Parish Bulletin

Summer is a time for vacation travel and there has been a lot of traveling to and from St. John Parish, but it is not for vacation.

Last weekend about 70 teens from St. Mary Parish, Hanover MA spent Saturday night here on their way back home from a hot and labor intensive week in Tennessee repairing homes in the Appalachian Service Project. They arrived about 6:30 pm and were greeted by many members of St. John Life Teen group who had prepared dinner for them. After Mass at 9 pm celebrated by their pastor, Fr. Chris Hickey and me, the students and their adult leaders settled down in the cafeteria and classrooms (fortunately the air conditioned ones) for a night’s rest before leaving for home at 8 am. They were scheduled for a 6 pm Life Teen Mass back home and a Welcome Home dinner.

This weekend about 30 members from St. John have traveled to Franciscan University for the Applied Biblical // Defending the Faith Conference. Paul Gallagher, St. John DRE,along with about six lay leaders from the parish RCIA program attended. Additionally, other parishioners and lay leaders from prison ministry and men’s group, to name a few, have traveled there too.

For those who are not traveling, don’t forget the picnic this coming Saturday, August 5!!!!!

MSGR. ART’S ADDRESS: If you would like to send a card or note to Msgr. Art, the address is: St. Rose of Lima Rectory, 3803 4^th Street, Baltimore, MD 21225.

UPDATE on MSGR. ART: Msgr. Art has asked us to share his ongoing appreciation for the thoughtful and plentiful cards and notes he has been receiving, and especially for the prayers, asking that all continue to prayer for him. While the search for the best possible match in a bone marrow donor continues, Fr. Art is receiving platelets and blood transfusions as needed, which at present is two to three times per week. He is regaining weight—ten pounds at last report—and occasional sightings in the parish office support that his strength is building daily.

The priests, deacons and staff of St. John have received many calls asking how to be tested as a potential bone marrow donor. In support of this desire to help, and of the valuable resource we have in bone marrow donors, St. John is assembling a program by which parishioners and friends of St. John Parish can become potential donors or sponsors supporting others in becoming possible donors. We are in the process of gathering the information, hoping to make this opportunity a reality during the 4^th week of August (dates to be announced). According to the information we are receiving, we will be able to offer the drive on St. John campus if we are able to enlist a minimum of 100 donors. Please prayerfully consider this powerful gift of life, and watch for further details in future bulletins.

Masses are 7:00 a.m. , 9:30 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Confessions will be heard from 8:45 – 9:15 a.m. and 6:15 to 6:45 p.m.

Following the 8:00 a.m. Mass and Rosary. Please pick up a folder with the prayers and come to the front pews. Everyone interested in the devotion is welcome to join in prayer.

The Ladies Sodality prays the Rosary on the 2^nd Sunday of each month after the 9:15 a.m. Mass, at the statue of the Blessed Mother in the church. Everyone is welcome to participate.

Immediately following the 8:00 a.m. Mass and Rosary in the church. All are invited to participate.

At 3:00 p.m. in the church before the Blessed Sacrament and ending with Benediction. All are welcome to attend.

PERPETUAL ADORATION UPDATE! The following hours have one scheduled adorer, but we would like to have at least two for each hour: Sundays – 2, 4, 6, & 8 a.m.; and 12,1,3,4,6,7 & 8 p.m.; Mondays – 1, 2 & 6 a.m.; 4 & 6 p.m.; Tuesdays – 3, 6, 8 & 11a.m.; and 4 & 5 p.m.; Wednesdays – 1, 2, 7 & 11 a.m.; and 12, 2 & 3 p.m.; Thursdays – 12, 1, 2,5, 6 & 9 a.m.; and 12,3,4 & 11 p.m.; Fridays – 2, 3, 5 & 9 a.m.; and 12,2,3,4,5 & 6 p.m. Saturday-1,3 & 6 a.m., 2,3,4,5,6 & 9 p.m. Please call the parish office.

BAPTISMS: Congratulations and welcome to Zachery Joseph Facchine, son of Mildred and Paul Facchine and Olivia Martin, daughter of Elena and Glenn Martin.

WE PRAY for the REPOSE of Richard Schrenker, Charles Arnold and Jay Gordon Hall, Sr. and for their families and friends.

FLOWERS on the ALTAR this WEEKEND were donated in loving memory of Dennis Notich by his loving parents.

This year’s budget is based on a weekly offering of $30,700.00. Our current weekly average is $27,560.36. Thank you.

THANK YOU to all parishioners who have made a pledge. Memorial opportunities are still available. Please call the parish office to make, renew or extend your pledge.

Next weekend there will be a special collection for the Catholic Communications Campaign annual collection. Thank you for your continued generosity.

SUMMER BENEFIT: Over past years, when Mass attendance decreases during summer months as families vacation and attend other churches, families have been asked to assist the parish in the payment of continuing utility bills through our annual Summer Benefit Collection. Your response is again requested. If you did not receive an envelope for this purpose in last week’s mailing, please pick up a Summer Benefit envelope at the doors of the church or in the parish office, or mail your contribution to St. John Church, attention “Summer Benefit.” Thank you for your generosity to your parish.

School Calendar

Check the St. John web page www.sjwest.org for details regarding the school calendar, supply list, class lists, etc. The supply lists can also be found in the local stores. The school office will be open from 9-3 on Wednesdays during the summer for purchasing necessary items. There will be NO packet pickup day in August. Be sure to fill out the pink emergency card and send it back to us ASAP. If you do not have one for each child, stop by the school office.

INNISBROOK ON-GOING FUNDRAISER: Check out the website for gift giving ideas. The school receives 50% of all sales. Shop at www.innisbrook.com. Our school ID is # 122169.

GROCERY CERTIFICATES PROGRAM: Please support the school by purchasing gift cards for Kohl’s, Boscov’s, and local grocery stores. There is no additional cost involved, but the school makes 5% on all sales. Cards are for sale in the school office only.

why catholic? There will be a meeting on August 7^th at 7:00 p.m. in The Portico for all those interested in being a small group facilitator for Why Catholic. This adult faith formation program will start at St. John in January, 2007. If you are interested call Paul Gallagher. Training will be provided.

Tickets are now on sale for Scott Hahn’s visit. Tickets are $20 per person & will be sold on a first come, first served basis at the Religious Ed Office in the Parish Center and at The Portico Bookstore during regular business hours. Tickets are limited--so purchase early, as last year was an immediate sell out. A box lunch can be purchased at the Portico. Check bulletins for more details.

New Opportunities: Beginning this fall, there will be four parish-wide Adult Faith Formation opportunities. Everyone, regardless of faith knowledge or prior participation, will be invited to participate. There will be sessions on various days and times, as the need allows. The present plan is to provide two 6-7 week Bible studies and two six week sessions of “Why Catholic?” throughout the year. If you feel like you need to grow in your faith and understanding of Sacred Scripture, please consider participating. More information will be in future bulletins.

Bible Study: Shortly after Dr. Scott Hahn’s visit to our parish on September 23^rd, we will begin a parish-wide, seven week Bible study using his “From Genesis to Jesus” study. Everyone in the parish is invited to join a group. More information will be found in future bulletins, with registrations taking place in September.

“Welcome Home” Committee Forming: Anyone interested in helping with our annual “Welcome Home” gathering on Thursday, December 28^th from 7:00-9:00 p.m., please email Paul Gallagher at pgallagher@sjwest.org. This gathering is held right after the Christmas Liturgies as a way to reach out to anyone who is no longer practicing their Catholic faith or is interested in becoming a Catholic.

RELIGIOUS ED REGISTRATION: If you have not yet registered your child for religious education classes--please contact the Religious Ed Office to assure a spot for the fall.

RELIGIOUS ED TEACHERS NEEDED: Anyone wishing to teach/assist with religious education classes for this coming year, please call the office for more details. We specifically need an older Eucharist teacher and a Spanish/English speaking RCIY teacher. Call the Religious Ed office for more details.

SPECIAL ED TEACHER NEEDED: Beginning in September, our Special Needs class that meets on Thursdays at 6:45 p.m., needs a special education teacher. Call the office if you can help.

— LIFE TEEN (Grades 9 -12) —

MATT MAHER VISIT: On Friday, August 11, Matt Maher, a nationally known musician, will be performing a concert here in The Portico. The cost will be $15 per person, with money collected at the door. This event is open to everyone in middle school or older. Call Kenn if you need additional information.

SUMMER BIBLE STUDY: Have you ever wanted to get a little more out of Sacred Scripture or the Mass? If you said yes, then this summer is your chance! We will be meeting at the Parish Center every Thursday from 7:00-8 p.m. We will be looking at the readings for that week’s Mass. It will not only give you a better look at your faith, but a better look at Christ himself.

STEUBENVILLE LOST & FOUND: We have several items that were left on the buses from Steubenville. If you are missing something, contact Kenn ASAP. All items not picked up will be disposed of on Sunday, August 7^th.

— THE EDGE (Grades 7 & 8) —

We meet every 2^ndSunday and 4^th Friday from 7:30 – 9:00 p.m. in the Cafeteria. This ministry is open to all 7^th & 8^th graders.

FYI: The EDGE and Youth Alive WILL meet all summer, so don’t miss these opportunities to get together with your friends. The EDGE welcomes everyone! The more friends you bring to The EDGE, the bigger and better we can make it!

Sun., Aug. 13 – H2Olympics – Come on down and beat the heat with this EDGE night. Bring your water guns and dress to get wet (old shorts and T-shirts please). This relay style competition is sure to knock your socks off!

We meet in the Cafeteria from 7-8:30 p.m. every 1^st and 3^rd Friday. Bring your friends and join the fun! Contact Kate for details.

Fri., Aug. 4 – H2Olympics – Prepare to get wet! This event is one that you don’t want to miss. Bring your water weapons and get ready to compete!

Fri., Aug. 25 – Popsicle Party – Join us for some new games, and maybe even some old ones with a Youth Alive twist.

ATTENTION 5^th and 6^th GRADERS: Please feel free to bring your friends to any Youth Alive nights. We welcome everyone!

Activities in Our Parish

HEALTH CARE MINISTRY: If anyone is in need of an electric wheelchair please call the Health Care Office at the Parish Center, ext. 220. Currently we have loaned out all of our wheelchairs. If anyone has one they wish to donate, we would appreciate it.

LANDFILL PERMITS: Carroll County residents receiving their Carroll County property tax bill also receive two landfill-use coupons. If you have no use for your coupons, your donations of those coupons to St. John Church would be greatly appreciated.

CHILDREN’S CHOIR: The St. John Children’s Choir, which leads the sung prayer at the Saturday 5:00 Liturgy on the 1^st and 3^rd Saturdays of each month, is seeking new members. Children going in to 5^th grade (and older) are welcome to join without an audition, and must be able to rehearse Monday nights in the church from 7-8 p.m. To join, or for details, call Jane Schmidt at 410-848-5365.

2007 CARNIVAL CHAIRPERSON NEEDED: Chairperson would be responsible for overseeing the various committees from each parish ministry, planning monthly meetings, budgeting and leading through the fellowship of the parish. Call Jenny Scott for more details at 410-239-6179.

STITCHIN’ NOOK BOOTH NEEDS VOLUNTEERS: If you are interested in doing any knitting or sewing during the next few months for the Christmas Bazaar, please call the Parish Center and leave your name and phone number. We will pay for the materials, or if you have any knitting or sewing materials you would like to donate, please call the Parish Center. Christmas items, stockings, scarves, crochet items, baby items and any item that would be attractive for sale at the booth would be appreciated.

Last Chance to play in the tournament sponsored by the Knights. at Francis Scott Key Golf Course, $80 fee covers green fees, cart, and lunch. Trophies and prizes to be awarded. Contact Brian Crowley at 410- 795-5147 or Rich Nestor at 410- 751-5258.

Tickets are $3.00 per person, in advance, and $5.00 the day of the picnic. Ticket includes: hot dog OR hamburger, drink, chips and a side dish. Needed: Many cake donations for the cake wheel and volunteers for 1 hr. shifts for various stands (call Betty Belk, 410-848-9391). Chili Cookoff: WE NEED CONTESTANTS!! Contact Craig Lyons for rules at 410-751-2945. Prizes awarded to the winner!

Fr. Jim Sorra, who was just recently ordained, will be the celebrant at a Mass of Thanksgiving on Sunday, August 6 at 6:00 p.m. We hope you will join him in celebrating this Mass at St. John.

Warning: You will get Wet and Have Fun!!! – Water guns, water balloons, sailboat races & watermelon eating contests and more! Join St. John’s Cub Scouts from 1-4 pm for an afternoon of fun. Contact Carey Scott at 410-239-6179 for details.

Mon-Fri. from 9- 12 p.m. Open to children who completed grades 3, 4 or 5. Each day includes a lesson, snack and rehearsal time. Limited spots available. To register please call Alexandra Guerriero @ 410-374-5534 or 443-244-0224. Cost is $15. This is for her Girl Scout Gold Award and is being held at St. John’s.

The Executive Committee will meet at 10 a.m. at Baugher’s. All officers and committee chairpersons are urged to attend. For details

Knights of Columbus Council 1393 is looking for vendors for this 2^nd annual event being held on St. John parking lot from 7:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (Vendors may begin setting up at 5:30 a.m.). Spaces (17’ by 20’) are $35 each or 2/$60. More space can be arranged if requested in advance. Spots are pre-paid and non-refundable. No rain date. For information or to reserve space, contact Michael Dvorak at mak@dvorak.net, or Frederick Dvorak at 410-876-1292. Proceeds benefit St. John Catholic Church organizations.

Since we are all tying to put the Gospel into action in our own lives, we need to remember the poor boxes every Sunday. The St. Vincent de Paul Society thanks you for your continued help.

What is religious life like? How do I know if I have a vocation? The Sisters of Bon Secours invite you to a discernment retreat. The weekend will include prayer and Mass, group discussions as well as one-on-one conferences with the Sisters, in addition to time for relaxing at their Provincial House in Marriottsville. This retreat is for single Catholic women interested in exploring religious life. To register call Sr. Pat Dowling, CBS or Elaine Shanks at 410-442-0267 or go to www.bonsecoursvocations.org.

Dare to Follow! Is a one-day summer vocation awareness program for male youth aged 15-17 to be held Tuesday, August 8, 2006 at St. John, Westminster. This event runs from 9-5, and there is no charge and (lunch & light snacks are included). Participants will engage in prayer, celebrate Mass, take part in discussions, play games, and enjoy the fellowship of priests and seminarians from the Archdiocese. For details contact the Vocation Office at 410-547-5426, Seminarian Chris Little or Fr. Leo at the Parish Office.

First African National Eucharistic Congress will be held on September 2-3 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. For information contact: Mary Ellen Davey at 202-541-3350 or Sr. Joanna Okereke, HHCJ at 202-541-3359.

A day of Prayer for Peace through Conversion - beginning at 10:30 with a talk & rosary, Mass at noon, 2:45 Holy Hour and Benediction; August 5 at 6 pm. Mass & spiritual conference on “Praying with the Heart” conducted by Fr. Stephen Valenta, OFM Conv., August 7-15 at 7:00 p.m. annual novena in honor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Mass on Sunday and Feast Day) conducted by the Franciscans of the Primitive Order. For information contact Carol Kortisses at 301-447-5318 or email spoonhou@msmary.edu.

DEADLINE FOR BULLETIN ANNOUNCEMENTS is 12:00 noon each Monday. All announcements and articles are requested in writing and can be sent via email to bulletin@sjwest.org or faxed to 410-857-1519.

SUNDAY NURSERY for 1-5 year olds will be held in Classroom 2A of the school during the 9:15 and 11:15 a.m. Masses. For information, contact Peggy Rager at 410-848-0790.

HOLY COMMUNION will be brought to you during Mass, if you are unable to come to the altar. Please inform an usher.

PORTICO BOOKS + GIFTS: AUGUST 5th SUPER SATURDAY SALE! All Scott Hahn Books on Sale (does not include textbooks), plus many other items at great prices! Come early, limited supplies available.

Monday, July 31- Jer 13:1-11; Dt 32:18-19, 20, 21; Mt 13:31-35

Saturday, Saturday, August 5 - Jer 26:11- 24; Ps 69; Mt 14:1-12

From the Administrator

Activities in Our Parish

2007 CARNIVAL CHAIRPERSON NEEDED: Chairperson would be responsible for overseeing the various committees from each parish ministry, planning monthly meetings, budgeting and leading through the fellowship of the parish. Call Jenny Scott for more details at 410-239-6179.