Here is What's Happening in YOUTH MINISTRY IN our parish...
Here is What's Happening in YOUTH MINISTRY IN our parish...
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teenagers enjoy a night of prayer, desserts and ping pong at the ark christmas party (Dec. 19)
teenagers enjoy a night of prayer, desserts and ping pong at the ark christmas party (Dec. 19)
The Ark held a Christmas party for teenagers on Dec. 19, and it was beautiful to see how many showed up for a rosary to kick things off. After that, the teenagers enjoyed a night of desserts, Christmas trivia, ping pong and Wii.
We are fascinated by the youth in this community and their dedication to growing closer to our Lord. Regardless of what it is that draws them to these events, there is always just as much enthusiasm to start things off with a rosary as there is for anything else.
world youth day meeting will be held thursday, dec. 18, at 6:30 for anyone potentially interested in the 2027 pilgrimage
world youth day meeting will be held thursday, dec. 18, at 6:30 for anyone potentially interested in the 2027 pilgrimage
We will be holding a meeting on Thursday, Dec. 18, at 6:30 in the parish office basement to discuss World Youth day (WYD) 2027 in Seoul, South Korea. The pilgrimage will take place from Aug. 3-8, 2027, and anyone who is 18-35 years old at the time is welcome to attend.
If you are even potentially interested in coming along, we ask that you attend this meeting on Dec. 18, as we are trying to gauge how many people might be going. We do not need commitments from anyone for quite some time, but again, need to at least gauge interest.
WYD only occurs every several years, and is a life-changing trip for all who attend. It is a worldwide celebration of our Catholic faith in which millions of people gather to one location, to celebrate our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Those who attend return home with a deeper love and passion for Christ and what He's done for us.
We will be discussing the logistics and finer details of WYD at the Dec. 18 meeting. If you have any questions about the pilgrimage or about the meeting, please email Austin Fox at afox@stmarychurch.net.
Join us for a christmas party at the ark on friday, december 19, at 7:00!
Join us for a christmas party at the ark on friday, december 19, at 7:00!
Come join us for a Christmas party at The Ark on Friday, December 19! We'll kick things off with a rosary at 7:00, and then will hang out and have fun after.
There will be candy and desserts on hand, trivia and plenty of music, with anybody who would like eligible to D.J.
Perhaps the highlight of the night, though, will be the high-stakes games of ping pong that will take place. Anybody who beats Austin Fox in just ONE GAME will receive a gift card for FIVE free purchases.
All are welcome to swing by!
thank you to all who donated gifts to the homeless this christmas season (Dec. 17)
thank you to all who donated gifts to the homeless this christmas season (Dec. 17)
Thank you to everyone who donated gifts for the homeless this Christmas season! Some teenagers helped deliver the gifts to Holy Cross in Lansing on Dec. 17, spreading Christ's love to those who need it most in the process.
This was an incredibly generous act to all who contributed. We can't thank you enough for brightening the Christmas season for those who are less fortunate than us!
christmas presents, healing prayer and our blessed mother mary all topics p-w junior charlotte simon discusses on this week's podcast (december 11)
christmas presents, healing prayer and our blessed mother mary all topics p-w junior charlotte simon discusses on this week's podcast (december 11)
P-W junior Charlotte Simon shares an incredible story involving the power of healing prayer, as she was recently prayed over at The Well's Burning Bush night on Dec. 1. What occurred to her during the healing prayer not only involved an immense amount of peace and comfort, but also our Blessed Mother Mary. You won't want to miss Charlotte's story...
the lord is working in some of the youngest of us — check out this inspiring article from a pair of 6th graders (December 5)
the lord is working in some of the youngest of us — check out this inspiring article from a pair of 6th graders (December 5)
Age does not matter when it comes to who our Lord can work through. That was on full display this week, when a pair of 6th-grade girls wrote an incredibly inspiring article about how much their faith means to them. Layla Thelen and Declyn Thurlow jumped at the opportunity to provide some tips on how to ensure God remains the focal point in our daily lives, sharing some strategies they themselves have employed.
These are such inspiring words below from these two Christ-filled young ladies. Layla and Declyn, all we can say is thank you for your witness to Christ's love!
the importance of keeping your faith
the importance of keeping your faith
By Layla Thelen and Declyn Thurlow
Hello everyone!! For those of you who may not know us, we’re Declyn Thurlow and Layla Thelen. We have just started 6th grade at P-W middle/high school.
Our faith started like most Catholics, by going to church on Sundays, adoration, and confession, etc. However, now that we are not attending a Catholic school anymore where that was part of our regular schedule, now we do these things on our own without being told even when we are busy.
Even with school and practices a couple times a week and other activities in a week there is always time to talk to God. Some of the things we take time to do is pray before meals and go to church every weekend. Even though we aren't at a Catholic school doesn't mean we stop growing in our faith with God. We can still grow our relationship with God every single day!
Something that we have started to do to enhance our relationship with God is attend bible study every Thursday morning. It is a great way to read the scriptures and to learn more about our Lord. As a middle schooler it is very hard at times to do the right thing and to spread the word of Christ. We try our hardest to learn about God and also do our best in school even though it is hard when we might not have that much time. It is always good to take time and say a prayer or read the bible, go to adoration and church, etc.
When we do have some free time, we use that extra time and listen to God talk to us and guide us. Talking to God has changed our life majorly! Whenever we see or hear others talking about their faith, it really makes us happy. We are so lucky to have God in our lives. We hope everyone knows how lucky they are to have God in their lives. He is with us everyday, helping us in everything we do. We would love to end this with a prayer.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Please watch over each and every one of us. Help us to stay strong even when it is hard Lord, when we are going through a hard time, help us to turn to you. Help all of us to know that you are the light in the world and you will always be right next to us! We love you so much!!
Amen
dates set for both our steubenville and alternative spring break trips (november 6)
dates set for both our steubenville and alternative spring break trips (november 6)
All current 8th-12th graders are encouraged to attend this blessed retreat that has changed so many of our students' lives. The theme of the retreat is "Worthy." Registration forms and more information will be released in the coming months.
Anyone who is 14 years or older is encouraged to come on this life-changing trip that is an "alternative" to most folks' usual spring break trips. This trip to Kentucky helps teens realize the joy that comes in serving others, while creating lifelong memories and friendships at the same time. Registration forms will be sent out in the coming months.
Teens enjoy a night of prayer, ping pong and donuts during the ark's halloween party (november 5)
Teens enjoy a night of prayer, ping pong and donuts during the ark's halloween party (november 5)
Over 60 teenagers gathered at The Ark on Halloween night to pray a rosary, and enjoyed donuts, candy, cider, ping pong and spooky stories afterward. It was a special scene to see so many of our town's youth prioritize their faith and partake in the rosary, especially on this All Souls' and All Saints' Day weekend.
halloween party at the ark for our teens on halloween night
halloween party at the ark for our teens on halloween night
All of our town's teens are invited to come hang out at The Ark this Friday night (Oct. 31), beginning with a rosary at 8:00. Candy, donuts and cider will be on hand, along with potentially live music.
The highlight of the evening, though, (other than the rosary) will involve some INTENSE ping pong games with massive prizes at stake. Anybody who beats Austin Fox in a single game (up to 21) will receive a gift card for FIVE free purchases.
Hope to see you there!
a beautiful podcast with p-w senior ella thelen on the eve of all souls' day (october 31)
a beautiful podcast with p-w senior ella thelen on the eve of all souls' day (october 31)
P-W senior Ella Thelen delivered a heartfelt message on the eve of All Souls' and All Saints' Day weekend, discussing the recent passing of her grandfather and the impact he had on her family. A devout man of God, Ella talked about how large of a role model he was to so many people.
She dove into several other important topics as well, including where God may be leading her in her life, how to incorporate Him into every aspect of daily life and so much more.
our 8th graders visit with, pray with georgene thelen (october 27)
our 8th graders visit with, pray with georgene thelen (october 27)
P-W's 8th graders visited with elderly Westphalia resident Georgene Thelen on Monday (Oct. 27) during class, making her day in the process. They also prayed a full rosary (the Joyful Mysteries) with her, and she was smiling from ear to her the entire time.
We emphasize to our 8th graders all the time the importance of both praying with others and serving those who are less fortunate than us, but wanted to put it into action. Allowing them to see the joy this brought Georgene helped drive the point home.
God bless you, Georgene!
at just 12 years old, adrian thelen displays spiritual wisdom far beyond his years (October 24)
at just 12 years old, adrian thelen displays spiritual wisdom far beyond his years (October 24)
P-W 7th grader Adrian Thelen, who is just 12 years old, came on our "Growing With God" podcast this week and knocked it out of the park. He displayed a spiritual mentality that some people spend their whole lives striving for. Adrian talked about how the eternal reality of heaven and hell has caused him to live entirely for God, and how he spends each day discerning what God's will is for him.
Throughout history, God has used young people (such as Timothy in the Bible) to spread His love to others. Adrian seems to be a young man who God is also using as an instrument for good!
p-w freshman Anna miller epitomizes what it means to be courageous for jesus christ (october 23)
p-w freshman Anna miller epitomizes what it means to be courageous for jesus christ (october 23)
One of the primary things we encourage our teens to do in our youth ministry programs is to live with a fearlessness and a courageousness for Jesus Christ. If we step out of our comfort zones even a little bit for Him, we will see that He is NEVER outdone in generosity. There's an old saying that says, "If you give God an inch, He'll take a mile."
Though just a 14-year old freshman, Anna Miller exemplifies in this writeup below what it means to "leap for Jesus Christ." Using some Biblical references, Anna takes a look back at others who have shown courageousness for Christ and how He rewarded them. Thank you, Anna, for YOUR leap of faith!
how can we leap for jesus?
how can we leap for jesus?
By Anna Miller
Hello everybody! Anna Miller here. I never really thought about leaping for Jesus. That is until this past year. I’ve become so much closer to Jesus, just by asking myself this one question. How can we leap for Jesus?
You’ve heard of the leap of faith before. The dictionary definition means an act of believing in or attempting something whose existence or outcome cannot be proven. But what is a leap of faith within your holy life? Or even your life at all?
Jesus has demonstrated this to us. All you have to do is take the leap of faith and you can experience this for yourself. One example of this is the unclean woman. For 12 years society had thought of her as unclean until one day she saw Jesus. She reached out and touched His garment, even though this was considered extremely rude in those times. She was immediately healed.
The bible has labeled this woman as Veronica. She leapt, and Jesus caught her.
Another one was the story of Abraham and his son. God told him to sacrifice his son. Though this pained him greatly, he trusted God to catch him. And he did. God caught him, gave him a new sacrifice, and rewarded him greatly for his trust.
The last story is called the fiery furnace. Three men named Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were commanded to worship a golden statue by their King, Nebuchadnezzar. They refused, proclaiming that they would only worship God. The King was furious with them and ordered his furnace to burn seven times hotter. The soldiers who threw them in died but the three men lived. When the King looked in, he saw a fourth figure. This was God. After the King saw that the men were unharmed, he ordered that the whole kingdom only worship God. These three men leapt to their death unafraid because they knew Jesus would catch them.
The same thing occurs in all these stories. Someone leapt, and they trusted God enough to catch them.
We can all learn from this type of faith. It doesn’t even have to be great, just little steps are enough for Jesus. No matter what happens, Jesus is going to catch you. Even when you don’t want Him to, He will be there, waiting for you, hoping that someday you will let Him in enough to show you the greatness in store for you.
a team of christ-filled women will be guiding our sunday schoolers this year (september 9)
a team of christ-filled women will be guiding our sunday schoolers this year (september 9)
We are excited to introduce our Sunday School team this year — Bethany Schneider, Brianne Thelen, Elizabeth Nurenberg and Beth Hurren. All four are Christ-filled women who are ecstatic to lead your little ones closer to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Any child who is 3-5 years old and potty trained is eligible for Sunday School, which begins on Oct. 12. Registration ends on Sep. 27, and forms can be found in the main entrance of the church or printed off here.
Brianne thelen
Brianne thelen
Favorite saint: St. Gianna Beretta Molla
Quote you live by: "She is clothed in strength and dignity and laughs at the days to come." — Proverbs 31:25
Favorite part about being Catholic: The community and being able to share what it means to be Catholic.
Why you enjoy leading youngsters to Christ: I love seeing the joy in their eyes when they are learning about Jesus!
Bethany schneider
Bethany schneider
Favorite saint: Saint Therese of Lisieux
Quote you live by: “Do small things with great love.” — Saint Therese’s “Little Way”
Favorite part about being Catholic: Being able to receive the Eucharist and knowing my faith was founded by Jesus Himself.
Why you enjoy leading youngsters to Christ: I love seeing the way kids naturally love Jesus and ask questions without worry. They believe without fear and inspire us adults to do the same!
elizabeth nurenberg
elizabeth nurenberg
Favorite saint: Saint Zelie
Quote you live by: “Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.” — Saint Augustine
Favorite part about being Catholic: There are too many to pick just one! The sacraments, the rosary, the saints; all are such amazing tools that we can rely on to grow deeper in our faith.
Why you enjoy leading youngsters to Christ: I love planting small seeds of faith with my own children and watching the ways that it grows with them.
beth hurren
beth hurren
Favorite saint: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, patron saint of teachers (I always knew I wanted to be a teacher)
Quote you live by: "Walk by faith, not by sight." —
2 Corinthians 5:7
Favorite part about being Catholic: The saints!!
Why you enjoy leading youngsters to Christ: Everything about their faith is exciting. They are full of love and joy for Christ.
ping pong is back at the ark! (September 9)
ping pong is back at the ark! (September 9)
We are thrilled to announce our ping pong table has been repaired and is up and running once again at The Ark! It is located in our game room, and is available for use any time during business hours. New paddles and balls have also been bought for it.
Grab some of your friends, buy a flurry or two (or eight), and enjoy an evening of highly-competitive table tennis!
Anyone who defeats Austin Fox in a game will receive a gift card for FIVE free purchases. If you would like to take on this challenge, please email Austin at afox@stmarychurch.net.
p-w 8th grader Elizabeth rehmann overwhelmed by god's love (september 5)
p-w 8th grader Elizabeth rehmann overwhelmed by god's love (september 5)
For those who have encountered God's love for them before, you know how indescribable of an experience it can be. P-W 8th grader Elizabeth Rehmann was blessed enough to experience His love for her at a recent retreat, and tried to put it into words. She described her life-changing experience below...
the most amazing feeling that could ever be felt: love
the most amazing feeling that could ever be felt: love
By Elizabeth Rehmann
My friends and I went to a really cool retreat at St. Joseph's School, and we never expected what would happen in Adoration. My friends and I were having a blast at the retreat learning all about God's love for us. We had the most amazing group leader named Madiya, and she was a great role model for me.
When all of the groups gathered to go to Adoration, we were given papers that had a lot of Bible verses and quotes on them. They were all about the abundance of God's love for us. So my friends and I were sitting in pews, and some of us were waiting to go to confession. I was one of the ones who was in line for confession. We all were looking at the paper, realizing how deeply God truly loves us. As I was walking into confession my eyes started to water and I started shaking. (I feel bad for the priest who had to try to translate what I was saying).
Well when I got out I started my penance, and when I looked up I saw a few of my friends crying and shaking too. I instantly went over there after I was done with my penance. We could all feel the endless love of God. It felt like waves were crashing on me, making me feel like there was no worry in the world, but I was still shaking and crying at the same time. It felt like we sat there forever thinking, giggling, crying, and shaking. (I guarantee we used about 100 tissues). My friends and I were hugging each other closely and never wanted Adoration to end, we just wanted Jesus to stay in the presence of us forever.
When Adoration did come to a close we didn't want to leave, but we had to because we were the only group still in the church and we had to have a closing meeting. When we got back to the school everyone was looking at us like "What just happened?" Some people asked us what was going on but we couldn't explain what just happened, we just laughed. We were all in shock and I couldn't imagine having this beautiful experience with anyone else.
I feel like I have an even stronger bond with all of my friends now. I will never forget this once in a lifetime experience. God works in such beautiful ways to show us how deeply we are loved, so don't take His love for granted!
registration forms for all of this year's youth ministry programs are now aVAILABLE
registration forms for all of this year's youth ministry programs are now aVAILABLE
Registration forms for all of this school year's youth ministry programs are available in the main entrance of the church, and can be printed off at their respective links below. Forms for The Well, The Mary Program and Middle School Religious Ed. are due back to the parish office by Sep. 3, while forms for Sunday School are due back by Sep. 27. The former three ministry programs begin on Sep. 15, while Sunday School kicks off on Oct. 12.
We have a lot of goals we strive for in each of these ministry programs, including developing a comfort level in praying with others, becoming true soldiers of Christ, nurturing a boldness in our faith, learning the "why" behind so much of what Catholicism teaches, and so much more.
Click the links below to find each ministry's respective registration form. If you have any questions about any of these ministries or would like more information, please email Austin Fox at afox@stmarychurch.net.
This is our program for high schoolers (9th-12th graders), in which we equip our teens with what they'll need to defend, protect and live out the faith. We want them to love Christ so much, that they seek to serve Him and do His will. Be bold, and be a soldier of Christ in this modern world that so badly needs Him!
Our youngsters should know from the earliest of ages that Jesus loves them beyond anything they could ever imagine. And of course, loving Jesus back is FUN!!! Our little ones in Sunday School learn about Who He is through games, activities, and arts and crafts. Any child who is 3-5 years old and potty trained is eligible to sign up.
This ministry is designed for elementary-aged students who don't attend St. Mary's, but would still like Catholic catechesis. Children are taught in small groups, in which their questions about God and Catholicism can be addressed with attentiveness. We strongly believe enthusiasm in our faith is a MUST, so plenty of games and activities are also incorporated. "To Jesus, through Mary!"
Our 7th graders are taught to encounter just Who God is and how much He loves them, while our 8th graders are shown that they're chosen by God for great things in this life. Now teenagers as middle schoolers, we stress the importance of realizing they need to start making the faith their own and living a life for, through and with Christ.
try our new menu items at the ark! (september 2)
try our new menu items at the ark! (september 2)
Buffalo Boneless
Wings
Buffalo Boneless
Wings
Grab either a half pound or full pound of wings doused in our new buffalo sauce! The wings also come in barbecue and garlic parmesan.
Snickers Toppings
Snickers Toppings
Try a flurry (or any kind of ice cream) with crushed-up pieces of Snickers candy in it!
the next world youth day will take place from august 3-8, 2027, in seoul, south korea (August 27)
the next world youth day will take place from august 3-8, 2027, in seoul, south korea (August 27)
World Youth Day has set its dates for its 2027 event, announcing it will take place from Aug. 3-8, 2027, in Seoul, South Korea. Westphalia is currently garnering interest from people in the area to see if it will be worth sending a group out there. Anyone who is 18-35 years old at the time is eligible to come.
World Youth Day only takes place once every several years, and is a worldwide celebration of our Catholic faith. Highlights of the pilgrimage will include Mass with Pope Leo XIV, the visiting of ancient Catholic sites and artifacts, and so much more. The most recent World Youth Day took place in Lisbon, Portugal, in 2023, with Westphalia having sent a group of 17 people to it.
We are not looking for solidified commitments from anyone yet, but would simply like to know if you are potentially interested in coming. If you are, please email Austin Fox at afox@stmarychurch.net.
damon huhn displays wisdom beyond his years, discussing gratefulness, life and death, the stupidity of satan, and so much more (August 26)
damon huhn displays wisdom beyond his years, discussing gratefulness, life and death, the stupidity of satan, and so much more (August 26)
We featured P-W junior Damon Huhn on our podcast this week to discuss some of life's most important topics. At just 16 years old, Damon displayed a wisdom far beyond his years. He displayed incredible maturity while discussing our inevitable death, the Beatific Vision, how the rosary changes you and so much more. You WON'T want to miss this segment.
Why do some women wear veils to mass? claire jandernoa reflects (August 22)
Why do some women wear veils to mass? claire jandernoa reflects (August 22)
What leads one to wear a veil to Mass? Women do for a variety of different reasons, many of which lead back to purity, respect and reverence for Christ, and sometimes even symbolism of being His bride. Claire Jandernoa — who graduated from P-W this past spring — always wears a veil to Mass, and reflects on the discernment process that led up to her doing so.
my journey toward veiling
my journey toward veiling
By Claire Jandernoa
A few years ago I felt God’s quiet whisper telling me He wanted me to start wearing a veil at Mass but I really didn't want to, so I ignored it and made excuses. After a few weeks of doing this, the topic o f women veiling at Mass would randomly come up in conversations I’d have with my friends who did veil at Mass. I’d usually try to change the topic as soon as possible. But it kept happening, and I felt like I had to defend why I didn’t wear a veil so my excuse was, “I don’t know enough about it to do it.” And then I’d never do any research.
A few weeks went by and I thought I was safe from veils, but then I walked into my sister’s room and she had one hanging on her wall! So obviously I pretended I didn’t see it. But without me asking she says, “I’m going to start my journey of veiling because I feel like God’s been asking me to do it.” To which I replied, “That’s awesome! I would too but I just don’t know enough about it,” then I ran out of her room before she could teach me anything about it.
Another few weeks went by and suddenly when I’d go on my phone my feed was filled with videos like: Father Mike Schmitz Talks About Women Wearing Veils, or Why Women Should Cover Their Heads. So naturally I scrolled away from them and turned off my phone. Because if I learned more about veiling than I wouldn’t have my excuse anymore. But a few nights later I was doing my nightly prayer and I came across 1 Corinthians 11:3-16, which talks about why women should have their heads veiled when she prays. I know the Bible is not always meant to be taken literally but this was enough to make me agree with God that I should at least look more into wearing a veil.
While I was researching it I found that women wear veils as a sign of humility, submission, and reverence, but also because of our ability to bear children, women's bodies are sacred. Those honestly sounded like great reasons to wear a veil, on top of the fact that God had been asking me to do it for about 8 months at this point. So my new excuse was that I hate spending money. But God reminded me real quick that someone had already given me a gift certificate to Our Lady of Fatima book store.
Once God took away all my excuses I realized the real reason I was avoiding it was because I was scared. Not only was I scared of what people would think; but I realized later that I was scared of isolation. I was afraid that by doing something different that people might not understand, they’d only see me as “that girl who wears a veil” even outside of Mass and they’d treat me differently. In hindsight, this is really dramatic, but I’ve learned that the enemy is really good at making God’s plan seem terrible when it’s really awesome. At this point, I had no excuses, it was just me and my fear and I knew I couldn't continue to avoid God’s will.
I called one of my best friends, who happens to wear a veil, and I asked her if she would go with me to pick out a veil. When I asked her she got so excited for me! When we got to Our Lady of Fatima, one of my other best friends, who doesn’t wear a veil, was working and she was able to help us pick out a veil for me. When I got home I surprised my sister with my veil and she was so excited for me. I didn’t even realize then but God surrounded me with faith-filled women who loved me at a time that I was fearing isolation. However, none of them were free that night to go to Mass with me.
It was a Wednesday night, which meant I’d be going to Mass at St. Mary’s, not my home parish of St. Joseph’s. I was terrified to wear my veil by myself and not in my home parish, but I also knew that if I let fear stop me that night, I may never actually start wearing my veil, so I decided to finally just trust God and do it.
I’ve worn a veil to every Mass I’ve gone to since then. It’s not always easy, sometimes it’s still scary; especially when I wear it somewhere new. But God has given me so many graces through it. Wearing my veil challenges me to trust God and His will for me, it also reminds me of the woman that God created me to be. Even when I’m scared and God has to meet me where I’m at, it gives me a greater desire to strive more and more to become that woman.
some exciting updates at the ark! (august 16)
some exciting updates at the ark! (august 16)
With the P-W school year beginning on Aug. 25, we are excited to announce some some exciting changes at The Ark!
• We will be reverting back to our school year hours the week of Aug. 25. We'll be closed each Monday through Wednesday beginning that week, but open every Thursday through Sunday (the hours will remain the same on those four days).
• How would you now like to eat your ice cream at The Ark out of ..... well ...... an ark??! 😅. Come try our new ark serving boats (pictured), with room for up to three different flavors in each!
• Be on the lookout for a new sauce for our boneless wings in the near future. 😉
• While we originally planned for Michigan Deer Traxx to be just a summer flavor, its popularity has landed it a permanent spot on our menu!
• Looking for a new topping for your ice cream or flurry? Look no further, as Snickers toppings will soon be on the menu!
• We have a prayer book on top of our drink cooler that we love taking your prayer requests in. If you've ever written an intention in there, please know we as a staff prayed for each one intently this past Monday. Your prayers are being heard. 🙏
p-w 8th grader eden pung shares powerful encounter with god's love (august 13)
p-w 8th grader eden pung shares powerful encounter with god's love (august 13)
To be impacted by God's love at a young age can be a life-changing occurrence, and that's exactly what happened to P-W eighth grader Eden Pung. She tells the story of how she was overcome by God's infinite love at a retreat this past winter, and the impact it had on both her and her friends.
my reminder of love
my reminder of love
By Eden Pung
Joy and God’s love had been shared the whole night. I was at a youth middle school retreat that was 5 hours long. We played games, watched skits, and listened to testimonies. We split off into small groups and were asked the question, “If you could describe your relationship with God in a few words what would you say?” No one in my group spoke up so I responded, “not as close as I would like.” Little did I know that would all change.
We gathered back up and had a home cooked meal for dinner, then got ready for adoration. We started adoration by walking into the Church with instrumental music playing, and finding our seats. I sat down and waited for everyone else to fill in the pews behind. Once the pews were filled, the NET members put on a skit reminding us that God loves us so much, and He will forgive us no matter what.
All of a sudden I was shaking and on the verge of tears. The feeling slowly went away and I sang along to the worship song that everyone else was singing. Our small group leaders gave us a few papers. One paper was a guide to reconciliation and the other was a love letter from Jesus to me. I quickly glanced through it not thinking much about it, then thoroughly I read through it. That feeling came back to me and this time I couldn't fight back the tears anymore. Our group leaders prayed over us and everyone was going to confession and feeling amazing afterwards. I knew that I was crying for a reason and that many people probably felt the same way.
When one of my friends got back from her time of reconciliation she saw me crying, sat next to me and gave me a hug. She too started crying because she had been feeling the same way and all of the Lord’s love was being shared. Shortly after, four more of my friends came over, sat by me and started hugging me as well. At one point we were all shedding tear after tear because of God’s immense love for us. It was one of the most incredible things that I have ever felt in my life. The joy and love that everyone was feeling made me cry harder. I felt closer to those 5 people in that moment more than ever and I will never forget my experience. God’s love was truly present and it was so unbelievable that others felt the same way just by being near me.
Even though I felt God’s intense love at this moment, I learned a valuable lesson that I carry with me wherever I go: Love is something that can sometimes seem impossible to feel but is never impossible to receive.
p-w junior renell eklund shares some beautiful tips on how to involve god in practical ways (august 11)
p-w junior renell eklund shares some beautiful tips on how to involve god in practical ways (august 11)
Involving God in our daily activities is oftentimes a challenge for people. P-W junior Renell Eklund shares some practical tips, though, on how she involves God in some of the routine activities of daily life. She also points out the importance of turning to God when things in life are going good, and not only when we're in need.
turning to god
turning to god
By Renell Eklund
When Austin asked me to write this, I was pretty confused on what to write about because I haven’t gone through anything extremely traumatic or had any crazy miracle happen to me. I’ve had my ups and downs with my faith but it has always been there.
As a 6th grader in St. Mary's, my faith life was very strong because I was always surrounded by it. Then when I got to PW in 7th grade I had to make sure to set aside time for the Lord. I like to read a devotional every night before bed and pray about the day I just had and what will be happening the next day. I tend to turn to God when things get tough and ask Him to help me through the moment. I need to learn to thank God when times are good.
I have been trying to thank God every night for what went well that day instead of always complaining about what went wrong. In Deuteronomy 31:6 it says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”
This shows that God wants to hear all of our problems good and bad. It shows that He will not leave you when you make mistakes. If you are in a rough patch with your faith try to do simple things like praying before bed and before meals and always remember God will not abandon you.
p-w senior jalen thelen sheds light on how family and friends have shaped his faith life (August 5)
p-w senior jalen thelen sheds light on how family and friends have shaped his faith life (August 5)
P-W senior Jalen Thelen shares a powerful testimony on the role family and friends have played in his life, especially as it pertains to his relationship with God. Jalen opens up about ups and downs, times of trial, and so much more, all of which has culminated in a beautiful closeness with Jesus Christ.
Are your family and friends bringing you closer to Christ?
the importance of family AND FRIENDS
the importance of family AND FRIENDS
By Jalen Thelen
Hello everybody! For anyone who doesn't know me, my name is Jalen Thelen. I am going to be a senior this year at P-W! My faith journey started like most people's did, growing up in a Catholic family, going to church every weekend, praying before meals, etc., etc. However, as I got older, it became harder and harder to keep my faith a priority in my life. Life gets absolutely crazy and just the small things like praying for me, just slipped my mind at times. I am sure that I am not the only teenager that feels that way. However, I knew that this needed to change, so that I can go to heaven and live a life with eternal peace.
As I got into middle school, I got made fun of a lot, and I felt so alone at periods of time. I would pray and pray to God for help and his continued strength and courage. However, I just never felt like things were getting better. However, this is when God blessed me with my two best friends to this day, Kiera Pohl and Eli Thelen. These two showed me the true definition of friendship and showed me that people like that don't matter. They also showed me how to keep my relationship with God strong. As an 8th grader, I got the opportunity to attend our annual Steubenville trip with the parish. My parents were always extremely supportive in any way when it came to my faith. So, when I told them about this trip, they were so excited for me :)
One of the things that kids always talked about was the Saturday night adoration and how powerful it is for people. That whole week leading up to Steubenville, I was very nervous. So, every day, I prayed to God and asked him to keep me safe and to help me open myself up to Him. That Saturday night adoration truly changed my life and helped me learn new ways to open up to the Lord. This helped mend my relationship for a good period of time.
However, during high school I started to struggle again. Junior year was one of the hardest years for me. I had a really hard time in school, my grades weren't as good as I wanted them to be, and there were still classmates that made fun of me as well. This is when my relationship with the Lord started to go downhill, and I wasn't as close with God as much as I thought I would be. At this point in my life I felt so alone and did not think anyone would understand what I was going through. However, I was wrong. My family and friends were actually just what I needed during this rough patch in my life. As I got older, I have made so many friends, and I am forever grateful for the friendships that I have made, and I still have to this day.
These people are the reason that I made it through my junior year, and they helped show me how to fix my relationship with God. For example, this past year I was asked to go on ASB (alternative spring break) with the church. I was very up in the air for a long time, thinking that wasn't for me. Then my best friends Kiera and Eli both said, "You don't have to go, I just think that you are going to regret it if you don't give a try." So, after some prayer, I thought why not, I get to make an impact on people's lives, let's do it. Going there and seeing the people's houses and their living situations really put into perspective how incredibly lucky we are for everything we have. Also on this trip, I got to meet so many people from our parish that have now made so many impacts in my life. I will forever be grateful for this trip.
In summary, I would just like to say a few things:
1. Never be afraid to open up to your family and friends when you are struggling.
2. If you ever need advice about your relationship with God, NEVER be afraid to reach out to your friends and family!
3. Never be afraid to stand up for what is right!
Your family and friends want nothing more than for you to reach out when you're struggling.
These are just a few points that I have learned over the years. Family and friends have helped me so much in my life and have changed me and my relationship with God for the better. Forever grateful for this community and how it's brought me closer to Christ!!
— God Bless!!
four students speak about their steubenville experience
four students speak about their steubenville experience
P-W's 52 students returned from their Steubenville youth retreat on July 27 with a renewed fire and passion for our Lord. One day later, we gathered once again to discuss how we felt God's presence throughout the weekend. Four courageous students got up to share with everyone in attendance what the weekend was like for them, and how they felt the Holy Spirit working in their hearts. Their videos are below...
*Lilly Rooks (Senior)
*Elyse Thelen (Senior)
*Anna Miller (Freshman)
*Tyler Spitzley (Senior)
brigid flynn shares wise words on how god speaks to us in the silence (july 30)
brigid flynn shares wise words on how god speaks to us in the silence (july 30)
Though she is just 17 years old, Brigid Flynn shares some incredible words of wisdom regarding how God speaks to us in our lives. The P-W senior-to-be talks about the importance of silence in a day and age that is filled with constant distractions. Hence the title, Brigid emphasizes the importance of being still and letting God work in our hearts in the stillness.
we need only to be still
we need only to be still
By Brigid Flynn
My name is Brigid. I’m 17 years old and I’m starting my senior year of high school, and I’d say my faith life is pretty similar to a lot of people in my small home town. I was born and raised Catholic, have always practiced my faith, and grown up going to Mass every week and holy day. I’ve always kind of done what I’m supposed to and have never really had any significant visions or conversions occur to me or anything like that. I could be called, as some people say, a cradle Catholic. However, I sincerely love the Lord or at least try my best to, and I realize that my relationship with Him is as beautiful as any, and it is my own. I have had no life changing experiences like some, but I still have the Father, His Son, His Mother, and the Holy Spirit, who have all been gently leading me toward them, especially within these past few years.
In the modern world, it is hard to imitate the lives of the saints who, for example, lived in the 1500s with frequent silence, minimal distractions, etc. You would probably be looked down upon in modern society if you left your family for solitude in order to find God in nature like the famous monks such as Saint Benedict did, or try to cover your beauty up to scare off suitors like Saint Rose of Lima, but we are all called to be saints with our own stories, especially in our current world, the 21st century.
Not to say that there were no distractions or busyness back then, but in our lives now, we have the great struggle and temptation of the media, which can be sincerely difficult to overcome and be disciplined in when using — but with new times comes new struggles. After all, our striving for sainthood should look different than it did back then. And although I am convinced of my general ignorance on the subject of sainthood, there are a few small things I have learned in my life so far that have helped me to grow and learn in my Catholic Faith.
I’ve had my ups and downs, bends and curves, feelings of anxiety and loneliness, but through it all God has given me the gift of knowing that He is always there. That is something I have continually fallen back on in times of spiritual dryness or hardship. He is always there, we need only to be still (Exodus 14:14) and let Him come to us. I’m not quite sure when or how my trust in the Lord’s presence was established in my heart — probably at Baptism, when the Holy Spirit came upon me, and reinforced at Confirmation, when I was given more grace through the Holy Spirit to live out my faith, but I have always known in my soul, He is there.
Now this isn’t to say I can always feel His presence profoundly, or hear Him speak to me in a clear voice, but He is there, reigning over my heart and urging me to come closer to Him. For me, Jesus speaks mostly through the Holy Spirit and through silence, especially in prayer. God has always been very gentle with me, He knows my heart and knows the best way to speak to me. Of course, the Lord speaks differently to everyone. Some may respond better to signs or clear, loud messages. Although I sometimes wish this were the case for me, I was once told that when we are right with God, with no mortal sin on our soul and have been trying to grow closer to Him, He will give us the freedom to make certain decisions and choices and will bless them whatever way we choose.
A clear sign on which path to take, which college to go to, or what job to accept may not actually be needed. The Holy Spirit and Mother Mary have been a great help to me in this. The former has inspired me, given me promptings and thoughts on decisions to make, ways to live, and has soothed any anxieties I may ever feel. The latter has been a source of comfort, love, and THE example of womanly virtue. Although human love can be fulfilling at times and every person desires to be loved, we are imperfect which means our love is imperfect, but Mama Mary is always ready to love us.
We have a spiritual mother in heaven just waiting to be called upon to comfort us, love us, bring our needs to her son, and give us the graces needed for holiness in this life. They are my biggest friends in Heaven. God has also given me many good role models and holy men and women to imitate like my parents, siblings, friends, and classmates. If I can offer one piece of advice or inspiration, it would just be to sit in silence with Him. It seems like silence goes against everything our popular culture says, and I believe that silence is the best way in which Our Lord speaks to us. We may not hear a clear voice telling us exactly what to do, but over time, when we look back on certain moments in our lives, we will realize that He was working all the time, and attuning our hearts to His without us even being aware.
a blessed weekend for our youth in steubenville
a blessed weekend for our youth in steubenville
P-W took 52 students down to Steubenville, Ohio, from July 25-27 for its annual youth conference, and the weekend could not have been more blessed. So many of our youngsters left with stories of how they felt God's love on a deeper level than they'd ever felt before. That weekend is intended to strengthen each youngster's relationship with Christ and teach them how to be true disciples in the faith, and it's safe to say both of things happened.
Thank you to everyone who donated financially to help fund this trip, and for keeping us in your prayers.
What does it mean to "walk by faith?" Soon-to-be 8th grader faith rooks explains (july 21)
What does it mean to "walk by faith?" Soon-to-be 8th grader faith rooks explains (july 21)
Jesus Christ calls us to "walk by faith, not by sight," but that is much easier said than done for most of us. We can draw inspiration, however, from P-W's Faith Rooks, who explains what this verse from 2 Corinthians means to her.
walk by faith
walk by faith
By Faith Rooks
"Walk by faith, not by sight." — 2 Corinthians 5:7
I have lived by this bible verse before I even knew about it. When I was in second grade, I switched schools and didn’t know anyone. I knew I had to trust God and have faith that I would be ok. Looking back I realize that I was walking by faith, not by sight.
A couple years later I experienced some difficult life changes again, and I lost some loved ones. I was sad for a while but reading one of my favorite prayer books, praying with my family, and making new friends — I was walking by faith and not by sight. This gives me joy and happiness.
I understand what this bible verse means now. I might not always understand life and what it throws at me, but I do know that I have to walk by faith and not by sight. I might not always be able to see God's will but knowing that Jesus is walking with me, I have faith.
I also have faith that Mary, the Holy Spirit, and my guardian angel will guard me, guide me, and protect me. I pray that God helps me to keep growing in my Catholic faith. I hope to always live by my favorite bible verse: Walk by faith, not by sight.
recently-graduated p-w student jensen fox opens up about his unique faith journey (july 16)
recently-graduated p-w student jensen fox opens up about his unique faith journey (july 16)
People who go through RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) oftentimes have a deeper appreciation for the beauty of our Catholic faith. Jensen Fox joined RCIA in the fall of 2024 as a senior in high school, and was administered the sacrament of Confirmation at the Easter Vigil in 2025. He opened up about his unique journey during the program, and revealed where God may be calling him next.
donation envelopes for our steubenville students are available IN THE ENTRANCES OF THE CHURCH
donation envelopes for our steubenville students are available IN THE ENTRANCES OF THE CHURCH
Donation envelopes are available in all the entrances of the church for anyone who would like to financially help out the students attending this summer's Steubenville retreat (July 25-27). Anything you're willing to contribute is so greatly appreciated, and helps our students out immensely. Donors can contribute to individual students or to the group as a whole. There is a paper inside each envelope with more instructions. Please keep our 52 attendees in prayer as they seek a deeper relationship with our Lord on this retreat.
Lexi Bengel Hayden Reitz
Leslie Bernal-Ponce Lilly Rooks
Mariah Beuschel Kate Schafer
Brianna Feldpausch Jackson Schmitz
Alannah Flynn Haley Serba
Brigid Flynn Addisyn Smith
Nolan George Brooke Smith
Jeshua Glennon Jackson Smith
Zebedee Glennon Joslyn Smith
Audrey Hengesbach Kendra Smith
Claire Jandernoa Tyler Spitzley
Rachel Jandernoa Adelyn Thelen
Ellie Keilen Ava Thelen (From Pewamo)
John Kowatch Brady Thelen
Reagan Kowatch Brenna Thelen
Jude Lockard Eli Thelen
Adrian Miller Ella Thelen
Alivia Miller Elyse Thelen (From Pewamo)
Anna Miller Elyse Thelen (From Westphalia)
Brock Nurenberg Emeric Thelen
Hudson Nurenberg Grant Thelen
Aubrey Pline Lainey Thelen
Will Pung Owen Thelen
Ben Rehmann Reylee Thelen
Ellika Reitz Sam Thelen
Sidney Thelen
Nathan Weber
nathan weber thankful for the religious freedom that we have here in america (july 9)
nathan weber thankful for the religious freedom that we have here in america (july 9)
Have you ever thought about how blessed we are to have the religious freedoms that we have here in America? In light of Fourth of July weekend, P-W senior-to-be Nathan Weber provides a powerful reminder of the blessings Christ has given us in this country, including the ability to spread His word to others. Are you taking advantage of that ability?
Mariah beuschel's powerful story of the comfort she received from god during a time of tragedy (july 5)
Mariah beuschel's powerful story of the comfort she received from god during a time of tragedy (july 5)
Though she just recently wrapped up her freshman year at P-W, Mariah Beuschel is mature beyond her years. A family tragedy forced her to grow up much faster than most kids her age; with that tragedy, though, has come immense trust in God. Instead of being angry with God during a time of death and sadness, Mariah found an overwhelming peace and comfort from Him. This is her story...
A message from god
A message from god
By Mariah Beuschel
God works in mysterious ways. I have found these words to be true in many different aspects of my life. God never fails to show His love for us and to make His presence known. One of these times happened to me almost 3 years ago when I was 11.
It was right after my dad got in a car accident, which would later lead to his death. At this time my dad was still alive, but he was unconscious in the hospital. It had been less than 3 days after his accident. I am pretty sure that I went to bed crying that night. I was so overwhelmed. The closest person to me in the world was in the ICU and I couldn’t do anything about it. I couldn’t talk to him, and at that point I hadn’t even seen him. That was a hard week for me. So a few days after his accident I went to lie down in my bed, just like I do every night. I went to bed feeling sad and very distressed. I was already missing my dad and was extremely worried about him. I lied down, closed my eyes, and fell asleep.
I was in a busy area with cars driving by me fast. There were lots of buildings surrounding me. I realized that I was in Comstock Park, MI. This is where the funeral home that my mom and dad built, Beuschel Funeral Home, was located. In my dream I walked into a building that looked like my family’s old funeral home, but I knew that it wasn’t. As soon as I walked in, it felt off right away. There were no lights on, but I was able to see 3 men in front of me yelling at a younger man who was sitting in a chair. I walked in right as they were talking about how they should kill him, when the boss yelled, “Get her!” I sprinted out of the building as fast as I could, but I didn’t know where to go. I saw a building farther down the road and ran into it.
As soon as I ran into the building, I realized that the bad guys were no longer behind me. I had lost them. I exhaled and looked around. I was surprised to find that I was in the funeral home, except somehow it had changed. Usually there is a sad atmosphere about the building. It feels wrong to ever smile in there, even if you are just a little kid excited to see your dad at work. The funeral home was brighter than I had ever seen it before and everyone had smiles on their faces. They were talking to one another and everyone looked happy. There wasn’t a sad person in sight. I looked to the left where my dad’s office was and saw my dad standing up.
He was wearing his suit and smiling at me. He had the biggest smile on his face that I had ever seen. It was warm and comforting and he said that everything was going to be fine. He looked immaculate to me. That was the best that I had ever seen him before; he looked truly happy and almost appeared to be glowing. The way he smiled at me made me feel that everything was going to be ok. At that moment all he was thinking about was me. I was the only thing that mattered to him. We both looked at each other with huge smiles on our faces, and then suddenly I woke up.
I was disappointed that my dream was over. I didn’t want it to end. I knew that if I had stayed asleep for a few more seconds that I would have run into his arms and he would have given me a giant hug. But I also knew that I had received what God intended. I knew as soon as I woke up that God was sending me a message. He was letting me know that everything would be alright. He was watching me, and no matter what happened, He would take care of me. He knew that I was in pain and He was doing His best to soothe it. At the end of my dream it felt almost as if I were in heaven. There were smiling people all around me, without a care in the world. They all seemed like friends towards one another. The atmosphere was so peaceful and joyful.
At the end it reminded me of the Prodigal Son parable. My dad looked so joyful when he saw me, and I was filled with joy too. My dad was waiting for me and welcoming me. When I walked through the doors it felt as what I imagine heaven would feel like. It felt like a great weight had been lifted off of me. I had no worries anymore and everything was as it should be. Sin could no longer touch me. Nothing could harm me any longer — not sin, not sorrow, my problems no longer existed. At that moment I was perfectly happy and I knew when I woke up that even if I never saw my dad again, everything would be all right.
customers will now receive a free small ice cream at the ark on THE DAY OF their birthday
customers will now receive a free small ice cream at the ark on THE DAY OF their birthday
If you swing by The Ark on the day of your birthday, you will now receive a free small ice cream, of any flavor of your choosing! It's important to note that it must be on the day of your birthday. All of our flavors are listed below:
Soft-Serve Flavors:
Vanilla
Chocolate
Twist
Hand-Dipped Flavors:
Triple Peanut Butter cup
Cookie Dough
Strawberry Cheesecake
Mint Chocolate Chip
Cake Batter
Superman
Butter Pecan
Michigan Deer Traxx
lillian simon's positivity for life & enthusiasm for her faith shines through on "Growing with god" podcast (june 23)
lillian simon's positivity for life & enthusiasm for her faith shines through on "Growing with god" podcast (june 23)
To say P-W senior-to-be Lillian Simon has an enthusiasm about her for both life and for Jesus Christ would be a huge understatement, and that optimism showed through in a big way on our podcast. Lillian leads by example for both classmates and four younger sisters at home, and talks about having others see Christ in her. You won't want to miss this unique tradition her family does to honor various saints, one that includes ... honey sticks and dead beetles?!
evelyn simon kicks off our "in their own words" series with a powerful testimony (june 19)
evelyn simon kicks off our "in their own words" series with a powerful testimony (june 19)
We're excited to introduce a new series called "In Their own Words," in which our community's teens have the chance to share how God is working in their lives. Pope John Paul II once said during his papacy the best way for young people to evangelize in this day and age is to share their testimony.
Evelyn Simon, who recently wrapped up her 7th-grade year, has shown an immense amount of boldness in sharing with the world an experience she recently had with the Holy Spirit. Thank you, Evelyn, for your witness to Christ.
“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." — Mark 16:15
We want to make talking about Christ and His word a way of life for our teens. This is Evelyn's story...
the amazing embrace
the amazing embrace
By Evelyn Simon
Today was the day I had been looking forward to for a long time! I get to go to the St. Joe's retreat in Pewamo with some of my friends and some cousins! When I found out I got to go to this retreat I was very excited and for around two weeks, I had been waiting for the day I finally got to go! I had never gone to a retreat like this one. It was very fun, and we did many things! When we got there that night we didn't really know what to expect. But once we got there we put our stuff away and got to play some games for a while – me and most of my friends decided to play volleyball!
After everyone was there our leaders said to find a seat and look at them so we did, and they started by just talking about why they do this retreat. They said that they love to travel around, meet new people and spread their faith. After they did the introduction they did some faith skits for us; they were just some little skits on how to be polite and easy things like that! Next they split us into groups. I was with two of my closest friends and one of my closest cousins!
In the groups we started by introducing ourselves. After that our leader asked us how we felt about our relationship with God. I didn't really know how to explain my relationship but then one of my friends stood up and said how they felt, and that encouraged me to try and say how I felt. We were in groups for a while and then we went all together again and our leaders did a few more skits, we played a few games, and then we had dinner! It was all going so well and it was so fun!
Next we got back with our groups and they said we were going to head over to the church and have adoration! This is when everything started to hit me! When we got to the church the leaders did a few more skits, and then one leader played us music on her guitar. They handed out packets with songs on them so we could sing along! I loved sitting in the presence of the monstrance and just letting God talk to me and say whatever He wanted. After we sang and had skits they let us go to confession and just sit in adoration. I went to confession right away, and so did many of my friends. After confession I went back to my pew and sat there for a little longer. Then one of my friends started to cry and shake! When that happened I really just felt the urge to go and sit by her! So I did, and I could just feel the Holy Spirit go from her to me! This was an indescribable feeling!
The only words that come to my mind when I try to explain this is the Holy Spirit was “raining on me.” All of a sudden as I'm sitting by my friend I start to shake and cry as well. Next some of my other friends came over and the same thing happened. They started to shake and cry. Even my cousin who wasn't even super close to the rest of my friends was sitting with us and also started to shake and cry! This was like a chain reaction and it was amazing! After this when adoration was over we all left the church and went back to our groups crying! In our groups we talked about what happened and it was just proof that the Lord is here and loves me!
I will never forget this experience and I will forever feel grateful that I got to experience this! Ever since this retreat I have been closer to my friends and we have gone to many more Catholic things together! I am also definitely closer to the Lord! I hope that anyone who reads this or heard about this can also just see that the Lord God is good and is with us no matter what! God bless!
world youth day 2027 is in seoul, south korea: gauging interest to see who may want to go
world youth day 2027 is in seoul, south korea: gauging interest to see who may want to go
The next World Youth Day will take place in Seoul, South Korea, in the summer of 2027, and we are gauging interest to see whether or not it'll be worth sending a group from St. Mary's. Official dates have not yet been set, but the event typically lasts about 10 days (this includes air travel). Anyone who is 18-35 years old (come 2027) is welcome to attend.
It is worth noting this is a pilgrimage that is oftentimes physically demanding, while walking long distances each day and living out of one's backpack. It's also a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, however, that will include Mass with Pope Leo, as well as the unity of millions of Catholics worldwide to celebrate both the beauty and universality of our faith.
We are not looking for commitments from anyone at the moment, but would just simply like to know if you might POTENTIALLY be interested in coming on this pilgrimage. If you think it's something you may like to attend, please email Austin Fox at afox@stmarychurch.net.
Westphalia sent 17 people to Lisbon, Portugal, two years ago on the most recent World Youth Day pilgrimage, during what was a life-changing trip for many of its attendees.
we would love your help at the westphalia car show
we would love your help at the westphalia car show
We are looking for some help selling gravy burgers and brats outside The Ark at the annual Westphalia Car Show on Thursday, June 12, and would appreciate it greatly if you'd be willing to sign up here for a shift: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UGvFuiPtcyYuZaOxgh22MNMdWbMIF9RsPFfhte7u4MA/edit?usp=sharing
We are in search of both students and adults to help out. This is such a great way to get involved in the community and lend a helping hand, all the while spending quality time with friends. Anyone who works a shift will receive a free meal.
The inside of The Ark will open at 1:00 that day, while the outdoor gravy burger stand will begin selling at 11:30 AM.
A sausage sale/bake sale fundraiser will be held june 7th and 8th in the st. mary's cafeteria
A sausage sale/bake sale fundraiser will be held june 7th and 8th in the st. mary's cafeteria
Sausage and a wide variety of delicious baked goods will be available in the St. Mary's Cafeteria after all the Masses on June 7th and 8th. The fundraiser will benefit our P-W teens attending the Steubenville youth conference this July. Sausage will be sold in both links and in frozen bulk, and will be sold for $6 per pound (while supplies last). We plan to sell from 5:30-6:30 on Saturday, June 7, and from 9:00-12:00 on Sunday, June 8. Some of the baked goods that will be for sale will include monster cookie bars, scotcheroos, no bake cookies, puppy chow, cheesecakes and much more!
our thursday morning bible study crew wraps up the year (june 5)
our thursday morning bible study crew wraps up the year (june 5)
Thursday morning Bible Study wrapped up on June 5, capping off what was another blessed school year. The students who attended on a regular basis showed an immense devoutness to their faith and to our Lord. Thursday morning Bible Study will resume once again in September when the 2025-2026 school year starts; in the meantime, we will meet each Thursday night at 7:30 at The Ark throughout the summer. All are welcome!
michigan deer traxx is now available at the ark! (June 4)
michigan deer traxx is now available at the ark! (June 4)
The community spoke ... and we listened!!! Michigan Deer Traxx is now available at The Ark, and will be all summer!! It's made up of peanut butter cups and thick chocolate fudge in a vanilla ice cream base. Swing by any time this summer and try this delicious new ice cream in a cone, bowl or flurry!
Bible Study
Bible Study
Every Thursday morning at 7:00 AM in the P-W library during the school year. During the summer, we meet once a week at The Ark on Thursday nights at 7:30. We read Scripture and dive into what the week's readings are telling us. Donuts are served on occasion. ALL students are welcome!
REGISTRATION FOR OUR 2025 STEUBENVILLE TRIP HAS CLOSED
REGISTRATION FOR OUR 2025 STEUBENVILLE TRIP HAS CLOSED
Registration for this summer's Steubenville trip ended on May 23, but please check back in again for our 2026 trip!
the ark is now open 7 days a week! (may 21)
the ark is now open 7 days a week! (may 21)
Beginning on May 21, we're excited to announce that The Ark will now be open seven days a week for the summer! Our summer hours are...
Monday-Thursday: 5:00-9:00 PM
Friday-Saturday: 6:00-11:00 PM
Sunday: 5:00-9:00 PM
The Ark is a great place for teens and adults alike to gather and talk about Jesus Christ and their faith, while enjoying a variety of delicious hand-dipped and soft-served ice cream flavors, flurries and sundaes. Though known for ice cream, we have a variety of fried foods as well. Our entire menu is below.
Fried Food:
French Fries
Fries With Chicken
Chicken Strips
Boneless Wings
Fried Pickles
Pretzel Bites
Mozzarella Sticks
Mac 'N Cheese Bites
Drinks:
Water
Pop
Gatorade
Soft-Serve Flavors:
Vanilla
Chocolate
Twist
Hand-Dipped Flavors:
Triple Peanut Butter cup
Cookie Dough
Strawberry Cheesecake
Mint Chocolate Chip
Cake Batter
Superman
Butter Pecan
Michigan Deer Traxx
Flurry Toppings:
Butterfinger
Cheesecake
Cookie Dough
Brownie
Reese's Peanut Butter cup
Twix
Heath
Oreo
Kit kat
M&M
Sundae Toppings:
Hot Fudge
Caramel
Nuts
Sprinkles
Daydreaming About ice Cream
Mac 'N Cheese Bites
Brownie Flurry
Chicken and Fries
Mozzarella Sticks
Reese's Peanut Butter cup ice Cream
Boneless Wings
HE FINALLY GOT HIS ICE CREAM!
Brynn Feldpausch Appears on the Latest Episode of the "Growing With God" Podcast (MAY 14)
Brynn Feldpausch Appears on the Latest Episode of the "Growing With God" Podcast (MAY 14)
P-W sophomore Brynn Feldpausch provides some inspiring words on the roles that the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Holy Spirit have played in her life. She also talks about how she helped spread Jesus Christ to our town's little ones as a Sunday School teacher this year, as the 4-and-5-year olds taught her some things about our faith as well.
p-w senior lane trierweiler delivers a powerful message to his fellow high schoolers on the importance of staying close to christ as you get older (April 14)
p-w senior lane trierweiler delivers a powerful message to his fellow high schoolers on the importance of staying close to christ as you get older (April 14)
P-W senior Lane Trierweiler delivered a powerful message to his fellow high schoolers at the final class at The Well on April 14, explaining how important it is to maintain a closeness with Jesus Christ as you grow up, graduate from high school and become an adult.
p-w students help those in need in appalachia during our alternative spring break trip
p-w students help those in need in appalachia during our alternative spring break trip
Twelve P-W students graciously spent their spring break in Eastern Appalachia, working alongside Christian Appalachian Project to help local residents in need in one of the most poverty-stricken regions of the U.S. They worked on home repairs and several other projects, all in an effort to bring Christ's love to those who need it most. It was a week of laughter, fellowship and a deepening connection with our Lord. Here are some pictures from the week!
our community's little ones "graduate" from sunday school
(march 23)
our community's little ones "graduate" from sunday school
(march 23)
Sunday School came to a close on March 23, with a "graduation" ceremony for all the little ones who learned about Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith throughout the school year. All the kids sang a song about Jesus to the audience, before receiving their diplomas and capping things off with donuts! We'd like to give a special thanks to Lauren Hengesbach, Danielle Thelen, Bethany Schneider and Brianne Thelen for helping run class throughout the year, as well as all the high school students who helped teach the kids. The future of our community is in good hands. 🙏
Westphalia's matt myers shares his testimony of alcoholism, eventual sobriety and reconnection with god with the p-w high schoolers (March 3)
Westphalia's matt myers shares his testimony of alcoholism, eventual sobriety and reconnection with god with the p-w high schoolers (March 3)
Westphalia parishioner Matt Myers courageously shares his powerful life testimony with the P-W high schoolers at The Well, one that consisted of a life of alcoholism before eventually rediscovering God's love for him. Matt's reinvestment in his faith saved his marriage, friendships, and led him out of a life of sin.
p-w sophomore trinity pohl delivers an inspirational talk aT the well (February 10)
p-w sophomore trinity pohl delivers an inspirational talk aT the well (February 10)
P-W sophomore Trinity Pohl courageously shared her faith story with her fellow high schoolers at The Well on Feb. 10, explaining how her deep relationship with our Lord has grown over the years. Trusting in Him through life's challenges (including anxiety) is one of the primary themes of her talk. To quote one listener afterward — "This sounds like a future saint speaking."
brendan fox shares his faith journey with the p-w high schoolers, how he knows catholicism is the one, truth faith (january 20)
brendan fox shares his faith journey with the p-w high schoolers, how he knows catholicism is the one, truth faith (january 20)
Westphalia's Brendan Fox delivers a relatable talk on things most of us have struggled with as Catholics, such as how to answer those who challenge us on our faith and why we believe what we believe. Brendan, now a devout man of Christ with a wife and two kids, explains how a certain Bible verse involving Jesus and Peter helped him realize Catholicism is the one, true faith.
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