News & Events

2024 Bishop’s Annual Appeal

Have you attended a baptism, first Communion, confirmation, wedding, or ordination? All of these sacraments are supported through the ministries funded by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal. Help continue to support these vital milestones of our faith through a gift at www.stcdio.org/annualappeal.

AA GROUP MEETINGS

AA Group Meetings at St. Francis Xavier. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol abuse, St. Francis Xavier hosts a local AA group which meets every Thursday at 6:30pm in Xavier Hall. Attendees should go to the east side of the Xavier Hall - Door X3 and down to the basement. If you have questions, please contact Denny K. at 320-224-7785.

ADORATION UPDATE

We are so excited to welcome so many new adoration chapel captains! We are specifically looking to add some men to our committee, so if you have been feeling called to commit to an hour of prayer or to help with supporting the chapel by being
a captain – please contact Nicky Carlson: ncarlson@taocatholic.org. Here are our most urgent hours of need:
Monday 1-2AM,
Tuesday 4-5AM,
Wednesday 11PM,
Thursday 7AM.
If you are interested in committing to an hour that is not listed – please email Nicky. Many of our adorers would appreciate a prayer partner so that if one of you cannot make it due to illness, other commitment, etc – you have a built in sub. Also, if your schedule does not permit you to commit to a specific hour, but you would like to be able to spend time with Jesus in the chapel – please reach out to find out more about our perpetual adoration chapel. Thank you! -

“Come to me, all you who are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

ALASKA MISSION DONATIONS

Donations One in Christ Missionaries continue to seek your prayers and support as 30 disciples are sent to evangelize, support and grow in solidarity with our Yupik brothers and sisters from Toksook Bay Alaska. We are very grateful to Bishop Donald Kettler for providing the connections that have helped make this mission location possible. To help make this mission possible please send your prayer and financial support. Make your check payable to Sacred Heart, attention Alaskan Mission, Dcn Joe Kresky. This is a tax deductible contribution. Contact Dcn Joe for more information.

ALASKAN MISSION TRIP

One in Christ will be going on a mission trip to Alaska on July 20th-26th, 2024. High schoolers and adults are invited to join us as we build solidarity with our Alaskan brothers and sisters. The cost is yet to be determined. An informational meeting will be on December 12th at 6:30 pm at Sacred Heart. Please contact Dcn Joe Kresky at 320-292-4857 or Karen Handeland at 320-761-5155 for more information.

ANNUAL WAY OF THE CROSS

26th Annual Way of the Cross—Sponsored by Communion and Liberation Good Friday, March 29,2024 @ 3pm St Mary’s Cathedral. Please join us as we reflect on the passion of Jesus through scripture, hymns and silent reflection. Procession begins at St Mary’s Cathedral Church and proceeds to Lake George and concludes back at St. Mary’s. All are welcome and should come dressed for that day’s weather.
For more information about Communion and Liberation and this event please contact John Steichen at jsteichen@aol.com or 320-492-7063

Aftershock

Grades 6-12 welcome
6:30-7pm Supper & 7-8:30 programming
Save the Date: August 5-9. Youth in grades 6-11 are
invited to participate a week of Service this summer. We will
be volunteering locally as well as having a day in the cities.
Registration material will be sent on April 1.
**Watch Flocknote for more information and details on
these events**

Aftershock

Grades 6-12. 6:30-7pm Supper & 7-8:30 programming

All Women of St. Francis...

All women of the parish are invited to be part of this organization. If you are interested in hearing more about who we are, what we do and how often we meet, please contact Aggie at 320-252-1417 or make plans to attend our first meeting of the new year on Tuesday, September 20 at 6:30 PM in our parish gathering place. Please consider becoming a member

BELLS OF THE HEART

Bells of the Heart is welcoming new members. Playing in a handbell choir is a great way to have fun, socialize, and to learn new things. Playing handbells is easiest when you have prior experience reading music or playing an instrument. New ringers will be paired with experienced ringers. Students in grade 6 and older are welcome to join with a parent or guardian who will also ring bells. The choir is based out of Sacred Heart Parish but is open to all members of our Area Catholic Community as space allows. Rehearsals are on Monday evenings, and we play for Mass at SH approximately once a month. Contact Sarah Woeste at 320-251-8115 x116 for more information.

BULLETIN SUBMISSIONS

As we get ready to start another busy year of activities, we know space in the bulletin will start to get tight. With that in mind, we have a few requests for bulletin submissions. 1) Have your submissions for the community pages written out and to Jill Lieser in the office (by Monday at 8am for the bulletin being published that coming weekend. For example, for the October 7th/8th bulletin, community page submissions should be in by October 2nd. 2) Be brief. Paragraphs of details makes it hard to fit all submissions in. If your submission is lengthy, it may be edited for length. Please make sure there is a contact for additional information. 3) Let us know how long you would like the submission to run for. If it is in the bulletin for multiple weeks, we may need to pull it out for a week or two to allow room for new submissions. We will always try to run it again as the end date approaches.

Baccalaureate Mass

May 19 Baccalaureate Mass @ 9:30 Mass. Formal invites will be sent out.

Bible in a Year

In
The Bible in a Year
podcast,
Fr. Mike Schmitz
walks you through the entire Bible in 365 episodes, providing commentary, reflection, and prayer along the way.
Listen and…Read the ENTIRE Bible, Feel more confident about your understanding of Scripture, experience the transformative power of God’s Word in your daily life, start seeing the world through the lens of Scripture.


Even if you did it last year! Do it again!
You will be blessed!

CANCER/MAJOR HEALTH ISSUES SUPPORT GROUP

The hope for this group is to provide a supportive setting for those with cancer/major medical conditions (and/or their loved ones) that will include prayer and opportunities to share personal experiences of God's grace and blessings when such illnesses are a part of life. There will be an introductory meeting on Friday, May 3rd at 9:30am in Xavier Hall. Please join us if you can. If this date is NOT good, but you are interested in future participation, please call the parish office 320-252-1363 to speak with Sandee or Tom or email skremers@stfrancissartell.org, tofferdahl@stfrancissartell.org, or Jim Negen at jrnegen@gmail.com. The plan is to hear input from others in designing the structure and to hold monthly meetings.

CEMETERY NEWS

If you are in need of a plant stand, we have them available. They are made by a parishioner, and we sell them for what they cost us - $65.00. Shepherds hooks are NOT approved for flower displays. They get caught on the equipment when mowing at the cemetery. Solar lights are also NOT ALLOWED. The single pole plant stands work well and are adjustable for different sizes of pots. They also keep our cemetery looking uniform. For display it is recommended that you "tie down" your pot in the stand - especially with artificial flowers to keep them from blowing out. There are copies of current cemetery guidelines available in the gathering place entrances. The guidelines include information regarding decorating, monument sizes, and current prices for gravesites and niches in the columbarium.
Please abide by these guidelines. Items out of compliance will be removed and discarded. There is some relaxing of these rules at the time of burial, but, in general, we ask that you follow the guidelines. If you are interested in pre-planning and wish to secure a gravesite(s) or a niche(s), please contact Tom Offerdahl in the parish office - 320-252-1363, ext. 405.

CEMETERY PLANT STANDS

One of the guidelines for decorating at our parish cemetery is to use single pole plant stands (NOT shepherds hooks or 3 prong stands or other configurations). This is to help keep the cemetery looking nice and making it safer and more efficient for those who mow at the cemetery. We have approved, single pole plant stands available at the parish office. They are made locally and we sell them for what we pay for them
- $65.00. They are made for approximately a 10" pot. They can hold larger or smaller pots by some "squeezing" or "stretching" the brackets on the stand.

COMMUNITY PRAYER FOR PEACE

Sunday, April 28th, 4 pm at the Sartell Community Center ( 850 19th St. S Sartell) Wondering what to do in this time of great violence, uncertainty and heartbreak over what's happening in Gaza, Israel, Ukraine, Sudan and our own communities? Join with others in praying for peace. We will gather and then walk around Lake Frances. Sponsored by the following churches: First United Methodist, Celebration Lutheran, St. Francis Xavier Catholic. For more information contact Molly Weyrens 320-828-4465.

COMMUNITY PRAYER FOR PEACE

Join us Sunday, April 28th, 4 pm at the Sartell Community Center (850 19th St. S Sartell) Wondering what to do in this time of great violence, uncertainty and heartbreak over what's happening in Gaza, Israel, Ukraine, Sudan and our own communities? Join with others in praying for peace. We will gather and then walk around Lake Frances. Sponsored by the following churches: First United Methodist, Celebration Lutheran, St. Francis Xavier Catholic. For more information contact Molly Weyrens 320-828-4465.

Catholic Charities Food Shelf

Drop off for cash or food items will be the 2nd weekend of the month throughout the year at Sacred Heart and Annunciation.

Central MN Catholic Magazine

Have you read The Central Minnesota Catholic magazine? Do you follow the Diocese of St. Cloud on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter or Instagram? Have you visited the diocesan websites for resources? All of these communication tools that inform us of the latest Catholic news are supported by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal. Keep the news coming by contributing at www.stcdio.org/annualappeal.

DIOCESAN TV MASS

Viewers in the St. Cloud Diocese can watch the Mass on KSTC-45 at 11am each Sunday via cable, satellite or antenna (check your cable provider for channel number). Charter Communication airs the Mass on Channel 17.

EASTER VIGIL RECEPTION

The Vibrancy Committee from St. Stephen and the Gathering in the Arts Board from St. Francis Xavier Parishes invites you to a reception in the Gathering Area immediately following the 8:00 pm Easter Vigil Mass. Please join us in welcoming our two new members: Elect, Jenna Nielsen - she will receive the Sacraments of Baptism, First Communion and Confirmation. And Candidate – Carson Thorstenson–he will receive the Sacraments of First Communion and Confirmation.

ELECTRONIC GIVING AND YEAR END GIFTS

As the end of the year is getting closer, many people begin thinking of year end gifts. Please keep St. Francis Xavier in mind for your charitable donations. For those who quality, IRA roll-overs can possibly have some tax advantages. Please see your financial advisor or accountant for such possibilities. Another way to give regularly is by electronic giving. That can be set up for weekly, monthly or quarterly donations. Even one time gifts if you so choose. Go to the parish webite https:// www.stfrancissartell.org/ and click on the DONATE button. It is easy to set up! Thank you for your commitment and generous support of St. Francis Xavier and our parish ministries.

ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Need help paying your Energy Bills? Greater Minnnesota Gas, Inc. (GMG) would like to remind residential homeowners or renters of the Energy Assistance Program (EAP). This federally funded program helps pay for home heating costs, may assist with furnace repairs and could offer energy efficiency home upgrades for income qualified customers. Please call 1-800-657-3710 for Assistance. If you have any questions, please call us from 8:00 am –4:30 pm Monday—Friday.

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

St. Anthony's Chapel— Come and see! Jesus is truly present here in the Eucharist and wants to fill you with good things!! Come for a few minutes or stay an hour. Make it a Lenten sacrifice or a Eucharistic Revival prayer. Prayerfully consider committing to a weekly hour of adoration. Your heart will be changed!
Church of St. Anthony
2405 1st St N. St Cloud
The East door is open 6am to 6pm. Text or call Peggy at 320-259-7841 for more information. Thank you.

EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS EVENTS-POSTPONED

It is with great regret that, due to a serious medical issue in Dr. Timothy O'Malley's family, the Diocese of St. Cloud is postponing the "Becoming Eucharist" Congress events slated for Sept. 8-9. Plans are in the works to reschedule Dr. O'Malley's visit at a later time. Information will be shared as soon as it is available. Please continue to pray for all to experience renewed love of Jesus in the Eucharist.
Visit stcdio.org/eucharistic-revival for more Eucharistic Revival resources, events and information.

EUCHARISTIC MINISTER SUBSTITUTES

"With cold & flu season upon us please remember to wash your hands often, cover your cough, and stay home if you are ill. Liturgical ministers should arrange for a substitute if they are experiencing symptoms."

EUCHARISTIC REVIVAL

Banquet of Love- As a gift to couples and a support for parishes and ACCs, Bishop Neary purchased the license for anyone in the diocese to use this series at NO COST. The license includes 18-month access to the entire course material, online video modules and printable PDFs for each session. It can be offered to couples to use on their own or as part of small faith sharing groups. Topics include how the Jewish understanding of sacrifice and time are critical to understanding the Eucharist, the positive and negative sides of predictability and possibility in marriage, building blocks to help forgive and heal, anger management and conflict resolution, the sacred order toward marital intimacy modeled for us in the Eucharist and why the Real Presence is so critical in marriage.
—To find out more information about the Banquet of Love, please visit the Diocese of
St. Cloud Website at https://stcdio.org/eucharistic-revival/

Electronic and Online Giving

A great way to support St. Francis Xavier is by electronic giving. Your support and commitment of regular, steady contributions is appreciated. SFX has opportunities to set up for direct transfers to the parish from your bank account or giving by credit card. That sounds funny in some ways, but many credit cards offer points for travel and other deals. You can charge your credit card and the payment goes directly to the parish. It saves writing a check out each week or month as well. Call Tom in the parish office to learn more 320-252- 1363. Additionally, many banks offer “bill pay”. Donations to your parish are not a bill, but that is the terminology used. This is done online from your home, but if you need help, visit your bank and they can help you get set up.

FAIR TRADE PRODUCTS FOR SALE

Fair trade coffee, tea, chocolate bars and hot chocolate mixes will be available for sale after Mass this weekend.
There are a few different coffee roasts – some whole bean, some ground and a decaf option as well. Coffee, tea and chocolate make great gifts for the Easter basket!

FAITH FORMATION REGISTRATION

Don't for get to register for next years faith formation. Registration deadline is May 15th to receive the discounted fee. Registration forms available online, in Flocknote or in the gathering place. Completed forms can be mailed in or dropped off in the parish office.

FALL FESTIVAL FRANNY FLYER

I founded the annual 5K 10K 1 mile and 1K race 13 years ago as a fundraiser for the church and school. To date, the race as raised $45,000. There is no other place as fun to be at then St. Francis the morning of the race. It is now time for me to step down and spend my time in other areas. I would like to thank the following for their support throughout the past 13 years. Fr. Lauren, Fr. Tim, Fr. Ron, all of the runners and walkers, the volunteers who helped (takes 60 on raceday), the business sponsors, Cathedral High School National Honor Society, Boy Scouts, the vendors that gave us breaks on prices including Gopher State Events, Roxanne Johnson and Mustang Signs, SFX Health & Wellness committee, SFX custodial staff, and the SFX parish office. Nick Novak

FOOD DONATIONS NEEDED FOR PLACE OF HOPE

The Church of St. Francis will be collecting food for one meal a month at A Place of Hope. We will need enough food to feed 200 hundred people. In the month of June we will be donating a meal of:
Roast Beef
Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
Green Beans
Fruit Salad
Bars
Milk
We will need cash donations for Roast Beef, Milk, Bars and Whipped Cream. You can pick up envelopes at the door or on the tables in the Gathering Space for Cash Donations. Please place your donation in the envelope and put in the offering basket or drop off in the Parish Office. Make sure the envelope is sealed and has Outreach Ministries and A Place of Hope on the sealed envelope.
We are looking for donation of:
Instant Mashed Potatoes
Gravy Mix
Green Beans
Fruit Cocktail
If we can get enough volunteer teams SFX can serve a
meal at A Place of Hope. Please put together your
team and then contact Sandee Kremers at
320-252-1363 x403.

FOSTER GRANDPARENT PROGRAM

Calling all volunteers age 55+!! You have many opportunities to make a difference in the life of a child at local schools, childcare centers or KIDSTOP programs.
Help children succeed!
*Only 260 hours per year
*Tax-free Stipend
*Travel reimbursement
*Training provided
Contact Sue at 320-229-4589 Linda (Vouk) Midas at 223-0409 or email Sue at sue.feliciano@ccstcloud.org for more information.

FUNERAL BLESSINGS

Remember in your prayers the family of Marcel Knapek, who passed away on April 14, from St. Francis Xavier,
Eternal Rest grant unto her Oh Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her.

Foundations of Faith Community Nursing

Our One in Christ Area Catholic Community is looking for that special person who is interested in this opportunity. If this is something that you have thought about and prayed about, now is the time. Please call Bethany Tollefson for all the details and any questions that you may have. Faith Community Nursing (FCN) is a specialty of nursing that focuses on the intentional care of the spirit and whole-person health. Some examples of how FCNs may serve (depending on their availability and the need) ● Home and hospital visits and calls, ● Educational offerings ● Connection to community resources, ● Care group facilitation, ● Baby blankets and prayer shawl ministry, ● Mental health education and resources ● Much, much more! The next Community Nursing Course is offered virtually on April 28, 29, 2024 and May 5, 6 2024. Scholarships available. Contact Bethany at bethany.tollefson@centracare.com.

Grief Support Group CHANGE IN SCHEDULE!

The Grief Group will meet again starting in August on the 1st & 3rd WEDNESDAY of the month. All are welcome! Any questions please contact Sandee Kremers at 320-252-1363 x403 or skremers@stfrancissartell.org.

HOMEBOUND & HOSPITAL VISITORS NEEDED

We are looking for volunteers to visit parishioners that are in the hospital or homebound. Contact Sandee Kremers at 320- 252-1363 or skremers@stfrancissartell.org.

HOMELESS HELPING HOMELESS

Homeless Helping Homeless is in need of supplies! Now until Jan 14th, the Social Concerns Team is collecting napkins, paper towels, toilet paper, hand warmers, and warm gloves. Please drop off items in designated areas in the gathering space or by the parish office at Sacred Heart Church. Donations are appreciated from any
parish in our ACC. For more information contact Dcn Joe at 320-292-4857.

Helping Hands Outreach

Helping Hands Outreach
Senior Dining - Wednesday’s at The Rusty Nail at noon followed by cards. Cost-$6.00 per meal. Feet First Clinic - Call Helping Hands to set up an appointment. 320-746-9960.

In Home Communion

If you are interested in receiving communion in your home or you know of someone who might be interested, please contact Sandee Kremers x1103 or skremers@stfrancissartell.org

Join the Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus are a men’s fraternal organization that stand by the principals of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. Bishop Trobec Council 5276—Sartell, St. Stephen, and St. Wendell is active in our communities. We support vocations, family, pro-life and those in need. Recent donations include cash for the St. Stephen Parish Festival and the Franny Flyer 5k/10k/1 mile and Kids 1k Fun Run, donations to youth groups at both parishes, and more. You see the KC’s helping with hospitality and serving food at youth events. To learn more contact Grand Knight Adam Fasen (320-282-7083), Tom Offerdahl(320-290-3228), or any other Knight you may know.

KING’S HOUSE RETREATS

Do This in Memory of Me, presented by King’s House Retreat Staff
Jesus shared The Last Supper with His disciples and gave them the gift of His presence as He becomes the Bread of Life and the Cup of Salvation. The disciples have many
memories of these events and will be the focus of our retreat.
Includes Mass, personal prayer time, Reconciliation, Scriptural Rosary and a healing service. Per person: $50 deposit at registration and Suggested Donation of $195; includes 2 overnights, private accommodations and 6 meals; Register online at www.kingshouse.com or call 763-682-1394.

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS RAFFLE

The Knights of Columbus are holding their annual Gun Raffle. The tickets are $20 and only 20 remain. There are 6 hunting guns shown (3 shotguns and 3 rifles.) and six $50 Scheel's gift cards. If you don't hunt or don't need a gun, you can get a gift card with the value of the gun to be used for anything you like at Scheel's. The gun raffle takes place on Monday, May 6, 2024 at Trobec's Bar in St. Stephen at 7:00pm. See a KC member about buying a ticket or the parish office also has a number of tickets available. Thanks for your support.

KNIGHTS TOOTSIE ROLL FUNDRAISER

Bishop Trobec Council will be having its annual Tootsie Roll Fundraiser the weekend of April 26th, 27th & 28th. Proceeds from the Tootsie Roll Drive help youth and adults with intellectual and developmental challenges. KC members will be at the Pine Cone and Riverside Coborn's stores on Friday and Saturday (Apr. 26 & 27) and also at St. Stephen and St. Francis Xavier parishes after the each Mass that weekend. The Tootsie Rolls are handed out and there is no charge for them, but FREE Will offerings are accepted. Proceeds from this fundraiser are donated to The Special Olympics, Camp Courage by Maple Lake/Annandale, the St. Cloud Diocese (for ministry to people with special needs), and the Sartell-St. Stephen special education department. The Knights of Columbus want to help recognize the dignity of every person. Every life is a blessing!

ONE IN CHRIST ACC SHIRTS/HATS

We have One in Christ ACC shirts and hats in stock! We have a few of the gray crew neck shirts left in sizes L-2XL. We also have the new blue shirts with white ACC logo in both crew neck and V-neck. Shirts and hats are $15 each. If you are interested, call or stop by your parish office.

OUTDOOR AED CABINET AT ST. FRANCIS

St. Francis Xavier has one AED in the church and one AED inside the school. However, they are not available 24/7. The outdoor AED cabinet would be placed by the playground and athletic fields so there is quick access anytime. We encourage you to make a donation online or send a check to Advocate for Health at 4067 Pine Point Road, Sartell, MN 56377. The online donation link is https://www.givemn.org/story/Stfrancischurch.

OUTREACH MINISTRIES

"It was not you who chose me, but I who chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit that will remain, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name He may give you. This I command you: love one another."
John 15 16-17
Do you know of someone who is homebound and would like to receive a visit and Eucharist?
Do you know of someone who has been deployed or is in the military who would like to receive correspondence?
Or are you interested in doing homebound visits or corresponding with our active military?
Please contact Sandee Kremers as we continue to grow our Outreach Ministries. 320-252-1363 x1103

One in Christ Area Catholic Community (ACC) planning council

The One in Christ Area Catholic Community (ACC) planning council is looking for new members. Some members of this council have been serving for the past 3 years and their terms will be ending in December. The ACC council, with representatives from all 4 parishes, works to collaborate in providing for the needs of all the parishes in order to re-energize parishioners so all parishes can thrive. Please consider serving on this council as a representative from your parish. Contact your pastor if you are interested. Check out our website, www.oneinchristacc.org for more information.

PERPETUAL ADORATION

Are you being called to spend time with the Lord in a beautiful and peaceful way? There are many opportunities to pray before the Blessed Sacrament and spend time with Jesus. The Saint Anthony’s Chapel is the only perpetual adoration chapel in town. We are especially in need of nocturnal adorers. Here are the most urgent hours: Sun 11pm-4am and Friday 12am-5am. If you could cover 1-2 of these hours, please contact Nicky Carlson to sign up at nicolechristine789@gmail.com or text 320- 304-4199.
Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you-1 Peter 5:7

PLACE OF HOPE

St. Francis Xavier is scheduled the 4th Tuesday of the month starting in October to prepare, serve and clean up for a meal at Place of Hope. The dates for the year are as follows – 10/24, 11/28, 12/26, 1/23, 2/27, 3/26, 4/23, 5/28. We will start to prepare the meal at SFX and will finish the preparations at Place of Hope. We will need some adults to leave SFX at 3 pm and then we will need to pick up youth at 3:45 pm to help us finish preparing, serve and clean up. We will return to SFX at approximately 6:45 pm. We will need 10 people per date, and we will always need 3 adults per meal for chaperoning. We will take 6-12th graders with us or any age if accompanied by an adult. Contact Sandee Kremers at 320-252-1363 x403 or skremers@stfrancissartell.org with any questions or to sign up.
We will still bring a meal in September but will not prepare, serve, and clean up. Look for more details next week on our September meal. Cash donations are always welcome to help us with the costs. All One in Christ Catholic Community are invited to help. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if interested.

PRAYER LINE

After many years of being the head person on the Prayer Line, Dorothy Frank will be retiring from this role. Thank you
Dorothy, for all of the years of service! We are looking for a new head of the prayer line. If interested, please contact Sandee Kremers at 320-252-1363 or skremers@stfrancissartell.org.

PRAYERS

Please keep in your prayers: Jenna Nielson, Catechumen and Carson Thorstenson, Candidate. May the Holy Spirit continue to guide their journey this Lent!

PRC WALK FOR LIFE 2024

Pregnancy Resource Center & Medical Clinic is excited to announce their Walk for Life 2024. Join them Saturday, May 4th at Southside Park in Sauk Rapids. There will be music, food, and a chance to connect with PRC friends! Help Pregnancy Resource Center & Medical Clinic to save lives one step at a time by fundraising, securing your pledges, and walking at the annual Walk for Life event, Saturday, May 4th! Register and fundraise on the event page found at https:// give.preghelpfriends.com/event/2024-walkfor- life/e548638
Or by scanning the QR code below. MANY volunteer opportunities are available!! Whatever you like or are able to do, we can find a perfect place for you to volunteer with the Walk for Life Fundraiser. Please contact Elizabeth at 320-371-0533

ROSE SALES

St. Monica Christian Women will have roses available after Masses on Mother’s Day weekend. Thank your mother and father for choosing Life. All donations will be given to local prolife organizations. Donations are a suggested amount of $3 each or 2 for $5. Thank you for supporting Life

Remember in your prayers...

Remember in your prayers the family of Clarence Rueter, who passed away on March 22 and Weston Lentner who passed away on March 22.

SCUBA-VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2024

Where kids will dive into a friendship with God! Registration materials are available at all 4 parishes for students and volunteers. VBS is open to kids ages 4 through entering 5th grade. Students in 6th grade and older can volunteer to help in various ways throughout the week. Lots of volunteers are needed both the week of VBS and leading up to VBS-See the volunteer form for more information on how to get involved.

SFX SCHOOL

Greetings SFX Faith Community,
We are excited for all the learning opportunities awaiting us in 2024. St. Francis Xavier School has much to offer the families of our community.
1. Our Catholic school partners with parents to form children in the virtues of faith, hope and charity, and our world needs renewal of these virtues. Children are proof that God is good and with us.
2. Our Catholic school is small and committed to developing the whole child through academic excellence, spiritual growth, and community service.
3. We work with our families to adjust to changing economic situations.
4. Our Catholic school teachers and staff model to our students how to rely on their faith to persevere through challenges that may emerge.
5. Our Catholic school is purposefully planning for possibilities to improve our instruction and strengthen our community. We offer personal tours of our exceptional school.
If you or someone you know are interested in enrolling as a SFX and want to know more about our programs, please contact the school office at (schooloffice@sfx61.org) or call 252-9940.
Heidi Schloe, Principal

SOCIAL CONCERNS COLLECTION

The three pillars of Lent are fasting, praying, and almsgiving. Almsgiving is not limited to giving money. The St. Francis Xavier Social Justice and Concerns group will be collecting personal supplies to give to one of two organizations.
• Any men's personal products (shampoo, deodorant, soaps, shaving cream, etc.) will be given to The Dream Center in St. Cloud, which is a service to help adult men face their challenges
, find wholeness, and successfully integrate back into society after being incarcerated. (www.dreamcenterstcloud.org)
• Any feminine products (shampoo, deodorant, soap, sanitary supplies) will be donated to Terebinth Refuge which is a safe home that brings hope, healing, and freedom to sexually exploited and trafficked women. (www.TerebinthRefuge.org)
There will be a container in the Gathering Place starting March 16 and running through Easter Sunday. For more information contact Mary Barron-Traut at Trautline@gmail.com. Thanks for your generosity.

SPRING BLING SALE

Gathering in the Arts is holding its annual Bling Sale on Friday, May 3 from 4-7 pm in the Gathering Place. If you have been putting off cleaning your closets & jewelry boxes, this is a good time to consider doing it. We will be collecting new, vintage and slightly used jewelry, scarves & handbags beginning April 1 through April 28. Please place items outside the parish office in the designated boxes. Questions contact Geri 320-255-700

SPRING FOR STUDENTS

Dear SFX Parishioners,
As principal of St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, it is my pleasure to work with our faculty and staff to ensure all of our students receive an educational experience that establishes a firm foundation of academic excellence and a rich spiritual journey that focuses on the faith and values of the Catholic Church. I am excited to tell you about an important upcoming school event: I ask that you prayerfully consider making a gift to support our Spring for Students annual appeal. Each year, it takes $70,000 for St. Francis Xavier Catholic School to offer scholarships to our families so their children can receive the transformative and holistic Catholic education we provide. A third of our students rely on scholarship support to attend our school. You are invited to join our school community for our annual Spring for Students event at 5:45 p.m. on Friday, April 26 in the SFX Gathering Space. This is a free and inspiring event with drinks and appetizers as well as current and former students and families highlighting their SFX experiences.
Please RSVP directly to me if you can attend at hschloe@sfx61.org Or, if you cannot join us for the actual event, you can donate a gift for student scholarships directly on our parish website.
On behalf of our entire school, blessings to you and your family. Sincerely, Heidi Schloe, Principal

ST. PAUL’S MISSIONARY JOURNEY PILGRIMAGE

JOIN FR. STEVE BINSFELD & FOLLOW ST PAUL’S MISSIONARY JOURNEY SEPTEMBER 15-29, 2024
Walk the stones where Saint Paul walked through Athens and Corinth. Then set sail on a 9-night Celebrity Cruise through the Greek Isles continuing the journey as we visit six ports of call: Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos, Volos, Thessaloniki, and Kavala. Enjoy both private group tours and free time in Athens and on the cruise. Learn of the spiritual, historical, and cultural significance of Greece and Paul’s missionary journey. Mass is celebrated every day, especially in Corinth, Thessaloniki and Ephesus. This quality, customized tour is done through Magi Travel. Space is limited on this pilgrimage so sign up today! Call Magi Travel 952-949-0065 or visit the web at
www.magitravelinc.com and click on Greece, then Fr. Steve Binsfeld

ST. ROSE OF LIMA ROSARY GROUP

The St. Rose of Lima Rosary group meets the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month form 9:00-11:00 in Xavier Hall. Learn to make rosaries and all of the supplies are provided. Easy to learn, we will teach you! All rosaries are donated to missions around the world. Questions, call Nita Davis at 214-455-4301.

STEWARDSHIP

“Children, let us love not in word or speech but in deed and truth.” -1 John 3:18

Regarding our Catholic faith, do you “walk the talk? “Do your actions reflect what it means to be a good disciple? Are you an active participant at Sunday Mass? Are you joyful when participating in parish ministry? Do you give gratefully and generously with your financial support to your parish and other Church needs? If not, it’s not too late to start!

STRONGER TOGETHER

Stronger Together Presentation & Meal On Wednesday, March 27th from 6pm-9pm at Sacred Heart, 16+ are invited to join us for the presenter, Bethany Tollefson, DMP, MSN, RN, PHN. She will be speaking on how we can better support those who are struggling with mental health
concerns. A meal will be served during the talk. Please contact Deacon Joe if you have questions at 320-292-4857.

SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY

How Do I Live as a Christian in the Midst of a Pagan
Culture? Join us for a Bible study on First Corinthians at the St. Stephen Church Hall at 7:00 pm on the following Sundays: November 5, 12, 19; December 3; January 14, 21, 28; February 18, 25 and March 3, 10. Please call the St. Stephen parish office (320-251-1520) to register by September 30 so materials can be ordered. Cost: $30. Questions call Julie Gillen at 320-248-6823.

SUNDAY CELEBRATION IN THE ABSENCE OF A PRIEST

SCAP—-What is SCAP? It stands for Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest. As part of our One In Christ ACC goals work with the Worship Committee, and prompted by some near misses during the COVID months, we researched how we would respond if the scheduled celebrant for a weekend Mass was suddenly not available due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances, the assembly was already gathering for worship, and there was no time to find a substitute. in the Absence of a Priest.
As part of our One In Christ ACC goals work with the Worship Committee, and prompted by some near-misses during the COVID months, we researched how we would respond if the scheduled celebrant for a weekend Mass was suddenly not available due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances, the assembly was already gathering for worship, and there was no time to find a substitute.
Using the existing Rite for such celebrations, and adapting it to our settings, the deacons and several lay persons from our ACC parishes have recently had training for leading Sunday worship with Communion if the situation occurs. Though the Rite would include the day's readings and Communion with the Hosts reserved in the tabernacle, the Rite is intentionally different in various ways from Mass to avoid confusion and foster the importance of praying for priestly vocations.
Should this situation occur, we will do our best to communicate the lack of Mass at a given parish as best as we can, announce and post door signs that include the location of other Masses in the area, and provide a meaningful and approved celebration of the Word and of Holy Communion for those who cannot reasonably attend another church. In such circumstances beyond a person's control, the Sunday obligation is suspended for that day. As noted above, it is our fervent hope that we will never pull this off the shelf, but it's wise to be ready.
Communication methods will be our next focus in this effort. It has also prompted us to consider best ways to reach our parishioners in general where we can do better to keep you informed, inspired, and engaged. The months during COVID when public Masses were not available, we experienced what a central place the Eucharist plays . In these times of the national Eucharistic Revival, your prayers for vocations are especially welcome and valuable.

Small Groups are now forming to read & reflect

Monday Mornings at SFX Sartell 9-10:30am
March 11 & 18, April 1 & 8
Julie Bruns-Leader
Thursday Mornings at Annunciation 9:15 am
February 29, March 7, 15 & 22
Maureen & Roger Athman-Leaders
**New Opportunity Added!**
Wednesday Evenings in Sartell 6:30 pm
April 3, 10, 17, 24
Tom & Diane Offerdahl – Leaders
(Space is limited to 6 participants –
first come, first serve)
Please contact Sandee Kremers to sign up or if you have any
questions. 320-252-1363 or skremers@stfrancissartell.org

THANK YOU FROM SOCIAL JUSTICE

The Social Justice Concerns Committee offers a special thank you to all who donated personal hygiene, supplies for Terebinth Refuge (rehab for women who are sex trafficked) and the Dream Center (re-entry program for those getting out of jail) . Grateful for good neighbors!

VOLUNTEER

CentraCare St. Cloud Hospital is currently accepting applications for volunteers of all ages. Youth may begin volunteering as soon as they are 14 years of age. Volunteers serve as warm and friendly ambassadors for the Saint Cloud Hospital and all CentraCare by supporting staff and patients through a variety of tasks throughout our facilities. Please contact Volunteer Services at (320) 255-5638 for more information or apply online at www.centracare.com/volunteer. We hope to hear from you!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Homebound Ministers

We are looking for a few of YOU to answer the call to bring JOY to our Homebound parishioners. Might you be interested in bringing Eucharist and a friendly smile to someone? Please contact Sandee Kremers for more information.

WORD & COMMUNION MINISTERS NEEDED for Edgewood

We are looking for volunteers who might be interested in becoming a Word & Communion Leader at Edgewood. We need a minister who is available the second Tuesday of the month at 10:00 am. Training provided. Its a wonderful gift to be able to bring the Eucharist to those who are in the Assisted Living & Memory Care Units

YOUNG ADULTS Mass and Meal

Mass and Meal Join us at 4pm Mass on Saturday, April 27th at St. Francis Xavier and catch a meal with some other young adults. Meet in the Gathering Space after Mass, everyone is responsible for their own meal - contact Jason!

YOUNG ADULTS Praise Night

See you Sunday, April 28th from 4-6pm at our next Praise Night at St. Francis Xavier in Sartell. Praise and Worship, Adoration, food and friends!

YOUTH MINISTRY Castaway 2024

Castaway 2024 Friday, March 22–Sunday, March 24 at the Castaway Club in Detroit Lakes, MN for youth in grades 9-12. If you are interested in learning more about this retreat experience, please contact Jennifer before Wenesday, January 31st!
**Watch Flocknote for more information and details on these events**

Young Adult Praise Nights

Young Adult Praise Nights are debuting this month! All young adults (18-39), especially those with kids, come join us in Praise & Worship on the 4th Sunday of every month starting at 4:00 PM. Each month will feature Praise & Worship, Sacrament of Reconciliation and other prayer opportunities for everyone. The first one of the year is: Sunday, September 24th @ Sacred Heart. This event is in collaboration with All Called to Christ ACC.

Young Adult Team

We are now seeking additional members for the One in Christ young adult team! Those interested in visioning, planning, and executing events for young adult ministry will meet the following criteria:
   A Young Adult (18-39)
   Commit to bi-monthly meetings on the third Thursdays
   Associated with Annunciation (Mayhew Lake), St. Francis Xavier (Sartell), or St. Stephen
   [Bonus] if engaged, married, or married with kids
If interested in learning more about the team or young adult ministry, please contact Jason Prigge!

Youth Group Nights

April 28— Easter Egg Hunt 6:00-8:30pm. Grades 6-8 Welcome.

Youth Ministry Week of Service

Youth in grades 6-11 are invited to participate a week of Service this summer. We will be volunteering locally as well as having a day in the cities. Registration material will be sent on April 1.

“A Day Away” for Men and Women

Do you need some “ME” time to be in solitude with the Lord away from the business of life? Join us at the HOLY GROUND which is Christ the King Retreat Center, overlooking Buffalo Lake, for a day in a peaceful setting to “walk humbly with your God”. Optional guided meditations and conferences. Includes Lunch. Suggested Donation $30. Register online at www.kingshouse.com or call 763-682- 1394.

“Do This in Memory of Me.”

The Appeal supports ministries that benefit you, your family and your greater parish community. Please make a gift today. Each dollar raised goes directly to ministries that support our Catholic faith and is not used for any other purpose.