Do I need to be a member of the parish to attend?
No. Usually a few people in an S&T community are from the parish, but most are not.
What is Eucharistic Adoration?
As Catholics we believe that during the consecration at Mass, the bread and wine become the body and blood of Jesus Christ. We also believe that any of the consecrated hosts should be kept in a tabernacle where the presence of Jesus is respected and honored. During Eucharistic adoration, a consecrated host (the Body of Christ) is placed in a monstrance, which is a stand that holds the Blessed Sacrament. Adoration is time spent in prayer, worship and praise of Jesus in this Blessed Sacrament. Read John 6 for a full understanding of why Catholics believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.
How can I become more involved in the Spirit & Truth ministry?
Spirit & Truth Illinois has several committees which work to support the various communities and events which we host throughout the year. These committees are:
- Events: Help plan large events, such as our annual Source & Summit Retreat and Wide Open Worship event, along with other smaller events.
- Invitation: Help with spreading the word and inviting young adults to Spirit & Truth, including outreach to college campuses and Newman Centers.
- Music: Playing, singing, and/or planning worship music for weekly meetings and/or events.
- Communication: Help with internal communication (ie. managing website, email lists, etc).
There is no experience needed and no specific commitment required. Help as much or as little as you can. For more information send us an email at info@spiritandtruthillinois.org
I think Spirit & Truth would be great at my parish. How do I start my own community?
There is a manual for how to start your own Spirit & Truth called “Path of Grace.” It can be downloaded from the National Spirit & Truth website (www.sandt.org). Locally here in the greater Chicagoland area we suggest that you attend a meeting of one of the established Spirit & Truth Communities to experience what a typical night is like. If you would like assistance starting your own community please contact us at info@spiritandtruthillinois.org
To what age group is Spirit & Truth targeted?
Spirit & Truth is focused on young adults in their 20s and 30s both single and married.
What is the format of a typical meeting?
The evening begins with an icebreaker followed by a 20-30 minute talk or reflection on either Sacred Scripture, a Church teaching, or Church tradition. The group then spends about 40-60 minutes in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. This time is filled with both community worship (typically singing a few praise and worship songs or praying the Rosary or Divine Mercy Chaplet) and silent individual prayer. Following Adoration, the group gathers for a time of discussion/sharing and fellowship.