the next three years to focus on two of these initiatives each year. Copies of the Bishop’s pastoral letter are available in the front entrance of the church.

In preparation for this program, the Pastoral Council has discussed how we view and function as a parish community. As a result of its discussion, the Council felt that we have to be thinking in terms of “us” rather than in terms of individual components, e.g. school, faith formation, athletics, etc. This change in thinking carries over into many aspects of parish life. As a result of this, the Pastoral Council, in union with all the components of the parish, has applied this to the concrete situation of fundraising. This coming year all fundraising activities will come under the umbrella of the parish. Each and every fundraising activity will be considered a parish event. While most of the fundraising will target certain areas of parish life, for example the Auction = school, all members of the parish community will be asked to participate in and support the activity.

No component of the parish should feel left out, but with this new way of thinking should feel an important and vital part of parish life. Let me give you a specific example of how the parish benefits from our fundraising activity. Last Spring we supported a parish-wide but school-led fundraiser called “Hoops Mania” which raised just over $3,700. The three classrooms on the second floor of the school have been literal “saunas” in both the Fall and Spring. It was decided to use this $3,700+ to climate control these areas. Obviously, it was not enough money to do the project, but with the generosity of parishioner Jay Thompson and his company, who agreed to pick of the remaining cost of the project, these three classrooms will be air conditioned for the opening of school. This will benefit both our day school teachers and students as well as our faith formation catechists and students. In other words, the entire parish benefits.

As this program goes into effect, I ask that all aspects of our parish, all activities, programs, etc., see this new fundraising policy not as a threat to their individual program but a positive step in being part of a dynamic, caring, and supportive faith community which seeks to support, maintain, and meet all the needs of our various programs. I also ask the parish membership to participate and fully support the various activities throughout the year. This weekend we “kick off” Football Mania. If you need more tickets to buy or sell, they are available in the school and parish office.

Oremus pro invicem,
Fr. Tom

Related link: 7.31.11 Church Bulletin

Readings for July 31, 2011: Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-07-29T10:38:00.007-05:00

Reading 1
Is 55:1-3

Responsorial Psalm
Ps 145:8-9, 15-16, 17-18

Reading 2
Rom 8:35, 37-39

Gospel
Mt 14:13-21

Blessed loaves and fishes
A reflection on Sunday's readings by Fr. Mark Vander Steeg

Classmates Gather at Holy Cross Parish Picnic

2011-07-27T21:14:00.013-05:00

Members of the class of 1958 (pictured below) reunited for a weekend of fun and reminiscing at the Holy Cross Parish Picnic this summer.

HCCS alumnus Richard Strebel shared the following photo of his class in eighth grade.

He reports:
"The eighth grade class is pictured on the right & the 7th grade class is pictured on the left. The photo was taken in 1958. There were 25 students in our class (22 in our graduating class - the other 3 changed schools after the 6th or 7th grade). Twenty two out of the 25 students are still alive.

"Our teachers at Holy Cross were: Grade 1 & 2: Sr. Mary Peter, Grade 3 & 4: Sr. Lucy, Grade 5: Sr. Cletus, Grade 6: Sr. Lucy, Grade 7 & 8: Sr. Jane Frances."
Below, the class of 1958 leaves their mark on a chalkboard at HCCS. More long lasting, however, is the mark they and all alumni leave as part of the legacy of Catholic education at Holy Cross.

Are you an alumnus of Holy Cross Catholic School? We'd like to stay in touch with you! Please e-mail your name, address, and e-mail to czehms@holycrossfamily.org.

You can also stay in touch by liking us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Holy-Cross-Catholic-School-Alumni-and-Supporters/175773119118911?sk=wall