A few weeks ago I received an invitation to attend an Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Over the years I have received such invitations regularly. This invitation was really special. This Court of Honor was given for two young women – the second and third girls in the city of Saint Paul to have achieved this rank. One of the scouts is Lucy Dosch, a member of Saint Matthew’s parish. Only two percent of scouts achieve this rank. It is the highest advancement in scouting. In becoming an Eagle Scout, the scout must undertake a project which leads to the betterment of the community. Over the years … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – November 6, 2022
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 11-6-2022
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 PRAYER LINE: We are seeking a volunteer to monitor the Parish Prayer Line. In this role, your phone number would be published, without your name, in the parish bulletin under Prayer Line. People will call, asking to have the names of people in need of prayers placed on the Prayer Line. You will then call volunteers who have already offered their time to pray for those requests. Having an answering system will be helpful. If willing to volunteer, please contact Mary Leibl – or the parish office. FUNERAL MINISTRY: We are … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 11-6-2022
Men’s Club News November 2022
November 2022 General Meeting, Wednesday November 9th at 8pm, social hall. Menu – Tim’s surprise Turkey Bingo Turkey bingo will be this Saturday November 5th right after 4:15 mass. We will do fifteen games, twelve for turkeys, and three for half the pot. We will be selling food and beverages at the event. Invite family, friends, and neighbors. Christmas Auction Due to timing issues and securing the hall, the Christmas auction will be at the December general meeting. Like usual we will have a short meeting at 7pm prior to the auction. The men’s club will provide pizza and beverages to … [Read more...] about Men’s Club News November 2022
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-30-2022
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 PRAYER LINE: We are seeking a volunteer to monitor the Parish Prayer Line. In this role, your phone number would be published, without your name, in the parish bulletin under Prayer Line. People will call, asking to have the names of people in need of prayers placed on the Prayer Line. You will then call volunteers who have already offered their time to pray for those requests. Having an answering system will be helpful. If willing to volunteer, please contact Mary Leibl – or the parish office. FUNERAL MINISTRY: We are … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-30-2022
Parish Administrator’s Note – October 30, 2022
DATA, DATA, DATA Have you ever heard the saying, that to a person with a hammer, everything looks like a nail? I sometimes feel that way with regard to requests for data. That is, to a person with a computer, everything looks like data. Such is our modern world. For example, we fill out a Parish Survey every October. We send that data to the Archdiocese. Much of it is compiled and sent on to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). Part of the survey asks for basic contact info, such as staff members. Another part asks for counts of Mass attendees during the month of … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – October 30, 2022
Reflection from Father Steve – October 30, 2022
Day of the Dead, also known as Dia de Muertos in Spanish, is a Mexican holiday where beloved family members that have died come to visit the living and reunite with loved ones. Although it may be perceived as a somber holiday, it’s actually a grand celebration with music, food and vibrant decorations. Each year, families set up “family altars” with their family members’ photos, flowers, favorite foods and most cherished personal items. This feast celebrating family ancestors, the observance of The Day of the Dead, goes back to Pre-Columbian times – 3,000 years ago. In the fifteen century the … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – October 30, 2022
Giving Thanks in November Fundraiser 2022
Download entry form: Giving Thanks in November Fundraiser 2022 letter and entry form.pdf (2-page PDF file) Dear Friends of Saint Matthew's, We're writing today to tell you about our third "Giving Thanks in November Fundraiser", coming up fast! Here's how it works: Enter by October 26th. Enter as often as you like until then. Each $20 donation gives you 30 chances to win during November-one per day, to win anywhere from $25 to $1000! Donate after Mass on Saturdays and Sundays, or by stopping by the Parish Center (Mon-Thurs, 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.). Remember - You must donate … [Read more...] about Giving Thanks in November Fundraiser 2022
Faith Formation news 10-23-2022: Wednesday classes, Confirmation launch
FAITH FORMATION CLASSES RESUME: Public school students in Grades K-10 who are registered for Faith Formation have class on Wednesday, October 26, in the Parish Center. Grades K to 7 start at 6:30 PM and Grades 8 to 10 start at 6:45 PM. Community of Saints 8th graders will join the Confirmation students on October 26. During the Wednesday evening classes, students learn about our Catholic faith and are prepared for the sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation. Questions? Email or call/text 651-242-6004. ¿Habla español? Text Myrna, … [Read more...] about Faith Formation news 10-23-2022: Wednesday classes, Confirmation launch
Parish Administrator’s Note – October 23, 2022
VATICAN II, 1962-1965 The Second Vatican Council opened its first session in October of 1962. If you’re old enough to remember it, what comes to mind? (If you’re not old enough for personal memories, I’m still interested in what comes to mind. How has the Council affected your faith journey?) The first thing that comes to my mind is a “good news, bad news” type of story. In fourth grade, I was trained to be an altar server—in Latin. When I returned for 5th grade, the nuns had news: we had to retrain as servers—in English. Fr. Steve’s homily from last weekend triggered my memories, when he … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – October 23, 2022
Reflection from Father Steve – October 23, 2022
Next weekend is Halloween weekend, a time anticipated by children and prepared for many weeks in advance. I went to Sam’s Club this month to buy the candy treats I will offer the visitors this year. The celebration of Halloween has a strong religious origin. The English are fond of contractions. The word is the contraction of All-Hallows-Eve – the Eve of the Feast of All Saints. Just as before Ash Wednesday there is the tradition of celebration in Mardi Gras; so also, on the night before All Saints Day there is celebration. In some Latin countries there are great Fiestas in the city or … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – October 23, 2022
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-23-2022
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 PRAYER LINE: We are seeking a volunteer to monitor the Parish Prayer Line. In this role, your phone number would be published, without your name, in the parish bulletin under Prayer Line. People will call, asking to have the names of people in need of prayers placed on the Prayer Line. You will then call volunteers who have already offered their time to pray for those requests. Having an answering system will be helpful. If willing to volunteer, please contact Mary Leibl – or the parish office. FUNERAL MINISTRY: We are … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-23-2022
Parish Administrator’s Note – October 16, 2022
LOCAL SUPPORT (1) . . . comes in several forms, such as prayer, volunteering, and financial. As I mentioned last week, we’re not sending out a general stewardship letter this fall. Rather, we simply ask you to continue supporting our faith community as best you can. Start with prayer. If you can volunteer and/or contribute financially, great! It all helps. It all makes a difference. We do have a specific fundraising effort this month, however. That’s our 3rd Annual November Giving Thanks Fundraiser. It’s like a raffle: for every $20 donation, you have 30 chances to win a cash prize, one … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – October 16, 2022
Reflection from Father Steve – October 16, 2022
On October 16, 1962 photos taken from a US spy plane conclusively showed the installation of Soviet missile sites in Cuba capable of carrying a nuclear warhead to the United States. 90 miles from the coast of the USA the Soviet Union’s missiles are readied for launch. Thus the Cuban Missile Crisis! Time magazine’s correspondent in Rome tells of back channel efforts on the part of Pope John XXIII to de-escalate the threat of nuclear war between the USA and the USSR. John enlisted the help of Norman Cousins, editor of the Saturday Review of Literature. Pope John urged Cousins to undertake … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – October 16, 2022
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-16-2022
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 GREETERS: St. Matthew parish seeks “Greeters” for Sun. 10:15am mass. We welcome people who are able to extend a warm welcome to those arriving for Mass. Your friendly smile and enthusiasm for the Church of St. Matthew are all that is needed. If interested speak to the sacristan at mass or contact , or or the parish office. PRAYER LINE: We are seeking a volunteer to monitor the Parish Prayer Line. In this role, your phone number would be published, without your name, in the parish bulletin under … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-16-2022
Men’s Club News October 2022
General Meeting Wednesday October 12th at 8pm, St Matthew's Social Hall. Menu – Subway, chips, etc. Officer and Board Member Elections The yearly elections will be held at the October general meeting. Bob Bejblick will be running the election, if you are interested in a position let Bob know. Christmas Auction Due to lower attendance at the yearly Christmas auction, we discussed moving it to a Saturday after mass. That way we might get more church members to attend. We will get your feedback at the meeting to see if it makes sense. Coffee Sunday The men’s club will be hosting coffee … [Read more...] about Men’s Club News October 2022
Parish Administrator’s Note – October 9, 2022
A CREATIVE CHURCH? A few weekends ago (September 18), Fr. Steve explained the story of the so-called “bad steward.” (If you missed it or want to review, visit our website, www.st-matts.org, where you can find recordings of our online masses. The homily begins at about 18 minutes into the recording.) I was struck by Fr. Steve’s emphasis on the steward’s creativity in relieving local peasant farmers from crushing debt. He wasn’t a bad steward, who cheated his master. Rather, he was an entrepreneur, seeking opportunities for everyone to win: his master, the indebted peasants, and even himself. … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – October 9, 2022
Reflection from Father Steve – October 9, 2022
October 11th is the Feast of Saint John XXIII. This grandfatherly figure was a revolutionary. He desired to see the Church become a significant presence and voice in a rapidly changing world. On the evening of January 25, 1959, following the Solemn Vespers on the Feast of Saint Paul, he simply announced that it was his intention to convene an ecumenical (universal) church council – something that had not been done since 1870. The purpose of the Council was not to condemn a heresy (as so often was the case with Church councils) but to explore new avenues, new approaches, a new voice to … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – October 9, 2022
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-9-2022
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 GREETERS: St. Matthew parish seeks “Greeters” for Sun. 10:15am mass. We welcome people who are able to extend a warm welcome to those arriving for Mass. Your friendly smile and enthusiasm for the Church of St. Matthew are all that is needed. If interested speak to the sacristan at mass or contact , or or the parish office. PRAYER LINE: We are seeking a volunteer to monitor the Parish Prayer Line. In this role, your phone number would be published, without your name, in the parish bulletin under … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-9-2022
Marge Blenkush Book Release and Sale October 8-9, 2022
St. Matthew’s parishioner Marge Blenkush has published her first novel, The Doctor of Bellechester. In 1959, Dr. Harold Merton, the kindly and caring GP for the rural village of Bellechester, ventures into London to find a young junior doctor he can mentor. Upon his arrival, a self-assured young woman with plans of her own, befriends him. Can an act of kindness change a life? Find out in this gentle, cozy read. The book is published in large print for easy reading. Marge will be selling her book after the Masses on October 8 and 9. The book costs $20.00 (taxes included). For every book sold, … [Read more...] about Marge Blenkush Book Release and Sale October 8-9, 2022
Parish Administrator’s Note – October 2, 2022
CAPITAL NEEDS Many thanks to all who attended last Saturday’s Fix-It Dinner! Together, we raised $2,000 towards installing safety equipment such as cameras. It was also a great social event for our community. Special thanks to chefs Greg, Steve and Greg for the delicious food! Speaking of safety equipment and other capital needs, you might notice a change in the next batch of contribution envelopes you receive. We’ve replaced the Maintenance envelope with one called the St. Matthew Capital Needs Fund. It’s a broader category, more useful for planning and accounting purposes. Capital needs, … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – October 2, 2022
Reflection from Father Steve – October 2, 2022
October 4th is the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi. On October 4, 1965 Pope Paul VI visited the United States and spoke at the United Nations calling for an end to the rage of war. Pope Paul: “War, never again. Never again war!” This was the first time a Pope set foot on the soil of the USA. At noon on October 4th Pope Paul called on President Johnson at the Waldorf Astoria. They spent an hour together. Many of Johnson’s advisors urged him to seek the help of Paul VI in brokering a negotiated end to the Vietnam War. Johnson was stubborn and would not enlist the Pope’s assistance. Pope Paul … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – October 2, 2022
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-2-2022
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 GREETERS: St. Matthew parish seeks “Greeters” for Sun. 10:15am mass. We welcome people who are able to extend a warm welcome to those arriving for Mass. Your friendly smile and enthusiasm for the Church of St. Matthew are all that is needed. We thank Josiah & Isabel who has been our Sunday mass greeter! To volunteer contact: , or or the parish office. CLERICAL: Occasionally we will have a parish-wide mailing. At those times we call on some of our office volunteers to help. They fold letters, … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 10-2-2022
Fall Cleaning of Church and Grounds 10-15-2022
Parish Fall Cleaning of Church and Grounds: Saturday, October 15, 2022, 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM. It is time for the annual Fall church cleaning! We will dust and polish the furniture, vacuum the stairs, and wash windows. Outside we will get the gardens ready for winter. This is also an excellent opportunity for Confirmation students who will be needing service hours! Cleaning supplies and some equipment will be available. Bring your own favorite cleaning supplies or tools and let's see how much we can accomplish in 2 hours. Sign up sheets are on the tables in the back of church. Coffee and donuts … [Read more...] about Fall Cleaning of Church and Grounds 10-15-2022
Faith Formation news 9-25-2022: classes are still open
FAITH FORMATION, FIRST COMMUNION, CONFIRMATION CLASSES ARE OPEN Wednesday evening Faith Formation classes have begun for public school students. St. Matthew is still welcoming new registrations for students to join the program. Download the registration form and COVID-19 safety plan from www.st-matts.org/faith-formation. Then bring your student(s) to Faith Formation class on Wednesday, September 29. Students in Grades K to 7 begin class at 6:30 PM and students in Grades 8 to 10 begin class at 6:45 PM. Attendance at these classes is required for public school students who would like to make … [Read more...] about Faith Formation news 9-25-2022: classes are still open
Reflection from Father Steve – September 25, 2022
Next Saturday, October 1st, following the 4:15 PM Mass, a blessing of animals will take place in the square outside the church, around the Saint Matthew statue. This blessing has been a practice here and is being re-established in honor of the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi – whose feast is October 4th. Pope Francis has called us to see the care for creation as an essential part of being a human being – the realization that you and I are part of the creation of God, along with the land and sea, the fish and wild life, the flora and fauna, etc. Francis challenges all people to set as a … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – September 25, 2022
Parish Administrator’s Note – September 25, 2022
UP ON THE ROOFTOP Last week, Englund Roofing began needed maintenance on the roofs of our Parish Center (PC). During the bidding process, their inspectors praised whoever installed the PC roof years ago. That was nice to hear. Because of that past work of good quality, Englund recommended only maintenance work, e.g., caulking and scupper repair. That saves us money, compared to replacing the roofs. In addition to the PC roof work, Englund will replace the scupper on the sloped part of the church roof (on the parking lot side). They’ll also install a new downspout there. That should stop the … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – September 25, 2022
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-25-2022
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 GREETERS: St. Matthew parish seeks additional “Greeters” for Sun. 10:15am mass. We welcome people who are able to extend a warm welcome to those arriving for Mass. Your friendly smile and enthusiasm for the Church of St. Matthew are all that is needed. We thank Josiah & Isabel who has been our Sunday mass greeter! To volunteer contact: , or or the parish office. CLERICAL: Occasionally we will have a parish-wide mailing. At those times we call on some of our office volunteers to help. They … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-25-2022
Children’s Liturgy of the Word Update 9-25-2022
Our young worshippers ages 3 to 6 are welcome to take a Gospel Weeklies Seeds packet to use during Mass and at home after church. These packets are near the hymnals at the front entrance. Each packet contains a weekly lesson specific to the Sunday Gospel, a coloring page or activity sheet, crayons, a parent teaching page, and often extras to help children learn about and practice their Catholic faith and have some fun! Thanks to Ann and Barb for preparing fall Children’s Liturgy packets. If you would like to help with this ministry, email or call or text 651-242-6004. … [Read more...] about Children’s Liturgy of the Word Update 9-25-2022
Children’s Liturgy of the Word Update 9-18-2022
Our Gospel Weeklies curriculum resumes this weekend, which means the Seeds and Promise packets in church near the hymnals at the front entrance contain a weekly lesson specific to the Sunday Gospel as well as a parent teaching page for that week’s lesson. Each packet also has extras to help our young worshippers ages 3 to 6 learn about and practice their Catholic faith and have some fun! Thanks to Ann and Janelle for preparing summer packets and thanks to Ann and Barb for preparing fall Children’s Liturgy packets. Most particularly, thanks to families for bringing their children to worship … [Read more...] about Children’s Liturgy of the Word Update 9-18-2022
Reflection from Father Steve – September 18, 2022
On the weekend of September 24 and 25 we will celebrate the Feast of Saint Matthew, Patron of our Parish Community. In 1886 The Church of Saint Matthew was established as a Daughter church of the Mother church of German Catholics – The Assumption. Other Daughter churches also sprang from the Assumption – Saint Bernard, Saint Agnes, Saint Francis de Sales and Guardian Angels. For 136 years Saint Matthew’s Community has tried to truly be a visible sign of God’s love on the West Side of Saint Paul. Many generations have been a part of the story of our parish – a story that changed and developed … [Read more...] about Reflection from Father Steve – September 18, 2022
Pray the Rosary in the Chapel, 5:30 pm, 9-20-2022
PRAY THE ROSARY WITH US ON SEPTEMBER 20 The rosary is the story of Jesus told through the New Testament. The Mysteries of the Rosary are a collection of scripture passages for us to read and reflect on as we pray. The St. Matthew’s parish community is invited to join the Rosary Society on Tuesday, September 20 at 5:30 PM in the Chapel as together we pray the rosary. A visit to the learntherosary.com can provide a helpful refresher on how to pray the rosary. Rosaries will be available in the Chapel. The Rosary Society is planning to continue with this community rosary once a month. Watch the … [Read more...] about Pray the Rosary in the Chapel, 5:30 pm, 9-20-2022
Parish Administrator’s Note – September 18, 2022
STORIES AND FOOD I don’t think there’s any coincidence that stories and food are at the core of our Catholic faith life. What do I mean by that? I’m referring to several connected realities. One of them happens at Mass, which always features Scripture stories, followed by a ritual meal. More formally, we speak of Mass as having two main parts: “The Liturgy of the Word” and “The Liturgy of the Eucharist.” Whichever words you use, Mass is central to our Catholic identity. Another reality happens when we meet with family, friends and St. Matt’s community members to eat and tell stories. This … [Read more...] about Parish Administrator’s Note – September 18, 2022
Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-18-2022
Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8 GREETERS: St. Matthew parish seeks additional “Greeters” for Sun. 10:15am mass. We welcome people who are able to extend a warm welcome to those arriving for Mass. Your friendly smile and enthusiasm for the Church of St. Matthew are all that is needed. We thank Josiah who has been our Sunday mass greeter! To volunteer contact: , or or the parish office. CLERICAL: Occasionally we will have a parish-wide mailing. At those times we call on some of our office volunteers to help. They fold letters, … [Read more...] about Volunteer Opportunities and Parish Needs for the week of 9-18-2022
Breakfast Hosted by the Minus Family 9-18-2022
On Sunday, September 18 from 9:00 AM to 1:00PM, 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. … [Read more...] about Breakfast Hosted by the Minus Family 9-18-2022
Men’s Club News September 2022
General Meeting Wednesday September 14th at 8pm, St Matthew's Social Hall. Menu – Hot dogs, hamburgers, chips, etc. Fix-It Fundraiser Dinner The St. Matthew’s Fix-It fundraiser will be held on Saturday September 24th right after the 4:15 mass. The proceeds help fund projects around the church. Sick and Vigil Steve Grundei’s Dad passed away in 2020 and his Mom passed away in August so they are celebrating their lives together on the same day. Please keep Steve and the Grundei family in your prayers. Connie Grundei, loving wife, mother, grandmother, and Mimi Died on August 18, 2022 at the … [Read more...] about Men’s Club News September 2022
