From the Associate&

The Jasmine Flowers
(Dedicated to Patricia Miles)


     Wow am I excited about the Jasmine.  Two years ago I dug it out of a garbage can, when it was all but destroyed, leaving only a little broken stem with partial roots.  I gave it water (even some Holy Water), and prayed over it, and now it's taking over my bedroom.  This thing climbs up 10 to 12 feet.  I don't know what to do about that.  I cut it back several times, but it just kept sprouting upwards, in the same vertical manner.  So now I just let it climb    wherever it wants to go.  It looks kind of meandering (I'm not to good at plant care), but the real exciting thing is that after a year and a half hiatis, it has bloomed.  In fact I cut three branches and potted them in vermiculite, and one of them has now also flowered.  Wow, are these  flowers fragrant.  If women could put these flowers behind their ears, men would be going crazy with love (smile).  They are white and beautiful!  But the scent is the incredible characteristic; I only wished that they stuck around for a longer period.  Anyway, at the moment, I have two new growths, and upon each one, three flowers are blooming.  I'm calling them, "the little trinities."  You see, even horticulture activity can be a real spiritual encounter.  So the message, it seems, is unchanged, namely, "Keep hope alive; if your life seems like it's   shattered and in the dumps, turn it all over to Jesus; in time He can make it blossom with beauty and happiness." 
 

Fr. Michael

Youth Newz&

TNT campers capped off a terrific summer of service and fun with a trip to Valleyfair.  Campers had opportunities to serve at a variety of sites such as the Goodwill, nursing homes, area parks, food shelves, homeless shelters and social service agencies.  Watch for detailed coverage of TNT in the September issue of the Newzpaper.

Youth in 10-12th grade, who have completed Peer Ministry Core Training I, who wish to help with small groups and retreats are encouraged to attend Core Training IIB, Sunday August 26.  See your Newzpaper or call Rick Craig for details.  (763) 754-7666

The deadline for the contest to create a new birthday card design has been extended to September 1.  All 7-12th graders are invited to submit a design for the postcard that is sent to all youth on their birthdays.  The prize for submitting the winning design is $50.  Submit your  entries to Rick Craig.

Faith Formation&
NEW FAITH FORMATION COORDINATOR
St. John's welcomes Teresa Neuman to the staff!  Teresa is our new Elementary Faith Formation Coordinator.  Teresa began her position on August 15, 2001 and will coordinate Faith Formation for grades 1-6 and Celebrate the Word for grades 1-3.  Welcome Teresa!

CLASS LISTS
Faith Formation class lists are posted on the bulletin boards at the west entrance.  Please verify the class day and time for your child and call Sandy at 651-633-1540 if you have any changes. 

SEEKERS:  ADULT THEOLOGICAL BOOK CLUB
Our next meeting will be Thursday, September 27.  The book to read is The Birth of Christianity by John Dominic Crossan, HarperSanFrancisco.  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.  SEEKERS meets from 7:00--8:30 p.m. in the parish center.  Questions?  Call Mary Ann Zervas at 651-633-1540.

Little Lights Preschool&
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The preschool is currently seeking qualified applicants for Teacher Assistant in the preschool classroom.            Education in Early Childhood, or experience in a licensed day care required.  Hours are Monday--Friday, 9:00am - noon.  Please send resume to Mary Walus at the parish center or call 651-633-8333.

Music Notes&
Our guest vocalist at today's 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. Masses is Star Williams, a local jazz and gospel talent.  Thank you, Star, for sharing your gift.

CHOIR ACCOMPANIST NEEDED
For our 9:30 Adult Choir starting in September.  Solid   piano skills desired.  Wednesday night rehearsals.  Contact Cheri Sykes at 651-633-8333.

OPEN DOORS (divorced/widowed/singles group) 
Open Doors meets the second Tuesday of the month, in the parish center basement for socializing and snacks (next date:  September 11).  All are welcome! 

Watch the bulletin for upcoming events, but in the meantime, mark October 20 on your calendar for a large group dinner and get-together in the new parish center!

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