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From the Associate&
He Drank No Wine
Last Friday we celebrated the feast of St. John the Baptist, of whom Christ said, "Among those born of women, no one is greater than John; yet the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he" (Luke 7:28). St. John was the forerunner (hence the name of our quarterly newspaper) of Jesus, announcing the advent of the Messiah. He is also considered to be the final prophet of the old dispensation, meaning he is the hinge upon which the Old Testament turns to the New. He preached fearlessly about true repentance, offering a baptism for purification and the forgiveness of sin. He is described as one of priestly descent, who appeared in the desert, wearing a cloak made of camel-hair and a belt made of leather. He ate locusts and wild honey (Matthew 3:4). Concerning his diet, Jesus also said, "John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine" (because of this, the Pharisees described John as, 'demon possessed') Luke 7:33.
Last week, a gentlemen told me that some years ago, he prayed to St. John the Baptist to help him be free from a weakness to alcohol abuse. He said what inspired him was a quote about St. John in the scriptures, that 'he knew no spirits (paraphrase of Luke 7:33). Over time, this gentlemen was able to become free from his abuse, and to stave off the pressure coming from friends who also abused alcohol. To this day, he attributes the blessing of his freedom to the intercession of St. John the Baptist. I found this to be very inspiring, and a very creative insight into Scripture. I recently decided to place under the patronage and intercession of St. John, several individuals I am aware of, who are presently struggling with alcohol addiction. Maybe you also know a few. We can all turn towards the saints for the help of their prayers. As victors over sin and death, they continue to be models for us, while they simultaneously offers prayers on our behalf. Who is your patron saint? I invite you to implore his/her intercession today, even as we remember St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of this parish.
-- Fr. Michael
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REGISTER NOW FOR FAITH FORMATION! REGISTRATION FORMS
AVAILABLE ON TABLE BY NURSERY OR AT THE PARISH CENTER!
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Youth Newz&
ATTENTION 7-12TH GRADERS!
BIRTHDAY CARD DESIGN CONTEST!
It is time to design a new birthday postcard for our 2300 youth! Your drawing will be printed on the back of our birthday cards for the coming year. This is a great opportunity to show-off your talent! Think of a Christian birthday card design and submit it to Rick Craig at the Parish Office by June 30. You will win $50!
NEW PEER MINISTERS!
Congratulations to Paul Eck, Tim O'Neil, Brian Schreier, Jana Shamp, and Michael Van Beusekom who have just completed training to be peer ministers!
Music Notes&
REGARDING SUMMER MUSIC FOR MASS
Our resident Jazz combo, "Wild Honey and the Locusts," is back in session, and will be appearing often at the 11:00 summer masses, interspersed with appearances of our Electric Ensemble and our acoustic Folk Ensemble. The jazz combo will also play for some 4:30 masses in July and August. The 8:00 mass will remain relatively "quiet" and traditional, with the 9:30 having more of a "high mass" feel, both masses with cantor and organ. A vocal "schola" (small ensemble) will appear occasionally at the 9:30.
You may also notice we are singing more "old favorites" during the summer months.
Circle of Women&
Circle of Women is seeking applicants to fill the position of Nursery Coordinator. Applicants should have a love of children, excellent organizational and communication skills. The Circle of Women nursery is open Thursday mornings from 9:15 to 11:45 (during the school year only) and would also include one meeting per month. Salary is negotiable. Interested applicants should call Carrie Pomeroy at 612-780-5160.
St. John's Nursery Coordinator&
Maxine Bjerkebeck has been hired as the new coordinator for the St. John's nursery. Maxine replaces Theresa Perry. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Theresa for getting the nursery started and laying the foundation for the nursery program. Maxine is a nurse and has worked previously in a hospital nursery. The nursery will be open all summer during the 9:30 & 11:00 a.m. Masses. We are always looking for volunteers. The next time you are in the nursery please take a moment to introduce yourself. Welcome to St. John's Maxine!
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