St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church — 2021 Stewardship Renewal Handbook

2 0 2 1 S T E WA R D S H I P R E N E WA L

Transformed Through Christ

S T. F R A N C I S X AV I E R C AT H O L I C C H U R C H

Stewardship C O N V E R S I O N TO S T E WA R D S H I P “Something else must come before the practice of stewardship,” the U.S. Bishops said in an important pastoral letter. “People need a flash of insight — a certain way of seeing — by which they view their world and their relationship to it in a fresh new light.”

W H AT I S T H I S F L A S H O F I N S I G H T ?

St. Ignatius of Loyola famously described it in very simple terms: God created us for a reason — to be with Him forever in heaven. He created other things on earth to help us achieve this goal. Consequentially, we should use earthly things to grow closer to God, or remove them if they are a hindrance. This is the life of the steward.

In the light of stewardship, we see life as God intended it to be lived. One could say that the “conversion to stewardship” comes when we truly believe that everything we have should be used for God’s purposes.

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S T E WA R D S H I P O F P R AY E R Unlike our talents, which can be cultivated by practice, or our money, which can be recouped by more work, our time is limited and cannot be regained. This is one reason it is so important for us to use our time on earth wisely. How we spend our time reveals our priorities. Ask yourself — where does God fit in?

Each time we pray, we invite God into our lives at that moment, strengthening the foundation that we stand upon.

During this year’s Stewardship Renewal, will you seek to strengthen your relationship with God?

D E E P E N I N G YO U R P R AY E R L I F E :

• P ope Francis encourages us all to spend time in prayerful study of the scriptures,

asking God what He would have you learn about Him and His will for your life through His Word.

•G o before Him in the Blessed Sacrament in Adoration, giving Him thanks for

the good things He has brought to your life and asking for help in the challenges.

•R esearch the lives of the saints, read their works, and ask God for the grace to live as they did.

•U tilize Catholic phone and tablet apps such as iBreviary, Magnificat, Divine Office or The Pope App to pray and learn more about our Catholic faith.

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S T E WA R D S H I P O F TA L E N T The work of stewardship and evangelization always begins at home — “home” in our own hearts, and then the “home” of our parish. Of course, a faithful steward shares his or her talents by serving others, but an important step toward growing closer to Christ is through a personal commitment to a life of continual conversion in Christ through the life of the Church.

As Catholic adults, our continued formation is a talent we must cultivate for our entire lives. Whether it is regularly reading scripture, attending scripture study classes, participating in retreats, or engaging in meaningful discussions on the faith with our Catholic friends and fellow parishioners, there is a multitude of ways we can grow in our faith. Thanks to modern technology, the Internet gives us a seemingly endless supply of formational opportunities. Ultimately, by emphasizing our own personal formation, we in turn will have something more meaningful to give back to our loved ones, our parish family, and the Church at-large.

D E E P E N I N G YO U R FA I T H

• Consider becoming involved in one or two new parish ministries.

• A ttend Daily Mass.

• S eek out answers to the questions you’ve had about our faith by talking to priests and knowledgeable parishioners.

• P articipate in faith formation opportunities available at our parish.

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S T E WA R D S H I P O F T R E A S U R E God has a plan for every aspect of your life, including your finances. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (2404) tells us to be “stewards of providence,” and calls us to use our resources not just for our own good, but for the good of God’s work in the Church.

Creating a personal budget is one way to apply God’s principles to our finances and become better managers of the resources He has entrusted to us. We must learn how to take the gifts God has given us – our skills, our abilities, and our income – and use them for His work.

Our parish invites each family to give 10% of its gross income to God – 5% through the parish offertory, 1% to the diocese, and 4% to other worthy causes – to give according to the scriptural tithe. In order to accomplish this goal, however, we also must learn how to manage the remaining 90%. By setting goals, creating a budget and sticking to the 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. How will you work towards making a specific, percentage-based commitment to God through the offertory?

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2 0 2 1 M I N I S T R Y C ATA LO G COUNCILS Finance Council

The Finance Council advises the Pastor regarding the management of parish finances and property. They review operating procedures and help develop the parish budget. Members are appointed by the Pastor.

Contact: Cade Crawford, 405-880-4109, cadecrawford@yahoo.com

Parish Pastoral Council

Altar Servers

Altar servers assist the celebrants in preparing for and celebrating the Mass and other liturgies. This is open to boys and girls who have made their First Communion. Periodic training sessions are held throughout the year, as needed.

Contact: Fr. Robert Duck, 405-372-6886, frrobert@sfxstillwater.org

The Parish Pastoral Council advises the Pastor regarding the promotion of parish unity. They assess parish needs, develop parish programs, coordinate parish activities, encourage parish participation in spiritual and apostolic life, and provide a forum for parish dialogue.

The Pastor, in conjunction with the current council members, appoints parish council members for a three-year term.

Contact: Steve Nelson, sawmillhollow@gmail.com

Choir

Stewardship Council

EMHCs assist the Pastor in distributing the Eucharist — the Body and Blood of Christ — to the people during Holy Mass, and in bringing the Eucharist to those who are homebound or unable to come to church.

Contact: Marilyn Seiler, 405-334-1630, marilynseiler72@gmail.com Hispanic Ministry Contact: Luz Florez, 405-880-0553, lachiqui_2000@yahoo.com

The Stewardship Council advises the Pastor regarding the development of stewardship as a way of life for the parishioners. They build a parish community of involvement and participation while encouraging personal faith growth. The committee also evaluates the stewardship efforts of the parish, assists with the Stewardship Renewal, and liaisons with ministry leaders to provide awareness and encourage ministry participation. The Pastor, in conjunction with the current Stewardship Council members, appoints new council members for a three-year term.

Contact: Gina Agnew, 214-729-8009, ginaagnew@hotmail.com 6

LITURGICAL MINISTRIES

The choir provides vocal and instrumental music for weekend Masses, as well as special Masses and services. Weekly practices are Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. and Sunday mornings at 7:30 p.m.

Contact: Matt Cabeen, 405-338-9708, thecabeens@gmail.com

Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC)

Greeters

Greeters provide parishioners and visitors with joy as they enter the church for weekend Masses. They also are the friendly faces that distribute our parish bulletins following the

celebration of Mass. Individuals and families are welcome to become greeters at the Mass they usually attend.

Contact: Angela Weiser, 405-372-9111, aweiser6@gmail.com Hispanic Ministry Contact: Fay Cypret, 405-372-9304, ofeliacypret@yahoo.com

Lectors

Lectors assist in the Liturgy of the Word at Mass by proclaiming the readings of the Old and New Testament in an inspiring and meaningful way. They carefully review the Scripture passages and practice reading them aloud before coming to church. Lectors serve during the daily and weekend Masses.

Contact: CC Crane, 405-880-1992, cccrane@ymail.com Hispanic Ministry Contact: Argelia Najera, 405-209-9490, argelia_cardenas12@ hotmail.com

Sacristans

Sacristans provide behind-the-scenes support to ensure that our liturgies run smoothly. They prepare the sacred vessels, linens, and vestments needed for each liturgy and assure that these items are properly cleaned and stored. The sacristans also prepare the church for the following seasons: Lent, Easter, Advent and Christmas.

Contact: Julie Lauvetz, 405-612-1999, lauvetz@suddenlink.net

PA R I S H L I F E Cleaning Angels

The Cleaning Angels assist with cleaning projects around the parish, including the interior and exterior portions of the building.

Contact: Sheryl Lacy, 405-372-6886, sheryl@sfxstillwater.org

Collection Ministry

The collection ministers are responsible for counting all Sunday, Holy Day, Special and Miscellaneous collections.

These trained volunteers spend their time and talents sorting, counting and recording collections on a weekly basis. Collection Ministry volunteers work closely with Erin Johnson, Database Manager.

Contact: Parish Business Office, 405-372-6886, leah@sfxstillwater.org

Compassion Meals

The Compassion Meal Ministers assist in arranging meals for those recuperating, grieving or experiencing other critical conditions. This parish service is managed by the Stillwater Catholic Women.

Contact: Denise Stevenson, 405-614-1535, dero03.ds@gmail.com

Ushers

Ushers provide a welcoming, safe and secure church atmosphere. They perform supporting duties before, during and after each Mass, including seating people for services, identifying gift bearers, collecting and securing the offering, and preparing the nave for the next service.

Contact: Jim Stiegler, 405-377-5572, j-crose.stiegler@sbcglobal.net 7

Cookie Ministry

The Cookie ministers provide a welcoming atmosphere to guests and freshly baked cookies are made available (along with coffee) in the Parish Welcome Center. Members of the committee are needed to bake cookies on a monthly schedule.

Contact: Rhonda Coon, 517-290-1574, rhocoon@gmail.com

Eucharistic Adoration

Adorers spend time in prayer, meditation and adoration in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. Their devotion provides and outpouring of grace in our parish. Our very first step in our Parish Mission is to Encounter God. This is what is offered to you in Adoration.

A time to talk to God and to hear God’s word in your life. Opportunities for Adoration are available every Wednesday from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. and every Thursday from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.

More hours including evening, night and early morning hours are being planned, and will soon be available.

Contact Richard Cronk, 405-269-9786, bendonker@hotmail.com; Judith Cronk, 405-269-1229, judyklynne@yahoo.com

Hospitality

Hospitality Ministers coordinate light snacks and refreshments following every weekend Mass. Members work in groups for two to three-hour shifts (including Mass time). Duties include serving food and beverages, as well as performing light cleanup.

Contact: Cathy Albright, 405-747-9824, cmalbright@hotmail.com; Toni Smith, 405-334-1165, tonismith95@yahoo.com

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Kitchen Angels

The Kitchen Angels assist with cleaning and organizing projects around the kitchen and Parish Hall. Duties may include stocking, organizing, cleaning and shopping.

Contact: Leah Benjamin, 405-372-6886, leah@sfxstillwater.org

Knights of Columbus — Council No. 5266

The Knights of Columbus is a fraternal service organization of men, founded under the principles of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. The Knights of Columbus provides members and their families with volunteer opportunities in service to the Catholic Church, the parish, the community, families and young people. Our local council is also active in many philanthropic areas, including the Center of Family Love in Okarche, Special Olympics of Oklahoma, and Birthright.

Every second Sunday of the month after Mass at St. Francis Xavier, the Knights of Columbus provides a full breakfast following 8:30 a.m. Mass in Parish Hall.

Contact: Pedro Velasco, grandknight.kofc5266@gmail.com

Lenten Dinners

Lenten Dinner ministers coordinate the Parish Lenten Dinners each Friday during Lent, following Stations of the Cross. Each week, a different ministry provides the meal. Participants are always welcome to assist with setup and cleanup.

Contact: Gina Agnew, 214-729-8009, ginaagnew@hotmail.com

Natural Family Planning (NFP)

Natural Family Planning (NFP) ministers provide fertility education for parishioners. NFP uses all-natural and highly effective scientific methods to delay

or to achieve pregnancy. In keeping with Church teaching, NFP honors the dignity of the human person by respecting the natural rhythms and functions of the body. NFP classes are offered periodically throughout the year for engaged or married couples. During these classes, couples learn how to effectively detect and interpret their own signs of fertility and infertility, and couples apply that knowledge to their own lives. In addition to the “Main Class Series,” “Postpartum” and “Premenopause” classes are also offered. Classes are offered through the Couple to Couple League (CCL).

To learn more and register, please visit the CCL website at www.ccli.org.

Contact: Rose and Matt Cabeen, 405-338-9708, thecabeens@gmail.com

New Baby Welcome

Upon arrival of a new baby, members of this ministry assemble meals and gifts to provide support to the growing family. The members deliver these items to the family in hopes of building fellowship as the new, little, precious member is welcomed into our parish community. This service is managed by the Stillwater Catholic Women.

Contact: Kathy Bidelspach, 405-620-3253, k_s_b13@yahoo.com

New Parishioner Welcoming Committee

This committee welcomes new parishioners through personal contact and by hosting various events.

Members help new parishioners feel welcome by their new parish family.

Contact: Mona Pratt, 405-612-4260, monapratt@sbcglobal.net; Jessica Mitchell Trojan, 405-410-6395, jmcfester@gmail.com

Parish Library Ministry

The librarians offer parishioners high-quality theological and spiritual books for their growth in faith. The librarians shelve and organize the collection of over 500 books.

Contact: Brennan Lacy, 405-888-9709, brennan_lacy@yahoo.com

Parish Office Volunteers

The volunteer receptionists staff the Welcome Center at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. They provide a warm welcome, answer questions and aid office staff in parish-related needs.

Contact: Karen Bisges, 405-372-6886, karen@sfxstillwater.org

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Parish Receptions

Parish Receptions coordinate and host receptions for special events in the life of the parish.

Contact: Toni Smith, 405-334-1165, tonismith95@yahoo.com

Saint Christopher Shuttle

This is a ministry opportunity that allows parishioners to joyfully and safely greet and welcome people to Masses and other special events by driving a shuttle (golf cart) from people’s cars to the Church doors. This ministry is essential to our hospitality and work of evangelization in that it welcomes parishioners and newcomers to our Church by offering parking lot assistance, especially to those who find it difficult navigating the distance from the parking lot to the Church doors.

Contact: Parish Office, 405-372-6886

St. Francis Xavier Parish Festival

The Parish Festival Ministers coordinate the annual Parish Festival that is held on a weekend near the Feast of St. Francis Xavier (Dec. 3). The festival includes a sale of handmade gifts and homemade baked goods/ candies donated by our generous parishioners. There are activities for children, a variety of delicious foods for lunch, and Christian fellowship.

The annual parish festival is stewarded by the Stillwater Catholic Women.

Contact: Chelsea Davis, 816-868-3572, chellizmel@gmail.com

Saturday Rosary Group

Saturday Rosary Group meets at St. Francis Xavier every Saturday at 8 a.m. to pray the Rosary, and increase devotion to the Blessed Mother. The first Saturday of the month observes the scripture Rosary prayer format.

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Afterwards, participants are invited to attend the 9 a.m. Mass or enjoy breakfast together!

Contact: Kevin Larios, 405-780-3009, klarios357@earthlink.net

Sod Squad: Church Gardens and Grounds

The parishioners of the Sod Squad assist with lawn care and grounds maintenance through various tasks, such as: flower gardening, mowing, weed eating, edging, and general upkeep of the gardens and grounds. They are involved in handson projects that may include mowing and landscaping during the spring-fall seasons, and snow removal in the winter.

Contact: Walter Howell, 405-338-1039, wrhowell4@gmail.com

Spanish Language Classes

St. Francis Xavier offers two weekly Spanish classes. Come learn to communicate with our vibrant community of Spanish-speaking parishioners and explore the fascinating lifeways of Latin America and Spain. Our classroom will give you the opportunity to embrace new ways of life and meet some of the Spanish-speaking members of our parish’s growing family. Join us at the Introductory Class on Tuesdays from 5:15-6:15 p.m., or come to the Intermediate Class on Mondays from 5:15-6:15 p.m.

Contact: Dr. Cida Chase, 405-377-0671, csc1937@okstate.edu; Luz Florez, 405-880-0553, lachiqui_2000@yahoo.com

Spiritual Direction

Spiritual Direction is an age-old practice of sitting and discussing your relationship with God and others with a Spiritual Director. It will help you to discover ways to establish, enhance, and deepen a relationship with God and to discern

life decisions. A Spiritual Director is an individual who has had extensive training in the ministry of Spiritual Direction. More information is available on the Welcome Table in the narthex.

Contact: Marilyn Seiler, 405-334-1630, marilynseiler72@gmail.com

Xavier Women (formerly Stillwater Catholic Women) The ministers foster fellowship among women of the St. Francis Xavier Parish and the community of Stillwater. They provide services for other members of the parish, such as: bereavement meals, compassion meals, new baby welcoming, sacramental receptions, scholarships, the St. Francis Xavier Parish Festival, and the Women’s Lenten Retreat.

They also participate in the activities of the Stillwater Church Women United and the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women. Meetings are held on the third Monday of the month. All women of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church are considered members of the Stillwater Catholic Women.

Contact: Laci Campbell, 405-742-2943, ljcamp75@yahoo.com

Wrapped in Prayer

(Formally known as Prayer Shawl Ministry and Baby Blessings Ministry) Parishioners meet to pray and lend their skills to this compassion ministry by knitting and/or crocheting prayer shawls and baby blankets. This ministry meets weekly on Wednesday in the Parish Hall at 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and weekly on Thursday in the Youth Lounge at 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. All are invited who either already know how to knit/crochet or would like to learn.

Contacts: Jennifer Ringwald at jringwa82@gmail.com and Jenny Nelson at jjnelson1@suddenlink.net or 405-747-5465

YO U T H FA I T H F O R M AT I O N Catholic Homeschool Group

This ministry provides support for parish families that homeschool their children, as well as community service opportunities and social activities.

Contact: Catie Hanson, 405-612-8153, Catherine.R.Hanson@gmail.com

Xavier Kids (formerly Children’s Ministry)

The catechists assist in carrying out the activities of this group, including preparing children for the Sacraments of First Communion and First Reconciliation, which are celebrated during the secondgrade year. The CM program is for children 4 years old (Pre-K) to fifth grade.

Contact: Jacob Farni, 405-372-6886, jacob@sfxstillwater.org

Xavier Teens (formerly EDGE and LifeTeen)

Volunteers assist in carrying out the Xavier Teens Program for middle school-age students and high school-age students.

This ministry offers spiritual, social and service events focused on inviting youth to live a more active faith life. The youth are challenged to examine various aspects of their faith and to grow in their understanding of the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Participants help shape our parish and prepare themselves to proclaim the Gospel to the whole world. The Xavier Teens Program meets on Sunday evenings.

Confirmation begins in 11th grade. The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated during the 11th-grade year of high school.

Contact: Ashleigh Martin, 405-269-3786, ashleigh@sfxstillwater.org 11

High School Lunch

The High School Lunch volunteers prepare lunch for all high school students from 12-1 p.m. on Fridays, in the parish gymnasium. They assist with activities such as: shopping, cooking, serving and cleanup. Gift cards are welcome to help pay for the food and supplies.

Contact: Ashleigh Martin, 405-269-3786, ashleigh@sfxstillwater.org

St. Francis Xavier Early Childhood Development Center (SFX ECDC)

The SFX ECDC is a joyful, nurturing Christ-centered community, rooted in the Catholic faith, providing for the total development of our students through active and engaged learning. The SFX ECDC is committed to educating children and keeping all children safe. Our safety measures include an automated check-in system, gated playground, and tornado shelter. The program fosters the desire in children to come to know God and utilizes an across-the-board curriculum from the Frog Street Press. This curriculum meets the needs of the “whole

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child” and includes language, social, emotional, cognitive, physical and motor development. SFX ECDC serves children from 12 months old to Pre-Kindergarten age, and is built around the needs of each individual child. A summer program is also available for children age 12 months to 7 years old. The center is open Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and offers flexible attendance options.

Parents can choose from a two, three or five-day/week program with half days or full days offered for working professionals.

Contact: Claudia Ogrin, 405-334-5154, claudia@sfxstillwater.org

Vacation Bible School (VBS) Adult and Youth Volunteers

The VBS volunteers coordinate the annual summer Vacation Bible School for children pre-K through fifth grade, teaching about our Catholic faith and having a good time. Adults and youth entering sixth grade and up are encouraged to volunteer.

Contact: Jacob Farni, 405-372-6886, jacob@sfxstillwater.org

A D U LT FA I T H F O R M AT I O N Adult Bible Study

A weekly Bible study that meets for approximately 12 weeks in the fall and spring on Tuesdays at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Each session is about 90 minutes.

Whether this is your first time to join a Bible study, or you have studied for years, all are welcome to join.

Contact: Terri Schutte, 260-579-6464, terri.schutte4@gmail.com

Catholic Young Adults of Stillwater (CYA)

The Catholic Young Adults of Stillwater is for all those in Payne County in their 20s and 30s who seek to grow in their faith and build community among young adults. CYA gathers monthly, typically on the third Thursday of the month, for social and spiritual fellowship. For more information, please visit our Facebook page: Catholic Young Adults of Stillwater.

Contact: Fr. Robert Duck, 405-372-6886, frrobert@sfxstillwater.org

group meets weekly for nine weeks, which includes a day-long retreat, focusing on the Holy Spirit. The Discovering Christ series will be offered throughout various times of the year. This ministry needs smallgroup facilitators (English and Spanish speaking), as well as assistance with hospitality, food, setup and cleanup.

Contact: Parish Office, 405-372-6886

Moms, INC (In the Name of Christ)

Mom’s, INC is a group for mothers of all ages with children of all ages, may it be biological or adoptive and fostering. We support each other in our vocation of motherhood. Members gather monthly for the First Saturday Mass at 9 am in the Nave, with a Mom’s Morning Out afterwards. We gather to be rejuvenated by the Mass and by each other. Please join us and invite your friends, sisters, and mothers!

Contact: Jennifer Ringwald, 405-476-0564, jringwa82@gmail.com

Christ Life (Discovering, Following and Sharing Christ) Discovering Christ is a part of a series called Christ Life. The goal of Discovering Christ is to lead each person into an initial encounter or deeper conversion with Jesus Christ.

This series helps people of all faith backgrounds navigate what it means to have a relationship with Jesus Christ and is intended to be an entry point for Catholics. It also provides an opportunity to invite non-Catholics to attend in our efforts to evangelize. The

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The OWLS (Older, Wiser, Livelier Saints) 55+ Club

The members of this group unite together to establish a closer bond with each other. They provide social and spiritual support through regularly scheduled activities. The OWLS meet in the Parish Hall at 11:30 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month, unless there is a scheduled outing.

Contact: Sandy Soulek, 405-372-4307, soulek@gmail.com; Mary Davenport, 405-747-5651, mary@teamstillwater.com

Retreat in Daily Life (RIDL)

Are you taking time to grow spiritually?

Retreat In Daily Life (RIDL) is a way for busy people to grow deeply in their relationship with, and commitment to, Jesus Christ. The Spiritual Exercises are a compilation of meditations, prayers and contemplative practices developed

by St. Ignatius of Loyola to help people deepen their personal relationship with God. Meeting times are on Mondays.

More information is available on the Welcome Table in the narthex.

Contact: Marilyn Seiler, 405-334-1630, marilynseiler72@gmail.com

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)

RCIA presents what the Catholic Church believes, teaches, and why. The RCIA process is a way for each participant to encounter Jesus Christ in His Church, allows each person the time to choose to become a disciple while learning the tenets of the Catholic faith, and to grow in fellowship with the community. The RCIA schedule varies throughout the year and includes opportunities in the summer. This ministry is always in need of sponsors who can serve as spiritual 14

mentors, team members who serve as hospitality setup, and parishioners who are knowledgeable of their faith and can be helpful as catechists.

Contact: Parish Office, 405-372-6886

Sunday Morning Discussion Group Group discussions focus on understanding the Scripture readings as the readings relate to one’s day-to-day lived experiences. Participants have the opportunity to explore their awareness of how God works in their lives, to share how their faith affects their spiritual well-being, to express their gratitude for God’s blessings, and to pray for personal, local and global needs.

Participants meet on Sundays at 10 a.m.

Contact: Mimi Ward, 405-377-3884, cmbjward@sbcglobal.net

OUTREACH Ambassadors

The parishioners of St. Francis Xavier are very proud of their new church home and enjoy showing newcomers the wonderful things inside the church and its facilities. The Ambassadors volunteer to give tours for those interested in seeing the beauty and learning more about St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.

Contact: Karen Bisges, 405-372-6886

Bereavement Committee

As a service to grieving families, our parish provides a meal following the funeral service. Often these meals can be quite large, so many volunteers are needed to prepare and serve the meal. The activities of this outreach program are managed by the Stillwater Catholic Women.

Contact: Mona Pratt, 405-612-4260, monapratt@sbcglobal.net; Dolores Willett, 405-612-2890, da1willett@aol.com

Birthright of Stillwater

Birthright is a pro-life crisis pregnancy center that provides free, confidential services including pregnancy tests, emotional support, baby clothes, diaper assistance and non-judgmental help.

Birthright also makes referrals for prenatal support; financial resources; employment; housing; legal/social assistance; parenting classes and adoption.

To learn more about Birthright, visit their website at https://birthright.org/ stillwater/. Contact Birthright for services: 1-800-550 4900 (Toll-Free), 405-332-1555 (Texting Option).

Contact: Jeanne Campbell (Director), 405-377-5683; stillwater@birthright.org

Catholic Charities Education Center — Stillwater

Utilizing the St. Francis Xavier Church at 6th and West, the Stillwater branch of Catholic Charities of Eastern Oklahoma seeks to assist men and women to enter the workforce by offering a variety of classes and seminars. Services that will be offered include high school equivalency exam classes, English as a Second Language (ESL), computer training, Microsoft Office Application courses, and career coaching. Volunteers are needed to mentor, teach, and work behind the scenes to provide childcare and food for our students while they are in class.

Contact: Mike Fitzgerald, mfitzgerald@cceok.org

Communion to the Homebound

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion visit Catholics who are physically unable to join the community for the celebration of Mass, meeting them where they reside in their home or care facility to maintain a connection between them and the Catholic community.

Contact: Marilyn Seiler, 405-334-1630, marilynseiler72@gmail.com

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Food Backpack Ministry

The Food Backpack Ministry ensures that every child from Stillwater Middle School who has a need, will receive nutritional food to eat on the weekends while away from school. Currently, the ministry is serving over 45 children per week, which amounts to over 1,400 food bags per school year. Members of the ministry help prepare the food bags and distribute them to the school weekly. Each volunteer signs up to deliver food bags to the Middle School for one month of the school year.

Contact: Ashley Klepper, 405-923-2216

Giving Tree

At Christmastime each year, this ministry gathers gifts for those who are less fortunate. Previous recipients include: Birthright, Mission of Hope, Mother Teresa Ministry, Wings of Hope, among others, as well as local families.

Contact: Kathleen Bays, 405-743-9258, kbays@sbcglobal.net

Grief Support Ministry

The Grief Support Ministry coordinates Seasons of Hope, a Catholic faithbased support group for those who have experienced loss. This support group consists of six weekly sessions, where participants explore mourning through Scripture, prayer, reflection activities, and faith sharing. Individual grief support sessions are also available.

Contact: Brandi Bishop, 405-269-2252, brandi@sfxstillwater.org

Health and Wellness Ministry

The Health and Wellness Ministry embodies the compassionate healing love of Jesus Christ. Focusing on body, mind and spirit wellness, we provide outreach through education and advocacy in the parish and the larger community.

The Health and Wellness Ministry is 16

led by the parish nurse and comprised of parishioners with an interest in promoting health and wellness. Programs and services coordinated by the Health and Wellness Ministry include monthly blood pressure clinics, coordination of support groups, personal health coaching, referrals to community resources, bereavement and caregiver support, and health education through classes, seminars, and weekly bulletin articles.

Contact: Brandi Bishop, 405-269-2252, brandi@sfxstillwater.org

LOV E T H Y NEIGHBOR Mother Teresa Ministry

The Mother Teresa Ministry’s mission is to respond to the Gospel message of Jesus by assisting the poor and marginalized in our community. This is accomplished by sharing gifts given to us with those whose immediate and critical needs cannot be met from other sources (public agencies,

churches, family and friends). Volunteers respond weekly to phone message requests for assistance and issue vouchers as appropriate. Specific collections are designated to support this ministry on Ash Wednesday, Holy Thursday, and four Holy Days when not on a Sunday (Jan. 1, Aug. 15, Nov. 1, and Dec. 8). Individual donations are welcome at any time.

Contact the Parish Welcome Center for services: 405-372-6886, sfx@sfxstillwater.org.

Contact: 405-372-7673 or 405-372-6886

Our Daily Bread

On the third Monday of each month, volunteers from St. Francis Xavier assist shoppers and stock shelves for Our Daily Bread, a non-profit food and resource center for Payne County. On the designated day, volunteers meet at Our Daily Bread, at 12:45 p.m.

(701 E 12th Street in Stillwater). We gather for a brief orientation prior to startup. Volunteers should wear closedtoe shoes and comfortable clothes. St. Francis Xavier parishioners may donate nonperishable food to Our Daily Bread

by placing food in the tub labeled “Our Daily Bread,” located in the narthex of the church. Parishioners may also donate clean plastic bags and clean egg cartons.

Additional information may be found at https://www.ourdailybreadstillwater.org/.

Contact: Clem Ward (Liaison), 405-377-3884, cmbjward@sbcglobal.net

Stephen Ministry

Stephen Ministers are specially trained and commissioned to bring Christian support and the healing love of God to those in need of firsthand love and support. They are not professional counselors or psychologists, but seek to provide Christian support in a confidential, caring relationship with a person in need. If you or someone you know needs a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on, call Stephen Ministry. Training for new caregivers begins in October.

Contact: Angela Pradia, 405-762-9405, angie_mklady@yahoo.com; Mary Ellen Holley, 405-762-9357, meholley.meh@gmail.com

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SACRAMENTS Baptismal Preparation

This ministry is designed to assist parents and sponsors in fulfilling their canonical obligation of preparation for the Baptism of their children.

Classes are required and scheduled monthly for new parents. Classes are led by the deacons and scheduled for the second Tuesday of each month.

Contact: Erin Johnson, 405-372-6886, erin@sfxstillwater.org

Pre-Cana Classes (Marriage Prep) Couples preparing for the Sacrament of Matrimony are invited to participate in Pre-Cana classes with the Pastor and at the diocesan level. A team of married couples from the parish provides presentations and leads discussions on related topics. Couples are asked to contact the priest or deacon at least six months in advance of the planned wedding date, to attend Natural Family Planning classes, and to register for a Marriage Preparation retreat.

Contact: Fr. Brian O’Brien, 405-372-6886, frobrien@sfxstillwater.org

C AT Á LO G O D E L M I N I S T E R I O MINISTERIO H I S PA N O La Comunidad Católica Hispana de Stillwater, unida en la fe, ofrece programas para todo Stillwater y los pueblos cercanos. La Comunidad Hispana mantiene una serie de celebraciones y tradiciones a las cuales invita a toda la comunidad Católica de Stillwater y los pueblos vecinos.

Estos eventos y programas incluyen los siguientes:

Cada Viernes Santo durante Semana Santa al anochecer se celebra la procesión del Santo Sepulcro.

Las Misas del Jueves y Viernes Santo se realizan en forma bilingüe.

Cada 12 de diciembre se celebra la Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe a la cual se invita a toda la comunidad de Stillwater y los pueblos vecinos.

La Comunidad Hispana ofrece clases de Español, lengua, y cultura para la comunidad sin costo alguno.

Para más detalles sobre las clases de Español, Estudio de Biblia en Español se lleva a comuníquese con: Cida Chase, 405-377-0671, cabo los sábados a las 6:30 p.m. de la tarde. csc1937@okstate.edu; Luz Florez, 405-880-0553, lachiqui_2000@yahoo.com Para más detalles, comuníquese con: La Coordinadora de Ministerios de Alcance Hispano, 405-372-6886.

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El último domingo de cada mes, después de la celebración de la Santa Misa, se lleva a cabo lo que se llama afectuosamente el “Convivio”.

Algunos programas de interés especial se realizan durante los convivios.

Para más información sobre la comunidad Hispana o para asistencia en Español, por favor comuníquese con Angela Vivar en la oficina de bienvenida de lunes a viernes al 405-372-6886, angelav@sfxstillwater.org.

Estudio Bíblico

Tenemos un estudio Bíblico semanal que se reúne los viernes por la noche a las 6:30 p.m. Cada semana, se comparte una mesa redonda sobre un nuevo capítulo de la Biblia.

Hispanic Contact: Angela Vivar, 405-372-6886

El Coro en Español

El Coro en Español canta a la 1 p.m. los domingos para la Misa en Español y practica los martes a las 7 p.m. en la Iglesia. En ocasiones especiales y celebraciones Católicas grandes, como Jueves Santo y Viernes Santo, el coro en Español se une a otros coros para proveer un servicio bilingüe.

Contact: Kevin Larios, 405-780-3009, klarios357@earthlink.net

Clase de Inglés Como Segunda Lengua San Francisco Javier ofrece una clase de inglés para los miembros de la comunidad Hispana que asisten y participan en la Misa en Español. Venga y adquiera la capacidad de hablar, leer, y escribir en inglés. Aproveche la oportunidad de practicar en un ambiente tranquilo y amigable.

Comuníquese con la Dra. Cida S. Chase, 405-377-0671, csc1937@oksate.edu; Luz Florez, 405-880-0553, lachiqui_2000@yahoo.com

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Your Offering to God

Please bring your completed commitment card to Mass on Oct. 23/24, mail it to the parish in the envelope provided or fill it out online at sfxstillwater.org.

S T. F R A N C I S X AV I E R C AT H O L I C C H U R C H 711 N. Country Club Rd • Stillwater, OK 74075 • 405-372-6886 • SFXStillwater.org