Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet: Lent!

St. Paul the Apostle Confirmation Preparation
Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet – Lent

(See “Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Instructions” sheet for additional instructions about this process.)

Candidate’s Name: _______________________________________________

These sheets are to be used as guides for the sharing sessions. The sheets are divided into three sections: Prayer, Knowing My Faith, and Christian Service. The reflections on these three sections can be recorded on the My Reflections pages in the candidate’s journal (or any other notebook/journal). Candidates and sponsors should share the respective topics together, using as much of the sheet as time allows. Candidates then fill out the brief section at the bottom of the page and turn in this sheet to the Religious Education Office.

Prayer
1.) Lent is a time of challenge. We are challenged to make renewed efforts to be more Christlike, to put more enthusiasm into living the Gospel, to be genuinely loving toward one another. This Lent, think of the characteristics of the Christian community. A community: worships regularly; serves others in imitation of Christ; sees itself as a community, the Church; gives witness to its faith in word and deed.
2.) Using the italicized words above, write a paragraph about how you have grown in each of these areas. What area do you need to work on as you prepare for Confirmation?
3.) Participate fully in the parish services of the Easter Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday) and Easter Sunday. Write your impressions in your journal.

Knowing My Faith
1.) Explain how each of the following relates to Confirmation and what happens to you during the ceremony: holy oil (chrism); Sign of the Cross; bishop; laying on of hands; words such as “Be sealed…”; Confirmation name.
2.) Read the Acts of the Apostles 2:1-12, the story of Pentecost. What would you have done if you were there? What kind of Christian do you want to be?
3.) Make a list of the things you know about Confirmation already. Make another list of questions you may have.

Christian Service
You may wish to think of an extra act of service you can do during Lent: be cheerful at school, go out of your way to be kind to those you find difficult, pay more attention to your studies, put more enthusiasm into your Christian service or Confirmation preparation, spend more time with your family, be more respectful to your parents, give some of your extra time to do things with your brothers and sisters. Let the world see your love for God and your willingness to serve.
God bless you in your faith sharing!

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Candidates - fill out this section and then return form to: St. Paul the Apostle Youth Ministry Office; 6401 Gages Lake Rd., Gurnee, IL 60031 -OR- michelle-stpaul@sbcglobal.net

Date you discussed this sheet with your sponsor: _______________

Which topics (from above) did you discuss with your sponsor? ___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________


What did you learn from your sponsor?
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________
___________________________________________________

Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet: Advent!

St. Paul the Apostle Confirmation Preparation
Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet – Advent

(See “Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Instructions” sheet for additional instructions about this process.)

Candidate’s Name ___________________________________________________

These sheets are to be used as guides for the sharing sessions. The sheets are divided into three sections: Prayer, Knowing My Faith, and Christian Service. The reflections on these three sections can be recorded on the My Reflections pages in the candidate’s journal (or any other notebook/journal). Candidates and sponsors should share the respective topics together, using as much of the sheet as time allows. Candidates then fill out the brief section at the bottom of the page and turn in this sheet to the Religious Education Office.

Prayer
1.) Christ came to the earth because he loves you. What part of the nativity narrative (Luke chaps. 1-2 and Matthew chaps. 1-2) means the most to you? Why?
2.) Advent and Christmas hymns are beautiful prayers. Find one in a missalette or hymnal. In your journal, copy the words (one verse) of the Advent hymn that you find most meaningful. Use it as an Advent prayer.

Knowing My Faith
1.) Look up the Joyful Mysteries of the rosary and write them in your journal. How can praying the Joyful Mysteries help you prepare for Christ’s coming? (For the Joyful Mysteries, see your book or go to:
http://www.findinggod.org/m_frmwork.asp?id=2689
2.) During Advent, we speak of the three comings of Christ: in history, in mystery, and in majesty. What does each of these terms mean?
3.) Remember, December 8 is the feast of the Immaculate Conception, when we celebrate Mary’s being conceived without original sin. It is a Holy Day of Obligation. What is the meaning of Mary’s Immaculate Conception? (For information about the meaning of the Immaculate Conception, see your book or go to:
http://www.findinggod.org/m_frmwork.asp?id=104801

Christian Service
1.) How do you plan to make Christmas a time for showing love to Christ? To others?
2.) How can you make this holiday season simpler, less filled with the business of buying and selling?

For the "My Mementos" section of your Confirmation Journal
How does your family prepare for Christmas? What special customs do you observe? Do you have any pictures of your family at Christmas to put in your journal?

God bless you in your faith sharing!

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Candidates - fill out this section and then return form to: St. Paul the Apostle Youth Ministry Office; 6401 Gages Lake Rd., Gurnee, IL 60031 -OR- michelle-stpaul@sbcglobal.net
Date you discussed this sheet with your sponsor: _____________

Which topics (from above) did you discuss with your sponsor? __________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

What did you learn from your sponsor?
­­­­­­­­­­­­__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

Canidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet #5

St. Paul the Apostle Confirmation Preparation
Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet #5

(See “Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Instructions” sheet for additional instructions about this process.)


Candidate’s Name _____________________________________________

These sheets are to be used as guides for the sharing sessions. The sheets are divided into three sections: Prayer, Knowing My Faith, and Christian Service. The reflections on these three sections can be recorded on the My Reflections pages in the candidate’s journal (or any other notebook/journal). Candidates and sponsors should share the respective topics together, using as much of the sheet as time allows. Candidates then fill out the brief section at the bottom of the page and turn in this sheet to the Religious Education Office.

Prayer
1.) Look up in a Bible: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, and read it aloud. Evaluate yourself on it. How well do you love? Reread the same passage, but this time say your own name wherever it uses the word love.
2.) Each night for the next week., look up one of the following Scripture passages and write a summary of it in your journal:

Matthew 5:13-16-----Luke 4:16-21-----John 14:23-26
Matthew 16:24-25-----Luke 8:4-15-----John 14:15-17
Matthew 25:14-30-----Luke 10:21-24-----John 15:11-17

Knowing My Faith
1.) Who is your bishop? What do you know about your bishop? How does he help the people of your diocese live the Christian life? (For information about the Cardinal Archbishop of Chicago, go to: http://www.archchicago.org/cardinal/cardinal.shtm --or---
http://www.archchicago.org/thearchdiocese/cardinal_george.shtm
2.) Discuss what you have learned about the structure of the Church (pope, bishops, priests, lay people, etc.).


Christian Service
What are you doing to show you are really interested in being a member of this faith community?

For the "My Mementos section" of your Confirmation Journal
Find out something about the bishop who will confirm you. (For information about Bishop Francis Kane, go to: http://www.archchicago.org/thearchdiocese/bishop_francis_kane.shtm

God bless you in your faith sharing!

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Candidates - fill out this section and then return form to: St. Paul the Apostle Youth Ministry Office;6401 Gages Lake Rd., Gurnee, IL 60031 -OR- michelle-stpaul@sbcglobal.net

Date you discussed this sheet with your sponsor: _______________

Which topics (from above) did you discuss with your sponsor?
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________

What did you learn from your sponsor?
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________

Canidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet #4

St. Paul the Apostle Confirmation Preparation
Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet #4

(See “Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Instructions” sheet for additional instructions about this process.)

Candidate’s Name:
___________________________________________________

These sheets are to be used as guides for the sharing sessions. The sheets are divided into three sections: Prayer, Knowing My Faith, and Christian Service. The reflections on these three sections can be recorded on the My Reflections pages in the candidate’s journal (or any other notebook/journal). Candidates and sponsors should share the respective topics together, using as much of the sheet as time allows. Candidates then fill out the brief section at the bottom of the page and turn in this sheet to the Religious Education Office.

Prayer
--If you are serious about your spiritual life, set aside time each day to examine your conscience. This means looking prayerfully at how you have or have not imitated Christ. After you have looked at your life, pray to the Holy Spirit, asking him to help you be Christlike in your thoughts, words, and actions. Do this each night this week. Write in your journal a resolution to follow Jesus better the next day. Examine your conscience each night. (For an Examination of Conscience, see your book or go to:
http://www.findinggod.org/m_frmwork.asp?id=2686)

Knowing My Faith
1.) It is good to look over the past weeks and evaluate how your Confirmation preparation is helping you grow in your relationships with Christ, your family, your friends, and the Church. When have you been strong and faithful to Christ? When has it been difficult for you to live your faith?
2.) Write in your journal the Act of Contrition. Resolve to memorize it, if you have not already done so. (For the Act of Contrition, see your book or:
http://www.findinggod.org/m_frmwork.asp?id=7068)
3.) Write the Ten Commandments in your journal. Under each one, write how that commandment helps you show love for God or others. (For the Ten Commandments see your book or go to:
http://www.findinggod.org/m_frmwork.asp?id=2780)

Christian Service
1.) How can you be a Christian healer or peacemaker at home this week?

God bless you in your faith sharing!

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Candidates - fill out this section and then return form to: St. Paul the Apostle Youth Ministry Office; 6401 Gages Lake Rd., Gurnee, IL 60031 -OR- michelle-stpaul@sbcglobal.net
Date you discussed this sheet with your sponsor: _______________

Which topics (from above) did you discuss with your sponsor?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

What did you learn from your sponsor?
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________

Canidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet #3

St. Paul the Apostle Confirmation Preparation
Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet #3

(See “Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Instructions” sheet
for additional instructions about this process.)


Candidate’s Name: ___________________________________________________

These sheets are to be used as guides for the sharing sessions. The sheets are divided into three sections: Prayer, Knowing My Faith, and Christian Service. The reflections on these three sections can be recorded on the My Reflections pages in the candidate’s journal (or any other notebook/journal). Candidates and sponsors should share the respective topics together, using as much of the sheet as time allows. Candidates then fill out the brief section at the bottom of the page and turn in this sheet to the Religious Education Office.

Prayer
-- The prayer given to us by Jesus is the Our Father, the Lord’s Prayer. It is a prayer of love and unity, of sorrow for sin, and of gratitude for God’s mercy. It has been the prayer of Christians throughout the centuries. Write the Lord’s Prayer in your journal. Pause after each phrase and really think about the meaning. Write your reflections in your journal. Jesus told us to “pray always.” This week, each night before you go to bed, try to spend at least 10 minutes reading the Scriptures. Write a reflection in your journal after each night’s reading. Date each entry.

Knowing My Faith
1.) Jesus taught us what we must do to be his followers. His teachings are found in the Sermon on the Mount (Gospel of Matthew, chapters 5-7). Write the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) in your journal. What do they mean to you? (For the Beatitudes, see your book or:
http://www.findinggod.org/m_frmwork.asp?id=7072)
2.) So far, how well have you been involved in the preparation for Confirmation?
3.) Who are your pastor and parish priests? What are their roles? Does your parish have a deacon? What is his role in the Church?

Christian Service
1.) How do the Beatitudes relate to the attitudes needed for Christian service? Have you been serving others in a cheerful way?
2.) How have you reached out to the discouraged, the lonely, or the elderly?

For the "My Mementos" section of your Confirmation Journal
-- Have your parents or sponsor helped you with your Christian service? Draw a picture of yourself giving service. Glue it in your journal.
God bless you in your faith sharing!

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Candidates - fill out this section and then return form to: St. Paul the Apostle Youth Ministry Office; 6401 Gages Lake Rd., Gurnee, IL 60031 -OR- michelle-stpaul@sbcglobal.net

Date you discussed this sheet with your sponsor: ______________

Which topics (from above) did you discuss with your sponsor? __________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

What did you learn from your sponsor? __________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

Canidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet #2

St. Paul the Apostle Confirmation Preparation
Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet #2

(See “Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Instructions” sheet #1 for additional instructions about this process.)

Candidate’s Name:
___________________________________________________

These sheets are to be used as guides for the sharing sessions. The sheets are divided into three sections: Prayer, Knowing My Faith, and Christian Service. The reflections on these three sections can be recorded on the My Reflections pages in the candidate’s journal (or any other notebook/journal). Candidates and sponsors should share the respective topics together, using as much of the sheet as time allows. Candidates then fill out the brief section at the bottom of the page and turn in this sheet to the Religious Education Office.

Prayer----We sometimes speak of the four ACTS of prayer.

A---Adoration or love------- We express our love for God.
C---Contrition or sorrow------- We express our sorrow for our sins and ask forgiveness.
T---Thanksgiving------- We thank God for his many blessings.
S---Supplication or request-------- We ask for his help and guidance.

A healthy prayer life includes all of these approaches. Examine your prayer life. What approach do you use most often? Least often? For a week keep track of the prayers you use.

Knowing My Faith
1.) What does it mean to give witness of your Christian faith to those of your own age? How have your parents helped you? How has your sponsor helped you? How have other candidates helped you?
2.) Baptism is the sacrament by which you were incorporated into Christ and became a member of the Church. Ask your sponsor why he or she agreed to be your sponsor. Together, talk about the responsibility of a sponsor that you both consider most important.

Christian Service
1.) Find one incident in the Gospels that shows Jesus helping others. What do you learn about him in the incident? How can you imitate him in a similar way?

For the "My Mementos" section of your Confirmation Journal
1.) Do you have a picture of your parish church? (Check the parish website.) Paste it in your journal. Write the feast day of the church below it.
2.) What new things have you learned about your parish?
God bless you in your faith sharing!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Candidates - fill out this section and then return form to: St. Paul the Apostle Youth Ministry Office; 6401 Gages Lake Rd., Gurnee, IL 60031 -OR- michelle-stpaul@sbcglobal.net
Date you discussed this sheet with your sponsor: _______________

Which topics (from above) did you discuss with your sponsor? __________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

What did you learn from your sponsor? __________________________________________________
__________________________________________________
__________________________________________________

Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet #1

St. Paul the Apostle Confirmation Preparation
Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Sheet #1

(See “Candidate/Sponsor Faith Sharing Instructions” sheet for additional instructions about this process.)

Candidate’s Name:
___________________________________________

These sheets are to be used as guides for the sharing sessions. The sheets are divided into three sections: Prayer, Knowing My Faith, and Christian Service. The reflections on these three sections can be recorded on the My Reflections pages in the candidate’s journal (or any other notebook/journal). Candidates and sponsors should share the respective topics together, using as much of the sheet as time allows. Candidates then fill out the brief section at the bottom of the page and turn in this sheet to the Religious Education Office.

Prayer
1.) When do you pray? How do you pray?
2.) What does prayer mean to you?
3.) How will you try to grow in prayer during this time of preparation for Confirmation? Be specific, but realistic. Don’t try to do too much and then give up.

Knowing My Faith
--Every week we make a profession of faith in the words of the Nicene Creed. This Creed contains the beliefs of our faith. Read over the creed. Christians of every century have held strongly to these beliefs. Some have even given up their lives to defend them. Why are these beliefs important to you? (For the Creed, see your book or go to:
http://www.findinggod.org/m_frmwork.asp?id=7055

Christian Service
1.) As a Christian, which spiritual or corporal works of mercy have you practiced at home? In your neighborhood? At school? (For the works of mercy, see your book or go to:
http://www.findinggod.org/m_frmwork.asp?id=2791
2.) How do you plan to continue showing your faith and love through service?

For the "My Mementos" section of your Confirmation Journal
1.) You have begun more serious preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Put into your journal the research you have done on the saint whose name you have chosen for Confirmation.
2.) If you have a picture of the saint and a prayer that the saint has written, include them, too.
3.) Do you have a picture of your sponsor and yourself? Glue the picture in your journal.

God bless you in your faith sharing!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Candidates - fill out this section and then return form to: St. Paul the Apostle Youth Ministry Office; 6401 Gages Lake Rd., Gurnee, IL 60031 -OR- michelle-stpaul@sbcglobal.net
Date you discussed this sheet with your sponsor: ___________

Which topics (from above) did you discuss with your sponsor? ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

What did you learn from your sponsor? ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________

Confirmation Rehersal & Confirmation Dates

Confirmation Rehearsal:

All rehearsals will be held in the church proper on Wednesday, February 13, 2008. The rehearsal schedule is as follows:

6:00 – 7:00 pm for those who will be Confirmed at 9:00 am on February 23rd
7:00 – 8:00 pm for those who will be Confirmed at 1:30 pm on February 23rd
8:00 – 9:00 pm for those who will be Confirmed at 3:00 pm on February 24th

Confirmation Dates & Times:

February 23, 2008 @ 9:00 am Ceremony
February 23, 2008 @ 1:30 pm Ceremony
February 24, 2008 @ 3:00 pm Ceremony

Confirmation Retreat

Confirmation Retreat/Mass/Reception
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Retreat is from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Attendance is mandatory for all candidates. This is a wonderful day and we offer the candidates a wide variety of activities. Candidates should dress appropriately, but comfortably. We will provide pizza for lunch and snacks and refreshments throughout the day. Please feel free to have your son or daughter bring a sack lunch if they prefer. If you know of a scheduling conflict with this day for the retreat, please contact our office in writing as soon as you can.

Mass will begin at 3:45 p.m.

We will conclude the day with a Mass in the church. We ask that all families please arrive at church by 3:30 pm.

Confirmation reception immediately follows Mass.
Once Mass has concluded, we will come together as a community for a reception following our Confirmation retreat in the Lower Level. We encourage all families to participate. It is a wonderful opportunity to sit, eat, and listen to your son and/or daughter as they share their retreat experience with you.

CONFIRMATION RECEPTION RSVP CARD
Due Date: November 26, 2007

There will be a reception immediately following the retreat Mass. Please return the RSVP card by the above date. We will serve cake and refreshments.

Letter to the Bishop

Due Date: Monday, January 28, 2008

Each candidate is required to write a formal letter to the confirming bishop of the diocese, prior to Confirmation. A sample is in this packet.

The contents of the letter should include the following information:

* Introduce yourself. Tell something about your family, your background.
*Request the sacrament. Give several reasons why you would like to be confirmed.
*Explain how you have prepared for the sacrament. It is important that you tell about specific parts of your preparation: your prayer life, your celebration of the other sacraments, your service for others exercised at home and within the parish, and so on.
*Tell how you will continue to carry out your life of service to God and others through the power of the Spirit. Tell how you plan to make your Confirmation in the faith real and alive in the future.

This is a formal and important letter that they are writing. It serves as your teen’s request for full initiation into our community. It should be written thoughtfully and be respectful in tone. This letter should be typed and checked for spelling and grammar. If your teen does not have access to a computer, please neatly write the letter by hand. Bishop Kane does read each letter. The bishop uses the letters as part of his homily. Please make sure the letters are appropriate in content and appearance and deliver them to the Youth Ministry office by the above due date. Please do not be late.


AN EXAMPLE LETTER TO THE BISHOP:

Susan Smith
St. Paul the Apostle Youth Ministry
8th Grade Confirmation Class 2008


Dear Bishop Kane,
My name is Susan Smith. I am formally requesting to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation on Saturday, March 18, 2006 at St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Gurnee.

I am thirteen years old and I go to Woodland Middle School. I am the youngest of four children. My oldest sister Karen is in college and my two brothers go to Warren High School. My dad is in the Navy and my mom is a substitute teacher.

I asked my grandma to be my sponsor. She is always really nice to me and I love her very much. She calls me “her little cookie” because she says I can always look on the bright side of things. My grandma is a big Cubs fan and she watches them play on the television all the time. She goes to Mass everyday even though she doesn’t have to. She told me that when she starts off each day with God it makes the rest of the day seem special. She is very holy and she talks about God all the time. She misses my grandpa who died last year but she told me that he is helping Jesus get things ready for her when she goes to heaven. She even prays at McDonalds when she eats there.

I chose Joan of Arc for my Confirmation name. My grandma’s name is Joan and my dad is in the Navy. She is the patron saint of the members of the military. She was a really great soldier and God gave her many special gifts. I thought she is a good person for me to look up to as a role model. I am looking forward to my Confirmation day.

Yours Respectfully,
Susan Smith

Service Hours

Due Date: Monday, February 11, 2008

Candidates are required to fulfill 25 hours of service. Ideally, service hours should be divided as evenly as possible between service to family, parish and the community at large. Candidates need to fill out the service hour forms and turn them in to the Office of Youth Ministry. It is recommended that you make a copy of the service hour forms before submitting them to the office in the unfortunate event they get lost or misplaced. We will review and record the hours, stamp the form as being received and then return them to your teen.

The forms serve as a service journal for the teens. They are an excellent resource that can be used for the bishop letter.

The Office of Youth Ministry is not responsible for scheduling or providing service hours. We recognize the scheduling demands that many parents and teens face and we have tried to provide as many service opportunities as we can. We will also notify the candidates when service opportunities present themselves. Please check the Youth Ministry Handbook, the Youth Ministry bulletin board located outside of the Youth Ministry Office and the Sunday bulletin for available service opportunities.

Final Corrections

Due Date: Friday, February 11, 2008

In early January you will receive a copy of your teen’s Confirmation Information Sheet to ‘proof.’ Please carefully look over your information make any and all changes and turn it in to the Office of Youth Ministry ASAP. You may also email corrections to youthmin-stpaul@sbcglobal.net

ALL CORRECTIONS MUST BE MADE IN WRITING. If we do not receive any corrections by February 11, we will automatically assume the information is correct. We cannot make any changes after this date because the Confirmation Booklet will have gone to print.

Certificate Corrections: As is the case with all human endeavors, we do make mistakes. If there is a mistake on your certificate, we will re-print it for you after Confirmation day. Please indicate in pencil/pen on the certificate any changes that need to be made. Drop the certificate off at the office (under the door if we are not there) and we will be more than happy to produce a new certificate.

Confirmation Information Sheets

Due Date: Monday, November 26, 2007

We have designed a comprehensive form in hopes of gathering all the information necessary to ensure that Confirmation day goes as smoothly as possible. Please know that we are asking for seating reservation information early. Give us your best guess and contact us with changes as it gets closer to the actual date. If you need any special seating, please let us know. Parents who are trained Eucharistic ministers at St. Paul’s are encouraged to be Eucharistic ministers for their candidate’s ceremony. Please indicate your interest on the back of the Confirmation Information Sheet.

Please Note: We cannot process your teen’s Confirmation paperwork until we have a Baptismal Certificate and the Confirmation Information Sheet on file in the office.

Confirmation Name Selection: Taking a new name at Confirmation can be symbolic of a new or deeper stage in your faith life. There are several Scripture stories of people whose names changed after they experienced a conversion: Abram to Abraham, Jacob to Israel, Simon to Peter, and Saul to Paul. Celebrating the sacrament of Confirmation is an opportunity for you to reflect on what Baptism and union with Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit in Confirmation means in your life. It is also an occasion to reflect on how you want to witness to the power of the Holy Spirit in your life. If you choose a name other than your baptismal name, look to saints and holy people who are truly witnesses of faith for you. Choose the name of a saint you admire and whom you want to be your patron. The decision to choose a special patron (and name) at Confirmation or to honor the name received at Baptism is not really the most important part of the celebration. What is important is God and the Church’s commitment to you through the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Saint Reports

Due Date: Monday, January 28, 2008

It is important that your teen learn as much as they can about their chosen patron saint. Your candidate is, after all, asking this saint to be a mentor and an advocate for them for the rest of their lives. A sample copy of a saint report is provided in this packet.

The report should include the following information:
1. A short biography and or history of the saint i.e., when and where he/she lived, and what he/she did to become a saint.
2. Why the teen chose this saint for Confirmation.
3. List at least 3 reasons why they find the saint’s life interesting or inspiring.

We will cover the particulars regarding the saint reports during the 8th grade session on September 24, 2007.

Your teen will be given handouts in class regarding the saint reports. The Saint reports must be typed, using a 12 point font, and should be one page in length. We do have some resources available in the Office of Youth Ministry. In this packet there is a sample saint report and a list of available Internet resources they may use to assist them in their research or check your local library. If your teen needs any help in locating resources, just let us know and we will be happy to help!


SAINT WEB SITES:
www.catholic.org
click the saints link in the top left corner

www.cin.org
scroll down looking in the blue bar at left to click the saints link

www.catholic-forum.com
look in the red bar at left to click the patron saints index link

http://www.shc.edu/theolibrary/saints.htm

www.catholic-pages.com
click truth link; then scroll down to click saint link
and don’t miss the jokes through the smile link

www.domestic-church.com
look center right in the yellow bar at top to click the saints link
Susan Smith
P.U.L.S.E.
Class:
Saint Report


AN EXAMPLE OF A SAINT REPORT:

Joan of Arc
Patron Saint of Members of the Military
Feast Day-May 30

I have chosen Saint Joan of Arc as my Confirmation name because I believe she is a wonderful role model for young women. My grandmother’s name is Joan and since she is my sponsor I thought it was a good name for me to choose. My dad is also in the Navy and she is the patron saint of the Members of the Military.

Joan of Arc was born on January 6, 1412 in Domremy, France. She was just an ordinary girl. She could not read nor write. She had to help with the household chores, take care of all the animals in the fields, helped bring in the harvest and she was ‘very good with a needle.’

She heard voices when she was 13 years old that called her to save France from the English during the 100 Years War. She also had visions and she believed they were of St. Michael, St. Margaret and St. Catherine of Alexandria. France was at war with England and they were losing the war. The English occupied much of France. She was given troops to command. She wore armor and carried a white banner that represented God blessing the French royal emblem. She stood up to all the people who doubted her and she was very successful in leading her troops to victory.

She was captured by some soldiers and was sold to the English allies. She was charged with heresy and sorcery. After 14 months she was condemned to death. She was burned at the stake. As she was dying she asked an English soldier to hold up a cross-made out of two-pieces of wood so she could see it and she kept repeating the name of Jesus. The only thing that remained untouched by the fire was her heart. Her ashes were thrown into the River Seine in case people came to worship her at her grave and treat her as a saint.

The reason I think Joan of Arc is a good patron saint for me is that I want to join the Navy after I finish college. I want to become a nurse and work on a hospital ship taking care of all of the sick and injured sailors and soldiers. I think they are all very brave and to leave their families and defend our country. I miss my dad very much when he is away on duty but he always tells us we need to be brave for him so that he can be brave when he does his job.
I also think she is good because even though she couldn’t read or write, she didn’t let that get in her way of doing what God called her to do. Sometimes I have a hard time with my schoolwork and I sometimes thought that maybe I couldn’t become a nurse because of this. But Joan of Arc did really great things even though she couldn’t read and people made fun of her. She believed in herself and all the gifts the God gave her and she did really great things. My grandma always calls me “her little cookie” because she says I always give even the bad things in life a good taste. I think it is important to make sick people feel better and not just by using medicine but by being nice to them and to talk to them and stuff.

Sacramental Records

Baptismal Records:
We must have a photocopy of your teen’s baptismal record. If you have not submitted one, our office will contact you. The parish that baptized your teen is responsible for maintaining all sacramental records for their entire lifetime. Once they have been confirmed, we forward the necessary documentation to the parish of baptism to be entered into the records as well as recording it in our parish register.

If your teen was baptized in a Christian church other than the Roman Catholic Church, they may need to make a Profession of Faith, or need to be baptized, or they may not need anything at all. We must review their information and then determine what needs to take place. Please contact the Office of Youth Ministry if your son or daughter falls into this category.

Eucharist and Reconciliation:
You are not required to submit documentation that these sacraments were received. However, if your teen has not received either of these sacraments, we will provide additional formation sessions. The Office of Youth Ministry will contact you based on the information received on the registration form if your teen falls into this category.

Attendance

Regular attendance and arriving on time at P.U.L.S.E. is essential for the continuity and reinforcement of Catholic teaching and spiritual formation. Regular, consecutive attendance is expected of all teens. Due to the nature of the curriculum and the importance of each candidate being fully prepared for the sacrament, the following attendance rules apply:

1. In the event that your teen must miss a class, a phoned or emailed excuse is expected and parents should make arrangements with the Office of Youth Ministry to pick up any handouts, etc.
2. If three classes are missed without adequate reason, such as illness or a family emergency, the teaching staff, the Office of Youth Ministry, and the pastor will review your teen’s progress. It will be determined at that time if your teen has the ability to successfully complete the program and be adequately prepared to receive the sacrament of Confirmation.
3. We recognize the fact that families can be faced with some unforeseen crisis due to illness or extenuating family circumstances. Please contact the office if such a situation were to occur. We are willing to work with you.

The Role of the Sponsor

Choosing a Sponsor:
Each candidate, with the help of his or her parents, is responsible for choosing a sponsor. At Baptism, parents chose two sponsors (godparents) for their child – people who made a commitment to be an example of the faith and help raise them in the Catholic way of life. For Confirmation, the candidate again invites someone to serve as a sponsor to help him or her live out their Baptismal promises.

The responsibilities of the sponsor include:
• Guiding the candidate to understand and appreciate the Sacrament of Confirmation and have the right intentions for receiving it;
• Mentoring the candidate throughout the preparation process by encouraging him or her to pray and participate in the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, and to become actively involved in the life of their parish community;
• Engaging in the candidate’s spiritual journey through periodic meetings for the purpose of faith-sharing;
• Presenting the candidate for Confirmation and continuing to assist the confirmed person in living a Christian life.

Sponsors are to be chosen because of their ability to “apprentice” others into the Catholic way of life, which involves prayer, celebration of the sacraments, living the Gospel, turning to other Catholics for support and guidance, and studying the faith. The role of the sponsor for Confirmation involves much more than simply standing behind a Confirmation candidate as the bishop confirms. It is to be the beginning, or the continuation, of a lasting relationship of mentoring and apprenticeship.

The Church suggests that, to express more clearly the relationship between Confirmation and Baptism, the baptismal sponsor (godparent) also be the Confirmation sponsor. (However, the candidate may choose an individual other than the baptismal sponsor.)

There is no regulation determining that men must be sponsors for boys and women must be sponsors for girls.

Canon Law states that a sponsor must:
• Be at least sixteen years of age;
• Be a confirmed Catholic;
• Be living according to, and an active member of, the Catholic faith;
• Be an individual other than the candidate’s parent.

Sponsor Involvement in the Confirmation Preparation Process:
Saints Faith, Hope and Charity Parish is committed to involving the sponsor throughout the journey to Confirmation. During the time of preparation, they are expected to take an active role in the life of the candidate. This demands time, commitment and willingness to share their faith with the candidate, but also presents a unique and valuable opportunity to deepen both their relationship with a young person and their own faith life.

The sponsor will:
• Engage in faith-sharing conversation with the candidate at least four times throughout the preparation process, using the “Candidate/Sponsor Sheets” available from the parish website. The purpose of the faith-sharing component is to promote a dialogue between candidates and sponsors. Explanation and instructions for the faith-sharing component follow below.
• Write a letter to the pastor affirming that the candidate has engaged in the process of preparation and is ready to be confirmed. Guidelines for this letter and due date follow below.
• Attend Mass with the candidate whenever possible and celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation with them during the Lenten season prior to the celebration of Confirmation.
• Be present for the celebration of the sacrament of Confirmation on Saturday, February 23 or 24, 2008.
• Remain engaged in the faith life of the newly confirmed, continuing to share prayer, insights, and support as the young person continues his or her journey of faith beyond Confirmation.

Instructions for Faith-Sharing Component for Sponsors (or Parents) & Candidates:
• Candidates should arrange to meet with their sponsor for at least FOUR faith-sharing conversations.
• An hour of sharing is recommended. Choosing dates and times in advance may help ensure regular communication.
• The candidates and sponsors may download the faith-sharing sheets (called “Candidate/Sponsor Sheets”) from the parish website or go to www.stpaulyouthministry.blogspot.com and click on “Candidate/Sponsor Sheets” provided in the Confirmation section on the sidebar.
• These sheets are to be used as guides for the sharing sessions. The sheets are divided into three sections: Prayer, Knowing My Faith, and Christian Service. The reflections on these three sections can be recorded on the My Reflections pages in the candidate’s journal (or any other notebook/journal). Candidates and sponsors should share the respective topics together, using as much of the sheet as time allows. At the bottom of each faith-sharing sheet is a suggested My Mementos activity. This can make the Confirmation journal special for the candidates. It recommends that the candidates, their families, and their sponsors gather reminders of the special events during the preparation process.
• SEVEN “Candidate/Sponsor Sheets” are available: numbers 1-5, and then Advent & Lent. We are asking candidates to discuss, and turn in reflections for at least FOUR of these sheets, but would encourage the use of all.
• Throughout this time of preparation, sponsors should seek to support candidates and their families. They should help the candidates become aware of their reasons for wanting to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation. Candidates will grow in their acceptance of the responsibility of being confirmed in the Catholic Church.
• Parents may also wish to use some or all of these sheets for their own conversations with their child.

Guidelines for Sponsor’s Letter of Affirmation to the Pastor:
• This letter is due on: February 11, 2008.
• Please mail your letter to the attention of:
St. Paul the Apostle Parish Youth Ministry
6401 Gages Lake Road
Gurnee, IL 60031
(We will collect the letters and present all to the Pastor at the same time.)
• The letter should be written TO: Rev. Ray Clennon, Pastor of St Paul the Apostle.
• Your letter of affirmation should include: a statement of your belief that the candidate has an understanding and appreciation of the Sacrament of Confirmation and that the candidate has a deep personal commitment to Christian values; a brief description of Christian qualities or traits that you have observed in the candidate; any other comments you wish to share.

The Role of the Parents

Dear Parents,
Just as your child grows physically, intellectually, and emotionally, so too, he or she grows spiritually. As a parent responsible for the development of your child, you try to meet all of his or her changing needs. You foster and direct spiritual growth by the atmosphere in your home, the example of your life, and the celebration of the sacraments. You have seen that your child has been initiated into the faith through Baptism and the Eucharist. Now your young teenager is at the stage of strengthening and reaffirming his or her commitment to the faith through the Sacrament of Confirmation. The elements of our parish preparation program for the sacrament, including the textbook, Confirmed in the Spirit, by Loyola Press, will assist you in giving your teen a better understanding of Confirmation, and will help him or her lead a more active, responsible Christian life.

The goal of the sacramental preparation program is to help young people be receptive and responsive to the graces and challenges of the Sacrament of Confirmation. They learn that it is a Sacrament of Initiation that deepens their relationship with the Church and commitment to being active members. They become more aware of the presence and action of the Spirit and his gifts within them, which empower them to live more fully as Jesus did. They will discover ways to fulfill the specific responsibilities that are theirs as Christians.

Throughout the preparation process, we also hope to give guidance to all those involved in the formation of the candidates and in the celebration of the sacrament so that Confirmation becomes a meaningful faith experience for the candidates, the family, and the parish community. At the same time, we aim to equip the candidates with the knowledge and attitudes necessary for the lifelong process of conversion to Christ.

Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to be our advocate and helper. At Pentecost this Spirit was poured out on the first believers, making them witnesses full of faith and courage. At Baptism the Holy Spirit comes upon us, and at Confirmation we are anointed in the strength of this Spirit and sent to carry on Christ’s mission.

The Spirit in us is the same Spirit who anointed Jesus to redeem the world and bring about the kingdom of the Father through loving service. The Holy Spirit and his gifts help us to live our baptismal promises, grow into the likeness of Christ, and share his mission. We are united with other Spirit-filled people in the Church, the Body of Christ. Together we spread the message of the Good News, we worship at the Eucharist, we support one another in community, and we give service to those in need.

As young teens struggle to clarify their own convictions, attitudes, and values, parents are their chief models. Faith is caught more than taught. In undertaking more seriously your role of preparing your teenager for Confirmation, consider these questions:
• Do I keep lines of communication open with my teenager?
• Do I make time for prayer, both private and communal?
• Do I actively participate in the sacramental life of the Church?
• Do I try to grow in knowledge of the faith and share it with my family?
• Do I give loving service to those inside and outside my family circle?
• Am I involved with parish activities as much as I could be?

We look forward to sharing with you this time of spiritual growth in the life of your child.

The Church teaches that parents are the first and foremost teachers of faith for their children. As your child journeys through the process of preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation, there are opportunities for you to guide, accompany, and learn from him or her.

• Talk with your child about the faith content he or she is learning in religion class. Learn something new yourself!
• Encourage your child in their practice of personal daily prayer and the use of the Confirmation journal.
• Witness to your own faith in your daily words and actions.
• Pray with your children. Include in your family prayers those who are in need around the world.
• Participate in the faith-sharing component of the preparation process, using the “Candidate/Sponsor Sheets” provided for sponsors. These faith-sharing conversations offer a wonderful opportunity for parents to lead their children to love and serve God in daily life.
• Guide your child’s choice of a Confirmation name and a faith-filled sponsor.
• Support (and join) your son or daughter in planning and performing Christian service. For example, volunteer as a family to serve at a hot-meals center or to clean the home of an elderly person.
• Attend Sunday liturgy. Invite a friend or relative who does not participate in Mass to go to church and breakfast with you.
• Help out at a parish social function or participate in it.
• Support a parishioner, neighbor or friend who needs encouragement, sympathy, or material help.
• Decide how you can strengthen your bond with the parish community and commitment to the mission of the Church. Take action to do so.
• Consider how you can grow as a Christian: For what do you need to be forgiven? What virtue can you ask God to help you develop?

Sincerely in Christ,
The Youth Ministry Office

What is Confirmation?

• A Sacrament of Initiation that strengthens one’s relationship with the Church and commitment to being an active member.
• Through this sacrament, the Holy Spirit and his gifts help us to live our baptismal promises, grow into the likeness of Christ, and share his mission.
• The preparation process for Confirmation offers an opportunity to deepen one’s commitment to a specific way of life – as a follower of Jesus.

Confirmation is one of the three Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist). For those who were baptized as infants and received First Communion as little children, the celebration of Confirmation as a young adult presents a very special opportunity to affirm the decision made by their parents and godparents on their behalf.

Confirmation it is not a graduation from religious studies or a celebration of Catholic adulthood. It is a “Rite of Passage”, into life as a fully initiated and accountable member of the Church. In most of our communities there are two primary rites of passage for teens: 1) getting a driver’s license and 2) voting. After completing these processes teens venture further out into the world, reaching for new ways to share their energy and make their voices heard. Confirmation is very similar!

As our young people prepare for Confirmation, our entire community will support them in prayer and action as they deepen their understanding of the fundamental beliefs of our Faith and broaden their participation in the life of the community.

The Church’s vision of Confirmation includes Word, Worship, Community and Service. The Word of God is the Scripture, the history of God’s loving relationship with our ancestors in the faith. Our Worship is our prayers of praise and thanksgiving to God our Father, through Jesus Christ, by the power of the Holy Spirit, most especially in the Eucharistic liturgy. Participation in the community’s Sunday celebration is a powerful act of belonging and nourishing oneself. And after we have celebrated we go forth to love and serve one another and those beyond our own community, just as Jesus commanded his first disciples.

With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, our Confirmation candidates will live a life dedicated to spreading God’s love and helping to build God’s dream for our world.

http://www.faithhope.org/FormationEducation/Sacraments/Confirmation.htm

NCYC Permission Form:

--Please Print off this copy and turn it in at the Youth Ministry Office (6401 Gages Lake Road, Gurnee, Il 60031) by August 15th 2007--

National Catholic Youth Conference/2007
YMO Youth Permission & Parental/Guardian Authorization
Archdiocese of Chicago Youth Ministry Office
Nov. 8 – 10, 2007

Columbus, OH

I hereby give permission for my son/daughter______________________________(name)
to participate in the National Catholic Youth Conference to take place at Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, OH from November 8 – 10th, 2007, and all travel included to attend this conference.

I HEREBY RELEASE AND INDEMNIFY THE CATHOLIC BISHOP OF CHICAGO, A CORPORATION SOLE, THE YOUTH MINISTRY OFFICE, it's staff and volunteers;
_________________________________(Parish/School name)
it’s staff and volunteers from any and all liability arising from claims of any kind or nature whatsoever from my teen's participation in this event.
I UNDERSTAND that if my son/daughter violates any laws regarding possession of alcohol or drugs, or rules governing the event, arrangements will be made to immediately send my teen
home at the cost of the parents/guardian.
IN THE EVENT THAT THE UNDERSIGNED CANNOT BE REACHED AND IN THE JUDGMENT OF THE RESPONSIBLE ADULT AT THIS EVENT or other staff member, there is a necessity for immediate examination and/or treatment of my teen, I HEREBY AUTHORIZE ANY OF THE AFORESAID PERSONNEL TO OBTAIN FOR MY TEEN, SUCH MEDICAL SERVICES AS ARE DEEMED NECESSARY.

***I GRANT PERMISSION for the adult chaperons for this event to administer non-prescription drugs as needed for my teen i.e., aspirin, ibuprofen, antacids, etc.) YES_____ NO_____

***I AUTHORIZE the Youth Ministry Office of the Archdiocese of Chicago to use photographs/videos of my teen for productions, publications, etc. _____Yes _____NO

PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE:________________________________________
TELEPHONE #(H)_________________(Cell #)_________________DATE:________
EMERGENCY _________________________________PHONE:__________________
CONTACT'S RELATIONSHIP TO CHILD:____________________________________

****PLEASE LIST any ALLERGIES, MEDICATIONS, MEDICAL PROBLEMS,

PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES/LIMITATIONS that your teen CANNOT take part in
AND/OR any other important information.
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________

CURRENT MEDICATION:______________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________

PHYSICIAN INFORMATION:
Name of Physician__________________________Phone:________________
Address_____________________City__________State:_____Zip:______


INSURANCE INFORMATION:
Policy in the Name of:_____________________________________________
Insurance Company:______________________________________________
Policy number:__________________________________________________
Identification and/or Social Security Number:______________________________

NCYC Information

National Catholic Youth Conference

Where & When?
2007 Location: Columbus, Ohio
Dates: November 8th-11th 2007

Application Form Due Date:
August 15th, 2007!

General Information:
Click HERE

Fundraising Opportunities:

CAR WASH:

Date: Saturday, June 28th, 2007
Time: 9am-12pm

CHILI COOK-OFF:

Date: October 13th, 2007
Time: 6:45pm (right after the Sat. 5pm Mass)-9pm

BAKE SALE:

Date: TBA
Time: TBA

Confirmation Registration Form

St. Paul the Apostle Church

6401 Gages Lake Road

Gurnee, Il 60031

Youth Ministry Office

Please copy and paste this entire form, print it off & fill it out. After you are done filling out the form, please turn it into the Youth Ministry Office. The information on this form will be used to complete the sacramental record in the parish register. Please provide all requested information accurately. For candidates who were baptized or received First Communion at another parish, please submit a copy of those certificates with this registration form. (If you can’t find copies at home, contact the parish office of the church of Baptism/First Communion.)

Candidate's Full Name: _____________________________________
(Last), (Middle), (First)
Address: _________________________________________
(Street), (City), (State), (Zip)
Home Phone Number: _______________________
Parent Email Address: _______________________________
Father's Name: _____________________________________
(Last) , (First)
Mother's Name: _____________________________________
(Last) , (Maiden), (First)


Candidate's Baptismal Information:
Date of Baptism: ______________________
Church Name: _______________________
Location of Church of First Communion: ____________________
(City), (State)
(If candidate did NOT receive First Communion at St. Paul the Apostle Church (Gurnee, IL), please attach/send a copy of certificate with this form)

Sponsor Information:
Sponsor's Name: ____________________________________
(Last) (Middle) (First)
Sponsor's Address: ___________________________________________
(Street) (City) (State)
Sponsor's Email Address: ______________________________
Sponsor's Relationship to the Candidate: _________________

The candidate should write a paragraph below discussing why he/she choose this sponsor:
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_________________________________________________
_______________________________________________

Liturgy Time:

please state your preference of Confirmation time:

---TBA---

Mission Information

And so we gather and welcome each other in friendship and worship, we realize that our mission is to further the work of Christ and to help those in need. We must find out how to share. This sharing means that we must build a close relationship with Christ and with each other.
In order to build this relationship which is the basis of community, there are certain things that we must learn—certain things that we need to be comfortable with. The disciples of Jesus also experienced this problem. They had followed Jesus for years. An still they did not see;they did not understand. You know it is strange how we can look at something for years and still not see what it is that we are looking at. The disciples looked at Jesus and did not see the Son of God. They had to wait until they were filled with the Spirit before they truly understood. The spirit came flooding into their souls and they began to see the Light. Jesus was the son of God and they were expected to do something about it. We have the same challenge. We must carry this challenge with us wherever we go.
We must realize that our mission is to share the work of Christ. This sharing means that we must build a close relationship with God and with each other. When He needs someone to reach out, we must reach out for Him. When He needs someone to be somewhere for him, it is up to us to volunteer. Our challenge is for each of us to join the community of active believers. We must be rooted in faith and nourished by the Eucharist. We must reach out to others who are less fortunate.
We really can make a difference. it is not enough for us to come to church every Sunday and not let the Jesus who resides in each one of us out. Knowing and loving each other are our most important functions. We must reach out - both inside and outside of our church community - and try to help. Jesus loves each one of us and we must love each other in return. If we do so, we are mirroring the simple and loving life as we have been taught to do.

"Be Everyday Disciples" Information

Soup Kitchens:
The holy family soup kitchen will be held every 2nd Thursday of every month, at 4:15pm-7pm. Please contact Kathy Rader (847-223-5628) to RSVP by the Tuesday before the event. Make sure you turn in your permission slip beforehand & meet at the church parkinglot at 4:15pm. We will return to the church parkinglot at 7pm. One driver is required for every 5 volunteers, so call early to reserve your spot!

Lectors:
The Lectors Creed: The Lord God Has Given Me A Well-Trained Tongue That I Might Know How To Speak To the Weary A Word that Will Rouse Them
St. Paul’s has implimented the new instructions per the revised General Instruction of the Roman Missal. Changes for lectors are minor and consist of how the Book of Gospels and the Lectionary are utilized.

New instructions for the lectors are effective the weekend of October 26th. These changes are as follows:
New Instructions for Lectors:
1. If a deacon is present, the deacon carries the Book of the Gospels (not the Lectionary) in the entrance procession. He walks immediately ahead of the priest. Arriving at the altar, he bows with the priest and other ministers, and then places the Book of the Gospels flat at the rear center of the altar. Both lectors walk in procession with the other minsters, but without a book.
2. If no deacon is present, the lector (first reader) carries the Book of the Gospels, walking immediately ahead of the priest. Arriving at the altar, he or she bows with the priest and the other ministers, and then places the Book of the Gospels flat at the rear center of the altar. The Second Reader processes in also.
3. The Book of the Gospels is NOT carried out in the procession at the end of Mass. Both lectors walk in the procession with the other ministers, but without the book.
4. The Lectionary is never carried in procession.
5. Before Mass begins, the lector (second reader) should check to make sure the lectionary is on the ambo, opened to the proper page.
6. When the second reading is finished, the lector will close the book and place it on the shelf in the ambo. (The priest or deacon will read the gospel from the Book of the Gospels.)
7. At the ambo, lectors should always read from the lectionary, NEVER from the paperback Workbook for Lectors. At the end of the reading say, “The Word of the Lord” The Lectionary may state otherwise. However the correct ending is “The Word of the Lord”
8. If no deacon is present, the lector (first reader), at the end of the Creed, should go immediately to the ambo for the prayers of the faithful so that he/she is there when the priest reads the introductory prayer. The lector should remain at the ambo until the priest finishes the concluding prayer.
Other responsibilities of the first and second readers remain essentially the same:
First Reader:....Processes in with the ministers.... Reads the First Reading.Reads the Petitions if the Deacon in not present.... Processes out with the minister.
Second Reader:...Reads the introductory prayer.... Processes in with the ministers.... Reads the Second Reading.... Processes out with the ministers.

Should you have any questions, please contact me at 847-223-1121 or e-mail Bob_Russell@comcast.net.

Eucharistic Ministry:
Position Title: Eucharistic Minister
Reports To: The Lord

Position Overview: Under the general supervision of The Lord, serves the body or blood at Mass on Saturday or Sunday which is the Lamb of God (Jesus).

Responsibilities And Duties:
1. Receive the Host and Wine
a. Join the Priest and other Eucharistic Ministers at the Alter to receive the Body
and Blood prior to distribution to the parishioners

2. Serve the Host/Bread
a. Serve the Body of Christ to the parishioners
b. Hold bread and say “Body of Christ”
c. Continue this until all parishioners have received the bread

3. Serve the Wine/Blood
a. Serve the Blood of Christ to the parishioners
b. Hold the cup and say “Blood of Christ”
c. Continue this until all parishioners have received the wine

4. Help Set up/Clean up
a. Check in by signing in
b. Bring the cups and bowls to the alter at the beginning of mass
c. return the cups and bowls at the end of mass and wash in preparation for the
next mass
d. Return blessed hosts to tabernacle

5. Training
a. Attend Eucharistic Minister training

6. Serve the Lord Lovingly
a. It is an honor to serve the body and blood of Christ to fellow parishioners