Dear Our Lady of Sorrows Parish Members:

One of the goals of the Information Directory is to improve and enhance communication and publicity within the parish.  We are addressing these issues in two specific ways.  First, we updated and improved the information about our parish given to new members.  Second, we are encouraging participation and involvement in parish ministries, organizations and programs.  This Information Directory describes the many ways to participate in our parish.

It is our hope that this Information Directory gives each parishioner an overview of all that makes up the Our Lady of Sorrows parish family.  We pray it helps you find your place in our parish community.  It is meant to be informational and we pray it is inspirational—for there are many people, who through a variety of ministries, organizations and programs, make our parish wonderful.  To paraphrase St. Paul, there are many gifts, but one body.  Together we make up that body, the Church in Christ, by sharing those gifts which have been given to us.

With the love and peace of Christ,

Msgr. Martin M. Muller

ADULT EDUCATION

All parishioners are invited to attend  the Adult Education Class 9:45 to 11:00 a.m. every Sunday that PSR is in session.  These meetings feature a speaker on a relevant religious topic, fellowship with coffee and snacks, and group interaction preceding and following the speakers presentation.  Keep current in your faith !

Contact:  Tommy James  747-0870

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS (AA)

This is an interfaith support group for men and women who suffer from an addiction, particularly alcohol.  This group meets weekdays at noon in the Scout Room.

ALTAR SERVERS

Participants in this ministry assist by serving at all Masses at OLS, including weddings and funerals.  This ministry is open to boys and girls from the 4th grade and up, and to  adults who are members of the parish.  Altar servers are fully trained through classes and actual practices before they are assigned to serve at Mass.  Occasionally, special programs, workshops or retreats are offered by the diocese for altar servers.  Altar servers are assigned to assist at Mass on a rotating schedule but will be assigned to Mass times as requested by the family.

Contact:  Kent Graeve 423-0092 or kentgraeve@yahoo.com

ALTAR SODALITY

All women of the parish are invited to become members of the Altar Sodality.  The two types of membership in the Altar Sodality are the active membership and the sustaining membership.  Active members are those affiliated with and active in a particular Altar Guild.  Sustaining members do not belong to a particular guild but pay annual dues as a sign of support for the Altar Sodality.  Sustaining members may also participate in any Altar Sodality or Altar Guild function.  In addition to supporting social and spiritual outreach events offered by individual Altar Guilds, the Altar Sodality sponsors three joint meetings each year for fellowship and special programs, a Day of Recollection for spiritual renewal and Fall and Spring projects for fundraising and fellowship.  The Altar Sodality Board consists of elected officers and a representative from each Altar Guild.  Board meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month from August through May.

Contact:  Chairman-Amy McRae 870-5377—706-6891 or amymcrae@earthlink.net

Co-Chairman-Angie Dunston 960-1413 or angiedunston@aol.com

ALTAR SODALITY GUILDS

MADONNA AND CHILD GUILD

Madonna and Child Guild meets for fellowship, to share and learn about parenting and to deepen members’ spiritual relationship with God.  Usually, members are mothers with young children who stay at home or work part-time.  Each year the guild decides which major service project will be done.  Meetings are held on the second Friday of each month, September through May, at 9 a.m. in the Sodality room.  A nursery is provided.

Contact:  Eleanor Turkiewicz  298-0988 or eturkiewicz@charter.net

OUR LADY OF FATIMA GUILD

Members of Our Lady of Fatima Guild meet for spiritual enrichment and fellowship.  At each meeting they pray the Rosary for special intentions and also provide support for each other through life’s ups and downs.  The members make Baptismal stoles for infants and also furnish food, clothing and toys for a needy family provided to them by the Catholic Center of Concern.  Meetings are held on the second Thursday of the month from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Sodality Room.

Contact:  Maria Lilly 823-3058

OUR LADY OF GRACE GUILD

Our Lady of Grace Guild meets on the second Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in the Sodality Room for lunch and fellowship.  We strive to grow spiritually in Christ through prayers, scripture readings and in varied service projects.  We provide canned goods and service hours for the Catholic Center of Concern.  Some ladies crochet for hospitals and nursing homes.  We donate toiletries, books and magazines for Centennial House at St. Vincent’s Hospital.  We are a diverse group of fun-loving women who pray for one another and welcome new members.

Contact:  Patti Echols  822-4043

IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY GUILD

Immaculate Heart of Mary Guild meets in the evenings so that working women have the opportunity to socialize and grow spiritually.  The members pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet at each meeting.  After the meeting, members enjoy dinner out.  Service projects include preparing meals for Ronald McDonald House families and making rosaries for First Communion, Confirmation and Adult RCIA classes.  Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.

Contact:  Wendy Green  492-7058 or wg0930@att.com

OUR LADY OF PEACE GUILD

Through fellowship, service and prayer, Our Lady of Peace Guild provides help and support to its members and others who are in need.  This Guild provides clothing and food to the Hispanic community.  Members have an annual coat drive and Christmas toy drive for the Hispanic Ministry.  Members supply the Thanksgiving pantry for the Dominican Monastery of St. Jude in Marbury, Al.  This guild meet the first Monday of the month at 12:00 p.m. in the Sodality Room.

Contact:  Lil Bruzzese  942-4431

ST. ANN’S GUILD

St. Ann’s Guild meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 a.m. in the Sodality Room.  Their goal is to grow spiritually through prayer and to support members and those in the community who are in need.  Projects include:  Thanksgiving dinner and donations to needy families; Shower of Blessings for the Pro-Life warehouse to include diapers, clothing, furniture, money, etc.; decorating the Chrismon tree at Christmas; helping with VIP luncheons; purchasing the Paschal candle at Easter; cleaning and care of the Sacristy and Sanctuary; and continuing the daily prayer chain for vocations and “Pennies  for Priests.”

Contact:  Martha Masucci  871-1094 or Antoinette Alfano  822-4228

ANNULMENT EDUCATION AND SUPPORT

Our mission is to educate Catholics and non-Catholics on the Rite of Nullity.  We  provide assistance and support for these individuals in the process of seeking a Formal Ecclesiastical Declaration of Nullity.  Meetings are held on a monthly basis, except for December, June, July and August.

Contact:  Anne Verchot  482-8627 or verchot@bellsouth.net

               David Asbach  383-5634 or daa28@aol.com

ATHLETICS FOR CHILDREN

The Athletics For Children Program involves student members of OLS Church and OLS School in grades 1 through 8.  The primary goal of the program is to provide a Christian environment where children can learn the benefits of working with their peers to accomplish team goals.  Emphasis is on building and developing skills in each respective sport.  Notices of individual sport sign-up dates and times are placed in the Church and school bulletins.  Parents and other adult volunteers are welcome to assist with this program.

Contact:  Bob Dodson  942-9231

AVE MARIA SHOPPE

The Ave Maria Shoppe is a religious goods and gift shop operated by volunteers.  The shop is located in the vestibule.  A beautiful selection of pictures, rosaries, crucifixes, medals, nativity scenes, statues, books and greeting cards are available.  Parishioners are welcome to come in and browse.  The shop is open every first and third Sunday from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and every Thursday morning after the 8:30 School Mass.

Contact:  Dawn Fullerton  879-3237

BEGINNING EXPERIENCE/NEW BEGINNINGS (Diocesan Program)

Beginning Experience is an international organization with over 130 teams.  A spiritually centered Christian weekend program, affiliated with the Catholic Church, it is offered to minister to the needs of divorced, separated and widowed persons and their children ages 7 to 19.  Locally, Beginning Experience weekends are held three times a year in Cullman, Al.  A weekly support program, New Beginnings, meets on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. in the Family Life Center.

Contact:  Helen Bowers  802-6216 or call voice mail 969-8509 for information

BIBLE STUDY

CATHOLIC SCRIPTURE STUDY

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Scripture Study (CSS) Class is held in the first floor Assembly Hall in the Family Life Center.  On Wednesday, September 23, 2009, the study of the Gospel of Matthew, using materials written by Scott Hahn and Mark Shea, will begin.

Contact:  Mark McCoy  661-3693

SPANISH BIBLE STUDY GROUP

This class has been existence for the past nineteen years and is directed by Father Ramon Salazar of Colombia.  With gratitude to Msgr. Martin Muller, this class is conducted each Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. in the Family Life Center.

BREAD FOR THE WORLD (Social Action)

BFW is a Christian Citizens Movement, which works to combat hunger nationally and internationally.  This is achieved through the dedication of parishioners who are willing to write letters to members of Congress in support of legislation, which will assist in eliminating hunger from the world.  For more information, go to:  www.bread.org.

Contact:  Peggy Sandlin  967-5154 or peggysandlin@aol.com

                Jeannette Bell  879-8169 or jeannette89@aol.com

CARING HANDS

A loose group that knits, crochets and prays every Thursday from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the Sodality Room.  Finished products are donated to those in need.  No officers, no duties, no requirements-fellowship and prayer only.

Contact:  Bernice Smith  979-1730

CATHOLIC CHARISMATIC RENEWAL (Diocesan Program)

Back in the early days of the church, the Charismatic Gifts were considered a normal part of worship (see I & II Corinthians).  After about 300 AD a more contemplative form of prayer evolved and the charismatic gifts were exhibited only by a few Saints during the next few thousand years.  In the early 1960’s the Pope prayed that the windows of the Catholic Church would be opened and a new spirit of evangelization would clear out the cobwebs.  A few years later a number of students from Duquesne University had a profound experience of the Holy Spirit and the Charismatic Movement was reborn in the Catholic Church.  The Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Birmingham meets every Thursday evening from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the Family Life Center.

For more information, please visit the website:  www.catholiccharismaticrenewal.org

CATHOLIC CHILDREN’S LEARNING CENTER

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Children’s Learning Center (CCLC) is a full-time care and learning center for children ages 6 weeks to 4 years of age (age as of September 1).  It is open 52 weeks a year from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. except weekends and official holidays.  A hot lunch and 2 snacks are provided daily.  The purpose of the CCLC is to offer full-time care and age appropriate child development activities in a nurturing, home-like Catholic environment.  OLS parishioners are given priority in placement, although the program is open to all children. CCLC is not part of Our Lady of Sorrows School, but is part of the Diocesan Catholic School System.  Placement in CCLC does not guarantee placement in the OLS Kindergarten.  Registration forms and information sheets are available at the OLS-CCLC front desk or they can be mailed to you upon request.

Contact:  Lynne Stella  380-2646

CHILDRENS’ EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Children’s Adoration is a half hour of adoration for children of all ages, including newborns and infants, and their caregivers.  It is held once a month in the Church and provides a comfortable and understanding atmosphere for children to practice quiet reverence before Our Lord.  Adoration includes a talk to the children by a priest, a decade of the rosary and benediction.  Through adoration, the children realize Christ’s true presence in the Eucharist and become more aware of His presence in the Mass.  This time is a wonderful opportunity to encourage your child’s faith and prayer life while fulfilling Christ’s command  to “Let the little children come to me ….” (Mark 10:14). 

Contact:  Kim Stephens  823-8886

CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD

This program offers the Liturgy of the Word for children who are in grades K-6 during the 8:30 a.m. Mass on Sundays when PSR is in session.  Following the opening prayer the children are dismissed to the Parish Hall for the Liturgy of the Word and Prayer of the Faithful.  The children then join their families upstairs in the Church during the Offertory Procession for the Liturgy of the Eucharist.  Children are encouraged to take an active role in the liturgies as cantors, lectors, greeters and “actors” when the homily calls for a skit or dramatic reading.  Each liturgy is planned to engage the children and encourage full, active and conscious participation.

Contact:  Greg Harber  251-2133 or gharber@mindspring.com

CHILDRENS’S LITURGY COMMITTEE

The primary goal of the Children’s Liturgy committee is to plan, prepare and present the Liturgy of the Word in a way that brings the readings and their meaning alive to the children of OLS and enhances their experience and understanding of the liturgy.  Some committee members are responsible for fully planning their assigned Sunday liturgy and providing all of the props and supplies needed for the effective presentation of the liturgy.  Other members help by setting up for liturgies and working with lectors.  This committee is open to any member of OLS who would like to serve God and the children of the parish in a meaningful way.  Meetings are held twice a year for planning and to assign liturgies and responsibilities.  A workshop and training session is offered in late August.

Contact:  Greg Harber  251-2133 or gharber@mindspring.com

CURSILLO / BIRMINGHAM (Diocesan Program)

Want to deepen your relationship with Christ?  And find the “tools” and “methods” to keep your spiritual life on track?  Then Cursillo might be for you.

Cursillo is a “short course in Christianity” held twice a year for separate men’s and women’s weekends at Sacred Heart Monastery in Cullman.  The weekend is full of great talks, Mass, confession, adoration, music, food, fellowship, and even a few wonderful surprises!  It is so much more than a retreat - it is an experience that you will never forget.  Our Lady of Sorrows holds our monthly Ultreya (for those who have attended Cursillo) gathering on the fourth Tuesday of every month in the Parish Hall beneath the church from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. with food, music, witness talk, and fellowship.  It is another way to keep your spiritual journey on the right path. 

Contact:  Patrick Crabtree  824-7722 ext. 1299 or pcrabtree@crabtreecomputer.com

EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION

Participants in this ministry distribute Holy Communion at all Masses at OLS and/or bring the Eucharist to the sick and shut-ins of the parish.  This ministry is open to all confirmed members of OLS who have been recommended by the pastor and approved by the bishop.  All participants are trained through a training class as necessary or requested.  Workshops, retreats and spiritual enrichment programs for Extraordinary Ministers are occasionally offered by the parish and diocese.  Extraordinary Ministers serve at Mass on a rotating schedule but will be assigned only to Mass times as requested by the Extraordinary Minister.

Contact:  Kent Graeve  423-0092 or kentgraeve@yahoo.com

FINANCE COMMITTEE

The Finance Committee is made up of parishioners appointed by the pastor who have knowledge and expertise in the area of finance.  It is the committee’s responsibility to advise the pastor of financial matters relating to the parish and to help prepare the annual budget.

Contact:  Msgr. Martin Muller  871-8121

FIRST LIGHT (Social Action)

The mission of First Light is to work with homeless women, their children and others at risk to create hospitality in a safe and nurturing community, encouraging them to maintain dignity and hope while seeking opportunity and growing spiritually.  Volunteers are asked to provide food, serve food, and/or stay overnight at the shelter.

Contact:  Leslie Bentley  985-1200 or lwbentley@bellsouth.net

FOURTH OF JULY FESTIVAL AND COMMITTEE

The annual Fourth of July Festival  is held on the school parking lot featuring barbecue and other great food, games and fellowship.  The Knights of Columbus #4304 provides overall coordination,  and committee chair people are made up of devoted parish groups and members.  Planning starts January 1st of each year.  It is a proud OLS tradition.

Contact:  Joe Falconer, Jr.  281-1831 or jfalconer@realtysouth.com

GROWING WITH GOD

Growing with God is the preschool “Bible-school” program for 2- and 3-year-old children that meets in the Catholic Children’s Learning Center (CLCC) on Sundays during the 10:00 a.m. Mass.  Each age-appropriate lesson helps children learn about God through music, crafts, stories, Scripture, prayer, creative play, and other activities based on His Word.  The children also meet and befriend other Catholic children of OLS parish as they play outside on the playground at the end of each class (weather permitting).  Registration is held in late August, in conjunction with PSR.  Classes begin in mid-September and continue through May.

Contact:  Ann Morel           426-2376

               Marna Dickinson  747-0455 

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY (Social Action)

An organization that enables parishioners to get “hands on” in the community by either repairing or building houses for those in need.  It also gives parishioners the experience of fellowship, while providing people in need a good home.

Contact:  Chris Alexander  220-2180

HER CHOICE WOMEN’S CENTER (Diocesan Program)

Her Choice is a women’s crisis pregnancy center.  We see women and men who are in a crisis pregnancy.  Some are abortion minded.  We provide free pregnancy tests and ultrasound.  We also offer pregnancy options education.  We provide classes about pregnancy, childbirth, and healthy lifestyles where clients earn “mommy money” to spend in our Petals Boutique for baby items including clothing, diapers, bath items, bedding, cribs, high chairs, strollers and car seats.  The center is staffed for the most part by volunteers.

Contact:  252-0706 and to learn more visit www.herchoicebirmingham.org

KAIROS OUTSIDE (Social Action)

Kairos Outside is designed to support female family members of men and women who are incarcerated.  We want to let them know that there is a Christian community who cares about them and their needs.

Contact:  Wayne Buckley  942-4644

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS COUNCIL 4304

An organization of Catholic men whose purpose is to provide service,  fraternity and a patriotic means of aiding the Catholic Church family.  Goals are to preserve and enhance the Catholic religion, to provide special support for priesthood vocations, respect for life,  and to aid the “not so fortunate.”  Men ages 18 years and up are eligible for membership.  Some of the major events sponsored by the Knights of Columbus are:  Intellectual Disabilities Tootsie Roll Drive, blood drives for the parish, leadership for the annual Fourth of July Festival, Keep Christ in Christmas poster contest and the Lenten Fish Frys.  The business meetings for members are held on the first Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the K of C building.

Contact:  Grand Knight  John Spratley  420-8387

LECTORS

Participants in this ministry proclaim the Word of God at all Masses, including holy days of obligation and special liturgical celebrations.  Lectors are fully trained through a training class and practices before they are assigned to read at Mass.  Each lector is provided reading material and a workbook to assist the him or her in becoming as proficient as possible in this important ministry of proclaiming God’s inspired word to His people.  Lectors are assigned to read at Mass on a rotating schedule but are assigned only to Mass times as requested by the lector.

Contact:  Kent Graeve  423-0092 or kentgraeve@yahoo.com

MAGNIFICAT

Magnificat is a ministry to Catholic women.  Its purpose is to help Catholic women open more to the Holy Spirit through a deeper commitment of their lives to Jesus as Lord and to impart the Holy Spirit to one another by their love, service, and sharing the good news of salvation.   Magnificat meets quarterly with dates to be announced in the bulletin.

Contact:  Carolyn Wright  941-0144

MOTHER’S DAY OUT

The Mother’s Day Out Program is designed to provide children ages 6 weeks to 4 years old with an opportunity to participate in a playground atmosphere.  This program is operated in the church nursery on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 9:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. with extended hours (until OLS school dismissal) available.  Holidays follow the OLS School schedule.  A summer session is also available.  Fees are charged to cover operating expenses.

Contact:  Angie Dunston  871-3253 (Nursery)

MUSIC

FOLK GROUP

The Folk Group is open to anyone who likes to sing; reading music is not a requirement.  Members of this ministry pray together and strive to enhance the prayer and worship of the congregation at Mass through music.  The Folk Group leads singing for the 6:00 p.m. Sunday Mass.   Rehearsals are on Thursday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in the church.  Members may attend diocesan music workshops.  In addition, the Folk Group has periodic social gatherings which always include prayer and singing.  All ages are welcome.

Contact:  Kenny Sutton               940-3509

               Ann Dominick Hardin  870-9982

ADULT CHOIR

The Adult Choir is open to all members of the parish from age 15 years  and older.  This choir sings for the 10:00 a.m. Sunday Mass, Christmas Eve Mass, Holy Week Masses and for other liturgical celebrations.  Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. in the Music Room.  Training and preparation are covered during the weekly rehearsals with some education as to the composer and style of the music being sung.  Members may also participate in Diocesan Masses, such as funerals, Rite of Election, the Chrism Mass and ordinations of priests.  In 1993, the Adult Choir made a pilgrimage to Rome, Italy, where they served as the principal choir for the 10:30 a.m. High Latin Liturgy at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican city, and in May 2000 they visited Oberammergau, Germany, to witness their Passion Play which is held every ten years.

Contact:  Lee Wright  261-8103

CHILDREN’S CHOIR

The Children’s Choir sings at the 8:30 a.m. Mass once a month.  In addition, the Children’s Choir participates at a  Christmas Eve Mass and on Easter morning at the 8:30 a.m. Mass.  The choir is directed by Alexandra Naylor and meets in the Music Room on Wednesday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.  Please call for registration and additional information.

Contact:  Alexander Naylor  871-8121

NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING, DIOCESAN ADVOCATE

The group provides classes on natural family planning, a medically safe and effective way to postpone or achieve pregnancy that is normally acceptable by the church.  They  also provide speakers on natural family planning and the Church’s teaching on marital sexuality.

Contact:  Harold & Cathy Gray  631-0568 or kagray222@hotmail.com

               Greg & Isabel Reaves  979-6104

               

NURSERY

A nursery, staffed by adults with high school age students as helpers, is available during the 8:30, 10:00 and 11:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Sunday Masses.  It is also available, as needed, for OLS Church sponsored religious events such as RCIA, First Communion, First Reconciliation, Confirmation, Missions, Sodality meetings and special liturgical celebrations.  Announcements concerning the activities when a nursery will be provided will be in the weekly bulletin.  If warranted, the nursery may be scheduled by church organizations for their special spiritual events or meetings.

Contact:  Brenda Matherne  822-7290 (Home) or 871-3252 (Nursery)

OUR LADY OF SORROWS SCHOOL

Our Lady of Sorrows is a regional school serving the following parishes:  Our Lady of Sorrows, St. Peter’s, St. George and St. Elias.  Children are enrolled in grades K – 8.  The main goal of the school is to provide a challenging curriculum in the academic areas and religious education, and to foster service to others, both within and outside the school community.  The school Parent/Teacher Organization (PTO) enlists the help and participation of parents/volunteers in many phases of school life.  Enrollment dates are announced in parish bulletins, at Masses and in the One Voice.  An Open House is usually held in January.  Information flyers and fact sheets are available through the school office.  Website:  www.olsschool.com.

Contact:  Mrs. Mary Jane Dorn, Principal  879-3237 or mjdorn@olsschool.com

OLS AFTER-SCHOOL CARE PROGRAM

This program is available to all OLS students for after-school purposes.  The cost is $7.00 per day for 1 child, $13.00 for 2 children in a family and $19.00 per day for 3 or more children in a family.  After school hours are from dismissal time until 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Contact:  Mrs. Vivian Bonamy 879-3237

OLS WEE KINDERGARTEN

Our Lady of Sorrows Wee Kindergarten is part of OLS School and as such serves the parishes of Our Lady of Sorrows, St. Peter’s, St. George and St. Elias.  This pre-school program is offered for both three- and four-year-old children.  The primary focus of the Wee Kindergarten is to build a firm foundation that will help children meet their potential spiritually, academically, physically, socially and emotionally.  The 3-year-old program is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  The 4-year-old, program offers a three day program (Monday, Wednesday, Friday) and a five day program, both 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Contact:  OLS School Office  879-3237

OLS SCHOOL BOARD

The OLS School Board is made up of representatives from each of the four parishes served by the OLS School.  The School Board serves in an advisory capacity to the pastor of OLS  Church and to the principal of the school in formulating and evaluating educational, financial and administrative policy for the OLS School.  Nominations of the OLS Church representatives to the School Board are held annually in the spring.  Each School Board Member serves for a three-year term and must have at least one child attending the school.

Contact:  Mrs. Mary Jane Dorn, Principal  879-3237

PARISH COUNCIL

The twelve members of the OLS Parish Council serve in an advisory capacity to the pastor on matters relating to parish policy, programs and goals.  Five parish council members are elected to staggered 3 year terms.  (Nominations are held in the spring).  The other seven members are appointed and represent the Sodality (2 members), Knights of Columbus (2 members), and Parish School of Religion (3 members).  To serve on the Parish Council you must be at least 16 years of age and a registered member of the parish for at least 2 years.

Contact:  Anne Yuengert  521-8362

PARISH SCHOOL OF RELIGION

The Our Lady of Sorrows Parish School of Religion offers formation in the Catholic faith for young people in grades Pre-K through 8th grade who are not attending a Catholic school.  Classes meet 30 Sundays during the school calendar year, primarily from 10:00 to 11:15 a.m. (with two meeting from 8:30 – 9:45 a.m.).  Registration for enrollment begins June 1st and can be done online at the PSR website: www.ourladyofsorrowspsr.com.  Our primary goal, through prayer and catechesis, is to lay the foundation which fosters a deep participation in the sacramental life of the Church.  We believe, with John Paul II, that “the definitive aim of catecheses is to put people in touch, in intimacy and communion, with the person of Jesus Christ” (Apostolic Letter, Catechesis in Our Time, 5).

Contact:  Elizabeth Sutton, OLS PSR Director of Religious Education—871-1431

               Sarah Pflaum, PSR Administrative Assistant  871-1431 or

               psr@ourladyofsorrows.com

PERPETUAL EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

The purpose of Perpetual Eucharist Adoration is to praise, honor and love Our Lord and make reparation to His Sacred Heart for the sins of the world.  The Blessed Sacrament is exposed in the monstrance continuously with committed adorers present 24 hours a day, seven days a week in the Chapel of Our Savior.  This chapel is located in the lower ground level of the OLS office building.  You are welcomed and encouraged to spend time with the Lord by committing on a regular basis one hour a week in the Chapel of Our Savior or by making a visit anytime.  For scheduling an hour of adoration, please call the contacts below.

Contact:  Ida Wilder  879-7040

               Mary Claire Brouillette  871-2909 or stclairb@bellsouth.net

PRAYER GROUPS

REJOICE IN THE LORD PRAYER GROUP

This prayer group, which is part of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, has met continuously since January of 1971.  They meet for worship, intercessory prayer and to learn more about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.  All are welcome.  The group meets each Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. in the Family Life Center.

Contact:  Olga Coburn  822-4366

CENTERING PRAYER GROUP

Centering prayer is a method of silent prayer that prepares us to receive the gift of contemplative prayer, prayer in which we experience God’s presence within us.  This prayer, beyond words, images, and concepts has been part of the Catholic Contemplative tradition for hundreds of years.  This method of prayer is both a relationship with God and a discipline to foster that relationship.  The source of Centering Prayer, as in all methods leading to contemplative prayer, is the Indwelling Trinity:  Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  The focus of Centering Prayer is the deepening of our relationship with the living Christ.  The effects of Centering Prayer are ecclesial, as the prayer tends to build communities of faith and bond the members together in mutual friendship and love.  Centering Prayer does not replace other kinds of prayer.  Rather, it adds depth of meaning to all prayer and facilitates movement beyond conversation with Christ to communion with Him. The Centering Prayer Group meets on Mondays at 6:30 p.m. in the OLS Family Life Center. 

Contact:  Jeannette Bell  879-8169 or jeannette89@aol.com

PROLIFE COMMITTEE

This committee provides educational and resource information and materials to the parish.  They are actively seeking members,

Contact:  Kay Hill                 916-1094

               Stephanie McGhee  978-0015

PSR CATECHISTS

Catechists for the Parish School of Religion are adult parishioners who are called by the Spirit to share their faith with the young people of Our Lady of Sorrows.  Catechist meetings and training sessions are offered throughout the year.  In addition, catechists are encouraged to attend workshops, retreats and spiritual enrichment programs offered by the Diocese of Birmingham.  Parishioners interested in becoming catechists should contact the PSR office.

Contact:  Elizabeth Sutton 871-1431 or psr@ourladyofsorrows.com

RCIA (RITE OF CATHOLIC INITIATION OF ADULTS) The RCIA program at Our Lady of Sorrows is designed primarily for adults who are interested in becoming a member of the Catholic Church.  However, anyone who would like to deepen his or her understanding and knowledge of the Catholic faith is welcome to attend.  Through use of lecture, small group discussion, books and videos, the RCIA program covers a wide range of topics including Church History, Prayer, Sacraments, Holy Scripture, Morality, Church Ministry Today and Doctrines of the Church.  In addition, members of the program, their sponsors and group leaders have the opportunity to share prayer, faith journeys and friendship in the context of a caring Christian community.  RCIA meets on Mondays from October through April at 7:00 p.m. at the Church Hall.  A nursery is available for those who need child care at no cost.

Contact:  Msgr. Martin Muller  871-8121

               Anne Verchot  979-0486 or verchot@bellsouth.net

SACRISTANS

The Sacristans are members of the OLS Altar Sodality who keep sanctuary items polished, cleaned and in good repair for all liturgical celebrations in the church.  Linens, vestments, albs, candles, carpets and the confessionals are maintained by the Sacristans.  This ministry “keeps house” for the Lord.  New volunteers work with trained Sacristans their first several times.  Sacristans are usually scheduled to work two Saturday mornings every six weeks.

Contact:  Jude Tombrello, Head Sacristan  967-9981

SCOUT PROGRAM

Cub Scout Pack 237

Boy Scouts Pak 237 is sponsored by OLS School and emphasizes duty to God and country, helping others and development of skills while having fun.  It is open to boys in grades 1 – 5 with preference given to OLS students although others are welcome to join.  Enrollment of new cubs is held at the start of each school year.  Parents are recruited to work with the boys.  Training is provided to these volunteers by the Birmingham Area Boy Scout Office.

Contact:  Donald Fleming  879-9253 or marcydon@msn.com

SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE

Parishioners involved in this committee participate in the service, outreach programs and mission work of interest to each individual.  Nine groups make up the S.A.C. and those include:  Rosedale Community, Bread for the World, First Light, Kairos,  Habitat for Humanity, Soup Kitchen, Youth Missions and Special Events.  Anyone who is interested in being involved is encouraged to pick up a pamphlet located in the vestibule.  The S.A.C. enables people to feed and shelter the hungry (either physically or through legislation), give emotional support to families of the incarcerated, build and repair homes for the poor, give a helping hand to the elderly and to clean up our local communities.

Contact:

SOUP KITCHEN (Social Action)

The “Soup Kitchen” is located in Woodlawn at Grace Episcopal Church and provides meals on a daily basis for fifty to seventy five people that are less fortunate.  A volunteer team (5-6 people) will cook and serve two Saturdays per year.

Contact:  Susan Ceyete  979-3216 or sceyete@aol.com

USHERS

Ushers at OLS serve during Mass in the following ways:  seat people for Mass, take up the collection, bring the collections to the altar during the offertory procession, select gift-bearers to bring the bread and wine to the altar, distribute bulletins after Mass and assist worshipers, before, during and after Mass.  Men ages 18 and older, with sufficient knowledge of the Mass, may serve.  New Ushers are guided through their first experience by trained Ushers.  Ushers are scheduled for Saturday, Sunday and Holy Day Masses.

Contact:  Joe Falconer, Jr.  281-1831  or jfalconer@realtysouth.com

               Gil Bentley          985-1200

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

This one-week program is offered in June for children ages Pre-K through 4th grade.  Prayer, music, catechesis and crafts are all experienced in a format that nourishes the student’s love and understanding of God and His Church.  This program is made possible by the generosity of time and talent of many adult and high school volunteers.

Contact:  Elizabeth Sutton  871-1431 or psr@ourladyofsorrows.com

VIP (VERY IMPORTANT PERSONS)

The Church sponsors a social for senior adults seven times a year.  Mass is followed by lunch and bingo.  The OLS Altar /Sodality serve lunch assisted by the 8th grade students from our school.  Watch the bulletin for dates.  All seniors are welcome.

Contact:  Sr. Pat Sullivan  871-8121

YOUTH PROGRAMS

HIGH SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP

High School Youth Group serves as primary catecheses for students who have already made their Confirmation and are interested in moving into a more mature faith.  Through teaching, community-building, prayer and service projects, we strive to build a parish home for students.  There are two options for students:  Sunday morning PSR time (10:00 – 11:15) or Sunday evenings (7:00 – 8:45) during the school year.  There are also special retreats, service projects and trips offered throughout the year.

Contact:  Chelsea Piper  871-8120

MIDDLE SCHOOL YOUTH GROUP

Public, home-schooled and Catholic school students are invited to participate in the Middle School Youth Group.  The youth group supplements religious education by building community among students, exploring types of prayer and preparing students for high school ministry.  The group meets the first and third Monday evenings during the school year from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. in the Family Life Center.

Contact:  Chelsea Piper  871-8120