Five members of the St. Albert the Great Choir recently combined forces with members of the choir from St. James Catholic Church (Louisville) to present three concerts in Ireland. Pip Hines, Director of Music and Worship at St. James served as organist and I directed. We were joined on the trip by Fr. Michael Schultz and Fr. Gary Padgett along with many family members, friends and parishioners from the Archdiocese and beyond. We nearly filled two buses with 77 merry travelers...
One of the highlights of the trip was singing for Sunday Mass at Galway Cathedral. University of Louisville music professor, Dr. Reece Land played trumpet and his wife Paola played violin adding to the splendor of the music. Immediately following Mass we presented a concert before setting off for sightseeing adventures.
We gave two additional concerts at historical churches with magnificent pipe organs – at St. Fin Barre in Cork and at St. Canice in Kilkenny. I was able to play an organ piece by JS Bach at the beginning of each of these concerts and it was a thrilling, nerve wracking experience!
Our bus driver/guides expertly maneuvered us around Ireland. They regaled us with historical and cultural tidbits of the country. We spent time touring Galway, Limerick, Cork, Kilkenny, Dublin and into Northern Ireland with stops in Derry and Belfast. We saw castles and churches, cliffs and countryside. There is so much beauty to behold from the Cliffs of Moher and Kylemore Abbey to the Wicklow Mountains and Giant’s Causeway. We marveled at God’s bounteous beauty in both the people and landscape of Ireland. Of course, no trip to Ireland is complete without frequent outings to the great pubs dotting every city. We were able to listen to local musicians as they gathered in the evenings to play instrumental reels and gigues. We even had some opportunities to chime in with “My Old Kentucky Home”.
It was a fast-paced trip with a once in a lifetime opportunity to sing in sacred spaces so far from home. It’s good to be back, but I want to go again!
January 7-17, 2026
Jerusalem | Bethlehem | Nazareth | Galilee | Amman
Join Fr. Chris on a 10-day pilgrimage to the Holy Land & Jordan! Journey through the sacred sites of Scripture—from the Sea of Galilee to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth, and more—where the Bible comes to life and faith is deepened with every step. This faith-filled trip includes daily breakfast and dinner, accommodations in 4 & 5-star hotels, guided tours, and time for prayer and fellowship. Don’t miss this unforgettable opportunity! Cost is $5,499.00. Brochures located in the parish office.
If you are interested in learning more about St. Albert the Great Parish School for your family, now is the time to review our upcoming 2026-2027 application dates and details. Please click on the button below for more information.
School tours are offered between September 2025 and April 2026. For more information or to schedule a campus tour, please visit https://www.school.stalbert.org/admissions and click on "Tours".
Friday, August 15th
Friday, August 15th is the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Masses for this holy day of obligation will be at 8:30a.m. and 5:00p.m. School children will attend Mass at 9:45a.m. We will also have a Vigil Mass on Thursday, August 14th at 5:00p.m.
On this great solemnity, the Church declares our belief that Mary has gone before us, body and soul, into heaven. Her entry into Heaven prefigures our own hope of experiencing the same eternal life. In the words of Pope Benedict XVI, “The Solemnity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the oldest Marian Feast, returns every year in the heart of summer. It is an opportunity to rise with Mary to the heights of the spirit where one breathes the pure air of supernatural life and contemplates the most authentic beauty, the beauty of holiness. The atmosphere of today’s celebration is steeped in paschal joy.”
August 16th & 17th
On August 16-17, the Archdiocese takes up the Peter’s Pence Collection, which supports the Universal Church and the work of the Holy See, including helping Pope Leo XIV with the funds he needs to carry out his charitable works around the world. The proceeds benefit our brothers and sisters on the margins of society, including victims of war, oppression, and natural disasters. Take this opportunity to join with Pope Leo and serve as a witness of charity. For more information, visit https://www.obolodisanpietro.va/en.html.
August 16th & 17th
All students are invited to bring their backpacks to Mass for a special Blessing of the Backpacks as we begin a new school year! Students of all ages are welcome—from preschool to college—as we pray for a year filled with learning, growth, and God’s guidance. Teachers and school staff are also invited to receive a blessing as we support all who are returning to the classroom or home school.
Saturday, September 13, 2025
10:00AM | St. Michael
All married couples are invited to be part of a special Anniversary Mass on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 3705 Stone Lakes Drive.
Whether you plan to attend in person or not, we encourage all couples celebrating an anniversary to register and be recognized. Couples married 50 years or more who attend will receive their certificate of recognition personally from Archbishop Shelton.
To participate, please submit your names, mailing address, and number of years married to the St. Albert parish office by Wednesday, September 3rd. Let us honor the gift of your marriage!
August 28th | 10:00AM | SHC
The August book will be Reason To Believe by Ron Tesoriero. There is no cost to join and no pre-registration is required. Just read the book and show up! We will meet in the Sacred Heart Center on the last Thursday of the month at 10:00am.
August 27th | 9:00AM
Join us as we begin a new year of growing in faith together! All Parish Religious Education Program (PREP) families are invited to our Family Assembly & Kickoff this Sunday, August 17th at 9:00am. Fellowship for all will make it a joyful start to our journey together!
We have many children who love to attend Children’s Liturgy of the Word at our weekend Masses, but we need your help! Lessons and materials are provided—just bring your love for sharing God’s Word with children. Without volunteers, we cannot continue this program. If your children attend, please prayerfully consider helping so this ministry can thrive. To learn more or sign up, contact Rebecca Nash at rnash@stalbert.org or call 425-3940.
Does your child need the Sacrament of Baptism? Our next Baptism service is scheduled for Saturday, September 6th at 4pm during Mass, with Parent Preparation Class on Sunday, August 24th at 12:00pm. Contact Rebecca Nash at 425-3940 or rnash@stalbert.org for more information or to schedule a baptism date.
September 6th | November 1st | January 31st | April 18th | 8:30am -1:00pm in the PLC
Marriages of all ages are invited to join Year 4 of Grace Marriage, a thriving ministry growing each year! Once a quarter, couples meet to enrich their relationships with practical tools and biblical wisdom, like an "oil change" for your marriage. Whether you're newlyweds or seasoned couples, this program welcomes you to start fresh alongside others who’ve participated before. Sign up today, using the button below, to invest in your marriage and grow closer to your spouse and God!
To learn more about Grace Marriage, please visit www.gracemarriage.com. Contact Mark and Erin Morris at erin.ebelhar@gmail.com if you have any questions. Cost: $189 for 4 sessions (breakfast, coffee and refreshments included)
Saturday, August 30, 2025
10am-1pm Workshop (9:45am Gathering)
St. Albert Parish Life Complex
Looking to deepen your prayer life? Join us for an Introductory Centering Prayer Workshop, presented by Contemplative Outreach Louisville.
This method of silent prayer prepares us to receive the gift of God’s presence within, helping us grow in intimacy with Christ through quiet communion.
The workshop introduces the method of Centering Prayer as both a spiritual discipline and a path to deepen your relationship with God. It’s not meant to replace other forms of prayer, but to enrich them—helping us move from conversation with God to resting in God.
Six optional follow-up sessions will be offered to support your continued practice.
To register, click on the button or contact Kristina Hellmann khellmann@stalbert.org
Thursday evenings at 7pm beginning September 4th
OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults) is a program for adults who wish to become Catholic or are missing sacraments. We offer an opportunity to come together in a small group to learn more about the Catholic faith. Sessions focus on the scriptures, teachings and experience of the Church and prepare individuals to celebrate the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist during the Easter season. You are welcome to participate in the process with your questions, your insights and your faith story in a warm, accepting setting. You will be accompanied on your spiritual journey by a Catholic sponsor who is there to help answer questions and support you. For information please contact our Director of Formation and Evangelization Flynn Mudd fmudd@stalbert.org. Sessions take place on Thursday evenings from 7:00-8:30pm in the Sacred Heart Center.
Mary Study II
This continuation of Mary Study I will delve deeper into Marian devotion and theology. Topics include Marian Doctrine and Dogma, the writings of St. Louis de Montfort, The Secret of the Rosary, The Secret of Mary, and the 33-Day Consecration. Classes begin Wednesday, August 27, and will be held in the Parish Life Center at either 10:00 AM (morning session) or 7:00 PM (evening session). Completion of Mary Study I is required to enroll in Mary Study II.
Mary Study I
Missed the first part of the study? We’re planning a new session of Mary Study I, which explores Mary in Sacred Scripture, Church teaching documents, and Marian Consecration using Fr. Michael Gaitley’s 33 Days to Morning Glory.
A minimum of three participants is needed. Dates and times will be set based on interest.
Interested?
Contact Fr. Chris at frchris@stalbert.org to learn more and call or email Sophie sbelle@stalbert.org at the parish office to register.
Check out the Social Concerns website for all the current information and happenings!
https://sites.google.com/stalbert.org/st-albert-social-concerns/home
September 6th & 7th
Our next food collection will take place the weekend of September 6th & 7th and will benefit the Sister Visitor Food Pantry. Thank you for continuing to support our neighbors in need! They are aways in need of easy to cook items such as:
Canned potatoes, carrots, mixed vegetables
Chili
Manwich
Canned Tuna & Chicken
Ramen Noodles
Canned Spaghetti & Meatballs
All soup (except tomato)
Collard Greens (low sodium preferred)
Diced tomatoes (low sodium preferred)
AUGUST 9TH - 24TH
Save the date and your gently used shoes!
Our Social Concerns committee in conjunction with our Grade School and PREP Program are sponsoring a Gently Used Shoe Drive for Waterstep from August 9th-24th. Waterstep uses the profits from selling these shoes to provide water treatment facilities where desperately needed throughout the world. Please deposit them in the boxes in the gathering space or give them to a child in our school or PREP class.
Tuesday, August 19th | 5pm
The August gathering of Markey’s Group will take place on Tuesday evening, August 19th at 5:00pm. We will meet for dinner at Silvios Restaurant located at 104 Fairfax. Anyone who has experienced the loss of a spouse is invited to join Marley’s Group. We gather monthly for dinner and lively conversation. Our gatherings provide a night out for some fun and relaxation. If you plan to attend the dinner on August 19th, please notify Mike Ahrens by Noon on August 18th at (502) 836-7847.
Sunday, August 17th | 3:00pm
We invite all Special Needs family and friends to St. Margaret Mary on Sunday, August 17 at 3PM. We know Mass can be a struggle for many families, so we offer a beautiful, unique celebration together where all feel welcome. Just come as you are! The Mass will be shorter and geared towards our children. Stick around after Mass to meet other families and kids. A light reception will follow in the Hospitality Room. For questions, more information please contact Tara Mattingly at 502-690-2851 or tmattingly@stmm.org
Our Lady of Lourdes offers Divorce Care, a 13-week seminar and support group, on Thursdays, 6:00–7:30p.m., beginning August 28. Divorce Care provides a warm, caring, and confidential environment in which participants can learn practical information and gain hope for the future. Participants may join at any time. $20 fee for materials. Please register at divorcecare.org. For more info, contact Dana Eckert, danae@ourlourdes.org or call the OLOL Parish Office.
Loved Ones of Substance Abuse Passing meets Wednesday, August 20th at 6:30pm in the Sacred Heart Center.
NAMI Family Support meets on Sunday, August 17th at 7:00pm in the Parish Life Complex.
Thursday, Sept 4th | 7:30pm | Visitation Hall
Looking for brotherhood and a strong sense of community? The St. Albert Men's Fellowship is just for you!
All our parish brothers are invited to come meet other like-minded men interested in forming strong friendships, deepening their faith, and participating in service. "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." Proverbs 17:17
Join the Fellowship on Thursday, September 4th at 7:30pm in the Cafeteria to kick off the NFL season, tailgate potluck style! Bring your best tailgate dip/snack/appetizer and join us for a night of football, drinks, cornhole, and fellowship. Cowboys @ Eagles kicks off at 8:20PM.
The group is always brainstorming ideas for future social gatherings and ways to get involved in parish life. If interested in attending, please click the link (https://share.hsforms.com/1UGo6tc_4TNCgtkg4NjwcVgpyaxe) to fill out the form and tell us more about yourself. If you have any questions, please contact Nick Norcia at NLNorcia@gmail.com
Saturday, September 6th | 9am-5pm | Visitation Hall
Join us on Saturday September 6th for crafting and fun and maybe a little bit of scrabooking! $40 fee covers lunch, agoodie bag, and table space. This event is in support of Hildegard House, with proceeds being donated to aid their mission. Contact Cathy Hardin 502-807-8131 or Val Boeh 502-417-8869 for more information or to sign up.
Picnic Lunch Cruise | September 18th
The date for the picnic lunch cruise on the Mary M Miller is September 18. We board for the ride at about 11:30-11:45, and set sail at Noon. The cruise lasts two hours. Lunch is catered by Lady Fingers. Lunch and the cruise, for Seniors, is $37 per person, if there are at least 15 people. Make checks payable to Belle of Louisville Riverboats. Give the checks to Paula Englert as soon as you can because the cruise must be paid in advance. If you pay and then can’t go, your lunch will be delivered to your home. There is no refund for the river boat cruise.
Each of these Adventures will be a great time. Hopefully about 20+ people will sign up for one trip or both. If you have other suggestions or questions, let Paula know.
Saturday, August 16 | 5:00–9:00 p.m. | St. Albert
Join us after Mass for an evening of food, fun, and community as we kick off the school year!
Challenge your crew!
Take on friends and family in the basketball free-throw competition or cornhole tournament (Sign-up info coming soon!)
Grab dinner at our food & drink stations while your kids play.
Enter to win a 3D printer or buy a custom 3D printed keychain.
Kids Wristbands: $20 Includes unlimited access to:
Bounce Houses
Face Painting
Sand Art & Temporary Tattoos
DJ Tent
Dunk Tank featuring our fearless St. Albert staff & coaches!
Bring the whole family and make it a night to remember!
**This is a cash-only event**
Proceeds benefit the St. Albert the Great Parish School Class of 2026 Trip.
Friday, September 19th, 1:00pm
Eagle Creek Golf Club, LaGrange KY
Sponsored by the GAP Club
Go to store.stalbert.org for sponsorship opportunities or to enter a team!
Back to school trainings are underway! These very important training sessions are designed to promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all—this training, along with an Archdiocese of Louisville-issued background check, is mandatory for anyone working with children. Even if you think you will be working with children in the future, but are unsure, you’re strongly encouraged to take advantage of these upcoming sessions.
All trainings begin promptly at 6:30pm (unless otherwise noted) and children under 16 will not be admitted given the content discussion.
8.4.25, Flaget Center
8.7.25, St. Joseph (Bardstown)
8.11.25, St. Aloysius (Pewee Valley)
9.8.25, St. Bernard School
9.18.25, St. Margaret Mary
9.22.25, Flaget Center:
10.6.25, St. James (E-Town)
Trainings are subject to postponement due to weather, etc... It’s best not to wait if you think you will be serving in your parish or school.
Stewardship Renewal forms are available in the parish office and the gathering space of church. You can also download the form using the links below or on the parish website at www.stalbert.org/stewardship. Completed forms can be brought/mailed to the parish office; dropped in the collection basket during Mass; or emailed to stewardship@stalbert.org. Please complete and return your 2025-2026 Stewardship Renewal form ASAP!
WEEK ENDING August 10:
Cash & Check: $15,624.50
Online Giving: $14,918.49
Total Rcvd as of August 4th for FY 2025-26: $229,640.14
Needed Budget as of August 4th for FY 2025-26: $195,645.60
Total Over/Under Budget: $33,994.54
Thank you to all who have blessed St. Albert the Great with gifts of treasure! It is through your generosity that our parish is able to meet our financial obligations and continue God's work of supporting and serving our community and those in need.
Use Online Giving (scan the featured QR code, visit www.stalbert.org, or download the Give+App--available free in Apple and Android app stores).
Text 877-254-4667 your gift amount and follow the prompts. Click here for more information about Text-to-Give.
Mail gifts of treasure to the Parish Office. Our mailing address is 1395 Girard Drive, Louisville, KY 40222.
Drop off donations to the Parish Office or leave securely in the black security mailbox located on the brick wall to the immediate left of the Parish Office entrance doors.
Planned Giving: Visit https://stalbert.org/giving for more information.
Please call 425-3940 with any questions about giving.
Another way you can give to the Parish this Christmas is through gifts of stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. For more information about this type of donation please contact Larry Brunner at the parish office (lbrunner@stalbert.org).
St. Albert the Great, Pray for Us.