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News from Pastor in Training (P.I.T.)

From our daily confessions, which are many, to our week long confessions during the 5th week of Lent, our long Holy week confession lines, and our Divine Mercy service confessions, you would think that as a priest I would say, "Ok, no more confessions please!" However, I know that I will always both promote, and seek out the beautiful Sacrament myself. This is not only because it has a tremendous impact on my life, or because I've been consecrated as a priest of Jesus Christ to offer the Sacrament and forgiveness of sins. At an even more fundamental level, our Gospel today points out that repentance and forgiveness of sins is the foundation of our Church, and needs to be proclaimed to the whole world (cf. Luke 24:47).

In our first reading from the Acts of the Apostles, St. Peter recounts our Lord’s Passion to the crowds gathering after he performed a healing in the temple. He recalls the Israelite people choosing Barabbas, a murderer, over Jesus. What was St. Peter doing? He was encouraging those listening to “repent so that there can be forgiveness of sins” (cf. Acts 3:19). Barabbas has an interesting meaning in Scripture. Bar means "son of" and Abba means "father." Hence, Israelite people were making a choice: which son of the father they would follow. Will they follow Barabbas, who followed his selfish passions, or Jesus, who surrenders himself completely as a self-gift?

This same choice is offered to us every day. How many of us choose our own selfish desires over that of a sacrificial love like our Lord? And if we choose selfishness, what should our response be? Well, as the readings and Gospel point out, we need to repent (again) and receive the forgiveness of our sins (again)!

As we journey in our faith together, can I encourage you to see the Sacrament of Reconciliation as a gift that the Lord desires you to receive? It is not a punishment, but a reception of great joy and love. The Lord is patient with us and always merciful. He is moving us by His grace to grow ever closer to him in this Sacrament. In receiving his mercy and love, we are able to respond in mercy and love to the world. Even with all our scheduled confessions times, as your pastor, I will always be open to finding more opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation to be celebrated and received.

Fr. Michael

...

For reference, below is our current Confession schedule.

Did you miss one? View past news from the P.I.T. here.

SoulCore resumes 4/17

All women are invited to SoulCore on Wednesday evenings at 6:30pm to nourish body and soul through prayer, core strengthening and functional movements. This Easter season we will be praying the Glorious Mysteries.
In May, SoulCore is holding a fitness challenge that women can take part in called "Movement for Mary" commit to 30 minutes of movement per day (your choice...cardio, strength or stretch) and pray at least one decade of the rosary each day. The focus is on different titles of Mary. Each week you'll receive an email containing 5 SoulCore Rosary single decade videos, with movements and reflection to accompany each title, you can sign up to take part in this challenge here.
Let us know you are attending, register here or just show up with a work-out mat, bottle of water and wear comfortable clothing on Wednesdays at 6:15pm so we can start at 6:30pm on April 17, May 1, 8, 15, and 22.

St Vincent de Paul Society 4/17

Come and find out more about the St. Vincent de Paul Society on Wednesday April 17th at 7pm.
Who is the Our Lady of Mercy St. Vincent de Paul Society?
We are a parish group of men and women who are called to follow Jesus Christ through service to our neighbors. You can find these details at their website.
Who are the neighbors assisted?
- They are parishioners and non-parishioners who experience a temporary financial set back.
- They are single mothers who have missed a paycheck due to a
  child’s illness.
- They are people living paycheck to paycheck where one
  unexpected expense, like a car repair or medical bill can cause
  them to get behind on rent or utility payments.
How does the society help them?
- We visit them in their homes and listen to their needs and
  concerns.
- We help them with rent or mortgage payments, utility payments or food certificates.
How can you help?
- You can donate to the St Vincent de Paul Society, either with a
  monthly envelope or through online giving.
- You can join our society. We need your help. Come to our next meeting is Wednesday April 17 at 7pm.
Last year, with God’s grace and parish donations, the Our Lady of Mercy’s St. Vincent de Paul Society assisted 79 families! That is 79 families who were able to stay in their home, have their electricity or water service restored. Thank you again for your continued support. Please keep our society and those we help in your prayers.

7 Great Dates Continues on Friday 4/19

The 7 Great Dates aka the Marriage Course is a series of 7 sessions encompassed with food, talk, and private discussion between the couple only. Each session features leading experts, teaching content, and stories from around the globe.
Although each date night builds upon the previous night, 𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙟𝙤𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚, even if they missed the first one. Each date night is also designed to be enjoyed independently from the previous date night. Take this opportunity to invest in the flourishing of your relationship. Secure your place now and prioritize the enrichment of your marriage at the following link
Fridays from 6:30pm to 8:30pm through May 17th.
Upcoming date nights are 4/19 Resolving Conflicts, 4/26 The Power of Forgiveness, 5/3 The Impact of Family, 5/10 Good Sex, and 5/17 Love in Action.

Joliet Youth Day Registration Deadline 4/21st

Joliet Youth Day is for 8th through 12th grade teens! This one-day conference is a great way to grow in our Catholic faith alongside other teens from our Diocese! Join Bishop Ronald Hicks and others for this fun, active, and prayerful experience designed for the young Church!
More information and the registration packet can be found HERE.

Fit Shepherds on Wednesday and Saturday mornings

To all men, in this time of renewed dedication to fitness, consider joining Fit Shepherds—a unique fusion of physical and spiritual growth. Join us for challenging workouts Saturdays at 7am and Wednesdays at 5:30am in the parking lot, as we strive to become better in every aspect of life, inspired by the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.
Dads are encouraged to bring their sons 5th grade and older.
Get a glimpse of a Saturday morning work out and see the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hiVMnLrRzf0
For more information check out their website at this link or connect with Alex Baier who is looking forward to hearing from you; email him at abaier823@gmail.com

Weekly Praying for Priests

A prayer group has been praying for priests in front of the Blessed Sacrament weekly for over a year now, as well as on First Fridays. Even if you can't join the group inside the church, you can pray wherever you are at during the times below.
Wednesdays at 10:30am - Rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy with meditations for priests,
Thursdays at 12:30pm - Rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy with meditations for priests,
First Friday of the month following 12pm Mass - Stations of the Cross with meditations for priests in the narthex.

Restore Weekly Restore Confidential Meetings

Restore is a ministry that accompanies men so as to win the battle against the struggles of living a lust-free life.
The ministry meets at a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and accountability and share ideas about strengthening their resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of the addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day. Though the meetings are weekly, at the last weekly meeting of the month, men are guided by a licensed Catholic therapist. If you are ready to start breaking free from the struggles of living chastely and want to Restore your life email Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet or call 331-684-7415.

Come Visit Jesus in the New Adoration Chapel

Create more time for silence and prayer in your schedule by spending time with Jesus at the new Eucharistic Adoration Chapel anytime right after the 8am Mass until 10pm.
We're currently seeking committed adorers for Wednesdays at 1pm and 3pm.
We continue to seek second adorers for the times where we only have one committed adorer.
Proceed here to sign up.
Fr. Michael is urging us to not only dedicate an hour to spend with Jesus but also to consider sharing this commitment with one or two friends. If you're unsure about making this commitment, this suggestion offers a lovely way to overcome any doubts and enhance your friendships. Just imagine the enriching conversations you could have with each other about your experiences spending time with Jesus.

Every Holy Hour we make so pleases the Heart of Jesus that it is recorded in Heaven and retold for all eternity!

St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

Faith Formation Open House 4/20 & 4/21

Come to the PLC after all Masses
🙏 Come EXPLORE all of our Faith Formation options for children in grades K through 12! This includes Sacramental Preparation, Vacation Bible School, & Formation for those with special needs/DisABILITIES
🙏 Come REGISTER your children for the 2024-2025 year, and take advantage of our Early Bird Pricing!
🙏 Come VOLUNTEER and help share our beautiful faith with children & their families
…. And enjoy donuts & coffee! :)

Mission Trip Bake Sale after all Masses 4/20 & 4/21

Get some delicious baked goods at our Bake Sale on Saturday-Sunday, April 20-21 after all masses in the PLC! All proceeds support the Teen Summer Mission Trip!

Meet & Greet Gathering 4/21

𝟰/𝟮𝟭 @ 𝟭𝟭:𝟭𝟱𝗮𝗺 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀/𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝗹𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 & 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁 𝗚𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴!
Whether you've recently registered as a member (parishioner) or if you've been attending our Sunday or Daily Mass, actively participating in community life, 𝘄𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗼 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗶𝘁 𝗼𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗯𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗮 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿/𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁 & 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁—𝘄𝗲'𝗹𝗹 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀! We hope to see you on Sunday 4/21 for a joyful experience of connection, belonging, and the start of a beautiful journey together. We can't wait to meet you and welcome you officially into the OLM family!

New Teen Youth Group called Refuge Meets on 4/21, & 4/28

High School students are invited to join the new OLM High School Youth Ministry, called "Refuge" Come by on Sundays in April from 3:16pm-5:16pm, in the Youth Center (Room 211). If you have a teenager in your life, please let them know of this new youth group where they'll find a safe and fun place to grow and find positive social connections within a solid Catholic community

Mondays with Monica and Augustine 4/22

Join Mondays With Monica And Augustine Prayer Group at 7:30pm in the Church to pray "The Way of the Cross for Loved Ones Who Have Left the Faith."
Let's come together to uplift our family and friends who have strayed from the faith. Your presence and prayers can make a profound impact. We kindly request registration to ensure an ample supply of prayer books, yet we warmly welcome walk-ins as well. Proceed here for details and registration.

Bible Study on the Book of Revelation 4/23

On Tuesday evenings at 7pm through 5/21st, the Bible Study on the book of Revelation is held. We will use the Ascension Press "Revelation: The Kingdom Yet to Come" study guide and video. Please purchase the study guide online at the link below. As Easter culminates in the coming of Jesus and His Kingdom, we’ll dive deep into the second coming. Join us anytime for this Book of good news and learn more about our mass through the revelation of John.
Register for the study here. Purchase study guide here

Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group Continues on Tuesday 4/23

Calling all young adults, join our Consuming Fire Young Adult Grow Group (CFYA) on Tuesdays at 7pm for community, faith building and social gatherings. Reach out to cfyagg@gmail.com to get plugged in with the group or sign up at the link HERE. On Tuesday 4/23rd, our seminarian Topher Otieno will be giving the talk.

An Easter MAGNIFY Adoration, Praise & Worship 4/24

Saint Pope John Paul II said "We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song" so let us praise the King of Kings at MAGNIFY. Hear a scriptural reflection from Fr. Michael, or go to Confession, receive prayer ministry, or adore Jesus singing praises to Him for rescuing us. It's also a wonderful family time with the kids and Jesus.
A quick note on worship/singing to Jesus. Have you noticed how uplifted, less burdened you are after singing to Jesus at MAGNIFY? God has designed our bodies so perfectly that when you sing, blood is pumped through your body which stimulates the production of three great hormones and suppresses one bad hormone. The three good hormones include endorphins and dopamine, which promote relaxation and well-being. And the other good hormone is oxytocin, which is the hormone that is produced when a mother sings to their baby, or when you lovingly look at your dog. It is the hormone of belonging, of community, of cohesion, of goodwill towards your fellow human beings.
The bad hormone, that is suppressed when you sing, is cortisol which is produced in the body when we are stressed and singing is a natural de-stressing agent. In essence, singing to Jesus at MAGNIFY not only uplifts our spirits but also positively impacts our physical well-being. We hope to see you on 4/24th.

Catholic Charities Mobile Food Pantry 4/25

The Mobile Food Pantry is on Thursday 4.25 from 4:30pm to 6pm in the Our Lady of Mercy Parking Lot. Don’t forget to share the Our Lady of Mercy social media posting on your network; 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝗮𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱.
The Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet Mobile Food Pantry delivers healthy food (meat, produce, and non-perishable items) to people in need. No identification or information will be required or collected. This event is open to anyone in need of food! Catholic Charities helps people of all faiths and beliefs. Mobile Food Pantries use a “drive-thru” method to distribute. Please clear space in your trunk or backseat so volunteers can load boxes of food directly into your vehicle. Mobile Food Pantries take place snow, rain, or shine!

A Mother's Heart, Women's Bible Study 4/25

Build wonderful friendships with beautiful women of God while journeying through the Bible with the Unlocking the Mystery of the Bible program
This Bible Study is held on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month at 7pm
For more information, please text Laura Reyes at 904-472-0385

Diocese of Joliet Jeremiah Day 4/27

This is a day for boys in grades 7-10 to grow closer to God and to visit Mundelein Seminary. The activities include a tour of Mundelein Seminary, talks about how God calls us, lunch, recreation time with open gym, and Mass. It is hosted and led by the Diocese of Joliet seminarians at Mundelein Seminary.
The day will take place from 10am to 5pm. Carpooling on a parish level is suggested. Parents, youth ministers, teachers, and parish priests are invited to attend as well.
Registration & permission forms can be found at this link.

PADS Board Items on display 4/27

The OLM PADS/Hesed House Board is now on display in the Atrium (Door B Entrance). The board contains a “wish-list” of items used to prepare meals for 250 guests at the Hesed House homeless shelter, on the first Tuesday of each month. Drop-off for all items are before all Masses on the weekend of May 4th and 5th. Monetary donations can be made via the OLM Online Giving Portal (please specify donation is for Hesed House), or make checks payable to Our Lady of Mercy Church, and write on the memo “Hesed House-PADS”. Thank you for supporting our mission of mercy.

Rachel's Vineyard Retreat 5/3 thru 5/5

If you are suffering from grief after having had an abortion, remember that God always offers forgiveness. Nothing is unforgivable and the Church is the hospital of healing. Just as the father ran to the prodigal son when he came home, so too is God waiting with open arms to receive you back home!
Rachel’s Vineyard weekend retreats offer a beautiful opportunity for healing to any woman or man who has struggled with the emotional or spiritual pain of an abortion.
For more information, and to register, please proceed here: https://www.diojoliet.org/w/rachel-s-vineyard-retreat

An Introduction to Catholic Social Teaching 5/8 and 5/15

“Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)
What. Through prayer, reflection, and discussion we will become familiar with the social teachings of the Catholic Church.
When. Part 1 on Wednesday 5/8 and Part 2 on 5/15 from 6:30pm – 8:30 pm
Where. Room 114 of the PLC
Who. Opened to anyone who is interested. Sponsored by the OLM St. Vincent de Paul Society and the OLM Peace and SocialJustice Ministry.
How. Please register by 4/28 by emailing Amy Milller at mt.al.miller@gmail.com

An Evening with Mother Mary 5/11

You and your family are invited to a special celebration in honor of our heavenly mother on Saturday 5/11th after the 4pm Mass, from 5:15pm to 6:45PM in the gym with supper.
Please RSVP at this link and connect with Justin Reyes reyeshj17@gmail.com for any questions.

St. Peregrine Prayer Service 5/21

For those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers, come to the St. Peregrine Prayer Service on Tuesday 4/16 following the 6:30pm Mass.
St. Peregrine is the patron saint of the sick, especially those suffering from cancer, serious illness, or chronic illness. The prayer service is for the intention of those with cancer, serious or chronic illnesses, and their caregivers to fortify them in their current situation.

Chicago Young Adult Eucharistic Revival Event 6/28

the Eucharistic Congress is happening this summer in July in Indianapolis, and to lead up to the Congress, Jesus is going on a Pilgrimage along 4 different routes, all headed towards Indianapolis. The exciting news is that CHICAGO is along the Marian Route of the Pilgrimage!!!!!! AND there is a special event on Friday, June 28^th specifically for young adults.
The event will include Mass at 6:30pm at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church (1429 W Wellington Ave), followed by a Eucharistic procession around the block and a social with food.

Knights of Columbus 2024 College Scholarship

Applications for the 2024 Robert H Weaver Knights of Columbus College Scholarship program are now being accepted through Saturday, June 14th. A total of $2,000 will be awarded to students graduating from High School in 2024 and attending a 2 or 4 year University program starting in the fall of 2024. Applications can be found by visiting the following link on the Parish Website. Awards will be made in July. Good luck to all applicants. Questions please reach out to Jeff LeRoy, Grand Knight jleroy53@hotmail.com

Have a Minister of Care Bring Holy Communion to Your Loved One that is Homebound

Ministers of Care are trained in the ministry and commissioned by the parish to visit those unable to come to Church to receive Holy Communion.
If you know someone in the parish who is unable to come to church and wishes to receive Holy Communion in the home, please contact Jolene at jolenel@olmercy.com and arrangements will be made.

Is God Calling You to the Priesthood?

Marriage is good and priesthood is good so how do you choose between two goods? Connect with Fr Michael at frmichael@olmercy.com and speak with him.

Bishop Hick’s Monthly Column

Bishop Hicks' monthly column for April is titled "Faith-Inspired Movies" Read his insightful column HERE.
- 75th Jubilee of the Diocese of Joliet. Our diocese was founded on December 11, 1948. For an entire year, we will highlight the accomplishments of our past & how we were founded in faith, while being called to witness now and in the future, and continue to be sent forth to serve. Hear from Bishop Hicks as he describes the events leading up to the year-long celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Diocese of Joliet; find out all the details, and see the year-long schedule HERE.

Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal 2024

If you have already pledged your support to the Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal (CMAA), we sincerely thank you! If we all join together, we can meet our parish’s goal of $140,500. Each and every gift, regardless of size, truly matters and makes a difference.
If you still plan on making your gift, please prayerfully reflect on how best you can support the CMAA this year to help those in need throughout our diocese, For the Glory of God. Pledge envelopes are still available in the church, or you can use the envelope you received in the mail from the diocese. Or donate online here.
Remember, if we raise more than our goal, the diocese will return 70 percent of the amount over goal to us to reinvest in our own parish. This is an incredible opportunity and blessing. Your generosity is so greatly appreciated. Thank you for sharing your blessings!

Scam Emails and Text Messages

From time to time, there are phishing (SCAM) emails going out to members of the parish and staff claiming to be Father Michael as well as text messages.
Please note that Father Michael and Father Frank DO NOT send texts or emails asking for money or gift cards. If you receive a message appearing to be from Father Michael or Father Frank, please discard it (any email that does not have "olmercy.com" is a fake email) and DO NOT SEND ANY ELECTRONIC MONETARY AID. No one on the staff will personally ask for money in whatever form (gift cards etc). If someone sends you a private message asking for a donation of sorts, it's undoubtedly a fake account. Please keep praying for us, and God bless you!

Did You Know We Have a Parish School?

All Saints Catholic Academy (ASCA) located at 1155 Aurora Ave, Naperville is our parish school!
Are you a parent with preschool, elementary, and middle school-aged children struggling with the antithetical Christian values the government schools are indoctrinating the children who attend government schools? You're not alone.
Join a growing number of OLM parents who have made the move by sending their child(ren) to public school to All Saints Catholic Academy.
Connect with Patty Bajek at (630) 961-6125, or pbajek@ascacademy.org to express your interest and schedule a personalized tour. Or peruse their website to explore your interest.

Totally Yours Pilgrimages

Experience pilgrimage with a newness at Totally Yours Pilgrimages hosts trips to Italy, Fatima, Medjugorje and more throughout the year. There pilgrimages offer the comforting presence of dedicated priests and the opportunity for daily Mass. Experience the serenity of sacred sites, knowing that every aspect of your journey, including flights, accommodations, and two daily meals, is expertly arranged for your convenience. If you're seeking a meaningful escape and a chance to deepen your faith, don't miss out on this unique opportunity. For more information contact 630-315-0533 or visit there website to begin your journey today.

Bulletin

Check out the weekly Bulletin located here.

For the Hispanic Community

Please proceed here for the OLM Hispanic Ministry's upcoming events and resources.
Continúe aquí para conocer los próximos eventos y recursos del Ministerio Hispano de OLM.
There will be Stations of the Cross in Spanish every 2nd Wednesday of the month after the 12pm Mass.
A partir de la próxima semana, habrá Estaciones de la Cruz en español cada segundo miércoles del mes después de la misa de las 12 pm.

A Note from the Intercessory Prayer Ministry

How can we pray for you today?
There are times when life is overwhelming when all we have is questions.The great thing about prayer is that it shifts our perspective toward the One who stands ready to listen. No matter what you’re facing, we’d love to pray with you. Submit your prayer requests at this link
Prayer Ministry takes place monthly at MAGNIFY and on the last weekend of the month Mass times. Prayer ministry is an opportunity for those in need of physical, emotional, or spiritual healing or with a specific intention. Come as an individual, as a couple, or as a family. Listen and receive the prayers while being open to the Holy Spirit's movement.

Have you Downloaded our MyParish App yet?

If you haven't done so, we encourage you to download the Our Lady of Mercy app, available to download for iPhone and Android smartphones. Or text APP to 88202 to download.

Stay connected with our parish throughout the week with instant notifications, an easy-to-access event calendar, and the ability to reply to or share messages. Enjoy a bunch of additional features like prayers, daily readings, reminders to silence your phone before Mass, & much more.

Donate Online Through OSV Giving

Whether you are a registered parishioner with us or visiting, we are set up to receive donations online through OSV Our Sunday Visitor.
Click here to for online giving.
You can also access this link through our myParish App "Giving" button. Don't have the myParish App yet? Text APP to 88202 to download! Receive this update, instant news, and get access to the parish calendar, daily readings, and Confession guide.

Grow Groups | We continue to launch Grow Groups, one group at a time.
Connect with zara@olmercy.com for any questions.

A MOTHER'S HEART GROW GROUP

Mission. A Mother's Heart is a group for Catholic mothers with children ages 0-11 who are seeking to journey with other like-minded women of faith. Following the example of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, we strive to imitate her "little way" of growing in holiness through the lenses of motherhood and family.

Website. Proceed here for details.

Meets. Each month for any of the following: book chats, podcast discussions, "Mom's Night Out", community service projects, fellowship, playgroups, prayer.

Connect. Reach out to Lydia Schmitt lydiadschmitt@gmail.com for any questions.

CONSUMING FIRE YOUNG ADULT GROW GROUP

Mission. This group exists to grow a community that inspires and forms the young adult generation to be saints.

Website. Proceed here for details.

Meets. Tuesdays @ 7pm and twice a month for social gatherings.

Connect. Reach out to our Core Team at cfyagg@gmail.com for any questions.

SALT AND LIGHT GROW GROUP
Mission. “Encounter/Grow/Witness” is the threefold dimension of the Christian life. Once we encounter Jesus, we are then called to grow daily as His disciples. Grow Groups are one way Our Lady of Mercy is responding to our missionary identity where we are called to help parishioners grow continually in discipleship.

Website. Proceed here for details.

Meets. Wednesdays 7pm to 8:30pm

Connect. For more information, connect with Geri Capulong at gericapulong@gmail.com or Bonnie Ramirez at bnnrmrz@gmail.com.

VINE & BRANCHES GROW GROUP

Mission. Vine & Branches is a group at Our Lady of Mercy that offers support and belonging to individuals of any age or faith who are divorced or separated on the way to divorce.

Website. Proceed here for details

Meets. Wednesdays @ 7pm with social gatherings.

Connect. The group leaders are looking forward to hearing from you, please don't hesitate to reach out to them.
Kim Harris kimharris73@yahoo.com
Mary LoGalbo logalbo.marycarol@gmail.com
Jim Marks jimm6351@yahoo.com

GROW YOUR FAITH

FREE ONLINE RESOURCES In this section, you will find free conferences, webinars, and studies that you can freely take part in that can grow your faith.

FORMED.ORG Diving into the beauty of the Faith has never been easier: at home, on the go, or from any internet-connected device. Discover thousands of books, audio talks, movies, documentaries, and studies... there is something for every member of the family to help them grow closer to Christ and His Church.

Visit http://signup.formed.org/
Enter our parish zip or name
Enter your name and email

or Download the FORMED App through these links: App Store or Google Play

EUCHARIST RESOURCES Check out our "Eucharist Resources" page to help us understand deeply the centrality of the Eucharist in our lives.

INTRODUCING THE ASCENSION APP A Catholic Bible and Catechism App

We consulted more than 1,000 Catholics on what would make the ideal Bible and Catechism app and collected their direct feedback for over a year. Download the App for free today on the App Store or the Google Play Store.Check it out HERE

AMEN - CATHOLIC MEDITATION APP From Augustine Institute comes this NEW AND FREE Catholic prayer app that inspires your daily conversation with God through faithful meditations and nourishing Scripture.Please enjoy this latest offering from the Augustine Institute.

HALLOW - A CATHOLIC PRAYER & MEDITATION APP Hallow is a Catholic prayer & meditation app that helps users deepen their relationship with God through contemplative prayer and strengthen one's mental health in the process. Easy-to-use, audio-guided sessions anywhere from 1 to 60 minutes long. Pray your own way with a personalized prayer plan pulling from 3,000+ sessions including the Lectio Divina on the Daily Gospel, Rosary, Examen, Night Prayer, Calm & Humility “Praylists” and much more. Hallow Light is free. Hallow Plus is $5 per month ($60 per year). Sign up for either one here.

WORD ON FIRE

Explore the goodness, truth, and beauty of the faith!

Did you know that you have complete access to Bishop Barron's Word on Fire ENGAGE video library! Check out this link to watch any of the videos whenever you want without ever having to login.

Not sure where to start? How about checking out the short 5 episode series on The Eucharist This fresh look at the Eucharist brings to light its reality as sacred meal, the sacrifice necessary for communion with God, and the real presence of Christ.

BLESSED IS SHE

Blessed is She is a sisterhood of women who want to grow in their relationship with Jesus through their Catholic faith. They create beautiful & accessible resources and experiences to deepen prayer and foster community, both online and in person.

THE CATHOLIC GENTLEMAN

Founded in 2013, The Catholic Gentleman has become one of the most recognizable online men’s apostolate. Each week hundreds of thousands of men around the world visit our site for the insightful articles and products designed to encourage a life of authentic manhood. Their mission: To inspire men to holiness

HEROIC MEN

Looking for authentically Catholic content for men? Look no further than HeroicMen.com—the all-new, 100% FREE Catholic streaming platform for men.
Learn about your faith from today's best Catholic speakers—and do it all from the convenience of home. Stream-on-demand from your phone or tablet for quality content on the go. Get it all at HeroicMen.com

AQUINAS 101 FREE COURSES

Have you wanted to get to know St. Thomas Aquinas and his writings more so as to grow closer to Jesus?

Sign up for any of the short and free courses at Aquinas 101 a project of the

Thomistic Institute seeks to promote understanding of the thought of St. Thomas Aquinas, the eminent 13th-century philosopher, and theologian.

Aquinas is a masterful interpreter of reality. His writings assist us in answering perennial questions on topics like God, man, the natural world, law, and morality, and questions of special relevance to our time like the relationship between modern science and faith or pursuing happiness in the digital era..

PINTS WITH AQUINAS PODCAST

Matt Fradd's Pints with Aquinas is an online Catholic community of faith and truth... and maybe a pint or two. The podcast has long-form discussions, debates and teachings on the Catholic faith. Checkout the podcast here.

PASTORAL CARE

If you have physical, mental, emotional or spiritual health concerns or questions about end-of-life issues, funeral planning, journeying through grief, caregiving for a loved one or are homebound, please contact the parish office at 630-851-3444 or parishoffice@olmercy.com

RESTORE

Do you find yourself struggling in overcoming your battle with pornography? Restore is a weekly (anonymous) meeting where men lean on each other for support and share ideas about strengthening our resolve to stay on God’s path of chastity. All men are welcome, whether you have been free of pornography addiction for many years or struggle with it every single day.

If you are ready to start breaking free and want to Restore your life, email us at Restore.olm@gmail.com to find out more information on when and where we meet or call 331-684-7415. Check out the website for FAQs and further details.

Be encouraged; check out this Testimony.

MOMS WALKING WITH MOMS IN NEED

Pregnant and parenting moms in need are in our parishes and our neighborhoods. As Pope Francis reminds us, our parishes need to be “islands of mercy in the midst of a sea of indifference.” Everyone in the parish community should know where to refer a pregnant woman in need. Connect with Lydia Schmitt for further questions at lydias@olmercy.com

FAITH BUDDIES

OLM invites you to learn more about a new program for children with special needs that will be launching in the spring!

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or enrolling your child, please get in touch with Lydia Schmitt at lydias@olmercy.com

CONFERENCES

JOLIET YOUTH DAY 6/1

June 1, 2024
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Lewis University
1 University Parkway, Romeoville, IL 60446
Cost: $75/person

Register to attend at this link

This exciting, first-of-its-kind youth event will be held at Lewis University on June 1, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. An unforgettable day conference dedicated to transforming the lives of 8th to 12th graders (current 7th to 12th graders) into passionate and joyful disciples, participants will:

Engage with national keynote speakers
Experience uplifting praise and worship
Deepen their faith through Eucharistic adoration
Find renewal in Reconciliation

2024 WORD ON FIRE CONFERENCE 8/2 - 8/4

Join over 1,000 Catholics at the 2024 Word on Fire Conference, Wonder: Nature and the Human Body!

This conference is for you if you love Word on Fire and want to become more confident in your conversations with friends, coworkers, or family members about some of the most pressing issues the Church faces today.

Get 12% OFF your tickets here. Your ticket includes access to four keynotes (including one by Bishop Barron), three breakout sessions, two dinners, and two Masses.

This year’s conference is in Bishop’s home diocese of Rochester, Minnesota! It will be at the Mayo Civic Center (which is also the event space of the world-renowned Mayo Clinic). This year’s theme is Nature and the Human Body. All humans are bodied creatures. The human body is at the core of today’s most controversial topics, including evolution, artificial intelligence, and gender ideology. It’s more important than ever to be confident when talking with friends and family about these topics.