12.03.17 & 12.10.17

Campus Ministry Bulletin
vol 26 no 14

December 3, 2017 - First Sunday of Advent
+ Isaiah 63: 16-17, 19; 64: 2-7 + 1 Corinthians 1:3-9 + Mark 13:33-37 +
Masses this Sunday at 10:30 am and 6:30 pm

December 10, 2017 - Second Sunday of Advent
+ Isaiah 40: 1-5, 9-11 + 2 Peter 3:8-14 + Mark 1:1-8 +
Masses this Sunday at 10:30 am and 6:30 pm

Mass Intentions:

Sunday	12.03	10:30 am 6:30 pm	For the SAU Community
Monday	12.04	Noon	+ Dr. Thomas Washburn, '52
Tuesday	12.05	4:30 pm	+ Fr. Brian Shepley, '88
Wednesday	12.06	9:15 pm	For Student Intentions
Thursday	12.07	4:30 pm	+ Donald Vaile, '47
Friday	12.08	Noon	+ Howard Mower, '65
Sunday	12.10	10:30 am 6:30 pm	For the SAU Community
Monday	12.11	Noon	+ Fr. Bill Dawson, '50
Tuesday	12.12	9:00 pm	+ Fr. Joe DeFrancisco

This Week's Activities Include:
Sunday (12/03): Feast of St. Ambrose Reception 11:30 am (Gathering Space); RCIA 7:30 pm (Lower Chapel)
Monday (12/04): C.S. Lewis Prayer Group 7 pm (Gathering Space)
Tuesday: Lectio Prayer 8 pm (Gathering Space); Peer Campus Ministers Meeting 8:30 pm (Lower Chapel); Bridge Bible Fellowship 9 pm (Chapel)
Wednesday: Adoration 8:15 pm (Chapel); 9:15 pm Mass & More + Pencil Blessing 9:15 pm (Chapel)
Thursday: Music Ministry 7 pm (Chapel); Discernment Discussion 8 pm (Gathering Space)
Sunday (12/10): RCIA 7:30 pm (Lower Chapel)
Monday (12/11): Campus Ministry Appreciation Dinner 5 pm (Gathering Space)

Sacrament of Reconciliation Offered Before Every Daily Mass
Monday/Friday - 11:15 am
Tuesday/Thursday - 3:45 pm
Wednesday - 8:30 pm


Campus Ministry Offices - Lower Chapel
333-6132 or ministry@sau.edu  
Twitter: @SAUCampusMin
Fr. Thom Hennen, Chaplain
Chris Clow, Director of Music and Liturgy
Kaitlin Depuydt, Director of Service and Social Justice
Tammy Norcross-Reitzler, Director of Faith Formation
Paul Burd, Grad Assistant

Prayer Ministry - send intentions to BeesKnees@sau.edu.

Sign Up for Campus Ministry Events any time during the year!  Go to: www.tinyurl.com/campusmin2017.


Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end
This is the last line of the song “Closing Time” by the band Semisonic, which came out in the spring of 1998.  Despite what many think, it is not a song about “last call” at a bar.  Rather, it was written by Dan Wilson with his wife in mind, who was pregnant at the time with their first child, so it is really a song about new birth.  The last line and the general theme of the song seem particularly fitting as we prepare to close out this calendar year and begin a new one.  We have also nearly “turned the corner” on this academic year, as we prepare to conclude this semester and look forward to the next.  It is also a season of new beginnings for our students who will graduate this month, as they finish out their time at St. Ambrose and begin new endeavors.  We have also just concluded the previous liturgical year and we start a new liturgical year with this first Sunday of Advent.  Contrary to popular belief, the word “advent” does not mean “waiting.”  It means “arrival.” And so, while we typically say in this season that we “await the birth of Christ” at Christmas, He is already here!  He came two-thousand years ago.  He comes to us now in word, sacrament, and in the poor.  He will come again in glory when all things will be fulfilled.  The fact is, we live in the time of the “already, but not yet.”  We look to the coming of Christ, even as we believe He is with us now.  We pray “thy kingdom come,” even as we believe that the kingdom of God is already within us and in our midst.  As we stand at the crossroads this year, it seems truer than ever that “every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”  May the peace of Christ be with you and all your loved ones in this joyful season. ---Fr. Thom 

•Mass Commemorating the Feast of St. Ambrose and the Presentation of the McMullen Awards
The 10:30am mass on Sunday, December 3 - the First Sunday of Advent - will honor our patron saint, St. Ambrose.  The Most Rev. Thomas Zinkula, Bishop of Davenport, will be the presider and homilist, and the music will be led by a combined choir of SAU Chamber Singers and Music Ministry.  The McMullen Awards will also be presented to Rev. Msgr. Drake Shafer, ‘69, and Daniel Broderick ‘82 and Thomas Mnich.  A reception will follow in the Gathering Space.

•Mass Schedule During Winter Break
Noon mass on Monday, December 11, is the last regular daily mass of the semester.  The daily mass schedule begins again on Wednesday, January 17 with 9:15pm Mass and More.  Mass for the Third Sunday of Advent will be celebrated on Saturday, December 16 at 5:00pm.  There are no Sunday masses December 17 - January 7.  There is a 10:30am mass on Sunday, January 14, and the 10:30am/6:30pm Sunday schedule returns January 21.  A Christmas Eve mass will be celebrated on Sunday, December 24 at 5:00pm for Ambrosians in the area.

•Service on Saturday
Last Service on Saturday for the semester this Saturday, December 2!  We will help at a Holiday Gift Swap at the Sisters of Humility.  They encourage people to bring new or gently used items to regift, set up a store, and allow people to swap gifts as a way to reduce, reuse, and recycle.  Sale is 2-4pm, help is needed 1:30-3pm and/or 3:30-5pm.  Let Kaitlin know if you can help at ministry@sau.edu.

•Grad Student Mass and Circle Tap!
Grad students!  Join us for one more time for Mass and community this semester.  Come to the 4:30pm mass on Tuesday, December 5, then follow us over to Circle Tap for ribs, drinks, and discussion.  We’ll see you there!

•Advent Adoration
Join us for a time of Adoration before the last Mass and More on Wednesday, December 6, beginning at 8:15pm in the Chapel.  In the midst of a busy week, take some time out for some calm and join in a bit of Scripture, song, and silence before the Blessed Sacrament.  Stick around for Mass and More right after!

•Blessing of Pencils (And the Students who Use Them)
We will offer a special blessing of students at 9:15 pm Mass Wednesday, December 6th by blessing their pencils.  It’s a way to ask God to help you be more centered as you study for final exams. Bring your own pencil or obtain one available from campus ministry.

•Bring Back Your Gifts to the Giving Tree
Please be sure to bring back your gift of pajamas, wrapped and with your name tag, to the Gathering Space by Wednesday, December 6.  The gifts will be delivered to the kids at Project Renewal during Finals Week.  Thank you for your generosity!

•Discernment Group
Our Discernment Group is perfect for students who are thinking about life after SAU and what comes next.  Join us Thursday, December 7 at 8pm in the Gathering Space.  Chris Clow from Campus Ministry will be sharing his experiences in discernment with us.

•Immaculate Conception Holy Day on Friday
Friday, December 8, is the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a holy day of obligation.  Masses will be Thursday, December 7 at 4:30pm, and Friday, December 8 at 12 noon.

•Winter Break Service Trip
Sign up for our Winter Break service trip to East St. Louis by Friday, December 1!  Service trip is January 10-13, and we will stay at the Hubbard House, serving at an afterschool program, a shelter for women and children who are victims of domestic violence, a K-8 Catholic school, and a soup kitchen!  You can also sign up for Spring Break service trips (March 10-16th) to Chicago, Grafton IL, and Holly Springs MS.  More information is available in the Chapel Gathering Space - let Kaitlin know at ministry@sau.edu if you have questions.

•Charlie Brown Christmas Celebration
Join the Peer Campus Ministers for a Late Night Charlie Brown Christmas Party at 9 pm in the Beehive, Friday, December 8th.   Hot chocolate, Snoopy chow and Charlie “Brownies” will be served! Wear an ugly Christmas sweater or Charlie Brown apparel and come join the fun.

•Fill the Bowl with the River Bend FoodBank
Help out the River Bend Food Bank at Fill the Bowl: sharing a meal with others in the community, participating in a volunteer event, and learning about how hunger affects over 119,000 in our QC community.  Fill the Bowl is Sunday, December 10 from 11am-3pm.  Volunteers are also needed to serve food in 10:30am-1pm and 1-3:30pm shifts.  Contact Kaitlin at ministry@sau.edu if you’d like to volunteer, or you can go to their website.

•Fill the Stockings with Socks
The peer campus ministers are hosting a sock drive for the Clothing Center at Minnie’s Maison on LeClaire Street.  This organization provides clothes (including socks!) and household items free of charge to people who need them.  Fill the giant red stockings in the Beehive with socks!  We’ll collect socks until Tuesday, Dec. 12th.

•Feeding the Future Bees
A student themed-house is working on a project this coming week: “Feeding the Future Bees.”  Donations of healthy snacks like fruit snacks, granola bars, and crackers are being collected to donate to local kids in snack bags.  The students are collecting the items until Thursday December 7th.  For questions or to donate items, please contact Alex Horton at HortonAlexandriaP@sau.edu.

•Student Candlelight Mass
Mark your calendars for the Student Candlelight Mass: Tuesday, December 12 at 9:00pm.  In the Chapel, filled with light from candles held by students, we celebrate the joy and the hope Christ’s birth has brought to our world.  Students are invited to sing with Music Ministry for the mass.  Email ministry@sau.edu to learn more.

•Faculty/Staff Christmas Mass
SAU faculty and staff are invited to help lead music for the Mass preceding the Christmas party on Saturday, December 16.  Rehearsal is at 4pm, Mass is at 5pm.  Contact Chris Clow at ministry@sau.edu to help out.

•BelongChicago.org
Graduating in December and moving to the Chicago area? Check out BelongChicago.org.  Connect with the young adult Catholic community in the Archdiocese of Chicago, find a parish home, meet new friends, continue to serve others and learn about your faith.  Plus, check back weekly for new opportunities and updates on offerings in the area.

•Congratulations Graduates!
Congratulations to all who will graduate from St. Ambrose on Saturday, December 16th.  May God grant blessings on all your endeavors and in the best of our SAU tradition, may you be a blessing for the world!

11.26.17

Campus Ministry Bulletin
vol 26 no 13

November 26, 2017 - Solemnity of Christ the King
+ Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-17 + 1 Corinthians 15:20-26, 28 + Matthew 25:31-46 +
Mass this Sunday at 6:30pm ONLY

Mass Intentions:

Sunday	11.26	6:30 pm	For the SAU Community
Monday	11.27	Noon	+ Robert Merchie, '51
Tuesday	11.28	4:30 pm	+ Julie Daxon, '89
Wednesday	11.29	9:15 pm	For Student Intentions
Thursday	11.30	4:30 pm	+ Paul Collins, '62
Friday	12.01	Noon	+ James Glackin, '85

This Week's Activities Include:
Sunday: RCIA 7:30 pm (Lower Chapel)
Monday: C.S. Lewis Prayer Group 7 pm (Gathering Space); Feast of Ambrose Music Rehearsal 7 pm (Chapel); Stump the Priest 8 pm (Gathering Space)
Tuesday: Communal Penance 7 pm (Chapel); Bridge Bible Fellowship 9 pm (Chapel)
Wednesday: Ambrosians for Peace and Justice 8 pm (Lower Chapel); 9:15 pm Mass & More (Grotto)
Thursday: Chamber Singers Rehearsal 6:30 pm (Chapel)
Friday: Lessons and Carols 7 pm (Chapel)

Sacrament of Reconciliation Offered Before Every Daily Mass
Monday/Friday - 11:15 am
Tuesday/Thursday - 3:45 pm
Wednesday - 8:30 pm


Campus Ministry Offices - Lower Chapel
333-6132 or ministry@sau.edu  
Twitter: @SAUCampusMin
Fr. Thom Hennen, Chaplain
Chris Clow, Director of Music and Liturgy
Kaitlin Depuydt, Director of Service and Social Justice
Tammy Norcross-Reitzler, Director of Faith Formation
Paul Burd, Grad Assistant

Prayer Ministry - send intentions to BeesKnees@sau.edu.

Sign Up for Campus Ministry Events any time during the year!  Go to: www.tinyurl.com/campusmin2017.


Allowing Christ to reign in our hearts and in our lives
It hardly seems possible, but this coming Sunday is already the last Sunday in Ordinary Time, designated as the “Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe” (ever since Pope Pius XI named it so in 1925, a relatively recent addition to the universal calendar).  It is also, therefore, the patronal feast of our very own Christ the King Chapel.  As both the calendar year and the liturgical year draw to a close, it is a good time for us to look back and reflect on who or what has sat in the throne of our hearts in this past year.  Have we ceded that place, which properly belongs to Christ, to worldly concerns, to material possessions, to creature comforts, to work, to negative attitudes, to unhealthy habits, etc.?  If so, now is a good time to once again allow Christ to reign in our hearts and in our lives.  Next Sunday is already the first Sunday of Advent, which, given the academic calendar, is always a very short season here at the University.  Nonetheless, I urge you to be vigilant in this season of joyful expectation.  Even as the Christmas parties start up and the holiday commercials make it seem like Christmas is already here, do be not be robbed of your Advent.  Do not be subtly cheated out of this time of prayerful preparation for the many comings of Christ: his first coming among us two-thousand years ago, his coming in glory at the end of time, and his coming daily into our lives.  Rather, let Advent be Advent, to the best of your ability, and I promise that Christmas will be all the more meaningful and joyful for it.  Because the Feast of St. Ambrose (December 7) typically falls midweek and always in Advent, we will observe our patronal feast with the wider community on the first Sunday of Advent, December 3.  Please join us for this beautiful celebration at the 10:30 Mass.  The McMullen Awards will also be presented at this Mass.  These awards (named for our first bishop and founder of St. Ambrose University) honor those who have made a significant contribution to the life and mission of the University through their hard work, generosity, and enthusiastic spirit.  Between Christ the King Sunday, the first Sunday of Advent and the Feast of St. Ambrose, there is certainly plenty to celebrate around here.  As always, let us continue to keep each other in prayer as we enter into the final few weeks of this first semester.  ---Fr. Thom



•Join Us for 6:30pm Mass on Sunday
As you come back to campus from Thanksgiving break, join us for mass on Sunday, November 26 at 6:30pm in the Chapel.  There is no 10:30 am mass this Sunday.  The daily mass schedule resumes with 12 noon mass on Monday, November 27.

•Advent Mass Commemorating the Feast of St. Ambrose and the Presentation of the McMullen Awards
Join us next Sunday, December 3 at 10:30am as we honor our patron saint, St. Ambrose, at mass for the First Sunday of Advent.  The Most Rev. Thomas Zinkula, Bishop of Davenport and Chair of the Board of Trustees, will be the presider and homilist for this special liturgy.  Music for the mass will be led by a combined choir of SAU Chamber Singers and Music Ministry.  The mass also features the presentation of the McMullen Awards to this year’s recipients: Rev. Msgr. Drake Shafer, ‘69, and Daniel Broderick ‘82 and Thomas Mnich.  A reception will follow in the Gathering Space.

•Advent Season Events 
Advent begins next Sunday, December 3.  Advent is a season of preparation for Christmas and a reminder to be constantly vigilant “waiting in joyful hope” for the Lord’s coming.  Here are some ways you can celebrate Advent right here at SAU:
→Pick up a copy of “Expectantly Waiting in Wonder” by Timothy McCormick and Rakhi McCormick.  Pray the excerpts from the daily Mass readings, reflections, illustrations, and suggestions for action, as you expectantly wait for God to reveal his wonders in your life.  The booklets will be available in the Chapel Gathering Space, at the Rogalski Center Post Office, and in the Health Science Building.
→Participate in Daily Mass at Christ the King Chapel. Monday and Fridays at 12:00 pm. Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4:30pm, and Wednesdays at 9:15pm.
→Enjoy a special Lessons and Carols service Friday, December 1 at 7:00pm in the Chapel.  The evening consists of scriptures for the season and music featuring the University Chorale and Chamber Singers.
→Commemorate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a holy day of obligation,  by celebrating the vigil mass with us at 4:30pm on Thursday, December 7, or mass on the holy day at 12 noon on Friday, December 8.
→Pray with us at Eucharistic Adoration on Wednesday, December 6 in the Chapel before the final Mass and More of the semester.  Adoration will begin at 8:30pm.  Take a break in the middle of a stressful week for a time of quiet prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.
→Celebrate the Student Candlelight Mass preceding Midnight Breakfast on Tuesday December 12 at 9:00pm.  In the chapel, filled with light from candles held by students, we celebrate the mystery, the joy, and the hope Christ’s birth has brought to our world.  All are welcome.

•Music Rehearsal for Feast Mass
The final music rehearsal for the Feast of St. Ambrose Mass is Monday, November 27 at 6pm in the Chapel.  All SAU students, faculty, and staff are invited to help lead music.  Email ministry@sau.edu to volunteer!

•Stump the Priest
Students!  Mark your calendars for the Monday night after Thanksgiving Break, November 28 at 8pm in the Gathering Space.  We have a Stump the Priest night with our new chaplain, Fr. Thom Hennen.  Come bring your toughest questions about the Church and Catholic theology as we try to Stump the Priest!

•Communal Reconciliation Service
Join us on Tuesday, November 28 at 7pm in the Chapel for a Communal Reconciliation service.  A simple prayer service is followed by time for individual confession.  A great practice as we prepare for Advent and Christmas!

•Fill the Stockings with Socks
The peer campus ministers are hosting a sock drive for the Clothing Center at Minnie’s Maison on LeClaire Street.  The nonprofit organization provides clothes and household items free of charge to people who need them.  Socks are a constant need.  Please help us fill the giant red stockings (divided into Freshman/Sophomores, Juniors/Seniors, and Faculty/Staff) in the Beehive with socks!  Who can fill their stocking first?  We’ll collect socks until Tuesday, Dec. 12th.

•Project Renewal Giving Tree
If you took a tag from the tree in order to buy a gift of pajamas for a child from Project Renewal, please return the tag with your wrapped gift to the Gathering Space by Wednesday, December 6.  The gifts will be delivered to Project Renewal during Finals Week.  Thank you for your generosity!

•Winter Break Service Trip
Sign up for our Winter Break service trip to East St. Louis by Friday, December 1!  Service trip is January 10-13, and we will stay at the Hubbard House, serving at an afterschool program, a shelter for women and children who are victims of domestic violence, a K-8 Catholic school, and a soup kitchen!  You can also sign up for Spring Break service trips (March 10-16th) to Chicago, Grafton IL, and Holly Springs MS.  More information is available in the Chapel Gathering Space - let Kaitlin know at ministry@sau.edu if you have questions.

11.12.17 & 11.19.17

Campus Ministry Bulletin
vol 26 no 12

November 12, 2017 - Thirty-Second Sunday of Ordinary Time
+ Wisdom 6:12-16 + 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 + Matthew 25:1-13 +
Masses this Sunday at 10:30 am and 6:30pm

November 19, 2017 - Thirty-Third Sunday of Ordinary Time
+ Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31 + 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6 + Matthew 25:14-30 +
No Masses This Sunday

Mass Intentions:

Sunday	11.12	10:30 am 6:30 pm	For the SAU Community
Monday	11.13	Noon	For All Veterans
Tuesday	11.14	4:30 pm	For an End to Hunger
Wednesday	11.15	9:15 pm	For Student Intentions
Thursday	11.16	4:30 pm	For Peace
Friday	11.17	Noon	In Thanksgiving for our Families

This Week's Activities Include:
Sunday: RCIA 7:30 pm (Lower Chapel)
Monday: Nurses Christian Fellowship 3 pm (Gathering Space); C.S. Lewis Prayer Group 7 pm (Gathering Space); Feast of Ambrose Music Rehearsal 7 pm (Chapel)
Tuesday: Continuing Faith 8 pm (Gathering Space); Bridge Bible Fellowship 9 pm (Chapel)
Wednesday: Ambrosians for Peace and Justice 8 pm (Lower Chapel); 9:15 pm Mass & More (Chapel)

Sacrament of Reconciliation Offered Before Every Daily Mass
Monday/Friday - 11:15 am
Tuesday/Thursday - 3:45 pm
Wednesday - 8:30 pm


Campus Ministry Offices - Lower Chapel
333-6132 or ministry@sau.edu  
Twitter: @SAUCampusMin
Fr. Thom Hennen, Chaplain
Chris Clow, Director of Music and Liturgy
Kaitlin Depuydt, Director of Service and Social Justice
Tammy Norcross-Reitzler, Director of Faith Formation
Paul Burd, Grad Assistant

Prayer Ministry - send intentions to BeesKnees@sau.edu.

Sign Up for Campus Ministry Events any time during the year!  Go to: www.tinyurl.com/campusmin2017.


Transferable and Non-Transferable Faith
There’s something that has always bothered me in “the parable of the wise virgins” that we will hear this Sunday in the Gospel.  As a refresher, this is the parable that Jesus tells about the ten virgins awaiting the arrival of the bridegroom.  The five wise virgins bring plenty of oil for their lamps to get through the long night of waiting, while the five foolish virgins run out and have to ask to borrow some so that their lamps don’t go out before the bridegroom arrives.  It is the response of the five wise virgins that is so troubling: “No, for there may not be enough for us and you.”  Why wouldn’t they just share?  How rude!  What’s the message that Jesus is trying to get across here?  We need to remember that this is just a parable, not a “real life” situation.  And so, Jesus is not offering a lesson on manners, or the importance of sharing.  Rather, he’s using this parable to teach us something about the “kingdom of heaven,” about faith.  Perhaps, the oil represents faith itself, which in one way is “transferable.”  I can tell you what I believe:  the various statements of the Creed and the other teachings of the Church.  In theology this is called the fides quae, the content or the “what” of our belief.  I can even give you a reasoned explanation for my faith (what we call “apologetics”) or share my personal testimony of how I have encountered God in my life.  But I cannot make you believe or simply transfer my personal faith to you. This pertains to what we call the fides qua, or the act of believing, which is truly “non-transferable.”  In this sense, the “wise virgins” couldn’t simply give some of their “oil” (faith) to those who did not have enough.  It just doesn’t work that way.  This parable reminds us that faith (fides qua) is truly a gift from God.  Why God doesn’t simply give this gift to all people is a good question.  Then again, perhaps it is isn’t that God has failed to offer this gift, but that we have failed to give reason for our hope (cf. 1 Peter 3:15).  Or it could be that despite our efforts and the efforts of so many who have gone before us, there will always be some who stubbornly refuse this gift.  Whatever the reason, we are called as Christians to sustain our own faith, to share our faith (to the degree we can) with others by word and example, and then leave the rest to God.   ---Fr. Thom
         
•Thanksgiving Break Schedule
Due to Thanksgiving break, there will be no Sunday or daily masses celebrated from Sunday, November 19 through Saturday, November 25.  There is also no 10:30am mass on Sunday, November 26.  Regular mass schedule will resume with 6:30pm mass on Sunday, November 26.  Thanksgiving blessings to all!

•Service on Saturday
Our service project this weekend will be with the Butterworth Center in Moline, a historic mansion supporting non-profit groups across the Quad Cities.  We will be helping with outdoor fall clean-up projects on Saturday 11/11, leaving at 12:15pm and returning at 2:45.  Let us know if you can join us at ministry@sau.edu!

•Month of All Souls
In the Catholic Tradition the month of November is a time to pray for our deceased loved ones.  All month we keep a candle at the front of the altar with the names of the deceased loved ones of SAU students, faculty, and staff.  If you would like to add the names of your deceased loved ones, you can still fill out a card in the Gathering Space and place it before the altar.  We will remember them all in our prayers at every Mass.

•Clothes Out Hunger Sale
Ambrosians for Peace and Justice have been busy planning their annual Hunger Week, which will kick off on Monday November 13th with the Clothes Out Hunger clothing sale, from 10am-3pm in lower Cosgrove that day.   Any gently-used clothing donations can be dropped off in the conference room in the Lower Chapel until Sunday evening.  Sale is Monday, and every item is $1.  Proceeds benefit Cafe on Vine, remaining clothes will be donated to Sacred Heart Clothing Closet.  Save the dates to join us!

•Hunger Banquet
Also part of of the Hunger Week activities is a global Hunger Banquet, using materials from Oxfam to learn, experience, and reflect on global hunger.   Join us Tuesday, November 14th from 5-6:30pm, in the faculty/staff dining room of the cafeteria.  Participants should register with Kaitlin at ministry@sau.edu to reserve their spot.  Donations of canned food are encouraged to support local food services.  The Hunger Banquet is sponsored by Ambrosians for Peace & Justice, Triota (Women & Gender Studies), and Sodexo Food Services.

•Music for the Feast of St. Ambrose Mass
The first music rehearsal for the Feast of St. Ambrose Mass is this Monday, November 13 at 7pm in the Chapel.  All SAU students, faculty, and staff are invited to join with Music Ministry and help lead music for the Feast mass on Sunday, December 3 at 10:30am.  Next rehearsal is Monday, November 27 after break.  Contact Chris Clow at ministry@sau.edu to sign up.

•Continuing the Faith
Tuesday, November 14th at 8 pm in the chapel Gathering Space, Emily Rollins, a career counselor for the SAU Career Center will share personal stories and professional advice with interested students about her transition from college life to the “real world.”  She graduated from Loras University where she was active in campus ministry.  Students of all faiths are welcome.   For more information contact Bizzie Braun or Abby Hammer. 

•Project Renewal Giving Tree
Each year, SAU takes on a giving tree project before Christmas for the kids at Project Renewal.  Project Renewal is an after-school program in Davenport, about a mile south of campus.  Most of the kids come from low-income and/or single-parent families.  A giving tree with tags of gift ideas for each kid at Project Renewal will be in the Chapel Gathering Space starting this weekend.  Please consider taking a tag and buying a Christmas gift for one of these kids!  Gifts should be returned, wrapped, to the tree by Wednesday 12/6 so our student organizers can deliver them during finals week.

•Fill the Stockings with Socks
The peer campus ministers are hosting a sock drive for the Clothing Center at Minnie’s Maison on LeClaire Street.  The nonprofit organization provides clothes and household items free of charge to people who need them.  Socks are a constant need.  Please help us fill the giant red stockings in the Beehive with socks!  We’ll collect socks until Tuesday, Dec. 12th. 

•Stump the Priest
Students!  Mark your calendars for the Monday night after Thanksgiving Break, November 27 at 8pm in the Gathering Space.  We have a Stump the Priest night with our new chaplain, Fr. Thom Hennen.  Come bring your toughest questions about the Church and Catholic theology as we try to Stump the Priest!

•Communal Penance
Join us on Tuesday, November 28 at 7pm in the Chapel for a Communal Reconciliation service.  A simple prayer service is followed by time for individual confession.  A perfect practice before Advent!

•Post-Graduate Service Opportunities
Have you ever thought about a longer service experience?  Long-term volunteering programs (summer, 6-months, a year or longer) are great options to gain experience in a service placement in your area of study or something else you’d like to try!  On Wednesday November 15th, representatives of 4 different faith-based service programs will be visiting campus.  They will visit classrooms throughout the afternoon and also offer an informal opportunity to visit with them over dinner from 5-6:30 on Wednesday evening, November 15th in the side dining room of the cafeteria.  The Catholic Volunteer Network is a great resource for those looking for a faith-based program and start narrowing down options: https://catholicvolunteernetwork.org/

•Other Service Opportunities
For those looking to give back with their family or friends as the holiday season approaches, we have a couple other opportunities:  the Festival of Trees is looking for volunteers for various shifts between 11/16 and 11/26.  Volunteers are needed to help with the “reindeer games” activity area, tickets at admissions, and raffles.   Another need in the community is with Humility of Mary Housing - the transitional housing program needs help with cleaning efforts as new families are preparing to move into an apartment, out of the cold.  If you would be interested in either of these opportunities, let Kaitlin know at ministry@sau.edu.

•Announcing Service Trips!
Our Winter Break service trip is January 10-13th to East St. Louis to stay at the Hubbard House.  We will have opportunities to serve at after-school programs, a shelter for women and children who are victims of domestic violence, a K-8 Catholic school, and prepare meals in a soup kitchen!  Applications for the Winter Break trip are available now and due by December 1st.  Spring Break service trips (March 10-16th) will be heading to Chicago, Grafton IL, and Holly Springs MS.  More information is available in the Chapel Gathering Space - let Kaitlin know at ministry@sau.edu if you have questions.

•Introduction to Catholic Studies Course in Spring 2018
Come learn more about the history, key figures, and the cultural impact of the Catholicism.  In CATH-201-A, Introduction to Catholic Studies, we will look at Catholic history, the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, and the impact that Catholicism has made on the world.  Contact Chris Clow at ministry@sau.edu to learn more!

11.05.17

Campus Ministry Bulletin
vol 26 no 11

November 5, 2017 - Thirty-First Sunday of Ordinary Time
+ Malachi 1:14-2:2, 8-10 + 1 Thessalonians 2:7-9, 13 + Matthew 23:1-12 +
Masses this Sunday at 10:30 am and 6:30pm

Mass Intentions:

Sunday	11.05	10:30 am 6:30 pm	For the SAU Community
Monday	11.06	Noon	+ Donald Swanson, '82
Tuesday	11.07	4:30 pm	+ John Ryan, '62
Wednesday	11.08	9:15 pm	For Student Intentions
Thursday	11.09	4:30 pm	+ Les Schaefer, '49
Friday	11.10	Noon	+ Rasmo "Rocky" Casini, '67

This Week's Activities Include:
Sunday: RCIA 11:30 am (Lower Chapel)
Monday: C.S. Lewis Prayer Group 7 pm (Gathering Space)
Tuesday: Lectio Divina Prayer 8 pm (Gathering Space); Peer Campus Minister Meeting 8:30 pm (Lower Chapel); Bridge Bible Fellowship 9 pm (Chapel)
Wednesday: Ambrosians for Peace and Justice 8 pm (Lower Chapel); 9:15 pm Mass & More (Grotto)
Thursday: Music Ministry Rehearsal 7 pm (Chapel)

Sacrament of Reconciliation Offered Before Every Daily Mass
Monday/Friday - 11:15 am
Tuesday/Thursday - 3:45 pm
Wednesday - 8:30 pm


Campus Ministry Offices - Lower Chapel
333-6132 or ministry@sau.edu  
Twitter: @SAUCampusMin
Fr. Thom Hennen, Chaplain
Chris Clow, Director of Music and Liturgy
Kaitlin Depuydt, Director of Service and Social Justice
Tammy Norcross-Reitzler, Director of Faith Formation
Paul Burd, Grad Assistant

Prayer Ministry - send intentions to BeesKnees@sau.edu.

Sign Up for Campus Ministry Events any time during the year!  Go to: www.tinyurl.com/campusmin2017.


Family Circles
As we celebrate “Family Weekend” here on campus, our thoughts naturally go to our own particular families: mom and dad, grandma and grandpa, brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, nephews and nieces, etc.  This is all the more the case as we prepare for Thanksgiving, now just a few short weeks away.  I know my own family is making preparations - who’s going where, when everybody’s arriving, when they’re leaving, and what they’re bringing.  My cooking skills are such that I will probably be asked to bring napkins.  In all seriousness, it is a wonderful time for us to reflect on the blessing of family.  They’re far from perfect, but where would we be without them?  Of course, it’s not only with our immediate or blood relatives that we use this word “family.”  We have, in a sense, concentric circles of family.  And so, for example, here at St. Ambrose we frequently speak of our “Ambrose Family,” meaning the students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends of the University.  We are indeed like a family, each with our own distinct personalities, gifts, limitations, passions and goals.  And yet, we are drawn together and united under a common name: “Ambrosians.”  This concept of family extends further still as we consider both our local and global community, the wider human family.  This is something we should not lose sight of even as we are privileged to reunite with loved ones and to share what is typically an overabundance of good food.  We can think of the family of the Church as well, in heaven and on earth, those women and men of every nation, language, culture, time and place.  I will never forget a very powerful personal experience of this great “family” of the Church.  As a high school youth attending World Youth Day 1993 in Denver, Colorado I remember waking up the morning of the closing Mass with Pope John Paul II, after having slept out under the stars the night before to secure our spot on the gigantic open field.  I remember looking around in every direction and not being able to see where the people ended.  For the first time in my young Catholic life I realized just how big and diverse my family of faith was.  As we gather with those closest to us this weekend and in the weeks to come, let’s remember and pray for all our families. ---Fr. Thom


•Month of All Souls
In the Catholic Tradition the month of November is a time to pray for our deceased loved ones.  All month we keep a candle at the front of the altar with the names of the deceased loved ones of SAU students, faculty, and staff.  If you would like to add the names of your deceased loved ones, you can still fill out a card in the Gathering Space and place it before the altar.  We will remember them all in our prayers at every Mass.

•Daylight Savings Time Ends on Sunday
Don’t forget to set your clocks back on Saturday night!  We gain an hour this Sunday, so be sure to adjust your clocks, enjoy an extra hour of sleep, and join us for 10:30am or 6:30pm mass on Sunday!

•Labor Trafficking in America
What is labor trafficking and how does this issue impact us as workers and consumers?  Join us as we find out at a presentation by Attacking Trafficking and the Labor Center of the University of Iowa.  The interactive workshop is on Thursday, November 9th from 6:30-8pm at the UFCW Local 431 Union Hall, 2411 W Central Park Ave, Davenport.  Ambrosians for Peace and Justice will be carpooling there; if you would like to join us, please contact Kaitlin at ministry@sau.edu.

•Service on Saturday
Our service project this weekend will be an early one but a great way to get your steps in for the day!  We’ll join the River Bend Food Bank Backpack program and make packs for food for kids on the weekends. We will carpool on Saturday, meeting at the Rogalski center at 7:45am and returning by 10:15am.   This would be a great activity to do with family members of all ages too, so if your family is here for the weekend and you want to volunteer together, that’s great!  Let us know if you can join us at ministry@sau.edu!

•Antioch Retreat NEXT WEEKEND!
It’s not too late to sign up for the Antioch Retreat - there are a few spots remaining.  Retreat is Friday, Nov 10 - Sunday, Nov 12.  We leave at 6pm on Friday, and are back by 2pm on Sunday.  This is a great chance to get away from campus and reflect on faith and life in the midst of a Christian community.  Open to any SAU student.  Register online at http://tinyurl.com/AntiochFA17 or pick up a registration form in Chapel Gathering Space and return to it Campus Ministry ASAP! For more information contact Joe McCaughey and Grace Cerny.

•Grad Student Night @ Circle Tap
Calling all Graduate Students!  Join us this Tuesday, November 5th for a night of faith and fun!  On the first Tuesday of every month Campus Ministry is inviting all graduate students to come together at 4:30pm daily Mass.  Following mass, we will head over to Circle Tap for a nice, relaxing break at the end of classes and studying.  Feel free to invite your classmates as well!  Please contact the Campus Ministry Graduate Assistant, Paul Burd, via email at burdpaula@sau.edu for more information.  Hope to see you there!

•Introduction to Catholic Studies Course in Spring 2018
Come learn more about the history, key figures, and the cultural impact of the Catholicism.  In CATH-201-A, Introduction to Catholic Studies, we will look at Catholic history, the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, and the impact that Catholicism has made on the world.  This course will be offered again starting in the Spring semester (Tuesday/Thursday 1:40-2:55pm), taught by Chris Clow from Campus Ministry.  Contact him at ministry@sau.edu to learn more about the course, and ask your advisor about it when preparing to register!

•Music for the Feast of St. Ambrose Mass
Calling all musical Ambrosians!  All SAU students, faculty, and staff are invited to join with Music Ministry and help lead music for the Feast of St. Ambrose Mass on Sunday, December 3 at 10:30am.  People of all skill levels are welcome.  Contact Chris Clow at ministry@sau.edu to sign up.  Rehearsals will be Mondays November 13 & 27 at 7pm in the Chapel.

•Coming Soon: Hunger Week
Ambrosians for Peace and Justice are busy planning their annual Hunger Week, which will kick off on Monday November 13th with the Clothes Out Hunger clothing sale, from 10am-3pm in lower Cosgrove that day.   Any gently-used clothing donations can be dropped off in the conference room in the Lower Chapel.  APJ will also be hosting a Hunger Banquet global simulation on Tuesday, November 14th from 5-6:30 in the cafeteria.  Save the dates to join us! 

•R.C.I.A./Becoming Catholic Sessions
SAU students, faculty and staff interested in becoming Catholic or learning more about the Church are invited to contact Tammy Norcross-Reitzler in Campus Ministry ministry@sau.edu or 333-6132 for more information about the process.  Meetings are Sundays after the evening mass in the Lower Chapel.

•Announcing Service Trips!
We’re ready to unveil the locations for our Winter and Spring Break service trips!  January 10-13th, we will offer a trip to East St. Louis to stay at the Hubbard House.  We will have opportunities to serve at after-school programs, a shelter for women and children who are victims of domestic violence, a K-8 Catholic school, and prepare meals in a soup kitchen!  Applications for the Winter Break trip are available now and due by December 1st.  Spring Break service trips (March 10-16th) will be heading to Chicago, Grafton IL, and Holly Springs MS.  Watch for more information on these soon!

10.29.17

Campus Ministry Bulletin
vol 26 no 10

October 29, 2017 - Thirtieth Sunday of Ordinary Time
+ Exodus 22:20-26 + 1 Thessalonians 1:5-10 + Matthew 22:34-40 +
Masses this Sunday at 10:30 am and 6:30pm

Mass Intentions:

Sunday	10.29	10:30 am 6:30 pm	For the SAU Community
Monday	10.30	Noon	+ Msgr. Francis X. Mankel, '57
Tuesday	10.31	4:30 pm	+ John Pritchard, '67
Wednesday	11.01	Noon 9:15 pm	For Student Intentions
Thursday	11.02	4:30 pm	Deceased SAU Faculty & Staff
Friday	11.03	Noon	Deceased Students & Alumni

This Week's Activities Include:
Sunday: Busy Student Retreat Orientation 7:15 pm (Gathering Space); RCIA 7:30 pm (Lower Chapel)
Monday: Nurses Christian Fellowship 3 pm (Gathering Space); C.S. Lewis Prayer Group 7 pm (Gathering Space)
Tuesday: Bridge Bible Fellowship 9 pm (Chapel)
Wednesday: Ambrosians for Peace and Justice 8 pm (Lower Chapel); 9:15 pm Mass & More (Grotto)
Thursday: Busy Student Retreat Closing 12:15 pm (Gathering Space); Music Ministry Rehearsal 7 pm (Chapel)

Sacrament of Reconciliation Offered Before Every Daily Mass
Monday/Friday - 11:15 am
Tuesday/Thursday - 3:45 pm
Wednesday - 8:30 pm


Campus Ministry Offices - Lower Chapel
333-6132 or ministry@sau.edu  
Twitter: @SAUCampusMin
Fr. Thom Hennen, Chaplain
Chris Clow, Director of Music and Liturgy
Kaitlin Depuydt, Director of Service and Social Justice
Tammy Norcross-Reitzler, Director of Faith Formation
Paul Burd, Grad Assistant

Prayer Ministry - send intentions to BeesKnees@sau.edu.

Sign Up for Campus Ministry Events any time during the year!  Go to: www.tinyurl.com/campusmin2017.


Tempus Fugit
Time flies!  I feel like I have been here about three weeks, but here we are almost four months after I officially began as Chaplain and more than halfway through the first semester already.  This is a very good sign.  It means that I am definitely not bored and I that I am truly enjoying this new ministry.  Life moves pretty fast in campus ministry and in life in general -- all the more reason to be sure to take time to slow down and “re-collect” ourselves.  There are a few great opportunities for our students to do just that coming up very soon.  First, our Busy Student Retreat will begin following the 6:30 Mass this Sunday.  Also, our Fall Antioch Retreat will be November 10-12 (more information on this can be found further down in the bulletin).  I have always found fall to be a very natural time for recollection, if somewhat melancholic.  As the calendar year draws to a close, the harvest is gathered from the fields and the trees drop their leaves, it is only fitting to look back on our lives and consider where we are with God and where God may be leading us going forward.  This is also a natural time of the year for us to think of family, especially with Thanksgiving just around the corner.  We welcome the families of our students in a special way for “Family Weekend” November 3-5.  Lastly, in the Catholic tradition, November is set aside as a month to remember our family members, friends and loved ones who have gone before us.  Beginning November 2, the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (or “All Souls Day”), and throughout  the month of November prayer cards will be available in the chapel for you to list the names of your loved ones who have died, especially in this past year.  We will remember them in our prayers and in our Masses, grateful for their influence on our lives and hopeful in the resurrection to come.  As we move deeper into autumn and into this “new” academic year, please know of my continued prayers for you and your families.  -Fr. Thom

•Remembering Our Deceased Loved Ones Throughout November
In the Catholic Tradition, the month of November is a time to pray for our deceased loved ones.  We invite all Ambrosians to acknowledge the deceased who have been close to you by writing their names on cards which will be available in the pews and in the Gathering Space this weekend.  Please place the filled out cards in the basket provided in the Gathering Space.  They will be placed before the altar and remembered at all of our masses throughout the month of November.  In the words of St. Ambrose of Milan, our patron, “We have loved them in this life. Let us not abandon them until we have conducted them by our prayers into the house of the Lord."

•All Saints Day
Wednesday, November 1, is the Solemnity of All Saints, a Holy Day of Obligation for Catholics.  The 4:30pm mass on Tuesday, October 31, will be celebrated as the Vigil mass for All Saints.  Masses on All Saints Day will be offered at 12 noon and 9:15 pm in Christ the King Chapel.

•Bring Photos to Honor and Pray for Deceased Loved Ones at Mass and More
Throughout the month of November, we remember the deceased loved ones of the St. Ambrose University community at every mass, but we especially invite students to bring pictures of their deceased loved ones to the 9:15pm Mass and More on Wednesday, November 1.  We will place the pictures in the sanctuary for the evening mass, as we commemorate the Feast of All Saints, while also looking ahead to All Souls, also known as Dia de los Muertos/the Day of the Dead.

•Service on Saturday
Our service project this weekend will be with the Butterworth Center, which is a historic mansion site in Moline (fun local history lesson: the mansion was a gift from John Deere to his granddaughter - and is now a site for non-profit groups and community events.)  We'll be helping with some outdoor fall projects in the gardens and on the grounds.  We will carpool on Saturday, meeting at the Rogalski center at 12:15pm and returning by 2:45pm.  Let us know if you can join us at ministry@sau.edu!

•Welcome Busy Student Retreat Guides
We are pleased to welcome Sister Marilyn Breen, PBVM; Fr. Adam MacDonald, SVD; Sr. Stefanie MacDonald, OSB; Sr. Belinda Monahan, OSB; and Sr. Lynn Mousel, CHMI to campus as spiritual guides for this semester’s Busy Student Retreat.  Over 30 students will be meeting with the spiritual guides this week to reflect on scripture and the movement of God in their lives.   Please keep the directors and students in your prayers this week.

•Antioch Retreat November 10-12 - Registration Ends November 1
Consider taking part in the Antioch Retreat this fall - November 10-12.  Transportation is provided, leaving campus on Friday, November 10 at 6 pm and returning Sunday, November 12 at 2 pm. The Antioch Retreat is a great opportunity for students to spend time away from campus reflecting on faith and life in the midst of a Christian community.  It is open to any SAU student.   The retreat is an opportunity to relax, listen, discuss, pray, play and meet new people.  Register online at http://tinyurl.com/AntiochFA17 or pick up a registration form in Chapel Gathering Space and return to it Campus Ministry by Wednesday, November 1. For more information contact the co-leaders of the retreat, Joe McCaughey and Grace Cerny.

•Coming Soon: Hunger Week
Ambrosians for Peace and Justice are busy planning their annual Hunger Week, which will kick off on Monday November 13th with the Clothes Out Hunger clothing sale.   Any gently-used clothing donations can be dropped off in the conference room in the Lower Chapel.  APJ will also be hosting a Hunger Banquet global simulation that week, so watch for more details soon! 

•Introduction to Catholic Studies Course in Spring 2018
Come learn more about the history, key figures, and the cultural impact of the Catholicism.  In CATH-201-A, Introduction to Catholic Studies, we will look at Catholic history, the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, and the impact that Catholicism has made on the world.  This course will be offered again starting in the Spring semester (Tuesday/Thursday 1:40-2:55pm), taught by Chris Clow from Campus Ministry.  Contact him at ministry@sau.edu to learn more about the course, and ask your advisor about it when preparing to register!

•Music for the Feast of St. Ambrose Mass
Calling all musical Ambrosians!  All SAU students, faculty, and staff are invited to join with Music Ministry and help lead music for the Feast of St. Ambrose Mass on Sunday, December 3 at 10:30am.  People of all skill levels are welcome.  Contact Chris Clow at ministry@sau.edu to sign up.  Rehearsals will be Mondays November 13 & 27 at 7pm in the Chapel.

•Thinking of Priesthood Day
The four dioceses of Iowa are sponsoring a “Thinking of Priesthood Day” on Saturday, November 4 at St. Cecilia Parish in Ames, Iowa.  The day begins at 9:00 am with a light breakfast and concludes with Mass (for Sunday) and dinner following, ending at 6:30 pm.  This day for college-age men focuses on the themes of discernment, addresses the common fears of those considering a vocation the priesthood, answers questions about the application process and seminary life, and includes a testimony of a current seminarian and a talk by a married couple about the important role that priests have played in their life and community.    Fr. Thom is already planning on going out to this event and would love to take a few with him.  If you are interested in attending, please e-mail Fr. Thom as soon as possible at hennenthomasj@sau.edu.

10.22.17

Campus Ministry Bulletin
vol 26 no 9

October 22, 2017 - Twenty-Ninth Sunday of Ordinary Time
+ Isaiah 45:1, 4-6 + 1 Thessalonians 1:1-5 + Matthew 22:15-21 +
Masses this Sunday at 10:30 am and 6:30pm

Mass Intentions:

Sunday	10.22	10:30 am 6:30 pm	For the SAU Community
Monday	10.23	Noon	+ Bishop David Choby, '69
Tuesday	10.24	4:30 pm	+ James Eugene Day
Wednesday	10.25	9:15 pm	For Student Intentions
Thursday	10.26	4:30 pm	+ Charlie Eagle
Friday	10.27	Noon	+ Thomas Noga, '69

This Week's Activities Include:
Sunday: Pacem in Terris Award 2 pm (Chapel); RCIA 7:30 pm (Lower Chapel)
Monday: Nurses Christian Fellowship 3 pm (Gathering Space); C.S. Lewis Prayer Group 7 pm (Gathering Space)
Tuesday: Lectio Divina 8 pm (Gathering Space); Peer Campus Ministers 8:30 pm (Lower Chapel); Bridge Bible Fellowship 9 pm (Chapel)
Wednesday: Ambrosians for Peace and Justice 8 pm (Lower Chapel); 9:15 pm Mass & More (Grotto)
Thursday: Music Ministry Rehearsal 7 pm (Chapel)

Sacrament of Reconciliation Offered Before Every Daily Mass
Monday/Friday - 11:15 am
Tuesday/Thursday - 3:45 pm
Wednesday - 8:30 pm


Campus Ministry Offices - Lower Chapel
333-6132 or ministry@sau.edu  
Twitter: @SAUCampusMin
Fr. Thom Hennen, Chaplain
Chris Clow, Director of Music and Liturgy
Kaitlin Depuydt, Director of Service and Social Justice
Tammy Norcross-Reitzler, Director of Faith Formation
Paul Burd, Grad Assistant

Prayer Ministry - send intentions to BeesKnees@sau.edu.

Sign Up for Campus Ministry Events any time during the year!  Go to: www.tinyurl.com/campusmin2017.


Give to God what belongs to God
In the Gospel for this Sunday, Jesus once again deftly outmaneuvers his opponents.  When asked about whether or not it is lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, Jesus responds, “Repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.”  It would seem that in our world today there is a chasm between civil engagement and religious faith.  We are told in so many words and ways that we can choose one of these two, but not both.  The charge is often heard that the church should “keep its nose out of politics.”  If what is meant by this is that we should be careful to respect a legitimate separation between church and state, that we should not engage in partisan politics, and that we should avoid the kind of rancor that, sadly, has become all too familiar in our modern political discourse, then I agree.  But the church will never completely be able to extract itself from politics.  Why?  Because politics is ultimately about people, and the church happens to be very interested in people.  It need not be the case that doing right by people and doing right by God are mutually exclusive.  In fact, I would say that in truly honoring God, we will always also honor people, and vice versa.  In this sense, the “City of God” and the “City of Man” do not have to exist on separate planets.  Our tradition of Catholic social teaching, from Pope Leo XIII’s Rerum Novarum (on the rights of workers) to Pope Francis’ Laudato Si (on care for creation), beautifully weds these worlds.  This Sunday at 2:00 p.m. in Christ the King Chapel we will honor two women who in doing right by people through their civil engagement and advocacy also give honor to God.  Dr. Widad Akreyi, an Iraqi born Danish health expert of Kurdish descent, will receive the Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award for her work to end civil rights abuses in the Middle East and to build bridges between cultures.  Nora Dvorak will receive the first ever One Among Us Justice Award for her many and various efforts to work for justice within our local community.  Let’s not present ourselves with a false choice, but take up the charge of Jesus to give to the world what belongs to the world and to God what belongs to God.  We may find that in doing so we are, in many cases, offering the same gift.    -Fr. Thom

•Discernment Group Thursday, Oct. 19
What is life like after college? Where am I going to be? What do I want to continue? If I want to go to Church, where do I go? How do I build a new community after graduation? This small group is designed to help guide upperclassmen with decisions regarding jobs, faith, and general lifestyles after college. Father Thom will facilitate the first meeting on October 19th at 8:00pm in the gathering space.  While the group is focused on upperclassmen, you don't need to be an upperclassmen or Catholic to join, all are welcome!  For more information contact Peer Campus Ministers Bizzie Braun or Abby Hammer.

•Service on Saturday
Our service project this weekend will be with Juan Diez Rancheros, a therapy program using horses in Davenport.  The project will be bringing hay into the horse barn to prepare the barn for the colder months.  This "Hay Day" will be on Saturday, meeting at the Rogalski center at 8:45am and returning by 11. Let us know if you can join us at ministry@sau.edu - we also have ideas of needs in the community with child care, literacy programs, food assistance programs, Halloween parties and more!

•Pacem in Terris Award Presentation Sunday, October 22
The Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom award will be given this Sunday, October 22nd at 2pm in Christ the King Chapel.   Pacem in Terris is an award with national recognition, having been given 43 times since 1964 to recipients such as St. Teresa of Calcutta, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., President John F. Kennedy, Dorothy Day, Sr. Helen Prejean, and Fr. Gustavo Gutierrez.  This year’s recipient is Dr. Widad Akreyi, a health expert, author and human rights activist of Kurdish ancestry who co-founded the human rights organization, Defend International.  Nora Dvorak will also be honored with the inaugural “One Among Us” Justice award.  All are welcome to attend.

•Lectio Divina Prayer
Students are invited to the Chapel Gathering Space Tuesday evening at 8 pm for group Lectio Divina on one or more of the upcoming Sunday Scriptures.  Lectio Divina is a slow, contemplative reading, meditation and prayer intended to promote communion with God.  For more information contact one of the Peer Campus Ministers or Tammy at ministry@sau.edu.

•Project Renewal’s Halloween Party!
Project Renewal, an after-school program near campus, is having their annual Halloween party for the kids & families this Wednesday, October 25th, from 3-5pm.  There will be lots of SAU clubs and teams there with games and activities, let us know if you are interested in helping out by emailing ministry@sau.edu.

•Lectors Needed
We are seeking new and returning students to serve as lectors.  Please register for a practice time at: www.tinyurl.com/SAULectorTrng or email Paul Burd at ministry@sau.edu.

•Busy Student Retreat October 29-November 2nd   
The Busy Student Retreat, October 29-Nov. 2nd,  takes place right here on-campus in the midst of your regular schedule.  Participants commit daily to 30 minutes of personal prayer time and another 30 minutes to a one-on-one meeting with a spiritual guide.  Register online at www.tinyurl.com/SAUBusy17 or by dropping off a registration form at the Campus Ministry offices in the lower chapel by Wednesday, October 25th.

•Bring Photos to Honor and Pray for Deceased Loved Ones at Mass and More
Throughout the month of November, we remember the deceased loved ones of the St. Ambrose University community at every mass, but we especially invite students to bring pictures of their deceased loved ones to the 9:15pm Mass and More on Wednesday, November 1.  We will place the pictures in the sanctuary for the evening mass, as we commemorate the Feast of All Saints, while also looking ahead to All Souls, also known as Dia de los Muertos/the Day of the Dead.

•Introduction to Catholic Studies Course in Spring 2018
Come learn more about the history, key figures, and the cultural impact of the Catholicism.  In CATH-201-A, Introduction to Catholic Studies, we will look at Catholic history, the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, and the impact that Catholicism has made on the world.  This course will be offered again starting in the Spring semester (Tuesday/Thursday 1:40-2:55pm), taught by Chris Clow from Campus Ministry.  Contact him at ministry@sau.edu to learn more about the course, and ask your advisor about it when preparing to register!

•Music for the Feast of St. Ambrose Mass
Calling all musical Ambrosians!  All SAU students, faculty, and staff are invited to join with Music Ministry and help lead music for the Feast of St. Ambrose Mass on Sunday, December 3 at 10:30am.  People of all skill levels are welcome.  Contact Chris Clow at ministry@sau.edu to sign up.  Rehearsals will be Mondays November 13 & 27 at 7pm in the Chapel.

•Antioch Retreat November 10-12
Consider taking part in the Antioch Retreat this fall - November 10-12.  Transportation is provided, leaving campus on Friday, November 10 at 6 pm and returning Sunday, November 12 at 2 pm. The Antioch Retreat is a great opportunity for students to spend time away from campus reflecting on faith and life in the midst of a Christian community.  It is open to any SAU student.   The retreat is an opportunity to relax, listen, discuss, pray, play and meet new people.  Register online at http://tinyurl.com/AntiochFA17 or pick up a registration form in Chapel Gathering Space and return to it Campus Ministry. For more information contact the co-leaders of the retreat, Joe McCaughey and Grace Cerny.

•Exploring Priesthood Weekend at Mundelein Seminary
Mundelein Seminary will host an Exploring Priesthood Weekend October 27-29 (begins Friday evening and ends Sunday early afternoon).  This is a retreat-like weekend in which men can visit the seminary, learn about the community and discern God’s call.  Our very own Grant Colborn (‘17) is now a seminarian for the Diocese of Davenport studying at Mundelein, so you may get to see him as well!  If you are interested in this “come and see” experience, please contact Fr. Thom at ministry@sau.edu for more information.

10.08.17

Campus Ministry Bulletin
vol 26 no 8

October 8, 2017 - Twenty-Seventh Sunday of Ordinary Time
+ Isaiah 5:1-7 + Philippians 4:6-9 + Matthew 21:33-43 +
Masses this Sunday at 10:30 am and 6:30 pm

October 15, 2017 - Twenty-Eighth Sunday of Ordinary Time
+ Isaiah 25:6-10 + Philippians 4:12-14, 19-20 + Matthew 22:1-14 +
Mass this Sunday at 6:30 pm ONLY

Mass Intentions:

Sunday	10.08	10:30 am 6:30 pm	For the SAU Community
Monday	10.09	Noon	+ Richard Wieskamp, '58
Tuesday	10.10	4:30 pm	+ Theodore Schlink, Jr, '50
Wednesday	10.11	9:15 pm	For Student Intentions
Thursday	10.12	4:30 pm	+ Jeanne Kinney, '76
Sunday	10.15	6:30 pm	For the SAU Community
Monday	10.16	Noon	+ James Haronik, '65
Tuesday	10.17	4:30 pm	+ Dr. Mike Orfitelli
Wednesday	10.18	9:15 pm	For Student Intentions
Thursday	10.19	4:30 pm	+ Dr. Patrick Callahan, '65
Friday	10.20	Noon	+ Sarah Sacco, '53

This Week's Activities Include:
Sunday (8th): RCIA 7:30 pm (Lower Chapel)
Tuesday (10th): Lectio Divina 8 pm (Gathering Space); Peer Campus Ministers 8:30 pm (Lower Chapel); Bridge Bible Fellowship 9 pm (Chapel)
Wednesday (11th): Ambrosians for Peace and Justice 8 pm (Lower Chapel); 9:15 pm Mass & More (Grotto/Chapel)
Sunday (15th): RCIA 7:30 pm (Lower Chapel)
Tuesday (17th): Assumption Choral Concert 7 pm (Chapel); Bridge Bible Fellowship 9 pm (Chapel)
Wednesday (18th): Ambrosians for Peace and Justice 8 pm (Lower Chapel); 9:15 pm Mass & More (Grotto/Chapel)
Thursday (19th): Music Ministry Rehearsal 7 pm (Chapel)


Sacrament of Reconciliation offered Every Week
Monday/Friday - 11:15 am
Tuesday/Thursday - 3:45 pm
Wednesday - 8:30 pm



Campus Ministry Offices - Lower Chapel
333-6132 or ministry@sau.edu  
Twitter: @SAUCampusMin
Fr. Thom Hennen, Chaplain
Chris Clow, Director of Music and Liturgy
Kaitlin Depuydt, Director of Service and Social Justice
Tammy Norcross-Reitzler, Director of Faith Formation
Paul Burd, Grad Assistant

Prayer Ministry - send intentions to BeesKnees@sau.edu.

Sign Up for Campus Ministry Events any time during the year!  Go to: www.tinyurl.com/campusmin2017.


What’s Going On?
It was April 20, 1999, my junior year at St. Ambrose.  I remember eating lunch with my friends in the cafeteria when the breaking news came on the TV about the school shooting at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado.  I remember the feeling of shock, dread, confusion, anger and sadness that I personally felt and which seemed to come over everyone.  We simply couldn’t believe what we were seeing.  There was a strange somberness in the cafeteria and on campus that day.  I compare that to the feeling I had this past Monday morning when I woke up and turned on my radio to learn about the mass shooting that had taken place just the night before in Las Vegas.  13 were killed in the Columbine shooting.  58 were killed in the Las Vegas shooting.  And yet, I am ashamed to admit that I did not feel the same intensity of grief that I did at the time of the Columbine shooting.  Why?  Is it that I have become cold and calloused in adulthood? Is it that the Columbine shooting seemed more discriminate, up close, and therefore more personal, as compared to someone spraying bullets into a crowd from 32 stories up? Is it that the Columbine shooting took place in a school?  Is it that our lightning-speed and increasingly “virtual” modern means of communication and media consumption tend to have a dehumanizing effect?  Or could it be that the recent shooting in Las Vegas is the fortieth mass shooting in the United States since Columbine?  Sadly, we have become desensitized to this sort of thing.  I don’t think this is because we want to be desensitized, but simply that in the face of such recurring violence our psyches find a way to cope.  One of my greatest concerns in all of this is that for many of our current students such incidences have become “normal.”  The song that plays over and over in my head as I think of this is Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On,” written from the perspective of a Vietnam veteran returning home from the war only to find his country caught up in its own violence.  He sings: “Mother, mother.  There’s too many of you crying.  Brother, brother, brother.  There’s far too many of you dying.  You know we’ve got to find a way to bring some lovin’ here today.”  As we continue to pray for the victims of this most recent and deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history and for their families and loved ones, let’s also commit ourselves never to accept such acts as normal.  Rather, let’s cultivate true compassion (a word that literally means “suffering with”) by remembering that these are our brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, and children.   -Fr. Thom


•Midterm Break Chapel Schedule
Due to Fall Break, there will be no daily mass on Friday, October 13 and no 10:30am mass on Sunday, October 15.  Regular mass schedule resumes with the 6:30pm mass on Sunday, October 15.

•Commissioning of Liturgical Ministers
We will commission all of our lectors, extraordinary ministers of holy communion, musicians, sacristans, altar servers, and ministers of hospitality at both the 10:30am and 6:30pm masses on Sunday, October 8.  Thank you to all our students who volunteer in these important ministries!

•Service on Saturday
Our service project this weekend on October 7th is with the River Bend Food Bank’s backpack program from 10:15-12:45.   If you are looking for other service opportunities, let us know at ministry@sau.edu - we have ideas of needs in the community with childcare, fall and Halloween kids’ events, literacy programs, food assistance programs, and more!

•R.C.I.A./Becoming Catholic Sessions Begin
SAU students, faculty and staff interested in becoming Catholic or learning more about the Church, its teachings, rituals and way of life are invited to contact Tammy Norcross-Reitzler in Campus Ministry ministry@sau.edu or 333-6132 for more information about the process.  Our first gathering will be Sunday, October 8th after the 6:30 pm Mass in the lower chapel.

•Hurricane Relief & Recovery Efforts
THANK YOU to everyone at SAU who gave to help the hurricane relief efforts.  Because of you, we will be sending Catholic Charities $1,500 which will go directly to the affected communities.  Well done Ambrosians!

•Lectors Needed
We are seeking new and returning students to serve as lectors.  Please register for a practice time at: www.tinyurl.com/SAULectorTrng or email Paul Burd at ministry@sau.edu.

•Small Group Praying with CS Lewis
Peer Campus Minister Katie Galuska (galuskakatherinem@sau.edu) leads a small faith sharing group on Mondays at 7 pm in the Gathering Space.  The group reflects on the writings and meditations of CS Lewis and related Scripture passages.   All are welcome.

•Lectio Divina Prayer
Students are invited to the Chapel Gathering Space every other Tuesday evening (beginning Oct. 10th) at 8 pm for group Lectio Divina on one or more of the upcoming Sunday Scriptures.  Lectio Divina is a slow, contemplative reading, meditation and prayer intended to promote communion with God.  For more information contact one of the Peer Campus Ministers or Tammy at ministry@sau.edu.

•Join Bishop Zinkula at Mass and More!
The new Bishop of Davenport, Most Rev. Thomas Zinkula, will be our special guest for Mass & More at 9:15pm on Wednesday, October 11.  Bishop Zinkula will celebrate mass with us, and stick around for the More afterwards to meet students.  Plus, there will be apples with homemade caramel for dipping.  Yet another great reason to join us on Wednesday nights!  If the weather's good, we’ll be out at the Grotto; otherwise, we’ll be in the Chapel.  Pay attention to Facebook (facebook.com/SAUCampusMinistry) and Twitter (@SAUCampusMin) for Mass & More updates.

•Pacem in Terris Award Presentation Sunday, October 22
The Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom award will be given on Sunday, October 22nd at 2pm in Christ the King Chapel.   Pacem in Terris is an award with national recognition, having been given 43 times since 1964 to recipients such as St. Teresa of Calcutta, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., President John F. Kennedy, Dorothy Day, Sr. Helen Prejean, and Fr. Gustavo Gutierrez.  This year’s recipient is Dr. Widad Akreyi, a health expert, author and human rights activist of Kurdish ancestry who cofounded the human rights organization, Defend International.  Nora Dvorak will also be honored with the inaugural “One Among Us” Justice award.  All are welcome to attend.

•Introduction to Catholic Studies Course in Spring 2018
Come learn more about the history, key figures, and the cultural impact of the Catholicism.  In CATH-201-A, Introduction to Catholic Studies, we will look at Catholic history, the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, and the impact that Catholicism has made on the world.  This course will be offered again starting in the Spring semester (Tuesday/Thursday 1:40-2:55pm), taught by Chris Clow from Campus Ministry.  Contact him at ministry@sau.edu to learn more about the course, and ask your advisor about it when preparing to register!

•Exploring Priesthood Weekend at Mundelein Seminary
Mundelein Seminary will host an Exploring Priesthood Weekend October 27-29 (begins Friday evening and ends Sunday early afternoon).  This is a retreat-like weekend in which men can visit the seminary, learn about the community and discern God’s call.  Our very own Grant Colborn (‘17) is now a seminarian for the Diocese of Davenport studying at Mundelein, so you may get to see him as well!  If you are interested in this “come and see” experience, please contact Fr. Thom at ministry@sau.edu for more information.

•Annual Diocese Appeal
As a diocesan university we are connected to a larger local church, the Diocese of Davenport, comprised of 22 counties in southeast Iowa.  Each year the Diocese conducts an appeal to support the various ministries that happen throughout the Diocese, from faith formation, to youth ministry, to our local marriage tribunal.  A large portion of the appeal also goes toward the education of our seminarians and candidates for the permanent diaconate.  We invite you to prayerfully consider a contribution to the Annual Diocesan Appeal.  Informational flyers and envelopes are available in the gathering space.  Thank you.

10.01.17

Campus Ministry Bulletin
vol 26 no 7

October 1, 2017 - Twenty-Sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time
+ Ezekiel 18:25-28 + Philippians 2:1-11 + Matthew 21:28-32 +
Masses this Sunday at 10:30 am and 6:30pm

Mass Intentions:

Sunday	10.01	10:30 am 6:30 pm	Deceased members of class of '67 For the SAU Community
Monday	10.02	Noon	+ Harry Winters, '52
Tuesday	10.03	4:30 pm	+ Thomas McGinn, '51
Wednesday	10.04	9:15 pm	For Student Intentions
Thursday	10.05	4:30 pm	+ Joe Lee, '93
Friday	10.06	Noon	+ John Neary, '85

This Week's Activities Include:
Monday: Reconciliation 11:15 am (Chapel)
Tuesday: Reconciliation 3:45 pm (Chapel); EM Training 7 pm (Chapel); Peer Campus Ministers 8 pm (Lower Chapel); Bridge Bible Fellowship 9 pm (Chapel)
Wednesday: Ambrosians for Peace and Justice 8 pm (Lower Chapel); Reconciliation 8:30 pm (Chapel); 9:15 pm Mass & More (Grotto)
Thursday: Reconciliation 3:45 pm (Chapel); Music Ministry Rehearsal 7 pm (Chapel)
Friday: Reconciliation 11:15 am (Chapel)



Campus Ministry Offices - Lower Chapel
333-6132 or ministry@sau.edu  
Twitter: @SAUCampusMin
Fr. Thom Hennen, Chaplain
Chris Clow, Director of Music and Liturgy
Kaitlin Depuydt, Director of Service and Social Justice
Tammy Norcross-Reitzler, Director of Faith Formation
Paul Burd, Grad Assistant

Prayer Ministry - send intentions to BeesKnees@sau.edu.

Sign Up for Campus Ministry Events any time during the year!  Go to: www.tinyurl.com/campusmin2017.


Greetings from Rome and Happy Homecoming!
As I write this, I am in Rome for the diaconate ordination of one of our seminarians along with thirty of his classmates from dioceses across the United States.  While starting as chaplain here this July, I also kept my “old job” as vocation director for the Diocese of Davenport, which means the occasional visit to my other alma mater, the Pontifical North American College (where I went after graduating from St. Ambrose).  At the ordination Mass, at the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter’s Basilica, I was fortunate enough to be seated very close to Bernini’s famous sculpture depicting the chair of the Apostle Peter surrounded by four of the early Church fathers: St. John Chrysostom, St. Athanasius, St. Augustine, and our very own St. Ambrose.  At first it looks like these figures are holding up the chair, but when you look more closely, you discover that they are tethered to the chair by a cord as it floats above them, to show their connection to the “Chief of the Apostles.”  As I got to my place after the long procession and looked up to see St. Ambrose looking  down on me, I thought, “This is perfect!”  The day before, I was able to attend the general audience with Pope Francis along with people of every nation and language.  The colonnade of St. Peter’s square (also designed by Bernini) seems to reach out and embrace the world.  At this audience Pope Francis officially launched the “Share the Journey” campaign of Caritas International (the Vatican’s charitable arm).  This campaign is an effort to promote “encounter” (one of Pope Francis’s favorite words) between local communities and migrants and to remind Catholics everywhere of our global responsibility to be a welcoming church.  The theme that kept coming to mind in all of these experiences was “homecoming.”  It’s all about homecoming.  As a diocesan university, we are connected to  much bigger world and a much bigger church.  We are a second “home” to many, just as Rome is “home” to all who visit here.  As we celebrate our homecoming this week and many of our alumni return to their alma mater, I pray that we will be mindful of our place in the wider church and in the world, and that we will always be a welcoming community.  God bless and welcome home! ---Fr. Thom

•Collecting for Those Affected by Natural Disasters
Campus Ministry is collecting donations to go to Catholic Charities (the local giving arm of the USCCB) and Catholic Relief Services (the international arm of Catholic giving).  Both organizations are on the ground in affected areas in such as Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Mexico, the Caribbean, and others.  Donations can be sent to Campus Ministry through campus mail (memo: Relief) or in the collection basket during Sunday masses, and will be split between the two agencies.  You can also donate online at catholiccharitiesusa.org and crs.org.  Please give generously!  A little bit makes a world of difference!

•Wellness and Recreation Center Dedication
On Friday, September 29, at 5:30pm St. Ambrose University will have a Blessing, Dedication, and Ribbon-Cutting ceremony for the new Wellness and Recreation Center.  The Most Rev. Bishop Thomas Zinkula, Bishop of Davenport and Chair of the Board of Trustees, will lead the blessing.  Tours and light refreshments will follow.

•Faith-Learning-Justice Award Winners
Just in time for Homecoming weekend, we have a beautiful plaque hanging in our Gathering Space by the clock which lists all of our Faith Learning Justice award winners, dating back all the way to 2001.  This plaque will continue to be updated as the years go by, and is a standing testament to the service that our students and alumni have given to us in Campus Ministry, and to the university at large.  Be sure to check it out!

•Lectors Needed
There are lots of opportunities for interested students to be Lectors at mass, whether it’s at daily mass, Wednesday night Mass and More, or at both masses on Sundays.  We are seeking new and returning students to volunteer as lectors.  We will give you a brief training, and get a schedule for the rest of the semester.  Contact Tammy Norcross-Reitzler at ministry@sau.edu to learn more and to sign up!

•Small Group Praying with CS Lewis
Peer Campus Minister Katie Galuska (galuskakatherinem@sau.edu) will lead a small faith sharing group on Mondays at 7 pm in the Gathering Space beginning Monday, Oct. 2nd.  The group will reflect on the writings and meditations of CS Lewis and related Scripture passages.   All are welcome.

•Eucharistic Minister Training/Commissioning
A training session for new and experienced EMs will be Tuesday, October 3rd at 7 pm.  If you are interested in serving in this important ministry please plan to attend.  This ministry is reserved for practicing, confirmed Catholics.  To sign up to be a Eucharistic Minister here on campus, fill out the online interest form at www.tinyurl.com/campusmin2017 or please contact us at ministry@sau.edu for more information.  The Eucharistic Ministers will be commissioned at both masses, Sunday, Oct. 8th. 

•Grad Students
Attention SAU graduate students!  Looking for a bit of time away from all the studying and work?  Come join us for daily mass on Tuesday, October 3 at 4:30pm, followed by dinner and discussion with some of the Campus Ministry staff at Circle Tap.  If you’re interested, email Paul Burd at ministry@sau.edu and let us know you’re coming!

•Ambrose Women for Social Justice conference
Faculty, staff, students, and community members are invited to join the discussion on globalization and gender during the 14th annual Ambrose Women for Social Justice conference on Tuesday, October 3rd.  Several breakout workshops are offered during the day, and the keynote speaker will be at 7 p.m. in the Rogalski Center Ballroom.  The keynote is "Hands that Shape the World: Women and Global Migration," presented by Cathi Tactaquin, Executive Director and co-founder of the National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights.  Find more information at:  http://www.sau.edu/News_and_Events/E171003_AWSJ_Conference.html

•Pizza with Padre
Attention students: sign up for free pizza and a casual conversation with our new University Chaplain, Fr. Thom Hennen!  There are six different dates, first one on October 5, and eight slots for each date.  We will meet from 6:30-7:30 on each of the dates in the Lower Chapel Conference Room.  You can sign up as an individual and meet some new people or sign up as a group (friends, team, floormates, club, etc.).  Fr. Thom will provide the pizza.  You can let him know what kind of pizza you would like on sign-up sheet.  This is an opportunity for Fr. Thom to get know you and for you to get to know him as he begins this new ministry.  It will be fun, low-key and done in an hour.  The sign-up sheet is posted on Fr. Thom’s office door, Lower Chapel 103.

•Service on Saturday
With the many activities of Homecoming weekend, there is not a Service on Saturday project scheduled this weekend, but pencil in next weekend: October 7th with the River Bend Food Bank’s backpack program from 10:15-12:45.   If you are looking for service opportunities in the meantime, let us know at ministry@sau.edu - we have ideas of needs in the community with childcare, literacy programs, food assistance programs, and more!

•Gideon's Society on Campus Wednesday
Every couple years, members of the Gideon's Society, whose mission is to make Scriptures readily available to anyone who desires them, ask to come to campus to distribute free pocket size copies of the New Testament. We have given them permission to be at several spots on campus this Wednesday morning, October 4. They agree not to proselytize, but only to offer you an invitation to receive a copy of the New Testament. Please be courteous and respectful of their enthusiasm for the Word of God.