SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:23 AM Page 1 Serving the People of the Archdiocese of City Volume 35, Number 14 * July 27, 2008 ’s Prayers Offered At Okarche Gravesite of Father

By Cara Koenig The Sooner Catholic OKARCHE — On a clear and sunny July 1, Archbishop Beltran and Edward Slatery of Tulsa and of Little Rock gathered at the site of Father Stanley Rother’s grave. The three held a prayer vigil for the Oklahoma missionary killed in on July 28, 1981. Prayers were said for Father Rother as well as for the souls of the faithfully departed and a prayer asking for the Church to recognize Father Rother as a and . Following the prayer vigil, Archbishop Beltran pointed to the stones that people have begun to place around Father Rother’s headstone. Each stone carries a message asking for Father Rother’s prayers. All three bishops took a moment to read a few of the intentions, many were deeply moving. Some stones asked for prayers for their families or a loved one’s health. Many intentions were for the world, the end of abortion or the end to war. Some were more personal, one read, “I am lonely.” Another asked for help forgiving others. The three bishops then made the short drive to Holy Trinity Church, the home parish of Father Rother. Again prayers were said for Father Rother at a plaque dedicated to him that hangs on the wall. Identical plaques hang in Our Lady’s Cathedral as well as the church in Santiago Atitlan. This was Bishop Slattery’s first visit to Holy Trinity. He was given a tour and visited the baptismal font where more than 3,000 have taken place, including that of Father Stanley Rother.

Archbishop Beltran prays with Bishop Slattery and Bishop Taylor at the grave of Father Stanley Rother. At left are the prayer stones people have placed at the gravesite. Sooner Catholic Photos/Cara Koenig

Inside Guymon Parish Catholic Youth Celebrates 100th Have Great Time Anniversary With Playing and , Festivities Praying at Camp 11 OLOG 10 SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:23 AM Page 2

2 Sooner Catholic ● July 27, 2008

The Good News Sooner Catholic ... Patriotism Most Reverend Eusebius J. Beltran On that great national holiday, for his acts, choices and decisions. Archbishop of Independence Day, the Fourth of July 7. The need (obligation) of the We should pray daily the Oklahoma City Philharmonic government to protect human life. Publisher Orchestra performed a concert in the The contrast of those Fourth of for our park in Yukon. The patriotic music July words and the actual situation in country and Ray Dyer was planned to lead into an hour-long our country today flashed at me more its leaders. fireworks display. Between the concert strikingly than the spectacular fire- Editor and the fireworks, a series of quota- works before me. We must tions from presidents and other public When these truths were first recognize the Cara Koenig historic persons were narrated. spoken, they were stated as part of Layout/Design/ Those words of history were solemnly the vision and hope of our nation. obligation Photographer accompanied by appropriate music as They were proclaimed sincerely by and privilege they confirmed what we already know Archbishop presidents and other national leaders we have to Beltran and cherish. Those quotations served and patriots. Today, they constitute Mauro Yanez as beautiful reminders of the truths vote. Our voting should our heritage which we must preserve Hispanic Editor upon which our country was founded. and defend if we wish to remain the always be guided by our Our great country was established on land of the free. belief in God and the firm principles which shaped us in the While change is a necessary part Ammanda McCabe land of the free. of life and history, it is most unfortu- recognition of the dignity Staff nate when the change is negative. The basic principles I heard were: of the human person. Change is good when it leads to 7501 Northwest Expressway 1. A belief in a good and gracious positive development. It is obvious of the human being is lost and inalien- Oklahoma City, OK 73132 God who created and sustains the today that many of the changes we are able rights become arbitrary. universe. experiencing are actually threats to (405) 721-1810 Fax: (405) 721-5210 2. A recognition of the God-given our freedom. They are destructive to As a church community, we e-mail: [email protected] dignity of the human person. believe in God and are grateful for all those principles stated above. Mailing Address 3. An acknowledgement that the gifts and blessings He has given Although many, many Americans P.O. Box 32180 among the inalienable rights given to still profess a belief in God, there us. We must express that gratitude in human beings are life, liberty and the are increasing numbers who have prayer and action. We should pray Oklahoma City, OK 73123 pursuit of happiness. These funda- abandoned faith and the practice of daily for our country and its leaders. mental rights come from God and not religion. Many have substituted false We must recognize the obligation and Visit us online through the from the state. practices or secular attitudes. When privilege we have to vote. Our voting Archdiocesan Web Page at 4. The centrality of freedom the concept of the One, True God, should always be guided by our belief www.catharchdioceseokc.org. (liberty) in the human condition. Creator and Redeemer, is ejected from in God and the recognition of the 5. The willingness of patriots to dignity of the human person. the public square, true respect for the The Sooner Catholic (USPS 066-910) is sacrifice to defend the liberty of our dignity of the human person is lost. If What I learned in elementary published biweekly except for once in July land. someone doesn’t believe in God, he school many years ago remains true and twice in December by the Archdiocese 6. The existence of good and evil cannot see the Image of God in people. today: Be a good Catholic and you will of Oklahoma City. and the responsibility of each person With that perspective, the true dignity be a good American.

The newspaper is not responsible for Seminary Burses unsolicited material.

A $300 donation was made to the A $100 donation was made to the Bishop Stephen A. Leven Copyright © 2008 Sooner Catholic Father Stanley Rother Seminary Father Beltran Seminary Seminary Burse Burse by Holy Name Church, Burse by St. Eugene Church, OKC. $59,627.73 Chickasha. Subscription rate: $20 per year for all A $200 donation was made to the Father John A. Petuskey who are not members of the Father Joseph Beltran Seminary A $50 donation was made to the Seminary Burse Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Burse in memory of Jerry Cebulski. Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma Father Stanley Rother Seminary $11,849.99 City, OK 73125. Burse by the Carmelite Sisters of St. Father Joseph Beltran Therese. Seminary Burse Father Clement E. Pribil POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Sooner Catholic, P.O. Box $80,118.16 Seminary Burse 32180, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. A $300 donation was made to the $5,251.42 Father Stanley Rother Seminary Father Denis Blackledge Burse by Joe Kretchmar Jr. Seminary Burse $8,336.95 Father Stanley Rother Seminary Burse A $30 donation was made to the $180,201.99 Father Stanley Rother Seminary Father Wade Darnall Burse in memory of George Rund Seminary Burse from Gerald and Elizabeth Ivie and $10,545.00 Archbishop Edward and Agnes Kraus. Seminary Burse Father Bernard J. Havlik $185,945.00 Seminary Burse A $200 donation was made to the $26,610.01 Father Joseph Beltran Seminary Father Gerald Ucker The Sooner Catholic is Burse by Mother of Sorrows Church, Father James A. Kastner Seminary Burse supported through the Elgin. Seminary Burse $8,570.00 Archdiocesan Development Fund. $9,919.99 Totals as of 6/30/2008 SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:23 AM Page 3

July 27, 2008 ● Sooner Catholic 3 Benedictine Priest Joins Father Rother Effort

By Ray Dyer from Ana Romero in the Archdiocesan The Sooner Catholic Office of Hispanic Ministry for the Spanish translation. The translation to Father Albert Bruecken, OSB, Tzutuhil is done in Guatemala. pauses from shuffling through a pile of papers to answer the question posed to Father Bruecken said there is a him. How was it he came to be involved great lesson for Catholics in the life and with the canonization effort of Father death of Father Stanley Rother. He Stanley Rother? called him a true role model. “The hand of God, I would say,” “Was he squeaky clean, no,” Father Father Bruecken said. Bruecken said. “I think his brothers The Benedictine priest, normally and sisters would attest he was a bit found teaching university math and rambunctious when he was young, science to seminarians at Conception which is certainly normal. He even was Abbey in Conception, Mo., has been in known to have a bit of a temper at Oklahoma since mid-June. He was times.” But Father Bruecken said summoned to help with the cause of Father Rother’s parents were serious Father Rother. But he explains it took a people and serious about their faith and that was something they passed on series of events to make this possible. Father Albert Bruecken, OSB, signs his oath as Archbishop Beltran looks on to their children. He described Father On June 16, Father Bruecken was during Mass on June 16. made a part of the canonization effort Rother as a very quiet person. when Archbishop Beltran officially stroke. But when his mother died on spend the summer days interviewing “I think Oklahomans can feel swore him in as “Episcopal Delegate in Holy Saturday, it meant he now had people who knew Father Stanley proud,” Father Bruecken said. “Not the Cause of and little on his plate for the summer. Rother, both as a priest and before he that the way he died wasn’t awful, but Canonization of Reverend Stanley So, when Archbishop Beltran called was ordained. He is bound by confiden- how he lived and how he died.” He said Francis Rother, regarding his life, Conception Abbey seeking assistance tiality and can’t give details concerning Father Rother’s life and death are virtues and reputation of sanctity.” The with the Father Rother canonization the interviews, but he did say it’s obvi- wonderful examples of living one’s Benedictine priest replaces Father effort, Father Bruecken was the logical ous Father Stanley Rother was a man faith. Anthony Taylor, who was consecrated choice. of great love, strength and compassion. An avid baseball and sports fan, bishop of the Diocese of Little Rock on “I can blame Mom for getting me “Father Rother knew the great Father Bruecken said it’s important the June 5. into this,” he said with a laugh. danger he was in and still he was will- Church and society have people like Ordained in 1977, Father Bruecken Father Bruecken is well versed in ing to remain in Guatemala and Father Rother, “people who are willing was raised in Des Moines, Iowa, one of Father Rother’s life and death. Over minister to his people,” Father to die for what they believe in. five children. The family home was the years he has instructed a number of Bruecken said. “He was not a political “It’s important for Oklahomans inside the city limits but open spaces Oklahoma seminarians, now archdioce- person; he was simply doing his as and people in the to have were plentiful. A neighbor raised a san priests, at Conception. Father a priest.” role models other than the variety of vegetables on an acre near Edward J. Weisenburger, V.G., and As Father Bruecken holds up a 2- Jordans, the Tiger Woods and the their home. While Father Bruecken Father Tim Luschen are two that inch-thick manila folder, it’s equally Mickey Mantles,” Father Bruecken didn’t grow up a farm kid as did Father immediately come to his memory. obvious how in-depth the interview said. Nothing against these celebrities, Stanley Rother in Okarche, he did see He calls Father Rother’s 1981 process can be. but Father Bruecken said, people such up close some of what goes into plant- martyrdom in Guatemala “a worthy “This is one interview,” Father said. as Father Rother, and ing and harvesting food from the earth. cause” for canonization and hopes the “It was translated into three languages, John Paul II stand for something more Father Bruecken’s abbey had Oklahoma-born priest will indeed one English, Spanish and Tzutuhil.” Father meaningful than celebrity. That some- cleared his schedule for the summer in day be proclaimed a saint by the Bruecken does not speak Spanish flu- thing he’s talking about is the courage order to help care for his 89-year-old . ently. “I can say Mass in Spanish, but to live a life of faith, even if it means mother, who had suffered a serious It is Father Bruecken’s duty to that’s about it.” He relies on support losing one’s life. Appeal 2008 Before this up- tinue or are beginning their personal date of current journey of growth in God’s love. They progress, let us first are sharing their gifts and helping His revisit the theme “Open family. Almost 3,000 of that number Your Heart to God’s Love.” Have you are new participants who have ac- begun your personal journey through cepted the inspiration of the Holy life with Him at your side? Have you Spirit to play a special role in God’s told God you love Him, lately? How can family. Together all of these families we not love the “One” who has given so and individuals have pledged a total of much because of His love for us? Peace $3,084,449. Of that amount, $2,086,508 and happiness will come into our life as has been paid as of July 15, 2008. our personal relationship with God Once again, the staff of the ADF Task Force members Peggy Dooley and Harry Kocurek review the new Adult grows and matures. A relationship so Appeal would like to thank everyone Faith Formation resource binder. The binder includes information on speakers, great that we will find ourselves shar- who has contributed to the Arch- short courses and retreat/spirituality offerings, available in both English and ing God’s love and gifts in many diocesan Development Fund. Your con- Spanish, and has other materials to support adult education in the parish. Every different ways. These changes will not tinuing support throughout the year is parish is invited to send two representatives to the first presentation of this happen suddenly. It will be a gradual extremely important to the many resource. This event will take place on Aug. 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. process as we learn to open up, to accept ministries and the operations of this at Bishop McGuinness High School, 801 NW 50th, OKC. The presentation will be His love, to bring Him into our daily life, Archdiocese. If you are still searching offered in English and Spanish. Archbishop Beltran will speak. Each parish will and to rely on His help to make for a way to share your gifts and would receive two copies of the resource binder. Information and registration forms decisions about how to live our life. like to make a pledge, please call the have been faxed to every parish. Ask your or catechetical leader for more During this year’s appeal, nearly ADF Office and we will assist you in information. You may register by calling the Office of Religious Education, (405) 10,400 families and individuals con- your donation, (405) 721-5651. 721-1415, or the Office of Pastoral Ministry, (405) 721-4208. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:23 AM Page 4

4 Sooner Catholic ● July 27, 2008 : Paul’s World Not So Different Than Ours VATICAN CITY, (Zenit.org). — Benedict XVI says the world and culture in which St. Paul lived and preached is not so different from that of today. The pope affirmed this in a reflection on St. Paul at the general audience held in St. Peter’s Square. The pontiff explained that today’s is the first in a series of teachings for the newly in- augurated Pauline Jubilee Year, which runs through June 29, 2009. “In this, our first meeting,” he said, “I would like to pause to consider the environment in which he lived and worked. Such a topic would seem to take us far from our time, given that we must insert our- selves in the world of 2,000 years ago. And yet, this is only apparently and partly true, because it can be verified that in many ways, the socio-cultural environment of today is not so different than that of back then.” Benedict XVI proposed that Paul would have been evaluated by a “double attitude” in regard to his Jewish culture: There were those who admired the Jews for the way their beliefs and lifestyles set them apart from the environment, and those who disdained them for this. “Paul himself was the object of this double, contrasting evaluation,” the pope said. And yet, he added, the “particularity of the Jewish culture and religion easily found a place with- in a reality as all-pervasive as the Roman Empire. More difficult and trying was the position of the group of those Jews and Gentiles who adhered in faith to the person of Jesus of Nazareth, insofar as St. Paul they were distinguished both from Judaism and the time and also influenced, though marginally, prevailing paganism.” Christianity.” Pauline Year Will Have Three cultures “When Paul writes to the Philippians: ‘Whatever The pontiff noted two other factors that affected is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, what- Ecumenical Dimension Paul’s situation. ever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, First, he mentioned “the Greek, or rather the if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy VATICAN CITY, (Zenit.org). — Benedict XVI has Hellenistic culture, which after Alexander the Great of praise, think about these things,’ he does no more declared June 2008-June 2009 the year of St. Paul in became the common patrimony at least of the than take up a strictly humanist concept proper to celebration of the 2,000th anniversary of the saint’s Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, though that philosophical wisdom,” the pope said. birth. integrating within itself many elements of peoples He continued: “In Paul’s time, there was also a The Holy Father explained during his homily: traditionally regarded as barbarians.” crisis of the traditional religion, at least in its mytho- “This ‘Pauline Year’ will take place in a special way in And second, “the political-administrative logical and also civic aspects. After Lucretius, already , where for 2,000 years under the papal of structure of the Roman Empire, which guaranteed a century earlier, had controversially stated that this basilica, lies the tomb that according to experts peace and stability from Britain to southern Egypt, ‘religion has led to so many misdeeds,’ a philosopher and undisputed tradition has conserved the remains unifying a territory of a dimension never before seen. such as Seneca, going well beyond any external rit- of the apostle Paul.” In this space, one could move with sufficient liberty ualism, taught that ‘God is close to you, he is with The pontiff said: “In the papal basilica and and security, enjoying among other things an extra- you, he is within you.’ Benedictine abbey attached to it, there can take place ordinary road system, and finding in every point of “Similarly,when Paul addressed an auditorium of a series of liturgical, cultural and ecumenical events, arrival, basic cultural characteristics that, without Epicurean philosophers in the Areopagus in Athens, as well as various pastoral and social initiatives, all of detriment to local values, represented in any case a he says literally that ‘God does not live in shrines them inspired by Pauline spirituality. common fabric of unification. made by man ... but in him we live and move and “Special attention can also be given to pilgrims Hence, the Holy Father affirmed: “The universal- have our being.’ who from various places will want to go to the tomb istic vision typical of St. Paul’s personality, at least of “With this, he certainly echoes the Jewish faith in of the Apostle in a penitential way in order to find the Christian Paul after the event on the road to one God that cannot be represented in anthropomor- spiritual benefits. Damascus, certainly owes its basic impetus to faith in phic terms, but he also follows a religious line with “Meetings for study will be promoted and there Jesus Christ, inasmuch as the figure of the Risen One which his listeners were familiar.” will be special publications on Pauline texts, to pro- goes beyond that of any particularistic restriction. Furthermore, the Holy Father noted, it was not mote the immense richness of the teaching contained […] Yet, the historical-cultural situation of his time uncommon for pagan intellectuals of the time to in them, true patrimony of humanity redeemed by and environment also influenced his choices and worship not in the official temples of the city, but in Christ. commitment. private places. In this way, Christian worship in Benedict XVI explained that this year must have “Paul has been described as a “man of three homes “must have seemed to their contemporaries as an important “ecumenical dimension.” cultures,” taking into account his Jewish origin, a simple variation of this more intimate religious “The Apostle of the Gentiles, who dedicated him- Greek language, and his prerogative of “civis practice,” he said. self to the spreading of the good news to all peoples, romanus,” as attested also by his name of Latin Finally, the pope affirmed that “all of us today spent himself for the unity and harmony of all origin.” have much to learn” from St. Paul. Christians,” the pope said. Stoics “This is the objective of the Pauline Year,” he said, “May he guide us and protect us in this bimil- The bishop of Rome then focused on another “to learn the faith from him, to learn from him who lenary celebration,” he added, “helping us to advance element of the Pauline world that affected the Christ is, to learn, in the end, the path for an upright in the humble and sincere search for the full unity of apostle: “Stoic philosophy, which prevailed in Paul’s life.” all the members of the mystical body of Christ.” SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:24 AM Page 5

July 27, 2008 ● Sooner Catholic 5 Applications Now Being Accepted Diaconate to Start New Formation Class The office of the Permanent with various functions within the Diaconate for the Archdiocese of parish and diocese. Oklahoma City will start a Deacons do not take the new deacon formation class place of a priest. Deacons are in the fall of 2009. If you ordained to serve the people feel that you have a call- of the archdiocese. ing to and The deacon receives believe that you are the sacrament of holy called to serve beyond orders but in most cases, your current role within does not function in the your parish, you may order as his full-time occu- want to explore the pation. A deacon must permanent diaconate. support himself and his There are still many mis- family in a normal job. He conceptions about the role of a offers service as a deacon, by deacon in the Church. A deacon’s dedicating 10 to 12 hours each primary role is a ministry of service. week to the work of the church. Today in our Archdiocese we have more than Are you a person who feels the call to serve 80 active deacons. They serve as prison chap- the universal church in the Archdiocese of lains, hospital chaplains, parish administrators, Oklahoma City? If you are a male between the directors of religious education, directors of ages of 35 and 60, a member of the Roman inquiry for the Catholic faith (RCIA) and work Catholic Church for at least five years, are in many areas of charity within the Arch- actively serving in your parish and are either diocese. Deacons do marriage and single or have been in your marriage for at least preparation, baptize people, serve as the five years, you may have the calling to be a Church’s witness to Catholic marriages, teach deacon. To learn more about the diaconate, call Father Joe Uhen of Santisimo Sacramento Parish, adult education, plan and officiate at funerals, the director, Deacon Max Schwarz, at (405) 263- Piura, Peru, and two Peruvian missionaries, Freddy preside at communion services in the absence of 4760. The process of application takes about a Cornejo and Ginet Ambulay, will visit St. John the a priest, take communion to and visit shut-ins year. Applications for the next class will be Baptist Catholic Church in Edmond on Aug. 16-17. The Peru Mission Board will host a fiesta dinner and nursing home residents, and generally help accepted until Aug. 31, 2008. following the 5:30 p.m. Mass on Sunday, Aug. 17. Mustang Parish Celebrates Anniversary

By Carolyn Cole covered picnic facility, complete MUSTANG — As part of its with lighting 25th anniversary celebration, Holy and ceiling fans. Spirit Catholic Church invited the The pavilion was entire town of Mustang to a free designed so community-wide pancake breakfast future leader- in honor of the congregation’s silver anniversary. ship could en- Parishioners served up pan- close the facility cakes, french toast, sausage and to hold class- ham, along with juices and coffee at rooms or a the church, 1100 N. Sara Road. fellowship hall. A few dozen people gathered for For Holy Father Jim Holy Spirit’s first Mass July 2, 1983, Spirit, the Greiner at the local funeral home. Now the pavilion and congregation numbers almost 400 entryway projects are just the begin- families, and parishioners are out- ning. The congregation is saving growing the church and parish money to build a new sanctuary on center, which they have called home its property. Plans call for the exist- since November 1985. ing church to be transformed into a Holy Spirit’s 25th anniversary family center. falls during a time of growth and Under the leadership of Father expansion for the church. The con- Jim Greiner, Holy Spirit offers more gregation has just finished a new than a dozen ministries, including entryway project. social action groups, which help In honor of the milestone, 75 support local nonprofit organiza- volunteers worked to build the tions and the community. Celebration Pavilion, nestled on Holy Spirit has expanded the Holy Spirit’s grounds. Construction number of Masses offered, including was funded through private dona- a weekly Mass celebrated in tions, and skilled volunteers donated Spanish. more than 2,000 hours of their Carolyn Cole is a writer for the time to finish the 2,350-square-foot Mustang News. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:24 AM Page 6

6 Sooner Catholic ● July 27, 2008 Safe Injection Sites More Like Safe Enabling Sites So-called “safe injection sites” are than if drug users were shooting up The widely Most of us have seen — even among special buildings where drug addicts alone in a darkened alley. They fur- touted claim that our families and neighbors — how can go to shoot up illegal drugs with- ther claim that the needle exchange safe injection sites destructive the addiction to alcohol out fear of arrest or prosecution. Such program can allow users to remain reduce collateral can be. Not only can it ravage a a facility has been operational in healthy until they get help for their damage from drug person’s life, but it can also destroy Canada on the east side of Vancouver substance abuse problem. There is abuse is itself their family, lead to loss of employ- for several years, and drug abusers even a priest who has penned a kind dubious. Researcher ment, and, even, in some cases, from around the area come to receive of defense of these sites, writing, Garth Davies, at the endanger the lives of others through clean needles, ampules of sterile “Some people would say you’re giving conclusion of an By Father Tad drunken fits or drunken driving. water, swabs for cleaning injection them the OK. I disagree with that extensive analysis Pacholczyk, Ph.D. We’ve also seen how many alcoholics sites, Band-aids, ascorbic acid powder because I think the implication is of the question, have been helped by 12-step (to cut the drugs with), and small that we’re dealing with people who notes how safe injection sites are programs like Alcoholics Anonymous, metal spoon tools. The Canadian can make choices. When they’re ad- “too often credited with generating where the accumulated wisdom of government has been funding this dicted, that’s a whole different kettle positive effects that are not borne out millions of former addicts recognizes site and is in the process of renewing of fish.” In other words, drug users, by solid empirical evidence.” The clearly that the only way they can the funding. Other municipalities like fish, have no free will. claim that crime rates dropped in conquer their addiction is through like San Francisco and New York While drug addiction certainly Vancouver following the opening of supporting each other never to have have also been considering institut- puts a major dent in human freedom, the safe injection site may have another drink. Imagine that, instead ing such sites. Many groups are it would be false to conclude that an resulted from the injection of 60 of supporting programs like AA and opposed to these drug zones, seeing addict can’t make choices. The only police officers into the area when alcoholic rehabilitation centers, a them as cooperating in, if not directly reason there is any hope left for an the facility opened (including four government were to establish bars promoting, a practice that is clearly addict is because he still has a small officers stationed immediately out- where alcoholics could come to get unethical and highly damaging to and diminishing space of freedom side the facility), rather than from drunk, by providing clean glasses, society. They argue that taxpayers that he can act on, allowing him to the injections occurring at the facility furniture and bathrooms, healthy should not be forced to pay for places decide whether or not to begin a new itself. He concludes, “In truth, none hors d’oeuvres and munchies, and where people can use illegal drugs journey. He can choose to take the of the impacts attributed to the safe police protection so that they couldn’t and destroy their lives. first step along the road leading away injection facilities can be unambigu- be robbed in dark alleys. Would any The idea behind the safe injection from addiction toward rehabilitation. ously verified.” of us really think that this would sites is to reduce the collateral Our public strategy for dealing with Public funding should be directed be promoting their rehabilitation? damage from drug abuse. Proponents drug addiction must always show toward rehabilitation programs Those who struggle with substance argue that since addicts have begun great sensitivity toward that tiny rather than safe injection sites. Some abuse are deserving of public policy to use the safe injection sites, the space of freedom that remains in argue that safe injection sites may initiatives that rehabilitate rather crime rate on the east side of each individual struggling with themselves, on occasion, afford the than enable the addicted individual. Vancouver has fallen, and that the addiction. After all, it is precisely this opportunity to lead addicts toward Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D., rates of HIV and hepatitis have freedom that sets us apart from our rehabilitation. Yet there is a contra- earned his doctorate in neuroscience declined because clean needles have animal counterparts. Public policy diction between enabling the addic- from Yale. He is a priest of the been made available. Because nurses should not contribute to shrinking tion on the one hand and promoting diocese of Fall River, Mass., and can keep an eye on addicts after they that space of freedom even further rehabilitation on the other. serves as Director of Education at shoot up in the facility, they say that through approaches that enable This contradiction may be seen The National Catholic Bioethics deaths by overdose will decline, since destructive behaviors and greater very clearly in what our society has Center in Philadelphia. See ambulances can be called more easily addiction. learned about treating alcoholism. www.ncbcenter.org. Immigration Reform Focus of National Conference WASHINGTON — Comprehensive Professor Manuel Suárez-Orozco, often used by opponents of reform. The about the competing visions of nation- immigration reform will be a major an expert on international migration Justice for Immigrants Campaign, the ality that underlie the immigration topic at the 2008 National Migration from New York University, will give a U.S. bishops’ effort to educate Catholics debate. Conference, “Renewing Hope, Seeking detailed presentation on global migra- on immigration, will host a reception Immigration reform will also be a Justice,” to be held July 28-31 at the tion patterns and their root causes, link- Tuesday night. topic for Advocacy Day, Wednesday, Hilton Washington Hotel. ing them to the current U.S. situation. Also on Tuesday afternoon, a work- July 30, when hundreds of participants “The issue of immigration is one On Tuesday, July 29, Department shop titled “Catholic Teaching and will visit their legislators on Capitol of the most controversial domestic of Homeland Security Assistant Migration” will focus upon Catholic Hill. Nearly 700 people from all parts of concerns facing our country,” said Secretary for Immigration and teaching as the underpinning for the the country have registered to partici- Kevin Appleby, director of Migration Customs Enforcement Julie Myers will Catholic position on immigration. “All pate in the conference. The USCCB and Refugee Policy at the United speak and answer questions on the of our work on migration is grounded Migration and Refugee Services and States Conference of Catholic Bishops. recent government enforcement raids in Catholic social teaching. Catholic CLINIC co-sponsor these large-scale “The Holy Father spoke about the around the country. teaching determines the advocacy gatherings every five years to help human side of the issue several times In the afternoon, several work- positions we take, the people we their networks become more technical- during his April visit. The conference shops will focus upon immigration and serve and the way we structure our ly proficient, to solidify their ties to will examine the issue in-depth and the need for reform. Two successive programs,” said Donald Kerwin, colleagues in the field, and to bring a hopefully provide conference partici- workshops — “Back to the Future: executive director of Catholic Legal collective voice to bear on Capitol Hill. pants more insight into it and how the Strategies for Comprehensive Immigration Network Inc. (CLINIC), “Above all, however, these gatherings Church can make a positive contribu- Immigration Reform” and “Back to the which co-sponsors the event. are intended to remind all of us why we tion to the national debate.” Future: Comprehensive Reform and The workshop will feature a talk by do the work we do,” added Kerwin. In his keynote address on opening Messaging” — will revisit lessons Father Daniel Groody of the University The conference will include several night, Cardinal Roger Mahony of Los learned from the loss of reform in 2007 Notre Dame, on the core principles of presentations on faith and migration Angeles will speak on the current and steps necessary to win new reforms Catholic social teaching; Jill Gerschutz and the USCCB’s Secretariat of national immigration debate and give in 2009 and beyond. The second work- of the U.S. Jesuit Conference will apply Cultural Diversity in the Church will participants a blueprint for engaging in shop will look at proper messaging to these principles to the current policy offer several workshops on providing the debate and creating the political influence Catholics and others and to debate; and Kerwin will be speaking on pastoral care and welcoming to new- will for comprehensive reform. counter the anti-immigrant rhetoric what Catholic teaching has to say comers. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:24 AM Page 7

July 27, 2008 ● Sooner Catholic 7 Parishioners Say Thank You to Father Matthew J. Brown, OSB By Kelly Matteson said. “Every other week, I’d have bap- making sure everything was done For the Sooner Catholic tisms. This one time, I had 14 baptisms right.” WEWOKA — It is not often that a at one time. Weekends out there, I used One of Father’s favorite parts of priest gets to remain in one parish for to hear 100 confessions every week- caring for the church property was 29 years, but Father Matthew J. end.” mowing. Kathy Lowrey’s husband, Tim, Brown, OSB, did so at ’s, It is these experiences of which was in charge of keeping Father Wewoka. Father Matthew celebrated Father is most proud. As Father Brown Brown’s lawn mower running. his last Masses as pastor of Saint reflected on his time as a priest, he Kathy Lowrey said Father loves to Joseph’s, Saint Mary’s, Wanette, and pointed out a Sacred Heart parishioner mow, and he did not just mow around Sacred Heart, Konawa, where he has who had joined the church a year ago. the church, but also the cemetery and served the last 10 years and resided, on He said bringing people into the church the mission grounds if time allowed. June 15. is one of the most rewarding parts of Loeffelholz said Father was like his vocation. part of the family. He recalled one After 50 years in parish pastoral “I received her into the church particular visit Father had made to the ministry, Father Brown once again here. So, this is one of the good-feeling Loeffelholz home on a Sunday after- resides at Saint Gregory’s Abbey where things — to receive someone into the noon, when Loeffelholz’s grand- he began as a novitiate after complet- church,” Father said. daughter, Amber, was only 4 or 5 years ing two years at Saint Gregory’s His parishioners have many good old. College. feelings for their priest, too. “She was sitting there looking out Often recognized for his good sense Sacred Heart parishioner Kathy the front door and Father Brown of humor, Father laughed during Mass Lowrey described Father as a gentle parked out front, got out and was on his 85th birthday as he told parish- spirit, speaking often of his humility. coming up the front steps, and Amber ioners about his first meeting with the She said he was always true to his Father Matthew J. Brown, OSB turned around kind of nonchalantly church secretary at Sacred Heart. Benedictine beliefs, living his faith. and went back to her mother and said, The secretary asked his age. When “If people just sat down and got to most significant contributions during ‘Mom, God’s here,’” Loeffelholz said. Father told her he was 75, she said, know him, they couldn’t help but fall in his time as pastor was building a new Father Brown’s work has enabled “Well, you ought to be good for 10 love with him,” she said. church. others to see God in him as well. Kathy years.” Saint Joseph’s parishioner Patti “(Father Brown) was always real Lowrey spoke of the challenges Father Sacred Heart parishioners held a Edwards said there was a time when, particular about keeping the properties faced as he said Mass despite the pain reception in honor of Father on his 85th as a working mother, she did not make up,” Loeffelholz said. “He built this he endured in his knees. birthday,March 16. Three days later, he it to church regularly. Edwards recalled chapel (Saint Joseph’s Catholic “You knew he was in pain, and he celebrated his 59th anniversary as a how Father Brown would always Church) in Wewoka. He bought an old never complained,” she said. “It teaches priest, and he said he has had many inquire about her absence. She said he school building over at Bearden and you a lot of humility. interesting experiences during this always acted out of care and concern. had it hauled over here to Wewoka. All “For me, he definitely affected my time. “He was instrumental in getting of us guys got in there and ripped it out, spiritual life. I didn’t used to go to daily “In 1949-1958, I was in Our Lady’s me to come back to the church on a rebuilt it and put the paneling on the Mass, but I felt like I needed to. If he of Lourde’s Catholic Church in Los regular basis,” Edwards said. walls inside. The only thing that we could go and be in pain like he was and Angeles, Calif., and I used to hear 100 Saint Joseph’s parishioner Paul hired done was the bricking and the say Mass, then surely I could give up a confessions every week,” Father Brown Loeffelholz said one of Father Brown’s roofing. (Father) was right in there, little sleep.” Mount Celebrates Successful Pete Córdova Golf Classic On June 16, the Pete Córdova Golf Classic sponsored by Mercy Health Center celebrated its most successful year, with 115 golfers and a record amount of money raised to support Mount St. Mary High School. The Córdova Golf Classic is a 21-year tradition that brings together alumni, family and friends of the school. This year, golfers enjoyed the beautiful setting of The Greens Country Club in northwest Oklahoma City. “Our goal was to put on a first-class golf tournament to cultivate alumni and friends of The Mount to join us in an afternoon of fun and fellowship that supports a worthy cause,” said Chris Stiles, Director of Advancement at Mount St. Mary High School. “The name Pete Córdova stands as a corner- rectly to build the Pete Córdova support of our partners in mission, Line Inc., Golconda Foundation Inc., stone of character, integrity and leader- Endowment Fund for tuition assis- which included lunch sponsor Spectro Wire and Cable Inc., Mollman ship. To have a record number of golfers tance at Mount St. Mary High School, BancFirst, putting green sponsor Tyler Energy Company, Cooper Medical at this year’s tournament is a tribute to to college scholarships to graduating Media, driving range sponsor John and Buildings, Brandt’s Ace Hardware in him and to the worthy mission of Mount seniors, and to support Alumni Melanie Maguire, and golf cart sponsor Ponca City, Oklahoma Energy Services Mount St. Mary High School.” Association events such as class Keith and Rosa Crall of Benchmark Inc., G & R Auto Parts, Byford Auto Twenty-nine teams competed for reunions. Construction. Group, Wegener Human Resources fun, bragging rights and prizes that In addition to the lead sponsorship Other partners included Mark Wolf Group, Buchanan Realty Group, Mark included a 37-inch plasma TV donated of Mercy Health Center, the Pete of Oklahoma Farm Bureau Insurance, Tomlinson Agency of Farmers by Audio Dimensions. Córdova Golf Classic could not have CareSource, Affiliated Movers of Insurance, Christian Brothers Auto- Proceeds totaling $14,000 go di- been possible without the generous Oklahoma City Inc., McCorkle Truck motive, and Ferguson Pontiac GMAC. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:24 AM Page 8

8 Sooner Catholic ● July 27, 2008 Shawnee Parish Thanks Benedictine Monks For More Than A Century of Ministry By Alex Lee education at St. Gregory’s University. For the Sooner Catholic “We will focus on preparing SHAWNEE — After providing members of our (monastic) community pastoral care to Saint Benedict to serve in various capacities at the Catholic Church for 113 years, Saint university,” he said. “We will also Gregory’s Abbey has abdicated admin- continue to provide weekend assistance istrative and staffing responsibilities of in parishes throughout the state.” the parish to the jurisdiction of the The Benedictine monks first came Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. to present-day Oklahoma from the In addition to the Shawnee parish, Monastery of Pierre-Qui-Vire in France Saint Gregory’s Abbey is also with- prior to statehood. They arrived at drawing all Benedictine monks from Atoka, Indian Territory, in 1875, and other parishes in Pottawatomie and began ministering to American Indians Seminole counties. and other peoples who were moving The sole exception is the Sacred into the region. Heart Church in southern Potta- They eventually settled on land donated by the Citizen Potawatomie watomie County. Rt. Rev. Lawrence Deacon Schrupp presents a check on behalf of the parishioners of Saint Nation and founded Sacred Heart Stasyszen, O.S.B., abbot of Saint Benedict Church to Abbot Stasyszen during an appreciation lunch. The money Abbey and School (now known as Saint Gregory’s Abbey, said that Sacred will be used to erect a granite monument listing the 40-plus towns where Gregory’s Abbey) near Konawa. From Heart will remain a parish of the Benedictine monks have established parishes in Oklahoma since 1875. this base, they established more than Benedictine monks of Saint Gregory’s Photo by Alex Lee Abbey because of its tradition with 40 Catholic churches throughout the the Benedictine community and its territory. And for more than a century, DeGrasse in 1895. The original church the peoples of the Indian Territory and proximity to the historical site of the the Benedictine monks have faithfully was built on North Park Street the states of Oklahoma and California. original monastery complex. served many parishes, convents, between Ninth and Tenth streets. The The lunch was attended by several Citing that the decreased number military chapels, prisons and hospitals current edifice on North Kickapoo was hundred parishioners as well as monks of monks available to serve in residen- across Oklahoma, especially the completed in 1907. It is the home from Saint Gregory’s Abbey. tial ministry has necessitated the churches of Pottawatomie and parish for more than 600 families in To express their gratitude to the abbey to withdraw its personnel, Abbot Seminole counties. In addition, they the northern two-thirds of Potta- Benedictine monks, Deacon David Stasyszen said also that today’s in- also serve the Montebello and east Los watomie County. Schrupp presented Abbot Stasyszen quirers about the abbey feel called to Angeles parishes in California. In commemoration of the with a monetary gift on behalf of all experience the life of prayer and Due to shifting populations and Benedictine ties with the Shawnee parishioners for the erection of a work in the context of the monastic pastoral needs, Sacred Heart Abbey parish, Abbot Stasyszen celebrated all granite monument to be built in front community and not as living was subsequently relocated to the Masses at Saint Benedict Church the of the chapel on the campus of away from the monastery. campus of St. Gregory’s University in weekend of May 31 to June 1 as a St. Gregory’s University. The granite Abbot Stasyszen noted that the Shawnee in 1929. formal ritual marking the transition of monument will bear the outline of the abbey will remain committed to fur- Saint Benedict Catholic Church in pastoral care to the archdiocese. state of Oklahoma, with the names thering and developing Catholic higher Shawnee was founded by Rev. Felix An appreciation lunch was held of the 40-plus towns where the after Mass on June 1 at the Benedict Benedictine monks have established Center in recognition of the dedicated parishes after their arrival in 1875. A witnesses and pastoral ministries the landscaped plaza and a walkway will Benedictine monks have provided to also be built around the monument. Oklahoma Parishes Founded by the Monks of Sacred Heart Abbey/Saint Gregory’s Abbey Konawa/Asher, Sacred Heart-1876 Mulhall, St. Agnes-1893 Lehigh, Our Lady of Good Counsel-1884 Langston, Holy Family-1893 Krebs, St. Joseph’s-1884 Hartshorne, Holy Rosary-1893 N. McAlester, St. John’s-1886 Tecumseh, Our Lady of the Holy Rosary-1893 Pawhuska, Immaculate Concept.-1887 Anvil, St. Michael’s-1894 Purcell, Our Lady of Victory-1887 Minco, Our Lady of the Holy Rosary-1895 Hominy Creek, St. John’s-1889 Shawnee, St. Benedict’s -1896 Edmond, St. -1889 Eason, St. Gregory’s Mission-1897 Oklahoma City, St. Joseph’s-1889 Wanette, St. Mary’s-1897 Guthrie, St. Mary’s-1889 Chandler, Our Lady of Sorrows-1897 El Reno, Sacred Heart-1889 Durant, St. Williams-1898 Kingfisher, Sts. Peter & Paul-1889 Boggy Depot, Sacred Heart-1898 Ponca City, St. Mary’s-1890 Chickasha, Holy Name-1898 Benedictine monks from Saint Gregory’s Abbey who attended the formal ritual Norman, St. Joseph’s-1890 Geary, St. Joseph’s-1899 marking the relinquishment of the abbey’s pastoral care of Saint Benedict Hennessey, St. Joseph’s-1890 Calumet, Immaculate Heart-1900 Church after 113 years are front row, Father Manuel Magallanes, Brother Kevin Lexington, St. John the Baptist-1891 Anadarko (parish), Holy Family-1901 McGuire, Abbot Lawrence Stasyszen, Father Martin Lugo and Brother Dominic Muskogee, Assumption-1891 S. McAlester-1904 Ramirez; (back row), Father Adrian Vorderlandwehr, Father Eugene Marshall, Coalgate, Blessed Sacrament-1891 Maud, St. Cecelia-1907 Father Louis Van der Ley, Father Maurus Jaeb, Brother Damian Whalen and Anadarko (Mission), St. Patrick’s-1892 Wewoka, St. Joseph’s-1908 Brother Benet Exton. Photo by Alex Lee Perry, St. -1893 Seminole, -1908 SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:24 AM Page 9

July 27, 2008 ● Sooner Catholic 9 Fatima Statue to Visit Oklahoma Parishes

The Archdiocese of Oklahoma City will be host- responded, or if a parish would like to receive ing a tour of the International Pilgrim Statue the statue but did not receive a letter of invitation, of Our Lady of Fatima during the month of August. contact Jennifer McKay at (405) 823-8906 by Aug. 1. The statue is scheduled to arrive on Saturday, Aug. For more information about the International 2, and will depart from the Archdiocese on Friday, Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima, visit Aug. 22. The mission of the travels of the statue is www.pilgrimvirginstatue.com. to spread Our Lady’s message that was given to the children of Fatima and to bring the presence of Calendar Mary to the people. Please see parish bulletin for times The history of the International Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima began in 1946. Under 08/02/08 - St. Peter, Guymon the suggestion from Sister Lucia, a statue was 08/03/08 - St. Peter Church, Woodward created to be used as a pilgrim statue. The statue 08/05/08 - Church of St. Mary, Ponca City was blessed on May 13, 1947, and began its journey. 08/06/08 - St. Joseph, Bison The statue has a full-time guardian and has never 08/07/08 - Sts. Peter & Paul, Kingfisher stopped traveling. 08/08/08 - St. Matthew, Elk City Various miracles, favors and signal graces have 08/10/08 - St. Patrick, Anadarko occurred in the presence of the statue. 08/11/08 - Holy Family, Lawton During the visit of the statue, the guardian will 08/12/08 - St. Helen, Fredrick provide a 25- to 30-minute presentation about the 08/14/08 - St. , Norman message of Fatima. Each parish involved will have 08/15/08 - St. John the Baptist Church, its own schedule of events to occur while the statue Edmond is at that location. This may include the celebration 08/17/08 - Christ the King, Oklahoma City of Mass, adoration, praying of the Rosary, or a 08/18/08 - Sacred Heart, Oklahoma City combination of events. 08/18/08 - St. Eugene Church, Oklahoma City The list of locations that the statue is currently 08/19/08 - Our Lady of Fatima Church, scheduled to visit can be found on the calendar of Nicoma Park events section. There are several dates open during 08/19/08 - Holy Family Maternity Home, the time that the statue will be here. If a parish has Midwest City received a letter of invitation and has not yet 08/21/08 - St. Wenceslaus, Prague Saint Andrew Parish Fun in the Summer Sun

Parishioners at Saint Andrew Church in Moore turned out June 29 for the annual parish picnic. Families, Food and Fun was the theme for this year’s picnic. Youth and adults enjoyed a number of activities including the watermelon- eating contest and the animal balloon-making tent. Photos/John Prati SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:25 AM Page 10

10 Sooner Catholic ● July 27, 2008 Catholic Youth Enjoy Summer Camp, and Writer Finds She Does, Too

By Ammanda McCabe The Sooner Catholic Our Lady of Guadalupe looks in many ways like a typical summer camp. Cabins, swimming pool, lots of trees. As I stood in the dining hall at the start of breakfast, watching ravenous crowds descend on the two food lines, I felt like I’d been thrown back to my own teenage camp days. The smell of sunscreen, chlorine, bacon, the sound of loud music, laughter, chatter — all so familiar. But in reality, it’s not just any camp. It’s a place to find the spirituality of God in the every day, which was the theme I kept hearing throughout the day from everyone I talked to. I wandered around the lush green campgrounds, taking in all the activities — archery, canoeing, swimming, volleyball, crafts. Even in the busiest of moments, starting with outdoor morning prayer under the trees, that presence of God was apparent. (Just maybe not in the most visible Seminarians Brian Buettner and Danny Grover with Zak Spitz and camp ways — many of the arrows went wide of the target, and the canoes tended to director Nancy Housh serving breakfast for the campers. row in circles, but everyone was having fun and helping each other!) Stephanie Woods, 26, is the camp nurse for the third summer. An RN at Deaconess Hospital in Oklahoma City, she has been coming to OLOG since she was 9, and always looks forward to returning. “I can’t stay away!” she said, as she distributed bandages and morning medications after breakfast. She started out as a teenager working in the kitchen, and moved up to counselor-in-training, counselor, and the YA staff. It’s a legacy, too, as her young cousin attended camp for the first time this summer. When asked what brings her back, she answered, “It’s seeing God through different people, through nature. So often you see some- one who may be struggling themselves, still reach out and help others. It’s inspir- ing.” Seminarian Danny Grover, who is working this summer on the mission team, says the best part of the job is “Mass every day. You don’t get that working in a restaurant!” He also enjoys organizing the nightly camp fires and special events, like camp Olympics. When I needed a break from the sun, I headed back to the dining hall to sit in the air-conditioned room and talk with a group playing games of Battleship and working on crafts. Being 12-year-olds, there was some shyness and giggling when I asked what they liked best about camp. One girl said it was the food (not Left: Counselor Justin Linck something often heard at summer camp, and a testament to the excellent teaches John Schafer how to kitchen staff!). They also answered “Making new friends” and getting to know use a bow and arrow during people they might not encounter in their everyday lives. “Lots of stuff to do” and archery. Above, four-square is “basketball” were also mentioned. Yet they all agreed that they like the prayers a way of life at camp. RarLey and daily Mass, and the way they can find God in the beauty of the nature Ledet takes her turn before around them. Mass. Photos Sooner I had so much fun reliving summer camp for the day! It was a great Catholic/Cara Koenig privilege to see the energy and enthusiasm of the young campers, and to hear about their closeness to God there in nature and with each other. I wonder if OLOG might need another volunteer next year…

Campers have the opportunity to canoe and fish on one of the five ponds at camp. Daily Mass is part of what makes OLOG different than other camps. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:25 AM Page 11

July 27, 2008 ● Sooner Catholic 11 Guymon Parish Celebrates Centennial With Mass on June 29

GUYMON — Church celebrated its 100th anniversary with an array of activities June 27-29. On Sunday, the Feast of Saint Peter and Paul, Archbishop Beltran celebrated Mass as 1,000 people packed the County Activity Center. Following Mass a catered dinner was held at the Pickle Creek Reception Hall. In his homily, Archbishop Beltran told the Catholic faithful their history in Guymon is part of the universal Church and their faith is a gift from God. “Today’s important feast day of Peter and Paul and your celebration of the centennial anniversary of your parish help us to appreciate more fully the great gift of our Catholic faith,” Archbishop Beltran said. “This gift was given to us at the moment of our baptism. It was then that Almighty God washed away our sin and gave us a share in His own life.” Father Bill Pruett, pastor at Saint Peter, said the centennial celebration began Friday evening with a re- ception for priests who have served throughout the years at Saint Peter. Priests attending included Father Joe Burger, Father Joe Kolb, Father Don Wolf, Father Steve Hamilton, Father Chuck Murphy and Father Roberto Quant. Saint Peter is mission to Saint Frances Cabrini Above, Archbishop Beltran celebrates Mass Church in Beaver, Church of the Good Shepherd in Boise for the faithful of Saint Peter Church. City and Sacred Heart Church in Hooker. At left and below, the archbishop greets Father Pruett said Texas County in the Oklahoma members of the Saint Peter faith community Panhandle is home to more than 3,000 Catholic families. during the centennial celebration held on the He is assisted by associate pastors, Father Raul Sanchez Feast Day of Sts. Peter and Paul. Below left, and Father Anthony Raj Ram. Father Bill Pruett thanks Archbishop Beltran and presents him with a gift. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:25 AM Page 12

12 Sooner Catholic ● July 27, 2008 St. Eugene Church Celebrates 50 Years OKLAHOMA CITY — Saint Eugene Catholic Church recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with a weekend of activities to recognize its past and look toward the future. The weekend celebration from Friday, May 30 through Monday, June 2 included a founding members dinner, a parish picnic, an outdoor anniversary Mass and a Mass on the feast of Pope Saint Eugene. Eighty-five founding members, past priests, religious and staff gathered for the founding members dinner on May 30 in which founding members received certificates honoring the “living stones” who first built the parish. Each member will have a personalized stone placed in the new Founders Garden. Those gathered for the dinner shared memorable stories of the parish’s early days, and they had the opportunity to view the time capsule that was buried by founding member Jim Steffen in 1983. The Knights of Columbus prepared some 600 ham- Past and present pastors of St. Eugene’s Parish concelebrate the anniversary Mass with burgers and hot dogs on May 31 for the parish picnic, Archbishop Beltran. which was organized by the Community Life Commission. More than 600 joined for food and fun. The RCIA class and their sponsors served the food, and the Saint Eugene Seniors served lemonade. Sunday’s outdoor Mass on June 1 celebrated Saint Eugene’s diversity. The musical selections featured both English and Spanish, as did the Liturgy of the Word and the Homily. More than 850 parishioners, including found- ing members, were in attendance. The concelebrants included Father Joseph Jacobi, Father Bill Ross, Father Bill Pruett, Father Jerry MacAulay, Father Rick Parker, Father Frank Wrigley, Father Phil Donohoe and Father Stephen Bird. Each has served as either pastor or associate pastor of Saint Eugene’s. Archbishop Eusebius Beltran, 40 priests, several deacons and about 200 parishioners gathered June 2 to celebrate Mass on the feast day of Pope Saint Eugene, the parish’s patron saint. In addition to the many former pastors and associate pastors in attendance were former parishioners Father Rex Arnold and Father Kirk Larkin. Also, William Turner was one of the altar servers, and he had just received word that he had been accepted to study for the priesthood as a seminarian. A formal anniversary banquet is scheduled for Sept. 20 at the Beacon Club. Also, the parish is still trying to locate founding members. If you need information about the Sept. 20 banquet or if you have information about founding members, call the church at (405) 751-7115.

There were many activities at the parish picnic for the children including bubble blowing.

At the Friday night founding members dinner, founding members received certificates honoring them and their dedication to the church. Hundreds attended the outdoor Mass on Sunday. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:25 AM Page 13

July 27, 2008 ● Sooner Catholic 13 Catholic Roots Used by Author St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Stores Needs You OKLAHOMA CITY — St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store needs volunteers By Ammanda McCabe her book. St. Benedict’s was dedi- and can use as much or as little time that you have to give. Call (405) 917-5999 The Sooner Catholic cated May 12, 1907, and in 1905, the or (405) 602-0011 and talk with the store manager, Kathy, to set up a time. We Oklahoma resident Sandra parishioners were holding fund- have two locations, N.W. 10th Street and N.W. 23rd Street in OKC. Remember Wilkins’s novel Ada’s Heart started raisers for its construction. Wilkins that your donation of goods or time will help the less fortunate with food, cloth- with a friendship. She met two found an old newspaper article ing, utilities and much more. Please come and help. Volunteers needed for: truck women while working at a Ponca describing a “Catholic Fair” held in drivers, people to help sort clothing, toys and houseware as well as helping with City bookstore. “I liked the fact that downtown Shawnee. They sold laundry, checking electronics, pricing items, arranging merchandise on the sales even though we had different “fancy work and useful articles” as floor as well as wash dishes and clean merchandise. Special talents that are personalities, we were still good well as flour, eggs and butter. They needed are carpentry, plumbing and manual labor when needed. Clerical help is also needed for making phone calls, thanking, asking for volunteers, organiz- friends,” Wilkins said. She just had also sold chances for high-ticket ing volunteers, typing and writing thank you letters from home and much more. to find the right setting for those items, including an Angora goat! Hours of operation are Mon-Sat., 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., closed Sunday. three characters, Ada, Rose and Wilkins also used historical sites Gwen, and decided on Shawnee in like the Norwood Hotel and the 1905. Santa Fe Depot (used on the book’s cover). Ada’s Heart is the story of Sister Rosina Mies Celebrates 60th Anniversary Wilkins, who is a parishioner at actress Ada Marsh, who arrives in Sister Rosina Mies, ASC, cele- and served 25 St. Michael’s in Meeker, says her bustling Shawnee in 1905 with her brated her 60th anniversary at years as a acting troupe. After a scandal faith is very important to her. “I the Wichita Center on June 7. nursing involving her fiancé, Ada decides to have set each book in the series Sister Rosina made her first pro- manager. In leave her old life behind and settle around a Bible verse,” she said. The fession of vows at the Wichita 1995 she in Shawnee. She befriends two one used in Ada’s Heart is Psalm Province on July 1, 1948. began her young ladies, Gwen and Rose, along 37:4, “Delight yourself in the Lord Sister Rosina Mies was born current with Gwen’s handsome cousin, Luke and He will give you the desires of in Mount Hope, Kan., to Mathias position there Logan, who has to earn Ada’s trust your heart.” Wilkins added, “I feel and Rosa Helen Bergkamp Mies. as manager before he can earn her love. God gave me a gift, and I’ve tried to She entered the Adorers of the of medical/- Sister Rosina Wilkins was also inspired by her develop it over the years. I am a Blood of Christ in December 1946. surgical. Mies, ASC own family history in creating this true believer that with hard work, Since 1958 when Sister She also story. Her ancestors, the Marak and dedication, and in His time, with received her nursing degree, she served several years at St. Schiltz families, were early members God, all things are possible!” has devoted her life to health Francis Hospital in Tulsa as of St. Benedict’s Church in Shawnee, Ada’s Heart is available through care, primarily at St. Mary’s surgery supervisor and at St. and Wilkins wanted to use the build- Avalon Publishing, www.avalon- Hospital in Enid where she began Francis Hospital in Washington, ing of the church as a backdrop for books.com, and at Amazon.com. as a nurse, then returned in 1970 Mo., as a staff nurse.

Across Oklahoma Twin Beds Needed These are Gather Comprehensive, first edition Summer Retreat at St. Gregory’s Abbey The Refugee Department of Catholic Charities (1994) SHAWNEE — Called to Attention: Reflections is in need of twin size bed mattresses and box - Pew edition: approximately 300 on Frederick Buechner’s Telling the Truth Retreat, springs, and twin size bedding for refugees arriving - Choir edition: 37 facilitated by Father Charles Buckley, OSB, this month. Bed frames are also needed, especially - Organ accompaniment, 2 vols. (landscape) Aug. 1-3. Cost of retreats: $75/person includes lodg- twin size frames. Other items needed are toiletries, - Guitar accp, 4 vols. (spiral bound) ing, meals and registration. Contact cjbuckley@- hygiene products, etc. If pickup is needed, please - Keyboard accp, 2 vols. (3-ring binder, 8.5x11) stgregorys.edu. call 523-3002 to arrange for a time. Tax donation - C instrument forms are also available. Please call the parish office at 737-4476 if you 40 Hours of Eucharistic Adoration are interested in receiving these hymnals. OKLAHOMA CITY — St. Eugene Parish in Maternity Clothing Needed Oklahoma City will hold a 40-hour Eucharistic Birth Choice of Oklahoma is in need of summer Midwest Catholic Family Conference Adoration Devotion Aug. 18-20 in connection with maternity clothing. The clothing can be dropped off WICHITA, Kan. — The Midwest Catholic the visit of the International Pilgrim Statue of Our at any Birth Choice office, 4701 S. Western (OKC), Lady of Fatima to our parish. St. Eugene is cele- Family Conference will be held Aug. 1-3 at 5106 N. Rockwell (Bethany), 11C Burton Place brating its 50th anniversary as a parish. We will Century II in Wichita, Kan. Father Frank Pavone (Edmond), or 457 W. Gray (Norman). If any items make the Eucharistic devotion in thanksgiving and discusses life issues; Teresa Tomeo tells you how need to be picked up, please contact the South prayer for the future of our parish. All are welcome. to steer your family away from the harmful Office at 631-4477. We are very appreciative of any effects of media overload; Andrew Pudewa and all donations! Bishop John Carroll Golf Classic addresses how music influences your life; Rebecca OKLAHOMA CITY — Bishop John Carroll Volunteers Needed Dussault, Olympic skier, encourages you to keep 10th annual Golf Classic, Aug. 23 at Lincoln Park Birth Choice needs registered nurses, licensed godly priorities in your family life; Jim Stenson West Course. Shotgun start at 7:30 a.m. Visit practical nurses as volunteers to do ultrasounds on brings you the ins and outs of effective parent www.bjcspto.golfreg.com to register or to become a women who might be considering abortion. You can leadership. The weekend brings special time for sponsor or contact Roger Brown at 990-3585 or help save a life. Over 90 percent of women choose worship with Mass, Confession, Eucharistic [email protected]. life when they are able to see their baby via ultra- Adoration and the outdoor Eucharistic Procession sound. Interested? Volunteers are needed in all on Friday evening. Program information and Worldwide Marriage Encounter offices, Bethany, Edmond, Norman and south registration available at www.catholicfamily- Take the time to make a difference in your Oklahoma City. Call Pat at 330-2111. conference.org or from brochures located in the marriage. Spend a weekend building on this most Parish Office. You may also register at the sacred sacrament. The next weekend in Oklahoma Hymnals Free to Good Home conference for the weekend or for a day. For more City is Oct. 24-26. Contact Dan or Jean Forgue at St. Philip Neri Parish is giving away hymnals information, contact Kevin Regan at 316-618- (405) 760-0390 or (405) 760-0349 or e-mail parts- to a parish in the Archdiocese that can use them. 9787 or [email protected]. [email protected] for more information. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:26 AM Page 14

14 Sooner Catholic ● July 27, 2008 Red Plains Monastery Celebrated 40th Anniversary June 21

OKLAHOMA CITY — The Sisters of Benedict at Red Plains Monastery celebrated the 40th anniversary of their ministry and service in Oklahoma on June 21, at the Church of the Epiphany. In addition, three of their Sisters celebrated their Jubilees. Sister Eunice Ballmann celebrated 60 years; Sister Elena Hernandez celebrated her golden Jubilee with 50 years; and Sister Roberta Schachle, who could not be present, also celebrated 60 years. Archbishop Beltran celebrated Mass in recognition of the anniversary. Concelebrating were Abbot Lawrence Stasyszen, Father Price Grimes, Father John Feehily, Father John Metzinger, Father Don Wolf and Father Joseph Jacobi. Growing up in St. Louis, Sister Eunice Ballmann always wanted to be a Sister, and this was strengthened when two Benedictine Sisters from Oklahoma visited her high school. A year after graduation, she entered the Benedictine Community. Sister Eunice is “thankful each day that I discovered Benedictine monastic life in Oklahoma, and have carried the Good News of the Gospel to the many children I taught in parish and vacation Bible schools.” Sister Roberta Schachle also knew at a young age what her path in life would be. She grew up in Canute with seven brothers and sisters, and joined the community at Guthrie after college in 1945. “My life in Community is where I have worked and developed my gifts and talents,” she says, and those talents include the beautiful pottery she still works on. Sister Eunice Ballman and Sister Elena Hernandez renew their vows before Sister Elena Hernandez came from Irapuato, Mexico, and entered St. Sister Jan Futrell, prioress. Joseph Convent in Tulsa in 1956. Twelve years later, she joined in establish- ing Red Plains Monastery. “I am the ‘elder’ member in my community,” she says, and after 18 years serving as pastoral minister at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Hollis, she was glad to return in 1993. In his homily, Archbishop Beltran commented on the Sisters’ early service at St. Joseph Monastery in Tulsa, where they were “schooled in Benedictine spirituality” in a “time of social change,” and praised their years of devoted service. They continue still their lives “as religious women dedicated to the Lord. You introduce people to Jesus and accompany them on their pilgrimage of faith,” the archbishop said. “May each of you continue this journey of faith to life everlasting in heaven!” Sister Janice Futrell thanked everyone who contributed to making the anniversary such a success, and said, “Even as we affirm the past in our celebration today, so too do we look to assuring the future — hoping that our presence as a community of prayer and hospitality engaged in spiritual life ministries can be sustained.” A reception was held following the celebration in Bryce Hall.

Abbot Lawrence Stasyzen, OSB, shares the Sign of Peace with the Benedictine Sisters.

Sister Elena Hernandez, OSB, and Sister Gertrude Nagel, OSB, deliver the gifts during the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

Many faithful supporters of the Benedictine Sisters attended the celebration. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:26 AM Page 15

July 27, 2008 ● Sooner Catholic 15 Villa Celebrates 75th Anniversary with Fun and Games

OKLAHOMA CITY — Villa is still a private Catholic school owned Teresa School celebrated its 75th and operated by the Sisters, serving anniversary on June 20 at the school children ages 2 1/2 through fourth at 1216 Classen Drive. More than 500 grade. Attendance is growing every people attended, with more than 400 year at the school, which emphasizes hamburgers and hot dogs served. volunteerism and service, liturgical Attendees could choose from a wide celebrations, the fine arts and tech- variety of games, including water nology, in addition to a traditional balloons, decorating the new driveway educational curriculum. with chalk, making murals from “Smart Board technology is al- butcher paper to cover the walls, and ready used in the first- through bouncy toys with a background of bag- fourth-grade classroom, and we’re pipe music from the band Arbroath. adding them to the kindergarten class “The bingo was especially popular!” this summer,” said Sister Veronica. said Villa Teresa Principal Sister Villa Teresa provides a before- and Veronica Higgins. “Everyone had a after-school program as well as year- wonderful time.” round education. Villa Teresa was established by The anniversary celebration will the Carmelite Sisters of St. Therese in continue with more events through- 1933, with the present school built in out the year, including the annual 1950 and expanded over the years. It carnival the last Saturday in October.

Sister Terese Ranallo and Blaise Bittle having dinner at the Villa Teresa School’s 75th anniversary kickoff celebration.

Alyna and Alyssa Dinh receiving play tattoos from Mattie Balloon.

Seria Ward and Alex Partin sliding down the balloon ride.

Sister Veronica Higgins and Kevin O’Nan at Villa Teresa’s celebration. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:26 AM Page 16 SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:26 AM Page 17 SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:26 AM Page 18

18 Sooner Catholic ● July 27, 2008

JOBS BOX Campus Minister needs are met and directs food preparation. LPN - food prep, cashier and general cleaning. Bishop There is an immediate opening for a campus Full-time shifts available (3 p.m. to 11 p.m. and McGuinness is located at 801 N.W. 50th. Interested minister to direct the UCO Catholic Student weekend doubles). Individual Program parties may e-mail at claybaughx237@mcguin- Center at the University of Central Oklahoma. Coordinator - Must have good communication ness.k12.ok.us, leave a voice message at 842-6656 Applicants are asked to send a resume to Rev. John skills interacting with our clients, their families Ext. 257 or bring a resume to the school, attention R. Metzinger, St. John the Baptist Parish, P.O. Box and the community. Two years experience working to cafeteria manager. 510, Edmond, Okla. 73083. For additional informa- with people with developmental disabilities or tion, contact Father Metzinger at (405) 340-0691. degree combination. To apply, call 263-4658, fax Dean of Enrollment Management 263-4563, e-mail [email protected], or in person at St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee invites Temporary Full-Time Activity Director 635 W. Texas, Okarche, Okla. 73762. EOE applicants for the position of Dean of Enrollment Saint Ann Retirement Center will have an Management. Position responsible for the develop- opening Sept. 1, 2008, for a full-time activity direc- Extended Care Program Provider ment, implementation, maintenance, analysis and tor. This position is a temporary position for four Holy Trinity Catholic School is seeking an general supervision of all programs related to the months. The position is responsible for scheduling adult who is 18 years or older who can work as our recruiting and retaining of undergraduate stu- and providing activities for all residents on a daily extended care program provider for the 2008-2009 dents. Involves developing and implementing the basis, and having scheduled activities periodically school year. We will provide Safe Environment univer-sity’s strategic enrollment and marketing in the evening hours and on weekends. Insures training. Experience with children is preferred. plan and recruiting goals for the College of Arts that transportation is arranged for all residents for Hours of service are 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. each school and Sciences. This position manages the budget for outings, scheduled activities and physician day. Contact the school office at 263-4422 to apply. the office and supervises the admissions counselors appointments. A valid driver’s license is required. and office support staff. In addition, this position Applicants can fax letter of interest to Sid Full-Time Music Teacher will coordinate and support the contracted recruit- Espinosa, executive director, at (405) 721-0747. Mount St. Mary High School is seeking a ment companies. Applicants must possess an Saint Ann Retirement Center is located at 7501 W. full- time certified music teacher for the 2008-09 understanding of and willingness to support the St. Britton Road in OKC. school year. Contact Talita DeNegri at (405) 631- Gregory’s University Catholic and Benedictine 8865, or fax resumé and letter of interest to (405) mission. Master’s degree is required. Experience Director of Homeless Day Service Programs 631-9209. as an admissions counselor and a minimum of two Catholic Charities is looking for a homeless years experience in the director’s or assistant posi- services director. The homeless services director Full-Time Maintenance tion is preferred. Electronic résumés are preferred, will be responsible for identifying and defining Mount St. Mary High School is seeking full- and should include a letter of application describ- service programs, developing and coordinating time maintenance employee. Contact Danny ing experience, qualifications, vision and record of social service delivery with other service partners Calhoun at (405) 631-8865. achieving/exceeding enrollment goals at one’s in the OKC metro area, and monitoring and report- recent institution. Shingi Goto, Executive Vice ing on program implementation. As the director of Math and Science Teacher President, St. Gregory’s University, 1900 W. the day shelter facility, this position will have St. Mary’s School in Ponca City is accepting MacArthur, Shawnee, Okla. 74804, sngoto@stgre- responsibility for the management of the facility applications for a three-fourths-time math and gorys.edu, (405) 878-5435. and will coordinate and supervise the daily opera- science teacher for the 2008-09 school year. tions. This position will coordinate all administra- Oklahoma state certificate in middle school science Provost tive functions for the shelter and will collaborate and math, including Algebra I required. St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee invites with the homeless services coordinator to assure Competitive salary. Benefits available. Send applications for the position of provost. This execu- delivery of social services. Master’s degree in social resume, copy of certificate and references to tive level position is the chief academic and student work, human services or related field plus three Principal, 415 S. 7th, Ponca City, Okla. 74601. oversight officer under the direction of the presi- years related experience. Knowledge of Catholic dent, and is the administrator of academic affairs, Social Teaching is required. Successful candidate Full-Time Director student life, intercollegiate athletics and enroll- must possess excellent oral and written communi- Villa Teresa Moore School in south OKC has ment management. The successful candidate will cation skills and the ability to relate to and profes- an immediate opening for the position of director. provide visionary leadership in these areas, pre- sionally interact with staff, volunteers and the pub- VTM accepts children ages 3 through kinder- pare and oversee budgets, ensure athletic pro- lic. Send résumé to Catholic Charities, Attn: HR, garten. Candidate for director must be a practicing gram compliance with NAIA regulations, oversee 1501 N. Classen Boulevard, Oklahoma City, Okla. Catholic and meet the requirements for the the academic programs offered by the College of 73106, or call (405) 523-3000. Oklahoma Director’s Credential. Send resumes to Arts and Sciences and the College for Working Villa Teresa Moore, 13501 S. Western, OKC 73170, Adults, and ensure the academic integrity of all Administrative Assistant or contact Sister Patricia Miller at 691-7737 for an programs and adherence to the university’s aca- Catholic Charities is looking for an adminis- interview. demic policies, regulations and procedures. The trative assistant for the Develpment department. provost supervises the deans of the College of Arts A successful candidate will possess computer profi- Part-Time Religion Teacher and Sciences and the College for Working Adults, ciency in Word, Excel and Outlook; excellent orga- Sts. Peter and Paul School in Kingfisher is the registrar, the library director, the director of the nizational skills with the ability to multi-task; seeking a part-time religion teacher. Candidate will Student Exploration Center, athletic director and excellent typing and document production skills; be required to coordinate the religious education the admissions director. A doctorate degree is Publisher or equivalent software proficiency pre- program of the school. Current state teaching required in a discipline represented among our ferred; positive oral and written communication teaching certificate is not required. Contact Kim academic programs and an academic background skills; and the ability to relate to and professional- Kroener at (405) 375-4616 for more information. sufficient for tenure. This individual must be a ly interact with staff, volunteers and the public. practicing Catholic with knowledge of Benedictine Preference will be given to Catholic candidate. Four-Year-Old Teacher spirituality. Salary and benefits are commensurate Send résumé to Catholic Charities, Attn: HR, 1501 Villa Teresa School in Oklahoma City has an with experience. Electronic applications are pre- N. Classen Boulevard, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73106, opening for an additional 4-year-old class and are ferred, and should include a cover letter and or call (405) 523-3000. in need of a teacher with Oklahoma certification in resume. Nominations, expressions of interest or Early Childhood. Send resumes to Sister Veronica requests for the complete position specifications Help Wanted with Adults with Higgins, 1216 Classen Drive, or call for an inter- may be sent directly to the university: Shingi Goto, Developmental Disabilities view, 232-4286. Executive Vice President, St. Gregory’s University, The Center of Family Love in Okarche has 1900 W. Mac-Arthur, Shawnee, Okla. 74804, sngo- immediate openings for the following: Production Part-Time Cafeteria Help [email protected], (405) 878-5435. Floor Supervisor - To supervise our clients as Bishop McGuinness High School cafeteria they work in our Kingfisher filter workshop. has three part-time positions open for next school For a full and up-to-date jobs box listing, Dietary Manager - Responsible for the food serv- year. The hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday go to catharchdioceseokc.org and ice operation while insuring our client’s nutritional through Friday. The duties include some cooking, click on Jobs Box SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:26 AM Page 19

July 27, 2008 ● Sooner Catholic 19

Calendar Reconciliation available prior to Dorset Drive, every Monday begin- and spiritual director, from 9:30 a.m. JULY Mass. Mass is at 7 p.m. Those want- ning at 7 a.m. and concluding with to 12:30 p.m.. A half-day retreat for ing to learn more about First Friday Benediction at 7 p.m. For more infor- practicing being present in the Devotion and the practice of conse- mation, contact Linda at 496-0033. moment, deepening your ability to be 28 Weekly Adoration of the crating the family and home to the in stillness, and relaxing into being Blessed Sacrament at Christ the Sacred Heart of Jesus will find 5 Eucharistic Adoration at the here now. Fee: $60 ($15 deposit). King Catholic Church, located one materials available after Mass. For Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Register: (405) 373-0804, or mail block north of Wilshire, halfway more information, call the Office of Help, NW 32nd and Western, every registration form. Place: Monastery between Penn and May at 8005 Family Life at (405) 721-8944 or Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. to noon. The Library. Limit: 15 people. Dorset Drive, every Monday begin- Diane Grim at (405) 528-6252. Rosary is said every weekday at 2.30 ning at 7 a.m. and concluding with p.m. All are welcome. 17 Taize Prayer, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Benediction at 7 p.m. For more infor- 1-3 Called to Attention: Red Plains Monastery, 728 Richland mation, contact Linda at 496-0033. Reflections on Frederick 8 Bingo at St. Joseph’s Church in Road SW, Piedmont. For more Buechner’s Telling the Truth, Norman. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. details, call 373-4565. Optional video 29 Eucharistic Adoration at the facilitated by Father Charles with the serving of a light dinner. on Taize prayer at 6 p.m. Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Buckley, OSB, at St. Gregory’s Abbey First session of games begins at 7; Help, NW 32nd and Western, every in Shawnee. Cost of retreats: $75/ second session at 8:30. Concessions 17 The Community of the Secular Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. to noon. The person includes lodging, meals and serve popcorn, candy, coffee, soft Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary Rosary is said every weekday at 2.30 registration. Contact cjbuckley@- drinks and desserts. There are of Mt. Carmel and St. Teresa of p.m. All are welcome. stgregorys.edu. drawings for door prizes. Jesus - Oklahoma Community and Province of St. Therese, meets at St. AUGUST 2 Mass in Tagalog. St. Paul the 9 The Benedictine Oblates of Red Joseph Carmelite Monastery in Apostle Catholic in Del City will Plains Monastery will meet from Piedmont from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For celebrate Mass in Tagalog (Filipino) 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. They join the more information, call Janet Mildfelt 1 Holy Family Home Mass, 11:30 at 7 p.m. each Saturday. A potluck Community for Vespers, followed by a at (405) 848-6275 or Deacon Jim a.m. To confirm that Mass will be dinner will occasionally follow Mass. potluck dinner. For more information, Breazile at (405) 377-9478. held that day and for directions, All are welcome. contact Sister Eunice at 373-4565 or contact the HFMH at 741-7419. [email protected]. 17-25 Monthly Novena to the 2 Lectio Divina with Sister Marie Infant Jesus, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, 1 First Friday Adoration at St. Ballmann, OSB, from 9:30 a.m. to 12 Eucharistic Adoration at the Nat’l Shrine of the Infant Jesus, in Oklahoma City. 3:30 p.m. An ancient prayer for Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Saint Wenceslaus Church, SH-99 7 After the 7:30 a.m. Mass, and modern times learn the gentle Help, NW 32nd and Western, every miles N. I-40 or 20 miles S. I-44 at concludes at 5:30 p.m. with closing rhythm of Lectio Divina. Fee: $40 Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. to noon. The Stroud exit, Prague, (405) 567-3080. prayer and Benediction. This is open ($10 deposit). Register: (405) 373- Rosary is said every weekday at 2.30 to all. St. Francis is located at 1910 0804 or mail registration form. Bring p.m. All are welcome. 23 Pre-Cana. A day for couples NW 19th (just two blocks east of a sack lunch. Monastery Library. preparing for the Sacrament of Penn), Oklahoma City. 15 Assumption of the Blessed Marriage. To register, contact the 4 Weekly Adoration of the Virgin Mary - Holy Day of Office of Family Life at (405) 721- 1 First Friday Sacred Heart Mass Blessed Sacrament at Christ the Obligation 8944. at the Catholic Pastoral Center. King Catholic Church, located one Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament block north of Wilshire, halfway 16 Mindfulness Meditation For an up-to-date calendar, go to is at 5:30 p.m. with the Sacrament of between Penn and May at 8005 Retreat with Debra Luther, LPC catharchdioceseokc.org Oklahoma Catholics Challenged to Help Promote Justice As I complete my first year at my responsibility to make the USCCB Statement faith tradition. If you know of others Catholic Charities as the associate Church’s voice heard on various leg- on stem-cell who might like to be added to that director for Advocacy, Outreach and islative issues promoting or negative- research, poverty Distribution List, please share this Legal Services, the words of Pope ly impacting, as the case may be, issues to be dealt information with them and let them Benedict XVI In Deus Caritas Est human life, human dignity and social with at the G8 meet- know they are welcome to join the continue to help me define the scope justice. ing in Japan, Distribution List. Once you are on the of my role as a legislative advocate. However, another part of my job is economic trends in Distribution List, please share your Pope Benedict instructs us that “The to keep other interested persons Oklahoma and comments with me about the content Church cannot and must not take aware of those issues and how health insurance By Richard or the issues addressed in an Action upon herself the political battle to Catholic Social Teaching impacts or issues to be dealt Klinge Alert. I improve my understanding of bring about the most just society addresses those issues and to en- with by a Health issues through dialogue with others. possible ... or replace the State ... [but] courage their participation in that Care Task Force appointed by the It takes all of us, working together, to at the same time she cannot and must quest for justice. Hopefully, this infor- Speaker of the Oklahoma House. make a difference on behalf of the not remain on the sidelines in the mation sharing will cause others to Many of you may already receive unborn, the poor, the marginalized fight for justice. She has to play her raise their voices on these issues as these Action Alerts, but if you don’t and anyone impacted by legislative part through rational argument and the political process struggles to find and would like to receive them, e-mail action or non-action relating to she has to reawaken the spiritual solutions which will both reflect me at [email protected] human life, human dignity and social energy without which justice, which justice and serve the common good. I and give me your name and e-mail justice. Through this process we will always demands sacrifice, cannot pre- periodically share information on address and I will add you to my help insure that people of faith will be vail and prosper and . . . [that] the those issues through the e-mailing of Action Alerts Distribution List. If you a part of that “spiritual reawakening” promotion of justice through efforts to Action Alerts which identify these have any questions, call me at (405) and that we will not “remain on the bring about openness of mind and will issues, discuss the impact of Catholic 523-3000. sidelines in the fight for justice.” to the demands of the common good is Social Teaching and a recommended Please feel free to add your name Klinge can be reached at something which concerns the Church course of action. As an example, and e-mail to my Action Alerts [email protected] or deeply.” In my role as advocate, it is Action Alerts in July 2008 address the Distribution List regardless of your (405) 523-3000. SC for July 27 FINAL.qxd 7/29/2008 11:26 AM Page 20

20 Sooner Catholic ● July 27, 2008