Administrative Ministries
Communications Committee – This Committee focuses on providing effective and efficient communication about parish and school life to the OLPH community. The parish’s website receives over 20,000 visits per year and provides a unique doorway to connect people of all ages with the activities of our parish. For more information, contact the Lisa Sliker in the parish office at 410-747-4334 or by e-mail at lmsliker@gmail.com.
Facilities Committee – The Facilities Committee, including the Grounds and Maintenance sub-committees, provides parishioners an opportunity to assist in the long-term development of the parish campus as well as the regular maintenance of the grounds and buildings. The Facilities Committee has a specific need for parishioners who are skilled in organizing, budgeting and planning for the long-term needs of the parish campus. Parishioners who have experience in inventorying needs, developing and maintaining a capital maintenance plan and providing project management are being sought at this time and are encouraged to contact Todd Arterburn at 443-829-9224 or by e-mail at tarterburn@therainmakergroup.com.
- Planning and Budgeting - Greg Calvett, Chair
- Contracts and Project Management-David Gates, Chair
- Grounds Maintenance - Chuck Steele, Chair. He can be contacted at 410-730-3521 or by email at chucksteele3@verizon.net.
Finance Committee – The Parish Finance Committee, an advisory body required by Canon Law, is made up of at least three members of the parish selected by the Pastor. The members are selected because of their expertise in general business management, banking, insurance and/or law. Their responsibilities include oversight of the parish accounting system and the development of the annual budget which is submitted to the Pastoral Council and then to the Pastor for his review and approval. For more information, contact Brian Connelly at 410-750-0842 or by e-mail at brianconnelly@verizon.net.
Money Counters – This group of parishioners count the weekly offertory collections. An individual serves on a team that counts on a specific Sunday of the month. For more information, contact Jeff Dolan at 410-799-1470 or by e-mail at jeffdol@comcast.net.
Parish Office Assistance – This group of volunteers will provide administrative help to the parish secretary during business hours. For more information, contact Melissa Stevens, Parish Secretary, at 410-747-4334 or by e-mail at Olphparish@archbalt.org.
Pastoral Council - The primary purpose of the Council is to accept responsibility, as a collaborative and consultative body, with the pastor for the life and mission of the Church in the parish. Areas that are addressed are education, evangelization, finance, liturgy, maintenance, pastoral care, outreach planning. For information contact the Pastoral Council Chairperson, Laura Randazzo at 410-788-5711 or by e-mail at fourfunkids@verizon.net.
Adult Faith Programs
Bereavement Ministry – This is a parish support group for those who have lost a loved one. The group gathers to engage in healing, prayer, and reflection, and to work through the grieving process with others on the same journey. For more information call Sister Lorraine McGraw at 410-747-0131 or by e-mail at lmcgraw@archbalt.org.
Bible Study Groups - The Thursday Scripture Series occurs in the Fall and Spring of each year with focus on a particular book of the Bible. Registration is required. If Thursday evening is not convenient for you, there are other Bible Studies facilitated by parish members at different times during the week. Please call Mairzie Mulholland at the Office of Faith Formation at 410-747-0131 or by e-mail at mmulholland@archbalt.org, for more details.
Grasshoppers - This group of senior citizens meets on the first, second and fourth Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. in the Parish Office for conversation, friendship and sharing of common interests. On the third Thursday of each month, the group meets at a local restaurant for lunch. Come join us – you are most welcome! If interested, call Sister Lorraine McGraw at 410-747-4334 or contact her by e-mail at ltmcgraw1@hotmail.com.
Health Ministry - The Health Ministry is largely comprised of parish health care professionals who carry out the mission of the church by promoting wellness through education and service. The group makes this commitment to express its gratitude to the church for the holistic, loving approach taught to us by Jesus Christ. For more information, call Lori Merl at 410-455-9440 or contact her by e-mail at lmerl@comcast.net.
Please Note: As of July 1, 2006, Fr. Edward Szymanski was appointed Health Care Chaplain for Howard County. Fr. Ed will have primary responsibility for all Catholic patients at Howard County General Hospital and those who are in nursing homes or assisted living facilities in the region. Fr. Ed may be reached at 410-461-9111, x297.
John Paul II Hiking Club – The club offers parishioners opportunities for hiking, climbing, camping and kayaking while combining prayer, spiritual talks and faith sharing to aid in our faith journey. The club is open to all parishioners, their families, and friends. A variety of experiences are offered from easy to strenuous both in the local vicinity and throughout Maryland. For more information, contact Greg Douglas at 410-799-1527 or by e-mail at rgdouglas1@comcast.net or Clem Purcell at 443-445-3330 or by e-mail at cpurcell@yahoo.com.
Legion of Mary - The Legion of Mary encourages spiritual growth for members through its weekly meeting and outreach work to those bound in homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, assisted living and correctional institutions. Members also serve as religious instructors for several parish programs. The Legion evangelizes within the parish and aids other parishes upon request. Mary Queen of All Angels Praesidium meets Tuesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. in the OLPH Parish Office. For information, contact Erika Lucas at 410-381-1466 or bcuda66@verizon.net, the parish office at 410-747-4334, or just show up at a meeting.
Men’s Cornerstone Group – This group of men meet on a weekly basis for fellowship with other men who seek to put Jesus at the center of their lives, a difficult task in today’s world. They share their failures and victories, their insights and hopes, in a spirit of mutual support and fellowship. They follow a simple pattern throughout the year, focusing on one of the three legs of the Cursillo movement tripod: holiness, formation and evangelization, essential components of a balanced and fruitful Christian life. They also participate in occasional Cornerstone Retreats in collaboration with other parishes. These weekend retreats provide men with the opportunity to reflect, renew and strengthen their Catholic faith. For more information, please contact Mike O’Connor at 410-796-6771 or by e-mail at Moconnor6771@comcast.net.
Young Adult Ministry – Join a group of young adults (ages 18-35) in social and faith-building gatherings. We meet periodically throughout the year at OLPH, but also share community young adult events with neighboring parishes. For more information, contact Matt Malone at 410-747-0131 or by e-mail at mattc.malone@gmail.com.
Fellowship
Grasshoppers - This group of senior citizens meets on the first, second and fourth Thursday of each month at 11:30 a.m. in the Parish Office for conversation, friendship and sharing of common interests. On the third Thursday of each month, the group meets at a local restaurant for lunch. Come join us – you are most welcome! If interested, call Sister Lorraine McGraw at 410-747-4334 or contact her by e-mail at ltmcgraw1@hotmail.com.
Hospitality Committee – Hospitality Ministers at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish participate in the greater mission of the Church to extend Christ’s charity and hospitality to all who visit our church. Hospitality Ministers participate in bereavement support, social events, the new parishioner program and Mass Ministry. If you would like to participate in any one of these ministries, please contact Laura Randazzo at 410-788-5711 or by e-mail at fourfunkids@verizon.net.
Men's Sunday Evening Basketball
New Parishioner Program – This ministry was formed in order to formally welcome all new parishioners to our parish family. Our goal is to provide new members with the information and personal support that they need to allow them to grow in their relationship with the Lord and find the richness of our Catholic faith alive in the Sacraments. Each new member/family is put in touch with a mentor. The mentor is a seasoned parishioner who can answer any questions or concerns that the new parishioner may have with respect to OLPH and parish life. If you are interested in mentoring to a new parishioner, please contact Barb Smith at 410-799-8511 or by e-mail at smithjbjac@verizon.net.
OLPH Family Dinner Nights - Family Dinner Nights are an opportunity for our parish family to spend time together over a good meal. Parishioners work together in fun and fellowship to prepare a delicious dinner for our parish! We welcome anyone interested in joining in the preparations in the kitchen or serving the night of the dinners. For more information on how you might get involved, call Jennifer Schuberth at 410 925-6804 or email praiseGod8@gmail.com.
OLPH Mom's Group - Moms of young children gather together to share fellowship and fun in this unique stage of life. Activities include playdates with the children, service projects and mom's night out events such as crafting, book discussions or dining out. All are welcome! For more information about the current happenings please contact Jessica Nelson at jamnelson@yahoo.com or 410-747-2206.
OLPH Co-Ed Softball Team
Young Adult Ministry – Join a group of young adults (ages 18-35) in social and faith-building gatherings. We meet periodically throughout the year at OLPH, but also share community young adult events with neighboring parishes. For more information, contact Matt Malone at 410-747-0131 or by e-mail at mattc.malone@gmail.com.
Liturgical Ministries
Altar Guild – This group of parishioners takes care of cleaning the Church, laundering the linens, taking inventory of church supplies and replacing them when necessary, laying out vestments and anything else needed for celebration of the Mass including cruets, chalices, linens, oils, processional crosses, candles and torches and insuring that everything is kept in good condition. If you are interested in this ministry, please contact the parish office at 410-747-4334 or by e-mail at OLPHparish@archbalt.org.
Altar Servers – All girls and boys in the fifth grade and older are invited to serve at the altar in this ministry. Training occurs on an annual basis in the Spring. If interested, call the Parish Office at 410-747-4334.
Decorating Committee – This ministry has the responsibility of decorating OLPH for Christmas and Easter. If interested in participating in this important ministry, contact Barb Smith at 410-799-8511or by e-mail at smithjbjac@verizon.net.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) - This important ministry provides ministers of the Eucharist at the weekend Masses. You must be 16 years of age and have received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation. For more information, contact the Parish Office at 410-747-4334 or by e-mail at OLPHparish@archbalt.org.
Greeters – This group of parishioners welcome those joining in celebration at each Mass. This ministry is very much in need of volunteers. For more information, contact the parish office at 410-747-4334 or by e-mail at OLPHparish@archbalt.org.
Lectors (Ministers of the Word) - A rewarding way to participate in our Sunday worship is to proclaim God’s Word as a lector. If interested in this ministry, please call the Parish Office at 410-747-4334 or send an e-mail to OLPHparish@archbalt.org.
Music Ministry - Music ministers include choir members, cantors, organists and instrumentalists, as well as the children’s choir, the youth ensemble, the traditional choir, the Chant Schola and two contemporary choirs. If you have an interest in being a cantor or participating in the traditional choir, either of the contemporary choirs or the children’s choir, contact our parish music director, Dana La Rosa at 410-747-4334 or by e-mail at dlarosa@archbalt.org. For interest in the Chant Schola, contact Mia Coyne at miacoyne@comcast.net, for interest in the youth choir contact David Punshon-Smith at 410-455-9288 or by e-mail at davidps@comcast.net, or for interest in the 5:00 Sunday Contemporary Ensemble, contact Mark Schmidt at mak.schmidt@gmail.com.
Ushers – This group of parishioners helps to ensure each Mass has a smooth and prayerful flow, while attending to the safety and comfort of the congregation. This ministry is very much in need of volunteers. If interested in participating in this ministry, contact Jim Higgins at 410-461-8133 or by e-mail at jrhjreagle@aol.com.
Outreach Ministries and Programs
Haiti Ministry - OLPH is very fortunate to have a parish partnership with Our Lady of the Nativity in Verrettes, Haiti. Thanks to our generous parishioners, we have been able to sponsor a feeding program for the 230 children who attend the school at our partner parish. In addition to financial support, our main goal is to build a spiritual relationship with our brothers and sisters in Verrettes. We hope to expand this ministry to include regular mission trips to visit our partner parish to strengthen our ties and embrace the solidarity of the Universal Church. For additional information, contact Rachel Barron at rbarron17@gmail.com.
Our Daily Bread - OLPH is committed to providing food for Our Daily Bread soup kitchen on the first Monday of each month. Parish members bake casseroles and desserts, drop them off in Harrison Hall, and deliver them downtown on the Sunday prior to the first Monday of the month. For more information about this program, call Ed Parvis at 410-379-2902.
Respect Life – The Respect Life Committee at OLPH was formed to help educate the public on the Church’s commitment to protecting the sanctity of human life at all its stages and how we, as a community, can fight to preserve the right to life for all human beings. The Respect Life Committee works with the Gabriel Network and The Howard County Pregnancy Center to provide support to women in crisis pregnancies, has organized bus trips to participate in The March for Life in D.C. and in Annapolis, has participated in the 40 Days for Life campaign and has been involved with FOCA (the Freedom of Choice Act). They are also working with other local catholic churches to better serve the unborn and the elderly. If you are interested in being a part of this important ministry, please contact Sue Smith at 410-750-7577 or by e-mail at suziloveshim@verizon.net.
Gabriel Network - The Gabriel Network (formerly the Gabriel Project) is a rapidly expanding network of Christian churches advertising and offering immediate and practical help to mothers facing crisis pregnancies. Linked with pregnancy centers through a state-wide crisis hotline, more than 200 volunteers provide hands-on assistance rooted in love with both mother and child. For more information, contact Sue Smith at 410-750-7577 or by e-mail at suziloveshim@verizon.net.
St. Vincent de Paul Society - St. Vincent de Paul is an International Society engaged in helping the poor, both spiritually and physically. This group participates in many projects designed to assist and lift up our fellow man. If you would like to join us or would like more information, contact Ed Parvis at 410-379-2902 or by e-mail at emparvis1@verizon.net.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in Ellicott City, Maryland, is a Catholic Elementary School of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, and presents a Catholic Christian value-based curriculum, in accordance with Baltimore Archdiocesan guidelines. We are accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and are an integral component of the educational mission of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish. OLPH School promotes a positive learning environment with an emphasis on mastery of basic skills to assure competence in the fundamentals of each academic discipline. Our goal is to prepare our students to become active members of the global community in which they live. For more information, contact our principal, Victor Pellechia, at 410-747-4334 or by e-mail at vpellechia@olphschool.org.
Parish Organizations
Catholic Daughters of the Americas – This organization of women in the parish meets on the second Monday of each month from 7:00-9:00 p.m. in the Parish Office living room. The group is active in many charitable projects. All women 18 years and over are invited. For more information, contact Marta Minadeo at 410-730-2670 or by e-mail at minadeo@verizon.net.
Catholic War Veterans - The Charles Carroll Post #1961 was chartered within the Maryland Department of the Catholic War Veterans of the USA, Inc in 2011. We were established to service catholic veterans of Resurrection, St. Paul and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Churches. Our meetings are currently held on the fourth Tuesday of the month in the OLPH Parish Center (Triple Rooms, 2nd Floor) at 7:00 pm. The Post already has a very effective “Cell Phones for Soldiers” collection project. Veteran's Day is a special day of prayer and reflection within our parish churches. We are always open to new ideas on how best to serve the Veterans and Military in our parishes. The Post recently participated in the CWV National Patriotic Poster Contest. Last fall we participated in the Veteran's Day Mass at St. Paul's in Ellicott City. Our next major event will be to sponsor a special Memorial Day Mass and Brunch in May. This is your personal invitation to attend our meetings or any of our events. We work closely with our parish priests to ensure Catholic traditions are followed to the letter. A priest is assigned to every post and acts as its chaplain. Join the other veterans in Maryland and let's work to see that no Catholic veteran goes unaided. http://CWV1961.org, CWV1961@gmail.com.
Hospitality Committee – Hospitality Ministers at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish participate in the greater mission of the Church to extend Christ’s charity and hospitality to all who visit our church. Hospitality Ministers participate in bereavement support, social events, the new parishioner program and Mass Ministry. If you would like to participate in any one of these ministries, please contact Laura Randazzo at 410-788-5711 or by e-mail at fourfunkids@verizon.net.
John Paul II Hiking Club – The club offers parishioners opportunities for hiking, climbing, camping and kayaking while combining prayer, spiritual talks and faith sharing to aid in our faith journey. The club is open to all parishioners, their families, and friends. A variety of experiences are offered from easy to strenuous both in the local vicinity and throughout Maryland. For more information, contact Greg Douglas at 410-799-1527 or by e-mail at rgdouglas1@comcast.net or Clem Purcell at 443-445-3330 or by e-mail at cpurcell@yahoo.com.
Knights of Columbus - The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic Family, Fraternal and Service Organization open to practicing Catholic gentlemen who are 18 years of age and older. The Knights of Father Joseph J. Comyns Council/9638 extend a warm invitation to all men of the parish to come join us in our work. Get involved and make a difference in your Church, your community, and your family. The first and foremost principle of our order is Charity, and we believe Charity begins at home. Please ask any Knight of the parish for more information, or call Jim Higgins at 410-461-8133 or by e-mail at jrhjreagle@aol.com.
Legion of Mary - The Legion of Mary encourages spiritual growth for members through its weekly meeting and outreach work to those bound in homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, assisted living and correctional institutions. Members also serve as religious instructors for several parish programs. The Legion evangelizes within the parish and aids other parishes upon request. Mary Queen of All Angels Praesidium meets Tuesday evenings at 7:00 p.m. in the OLPH Parish Office. For information, contact Erika Lucas at 410-381-1466 or bcuda66@verizon.net, the parish office at 410-747-4334, or just show up at a meeting.
Men's Sunday Evening Basketball
OLPH Mom's Group - Moms of young children gather together to share fellowship and fun in this unique stage of life. Activities include playdates with the children, service projects and mom's night out events such as crafting, book discussions or dining out. All are welcome! For more information about the current happenings please contact Jessica Nelson at jamnelson@yahoo.com or 410-747-2206.
Prayer and Worship
Please click here for our Sunday Mass Schedule
Eucharistic Adoration – At Mass the bread and wine truly become the Body and Blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. We eat His Body and Blood at Mass but we also honor His presence in prayer and adoration. This form of prayer, called Eucharistic Adoration, takes place every Friday morning after Mass and continues until Saturday morning Mass. Come and spend some time in the presence of the Lord – it is a great time of peace, healing and spiritual refreshment. If interested in volunteering one hour of your time per week, please call Ona Corkrin at 410-719-1971 or contact her by e-mail at blessedbetherock@verizon.net.
Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Pilgrim Virgin Statue Program – Presently, four statues of Our Lady of Fatima are circulated weekly to participating families. These visits encourage family recitation of the rosary. Instructions and informational videos accompany the statues, which are known to bring countless blessings to each home. For more information, call Mary Jo Giulioni at 410-461-9936.
Evening of Adoration, Praise and Worship
Rosary (daily before the 8:15am Mass)
Stations of the Cross
Upper Room Charismatic Prayer Group
Educational Ministries and Programs
Our Office of Faith Formation encompasses all phases and aspects of catechesis in our faith community. Faith formation is a life-long process, from cradle to grave. Our task is to form, inform, and transform so that our lives model that of Christ. Additional information about any of our Faith Formation ministries and programs can be obtained from the office located in the Parish Office or by calling 410-747-0131.
Below you can find information on the following programs:
- Toddlers/Pre-K
- Elementary
- Middle School
- High School
- Home-Schooling
- Sacramental Preparation for Baptism, First Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation
Toddlers/Pre-K
Children’s Nursery – Do you have toddlers who love to explore? Come check out our awesome nursery, located in the Kindergarten Room of the School. The nursery is open during the 9:00 and 11:00 am Masses on most Sundays during the school year. The nursery follows the same schedule as the Pre-K Program. Children are nurtured and entertained by our high school students, who are STAND certified. Judy Gruel, Director of Religious Education, supervises the operation of the nursery. Take advantage of this opportunity to relax and pray during Mass. The nursery is free and available on a drop-in basis.
Pre-K and Sunday Kindergarten Religious Education Program – This program is held during the 9:00 and 11:00 am Masses, except on holiday weekends and the second Sunday of each month, when a Children’s Liturgy is planned. Children ages 3, 4 and 5 have fun learning about God and developing their own spirituality at their cognitive levels. Class size is limited to 10 children with 2 adults. Registration forms are available in the narthex of the Church or at the Parish Office. We also welcome parents, seniors, and teens to volunteer with us. For more information, contact Judy Gruel at 410-747-0131 or by e-mail at jgruel@archbalt.org.
Elementary School
Elementary Religious Education - Kindergarten to 5th grade students who attend Howard County Public Schools or other non-Catholic, private schools, are strongly encouraged to participate in our Elementary Religious Formation program during the week. Classes are held on Mondays from 5:00 to 6:00 pm and from 6:30 to 7:30 pm and on Tuesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 pm. Classes are limited to 15 students, whenever possible. Volunteer teachers, aides and teen helpers are needed to operate this program. Experience is not needed and training is provided. The only necessary qualification is a love of the Catholic faith and a genuine love of children. A nursery is provided for young children of those parents who wish to teach during the Monday 5:00 – 6:00 pm session. For further information, contact Judy Gruel at 410-747-0131 or by e-mail at jgruel@archbalt.org.
Home Connection Program – this program is for those families whose schedule or life situation does not permit attendance at any of the above classes. Enjoy quiet time with your child/children discussing the Word of God and important life applications of our faith, in the comfort of your home. This program is open to all families with children in grades K-8. Call the Office of Faith Formation at 410-747-0131 or e-mail Judy Gruel at jgruel@archbalt.org for more details or pick up a brochure in the vestibule of the church.
Middle School and High School Youth Ministry
OLPH has a comprehensive ministry to, with, by, and for youth in sixth through twelfth grades. Youth Ministry includes catechetical programs such as Middle School IMPACT, High School Enrichment, and High School Faith Sharing. Community-building events, service opportunities, and worship experiences are held throughout the year. If you are interested in the Middle School IMPACT program or in the Confirmation program, contact Kristin Fisher at kfisher_olph@yahoo.com. If you are interested in either the High School or Young Adult Ministry, contact Matt Malone at Mattc.malone@gmail.com. Both Kristen and Matt can be reached at the Office of Faith Formation at 410-747-0131.
Middle School IMPACT - The Middle School IMPACT program is designed for public school, home school and private school students in sixth through eighth grades. IMPACT is a holistic faith formation program which combines scriptural and doctrinal religious education, prayer experiences, service, and community building activities.
High School Religious Education – This is a collection of faith formation programs for all youth ninth through twelfth grades, consisting of various mini-series, hot topic nights, and retreats during the school year.
High School Youth Group – this social activity is open to all high school students from public and private schools. Join us to play crazy games, meet new friends, share fun snacks, and explore ways to open your life to God! A different theme is planned for each meeting and is presented by youth and for youth. All are welcome, including friends from other parishes.
High School Prayer Group
Home-Schooling
MARCH (Maryland Roman Catholic Homeschoolers) - OLPH Chapter - A support group for Catholic home schooling families. The group provides opportunities for children to participate in monthly Masses, field trips, sports, Writing Club, service projects, Book Club, Field Day, and park days. For information or to answer your questions about home schooling, contact Holly Novotny at 443-636-5454 or by e-mail at hmbnovotny@hotmail.com.
Sacramental Preparation
Baptism - Please call or email Judy Gruel in the Office of Faith Formation (410-747-0131 or jgruel@archbalt.org) to begin preparing for your child's Baptism. For more information on the Sacrament of Baptism please click here.
First Reconcilation
Frist Communion
Confirmation
Youth Activities and Sports
Scouting Programs
- Boy Scouts – Ed Marshall, 410-599-6864
- Cub Scouts – Mike Harrison, 410-579-8374
- Girl Scouts – Brenda Katulski, 301-466-7675, Brenda.Katulski@ars.usda.gov
Angel’s Sports -A fall/winter basketball program for parish children in grades 2 through 8. For more information, contact Conrad Katulski at 301-785-4436 or by e-mail at conkat@verizon.net.
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