Sooner Catholic Serving the People of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Volume 37, Number 17 * September 11, 2011 Catholic Charities Centennial Prayer

O God of the ages, With every sunrise, You gift us with work for our hands. With every sunset, You grant us rest for our hearts.

May the light of each new day Give us faith in things unseen, Hope for victories yet unrealized, Charity for those who struggle.

May the dusk of each night Bring us dreams of a better world, Visions of our cause triumphant, Love for the sacrifices asked of us.

Grant your Church yet another century of service, Or time enough to build your Kingdom. This we ask in the name of Jesus, Our Lord. Amen and Amen. By Father James Goins

Inside Anniversary trip to Santiago Atitlan, Guatemala 11-15 23 Painter rescues Our Lady 2 Sooner Catholic ● September 11, 2011 Sooner Catholic Catholic Charities Annual “Put out into the Most Reverend Appeal Celebrates One deep and Paul S. Coakley lower Archbishop of Oklahoma City Publisher Hundred Years of Service your nets A once in a lifetime opportunity We do not provide these services for a Ray Dyer is rare indeed! Even rarer is an because those we serve may happen catch.” event that comes around only every to be Catholic (many are not), but Archbishop Editor Luke 5:4 hundred years. Next weekend, we because we are Catholic. Caring for Coakley begin just such an observance. The Christ in his distressing disguise Cara Koenig annual Catholic Charities Appeal, of poverty is not an option for housing for families and the elderly, Photographer/ which will be held next weekend in Catholics, but a responsibility. care for women with unexpected Special Projects parishes across the Archdiocese, “Whatever you do to the least of my pregnancies, sanctuary for homeless coincides with the 100th anniver- brothers and sisters, you do to me.” women who have no place to turn. 7501 Northwest Expressway sary of the founding of Catholic (Mt 25:40) We assist immigrants and refugees Oklahoma City, OK 73132 Charities in Oklahoma! The rich who are making a new start and The types of services which legacy of Catholic Charities in our many other services as well. (405) 721-1810 Fax: (405) 721-5210 state began with the opening of St. Catholic Charities offers in the e-mail: [email protected] Joseph Orphanage in Bethany early name of the Church have expanded We would be unable to offer Mailing Address: P.O. Box 32180 in 1912. From that time until today with the changing needs of individ- such an array of services to so many the work of Catholic Charities has uals and families over the course of of our neighbors in need without the Oklahoma City, OK 73123 continued to expand throughout our the last century. The places where generous support of our Catholic state and Archdiocese. It can only these services are offered have people. The Catholic Charities Visit us online through the continue with our generous and continued to expand as well. Annual Appeal will be held in each Archdiocesan Web Page at Today Catholic Charities provides parish of the Archdiocese over the sacrificial support. www.catharchdioceseokc.org. counseling services, emergency re- weekend of Sept. 17-18. I appeal to The many works and services of sponse and case management. you to be generous. Make a sacrifi- Catholic Charities express the care Catholic Charities offers support for cial gift. I know you will do what The Sooner Catholic (USPS 066-910) is and concern of the Catholic Church families and adoption services. We you can and I thank you for your published biweekly except for once in July for our brothers and sisters in need. provide service-enriched affordable support. and twice in December by the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Archbishop Coakley’s Calendar The newspaper is not responsible for The following events are part of Archbishop Coakley’s official calendar. unsolicited material. September 11 - Mass for Feast of Our Lady of LaVang, Our Lady’s Cathedral, 11:45 a.m. Copyright © 2011 Sooner Catholic September 11 - Archbishop’s Annual Picnic for Archdiocesan Staff, Catholic Pastoral Center, 5 p.m. September 12 - United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Committee Meetings, Washington, D.C. Subscription rate: $20 per year for all September 13 - Archdiocesan Finance Council Meeting, Catholic Pastoral Center, 2 p.m. who are not members of the September 14 - Opening Prayer at Domestic Violence Conference, Embassy Suites, Norman, 8:30 a.m. September 15 - Mass and classroom visits, Christ the King School, Oklahoma City, 8:15 a.m. Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. September 15 - Vocations Board Meeting, Catholic Pastoral Center, 1 p.m. Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma September 15 - Meeting with Editorial Board of The Daily Oklahoman, 3 p.m. City, OK 73125. September 16 - Mass, Archdiocesan Teacher Institute, Catholic Pastoral Center, 8:30 a.m. POSTMASTER: Send address changes September 16 - Presentation of Teacher of the Year Award, Catholic Pastoral Center, 1:15 p.m. to the Sooner Catholic, P.O. Box September 17 - Opening Prayer and Welcome, Archdiocesan Catechetical Congress, Catholic Pastoral Center, 8:30 a.m. 32180, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. September 17 - Presentation of Religious Education Teacher of the Year Award, Catholic Pastoral Center, 11:45 a.m. September 17 - Mass, Archdiocesan Catechetical Congress, Catholic Pastoral Center, 12 p.m. September 18 - Young Adult Mass and Cookout, Catholic Pastoral Center, 3 p.m. September 20 - Mass at Catholic Pastoral Center, 11:30 a.m. September 20 - Good Leaders Good Shepherds Luncheon and Meeting with Priests, Catholic Pastoral Center, 12 p.m. September 20 - Archdiocesan Review Board Meeting, Catholic Pastoral Center, 3 p.m. September 21 - Priests Council Meeting, Catholic Pastoral Center, 9:30 a.m. September 22 - Mass and classroom visits, St. James School, Oklahoma City, 8:30 a.m. September 22 - Catholic Charities Board Meeting, 12 p.m. The Sooner Catholic is September 24 - Prayer Service and Reception with Benedictine Sisters, Epiphany of the Lord Church, 2 p.m. supported through the September 24 - Red Mass, Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 5 p.m. Archdiocesan Development Fund. September 25 - Guest Speaker at 40 Days for Life Rally, Christ the King Church, 3 p.m. September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 3 The Trojan Horse Is At The Gate By Archbishop tration. Included among these are drugs like Ella, religious affiliation and taught his followers to do Paul S. Coakley which actually cause abortions in the early weeks likewise (as in the Parable of the Good Samaritan) of pregnancy by inhibiting the implantation of would not be included under the narrow umbrella f you recall the story of the the human embryo. It mandates “education and of this so-called religious exemption. Trojan horse, you may counseling” to promote these measures among all As written, this religious exemption is too IIunderstand why there is women of reproductive capacity. narrow to protect many Catholic organizations good reason to be very Though the entire mandate is essentially from opting out of this mandate. Catholic hospitals concerned about a new federal flawed and should be rescinded, it has another very and even Catholic Charities agencies, both of which mandate that may soon take serious problem. It contains no real conscience provide services without regard for religious affilia- effect. This new federal regula- protection for those who may have moral objections tion, would not qualify for an exemption. They tion under the authority of last to participating in or paying for such plans and would be forced to provide and pay for insurance year’s health care reform act procedures. It contains such an extremely narrow coverage for procedures which violate Catholic will soon require all employers religious conscience exemption that Jesus himself moral teaching. who provide health insurance would fail to qualify! What can we do? The Department of Health plans to cover an array of preventive services and Human Services is allowing comments on this Under the proposed religious exemption, only for women that include contraceptives and female interim final rule until Sept. 30. Please take the those employers would be excused from this sterilization. time to visit the following link and register your mandate if their primary mission is the inculcation Among the very disturbing elements of this opposition before it is too late. The Trojan horse is of religious doctrine, if their employees and those mandate is the fact that it treats pregnancy as a at the gate! disease or a disabling condition, which clearly it is whom they serve are people of their own faith, and not. Secondly, it places a major focus on mandatory they are considered a church or a religious order Please take a moment to visit the following coverage for surgical sterilization and all contra- in the narrow sense. Under these very restrictive link and register your opposition: http://nchla.org/- ceptives approved by the Food and Drug Adminis- conditions, Jesus, who healed without regard for actiondisplay.asp?ID=299. U.S. Bishops: Contraception Mandate Coerces Religious Groups Washington, D.C. (CNA/EWTN quirements of the 2010 health care News) — The HHS contraception It is “an unprecedented attack on religious legislation. A 60-day comment period mandate for insurance plans is “more on the regulations began on Aug. 1. radical” than any other in the United liberty” to require that religious people and Other prominent Catholics have States and entails “nationwide coer- opposed the regulations, including cion of religious people and groups,” groups sell, broker or purchase services to Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of the U.S. bishops general counsel said Galveston-Houston. as he called for the mandate to be which they have religious or moral objections. “Pregnancy is not a disease, rescinded. and fertility is not a pathological “Only rescission will eliminate all condition to be suppressed by any of the serious moral problems the that excludes objectionable items. They criticized a proposed reli- means technically possible,” he said mandate creates,” said Anthony “Until now, no federal law has gious exemption as “narrower than July 19, while the rules were under Picarello, general counsel for the U.S. prevented private insurers from any conscience clause ever enacted in consideration. Conference of Catholic Bishops. accommodating purchasers and plan federal law” and narrower than the Sister Carol Keehan, president Picarello and bishops conference sponsors with moral or religious “vast majority” of exemptions from and CEO of the Catholic Health Asso- associate general counsel Michael objections to certain services,” state contraception mandates. ciation, has criticized the religious Moses submitted an Aug. 31 com- they said. “Likewise, federal law The exemptions cover a non- exemption as “not broad enough to ment to the Department of Health did not forbid any insurer, such profit religious employer whose protect our Catholic health care and Human Services criticizing its as a religiously-affiliated insurer, to purpose is “the inculcation of reli- providers.” She helped pass the requirement that insurers provide exclude from its plans any services gious values,” which primarily em- health care legislation last year. sterilization and contraception, in- to which the insurer itself had ploys persons who share its religious A group of Obama-friendly cluding some drugs like Ella, which a moral or religious objection. In- tenets, and which primarily serves Catholic leaders and professors also can cause abortions. deed, the freedom to exclude morally those who share its religious beliefs. issued an Aug. 26 open letter to HHS It is “an unprecedented attack on objectionable services has sometimes The exemptions would not apply to Secretary Kathleen Sebelius seeking religious liberty” to require that reli- been stated affirmatively in federal many Catholic colleges and universi- an expansion of religious protections. gious people and groups sell, broker law.” ties, charities, social service agencies The requirements are also being or purchase services to which they Picarello and Moses said the and health-care providers. opposed by the San Diego-based St. have religious or moral objections, mandate violates the Weldon amend- Secular organizations with objec- Gianna Physician’s Guild, which has the attorneys said. Under the ment, the 2010 health care legisla- tions to coverage of contraceptives or launched an online petition against new mandate, religiously-affiliated tion and the Obama administration’s sterilization will also be ineligible, them. employers will be “affirmatively stated policy to exclude from the they noted. Unless the regulations are re- barred” from offering a plan to the mandate any drug that can cause an The HHS released the mandates scinded, they will take effect on Aug. public, or even to fellow believers, abortion. as part of the preventive care re- 1, 2012. 4 Sooner Catholic ● September 11, 2011

Dear Friends of Catholic Charities: On Oct. 6, 1912, St. Joseph Orphanage in Bethany opened its doors for the care of orphans. This milestone marked the beginning of Catholic Charities’ ministry to the poor and its commitment to protecting the lives and security of individuals, families and children who were materially deprived and at risk in Oklahoma. In announcing our 2011 appeal, Catholic Charities is launching a year to celebrate our 100- year legacy as well as to recommit ourselves for the next 100 years of ministry to children and families throughout Oklahoma. Our theme — One hundred Tim O’Connor years of faith, hope and charity — both reflects on our very rich history and calls each one of us to help bring about the Kingdom of God by growing in our faith and service to others. Our history has been built on the self-sacrifice of many clergy and reli- gious who stood with children and families in times of economic hardship, family separation and disaster. Our legacy has flourished by the millions of acts of service and prayers of our faithful benefactors, volunteers and professional staff who live their lives in service to others. Our heritage has been blessed by the trust and confidence of those whom we have served with compassion and love. At an early age, we learn that Charity is what we do for others: giving alms to the poor, sheltering the homeless and visiting the sick and im- prisoned. But the history of our Catholic Charities teaches us that Charity is so much more. Charity is God’s blessing on all humanity, as we build an inclusive Kingdom where the gifts of all are revered and shared. So much more remains to be done in the next 100 years! Please be generous to our 2011 Catholic Charities Appeal. Gratefully yours, Tim O’Connor

Please consider pledging at least one hour’s wages per month to support these Catholic Charities programs: Maternity and Adoption Services provided services to 90 people in 2010. Holy Family Maternity Home serves over 40 teenage mothers per year. Family Support Services provided over $200,000 in rent, utility and other assistance in the past year. Transitional Housing was provided to 44 clients. Service-Enriched Housing serves over 150 income-eligible families and seniors annually. Disaster Relief helps hundreds of families each year whose lives and homes are harmed by tornadoes, flooding and other disasters. Refugee Resettlement partners with the U.S. State Department to assist people who have been persecuted for religious and social reasons. Sanctuary Women’s Development Center helped 486 homeless women and children in 2010. Immigration Services offers legal assistance and citizenship and naturalization services for immigrants with family members in the United States. Advocacy Services provides a voice for the unborn, the poor and vulnerable in public policy debates. Faith Community Nurse Development provides education and support to promote health ministry. St. Joseph Counseling Center provides confidential counseling services to hundreds of parish-referred individuals, groups, families and children each year. September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 5 100 Years of Faith, Hope and Charity: Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City The seeds for Catholic Charities of the Arch- diocese of Oklahoma City were planted in 1910 when Father John Schaefer purchased land in Bethany to establish an orphanage for children who could not be reared by family due to separa- tion, abandonment, deprivation or death. Two years later, St. Joseph’s Orphanage opened, providing thousands of Oklahoma children a home with the opportunity for education and support as they grew into young adults, and with it, began the works of Catholic Charities. At the heart of Catholic Charities, however, is the social mission of the Church, which includes instructions for the faithful to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, welcome the stranger, visit the imprisoned, and care for the sick and dying. It is this social mission that has been expressed in the services of Catholic Charities in Oklahoma for nearly 100 years. Since it began, Catholic Charities has provided comprehensive social services to poor and vulnerable children, families, pregnant women, elderly and other individuals through- St. Joseph Orphanage, Bethany, in 1915. Sooner Catholic Archives. out Oklahoma, regardless of religious affiliation, race, national origin or gender. Today, Catholic programs include disaster and emergency relief, Charities is a major private provider of social transitional housing, homeless services and services to children, families and individuals in faith community nurse training. You’re Invited! Oklahoma, working alongside public and private Over the years, Catholic Charities has also As Catholic Charities marks its 100th organizations to help meet the basic needs of expanded to include offices in Lawton, Clinton anniversary, they invite you to join them for those who have the least. In addition to its direct and Enid, as well as its headquarters in special events and celebrations. Also, please services, Catholic Charities also advocates at Oklahoma City. Opened in 1992, the Lawton visit their website often for specific event the local and state levels for public policy that regional office provides long-term case manage- dates, as well as stories, photos and anec- promotes the common good on behalf of those ment, emergency financial assistance and dotes about the organization’s first century. whose voices are not heard. counseling services. The Lawton office also Do you have a story that you would like While its earliest programs were related provides emergency services and service coordi- to share about ways in which Catholic to adoption and foster care, today’s Catholic nation to residents of Villanova Apartments, an Charities has touched your life? If so, Charities’ services touch many different facets of apartment complex for low-income families. The call 800-375-8514 or e-mail jmoon@catholic- life in Oklahoma, from adoption and housing to Clinton and Enid regional offices offer case charitiesok.org. family counseling, refugee services and immi- management and counseling services. Further- Catholic Charities Annual Meeting - Celebrating 100 Years of gration. These services, many of which grew more, adoption services and immigration legal Faith, Hope and Charity organically from a true need in the community, assistance are available to Lawton, Clinton and February 2012 are still thriving today. For example, in 1975, to Enid clients through the Oklahoma City office. assist with the many displaced people after the This month, a new regional office opened in Catholic Charities Adoption Reunion Vietnam War, Catholic Charities began provid- Guymon to provide immigration legal assistance May 2012 ing relocation and resettlement services to and social services for children and families. refugees. Twelve years later, in 1987, the Immi- In addition to its emphasis on service, Refugee Reunion gration Legal Assistance program began. St. Catholic Charities also strives to be one of the July 2012 Joseph’s Counseling Program was started in state’s leading nonprofit organizations, earning 1990 to provide individual and group counseling. a full four-year accreditation by the Council on St. Joseph’s Orphanage Reunion In 1993, the Holy Family Maternity Home Accreditation since 2007. Additionally, for the June 2012 opened as a program to serve pregnant and last two years, Charity Navigator, a national parenting teens. In 1995, the Family H.O.P.E. service that rates the financial health of non- Anniversary Final Celebration and (Help, Organize, Prioritize, Empower) case profits, has awarded the agency the highest 4- Time Capsule Dedication management program was established. Other star rating for sound fiscal management. October 2012 6 Sooner Catholic ● September 11, 2011 Disaster Recovery is a Hands-On Aspect of Catholic Charities “When you work in a Disaster Recovery Center, you encounter people in every stage of grief and emotional and physical turmoil,” says Damon Britton, associate director for Children and Family Services at Catholic Charities. After the deadly tornadoes of May 24, the Federal Emergency Management Agency opened Disaster Recovery Centers in multiple Oklahoma locations and Catholic Charities staff members provided assis- tance in all of them. Case managers met with disaster survivors in Piedmont, Blanchard, Guthrie, Kingfisher and Chickasha. In each location staff members worked to meet immediate needs and help plan for long-term assistance. “A DRC is essentially a one-stop shop for disaster recovery services,” Britton says. FEMA sets up the center in a local school, church or other facility. Services include not only FEMA but the Small Business Administration, state and local government agencies such as the Department of Human Services, and local nonprofit agencies. Each agency has a specific role coordinated by the State of Oklahoma Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster. Catholic Charities’ role is to provide long-term recovery case management. This service begins at the DRC and can extend for up to two years. The goal of long-term recovery case management is to help clients return to their pre-disaster condition. One resident from Chickasha said, “Catholic Charities listened to me. They let me talk about my situation. They let me cry and then they helped me figure out a plan to recover. That day at the DRC I received a gas voucher so I could get back and forth to my property. I also got enough gift Catholic Charities Facilities Management Director Mike Carrasco delivers cards to buy cleaning supplies and food. I also got a good dose of hope.” beds to a disaster victim in Cement.

Beyond Reading, Writing and Arithmetic: How St. Joseph’s Counseling Center Helps Students in Times of Crisis For many people, childhood is often re- and stress differently than others, so parents or revert to an earlier stage of development (i.e. membered as a happy and carefree time, where should be aware of signs of longer-term difficul- thumb sucking), or an adolescent may seem the most trying lessons were one of the three Rs. ties, which may require additional assistance. angry or easily frustrated when he or she is sad. There are times, however, when a crisis arises at Some signs of more serious depression and “Throughout the years, we have worked with one of Oklahoma’s parochial schools that not anxiety in children can include sleep problems, several schools to educate and support students, only impacts a student’s performance, but also faculty and staff about the stages of grief and his or her emotional well-being. When that oc- loss,” Palmer said. “I believe this support is help- curs, St. Joseph’s Counseling Center at Catholic ful to everyone, including parents and faculty Charities is available to offer counseling and who need to help guide their students through support, as well as age-appropriate treatment, to the process while working through their own help a student move forward. feelings of loss. To help ease this difficult time, “When a crisis occurs at one of the schools, parents and faculty are given information about such as a student or faculty death, it can be very talking to their children/students and they are difficult for all of those affected. To help ease the encouraged to seek professional assistance if situation, we work closely with the administra- they do not observe improvement over the course tion, parents and teachers to help with notifying of a few weeks.” the students of the particular incident and provide grief counseling to classes or individual She said, “At St. Joseph’s Counseling Center, students as needed,” said Monica Palmer, we are committed to ensuring each member of Catholic Charities associate director of Clinical the Archdiocese has access to mental health Services. “Some students may need additional appetite decrease, change in interest level of services, no matter what the age or need. assistance due to symptoms of depression, usually enjoyed activities, irritable mood, re- Parents and faculty have been very gracious anxiety, family and social issues. In those cases, duced engagement in social ties, and trouble to our team and seem quite receptive to our we work closely with his or her family to help, with concentration and memory. A drastic presence in their schools. I believe this helps which can include up to six free counseling change in academic performance or tempera- them know that they are not alone and that we sessions for the student or family.” ment can indicate a more serious problem. For are honored to help them in the most difficult of Palmer said some children deal with grief example, an elementary-aged child may regress times.” September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 7 Creating a Safe Haven in Oklahoma for People From Throughout the World Throughout its history, Catholic that allowed them to flee and Charities has responded to social survive their displacement. While need by creating programs that the surroundings and cultural offer solutions. In the aftermath of differences require some adjust- the Vietnam War, an incredible new ment, the refugees are already need would arise: refugee services. adept at applying themselves to the In 1975, after the fall of Saigon kind of changes that help them to to the communist Viet Cong, transition into self-sufficiency in an thousands of Southeast Asian American community.” refugees emigrated to the United In the years since this program States to escape the cruelties of a began, many former refugees have new regime and the widespread not only become proud U.S. citizens, destruction of their homeland. they have thrived in making their As the wave of refugees grew, the mark throughout the state as U.S. State Department appealed business owners, professionals and to religious organizations, including even public servants. Catholic Charities, to help relocate Today, largely funded through incoming families and provide the U.S. State Department, the services to help them adjust to their Refugee Resettlement Program new lives in the United States. operates as an affiliate of the This event significantly ex- Migration and Refugee Services of panded the scope of Catholic the U.S. Conference of Catholic Charities’ Refugee Resettlement Bishops. The program offers recep- Program. Between January 1976 tion and placement services for the and the late 1980s, the program first 90 days to about 150 newly helped ease the transition for arrived refugees each year. Job hundreds of Vietnamese, Laotian orientation and preparation takes and Cambodian refugees, who place during this period with the ments and hold some jobs. people it helps, but by the level to would need places to live, employ- goal of early employment and self- Sahar Aldurobi, a refugee which clients are able to sink new ment, English classes and enroll- sufficiency. through the program two years ago, roots into the community and ment in the public schools for their Ryan said most information was educated and employed with accomplish their dreams. children. about refugees focuses on the the government and owned her own “Over the years, Catholic “From its earliest days, Catholic horrors of torture, imprisonment, home. She describes her trauma Charities’ Refugee Resettlement Charities’ refugee program has the murder of family members, and founded on fears for her children’s Office has acted as a guiding hand been devoted to providing a safe primitive refugee camps. However, safety in a country torn apart by for refugees from Europe, Africa, haven to people who qualified for she said that while many have aggression, violence and the war Asia and South America,” Ryan refugee status due to religious, suffered some level of violence, the atmosphere that was ingrained in said. “Many of our clients may come political and racial/ethnic persecu- experience of the refugee varies Sadam Hussein’s dictatorship. from different cultures, educational tion,” said Aimee Ryan, Refugee Re- widely. While the African and “I was free, but I would never levels and economic backgrounds, settlement director. “Our program Burmese refugees often live in truly be free,” Aldurobi recalls. but all are joined by their opportu- focuses on the strength of the camps, Ryan said, some from other Ryan said the program’s suc- nity for an extraordinary new refugee and builds on those skills countries are allowed to rent apart- cess is measured not by how many future.”

“Through the seven years that I was the director of the Refugee Program at Catholic Social Ministries (now Catholic Charities), we helped with the placement of refugees from several ethnic groups from Southeast Asia that spoke 18 different languages. The majority were Vietnamese. With the help of Catholic Social Ministries, the state of Oklahoma became a little United Nations — a place where life could begin anew for thousands of refugees — even former enemies — who could now live together in peace.” (Sister Anne Wisda, I.H.M. - Refugee Resettlement Director, 1976-1983) 8 Sooner Catholic ● September 11, 2011 Removing the Myths of Adoption Since 1912, Catholic Charities better opportunities and a more has worked to provide safe, loving stable environment. homes to children throughout the A child can be placed with a Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Over loving and responsible couple at any the years, the organization has placed time and will continue to have a ful- thousands of children and changed filling and positive life. This also will numerous lives. allow the mother to focus on making As Catholic Charities Adoption other positive choices in her life. Services nears its 100th anniversary, It never hurts to talk with a profes- program director Kirsten Lee, sional about her options and her M.S.W., shares some of the top five wishes for herself and the child. myths and realities of adoption: Myth #3: Children who are adopted are different than biological Myth #1: Adoption is selfish and children. irresponsible. Children who are adopted de- Adoption is neither selfish nor velop and grow no differently than irresponsible. In fact, it is one of the biological children. In fact, adopted most selfless decisions a mother can children can be successful in life and make. A birth mother who places a have a rewarding and loving relation- child for adoption is willing to be ship with their adopted family. While honest with herself and admit that some children grow in their mother’s she either does not want to parent womb, some grow in their mother and or is not emotionally, physically or father’s hearts. financially stable enough to parent. Catholic Charities works closely An adoption plan takes a lot of with adoptive parents to ensure the responsibility as it involves paper- child adjusts positively into their work, meetings, court dates and family. Even if the child is of a making sure both the mother and the different race or culture, each is com- baby remain healthy. It is a very pletely a part of the family and com- courageous act and a priceless gift to pletely loved. It is not unusual for give to a couple. Any mother who families to incorporate their child’s works with a professional adoption culture into their own culture by cele- Adoption promotion posters and materials are available from Catholic Charities. agency is making a thoughtful and brating certain holidays and creating loving arrangement for her child that open and honest discussions about exactly where her child is going and However, in some cases, relation- will enable him or her to lead a their child’s race and heritage. has tremendous faith in the couple ships are not possible. In those situa- healthy and positive life. Myth #4: A woman who places a she chose. Many mothers choose to tions, Catholic Charities can still be of Myth #2: Once the child is born, child for adoption has no control in receive pictures of their children after assistance in providing adoptees with it is too late to consider adoption. what happens to the child. they have been placed and some even additional information about their It is never too late to consider A woman who places her child for establish an open relationship with birth or birth family that may answer adoption through Catholic Charities. adoption is making a thoughtful, the child and the adopted parents. long-held questions regarding health It has been our experience that some carefully planned and loving decision. Myth #5: An adoptee and birth histories and family trees. birth mothers want to try parenting It is a plan that takes time and care- family can never reconnect once they Catholic Charities has recently and realize weeks, months or years ful consideration of various aspects. A are separated. developed adoption promotion later that they are not meant to be a birth mother has many options in Catholic Charities has a success- posters and materials which are suit- parent at this time in their lives. De- deciding how she wants her adoption ful post-adoption program that has able for schools, health clinics and spite her best intentions, the mother plan to proceed and makes decisions helped adult adoptees and birth doctors offices. For more information may not have the support or assis- for herself and her child. families reconnect years following about these materials or about tance needed to raise a child and may In many cases, the birth mother placement. It is not unusual for Catholic Charities Adoption Services be unable to manage everything all may select the adoptive couple and adoptees and birth families to es- in general, contact Kirsten Lee or on her own. In these situations, the may even meet the couple more than tablish a relationship that lasts for Stephanie Storozyszyn at (405) 523- birth mother makes a choice to be once to assure that they are the best years and can provide peace and 3012 or visit www.catholiccharities- a good mother by giving her child parents for her child. She knows comfort to both parties involved. ok.org. September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 9 Homeless Women and Children Find Sanctuary Visitors to the Sanctuary Bewley says Sanctuary case Women’s Development Center are managers and volunteers work with often struck by the laughter which is clients to teach good problem-solving a common sound each day. skills and help them see their own “Loneliness is a common de- self-worth. As a result of intensive nominator in our clients,” says case case management, 72 families were manager Kirby Bewley at the moved out of homelessness and into Sanctuary, which is operated by housing in the past year. Catholic Charities in south For some families, finances are Oklahoma City, to provide a safe, the only barrier keeping them from nurturing environment for homeless overcoming homelessness; for others, women and their children. More it is domestic violence and mental importantly, however, Bewley says illness. “Women who come to the center offers a joyful respite, an Sanctuary often have issues from escape from worry. childhood that affect their lives,” Caring for mothers and infants: Over the years, Catholic Charities has Last year the Sanctuary served Bewley says. “Many suffer from cared for thousands of young mothers and their babies through its nearly 1,000 clients. Bewley says anxiety or depression. Counseling programs for expectant mothers. This tradition, which began in the 1920s more than 95 percent of the clients can break the cycle.” with Our Lady of Victory Maternity Home in Bethany (above,) continues participated in some form of case For more information about the today with the Holy Family Maternity Home in Midwest City (below). management. “Each wanted to cre- Sanctuary, contact director Amy ate a permanent change in her life.” Hampton at (405) 526-2321. Creating HOPE For Families Catholic Charities Family Support Services has seen an increase of nearly 50 percent in the number of families requesting financial assistance this year, said Damon Britton, associate director of Children’s and Family Services. Family Support Services includes the Emergency Rent and Utility Assistance, Transitional Housing, and Family HOPE Case Management programs for families in crisis. Britton said the increase in requests could be due to the poor economy, excessively hot weather, or a combination of both. Last year 265 clients participated in the Family HOPE program. This long-term case management program helps working families who are in financial crisis. HOPE is an acronym for “Help, Organize, Prioritize, Empower.” “We have seen an increase in the number of clients seeking aid for the first time in the past year,” said Family HOPE case manager Cindy Kearney. “Many have lost their jobs or had their hours cut at work. Their situations are more complicated than those we have seen in previous years.” Britton described the case of a single mother, determined to create a better life for her family, who enrolled in the Family HOPE program. “Developing a maternity home program in the 1990s Catholic Charities provided her transitional housing while she worked with was a definite pro-life action. In one instance I was the case manager to develop a service plan to pay down debt. Her goal was to purchase a house for her family. The mother worked endlessly on the talking to the residents and it was sad to me that service plan to take care of her family by meeting intermediate financial none of the young mothers had ever been on a date. goals and then to achieve her ultimate goal. She purchased a home for her They were mothers but had never had the special feel- family last December and now is financially secure, Britton said. Through the Emergency Rent and Utility Assistance program, with ing of being taken out by someone. Holy Family Home special support from the Inasmuch Foundation, 635 families received rent or seeks to increase self-esteem, coping and parenting utility assistance last year. In addition, the agency’s Transitional Housing program provided safe and affordable housing to 74 people. skills of residents. It also offers the adoption option.” Brad Hyde, assistant director of Family Support Services, summed up Pat Froehle, Catholic Charities Assistant Director, the program by saying, “Standing with our clients, encouraging them to 1991-1999 succeed in achieving their goals is the greatest gift we can give.” 10 Sooner Catholic ● September 11, 2011 Catholic Charities Opens New Office in Lawton

Providing emergency rent and utility assistance and case management to the citizens of Lawton with outreach to Duncan and Altus, Catholic Charities moved its base of operations to a new location in July. Located at 1930 N.W. Ferris Ave., this location will enable staff to be close to the community it serves. The staff (pictured above) at Archbishop Paul Coakley blesses the new Lawton Catholic Charities office the Lawton office include Pauline Harris, Lorraine Truitt and Brenda Toehay, shown on Aug. 18. here with Damon Britton, associate director for Children and Family Services. Ministry Leads the Way A model for parish healing past year, St. Peter Church in ministries, developed at St. Peter Woodward pioneered a model Church in Woodward in cooperation for how parishes can utilize health with Catholic Charities, is drawing professionals as well as non- national attention and will be professionals in embracing the heal- featured as an example of “Best ing ministry,” said Mary Diane Practices” in the 2012 Catholic Steltenkamp, director of Faith Charities USA Parish Social Community Nursing at Catholic Ministry calendar. Charities in Oklahoma City. In 1981, the United States The St. Peter Parish nursing Conference of Catholic Bishops team, now comprising nine people, wrote a document titled Health and has embraced various programs ad- Health Care, which stated, “Health dressing the physical and spiritual in the Christian perspective means health of the community. wholeness — not only physical and Steltenkamp said the model has emotional but also spiritual and become so popular that several other social. Health has to do with more parishes are developing similar than strictly medical concerns. The programs. restoration of health and the mainte- Steltenkamp, who directs Faith nance of good health are not solely Community Nurse training across the responsibility of doctors, nurses the state of Oklahoma, will present and other medical professionals. We aspects of the St. Peter model during all bear a responsibility in this the Catholic Charities USA Annual regard, both as individuals and as Gathering in Fort Worth this month. members of large social and religious For more information about the institutions.” Catholic Charities Faith Community In the spirit of Health and Nursing training program, contact Health Care, Catholic Charities Steltenkamp at (405) 523-3006 or works with parishes to develop holis- mdsteltenkamp@catholiccharities- tic healing ministries. “During the ok.org. September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 11 A Celebration Of The Love, Life of Father Rother Pilgrims Mark Anniversary

By María de Lourdes Ruiz Scaperlanda For the Sooner Catholic “Martyrs are blood witnesses of God’s inexhaustible love for his people.” (Father Henri Nouwen in “Love in a Fearful Land: A Guatemala Story”) This truth is visibly and tangibly evident in the parish community of Santiago Apostol in Santiago Atitlán, Guatemala, where Okarche native and Servant of God Father Stanley Francis Rother is more than just remembered. Padre Apla’s, (Francis in Tz’utujil) still witnesses the presence and power of God to His people 30 years after his death. Martyred on July 28, 1981, Stanley Rother has been declared by the Universal Church as a Servant of God — which in time could make him the first male saint born in the United States. But the people of Santiago Atitlán are not waiting for an official declaration. They already affirm The shrine to Servant of God Father Stanley Rother in the room he was killed in inside the rectory at Santiago Atitlán. Photo by Apla’s a saint, their saint, and they Father Stephen Bird come to him daily asking for his help and intercession. the lake with Father Rother cele- loved, prayed with and cared for added, “I want to encourage you to “He was a courageous mission- brating Mass, along with the words them during the last 13 years of his continue your own public and private ary, who in spite of the violence that proclaimed by Jesus: “No hay amor life, is still their shepherd now. devotion to Padre Apla’s. Come here surrounded him, did not leave his mas grande el que da la vida por sus frequently before the enshrined “Father Stanley Rother, Padre flock. He is a great example for me, amigos.” — There is no greater love heart of Padre Apla’s and continue to Apla’s, came from Oklahoma to someone who gave his life for the than this: to lay down one’s life for seek his help.” Santiago Atitlán because he loved People of God,” says Sister Ambrosia, one’s friends. God. Because Padre Apla’s loved For St. John the Baptist parish- a member of the Hermanas 30th Anniversary God, he loved each one of you,” ioner Tom Morris, “It was celebrating Misioneras de la Eucaristía, Commemoration remarked Archbishop Beltran to the Masses at this crowded 400-year-old Missionary Sisters of the Eucharist, filled-to-capacity church at the 30th church in Guatemala that Padre who remembers and survived the This July, 38 pilgrims from Anniversary Mass. “Because Padre Apla’s’ sainthood was made clear to years of violent social unrest in Oklahoma and Arkansas, including Apla’s loved you, he wanted to share me,” he explained. “It was in the eyes Guatemala. “I can’t tell you how Archbishop Paul S. Coakley, the Good News of Jesus with all of of the people, in their singing, in much I admire him. He could have Archbishop Emeritus Eusebius J. you. He proclaimed God’s love and their hunger for the Eucharist, and returned to his country, but instead Beltran, St. Gregory’s Abbot mercy. He wanted you to know how in the parish of Santiago’s five voca- remained with his people here. He Lawrence Stasyszen, OSB, Subiaco’s much God loves you and how you and tions to the seminary. My wife and I represents Jesus, who gave His life Abbot Jerome Kodell, OSB, and your children could have everlasting recently attended a Papal Mass at for all of us. All of Guatemala already Little Rock Bishop Anthony Taylor, life in heaven. Because of this St. Peter’s and we felt a greater knows that he is a saint.” journeyed to Guatemala to commem- proclamation and adherence to our presence of our Lord in the people of It is both appropriate and telling orate the 30th anniversary of the Catholic faith, Padre Apla’s was the Church at Santiago Atitlán than that Father Rother’s heart rests for- death of Father Stanley F. Rother. brutally attacked and killed here in we did at the Vatican.” ever with the people closest to his One of the first things instantly the parish house.” heart, on a side altar of the big colo- obvious to visitors of the Santiago “The people treasure that he nial church built by Franciscans in Atitlán community is that the man Reminding the community of was, and is, one of them,” noted 1540. A large photo banner hanging that the Tz’utujil Mayan people Father Rother’s official cause for Sister María Victoria, who worked on the wall above shows a vista of remember as Apla’s, who taught, canonization, Archbishop Beltran Continued on Page 12 12 Sooner Catholic ● September 11, 2011 30 Years Later Continued from Page 11 S. Coakley.“He captured my attention for five years at the parish of because he was an alumnus of the Santiago Atitlán. “Apla’s shared same seminary I was attending, everything with the Tz’utujil. In spite Mount St. Mary in Emmitsburg, Md.” of his different background, he Having the opportunity to cele- embraced our culture and the poor brate Mass 30 years later at Father and simple people. He ate with the Rother’s parish church in Santiago people and rode out in the trucks to Atitlán “was a powerful experience,” work the fields with them. He shared Archbishop Coakley added. “I was everything with them,” added Sister deeply moved by the vibrancy of the María Victoria, whose community — parish, their devotion to the Euch- the Missionary Sisters of the arist, and their continuing veneration Eucharist — was the first community of Father Rother, whom they call of women in Guatemala founded to Padre Apla’s. Few of the people filling take in indigenous vocations, even that crowded parish church would those without any schooling. The have known him personally, but his community now has a mission serv- witness as a loving pastor who gave ing in Houston, Texas. his life for his people has certainly not Father Michael Chapman, who been forgotten! He is beloved and A large banner of Father Rother hangs outside of the church during the has visited Santiago Atitlán three that is very evident.” parish festival. Photos by Father Stephen Bird Experiencing the Church of times in the past 30 years, said that defining moment for her, Carol Shean Guatemala being one of the large group of priests said she traveled to Guatemala and bishops filling up the altar at the As part of the week-long pilgrim- already familiar with Father Rother, 30th anniversary Mass allowed him age, the Oklahoma and Arkansas through a friend from her years living to observe “a vibrant community, peregrinos visited other important in Woodward, who is a relative of alive with the faith. What a joy that sites for the Church of Guatemala, Rother. “I wanted to come and see was!” including the historical city of with my own eyes what it was all He also enjoyed seeing Father Antigua; the parish and ministries of about,” said Shean, now a resident of Thomas McSherry recognized and San Lucas Tolimán; the Hospitalito San Diego, Calif. “Meeting the people, acknowledged both at Santiago and Atitlán, a community hospital with observing what their life is like, and Cerro de Oro. “As the successor of roots and connections to the seeing the joy and hope that they live, ‘Father Apla’s,’ he carried the pastoral Oklahoma mission; the convent of it truly blows me away. They are a burden with the same self-effacing the Hermanas Misioneras de la witness of faith through their living, dedication to the Tz’utujil people and Eucaristía, Missionary Sisters of the loving and giving.” their faith,” noted Father Chapman. Eucharist; and the parish at Cerro de Beth Hathaway of Boise City Oro, a small church five miles from “I learned about Father Stanley agreed. “I could not even imagine the Santiago also served by Father Rother’s death 30 years ago as a sem- impact that the Guatemalan people Rother and the Oklahoma mission. inarian and have remained inspired would have on me,” she paused. “It by his witness,” said Archbishop Paul Describing this pilgrimage as a was so moving to celebrate Mass with them, to see their faces and Former U.S. ambassador to experience their piety. It is clear we Guatemala, Stephen McFarland, don’t need grand programs to pass on talks at the Anniversary Mass for the faith of God!” Father Rother July 28. “It is amazing to me how God genius or have extraordinary skills to works with ordinary people to make a difference in people’s lives.” perform extraordinary works,” said One aspect that surprised Father Dianne Frazier of St. Patrick’s Timothy Luschen on his first Church in OKC. “Who would ever Guatemala visit was the amount of think that a priest from Okarche, development in the town of Santiago. Oklahoma, would make such an But the biggest surprise was the impression on so many people all over poverty of the people. “So many the world!” remarked Frazier about things we take for granted … the her first time experiencing Santiago streets, the electricity, the water. The Atitlán. “No matter who we are, discomforts we felt on our pilgrimage where we were raised, we can make a are the discomforts they live with difference, especially if we have faith every day.” in God and in ourselves. Father Although it is not an easy trip, Stanley Rother is truly an inspiration Continued on Page 15 Archbishop Beltran says a prayer in the rectory in Santiago Atitlán. for all of us. We don’t have to be a September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 13 Adversity Transformed Into Faith Adventure By María de Lourdes Ruiz “That set the tone for the whole Scaperlanda pilgrimage,” explained Little Rock’s For the Sooner Catholic Bishop, Anthony B. Taylor. “The Lord Pilgrims leave home intention- was clearly in control throughout, ally, with an expectation that the not us … since we were pilgrims … physical journey will fuel the spirit- the journey was really what it was ual quest. Pilgrims, as opposed to all about, not any particular human tourists, desire to approach their timetable or earthly destination. And journey in a spirit of poverty and there were wonderful adversities dependence, like refugees, conscious- almost every day!” Bishop Taylor, ly choosing at every phase of the formerly a priest with the Oklahoma journey to humbly present them- City Archdiocese, was the Episcopal selves and their needs to the delegate for Father Rother’s cause of Lord, acknowledging their utter de- canonization. pendence on God. Traveling the highlands and the In the pilgrimage to Guatemala southern shores of beautiful Lake for the 30th anniversary of Father Atitlán offered plenty of opportuni- Stanley Rother, it was clear that God ties for the group to experience and was very busy, often using the adver- open itself to transformation. sities and challenges that the group Standing in heavy rains waiting encountered to remind us that His for a tardy ride. Mudslides that plan was more meaningful, brilliant, diverted and canceled travel. better designed, than any pre-set Washed-out roads. Suspended foot- itinerary, no matter how well bridges. Delayed schedules. Illness. thought out! Standing on the back of pickup For the Arkansas pilgrims, trucks for rides. the difficulties began immediately: Sister Kathy Olsen, a member mechanical airplane issues, delayed of the Archdiocesan canonization and postponed flights, and even an committee, jokes that pilgrimage emergency landing in Houston, with director Carol Davito “could be a sirens and firemen, significant really terrific used car salesman!” “When Carol suggested that we enough to make CNN and local The resting place of Father Stanley Rother’s heart is a shrine in the church wear good walking shoes for the next evening news. at Santiago Atitlan, which is a pilgrimage site for thousands each year. day’s journey because we’d have to walk a little ways due to a mudslide, “This was an adventure with a I never could have imagined that capital A!” laughed Sister Kathy would translate into walking across about her first trip to Santiago a swaying suspension bridge over a Atitlán. “No sickness, broken planes, deep gorge that could only support mudslides or other obstacles could five people at a time! Or that the keep us from experiencing the many transportation waiting us on the blessings,” added Maria Peña of other side were not buses, but rather Little Rock. three pickup trucks where we stood “Bishop Taylor has taught often hanging on to railings. And did I about Father Rother and the great mention that one of the trucks ran example that he is for us all, his out of gas on our way to the convent Christ-like attitude,” Peña added. we were visiting?!” “But being surrounded at Mass by “It was an adventure, to say the the people from all the different least,” agreed Jean Nashert, noting towns who had come there to cele- that a fellow pilgrim had already brate his life, and the way they pointed out the similarities between welcomed us, it was way more than the group’s adventures and the I expected.” Having the Mass read- reality TV series “Survivor.” ings proclaimed in Tz’utujil “was a The pilgrimage group at the convent, in which they had to walk a rope “I never thought I’d be walking beautiful reminder that we are bridge over a large gorge to get to. Photos by Father Stephen Bird on a swaying bridge!” Continued on Page 15 14 Sooner Catholic ● September 11, 2011 Faith Unites Okarche, Santiago To Nazareth By María de Lourdes Ruiz Scaperlanda For the Sooner Catholic Joy, awe, sorrow, inspiration, respect, sadness and admiration. A myriad of emotions rushed over me on my first trip to Santiago Atitlán. As I continue to try to verbalize experiencing firsthand Father Stanley Rother’s community in Guatemala, I can’t help paraphrasing the famous gospel question about Jesus: Can anything good come from Okarche, Oklahoma? Why do we always think that God’s presence will be found in the spectacular, when over and over we find God in the simplest things, the common events, and the regular, ordinary people in our lives? This man whose intercession we seek, this man who died in love for his brothers and sisters in Guatemala, this man who is already venerated in Santiago Atitlán as martyr for his Tz’tujil brothers and sisters, was an average farm boy from an unre- markable, ordinary small town, very much like Jesus’ Nazareth. This was also my first trip to Guatemala, and The launch to Santiago Atitlán. Photo by Father Stephen Bird there was much about it that surprised me. Atitlán was the first parish founded in the diocese life for one’s friend. This is what the community of The natural beauty mesmerized. Rugged lus- of Sololá in 1540. It is both impressive and signifi- Santiago Atitlán recalls when they think of cious mountains, towering volcanoes wrapped in cant that the Church of Oklahoma has been a part Stanley Rother. Thirty years after his death, Apla’s fast-moving clouds, and the majestic Lake Atitlán of this remote and isolated community’s history for is not only remembered, he is admired, respected, framed the region of Sololá, where Santiago Atitlán 60 years. and asked regularly for his heavenly intercession. is located. Breathtaking! Our pilgrim group from Oklahoma and The Tz’utujil people in Santiago Atitlán No one in our group of pilgrims could stop smil- Arkansas was graced with the opportunity to cele- already recognize that Stanley Rother is a saint. ing on the one-hour boat ride between the hotel in brate Mass with the parish community of Santiago They made that clear to me. They already come to Panajachel to the village of Santiago on the other Atitlán twice during our week-long pilgrimage: for him daily, regularly, with their needs and their side of Lake Atitlán. Riding often in silenced awe at the feast of their patron saint, St. James, and for prayers, just as they did when he was their pastor the panorama surrounding us, my heart intuitively the 30th anniversary Mass commemorating and for 13 years. His death, like his life, is one more sang, “Oh Lord, my God, how wondrous are your remembering the death of Father Rother. outward sign of his deep and abiding holy love for works!” Appropriately decorated that week in red, the them. I must confess that before this trip, my aca- color of royalty and martyrs, the large church At the 30th anniversary Mass, I remember demic knowledge of the country of Guatemala did smelled of candles, incense and pine needles, which smiling at a Tz’utujil woman in her 60s standing not include the fact that there are 22 distinct were ceremoniously spread on the apse floor as a next to me. I was struck by the certainty that we Mayan dialects spoken there. That over 60 percent sign of reverence. would never see each other again. In culture, of the population is still 100 pecent Mayan. Or that During Mass I kept thinking about the many experience and education, we have little to nothing the country’s geography is made up of 33 volcanoes! lay missionary catechists who were killed during in common with one another. We didn’t even speak Basically, no matter what the town, we were always the bloody and violent period that Father Rother the same primary language. Yet I had tears in my surrounded by two or three volcanoes, some even served as pastor of Santiago — some surely related eyes as the two of us stood together in the celebra- making their presence known by spitting out to the people who were there worshiping with us. tion of our faith, how we sang the very appropriate smoke. So it touched my heart that the one man they hymn, “el Pescador de hombres,” and how we When Pope John XXIII requested in the 1960s honor as a community, the one they hold with great raised hands praying the Our Father in Spanish that a mission be established in the remote village pride and affection, is the tall, bearded, quiet man together. of Santiago, no resident priest had been minister- from Oklahoma they call Apla’s. In our Catholic faith, and through the inter- ing to the indigenous community there for 80 years. They remember, honor and pay tribute to cession and example of Servant of God Father But the Catholic Church has had a presence in that Stanley Rother, because, much like God’s show of Stanley Francis Apla’s Rother, we were and are area for 470 years, that’s almost 80 years before the love for each of us through the mystery of the already sisters in Christ. pilgrims arrived at Plymouth Rock. Touring the incarnation, the boy from Okarche became one of Padre Apla’s, please pray for us now and for- city of Antigua, with its Spanish Baroque architec- them, one with them in their suffering. He was the ever. Amen. ture and spectacular ruins of colonial churches and one who personified the incarnation for them. He Scaperlanda is a journalist and author living convents, we were constantly reminded of the fact loved them so much that he was prepared and will- in Norman, and a member of St. Mark the that the Catholic roots run deep here. ing to die with them. Evangelist Church. For information on her The parish church of Santiago (St. James) There is no greater love than to give up one’s published work, visit www.mymaria.net. September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 15 Adventure Continued from Page 13 ingness, openness, and quite often a united in the Word of God, by the huge sense of humor. When an entire Eucharist, by our Catholic faith.” group attempts this sort of attitude, The worshipping experience the blessings of the journey simply with the Tz’utujil people gifted Sister multiply. Kathy with the consciousness that “I For Bishop Taylor, the take for granted the frequency and challenges, obstacles, adversities and availability of the Eucharist.” Seeing difficulties were nothing but wonder- the community’s willingness to ful. “Wonderful, because no one got travel, then stand there for hours in upset,” noted Bishop Taylor. “We order to celebrate Mass was very laughed when we could, which was moving. “The people are so expres- often, and otherwise just took every- sive in their faith, they have such thing in stride, confident that all of reverence and devotion. When I see this was one way or another God’s that kind of faith, I realize there’s a gift to us. We really could feel Jesus’ lot of hope for the Church!” presence, tangibly, every step of the Difficult things always happen, way.” especially if a journey is meant to be María de Lourdes Ruiz a true spiritual quest. But it is the Scaperlanda is the author of “The pilgrims’ attitude that can either Journey: A Guide for the Modern ruin or bless a journey. The pilgrim Pilgrim.” (Loyola Press, 2004). See: Native Tz’utujil bringing gifts up at Mass in Santiago Atitlán. Photo by Father heart looks to the journey with will- mymaria.net. Stephen Bird. For more photos, visit tinyurl.com/44nxkz6. 30 Years Later Continued from Page 12 cially profound experience, Jean community of Cerro de Oro. once you get a glimpse of it, there’s no Father Luschen noted that this won’t observed. “You felt it when you Archbishop Beltran served as Bishop denying that it’s a reflection of the stop him from going back. walked in … They got it! That’s the of Tulsa in 1981 when Father Rother Great Sacrifice of Jesus.” “It is impossible not to be struck joy and faith I wish for all of us.” was killed. “He knew the dangers Servant of God Father Stanley by Father Rother’s lasting presence Dee and John Ward, parishioners that existed here at that time and Rother is important not only for the both at the Masses, and in the room of St. Joseph’s in Norman, celebrated was greatly concerned about the Church in Guatemala and the where he was killed — now a Blessed their 25th anniversary during the safety and security of the people. Church in Oklahoma, but for every- Sacrament chapel,” acknowledged pilgrimage in Guatemala. “The joy I Despite threats and danger, he one, emphasized Archbishop Coakley. Father Luschen. “When I entered the witnessed becomes more wonderful returned and resumed his great “We need the witness of holy men room I felt a sense of pride that he each day that I think about it,” Dee priestly ministry to you … It is very and women who remind us that we was one of our own,” he paused, “but described, noting that she’d like to clear that Padre Apla’s died for you are all called to holiness and that also the sadness. Father Rother was a return leading a youth group or a and for the faith.” holy men and women come from Catholic priest who loved his people mission trip. “So many people “I still remember opening the ordinary places like Okarche, so much that he died for them … As a traveled to Santiago by foot from newspaper one morning 30 years Oklahoma,” Archbishop Coakley said. priest, I hope and pray that I would throughout the region that the ago,” Msgr. Ed Weisenburger recalled. “His devotion to his parishioners, be strengthened to be more generous church was packed … this experience “I was in Lawton, home from the even to the point of laying down his of giving of myself in serving the is so foreign to me. It was over- seminary for the summer and work- life, shows how all priests are called people of God.” whelming at times to witness their ing a summer job. I read an article on to make Christ present daily in their On his second visit to Santiago, faith effort, and now I’m in awe.” the murder of an Oklahoma priest in lives and ministry.” Jack Nashert wanted his wife, Jean, “It was so uplifting,” agreed John Guatemala. Later that day at daily to see with her own eyes what he Ward, “a great moving experience. It Mass, Father Jim Stafford spoke very “In truth, his example of the total experienced 10 years ago. “It is a good was beautiful to see the love that the movingly of Father Rother and the gift, the perfect gift given in love, is way of recharging my battery spiritu- people of Santiago have for Father tremendous sacrifice he had made the goal of every Christian,” Msgr. ally,” he smiled. Rother, especially the children, who with his life. The truth and power of Weisenburger agreed. “For that For Jean the experience “was never even knew him. It blew me that story has never waned … and reason, it is my hope that he will be everything I hoped it would be. It was away.” his example continues to inspire me.” found worthy by the Church for uni- wonderful.” The biggest impression May he be proclaimed by the Being at the 30th anniversary, versal veneration. In his life, his love, for her, she emphasized, “were the Universal Church as “celebrating his sacrifice with the and his sacrifice, each of us can get a children … so happy, so full of joy, like Martyr and Saint… community he loved so greatly in little better glimpse of the perfect when they grabbed the Archbishop’s “Just before (Stanley Rother) had Santiago, gave me a rare glimpse into love and perfect sacrifice of Jesus.” hands as he processed into Mass!” returned from Oklahoma to Guate- the profound love that he held for his Scaperlanda is a journalist and Celebrating Mass with so many mala for the last time, he told me how people and their profound love for author living in Norman, and a priests, bishops and abbots was very much he desired to come back,” him,” Msgr. Weisenburger declared. member of St. Mark the Evangelist special, but experiencing the faith of Archbishop Eusebius J. Beltran “It’s only in the context of that Gospel Parish. For information on her the Tz’utujil together was an espe- remembered in a message for the that his sacrifice makes sense. But published work: www.mymaria.net. 16 Sooner Catholic September 11, 2011 Stewardship: We Are Called By God’s Grace

How does God alter you, we experience in our lives enable us all the work is done? produce vitality and vibrancy that transform you, make your life more to carry the Stewardship message Stewardship of God’s Grace can breathe new life, a new spirit fulfilling? How does God help you to our sisters and brothers in the begins with patience, love and into the parish. For help with deepen your understanding of great family we call the Catholic education. We must encourage all developing a plan of action or yourself, your loved ones and your Church. Catholics to live stewardship as a establishing a Stewardship community? What are the gifts Stewardship is the mission of way of life. Stewardship, when lived Committee at your parish, call the you possess that allow God to be the Church. We do not teach it; we and practiced, can do wonderful Archdiocesan Office of Stewardship actively present in the world must live it. A far more basic things for a parish. It can and Development at (405) 721-4115. through you? Understanding understanding of Stewardship is Christian stewardship helps us rooted in our awareness of God, of understand these fundamental how God is involved in our lives, questions. “Stewards of God’s and how we see ourselves as The Catholic Foundation Grace” is from the New Testament’s disciples of Jesus in today’s world. First Letter of Peter. Christian The passages from the gospel of stewards understand that they are Luke are germane to the concept CORNERSTONE entrusted with the mysteries of and theology of stewardship. God’s grace in order to have Sixteen of Jesus’ 38 parables are abundant life for themselves, their concerned with stewardship. So, if Continuing Education families, their communities, and a we are to “hear His words” and “put world hungry for God’s peace. them to practice,” then and only Course Offered Christian stewardship inspires us then can we lay a solid foundation The Catholic Foundation is presenting a to make better choices, rethink our of Christian discipleship. priorities and become the person Continuing Education Program that will kick off We are reminded of the story of God created us to be. this fall with an Estate Planning 2011 Course from the “Little Red Hen.” Remember, Stewardship is the management the little red hen planted the seed, 8 a.m. until noon on Nov. 18, 2011, to be held at the of all of life’s resources given by harvested the crop, ground the Catholic Pastoral Conference Center. Our present- God to each of His children. Our wheat and baked the bread. ing sponsor is Bank of Oklahoma. We are excited management of these gifts calls us Throughout the story she asks for that Professor Jeffrey Pennell, the Richard H. to be accountable and responsible help from the pig, the cow and the for their use. You are a steward. Clark Professor of Law at Emory University horse. No one was willing to help School of Law in Atlanta, Ga., will present the Your fellow parishioners are her in her mission until the very course. Professor Pennell is a much sought-after stewards! Actually all God’s people end when the wonderful aroma of are stewards whether they the freshly baked bread permeated trust and estate planning speaker who makes acknowledge it or not. Instead of the farm yard, then suddenly every- presentations throughout the United States every asking “Will I be a Steward?”, one was anxious to participate in year. Topics include Planning Proximate to Death; we must ask, “What kind of steward eating the bread. The little red hen Marital Deduction Planning in Uncertain Times; will I be?” cherished her gift of seed, she Minimizing the Surviving Spouse’s Elective Share; The Lord has called His people planted, tended it and transformed and Ethics & Malpractice Issues. This course has to be faithful and wise stewards. the simple gift into something We answer His call when we grow wonderful and delicious that could been approved by the Mandatory Continuing together as stewards of God’s be enjoyed by all. She treated her Legal Education Commission of Oklahoma for a Grace. gift in a responsible and account- maximum of 4.00 credit hours, of which 1.00 hour How to become Stewards able manner. Not only that, she was is credit covering professional responsibility, legal of God’s Grace willing to share her gift in justice ethics, or legal malpractice prevention. This course We are called and sent to and love with others. We can just has been approved by the Certified Financial proclaim the coming of the reign of hear the Lord saying to the little Planners Board for 4.00 credit hours of Continuing red hen, “Well done, good and faith- God. This call and mission implies a Education. need for change and is a lifelong ful steward.” To register for this course, visit our website at process. Jesus’ call is urgent. He If the story of the little red hen does not tell us to follow Him at described our faith life, where www.cfook.org, or for more information, contact: some time in the future but here would we fit? Are we like the little For more information on Planned Giving, contact: and now — at this moment, in red hen? Have we used the Lord’s these circumstances. gifts in a responsible and account- The Catholic Foundation of Oklahoma, Inc. Stewardship is a part of able manner and shared them in P.O. Box 32180, Oklahoma City, OK 73123 that interior change of heart love and justice with others, or are (405)721-4115 „ www.cfook.org „ [email protected] (conversion). When we decide to we like the barnyard animals who Please Remember the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City in Your Estate Plans become good stewards, the changes only want to come to the table when September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 17 Students Receive Foundation Scholarships The Catholic Foundation has presented over $90,000 in college scholarships for the upcoming school year to 74 students in the Archdiocese. Two new recipients from Ardmore’s St. Mary Church include Gavin Anderson and Melissa Dominguez. Gavin plans to attend Thomas Moore College of Liberal Arts in Merrimack, N.H., with an emphasis in business. Gavin has been home schooled through his high school years. Melissa will attend the University of Oklahoma and will seek a physician’s assistant degree. She was co-valedictorian at Ardmore High and very involved both in the church and the community. While all Catholic Foundation Scholarships are awarded regardless of the college Scholarship awards are presented to Gavin or university chosen by the applicant, students Anderson and Melissa Dominguez by Father attending a Catholic university receive triple the Adriana Meave from St. Catherine of Siena Church Thomas Dowdell and CFO board member Larry customary Catholic Foundation award of $1,000. in Pauls Valley receives her Catholic Foundation Neubauer. Additionally, St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee Scholarship Award from Father Michael Vaught. matches the Catholic Foundation Scholarships academic excellence and parish involvement. office or by downloading from the Catholic for students attending this Catholic institution. Scholarship applications for the 2012-13 school Foundation website at www.cfook.org after Jan. 1, Scholarships are awarded based on family need, year will be available from the Catholic Foundation 2012. Briefs

presentation of Little Suite in A Major, a work for Help Available for School Sets Fun Run solo classical guitar he composed this year and is Troubled Marriages OKLAHOMA CITY — Villa Teresa Catholic recorded for CD distribution. The CD will be avail- School is hosting its first ever Fun Run Saturday, able for purchase as will sheet music of other music the guitarist has written. Fresonke earned his Retrouvaille is a program designed to provide Sept. 17. The event will begin at 8 a.m. at the master’s degree at the University of Missouri, help and support to married couples who are under- school, 1216 Classen Drive. The event provides the Kansas City Conservatory of Music, studied with going difficulties in their relationship, for those who opportunity for family and community involvement guitar master Gerald Klickstein and interna- are hurting in brokenness and loneliness. It has to promote healthy choices. The mile run/walk can tionally famous guitarist Douglas Niedt. He also proven helpful to couples who are separated or involve children as well as adults (free). The 5K teaches at Oklahoma City University’s Wanda L. divorced. Although Retrouvaille is Catholic in ori- attracts the more serious runner and begins at 9 Bass School of Music and offers guitar classes gin, couples from all or no faith traditions are a.m. There is online registration available at through his Learn Guitar Correctly program. welcome to attend. The next program begins on the http://www.vtspto.com. There is a $25 registration Acrylic paintings by Theresa Hurt will be on weekend of Sept. 23-25, 2011. For further informa- fee and a commemorative shirt. To receive the shirt, display to be viewed during the concert breaks. tion, call (918) 695-7010 or go online to you will need to register before the day of the event. Theresa first learned about color at the age www.helpourmarriage.com Lots of fun activities will be part of the morning. of 14 while helping at the paint store her father All inquiries are confidential. Come join us for an exciting and encouraging way to be healthy. All proceeds help the educational managed. program of the school. Sponsorships are tax- In 1974 she started working at Pirates Alley deductible. Picture Frames and was introduced to all types of Building Needed for art and learned even more about color. Free Health Clinic For more information, contact Bob Metivier at Parish to Host St. Francis, (405) 823-0864, Michael Fresonke at EDMOND — The Good Samaritan Health (405) 408-2123, or Theresa Hurt at (405) 826-2727. Clinic of Edmond, a 501(c)(3) corporation, needs to Celebration of the Arts move to a different rental building to medically Parish Offers First serve Edmond clients with no health insurance. A OKLAHOMA CITY — Michael Fresonke, MA, medical office is a good model for our needs. As a will present Joyful Music, a guitar concert, along Friday Adoration minimum we require a 2,000-square-foot building with a display of contemporary art by Theresa Hurt with the possibility for an office, reception desk, two on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 6:30 p.m. in the Parish Hall NORMAN — First Friday Adoration at St. exam rooms, nurse station, storage room, utilities of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 1901 NW Mark the Evangelist on Oct. 7 and each of the first and parking. We need Saturday mornings for about 18th. The performance will feature works for solo Fridays of the year. The Blessed Sacrament will be four hours and need short-term access on some classical guitar composed by celebrated musicians exposed from 9 a.m. to noon and will be followed by evenings to process client charts. Since 2009, the Heitor Villa-Lobos, Matteo Carcassi, Francisco Mass. St. Mark is located at 3939 W. Tecumseh clinic has had 1,900 visits. Contact President Lee Tarrega and Carlo Domenici. Road. We invite you to join us in praying for our Hunt at 348-9461 or [email protected]. A highlight of the concert will be Fresonke’s country. 18 Sooner Catholic ● September 11, 2011 Youth Wins International Free Throw Contest By Jodi Davis free throw competitions for the state for Elk City Daily News 21 years, and Blake is the first kid to ELK CITY — The Knights of win the International title. Columbus honored Blake Goss, 12, of The Supreme Headquarters of the Canute as winner of the International Knights of Columbus in New Haven, Free Throw Competition. Blake hit 25- Conn., is where the numbers from of-25 shots at the state level. around the world were tallied. In total, “He shot at a 95 percent average Goss made 62-of-65 free throws to win this year,” said Bob Burkitt, treasurer the competition. Burkitt said Blake’s for the Knights of Columbus Council little brother, Ty, is going to be just as 3101. “He hit the rim only one time good. during his warm-up,” said Burkitt. “He’s only 9, but he will be able to “Every other time it was nothing but compete next year,” Burkitt said. “He Blake Goss was presented a trophy for winning the International Free Throw net.” was allowed to shoot, but not compete Contest sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Pictured are Grand Knight The state competition was held at this year since he doesn’t meet the age Kevin Merz, Kent Goss, Danna Goss, Ty Goss, Blake Goss, State Deputy Dan St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee. requirement, but if he had, he would Hogan, Bob Burkitt and District Deputy Michael Harris. Photo by Jodi Davis, Burkitt has been heading up the have won the 10-year-old division.” Elk City Daily News Catholic Scouts Earn Rank of Eagle August 14 Three Troop 21 Scouts received Adam Dorety, 18, received his Ethan Scott, 20, received his their Eagle Rank in an Eagle Court Eagle Scout in February, 2011. For Eagle Scout in June, 2009. For his of Honor held on Aug. 14. his project, he built four paintball project, he designed and built four Thomas Bainbridge, 18, targets and benches for the outdoor picnic tables for the received his Eagle Scout in June, Muscular Dystrophy Kids Camp. Edmond Historical Society and Mu- 2011. For his project, he rehabili- Adam is a lifetime member of St. seum. Ethan is a lifetime member of tated two apartments for a local John the Baptist. He is a 2011 St. John the Baptist. He is a 2009 women’s shelter. Tom is a 10-year graduate of Edmond Memorial graduate of Edmond Memorial High member of Epiphany of the Lord. He High School and is attending the School and is a junior at Oklahoma is a 2011 graduate of Putnam City University of Central Oklahoma State University pursuing a double North High School and is attending this fall with plans to major in major in mechanical and aerospace Oklahoma State University this civil engineering. Adam is the son of engineering. Ethan is the son of fall, majoring in zoology. Tom is the son of Russell David and Diana Dorety of Edmond. Steve and Laura Scott of Edmond. and Nancy Bainbridge of Oklahoma City. SGU Offers Dance Academy Did You Know! The Worldwide Marriage That Runs Every Saturday Encounter Movement began as a way of improving SHAWNEE — The St. current students and faculty Bucko said the academy Gregory’s University Dance of the SGU Dance Program. is centered on dance tech- communication between Academy, a program initiated Dana Bucko, co-director of nique and may serve as a husbands and wives. But as by the SGU Dance Depart- the SGU Dance Academy, supplement to current dance insights grew, it became ap- ment, is accepting enrollment says the program benefits classes or as the primary parent that the techniques for the new academic year. both teacher and student. dance class. Tuition is $35 used in the sessions could The academy is slated to run “It’s a win-win situation,” a month and is due on the on Saturdays beginning Bucko said. “Those who teach first Saturday of each month. benefit anyone whose vocation involves close, Sept. 10. Classes will not be the classes apply their dance There is also a $20 non- caring communication with others. It is held during school breaks. knowledge and gain much- refundable registration fee. considered the first marriage enrichment Enrollment is open to needed experience as in- Bucko said there are no re- program and has been updated on a continual students age 3 and up. structors. I think the aca- cital costume or competition basis to reflect the current marriage environ- Various levels of ballet, tap demy students relate well fees. For more information on and jazz will be taught, with such youthful teachers, the SGU Dance Academy or ment. depending on the age group. and, in turn, develop a to register, call (405) 878- For more information, contact Rick and Bev Classes will be taught by real appreciation for dance.” 5178. Feller at (405) 376-4098 or [email protected]. September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 19 Saint Ann Retirement Center Reopens St. Joachim Chapel By Richard Amend For the Sooner Catholic Saint Ann Retirement Center was blessed to have Archbishop Paul Coakley, along with Father Price Grimes, Father Louis Lamb, Father Joe Vas, Father Gerard MacAulay and Father Elmer Schwarz present at the special Re- dedication Liturgy for Saint Joachim Chapel. This reopening of the enlarged chapel took place on Wednesday, Aug. 24 at 9:30 a.m. Many of the residents and family members were present to welcome Archbishop Coakley to our Retirement and Assisted Living Community. Following the Liturgy, a reception took place in the Grand Theater. For the past several months, Saint Ann’s has been celebrating Mass in the Grand Theater while construction took place. The wonderfully designed octagonal-shaped chapel was able to keep the same inspiring set- ting, but also is now able to accommodate up to 150 participants. We want to acknowledge our architect (TAParchitecture) John Ward, and (Nashert Constructors Inc.) Jack Nashert, for their expert workmanship throughtout the project. Saint Ann’s celebrates Mass daily at 9:30 a.m. in the St. Joachim Chapel with Father Price Grimes as the celebrant. There is also a 4 p.m. Saturday afternoon Liturgy, which is the vigil Mass for Sunday. In the words of Father Grimes, “We are delighted that Archbishop Beltran gave us the Archbishop Coakley blessing the chapel and the people. opportunity to have the best possible worship space here at Saint Ann’s and we also want to ing the project through to completion.” Retirement and Assisted Living Community, thank Archbishop Coakley for his support in see- For information about joining the Saint Ann contact Richard Amend at 721-0747.

Pope Asks Forgiveness For ‘Cradle Catholics’ Who Did Not Evangelize

Castel Gandolfo, Italy (CNA) — waiting for.” The Pope’s comments “new evangelization.” Schonborn of Vienna — who spoke of Pope Benedict XVI has asked forgive- were made at a Mass to conclude the The Pope based his brief intro- the need for complete renunciation of ness on behalf of generations of “cra- annual meeting of his “Schülerkreis” ductory comments upon the words of self required by radical Christian dis- dle Catholics” who have failed to or “Study Group.” the psalm of the day, Psalm 62, which cipleship. “Only by not conforming transmit the faith to others. The gathering has taken place describes the human soul that thirsts ourselves to this world, can we “We who have known God since every summer since 1977 and draws for God “like a dry and weary land.” recognize the will of God and make it we were young, must ask forgive- together those who defended their Pope Benedict said that believers the foundation of our lives,” he said. ness,” said Pope Benedict to a gather- doctoral theses in front of Pope should ask Christ — who is the living Pope Benedict’s academic career ing of his former students at the Benedict during his years teaching water — to send them “those who spanned 26 years and saw him teach papal summer residence of Castel theology at various universities in seek the living water elsewhere.” at universities in Bonn, Munster, Gandolfo, south of Rome, on Aug. 28. Germany. Just days after the success of Tubingen and Regensburg, prior to The Pope said an apology is due This year they were joined, for World Youth Day in Madrid, he also his appointment as Archbishop of because “we bring people so little of the first time, by those who have asked for particular prayers for Munich and Freising in 1977. Despite the light of His face, because from us more recently written their doctrinal young people. his increasing responsibilities, he has comes so little certainty that He theses on works of the Pope. To- The homily for the Mass was always attended the annual gather- exists, that He is there, and that He gether, the 40 invitees had spent delivered by another former student ing of his alumni, even after becom- is the Great One that everyone is four days exploring the issue of the of the Pope — Cardinal Christoph ing Pope in 2005. 20 Sooner Catholic ● September 11, 2011 Germany, Italy Set Example U.S. Should Follow A recent news the United States already warehouse country, and virtually none are held The radical stockpiling of embry- report chronicled more than 500,000 children in high- in cryogenic storage. Meanwhile, onic humans threatens to become a Chinese woman tech freezers filled with liquid nitro- countless American parents find nearly routine in our society, as such named Huang gen, children who are crystallized themselves caught in agonizing humans are reduced to little more Yijun. Sixty years byproducts of the in-vitro fertilization dilemmas about what to do with their than “stony objects” to be warehoused ago, her unborn process. Parents can choose to “re- offspring held in suspended anima- and manipulated — valuable pri- child died, but animate” their embryonic children by tion. marily for how they can serve the the pregnancy was thawing them, implanting them and The reason for this remarkable commercial interests or the personal never expelled from gestating them, but in other in- difference lies in the fact that the desires of others. The temptation to By Father Tad her body. Instead, stances, they end up being abandoned Germans enacted an Embryo dehumanize our own brothers and Pacholczyk, Ph.D. her baby’s body because their parents are now too old Protection Law in the 1990s that in- sisters is a perennial one, hearkening slowly began to cal- to carry a pregnancy, or are content cluded provisions outlawing the freez- back to that time in our country, cify inside her, becoming a crystal- with the number of their already-born ing of human embryos. Italy passed not so long ago, when slaves could lized, stone-like mass. Such stone children. similar legislation. Both countries be considered only three-fifths of a babies (known as lithopedions) are The multibillion-dollar business closely regulate in-vitro fertilization person for purposes of congressional extremely rare. When Mrs. Huang of infertility in the United States has treatments, and allow the production representation. Treating embryos as was 92 years old, the baby was been aptly described as a kind of of no more than three embryos at a zero-fifths of a person constitutes an discovered in her abdomen and “Wild West,” a lawless frontier where time, all of whom must be implanted even more deplorable violation of surgically removed. nearly anything goes, including the into their mother. Both countries for- human rights. This rare medical event prompts daily freezing and stockpiling of bid the production of extra embryos, The United States urgently needs us to consider a thought experiment. scores of humans who are still in experimentation on embryos, cloning embryo protection laws. Men and Imagine a drug that could be injected their embryonic stages. This practice and genetic testing of embryos. women of conscience must pressure into a child to crystallize him, but stands out as one of the great human- Not much reflection is needed to lawmakers to act. The putative and without killing him. The process itarian tragedies of our age. realize the serious injustice involved widely-touted “self-regulation” of fer- would turn the child into a static Few commentators, however, dare in forcefully “crystallizing” another tility clinics remains a dismal failure. mass for as many years as the to raise their voice against this in- human being. The freezing and thaw- Laws like those in Germany and Italy, parents wanted; another injection justice, which is proficiently marketed ing process itself subjects embryonic while they would not stop every injus- would reverse the process, and allow as a matter of personal reproductive humans to significant risk, and up to tice done to the least powerful among the child to wake up and continue choice and freedom. Because our 50 percent of embryos do not survive us, could go a long way toward assur- growing. Parents who decided they frozen children have no voice to speak the process. Stored embryos often ing that further forms of scientific needed a break from parenting could in their own defense, we slip into a end up being condemned to a kind of barbarism and human exploitation do bring their kids to the clinic and pay mind-set that ignores their inherent perpetual stasis, locked in time in not become commonplace. to store them as crystals for a limited dignity. the harsh wasteland of their liquid- Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D., period of time. Some children might But not every country has been so nitrogen orphanages. This injustice, earned his doctorate in neuroscience end up never being decrystallized, blind. Germany, which has a strong once it has been foisted upon human from Yale and did post-doctoral work with their stony bodies piling up in historical memory of the conse- embryos, is then used by others to at Harvard. He is a priest of the dio- warehouses. quences of ignoring human dignity, argue on behalf of an even more cese of Fall River, Mass., and serves Such a bizarre warehousing of declines to participate in these egregious offense against their as the Director of Education at The children is not as outlandish as it charades. Strikingly, human embryos dignity: the destructive strip-mining National Catholic Bioethics Center in might seem. In fact, fertility clinics in are not being frozen anywhere in the of embryos to acquire their stem cells. Philadelphia. See www.ncbcenter.org. Prayer Can Change The Way We Think, The Way We Live Albert Ellis, the founder of OUR BEHAVIORS, which are appropriate re- mite will probably mean something different to Rational Emotive Therapy, theo- sponses or inappropriate reactions to our feelings. an adult than a 2-year-old boy. The adult will ex- rizes our feelings, our behaviors Our consistent behaviors become… perience fear and will run, while the child may feel and ultimately our identities are curious, excited, and go toward it. based on our beliefs, our thinking, OUR HABITS, which develop and become… When our spouses or bosses criticize us, we the meaning we give to and how oftentimes feel hurt, belittled, unimportant, dis- we interpret what is said or what OUR PERSONALITY, which consists of re- counted, less than and inadequate, as well as angry happens. In summary, he says: peated performance of appropriate or inappropriate and frustrated. These feelings are, unfortunately, behaviors and habits and lead us to … pretty normal. However, they often lead to inappro- By Joe OUR BELIEFS are learned priate and hurtful reactions. Froehle from childhood and are the basis OUR DESTINY, which is established by our When experiencing these hurtful feelings, we for … accepted and oftentimes erroneous beliefs. might reflect on what we are thinking. Are we mis- interpreting the criticism as meaning, “I can’t make OUR FEELINGS, which are a reflection of our When something happens — it is our interpre- mistakes, I must be perfect,” “She’s right, I’m reality and lead us to… tation of what is happening that determines our a screw-up,” “I must be a bad mother,” “What’s the feelings and behaviors, etc. A lighted stick of dyna- Continued on Page 21 September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 21 Pope: Beautiful Art Can Lead To God

Castel Gandolfo, Italy (CNA/- selves as cultured. are born of faith and express faith.” presence of God’s truth.” EWTN News) — Artistic beauty can He observed that when people The Pope then illustrated his The Pope also described how lead the human heart to God, said stand before a sculpture or painting, point using his own personal ex- various artists themselves had ob- Pope Benedict XVI at his Aug. 31 read a few verses poetry or even perience. He recalled attending a served the same in their own art- general audience. listen to a song, everyone has “expe- performance of the works of J.S. work. He recalled how the 20th “Art is capable of making visible rienced deep within us an intimate Bach, conducted by Leonard century expressionist artist, Marc our need to go beyond what we see emotion, a sense of joy.” This sensa- Bernstein, in Munich. Chagall, once wrote “that for and it reveals our thirst for infinite tion, he said, is an interior recogni- “After the last piece of music, one centuries painters have dipped their beauty, for God,” the Pope said to tion that says that what is being of the Cantate, I felt, not by reason- paintbrush in that colored alphabet over 5,000 pilgrims at his summer seen or heard is “not only mere ing, but in my heart, that what I that is the Bible.” residence of Castel Gandolfo, 15 matter” but “something bigger, some- heard had conveyed to me truth, This is why forms, colors and miles to the south of Rome. thing that speaks, capable of touch- something of the truth of the great light that are “the fruits of the faith “Dear friends, I invite you to be ing the heart, of communicating a composer’s faith and this pressed me of the artist,” such as painting or open to beauty and to allow it to message, of elevating the soul,” and to praise and thank the Lord.” frescoes, can “direct our thoughts to move you to prayer and praise of the leading people, ultimately, to God. The Pope said he was so moved God and nourish in us the desire to Lord.” Pope Benedict also noted that by the experience that he turned to draw from the source of all beauty,” The Pope explained how this there are “artistic expressions that the Lutheran Bishop of Munich said the Pope. “path of beauty” can be “an open are true paths to God, the supreme sitting next to him and exclaimed, One dramatic example Pope door on the infinite” and is some- Beauty,” and that these works can “Hearing this we understand: It is Benedict offered was the life of 19th thing experienced by all people, not “help nurture our relationship with true, true faith is so strong, and the century French poet and playwright merely by those who regard them- Him in prayer. These are works that beauty of it irresistibly expresses the Paul Claudel. NY Times Editor Slammed For Column Washington, D.C. (CNA) — The New York your willingness to vote for him?” he asked. indifferent,” Donohue added. “It is quite another to Times is being strongly criticized for a column by “Personally, I might not disqualify him out of put bigots in such spots.” executive editor Bill Keller that scrutinized the hand; one out of three Americans believe we have In his column, Keller also incorrectly described religions of the GOP presidential candidates and had Visitors and, hey, who knows? But I would Republican hopeful Rick Santorum as belonging to likened the Catholic belief in the Eucharist to certainly want to ask a few questions. Like, where “fervid subsets of evangelical Christianity,” along belief in aliens. does he get his information? Does he talk to the with GOP candidates Rick Perry and Michele “Keller could have made his point about poli- aliens? Do they have an economic plan?” Bachmann. tics and religion without insulting Catholics,” Bill Keller later writes: “Every faith has its This, he wrote, “has raised concerns about their Donohue, president of the Catholic League for baggage, and every faith holds beliefs that will respect for the separation of church and state, not Religious and Civil Rights, told CNA on Aug. 30. seem bizarre to outsiders. I grew up believing that to mention the separation of fact and fiction.” “But true to form, he did what comes naturally a priest could turn a bread wafer into the actual The Times has since corrected the article and to him — he trashed Catholicism.” flesh of Christ.” now lists Santorum as a Catholic. In his Aug. 25 editorial, “Asking Candidates In response to the piece, Donohue criticized Keller has also faced criticism for the paper Tougher Questions About Faith,” outgoing execu- Keller for allowing a personal vendetta against the allegedly giving minimal and uncritical coverage of tive editor Keller urged greater scrutiny of Re- Catholic Church to seep through his article. President Obama’s religious beliefs during his publican candidates’ religious beliefs, touching on “It does not speak well about the New York presidential campaign in 2008. Mormonism, Evangelical Christianity and his own Times that only embittered ex-Catholics are The president encountered controversy over past adherence to Catholicism. allowed to climb to the top,” he said. his affiliation with Rev. Jeremiah Wright — a “If a candidate for president said he believed “It is one thing to promote to senior positions prominent Chicago pastor known for making that space aliens dwell among us, would that affect those who were raised Catholic and have grown extremist and racially charged statements. Prayer

Continued from Page 20 By pausing and reflecting, we may soften some of the feelings while help- In pausing and seeking God’s will, matter with me,” “I can’t do anything change some of our thinking to: “She ing us respond in healthier and more we can respond in more appropriate right,” etc. might be right, there may be a better appropriate ways. and loving ways. And with God’s help, It is these or similar thoughts that way,” “It’s OK for me to make mis- The challenge for us is pausing we gradually change our behaviors, contribute to and exacerbate our feel- takes, I’m human,” “His behavior and and reflecting. Believe me, I know. habits and ultimately our destiny. In ing badly and reacting by attacking hurtful words are about him and are However, if we can pause, notice our doing so, we become our true selves, and saying hurtful things, or by with- not about me,” “I’m a child of God and feelings and reflect on how we may be the men and women we are meant to drawing and experiencing resentment God loves me no matter what.” These misinterpreting something, we give be, while being in the flow of the Holy and self-pity. and similar thoughts can change and ourselves a chance to seek God’s will. Spirit within our souls. Peace. 22 Sooner Catholic September 11, 2011 Calendar SEPTEMBER the world. The group will meet 17 The Lay Missionaries of 18 The Community of the 11 Charismatic Healing Mass, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Spaces are Charity, the Secular (Lay) Order Secular Order of the Blessed 5:30 p.m. at Immaculate Conception limited. Call Marka Acton at 216- of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Virgin Mary of Mt. Carmel and Church, 3901 S.W. 29th St., OKC. 5116 for registration. meet in the Council Room at St. John St. Teresa of Jesus - Oklahoma For more information, call the church the Baptist Parish, Edmond, on the Community and Province of St. office at (405) 685-4806. 14 Catholic War Veterans USA. first and third Saturday of each Therese meets at St. Joseph Oklahoma Memorial Post 168 meets month beginning with Mass at Carmelite Monastery in Piedmont 12 Eucharistic Adoration at every second Wednesday of the 7:30 a.m. in the chapel. For more from 1 to 4 p.m. For more informa- Christ the King Church, every month at 7 p.m. in the Sunnylane information, call Toni Harrelson, tion, call Katherine Payne at (405) Monday starting with Mass at 6:30 Family Reception Center, 3900 SE LMC, at (405) 341-2199 or 210-4826. a.m., Adoration from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 29th St., Del City. For more informa- [email protected]. with Benediction at 6 p.m. Christ the tion, contact Ken at (405) 739-0036 18 The Secular Franciscan Order King, 8005 Dorset Drive, OKC. or by e-mail at [email protected]. 17 Villa Teresa is hosting its of St. Francis Fraternity meets at inaugural Fun Run! Beginning at 1:15 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Hospital 8 a.m. with the children one mile run Chapel. For more information, call 13 Catholic War Veterans 15 Exposition of the Blessed (of any war/conflict) meet the second and followed by the 5K walk/run at 9 Jim Disbrow at 830-8688. Sacrament at Epiphany Parish, in Tuesday of each month in the a.m. The race begins at school, 1216 the chapel every Thursday, 8:30 a.m. community room of St. Ann Classen Drive. 20 The Central Region Council of to 8 p.m. and daily (M,T,W,F) from Retirement Center at 7 p.m. For Catholic Women will meet at 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. All are welcome. more information, contact Father M. 17 Project Gabriel Traning. Catholic Charities on Classen. Epiphany is located at 7336 W. Price Oswalt at (405) 567-3404. Project Gabriel is a parish-based Registration at 9 a.m. Speaker is Britton Road, Oklahoma City 73132. outreach designed to assist women in Rev. Bill Pruett. Cost is $7. RSVP to 14 Eucharistic Adoration at the a crisis pregnancy. A training will be your Parish Altar Society representa- Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual 15 Eucharistic Adoration every held at the Catholic Pastoral Center, tive or to Mary Ann at 943-5758. Help, NW 32nd and Western, every Thursday night from 5 p.m. to mid- 7501 N.W. Expressway, from 9 a.m. to Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. to noon. night at St. Gregory’s Chapel, St. 12 p.m. in Room 136. For more 21 Prayer Day for Retired with Gregory’s Monastery, Shawnee. The information and to register, call the Father Anthony Ram at the Catholic 14 Eucharistic Adoration every evening will begin with Mass at 5 Office of Family Life at 721-8944. Pastoral Center. Registration at 9:30 Wednesday at St. Charles Borromeo p.m. with Adoration to follow. a.m. The group will attend Mass and Church from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Included is vespers with the monks. 18 Pilgrimage Sunday, Mass at 11 have lunch in the cafeteria. There closing with Benediction at 8 p.m. St. a.m., noon lunch, 1 p.m. Novena will be an opportunity for confession. Charles, 5024 N. Grove Avenue, 17-25 Monthly Novena to The prayers to Infant Jesus of Prague, The day will end at 3 p.m. To Oklahoma City. All are welcome. Infant Jesus. Nine days of novenas to Litany of the Infant Jesus, and register, call Mary at (405) 721-5651. Infant Jesus of Prague monthly. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. 14 Engaging Spirituality at St. National Shrine of the Infant Jesus National Shrine of the Infant 24 St. Charles Catholic Singles Monica’s, a new program offered of Prague is located at St. Jesus of Prague is located at St. Dance, 7 to 8 p.m. mix and mingle, through JustFaith Ministries. You Wenceslaus Catholic Church at 304 Wenceslaus Catholic Church at 304 dance lessons. Dance from 8 to 11 can be part of a small group that Jim Thorpe Blvd. in Prague. (405) Jim Thorpe Blvd. in Prague. (405) p.m. For more information, call Al at helps us to find God’s way of being in 567-3080 or shrineofinfantjesus.com. 567-3080 or shrineofinfantjesus.com. (405) 631-0763. Jobs Box Director for the Academic tutoring experience, supervisory application, vita, transcripts, state- into management if desired, paid Success Center experience in an educational setting, ment of teaching and tutoring advanced education and generous St. Gregory’s University seeks excellent interpersonal skills. The philosophy and three letters of bonus opportunities, and a complete qualified applicants for a full-time candidate should be self-directing, recommendation to Human benefits package with this full-time Director for the Academic Success able to work effectively with Resources, St. Gregory’s University, position. Works in an assigned and Center beginning August or students with physical and learning 1900 W. MacArthur Drive, Shawnee, exclusive marketing area to sell and September 2011. This is an exempt disabilities, able to work with a Okla. 74804, attention Dr. Ron service our insurance and retirement position which assigns students flexible schedule. The center director Faulk, Provost. Application materials products. Performs needs analysis needing tutoring to appropriate will serve as the ADA representative may be sent electronically to hr@- for assigned members and recom- tutors (or faculty volunteers, or self), and may teach one course per stgregorys.edu or via mail service. mends appropriate products to meet promotes Support Center services, semester in an appropriate field. those needs. Develops positive rela- monitors and evaluates tutoring Candidate should be able to Field Agent tionships with the local councils to sessions, processes payroll. A more accommodate change and growth at The Knights of Columbus is help recruit new members. In order complete job description is posted the university and should value the seeking a field agent for a career to qualify, one must be eligible for on the SGU website at www.st- education of diverse populations. opportunity representing our in- membership in the Knights of gregorys.edu/. Minimum require- Candidates must be supportive of surance program in the Enid- Columbus. For more information, ments are a master’s degree or and willing to contribute to the Stillwater area. This professional e-mail resume to Kevin Pierce, FICF, higher, commitment to help students Catholic and Benedictine identity position offers the chance to make an General Agent, at Kevin.Pierce@- succeed, teaching experience, of the university. Send letter of above average income, a career path kofc.org or call (405) 514-7660. September 11, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 23 Painter Saves Our Lady Devout Catholic Finds Statue In Pile of Rubble

By Ray Dyer The Sooner Catholic

OKLAHOMA CITY — Gene Saucedo was painting a house on North Portland when something in the high grass and weeds caught his eye. “There was something yellow shining out from under all the garbage and high grass,” Saucedo said. “I wondered what can that be, so I went over and started digging to find what this was.” What it was, was a statue about 4 feet high of Our Lady of Guadalupe and it was in almost perfect condition. Saucedo, a parishioner at Sacred Heart Church, said he was taken by surprise at finding Our Lady in such “horrible” conditions. “I said, ‘Oh no, Mother, I am so sorry they treat you this way.’” For years Saucedo has traveled back and forth across Oklahoma visiting inmates in state and federal prisons. He first started in 1994 taking the Good News to prisoners in the state prison at McAlester. He now stays a bit closer to home visiting inmates at the Federal Transfer Center in Oklahoma City. Deeply devoted to Our Lady, Saucedo hosts a weekly rosary at his home at 1609 SW 48th. He said usually “two or three, sometimes four” people will come on Mondays at 7 p.m. to pray the rosary in his home. Numerous icons of Christ and His Blessed Mother adorn his home as do photos of saints and popes. One of 11 children, Saucedo said, “Faith is my life.” The colorful statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe now rests in a highly visible area of his living room on a pedestal and with a rosary draped around her. “I am blessed, I am very grateful, ” Saucedo said. 24 Sooner Catholic ● September 11, 2011

Promesa de la Tarjeta