PARISH E-NEWS
Ministry Updates and Upcoming Events
September 19-28, 2025
Father Carl's Corner - September 21, 2025
Brothers and sisters in faith, our country is living through a difficult season. Political divisions run deep. Too often, as we have recently seen very publicly, the anger that comes with disagreement spills over into hostility and violence that leads to death. As Christians, we must be clear: political violence is a sin. It denies the dignity of the person, it destroys the peace we are called to build, and it betrays the gospel of Jesus, who told us, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
It is not wrong to disagree about political issues. In fact, thoughtful respectful debate can be a healthy part of democracy. However, when our differences turn to hatred - when we begin to see one another as an enemy to be destroyed rather than a fellow human being made in God’s image - we have lost sight of Christ’s way.
It is not wrong to disagree about political issues. In fact, thoughtful respectful debate can be a healthy part of democracy. However, when our differences turn to hatred - when we begin to see one another as an enemy to be destroyed rather than a fellow human being made in God’s image - we have lost sight of Christ’s way.
Each time we make the sign of the cross at the beginning and end of our prayers, the cross reminds us that violence is never the answer. Jesus did not respond to betrayal, false accusation, or injustice with violence. He chose love, forgiveness, and truth. That same choice is being asked of us today.
What can we do personally? One simple but powerful step is this: examine our words. Before speaking, posting or sharing, ask: Does this build up or tear down? Does this reflect love, or does it sow division? Choosing restraint, respect, and kindness in our speech is a way of disarming the cycle of anger. It might seem small, but these small acts of peace ripple outward. If enough of us commit to responding with dignity, respect, and prayer instead of hostility, then we become a leaven of hope in a divided nation. Let us pray for peace in our country, for healing across divides, and for the courage to witness to the gospel of love even when it is hard.
What can we do personally? One simple but powerful step is this: examine our words. Before speaking, posting or sharing, ask: Does this build up or tear down? Does this reflect love, or does it sow division? Choosing restraint, respect, and kindness in our speech is a way of disarming the cycle of anger. It might seem small, but these small acts of peace ripple outward. If enough of us commit to responding with dignity, respect, and prayer instead of hostility, then we become a leaven of hope in a divided nation. Let us pray for peace in our country, for healing across divides, and for the courage to witness to the gospel of love even when it is hard.
I invite us all to take this prayer and place it where we will see it, and pray it each day. We need peace and civility in our nation.
A Prayer for Peace in Our Nation - Lord Jesus, You are the Prince of Peace. You teach us to love our enemies and pray for those who oppose us. Heal the divisions in our country. Forgive us when our anger turns to hatred and when words and actions cause harm. Give us courage to choose peace over violence, truth over distortion and love over fear. Make us instruments of your peace, in our families, in our parish, and in our nation. We commit ourselves today to speak with respect, to act with kindness, and to work for the dignity of every person. Mary, Queen of Peace, pray for us. Amen.
Let us pray for all who have lost their lives to political violence. May they be resting now in true peace, God’s peace.
Let us pray for all who have lost their lives to political violence. May they be resting now in true peace, God’s peace.
Have a safe and good week ahead.
With you a Christian. For you, a priest.
Father Carl Morello
Pastor
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish
Pastor
Ascension and St. Edmund Parish
St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish
Confession and Mass Schedule - September 20-21, 2025 - 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time
- Confessions on Saturday from 8:30 to 9 am at St. Giles Church
- Saturday, 4:30 PM at St. Giles Church
- Sunday, 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM at St. Giles Church - The 10:30 AM Mass will be also livestreamed - CLICK TO WATCH
- Sunday, 10:00 AM - Family Mass Community in St. Giles McDonough Hall (1101 Columbian Avenue - 2nd Floor - Entrance off Columbian Avenue) - Also available via ZOOM - CLICK TO WATCH - Meeting ID: 874 7871 3065 - Passcode: 005586 - Contact Alex Ryan at alexryan@stgilesparish.com
- Sunday, 5:00 PM at St. Edmund Church - Mass co-sponsored by the two Oak Park Catholic Parishes, Ascension and St. Edmund and St. Catherine-St. Lucy and St. Giles
Second Collection - Seminarian Education Fund
The Archdiocesan Collection at Masses THIS Weekend, September 20-21, for the Education and Formation of our Future Priests - The Seminarian Education Fund provides support for the training and education of men studying for priesthood in the Archdiocese of Chicago. The fund helps to cover the cost to educate each archdiocesan seminarian as they proceed through the various stages of formation before ordination as a priest for Chicago.
Please support the men seeking to answer God’s call to a life of service as a priest for the Archdiocese of Chicago.
WE HAVE A NEW WEBSITE!
NEW URL - www.catholiccommunitiesofoakpark.org
The new website launched on July 1 and replaces the two previous websites. Each legacy website has a landing page that will notify visitors of the change. The new website is a work-in-progress as we continue to add content and updates. As you begin to explore the new website, please share your feedback with us. We hope the website reflects the vibrant, welcoming spirit of our Catholic community.
This week at St. Giles School
Middle School Science Gets Messy with Oobleck! - This week, our middle school scientists rolled up their sleeves for a hands-on experiment with oobleck - a strange, slimy substance made from cornstarch and water. Named after the Dr. Seuss story, oobleck is a non-Newtonian fluid, which means it sometimes acts like a liquid and sometimes like a solid, depending on how you touch it. Students tested its unique properties, asked “what if” questions, and made predictions as they explored the science of states of matter. It was a messy, laughter-filled day in the lab, and a perfect example of how curiosity leads to discovery!
St. Giles School Annual Sponsorship Program
We’re excited to invite you to be a part of something truly special at St. Giles School! Our Lion’s Leap Fun Run is on October 3 - and we’d love for you to be a part of the fun! By becoming a sponsor, you’ll help us raise money for important campus improvements, new academic programs, and expanded tuition support for families in need. In return, your business will be recognized in big ways - your logo will be featured around campus, in our newsletters, and on our school’s social media pages throughout the year. We’d love to talk more about sponsorship opportunities and how we can partner with you this year. Please feel free to reach out to us directly at (708) 383-6279 or visit www.stgilesschool.org and click “Giving” to Donate!
Sponsor Levels & Benefits
CATHOLIC VALUES SPONSOR ($1,500)
- Company logo displayed at Lion’s Leap and Black & Gold Pride, school website and parish bulletin.
- Verbal recognition at Black & Gold Pride.
- Dedicated social media post and inclusion in the end-of-the-year thank you social media post.
LIFELONG LEADERSHIP SPONSOR ($750)
- Company name listed at Lion’s Leap and Black & Gold Pride, school website and parish bulletin.
- Inclusion in the end-of-the-year thank you social media post.
COMMUNITY BUILDER SPONSOR ($500)
- Company name listed at Lion’s Leap and Black & Gold Pride, school website and parish bulletin.
- Inclusion in the end-of-the-year thank you social media post.
Spirit and Light - Religious Education Registration
We’re excited to announce that registration is now open! Sessions began the week of September 7! For more information about our programs and calendars, please visit our website.
How to receive an Electronic Registration Form:
- For families who had a child registered in our program during the 2024-2025 school year - On August 6, 2025, we sent via email an electronic registration form to all families through our Flocknote platform from our “Spirit and Light” Religious Education Office. If you did not receive an email on August 6, please contact us at slreligioused@spiritandlightcenter.org.
- New families to the program - Please click on the link below and follow the prompts.
We’re excited to see familiar faces and new ones this Fall!
Thank you,
The Faith Formation Team
Fall Sessions for First Communion Preparation for Older Children in 4th through 8th Grade
Children who are in 4th Grade through 8th Grade and have not yet received their First Communion are welcome to join with their peers to prepare for celebrating the sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion during the Fall.
Sessions begin on Monday, October 20, and will continue on Mondays through mid-December. All sessions will meet at 4:30 PM at the Saint Giles Campus Parish Center at 1025 Columbian Avenue.
There will be a parent information meeting on Monday, October 6, at 7 pm at the St. Giles Parish Center.
Children who attend all preparation sessions and celebrate their first Reconciliation during the course of the sessions will be able to celebrate their First Communion at any of the weekend Masses in the churches in our two parishes of Ascension and Saint Edmund or Saint Catherine of Siena-Saint Lucy and Saint Giles.
For more information, please contact Rachel Faulman at rfaulman@spiritandlightcenter.org, or at (708) 383-3430, ext. 421
OCIA Companion Sponsor
A Companion Sponsor for OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults) is a parishioner who would like to accompany a person who is preparing to receive the sacraments. While the individual will have a formal sponsor who they choose, a Companion Sponsor plays a vital role in helping the person understand what it means to live as a Catholic and assist in integrating the individual into the life of the Catholic community.
A Companion Sponsor is expected to connect with the person one or two times each month. Activities may include (but aren’t limited to) the following:
- Attend mass together
- Share a meal
- Go to speakers or other events in the Oak Park Catholic parishes
- Go to a Catholic baptism, funeral, or wedding
- Take a walk
- Talk about faith
- Participate in volunteer service
Companion Sponsors will receive training prior to being paired with an individual and will continue to be supported while they work with a person.
If you are interested or have questions, please contact Marci Madary at mmadary@spiritandlightcenter.org.
If you are interested or have questions, please contact Marci Madary at mmadary@spiritandlightcenter.org.
Welcome to the HIGH SCHOOL Confirmation under the auspices of Spirit and Light Collaborative - We are excited to welcome you and journey with your son/daughter (in High School) as they prepare to be Confirmed. Spirit and Light is privileged to help the youth prepare for Confirmation through the communities of Family, Parish, and Youth Ministry. We accompany young people and engage them in encounters. We witness a living faith, and we provide space for prayer, faith growth, service, and reflection. We build our preparation ministries around the person of Christ. Then it is all the Holy Spirit, who has plans for all our young people.
- Tuition Rates for the 2025-2026 Year - $95.00 per teen due at registration - Supplies are included in the registration fee.
- Payments may be made by cash, check, or credit card - If payment is made by cash or check, please drop it off at the Ascension and St. Edmund Parish Office (808 S. East Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60304) or at the St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish Office (1025 N. Columbian Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302) - Make sure to put your son/daughter's name on the envelope and state / write on it “High School Confirmation Registration Fee" - Payment by check should be made to: Spirit and Light HS Confirmation.
Please email Maria (Cooky) Perez-Eraci, Catechist for HS Confirmation and Director of Youth Ministry, at mperezeraci@spiritandlightcenter.org if you have any questions.
Mass Intentions for 2025 and 2026
Those wishing to schedule a Mass for the intention of someone who has died or for special intentions may come to the Parish Center to do so. Masses will be scheduled on a first-come basis.
There are three intentions open for each Mass (except where the intention of the parish “All Parishioners and Benefactors” appears).
All Holy days and all holidays are designated for the intentions of the parish; no individual intentions may be added to those days.
Please contact the Parish Center with any requests that you may have.
GiveCentral - Online Contributions
An easy and convenient way to help St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Parish continue our Mission. Use any major credit card or link to your bank account.
Thank you to all who continue to support our Unified Parish of St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles. It is appreciated and critical to maintain and operate all that we do. Those wishing to make their donations online through GiveCentral can find the link and easy-to-follow-instructions on the church websites. Contact Carol Coleman at the Parish Center, (708) 383-3430 ext. 419, with any questions or for assistance. We could not be here without you!
Planned Giving
Have You “insured” Our Parish? - Do you have a life insurance policy you no longer need? Please consider instructing your life insurance agent to include Saint Catherine of Siena-Saint Lucy and Saint Giles as a primary or secondary beneficiary on your policy.
It costs nothing to change the beneficiary on your policy and will mean everything to our future parish community.
For more information, please contact your financial planner, attorney, or insurance representative. If you have additional questions, please contact Carol Coleman at (708) 383-3430, ext. 419 or ccoleman@stgilesparish.org, or contact, Deacon Greg Vogt, Philanthropy Officer, Archdiocese of Chicago at (312) 995-0686 or gvogt@archchicago.org.
EVENTS THIS WEEK
16th Annual Parish Rummage Sale
Come to the BEST RUMMAGE SALE EVER at Gleeson Building (2nd level- McDonough Hall) - St. Giles Campus - 1101 Columbian Avenue in Oak Park, IL
Sale Dates and Times:
- TODAY - Friday, September 19 from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- THIS Saturday, September 20 from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM and with a bag sale from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Questions or to Volunteer:
Contact the Coordinators:
- Marlene Panebianco at (708) 431-8115 or Marlene117@att.net
- Carol Rossi at (773) 237-5804 or cg12345b@yahoo.com
ATTENTION - All Women of St. Giles/SC-SL - Change is Good!
Since the early 1990's, CCW (Council of Catholic Women) has been bringing the women of our parishes together through social and spiritual gatherings and fundraising efforts. We made friends while connecting to our faith community.
Over the past few years, attendance at CCW events and participation at the leadership level have decreased. Women of both St. Giles and St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy met to discuss how best to address this change. After much discussion, the following themes came out:
- Women want to continue to gather for faith and fellowship.
- The current structure of CCW does not work today.
- We feel more women of all ages will participate if we do away with the Board, Committees, etc, model and rely on different women working on events on their own time.
We will call ourselves The Women of St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles. Our first gathering will be TODAY - Friday, September 19, 2025, prior to the courtyard concert!
Other events planned include the following:
- Annual Coat Drive
- The Sharing Tree
- Christmas party on Thursday, December 11, 2025
- Barefoot Contessa on Saturday, January 31, 2026
- A Springtime Social and Service Day
This is an exciting time for the women of our community as we adapt to the changing demands of women’s time.
If you are interested in helping with any events or have ideas or suggestions please reach out to Elsa DePalma at elsadepalma@gmail.com.
Courtyard Concert at Saint Giles
Come to the last Summer Concert in the courtyard at Saint Giles Church! - Our very own “Minivinia” season features our favorite musicians from our parish community.
The final concert of the season will take place on TODAY - Friday, September 19 at 7:00 PM and will feature the Island of Misfit Toys with Jay Harris. The Island of Misfit Toys is an Oak Park-based band playing your favorite hits from the 70s to today.
Bring your chairs, blankets, and refreshments to enjoy on the lawn of the Saint Giles Courtyard. Admission is free.
The final concert of the season will take place on TODAY - Friday, September 19 at 7:00 PM and will feature the Island of Misfit Toys with Jay Harris. The Island of Misfit Toys is an Oak Park-based band playing your favorite hits from the 70s to today.
Bring your chairs, blankets, and refreshments to enjoy on the lawn of the Saint Giles Courtyard. Admission is free.
“Are You Ready to do the Hard Things?” - Season 3
All are invited! Please join Faith and Film Ministry at St. Edmund’s Murphy Hall after the 5:00 PM Mass on the following Saturdays to WATCH – LEARN – DISCUSS – Season 3 of The CHOSEN.
Season 3 Viewing Dates and Episodes:
- September 20 - Homecoming
- September 27 - Two by Two
- October 4 - Physician, Heal Yourself
- November 15 - Clean, part 1
- November 22 - Clean, part 2
- December 13 - Intensity in Tent City
- January 3 - Ears to Hear
- January 10 - Sustenance
Admission is Free - For Sale: Sandwiches and Movie Snack
Questions? - Please email Mari Hans, Faith and Film Ministry Co-Leader, at marithans@comcast.net
Faith and Film Ministry Presents "Carlo Acutis, Roadmap to Reality"
A special showing of the movie, Carlo Acutis Roadmap to Reality will take place following the 9:15 AM Mass THIS Sunday, September 21 at Saint Edmund Church. We will meet in Murphy Hall on the Saint Edmund Campus. Please plan to join us.
Carlo Acutis Roadmap to Reality explores the life and legacy of Saint Carlo Acutis and how he navigated the modern world. It tackles urgent technology-related questions, examining how the virtual landscape threatens our fundamental understanding of what it means to be human. The film also tracks the journey of a group of high school students who embark on a two-week pilgrimage from North Dakota to Italy to visit Carlo's tomb. A requirement for their Pilgrimage: disengage from technology and leave their phones at home.
The film features Carlo's family and friends sharing their firsthand experiences and his impact on their lives. It also includes well-known voices in the Catholic Church and technology experts who offer a model for young people to engage in the digital world.
Welcoming Ministry Gathering - All are Welcome!
Do you feel that St. Catherine-St. Lucy and St. Giles needs to be a place of belonging? Would you like to find a way to bring a little hope and light into the parish?
Consider joining the Welcoming Ministry as a Greeter!
Greeters are parishioners who:
- Open doors, smile and greet all who come to Mass.
- Work with the Ushers and Hospitality ministers to ensure that each person who enters feels as comfortable and at home as possible.
- Have a loving heart and a welcoming spirit.
If you are a greeter, usher, or hospitality minister - or if you would LIKE to serve in one of these ministries, come to the Welcoming Ministry Gathering on Monday, September 22 at 6:00 PM in McDonough Hall - Dinner will be provided!
Contact Julie Denise, cdenisj@yahoo.com to be added to the ministry!
Wednesday Night Bible Study - Experiencing the Psalms
The St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles Wednesday Night Bible Study is starting a new series on the Psalms!
The psalms display the full color of the human experience and relationship with God. By diving into selected psalms - examining the context, reflecting on our own experiences and what they mean for us today - we will deepen how we pray with the psalms and draw closer to God.
Bible Study started on Wednesday, September 10. We meet on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM in the Saint Giles Campus - Parish Center Living Room (1025 Columbian Avenue) and over Zoom.
All are welcome from any parish or community - It is NOT necessary or required to attend each week. There is no need to have Bible Study experience… Come when you can!!
The psalms display the full color of the human experience and relationship with God. By diving into selected psalms - examining the context, reflecting on our own experiences and what they mean for us today - we will deepen how we pray with the psalms and draw closer to God.
Bible Study started on Wednesday, September 10. We meet on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM in the Saint Giles Campus - Parish Center Living Room (1025 Columbian Avenue) and over Zoom.
All are welcome from any parish or community - It is NOT necessary or required to attend each week. There is no need to have Bible Study experience… Come when you can!!
Please contact Maria Samatas (msamatas@me.com) or Alex Ryan (alexryan@stgilesparish.org) to get all the information.
Rest and Resilience - Finding The Sacred Within
Take time to rest and restore your resilience. Experience the grace of healing moments. Encounter the sacred that is always within you. Connect with a friendly community of women. All women of the parish are welcome.
Family Mass Community’s Annual Women’s Retreat on September 26 to September 28 at LaSalle Manor Retreat Center in Plano, Illinois
- Friday to Sunday: 2 nights, 4 meals - $240
- Saturday and Sunday: 1 night, 3 meals - $210
- Saturday only: 2 meals - $115
REGISTRATION:
Online at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/womensretreat2025 or contact: Kathy Flanagan at kathymflan@aol.com or 312-659-2789.
Novena for Life
October is Respect Life Month. The Saint Giles Respect Life Committee invites you to pray with us for a greater respect for life in our country and our world. We will be praying the Novena to Our Lady of the Rosary beginning September 28.
There are two ways to pray: with daily email reminders or with a paper copy of the Novena. The copies will be in the vestibule of the Church on the weekend of September 20 and 21.
On Thursday, October 16, we will gather in Saint Giles Church to pray the Holy Hour for Life. Please join us!
If you have any questions, please call Denise Hartney at (708) 203-7437, or email at dhartney14@gmail.com.
Weekly and Regular Parish Highlights
- Parish AA Group meets in-person on Tuesday Nights
8:00-8:30 PM - 3rd Floor of Parish Center (St. Giles) - Read More... - Eucharistic Adoration on Thursday Nights
7:00-8:00 PM - St. Giles Church - Read More... - Praying the Rosary on Zoom on Fridays at 7:00 PM
Join Deacon Kevin and Marci Morgan on Zoom to pray the Rosary on Friday evenings at 7:00 PM - https://us02web.zoom.us/ - Meeting ID: 865 8895 7490 - Passcode: 634955
SOCIAL OUTREACH UPDATE
St. Giles Rectory Dinner Program
We need one volunteer every Monday to deliver a home cooked meal for the men of the rectory. It does not need to be fancy… dinners made with the love are the best!
There are no dietary restrictions. Your meal (for 3-4 people) can include a salad, entree, sides, dessert – whatever you want to prepare and deliver. Please drop off your dinner at the rectory between 3 PM – 5 PM and use containers that do not need to be returned to you.
On behalf of our priests, a huge thank you – this is a treat that they look forward to and appreciate so much.
- We have opened up the sign-ups for September through November 2025 – You can sign up by using the link below.
- Questions – Vera Chan at verachan@me.com or by text at (312) 909-4501.
Housing Forward Volunteer Opportunity
Housing Forward provides year round emergency overnight shelter for those experiencing homelessness in two locations in our community. The parishes of Oak Park support this effort in several ways.
In October, Housing Forward will be expanding its shelter options with the opening of a new 40-bed shelter at 112 S. Humphrey in Oak Park. They are once again asking the women of St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles to help by providing a continental breakfast for Housing Forward clients on the first Monday of each month, starting in October. This is a great service opportunity for teens and families, and can be shared between households.
Next opportunity to volunteer on October 6, 2025 - Sign up for the monthly dates are online by using the SignUpGenius Form below!
To learn more about the shelter program, and volunteer opportunities, contact Theresa Lipo at (708) 692-4404 or tglipo@sbcglobal.net.
Become an Advocate at The Neighborhood Bridge!
We are recruiting volunteers to serve as Advocates - trained companions who walk alongside families as they navigate services and pursue their goals. This unique role provides meaningful one-on-one support and connection.
To learn more, we invite you to attend our next Bridge Breakfast on October 4 at 8:30 AM in the Tutoring Center at Maguire Hall.
Learn more at theneighborhoodbridge.org/volunteer or contact Jeanne Gallo at jeanne.gallo@theneighborhoodbridge.org.
The Neighborhood Bridge, born out of the Renew My Church initiative, is dedicated to connecting Austin families with the services they need to thrive.
Migrant Ministry Update - Hope Sometimes Hard to Find
While not officially a part of the Migrant Ministry program many of our parishioners attend the Friday morning 7:15 AM Prayer Vigil at the Broadview Processing Center, 1930 Beach Street. Migrants continue to be detained there usually sleeping on the floor with little access to bathrooms. Recently this time and location has become a focus for protestors because that is the time migrants are bused to the airport for deportation.
On a recent Friday morning, the road was blocked, windows boarded up, a full contingent of media was there and many protestors, mostly young - but some of retired age and even one family with three small children. The crowd was noisy but quiet as we held the prayer service, except when ICE officers arrived or departed. The noisiest time was when a full contingent of about 20 National Guardsmen marched out in full battle gear including weapons.
On a recent Friday morning, the road was blocked, windows boarded up, a full contingent of media was there and many protestors, mostly young - but some of retired age and even one family with three small children. The crowd was noisy but quiet as we held the prayer service, except when ICE officers arrived or departed. The noisiest time was when a full contingent of about 20 National Guardsmen marched out in full battle gear including weapons.
And yet this week at Centro San Edmundo, we continue to provide clothing, breakfast, toiletries, and help with immigration forms. The migrants are always so grateful. One of our resettled men came this week to apply for a work permit. He is a very young man with a young family who is trying to help several friends with young children. We are proud of him and of our housing program which supports him.
Pivoting has been our hallmark in the Migrant Ministry. Services in the Saint Edmund school building will end on October 9, and we hope to move to another space. Until further notice, we paused donations on Monday, September 15. Immigration has moved across the street to Murphy Hall, and we are still seeking a location for the “free stores.”
Pivoting has been our hallmark in the Migrant Ministry. Services in the Saint Edmund school building will end on October 9, and we hope to move to another space. Until further notice, we paused donations on Monday, September 15. Immigration has moved across the street to Murphy Hall, and we are still seeking a location for the “free stores.”
Our work would not be possible without the volunteers and your generous donations. We are currently no longer accepting donations of clothing or other items. Financial donations are always welcome and much needed.
For more information, email immigrantministry@gmail.com.
To donate online through GiveCentral use the link below OR send donations to Saint Catherine-Saint Lucy and Saint Giles Parish, 1025 Columbian, Oak Park, IL 60302. Include a note that the donation is for the “Migrant Ministry”. Thank you for your generous hearts!
Housing Forward Needs You!
Housing Forward’s new permanent emergency shelter for 40 guests is scheduled to open in October at 112 S. Humphrey in Oak Park. Many hands and hearts are needed to prepare for welcoming the guests.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
- Dinner Providers - Prepare hot dinner meal for 40 to be dropped off by 7:00 PM. Dinner providers can also volunteer for evening hosting if they want to stay and serve.
- Breakfast Providers - Donate breakfast supplies for 40 (cereal, fruit, juice, yogurt, etc.).
- Lunch Providers - Donate bagged lunches for 40 (sandwiches, chips, fruit, cookies, etc.) for guests to take with them when leaving the shelter the next day.
- Evening Hosting - 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM (shift can be split) - Interact with guests, set up, and clean up.
- Morning Hosting - 6:00 AM to 8:00 AM - Assist with breakfast and clean-up.
Both INDIVIDUAL and GROUP volunteers are welcome and much needed.
Volunteers can sign up for one day, a few days, or ideally for an ongoing monthly commitment.
Interested in volunteering or learning more? Contact Cherrell Jackson at cjackson@housingforward.org or via phone at (708) 338-1724 ext. 201
WANT TO HELP BUT CAN’T VOLUNTEER?
Housing Forward needs supplies to help stock the shelter. Please consider purchasing a NEW housewarming item at the link below as we prepare to welcome people into the new space.
“When I was Hungry, You Gave Me to Eat.”
MEAL DONATIONS - The Homeless Shelter has experienced an all-time low in meal donations for the homeless and Housing Forward has not received sufficient donations of meals. It’s not typical to have a shelter all year-round and when one thinks of a shelter one thinks more of the dark, cold winter months. Now that the shelter is year-round, the guests at the shelter desperately need your help not only with volunteering but also with donations for meals.
MONETARY DONATIONS - The shelter has gone well in large part due to the support of many volunteers who helped with meals and other needed essentials. The monetary donations received are very helpful as well. If you would like to help, please send a gift to the office with “Shelter donation” marked on the envelope OR you can make a donation online by using the button below. Any donation will be welcomed!
OTHER FUTURE EVENTS
Special Senior Mass to begin Season 2025-2026
ATTENTION - CHANGE OF DATE! - The first meeting for our Seniors has been rescheduled, so our year will start on Tuesday, September 30, with a special 11:30 AM Mass celebrated by Father Tom at Saint Giles Church.
After Mass, a light lunch will be provided in McDonough Hall. If you would like to bring a dessert to share, please feel free to do so. Beverages (ice tea, coffee and soda) will be provided.
We will have time to share stories, laughter, conversation and renew friendships. We will also be collecting our membership dues ($25) for this new season. We hope to see all of you after our summer break. Bring a friend! All are welcome!
Please RSVP to Joan Wojcik at (708) 771-4783.
The Alpha Course - At the Table, Explore Life and Faith Meaning!
Curious about Faith? Curious about Alpha? Is the Bible relevant today? Is there more to life than this? Do you ever pray? Who was Jesus? What does faith mean to you?
If you are looking for a place to share a meal, watch an interesting video and wrestle with questions at the core of faith and life – come and see! At Alpha, you can ask anything - It's a safe space to question life, faith, and meaning. You're invited no matter your background or beliefs. Alpha is free, and there's no pressure to come back.
Alpha gatherings are held on Tuesdays beginning on September 30, at 6:30 PM in Murphy Hall of St. Edmund Site (188 S. Oak Park Avenue).
All are welcome – invite a friend, spread the word. Click on the sign-up form below for more information or to register!
If you are looking for a place to share a meal, watch an interesting video and wrestle with questions at the core of faith and life – come and see! At Alpha, you can ask anything - It's a safe space to question life, faith, and meaning. You're invited no matter your background or beliefs. Alpha is free, and there's no pressure to come back.
Alpha gatherings are held on Tuesdays beginning on September 30, at 6:30 PM in Murphy Hall of St. Edmund Site (188 S. Oak Park Avenue).
All are welcome – invite a friend, spread the word. Click on the sign-up form below for more information or to register!
Sponsored by the Spirit and Light evangelization team, serving both Ascension and St. Edmund and St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy and St. Giles parishes.
Email at alexryan@spiritandlightcenter.org with any questions.
Email at alexryan@spiritandlightcenter.org with any questions.
Be A Pilgrim of Hope and Bless Your Pets!
Saturday, October 4 is the feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, and it is the day when we bless our pet friends.
This is a Jubilee Year so we are all Pilgrims of Hope. To bring our hearts together, all are invited to gather at 3:00 PM in the Courtyard to pray and sing as we honor Creation. Those who are able will walk around the block in solidarity.
Following our block pilgrimage, the Blessing of the Pets, with Deacon John, will begin at 3:30 PM in the Courtyard.
Spiritual Classics for October: Saint Francis de Sales and His Way of Divine Love
Come to the next Spiritual Classics gathering on Tuesday, October 7 at 7:00 PM in the Ascension Parish Center Dining Room, where we will discuss Saint Francis de Sales’ inspirational classic, An Introduction to the Devout Life. Jeff Wood will lead the discussion. All Oak Park parishes are welcome.
An Introduction to the Devout Life, written over four hundred years ago, inspires and guides Catholics in pursuing a holy life. De Sales thought that the holy life was accessible to all people at all ages and in all times. He uses clear, simple language and provides vivid references to images in nature and daily life. At the heart of his message is the conviction that God has made us for himself and that Jesus offers himself in prayer and sacrament as we grow closer to God.
Saint Francis de Sales was born into a noble French family, studied law and theology, and decided against his father’s wishes to become a priest. He became the Bishop of Geneva, Switzerland during a time of battles between Protestants and Catholics, yet he achieved a universal reputation for patience and gentleness. He developed a sign language in order to preach to the deaf and he is the patron saint of the deaf.
Being Bridges Presentation - Archdiocesan Immigration Ministry
Thursday, October 9, 2025 - 7:00 PM at Assumption Parish, 323 West Illinois Street, Chicago, IL 60654
Join us for the third evening in our inspiring series of presentations exploring the spirituality and theology of welcoming marginalized persons in our midst.
Presenter - Steven Millies, Ph.D. - Professor of Public Theology and Director of The Bernardin Center at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.
Steven Millies is a scholar whose work explores the Catholic Church’s relationship with politics through an interdisciplinary lens that includes theology, history, ethics, sociology, and political theory. Responding to Pope Francis’s call for a more integral and compassionate politics, Millies emphasizes our shared responsibility for one another and the world. He holds a doctorate in political theory from The Catholic University of America and previously served as the Strom Thurmond Endowed Chair in Political Science at the University of South Carolina Aiken. Now at Catholic Theological Union, he is the author of Joseph Bernardin: Seeking Common Ground, which won a Catholic Press Association award. He contributes regularly to national publications and is active in several scholarly societies. Millies is at work on his fourth book, a Catholic theological reflection on constitutional government, under the working title – A House for All Peoples: Roman Catholicism and the Modern Constitutional State.
No registration is needed for in person attendance.
For more information or questions, contact Mary Lou Matheke at mmatheke@archchicago.org or (312) 534-8054.
Tuesdays with Paul - Fun Faith Formation for 7th and 8th Grade Students
Spirit and Light Collaborative is offering a new opportunity this year! Once a month on Tuesdays from 6:45 PM to 8:00 PM in the Ursuline Center at Ascension School, Paul Rubio, a dedicated catechist and faith-filled person, will hold a special session for 7th and 8th Grade Students. It will be a time to learn about faith and to encounter God in a transformative way!
Schedule 2025-2026
- October 21 – Theology of the Body
- November 11 – The Eucharist
- January 6 – The Christmas Season and the Incarnation
- February 24 – Champions of Faith Documentary
- March 24 – Lent
- April 21 – Easter Season and Alive in Christ
The following is a reflection from Paul Rubio:
"Nearly 20 years ago, I was a student in the RE program and attended weekly classes on Tuesday evenings at Ascension.
After college, I returned to the RE program to be a catechist-teacher. For 12 years I taught on Tuesday evenings. With great joy, I have handed on the faith to the students in my classes. We learned so much in those classes, including the liturgical seasons of the year and what they mean for us, the Sacred Tradition of the Church, the holy words of God in the Bible, the saints, the sacraments, the Creed, and what it means to put our faith into action. The students offered thoughtful responses to questions I posed to get them thinking about topics of faith and also were creative and thoughtful in activities like writing notes of affirmation to family and people who serve them, and even collages of the Exultet.
I am so grateful to God for all I have experienced during all those Tuesday evenings over the course of 12 years.
Now I look ahead to a new opportunity on Tuesday evenings as I lead special sessions called "Tuesdays with Paul". Similar to what has happened for the past 12 years, I will lead a time of learning once a month for 7th and 8th graders, touching upon many of the aforementioned topics I listed. During our time, we will learn about faith so that we encounter God in a transformative way."
Questions? - For more information, contact Marci Madary, Director of Spirit and Light, at mmadary@spiritandlightcenter.org.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS AND OPPORTUNITIES TO BE INVOLVED
Resource Document for Caregivers available from the Knights of Columbus
Our local council of the Knights of Columbus has completed its resource document for those caring for ailing or elderly loved ones. The document includes information on individual caregivers as well as agencies and offers insights from those who have provided or arranged for care for an elderly or ailing loved one.
The Ascension Council of the Knights of Columbus invites anyone who would like to receive the document, or offer additional insights to it, to send an email to KnightsCaregiverProject@gmail.com. We hope to collect additional names of caregivers or agencies used and recommendations by fellow parishioners so that we can regularly update the document. Please help us do so. And thank you to those who have already provided input!
Creation Care Corner - Weekly Stewardship Recommendation
"The pace of consumption, waste and environmental change… can only precipitate catastrophes…,” “Truly much can be done!” – Pope Francis
Electric Vehicles: A Creation Care Benefit or Harm?
Transportation emissions in the United States are a huge source of both air pollution and carbon emissions. Any car, whether it has an internal combustion engine (ICE) or whether it’s fully electric (EV) also has a heavy carbon footprint related to its manufacture. The longer you can keep from buying a new car and make use of the old one, the better. Reducing the number of cars your family uses is better yet. As such, purchasing an EV will not solve climate change, but it could help significantly.
When it’s time to acquire a new vehicle, drivers minimize their footprint by purchasing the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the class of vehicle they really need. EVs have a heavier carbon footprint in manufacture than an ICE vehicle. But after 2 years of average driving (about 25,000 miles) that higher carbon manufacturing disadvantage goes away, and the EV becomes a “cleaner” option in “cradle-to-grave” and “well-to-wheel” carbon emissions. According to the US Dept. of Energy, electric vehicles today produce 46% fewer GHGs than comparable gasoline powered vehicles on a life cycle basis.
When it’s time to acquire a new vehicle, drivers minimize their footprint by purchasing the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the class of vehicle they really need. EVs have a heavier carbon footprint in manufacture than an ICE vehicle. But after 2 years of average driving (about 25,000 miles) that higher carbon manufacturing disadvantage goes away, and the EV becomes a “cleaner” option in “cradle-to-grave” and “well-to-wheel” carbon emissions. According to the US Dept. of Energy, electric vehicles today produce 46% fewer GHGs than comparable gasoline powered vehicles on a life cycle basis.
