Sooner Catholic Serving the People of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Volume 35, Number 23 * December 6, 2009 Feast of Our Lady To Be Celebrated December 12 A statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which is the title given to the Virgin Mary after appearing, according to legend, to Saint Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin, an Aztec convert to Catholicism, in the village of Guadalupe (the present-day Gustavo A. Madero, D.F.) near Mexico City in 1531. According to the accounts, Juan Diego was walking between his village and Tenochtitlan Archbishop Beltran is all smiles as he announces that Pope (now Mexico City), where Benedict XVI has elevated Father Edward J. Weisenburger, VG, the Catholic mission was left, to Monsignor. The announcement was made at the conclusion headquartered, on Dec. 12, of Mass celebrated at the Catholic Pastoral Center on Nov. 25. 1531. Along the way, in the village of Guadalupe, the Virgin Mary appeared, speaking to him in his Archdiocese Gains Monsignor native Nahuatl language. On Nov. 25, Archbishop Beltran announced that his Holiness, She told him to build a Pope Benedict XVI, had bestowed the title Prelate of Honor to His church at the site, but when Holiness upon the Archdiocesan Vicar General Rev. Edward J. Juan Diego spoke to the Weisenburger. The Investiture Ceremony for Monsignor Weisen- Spanish bishop, the bishop burger will take place in Oklahoma City at the Cathedral of did not believe him, asking Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Wednesday, Dec. 30 at 6 p.m. All are for a miraculous sign. The welcome. Virgin told Juan Diego to “I am very humbled by this unexpected honor,” Monsignor gather flowers from a hill, even Weisenburger said. “I pray that the kindness I have been shown will though it was winter, when no renew and deepen the love I hold for my priestly ministry and the plants bloom. He found Spanish people I am privileged to serve. I am very sincerely grateful to roses and presented these to the Archbishop Beltran for having submitted my name to our Holy bishop. When the roses fell from his Father. I likewise am grateful to the people of our Archdiocese and tilma (a kind of apron), an icon of especially the parishes where I have served. Their faith and good- the Virgin remained imprinted on the ness is the encouragement that keeps me faithful to my vocation. cloth. And lastly I am especially grateful to my brother priests. Their friendship and fraternity is my greatest blessing.”

Inside Irish Students Pilgrimage Sites Gather Record Named For Amount of Food Vietnamese For Area Hungry Holy Year 4 8-9 2 Sooner Catholic ● December 6, 2009

The Good News Sooner Catholic Most Reverend Eusebius J. Beltran . . . Saint Andrew Dung-Lac Archbishop of Oklahoma City Homily, Feast of Dung-Lac and his companions did not Publisher Saint Andrew Dung-Lac fear death. Rather, they endured great How fortunate we all are November 21, 2009 suffering and torture and were killed Ray Dyer for their faith. They said and they to have the Editor My dear Brothers and Sisters in believed there was a better life wait- example of Christ: ing for them after death. They knew Cara Koenig Each year I come to your parish that they would receive an everlasting Saint Layout/Design/ for a celebration in honor of your life in the kingdom of God which is Andrew patron, Saint Andrew Dung-Lac. His heaven. Photographer feast day is actually on Nov. 24, but we In 1988 Pope John Paul II canon- Dung-Lac usually observe it on the weekend ized Saint Andrew Dung-Lac and his and his Mauro Yanez before or after the 24th. This year’s companions whose loyalty to Christ companions Hispanic Editor celebration, therefore, coincides with the King had been established. Archbishop Beltran the great feast of Christ the King. Like Saint Andrew Dung-Lac, our to help us on Ammanda McCabe While the Church only designated patron of this parish, you and I are our pilgrimage of faith. Staff a specific date for the feast of Christ totally dependent upon Christ the the King in the last century, the fact of King. He and He alone is Lord and Christ’s Kingship has never been Savior. There is no other who can be married must make proper prepa- 7501 Northwest Expressway doubted. The Old Testament frequent- bring us into the Kingdom of God. rations through prayer and study. Oklahoma City, OK 73132 ly spoke of the coming Messiah usher- Only Jesus, the Christ, Who is the Son Those who are already married must (405) 721-1810 Fax: (405) 721-5210 ing in a new kingdom. Jesus Himself of God and King of Kings can give us work hard to maintain a happy and e-mail: [email protected] promised His faithful followers a place eternal life. This is God’s plan for us. stable relationship. Marriage is a in His kingdom. At His condemnation Yes, God so loves the world that He sacrament. It is sacred. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 32180 to death, Pilate placed a written sign sent His Son Jesus to save us. Jesus Parents should arrange for the Oklahoma City, OK 73123 on the Cross which read: “Jesus the came and revealed that He is the baptism of their babies and for first Nazarene, King of the Jews.” The early Christ, the eternal Son of God, the reconciliation and first Holy Visit us online through the Church constantly referred to Jesus as King of Kings! Communion for their little children. Archdiocesan Web Page at the King of Kings, the Lord of Lords Since the Kingdom of God is our Children must be taught how good and Savior of all. final destiny, the Church completes and gracious God is and how we must www.catharchdioceseokc.org. It is this Jesus Christ the King the liturgical year with this feast of keep in touch with Him through whom Saint Andrew Dung-Lac Christ the King which we observe prayer and devotion. The Sooner Catholic (USPS 066-910) is recognized as the eternal Son of God tonight. Like Saint Andrew Dung-Lac, How fortunate we all are to have published biweekly except for once in July and the Lord of all. Saint Andrew you and I are called to be faithful to the example of Saint Andrew Dung- and twice in December by the Archdiocese became a priest because he heard the the teachings of Jesus. Therefore, we Lac and his companions to help us on call of Christ the King. As a priest, he must continue to learn more and more our pilgrimage of faith. He leads us to of Oklahoma City. shared in the ministry and mission of about our Catholic faith. We must the new and better life that God offers Jesus. Saint Andrew Dung-Lac con- recognize the sacraments as special us in the kingdom of heaven. The newspaper is not responsible for stantly spoke of the Kingdom of God gifts from God and therefore celebrate May our celebration of the feast of unsolicited material. and instructed people in the beliefs them with faith and devotion. We are Saint Andrew Dung-Lac and the feast Copyright © 2009 Sooner Catholic and teachings of our Catholic faith. specially reminded to celebrate the of Christ the King help us all to Then, when challenged because of his sacraments of Reconciliation and become good and holy and faithful and teaching and ministry as a priest, Eucharist regularly. happy people now on this earth and Subscription rate: $20 per year for all he remained faithful. Saint Andrew Young people who are planning to someday in heaven. Amen. who are not members of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma Seminary Burses City, OK 73125. Father Joseph Beltran Father Larry Gatlin Bishop Stephen A. Leven Archbishop Charles $89,143 $10,000 $59,628 Salatka $185,945 Father Stephen Bird Father John A. Petuskey $11,100 Father Bernard J. $11,850 Father John Scheller Havlik $10,000 Father Denis Blackledge $51,710 Father Clement E. Pribil $8,337 $5,351 Father Gerald Ucker The Sooner Catholic is supported through the Father Wade Darnall Father James A. Kastner Father Stanley Rother $9,998 Archdiocesan Development Fund. $10,545 $10,520 $184,571 Totals as of 10/31/2009 December 6, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 3 Benefit Raises More Than $40,000 for Homeless Pantry

By Rex Hogan For the Sooner Catholic OKLAHOMA CITY — Priceless would be the word to describe the look on Sister Barbara Joseph Foley’s face when she was handed a check by Father Edward J. Weisenburger. Father Weisenburger, pastor of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, presented Sister Barbara Joseph with a check for $42,000 as part of the celebration honoring her for her work with the homeless of Oklahoma City. The $42,000 gift was the high- light of the dinner celebration held Nov. 12 inside a packed Connor Center on the campus of the Cathe- dral. The event focused attention on Sister Barbara Joseph’s efforts to care for the homeless. The Carmelite nun is founder of Sister BJ’s Pantry, a ministry close to downtown Oklahoma City that provides food, clothing and a warm smile for the street people of the state’s largest city. “We’re starting a new program with the vision to take homeless Sister Barbara Joseph Foley accepts a check for $42,000 from Father Edward J. Weisenburger at the Nov. 12 people off the street two at a time, banquet held in her honor. just like Noah’s Ark,” Sister Barbara I got started,” Sister Barbara Joseph stalled as was a beautiful statue of The homeless receive hot coffee, Joseph said. She said her vision is to said. the Mother of God holding Christ. pastries, homemade cookies and sack buy a house where — two at a time She raised the money to lease the Sister BJ’s Pantry opens at 6:30 lunches. The pantry also has a second — homeless people can have safe small building and she, along with a.m. each Friday and Saturday building where the homeless can pick living conditions. volunteers, transformed the building and serves some 600 people each Marjory Feighney, business out clothing, including underwear, into a welcoming center for the day. There are approximately 35 manager at the Cathedral, said dona- socks, shirts pants, shoes, coats and homeless. A flower garden was volunteers who donate their time to tions for the Nov. 12 dinner in honor blankets. There is a washer and planted and picnic tables were in- the pantry. of Sister Barbara Joseph came from dryer which clients can use. across Oklahoma. The pantry also operates a van “It didn’t just come from us,” that travels where the homeless are Feighney said. “Donations came from when outside temperatures reach 20 Duncan, Fairview, Tulsa, Ponca City, degrees or below. The St. Therese from all over the state. emergency vehicle runs from 8 p.m. “And that’s not all. Donations are to 1 a.m. The vehicle is equipped with still coming in. We think it will total thermal blankets, long johns and dry about $50,000 when it all comes in. clothes, a microwave to heat hot That’s money that comes from faith,” chocolate and soup, and phones to Feighney said. call ambulances should a person Sister BJ opened her pantry at need more care. The van also runs 819 NW 4th St. on March 3, 2006. during the summer when tempera- She got the idea of helping the tures reach dangerous levels. homeless through her association Sister BJ said the recent dona- with Rick Swyden, the founder of tions will go a long way to making Hot Dogs for the Homeless. Swyden the home a reality. She hopes to have delivers a hot dog lunch to about 200 it ready next year. homeless people each Sunday in “We’ll have to raise more. It downtown Oklahoma City. will all happen in God’s time. It “I went out with him for 18 will happen when it is supposed to months every Sunday and that’s how Marjory Feighney gets a hug from Sister Barbara Joseph. happen,” she said. 4 Sooner Catholic ● December 6, 2009 Knights Council Honors Two Students With Scholarships The Knights of Columbus this to say about her. “Liz attended St. Archbishop Salatka Assembly 2044 John Nepomuk School for three years. recently gave out two scholarships for She has volunteered for four years at recent high school graduates. This our vacation Bible school, for the past annual scholarship is open to seniors year has taught first-grade RE classes in the parishes of St. John Nepomuk and is an altar server during Mass. in Yukon, Sacred Heart in El Reno and She was also involved in Honor Holy Spirit in Mustang. Here is an Society, Spanish Club, Mentoring excerpt from the brunch honoring our Program and Leadership Program 2009 recipients: at Yukon High School. She has also Our first scholarship recipient is been a volunteer at Integris Medical Paige Willett. Paige attends Holy Center, Bethany Library and Yukon Spirit in Mustang and is currently a Manna Pantry. She has strong reli- freshman at the University of gious values and is very active at St. Oklahoma. Paige’s DRE director had John Nepomuk Catholic Church. this to say about Paige. “During her In her essay she wrote, “In our high school years, she was involved society, it is not always easy to stand with the parish youth program, for our beliefs. The Catholic Church is participated in a 10-day mission trip, Knights of Columbus and the scholarship winners so rooted in tradition. We believe in did volunteer work at Sister Barbara following the laws of Jesus by keeping Joseph’s needy pantry in downtown the armed forces is certainly one form or practicing them is considered the sanctity of marriage and main- Oklahoma City. She also participated of patriotism, and protects the core patriotic.” taining our bodies as a temple for God. in our parish senior high retreat in values our country was founded on, Our second scholarship recipient Slowly, as we take pride in our faith, May. Paige is also a reader and com- which continue to be the same ones we is Liz Tomichen. Liz attends St. John we can share it with others, and one mentator during our parish Masses. live by today. Many of those values Nepomuk in Yukon and is currently day, they will come to see how much Paige is a faith-filled young woman.” are connected closely with the basic a freshman at the University of happier you can be when following In her essay she wrote, “Service in values of Christianity, and preserving Oklahoma. Liz’s DRE director had God’s will instead of your own.” McGuinness Again Answers Call to Support Food Drive OKLAHOMA CITY — Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School students once again participated in the Students Against Hunger Canned Food Drive. The annual food drive, sponsored by the Oklahoma City Regional Food Bank, provides food to Oklahoma families that are in need of help and assistance. Bishop McGuinness has been involved in the Harvest Food Drive since 1987. “Always willing to reach just a little higher, McGuinness students shattered their previous record of 59,000 pounds of food by collecting 70,128 pounds of canned goods,” said Principal David Morton. “The 70,128 pounds collected this year will provide 54,000 meals for those families in need. The annual schoolwide project truly represents our commitment to help others.” The theme for this year’s drive was “Candemonium.” The food drive runs for two weeks, with canned goods being collected the entire time. Cans are stored in various locations throughout the school. When the Food Bank trucks show up, McGuinness students have perfected the process of hauling the canned goods from inside the school to the front of the building. Moving dollies and push carts do the hard work. Students form assembly lines to move the cans into large containers that will be loaded on the trucks by Food Bank employees. “The food drive is an opportunity for the whole school community to come together to challenge one of the major issues that faces Oklahomans,” said Morton. “The right for basic resources such as food is an issue of human dignity which the school recognizes and seeks to raise awareness for the cause. The food drive is an event that is truly embraced by the school community and it is very rewarding for the faculty and parents to see the students put their efforts into such a worthy cause.” Irish students adding to the food drive. December 6, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 5 Saints to Open Nation’s First Billings Center

OKLAHOMA CITY — The Billings Ovulation Method has been around for decades, but the first ever Billings Ovulation Center in the United States is about to open its doors right here in Oklahoma City. St. Anthony Hospital is proud to be the home of this groundbreaking first. The Billings Ovulation Center will be located in Dr. Mary Martin’s office on the fifth floor of the Professional Office Building at St. Anthony Hospital. While the Billings Ovulation Method has long been Dr. Mary practiced by women trying to avoid conception, recently it Martin has become even more widely used for women trying to con- ceive. This method is so accurate that it is changing the way many experts look at fertility. The Billings Ovulation Method is a far less expensive and more natural approach to infertility than invasive procedures. Oftentimes it is found to be more successful than these pricey procedures also. Some of the volunteers you’ll find at the Christmas tree lot. The Billings Ovulation Center will be open to patients, physicians, nurses and others who are interested in learning about this method. Martin Christmas Tree Lot Open for Business has traveled the globe researching this method. After spending much time in OKLAHOMA CITY — Bishop worth of trees with personal contri- Australia and the United States studying the Billings Ovulation Method and John Carroll School and the butions. using it in her practice, she will now offer this education at the first ever Cathedral Parish are pleased to The core group remained Billings Ovulation Center in the United States. announce the annual Christmas tree involved through the 1980s and since lot officially opened on Nov. 28. then the lot has been organized by This tradition dates to 1960, John Wilkinson, Phil Maguire and when a group of men led by Hugh Dan Heinen, and more recently Maguire, Rollie Mueller, Bob Sine Richard Cudjo, Mark Stranczek and Volunteers Sought for Food Delivery and Dan Venard pulled together to Roger Brown. Volunteers are needed on Street (one block south of NW try to match some of the contributions “I enjoy seeing the same faces Saturday, Dec. 19 at 9 a.m. at two 50th and one block east of Grove). by the women’s organizations in the year after year, and it’s always great locations to help deliver Christ- The regular monthly Catholic parish. Dr. Maguire defined this meeting new customers,” said Bentley mas dinner groceries to 400 Worker grocery delivery day is group as initially a “ragtag outfit” Edmonds, a 17-year veteran. “For me households needing emergency moved to OKC First Church of compared to the altar society, but they it’s just part of Christmas.” food assistance for the holiday. the Nazarene for the month of organized an event that lives on today Hours are weekdays from 5:30 to The annual St. Charles December (4400 NW Expressway 50 years later. 8 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to Borromeo holiday food delivery between Meridian and 63rd). The All four were Bishop John 7 p.m. The tree lot is located at NW program will be held at the time commitment is about two Carroll dads, a pattern that still 31st and Western (west of Western). Dorothy Day Center on State hours. describes the tree lot committee. Stop by for a cup of hot chocolate, That first year they purchased $900 a Christmas tree and holiday cheer! Diversity Topic for RE Directors OKLAHOMA CITY — There are Meeting held at the Catholic many factors that affect catechesis, Pastoral Center. By giving a frame- but perhaps none as apparent as work set in a historical context, the area of our cultural influences. Victor was able to address where Catechetical Leaders continuously we are from, where we are at, and find themselves asking, “How do I where we are headed with our parish deal with the changing influences of religious education programs. various cultures?” He addressed some of the issues To answer this question, the many are facing in their ministry, Office of Religious Education invited as well as providing some key in- Sadlier Consultant Victor Valen- sight on how to make communication zuela to give a presentation at and ministry in multicultural the monthly Catechetical Leaders communities more effective. Victor Valenzuela, a consultant, discusses cultural influences with RE directors. 6 Sooner Catholic ● December 6, 2009 Recipe for Ending Poverty: Think, Then Act Scholar Laments the Lack of Reflection in Tackling Issue

ROME (Zenit.org) — The recipe moral, spiritual, legal, cultural and standpoint of a shared and rich comes to how you believe societal for alleviating poverty is not a institutional dimensions. vision of the human person." development occurs -- and Marx was secret, and yet much of the work "The irony, of course, is that we Furthermore, he proposed, terribly wrong about almost every- being done to help the world's poor is already know the secrets to poverty "Catholics can often bring an under- thing." misdirected, according to one expert alleviation. One of the most impor- standing of certain key elements to There are economic factors, he on the matter. tant of these is that you can't allevi- poverty-alleviation that is often acknowledged, such as "protectionist Samuel Gregg, director of ate poverty without creating wealth richer than, for example, ideas artic- policies, collectivist economic struc- research at the Acton Institute, said in the first place and we know that ulated by convinced secularists. If tures, punitive taxation levels, as this to ZENIT when he was dis- wealth-creation will happen in some you're a true materialist, then it's well as an absence of incentives for cussing a conference on "Free cultural and institutional settings very hard to speak about commerce people to be entrepreneurial and Enterprise, Poverty and the but not in others." and entrepreneurship in more than competitive." Financial Crisis." The conference utilitarian terms. Ultimately, utili- But he suggested that "perhaps will be hosted Thursday by the Stepping up tarianism -- whatever its form -- is the most important contribution Pontifical University of the Holy In this regard, the scholar con- an incoherent philosophical position. that Catholics can make to the Cross. tended that business, commerce and The Church, however, can point to poverty-alleviation debate is to focus Gregg observed there is plenty of entrepreneurs have indispensable the same realities and underline the attention upon the extra-economic talk about global poverty and yet, he roles to play: "Not only through fact that vital engines of wealth-cre- causes of poverty." said, it is "striking how much of the being generous, but also by focusing ation such as entrepreneurship and One step in this direction is conversation is very unreflective." upon what they know how to do -- trade won't work unless they are examining proposals "from the "For decades, for example, we've which is to create wealth -- and by permeated by certain virtues." standpoint of what faith and reason been told that foreign aid and other alerting others to the conditions that And in this vein, Gregg contend- tell us to be the truth about human forms of redistribution is the answer enable business to create wealth, ed the main obstacles to poverty beings," the scholar proposed. to poverty," he explained. "Yet the employment and better living stan- alleviation are not foremost econom- "I can think of few better meth- evidence is rather conclusive that dards for all." ic. ods for identifying policies that are this is not true and these methods But Catholics, too, he said, are "At the root of flawed economic likely to fail," he said. "A policy that don't produce systemic change. [...] key to the discussion. systems are flawed visions of the downplays the reality of human sin, Another problem is that a great deal Gregg noted that the Church's human person, which in turn trans- for example, is likely to embody of development economics is under- universality gives it a particular late into cultures and institutions utopian tendencies. A policy that pinned by deeply materialistic ide- richness in addressing the theme: "It that help perpetuate poverty," he ignores the fact that the greatest ologies and deformed anthropologies can bring together people from very said. "If you think that the primary human resources is man himself and of man. But we know that diminish- different backgrounds, experiences key to change is to change economic his gift of reason is likely to focus ing poverty is only partly an eco- and nationalities, and yet discuss a structures, then you're not that dif- excessively on redistribution issues, nomic and material question. It has complex issue like poverty from the ferent from Karl Marx when it or, even worse, embrace the anti- human population-control ideology that the Catholic Church has fought Houston to Host Liturgical Conference so valiantly against." Houston, Texas — From the Houston will deliver the keynote an abundance of good and services for On the Net: beginning, we have been a Church address at the George R. Brown parishes and individual Catholics. For more information on the blessed by diversity with the influ- Convention Center in Houston, These include Catholic bookstores, Acton Institute Conference: ences of language and culture woven Texas. Also delivering addresses to Catholic publishers, religious goods www.acton.org/events/rome_free into the fabric of our communal faith the conference participants will be suppliers, architects, liturgical con- _enterprise_conference.php life. From Jan. 13-16, 2010, the Rev. Ed Foley, Capuchin; Dr. Richard sultants and designers, artists and Southwest Liturgical Conference McCarron; Sister Catherine Vincie, artisans, universities and retreat Study Week will explore the theme, RSHM; Brother Rufino Zaragoza, centers. Many Cultures: One Church at OFM; and Rev. Juan Sosa, president Conference early registration is Reception to Prayer. Led by over 40 scholars, the- of the Instituto Nacional Hispano de $130 through Dec. 11, after which it ologians, priests, religious and profes- Liturgia. will rise to $150. Single day registra- sional pastoral ministers, conference Among the 72 workshop offerings tion is also available. Hotel accommo- Honor Lepak participants will feast on an abun- for all liturgical ministers is a two- dations are in the Hilton of the dance of formation opportunities as day clergy track and workshops of Americas adjoining the conference OKLAHOMA CITY — Dr. Louie part of the 48th annual Southwest interest to catechists, teachers and center. The conference brochure and Lepak will be honored with a retire- Liturgical Conference Study Week youth ministers. Thirty-six of these secure registration is available online ment reception from 3:30 to 5:30 which will be hosted by the workshops will be offered on at www.swlc.org. Information for p.m. Dec. 11 at Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. Saturday, of which 18 will be deliv- exhibitors is also online. For more 1501 N. Classen Blvd. Lepak has His Eminence Daniel Cardinal ered in Spanish. information, e-mail served as director for Saint Joseph DiNardo, Archbishop of Galveston- Nearly 50 exhibitors will present [email protected]. Counseling Service for years. December 6, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 7 Oklahoma Priest Offers Catholic Perspective on Business Ethics

“The duty of the Catholic “For instance,” Father Stansberry person is to have a well-formed said, “If a Catholic were to help with an conscience, so that they can make abortion, that person would be held good ethical decisions. The responsible … We, as Catholics, believe definition of a conscience is that, that God created us as free human in all that we say and do, beings; however, all of our actions have humanity is obliged to follow consequences … We must always faithfully what they know to be remember what St. Thomas says, ‘The right and just.” — CCC 1778 end does not always justify the means.’” By Eliana Tedrow “The Golden Rule is hard,” Father For the Sooner Catholic Stansberry said, “but it should guide us.” In the workplace, an ethical OKLAHOMA CITY — It may person recognizes that “winning” is not seem like a contradiction: Business the overriding goal. and Ethics. In a culture that stresses Each religious leader agreed — getting ahead at any cost (i.e. reality not everything that is lawful is accept- TV shows, steroids in athletics, tearing able. For instance, in many religions, down political opponents to win) — although drinking is legal by the state, is there still a place for faith-driven, it is considered wrong to drink. If you ethical decision-making in corporate declare bankruptcy, for instance, you America? still owe people money. It may be law- The answer was sought out by Father Rick Stansberry makes a point during the Nov. 4 event. ful to invest in stocks; however, if you the Oklahoma Business Ethics Con- invest in stocks that promote pornog- sortium, an organization established members by the end of September totally separate faiths, a fundamental raphy or alcohol, even if they make you in 2003 by local business leaders, that 2009.” belief in “The Golden Rule” can be money, that may not be the ethical strives to establish Oklahoma as a On Nov. 4 nearly 300 Oklahoma found in most religions. Each of these thing to do. state known for high personal and business leaders convened to discuss religions have a version of “Do unto According to the rabbi, there is corporate ethical standards. the importance of ethical decision- others” and carry this philosophy to no separation from the holy, the “Even though we are a non- making in the workplace. Among work. sacred and the mundane. There sectarian organization, God truly pro- these: a rabbi, a Protestant minister, a However, in a world that doesn’t should be a sanctity to society — pelled us forward,” said Shannon Muslim leader, a Buddhist academic uphold the Golden Rule, can we still we are all under a covenant. We are Warren, one of six original founders. and a Catholic priest unanimously live it? Especially at work? ultimately servants of God, not of “Back in late 2003, six of us thought it stressed to the crowd, “Although we Father Rick Stansberry of Christ servants. would be a good idea to have an in- appear very different in faiths, there the King represented the Catholic per- The Protestant minister agreed. formal forum to have discussions are guiding principles on which we spective. For Catholics, he explained, “Commerce should be about living and about ethical issues we were en- all agree. These are basic guiding our Catechism lists the “Formation of making the world a better place — not countering in the workplace. From principles that each of us, no matter Conscience” (CCC 1778), The Ten taking advantage of other people and there, we kept surging in number what faith we are, carry to work with Commandments, Corporal Works of getting as much as you can, especially every month until we grew, primarily us every day.” Mercy and Holy Scripture as refer- at the cost of going against what is by word of mouth, to nearly 700 In what otherwise appear to be ences for ethical decision-making. ethical.” Guthrie Students Recognized for Top Scores GUTHRIE — Five of St. Mary’s reading and science; and Caitlin eighth-grade students are recog- Bradley, daughter of Brian and nized for scoring in the top 6 per- Pam, for science. cent of students nationally who The content of the EXPLORE took the ACT Explorer test. tests is closely tied to that of the The following students scored achievement tests in the ACT, at or above the 94th percentile in which is broadly used for college each of the following core content entrance and placement decisions. areas: Joseph Poirier, son of Mary It is also consistent with the con- and Michael, for English, reading tent of ACT’s PLAN® program for and science; Mariah Smalley, grade 10. daughter of Jane and Steve, for EXPLORE, PLAN and the ACT reading; Maxwell Staudt, son of can be used in combination to focus Saint Mary's students who performed exceptionally well on the test were, Mickey and David, for English, on meeting academic standards reading and science; Emma Wilson, across the entire secondary school back from left, Emma Wilson, Max Staudt and Joseph Poirier; front from daughter of Tammy and Kent, for core program of studies. left, Mariah Smalley and Nadiya Bradley. 8 Sooner Catholic ● December 6, 2009

n Nov. 24, our Catholic Church celebrated the Feast of 117 Vietnamese martyrs canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1988. The Vietnamese Catholics OOdate Nov. 24, 2009, is very important for the Vietnamese Catholics because it was chosen for the opening ceremony for the Jubilee Year (Holy Year) of the Vietnamese Catholic Church. Through Pope Benedict XVI’s Join In Holy Year blessing, this Holy Year began on this day and it will end on the Feast of the Epiphany in 2011 at the National Marian Shrine of Lavang. This “Holy Year” formally marks the 350th anniversary of the estab- Celebration lishment of the first two dioceses of North and South Vietnam (1659-2009) and the 50th anniversary of the Vietnamese Catholic Church as a hier- archy. Cardinals from Rome, the United States, France, Vietnam as well as archbishops, bishops, priests, religious and about 120,000 Vietnamese Vietnamese Catholics gathered at the church of So Kien for the inaugural Mass. So Catholics in the Kien Church was a place where Catholicism in Vietnam began and it also Archdiocese of is a place where relics of many Vietnamese martyrs are kept. Oklahoma City Looking back on the historical journey of the Vietnamese Catholic will celebrate the Church, we discover that the Good News of our Lord Jesus Christ was first 350th anniversary proclaimed in Vietnam at the end of the 15th century through the early of Vietnam’s first venturesome missionaries. However, the regular and systematic evange- Catholic diocese lization was actually begun in 1627, mostly through Jesuit priests from and the 50th Spain, France and Portugal. In less than 30 years, they were able to anniversary of the baptize about 200,000 into the Catholic Faith. Vietnamese Catholic During the period of 261 years (1625-1886), 53 edicts of persecution of Church as a hierarchy. Christians were signed by the Trinh, the Nguyen Lords and the kings of the In Oklahoma City, at the Nguyen dynasty. Within more than 200 years, there were approximately Cathedral of Our Lady of 130,000 Christians being victimized by these persecutions which were widely spread throughout the country. During these persecutions, Our Perpetual Help, construction con- Our Lady tinues on a shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Lavang took a very important role in encouraging these Christians of Lavang to endure their sufferings to testify to the Lord. Among an estimated Lady of Lavang. Father Thanh 130,000 Christians who died for their faith, 117 martyrs, including 96 Nguyen, associate pastor, said Vietnamese, 11 Spanish Dominicans and 10 French members of the Paris the shrine is ex-pected to be complete Foreign Missions Society, were canonized by Pope John Paul II in spite of within a month. strong protests by the Vietnamese communist government. “Our Lady is very important to In explaining the meaning behind the Holy Year of the Vietnamese the Vietnamese community,” Father Catholic Church, Cardinal Jean Baptiste Man Minh Pham, Archbishop of Nguyen said. He said the large the Archdiocese of Saigon, president of the Holy Jubilee Committee said: Vietnamese community at the “In this Jubilee Year, as the People of God, we want to remember the grace Cathedral is looking forward to the that God has given us over many centuries. We want to thank Him and completion of the shrine and he thank the missionary martyrs who gave their lives for the birth and growth expects a good turnout for its bless- of our Church.” ing and dedication. Father Nguyen said during this “Holy Year,” the Vietnamese Catholics will pray the rosary and

Archbishop Beltran has designated the following Churches as pilgrim- age sites for the Vietnamese Catholic community during the Jubilee Year that began Nov. 24, 2009, and concludes on the Feast of the Epiphany in 2011. Vietnamese Catholics are encouraged to visit the various churches and pray during the course of this Holy Year. ■The Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 3214 North Lake, Oklahoma City ■Catholic Pastoral Center Chapel, 7501 Northwest Expressway, Oklahoma City ■Saint Philip Neri, 1107 Felix Place, Midwest City ■Saint John Nepomuk, 600 South Garth Brooks Blvd., Yukon ■Saint Joseph Old Cathedral, 307 NW 4th Street, Oklahoma City ■Saint Andrew Dung-Lac, 3000 SW 55th Street, Oklahoma City Archbishop Beltran accepts Offertory gifts during Mass at Saint Andrew Dung-Lac. December 6, 2009 Sooner Catholic 9

An artist rendering of the shrine to Our Lady of Lavang being built at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Holy Year

continue to ask God to bring justice to their homeland. He said the government of Vietnam continues to oppress the Catholic faith. “Priests are still beaten for celebrating Mass,” Father Nguyen said. “This is why the Holy Year is so very important for our Vietnamese com- munity.”

Parishioners at Saint Andrew Dung-Lac participate in the celebration of Mass. The young faces of Saint Andrew Dung-Lac. 10 Sooner Catholic ● December 6, 2009 Tonkawa Parish Ends Centennial With Eucharistic Celebration TONKAWA — Archbishop Beltran celebrated Mass at Saint Joseph Catholic Church of Tonkawa on Nov. 22. The Eucharistic Celebra- tion closed the year-long centennial celebration. The Centennial Year commemo- rated the dedication of the first church building by Most Rev. Theophile Meerschaert, first Catholic bishop of Oklahoma, on May 3, 1909. The build- ing, purchased from the Methodist Church in the early 1900s is now a pri- vate residence. At the closing Mass, Father Larok-Obwona Martin, the 30th priest to serve the parish, concelebrated with Archbishop Beltran. Deacons Bart Brashears and Francisco Estrada, who serve the Tonkawa and Blackwell parishes, assisted. Major activities during the anni- versary year included a Centennial Mass offered May 3, 2009, by Father Martin. Concelebrating with him were Fathers Richard Beckman and John Father Martin gives a tour of Saint Joseph Church during an open house. Michalicka of Ponca City. Assisting with Mass were Deacons Bart Following Mass, a dinner for An open house Oct. 4 welcomed Other events during the year Brashears and Francisco Estrada. A current and former parishioners and guests to tour the present church, included recognition of the Centennial Centennial Choir sang parts of the special guests was served in the which features the original triptych First Communion Class and of the Mass in Latin and traditional hymns Parish Hall. Virla Smithheisler, the altarpiece, painted in late Renais- Centennial Confirmation Class. Evan in English. Before the dismissal of oldest member of the parish, cut the sance style above the original altar Glasgow and Carli Pendleton received the congregation, Father Michalicka parish centennial cake decorated with and depicting the Holy Family, the the Holy Eucharist at Mass April 26. presented a resolution signed an icing picture of the present church Crucifixion and the Women at the Archbishop Beltran conferred the by Oklahoma Rep. Dale DeWitt building, constructed in 1925 at the Tomb of the Risen Christ. Stained sacrament of Confirmation upon congratulating the parish on its corner of North Avenue and Tenth glass windows show Biblical scenes Cherokee Combrink, Zane Glasgow anniversary. Street. and various canonized saints. In honor and Weslee Simpson during the of the Centennial, the sanctuary was Confirmation Mass May 6. The first repainted to restore the ceiling and communicants and the confirmands walls to the original colors of blue and were honored at receptions in the cream, and new carpeting was in- Parish Hall following the respective stalled in the sanctuary and the nave Masses. aisle. Helen Caughlin chaired the Parishioners stationed through- Centennial Celebration Committee out the church explained various ele- under the direction of Father Martin. ments of the building and answered Subcommittee members were Bob visitors’ questions. A souvenir booklet Steichen and Marjilea Smithheisler, with vintage photographs gave high- music and liturgy; Helen Caughlin lights of the parish history, and an and Lori Evans, Confirmation; exhibit of memorabilia assembled by Marjilea Smithheisler, Helen Delmen- Mary Lou Fath, a descendant of one of the original parish families was on horst and Margaret Steichen, history, view in the Parish Hall. publicity and correspondence; Joyce A commemorative ceramic orna- Lenzen, open house; Lori Evans, ment depicting a figure of Saint church grounds; Melinda Glasgow, Joseph, a detail from the stained glass church decorations and ornament; and window over the church entrance, was Dawn Huff, Reta Swords, Myrna Fath, designed by Tonkawa artist Audrey Anne Evans, Joyce Lenzen and Mary Richards, dinners and receptions. Joe Parishioner Virla Smithheisler was given the honor of cutting the centennial Schmitz and made available for Caughlin chaired the Parish Council. cake. purchase. December 6, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 11 Advent: A Time to Consider Great Love and Faith of Grandparents Do Catholics think about St. bye to her pregnant I wonder, too, what it was like Maybe she will be holding him when Anne during Advent? I don’t know daughter and watch after the census. When the Holy I walk through the door. Maybe she the answer to questions like that as I as the couple left Family realized they would not be will be feeding him. have only been Catholic a few years. Nazareth and returning to Nazareth anytime soon, I pray that I will be a wise grand- I’m thinking about St. Anne this year. headed down the did they send word to the grand- mother. A good grandmother. If you are about to be a grandmother road for Bethlehem. parents that their grandson had Precisely the kind of grandmother for the first time — like I am — St. Anne must have been safely born? Did they tell some- this little boy will need. As we count Anne just might be on your mind this known that the one who was traveling back to Naza- these final days of Advent, anticipat- December as well. birth would come By Denise reth to inform Anne and Joachim of ing the arrival of our Infant King, I I’d never heard the names of before she would Bossert the change in their plans? That they will be thinking of the Holy Family, see her daughter were going to Egypt? That they Mary’s parents until I became but I will also be contemplating the Catholic. As an Evangelical Pro- again. She must have treasured couldn’t come back for a very long grandparents back in Nazareth, who testant, we kept it simple. What do those final days and hours, carefully time? kissed their daughter goodbye over we know about Mary’s parents from preparing her daughter for childbirth Did the messenger tell the 2,000 years ago — and gave their Sacred Scripture? Nothing. And so, and the care of the umbilical cord, the grandparents in Nazareth that God precious girl and her unborn child we left it at that. We assumed that technique for swaddling the newborn, had another plan for the little Holy to a world that needed them both the lineage of Mary had been lost and the finer points of nursing. Family? desperately. over the centuries. We didn’t realize She must have sent her daughter And did Anne cry at the news? that the Church had always known off with a mother’s blessing: may Did she long to see her daughter one Editor’s Note: Denise Bossert the names of her mother and father. your labor be quick and easy. She more time? Did she ache to hold lives in New Melle, Mo., where she is According to Church Tradition, must have been overcome with long- the grandson who would save her a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary’s mother was named Anne and ing, when she placed her hand on her people? Mary Catholic Church. She writes a her father was Joachim. daughter’s swollen belly and felt the Sometime during this month, monthly column for the St. Louis I find it interesting to think Messiah kick. She must have felt all God willing, I will see my daughter Review that traces her journey from of Our Lord’s grandmother during these things — if she was like me. If again. She might be resting in a Protestantism to Catholicism. Her Advent. I simply cannot imagine she was like every first-time grand- hospital bed, watching her little boy columns will run from time to time what it was like for Anne to say good- mother. as he sleeps in the bassinet nearby. in the Sooner Catholic.

Book Delves Into Faith of Royal Family Mount Student Chosen for Arts Program House of Treason: The Rise and executed for Fall of a Tudor Dynasty. Robert treason. Hutch- Rebecca “Nikki” Craig, a senior at Mount St. Hutchinson. London: Weidenfeld & inson describes all Mary High School, has been chosen for “Super- Nicolson, 2009. 340 pages. the intrigues and Stars: Entertainment Leaders of Tomorrow” by Hardback. ISBN 978-0-297-84564-5. excitement this the Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Arts $32.77. family got into. Management at Oklahoma City University. One of the This career development program is designed Howards, Philip to be a gateway for high school juniors and Howard, Earl of seniors into the exciting entertainment industry Robert Hutchinson has written Arundel, died in By Brother and college experience. Nikki, an avid drama another wonderful book. This one is the Tower of Benet Exton student, will be working in conjunction with on the noble Howard family of London after professional faculty members and OCU’s official England during the reign of the having becoming a Catholic and student organization, Students of Arts Manage- Tudors. This family was involved in was canonized a saint in 1970 by ment (SAM). The mission of SAM is to create the government of England because Pope Paul VI. The Howard family opportunities to further the education of those Rebecca “Nikki” Craig they were a high-ranking family continued to have Catholic leanings dedicated to the pursuit of careers in the with royal blood which got some into which got some into trouble with the management of arts and entertainment while encouraging scholarship, trouble. The early dukes at times government. This is where the book professionalism and intellectual development. became too proud of their blood line ends with the advent of the reign of Nikki, as a part of this elite student team, will be invited to have and were seen as competitors with the Stuarts and the Howard family hands-on experience in planning, organizing and executing exclusive the king or queen who were jealous surviving the Tudors. SuperStars events. She will also gain firsthand knowledge of what of their prerogatives. This was Brother Benet Exton is a happens behind the scenes of production, as well as have the opportu- because the Howards might have Benedictine Monk at St. Gregory’s nity to assist in the development of red carpet-inspired Tribute to the had a better claim to the throne Abbey in Shawnee. Among other Stars Banquet at the end of the year. than did the Tudors since they had duties, he serves as the librarian Nikki, the daughter of David and Staci Craig, plans to study acting Plantagenet connections. Some of and writes book reviews regularly and English literature. Her ultimate goal is to attend Cambridge, and the Dukes of Norfolk ran afoul of for several Catholic publications, being a member of SuperStars will help advance this dream. Henry VIII and Elizabeth I and were including the Sooner Catholic.

14 Sooner Catholic ● December 6, 2009 Jobs Box Assistant Executive Director knowledge of estate planning, tax considerations of specialization in Health Care Management. The Center of Family Love, a non-profit and various gifting instruments and familiarity Candidates for graduate courses are required to organization serving adults with intellectual dis- with the Archdiocesan giving community. hold a Ph.D. in the preferred subject and related abilities for over 28 years in Okarche, is looking Candidate would need to be an active member of a business and industry experience. Candidates for an assistant executive director. The assistant parish and in good standing with the Catholic must be supportive of and willing to contribute executive director will assist in establishing and Church. Other skills would be strong organiza- to the Catholic and Benedictine identity of the directing the overall operations of the total agency. tional and computer skills in Microsoft Office university. Send a cover letter, vita and transcripts This includes the internal coordination between and donor database software, self-starter, goal- to [email protected]. the group homes, ICFs/MR, and vocational oriented, a willingness to travel and establish programs, and the external coordination with the appointments convenient to prospects. Send Director of Religious Education community, other agencies and the board of cover letter, resume and salary history to David Christ the King Church in Oklahoma City trustees. Also assist in the coordination of all de- Johnson, Catholic Foundation, P.O. Box 32180, is seeking an experienced Director of Religious partments to insure compliance with established Oklahoma City 73123-0380, (405) 721-4115. Education. The director is responsible for oversee- standards. Assist the executive director in promot- ing the K-12 religious education for students not ing public relations and overall fundraising activ- Computer Teacher attending Catholic school, coordinating the RCIA ities in coordination with the governing body. St. Eugene Catholic School has an immedi- program, Confirmation, First Communion and Requirements include a bachelor’s degree in a ate opening for a computer teacher for first First Confession. The director also will be respon- related field with several years of experience. through eighth grade. The teacher needs to be a sible for developing and coordinating a strong Extensive business and management experience certified teacher with knowledge in educational adult education program for the parish. The appli- preferred. To apply, call 263-4658, fax 263-4718, software, Microsoft Office and basic computer cant should be well-versed in Catholic doctrine, e-mail [email protected] or in person at 635 W. hardware. If interested, send resumes to work well with a variety of people and have strong Texas, Okarche, Okla. 73762. EOE [email protected]. initiative. Candidates should possess a degree in religion or theology, preferably a master’s degree. Part-Time Executive Director Substitute Teachers Resumes should be sent to Father Rick Saint Vincent de Paul Society Oklahoma Sacred Heart Catholic School in Stansberry, Christ the King Catholic Church, P.O. Archdiocesan Council Board has a part-time Oklahoma City is accepting applications for sub- Box 20508, Oklahoma City, Okla. 73156, or e-mail position open for an executive director. Under- stitute teachers. Interested applicants should call to [email protected]. stands, interprets and applies rules/policies of the 634-5673 for an application. Society. Coordinate and manage the day-to-day LPN/RN Openings operation. Assist the board in performance of their Part-Time Teachers The Center of Family Love in Okarche has various roles. Serve as a mentor and monitor for Catholic Schools in the Oklahoma City area immediate openings for the following: LPN/RN - conference presidents to ensure the maintenance are in need of part-time teachers who are certified Daytime hours Monday through Friday. Adminis- of effective local organizations consistent with the in the state of Oklahoma, and are interested in trators license a plus! Must have excellent organi- Rules of the Society. Is an active member of their working with Title I students. Title I is a federal zational, administrative and management skills! Catholic parish. Possess excellent verbal, written program designed to assist students who reside in To apply, call 263-4658, fax 263-4718, e-mail and computer skills. Mail your resume to St. economically disadvantaged areas and are in need [email protected] or in person at 635 W. Texas, Vicent de Paul Thrift Store, 3031 NW 23rd St., of tutoring in reading and/or math. Most positions Okarche, Okla. 73762. EOE OKC 73107, or e-mail [email protected]. require a commitment of two to three hours a day, two to three times a week. Through the Oklahoma Accounts Receivable/Payable Clerk Executive Director City Public School District we are able to pay The Center of Family Love in Okarche has The Catholic Foundation of Oklahoma is $17.50 an hour. If you are interested in working an immediate opening for Accounts Receivable/ taking applications for executive director position. with children in need of reading or math Payable Clerk – Responsible for resident billing Successful candidate shall serve as the Chief assistance, contact Associate Superintendent Cris and the accepting of payments and will also Operating Officer of the Foundation and is re- Carter at 721-4202 or e-mail ccarter@catharch- process vendor bills/payments. Must be a team sponsible for the administration, operation and dioceseokc.org. player and able to multi-task. To apply, call 263- management of the affairs of the Foundation. 4658, fax 263-4718, e-mail [email protected] or in Position involves planning and implementation of Adjunct Faculty Openings person at 635 W. Texas, Okarche 73762. EOE development strategies, including donor solicita- The College for Working Adults at St. tion and managing of capital campaigns, planned Gregory’s University has adjunct faculty open- giving and endowment programs, knowledgeable ings on all campus locations in Tulsa, Shawnee communication skills with financial managers, and OKC at the undergraduate level for courses in Parish Offers Hymnals direct mail, public relations and special events. It Environmental Studies and Accounting Control LAWTON — Holy Family Parish has also involves the oversight of the scholarship and Systems. Candidates for undergraduate courses replaced hymnals and altar servers albs. grant allocations on an annual basis, preparing are required to hold a minimum of a master’s Any parish in need of several hundred Ritual an annual operating budget and preparation of degree in the preferred subject, doctoral degrees song books or 30-plus altar server albs, all appropriate monthly and annual reports. Require- preferred, and related business and industry in fair/good condition, please contact Fred experience. Adjunct faculty openings at the ments are a bachelor’s degree in a related field Krieger, Tuesday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to graduate level requires a doctorate in Health Care or equivalent combination of education and 4:30 p.m. at 580-536-6351. experience inclusive of development and charita- Management/Health Care Administration or a ble funding. Successful candidate would need a doctorate in Management/Business with an area December 6, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 15 Calendar DECEMBER submission deadline is Dec. 16. St. Mary School is located at the corner 6 Second Sunday of Advent OKC Parishes of Warner Avenue and Oak in Guthrie. Booth space is available for $25 per 8 Immaculate Conception of the Plan Celebrations booth (approximately 10x10 foot Virgin Mary — Holy Day of for Feast Day of space), tables are available $10 each. Obligation Please mail application and check Our Lady (payable to St. Mary’s School) to Attn: 8 Catholic War Veterans (of any Pam Bradley, 502 E. Warner Ave., war/conflict) will meet the second The Feast Day for Our Lady Guthrie, Okla. 73044, phone 282-2071, Tuesday of each month in the of Guadalupe is Dec. 12. Several fax 282-2924, e-mail bbradley7@- community room of St. Ann Oklahoma City area parishes cox.net. Retirement Center at 7 p.m. For more have planned special events to information, contact Father M. Price celebrate the Feast Day. 20 Fourth Sunday of Advent Oswalt at (405) 567-3404. At Sacred Heart Church 20 The Community of the Secular 9 Catholic War Veterans USA. The in Oklahoma City Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary Oklahoma Memorial Post 168 will December 11 of Mt. Carmel and St. Teresa of hold their monthly meeting at 6:30 5 a.m. - Spanish Mass Jesus - Oklahoma Community and p.m. in the Sunnylane Family 8 p.m. - Living Rosary Province of St. Therese meets at St. Reception Center located at 3900 9 p.m. - Holy Hour Joseph Carmelite Monastery in SE 29th St. in Del City. For more 10:30 p.m. - Apparitions Piedmont from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. For information, contact Bob at (405) 672- December 12 more information, call Susan Staudt 7728 or by e-mail at OkPost168@- 12 a.m. - Mañanitas with Mariachi in gymnasium and church at (405) 282-6624 or Sister Silvia cox.net. 1 a.m. - Spanish Mass Negrete at (405) 232-7926. 2 a.m. - Chocolate and Mexican bread 9 Eucharistic Adoration at the 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. - Procession from Holy Angels to Sacred Heart, 20 Taize Prayer, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Music Red Plains Monastery, 728 Richland Help, NW 32nd and Western, every 7 p.m. - Bilingual Mass Road SW, Piedmont, Okla. For more Wednesday beginning with Mass at 8:30 p.m. - St. Juan Diego and Our Lady contest details, call 373-4565. Optional video 8:30 a.m. and ends at noon. All are on Taize prayer at 6 p.m. welcome. At St. Joseph Old Cathedral in Oklahoma City December 12 10 Exposition of the Blessed Las Mañanitas at 5 a.m. Sacrament at Epiphany Parish, Mass at 6 a.m. 20 The Secular Franciscan Order in the chapel every Thursday, Breakfast at 7 a.m. of St. Francis Fraternity meets at 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and daily (M,T,W,F) Apparitions at 6 p.m. 1:15 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Hospital from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. All are Dinner at 7 p.m. Chapel. For more information, call welcome. Epiphany is located at 7336 Jim Disbrow at 830-8688. W. Britton Road, Oklahoma City At Saint Eugene Catholic Church in Oklahoma City 73132. December 12 Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe: Mañanitas at 5:30 a.m. 20 Pilgrimage Sunday, Mass begins 11-12 24-Hour Advent Retreat for Holy Mass at 6:30 a.m. followed by breakfast fiesta with Mariachis at 11 a.m. and includes blessing of the Women at the Mount. Arrive at 6:30 and Matachines. sick and blessing of the children, noon p.m. for supper and ends the 12th at lunch, 1 p.m. Novena prayers to Infant 4:30 p.m. Joanne Forgue will be the Jesus of Prague, Litany of the Infant Jesus, and Adoration of the Blessed facilitator. The cost is $55. For more 17-25 Monthly Novena to The 19 Catholic Singles Dance at Saint Sacrament. National Shrine of the information or to register, call Sister Infant Jesus. Nine days of Novenas Charles Borromeo Church, 5024 N. Infant Jesus of Prague is located at Betty at 634-1968. to Infant Jesus of Prague monthly. Grove Avenue, starting at 7 p.m. Saint Wenceslaus Catholic Church at During these nine days, the Novena Admission is $6 For more information, 304 Jim Thorpe Blvd. in Prague. 12 The Benedictine Oblates of Red prayers will be as follows: Monday- e-mail [email protected]. From I-40, take exit 200 north 7 miles Plains Monastery will meet from Friday following noon Mass, Saturday on SH99/377; or from I-44, take 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. They join the following 6 p.m. Mass, and Sunday Stroud exit south 18 miles on Community for Vespers, followed by a following 11 a.m. Mass. 19 St. Mary School’s Holiday potluck dinner. For more information, Market is set for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. SH99/377. (405) 567-3080 or www.- contact Sister Eunice at 373-4565 or The Holiday Market invites hand- shrineofinfantjesus.com. [email protected]. 18 Mount St. Mary home basket- made artisans to come be a part of ball game vs. CHA varsity girls, 6:30 this event. We also welcome small 25 Christmas — Holy Day of 13 Third Sunday of Advent p.m. Varsity boys 8 p.m. business owners and community Obligation groups to the market. Application 16 Sooner Catholic ● December 6, 2009 Parish Builds On 60 Years By Cara Koenig The parish celebrated its actual The Sooner Catholic anniversary on Nov 22, the Feast Day of OKLAHOMA CITY — Christ the Christ the King. Mass was celebrated at King Church and School is celebrating its 10 a.m. with the choir singing Mozart’s 60th anniversary this year. But instead of coronation Mass. Later that day an organ celebrating only among themselves, it recital was offered by Edwin Day, the was decided the parish and school would music director for the parish. A dinner at give back to the community. the Oklahoma City Golf and Country “I am a big advocate of Habitat for Club concluded the day with more than Humanity and have always wanted to 450 in attendance. build a house,” said Father Rick The event attracted Christ the King Stansberry, pastor at Christ the King. “As teachers, both past and present, as well a parish we have been talking about as Father Joseph Ross, the only living building a house for a few years and it prior pastor. Also attending were a dozen was decided the anniversary year would founding members of the parish, as well be the best time.” as hundreds of current parishioners. The project would be called “Home for The Distinguished Alumni of the Year the Holidays” with the goal of finishing Award was announced, going to Tulsa’s the house in time for a family to move Monsignor Dorney, who will be at the in before Christmas. Parishioners began parish Jan. 24, 2010, to receive the award. building the house Oct. 24 and are ahead It was also announced at the dinner that of schedule. The expected completion date the Little Red School House Preschool was set at Dec. 5 with a dedication and would be incorporated into Christ the blessing on Dec 12. King School next year. “This has been a big positive for the The Little Red School House is owned parish,” said Father Stansberry. “We had by a parishioner and teaches ages 3 more volunteers than we could use and through 5 years old. “Christ the King the $70,000 that needed to be raised to School has not had a preschool program build the house came in very quickly as until this year partly because of space well.” and partly because the Little Red is a More than 200 people from 16 years feeder into us,” said Father Stansberry. old and up have worked on the house. He said “80 percent” of the children at the Father Stansberry said the Habitat school enroll in Christ the King and most Jay Haag and Ethan Berney work on the Habitat house. for Humanity officials said Christ the of the teachers are parishioners. King was the first Catholic parish to build “Karen Carter, the school principal, a house from start to finish. After such a and I have been working on this process great experience, Father Stansberry said and some things are still being worked he hopes the parish will choose to build a out but they will be part of Christ the Habitat house every other year. King,” Father said.

Chris Harrell wrapping the house. Founding members Frank Shidler Sr. and his wife, Shirley.