Altar Cleaners
Three small groups who rotate the responsibility of various cleaning tasks around the altar such as the cleaning and refilling of vigil lights, dust moping the altar, tidying the Ministers’ Sacristy, etc. A willingness to serve and ability to work with others are the only requirements!
For More Information, Contact Back To TopAltar Servers
Two or three Altar Servers assist the priest at each Mass. Altar Servers are students from the School and Religious Education Program who are willing to train and be present to serve the priest in the actions of the Mass. The training program is open to all students beginning in 5th grade, and is ordinarily held in the Fall.
Altar Server Trainers
Adults who volunteer to train new servers in grade 5 and to participate in on-going help for the others on a yearly basis or when needed.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopArt and Environment
A group of parishioners who help plan, design and execute the Worship Space Environment for the various seasons of the Liturgical Year. The group meets monthly for study of the Liturgical underpinnings of the various seasons and plan how best to physically articulate the theme of the Liturgy for that particular season. The Committee also can use volunteers who help with set up, take down of sets and watering of plants and flowers as needed. Ability to take direction and to work with others is all that is required. Many hands make for a lighter load! Call the parish office to contact the Art and Environment Coordinator.
Reqirements: Attendance at yearly Archdiocesan Training Sessions, attendance at the monthly parish planning sessions, Virtus training, ability to follow the dictates of the Liturgy, ability to work well with others and good will required.
For More Information, ContactBereavement Ministry
Our Lady of the Wayside ministry of Bereavement offers a grief support program for adults in the fall. This six-week program is open to adult men and women parishioners who have suffered the loss of a spouse, parent or sibling through death.
- For Grief Counseling/Support Groups: CLICK HERE.
- For Grief Resource Library links: CLICK HERE.
Bible Study
Parishioners meet weekly Friday mornings at 9:30 am in the Cabrini Room of our Parish Center (and “live online” via Zoom for homebound parishioners and participants outside our geographical area) to reflect on the Scripture readings for the coming Sunday and to explore their implications for daily life. The Sunday Lectionary is designed to present a substantial amount of the entire Bible over a three-year period, so this approach to Bible study is both a chance to become acquainted with the whole Bible “from the heart of the church,” and an opportunity to share insights within the rhythm of the liturgical year. It isn’t necessary to register and there is no charge. Because the readings are read in context, participants typically bring along bibles rather than use Sunday missals.
For information for for a for the Zoom code, email biblestudy@olwparish.org
Click here for additional information about this ministry.
For More Information, ContactBible Study for Women
Women of Wayside
The Women of Wayside Faith Community is a large community made up of small faith groups. These small groups hope to grow in faith and support each other as we share the difficulties and joys, challenges and blessings, in how God is working in our lives. We hope that, in this atmosphere of faith, we can go deeper in relationship with God, and, as a result, bring Christ to our corner of the world.
Each group meets monthly in the Parish Center from October-May. We offer different studies and book discussions at different levels of evangelization – something for everyone, we hope. There are service opportunities at different times during the year.
We would be happy to serve any group that wishes to join us, covering any Catholic topic or field of study [For example: Catholic Parenting for Catholic Moms (and Dads)]. We are open to drop-in “at large” members as well! As we like to say, come when you can, take what you need, and let the Holy Spirit do the rest!
Please pray for our group and about joining us!!! If you have any questions or wish to join, please call the parish office and leave a message for Flo Trunk.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopBlood Drives
Our Lady of the Wayside sponsors occasional blood drives organized in cooperation with Vitalant.
CLICK HERE for the 2024 Blood Drive Registration Flyer.
CLICK HERE to schedule a blood donation time.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopCoffee and Donuts Ministry
Every Sunday after the 7:30 and 9:30 a.m. Masses, join us for coffee, donuts and fellowship in the Gathering Place.
Various parish groups and families assist in setup, serving and cleanup. We are always looking for more help. Contact Elizabeth Bauer if you’re interested.
For More Information, ContactCoffee House
Musical evenings featuring Our Lady of the Wayside musicians and vocalists (and guests) of all ages. A variety of instruments and acts are featured (as long as they’re acoustic). Light refreshments are served, but we recommend you bring your favorite beverages (it doesn’t have to be coffee) and munchies.
Coffee House is family friendly, so bring the kids! The more voices that sing along, and hands that clap, the better! There is no charge to attend, though donations are collected to support various charities.
CLICK HERE to watch video montage and see photos from our Spring Coffee House.
Contact the coordinator if you are interested in performing in the next Coffee House!
For More Information, Contact Back To TopCommunications
To improve our parish’s ability to communicate with parishioners, Our Lady of the Wayside formed a Parish Communications Ministry. This Ministry is tasked with ensuring that information of parish activities, news and events reaches parishioners in a timely manner. The Communications team oversees all forms of communication at the parish: Website, Wayside Wednesday e-mails, the Bulletin, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc. We seek to identify our parishioners’ interests, and preferred methods of communicating, and to then spread the word!
If you have information to share, please contact the Communications Ministry and be sure to indicate where you would like your information posted: Website, Facebook, Wayside Wednesday, YouTube and/or the Bulletin.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopCoordinator of Pastoral Healthcare
Our Lady of the Wayside has a parish nurse on staff. The nurse does not perform hands-on clinical care. Rather, the nurse performs healthcare assessments through interviews and observations, which may include taking blood pressure, reviewing medications, nutrition, ability to perform basic activities of daily living and environmental safety issues. The nurse seeks out healthcare services and community resources and counsels individuals and families on healthcare concerns and available resources. Ongoing support and encouragement are provided through periodic visits to members at home, in hospitals or in nursing homes. Working with the pastoral staff, the nurse addresses health and wellness issues of individuals and groups across all dimensions – spiritual, physical, emotional, social, intellectual, and vocational.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopDivorce Support Group
We walk with those who have experienced divorce to understand how our Catholic faith supports us during this healing process. We follow the guidelines from the Surviving Divorce Workbook from Ascension Press. Books are available upon joining the group. We meet twice a month on Friday evenings, from 6:30 to 8:00 pm, in the Parish Center. Anyone suffering from the pain of divorce is welcome.
For specific meeting dates or more information please contact Danielle Pitzer.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopDomestic Abuse Ministry
| “As pastors of the Catholic Church in the United States, we state as clearly and strongly as we can that violence, inside or outside the home, is never justified.” |
The Our Lady of the Wayside Domestic Abuse Ministry was formed in 2014 in coordination with the Archdiocese of Chicago’s Domestic Violence Outreach, led by Fr. Chuck Dahm, O.P. Our mission is:
- To raise awareness of domestic abuse through parish outreach and communications,
- To offer support to those affected by domestic abuse by providing referrals to professional resources and spiritual guidance,
- To promote healthy relationships and prevention of domestic abuse by educating our community.
The Domestic Abuse Ministry welcomes new members! Give a little time and make a big difference by helping us with awareness and prevention projects.
Click here for support resources.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopElizabeth Ministry
The Elizabeth Ministry is an international movement designed to support women and their families during the joys, challenges and sorrows of the childbearing years and beyond. The areas include, but are not limited to: pregnancy, birth, miscarriage, regretted abortions, infant or child death, crisis or special needs, adoption, fertility and infertility.
To contact a minister, please complete a card from the banner in the back of church or contact the Parish Office.
For More Information, ContactEmployment Ministry
Our Lady of the Wayside is also one of over 25 member parishes of St. Hubert’s Job Network. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at St. Hubert’s in Hoffman Estates. Visit www.sainthubert.org/job-networking for a full schedule of events.
Prayer for the Unemployed:
Lord, I am not certain where this job search will lead me, nor for whom I may toil, nor what I may be asked to do. I pray that you would provide me the guidance to do what is right; to find a righteous and worthy opportunity; to earn my pay and to contribute to my fellow workers, and to our society. Give me the strength to continue my quest; to provide for my family, and to carry your word through my actions and deeds. Provide me with the opportunity to help others and to recognize the help I receive. I ask that you help all those searching, who seek your anointing to become re-employed and to assist all others in their moment of need. And Lord, bless those less fortunate than I, those who have so little, when I have so much. In your name I pray. Amen.
Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist
Ordinarily, four Eucharistic Ministers participate in each Mass to assist the Priest and Deacon in distributing the Body of Christ. The Ministry is open to all confirmed adults and teens. Eucharistic Ministers are commissioned after attending a workshop given by the Archdiocese of Chicago. Workshops are usually held two-to-three times per year and are advertised in the Sunday Bulletin, the website, and social media.
For More Information, ContactFilipino-American Group
The Filipino American Group consists of OLW parishioners who conduct celebrations in the tradition of the Filipino culture. They host the celebration of Simbang Gabi in December and the annual Hawaiian night. These events reflect the culture of the Filipino Americans and contribute to the worship and celebration of the parish at large.
For More Information, ContactFuneral Ministry
Ministers of Bereavement assist in planning and celebrating the various parts of the wake and funeral process, and provide post-funeral support.
To get involved, contact Dan McMahon in the parish office.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopKnights of Columbus
The Holy Rosary Council #4483 works closely with the three Arlington Heights parishes.
Why Join the Knights of Columbus?
Imagine being part of an organization that fills your heart and your mind with the joy of giving to others and the feeling that comes with making a difference. Knights are Catholic men, who are committed to making their community a better place, while supporting their Church. Being a Knight is more than camaraderie; it is being involved with your community; it is supporting your local Catholic Church, while enhancing your own faith; it is about protecting and enhancing your family life.
Upon acceptance, the applicant becomes a member by participating in a ceremonial known as the First Degree. Later he advances through the Second Degree and Third Degree ceremonies. A 3rd degree Knight is eligible to become a Sir Knight. This Fourth Degree, also known THE PATRIOTIC DEGREE, is the highest degree in the Order.
Click here for the Holy Rosary Council website.
For More Information, ContactLectors
Lectors are parishioners who are called to proclaim The Word of God to the assembly at Mass and various Liturgical Services, such as Penance Services and Morning Prayer during the Triduum. Usually one lector proclaims both the first and second readings at Weekend Masses. The Ministry is open to all parishioners who are confirmed, feel the call to service, and have completed a workshop given by the Archdiocese of Chicago.
For More Information, ContactLenten Soup/Pasta/Stations
Each Friday of Lent a soup and meatless pasta supper is held in the Gathering Space at 6:00 pm followed by Stations of the Cross in the church at 7:00 pm. Join us for delicious non-meat soups, meatless pasta and fellowship! If you make a great soup or pasta you would like to share, contact the coordinator!
For More Information, ContactMarriage Encounter
Marriage Encounter is an opportunity for married couples to reconsider the most important part of their lives – their marriage! It is a time to become re-acquainted and to learn or relearn how to talk and listen to each other.
Visit wwme-chicagoland.org website or Facebook for more information.
For More Information, ContactMeals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels is a group of volunteers that take meals to shut-ins. Contact the Parish Office for more information.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopMen's Basketball
What is the Men’s Basketball Club? We are a men’s parish organization committed to both social and service activities. Stop by any week and join us! We conduct weekly pick-up basketball games Tuesday nights, 8:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. September through June in the Father Mackin Center. We participate in, volunteer for, and donate to parish sponsored activities. Annual dues are $40 and include a reversible jersey.
Contact mensbasketball@olwparish.org for more information.
For More Information, ContactMen's Golf
OLW Men’s golf plays Wednesday afternoons at Arlington Lakes Golf Course from April through September. Walk-up and form your own foursomes from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Greens Fee: $18.00 Resident and $22.00 Nonresident. 2023 League Membership Fee: $120.
Click here for more details about this ministry.
For More Information, ContactMental Health
Grace Prayer Circle: CLICK HERE
Our Lady of the Wayside, St. James and St. Edna’s, and have joined together for this very important Mental Health Ministry. We strive to provide support, education and awareness to our parish communities on issues related to mental health. Our goal is to break down the social stigma surrounding these issues, provide information, local resources, and emotional and spiritual support.
The National Institute of Health says 1 in 5 people in any given year deal with a mental illness. For 1 in 17, it is a serious and persistent illness and 1 in 4 of these individuals also have a substance abuse issue. Tragically, the stigma surrounding them causes isolation and often keeps individuals and families from seeking help. Our hope is this web page provides you with resources of support, education and hope.
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
- If you feel unsafe or are experiencing a mental health emergency: CLICK HERE
- For Support Resources: CLICK HERE
- For Educational Resources, CLICK HERE
Click here for a list of mental health services. 
Ministers of Care
Ministers of Care tend to the needs of the home-bound, hospitalized, and nursing home residents by bringing Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist, as well as providing friendly companionship. If you know someone who wishes to receive the Eucharist or if you would like information on becoming a Minister of Care, contact the coordinator at the parish office.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopMinistry of Praise
The Ministry of Praise is a spiritual ministry in which the members offer their prayers to God for special intentions. This ministry encourages the bonding of generations with our homebound and our active members to experience a closer connection. This ministry is a way to pray in your own way, your own home and on your own time.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopMusic Ministry
Music plays an essential role in the liturgical life of any parish. The music ministry at Our Lady of the Wayside exists to support liturgical goals of Vatican II:
to have active, conscious participation by the entire assembly.
to have the liturgical texts set to music.
to preserve our heritage as new music is included.
This is done by the musicians supporting the singing of the entire assembly as well as offering music unique to choirs, solo voice, or instrumentalists.
The parish employs a professionally prepared full time Director of Music, Dan McMahon, to direct all facets of music in worship.
If you are interested in the opportunities below, contact OLW Music Ministry at the Parish Office or at musicministry@olwparish.org.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopOur Lady of Unity Sharing Parish
Our Lady of the Wayside and Our Lady of Unity on Chicago’s West Side are sharing parishes.
Donations of non-perishable food items are collected at the parish garage, the second Sunday of each month from 9 am to Noon. Volunteers pack up the food, which is then delivered to Our Lady of Unity the following Saturday. Please click the attached links for most-needed items and volunteer opportunities.
Our Lady of Unity helps feed over 1,000 families from their food pantry. There has been a large influx of migrants who have settled in their neighborhood, and the need for non-perishable food is great. Working together, we can raise awareness about hunger issues and lend a hand of mercy.
At the start of Advent each year, Our Lady of Wayside’s parishioners donate gift cards for members Our Lady of Unity so they can purchase food or Christmas gifts for their families. Look for the “Giving Tree” with Christmas envelopes for your donations.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopRite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
Spiritual and educational formation through which adults become fully initiated members of the Roman Catholic Church through Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist.
For More Information, ContactRespect Life Committee
Respect Life provides information on current concerns and legislative alerts to parishioners, as well as prayers and other needed support to those affected by life issues. If you would like to get involved, contact the Committee Chair for more information at respectlife@olwparish.org.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopRosary Group
Prior to Daily Mass, Monday through Saturday, parishioners recite the Rosary from 8:00 – 8:20 am. On the first Friday of each month, the group meets for coffee and fellowship in the Gathering Place following Mass.
During the summer months, the Rosary Group also gathers at the Welcoming Mother statue on Park Street (between the Rectory and Church Portico entrances) on Tuesday afternoons and Marian Feast Days.
For More Information, ContactSacristans
Sacristans are persons invited to care for the vessels of the altar and to prepare for the sacramental action of the parish at the various Masses and Liturgical Services. If you would like to become a Sacristan, please contact the Pastoral Associate.
For More Information, ContactSalt & Light
“Salt of the Earth… Light of the World.” The role of a Christian in the world is to bring out the best in others by leading them to Christ.
We hope to be salt & light for each other, our families, and the community at large. Please join us as we build this community of 55+ men & women with social & spiritual events throughout the year. All are welcome — including volunteers to help!!!
Watch the bulletin for Bingo events.
For More Information, ContactSewing Committee
The Sewing Committee is responsible for light sewing for Art & Environment and baptismal bibs. To participate, please contact the Sewing Coordinator.
For More Information, ContactShawl Ministry
The Shawl Ministry provides handmade shawls to sick members of the community who request one. As they are working on them the women are praying for the sick. When the shawls are completed, a priest or deacon leads a prayer service for the recipients.
The women meet every Thursday afternoon from 1 to 3pm in the Cabrini Room. Anyone is welcome to join and the women are eager to teach knitting or crocheting, if you don’t know how but would like to learn.
The only revenue source for the needed supplies are donations from parishioners. To contribute,
please leave a check in an envelope in the Sunday collection or at the Parish Center.
SPRED Ministry (Special Religious Education for Adults 22+)
SPRED = SPecial REligious Development for our Catholic community members with special needs.
Our Lady of the Wayside is proud to host SPRED for men and women ages 22 + with varied special needs. Our trained catechists meet once a month to share faith and community with our SPRED friends. A typical Saturday morning session begins with a welcoming one-on-one activity followed up with a whole group spiritual reflection and proclamation of the WORD. Our event ends with an agape where Catechists and Friends strengthen and deepen bonds around a community food table – much like Jesus did with his disciples and followers.
SPRED programs are offered throughout Chicagoland parishes for dedicated age groups. For a video overview of SPRED program, CLICK HERE.
Click here for more details about this ministry.
For More Information, ContactSt. Vincent DePaul Society
OLW’s St. Vincent de Paul Society provides emergency assistance and referral services in cases such as loss of employment, illness or other emergencies. If you need assistance or would like to be of assistance, contact the Parish Office for more information.
For More Information, ContactUshers and Greeters
Ushers are a group of dedicated men and women, adults and teens who serve at the various Masses to welcome all coming to worship on that particular day. Typically four to six ushers serve at each Mass. Duties include making sure worship aids are passed out and collected; distributing bulletins at the proper time to all who enter or are leaving the church; seating parishioners when needed and utilizing the seating as well as possible, performing collections and in case of emergency making necessary contacts or calling for medical help when needed. We always need help! If you would be interested, please contact the Usher Coordinator.
Requirements: Training and Complete Virtus required. Attendance at Semi-annual In-service, attendance at assigned regular Mass and volunteer for Holiday Masses on occasion.
Vaccine Clinic
Held every Fall, hosted by Walgreens Pharmacy, OLW offers parishioners an opportunity to receive a Flu, and other vaccine, shots.
For More Information, Contact Back To TopWomen's Bridge
Season: September through May
Where: OLW Gathering Space
Times: Third Thursday at noon
New members are welcome!
Substitutes are needed, too, and no membership donation is required.
Membership Donation: $40 annually
Prizes Included in Membership Donation
Annual Luncheon Party: May – Included in Membership Donation
CONTACT
Presidents:
Pat Ragone and Marie Jackson
Women's Golf
The twilight afternoon 2022 women’s golf league plays Mondays, May through August at Nickol Knoll par three golf course in north Arlington Heights. Tee times are 4:30-5:15 p.m. Resident and nonresident fees are $15. You may pull your own cart, or motorized carts are available to rent for those who would like to ride the course. Women who are not Wayside parishioners may also join the league, so invite a friend to join us. We are a low-key, fun-oriented league. A year-end party is usually held after the season. Annual dues for the league are $10.
For More Information, Contact
Young Adult Ministry
Young Adult Ministry-Northwest (YAM-NW) is a regional ministry within the Northwest Suburbs, serving young adults in their 20s and 30s. A variety of faith programs, monthly social events and volunteer opportunities bring young adults who are interested in their faith together for fun, fellowship, and faith enrichment!
For more information, contact Kathy Leisten or Bryan Fong at yamnw.suburbs@gmail.com or find us on Facebook.
Here is a map/list of some of our member parishes. http://goo.gl/maps/rC9O
For More Information, Contact