soonercatholic.org September 13, 2020 archokc.org Go Make Disciples Communion connects us. We are one in Christ.

uring the past cen- tury, Catholic Char- ities of the Archdi- ocese of City has served as a “safeD place” for many Oklahomans during difficult and challenging times. CCAOKC has served the com- munity through the Great Depres- sion, the Dust Bowl, World Wars I and II, the bomb- ing and numerous natural disas- ters. Clients at CCAOKC are not merely numbers, and the gener- ous gifts received by our support- ers are not merely numbers either. They all are part of the fabric that weaves hope and purpose into the lives of the community. “Communion connects us. We are one in Christ.” “I’m kind of a numbers guy. I like to tell the client statistics In a video for Catholic Charities, Emmanuel Vargas shared how he was helped after a tornado by going to St. ’s Counseling Center. Photo Avery Holt/Sooner Catholic. continued on page 8

Kendra Miller named Religious Educator of the Lt. Cody Koelsch, commander of Year the Oklahoma City Police Honor Guard, presents a flag to a family during training. Photo provided.

Catholic police chaplains bring faith to those in need Kendra Miller and Archbishop Coakley. Photo Fran Kozakowski/Sooner Catholic. By Charles Albert he recites when he leaves home. The Sooner Catholic “I supervise four other officers and due to the stresses of the By Sooner Catholic Staff position, I recommend that they Lt. Cody Koelsch with the Okla- seek help through the Wellness CHANDLER – Kendra Miller homa City Police Department Program and or the Chaplain from Our Lady of Sorrows Catho- said he owes his life to the Cath- Program,” Koelsch said. lic Church in Chandler was named olic chaplains office. He carries Koelsch said a week after Fa- the 2020 Archbishop Paul S. Coak- an extra layer of protection in ther Brian Buettner, of ley Religious Educator of the Year addition to his bullet-proof vest – Joseph Old Cathedral during the Catechetical Conference a special card with the prayer to Saint the that continued on page 16 continued on page 4 2 September 13, 2020 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic September 13, 2020 3

Put Out Into the Deep Luke 5:4 Find more Bishop chairmen issue statement for fifth news on the anniversary of World Day of Prayer for Communion connects us. website We are one in Christ. By Sooner Catholic Staff the Care of Creation Additional coverage of Church and archdiocesan WASHINGTON – Archbishop anniversary of the World Day of with the Holy Father, who remind- our common home in the United news and events, only on Paul S. Coakley of Oklahoma City Prayer for the Care of Creation in ed us that ‘every member of the States to increase efforts toward In this issue of the Sooner Catholic, you will This year, because and Bishop J. Malloy of the . On this day human family can act as a thin ecological conversion during this www.soonercatholic.org. read several encouraging stories from clients of of a global pandemic a Rockford, respective chairmen of last year, Francis encour- yet unique and indispensable Season of Creation. May our Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklaho- new “disaster” crossed the U.S. Conference of Catholic aged the faithful to observe the thread in weaving a network of life prayers and our witness reflect a To send photos, event ma City who sought assistance and found com- all our paths and add- Archbishop Paul S. Coakley Bishops’ Committees on Domestic Season of Creation – an ecumen- that embraces everyone.’ To weave the words and deeds of Jesus, information or story ideas, passion in their times of need. They were helped ed additional strain Justice and Human Development ical initiative that begins Sept. 1 the network of life, we set our who ‘went about doing good and e-mail [email protected]. by your support through the Catholic Charities upon local resources. and International Justice and and ends on Oct. 4, the Feast of sights on the ‘Author of Life’ (Acts healing’” (Acts 10:38). Annual Appeal. Your Catholic Charities was able to garner more Peace, issued a pastoral mes- Saint – through 3:15) and pray for help to heal our Resources for responding to the a A Blue for First Every year, Catholic Charities assists those in funding (more than $500,000) to help aid the sage for the annual World Day of increased prayer and a simpler ailing planet. moral and spiritual challenges of Responders will be at 6:30 Prayer for the Care of Creation: lifestyle. “We invite every Catholic and all the ecological crisis can be found our community who are underserved, without people in our service areas who had lost their p.m. Oct. 8 at St. John “Sept. 1 marks the five-year “Once again, we unite in prayer people of good will who care for at usccb.org. proper shelter, or who are hungry, desperate or jobs, needed help with utilities to keep the lights Nepomuk in Yukon. Recep- fearful of their future. Extending Christ’s com- on or were about to be evicted from their homes tion to follow passion through the corporal works of mercy, and relied on our services to remain stable. The your Catholic Charities has more than 14 pro- staff at Catholic Charities never left and contin- a Archbishop’s Mass for grams to assist families and individuals through ued to serve all who entered its doors. That is all Medical Professionals will Oklahoma Catholic Women’s thanks to you! be at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 15 at Catholic Charities was The Cathedral of Our Lady able to do this because of of Perpetual Help in Oklaho- Conference announces date, ma City.Reception to follow. the generous donations of Speaker: Sister Mary Rachel thousands of donors like you keynote speaker Nerbun, R.S.M., M.D., St. who stepped up to help their Francis Hospital, Tulsa. neighbors, which is why the theme for this year’s appeal a A Red Mass for Legal By Judy Hilovsky lead. The new team is The Sooner Catholic is “Communion connects us. Professionals will be at 6:30 preparing an updated We are one in Christ.” p.m. Oct. 29 at St. Thomas website and organiz- Thanks to your faith and More University Parish in ing the 2021 confer- At a recent Mass, Archbishop Coakley belief in our mission of serv- Norman. Reception to follow. ence titled “Behold” thanked the past leadership team of the Okla- ing all, we will continue to Speaker: Teresa Collett, J.D., set for Feb. 27, at the homa Catholic Women’s Conference for their Embassy Suites in care for the poor, the margin- University of St. Thomas years of service and welcomed new officers. Norman. The con- alized and the frail. “For,” as School of Law. “We recognize these women who, for so many ference will feature our Lord says, “whatever you years, have dedicated themselves to prepar- a Become a seminarian keynote speaker Kim- do to the least of my broth- ing, planning and delivering this wonderful pen pal! Our seminarians berly Hahn, Catholic conference we have been privileged to have in ers, you do unto me.” are away from home for author and wife of the archdiocese. Ladies, thank you for your Archbishop Coakley and Fr. Alex Kroll with new and former officers of the Okla- Catholic Charities has months at a time during their Scott Hahn. homa Catholic Women’s Conference. Photo Diane Clay/Sooner Catholic. leadership of many years and bringing forward been in Oklahoma City for formation. While at seminary, Beckman said the this beautiful women’s conference and good 108 years and was recently they would like to hear from conference allows foundation that you have laid. God bless you,” acknowledged as the “Best people back home in Oklaho- “women to come to Archbishop Coakley said. God and ‘yes’ to spending time on themselves to Non-Profit” by the Okla- ma! To become a Seminarian know the Lord in a The mission of the Oklahoma Catholic Wom- homan’s Reader’s Choice Pen Pal, go online to archokc. deeper way as well as their Catholic faith and to help them grow in their faith, spend time with org/penpal, find their ad- en’s Conference is to provide an annual event share their love for God and their Catholic faith other women, to help them come to know who Awards for the 10th year in for Catholic women of Oklahoma. The goal is to dresses and write a note. together as women. Women should say ‘yes’ to they are in the light of God’s love for them.” a row. This means, our com- provide more knowledge of their Catholic munity supports the work faith as well as encourage them to receive happening here and for that I the many graces available through fre- am grateful. quent reception of the Sacraments and Please consider a gift to the the study of Sacred Scripture. crisis pregnancy, family counseling, disaster 2020 Catholic Charities Annual Appeal. Help us recovery and family support services designed to continue to tell life-changing stories of mercy, alleviate the burdens of poverty and promote the compassion and healing that express our Catho- Oklahoma Catholic dignity of every person. lic faith in action. Women’s Conference @archokc Feb. 27 in Norman Archdiocese of Tickets $55 before Dec. 1 Oklahoma City $65 after Dec. 1 Archbishop Coakley’s Calendar Arquidiócesis de facebook.com/OCWConference Oklahoma City @okcatholicwomen okcatholicwomen.com The following events are part of Archbishop Coakley’s official calendar.

Sept. 14 – USCCB Pro-Life Committee and Religious Liberty Committee virtual meetings God of bounty, Sept. 15-16 – USCCB Administrative Committee virtual meetings your son Jesus embraced During Mass, Meg Beckman, OCWC Sept. 17 – Resurrection Cemetery Board meeting, 9 a.m., Catholic Pastoral Center poverty and taught that the chairwoman, called forward Michelle Sept. 17 – Senior Staff meeting, 10 a.m., CPC poor are blessed, for “theirs is Schaefer, Theresa Hurt and Joanne Sept. 17 – Mass, 11:30 a.m., St. Chapel, CPC (live-streamed) the Kingdom of God.” Help us Cromer and presented each a bouquet Sept. 18 – Catholic Foundation of Oklahoma Board of Directors meeting, 1 p.m., CPC to step out of our certainties of flowers and thanked them “for their Sept. 20 – Mass and dedication of Narthex, 11 a.m., St. Andrew Dung-Lac, OKC and comforts and keep our amazing and beautiful work they have Sept. 22 – Presbyteral Council meeting, 9:30 a.m., CPC eyes fixed on him, so we can done with this ministry.” Sept. 22 – Mass, 11:30 a.m., St. Francis de Sales Chapel, CPC (live-streamed) both see and serve him in the In addition to Beckman, the new con- Sept. 24 – Senior Staff meeting, 10 a.m., CPC faces of the poor. ference committee includes Stephanie – Catholic Charities Board of Directors meeting, 11:30 a.m., Catholic Charities Offices, OKC Sept. 24 Amen. Stovall, formation committee lead, Laura Sept. 25 – Mass and keynote address for Catholic Schools Education Institute, 8:30 a.m., CPC Murray, hospitality committee lead, and Sept. 26 – St. Vincent de Paul Society annual Mass, 6 p.m., CPC Natalie Mollman, promotion committee 4 September 13, 2020 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic September 13, 2020 5

Meet the continued from page 1 religious education catechist at tionships with Christ and others. “Fatima” her parish for 13 years. She also She respects her students and ARCHDIOCESE OF OKLAHOMA CITY serves her parish as a lector, their parents wherever they are held virtually Aug. 29 at the Vacation Bible School coordina- along their faith journey.” By John Mulderig Catholic Pastoral Center in Okla- tor, parish Fall Festival organizer, Miller’s nominator also said she This is part of a series to introduce the seminarians of homa City. parish council member and with has a strong sense of communi- the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Miller has served as an ele- the community food pantry. ty, models what it means to be a mentary school teacher for 27 Catechists are nominated by servant leader and, whatever she NEW YORK – “Fatima” (Pic- years and has volunteered as a clergy and ministry leaders. does, she does so with a joyful turehouse), a fact-based drama Most Reverend Miller’s pastor, Fa- heart. from director and co-writer Mar- Paul S. Coakley ther Timothy Ruckel The other two finalist were Ali- co Pontecorvo, recounts what Archbishop of Oklahoma City stated, “I have seen cia Rios of Catholic Grant may rank as the most remark- Publisher how God has worked Church in Norman and Chase Carro able series of religious events in Kendra’s life, which Hohnke of Sacred Heart Catholic of modern times. Namely, the in turn helps her to Church in El Reno. 1917 apparitions of the Diane Clay make a lasting impact The Catholic Foundation of Mary (Joana Ribeiro) to three Editor on the lives and hearts Oklahoma bestows the award ev- shepherd children near the Por- of the students and ery year for “outstanding leader- tuguese city of the title. Arturo is charged with carrying out its anti-cler- Dana Attocknie the overall parish.” ship in Catholic education.” This Despite a few flaws, believers will find Ponte- ical and more broadly anti-religious policies. So In Miller’s nomi- year the Catechetical Conference Managing Editor What is your home parish? corvo’s chronicle congenial fare that’s suitable alleged visits from the “Lady of the Rosary,” as nation letter she is featured Archbishop Coakley and My home parish is St. John the for all but the youngest viewers. Mary identified herself to Lucia and her com- described as, “a great Deacon Keith Strohm from M3 Baptist Catholic Church in Edmond. The narrative is told in flashbacks during a panions, are the last thing he needs. model of a genuine Ministries. Volume 42, Number 17 1980s interview between fictional Professor Nich- “Fatima” successfully portrays piety without catechist who is con- Both Archbishop Coakley and ols (Harvey Keitel), a dyed-in-the-wool skeptic, yielding to sentimentality. But, it fails to wrap cerned not just with Deacon Strohm’s addresses can What seminary do you attend? Dcn. Keith Strohm, from M3 Ministries, was the I attend Kenrick-Glennon Seminary and the only one of the trio to have survived into up the loose ends of its story. the knowledge of faith, be viewed online at www.archokc. Sooner Catholic Newspaper guest speaker at the 2020 Catechetical Confer- in St. Louis, Mo. adulthood, Carmelite Sister Lucia dos Santos The justly celebrated “Miracle of the Sun” that but in nurturing rela- org/catechetical-conference. 7501 Northwest Expressway ence. Photo Fran Kozakowski/Sooner Catholic. (Sonia Braga). As the two spar over the reality of occurred during Mary’s last appearance on Oct. Oklahoma City, OK 73132 If it is God’s will, what year will what Sister Lucia experienced, the scene shifts to 13 provides the movie with a spectacular built-in (405) 721-1810 you be ordained a priest? the very different times of her childhood. conclusion. Yet, the gentle dispute between Sister Fax: (405) 721-5210 God willing, I will be ordained a The screenplay, on which Pontecorvo collab- Lucia and Professor Nichols is left hanging – nor priest in 2026. orated with Valerio D’Annunzio and Barbara do we get a sense of resolution about the strained E-mail: [email protected] Nicolosi, emphasizes the context of World War relationships that prevailed before the children’s Mailing Address: From the Archives … What advice would you give to I within which Mary’s message of prayer and veracity was so strikingly vindicated. A photo series from George Rigazzi, archdiocesan archivist P.O. Box 32180 someone discerning a call to the repentance as the path to peace was delivered. This sense of incompleteness notwithstand- Oklahoma City, OK 73123 priesthood? Thus, we see the young Lucia (Stephanie Gil) ing, “Fatima” is a welcome affirmation of faith in utreach to the Hispanic commu- Be open to anything God may ask accompany her mother, Maria (Lucia Moniz), to the midst of worldwide challenges to health and nity of Oklahoma is not a recent Visit us online at of you and anything that he may the periodical public announcement by Fatima’s tranquility. If nothing else made it timely, the phenomenon. In fact, the Discalced want for you in your life, just as Our mayor, Arturo (Goran Visnjic), of local casualties reflection that Jacinta, aged 9, and Francisco, at www.soonercatholic.org O Carmelite Order was present as early as Lady and St. Joseph were open to in the global struggle. Though devout, Maria is a year older, both perished in the influenza pan- 1914 to minister to this population. him. And, be most generous with consumed by anxiety over the fate of Lucia’s old- demic that began in 1918 would serve to do so. Visit the archdiocesan website Having escaped Pancho Villa, the revolu- your response. er brother Manuel (Joao Arrais) who is serving Sister Lucia, by contrast, lived a long life, at www.archokc.org tionary figure in Mexico who despised all with the Portuguese forces. dying in 2005 at 97. Her cousins were canonized things Spanish and Catholic (the Carmelites What do you look forward to The other primary focus of the script is on on the centennial of the first Fatima apparition, were guilty of both), three priests arrived in The Sooner Catholic most about becoming a priest? the family and community conflicts that arose May 13, 2017. The cause to raise her to the Oklahoma City to meet with Bishop Meer- (USPS 066-910) is published What I look forward to most about when news of Mary’s appearances to Lucia and same status is currently active. schaert and seek admission to the Diocese of being a priest is the intimate com- her two younger cousins, Jacinta (Alejandra The film contains mature themes and blood- biweekly except for once in Oklahoma. munion with Jesus and his Church Howard) and Francisco (Jorge Lamelas), spread. less images of combat violence. The Catho- January and July by the On Oct. 13, 1914, the bishop gave permis- through the Sacraments and daily Initially, both Maria and the local parish priest, lic News Service classification is A-II – adults Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. sion for the order to serve “ad experimen- prayer. I have a huge heart for fam- Father Ferreira (Joaquim De Almeida), are un- and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association tum” and designated , Okla., as ilies, probably in part because I was derstandably doubtful and try to convince the rating is PG-13 – parents strongly cautioned. The newspaper is not responsible their center. This small community was the blessed with such a wonderful family kids to recant. Some material may be inappropriate for children abode of several Mexican workers toiling in for unsolicited material. growing up, so it would give me the So, too, does Arturo. As an official of ’s under 13. the coal mines of southeastern Oklahoma. Carmelite seminarians in 1922 greatest joy to serve and support the Copyright © 2020 Sooner Catholic nascent First Republic, established in 1910, Mulderig is on the staff of Catholic News Service. Father Eduardo Soler arrived from his exile families of the Christian faithful and in Cuba to head the mission. Mass was of- house the priests, a chapel and classrooms by of the whole world. Subscription rate: $25 per year fered in the towns of Gowen, Adamson, Dow 1922. The print shop was constructed, moving for all who are not members of the and Savanna. the magazine publication to Oklahoma City, and Name one thing that every Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. The winter was particularly harsh in Pittsburgh Catholic needs to know. that year. Water in the sacristy continually froze published the diocesan newspaper, The Catholic Periodical postage paid at Home (later the Southwest Courier). Jesus loves you. This is the most and on one occasion froze in the chalice during important thing for each person, no Oklahoma City, OK 73125. Mass. Several more priests and brothers came The community grew and the necessity of a church to match the growth was critical. Receiv- matter who you are, to know, to be- from Cuba and worked in parishes in Lehigh, lieve and to trust. POSTMASTER: Send address Hartshorne and Langston. In 1916, Bishop Meer- ing permission from the new bishop, , their initial design called for an elabo- changes to the Sooner Catholic, schaert assigned a Carmelite as pastor of Harts- horne and that mining town became the center of rate $500,000 church, a princely sum for 1926. P.O. Box 32180, Oklahoma City, Why choose a life of sacrificial the order’s activities for the next five years. The Fearing a threat by the Ku Klux Klan that the OK 73123. structure would be destroyed if it continued as love? fathers would serve that town until 1973. “God is love, and whoever remains planned and the desire to build something more In 1920, Father Bernardo Brotons founded in love remains in God and God in moderate in mission territory, Kelley approved a the Little Flower Magazine that began publi- him” (1 John 4: 16). We were made $100,000 budget. cation in Hartshorne, encouraging devotion to for God, Who is love. Therefore, we The high (still in place) was an art piece their patron, then-Blessed Therese of Lisieux. were made for love. The only way of epic proportions. Still in process, it was not At the close of 1920, the magazine had 40,000 to true joy, the joy that comes from installed and dedicated until a year after the subscribers. Peaking at 100,000 circulation, the God, is through a life of sacrificial church was formally dedicated on March 24, proceeds would help to build a new complex and love. the beautiful Little Flower Catholic Church. 1927, as Church of the Little Flower (Blessed In 1921, Bishop Meerschaert requested that Therese was canonized in 1925) and Our Lady of their headquarters be moved from Hartshorne Mount Carmel. to Oklahoma City and designated them The church and the Carmelites are still essen- to oversee all ministry to the Mexican tial to the service of the Spanish-speaking com- To learn more about seminary, contact: people of Oklahoma. Father Soler munity as five masses in Spanish are celebrated Rev. Brian Buettner at was named the superior. Quickly, every weekend. It is as vibrant and important as [email protected] or (405) 721-9351. The Sooner Catholic okcvocations.com is supported through the they built a three -story building to anytime in its history. Annual Catholic Appeal and Sooner Catholic Communications Appeal. ARCHDIOCESE OF OKLAHOMA CITY ARCHIVES 6 September 13, 2020 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic September 13, 2020 7 Real Life Disciples The spiritual journey

When’s the last time you visited a cemetery? on death, dying and the end times. That scrip- “We Most of us don’t frequent them, and it’s prob- tural theme fits with the end of the year, and have seen ably the last place we would go visit without a also matches the fall season unfolding around how every Jim Beckman real reason – attend a graveside ceremony after us – leaves falling, trees turning bare, things soul – Executive Director a funeral, visit the gravesite of a loved one, turning first colorful, then brown and falling to even if of the Secretariat for etc. I suppose it may sound morbid, but I have the ground to die. In some ways, the Liturgical burdened Evangelization and made it a practice of visiting cemeteries. season tries to focus our attention in the same with sin I recently was up in the Saint Louis area way I started out this article. This earth is not (2 Tim. speaking at a conference. As I prepared for our home, and this life is not what we were 3:6), en- an afternoon run one of the days I was there, created for. There’s so much more! meshed I found a cemetery on my route, Mount Hope The real aim of life is to get to heaven, our in vice, ensnared by allurements of pleasure, a Cemetery in Belleville, Ill. It immediately real home. Throughout the history of the captive in exile, imprisoned in the body, caught brought back memories of my college days Church, many spiritual writers have taught in the mind (Ps. 68:3), fixed in mire, bound when I used to run through a cemetery several about this and have helped define the path for to its members, a slave to care, distracted by times a week. There’s something about a ceme- how we get there. I had the privilege of teach- business, afflicted with sorrow, wandering tery that helps me center, and more important- ing a class about this path to our deacons this and straying, filled with anxious forebodings ly remember what the important things in life past Spring, what the Church calls the Spiritu- and uneasy suspicions, a stranger in a hostile really are. al Journey of the Soul. land (Ex. 2:22), and, according to the prophet, I’ve made it a practice over the years when- Countless and spiritual writers have sharing the defilement of the dead and counted ever visiting one to search for a tombstone of written about this journey, and what is quite with those who go down into hell (Bar. 3:11). someone who died at the same age I currently striking is the amazing similarity in how they Every soul, I say, standing thus under condem- am. I found a couple in Mount Hope. It’s sober- describe it. Through the centuries, three stages nation and without hope, has the power to turn ing to call to mind that my life is fragile, and I to the spiritual life have emerged from all these and find it cannot only breathe the fresh air never know the day or the hour I will be called varied writings: the Purgative Way, the Illumi- of hope of pardon and mercy, but also dare to home. native Way and the Unitive Way. I used a text aspire to the nuptials of the Word, not fearing As I looked around Mount Hope, I saw one by Ralph Martin for the class I taught with the to enter into alliance with God or to bear the tombstone after another – some more impres- deacons, “The Fulfillment of All Desire.” It real- sweet yoke of love (Mt. 11:30) with the King of sive than others, but who was taking notice of ly is quite good, and I highly recommend it. angels” (Pg. 101). that? In the end, that’s all that is left of this At close to 500 pages, though, it’s not a quick As we enter this fall season and approach life. A little piece of rock on the ground mark- read. It’s more of a prayer-chair side table book Advent, it’s a good time to reflect on your own ing the years we lived. After all our accomplish- that you will continue to read and reference for end. You don’t necessarily have to go visit a ments, all our built-up possessions, our popu- years. cemetery like I did. But, it could be good to larity and expertise – just a tombstone with our “The Fulfillment of All Desire” is a compi- prayerfully reflect on some questions like these: name. lation of writings from numerous saints and Would you be ready to go home if you were This time of year always marks the final doctors on Christian spirituality – Saint Cath- called? Have you been making progress on the stretch of what we call “Ordinary Time” in the erine of Siena, Saint Therese of Lisieux, Saint spiritual journey toward your ultimate aim, Liturgical calendar. It culminates on the Feast Theresa of Avila, Saint , Saint heaven? What hindrances and obstacles are on of Christ the King in late November, and the Ignatius of Loyola, Saint , the path for you? new year starts on the first Sunday of Advent. Saint Francis de Sales, etc. It’s a powerhouse of As Saint Paul says, “Behold, now is the ac- If you listen closely at Mass in the coming encouragement for our spiritual journey, with ceptable time; behold, now is the day of salva- weeks, the readings will focus more and more great quotes like this from Saint Bernard: tion!”

“Dreams for your grandchild”

By Br. Benet Exton, O.S.B. He provides a few strategies or grandchild in the faith. Some of 51 suggestions into how to do this. The Sooner Catholic recommendations into how to go these stories sound a bit idealistic The sixth step is to stay in contact about doing this. He is aware that and for upper class people. with the child in any way possi- many grandparents do not live near In the second part, Hunt pro- ble. The final step is to inspire the Allen Hunt is a 2008 convert to their grandchildren and he pro- vides seven steps to go about child to remember their grandpar- Catholicism and the author of sev- vides suggestions into how to keep influencing ent once they eral books. He is a grandfather of in contact with their grandchildren. grandchil- are gone. four. He is a senior advisor at the He tells stories from his life and dren to In the epi- Dynamic Catholic Institute. Allen of others that he knows. These keep their logue, Hunt Hunt has written this book, stories make the book lively and faith. Some encourages “Dreams for Your Grandchild: provide interesting anecdotes are quite grandparents The hidden power of a Catholic about how to encourage grandchil- common to do what grandparent,” to encourage Cath- dren to learn about and to prac- sense but they can to olic grandparents to be involved tice their Catholic faith. Hunt and are worthwhile in reminding support and with the faith growth of their other grandparents and parents people. The first step is to love nurture their grandchildren. are concerned about their grand- the grandchild lavishly with a grandchil- children and children keeping the personal touch by being present dren’s faith. faith. Many children who grow up or by staying in touch via phone Hunt hopes to be adults abandoned their faith or Face Time. that if grand- partly due to the lack of encour- The second step is to pray for parents do the agement or example from their and to encourage the child to pray things he suggests that fewer chil- grandparents or parents. Some for their grandparents and others. dren becoming teenagers or adults lose their faith due to influence The third step is to have a dream will not lose their faith. from the society they live in. for the child, but also to encourage This book is recommended to The book is divided into two the child to have their own dream grandparents looking for a strategy parts. The first part sets the stage in growing up in the faith. The into how to keep their grandchil- as to the problem of children los- fourth step is to model living out dren in the faith. This year Nation- ing their faith and how grandpar- the faith. al Grandparents Day is Sept. 13. ents can help prevent this. Hunt The fifth step is to encourage Br. Benet Exton, O.S.B., St. Greg- tells stories of him and others good habits in the child and to live ory’s Abbey, Shawnee, is a free- being successful in keeping their these habits themselves. Hunt has lance writer for the Sooner Catholic. 8 September 13, 2020 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic September 13, 2020 9 Catholic Charities Your gift keeps giving!

Staffan Davis shared her story in a Catholic Charities video about how the Sanctuary Women’s Development Center helped her.

Watch Emmanuel’s and Staffan’s stories at ccaokc.org.

Photo Avery Holt/ Sooner Catholic.

continued from page 1 until Monica started talking me and has been able to find employ- to come together and show one through ‘what is trauma and how ment and housing. another mercy and compassion. does it affect us?’ We can’t cure “Staffan is a beautiful individu- Let us remind them what con- produced by each of our pro- trauma, but rather, we manage al,” said Jessica Nuno, director of nects us by remembering we are grams. So, it is really good for me trauma,” he said. Sanctuary Women’s Development all one in Christ.” to have this quote from Saint Te- Had Emmanuel not come to Center. “We are so blessed to In May, Catholic Charities will resa right outside my office,” said Catholic Charities for counseling, have her as part of our Sanctuary celebrate five years of serving Patrick Raglow, executive director his future was uncertain. family.” in the new building at 1232 N. of Catholic Charities of the Arch- “I believe I would be a tomb- “Catholic Charities serves any- Classen Blvd. in Oklahoma City diocese of Oklahoma City. “And to stone and my death date would one in need regardless of their and begin the next 100 years of share with you these powerful sto- be Nov. 14, 2016. I trust Catholic faith, political party or cultural impacting lives. ries of Emmanuel and Staffan for Charities with my life,” he said. background,” Archbishop Coakley Watch Emmanuel’s and this year’s appeal because each of During the past 108 years, the said. “It is our time, as Catholics, Staffan’s stories at ccaokc.org. our big-number statistics refers values of Catholic Charities Executive Director Patrick Raglow and Archbishop Coakley at Catholic Charities in Oklahoma City. Photo Avery Holt/Sooner Catholic. to an even bigger story: individual have held steadfast in times success. Thank you for partnering of great social and economic with Catholic Charities and our changes. In each generation, clients, witnessing miracles in the children have been nurtured ope Francis is right when he states, “the best of charity in Oklahoma City and was writing from a detention center near the making.” and protected, families have is a mutual exchange.” Personally, I have found when we border awaiting probable deportation. She was not requesting help for Many Oklahomans find them- received support and guidance, accompany someone in need, we address a need of our herself, but simply asked if we could do something to show her chil- selves facing situations that seem refugees and immigrants have own in return. As the executive director of Catholic Char- dren love at Christmas. She had four children who were all American hopeless or beyond their control. been welcomed, victims of di- ities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, I invite you to citizens. The eldest was 19 and was working two jobs to provide for Without a way to understand and saster have been comforted and shareP with your neighbors in need – not just for their benefit, but for his 10-year-old brother and two sisters who were 14 and 7. the frail and elderly have been yours as well as we begin our 2020-2021 Catholic Charities Annual Even though I was tired, I knew Catholic Charities could help. I respected and uplifted in their Appeal. contacted her son at work and confirmed the information and their final days; this will continue to I hope by giving that you feel the joy we as staff experience every situation. “I trust Catholic be the work of Catholic Char- day when we share your gifts to open doors to hope, new circum- Because of your donations, we were able to provide a gift card in ities. The hopes and plans of stances and breathtaking transformation. Sometimes these are big his mother’s and your (Catholic Charities’) name so the family could Charities with CCAOKC continue to depend on stories, sometimes they are small, but all are impactful. enjoy the holidays despite their tragic situation. I delivered the card my life.” building bridges with the com- Catholic Charities always is busy as we field more than 39,000 to his workplace and later received a text message from him stat- munity in central and western phone calls in a single year, but it seemed like the end of the last ing, “I’m finally off from work and I first wanted to thank you from Oklahoma. quarter was more active than usual. the bottom of my heart for helping us out during our darkest times. - Emmanuel Vargas Staffan Davis One of the reasons for the increased activity was a new require- I spoke with my mom and she asked if I can thank you for her as Sanctuary Women’s Develop- ment to obtain state and local government concurrence to continue well. Have a Merry Christmas and all is well.” ment Center supports basic hu- resettlement activity for refugee arrivals in Oklahoma. We received Even though he texted, “all is well,” it would not have seemed well man rights by offering homeless this direction in October 2019 and had to get written approval from for most of us. We later learned the children were sleeping on the face these situations, they can and low-income women and county officials in Tulsa, and Oklahoma counties by the end floor in their apartment with few clothes, no furniture and not much adversely affect lives. Catholic children resources, providing of the year. This required a lot of phone calls, e-mails, letters and of anything. I connected them with our excellent case managers at Charities offers a wide range of support and advocacy to allevi- county commissioner meetings along with equivalent efforts with Catholic Charities and we got them help, including bedding, house- counseling services to help people ate the effects of poverty within Governor Stitt’s office. hold items and more. The text message from him on that day was dealing with such issues to pro- the community and providing Finally, on Dec. 23, we secured the final approval from the com- the best gift I could have received at Christmas. vide ways to cope with problems tools to overcome homeless- missioners of Oklahoma County. Along with all the other day-to-day The children still had a difficult path ahead of them, but they no and overcome them. ness. work of running Catholic Charities, I was exhausted. longer were walking it alone. As much as I hadn’t wanted to open Emmanuel Vargas Staffan Davis entered Sanc- To be clear, Catholic Charities does not “bring” refugees into that letter, the opportunity given to me to help them because of you Emmanuel Vargas was an tuary in 2018 after being Oklahoma – our U.S. government handles those details after a long was more beautiful than I can express. elementary school student when homeless for one year and 10 screening process, but our work begins when these refugees arrive. As we begin our newest campaign, we have chosen the theme he came to CCAOKC for coun- months. She had been living in Sometimes we get two days to two weeks notice of their arrival, and “Communion connects us. We are one in Christ.” Every day we have seling services. He had survived her car in a Wal-Mart parking we prepare to meet them at the airport and help them begin their stories like this coming from Catholic Charities and I invite you to the 2013 Moore tornado and was lot. new lives in our community. It is a wonderful mission-filled program be a part of this story and so many others. By sharing your gifts, experiencing trauma. “I felt hopeless, despair, some- with amazing stories, but one that often is misunderstood because you share in the blessing returned and the knowledge that we all are “He lost faith and confidence in times I didn’t feel at all; Sanctu- most people do not work with refugees or know much about the connected. Thank you for being a part of this great mutual blessing. his world,” said Monica Palmer, ary gave me hope,” she said. process. LPC, senior director, Clinical and Staffan entered day classes I am a little ashamed to admit it, but toward the end of December, Thank you and may God bless you, Legal Services. Emmanuel re- at Sanctuary to establish goals I received a letter that looked like it came from a state prison and I ceived counseling for seven years and get her life back on track. chose to set it aside. After leaving the county commissioner meeting and cites Catholic Charities as “I met women from all walks on Dec. 23, I went back to my office. No one was working that day the reason he is a thriving college of life and it gave me strength,” as we had closed by then for the Christmas holiday. I saw the letter student today. she said. and decided it was time to open it. Patrick Raglow, Executive Director “I had no idea PTSD was a thing She is now living on her own The letter was from a woman named Yasmin who had been arrested Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City 10 September 13, 2020 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic September 13, 2020 11 Padre Nuestro … Our Father

When my first son was born, my started the prayer in English. We dren, holy friends, holy profession- wife and I had to make a decision. knelt. I began, “In the name of the als, holy priests or religious, holy Luis Soto I am from Mexico and my wife Father, and of the Son, and of the spouses, holy parents, etc. – holy Assistant Executive is from Venezuela, so we speak Holy Spirit.” With a puzzled look, in every aspect of their lives. Sim- Director of the primarily in Spanish at home, but he hesitantly blessed himself re- ply put, that they go to heaven and Secretariat for had to decide the language we peating what I said. enjoy eternal friendship with God. Evangelization and were going to use to speak to our I then folded my hands; he did Heaven is where I want to be Catechesis children. the same. I said, “Our Father, Who with them, forever. My concern for We made the decision that I will art in heaven ...,” and he repeat- them is timeless. I don’t just care speak only English to him, and ed. After a moment he stopped, about their life here on earth, I day and it will continue to happen my wife will speak exclusively looked at me and said, in English: care about their eternal life. to millions of young people unless Spanish. It is amazing how it has “Daddy, that is English, and we So, back to praying with my we change our ways. unfolded. He has something like a are praying, and prayer is done in son. The experience of my prayer Whether I like it or not, because “chip” in his brain. Spanish,” and he laughed out loud with my son conveys an everyday of a decision I made, my son’s first Whenever he is looking at me, he at his daddy’s “mistake.” reality. It is clear that with each language is and will be English. will speak English, but whenever As a father, my main priorities generation we are losing Catholics, He will speak in English most of he is looking at mom, Spanish will are the education of my children particularly Hispanic Catholics. his life. This is how he will com- come out of his mouth. It doesn’t and the life of my family. So, his The fastest growing group among municate with his friends, at work, matter where he is or who else is reaction left me thinking for days Hispanics are the “nones,” unaffili- school, etc. If my children think in the room. So far, it has worked and now years. What is the ulti- ated, people with no religion at all. the Catholic faith is something only wonders for us, he is fully bilin- mate goal in the education of my Growing at a faster rate than any experienced in the language of their gual, and we are proud of it. At children? How will I know I have other ethnic or racial group, includ- parents, and in the privacy of their end, being bilingual is a plus, not fulfilled my mission as a parent? ing white Catholics. It is estimated home, they will leave the faith be- a minus. Is parenting only about providing that about 21 percent of Hispanics hind the day they leave my house. This bilingual reality, however, food, clothing, education, devices, today are considered “nones,” up They’ll participate only in certain wasn’t part of our Catholic life. etc.? Have I fulfilled my mission as from 3 percent in 1990. traditional celebrations not neces- During his first years, we almost a father if I get my son or daughter In ministering to the Hispanic sarily by faith, but by tradition. exclusively attended Mass in to graduate from school? Will I be community in the , If my goal is that my children Spanish, he learned his prayers in satisfied if they are rich? What, ul- we have insisted upon using become saints, I must ensure that Spanish, and at age 5, he was at- timately, will tell me whether I did exclusively Spanish in all environ- their faith is part of their entire tending his kindergarten religious a good as a parent? ments, including religious edu- lives. Therefore, English should be class in Spanish as well. Every Although I believe these are cation and youth ministry. Many part of their faith practice as well. night before bed, I was praying in important, I’m convinced that my times, it works. But, I believe that Faith goes beyond cultural ex- Spanish with him. I would usually primary mission as a parent is if my child doesn’t learn to pray pressions. If I want my son to live start the prayer and he’d repeat that my children become saints. in English, and to live and explain his Catholic faith and be holy, he what I say. Sometimes he impro- Not only that they become men his faith in English, and know that must be able to live it, express it vised and those became the best of and women of kindness, like the his faith – the faith inherited from and defend it in his first language. all prayers. rich young man of the Gospel (Mt his parents – is something he can We can pray, praise and thank One night, when he was 5, I 19: 16-22) who was a good man, share in today’s society, he will God in English too. Thank good- decided to change the game, and but that they are saints – holy chil- lose it. That is happening every ness God is multilingual!

Jobs Box

Cook – OKC payable, accruals, and fixed assets. online check imaging system with Accounts payable specialist The Catholic Pastoral Center Personnel administration respon- the school’s bank, order and main- Catholic Charities for the Arch- seeks an experienced cook for a sibilities include oversite of the pay- tain the school’s office supplies. diocese of Oklahoma City is seek- part-time position. Flexible sched- roll system, personnel records, and Applicants must have two years of ing a part-time accounts payable ule (approximately 25 hours per student financial aid applications accounts payable experience and specialist to record and summarize week), some evening and weekends. and awards. The position manag- experience with accounts payable financial transactions. Workdays The successful candidate will have es two business office employees. software. Send inquiries and re- are Monday through Wednesday a minimum of five years’ experience Applicants must hold a bachelor’s sumes to [email protected]. weekly. Office presence required in food service. Catering experi- degree in accounting or finance, for two days a week, with work- ence is preferred. Send resume to be proficient using Microsoft Office Night, weekend direct care staff at-home options available for a [email protected]. Applications applications, making presenta- The Rose Home is seeking night third day. Minimum requirements are available during regular busi- tions, and have experience using and weekend direct care staff to include high school diploma and ness hours at the Catholic Pastoral accounting software. The position assure the well-being and safety of at least three years’ experience Center, 7501 Northwest Express- requires attention to detail, strong residents (women and children) by in accounting, AP, AR; non-profit way, Oklahoma City 73132. communication skills, accuracy, ensuring compliance with house preferred. Send cover letter with re- and the ability to work well with expectations. Send resume to sume to Karen Kreger at kkreger@ Maintenance director - OKC parents and school staff. Bilin- [email protected]. ccaokc.org Corpus Christi Catholic Church gual in Spanish preferred. Send is seeking a maintenance director. inquiries and resumes to cfinsel@ Case manager level II – OKC Special education teacher - OKC This is a full-time position with mountstmary.org. Catholic Charities for the Archdi- Christ the King Catholic School benefits. Knowledge of plumbing, ocese of Oklahoma City is seeking is looking for an educator to work electric work, carpentry, handy- Accounts payable clerk/cashier a case manager level II to provide with students in the Supplemen- man work and lawn work are Mount St. Mary Catholic High emergency assistance, primarily tal Opportunities for Academic needed. Contact Fr. Danny Grover School is seeking an accounts focused on rent and utility assis- Readiness (SOAR) program. A at [email protected]. payable/cashier. Accounts payable tance but may assist other types of bachelor’s degree in education responsibilities include reviewing emergencies. Qualifications: high and special education certification Business manager – OKC invoices for proper approval, coding school diploma or GED; bachelor’s required. Send resume and cover Mount St. Mary Catholic High invoices to general ledger accounts, degree in social work or relat- letter to Amy Feighny, Christ the School is seeking an accountant scheduling payments and prepa- ed field preferred; three years of King Catholic School, 1905 Elm- to fill the school’s business man- ration of accounts payable checks. experience in case management hurst Ave., OKC 73120; afeighny@ ager position. The position reports Cashier duties include prepara- or community action; fluency in ckschool.com. Download teacher directly to the school principal. tion and processing of cash bags Spanish and English preferred; a application packet at archokc.org/ Accounting responsibilities include for school sports/club activities, combination of education and rel- careers. financial reporting, oversite of the balancing the vault and prepara- evant experience considered. Send general ledger, budgeting, accounts tion of cash deposits. Position will resumes to Theresa Flannery at To see more job openings, go on- receivable, investments, accounts deposit checks received utilizing an [email protected]. line to www.archokc.org/jobs-box. 12 September 13, 2020 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic September 13, 2020 13 Lánzate a lo más Profundo Luke 5:4 Padre Nuestro … Our Father

Cuando nació mi primer hijo, mi mo. Y dije, “Our Father, Who art in Es claro que perdemos católicos esposa y yo teníamos que tomar heaven ...,” y él repetía. Después generación tras generación, partic- La comunión nos conecta. Luis Soto una decisión. Yo soy de México y de un momento se detuvo, mi miró ularmente católicos hispanos. Subdirector mi esposa es de Venezuela, así que y dijo, en inglés: “Papi, eso es in- El grupo religioso de más rápi- Ejecutivo del do crecimiento entre los hispanos Somos uno en Cristo. el idioma que hablamos primera- glés, y estamos haciendo oración, Secretariado de son los “nones”, los que no están mente en casa es el español, pero la oración es en español”, y se rio Evangelización y debíamos decidir el idioma en que a carcajadas por el “error” de su afiliados a ningún grupo religioso, Catequesis personas que no creen en nada. En esta edición del Sooner Catholic, en- Año tras año, Caridades Católicas asiste a aban ayuda íbamos a hablar a nuestros hijos. papi. Tomamos la decisión que yo le Como padre, mis prioridades Entre los hispanos, este grupo contrarán varias historias conmovedoras de los desprotegidos de nuestra comunidad. A para pagar sus hablaría en inglés y que mi es- principales son la educación de crece más rápido que en cualquier beneficiarios de los servicios de Caridades aquellos que no tienen donde vivir, o los que recibos de luz, posa le hablaría exclusivamente mis hijos y la vida de mi familia. otro grupo étnico o racial, incluy- glés la mayor parte de su vida. Lo tienen hambre, o desesperados y con miedo o estaban a Arzobispo Pablo S. Coakley Católicas de la Arquidiócesis de Oklahoma en español. Es verdaderamente Así que su reacción me dejó pen- endo entre los católicos blancos. usarán para comunicarse con sus al futuro. Extendi- punto de ser sorprendente cómo nos ha fun- sando por días, y ahora por años. Se estima que el 21 por ciento amigos, en su trabajo, en la escue- endo la compasión desalojados de cionado la estrategia. Nuestro hijo ¿Cuál es mi expectativa última en de los hispanos se consideran la, etc. Si mis hijos piensan que la de Cristo a través de sus hogares y dependían de nuestra ayuda tiene algo así como un “chip” en su la educación de mis hijos? ¿Cómo “nones”, cuando en 1990 eran solo fe católica es algo que solo puede obras de misericor- para permanecer en ellos. El personal de cerebro. puedo saber si he cumplido mi el 3 por ciento. ser experimentado en español y en dia corporales, tus Caridades Católicas siguió dando la cara y Si me está viendo a mí, habla misión como padre? ¿Ser padre En el ministerio hispano de los la privacidad de nuestro hogar, la Caridades Católi- sus puertas permanecieron abiertas para en inglés, pero si está viendo a su es solo proveerles comida, ropa, Estados Unidos hemos insistido dejarán atrás el día que pongan cas ofrece más de servir a todos los que cruzan por ellas. Todo mamá hablará en español. No im- educación, dispositivos, etc.? ¿He en usar exclusivamente el español un pie fuera de mi casa. Sin duda 14 programas para esto es ¡gracias a ti! porta en dónde se encuentre o qué cumplido con mi misión si mi hijo en todo lo que hacemos, incluso seguirán participando en algunas asistir a las famili- Caridades Católicas puede hacer todo esto otras personas estén presentes. o hija se gradúa de la escuela o en los programas de educación celebraciones tradicionales, pero as e individuos que debido a las donaciones generosas de miles Español será el idioma que saldrá la universidad? ¿Me sentiré satis- religiosa infantil y pastoral juvenil. no por fe ni por convicción, sino enfrentan crisis de personas como tú, que se pusieron de pie de su boca cuando habla con su fecho si se hacen ricos? ¿Qué es, Muchas veces funciona. Pero sin solo por tradición. por embarazos, para ayudar a su prójimo. De ahí viene el mamá. Nos ha funcionado bien, es a final de cuentas, aquello que me duda creo que, si mis hijos cre- Si lo que quiero es que mis hijos necesitan consejería lema de la Colecta de este año: “La comunión totalmente bilingüe y nos llena de dirá si hice un buen trabajo como cen sin saber como rezar, vivir y alcancen la santidad, tengo que familiar, necesitan nos conecta. Somos uno en Cristo”. orgullo que así sea. A fin de cuen- padre? explicar su fe en inglés, y piensan asegurarme que su fe sea parte de que su fe – la fe heredada por sus su toda su vida. Por lo tanto, de- apoyo para recuper- Gracias a tu fe y a que crees en nuestra tas, el ser bilingüe es un valor, no Aún cuando creo que todas es- padres – no puede ser comparti- ben poder practicarla y expresarla arse después de un misión de ayudar a todos, continuaremos algo negativo. tas cosas son importantes, estoy da con el resto de la sociedad en en inglés también. La fe es mucho desastre natural y sirviendo a los más pobres, los marginados Sin embargo, esta realidad convencido que mi primera misión el idioma que usan a diario, la más que una expresión cultural. Si programas de apoyo bilingüe no era parte de nuestra como padre es que mis hijos alca- y los débiles. “En verdad les digo” dijo el perderán. Esto pasa todos los días quiero que mis hijos sean santos en general que bus- Señor, “que cuanto hiciste a uno de estos vida como católicos. Durante sus ncen la santidad. No solo que sean hombres y mujeres de bien, como y seguirá sucediendo, a menos que y vivan su fe católica, debe poder can aliviar el peso hermanos míos más pequeños, a mí me lo primeros años asistíamos casi ex- clusivamente a la misa en español, el hombre rico del evangelio (Mt evaluemos y cambiemos nuestras vivirla, expresarla y defenderla en de la pobreza y pro- hiciste”. aprendió sus oraciones en español 19, 16-22), quien era bueno, sino formas. su primer idioma. mover la dignidad Caridades Católicas ha estado en Okla- y, a la edad de 5 años, asistía al que sean santos – santos hijos, Ya sea que me gusté o no, y de- Podemos orar, alabar y dar de cada persona homa City por más de 108 años y ha sido grupo de educación religiosa de santos amigos, santos profesio- bido a una decisión que hice en mi gracias a Dios en inglés también. humana. galardonada con el premio a la mejor “Or- Kindergarten en español también. nales, santos sacerdotes o religio- vida, el primer idioma de mis hijos Gracias al cielo que Este año, debido a ganización sin fines de lucro” por parte del Cada noche, antes de dormir, sos, santos esposos o esposas, es, y será, el inglés. Hablarán in- ¡Dios entiende todos los idiomas! la pandemia global, “Oklahoman’s Reader’s Choice Awards” por yo hacía las oraciones con él en santos padres, etc. – santos en enfrentamos nuevos décimo año consecutivo. Eso solo significa español. Normalmente yo decía cada aspecto de su vida. En po- retos y los ya lim- que nuestra comunidad apoya y reconoce algo y el repetía después de mí. cas palabras, que vayan al cielo itados recursos se el trabajo que se hace y, por ello, estoy muy Algunas veces él improvisaba y y vivan en amistad eterna con ven sobrepasados. agradecido. esas eran las mejores de todas las Dios. Sin embargo, tus Por favor considera una donación a la oraciones. Quiero estar con ellos en el Caridades Católi- Colecta Anual de Caridades Católicas del Una noche, cuando mi hijo cielo para siempre. Mi amor y City. Personas que buscaron ayuda y en- cas pudo recaudar fondos adicionales (más 2020. Ayúdanos a seguir contando historias tenía 5 años, decidí cambiar la preocupación por ellos va más contrar compasión en tiempos de necesidad. de $500,000) para ayudar a las personas de misericordia, compasión y sanación que estrategia y comencé mi oración allá de este mundo. No solo me Fueron servidos gracias a tu apoyo a la Col- que viven en nuestra área de servicio y que cambia vidas, y que pone en acción nuestra en inglés. Me puse de rodillas. Y importa su felicidad terrena, ecta Anual de Caridades Católicas. habían perdido sus trabajos, que necesit- fe católica. comencé diciendo, “In the name of sino también su vida eterna. the Father, and of the Son, and of Pero ¿qué tiene esto que ver the Holy Spirit”. Con una mirada con la oración que hacía con extrañada se persignó y repetía mi hijo? La experiencia de mi con cuidado cada palabra que yo oración con él me mostró una decía. realidad diaria que viven miles, ‘Ciudadanía fiel’: Evangelio no debe analizarse en Junté las manos; él hizo lo mis- incluso millones, de personas. términos partidistas

Por Catholic News Service Desde que se presentó por primera vez, dicho Además, continuó, “el Evangelio no se puede documento se ha actualizado y revisado en in- analizar en términos políticos o partidistas. tervalos de cuatro años para reflejar los cambi- El Evangelio nos llama a vivir de acuerdo con CLEVELAND –El documento cuatrienal de os en los problemas que enfrenta el país. las normas y nuestra fe católica nos llama a los obispos de Estados Unidos sobre la re- Sin embargo, el arzobispo Coakley aclaró que adoptar normas que no sean divisibles en ter- sponsabilidad política adquiere sus raíces en la “Ciudadanía fiel” no es un mandato sobre qué minología de izquierda o derecha, republicana larga tradición moral de la Iglesia Católica que candidato votar para un cargo público. o demócrata”. defiende la dignidad humana y el bien común Votar, agregó, es una responsabilidad que El documento no pasó por revisiones impor- de todos, expresó el arzobispo Paul S. Coakley debe tomarse en serio y que requiere un juicio tantes para las elecciones de este año, pero de la Ciudad de Oklahoma, Oklahoma. prudencial para determinar quién puede servir será complementado con una carta de present- “El documento está destinado a proveer a mejor al bien común. ación, que fue objeto de un largo debate antes votantes católicos la oportunidad de reflexion- “Es probable que ningún candidato refleje to- de ser aceptada por el cuerpo completo de ar sobre cómo su fe se interrelaciona con sus dos nuestros valores”, dijo a Catholic News Ser- obispos durante su asamblea general de otoño responsabilidades políticas y cívicas”, señaló el vice el 18 de agosto. «Pero creo que debemos en noviembre. arzobispo, quien preside el Comité de Justicia entrar en oración. Necesitamos conocer nues- En esta ocasión, el documento también va Doméstica y Desarrollo Humano. tra fe. Necesitamos estudiar nuestra fe. Necesi- acompañado de una serie de cinco videos que Titulado “Formando la conciencia para ser ci- tamos recurrir al catecismo y aprender lo que destacan temas vitales de política pública. udadanos fieles: Llamado de los obispos católi- pueda enseñar sobre ciertos aspectos. El documento completo también está dis- cos de los Estados Unidos a la responsabilidad “Este documento pretende ser eso, una guía ponible en español. política”, el documento se ha ofrecido como oficial para la formación de conciencias que El texto de “Ciudadanía fiel” se puede descar- una guía para los votantes católicos cada año los católicos pueden utilizar mientras sopesan gar como un PDF gratuito de USCCB.org, o se de elecciones presidenciales desde 1976. estas cuestiones”, expresó el arzobispo. puede comprar en Store.USCCB.org. 14 September 13, 2020 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic September 13, 2020 15 Briefs Calendar This calendar only covers the two weeks between issue dates and may not reflect all of the calendar items. To see a full calendar, go to www.soonercatholic.org.

Please contact event or meeting Online Mass Tuesdays Catholic Relief Services dren is available. RSVP by Sept. organizers before attending. Join Archbishop Coakley and CRS: It’s more than a Rice Bowl! 10 to Alex Schimpf at aschimpf@ September 17 Charismatic Catholic prayer 24 Charismatic Catholic prayer 26 Feast of Sts. Cosmas and priests of the archdiocese for To learn more about Catholic Re- archokc.org or (405) 709-2755. meeting, 7 p.m., Catholic meeting, 7 p.m., Catholic Damian. online daily Mass at 11:30 a.m. lief Services, sign-up for the CRS 13 Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Pastoral Center. Contact Pastoral Center. Contact Mask requirement remains in every Tuesday from the St. Fran- Flocknote group in the Archdio- 40 Days for Life Ordinary Time. Elaine at (405) 358-3610, Elaine at (405) 358-3610, 26 Virtual Oktoberfest at Holy place cis de Sales Chapel at the Cath- cese of Oklahoma City at archokc. The next 40 Days for Life cam- [email protected]. [email protected]. Spirit Catholic Church, Mus- Until further notice, Archbishop olic Pastoral Center. Mass will be flocknote.com/CatholicReliefSE. paign is Sept. 23 - Nov. 1. There 13 Pray the Rosary for Life, 6:30 tang. Visit holyspiritmustang. Coakley has issued a mandatory live-streamed at archokc.org/live, are locations in Edmond, Nor- p.m., 2453 Wilcox Dr., Nor- 17 Single Parent Ministry kick- com. requirement for masks to be worn YouTube Live and on Facebook Mass of Remembrance man and Oklahoma City. Sign up man. Contact Connie Lang, off meeting, 7 p.m., Christ for all public Masses in the archdi- Live. The 2020 Mass of Remembrance at 40daysforlife.com. Contact (405) 249-1041, potato.lang@ the King Catholic Church, ocese. For more information or to will be 6 p.m. Sept. 15 at St. Fran- [email protected]. gmail.com. 8005 Dorset Dr., OKC. read the “Letter to the Faithful,” go Public Mass information – cis of Assisi, 1901 N.W. 18 in OKC. online to archokc.org/mass. COVID-19 The Mass is in memory of people Sidewalk advocates 14 The Exaltation of the Holy 19 Feast of St. Januarius. Find procedures for public Mass lost to suicide. Everyone welcome. Anyone interested in becoming Cross. New safe environment training in Oklahoma, a list of Frequently Masks required. Mass will be live- a peaceful and prayerful sidewalk 20 Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Or- The archdiocese announced a Asked Questions and a video mes- streamed on the St. Francis Face- advocate can contact Julie Lewis 15 Our Lady of Sorrows. dinary Time. new training program for volun- sage from Archbishop Coakley at book page and on the St. Francis at norman@golifemobilemedical. teers, staff members and clergy archokc.org/mass. of Assisi Oklahoma City YouTube com. Visit sidewalkadvocates.org. 15 Daily Mass live-streamed 20 Pray the Rosary for Life, 6:30 that will be required before work- channel. from St. Francis de Sales p.m., 2453 Wilcox Dr., Nor- ing with minors in the diocese’s COVID-19 information, live Tours resume at St. Ann Chapel, 11:30 a.m., archokc. man. Contact Connie Lang, Catholic churches or schools. Mass list Oktoberfest Retirement Community org/live, Facebook Live, (405) 249-1041, potato. Learn more at archokc.org/ Find a list of online daily and Holy Spirit Catholic Church in The St. Ann Retirement Com- YouTube Live. [email protected]. safe-environment. Sunday Masses, Procedures for Mustang will have their annual munity staff will be allowing safe Resuming Ministries, prayers, an Oktoberfest virtually on Sept. 26. tours to take place in the commu- 15 Serra Club meeting, 10:30 21 Feast of St. Matthew. Shrine webcam act of spiritual communion and Authentic German to-go meals, nity. There are openings in inde- a.m. Register at serraokc.org. Watch construction of the other resources related to the online auction bidding Sept. 15 - pendent living and assisted living 22 Daily Mass live-streamed Bl. Stanley Rother Shrine on quarantine and coronavirus at Sept. 26 and 200 raffle tickets will with choice locations available. 15 Mass of Remembrance, 6 from St. Francis de Sales a live webcam at archokc.org/ archokc.org/health. be sold for a vintage German 1984 To schedule a tour, call Bridget p.m. Sept. 15, St. Francis of Chapel, 11:30 a.m., archokc. shrinewebcam. Porsche 924 at $100 each. Visit or Richard at (405) 721-0747. Assisi, 1901 N.W. 18, OKC. org/live, Facebook Live, You- Support your parish holyspiritmustang.com. Be sure to ask about the “End Tube Live. Watch Heritage Gallery episodes With public Masses not at full of Summer” special at St. Ann 16 Feast of Sts. Cornelius and on Bl. Stanley Rother capacity, parishes and priests still Granny’s Attic Retirement Community, 7501 W. . 23 Feast of St. Pius of The Communications Office of need financial support from pa- St. Benedict Catholic Church in Britton Rd. in Oklahoma City. Pietrelcina. the archdiocese has produced a rishioners. Find online giving links Shawnee will have a “Granny’s At- 17 Feast of St. Robert Bellarm- series of short videos to highlight and mailing addresses for parishes tic” Rummage Sale 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., Scotch & Cigars ine. 23 40 Days for Life campaign items in the Heritage Gallery re- at archokc.org/parishgiving. Sept. 26 in the Benedict Center. Join Archbishop Coakley, David begins in Edmond, Nor- lated to Bl. Stanley Rother. Watch Dishware, linens, toys, holiday Niles and Minihan of the 17 Monthly Novena to the Infant man and OKC. Sign up at each episode on YouTube or Face- Study guides available! decorations, collectibles, frames, Catholic Man Show from 6 p.m. to Jesus. Nine days of novenas 40daysforlife.com. Contact book. Find Episode 1 at https:// Archbishop Coakley encourages furniture, books, tools, fishing and 8:30 p.m. Oct. 2 for a fun evening to the Infant Jesus of Prague. [email protected]. youtu.be/0HX1iDrM8zg. To sup- all clergy and lay people to spend sporting equipment. Something for of food, drinks and fellowship ben- port the building of a museum at time studying the latest pasto- everyone! Masks and social dis- efiting Oklahoma Catholic Radio. the Bl. Stanley Rother Shrine, go ral letter, “Go Make Disciples! tancing will be practiced. Visit okcr.org/scotch-cigars. online to stanleyrother.org. Building a Culture of Conversion Pierce Ethical Ad_12x8 2-20.qxp_Layout 1 2/20/20 3:16 PM Page 1 and Discipleship for the Arch- Single Parent Ministry Day of Reflection Rother documentary, diocese of Oklahoma City” with There will be a Single Parent A Day of Reflection: “A Day of available on DVD the help of new study guides in Ministry kickoff meeting at 7 p.m. Silence at the Abbey” with Br. Ranked the #1 Knights of Columbus The DVD set of the Beatification English and Spanish. The letter Sept. 17 at Christ the King Cath- Damian Whalen, O.S.B., will be Mass of Bl. Stanley Rother and the and pastoral plan lay out the olic Church, 8005 Dorset Dr. in 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. Oct. 24, at St. Agency in the Order in official Emmy-nominated docu- vision for the archdiocese through Oklahoma City. This new ministry Gregory’s Abbey in Shawnee. Early 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019. mentary, “An Ordinary ,” 2030. Find the pastoral letter is for single parents with a focus bird discount $30; $35 at the door, are online at rotherstore.com or and study guides at archokc.org/ on fostering discipleship in the includes lunch. Contact (405) 878- call (405) 721-5651, Ext. 114. Vision2030. family. On-site nursery for chil- 5656, [email protected].

Trey Welker Chad McAuliff Bobby Stevens Troy Snow Devon Soukup Lance Dufour Assistant General Agent MDRT, SKC SKC 918-798-0012 MDRT, SKC 918-550-0886 MDRT, SKC 918-284-0685 405-534-0397 [email protected] 405-505-6030 [email protected] 405-850-4092 chad.mcauliff@kofc.org [email protected] Councils: 775, 1677, [email protected] Councils: 962, 1302, [email protected] Councils: 1104, 4721, 6606, Councils: 1018, 3556, 7392, 10388, Councils: 767, 3101, 3167, 4519, 4804, 7395, Councils: 3220, 10822, 9668, 9737, 13828 4598, 5160, 5354, 11194, 11633, 11959, 5440, 5759, 6478, 8433, 11734, 14220, 12669 9901, 12108, 16048, 13313, 15834 8633, 14744 14248, 14448, 15785 16214, 16367

Kevin Pierce Regional Agency Executive Consultant Michael Dalby Robert Blakely Mike Maggio Max Yardley This could be you! Career opportunities 405-638-1274 405-243-8324 405-697-8820 405-570-2179 General Agent available. SKC [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Councils: 965, 1287, Councils: 1038, 1044, Councils: 916, 949, 1053, Councils: 4601, 6477, Office: 877-707-0752 2604, 4889, 5168, 1533, 1537, 2974, 3113, 1903, 3336, 4026, 4042, 8204, 12518, 12605 Cell: 405-514-7660 8523, 9900, 11648, 3309, 9334, 13366 5266, 5396, 9333, 9583, [email protected] 11909, 12819, 12382 11135, 11237, 14106

L I F E I N S U R A N C E • D I S A B I L I T Y I N C O M E I N S U R A N C E • L O N G - T E R M C A R E I N S U R A N C E • R E T I R E M E N T A N N U I T I E S *World's MoEst Ethical Companies® and Ethtisphere® namesh and marks are registeredi trademarksc of Ethisphere LLCa. l 16 September 13, 2020 Sooner Catholic continued from page 1 downtown and a police chaplain, held his annual Blessing of the Badges in 2014, Koelsch was shot twice. He said his vest and the blessing protected him. The bullet impacted his chest near the badge that had been blessed by Father Buettner. “I doubt I would be here today without that blessing,” he said. Koelsch said his officers have constant opportunities to go above and beyond the call of duty and “Go Make Disciples!” His officers and their families frequently help families in need, following the corporal works of mercy as their guide. Father Buettner, who admin- istered the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick in the emergency room after Lt. Koelsch was injured, has been a police chaplain since 2014. In addition, Father Buettner has the support from a number of retired police officers who have become dea- cons. “It has been a great honor serv- ing the police officers, dispatch- ers, their families and the wider Archbishop Coakley celebrated the 2019 Blue Mass for First Responders at St. Eugene Catholic Church in Oklahoma City. community. I have been very Photo Cara Koenig/Sooner Catholic. impressed with the great love our officers have for the community He has been an officer for nearly 30 years to intentionally pray for all of our first re- they serve,” Father Buettner said. and has a son, Father Krug, who is sponders and to also bless their badges. This “Many times when the police chaplain is a Catholic priest. Tom Krug’s dad also was a includes law enforcement, firefighters, para- called out, the officers need someone they can policeman and remembers him talking about medics, dispatchers and support staff,” Father trust and talk freely to. The shootings, hostage fellow officers struggles with the job, divorce, Buettner. “It is normally celebrated on or near situations and fatality wrecks that I have been health issues, lack of sleep, etc., and how im- Sept. 29, the Feast of , since Saint called to have allowed me to accompany and portant faith is to keeping a proper balance. Michael the Archangel is the patron saint of minister to many people during very traumatic “I encourage my officers to use the services first responders.” moments in their lives. I’m grateful to be a part of the Wellness Program and the chaplain’s Charles Albert is a freelance writer for the of the law enforcement family.” office.” Krug said. “Over the years, the Catholic Sooner Catholic. Captain Tom Krug with the Oklahoma City Po- chaplains have earned a well-de- lice Department knows first-hand the balance of served reputation that they keep being a strong Catholic and a dedicated officer. things confidential, whether you are Catholic or non-Catholic.” To celebrate first responders and chaplains, the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City holds a Blue Mass each year. This year, the Blue Mass will be held Oct. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Saint John Nepomuk Catholic Church in Yukon. “The Blue Mass First responder badges were blessed at the 2019 Blue Mass. Photo is an opportunity Avery Holt/Sooner Catholic.

Retired police officer Dcn. Dennis Frazier blessed a premie baby at the hospital. Photo provided.