Fr0m the Associate&

     How does the Church inculturate?  She must (1) discern good values, symbols and meanings within a new culture and use those to teach and inspire new Christians.  She must (2) reject outright evil.  She must also (3) transform, inform, and enhance those elements, within a secular or pagan culture, which can become rich with spiritual meaning. 
     So for example, in the United States, the Catholic Church sings worship music written by local authors, celebrates civil holidays with special liturgies (e.g., Memorial Day, Labor Day, 4^th of July, and Thanksgiving), prays regularly for dear values such as freedom, justice and the right to private property and work, to be upheld in nations where peoples are oppressed.  These are ways the Catholic Church takes up and further communicates good meanings found within our culture.
     Simultaneously, the Catholic Church rejects vigorously the culture of death, which the United States promotes under the guise of personal rights.  Abortion and Euthanasia are evil acts; so also is racism, abuse, pornography, and the violence growing in our schools, which is the result of being unloved.  Also to be rejected is all greed within our capitalistic system, which can use human beings for capital, while ignoring their dignity as persons.
     There are many elements in our culture, which in themselves are a-moral, but can become instrumental for the Kingdom of God.  Technology, for example, has the power to destroy the planet, but can be used to fight and heal diseases, educate the young, build global solidarity through communication networks, and raise standards of living, even in the poorest countries.  The Vatican is using modern technology probably better than most parishes or individual dioceses.  Just check out their website.  Our competitive spirit in sports can be channeled to striving for saintliness and evangelism.  The vernacular, or the English language, is now used by the local Church in every form of communication: e.g., in the liturgy, in Catholic schools, and in teachings coming from the bishops and pope.  St. John Vianney said something to this effect, "If you wish to transform the culture, you must love it."  So it is that the Catholic Church, in every generation and place, seeks to: love cultural goods, drawing them close to her breast, combat evil, and employ anything available for the Kingdom.
Fr. Michael

Youth Newz&
The deadline for Camp TNT registrations is May 8.  All current 6-8th graders are invited to join us for an  explosive summer!  Call Rick for details (763) 754-7666.

Those wishing to be TNT leaders need to turn in schedule forms to Rick Craig by May 8.  Contact Rick if you have questions (763) 754-7666.

Faith Formation&
REGISTRATION FORMS for fall 2001 have been sent.  Please fill out one registration form per family for all   programs.  Early registration ends May 31.  If you have questions call Sandy at 651-633-1540.

SEEKERS:  ADULT THEOLOGICAL BOOK CLUB
Our next meeting will be Thursday, June 7.  The book to read is The Gnostic Gospels by Elaine Pagels.  You are always welcome to join us to discuss a book that captures your interest, or as a regular member.  Explore your faith, expand your vision.  Read the selection for June and join on Thursday, June 7, 7-8:30 p.m. in the parish center.  Questions?  Call Mary Ann Zervas at 651-633-1540.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR CONFIRMATION RITE OF SENDING:
Sunday, May 20th--11:30 Mass followed by reception in cafeteria.  Need current 8th grade parents & students to volunteer to help with reception.  Call Mary Ann Zervas at 651-633-8333 to help. 

Circle of Women&
Circle of Women will meet on Thursday, May 6 with    Sister Rosalind Gefre as our guest speaker.  Sr. Rosalind will speak and demonstrate the topic, "Value of Touch and Massage."  Sister Rosalind Gefre is the founder of professional massage clinics and schools.  Circle of Women invites ALL women of ALL ages to join from 9:15--11:25 a.m. in the parish center, lower level.      Childcare is available register your child by calling our Children's Program Coordinator, Kari Gill   @763-785-6947.

School News&

Our PTO general meeting is at 6:30pm on Tues., May 8, in the cafeteria.  Please remember the school is a co-partner in the education of your child/children.  As co-partners in education, we need you to attend this meeting.  There will be a $50.00 drawing.  YOU MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN.

"FUNDRAISING WITHOUT PAYING"
Fundraising is so important at St. John's.  These efforts help to keep tuition reasonable & provide additional equipment for teachers and students.  The following is a summary of the various ways you can help raise funds for St. John's without anything extra out of your pocket.
     
*General Mills Cereal--Clip box top marked "Box Tops for  Education" from Gen. Mills cereals, Yoplait yogurt,  & Nature Valley granola. St John's receives $.15 per top.

*Pop can tabs--Simply snap tabs from cans.  They can be deposited in the drop box outside the library.