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“Come Follow Me!”
(The Invitation of Jesus of Nazareth)
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and subtitled
Catholic Answers for “Bible Objections” to the Church
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Dear friends of Father Mike O’Rourke,
One of Father Mike’s greatest strengths was as a teacher. He could take even the most complex issues and explain them in simple terms so that they made sense. And, because we live in a world that challenges even the most fundamental components of our faith, he especially liked to teach about what it really meant to be Catholic. He knew that we sometimes needed “answers” so that we could clear up the misconceptions that exist about our church and faith.
Although we miss those wonderful teaching homilies of his, there is GOOD NEWS! Father Mike wrote a book that he, along with the Diocese of Green Bay, was in the process of publishing when he died. The Diocese plans to go ahead with a limited printing and is offering us an opportunity to pre-order copies.
This book, titled “Come Follow Me!” (The Invitation of Jesus of Nazareth) and subtitled Catholic Answers for “Bible Objections” to the Church, was one of Father Mike’s greatest passions. Here is a quote from him used in the text:
“The explanations presented here are to help good people have a better understanding of the Catholic faith -- what we believe, practice and cherish. To know, love and follow Jesus as personal Lord and Savior in His worldwide faith family is the center of everything that is Catholic.”
Cost of this soft-covered book is expected to be around $12 to $15. We are not collecting payment at this time but need to let the Diocese know how many to order for us. If you are interested, please sign up for the number of copies you would like to purchase when they become available. You may also call the St. Mary Parish office, 739-5119. We do not know when the books will be available but we will let you know as soon as we do.
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In Loving Memory
of
Reverend Michael K. O'Rourke
"Fr. Mike"
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Born: April 26, 1943
Died: February 22, 2010
Mass of Resurrection
February 26, 2010
11:00AM
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Letter to the Parish Family
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Dear friends & loved ones of Father Mike O’Rourke:
It is with a feeling of unbelievable gratitude that I write today. As a member of the staff of St. Mary Parish, and close friend of Fr. Mike O’Rourke, I am overwhelmed with the outpouring of generosity. A community that extends way beyond the boundaries of our church family stepped up to do their part for a man that was loved by many, near and far. From the outpouring of compassion through notes, e-mail and phone calls, to helping provide a truly awesome memorial service, your efforts were touching.
I will likely forget to say thank you to someone but know that every gesture was appreciated. To all those who prayed, I cannot thank you enough and please do not stop. The power of prayer by so many was truly felt. The Catholic Diocese of Green Bay, for their help in planning and attendance at the Mass. Fr. Larry Abler from St. Joseph parish was there throughout, as a rock, to provide advice, wisdom and spiritual guidance. His heart felt reflection touched us all. The City of Appleton was remarkable for removing snow and providing police presence for safety and traffic control. The Post Crescent provided a live webcast of the funeral Mass. This allowed our Catholic school students, homebound, and out-of-area friends (in 21 countries across the globe) to be with us in spirit. There were volunteers who made countless ribbons, cooked meals, put together programs and answered phones. There were people who set up and took down chairs, decorations, and equipment. Still more provided ushering, security, ministering during the service, and the many extra hands that were always in the right place when needed. And lastly, the parish staff, who went way above the call of duty. For standing by each other, the parish family and all guests to ensure everyone had what they needed to help cope with this loss. You put others needs before yours, which is exactly what Fr. Mike has been demonstrating to us each day. He would be so proud.
I will not forget how gracious so many have been. The community acted with grace, compassion and courage. Fr. Mike would be the first to say how proud he is, in his humble way that we all loved so much.
In humble gratitude,
Brian Dresang
St. Mary Parish Business Administrator
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