Our Lady of the Pines Monthly Connection May 2026
What's Inside? May: Month of Mary Match the Mama 2026 Diocesan Ministry Appeal Update 2026 Sock Hop Recap That Everyone Might Have Food “Faith on Fire: We Hit the Target” High School Teen Rally: July 25, 2026
May: Month of Mary Why May Matters
May is one of the most beautiful months in the Catholic Church because it is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. During this time, we are invited to grow closer to Mary, who always leads us to her Son. It’s a month filled with flowers, new life, and joy—reminding us of Mary’s gentleness, humility, and love.
It’s also a month full of incredible saints who show us what it looks like to live with courage, faith, and selfless love in everyday life.
Mother’s Day Prayer Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of mothers— for their love, sacrifice, and constant care. Bless all mothers with strength, patience, and peace. May they feel appreciated and supported, and may their hearts be filled with joy. We ask You to also comfort those who long to be mothers, who have lost children, or who carry hidden burdens. Through the example of Mary, help all mothers grow in faith and love each day. Amen.
Saints & Feast Days to Know May 1 – St. Joseph the Worker
A reminder that even the most ordinary work can glorify God. St. Joseph shows us how to serve quietly, faithfully, and with great love. May 3 – Sts. Philip and James Two apostles who gave their lives to spread the Gospel. They remind us to stay strong in our faith, even when it’s difficult. May 10 – St. Damien of Molokai He cared for people with leprosy when no one else would. His life is a powerful example of radical love and sacrifice. May 13 – Our Lady of Fatima Mary appeared to three children and asked for prayer and repentance. She especially encouraged devotion to the Rosary. May 14 – St. Matthias Chosen to replace Judas, reminding us that God always has a plan and continues to call people into His mission. May 31 – The Visitation Mary visits Elizabeth and brings joy, love, and Jesus with her. This moment reminds us to bring Christ to others in our daily lives.
Mini Challenge: Mary in May
Pray 1 Hail Mary every day Try one decade of the Rosary this week Ask Mary to help you grow in one specific area
Happy Mother's Day to all the amazing mothers in our church family! As staff, we celebrate your love, sacrifice, and prayers that strengthen our homes and community. May God bless, encourage, and fill your hearts with joy as you continue to nurture others. Your dedication reflects His love, and we are deeply grateful.
Match the Mama! Can you match each staff member to their mother?? The first one was done for you! Look next month for the answers.
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. - Psalm 139:13-14
2026 Diocesan Ministry Appeal
$195,102 Our parish goal:
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ris
The Diocesan Ministry Appeal (DMA) is an act by the Bishop in his duties as Shepherd of the Diocese, to promote and to safeguard the unity of faith and the discipline common to the whole Church. To also instruct the faithful to love the whole Mystical Body of Christ and to promote activity of the Church, especially so that the faith and may increase, and the light of full truth appear to all. The Appeal helps fund educational, pastoral, and charitable programs, in so far as it is able, by careful discernment of these apostolates and initiatives.
73%
WAYS TO GIVE:
Monthly Pledges: mission.diocs.org One-Time Gift: mission.diocs.org Matching Gifts: jcrane@diocs.org Gifts of Appreciated Stocks, Securities or QCDs: partner.freewill.com/diocs
Pledges as of 4/29/26
F a nd SOCK HOP
Our Spring Ball was a joyful step back in time with a lively 1950s Sock Hop theme! From polka dots and twirling skirts to fun scarves - and even an Elvis Presley sighting - everyone fully embraced the spirit of the evening! The night was filled with dancing, delicious food, and wonderful fellowship, creating memories that will last well beyond the final song. With all 170 seats completely sold out, the energy in the room was truly something special. A big thank you to our incredible Spring Ball committee, as well as Fr. Brad and Fr. Matt, for making the evening such a success. Congratulations as well to our Jay Barnwell Volunteer Award winners, Lisa Wilkins, Cheryl Cahill, and Maria Bettencourt! Keep reading to learn more about these amazing women!
WE ARE ALREADY LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT YEAR'S SPRING BALL—STAY TUNED FOR THE NEXT THEME!
Lisa Wilkins, Cheryl Cahill, and Maria Bettencourt were honored with the Jay Barnwell Volunteer Award for their exceptional, heartfelt service to Our Lady of the Pines parish. Lisa inspires dozens of women each week through her thoughtful leadership of Bible studies (having led approximately 35 over the years), while also serving in funeral, wedding, and Sisters in Spirit ministries with generous prayer and personal care. Cheryl leads Charity and Social Outreach with tireless coordination of food drives, Elder Boxes, Giving Trees, and many other efforts, while also serving as an usher, volunteering at Marion House, and supporting military families through additional organizations—all with joyful compassion and prayer. Maria faithfully serves in Hospitality Ministry (including training new volunteers), contributes to the community garden, and beautifully captures parish life through photography that enriches newsletters and events, making everyone feel welcomed and loved. Together, these three women embody faithful, servant- hearted commitment that strengthens the entire parish community.
That Everyone Might Have Food
This May, Pope Leo XIV invites the whole Church to pray that everyone might have food. In a world of plenty, millions still suffer hunger while food goes to waste. The Holy Father calls us to build a “culture of solidarity” through gratitude, simpler living, generous sharing, and responsible care for creation’s gifts.
This intention echoes the Gospel. Jesus multiplied the loaves, fed the crowds, and taught us to pray for our daily bread. In the Eucharist, we receive the Bread of Life — a sacrament that should move us to ensure no neighbor lacks ordinary bread. Here in Colorado Springs and the Black Forest area, food insecurity affects real families. According to the Pikes Peak United Way, 11.5% of Colorado Springs residents experienced food insecurity in 2022, touching an estimated 86,000 people. Many working families, seniors, veterans, and children quietly struggle to put nutritious meals on the table amid rising costs. Prayer matters, but the Pope’s call also demands action. Andy Barton, CEO of Catholic Charities of Central Colorado, offers a powerful reminder in his article “The Uncomfortable Challenge of Justice.” He writes that Catholic justice is “the condition of a right relationship between people and within society.” While charity meets immediate needs — such as donating soup or a few dollars — justice asks why people are suffering and works to correct the causes. Barton notes that charity can feel comfortable because it allows us to help and then “move on to the next item in our lives.” Justice, however, “costs those who are prosperous something on behalf of those who are vulnerable.” He concludes: “Christ not only healed the sick. He challenged the systems and society that left them sick in the first place. In Him, charity and justice are mutually inclusive. They are critical halves of the same act of love… We owe the poor care enough to let that love cost us something. How Can We Respond Locally? Support Local Charities: Donate to the Marian House Kitchen and Marketplace pantry, drop off needed items at 14 W. Bijou St., or volunteer in meal service. Call (719) 866-6286 or visit ccharitiescc.org/volunteer. Donate to Local Food Pantries: Julia Greely Red Wagon in our Church Narthex or Care and Share Simple Daily Actions: Practice meal planning, reduce food waste, and teach children gratitude through service. Parish Efforts: Pray for the intention at Mass, organize a food drive, or plan a group volunteer day. This May, as we pray that everyone might have food, may we open our hearts and hands right here in Black Forest and Colorado Springs. Let the Eucharist inspire us to combine generous charity with the demanding work of justice — so our love truly costs us something and reflects the heart of Christ.
Let us pray that everyone, from large producers to small consumers, be committed to avoid wasting food, and to ensure that everyone has access to quality food.
Helpful Links: Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network: May Prayer Guide Volunteer with Care and Share Volunteer at Marian House with Catholic Charities
At the beginning of this year, our high school youth group set out with one goal in mind: to put our faith at the center— like a bullseye. We talked about what it means to truly live with our faith on fire— not just going through the motions, but actively choosing God, growing in relationship with Him, and supporting one another along the way. Throughout the year, we showed up. We had special guest speakers including Fr. Matt, Fr. Benjamin Lenhertz (visiting from Florida!), and Cindy Prestguard talked beautifully about the rosary. Our teens then lead the Rosary prayer at the Diocesan Rosary Rally! Teen Traft Baase set up an epic Mario movie night, Rob Stalp lead us in the ultimate Bible Bowl, and our behind the scenes crew kept us FILLED to the brim! We prayed together. We laughed (a lot). We grew in ways we didn’t even expect. More special guests included Lindsay Gutierrez, Sol Baase, Tom Paris, and other volunteers that helped run our new ‘Called on Fire’ nights. And now, as we come to the end of the year, we can confidently say… we hit the target. Not because we’re perfect, but because we kept aiming for Him. This year wasn’t just about one theme—it was about transformation. Watching each of you grow in your faith has been such a gift, and we are so proud of the community we’ve built together. As we head into summer, our prayer is that you continue to keep your faith at the center—because once it’s lit on fire, it’s not meant to fade. -Forever grateful and proud of you all, Mrs. Stacy “Faith on Fire: We Hit the Target” A look back at our High School ‘Called’ and ‘Called on Fire’ year
HIGH SCHOOLERS YOU'RE INVITED! 9TH - 12TH GRADERS...JOIN US!
July 25th l
VBS Teen Leaders!! June 1st-5th JUNE Celebration Mr. Tom runs a HUGE Survivor Game challenge night...you don’t want to miss!
Soccer Cup Tournament! June 16 10-3 at St. Peters th
Diocesan Elitches Day!! July 22nd
Teens...I am very excited for our summer of fun! Here is a list of the dates of what is being planned SO FAR ! If you would like to add to our summer calendar, just let me know! Some of our activities will need you to be registered... so watch the newsletter and your texts so that you don’t miss out on any activities you’d like to join. If you have any questions please email me at Stacy@OurLadyofthePines.org. Can’t wait for our summer! -Mrs. Stacy
Summer Fun Days and Teen Lead Bible Study
Do You know... Over Easter weekend, our parish family celebrated with a total of 3,594 beautiful souls! This is largely thanks to all of our liturgical volunteers. From our Clergy, Hospitality, Altar Servers, Lectors, Musicians, Life and Safety, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, and Teen Parking Lot Helpers.
Charles Alpar, David Alpar, Megan Aboulafia, Mylene Aboulafia, Solomon Baase, Traft Baase, Jan Balak, Matthew Bauernfeind, Clara Benavides, Debbie Beschorner, John Beschorner, Mitch Beschorner, Maria Bettencourt, Nancy Billiard, Lori Black, Steven Black, Katie Bohlin, Bill Bollwerk, Eric Bowers, Cheryl Bralica, Arlene Breuker, Ted Breuker, Benjamin Bullard, Charlotte Bullard, Cheryl Cahill, Liz Camacho, Regina Casey, Al Castinado, Michelle Castinado, Sam Chenoweth, Tim Connelly, Bethany Cornelio, Mike Crocker, Denise Davies, David Dietz, Pamela Diffley, Rick Dings, Kevin Dunbaugh, Rich Fazio, Stephen Fleet, Pierre Gaudreault, Ernesto Garcia, Kat Garcia, M Colleen Gorman, Scott Hansen, Virginia Hancock, Charlotte Haselhorst, Beth Hopster, Jerry Hopster, Jason Ingrum, Kristi Ingrum, Harper Jamison, Jaxson Jamison, Olivia Jamison, Paige Jensen, Paul Jensen, Kimberly Kasper, Patty Kathmann, Tanya Klepper, Duane Kuehn, Connie LaChance, Brian LaMay, Christina Lowery, Michael Lowery, Serafina Lowery, Terry Manwaring, Rob Mazany, Maddie McGuire, Virginia Michaelson, Brina O'Lear, John O'Rourke, Marta Panus, Ollie Parent, Tyce Parent, Ann Pavlik, Teresa Peck, Brian Polacek, Greg Prestgard, Terri Roney, Will Roper, Molly Scott, Chris Serna, Olivia Short, Dan Snowberger, Olga Snowberger, Mike Snyder, Gary Spoto, Becky Strub, Elizabeth Strub, Mark Strub, Suzy Streeter, Brent Suerdieck, Grant Suerdieck, William Suerdieck, David Sutherland, Julianna Sutherland, Scotty Sutherland, Joel Swanson, Stephanie Swanson, Terry Teach, Tom Tenpenny, Phillip Thomas, Matthew Truesdell, Jacob Vandaveer, Jonathan Vandaveer, Brendan Vaughan, Christina Waite, Joe Waite, Keith Wawrzyniak, Tammy Wehrman, Bill Zahn, Kate Zahn
Please know that this magazine is for you and about you! If you have a story to share, an accomplishment to tell us about, a family you’d like highlighted or ministry you’d like to share, please email Stacy Paris at Stacy@OurLadyofthePines.org.
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