Dear Friends,  

Children also come to Mass to learn about God through his Word, the Scriptures. We have begun our Children’s Liturgy of the Word at our 8:30 and 10:30 am Sunday morning Masses. The children hear the same scripture readings as the adults and youth at Mass, only at their level. Catechists have been trained to guide the children through that sacred time of hearing God’s word and sharing about the message with them. Children are sent forth after the opening prayer, guided by the catechists, and parents are welcome to go out with them to help their children feel comfortable going to the classrooms in the church building. This group returns during the offertory. It is the best of both worlds having children hear God’s word, and then join their family for the Eucharist. 

For the younger children, we offer Young Disciples where parents sign in their children before Mass in the Narthex. These children will be sent forth at the same time as the other children are sent, but will remain in their room until Mass has ended.

FAMILY PROMISE HOSTED BY ST. PATRICK AGAIN THIS WEEK- For the second time this year, St. Patrick hosts families from Family Promise, an organization that helps families transition into housing. Parishioners offer welcome, home-cooked meals, fellowship, and guidance to the families who stay in our House of Mercy. I am grateful to all the parishioners who have organized, served, and supported Family Promise for many years at St. Patrick.

LAST SUNDAY’S HOMILY- The Chicago White Sox honored their number one fan, Pope Leo, with a Pope hat night. Sr. Mary Jo threw out the first pitch, and during the 5th inning, a priest explained what the sign of peace is for Catholics at Mass, and everyone was invited to offer a sign of peace. Over 40,000 fans participated in that special event. A great example of how our faith encounters the world. St. Paul in the letter to the Romans offers another special way disciples encounter a world that does not share our faith. I explained in the homily St. Paul’s love for the people who have not yet accepted Christ as the Messiah. Such a powerful way for us Christians to have the same attitude as St. Paul. Sharon Fabyanic from our Formation team joined me to share what our parish offers in Formation for all ages. Click below to hear the homily.