INVITATION TO SPIRITUAL DIRECTION When was the last time you treated yourself to a bit of quiet time, just for you? Spiritual direction is companionship for those seeking to deepen their relationship with God. In the midst of a busy life it is often difficult to find the time to notice God’s actions in our daily lives. Yet, at the deepest level, all of us long for a more conscious experience of God’s presence and love. In spiritual direction, you are encouraged to draw closer to God, to spend time paying attention to how God is present in all of life. Your spiritual director is a compassionate listener to your sacred story, a gentle presence and an objective guide on your faith journey. You and your spiritual director/companion will determine the time to meet (usually one hour session). God is waiting for you. Take the time. Melanie Paradis is a Wheaton Franciscan Sister and member of St. John Vianney Parish. She has a Master of Education from Cardinal Stritch University, Milwaukee, WI, and has been involved in education and formation for over 30 years. Melanie holds certification in Spiritual Direction and Retreat Direction through the Franciscan Spirituality Center, La Crosse, WI. She has received a certificate of completion from Capacitar Training in Healing and Transformation. Contact Melanie Paradis, osf Spiritual Director/Companion, 262-797-2513, or mparadis55@yahoo.com. Are you over 18 and not confirmed? Receive the gift of the Holy Spirit The Gifts of the Holy Spirit include wisdom, understanding knowledge, right judgment, courage, reverence and awe and wonder in God‘s presence. Have you got them? They are gifts, bestowed (at least in seed form) in the Sacrament of Confirmation. If you are over and 18 and have not been confirmed, there is still time for this year. Call Mary Janowak, 796-3944, ext. 120, right away and jump into the next session this Tuesday, October 20, at St. Dominic‘s (18255 W. Capitol Dr. in Brookfield). Classes are held usually twice a month from 7-9 PM at rotating parishes among our Quad. Confirmation will take place on May 16 at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist—perhaps by a new Archbishop!