IN THIS ISSUE
SEP/OCT 2020
BLESSED SACRAMENT
CATHOLIC CHURCH
3 “ Coincidental” Stewardship uestions & Answers 4Q About Our Annual Stewardship Renewal aintenance Ministry: 6M Sharing Stewardship Talents to Keep Our Parish Property in Top Shape to the Holy 7 Open Spirit: The Charismatic Prayer Group
NOT ALONE ON THE JOURNEY:
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BeFriender Ministry
e all have moments that change everything. Maybe it’s the death of a loved one, a surprise job loss, or the doctor’s words that confirm your worst fears. Whether moments of tragedy, or even “normal” transition, the journey of life can sometimes feel lonely. Here at Blessed Sacrament, we don’t want you to struggle alone. For a number of years, our BeFriender Ministry has been an important part of supporting those in difficult circumstances. With 1,100 families in our parish family, our pastoral staff is not always able to connect with everyone on an individual basis. However, through BeFriender Ministers — lay pastoral ministers — we provide one-onone help and support for those in need. “BeFriender Ministry is a lay pastoral care ministry of listening presence that expands the capacity of the church to provide pastoral care,” says Sister Bernadette Engelhaupt. The BeFriender Ministers visit people wherever they are most comfortable — in their homes, or if someone would prefer, another neutral space. Most people meet with their
Those involved with BeFriender Ministry participate in ongoing training.
BeFriender Minister every two weeks or so, for about an hour. Some people only need support for a short time — perhaps a month — while, for others, the relationship might last for a longer period of time. Our BeFriender Ministry can benefit people in a variety of different situations, including loss of a loved one, moving, a serious illness, divorce, loss of a job, and more. In our parish, many of our elderly and homebound parishioners also benefit from having a BeFriender Minister come to visit and spend time with them.
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BLESSED SACRAMENT CATHOLIC CHURCH
BEFRIENDER MINISTRY continued from front cover “It can be any kind of thing where you need a little emotional support and somebody to talk to so you can figure out what you’re thinking and feeling,” Sr. Bernadette says. “The word ‘friend’ is the most important part of BeFriender Minister,” she adds. “As a friend, you give somebody a safe place to talk.” Although BeFriender Ministers go through training that serves to empower them for their primary role of providing a listening presence, their role is to provide a space for those they visit to be able to process and reflect on their experience, finding peace and resolution for themselves. “They provide support from the faith community by being a listening presence and using active listening skills that help the person being visited find their own inner wisdom and make their own choices,” Sr. Bernadette says. The heart of the ministry is sharing God’s love with those who may be going through difficult circumstances. As the hands and feet — and ears — of Christ, our BeFriender Ministers help people realize that they are not alone. “I want them to experience the care of the church and the faith community,” Sr. Bernadette says. “I want them to know they’re loved and valued and important.” Sr. Bernadette encourages parishioners to reach out if they think they might benefit from a visit from a BeFriender Minister. “A BeFriender Minister is a friend who walks with you through the situation as a listener and support,” she says. “When you’re really listened to and you know that you’ve been heard, healing happens and that healing is God’s work.”
The BeFriender Ministry candle, tree rings, open Bible, and notes are all ready for Ministry reflection.
KaCee Zimmerman calls her BeFriendee during the COVID-19 pandemic.
BeFriender Minister Julie Ziller makes a visit.
If you would like more information on the BeFriender Ministry, if you would like to be trained as a lay pastoral minister, or if you would like to receive a visit from a BeFriender Minister, call Sister Bernadette Engelhaupt at the parish office, 308-384-0532.
SEP/OCT 2020 A Letter From Our Pastor
“COINCIDENTAL” STEWARDSHIP Dear Parishioners,
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he famous author G.K. Chesterton once said, “Coincidences are God’s way of staying anonymous.” Since fully embracing the stewardship way of life, coincidences have become cherished experiences for which I thank God — and rightly so! While God stays anonymous, coincidences are His way of interacting with the world He created. Importantly, as we have been continually impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and with many of our circumstances changing day to day, we can be grateful for His “coincidental” intervention. As I continue to witness the grace-filled effects of the stewardship way of life in our parish, and in my own life, it is definitely God’s hand at work in our lives of faith. If some identify a coincidence as a “surprise blessing” that lifts the spirits and draws one closer to gratefulness to God, we cannot deny that in those circumstances that God is giving us the grace to live and celebrate our faith. So, let’s celebrate the coincidences! Celebrate the coincidence that Chesterton himself converted to Catholicism late in his life, yet wrote book after book affirming and defending the Catholic faith long before his conversion. Four years after Chesterton joined the Catholic Church, he wrote a phenomenal book called The Catholic Church and Conversion. It is one of the best works on conversion to Catholicism, as well as a wonderful description of conversion to the stewardship way of life. The same experiences, or “coincidences,” apply when we find ourselves drawn into the understanding, practice and expression of discipleship, known to us as “stewardship.” Chesterton describes conversion in three steps. “The convert takes his first step rather unwittingly
when he decides he’s going to be fair to the Catholic Church,” he wrote. The convert to stewardship must also dispel the “myths of stewardship” and give it a chance. This first step of conversion then leads to a long and enjoyable second step, which is the utter fascination of learning what the Catholic Church really does teach. Chesterton says, “It is like discovering a new continent full of strange flowers and fantastic animals, which is at once wild and hospitable.” For the stewardship convert, it is recognizing that stewardship is a practical way of living the Gospel. It makes sense, and others are doing it with joy and passion. What they have, the convert also wants. Then, the convert to Catholicism suddenly realizes with a shock that he can no longer be detached and impartial about the Catholic Church. The convert to the stewardship way of life realizes this is the way he or she wants to live — and makes the commitment to do so. If this were not true of what Christ has called us to be, I would not be writing this today. If this were not true of our commitment to stewardship, you may not be reading this today. And, if this were not true of a stewardship parish such as ours, we would not be the faithful stewards we are today. Wouldn’t you also agree it is a “coincidence” to thank God for each day of our lives? Sincerely yours in Christ,
Fr. Martin Egging Pastor
BLESSED SACRAMENT CATHOLIC CHURCH
QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR ANNUAL ST
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his has most certainly been a trying and unusual year, as we have navigated through uncharted waters. In the face of great uncertainty or difficulty, it is easy to become complacent. Yet, this is not what God calls us to do. We are called to live stewardship as a way of life — in the good, bad or uncertain times. In moments of trial, God raises up saints! Our Stewardship Renewal reminds us that God’s gifts never stop being poured out. In turn, we never should have reason to stop thanking Him. So, let us take this Stewardship Renewal as an opportunity to strengthen our relationship with God in the midst of our rapidly changing world.
Commitment Weekend is Sept. 26-27. Don’t forget to return your Commitment Card! How do I use my Commitment Card? Your Commitment Card allows you to make commitments to prayer, parish ministries, and offertory giving. It is designed to be used by the whole family. Time Section: Everyone should be able to check the boxes to commit to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days or to view the Masses online during the crisis. In addition to those commitments, try to check at least a few other items. Daily prayer should be a priority for every person trying to grow closer to God. We recognize that the current crisis may impact your ability to carry out your commitments. Know the Lord sees what is in your heart and is pleased with your best efforts. Talent Section: You can either sign up for new ministries or re-commit to your current ministries. Be sure to write your first name next to the ministry! This is especially important if the card is being used by more than one person. Treasure Section: Clearly print how much money you plan to give each week or month to our parish. Try to take a step toward giving five percent of your income to Blessed Sacrament.
Issues like my age, physical limitations, and the current pandemic prevent me from being active in the parish. Should I still turn in a Commitment Card? Yes! The first section of the card — Stewardship of Time — is the most important because it allows you to make commitments to prayer. Even if you can’t join a ministry or make it to Mass on Sunday, you can still pray for our parish. Your spiritual support has tremendous value in the eyes of God. One time I turned in a card, but no one ever called me when I signed up for a ministry. If this happened in the past, please forgive us! And don’t give up on filling out your Commitment Card! We have a very good plan to call every person interested in joining a new ministry. If for some reason the ministry leader does not call you within four weeks of turning in your card, let the parish office know. How much should I give? Your gift is entirely dependent on how much God has given you. At Blessed Sacrament, we ask that you give five percent to our parish, one percent to the diocese, and four percent to other charities. Why a percentage of income? First, because the tithe (10 percent) is a scriptural benchmark that the Church has honored for centuries (see Malachi 3:10). Secondly, we give a percentage of income because it is a common-sense standard by which everyone can equitably support the parish. Most of all, we give because we believe God comes first in everything, even finances. What if I can’t fulfill my financial pledge? While our pledge is not a “contract,” we should all make a good-faith effort to fulfill it. Of course, if your financial circumstances change — if you lose your job, for instance — then the amount of money you give the Church will change, too.
SEP/OCT 2020
& ANSWERS TEWARDSHIP RENEWAL Likewise if you get a raise or bonus. The biggest reason many people don’t fulfill their pledge is that they attend Mass at another parish when they go on vacation, attend a wedding, etc. If you’re out of town, just make up for the missed Sunday when you write your next check to the parish. Using your envelopes is a good way to see which Sundays you missed.
2020 STE WARDSHIP RENE WAL
Lift Up Your Hearts
in Prayer
Even before the pandemic, I didn’t go to Mass frequently. Why turn in a Commitment Card? Because this is your chance to turn over a new leaf! Why not make a commitment to God to come to Mass every Sunday once the pandemic is over, and until then, commit to viewing the Mass online each week, then write down that commitment? Even if that’s the only commitment you make, take a step forward. Jesus Himself is waiting for you! What happens if I don’t return my Commitment Card? We will send you a reminder letter to encourage participation. Please make every effort you can to participate. Our Stewardship Renewal is a very important annual event in the life of our parish. You and your family are part of what makes Blessed Sacrament a great community! Most importantly, your commitments are actually promises to Christ Himself. All of us are called to give back to God a portion of what He has given us.
BL E S S E D S A C R A M E N T C AT HOL IC C H U R C H
Every parish family receives a special “Stewardship Package” in the mail that further explains our parish’s vision of stewardship. It includes a booklet that describes every ministry in the parish, as well as your Commitment Card.
BLESSED SACRAMENT CATHOLIC CHURCH
MAINTENANCE MINISTRY: SHARING STEWARDSHIP TALENTS TO KEEP OUR PARISH PROPERTY IN TOP SHAPE
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lthough the COVID-19 pandemic has put a halt to the Maintenance Committee’s regular tasks over this spring and summer, the committee members are all ready to commence the good stewardship of our parish campus, ensuring that everything around the Blessed Sacrament buildings and grounds are in top shape. Mike Wenzl serves as the coordinator of the Maintenance Ministry, which currently has between four to six members, depending on individuals’ personal schedules. While the group does not gather for regular meetings, the committee members meet on occasion with Fr. Marty to determine what he would like to have done around our parish campus. The Maintenance Committee members routinely walk around the property, and make note of anything that would require attention. Spring and fall are the times that work often must be done. “We have a part-time maintenance person, and if the work is beyond what he does, we will look into it and find someone who can do it or
sub contract,” Mike says. Thus, on occasion, the group will perform some of the work themselves, or Mike himself, a contractor, will take care of the project — in particular, this is a fantastic way for the group members to share their individual maintenance talents for the good of the parish. “We do some of the work,” Mike says. “One of the members does snow removal, and grass cutting. He’s in that group. “Fr. Marty and Scott Hiatt, our Maintenance Director, will do a lot of tasks themselves,” he adds. “We’re not around all the time.” Larger projects that require more attention will be given to a subcontractor. For example, a paving project that has been pending for three years due to the availability of funds will be rebid in the near future. The committee is always welcoming to new members who would like to share their stewardship talents in this way. The qualifications are someone with a general building background, or a construction or maintenance background.
Anyone who would like to learn more about the Maintenance Ministry at Blessed Sacrament may contact the parish office at 308-384-0532.
SEP/OCT 2020
Open to the Holy Spirit: THE CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP
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here are a lot of images that immediately come to mind when we think about God — pictures that we mentally shape, and that help us grasp and connect with the Divine. For many, God the Father appears as a wise, elderly man, while Jesus appears more like a brother, a friend. But then, it becomes more abstract as we picture the third Person of the Trinity — a dove, or perhaps tongues of fire. For many people, the Holy Spirit is the most mysterious of the three Divine Persons. However, for those who have come to know the Holy Spirit and His work in their lives, it is difficult to imagine going back to practicing the faith without inviting His active presence. Fifteen years ago, parishioners Dean and Anita Graf were encouraged to attend a “Life in the Spirit” seminar, a series of classes and prayer experiences hosted by the Charismatic Prayer Group — and it forever changed the way they prayed. Dean was a cradle Catholic, and Anita had converted to Catholicism when they got married, nearly 43 years prior. But for the Grafs, there was something unique about the experience. “It was just so inspiring,” Anita says. “It was just great — people told their personal experiences and there was lots of prayers and they prayed over us at those meetings.”
While Anita would never have initially considered herself to be “charismatic,” she now can’t imagine not being part of the group, which has been meeting since the 1980s. “Afterwards, we just said, ‘We’re going back,’” Anita says. “Starting out, I was a little bit overwhelmed by speaking in tongues and people praising the Lord, but you just fall into it — we’ve gone weekly since. “It feels so good,” she adds. “You want to go home and praise the Lord some more.” The Charismatic Prayer Group meets every Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, with prayer meetings that include a time of praising God in song, sharing Scripture passages, and praying for one another’s needs. Once a month, Fr. Marty joins the group to celebrate Mass with them. For Anita, being part of the group has been an opportunity to grow in faith and prayer. “I think my prayer has improved and my faith has improved,” Anita says. “I am closer to God because of this group, and I place more of my trust in Him and I accept things without questioning more than I used to. You just know that God is there and He knows what’s best. “His presence is definitely felt at our meetings,” she adds. “The Holy Spirit has come down and given that desire to pray more, to continued on back cover
BLESSED SACRAMENT CATHOLIC CHURCH 518 W. State Street Grand Island, NE 68801 (308) 384-0532 www.blsachurch.net
THE CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP
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care for our fellow human beings, and to be a person like Jesus wants us to be.” The sense of community found in the prayer group is another one of the things that makes it such a blessing to the people who attend each week. Even in times when they’re not able to be together physically, they find ways to support one another through prayer. “The people are very faithful, they’ve become good friends,” Anita says. “We care for each other greatly and we’re aware of each other’s needs. We phone each other when someone needs prayer. It’s
just a very comforting feeling to know that even when we can’t get together, we’re still a group and we’re not alone.” Anita encourages her fellow parishioners to come and see what the Charismatic Prayer Group is like. “Anyone who wants to praise the Lord is welcome at our meetings,” Anita says. “Come and experience it. I think anyone could benefit from coming. Just come and see what we do and see if you leave with any kind of inspiration you didn’t have before.”
If you would like more information about the Charismatic Prayer Group, please contact Dean and Anita Graf at 308-384-8855.