St. Gilbert Catholic Church Weekly Pastor Message Father Gene Nowak

St. Gilbert Weekly Pastor Message

(847) 223-4731

Dear Parishioners,

This week, January 29 th – February 4 th , we celebrate "Catholic Schools Week". The theme this year is "Faith, Academics, Service". This theme speaks not only about a belief in God but transforms us into a people who fulfill the mission of Christ to serve others with unconditional love. Each day the school children shall demonstrate "Faith, Academics, Service" in a different setting: in our Parish, our Community, our Students, our Nation, our Vocations, our Faculty, Staff and Volunteers.

As pastor, I am proud of St. Gilbert Catholic School. We have an outstanding, dedicated Principal, Mrs. Allison O'Connor. Under her guidance, our Faculty, Staff and Volunteers are committed and enthusiastic about working with the children entrusted to them – sharing their beliefs, wisdom and Christian example.

Join us on Friday, February 3 rd , for the School's Open House. We invite prospective families to tour our facilities from 5:00pm-6:00pm and for everyone to visit from 6:00pm- 8:00pm. Share this news with friends considering Catholic education for their children. They will be impressed with our children's "Faith, Academics, Service".

Peace,

Fr. Gene

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The Office of Catholic Schools (OCS) of the Archdiocese of Chicago would like to understand how parents make elementary school decisions for their children in grades preschool through 8th grade. Understanding your views will help OCS improve Catholic school programs and the perspectives and needs of those who have not chosen Catholic schools. They ask you to take time to participate in the survey. Until February 7, it can be accessed at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/SchoolSurveyEnglish

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A Journey of Faith

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) - names the process by which interested persons gradually become
members of the Catholic Church. The RCIA is primarily a "journey of faith".

"From the awareness of stirring of faith and curiosity within one's heart,
          -through all the stages of asking and seeking, through beginning involvement with Roman Catholic people,
          -through hearing the gospel proclaimed and by faithful reflection and prayer on this Word of God,
          -through study and discussion about the Catholic experience,
          -through doubts and hesitations,
          -through discernment of God's call for them as individuals,
          -through the steps of commitment,
          -through the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist)
to a life of faith, love and justice lived in communion with Catholics throughout the world."

If you, or someone you know, have been thinking about joining the Catholic Church or desiring to complete their
Catholic Initiation (sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist), contact Fr. Gene at 847-223-4731   or   eugenenowak@hotmail.com .

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With much appreciation,

Fr. Gene