Directory of Ministries
Adult Formation
Bible Study
Various Bible Studies are offered August through November, and January through April. Contact Brad Kendrick for the current study being offered.
Brad Kendrick, 217-430-2593, [email protected]
Catholics Returning Home
Catholics Returning Home is a program for inactive Catholics who want to return to the Church. It is held periodically and meets once a week over six consecutive weeks. Sessions include getting acquainted, faith sharing, and a review of basic Catholic teachings. The team is ready to listen to any concerns and confidentiality is maintained for all. All that is asked is to come with an open heart and mind.
Deacon Wayne Zimmerman, 217-222-4836, [email protected]
Divorce & Beyond
This is an eight-week program for individuals recovering from the often painful process of divorce, where participants meet to draw spiritual strength from each other in coping with their individual situations. The program is offfered periodically on Monday nights from 7-8:30 p.m.
Julie Erwin, 217-257-5313, [email protected]
Evenings with Engaged
A marriage preparation program led by married couples and designed to provide engaged couples with good communication skills and an appreciation for the Sacrament of Matrimony through sessions that take place within the year of marriage preparation. Some training is offered.
John and Jayne Lammers, 217-223-5793, [email protected]
RCIA — Team Member/Sponsor
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the ancient process by which the Catholic Church initiates its new members. Team members can help by facilitating sessions, breaking open the Sunday Scriptures during the Sunday dismissal or assisting the RCIA coordinator. RCIA sponsors assist the candidates and catechumens by journeying alongside them during the process. Sponsors attend sessions and help introduce and incorporate those in the process into parish life. Sessions are held weekly, typically starting in the fall.
Mike Holbrook, 217-653-5555, [email protected]
Youth Formation
Liturgy of the Word for Children Leader
Children from kindergarten through fourth grade are dismissed with a catechist to experience their own Liturgy of the Word at the 9:30 a.m. Mass from September through May. There is a rotation among the volunteer adults.
Kristy Henrichs, 217-653-6181, [email protected]
PSR Catechist
The Parish School of Religion provides religious education for our parish children who attend the public schools in grades 1-8. Catechists facilitate the lesson each week with projects and activities. Materials for classroom preparation are provided. Men and women who desire to share faith and time with our young people are needed.
Mike Holbrook, 217-653-5555, [email protected]
Vacation Bible School
Vacation Bible School teaches our children about their faith in a fun, activity-filled atmosphere. Usually held the third week of June, adult and junior high volunteers are needed to teach, lead small groups, prepare food, and help with crafts, games and music.
Wendy Steinkamp, 217-224-3949, [email protected]
Parish Life
Couples Prayer Group
The purpose of this group is to create a place to learn more about your faith and improve your prayer life with your spouse. It is not always easy to put God at the center in today’s world, but support always helps! We meet the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Parish Center. We have childcare provided for those who RSVP the number of children. Different couples lead every month. We have a Facebook page — search “St. Francis Couples Prayer Group.”
Tyler and Emily Wellman, 217-257-3536, [email protected]
Holiday Bazaar
Our parish hosts an annual Holiday Bazaar the first weekend in December. All parishioners and parish organizations are invited to attend and volunteer time working at the bazaar as well as set up and tear down after the bazaar. Parishioner donations of gift cards, theme baskets, and baked goods for the various booths are needed.
Misty Cramsey, 217-242-5601, [email protected]
Holy Name Society
The Holy Name is the charter group of Boy Scout Troup 22. All men of St. Francis Parish are members. Money is raised with a pancake and sausage breakfast on the last Sunday in October, the sale of fruit baskets at Christmas, a golf outing, and other events. All proceeds are given to the church, school, the Boy Scouts and St. Francis Food Pantry. Each year on Ascension Thursday, the men have a free dinner and a special speaker. Meetings are held three or four times a year.
Nathan Koetters, 217-242-9382, [email protected]
Ladies of St. Francis
All women of the parish ages 18 and up are invited to become involved in the Ladies of St. Francis. This group enjoys an evening together several times a year with dinner, a program with entertainment, and an opportunity to grow in fellowship as Christian women. The ladies also support the stewardship needs of the parish.
Rita Lammers, 217-577-4205, [email protected]
Parish Picnic
The primary function of this group is to plan the annual Parish Picnic that is held in the month of June and includes food, games for children and adults, ra es and music. The responsibilities are to participate and recruit volunteers to assist in the various game and food booths and other jobs related to the picnic. The group meets as needed during the year.
Gabe & Kelly Wheeler, 217-779-8322, [email protected];
Nathan & Amy Slough, 217-740-4711, [email protected];
Larry & Marsha Collins, 217-430-2828, [email protected]
Quilters
Quilting is done each Thursday and sometimes on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Members give what time they have available during these hours. Two queen size quilts and two baby quilts are donated to St. Francis each year. New members are always welcome.
Rosemary Duesterhaus, 217-222-0827, [email protected]
Scouting
Both Boy and Girl Scout groups are available to foster physical, emotional and spiritual development, as well as citizenship, teamwork, responsibility and leadership in our young people. Adult leaders and helpers are needed to support the programs and activities offered.
Troop 22 Boy Scouts: John Hamann, 217-617-1366, [email protected];
Pack 22 Cub Scouts: Jim Schuetz, 217-440-6780, [email protected];
Troop 225 BSA Girls Troop: Marsha Collins, 217-430-2828, [email protected];
Troop 5184 Girl Scouts: Alice Arnold, 217-440-6135, [email protected]
Secular Franciscans
Secular Franciscans are the lay people’s branch of the Franciscan Order begun by St. Francis of Assisi. Gatherings with prayer, formation and fellowship are held the third Sunday of each month. All Catholics are invited.
Sylvia Collins, 217-222-3852
St. Francis Community Assistance
Inspired by Gospel values, the St. Francis Community Assistance Ministry leads women and men to join together and grow spiritually by o ering help to those in need. Services are provided to both parishioners and community members. One of the main services is providing groceries to those who are in need through the parish food pantry. Some of the other services provided to parishioners include visiting those in nursing homes, sending birthday cards to those 80 years and older, providing sympathy Mass cards when a parishioner has lost a family member in death, delivering poinsettias to parishioners who are 90 and older, providing holiday food baskets/boxes to parishioners who are in need, and collecting bread from Panera to be shared with parishioners and food pantry recipients. The last Tuesday of each month, a team of 12 ministry members help prepare and serve a meal at Horizons Soup Kitchen. Meetings are held quarterly the rst Monday in March, June, September and December at 7 p.m. in the Parish Center.
Mary Beth McGee, 217-430-1533, [email protected]
St. Francis Community Assistance Page
Young Moms Together
All moms and their young children are invited to share co ee, conversation, a time of prayer and Scripture reflection, while forming and strengthening friendships. Come whenever you can. The group meets on the rst and third Tuesdays of the month. It is held in Solanus Hall from 9 to 10:30 a.m. from mid-September through May.
Jane Haas, 217-257-0533, [email protected]
Services
Angel Dusters
The“angels”help in the weekly cleanup of the church on Thursday mornings after 8 a.m. Mass. They maintain the areas of the vestibules, pews, sanctuary and sacristy.
Jean Jesberg, 217-223-1240
Austin's Army
On Monday mornings, men of the parish assist with special projects around the church and school. From painting the old to building the new, men are needed to give of their handyman skills to restore and rebuild St. Francis Solanus.
Tom Rakers, 217-316-3834
Little Lambs Childcare
Childcare for young children ages 1-5 will be offered during 9:30 a.m. Sunday Mass in the small conference room on the west side of the Parish Center. Contac us for more information or if you'd like to help volunteer. Student helpers would be appreciated.
Liz Gengenbacher, 217-257-5369, [email protected]
Flower Committee
To enhance liturgical celebrations and reflect the current liturgical season, our worship space is decorated with banners, owers and art. Volunteers with artistic or interior design skills are needed to plan the space, as well as people who can assist with the physical needs of preparing our sanctuary for worship.
Doris Karhoff, 217-224-1516, [email protected]
Funeral Dinners
As a service to the family who is grieving, our parish provides a dinner immediately following the funeral service. Often, these luncheons can be quite large, so many volunteers are needed to prepare food and serve the meal.
Marcia Tushaus, 217-222-3370; David Hildebrand, 217-455-3822
Helping Hands
A group of volunteers of all ages, sponsored by the Holy Name Society, are needed to assist families in the local community in need of light housework or yard work. We can also run short errands or just be good listeners!
Martin (Mak) Makarewicz, 217-224-8668, [email protected]
Hospitality Host / Hostess
Volunteers assist in hosting a dinner or refreshments for various parish events and/or provide baked goods or a dish for an event.
Linda Zanger, 217-257-8227, [email protected];
Marcia Steinkamp, 217-224-5665, [email protected]
Parish Nursing Program
The Parish Nursing program assists parishioners in integrating faith and health. Activities include visits to parishioners in their homes, nursing homes and the hospital as needed. Blood pressure screenings are also done after Masses on designated weekends.
Helen Zimmerman, RN, BSN, 217-222-4836, [email protected]
Rosary Makers
The Rosary Makers foster a devotion to Our Lady by making rosaries and placing them in the back of the church for all
to use. Parishioners are invited to take them home and grow in their Marian devotion.
Phil and Sherry Kemner, 217-224-4911
Other Talents
If you have other talents you want to share with the parish, please write them in on your Commitment Card. Examples include gardening, grounds work, advertising, public relations, photography, graphic design, telephoning, etc.
Leadership Councils
Liturgy Planning Committee
The Liturgy Planning Committee collaborates with the pastor on the spiritual and worship needs of the parish. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
Joselyn Smith, 217-653-3021, [email protected];
Cindy Reichert, 217-224-9694, [email protected]
Pastoral Council
The Parish Pastoral Council collaborates with the pastor on the spiritual and social growth of the parish. It seeks to foster parish unity, assess parish needs, develop parish programs, coordinate parish activities, encourage parish participation in spiritual and apostolic life, and provide a forum for parish dialogue. The council meets on the third Tuesday of the month from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Monica Hinkamper, 217-653-6400, [email protected]
Stewardship Committee
The Stewardship Committee is responsible for developing stewardship as a way of life at St. Francis. They evaluate the Stewardship efforts of the parish, assist with the Stewardship Renewal, and follow up with leaders concerning ministry participation, meeting on the fourth Tuesday of each month.
Marcia Steinkamp, 217-224-5665, [email protected]
Liturgical Ministries
Adult Funeral Mass Ministries
Adult volunteers fill the ministries of Mass as server, reader and Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at parish funerals.
Jim Nauert, 217-223-7021
Altar Servers
The Altar Servers assist the priest during Mass by participating in the entrance procession and presentation of the gifts, as well as holding the prayer books. This is open to boys and girls, fth grade through high school, as well as adults. Training is provided.
Mike Holbrook, 217-222-2898, [email protected];
Fr. Bob Barko, O.F.M., 217-222-2898 [email protected]
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
These ministers assist the priest and deacon with the distribution of the Holy Eucharist and Precious Blood at Mass. Ministers receive the opportunity for spiritual enrichment to help deepen their faith and reverence for the sacred presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Communion Ministers must be in full communion with the Church and must have received the Sacrament of Confirmation. There is a rotation among those who offer their services.
Steve and Geri McMillen, 217-222-6739, [email protected]
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to the Sick
Some members of our parish are unable to attend Mass due to age, illness or other circumstances that make them homebound or in a nursing facility. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are needed to ensure these parishioners receive the Eucharist in their home, nursing facility or at Good Samaritan Home on Sunday mornings.
Homebound: Carolyn Briddle, 217-222-0725
Nursing Homes: Geri McMillen, 217-222-6739, [email protected]
Gift Bearers
Families, couples and individuals who would like to present the gifts of bread and wine at the preparation of the gifts on Sunday are asked to pick up the cross on the gift table and notify the ushers before Mass.
Cindy Reichert, 217-224-9694, [email protected]
Good Samaritan Mass Group
This group of parishioners helps transport residents to and from the chapel at Good Samaritan Home. They also minister as readers, Communion ministers, and music ministers at Masses, which are on Thursdays at 10 a.m.
Roger and Phyllis Knuffman, 217-223-9844, [email protected]
Greeters
Greeters create a welcoming environment before Mass by offering a friendly greeting as newcomers and parishioners enter the church. Greeters receive persons attending with a smile and a friendly demeanor, helping those who need assistance.
Cindy Reichert, 217-224-9694, [email protected]
Readers
Readers proclaim the Word of God at Mass in an inspiring and meaningful way. They carefully review the Scripture passages and practice reading them aloud before coming to church. Training is provided as needed and there is a rotation among those who o er their services.
Janet Zeidler, 217-779-0290, [email protected]
Sacristans
Sacristans work behind the scenes to ensure that our liturgies run smoothly. They assist in preparation for Mass
by setting out the sacred vessels, bread and wine, etc., for weekend and weekday Masses.
Fr. Don Blaeser, 217-222-2898, [email protected]
Ushers
Men, women and families serve at Mass by assisting people to their seat, collecting the offertory and directing the flow of people during Communion every weekend. The ushers likewise ask families or individuals to bring up the gifts at the Preparation of the Gifts. The ushers are also keenly aware of security concerns and are prepared to make contact with authorities, should the need arise.
Usher Coordinator: Kelvin Hufendick, 217-964-2550, [email protected]
Security liason for ushers: Ron Gengenbacher, 217-316-6837, [email protected]
Music Ministries
Cantors and Musicians
Cantors and musicians lead the assembly in song during weekend Masses and on Holy Days. There is a rotation among those who offer their services. Please help lead our congregation in prayer! As St. Augustine once said, “Singing is praying, twice!”
Roger Begley, 573-406-3933, [email protected]
Funeral Choir
Men and women available to sing weekdays or Saturday mornings for funerals are invited to join this choir.
Mary Lou Rakers, 217-653-0337
Mary Ann VonderHaar, 217-223-4152
9:30 a.m. Mass Parish Choir
This choir is a group of dedicated men and women who give their time and talent to enhance the Liturgical Services of our parish. Many of our members have never sung in a choir before, but through commitment and rehearsals are able to develop their musical talents. Practices are held one half hour before the 9:30 a.m. Sunday Mass. If you are willing to join in this challenging and rewarding experience, we welcome your interest and participation. The choir sings at the 9:30 a.m. Mass.
Roger Begley, 573-406-3933, [email protected]
11 a.m. Mass Youth Choir
This group is open to students in grades 5-12 and provides both vocal and instrumental music at the 11 a.m. Mass on the fourth Sunday of each month. Practices are twice a month on Fridays after school.
Jill Steinkamp, 217-228-9353, [email protected]
School Ministries
School Board
The school board advises and collaborates with the pastor and the principal on the needs of the parish grade school in areas of excellence in spiritual, academic and financial concerns. The board meets on the second Wednesday of the month from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Amanda Garnett, 217-430-0113, [email protected]
St. Francis School Parent & Teacher Organization (PTO)
PTO (formerly Home & School Association) is a group of parents and teachers, and is intended to be a vehicle through which families and the school can work together in a spirit of harmony and teamwork to develop, promote and protect the vision and mission of the school. Throughout the school year, they coordinate programs, services and fundraisers that enhance the quality of the school. All parents and staff are welcome to join this organization and earn service hours while working on this ministry. If you want to help make our parish school the best it can be, join PTO!
Erin Vonderhaar, 217-257-9011, [email protected]
St. Francis School PTO Web Page
Solanus Saints
Solanus Saints is a group of parishioners whose mission is to help every student in our school reach his or her full potential. We mentor and tutor students who need extra help; assist in classrooms so teachers can focus on a student or group of students; help after school running copies, making bulletin boards, and assembling projects. If you are a retired teacher willing to tutor and mentor a student, a parishioner who could listen to a student read or work on math, or someone who wants to o er after-hours support assembling projects or making copies, Solanus Saints is a wonderful way to minister to St. Francis School.
Julie Schuetz, 217-440-6781, [email protected]
School Landscaping
This committee of volunteers would be responsible for the seasonal care of the school grounds. Tasks may include planting and watering of owers, trimming of bushes and planting grass where needed. This group may also clean memorial stones and plaques that are positioned by the side of the building. We would like to project a positive curb appeal to our visitors.
Judy Patterson in the school office, 217-222-4077
Catholic Organizations and Ministries in our Community
Birthright of Quincy
Birthright of Quincy is a non- profit, non-judgmental, non-denominational service organization operated completely by volunteers. The mission of Birthright of Quincy is to offer basic emotional and practical support that every pregnant woman and girl needs in order for her to bring her child into the world and beyond. Birthright also provides support they need to make educated and responsible decisions regarding their future and that of their babies.
217-224-1277
birthrightquincyil.org
Cursillo
The Cursillo Movement is a powerful instrument of renewal in the Church. Its aim is to concentrate on the Person and teachings of Jesus Christ. It begins on Thursday evening and ends the following Sunday night with those attending working together and listening to talks given by priests and lay persons.
Larry or Rita Frese, 217-936-2740, [email protected]
Knights of Columbus
Knights of Columbus Council #583 is a fraternal organization. The Knights are organized into a series of degrees for members based on their four basic principles — Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism. The Knights have been well known for service through the years.
John Veith, 217-653-0258, [email protected]
quincykofc.org
Ladies of Charity
The Ladies of Charity is a Vincentian organization whose motto is “To serve rather than be served, in humility, simplicity, and charity. ”The purpose is to assist the poor. Volunteers staff a Center at 4th and State, where items are distributed for free, on Mondays and Fridays. Ladies of Charity volunteers also sta a Thrift Store at 24th and Elm, where donated items are sold from Tuesday through Saturday.
Jane Haas, 217-257-0533, [email protected]
ladiesofcharityquincy.org
Quest
Great River Quest is a very fast-paced 24-hour retreat for eighth through 10th-graders! The youth learn about God, friendship and self, all while praying, playing and sharing in an exciting, fun- lled and thoughtful environment. These retreats are guided by adults and other teens.
Caroline Wiewel, 217-430-6086, [email protected]
greatrivertec.org
Right to Life of Adams County
Our mission is the education of the public on pro-life issues. Our main focus is the abortion issue. Volunteer opportunities include: helping at our booth at the Adams County Fair, helping at our annual dinner in October, helping promote our Pennies for Life campaign in the churches, and becoming a board member.
Lynn Schlipmann, 217 223-6658, [email protected]
Teens Encounter Christ (TEC)
Great River Teens Encounter Christ is a three-day weekend retreat for teens age 16-21, with focus on the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Teams of adults, young adults and teens help guide participants by sharing their experiences — struggles, joy and feelings — in their own lives and friendship with Jesus Christ.
Kim Knotts, Coordinator, 217-779-3528, [email protected]
greatrivertec.org
White House Retreats
The White House Jesuit Retreat Center in the South County area of St. Louis o ers two and three-day silent retreats for both men and women. Retreats are based on the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius Loyola. Private accommodations and family-style meals are furnished for the retreatants.
John Farwell, 217-222-3330, [email protected]
