OUR LADY OF MERCY CATHOLIC CHURCH

ROMAN CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF JOLIET-IN-ILLINOIS Most Rev. R. Daniel Conlon, Bishop

701 S. EOLA ROAD † AURORA, IL 60504 WWW.OLMERCY.COM

PARISH PRIESTS

Fr. Don E. McLaughlin, Pastor Fr. Mark J. Bernhard, Parochial Vicar PASTORS EMERITUS Fr. Gerald Tivy Fr. Hugh Fullmer PERMANENT DEACONS Deacon Tim Kueper Deacon Tony Martini Deacon Mike Plese Deacon Phil Rehmer Deacon Art Tiongson Deacon Bob Vavra

PARISH OFFICE (630) 851-3444 (630) 851-3468 FAX Monday-Thursday……..8:30am-4:30pm Friday………………… 8:30am-1:00pm

MASS SCHEDULE Saturday………………………...4:00pm Sunday………………...7:30am, 9:00am 10:45am, 12:30pm, 5:30pm Monday-Friday ……………......8:00am Rosary prayed after all daily Masses

HOLY DAYS OF OBLIGATION Vigil for Holy Day……………..7:00pm Holy Day……………...8:00am, 7:00pm

CONFESSIONS Saturday……………….….3:00-3:45pm 1st Fridays of the Month….8:30-9:00am Or by Appointment

PRAYER CHAPEL Open Daily …...……....7:00am-8:00pm Adoration……..…Monday & Thursday 8:30am-6:00pm Benediction…….……Monday, 6:00pm

Page 2 From The Pastor’s Desk… Now Known as Chardonnay W(h)ines! As you know, election day is this Tuesday, November 6th. Voting is one of our most im-portant responsibilities as citizens and as Catho-lics. Often times I hear some Catholics say that the Church should keep out of politics. There couldn’t be anything further from the truth! When our nation’s founders sought to “separate

church and state” they did so to prohibit the establishment of any particular de-nomination as the official religious body of the nation – not forbidding religious organizations to address matters of grave importance to human welfare. Pope Francis in Evangelii Gaudium, No. 183 states: “An authentic faith always in-volves a deep desire to change the world, to transmit values, to leave this earth somehow better than we found it….if indeed the just ordering of society and of the state is a central responsibility of politics, the Church, cannot and must not remain on the sidelines in the fight for justice.” Also, it must be made very clear that the Church does not tell us whom to vote for. The Church does not (and cannot) endorse any particular candidate or political party. The Church can however, (and must) speak to the issues facing voters, and provide voters with information on candidate’s positions. The Church also exhorts Catholics to study Scripture and Church teaching to gain and understanding why the Church takes a particular stance on an issue. This is something that I suspect many of us don’t take the time and effort to do. But our faith teaches us that “conscience is the voice of God resounding in the human heart, revealing the truth to us and calling us to do what is good while shunning what is evil.” (U.S. Bishops 2015 document on forming conscience and faithful citizenship). It is our responsibil-ity as Catholics to form our consciences by developing the virtue of prudence to discern true good in circumstances and to choose the right means of achieving it by maintaining a willingness and openness to seek what is right. There are four key principles to keep in mind: 1) Promoting and defending the dignity of the human person; 2) Supporting the family and subsidiarity in local, state and na-tional institutions; 3) Working for the common good where human rights are protected and basic responsibilities are met; 4) Acting in solidarity with concern for all as our brothers and sisters, especially the poor and most vulnerable. There are many moral issues facing us today, but the most important is the direct and intentional destruction of innocent human life from the moment of conception until natural death, and must always be opposed. At the same time, issues such as war, the death penalty, racism and care for the poor and the immi-grant are enormously important – they are not optional concerns which can be dismissed. The moral teaching of our Church is about more than prohibitions. We Catholics are encouraged to respond to the basic needs of human beings – food, shelter, health care, education and employment. We are called to welcome refugees and immigrants, defend religious freedom, support marriage and family and protect the environment. In today’s political environment, voting as a Catholic is hard word. It takes serious reflection, knowledge of Church teaching, awareness of who the candi-dates are and where they stand on the issues. But most of all it takes prayer! Then get out and vote! Have a Blessed Week!

PARISH PRIESTS

Fr. Don McLaughlin, Pastor 630-851-3444, Ext. 228 frdon@olmercy.com

Fr. Mark Bernhard, Parochial Vicar 630-851-3444, Ext. 226 frmark@olmercy.com PASTORAL STAFF

Frank Sauter, Liturgy & Music 331-707-5379 franks@olmercy.com

Jolene LeRoy, RN, Pastoral Care 331-707-5380 jolenel@olmercy.com

Zara Tan, Evangelization & Communications 331-707-5381 zara@olmercy.com

Dcn Tim Kueper tkueper5@yahoo.com Dcn Tony Martini tonym@olmercy.com Dcn Mike Plese deaconmikeplese@gmail.com Dcn Phil Rehmer deaconphil@rehmer.com Dcn Art Tiongson hope2640@yahoo.com Dcn Bob Vavra rjv@att.net RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Mary Jo Trapani, DRE (K-5) 331-707-5378 maryjot@olmercy.com

Candy Rice, Middle School Youth Ministry 331-707-5376 candyr@olmercy.com

Dave Miserendino, HS & Young Adult 331-707-5371 davem@olmercy.com

Cheryl Lohse, RE Secretary (K-5) & RCIC 331-707-5369 cheryll@olmercy.com

Jean Rehmer, RE Secretary (6-12) & RCIA 331-707-5375 jeanr@olmercy.com ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Bob Gancarz, Business Manager 331-707-5370 robertg@olmercy.com

Diane Reiter, Secretary/Receptionist 630-851-3444 dianer@olmercy.com

Lydia Schmitt, Business Office Assistant 630-707-5377 lydias@olmercy.com

Len Eickhoff, Buildings & Grounds 630-631-1676 lene@olmercy.com SEMINARIAN INTERNS

Senovio Sarabia, Jr. ssarabia@usml.edu

Luis Miguel Garcia lgarciadiaz@usml.edu

Page 3

Monday, November 5 8:00 AM † Francisa Pacana Susana Salvador Tuesday, November 6 8:00 AM † Eloisa De Los Santos Tom & Letty Nolan Wednesday, November 7 8:00 AM † Matildi Galimba Family Thursday, November 8 8:00 AM † Jim Plichta Mary Houdek Friday, November 9 8:00 AM † Mary Ellen Feldman Family

Saturday, November 10 4:00 PM † Mary Reiter Tom & Letty Nolan 4:00 PM † Joey Burton Marose & Burton Families Sunday, November 11 7:30 AM † Mary Ellen Feldman Family 7:30 AM † Jim Hartnett Cheryl Hartnett 9:00 AM † Tim Savoie Family 10:45 AM † Alfonso Ramirez Bonnie Ramirez 12:30 PM † Purificacion Oconer Uy Family 5:30 PM † Ray Keller Mike & Mary Trendle

8:00 AM Int Scott & Colleen Ernsting Family

BLESSED SACRAMENT CHAPEL LAMPS Votive lamps will burn this week before the Blessed Sacrament for the following intentions:

If you wish to have a candle burning for your intention in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, you will find envelopes on the shelf in the Narthex near the Priest’s Sacristy or in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel.

1. Megan Gabaldon 9. The Feldman Family 2. The Sick 10. Amanda H 3. Ailani Banulos 11. Special Intention-C.H. 4. Mel Schmudde 12. Autumn Schmitt 5. Craig Keeton 13. Good Health for Ricky 6. Deacon Bob Vavra 14. Patrick 7. Mike & Carole Brogan 15. The Pluskota Family 8. Saftey, Health, Thanksgiving 16. Ben Orig

Rose Mary Carson Mark Hoeksema Genevieve Donnelly Meredith Mangold Regina Trasga Florence Hybiak William Sanders Julia Schremp Betty Bertrand Donna Romadka Billy Walowski Jill Donlan Nancy Bejger Karen Orlandi Brett Orlandi Douglas Massoth Flo Paprzycki Cabel Herburn Angelica Jacobs

Mary Moody David Groeber Sr. Diane Picciuolo Margaret Picciuolo Gloria Leon Dolores Simonek Mel Schmudde Louise Easton Patricia Kline Francisco Gonzales Kathy Walowski MaryEllen Marren Lee Marks A. Schuman Concepcion Carrera Louise Walski Paul Atwood Graciela Rodriguez Charlie Mayton

Kristie Sharon Karla Lewis-Allaire Joseph Allaire Anita Trepelas Paula Leistikow Jake Sokol Logan Becvar Ailani Banulos Hector Martinez Thomas Sterling Patricia Norgard Hannah Baltimore Rosie Pagones Lou Skonieczny James Pluskota Joel Rivera Joseph Murphy Sherry White Estela Lozano

Kathryn Martini Jenny Sirois Amy Schaff Fray Tomas C. Bonilla Brady Pembroke Jesus Vasquez Ed Dombrowski Peggy Vieira Rosalie Kruse Michael Butler Delmar Kocher Willard Morse Mary Reich Marilyn Reich Bob Holzworth Midge Holzworth Krystina Salzig Carole Brogan Wayne Draper

Lydia & Baby Schmitt Bill Morse Ryan Collins Estela Ramirez Frank Gonzalez Jenell Pluskota Joyce Ziegler Peter Krug Christine Haight William Durante Corina Sergus Charles P Gerage Nicolette Butler Craig Keeton

We remember in prayer those in service to our country

SSG Leah Harvey, USAF

Airman Melanie Hodges, US Navy Nicholaus Laurie, US Marines

SSG Sean Murphy, USMC Capt. Tara Trammell, US Army

Roberto Ramos, Army Lt. Joshua Puscas, US Navy Capt. Keith Harris, USAF SSG Gina Maro, USAF

Juan Gabriel Sindac, USAF Aaron Godinez, US Marines

Mason Webber, Army LC/Cprl Ryan Ludwig, US Marines

We pray for our sick, confined and their families Please contact the Parish Office if you or your immediate family member wish to be added to the Sick List.

Mass Intentions

Page 4 Información en Español Desde el escritorio del Pastor... Ahora conocido como Chardonnay W(h)ines! Como saben, el día de las elecciones es este martes 6 de noviembre. Votar es una de nuestras respon-sabilidades más importantes como ciudadanos y como Católicos. Muchas veces escucho a algunos Católicos decir que la Iglesia debe mantenerse fuera de la política. ¡No podría haber nada más lejos de la verdad! Cuando los fundadores de nues-

tra nación trataron de "separar la iglesia y el estado", lo hicieron para prohibir el es-tablecimiento de cualquier denominación particular como el cuerpo religioso oficial de la nación, y no prohibieron a las organizaciones religiosas abordar asuntos de gran importancia para el bienestar humano. El Papa Francisco en Evangelii Gau-dium, No. 183 dice: "Una fe auténtica siempre implica un profundo deseo de cam-biar el mundo, transmitir valores, dejar esta tierra de alguna manera mejor de lo que la encontramos... si de hecho el orden justo de la sociedad y del estado es una res-ponsabilidad central de la política, la Iglesia no puede y no debe permanecer al mar-gen en la lucha por la justicia”. Además, debe quedar muy claro que la Iglesia no nos dice por quién votar. La Iglesia no (y no puede) respalda a ningún candidato o parti-do político en particular. Sin embargo, la Iglesia puede (y debe) hablar sobre los problemas que enfrentan los votantes y proporcionarles información sobre las posi-ciones de los candidatos. La Iglesia también exhorta a los Católicos a estudiar la Escritura y la enseñanza de la Iglesia para obtener y comprender por qué la Iglesia toma una posición particular sobre un tema. Esto es algo que sospecho que muchos de nosotros no nos tomamos el tiempo y el esfuerzo para hacerlo. Pero nuestra fe nos enseña que "la conciencia es la voz de Dios que resuena en el corazón humano, reve-lándonos la verdad y llamándonos a hacer lo que es bueno a la vez que rechazamos lo que es malo" (documento de los Obispos de EE. UU. 2015 sobre la formación de conciencia y la ciudadanía fiel). Es nuestra responsabilidad como Católicos formar nuestras conciencias desarrollando la virtud de la prudencia para discernir el verda-dero bien en las circunstancias y elegir los medios correctos para lograrlo mantenien-do una disposición y apertura para buscar lo que es correcto. Hay cuatro principios claves a tener en cuenta: 1) Promover y defender la dignidad de la persona humana; 2) Apoyar a la familia y subsidiariedad en instituciones locales, estatales y naciona-les; 3) Trabajar por el bien común donde se protegen los derechos humanos y se cumplen las responsabilidades básicas; 4) Actuar en solidaridad con la preocupación de todos como nuestros hermanos y hermanas, especialmente los pobres y los más vulnerables. Hoy nos enfrentamos a muchos problemas morales, pero el más importante es la destrucción directa e intencional de la vida humana inocente desde el momento de la concepción hasta la muerte natural, y siempre hay que oponerse. Al mismo tiempo, asuntos como la guerra, la pena de muerte, el racismo y la atención a los pobres e inmigrantes son enormemente importantes; no son preocupaciones opcionales que pueden descartarse. La enseñanza moral de nuestra Iglesia es más que prohibiciones. Nosotros los Católicos estamos alentados a responder a las necesidades básicas de los seres humanos: comida, vivienda, atención médica, educación y empleo. Estamos llamados a dar la bienvenida a los refugiados e inmigrantes, defender la libertad reli-giosa, apoyar el matrimonio y la familia y proteger el medio ambiente. En el ambiente político de hoy, votar como un Católico es una palabra difícil. Se necesita una reflexión seria, el conocimiento de la enseñanza de la Iglesia, el conoci-miento de quiénes son los candidatos y cuál es su posición en los problemas. Pero sobre todo se necesita la oración! ¡Entonces sal afuera y vota! ¡Que tengan una Semana Bendecida!

Por favor traigan y dejen las fotos de las personas amadas que hayan fallecído y coloquelas en la bolsa de ‘ziplock,’ asi podremos poner-las en el Altar de Muertos desde el 31 de Oct hasta el 2 de Nov. Incluya su nombre e información de contacto (en la bolsa y la foto) para poder devolverlas depués del 3 de Nov. Dejar las fotos en la canasta ubicada en el escritorio de la recepción del pasadiso.

Altar del Dia de Muertos Acompañenos a rezar y recordar a nues-

tros seres queridos que han fallecido.

LECTURAS DE LA SEMANA Lunes: Fil 2:1-4; Sal 131 (130): 1bcde-3; Lc 14:12-14 Martes: Fil 2:5-11; Sal 22 (21):26b- 30ab, 30e, 31-32; Lc 14:15-24 Miércoles: Fil 2:12-18; Sal 27 (26):1, 4, 13-14; Lc 14:25-33 Jueves: Fil 3:3-8a; Sal 105 (104):2- 7; Lc 15:1-10 Viernes: Ez 47:1-2, 8-9, 12; Sal 46 (45):2-3, 5-6, 8-9; 1 Cor 3:9c-11, 16-17; Jn 2:13-22 Sábado: Fil 4:10-19; Sal 112 (111): 1b-2, 5-6, 8a, 9; Lc 16:9-15 Domingo: 1 Re 17:10-16; Sal 146 (145):7-10; Heb 9:24-28; Mc 12:38-44 [41-44]

Liturgy Page 5

TREASURES FROM OUR TRADITION Just two years ago, we engaged in one of the core activities of our democratic system: a presidential election. Actually, the institution of election can be traced to traditions in the Church, and although bish-ops are no longer chosen in this way, abbots and ab-besses (heads of monastic communities) have almost always been elected by full voting members of their communities. The lifetime appointment begins when the monks or nuns are gathered in “chapter” at the death or resignation of the abbot, and fortunately for all involved, campaigning is not allowed! The mem-bers of the community discern, with prayer to the Ho-ly Spirit, who among them is the best suited for lead-ership. Once chosen, the new leader requests the blessing of the local bishop, who usually presides at a ceremony of consecration or investiture. The ballots are always secret, and a simple majority must be achieved. In our American system the Electoral College is the determining voice in the presidential election, not the popular election on a November Tuesday, just as the monastic chapter is the electorate. Today, most religious orders elect general superiors in “chapter” by delegates of the professed members, and usually for a term of six years. A few, like the Jesuits, elect for life. At least we don’t have that weight on our shoulders when we choose a president. Four years at a time will do! —Rev. James Field, Copyright © J. S. Paluch Co.

Bulletin Sick List

As of November 11th the bulletin Sick List will be updated and names will be removed. If you are seriously ill and

wish to remain on the list, please con-tact Diane in the Parish Office at

dianer@olmercy.com or 630-851-3444.

Thank you!

If you would like to Minister the Lord at Mass in the role of distributing communion or reading the Word of God, there will be training in the fall. Please contact Diane Reiter at 630-851-3444 or dianer@olmercy.com to be notified when training is scheduled.

Eucharistic Minister And Lector Training

GOD’S LAWS God’s laws are not intended to burden or torment us. Instead they are guideposts that point us in the direction of good living. Accordingly, good living requires loving God and loving one another. We should not follow God’s laws out of fear of what might happen if we don’t, but rather view them as a foundation for building relationships and trust with one another and with God. The Shema prayer of Orthodox Jews is based on the reading from Deuteronomy today, “Hear, O Israel.” Every morning people recite the prayer as a profession of their love for God and pledge their obedience to God throughout the day. They pass on their love of God to their children, from one generation to the next. Copyright © J. S. Paluch Co., Inc.

READINGS FOR THE WEEK Monday: Phil 2:1-4; Ps 131:1bcde-3; Lk 14:12-14 Tuesday: Phil 2:5-11; Ps 22:26b-30ab, 30e, 31-32; Lk 14:15-24 Wednesday: Phil 2:12-18; Ps 27:1, 4, 13-14; Lk 14:25- 33 Thursday: Phil 3:3-8a; Ps 105:2-7; Lk 15:1-10 Friday: Ez 47:1-2, 8-9, 12; Ps 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9; 1 Cor 3:9c-11, 16-17; Jn 2:13-22 Saturday: Phil 4:10-19; Ps 112:1b-2, 5-6, 8a, 9; Lk 16:9-15 Sunday: 1 Kgs 17:10-16; Ps 146:7-10; Heb 9:24- 28; Mk 12:38-44 [41-44]

TODAY’S READINGS First Reading — The LORD, the God of your fathers, will give you a land flowing with milk and honey (Deuteronomy 6:2-6).

Psalm — I love you, Lord, my strength (Psalm 18).

Second Reading — Jesus is always able to save those who approach God through him (Hebrews 7:23-28).

Gospel — To love God with all your heart and to love your neighbor as yourself is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices (Mark 12:28b-34).

Page 6

EDGE (Grades 6-8)

EDGE NIGHTS Nov. 12 6th-ESTER & RUTH 7/8th-APOSTLES Nov. 19 6/7/8th Grades WONDER-MOVIE & Discussion Nov. 26 6/7/8th Grades WONDER-MOVIE & Discussion

EDGE PLUS NIGHTS Nov. 15 SPIRITUAL THANKSGIVING Eileen Maggiore, Presenter Nov. 29 SERVICE LAP BLANKETS FOR NURSING HOME Dec. 1 SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGING @ JEWEL (Permission slips needed) Dec. 2 DELIVERY OF LAP BLANKETS TO ALDEN’S WATERFORD NURSING HOME And CHRISTMAS CAROLING (Permission slips needed)

Spiritual Thanksgiving Please join us for an evening with Eileen Maggiore, on Thursday, Nov.15th as we reflect on how this Thanksgiving can be Our Bodies in Prayer! Heart, Feet & Hands working together with our will! Our teens will be a part of an evening of Scripture & Praise. A donation of a canned food item would be appreciated & donated to the food pantry. The evening will run 6:30/7:30 PM.

SENIOR HIGH YOUTH MINISTRY NEWS (Grades 9-12) Teen Alpha Nights continue Sunday, Nov. 4th @ 6:30pm

Chili Bowl Flag Football Tournament is Nov. 11th from 1-4pm. Teens Invited! Get details in the PLC lob-by or one the LIGHT formation webpage.

L.I.G.H.T. Mini-Courses for the Fall Quarter will begin Sunday, November 11th. Please check your schedule or contact the Youth Ministry office with any questions.

Teen Youth Group: “Friendsgiving” Dinner will be held on Thursday, November 15th form 7:00-8:30 PM in the youth center. All welcome to attend this awesome potluck dinner. Please contact the youth ministry office for details.

Holiday Pies will be ready for pick-up (for those who ordered them) on Saturday, November 17th between 11:00Am and Noob in the PLC.

Poinsettia Sale will be happening on November 17-18 after all masses in the lobby. Place your holiday flower order from one of our mission trip teens. Plants will be delivered on Sat. Dec. 8th.

Peer Ministry Team—Teens on the PMT will meet on Sunday, November 18th from 10:30-11:30 AM in the youth center-room 211.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATON (Grades K-5) Weekend Featured Saint~ St. Martin de Porres

St. Martin was the son of a Spanish nobleman and freed black slave. At the age of 12, Martin apprenticed to be a barber. At that time barbers did more than cut hair. They were the medical professionals of the day, and Martin learned to care for wounds and fractures. He also learned to pre-scribe medicine, an education he began with his mother, who was well known as a practitioner of herbal medications. When Mar-tin was 24, he made profession (commitment) as a Dominican lay brother.

Martins gifts were many. His greatest spiritual gift was that “he clung to God in his soul.” His clinging to God enabled him to serve others with a generous and loving spirit. Martin’s concern extended to the sick and the needy of the city of Lima. He estab-lished an orphanage and founding a hospital. He cared for the slaves that had been brought from Africa to Peru.

As we look at the life of St. Martin de Porres, we remember his choice to become a friend of the poor, his humble heart, his gifts of healing, his care and concern, and his friendship with all. We remember St. Martin for his great heart and his great love.

Patron Saint of Race Relations, Social Justice and Forgiveness.

Pastoral Care Page 7

Caring for the Mind, Body and Spirit

Mental and Emotional Health & Wellness Ministry If you are interested in being a part of the Mental and Emotional Health & Well-ness Ministry at our parish, please come to a meeting on Wednesday, November 7 at 7:00pm in Room 114 in the Parish Life Center. We will have a discussion about how our faith community responds to mental health needs, supports those with mental health con-cerns and educates the community to decrease the stigma of mental health challenges. Coping with Grief at Thanksgiving How does a person get through the Thanksgiving Day holiday when they are grieving the loss of a loved one? How does a person have feelings of gratitude when they are missing their loved one? If you would like support and help to cope with grief during this time, please join others for suggestions on how to cope with grief at Thanksgiving, prayers and resources on Sunday, November 18 from 2:00 to 3:30 pm in the Min-istry Room at church. There is no registration for the gathering. If you have any questions, please contact Jolene LeRoy RN Director of Pastoral Care at 331-707-5380.

Save the Date The annual Ladies’ Advent Tea is on the First Sunday of Advent, December 2 from 2:00 to 4:30pm. Please mark your calendar to attend. Invite others to come with you to begin the Advent season and prepare your hearts for the coming of Jesus at Christmas! Be inspired by the presentation and enjoy fellowship and refreshments!! More details to follow.

The Knights of Columbus Robert H. Weaver Council #12005 will be sponsoring a blood drive on Saturday, November 17, from 8:00 a.m. to 12 noon. in the PLC, Room 114. You can sign up online at www.heartlandbc.org or by calling Chris at 630-851-0907. Walk-ins are also wel-come. If you are unable to donate on that date, you can go to any Heartland Blood Center and give the Knights council number 12005. Please consider donating because the need for blood is great.

Join the Adult Choir for Christmas!!! For those of you grade 9 and above, who don’t want to make a year round commitment but love to sing, this a great opportunity for you. Join us beginning Wednesday, November 7th from 7:30 to 9:00 pm and sing with us at the Christmas Midnight Mass. This is a great way to meet fellow parishioners and sing beautiful Christmas music. Please contact franks@olmercy.com for additional information.

Page 8 Around the Parish

NEXT HESED HOUSE EVENT SCHED-ULED FOR TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 6... Please consider donating a food item(s) or volunteering your time to serve a meal at Hesed House, a homeless shelter located in Aurora, which provides men, women and children with shelter, food and uncon-ditional hospitality. The O.L.M. program for Hesed House pro-vides the food/supplies and VOLUNTEER WORKERS to serve a meal and provide hospitality on the first Tuesday of each month. Each evening anywhere from 100-150 'guests' are appreciative of the meal and companionship provided through this ministry. Donations of food and/or vol-unteer time are solicited on a monthly ba-sis. For more information or to volunteer your time or food/supplies items please contact Len or Linda Eickhoff at 630-904-0906 or Deacon Phil Rehmer at 630-851-3444, extension 232. Thank you!

TheAngelGiftGivingProgramneedsyoursupport.Thisprogramissupportingourparishionersthatareinneedofassis-tanceoverThanksgivingandChristmas.Weaskyoutoprayerfullycon-siderhelpingourbrothersandsisters.Wewillgladlyacceptanymone-tarydonation.Wethenconvertthemoneyintogiftcardsforstoresthatareconvenientforthefamilies.ThisyearwewillhaveaGivingTreeinthenarthexwithtagsonitindicatingthevariousdenominationsthatareneeded.Wehavedifferentallotmentsforvarioussizefamiliesfordinners.Christmasgiftsareallottedat$25aperson.YoucandonatebyusingonetheAngelGivingEnvelopeslocatedundertheGivingTreeintheNarthexandplacingitinthecollectionbasketatMass.DonationscanalsobebroughtintotheParishOf iceormailed.Ifyouhaveanyquestionsabouttheprogram,pleasecontactBethat630-303-6668.

HOLIDAY ANGEL

PROGRAM If you are in need of assistance to celebrate Thanksgiving and or Christmas this year, please contact the office during regular business hours to complete a form or to have one mailed to you. All forms must be returned to the office by Thursday, November 8th.

Financial Information Page 9

Fiscal Year-to-Date Information (as of 10/21/18)

Please remember Our Lady of Mercy Parish in your will and estate planning.

Thank you for your generosity!!

Actual Year-to-Date Collections: $ 517,490

Fiscal Year-to-Date Budget: $ 527,000

Amount Short of Budget: $ (9,510)

10/21/18 Sunday Collection: $ 28,356

Weekly Sunday Goal: $ 31,000

Amount Above Goal: $ (2,644)

Parish Sacrificial Giving

2018 Catholic Ministries Annual Appeal Pledge Report

It is very important that these pledges be paid so that our parish will reach our goal. Once we have reached our goal in paid pledges, 70% of the addi-tional funds received will be returned to the parish for our use. Parish Goal

Amount Pledged

Amount Paid

Remaining Balance

Rebate Amount

# of Families Pledged

122,500

160,615

140,969

19,646

12,928

619

$

$

$

$

$

GEMS Stock the fridge and pantry: Lean meats, fish, beans and nuts. Fresh or frozen produce in a rainbow of colors, dairy products such as plain yogurt, skim milk and low-fat cottage cheese. Whole grains such as quinoa, oats, brown rice, 100% whole wheat or wheat grain bread.

WE'VE BEEN MISSING OUR 50 AND OVER PARISHONERS...PLEASE CON-SIDER JOINING US... Our next GEMS luncheon meeting will be on November 14 at noon in the Parish Life Center. This month will have an Thanksgiving theme with the lunch menu of Turkey and all the fixings catered by Reuland's of Aurora. We are asking for $15 to cover this special meal whether a GEMS member or a guest. Donations of tasty desserts are always welcomed. How about wearing some "red-white-blue" garb in celebra-tion of veterans day! Our special guest speaker will be presenting subject matter of keen interest to all community members and especially seniors. Please consider bringing one non perishable food item to our next meeting in support of the Food Bank benefiting needy folks in our area. If you haven't already paid your 2019 dues, they can be paid at this meeting. Are you interested in the OLM Bridge club, contact Willie at 630-898-1999 for more information. The OLM card group is seeking new participants, email Ann at ANNC1001@aol.com for more information. Critics Corner movie club...contact Pat at 630-585-6437 for information. If you aren't receiving reminder email messages about our monthly meetings or if you have any questions,, please con-tact Phyllis Anderson at phyllisanderson5027@yahoo. Please pray for our sick GEMS members.

Page 10 Catholic Schools

Parish Activities for the Week

Our Lady of Mercy Weekend Masses

November 10 & 11 Fr. Don to preach at all Masses

Saturday: 4:00p Fr Mark Bernhard/Dcn Phil Rehmer

Sunday: 7:30a Fr Don McLaughlin/Dcn Mike Plese

9:00a Fr Mark Bernhard/Dcn Art Tiongson

10:45a Fr Mark Bernhard/Dcn Tony Martinez

12:30p Fr Don McLaughlin/Dcn Tim Kueper

5:30p Fr Don McLaughlin/Dcn Phil Rehmer

SUNDAY November 4 9:00 & 10:00a Nursery Rm 108 2:00-3:30p Extraordinary Minister Trng Church 4:00-5:30p Simbang Gabi Dance Practice MPR 6:00-9:00p CRHP Rm 114 6:30-8:30p Teen Alpha MPR 6:30-8:30p Young Adult Fellowship Rm 217 7:00-8:30p Simbang Gabi Choir Practice Church MONDAY November 5 8:30-6:00p Eucharistic Adoration Chapel 6:00-6:30p Benediction Church TUESDAY November 6 8:30-9:00a Coffee And… Ministry Rm 9:30-11:30a Pastoral Leadership Team Rm 110 1:00-3:00p OLM Card Group Rm 110 1:00-3:00p OLM Bridge Group Rm 108 7:00-8:00p Light Facilitator Wine & Cheese Rm 217 7:00-8:30p New Lector Trng Church 7:00-9:00p Adult Alpha MPR WEDNESDAY November 7 8:30-11:00a Woman in Faith Rm 203/208 4:30-5:45p RE Class PLC 6:30-7:45p RE Class PLC 7:00-8:30p Mental/Emotional Health Ministry Rm 114 THURSDAY November 8 8:30-4:30p Eucharistic Adoration Chapel

7:00-8:30p RCIA Rm 217 7:00-8:00p 1st Reconciliation Parent Mtg Church 7:00-9:00p Adult Alpha Rm 208 7:30-9:00p Knights of Columbus Business Mtg Rm 114 FRIDAY November 9 No Activities SATURDAY November 10

2:00-3:00p Wedding Church 3:00-4:00p Respect Life Mtg Rm 110 3:00-3:50p Reconciliation Narthex 5:00-7:00p GenZ for Life Rm 110

SUNDAY November 11

8:00-10:30a Summoned Men of Faith Rm 124 9:00 & 10:45a Nursery Rm 108 9:00-1:15p Light Class PLC 1:00-4:00p Chili Bowl Flag Football Grounds/Rm 114 2:00-3:00p Baptism Church 5:30-6:30p Simbang Gabi Dance Practice MPR

7:00-8:00a Fit Shepherds Parish Grounds

5:00-6:00p Wedding Rehearsal Church

7:15-10:30p Charismatic Healing Mass Church/MPR

7:30-10:30a CRHP Men’s Formation Rm 114

6:30-8:30p Teen Alpha MPR 6:45-8:15p Light Class PLC 7:00-8:30p Simbang Gabi Choir Practice Church

Kindergarten Open House at Saints Peter and Paul!

You are invited to attend an Open House at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School. We have scheduled two dates for this one hour program; Thursday, November 8th at 6:30pm and Friday, November 16th at 9:30am. Attendees will meet administrators, teachers, and current parents. Prior to a tour, you will hear from our kindergarten teachers and current parents. Please plan to come to our informative presentation to learn about the many advantages of a Saints Peter and Paul Catholic School education. Kindly RSVP to Meg Olsen, Director of Marketing and Enrollment, at mol-sen@sspeterandpaulschool.com

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SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION: Saturday 3:00-3:45pm; Reconciliation services held seasonally. SICK AND HOMEBOUND Contact the Parish Office so we may help you in any way possible.

HOSPITALIZATION: If you anticipate a hospitaliza-tion or are admitted to an area hospital and would like a visit from a priest or Eucharistic Minister, please no-tify the parish office.

BAPTISMS: Registered parishioners wishing their child baptized must attend a parent meeting held the 3rd Wednesday of each month. Baptisms are held at 12 noon the first Saturday of the month and at 2:00 p.m. the second Sundays of the month. Baptisms are not celebrated during Lent.

WEDDINGS: The bride, groom or either set of par-ents must be registered members of the parish for at least six months prior to scheduling a wedding. Wed-dings may be scheduled no less than six months out in order to fulfill the diocesan marriage preparation re-quirements. Contact Diane Reiter, ext. 221.

NEW PARISHIONERS: We welcome you! Please register by attending our “New Parishioner Registra-tion/Welcoming” meeting the last Sunday of the month at 11:00 a.m. For more info call: 851-3444, ext. 221.

HOSPITALITY: “Hospitality” weekend is held in the Parish Life Center Multi Purpose Room after all Satur-day/Sunday Masses on the last full weekend of each month (excluding December).

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY, Voicemail-ext. 400

2018 Advent Retreat. . . open to all women who desire to enrich their spiritual growth during the Advent season. Sponsored by Servants of the Holy Heart of Mary.

WHERE: Nazareth Spirituality Center, 717 N. Batavia Ave., Batavia, IL 60510 SUGGESTED DONATION: $100 -- A $20 de-posit is required with registration. WHEN: Friday, November 30th begins at 7 p.m. through Sunday December 2nd ending at 2:00 p.m. OR Friday, December 7th begins at 7 p.m. through Sunday Decem-ber 9th ending at 2:00 p.m.

INFO OR REGISTER: Call Linda Isleib at 630-879-1296.

CHURCH NAME AND NUMBER— The Church of Our Lady of Mercy #512124 ADDRESS— 701 S. Eola Road Aurora, IL 60504 PHONE— 630-851-3444 CONTACT PERSON— Diane - Ext. 221 SOFTWARE— Microsoft Publisher 2002 PRINTER— Acrobat 6.0 TRANSMISSION— Via Email Day: Tuesday NUMBER OF PAGES SENT— 1 through 11 SUNDAY DATE OF BULLETIN— SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS— Fed Ex: Deliver inside Door B on the North side of Church