Parish Ministries

ACCA is a coalition of churches founded in 1967 by Fred and Emily Ruffing from Queen of Apostles Church. ACCA volunteers serve the local community with provision of furniture, a food pantry, and transportation, Meals on Wheels, family emergency, house restoration, student scholarships, and shelter support. ACCA has a Child Development Center (CDC) which provides affordable, high-quality early education and day car for children ages 3 months to 5 years. The ACCA Board meets monthly at one of the participating churches. The July meeting is usually held at Queen of Apostles. ACCA participates in a number of community/school events and food drives.

Coordinator: Karen & Joe Barnoski

Phone: (703) 256-4088

Email: larksville@aol.com

Key Persons: Anne and Jim Kemble and Family; Terry Baker; Marie Markey; Mary Carroll

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Deliver food from the food pantry to clients, assist at the furniture warehouse, drive clients to medical appointments, assist with Rebuilding Together house repair, help stock food in the food pantry. ACCA can be an opportunity for students to complete community service hours.

30 hours...

Many of the previous activities can be included, along with assisting with family emergencies calls, and assisting the CDC.

Other ways to help:

ACCA operates year-round, and help is always needed. There are many opportunities for volunteers.

We work with the Poor Sisters of St. Joseph and with Catholic Charities to identify children in need with over 250 gifts that our parishioners give each Advent. Angel tree service can be an opportunity for students to complete service hours. It is also a good family activity!

Coordinator: Parish Office

Phone: (703) 354-8711

Email: general@queenofapostles.org

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Help cut, glue, hang and label angels. Bring presents from the church to the Rectory Office and sort them.

Assist the clergy in the celebration of the Mass and serve our Lord in the Eucharist. Altar boys, grades 4 and higher, also assist with other liturgies, weddings, baptisms, funerals, processions, school Masses, feasts, holy days, and sacramental Masses. Altar servers are assigned to a team of 3-4 boys to serve Saturday Vigil or Sunday Mass. Assignments are rotated so that teams serve about every other week. Servers are to arrive no less than 15 minutes before Mass. There is annual training in September/October. The Diocese of Arlington hosts an annual picnic in August. Also, there are several group and family activities during the year including hosting the Vocations Crucifix.

Adult altar servers assist the clergy in the celebration of daily Mass.

Coordinator: Susan Gray

Phone: (703) 354-8711

Email: s.gray@queenofapostles.org

Key Persons: Mike Kirby

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Serve 15 liturgies over the year. Assist in the group meetings and activities.

30 hours...

Serve 30 liturgies over the year. Assist in the group meetings and liturgies.

45 hours...

Serve as assistant coordinator of the ministry.

Other ways to help:

Parent volunteers can help with maintaining the surplices and cassocks, and planning group activities.

Clean linens and church altar on Saturday mornings, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Coordinator: Maria Fox

Phone: (703) 354-0714

Email: m.fox@queenofapostles.org

Coordinator Since: January 2015

Key Persons: Mary Carroll

Banica Mission is a partnership between the Diocese of Arlington, VA, and the Diocese of San Juan de la Maguana, serving 10,000 poor people in the rural area of the Dominican Republic on the border of Haiti. “We are one body in Christ and everyone members one of another” (Romans 12:4). Every year we look for youth between the ages of 16 to early 20s, and some adult volunteers to chaperone.

Coordinator: Mother Maria Gonzalez

Phone: (703) 354-0395

Coordinator Since: June 2009

Key Persons: Josephine Balsamo, Co-Coordinator

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Any parishioner interested can help with fund-raising events.

Other ways to help:

Every year we look for youth between the ages 16 to early 20s, and some adult volunteers to chaperone.

Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and the protection of the Blessed Mother, this ministry helps adults to deepen their understanding of Holy Scripture and Catholic Tradition, and to acquire basic Bible literacy.

Sessions are taught by well-known experts in Catholic theology via video presentation, which is then followed by a lively facilitated group discussion. There is a nominal fee to cover study materials and program costs.

Many deep friendships have formed among those who have joined these studies and shared their faith, their struggles, and their prayers throughout the years—in the classroom, at optional social activities, and in daily life. The program is directed by a volunteer Steering Group, under the guidance of our pastor.

E-mail: Elizabeth Said elizabethsaid2@gmail.com

Volunteer Opportunities: Discussion Facilitators, Hospitality Team, Logistics & Setup Team, Promotion Team, Social Event Coordinators, Track Leaders

Coordinator: Elizabeth Said

Email: elizabethsaid2@gmail.com

Coordinator Since: October 2010

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

At present there are three semesters—Fall, Winter and Spring—which typically last 8 weeks. Students commit to 90-minute classes once a week, and about an hour of weekly reading and workbook assignments between classes.

Replace the votive candles in the Vestibule after the 9:00 a.m. weekday Mass. Provide the 5-day votive candles when requested. Clean the glass holders and stands as needed. The stands are usually cleaned about every 3 months. Order candle supplies on a monthly basis.

Coordinator: Patty McGuire

Phone: (703) 354-2872

Coordinator Since: November 2011

Key Persons: Michael McGuire

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Serve as back-up to replace the candles if coordinators can’t get to church (e.g., out of town or early morning appointments).

Decorate the church before the Christmas and Easter holidays.

Coordinator: Parish Office

Phone: (703) 354-8711

Email: general@queenofapostles.org

We serve the parish by counting the collections on Sundays and major Holy Days.

Coordinator: Mike Quintos

Phone: (703) 354-4089

Email: quintos.mike@gmail.com

Coordinator Since: October 2012

Key Persons: Gerald Curry, Former Coordinator

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Serve as substitute counters to cover for regularly scheduled counters who are absent.

30 hours...

Serve as a regularly scheduled counter to count about 6 times a year for about 4 hours every 7th Sunday.

45 hours...

Same as above except that volunteers can be scheduled more often than every 7th Sunday.

Other ways to help:

A technical person who can improve and simplify the existing Excel program that is used by the counters and also to take care of technical issues in the use of the counters’ laptop.

Couples for Christ (CFC) is a movement intended for the renewal and strengthening of Christian family life. The members have committed themselves to the Lord and to one another so that they may grow in maturity as men and women of God and fulfill their primary vocation of raising up families under the lordship of Jesus Christ and for the service of the Kingdom of God.

Couples for Christ is a work of Christ which raises up Christian couples and establishes Christian families committed to the work of evangelization, winning the world for Christ and Total Human Liberation through the power of the Holy Spirit.

It grows mainly through the establishment of localized units in different parishes.

Coordinator: Nenita DeGuzman

Phone: (571) 286-0867

Email: n.deguzman@queenofapostles.org

Meeting on Fridays (except the last Friday of the month) from 6:00-8:00 PM, Emmaus provides a place of growth in Catholic life through spiritual and human formation, sharing, and friendship.

On the first Friday of the month is Open Gym. We play sports with high school and college students at the Queen of Apostles Gym. After the sporting activities, pizza is provided, followed by prayer and/or a talk on how to live our faith.

Other Fridays include activities such as Adoration, an Apostolic Project, and discussions on living the Catholic faith. Emmaus meetings are held at Notre Dame Graduate School (4407 Sano Street). Additionally, students may attend a Bible Study on Thursday nights, 6:00-7:30 PM.

Some activities are being planned to be held on weekends.

Coordinator: Sarah Calvino

Phone: (703) 220-0562

Email: s.calvino@queenofapostles.org

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

On a rotating basis, assist with supervising Open Gym and other Emmaus activities. All adult volunteers, 18 years and older and not in high school, who work with youth are required by the Diocese of Arlington, Office for the Protection of Children/Young People to complete Virginia Background Check paperwork (notary to sign one of the pages) as well as to attend a VIRTUS seminar within 45 days of starting volunteering. The adult volunteer packet is available from the parish office.

Eucharistic Adoration is the Adoration of Jesus Christ present in the Holy Eucharist. The Eucharist is displayed in a special holder called a monstrance, and people come to the Chapel to pray and worship continually throughout the day and night. Through Eucharistic Adoration, Jesus becomes the very Center and Life of the parish. Jesus waits for us in this Sacrament of Love. Through this Ministry, parishioners commit to attending an hour in prayer in the Chapel, at the same time each week.

The coordinators communicate with the Adorers and serve as information resources regarding schedules, security and emergency procedures. Sign-up events for new Adorers take place twice a year, which also serve as an opportunity to recognize the good work of the Ministry and Adorers.

Coordinator: Alexa Urban; Rosalie Mainey; Nenita DeGuzman

Phone: (703) 241-1096; (703) 256-5765; (571) 286-0867

Email: moleski47@gmail.com; rosalieam@msn.com; n.deguzman@queenofapostles.org

Coordinator Since: 2010

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Sign up for one hour of adoration per month, and attend one of the sign-up events; or, serve as a substitute adorer.

30 hours...

Sign up for two hours of adoration per month, and help up set up for and attend the sign-up events.

45 hours...

This plus 7 hours (52 hours total) and you would become one of our regular weekly adorers.

Other ways to help:

Parishioners can participate in the Adoration Committee to manage the Ministry for the parish program.

Parishioners can serve as hourly coordinators for a one hour block of time throught the week to ensure that an Adorer is present at that specific hour each weekday. He or she also serves as an information resource for his/her Adorers regarding schedules, changes to schedules, vacation changes and emergency procedures.

A Division Coordinator manages a 6 hour block of time to ensure that Adorers are scheduled for each hour. Also serves as an information resource.

We have a written mandate from the Diocese to assist the ordinary ministers of Holy Communion (i.e., Priests and Deacons) during the Liturgy by providing the Holy Eucharist to parishioners at Mass. A very special aspect of this ministry is to take Holy Communion to the parish homebound. We also bring the weekly bulletin to the homebound, make note of any special needs (e.g., requiring Sacrament of Reconciliation), and make note of who received and who did not and why. Ministers are welcome to share the message of the Homily from Mass and the readings themselves by bringing along the Missalette.

Coordinator: Gerard Christman

Phone: (703) 256-6293

Email: g.christman@queenofapostles.org

Coordinator Since: November 2014

Key Persons: Mike Kirby, Immediate Past Coordinator; Fr. Paul DeLadaurantaye, Training

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Perform approximately 7 shifts on the schedule (throughout the year) in service to the parish home bound after the Sunday 9 a.m. Mass.

30 hours...

15 appearances (Sundays throughout the year) on the home bound schedule after the 9 a.m. Mass.

45 hours...

Greet parishioners before and after one weekend service for most weekends throughout the year.

Other ways to help:

During the year there are opportunities to substitute.

About three hundred Ghanaian Catholics in the Arlington Diocese worship at Queen of Apostles. Activities include: Sunday Mass, prayer ministry on Wednesdays, and choir and youth singing ministries on Saturdays. We also have associations such as the St. Theresa of the Child Jesus and Christian mothers groups within the community that we serve.

Coordinator: Victor Appiah

Phone: (703) 981-1505

Email: angeldea2@yahoo.com

Coordinator Since: September 2013

Key Persons: Fr. Tony Appiah, Spiritual Director; Julius Caesar, Co-Coordinator

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Visit the sick, or join the Wednesday prayers for intercessions.

30 hours...

Help the Sunday school or babysitting for those in need.

Other ways to help:

There is a need for teaching English as a second language.

Charter: To make a difference and build a future in the six key areas of service – faith, community, family, youth, fellowship and respect for life. To support religious outreach and promote vocations in an effort to strengthen the faith that unites us. Ministry Schedule: Meetings take place every second Wednesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at 4200 Martin Avenue, Annandale, VA 22003 Major Events: KOVAR, Keep Christ In Christmas Card Campaign, Appalachian Mission Event, Christmas Baskets Event, Angel Bread Event every Wednesday morning.

Coordinator: Roger Williams, Grand Knight

Email: sbrog11@yahoo.com

30 hours...

Spend 9 hours working with Knights of Columbus Pope John Paul II Council 4522 on charitable projects, 8 hours enjoying a council social function such as a picnic with your entire family; 5 hours a year attending KofC Pope John Paul II Council 4522 meetings to help future activities; 6 hours (half an hour a month) reading the Knights’ magazine Columbia and visiting the Knights’ website www.kofc.org; 1 hour meeting with a Knights of Columbus insurance agent for a free analysis of your family’s insurance needs and to learn about the KofC exclusive, top-rated programs available only to members and their families; and 1 hour attending Mass together with KofC Pope John Paul II Council 4522.

Serve as the Lectors for the weekend Masses in English.

Coordinator: Gregory Milas

Phone: (571) 970-6073

Email: gmilas@msn.com

Coordinator Since: August 2014

Key Persons: Josephine Balsamo, Co-Coordinator

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Serve as the Lector at one weekend Mass once a month.

30 hours...

Serve as the Lector at two weekend Masses once a month.

45 hours...

Serve as a weekend Lector and a weekday Lector.

Membership in the worldwide Legion of Mary organization fulfills the appeal of the Church for “New Evangelization”; the call for evangelization in the Diocese through Bishop Loverde’s Pastoral Letter, “Go Forth with Hearts on Fire”; and the Queen of Apostles Parish Vision statement, “growing in discipleship of Christ, eager to invite others to join our family”. Our Parish Legion “Praesidium”, under the patronage of Mary, Our Lady of Hope, provides a spiritual resource for personal spiritual formation and a valuable evangelization asset for the parish family.

Spiritual Formation: Active Legionaries attend a weekly meeting of 1.5 hours with a program of prayer, study, allocution, reporting and planning. Active members recite the Legionary “Cetena” daily, and follow the system of the Legion according to its official Handbook. Under the patronage of Our Blessed Mother, the meeting provides personal growth in discipleship and the formation of an intentional community with the object of love and zeal for evangelizing others.

Evangelization: Active members perform a weekly work assignment of two hours, according to Parish needs, reaching out to others in some form of the following: Teaching and/or informing others about Religious Education instruction and RCIA sponsorship; door-to-door visitations offering information and invitation to Queen of Apostles Church, and, if Catholic, offering contacts needed for Religious Education, RCIA, or Sacraments; visiting and praying with the sick in homes or hospitals; contacting families in the parish to foster Catholic devotions, such as enthronement of the Sacred Heart, and visitation of the Pilgrim Virgin statue; contacting and visiting new parishioners to welcome them and offer information. Active members devote approximately 3.5 hours weekly to this ministry.

Coordinator: Jim Bailey, President

Phone: (703) 354-1832

Key Persons: Deacon Richard Caporiccio, Spiritual Director; Jean Hetsko, Vice President (703) 750-2241

Other ways to help:

Auxiliary Members devote approximately 30 minutes daily to pray the Legion “Tessera”, which also includes praying the Rosary.

La Legión de María fué fundada por Frank Duff, el 7 de Septiembre de 1921 en Dublín, Irlanda. La Legión de María es una asociación de católicos, perfectamente organizada, que persigue la santificación de sus miembros a través de la evangelización. Tiene como fin la gloria de Dios mediante la formación espiritual, oración, y la colaboración activa en la obra de la Iglesia. El centro de la vida de la Legión de María es la parroquia. Los legionarios colaboran con el Párroco en la obra de la Iglesia, invitando a los miembros de las familias a integrarse a la parroquia y si lo requieren, a inscribirse en clases de formación religiosa para adultos, o en clases de catecismo en el caso de los niños, con el fin de recibir los sacramentos de la iglesia católica.

Puede pertenecer a la Legión de María todo católico que practique fielmente su religión.

Formación Espiritual: La reunión semanal de los Miembros Activos comienza con el rezo de la téssera y el rosario, seguido de una lectura espiritual tomada de nuestro manual de la legión, se lee el acta de la reunion anterior, se da el reporte de los trabajos, seguido de un breve allocutio, se discute la lectura del manual, se asigna los trabajos para la siguiente semana y se termina con las oraciones finales.

Evangelización: El trabajo semanal que realizan los Miembros Activos consiste en Visitas de la Virgen Peregrina a los hogares, Puerta a Puerta, Contacto Callejero, Entronizacion del Corazón de Jesús en los hogares, Visitas al enfermo, Visitas al Senior Center, Visitas a Miembros Auxiliares, Rezo del rosario al velar a los difuntos así como novenarios para difuntos. Nos reunimos los lunes de 07:00 a 08:30 p.m. en el salón Cupertino del colegio de la Parroquia Reina de los Apóstoles.

Coordinator: Carmen Dupuy

Phone: (571) 236-7239

Email: dupuycarmen@yahoo.com

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Los Miembros Auxiliares dedican de 15 a 30 minutos diarios en el rezo de el rosario y las oraciones contenidas en la téssera. Los Miembros Activos dedican aproximadamente un total de 3.5 horas a las semana para este Ministerio.

La liturgia nos ofrece muchos modos de participar. Podemos ayudar como lectores, ministros extraordinarios de la comunión, ujieres o presentando el pan y el vino, preparando los boletines o recogiendo después de la misa. El coro es también un hermoso modo de hacer más bella y participativa la liturgia. A través de la puntualidad y el modo de vestir los voluntarios de liturgia ayudarán a la solemnidad de la Misa.

Coordinator: Javier Bustamante

Email: jb7ssva@gmail.com

“The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art. The main reason for this pre­eminence is that, as a combination of sacred music and words, it forms a necessary or integral part of solemn liturgy” (SC112).

Queen of Apostles welcomes Youth and Adults of all skill levels to participate in Music Ministry. Musicians minister to our parish by providing beautiful music that enhances our liturgies. Just as an awe-­inspiring cathedral with statues and stained glass invites Christians into a prayerful and reverent mindset, our liturgical music should do the same.

The goal of our music is to lift the congregation’s hearts and minds to the Lord. Vocalists and instrumentalists have a vocation to bring an atmosphere of prayer and praise to the congregation we serve. We are always seeking new members that feel called to serve the parish in a musical capacity or support capacity.

There are opportunities to serve for the English, Spanish, and Ghanaian Masses.

Opportunities:

Adult Choir and Youth Choir – Both choirs provide an opportunity for members of the parish community to participate in Music Ministry as vocalists from September to June. Throughout the year the choirs sing separately or as part of a combined choir for the 10:30am mass on Sundays and for other special events and Feast Days. Rehearsals are Tuesday nights in the Choir Room (below the church in Hannan Hall) from 7:30 – 9:00pm.

Instrumentalists – We invite all instrumentalists to contact the DMM about opportunities to play for liturgical services, parish gatherings, and other special events. We welcome all instruments and skill levels. Many of our instrumentalists are also part of our vocal ensembles. Please know that you are always welcome to join our choirs even if you do not consider yourself a singer.

Queen of Apostles School Children’s Choir – The Children’s Choir for School Mass (Grades 4­8) provides music for the 9:00am Friday weekly mass and approximately once a month for the 12:00pm Sunday Mass throughout the school year. This vocal ensemble is open to students in grades 4­8 who attend Queen of Apostles and it rehearses every Thursday from 3:15 ­ 4:30pm.

Parish Children’s Choir – Coming Soon! Cantors – We are seeking volunteer cantors that feel called to serve the community through song and lift the congregation up in prayer. The DMM will provide training to develop individuals as cantors.

Schola Ensembles – Small vocal ensembles or scholas will provide music for liturgies occasionally throughout the year. This is a good opportunity for singers to gain experience as cantors in a small group setting, and also to become more familiar with Gregorian chant.

Spanish Music Ministry – We are seeking parishioners to volunteer as cantors and as members of the Spanish Choir (coming soon). Cantors and the Spanish Choir provide music for the 7:00pm Saturday Spanish Mass from September to June and additionally for special events and Feast Days. Rehearsals are Saturday nights in the Choir Room (below the church in Hannan Hall) at 6:00pm before mass begins.

Ghana Choir – The Ghana Choir provides music for the 2:00pm Sunday Mass and rehearses every Saturday from 7:00 ­to 9:00pm.
Sound/Recording – We are seeking volunteers that are willing to help with sound during the masses with ensembles, especially for special events and Feast Days. We would also like to record some of our music and are seeking volunteers interested in recording, social media, video, etc.

Other Needs – Volunteers are needed to support the Music Ministry program with administrative work such as filing, copying, computer work, and assisting with children before and after rehearsals/masses. Youth in need of Community Service Hours can fulfill their requirements as part of a musical ensemble or by helping the DMM with administrative tasks. If you are interested in volunteering in a non­musical capacity, please contact the DMM with your availability and areas of interest.

Coordinator: Michelle Jacobeen, Director of Music Ministry

Phone: (703) 354-8711

Email: m.jacobeen@queenofapostles.org

Coordinator Since: July 2015

Key Persons: Christina Lebron, QofA School Music Teacher, c.lebron@queenofapostles.org; Bernard Atta-Boateng, Choirmaster of the Ghana Community

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

​Serve as Cantor, Instrumentalist, Sound Technician for about 1 mass per month. Serve as an adult supervisor for the Children’s Choir before and after masses.

30 hours...

Serve as Cantor, Instrumentalist, Sound Technician for 2 masses per month. Volunteer an hour of time to administrative tasks every other week.

45 hours...

​Serve as Cantor, Instrumentalist, Sound Technician or a combination weekly throughout the choir season (September to June). Volunteer an hour of time to administrative tasks weekly throughout the choir season (September to June).

Other ways to help:

​Music for our liturgies can be a large commitment, but it is also one of the most vital to our worship and one of the most rewarding. Giving of your time and talent weekly is a sacrifice that the entire parish appreciates and benefits from. If you have been given the gift of music please consider sharing it with your parish family!

We serve students in grades 4-8 by helping them grow in their relationship with Jesus. We offer them suggestions to practice their faith at home, at school, and in their parish. Students can make new friends, play some games, and learn from parish leaders. Nazareth meetings are scheduled on the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month, 3:45-5:30 PM in Hannan Hall/School Gym.

Coordinator: Sarah Calvino

Phone: (703) 220-0562

Email: s.calvino@queenofapostles.org

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Help coordinate parent “check-in/out” and “snack” rotations.

There are myriad ways to serve your parish through the support of our office functions. Recurring projects include ministries support (administrative), new parishioner processing and correspondence, data processing, coordinating and providing hands-on labor for facilities projects, and other critical needs for a cost-minded parish staff.

Coordinator: Director of Operations and Stewardship

Phone: (703) 354-8711

Email: d.cook@queenofapostles.org

Coordinator Since: November 2014

Key Persons: Michelle Stakem, Parish Secretary; Flora Wack, Office Supervisor

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Assist with once- or twice-a-year projects such as holiday mailers and major event preparations.

30 hours...

Assist with once- or twice-a-year projects such as holiday mailers and major event preparations.

45 hours...

Provide scheduled, recurring office support 4 hours per month (hours are generally flexible).

On October 23, 1968, a Community of Poor Sisters of St. Joseph was founded in Alexandria (Virginia). The good sisters founded a child care center for children and opened their doors in September of 1970. The Child Care Center was called San Gabriel, in gratitude to Archbishop Gabriel Maiorielo who was a providential protector to the sisters in the United States. He was father, mentor and guide to the Sisters, was available to them at any time, attentive and generous in providing everything they needed, were it material or spiritual.

Accreditation: St. Gabriel’s Day Care Center is fully accredited through the Commonwealth of Virginia to operate within the County of Fairfax. We are compliant with all state regulations and requirments for child care facilities. Our licensure is available for inspection by appointment.

History of the Poor Sisters of Saint Joseph: The Congregation of Poor Sisters of Saint Joseph was founded in Mercedes, a village near Buenos Aires, the Capital of Argentina. Mother Camila Rolon was the founding mother superior for this newly formed religious congregation. Mother Camila’s life was one of heroic love of God, and a zealous desire to help the poor and suffering.

On January 28, 1880, the young Camila moved out of her father’s house and, accompanied by two friends and eleven orphan girls, journeyed to the village of Mercedes to begin their divine adventure. Letting charity become the ideal of their life, they settled down in an old, poor house, however, Camila’s tremendous faith and total reliance upon Divine Providence, strengthened her to go on with the work she had envisioned for the greater part of her life.

A rich and generous gentleman, Leon Gallardo, heard about Mother Camila’s orphanage and he promised to erect a building that would serve as the Mother House for this newly emerging Congregation. This promise became a reality, in 1889, at which time the Mother House was established in Muñiz, Buenos Aires. Hundreds of children found refuge in the loving care offered by the humble congregation and, in Camila, Rolon, they embraced a second mother.

Mother Camila was destined for even greater works by God when she was inspired to establish a community of sisters to continue and expand the works of charity for love of God and for His Church. With great prudence and zeal, she directed her community for thirty three years having established thirty two houses of charity and two novitiates, throughout Argentina, Uruguay and Italy.

She died in Rome, on February 16, 1913, leaving behind a wonderful legacy of great sanctity. In 1950, her cause for beatification was introduced in Rome and, on April 2, 1993, the Magisterium of the Church, guided by His Holiness John Paul II, recognized the sanctity of Mother Camila of Saint Joseph Rolon, by the Decree in which her heroic virtues were examined and she was declared “Venerable”. Today, many people have received blessings and spiritual healing through her intercession.

The charism of the Poor Sisters of Saint Joseph is HOLY EVANGLICAL POVERTY: Conforming to the perfect example of Christ Filially obedient to the Father that is expressed in the practice of indiscriminant charity to all, with a particular devotion to caring for the poor, abandoned Children young people, the helpless aged and indigent sick.

Their main Patron is Saint Joseph, so their spirituality takes on the characteristics of the “clean, beautiful and perfect poverty of Nazareth” as lived so beautifully by the Holy Family. Simplicity, In the world yet not of the world, love and complete reliance upon Divine Providence, fraternal love and mutual care among them.

The Blessed Virgin of Mount Carmel, “Queen and Lady of the Congregation”, under whose protection the Congregation was placed, gives the poor sisters of St. Joseph a special character, expressed in their belonging to the Carmelite family.

Saint and Doctor of the Church, Teresa of Avila, espoused “God alone suffices.” As a favored Patron Saint of the poor sisters, Mother Camila very closely identified with this particular aspect of Carmelite spirituality in that she lived in total devotion to and absolute reliance upon God alone. She inspired and continues to inspire those who are blessed to follow her excellent example; This simple understanding and Way of Life.

Their mission in the Church of God is to be proclaimers of the Good News of salvation.

Coordinator: Mother Maria Gonzalez

Email: mgonzalezpssj@aol.com

Organizing and collecting prayers for the parish Spiritual Bouquet for our priests at Queen of Apostles in honor of Priesthood Sunday celebrated on the last Sunday in October.

Coordinator: Parish Office

Phone: (703) 354-8711

Email: general@queenofapostles.org

40 Days for Life, Baby Bottle Collection, March for Life, and reciting the Rosary on Saturdays at the abortion clinic.

Coordinator: Larry Cirignano

Email: larryvote@gmail.com

Coordinator Since: 2013

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Help with bus sign-ups and sign-ups for 40 Days for Life.

30 hours...

Coordinate the Pro-Life table for one Sunday five times a year.

45 hours...

Coordinate 40 Days for Life.

www.queenofapostlesschool.org

Coordinator: Jodi Reagan, Principal

Phone: (703) 354-0714

Email: info@queenofapostlesschool.org

Coordinator: Tom Tennant, PTO President

Email: QoASchoolPTO@gmail.com

Overview

The Religious Education program at Queen of Apostles serves students in kindergarten (at least 5 years old) through high school. Together with your child’s catechist, we welcome this opportunity to assist your son or daughter in living the Christian life: learning to pray, knowing the Bible and learning Scripture, and preparing for the sacraments.

The first day of Religious Education is the second Sunday in September and the last class is the first Sunday in June. Classes, taught in English, are held on Sundays at Queen of Apostles School (4409 Sano Street) from 9:00 to 10:15 AM. Students and their families may attend Mass before or after Religious Education class.

Registration

Religious Education registration opens in late April and closes in early September. Register early to ensure enrollment in the respective grade because some classes reach capacity. Students will be assigned to the Religious Education class that parallels to his/her school grade; if your student is attending 3rd grade in public school, he/she will be assigned to the 3rd grade Religious Education class.

Because each year builds on the next year of faith formation, students must attend at least two consecutive years of Religious Education before a Sacrament is administered and have no more than three absences in the school year. Generally and based on the baptized student’s desire and preparation, First Penance/First Holy Communion is received in grade 2 and higher and Confirmation is received in grade 8 and higher. Parents of unbaptized children under the age of 7, please contact the parish office at 703-354-8711.

If you are interested in registering your child for Religious Education class, please stop by the Parish Office (4329 Sano Street) to complete a registration form and pay tuition, or print and complete the form below and bring it to the office. Also, please bring a copy of your child’s baptismal (if applicable) and birth certificate.

Tuition is $70 for 1 child, $120 for 2 children, and $150 for 3+ children in the same family. A $20 fee for registrations received after August 1 or for non-parishioners is imposed. Tuition does not include fees associated with First Communion, Confirmation, and Sacraments of Initiation.

Catechists/Aides

If you are interested in sharing your love of the Catholic faith by serving as a volunteer catechist or aide in Religious Education, please contact the Parish Office, or e-mail s.gray@queenofapostles.org. We welcome your willingness to become involved with this ministry! Catechists also have the opportunity to participate in half day retreats, attend the Catechetical Conference, and enroll in the Diocesan Master Catechist Training Program. All adult volunteers, 18 years and older and not in high school, who work with youth are required by the Diocese of Arlington, Office for the Protection of Children/Young People to complete Virginia Background Check paperwork (notary to sign one of the pages) as well as to attend a VIRTUS seminar within 45 days of starting volunteering. The adult volunteer packet is available from the parish office.

Coordinator: Susan Gray

Phone: (703) 354-8711

Email: s.gray@queenofapostles.org

45 hours...

Serve as a Catechist for 2.5 hours per week, which includes preparation for the class, rehearsals when applicable and retreats if applicable.

Other ways to help:

Assist with office work: During the summer months to prepare for the school year; and at other times of year to help with phone calls, preparation of registration forms, and letters and calls to parents. On Sundays, adult and youth volunteers assist during the school year assist with registration, setup and teardown, and room monitoring.

There are three different Rosary groups at Queen of Apostles:

(1) Every Friday at the Lincolnia Adult Daycare Center at 1 p.m. (Terri Baker, 703-256-3915)

(2) Every weekday before the 9 a.m. Mass (Mary O’Donohue and Joseph Manson)

(3) Every 3rd Saturday after the 8 a.m. Mass at the abortion clinic at 101 S. Whiting St (Pat & Mary Moran, 703-354-6787)

Coordinator:

Todos los sábados en la escuela de 4:00 a 6:30 pm Forma parte de la renovación carismática de la Diócesis de Arlington.

Coordinator: Milagro Chicas

Phone: (703) 590-0347

Under the patronage of St. Ann, grandmother of our Lord, we support, encourage, and assist each other in our adventures of homeschooling and Catholic family life.

Spiritual — Monthly Mass, weekly prayer list, traveling Vocations Crucifix, Pray-and-Playgroup, Children’s Holy Hour.

Social — monthly themed Family Night, Moms’ Tea, Couples’ Night, annual Mother/Daughter Tea, annual Father/Son pancake breakfast.

Service — Helping with Carpenter’s Shelter and other needs as they arise.

Cultural/Enrichment — field trips, academic clubs, theater trips, and other opportunities as they arise.

Coordinator: Genevieve Erkens

Phone: (703) 719-7955

Coordinator Since: August 2013

Formerly known as the Sons of St. Joseph, the St. Joseph Men’s Group hosts monthly get-togethers for prayer, study and fellowship. Meetings take place the fourth Wednesday of the month from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Other activities of the group include family cookouts, athletic activities such as basketball open gym, and service projects.

Coordinator: Dave Cook

Phone: (202) 725-7226

Email: cookdc@gmail.com

Coordinator Since: September 2013

Key Persons: Fr. Leopoldo M. Vives, Spiritual Director

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Attend our monthly meetings, September through May.

30 hours...

Attend monthly meetings and also participate in our service projects and family gatherings.

Stephen Ministry is an extension of pastoral care which provides a one to one care to individuals who are experiencing difficulties or a wide range of life’s stressors such as loss of a loved one, hospitalization, separation or divorce, loneliness, discouragement, emotional or spiritual crises, unemployment or job crises, chronic illness, terminal illness, , aging, relocation, recovery after an accident, birth, adoption, miscarriage, and/ or infertility, at no cost to the receiver.

Stephen Ministry is designed to train & equip lay persons to provide a high quality one to one Christ centered care, in & around congregations with emphasis on confidentiality.

If you could commit, you would:
Attend 50 hours of Stephen Ministry initial training
Provide Care as a Stephen Minister once weekly.
Meet with the Stephen Ministry group for 2 & 1/2 hours twice monthly for Supervision & Continuing Education.

Coordinator: Maris Dionisio

Phone: (703) 751-8495

Email: stephenministry@queenofapostles.org

Key Persons: Fr. Leopoldo M. Vives

Pray for our priests, the sick, other needs of the parish, and for our own personal intentions. Prayer meeting takes place on the 2nd and 4th Sundays from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Adoration Chapel.

Coordinator: Joe & Rosalie Mainey

Phone: (703) 256-5765

Coordinator Since: January 1986

Provide social reception after all Masses on 1st Sunday of every month(and on special occasions) for all parish members.

Coordinator: Rick & Clarissa Sacra

Phone: (703) 354-1610

Email: pgfwabf1@verizon.net

Coordinator Since: January 2010

Key Persons: Karen Barnoski; Joan Pesata

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Help out after one mass or for set up or clean up one Sunday per month. Help is most needed at set up and clean up.

30 hours...

Help with the shopping on the days before the social.

Other ways to help:

Calling the volunteers each month to remind them of the social and make sure they can make their schedule work times. Recruit additional helpers for after the 9 and 10:30 Masses.

Coordinator: Cesar Anchiraico

Phone: (949) 933-5185

Email: canchiraic@aol.com

Coordinator Since: May, 2016

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Help welcome people to Mass and get them seated. Take up the collection and help with selecting and assisting the gifts for the offertory. Assist in keeping the Communion process orderly. One week a month and Holidays.

30 hours...

Same as above: 2 weeks a month and holidays.

45 hours...

Same as above: 3 weeks a month and holidays.

Program for youth of parish and neighborhood from preschool through high school. Primary focus is on students in PreK – 5th grade, with grades 6 – 8 serving as junior leaders (captains), and assisted by high school students as guides and activity station leaders. Activities include crafts, games, chapel and music, missionaries class, snacks, and group assemblies.

Program operates one week in summer, Mon – Fri, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., in the parish school. Planning and rehearsals for junior leaders through adult volunteers take place on the two preceding Saturdays at the school.

Diocesan OCPYM compliance, including VIRTUS and background check, will be required of all volunteers who are age 18 and older.

Coordinator: Joseph Manson & Anne Souser

Email: vbs@queenofapostles.org

Coordinator Since: February 2012

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Serve as a guide or activity station leader.

30 hours...

Serve as a Scheduler or Assemblies Coordinator.

45 hours...

Serve as Program Co-Coordinator.

Coordinate all weddings with the bride, groom, family, various vendors, priests, music director, and parish staff. Set up the church, assist with the rehearsal and actual wedding (flowers, photographer questions, processional, Mass, etc.), collect and distribute fees.

Coordinator: Cathaee Hudgins & Carolyn Fanning

Phone: (703) 354-7245 or (703) 608-6814

Email: cathaee.hudgins@dc.gov or ckley@aol.com

Coordinator Since: 2005

Key Persons: America Baez, Weddings in Spanish

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Become part of the wedding committee and be on hand to coordinate weddings. It is very important to have several committee members since schedule conflicts arise and we need to have a pool from which we can draw coordinators.

This ministry cordially invites all parish women to enjoy the faith and fellowship, service and joy that are the basis of the women’s group.

Program Objectives

Spiritual Development: Both group and personal growth are fostered by inspirational speakers, day trips to holy places, and mutual sharing of our faith journey.

Service Projects: All projects are directed toward our parish, elementary school and community, based on the spiritual and corporal works of mercy, as the need arises.

Social Activities: Members build community by celebrating holiday events together, sharing family stories and traditions as well as personal achievements, travels and meaningful experiences.

Activity Details

Members meet two hours on the second Wednesday of each month, from September through June, in Hannan Hall after the 9 a.m. Mass. These meetings involve a variety of informative programs, day trips, delegating service project responsibilities to ensure productive conclusions and assorted coordination with other parish ministries.

Member Responsibilities

Attend monthly meetings; participate in service projects whenever possible, contribute fresh ideas and encourage other parish women (married, single/divorced) to come find support for our life’s journey. Opportunities for unexpected joy can also come from volunteering to say the Rosary at the Lincolnia Senior Center or serving with the Altar Society or Sunday Social. Finally, since there are no dues or membership fees, consider volunteering time to support our fundraising efforts such as preparing items for our craft sale, bake and jewelry sales, raffles, craft items, or other worthwhile parish activities.

2017-19 Officers

President: Estela Prieto
Vice President: Debbie Fornaciari
Treasurer: Karen Barnoski
Secretary: Priscilla Pilar
Hospitality: Joan Pesata

 

Coordinator: Estela Prieto

Email: estelaprieto45@gmail.com

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

Volunteer for our Craft Sale, Bake Sale, the Altar Society, Pray the Rosary at Lincolnia Center, and participate in other group Ministries.

30 hours...

Attend monthly meetings and day trips, as well as help at our Craft and Bake Sales.

We play sports with high school and college students at the Queen of Apostles Gym. After the sporting activites pizza is provided, followed by prayer and/or a talk on how to live our faith. Open gym night  is the first Friday of every month, 6 – 8 p.m.

Coordinator: Charles Kasenge

Phone: (703) 581-9291

Email: charles.kasenge@gmail.com

Coordinator Since: September 2014

If you can commit 15 hours per year, you will...

There is an opportunity for an adult female to participate to encourage female participation.