HOPE AND TRUST IN THE LORD
2 0 2 1 S T E WA R D S H I P R E N E WA L ASCENSION CATHOLIC CHURCH
STEWARDSHIP
H O P E A N D T RU S T I N T H E LO R D
“H
ope is the theological virtue by which we desire the kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our happiness, placing our trust in Christ’s promises and relying not on our own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1817). Hope summarizes the deepest longing and disposition of a disciple’s heart. It is not something we naturally possess or acquire on our own — rather, it is something that is gifted to us by the grace of God. It is through pursuit of God that we can begin to attain this virtue. Ultimately, it is through the practice of stewardship — recognizing everything as a gift from God and cultivating those gifts for His Kingdom — that we can be receptive to hope. The steward, striving for eternal life, surrenders all that he has to God, knowing that the grace of the Holy Spirit surpasses even his noblest efforts. With the virtue of hope, we will not grow weary for we recognize that God hears even our smallest requests. This is why we, as faithful stewards, are called to Hope and Trust in the Lord! 2
GIFT OF TIME
G
od has gifted us with time. How we spend our time can be an expression of love and gratitude to our Heavenly Father. Do we spend it cultivating our relationship with Him and our loved ones? Prayer is a primary way to grow in our relationship with God. It strengthens and nourishes the life of a disciple. Christ taught us a prayer of hope — the Our Father. We offer this prayer at every Mass and it proclaims the hopeful message of mercy and trustful surrender. Do we pray this prayer with zeal? Do we live as we pray? It is through the very act of praying that our hearts will be willing to surrender our lives to the will of God. Consider these ideas to deepen your prayer life:
†R eflect on your prayer life. How can you increase the intentional time you spend with God in prayer? How can you incorporate prayer into your family life?
†M editate on the Our Father. Ask for the grace to pray it with zeal, and to live by what you pray.
† P ray for the virtue of hope and for the grace to share the message of hope. 3
G I F T O F TA L E N T
E
ach of us has been given gifts and talents. Through the message of stewardship, we realize that we cannot take recognition for these gifts. Rather, it is through the love and generosity of our Heavenly Father that we have been blessed. We show our gratitude to God by sharing our talents for His glory. Are you using your gifts and talents to build the Kingdom of God? How is God calling you to serve Him here and now? Let us each be a vessel of God’s grace to one another. We cannot quantify the effects of God at work in us! Pray about the following possibilities:
† C onsider how God can use your talents to build up His Kingdom. Where is He calling you to offer yourself in the coming year?
†R ead through our parish’s Ministry Catalog. Consider joining a new ministry that will help you to grow in your faith.
† I f
you already serve in a ministry, reflect on how you can better serve and invite others to be part of that ministry.
“Let us make the very best use of the precious moments and do all in our power for His dear sake and for His greater honor and glory.” — St. Marianne Cope 4
GIFT OF TREASURE
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ust as time and talents are gifts from God, so too, are material things, or treasure. And just as the use of our time and talent can glorify God, so too, does the use of our treasure. God has a plan for every aspect of our lives, including our finances. We must learn how to take the gifts God has given us — our skills, our abilities, and our income — and surrender them to His plan for our lives. This trustful surrender fills us with hope, freedom and joy that only God can provide. Out of love and gratitude for the gifts God has given us, reflect on the following:
†O ur parish invites each family to give 10 percent of its gross income to God —
5% to the offertory, 1% to the diocese and 4% to other charities — to give according to the scriptural tithe.
† I n order to accomplish this goal, we also must learn how to manage the remaining 90 percent. By setting goals, creating a personal budget, sticking to our budgeting plan and, most importantly, coming to a greater understanding of the role generosity plays in our financial and spiritual lives, we can all exercise good stewardship of our treasure.
† P ray for wisdom and trust when dealing with your treasure.
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2021 MINISTRIES Please note the Color-Coded level listed after each ministry that indicates the current need of each parish ministry. Black – low • Blue – moderate Red – high
LITURGICAL MINISTRIES ADULT ALTAR SERVERS FOR FUNERALS
EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion assist the priest in distributing the Sacred Body or Precious Blood during weekend Masses or other special Masses. Individuals interested in joining this ministry must be at least 16 years of age and confirmed. Contact: Julie Ternes, 701-223-3606, jternes@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: high
Adult altar servers for funerals assist the priest at funeral Masses. Contact: Julie Ternes, 701-223-3606, jternes@ascensionbismarck.org EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION TO THE Need level: high
ALTAR SERVERS
Altar servers assist the priest and deacon during the weekend Mass and other special Masses. This ministry is open to any youth in fourth grade and above. Contact: Cody Volk, 701-223-8030, ccmvolk3@hotmail.com Need level: moderate
HOMEBOUND
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to the Homebound take the Holy Eucharist to those unable to attend Mass with the parish family. Contact: Rita Ritter, 701-223-3606, rritter@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: moderate
HOSPITALITY MINISTERS
Hospitality Ministers help create The Environment Committee decorates an atmosphere of hospitality and prepares the church for the different during weekend Masses and other special liturgies. These individuals liturgical seasons and special occasions. welcome people to the church, assist Members of the committee create an atmosphere that will enhance the worship with seating, and assist with the offertory collection and Communion experience for parishioners and deepen procession. Individuals, ages 12-14, their awareness of God’s presence. must serve with a parent. Contact: Julie Ternes, 701-223-3606, Contact: Julie Ternes, 701-223-3606, jternes@ascensionbismarck.org jternes@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: low Need level: high
ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE
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LECTORS
Lectors proclaim God’s Living Word at weekend and daily Masses and other special liturgies. Individuals interested in joining this ministry must be high school age or older and confirmed. Contact: Deacon John Paul Martin, 701-527-3469, john.paul.martin@noaa.gov Need level: moderate
SACRISTANS
Sacristans assist the clergy in setting up for weekend Masses and other special Masses, and in caring for the liturgical vessels, vestments, and sacred furnishings. Contact: Julie Luger, 701-223-3606, jluger@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: high
VIDEO MINISTERS
Video ministers operate the slide presentation program, run the livestream equipment, and make any needed volume adjustments to the sound system during weekend Masses or other special liturgies. A basic knowledge of computers is needed. Training is provided. The video slideshows are prepared for the ministers. Open to high school students through adults. Contact: Julie Ternes, 701-223-3606, jternes@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: moderate
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MUSIC MINISTRIES
PARISH EVENT MINISTRIES
Contact: Julie Ternes, 701-223-3606, jternes@ascensionbismarck.org
Involvement with the following Parish Events is made available via sign-ups (online and in the church entrance) in the weeks preceding these events. Direct contacts for those who mark “interested” in this form are not made; please watch for the sign-ups!
ACCOMPANISTS
Accompanists accompany vocalists on organ, piano or guitar during Mass or other special liturgies. Need level: high
CANTORS/VOCALISTS
Cantors/vocalists lead the congregation in song during Mass and other special liturgies. Cantors/ vocalists may sing as soloists or within a small group. Need level: high
INSTRUMENTALISTS
Instrumentalists play alongside cantors, small groups, or choirs. Need level: moderate
LARGE PARISH CHOIR
The choir leads the music at Sunday Mass approximately once a month and during other special liturgies. Rehearsals are held as needed for the scheduled liturgies. Adults and high school students are welcome to join this choir. Need level: high
CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER
This dinner is held on Christmas Eve at Ascension. It is for those who are alone or have nowhere to go for Christmas. Many volunteers are needed to help setup, cook, dish up, serve, and clean up after the meal. Volunteers are also needed to help pass out gifts and treat bags or provide music. Contact: Sahlenia Braun, 701-238-8666, sahleniab1@gmail.com Need level: high
PARISH PICNIC
This is the annual parish appreciation picnic. Hot dogs, hamburgers, and drinks are provided; parishioners bring potluck items. This is one of the ways Ascension Catholic Church shows their appreciation to our parishioners. Volunteers are needed in a variety of ways. Contact: Beth Kathol, 701-223-3606, bkathol@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: high
PARISH SPRING DINNER
This is the annual parish turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Volunteers are needed to cook, dishup, serve and cleanup. Contact: Beth Kathol, 701-223-3606, bkathol@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: high 8
ST. MARY’S CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL CARNIVAL
This annual event raises funds for Catholic education in Catholic schools and parish religious education programs. It is a threeday event and includes meals, Midway games, Bingo, live and silent auctions, and a raffle. Each parish is responsible for coordinating volunteers to operate specific activities or booths in the midway. Contact: Beth Kathol, 701-223-3606, bkathol@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: high
THE BANQUET
An ecumenical outreach to the poor and homeless. It consists of hosting and serving a meal that takes place at Trinity Lutheran Church. Our parish is involved two to three times a year. Contact: Tina Kellar, 701-226-1458, tkellar@good-sam.com Need level: moderate
MEALS ON WHEELS
Ascension is responsible for delivering meals during the noon hour to the homebound on one or two Bismarck routes during the month of June. Contact: Rita Ritter, 701-223-3606, rritter@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: moderate
FAITH FORMATION MINISTRIES Contact: Beverly Brintnell, 701-258-5692, bbrintnell@ascensionbismarck.org
ADULT FAITH FORMATION
A variety of Adult Faith Formation opportunities are held throughout the year, such as small faith-sharing groups, Bible study, book discussions and more.
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FAITH FORMATION COMMITTEE
The Faith Formation Committee is an advisory board for the parish Faith Formation programs. It meets approximately four times per year, and members serve three-year terms. Need level: moderate
FAITH FORMATION VOLUNTEER
Volunteers are needed to help serve in a variety of ways throughout the year. Volunteers can help for a single occasion or on a regular schedule. Areas include meal events, hall monitor, creating bulletin boards, environment and other opportunities as needed or any place you can share your talents. *Requires background check in accordance with the diocesan policy on Safe Environment. Need level: high
FAITH FORMATION CATECHIST Faith Formation catechists have the opportunity to share and teach the Catholic faith with children and youth
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in grades K-9. Catechists help youth and children come to know Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Catholic faith. Faith Formation sessions take place at 4 p.m., 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Wednesday evenings during the school year. *Requires background check in accordance with the diocesan policy on Safe Environment. Need level: high
RCIA PARTICIPANT
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is the process in which adults become full, active, participating members of the Catholic Church. RCIA helps us to grow in our relationship with God, become familiar with Catholic teachings and practices, get acquainted with people in the community, and get involved in service with the community. The process is open to non-Catholics, Catholics who have been baptized but not confirmed, and Catholics who are confirmed but wish to learn more
about their faith. Classes go from September to May. Contact: Deacon Doyle Schulz, 701-214-9359, doyleschulz@yahoo.com
RCIA SPONSORS
RCIA teaches individuals about the Catholic faith and Church traditions. Parishioners are needed to volunteer as sponsors, catechists, or prayer partners for those who wish to become Catholic. Contact: Deacon Doyle Schulz, 701-214-9359, doyleschulz@yahoo.com Need level: moderate
VOCATIONS COMMITTEE
The Vocations Committee obtains and distributes information on vocations. Committee members promote an awareness of and encourage prayer for vocations and those serving as priests, deacons and religious. Contact: Mike and Julie Luger, 701-222-0382, mnjluger@bis.midco.net Need level: moderate
MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH ACTIVITIES
For middle school youth in grades 6-8 who are interested in learning and sharing the faith in a meaningful and fun environment. Events available for participation are the Diocesan Middle School Rally and National Middle School Youth Conference.
YOUTH MINISTRY CORE TEAM
The Core Team is comprised of youth leaders and adults in the planning and implementing of both middle school Contact: Beverly Brintnell, 701-258-5692, and high school youth group events. *Adults require background checks in bbrintnell@ascensionbismarck.org accordance with the diocesan policy HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH ACTIVITIES on Safe Environment. Need level: moderate For high school youth in grades 9-12 who are interested in learning and sharing the faith in a meaningful and fun environment. Events available for participation are Search, Diocesan CIRCLE OF FRIENDS High School Youth Rally, NCYC This is a support group for women (National Catholic Youth Conference) who have lost a loved one. They and Steubenville. meet the first Thursday of the month for lunch. Contact: Lil Krance, 701-202-5594
YOUTH MINISTRIES
SERVICE/OUTREACH MINISTRIES
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COMPASSION MINISTRY
Teams of six to eight parishioners dedicated to providing assistance to grieving families. This includes calling to see if the family needs anything, dropping off a fruit basket and paper product basket (provided by the parish), and perhaps making a meal. Contact: Tammie Johnson, 701-258-5380, tmjohnson@bis.midco.net Need level: high
FUNERAL LUNCHEONS (CALLING FOR FOOD)
Members of this ministry call parishioners to donate food for funeral luncheons. Contact: Rita Ritter, 701-223-3606, rritter@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: low
FUNERAL LUNCHEONS (SERVING)
Members of this ministry assist grieving families by preparing, serving and cleaning up funeral luncheons. Contact: Rita Ritter, 701-223-3606, rritter@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: low
FUNERAL LUNCHEONS (PROVIDING FOOD)
All parishioners are called on a rotating basis to help provide salads, bars, chips, and pickles for funeral luncheons.
HOMEBOUND VISITATION
This ministry is devoted to providing friendship and supporting the spiritual needs of the homebound. Are you talented in conversing and listening? An hour or two a month can provide a much-needed connection, comfort, 12
and companionship to the most isolated and lonely in our parish. Contact: Rita Ritter, 701-223-3606, rritter@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: high
LADIES OF ASCENSION
This organization offers all women in the parish the opportunity to participate in apostolic works. In addition, the organization hosts a bake sale twice a year. Contact: Rita Ritter, 701-223-3606, rritter@ascensionbismarck.org
OFFERING COUNTERS
The Offering Counters count the weekly offertory on a rotating basis depending on the counters’ availability. Contact: Beth Kathol, 701-223-3606, bkathol@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: low
OFFICE HELPERS
Occasionally, the office staff needs volunteers to help stuff envelopes, assemble bulletins, and perform other office duties. Contact: Rita Ritter, 701-223-3606, rritter@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: low
PRAYER LINE
SACRAMENTAL MINISTRIES DIACONATE
Permanent deacons are ordained ministers of the Church. Diaconate candidates go through a five-year formation process, which is made up of a two-year Aspirancy Program and three years of formation. Contact: Msgr. Jim Braaten, 701-223-3606, jbbraaten3@ascensionbismarck.org Need level: high
Members of Prayer Line pray for those in the parish with serious illnesses or injury, as well as for the needs and concerns of the community at large. MARRIAGE PREPARATION Contact: Pauline Mueller, 701-226-9471 SPONSORING COUPLES Need level: high Married couples meet with engaged couples before the wedding. They SOCIAL CONCERNS administer the FOCCUS inventory COMMITTEE and review the results with the The Social Concerns Committee engaged couple. promotes the social justice concerns Contact: Bob and Paulette Heringer, of our parish and reaches out to the 701-400-0065, pheringer@bis.midco.net community. Initiatives of this ministry Need level: moderate include “The Banquet,” Christmas Giving Tree, prayer blankets, and other projects. Contact: Tina Kellar, 701-226-1458, tkellar@good-sam.com; Heather Leier, 701-258-3972, hnleier@bis.midco.net Need level: moderate 13
PASTORAL LEADERSHIP MINISTRIES PARISH FINANCE COUNCIL
The Finance Council is consultative and assists the Pastor in all aspects of the parish’s financial administration, and is accountable to the Pastor and parishioners for the financial integrity of the parish and all the financial dealings conducted by the parish. Members serve five-year terms. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at 12 noon. Contact: Mike Schmitz, 701-471-1896, mschmitz@s-hcpa.com Need level: appointment by pastor only
PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL
The Pastoral Council serves as a consultative board to the Pastor. The council strives to discern the needs of the parish, and offer guidance and help in following its mission to
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share the message of Christ with others. New members are elected or appointed each December and take office in January. Council members serve three-year terms. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. from September to May. Contact: Josh Hager, 701-516-7542, josh.hager3@gmail.com Need level: by election or appointment by pastor
STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE
The Stewardship Committee studies the meaning of stewardship, and formulates ideas and ways of promoting stewardship, including ways in which parishioners can offer the first fruits of their time, talent and treasure to the Lord and the parish community. Meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m., approximately six times a year. Contact: Eric Miller, 701-527-1878, emiller@ae-solutions.com Need level: high
NATIONAL CATHOLIC ORGANIZATIONS
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS #7602
The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal service organization of men, founded under the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and CATHOLIC DAUGHTERS OF patriotism. This organization AMERICA The Catholic Daughters of America is provides men with a vehicle for a group of Catholic women who lend building up the parish community and family life with an emphasis on support and love to other Catholic family, youth, church, council, and women. Members participate in community activities. spiritual programs and activities. Contact: Jeff Simek, 701-426-4766, Contact: Virginia Dolajak, 701-258-5379, momofsixls@yahoo.com jeffrey.simek@soliddakota.com
We realize that our parishioners have many more gifts to share than what is listed in this ministry catalog. If you have a stewardship gift you would like to share that is not covered in these ministry descriptions, please note this in the designated space on your Commitment Card. 15
YOUR OFFERING TO GOD
Please bring your completed commitment card to Mass on August 21/22, mail it to the parish in the envelope provided or fill it out online at www.ascensionbismarck.org.
ASCENSION CATHOLIC CHURCH 1905 S. 3RD ST. • BISMARCK, ND 58504-7118 701-223-3606 • WWW.ASCENSIONBISMARCK.ORG