Blog
Monday Morning Memo — 28 August, 2023
Podcast: The Four Pillars of Stewardship — Formation
Click here to listen to the latest Podcast from the Diocese of Jefferson City which is focused on the topic of formation.
Our formation as Catholic stewards requires both an education of the mind and a conversion of the heart. In this month’s podcast, we continue our discussion with Fr. Stephen Jones about the Four Pillars of Stewardship.
This podcast is the third episode in our four-part series with Fr. Jones, the diocesan director of stewardship.
Please help share this podcast with your parish community!
All of the episodes in this series are available at diojeffcity.org/podcast.
Appointment of Fr. Fields as pastor of St. John Parish, Memphis
Due to my error, I neglected to announce that Reverend Robert H. Fields was appointed pastor of St. John Parish in Memphis, effective 20 June 2023. This appointment is in addition to his role as pastor of St. Michael Parish, Kahoka and the Shrine of St. Patrick Parish, St. Patrick.
-Benjamin Roodhouse, Chancellor
Decree Implementing Parish Finance Council Policy
The following decree is also posted on the diocesan website at this link. A link to the related policy will be shared once it is promulgated online.
Canon 537 of the Code of Canon Law establishes that, “in each parish there is to be a finance council which is governed, in addition to universal law, by norms issued by the diocesan bishop and in which the Christian faithful, selected according to these same norms, are to assist the pastor in the administration of the goods of the parish.”
In order to provide clear guidance on the establishment and constitution of parish finance councils throughout the Diocese of Jefferson City, I wish to implement this Parish Finance Council Policy. This policy explains the function and makeup of the parish finance council, and also provides a set of directives and guidelines as to how it should assist the pastor in the administration of the temporal goods of the parish. Having consulted with the Presbyteral Council, the Diocesan Finance Council, the Chief Financial officer, and other concerned parties;
I therefore,
DECREE
that this Parish Finance Council Policy shall be promulgated by being published on the diocesan website and that it will take effect on 1 January 2024, all things to the contrary notwithstanding. This policy constitutes particular law for the Diocese of Jefferson City and as such, is mandatory. I furthermore order that a copy of this policy be sent to all concerned parties.
Given at the Chancery on the 24th day of August in the Year of Our Lord 2023.
Decree Instituting Diocesan Instruction on Transparency in Fundraising
The following decree is also posted on the diocesan website at this link. A link to the related policy will be shared once it is promulgated online.
According to canon 222 §1 of the Code of Canon Law, “the Christian faithful are obliged to assist with the needs of the Church so that the Church has what is necessary for divine worship, for the works of the apostolate and of charity, and for the decent support of ministers.” As a part of this obligation they possess “the right to donate temporal goods for the benefit of the Church” (canon 1261).
In addition to their regular tithing, the Christian faithful also give generously in response to fundraisers by, or on behalf of, Catholic groups and institutions. According to the Code of Canon Law and the Complementary Norm for canon 1262, implemented by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops on 15 August 2007, it is my role as Bishop of Jefferson City to exercise vigilance over fundraising that occurs within the territory entrusted to my care. Seeing that the law has not, up to this time, been routinely enforced, I now wish to present this Instruction on Transparency in Fundraising. Having consulted the Diocesan Finance Council, the Presbyteral Council, the Diocesan Pastoral Council, the Superintendent of Schools, the Director of Stewardship, the Chancellor, and other concerned parties in according with canon 50, I believe this instruction will give clear guidance on how fundraising efforts are to be conducted within the Diocese of Jefferson City.
I therefore,
DECREE
that this instruction shall be promulgated by being published on the diocesan website. This instruction shall take effect 1 January 2024, all things to the contrary notwithstanding. I furthermore order that a copy of this policy be sent to all concerned parties.
Given at the Chancery on the 24th day of August in the Year of Our Lord 2023.
Mass attendance counts continue
Mass attendance counts are continuing in the Diocese of Jefferson City for at least the next 1 to 2 years. The decision was made by the Presbyteral Council during their June 6 meeting. The counting had been set to end on July 31. However, the counts were deemed useful to the Pastoral Planning process and it was decided that parishes should continue to collect these statistics.
All parishes should continue counting and reporting their Mass attendance.
The rules for reporting will remain the same. Parishes are encouraged to continue using the online form to report their counts: https://diojeffcity.org/mass-attendance/
Save the Date: Parish Secretaries’ Workshop
The next Parish Secretaries’ Workshop will be held via Zoom on Wed., September 20, 2023, beginning at 10 a.m. and concluding no later than noon. The Zoom link will be posted closer to the date; in the meantime, mark this training opportunity on your calendar and send us topics or questions that you would like us to cover! Please send topics or questions to Bernadette Adams at badams@diojeffcity.org.
It’s time to schedule Confirmation dates
It is time to schedule Confirmation dates for Fall of 2023 through Fall of 2024. To complete the form for scheduling, please go to diojeffcity.org/confirmation. This should be completed by August 31, 2023. The confirmation page includes a memo with instructions for the form and an updated guide for the confirmation ceremony.
Share in bulletins, emails, social media, and websites
Women in our See City parishes are invited to a presentation and listening session hosted at parishes throughout our deanery by our parish core team members. We hope all women will attend one of the sessions and learn about what is being planned to help grow and support women in our diocese and also share with us how we can better serve your needs!
A Walk Through the Mass
The Cathedral of St. Joseph will be hosting “A Walk Through The Mass” with Fr. Paul Clark on Wednesday September 6 at 5:30 p.m. in the Cathedral with dinner in Cana Hall. Please consider attending this presentation to get a clearer view of what happens at the highest form of Prayer with Our Lord: The Eucharist. Details to follow. All are welcome. For more information, contact: Julie.g@cathedraljc.org
Catholic Charities PEACE events
“Love faces a vast field of work and the Church is eager to make her contribution with her social doctrine, which concerns the whole person and is addressed to all people.”
– Compendium of Social Doctrine of the Church
Join Catholic Charities for an afternoon of faith formation, fellowship, and information on how Catholic Charities can help equip you and your parish to meet the needs of others through works of charity and mercy. With six event options spanning the diocese and host parishes in each deanery, we look forward to collecting together in an atmosphere of prayer to explore how Catholic Charities can best equip individuals, families, and parishes to carry out works of charity for their local communities.
What to expect:
Dynamic speakers, informative presentations, afternoon snacks, and an opportunity to connect with others in your community and across your deanery who are involved in stewardship, social ministries, and more. We hope you’ll join!
RSVP for the event most convenient for you at: cccnmo.diojeffcity.org/peace
Upcoming trainings for PSR Teachers, DREs and Youth Ministers
PSR Teacher Workshop will be September 9 from 9 a.m. – noon at the Chancery. We will spend time on the following: Vocation of a Catechist; Ways to incorporate Truth, Beauty and Goodness in the classroom; Helping Young People Fall in Love with the Eucharist. To register click here. If your parish is interested in hosting please contact us at mmertes@diojeffcity.org or maureenquinn@diojeffcity.org. These can be personalized to your community.
DRE & YM Workshops will be held Tuesday, September 12, 2023, from 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Chancery. Topics include: Gradually Understanding the Eucharist, Ways to incorporate the Liturgical Calendar in our ministry, Domestic Church and the Eucharist, Time to Share, Office Updates and More. To register click here.
Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a Montessori style religious education program. That means we have beautiful materials kids and adults can touch, move and manipulate to learn and wonder about God through scripture and the sacraments.
Join us Saturday, October 28 from 9am to 4:30pm at Newman Parish in Columbia for a workshop on CGS and the Eucharist and discover what CGS can bring to you and your community. Click here to Register.
Attention all engaged couples, MPFs and pastors:
2023 Pre-Cana Conference dates & locations:
- September 23rd @ Chancery: 2207 W Main St, Jefferson City, MO 65109
2023 Engaged Encounter dates & location are to be determined.
Sept. 24: Celebrating Fr. Dan Merz
You are warmly invited to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Fr. Dan Merz’s ordination to the priesthood. A celebration is planned for Sept. 24 at Newman Parish in Columbia. If you are able to come, please click here to RSVP for planning purposes. Would love to pray together and enjoy a meal.
Women’s Ministry fall events
All women of our diocese are invited to attend our diocesan wide fall events. There are two opportunities to gather. Come to one/come to both! Join us for a Ladies Night out Friday evening or our all day retreat on Saturday. Both feature author and syndicated talk show host, Teresa Tomeo. We hope to see you there!
Eventos en Español
Curso Introductorio de PFN: Sagrado Corazón, Columbia (16 de septiembre, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.)
Las parejas aprenderán sobre cómo concebir o posponer embarazos de una manera natural, sin los dañinos efectos de todos los métodos artificiales anticonceptivos. Es un curso gratuito, ideal para todas las parejas en preparación matrimonial, casadas o que están viviendo juntos.
Para información y registrarse contacte a Enrique o Cristhia Castro al 573-680-3650 / 501-454-8308 o por correo electrónico a ecastro@diojeffcity.org / cmguzman10@gmail.com.
Retiro Parroquial de ‘Buena Administración’: St. Patrick | San Patricio, Sedalia (17 de septiembre, 9am-5pm)
El objetivo de estos retiros es ayudar a toda la comunidad parroquial aprender y reflexionar sobre la ‘Buena Administración’, la cual es nuestra respuesta agradecida como discípulos cristianos a compartir todo lo que Dios nos ha dado para compartirlo con los demás.
Para más información contacte al Diácono Enrique Castro al (573) 680-3650 en su celular o en WhatsApp o por correo electrónico a ecastro@diojeffcity.org
Formación de Ministerios de Música – Parte I: Saint Peter | San Pedro, Marshall (23 de septiembre, 9am-12pm)
Todos los músicos litúrgicos, coros, ministerios de música y ministerios de alabanza están invitados a esta formación. Es una oportunidad formarse y obtener conocimiento y herramientas prácticas para poder brindar un mejor servicio a través de ese gran regalo de Dios, la música.
Para más información contacte a Liliana Ruano al (660) 202-0317 o por correo electrónico a nellymruanorn6@gmail.com.
Picnic de Colores: Saint Patrick | San Patricio, Sedalia (24 de septiembre, 1pm-3pm)
La finalidad del “Picnic de Colores” es reunir a todos los cursillistas y familias en general para convivir en un ambiente fraterno y de alegría. Por medio de juegos, actividades de diversión y comida se disfruta de la compañía de todos y de la naturaleza que Dios ha creado.
Para más información contacte a Maria Gomez al (660) 620-3405 o Raul Lopez al (660) 287-8920.
Congreso Diocesano: Multipurpose Building-Saline County Fairgrounds, Marshall (7 de octubre, 8:30am-6pm, y 8 de octubre, 8:30am-4pm)
El Congreso Diocesano es un evento organizado por el Comité Diocesano de la Renovación Carismática Católica. Es un evento de gracia y bendición para toda la comunidad y las familias Hispanas de la diócesis. Por medio de la alabanza, oración, enseñanza y fraternidad que se vive durante todo el evento, se fortalecen y sanan las familias, los servidores y las comunidades. Este es un evento único y especial que nadie puede perderse.
Para más información contacte Ilsi Palacios al (316) 530-1004 o por correo electrónico a ComiteDiocesanoRCCH@gmail.com.
Retiro para Preparación de Quinceañera: San Pedro, Marshall (14 de octubre, 10am-4pm)
PEREGRINACIÓN A ROMA Y TIERRA SANTA del 20 de noviembre al 1 de diciembre del 2023 – Diócesis de Jefferson City (Pilgrimage in Spanish)
¡Acompañe al Padre Cesar Anicama en una gran peregrinación a Roma y Tierra Santa! Volaremos a Roma para visitar sus basílicas, y lugares culturales, audiencia con el Papa, Asís y más. Después volaremos a Tierra Santa donde caminaremos por los lugares santos donde Jesús vivió, incluyendo Tiberíades, Belén, Jerusalén, Galilea y más.
Para hacer una reservación, póngase en contacto con Canterbury Pilgrimages & Tours HOY al: 1-800-653-0017. También por WhatsApp/textos/llamadas al (347) 463-3998.
Contacto local: Diacono Enrique Castro (573) 680-3650.
Employment opportunities
Sacred Heart School in Sedalia MO has an opening for: Communication and Technology Director. This is a full-time, exempt position. All interested persons should complete the application and contact the Principal, Nancy Manning at nmanning@gogremlins.com.
Responsibilities Include:
- Communications (website management, social media, event photography, videos, create graphics, newsletter writing, etc.).
- Technology (Google, PC, FACTS logins, copy machines, monitor solar panels, daily tech issues, audio system, e-rate management, teacher tech training, update technology, google domain management, iPad, Chromebook cart management, tech security, etc.). See this add on Indeed.
The Chancery Office of the Diocese of Jefferson City is seeking a full-time (30-40 hours/week) custodian/maintenance professional to personally clean and coordinate maintenance services. Daily shifts to start in the early afternoon.
General duties include:
- Emptying trash and cleaning of all offices, restrooms, and public areas
- Minor household maintenance (unstopping toilets, changing light bulbs, painting, moving furniture, changing sink faucets, etc.)
- Hard surface floor cleaning and spot cleaning carpet
- Changing HVAC filters
- Ordering cleaning supplies and paper products
- Maintaining sidewalks, stairways and walkways in inclement weather
- Coordinating maintenance for other types of repairs; plumbing, lawn care, parking lot maintenance, pest control, etc.
The Diocese of Jefferson City is seeking an experienced administrative assistant to support the Director of Parish Services. This individual will need to be proficient with data entry and have excellent skills with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Occasional travel to parishes within the diocese may be required with the Director (no personal car is necessary). This position is open to candidates of all faiths.
Qualified candidates will be asked to complete a skills test online. The employer offers a full range of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability plus a matching 403b plan.
Applicants are encouraged to apply on Indeed.com!
St. Thomas More Newman Center in Columbia is seeking a Director of Music. Click here for more details and application information.
Immaculate Heart of Mary Child Development Center is seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our team as Early Childhood Center Staff. A successful candidate is committed to providing a safe, Christ-like environment for the children, where they are loved, safe, and encouraged to learn. As part of our center, you will play a crucial role in providing a nurturing and educational environment for young children. Your primary responsibilities will include engaging in age-appropriate activities, ensuring the safety and well-being of children, promoting their social and cognitive development, and maintaining a positive atmosphere within the center. Starting pay is $15.00 per hour. Click here for more information.
Seeking a Highly Skilled Administrative Assistant: The Administrative Assistant for the Stewardship office is responsible for assisting the Director and Associate Director in implementing the Bishop’s vision of spirituality of stewardship throughout the Diocese of Jefferson City, which covers 38 counties in central and northeastern Missouri.
- Prepares presentation materials and strategic briefings for deans and pastors
- General administrative and office management duties
- Meticulously plans, coordinates and executes events and activities
- Provides administrative support for the department
- Works closely with the Director of Stewardship and Associate Director of Stewardship as a team partner to educate parishioners on the spirituality of stewardship and convey the impact and importance of supporting their parish and sharing their gifts for the common good
- Ability to travel within the diocese (no overnight travel); fleet vehicle provided for day trips
Practicing Catholic in good standing is preferred. Bachelor’s degree is preferred. Event planning and management is desired.
We are seeking a confident, competent individual to manage the stewardship office. Please apply through our job posting on Indeed.com or send resume to hrdir@diojeffcity.org.
Holy Family Parish in Hannibal is seeking a Director of Religious Education and Youth Minister. Key responsibilities include:
- Assist the pastor in the responsibility for the Catholic faith formation for parish youth and adults
- Implements the Bishop’s confirmation preparation policy
- Organizes, schedules and oversees religious education in the parish
- Administers a formation program for catechists that leads to certification and tracks completion
- In cooperation with Diocesan Director of Religious Education and Youth Minister, orders approved textbooks, liturgy materials and other works that complement the religious education efforts of the parish
- Provides resources and programs for adult formation
A Bachelor’s degree in theology or religious education is preferred. The pastor is willing to consider either one (1) full-time candidate or possibly two (2) part-time individuals. Resumes can be sent directly to Fr. Alex Gabriel, Holy Family Parish, 218 S. Maple Avenue, Hannibal, MO 63401 or applicants can apply on Indeed.com.
Our Lady of Lourdes Interparish School Positions:
- Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church is currently accepting job applications for a Pre-K through 5th Grade Religious Education Director. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: the administration of the Religious Education Program for Pre-School through Fifth Grade, the preparation program for the First Celebration of the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist, and Summer Vacation Bible School; the administration of the Safe Environment Compliance Program; collaborating with the other parish directors of faith formation programs and the Diocesan Faith Formation Office in providing faith formation opportunities for the parish. The position is 32 hours per week and includes benefits. Must be an active, practicing Catholic. Experience in parish faith formation is preferred but not required. Please send a resume to Fr. Chris Cordes at frchris@ourladyoflourdes.org if interested. Call 573-445-7915 if you have questions.
- Cafeteria Supervisor: OLLIS is looking for three adults (parents, grandparents, friends) who like children and want to make extra money. Qualifications include love of children, practicing Catholic preferred, ability to lift 50 lbs., and standing on feet for extended periods. This is a position that follows the students’ calendar. You are off when students are off. The essential duties include supervising students and assisting them with their needs during lunch, such as opening things, sweeping up the floor, and washing tables between shifts. This would be fun if you could find two other friends to join you. We would love to see a group that can help us with our ROAR expectations and makes our dining experience something students continue to enjoy. Hours are 10:30-1:30. If interested, please email Elaine Hassemer at ehassemer@ollisk8.org.
- Speech Pathologist (Full-Time): This position is to improve the speech and/or language of students identified with speech and/or language disabilities or students with speech and/or language delays, which interfere with the child’s ability to derive full benefit from the educational program. QUALIFICATIONS — Minimum: Advanced degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Disorders; Missouri Professional Licensure in Speech-Language Pathology, Eligible for a Speech-Language Pathology Student Services Certificate; Effective human relations and communication skills. Preferred: Previous experience as a speech-language pathologist in a school is preferred. The ideal candidate will have a professional and friendly demeanor and be an active practicing Catholic. Pay based on experience. If interested, please email Elaine Hassemer at ehassemer@ollisk8.org