St. Luke’s Parish
Philippine Independent Church
261 W. Army Trail Road
Bloomingdale, IL 60108

                                                                                                                                                                                                                    December 8, 2010


Dear _____________________________________,

          As we say goodbye to 2010, I can’t help but reminisce the journey that we have shared together, as a pilgrim community.  For me, two main events become very prominent: our inspired/inspiring worship and our rich/enriching fellowship.  Between these two poles of the spectrum in our Christian life, I have become a better child of God.  I hope you feel the same way too.  I value and appreciate your attendance, participation and commitment towards the growth and success of our congregation.  I would like to reiterate my gratitude to you and for all those who supported our integrated festivities and celebrations.  You are the reason why our:  Regular Sunday Worship, Holy Week Liturgy, Joint Camping Trip, Joint Apple Picking and The Feast of St. Luke are always worthwhile.

          As we look forward to 2011, there are movements of the Holy Spirit that merit extra consideration.  We are blessed by the arrival of new members and the return of former members to the parish.  There is great enthusiasm to resume our monthly Bible Study.  We will officially induct our Parish Council Members next month.  They are the leaders that will guide us for the next two years.  On a bigger scale of things, the PIC in Illinois will host the next Diocesan Convention. This will be by the end of March 2011.  Yes, there is another good reason to be excited!  A new group of laymen from among our PIC parishes in Illinois has emerged.  They are, “The PIC Prime Movers of Illinois”.  Their ultimate goal is to raise funds for a church building and this process has just begun.  Most of our male members are active participants of this new charitable organization.  May I humbly mention that I am the founder and current Spiritual Director of the PIC Prime Movers.

          I am fully aware, that a lot of you are eager to assume a significant role in our parish life.  I promise to satisfy your interest next year.  As you make your prayerful resolutions for 2011, may I lay down some pastoral/ministerial services that you can choose from:

          1.   Liturgy

          2.   Preaching

          3.   Lectors

          4.   Acolytes

          5.   Altar Guild

          6.   Music

          7.   Sunday School Teacher     

          8.   Outreach Coordinator

          9.    Minister of Communion

          10.   Fundraising

          11.   Building Clean-up/maintenance

          12.   Communication Specialist

          13.   Bible Study

          14.   Other

Of course, proper training and orientation will be given in all these areas.  All you need to do is to decide, surrender and commit.  I plan to give an Easter Retreat in April 2011 to assist you in discerning and sharing your gifts.  Remember, you are precious and special.  Meantime, may you and your loved ones have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year!


In Christ,


Rev. Fr. Alberto C. Liggayu
Parish Priest