Saint Cloud Theology on Tap

Next Theology On Tap, Tuesday December 13th

2011-11-30T11:31:00.005-06:00

December 13th is our next get together. Cara Sandquist, CSB alumna and local educator, will be speaking about her former volunteer work in Tanzania. Having lived and worked in an African Benedictine convent for 9 months, Cara served the sisters of Imiliwaha, Tanzania, focusing on the children housed at the local sister-run orphanage. She will share her experience working in a faithful yet impoverished community, and also the role the Catholic church plays in the Tanzanian society.

Join us for dinner, drinks, conversation, and fun. Come for great company and remember to bring a friend. Fun starts at 7pm.

Next Theology On Tap, Tuesday November 8th

2011-10-31T14:42:00.003-05:00

November 8th is our next get together!

Sr. Carol Viring OSF, who runs Centro Hispano out of St. Joseph's Church in Waite Park, will be speaking.

Centro Hispano ministers to the Hispanic population in the greater St. Cloud area and just celebrated 10 years of ministry. Sr. Carol will speak on her work and the issues facing Hispanics these days.

Join us for dinner, drinks, conversation, and fun. Come for great company and remember to bring a friend. Fun starts at 7pm.

We are in a new location at The American Burger Bar in St. Joseph (2010 County Road 75 St. Joseph, MN). Look forward to seeing you. Come early and stay late.

May the Lord Bless you until then!

Next Theology On Tap, Tuesday October 11th

2011-09-29T16:23:00.005-05:00

October 11th is our next get together. Larry Tillemans, United States Army typist (retired) will be presenting, "Remembering the Holocaust".

Larry was a typewriter clerk for the US Army in the war crime trials at Dachau and Nuremberg during the second world war. Larry is the last "living" typist form the trials.

He will be speaking about his experiences in the trials and the importance of never forgetting the Holocaust.

He will also be speaking on the power of prayer and the role it has played in his life.

I am very excited to have Larry join us. He is a great man who is always filled with joy.

Join us for dinner, drinks, conversation, and fun. Come for great company and remember to bring a friend. Fun starts at 7pm.

We are in a new location at The American Burger Bar in St. Joseph (2010 County Road 75 St. Joseph, MN). Look forward to seeing you. Come early and stay late.

May the Lord Bless you until then!

Next Theology On Tap, September 13th

2011-09-03T15:44:00.004-05:00

September 13th is our next get together. Fr. Tom Knoblach, Pastor of the Holy Spirit, St. John Cantius, and St. Anthony cluster will be speaking. His topic, "Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory" is sure to be one you won't want to miss!

This is your chance to ask the questions you've never had answered.

Join us for dinner, drinks, conversation, and fun. Come for great company and remember to bring a friend. Fun starts at 7pm.

We are in a new location at The American Burger Bar in St. Joseph (2010 County Road 75 St. Joseph, MN). Look forward to seeing you. Make sure to bring an appetite for food and theology. Come early and stay late.

Note: Fr. Tom has to leave at 7:45pm so we are going to be beginning right at 7pm.

May the Lord Bless you until then!

http://deaconjohn1987.blogspot.com/2010/11/on-lord-second-coming.html

Next Theology On Tap, August 9th

2011-07-30T19:06:00.018-05:00

August 9th is our next get together. Fr. Jerry Mischke (retired) will be speaking. His topic, "Reconciliation and the Eucharist: Receiving Grace in a State of Grace" is sure to be one you won't want to miss!

Join us for dinner, drinks, conversation, and fun. Come for great company and remember to bring a friend. Fun starts at 7pm.

We are in a new location at Old Chicago (4040 2nd Street South). Look forward to seeing you. Make sure to bring an appetite for food and theology. Come early and stay late.

http://yearintheoffice.files.wordpress.com/2011/04/tv_eucharist.jpg?w=457&h=349

Next Theology On Tap, July 12th

2011-07-07T20:26:00.001-05:00

July 12th is our next get together. George Sjogren, director of the Office of Stewardship and Development for the Diocese of St. Cloud and executive director of The Catholic Foundation, will be our speaker. He will talk about what stewardship really means and how it isn't just about money. He is very passionate and enthusiastic. He hopes that there will be good discussion with the people around the table.

Join us for dinner/drinks/conversation and fun. Come for great company and remember to bring a friend!" Fun starts at 7pm at The House of Pizza (downtown).

Next Theology on Tap, June 14th

2011-05-25T17:34:00.006-05:00

June 14th is our next get together. Fr. Tony Oelrich from St. Mary's Cathedral will be speaking. His topic, "Still Driving out Demons: Exorcisms and the Church" is sure to be one you won't want to miss! Feel free to bring questions! Join us for dinner/drinks/conversation and fun. Come for great company and remember to bring a friend!" Fun starts at 7pm at The Ground Round. Look forward to seeing you. Make sure to bring an appetite for food and theology. Come early and stay late. Remember tuesdays are 2 for 1 burgers!

2011-05-12T08:47:00.000-05:00

May 14: “World’s largest garage sale” at SCSU
May 6-15: Brother’s Grimm presented at the Paramount Theater
May 19: Enrichment night at the Franciscan Welcoming House– Come and learn about the volunteers and the year they’ve spent in service. 6-8 pm dinner included. Please RSVP by May17 #320-339-0307.
May 25: Grand opening of the Habitat for Humanity ReStore!!! Stop in and support this excellent ministry!
May 31: Feast of the Visitation
June 14: Next T.O.T. 7pm @ the Ground Round

**As the warmer weather comes in, this month might be a meaningful one to go and visit the grasshopper chapel in Cold Spring to learn the story of locusts, community prayer and the way it led to MN’s day of prayer on April 26.**

Next Theology on Tap! May 10

2011-04-28T15:37:00.006-05:00

Join us for Theology on Tap at the Ground Round on Tuesday May 10th at 7pm. Mary Forman, OSB will present on foundational women in the Church as a counterpart to last month's discussion on the Patristics.Feel free to bring questions! Join us for drinks/dinner/conversation and fun. Feel free to bring a friend or come for great company.

An overview:
In the history of women leaders in the church there are a number of women, who served as presiders of house churches in the first generations of Christianity. In the next era after Christianity was approved as a religion of the empire, women called “ammas” emerged as leaders of prayer groups, Bible study groups, spiritual directors and leaders of ascetical/monastic communities. After an opening overview on some of these significant women and their contributions, implications of these contributions can be explored and dialogued.

We hope to see you there!

A lot happening in preparation for Easter!

2011-04-14T11:52:00.003-05:00

April 14: (Tonight!) Chrism Mass at St. Cloud Cathedral
April 15: Fish Fry @ St. Anthony's in St. Cloud & the Church of St. Joseph in St. Joseph
April 16: Prayer vigil for equality in the justice system 10 am. Contact Mike at mmonnens@gmail.com for meeting time/place.
April 21: Seder Meal at the St. Peter's in St. Cloud- 5:30pm
April 22: Tenebrae Service @ St. Mary's Cathedral- 8 pm
*Earth Day*
April 30: 'Let the Sun Shine' fun run benefit @ St. Boniface Parish in Cold Spring. Proceeds go to support mental health research & suicide prevention. Click here for more info.
May 2: Taste of St. Cloud to benefit the Franciscan Community Volunteers, @ the Territory Golf Course in St. Cloud from 5:30-7 pm. Tickets $25 click here for more info
May 10: Next Theology on Tap speaker-Mary Forman, OSB: "Desert Amas, Foundational Women in the Church." Ground Round in St. Cloud @ 7pm
**Theology on Tap t-shirts still available. Conatact Michael mjbrixius@gmail.com**

April Theology on Tap

2011-03-30T08:57:00.001-05:00

Join Theology on Tap at the Ground Round on Tuesday April 12 from 7-8 pm. at the St. Cloud Ground Round. Dr. Charles Bobertz will be presenting on the Patristics. Dr. Bobertz is a Deacon and a professor of Theology at St. John's University and School of Theology.
Tuesdays are two for one burger night, so bring a friend or come and make some new ones. We hope to see you there!

[*Part two of this series will take place on May 10 when Mary Forman, OSB presents on Desert Amas]

March Updates

2011-03-09T10:47:00.003-06:00

Be sure to check out the Visitor for lots of Lenten opportunities: Mass, soup suppers, fish frys, reconciliation services as well as retreats and discussion groups. Click here to view.
or
Grab a copy of the Bishop's Pastoral Letter: As I Have Done for You (available in most parishes--don't see it? Ask for one!)

St. Joseph's in Waite Park is hosting Wednesday night Soup Suppers. If interested in attending or cooking for one, please contact mmonnens@gmail.com

March 17- Happy St. Patty's Day!

Friday March 18- Art Crawl on St. Germain

March 19- Happy Feast of St. Joseph!

Sunday March 20- Empty bowls @ Calvary Community Church noon-6pm. $10 donation for bowl of soup and pottery you can keep. Proceeds go to support Place of Hope.

Thursday March 24- Franciscan Sisters are offering dinner and Taize prayer from 6-8 pm at the Franciscan Welcoming House (1600 11th Ave So. St. Cloud). Please RSVP by March 22. Call #320-229-0307.

Theology on Tap t-shirts available for $12! For more info, e-mail mjbrixius@gmail.com

Those interested in attending the 2011 Taste of St. Cloud benefitting the Franciscan Community Volunteers, can purchase tickets online here.

If you have events/announcements you'd like added to this list, please contact saintcloudtot@gmail.com

Lots of Talk on Liturgy Changes--Come Find Out More

2011-03-01T11:49:00.003-06:00

Join Anita Fischer and Theology on Tap at the St. Cloud Ground Round at 7 pm on Tuesday March 8 for discussion on the upcoming changes to the Liturgy. Come early for dinner/appetizers, stay late for great conversation. Please feel free to join us for the first time, bring friends or pass the word along. Hope to see you next Tuesday!

Morning Awakening

2011-02-03T10:05:00.003-06:00

Saturday February 12 from 9am-noon, head over to St. Joseph's in Waite Park for some sampling of delicious Fair Trade products including (but not limited to) chocolate and coffee!
See you there!

Lots to do: Events in February

2011-01-27T14:43:00.004-06:00

Feb 3rd 6-8 pm:
Dynamic National Speaker To Present in St Cloud on “Diversity, Privilege, and Leadership”

Create CommUNITY will offer a presentation by Dr Eddie Moore Jr. entitled “Diversity, Privilege and Leadership: Are We Making Any Progress?” on Thursday, February 3rd, 2011, from 6-8 pm at the SCSU Welcome Center (355 5th Ave South, St. Cloud).

February 8, 7-8 pm: Theology on Tap meets at the Ground Round 2621 West Division Street St. Cloud. Work and Faith: Navigating the Challenges of Finding and Maintaining a Job in These Economic Times

Feb 13, 7 pm: Intimacy v. Sexualtiy- Bob Bartlett @ St. Anthony's

Feb 17, JRLC Day on the Hill: Join faithful Minnesotan Catholics, Muslims, Jews and Christians by spending a day at the capital advocating for those for whom our traditions teach us to care. To learn more click here. Many area parishes have buses set up to drive, however if you cannot find a ride, please contact saintcloudtot@gmail.com

Feb 26: Tables for Two- Contact Sacred Heart Parish in Sauk Rapids for tickets to this evening for married couples. Link.

February 27, 7 pm: Frank Runyeon to speak on Faith & the Media at St. Anthony's in St. Cloud

Gift of Self

2011-01-27T08:46:00.002-06:00

In a recent conversatioin with a Red Cross employee, I learned that 14,000 blood donation appointments have been cancelled in the month of January in Minnesota because of the bad weather. If you are a blood donor or have ever wanted to be, this would be a great month to stop in.
St. Cloud Red Cross hours are:

The Central Minnesota Chapter of the American Red Cross proudly announces the new Blood Services Area has been completed within our newly remodeled St Cloud Chapter House. With generous donor areas offering more space and privacy and a huge parking area, our professional and friendly staff is here to make your blood donation a delightful experience! We invite you to come in and save someone's life today!

Hours of Operation
(Chapter Office Location)
Monday 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Thursday 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 2:00pm

Sledding with Theology on Tap--date change**

2011-01-03T12:16:00.003-06:00

Join Theology on Tap for some great winter fun at Powder Ridge on Saturday January 22. Tubing will begin at 6 p.m. Dinner to follow at Applebees. If you've not been to Powder Ridge, the address is 15015 93rd Avenue Kimball, MN. Carpooling is preferred, please contact jason.stock@master-custom-homes.com for more information.

Dress warm and bring friends. Hope to see you there!

January 11th Gathering

2010-12-28T11:47:00.002-06:00

Join us at 7 pm on January 11th for a look ahead at 2011 for Theology on Tap. You're invited to join us at the Ground Round as we take a look at the topics and activities that the group would like to see this year.
That said, please come with some creativitity:
-have you heard a great local speaker? Tell us!
-do you know of any cool retreat centers you'd like to check out? Let us know!
-is there a new topic/issue that you'd like to hear more about- suggest it!
The best way for this group to continue to meet the needs of its members is to know the needs of its members. So whether you've never come before or if you come at every opportunity, your perspective is equally important.

Hope to see you there!

2010-12-01T10:09:00.003-06:00

(Pic)
Wednesday, December 22 · 6:00pm - 11:30pm
Come and help spread the Holiday Cheer by caroling!

Be sure to bring your favorite dish to share. Potluck begins as soon as we return from caroling!!!

Directions to Jason's from HWY 15:

Turn West on County Road 120 at Hennen's. Travel past Gold's Gym and Turn Left on West Oakes Drive. Travel past the Four Way Stop and it is the Fourth House on the Right.

December ToT: RCIA for Cradle Catholics

2010-11-19T11:48:00.004-06:00

Maybe you had a powerful conversion experience and joined the church through RCIA just recently. Or, perhaps you've been Catholic since infancy and for just as long,have been perplexed by RCIA (the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults); adults leaving during Mass to discuss Scripture, being 'elected,' and grown-up baptisms at Easter vigil. If you fit into either category, you'll enjoy hearing Fr. Nicholas Becker, OSB present "RCIA for cradle Catholics." Come, hear about one of the most beuatiful ministries of the church and get to the bottom of some commonly-misunderstood traditions.
Hope to see you at the Ground Round at 7 pm on December 14, 2010.

ToT in the media!

2010-11-18T16:40:00.002-06:00

St. Cloud TOT will be featured in the upcoming Visitor (pp. 5). Check it out and listen to an interview with Jason & Katie tomorrow at 5 pm on KYES AM 1180.

Join us

2010-11-12T13:19:00.003-06:00

Sunday November 28 at 6 pm the Poor Clare sisters of Sauk Rapids have invited the St. Cloud Theology on Tap group to visit them at their convent. The poor Clares live a cloistered life (meaning, their ministry is prayer and takes place primarily in the convent walls). Generally only a handful of nuns meet with visitors--this is a unique invitation!

"The first thing you need to know is that a Poor Clare is a nun - meaning that she lives in one monastery (usually) for her whole life. She takes solemn vows that can only be dispensed by Rome. BUT the second thing you have to know - is that a Poor Clare Nun is not a Benedictine, Dominican, Visitation or Carmelite nun. She is a Poor Clare nun.There is a world of difference between these other beautiful orders and Poor Clares.NO, not all nuns are alike." Click here for more info.

If you'll be back from Thanksgiving travels and can plan to be a part of this visit, you will be glad you did. Following the visit, we'll stop for dinner in Sauk Rapids. Please e-mail saintcloudtot@gmail.com so that we can plan car pooling arrangments as there is limited parking. Hope you can make it!

Next TOT November 9th

2010-11-01T11:24:00.003-05:00

November 9th at the Ground Round in St. Cloud, join us for great food and conversation on the Church, Galaxies & Galileo. 7-8:30 p.m.
Come early or stay late--please feel free to bring a friend or two!

BYOP (Pumpkin)

2010-10-05T13:09:00.003-05:00

(Image)
Friday October 29, you're invited to a pumpkin-carving pot-luck at Peter's new house! Bring a pumpkin and a dish to pass at 6 pm on Friday evening. Peter lives in St. Augusta, but please e-mail saintcloudtot@gmail.com for directions to his house if you plan to attend. Feel free to bring friends.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

October's Theology on Tap: The Saint John's Bible

2010-09-21T09:09:00.003-05:00

(Picture)

St. Cloud's Theology on Tap group invites you to join us on October 12 for a presentation on the Saint John's Bible Project, including a tour of the museum library. The Saint John's bible is the first hand-written bible since the invention of the printing press, 500 years ago. Whether you have seen the illuminated Bible before or not, it is a local treasure and a treat for the eyes. For more information e-mail saintcloudtot@gmail.com or look for e-mails related to our on-location gathering.

Art Crawl tomorrow

2010-09-16T08:52:00.003-05:00

St. Cloud's Fall Art Crawl is taking place tomorrow from 5-9 pm on St. Germain. Many artists and musicians will be present to display their work. Bring a friend and check it out. See link for more details.

Oktoberfest

2010-09-08T16:11:00.002-05:00

8th Annual Oktoberfest Party...in September!
When: Saturday, September 11, 2010
All you need to bring is yourself, a lawn chair, and someting to share with everyone! The main course will be provided along with a beverage (bring your own alcholoic beverage if you like). The party begins at 4:30. Dinner will be served at 5:30. Hayrides will be given throughout the day. Bonfire at dusk. Hope to see you there!
**Bring family and friends**
For more information contact Jason at jason.stock@master-custom-homes.com

September gathering(s)

2010-08-31T08:51:00.004-05:00

For those of you looking for activities for the month of September, you'll have your choice- especially the 2nd week of September.
Saturday September 11: Lake Wobegone Ride for the Kids Children's Home Charity.
Completed registration forms with payment must be returned and postmarked by August 31, 2010.
After this date please register at one of the three official starting places.

•Choose one of three official starting places along I-94:
• St. Joseph (check in at 8:00 A.M. for a 9:00 A.M. start),
• Avon (check in at 9:00 A.M. for a 10:00 A.M. start),
• Melrose (check in at 10:00 A.M. for a 11:00 A.M. start)

Also, September 11 is the St. Mary's Cathedral Block Party begins at 4 p.m. with an outdoor polka Mass, followed by Ring of Kerry at 6 p.m. and the George Maurer Band at 8 p.m.

September ToT

2010-08-31T08:30:00.004-05:00

John Hanson, OSB to speak on music and vocation, September 14, 2010 at 7 p.m. at the St. Cloud Ground Round. Please plan to come and learn more about the Abbey's commitment to Liturgy from Br. John. *Note the new location.* The Ground Round is next just east of Ciatti's on hwy 23. Come and bring a friend.

For more updates, become a TOT blog 'follower.' Hope to see you on the 14th!

August Speaker

2010-07-28T08:42:00.004-05:00

Join St. Cloud Theoloy on Tap on Tuesday August 10th at 7 p.m. at Grizzly's for a discussion on the Ministry Needs of Kids at Risk. Lana Faber, Youth Minister at the St. Cloud Children's Home will share her insight and expertise on how to best support these memebers of our community.

This will be a great evening of disucussion. We hope that it will inspire more plans for a TOT fundraising team for the Lake Wobegone Ride for the Kids, which benefits the St. Cloud Children's Home. Hope to see you there!

Community of Communities Gathering

2010-07-07T15:03:00.005-05:00

Thursday, July 15, 2010 (next Thursday), we'll be meeting with our Franciscan brothers and sisters at the Church of St. Bridget (3811 N Emerson Avenue) at 7pm.
The gathering is hosted by the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls
and the Franciscan Friars, TOR These sisters and brothers are continuing in the tradition of Francis and Clare of Assisi–living the Gospel in the world.

After some initial informal time to greet one another, the sisters and friars will share about their tradition, their communities, and engage in some Q&A about their way of life.

There will be some snacks and beverages provided, but we encourage you to bring something to share as well.
Click here to learn more about the Twin Cities Community of Comunities.

Next Theology on Tap!

2010-07-06T10:45:00.005-05:00

Saints 101: Ever feel like you lack an understanding of that large group in the Catholic tradition, honored for their noteworthy lives? Come with questions or come up with new questions at Theology on Tap this month.

Join us Tuesday July 20 [note schedule change] at Grizzly's in St. Cloud for discussion led by Ben Caduff of the Christ Church Newman Center. Talk begins at 7 pm, come early for appetizer specials and/or stay late for great conversation.

Brewery Tour this Month!

2010-06-02T09:09:00.007-05:00

Meet June 17th at Cold Spring Brewery at 3:00 p.m. (they only offer tours during the day). We could arrange to meet at 2:15pm in the parking lot outside of Grizzlys for carpooling.
Tours require shoes (as opposed to sandals) and no jewelry on hands or necks. See you at Cold Spring Brewery!

Theology on Tap Next Week!

2010-06-02T09:02:00.005-05:00

Be sure to mark your calendars for TOT next Tuesday (June 8th)at 7 p.m. (earlier for drink/app. specials). Joe Bauer from Quiet Oaks Hospice will be leading the dicussion on end of life issues and caring for the dying. *Remember that we're meeting at Grizzly's again, across from Kohls.*
Please come and bring a friend as we discuss this important ministry!

You're invited

2010-05-20T09:35:00.003-05:00

Little Falls Franciscans to celebrate the

temporary vows

of their newest sisters on June 12. Mass at 11 am, followed by a meal. If you're interested in participating in this beautiful and joyful day, please contact kjanssen@fslf.org for more information.

Catholic Singles Retreat

2010-05-10T13:01:00.004-05:00

Open to both men and women

Begins at 7pm May 21 and concludes at 12:45 pm May 23.
e-mail: christtheking@kingshouse.com
www.kingshouse.com
763-682-1394

Christ the King Retreat Center
623 First Ave S
Buffalo, MN 55313

Updates & Recent Events

2010-04-28T14:51:00.006-05:00

Thanks to all of you who came out to support the Taste of St. Cloud on Sunday. (I trust that you went home stuffed and socialized!). Please plan on it again next spring!
Remember that beginning on May 11, Theology on Tap will be meeting at Grizzly's. This month, Franciscan Sister Michelle L'Allier will be leading disucssion on 'Navigating the Complicated Web of Relationships.' Appetizer and drink specials until 6:30, so come early and stick around for discussion beginning at 7pm.
Looking for a way to use your manual labor skills & explore Annandale? Clare's Well is hosting a spring work day on May 22nd.

Young adult night at the Benedictine Spirituality Center

2010-04-16T11:28:00.007-05:00

Who: YOU
What: Discussion & fellowship with young adults, hosted by the Benedictine Sisters
Where: Spirituality Center 104 Chapel Lane, St Joseph, MN‎ 56374
When: Monday, April 26, 7 – 9 p.m.
please rsvp to saintcloudtot@gmail.com if you plan to attend.

New Location

2010-04-14T14:52:00.008-05:00

Begining May 13, St. Cloud Theology on Tap will be meeting at Grizzly's in St. Cloud. Be sure to remind your friends.

Appetizer & drink specials until 6:30...come early for dinner and stay for discussion.

Enrichment: Tell Their Story

2010-04-09T11:27:00.004-05:00

From the Franciscan Sisters at the Welcoming House
Here we are again...inviting YOU to an exciting evening at the Franciscan Welcoming House on Thursday, April 15 at 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Be sure you have your taxes done BEFORE you come!! The evening will include a dinner served at 6 p.m. followed by sharings from our four Franciscan Community Volunteers about their experience and reflection as volunteers. You will hear from Will, Spencer, Alicia and Caitie.

It will be fun, exciting and rewarding. Be sure to RSVP by Tuesday, April 13 so that we can be WELL prepared for your coming. Email ckorkowski@yahoo.com or call the Franciscan Welcoming House at 229-0307. We are located at 1600 11th Avenue South, St. Cloud.

If you need a ride, call us. See you on April 15.

Seder Meal(s) this Thursday

2010-03-30T14:40:00.005-05:00

(Pix:http://dwellingintheword.wordpress.com/tag/matthew/)

St. Peter's Catholic Church as well as Christ Church Newman Center are hosting Seder meals this Thrusday.

St. Pete's @ 5:30pm donation requested
Newman's @ 12pm on the Terrace

Join in and learn about this beautiful tradition!

Thursday and Friday Happenings

2010-03-16T12:51:00.003-05:00

Big week for events:

Thursday 8pm: one of the Vatican's astronomers, Fr. Coyne, is visiting campus and
giving a public talk on Thursday, which might be of interest:

SJU PENGL Pellegrene Auditorium
THE DANCE OF THE FERTILE UNIVERSE: CHANCE AND DESTINY EMBRACE

The topic is how best to understand the complexity of the universe and
life - or astrophysics + other science meets religion.

**Also**
Thursday 6-8pm: Enrichment at the Franciscan Welcoming House

Come enjoy dinner and discussion about water- our most precious resource.
RSVP to 320-229-0307 by Wednesday March 17.

**And**

Friday 5-8:30pm at the Eastside Boys & Girls Club, plan to stop in and support our own Michael Brixius' Pay it Forward project benefitting the Boys & Girls Club as well as Children's International. $1 (suggested donation--all others deeply appreciated) gets you in the door with music, entertainment and silent auction! Plan to be there on Friday!

Enrichment Night: Water

2010-03-11T09:24:00.004-06:00

Come to the Franciscan Welcoming House on Thursday March 18th from 6-8 p.m. for a delicious dinner and dicussion on water, one of the most essential elements in existence. Take some time to meditate on the abundance of this gift!

Please RSVP by March 16, to 320-229-0307.

**********************

The total amount of water on the earth is about 326 million cubic miles of water.
-Of all the water on the earth, humans can used only about three tenths of a percent of this water. Such usable water is found in groundwater aquifers, rivers, and freshwater lakes.
-The United States uses about 346,000 million gallons of fresh water every day.
-The United States uses nearly 80 percent of its water for irrigation and thermoelectric power.
-The average person in the United States uses anywhere from 80-100 gallons of water per day. Flushing the toilet actually takes up the largest amount of this water.
-Approximately 85 percent of U.S. residents receive their water from public water facilities. The remaining 15 percent supply their own water from private wells or other sources.
-By the time a person feels thirsty, his or her body has lost over 1 percent of its total water amount.
-The weight a person loses directly after intense physical activity is weight from water, not fat.
-The next war fought will likely be over water rights

SJU Maple Syrup Fest

2010-02-25T09:03:00.004-06:00

Saturdays, March 27 and April 10
If you haven't been a part of this welcoming of spring (and even if you have), treat yourself to a Minnesota tradition in St. John's "sugarbush."
Join us for what has become our most popular event of the year! Sap collecting, syrup cooking, horse-drawn rides, demonstrations, and hot maple syrup sundaes await the whole family during this fun-filled event! More information coming this spring!

Pay it Forward

2010-02-24T15:07:00.008-06:00

Who: You!
What: Youth Supporting Youth-MN
When: Friday March 19 from 5-8:30pm
Where: East Side Boys and Girls Club, 4 blocks from St. Aug's
Why: Not only is this a fun event including kid's artwork, theater, dancing, drumming a silent auction of artwork and snacks, but proceeds collected at the door or on silent auction items go directly to supporting the Boys & Girl's Club of St. Cloud and the Child's International Fund in Haiti.
How: Please plan to support this Lenten project and the youth who supported it.
$1 suggested donation at the door.
Become a facebook fan! [Youth Supporting Youth-MN]

Lenten Opportunities at St. Joseph in Waite Park

2010-02-17T16:26:00.003-06:00

Photo link: http://eugeneklee.wordpress.com/2009/02/24/ash-wednesday-and-lent/

Lenten Reflections on “Conversion as a way of Life.” This is for all at 6:30pm on Wednesdays after the Stations of the Cross (4:30pm) and Soup Suppers (5:00pm). Join us on the Wednesdays following Ash Wed. for our journey of on-going conversion through experiences of God, prayer, simple living and service and justice toward others.
**Suppers will be served until 6 for those coming from work**

If anyone would be interested in attending or cooking for this event, contact Mike- mmonnens@gmail.com

AWESOME young adult conference in Chicago this spring

2010-02-16T13:52:00.005-06:00

Young Adult Conference April 9-10 at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.

Chicago is probably the best known city for having young adult opportunities and events for inidviduals interested in their faith. Whether you consider this a retreat or an Easter gift to yourself, know that you will not be disappointed.

Early bird registration (before March 15) is $25. ***Big discounts for groups of 5.

Please consider this opportunity. There is potential for carpooling and even housing discounts with a group. If you're mildly interested, please e-mail me @ saintcloudtot@gmail.com or

K-YES Valentines Day Event

2010-02-11T15:02:00.003-06:00

Date: Sunday, February 14

Time: 5:30pm-Mass 6:30-Ecumenical Service

Place: St Augustine's Catholic Church
442 Second St SE - St Cloud

Please join us as we kick off the 40 Days for Life Spring Campaign. Let us come together to Pray, Fast and Vigil to bring an end to abortion.

If you are interested in joining with 40 Days For Life this Lent, or finding out more information, visit www.KYESRadio.com and click the 40 Days for Life Banner.

(One Day) Retreat Opportunity

2010-02-10T11:10:00.005-06:00

"A Franciscan Christian Life of Continual Conversion.”

Looking for a chance to get away, even for a day? Have you ever visited the Franciscans in Little Falls?

We will discover and reflect on themes such as: 1) How do we experience continual conversion; and 2) Being a Franciscan Christian Today: Signs and Wonders.
What could be more fitting topics at this time of the year?

S. Elise Saggau will be our guest speaker. Sr. Elise earned a Masters degree in religious education from Seattle University, a Masters of Divinity degree from Loyola University, and a Master of Arts degree in Franciscan Studies from St. Bonaventure in New York. She has been a theology teacher at Loyola and Mundelein and an administrator at the School of Theology at St. John’s University. She worked at the Franciscan Institute at St. Bonaventure University in New York as assistant director of publications. I am thrilled she will be sharing her wisdom and experience with us again.

This year’s Lenten Day of Reflection takes place on Saturday, March 6th at The Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls Convent from 9:30 am – 3:30 pm.

** Cost is $30/person. You may register by calling Judy at 320-632-0693 or e-mail her at jvirnig@fslf.org no later than February 24th.**

Theology on Tap this Tuesday!

2010-02-04T14:24:00.004-06:00

Spiritual or Religious? One Answer?
S. Eunice Antony, OSB, presents on the dichotomy associated with young adults, that often identify themselves as spiritual or religious. Come and listen as S. Eunice addresses the giftedness of each attribute, what we have to learn from one another and how we might be more integrated than we know.

Bring a friend or come and make more. 7pm Granite City. Hope to see you there!

Taize Prayer Opportunity this Thursday

2010-01-25T15:17:00.002-06:00

RSVP for Taize prayer at the Franciscan Welcoming House by January 27th. Please feel free to bring a friend.

Who: You!
What: (*Free) Dinner and Taize prayer opportunity
When: January 28th from 6-8pm
Where: Franciscan Welcoming House
1600 11th Ave So.
St. Cloud, MN 56301
How: Call if you plan to attend (320-229-0307)

Ski Trip to Itasca State Park

2010-01-19T11:22:00.004-06:00

8th Annual ITASCA STATE PARK trip - Jan 29-31
When: Jan 29 – 31 2010
Where: Itasca State Park (map)
Contact: Jen Messing at 612-518-5490 612-518-5490 or jenmessing@usfamily.net
http://www.frassatisocietymn.org/calendar-of-events.html
Costs: for gas, lodging, food and park permits we ask for $80 from each person Extras: XC ski rental is $24, snowshoes are $6
RSVP’s: Beds will be held with a $45 down payment by Dec. 28. After Jan. 1 all unreserved beds will not be held for us! It’s the time of year when we start talking about our annual winter migration north! If you haven’t been there yet, we whole-heartedly invite you to join us! You can look forward to breathing in the sweet smelling air, listening to the wind blow through the pines and cozying up in the freshly renovated hostel with some true Frassati camaraderie! With the Mississippi Headwaters Hostel as our rendezvous point, we typically snowshoe or cross country ski on the pine-surrounded trails & open lakes, enjoy family-style meals, play cards or games and take lots of naps by the fireplace. Please consider making your down payment by Monday, Dec. 21. We must pay half the cost of renting the whole hostel by Jan. 1 and would appreciate any help we can get! Make your checks out to “Frassati Society of MN” and send them to Mary Stoick at 1723 Wordsworth Ave, St Paul MN 55116.

Ice fishing tourney this weekend--GREAT cause!

2010-01-18T17:32:00.004-06:00

If you're like most native Minnesotans and enjoy sitting out of the ice (or even if you don't--you can support it without fishing!), you may already know about the ice fishing tournament taking place this weekend, January 23rd at Pearl Lake.
The 1st Annual Stoked Sports Apparel Ice Fishing TOURNAMENT

15% of all processed benefit Hands Across the World's (ESL) Learning Center.
There is a $15 entry fee (included in the raffle)
Event: 12pm-3pm
Fishing: 1-3

Drawing at 3pm at the Pearl Lake Lodge in Marty, MN

*Cash Prizes: 1st place-$250, 2nd: $150, 3rd, $75
*Free Family Clinics
*Great Raffle Prizes: Diamond pendant, Otter Ice Shlter, Best Buy Gift packages, Ice Augers, CPS, Scheels Gift Package, AT & T gift package

For more information, contact 320-209-8801

Talk at SJU TOMORROW (Tuesday Jan 19)

2010-01-18T11:43:00.003-06:00

Come here TOT friend, professor Sarah Yost present!!

Minnesota Natural History Lecture Series
PLANETS OUTSIDE OUR SOLAR SYSTEM:
· What do we know about them?
· How do we know about them?
· Are there other Earth-like environments out there?

Skies permitting, we’ll go outside after the lecture!

Tuesday, January 19
6:30—8:00 p.m.
New Science 146, SJU
FREE—Students (of all ages) & Arboretum
members$5—Others
320.363.3163 arboretum@csbsju.edu

Upcoming Ski Event

2010-01-15T09:47:00.002-06:00

Stay tuned both for reports of fresh snow and a cross-country skiing extravaganza!!
Never skied before?! No problemo. There are a variety of trails and experience on behalf of the skiers.
More info to come...

Upcoming Events

2010-01-14T10:09:00.007-06:00

Pre-Valentines Day Fair Trade Coffee & Chocolate Sampling
Hosted by St. Joseph's Parish Waite Park- Social Concern's Committee
For more information, contact mmonnens@gmail.com

Theology on Tap Next Week!

2010-01-05T14:29:00.006-06:00

Don't let the cold keep you away from Theology on Tap next week. Join us at 7pm on January 12 at Granite City for dinner, drinks, and/or discussion with Wendy Cichanski from the SCSU Newman Center: "Have You Been Saved? Catholics and Fundamentalists"

Got your Goat?!

2009-12-16T10:56:00.010-06:00

Still finishing up your Christmas shopping for this year? If you have difficult people to shop for on your list, consisder donating to a charity in their name instead. See the links below for fun ideas and more details!

Possibilities include:
Purchasing a goat to provide milk and extra income for a family
World Relief

Preventing homelessness before it begins:

Contributing to development of wells to provide clean drinking water.

Jewelry and art made by artisans getting paid just wages to carry on their traditions and support their families.

Give from the heart (donate blood) in someone else's honor this year at the St.Cloud Red Cross

The possibilities are endless!

Volunteers needed

2009-12-15T15:54:00.005-06:00

As we prepare to celebrate the joyous Christmas season, let us remember those for whom the blanket of snow and dipping temperatures are cause for real concern. If you can, please consider helping with a meal or to staff the Church of the Week overnight shift so that no one has to sleep outside this winter, please reply to saintcloudtot@gmail.com or call Place of Hope and ask for Conrad: 320-203-7881. St. Anthony's parish was also intersted in a young adult group of volunteers for this task.

Christmas Program

2009-12-15T15:45:00.003-06:00

Everyone is invited to the Saint Joseph Lab School Christmas program. It will begin at 5:45 pm on Thursday, December 17 in the Escher Auditorium of the BAC at the College of St. Benedict. Attendees are asked to bring donations for the St. Joseph Community Food Shelf.

Here we come a Wassailing among the leaves so green...

2009-12-09T11:23:00.006-06:00

C Dreamstime
There will be caroling, a potluck and games on Saturday afternoon/evening December 19.Load up your friends,
favorite game and/or dish to pass and dress in layers!
Meet at Jason's house at 4pm to drop off potluck goodies and practice a few songs before we head out.
e-mail saintcloudtot@gmail.com for directions and carpooling possibilities (a headcount would be oh-so-helpful for food planning!).

Live from St. Cloud

2009-12-09T11:13:00.009-06:00

This Friday morning at 9am, listen in to AM1180 (the new Catholic radio station) for an interview with Theology on Tap's very own Peter & Katie on "Voice from the Cloud." We'll be talking about Theology on Tap as well as young adult ministry in the area! Fr. Aaron will be on as well, so be sure to tune in or stream it online!
http://www.kyesradio.com/

Upcoming Events

2009-12-02T12:43:00.007-06:00

December 13: 2-4pm Christmas open house hosted by the Franciscan Community Volunteers @ 1600 11th Ave So. St. Cloud, MN 56301. Come for cookies and coffee/cider, call 320-240-6184 with questions

December 8: Theology on Tap- Finding your God-Given gifts, 7pm @ Granite City, St. Cloud

December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception, potluck and speaker @ Newman beginning at 5:30pm for Mass.

December 7: Jazz concert 7:30-9:30pm at Petter's Pavillion, Saint John's University

December 6: Craft and Jewelry fair @ St. Aug's, call 252-9298 with questions

December 5:Christmas @ Saint John's 2pm Great Hall, call 363-5777 for tickets

December 4: Christmas @ Saint John's 8pm Great Hall, call 363-5777 for tickets

December 3: Student Meal at Newman Center 5pm

December 2-3: Fair Trade Craft Sale @ St. Ben's in the Gorecki center 11:30am-7pm

Christmas Open House December 13: 2-4pm

2009-11-24T15:25:00.004-06:00
You're Invited!!!

As many of you know, the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls have begun a new ministry this year called the Franciscan Community Volunteers. Please visit our website for more information on this new program(http://www.fslf.org/franciscan_volunteers.html).

In the meantime, please know that you're invited to a Christmas open house on December 13 from 2-4pm to celebrate the season and the many people who have made this new program possible.

Join us for cookies, cider, conversation and a tour of the volunteer house.

1600 11th Ave So.
St. Cloud, MN 56301

Happy Thanks--giving!

2009-11-24T14:57:00.006-06:00

Lk 17:11-19

I love this reading from Lukes Gospel because it is simultaneously a beautiful story about God's gift-giving nature and a kind metaphor for the many (good) ways we get distracted and forget to return to the Giver of Gifts to give thanks and praise. After all, Jesus TOLD the lepers "show yourselves to the priests." They were doing what they were told by going out into the cities. Besides having direction from Jesus, imagine the people they would have wanted to visit after years of isolation in leper colonies without so much as a touch or hug. I imagine the joy with which they must have returned to their friends or families...it is no wonder that in their zeal, they forgot to say, 'thank you.'

Knowing these communities as he did, I don't suppose Jesus held the excitement against the healed lepers, but was probably particularly gratified and delighted by the one lepers' response knowing the extent to which this person's life had just been changed and finding one of the lepers returning with praise on his/her lips.

Thinking about this reading has challenged me to think of the "holy business" (church, work, spritual direction, etc.) I can find for myself, and to sincerly ask if/when the last time was that, I spontaneoulsy returned to the giver of all good gifts with my thanks and praise. May this Thanksgiving be a fitting day for all of us to remember the Giver and givers in our lives and give thanks to them!

***************************
As Jesus continued his journey to Jerusalem,
he traveled through Samaria and Galilee.
As he was entering a village, ten persons with leprosy met him.
They stood at a distance from him and raised their voices, saying,
“Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!”
And when he saw them, he said,
“Go show yourselves to the priests.”
As they were going they were cleansed.
And one of them, realizing he had been healed,
returned, glorifying God in a loud voice;
and he fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him.
He was a Samaritan.
Jesus said in reply,
“Ten were cleansed, were they not?
Where are the other nine?
Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?”
Then he said to him, “Stand up and go; your faith has saved you.”

Advent Retreat

2009-11-19T13:54:00.005-06:00

Give yourself some time away to prepare for Advent this year

Sign up now for an Advent Retreat Saturday December 5 from 8:30-3:30
Feasting on Festivity: Reflections for the Advent-Christmas Season
Who: You! [And anyone you'd like to bring]
What: Day-long Advent retreat
When: 8:30-3:30, Saturday December 5th
Where: Franciscan Convent in Little Falls

Presenters: S. Michelle L'Allier, OSF, and Brother David Liedl, TOR
Cost: $30 (includes lunch). Pre-register by November 20 with a $10 non-refundable deposit. Call 320-632-0668 to register.

Becoming Community November 19

2009-11-02T15:28:00.011-06:00

Speaker Kevin LaNave from the Center for Service Learning and Social Change will speak on "Becoming Community"

Where are you? Included? Excluded? Do you belong? Do you just fit in?

Come and discuss these vital questions with other young adults at the Franciscan Welcoming House on November 19 from 6-8pm (dinner included).

Please RSVP by the 16th if you plan to come: 320-229-0307

Gobble Gobble: November 5

2009-11-02T13:14:00.006-06:00

Don't miss the meal on Thursday November 5 at 5pm! Bring a friend and come hungry! We'll have turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, biscuits, sweet potatoes, green beans, need we say more? Oh, and don't forget the pumpkin and peacon pies to finish it off! These meals are free, and given to you once a month by Newman's permanent community.
Newman Center 396 First Ave South St. Cloud, MN 56301 @ 5pm

Burning Bushes Retreat: November 13-14

2009-11-02T12:45:00.004-06:00

"...And every bush is afire with the glory of God. But only a few turn aside. The rest sit around and pluck blackberries."
~Unknown

Burning Bushes and Gentle Breezes Retreat @ CSB Friday, November 13 (7:30 p.m.) to Saturday, November 14 (4 p.m.) Led by Mary Weidner, OSB Fee: $70 (Includes meals and overnight stay. Sponsorship available). Call S. Dorothy @ (320) 363-7116 or e-mail @ (320) 363-7116.

Pope Benedict & the Economy: November 10

2009-11-02T11:52:00.002-06:00

Professor Dan Finn to speak on Pope Benedict's Encyclical Caritas in Veritate and the Economy @ Granite City. It would be helpful if you would scan the encyclical first- (http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/encyclicals/documents/hf_ben-xvi_enc_20090629_caritas-in-veritate_en.html)

Meet in the conference room a little before 7pm.
See you there!

Litany of Saints

2009-10-22T11:51:00.008-05:00

Long before trick-or-treating and costume parties began, the Church has been celebrating the lives of those men and women who have gone before us on the feasts of All Souls and All Saints. We in the St. Cloud area are fortunate enough to have a standing invitation to participate in the Abbey's celebration of All Souls/All Saints days (and any other occasion for Mass or the Liturgy of the Hours).
Even if you do have plans for trick-or-treating or a costume party on All Hallow's Eve, take advantage of this beautiful (and local) vigil prayer that the Benedictine monks at St. John's Abbey invite the community to join in each year. Whether you are remembering a particular death in your cirlce of family or friends this year, or are just curious about the over-shadowed Catholic tradition, it is a beautiful practice and one worth participating in.
The Vigil begins at 7pm on Saturday October 31, 2009 at the Abbey Church. Enjoy!

Upcoming Opportunities

2009-10-19T14:24:00.006-05:00

Mark you calendars for a 'young adult night' at the Welcoming House on Thursday, Oct. 22nd from 6-8 p.m. We start with a free meal, a chance to meet other young adults, and then a great talk on 'Immigration Reform' by Dr. Bernie Evans and Dr. Kathy Lilla Cox who both teach at St. John's University. Invite some of your friends or co-workers to come too. Call us or tell us (229-0307) at least a day in advance so we can prepare adequately.

Also, if anyone is interested in helping with Place of Hope's evening meal on November 4, please e-mail stcloudtot@gmail.com.

Lastly, stay tuned for information on our upcoming rake-athon...

October 13: A different Kind of Prayer

2009-10-05T15:15:00.005-05:00
Tuesday October 13, join Theology on Tap at Granite City for a presentation and prayer with the Holy Spirit. Using the St. John's Bible (http://www.saintjohnsbible.org/Detail.aspx?ISBN=GA105000NF), Dr. Barbara Sutton will be guiding us in a discussion and prayer with the third person of the Trinity. Please join us (7pm) and feel free to bring a friend.

Sunday at St. John's

2009-09-17T14:34:00.003-05:00
Are Charity and Aid Hurting or Helping Africa?

A documentary and panel discussion

Excerpt from the documentary "What are We Doing Here: Why Western Aid Hasn't Helped Africa."
Panel: Dr. Tatah Mentan, political scientist and author of a number of essays and books on Africa , including Democratizing or Reconfiguring Autocracy? Myths and Realities in Africa Today, Michigan State University Press (2009) and Held Together by Pins: Liberal Democracy Under Siege in Africa, Africa World Press (2007).
Mr. Peter Kimeu, Regional Technical Advisor for Partnership, Solidarity & Justice, Catholic Relief Services -East Africa. Mr. Kimeu has worked with CRS Kenya/East Africa for 30 years.

7:00 - 8:00 pm, Monday, September 21Pellegrine Auditorium, St. John's University
Free and Open to the Public
For more information contact Dr. Ron Pagnucco

Fair Trade Cafe': "Not just a cup, a just cup"

2009-09-10T11:24:00.004-05:00

Looking for a good book or a reason to explore the new library in St. Cloud? Be sure to stop in and support the Fair Trade Cafe'.

For more info on Fair Trade Products see:

http://www.crsfairtrade.org/

Football Season

2009-09-10T09:20:00.004-05:00

The Johnny football schedule is up (and included on this post). Grab a sweatshirt and plan to meet some other ToTer's at Saint John's for one of the upcoming home games:
http://www.gojohnnies.com/schedule.aspx?path=football

Going through Minneapolis on your way home some weekend? You're invited to the Basilica of St. Mary's Sunday night live for young adults

2009-09-08T13:24:00.005-05:00

The Basilica of Saint Mary is pleased to announce a great line-up of topics for the 2009-2010 year of Sunday Night Live.Sunday Night Live, a social and discussion group for young adults in their 20s and 30s, is held once a month after 6:30 PM Mass. Come hear dynamic speakers and share in engaging conversation about contemporary issues related to faith and life. Sunday Night Live takes place once a month at Joe's Garage, located at 1610 Harmon Place, on the north side of Loring Park.We hope you will join us for many of the presentations below!

September 13, 2009 The Top Ten Misconceptions About the Catholic Church

October 11, 2009 Financial Stewardship: What Is It and Why Does It Concern Me?

November 8, 2009 The Saints and Sacred Art: Beauty Engenders Beauty

December 13, 2009 Mission: How Do I Love My Global "Neighbor" Whom I've Never Met?January 10, 2010 Interfaith Panel Discussion: Bring Questions Surrounding Judaism and Christianity

February 14, 2010 God is Love, Love Is From God: Spend Part of Valentine's Day with Us

March 14, 2010 Reconciliation and Confession: It's Been ??? Since My Last Confession...
April 11, 2010 Ecological Stewardship: Why Do Catholics Have to Care about the Environment?May 16, 2010 Women of Faith: Learn About Some of the "She-roes" from Scripture!

June 6, 2010 Living Simply, Meditation and Centering Prayer: Where Do I Start?

Questions about Sunday Night Live? Contact Kelli Kester, Coordinator of Learing for Youth and Young Adults.Many other social, service and educations events are available for young adults. Log onto MyBasilica and subscribe to the monthly e-newsletter.

Theology on Tap-Granite City

2009-08-31T13:20:00.005-05:00

Whether you're a teacher, student or have been out of the academic world for years, there is something about the fall that feels like a new beginning. For the sake of curiosity and a change of scenery, we've decided to move Theology on Tap to Granite City in St. Cloud--same time, different place!

Our hope is that this will be more conducive for presenters and large-groups alike. Please pass on the word and bring a friend. Hope to see you there!
Questions? e-mail Katie @ saintcloudtot@gmail.com

Reminder

2009-08-14T15:58:00.002-05:00
Make sure to sign up for the Lake Wobegon Ride for the Kids by August 31:
http://www.ccstcloud.org/WobegonRide/Index.html

Why Catholic?

2009-08-07T11:54:00.003-05:00
Are you a 'cradle Catholic' who feels that they missed a few key classes during your religious ed. days; Or, perhaps someone 'flirting' with Catholicism for the first time with lots of unanswered questions?

Local Why Catholic Group @ St. Mary's Cathedral in St. Cloud--sign up now.

Why Catholic? is an adult formation process solidly based on Sacred Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and updated to include citations from the newly published United States Catholic Catechism for Adults.

Call the Cathedral parish office at 320-251-1840 for information on joining a small parish-based Why Catholic? discussion group, or for more general information, visit the Why Catholic? program web site.

Announcements, Announcements, Annnoooouncements!

2009-08-07T09:01:00.004-05:00
A reminder and announcement for the upcoming week:

-Saturday 5pm meet for Mass at the St. Cloud Cathedral, followed by dinner at Sawatdee on St. Germain.

-Join us for Theology on Tap, Tuesday August 11 at 7pm to discuss with David Fremo The Catholic vision of 'Common Good'--What does it mean and why is understanding this concept vital to a holistic practice of our faith?

Hope you can make either/both--bring a friend or come and make some!

Thoughts on Discernment, continued

2009-07-22T09:52:00.008-05:00

As promised, here are the notes from Genevieve's presentation last night. Thanks for those of you who could make it--good discussion!

Discernment:

"Thoughts, Questions and Guidelines for Personal Discernment:
· Discernment has to do with making choices within a loving relationship with God.
· If a decision-making process is to be truly discerning, it has to be in partnership with the community to which the person belongs, and the person’s responsibility to consider their own good, but also the good of the community as perceived through the lens of the person.
· In practice, working together in discernment in an honest search for the leading of the Spirit inevitably involves recognizing different points of view and varieties of feeling, acknowledging differences, obstacles, and resistances, and clarifying intentions in a common enterprise.
· Discernment has to do with giving shape and direction to our lives in the present as we move into the future.
· Aids to discernment:
o Being aware and telling the story of our lives in relation to God and reflecting on the different aspects of it help us to recognize where and how God has been and continues to be present and active in that story.
o Knowing the pattern of the presence and action of God in our lives in the past offers a guide to where God is leading us here and now.
· Discernment involves making choices within a setting of prayer, of a continuing dialogue with God.
· God’s wisdom sometimes looks like folly, and true discernment means being ready to be led beyond ordinary prudence and common sense into the unexpected, the unconventional, God’s foolish wisdom.
· Discernment is the ability both to allow one’s own life to be formed and guided by the Word of God and to play an appropriate part in ensuring that this work also guides the life and shapes the structures of the community.
· A process of discernment about an important choice requires the support of a form of daily living in which we are open and sensitive to the movements and leading of the Spirit of God in the path of the gospel. Fidelity to the Spirit in the daily round is the necessary soil in which large, important decisions come to fruition.
· Discernment in everyday life is a matter of regular reflection on daily events, within a framework of prayer, in order to see where the Spirit is leading and to follow that lead. Discernment with respect to a major decision is often a more prolonged and carefully structured process, proportionate to the seriousness of the decision itself.
· Discernment involves the practice of becoming aware of God as a day-to-day presence in our experience, not only in the past but also in the present.

Components for Personal Discernment:
· Regular and serious prayer
· Adequate information relating to choices available
· Reflection on affective responses in relation to God (note and reflect on feeling and desires)
· Weighing the reasons
· Confirmation or unease and the need for further searching
· Discernment is a framework which enables us to join in partnership with God in making choices which will help to bring about the fulfillment of God’s generous hopes and desires for the world and for us.
· Read and reflect
· Share thoughts, ideas and feelings and ask for feedback from people. It may be local community, friends, spiritual director. Then LISTEN!!!
· Obstacles to Discernment:
o (Physical, emotional, psychological and theological blocks)
Fear, depression, a poor self-image or a distorted image of God as tyrant or manipulator—all of these could make discernment difficult, if not impossible. Also, tiredness, ill-health, time anxiety, attachment and addictions and rigidity in attitudes.
· Fundamentally, discernment is the gift of knowing the ways of God and of being able to mirror those ways in one’s own conduct. It means the practical art of living in right relation to God in one’s personal life and helping to order and structure the life of the community in accordance with God’s designs and desires in one’s judgments and choices what is good and creative from what is evil and destructive.
· Read and reflect on books and articles/handouts…
· If we wish to follow the leading of the Spirit we should move with and build upon our experiences of consolation.
· Jesus recognized that his true place was within the circle of fragile needy humankind and who, from that position, placed all that he was and all that he had at the service of his sisters and brothers, and especially to those among them whose needs were greatest.
This discernment process is
courtesy of the
Archdiocese of Cincinnati Vocations office.The Process of making a decision about your life with the help of the Holy Spirit is called “discernment.” It is a process of discovering God’s will for you. In this process you deal with two persons: you and God. During the process, you will get to know both better.
As you begin, remember that both you and God ultimately desire the same thing-your happiness. Your best interest is at the heart of this process and God! You want to make a decision about your life that will bring you happiness. Therefore, you and God are not working at cross-purposes, but for the same goal.
The process of discernment, though often a struggle, is not complicated. It consists of four steps.
Step 1:
Be in touch with yourself.
Know your likes and dislikes, your fears, and dreams, your hopes and interests, your abilities and limitations. Get to know how you work under stress, what kind of leadership you respond to, how much structure you need in your life.
See how others view you in work situations, under stress, and at leisure. Reflect how you view others. Are you able to accept others, to work with them?
One way to look at a call from the Lord is to see God acting through all your life. God created you with a unique personality and allowed you to experience a personal history. Your personality and personal history are part of your call.
As you get to know yourself, accept what you find. You might want to change some aspects of yourself in the future, but begin by accepting yourself as you are.
You might keep a journal to record your feelings over a period of time. Going back over this journal and reflecting on changes in your feelings and ideas will give a picture of the person you are.
Another road to self-discovery is to develop a relationship with a spiritual director or someone else whom you trust and who can be objective with you. If you are open and honest with this person, self-knowledge will increase.
Step 2:
Be in touch with the Lord.
Develop a life of prayer, not just in times of crisis, but regularly. No relationship develops between persons unless they listen to each other. You must learn to listen to the Lord in prayer and not merely ask God to listen to you. You have to spend time with God, listen to God, be honest with God, and occasionally be willing to wait on God.
Prayer is a highly personal response to a personal love that God has for you individually. Because you are unique, your prayer response is going to be unique. Don’t hesitate to experiment with various forms of prayer until you find those which best express your relationship with the Lord.
Look for God in nature, in circumstances of your life, in other people. God is in all. The better you get to know God, the more you will be able to perceive God’s activity.
Step 3:
The decision-making process itself.
As you become more in touch with yourself and with the Lord, prayerfully gather the facts about your decision. Consider alternatives. Write out the pros and cons of each alternative. Try to project what effect each alternative will have on you in five or ten years from now.
As you gather the facts about the alternative life choices open for you, be particularly attentive to your feelings. If you have been open and honest with yourself in Steps 1 and 2, you can trust the feelings you have with greater ease. Choose what appears to be best for you and what appears to be the will of God.
Step 4:
Confirm your decision.
After you have made your decision, spend time in prayer for an extended period to see if the decision still seems right. If it is, there should be a continuation of inner peace and satisfaction. This period of confirmation should go on for an extended interval, several weeks or more, to be sure that the peace you feel is true tranquility and not simply the relief that follows a difficult decision.
You can also be confirmed in your decision by sharing it with your spiritual director or someone else with whom you have worked throughout the process.
10 Questions to help Search for Inner Freedom:
1. Given my stronger inclination toward one choice rather than another, am I willing to accept the possibility that even the choice toward which I am less inclined might be the Word of God for me at this time?
2. Have I consciously or unconsciously dismissed any of the possible choices as a way in which God may be calling me because I do not trust that God really wants me to be happy?
3. Do I trust the process or am I suspending my enthusiasm until I know the direction in which I seem to be called?
4. Do I really believe that God is concerned in the matter enough to show me the way?
5. Do I distrust human efforts to seek God’s way in this matter?
6. Do I believe that the others involved in this decision-making process are open and willing to be led by the Holy Spirit?
7. Does my mistrust of God, of others, even myself make me fearful, timid, cautious in the search and choice of alternatives?
8. Can I accept the fact that God may not choose to speak in the most humanly efficient way or process undertaken to make decisions?
9. Am I willing to be honest in the process and admit that I could be prey to self-deception?
10. Am I aware of my fears, of the areas where I lack freedom, and my need for ongoing conversion?

A Way of Growing in Discernment:

Goal: To “let God happen to me” and to learn to respond to the urging of the Spirit in the events of daily life.

Means: A daily prayerful experience of honest self-confrontation and renewal.

Another Method:
1. In the morning take a few minuets to look ahead to the expected events of the day and the calls they might contain. How do I want to respond? Pray for the needed grace?
2. Towards evening, set aside time to spend with God in a quiet place.

a. Be quiet- take time and energy to erase the day’s problems and pressures. Enjoy God’s presence within and around you.

b. Give thanks- as a person possessing nothing but gifted in and through everything:
i. Humility- Joy
ii. Faith- Filled gratitude for TODAY’S GIFTS
iii. Praise- God’s goodness, God’s forgiving love, God’s care for me…

c. Beg the Spirit- Admit darkness of mind and heart. Recall “lights” received in the past and today. Ask for insights. Ask for courage to accept and respond to what God reveals. Ask for grace to be sensitive to the Spirit.

d. Look at Myself- What happened today? To me? In me? (outstanding events) Was the Lord speaking to me in these events? What did God ask? Is this a “new” message or does it come through often in my daily life? How did I respond? Interior moods, feelings, actions, words, etc. Prayer? Did I (do I?) feel at peace about my response? If not, why? Do I need to see what is causing me to respond in this way? Is there one particular area where the Lord seems to be calling me to conversion? Am I responding?"
~Compiled from a variety of sources, including: the Archdiocese of Cincinatti, Thomas Hart, Thomas Merton and the College of St. Benedict-St. John's University Vocations Project.

Mark your Calendars!

2009-07-21T11:43:00.008-05:00

Didn't sign up for the Ride for the Kids?

Get ready for Rock climbing on the North Shore : Sept. 11 – 13!!! Our first Frassati rock climbing adventure since 2004, we will have the privilege of being led on the beautiful climbs of Shovel Point in Tettegouche State Park by a couple who managed Vertical Endeavors in St. Paul . Beginners and experts alike will love the versatility these climbs have to offer. Gear and training provided by our fearless leaders! (http://www.verticalendeavors.com/vestpaulnew/index.html )!
You may want to take note that on Saturday, Sept.12, Christopher West will be doing a daylong “Introduction to John Paul II’s Theology of the Body” at St. Scholastica in Duluth! Feel free to combine your activities… Tettegouche is a little over an hour from Duluth, so it’s very do-able to camp with us if you like! To register, go to http://www.dioceseduluth.org/index.php?PageID=400&QryParentID=230.

2009 Rural Life Celebration August 16 @ 11am

2009-07-21T11:31:00.006-05:00

Catholic Charities invites you to join us on Sunday, August 16 at 11am at the Don and Judy Koep farm in rural Clitherall, Otter Tail County, for the 2009 Rurual Life Celebration. The event promises to be a day filled with fun and family celebration. Bishop John F. Kinney will celebrate an outdoor Mass, followed by a picnic, entertainment and children's games at no charge.

The Rurual Life Celebration is an annual festival of rural living and the goodness of God's creation. The event is hosted by the parishes of Brandon, Millerville, Parkers Prairie and Urbank, and is co-sponsored by the Diocese of St. Cloud and Catholic Charities.

Needing to Re-fuel?

2009-07-20T11:37:00.008-05:00

Great opportunity for 1-2 people to head to Chicago for an awesome conference/retreat August 9-14.

These conferences are offered without charge to the participants and include room and board. Conference participants, or their sponsoring orgnaizations are responsible for travel expenses. (Southwest airlines now offers really cheap airfare to Chi-town out of Minneapolis!)

Register asap at 773.371.5431 or mailto:catholicsoncall@ctu.edu?subject=CoC%20summer%20conferences for more information.

http://www.catholicsoncall.org/programs/current_programs/index.html

Mass and Thai (Does it get any better!?)

2009-07-16T11:52:00.008-05:00

Let's meet up for Mass together at St. Mary's Cathedral on Saturday August 8 at 5. Following Mass, we can walk to dinner at Sawatdee.
Come for either or both & bring a friend!

Lake Wobegon Ride for the Kids: September 12, 2009

2009-07-16T11:45:00.007-05:00

Looking for a great way to get active and support a local ministry?
Collect (at least) $30 to enter into the Ride for the Kids between St. Joseph and Sauk Center. Proceeds go to support the St. Cloud Children’s Home.
For more information about the children's home, go to:
http://www.ccstcloud.org/cc06/rp/scch1.htm
For bike registration:
http://www.ccstcloud.org/cc06/oa/lake01.htm
**Completed registration forms with payment must be returned and postmarked by August 31, 2009. **

Theology on Tap Re-Scheduled

2009-07-16T11:33:00.006-05:00
Due to extreme weather this week, Theology on Tap has been re-scheduled for Tuesday July 21 @ 7pm at McCann's in St. Cloud.
The topic for discussion this week is Discernment: What it is and how to incorporate it into daily life? Genevieve Mougey, M. Div, will be leading the discussion.

Welcome to St. Cloud's Theology on Tap and Catholic Young Adult blogspot.

2009-07-16T09:02:00.003-05:00