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ADULT SCRIPTURE STUDY
Purpose
An annual 15- week lecture series facilitated by a biblical scholar, on
various biblical topics, to enliven our tradition of faith; and to enhance our
understanding of the format, the authors, the physical geography, and the
political and social climates of the Bible.
Commitment
This Parish offering is open to all parishioners in the Diocese for
three 5-week sessions
(fall, winter, and spring), on Thursday evenings at the
Parish Hall from 7:30 to 9:00pm. While given in lecture style, the scholar
encourages discussion, and answers the questions generated. Topical printed
materials, a bibliography, and coffee and snacks are provided
at no cost.
Alpha Bible Study
Purpose
The Alpha Bible Study Group gathers together to read, study, and discuss the
books of the Bible. What do these teachings mean to us and how do we apply them
to our lives? We will help answer the questions as to the authors who wrote
these books, when they were written and for what purpose. There is a difference
between bible reading and bible study. In our group all members are able to ask
questions, participate in the readings, and are able to discuss their concerns
on the meaning of the various passages in each of the books in the bible. There
are no experts, only parish members who wish to share the word of God with each
other.
Commitment
We meet every Wednesday in the Parish Hall from 7:15 to 8:45PM from mid
September to Mid June. Each person is expected to bring their own bible. We will
supply reading and discussion material on the particular book of the Bible we
are studying at the time. All parish members are welcome and encouraged to
attend these meetings.
Altar Servers
Purpose
To assist the priest during mass. This is a good introduction to a deeper
understanding of
our celebration for our children.
Commitment
The time commitment can be variable as servers indicate their
availability for service two months in advance and are typically assigned to 1-2
masses per month. If the server is unable to fulfill the commitment it becomes
their responsibility to arrange for a substitute.
Training
Boys and girls 5th grade and older are eligible to serve. Instructional
classes are typically held in the fall. Other trainings may be arranged during
the year by appointment.
Auto Donation Program
Purpose
To supplement our Parish’s annual income this ministry accepts auto
donations from parishioners and friends. Donors receive a tax deduction based on
the Kelly Blue Book
value of their car.
Commitment
Volunteers coordinate auto pick-up, clean-up, smog certification,
minor repairs, DMV
paper-work, and word-of-mouth promotion. 100% of auto sales
accrue to the parish. This
is a year round, on-going program.
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Baptismal Preparation
Purpose
To prepare parents wishing to have their infants or toddlers baptized in
the Catholic Church. Godparents are also asked to attend this training. The
class is both informational and community oriented as several parents are
brought together to share the importance of their Catholic faith as it relates
to their children.
Commitment
Classes are held twice a month on the first and third Sunday at
1:30pm in the Parish Center. Parents and godparents only attend one class. Each
class lasts approximately one hour. Volunteers interested in this ministry would
be trained and scheduled to teach about once every two months.
Bike Ministry
Purpose
This ministry facilitates the collection of bikes and helmets for
distribution to those less fortunate. Our goal is to bring a smile to a child's
face during the Christmas holiday.
Commitment
Bikes and helmets are collected mid September through October.
Volunteers are needed to help clean up the bikes and make minor repairs. No
experience is necessary, just the desire to help others. Anyone who has ever
patched a bike tire is especially welcome. Volunteers are also needed who can
transport the bikes to Sacred Heart Community Services in
San Jose in time for
Christmas.
Bridges to Community
Purpose
To plan, organize, and coordinate activities, which allow parishioners to
put our Catholic faith and beliefs into practice through various programs that
benefit others. Bridges to Community sponsors the following St. Nicholas social
justice programs: Hunger Knows No Season, Christmas Giving Tree, Biannual Blood
Drive, Women's Career Clothing Drive, Homeless Needs Collection and the
Volunteer Activities Data Bank. Bridges to Community is the human concerns group
within St. Nicholas parish.
Commitment
We are always in need of extra hands to help, new ideas to implement, and
ongoing support through contributions to any of our sponsored projects. You are
encouraged to join our group at any time. We meet the second Monday of each
month, at 7:30pm, in the Parish Hall.
Children’s Liturgy for the Word
Purpose
This ministry coordinates the efforts of our volunteer catechists who
present weekly Liturgy of the Word to the children attending the 9:15 Sunday
Mass at St. Nicholas Church. During the Liturgy of the Word children are invited
to the Parish Center to attend age-appropriate presentations by the catechists
on that Sunday's readings. Catechists use special materials and prepare
activities to enhance the children's understanding of the Word. The children
then return to Mass for the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
Commitment
Catechists prepare for and present at least one twenty-minute liturgy
per month. Occasional meetings of all the catechists are held throughout the
year as needed.
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Confirmation Preparation
Purpose
The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated annually, usually during the
Easter Season, when candidates and their families are considered to be ready.
Each fall an invitation is extended to families to nominate candidates in the
second through twelve grades to begin
a process of discernment and preparation
for the celebration of this sacrament.
Commitment
This process includes:
•
Weekly celebration of the Eucharist by the candidate and family;
•
Participation in age-appropriate catechetical instruction through our religious
education
program, St. Nicholas School, junior high program, or youth
ministry program
(theIntersection);
•
Periodic interviews for the candidate and family with a member of the pastoral
staff;
•
Candidate and family service project;
•
Periodic age-appropriate family faith-formation meetings; and
•
Participation in an age-appropriate retreat experience.
Fall Festival
Purpose
To bring our parish community together for this annual parish appreciation day
that celebrates community for our entire parish. It begins with Mass and is a
fun filled day with many activities including carnival games, relays, face
painting, crafts, and much more.
Commitment
We rely on many volunteers to make this day successful. There are several lead
positions that coordinate different areas such as traffic, set up, clean up,
ticket sales, bar, and relays. If you can spare just an hour we always need help
the day of the event to work in a carnival booth. It's lots of fun and is an
excellent way to meet fellow parishioners.
Finance Council
Purpose
To oversee the operating budgets of the parish and school. The Council provides
guidance, direction, and shares in the Pastor’s fiduciary responsibility. The
Council also assesses the long-range financial health of the parish and the
feasibility of long-term projects.
Commitment
Meetings are held one evening every three months. There may be work between
meetings on some occasions. Members serve three-year renewable terms.
Selection
The Pastor selects committee members. Interested parishioners may submit their
names to our Pastor.
Hospitality
Purpose
To reinforce that all are welcome at St. Nicholas. This committee witnesses to
this truth by serving juice, coffee, and donuts after each Mass on Sunday. It is
a time for members of
our community to gather and socialize. The parish provides
the refreshments.
Commitment
Each Hospitality Team has at least seven members and minister three times a
year.
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Italian Catholic Federation (ICF)
Purpose
The ICF is a family oriented organization promoting activities that build family
spirit and bring all ages together; Italians and non-Italians. By praying
together, we strengthen our spiritual life and shared values. As a Catholic
organization, we receive communion as a group in our districts, give money and
time to our parishes, support parish schools and religious education programs,
visit rest-homes and work with the elderly, the needy and the developmentally
disabled, support our clergy and seminarians, and donate scholarships to eighth
grade students and high school students. Beyond this, we sponsor dinners, dances
and trips, because we believe social interaction is important.
Commitment
The St. Nicholas Branch meets the first Thursday of each month. Our dues are
modest and we would like you to join us in our good works. Family memberships
are encouraged.
Junior High Ministry (7-8th)
Purpose
To provide Jr. High youth ministry for students in 7th and 8th grade who do not
attend parochial school. The program consists of prayers, scripture, church,
faith-sharing, self-appreciation, value formation, responsibility, and service
projects. This program is carried out jointly with St. Williams Parish.
Commitment
The ministry group meets on Monday evenings from 6:00 to 7:15pm at St. William
Parish (Sr. Emmanuel Center). This program runs late September through May.
Liturgical Ministers- Eucharistic Ministers
Purpose
Ministers assist in the distribution of Eucharist at all Masses. This is a
beautiful way to serve the parish and enhance your own spiritual life.
Commitment
The time commitment can be variable as Eucharistic ministers indicate their
availability for service two months in advance and are typically assigned to 1-2
masses per month. If the minister is unable to fulfill the commitment it becomes
their responsibility to arrange a substitute.
Training
Sessions lasting approximately one hour are given periodically throughout the
year to
provide the necessary background and procedures for this ministry.
Liturgical Ministers - Lectors
Purpose
To proclaim the Word of God at weekend masses and special liturgies throughout
the year. This provides the lay minister the opportunity to participate more
fully in the liturgical life of the parish.
Commitment
Lectors are given an annotated lectionary of the readings for each year with
advice about presentation. The lector is expected to study and practice
privately prior to the mass. The time commitment can be variable as lectors
indicate their availability for service two months in advance and are typically
assigned to 1-2 masses per month. If the lector is unable to
fulfill the
commitment it becomes their responsibility to arrange a substitute.
Background
Although no particular experience is required, a lector should be able to speak
clearly and with confidence in a public forum.
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Liturgical Ministers - Ushers
Purpose
To greet members of our community and guests as they enter the Church to attend
Mass,
as well as assisting them in finding seats. Our Ushers ensure everyone
receives a church bulletin as they leave Church.
Commitment
You will be scheduled once or twice every eight weeks. The time commitment can
be variable as ushers can indicate their availability for service in advance.
Teen Ministry - theIntersection
Purpose
To foster a Christian Community among the high school youth from St. Nicholas
and
St. William parish communities, the Diocese of San Jose, and the greater
worldwide community. This ministry supports, challenges, and encourages the
faith life of local teens.
Commitment
theIntersection serves high school parishioners of St. Nicholas and St. William
Catholic Churches throughout the year and allows different levels of commitment.
Activities include Sunday Nights at theIntersection from 6:15 – 8:30pm at the
Teen Center behind St. Nicholas School, social justice and leadership
opportunities, retreats, and much more. Check out our website at
intersectiontm.com for more information.
Men’s Retreat
Purpose
To provide a time of rest and reflection in a spiritual setting to allow
participants to refocus on life priorities and goals.
Commitment
The St. Nicholas Men’s Retreat is at the Jesuit Retreat Center in Los Altos. The
weekend begins on Friday evening with a reception and dinner and ends with lunch
on Sunday. The retreat is scheduled for the last weekend in September each year.
Private room and meals are included for the nominal fee. Brochures are available
at the Jesuit Retreat Center (jrclosaltos.org),
St. Nicholas Church, and St. Nicholas School.
Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS)
Purpose
To provide St. Nicholas parents, with children ages newborn to kindergarten, a
support group which is dedicated to the positive enrichment of family life.
Monthly meetings include speakers, mom/parent-only events, park play dates and
more. MOPS provides an opportunity to meet other moms/parents, share experiences
and information, create new friendships and have fun.
Commitment
MOPS meets once a month.
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Music Ministry
Purpose
To foster and provide support for the full and active participation of the
assembly, which includes the singing of hymns, songs, psalms, sung responses and
acclamations. Music is also provided to accompany certain liturgical actions and
prayers.
Commitment
The Music Ministry team includes the Music Director, accompanists, cantors, and
instrumentalists who share their gifts at our various liturgies. The Choir,
which primarily sings at the 10:45AM Mass and special events such as Fall
Festival, Confirmations,
Christmas Midnight Mass, and the Easter Triduum (the great three days), consists
of dedicated volunteers who strive to enrich the liturgical celebrations by
adding musical elements to the assembly’s voice. Practice takes place each
Sunday at 9:00AM at the
Youth Center. The choir also meets for random Monday or Wednesday evenings at
the church depending on specific upcoming celebrations. (See bulletin, or
contact the Music Director for rehearsal schedules).
Parish Office Volunteers
Purpose
To provide assistance to the parish office staff by stuffing envelopes,
answering phones and occasionally covering the office.
Commitment
Generally, about 2-4 hours several times a year with additional times during the
first week of November for Christmas mailings and March/April for Easter
mailings. Actual times can be somewhat flexible.
Pastoral Care of the Homebound
Purpose
To provide the healing presence of Jesus to members of our community who are
unable to attend the Sunday Liturgy. An experienced Pastoral Care minister will
train anyone interested in this ministry.
Commitment
Once a week bring the Eucharist to one or two homebound parishioners.
Pastoral Council
Purpose
To advise the Pastor on various subjects as they relate to the parish and the
school. The Council is made up of six parish members, the Parochial Vicar, the
Pastoral Associate, and the Pastor. Parishioners nominate potential candidates
(which can include themselves). From the pool of candidates, potential members
proceed through a discernment process, from which final members are selected.
Commitment
Terms are for three years. The meetings are held monthly on the second Wednesday
of the month for about two hours (7:00 – 8:30pm). There are occasional special
projects that require time commitments outside of the regular meetings.
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)
Purpose
To engage adults who are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith.
Those who complete the process will receive the Sacraments of Initiation
(Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil.
Commitment
The RCIA is a two year process. Sessions are twice a month in the evenings for
Year One and Sundays during the 10:45 Mass for Year Two, from October to May
(regular season holidays and vacations are observed).
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Rite of Christian Initiation for Children (RCIC)
Purpose
To prepare children above the age of seven who have not yet received their
sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation. This process is
over a two year period and carried out jointly with St. William Parish.
Commitment
Year 1 meets Monday evenings from 6-7:15pm at St. William Parish. Year 2 meets
Sunday mornings form 10:45-12:00noon at St. Nicholas Parish. The program begins
in September and continues through Easter.
Rummage Sale
Purpose
The annual Rummage Sale builds parishioner involvement by renewing old
acquaintances and making new friends in a spirit of fellowship that glorifies
the Lord Jesus Christ. All revenue generated supports the school.
Commitment
Many volunteers are needed and very welcome. Commitment is always at the
discretion of the individual. Volunteering for event set up, donation sorting
and display, event day sale, and clean-up crew is essential. Volunteers find the
schedule flexible to meet their personal obligations. Volunteers are needed
between the months of June through August.
Sacramental Preparation for Children
Purpose
To prepare students to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Sacrament of
Eucharist. This program is part of the School of Religious Education for
Children and is carried out jointly with St. William Parish.
Commitment
Classes meet on Sunday mornings from 10:45am to 12:00pm at St. Nicholas School
or Monday evenings from 6:00 to 7:15pm at
St. William Parish Hall. Sacramental preparation
is a two-year process beginning
in first grade. Students must complete both years of the program. This program
runs late September through May.
School of Religious Education for Children K-6
Purpose
To provide religious education for students in Kindergarten through sixth grade
who do not attend parochial school. The program consists of prayers, scripture,
church, faith, self-appreciation, value formation, responsibility, service, and
projects. This program is carried out jointly with St. William Parish.
Commitment
Classes meet on Sunday mornings from 10:45 to 12:00 noon at St. Nicholas School
or Monday evenings from 6:00 to 7:15pm at St. William Parish Hall. This program
runs late September through May.
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Spiritual Life Committee
Purpose
To enhance the spiritual life of the Parish, the School, and the Religious
Education Program by sponsoring faith-related activities and events. These
include (but are not limited to) speakers, dramatic productions, rosary walks,
rosary for peace prior to healing masses, stations of the cross-Lenten walk,
women's retreat, grade level retreats and participation at monthly Saturday 8:00
a.m. Mass, religious book fair, and religious literature provided via family
envelope, distribution at religious education classes and the church bulletin.
Commitment
All interested persons are welcome to volunteer on this Committee, which meets
approximately once every two months.
St. Nicholas School
Purpose
Since 1953, St. Nicholas School has provided a learning environment based on
Gospel values. We teach a comprehensive academic program, which promotes
intellectual, social, spiritual, and emotional development. We encourage
Catholic stewardship, a spirit of community, outreach to those in need, and an
appreciation of diversity. We recognize that parents are the primary educators
of their children and the St. Nicholas faculty and staff strive to support and
complement them in this role.
Commitment
Parents are asked to become actively involved in their child’s or children’s
education. We ask our school families to contribute their time and talents for
at least 40 hours during each school year. Parents are also asked to be
participating members of their parish community and attend weekly Mass on
regular basis. This commitment is necessary in order to support the mission and
philosophy of St. Nicholas Parish School.
St. Nicholas School Parent Teacher Group (PTG)
Purpose
The Parent Teacher Group (PTG) brings parents, pastor, administrators, teachers,
students, and others together to cooperatively support St. Nicholas School. The
main goals of the PTG are to enhance communication, plan and implement
fund-raisers, promote and coordinate volunteerism, and provide assistance where
needed in the implementation of academic, athletic, social, and spiritual
programs. PTG meetings are held monthly. All school families are welcome and
encouraged to attend.
Commitment
The PTG offers numerous opportunities for school parents to get involved and
aims to offer options that are flexible out of respect for people’s work
schedules and other family commitments. The time commitment depends on the job.
Parents are able to find volunteer opportunities that best match their personal
schedules.
Wedding Preparation Process
Purpose
To prepare engaged couples that are active parishioners for successful entry
into the Sacrament of Marriage.
Requirement
A minimum of six months notification before the wedding is required, a longer
time is recommended. For inquiry on booking a wedding date contact the Wedding
Consultant.
Commitment
During the preparation period the couple will participate in the following,
which is facilitated by the Wedding Consultant:
•
Two meetings with the presider, discussing faith and sacrament.
•
Participate in the FOCCUS Instrument and discuss results with a professional
Family
Counselor who will facilitate discussion regarding communication and
compatibility.
•
Attend a weekend retreat or a series of three evening meetings for the
engaged.
•
Participate in a session required by the Diocese on Natural Family Planning.
•
Meets with the Wedding Consultant to discuss and choreograph the wedding
ceremony.
Woman’s Retreat
Purpose
To provide an experience of rest and reflection in a spiritual setting where you
can be refreshed and strengthened with new energy and renewal.
Commitment
The St. Nicholas Women’s Retreat is held annually at the Jesuit Retreat Center
in Los Altos off University Avenue. This location is an incredibly beautiful and
spiritual environment where you can relax, reflect, and still be close to home.
The retreats begin Friday evening with a reception and dinner, and then close
Sunday afternoon with lunch. The retreat is usually
held the last weekend in
April. Brochures are available at the Jesuit Retreat Center (jrclosaltos.org),
St. Nicholas Church, and St. Nicholas School.
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