Parish Penance Service

posted: Wednesday 2/22/2012

The Lenten Penance Service will be on Wednesday, March 7 at 7:00pm.

Respect for Life News

posted: Wednesday 2/22/2012

We urgently need legislation to correct the HHS mandate's threats to religious liberty and conscience rights. The Respect for Rights of Conscience Act has been introduced in Congress (H.R. 1179, S. 1467) to ensure that those who participate in the market for health insurance "retain the right to provide, purchase, or enroll in health coverage that is consistent with their religious beliefs and moral convictions."

ACTION: Contact your U.S. Representative by e-mail, phone, or FAX letter: Call the U.S. Capitol switchboard at 202-224-3121, or call your Members' local offices; Send your e-mail to Congress through www.usccb.org/conscience; Additional contact info can be found on Members' web sites at www.house.gov and www.senate.gov.

Highland LifeCare Center

posted: Wednesday 2/22/2012

The Highland LifeCare Center is in need of gently used/new baby items. We are currently very low on winter clothes sizes birth to 3T and other baby equipment. Donations can be brought to our center located at 1999 Ford Parkway. Our hours are Monday-Friday, 9-3 and Saturday, 8:30-2. Sorry, we do not take baby gates. Questions, please call 651-695-0111. Your help is greatly appreciated.

Forty Days For Life

posted: Wednesday 2/22/2012

Saint Mark's parish has been asked to participate in the 40 Days For Life in two ways. The first is to pray and fast during Lent (February 22 through April 1) for the end of abortion in our land and neighborhood. The second way to participate is to pray along with Catholics from Nativity and Lumen Christi outside the new Planned Parenthood site at 675 Vandalia in St. Paul on Wednesday, March 21. Find a friend or family member to pray alongside for one hour of the 24 hours and register on-line at www.40daysforlife.com/twincities. The 40 Days For Life is a worldwide pro-life campaign of prayer, fasting and peaceful vigil/witness.

Parish Festival Country Store

posted: Wednesday 2/22/2012

In anticipation of spring and the Parish Festival in May, we are planning a few crafting Saturdays, February 25, March 3, and March 31 in Carolyn Hall from 9am to 12noon. If you have some items you're working on to contribute, feel free to join us and share your time and talent.

If you want to help, but don't know where to start, join us and we will have some items there that we could use help creating. Questions - call Kadi at 647-4477 or Terry at 644-0341.

School Registration Due March 1

posted: Wednesday 2/22/2012

Registration for students attending Saint Mark's for the 2012-13, our centennial school year, are due by Thursday, March 1st. Please send in your registration on time. If you have questions or need more information, please call Barb Sonntag in the school office - 651-644-3380. Don't forget our new 'refer a family' program. It could save you and a friend $500 in tuition for the next two years. If you are new to Saint Mark's and would like a personal tour or registration materials, please contact our principal Molly Whinnery, also at 651-644-3380.

Wanted: Site-Coordinator for Sustainable Agriculture at St. Mark's

posted: Tuesday 2/14/2012

Do you like fresh organically grown vegetables all summer long? Are you interested in getting involved in the "local food movement" and in "Church supported agriculture" in St. Paul/Minneapolis? If so, consider becoming the next site-coordinator for "sustainable agriculture" at Saint Mark's. The duties are minimal and the rewards are edible! Please contact Paul Wojda at pauljwojda@gmail.com for more information.

Lent at the Church of Saint Mark

posted: Monday 2/13/2012

Ash Wednesday
Lent begins Ash Wednesday, February 22. Mass at 10:00am and 7:00pm. Ashes will be blessed and distributed during mass.

The ashes are made from palm leaves left over from Palm Sunday of the previous year and are blessed on Ash Wednesday with incense and the sign of the cross. The custom of marking the head with ashes on Ash Wednesday is said to have originated during the papacy of Gregory the Great (590-604). At first, only public penitents received the ashes.

Fasting & Abstinence
The Christian faithful are to do penance through prayer, fasting, abstinence and by exercising works of piety and charity. All Fridays through the year, and especially during Lent, are penitential days.
Abstinence: All who have reached their 14th birthday are to abstain from eating meat on Ash Wednesday and all Fridays during Lent.
Fasting: All those who are 18 and older, until their 59th birthday, are to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday.

Lenten Friday Evenings at Saint Mark's
Special Dinners: Fish Feed February 24 & March 23 from 4:30-7pm in the school cafeteria; Soup Suppers March 2, 9, 16 & 30 from 5:30-6:30pm in Carolyn Hall.
The Catholicism Project: Awaited with much enthusiasm, Saint Mark's will offer the awesome opportunity to watch Fr. Robert Barron's DVD series every Friday, February 24 through March 30 from 6:30-7:30pm in the Lower Church. The series will continue into the Easter Season.
Stations of the Cross: Every Friday, February 24 through March 30 at 7:30pm in the Upper Church.

Parish Penance Service
Wednesday, March 7 at 7:00pm

Luncheon, Style Show & Silent Auction

posted: Thursday 2/9/2012

The Council of Catholic Women Luncheon, Style Show & Silent Auction will be held at the Town And Country Club at 11am, Saturday March 24. The always popular spring luncheon will soon be here and this will be a good one. Fashions this year will be presented by Coldwater Creek, so get your friends together so you don't miss out on what will be the newest in spring and summer attire. In addition, you will have the opportunity to place a bid on a unique treasure at the silent auction. And back again this year will be Jane Cagle-Kemp, selling her beautiful jewelry designs. Watch for your invitations to be in the mail in the next few weeks.

We welcome your donations to the silent auction and they can be brought to the Parish Center or for pick-up, you can call Mary at 651-998-1223. We particularly appreciate your vintage and antique linens, china, silver, jewelry, etc. Items can be also brought to the Town and Country Club before 10am on the day of the luncheon. The proceeds from the silent auction go the the Madonna Plan which helps to fund programs for low-income women in third world countries.

Community Theatre Presents "Rock Around the Block"

posted: Wednesday 2/1/2012

It's back to the 50's as the Saint Mark's Community Theatre presents "Rock Around the Block", a musical comedy. Doors open at 7:00pm. Performances are 7:30pm, February 17 and 18. Tickets $5.00–$9.00. Soda Shop Concessions & Adult Beverages will be available for purchase. Theatre entrance Marshall Avenue at Prior Avenue, St. Paul. For ticket information, contact Doni at 651-645-1460 or Lori Koltes at laurie.koltes@gmail.com. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Families with Children ages 1–5 & in grades 1–3

posted: Saturday 1/28/2012

9:00am Mass Has You Covered!

After a busy week of getting your baby or young children in snow pants, boots, hats and mittens, changing diapers or helping with homework, maybe you would like a chance to relax, pray and re-fuel for the joyful but exhausting call of parenting! Did you know that during the 9:00 am Mass we offer:

Nursery for children ages 1–3
Located in the basement, NE corner of the church. Drop off any time before or during Mass. Contact Sharon Suess for more information.

Sunday School for Preschoolers and Kindergarteners
Classes meet in the school, during Mass. Registration required. Contact Keely Wojda for more information.

Liturgy of the Word for Children for 1st–3rd graders
Children are dismissed from Mass and go with leaders to the Lower Church during the Liturgy of the Word. No registration is required. Parents are welcome if you would like to experience it for yourself!

Justice & Peace Committee

posted: Friday 1/27/2012

We'll be attending the Legislative Briefing on Thursday, February 2, at Lumen Christi Church, 2055 Bohland Avenue in St. Paul. 7:00—8:30pm. Come learn about issues affecting people in poverty and how we can take action! Join the Office for Social Justice for a presentation of Catholic Charities 2012 policy agenda. We will explore issues including housing, healthcare, and voting rights. OSJ staff will provide data, stories and the information you need to bring your message back to elected leaders and your communities. Prepare yourself to be a powerful advocate!

Boy Scout Pancake Breakfast & Bake Sale

posted: Friday 1/27/2012

On Sunday, February 5 Boy Scout Troop One will host their annual pancake breakfast from 8am to 1:00pm in the school cafeteria. Cost is $20 per family (up to 4), adults $6 and children under 12 years old $5.

Calling All Catholic Men

posted: Friday 1/27/2012

Saturday, March 31
8am to 12noon

Come to this year's Men's Conference to pray and learn with Archbishop Neinstedt. The featured speaker is Matthew Kelly, who has a talent for igniting enthusiasm and inspiring men to live their Catholic Faith to the fullest. In addition, there will be breakfast, opportunity for confession, adoration, and mass with the Archbishop. For more information and to register go to www.archspm.org or call 651-291-4488.

Men from Saint Mark's will be meeting in the St. Mark's parking lot at 6:45am on March 31 to carpool down to the Cathedral for the event.

Day of Recollection for Caregivers

posted: Friday 1/27/2012

On Saturday, February 18, there is a Day of Recollection for Caregivers (those who live with, work with or regularly visits persons with serious illnesses or disabilities). It will be held at the Church of the Annunciation in Minneapolis from 9:30am to 2pm and includes a presentation by Fr. Jim Livingston, mass, sacrament of reconciliation and lunch. The cost is $15. Register by February 10 with Deacon Curtan at 651-291-4543 or curtans@archspm.org.

Martha and Mary Craft Guild

posted: Friday 1/27/2012

Join other women in the parish for the Martha and Mary Craft Guild. We will enjoy our creative gifts, pray together, relax and have fun! Coffee and rolls will be served. Bring a craft you are currently working on, or learn something new. Supplies will be provided. Our next meeting will be February 11 from 8:40 to 10:00am at the Parish Center. No need to pre-register—all women in the parish are welcome!

Father Jan Michael Joncas

posted: Friday 1/20/2012

The Saint Paul Catholic Speaker Series

Wednesday, February 1
7:00pm
Lumen Christi Community Room

This year Saint Mark's parish is part of this four-parish adult education series. Our third talk of the year will be presented by Fr. Jan Michael Joncas (composer of the favorite hymn, "On Eagle's Wings"). His presentation "Suffering, Healing and Transformation" A reflection on Fr. Joncas' experience with Guillain-Barre and the music that came out of that experience. Refreshments and conversation starting at 8:30.

The talk is open to the public. A $5 donation at the door is suggested.

Annual Saint Mark's Card Party

posted: Friday 1/20/2012

What do Minnesotans crave in the heart of winter? Good ol' comfort food followed by a friendly game of cards or rousing rounds of Bunco! Join us Saturday, February 4 in Carolyn Hall for both. Tater Tot Hot Dish served at 1:00pm followed by Bridge, 500, Cribbage or Bunco. And, of course, fantastic door prizes. Come one, come all (no partners necessary for this mixer event). Cost $6. Contact Jane or Terry Cagle-Kemp at 651-487-1585 or janecagle@msn.com for reservations.

Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration

posted: Thursday 1/12/2012

Spend time with the Lord in quiet and prayer. To assure the Blessed Sacrament is never left unattended the goal is to have two people scheduled as Adorers for each hour. We still have hours that are in need of an Adorer or two. For more information and to sign up, please contact Anne Duffy through the Parish Center, 645-5717.

If you're not signed up, please join us any time during adoration hours.

Calling All Future Markers

posted: Thursday 1/12/2012

Join us for Saint Mark's Preschool and Kindergarten Round–Up Monday, January 23 from 7–8:30pm in Carolyn Hall.

Learn about Saint Mark's comprehensive early learning offerings, hear from current parents, tour the school and much more. Free child-care available!

Help Wanted for Soup Suppers

posted: Thursday 1/12/2012

Lent will be here before we know it—time to start planning for Soup Suppers! If your group would like to sponsor a supper, please call Keely at 651-645-5717 or email at kwojda@saintmark-mn.org.

March for Life

posted: Thursday 1/12/2012

Sunday, January 22, 2012 is the 39th anniversary of Roe v. Wade. Events scheduled to pray for and support the right to life for the unborn include: Mass For Life at the Cathedral at 12 noon with Archbishop Nienstedt, MCCL March for Life at 2pm at the State Capitol, and Prayer Vigil outside the Planned Parenthood in St. Paul (675 Vandalia St.) 3:30–4:40pm.

Cana Couples

posted: Thursday 1/12/2012

The Cana Program is seeking additional volunteer mentor couples to help engaged couples prepare for marriage. Current mentors say they find their own marriage enriched as they work through the "Prepare" process with engaged couples. Training is provided. For more information, please join us at coffee and donuts after Sunday Masses on January 22nd.

"The Spiritual Pilgrimage of Dorothy Day"

posted: Thursday 1/12/2012

The first meeting of the Council of 2012 of the Catholic Women will be Saturday, January 21 at 10am, in Carolyn Hall. After a short business meeting, Dr. Anne Klejment, history professor from the University of Saint Thomas, will present "The Spiritual Pilgrimage of Dorothy Day". Dr. Klejment is active in promoting the Canonization of Dorothy Day. A light lunch will follow. Everyone is invited. If you are in need of childcare for the meeting, please contact Vickie at 644-7724.

"Making Abortion Unthinkable"

posted: Wednesday 1/4/2012

By Josh Brahm, director of education and public relations for Right to Life of Central California, 7pm Thursday, January 12 at Nativity of Our Lord, St. Paul. Josh Brahm produces YouTube videos and hosts "Life Report: Pro-Life Talk. Real World Answers," youth-oriented weekly netcast at www.prolifepodcast.net. Josh is passionate about reaching young people through new media and about helping people explain the pro-life position in smart, effective ways, while also dialoguing respectfully with people who disagree. He is a young man who has a gift for reaching young audiences. He is well informed yet is able to make his case with kindness, humility, and gentle humor. High school and college students are especially welcome. Free admission. Sponsored by Nativity and the Archdiocesan Office of Marriage, Family and Life.

Men's Breakfast

posted: Wednesday 1/4/2012

Saint Mark's men have a weekly meeting to read scripture and share a breakfast. Come join other men of the parish at 7:00am on Saturday mornings at Trotter's, on the corner of Cleveland and Marshall. Call John Shrake at (651) 646-2247 for more information. Bring a Bible. See you there!

Youth Group News

posted: Sunday 1/1/2012

If you want to be a part of Middle School Youth Group, contact Paeter Wait at petra.espera@gmail.com or Maria Willkom at mcwillkom@gmail.com. The plan for Middle School Youth Group for the New Year is:

NET Lifeline Mass the first Saturday of the month.
Youth Group, 6:30 to 8pm the 2nd Sunday of the month.
Youth Group Meeting or event the 4th Sunday of the month.

So…Middle School Youth Group will go to NET Mass on Saturday, January 7. Meet in the parking lot at 5pm. Permission slips are on the Youth Ministry bulletin board. And, Middle School meets Sunday, January 15 from 6:30 to 8pm in Carolyn Hall.

Baptism Enrichment Nights

posted: Sunday 1/1/2012

Baptism Enrichment Nights (BEN) will take place on January 9, 19, and 23 at 6:30pm in the Parish Center. If you plan on baptizing a baby here at Saint Mark's in the next few months, these classes are for you! Please call Keely at the Parish Center at 645-5717 to register.

Saint Mark's GALA – Wacky Wedding

posted: Sunday 1/1/2012

Saturday, February 11, 2012

6:00 to 11:00pm Saint Mark's Gym

The Gala is a great night of community building and auction bidding to support our school. It is seriously fun! If you are a newbie, ask an oldie to fill you in on the setup. The theme this year is a Wacky Wedding theme. At saint Mark's, this means you can rent a tux, get a bridesmaid dress at Ragstock, or come as a wedding guest who likes sweat pants. This is what we love about our community: all are welcome.

How Can you Join In The Fun?

You can donate goods, services or money to help us build an awesome auction. You can invite your friends, but tickets, and be ready to bid, and/or you can volunteer to work the night of the auction. If you have any questions about the GALA, do not hesitate to contact Betsy Hand at bjosterhand@gmail.com.

Bowling Event/Tournament

posted: Thursday 12/15/2011

There is a group of men from the parishes listed below who are organizing a bowling event/tournament.

We are looking for a contact person from Saint Mark's School or parish who would organize a team from Saint Mark's and help with the organization of the event. If you are interested, please contact Danny Kieffer as soon as possible. Danny.kieffer@markerspride.com

Date: January 8, 2012, 5:00 to 10:00 p.m.
Location: Ram Ham Bowl, Randolph and Hamline
What: Bowling competition/fundraiser
Who: Men of Nativity of Our Lord, Saint Mark's, Holy Spirit, Lumen Christi, and St. Francis/St. James parishes.

New Banners Promote Saint Mark's

posted: Thursday 12/15/2011

The first of two banner poles has been installed with banners to promote the school and parish. Banners promoting the school can now be seen at the corner of Marshall and Prior Avenues.

The effort to get the pole and banners in place was made possible with generous support from members of the school and parish community. The second pole will be installed next spring.

An anonymous, extremely generous donation was made specifically for the purchase of banner poles. This donation set the plans for promoting the school and parish in motion. Gracious funding by the CCW made banners for the poles possible.

In addition to the anonymous donors and the CCW, members of Saint Mark's Building and Grounds Committee were instrumental in getting the poles installed. Kevin Adelgren, Chris Pozega, Pete Kessler, Dave Schmidt, and Mike Hougo worked together to set the pole.

Take a moment and check out the banners when you pass by the school gymnasium.

Christmas Caroling

posted: Thursday 12/15/2011

Come join us for an evening of Christmas Caroling to our neighbors on Wednesday, December 21! Young and old, families and singles are invited to join 6 families (our small church community) who have been caroling together for the past 20 years. Last year we were delighted to have many new people join us! We will start with a potluck dinner in Carolyn Hall from 5:30 to 6:30 (please bring a warm casserole to share) followed by Christmas caroling 6:30 to 7:30 (or until our toes go numb!). Warm beverages will be provided. Bring a flash light, jingle bells, and warm clothes. For questions contact Patti Shrake through the Parish Center.

Christmas Layettes

posted: Friday 12/9/2011

We will be gathering layette items again this year on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. All donations will go to Highland Life Care Center to assist women needing help with clothing their babies, newborn through 2 years. The current needs are: baby wipes, size 5 diapers, socks, size 0-3 onesies and sleepers. However, all items will be welcomed and used. Please bring items to the 4:30pm Christmas Eve service or the 10:00am Christmas Day service. As we celebrate the birh of our dear savior, let us remember those babies who need our help.

Christmas Schedule

posted: Saturday 12/3/2011

Advent Lessons And Carols

posted: Wednesday 11/30/2011

Sunday, December 4, 4:00pm

Enjoy this free recipe for an Advent treat: Begin with Advent scripture lessons read by our lectors, music that compliments them sung by our Festival Choir, congregation and angelic Children's Choir. Blind in pipe organ, bells, incense and candles. Sprinkle in some prayers and top it off with a cozy reception. Treat yourself to a retreat from the hectic pace of the season; slow down, and reflect on the beautiful, hopeful teachings of Advent. For a little over an hour you will enjoy basking in the true meaning of the season as our parish lectors, adult and children's choirs present Lessons and Carols on Sunday December 4 at 4:00pm.

Video clips from Lessons and Carols 2009

Christmas Wreaths and Swags

posted: Wednesday 11/30/2011

Christmas Wreaths and Swags will be for sale after the Sunday Masses on the Weekend of December 3 and 4. Saint Mark's Athletic Department benefits from the sale of these beautiful Christmas Wreaths and Swags.

Help Wanted for Youth Ministries

posted: Wednesday 11/30/2011

Our Youth Ministry teams for High School and Middle School are looking for a Communications coordinator. We've got really great programs for our youth, but we need help getting the word out to help students and parents stay informed. This is a great volunteer opportunity that you can do from the comfort of your own home, in front of your own computer! Call Keely Wojda at 645-5717 for more information.

St. Mark's Community Theatre Auditions

posted: Wednesday 11/30/2011

Auditions for St. Mark's Community Theatre Adult Play will be Monday, December 5 from 7-8:30pm in Carolyn Hall. This is much earlier this year than usual. To participate you must have graduated from 8th grade and be a member of St. Mark's or a parent of a St. Mark's student. Faculty and Staff are also welcome. Don't want to sing - dance - join us anyway we can always use help painting, sewing and constructing. The performance dates are February 17 and 18, 2012.

Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

posted: Tuesday 11/29/2011

Thursday, December 8
(a holy day of obligation)
Mass at 10am & 7pm
"Chosen by God, Mary reverses the sin of Eve. Because of her obedience, God's salvation is made known to all the nations."

Community Outing to Ballet Minnesota's The Classic Nutcracker

posted: Tuesday 11/29/2011

Come join Saint Mark's home schoolers, senior citizens and anyone else who can sneak away for a truly magical morning! (And see parishioner ballerina, Mary Shrake.) We are organizing a community group to attend the Friday, December 16, 10am school performance. Tickets are only $6 (group rate).

You must call the Parish Center or email pattishrake@usfamily.net to register by 12/11 as Patti has to purchase all the tickets (non-refundable) in advance. We will meet at Saint Mark's at 9:15am and car pool to O'Shaughnessy Auditorium at St. Catherine's. Contact Patti Shrake with any questions at 651-646-2247.

Fair Trade Sale after Masses November 26/27

posted: Wednesday 11/16/2011

We will be selling Fair Trade Coffee from San Lucas Toliman for just $10/lb. St. Mark's has a partnership with a parish in Kitui, Kenya and we will be promoting that connection by selling Fair Trade goods crafted in Kenya. We have a wide variety of clothing, jewelry, toys, and craft items. There is a great selection of items with a wide range of prices—this is a great opportunity to do some Christmas shopping and to know that your purchases help artisans support their families.

Fight Poverty in America

posted: Wednesday 11/16/2011

Nearly 1 in 10 senior citizens lives below the national poverty level. Over 3000 children are homeless in Minnesota on a given night. Please give generously today to the Catholic Campaign for Human Development. It is a program started here in this Archdiocese which has become a nationwide effort to fund programs in communities across the US. People join together to identify problems and find ways to improve their own lives and neighborhoods. You may drop your envelope in the regular collection basket or take home an envelope and bring it in next Sunday. 25% of what we take in remains locally and is distributed in 2012. The applicants will be reviewed and awarded by our Archbishops Advisory Board. Please be generous - you will make a difference.

Evening of Enrichment

posted: Wednesday 11/16/2011

All women of Saint Mark's are invited to an Evening of Enrichment with Vicki Kueppers on Tuesday, November 28 at Holy Spirit School - The Commons Area - 515 S. Albert St, St. Paul. Social at 6:30 pm; Program from 7-8pm. Vicki is a Catholic singer and songwriter. She will sing music from her CD "Advent Reflections" and talk about how we can become "the light that shines in the darkness" and tell about her experiences that led her away from the Catholic Church and her journey back. Vicki traveled to the Holy Land with Jeff Cavins, leading music for the pilgrimage. She produces CDs and DVDs for Baby Genius products. This Evening of Enrichment with an Advent theme is sponsored by the St. Paul Deaneries Council of Catholic Women. No reservations are necessary. A donation of $5 is suggested.

Christmas Cookie Sale and Boutique

posted: Wednesday 11/16/2011

Friday, December 9 from 1:00–5:00pm
Saturday, December 10 from 9:00am–6:00pm
Sunday, December 11 from 9:00am–1:00pm

Come and pick up your homemade tin of
Christmas Cookies and Candy

Gifts and Decorations for your home
New and Used and very reasonably priced!

If you would like to donate cookies or candy, please drop off your treats on Friday, 9am–5pm or Saturday, 9am–Noon

Questions–
Connie Hoye, 646-4418
Lou Noren, 645-8114
Missy Hughes, 645-8831

National Night of Prayer for Life

posted: Wednesday 11/16/2011

Do you believe in the power of prayer? More is accomplished by prayer than we can imagine! This evening of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, hourly rosary and prayer unites the feast of the Immaculate Conception with the Feast of St. Juan Diego and will be held on December 8 (Thursday) and December 9 (Friday). Our Lady of Guadeloupe is patroness of the Americas and the unborn and this evening is set aside to pray through her intercession for a Culture of Life in our land. Please join us for any amount of the 4 hour vigil as we pray together with other Catholic churches throughout America.

Men's Retreat

posted: Wednesday 11/16/2011

Please consider joining a group of Saint Mark's men for a pre-Christmas retreat at the Franciscan Retreat Center in Prior Lake. This year's retreat will be from Friday evening, December 9 through Sunday morning, December 11. It will be led by Archbishop Harry Flynn. Follow this link for more information or contact Don Kieffer at 651-647-9937 or Pat Sweeney at 651-645-5142 for an enthusiastic invitation to join us.

Eucharistic Adoration Begins At Saint Mark's

posted: Wednesday 11/16/2011

Sign up now for an hour of Eucharistic Adoration which will begin January 1, 2012. Hours are available Mondays after the 10am Mass, continuing 24 hours a day, until Saturdays prior to the 8am Mass. Come and spend an hour with Jesus before the Blessed Sacrament. For more information and to sign up, please call Anne Duffy at 651-646-8154.

Gingerbread Boys and Girls

posted: Tuesday 11/15/2011

Children entering Preschool or Kindergarten in the Fall of 2012 are invited to experience the Saint Mark's difference the morning of December 2nd from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. During this exciting event, the children will participate in gingerbread related activities including stories, songs, and art project and a special snack. Parents will meet with the School's principal and current parents to learn more about Saint Mark's wonderful Preschool and Kindergarten offerings.

Contact the School Office at 651-644-3380 for more information. If you know of other families with children who will be entering Preschool or Kindergarten next Fall, please invite them as well.

A Child's True Christmas

posted: Tuesday 11/15/2011

On Saturday, December 3, Saint Mark's Council of Catholic Women will sponsor a Christmas program for children and their parents and grandparents to experience the true meaning of Christmas and the joy of giving. Meet in Saint Mark's School Cafeteria from 11am to 2pm where children will have the opportunity to make Christmas gifts and crafts, purchase gifts in our "Children Only Store," create Christmas cards for Saint Mark's homebound and nursing home residents, and enjoy a soup and macaroni & cheese lunch. Lunch will be served for a donation of $1.00 with all proceeds going to the Heifer Project International, a wonderful self-help organization.

If you would like to help, we would appreciate items for the "Children Only Store" - small new or very gently used items for every member of the family (especially men's gifts.) Items may be left at the Parish Center. Also, if you would like to help the children in making gifts and crafts, please call Kathleen Olson at 612-727-3392. This is a wonderful way to begin the Christmas Season.

Revised Missal Update

posted:Tuesday 11/15/2011

Emmaus

posted: Monday 11/7/2011

"Stay with us" (Luke 24: 29) These words reflect the deepest yearning of the human heart. Like the disciples of Emmaus, after encountering Christ we cannot say anything but: Stay with us! He who sees His face is simply astounded by His infinite beauty and finds in it the fulfillment of all his desires. Emmaus is an opportunity to have an encounter with Jesus, just as the disciples of Emmaus did. After this night of adoration, confessions, praise and worship we will only be able to say: Stay with us Lord!

On every 3rd Friday of the month starting on November 18th, from 7:00pm to 8:30pm we will come together as a family to worship the one true God, Jesus Christ truly present in the Most Blessed Sacrament of the Altar!

Council of Catholic Women Meeting & Luncheon

posted:Wednesday 11/2/2011

Everyone is invited to our next meeting of the Saint Mark's Council of Catholic Women. A short business meeting will be held on Saturday, November 19 at 10am in Carolyn Hall followed by a presentation by author Patrick Mader. Mr. Mader has written several children's books on family life on a Midwest farm. His presentation "From Seed to Harvest" will be followed by lunch. Child care will be provided upon request.

Please call Vickie at 644-7724 by Thursday, November 17. We hope to see you there.

St. Paul Deanery Council of Catholic Women

posted: Wednesday 11/2/2011

The Second Quarterly Meeting will be held on Thursday, November 17 at the Church of St. John the Evangelist, 380 Little Canada Road, Little Canada. Registration and coffee from 8am to 8:45. Business meeting, program, Mass at noon, followed by lunch. The speaker will be Fr. John Paul Erickson who will address the subject of the current changes in the Mass.

Phone reservation must be made by Noon on Friday, November 11 to Nancy at 651-644-2260. Saint Mark's CCW will cover the $12 cost for all Saint Mark's women attending. Please notify Nancy if you must cancel as we must pay for no shows.

Festival Choir for Advent and Christmas

posted: Wednesday 11/2/2011

Festival Choir is the expanded seasonal choir open to singers high school age and older. Rehearsals are generally held on Thursday nights at 6:30pm in the church. Rehearsals for Advent and Christmas begin on Thursday, November 10. New and returning singers are warmly invited to participate.

Please contact Cindy Holupchinski at 645-5717 for more detailed information.

Stewardship

posted: Saturday 10/29/2011

Thanks to all those parishioners who have pledged financial support for st. Mark's Parish.

If you have not yet made a pledge, please prayerfully reflect on the message we have been hearing in Father Humberto's letter and in his homilies. That message is:
—We all have an obligation to return to God some of what we have been privileged to receive. We can never be more generous with God than he has been with us.
—Our parish is making tremendous strides toward sustainability. It is growing and becoming more vibrant in many, many ways. But we can not expect St. Mark's to survive and thrive long-term unless we sacrifice to support it.
—Think about, celebrate, and tell your friends and neighbors about all the ways this parish praises God and serves the people around us.

If you need a pledge form, you can find one in the church entrances. It is also available below.

Please prayerfully consider all that we, as individuals and as a parish community, have received from God. St. Mark's is a great parish that we have inherited. Now it is our turn. We must maintain and grow St. Mark's in appreciation for those who worked so hard before us, and for those Markers who will come after us.

2012 Stewardship Commitment Form

The Stewardship Committee
Jana Hayden-Sofio, Laurie Koltes, Mark Manderfeld, John Mayhew, Jim Nordquist, Joe Peterson, Karen Ritchie, Tony Ritchie, Pat Shrake, Pat Sweeney, Tom Swords, Bob Tibesar, Bob Tranmer

Family First Fridays

posted: 10/25/2011

The Saint Mark's Friday Couples' Group invites you to our monthly gathering, Family First Fridays, on Friday, November 4th in Carolyn Hall. Doors will open at 5:30 and we will begin serving dinner at 6:00. All are welcome. We'll gather for a meal and conversation about faith and family life. Then we will head over to the church to spend time in Eucharistic Adoration and/or Confession. Wondering what to do with your kids? Bring them! There's child care after dinner, and the kids will learn songs and prayers for adoration. They are then invited to join us in front of the Blessed Sacrament. A main course will be provided, but bring a salad (last names A-M) or dessert (last names N-Z) to share. Contact the Parish Center with questions.

Volunteers Needed
The young families organizing the Family First Friday events are looking for individual volunteers or volunteers from other parish organizations who might be willing to occasionally provide dinner for our monthly events so that we can invite a large group of families together to fellowship during a meal in an economical, communal and efficient way. If you or your organization is interested, please contact Anna Witham at 612-816-6803 or annawitham@gmail.com.

Become One Body, One Spirit In Christ

posted: Tuesday 10/25/2011

On the weekends of November 5-6 and 12-13, the Adult Education Committee will be showing the DVD from the United States Council of Catholic Bishops called, Become One Body, One Spirit In Christ on the Revised Roman Missal and the New Translation. We will be showing parts of this DVD after all Masses on those two weekends and taking some time to discuss the content.

NET Lifeline Mass

posted: Tuesday 10/25/2011

NET Lifeline Mass for Middle School and High School is Saturday, November 5. Meet in the parking lot at 5:15pm with the signed permission slip and $7 for pizza and pop. Don't miss this chance to attend Mass with Great music and 1000 youth from all over the Archdiocese!

Father John Paul Erickson

posted: Tuesday 10/25/2011

And With Your Spirit:

The History and Theology of the

New Translation of the Roman Missal

The second presentation in the St. Paul Catholic Speaker Series is Tuesday, November 15 at 7:00pm here at Saint Mark's in the Lower Church. A $5 donation is suggested. Refreshments will be served afterwards in Carolyn Hall.

Wine and Cheese Party

posted: Tuesday 10/25/2011

All women of Saint Mark's are invited to a Wine and Cheese Party on Saturday evening, November 12 at 7pm in the Community Room at Saint Mark's. Come enjoy lively conversation with old friends and new, and sample a variety of wines, specialty cheeses and mouthwatering appetizers. There is no cost to attend, though donations will be accepted to help cover the costs. Please call Jane Cagle-Kemp at 651-645-1585 or janecagle@msn.com if you'd like to bring an appetizer or help with party set-up. Sponsored by St. Mark's CCW.

Justice and Peace Committee News

posted: Tuesday 10/25/2011

The next Justice and Peace Meeting will be November 7 in the Community Room of the church. We will be planning for our Fair Trade Sale which will be held November 26 and 27 and will feature fair trade coffee and a wide variety of clothing and craft items from Kitui, Kenya. Members of the Justice and Peace committee will also attend the Social Justice Meet-up on November 10 at Lumen Christi Parish from 7 to 8:30pm

October 30 is Girl Scout Sunday

posted: Tuesday 10/25/2011

There are over 100 girls at Saint Mark's Parish involved in Girl Scouts ranging from kindergarten through high school.

In Girl Scouts, we develop leadership skills, strong values, social conscience and conviction about our own potential and self worth. We work on community service projects, mentor younger troops, and participate in a wide variety of activities.

Our cookie fundraiser helps us to try new adventures such as horseback riding, whitewater rafting, SCUBA diving, canoeing and camping, as just a few examples. We are girls of courage, confidence and character who make our community and our world a better place. Thank you for your continued support.

St. Mark's Girl Scouts will be hosting Coffee and Donuts after the Sunday Masses. Come look at our displays showing some of the exciting things we do in scouting. We do a lot more than sell cookies!

Catholic Studies Overnight

posted: Thursday 10/20/2011

The Department of Catholic Studies at the University of St. Thomas is sponsoring its Catholic Women's and Men's Floors Overnight. Experience community life and Catholic culture at the University of St. Thomas by hanging out with current and prospective students, attending a Catholic Studies class and the annual Catholic Studies Talent Show.

Who:
Any high school senior interested in learning more about our Catholic-focus floors and faith life at St. Thomas.

Where:
University of St. Thomas—St. Paul, Minn.

When:
9 a.m. Friday, November 18 through 10 a.m. Saturday, November 19

Spaces are limited. To reserve a spot contact Theresa Kutz via phone, (651) 962-5704; or email, trkutz@stthomas.edu.

All Souls' Day

The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed

posted: Wednesday 10/19/2011

All Souls' Day, November 2, is a Feast wherein we remember—in a special way—all those brothers and sisters in Christ who were buried from Saint Mark's in the past year. There will be a Mass on Wednesday, November 2 at 7pm at Saint Mark's for them and for any of your loved ones who have died.

We hope you will be able to join us in this special Mass of Remembrance. We invite any family members and friends who would care to join you.

After Mass, we will have an opportunity to gather for conversation and refreshments in the Community Room of the church.

C.A.R.E.–a–thon Striving for $36,000

posted: Wednesday 10/19/2011

A strong Catholic education was once free for the asking. Now, tuition is over $4,000 per child, even with generous support from our parish. As of last count, our pew envelope drive is down from past years by about 70% and we don't know if we'll make the money our school needs to support students and staff this year.

When our teams set out on C.A.R.E.-a-thon Day, we tell them "remember you are Markers—you represent all the Markers who came before you, and all the Markers who will follow you—Go Markers!!" C.A.R.E.-a-thon envelopes are back in pews this weekend, with hopes that you will join us as one continuous line of Markers, and support our school with a donation of any size. Go Markers!!

If you missed the pew envelopes, you can use your own envelope and drop it off at the Parish Center or in next week's collection basket—just label it for C.A.R.E.-a-thon. Thank you!

Family First Fridays

posted: Wednesday 10/19/2011

The Saint Mark's Friday Couples' Group invites you to the Family First Fridays at 6pm in Carolyn Hall. All are welcome. We'll gather for a meal and conversation about faith and family life. Then we will head over to the Church to spend time in Eucharistic Adoration. Wondering what to do with your kids? Bring them! There's child care and the kids will learn songs and prayers for adoration and then come join us in front of the Blessed Sacrament. A main course will be provided, but bring a salad (last names A-M) or dessert (last names N-Z) to share. Contact the Parish Center, 645-5717, with questions.

Stewardship

posted: Wednesday 10/19/2011

Last weekend was our parish Stewardship Weekend. Thanks to all who returned their pledges. Thanks to everyone who supports St. Mark's with prayers, with volunteer service and with financial contributions. Our parish needs them all. If you did not bring your pledge to Mass, please bring it next week or mail it to the Parish Office. Later this year, we will have an opportunity to sign up to take part in the many, many ways in which Saint Mark's parishioners serve God, our parish and the people around us through our time and talents initiative.

The Stewardship Committee
Jana Hayden-Sofio, Laurie Koltes, Mark Manderfeld, John Mayhew, Jim Nordquist, Joe Peterson, Karen Ritchie, Tony Ritchie, Pat Shrake, Pat Sweeney, Tom Swords, Bob Tibesar, Bob Tranmer

Justice and Peace Committee News

posted: Monday 10/17/2011

Project Home Update: Every year since 2001, Saint Mark's parish has been a Project Home site during the month of August, offering overnight emergency shelter for families experiencing homelessness. According to Sara Liegl, Project Home Director from the St. Paul Area Council of Churches, we hosted 29 families during August. This includes 31 adults and 49 children, some of whom stayed one night in our shelter, others who were there for three weeks. We couldn't have done it without you and we appreciate your efforts to welcome these families in their time of need.

Fair Trade Sale News: The Justice and Peace Committee will host a Fair Trade Sale featuring goods from our sister Parish in Kitui, Kenya on November 26 & 27.

Music and the Roman Missal

posted: Monday 10/17/2011

The Revised Roman Missal will affect prayers and acclamations sung in the Mass. This means learning new musical settings of what is known as the Ordinary of the Mass: Penitential Act, Kyrie, Gloria, Holy, Memorial Acclamation, Amen, Agnus Dei, and potentially the Creed and the Lord's Prayer.

There will be numerous options available in the coming months and years as composers and publishers work to create new melodies that fit the revised texts. The missal itself contains simple chants for the sung parts of the Mass, and these will be used in all of the Masses at Saint Mark's for several weeks beginning in Advent. This will be a helpful way to become comfortable with the changes in the prayers and will unify our congregation by knowing at least one setting of the Ordinary in common. The various music groups will be preparing alternate settings which will be introduced after the new year. Because the Gloria is not sung on Sundays during Advent, Archbishop Nienstedt has approved its early implementation (when sung). Before the end of October the new Gloria will be introduced and used during Sunday Masses at Saint Mark's.

Practice videos are available to help you become familiar with the text and music of the missal. Please use them to begin learning this new music.

Council of Catholic Women

posted: Monday 10/17/2011

Some may think that Saint Mark's CCW is a group of older women who clean the church and prepare funeral luncheons, but they do so much more! The role of the CCW, which was founded in 1918, is to promote prayer, educate parish women in the goals set forth by the Council of Bishops, and to help the parish in any way needed.

Saint Mark's CCW holds 4 or 5 general meetings a year, sponsors a parish wide Morning of Reflection, programs like the May crowning of the Blessed Virgin and A Child's True Christmas that focus on the children of our parish, and several fundraising activities. Monies from the two rummage sales, the spring silent auction, and the Christmas Boutique and Cookie Sale go to our parish and organizations promoting our Catholic values (Life Care Centers, Water for Life, the Madonna Plan, Birthright, etc.) Funding also goes to our school (scholarships and special program needs.)

The CCW membership is aging. In order to continue the CCW role at Saint Mark's, all women are invited to join and become active members. An envelope is enclosed in your donation packet. Dues are $5.00…a small price to pay for membership in such a rewarding organization.

School Oktoberfest

posted: Monday 10/17/2011

Friday, October 28
4:30 to 7pm
School Cafeteria

German beer and wine
Brats, hot dogs, potato salad
Soft pretzels and cheese
Polka Contest
Kids' Games and Prizes

Father Larry Richards

posted: Tuesday 10/11/2011

What? Talks and Mass
Where? University of St. Thomas and St. John Vianney College Seminary
2115 Summit Avenue
Contact: Very Rev. Michael C. Becker, Jr.
Phone: 651-962-6837

Talk on Thursday evening from 6pm to 7pm;
Mass on Friday morning at 7:15am
High School and College Students welcome

Talk on Friday evening from 7pm to 8pm
For College Students

Father Victor Warkulwiz, M.S.S.

posted: Tuesday 10/11/2011

We will have a special guest at the Masses on October 29 and 30 to speak on Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration.

Fr. Victor Warkulwiz from the Missionaries of the Blessed Sacrament, will be our guest speaking at all the Masses the weekend of October 30th on the benefits and necessity of Perpetual Adoration in our parish. Fr. Warkulwiz is currently residing in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at our Lady of Fatima Parish. Fr. Warkulwiz has taken his message of Perpetual Adoration to several hundred parishes in 36 states and Canada. He has dedicated himself to visiting a parish every weekend where the desire to establish perpetual adoration has been expressed. The fruits of his labor have been bountiful and include a spiritual renewal within each parish.

Please remember that Perpetual Adoration in a Parish is not just for a day, a week, a month or year. Rather it is for always. It is not temporary, but ongoing, lasting, permanent. Pope John Paul II says, "Our essential commitment in life is to grow spiritually in the climate of the Holy Eucharist." There is no greater love given to Catholics than Christ present in the Eucharist.

Please do not miss hearing Fr. Warkulwiz. His homily is most inspiring and has touched the hearts of thousands of Catholics in bringing them to a deeper understanding and love of the Blessed Sacrament.

"Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive
honor, glory, and praise" (APOC:12)

Pledge Sunday

posted: Monday 10/10/2011

"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want."
The 23rd Psalm

    Those words are a comforting reminder of the peace we experience as we "let go, and let God."
    Today we will hear these words in the Responsorial Psalm, and they probably will give us some measure of comfort and confidence. Then we are likely to revert to worrying about the economic slump that leaves all of us fearful about the security of our jobs, our savings, our futures and our children's futures.
    And, on top of those very legitimate worries, our parish comes to us with a request for stewardship, a plea that we keep supporting the Church of Saint Mark and to increase that support if we possibly can.
    How should we respond?
    The message from the Psalm is that we should worry a bit less, that we can be confident we are children of a loving God. The message is that loving God is caring for us and will continue to care for us.
    The stewardship message is a plea that we spend more time thinking about the many gifts we have received from God, and that we return to God and to our parish the "first fruits" of our labor. Stewardship rejects the notion that we must "have it all" or the concept that we ever can completely plan and prepare for our futures.
    Next Sunday, please be generous in your pledge to support Saint Mark's. Help us build on the great progress toward sustainability we have made in the last year. Please be confident that we never will give back to God more than he deserves.

Stewardship Letter from Father Palomino
2012 Stewardship Commitment Form

The Stewardship Committee
Jana Hayden-Sofio, Laurie Koltes, Mark Manderfeld, John Mayhew, Jim Nordquist, Joe Peterson, Karen Ritchie, Tony Ritchie, Pat Shrake, Pat Sweeney, Tom Swords, Bob Tibesar, Bob Tranmer

Calling All Markers

posted: Sunday 10/9/2011

We Want To Hear From You

Saint Mark's School Centennial is approaching fast. To help us prepare, we're calling on all alumni to share a favorite Saint Mark's School moment with us. Please send us a memorable story (and pictures if you have them) from your glory days as a proud St. Marker. Remember to include your name and the last year you attended our school. Send us an email at alumni@markerspride.com or write to us at: Alumni Relations, c/o Saint Mark's School, 1983 Dayton Ave., St. Paul, MN 55104

2011 Appalachia Mission Program

posted: Sunday, 10/9/2011

Another year has passed and it is time to respond to the Appalachian Christmas Program. Thank you for your generosity in past years to help stock the Christmas Free Store. The people of Kentucky really appreciate all of the wonderful gifts that people give and we send to Kentucky. The gifts are not wrapped so a family member can choose the gifts that meet their family's needs. Please be as generous as possible because for many families these are the only gifts they receive for Christmas. If you prefer to contribute money, your checks can be made out and mailed to: Fr. Mike Weglicki, Queen of All Saints Church & Mission, 90 Railroad Street, PO Box 563, Beattyville, KY 41311 OR Fr. Will Fraenzle, St. Francis of Assisi Church & Missions, 132 Bryan St (Keel Addition), Pikeville, KY 41501-1404.

Infants to 1 year of age: Diapers, pins, blankets, sleepers, crib mobiles, powder, lotion, shirts, rattles, teethers and other baby toys.
Toddlers: boots, pull toys, soft toys, cars & trucks, blocks, balls, dolls. (War toys or dangerous toys are discouraged)
Ages 6-12: books, games, marbles, jump ropes, coloring books & crayons, basic school supplies, cars & trucks, jacks, dolls, markers, socks and underwear. (No articles that can be damaged by freezing & avoid heavy items like canned goods, etc.)
Ages 12 to 16 and teenagers: games and puzzles, cosmetics, jewelry, sports equipment, batteries, music box, wallets, fishing equipment, camouflage vests, paint sets, toiletries, radios, watches, purses, large sweatshirts, socks & underwear, hunting clothes, balls (soccer, basketball, football, etc.)
For the Elderly: powder, slippers, billfolds, purses, shirts, nail clippers, blankets, sweat suits, lotion, socks & underwear, jewelry, scarves, bedding, towels, kitchen items.

Please leave items at Saint Mark's Parish from November 2nd until November 8.

High School Youth Group

posted: Sunday, 10/9/2011

The High School Youth Group meets every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month from 2:00 to 3:45pm. Food, discussion and games...bring a friend and contact Alex Marchetti with any questions at 203-984-9656.

Children's Choir

posted: Friday 9/30/2011

All children of the parish in grades 3-8 are invited and encouraged to participate in the Saint Mark's Children's Choir, led by church staff - Cindy Holupchinski (Director of Music) and Rory Cravillion (Organist).

A children's choir is a wonderful way to nurture the spiritual and musical growth of our young people, giving them the opportunity to participate in the liturgical life of the church while gaining musical skills.

Regular rehearsals will be held on Saturday mornings from 9:30 to 10:30am in the Community Room of the church.

Choir kick-off will be Saturday, October 8, from 9:30 to 12 noon. We will sing, play, pray, and eat together for a power start to the season.

Registration materials are available in the Parish Center, the School Office, and near the southwest entrance of the church (and below). Contact Cindy Holupchinski for more information.

Schedule and Registration

Boy Scout Troop One Pancake Breakfast & Bake Sale

posted: Friday 9/30/2011

Sunday, October 9 from 8:00am to 12:30pm
Saint Mark's School Cafeteria
Cost: Family $20 (up to 4)
Adults: $6
Children under 12: $5

Please support our Scouts and enjoy a wonderful breakfast at the same time!

Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament

posted: Friday 9/30/2011

Beginning October 7, Adoration will be from 10:30am to 8pm on Fridays. Confessions will be heard from 7-8pm.

Movie Night for Kids and Date Night for Parents

posted: Friday 9/30/2011

Make a 'date' on your calendars for Friday, October 7, 6:30 to 9pm. Saint Mark's 7th graders are hosting a movie night for $10 per child, $20 per family, $2 for snacks (popcorn & water) and/or $1 for a 'glo' stick. 'Rio' and classic cartoons will be shown in the St. Mark's Gym, along with face-painting. Children 4 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. This is a great opportunity to take time for yourself and contribute to the 2012 Washington, D.C. trip. Contact Patty Bowler at patty@oacefamily.com orJhna Lundin at paxmundi@comcast.net if you have questions.

Poster

Pledge Sunday

posted: Friday 9/30/2011

Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-9

    Those words are a comforting reminder of the peace we experience as we "let go, and let God."
    Over the next two weeks, all of us at Saint Mark's are going to be asked to again let go of some of our personal worries and plans and to practice stewardship for our parish.
    We will pray a stewardship prayer at Mass. We will hear a report from our Finance Committee that contains good news about Saint Mark's parishioners' sacrifices and generosity over the last year. That report also will include a strong reminder that we must continue sacrificing to keep our parish and school healthy.
    We will be asked by Father Humberto, in a letter and from the pulpit, to trust in God, to keep stretching our generosity, to be confident we never can give back to God more than He deserves. Father Humberto also will urge us to stop and savor the many, many ways in which our parish is thriving.
    On October 15 and 16, we will be asked to make a pledge of continued financial support for Saint Mark's. Later this year, we will have an opportunity to make a similar commitment to volunteer service to our community.
    As we prepare to make those commitments, please prayerfully consider all that God has given us and reflect on the many gifts we receive through our church and school.

The Stewardship Committee
Jana Hayden-Sofio, Laurie Koltes, Mark Manderfeld, John Mayhew, Jim Nordquist, Joe Peterson, Karen Ritchie, Tony Ritchie, Pat Shrake, Pat Sweeney, Tom Swords, Bob Tibesar, Bob Tranmer

Pledge Sunday

posted: Thursday 9/22/2011

Stewardship Committment Weekend
October 15 & 16

Please return your household committment form at Mass this weekend during the special collection. You may bring it the following weekend or mail it to the Parish Center. There are also electronic pledging methods available. Thank you for sharing your gifts with God and his Church.

New Altar Server Training

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

We have around 25 new altar servers this year, please support them with your prayers. Also, in order to complete the training, come to the Community Room on Saturday, September 24 at 10:30am. The altar servers ministry is a great way to promote devotion and reverence during our Sunday's Celebrations. We thank Br. Adam and Eileen Moore for all their efforts.

40 Days For Life Campaign

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

There will be another 40 Days For Life Campaign starting on September 28 and ending the first week in November. Saint Mark's is invited to join Nativity and Lumen Christi parishes to pray in front of Regions Hospital again on October 22 (Saturday). More details will be coming on how to sign up in order to pray in pairs for one of the hours in the 24 hour period, but in the meantime, please pray and fast for the end of abortion in the Twin Cities with other Christians starting September 28. For more information go to 40daysforlife.com.

For those who would like to help with the prayer vigil in front of Region's Hospital on October 22, please sign up. It is easy to sign up—just go to the date and sign up for one of the free hours (maybe with a friend). If you are unable to join us during the vigil, please continue to pray and fast through October for the end to abortion in the Twin Cities.

Spaghetti Feed

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

Friday, September 30 from 4:30 to 7pm in the School Cafeteria. Bring the family and enjoy a delicious meal of Spaghetti (red sauce), Tossed Salad, Bread and Dessert. $6 for adults, children under 12 $3. Pop, wine and beer are available for purchase.

Justice & Peace Committee Meeting

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

Monday, October 3 at 7:00pm in the Community Room. We will be planning our Fair Trade sale, which will be held on November 26 & 27, and planning other activities for the year. All are welcome.

We would like to acknowledge everyone who helped out with Project Home during August. We do not yet have the final count on how many families we served, but we know that we had more than 110 volunteers from Saint Mark's parish talking with parents, playing with children, serving meals, staying overnight and making our guests feel welcome. Your involvement plus the donations of money and of pajamas, socks, underwear, healthy food, tasty treats, and other necessities make this month-long ministry possible. Thank you!

Morning of Reflection

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

Saint Mark's CCW invites all men and women to a Fall Morning of Reflection on Saturday, October 15 from 9am to 1pm. Our spiritual director for the morning will be Fr. Joseph Bombenek. There will be presentations by Fr. Bombenek, Mass, time for quiet prayer and we will conclude with a luncheon. The cost is $8. Coffee and donuts with registration will be in Carolyn Hall from 8:15am to 8:45am that morning. Please contact Vickie D. or Eileen M. through the Parish Center, 645-5717, by October 9 to reserve a spot. All are welcome.

Courageous

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

Fr. Humberto wishes to invite the youth of the parish and their DADS to attend the new film, Courageous on Friday, September 30. Meet in the Saint Mark's gym at 6:30pm. Bring money for your ticket ($10.50 over 12, $7.50 12 and under) and money for snacks. Youth who attend without a parent will also need a signed permission slip. We will return to the gym after the movie, and the evening will be over at 10:00pm.

Permission Forms for youth events can be found on the Youth Ministry bulletin board in the Southeast entrance to the church and on the Youth Ministry bulletin board on the 2nd floor of the school. We also distribute them through school and Faith Formation classes, and through Youth Group meetings.

Family First Fridays

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

The Saint Mark's Friday Couples' Group invites you to the kick off for Family First Fridays on Friday, October 7 at 6pm in Carolyn Hall. All are welcome. We'll gather for a meal and conversation about faith and family life. Then we will head over to the Church to spend time in Eucharistic Adoration. Wondering what to do with your kids? Bring them! There's child care and the kids will learn songs and prayers for adoration and then come join us in front of the Blessed Sacrament. A main course will be provided, but bring a salad (last names A-M) or dessert (last names N-Z to share.

Baptism Enrichment Nights (BEN)

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

Baptism Enrichment Nights are designed to help parents of children baptizing their first child to understand the awesome commitment it is to present a child for Baptism, and, the awesome GIFT the sacrament of Baptism is to the newly baptized. Our next series of BEN will take place after the 9:00am Mass in the Community Room of the church. The dates are September 25, October 2 and October 9. For more information, or to sign up, please contact Keely Wojda.

The St. Paul Catholic Speaker Series

posted:Wednesday 9/21/2011

Saint Mark's is involved in a four-parish collaboration called "The St. Paul Catholic Speaker Series" along with Holy Spirit, Lumen Christi and Nativity of Our Lord. We have two events coming up this fall. There is no registration required—a $4.00 donation is suggested for each speaker. Mark your calendars!

The Poster for the St. Paul Catholic Speaker Series

Angels and Demons
Peter Kreeft
Saturday, October 15, 3:00pm
Holy Spirit Commons

And With Your Spirit: The History and Theology of the New Translation of the Roman Missal
Tuesday, November 15, 7:00pm
Church of Saint Mark

Special Collection on September 24 & 25 for the Cathedral

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

Please consider a sacrificial gift for this collection to assist with the remaining $6 million for the emergency exterior restoration as well as the need for $14 million to repair interior damage. Many thanks to all who contributed to last year's collection to care for our Mother Church. All gifts received in this special collection will be designated and restricted to the restoration needs of the Cathedral. Envelopes for this collection will be in the pews. Please make checks to the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneaplis. You can also donate online. For more information, call the Archdiocesan Development Office at 651-290-1610.

Martha and Mary Craft Guild

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

Join other women in the parish for the Martha and Mary Craft Guild. We will enjoy our creative gifts, pray together, relax and have fun! Coffee and rolls will be served. Bring a craft you are currently working on, or learn something new. Supplies will be provided. Our next Martha and Mary Craft Guild will be Saturday, October 1 from 8:40am to 10:00am at the Parish Center. No need to preregister—all women in the parish are welcome!

Welcome to the Seminarians

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

We will celebrate and welcome the Seminarians who have moved into the Convent at both the 9:00am and 11:00am Masses on Sunday, October 2. Coffee and Donuts will be served in Carolyn Hall after each Mass.

Liturgy Meeting

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

On September 26 at 7pm there will be a meeting for all liturgical ministers in Carolyn Hall. At the meeting we will discuss basic information about what the Archdiocesan expectations are for all ministries in the liturgy, in general and the changes that will take place within the Mass this Advent with regard to the "New Translation of the Roman Missal".

Altar Server Training

posted: Wednesday 9/21/2011

The Next Altar Server Training meeting will be held on October 8 from 10:30am to 12:30pm. Don't forget to bring your folders.
Poster

Saint Mark's Lost Souls Get Muddy

posted: Thursday 9/8/2011

Four members of Saint Mark's men's softball team, the Lost Souls, are digging into the mud this weekend for the Mud Run MS Twin Cities 2011 (a 10K run with military style obstacles), a down and dirty benefit of a fundraiser. This is sponsored by the National MS Society. And now, The Muddy Souls team is born: Steve Magnuson, Harry Bailey, Chris Enesvedt & Manny Palomo. Adopting the competitive division rule that every team member cross the finish line within 15 seconds of each other, the Muddy Souls are hoping their efforts not only help them cross the finish line, but also raise money for a great cause. If you'd like to donate, just go to the website, click donate; team:muddy souls. Whatever you can give will help. The Muddy Souls really appreciate your support and will keep you posted on our individual as well as collective progress. Thanks for your consideration.

Can We Do Your Yard Work for Free?

posted: Thursday 9/8/2011

The Saint Mark's School Marathon has become the C.A.R.E.–a–thon. We're focused on giving back to the parishioners and community of Saint Mark's, so instead of walking, we'll be working for free, hopefully for you!

On October 19, small multi-grade teams of students, teachers and parent volunteers will be working for parishioners and neighbors within walking distance of school. We can rake leaves, pull weeds, sweep sidewalks, and pick up sticks. With your direct supervision, we can plant your bulbs, split perennials, or dig out your faded tomato plants.

Sign up yourself, or recommend a friend's yard, by calling Sharon Suess at the Parish Center at 651-645-5717. You have given so much to the students of Saint Mark's School, now is our turn to give back and show you We Care.

St. Paul Deanery Council of Catholic Women

posted: Thursday 9/8/2011

The first quarterly meeting of the St. Paul Deanery Council of Catholic Women will be held on Thursday, September 15 at the Church of St. Peter, 1405 Hwy. 13, Mendota Heights, MN. Registration and coffee: 8am to 8:45am. Business meeting, program, Mass at Noon, followed by lunch. The meeting will feature the "ACCW On the Road" program. This program includes helpful information for parish CCWs such as ideas for increasing and retaining membership. Phone reservations must be made by Noon on Monday, September 12 to Nancy at 651-644-2260. Saint Mark's CCW will cover the $10 cost for all Saint Mark's women attending. Please notify Nancy if you must cancel as we must pay for no–shows.

Music Ministry

posted: Thursday 9/8/2011

Members of all music ensembles and the Saint Mark's Choir will begin in the fall with an evening together on Thursday, September 15 at 7pm in the church. The evening will include prayer, "Happy Hour," and joint rehearsal of the music from the revised Roman Missal. A special invitation is extended to those interested in joining one of our music ensembles or the choir. All please RSVP to Cindy Holupchinski at 651-645-5717, ext. 105 or cholupchinski@saintmark-mn.org.

Council of Catholic Women: September General Meeting

posted: Thursday 9/8/2011

The Council of Catholic Women kicks of a new year with our September General Meeting on Saturday, September 17 at 10am in Carolyn Hall. Please come and find out what this active, multi-generational women's group at Saint Mark's is all about! The short business meeting is followed by a special program and ends with lunch. Our program this month is Meet Our Karen Families. Last May, Saint Mark's partnered with Catholic Charities to sponsor two Karen refugee families from Burma (Myanmar). "Our" families are here, settled, and now look forward to meeting parishioners to share stories of their Karen Culture and life. (The Karen are a large group of people facing genocide in their home country and for a number of years have been forced to refugee camps in Thailand.) Join us to welcome them and learn about their past and present lives. Childcare available if you contact Jane: janecagle@msn.com.

Highland LifeCare Center Benefit Banquet

posted: Thursday 9/8/2011

The Highland LifeCare Center invites you to attend the 2011 benefit banquet "Celebrating Life for 10 years." Held on Saturday, October 15 at Lumen Christi Catholic Church with a social hour and silent auction beginning at 6pm. Program and dinner start at 7pm. Tickets are $40 each. Please RSVP by September 26 to Highland LifeCare Center, 651-695-0111. Proceeds help women in crises pregnancies.

Altar Sever Meeting

posted: Friday 9/2/2011

Want to Be An Altar Server?
Missed the August Training Meeting?

There will be a make up meeting on Saturday, September 10 in the Community Room in the Lower Church from 10am to Noon and will include training, pizza and a lot of fun! This will be the first of three meetings before you start serving at Mass. The other two meetings will be later in September. The ministry of Altar Serving is open to boys and girls from 4^th grade on up.

Questions, contact Eileen Moore through the Parish Center, 645-5717.

Archbishop's Annual Mass for Persons with DisAbilities

posted: Friday 9/2/2011

Sunday, September 11, 3:00pm, St. Mary's Chapel, St. Paul Seminary, 2260 Summit Avenue, St. Paul. Celebrant: Bishop Lee A Piché. Sing–a–long will begin at 2:30pm. Social and light refreshments will follow after Mass. There will be a sign language interpreter. Sponsored by the Office of Marriage, Family and Life, Outreach to Persons with DisAbilities.

Car Wash For Life

posted: Friday 9/2/2011

Car Wash for Life to benefit Birthright
Saturday, September 10
10am to 2pm
Behind Saint Mark's School

New English Translation of the Revised Roman Missal

posted: Friday 9/2/2011

There are great resources available for you to prepare for the arrival of the Revised Missal this Advent:

Magnificat has prepared a wonderful booklet that covers all the changes in the people's parts, with excellent commentary. We would like to order these in bulk and make them available to any parishioner who wants one. Please call the Parish Center (645-5717) to place your order. The cost will be only $2 a piece and you can pay when you pick it up.

Another great resource is the website prepared by the United States Catholic Bishops.

First Day of School

posted: Friday 9/2/2011

The First Day of School for PreK through 8th grade will be Tuesday, September 6. It is a half day only with dismissal at 11:30am.

Church Nursery

posted: Friday 9/2/2011

The Church Nursery will be open again during the 9am and 11am Masses starting Sunday, September 11. Children ages 1–5 are welcome. Any questions or if you would like to volunteer, contact Erin Doten at eedoten@stkate.edu.

Baptism Enrichment Nights

posted: Tuesday 8/30/11

We are beginning a new program to help parents prepare to bring their children to the Sacrament of Baptism. Actually, the process we call Baptism Enrichment Night is something we did for years, and are now returning to it with some modifications. If you are a parent seeking to have your child baptized at Saint Mark's, we will do a series of BENs throughout the year. The first BEN series will take place on August 25, September 8 and September 22 at 7:00pm in the Parish Center. Earlier sessions will be offered as an option if needed. All three evenings are part of the program and are required. Please call the Parish Center at 645-5717 to sign up for this first series of BEN, which will be taught by Keely and Paul Wojda.

2011–2012 Tuition

posted: Tuesday 8/30/2011

Tuition for the 2011-2012 School year at Saint Mark's School

Standard Tuition Rate
(Per Pupil Cost) includes $100 Materials Fee
$5,150 (K full-time to Grade 8)
$4,150 (K half-day)

Parish Investment (Grant from Parish)
$1,000 (Per child)

Family Tuition Investment
includes $100 Materials Fee*
$4,150 (K full-time to Grade 8)
$3,150 (K half-day)

*does not include the $250 Laptop Fee for 6-7-8 Graders. Laptop Fee is due prior to the September, 2011 Laptop distribution to students.

Women's Retreat

posted: Tuesday 8/30/2011

September 9, 10, & 11

You are invited to join some of our Saint Mark's Pastoral Care ministers to attend a Women's Retreat at Christ the King Retreat House in Buffalo, Minnesota. It begins at 7pm Friday and ends with Mass and lunch on Sunday at noon.

The theme this year is Renew My Heart. The talks and prayer services can help us to respond more fully to God's invitations in a more "whole hearted" and "heart–felt" way. The retreat will help us imitate more deeply the Sacred Heart of Jesus with love and compassion for those in our lives. It is a beautiful place to let go of all our everyday concerns to God and to have extra time for prayer and meditations. For more information you can visit the retreat house website, or call them at 763-682-1394. Judy Miske has registration forms at the Parish Center also.

Shopping at Kowalski's Makes Money for Saint Mark's

posted: Tuesday 8/30/2011

Saint Mark's will have a cubby at Kowalski's on Grand Avenue beginning in July. When you do your grocery shopping, drop your receipt in the Saint Mark's box on your way out the door. St Mark's will receive a percent of the month's proceeds. (Some may remember this fundraiser from several years ago.) As long as St Mark's doesn't have the fewest receipts at the end of the quarter, we keep reaping the benefits. When you stock up for the road trip, for the cabin, for grilling with friends—know that its going toward good works for St Mark's.

In July, August and September, Kowalski's will donate a percent of the quarter's proceeds. By the end of the quarter, if we don't have the fewest number of receipts in the box, we go on to the next quarter, October, November and December and reap the benefits of that quarter and so on!

Tell your friends, recruit your family, check in with neighbors—its a community effort at a local, family–owned store, which brings cash to Saint Mark's.

Bible Study

posted: Tuesday 8/30/2011

Want to get closer to God?
Want to know His will?
Want to find peace in your life?

Great Adventrue Bible Timeline Study is Coming this Fall!

You are invited to join others in studying one of God's most precious gifts to us: Sacred Scripture. After the great success of the Quick Journey and Psalms Bible Study, we are moving to the next level: The 24 Week Great Adventure Bible Timeline Study

Tuesdays, September 27 – March 27
7pm in Carolyn Hall
(There will be a break from Dec. 20 to Jan. 20)

Sign Up Form

Sign up beginning August 21 after Mass, at the parish center, or online.
Cost: Previous Quick Journey participants: $25.00 (excludes previously purchased timeline chart, bookmark, bracelet)
New Timeline Study: $45.00
Drop off checks at the Parish Center before the Bible Study begins.

Choir Opportunities for Young Markers

posted: Monday, 8/29/2011

Did you know that our parish has two children's choirs for students in grades 3 and up?

Parish Children's Choir
Open to all children of the parish and school, grades 3-8. Sing for various parish Sunday Masses throughout the year. Rehearsal on Saturdays 9:30 to 10:30am.

Capella Chapel Choir
Students of Saint Mark's School, grades 3-8. Sing for monthly school Masses throughout the year. Rehearsals on Thursdays, 2:15 to 3pm.

In these last days of summer, perhaps you can begin to encourage your singers to be part of one or both of these choirs. Look for more information in the coming weeks.

Faith Formation

posted: Sunday 8/28/2011

Our new year of Wednesday Evening Faith Formation, Sunday School and Liturgy of the Word for Children will be beginning soon. Watch for registration materials in the mail. If you wish to enroll your child(ren) in one of our programs, and have not received registration materials, please call the Parish Center. Or, feel free to pick up a registration form at the back of church and return it to the Parish Center. We welcome new children in all of our programs!

Wednesday Evening Faith Formation: This program is for parish children who are attending public school or any other school where they are not receiving Catholic religious instruction during the school day. We have classes every Wednesday for grades one to eight, as well as a bi–weekly class for 9th and 10th graders. We use a curriculum developed by Loyola Press called "Finding God" and all of us who work with it love it for its sound doctrine, emphasis on prayer and worship, and exquisite art that helps the students to experience the beauty of our Catholic tradition. Classes meet Wednesdays from September 21 to May 9 from 6:30 to 7:45pm.

Sunday School: This program, which takes place during the 9:00am Mass, is for three, four and five year-olds. The curriculum is based on bible stories and includes lots of active learning, crafts and music. Parents interested in meeting our teachers and seeing what we do are invited to an Open House on Sunday, September 18 from 10am to 11am. Sunday School takes place in our school building—enter through the Child Care doors at the corner of Dayton and Moore. Classes begin on September 25.

Liturgy of the Word for Children (LOW): LOW, which takes place during the 9am Mass, is designed to help children in grades one to three engage more fully in the Liturgy of the Word. Each Sunday, our LOW leaders take the children to the downstairs church to hear the Word of God proclaimed and explained to them in a way that is appropriate for their age. The children re-join the congregation during the Preparation of the Altar and Gifts. LOW starts on September 18 and there is no registration required.

Volunteers Needed: Wednesday Evening Faith Formation needs one more Catechist and Sunday School needs two more Catechists to complete our fabulous team! We also would like to add a few more LOW leaders this year. Please contact Keely Wojda if you are interested.

Parish Directory

You Can Still Get Your Family's Photo in the New Parish Directory

posted: Sunday 8/28/2011

New parishioners and established parishioners and everyone in between—we want you to be included in the new Saint Mark's Parish Directory. If you missed your chance at getting your photo taken last month, you have two options: 1. You can go to another parish where the photographers are shooting and have you and or your family's photo taken—Lifetouch can track parishioners from different parishes and include you in Saint Mark's directory. Or 2. You can submit a digital photo (jpeg) to be included. Also looking for photos of any committees or organizations in the parish. For more info, or to submit, please email manny.palomo@bestbuy.com.

Rummage Sale

posted: Sunday 8/28/2011

Friday, September 23 — 9am to 4pm
Saturday, September 24 — 9am to 4pm
Sunday, September 25 — 9am to 12Noon

DROP OFF HOURS
Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday
September 19, 20 & 21
9am to 9pm
No drop off hours on Thursday, September 22

We cannot accept humidifiers, dehumidifiers, used mattresses and box springs. We also cannot accept baby cribs and car seats unless they meet current standards. We absolutely cannot accept televisions. As of June, 2009, older televisions do not work without a converter box, and we will have to pay to dispose of them. We ask that the items you bring be clean. We can only accept newer operational computer systems with minimum components (processor, keyboard and monitor).

If you have any questions or need pick up, please contact the Parish Center.

Prayer for Pope, Vocations

posted: Wednesday 6/22/2011

The observance will take place from the evening of June 28 to the morning of July 1 at the St. Paul Seminary's St. Mary's Chapel, located at 2260 Summit Ave., St. Paul. The prayer and adoration begins with a Mass at 7pm June 28 with Archbishop John Nienstedt and concludes with an 8am Mass on July 1. The chapel will be open to all during the night. Individuals and groups are encouraged to sign up for an hour of adoration in the seminary chapel.

To mark the pope's ordination anniversary, the U.S. conference of Catholic Bishops' Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations has designed a prayer card that can be downloaded here.

To sign up for adoration or for more information, contact the St. Paul Seminary at 651-962-5050 or spssod@stthomas.edu.

Saint Josemaria Escriva

posted: Wednesday 6/22/2011

The Church celebrates the Feast of St. Josemaria Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei, a way of sanctification in ordinary life and in the fulfillment of the Christian's ordinary duties, on June 26. Since June 26 falls on a Sunday this year, the feast will be celebrated the day before. Opus Dei has requested to use St. Mark's to celebrate the Mass for the Feast of St. Josemaria, and we have happily obliged. The Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, June 25 at 10:30am. Confession available at 9:45. All are welcome.

Parish Directory

posted: Wednesday 6/22/2011

The photography sessions are scheduled for July. It's very easy to sign up to schedule your shooting time. There will also be sign ups at upcoming Coffee and Donuts after Sunday Masses. If you have any questions, contact many.palomo@bestbuy.com.

Food Shelf Donations During the Offertory at All Masses

posted: Tuesday 5/3/2011

For 15 years or more, Saint Mark's has had a wonderful tradition at the 9:30 a.m. Mass and now at the 9:00 a.m. Mass of the young children taking food shelf donations to baskets at the altar during the Offertory. Fr. Humberto and the Pastoral Council recently decided to expand that practice to all the Saturday evening and Sunday masses.

We are doing this for several reasons. It is a concrete act of charity that helps Saint Mark's donate several thousand pounds of food each year to the Merriam Park Food Shelf. More than that, though, the children's gifts of food are an opportunity for them to learn from their parents about caring for the less fortunate living among us, and an opportunity to practice stewardship.

If you watch the faces of the children carrying their gifts to the altar, it is clear they value this special opportunity to participate in the Mass. We invite all parents and young children to preserve and expand this tradition of joyous charity.

Justice and Peace News: Refugee Resettlement

posted: Sunday 5/1/2011

Saint Mark's Justice and Peace Committee has been asked if Saint Mark's would like to be a part of the Refugee Resettlement process with Catholic Charities. Refugees are individuals who have fled their countries of origin and who meet the UN's criteria of having a "well founded fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, or political opinion." We are going to help with the resettlement program this spring. It is not a financial commitment, but one of hospitality. There are many levels of involvement and we will keep you informed as to how you can be a part of this ministry. Our committee is very small, and in saying yes to this, we know there are many who would be willing to offer assistance. Catholic Charities finds housing, but we help with tasks such as setting up their apartment, welcoming them at the airport, helping with language, and helping them adjust to life in Minnesota.

Please contact Rosemarie Assad at 489-3044, JoAnn Mason 642-1520 or Ginny Steinhagen stein093@umn.edu if you or your family or you group would like to get involved.

Thanks Mom For Life!

posted: Sunday 5/1/2011

On Mother's Day weekend, May 7th and 8th, members of Saint Mark's Respect Life Committee and volunteers will be offering gorgeous, long stemmed roses after the Saturday evening Mass and all Sunday masses for $5.00 each. The proceeds go directly to support St. Paul Birthright, which helps women who are facing a crisis pregnancy. What a great way to thank Mom (or brighten anyone's day) and help moms in need at the same time! Than you in advance for helping Moms choose life!!

A New Use for the Convent

posted: Sunday 5/1/2011

The St. Paul Seminary has had increased enrollment and is looking for additional housing for their seminarians. We will be renting the convent to a group of seminarians who will range in age. The rent income is modest, but the St. Paul seminary will be funding some much needed and major improvements to the mechanicals of the convent. The building was completed in 1928 and was originally home to 27 sisters. The improvements will ensure that the convent remains a valuable real estate asset for the parish.

First Communion

posted: Sunday 5/1/2011

Second grade is a big year for children of Saint Mark's parish: It is the year in which we celebrate First Reconciliation and First Eucharist. Today, 26 members of our St. Mark's family receive the body and blood of Christ for the first time.

Over the past four months, these children and their families have been studying, praying, questioning, and learning about this sacrament. Faith formation teachers and religion teachers at St. Mark's school have also guided the children on their path toward first Eucharist. Keely Wojda, our Religious Education Director, provided everyone with work books for our studies, and facilitated a Saturday morning retreat during which the children made banners to decorate their family celebrations today.

Parents spent individual time with their sons and daughters, reviewing the guide book and adding their own special insights to help make this preparation memorable and enlightening. Some parents added singing to their studies, others shared memories of their own 1st Communion. Some families compared the Mass to preparing and sharing a special family meal with grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Today we will share God's meal together, as a Strong Family United in Christ. Thank you to all the parishioners, families and friends who have prayed for our First Communicants.

Advent Penance Service

posted: Monday 11/22/10

The Advent Penance Service is on Tuesday, November 30 at 7:00pm.

Lessons and Carols for Advent

posted: Monday 11/22/10

Sunday, December 5 at 3:00pm Featuring the Saint Mark's Lectors and Musicians

A Child's True Christmas

posted: Monday 11/22/10

A Child's True Christmas is returning again this year Saturday, December 4 from 11:00am to 2:00pm in the School Cafeteria. A simple lunch, crafts for the children, Christmas Carols for all and a "children's only" store. Be sure to mark this date on your calendar. We are in need of donations for the store. Simple gifts for men, women and children can be dropped off at the Parish Center starting now until Friday, December 3. You know that box of gifts you've gotten but will never use? Bring them in. New or like new please.

National Night of Prayer for Life

posted: Monday 11/22/10

Spanning the Feasts of the Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Guadalupe's first apparition to St. Juan Diego. Thursday, December 8 at 9pm until Friday, December 9 at 1am. Held in the small chapel at Saint Mark's. Joining parishes, convents and monasteries in over 45 states to pray for religious and civic leaders, a dedication of the world to Jesus, and for a culture of life that cherishes and nurtures life from conception to natural death. Please join us to pray anytime during these 4 hours.

A Strong Family United in Christ

posted: Monday, 11/22/10

By Manny Palomo

As we discussed the challenge of reducing our mass times from five to three, every one of us on parish council tried to find the right way to frame up the answer for our community. After reviewing survey input, personal contacts from the past coupe of weeks, and a great discussion, we agreed that in the best interest of the parish, our final recommendation would be: 5 pm on Saturday, and 9 am and 11 am on Sunday. The discussion then turned to having all masses celebrated upstairs. This would also help unite the parish. Give us the most amount of celebration space. And take full advantage of our beautiful and historic church. The discussion evolved from how to answer the challenge from the archdiocese to how does this fulfill our goal of growing the parish? How does this underscore our objective as a Strong Family United in Christ?

Here's how we defined it:

Strong—Change is difficult. We must look at our personal resolve and our faith to deal with the change as an opportunity to get closer to Christ. To grow personally and spiritually. And to help our fellow parishioners who may also have difficulty in dealing with change.
Family—Community is the constant and most positive descriptor that everyone feels defines Saint Mark's. We will continue to look for ways to nourish and grow our parish family.
United—Although we all may have personal feelings about the mass times, we are making decisions in the best interest of our parish that will bring us together.
Christ—We want to celebrate the Eucharist and recognize each other as brothers and sisters in Christ. Mass is our opportunity to honor Him.

Christmas Cards

posted: Monday 11/22/10

Would you be willing to deliver Christmas Cards from Saint Mark's to your fellow parishioners early in December? Call Sharon (651-645-5717) to help out with this project. It will be a good way to spread Christmas cheer.

Parish Center Hours

posted: Monday 11/22/10

The Parish Center will be closed for the Thanksgiving Break on Thursday, November 25, Friday, November 26 and Sunday, November 28. We wish you all a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving.

Looking for your Special Family Christmas Memories!

posted: Monday, 11/22/10

Have a special midnight mass you remember most? A family Christmas that defines you as a Marker? We want to share these stories. Please email any special Saint Mark's Christmas moments to manny.palomo@bestbuy.com

Give the Gift of Hope

posted: Thursday, 11/18/10

Handcrafting Justice is being hosted again by Saint Mark's Justice and Peace group, after all the Masses on November 20 and 21 in Carolyn Hall. Handcrafting Justice is a fair trade, economic justice project that partners with women in the developing world. So, by shopping this sale, aside from getting some of your Christmas shopping done, you will be helping the women artisans and their families at the same time! For more information, Email hcj@handcraftingjustice.org.

Catholic Campaign for Human Development

posted: Thursday, 11/18/10

We invite you to share in the mission of Jesus to "bring news to the poor...release to the captives...and to let the oppressed go free." (Luke 4:18) Please give generously this weekend (November 20/21) when we will have a second collection for CCHD. Thank You.

Faith Formation News

posted: Thursday, 11/18/10

Sunday School
With our Mass times changing soon, Sunday School's start time will also change to 9:00am starting January 2. Sunday School is for ages 3, 4 and 5 year olds with wonderful catechists and aides in each room providing a quality experience for the children. We pray, sing, listen to Bible stories and do crafts and other activities. We would love to add new children to our program! Please contact Keely Wojda for more information. Note to our Sunday School families—there will be no class on November 28 due to the Thanksgiving Break.

Liturgy of the Word of Children
Liturgy of the Word for Children will continue after the Mass time changes are in place. It will take place during the 9:00am Mass, starting January 2.

Wednesday Evening Faith Formation
There will be no class on Wednesday, November 24, due to the Thanksgiving Break.

First Reconciliation
Please keep our 2nd graders in your prayers. They will make their First Reconciliation on Saturday, December 4. Thank you!

Youth Ministry News

posted: Thursday, 11/18/10

High School Youth Group
Do you want to live a radical life for Christ? Start by coming to Saint Mark's High School Youth Group! Our next meeting will be Small Group (guys and gals separate) on Wednesday, December 8 from 7-8:30pm at the Parish Center. The guys will be continuing to look at aspects of Christ's call for us as men and praying with Scripture. The gals will continue their study and discussions of some incredible saints, "The Four Theresas."

All highschoolers are welcome, and those who have not made it to an event yet are encouraged to come check us out. Come meet the Core Team and other youth as we pursue Christ together. Snacks will be provided. Questions or concerns? Email Danny McClure at DRMCCLURE@stthomas.edu.