New Parishioner Information



	Table of Contents History of the Parish………………………………………………………………4-5 Worship Schedule……………………………………………………………….. 6 Sacraments and Ministries……………………………………………………… 7-8 Sacrament of Matrimony Lectors Altar Servers Music Sacrament of Reconciliation Altar Servers Cantors Eucharistic Ministers Infant Baptism Choir Ministers of Hospitality Nursery Prayer & Petitions Sacristan Parish Life……………………………………………………………………….. 9-11 Annual Events Knights of Columbus Singles 30-50 Only Bridge Club Ladies of St. Agnes Singles 50+ Bulletin MOMS Sunday Coffee & Donuts Building Committee Natural Family Planning St. John 50+ Group CCW Parish Life Center Welcoming Committee Craft Group Pinochle Social Concerns……………………………………………………………………12-13 Aramatheans Disabled & Handicapped Respect Life Bereavement Committee Drug & Alcohol Abuse Respite Blood Bank Homebound Retrouvaille Program Calling & Caring Jamaica Mission St. Vincent de Paul Society Collier Pregnancy Center Memorial Garden Education & Spiritual Formation………………………………………………..14-16 Children Teens Adults Pre-K Sunday School LifeTeen Bible Study Religious Education LifeTeen Mass Centering Prayer Group Sacrament of the Eucharist Core Group Girl Talk Sacrament of Confirmation Men’s Club Catechetical Instruction for Prayer Group Religious Ed Teachers Renew RCIA Returning Catholic Program Rice School for Pastoral Ministry Women on a Walk (W.O.W.) History of the Parish Significant growth in North Naples spurred the need for a new parish in 1988. Weekend liturgies were celebrated in the Naples Park Elementary cafeteria while funds were being raised to build a new church. A dedicated “folding chair brigade” volunteered each Sunday to unload seats for the service. Over 300 volunteers assisted with the building campaign that was launched on March 18, 1990, and the campaign was blessed with pledges totaling nearly $1.6 million. A groundbreaking ceremony commenced with construction that lasted two years. Despite temporary facilities, however, the membership continued to grow rapidly. Outreach programs, ministries, and committee work allowed parishioners to assist people in the community and initiate social activities for members of all ages. On Christmas Eve 1992, the congregation welcomed the birth of Christ and celebrated the birth of the new church. Eager to complete the vision, the members began planning for phase two—the Parish Life Center. The 23,600 square foot facility was dedicated in March 1998. Created for a variety of ministries and events, the Parish Life Center was divided into the following areas: large central assembly space, multi-functional classrooms, library and meeting room, commercial size kitchen, office spaces, and a patio. Supporting the principles of Vatican II, the people of the parish of St. John the Evangelist Church in Naples held a unique vision for their church’s structure. They created a church that encouraged interaction and community spirit; a church that would make people feel welcome. Believing that God is not limited to a specific place within the church, they designed a large gathering space where individuals are encouraged to become participants in the Mass, and not merely spectators. Guests and new members continue to be captivated by the stone artwork above the altar. The abstract formation represents the shattered stone at the entrance to Christ’s tomb. The image created by the intersecting lines of the broken stones form the sign of the cross. The cross represents the sin of the people, and the shattered stones symbolize God’s grace. Contrasts of rough, unfinished stone and smooth polished elements throughout the church’s interior reinforce the theme of God’s perfection and human imperfection. The numerous liturgical appointments incorporate the traditional symbols of the church and align them with the liturgical renewal called for by the Second Vatican Council. Timeline February 1988 The Church Community originated in North Naples and split off from the mother Parish. October 1988 The Church was canonically established as a parish. Father Thomas J. Glackin was appointed as first pastor. November 1988 St. John the Evangelist was selected as the patron saint. Weekend liturgies were held at Naples Park Elementary cafeteria. The Parish offices occupied leased space located on 97^th Avenue North. Easter 1989 St. John the Evangelist Church’s first Easter services served 1,523 people and collected $9,764. Summer 1989 Land was acquired and town hall meetings were held to solicit input from church members. March 18, 1990 The building campaign was launched officially, and pledges of $1,596,346 were received. May 1990 A sign announcing “New Site of St. John the Evangelist” was erected. December 27, 1990 The groundbreaking ceremony was held on the Feast Day of St. John the Evangelist. Construction was delayed due to nesting tortoises. December 24, 1992 The first Mass was held in the sanctuary on Christmas Eve at 4 p.m. January 1993 The administrative offices were organized and staff relocated. Phase 2 of fund-raising began for the Parish Life Center. March 1993 The church was officially dedicated. Worship Schedule St. John the Evangelist St. Agnes Daily Mass Saturday Masses Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Saturday Vigil Mass 4:00 p.m. 12:00 p.m. Mass during Lent Saturday Masses Sunday Masses Saturday, 8:00 a.m. May through December Saturday Vigil Masses, 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m. (Spanish) Sunday Masses January through April 7:00 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. 7:30a.m.,9:00a.m.,10:30a.m. & 12:15p.m. Life Teen Sunday Mass, 6:00 p.m. St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church St. Agnes Chapel 625 111^th Avenue North 5633 Strand Blvd. Suite 317 Naples, Florida 34108-1825 Naples, Fl. 34110 (239) 566-8740 Fax (239) 566-9117 (239) 592-1949 E-mail: STJOHNEV1@AOL.COM Masses are currently being held @ Oak www.saintjohntheevangelist.com Ridge Middle School. Effective 3/15/03 will be held @ Gulf Coast High School Rev. Thomas Glackin, Pastor Rev. Arnold Zebrowski, Associate, Rev. Richard Mueller, Associate Rev. Jack Donahue, Associate, Rev. Al McPartland, Associate Rev. Msgr. Robert Coll, Weekend Associate Rev. Jerry Kaywell, Weekend Associate Rev. Steven Olds, Weekend Associate Rev. Deacon Al Groh Rev. Deacon Norman LaLone Rev. Deacon Ralph Catanese Rev. Deacon Frank Loafman Rev. Deacon Jerry Staff Members Business Manager Scott Schlossberg Parish Secretary Donna Young Parish Secretary (St. Agnes) Laurie Smith Parish Receptionist Trista Schlossberg Cantors Todd Peterson Ellie Westendorf Jen Kirker Life Teen/Youth Minister Stephanie Woodworth Music Minister Paul Todd Music Assistant / Website Deb Vale RCIA Ashley Ryan Religious Education Dr. Roberta Horton Religious Education Assistant Sarah Ferrero Sacristan Peg Buckley Individuals who are interested in fulfilling their Christian service by volunteering for a specific committee or participating in various groups should contact the church office for the most current information. Sacraments & Ministries Sacrament of Matrimony *Marriage Dialogue Preparation* This three-night program is designed to prepare engaged couples for a lifelong commitment to their marriage. Couples gain insight into the sacredness of their union that is filled with joy and many challenges. Couples who are planning to be married are encouraged to attend this program. *Worldwide Marriage Encounter* Weekend retreats provide an opportunity for married couples to acquire effective communication skills and explore ways to reestablish intimacy. Couples of any age and denomination may participate in this beneficial program. Sacrament of Reconciliation Individuals may receive this sacrament thirty minutes prior to each Mass. Eucharistic Ministers Parishioners who are trained in Eucharistic Ministry assist at Masses and funerals. In addition, they share the Eucharist at North Collier Hospital and visit nursing homes and the homebound. Ministers of Hospitality (Greeters) A friendly smile is all that is required for this type of ministry. St. John’s greeters welcome members and visitors to church and assist with seating the congregation. Sacristan The sacristan prepares the Church for the celebration of Mass, oversees the care of liturgical vessels and vestments, and secures the building after Mass. The sacristan attends a training session and is committed to responsible service. Lectors Church members who possess strong speaking abilities and enjoy sharing their faith by delivering God’s word as a lector will benefit from this ministry. Lectors assist at all masses, funerals and special services. Training is required prior to commencement of this ministry. Altar Servers Youth who are interested in serving the church are encouraged to volunteer for altar service. Students who have completed their first Holy Communion are eligible to be servers. A brief instructional session is required. Infant Baptism Parents must be registered members of St. John the Evangelist Parish. Families seeking the baptismal rite should notify the parish office two months in advance. The Diocese requires that the parents attend a baptism class. Nursery (Infant thru Pre-K) Professional care is provided for newborns to children age 2 during each weekend mass. The nursery is located to the left of the church foyer. Members interested in volunteering to assist in the nursery should contact the parish office. Music Music is an integral part of the Mass at St. John the Evangelist Church. Vocals and accompaniments ranging from the traditional organ to contemporary synthesizer create a spiritually uplifting celebration of the Word. Cantors Throughout the mass cantors lead the congregation through the liturgy and songs of praise. Cantors are also available for a variety of engagements including anniversaries, weddings, and funerals. Choir The choir is a very important aspect of the music ministry. The choir meets from the middle of October until after Easter. They perform at the 9 a.m. Mass & the 11 a.m. Mass. All members of the congregation are welcome to join the choir. Practices are held each Wednesday evening. Singers and musicians are welcome to join. Prayer & Petitions Individuals who are in need of support through prayer should contact the parish office. Prayer requests are offered at daily and weekend masses, broadcast on Christian radio stations, listed in the church bulletin, and received via the telephone. Parish Life Annual Events Throughout the year, church members enjoy a variety of events ranging from social to athletic. Two golf tournaments are held each year with the proceeds benefiting various Catholic charities. Other events include: Pastor Appreciation Day, St. Patrick’s Day Party, New Year’s Eve Celebration, Polish Festival, October Festival, Holiday Bazaar & Bake Sale, and a Fashion Show. Mexican-American Day, bus trips, cruises, and a variety of events are held each year. Bridge Club Bridge is played every Thursday in the Parish Life Center beginning at 12:30 p.m. Parishioners and non-parishioners are welcome. Cash prizes are awarded, with proceeds benefiting various Catholic charities. Bulletin Announcements and advertising appear in the weekly bulletin. Newsworthy items should be directed to the parish office. The deadline is Monday at noon. Call Donna Young, 566-8740 or fax 566-9117. Building Committee The work of this committee is focused on planning the new parish, St. Agnes Mission Church, in the northeast section of Collier County. In addition, the committee is reviewing plans for extra parking and other facility enhancements. Council of Catholic Women (CCW) All Catholic women are eligible for membership in CCW whose mission is to support, empower and educate all catholic women in spirituality, leadership and service. CCW meets on the second Monday of each month for an evening meal and spiritual enrichment. The group supports many ministries of St. John the Evangelist Church and also hosts several fund-raisers throughout the year. Craft Group Endearing friendships are the result of many hours spent working on fun projects together. Crafters meet each Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon. All types of handmade goods are created for the annual bazaar. Novices as well as experienced crafters are welcome. Knights of Columbus For over 100 years, this international society of Catholic men and their families has promoted charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. The St. John Council organizes several community projects and events each year. The Knights of Columbus provides a hands-on way of becoming involved and performing services for God’s people. Ladies of St. Agnes Meet every Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the Waterways recreation center. New members are welcome. MOMS Ministry of Mothers Sharing group meets for eight-week sessions. Child care is provided as mothers gather to share prayer, support, and outreach to others. Natural Family Planning Theory and methods of natural family planning are introduced and discussed in relation to God’s will and the Christian faith. Parish Life Center This 23,600 square foot facility was designed to host numerous celebrations and activities that are an essential part of St. John’s vibrant community. The main gathering area is capable of accommodating up to 700 guests. Meetings and classes can be held in ten rooms designed for small groups, and the library is ideal for intimate gatherings. A commercial kitchen is fully equipped for caterers. Space can be rented for private functions. Parish offices and administration are also located in the Parish Life Center. For information regarding the facility, contact Scott Schlossberg, Business Manager at 566-1678. Pinochle A lively group of pinochle players meets every Tuesday at 12:45 p.m. in the Parish Life Center. Singles 30-50 Only Participants gather for social events and spiritual renewal. Regular meeting times are the first and third Wednesday of each month at Ruby Tuesdays in Coastland Center. Singles 50+ General meeting is held on the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Parish Life Center library. Dances take place each Wednesday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Elks Club on Radio Road in Naples. Sunday Morning Coffee & Donuts The Parish family enjoys beverages and baked goods following the Masses on Sunday mornings. This time of special fellowship allows members and guests an opportunity to share and offer support to one another in the spirit of Christ. St. John 50+ Group Individuals who are 50 and older meet each Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Life Center. The group enjoys a variety of presentations and plans several interesting day-trips each year. Welcoming Committee Committee members contact new parishioners and provide information about the church community. Social Concerns Aramatheans The Arimatheans, named after Joseph of Arimethea who gave his tomb after the crucifixion, volunteer to attend funeral liturgies. Their willing presence ministers to those who are suffering the loss of a loved one. Bereavement Committee Caring individuals assist grieving families by providing transportation, childcare, house-sitting services, light meals, and spiritual comfort. Blood Bank A specific blood bank has been established for St. John’s parishioners. Those in need of blood and those who are willing to donate blood should contact the parish office. Calling & Caring Members of this ministry reach out to those who, for whatever reason, are no longer going to church. Volunteers are trained to help absent Catholics reaffirm their faith and return to the St. John the Evangelist community. All communication is completely confidential. For more information, contact Deacon Al Groh, 566-8740. Collier Pregnancy Center The non-profit, pro life service organization is staffed by volunteers and funded by donations. The center offers free pregnancy testing, confidential counseling, education, medical care referrals, financial assistance, maternity necessities, and a resource library. Disabled & Handicapped Transportation and other services are available to those in need. Drug & Alcohol Abuse Counseling referrals are available for individuals seeking assistance for substance abuse problems. Homebound Eucharistic Ministers are available at any time to bring Holy Communion to the homebound. Jamaica Mission The Jamaica Outreach Program assists the people of our sister parish in Kingston, Jamaica. The project was initiated in 1997, and since that time parishioners and friends generously have donated their time, skills and funds necessary to support this program that provides for the medical, educational and spiritual needs of this parish. Memorial Garden A peaceful memorial garden adjacent to the church provides a final resting-place for cremated remains. Respect Life Members of this group respond to alerts from the Diocese regarding legislative issues that affect the unborn, elderly, capital punishment, and euthanasia. Participants organize displays and disseminate information. Respite Volunteers assisting the respite program provide compassionate care and assistance for family members who are caring for ill or frail loved ones. Retrouvaille Program This service provides a lifeline for members who are suffering from marital problems. All calls are confidential. St. Vincent de Paul Society This program assists families in the Parish area who are in need. The members’ goal is “To make a friend, be a friend, and bring that friend to Christ.” The thrift store located on Davis Boulevard sells donated items ranging from clothing to furniture. Income from the sales is used to help pay the bills of those with financial problems. Meals on Wheels and Migrant Outreach are also supported by the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Volunteers are needed to staff the thrift store, deliver meals, and provide personal assistance. Education & Spiritual Formation Children Pre-K Sunday School Our youngest parish members, ages 3 ½ -5 years old, receive fun-loving introduction to the scriptures each Sunday during the 11 a.m. Mass in rooms 7 & 8 in the Parish Life Center Religious Education (Children K-12) Those who have a special interest in guiding young hearts and minds through the journey of Christianity will enjoy this ministry. Instructional training and materials are provided. Sacrament of Eucharist/Reconciliation/Confirmation Preparation for the Sacraments of First Holy Communion and First Reconciliation is provided as part of the religious education classes. Instruction begins in the 1^st grade. Sacrament of Confirmation Confirmation preparation for students begins in the 7^th grade with reception of the sacrament in 8^th grade. Classes meet every Sunday, Wednesday and Thursday. High school students attend each Wednesday for one year. Catechetical Instruction for Religious Ed Teachers Adult volunteers are needed as leaders or assistants in the weekly education and sacramental preparation classes. Instruction for teachers is provided through the religious education department. Teens LifeTeen This comprehensive youth ministry program has a strong focus on the Eucharist. It is a Catholic-centered program open to teens of all faiths. Starting with a Teen Mass, high school students are placed in an environment where they have the opportunity to enter into a relationship with God through Jesus Christ and His church. Contact Stephanie Woolworth, Youth Minister, 566-2751. LifeTeen Mass LifeTeen Mass is held each Sunday at 6 p.m. This energized service is open to every age group. A nursery is provided for children under the age of six. Core Group Core members for Life Teen coordinate Teen Life Night activities and model Christian living. Contact Stephanie Woodworth, Youth Minister, 566-2751. Adults Bible Study On Monday mornings at 8:30 a.m. Dr. Dunham and bible study members explore the letters of Paul. On Fridays at 8:30 a.m. Dr. Dunham unravels the meanings of the readings for the forthcoming weekend mass. The group meets in the Parish Life Center, rooms 3-4. Centering Prayer Group This unique method of prayer provides a powerful, yet restful experience. Members can learn about centering prayer and participate in a group setting each Monday at 5:15 p.m. in the Parish Life Center, room 5. Girl Talk Girl Talk is a faith-sharing group for women of all ages and denominations. The small group provides uplifting and positive interaction that assists in strengthening faith and commitment to God. The group meets each Thursday from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Men’s Club The Men’s Club organizes and implements social functions for the parish including, the Summer Picnic, Octoberfest, and the Children’s Christmas Party. The group meets on the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Parish Life Center. Prayer Group This prayer group meets on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. in the church to pray for the various needs of the community. Renew Parishioners meet in small groups weekly to reflect on scripture, share fellowship, and renew our commitment to God and each other. Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) This program is designed for adults who are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith or reestablishing their spiritual commitment. Participants meet regularly for study, discussion, and prayer. Returning Catholic Program Adults who are seeking the comfort and support of a renewed spiritual life may “come home” and return to the church at any time. Deacon, Al Groh, offers an inspiring program to welcome back those who are interested in returning to the Catholic Church. Rice School for Pastoral Ministry This institution provides the theological education and spiritual formation for those called to serve as ministers in the Catholic Church. A Masters Program associated with Barry University or a Diocesan Diploma is offered at convenient locations. For more information visit www.riceschool.org or call (941) 766-7334. W.O.W. (Women on a Walk) Prayer, scripture and friendship intermingle in this dynamic group that meets on Thursday mornings from 9:45-11:45 a.m. in the PLC library. A nursery is provided at no extra charge. Search Our Site! [Home] [Meet the Staff] [Religious Education] [Concert Events] [RCIA] [Calendar] [Bulletin] [St. Agnes] [Parish Life Center] [Life Teen] [Newsletter] [Fr. Glackin's Corner] Web related comments or questions: webmaster@saintjohntheevangelist.com © Saint John The Evangelist Catholic Church 2001-2004