14th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Deacon Tim’s Column
July 5, 2009

Just some odds and ends this week.

Low Gluten Hosts
Just a reminder. For the past several years we have had low gluten hosts available here at Our Lady of Good Counsel for those who suffer from both Celiac Disease as well as Dermatitis Herpetiformis. Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disease which is characterized by a complete intolerance to gluten (wheat, oats, rye and barley). Celiacs and those who suffer from Dermatitis Herpetiformis are unable to received the Eucharist under the form of bread (which is 100% wheat). Celiac disease can be life threatening. Left untreated by a gluten-free diet, it can lead to osteoporosis, malnutrition, central and peripheral nervous system disease, pancreatic disease, internal bleeding, damage to internal organs, gynecological and fertility problems, and even some forms of cancer. It may impact mental functions, and can aggravate autism (including a common autism spectrum disorder called Asperger's syndrome), attention deficit disorder, and even schizophrenia.
The Benedictine Sisters of Clyde, MO after much experimentation have delveloped a low gluten (less than .01%) all wheat hosts which most Celiacs and those who suffer from Dermatitis Herpetiformis can tolerate easily. These hosts have been approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops as well as by the Vatican’s Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. These hosts are available upon request. If you have any questions, please contact me at 734-502-1818.
Deacon Tim
PBJ Outreach
Thank you for your generosity and caring concern for those that we serve. It was about seven years ago this coming week that the idea of starting the PBJ was formed. During the last 6 ¾ years we’ve served approximately 80,000 people. Thank you! During the winter months we always have plenty of volunteers but in the summer the numbers decrease. Your participation would be greatly appreciated if you’d like to give a hand. We are also in need of small jars of peanut butter and jelly. Each week we give a loaf of bread out and a jar of peanut butter or jelly. May God continue to bless all of you and your families.

Clothes Closet
Despite some delays, we will soon (hopefully) be in our permanent location. Until then please contact me if you have any questions or would like to utilize this service. It is intended for those trying to reenter the work force, and those who are entering it for the first time. All are welcome, college students are invited to also utilize this service if you have need of it.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
Blog
If you’re interested, I’ve started a blog (see below) for any questions you might have or for some discussion. As the weeks progress it will be taking more of its intended form.

Blessings to you and your families.
Deacon Tim 734-502-1818
deacontim@tds.net
http://shamrockdeacon.blogspot.com