Bereavement Support Group

Our Bereavement Ministry is a compassionate program dedicated to supporting individuals who are mourning the loss of a loved one. Rooted in Catholic faith and principles, this ministry offers a nurturing environment where individuals can find solace and understanding during their grief journey. 

The program is designed to help participants express their emotions, learn effective coping strategies, and gradually move toward acceptance and healing.

Objectives of the Ministry

One of the primary objectives of the New Life Bereavement ministry is to provide emotional support to grieving individuals. The ministry creates a safe and welcoming space where participants can share their feelings and experiences without fear of judgment. This open atmosphere encourages honest expression and helps individuals feel less isolated in their grief.

Teaching Coping Strategies

The ministry also focuses on equipping participants with practical coping strategies. Through workshops, discussions, and shared experiences, individuals learn how to manage their grief in healthy ways. These strategies may include mindfulness practices, journaling, and other techniques aimed at reducing stress and enhancing emotional resilience.

Facilitating Acceptance and Healing

Another crucial aspect of the ministry is guiding participants toward acceptance and healing. Through spiritual guidance, prayer, and community support, the ministry helps individuals come to terms with their loss and find peace. This journey toward acceptance is personal and unique for each person, and the ministry respects and supports this individual process.

Support Group Meetings

Regular support group meetings are a cornerstone of the Catholic bereavement ministry. These gatherings provide a structured yet informal setting where participants can connect with others who are experiencing similar losses. Sharing stories and listening to one another fosters a sense of community and mutual understanding.

The New Life Bereavement ministry is a vital resource for individuals navigating the challenging path of grief. By offering emotional support, teaching coping strategies, and facilitating acceptance, the ministry plays a crucial role in helping participants heal and find hope. Through community and faith, individuals are empowered to move forward with courage and renewed strength.

Catholic Book Club

Welcome to our Catholic Book Club, where we explore a rich tapestry of Catholic literature that spans devotional and theological writings, saint biographies, and even fiction. Whether you are a devout Catholic or simply interested in the faith, you are warmly invited to join our discussions and deepen your understanding through literature.

How It Works

Every few months, our members nominate books that they feel would be enriching and engaging for the group to read. From this list of nominations, we collectively choose one book to read and discuss the following session. 

Meeting Details

Our gatherings are held several times per year, providing a relaxed and inviting environment for adults to engage in meaningful discussions about the chosen book. Meetings take place either in our parish or in the homes of our members, fostering a sense of community and fellowship.

Who Can Join?

Everyone is welcome to participate, regardless of their background or level of knowledge about Catholicism. Our discussions are friendly and open, encouraging a variety of perspectives and insights.

Contact Information

If you are interested in joining our book club or have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Kemrich at Kemrich@churchofstandrews.org.

We look forward to having you with us on this literary journey!

Cake Baker Ministry

Welcome to the Cake Baker Ministry! 

We are a dedicated team of enthusiastic bakers who come together to create delightful cakes and sweet treats for our parish community. Our mission is to serve with love and joy, bringing sweetness to special events and celebrations within the parish. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, there's a place for you here.

Our Purpose

The Cake Baker Ministry exists to:

• Foster Community Spirit: By baking for parish events, we help to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels included.

• Celebrate Special Occasions: From weddings and baptisms to church anniversaries and holiday gatherings, we ensure that every event is marked by delicious treats.

• Encourage Creativity: Baking is an art, and our ministry provides a platform for bakers to express their creativity and passion for pastry.

How You Can Participate

Participation in the Cake Baker Ministry is flexible and accommodating. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Bake at Your Own Pace: You can contribute as frequently or as infrequently as your schedule allows. Whether you bake once a month or once a year, every contribution is valued.

• Share Your Specialties: Have a family recipe or a signature dessert? Share it with the parish and let others enjoy your unique creations.

• Collaborate with Others: Join forces with fellow bakers to create larger projects or themed dessert tables for big events.

Benefits of Joining

Being part of the Cake Baker Ministry offers numerous rewards:

• Connect with Others: Meet new friends and strengthen bonds with fellow parishioners through shared experiences in the kitchen.

• Learn and Grow: Enhance your baking skills by learning tips and tricks from other members and experimenting with new recipes.

• Give Back: Use your talents to enrich the parish community and support its mission through delicious and heartfelt contributions.

Join Us Today!

If you have a passion for baking and a heart for service, the Cake Baker Ministry is the perfect place for you. We welcome bakers of all skill levels and backgrounds. To sign up or learn more, please contact our ministry coordinator. Together, let's bake a difference in our parish community!

Cornerstone Women's Retreat

What is Cornerstone?

The Women's Cornerstone Retreat is a transformative experience designed to help participants find gratitude and spiritual revitalization in their lives. 

The retreat spans from Friday evening, 6:00 - 9:30 pm, to Saturday, starting at 7:00 am and concluding with the 5:00 pm Vigil Mass.  This retreat is open to women aged 25 and older.

During Cornerstone, participants, referred to as candidates, engage in a variety of activities aimed at deepening their spiritual well-being. 

The weekend includes elements of prayer and quiet reflection, as well as faith-sharing and fellowship. Through faith-sharing, candidates explore the significant role of Christ, the Cornerstone, in their lives. 

They reflect on past experiences, current situations, and future aspirations. Fellowship fosters spiritual mentorship, creating lasting connections beyond the retreat.

Why Participate?

There are numerous reasons to consider joining the Cornerstone Weekend. Participants often find it a rewarding experience that brings new perspectives and spiritual growth. 

How Much Time is Involved?

The Cornerstone Weekend is an in-person event held at Francisan Sisters Retreat House on Kresson Rd. in Cherry Hill, NJ 

 It requires a commitment from Friday evening to Saturday evening, with optional overnight stay:

• Friday Session: 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm

• Saturday Session: 7:00 am - 5:00 pm (concludes with Mass)

Who Organizes and Coordinates the Cornerstone Weekend?

The Cornerstone Weekend is meticulously planned by the Cornerstone Team, a dedicated group of about 8 women who have previously participated in a Cornerstone Weekend. 

 The team operates with a collaborative approach, allowing members to utilize their unique skills and talents in preparation for the weekend.

By participating in the Cornerstone Women's Retreat, women can embark on a journey of spiritual discovery and community building, enriching their lives and those around them.

Adopt a Parish Garden

Welcome to our parish's "Adopt a Parish Garden" program, where you can become one of our cherished Garden Angels! This is a wonderful opportunity to contribute to the beauty and serenity of our parish grounds while honoring loved ones through memory gardens.

What Our Garden Angels Do

Our Garden Angels are dedicated volunteers who help maintain the vibrant garden spaces around our parish. Responsibilities include:

• Planting: Adding seasonal flowers and other plants to enhance the beauty of the gardens.

• Watering: Ensuring the plants receive adequate hydration to flourish.

• Maintaining: Regular weeding, deadheading, trimming, and general upkeep to keep the gardens healthy and attractive.

• Seasonal Clean-ups: Conducting thorough clean-ups in both the spring and fall to prepare the gardens for the changing seasons.

Garden Spaces Available for Adoption

There are several garden areas around the parish that can be adopted, including:

• Church Entrance Sign

• Rectory Yard: Both around the house and the back fenced-in area

• Front of School Building: From the school entrance doors to the flag pole

• Front of Church

• Church Entrance Flower Beds

• Garden by St. Andrew Statue

• Parish Center

These spaces can also be transformed into memory gardens, allowing you to create a living tribute to your loved ones.

Support and Reimbursement

The parish will supply seasonal flowers, but volunteers are welcome to bring additional plants. If you choose to purchase plants, the parish offers reimbursement upon request, ensuring your generosity is supported.

How to Get Involved

To volunteer or learn more about becoming one of our "Garden Angels," please reach out to us. Your involvement will not only beautify our parish grounds but also create a lasting legacy of love and community spirit.

Join us in nurturing our parish gardens and making them a place of reflection and joy for all who visit.

The Knights of Columbus: An Overview

The Knights of Columbus is the world's largest Catholic fraternal service organization, dedicated to the principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. This esteemed organization empowers Catholic men to live their faith fully—at home, in their parish, at work, and in the broader community.

Empowering Catholic Men

By joining the Knights of Columbus, you become part of a global brotherhood of 1.9 million men. This membership is a commitment to standing up for Catholic faith in the public sphere. The Knights provide members with access to important information needed to stay informed and make impactful decisions on issues concerning life, family, and religious liberty.

Active Parish Involvement

The Knights of Columbus are deeply involved in parish life. They offer substantial support to the clergy, the church, and various parish ministries. This involvement helps strengthen the church community and fosters a spirit of service and dedication among its members.

Monthly Meetings

The Knights of Columbus meet once a month, providing members with opportunities to engage with one another, discuss important matters, and plan activities that benefit their communities and uphold the organization's principles. These meetings are a cornerstone for fostering fellowship and ensuring the Knights remain a dynamic force for good.

Joining the Knights of Columbus means becoming part of a legacy of faith-driven service and solidarity. It is an opportunity to grow spiritually while making a tangible difference in the world.

Legion of Mary

The Legion of Mary is a lay apostolic association of Catholics who, with the sanction of the Church and under the powerful leadership of Mary Immaculate, serve the Church and their neighbor on a voluntary basis.

Purpose and Mission

The primary objective of the Legion of Mary is to glorify God through the holiness of its members, achieved through prayer and active co-operation in Mary’s and the Church’s work. This is done by fostering a deeper relationship with God and engaging in acts of service that reflect the love and compassion of Christ.

Structure and Meetings

The basic unit of the Legion of Mary is called a praesidium, which holds a weekly meeting. These gatherings are a blend of prayer, reports, and discussions. During the meetings, members share their experiences, plan activities, and support each other in their spiritual and apostolic endeavors.

Membership

Individuals interested in joining the Legion of Mary must apply for membership in a praesidium. Membership comes in two forms: auxiliary and active. Both offer life-changing experiences that deeply impact the members and those they serve.

Activities and Responsibilities

The Legion is dedicated to the spiritual and social welfare of each individual. Members are actively involved in the life of the parish and the community. Their activities include:

• Visiting families and the sick, both in homes and hospitals

• Collaborating in various apostolic and missionary endeavors supported by the parish

• Engaging in weekly apostolic work in the spirit of faith and in union with Mary

• Volunteering at nursing homes and senior facilities

• Leading the rosary at church or senior centers and serving as evangelists through prayer and example

Spiritual Growth Through Service

The Legion of Mary believes that service and prayer, dedicated to Christ through Mary, is a path to an enriched spiritual life. By embodying these principles, members not only transform their own lives but also positively influence the lives of those they encounter.

Contact and Commitment

For more information or to join, please contact: Queenoftheapostles97@gmail.com.

Time Commitment: Two hours per week

Joining the Legion of Mary is an opportunity to deepen your faith, serve your community, and grow in holiness alongside fellow believers.

St. Andrew Men’s Prayer Group

About Us

The St. Andrew Men’s Prayer Group is an association of Christian men, united under the Catholic Church, who meet weekly to pray together and encourage each other to be the spiritual leaders of their families. 

Our mission is to foster a community where men can grow in holiness and become strong spiritual leaders in both their families and communities. We are committed to supporting each other on our spiritual journeys through prayer, discussion, and fellowship.

Our Purpose

“The purpose of the Men's Prayer Group is to instill holiness in men and facilitate spiritual leadership in family and community life." We aim to provide a space where men can deepen their understanding of faith, engage in meaningful discussions, and strengthen their spiritual lives.

Meeting Details

Our prayer group meets twice a month, offering a welcoming environment for all attendees. 

During our gatherings, we:

• Engage in Thoughtful Discussions: Each meeting features engaging topics that are relevant to our spiritual growth and understanding of faith.

• Deepen Our Faith: We dedicate time to learning about our faith, exploring its teachings, and finding ways to apply them in our daily lives.

• Pray Together: Prayer is a central part of our meetings, providing us with the opportunity to connect with God and seek His guidance.

• Enjoy Fellowship: Coffee and donuts are provided, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and mutual support.

Join Us

We welcome men who are seeking a deeper connection with their faith and wish to become spiritual leaders in their homes and communities. Whether you are a long-time member of the church or new to exploring your faith, we invite you to join us in this journey of spiritual growth and fellowship.

Messages of the Heart: A Special Day for Women

Join us for a heartwarming and inspiring event designed exclusively for women. "Messages of the Heart" promises to be a day filled with music, prayer, fellowship, and empowerment. Mark your calendar for this special occasion!

Event Details

• Date: Thursday, March 20th, 2025

• Time: 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM

• Location: Parish Hall

Event Highlights

Music and Worship

Begin your day with soulful music and uplifting prayer sessions that will set the tone for a day of reflection and community.

Keynote Speaker

Be inspired by a powerful message delivered by our esteemed keynote speaker. The speaker will share insights and stories that resonate with the themes of empowerment, resilience, and love.

Lunch and Afternoon Sessions

Savor a delicious lunch while connecting with fellow attendees. The afternoon sessions, held in the Parish Hall, will offer opportunities for further engagement and discussion.

Why Attend?

• Connect with Other Women: Build friendships and connections with women from various walks of life.

• Be Inspired: Gain valuable insights and motivation from our keynote speaker and other participants.

• Nourish Your Spirit: Engage in activities that enrich your heart and soul.

We look forward to welcoming you to a day dedicated to celebrating and empowering women. Let's come together to share our stories, support one another, and leave with renewed spirits and hearts full of hope.

Prayer Shawl Ministry

The prayer shawl has long been a source of comfort and hope, providing solace to those facing physical or emotional challenges. Traditionally knitted or crocheted, these shawls are imbued with prayers throughout their creation. Once completed, the shawl is blessed and given to someone in need, allowing them to feel the warmth of the soft yarn and the prayers woven within. 

The beauty of this ministry is that the recipient can also pray while wearing the shawl and eventually pass it on to another person in need, continuing the cycle of care and spiritual support.

How Can I Make a Shawl?

Creating a prayer shawl is a meaningful way to contribute to this compassionate ministry. If you're interested in making a shawl, you can find patterns, yarn, and a welcome packet available at the Parish Office during business hours. For added convenience, materials or completed shawls can be left in the Sacristy for pick-up during weekend Mass.

Two Ways to Create

1. Join the Prayer Shawl Circle:

o The Prayer Shawl Circle meets on the 1st Wednesday of each month in Upper Room of the Parish Center from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM

.

o This group enjoys lively conversation and informal prayer while creating various handicrafts, making it a great choice if you appreciate a communal atmosphere.

2. Create at Home:

o You have the option to knit or crochet your prayer shawl at home or with a small group of our choosing.  

Contributing to the Ministry

If crafting isn't your strength but you still want to support the prayer shawl ministry, consider making a financial donation. Your contributions help restock supplies, ensuring the continuation of this comforting tradition. 

Checks can be made out to St. Andrew the Apostle Church with "Prayer Shawl Ministry" noted on the memo line.

Your involvement, whether through crafting or donation, helps spread warmth and hope to those in need, perpetuating the loving spirit of the prayer shawl ministry.

Respect Life / Mothers in Need

Our Respect Life / Mothers in Need ministry is dedicated to upholding the dignity of human life from conception to natural death through prayer, education, advocacy, and service. 

Our actions are rooted in Catholic social teaching, which emphasizes the sacredness of life and the inherent worth of every person. 

We engage in activities such as praying for the unborn and vulnerable, educating parishioners on life issues, advocating for pro-life legislation, and supporting pregnant women and others in need. 

Key Aspects of Our  Respect Life Ministries:

Prayer and Worship:

Engaging in both individual and communal prayer for a culture of life and love. 

Education:

Providing information to parishioners about the sanctity of life and the Church's teachings on relevant issues.

Advocacy and Public Policy:

Supporting efforts to restore legal protections for the unborn and vulnerable, and advocating for morally acceptable alternatives to abortion and euthanasia. 

Care and Service:

Offering support to women facing difficult pregnancies, those involved in abortion, and individuals and families facing end-of-life decisions, illness, or suffering. 

Activities and Programs:

Respect Life Sunday/Month:

An annual observance in October dedicated to pro-life activities, prayers, and awareness. 

Prayer Vigils:

Participating in prayer vigils outside abortion clinics. 

 Advocacy Alerts:

Providing opportunities to contact government leaders to advocate for pro-life policies. 

Pastoral Care:

Offering compassionate support to those impacted by abortion or facing life-ending procedures. 

Respect Life / Mothers in Need also works to provide support for families in our community collecting and distributing new and gently used baby items. This is achieved through a collaborative network of partner agencies dedicated to assisting single, underserved mothers.

How We Operate

Volunteers play a crucial role in our mission. They help in the collection, sorting, and delivery of baby items to our partner agencies, who, in turn, provide essential services to mothers in need. 

These mothers are our neighbors, part of our parishes and communities, and deserve our support and compassion.

As Pope Francis encourages, our parishes should be “islands of mercy in the midst of a sea of indifference.” Therefore, it is important for everyone in the parish community to know how to support a pregnant woman in need.

Walking with Moms in Need

Walking with Moms in Need is an initiative for Catholic parishes and communities to "walk in the shoes" of local pregnant and parenting women who require support. This program focuses on building friendships and connecting these women with local resources. 

Here’s how it works:

• Resource Inventory: Parishes are provided with a framework to assess local resources.

• Identify Service Gaps: Determine where services may be lacking and identify needs.

• Implement Parish Response: Develop a response plan based on the findings.

Parish Support

Parishes can actively support existing local pregnancy centers. In areas with limited resources, parishes are encouraged to create support systems using the unique gifts and talents of their community members.

How You Can Help

• Contact: For more information or to get involved, please reach out to KEmrich@churchofstandrews.org.

Time Commitment: Volunteers are asked to dedicate just one hour per week to make a significant impact.

By participating in this initiative, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of mothers and their children, fostering a supportive and compassionate community.

Small Faith-Sharing Groups at Church of St. Andrews

Small faith-sharing groups provide a wonderful opportunity for individuals to come together and deepen their faith within a supportive community. Through prayer, shared experiences, and meaningful discussions, participants can explore their beliefs and understand how to live their faith in the contemporary world.

What to Expect

Our small faith-sharing groups meet once a week for eight weeks at the Church of St. Andrews. During these gatherings, participants engage in several enriching activities:

• Scripture Reading: Each session begins with reading and reflecting on passages from the Scriptures. This serves as a foundation for understanding faith and its application in daily life.

• Open Conversations: Members are encouraged to share their personal faith journeys and insights. This open dialogue fosters a sense of community and mutual support.

• Exploration of Devotional Readings: The groups delve into devotional readings and Church teachings, discussing their relevance and application in today's world.

• Prayer: Each meeting includes time for communal prayer, which helps strengthen the bond between group members and reinforces faith.

Why Join a Faith-Sharing Group?

Joining a small faith-sharing group can be a transformative experience. Here are some benefits:

• Community Building: Connect with like-minded individuals who are also seeking to grow in their faith.

• Personal Growth: Gain new perspectives on living your faith in everyday life.

• Supportive Environment: Share and learn in a safe, welcoming space where everyone's contributions are valued.

Get Involved

If you are interested in joining one of our small faith-sharing groups, please reach out to us. We look forward to welcoming you into our community and embarking on this faith journey together.

Contact: Kemrich@churchofstandrews.org

We hope to see you at our next session!

Spiritual Life Committee Overview

The Spiritual Life Committee plays a vital role in shaping the liturgical and spiritual life of St. Andrew’s parish. 

Its primary mission is to guide parishioners in understanding and responding to their baptismal call through meaningful worship and ministry. By fostering spiritual growth, the committee seeks to lead the faith community into a more profound relationship with God.

Goals and Vision

The committee's vision is to enrich the spiritual lives of parishioners through:

• Liturgy: Offering experiences of the Eucharist that emphasize the communal and dynamic nature of worship.

• Prayer and Spiritual Growth: Providing opportunities that invite full, conscious, and active participation from the Assembly, empowering them to live out their faith daily.

Responsibilities

The Spiritual Life Committee is entrusted with several responsibilities to ensure the spiritual well-being of the parish community:

• Dialogue and Feedback: Engaging with parishioners to ensure spiritual programs meet their needs.

• Evaluation: Regularly assessing spiritual opportunities and incorporating feedback to enhance programs.

• Spiritual Enrichment: Promoting various liturgical services and prayer forms, such as:

o Retreats and days/evenings of recollection

o Communal praying of the rosary

o Advent and Lenten programs

o OCIA program

o Prayer intention arrangements

Activities and Programs

Committee members convene to plan and implement programs focusing on:

• Renewal: Initiatives that rejuvenate the spiritual life of parishioners.

• Faith Sharing: Encouraging communal discussions and reflections on faith.

• Adult Faith Development: Offering educational opportunities for deeper understanding and growth in faith.

Contact Information

For more information or to get involved, please reach out to the Spiritual Life Committee via email at: Kemrich@ChurchofStAndrews.org.

Women of Joy: Nourishing the Spirit

Women of Joy is an uplifting program dedicated to enhancing the spiritual lives of Christian women. 

Our monthly Prayer Breakfasts offer a space for women to come together, share a delicious breakfast, and enjoy the fellowship of other women. 

Each gathering features a presentation by a Catholic speaker who shares insights and inspiration, tailored to the unique challenges and joys faced by women in today's world.

A Tradition of Affirmation

Since our first Women of Joy Prayer Breakfast in 2015, we have provided countless hours of affirmation and encouragement. 

Women leave our events feeling cherished and rejuvenated, with opportunities to lift their voices in prayer and song for themselves, their families, communities, the nation, and the world.

Inspirational Speakers

Our speakers are united by a common philosophy and a deep commitment to Jesus. They focus their talks on the issues women face as Catholics and Christians in a busy world, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong connection to faith. 

Through their presentations, they inspire attendees to reflect on their spiritual journeys and encourage them to embrace their faith with renewed vigor.

Building Community Through Fellowship

At Women of Joy, we believe in the power of community. Our Prayer Breakfasts provide a welcoming environment where attendees can break bread and spend quality time with one another, reinforcing the importance of support and companionship on our spiritual journeys.

 It is an opportunity to open our arms to Catholics, former or non-practicing Catholics, and non-Catholics alike, offering a unique Catholic experience that feels more like a heartfelt get-together.

A Morning of Renewal

Each breakfast is a morning filled with prayer, song, reflection, friendship, laughter, and sometimes tears. These gatherings engage and refresh each woman's spirit, offering a chance to step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and focus on what truly matters.

For more information or to join us at our next Women of Joy Prayer Breakfast, please email Catherine at catherineknasiak@yahoo.com or call/text 856-693-0200. 

We look forward to welcoming you into our community and sharing this special experience with you!