Summer Catechetical Program Begins May 5

Stick around after Sunday Mass this summer to unfold the scriptural references that provide the basis for our Catholic faith. The Summer Catechetical Program will use beautiful images to illustrate theological points and add context to the scripture. The program begins May 5 following the 10:30 a.m. Mass and will conclude August 25. All are welcome to join!

The program consists of four topical sections:

• The Fullness of Life and Its Expectations: Resurrection, Ascension, Holy Spirit and the Trinity
• God Dwelling Amidst Humanity, Us: Signs of Salvation
• Humanities, Our Response to God: Symbols of New Life
• The Coming Kingdom: The Spirit and Mystery of Sacrament

For the complete list of topics for each Sunday, please take a look at the program brochure. We hope to see you at some or all of the sessions!

Register Now for the Summer 'Totus Tuus' Youth Program

Totus Tuus (pronounced “tow-tus too-us”), a Latin phrase  meaning “totally yours,” was the motto of the late, great Pope John Paul II. It's also the name of a week-long summer program for children and teens whereby seminarians and college students proclaim the Gospel through catechetical instruction, Mass, the sacraments, skits and games, and St. Mary of Perpetual Help is proud to host it this July.

Know someone in grades 1-12 who might be interested in taking some time out for faith and fun this summer? Children in grades 1-6 can join us from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday, July 15 through Friday, July 19 at a cost of $25 per child. Grades 7-12 will meet from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, July 14 through Thursday, July 18 at a cost of $15 per teen. Take a look at this flyer for more information, then fill out the registration form.

Want to help out? We're looking for adults to hosting two team members in their homes for the week. We're also looking for those who can have the team over for dinner, provide lunch for the team members or help during the sessions. If you are interested, please check the “contact me” box on the registration form linked above or fill out the volunteer form, which includes more details.

Monday Evening Scripture Study

Please join us for scripture study on Monday evenings throughout the Easter Season, through Pentecost and into Ordinary Time. We will focus on the themes of glorification and healing in the Resurrection narratives. We'll meet after the 6 p.m. Mass in the Lourdes Hall first-floor conference room.

Our Parish to Host 'Fostering Faith' Courses

This spring, summer, and autumn, St. Mary of Perpetual Help will host courses offered by the Archdiocese of Chicago's Office for Catechesis and Youth Ministry. As a Fostering Faith formation site, the parish will welcome those seeking catechist certification and anyone else wishing to expand their knowledge and deepen their faith.

Courses begin May 1 and run through the rest of spring and summer, ending in October. There are five courses in Fostering Faith Catechist Certification, each consisting of one night class a week for four weeks.

For details and contact information, see the full schedule. For more information about the program and what you can expect from the courses, see the Office for Catechesis and Youth Ministry site request form (please note: you do not need to fill out the site request form to participate).

Pilgrimage to the Shrines of France

Join us for a Pilgrimage to the Shrines of France

Father Thomas Aschenbrener, Chaplain
Celebrating the Year of Faith and
Father’s 10th Ordination Anniversary



September 30 – October 11, 2013
$3,700 ($3,130 plus airline taxes and fees of $670) from Chicago
For inquiries, please go to: www.rmeurotours.com or write to rmeurotours@gmail.com