THE CORNERSTONE

September 24, 2023

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

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On Saturday, September 23, the Seattle Archdiocese announces the DRAFT of Parish Family Groupings. We will send out a special email and make announcements at Mass about the family groupings for the parishes of Tacoma.

It will be your first chance to think and pray about the proposed family groupings, especially for Saint Patrick and Holy Cross. And it will kick off the opportunity to give your INPUT on the proposals. Most importantly, the Archdiocese would like to know what you think is good about the proposals and why, and what you think is challenging about the proposals and why.

There are two ways to give your input. The most effective way is to attend one of four Input Sessions at our parishes.

September 26 | 6:30 pm

October 1 | 12:00 pm

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

Church Hall

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September 27 | 6:00 pm

October 1 | 11:00 am

Holy Cross Catholic Church

Parish Hall

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If you cannot attend an input session, you can send your thoughts to [email protected]. Your opinions are essential and will be sent to the Archdiocese for consideration for the final Family Groupings to be announced in January 2024.

—Saint Patrick Catholic Church—

No Daily Mass

October 4

Women & The Word

The 9:30 am session has moved to 10:00 am, immediately after the 9:00 am Mass. The group meets in the Saint Patrick Catholic Church Parish Center.

First Friday Mass

First Friday Mass at 11:00 am

October 2023 through May 2024

No 9:00 am Daily Mass

—Holy Cross Catholic Church—

No Daily Mass

October 5 and October 6

Catholic Daughters of the Americas

CDA is one of the oldest and largest organizations for Catholic women in the Americas, providing local spirituality, sharing, and activity under the support of a vibrant national organization.



September 24 | 11:30 am

Holy Cross Catholic Church

Parish Hall

Meetings are held on the 4th Sunday of the month.

Social Hour

Social Hour after 9:00 am, Sunday Mass is back at Saint Patrick Catholic Church after a summer hiatus, and Troop 299 is hosting as a token of their appreciation for supporting their 3rd annual Treasure Bazaar.

Thanks to your donations and partnership, they achieved their goal, and the Troop is thriving, healthy, and growing yet again! They couldn't do it without all of you and your prayers. The Troop looks forward to working with you and serving you in the coming year.

If you are interested in hosting, email Laura Dougherty. There is no out-of-pocket cost to host. The Parish provides the donuts and coffee— your family sets up, serves, and cleans up.

At Holy Cross Catholic Church, Social Hour is hosted after the 10:00 am Sunday Mass as scheduled:

—1st Sunday—

St. Peter Chanel Samoan Ministry

—2nd Sunday—

Knights of Columbus Council 16667

—3rd Sunday—

Altar Society 

—4th Sunday—

Catholic Daughters of the Americas 

— 5th Sunday—

CDA or Knights

Funeral Service

for

—Tom Tolt—

September 29 | 11:00 am

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

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Middle School Youth Group

Grades 6-8 students are invited to build a relationship with Jesus.

High school students, young adults, and the young at heart are invited to support the Youth Group in leadership roles. Please take a look at the article below for details.

starting October 5

Thursdays | 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

Parish Center

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Parents and family members are invited to meet the leaders at the first session.

—save the dates—

October 12, & 19

November 2, 9, & 16

December 7, 14, & 21

The first few sessions will be games-heavy to build community. The weekly schedule always includes:

• Dinner
• Games
• Topic introduction
• Small group discussion
• Adoration

Volunteers Needed

Middle School Youth Group starts on October 5.



High schoolers, young adults, and young-at-heart volunteers are needed.

Volunteers receive mentorship and provide program input during monthly leaders' meetings held on the last Thursday of the month from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm and on the other Thursdays of the month at the same time, will

• provide mentorship and input during Middle School Youth Group meetings in small group settings
• demonstrate the game(s) of the week.
• help with the setup and breakdown of dinners and games.
• attend and support larger events.

If you are interested in volunteering or are considering volunteering, fill out the Volunteer Form to get started.

1st Friday Mass

Let's gather to pray together at Mass on the first Friday of each month from October to May.

October 6 | 11:00 am

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

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No 9:00 am Mass; please join us at 11:00 am instead.

Lunch Theme

Lunch for seniors follows Mass in the Church Hall, sponsored by the Health Ministry. Lunches on Senior First Friday explore the cuisines of different countries each month and honor a Saint from that country.

St. Boniface

In October, we're celebrating St. Boniface, the patron saint of Germany, with an Oktoberfest meal of German sausages, Bratkartoffeln (German Roasted Potatoes with Bacon and Onions), Rosenkohl (German Honey Mustard Glazed Brussels Sprouts), Bavarian Winter Salad (with Assorted Salad Greens, Apples, Carrots, Walnuts, and a Blue Cheese Vinaigrette), Pretzel Rolls, and Apple Strudel for dessert.

—save the dates—

2023 | November 3, December 1,

2024 | January 5, February 2, March 1, April 5, May 3

Volunteer Opportunity

Volunteers are needed to help serve the themed lunches. To volunteer or if you need a ride to Mass, call 253-274-4109 or email Garry FitzGerald. Saint Patrick Catholic School middle schoolers are encouraged to volunteer to fulfill required service hours.

Flu Clinic

Get your seasonal flu vaccine! The clinic for patients age 3+ is organized by the Saint Patrick Catholic Church Health Ministry and administered by Rite Aid and Bartell Drugs. An adult must accompany children under the age of 18. 

October 8

10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Saint Patrick Catholic Church 

Basement

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Rohan, the therapy dog, will be on-site to comfort kids (and adults). You don't need to make an appointment.

Bring with you

• A copy of your insurance cards, including Medical and Pharmacy
• Photo identification such as a driver's license or government-issued ID
• Vaccine Administration Record if you have one and would like it updated
• Completed Consent Form

Consent Forms will also be available at the clinic.

Support Pack 299

Cub Scout Pack 299, chartered by Saint Patrick Catholic Church & School, hosts a Chili Cookoff & Silent Auction to benefit the scholarship fund for scouting families. 

October 8

2:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

Church Hall

Bid on silent auction packages as you sample over 25 varieties of homemade chili.

Silent Auction closes at 4:00 pm, and winners will receive their packages to take home that evening.

ALWAYS scroll to the bottom of The Cornerstone; you might need to click view the entire message if your email provider clipped it or view it as a webpage in the browser to stay informed about important news, events, and programs. You'll know you've reached the end when you see our photo highlight.

40 Days for Life

The visible, public centerpiece of 40 Days for Life is a focused, 40-day prayer vigil outside an abortion facility in the community. It is a peaceful and educational presence. Those called to stand witness send a powerful message to the community about the tragic reality of abortion.

—Fall Vigil—

September 27 - November 5

Tuesday - Sunday

8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Share

public right of way at

Cedar River Clinics

1401 Martin Luther King Jr. Way

To sign up, email 40 Days for Life.

For more information, visit 40daysforlife/Tacoma.com.

7th annual Catholic Immigration Summit

Following the National Migration Week, September 18-24, this year's summit, Companions on the Journey: Sharing Stories and Discerning Next Steps,

includes Mass with Bishop Elizondo, sharing stories from impacted communities, lunchtime table discussions, and discerning actionable next steps.

September 30 | 9:00 am to 2:00 pm

Seattle University

The summit is organized by the Archdiocese of Seattle Immigrant and Refugee Ministry, Catholic Community Services, Catholic Immigration Legal Services, Intercommunity Peace and Justice Center, Seattle University's Institute for Catholic Thought and Culture, and the WSCC.

NEW Pushpay Giving Online

Thank you for your consistent giving to our parish. We are grateful for your continued generosity and are excited to announce a new way to give. We value our parish community and want to ensure everyone knows about our new giving platform.

Along with most of the parishes in the Archdiocese of Seattle, we are moving away from Our Sunday Visitor (OSV) Online Giving and EFT services. The Archdiocese has spent over two years reviewing giving platforms and has chosen to contract with Pushpay. We strive to be good stewards of your financial gifts and believe the significantly lower processing fees offered through Pushpay will allow your gift of treasure to support our parishes' mission further. As always, security is a top priority. 

We aim to complete this transition process to Pushpay by November 1, so we need your help moving your current OSV Online Giving and EFT gifts. 

Online Giving (credit cards or bank account)

If you currently donate online (via OSV), please follow the instructions below to set up your recurring gift through Pushpay and cancel your donation through OSV.

EFT (bank account only)

If you currently donate through EFT (via the Parish Office), please follow the instructions below to set up your recurring gift through Pushpay. Then, email Michelle Carpenter to stop your EFT donations.

Weekly Collection Needed

$19,811

9/17/23 Collection

$12,245

Needed Year to Date

$237,732

Actual Year to Date

$228,796

Weekly Collection Needed

$5,770

9/17/23 Collection

$9,132

Needed Year to Date

$69,240

Actual Year to Date

$80,815

An additional $4,855 has been donated, doubling to $9,710 since we announced the matching gift a few weeks ago!

We are grateful to the generous donor who stepped forward to match each new donation until we reach our goal.

While we hope that all pledges will be paid in full, we know some won't be due to changes in circumstances.

Please consider increasing your gift or making a one-time donation to ensure we exceed our goal. Any shortage needs to be paid to the Archdiocese from our parish budget.

—GOAL—

$118,051

—RAISED—

$119,767

—GOAL—

$42,972

93% of the goal

with 137 of 294 households pledging an average gift of $305

—RAISED—

$42,215

We're almost there!

Your gift helps us do much for our parish and the wider Catholic community by supporting outreach ministries, education, faith formation, and funding shared services that directly support our parishes.

We rely on these centralized services, like human resources, parish financial services, liturgy guidance, communications, and more, so we can continue to focus on our pastoral work here at the parish.

Please look at the annual report to learn about all ministries in the Archdiocese of Seattle.

If you have already donated— thank you. Please inquire with your employer about a matching gift to double or triple your donation!

If you haven't, click the DONATE button above to make your pledge. It is safe, secure, and convenient. There are several options: Ongoing Recurring Gifts, Monthly Pledge Gifts, One-Time Gifts, Stock, DAF, or IRA Gifts.

Dear Friends,

We loved seeing so many familiar faces at Mass at Saint Patrick Catholic Church this weekend, and we look forward to sharing our witness talk at St. Leo Catholic Church next weekend.

Our goal is $250,000 and 100% participation by October 31. We are at 10% participation and $50,322 raised to date. 

If you would like to learn more, you can watch our Annual Fund 24 appeal video.

Leigh Ann and Matt Zehnder

Chairs, Annual Fund 2024 

Youth Confirmation Prep

Are you a 7th-12th grader, age 12-17, baptized into the Catholic Church who has received First Eucharist and is now discerning the Sacrament of Confirmation? 

—starting October 8—

Sundays | 10:30 am - 12:15 pm

following the 9:00 am Mass

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

Parish Center

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Student/Parent Meeting

October 1 | 10:30 am

Bishop Frank Schuster will celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation at a Saturday Vigil Mass in early February 2024.

Registration EXTENDED

Register by September 30. Confirmandi need their Baptism information and your Sponsor's name to complete this registration form. Bring a copy of your baptismal certificate to the first class.

Learn More

To learn more, email Confirmation Leaders Meg Hannan and Brian Donovan.

Christian Initiation

Are you interested in joining the Catholic Church? Register for Christian Initiation sessions.

Tuesdays | 6:00 pm

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

Parish Center

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Learn More

Email Meg Hannan, Baptism & Faith Formation Coordinator, or call 253-274-4112 to learn more about Sacramental Preparation for Baptism, First Holy Communion, Reconciliation, and Confirmation.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd (CGS)

CGS is an approach to faith formation where children 3-12 years old are formed in the Catholic faith in a sacred space called the ‘atrium.

Registration

Current and new families can enroll for sessions from October 2023 to May 2024.

"The first time I walked into an atrium was for what I anticipated would be a brief visit, and I was accompanied by my three-year-old daughter. I paused at the doorway, wanting to caution her before we entered not to touch or break anything. Before I could offer that warning, she quickly and quietly walked inside and moved to a nearby shelf. It was as if the materials, attractively displayed there, seemed to beckon to her... I later came to understand that Dr. Maria Montessori referred to the materials in the prepared environment as 'the voices of things.' It is as if they call to the child, 'Take me! Work with me. Choose me'.'"

Read more in the September Parent Pages to discover why the atrium is the perfect place for young children to develop a relationship with Jesus.

Learn More

To learn more about CGS at Saint Patrick Catholic Church, visit the atrium, serve or train as a catechist, email Kim Ward, CGS Coordinator, or call 253-274-4108. 

For more information, visit the national CGS Association and the local consortium website, The Sheepfold.

Do you need a ride to Mass?

We have a few volunteers who have expressed interest in helping transport parishioners who cannot get to Mass independently. 

Those being transported must live within five miles of Saint Patrick Catholic Church. 

Please email Laura Dougherty or call 253-274-4109 to make arrangements.

Winter Coat & Pajama Drive

Help provide new or gently used, freshly washed coats and pajamas in sizes 12 months to 5T for Pregnancy Aid.

Drop off donations ithe vestibule at Holy Cross Catholic Church and Saint Patrick Catholic Church during October.

Pregnancy Aid serves the well-being of families with children in and beyond the womb by providing material and emotional support.

Stephen Ministry

Are you physically, emotionally, or spiritually going through a tough time? Are you struggling with a personal crisis or challenge? Feeling isolated or lonely?

Consider inviting one of our parish's trained Stephen Ministers to walk alongside you during this difficult time.

For more information, email Laura Dougherty or call 253-274-4109.  

Women & The Word

Ladies of any age are welcome. Bring your coffee and join us as we reflect on God's Word.

—NEW TIME—

Thursdays | 10:00 am

Join us immediately after the 9:00 am Mass with Saint Patrick Catholic School.

Thursdays | 7:00 am

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

Parish Center

All are welcome. Need not be a parishioner or Catholic! Bring your friends.

Bible Study

Studying scripture in a group leads to more profound discovery. Join Deacon Bill Eckert in a bible study on the Gospel according to John. You'll get an overview of the Church's approach to scripture and interpretation.

Tuesdays

4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

Holy Cross Catholic Church

Parish Hall

Bring your bible. Liturgically themed refreshments are provided by a generous parishioner! All are welcome. Need not be a parishioner or Catholic! Bring your friends.

Eucharistic Adoration

Rest in the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist! It'll change your life. All are welcome. Sign-up is required.

—CHAPEL at Holy Cross—

Perpetual Adoration 24/7

To sign up

• call 253-759-3368
• email us
• view open hours

—Saint Patrick Catholic Church—

Mondays | 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm

sign up

Holy Hour for Life

Join us for Eucharistic Adoration, prayer, and confessions.



October 6

Every 1st Friday

6:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Holy Cross Catholic Church

—save the dates—

November 3, December 1

Source + Summit

Come together to grow in fellowship through worship, music, and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. This night is for you, your family, friends, and neighbors, young or old.



October 4

Every 1st Wednesday

6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

—save the dates—

November 1, December 6

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If Adoration sounds daunting, don't worry. We'll explain what Adoration is, grow together experiencing the Eucharist, the source and summit of our faith, and meet Jesus where you are!

—Schedule—

6:30 pm | Dinner in the Church Hall

7:15 pm | Adoration & Worship Music

7:30 pm | Reflection topic presented

8:00 pm | Adoration ends

To learn more, email Lauren Muraski or call her at 901-287-9065.

Holy Cross Choir

Come love God through song with the Holy Cross choir.



“He who sings praise is not only singing but loving Him about whom he sings.” —St. Augustine of Hippo— 

Wednesdays | 6:30 pm

Holy Cross Catholic Church

Choir Loft

If you are new to the choir or would like more information, please email or call Erica Minneman, Music Director, at 253-310-7508.

Knights of Columbus

The Knights of Columbus is a global Catholic fraternal service order founded by Michael J. McGivney in 1882 for practicing Catholic men.

—Council 809 News—

Knight of the Month

David Cross

Family of the Month

Andrew & Ann Kormos

Knight Tidings Newsletter

September 2023

—coming up—

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

9:00 am - 11:00 am

October 29

December 31

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—standing meetings—

Meetings are held at 6:30 pm in the Church Hall at Saint Patrick Catholic Church or via Go to Meeting virtually.

ROSARY

2nd Thursday of the month

except for July & August

OFFICER PLANNING MEETING

3rd Tuesday of the month

MEMBERSHIP MEETING & SOCIAL

4th Tuesday of the month

To learn more, call 253-380-4000 or email the Knights. Follow on Facebook.

Holy Cross Sale

Holy Cross hosts a quarterly sale to raise funds for charitable works. Check out some of the new and gently used items!

—upcoming sale—

December 1 - 2

10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Holy Cross Catholic Church

Share

Shop Friday and Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm with a $5 bag sale on Saturday from 2:00 pm - to 4:00 pm.

Sale Preparation

Volunteers are needed to prep for upcoming sales!

Tuesdays

10:00 am - 2:00 pm 

Holy Cross Catholic Church

Youth Convention

Deepen your relationship with God.

Join hundreds of high school youth to experience God through community and joy, learning, and prayer!

November 4

St. Michael Church, Olympia

Learn More

Mass Consumption

Young adults are invited to delve into the Word and share faith while discussing the daily readings.

Mondays

6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

Parish Center

Facebook Group | Instagram

Learn More | Email

September 26 | 9:00 am

for the repose of the soul of 

Buddy Elston

September 27 | 9:00 am  

for the repose of the soul of 

Dragica Dragovcic

September 28 | 9:00 am

for the repose of the soul of 

Bryce Holbrook

September 29 | 9:00 am

for the repose of the soul of 

Josie Smith

September 30 | 5:00 pm

October 1 | 9:00 am 11:00 am 7:00 pm

for the people of the parish

September 25 | 9:00 am

for the repose of the soul of  

Dennis Hickey

September 27 | 5:00 pm

for the repose of the soul of   

Vinko Jerkovich

September 28 | 9:00 am

for the repose of the soul of 

Jim Keithley

September 29 | 9:00 am

for the repose of the soul of    

Dennis Hickey

September 30 | 5:00 pm

October 1 | 10:00 am

for the people of the parish

We pray for our sick,

Paul Keller, Bob Lane, Anna Maria Fabre, John Gallo, Chris Webber, John Bosse, Molly Cleary, Rob Swift, Manuel Peralta, Georgeann Cukjati, Doug Jones, Jlynn Callahan, Angie Allen, Ann Kormos, Joan Bruce, Millie McNerthney, Tagi Leau, Glenna Toledo, Andre Franco, Michelle Devettori, Janet McIntyre, Norm Christenson, Toni Mineo, Marla Grassi, and Patricia Smurro



We pray for our dead,

Tom Holt, Joyce Hunter, Gerrie Woods, and Roberta Doyea

Men's Prayer Group

Men of all ages gather to read the day's scripture and a reflection from the Word Among Us.

Fridays

6:45 am - 7:30 am

Saint Patrick Catholic Church

Church Hall

They also read and discuss books focused on faith. Past reads include Weight of Glory by CS Lewis, Mercy: What Every Catholic Should Know by Daniel Moloney, and He Leadeth Me by Fr. Walter Ciszek, which Fr. David highly recommended.

1123 North J Street

Tacoma, WA 98403

253-383-2783

—Mass Times—

Saturday Vigil Mass

5:00 pm

Sunday Mass

9:00 am | 11:00 am | 7:00 pm

Daily Mass

Tuesday - Friday | 9:00 am*

*except at 11:00 am on the first Friday of the month from October - May for Senior First Friday Mass & Lunch

Mass with the Saint Patrick Catholic School every Thursday September - June



—Confessions—

Saturday | 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

—Office Hours—

Tuesday - Thursday

9:30 am - 3:30 pm

5510 North 44th Street

Tacoma, WA 98407

253-759-3368

—Mass Times—

Saturday Vigil Mass

5:00 pm

Sunday Mass

10:00 am

Mass in Samoan

12:00 pm | 2nd & 4th Sunday

Daily Mass

Monday | Thursday | Friday | 9:00 am

Wednesday | 5:00 pm

—Confessions—

Saturday | 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm

—Office Hours—

Monday - Friday

8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Have you explored the local wonders like the Ape Caves? Scout Troop 299 Girls did! 

Joining Scouts isn't just about the outdoors; it's about building confidence, developing leadership skills, and forming lifelong friendships. Plus, it's a chance to embrace your inner explorer and conquer new challenges!

Embark on unforgettable adventures, gain valuable life skills, and explore awe-inspiring places like Ape Caves; consider joining Girls Troop 299. We can't wait to welcome you to Scouts! 

Email Valerie Pettit, Troop Leader, to learn more.

Do you have a photo, video, or story to share? Please email it to [email protected].

Stay connected!

Like. Follow. Subscribe. Share. Comment. Chat.

How to Reach Us

Email [email protected] or leave a voicemail at 253-383-2783. Messages are checked daily and routed to the appropriate staff person. If you need the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, call 253-383-2783, extension 4102, and leave a message.