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Sponsor a child’s CCD Education
Students enroll for Religious Education: Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (CCD) each year. OLM offers you the chance to sponsor a child through their journey of faith.
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New Parishioners
A special welcome to all new parishioners who have recently joined us! First of all, I pray that you feel at home at OLM and that our parish helps you during your time in Madrid. You may be amazed at how dynamic and vibrant we are. Do you want to know the secret? We are a successful parish because everyone is expected to play their part. Some parishioners never envisioned themselves as a CCD teacher or choir member or Usher, but at OLM you have a wonderful opportunity to explore many options. Many people have told me that they never imagined that their church would have played such an important and crucial part in their lives during their time in Madrid. I am convinced that their satisfaction was due to the fact that they took the initiative and decided to become involved. (The unsatisfied are usually those who do nothing.) Every year families return home and leave us with the need for more volunteers. We always need new greeters (see Julie) and others to help with donuts & coffee (see Louise), and ushers (see Brian), PLEASE think of volunteering for your church before local clubs and schools ask for your help. We need you and you will be serving the highest of all causes, your God.
Please don’t think that “someone else can do it better than I” or “I have not been a parishioner long enough.” Remember, over half our parish is always “new” so we depend upon people jumping right in. Returning parishioners are reminded that they should be especially welcoming to new faces. It is not always easy to be extroverted but everyone remembers gratefully that first kind face that helped them feel at home here, right? Please, do the same for others.
If you are new to us, let me (or the ministry leaders) know what you would like to do. If you play a musical instrument, if you were involved in a church ministry previously, if you have time to volunteer, or to help with charity, please, please, please, let us know right away. We are a parish that has over a 50% active involvement of our parishioners and there is no big bureaucracy to impede you from getting involved. The easiest way is to call me at 91-733-94-09 or send me an email at: olm@ourladyofmercy.info. Please don’t assume that we should come and ask you first, we are not that organized. Help the church that helps you.
Remember, OLM is a parish that provides the same services as any larger American, British or African parish but receives in one year what many other churches would collect in 1 or 2 months. We ask that everyone, current parishioners included, to please use the envelope or bank transfer system and offer your church the same minimal support you would give to the telephone company or the electric company. (They charge a minimum amount whether you use their services or not.). Please, we need to avoid the “just passing through” syndrome. OLM is really and truly your church while you are in Madrid, please treat it as you would your home parish. We keep your giving information confidential – only the treasurer and Fr. Ron are privy to the information.
Many parishioners are very appreciative of the almost weekly emails that I send out. They usually inform us what will be going on the following Sunday and they give me an easy way to warn you about important things like marathons that block the street, special blessings, the end of daylight savings time, etc. If you are not receiving these, please send me an email at olm@ourladyofmercy.info. I usually try to end each one with a joke, so at least you will get a weekly laugh. All email addresses are sent as blind carbon copies (hidden) and are held in the strictest confidence. Because of privacy laws, you must request the mail first.
As I have said before, our parish is a success because it is a spiritual one. People really do care about God and one another. I receive many emails and cards of gratitude so I know we must be doing something right. We are blessed not to have had to suffer any scandals or factions in our parish, we are internationally diverse but spiritually unified. God has blessed us richly, and for that we give thanks. May it be so for many years to come. And it depends upon you!
Fr. Ron
Welcome
Food Drive
Through the Our Lady of Mercy Food Drive we provide essential foods to families and individuals who need it. You can bring food every second Sunday of the month and all Sundays in Lent and leave it by the altar during the offertory.
Donating non-perishable items is particularly impactful as they provide essential supplies that can be stored for longer periods. Here’s a comprehensive list of non-perishable items that are always welcomed by charities:
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Canned Goods: Nutritious, easy-to-store options like canned fruits, vegetables, beans, soups, and meats are fundamental. Low-sodium options are especially beneficial for those with dietary restrictions.
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Dry Goods: Staples like rice, pasta, lentils, quinoa, and oatmeal offer a foundation for many meals. Whole grain options are a healthier choice.
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Nut Butters: Peanut, almond, and other nut butters are high in protein and great for families.
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Baby Supplies: Formula, baby food, and diapers are often in high demand and can significantly help struggling parents.
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Personal Hygiene Items: Basic hygiene products such as toothpaste, soap, sanitary napkins, and deodorants are crucial for personal well-being.
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Shelf-Stable Dairy: Items like powdered milk and shelf-stable milk cartons provide essential nutrients.
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Healthy Snacks: Granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, and seeds are great for on-the-go nutrition.
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Beverages: Coffee, tea, and juice boxes can be a comfort to many.
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Condiments and Spices: Items like salt, pepper, sugar, and oil can greatly enhance meal preparation for families.
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Cleaning Supplies: Basic cleaning products help maintain hygiene and living standards.
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Paper Products: Toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues are necessities that are often in short supply.
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Pet Food: Donations for furry family members are often overlooked but greatly appreciated.
When donating, consider the diversity of needs and dietary restrictions. Low-sugar, low-sodium, and gluten-free options can be lifesavers for individuals with specific health conditions. Additionally, think about the usability of the items – easy-to-open packaging and child-friendly foods can make a big difference.
Your thoughtful donations can provide comfort, nutrition, and support to those in need, making a tangible difference in their lives.
Caritas
Our Lady of Mercy collaborates with the charity organisation Caritas. Their mission is to manifest love and charity in tangible, transformative actions that alleviate suffering and promote dignity.
How can you take part?
Welcome
A special welcome to all new parishioners who have recently joined us! First of all, I pray that you feel at home at OLM and that our parish helps you during your time in Madrid. You may be amazed at how dynamic and vibrant we are. Do you want to know the secret? We are a successful parish because everyone is expected to play their part. Some parishioners never envisioned themselves as a CCD teacher or choir member or Usher, but at OLM you have a wonderful opportunity to explore many options. Many people have told me that they never imagined that their church would have played such an important and crucial part in their lives during their time in Madrid. I am convinced that their satisfaction was due to the fact that they took the initiative and decided to become involved. (The unsatisfied are usually those who do nothing.) Every year families return home and leave us with the need for more volunteers. We always need new greeters (see Mercedes) and others to help with donuts & coffee (see Louise), and ushers (see Brian Douglas), PLEASE think of volunteering for your church before local clubs and schools ask for your help. We need you and you will be serving the highest of all causes, your God.
Please don’t think that “someone else can do it better than I” or “I have not been a parishioner long enough.” Remember, over half our parish is always “new” so we depend upon people jumping right in. Returning parishioners are reminded that they should be especially welcoming to new faces. It is not always easy to be extroverted but everyone remembers gratefully that first kind face that helped them feel at home here, right? Please, do the same for others.
If you are new to us, let me (or the ministry leaders) know what you would like to do. If you play a musical instrument, if you were involved in a church ministry previously, if you have time to volunteer, or to help with charity, please, please, please, let us know right away. We are a parish that has over a 50% active involvement of our parishioners and there is no big bureaucracy to impede you from getting involved. The easiest way is to call me at 91-733-94-09 or send me an email at: olm@ourladyofmercy.info. Please don’t assume that we should come and ask you first, we are not that organized. Help the church that helps you.
Remember, OLM is a parish that provides the same services as any larger American, British or African parish but receives in one year what many other churches would collect in 1 or 2 months. We ask that everyone, current parishioners included, to please use the envelope or bank transfer system and offer your church the same minimal support you would give to the telephone company or the electric company. (They charge a minimum amount whether you use their services or not.). Please, we need to avoid the “just passing through” syndrome. OLM is really and truly your church while you are in Madrid, please treat it as you would your home parish. We keep your giving information confidential – only the treasurer and Fr. Ron are privy to the information.
Many parishioners are very appreciative of the almost weekly emails that I send out. They usually inform us what will be going on the following Sunday and they give me an easy way to warn you about important things like marathons that block the street, special blessings, the end of daylight savings time, etc. If you are not receiving these, please send me an email at olm@ourladyofmercy.info. I usually try to end each one with a joke, so at least you will get a weekly laugh. All email addresses are sent as blind carbon copies (hidden) and are held in the strictest confidence. Because of privacy laws, you must request the mail first.
As I have said before, our parish is a success because it is a spiritual one. People really do care about God and one another. I receive many emails and cards of gratitude so I know we must be doing something right. We are blessed not to have had to suffer any scandals or factions in our parish, we are internationally diverse but spiritually unified. God has blessed us richly, and for that we give thanks. May it be so for many years to come. And it depends upon you!
Fr. Ron
Altar Servers
Answering God’s call to serve at the altar is one of the most beautiful ways we can participate in Mass. Once you have received the sacrament of First Holy Communion, you are welcome to join the group of altar servers even if you have no experience.
We’ll teach you!
Get in touch with Louise.
Readers
Being a Reader is special. It’s more than just reading words out loud. It’s about carrying God’s Word from the pages of the Bible and delivering it into the hearts of the community gathered in prayer. When you speak, you’re sharing messages of love, hope and faith that have been echoing for centuries.
You get to be a part of this extraordinary moment where God speaks to His people through the Scriptures. It’s not just about getting the words right – it’s about helping create this beautiful encounter between God and the community.
We always welcome new readers with or without experience. If you have never read at Mass, give it a try! We will help you.
Speak to Louise.
Ushers
The role of ushers at OLM is always low profile but essential. The smooth running of Mass depends on them.
Ushers set-up the altar correctly, place the missal at priest’s lectern and then set up the Lectionary to the correct Sunday for readings, light the candles .
We ensure that the congregation is seated safely and comfortably. We ensure that the collection is done in an orderly fashion.
At communion we ensure we call up each row in turn so that receiving Communion is a calm and peaceful experience.
At the end of Mass, we clear the altar and set-up the Missal and Lectionary for the following week’s celebration.
If you would like help us with this vital work, please speak with Brian.
