Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) – If you are not a Catholic, but attracted to the Catholic Church, or a Catholic needing to complete your Sacraments of Initiation (Eucharist or Confirmation), Inquiry is just as it sounds. It is a time set aside for asking questions and exploring God’s call in an informal setting. There are no commitments or obligations required, only questions answered and information shared.  The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is “a gradual process that takes place within the community of the faithful.” The length of time of the process varies according to individual need, experience, readiness and commitment.  If you, or someone you know is interested in more information, please call Cathy Drake at the Office of Religious Education at (908) 964-7533.

HEALTH DIRECTIVES - The tragic events surrounding Terri Schiavo demonstrate how important it is for individuals to select someone to serve as health care proxy, to execute an Advance Directive (sometimes referred to as a "living will") and to discuss their wishes with their health care proxy and members of their family. The Catholic Bishops of New Jersey have prepared Advance Directives for Health Care: A Catholic Perspective, which is available on the Catholic Conference website – http://www.njcathconf.com/Documents/AdvDirforHC.htm. If you do not have internet access, you may obtain the document from the Diocesan Respect Life Office (732) 388-8211 or through the NJ Catholic Conference, 211 N. Warren St., Trenton N.J. 08618; or 609-599-2110.

Post Abortion Healing for men and women. If interested, call the Archdiocesan Respect Life Office (732) 388-8211. All calls are strictly confidential. Information of Rachel's Vineyard Retreat can be found at: www.rachelsvineyard.org

CRISIS PREGNANCY HELP - CCS - Pat Chiarello - (201) 246-7379

Counseling for Abortion Alternatives: Any woman who is pregnant can turn for help to the pro-life movement. She never has to feel that abortion is the only option. She can contact:
 

CATHOLIC CHARITIES of the Archdiocese of Newark – Catholic Charities, Cranford has funds for deliverable fuels including oil, kerosene, propane, coal, and wood. Also available are applications for New Jersey Shares for utility assistance. For more information please call (908) 497-3966.

PROJECT RACHEL - Post Abortion Reconciliation for those impacted by abortion is available by contacting the Respect Life Office of the Archdiocese of Newark at (732) 388-8211.

MINISTRY to SEPARATED & DIVORCED CATHOLICS meet every Thursday at 7:30pm at Holy Spirit in Drexel Hall. For information call John at 908-964-1683 or Betty at 908-686-0457.

Reminder to parents of small children: the “Children's Chapel” has been made available for the use of parents with small children. It is comfortable and allows the children to be “vocal” without disturbing or distracting the worshipers in Church. The room is located off the Morris Avenue transept and the door is marked “Children's Chapel”. Thank you for your consideration.

Compassionate Care of NJ – is seeking mature, caring individuals interested in providing in-home care. They provide care to the elderly who wish to stay in their home but need support with the essentials of daily living. For more information, please call (732) 450-3690.

PARISH REGISTRATION:  In order for us to testify to your ability for sponsorship in Baptism, Confirmation or witness at a Catholic Marriage - for recommendations for positions, schools or character references, it is necessary to be a registered member of Holy Spirit for a minimum of three months.  We cannot give recommendations if we do not know you.  Registering is the best way to acquire a sense of belonging to our Parish Community.  Young adults of working age should register independently of their parents.  To help us serve you better, kindly notify the parish office if you change your address.

COMMON COURTESY - Beeping pagers and ringing cell phones have no place sounding off at Mass. Please silence all equipment before you enter the church. As the weather heats up, please remember that we are here together in Church and not at the gym or poolside. God sees and knows all about each of us, we don’t necessarily need to see and know all. Please dress appropriately respecting yourself, one another, and the Lord. Thank you.

“HOPE ON WHEELS” helps Seniors who suffer from respiratory disorders, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, has a mobility limitation and difficulty in propelling a standard wheelchair, to receive a power chair or scooter paid primarily by Medicare. For eligibility information on “Hope on Wheels” please call 1-866-631-3028.

HELPING HANDS - Holy Spirit's HELPING HANDS urgently needs weekly food donations for the many poor families in Union and Elizabeth.  Please donate regularly to this worthy charity.  Thank you.

CHANGING YOUR ADDRESS? If you intend to move or leave the parish, please notify the rectory, 687-3327, as soon as possible with your change of address. This will help to defray our return postage expenses. Thank you!

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Holy Spirit Parish - 971 Suburban Road - Union, NJ 07083

www.holyspiritunion.org