“Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” · Mission Statement : The Roman Catholic Saint Th omas More Parish Family welcomes and invites every person to join

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St. Peter and St. Paul Church in Oberammergau, Germany

“Amen, I say to you, today you will be

with me in Paradise.”

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Mission Statement : The Roman Catholic Saint Thomas More Parish Family welcomes and invites every person to join us on our journey in faith and celebration. With the grace and guidance of the Holy Spirit, and through Sacred Scripture and Tradition, we proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all, especially in loving service to those in need.

As part of the Universal Church, we affirm the dignity of every person. All this we do to give glory and honor to God.

Pastoral Staff Pastor .......................... Reverend Michael J. Yadron, KCHS; Ext. 312 [email protected] Associate Pastor ......................... Reverend Jordan C. Fetcko; Ext. 314 [email protected] Senior Deacon............................................ Dr. Napoleon Tabion, OFS Deacons ................................................................ David Kapala, KHS ............................................................................ Joseph Stodola, KHS ......................................................................... Daniel Zurawski, KHS Director of Finance ........................................ Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Pastoral Care Coordinator ......... Deacon David Kapala, KHS; Ext. 313 Director of Music ......................................... Angie Lorandos; Ext. 338 Director of Religious Education .................... Emily Hackett; Ext. 332 Director of Development ............................. Amanda Herbst; Ext. 342

Parish Office Staff Hours: Mon-Friday 8:00 am-8:00 pm • Saturday 8:00 am-4:00 pm Web Site .......................................................... www.stm-church.com Email address .................................. [email protected] Email address for bulletin ...................... [email protected] Office Phone………. 836-8610 Office Fax .................... 836-9185 Bulletin Editor ..................................................... Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309 Daytime Receptionist ........................................ Susan Strain; Ext. 310 Evening Receptionist .................................... Veronica Brtos; Ext. 310 Building Maintenance……………………...Mike Popovich 836-8610

Pastoral Ministries Environment & Art ................................................................ 836-8610 Eucharistic Ministers ........................ Deacon Dan Zurawski 742-6005 Hospitality/Greeters ................................... Chris Shearman 923-1419 Lectors ...................................................... William McDunn 922-9459 Nursery .................................................. Kaaren A. Mashura 836-5079 St. Vincent de Paul ................................. Michael Martinelli 836-8610 Vocations Committee ...................................... Mary Kochis 322-7262

2015-2016 Pastoral Council Members Joe Dubczak, Chairperson ............................................ Deborah Jarvis Wendy Jasinski ...........................................................Nancy Klawitter Jim Landowski .............................................................. Paul Liszewski Joe O’Brien .................................................................... Kurt Popovich Jim Secviar ...................................................................... Dwight Reed Cheryl Staniszewski.................................................. Cindy Thompson

St. Thomas More School Pre-School through 8th Grade

Office Hours: Monday– Friday ~ 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Web Site ........................................................... www.stm-school.com School Phone ......... 836-9151 School Fax .......................... 836-0982 President ........................................................ Noreen Bickel; Ext. 330 Principal ............................................................... Jay Harker; Ext. 328 Assistant Principal ......................................... Cynthia Block; Ext. 328 School Administrative Assistant……….. Jennifer Gonzalez; Ext. 328 School Reception & Office Associate………. Sandra Steele; Ext. 329 Home & School Association .................. Kris Miller; (312) 909-8156 Parish & School Offices Associate .............. Mary Jo Biscan; Ext. 311 School Admissions .............................................. Pam Pasyk; Ext. 309

Weis Center — Preschool & Pre-K 8635 Calumet Avenue ~ Munster, IN 46321

Phone ..................................................................................... 836-2660 Fax ......................................................................................... 836-2655

St. Thomas More Religious Education Kindergarten through 8th Grade

Office Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Friday — 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday & Thursday — 1:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Religious Education Phone ........................................................... 836-8610 Director .................................................................. Emily Hackett; Ext. 332 Administrative Assistant ..................................... Carolyn McGill; Ext. 336 Grades K through 8 ~ Wednesday or Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Pastoral Commissions Chairpersons Formation/Education .............................................................. Allen Blocher Parish Life ......................................................................... Elaine Herrmann Peace & Social Justice ................................................................ Mari Casas Spirituality & Worship ....................................................... Kaaren Mashura Stewardship ........................................................................... Noreen Bickel

Parish Organizations Altar & Rosary Society ........................................ Cindy Keilman 923-9862 Blue Army ................................................... Rose Marie Malburg 836-8779 Boy Scouts ................................................................ Curt Anglin 902-5126 Career Networking Group…………………… Christine Spencer 836-8610 Circle of Prayer………………………………..Mary Jo Humpfer 836-5002 Cub Scouts ……………………...Kevin Ranos [email protected] Finance ................................................................ Barbara Shaver 838-9200 Gabriel Project………………………………... Marilyn Glennon 836-8610 Garden Club ............................................................ Paul Mazerik 644-8409 Gifts of Love & Warmth……………………..Bernadine Nemeth 513-6544 Girl Scouts ............................................................. Renee Whelan 796-6809 Holy Name Society ....................................................................... 836-8610 Knights of Columbus .................... W. Frank Lewandowski (708)466-7039 Oblates……………………………………………...Denise Gard 836-9115 Respect Life ................................................. Leslie Dernulc (219)741-3739 Senior Citizens ........................................................... Herb Cleve 670-2982 The Travelers Club…………………………………..Lois Quinn 836-7902 Ushers Club ..................................................... ….Jim Marmalejo 836-1463 Venture Crew……………………………………....Fr. Ben Ross 322-4505

St. Thomas More Roman Catholic Church 8501 Calumet Avenue, Munster, IN 46321

Sacramental Information Confessions Saturdays ............................................................ 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. First Friday .............................. 1/2 hour before the 6:30 a.m. Mass Baptisms .............................. First and Third Sundays at 1:00 p.m.

Parents must be registered parishioners and regularly attending at least six months before the Baptism. At least one of the godparents must be a practicing Catholic.

Pre Baptism Class ..................................... 2nd Tuesday 7:00 p.m. Parents must call the Parish Office to schedule class and/or Baptism. Marriage .............. Must be a registered, practicing member of the parish at least six months before beginning the six month preparation program for marriage.

Communion calls and visits to Hospitals and Homebound: Call the Parish Office for Sacraments at hospital or at home.

New Parishioner Registration To make it as convenient as possible for you, new parishioners may

register at any time in the Parish Office.

Please remember St. Thomas More in your Will and Estate Planning

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Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe November 20, 2016

Saturday, November 26 5:30 p.m. Fr. Mike Yadron

Sunday, November 27 6:30 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 8:00 a.m. Fr. Mike Yadron 10:00 a.m. Fr. Jordan Fetcko 12:00 Noon Fr. Jordan Fetcko

SUNDAY, November 20 — Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Roger Slosser by Joseph & Carole Janusonis 10:00 am Chester J. Wleklinski by Joann M. Wleklinski 12:00 pm Edward J. Solczak (Ann.) by Family

MONDAY, November 21— Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary 6:30 am Intention of Peter Rich by Helen Rich 8:30 am Eileen Pecoraro by Bea & George Pluard

TUESDAY, November 22 — St. Cecilia 6:30 am Terri Wilhelm by Therese Biedron 8:30 am Daniel Jugovic (Ann.) by Family 10:00 am Emily Mysliwly by Furman Family (MASS AT MED-INN CHAPEL, Group 4)

WEDNESDAY, November 23 — St. Clement 6:30 am Gene Leahy (Ann.) by Family 8:30 am Steve Melnik (Ann.) by Melnik Family

THURSDAY, November 24 — Thanksgiving Day 9:00 am Mary E. Anderson (Ann.) by Family

FRIDAY, November 25 6:30 am Mona & Jack Powers by Daughter Patti Stofko 8:30 am Burt Robinson (Ann.) by Wife & Family

SATURDAY, November 26 8:30 am John Holda by Family 5:30 pm Eugene Marlowe by Wife Wanda & Family

SUNDAY, November 27 — First Sunday of Advent 6:30 am For Our Parish Family Living and Deceased 8:00 am Deceased Members of Holler & Johnsen Families by Johnsen Family 10:00 am Nancy Winiecki by Slough Family 12:00 pm Aileen Walczak (Ann.) by Jim & Arlene Kender

WEDNESDAY, November 23 8:30 am A. & L. Forszt

THURSDAY, November 24 — Happy Thanksgiving 9:00 am J. & F. Bernarte, E. & K. McComis, S. O’Rourke/ MC ~ Will

FRIDAY, November 25 8:30 am H. Hamer, T. Pappas

SATURDAY, November 26 8:30 am J. & M. Blanford 5:30 pm S. Donovan, M. Hrinda, A. Kleszynski, M. Queroz, S. Szala/MC ~ Nick

SUNDAY, November 27 6:30 am M. & R. Maldonado, J. Olivencia 8:00 am L., M. & G. Buksa, K. Yaeger, G. Kenning MC ~ Scott 10:00 am M. & S. McDunn, E. Miller, C. & P. Olsen MC ~ Xavian 12:00 pm A. & M. Reynolds, S. Becker-Toro MC ~ Matt N.

Sacrificial Offerings

Thank you for sharing your treasure with

our parish!

November 13, 2016 Adult $ 19,967.00 Loose $ 3,247.00 Children $ 174.35

TOTAL $ 23,388.35

Joseph Stupelis

Readings for Week of November 20 Sunday: 2 Sm 5:1-3/Ps 122:1-5/Col 1:12-20/Lk 23:35-43 Monday: Rv 14:1-3, 4b-5/ Ps 24:1-6/Lk 21:1-4 Tuesday: Rv 14:14-19/Ps 96:10 -13/Lk 21:5-11 Wednesday: Rv 15:1-4/Ps 98:1-3, 7-9/Lk 21:12-19 Thursday: Rv 18:1-2, 21-23; 19:1-3, 9a/Ps 100:1-5/ Lk 21:20-28 Friday: Rv 20:1-4, 11--21:2/Ps 84:3-6, 8/Lk 21:29-33 Saturday: Rv 22:1-7/Ps 95:1-7/Lk 21:34-36 Next Sunday: Is 2:1-5/Ps 122:1-9/Rom 13:11-14/Mt 24:37-443

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lease pray for the sick of our parish... c Joshua Alvarez

Margaret Amatulli Frieda Andersen

Mary Anhalt Doris Aurelio Maria Aurelio

Antonio Belmonte Michael Berry

Michael Billedo Michael Blazevich Laverne Blumka Cheryl Bostrom

Robert Boyle Linda Braun

Stephany Burney Paul Burns

Dorothy Campbell James Campbell

Thomas Cak Al Carollo

Janet Cattanach Jacqueline Morrow

Christian Willie Colby

Vincent Corsello Mike Curtain

Lucille Detterline Irene Dettmer Ann DeVoy

MaryPat Devoy Jeanine Doescher

Jim D’Orazio Alex Eiland

Sherlon Evans John Forde

Phyllis Garber Denise Gard

Andrea Garritano Margaret Geary Emily Gibson

Dorothy Gillespie Margaret Good

Howard Gralewski Margaret Gray

Susan Graff James Grunewald

Amy Hayes Eleanore Heggi

Marie Henke Marisol Hernandez

Becky Hill Megan Homcho

Mary Jo Humpfer Charlotte Hunt

Betty Ingbretson Steve Izzo

Dennis Jablonski Elizabeth Jacob Barbara Jamrose Stanley Jayjack Carol Keilman

Kelly Jean Irene Kerps

James Klein, Sr. Janet Knight

Susan Kolodziej Miller Krizmanic

Isabella Lappo Annika LeMonier Chris LeMonier

Debbie LeMonier Nicklas LeMonier

Mike Lewis Jo Lisiniewicz

Edward Liskiewicz Stanley Liskiewicz

Maria Lovell Marilyn Madsen Charlene Madura Mary Manchak Brady Martin

Larkin McKenzie Jenny Mendoza

Faye Meny Sandi Merlo Erin Meyer

Ann Miskovich Andrew Moll David Moll Elissa Moll

Mary Catherine Moore Genevieve Mrvan

Jean Narvid Donna Nichols

Steven Nowaczyk Clare O’Brien

Valerie O’Donnell Danny Ogren Emily Orosco

Maryann Pancheri James Pancheri Marty Pavovic

Johanna Petruch Angelo Petrungaro Andrew Pieczyrak Elizabeth Pilones

Ron Plewniak Sylvester Porras Dennis Powell

John Ray Jerry Reach

Timothy Ribble Jackie Roach

Shirley Romanyak Ann Sardella George Sauer Marie Schultz

Marianne Schwartz William Schwartz

Zachery Scriff James Secviar

Jim Seul Renee Shehan Ruth Siorek Nick Skinner

Lydia Skorupa Carolyn Smiley Deborah Stareck Georgianne Suto Florence Stevens Barbara Szypczak

Rose Theis Gerardo Trevino Kathie Trudgian Anthony Ubuane

Tony Vanden Heuvel Raymond Vanderbok

Julia Vrbanich Adele Wall

Stephanie Wisniewski Don Woszczynski

Cecilia Ziegler Cody Ziemkowski

SUNDAY, November 20 1:00 pm Forty Hours Begins—Speaker: Bishop Hying 2:00 pm James & the Giant Peach ~ Gym 7:00 pm Closing of Forty Hours

MONDAY, November 21 9:15 am Eucharistic Adoration (until 7:00 p.m.) 7:00 pm Closing of Forty Hours Speaker Bishop Donald Hying

TUESDAY, November 22 9:15 am Eucharistic Adoration (until 7:00 p.m.) 1:00 pm Prayer/Vocations ~ Chapel 6:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet ~ Chapel 7:00 pm Closing of Forty Hours Speaker Bishop Donald Hying

WEDNESDAY, November 23 STMS No School • No Religious Education Classes

THURSDAY, November 24-- Blessed & Happy Thanksgiving Mass at 9:00 a.m. STMS No School • No Religious Ed Classes Parish & School Office Closed

FRIDAY, November 25 STMS No School • Parish & School Office Closed

SUNDAY, November 27 — First Sunday of Advent St. Vincent de Paul Food Drive at All Masses 6:00 pm Taizé Prayer Service

Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." The two

thieves that were crucified next to Jesus show two very different ways of understanding who Jesus was. The first thief insulted Jesus, prodded him, mocked him. He didn't believe that Jesus had any power whatsoever. Like

the sneering crowds, he thought that it was a joke to label Jesus as the "King of the Jews."

But the second thief, known in tradition as "the good thief," had a different perception. He understood that Jesus did in fact have power

because, as Jesus had told Pilate only hours earlier, his kingdom "is not of this world." The good thief understood that the kingdom of God awaits

those who believe in the Lord. And when this man made that final act of faith on his own cross, Jesus promised him, "Amen, I say to you, today

you will be with me in Paradise." Today as we celebrate the solemnity of Christ the King, we are

challenged to have as much faith as the good thief. We are challenged to believe that Jesus is in fact the "King of the Universe," even when it may not appear that way to those who stand by sneering. Jesus did not choose

to hop down off the cross and make everything cheery. Instead he fulfilled his mission for an end result that was infinitely better than simply saving himself and those two thieves; by dying on the cross, he saved us all! So we too need to trust that just because Jesus doesn't always answer

our prayers exactly how we want or expect, and just because we find ourselves carrying a cross from time to time, it does not mean he isn't in

charge! On the contrary, we need to trust, as the good thief did, that Jesus' mission is to bring all of us to join him in his heavenly kingdom.

Bulletin Deadlines As the holidays approach, it is imperative to submit bulletin

articles at least 2 weeks in advance to guarantee your information reaches our parishioners in time. Submit vial email:

[email protected]. Thank you for your assistance.

Pastoral Care Ministry The Pastoral Care Ministry is composed of caring lay ministers

whose primary function is to distribute the Eucharist to parishioners who are hospitalized or unable to attend Mass, either temporarily or permanently. If you or a loved one would like to

receive Communion at home or while hospitalized, contact Deacon Dave Kapala at (219) 836-8610, # 313 or

[email protected].

Campaign for Human Development The collection for the Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD) provides funding for groups that make lasting change and

uplift the poor in the United States. CCHD’s grants improve education, support economic development and create affordable

housing in low-income neighborhoods. Help us continue to defend human dignity and build communities of solidarity. Please give to

the CCHD collection.

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The Pastor’s Page

PLEASE REMEMBER THEM Please pray for the priests and deacons who have served the Diocese of Gary so faithfully and whose anniversaries of death are this week:

November 20: Deacon John Townsend (1987) November 22: Rev. Matthew Kish (2012) November 26: Msgr. Stanley F. Zjawinski (1968)

IT IS NEVER TOO LATE The rulers sneered at Jesus and said, “He saved others, let him save himself if he is the chosen one, the Christ of God.” Even the soldiers jeered at him. As they approached to offer him wine they called out, “If you are King of the Jews, save yourself.” Above him there was an inscription that read, “This is the King of the Jews.” Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, “Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us.” The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, “Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” He replied to him, “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Lk 23:35-43)

Today is the last Sunday of the liturgical year. On this day, we celebrate the Feast of Our Lord, Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. We believe that Jesus is Lord and King. If we do so, we must allow Him to be king rather than trying to assert our own “power” or “control” over Him. Some people will never accept the Lord. They mock Him to the very end of their lives. Others, accept the Lord, maybe even late in life. If they accept Him, they will be His people and live in His kingdom. On the radio a few years ago, I heard someone speak about how people who live their faiths so completely can be deluded. One of the examples the author gave was that of Catholics and Hitler. She said that, according to us, if Hitler went to confession and said he killed millions of Jews and that he was sorry, the priest would respond, “Say ten Heil Mary's” and all would be forgiven. He would then be able to go to heaven. She could not accept that. She spoke in mocking tones about that kind of belief. Yet, that is precisely what we believe. If anyone — ANYONE — goes to the Lord (1) truly repentant and (2) asking for forgiveness, that person’s sins will be forgiven. We believe that. Some people would not forgive. They do not forgive. The danger in that is that they can neither ask for or expect to receive forgiveness if there is no forgiveness in their hearts. Jesus is our King. He is a forgiving, merciful King. Thank God for that! FAITH ACTION: In asking the Lord for forgiveness this day, ask Him to give you the grace that you need to forgive those who have wronged you.

ON THE LIGHTER SIDE Billy was sitting in the kitchen, watching his grandmother working furiously as she prepared the Thanksgiving meal. When she turned her attention to the turkey, he asked her, “What are you doing now?” She told him that she was “stuffing the turkey.” Billy responded excitedly, “Are you going to hang it next to the deer?!”

JESUS SHOULD NEVER BE LEFT ALONE This week, we celebrate Forty Hours devotions. After the Noon Mass today (Sunday) and the 8:30 a.m. Masses Monday and Tuesday, the Eucharist will be exposed on the main altar of our church. The Blessed Sacrament will remain on the altar until after the 7:00 p.m. services each evening. Throughout the day, you have the opportunity to come and spend some time in the presence of the Lord. When the Eucharist is exposed on the altar, there should never be a moment when Jesus is left alone. There should always be at least one person in the church. Please make some time and take the opportunity to be with Jesus, present in the Blessed Sacrament. As He beckoned His Apostles to go to a secluded place with Him to pray, He beckons us to come to Him in prayer and thanksgiving. Do not let Him down. Come, be with Him. Each evening at 7:00 p.m., Bishop Donald Hying will be the speaker for our Forty Hours reflection. Come and be edified! Refreshments will be available after the evening services.

DO YOU SAY THANK YOU OFTEN ENOUGH? My mother instilled in her sons the need to be thankful and to say “thank you” often. Not only does it give us the perspective of realizing that others do so many things for us, it also gives us the chance to show others appreciation. When was the last time you said “thank you” to God? If it has been a while, make up for lost time by coming to Mass this Thursday, Thanksgiving Day, at 9:00 a.m., and let God know how much you appreciate Him for all that He does for you. Remember, there is no 6:30 a.m. Mass on Thursday. There is only one Mass on Thanksgiving Day, at 9:00 a.m. We hope that you can join us.

Religious Education

Lectors for the Week

November Schedule 23/24 No Class— Thanksgiving Break 30 Class

December Schedule 1 Class 6 Confirmation Retreat (All 8th Graders) 8:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the STM Gym 7/8 No Class—Holy Day Feast of the Immaculate Conception 14/15 Class 21/22 No Class — Christmas Break 28/29 No Class — Happy New Year!

January Schedule 4/5 No Class— Christmas Break 11/12 Class 18/19 Class 25/26 Class

Saturday, November 26 5:30 pm Mass

Chapel: Dick & Nancy Hemingway

Choir: Tom & Louisa Jurich

Sunday, November 27 6:30 am Mass

Chapel: Carla Covelli

8:00 am Mass Main: Jim & Nancy Kaczka

Chapel: Mary Silvasi Choir: Christie & Katie

Kordeck

10:00 am Mass Chapel: Joan Mucha

12:00 Noon Mass Main: Diane Gralewski Choir: Pat Batchelder

Catholic Services Appeal The Catholic Services Appeal Campaign officially

ends on January 31, 2017. Only payments received by 12/31/16 can be claimed as a tax deduction for 2016. New:

Request tax receipts for donations at www.dcgary.org/csa.htm.

Thursday, November 24 Happy Thanksgiving

9:00 am Mass Ruth Banas & Louise Younkers

Saturday, November 26 5:30 pm Mass

Joe Dubczak & Jay Gianotti

Sunday, November 27 6:30 am Mass

Mark & Gabriella Bittner

8:00 am Mass Kristin Ball & Don Dulkoski

10:00 am Mass Jim Hus & Terri Tratar

12:00 Noon Mass Bernadine Barrett & Keesha Hardaway

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Vocations Committee Life is a gift from God and we only live it once.

What would fill that life with real meaning? What goals would that include, far greater than accumulating

personal goods. It should include helping other human beings and help them to

grow in faith. Consider serving in religious life. With God’s help our goals can be accomplished.

Holy Name Society Our next regular meeting will be in the Solar Room on

Monday, December 19th at 7:00 p.m. As usual, we will begin with the Rosary, followed by our regular

meeting and pizza/beverages. Save the Date:

Fish Fry & Raffle on Friday, March 10, 2017 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. in the Gym.

At the request of Fr. Mike, please continue to pray for vocations.

Time is of the

essence!

Help jump start our building improvements! If you have made a pledge to our Capital Campaign,

please consider completing your payments early! In order to begin work on our facilities, we must have 66% of

the pledged funds collected. Your early payment will help insure a Spring 2017 construction start. The sooner we begin,

the sooner our parishioners & students can be comfortable and & safe.

Oblates of St. Benedict Saturday, December 10th

10:00 a.m.– 12:00 Noon in the STM Teachers’ Lounge ALL are welcome:

Bring the Kids • Bring your family • Bring your neighbors Studying the Psalms

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St. Thomas More School November 20, 2016

St. Thomas More School

Appreciates Veterans!

Friday, November 11, 2016

Hurry! Hurry! Hurry!

Last Chance James & the Giant Peach, Jr.

Our very special thanks to veterans from local Post 16, who shared their experience of serving in the U.S. Armed Forces with our student body on

Friday, November 16th, Veterans Day. Hosted by the school’s Student Council, and coordinated by veteran and STMS parent, Mr. Dan Buksa, our students learned about the various branches of the

military and what it meant to serve from each one of our panel members. We thank all who participated for sharing their time and their story.

Join a cast and crew of over 140 STMS students for the last perfor-mances of this year’s fall musical,

James & the Giant Peach, Jr. All are invited to attend.

Please enter the school gym under the carport, with doors opening 30

minutes before show time. Saturday, November 19 —7:00 p.m. Sunday, November 20 — 2:00 p.m.

Adults: $5/Students: $3

Santa's Secret Shop is open to our parish family Saturday, December 3rd

9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Sunday, December 4th

10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. (after Masses) Children can shop in a safe

holiday environment for their family and friends. Parents can find great

stocking stuffers.

St Thomas More School families will be shopping during school.

Religious Education students can shop during their class time.

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Maybe it’s the breadth of opportunities afforded our students —

Academic, Athletic, the Arts.

Maybe it’s because we consider the responsibility of developing our students spiritually to be just as important as developing their minds.

Or maybe it’s the bonds that form between

students, families or faculty that can last a lifetime.

Whatever the reason that brought you into the St. Thomas More School family, you are an essential part of the legacy

that has become St. Thomas More School and we simply cannot continue to thrive without your generous support.

Name: _________________________________________________________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________________________________________

City: ___________________________________ State: __________________ Zip Code: _________________________

Phone: _________________________________________________________________________________________________

Email: _________________________________________________________________________________________________

Check the box that reflects your Annual Fund gift. Checks may be made payable to St. Thomas More

School.

$50 $100 $250 $500 $1,000 $3,000 $5,000

Other $ ____________________ I/we are unable to give this year.

My gift can be matched with a corporate matching gift. (Please contact me for details.)

Please keep my gift anonymous. (Gifts will be publicly acknowledged if this box is not checked.)

Thank you for your support! God bless.

The St. Thomas More School Annual Fund Drive helps provide day-to-day support for every aspect of St. Thomas More School and makes up one third of the school’s annual fundraising efforts.

Your gift of any amount will help preserve the St. Thomas More School legacy and ensure that we continue to help students develop both in and out of the classroom.

Please show your support for the legacy of St. Thomas More School by filling out the form below and using the enclosed envelope to submit your Annual Fund gift. Even if you cannot give this year, please check the

box “I/we are unable to give this year” and we will remove you from this year’s follow-up call list. If you prefer to donate via credit card, please visit www.stm-school.com to donate through PayPal.

Your gift will help us achieve remarkable results and have an immediate impact. No gift is too small.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

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Senior Citizen News All senior members of our parish are invited to join.

Meetings are held twice a month at the Kish Community Room, 10000 Calumet in Munster at 1:00 p.m. (unless noted).

In addition, we meet monthly for lunch at a nearby restaurant.

STM Career Networking Group

Thursday, December 15, 2016 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Salary Negotiations Better Compensation Tactic • Negotiating Beyond Pay

Discussing Salary • Common Mistakes

80% of Jobs are Unadvertised 82% of Jobs are found through Networking

15% Found through Search Firms • 10% Found through Want Ads 4% Create Their Own Jobs • 2% Blindly Send Resumes

Where: STM Weis Center 8635 Calumet Avenue • Munster, IN

When: The 3rd Thursday of Every Month Time: 7:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m. Email: [email protected]

Regular Meetings are Free! Open to All! For those who are unemployed (in transition), new to the job market, employed but changing careers or those who can offer employment

opportunities through their current professional connections. Have your cover letter, resume or thank you note critiqued by a professional.

Monthly Luncheon Our November luncheon will be held on

Monday, November 28th at 11:30 a.m. Jedi Restaurant

444 W. Ridge Road in Griffith (corner of Ridge & Cline) No reservations required; come for the food and fun!

Your Help is Needed! If you like watching Fr. Mike walk amongst the poinsettias at

Christmas and are inspired by the lit trees at the midnight Mass, then we need you!

For many, many years, Jean and Ron Bados have generously led

our Environment & Art ministry at STM, but have recently retired. To date, no one has volunteered to

fill the position of the Art & Environment Coordinator.

We need someone now! Advent begins in just a couple of weeks and without a coordinator, our church will not be decorated

for Christmas and other upcoming liturgical seasons. The request is simple and there will be plenty of

guidance along the way: No design experience is necessary, just an interest to enhance the visual aspect of our celebrations. Workers are also needed. Contact the Parish Office ASAP if you can help. Please don’t let the holidays approach without a coordinator.

Circle of Prayer Needs You! A parishioner is needed to lead the Circle of Prayer prayer chain so that the prayer chain is not broken or interrupted. If you can

help, please call Carolyn Smiley at (219) 923-6175.

Wednesday, January 11th Business Meeting & Social Gathering Combined

Saturday, January 21st Social Gathering

1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Solar Room Details to follow.

Wednesday, February 1st Business Meeting

Guest Speaker: Representative & Tax Consultant (Retired IRS Employee)

Saturday, February 18th Pizza Party

12:00 Noon to 4:00 p.m. in the Cafeteria

Wednesday, March 1st Business Meeting

Guest Speaker: To Be Announced

Saturday, March 18th Pot Luck Luncheon

12:00 Noon — 4:00 p.m. in the Cafeteria

Sunday, March 26th 8:00 a.m. Mass & Breakfast

Honoring Our Deceased Members Breakfast in the Cafeteria to follow. Reservations required.

Wednesday, April 5th Business Meeting • Election of Officers for the 2017/18 Year

Christmas Luncheon Wednesday, December 7th

12:00 Noon — 4:00 p.m. at Teibel’s Restaurant Entertainment by Remember When Quartet

Cost is $20 per person (Lake Perch Dinner) or $15 per person (Teibel’s Chicken or Beef Tips Dinner) Deadline for reservations is Friday, December 2nd. Advance reservations required (must be current with annual dues paid to attend). Hope to see you there!

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St. Vincent de Paul Society The Society of St. Vincent de Paul appreciates your continued

support of our mission to help the needy. Our pantry is low!

The following non-perishable items are needed:

Peanut Butter Jelly

Pasta Sauce Spaghetti/Pasta Diced Tomatoes

Pork’n’Beans Granola Bars

Cereal Soups

Meal Helpers Pancake Mix/Syrup Rice (small bags)

Potato Chips (small bags) Canned Vegetables

Canned Fruit Body Soap Toothpaste

Personal Care Items

Specific Thanksgiving Basket Needs: Cake Mixes/Icing • Cranberry Sauce

Sweet Potatoes (large cans) • Canned Green Beans Please! No Canned Pumpkin!

Caps for Kids St. Vincent de Paul Caps for Kids is starting early this year so that we have plenty of time to distribute the winter hats, scarves and gloves in time for Thanksgiving and hopefully provide more at Christmas. Boxes will be located at all church entrances and by the Parish Office. May our Lord shower you with abundant blessings for your generosity.

Travelers Club Sanfilippo Christmas Lunch & Concert

Our trip is completely filled but we invite you to sign up for our waiting list in the event there is a cancellation (you will be

notified via phone). Date of the trip is December 8th with a cost of $108 per person which includes transportation, lunch, the concert and all gratuities. The bus will leave the STM North Parking lot

at 9:00 a.m. and return around 6:00 p.m. Lunch includes salad, beef entree, potato, vegetable, wine, coffee and dessert with a tour of the elegant Sanfilippo Home and a brief history of the home to follow lunch, culminating with the famous

90-minute live Wurlitzer Organ Christmas Holiday Concert.

Bishop Noll Events Purchase your raffle tickets in the STM Parish Office for a

chance to win and help the students of BNI. Reach for the Stars Fall Raffle

Grand Prize: $20,000 • 2nd Prize: $5,000 • 3rd Prize: $2,000 4th to 7th Prizes: $500. Donation is only $10.

Drawing is November 29, 2016 (winner need not be present). Proceeds benefit the school. Find

complete rules at www.bishopnoll.org.

Open House Bishop Noll Institute will be hosting its

next Open House for prospective Thursday, December 1st

6:00-8:00 p.m. 1519 Hoffman Street • Hammond • (219) 932-9058

Visit the campus and meet faculty & coaches.

Bishop Noll has a 100% graduation rate and BNI students collectively earn millions of dollars in scholarship

opportunities annually. BNI offers a STEM, engineering and graphic arts classes.

A Four Star School & Indiana Choice Scholarship Participant

Altar & Rosary Society Annual Christmas Pot Luck Dinner

6:30 p.m. in the Solar Room Wednesday, December 14, 2016

News from the Bazaar Thanks to all the businesses and parishioners who donated

to the Gift Raffle. Also thanks to Jewel Food Store, Munster Donut and Strack & Van Til for their bakery & food donations.

And a Big Thank You to Our Committee: Ruth Banas, Therese Sons, Laura Brockway, Patty Pfister,

Kathleen & Erica Pagorek, Dona Gerlach, Bea Pluard, Ann Nowak, Mary Wilson, Cindy Keilman,

Kaaren Mashura, Virginia Gauger, Bernie Mashura, John Lyle, Karla Baldwin and the

St. Thomas More Maintenance & Office staff.

All ladies of the parish are invited to join us. The evening will begin with the Rosary being said promptly at 6:45 p.m.

followed by a short meeting, dinner, and a Christmas presenta-tion and door prizes.

Ladies attending are asked to bring: • A favorite main dish, salad or vegetable. Altar & Rosary will provide the desserts.

• NEW children’s hats, scarves, and gloves. For information, please call Therese (219) 844-7715 or

Kathleen (219) 972-0539.

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Scotch Pine 5 to 6 Feet $25

Douglas Fir Tree 6, 7 or 8 Feet $40

Frasier Fir Tree 6 to 7 Feet $55

Frasier Fir Tree 7 to 8 Feet $65

Frasier Fir Tree 9 to 10 Feet $100

Frasier Fir Tree 10 to 12 Feet $125

Christmas Trees

Special Order

Limited No.

Wreath w/Bow Small (12”) $20

Wreath w/Bow Large (16”) $25

Wreath — Noble w/Bow Small (12”) $25

Wreath — Noble w/Bow Large (16”) $30

Frasier Fir Rope/Garland Per Foot $1

Decorated Wreath 3’ Diameter $75

Wreaths & Garlands

Wreath Stands & Tree Stands —$10. We have proudly kept the same prices since 2002.

Checks should be payable to: Knights of Columbus

Thank you for your support. Msgr. Robert Weis Council 10596

Knights of Columbus

Christmas Tree & Wreath Sale Sale begins Friday, November 25th— 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Monday-Friday: 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Saturday: 9:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. • Sunday: 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Hurry-in for the best selection! Supplies are limited.

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Synod 2017 Thousands of comments and ideas gathered from the parish

discussion sessions across our diocese continue to be processed into data. In the

spirit of the video shown prior to each parish discussion, seventh- and eighth-

grade students from St. Patrick’s in Chesterton shared their thoughts on why they love the Catholic Church. They said

they love the feeling of unity and acceptance, our history, the structure and working together for a better cause, among other reasons. For continuing information

about our synod, go to dcgary.org/synod.

Right to Life

Celebrate Life at the Christmas Gala Celebrate the accomplishments of LCRTL as well as

learn about their current goals. Saturday, December 3, 2016

Lighthouse Restaurant 7501 Constitution Avenue • Cedar Lake, IN 46303

Event tickets are $125 per person. Sponsorships are available.

For special pricing or questions, please contact Kristine Chambers at 219-308-6077 or email lakecortl.org.

Black Tie Optional • Silent Auction

Pierogi Sales Note: There will be no pierogi sales the week of Thanksgiving and on the following dates: December 23, 30 and January 6.

Order your pierogis from St. Josaphat Ukranian Catholic Church early for the holidays. Call your order in by Wednesday of each week and pick up on Friday between Noon and 4:00 p.m. at the church. Please leave your order (quantity and flavor you’d like)

on the answering machine at (219) 838-9811. $9/dozen or $5/half-dozen. Choose between potato, kraut, cheese or prune.

Disney’s Beauty & the Beast St John Church Whiting Marian Theatre Guild presents Disney’s

Beauty and the Beast, held at Marian Memorial Auditorium, 1844 Lincoln Avenue in Whiting. Tickets: $15/Seniors: $12.

Saturday Performance: November 19 at 8:15 p.m. Sunday Performance: November 20th at 3:00 p.m.

For reservations call: (219) 473-7555.

Polonica Trip to Chicago Lira Ensemble Christmas Concert hosted by The Polish-American Cultural Society of NWI on Sunday, December 4th. Luxury coach bus will depart at 9:00 a.m. from All Saints Catholic Church, 570

Sibley Street in Hammond and return at 6:30 p.m. Itinerary includes: Mass at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, lunch at Lutnia

Restaurant for a “Polish platter”, Lira Ensemble Christmas Concert at Chicago’s Orchestra Hall with Polish carols, song and

dance .Cost is $90/person and includes bus, lunch, tips and donations. To make reservation (limited with a Monday,

November 21st deadline): call Theresa Child at (219) 464-1369 prior to sending payments! Checks made payable to: Theresa Child. Mail to: Ms. Kathy Sadlowski, 1704 Wabash Street, Michigan City, IN 46360 (Attn: Polonica Tour). Include all

participants’ names and contact numbers with your reservation as well as the pick-up location.

Craft Fair at St. Matthias St. Matthias, 101 West Burrell Drive in Crown Point, will be

hosting a Craft and Vendor Fair on Saturday, December 3rd from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 4th from

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 Noon. Crafters and vendors needed. If you are interested in participating, applications are available in the parish

office or can be requested by contacting Michelle Thiel via e-mail: [email protected].

Lira Ensemble Christmas Show Order tickets now for the Lira Holiday Concert. Polish carols,

songs and dance. 3:00 p.m. on December 4 at Chicago’s Orchestra Hall. Tickets range in price from $30 to $80 (1/2 price for

children to age 16). Purchase tickets at cso.org or call Lira at (773)508-7040 or groups and youth discounts.

Christmas Signing The Shrine of Christ’s Passion will host a Fontanini Signing

Event on December 8th from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Christmas Craft & Cookie Walk The Women’s Guild of St. Andrew is looking for crafters and

artisans for their Christmas Cookie Walk and Craft Show. Saturday, December 10th from 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. in Ameling

Hall, 801 W. 73rd Avenue in Merrillville. Cookies are only $7/lb. Space is $15 (plus one donated item to be used in the raffle) and

includes two tables and chairs. Set-up the night before from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Call Irene at (219) 791-9077.

Wounded Healers The next grief support session will begin on

Wednesday, January 4, 2017. If you have questions or would like more information, please contact us at (219) 924-5577 or

www.woundedhealers-nwi.com.

Assistance Needed at Sharing Meadows Sharing Meadows is recruiting counselors, cooks, and nurses for

our fall Mini-Camps. Camp Sharing Meadows is a weekend mini-camp for developmentally challenged (other-abled) adults

who participate in communal camp activities with their counselors and each other, all while growing in their relationship with God.

Mini Camps: December 9-11. Spend just one weekend with us. You won’t regret it. [email protected] or call (219) 778-2585.

“In truth I tell you, in so far as you neglected to do this to one of the least of these, you neglected to do it to me." Matthew 25:45

Pancake Breakfast Holy Name society of St. Stanislaus Parish in East Chicago is hosting their annual Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, December

11th from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Parish Social Hall (4930 Indianapolis Boulevard). Mini Christmas Bazaar, Vendors and a

Cash Raffle. For more info call (219) 398-2341.