Come and join the Social Justice Team to help promote change. The Social Justice Team is committed to the awareness and action of Catholic Social Teaching.
The group meets the first Thursday of each month (September-May) at 4:00 at the Parish Center.
For more information, please contact Christy in the Faith Formation Office.
Pressed for time, but still looking for spiritual encouragement? Come join us as we study Job: A Good Man Asks Why. The book of Job helps us work through one of the most difficult questions that confronts us in life: Why do bad things happen to good people?
Wednesdays, 12:30-2 pm
Sept. 11, 25, Oct. 9, 23, Nov. 6, 20
Parish Center
Stop by the Parish office to register and purchase a book.
Books cost $9.00.
Questions: Call Kathy Doering- 839-9273, Carmen Gray-832-4164
The book of Job helps us work through one of the most difficult questions that confronts us in life: Why do bad things happen to good people? In Job: A Good Man Asks Why, author Kevin Perrotta walks us through the key points in the book of Job and helps us understand suffering, justice, and love in a new light.
| Date: | August 25, 2024 |
| Time: | Shotgun Start @ 1:00 pm |
| Place: | Currie Golf Course 1300 Currie Pkwy Midland, MI 48640 |
| Fee: | $300.00 per team (includes: cart & catered dinner) |
Payment is due no later than August 19, 2024. Register below. Click here to pay online.
Format: The tournament will be played in a four-person scramble format.
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Blessed Sacrament Parish
Pastoral Council Minutes
March 6, 2024
Attendees: Corrine Cathcart, Annette Clark, Christy Granda, Fr. Rob Howe, Jim Mahoney, Jeff Paulus, Patrick Regier, Cathy Richard, and Barb Warczinsky
Recent events included
Theology by the Glass has been changed to Jesus and Java. Meeting times will be twice a month. Mornings at Cultivate Coffee in the Mall and evenings at Stranded Yarn and Coffee on the Circle.
Ongoing events include
Upcoming events:
See attached document for a complete overview from Corrine Cathcart regarding the Elementary, Sacramental Prep, Middle School, and High School Ministries as well as Family Fun events.
The parish Net Assets increased by $167K through February 2024.
Our weekend collections have rebounded since December and we closed the gap vs our plan. Actually, through February our Weekend Collections is better than Budget by $9. In March we continue to track higher than budget. Our Total YTD Expenses were better than Budget across most categories. In addition, our tuition assistance payments to St. Brigid were lower by 4K due to fewer families enrolling children in their school. (12 students enrolled vs 16 students budgeted).
Grant payments totaling $125K were paid to nonprofit programs/organizations supported by Christian Service funding.
There were 38 participants in the Men’s Christ Renews program presented earlier this month. There were several younger men who attended.
The Outreach Team paired with the Emmaus House for a project and the Riverside project is coming up.
Blessed Sacrament Parish
Joint Pastoral and Finance Councils Meeting Minutes
December 13, 2023
Attendees: Cathy Ahearn, Corinne Cathcart, Annette Clark, Dick Dolinski, Kathy Fothergill, Judy Gross, Fr. Rob Howe, Andy Pasztor, Jeff Paulus, Patrick Regier, Cathy Richard, Kristyn Russel, Barb Warczinsky
Corinne provided an update of the Elementary, Middle School, and High School programs as outlined in the attachment (“Faith Formation”). Some highlights of the Elementary program include that 50 families with 72 youth are participating in the new Family-Centered faith formation program. At the last class of the year, the group made birthday kits that were donated to the Food Pantry. “St. Nicholas” also paid a visit, passed out candy canes, and answered questions. Among the questions, he replied that his favorite color is blue, and when asked how old he is, he answered, “very!”
Seven children celebrated First Reconciliation on December 2 and are looking forward to First Eucharist in May.
Corinne provided an update of the Middle School program as outlined in the handout. The current enrollment is 39 youth. The group baked pies for Thanksgiving baskets and volunteered as Salvation Army bell ringers. The joint (with Assumption Parish) Confirmation program will begin in January
Kathy Russell and Corinne Cathcart have been running the Sunday night small faith groups with an enrollment of 18 youth. The Outreach trip to Knoxville currently has 4 registered for the trip but 10 have been attending the program. Dave Pasek is overseeing the program and Melissa Kato will be going on the trip. A total of 12 youth are enrolled in the Youth 2 Youth Retreat that is run by Kathy and Kristyn Russell.
The Advent event (entire parish) had a good turnout. Twenty new wreaths were made and cookies, various crafts, and decorating Christmas cards for parish seniors rounded out the event.
Kristyn provided a comprehensive summary report of the metrics of the several communications approaches used by the parish. We primarily use 6 different communication channels: Facebook, Flickr, Flocknote, Instagram, the Parish Website, and YouTube. The statistical usage metrics provided in the slides for each of these are quite favorable relative to peer organizations.
Kristyn also provided a summary of the 2023 Synod update. Three listening sessions were held in March 2023 in response to the working document “Enlarge the space of your tent” Working Document for the Continental Stage. Participants were asked to reflect on the following questions: Where do you think the Church has been welcoming and hospitable? Where do you think the Church can improve being welcoming and hospitable? We had 44 participants ranging in age from 10-90.
Kristyn also reported that 9 youth who participate in the youth ministry program attended the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis November 16-19. They had an amazing time. One student shared his experience in a witness talk at XLT and adoration on December 4.
Net assets increased by $63,000 through the end of November despite lower weekend collections that are down $47,000 versus budget. However, expenses are lower than budget by $67,000 largely as a result of having two open job positions (High School Youth Ministry and Maintenance).
The combined Mass attendance (October count) for all three Masses was 1,017, up 26% versus October 2022 but still down 14% versus pre-COVID figures of 2019. Blessed Sacrament continues to have the highest Mass attendance in the Diocese. The total Diocese count was up 5.1% versus last year. Combined Mass attendance for the entire Midland Area Catholic Community (MACC) was 2,427, up 10% versus last year’s count of 2,208. Each sister parish experienced an increase except Assumption.
A walkthrough of the church and parish facilities by the assets team identified no major maintenance issues. Some minor improvements completed are installing shut off valves to the former school building at a cost of $8,000
The parish continues to work with the city regarding playground replacement. A property survey has been completed. We’re working with the city and the Diocese to prepare the appropriate legal documents and applications. They are planned to be completed in late January/early February of next year. We currently have received or have pledged a total of $22,000 in grants to help offset the costs associated with the playground project with a potential additional amount of ~$20,000 still pending.
Patrick—We continue to look for a maintenance person as well as for someone to lead the youth ministry program. Please let us know if you have any recommendations.
Barb—expressed her appreciation and thanks to all involved in the education program.
Annette—summarized several Outreach activities
Cathy—The OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults—formerly RCIA) program is going well with a fairly large group of 7 (4 adults; 3 youth). There has been a request to keep the Kentwood access entrance open during funerals. It normally is but was inadvertently closed during a recent funeral.
Kristyn—announced that “Exam Snack Packs” of treats will again be made available to the youth of the parish about to embark on their final exams near the end of the year.
Corinne—reminded everyone to stop to view and appreciate the artwork displayed around the parish center that has been prepared by students in our programs.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:19.
The next meeting of the Pastoral Council is scheduled for March 6, 2024
Attendees: Fr. Rob Howe, Patrick Regier, Pam Gandy, Andy Pasztor, Joe Dostal, Dennis Thiel, Judy Gross, Kathy Fothergill
Reported by: Fothergill
Pat announced his upcoming retirement and Fr. Rob said there are two candidates applying for Patrick’s job. Fr. Rob also announced that the playground has been transferred to the city, which is in talks with playground designers. We received some grants that reduced our outlay for transitioning the playground to the city. Separately, the Diocese has set a high assessment for this year’s Christ Mission Appeal.
Financial Results as of April 30, 2024: Net Assets for the current fiscal year (which began July 1) increased by $220K as YTD total revenue exceeded expenses. Higher Weekend Collections far exceeded our expenses. Total expenses were down versus Budget, primarily due to lower employee-related expenses. We have filled the Maintenance worker position. We also filled the high school Youth Coordinator position by expanding Melissa Kato’s role (she currently works with RCIA and Young Adult programs). Lay ministers will take over working with Baptisms. YTD Weekend Collections through April were higher than Budget by $35K. Christian Service balance for the current year to date reflects claims for emergency assistance.
We will use the current year budget as the basis for planning the upcoming fiscal year budget.
Patrick reviewed details of the upcoming budget. Compared with Current Year Budget, Proposed Budget assumes Weekend Collections flat with Current Year Budget and Interest Income slightly higher than last year. Excluding Major Expenditures, Total Expenses for the Proposed Budget are roughly in line with Current Year Budget. Major Expenditures for the Proposed Budget are expected to be significantly lower than Current Year Budget, which includes expenses related to the playground replacement project. The timing of the playground transition may shift the final Current Year Budget and Proposed Budget.
The Proposed Budget proposal was unanimously accepted by the Council members.
In April, we purchased new audio equipment for the church, which will be installed in June. The new technology will be Bluetooth compatible. We have finalized the playground donation / replacement agreement with the City on May 4. We received $22K in donations from the community to offset a portion of the cost of that donation. The City will send us conceptual designs of the new playground structures.
An Internal Control Review was conducted by the Diocese and an outside CPA firm (Marner CPA) on
May 7. The review is routine, and reviews are being done across all parishes. The reviewers spent a day with Pat Lautner (bookkeeper) and Patrick on reviewing invoices and reviewing procedures. We will get a report after a follow-up meeting on May 21, which Pam, Fr. Rob and Patrick will attend. When issued, the report will be shared with the Finance Council.
Andy made two suggestions for minor interior changes in the church. He noted that the area near the font is relatively dark, and could benefit from improved lighting. Also, he suggested that the collection baskets be raised higher so parishioners don’t have to bend over to add their contributions.
There will be a joint meeting of the Pastoral Council and the Finance Council on June 12th @ 6:30 pm.
Meeting adjourned at 7:45p.m.
This past weekend, we hosted our much-anticipated annual Taste of Summer bike ride, and it was a fantastic success! About 30 enthusiastic participants joined us for a delightful day filled with biking, delicious food, and great company. All food donations will go to the Midland County Food Assistance Network.
Our adventure began at the Tridge, a favorite local landmark known for its picturesque views and three-way wooden footbridge. From there, we embarked on a scenic 3-mile bike ride, enjoying the beautiful summer weather and the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. Even the youngest participants had fun making their way down the Rail Trail!
Our destination was Cottage Creamery, where a world of summer treats awaited us. Participants had their choice of indulging in creamy, delicious ice cream from Cottage Creamery or savoring the smoky flavors of barbeque paired with refreshing beer from Midland Brewing Company. All the ice cream, both in a cone or dish, was delicious! 100% of ice cream eaters recommend. Fr. Rob recommends the OPE! Michigan Hopped IPA, the Glomski’s recommend the pulled pork nachos, and Kristyn enjoyed the refreshing Three Mile Marker Hefeweizen from Midland Brewing. Whether you opted for a sweet or savory treat, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
The event was more than just a bike ride; it was a celebration of our parish community for our parish feast day. It was wonderful to see both familiar faces and new ones, all coming together to share in the experience. The Body of Christ was on the move in downtown Midland!
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us for this year’s Taste of Summer. Your participation and enthusiasm are what make events like this so memorable. We look forward to many more rides and gatherings in the future. Until then, keep biking and enjoying the tastes of summer!
Mark your calendars for June 22, 2025, for our next Taste of Summer bike ride. Happy summer to all!
President Eileen Foster opened the meeting by welcoming the 30 ladies in attendance. We welcomed first-timer Teresa Chisholm to our group. Prior to the business meeting, everyone enjoyed 15 minutes of snacks and conversation. Snacks were provided by Aimee Kopiwoda, Judy Greene, Dorothy Kociba, and Carol Osier. Connie Latuszek and Dorothy Kociba set up the refreshment table.
Happy April birthday to Sue Gibson (04/08), Maria Quereizaeta (04/10), Chris Sharp (04/20), Eileen Foster (04/23), Mary Stutelberg (04/23), Joyce Cushman (04/28), Fran Davis (04/30), and Jan Morrone (04/30).
Copies of the minutes of our March meeting were placed on all the tables for everyone to read. The minutes were previously posted to our parish website and to our FaceBook page. Secretary Elaine White announced again her resignation effective June 2024 ending six years in that role. Elaine asked everyone to consider volunteering to be the next secretary and becoming a member of the Ladies of Blessed Sacrament board. It’s a volunteer job so no need to commit for years. Try it out to see if this position would work for you. We’ll have an election in November for the secretary position. In November 2025 we’ll vote for a new president and in November 2026 we’ll vote for a new treasurer. The board decided that LBS would benefit from new ideas from additional people.
Judy Kawiecki than introduced our guest speaker Beth DeVries, founder and director of Phoenix Community Farm (PCF). The mission of PCF is to meet the basic need for fresh, healthy produce. PCF grows and shares produce on their one acre farm located at 919 Smith Rd, the site of Windover High School. This non-profit was formed in 2019 and operates with three paid positions and lots of volunteers. Phoenix Community Farm produced and donated over 29,000 pounds of produce in 2023. They also educate the public about growing, harvesting, preparing, and preserving vegetables. For further information and/or to volunteer, please go to their website at phoenixcommunityfarm.com or call 989-875-9451. Judy Kawiecki then presented our speaker a check from LBS and also various gardening tools that were donated by the ladies.
Ramona Lalka then gave an update on our Tuesday, May 7th annual spring potluck lunch. All are welcome, bring a friend. More volunteers are still needed for our annual rummage sale to be held June 2nd through June 8th. Items can be dropped off on Sunday and Monday, Tuesday is reserved for sorting and pricing, Sale days are Wednesday and Thursday. Friday is half price and bag day. Please come and volunteer for any length of time. Lunch for all workers will be served each day.
Treasurer Tana Zemanek reported our current balance is $9377.95 as of the end of March. Anne Boyd then led us in a closing prayer and a bonding exercise where each person was asked to give their greatest strength. Please join us at our Spring Lunch on Tuesday, May 7th.
Respectfully submitted,
Elaine White, Secretary
President Eileen Foster opened the meeting by welcoming the 29 ladies in attendance. Prior to the meeting, everyone enjoyed 15 minutes of snacks and conversation. Snacks were provided by Joanne Tanner, Sue Gibson, Linda Wilson, and Gail Schroeder. Dorothy Kociba and Connie Latuszek set up the refreshment table. Ladies were asked for prayer requests and then an opening prayer was said.
Ramona Lalka passed around a sign-up sheet for April refreshments. Ramona then thanked everyone who brought paper products and personal care items for Emmaus House in Saginaw. She reminded everyone that our annual spring potluck lunch will be Tuesday, May 7th at noon in the social hall. Mark your calendar now and please plan to bring a guest. Ramona also gave us an update on our annual rummage sale to be held 5th June through 7th June. A sign-up sheet was passed around for rummage sale workers. Items for the rummage sale can be dropped off starting Sunday June 2nd at noon.
Happy March birthday to Tana Zemanek (03/01), Char McDermott (03/15), Sharon Capriccioso (03/17), Linda Graf, Dorothy Kociba, Elaine Warakomski (all 03/22), and Rose Mikols (03/27).
Copies of the minutes of our February meeting were placed on all the tables for the ladies to read. Secretary Elaine White announced she will resign as secretary effective June 2024 ending six years in that role. Anyone interested in becoming the next LBS secretary, please contact President Eileen Foster.
Elaine White then introduced our speaker, Shannon Forshee, director of Camp Fish Tales. Camp Fish Tales is an outdoor, week long, barrier free 67 acre camp in northern Bay County. This camp provides individuals of all ages and all disabilities with opportunities to gain independence, friendship, and life-long skills. To register for summer 2024 camp sessions, go to www.campfishtales.org or call 989-879-5199. Campers swim, boat, and fish every day and get a chance to participate in many other activities. Camp Fish Tales is also in need of camp volunteers ages 18+.
Linda Graf then gave an update on our funeral luncheons. New cloth tablecloths have been purchased. Perfect Potluck is used to recruit workers and to solicit food donations. Linda said we need more women to serve as leaders. Training will be provided by our current leaders. Contact Linda Graf for more info.
Treasurer Tana Zemanek reported our current balance as of the end of February is $8927.95. Tana has a complete list of income and expenses for anyone to view.
Anne Boyd encouraged women to sign-up for Christ Renews to be held April 13th and 14th. This weekend is given for women by women. You can register online at www.blessed-midland.org Wendy Shields asked that we encourage any high school youths to sign up for Youth 2 Youth weekend on April 20th-21st. This is a weekend of self-discovery, faith, and connection with others.
Please join us at our next meeting on Tuesday, April 2nd at 1:15 pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Elaine White, Secretary
