THE CATHOLIC MIRROR Vol. 54, No. 2 February 21, 2020 Persons with Wednesdays are fun days in Atlantic disability ministry cutlin started at diocese Patty Origer hired in new part-time role

By Kelly Mescher Collins Staff Writer

Patty Origer has been hired as co- ordinator for Persons With Disability Min- istry, a newly created, part-time position at the Diocese of Des Moines. The goal is to help people with disabilities feel welcomed and included in worship and social activities in our church communities. “We need to set the example for everyone,” Origer said. The welcoming atmosphere and sense of inclusion were evident at St. John Parish when Origer’s fami- ly moved to Adel. Top: Engaging in a game of Jenga during play time at the After School “We visited the parish Program is Vince Freund, Tessa O’Brien, Maddie McLaren, Makenna before we moved there, Schroeder and Monte Smith. Right: A St. Valentine’s photo booth was and one of the first things set up for the After School Party. Annabelle Meyer and Addie Freund we noticed was that there had fun showing their best sides. were five to six individuals with a disability involved where they can send the kids. might have had about their kids getting in Mass,” said Origer, who cares for her By Kelly Mescher Collins “And in that gap of time, we home OK. young adult son who has a disability. “We Staff Writer provide some good faith formation And kids hate missing it. thought, ‘This is a welcoming parish.’ that’s lined up with what they’re doing “The kids are pretty enthusias- “It takes a village to raise any Ss. Peter and Paul Parish has in class,” he added. “That really extends tic and we get pretty excited when they child,” Origer added. “But to raise a child become the go-to hot spot for kids on that afternoon of catechesis.” run in,” Freund said. “They look forward with a disability – having the support of Wednesday afternoons in Atlantic. Dawn and LaNette Freund, to it, and I think the parents appreciate it family, friends and church is really import- That’s because the parish has volunteers who created the after school too.” ant.” filled a need in the community, opening program, said the kids arrive at the par- Volunteers keep things interest- John Gaffney, director of the De- their doors to the kids every Wednesday ish center at about 2 p.m. They have two ing with different church teachings – the partment of Evangelization and Catechesis, afternoon after their early school dis- hours of time scheduled for homework, rosary, liturgical calendar and the saints said Origer is the right person for the job. missal for teachers’ professional devel- reading, a faith lesson, snack and play- – and service projects, including color- “Patty’s life experiences create an opment. time before religious education starts at ing pictures for the elderly and making authenticity which will be received well It has become popular with par- 4 p.m. Parents pick the kids up at about Christmas cards for soldiers serving in family ministry, with pastors and parish ents and students alike. 5:15 p.m. abroad. staff and with essential partners within the It’s also given the parish an Approximately 30-45 kids par- “I think the kids feel it’s a community.” opportunity to reach kids they may not ticipate in the after-school program. fun and tangible way to encounter the She is realistic about the immen- have been reaching before, said Father “We think it’s important be- faith,” Father Chicoine said. “I think sity of the mission, Gaffney said, noting Trevor Chicoine, pastor. cause it offers them a safe place to be,” that they’ve started to see church as not that this will take time. “From a very practical stand- Dawn said. “The kids can know that they just a dull place. It really launches them Origer is optimistic people will be point, it’s become a bridge and has al- can have fun at church and it helps the into their afternoon faith formation class willing to embrace any changes. lowed us to get the kids into the faith for- parents. Once they get them on the bus, much more prepared and ready to en- “It’s important for us as a com- mation that we wouldn’t otherwise get,” it gets them right to the church.” gage.” munity to invite and welcome these indi- said Father Chicoine. “We have a place It eliminates worries parents viduals and families, so together we can all grow in our faith and relationship with God,” Origer said. Devoted STEM teacher honored St. Theresa Catholic School teacher Ronda McCarthy won Almost time for Lent the 2020 IOWA STEM Teacher Award sponsored by Kemin Industries.

The middle school teacher was honored for going above and

Ash Wednesday (Feb. 26) and beyond to inspire student interest in and awareness of science, technol- Good Friday (April 10) are days of fast- ogy, engineering and mathematics. ing and abstinence for Catholics. McCarthy believes STEM education is vital for all students For fasting, those who are be- no matter their learning style. She incorporates STEM education in tween the ages of 18 and 59 are to eat hands-on activities, problem solving and collaboration. She connects one full meal, as well as two smaller students with STEM professionals in the area and through Skype. meals that together are not equal to a She has attended teacher training with the U.S. Naval Acad- full meal. emy and brought a SeaPerch program, which involves underwater ro- Catholics age 14 and older botics, to St. Theresa School. When Bishop William Joensen visited abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday, her classroom during Catholic Schools Week, she taught him how to 2020 Iowa STEM Teacher honoree Ronda McCarthy Good Friday and the Fridays during fly a drone. hugs two eighth grade students who praised her Lent. McCarthy received $1,500 to use for her classroom and dedication to students at St. Theresa Catholic School U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops $1,500 for personal use. She was nominated by her principal, Ellen in Des Moines. Stemler. 2 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 Threshold crossed

By Bishop William Joensen

While I had previously thrown coins into the Trevi Foun- tain based on the popular legend that guarantees one a return trip to the Eternal City, it was a decidedly unique voyage to Rome this past January for my first ever “ad lim- ina” (“to the threshold”) visit of our country’s Region IX (Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, and Iowa) bishops to the “confessions” that mark a sort of spiritual border before the tombs of the Apostles Peter and Paul, and to deepen our collective solidarity with Peter’s successor, Pope Francis. The week was part work- ing retreat with Masses at four major basilicas and time spent in prayer and reflection, and part- ly taken with appointments and conferences with the staffs of the various Vatican congregations and councils that represent the admin- istrative extension of the pope’s executive role and ministry. There was also the graced opportunity to get to know my brother bishops and our Des Moines seminarians more deeply. There’s too much to recount in detail, but I offer some highlights: Photo by Vatican Media First, despite some rum- While visiting with Pope Francis, Bishop William Joensen mentioned that he’s a former philosophy teacher. Pope Francis blings of misperceptions of the replied: “At last you’ve come down to earth!” As Bishop Joensen departed, he promised to keep his feet, faith and com- U.S. Catholic Church by our Eu- mitment to the people of the Des Moines diocese firmly fixed at ground level. ropean counterparts, we encoun- vocation. Similarly, the Council try in the spirit of the 5th Encuen- ing those estranged from homes support of Vatican officials—in- tered a largely appreciative and for Promoting New Evangeliza- tro were points of emphasis. The and native cities by the effects of cluding several American priests affirming estimate of American tion applauded the American spirit recent canonization of Cardinal climate change and overall food from various dioceses working Catholicism by several of the that is willing to adopt innovative Newman can enliven the centers insecurity. tirelessly behind the scenes—to groups we met. The Congrega- strategies for bringing the Gospel at universities – such as at Drake While we were repeated- address head-on the effects of tion for Education applauded the to bear on the lives of young peo- – that bear his name. Our person- ly told at the outset of our sessions clerical sexual abuse and other general state of our K-12 parochi- ple and others. While the accent al witness as bishops to greater that Vatican officials and staffs malfeasance by clergy, whether by al schools, with ongoing dedica- is more upon proclaiming Christ simplicity of life and prophetic were poised to listen rather than the Commission for the Protection tion by diocesan laity who staff than upon reasserting doctrinal presence to our people in the face talk, Roman loquacity sometimes of Minors, or the Congregations and support schools often once truths, the pending completion of of racism, opioid and other addic- prevailed, with mild frustration of the Doctrine of the Faith and operated by religious communi- a revised national catechetical di- tions, and natural disasters such as that we could not more fully en- for the Clergy. Their efforts to ties, while also recognizing that rectory will ensure that the integ- flooding, is vital. gage experts such as Dr. Linda work with survivors, to form and we must continue to be intentional rity of the faith is respected while These notes were echoed Ghisoni. She combines bioethical educate church ministers and the in forming lay administrators and bearing the joy of the gospel to the in our meeting with Cardinal expertise with great passion for faithful, to provide more compre- teachers who are “missionary” in “nones” and others who’ve yet to Peter Turkson (familiar to Des promoting marriage and family hensive guidelines and norms to their approach to their educational encounter Jesus. Moines folks from his presence life, including new movements of safeguard our young people—and The solid cultural val- here in conjunction with receiving spirituality and solidarity among to apply church law appropriately ues sown in the Heartland were the World Food Prize), Cardinal young people. to sanction and remove perpetra- acknowledged in our time with Michael Czerny and their staff on There were more sober tors or those guilty of misconduct THE CATHOLIC Cardinal Marc Ouellet of Cana- the Council for Promoting Inte- moments, including our time with from ministry, are encouraging, da, prefect of the Congregation gral Human Development. Their the Secretariat of State where is- even as more needs to be done. of Bishops. Successful initiatives scope of responsibility is wide, in- sues of religious freedom, the ac- My one-on-one con- to promote priestly and religious cluding advocacy and outreach to cord between the Catholic Church versations and meals with our MIRROR vocations among men and women migrants and refugees, victims of and the Chinese government, and seminarians – Reed Flood, Alex on campuses and within dioceses human trafficking and the distinct the disposition and disclosure Kramer, and Michael Mahoney Bishop William Joensen were touted, with the need to fos- category of “internally displaced” of funds entrusted by donors to – assured me that we are heeding Publisher ter Hispanic vocations and minis- persons within countries, includ- the Papal Foundation and Peter’s the counsel of the Congregation [email protected] Pence collection were discussed. for the Clergy that we should aim But there were also frequent op- for quality men rather than num- Anne Marie Cox portunities to be grateful for the Continued on page 3 Editor [email protected] Official Appointments A letter from Pope Francis Kelly Mescher Collins Deacon Michael Manno, appointed to diaconal ministry with full Staff Writer During Bishop William Joensen’s visit to the Vatican for the ad limina faculties, St. Augustin Parish, effective February 11, 2020. [email protected] visit, he brought a gift from the Diocese of Des Moines. The following is a note of gratitude dated Jan. 23 from Pope Francis. Appointments effective February 17, 2020: The Catholic Mirror (ISSN Father John Owusu Agyenman, of the Diocese of Konongo-Mam- Dear Brother, 0896-6869) is published pong, Ghana, to chaplain, Unity Point Hospital and Broadlawns monthly for $20 per year by Hospital in Des Moines. I wish to thank you in a particular way for your gracious letter and the the Diocese of Des Moines, generous offering of $10,000 for the poor, which you presented to me 601 Grand Ave., Des Moines, Father Trevor Chicoine, presently pastoral administrator of Ss. during your ad Limina Apostolorum visit to Rome. Iowa 50309. Periodicals post- Peter and Paul Parish, Atlantic, and St. Mary Parish, Anita, to age paid at Des Moines. pastor, Ss. Peter and Paul Parish, Atlantic, and St. Mary Parish, I thank you and all the faithful for this charitable contribution which POSTMASTER: Send changes Anita, as well as director of the Office of Worship, Diocese of not only assists me in my ministry but also witnesses to the commu- to THE CATHOLIC MIR- Des Moines. nion in faith and love of the faithful with the Successor of Peter. ROR, 601 Grand Ave., Des Moines, Iowa 50309. In asking for your continued prayers, I cordially impart my Apostolic Blessing to you and all the clergy, religious and laity of the Diocese PHONE: (515)237-5046 of Des Moines as a pledge of joy and peace in our Lord Jesus Christ. EMAIL: mirror@dmdiocese. Faithfully in Christ, org Most. Rev. William Joensen, Ph.D. Jason Kurth Fraternally in Christ, DIOCESAN WEBSITE: Bishop Chancellor www.dmdiocese.org Francis www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 3 Umbral cruzado Aunque ya con anteri- su labor y vocación educativa. A oridad había lanzado monedas a la vez, el Consejo para la Promo- la Fuente de Trevi basado en la ción de la Nueva Evangelización leyenda popular de que eso garan- aplaudió el espíritu americano que tiza el volver a viajar a la Ciudad está dispuesto a adoptar estrate- Eterna, el viaje de enero pasado a gias innovadoras para lograr que Roma fue definitivamente único el Evangelio se adentre en las vi- con motivo de mi primera visita das de los jóvenes y en los demás. “ad limina” (“a los umbrales”) Aunque el énfasis es principal- de los obispos de la Región IX mente el proclamar a Cristo antes de nuestro país (Kansas, Nebras- que reafirmar verdades doctrina- ka, Missouri e Iowa) a las “con- les, aún está pendiente el terminar fesiones” que marcan una cierta la revisión del directorio nacional frontera espiritual ante las tumbas catequético, lo que asegurará que de los Apóstoles Pedro y Pablo, y se respete la integridad de la fe a Photos by Vatican media para profundizar nuestra solidar- la vez que se comunica el gozo Seminarians for the diocese – Alex Kramer idad colectiva con el sucesor de del evangelio a los “ningunos” (top left), Reed Flood (top right) and Mike Pedro, el Papa Francisco. así como a las demás personas Mahoney (right) met Pope Francis during La semana fue en par- quienes aún no se encuentran con the bishop’s ad limina visit. Flood brought te un retiro de trabajo con Misas Jesús. an image of Our Lady of Tenderness to be en las cuatro basílicas mayores El Cardenal Oullet de blessed for his sister, who studies at the y dedicando tiempo en oración y Canadá, prefecto de la Con- University of Iowa. He asked the Holy Fa- reflexión, y en parte reuniones y gregación de los Obispos, recon- conferencias con el personal de oció los valores culturales tan ther to pray for his little sister. varias congregaciones y conse- sólidos que se siembran actual- cluyendo la asistencia y apoyo a para el Fondo de jos del Vaticano que representan mente en las Tierras del Corazón. migrantes y refugiados, víctimas Pedro. Pero tam- la extensión administrativa del Entre los puntos de énfasis se del tráfico humano y la distintiva bién hubo fre- papel ejecutivo y ministerial del celebraron las iniciativas que se categoría de las personas “despla- cuentes oportuni- número de candidatos hacia el papa. También tuve la maravillosa han implementado con éxito en la zadas internamente” dentro de dades para estar agradecidos con sacerdocio. La capacidad de ten- oportunidad de conocer más pro- promoción de vocaciones sacer- sus propios países, incluyendo a el apoyo de los oficiales del Vat- er relaciones sociales normales, fundamente a mis hermanos obis- dotales y religiosas entre hombres aquellos alejados de sus hogares icano – incluyendo varios sacer- una continua conversión y una pos y a nuestros seminaristas de y mujeres en las universidades y y ciudades natales por los efectos dotes americanos de varias dióce- configuración como discípulos Des Moines. Hay demasiado que dentro de las diócesis, así como del cambio climático y la insegu- sis que trabajaron sin descanso de Cristo, así como reflexión in- relatar para poder darles todos los la necesidad de promover voca- ridad alimenticia en general. detrás de escena – para atender de terior y oración que permite que detalles, pero les ofrezco algunos ciones y ministerio hispano dentro Aunque se nos dijo en frente los efectos del abuso sexual los hombres a darse libremente aspectos: del espíritu del 5to. Encuentro. La varias ocasiones al inicio de nues- clerical y otras malas conductas de sí mismos como potenciales Primero, a pesar de reciente canonización del Carde- tras sesiones que los oficiales y del clero, ya sea por la Comisión pastores en el mundo: todos estos ciertos rumores de percepciones nal Newman puede inspirar a los personal del Vaticano estaban para la Protección de Menores o son los ingredientes para las voca- equivocadas sobre la Iglesia centros a portar su nombre en las gustosos de escucharnos, en veces las Congregaciones de la Doctrina ciones que abrazan la cruz y que Católica de los Estados Unidos universidades estatales. Nuestro dominó la efusividad romana, con de la Fe o del Clero. Nos motivan ayudan a cargar la cruz de aquel- por nuestras contrapartes europe- testimonio personal como obispos algo de frustración por no poder sus esfuerzos en el trabajo con los los a quienes sirven. as, encontramos un gran aprecio llevando una mayor sencillez de conectarnos plenamente con ex- sobrevivientes, para formar y ed- Se nos recordó de la y una motivante estima hacia el vida y una presencia profética es pertos tales como la Dra. Linda ucar a los ministros de la iglesia necesidad de apoyo y colabo- catolicismo americano por parte vital ante nuestra gente para poder Ghisoni, quien combina su expe- y a los fieles, en proveer guías y ración fraternal cuando, por aza- de los varios grupos con los que confrontar el racismo, adicciones, riencia en bioética con una gran normas más comprensivas en la res del destino, al concluir nuestra nos reunimos. La Congregación incluyendo la de los opioides y pasión en la promoción del ma- protección de jóvenes – y para Misa vespertina en la Basílica de para la Educación aplaudió el desastres naturales tales como las trimonio y la vida familiar, que se aplicar la ley de la iglesia apropia- San Pablo Extramuros, llega- estado general de nuestras es- inundaciones. incluye entre nuevos movimien- damente en la sanción y remoción mos justamente cuando se estaba cuelas parroquiales del kínder Estas notas hicieron eco tos de espiritualidad y solidaridad de los perpetradores y de aquellos llevando a cabo una procesión al 12vo grado, con una continua en nuestra reunión con el Carde- entre los jóvenes. que son culpables de mala con- solemne de las reliquias de San dedicación de los laicos dioce- nal Turkson (quien es familiar Hubo algunos momentos ducta en el ministerio, aunque se Timoteo, con toda la ceremoniosi- sanos que conforman el personal para la gente de Des Moines por sobrios, entre ellos nuestro tiem- necesita hacer aún más. dad medieval que pudieron lograr. y apoyo de las escuelas que fre- su presencia aquí con la ocasión po con el Secretario de Estado en Mis comidas y conver- San Pablo y San Timoteo eran co- cuentemente operan comunidades de recibir el Premio Mundial del donde se discutieron asuntos de saciones uno a uno con nuestros laboradores espirituales quienes religiosas, reconociendo a la vez Alimento) y el Cardenal Michael libertad religiosa, el acuerdo entre seminaristas Reed Flood, Alex se motivaban y fortalecían uno a que debemos continuar con una Czerny y su personal del Conse- la Iglesia Católica y el gobierno Kramer y Michael Mahoney me otro, y nuestro grupo de obispos firme intención de formar a los jo para la Promoción Integral de de China, y el uso y reporte de los hacen sentir seguro de que segui- reverentemente nos unimos a la administradores y maestros la- Desarrollo Humano. Su área de fondos que confían los donadores mos el consejo de la Congregación procesión en silencio y en canto, icos quienes son “misioneros” en responsabilidad es amplia, in- a la Fundación Papal y a la colecta para el Clero de que debemos bus- Continuar en pagina 4 Threshold crossed car hombres de calidad en vez de

Continued from page 2 successors of the apostles. A couple light moments Of course, it almost goes included being asked wheth- bers of candidates for the priest- without saying that the highlight er he takes a regular day off, to hood. Capacity for normal social had come the day before when which he responded by beating relationships, ongoing conversion Bishop R. Walker Nickless of his breast and confessing, “I am and configuration as disciples to Sioux City presided and preached a sinner,” who maybe eeks out a Christ, and deep interior reflec- at the Mass at the crypt in the low- couple hours’ relaxation on rare tion and prayer that enable men to er level of St. Peter’s Basilica. He occasions listening to music, chat- freely go out of themselves as pro- spoke movingly of the unfolding ting with friends, or taking a brief spective shepherds in the world: deepening of Peter’s love in the walk—not bad for an 83-year-old all of these are ingredients for face of Christ’s merciful probing with one lung! And when I pref- vocations who will embrace the of his soul. And then, after Mass, aced a question about the engage- cross and help take up the cross of we were ushered into the papal ment of North and Latin America those whom they serve. apartments as a group of bishops, by saying I was formerly a philos- We were reminded of the priests and seminarians, where ophy teacher, he retorted, “At last need for fraternal support and col- the Holy Father dedicated two- you’ve come down to earth!” The laboration when, by happenstance, and-a-half hours to engaging us lighthearted photo as we parted at our concluding afternoon Mass in a private audience. He is tru- company was in response to my at the Basilica of St. Paul-out- Is anyone in YOUR family DIVORCED? Please give ly a shepherd after Christ’s heart promise to him that I would keep side-the-Walls we arrived just as someone a copy of this ad or invite them to The Catholic’s who is energized by genuine dia- my feet, faith, and commitment a solemn procession of the relics logue; with the aid of a translator, to the people of the Des Moines DIVORCE SURVIVAL Guide 12-week group which begins of St. Timothy was taking place, he proved untiringly receptive to Diocese firmly fixed at ground March 23rd in The Blessed Mother Room, 820 Porter with all the medieval pageantry fraternal repartee, where he dis- level–which, having “crossed the Ave, Des Moines, on the Christ the King Campus. Cost they could muster. Ss. Paul and played with amazing stamina and threshold” of the earthly nucle- of $30 per person includes a “Personal Survival Guide” Timothy were spiritual co-work- good humor, and did not skirt the us of our Roman Catholic faith, and all materials for 12 weeks. Find comfort and counsel ers who offered encouragement tough questions about life-related is what–with lots of prayers and consistent with Catholic teachings. For more information and strength to each other, and our issues, or the sorry matters sur- regular reminders from others–I group of bishops reverently joined call Deacon Tony Valdez at 515-979-2301 or email him at rounding the former cardinal and intend to do. After all, I promised the procession in silence and song, [email protected] Visit www.catholicsdivorce.com now Mr. Theodore McCarrick. the pope! graced to deepen our own bond as 4 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 OPINION Show your love every day February can be a busy month in our love alive! So I’m grateful for National Mar- Marriage and Family Ministry, as we cel- Marriage & One way to think about this is to riage Week and Valentine’s Day. I’m grate- ebrate National Marriage Week and Val- Family Life notice that often our emotions flow from ful for the reminder that love needs to take entine’s Day, and as many of our parishes our actions. We live in an age that greatly, on flesh, it needs to be chosen and acted host marriage enrichment events, talks, and rightly, values authenticity, or being upon every day. and celebrations. true to oneself. It needs to become incarnate, be- During this time it’s easy to get But in the spirit of authentici- cause it’s when love becomes incarnate caught up in the busyness and forget to cel- By ty there is sometimes the perception that that it is given the space to grow. I live this ebrate my own marriage, to honor my own Adam Storey in order to be true to oneself, my actions out very imperfectly in my own life, but wife, and to incarnate our love. always need to follow my emotions. If I February is a great opportunity to renew “Incarnate our love” might be a it’s important to remember that our love don’t feel “in love,” then gestures of love our commitment to incarnate love! clunky description, but the concept is sim- needs to take on flesh, not just once a year are seen as out of place, or worse, dishon- ple. Valentine’s Day is a reminder that our but on a daily basis. We do this in words est. love needs to take on flesh: Through date of affection, in small acts of service, and And yet, ask any married couple Adam Storey is the diocesan director nights, through flowers and cards, through in taking the time to linger with each oth- and they will tell you that it’s precise- of Marriage & Family Life. He can be setting aside distractions and just being to- er, even if only for a few moments before ly when we least feel “in love” that we reached at [email protected] or gether. work or bed. need to foster actions of love, because it’s 515-237-5056. And while February is a time Letting our love become incar- through these choices that we can draw when our whole society celebrates love, nate is vital because it is what helps keep passion back into a marriage. Love lived in a profound way

Jan. 22 marked the 47th anni- es here at St. Albert Catholic School. I love she must have emanated to every- versary of the Roe v. Wade decision by Guest Column do not know any of the family members one around her. It was a snowy and dreary the U.S Supreme Court legalizing abor- well, but I attended the funeral because day outside, but my heart was filled with tion in our country. As marchers pre- of their connection to our school. I am sunshine because of this hour of prayer. pared to descend on Washington, D.C., so glad I did. This was the most power- I extend my condolences to the I hoped and prayed for the day when ful pro-life event I have ever attended! entire Heithoff family. I can only imag- the march will no longer be necessary. The written obituary was beauti- ine the sense of loss you feel. Please I have been involved with the ful. It gave a historical sketch of a life well- know of my prayers for all of you. pro-life movement for many years. This lived, and it also pointed to a family who Eternal rest grant unto Mary Pat, By Deacon Vernon involvement has given me the privi- understands love in a profound way. The fu- O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon Dobelmann lege of meeting people like Abby John- neral liturgy was an uplifting experience in her. May she rest in peace. Amen. son, Pam Tebow (Tim’s mom), Alveda alone in this battle helps us persevere. the midst of the sorrow and grief of the fam- King and others. I have been impacted The anniversary of Roe v. Wade ily. The pastor summed it up well when he Reprinted with permission from Deacon by speeches from these fine people, and this year did not find me at a large pro- said, “The world needs families like yours.” Vernon Dobelmann‘s blog Articulating I have had the privilege of sharing a life event. Instead, I attended a small fu- I walked out of church at the Hope. Deacon Dobelmann is the executive speaking platform with some of them neral for someone I had never even met. end of the service wishing I had known director of St. Albert Catholic School in at pro-life events. Knowing we are not It was for the sister of one of our coach- Mary Pat. I could almost feel the joy and Council Bluffs.

OBITUARY Her family did not dwell on what Mary could not Vocational De- do – instead they taught her all they could and delighted in velopment Cen- every milestone she achieved. ter (VODEC). Mary Patricia Heithoff What they didn’t expect is what she would She teach them and every person lucky enough to know loved singing Mary Patricia Heithoff peacefully passed from her: how to live joyfully, how to laugh, how to love. and dancing, El- this life into the loving arms of God and her parents on She was a trailblazer for all those born after her vis and the Fonz, Jan. 17. with Down syndrome. coloring, her dog She was born in Council Bluffs on June 14, 1958 She showed them by example that they could live Coco, Diet Coke, to Robert and Donna Heithoff. a full and extraordinary life – that their extra chromosome and talking with She was diagnosed with Down syndrome, and at did not have to limit them but in fact was their superpower. her loved ones that time there were no pamphlets, no early intervention Mary was a strong, happy, and optimistic woman about everything. centers, no support groups, no anything to help her par- who positively impacted the life of everyone she met. Mary is sur- ents. She accepted her friends and loved ones just as vived by her In fact, doctors told them that she would be fee- they were, with no conditions and no judgment. brothers and sis- ble-minded and helpless, she would not live more than 18 Her smile could make one feel like the most im- ters, her nieces years, and she would be a burden for them and their other portant person in the world. and nephews, children. The Heithoffs were twice blessed when another and 22 great The experts advised them to place her in an child with Down syndrome was born into their family in nieces and nephews. institution. 1973. The funeral Mass was Jan. 22 at St. Peter Catho- They didn’t do that. Mary loved her brothers and sisters and nieces lic Church in Council Bluffs. They believed there was value in every life. and nephews, but she particularly doted on her little broth- Memorials are suggested to SWI Educational They brought her home to five siblings and raised her er Joe. They had a special bond that was a joy to witness. Foundation c/o Robert Heithoff Memorial Scholarship along with them and the two other children who were She attended Dr. Lee Martin Therapy Center, Fund or to Bethany Lutheran Home. born subsequently. volunteered at Rose Kennedy School, and worked at Umbral Cruzado

Continued from page 3 ver cómo Cristo buscaba su alma donde mostró su sorprendente vi- escurre un par de horas para rela- fe y compromiso con el pueblo de tan misericordiosamente. Y luego, talidad y buen humor, y sin esqui- jarse y escuchar música, conver- la Diócesis de Des Moines firme- con la gracia de poder profundizar después de Misa, se nos condujo var las preguntas difíciles sobre sar con amigos, o dar un paseo mente fijos a nivel del suelo – lo nuestros propios lazos como suce- hacia el apartamento papal como asuntos relacionados con la cul- caminando – ¡nada mal para cual, al haber “cruzado el umbral” sores de los apóstoles. grupo de obispos, sacerdotes y tura de la vida, o los lamentables un hombre de 83 años que tiene del núcleo terrenal de nuestra fe Por supuesto, queda seminaristas, en donde el Santo hechos que rodean al ex cardenal solamente un pulmón! Otro fue católica y romana, es lo que – con de más decirlo, que el momen- Padre nos dedicó dos horas y me- y ahora laicizado Señor McCar- cuando hice una pregunta sobre muchas oraciones y continuos re- to cumbre se llevó a cabo el día dia conectándose con nosotros en rick. la conexión entre Norte y Latino cordatorios de los demás – tengo anterior cuando el Obispo R. una audiencia privada. Él es ver- Hubo un par de mo- América en que le dije que yo an- la intención de hacer. Después de Walker Nickless de Sioux City daderamente un pastor que sigue mentos amenos como cuando le tes era profesor de filosofía, a lo todo, ¡se lo prometí al Papa! presidió y predicó en la Misa en el corazón de Cristo quien se ener- preguntamos si tiene un día li- que contestó “¡Al fin has bajado la cripta en el nivel inferior de la giza con diálogos genuinos; con la bre regular, a lo que respondió, a la tierra!” La sencilla y cálida Basílica de San Pedro. Él habló ayuda de un intérprete, se mostra- golpeándose el pecho y confe- foto que nos tomamos al partir fue emotivamente sobre la profunda ba determinadamente receptivo sando, “Soy un pecador,” quien en respuesta a la promesa que le revelación del amor de Pedro al a conversaciones fraternales, en probablemente en raras ocasiones hice de que mantendría mis pies, www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 5 Ask a Priest

This month, we’re featuring are some things that we just questions from confirmation can’t figure out. candidates at St. Patrick Parish in Council Bluffs. Q. Can you stop being a priest if you want to? Q. I haven’t gone to confession A. The Church has a up since my first reconciliation. process called “laicization.” If Father, I still am not sure how a priest no longer wants to serve a priest can forgive sin? Can as a priest, he can apply to be you help me better understand? laicized. This means that he is A. Reconciliation returned to the lay state rather gives us a chance to look over than the clerical state. Sign our lives and: 1. Be grateful for the bless- Q. Are you proud to be a priest? ST. ANTHONY CATHOLIC CHURCH 15 Indianola Rd. Des Moines, Iowa ings and gifts God has given us, A. Yes. and 2. Consider what we have Q. If you are a priest, do you Invites YOU to attend the 99 Experience failed to live up to and begin always have to work at a church again. or can you be a priest in other I’m sure that a priest ways? LENTEN PARISH MISSION will be happy to help you since A. Priests serve the it’s been a while since your first Church in many different ways. Your life WILL be changed forever! reconciliation. I should point Some are teachers; some are out that God forgives sin; the chaplains at hospitals or in the Video priest is there to proclaim that, military; some serve in dioce- March 8th, 9th, 10th Presentations and also to be of help to you san offices; some are mission- 2020 by: to follow the Lord more inten- aries. But almost always, in tionally. The prayer of abso- churches or chapels, they cele- St. Anthony Catholic Church - Parish Hall lution contains these words: brate the sacraments in addition 5:30PM - 8:00PM We are pleased to “I absolve you from your sins to their main ministry. Mass, Dinner & Program welcome Bishop IN THE NAME of the Father See full schedule online and of the Son and of the Holy Q. Did you ever not believe in Joensen to our Spirit.” (Not in the priest’s own God? Parish Mission Monday, March 9th. CHILDREN’S PARISH MISSION name.) A. Not really. I’ve There is also a Mission for the children! had times in my life when K - 7 Lower Church / Ages 1 - 4 Lower Church Q. Why does God allow bad God seemed distant and hard things to happen to people? to reach. What I’ve come to Cost: Freewill donation—MUST SIGN UP A. I’ll bet you might realize is that I can’t know ev- Each participant will receive a free “99 Experience” book someday become a philosophy erything. One big help for me and mission materials. teacher! Your question is one is meditating on the ways that that people have struggled with Jesus taught and healed. Check Sign up to reserve your space and invite a friend! since the beginning of time. out the gospels, which are filled The Old Testament book of Job with them. Go to: StAnthonyDSM.org or call the Parish Office: is a reflection on a good - per 515-244-4709 son who falls on very bad luck. Got a question for “Ask a Check it out. A Jewish Rabbi, Priest” and its author, Father named Harold Kushner, wrote John Ludwig? Send it to: Pilgrimage to a book entitled “When Bad communications@dmdiocese. Things Happen to Good Peo- org. ple.” It’s a good meditation on ermany and ustria some of life’s mysteries. There G Presented by Collins Travel andA Pilgrimages

Act fast - Follow us! just a few spots left! Space limited to 20 people!

Hosted by Father Andrew Windschitl ...and Jason Collins, SS John and Paul Parish pastor of St. Mary /Holy Cross Parish founder of Collins Travel and member in Elkhart in the Diocese of Des Moines.... of St. Francis Parish, West DesMoines 1401 First Ave. S, Altoona Fourth Degree, Knights of Columbus Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus Join us for this Incredible Journey of Faith and Adventure Time: 4:30-7:00 p.m. to Germany and Austria July 24-August 2, 2020!

Cost: $10 for adults; Things we’ll do in Germany Things we’ll do in Austria $5 for children (ages 6-12); * Watch world-renowned “Passion Play” * See Eucharistic Miracle location, Seefeld free for children 5 and under. ***Play held only once every 10 years*** * Take exciting ride into to majestic alps

Menu: Fried and baked fish, baked potato, potato * Tour unique and ornate churches * Tour unique and ornate churches salad, green beans, mac & cheese, cheese * Explore historic Munich city center * Explore gorgeous resort town of Seefeld * Visit Dachau Concentration Camp * Explore mysterious Salzburg salt mine pizza. Four shrimp on a stick is available for * NEW - Hitler’s Nazi Eagle’s Nest * Nostalgic Sound of Music Tour $4 more. Take out and drive-thru are * Tour breathtaking Neuschwanstein Castle * Discover unique and beautiful Salzburg available. There will also be a youth * Experience famous Hofbrauhaus * Dine on local cuisine and beverages desert table. * Dine on local cuisine and beverages * Engage with local Austrians Trip includes daily Mass, confession, time for shopping & relaxation!

 Collins Travel Agency and Pilgrimages, LLC is registered with the State of Iowa, Seller of Travel ID# 1392

with Jon Leonetti and Fr. Scott Bullock Aug. 31–Sept. 9, 2020 $4,249 per person "This pilgrimage changed our lives and perspective forever!" -Susanne R. Iowa View full itinerary & videos at www.CollinsTravel.biz and click on “Pilgrimages.” www.PilgrimageToRome.com Questions? Email [email protected] or call 515-850-6133. 6 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 Around the Diocese Lenten Fish Fry Calendar The following are parish Lenten fish Des Moines Area Feb. 23 Sunday March 27-29 fry dinners on Fridays during Lent, Greenfield, St. John Spaghetti & Meatball Dinner All Saints Friday-Sunday Feb. 28 to April 3 except where oth- Shrimp boil on Saturday, Feb. 22 at CHURCHVILLE – An- Served from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $9/ Library Book Sale erwise noted. 6:30 p.m. Cost is a $20/person or nual all-you-can-eat Italian spa- adults, $4/children ages 6-12; free/ DES MOINES – Christ $150/table of 8. ghetti and meatball dinner in the children under age 6; Alternate: grilled the King Parish library book sale Adair, St. John Churchville Assumption Shrine cheese sandwich, mac and cheese. is March 27, 4 -7 p.m.; March 28, Served on March 6, 20 and April 3 Hamburg, St. Mary Hall, two miles northwest of 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and March 29 8 from 5-7 p.m. Free-will offering. Al- Served on April 3 from 5-7:30 p.m. Martensdale, from 11 a.m. to 2:30 Basilica of St. John a.m.-1 p.m. ternate: shrimp. Cost is free-will donation. Alternate: p.m. Cost is $8/adults, $3/chil- Served from 4:45-6:45 p.m. Cost is mac and cheese. dren ages 5-10. There will also be $10/adults, $3/children ages 4-10; March 28 Saturday Adel, St. John a silent auction. free/children age 3 and under; Alter- Bishop Dingman Peace Award Served on Feb. 28, March 6, 27 and Harlan, St. Michael nate: egg rolls, Spanish rice, mac and DES MOINES -- Cath- April 3 from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $8/ Served from 5:30-7 p.m. Cost is $10/ cheese. Feb. 25 Tuesday olic Peace Ministry’s 25th annual adults; $5/children; $25/family liv- adults; $5/children ages 4-10; free/ Catholic Widows and Bishop Dingman Peace Award ing in same house. Alternate: grilled children under age 3; $35/parents and Christ the King Widowers event will be at Holy Trinity cheese. Dessert bar is available for a dependent children. Alternate: grilled Served from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $10/ WEST DES MOINES Church. Food and fellowship in free-will offering. cheese sandwiches. Carryout is avail- adults, $5/children (only includes -- Business meeting at 2 p.m. at the parish hall at 6 p.m., speaker able. cheese pizza); Alternate: cheese pizza. Sacred Heart Church. For more and award program in the sanctu- Altoona, Ss. John and Paul information contact Judy ary at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $50. Served from 4:30-7 p.m. Cost is $10/ Indianola, St. Thomas Aquinas Sacred Heart, West Des Moines LaRonde at 515-988-7791. Scholarships are available. This adults; $5/children (ages 6-12); free/ Served from 5:30-7 p.m. Cost is $10/ Served from 5:30-7 p.m. Cost is $10/ year’s peace award recipient is children ages 5 and under. Alternate: adults; $5/children ages 6-12; free/ adults (ages 11+), $5/children ages March 1 Sunday Carla Dawson and the keynote mac and cheese, cheese pizza. Take children under age 5. Alternate: grilled 3-10; free/children under age 3; $40/ Country Style Breakfast speaker is Johnny Zokovitch, out and drive-through are available. cheese sandwiches. Carryout is avail- family. Alternate: cheese pizza and INDIANOLA – The executive director of Pax Chris- able. fish tacos. Knights of Columbus will host ti USA. For more information Ankeny, Our Lady’s Immaculate a breakfast fundraiser at the St or to reserve tickets, call Patti Heart Logan, St. Anne St. Anthony Thomas Aquinas Parish Hall McKee at 515-803-1152 or email Served on March 6, 20 and April 3 Served from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $9/ Served from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $10/ from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. featur- catholicpeaceministry@gmail. from 5-7 p.m. Free-will offering. adults, $8/seniors age 60+, $5/chil- adults, $5/children. ing pancakes, egg bake, sausage, com. dren ages 5-12; free/children age 4 and ham, hash browns, biscuits and Ankeny, St. Luke the Evangelist under. Alternate: grilled cheese sand- St. Augustin gravy. $5/adults and carry-outs, March 28 Saturday Served on March 27 from 5:30-7 p.m. wich. Served on March 27 and April 3 from $3/children. Proceeds go to the DCCW Conference 5-7:30 p.m. Cost is $10/adults & scholarship fund. ATLANTIC – The Atlantic, Ss. Peter and Paul Neola, St. Patrick teens, free/children age 12 and under; 91st annual Des Moines Dioce- Served from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Cost is Served from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $9/ $40/family. Alternate: taco & salsa bar, March 8 Sunday san Council of Catholic Women $10/adults; $5/children (ages 6-12); adults, $4/children ages 5-10; free/ mac & cheese, grilled cheese sand- free/children ages 5 and under. Alter- children under age 5. Alternate: grilled Lenten Taizé Prayer Service (DCCW) conference will be at wiches, cheese quesadillas. nate: mac and cheese, cheese pizza. cheese sandwich WEST DES MOINES Ss Peter and Paul Parish Hall. Take out and drive-through available. – Taizé will be held 7-8 p.m. in All women are invited. Keynote St. Francis of Assisi, Missouri Valley, St. Patrick the St. Francis of Assisi church speaker is Barbara Heil. Bishop West Des Moines Audubon, St. Patrick/Exira, Served from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $8, $4/ sanctuary. Details at saintfran William Joensen will be our cel- Served from 5:30-7:15 p.m. Cost is Holy Trinity children. Alternate: mac and cheese, cischurch.org or 515-440-1030 ebrant at Mass. Registration at 8 $10/adults (ages 13+), $5/children Served from 5-7:30 p.m. Cost is $10/ cheese pizza, salad bar, peanut butter or lenten-taize-prayer.eventbrite. a.m.; conference begins at 9 a.m.; ages 6-12; free/children under age 6. adults; $5/children (ages 5-10); free/ and jelly sandwich. com. event ends at 3 p.m. There is a Alternate: cheese pizza and mac & $25 fee due by March 18 which children ages 5 and under. cheese. Scouts will host a dessert fund- Norwalk, St. John the Apostle March 15 Sunday includes continental breakfast raiser (priced a la carte). and lunch. More information go Carlisle, St. Elizabeth Seton Served from 5:30-7 p.m. Cost is $8/ Fried Chicken Dinner to the website: desmoinesdccw. Served on March 6 and 20, and April 3 adults, $6/seniors, $3/children age 12 St. Joseph NORWALK – St. John org or contact Carolyn Smith at from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $10/adults and and under. Alternate: mac and cheese, Served from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $9/ the Apostle Parish is hosting a 712-527-4206 or Connie Sampers $5/children under age 12. Alternate: cheese pizza. adults, $7/children ages 6-12; free/ fried chicken dinner from 11 a.m. at 712-623-2369. mac and cheese. children under age 6; $40/immediate to 2 p.m. Cost is $10/adults, $5/ Osceola, St. Bernard family. Alternate: tuna noodle casse- children ages 6-12 and free for July 18 Saturday Chariton, Sacred Heart Served from 5:30-7 p.m. in the school. role, mac and cheese. children age 5 and under. Served from 5-6:45 p.m. Cost is $9/ Cost is $9/adults; $5/children ages Ignatian Retreat Day adults and children ages 6-17; free/ 4-13; free/children under age 4; $30/ DES MOINES – The 5th St. Mary of Nazareth March 20, 27, children age 5 and under. Alternate: family. Alternate: grilled cheese, mac annual Ignatian retreat day with Served from 4:30-7 p.m. Cost is $10/ fish tacos, pasta w/marinara. and cheese. April 3 Fridays Jesuit Father Bob Dufford will be adults; $9/seniors age 60 and older; Widowed, Divorced, or at St. Mary of Nazareth Catholic $5/children under age 12. Alternate: Council Bluffs, Corpus Christi Perry, St. Patrick Separated? Church from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Reg- mac and cheese. Served from 4:30-7 p.m. Cost is $11. Served from 5-7 p.m. in the school. DES MOINES – Be- istration will begin at 8:15 a.m. Alternate: mac and cheese, cheese piz- Cost is $8/adults; $4.50/children ages ginning Experience® is a pro- The cost is $50 (scholarships are St. Theresa za 10 and under; $25 for family with chil- gram intended for those suffer- available). For more information Served from 5:30-7 p.m. Cost is free dren. Alternate: fish tacos; shrimp for ing the loss of a spouse through and to register visit the Emmaus will offering. Alternate: Fish tacos, Elkhart, St. Mary-Holy Cross an additional $2. death, divorce or separation. House website: theemmaushouse. veggie and cheese pizzas, mac and Served on Feb. 28, March 13 and 27 Open house is 7-8:30 p.m. at St. org/ignatian-retreat-day or con- cheese and assorted home baked des- from 5-7 p.m. Free-will offering. Red Oak, St. Mary Augustin Church. Questions? tact Kevin O’Donnell at 515-282- serts. Served from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $8/adults Contact Father Bob Schoemann 4839, kevin@theemmaushouse. Glenwood, Our Lady of the Holy (ages 12+); $4/children ages 5-11; at 515-418-1938, Daryl Stahl at org. 515-480-6617, or Dana Reed at Rosary free/children under age 5. Alternate: 515-975-3745. Served from 5-7 p.m. Cost is $9/ mac and cheese Lunch on Fridays adults; $3/children. Alternate: mac and Catholic Daughters raffle cheese. St. Boniface, Waukee COUNCIL BLUFFS – All six Fridays of Lent, Feb. 28-April 3, St. Ambrose Cathedral Served from 5-7 p.m. Stations of the Served from noon-1 p.m. in the parish the Catholic Daughters Court St. Anthony #330 annual Lenten Granger, Assumption Cross at 5:45 p.m. Cost is $10. Alter- hall. Cost is $5. Menu: fish sandwich, raffle will be at two fish fry locations: St. Patrick and Corpus Served from 5:30-7 p.m. Cost is free- nate: spaghetti, cheese pizza. chips, fruit, water. Christi, both in Council Bluffs. Both dinners run 4:30 p.m. - 7 will donation. Alternate: homemade p.m. Main raffle item at both sites is a 14” ASUS Chromebook, veggie or cheese pizza. along with several other prizes. Separate ticket collection boxes for each item. $1/ticket or 6/$5. Reconciliation opportunities VATICAN CITY March 3 March 22 March 28 April 1 (CNS) – Recognizing and re- St. Francis of Assisi, West Des St. Boniface, Waukee Basilica of St. John, Des Moines St. Augustin, Des Moines at 6 penting for one’s own sins and Moines at 7 p.m. at 1 p.m. at 10 a.m. p.m. errors is difficult, but essential, Individual reconciliation times Pope Francis said. March 8 March 24 March 29 at St. Ambrose Cathedral, which “To understand Immaculate Conception, St. St. Joseph, Des Moines St. John the Apostle, Norwalk at serves parishioners and down- (one’s) sin is a gift from God, it Marys at 9 a.m. at 6:30 p.m. 1 a.m. town Des Moines workers, are is the work of the Holy Spirit” All Saints, Des Moines at St. Mary, Elkhart as follows. who helps each person realize 2 p.m. March 25 at 1 p.m. • Saturdays: Feb. 29, March 7, “the evil I have done or that I Assumption, Granger at St. Mary of Nazareth, Des 14, 21, 28 and April 4 — 2:30- may do,” the pope said Feb. 12 March 9 6:30 p.m. Moines at 3 p.m. 3:30 p.m. during his weekly general audi- Our Lady’s Immaculate Heart, St. Theresa Church of the Child • Tuesdays of Lent, March 3, ence. Ankeny at 7 p.m. Jesus, Des Moines at 7 p.m. March 31 10, 17, 24, 31, and April 7, 11- The following is a list St. Luke the Evangelist, Ankeny 11:30 a.m. of communal reconciliation March 10 March 26 at 6:30 p.m. • Wednesdays of Lent March services in the Des Moines Holy Trinity, Des Moines at 7 St. Pius X, Urbandale Sacred Heart, West Des Moines 4, 11, 18, 25, April 1, 8, 11 a.m.- metro area. Contact your local p.m. at 7 p.m. at 7 p.m. noon and after the 12:10 p.m. parish for individual reconcili- Ss. John and Paul, Mass ation times. Altoona at 7 p.m. www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 7 Christ the King expands daily Mass and confession times

cal Church is more than just my By Kelly Mescher Collins parish, which is why I consulted Staff Writer with other pastors before making New schedule: the change.” To better meet the needs People are responding Confession of the community, Christ the King positively to the expansion. Monday - Friday Parish changed its daily Mass and “Attendance is up at all 6 - 7 p.m. confession schedule. the Masses,” Father McManus The parish now offers said. “I would say we average Saturday: daily Mass five days a week – around 80 people. Some nights 4 - 4:45 p.m. Monday through Friday at 5:30 more, some nights less.” p.m., said the pastor, Father PJ The parish has also been Sunday: McManus. flooded with people attending 4:15 - 5 p.m. Previously, the most confession. well-attended Masses were at “We keep getting more Mass 5:30 p.m. Mondays and Tues- and more business for confes- Monday, Tuesday days. Their one morning Mass – sion,” he said. “So the two [time 5:30 p.m. 8:40 a.m. Wednesdays – typically periods offered previously] were had low attendance, fewer than Tuesday night at 6 p.m. and then Wednesday - Friday 30 people. Saturday morning. We would ha- 8:40 a.m., 5:30 p.m. “So it seemed pretty ob- bitually be hearing confessions Photo by Kelly Mescher Collins vious what we ought to do,” said for three hours Tuesday night and Father PJ McManus is pastor of Christ the King Parish. Saturday - 5 p.m. Father McManus, who serves the four hours Saturday morning.” 3:15 p.m. Mass every Sunday, the neighboring parishes to best meet parish alongside associate pastor The parish expanded, Blessed Sacrament is exposed in the needs of the people. Sunday - 7:30 a.m. Father George Komo. Hispanic offering the sacrament every eve- the church. The remnants from Parishioner Carlos Arre- 9 a.m., 11 a.m., chaplain Father Jose Reynaldo ning at 6 p.m. after Mass Monday that Mass are exposed and it’s put ola Duran enjoys the new sched- 3:15 p.m. Spanish also serves the parish part-time. through Friday. out for about an hour before ben- ule. “Daily Mass is the heart- “If you build it, they will ediction. “Whenever I go to Mass, First Friday - 7 p.m. beat of a parish,” Father McMa- come,” Father McManus said. “On Saturday, about an I end up going to confession, even nus said. “While the bulk of our “It’s a good hour and a half of hour before Mass, the sacraments if I went the day before,” Duran and her husband, Mike, remain people live week-to-week on the confession every night.” are brought out of the chapel and said. “I feel at home whenever I parishioners there, despite their Sunday Eucharist, the Church it- The parish also offers put in the church for an hour of go there.” 10 years living in Ankeny. The self comes together every day so confession Saturday evenings at 4 adoration,” he continued. “And Diane Stringer said she pair typically attend Mass at least that ‘from the rising of the sun p.m. before their 5 o’clock Mass so what happens in the chapel is attends Mass as often as possible. five times a week. unto its setting a pure sacrifice and again on Sundays at 4:30 p.m just an extension of what happens “I’m really happy and “My husband and I are may be offered to your name.’ after the Spanish Mass. at Mass.” grateful to have all the 5:30 Mass- very fortunate in many, many re- “Having Mass available Attendance at the adora- The response to the new es,” Stringer said. “It’s really spects of our lives,” Mathis said. daily, and having Mass available tion chapel has also been up. schedule has been positive. great for those of us in the work- “And we just feel it’s a wonderful in as convenient a way as reason- “We wanted to draw a “People really like the force that can’t go to morning way to give thanks to God.” ably possible for the largest num- clear connection between Mass idea of having Mass and confes- Mass, and so this is like a dream ber of people, is a serious obliga- celebrated as a whole and the sion every day,” Father McManus come true.” tion on the part of the Church,” adoration chapel,” Father Mc- said, noting that he likes the idea Debbie Mathis was born he continued. “Of course, the lo- Manus said. “So at the end of the of planning strategically with and raised at Christ the King. She 8 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 Shepherding the Faithful Support is critical for priests of diocese – part of the deal is very appreciative and By Kelly Mescher Collins offering a pension to thankful for the ADA Staff Writer them,” he said. so they can care for Many peo- themselves well into Give online at ple may not realize their retirement and Contributions to the An- our retired priests not become a burden dmdiocese.org/giving nual Diocesan Appeal are used to continue to serve, in other ways,” Father support active and retired mem- despite their “re- Hoffmann said. bers of the clergy. tired” status, he add- Most people The Diocese of Des ed. work for many years Moines pays 100 percent of the “We really to enjoy the last few health care premiums for all ac- rely on our retired in the comfort of re- tive and retired priests – an ex- priests for help with Father Ed Hurley tirement. In the case of pense of more than $700,000 per coverage,” Monsi- our priests, they work year. About half of the $700,000 gnor Hurley said. until they are 70 if their comes from the Diocesan Priests’ “Most of them are pretty darn health remains good. Medical Endowment Fund and busy doing coverage. If you’re the remainder of the expense is halfway healthy, you’re busy. Please prayerfully consider a gift covered by the ADA. The parishes still rely on you for to the ADA to support our priests An additional $60,000 is help.” in active and retired ministry to- set aside for the Priests Pension Father Larry Hoffmann, Fund from the ADA. The Priests co-vicar for retired priests, said day. A growing number of aging Pension Fund supports the finan- the retired priests’ current way of priests in our diocese require cial needs of 34 retired priests and life would not be possible without additional funding to ensure the two retired bishops of the diocese. the generous support of the peo- Priests Pension Fund and Priests’ Retired priest Monsi- ple of the Diocese of Des Moines. Medical Endowment Fund can gnor Ed Hurley, who serves as Priests would be in financial trou- meet the full need into the future. vicar of finance for the Diocese of ble without the assistance of the Des Moines, said it’s extremely ADA and other generous donors. Please also prayerfully consider important to support our retired “Without help with the a bequest or beneficiary desig- priests. cost of healthcare and without the nation for one or both of these “These guys work 50 pension, Social Security wouldn’t funds. years serving our faith communi- begin to cover the costs of hardly Father Ken Gross and Father Bob Schoemann enjoy ty and they deserve to retire and any of those things,” he said. retirement while helping parishes and various ministries. have their needs taken care of “The retired priests are

Helping People in Need Catholic Charities earmarks ADA funds for operation costs not covered by grants Catholic Charities, with ment, and more. tions. the valuable assistance of the “In all of the diocese’s “The Annual Diocesan Annual Diocesan Appeal, helped 23 counties, we are either pro- Appeal makes a difference in 25,000 people in 2019 through its viding direct support or working covering those costs that aren’t mission of empowering individu- with very generous people who otherwise covered by specific als and strengthening families. want to offer donations to those grant program funding,” said Deb Catholic Charities in need,” said Dr. Barbara Deck- Powers, development director for serves our most vulnerable er, executive director of Catholic Catholic Charities. neighbors in their time of greatest Charities in the Des Moines dio- The diocese was the need. It is through the generosity cese. largest individual donor to Cath- of others that Catholic Charities Grants and donations olic Charities last fiscal year. The can provide this help. are often earmarked for specific funding provided about 7.2 per- Forty-eight percent of outreach efforts. With this fund- cent of the Catholic Charities’ Catholic Charities funding comes raising going to direct client ser- annual budget. from individuals and matching vice, how does Catholic Charities “In the future, we hope company dollars. pay for the administrative costs to leverage this funding for Catholic Charities has associated with offering these matching dollars in our grant re- five programs covering a wide services? quests,” Powers said. “By sup- range of services. They provide This is where the Di- porting the Annual Diocesan A long line stretches around the shelves of food at the care and advocacy for victims of ocese of Des Moines comes in. Appeal, we can have a hand in Catholic Charities outreach center in Des Moines. Gifts to sexual abuse and domestic vio- With a gift from the ADA, Cath- supporting the ministry of Cath- the Annual Diocesan Appeal help those served by Catholic lence, professional counseling, olic Charities receives funds that olic Charities to those who need Charities. shelter, food, refugee resettle- can be directly applied to opera- our help.”

Your contribution to the Annual Diocesan Appeal makes an impact!

11,000 Catholic Schools with 112 35,000 professional training, children encounter Christ in 36 19 Deacons and candidates with SHEPHERDING ENCOUNTERING households receive the Good 17 supervision and oversight retired priests with medical priests with training, education and support parish faith formation News in The Catholic Mirror care and retirement income THE FAITHFUL CHRIST US Citizenship seminarians with and immigration 52 supporting ministries that bring the Good 400 1,533 1,761 THIS IS YOUR formation and services active priests with medical engaged couples undergoing Confirmands sealed with new members of the faith tuition expenses our faith leaders News of Jesus Christ to all 15 insurance provided exclusive- marriage preparation the gifts of the Holy Spirit through Baptism FAITH ly by the Diocese PEOPLE $115,000 80 25,000 21,000 parishes with ministry IN NEED in local flood relief grants employees and volunteers undergo screening and HELPING individuals 175 IN ACTION and administrative services SUPPORTING ministries that open the refugees resettled training to ensure a safe environment for our children LOCAL COMMUNITIES OF FAITH as members of the door for people to receive served by Catholic hospitals offering Body of Christ Mass, Communion and 40,000 supporting parishes/ Visit dmdiocese.org/giving for more Catholic Charities Anointing of the Sick 1,765 Hispanic Catholics with God’s mercy 4 organizations employees with managed benefit plans outreach and ministry needs information on the ADA and charitable giving. www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 9

Encountering Christ Youngest among us are contributing to the ADA

“Amanda was listening to his sacrament of confirmation at Sacred By Kelly Mescher Collins messages and decided that’s what she Heart in just a few years,” Bishop Jo- Staff Writer wanted to do,” Jill said. “She wanted ensen concluded. to help whoever it could.” The entire Kinnison family Her good deed did not go un- was excited about the personal note When Father Chris noticed. In fact, she received a letter from Bishop Joensen. Hartshorn encouraged his congrega- of gratitude from Bishop William Jo- “We felt like it was a big tion to give to the annual diocesan ensen. honor that she received the letter and appeal at Sacred Heart Parish in West “Your donation will help we actually showed it to grandparents, Des Moines last fall, even the smallest your parish and me tell the people of too,” Jill said. of ears were listening. southwest Iowa about Jesus!” Bishop The letter from our bishop Jill Kinnison was at Mass Joensen wrote. “Thank you for acting meant “a lot – because I’m on the path that day with her 10-year-old daugh- as a good steward of the gifts God has to being a saint,” Amanda said. ter, Amanda, who was keenly attuned given you and for recognizing them at “I liked it,” Amanda added. to his message. your young age of ten. God takes de- “It felt good.” “I went into the pitch about light in you! Father Hartshorn said he’s the appeal and all of the areas it im- “My prayer is that you con- constantly amazed by the generosity pacts – vocations, health care for tinue to learn about your faith and of others – including the youngest of priests, Catholic Charities and helping share it with others through acts of donors. those in need,” Father Hartshorn said. charity and service. You are meant to “When you present the need “We can’t do it ourselves and we need be a saint, Amanda, and your parents, and the solid case of what we need to support the diocese and Catholic school teachers, and pastor will help and why we need it, [I’m amazed] Charities to do what we do.” you become one,” Bishop Joensen at how generous people are,” Father Hearing that a portion of continued in his letter. Hartshorn said. “And it’s beautiful the funds collected through the ADA “The saints in heaven, espe- that a young person responded in that went to Catholic Charities, which sup- cially our Blessed Mother, Mary, will way. It’s a beautiful sign for all of us Ten-year old Amanda Kinnison of Sacred ports some of the most vulnerable in also help you, and I encourage you to and what we are called to do as disci- Heart Parish in West Des Moines received our diocese, prompted Amanda to act. pray to them often. I look forward to ples of Jesus.” a letter of gratitude from Bishop William Jo- She donated her own $5 to when I can join you in celebrating the help. ensen for her ADA donation. Supporting Local Communities of Faith St. Patrick in Council Bluffs surpasses ADA goals also includes classroom spaces news for our St. Patrick commu- By Kelly Mescher Collins and meeting rooms. We have nity, because it shows how deeply Staff Writer positioned St. Patrick’s Parish to our parishioners are committed to be able to thrive for decades to their Catholic faith,” Hecker con- St. Patrick Parish in come.” tinued. “I think it also shows how Council Bluffs recently surpassed Parish support has al- much our parishioners appreciate its goals for the Annual Diocesan ways been high, but this year was what the Diocese of Des Moines Appeal, leaving the parish with an exceptional. does for us and how much value unexpected windfall of $12,000. “I believe the ADA was they provide our parish.” The money will be used successful due to the strong mo- The parish was regularly to help pay down the loan on the mentum created when we moved encouraged to give to the ADA, construction of a new church. to our new church building,” which assists in educating our “This is kind of ‘unex- Gronstal added. “Our member- seminarians, caring for our retired pected’ money that we would not ship has seen a strong increase priests as well as assisting those necessarily expect to be receiving and we now have approximately in need. anyway,” said Darin Hecker, the 1,000 families.” “I am certain that the parish manager. “I also think that Parishioners have em- weekly announcements and en- our parishioners appreciate the braced the quick and convenient couragement from our priests pay-down of the building loan.” online giving option, Hecker add- help with the donations,” Hecker Matt Gronstal, chair of St. Patrick Parish in Council Bluffs recently had a ed. said. $12,000 surplus after surpassing its ADA goal. The par- the finance council, said the new Gronstal also credits Parishioners also know church has been extremely posi- ish has used the money to pay down the construction the strong leadership of Father and expect the ADA appeal each loan on a new worship center. tive for the St. Patrick communi- Glen Wilwerding and now Father year, and plan their donations ac- ty. James Ahenkora. cordingly, Hecker added. said. “It truly amazes and inspires they still dig deep into their pock- “Our new church is a The outpouring of sup- “I think that our parish is me how, even with the commit- ets and continue to support the beautiful new worship site with port for the ADA is extremely so successful every year because ment that our parishioners have ADA.” plenty of parking and a wonder- positive, Hecker added. they do understand what the dio- made to our capital campaign, ful parish hall,” he continued. “It “I think that this is good cese does for our parish,” Hecker

Your contribution to the Annual Diocesan Appeal makes an impact!

11,000 Catholic Schools with 112 35,000 professional training, children encounter Christ in 36 19 Deacons and candidates with SHEPHERDING ENCOUNTERING households receive the Good 17 supervision and oversight retired priests with medical priests with training, education and support parish faith formation News in The Catholic Mirror care and retirement income THE FAITHFUL CHRIST US Citizenship seminarians with and immigration 52 supporting ministries that bring the Good 400 1,533 1,761 THIS IS YOUR formation and services active priests with medical engaged couples undergoing Confirmands sealed with new members of the faith tuition expenses our faith leaders News of Jesus Christ to all 15 insurance provided exclusive- marriage preparation the gifts of the Holy Spirit through Baptism FAITH ly by the Diocese PEOPLE $115,000 80 25,000 21,000 parishes with ministry IN NEED in local flood relief grants employees and volunteers undergo screening and HELPING individuals 175 IN ACTION and administrative services SUPPORTING ministries that open the refugees resettled training to ensure a safe environment for our children LOCAL COMMUNITIES OF FAITH as members of the door for people to receive served by Catholic hospitals offering Body of Christ Mass, Communion and 40,000 supporting parishes/ Visit dmdiocese.org/giving for more Catholic Charities Anointing of the Sick 1,765 Hispanic Catholics with God’s mercy 4 organizations employees with managed benefit plans outreach and ministry needs information on the ADA and charitable giving. 10 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020

Celebrating Catholic Schools Week

Photo by Chelsea Krastel Photo by Anne Marie Cox Bishop William Joensen celebrated Catholic Schools Week Mass at St. Joseph middle school students packed food at Meals from the Heart- St. Albert Catholic School in Council Bluffs. land as a service project during Catholic Schools Week. They are: Michael Thacker, Richelle Dolores, Grace Meeves, Abby Flaherty, Denise Sanchez, Addison Schaefer, Melissa Marin, Kaelynn Jay, Karla Contreras.

Photo by Kelly Mescher Collins Photo by Kelly Mescher Collins Bishop Joensen receives the gifts from Ally Anderson, Erin Bishop Joensen and Superintendent of Schools Donna Bishop (far right) con- Kleppe and teacher Nick Spike during the Catholic Schools gratulated Catholic teachers and administrators with milestone anniversaries, Week Mass at Dowling Catholic High School in West Des including this group celebrating 35 years. They are Maureen Dempsey of Sacred Moines. Heart; Becky Johnson of Christ the King; Jane Brown of St. Augustin and Mau- reen Casey of St. Augustin.

Randy Ballard Controls Division

5636 NE 17th St. Des Moines, IA 50313-1616 (515) 288-1450 Fax: (515) 288-4121 [email protected] Cell: (515) 249-1676

"THIS TRULY WAS THE VERY BEST TIME OF OUR LIVES." -DARLENE S. IOWA ROME & ASSISI AUG. 31–SEPT. 9, 2020 WITH JON LEONETTI AND FR. SCOTT BULLOCK

www.PilgrimageToRome.com

Reach 35,000 households by placing an ad in The Catholic Mirror.

Contact Kelly at [email protected] or call 515-237-5054 to learn more. www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 11 Bishop prays for mutual respect, the common good during legislative invocation Bishop William Joensen offered the following prayer before legisla- tors on Feb. 11. Creative, compassionate God:

You bring order and abundance out of chaos.

You speak your Word to us, who bears wisdom, healing, freedom, and renewed hope for those who seek justice and the way of peace together.

Stir your Spirit and release your grace from the heavens upon this assembly of legislators.

May they embrace the charge extended to them by the people of Iowa with humility, integrity, and zeal for the common good.

May they use words to reveal truth, rather than conceal it.

May they engender mutual respect to the extent that they can ardently disagree, yet not dismiss or denigrate their colleagues or opponents.

May the rule of law and the intentions of this State’s and this Nation’s founders be a yoke they wear worthily, aided by your inspiration and Photo by Anne Marie Cox steadfast assistance. Bishop William Joensen offered the opening prayer at the Iowa House and Senate on Feb. 11. The four bishops of Iowa, through the Iowa Catholic Conference, gathered at the May we enjoy good humor so that we take our duties, and not our- statehouse to talk with legislators. selves, seriously. Update on proposed legislation And at the end of the day, may we entrust all that are able to achieve and all that remains to be completed to your Divine Providence, so and must give six months’ notice Tom Chapman is the executive di- that we may take your blessings home with us for reflection and rest, By Tom Chapman for rate increases. The ICC will be rector of the Iowa Catholic Con- Contributing Writer abiding with you who are Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, always and working in support of the bills. ference. forever. Amen. House Joint Resolution There is a blizzard of 14, supported by the Iowa Catho- subcommittee and committee lic Conference, would amend the meetings taking place at the State The Diocesan Celebration of Iowa Constitution to restore vot- Capitol as legislators rush to push ing rights of Iowans with felony through their bills. convictions. Divine Mercy Sunday This Friday, Feb. 21, is the first legislative deadline where Sunday, April 19th SHOW YOUR SUPPORT non-budget or tax-related bills Several bills supported Christ the King Catholic Church must be passed out of committee by the ICC passed out of subcom- 5711 S.W. 9th Street to avoid being set aside. mittee last week. The Iowa Reli- One positive we’ve no- gious Freedom Restoration Act, ticed this session is the comeback Sacrament of Reconciliation: 2:00 p.m. Senate File 508 passed out of sub- of bills sponsored by members of committee last week. Divine Mercy Chaplet: 3:00 p.m. both parties. They have been near- Mass 3:30 p.m. celebrated by ly non-existent during the past UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE decade, but this year we’ve seen Bishop William M. Joensen STATE CAPITOL bipartisan bills related to mobile • Feb. 25 from 8 a.m. to noon, Refreshments after Mass in the Parish Hall home regulation and a tax exemp- Anti-Hunger Day at the Capitol tion for food banks. • Feb 25 Refugee Day On The Sponsored by Divine Mercy Des Moines Hill PROTECT LIFE AMENDMENT For more information visit our website • March 2 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., The “Protect Life” con- Iowa Prayer Rally for Life www.divinemercydesmoines.com stitutional amendment to clarify that Iowa’s constitution does not contain a right to abortion, Sen- ate Joint Resolution 2001, passed the Senate on Thursday by a par- ty-line vote of 32-18. The amend- ment does not ban any abortion. The House version of the amendment, House Study Bill 577, passed the House Judiciary Committee on Feb. 12. Opponents have requested that a public hear- ing on the bill take place before a House vote. We’ll keep you post- ed.

OTHER INITIATIVES TO HELP “Middendorf Insurance cares about protecting THOSE ON THE MARGINS As mentioned earlier, your family and assets if the unexpected occurs. bipartisan bills have been in- troduced (Senate File 2238 and House File 2351) to address pro- Our goal is to exceed your expectations.” tections for mobile home resi- dents. They don’t have the same rights that other renters do. These Visit our website: bills were crafted to address re- cent situations where out of state www.middendorfins.com companies bought up mobile home parks and drastically in- 515-252-1414 creased the rent on the lots. Many residents faced eviction. Trent and Jim Middendorf A subcommittee of the House Judiciary Committee is Middendorf Insurance Associates scheduled to meet this afternoon (Monday) to consider their bill. Members of St. Francis Parish Key parts of the legislation re- in West Des Moines. quire that landlords must have “legitimate grounds” for eviction 12 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 Parishes share ideas for bringing people closer to Jesus

By Anne Marie Cox “There should be con- told about 50 people at the Staff Writer version” and not just involvement workshop. “But if our par- in a parish, he said. “No one is ents are involved and there There once was a parish outside the reach of conversion.” isn’t much underneath to council that gathered in a circle Quinlan is on a mission stand on, it’s seed sewn in after every meeting to pray the to persuade leadership to pursue thin soil. Our Father. pastoral renewal and evangeliza- “I really do think Instead of facing in, tion. our goal needs to be reca- though, they face outward while The Feb. 11 workshop librated. If we rethink in- holding hands and praying. for parish leaders, which will be volvement to conversion “Now doesn’t that sound repeated on April 30 at All Saints and then involvement, it hokey? So ’70s, right? But what Parish in Des Moines, was one will be more deeper and were they saying about them- step toward his goal. Another is more meaningful,” he said. selves?” asked Tom Quinlan, the reviving a formation program Then he posed new director of the St. Joseph through Creighton University for this question: “Do people Educational Center. “They were future parish leadership. believe their way into be- saying to themselves, ‘We are not Quinlan arrived in Des longing or belong their way about ourselves. We are not insu- Moines last summer, and brings into believing?” lar. We are not going to be an en- years of parish and diocesan lead- “The answer,” he clave.’ ership to the metro area parishes said, “is ‘Yes. Both.’ There “There’s nothing about he serves. He also brings stories are many doors to the king- the gospel that says, ‘Go forth he’s picked up from around the dom of God.” There are and become a closed system,’” country that illustrate the need people who are persuaded he added. “It’s open, so this idea for ongoing conversion and faith by the Catholic system of is that our mission is to the whole growth. thought and doctors of the world, not to ourselves.” In San Diego last month, Church. Photo by Anne Marie Cox Quinlan used this exam- he asked faith leaders what they “Now, I think Tom Quinlan, executive director of the St. Joseph Educational Cen- ple as he encouraged parish staff needed from parents. more people tend to come ter in West Des Moines, is encouraging parishes to share what’s and leadership at a recent work- Involvement, they said. through relationships, working in their communities to foster deeper growth in faith. shop to help those in parishes and “I said, ‘How about through their heart,” he news of Jesus.” well in other communities. outside parishes build a personal conversion?’ We often think of continued. “Sometimes it’s The responsibility of For information on the relationship with God. For those involvement. We act as if that’s through a spouse. Sometimes a evangelizing belongs to everyone, second parish leadership work- who have such a relationship, the end goal: They come to Mass neighbor. Often, it’s relationship he said. A step toward finding cre- shop on renewal and evangeliza- they could deepen it. and sign up for ministries,” he that wins people over to the good ative ways to foster conversion is tion, or the Certificate in Theolo- to take advantage of workshops gy and Ministry cosponsored by and opportunities to get out of SJEC and Creighton University, parish silos to see what’s working contact sjeciowa.org.

Greece and the Greek Isles In the Steps of St. Paul, the Apostle 11 days: November 3-13, 2020 hosted by Rev. Robert E. Harris All Saints Catholic Church

Visiting: Athens, Corinth, Mykonos, Ephesus, Patmos, Crete, Santorini, Delphi, Kalambaka, Thessaloniki $3899 PER PERSON FROM DES MOINES (Air/land tour price is $3459 plus $440 government taxes/airline surcharges)

For information & a brochure, contact: Fr. Robert Harris: 515-265-5001 ext. 202 / Email: [email protected]

SPACE IS LIMITED AT THIS SPECIAL PRICE!!

$1 OFF ADM. wITH THIS AD A FANTASTIC SHOPPING EVENT IOWA’S LARGEST

Over Exh300 ibi ARTS tors & Crafts SHOW March 6-8 ADM. Just $6.00 VARIED INDUSTRIES BLDG. (10 & under free) IOWA STATE FAIRGROUNDS FREE PARKING - Free DES MOINES, IOWA Shuttle Bus Service from North Parking Lot on Fri. 5-9; Sat. 9-5; Sun. 10-4 Both Friday & Saturday. "Where You Can Buy That Quality, Handmade Product At An Affordable Price." Garden Art, Oak Furniture, Paintings, Ceramics, Jewelry, Metal Art Sculptures, Pet Products, Etched & Stained Glass, Yard Art, Pottery, Blown Glass, Candles, Clothing, Floral Wreaths, Toys & Dolls, Baskets, Rugs, Glassware, Purses, Ornaments, Food and Many More Original Products. All Handmade by the exhibitor.

To Purchase Discounted Advance Tickets and For A Chance To Win $50 Gift Certificates, Visit Our Facebook Page at Callahan Promotions, Inc. - 563-652-4529 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 13 Chaplain puts trust in God’s providence

chaplain, celebrating Mass and By Anne Marie Cox reconciliation, offering spiritu- Staff Writer al advice and being a presence among the students. He can be One afternoon, Father found eating lunch with students, Augustin Clement Owusu, a for- joining in a choir rehearsal, and mer pastor and spiritual director helping during sports practices in in Ghana, received a call from his the gym. bishop asking for his email ad- “Father Clement’s pas- dress. toral care is present in how much The next day, the Di- he prays for our students,” said ocese of Des Moines sent him Katie Grudle, director of Mission information that would start the and Student Life at St. Albert ball rolling on immigration pa- School. “I have witnessed him perwork so that he could be a deep in prayer at school and on missionary to St. Albert School in the Kairos retreat. He is also a Council Bluffs. kind individual who cares for our “I had no idea where I students whether he is inviting was going. It’s my first time in the students to daily Mass, helping United States. But I trust God’s with lunch, or watching a wres- Father Augustin Clement Owusu joined St. Albert Catholic School last year. It’s his first providence,” he said. tling match. Plus, his laugh is in- time in the United States. He arrived last Sept. 21 fectious!” up in a strong Catholic home. Catholic. He has three cousins in three years before being assigned and since then has served as a Father Clement grew His parents and grandparents are the seminary and a cousin who to a Marian grotto, where people was ordained a priest in 2010. go for retreats and spiritual direc- “We grew up around the tion as they seek the face of God. National group of African priests, religious women holy rosary. We attended holy He served the retreat center for Mass every day,” he said. three years before being assigned coming to Des Moines in July for support, learning An international priest to the Diocese of Des Moines. serving his childhood parish Here, he found a small African priests and religious women who are invited to see the richness of several African inspired Father Clement and community of priests from his are serving Catholics across the United States will cultures expressed in the liturgy. Originally of Ni- sparked in him an interest in a vo- home country who also are mis- gather in Des Moines July 22-25 for mutual sup- geria, Father Enelichi is a member of the Mission- cation to the priesthood. sionary priests: Father Dominic port and to learn from each other. ary Society of St. Paul and serves in the Diocese of “He served the people so Assim, of Assumption Parish in Formed in 2004 by the U.S. bishops, the Great Falls, Montana. well. He had the people at heart,” Granger; Father Samuel Dan- African Conference of Catholic Clergy and Reli- He estimates about 200 will come from said Father Clement. so, of Sacred Heart in Chariton, gious in the United States supports the mission- every corner of the United States for the conven- “When I grew up, I was St. Francis in Corydon and St. ary priests and religious women who come to the tion. so fascinated by him: his selfless- Brendan in Leon; Father Francis United States to serve or study. Locally, there are 19 priests of the 71 in ness, his commitment to God’s Amoako, a chaplain at Mercy “International priests serving in the dio- active ministry in the Des Moines Dioese who people, and the love he showed. Medical Center; Father Raphael cese gain pastoral experience in a setting some- were born in Africa. Another, Father Felix Onuora, So, I desired to be like him. I left Assamah, of St. Mary in Shenan- what different from their prior experience and retired in central Iowa. my family and comfort to be with doah and St. Mary in Hamburg; provide significant assistance to the diocese in Locally, there are seven religious wom- the people of God,” said Father Father James Ahenkora, of St. meeting the needs of the faithful,” according to the en from Africa serving in the Des Moines diocese. Clement. Patrick in Council Bluffs; and Fa- Des Moines diocesan quinquennial report issued They serve at St. Gregory Retreat Center in Adair After ordination in 2011, ther Philip Yaw Bempong, of St. last year. and MercyOne in Des Moines. Father served as an associate pas- John in Greenfield and St. Patrick Conference president Father Alphonsus For more information on ACCCRUS, go tor for one year and a pastor for in Massena. Enelichi invites all Catholics of the Des Moines to ACCCRUS.org. diocese to come to the closing Mass July 24. All 14 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 International news briefs Happy New Year! Hong Kong diocese cancels Masses to prevent spread of virus HONG KONG (CNS) -- The threat of the epidemic, now called COVID-19, has wors- spreading the coronavirus has forced Catholic offi- ened in China against the prediction of experts. It cials in Hong Kong to suspend all church programs has claimed more than 1,300 lives, with more than Feb. 15-28, including Sunday Masses and the Ash 60,000 confirmed cases as of Feb. 13, mostly in Chi- Wednesday liturgy that marks the beginning of Lent. na. Ucanews.com reported Cardinal John Hong Kong, which has open borders with Tong, apostolic administrator of Hong Kong, said China, has reported 50 confirmed cases and one the “disappointing” decision had been made “be- death. The densely populated Hong Kong city-state cause the next two weeks will be a crucial time to of 7.4 million people is on high alert to check the vi- suppress the epidemic.” rus, as thousands have crossed over from mainland “Some church members may be disap- China to avoid the infection, ucanews.com reported. pointed” with the diocesan move, the cardinal said “At this difficult time,” Catholics must in his Feb. 13 pastoral letter. “This is not an easy “deepen our trust in God and implement our Chris- decision.” tian love for our neighbors and all people,” the car- The move comes amid global fears that dinal’s message said. Pope: Knights’ generous help counters culture of indifference VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Francis assist young people in Rome following World War I.

Photo by Anne Marie Cox praised the Knights of Columbus for their charita- By opening educational and aid centers ble efforts and thanked them especially for helping in the city, “your order proved faithful to the vi- Bishop William Joensen celebrated the Vietnamese New Christians in the Middle East. sion of your founder, Venerable (Father) Michael Year, also known as Tet, with St. Peter Vietnamese Catholic “I thank all the members of your order for McGivney, who was inspired by the principles of Community in Des Moines on Jan. 26. He was invited by seeing in our persecuted and displaced brothers and Christian charity and fraternity to assist those most Father Ly Chu to take a scroll, which had a biblical verse sisters of that region neighbors, for whom you are in need,” Pope Francis said. intended to guide him through the new year. a sign of God’s infinite love,” he said in an address The pope recognized the Knights’ ongoing Feb. 10 to members of this fraternal service organi- work of “evangelical charity and fraternity in a va- zation. riety of fields,” particularly “your faithful witness to A delegation led by Supreme Knight Carl the sacredness and dignity of human life, evident at A. Anderson and including the organization’s board both the local and national levels.” of directors was in Rome to celebrate the 100th an- That commitment to protect life has also niversary of their active presence in Rome. led the Knights to provide both material and spiritu- The Knights of Columbus was founded in al aid to “Christian communities in the Middle East the United States almost 140 years ago, and Pope that are suffering the effects of violence, war and Benedict XV asked if it could also work with and poverty.”

Fortaleciendo Nuestra Alegre la Mañana No Tengas Miedo 515.309.3536, 12345 University Ave., Clive, IA 50325 Fe La Reina 1260AM, Iowa Catholic Radio, La Reina 1260AM Lare- Thursdays at 10 a.m. Domingos 10:30 a.m. ina1260.com, Saturdays at noon La Hora de Christo Rey La Ley 105.5FM, Thursdays at noon

This lent, strengthen your faith by listening to

Iowa Catholic Radio!

With 11 local shows, along with nationally streamed broadcasts, we have everything you need to make this lent holier and more impactful!

Listen today on our local stations, our Iowa Catholic Radio App, or stream live on our website.

Don’t forget to download the Iowa Catholic Radio App from the Apple App store or Google Play.

For your support during our Spring Care-A-Thon!

With your support we are able to spread the Word of Christ Consejero sobre Asistencia de Víctimas through the airwaves! El Consejero sobre Asistencia de Víctimas es un empleado de Polk County Victim Services. Ella ayuda a víctimas de abuso sex- ual por parte del clero durante el proceso de la queja y buscando servicios de apoyo y consejería. Pueden comunicarse al 515-286- 2028 o en [email protected]. www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror February 21, 2020 15 Pope calls for action on horrors in Amazon loved Amazonia), Pope Francis seriously their responsibility to By Carol Glatz urged people to recognize how preserve the environment and re- Catholic News Service much injustice and cruelty has sources and to protect the rights taken place in the Amazon re- and cultures of all its citizens. VATICAN CITY (CNS) gion, and he pleaded for attention An unusual suggestion – Like so many of Pope Francis’ to “current forms of human ex- Pope Francis made in the docu- teachings and major documents, ploitation, abuse and killing.” ment was that people turn to poet- his apostolic exhortation on the Following in the foot- ry and delve into Amazonian sto- Amazon is built on a call for con- steps of “Laudato Si’,” his 2015 ries to discover how unique the version – a new way of seeing, encyclical on the environment, region is and to feel more deeply thinking and doing. the pope said people must ap- its importance. “We need to feel out- proach the Amazon aware that “Those poets, contem- rage,” he wrote, underlining his “everything is connected,” which platives and prophets help free concern that the world has be- means that care for people and us from the technocratic and con- come too indifferent, too numb care for ecosystems are insepara- sumerist paradigm that destroys or too much in denial about what ble. nature and robs us of a truly dig- is happening to the environment, In the document, re- nified existence,” he said. the world and the people in it. leased Feb. 12, he called on po- Poetry helps give voice In his apostolic exhor- litical leaders and governments in to beauty and to pain, he said, and tation “Querida Amazonia” (Be- the Amazon region to take more it should help wake people up to what is under threat. Reflection is needed to bring about the true conversion

needed to hear and respond to the CNS photo/ Ricardo Moraes, Reuters cry of the region’s people and the A wooden cross is seen in front of a Catholic church as a cry of the earth, he said. “From fire burns a tract of the Amazon jungle being cleared by log- the original peoples, we can learn gers and farmers near Porto Velho, Brazil, on Aug. 27, 2019. to contemplate the Amazon re- The Vatican released Pope Francis’ post-synodal apostolic gion and not simply analyze it, exhortation “Querida Amazonia” (Beloved Amazonia) on and thus appreciate this precious Feb. 12. mystery that transcends us.” The key to all of Pope ecology, one capable of bringing “We can love it, not sim- Francis’ appeals in the document about change, will not develop ply use it, with the result that love is to not “look at the world from unless people are changed, unless can awaken a deep and sincere without but from within, con- they are encouraged to opt for an- interest,” he wrote. “Even more, scious of the bonds with which other style of life, one less greedy CNS photo/ Paulo Santos, Reuters we can feel intimately a part of it the Father has linked us to all be- and more serene, more respectful Catholic pilgrims travel in a boat during an annual river pro- and not only defend it; then the cession and pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Conception ings.” and less anxious, more fraternal,” Amazon region will once more along Brazil’s Caraparu River in Santa Izabel do Para, in the “A sound and sustainable he said. become like a mother to us.” Amazon jungle on Dec. 8, 2012.

Victim Assistance Advocate Our caskets

The diocese’s Victim Assistance Advocate is a staff a05625 and urns are e99d23 member at Polk County Victim Services. He helps victims of sexual abuse of minors by clergy through a prayerfully complaint process and in seeking support and counseling services. He can be reached at made and blessed. 515-286-2024 or [email protected].

$1 OFF ADM. wITH THIS AD A FANTASTIC SHOPPING EVENT reverse white IOWA’S LARGEST

Over Exh300 ibi ARTS tors No other casket company & Crafts can make this claim. s Trappists, we make our caskets in prayer Aand hope to bring comfort during your time SHOW loss. Let us join you on your journey by provid- ing personal attention and answers to all your March 6-8 questions. ADM. Just $6.00 Call us now for an immediate need or visit our VARIED INDUSTRIES BLDG. (10 & under free) IOWA STATE FAIRGROUNDS FREE PARKING - Free website for future planning. Receive a keepsake DES MOINES, IOWA Shuttle Bus Service from North Parking Lot on cross with your request for our printed catalog. Fri. 5-9; Sat. 9-5; Sun. 10-4 Both Friday & Saturday. trappistcaskets.com • 888.433.6934 "Where You Can Buy That Quality, Handmade Product At An Affordable Price." Garden Art, Oak Furniture, Paintings, Ceramics, Jewelry, Metal Art Sculptures, Pet Products, Etched & Stained Glass, Yard Art, Pottery, Blown Glass, Candles, Clothing, Floral Wreaths, Toys & Dolls, Baskets, Rugs, Glassware, Purses, Ornaments, Food and Many More Original Products. All Handmade by the exhibitor.

To Purchase Discounted Advance Tickets and Blessed and prepared by the monks of New Melleray Abbey For A Chance To Win $50 Gift Certificates, Visit Our Facebook Page at Callahan Promotions, Inc. - 563-652-4529 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror DFebruary 21, 2020 DSM. Feb2020 9.75x15.25.qxp_Layout 1 1/28/20 10:37 AM Page 1

Make an impact bigger than yourself.

Knights around the world know that the chance to roll up our Why should someone in their 20s and 30s join the Knights of Columbus? sleeves and demonstrate our faith through service is as powerful as it As it turns out, participating actively at this transitional life stage is an is rewarding. Our goal is to provide you with news and information, excellent way to make lifelong friends who share your faith and values, personal and spiritual formation and a custom-built community that is become a part of your community and strengthened by the bonds of brotherhood. to build a professional and social network. We care about your membership experience and want it to continue. Make an impact bigger than yourself –  is includes but is not limited to: and build bonds of friendship and fraternity ■ ■ New Members College Councils Alumni that last a lifetime. Scan to learn more about the Knights ■ Military Councils Members ■ Former Squires ■ Parish Councils Members ■ Member Bene‚ ts

Rise Up and Share God’s Joy... Join the Knights of Columbus — visit www.kofc.org/joinus To Learn More www.iowakofc.org | Follow us on facebook/IowaKnightsOfColumbus and Facebook.com/caballerosdecoloniowa | on twitter.com/IAKnights

Walker Bormann Jeromy Brockelsby Derek Feller Dan Ginther Assistant General (402) 651-7613 (563) 357-7111 (515) 460-3411 Agent Council Bluffs, Grinnell, Colfax, Carlisle, Altoona, (563) 219-5800 Glenwood, Red Oak Newton and Elkhart and Eastern Iowa & Shenandoah Des Moines Des Moines

Peace of mind Donnie Kenkel Rob Ryan Pete Seuntjens Steve Tatz Be confident in the protection (712) 579-9066 (515) 490-8753 (712) 880-0044 (515) 201-6568 Council Bluffs, WDM, St. Francis Harlan, Earling, Serving you provide for your family. Missouri Valley, & Sacred Heart, Audubon, Dunlap Des Moines Atlantic & Avoca Grimes, Clive, & Logan Councils including Be confident in their future. Johnston & Ankeny Perry, Waukee & Urbandale

L I F E I N S U R A N C E • D I S A B I L I T Y I N C O M E I N S U R A N C E • L O N G - T E R M C A R E I N S U R A N C E • R E T I R E M E N T A N N U I T I E S Neil Pfeifer BORMANN AGENCY General Agent Mike Bormann Northeast Nebraska, General Agent Southwest and (563) 689-6801 West Central Iowa [email protected] 402-379-0180 [email protected]