“SPREADING THE JOY OF THE GOSPEL” -- 2018-19 BISHOP’S APPEAL ~ This weekend we “kick-off” the annual Bishop’s Appeal with an in-pew collection, after the homily at all Masses. Through the Bishop’s Appeal all parishes unite and become one family to support and sustain the programs and services which educate the young, care for the elderly, feed the hungry, house the homeless and strengthen our Catholic faith in our homes, parishes and communities.  Additionally, your support of the Appeal ensures that individual parishes are provided with essential diocesan support services. Last year we met our goal and with everyone’s assistance we expect to do the same this year!  Our goal this year is $199,166 which is 3%. lower than last year’s assessment.  Please consider making a pledge, which you can pay throughout the year.  Thank you in advance for your generous support, helping us meet our obligation to our Diocese.

SAVE THE DATE ~ On May 18, Father Leskovar will celebrate the 50 ^th anniversary of his ordination to the Priesthood. Father will preside at the 11:00 Mass on May 20 (Pentecost Sunday) to mark this milestone. Hospitality will follow in the Gathering Hall. All of us at St Thomas the Apostle congratulate Father Leskovar on this Golden Jubilee and are so grateful for his many years of dedicated priestly service to the parish. Ad multos annos!
CONFIRMATION ~ Bishop Scharfenberger will be with us to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation this Friday, May 11 at 6:30 p.m. May the Lord bless all our candidates who have completed their preparation for this sacrament and may the Spirit of the Risen Christ continue to guide them throughout their adult lives
 
ASCENSION THURSDAY ~ This Thursday, May 10, is Ascension Thursday. We will offer Masses at  7:30 a.m. and 12:15 and 5:30 p.m. All are encouraged to join us for Eucharist on this holy day!
 
WELCOME NEW PARISHIONERS ~  David and Amy Cavallo and their son, David and Maureen Carey.

ELECTRONIC GIVING --A CONVENIENT METHOD FOR FINANCIALLY SUPPORTING THE PARISH ~ As many parishioners know, our electronic giving program, through Vanco, is a convenient and secure method for making contributions to the parish, whether it's offertory contributions, donations for other holy days, or even the Bishop's Appeal. You can set it up to make contributions weekly, monthly or annually and it ensures that your support to the parish is on an ongoing basis.  No more filling out envelopes, or forgetting to issue a "make-up" check for times that you are away.  It is a simple process, and you can make changes directly as needed. We encourage you to take advantage of this program, and there are several options to get you started. You can now go to our website,  www.stthomas-church.org, click on electronic giving on the home page  which sends you to the electronic giving page that has a link  to the Vanco site.  Also, myParishapp now provides that same option, so you can contribute any time, from any where using your smartphone!  And, there is still an option to complete the Vanco application form, found on the oval table near the Community bulletin board.  Questions about Vanco or need help? Please contact Pat Holm in the parish office.