Author: Brian O'Curran

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A good time was had by all. This event is always well attended and the food was really very good.

Saturday, February 23, 2019
DeCarlo’s Banquet & Convention Center
6015 East 10 Mile Rd. Warren, Michigan 48091

Who in the world thought giving me the ladle was a good idea?
  • Kathy Nardozzi and Brian
  • The Crew
  • Greg and Kathy
  • Mark and Sandi
  • Christine and Alan
  • Knights on Bikes
  • Luke and Russ Morgan
  • My Muff
  • Sister Val
  • Sister Val – My Favorite nun!

Because we were just not ready to call it a night, we had to stop by the Sandbagger and have just one more. Just one.

Detroit Archdiocese, Knights of Columbus, Michigan State Council, State Chaplain, DeCarlo’s Banquet,

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Well, how are we doing? We’re a month in. Did you make any goals for yourself? No? Most people don’t. Why? I’m sure there are a variety of reasons. Maybe the most common reason goes something like this, “why bother? After a couple weeks I’m totally off-course.”

Don’t beat yourself up. The first week of February is a fine time to get it together and start over. If you’re looking for diet, relationship, financial or career goals, this isn’t isn’t the right place. However, if you’re a Catholic man of faith and want to up your game this year, you have arrived.

I’ve been binging on Dr. Taylor Marshall for several months. This guy is totally legit. I’d strongly encourage you to get in the flow of his material. He’s putting out a couple very serious podcasts every week. You can follow him on YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, Podcasts, Facebook, his website or his New Saint Thomas Institute site. Yeah, there’s plenty here. He’ll be in the top five when I finally get around to finishing our Resources page. If you’ve watched, listened and enjoyed to any of the Bishop Robert Barron stuff I’ve been sharing, you’ll definitely be into this. They are on the same intellectual footing.

With that set up, I want to give you a direct link this the YouTube video below. Please watch it. I’ve listened to it several times. It’s very good. I’m going to make reviewing this an every-December event. Most of what follows is summarized from this episode of Dr Marshall’s YouTube channel. What I’m saying is, from this point on, I don’t own the intellectual property of the content that follows, it belongs to Dr Marshall and his respective companies or to the content creators as linked herein.

This is the plan for holiness. This is the plan for us men to become Saints. We’re called to lead in our homes, parish, community, and in our councils; this is how to lead. Follow this plan and be the leader God wants you to become.

Daily

  • Pray the rosary every day. No exceptions. Find the 20 minutes and do it. Dr Marshall has several episodes on the Secrets of Fatima and Akita. Our Blessed Holy Mother has made it abundantly clear, we need to pray the Rosary. Every day.
  • Examination of conscience every day, use the PALE GAS. Don’t forget the daughters as outlined as St Thomas Aquinas. Watch the short video below on how to do this.
  • Pray the Angelus three times a day. Click here for more info.
  • Read the Bible every single day. Use this guide – LINK. Using this guide, you’ll read the Bible in one year. It’s not an impossible task to get through it. Ignorance of scripture is ignorance of Christ.

Weekly

  • Go to Mass, but to prepare the night before.  Don’t just show up. Review the readings. I subscribe to the USCB daily readings emails. I also listen every week to Bishop Barron’s Sermon podcast.
  • A weekly examination of conscience before receiving the Blessed Eucharist. Also, get a good missal. Recommended; The Father LaSance Missal – LINK. Follow the same examination of conscience as discussed above.

Monthly

  • Confession at least once a month
  • Eucharistic adoration, First Friday, St Clement calls them Holy Hour and they’re typically on Monday evening. They’re held once a month so, that fit in just perfectly.

Annual

  • A Retreat or pilgrimage. This used to be easy. Every year we took the 8th Grade Catechism kids to Marianhill on Retreat. It always was the weekend before Christmas. The timing was perfect. That retreat no longer is an option. Luckily, there are several options within a couple miles of Romeo. Last year, the Knights started a yearly retreat. That would be a good choice for this upcoming year.

There it is. A plan. An easy to follow plan. A plan for battle. Yes, it’s going to take a little work. Being a Saint always does. As Bishop Barron says, “who’s in heaven? Saints are in heaven. When we get to heaven, we’ll be Saints.” Start now. Take up your rosary and start. There is no more powerful weapon than the rosary. As a Knight, you should have it with you at all times. Take it out of your pocket and use it.

The Church needs men of faith and men of action. In these dark times, stand up and be counted.

And in closing, if you’re looking for gift ideas for me… Dr Marshall has some super sweet swag. I’d look really good drinking coffee out of this V is for Vigano mug. There are also teeshirts.

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It was another record-breaking year.  Santa and his elves took up residence in the social hall most of the day today.   And, as you’ll soon see, it wasn’t only the kids that wanted in on the action.   

Thank you to everyone that showed up to help, thanks to the kids and parents.    If you’d like to use these photos, please do.   Merry Christmas. 

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We call it that because, without a little (or a lot) of support from home, we’d not be able to do all the things we do.   Before dinner, Joe Suminski our Grand Knight and evening’s Master of Ceremony started by turning things over to Gary Kopp.  Gary is the District Deputy.  He collects money in an oversized baby bottle at every meeting he attends.  Periodically, he dispurses those funds to worthy causes.  Since we all love Sister Val, last night was her turn to recieve the monies to further her ood works. 

The December Knight of the Month is Dan O’Brien.  He is at every single event we have and more than likely is being pressed into service making coffee

The December Family of the Month is lovely Sandy and Mark DiPaola. Mark is the Deputy Grand Knight and is fully involved in every aspect of our mission. 

The Family of the Year are the McKinnon’s.  Mike has been our Recorder for many years.  Matt has been Financial Secretary and a Trustee.  With MaryAnn, they are very involved with all our events and activities.  They coordinate and give the prayer books and cards to the families requesting a Rosary.  They also present all wedded couples at St Clement a very nice bible as part of the wedding Mass.   They really are the most awesome people!  

The Lady of Year goes to Jean Illner.  Jean is very active in the Parish and her and Karrie are our Domestic Church Couple.  Together, they lead the Parish and Family Life Ministry for the Parish.  They had the good sense to leave for Florida before it got cold.  So, I’ll just hand your major award in my office till you get back!  🙂 

And the Knight of the Year go to Norm Rumph.  Norm has held many officer positions over the years and was a charter member of 7018.  He’s been a Knight for 65 years.  Despite being almost 90, Norm is at Mass every week and helps out at everything.  When Joe announced he was Knight of the Year, the room exploded in applause and cheering.  Later in the evening, the leader of the band said, “I can tell there’s a lot of love for Norm based on the reaction he got.”  He’s not wrong.  Congratulations Norm! 

With all that out of the way, we spent the rest of the evening having a wonderful time.  

  • YOu guys, get a room!

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Hi Friends (yeah, I co-opted that from Bishop Barron.)

Today is Giving Tuesday.  As many of you know, I’m a huge Word On Fire fan.  I think this is some of the finest Catholic content around.  This video is 14 minutes long and is well worth your time to review.  It’s easy to find yourself in these three people.  They’ve all had life-changing experiences using the Word of Fire material.

wof test

It starts out small and builds.  After following along for a year or so, I’m looking forward to Bishop Barron’s weekly podcasts.  He does two each week.  One is a free-ranging show based on what’s going on in the Church or the headlines.  The other podcast is his weekly homily.  I challenge you, listen to the homily podcast and then attend Mass.  It will absolutely change your experience.  If it doesn’t, I’ll happily refund your 60-minute investment.

Homilies podcast – LINK.
Word on Fire Show – LINK

If you’ve not experienced Word on Fire, please check them out.  If you’ve been buying their materials, please continue.  If his ministry has changed your life – consider donating to their good works.  I can say very definitively, this guy has changed my life.  Follow him, listen to what he says.  Support his ministry.

Click the image below and review all the goodness they’ve produced for us this year and make a donation.  May your faith, like a mustard seed, grow into a mighty plant.

barron

Images are from the Word on Fire website and are the property of Word on Fire Ministries.  © Word on Fire 2018. All Rights Reserved

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We’re brothers in good times and in bad.  This is one of the bad times.  Shannon posted this morning that Mark’s son Danny passed away yesterday.  She asked me to get the word out.

Daniel Esper
Malburg Funeral Home
Saturday, November 10th
Visitation 1-8pm
Service at 7pm

I have the untoward job of sending these kinds of notes. This particular time, I’m saddened beyond words.  This is every parent’s worst case scenario.  Mark has a big heart.  I can barely imagine the pain it’s experienced.   I’m going to call my son right now and tell him I love him.

You’re all men of deep faith.  Please hold Mark, Danny, Shannon and their entire family up in prayer.  Keep them in your prayers going forward.  Prayer matters.

Shannon’s post on Facebook today.

danny

In happier times.

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RIP Danny

danny

Please make an effort to show up on Saturday.

 

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My Brothers and Sisters in Christ. The 4th Degree Assembly of the Knights of Columbus Assembly #3057 wish to thank all our parishioners that contributed to the household goods drive for the “Vets Returning Home” facility. The Assembly and The Vets Returning Home were touched by your generosity. We thank you for helping us help our veterans that are in need.

Keep our veterans in your prayers!!

God Bless!!

K of C 4th Degree Assembly #3057

Vets Returning Home website – LINK
Vets Returning Home Facebook Page – LINK

 

 

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Ladies Gifts LOGO WordPress

You may know it as the Holy Cross Coat Drive but, it’s much bigger than that.  Council 7018 will once again be collecting the items mentioned below for Holy Cross Services.   If you can help out with any of the items below, please do.  We will collect them and our District Deputy, the Illustrious Gary Kopp will take them to the Michigan State Winter Meeting.   Gary will pick the items us at our regular membership meeting on November 16th.

Info on the items, how to pack and wrap follows:

  • The best sweatshirts are those with a sports team or college logo. Buy them in Large, XL, XXL, XXXL, and even XXXXL. These are all adult-sizes. Hoodies are very popular, as are fleece sweatshirts. Embroidered sweatshirts and hoodies cost more, but that’s okay! Just buy fewer, better quality sweatshirts. Please keep in mind this may be the only Christmas gift they receive this year. Package the sweatshirts in decorated gift boxes (or wrap plain boxes) and write the size on the outside. If the sweatshirt is only for a girl or only for a boy, write that on the box also. Place all gift boxes of like sizes in a heavy packing box and mark the outside of the box. That way we will know what is inside the box, and it can go directly onto the semi-truck, thus saving anyone from sorting again.
  • One way to help HCS with young adults and children is to purchase gift cards in the amounts of $5.00 or $10.00 from Target, Walmart, or Meijer. The cards MUST be from one of these three stores. These stores were chosen by HCS because they are located state-wide, thus allowing councils from all over the state to be involved. Cash and checks are also welcome. These gifts will help HCS in caring for young pregnant girls and girls with babies and toddlers in order to assist them on life’s journey. HCS does not receive federal or state assistance for the purchase of baby items such as diapers, bottles, formula, socks, toys, bibs, etc. Gift cards, cash, and checks should all be brought to the collection room at the Winter Meeting where they will be received, totaled, and presented to HCS.
  • Scarves, mittens, hats, & gloves, can be handmade or store-bought. They continue to be popular with teenagers and with the mothers with small children. Bring them to the Winter Meeting either loose or in the manufacturer’s plastic bag. Please do not box these items.
  • Bath baskets filled with personal hygiene items gives the girls at Holy Cross their very own personal items and a way to take these items with them to their showers. Please follow these directions:
  • Purchase items at a local dollar store.
  • If you wish, coordinate products by color or scent.
  • Return the filled basket(s) to the Winter Meeting.
  • Please choose ONLY one of each item per basket from the list below. Please: NO SCISSORS, HAIRSPRAY, NAIL CLIPPERS, BRUSHES, PENCILS, SHARP OBJECTS, AEROSOL CANS (pump sprays are OK). All baskets must be similar in order to avoid rivalry!!! The total cost should be no more than $10.00. 1. Shampoo 6. Hair gel or mousse 2. Conditioner 7. Body lotion or hand lotion 3. Body wash, scrub or gel 8. Deodorant 4. Toothpaste & Brush 9. Bath puff/Loofa 5. Chap stick 10. Emery boards Fill the basket and place it in a plastic bag. If you have several baskets, place them in a sturdy box ready to go on the truck headed for Holy Cross Services.
  • Sheets for our kids was a need that was made known by Holy Cross, and our Knight’s Ladies have collected 300 sets of twin bed sheets. A warm set of sheets for someone in an unfamiliar place. Just bring your sheet sets to the Winter Meeting ready to go directly on the truck bound for Holy Cross.

Any questions please contact Mrs. Chris Brennan at 313-388-3238 or chrisbee at wowway dot com.

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Have you heard about online membership?  Do you have questions? This new video will answer those questions.   Please feel free to contact us directly with any further questions.  Watch the video, read the info below, contemplate how you’ll grow as a Catholic man.

Ready?  Go here –> LINK.  Tell them you’d like to be part of Council 7018, St Clement of Rome in Romeo, Michigan (cuz we are the coolest!)

WHY ONLINE MEMBERSHIP?

The Supreme Council has conducted numerous listening sessions and surveys with both members and non-members over the last few years. Among the many findings was a strong indication that the Supreme Council should develop a new, online way to recruit potential members and form those men for committed, lifelong membership in the Knights of Columbus.

This new fraternal program seeks to help the Order maintain sustainable long-term membership growth by providing the opportunity for membership throughout the modern man’s life cycle. This streamlined alternative helps acclimate men to the Order. Once a man has joined online, we will then work to incorporate him into a council and get him fully integrated with its activities.

WHAT ONLINE MEMBERSHIP DOES

This initiative is an important step for our Order, and presents a tremendous opportunity for membership growth and engagement. The initiative allows for:

A Faster Way to Join – One of the most common objections to joining the Knights of Columbus is “I don’t have time.” Through Online Membership, a join process that can take as many as two months now takes five minutes.

A Digital Experience –This initiative provides a new membership experience that is tailored to younger men and busier men who may not yet be ready for council-based membership. This low-pressure, low-commitment and digital experience meets men where they are, helps to form them as Catholic men, and enables us to bring more men into the fold.

An Amplified Message – The Online Membership initiative is backed by a substantial marketing campaign that will find and work to convert prospective members.

WHAT ONLINE MEMBERSHIP DOES NOT DO
The Online Membership Initiative

  • Does not change requirements for membership. Membership in the Knights of Columbus remains open to practical Catholic men.
  • Does not eliminate degrees. Men who join online are non-degreed members. Once they are ready to convert to a local council, they are required to take the first degree.
  • Does not eliminate councils. The goal of online membership is to form men for committed, lifelong and council- based membership in the Knights of Columbus. In fact, Online Membership creates a pool of recruits for local councils to engage with.
  • Does not eliminate dues. Online Members are required to pay $30 annual dues.
  • Does not create a new class or type of member. Online Members are members of the Knights of Columbus. They are non-degreed members, and they do not belong to local councils, but they are not provisional or partial members.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will these members do?

Once they have completed their registration, men who join the Order online will be given access to a web-based Online Membership portal and will begin receiving regular electronic communication from the Supreme Council. While they will receive a number of other benefits, the digital experience will form the core of their Knights of Columbus experience.

Content distributed to the member through the portal and direct communication will revolve around the four themes of: Lead with Faith, Protect Your Family, Serve Others and Defend Your Values.

Through these four themes, these men will not only grow as individuals, but will become acclimated with the good work and rich history of the Knights of Columbus, thereby strengthening their affinity with the Knights of Columbus brand, and setting the stage for lifelong, active membership. They will also receive regular news updates from the Supreme Council, as well as news and event information from their State Council.

Do these members belong to councils?

Online Members do not belong to local councils. Instead, they belong to state divisions. Each jurisdiction will have one state division, which houses all of that jurisdiction’s Online Members

How do these members differ from members of local councils?

Though they have not yet taken the first degree, online members are members of the Knights of Columbus. As members, they are entitled to all of the great benefits listed in the “Membership Benefits” section above. These benefits include: a welcome package, access to the Online Membership portal, a membership card, Columbia, and the ability to participate in our insurance program. They are not a different “class” or “type” of member, but as they are not yet degreed members and not yet members of local councils, they are at the earliest stage of their Knights of Columbus journey.

Can these members join local councils?

Yes. State division members who have joined online can transition to local council membership, just as members from other local councils do today. When a State Division member finds a local council he likes, he may deepen his involvement in the Knights of Columbus by converting his membership from his State Division into that local council to take his degrees. Since these members will not have taken the first degree, that ceremonial will be part of their transition to a local council.

How will councils know about these potential new members?

During the application process, applicants will need to provide the name of the parish they attend. There is a field to indicate if they would like to join a local council, and the opportunity to indicate their preferred council number if they have one. When a member indicates he wants to join a local council, the member becomes viewable in Officers Online by the State Deputy, State Membership Director and Online Membership Coordinator as an unassigned prospect. When the member indicates a specific council he is viewable in Officers Online as an assigned prospect of that council.

How would a council admit a member who joined online into their council?

Transferring online members to local councils can be done through the Officers Online Portal. You can read more about this process by clicking here. Financial Secretary’s can also fill out a form 100 for “transfer” after the First Degree and submit to the Supreme Council. You can transfer the member electronically or by form 100 but not both. After transitioning to a local council, the member would retain his online access to the Knights of Columbus membership experience, but cease paying his membership dues online, and instead begin to pay his local council’s membership dues. The receiving council would receive a dues adjustment for the fraternal year, as well as quota credit for the new member.

How will we know that prospective online members are eligible for membership?

When a prospective member begins the Online Membership application process, the first step is for them to declare that they are: (1) a baptized Catholic male, (2) 18 years of age or older, and (3) a practical Catholic.

Once they check those boxes, and agree to abide by the laws and rules of the Knights of Columbus, they click “Proceed to Join” and proceed to the next page. They cannot continue if any of the boxes have not been checked.

Additionally, before they hit the “proceed to join” button, they are presented with the following message: “Failure to answer truthfully to any of these declarations, or failure to remain a practical Catholic in union with the Holy See, renders void your membership in the Knights of Columbus.”

Prospects are also required to submit parish information during the application process.

 

 

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St Clement to host 2018’s District Free Throw Contest

Your Local K of C to Sponsored Youth Free Throw Championship

All boys and girls ages 9 to 14 are invited to participate in the local level of competition for the 2018 Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship. The local competition will be held on November 10th at 10 AM at St Clement of Rome Catholic Church, 343 S. Main St., Romeo, MI 48065.

The Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship is sponsored annually, with winners progressing through local, district, and state competitions. International champions are announced by the K of C international headquarters based on scores from the state-level competitions. All boys and girls 9 to 14 years old are eligible to participate and will compete in their respective age divisions. Last year more than 120,000 sharpshooters participated in over 3,600 local competitions.

All contestants on the local level are recognized for their participation in the event.  Participants are required to furnish proof of age and written parental consent. For entry forms or additional information contact: Casey Pogodzinski, cpogo07@gmail.com, 586-484-2663 or Brian O’Curran, bocurran@gmail.com, 586-255-5350.  More info at www.RomeoKnights.com/Hoops18 

The Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship is open to all boys and girls in your community, ages 9 to 14. Age eligibility is determined by the age of the contestant as of January 1. Proof of age is required. High school-age athletes should be advised to check with their school athletic directors or their state high school athletic associations regarding possible eligibility conflicts.

AGE SPECIFICATIONS

Ages 9, 10, 11 (Boys & Girls Competitions)

Use a women’s regulation-size basketball and shoot from a 12-foot foul line at a 10-foot-high basket. (NOTE: The normal foul line is 15 feet from the basket. Foul lines at 12 feet from the basket for 10- and 11-year-old divisions should be clearly marked with athletic or masking tape prior to the competition.)

Ages 12, 13, 14 (Girls Competitions)

Use a women’s regulation-size basketball and shoot from the regulation foul line 15 feet from a 10-foot- high basket.

Ages 12, 13, 14 (Boys Competitions)

Use a men’s regulation-size basketball and shoot from the regulation foul line 15 feet from a 10-foot-high basket.

Judges/Scorers/Rebounders

Judges, scorers and rebounders will be selected by the Free Throw Championship chairman at the council level, by the district deputy at the district level, and by the state deputy at the regional and state levels. The recommended minimum is one judge, two scorers and a rebounder at each basket. It is recommended that volunteer parents be utilized in age groups other than the group(s) in which their child (children) competes. The judge will ensure that each participant receives the proper warm-up tosses and will point out any foul- shooting violations (see Scoring section). All questions will be resolved by the judges and Free Throw Championship chairman. Scorers should refer to the scoring instructions included on the entry form/score sheet. The rebounder will catch the ball and give to the next contestant.

Scoring

Normal rules of basketball regarding free throws apply for all levels of competition. Free Throw violations include stepping on or over the line prior to the ball reaching the rim, or shots rebounding off the “out of bounds” basket support and equipment. Scorers should record baskets made and missed on each attempt according to the instructions on the entry form/score sheet. It is recommended that multiple scorers be assigned to each basket for scoring accuracy and comparison. All scores should be verified before the next contestant is allowed to shoot. The use of videotape recording of the competition is not recommended to resolve questions on scoring totals. The judges and scorers and actual entry form/score sheets should determine final scores.

Competition Levels

Council Level Each contestant receives three warm-up tosses followed by 15 consecutive Free Throw attempts from the appropriate age-designated foul line (see the Court/Equipment/Age section for proper ball sizes and foul line distances). To break a tie, contestants take a second round of five free throws. No warm-up tosses are permitted for the tie-breaker rounds. Successive rounds of five free throws each continue until a winner emerges.

District, Regional, State Levels Each contestant receives three warm-up tosses followed by 25 consecutive free throw attempts from the foul line. To break a tie, contestants take a second round of five free throws. No warm-up tosses are permitted for the tie-breaker rounds. Successive rounds of five free throws each continue until a winner emerges.

International Level International champions are determined on the basis of best scores submitted from the state-level competitions in each age category.

NOTE:
In the event that a winner in any level cannot participate in the next level of competition, the second- place winner should represent the area for that age group

If you’d like us to send your parents (or someone in your household who’s 18 or more) a reminder of this event, please fill out the form below.  You will receive 1 email and/or 1 text message.  Your information will then be deleted and not retained.

The Knights of Columbus is an international Catholic family fraternal service organization with over 1.8 million members in 15,000 local councils. Last year, Knights donated over 70 million volunteer hours and $170 million to charitable and benevolent causes, sponsoring projects to benefit their church, councils, communities, culture of life, families and youth.

 

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Saturday night we attended the 2018 Installation of Officers for District # 24.  The ceremony was held at St John Vianney with 5 councils attending.  In the thoughts of Gary Kopp, a heartfelt thank you for the service of the outgoing officers.  Another crop of men have stepped up to do the good work of the order.

This is some of the team for one quick drink afterwards at Youngers in Romeo.  One and done!

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On July 14, Parish and Family Life is having a work day at St. Clement. We will be cleaning up the picnic grove and prayer garden, re-setting the benches for the Stations of the Cross and setting in a new fire pit. Everyone of all ages is invited. Bring your gloves, tools and wheelbarrows and you’ll get to a chance to work shoulder-to-shoulder with your parish family!

We will begin at 8 a.m. with prayer and the Knights of Columbus will provide breakfast and lunch.”  Would you please sign up HERE if you can come by and help us out??

Questions??  Call Karrie Illner at 1-586-337-4225

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St Clement had the privilege to host a First Degree ceremony last night.   Several councils showed up and we welcomed six new brothers to the benefits of membership.  Thanks to the officers of the respective councils for driving attendance and participation.

Thanks to Gary ( DJ Rapper name “Gary Fuzzy Koppalicious” ) Kopp to keep the juicy tunes going all night long.

 

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Being a charitable organization, the Knights get many requests for assistance.  Those requests run the gamut from lite yard work to helping a family get re-established.  We got word about Katlyn from the Grand Knight of another council; he tagged me in a Facebook post.  Of course, we’d absolutely want to help Katlyn and Giovanni.  I was gearing up the communication machine to reach out to the membership.  We’ve done things like his before and it’s amazing the stuff people are willing to part with to help a young family.

 

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Before I got everyone all excited, I thought I better check in with Susan at Abigayle Ministries.  There’s no sense collecting multiple of the same item.  I wanted to get a feel for what had been done and what was outstanding on the list of items.  This is where God steps in.

Insert Miracle

This is the email I got back from Susan.  Praise God.

———-  Begin Forwarded message ———
From: Susan Meyer
Date: Thu, Jun 21, 2018 at 5:45 PM
Subject: RE: Katlyn and Giovanni
To: Brian O’Curran
Cc: Russell Morgan, Joe Suminski, Gary Kopp, Tom Weisner

Hello Brian!

How awesome that you would reach out to help Katlyn and Gio! I must share with you are GOD SIZED miracle…Humble Design.. an organization called and asked if we had a client who was preparing to leave. We told them about Katlyln and they offered to come in a design her home according to her tastes, colors, themes etc in furniture, drapes etc…  They will go to their warehouse of gently used items and create a home environment with everything needed for the house…furniture, drapes, art, cooking dishes, plates, cups, silverware, towels..EVERYTHING! They will do this in 3 days and have a big reveal on the 3rd day! All for free…it is absolutely an incredible miracle…she will walk into a home completely decorated and ready to live in..everything but food on the shelves and closets.

On top of that, they are going to film this experience and it will be on TV on the CW network. It is an incredible God moment in every way. Katlyn has no family.. just one friend who made the house possible …and us…no one else and God is doing this amazing thing for her showing her she is HIS! So love our God. Thank you so much for your desire to help…but God just stepped in and said He is taking care of it.

God bless you…you are amazing men of God and we are so blessed by your tenders hearts towards our moms and babies! Thank you for reaching out!

Blessings,
Susan

———- End Forwarded message ———

People say, “where is God?”  He’s working every day through good people like Susan at Abigayle Ministries and the awesome folks at Humble Design in Detroit.

For more information on the good works these organizations provide to our community, please click on the images below.

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download

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Brothers, Father Thumma is scheduled to in Romeo again over the first weekend in July.  This will be his second time visiting our parish.  Father Thumma established and runs the Ave Maria Home in Thallacheruvn, India. He feeds the elderly of this village and every dollar goes directly to buying food.  He also runs a school.

This is how he explained it to me via Facebook Messenger:

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There’s a very nice video to shows the facility and the faces of the people Father supports with his ministry.  You can watch it here:

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What did you think of the soundtrack?  I thought it was fantastic.  Then again, I’m a big George Harrison fan. He was a master of blending Indian influences into his music.

Some more images I “borrowed” from his Facebook account.

You might be asking yourself, “where is Thallacheruvn?”  Fair question, I asked the very same thing.  So, a little Googling (if that’s even a word) brings us here:

(click on the images and you can navigate around)

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You can follow the Good Father on Facebook by going here:

st clement

But wait, there’s more.  In addition to being a Priest, Fr Thumma is also a gifted musician.

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What do we do with the money we collect?  Many worthy things.  This is another example of the causes we support.  Thank you for support the Knights so we can support others.  vets returning

Note to self: We need to get Gary an oversized, clown checkbook, those checks look much better in pictures.

——- forward email ——-

Worthy Officers:

I had the privilege of presenting a check to Sandy Bower, founder of Vet’s Returning Home. The check was funded by the five Councils of District # 24: St. Paul of Tarsus, St. John Vianney, SS John & Paul, St. Isidore, and St. Clement.

Proud to be a Veteran and a Knight.

Vivat Jesus,

Gary E. Kopp
District Deputy – District #24
PGK – # 11772

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Another epic country breakfast is in the record books.  Thank you to everyone that came by to help or to eat.  We had lots of happy dad’s getting a free breakfast.   Thanks for Steve Betka – as usual – for leading the effort.  It was great all around.

Meanwhile, Deacon Kurt gathered a few new souls for the Lord via baptism.  He really does a wonderful job.  We were lucky enough to have him baptise my last grandson.

Welcoming new souls to the Lord
Norm! 🙂
Pucker up!
Our leader!
Best helper under 25

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Good morning.  Have you taken advantage of the subscription to Formed.org that St Clement has provided for you?  Well, you REALLY should.  I finished this program on the historical and New Testament origins of the Eucharist last night.  It was fascinating.  I went into the program thinking I had a pretty good handle on the topic.  Well, Dr Pitre showed me otherwise.  Even if you think you’ve got it all covered, I bet you’ll find this 10 part program enlightening.

The description of the series:

“”The Lamb of God,” “The Bread of Life,” “The Body and the Blood of Christ”… these are phrases we know from the Mass. But do we understand what they mean in the greater and deeper context of Scripture and Church teaching? Acclaimed author and teacher Dr. Brant Pitre rigorously digs down to the biblical roots of the Eucharist, through its foreshadowing in the miraculous events of the Old Testament, the Gospels, and Apostolic teaching. We’ll discover firsthand how Christ’s Body and Blood are an integral and wondrous part of God’s plan for our salvation.”

Don’t know how to log into formed.org?  Contact me and I can help you.  Or, have a look in the bulletin.

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It is my sad duty to report to you that John Mignone has been called home.  His family has asked us to pray a final Rosary with them this Tuesday evening (tomorrow) June 12th at 7:00 pm.  John and Jackie were at 11 am Mass every Sunday.  Jackie is frequently a eucharistic minister.  They have a long history with the parish.

Please make an effort to attend

Location

Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home
11280 32 Mile Road
Romeo, MI 48065
Phone: (586) 752-2000

Date and Time

Tuesday, June 12th at 7 PM
Calendar Invite – HERE  <– download to your calendar or phone

Vivat Jesus
Jim Burns

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On behalf of all the members and officers of Council 7018 at St Clement in Romeo, we thrilled to offer our congratulations and prayers to Brother Charlie McCuen.  Charlie, you’ve been a long-time friend and supporter.  You’ll do great things and accomplish many worthy goals.    Let’s hear it for our new Michigan State Knights of Columbus Warden Elect – Charlie McCuen.

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Brothers, as you may know, Ed has been struggling for a couple months.  Ed was called home last night.  He left surrounded by a loving family.  Ed’s been a fixture with our council for quite some time.  He showed up for everything.  He was always willing to help.  Even in his 90’s he was always at the head of the line to help others.  Saying he’ll be missed is a major understatement.  We Knights have been asked to pray a final Rosary with our Brother Ed on Thursday night.  Please make an extra effort to show up for this one.  He certainly made the effort for us.

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Location

Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home
11280 32 Mile Road
Romeo, MI 48065
Phone: (586) 752-2000

Date and Time

Thursday, May 31 st at 7 PM

Vivat Jesus

Jim Burns

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The Knights are having our semi-annual Membership Drive this weekend.  Father Steve has allowed us a few minutes at the end of the Masses to talk about our organization.   It’s interesting to hear what the Brother’s speaking at the pulpit some up with.  Each has their own take on their personal “why.”  Why did you join the Knights?  What I’ve found is, why you join and why you participate are two very different things.

I joined because Tony Nardozzi asked me to join every week for several years.   God love Tony, he filled our Council with many brothers.  I joined and promptly did nothing.  It’s a common phenomenon.  I wasn’t assigned a to-do.  But, I  poked around for a long time like that.  Then one day, everything changed.

I had become friends with Steve Betka years earlier when he and I were teaching religious ed.  He sent out an email looking for someone to take over the spot of financial secretary.  Of course, my first response was, “LOL, ahhhhh, no!”  But I kept thinking about it.   I called Steve and we talked it over.   I prayed about it.  I finally said, “yes.”

It has been an unexpected journey.  I didn’t expect to make the friends I have made along the way.   I didn’t expect to have the feeling of contributing to something bigger than myself.  I didn’t expect to get the opportunity to help so many people.

Who knows, maybe you’ll have a similar experience and we can go on the adventure with us.   Want to know more?  Watch the video below.

Then go HERE for more info.

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Rosary Request

It is my sad duty to report to you that George DeBruyn has been called home.  His family has asked us to pray a final Rosary with them on Sunday evening, May 20th at 7:00 pm.  Groege and this family have been longtime friends and supporters of the council.   Please make an effort to attend.

Download a calendar invitation HERE.

Location
Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home
11280 32 Mile Road
Romeo, MI 48065
Phone: (586) 752-2000

Date and Time
Sunday, May 20th at 7 PM

Vivat Jesus
Jim Burns

Obit – HERE

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Another one in the history books.  Despite Steve Betka not being there to lead us, we did alright.  Greg stepped up and organized this motley crew into a world-class breakfast delivery system.   We kinda rocked it.

Thanks to all the guys that showed up on Saturday morning to get all the prep done.

Thanks to all the moms we got to share the day with.  You make it all worthwhile.

Dennis and Family
Steve “Do NOT Take my picture!
Mark and this favorite ladies
RON!!!
Marcel selling Jean swamp land in Upsatate New York
Left, Pancake Girl and Right, The Pusher of Cheesy Potatoes.
Jim and Joe, this is a FULL smile!
Karrie!
Tom and Alan
Angie, do these two belong to you?
Earl – VOUGE
Mike and Ron
OK, I’ll have whatever Marcel is having!
Yikes!

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Today marks the National Day of Prayer for Life which is outlined below. During these challenging times for many, prayer is one thing that should remain consistent throughout our daily activities.
Whether it be at Mass, at work, or in the comfort of your home, please take time to pray for a change in our Culture in our efforts in Protecting the Sanctity of Human Life.
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Knights, Sisters of Life Urge Prayer for Life

At a Mass on May 3, 2010, commemorating the 10th anniversary of the passing of His Eminence John Cardinal O’Connor, Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York initiated a National Prayer Campaign for Life, which is being co-sponsored by the Sisters of Life and the Knights of Columbus.

Knights, Catholics and all people of good will are invited to join in raising up a great prayer for life across the nation through the daily recitation of this prayer:

Eternal Father, Source of Life,

strengthen us with your Holy Spirit
to receive the abundance of life you have promised.

Open our hearts to see and desire
the beauty of your plan for life and love.

Make our love generous and self-giving so that we may be blessed with joy.

Grant us great trust in your mercy.

Forgive us for not receiving your gift of life
and heal us from the effects of the culture of death.

Instil in us and all people reverence for every human life.

Inspire and protect our efforts on behalf of those most vulnerable
especially the unborn, the sick and the elderly.

We ask this in the Name of Jesus,
who by His Cross makes all things new. Amen.

Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us.

 

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Cleanliness is next to Godliness, or so the saying goes.  In the spirit of spring cleaning, Father Steve arranged to have all the carpets cleaned and floors steamed.  An absolutely great idea.  I suppose it needs to be done.   Anyone wanna venture a guess how many chairs had to be moved?  Wait, before you answer, let’s just run down where the chairs are:

  • The Day Chapel
  • The Altar
  • The Overflow and Cry Rooms
  • The Sanctuary
  • All the changing rooms
  • The Knights room
  • The Narthax
  • The Social Hall and … AND…
  • The Religious Education Area

Ok, now guess!

The reality is, only God himself knows.  The only data point we have for sure is it took 8 to 10 people seven hours over three days to move it all back and forth.  Here’s the crew.

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The Cleaning Crew

Pictured are Camron and JessicaPytleski, Paul and Kathy Weirbicki, Dan O’Brien, Susan and Joe Suminski, Pat and Bernie Bianchi and Henry Hainer.  Not sure why Henry’s not smiling.  I think his back is starting to hurt.  Or, maybe someone promised him pizza?!? Not sure.

Not pictured is Phil Garnecki.

It was a big job.  Thanks to everyone that pitched in.

Love this guy.  Bernie’s the BEST!

BernieWorld (3)

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Four years ago today, Pope John Paul II was canonized and named a saint. Join us in celebrating this great saint who inspired so many people as priest, bishop, cardinal and pope. Even now, St. John Paul II continues to bring people closer to Christ through his legacy. In honor of him, share this prayer for St. John Paul II’s intercession today:

O Blessed Trinity, we thank you for having graced the Church with
Saint John Paul II and for allowing the tenderness of your fatherly care,
the glory of the Cross of Christ and the splendor of the Spirit of love to shine through him.
Trusting fully in your infinite mercy and in the maternal intercession of Mary,
he has given us a living image of Jesus the Good Shepherd.
He has shown us that holiness is the necessary measure of ordinary
Christian life and is the way of achieving eternal communion with you.
Grant us, by his intercession, and according to your will,
the graces we implore, through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

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“In fidelity to the vision of Father McGivney, may you continue to seek new
ways of being a leaven of the Gospel in the world and a spiritual force
for the renewal of the Church in holiness, unity and truth.”
Pope John Paul II
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When you join the Knights of Columbus, you join a brotherhood of Catholic men more than 1.9 million strong. With a rich 135-year history, the Knights of Columbus has a long tradition of helping men to lead with faith, protect our families, serve others, and defend our values in a busy and changing world.

In 1882, a young parish priest, Father Michael J. McGivney, saw that the families of his parish were suffering both financial and spiritual poverty. His compassion, especially for the widows and orphans left behind after breadwinners were killed working in factories, compelled him to band together the men of his parish and form the Knights of Columbus. LEARN MORE

Through the Knights of Columbus, Father McGivney gave Catholic laymen a new opportunity – the chance to grow in holiness while serving their parishes and communities and protecting their families. In 2008, the Holy See declared Father McGivney as a “Venerable Servant of God”, the first step on the path to sainthood.

Since 1882, Knights of Columbus has grown to more than 15,000 local councils in the United States, Canada, and across the world.  Over the past decade, Knights have raised and donated nearly $1.4 billion to charity and given almost 653 million hours in humanitarian service. Each Knight continues Venerable Father McGivney’s legacy and answers the call to be a man who leads with their faith and makes a difference in his community.

If you’re interested in joining the Knights, CLICK HERE or the button below.

May our Catholic faith continue to make you stronger in all you do.

 

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On March 1st, Sister Val let us know about a family struggling after their main breadwinner was sent to Mexico.  She reached out to the community for assistance.  The Knights contributed to a happy outcome in this situation.  It’s situations like this that make the effort worth it.  We are honored to help and thrilled this family is reunited.

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