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Opportunities
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Interested In:1.) Joining a Group?
- Council of Catholic Women: The women of CCW grow in their faith each year through listening to speakers, participating in charitable works, and partaking in meetings held monthly and with the various “rosary bands” (smaller groups that make up the CCW). Please contact Mrs. Erin Zauner or Mrs. Megan Lu for more information.
- Respect Life Committee: Relying on God’s inspiration and guidance, this group seeks to witness the truth of the Catholic Church on the controversial bioethics and “life issues” of the day, to understand her reasons for these teachings, to share these truths with those who would listen, and to help rebuild a Culture of Life. Please contact Mrs. Sue Kremer for more information.
- Walking With Moms in Need: As a branch of the Respect Life Committee, this group is organized to help struggling moms with donations, resources, help, and more! Contact Mrs. Nancy Kiolbasa for more information.
- Visit our Resources page for a detailed list of valuable sites and other information on help with pregnancy, miscarriages, abortion, and more.
- Catholic Worker Community: For over 20 years, the Stillwater Catholic Worker Community has been committed to a philosophy of life exemplified in the lives of Dorothy Day and Peter Maurin, founders of the movement. We are engaged in the practice of the Works of Mercy, especially in our Homes of Hospitality for women and children (Solanus Casey House and Our Lady Queen of Peace House, both located in Stillwater). Many activities are designed to include the whole family including Spring and Fall clean up days and an Annual Fall picnic. Every First Friday at 6:30 PM we host a potluck supper open to all, followed by evening prayer and often a guest speaker with discussion or a common reading, sacred music or poetry evenings based on the liturgical season. Please contact Mrs. Margaret Simmet for more information or to volunteer. Check the church bulletin for details about each monthly potluck supper and for other events.
- Men's Club: The Men’s Club of St. Michael’s and St. Mary’s held its first Fish Fry during Lent of 2002, a year after the founding of the ministry. They continue to serve dinner on Fridays during Lent, over 4,000 meals per season. The funds generated from the dinners go to support the Club’s philanthropic outreach. Please contact Mr. Bob Simmet for more information.
- Seven Sisters/Fasting Brothers: The Seven Sisters Apostolate is a call to strengthen the Church by ensuring that a Holy Hour is prayed each day of the week for the sole intention of a specific priest or bishop - a "holy wasting" (cf. Matthew 26:10) or lavishing of prayer for his deeper conformity to Christ. Please contact Mrs. Terri Gaffney for more information about Seven Sisters. For more information regarding Fasting Brothers Apostolate, please contact Mr. Thomas Ryan.
- St. Anne's Society (@ St. Mary's): All women of the parish are invited to be a prayerful member of the St. Anne's Society! Please contact Mrs. Helen Christ for more information.
- Resource Preservation Team (@ St. Mary's): All parishioners are welcome to be part of the Resource Preservation Team (RPT) for St. Mary's. Members of the RPT Committee come from various backgrounds and trades as craftsmen and volunteers committed to keeping our 157-year-old church and campus running effectively, working through routine maintenance procedures, and forecasting necessary projects. If you have interest or expertise in any areas of craftsmanship, please contact Mrs. Erin Lisle.
- Quilters Guild (@ St. Mary's): This devoted and fun group of quilters meets weekly to lovingly create beautiful quilts which will raise money for St. Mary's Church at the annual Wild Rice Festival. Please contact Mrs. Sandy Groschen for further information.
- Hospitality Committee (@ St. Michael's): Our Hospitality Committee is happy to foster fellowship and community at our parishes, especially by hosting "Donut Sunday" each month and welcoming new parishioners at our annual welcome brunch. Please contact Mrs. Nan Pederson for more information.
- Tanzania Sister Parish: We support our Sister Parish—Immaculate Conception Parish in Bwambo, Tanzania—by developing a lasting relationship, supporting spiritual needs, providing scholarships, and helping with church buildings, medical supplies, and equipment. Please contact Mr. Chuck Stevens for more information.
- Faith Formation Groups:
- Men
- Catholic Watchmen: Stillwater Catholic Watchmen is part of an Archdiocesan movement challenging men to rise up and become protectors, providers, and leaders of their parishes and families by living the seven disciplines of the Catholic Watchmen. Through evenings of fraternity, education, and prayer, we seek to sharpen our minds and be equipped with practical tools to "stand in the breach" and live our faith boldly. Please contact Mrs. Sue Argiro for more information.
- Men's Reading Club (The Misfits): Since September 2002, "The Misfits" Catholic Men’s Reading Group has been gathering to explore and discuss Catholic literature. Named after the protagonist in Flannery O’Connor's story, A Good Man Is Hard to Find, our group reads a variety of works by Catholic authors, including fiction, poetry, plays, and the lives of Saints. We meet on the second Wednesday of each month from 7:00 - 8:30 PM in the St. Thomas More Library at the Church of St. Michael in Stillwater, Minnesota. Join us for fellowship and a deeper engagement with the Catholic literary tradition. Please contact Mr. Buzz Kriesel for more information.
- St. Zeno Fly Anglers: The Fly Anglers group, through the inspiration of St. Zeno (patron saint of fishermen & anglers), was founded in 2016 by our chaplain, Fr. Jake Anderson, for men to grow in their faith while sharing their interest in fly fishing. We meet regularly during the summer months on trout streams in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Our gatherings feature men's fellowship, prayer and fly fishing. We also offer instruction for newcomers and can provide advice on fly rods, lines, flies, and other equipment for those interested in the sport. We can also provide equipment for men who just want to try fly fishing. Each year, the St. Zeno Fly Anglers host a fly fishing retreat in the Driftless Region of Northeast Iowa, on the Bear Creeks. The retreat includes daily Mass, fly fishing, fellowship, and an evening reflection. Other annual events include a family picnic and fly exchange Christmas party in addition to fishing together and periodic meetings to learn more about the art of flyfishing and always to share faith and fellowship. For more information contact Mr. Pat Houlton.
- Women
- Adoremus Mom's Group: Mothers are invited to join the Adoremus Study Group on select Thursday mornings. The current study is "Acts: The Spread of the Kingdom" by Ascension Press. The study runs during the school year and starts September 5. Childcare available. Please contact Mrs. Sarah Muehleck for more information.
- Young Women Bible Study: During this stage in life, it may be difficult finding other Catholic women to connect with. Our study seeks to help young women grow in relationship with God while forming authentic friendships and community with fellow sisters in Christ. Whether single, engaged, or married, you are invited to study the Word together as we encourage each other onward in holiness! Please contact Mrs. Amanda Fedor for more information.
- Walking With Purpose: Walking With Purpose reaches out to women who desire to grow in their faith using a Scripture-based program that is fresh, relevant, and focused on conversion of heart more than intellectual development. We begin with the basics, knowing that we can never master the core truths; there is always greater depth to explore. Please contact Mrs. Becky Thomson or Mrs. Holly Wagner for more information. Learn more, register for current studies, or join our mailing list.
- Wednesday Morning Women's Bible Study: Women of the parish are invited to join us for the new study Fulfilled: Uncovering the Biblical Foundations of Catholicism. Please contact Mrs. Peggy Gora for more information.
- Women Walking with Women: A community outreach to support women moving forward together in authentic friendship. Meetings every 2nd and 4th Tuesday in the St. Michael's library. Contact Mrs. Angie Fuith for more questions.
- Others
- St. Thomas More Library: Stop by the St. Thomas More Library at the Church of St. Michael, and bolster your spiritual life! Browse our expansive collection of books: Catholic classics, the lives of the saints, writings by popes, Church history, and tomes on everyday Catholic life are included in our repertoire. We are also pleased to offer a selection of books, movies, and materials from our parish Respect Life Committee. Please visit the Library during Parish Office hours, Monday-Thursday from 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM or Friday from 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM. Contact the Parish Office with questions at 651-439-4400.
- CGS Volunteers: We are in need of individuals willing to serve the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. These individuals would attend formation courses as moral and practical preparation for their time in the atrium. Each of the three levels of formation requires approximately 12 days of courses. The full cost of your formation will be covered for those who are able to commit 2 years of service in an atrium as a catechist or assistant. Assistants do not need to attend formation but are required to attend an orientation. If you are interested, please complete the form below.
*We understand that circumstances of life can fluctuate. We ask that these 2 years be completed within a 4-year time period*
- Men
- Others:
- Carmelite Community of Saint Joseph: Under the protection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel; in the biblical tradition of the prophet Elijah; and inspired by the teachings of St. Teresa of Jesus and St. John of the Cross; we make a commitment to the Carmelite Order to deepen our Christian commitment received in Baptism; seeking the face of God in prayer and service for the good of the Church and the needs of the world. Please contact Mr. Louie Forti for more information.
- Catholic Order of Foresters: COF has served as a Catholic fraternal benefit life insurance society since 1883. Please contact Mr. Richard Schultz for more information.
- Communion & Liberation: Faith, lived out in communion, is the foundation of the true liberation of man. Communion and Liberation offers a proposal for education in the Catholic faith. The School of Community teaches a method of constant comparison between the Christian proposal and one's own life in order to continually verify its capacity to respond to human needs in every aspect of reality. Please contact Mr. Sam Nelson for more information
- Cub Scouts & Boy Scouts: Through St. Michael's Cub Scout Pack 132 and Boy Scout Troop 132, boys learn through the experiences of camping, hiking, adventure, and community service. Scouting fosters self-esteem, a sense of value and belonging, a sense of accountability, and teamwork. Please contact Mr. Jim Thomson for more information.
- Holy Face Prayer Group: This group fosters devotion to the Holy Face of Jesus through Tuesdays of Reparation, communal recitation of the Chaplet of the Holy Face, and fellowship. Please contact Mrs. Kelly Duncan for more information.
- Knights of Columbus, Solanus Casey Council #1632: The Knights of Columbus is the largest Catholic fraternal service organization, standing for the four principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. Our council includes about 350 members from all around the St. Croix River Valley. Please contact Mr. Greg Stanich, Grand Knight, for more information
- Legion of Mary: Mary, Our Lady of the St. Croix Praesidium is a lay apostolate seeking to lead people to Jesus Christ through Mary. This sanctification process takes place through prayer and service by performing Spiritual Works of Mercy. Please contact Mrs. Nancy Kiolbasa (St. Michael's) or Mr. Thomas Ryan (St. Mary's) for further information.
- Schoenstatt: This worldwide institute is an educational movement intent on restoring our reliance on God while using our blessings, skills, and knowledge to help our family, our church, and our neighbors. Schoenstatt is connected through a network of Marian shrines and individual home shrines. Please contact Mr. Jay Goetz for further information.
2.) Pastoral Care Programs?- BeFriender Ministry: It is difficult for our clergy to meet all the pastoral needs of parishioners in hospitals, nursing homes, or those isolated in their own homes due to frail health. The BeFriender Ministry is a national, non-profit organization that provides leadership training and ongoing support for a listening ministry of lay pastoral care in churches, healthcare settings, and other organizations. Please contact Mrs. Joan Mellor, Pastoral Minister, for more information.
- Community Dinner: Come and enjoy dinner on us! Every third Saturday of the month, our tri-parish serves a free meal at St. Michael's Church. We invite you to bring friends and join us for a wonderful evening of food, fellowship, and charity. Please contact Mr. and Mrs. Marlay and Margaret Smith for further information.
- Meal Ministry: Are you recovering from surgery, welcoming a new baby to your family, or needing a hand with regular meals for a time? Please contact Mrs. Joan Mellor, Pastoral Minister, to learn more about how our parishioners might be able to support you with a meal train.
- Priest Meal Ministry: Thank you to everyone who has brought meals to Fr. Creagan and Fr. Conklin! Please consider signing up to bring a meal or take -out for our hard working, holy clergy! Questions can be directed to [email protected] or 612-269-7563. More details available at: CareCalendar.org. Use Calendar ID: 215802 and Security Code: 9368.
- Society of Saint Vincent de Paul: Vincentians share a compassionate concern for those in need and seek the presence of Christ in them with open hearts. They meet with parish visitors who have immediate needs by arranging for lodging, transportation, or a meal. For more involved needs (such as housing or utility problems), pairs of Vincentians undertake home visits. If you would like to be part of this faith-based, person-to-person opportunity to serve Christ in the person of the needy, please contact Mr. Danny Hughes.
- Grief Support Groups: Contact Mrs. Joan Mellor, Pastoral Minister, for more information.
- Catholic AA Meetings: St. Michael’s is hosting a weekly “Catholics AA” meeting from 7:00 - 8:00 PM on Thursdays in the parish library. No registration required. Contact Joan Mellor, Pastoral Minister with any questions at [email protected].
- Others:
- Christmas Outreach: The Giving Tree collects Christmas gifts for members of our parishes, for those living at Stillwater Residence, Hope House, and the Catholic Worker Homes. The program also reaches out to those helped by Project Life, our parishes’ St. Vincent de Paul Society, the Franciscan Brothers of Peace, and the Missionary Sisters of Charity. Gifts are collected from Thanksgiving through the middle of December for distribution by Christmas. Please contact Mrs. Joan Mellor, Pastoral Minister for more information.
- Pastoral Care to the Bereaved: Please contact Mrs. Joan Mellor, Pastoral Minister if you are in need of someone to talk you through your journey of grief. Our priests, deacon, and trained BeFrienders are ready to support you with scripture readings, support groups, books, and the ministry of presence. Grief support groups are offered for both widows and widowers.
- Helping Hand Emergency Fund: Our Helping Hand Emergency Fund assists parishioners who are facing a financial crisis due to job loss, health crisis, separation or divorce, minimum wage employment, or other reasons. Each request for assistance is considered individually and privately. We distribute about $6,000 annually in grants or loans to help with rent, mortgage payments, purchase of medications, energy and household bills, car repair, appliance repair, gas cards, or food gift cards. Special collections at our Thanksgiving and Ash Wednesday Masses help fund this program. Please contact Mrs. Joan Mellor, Pastoral Minister, for more information.
- Hearing Loops: The sound system at the Church of St. Michael has an induction loop system. Those with telecoil-equipped hearing aids can receive a direct feed from anything spoken into the microphones. If you have hearing loss and your hearing aids are not telecoil equipped, or if you do not have hearing aids, we still have an FM receiver system available and can provide training. Please call Mr. Joe Kiolbasa with questions at 651-274-3179 or click here to view an instructional powerpoint on how the hearing systems work at both parishes. Joe is a parishioner who has volunteered to help those with hearing loss as they strive to take advantage of the new systems.
- First Friday Prayers for the Sick: Our daily Masses on the First Friday of the month are offered for those suffering from sickness in our parish community. If you know of someone who would like to be included in our prayers for the sick, please contact Mrs. Joan Mellor, Pastoral Minister, at 651-439-4400 (x248). In accordance with privacy policies, please obtain permission from the person to be included in our prayers for the sick.
3.) Music?- Adult Choir: The Adult Choir sings a variety of musical styles in traditional four-part harmony, with organ accompaniment, at the 11:00 AM Sunday Mass at the Church of St. Michael and the 10:30 AM Mass at St. Mary's Church. Please contact Mrs. Jayne Windnagel, Director of Liturgy and Music, for further information.
- Children's Choir: All children of the parish are invited to come together as we pray, learn, and grow in our love of the Church and the liturgy. This includes learning more about our faith through the liturgy, chants, classical and modern works, and proper singing techniques. Please contact Mrs. Anna Wahl, Children's Choir Director, for further information.
4.) Altar Serving?- Holy Cross Altar Society: Members of the Holy Cross Altar Society encourage the highest standards of serving at the Church's liturgy, contributing to the whole community's participation in a more fruitful worship of God. Please complete the New Server Registration Form or contact Mr. Brian York, Prefect of the Holy Cross Altar Society, for further information.
5.) Environmental Opportunities?- Environment Committee: Ensuring our sanctuary is beautifully and properly adorned for each liturgical season and special solemnities or feasts is the work of our Environment Committee. Volunteers prepare floral arrangements and altar cloths throughout the year, most especially at Christmastime and Eastertide. Please contact Mrs. Jayne Windnagel (The Church of St. Michael) or St. Mary's office (651-439-1270).
- Gardening Group: Would you like to offer your green thumb to help make our campus grounds beautiful? Please contact Mrs. Jayne Windnagel (St. Michael's) or St. Mary's office (651-439-1270) to learn more about gardening opportunities at our parishes.
- Cemetery Volunteers: Lawnmowers, gardeners, and other outdoor volunteers are always welcome to help maintain our beautiful grounds at St. Michael's Cemetery in Bayport. Please contact Ms. Laura Kuschel, Office Manager at St. Charles, for more information.
6.) Ushering?- Ushers of Blessed Solanus Casey: Do you have a gift for hospitality? Do you desire to help our parishes safeguard and uphold reverence for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass? Please contact Mrs. Erin Lisle, Director of Business Administration and Parish Operations, for further information.
7.) Lectoring?- Lectors: A lector upholds the noble task of reading aloud from Holy Scripture during the course of sacred liturgies. Please contact Mrs. Erin Lisle further information.
8.) Becoming a Sacristan?- Sacristans: A sacristan is charged with responsibilities of the sacristy and its sacred furnishings. They are also tasked with preparing whatever is necessary for sacred functions. Please contact Mrs. Erin Lisle, Director of Business and Parish Operations, for further information about this sacred office.
9.) Adoration?- Adoration Chapel: Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration is available at the St. Faustina Adoration Chapel, located at the Church of St. Michael. Signup for a regular Holy Hour at stmichaelstmary.weadorehim.com. Contact Ms. Samantha Bertrand, Adoration Chapel Coordinator, at [email protected] or 612-615-4393 with any questions.
10.) Sports?- Basketball: Men of the parish and surrounding community who are interested in participating in both great basketball and great fraternity are invited to join our members for a session of weekly gym play! Contact Mr. Matt Crea, Administrative Assistant, or Mr. Jon O'Malley for any questions or details. Sponsored by Saint Sebasitian, Patron Saint of Sports and Athletes.