"WHERE two or three are gathered in my name, I am there."
- MT 18:20

In 2013, Saint Andrew and Saint Benedict Parishes began working together in select ministries. During the 2020 Renew My Church (RMC) initiative led by the Archdiocese of Chicago, it was determined that both parishes would remain independent but enter a covenant to support each other and the surrounding community. This covenant encourages mutual benefit, grounded in the belief that “In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” (Romans 5:12).

The covenant between Saint Andrew and Saint Benedict Parishes calls the two communities to unite in the mission of building the kingdom of God. We are not united parishes by the RMC definition, but parishes united in mission. Together, we aim to enhance our ministry impact, engage with the surrounding community, and foster a spirit of co-responsibility and collaboration.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE COVENANT

As part of the covenant between Saint Andrew and Saint Benedict, we are called to unite some of our efforts to follow Christ and extend His mercy to all, while maintaining our unique identities.

We commit to:

· Communion: Emphasizing the Eucharist

· Community: Uniting in discipleship

· Compassion: Welcoming all with love

The Guiding Principles of the covenant include:

  • Intentional Actions: Purpose-driven outreach to parishioners and the community

  • Support Schools: Each parish continues to support its school

  • Volunteer Engagement: Recruit and inspire new volunteers for outreach and evangelization

  • Targeted Outreach: Identify and reach out to underserved individuals

  • Transparency: Maintain clear communication and transparency throughout the process

Next week, we will meet the members of the covenant team.

WHO IS ON THE COVENANT TEAM?

· The Covenant Implementation Team (CIT) includes clergy, staff and parishioners from both parishes, some of whom were involved in the early stages of development and others who have joined more recently to help move the covenant forward. The Vision Element Leads, who are part of the CIT, oversee specific focus areas for collaborative work. The focus areas are:

o Communication and Outreach

o Relationship Building

o Leadership Development

Members of the CIT are listed below. Do you recognize a name you know? Or do you want to get involved? Please reach out to any member of the team!

o Fr. Sergio Romo and Fr. Tom Refermat

o David Heimann and Kim McMillan

o Bruno Beccaria, Olivia Carlson, Kevin Eiden, DJ Glascott*, Robin McCue, Mike McGreal, Patrick Sullivan, Gabe Villarreal*

o Kathy Minneci, Maggie Bahler Rizzio*, Daisy Schmookler, Ryan Stecz

*Vision Element Leads

Next week, learn about upcoming events and how you can get involved.

Check the website for more info. Saint Andrew [click here], Saint Benedict [click here])