Dear Susan,

Salutations! How are you? A couple of days ago on the 18th of this month, the Universal Christian family celebrated the life and witness of St. Luke the Evangelist. He is credited as being one of the missionary companions of St. Paul throughout the ancient world in addition to being the author of the Third Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. He is known as the Patron Saint of artists, brewers, butchers, painters, physicians, sculptors, and surgeons among other professions and trades (catholicculture.org).

The Gospel attributed to his authorship under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit has some unique features:

1. Based on word count it is the longest of the Four Gospels and the longest New Testament Book.
2. The symbol representative of his Gospel is the Ox. This is based on a prophetic vision described in Ezekiel 1:1-14 and the association of the Gospel with sacrificial offerings within the Temple.
3. It is believed that Luke was the only Gentile Evangelist, that is to say a convert to Judaism/Christianity.
4. Details within the Gospel showcase the medical knowledge of Luke as a doctor. He was referred to by St. Paul in his Letter to the Colossians 4:14 as a physician.
5. There are a number of famous parables that are found exclusively within the Gospel according to Luke including the Two Sons, the Rich Man and Lazarus, and the Good Samaritan.

(Source: jesusfilm.org)

Through the intercession of St. Luke may we proclaim Jesus Christ through our writings, our artistic works, our conversations, our efforts to heal others, and in all we think, say, and do for the greater glory of God!  

Joy With Christ,

Fr. James Peterson

The Responsorial Psalm for Mass today (Psalm 33) states that, “The earth is full of the__________of the Lord.”

A. Goodness

B. Mercy

C. Peace

D. Joy   

See the bottom of this newsletter for the answer.

This beautiful Service of prayer, psalms, hymns and scripture readings will be dedicated to the memory of all our loved ones.

Those who died and were buried from our parish within the past year will be remembered by name, through prayer and the light of Christ. For those who have lost a loved one in the past year from other parishes, states, etc., or have not received an invitation by mail, please call to include your loved one in this beautiful service.

We have only the names of those who celebrated the Mass of the Resurrection at Immaculate Conception. Please call the parish office as soon as possible with your name, address, the name of the deceased, and date of death at 763-788-9062 to have them included. Names must be received by October 27. God bless each of you.

Director of Operations

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church is seeking a Director of Operations to actively manage the day-to-day operations, facilities management, finances and human resources. This position will work alongside the pastor to lead the operational aspects of the parish. This individual will oversee the administrative and office staff, maintenance supervisor, contracted finance team, communication and information technology.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business or related field.
• Practicing Catholic
• Required: 5+ years of experience in management of operations; 5+ years of experience in supervising staff; experience in working with vendors and outside contractors.
• Experience in managing budgets
• Proficiency in computer programs including Excel, Word and Outlook
• Ability to build a positive work culture through the empowerment of his/her team
• Bi-lingual (Spanish) is preferred, but not required
• Ability to pass a criminal background check and credit check

Immaculate Conception is a very dynamic and caring bi-lingual parish! More than 1,000 households make a yearly commitment to share their treasure. 1,200 shared (volunteer) ministers willingly share their time and talent through 75 parish ministries. In addition to stewardship, Immaculate Conception’s core values include a commitment to quality liturgy, Catholic education, and caring for one another.

A complete job posting is available at parish.icconline.org.

Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume and references to Lisa Sammon via email at lisa@yourlss.com. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Director of Advancement

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and School is seeking a Director of Advancement to work collaboratively with the pastor and principal in creating the vision for advancement and stewardship efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability of the parish and school. This position will implement the vision by building relationships and increasing engagement of parishioners, school families, alumni, past parents and supporters through outreach, mission-based fundraising, parish stewardship, planned giving, and sponsorships. The focus of the role will be approximately 80% on school advancement efforts and 20% on parish stewardship and events.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field strongly preferred.
• 3-5 years of experience in advancement and/or development is required.
• Volunteer management and board experience are a plus.
• Demonstrated leadership and effectiveness in developing and accomplishing organizational goals.
• Ability to build a team, effectively recruit and manage volunteers.
• Practicing Catholic is preferred.
• Ability to appreciate and communicate a passion for Catholic elementary education.
• Experience in a not-for-profit environment, parochial, independent school is preferred.
• Superior communication skills, ability to conceptualize and execute strategic plans, the ability to interact confidently and effectively with school staff, students, donors, trustees (board members), school administration, the media and alumni.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel) is required.
• Bi-lingual (Spanish) is preferred but not required.
• Flexibility working the schedule outlined for the position on a regular basis.
• A “hand’s on” approach willing to help as needed.
• Successfully complete standard Archdiocese Background Checks and Virtus training.

Immaculate Conception is a very dynamic and caring bi-lingual parish! More than 1,000 households make a yearly commitment to share their treasure. Parishioners willingly share their time and talent through various parish ministries. In addition to stewardship, Immaculate Conception’s core values include a commitment to quality liturgy, Catholic education, and caring for one another.

A complete job posting is available at parish.icconline.org.

Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume and references to Lisa Sammon via email at lisa@yourlss.com. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

You can watch with your free parish subscription by simply selecting our parish’s name during registration at formed.org/signup.

A. Goodness

You're receiving this email because of your relationship with Immaculate Conception Church and School. To no longer receive messages from Fr. James Peterson, please click the link at the bottom of this email to unsubscribe. Thank you.