VOL. 79 NO. 1 WWW.BISMARCKDIOCESE.COM JANUARY 2020 Dakota Catholic Action Reporting on Catholic action in western ND since 1941 Watching over us

Spirited contest

By Patti Armstrong DCA Writer In the halls of every Catholic high school in North Dakota during Catholic Schools Week, there will erupt a tumultuous clamor of wild cheers and reverberating music during an intense competition rivaling any sport’s event. Even before the competition begins, excitement erupts and re-erupts throughout until the fi nal explosion from the winning team. The “Know Your Faith” competition, where knowledge of the Catholic faith is the game, is just that intense. It’s hard to imagine the level of enthusiasm if you have not personally experienced it. So, it was no surprise 16 years ago ur Mother Mary is the patroness of the when the idea for a jeopardy-like Diocese of Bismarck so she’s always been competition between classes was met Owatching over us, but her likeness took over with skepticism by the administration a new position atop the Our Lady of Victory Chapel at St. Mary’s Central High School of at the new St. Mary’s Central High School. Bismarck. It would take up class time The 12-foot statue honors Mary, the mother of and create extra work and expenses. Jesus and the patroness of the fi rst Catholic school And, what if it bombed? in Bismarck. The statue is 90 feet above ground Monsignor James Shea, the school and sits on top of a golden dome. Light of Christ chaplain in 2005, had teamed up with Catholic Schools students in grades kindergarten Jerome Richter, a religion teacher through 12, staff and parents witnessed the moment and department chair, to propose of unveiling the golden statue of Mary on Nov. 26. the idea. They were undeterred by Attending the brief program were students skepticism. “What we really wanted from the fi ve Light of Christ Catholic Schools—St. was to establish the study of the faith Mary’s Central High School, St. Mary’s Academy, as a substantive, worthwhile, exciting Cathedral of the Holy Spirit Elementary, St. Mary’s thing to do,” explained Msgr. Shea, Grade School and Saint Anne School. The program now the president of the University of Mary. “Faith is about matters that included: a welcome and opening remarks from are serious—life and death and the Light of Christ Catholic Schools President Gerald salvation of souls—and about how to Vetter, blessing by Bishop Kagan; praying of one live and laugh and be together. Good decade of the rosary, led by Fr. Dominic Bouck, books and good instruction were in SMCHS Chaplain and the SMCHS choir sang “May place, but enthusiasm was something the Lord Bless and Keep You.” that had to be nurtured and prayed for.” The Our Lady of Victory Chapel is one of four centers of the new high school. The St. Thomas Go-ahead given Aquinas Academic Center and the athletic center “I thought the idea was brilliant,” are currently open to students. The auditorium in Continued on page 12 the fi ne arts center and the Our Lady of Victory Chapel will A LOOK INSIDE open at a later date.

Greatness through virtue Organ scholarship Plan at the University of Mary A diocese program aims at reviving focuses on inspiring virtuous sacred music through organ student-athletes ...... Page 6 scholarships ...... Page 10 | JANUARY 2020 2 Dakota Catholic Action Bishop David D. Kagan Pray for victims of abuse but not to be transparent about that I, as your bishop, will do all you to pray for all the victims of FROM THE BISHOP this mortally sinful activity would in my power to make certain that this terrible and sinful activity of be wrong. this happens for you not just once sexual abuse of minors. The information provided in or occasionally, but every day and Please pray for our deacons this issue, I hope, will be helpful always in our parishes, schools and priests that they will be good to all Catholics in our diocese but and communities. and faithful servants of the Lord’s most especially to anyone who Finally, and most importantly, holy Church. Know that I pray for thinks he or she may have been I must make certain that every all of you every day at Mass. May sexually abused by a diocesan person who brings a complaint is we grow in our faith, hope and representative in the past or heard and listened to and provided charity as brothers and sisters present. What is of the utmost with whatever he or she may in Jesus and may we help each importance is to report any such need to obtain healing and peace other achieve life’s hope which is actions immediately to local of mind and heart. I ask each of Heaven. civil authorities and then to the diocese. Information on how to BISHOP’S SCHEDULE Bishop David D. Kagan do this is provided with the other JANUARY 2020 information in this issue. rothers and sisters in Christ As I said in my letter to all of Jan. 1 • Mass for the Solemnity of Jan. 25 • Mass for Troops of St. Jesus, with this fi rst issue you back in the summer of 2018, Mary the Mother of God, George, Christ the King, of our diocesan newspaper B mere words of apology are not Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, Mandan, 8:30 a.m. for the calendar year of 2020, Bismarck, 8:30 a.m. enough, even though they are Jan. 28 • Dickinson Catholic Schools I am including the information Jan. 7 • Real Presence Radio Week Mass, Church of important. You have the right to for all Catholics, of the list of interview, 9 a.m. Queen of Peace, 9 a.m. MT expect that the Church will do all those priests, both diocesan and Jan. 11 – 17 • Ad Limina Visit to Rome, • Catholic Charities Board of in its power to see to it that men religious, who have had claims Italy Directors Meeting, 12 p.m. are properly formed and prepared of sexual abuse of a minor made Jan. 19 • Rally for Life, State Capitol Jan. 29 • Bismarck Elementary to be our deacons, priests and against them and these claims Steps, Bismarck, 2 p.m. Catholic Schools Week for some our bishops. You have Mass, Cathedral of the Holy have been substantiated by one Jan. 20 • March for Life Departure the right to expect that they will Spirit, Bismarck, 9 a.m. of our bishops and those who Mass (High School Group), always and everywhere conduct Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, • Know Your Faith assisted them at the time. This is themselves as the faithful public Bismarck, 9:30 a.m. Competition, St. Mary’s not something any of us would ministers of our Church both in Jan. 21 • March for Life Departure Central High School, want or expect of those in whom Bismarck, 10:30 a.m. what they say and in what they Mass (Diocesan Group), such great trust has been placed, do. You have the right to expect Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, Jan. 30 • Bismarck Catholic Schools Bismarck, 3:30 p.m. Week Mass, Cathedral of the Jan. 22 • Catholic Foundation Holy Spirit, Bismarck, 9 a.m. Member Meeting, Center for Jan. 31 • Minot Catholic Schools BISHOP IN ACTION Pastoral Ministry, Bismarck, Week Mass, Bishop Ryan, 10 a.m. 1:30 p.m. • Right to Life Mass, Church of St. Mary, Bismarck, 7 p.m.

Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions for January

Promotion of World Peace We pray that Christians, followers of other religions, and all people of goodwill may promote peace and justice in the world.

Submitted photo SOCIAL MEDIA Bishop Kagan was on-site with the students to off er the blessing of the 12-foot Mary statue that sits 90 feet above ground atop the golden dome of the Our Lady of Victory Chapel at the new St. Mary’s Central High School in Bismarck. Visit our website at www.bismarckdiocese.com Get news, photos, videos and more from around the diocese. Dakota Catholic Action Reporting on Catholic action in western ND since 1941

Publisher: Most Reverend David D. Kagan, D.D., P.A., J.C.L., Bishop of Bismarck Editor: Sonia Mullally, [email protected] Center for Pastoral Ministry - Diocese of Bismarck USPS0011-5770 520 N. Washington Street, PO Box 1137, Bismarck, ND 58501-1137 Phone: 701-222-3035 Fax: 701-222-0269 www.bismarckdiocese.com

The Dakota Catholic Action (0011-5770) is published monthly except July Follow the Diocese on Twitter @BisDiocese by the Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1575, Bismarck, ND 58502-1575. and follow Bishop Kagan @VescovoDDK Periodical postage paid at Bismarck, ND, and additional mailing offi ces. Search “Bismarck Diocese” on YouTube for POSTMASTER: Send address changes to address below. videos from the Church in western N.D. Dakota Catholic Action, PO Box 1137, Bismarck, ND 58501-1137 Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ The Dakota Catholic Action is funded in part by the annual Bismarck Diocese God’s Share Appeal. Get status updates, photos, videos, and links and share them with your friends. JANUARY 2020 Catholic Action Bringing Christ into everyday life Dakota Catholic Action | 3

PUBLICATION OF ALLEGATIONS OF SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

The sexual abuse scandal in the Catholic Church has called removed from ministry and employment. There have been no forth greater accountability and transparency of bishops and substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of a minor alleged to dioceses in the resolution of cases of substantiated claims. have occurred after 1989 – a period of 30 years. While one claim is one too many, the Church acknowledges her In the interest of transparency and accountability, I have brokenness because of the action of a few and recognizes our chosen, as part of our ongoing process of reaching out to the responsibility for healing and reconciliation. diocesan community, to publicly identify those priests who have The Diocese of Bismarck remains committed to reaching out carried out ministry in the Diocese of Bismarck, and against to victims of childhood sexual abuse within our diocese as well as whom there is a substantiated claim of sexual abuse of a minor. doing all that we can to protect our youth from harm. A substantiated claim is an allegation that a priest, deacon, This commitment means that no diocesan clergy member monsignor or bishop sexually abused a minor during his against whom there has been a substantiated allegation of appointment within the Diocese of Bismarck which the diocese sexual abuse of a minor is currently in ministry. Any diocesan determined is likely true. employee or volunteer (clergy or lay) who is found to have a substantiated allegation of sexual abuse of a minor is permanently — Bishop David Kagan

Diocesan Clergy with Substantiated Allegations of Sexual Abuse of a Minor

NAME: EARL J. BECWAR * NAME: JAMES W. POMMIER Ordained: 12/21/1944 Ordained: 6/7/1954 Died: 9/5/1991 Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 12/18/1977 NAME: NORMAN J. DUKART Dismissed from the Clerical State: 12/21/2007 Ordained: 6/2/1967 Died: 1/28/2012 Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 3/20/2002 NAME: JAMES E. REARDON NAME: ROBERT E. FEENEY Ordained: 3/13/1965 Ordained: 5/21/1956 Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 4/16/2002 Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 4/17/2002 Died: 3/11/2007 Died: 4/3/2006 NAME: ARMOUR R. ROBERTS * NAME: THEODORE F. GUSTIN Ordained: 6/4/1955 Ordained: 6/2/1957 Died: 12/8/1989 Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 6/18/2002 NAME: ALOYSIUS P. SIMON Died: 12/27/2006 Ordained: 5/29/1950 NAME: EUGENE J. HASPERT * Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 6/18/1985 Ordained: 5/27/1947 Died: 10/31/1991 Died: 7/3/1979 NAME: LAURENCE R. TALTY NAME: DONALD W. HILL Ordained: 11/30/1945 Ordained: 5/25/1967 Died: 8/22/1989 Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 1/6/2003 NAME: STEVEN R. ZASTOUPIL Died: 11/21/2004 Ordained: 5/20/1961 NAME: MICHAEL T. KRANK Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 3/20/2002 Ordained: 6/2/1952 Died: 7/2/2018 Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 3/11/2004 Died: 11/28/2010 Extern Clergy with Substantiated Allegations of Sexual Abuse of a Minor1. NAME: JOHN H. KUHN NAME: VICTOR J. HEINEN, OSB * Ordained: 11/23/1943 Ordained: 6/6/1936 Died: 3/15/2006 Died: 6/24/1953 NAME: HUGH C. MCGOVERN * NAME: CHARLES MEYER, CPPS Ordained: 7/26/1950 Ordained: 5/14/1931 Died: 7/22/1988 Died: 12/16/1997 NAME: MAURICE MCNEELY NAME: MICHAEL A. SPEGELE, CPPS * Ordained: 6/7/1958 Ordained: 6/14/1941 Incardinated into Diocese of Honolulu: 1982 Died: 3/16/1998 Died: 7/29/2017 NAME: ROBERT WUEST, CPPS * NAME: FREDERIC J. NELSON * Ordained: 4/21/1940 Ordained: 5/29/1950 Died: 3/26/1988 Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 2/20/1984 Died: 8/13/1988 1Extern clergy refers to clergy members who were attached to another NAME: JOHN J. OWENS diocese but served in the Diocese of Bismarck for a period of time. Ordained: 6/4/1960 * Allegations reported after priest was deceased. Faculties for Priestly Ministry Permanently Removed: 4/13/2010

By the numbers… diocesan priests in active ministry of the 22 priests with known the number of third-party audits that 0 with known substantiated claims 20 substantiated claims of abuse of 16 the diocese has participated in since of abuse of a minor a minor are deceased 2003, each of which has confirmed compliance with the Charter

there have been no substantiated the number of years since there was number of adults for which criminal 1989 allegations of sexual abuse of a 30 a known substantiated incident of 15,000 background checks and safe environment minor to have occurred after this sexual abuse of a minor by any clergy training have been conducted by the year of the diocese Dioceses of Bismarck and Fargo since 2003 4 | Dakota Catholic Action JANUARY 2020

Questions and Answers Q: What information are you releasing and the majority of whom are in full communion Q: What has the diocese done to ensure whose names are on this list? with the Church. The vicar general and safety of minors? A: This list contains the names of the clergy the chancellor serve ex officio. The lay A: As a Church, we should hold our clergy, staff members against whom a substantiated members are not employed by the diocese and lay ministers to the highest standards. claim of sexual abuse of a minor has been and they represent professional expertise in The United States Conference of Catholic received by the diocese. The accused might psychology, psychiatry, social work, nursing Bishops (USCCB) adopted the Charter have been a priest of the diocese, a priest and law enforcement. for the Protection of Children and Young of another diocese assigned to work in the The review board advises the bishop in his People—in response to the reports of sexual diocese, or a member of a religious order assessment of allegations of sexual abuse abuse of children and young people by some assigned to ministry in the diocese. and in his determination of ministry for the priests and bishops—as a comprehensive alleged abuser. This mainly takes the form set of procedures originally established by Q: How do you define child sexual abuse? of reviewing the allegation and the report of the USCCB in June 2002. In June 2003, A: It is the subjection of a child by any church the investigator and subsequently providing the diocese produced a manual entitled minister or employee, to any sexual act that recommendations to the bishop. Establishing Bonds of Trust. This manual, is in violation of the North Dakota Century with revisions, contains documents pertinent Code. Q: Is this list complete? to the protection of children and youth A: This list is a complete and accurate including the Diocese of Bismarck Sexual Q: What are the criteria for inclusion on the representation of the substantiated Misconduct Policy and Code of Conduct. list? allegations that have been made to the The charter mandated policies and A: Clergy members are on this list if there diocese against clergy for whom we have protocols regarding the church’s response was a substantiated allegation of child files. The list is based on an extensive file to allegations of sexual abuse of minors sexual abuse against them. This does not review. If substantiated claims are received in by clergy as well as standards for safe necessarily mean they were found guilty the future, the list will be updated. environment programs aimed at preventing of a crime or liable for civil claims. Many of future abuse. No other institution in the allegations received by the diocese are Q: What files were reviewed and what time our country has undergone such a from decades ago and were reported to the period did they cover? comprehensive review and reform. We are diocese many years after the alleged abuse, A: The review included all the individual clergy grateful to victims who called the Church to sometimes after the death of the accused. files going back to when the diocese was exercise greater accountability in this area. created in 1910. At the same time, federal and state laws as Q: How is a substantiated allegation well as government investigations must apply determined? Q: Why are you releasing this list now? equally to all individuals and institutions that A: It is an allegation that a priest, deacon, A: The Diocese of Bismarck takes very seriously serve young people. monsignor or bishop, after considering all its responsibility to be transparent about the available facts, sexually abused a minor sexual misconduct and abuse of minors by Q. What training do seminarians, or new during his appointment within the Diocese anyone within the Church. We are releasing employees, clergy and volunteers of the of Bismarck that the diocese determined is this list as part of that effort toward our diocese receive regarding the diocese’s likely true. commitment to greater transparency. Safe Environment program? A: All adults — employees, volunteers and Q: What should I do if I know of a child that Q: What does “faculties for priestly ministry clergy — are required to undergo Safe is being abused or if I’ve been abused permanently removed” mean for the priest Environment training. Developed around by a representative of the Diocese of or deacon? the USCCB’s Charter for the Protection of Bismarck? A: The status of the priest or deacon changes. Children and Young People, the Diocese of A: If you know of a child who is in immediate He now has the status of a lay person, not a Bismarck’s Safe Environment Program is danger, call 911. Contact the appropriate cleric. He also has other restrictions placed intended to make sure that our children and law enforcement agency, which can help on him that might not apply to other lay young people enrolled in Catholic schools determine your options for making a criminal persons. So, for instance, a priest who has or those who participate in church-related complaint. Complaints should be reported to his priestly faculties permanently removed or activities in our parishes are safe. the social services agency, Child Protective has been dismissed from the clerical state Students sponsored by the diocese Services Department, in the county in which may no longer exercise priestly ministry, who are studying for ordination to the the abuse is alleged to have occurred or call including saying Mass in public, present priesthood to serve the Diocese of the North Dakota Child Protection Program himself as a priest, use the title “Father” Bismarck and candidates for the order at 800-472-2622. or “Reverend,” hold pastoral and teaching of permanent diaconate, are to receive positions in the Church, and receive the Additionally, make a report to the appropriate screening, academic courses income he did as a cleric. diocese. You can report online at: www. and components in their human formation. bismarckdiocese.com/complaintform, or by Q: Is dismissal from the clerical state the Such screening and training will be designed calling these numbers: same thing as what is commonly called to assist the seminarians and deacon Contact the Diocese Chancellor Dale “laicization”? candidates on making moral choices in Eberle, Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1575, accord with church teaching appropriate to A: Removal of priestly faculties or dismissal Bismarck, ND 58502-1575 or call toll-free the order to which they will be ordained. from the clerical state is a permanent penalty 1-877-405-7435 or 701-223-1347 to file a imposed in response to the commission of formal complaint of abuse to the diocese. Q: How does the diocese ensure that priests an ecclesiastical crime. This is what is often Complaint forms should also be available at from other dioceses, ministering here called “laicization” in common parlance, but your parish. either short or long-term, are not a threat? which more properly should be referred to A: Every cleric from another diocese seeking to If you are an adult and have been abused by as a dispensation from the obligations of provide and practice ministry in our diocese a representative of the diocese in the past, the clerical state. Among the consequences is required to present to the bishop (through then you are encouraged to contact the of his new status is the fact that he is not the office of the Chancery) that he is a priest diocese, no matter when the abuse occurred. able to function as a priest or deacon or to or deacon in good standing with no known present himself as one. Q: What happens when an allegation of prior substantiated allegation of sexual abuse child abuse by a member of the clergy is of a minor. received? A: The diocese will conduct an investigation in the manner provided by canon law and SubstantiatedSubstantiated Allegations Allegations of of SexualSexual Abuse ofof a a Minor Minor diocesan policy. The diocese’s investigator by Decadeby Decade of Occurrenceof Occurrence - Diocese- Diocese of of Bismarck Bismarck will seek as much specific detail as possible 30 in the initial meeting with the accuser to determine when and where the abuse took place, whether the alleged perpetrator is still 25 in ministry and any other details. If available, additional individuals that can corroborate the allegation are interviewed, including the 20 accused. If relevant, documents and other evidence is gathered and evaluated. 15 Q: What is the Diocesan Review Board and who is on it? 10 A: The review board has been established by the diocese to assist in reviewing matters pertaining to sexual misconduct. The 5 board consists of at least seven people of outstanding integrity and good judgment, 0 1940s 1950s 1960s 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s 2010s

JANUARY 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 5 Fighting for the cause of life Reviving McKenzie County Right to Life group

By Amanda Evinger state. Getting involved DCA Writer with the auction “Any country that accepts inspired her to dive in abortion is not teaching its people further and work with to love, but to use violence to get MCRL. what they want. That is why the “I realized that there greatest destroyer of love and are so many people in peace is abortion.” McKenzie County that – St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta want to help with pro- During a dark time in her life, life efforts, but they just Watford City resident, McKenzie need to be mobilized,” McCoy, chose a tragic path and McKenzie said. had an abortion. “Therefore, my husband “I knew it was wrong when I and I have been forming was doing it, and I really didn’t an official MCRL board want to do it, but I just didn’t feel and coming up with a like I had any other option,” she strategic plan for the said. “I was deceived into thinking next two years.” it was the best choice to make.” Efforts of local chapter Soon after the decision had Featured in the plan been made, however, McKenzie is a direct service project The MCRL is helping to send “All life is sacred and comes began to feel the traumatic effects called the mobile pregnancy center volunteers to be certified as Teen from God. We who have a voice of it, and desperately searched for for the state of North Dakota. Star teachers. Dr. Lucinda, a bear the responsibility to stand guidance and consolation. Nicknamed the “stork bus,” the primary care doctor at the Watford up for those who do not have a “I began to suffer from a lot of mobile unit organizers will travel City-based McKenzie County voice, such as the handicapped, consequences of my decision— around the state full-time to Health Care System, has recently mentally disabled and unborn. consequences which I still suffer various pregnancy centers and become the first official certified It is our duty. As the psalmist from today,” she said. “When I other locations upon request, Teen Star trainer; she is now able says, ‘Before I formed you in the took an honest look at what I had offering free pregnancy tests and to train other individuals to teach womb, I knew you.’ We also need done, it really began to affect my ultrasounds. The bus will be run in classrooms and parishes. to remember that this is not just life negatively, so I went back to by qualified staff members and In addition to working on a ‘Catholic issue.’ We really need Planned Parenthood for help. volunteers, and will be purchased Teen Star, McKenzie County all Christians to band together Sadly, the only sort of response by McKenzie County Right to Right to Life members are also and work for the cause of life in they gave me was, ‘I am sorry you Life. working with state legislators on our nation, because there is such are so weak.’” “We created a marketing various pro-life issues. The MCRL an attack on human life in all Sinking even further into campaign called ‘Unapologetically group continues to be present at respects, especially on innocent despair, she turned to God’s Pro-Life’ which raises proceeds meetings and welcomed to speak life in the womb.” infinite mercy for help, and He for the mobile pregnancy center at churches in the diocese. They For more information on proved His love for her in amazing by organizing various fundraising have also been working hard on how to volunteer or learn more ways. events and collecting donations awareness by distributing pro-life about the Teen Star program “I reached out to the Catholic from individuals,” McKenzie t-shirts, hats and literature after or the stork bus, please contact Church for help, which was the explained. “We have received Masses and at public events to McKenzie McCoy at 701-269- only place where I truly found a lot of support so far. Bishop garner further awareness of their 8781 or Dr. Lucinda Mundorf healing, counseling and love,” she Kagan took the time to meet with efforts. at 410-370-4582. To donate to said. “The amazing thing is that Jake and I, and he has been very “I very much support their Unapologetically Pro-life, visit their help was all free of charge— helpful to us. Even if we just reach efforts,” said Fr. Russ Kovash, their Facebook page. unlike that of Planned Parenthood. one woman through the mobile Pastor of St. Joseph’s in Williston. I have also found a lot of healing pregnancy center, and change her by being involved with the pro-life heart and her mind, it will all be movement itself.” worth it.” Reviving pro-life ministry In addition to the mobile pregnancy center, MCRL is also PRAY FOR THE PRIESTS, RELIGIOUS, DEACONS Years later, she is now working on the program known choosing the right path, and SERVING OUR DIOCESE AND THOSE IN as “Teen Star,” a sexual education generously opening her heart to program for grades K through 12. FORMATION AND LAY MINISTERS the marvelous workings of God’s “Teen Star includes a Catholic grace by helping to revive the An invitation from the Bismarck-Mandan Serra Club McKenzie County Right to Life component based on Humanae (MCRL) ministry, which has been Vitae and St. John Paul II’s Jan. 1 Fr. John Pfeifer Jan. 18 Deacon John in existence for about 30 years. Theology of the Body,” McKenzie explained. “Although the Catholic Jan. 2 Deacon Steve Young Bachmeier “Having experienced abortion component may not be permitted Jan. 3 Fr. James Kilzer, OSB Jan. 19 All Liturgical Ministers first-hand, I want to do whatever to be presented in the public I can to prevent even one woman Jan. 4 Sr. Denise Ressler, OSB Jan. 20 Br. Llewellyn Kouba, schools, overall the program is from doing what I did to myself, OSB based on looking at the value of Jan. 5 Sr. Stephanie Dolyniuk, and to my child,” she explained. each individual, as well as the OSB Jan. 21 Sr. Eleanor Stockert, “My husband, Jake, and I value of life and the value of OSB want to reach women who are Jan. 6 Sr. Lucille Heidt, OSB fertility.” considering having an abortion, Jan. 7 Fr. Ken Phillips Jan. 22 Seminarian Ben and be there for them. We want With the help of Divine Jan. 8 Seminarian Greg Franchuk to change the argumentative tone Providence, Teen Star will serve as a guiding light to the truth about Hilzendeger Jan. 23 Msgr. Tom Richter of conversation that typically Jan. 24 Deacon Jim Baker surrounds pro-life issues; to steer human sexuality for the young Jan. 9 Deacon Bob Zent people away from fighting about people of North Dakota. Jan. 10 Br. Herman Kim, OSB Jan. 25 Benedictine Monks in it, and instead show true love and “Currently, North Dakota has Jan. 11 All Lay Ministers Bogata, Columbia compassion. We hope to show a sexual education program, Jan. 26 Sr. Susan Lardy, OSB but the public schools rarely Jan. 12 All Seminarians & people the beautiful, beautiful gift Jan. 27 Sr. Janeane Klein, OSB of an unborn child.” use it, so Planned Parenthood Religious in Formation Last fall, McKenzie committed is partnering up with North Jan. 13 Fr. George Pruys Jan. 28 Sr. Ivo Schoch, SSND herself to pro-life work in a more Dakota State University to offer Jan. 14 Deacon Ben Auch Jan. 29 Fr. Bill Ruelle profound way by volunteering sexual education classes for grades K through 12,” McKenzie Jan. 15 Sr. Claire Schmitt, OSB Jan. 30 Deacon Dan Barone at the annual McKenzie County Jan. 31 Abbott Daniel Right to Life auction, which raises noted. “We are hoping to present Jan. 16 Fr. Dave Mormon & significant proceeds for North Teen Star to the school systems Kenya Mission Maloney, OSB Dakota Right to Life as well as as an alternative to Planned Jan. 17 Fr. Dave Richter pregnancy centers around the Parenthood’s program.” 6 | Dakota Catholic Action Catholic Action Bringing Christ into everyday life JANUARY 2020 ‘Greatness Through Virtue’ at the University of Mary Strategic plan focuses on student-athletes By Patti Armstrong premise of this is that it should be DCA Writer happening at every level of sports Sports are not typically seen as at every game—remember why the training grounds for saints, we do this to be better and more yet, that is exactly what St. Pope virtuous even when we lose.” John Paul II often called it. As one As a former high school who was athletic and loved sports, wrestling coach, Richter said he referred to them as a potential that he has witnessed the power “training ground of virtue, a school of using virtue in sports. One of of inner balance and outer control, his former wrestlers who now an introduction to more true and runs marathons, shared with lasting conquests.” Richter that the message to never quit rings in his ears during races. “This message relates to salvation,” Richter said. “You never quit, and you never give up— like going to confession. Pick yourself up and keep going. “ Photo credit: University of Mary The University of Mary hockey team in the locker room saying prayer before a home game. Chaplain for athletes To fully integrate this plan, commissioner of the Northern Sun great success will want to keep Fr. Craig Vasek was hired as a Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC), humility and temperance in mind. full-time chaplain in January as had challenged the presidents of Student reaction part of the athletic department. conference institutions in 2017 James Mason from Nebraska Father Vasek was ordained in to draft an athletic strategic City, Neb., a defensive back on the 2010 in Crookston, Minn. and is plan linked to their respective football team, credited Fr. Vasek a graduate of the Pontifical North university’s strategic plan. The with influencing the team. “He’s Dale Lennon, Director of Athletics American College in Rome. He Greatness Through Virtue is and former head football coach at the such a positive energetic guy,” has worked extensively with the UMary’s response. University of Mary, explained the launch of Mason said. “He’s gotten people the “Greatness Through Virtue” program at Missionaries of Charity of Saint “I’ve always coached on a to be open about their faith. He’s a a news conference this fall. Teresa of Calcutta in Europe, Asia, virtuous level, but the process fun guy to hang out and play pool Africa, as well as North America. of working on identification and The administration and athletic with, so we see that Christianity He also hosts implementation was enlightening,” department at the University of is about more than being staunch an evangelism Lennon said. “It’s not a cookie- Mary recognized that developing and a prude.” ministry cutter approach. Coaches all virtue and the discipline of sports He added, “Father Vasek through a have their own personalities were a natural fit. After two years explained the strategic plan at fall blog and and way to implement this.” He of planning, they rolled out their camp, talking about greatness and podcast called also pointed out that every team “Greatness Through Virtue” being the best you can be. He talks Evangelical is different with strengths and program in August as an extension in a way that’s easy to grasp and Disciple and weaknesses, number of athletes, of their mission of holiness for all. apply to our lives. He’s explaining is a host how long they’ve played together Greatness Through Virtue virtue in a way they that makes for various and the level of their successes. has already become a powerful sense.” shows on Fr. Craig Vasek For instance, a team experiencing force reaching from the athletic Real Presence department and coaches down Radio. to players, recognizing unique Father Vasek was a multi-sport opportunities for greatness. athlete in high school. According NEWS BRIEFS According to President Msgr. to him, this new program simply sexual activity. Ascend is the James Shea, “While the objective Safe Environment Program taps into what sports already nation’s leader in the sexual of the game is to win, the purpose in full compliance provides—discipline and a risk avoidance field. For over of the game is to become what we Each year, the Diocese desire to succeed. “UMary exists a decade, they have helped are created to be.” of Bismarck is required to for the salvation of souls and undergo an audit to ensure thousands of America’s youth The 31-page strategic plan this program engages that in a make smart, forward-thinking recognizes how athletics can compliance with the articles of practical way through sports,” he the United States Conference choices about their sexual naturally develop six virtues: said. “The understanding of virtue behavior, and is committed to magnanimity, humility, prudence, of Catholic Bishop’s Charter for through the Gospel of Jesus Christ the Protection of Children and supporting parents in their role courage, justice and temperance. gives us what we need for spiritual as educators of their children. “Our scholar-athletes at Mary Young People. Bishop David formation.” Pre-course reading is required will be emboldened to pursue Kagan is pleased to announce Father Vasek explained that that is estimated to take 25-40 greatness,” it states, “and so that, for the audit year 2018- the processes of training and hours to complete. There are they will not settle merely for 2019, the Diocese was found to conditioning are ideal places to 9 modules with quizzes that competitive success. They will be in full compliance with the hone virtue. “It’s in the repetition must be completed prior to the realize that to aspire simply to a requirements in the Charter. of doing things over and over that training. The goal is that the championship is not to set a goal it becomes second nature,” he Ascend Sexual Risk certified SRA specialists will to high, but far too low, and that said. “Athletes understand this.” Avoidance course offered increase the overall quality and authentic greatness pursues much Coaches let him know what they Social workers, educators, reach of school and community more.” need, and he has complete access parents, those in the healthcare sexual health education. A greater purpose to the teams, doing team building field and others are tasked with Everyone, including parents, Jerome Richter, Vice-president exercises, talking with them and talking or teaching about sexual policymakers and clergy, are for Public affairs and Mission just hanging out. He also presided health? The Ascend Sexual invited to attend. Advancement, explained that of this fall at an all-athlete Mass Risk Avoidance course is being The certification is good for their 450 athletes from 40 states with a social afterwards to bring offered in Minot to assist people two years and can be renewed by and a few countries, less than half everyone together. with clear guidance on how to online coursework. Ascend will are Catholic. Greatness Through Recently some of the girls from offer evidence-based, relevant provide ongoing consultation Virtue, although imparted through the volleyball team approached Fr. information to others. support for the specialists as a strong Catholic presence, is a Vasek to thank them for teaching This specialist certification is needed. The cost of the course message for everyone regardless of them how to pray in a way deeper being brought to North Dakota is $125 for N.D. residents, $200 denomination. than just asking for things. for the second time by Dakota for non-N.D. residents, and “An athlete’s heart “Ultimately, I’m going help them Hope Clinic. The program will includes breakfast and lunch. automatically recognizes the value win at life,” he said. Ten students be held at the Grand Hotel in A discounted lodging rate of of discipline,” he said. “We are have been so attracted to this Minot on March 10-11. The $79 per night is available at the made for greatness for souls on the message that they have expressed program has been approved for Grand Hotel if reserved by Feb. mat, on the field and in life.” a desire to Fr. Vasek to become 12.5 nursing contact hours, 10.5 20 in the Dakota Hope Clinic Follow-up evaluations Catholic. social work contact hours, and 2 block of rooms. education credits through Minot will measure the program’s Part of the University’s mission For more information or to State University. register, call Dakota Hope at effectiveness. There is also a goal Dale Lennon, Director of Sexual risk avoidance (SRA) is 701-852-4675, or click on the to hold training institutes for other Athletics and former head an educational approach based partner with us tab at www. schools in the future. “We want the football coach at UMary, has on the public health model of dakotahope.org. Registration world to know what we are doing 31 years of coaching under primary prevention to empower deadline is Feb. 18. here,” Richter explained. “It’s a his belt. He explained that the call of every person to virtue. The youth to avoid all the risks of JANUARY 2020 | Catholic Action Bringing Christ into everyday life Dakota Catholic Action 7 Varsity Catholics on Marauder campus Program is part of the Fellowship of Catholic University Students

By Patti Armstrong DCA Writer College athletes are admired and praised for their accomplishments in their sport, yet they face unique pressures from peers, teams and the culture. In addition, long practices and traveling to games can make attending Mass inconvenient and low priority. Despite this, they are typically among the most underserved Catholics on campus. The situation created “a glaring need” according to Thomas Wurtz, founder of Varsity Catholics which was launched in 2007 as part of the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS). Wurtz has served with FOCUS since 2001 after having played a semester of football and then Submitted photo rugby while in college. In a photo taken this fall, University of Mary students have signed on to be part of Varsity Catholic missionaries serving on 146 campuses. He realized that athletes are Varsity Catholics which was launched in 2007 as part of the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) infl uencers, but are often not UMary student-athlete, Gabby “It was like a camp,” she said, was that their identity is not in the actively encouraged in their own Castillo, from Texas, plays “but we were there to show them things of the world, such as sports, faith. Varsity Catholic missionaries volleyball and leads one of the what it means to love one another; Castillo explained. “We told them, seek out athletes and draw them Bible studies. She has attended being present and building ‘You are children of God and that deeper into their faith, through two FOCUS mission trips with relationships. We are made for is number one; that is your true praying together, attending their Varsity Catholic to teach volleyball relationships with God and for value. They can be great through games and developing friendships. in Puerto Rico and the Dominican each other.” their sport just through knowing The goal is to help athletes realize Republic. The main message to the kids that.” that their deepest identity is in Christ and that they can glorify Him in their sport and in their daily lives. “Athletes are the infl uencers of the infl uencers and many will go on to be coaches and will form athletes for our future formators,” Wurtz said. “If we reach college athletes and if they are in love with the Catholic Church, it will have a powerful eff ect on the high school teams.” For the 2019–2020 academic year, FOCUS trained 197 Varsity Catholic missionaries serving on 146 campuses, including the University of Mary. They inspire students to develop virtuous characteristics and deepen their faith through campus events, Bible studies, mentoring and active participation in the sacraments. They also encourage student- athletes to evangelize and share Building Resilience In Your Kids the joy of the Gospel with peers All youth face difficulties, which can range from traumatic losses to everyday disappointments. The ability to cope and through daily interactions and recover - or “bounce back” - after a setback is important to their success. Experts call this “resilience,” and it’s a skill that by hosting Bible studies with can be learned. teammates. Chris Bordiuk, a Varsity What You Can Do Catholic missionary at UMary You can help your children develop resilience by taking the following steps: was on the track and fi eld team at Belmont University in • Model a positive outlook. Children will learn from your ability to bounce back from difficulties. When faced with a Nashville before joining FOCUS. challenge yourself, model an “I can do it” attitude. Remind yourself and your child that the current problem is “I understand what the culture temporary and “things will get better.” • Build confidence. Comment frequently on what your child does well. Point out when he demonstrates qualities of athletics looks like,” he said. such as kindness, persistence, and integrity. “Athletes get very involved in their • Build connections. Create a strong, loving family and encourage your child to make good friends. This will help sport and can lose track of their ensure that she has plenty of support in times of trouble. faith. If they are not trying to make • Encourage goal-setting. Teach children to set realistic goals and work toward them one step at a time. Even small Christ the center of their life, it’s steps can build confidence and resilience. very easy to put faith aside with • See challenges as learning opportunities. Tough times are often when we learn the most. Resist the urge to solve your child’s problem for him—this can send a message that you don’t believe he can handle it. Instead offer love a packed schedule and not even and support, and show faith in his ability to cope. Remind him of times when he has solved problems successfully realize it’s happening.” in the past. There is enough interest on • Teach self-care. Many challenges are easier to face when we eat well and get enough exercise and rest. Self-care each team for them to have their can also mean taking a break from worrying to relax or have some fun. own Bible studies, according to • Help others. Empower your child by giving her opportunities to help out at home or do age-appropriate volunteer work for her school, neighborhood, or place of worship. Bordiuk. He noted that UMary has off ered strong support to FOCUS. *This article was created using information from Prevent Child Abuse America, the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, the Enough Abuse “I love it here,” he said. “It has Campaign, and Stop It Now. an incredible staff . Father Vasek is a great spearhead to reach the For more information on keeping kids safe, students. He has such a fi re for call (701) 323-5626. wanting athletes to get to know Christ.” 8 | Dakota Catholic Action JANUARY 2020 JANUARY 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 9 Ordination Celerations

Dcn. Jim Belohlavek – Dcn. Ross Reiter – Dcn. Mohn Koble Bishop Austin Vetter 11th Bishop of the Diocese of Helena

Photos courtesy of the Diocese of Helena

Bishop Vetter during Solemn Vespers the evening before the installation and ordination Mass.

Bishop Kagan during the laying on of hands during the rite of ordination.

(l-r) Deacon Jim and Jolanta Belohlavek, Deacon Ross and Angela Reiter and Deacon Mohn and Julia Koble with Bishop Kagan following their ordination on Nov. 22.

Deacon Ross Reiter with his hands between Bishop Kagan’s to promise respect and obedience to the bishop and his successors.

The three new deacons are joyously greeted by the diocesan deacons in the gathering space as they exit the ordination Mass. Bishop Vetter blessed those in attendance as he exited the installation and ordination Mass at the Diocese of Helena on Nov. 20.

Deacon Mohn Koble is handed the Book of the Gospels by Bishop Kagan conferring him as a herald of Christ.

Family members of Deacon Ross Reiter brought forth the gifts during Mass.

Deacon Jim Belohlavek with Bishop Kagan at the altar.

Deacon Jim Belohlavek assists Bishop Kagan with incense at the altar. 10 | Dakota Catholic Action JANUARY 2020 Reviving sacred music through organ scholarship program By Amanda Evinger Mary to St. Joseph’s to practice, I DCA Writer often bring the younger kids with A few years ago, Jennifer me. We have quiet prayer time, Sammons shared her daughter and read about the Mass or saints. Mary’s lifelong dream with Lillian They bring their sketch books and Bielinski, a talented musician who draw a stained-glass window, a gives music lessons throughout design on the ceiling, or a hanging our diocese. light fixture... all the while hearing “I told her that Mary had the sacred music Mary plays. It’s always wanted to play the organ,” time to just be in God’s house that Jennifer said. “Soon after that, she we never would have thought to and Fr. Nick Schneider decided to carve out otherwise.” implement the organ scholarship Offering organ scholarship program.” Lillian was first inspired to The program helps prepare bring the organ scholarship young people to bring the program to our diocese because marvelous gift of sacred music she wanted to make a return unto more fully into the life of the God for the blessings she received. Church. “As a young person, I received “Very simply put, the organ organ training through a scholarship provides the gift scholarship program in the Kansas of lessons to those keyboard City Diocese,” Lillian said. “Those musicians interested in learning organ lessons had a huge, positive the art and role of a liturgical impact on my life, opening up a organist,” Lillian said. “During the world of sacred music to me. I lessons, we work on the basics of wanted to bring that same kind of Submitted photo organ technique, hymn playing, Diocesan parishioner Mary Sammons plays the organ at St. Joseph’s Parish in Mandan opportunity to the young people of on one or two Sundays per month. She received lessons through the diocesan organ improvisation and classical the Diocese of Bismarck.” scholarship program. repertoire. In addition to receiving Looking forward, Lillian holds regular lessons, each summer high hopes for what the new our diocese so far, and the way in essential. around 10 to 15 students enjoy a program will bring to our diocese, which it has brought sacred music According to Sacrosanctum week-long series of masterclasses to our blooming young musicians, to life in our midst. Concilium, a document of the with Dr. Beverly Everett, which and to all who worship God “There is this rich tradition Second Vatican Council released culminate in an organ recital.” faithfully in our churches. of organ music in the Church,” in 1963, “The pipe organ is to be Dr. Everett is the Music “The students involved in the he said. “Tradition sometimes held in high esteem in the Latin Director of the Bismarck-Mandan program have already begun earns the misinterpretation of Church, for it is the traditional Symphony Orchestra. playing regularly for Masses in the ‘holding on.’ If we just hold on to musical instrument, the sound Using God-given talents Bismarck/Mandan area parishes,” something, it goes nowhere, and of which can add a wonderful Students like Mary continue to she said. “I hope that the students’ becomes stagnant. Rather, the splendor to the Church’s experience beautiful blessings in careful preparation and service word tradition literally means ceremonies and powerfully lifts their lives because of the organ playing on the organ will elevate ‘handing on.’ It’s not about up people’s minds to God and to scholarship program. the culture of music present in our keeping something, but sharing higher things.” Furthermore, the “It has helped her blossom in parishes, and encourage robust it and allowing it to grow and General Instruction of Roman her faith,” Jennifer said. “She congregational singing for Holy develop.” Missal (no. 393) expresses, looks forward to spending time in Mass. Since the pipe organ is an He has also seen how enriching “Among all other instruments church while she practices. It is instrument uniquely suited to it has been for the talented young which are suitable for divine her way of adoring God. She loves use in the liturgy, it provides a people among us as well. worship, the organ is ‘accorded to play for God—He is the one she renewed sense of sacredness and “Young people enjoy new pride of place’ because of its plays for.” beauty in our communal worship. challenges, especially purposeful capacity to sustain the singing of Mary currently plays the organ I hope the program continues to challenges,” Fr. Schneider said. a large gathered assembly, due for St. Joseph’s Parish in Mandan grow and we are able to reach “They benefit from playing music, to both its size and its ability to on one or two Sundays per month. more parishes throughout the learning music theory, and give ‘resonance to the fullness She savors the opportunity to diocese. Its overall goal is to connecting more deeply with the of human sentiments, from contribute to the reverence of Holy encourage a new generation of Church and Her mysteries. The joy to sadness, from praise to Mass by using the gift that God liturgical musicians to make use of people of God also benefit because lamentation.’” has given to her. ‘The King of Instruments’ for the they can enjoy beautiful organ worship of Our King.” “The organ is my favorite music at Mass. Finally, the Church Pr oTECTING Our Children instrument, and I feel it adds a lot By taking advantage of this benefits. Many parishes have The Diocese of Bismarck is to the Mass,” Mary said. “I have unique opportunity, our young these tremendous instruments firmly committed to the health and always felt connected to other musicians will discover just a little that really incorporate the entire protection of our children, young people and vulnerable adults. With the Catholic musicians who played more about their Catholic faith. building as a resonant chamber. “Playing the organ is a beautiful Having them alive and used is a hope of healing the pain and suffering the organ throughout history. My from sexual abuse in the Catholic favorite composer is Bach, and it art form and an important part benefit. We are truly handing on Church, we encourage anyone who is a great feeling to know that I of our Catholic heritage,” Lillian an ancient practice to the young has suffered from this abuse to please am playing the same music that said. “It challenges young people and keeping a tradition alive.” come forward and let us know. To report allegations of sexual abuse, he played 500 years ago. From a to dedicate their best efforts for Further, implementing organ the liturgy because they have to please contact: Dale Eberle, Chancellor, very young age, Bach dedicated his music at Holy Mass enhances the Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1575, music to the greater glory of God. practice for many hours. It also voices God has given to those who Bismarck, ND 58502-1575. Phone: Every composition he wrote, he involves them intimately with the seek to worship Him with their 701.223.1347 or 1.877.405.7435. Email wrote in the Name of God. He was prayers and participation during whole hearts, minds and souls. the victim assistance coordinator, Mass, and familiarizes them “The organ is the recommended Joyce McDowall, at victimassistance@ very determined to give glory to bismarckdiocese.com. with great composers of sacred instrument in the Catholic God through his music.” Code of Conduct Ultimately, God’s generosity music. The Catholic Church has Church for a reason,” Fr. historically been the patron of The Catholic Church must be knows no bounds. What has been Schneider explained. “It supports exemplary: Clergy, staff, whether a tremendous blessing to Mary composers and organ masters, and sustains the human voice diocesan or parish, and volunteers and her fellow students, has been from Palestrina to Mozart to naturally. In fact, many of the are held accountable for their Faure, and the Bismarck organ pipes are designed specifically behavior. To enable the highest level a blessing to those around them as of accountability, there must be a well. scholarship program is a modern either to mimic or to uphold the continuation of that support for clear and unambiguous definition of “Our whole family has learned voice.” appropriate behavior. To this end, this young artists.” about the treasury of sacred music In fact, even recent Church Code of Conduct is defined for the in the Church by watching Mary Father Nick Schneider, documents reaffirm the long- Diocese of Bismarck and it provides a Director of the Office of Worship cherished, vital tradition of using foundation for implementing effective play, discover and learn,” Jennifer and enforceable standards for all said. “It has had great spiritual for the diocese, has witnessed the organ during the Holy Sacrifice the profound impact that the personnel. View the Code of Conduct benefits for all of us. When I take of Mass, and even speak of it as at http://www.bismarckdiocese.com. scholarship program has had on JANUARY 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 11 Stand where God has planted you Father Mike Schmitz off ered inspirational Prayer Day message By Patti Armstrong DCA Writer “Prayer matters,” Msgr. James Shea told the crowd of approximately 1,800 people who fi lled the McDowell Activity Center for the University of Mary’s Prayer Day on Nov. 20. “It is the most eff ective thing a person can do,” he said. “It is our lifeblood.” Monsignor Shea explained that the day marked four decades of Prayer Day during the University’s 60-year history as a time set aside to refl ect on God and the mission of being a faithful and joyful Catholic. The event featured Fr. Mike Schmitz, director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Duluth and Chaplain for the Newman Center at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. He is also an author and off ers weekly homilies on iTunes and bulldogCatholic.org and appears on regular video messages on “Ascension Presents.” “In the Acts of Apostles,” Msgr. Shea continued, “we see that as the Photos by Jerry Anderson, University of Mary early Apostles moved through the Fr. Mike Schmitz off ered an inspirational Prayer Day message to a large crowd at the University world, no matter what they were of Mary on Nov. 20. threatened with, they wouldn’t stop saying the name of Jesus. I see that same spirit in Fr. Schmitz. He has an eff ervescent love for God.” “So, how do we adult?” Fr. Schmitz asked, while Becoming an adult commiserating that the noun is From the podium, Fr. Schmitz used as a verb these days. “I’d explained that it was his third say the common denominator trip to University of Mary. “And, of having left childhood behind every time, I’m blown away by the is the willingness to take character and culture here,” he responsibility for my life,” he said taking note of the large crowd. said. After a few light-hearted jokes, Prayer Day featured Fr. Mike Schmitz, director of Youth and Young Adult Relationship demands prayer Ministry for the Diocese of Duluth and Chaplain for the Newman Center at the Fr. Schmitz began with a serious University of Minnesota-Duluth. question. “What is it to become Most importantly, according an adult?” He explained that his to him, is taking responsibility parents had installed a default for our spiritual lives and hire to work in a school or parish? Jerusalem. “He was not living his mode to growth in him and his nurturing prayer regardless of our Which ones are training for mission,” Fr. Schmitz said. “David siblings. Being good just as they environment. “Prayer does not competence? sees Bathsheba and had relations were, was understood. Getting help your relationship with God; Competence, he explained, with her. When he stopped living better was expected. prayer is your relationship with begins with what St. Jose Maria his mission, the hero becomes a “You are made by God on God,” Fr. Schmitz said. Escriva, called the heroic minute: villain. He didn’t start by saying I’ll purpose; who you are is good, but Whenever college students tell Getting up when your alarm goes commit adultery; he started by not you are made to be better,” was him that they don’t have time off . “It begins with making a doing what he was supposed to do. the message he grew up with. “Our to pray, he tells them, “You will decision on what time to set it the He was not taking responsibility. attitude should be that the world never have more free time until night before,” Fr. Schmitz said. “If Instead of serving others, he was needs me,” he said. “God has you retire. It’s not that you don’t I stayed up late on purpose, when looking for how people could serve entrusted a task—a mission—to have time, you don’t have faith. am I going to wake up on purpose? him.” Then later, David recognized you.” If you believe that prayer actually Integrity is doing what you said his sinfulness and repented. The fi rst step towards that mattered, you would not treat it as you were going to do.” In closing, Father Schmitz mission, according to Fr. Schmitz, an option.” Going back to King David, challenged everyone to stand is to accept where you are now. After taking responsibility and he noted that when David was where God has planted you, “Sometimes you don’t like having a prayer life, Fr. Schmitz anointed, he was given a purpose. develop a prayer life and be what you see, whether it’s your said, is competence. “How do we He was the one who was going to prepared to fi ght to live your faith appearance or background or what become competent? We train; lead Israel. In 2 Samuel 11, when to become who God created you you got yourself into. But, the we work at practicing our faith. kings went out to fi ght, David to be. sooner you accept the realities of Competence leads to confi dence sent out Joab and stayed back in your life, the sooner you can start and confi dence leads to freedom. moving and default to growth. But, Live in such a way that whenever fi rst, I have to let God love me as I God calls me forward, I am ready am, not as I want to be. to go.” Happy New Year! “God does not love that false Father Schmitz used King person because that person David as an example of one who doesn’t exist,” he said. “He’s practiced competence by tending chosen the real you, the only his father’s sheep and even killing version that exists. Jesus meets us wild beasts to protect them. When where we are at.” Father Schmitz God called him to fi ght Goliath, he used the example of St. Peter who was ready. had a limited love for Jesus in the Likewise, at Franciscan beginning. But, at the end, Peter University of Steubenville in Ohio, had agape—unconditional—love out of 500 theology majors Fr. for Christ and was willing to die Schmitz said that typically only upside down on a cross for that 50 are serving in their parishes. love. So, which ones would you want to 12 | Dakota Catholic Action JANUARY 2020

Spirited contest Continued from page 1 said Richter, who is now Vice- President of Public Aff airs at the University of Mary. He noted schools participate in the state that athletes, artists, musicians, championship. singers and the speech team The format has evolved some all had opportunities for each year. Now, schools hold recognition. “This would give the in-house competitions earlier in kids that love their faith a chance the week to choose the winning to be recognized,” he said. trio to advance to the state The persuasive duo was competition. The prizes now given the go-ahead. They wrote are $100 for the winners of the a 75-question multiple-choice school event and the entire class exam for the entire student body of the in-house winner gets to with questions such as: “What attend the state competition is a crosier? Which one is not a which now rotates to the various mystery of the rosary?” The three schools. State winners get their top scorers would compete on school name engraved on the behalf of their class. traveling trophy which they keep They scrounged up four until the next competition. overhead-projectors for teams At St. Mary’s under Father to reveal answers, put together Josh, a donor made it possible a soundtrack to play music, to buy strobe lights, large black The St. Mary’s Central High School students celebrate victory at the 2019 and bought glow sticks and lights that get attached to the “Know Your Faith” contest held at Shanley in Fargo. beach balls for the crowd to toss ceiling, a smoke machine, in the bleachers during team and sound system, creating a deliberations. Winners would concert-like atmosphere. Mini receive an iPod and the winning concerts have been part of some class would have a fi eld trip to events when a few talented the movies at a later date. There priests have grabbed guitars would be a tug-of-war between and belted out numbers. Since classes and other half-time national speakers are invited entertainment. during Catholic Schools Week, When game day arrived, notable guests such as Leah were they afraid that it might Darrow, Chris Stefanick and fall fl at? “We were not worried,” Jason Evert have participated as Richter said. “We knew our MC’s and judges. students.” And, they did. “It Father Waltz recalled a year was outstanding!” he said. “It when an ancient Roman theme surpassed all expectations. The was chosen for a championship students were wonderful. The hosted at St. Mary’s. “We built winning class carried the student a pillar and huge plaster golden who got the last question right eagles,” he said. The seniors built around the entire gym.” a chariot that was manned by Roman slaves that brought in the High point various school contestants.” Bismarck Diocese priests, (l-r) Fathers Justin Waltz, Nick Schneider, Bill Ruellle and From that time on, the Know Father Waltz dressed like an Josh Waltz, entertained the crowd at the contest in 2018 hosted at Dickinson Trinity Your Faith competition became emperor over his clerics and was High School. the high point of Catholic lowered from the ceiling in a Schools week at St. Mary’s. lift and approached the bishop on Facebook live. it’s rooted in Christ,’” he said. Father Josh Waltz took over as who had a red carpet rolled out “I think one dad, whose kid “It’s rooted in Christ and kids chaplain from 2007-2013 and for him. Bishop Kagan is the was a big football player, put it had the opportunity to laugh kept it going strong. His brother, one who comes up with the fi nal best,” Fr. Waltz said. “He said, and learn and most importantly Fr. Justin Waltz, then chaplain question on which wagers are ‘My kid is more excited about grow in their faith. People do of Bishop Ryan High School in placed. Father Waltz knelt and Know Your Faith than state this all the time for other types Minot, wanted in on all the faith kissed the bishop’s ring and football.’ It’s amazing to hear of competitions, so why not our and fun so he started it there in escorted him to a throne on stage that, but most importantly, it’s faith?” 2010. The winners from both and stated to the students that all about Jesus. I always told the Ruggles explained that the schools then faced off in the God always comes before man. kids, ‘You can have a good time student body rallied around it fi rst state tournament. It soon The enthusiasm keeps and still be virtuous.’” from the start because of the spread to Shanley in Fargo, growing. For the last few Father Waltz noted that culture at St. Mary’s. “Part of Sacred Heart in Grand Forks, years, Real Presence radio has whenever a chaplain leaves, no that has been having a bishop and Trinity in Dickinson, so broadcasted it on the radio and matter who steps in, it continues. willing to put chaplains into the that now, all six Catholic high “It’s not built around a high schools that understand personality, it’s of God,” he said. their role as a shepherd and father of their fl ock,” he said. Sets the tone “The kids love our chaplains. Saint Mary’s is hosting the Jesus was a teacher and the state competition this year on chaplain teaches daily and builds Jan. 29. Father Dominic Bouck relationships with the students.” has been the chaplain there The goal at St. Mary’s is to since 2018. “When I fi rst saw the hire mission-driven, faith- Know Your Faith competition, I fi lled instructors regardless of was blown away,” he said. “The the subjects taught, Ruggles gym had as much energy as a explained. Nurturing the culture rivalry basketball game. The includes reaching parents. For state competition was one of example, keynote speakers for the most intense competitions Catholic Schools Week also gives I had ever been to. The rivalry an evening talk for parents. aspect ratchets up the urgency of “Our entire faculty is now representing your school well.” involved in Know Your Faith,” Reed Ruggles, the current Ruggles said.” It comes to this principal was a freshman religion beautiful culminating point teacher in 2005, that fi rst year. In 2016’s contest at Bishop Ryan in Minot, school chaplains at the time, (l to r) Fr. Tom where the school rallies around “My fi rst impression was, ‘This Grafsgaard, Dickinson Trinity; Fr. Jared Johnson, St. Mary’s Central High School; Fr. their faith and classmates rally Charles LaCroix; Fargo Shanley; Sarah Swaff ord, event emcee; Fr. Justin Waltz and Fr. is a powerful experience because Jadyn Nelson, Bishop Ryan posed with the trophy before the festivities began. around each other.” JANUARY 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 13

fi nal profession on June 29, 1959. at Stephan Indian Mission and OBITUARY Sr. Matthew was schooled the Bishop’s house in Sioux Falls, daily in the Lord’s service for the S.D. In 1969, she returned to cemetery. remainder of her religious life Yankton and worked once more at Sr. Matthew Carol Ann Wehri was born and was known by the work of her the Monastery. She then served as April 18, 1934 to Frank and hands. She learned her ministry housekeeping supervisor at Mount Kathryn (Roether) Wehri of rural by watching others or just by Marty for 24 years. After stepping Wehri, OSB Haymarsh (Hebron), N.D. She doing what needed to be done. down from this supervisory Her hands became profi cient in position, she continued caring Sr. Matthew Wehri, OSB, 85, was the second of four children housekeeping, drape-making, for the fl ower beds and plants at died on Sunday, and attended St. Clement’s laundry, upholstering, growing Mount Marty until her retirement. Nov 24, 2019. Catholic grade school in Hebron and St. Mary’s High School in fl owers and plants, baking, Sr. Matthew is survived by The funeral Richardton, N.D., graduating Christmas decorating, sewing for her Benedictine community, her Mass was in May 1953. Carol Ann entered the Sisters in the Care Center, brother, Frederick (Fritz) (Laura), celebrated Sacred Heart Monastery on Sept. driving for appointments and her sister, Eileen (Larry) Bolstad, Saturday, Nov. 30, 6, 1954. On June 28, 1955, she much more. Her years of service several nieces and a nephew. She 2019 in Bishop became a novice and received the began with sewing in the Vestment was preceded in death by her Marty Memorial name Matthew. She made fi rst Department in Yankton, followed parents and brother, Fr. Francis, Chapel. Burial was Sr. Matthew Wehri, OSB profession on June 29, 1956 and by housekeeping in Lincoln, Neb., OSB. in the Monastery

These men and women are spiritual heroes in the Church. Why? Because they didn’t fl ee evil, but engaged it in battle. When the Church they loved was under attack, they fought back, even to the point of off ering their lives Questions for her. The Body of Christ, the Church, has been seriously wounded by the Evil One with the sex abuse scandal. Don’t leave in retreat, for this would be a victory for the Prince of Darkness, whose goal is to diminish the Light of I was afraid to ask Christ which shines through His Church. Secondly, if one were to leave the Church so as to escape the scandal of FR. GARY BENZ sexual abuse, where would you go? Sadly, all Christian denominations are dealing with this same issue; they just don’t receive as much press coverage as the Catholic Church. Studies have shown that the rate of sexual abuse is the same in all Christian denominations, so leaving the Catholic Church does What should I say to someone who has left the not mean that you will leave this issue behind. A: Church because of the sexual abuse scandal? But, it is more than our churches. We know from our following of this issue in the media that sexual abuse is a problem in schools, sports programs, organizations for youth and, most commonly, in the home. At virtually every “The Church has been shocked to the core by the presence of evil turn, we will face head-on the scourge of sexual abuse, for it is not a Catholic among its members,” said the Archbishop of Westminster, Cardinal problem alone, but a societal problem. Q: Vincent Nichols. How correct his assessment is of the clerical abuse scandal in the life of the Catholic Church. This scandal, We must root it out, which will take human eff ort and, more importantly, caused by abusive clergy and bishops who ignored the problem divine grace. Remain in the Church and be fortifi ed by the grace of the of the abuse, has created countless victims, hurting souls who will spend sacraments, especially the Holy Eucharist, so that you will have the strength their entire lives healing from the pain infl icted upon them. and fortitude to rid the Church and society of sexual abuse. In addition, many Catholics are leaving the Church because of their disgust Since 2001, the Catholic Church has made great strides in the fi ght against with clerical sexual abuse and how it was poorly addressed by the hierarchy. sexual abuse. Studies by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate Some estimates claim that since 2001, 15% of Catholics in the United States (CARA) have shown a sharp decline in incidents of sexual abuse since 2002. have left the Church because of the sex abuse scandal. What do we say to Perhaps, learning from her own mistakes and failings, the Church can off er a them in our hope of bringing them back home to the Church? path out of the societal morass of sexual abuse. With your input and prayers in the life of the Church, help her in this important endeavor. First, ask them to join us in the fi ght against evil; it is our Christian duty. We know that the sexual abuse scandal is the work of the Evil One, because he is Indeed, evil has infected the Church and her members with the sexual continually at war with Christ and His Church. We must fi ght back! abuse scandal, but there is hope. Faithful Catholics are demanding change and calling for long overdue reforms; victims are receiving justice and As Saint Paul reminds us in his Letter to the Ephesians, “Put on the full armor more importantly, healing; and the Church is off ering a way to root out of God, so as to be able to resist the devil’s tactics” (6:11). In the life of the sexual abuse in all facets of society. These are all signs of hope, so don’t be Church, courageous men and women have not left the Church when evil discouraged and leave the Church in frustration. attacked her; no, they fought for Holy Mother Church because of their great love for her. Praise God for holy martyrs like Saints Cecilia, Perpetua and Now, more than ever, victims of abuse and those scandalized by the abuse Felicity and Lawrence, who stood up to the anti-Christian tyranny of pagan need the Church, especially the healing and fortifying power of her greatest Rome; praise God for brave bishops like Saint John Fischer, who was the lone gift—the Holy Eucharist. Perhaps we can all say with Saint Peter, “Lord, to voice among the bishops of England in his resistance to King Henry VIII’s whom shall we go. You have the words of everlasting life” (John 6:68). break with Rome; and praise God for the layman, Blessed Franz Jagerstatter,  Fr. Benz is pastor at St. Mary in New England and St. Elizabeth in Lefor. If and the cleric, Servant of God Father Franz Reinisch, who refused to take you have a question you were afraid to ask, now is the time to ask it! Simply the oath of allegiance to the Nazi regime and were executed for their bold email your question to [email protected] with the “Question Afraid to defi ance. Ask” in the subject line.

UPCOMING EVENTS  Life in the Spirit in Harvey Jan. 10-12  Marriage retreat in Williston Feb. 28-29 this area are Feb. 7-9 in Buff alo, Minn. and March 6-8 Everyone’s invited to a Life in the Spirit Weekend Mark your calendar for a marriage retreat at St. in Fargo. Early registration is highly recommended. Jan. 10-12 at St. Cecilia’s Social Center in Harvey, Joseph’s Church in Williston, Feb. 28-29. Matt and For more information, visit ndwwme.org or contact N.D. Registration begins at 6 p.m., seminar Mindy Dalton, renowned co-founders of Marriage Rob and Angie at 701-347-1998. begins at 7 p.m. Friday and concludes at 3 p.m. Missionaries will be coming to Williston to share Sunday. The seminar is an opportunity to deepen their knowledge and passion for God’s glorious  Women’s Lenten retreat March 14 your personal relationship with the Holy Spirit designs for marriage. Whether your marriage is Area women are invited to the 13th Annual and fellow members of the Body of Christ. The thriving, feels weathered or hopeless, all couples Women’s Simple Lenten Retreat on Saturday, March weekend includes Mass, praise and worship, talks are invited to attend this retreat to get the tools you 14 at the Church of St. Joseph in Mandan. Guest and testimony, discussion groups, Eucharistic need to live marriage according to God’s designs. speaker is Fr. Craig Vasek, chaplain of athletics at the adoration, healing of hurtful memories prayer More details to follow in next month’s issue of the University of Mary. The day begins with morning and more. Register by Jan. 7. Free will off ering. For Dakota Catholic Action. For more information on Mass and includes a talk on healing and forgiveness more information and to register, contact Rosalie the retreat leaders, Matt and Mindy Dalton, go to and a guided healing exercise, confession, at [email protected] or call 324-2706 or the marriagemissionaries.org. adoration and the rosary. A light breakfast and parish offi ce at 324-2144. No-cost housing available lunch (taco bar) will be served. Registration details in St. Cecilia’s Social Center or in private homes with  Search weekends to follow. prior weekend arrangements. Area hotels include: Search for Christian Maturity is a weekend retreat Cobblestone Inn 635-2222 (until Jan. 4); R&R Motel experience sponsored by the Catholic Diocese of  Latin Mass 324-2271; Artos Motel 324-4602. Mention the Life in Bismarck. The weekends are for anyone of high The Extraordinary Form of the Mass, sometimes the Sprit group name for possible block rates. school or college age (at least 15 years old). Search referred to as the traditional Latin Mass, is off ered weekends are held at the Badlands Ministries Camp at Christ the King in Mandan every fourth Sunday  Right to Life Mass Jan. 22 just south of Medora. Upcoming weekends for 2020 of the month at 11:30 a.m. and on the fi rst Friday of On the anniversary of the Roe vs. Wade decision, the are: Jan. 16-19; March 5-8; and April 16-19. More each month at the Church of St. Joseph in Killdeer public is invited to a Right to Life rosary procession information can be found at www.bismarckdiocese. at 7:30 a.m. mountain time. All are welcome to and Mass on Wednesday, Jan. 22 in Bismarck. The com/search1. attend. 4th Degree Knights of Columbus will lead a rosary processing from the doors of CHI St. Alexius to St.  Marriage Encounter Weekends  Rosary for the unborn every Monday Mary’s Church beginning at 6:30 p.m. Bishop Kagan A Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend is a Come pray the rosary for the unborn at Spirit of Life will celebrate Mass at St. Mary’s Church at 7 p.m. private weekend away from the distractions of in Mandan every Monday from 5 to 6:20 p.m. All 15 Refreshments will be served following Mass. daily life for couples in good marriages. Give your decades are prayed, stay for all or as much as you marriage this gift. The next available weekends in able. All are welcome. 14 | Dakota Catholic Action JANUARY 2020 Balancing Church & State CHRISTOPHER DODSON

False notion of the culture of death

The numbers should trouble us. prevent suicides. individual. high rates of suicide—they would The suicide rate in North Dakota is The State of North Dakota With assisted suicide, as argue are not only tragedies, but higher than the national average. has a suicide prevention plan to we have seen with abortion, should be targeted by the state for Between 1996 and 2016 the address the problem as a public we have a partnership of the prevention. They are right. They rate increased 58%, higher than health issue. Part of that plan two ideas whereby if the state seek, however, a carve-out for a any other state. Even accounting addresses removing the stigma says it is allowed under certain particular group of individuals and for our demographics, the rate of associated with talking about circumstances, it is up to the they have been successful in several suicide in North Dakota for white mental health issues. Recently, aff ected individual to decide states and the District of Columbia. middle-aged men and Native Forum Communications dedicated their own reality. Thus, killing an Their purported claim for Americans is higher than the a series of stories on suicide with unborn child is a crime in most the carve-out is the “fact” that national average. Suicide is also an emphasis on doing just that. states, including North Dakota, but the individual is dying. Dying, a signifi cant problem with youth, Missing in the discussion, if a woman voluntarily seeks the however, does not change the veterans and those dealing with however, is that at the same time assistance of a licensed physician nature of the act. Nor can it justify same-sex attractions or gender society is putting greater focus to kill her child by abortion, it is the state abandoning this set of dysphoria. on preventing most suicides it is legal. The contradiction should persons from the task of preventing No one, however, is immune. increasingly accepting of doctor- be obvious. The only reason to suicide. A person near death is still Behavioral health and emotional assisted suicide. criminalize unborn homicide a human being and deserves care, issues can strike anyone, Catholics Proponents of assisted suicide when it is not abortion is because not abandonment. included. have cleverly recast assisted the child is a human being. Yet, Ironically, a few days before For that reason, we need to treat suicide as “aid in dying,” but the advocates of abortion justify killing the Forum published its stories suicide as a preventable public rebranding is nothing more than an unborn child by abortion by on suicide, one of its columnists health issue. The more we know an attempt to masquerade the true claiming that it is solely up to the praised eff orts in Minnesota to and talk about suicide, the more it nature of the act, which is and will mother to decide whether the legalize assisted suicide. People becomes clear that we can tackle always be assisted suicide. child is human. Stranger than the like him want us to believe that the problem with evidence-based One the strangest developments absurd idea that a person’s opinion some people are “diff erent” from strategies. We must also have in contemporary society is a can trump objective science is the everyone else. This is how the the will to invest the necessary combination of legal positivism idea that the state can give the right “culture of death” wins. resources. and self-defi ned reality. Legal to dehumanize in one instance but If you or a loved one is in crisis, For example, research shows positivism is the idea that insist on the existence of a human you can call the National Suicide that most people who attempt whether something is right or in another. Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273- suicide but survive will never again wrong depends on what the law The assisted suicide advocates 8255 (1-800-273-TALK). To help attempt to take their life. We also says. According to this thinking, are taking a page from the someone have immediate access to know that suicide is usually an if the government legalizes a pro-abortion handbook. Most help and a safety plan, see the My3 impulsive act and the impulse will particular act, that act is not only promoters of assisted suicide phone app at my3app.org. for the terminally ill claim they dissipate within fi ve minutes, on legal, but also moral. By “self-  Dodson serves as executive director of the oppose suicide for everyone else. average. Removing easy means of defi ned reality,” I mean the view N.D. Catholic Conference, the offi cial liaison harming oneself during those fi ve of self-autonomy that believes Suicide by youth, persons with mental illness, veterans and for the dioceses of Fargo and Bismarck in mat- minutes and developing strategies the ultimate arbiter of whether ters of public policy. to prevent quick acts will help something is right or wrong is the Native Americans—all groups with

Ag Attitudes JAMES ODERMANN God will always love me (and you)

“Did you know winter starts in 10 days?” see if the words were part of a message meant One phrase that was especially imprinted by a friendly face queried in mid-December as I for someone else. (The grandchildren had my School Sisters of Notre Dame teachers was, waited in line. It was the levity that was needed been visiting.) I pondered this for a minute “God always was, always is and always will while waiting to purchase the needed supplies and scrapped the idea. I was going to relish the be . . . God is in everything.” to combat the cold. Everybody in the store message and say “thank you.” Yes, God is everywhere and God leaves me (except the checkout clerks) looked about six Obviously, the “thank you” would begin messages all the time, like notes that read “I sizes bigger in winter clothes, but generally with my wife, recalling the multiple decades will always love you.” As I refl ected further, happiness was refl ected in the chatter. of joys and challenges of life on the ranch. Yet, God, in his infi nite mercy, loves me. Do I return I thought back to earlier in the day when, the “thank you” would need to go far beyond a the love? Do I say “thank you” to God for his after fi nishing the morning chores, I removed simple verbal exchange. The “thank you” for me unconditional acceptance of me? Do I seek the various layers of clothes and found my way was a refl ection of God’s way of telling me the God’s forgiveness? into the offi ce. I plopped myself down and, on a same thing: “I will always love you!” The Christmas season is such a great time to notepad next to my computer, was the message: There are so many moments in life when refl ect on this message. God sent Jesus to save “I will always love you!” God comes to me. Sometimes, the message is the world. I need to tell God “I will always love It was my wife’s handwriting. I smiled as one that I don’t like to hear, a message that is you!” Care to join me? I read and reread the message. I rhetorically designed to correct my ideas, my attitude, my  Odermann lives with his wife, Leona, on the family farm in wondered if those fi ve words were intended for patience, my willingness to listen. Billings County. They are members of the Church of St. Patrick me. I refl ected on my days as a youngster, when in Dickinson and assist with eucharistic celebrations there as Of course, I could just fl at out ask, which I had to memorize the Baltimore Catechism well as at the Churches of St. Bernard (Belfi eld) and St. Mary would bring an end to my curiosity. Or, I could (yes that was required study back in the day). (Medora). JANUARY 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 15 Making Sense out of Bioethics FR. TAD PACHOLCZYK Medicine and a sense of the sacred

As clergy, we touch upon very holy realities and bishops, end up losing touch with this Shortly thereafter, her stillborn son was when we baptize, consecrate the Eucharist, give “sacred dimension.” delivered: “I saw his perfect little face for the absolution to sinners, or anoint the sick. These An article in the Irish Times, written by a fi rst time. I felt that same post-birth relief and special moments engage divine grace in deep physician in the run-up to the 2018 abortion elation as I had after the birth of my other two and important ways in the lives of those to referendum in Ireland, exemplifi ed this loss children. The midwife wrapped him in a towel whom we minister. and profanation of medicine’s sacredness. and I held him close. I felt at complete peace In the midst of these sacred realities, we Following a routine 20-week ultrasound of with my decision and just sat holding and remain, nonetheless, very human and fallible her third pregnancy, Dr. Caroline McCarthy staring at my beautiful son. In the morning, instruments. I remember one time when a described her sadness at learning that her baby the midwife helped us dress John. We spent bishop contritely divulged in my presence that “had no kidneys and as a result there was no the day holding and looking at him and taking during the consecration that morning all he amniotic fl uid. His lungs could not develop photographs.” could think about was a good cup of hot coff ee. properly without the fl uid, but he wouldn’t It’s hard to miss the jolting unseemliness of We clergy need to attend carefully to the need his lungs or his kidneys until after birth, the family’s taking photos of their dead child graced realities we regularly handle lest so the pregnancy would probably carry to whose life they had just ended. Dr. McCarthy’s we end up squandering or losing our sense term.” She was told she had two options: actions cannot be squared with her vocation of the sacred. The old adage reminds us: “Carry my baby to term and he would either be as a mother or with her sacred calling as a familiarity breeds contempt. An elderly priest born dead or die shortly after birth or travel to physician to “do no harm.” That sacred calling and professor in Rome used to urge us as the UK to end the pregnancy.” translates into helping all those born with birth seminarians: “Seek the grace to celebrate each After a few days spent in a haze of panic defects or affl icted by disease, without ever Holy Mass as if it were your fi rst Mass, your and tears, Dr. McCarthy and her husband imposing death penalties onto them. Ahead of last Mass, and your only Mass.” Michael took a fl ight out of Ireland to undergo all others, physicians are tasked with grasping Similar challenges exist in the world of a “compassionate induction” of labor at this key truth. medicine. Physicians who work with frail and Liverpool Women’s Hospital. The terminology Hippocrates possessed unusual wisdom and vulnerable human beings every day must be brought to mind an astute observation a foresight to codify these real dangers for the attentive when it comes to the sacredness of friend had once made: “Beware of any medical soul of the medical professional millennia ago. their subjects and their profession. procedure with the word ‘compassion’ in its As we witness an unprecedented collapse of One of the lesser-known lines from the name; it often conceals wrongdoing.” the sense of the sacred within the world of the famous Hippocratic Oath has always intrigued When the hospital clerk arrived to get their healing arts today, we must assiduously pray me: “In purity and holiness I will guard my life informed consent signature, the procedure for those who have turned their backs on that and my art.” Doctors face a range of unique listed on the form was: “Feticide termination of ancient and time-tested Oath, and vigorously temptations that the Oath enumerates: it pregnancy.” Feticide is a medical term referring support those fi ghting to uphold its tenets counsels them to swear off “all mischief and in to the killing of a human, in this case during an within medicine’s hallowed hallways. particular of sexual relations with both female early stage of development — “fetal homicide.” and male [patients]” as well as all abortions After Dr. McCarthy’s labor was induced, a  Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his doctorate and acts of euthanasia. To engage in any of large-gauge needle (termed a “catheter” in in neuroscience from Yale and did post-doctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest of the diocese of Fall River, MA, and these activities is to lose one’s way, forswearing the article) was used for the feticide; it passed serves as the Director of Education at The National Catholic the sacredness of the medical profession’s through her abdomen and uterus into her Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. He also serves as a professor calling. baby’s heart and potassium chloride was of bioethics at the University of Mary in Bismarck. See www. ncbcenter.org Yet some doctors, not unlike some priests injected to stop its beating.

Family Matters TARA BROOKE

One last family matters

The new year is upon us and to run here, there and everywhere. ending. Our children are older family must come fi rst. Thus, it is we often start to think about ways Once home, we tend to let down now and not as fl exible as they time that I focus on my family and to improve ourselves, our lives, our guard and certainly aren’t as once were, with greater demands step away from this job. our families and our peace. I am kind to each other as we should be, in terms of schedules and basic I pray that the bishop fi nds no diff erent. Each year, I hope for as Jesus calls us to be. Tempers needs. I always say, “Bigger kids, and hires someone who will love an even better year than the one are shorter and patience runs bigger issues!” Something in our this job as much as I have, yet can before. thin. We started refl ecting on the life had to give way; our four give the offi ce everything that it My prayer for 2020 is that each word kindness at the beginning (almost fi ve, through adoption) deserves. Please know of my love of our readers makes some small of November and have already children deserve more balance and and admiration for the amazing commitment to focus on their embarked on what it means to consistency. families throughout the great family and be intentionally present choose kindness in our house. Thus, through much prayer and Diocese of Bismarck. Thank you to family members this coming The Brooke family has put a discernment I have come to know for your unwavering trust in me year. lot of thought and prayers into that I am not the best person for as I have worked with you and Each year, the Brooke family why we had let unkind behaviors this offi ce. The director of family your families, it is now time to chooses a word and we try to live emerge in our house. One of those life, a job I absolutely love and minister to mine. Take good care by that word for the year (and reasons is the cause for this article. adore, is not conducive to the and remember to choose kindness beyond). We’ve used words such The Brooke family runs better with needs of my family. If I do my job in 2020! routine and stability. My husband, the justice it deserves, my family as joy, simplify and health in  Brooke served as the Director of the Dan’s job has shifted and become suff ers. If I give my family the time recent years. Our word for 2020 is diocesan Offi ce of Family Ministry that more demanding; and with my they deserve, this job will suff er. kindness. provides resources for marriage and family job, the needs of family ministry As any good director of family Throughout the course of a life, as well as respect life and natural family throughout the diocese are never ministry would recognize, I know week, members of our family seem planning. 16 | Dakota Catholic Action JANUARY 2020

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