St. Mel Parish News

May Procession

Sun, 04 May 2008 12:47:00 GMT

St. Mel School invites all parishioners to join us in honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary in a special way during the month of May at our annual May Procession, Thursday, May 15 at 10:30 am.
Students will process from the school yard to the Church where we will pray the Rosary together, followed by the traditional crowning of Mary and concluding with Benediction.
It's the perfect occasion for us to unite in prayer to offer our petitions to Our Lady as well as prayers of thanksgiving for all that Mary has done for each of us, our families and our own St. Mel community during the past year.

First Communion 2008

Sun, 04 May 2008 12:43:00 GMT

Required First Communion Practices for Parents/Significant Adults and Children Wednesday, May 7th
5:45-7:00 pm: For 9:00 am First Communion Mass participants
7:00-8:15 pm: For 11:00 am First Communion Mass participants
6-7 pm: Thursday, May 8th, For RCIY students
Any questions? Please call Pat Andre, 818 340-6020, ext. 1022.

St. Mel School Summer Program

Sun, 04 May 2008 12:39:00 GMT

Join the Fun! June 23rd - July 18th
Summer School is open to all children whether or not they attend St. Mel School. Registration forms are available at the school office and must be completed and returned by Friday, June 6. Classes are from 8:30 until 9:45 am and 10 until 11:15 am daily. Classes offered are Reading, Writing, Math, Art, Drama and Hip-Hop Dance for all grades. Summer Sports Camp is from 11:30 until 2:30 pm. Special two-week sessions are available for Sports Camp.

Mother's Day Novena Cards

Sun, 04 May 2008 12:38:00 GMT

Mother's Day Novena Cards are available at all the exits of the Church

Notes from Francesco: Exciting News!

Sun, 04 May 2008 12:08:00 GMT

Next December the Music Ministry Department is presenting a complete production of the opera AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS. The performance dates are: DECEMBER 13, 14, 20, 21. It will be double-cast and auditions will be held for the main roles on an individual basis. AMAHL - a boy (or girl who doesn't mind playing a boy) around the age of 12, MOTHER - a Mezzo-Soprano, THE KINGS: BALTHAZAR - a Bass, MELCHIOR - a Baritone, KASPAR - a Tenor, THE PAGE, a Baritone. We also need a chorus of shepherds, villagers and dancers. It will be performed with full orchestra (Flute/Piccolo, 2 Oboes, Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, Trumpet, Percussion, Piano, Harp, and Strings). We also need help with costumes, make-up, set-design, etc. If you have interest in any of these areas and would like to support us, please contact Francesco. 818-340-6020, Ext. 1028 or falleruzzo@stmel.org

Also, from June 13th to - June 20, 2009, the Parish Choirs will be singing at the 25th anniversary of the INTERNATIONAL CHURCH MUSIC FESTIVAL in ROME, ITALY. Singers will be coming from all over the world to participate. We are looking for singers and non-singers alike who would be interested in joining us. The trip will include tours of the city including the Vatican Museum and the Coliseum, etc. Please save the dates! The current land-only price is $2,585.00 per person. Airfare will be set in the summer. Please watch the Bulletin for future info!

Electronic Giving Program

Sun, 04 May 2008 12:05:00 GMT

For your convenience, St. Mel is offering you the opportunity to support your parish through our electronic giving program.With electronic giving, your offering to St. Mel is automatically deducted from your checking account or charged to your credit card. It is easy to participate. Simply complete an authorization form, available at the church exits or in the office, and return it to the Parish Center. This form is also available online at www.stmelparish.org/library/forms/electronic_giving-authorization.pdfThat's all there is to it!
For more information or questions, call Rosemary McLarty at 340-6020 x1019.

Book Club News: The Way of the Small

Sun, 04 May 2008 12:04:00 GMT

Mother Teresa once said, "We can do no great things, only small things with great love." Last month we considered how Big Our God Is. On Wednesday, May 21 we will consider the other options which is why we must grow "small" in order to embrace this great God within us. The little book we will be reading is The Way of the Small by Michael Gelbert (0-89254-129-6 ISBN) available at St. Peter's Pier and other bookstores as well as on the web. The book is East meets West, Taoism meets Catholicism; Buddha meets Merton. Well known philosopher, Thomas Moore, calls this "A jewel of a book - with a pearl inside." Indeed it is. At some point in life all of us must grow small. We must diminish ourselves, so that God may grow inside of us and so that we may expand His role in our lives. The principle is "less is more". Come and join us in Room 200 of the ParishCenter, Wednesday, May 21 at 7 pm. Hope to see you. All are welcome.

Together In Community

Sun, 04 May 2008 12:04:00 GMT

We cannot e x p r e s s the fullness of our gratitude for all the encouragement and support we have received during our 18 months volunteer work in Malawi with Catholic Relief Services. Through your prayers, letters, phone calls, and gifts of support we have always felt connected to you and able to share your hearts with the people we encountered in Malawi. Your effort at St. Mel to keep us connected with all the parishioners through the bulletin and the St. Mel website has kept our parish family in touch with some of the realities of life in the developing world. Your continued support in encouraging us to share our experiences is gratifying and supportive to our hoped-for mission of bringing about solidarity. We are all diverse humans in one diverse human family. We are all affected by one another.

Respect Life News: Sarah's Law Signatures Exceed Target!

Sun, 04 May 2008 12:00:00 GMT

Friends of Sarah, a California initiative that requires doctors to notify parents before giving abortions to minors, has collected the required signatures to be placed on the upcoming November ballot. Across the United States there are a number of state-wide initiatives being put forward to address the antiabortion movement. According to a recent newspaper article, the differences among the state initiatives highlight the philosophical division as much as the unity of the sentiments across the country. To read more about this article, go to www.stmelparish.org/ministries/ respectlife/News/NEWS.htm

Catch The Spirit of Theresians

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:59:00 GMT

Are you seeking opportunities to grow in your understanding of what is true and essential to being a Christian woman? Theresian communities are sacred spaces where Christian women can give one another courage to meet the ups and downs of everyday life. If you feel the Spirit is calling you to be a part of a Theresian community, please contact Maty Goodman at (818) 591-3035.

Ministry Of Moms Sharing

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:57:00 GMT

The M.O.M.S. group meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month from 10 until 11:30 am in the Parish Center. Our next meeting will be on Wednesday, May 14. Please join us to share your ministry of motherhood. Children are welcome. For more information, please call Michele Killmond at (818) 887- 0021.

We Invite You To An Evening Of Discovery

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:57:00 GMT

Tuesday, May 13 7:30 pm St. Mel Activity Center
Come and find out how, with an empty structure, a few sheets of paper, some pencils, your prayers and support, the Chinsapo Orphan Outreach center grew to register 1400 children from the ages of 3 to 18 years, with a 1500 book library, a boys soccer team, and a girls net ball team. This sustainable program with over 30 volunteers is now funded by Catholic Relief Services and growing because of your support and prayers.

Healing The Wounds Of Divorce

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:56:00 GMT

St. Mel Parish offers a support group for separated and divorced Catholics. Meetings provide the opportunity for participants to share their feelings/experiences in an atmosphere that is supportive and and to move on towards positive growth. Group meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month in the Parish Center at 7 pm. Call 340-6020, ext. 1018.

S on World Adventure Park 2008 - July 28th - August 1st

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:54:00 GMT

It's coming! It's finally coming! VBS (known as "Vacation Bible School") is back for children ages 3 through 11! Come join us for five days at the greatest summer theme park of all time! Watch for more details. We need zillions of volunteers! Adults and teens! 818 340-6020, ext. 1022

Teen Confirmation News!

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:50:00 GMT

Reminder: Urban Plunge next weekend Friday and Saturday, May 8 and 9. For further information contact Tommy at 340-6020, ext. 1015.

Did You Know?

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:47:00 GMT

An Appropriate Way to Report Inappropriate Behavior. How should you communicate your concerns to someone who may be behaving inappropriately with children? The "I" message is a simple way to reframe what you want to say so that the listener hears you speak of your feelings and concerns rather than hearing a complaint against him- or herself. The "I" message, simply diagrammed, says, "I feel [feeling] when [situation] because [reason]." For example, you can say, "I feel anxious when you drive a child home alone after religious education classes, because that could put you or the child in a potentially risky situation." It is a much m

ore constructive approach than saying, "You shouldn't be driving children home alone because it is against the rules and puts them in danger." For particular help, you may call Assistance Ministry at 213 637 7650.

Important Sacramental Information.Baptism

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:46:00 GMT

Upcoming Baptism Preparation Classes will be held on Monday evenings, from 7- 8:30 pm, upstairs in the Parish Center on the following dates: May 5th and 12th ; June 2nd and 9th. Attendance at both classes is required for parents and godparents. Parents must also be registered members of St. Mel Parish. Baptisms will be held on Sunday afternoons at 1:00 pm. Parents need to call Pat Andre at 818 340-6020, ext. 1022 to arrange for an appointment.

Calling All Married Couples

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:44:00 GMT

p>Catholic, how would you and your spouse like to help engaged couples preparing for marriage? No experience necessary and free training is provided based on your busy lifestyle. Call Tom and Diane Drause at (310) 316-4857 for additional information. you can also visit our website at www.CEEofLA.org

Retired And Hungry For Spiritual Growth?

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:41:00 GMT

The Ignatian Volunteer Corps, the only national volunteer program in Los Angeles that combines service with ongoing reflection in the Ignatian tradition is hosting a half-day retreat on Sunday, June 8 on the LMU campus. Mass will be available at noon. The Ignatian spirituality program begins at 1 pm. The cost is $10. For more information and to RSVP please contact Jennifer Mangali at (310) 937-8280,jmangali@ivcusa.org

St. Mel Religious Library Topic Of The Week: "A Life in Theology"

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:39:00 GMT

After Cardinal Dulles reached statutory retirement age at the Catholic University of America, he taught at Fordham University for another 20 years. In this article he talks about his views on theological issues. Handouts are available at the library after Saturday evening and Sunday morning Masses.

Divine Mercy

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:35:00 GMT

Mass & Healing Service - Fr. Michael Manning. S.V.D., Wednesday, May 14 at 6:30 pm, St. Mel Church

p>Mass & Healing Service - Fr. Michael Sears, Wednesday, June 11 and Wednesday, August 13, 6pm at St. Mel Church

St. Padre Pio - the saint with the stigmata. His body was exhumed and found to be incorrupt after 40 years. A DVD on his life will be shown in the St. Mel Auditorium on Wednesday, May 7 at 6:30 pm.

Join us every Wednesday, at 6:30 pm in the Church for praise, worship, adoration, Chaplet of Divine Mercy, and veneration of first class relics of the saints. If you have any questions please call Claudia at (818) 342-6626 or you may e-mail Claudia at:divinemercyclaudia@earthlink.net

Preschool Registration

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:34:00 GMT

Registration for the 2008-09 school year has started at the Preschool. Parents who are considering enrolling their preschooler in St. Mel Preschool should call for an orientation tour appointment. The preschool accepts children who will be 2 years 6 months old by Monday, September 1, 2008. Children may attend two, three, or five days per week. Morning and afternoon schedules are available as well as full day. St. Mel parishioners are given priority in the enrollment process. Please call the Preschool Office at 340-3180 for an appointment.

Employment Opportunity At Angels Way Maternity Home

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:33:00 GMT

House Manager - This is a live-in position for an adult female to supervise the home and residents. It offers private room and bath, plus $900 per month. Requirements include having your own car, insurance and be a non-smoker. For information and/or application, please call (818) 346-2229.

St. Vincent de Paul

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:29:00 GMT

Next weekend is St. Vincent de Paul's monthly food drive. Please bring donations of food to the tent by the Parish Center. Envelopes are in the pews for your monetary donations.

Help Wanted!

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:28:00 GMT

The Environment Committee is in need of people to help with the preparation of the Church for Masses. There are three levels of need: those who would like to help on holidays only; those who can help on one or more weekends a month; someone who would like to train to take over the organization of the committee. Some experience with flower arrangement is helpful, but a sense of beauty and a desire to serve are the only requirements. Call Kathleen at 818-888-1198.

Young Adult Diners' Club

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:25:00 GMT

An opportunity for young adults to gather in a lively social setting. The restaurant pick for Saturday, May 10th at 7 pm is: Red's Barbeque, 3090 Cochran Street, Simi Valley. For further information call Deanna at (805) 529-8644.

Angels Way Bake Sale

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:22:00 GMT

Angels Way/Respect Life is having their monthly bake sale Sunday after the morning Masses. Please come by for some wonderful home-baked goodies! Your participation supports this ministry of life

Magnificat-A Ministry To Catholic Women

Sun, 04 May 2008 11:21:00 GMT

Prayer brunch, Saturday May 17, 10 am until 1 pm at the Odyssey Restaurant. Fr. Bill Adams will share his spiritual experience that kept him from leaving the priesthood. Cost $26. Mail check to Teri Thompson, 6202 Wisteria Drive, Simi Valley, 93063.

Notes from Francesco: Exciting News!

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 04:15:00 GMT

"Why Catholic?"

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 04:11:00 GMT

In his book "Nearer, My God" by William F. Buckley, Jr. the author, in the chapter entitled "On the Special Blessings and Problems, Of Catholics", quotes from an essay "Why Catholic" by Father Andrew Greeley. In pertinent part, Greeley states that if you use the failures of Christians and the failures of Christian leadership, which have nothing to do with the validity of the Catholic heritage, to leave the Church, you are engaged in an intellectually dishonest cop-out. The question is not whether the Catholic leadership is enlightened but whether Catholicism is true. The men discussed this issue in connection with Pope Benedict's visit to the United States and the issues his holiness addressed concerning the Catholic Church in America.
The Men's Club meets begin on the first and third Saturday of the month and meetings begin with Mass at 8 am followed by coffee and discussion in the Parish Center.. The next meeting is May 3rd.
Without officers, without bylaws, the Men's Club mission is solely to increase our spiritual life with God. By showing up, one becomes a member. . For information about the Men's Club, call John O'Sullivan at 710-9030.

Monday Adult Club

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 04:09:00 GMT

The Monday Adult Club will meet on Monday, April 28th, at 10:30 am. in the back section of the Activity Center. The Center is open at 9:30 AM for socializing. There will be a presentation by a docent from the Leonis Adobe.
Membership is open to all who have celebrated a 50th birthday. Call Giovana at 592-6308 for information.
TRIPS: Wednesday, April 30, Santa Barbara Culinary for lunch, and a trip to the Zoo. Meet the bus at DAV at 9 am. Sunday, May 4, Candlelight Theatre for "The Buddy Holly Story". Meet the bus at the Dennis Zine parking lot at 9:30 am. Wednesday, May 7, for the trip to Agua Caliente Casino. Meet at the DAV at 7:30 am. NOTICE: Trieloff will hold an information and documents meeting on Tuesday, April 29th upstairs in the Parish Center at 1 pm for those taking "The Vintage Trains of Scenic Southwest" leaving on May 18th. Those who are interested in hearing more about the trips to Sicily and Poland should meet with Collette Travel on Tuesday, June 3rd in the Parish Center at 12:30 p.m. For more information about trips, call Marilyn at 225-0221.

You're Invited!

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 04:06:00 GMT

We Invite You To An Evening Of Discovery
Tuesday, May 13 7:30 pm St. Mel Activity Center
Come and find out how, with an empty structure, a few sheets of paper, some pencils, your prayers and support, the Chinsapo Orphan Outreach center grew to register 1400 children from the ages of 3 to 18 years, with a 1500 book library, a boys soccer team, and a girls net ball team. This sustainable program with over 30 volunteers is now funded by Catholic Relief Services and growing because of your support and prayers.

Volunteer Receptionists Needed

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 04:04:00 GMT

St. Mel Parish is in need of part-time receptionists, one or two half days a week. This is a wonderful opportunity if you enjoy meeting people and are searching for a way to serve your parish. To apply call Rosemary at 340-6020, ext. 1019 or e-mail rmclarty@stmel.org

Thank You For Your Generosity

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The generosity of St. Mel Parish has given me a great strength to continue my mission in my diocese Ootacamund, India. Your love for the poor and to cooperate in the mission plan is amazing. The amount of $21,325 will help me to build one classroom where I can accommodate 50 students. I thank all of you for your prayers and financial generosity. I especially would like to thank Msgr. Steve Zak and Fr. Larry for their support and introducing me and my mission. I assure my prayers and our people will remember St. Mel in their humble prayers. Continue your support to Fr. Ben.
- Bishop Amalraj

Catch The Spirit of Theresians

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:54:00 GMT

Electronic Giving Program

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:53:00 GMT

For your convenience, St. Mel is offering you the opportunity to support your parish through our electronic giving program.With electronic giving, your offering to St. Mel is automatically deducted from your checking account or charged to your credit card. It is easy to participate. Simply complete an authorization form, available at the church exits or in the office, and return it to the Parish Center. That's all there is to it!
For more information or questions, call Rosemary McLarty at 340.6020 x1019

Ministry Of Moms Sharing

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:52:00 GMT

Healing The Wounds Of Divorce

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:50:00 GMT

St. Mel Parish offers a support group for separated and divorced Catholics. Meetings provide the opportunity for participants to share their feelings/experiences in an atmosphere that is supportive and non-judgmental, and to move on towards positive growth and acceptance of themselves. Group meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month in the Parish Center at 7 pm. Call 340-6020, ext. 1018.

St. Mel Religious Library Topic of the Week:

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:44:00 GMT

" To Sacrifice an Only Son"
The three great religions that Abraham fathered see the son differently. Jewish tradition sees Isaac as the son while, the Islamic tradition identifies Ismai'il, and the son in the Christian tradition is (ultimately) Jesus. Handouts are available at the library after Saturday evening and Sunday morning Masses.

TIM Update as of 4/16/08

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:43:00 GMT

Parish Goal: $115,355.80
Amount Pledged: $108,033.00
Amount Paid: $ 67,304.67
Thank you for your support of the poorest parishes and schools in our Archdiocese.

Did You Know?

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:41:00 GMT

Know Your Kids' School
Parents and guardians have the primary responsibility for protecting their children from all potential harm. When choosing a nursery, daycare center or school, parents should inspect the building and grounds to make sure there are no areas where children play or work that are "off limits" to parents. Such facilities should have a policy that welcomes parents to visit the center or school without prior appointment.
For particular help, you may call Assistance Ministry at 213-637-7650.

First Communion 2008

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:38:00 GMT

Required First Communion Practices for Parents/Significant Adults and Children
Wednesday, May 7th
5:45-7:00 pm:For 9:00 am First Communion Mass participants
7:00-8:15 pm:For 11:00 am First Communion Mass participants
6-7 pm: Thursday, May 8th, For RCIY students Any questions? Please call Pat Andre, 818 340-6020, ext. 1022.

Important Sacramental Information.Baptism

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:35:00 GMT

Retired And Hungry For Spiritual Growth?

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:30:00 GMT

Calling All Married Couples

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:24:00 GMT

If you are married and enjoy being Catholic, how would you and your spouse like to help engaged couples preparing for marriage? No experience necessary and free training is provided based on your busy lifestyle. Call Tom and Diane Drause at (310) 316-4857 for additional information. you can also visit our website at www.CEEofLA.org

Son World Adventure Park - July 28th to Aug 1st

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:20:00 GMT

Teen Confirmation News

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:19:00 GMT

p>All Year 2 Candidates must schedule a meeting with Tommy for a "sit down" meeting. To schedule an appointment, call or e-mail Tommy.

Confirmation rehearsal is on Saturday, May 3rd at 3 pm. The Rite of Confirmation will be at the 5:00 pm Mass on Sunday, May 4.

Magnificat-AMinistry To

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:17:00 GMT

Prayer brunch, Saturday May 17, 10 am until 1 pm at the Odyssey Restaurant. Fr. Bill Adams will share his faith pilgrimage and the spiritual experience that kept him from leaving the priesthood. Cost $26. Mail check to Teri Thompson, 6202 Wisteria Drive, Simi Valley, 93063

Divine Mercy

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:11:00 GMT

p>Mass & Healing Service - Fr. Michael Manning. S.V.D., Wednesday, May 14 at 6:30 pm, St. Mel Church

Mass & Healing Service - Fr. Michael Sears, Wednesday, June 11 and Wednesday, August 13 at 6:30 pm, St. Mel Church

St. Padre Pio - the saint with the stigmata. His body was exhumed and found to be incorrupt after 40 years. A DVD on his life will be shown in the St. Mel Auditorium on Wednesday, May 7 at 6:30 pm.

Help Wanted!

Sun, 27 Apr 2008 03:10:00 GMT