Within a few days Pope Francis will convene the Synod on Synodality in Rome. A Synod is a gathering in which reflection and discussion takes place concerning issues of immediate concern to the life of the Church. In the aftermath of Vatican II, the practice of the pope calling a synod on a regular basis began. Bishops from around the world were asked to send representatives to participate in the synod. The synod normally lasted about three weeks and concluded with recommendations to the Pope. Some time after the end of the Synod, the Pope would issue a teaching on the theme of the … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – October 1, 2023
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-1-2023
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 MONEY COUNTERS NEEDED: We are looking for two volunteers to join the collection money counters. You would count the weekend collections after the Sunday 10:15 AM Mass, twice each month. Training will be provided. If you are interested in this volunteer opportunity, call the parish office at 651-224-9793. LIBRARY MINISTRY: We are in the process of organizing a parish library. This library will be in the SE corner of the church. We have a large number of books that are being cataloged and prepared to go onto the shelves which are being donated. … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-1-2023
Parish Administrator’s Note – October 1, 2023
PRESERVING OUR PATRIMONY And what does patrimony refer to, you ask? In church talk, patrimony refers to two categories: • Temporal matters: our collective ownership of material things, such as buildings; and • Spiritual matters: the charism, legacy and identity of our parish. I heard all this from Susan Mulheron, Chancellor for Canonical Affairs in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. As Chancellor, she’s Archbishop Hebda’s go-to person when it comes to church law. She recently spoke on patrimony to parish administrators. Church law—canon law—is the legal code of the Roman … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – October 1, 2023
News and Events September 24, 2023
BLOOD PRESSURE CHECK As we return to pre pandemic normalcy, we will again offer blood pressure checks after Masses on the third weekend of the month. The next blood pressure check will take place the weekend of October 14 and 15. ST. MATTHEW MEN’S CLUB The next Men’s Club meeting is Wednesday, October 11 at 8:00 PM in the Social Hall. All men of the parish are welcome to come to the meeting and check out what the group is all about! The St. Matthew Men’s Club is active in hosting, organizing and volunteering at various events throughout the year for the parish. The group meets every … [Read more...] about News and Events September 24, 2023
Faith Formation News 9-24-2023
FAITH FORMATION, FIRST COMMUNION, CONFIRMATION CLASSES ARE OPEN: Wednesday evening Faith Formation classes have begun for public school students, and registration is open for a few more weeks. Download the registration form from www.st-matts.org/faith-formation/ or complete a hard copy registration form when you bring your students to class on Wednesday, September 27. Students in grades K to 5 begin class at 6:30 PM and students in grades 6 to 10 begin class at 6:45 PM. Attendance at these classes is required for public school students who would like to make their First Communion or … [Read more...] about Faith Formation News 9-24-2023
Boy Scout Troop 288 News, 9-24-2023: First year free or discounted; wreath and popcorn sale
JOIN BOY SCOUT TROOP 288 Boy Scout Troop 288, chartered by the Community of Saints Regional Catholic School (COS), has some spots available to join the Troop. The FIRST 2 boys, age 10 or in the 5th grade and above who sign up will have their registration fee, a $205.00 value, paid for the first year. The NEXT 4 boys, age 10 or in the 5th grade and above who sign up will have half of the registration fee, a $105.00 value, paid for the first year. There will be fundraisers available to help pay for the second year. For more information, contact the Scoutmaster Simon Haeg: … [Read more...] about Boy Scout Troop 288 News, 9-24-2023: First year free or discounted; wreath and popcorn sale
Reflection from Father Steve – September 24, 2023
Today, Sunday, September 24, is the holiest day of the year for our Jewish neighbors. The time of repentance, begun on September 15 culminates today, the Feast of Yom Kippur, beginning at sundown on Sunday evening. On the day before Yom Kippur, a special and bountiful meal is enjoyed with candle lighting at the end of the meal. Many people remember those who have gone before them. Some Jewish people visit cemeteries on this day before Yom Kippur. Jewish congregations spend the eve of Yom Kippur and the entire day in prayer and meditation. Friends also ask and accept forgiveness from one … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – September 24, 2023
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-24-2023
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 FAITH FORMATION TEACHERS: The St. Matthew Faith Formation program for public school students in grades 1 to 10 will resume September 20, and we have openings for teachers for the 2023-2024 school year. Classes are held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:45 PM between September and early May. Volunteers should enjoy helping children learn more about their Catholic faith and do not need to be experienced teachers. Training and support are provided, in addition to supplies and curriculum that includes a lesson plan for each week. If a weekly … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-24-2023
Parish Administrator’s Note – September 24, 2023
BAPTISM & TOGETHERNESS A couple of weeks ago, Fr. Steve’s homily noted that “Liturgy holds us together.” Indeed! I saw a lot of togetherness at last Sunday’s 10:15 Mass, when our community witnessed the baptism of Isaac Adrian Czaia, son of Zach and Cristina. In addition to our regular 10:15 Mass goers, many of Zach and Cristina’s friends and family members joined us. Baptisms do have a way of bringing people together. QUINCEAÑERA TOGETHERNESS Last weekend, I also attended a Quinceañera (Quince for short) Mass here at St. Matt’s. It was good to meet the many friends and family members … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – September 24, 2023
Parish Administrator’s Note – September 17, 2023
UNITY, LIBERTY, LOVE In a recent homily, Fr. Steve quoted St. Augustine: “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; and in all things, love.” That quote really caught my attention. It’s memorable. I first saw it many years ago. My daughter Bea was playing in a piano recital at a Moravian church, where the quote was on the wall. I’ve marveled ever since at St. Augustine’s pithy wisdom. Too often these days, people confuse essentials with non-essentials. Even more often, they lack love in their comments. I ran into that lack in some of my previous administrative positions, and it was … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – September 17, 2023
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-17-2023
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 FAITH FORMATION TEACHERS NEEDED: The St. Matthew Faith Formation program for public school students in grades 1 to 10 will resume September 20, and we have openings for teachers for the 2023-2024 school year. Classes are held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:45 PM between September and early May. To find out more, call or text Janelle Rohr, 651-242-6004 or send an email to janelle@ st-matts.org. You can also check the insert for more information. BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS: As we continue to return to pre-COVID “normalcy” we would like to again … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-17-2023
Reflection from Father Steve – September 17, 2023
We are immersed in a culture that is individualistic and happiness is seen as immediate self-gratification. Often the current philosophy is: “In this culture there is no such thing as justice or equality; there is no God-reality, the earth is there for me to use and enjoy as I wish. There is only the present moment and nothing more. Truth is what I want it to be; the only reality is the reality I see and experience; meaning is what I desire. I am not my brother’s keeper. I stand alone, I do as I choose — and then it is over.” Occasionally I find Harvey Mackay’s weekly column in the Tribune … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – September 17, 2023
Bingo and Football, Feast of St Matthew, September 23-24, 2023
One great weekend September 23-24: Two family entertainment events! Bingo Saturday, September 23rd - 5:30 p.m. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase at 5:00. Vikings vs. Los Angeles Chargers on the Big Screen Sunday, September 24th - 11:30 a.m. Food is available from the Men’s Club. Bring a dish to share if you can. Refreshments will be provided at no charge. A puzzle contest at half-time. Prizes. Children welcome to participate. St. Matthew’s Social Hall, 510 Hall Avenue, St. Paul. Entrance for events is through door 5 in school parking … [Read more...] about Bingo and Football, Feast of St Matthew, September 23-24, 2023
Rosary Society Meeting, September 12, 2023
All adult women are invited to the next Rosary Society meeting, which will be held Tuesday, September 12, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, in the lower level of the Parish Center. You can park in and enter the lower level from the parking lot. This will be the first meeting of our program year. The focus of this meeting will be getting to know one another, discussing the Fall meeting programs and upcoming Fall activities. You do not need to be a member to attend meetings. Come, enjoy refreshments, socializing with one another and finding out what the Rosary Society is all about. … [Read more...] about Rosary Society Meeting, September 12, 2023
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-10-2023
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS: As we continue to return to pre-COVID “normalcy” we would like to again offer blood pressure checks once a month. As in the past, blood pressure will be checked after Masses on the third weekend of the month. If you are trained and qualified to check blood pressures, and would be willing to offer this service to our parishioners, please contact Mary at or the parish office at 651-224-9793. The parish has all the equipment needed to offer this service. SUPPORT GROUPS: Dealing with the sickness and death … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-10-2023
Parish Administrator’s Note – September 10, 2023
RECAPPING THE LATEST STAFF NEWS . . . (1) Cristina Czaia has been hired as our new Director of Music & Liturgy, effective September 5. She’s replacing Jill Kilzer, who’s retiring October 2. (2) Youth Minister We continue to search for a youth minister to serve our parish and St. Stan’s. (Interviews have begun.) In St. Stan’s case, they’re renewing a successful youth ministry program. In our case, we’re starting a program. I’m helping to recruit and interview youth ministry candidates in partnership with St. Stan’s; I’m also looking for youth group members and for adults interested in … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – September 10, 2023
Reflection from Father Steve – September 10, 2023
We stand on the threshold of a new school year. As a priest, each year of my life’s work has been an involvement in Sundown on Friday, September 15 is a Great Sabbath for our Jewish neighbors and friends; September 15 is not only the Sabbath, it is also Rosh Hashanah (literality “the head of the year” — New Year). It is the first of the High Holidays or ”Days of Awe,” ending 10 days later with Yom Kippur. Rosh Hashanah is a two-day festival that marks the anniversary of human creation — and the special relationship between humans and God, the creator. Rosh Hashanah begins with the sounding … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – September 10, 2023
Strawberry Cleaning Thank You 2023
THANK YOU FOR ANOTHER GREAT YEAR! Thank you to all our dedicated volunteers who gathered in the Social Hall 12 mornings during the State Fair. As we have done for many years, they came to clean strawberries for the Strawberry & Cream booth at the fair. Many parishioners brought their relatives & friends to help. Once again the owners of the booth were ecstatic with the work of our volunteers. During the 12 days of berry cleaning, nearly 11,000 lbs. of berries were cleaned!! We thank the following individuals for their dedication to this project. We took the names from the daily … [Read more...] about Strawberry Cleaning Thank You 2023
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-3-2023
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 STRAWBERRIES: We have finished 11 days of strawberry cleaning! We have one more day, Sunday, September 3 to clean berries. Our parish is cleaning strawberries for the Strawberry & Cream booth at the Minnesota State Fair. We begin cleaning around 8:00 AM and are usually finished about noon. Many of our volunteers look forward to this project and enjoy being together and socializing with fellow parishioners. If you haven’t yet joined us, you have one more day to take part in this fundraising project. Reserve at least one day on your calendar … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-3-2023
St. Stanislaus Fall Festival and Turkey Dinner 9-10-2023
Download flyer: St. Stanislaus Fall Festival and Turkey Dinner 9-10-2023 Church of St. Stanislaus Fall Festival & Turkey Dinner 9-10-2023 Sunday, September 10, 2023 11:00 am-5:00 pm Bingo • Silent Auction• Beer Garden• Games and More! Dinner Served 11:00am-4:00pm Adults – $15 • Children under 12 – $7.00 398 Superior Street, St. Paul www.ststans.org … [Read more...] about St. Stanislaus Fall Festival and Turkey Dinner 9-10-2023
Community of Saints Regional Catholic School News 9-3-2023
COS KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION Community of Saints Regional Catholic School (COS) is still accepting registration for kindergarten students for Fall of 2023. This award winning school offers generous financial assistance thanks to the strong support of St. Matthew’s parish and alums. No family is turned away because of tuition. Additionally, Kindergarten students are considered "New" students and receive a $1,000 tuition credit. For more information, families can schedule a tour by calling 651-457-2510, or email Principal Bridget Kramer at . SUPPORT COMMUNITY OF … [Read more...] about Community of Saints Regional Catholic School News 9-3-2023
Faith Formation News 9-3-2023
FAITH FORMATION, FIRST COMMUNION, CONFIRMATION REGISTRATION NOW OPEN Families with students in grades K-10 attending public schools, please register your children for Wednesday evening Faith Formation classes for the 2023-2024 school year. The registration form is available at www.st-matts.org/faith-formation/ and at the Parish Center front desk. This is also the time to sign up children to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation in winter and spring 2024. Students are prepared for those sacraments during the Wednesday evening classes. Classes run … [Read more...] about Faith Formation News 9-3-2023
Volunteering with Loaves and Fishes
Loaves & Fishes is a nonprofit organization with a mission to serve free, healthy meals to Minnesotans where the need is greatest. We are guided by our vision that all people – regardless of socioeconomic, cultural, religious, or ethnic background – deserve to meet their basic needs for food, dignity, and respect. Our volunteers work with our Site Coordinator to chop fruits/veggies, complete salads, and finish entrees during the Preparation/Package shift. Throughout the Service Shift volunteers pass out meals and greet guests in drive-up or walk-up service. They also assist with keeping … [Read more...] about Volunteering with Loaves and Fishes
News and Events September 3, 2023
BREAKFAST HOSTED BY THE MINUS FAMILY On Sunday, September 10 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the Minus family invites all to breakfast in the Social Hall in remembrance of Arthur Minus. Come join the Minus family to remember Arthur and spend time with other parish members. A free will offering for the Neighborhood House Food Shelf is welcome. ROSARY SOCIETY MEETING All adult women are invited to the next Rosary Society meeting, which will be held Tuesday, September 12, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, in the lower level of the Parish Center. You can park in and enter the lower level from the parking … [Read more...] about News and Events September 3, 2023
Parish Administrator’s Note – September 3, 2023
WELCOME, CRISTINA! In last week’s bulletin, we announced the October retirement of Jill Kilzer, our long-time director of music and liturgy. Thank you, Jill, for your many years of service! This week, I’m happy to announce that we are hiring Cristina Czaia as our new director of music and liturgy. She’ll begin work in September, thus overlapping with Jill for a few weeks. Their work together will greatly help the transition. It’s likely that many of you know Cristina by sight and voice, as she’s been a regular cantor at St. Matt’s for years now. What you might not know is her many other … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – September 3, 2023
Reflection from Father Steve – September 3, 2023
We stand on the threshold of a new school year. As a priest, each year of my life’s work has been an involvement in Tomorrow, September 4th is Labor Day – the last day of the State Fair, the beginning of meteorological Fall, the last day of summer vacation for tomorrow it is back to school. In some ways Labor Day is another New Year’s Day. Those with lake homes bring in the dock and prepare the place for the coming winter season. As a child I remember this time of the year as being the time for the fall house cleaning – time to put the summer clothes away and get the fall clothes out, time … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – September 3, 2023
Community of Saints State of the School Report 2022-23
Download full 8-page report (PDF file): Community-of-Saints-State-of-the-School-2022-23 Mission and Vision We are committed to providing every one of our students a sense of belonging within a community rooted in faith, inclusivity, and love. Together with their families, we create a foundation to achieve excellence by developing their unique God-given talents. From the Principal Dear Community of Saints Members, As I reflect on the conclusion of the 2022-23 school year, I am realizing there is a common theme as to how I feel this time of year–and that is a sense of … [Read more...] about Community of Saints State of the School Report 2022-23
Reflection from Father Steve – August 27, 2023
We stand on the threshold of a new school year. As a priest, each year of my life’s work has been an involvement in school. Schools are, among other things, academies for citizen development. In a free society, that depends on the involvement of the citizenry, an educated, a schooled people are essential. Both private and public education has this as part of its mission. A literate people, able to calculate, able to participate in discussion and debate, and able to reason – these are indispensable tools for democratic life; they are necessary to participate responsibly in civic life. A … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – August 27, 2023
Parish Administrator’s Note – August 27, 2023
THANK YOU, JILL! Jill Kilzer, our music and liturgy director since 2007, is retiring October 2. Many thanks, Jill, for your years of dedicated service to St. Matt’s. And congratulations on your retirement! All the best to you and Bill! Ever since I began work at St. Matt’s in 2021, I’ve been grateful to Jill for her leadership in music and liturgy. Much of that important work is likely invisible to most people, so let me highlight some of what’s involved: Choosing music for all liturgies, including special music at Christmas and Easter Organizing and leading the seasonal choirs at … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – August 27, 2023
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 8-27-2023
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 STRAWBERRIES: We have finished four days of strawberry cleaning! We will continue to clean berries every morning through Sunday, September 3. Our parish is cleaning strawberries for the Strawberry & Cream booth at the Minnesota State Fair. We begin cleaning each day around 8:00 AM and are usually finished about noon. Many of our volunteers look forward to this project and enjoy being together and socializing with fellow parishioners. If you haven’t yet joined us, you have eight more days to take part in this fundraising project. Reserve at … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 8-27-2023
Faith Formation Teachers Needed 2023-2024
The St. Matthew Faith Formation program for public school students in grades 1 to 10 will resume September 20, and we have openings for teachers for the 2023-24 school year. Classes are held on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:45 PM between September and early May. Volunteers should enjoy helping children learn more about their Catholic faith and do not need to be experienced teachers. Training and support are provided, in addition to supplies and curriculum that includes a lesson plan for each week. If a weekly commitment is too much, please consider being a substitute or helping with … [Read more...] about Faith Formation Teachers Needed 2023-2024
News and Events August 20, 2023
NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE DONATIONS This weekend is the monthly Neighborhood House collection. During the month of July 2023, St. Matthew donated 98 pounds of food. Thank you for your generosity! COS KINDERGARTEN REGISTRATION Community of Saints Regional Catholic School (COS) is still accepting registration for kindergarten students for Fall of 2023. This award winning school offers generous financial assistance thanks to the strong support of St. Matthew’s parish and alums. No family is turned away because of tuition. Additionally, Kindergarten students are considered "New" students and receive … [Read more...] about News and Events August 20, 2023
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 8-20-2023
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 STRAWBERRIES: In just three days, we will begin cleaning strawberries! Keep Wednesday, August 23 – Sunday, September 3 open! Our parish has again been asked to clean strawberries for the Strawberry & Cream booth at the Minnesota State Fair! We begin cleaning each day at about 8:00 AM and are usually finished about noon. The amount of berries to be cleaned depends on the weather and crowd size at the fair. Many of our volunteers look forward to this project and have already signed up to let us know they will help clean berries! They enjoy … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 8-20-2023
Parish Administrator’s Note – August 20, 2023
FAMILY REUNION Thank you to all who made last weekend’s Mass in the Park a success. I was sorry to miss it, but I had a good reason: I was in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, with more than a hundred of my second cousins and other relatives. Family history: I grew up in Mitchell, South Dakota, in an extended Irish Catholic family. Reunions at that time involved hundreds of people, most with the last name of Garry. My maternal grandmother was a Garry who married an O’Brien. Gracie, as we called her, was the oldest daughter in a family of 13. Eleven of the 13 married and had many children, who had … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – August 20, 2023
Reflection from Father Steve – August 20, 2023
During the summer months I have written about the spirituality of aging. Some have asked for suggestions of further reading and/or the books I have used in reflecting on “growing older”. On the Brink of Everything: Grace, Gravity and Getting Old, Parker J. Palmer The Word as it Should Be, Gregory F. A. Pierce [I first got to know Greg when he was a community organizer for the Industrial Area Foundation, established by Saul Alinsky.] Uncommon Gratitude, Joan Chittister and Rowan Williams How to Age, Anne Karrf A Time To Die, Monks on the Threshold of Eternal Life, Nicolas Diat Rules for … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – August 20, 2023
