Stewardship
THROUGH THE SAINTS Stewardship Renewal 2021
St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church
Stewardship
THROUGH THE SAINTS God desires for each of us to be with Him in eternal life, meaning God is calling each of us to become a saint. At first, we may think sainthood isn’t for me, it is for the heroic martyrs or mystics. But as Pope Francis reminds us, “To be saints is not a privilege for the few, but a vocation for everyone.” Sanctity is reachable! God would not ask something of us we could not attain. So how can we find the path to sainthood? If we look at the lives of the saints, we see they ultimately lived a life of stewardship. They lived in gratitude for all they had been given and constantly looked to God for ways to share their gifts and talents to build up His Kingdom. As they allowed God into their lives, they surrendered themselves to His plan for them, and by His grace their lives became their path to sainthood and an inspiration for us all. We, too, can surrender to God’s plan for our lives. And it starts by committing to a life of stewardship. We at St. Vincent de Paul have committed to a stewardship way of life. And, this year, we are looking at the lives of the saints to aid us on our stewardship journey. When we look to the saints as examples, we become inspired to open our hearts to what God is asking of us here and now in our own lives. One of the many beauties of the saints is that no two saints are the same — each saint’s story is unique. During our annual Stewardship Renewal, let each of us at St. Vincent de Paul discover how God is calling us to become saints.
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The Gift of Time When we take a closer look at the lives of the saints, among their uniqueness we discover a similarity between them – they all gave God their time. Time is a precious gift, especially in this fast-paced world. We often neglect to share our time with the Gracious Giver who gave it to us. St. Francis of Assisi spent much of his time in silent prayer as he began his conversion, and in the silence, he heard God say, “rebuild my Church.” Without that time spent in prayer, St. Francis would not have known to do the radical work of evangelization God was calling him to do. What is God asking of you? Consider some of these ways to spend time with our Lord:
Spend 10 minutes every morning in quiet prayer by reading and reflecting on Sacred Scripture. A helpful place to start is the readings for each day, found at usccb.org/bible/readings or on Catholic phone and tablet apps, such as iBreviary, Laudate, Magnificat or Divine Office.
Spend time in front of the Blessed Sacrament in Eucharistic Adoration. Talk to Jesus as you are talking to a friend.
Take time for spiritual reading – discover the lives of the saints! Their lives may inspire your journey to sainthood.
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The Gift of Talent As the saints show us, being a good steward of our talents means using them in service to our Lord. St. Ándre Bessette spent 40 years as a doorman, greeting people as they came and went. He would also visit the sick to bring them joy. God worked miracles through his humble acts of service. St. Therese of Lisieux died at the young age of 24 and spent nine years in a cloistered convent. She is one of the greatest saints of our time because of her simple message to live out every single moment with great love. When we surrender our gifts to the Lord, no matter how big or small, He will multiply their effects more than we could imagine. Ask God to show you His plan for your life:
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Reflect on your gifts and talents. No matter how big or small, consider how God might be calling you to serve.
Commit to joining a new ministry – greeters, visiting the homebound; or volunteer at a parish event. Check out our ministry catalog for a ministry God is calling you to serve.
The Gift of Treasure Living a life of stewardship means surrendering ourselves to God — even our material goods and finances. St. Teresa of Calcutta shows us that in order to give God anything, including our treasure, we need to have an undoubting trust and dependence on Him, along with an overwhelming gratitude for everything He has blessed us with. Through her simple life, there was an outpouring of peace, joy and contentment that only God could fill her with. How is God calling you to surrender your treasures to Him?
Take a look at your current budget and spending habits, and assess what expenses are preventing you from giving more selflessly.
Ask yourself if your budget reflects your true priorities so that your spending is a reflection of the values of your Catholic faith.
Commit to giving a percentage of your income to God through the parish offertory and be faithful to this commitment as an expression of your trust in God.
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2021 Ministries Hospitality ANGELS OF THE MORNING This is a women’s bowling league that meets Wednesday morning at 9:30 a.m. at Alley Cats on Pleasant Ridge in south Arlington. Come for a fun time with fellow bowlers and possibly improve your game. Contact: Carol Schreiber, 817-253-9833, bowling@svdpcc.org BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY Members of this ministry are presented with opportunities to be present to families who are dealing with the loss of a family member. Members support bereaved families by preparing and serving meals after funeral services at St. Vincent de Paul. Members of this team prepare, set up, serve funeral receptions following a funeral, and then clean up following the reception. Through their good work, families are able to spend time remembering their family member and offering comfort to each other during a very difficult time. The team members’ caring and compassionate efforts are a source of comfort and support to the family and friends of the deceased. Contact: Mary Walton, 817-805-1674, bereavement@svdpcc.org; Kay Christian, kayxian@sbcglobal.net EMPTY NESTERS This is a social group of parishioners who no longer have children or dependents at home requiring parental supervision. They gather to enjoy each other’s company with a number of activities such as dining out, game nights, movies and theatre, or even listening to music at Levitt Pavilion. Contact: Janice Noce, 817-483-7625, emptynesters@svdpcc.org 6
FALL FESTIVAL During the fall, around Halloween, a twohour festival is held for children in sixth grade and younger with inflatables, games and prizes. Helpers of all ages are needed to decorate at the church and to run the games, crafts and snack bar. Join us for family, fellowship and fun. Contact: Ines Roach, 817-874-4165, fallfestival@svdpcc.org; Mindy Magana, mmagana@appliedmedical.com GOLF MINISTRY Each Tuesday of the year, golfing parishioners challenge the golf courses of the area while enjoying camaraderie, Christian fellowship and a little bit of exercise! The men of the Golf Ministry provide support to St. Vincent de Paul by exercising leadership and participation in the various activities of the parish, such as the annual Parish Picnic, Hospitality/ Ushering, resources for the Women’s Shelter, contributions to the St. Vincent de Paul Alms program, maintenance and improvements to the parish grounds. Contact: Charlie Reilly, golfministry@svdpcc.org GRACE MINISTRY Members of this group meet bi-weekly to write cards to parishioners who are ill or have experienced a death in the family as a beautiful reminder that although they may be in the midst of suffering, they are not forgotten. Contact: Pru Brett, 817-478-8206, graceministry@svdpcc.org GREETERS The role of the greeter is one of offering a friendly welcoming presence to those entering the outer doors of the church, and answering any questions they might have about the
liturgy or the parish. This is a great opportunity for families to serve together and welcome others with a smile. Contact: Don McGrath, 817-944-1940, greeters@svdpcc.org
at the Arlington city jail. This is a women-towomen or men-to-men ministry. Contact: Maureen Vega, 817-429-6136, prisonministry@svdpcc.org; Deacon Bruce Corbett, bcorbett@svdpcc.org
GRIEF SUPPORT MINISTRY In nine weekly sessions beginning in midJanuary and mid-August, those who have lost a loved one can meet, share, talk and listen with those who understand and care. Supporting one another through this ministry is a beautiful way to reach out as Christ’s hands to those in need. The sessions meet on Tuesday evenings. Contact: Pam Heroux, 817-919-9563, griefsupport@svdpcc.org; David Lacerda, lacerda@sbcglobal.net
SAINTLY SENIORS ACTIVITIES This ministry provides fellowship and fun for those who are retired 65-plus. Saintly Seniors gather from noon-2 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month to play Bingo, and on the third Tuesday of the month to watch a movie. Contact: Diane Donahue, dianedonahue@hotmail.com
LAS POSADAS Posada means “lodging” or “special journey.” Each year we commemorate Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. At Las Posadas, there is a re-enactment play followed by a dinner and some traditional Hispanic entertainment (Mariachi and Matachines). This event celebrates an honored and revered Hispanic tradition. Ministers help with planning and organizing the evening’s events — they set up, cook, serve and direct the play. Contact: Linda Hernandez, 817-657-3667, lasposadas@svdpcc.org MOMMY AND ME Parents of preschoolers come together twice a month for fun social activities. This is a great opportunity to build community with likeminded mothers who enjoy good fellowship! Contact: Amanda Cooper, mommynme@svdpcc.org PRISON MINISTRY “I was in prison and you visited me” (Matthew 25:36). Your participation in the St. Vincent de Paul Prison Ministry will allow you to respond to this call of Jesus through visiting and/or mentoring with women incarcerated in the women’s federal prison at Carswell or men
SECOND SUNDAY The weekend of the second Sunday of every month, we gather for fellowship and fun after all the Masses. This ministry provides a time to relax and get to know our fellow parishioners while enjoying refreshments and other activities. Contact: 2ndsunday@svdpcc.org STEPHEN MINISTRY This ministry provides someone to confidentially listen, encourage, pray, and provide emotional and spiritual support to those going through a life crisis. Special training is required and provided for those who choose to minister in this arena. Opportunities for training vary each year. If you are in need of a Stephen Minister, please contact us. Contact: Marilyn Dietrich, 817-457-1658, stephenministry@svdpcc.org USHERS Ushers serve a dual role as ministers of hospitality and ministers of order. Ushers welcome parishioners to the church, keep order at liturgical celebrations, take attendance, collect the offerings and assist those in need. Contact: Tim Tucker, 817-465-3968, usher@svdpcc.org
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Prayer ACOLYTES Acolytes are installed, or instituted, by the bishop of a diocese to assist the priest or deacon. The acolyte has specific liturgical duties by rubric. If needed, he helps the priest or deacon to purify the sacred vessels following Communion. By virtue of institution, the acolyte is an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. Contact: Nolan Brett, 817-800-7262, acolyte@svdpcc.org ALTAR SERVERS Altar servers may be fourth grade and older who assist the Presider during liturgical celebrations. Individuals must be baptized and have received their First Eucharist. Training is provided before being assigned. Contact: Wayne Sulak, 817-360-5922, altarservers@svdpcc.org ART AND ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE Members of this committee develop and implement the décor and ambiance in the liturgical space to enhance the worship experience of the parishioners based on the liturgical seasons of the year (Advent, Christmastide, Lent, Easter, etc.). This committee needs creative individuals to plan for the beauty of the sanctuary, some to help place the décor,
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and some to water and maintain the plants. You do not have to be an artist to serve in this group — just a desire to beautify our worship space. Contact: Anne LaMere, artsnenviro@svdpcc.org DEVOTIONAL MINISTRY The goal of this ministry is to encourage and promote opportunities for communal prayer in order to deepen the faith life of the parish. These include but are not limited to the 7 p.m. Tuesday evening Rosary, the funeral Rosary when requested, Divine Mercy Chaplet, and Stations of the Cross during Lent. Contact: Beverly Keiser, 817-466-2340, devotional@svdpcc.org; Mary Ann Witzberger, witzma@juno.com EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion assist the priest and deacon to distribute the Body and Blood of Christ during Mass. These ministers are to be practicing Catholics who have received the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. Training is provided by the parish before serving in this ministry. Contact: Bobby Gutierrez, 817-478-8206, eme@svdpcc.org; Kevin Brett, kbrett1996@sbcglobal.net HOSPITAL AND HOMEBOUND VISITATION MINISTRY This ministry allows you to be present in a special way to those who are sick and/or unable to attend Mass for health reasons. In serving through the Hospital and Homebound Visitation Ministry, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion regularly visit and bring the Blessed Sacrament to those who are hospitalized, in nursing homes within our parish boundary, and/or homebound. Service in this ministry provides you with a beautiful opportunity to bring Christ to His people in a very real way, as well as to simply be present to those who are suffering in some way. Contact: Ray Brett, 817-478-8206, hospital@svdpcc.org
MUSIC MINISTRY: ADULT CHOIR The members of this ministry add prayerful support and beauty to our parish liturgies by supporting the assembly in song with their voices and enhancing the music with harmonies and solos. The Adult Choir sings year-round at the Mass of their choice. It is open to anyone high school age or older. Rehearsals are Wednesday evenings, 7-9 p.m. Contact: Bob Ellis, 817-907-1377, musicministry@svdpcc.org MUSIC MINISTRY: CHILDREN’S CHOIR The children’s choir sings during multiple liturgies from November through Easter Sunday. It is open to anyone from third through sixth grades. Rehearsals are Tuesday evenings, 6-7 p.m. Contact: Kevin Keil, 817-478-8206, ext. 235, kkeil@svdpcc.org MUSIC MINISTRY: CANTOR/PSALMIST Cantors and psalmists are drawn from members of the choir. Anyone interested in being a cantor/psalmist should first join the choir and then audition with the director. Contact: Donna Simpson, 817-946-8968 MUSIC MINISTRY: INSTRUMENTALISTS Instrumentalists enhance the music at Mass by adding solo instrument parts to the singing, as well as solo performances. This ministry is available to any instrumentalist (e.g. flute, guitar, violin, etc.) who has played their instrument for at least two years. Contact: Bob Ellis, 817-907-1377, musicministry@svdpcc.org; Kevin Keil, 817-478-8206, ext. 235, kkeil@svdpcc.org PRAYER CHAIN MINISTRY Members of this ministry offer support to parishioners and the community through the power of prayer. They may be contacted when a parish member, or a member’s friends or family are afraid, alone, sick or facing a crisis. Members are asked to agree to a vow of
confidentiality. The form of prayer is left to the discretion of the individual ministry member. Contact: Shirley Kinworthy, 817-429-1427, prayerchain@svdpcc.org PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY Members of this ministry knit or crochet prayer shawls, which are blessed and given to someone who is suffering in body, mind or spirit. We mainly give these shawls to people in our parish, but we do reach out to those beyond our parish, as well. This is also a great opportunity to fellowship with others who have a love of this beautiful hobby, which, in turn, blesses others. Contact: Jan Nelson, 817-496-9646, prayershawl@svdpcc.org READER The reader proclaims the Word of God at Mass and other liturgical services. The reader is to read the Scripture in a clear and meaningful way so that everyone can hear and understand what is being proclaimed. Readers are to be practicing Catholics who have received the Sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist. Contact: Larry Hurley, readers@svdpcc.org SACRISTAN The sacristan has the humble but necessary responsibility of preparing the altar and worship space for the congregation and the celebrant to properly and prayerfully celebrate the Mass, and has both pre- and post-Mass duties. Contact: Mary Walton, 817-805-1674, sacristans@svdpcc.org 9
VOCATIONS COMMITTEE The Vocations Committee promotes vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and consecrated life, while affirming and supporting those who have already answered the call of service to the Church. Through prayer, Eucharistic Adoration every Friday after Mass until 7 p.m. and other programs, we seek to increase awareness within our parish of the shared task of identifying, inviting and nourishing these vocations. Contact: Rhea Johnson, 817-455-7970, vocationsministry@svdpcc.org
Formation CHILDREN: CATECHESIS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD Our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS) Program, otherwise known as “the Atrium,” is a hands-on learning class based on Montessori principles, grounded in our Catholic faith. Adult assistants are needed to help certified CGS catechists with the variety of liturgical materials and lessons presented to and used by the children. The goal of the Atrium is to foster the living relationship between the child and Christ. If an adult assistant would like to become a certified CGS Catechist, training is available. Contact: Michal Tincup, 817-478-8206, ext. 213, mtincup@svdpcc.org CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD Children from kindergarten through fifth grade are invited to hear the Sunday Scriptures proclaimed and interpreted at their level during each weekend Mass. Opportunities are available to lead the sessions or help supervise the children. A commitment of one Mass a month is requested. Contact: Jo-Lee Buncic, 817-478-8206, ext. 214, jbuncic@svdpcc.org 10
CHILDREN SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION Children receive special preparation for their first reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. Classes take place on Tuesday evenings in October and November for Reconciliation prep, and February through April for Eucharist prep. Both parents and children receive formation in preparation for these sacraments. Catechists, aides and team support ministers provide a faith-filled environment for all. Contact: Michal Tincup, 817-478-8206, ext. 213, mtincup@svdpcc.org ELEMENTARY FAITH FORMATION One of the best ways to know your faith is to teach it to someone else! Faith Formation is offered to children in first through sixth grade on Sundays (9:15-10:30 a.m.) and Wednesdays (5:30-6:45 p.m.) during the school year. Catechists, hall monitors and receptionists provide for a secure and quality catechetical environment. Leaders are requested to make a commitment for the catechetical period. Training and materials are provided! Contact: Jo-Lee Buncic, 817-478-8206, ext. 214, jbuncic@svdpcc.org; Nicholas Senz, 817-478-8206, ext. 217, nsenz@svdpcc.org PRESCHOOL FAITH FORMATION “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matthew 19:14). Formation classes for preschoolers age 2 through kindergarten are held from 9:1510:30 a.m. on Sundays. A commitment of one year is requested for catechists and aides. Training, lesson plans, supplies, and support are provided for catechists, aides and helpers. Contact: Michal Tincup, 817-478-8206, ext. 213, mtincup@svdpcc.org
RCIA ADAPTED FOR CHILDREN TEAM The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults Adapted for Children is a process for children age 7 and above who are seeking Baptism or full communion with the Catholic Church to prepare for a lifelong faith journey. Team members journey with the children and their families as sponsors, catechists and companions along the way. Contact: Nicholas Senz, 817-478-8206, ext. 217, nsenz@svdpcc.org VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL In the summer we will offer Vacation Bible School for both preschool and elementaryage children. Vacation Bible School leaders assist as catechists and with decorations, arts and crafts, snacks, music, audio-visual and Bible stories. It’s truly a fun opportunity for all involved! Contact: Michal Tincup, 817-478-8206, ext. 213, mtincup@svdpcc.org
YOUTH: RCIA ADAPTED FOR TEENS TEAM The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults Adapted for Teens is designed for those in their teenage years who are seeking Baptism, First Eucharist or full communion with the Catholic Church to prepare for a lifelong faith journey. Team members
support these teenagers in their journey by serving as sponsors and catechists. Contact: Nic Guiterrez, 817-478-8206, ext. 216, nguiterrez@svdpcc.org YOUTH MINISTRY CORE TEAM We are a community of young that are a part of the overall Church and set out to create lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ. Driven by the Holy Spirit, Youth Ministry aims to root teens in the Church through radical encounters by community, encounter, discipleship and mission. The Core Team helps implement the night and also has roles in giving talks, giving testimony, leading games and small-group discussion. Contact: Nic Guiterrez, 817-478-8206, ext. 216, nguiterrez@svdpcc.org
ADULTS: ADULT BIBLE STUDY Deepen your faith by going deep into the Word of God in guided sessions of study and discussion. Several Bible studies are offered throughout the year. Meetings take place on Wednesday mornings and Thursday evenings. Childcare is offered for the Wednesday morning sessions. Contact: Rhea Johnson, 817-455-7970, biblestudy@svdpcc.org
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BAPTISMAL PREPARATION TEAM Members of this team assist in offering monthly seminars to prepare families for the Baptism of their children and their initiation into the Body of Christ. Training is provided. Contact: Joanne Hubartt, 817-561-7919, baptism@svdpcc.org; Tiffany and Roger Burns, burns.tiffany@sbcglobal.net BOOK CLUB Parishioners gather to discuss books of interest to Catholic readers. This is a great way to continue forming your intellect and grow in wisdom and knowledge. Contact: Patti Belknap, bookclub@svdpcc.org HOME STUDY GROUPS Opportunities are made available for small, home-based discussion groups throughout the year for continuing adult religious education, spiritual enrichment and Christian Catholic fellowship. Join one of the existing home study groups or form your own. Contact: Nicholas Senz, 817-478-8206, ext. 217, nsenz@svdpcc.org RCIA TEAM Help to introduce and lead people into the Catholic faith! The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults prepares adults for Baptism and reception into full communion with the Church. Team members help in this discernment process by leading small discussion groups, Breaking Open the Word, sponsoring a catechumen or candidate, serving as a catechist or providing hospitality. Contact: Nicholas Senz, 817-478-8206, ext. 217, nsenz@svdpcc.org SAFE ENVIRONMENT AWARENESS FACILITATOR Facilitators lead the Safe Environment Awareness Sessions for the parishioners of the diocese. As a facilitator, your Safe 12
Environment training needs to be up-todate and have a clear background check. Facilitators are trained by the diocese Safe Environment department. Facilitators are asked to lead about six sessions each year. Contact: RenĂŠe Bader, 817-478-8206, ext. 204, rbader@svdpcc.org SPONSOR COUPLES Sponsor couples help prepare engaged couples for the Sacrament of Matrimony by inviting them into meaningful discussions about various aspects of marriage and family life. Contact: Jason and Ines Roach, 817-874-4165, marriageprep@svdpcc.org THE VINEYARD Come for faith, food and fellowship. Weekly sessions with presentations on different topics of the life of faith, including questions and discussions. No registration required, but it is encouraged. Contact: Nicholas Senz, 817-478-8206, ext. 217, nsenz@svdpcc.org THE VINEYARD HOSPITALITY TEAM Help to create a welcoming environment by putting together a delicious spread of food and drink for our weekly Vineyard sessions. The parish reimburses within reason. Contact: Nicholas Senz, 817-478-8206, ext. 217, nsenz@svdpcc.org
Service ALTAR ANGELS These special people take care of our altar linens — altar cloths, corporals and purificators. Linens are picked up each week, cleaned and brought back to the church. Contact: Barbara Davis, 817-480-4022, altarangels@svdpcc.org AUDIO/VISUAL MINISTRY AV Ministers coordinate the audio/visual for the live stream Masses, and assist with lighting needs for Masses and other liturgical celebrations. This ministry is open to high school students and adults. Training is required. Contact: Maribeth Mata, audiovisual@svdpcc.org BEAR MINISTRY Plush teddy bears are collected and distributed to the children at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth. This is a great opportunity to share a lot of love with some of God’s most precious little children. Contact: Wendy Perez, 817-478-8206, ext. 209, bearcollection@svdpcc.org CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF ARLINGTON (HOPE CENTER) Our bold vision is to end poverty in our community, one family at a time. We focus on creating solutions to the problems our clients face, we eradicate the barriers that trap people in poverty, and transform the conversation about poverty on the local and national level. Join our mission by volunteering at the office — providing hospitality to our clients or assisting in appointments in the Hope Center, or volunteering to drive with our Transportation Program! Contact: Marianna Stone, catholiccharities@svdpcc.org FINANCE ADVISORY COUNCIL The Finance Advisory Council is appointed by the pastor, according to the criteria established
by the Diocese of Fort Worth. The role of the parish finance council is fiscal stewardship. The parish finance council serves as an advisory body to the pastor in the administration and stewardship of finances, budget, facilities and long-term financial planning. Openings on the council vary by year. Contact: Michael Erwin, financeadvisors@svdpcc.org FOOD CART MINISTRY Each Sunday, food baskets are available for parishioners to make donations of nonperishable food items, diapers and toiletries, which are taken to Arlington Charities the following Monday. Ministers are needed to collect and deliver items. Simply sharing with those less fortunate can help all of us deepen our sense of thanksgiving for all God has given to us! Contact: Kathleen Polozola, 817-483-7217, foodcart@svdpcc.org GOOD SAMARITANS OF THE OPEN ARMS CLINIC This ministry attempts to model the corporal work of mercy to comfort the sick, which means first of all to comfort them with something they urgently need, namely proper medical assistance. Consequently, the Good Samaritans of St. Vincent de Paul support and/or participate in the work of the Open Arms Health Clinic, located on Little Road, to provide free, quality and compassionate healthcare to individuals and families with limited access to healthcare. There is something for every Good Samaritan to do. This work takes a “village” — ministers can help by making dinner for the medical team, help translate, pray for the patient’s needs, be a spokesperson for the clinic... the list goes on. The Good Samaritans of the Open Arms Clinic of St. Vincent de Paul invites everyone to share the love of Jesus and His merciful heart to make this clinic in our church neighborhood a place of loving comfort and care. Contact: Jeanette Fitzpatrick, 817-429-6136, openarms@svdpcc.org 13
LANDSCAPE MINISTRY This ministry strives to maintain the beautiful flower beds on the property of St. Vincent de Paul. They work year round to keep the plants healthy by making sure they are watered and have nurturance, and reducing the weeds. It is a very flexible time commitment for individuals, families or groups of people who love digging in the dirt. Contact: Donna Simpson, 817-946-8968, landscape@svdpcc.org MEN’S CLUB The purposes and objectives of the St. Vincent de Paul Men’s Club are to aid in the development and growth of the parish, to develop fellowship as a way of life, to promote an active interest in parish and civic affairs, to inspire respect for the law, and to promote patriotism. The Men’s Club has an elected Board of Directors and meets for deliberations on the second Monday of every month. They organize a number of activities for the St. Vincent de Paul community throughout the year, which include the Annual Parish Picnic and the Lenten fish fry events. They also serve the needs of the broader Arlington community through charitable donations and service activities, such as preparing meals for the Arlington Night Shelter. They work towards growing together in Christian fellowship and encouraging each other to live more dynamically for Christ. Contact: Tom Wallace, president@svdpmc.org
MISSION COUNCIL Since 2001, the Mission Council has been involved in building chapels, renovating churches and retreat facilities, and providing needed supplies to churches in both other countries and other states. By coming face-to-face with the poor both at home and abroad, the Mission Council is able to make a difference in the lives of others who we may never meet. This is a great opportunity to embrace the call to reach out to the poorest of the poor and make a difference in the lives of many. Contact: Ross Martinez, missioncouncil@svdpcc.org MONEY COUNTERS Members of this ministry make a careful and accurate counting of our weekly collection of your stewardship of treasure. All collections are counted in accord with the Guidelines of the Diocese of Fort Worth. Teams are made up of four to six members and serve about every five weeks. Members or teams could be asked to serve as substitutes as the need arises. Contact: John Pearson, 817-478-8206, counters@svdpcc.org; Laura Crocker, lcrocker@svdpcc.org NOREEN’S NOURISHMENT Prior to March 2020 this ministry provides hot meals each weekend to families and caregivers of children battling cancer and cystic fibrosis at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth. We continue to send monetary support to the chaplain who distributes it to the families in need. When the hospital restrictions are lifted, we will resume serving hot meals on Sundays at CCMC. Contact: Amy Minton, 817-229-2388, noreensnourish@yahoo.com; Mindy Magana, mmagana@appliedmedical.com OFFICE ANGELS Members of this ministry are the welcoming smile that greets both parishioners and visitors during office hours Monday through Friday. Their service includes general
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secretarial duties such as answering the phone, distributing mail and printing materials. If you have a two or three-hour window of time during the week or would be open to substituting as needed, we invite you to join us. Contact: Debbie Horn, 817-478-8206, officeangels@svdpcc.org SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL The Society of St. Vincent de Paul is dedicated to feeding, clothing, housing, and healing individuals and families in our community who have nowhere else to turn for help. The society provides meaningful opportunities for ministers to serve their neighbors in need with love and compassion by visiting them face-to-face in their homes. We provide help for people’s physical, mental and spiritual needs. By doing this with care and respect, we show them that they matter and they are children of God. Contact: Barbara Christoff, 817-478-8206, ext. 401, societyofsvdp@svdpcc.org STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE The Stewardship Committee works with the pastor and other parish groups on how to promote the Stewardship Way of Life in all facets of the parish. This is done through the extension of hospitality, promotion of prayer, emphasizing Catholic formation, increasing the activities of service to others, providing direction for the monthly newsletter, hosting quarterly leadership meetings, and sponsoring the annual Stewardship Renewal and Ministry Fair. Contact: Bret Burgess, stewardship@svdpcc.org
WOMEN’S GUILD The Women’s Guild worships God and serves our community through our prayers, good works and fellowship. We seek to serve our members and their families, so that they may come together to learn about, to grow in love and respect for, and to care for each other and our Savior, Jesus Christ. We seek to offer this family environment to others by extending our hearts, hands and prayers to others in times of need, sickness, grief, joy and happiness so that the love of Jesus may take on a real and physical nature. The Women’s Guild accomplishes this mission with a monthly membership dinner, fellowship, social events, support of many parish activities such as the annual Easter Egg Hunt, the Parish Picnic, Fall Festival, Las Posadas, altar flowers, baptismal garments, and support of the Arlington community, such as assisting with Meals on Wheels, Arlington Life Shelter, Society of St. Vincent de Paul, and other groups. Contact: Janice Carter, 817-320-3162, womensguild@svdpcc.org
WEDDING COORDINATORS Wedding coordinators assist engaged couples planning for the wedding, assist with the wedding rehearsal and coordinating the ceremony on the day of the wedding. Contact: Deacon Bruce Corbett, 817-478-8206, bcorbett@svdpcc.org 15
Please bring your completed Commitment Card to Mass on February 6/7, mail it to the parish in the envelope provided, or fill it out online at svdpcc.org. Stewardship
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Using My Talents in Parish Ministries
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Prayer is the beginning of stewardship. Only when we spend time with God in prayer are we spiritually prepared to offer ourselves in service to others.
You can read about each of the ministries listed below in the Ministry Catalog. When you sign up, the ministry leader will call to explain how to get involved.
In thanksgiving for God’s gifts, each household at St. Vincent de Paul is asked to give a specific percentage of income based on the biblical tithe:
Please check the circle next to your commitments to prayer:
eam
Attend Mass every Sunday and Holy Day
ent Card 2021 Commitm
Attend weekday Mass at least once a week Invite a friend or acquaintance to Mass Pray together with my family Discuss our Catholic Faith with my children
e
First & Last Nam
Read the Bible for a half hour a week
ngton
Spend 15 minutes a day in personal prayer
Phone
l
Pray the Rosary at least once a week Go to confession at least every other month
Open
Spend extra time with my spouse each day
Spouse: First &
Pray for my country daily
Last Name
Pray for an increase in vocations Pray for our priests
Spouse: Phone
t
Pray for persecuted Christians Pray for life from conception to natural death
Spouse: Email
de Paul tee rs
Pray for those serving in the military Pray for fallen-away Catholics Spend time each week in Eucharistic Adoration
Address
holic Church
ngton, TX 7601 org
Spending Time with God in Prayer
Time
SAINTS THROUGH THEolic Church
ed
6
City
State
ZIP
card to please bring this . After completion, envelope provided or mail using the God bless you! Thank you and
Mass
Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet once a week Pray for the Church during these difficult times
Offertory Gift
5% to St. Vincent de Paul
=Currently Involved =Interested in Joining
plus 1% to the diocese 4% to other charities
Please clearly write the first name of interested family member on the line.
Hospitality Angels of the Morning Bereavement Ministry Empty Nesters Fall Festival Golf Ministry Grace Ministry Greeters Grief Support Ministry Las Posadas Mommy and Me Prison Ministry Saintly Seniors Activities Second Sunday Stephen Ministry Ushers
My Offertory pledge to St. Vincent de Paul: %
Percentage of household income:
Please complete either a weekly or monthly offertory gift:
Weekly gift
$
x52 =
$
annually
$
x12 =
$
annually
or Monthly gift
Weekly giving based on proportion of income.
Prayer
Weekly Giving Chart
Acolytes Altar Servers Art and Environment Committee Devotional Ministry Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
% of Hshld.Income:
10%
Household Income $30,000 $50,000 $70,000 $100,000 $200,000
$58 $96 $135 $192 $384
5%
4%
Amount of Weekly Gift $29 $23 $48 $38 $67 $54 $96 $76 $192 $154
1% $6 $10 $14 $19 $38
continued on back panels
“We should abandon ourselves entirely into the hands of God, and believe that His providence disposes everything that He wishes or permits to happen to us for our greater good.”
— St. Vincent de Paul
Your Offering to God A CALL TO COMMITMENT
We are all called to be holy and we are all called to be saints! This path to sainthood starts with making a commitment to our Lord. Our Stewardship Renewal at St. Vincent de Paul is a time to put God first in our hearts and to express this growth through written commitments. Pray about how God is calling you to become a saint. Let us journey to sainthood together!
St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church 5819. W. Pleasant Ridge Road • Arlington, TX 76016 • 817-478-8206 • svdpcc.org