As the most wonderful time of the year approaches, we’re gearing up for our 2025 Season of Giving. As St. Francis of Assisi reminds us, “it is in giving that we receive.” So, we’re decking the halls with opportunities to spread Christmas cheer near and far. From toy drives and teen mission trips to angel trees and gift cards galore, there are many ways to give, serve and share Christmas joy.

🎁Read all the way to the end to see every way you can get into the holiday spirit.

Bless Globally, Support Community Outreach

Make the holidays merry and bright for neighbors in need...

Christmas Elves

Nov 1 to Nov 16

Collecting toys and stocking stuffers for orphans at Mission Our Lady of the Angels.

👉 See the wish list in the vestibule or [download it here], then drop off items in the collection bins by Sunday, November 16.

Christmas Angels

Nov 15/16 Adopt a Family

Dec 13/14 Drop Gifts in the “Sleigh”

Pick a family ornament from the Angel Trees (weekend of Nov 15/16) and shop for each family member. 🎁 Wrap and return all gifts (with family number attached) to the “sleigh” at St. Julian Eymard Church by Dec 13/14.

💫 Know a family who could use some extra Christmas cheer this year?

We’re always looking to support our friends and neighbors. If you know of a family who may be a good fit for Christmas Angels, please contact us. Spots are limited and certain criteria may apply. Follow this link to provide your contact info and our Christmas Angel coordinator will contact you. Family names are never shared, not even with the parish office, to protect privacy.

WINGS Pantry Drive

Nov 23 – Dec 14

Purchase critically-needed non-perishable food items, hygiene products, household supplies and pajamas and slippers in youth and adult sizes to help survivors of domestic violence rebuild their lives. See wish lists in the vestibule and drop items off Nov 23–Dec 14.

Supporting Local Blood Drives

December 13

❤️ Give the gift of life! Sign up here to reserve your time slot at Elk Grove's last Community Blood Drive of the year.

Shop Local, Support Our Parish & School

Fuel ministry and programs that touch lives all year round...

Alpha

Help us keep a seat at the table for everyone to explore faith through conversation, community, and a shared meal. Follow this link to support Alpha at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish.

GIFT Parish Endowment Fund

Empower faith, fellowship, and fun by supporting everything from Wine 'n Paint events and parish pilgrimages to teen retreats and Fall Fest favorites. Follow this link and select fund "GIFT Parish Endowment" from the dropdown to support the GIFT Fund.

Parish Poor Box

Donations to our parish poor box fund outreach such as gas, grocery and food gift cards for neighbors in need or offset some expenses for our Good Samaritan community outreach. See the poor box in the vestibule at both Queen of the Rosary and St. Julian Eymard or contact the parish office to make a donation.

Youth Ministry

Help our teens grow in faith at Kairos (Jan) and Catholic Heart Work Camp (June). Every dollar helps offset rising travel and program costs! Follow this link to support our Youth Ministry.

Santa's Secret Shoppe

Students (and now RE kids!) shop for their families while supporting our Queen of the Rosary School. Follow this link to help Parents Club stock the shelves!

Holiday Gift Card Program

Get ready to shop with spirit! Our Christmas Gift Card Fundraiser is coming soon — the easiest way to give gifts and give back to our Queen of the Rosary School. 🎄✨ Stay tuned — full details and link coming shortly!

Grand Raffle

Don’t miss your chance to win $10,000! Tickets are $25 each or 5 tickets for $100. Purchase through the parish or school office or from volunteers at Mass (Nov 1/2 & Dec 6/7).

✨ Grand Prize Drawing: Sunday, Dec 7 at our Pictures with Santa & the Grinch event in the QR School gym!

Let’s make this Season of Giving one that overflows with faith, joy, and generosity. Every act of giving — big or small — helps us share God’s love with others.

If you have any questions or would like to support these activities, but prefer to donate in person, please feel free to reach out to Mary Ellen in the Parish Office at (847) 979-0901 x1007 or mottenstein@archchicago.org..