est exas Pope W T Benedict released his first encyclical in January. PERMIT NO. 44 SAN ANGELO, TX NONPROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID US POSTAGE Read more about it, ANGELUS Pgs. 8-9 Serving the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas Volume XXVII, No. 2 FEBRUARY 2006 Conference: acceptance, sharing vital By Jimmy Patterson The Diocese used the con- ference to not only encourage PO BOX 1829 BOX PO Angelus Editor 21st Century Catholicism: Faith people to witness and live

their Catholicism but to also

DIOCESE OF SAN ANGELO SAN OF DIOCESE ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED SERVICE ADDRESS SAN ANGELO ANGELO TX SAN 76902-1829 SAN ANGELO. The very sur- sharing taken to a whole new level vival of the way we all think, be not just tolerant but accept- feel and practice our chosen ing of those who practice in In his bestselling novel The Life of Pi, author religion -- regardless the reli- different ways. It was an eye- Yann Martel tells the story of a boy trapped on a gion -- is dependent on our opening, refreshing and to lifeboat with a 400-pound bengal tiger. But claiming, cherishing and nur- many a surprising message. before the life-and-death sea quest begins, the turing our faith, according to S. Rickard’s message book focuses on Sister Terry Rickard, O.P., a focused on why we should Pi’s religion: he ! From the Editor Dominican Sister, assistant choose to grow our regularly attends a Catholicism and cited eight Catholic Church, a Muslim mosque and a Hindu director of RENEW temple. International and keynote dimensions of the faith that work to help us nurture our “Religion, Pi says, “is about our dignity, not our speaker at the Diocesan depravity.” Jimmy Patterson Conference Day, Feb. 4, at the is editor of San Angelo Convention Center. See CONFERENCE/14 See PATTERSON/14 The Angelus Lent With Ash Wednesday, March 1, 2006, we begin the Lenten season, Glorious sendoff which prepares us to celebrate the greatest feast of Christianity, the Boy Scouts with Troop 152 in Midland proper- Resurrection of Jesus Christ on ly retire a U.S. flag, rught, after its final pledge (below) last Sunday during a retirement cere- Easter Sunday. The time of Lent is to mony. Thirty-seven Boy Scouts and Girl be observed by Catholics as a spe- Scouts will be honored February 11 as they cial season of prayer, penance and receive their religious emblems at a 5:30 p.m. doing works of charity. I share with Mass at Holy Angels Church in San Angelo. you here the pastoral guidelines that hopefully will assist us during the Story, Honorees/Pg. 7 season of Lent. Story/Pg. 3 ‘Eagle’s Wings top song “On Eagle’s Wings,” the musical reworking of the 91st Psalm by Father Michael Joncas, topped all other songs in an online poll asking which liturgical song most fostered and nourished the respondent’s life. Two songs made popular by the St. Louis Jesuits — “Here I Am, Lord” and “Be Not Afraid” — came in second and third, followed by “You Are Mine,” by David Haas. The Back Page/16 Pfeifer: Newspaper’s omission of facts in story harmful ALSO INSIDE ... ! January 22 lead story in feel the article would have presented a Estrada's accuser provided sworn state- Diocesan Briefs ...... 2 Standard-Times omitted key facts more balanced overview of the status of ments that were perjurious. Specifically, Catholic Press Month...... 2 in clergy sex abuse story. the civil cases involving former priests in the accuser stated that he had not retained African American History Month ...... 3 the Diocese,” Bishop of the Diocese of legal counsel to represent him in a Saint of the Month ...... 4 The Angelus San Angelo, Michael Pfeifer said. planned civil suit. Entered into evidence, Diocesan Dates ...... 5 Omitted from the article was a critical however, was a letter that showed that the Year of Reconciliation ...... 6 piece of information that the reporter had plaintiff had indeed retained an attorney Benedict’s First Encyclical ...... 8-9 SAN ANGELO. On January 22, 2006, the San Angelo Standard-Times published an full knowledge of and was included in tes- for a civil trial yet that same attorney was Fr. Webster ...... 10 timony during Fr. Domingo Estrada's abruptly dropped just one week prior to The Human Side ...... 10 article, "Sex cases pending." Family ...... 12 “I believe it is important that Standard- criminal case -- during which he was the beginning of Fr. Estrada's criminal Just for Kids...... 13 Times readers be presented with additional acquitted of all charges. That piece of trial. Coming of Age ...... 13 facts that were omitted from the story. information, which was included in a In omitting this vital piece of informa- The Back Page ...... 16 Had this information been included, we December 2004 Midland Reporter- Please see STORY/15 Telegram article, stated clearly that Fr. Page 2 FEBRUARY 2006 The Angelus The West Texas Angelus It’s Catholic Press Month ... time to thank you Official Newspaper of the By Jimmy Patterson scratched the surface. Diocese of San Angelo, Texas Angelus Editor I am honored to serve in this capacity, POSTMASTER: Send all address bringing you news and comment from changes to: A wise man told me once that every Bishop Pfeifer, from across the country WEST TEXAS ANGELUS year for Father’s Day, he would give his and around the world. P.O. Box 1829 wife and his children thank you notes, I try to be fresh and new every month, SAN ANGELO, TX 76902-1829 paying tribute to them for making his life not always easy. Catholic Press Association logo for ______a richer experience. If a person ever hopes to continue to February is Catholic Press Month. Catholic Press Month. improve, he or she cannot fail to stop try- Thank you for helping make The Angelus job easier, so thank you. ing to be better. And so neither will I. In Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI celebration of Catholic Press Month, I’d Publisher the newspaper it is. We’ve increased the type size in the I’ve heard from plenty of you. You’ve paper making it easier for you to read. ask you to continue with your letters, been kind and straightforward with me. I emails and phone calls and your sugges- Jimmy Patterson We’ve included feature stories about the think you overwhelmingly like what you tions and criticism. Director of Communications Catholics in the Diocese that are doing see in The Angelus and that makes my good things ... and we have barely [email protected]. Editor

Religious Connection Kenneth Grimm OBITUARY San Angelo Standard Times For the 68 percent of U.S. teens who Production Manager say religion is important to them:

92% want a better connection Betty Jo Patterson, Member with their religion Catholic News Service mother of Angelus Catholic Press Association 52% are looking for editor Jimmy Patterson Texas Catholic News less conventional ways to connect with their religion Published the first Monday following Betty Jo Patterson, beloved wife, cher- 43% are not sure how to ished mother, and adored grandmother the first Saturday of each month and connect and great-grand- delivered to all registered parishioners mother, died January in the Diocese of San Angelo. 40% say it’s diffi cult 13 at an Irving hos- to connect with their religion pital following a Source: BBYO Subscription rate for all others: ©2006 CNS lengthy illness. She $10 per year was 79. Betty was born DIOCESAN BRIEFS December 31, 1926, THIRD CLASS POSTAGE PAID AT in Tulsa, Okla., the SAN ANGELO, TEXAS Fatima Statue Visitation www.pilgrimvirginstatue.com, For questions or first of three children The world famous International Pilgrim information, contact the St. Maximilan Kolbe born to Marshall and Fraternity through Dennis Robson, SFO at 432- Printed by the Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima, which Alice Worthington, 978-6570, email [email protected] or contact both who preceded her in death. San Angelo Standard Times has been traveling the World since 1947, is being brought to the Diocese of San Angelo the individual parishes. Schedule subject to Betty married Harold L. Patterson A Scripps-Howard Company by the members of St. Maximilian Kolbe change. Please call individual churches to verify January 3, 1947. The couple celebrated Fraternity of the Secular Franciscan Order statue’s appearance. their 59th anniversary January. 3. Betty Submissions: (SFO) between February 1-21, 2006. and Harold were inseparable through the Story suggestions, calendar items, years, together raising three children, Encuentro Matrimonial Jimmy and his wife, Karen, of Midland; parish briefs and all other Revised Schedule The Statue and her custodian will be at parishes in David, and his wife Dell Anne, of Irving, submissions should be emailed to the Diocese of San Angelo on the following dates Señor Bendice Nuestro Hogar and Claudia Cox and her husband James, [email protected]. and times: Febrero 10, 11 y 12 del 2006 also of Irving. Harold and all three of their COPY, PHOTO DEADLINE: 8 -- St. Joseph, Stanton (tentative), 5:30-6 p.m. Lugar: Quality Inn, 3001 E. Business 20 children survive Betty. She is also sur- Odessa, TX 79762 Third Friday of every month. 9 -- Sacred Heart, Big Spring, 5:30-6 p.m. vived by eight grandchildren and 14 great- 10 -- St. Lawrence, Garden City, 5 p.m.- Costo: $175.00 grandchildren. overnight; Mass 8:30 a.m., Feb. 11 Deposito: $50.00 Betty made the best chocolate pie in the Photos should be sent in jpeg format. 11 -- St. Margaret of Scotland, San Angelo, 5 Favor de llamar: world and crocheted the most beautiful p.m. Pilar y Romelia Ornelas @ (432)362-4610 afghans ever made. She loved Christmas, Letters to the editor are welcome, and 12 -- Mt. Carmel Hermitage, Christoval, 8:30 Eduardo y Sorina Dominguez @ (432) 368-0134 when every year 35-40 family and extend- Conrado e Irma Franco @ (432) 385-0250 should be emailed to a.m. ed family members would crowd into . “Nana and Pawpaw’s House” for dinner, a [email protected]. 12 -- Our Lady of Grace Carmelite Monastery, Christoval, 1:30-2 p.m. reading of the Christmas story and a gift Letters to the editor are printed at the 13 -- St. Margaret of Cortona, Big Lake, 5:30-6 Wall: Ecumenical Prayer Seminar exchange. Her example of Christian living, discretion of the editor and identities of p.m. unending devotion to Harold and tireless the writer are subject to 14 -- Sacred Heart, McCamey, 5:30-6 p.m. St. Ambrose Catholic Church in Wall is co-spon- commitment to the many family and verification. Please include name, 15 -- St. Agnes, Ft. Stockton, 5:30-6 p.m. soring an ecumenical seminar on prayer with the friends she leaves behind are inspirations to all who were fortunate to have known address and phone number when sub- 16 -- St. Mary’s Odessa, 5:30-6 p.m. Brethren Church in Wall on March 3-4. 17 -- Immaculate Heart of Mary, Sweetwater, Registration begins Friday, Mar. 3, at 6 p.m. with her, and Betty’s family and friends will mitting letters. 5:30-6 p.m. sessions from 6:30-8:45 p.m. and resuming cherish her memory forever. 18 -- Our Lady of San Juan, Midland, 4 p.m. (all Saturday from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. A light lunch will be Betty is also survived by her sister, night vigil. Feb. 19 -- Masses at 8:30, 10 a.m., served Saturday. The speaker is Pam Vicalvi. Beverly Roberts, of Tulsa, Okla. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Noon. The seminar is free and all are invited to attend. 20 -- 5 p.m., overnight vigil (tentative) may move Marshall “Bud” Worthington. to Feb. 19; check with church.) Pallbearers were Jon Patterson, Jason Patterson, Daniel Patterson, Chris Clark, For more information regarding the International (See Diocesan Dates/Pg. 5) James Patterson and David Smith. Pilgrim Statue of our Lady of Fatima visit The Angelus FEBRUARY 2006 Page 3 With Ash Wednesday March 1, some guidelines for the Lenten season By Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI Catholics from age 18 through 59. Bishop of San Angelo Abstinence refers to the eating Liturgical Directions for Holy Week of meat of warm blooded animals With Ash Wednesday, March 1, (e.g., beef, lamb, chicken, pork). PALM SUNDAY · It is strongly recommended that the Blessing of the Palms with proces- 2006, we begin the Lenten season, Under the present law, it does not sion be celebrated at least once at the principal Sunday liturgy. which prepares us to celebrate the include egg or milk products, greatest feast of Christianity, the meat broth or gravies. The rule of HOLY THURSDAY Resurrection of Jesus Christ on abstinence binds all Catholics 14 · The Mass of the Lord's Supper must be celebrated in the evening with procession to the altar of repose. Easter Sunday. years of age or older. On days of · Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament continues until midnight. The time of Lent is to be abstinence, those who are eating · For pastoral reasons, one other Mass may be celebrated during the observed by Catholics as a special in a school cafeteria may eat meat day. season of prayer, penance and if it is served to them and there is GOOD FRIDAY doing works of charity. I share no other main dish to choose. · The Liturgy of the Lord's Passion should be celebrated around 3:00 with you here the pastoral guide- The substantial observance of p.m. For pastoral reasons, this celebration may be moved to a later lines that hopefully will assist us the laws of fast and abstinence is time. during the season of Lent. a serious obligation. Those · Other paraliturgical celebrations are suggested and recommended at Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, whose work or health impairment the discretion of the pastor (Viacrucis, 7 Palabras, Pesame a maria, etc.) in particular, are the most important per day. Two small meals, "suffi- make the observance difficult HOLY SATURDAY penitential days of the liturgical cient to maintain strength," are would be excused from fasting · The entire celebration of the Easter Vigil takes place at night. It should year. They are days of both fast allowed but together they should and abstaining. The individual not begin before nightfall; it should end before daybreak on Sunday. and abstinence. All Fridays in Lent not equal another full meal. conscience can decide if there is · According to the rubrics for the Easter Vigil, no Eucharist may be cele- brated prior to the Easter Vigil. If a pastor feels that pastoral reasons an are days of abstinence. Eating between meals breaks the a proper cause to excuse. For additional Mass is needed AFTER the vigil, he may consult the Bishop The rule of fasting states that fast but drinking liquids does not. for permission. only one full meal may be taken The rule of fasting obliges all See LENT/14

African American From Bishop Pfeifer’s Desk History Month, God’s mercy, forgiveness received in a time for thanks sacraments of reconciliation, penance ‘Be reconciled to God’ ONLY GOD FORGIVES SIN them. A remarkable sign of this is By Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI -- 2 Cor. 5:20 1441 -- Only God forgives sins. the fact that Jesus receives sinners Since he is the Son of God, Jesus at his table, a gesture that express- African-American History Month, celebrated throughout By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI says of himself, “The Son of man es in an astonishing way both the month of February, focuses on the rich contribution has authority on earth to forgive God’s forgiveness and the return African-Americans have made to the development and cul- During this YEAR OF RECON- sins” and exercises this divine to the bosom of the People of ture of our country. This month is set aside to honor our CILIATION, I am sharing with power: “Your sins are forgiven.” God. African-American ancestors and their accomplishments. the people of our Diocese the Further, by virtue of his divine 1444 -- In imparting to his apos- We pause during this month to recognize their greatness, teaching of the authority he gives this power to tles his own power to forgive sins their significant contribution to our culture and to build new Catholic Church on men to exercise in his name. the Lord also gives them the bridges of understanding, appreciation and respect. During the great Sacrament 1442 -- Christ has willed that in authority to reconcile sinners with African-American History Month, people with roots on the of Penance and her prayer and life and action his the Church. This ecclesial dimen- African continent find a new sense of pride in their history Reconciliation as whole Church should be the sign sion of their task is expressed and culture. given to us in the and instrument of the forgiveness most notably in Christ’s solemn In 1926, Carter Godwin Woodson, a Harvard Ph.D., the Catechism of the and reconciliation that he acquired words to Simon Peter: “I will give founder of the Association for the study of Negro Life and Catholic Church. I for us at the price of his blood. you the keys of the kingdom of History, initiated Negro History Week, the forerunner of present for further Pfeifer But he entrusted the exercise of heaven, and whatever you bind on African-American History Month. Fifty years later, the study and reflection the following the power of absolution to the earth shall be bound in heaven, entire month of February was dedicated to the celebration of teaching of the Church on the apostolic ministry which he and whatever you loose on earth African-American art, history, music, literature and culture. Sacrament of Penance and charged with the “ministry of rec- shall be loosed in heaven.” “The A people without a history is a people without an under- Reconciliation from the Catholic onciliation.” The apostle is sent office of binding and loosing standing of who they are. The possession of one’s own his- Catechism: out “on behalf of Christ” with which was given to Peter was also tory is the first step in an appreciation of one’s own culture. 1440 -- Sin is before all else an “God making his appeal” through assigned to the college of apostles The history of African-American people in America is a offense against God, a rupture of him and pleading: “Be reconciled united to its head.” poignant one. African-Americans must never forget their communion with him. At the same to God.” 1445 -- The words bind and loose roots nor fail to cherish the memory of their forebears, men time it damages communion with RECONCILIATION mean: whomever you exclude and women who suffered indignities beyond comprehension the Church. For this reason con- WITH THE CHURCH from your communion, will be to people with white skin. version entails both God’s for- 1443 -- During his public life excluded from communion with Remarkably, they survived with dignity intact, and when the giveness and reconciliation with Jesus not only forgave sins, but God; whomever you receive anew time came, with a courageous resolve led by prophetic civil the Church, which are expressed also made plain the effect of this into your communion, God will rights leaders, like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., they brought and accomplished liturgically by forgiveness; he reintegrated for- welcome back into his. about social and legal changes that were long overdue. the sacrament of Penance and given sinners into the community Reconciliation with the Church is (See CULTURE/15) Reconciliation. of the People of God from which inseparable from reconciliation sin had alienated or even excluded with God. Page 4 FEBRUARY 2006 The Angelus

El escritorio del obispo La Misericordia y Perdón de Dios son dados por el Sacramento ‘Pónganse en Paz con Dios’ SOLO DIOS los había alejado o incluso excluido. Un signo mani- -- 2 Cor 5:20 PERDONA EL PECADO fiesto de ello es el hecho de que Jesús admite a los 1441-- Solo Dios perdona los pecados. Porque Jesús es pecadores a su mesa, más aún, El mismo se sienta a su por Obispo Miguel Pfeifer, OMI el Hijo de Dios, dice de sí mismo: “El Hijo del hombre mesa, gesto que expresa de manera conmovedora, a la tiene poder de perdonar los pecados en la tierra” y ejerce vez, el perdón de Dios y el retorno al Durante este AÑO DE RECON- ese poder divino: “Tus pecados están perdonados. Más seno del pueblo de Dios. CILIACION, estoy compartiendo con aún, en virtud de su autoridad divina, Jesús confiere este 1444 -- Al hacer partícipes a los apóstoles de su propio la gente de la Diócesis la enseñanza poder a los hombres para que lo ejerzan en su nombre. poder de perdonar los pecados, el Señor les da también la de la Iglesia Católica sobre el gran 1442 -- Cristo quiso que toda su Iglesia, tanto en su autoridad de reconciliar a los pecadores con la Iglesia. Sacramento de Penitencia y oración como en su vida y su obra, fuera el signo y el Esta dimensión eclesial de su tarea se expresa particular- Reconciliación dada a nosotros en la instrumento del perdón y de la reconciliación que nos mente en las palabras solemnes de Cristo a Simón Pedro: Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica. adquirió al precio de su sangre. Sin embargo, confió el “A ti te daré las llaves del Reino de los cielos; y lo que Les presento para estudio y reflexión ejercicio del poder de absolución al ministerio apostóli- ates en la tierra quedara atado en los cielos, y lo que las siguientes enseñanzas de la Iglesia co, que esta encargado del “ministerio de la reconcil- desates en la tierra quedara desatado en los cielos”. “Está sobre el Sacramento de Penitencia y iación”. El apóstol es enviado “en nombre de Cristo”, y claro que también el Colegio de los Apóstoles, unido a su Pfeifer Reconciliación del Catecismo “es Dios mismo” quien, a través de el, exhorta y suplica: Cabeza, recibió la función de atar y desatar dada a Pedro”. Católico: “Dejaos reconciliar con Dios”. 1445 -- Las palabras atar y desatar significan: aquel a 1440 -- El pecado es, ante todo, ofensa a Dios, ruptura RECONCILIACION quien excluyáis de vuestra comunión, será excluido de la de la comunión con El. Al mismo tiempo, atenta contra CON LA IGLESIA comunión con Dios; aquel a quien recibáis de nuevo en la comunión con la Iglesia. Por eso la conversión impli- 1443 -- Durante su vida publica, Jesús no sólo perdonó vuestra comunión, Dios lo acogerá también en la suya. ca a la vez el perdón de Dios y la reconciliación con la los pecados, también manifestó el efecto de este perdón: La reconciliación con la Iglesia es inseparable de la rec- Iglesia, que es lo que expresa y realiza litúrgicamente el a los pecadores que son perdonados los vuelve a integrar onciliación con Dios. sacramento de la penitencia y de la Reconciliación. en la comunidad del pueblo de Dios, de donde el pecado Make sure you are always attired in wedding garment of grace

By Fr. Anthony Sloan, OCSO how is it that you are here not properly dressed?" are always properly attired in the wedding garment of This poor man's ultimate fate was not good, because sanctifying grace. Chaplain, Carmelite Sisters although he had been invited into the wedding banquet, he What a very wonderful and comforting truth of our still lacked the proper wedding garment. Many Fathers of Catholic faith! Comforting, because even if we have When I was invited by Bishop Michael Pfeifer, O.M.I., the Church identify this 'wedding garment' with virtue and repeatedly 'fallen. short', the Church assures us in the to contribute an article on the Sacrament of Reconciliation, grace dwelling in our soul; notably, sanctifying grace. And Catechism that "all who die in God's grace and friendship, for the Diocesan year of Reconciliation, with plenty of for me, the inspired thought was clear: this could not have but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their advance notice, I decided that I would not begin writing happened to this man (or, potentially to anyone of us!) if eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, until, hopefully, I received some kind of inspiration. Weeks he had received the Sacrament of Reconciliation before so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of later, when I was reading the Sunday Gospel on the para- coming into our Lord's presence. In other words, the heaven." (CCC #1030). ble of the Wedding Feast, the inspiration came - especially Sacrament of Reconciliation is an ever ready, and the ordi- when our Lord asked one of the invited guests: "my friend, nary means available to each of us, to make sure that we See WEDDING/10 Mrs. King, 78, always true to civil rights, justice ATLANTA (CNS) — Coretta ter,” Father Adamski said. Miguel Febres Cordero Munoz Scott King, who died Jan. 31 at King’s impact on Catholics is 1854-1910 age 78, will be remembered for equivalent to her impact on the her fidelity to civil rights and world, the priest added. “The feast – February 9 nonviolent justice that had been strength and determination of her Born with crippled legs to a sought by her husband, the Rev. commitment to continue as best she prominent Ecuadoran family, Martin Luther King Jr. could her husband’s work is an She died at 1 a.m. at a holistic example of virtue for all of us,” he Francisco was schooled at health center in Baja California, said. home until age 9, when he Mexico. Funeral arrangements Coretta Scott King Speaking to the Catholic Press began attending a new school were not yet announced. worthier spouse and colleague in Association in Atlanta in 1969, run by the Institute of the “The entire nation stands in one year after her husband was the struggle for social change Brothers of the Christian awe of the wondrous legacy of and civil rights,” Archbishop assassinated, King said the con- this great woman of faith,” said Gregory added. cept of churches offering finan- Schools. Though his family Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory Father John Adamski, the pastor cial reparation to African- initially opposed it, 14-year- of Atlanta in a Jan. 31 statement. of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Americans was “too little to “We in the Archdiocese of demand of churches.” old Francisco joined the Atlanta’s first African-American Institute in 1868, becoming Brother Miguel. He taught Atlanta are especially grieved at parish which is located adjacent to “Their help,” she said, “can be her death. the King Center in Atlanta, called more effective if the enormous Spanish and religion in Quito for 38 years, wrote a “She was a noble resident of King’s death the “transition of an influence of the 80 million mem- number of well-regarded textbooks and was elected our city and a proud bearer of bers were mobilized behind era.” to several national academies. He died in Europe, and the heritage of freedom and jus- “For all these years, she repre- demands upon Congress.” tice that her husband epitomized sented Dr. King’s work and all King added, “If programs was declared Ecuador’s fi rst saint in 1984. and that she fulfilled with he meant to our country. I really which would end poverty and incredible determination. Dr. see this as the closing of a chap- See KING/15 SSaintsaints forfor Toodayday © 20052006 CNS King could not have found a The Angelus FEBRUARY 2006 Page 5

DIOCESAN DATES Bishop’s Calendar Mary’s, San Angelo. FEBRUARY MARCH 10 -- SAN ANGELO: Forty Hours Devotion 1 -- Collection for Aid to Church in Central and Begins with Mass at 8:30 a.m., Sacred Heart Eastern Europe. Cathedral. 1 -- Operation Rice Bowl (thru April 16) 11 -- SAN ANGELO: Holy Angels –- Scouts 2-5 -- St. Ann’s Midland ACTS Women’s Retreat Award Mass, 5:30 p.m. at CKRC, San Angelo. 12 -- SAN ANGELO: Forty Hours Devotion Ends 4 -- Basic Formation, 8:45 a.m., St. Francis, with Mass, 10 a.m., Sacred Heart Cathedral. Abilene. 13-15 -- SAN ANGELO: Priests' Clergy Day, 5 -- Collection for Black and Indian Missions. Christ the King Retreat Center. 5 -- Confirmation Retreat, 9:30 a.m., CKRC 16-18 -- LAREDO: National Youth Congress 11 -- Advanced Formation, 8:45 a.m., St. Mary’s, 19-21 -- AUSTIN: Texas Conference of Churches Odessa. Assembly 11 -- Deacon Discernment, 9 a.m., CKRC. West Texan stationed in Crete sends photos of a Christmas Mass celebrat- 25 -- SAN ANGELO: Meeting with Leaders of 17-19 -- Engaged Encounter, CKRC. ed in a cave, one of the most memorable masses priest chaplain Steve Catholic and Episcopalian Cursillos, and Walks to 26 -- Collection for Catholic Relief Services. Hicks said he has ever attended. More photos are on Page 12. Emmaus, Christ the King Retreat Center. 30 -- DOSA Budget, Group 1, 10:30 a.m., 26 - BIG LAKE: Mass, 11:30 a.m., St. Margaret. Pastoral Center. Bishop, priest chaplain stationed in Crete 26 -- SAN ANGELO: Deanery Gathering of 31 -- St. Ann’s Midland Confirmation Retreat, Hispanic Youth, 1-7 p.m., St. Mary. CKRC. 31 -- Region 10 Young Adult Encuentro, Austin. exchange Christmas correspondences MARCH (Editors Note: The following are three years ago on the flight deck of 1 -- SAN ANGELO: Ash Wednesday Mass, APRIL correspondences between Steve my ship in the Arabian Sea. I hope Hicks, stationed in Crete in the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Noon 1-2 -- St. Ann’s Midland Confirmation Retreat, you enjoy looking at them. U.S. Navy, and Bishop MIchael -- Steve Hicks 2 -- SAN ANGELO: Presbyteral Council, 11 a.m., CKRC. 1-2 -- Region 10 Young Adult Encuentro contin- Pfeifer). Diocesan Pastoral Center. Dear Steve: 4 -- SAN ANGELO: Ecumenical Gathering of ues (Austin) 1 -- Basic Formation, St. Francis, Abilene, 8:45 Dear Bishop Pfeifer: Concho Country Emmaus, Episcopal Cursillo, I was very happy to receive your Catholic Cursillo, Chrysalis and Kairos, 10 a.m.- a.m. 2 -- Confirmation Retreat, CKRS, 9:30 a.m. Thank you so much for your letter of message, and thank you for the Noon, First United Methodist Church endorsement allowing me to continue enclosed pictures. It really was good 3 -- Advanced Formation, St. Marys Odessa, 8:45 5 -- SAN ANGELO: Rite of Election, Sacred Heart serving in the Regular Navy. I hope that to hear from you and especially to Cathedral, 2 p.m., 4 p.m. a.m. you had a good Christmas and I wish know how things are going with your 8 -- SAN ANGELO: Staff Mass, 8:30 a.m., Staff 8 -- Deacon Discernment, CKRC, 9 a.m. you the best for the new year. I under- ministry. I do remember the letter you Meeting, 11 a.m., Diocesan Pastoral Center. 14 -- Good Friday, DOSA Offices stand that you will be ordaining a new sent me a few years ago as regards 8 -- SAN ANGELO: Soup and Sermon, Noon, St. 14 -- Holy Land Collection priest in a few days. Congratulations to your Christmas Mass on the carrier, Mary 20 -- DRE, CRE, CYM Day of Reflection, 10 a.m. him and to the Diocese. and this Christmas, you also had 9-12 -- SAN ANGELO: MACC Program, Welcome 22 -- Mustard Seed (tentative), CRKC As I had mentioned to you before another very unique experience by the Stranger, Christ the King Retreat Center. 23 -- Confirmation Retreat, CKRC, 9:30 a.m. I began my assignment in Crete, there celebrating Christmas Mass in a cave. 14-17 -- Private Lenten Retreat 24-27 -- Why Catholic? Launching Sessions has never been a full-time Catholic I am sure it brought back memories 19 -- BIG SPRING: Federal Prison, Mass, 10 a.m. 25-26 -- International Priests Gathering, CKRC chaplain here. There are only three of the birth of Christ who started off 21 -- SAN ANGELO: Staff Lenten Retreat, 10 27 -- DOSA Budget Group 2, Pastoral Center, Catholic churches on the entire his life on earth in a cave/barn. a.m.-1 p.m., Christ the King Retreat Center. 10:30 a.m. island, with a Catholic population of I am going to feature your letter in 22 -- ABILENE: Lenten Night of Prayer with 30 -- Catholic Home Missions Appeal. about 3 percent. In the area, the the West Texas Angelus, as I believe Priests, Sisters, Deacons and Wives of the Abilene Catholic Church offers a Saturday our people need to know about the evening Mass, usually in English for good service being given by a fine Deanery, 7 p.m., Holy Family. Christ the King Calendar-- tourists -- at least in the Summer, but priest chaplain of our Diocese to peo- 23 -- SAN ANGELO: Workshop at Boys and Girls February sometimes it may be in Italian, since ple in another remote part of the Club for Nano Kids Technology, 6 p.m. the priest is a Franciscan from Italy. world. 25-26 -- SAN ANTONIO: University of the 10 -- Natural Family Planning 11 -- Deacon Discernment Our military Catholics had mass on Yes, we are preparing for the happy Incarnate Word - Mass to Celebrate the the base once a month when the area day of the ordination of Deacon Quasquicentennial of the University -4:30 p.m. 12 -- Confirmation Retreat 13-14 -- HBDI Clergy Day's priest could come to offer it. Emilio Sosa on Saturday. Say a prayer 28 -- SAN ANGELO: Lenten Night of Prayer for There is no "chapel" per se at this for him. And, later this spring, we will 14 -- Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Priests, Sisters, Deacons and Wives of San Angelo base. We have a room in the base- be ordaining two of his companions, Deanery, 7 p.m., Holy Angels. 17-19 -- Engaged Encounter ment level of our office building. I so we will have three new priests this 20 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Group could not imagine having a Christmas year for our Diocese. Let us thank the 21 -- Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Eve mass in that space. So, with Lord. Chancellor’s Calendar 24-26 -- Beginning Experience some help from the base Greek repre- Steve, keep up your good ministry, (CKRC = Christ the King Retreat Center) 24-28 -- Billings Ovulation Method Teacher sentative, we arranged to celebrate and if I can assist you in any way, Training Christmas Eve mass in one of the please let me know. Let us pray for FEBRUARY 27 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Group many caves in the area. This particu- each other. God's peace. 11 -- Basic Formation, 8:45 a.m., St. Francis, 28 -- Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament lar cave is used each Christmas by the Abilene. Greek Orthodox Church for their 11 -- Deacon Discernment, 9 a.m., CKRC. Necrology-February liturgy. The local pastor, along with Your brother in Christ and Mary, 12 -- Confirmation Retreat, 9:30 a.m., CKRC, the Orthodox bishop, gave us permis- Bishop Mike San Angelo. sion to use it for our Catholic Mass 13-14 -- Clergy Day, CKRC. 9 -- Rev. Albert Fuytnick, C.SS.R. (1997) before their service. Below are some 17-19 -- Engaged Encounter, CKRC 10 -- Rev. Leo E. Lavoie (1978) photos that were taken during the cel- 24-26 -- Beginning Experience, CKRC 20 -- Deacon Mark Reeh (2005) ebration. It was one of the most 24-26 -- Billings Ovulation NFP Seminar, CKRC. 21 -- Rev. Tom Kelley (2005) memorable and unique services that I 26 -- Encuentro, San Angelo Deanery at St. 22 -- Rev. Francisco Lopez (1994) have had, coming close to one I had Page 6 FEBRUARY 2006 The Angelus The Year of Reconciliation Sacrament of Hints for making a good confession By Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI give us divine pardon and healing, to ebrate the Sacrament. But we cele- penance involves Bishop of San Angelo fill us with God’s mercy, and to give brate reconciliation not merely us the strength to live good lives and because we have to, but because it The main focus of this Year of to overcome sin and temptation. is a Sacrament, a sign and celebra- entire community Reconciliation for the Diocese of Our experience of this Sacrament tion of God pouring forth divine San Angelo is the wonderful will be greatly enriched if we think mercy by reconciling the world S. Hilda Marotta, OFS and Sacrament of Reconciliation and about the reconciliation that Christ through Christ and by bringing S. Adelina García, OSF Penance, commonly called the gives us, and not only about con- peace for all people and all things. “Sacrament of Confession.” In this fession of sins, which is usually not Many of us celebrated our first confession when we year, I encourage all of our people easy for most people. Confession & the Prodigal Son were in one of the primary grades. We remember the to continue, or to reestablish the Reconciliation names what is most One of the most beautiful words, "Bless me Father for I have sinned, My last practice of frequent Confession important and what Jesus does in descriptions of what happens when confession was….". Most of the emphasis focused on which not only forgives sins, but this Sacrament. For this reason, the we confess our sins is found in the a list of sins and confessing what we did wrong. fills us with God’s mercy and proper name given by the Church heart-touching parable of the Often we were fearful of how the confessor might strength to live good, Christian for this sacramental experience is Prodigal Son as told by Christ. A respond. lives. I offer you here a few helps the Sacrament of Reconciliation splendid way to prepare for Today, the sacrament of Penance has a different and hints to better understand the and Penance. The word reconcilia- Confession is to read over this para- approach. The New Rite of Penance, promulgated in Sacrament of Confession. tion is rich in meaning and sug- ble as found in Luke’s Gospel, 1973, focuses on God's love and forgiveness and the gests the gift of God’s forgiveness 15:11-32. Parents need to read over communal aspect of reconciliation with the Church and Confession & Human Needs and the removal of the barriers we this parable with their children as community. Each time we confess our sins, place in front of ourselves, our they prepare for Confession, and Scripture is filled with stories that remind us of there are a special set of human community, and our God. explain that at times we are all in God's unconditional love, mercy and compassion for needs—spiritual, moral, emotional, Reconciliation means re-bridging some way the prodigal son or per- people. We recall the covenant God made with Israel, and psychological—that are the gap between God and us and haps the older son of the parable, and "I will be your God, you will be my people". Although addressed. We are social beings, and between ourselves and others. It we are all called to be like the merci- Israel fell short in the relationship, God was always we need another person to under- also suggests the deep peace that ful father who forgives the younger faithful and responded with love and mercy. In the stand what we are feeling, to help us comes from being brought back son of all his sins and wrongdoings. Gospels we read story after story of Jesus forgiving experience God’s compassion. The into harmony with God and with Let me share a few highlights with and calling people to begin again. The stories reveal a designated human person for cele- our sisters and brothers. you from this parable. forgiving God who loves with an unconditional love. brating this Sacrament is the priest, The prodigal son made a crucial As a People of God we are called to continue the for- who acts in Christ’s name and is Sin is more than life decision. He chose a way of giving ministry in our families and in our communities. using the authority and power given ‘Breaking the Rules’ living that would break him off We are called to reflect a God who has an uncondition- by Christ to His Church. On the In the Sacrament of Confession, from his father and his family. He al love for each of us. Our Church offers us the oppor- very day of Jesus’ resurrection, our sins are forgiven. But sin is demanded that his father give him tunity to experience God's love and mercy through the when he appeared to His disciples, not merely about “breaking the money that he had no right to, then sacrament of Penance. he told them, “Receive the Holy rules.” For the mature Christian, he ran away from home living a Today we find people are less inclined to celebrate the Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are sin is understood in relation to love dissolute and sinful life, wasting all sacrament. Perhaps it is because they feel forgiveness is forgiven them, whose sins you and breaking or weakening a lov- that had been given to him. He had not possible. Perhaps they think that going to God in retain are retained.” Christ knew ing relationship with our Heavenly not only left behind his father’s prayer is sufficient. However, sin and forgiveness are not that we need other human beings to Father and Creator. Our compas- table and love, he left behind what just a private experience. They involve the community. help us with the human feelings of sionate God has an immense love he was taught there. In contempo- Often we fail to see the communal aspect of the sacra- guilt, sorrow and anxiety when we for us and constantly wants to pour rary terms, we would perhaps say ment of Penance. We are called to be reconciled with seek God’s forgiveness of sins in out mercy upon us, even as we he was an alienated, rebellious son, God, ourselves and the Christian community. The sacra- confession. realize how often we have failed to a runaway youth. ment of Penance is a celebration of that forgiveness and return that love. Jesus our loving After the prodigal son had wasted reconciliation. We are the Body of Christ. "If one part What Jesus does and Good Shepherd, who forgives all the gifts that had been given suffers, all the parts suffer with it; if one part is honored, is most Important our sins, constantly calls us to him by his father in sinful living all the parts share its joy." (Corinthians 12:26). At the same time, we need to wholeness and maturity, reminding and realized that he was no longer Our first experience of forgiveness and reconciliation remember that it is what Jesus does us that He came that we might in the family circle, he was filled is in the family. Thus, parents have a special role in the in the Sacrament of Confession that have life and have it abundantly. with hunger and slowly began to child's experience of forgiveness and unconditional love. is the most important thing, and on Yes, sin is more than just “break- admit that he was mired in a pig- "Parents have the first responsibility for the education of this we need to focus the most ing the rules.” Sin is the failure to pen where he sought food, and their children. They bear witness to this responsibility when we confess. The examination grow. Sin is the failure to respond mired in sin and guilt for his first by creating a home where tenderness, forgiveness, of conscience, sorrow for sin, pur- to the love God has shown us in wrongdoings. It was first physical respect, fidelity and service are the rule." (CCC#2223) pose of amendment, and telling of Christ Jesus, who gave His life to hunger that motivated him to return As children grow and develop, parents are involved in the sins to a priest are indeed all forgive our sins. For those who home to his father just as a “hired preparing their children for the sacrament of Penance. important aspects of the Sacrament. have cut themselves off from God hand.”. But once the young man Through teaching and example, parents help their chil- But to have a more positive and and the Church by what we call came to his senses, he made the dren grow in their understanding of God's unconditional meaningful experience of the “mortal sin” or serious and grave decision to return home to his love, compassion, mercy and forgiveness. Sacrament, we need to remember sin and now wish to return to father where he hoped he would Providing opportunities to celebrate the sacrament of what Jesus does. The one to whom God’s table of the Eucharist, the find food—and mercy and forgive- Penance as a family, models that we all fall short in our we are confessing our sins is Church offers the Sacrament of ness. We read how the father ran to relationship with God and one another. Taking time to Christ, and it is our merciful Savior Confession to celebrate their home- meet him, embraced him, loved reflect on those relationships and seeking forgiveness who died on the cross who extends coming. This is the only time through the sacrament of Penance celebrates the uncondi- his hands each time we confess to when Catholics are required to cel- See RECONCILIATION/7 tional love and mercy that God offers each of us. The Angelus FEBRUARY 2006 Page 7 Boy Scouts to be honored in San Angelo Feb. 11 SAN ANGELO. Thirty-seven Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and Wolf Cubs - Light of Christ; Bear and Webelos Scouts to be Honored by Diocese Feb. 11 from the Diocese of San Angelo have earned Catholic LIGHT OF CHRIST: Michael Brown, Blake Crenwelge, Scouts -- Parvuli Dei. Programs for elementary age Girl Scout Religious Emblems for the year 2006. Those Scouts Jacob Edwards, Anthony Garibay, Ian Hoyle, Nicholas Lopez, Scouts are: Brownies - Family of God; Junior Girl will receive their emblems from Bishop Michael Pfeifer Garrett Modawell, Jacob Valenzuela, Nathan Ybarra Scouts -- I Live My Faith. during the 5:30 p.m. Mass to be celebrated February 11th at PARVULI DEI: Matthew Berzoza, Daniel Edwards, Noah Scouts who complete their emblem program during Holy Angels Church in San Angelo. A reception for the Garza. Mitchell Jeffers, Brennan Murnane, Carlos Ramirez, 2006 and whose completed applications are postmarked Nathan Richter, Andrew Romero scouts and their families will follow the event. Those ADALTARE DEI: Clayton Binns, Thomas Blackwood, by December 1, 2006 will be presented the emblem in receiving emblems are from the cities and towns of Patrick Buren, Ben Kalvoda, Marcus Martinez, Westin early 2007 by Bishop Michael Pfeifer, O.M.I. Abilene, Midland, Odessa. Ozona and San Angelo. Zamarippa All Boy Scout program books are available at your The Catholic Church offers four religious emblem POPE PIUS XII: John Blackwood, Ethan Flores, Tyler Scout Council Offices in Abilene, Brownwood, Midland, Halfmann, Ryan Hines, Peter Perez, Bryan Sablan, Thomas programs for Boy Scouts and four for Girl Scouts, which Snyder, Travis Zuberbueler Odessa and San Angelo. Girl Scout program books can correspond to the different levels of Scouting. Junior and I LIVE MY FAITH: Adelina Caballero, Anna Foster, Samantha be purchased at Trudo's Religious Store in San Angelo. senior high school age Scout programs require 8 trained Foster, Kylie Lindsey, Catherine Sites, Elizabeth Teagarden. The Catholic Committee on Scouting is always looking counselors and 6-12 months to complete. The parents of for qualified men and women interested in being a coun- Scouts and Venturers (male and female); Pope Plus XlI; the scouts usually counsel elementary age programs. selor. We provide the training and material.? Cadette Girl Scouts -- The Marian Medal; Senior Girl Programs for junior and senior high are: 7th and 8th For further information contact your local Boy Scout Scouts -- The Spirit Alive. grade Boy Scouts. Adaltare Dei; High School Boy or Girl Scout Council. Programs for elementary age Boy Scouts are: Tiger

ALITO SECOND STRAIGHT Vocation to priesthood CATHOLIC JUSTICE by Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI that a priest had invited them to con- SWORN IN; 5TH OVERALL sider the priesthood. A 2001 I share with you an excerpt that I USCCB survey, however, indicated U.S. President George W. Bush smiles have taken from the December 2005 that only 30 percent of priests as Samuel Alito Jr. is sworn in as an edition of National Association of actively invite men to consider the associate justice of the Supreme Parish Catechetical Directors which priesthood. Statistics cited at: Court during ceremonies at the White strongly reinforces the role priests play www.usccb.org/comm/archives/2005 House in Washington Feb. 1. Chief in promoting Vocations to Priesthood. /05-233.shtml. You might encourage Justice John Roberts, right, adminis- "Research done for the Vocations the priest(s) in your parish to reach ters the oath to Alito. Confirmed Jan. Committee indicates that an invita- out and invite men to consider the 31 by the Senate, he is the fifth tion from a priest is one of the most priesthood. Of course, our gratitude Catholic on the nine-member court. effective ways of having a man con- to our priests (and other ministers) sider the priesthood. Of seminarians makes them see their dedication as ordained in 2003, 78 percent said valuable in our eyes." RECONCILIATION: ‘Prodigal Son’ powerful tool for penance (From 6) rection of Christ. God is not out to catch Why Confess to a Priest The Other Figure in the Parable us in our sin, but is constantly reaching The question is often asked, why con- There is another figure in the parable him, forgave him, took him back as a out and hanging on to us, embracing us in fess my sins to a priest? Why not confess we are dealing with—the older brother— son—not as a hired hand—brought him love, in spite of our sins, and always will- them directly to God, since God has the older son who is not ready to forgive, back to the family table and never men- ing to forgive us. already forgiven me anyway? From forget, and accept his younger brother tioned his sins. Confession of sin can only be sincere if God’s point of view, this simple answer back home. Perhaps at times, some of the it is preceded by humble examination of is: there is no reason. But from our point attitude or behavior of the older brother We are the Prodigal conscience. Confession is actually the of view, the answer is that as human lurks in all of our hearts—we are not Sons and Daughters external expression of the internal trans- beings who do not live in minds and ready to forgive, we require more even In the Sacrament of Confession, we are formation of conversion that happens in thoughts alone, we need to externalize in than God. The older brother’s problem is the prodigal sons and daughters who have our hearts. Conversion is not a once-in-a- a bodily way with words, signs and ges- a universal one. It is tough for most of us already accepted the grace to admit our lifetime moment, but a continuous, ongo- tures what is in our minds and hearts. We to say, “I am sorry;” it is even tougher to sin, and to return to our heavenly Father, ing, lifelong process which brings us ever need to seek, hear and feel forgiveness, say, “You are forgiven.” And it is most the merciful father of the parable, who is closer to the holiness and love of God. not just think about it. We need other difficult of all to say gracefully, “I accept always willing and ready to forgive us, to Each time we go to Confession, our human beings to help us externalize what your forgiveness.” To be able to do that, welcome us with a loving embrace when moral experience of conversion prompts is within us and open our hearts before we must be able to forgive ourselves. we have strayed from home. When we us to turn more and more toward God, the Lord, which then puts confessors in a That, too, is what we celebrate in the humbly admit our guilt and are sorry and because each conversion experience new light. They are best seen not as face- Sacrament of Confession, Reconciliation. confess our sins, God embraces us in reveals God in a new loving manner. less and impersonal judges, but as spiritu- The older son in the story would focus on mercy and love as we celebrate the As we humbly and sincerely confess al guides helping us with our guilt, sor- the brother’s sin and guilt and would not Sacrament of Reconciliation and Pardon. our sins, after admitting our guilt, we row and compassionately helping us to celebrate his return, forgiveness, even The parable of the prodigal son is the need to imagine in our minds the father experience and receive the mercy of God though his father pleaded. But, we should most striking, powerful illustration of the of the parable of the prodigal son, our in our lives. God’s merciful grace and always strive to have the attitude and human process that happens when we go Heavenly Father, rushing out to hug us, good confessors often help people to find heart of the merciful and forgiving father, to Confession and celebrate the to embrace us, to forgive us and fill us the peace and tranquility that people often who told the older son, “But now we Sacrament of Reconciliation, and of the with love and accept us even before we seek from psychologists and psychiatrists. must celebrate and rejoice because your theology that is contained in the sacra- confess our sins. In this parable, Jesus As mentioned earlier, confessors help us brother was dead and has come back to mental ritual that celebrates the divine reveals to us a loving God who simply to deal with basic human needs that we life again; he was lost and has been mercy and pardon that we receive cannot not forgive. experience as we struggle with sin and found.” This is what happens when we because of the suffering, death, and resur- celebrate God’s love and forgiveness. “go to confession.” Page 8 FEBRUARY 2006 The Angelus The Angelus FEBRUARY 2006 Page 9

God is Love

An Encyclical from Benedict XVI

©2006 CNS

In his first encyclical, pope calls Cardinal: New encyclical helps for deeper understanding of love explain God’s love, human love By John Thavis But in modern society, he said, it has become clear that eros By Cindy Wooden to the point that people talk about being swept away and losing Catholic News Service itself has been exalted and the human body debased. Catholic News Service control. “Eros, reduced to pure ‘sex,’ has become a commodity, a Yet if passion is the essence of love, he said, it actually involves VATICAN CITY — In his first encyclical, Pope Benedict mere ‘thing’ to be bought and sold, or rather, man himself VATICAN CITY — Understanding human life as a totally free the loss of the freedom people claim to worry about when they XVI called for a deeper understanding of love as a gift from becomes a commodity. This is hardly man’s great ‘yes’ to the gift of God’s love and love as a gift that seeks nothing in return, hesitate making a permanent commitment to one another. God to be shared in a self-sacrificial way, both at a personal body. On the contrary, he now considers his body and his sex- people can learn to love one another without fear and without Cardinal George said Pope Benedict also tries to address mod- and social level. uality as the purely material part of himself, to be used and exploitation, said Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago. ern cultures’ separation between love and justice. The pope said love between couples, often exploited at will,” he said. In writing his encyclical, “Deus Caritas Est” “What is seen in the encyclical is that, even if justice were to be reduced today to selfish sexual pleasure, needs Properly understood, he said, eros leads a man (“God Is Love”), Pope Benedict XVI was trying established, love would always be necessary” for economic and to be purified to include “concern and care for and woman to marriage, a bond that is exclusive, to help modern men and women understand the political systems to safeguard, promote and defend the human the other.” and therefore monogamous, as well as permanent. greatness of God’s love and of human love, the person, he said. Love is also charity, he said, and the church While it is true that the happiness of eros can cardinal said. An Iranian bishop asked Cardinal George what practical mes- has an obligation to help the needy wherever give people a “foretaste of the divine,” eros needs Cardinal George offered theological reflections sage the encyclical would give to a world in which a few rich and they are found — but its primary motives to be disciplined and purified if it is to provide on the pope’s encyclical Jan. 24 during the clos- powerful countries try to control all the economic and political must always be spiritual, never political or more than fleeting pleasure, the pope said. ing session of a Vatican conference on the decisions of the rest of the world, ensuring they stay in a position ideological. The solution is to rediscover a balance between encyclical organized by the Pontifical Council of poverty and weakness. The nearly 16,000-word encyclical, titled the ecstasy of eros and the unselfish love of Cor Unum, which promotes and coordinates The cardinal answered, “I sometimes try to tell my fellow “Deus Caritas Est” (“God Is Love”), was agape, he said. Catholic charitable activity. The cardinal is a Cardinal George Americans, ‘The world resents us, not because we are rich and issued Jan. 25 in seven languages. Addressed The key to regaining this balance, he said, lies member of the council. free ... they resent us because too often we are blind and deaf,’” to all Catholics, it was divided into two sec- in a personal relationship with God and an under- The cardinal told conference participants that love has to be not understanding the injustice others suffer or being willing to tions, one on the meaning of love in salvation standing of the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. He seen in the light of “God’s self-revelation if the message of the change. history, the other on the practice of love by the said Christ gives the ultimate lesson in “love of encyclical is to be clearly understood.” However, Cardinal George said, there also must be a deeper church. neighbor,” which means: “I love even the person The Trinity itself is “a unity created by the total self-giving of analysis of the factors, including the corruption and mismanage- The pope said his aim was to “speak of the whom I do not like or even know.” the three divine persons, each to the others, for the others, in the ment in the developing world, that prevent a more equal sharing love which God lavishes upon us and which Pope Benedict signs his first The pope said there was an essential interplay others,” the cardinal said. of the world’s goods. we in return must share with others.” The two encyclical. between love of God and love of neighbor. Again, acting only out of a love that neither needed nor asked People in rich countries must hear and take seriously the con- aspects, personal love and the practice of char- “If I have no contact whatsoever with God in for anything in return, God created each human being, he said. cerns and criticisms of people in poorer countries, he said, but ity, are profoundly interconnected, he said. my life, then I cannot see in the other anything Even on earth, the cardinal said, love must strive to reflect the anyone concerned about love and justice also must ask, “If the The encyclical begins with a phrase from the First Letter of more than the other, and I am incapable of seeing in him the totally free gift that is God’s love. United States of America ceased to exist tomorrow, would there John: “God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, image of God,” he said. “In our culture we presuppose that there must be a separation still be poverty and injustice in Iran or anywhere else in the and God abides in him.” The pope said the line expresses the “But if in my life I fail completely to heed others, solely out between eros — understood as human desire, sexually expressed world? I think there would.” heart of the Christian faith, which understands the creator as a of a desire to be ‘devout’ and to perform my ‘religious duties,’ — and agape,” a selfless, spiritual love, the cardinal said. Cardinal George said the pope’s new encyclical, which was loving God and which sees Christ’s death as the ultimate sign then my relationship with God will also grow arid,” he said. “The pope tries to overcome, and I think does so successfully, a scheduled to be released Jan. 25, also emphasizes the identity of of God’s love for man. The second half of the encyclical makes two main points: separation between eros and agape by pointing to the inner move- the church as a sacrament of God’s love in the world. In today’s world, however, the term “love” is frequently ! As a community, the church must practice love through ment of erotic love toward a generosity between a man and a “From this, it must follow that the church is as committed to used and misused, he said. Most commonly, it is understood works of charity and attend to people’s sufferings and needs, woman based on the total self-giving of one to the other for the the service of charity in the form of Christ-like love as she is to as representing “eros,” the erotic love between a man and a including material needs. sake of the other alone,” he said. the preaching of the word and the administration of the sacra- woman. The church, from its earliest days, proposed a new !The church’s action stems from its spiritual mission and “Love becomes ecstasy when a person attains the freedom to ments,” he said. vision of self-sacrificial love expressed in the word “agape,” must never be undertaken as part of a political or ideological give himself completely to another, where there is, in the loving, Motivated by love, he said, the church also must form partner- he said. agenda. a purification of desire,” he said. ships with other groups and organizations engaged in charity and At times, the pope said, the church, with all its command- The pope said there was a connection between the commit- If agape does not become part of the loving relationship, he philanthropy. ments and prohibitions, has been accused of poisoning eros or ment to justice and the ministry of charity, but also important said, the love of eros decays, which is why “pornography is an “The church has no corner, no monopoly on work for the poor of being ready to “blow the whistle” just when the joy of erot- addiction that is never self-satisfying.” and for the elimination of economic and political injustice,” ic love presented itself. See ENCYCLICAL/15 Cardinal George said modern culture has magnified the idea of Cardinal George said. “The work of charity is ecumenical and love as spontaneous over the reality of love as involving choices universal both in its scope and its workers.” Page 10 FEBRUARY 2006 The Angelus WEDDING: The Ask Fr. Webster ... garment of grace What is the ‘seamless garment?’ By Father John Dietzen tant concept than the late Pope John told could be solved with these (From 4) Sacrament of His Mercy? His Catholic News Service Paul II in his January 1999 message pills. I've been ignoring my own Heart must beat with a Divine for the World Day of Peace, and at doctor's advice to use the pill to joy as He absolves us through Q. In articles about abortion greater length in the encyclical "The alleviate problems of my own. Is So by receiving the His priest. Jesus died to bring recently I've seen reference to a Gospel of Life." using "the pill" an option for us? Sacrament of Reconciliation, us this blessed release from "seamless gar- In the first document, titled (Michigan) we are assured of being in the sin and the joy of His salva- ment" and a "Respect for Human Rights: The A. A full response to your question state of grace, which means tion. He waits for us to come "consistent Secret of True Peace," he repeated would be far too long for this column we are assured of heaven; to Him in this Sacrament. He ethic of life." I that the right to life is inviolable. A and require much more information either immediately, or after waits to bestow His merciful recently culture of life, he wrote, "guarantees than you could give in your letter. I some further purification. forgiveness upon us. He waits became to the unborn the right to come into can only offer a few brief suggestions. Doesn't this make the to fill us with His joyful free- Catholic and the world. In the same way it pro- Noncontraceptive use of the so- Sacrament of Reconciliation a dom from sin, that His joy am not famil- tects the newly born, especially girls, called birth control drugs can be very special manifestation of may be in us." iar with these from the crime of infanticide. ... moral under certain circumstances. God's immense mercy? And So my dear friends in names, which "To choose life involves rejecting Several concerns always need to be since everyone who goes to Christ, with the Sacrament of as I under- every form of violence: the violence considered, however. purgatory always goes to Reconciliation readily avail- stand it come Fr. Webster of poverty and hunger, which afflicts For instance, physicians and repro- heaven without exception, able to all of us (thanks be to from the Catholic Church. What so many human beings; the violence ductive scientists are increasingly doesn't this also make purga- God!), will we ever have a do they mean? (New York) of armed conflict; the violence of concerned about the long-term tory a doctrine of mercy? I sufficient excuse to give Jesus A. Both terms have approximately criminal trafficking in drugs and effects of hormonal "medications." believe it does. if we appear before his glori- the same meaning: All issues involv- arms; the violence of mindless dam- Second, a significant group of con- I'm not the only one who ous throne without our proper ing respect for the dignity and sacred- age to the natural environment. ... traceptive agents today are abortifa- recognizes God's infinite wedding garment...without his ness of human life weave together. No offense against the right to life, cient; that is, they accomplish their mercy in His Sacrament of sanctifying grace dwelling in They support each other, and none against the dignity of any single per- contraceptive effect by some form of Forgiveness. As Chaplain for our soul? At any moment dur- can be ignored or minimized without son, is ever unimportant" (No. 4). destruction of a fertilized ovum. the Carmelite Sisters, when I ing our fragile life we might undermining all of them. As the pope indicated, the first of It is important that your daughters invited them to share with me appear before Him, and what The first to use the phrase "consis- all basic rights is the right to life. For have a physician who knows the phar- any thoughts that they might could we possibly say? Are tent ethic of life" was probably the the past 20 years, the seamless gar- macology of the hormone therapy he have regarding we going to say that we were late Cardinal Joseph Bernardin. The ment idea has helped our bishops prescribes, what drugs are involved Reconciliation, one of the too ashamed to confess our beauty of such an ethic, he once and all of us better to understand and and their effects, and is also aware of Sisters had this to say: "Jesus sins in this holy Sacrament, said, "is that it provides an overall protect that right. the moral implications of any pharma- came into the world to save and thereby receive His heal- vision, and it shows how issues are ceutical product which works by sinners. If the angels of God ing grace? If so, then let us related to each other, even though Q. Some time ago you wrote a destroying a developing human life. rejoice over one sinner who recall these sobering words of they remain distinct." column on the noncontraceptive repents, what can be said of St. Ambrose: "This shame While he did not use those exact use of the "birth control pill." My (This month’s Fr. Webster is Jesus' joy when a repentant will avail us little at the judg- words, no one, I believe, has given a two daughters are suffering from Father John Dietzen). soul comes to Him in the ment seat of God." more clear description of this impor- some difficulties they have been

The Human Side Exactly how does a person become cheerful these days?

By Father Eugene Hemrick ing life around him for the first time. endure the hardships. Instead of running from deep-seat- Catholic News Service I always have wondered what the biblical concept ed anxieties, we face them squarely and in doing so are "cheerfulness of heart" might look like in a person. As I in possession of ourselves. Although I tried to avoid it, I couldn't stop staring at observed this man's serenity and joyfulness, I thought to I also wonder if cheerfulness of heart is the result of the man across from me on the Metro. What first caught myself, "This is what you are looking for: a person at cultivating the "sacrament of the moment," which we my eye was the way he wore his peace with himself and the world, and who hasn't lost fully enter into by God's grace. Once so focused, distrac- fedora. It was plopped on his head enthusiasm about life. His smile and cheerful enthusiasm tions are minimized, leaving room for the peace that with brim up in the same manner are so natural!" seems so basic to a cheerful heart. Don Corleone wore his hat in "The How, I wondered, does one cultivate a penchant for As I further pondered the man's enthusiasm, it occurred Godfather." The man's olive skin, joy? to me that "cheerfulness," in Greek, means God's spirit white hair and demeanor fit the If we delved into this man's life, no doubt we would coursing through a person. Interestingly, in Psalm 5 we image of a mafioso boss par excel- find that his heart was broken often. Perhaps his wife read: "But let all who take refuge in God rejoice, let lence. died or his children met with trouble. It could be that he them ever sing for joy." Dismissing my Godfather fanta- suffers from an illness. Yet his face and eyes weren't When we become one with God, we cannot but be sy, I looked into his eyes and was dimmed. filled with God's joy. amazed how they danced with In the midst of crises, had he somehow learned the The next time you need cheering up, look around you enthusiasm. He delighted in every- wise lesson that no one escapes the travails of life? for people who exude cheerfulness of heart. Then fire up thing he looked at. He may have Fr. Hemrick Perhaps he, like so many wise elders, came to accept life your imagination and let it run wild wondering what it is been in his early 70s, but you as it is rather than fighting it and crying "poor me" every exactly that makes them so joyful. You may just find wouldn't know it because he was like a child experienc- time it wasn't to his liking. their secret and join them. Accepting life's realities makes it much easier to The Angelus FEBRUARY 2006 Page 11

DDIOCEIOCE-S-SCENESCENES

In December, a group of 12 seventh and eighth graders at St. Mary’s Odessa had an opportu- nity to have a Christmas afternoon of prayer, music, and fun. It was a mini-retreat for these students in order for them to begin to have a sense of belonging to a Christian community. For them, it was the first retreat of their young Christian lives. To recognize that each of us has special gifts and talents that we can share with each other in forming the body of Christ was one of the core items of this gathering. It was also an opportunity for these young peo- Carmelite Brothers Fr. Fabian Maria, O. Carm., Br. John David, O. Carm., Br. Martin Mary, O. Carm., and Br. Bill Hieb visited with ple to be exposed to one of our Church's valu- Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer Dec. 19, 2005, to present him a Christmas gift with some of the products made at the Carmelite able components: a retreat. A retreat which Hermitage in Christoval, including kolaches, chocolate fudge, and jalapeno jelly. gives them an opportunity to look within them- selves and see how we all can live in the way The St. Ann's School 7th Grade Class, left, went to see the Vatican Exhibit in San Antonio on January 5, 2005. Jesus taught us during his ministry. The retreat The class held a pancake breakfast and spaghetti din- combined group games designed to build com- ner fund-raisers in December. They also raffled off a munity along with periods of reflection and six feet tall stuffed stocking. The class also visited the teaching. One activity for the afternoon was to San Antonio Riverwalk, IMAX Theatre, The Alamo and determine what made up a "Community" and Ripley's Believe It or Not. They attended the noon bilin- then what made up a "Christian Community", gual mass at the San Fernando Cathedral in downtown an activity that helped shows that we are all on January 6th. Needless to say, it was a fun packed part of the Body of Christ. Because of this par- two days of historic treats and faith building activities. ticular age group, there was also a session that If you happen to see one of the student's ask them dealt with "Put-Ups" and "Put-Downs". This about their trip. It was a unique and exciting experi- ence for them. St. Ann's School 7th Grade Class: John issue is of particular importance to this age David Bertelson, Jeremy Blair, Patrick Butler, Shannon group because of the interaction at school with Corbitt, Audrey Erwin, Erica Gonzales, Lori Heredia, their own peers. We often find so often that it Matthew McCallum, Jessica Ochoa, Jon Perez, Lindsey is really easy to put someone down and not Rivera, Amber Sosa, Wil Steward, Ashley Swedig, know how bad it hurts that person. In defining Jason Thornton and Diana Welch. community, Christian community, and the ver- balization of put-downs, the retreatants were given exposure to the harm this type of behav- ior can generate. Another activity which illus- trated Christian Community and our closeness with each other was the web of yarn. All of the participants were gathered in a circle and each person would toss a ball of yarn to a person across from them. Each person had to tell the group a particular gift or talent they possessed. It would continue that way until each person had the opportunity tell of his or her gift or tal- ent. It wove a beautiful web. It showed them how we are all connected to each other, through Christ. Those who participated include Bre'Anna Ruiz, Christian Fierro, Nick Gurr, Antonia Rangel, Kristin Medrano, Maria Hernandez, Luis Esquivel, and Chris Mansanales. Priest Chaplain Steve Hicks, photo at left, celebrates Christmas Mass in a cave in Crete, near where he is stationed in the U.S. Navy. (See Related Story, Page 5). Page 12 FEBRUARY 2006 The Angelus FAMILY From the Easy Chair I heard my Dad laugh. And it was a very good thing to hear EDITOR’S NOTE: The following selection is along with his every word or it might not Last week amid the unbearable weight of for four days next week, and he has talked excerpted from Jimmy Patterson’s blog make sense. his loss, he looked up at me one night and about visiting Big Bend National Park very about his mother’s illness, her final days, Don't feel forced to read it I told him said I think I might like to go to Cooperstown soon because it is one of his favorite places death and the family’s grief. The entire blog Oh, I'll read it, he said. I need to get some- with you and Karen and the kids this summer. in the whole world. And that is Good too. can be read at www.stickydoorknobs.type- thing out of it. We have been talking about a New York It really is a lot of Good. Sadness still pad.com. Select “Mama” (My suspicion here frankly is that Dad is vacation for several months, Karen and I, and hangs everywhere. Mama was buried just just having trouble concentrating at this it is getting closer to reality each day. Dad has one week ago. The memories of the day are heard my Dad laugh particular moment because he has read been trying to get me to Cooperstown with still quite vivid. The pain still hard. There is last night on the Toffler and the over 3 million some odd him for probably 20 years and we have never no getting over the loss of the matriarchal Iphone and it wasn't a pages I think James Michener wrote and he been able to do it. Perhaps there is some sort leader of our family. Mama. You cannot just big laugh but it was a has read aircraft maintenance manuals -- of -- dare I say -- God Thing going on here "GET OVER IT." You can learn to be with laugh nonetheless and it some of which he probably wrote for cry- ... Dad and I have never been able to go ... yet the Grief. Take it to work with you and have sounded good. ing out loud. So a little Kushner ain't too it appears we will finally be able to ... now it sit next to you for awhile as you type and I don't remember what much to handle for an 81-year-old thinker that he needs it most. plug numbers and whatever you do and you his laughter was about but guy like Dad. Unless he's 10 days removed God Thing. can manage Grief and accept it and still love I think it had to do with his Patterson from losing his wife of 59 years which Dad Gotta be. that someone who is gone. It can be done. trying to keep his mind on is.) He has been to my sister's and brother's three We are all doing it. All 70 or 80 of us who a book I had recommended that he read -- But the story, the real story, is not that Dad nights in a row for dinner and on Tuesday he were loved most by Mama, Nana, Betty. When Bad Things Happen to Good People, can't concentrate while reading just now, but even went to something the Baptists call So the laughter from Dad was Good. The by my favorite inspirational author Harold that he managed to muster a chuckle and Evergreen where Senior Citizens at the church planning of life ahead Good. Really Good. Kushner who can flat write when Grief is on that's Good Stuff. meet and eat each week. He went. Alone. And It rains. It pours. And then one day the sun the line. My wife Karen believes firmly in her he hadn't been in a month. And the last time he peeks from behind a cloud. And a form of He mentioned something about having to father-in-law and his propensity for making went he was not alone. Yet he went alone. brightness seems to begin to emerge again. really concentrate on the meaning of the it if you will. And he will I think. Yesterday. And that is Good. Good Thing. writing to put it all together and I remarked There are mounting tidbits of Good Stuff And he and my brother will visit my God Thing. about how Kushner wasn't too convoluted I coming from my childhood home where brother's vacation home in Cloudcroft, NM Gotta be. didn't think and he chuckled for a moment Dad still lives. (where God vacations, I believe) and stay Jimmy Patterson is Editor of the Angelus and Dad next said you just have to follow Your Family Memories of Catholic school days By Bill & Monica Dodds If you have a "favorite" religious themes over the past 30-plus years Catholic News Service order -- you just might be a Catholic often have reflected current issues or school graduate. concerns. The marketing campaign Let's start with a variation on those If it still occurs to you "today is is designed to encourage Catholic "You just might be a redneck" jokes. First Friday" -- you just might be a educators to sell and showcase their If you pop up Catholic school graduate. schools throughout the year -- not from your chair If you landed a great scholarship at just during Catholic Schools Week. whenever a a college your family otherwise "Marketing." Now there's a word priest or sister couldn't have afforded -- you just you may not have heard at a Catholic enters the room might be a Catholic school graduate. school if you graduated in the '60s or -- you just If, despite mounting tuition, you're earlier. Here's another term: "develop- might be a sending your children to a Catholic ment director." These days it takes a Catholic school school -- you just might be a lot more than chocolate bars. graduate. Catholic school graduate. How to best mark Catholic If, over the Schools Week? No doubt a donation years as a stu- Bill & Monica Dodds Character, Compassion, Values -- whether large or small -- will be dent, you ped- This year's Catholic Schools Week, greatly appreciated. dled more than 300 chocolate bars -- Jan. 29-Feb. 4, has the theme “The teacher sent it to my mom. Do you just might be a Catholic school "Catholic Schools: Character. NCEA Facts you think there’s any chance graduate. Compassion. Values." That slogan is Established in 1904, the NCEA is the it’s a valentine?” "truly a reflection of our times," said largest private professional education If you automatically say a little © 2006 CNS prayer when an aid car passes by Karen Ristau, president of the organization in the world, representing with its siren on -- you just might be National Catholic Educational 200,000 Catholic educators serving 7.6 a Catholic school graduate. Association. "Parents are choosing million students in Catholic elementary If you hate plaid skirts or cardigan Catholic schools for the strong values and secondary schools, in religious sweaters -- you just might be a they provide. Our schools emphasize education programs, in seminaries, col- Answers: Catholic school graduate. good character and encourage com- leges and universities. 6. N If you can easily name four passion, and these three words are On the Web: "Thank you, Sister." The 1. O 7. O Marian hymns -- you just might be a key to our Catholic identity." religious orders that were the backbone 2. O 8. O of Catholic education for many, many 9. N Catholic school graduate. Dominican Sister Glenn Anne decades continue to struggle financially. 3. N If your head automatically bobs McPhee, education secretary at the Read more about how you can help at 4. N 10. O when the word "Jesus" is said during U.S. Conference of Catholic the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' 5. O 11. N Bishops, which co-sponsors the National Religious Retirement Office site: 12. O. the Hail Mary -- you just might be a www.usccb.org/nrro. Catholic school graduate. week with NCEA, said the weeks' The Angelus FEBRUARY 2006 Page 13 JUST 4 KIDS READ MORE ABOUT IT was asked to take his place. He Mark 1 & 2 refused and built a small hermitage on his own land. His devotion and Q&A simple life attracted several follow- 1. What was Jesus doing when ers, who worked to earn money to Simon found him? buy what little food they ate. 2. What did Jesus ask of the leper? Eventually Benedict had to build a larger monastery. He was very influ- BIBLE ACCENT ential in developing reforms in some The Middle East of the other monasteries of the Iraq, Israel, Syria and other region. He served Emperor Louis the Middle Eastern countries are men- Pious and helped to write the tioned in the news almost every day. canons, or laws, of reformation for The region, which is important to the council of Aachen in 817. Jews, Muslims and Christians, has a Benedict wrote many rules and texts, long history of conflict. Some of the including the Concord of Rules, for tension has been caused because of monks and other religious. boundaries that were created after After many years of hardships and Jesus heals a leper and paralytic World Wars I and II. This has been sickness, he died in 821 at the age especially true about the relationship of 71. We remember him on Feb. 12. By Joe Sarnicola could not enter any town in the area between Israel and neighboring Arab without large groups of people waiting Catholic News Service countries. In Iraq, there also is con- KIDS' CLUB for him, asking for his help. He tried to Share your thoughts on this week's stay in deserted places away from the flict between the Sunni Muslims and Jesus woke up before the first sun- Bible story with family and friends by light of morning and went out where he towns, but even there, people would Shiite Muslims. could be alone to pray. When his find him. Oil is very valuable to the region writing an essay in response to this prayers were interrupted by Simon and After Jesus returned to Capernaum, and to the world. The largest reserves question: a few of his other disciples, Jesus said, so many people came to the house of this natural resource are in Iraq and What is one of your favorite Bible "Let us go on to the nearby villages where he was staying that there was Saudi Arabia. Israel has a negligible stories, and why? that I may preach there also. For this no room for them. So Jesus decided to amount of oil within its borders. purpose have I come." Jesus and his preach to the people, since he knew Water is also a factor, because it is PUZZLE friends went on to Galilee, preaching, they wanted him to speak. needed for drinking, irrigation and Place an "O" next to the books that healing and performing miracles. Trying to get through the crowd were industry. The bodies of water around are from the Old Testament, and an A leper who had heard about Jesus four men. They were carrying a para- the Middle East provide routes to "N" for those from the New Testament. knelt down and begged before him. "If you lyzed friend on a stretcher. They want- import and export supplies. Try it first without looking at your Bible: wish, you can make me clean," he said. ed Jesus to heal him. They could not We should pray for the people of the Jesus nodded and smiled at the man get near the house, so they climbed up Middle East when we pray for peace. 1. Genesis ______with leprosy. Then he extended his onto the roof and broke a hole in it. 2. Obadiah ______hand and said: "I do will it. Be made Then they carefully lowered their friend SPOTLIGHT ON SAINTS 3. Jude ______clean." Immediately the man was com- down in front of Jesus. St. Benedict 4. Romans ______pletely healed from his disease. Jesus saw their faith and said to the Benedict of Aniane was born about 5. Esther ______Jesus also made one request of the paralyzed man, "Child, your sins are the year 750 in southern France. When 6. Ephesians ______forgiven." There were Scribes present man in a stern voice. "See that you tell he was a boy, he was a cupbearer for 7. Haggai ______no one anything, but go, show yourself who did not think a man could forgive 8. Joshua ______sins. Jesus knew their thoughts and King Pepin and his son Charlemagne. to the priest and offer for your cleans- 9. Galatians ______ing what Moses prescribed; that will be said, "The Son of Man has authority to As a man, Benedict knew he wanted to proof for them." forgive sins on earth." pursue a religious life of some kind. He 10. Amos ______But the man was so excited about The paralyzed man picked up his joined an abbey near his home where 11. Revelation ______being healed that he told everyone he mat and was able to walk home with he would be able to live peacefully and 12. Malachi ______met what had happened to him and his friends. quietly as a monk. who had done it. As a result, Jesus When the abbot died, Benedict

Coming of Age Learning more about AIDS ... some people know more than they think By M. Regina Cram the topic of HIV/AIDS. I was the Immunodeficiency Virus, the virus anyone with HIV. Ironically, two stu- Catholic News Service lucky speaker. that eventually leads to AIDS. I asked dents in that very classroom were, in The class had just completed a unit how many of them thought they might fact, HIV positive. These two kids I walked into the high school class- on HIV and AIDS, so they knew all know someone with HIV. Three or didn't look any different from anyone room, all eyes locked on me. I knew about the subject. At least they four hands tentatively went up. else, so no one knew. Their presence what they were thinking because a thought they did. My goal was to When I asked how many were fairly certainly didn't endanger anyone. The student had tipped me off ahead of shake up some of their comfortable certain that they don't know anyone virus was part of their lives. time. They were wondering, "Does assumptions and perhaps put a human with HIV, a sea of hands were raised. I showed the class a photo of three she have AIDS?" face on the disease. It turned out to be I smirked as I proceeded to tell young women. I explained that the The answer is no, but they didn't an easy assignment. them about a health class I taught in a women were sisters; two were know that. All they knew was that a I began by reviewing some basics: wealthy suburb. Most of those kids guest speaker would teach that day on HIV stands for Human were also certain they didn't know See YOUTH/14 Page 14 FEBRUARY 2006 The Angelus

PATTERSON: Openness to all beneficial for all LENT: Abstinence on (From 1) be Catholic amid the other world religions. respecting other traditions. And we can only Fridays recommended And it was fascinating, yet at times uncom- become much better for it. Welcome, too, to the 21st Century Catholic fortable for some in attendance. Being non-judgmental in a world of religious during lenten season Church. More than one workshop attendee expressed intolerance and ignorance can only make the OK, suggesting that Catholics mix in a lit- more than a slight discomfort with the notion Catholic Church more appealing. After all ... he (From 3) tle Islam and Hindu teaching with their week- that a Hindu or a Muslim has his or her ticket who is not against us ... is for us. punched for a heavenly hereafter. When my mother passed away in January, ly or daily Eucharist is stretching it a bit, but more pastoral guidance on this point what happened last weekend at the San Angelo “Every religion has some truth and reflects my parish in Midland celebrated her memory Convention Center was indeed something you aspects of the divine,” Fr. Abraham said, noting by offering Mass for her -- for 10 straight one may contact the local pastor. A would’ve probably never seen or heard just a that Gandhi was not a Christian yet one of the days. My mom was a Baptist. I found the more serious reason should be present few years ago. most beloved and noble spiritual thinkers in kindness of this cross-denominational gesture to excuse from the Ash Wednesday Certainly Pope John Paul II was ecumenical history. both moving and revealing and Good Friday penance. and loving of people of all faith traditions, but No longer do Catholics hang a sign out that This ecumenism and acceptance of other Self-imposed fasting on the other it now seems that it is now being taken to a says extra ecclesiam nulla salun -- “Outside beliefs -- both Christian and non-Christian -- weekdays of Lent is recommended. whole new level. the church there is no salvation.” Instead it is is really a brilliant move first introduced by Abstinence on all Fridays of the year A workshop entitled “Being Catholic in a embracing our world differences and making Vatican II and recently brought to the fore is also highly recommended. The Pluralistic Society,” conducted by Fr. it very clear that we are not to judge others by again. We can all learn, be accepting of oth- Peace Pastoral of the American Abraham Orapankal, a missionary priest from their religious beliefs, we are to respect them. ers, cease to be judgmental and create for our Bishops, stating that prayer is incom- the Diocese of Kohima in northeast India. There will certainly continue to be examples Church a reputation of openness to all. Aside plete without penance, urges Friday What transpired over the course of the hour- of ignorance directed at the Catholic Church from it being a good move for the church and abstinence as something all plus session was more a discussion of how (the latest being one West Texas minister report- its people ... it’s simply the right thing to do. American Catholics should offer for non-Christians are welcome to practice how edly teaching his congregation that we --- the sake of world peace. they best see fit -- and who are we to say they Catholics worship the pope -- oh, brother -- Jimmy Patterson is editor of The Angelus. Parents and teachers should see to will or won’t enter heaven -- as it was how to and don’t believe in hell) yet we are now at a it that even those who are not bound time that we are becoming much more open to by the laws of the fast and abstinence because of age are brought up in an CONFERENCE: Faith’s dimensions help us grow atmosphere that is conducive to a sense of penance. (From 1) Psalms and the Gospel. ! Catholicism has a social conscience. The faithful should be clearly and ! Catholicism celebrates the human “Our U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops positively encouraged to to receive beliefs: intellect. “We engage our central faculties speaks out against social issues like immi- the Sacrament of Penance during ! Catholicism is sacramental. In fact, with the continuing revelation of Jesus gration rights and abortion. Our people Lent. There should be adequate time Catholicism offers three aspects other Christ,” Rickard said. “We don’t have the work for justice. It is at the heart of who scheduled for Confessions before faiths do not: the Eucharist, tradition and same difficulties some other churches may we are and what we celebrate.” Easter. Group penance services Sacramentals. have, but for us we look at the whole con- Rickard said the 300-plus in attendance should not be scheduled for the last !Catholicism makes present the divine text of the Scripture. What did Scripture were “seekers and pilgrims” who need to days of Holy Week. mystery in a concrete way. mean to the early cultures and what does it be constantly renewed. All the faithful, after they have been ! Catholicism is communal. We bring mean to us today? She also amusingly cited that not every - initiated into the Most Holy Eucharist, communion to the sick, have devotion to “There is a bumper sticker I’ve seen: - or not any -- church is perfect. are bound by the obligation of receiv- Mary, and pray to saints and Mary to inter- ‘Jesus said it. I believe it. That settles it.’ If “Fr. Andrew Greeley said ‘If you can ing Communion at least once a year, ceded for us, an aspect of the faith that you’re Catholic, you ask: What did he say find a perfect church then you should go ordinarily, during the Easter Season. began very early. ... when did he say it ... and what does the ahead and join it. But as soon as you join Funeral and Nuptial Masses are not ! Catholicism is a tradition. Not only Church teach about it? Catholicism allows it, it won’t be perfect.” allowed on Holy Thursday, Good do we have the traditions the church has us to engage in Scripture.” In a letter introducing the conference, Friday or Holy Saturday. The Funeral given us, but we are also, contrary to ! Catholicism finds God in all creation. San Angelo Bishop Michael Pfeifer wrote Rite outside of Mass, however, can be some, a Bible-based faith. How we devel- ! Catholicism is universal. The Mass is that the conference “will challenge us to held either in church or at the chapel on oped the reputation of not being Bible- celebrated in 45 languages in Los Angeles look at the various religious traditions that those days, with a memorial mass later. based is in itself a mystery ... especially and it is said that every minute of every exist in our world. Vatican II calls us to The liturgical directions of the since a large portion of the Mass is Bible day the Mass is being said somewhere in learn more about these and how people of Sacramentary and the Lectionary based from prayers to Holy Communion to the world and they are all celebrating the other religious traditions come to know must be faithfully observed regarding the readings, which of course include the body of Christ. God and live their faith.” all the special Holy Week Rites. YOUTH: No danger in talking to people who have AIDS (From 13) grams, but she always returned to the just wouldn't take the chance." someone. You don't get it by sharing a drugs. Eventually she contracted HIV. "I wouldn't either," answered one pizza or holding hands. HIV is not healthy, and one had AIDS. I asked if Again I posed a question to the class. guy honestly, "but really, it's more out transmitted by normal social contact." they could tell me which one. "Imagine that your best friend is in the of prejudice than anything else." I told a few more stories, the stu- They couldn't. late stages of AIDS and that you visit Then I passed around photos of two dents asked questions, and all too So I pointed to a vibrant young him every week at the AIDS residence young children looking adoringly at soon the bell rang. Several kids woman in the center of the photo, and where he lives. Now imagine that you their aunt as she painted their tiny fin- stopped to say "thank you" before slowly I unraveled her story. I said have two tiny children. Do you bring gernails. "The truth is that your chil- heading to the door. that she was my kid sister and that them with you when you visit?" dren would not be endangered by One kid turned back around, hesi- what began as sneaking cigarettes and Hands shot up around the room. your friend with AIDS," I stressed. "If tated a moment, and said quietly, "I'm beer in junior high ultimately led to a "No! A child's immune system isn't anything, it's the other way around really sorry about your sister." 20-year addiction to drugs and alco- mature; my kid could catch something since your friend's immune system hol. My sister went through detox cen- from someone with AIDS." would be so weak. Besides, you can't ters and numerous drug treatment pro- "Definitely not," insisted another. "I get HIV by playing 'Go Fish' with The Angelus FEBRUARY 2006 Page 15 ENCYCLICAL: Pope calls for humanitarian witnesses (From 8) justice and awaken the spiritual energy “One does not make the world more said, should not be seen as opportunities needed for the sacrifices that justice human by refusing to act humanely here for proselytism, in the sense of imposing distinctions. Building a just social and requires, he said. and now,” he said. And charity will the church’s faith on others. civil order is an essential political task to “Christian charitable activity must be always be necessary, even in the most just “But this does not mean that charitable which the church contributes through its independent of parties and ideologies. It is society, he said. activity must somehow leave God and social doctrine, but it “cannot be the not a means of changing the world ideo- In any case, he said, it is an illusion to Christ aside,” he said. Without proposing church’s immediate responsibility,” he logically, and it is not at the service of think that the state can provide for all specific guidelines, he added: “A Christian said. worldly stratagems, but it is a way of needs and fully resolve every problem. knows when it is time to speak of God “A just society must be the achievement making present here and now the love “We do not need a state which regulates and when it is better to say nothing and to of politics, not of the church,” he added. which man always needs,” he said. and controls everything,” but a state that let love speak alone.” “The church cannot and must not take The pope examined and rejected the supports initiatives arising from different The pope said that prayer should not be upon herself the political battle to bring Marxist arguments that the poor “do not social forces, he said. The church is one of forgotten as the church tries to alleviate about the most just society possible. She need charity but justice,” and that charity those forces, he said. the immense needs around the world. cannot and must not replace the state,” the is merely a means of preserving a status The pope said that those working for “People who pray are not wasting their pope said. quo of economic injustice. He said the Catholic charitable organizations need to time, even though the situation appears “Yet at the same time she cannot and church must help the needy wherever they be witnesses of the faith as well as profes- desperate and seems to call for action must not remain on the sidelines in the are found, and he cited Blessed Mother sionally competent in humanitarian alone. Piety does not undermine the strug- fight for justice,” he said. The church’s Teresa of Calcutta as an example of love affairs. gle against the poverty of our neighbors, role is to make the rational arguments for in action. The church’s charitable activities, he however extreme,” he said. CULTURE: Diversity of America has richly rewarded us all

(From 3) American History Month is intended to heritage is racism. Sadly, racism still into the family and the home where peo- evoke a sense of racial pride and empow- remains a part of the American landscape. ple learn who they are and why. It is the The cultural dimensions of African- er African-Americans to honor the rich Racism dulls the conscience, blinds rea- family that can teach us much about our- Americans have enriched and enhanced legacy of their forebears. Sankofa is a son, wounds the will, stifles creativity, selves, and to respect families that are dif- our country. African-Americans especially design symbol of Adrinka cloth traced to and erodes charity. Racism operates ferent than ours. It is the family that is the offer a spirituality rooted in family that is the Asante people of Ghana. It literally silently in strategies of self-interest and in first school and the first laboratory for the so much needed in our nation today. This means “go back and fetch it,” signifying structured patterns of discrimination. transmission of culture, the passing on of spirituality has come out of the historical the wisdom of learning from the past to Because racism is fundamentally a values, the handing down of traditions, the lived experience of the African-American build the future. moral evil against the nature of the human planting of the seeds of faith and the procla- community in the USA, in Africa, and, This is the primary reason for the annu- person, its elimination requires ultimately mation of the Good News of love and hope. for some, in the Caribbean and other al celebration of this month. It brings with a moral solution. African-American As we continue through the new centu- places. It is rooted in the present-day it a call to African-Americans to draw History Month reminds us that racism ry and millennium, all of us are chal- lived experience of African Americans as from the great legacy of their ancestors, will be eliminated only when human lenged to step outside of our cultural they face the problems and demands of their wisdom, courage, hope, resolve, and beings acknowledge and respect all other experiences, to embrace our differences today’s contemporary society. unshakable faith that allowed them to human being as persons made by God in and to let our lives be enriched by them. This unique cultural dimension, with its conquer insurmountable odds. This rich the Divine image and likeness. This month helps us to appreciate the varied expressions, is woven into many legacy inspires all of us to pursue the best In this special month, African- great contribution African-Americans religious, literary artistic expressions that in life. Americans experience a special pride in have made to our country. make our country strong. What has often blocked the full expres- their color and their heritage. The chal- The annual remembrance of African- sion of the African-American culture and lenge today is to bring this rich heritage

STORY: Diocese hopes for amicable outcome KING: Cure to societal (From 1) of the bishops' Charter," which serves as readers sooner about the environment we ills -- turn off television the guiding document in this crucial mat- are all working toward for our children, (From 4) ter. For three years, since the audit's the article would have been a fairer piece. tion from the Standard-Times' January 22 inception, the diocese has received the “The people of West Texas are deserv- abolish discrimination were enacted, story, the article fell short of giving its highest praise. ing of accurate information regarding the all society would benefit. And all soci- readers a story complete in its facts. As a “We have conducted 100 Ethics churches where they worship,” Pfeifer ety would pay the cost rather than one result of this neglect, Paul Anthony's Workshops for over 3,600 clergy, reli- said. “It is our newspapers' responsibility part of it.” story carried with it a negative bias gious, employees, and volunteers, making to present that information for its reader- Thirty years later, addressing the toward the diocese,” Pfeifer said. them aware of recognizing and reporting ship. Yet, it must take all necessary steps Catholic Health Association in Additionally, the article held until the child sexual abuse, “Pfeifer said. to present ALL of the information. Doing Orlando, Fla., King had a simple reme- final three paragraphs information regard- “Realizing the scope of this terrible prob- anything less is unfair not only to the dy to cure many societal ills: “Turn off ing the diocese's full compliance with an lem in today's society, the diocese has also Church itself, but to the parishioners of the television.” audit that shows we are creating in the conducted over 150 workshops for par- the Church.” Although positive role models exist, diocese a safe environment for children. ents, and presented a Safe Environment The Diocese of San Angelo and the San she told the CHA, they are not “raised Conducted by the Gavin Group, an inde- Curriculum to over 13,000 students. Angelo Standard-Times have enjoyed a up” because the media is too busy ele- pendent firm engaged by the United “We have taken a proactive position on long-standing good and amicable relation- vating “newsmakers.” Sports figures States Conference of Catholic Bishops' this terrible subject. We are better for it ship. We wish that to continue and are and celebrities with spotty records get Office of Child and Youth Protection, the and our children are safer for it.” hopeful it can. air time, along with violent events and audit's finding showed the diocese to be Had the Standard-Times mentioned this negative role models, and as a result a in "complete compliance with all article important information and perhaps told its “toxic culture” is created, she said. Page 16 FEBRUARY 2006 The Angelus THE BACK PAGE Journalist investigates controversial, Top Ten An on-line liturgical music survey lists the following as the mysterious Catholic force ‘Opus Dei’ top 10 church songs On Eagle’sWings “Opus Dei: An Objective Look Behind the Myths 1. in the ordinary tasks of 2. Here I Am, Lord and Reality of the Most Controversial Force in the daily life. He also 3. Be Not Afraid Catholic Church,” by John L. Allen Jr. Doubleday taught that Christians 4. You Are Mine (New York, 2005). 403 pp., $24.95. are called to be con- 5. How Great Thou Art templatives in the 6. Holy God, We Praise Reviewed by Graham G. Yearley world and should see Thy Name Catholic News Service themselves as daugh- 7. Amazing Grace ters and sons of God, 8. All Are Welcome Opus Dei, an international association of Catholic 9. Prayer of St. Francis not as slaves. As sons 10. Ave Maria men and women, has been for decades the darling and daughters, of conspiracy theorists. John L. Allen Jr.’s new Christians are free. Source: National Association of Pastoral Musicians book, “Opus Dei,” not only forcefully dispels many That freedom includes ©2006 CNS of the myths surrounding the organization, but holding any political offers a balanced overview of its founder, St. position and voting for Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer, and the spiritual for- any candidate, as long ‘On Eagle’s Wings’ is mation program he created. as the teachings of the Allen makes clear that he is not and has never Catholic Church are respected. Even many ex-mem- top song in online been a member of Opus Dei. If he were, he wouldn’t bers of Opus Dei report they were never coerced to be a particularly good member, as Opus Dei (Latin vote for or support any particular position. for “God’s Work”) believes that its adherents should Opus Dei was never intended to be an autonomous liturgical music survey work in the everyday world anonymously and not religious order. Instead, its members accept whole- trade on the name of Opus Dei for personal gain. heartedly the authority of the church and remain sub- The book is subtitled: “An Objective Look Behind ject to the local bishop. In 1982, Pope John Paul II By Mark Pattison the Myths and Reality of the Most Controversial granted Opus Dei the canonical status of a personal Catholic News Service Force in the Catholic Church.” Allen begins with an prelature, which Allen describes as “a limited kind overview of the organization and its founder. Father of diocese, only in this case the borders are defined WASHINGTON — “On Eagle’s Wings,” the musical reworking of the Escriva, a young Spanish priest, had the vision that by contract rather than geography.” Opus Dei 91st Psalm by Father Michael Joncas, topped all other songs in an online inspired Opus Dei May 2, 1928. While Father remains the only group granted this status. poll asking which liturgical song most fostered and nourished the respon- Escriva claimed his vision arrived “whole and com- Members of Opus Dei do not wear clothing or dent’s life. plete,” Allen points out that changes and amend- badges that might distinguish them. They are free to Two songs made popular by the St. Louis Jesuits — “Here I Am, Lord” ments to Opus Dei were made with Father Escriva’s tell their families of their vocation, but Opus Dei and “Be Not Afraid” — came in second and third, followed by “You Are cooperation during his lifetime. discourages its followers from making their calling Mine,” by David Haas. Next, Allen details the four fundamental beliefs that public knowledge. This anonymity is spiritually The online poll was sponsored by the National Association of Pastoral the recently canonized St. Escriva envisioned as a enriching, but it is often interpreted as secrecy. Musicians. The poll was featured last year in an issue of its membership spiritual program for both Catholic laity and clergy. Allen argues that Opus Dei is far more open to magazine, Pastoral Music, and announcements about the poll were dis- Most important of these is the position that all men examination than its critics maintain and is much tributed to diocesan newspapers in an effort to get the input of “rank-and- and women participate in the redemption of the world smaller in number, around 85,000 worldwide. file Catholics,” said J. Michael McMahon, the association’s president. In the poll, respondents could vote for only one song. No songs were listed on the Web site to give them suggestions. About 3,000 people took part in the poll. Turin, here we come Of the 25 liturgical music songs mentioned most, songs written after the Second Vatican Council took not only the top four positions, but six of the top nine, and 12 of the top 25. The fourth-ranked song, “You Are Mine,” received 138 votes, 81 percent more votes than the fifth-ranked song, U.S. cross-coun- “How Great Thou Art,” which got 76. try skier Rebecca McMahon, in a telephone interview with Catholic News Service, cau- Dussault of tioned against the notion that post-Vatican II music has dominance over Gunnison, Colo., all other liturgical music. “We got 670 different songs mentioned,” he poses for a photo in December said. “Even the top choice is only 8 percent of the total,” or 242 votes. 2005. Dussault, a The poll results didn’t surprise McMahon. “It panned out pretty much Catholic, will be like the way I expected,” he said, adding that The Tablet, a British part of the U.S. Catholic newspaper, conducted a similar survey, which found “Here I cross-country ski Am, Lord” to be the top choice of its readers. team during the Rounding out the pastoral musicians association’s top 10 was, in sixth 2006 Winter place, the traditional Catholic hymn “Holy God, We Praise Thy Name,” Olympics in whose lyrics are ascribed to Ignaz Franz, followed by John Newton’s Turin, Italy, which “Amazing Grace,” Marty Haugen’s “All Are Welcome,” Sebastian begin Feb. 10. Temple’s “Prayer of St. Francis,” and “Ave Maria.” (CNS photo/cour tesy Sharbel Those who voted for “Ave Maria” and “Panis Angelicus,” which fin- Dussault) ished 15th, probably meant the versions by Franz Schubert and Cesar Franck, respectively, “but we don’t know for sure,” McMahon said. “Since many of them (voters) were not professionals, they probably did- n’t realize there was more than one version.”