St. Joseph and Nativity of the BVM Catholic Parish Newsletter — November 2020

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St.

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of the bvm parish parish newsletter

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Inside 3 “What’s in It For Us”

May Surprise You

4 The St. Elizabeth

Center Brings Hope for the Future to Those in Need

6 How Do We Know?

By Nathan Frankart

7 Stewardship of Time and Talent Thrives at St. Joseph School Students Participate in Outreach Projects and Learn to Be the Hands and Feet of Christ

St. Joseph Parish 200 Saint Joseph Drive Amherst, OH 44001 (440) 988-2848 stjosephamherst.com Nativity of the BVM Parish 333 South Lake Street South Amherst, OH 44001 (440) 986-7011

NOV 2020

Funeral Luncheon Ministries

Ensuring Family and Friends Can Share a Meal Without Worry

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ny of us who has lost a loved one certainly knows there are so many details that require attention — from the funeral to the burial, and then a meal afterward. As family and friends gather to mourn, it means so much for the bereaved to not have to worry about food. So, here at St. Joseph and Nativity, our Funeral Luncheon Ministries ensure that family and friends may simply focus on being Nativity Funeral Ministry members (left to right) together, without having to Carol Brewer, Kathy Rokasy, and Marilyn Siekeres. think about preparing a meal.

“This gives grieving families the support they need to get through At St. Joseph, side dishes are sometimes a difficult time,” says Helen Coughlin, who prepared by a group of volunteers.

Helen says there have been more than coordinates the ministry at St. Joseph.

Both of the ministries at St. Joseph and 60 funeral luncheons at St. Joseph since Nativity have volunteers who prepare the this ministry started in February of 2017.

When the St. Joseph enhancements tables, take care of decorating, and then clean up afterward. The main course is catered by began and before the COVID-19 pandemic, a local restaurant. Volunteers usually bake the Nativity Funeral Luncheon Ministry an assortment of treats to go with the meal. continued on page 2

Funeral Luncheon Ministries continued from front cover

welcomed the St. Joseph group into the Nativity hall with open arms.

“Once construction started, we went to Nativity,” Helen says. “They allowed us to use their kitchen and their hall to accommodate families that wanted to have a luncheon after the funeral Mass. I was amazed by how welcoming and willing they were to work with us, so we could continue to offer this to the members of our parish.”

“This ministry is so important because it makes it easier on the family so they don’t have to worry about lunch as they are grieving,” says Marilyn Siekeres, President of the Nativity Altar and Rosary Society and Coordinator of the Nativity Funeral Luncheon Ministry.

Helen and Marilyn both agree it has been difficult to put this ministry on hold, due to COVID-19 guidelines, and they feel for the families who have not been able to gather and have a luncheon after the funeral.

The St. Joseph ministry has an abundance of volunteers who are divided into two groups — one is led by Lidia Ganobcik and Elaine Daub-Dotson, and the other by Sylvia Kodger and Adele Govoni.

“We are so blessed to have more than 100 volunteers who assist with this ministry, between setup, baking, and more,” Helen says.

Helen notes the volunteers are mostly senior citizens, all of whom enjoy the opportunity to serve grieving families.

“It’s a testament to how wonderful this group of people is in the parish and how important they all are,” she says. “They do so much work for our parishes.”

In particular, Helen likes to see the faces of luncheon attendees as they approach the dessert table.

“These people have gone through a loss and they are grieving, but they almost always have a smile when they see the desserts,” she says. “It’s one way to bring some joy in a tough time.”

Marilyn says everyone who volunteers enjoys this ministry. Being a close-knit parish, members want to help if they can.

“It’s always a nice gathering for those of us that help,” Marilyn says. “It’s also a good service for those who are grieving.”

St. Joseph Funeral Luncheon Ministry members (from left) include Elaine Daub-Dotson, Lidia Ganobcik, Patricia Hayto (deceased) and Sylvia Kodger

If you would like to get involved in the Funeral Luncheon Ministry, please contact Helen Coughlin (St. Joseph) at 440-985-1569, or Marilyn Siekeres (Nativity) at 440-823-2061. page 2

A LETTER FROM OUR PASTOR

“What’s in It

For Us”

MAY SURPRISE YOU

Dear Members of St. Joseph and Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parishes,

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ou already know that our parishes are committed to living as intentional disciples of Christ through the holistic practice of stewardship. One of our inspirations and mentors is the late Msgr. Thomas McGread of the Diocese of Wichita. You may remember my talking about him in my homilies during Lent 2019 when we studied together (1) Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response, the pastoral letter of our United States Bishops, and (2) Grateful and Giving, by Deacon Donald R. McArdle.

Who was Msgr. McGread?

Msgr. McGread was a humble, servant priest who created a model for how stewardship should be practiced — both here and in many Catholic parishes across the country. What began simply with Msgr. McGread applying his stewardship principles at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Wichita — where he served as pastor for 31 years — has become a way of life for our parish families and for Catholics around the nation.

With such an incredible blueprint from this visionary priest, how could we go wrong?

We have truly embraced stewardship here at St. Joseph and Nativity Parishes, and for that, I am blessed and grateful. From the beginning, however, the question “What’s in it for us?” had to be on our minds as our efforts to edu-

cate parishioners and promote the stewardship way of life were introduced.

At first, “What’s in it for us?” seemed to center on what people were willing to do to give back to God as part of practicing their faith and living as disciples of Jesus Christ.

While this is important, there is so much more to it.

The truth is, “What’s in it for us?” is really about “What’s in it for you?”

“What’s in it for you?” perhaps is best explained as one simple principle — cultivating a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ.

When Christ calls us to discipleship, He is also calling us to be faithful stewards of our time, talent and treasure. Our gratitude for these gifts is best expressed through giving a portion of each back to God. Thus, stewardship becomes a way of life that is also the way to holiness. Our relationship with Christ is what we get in return.

Our efforts as parishes to promote the spiritual benefits of active stewardship are designed to foster a deeper relationship with God for all of us. Membership in our parish families should encourage, support, and celebrate that relationship with the living God, first and foremost. Everything else flows from that.

If we are not focused on our relationship with God, then what will define our spirituality?

If we have embraced the blessings of stewardship as a practical way of being the disciples we are called to be, we will in turn know a deeper relationship with Christ.

We celebrate Thanksgiving this month, which truly is a stewardship holiday since stewardship begins with an attitude of gratitude. I am truly thankful for all that is done here at St. Joseph and Nativity Parishes, and for the many parishioners willing to do so much.

Let me share one final thought to help you realize the gift that our parishes are to each and every one of us.

Be grateful for all you have.

Be generous in giving something back to God. Be faithful stewards, and you will have done both.

That is what’s in it for you, and in turn, that is what’s in it for us!

And don’t forget — God has been doing this for us human beings for centuries. We’re just the latest and most fortunate recipients.

Happy Thanksgiving, and may God bless you and your families.

Gratefully in Christ,

Fr. Timothy J. O’Connor, Pastor

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t first glance, the St. Elizabeth Center in Lorain may simply be a homeless shelter. But upon closer look, you’ll quickly realize that, as important as it is to provide shelter for men without homes, the mission of the St. Elizabeth Center extends even further. Named for St. Elizabeth of Hungary, who cared for those in need, the St. Elizabeth Center reaches out in a variety of different ways to those suffering throughout our community.

“The center shelters up to 50 homeless men, but also feeds them and tries to help get them back on their feet,” says St. Joseph parishioner Linda Howell, who has been involved with the center for the past 10 years. “The mission of the shelter is not only to help keep our homeless men sheltered, but also to help rehabilitate them, try to keep them off the streets, and give them more options.” “[The center’s mission] is to help those who are down on their luck and are homeless, and also to serve families with children that need additional help,” adds Nativity parishioner Diane Kirsch.

Each month, teams of volunteers from St. Joseph and Nativity cook and bring a homecooked hot meal to the men

living at the shelter. While this aspect of the ministry was put on hold during the pandemic, volunteers came together to donate food that could be safely distributed.

In addition to the shelter, St. Elizabeth Center also hosts a food pantry, available to anyone in need within the community.

Many members of our parish communities donate regularly to ensure that the pantry shelves are fully stocked.

“The pantry is for anyone in the community who qualifies,” Linda says. “It’s important because so many people live in poverty, and have no means to provide for their family. The center warms the heart, feeds the stomach and soul, and makes a difference in the lives of our neighbors who need help.”

At Christmastime, the St. Elizabeth Center collects donations of gifts for local children in need, through the Giving Tree. Some parishioners donate gifts, while others volunteer to wrap and deliver the gifts for the children.

“We have a very giving and generous parish family, and when I heard that there were all these children that deserved a happy and blessed Christmas, I just knew our people would respond and come through for the children,” says Diane, who also coordinates the Giving Tree, among other projects. continued on page 5

“Give it a try. There are so many good things that come out of volunteering

— mainly, you are helping to make a difference in someone’s life, but also, you are part of a group of people who share in the same love of serving others.”

— LI NDA HOWELL

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At first glance, the St. Elizabeth Center in Lorain may simply be a homeless shelter. But upon closer look, you’ll quickly realize that, as important as it is to provide shelter for men without homes, the mission of the St. Elizabeth Center extends even further.

For those who are involved with the St. Elizabeth Center, such service is an opportunity to participate in the Corporal Works of Mercy, serving as the hands and feet of Christ to those in need.

“Giving back is the best way to appreciate what you have,” Diane says. “It is an extension of all we have been taught throughout our lives, as we strive to be good and generous people who have been blessed with so much.”

“I love making a difference — I love giving back to my community,” Linda says. “I love helping someone get back on their feet. I’ve been in need and know how it feels to know someone cares and can help — it makes all the difference.

God loves all of us and He wants all of us to take care of each other.”

Linda and Diane encourage their fellow parishioners to consider how they might become involved in the important work of the St. Elizabeth Center as the Advent and Christmas seasons get underway — whether by donating or collecting food, cooking meals, or purchasing a gift for a child.

“Give it a try,” Linda says. “There are so many good things that come out of volunteering — mainly, you are helping to make a difference in someone’s life, but also, you are part of a group of people who share in the same love of serving others.”

“It always feels better to give than to receive,” Diane adds. “And you will definitely receive in return.”

If you would like more information, or to become involved in the ministry of the St. Elizabeth Center, cooking or collecting food, please contact Linda Howell at 440-989-1513 or howelll@howellapparel.com. If you would like to become involved with the Giving Tree, please contact Diane Kirsch at 440-935-2301 or dmk0259@centurytel.net for Nativity or Evelyn Caffarel at ecaff543@yahoo.com for St. Joseph. page 5

how know DO WE

By NATHAN FRANKART

P

eace of Christ to you!

There’s quite a bit that I want to say in this article, so I apologize if you were looking for a long introduction. I hold within my hands something incredibly ordinary, a folder which contains a stack of papers — forms, documents, applications and medical documents. This

bundle of paper I hold obviously means something much deeper than its face value. It is the stack of papers of which I would use to make a declaration. If I fill out these papers, along with all the necessary interviews and psychological appointments, I will be applying to the graduate seminary of St. Mary’s in

Christ doesn’t call us to be certain in our undertakings. We don’t begin the journey of faith, love and service in a place of rational, logical certainty. We start in trust. It’s this trust, this boldness, which gladdens the Father’s heart.

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Wickliffe, and I would be continuing in my discernment to the priesthood in a new and deeper sense.

My college days are ending soon, quicker than I realized, and much like at my high school graduation, I’m faced with a profound choice.

Do I stay in formation or not?

I don’t want to trivialize this particular moment, because moving from the college seminary to the graduate seminary is a shift in focus and purpose that is profound. This would be the “real” studies of the priesthood — no more philosophy or non-theology courses. The whole purpose of the graduate seminary is to prepare for ordination and a lifetime of ministry, which is what I really truly desire. But my heart still sits in this spot — how do I know it’s what I should do? How can I be certain?

And that’s the catch. Christ doesn’t call us to be certain in our undertakings. We don’t begin the journey of faith, love and service in a place of rational, logical certainty.

We start in trust. It’s this trust, this boldness, which gladdens the Father’s heart. I know that in the depths of my heart I could be elsewhere and be successful, and filled with joy. I can see and comprehend the beauty of family and marriage so clearly, and I know that my heart wouldn’t long for more as long as Christ was centered in it. But, I know something else is true, that given two good options, the one which through your own actions you glorify God is the greater of the two. Please, pray for me now more than ever to discover how the priesthood is the greater of the two for me.

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s disciples of Christ, the Scriptures make it abundantly clear that we are all called to follow the example of Jesus in serving others — “As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace” (1 Peter 4:10).

Here in our parish school, our faculty and staff are dedicated to providing our students with the opportunity to answer this Gospel call from an early age by participating in various service projects. The St. Joseph School tradition of service began over 15 years ago when a Quest teacher, Mrs. Kathy Loos, first integrated a service curriculum into the school year. Today, service remains an essential aspect of the mission of St. Joseph School.

“Service to others is following the direct example of Jesus Christ — particularly service to all,” says Amy Makruski, St. Joseph School Principal.

“Participation in service helps keep our Christian mission at the center of their

St. Joseph School students are ready to serve their local community.

lives. We were sent here to love and care for others, and service projects help teach children to give of themselves without expecting something in return and to help others using their own time and natural talents.”

Over the years, students in our parish school have served our local community in countless ways, including food drives for Second Harvest Food

Bank, meeting with Elmcroft residents for games and crafts, making blankets for the Shriners and stuffed animals for Blessing House, raising money to build two homes with Operation Rescue — to name just a few!

As all students — from kindergarten through eighth grade — participate in these outreach projects, they learn to be the hands and feet of Christ in our continued on back cover

“Service to others is following the direct example of Jesus Christ — particularly service to all.

— Mrs. Amy Makruski, St. Joseph School Principal

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Fr. Tim O’Connor Serving Both Parishes Mass: Monday, 9:00 a.m. - St. Joseph Tuesday, 8:00 a.m. - Nativity of the BVM Thursday, 7:00 p.m. - St. Joseph Friday, 9:00 a.m. - St. Joseph Saturday, 4:00 p.m. - St. Joseph

5:30 p.m. - Nativity of the BVM Sunday, 8:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 5:00 p.m. - St. Joseph Confession at St. Joseph: Thursday - Individual Reconciliation 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Saturday - Individual Reconciliation 11:00 a.m. - noon Eucharistic Adoration (Chapel) at Nativity of the BVM: Monday-Friday 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Please regularly check the parish website stjosephamherst.com for updates.

St. Joseph School

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community. While their service is certainly a blessing to those on the receiving end, the children, too, are blessed in return.

“I love to see the students come to the realization that you really can do small things with great love,” says Mrs. Makruski. “Often, we see students step outside of their comfort zones to meet the needs of others, as well, which is nice.”

Due to the health guidelines and restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the school is currently focusing on more creative ways to spread joy in the community and reach out to those in need through prayer, handwritten cards, video messages, and more.

No matter what form our student service projects take, the rewards are often lifelong — and they are always abundant!

“I think the recipients of our service projects feel blessed and grateful,” Mrs. Makruski says. “Many times

we receive ‘thank you’ cards and letters with such heartfelt words of thanks. When we share these with the students, their faces light up, and that is a feeling we want them to carry with them as they move through life.”

St. Joseph School students help with the OHgo mobile food pantry.