Sooner Catholic Serving the People of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Volume 38, Number 1 * January 8, 2012 Catholic School Celebrates Christmas Spirit Students at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School, a family of 14 and a family of five experienced the true meaning of Christmas this year by participating in Catholic Charities Adopt-a-Family program. Sixth-grade teacher Valerie Lassiter and kinder- garten aide Margeaux Phipps coordi- nated a drive to provide Christmas gifts for a family of 14. With proceeds from a bake sale, a Jeans Day, and the generosity of the students and their families, in two short weeks the school community raised $1,100. After gifts were organized for this family, there was enough left over for the teachers to go back to Catholic Charities and receive a wish list for an additional family. Catholic Charities Adopt-a- Family program is in its 16th year. Four hundred households requested assistance this year, up from 287 in 2010. Executive Director Tim O’Connor said, “The sad reality is that the number of people living in poverty has grown larger than ever in recent years.” To meet this need, the teachers discussed adopting a family at a committee meeting, a suggestion approved by St. Charles Principal Todd Gungoll. “Jeans Day is an awesome thing because we’re always in uniform,” Lassiter said. Students brought a $1 donation for the privilege of wearing casual clothes to school. Phipps also organized a bake sale and raised continued on Page 4 St. Charles schoolchildren with the gifts they gathered to give to two families in need.

Inside Our Schools Set Open House To Celebrate Catholic Education 5-8 2 Sooner Catholic ● January 8, 2012 A Vision for Catholic Schools Sooner Catholic “Put out as Evangelizing Communities into the Most Reverend deep and Paul S. Coakley Later this month we will observe teaching and practice of the Catholic Archbishop of Oklahoma City Catholic Schools Week 2012 highlight- Church. Every student in our Catholic lower Publisher ing the excellence of our schools and schools, regardless of his or her faith your nets their irreplaceable contribution to the tradition, should be growing in their for a life and mission of the Church. The understanding and appreciation of Ray Dyer catch.” colorful insert in this issue of the what the teaches and Archbishop Editor Sooner Catholic focuses on this year’s believes. While we would never seek to Coakley Luke 5:4 theme, “Catholic Schools: Faith. impose our faith on anyone, we would Cara Koenig Academics. Service.” be failing in our own duty if we Why Catholic Schools? As neglected to propose the beauty, truth they must become financially sound Layout/Photographer/ was returning to the Father, he com- and goodness of the Gospel and our and at the same time find ways of Special Projects missioned his Apostles saying, “Go, Catholic faith in all its fullness. We providing assistance to those who otherwise cannot afford to attend a therefore, and make disciples of all ought to be eager to invite everyone to 7501 Northwest Expressway nations, baptizing them in the name of learn, to pray and to serve with us. Catholic school. This has always the Father, and of the Son, and of the In addition to welcoming children been our greatest challenge. It is Oklahoma City, OK 73132 Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe from other faith traditions, our a challenge that threatens the (405) 721-1810 Fax: (405) 721-5210 all that I have commanded you.” (Mt. Catholic schools ought to be striving continued existence of some of our e-mail: [email protected] 28:19-20). Forming children and youth always to be ever more inclusive of schools today. For this reason, it will Mailing Address: P.O. Box 32180 in the Catholic faith is a vital task for students from every social, economic remain one of our top goals. the Church if we are going to keep and ethnic background. We can be Our Catholic schools throughout Oklahoma City, OK 73123 faith with this missionary mandate. rightly proud of the way we incorpo- the United States and across Handing on the Catholic faith to rate the rich traditions of the various Oklahoma were built by the generous Visit us online through the young people is an essential part of cultures in our communities. stewardship of religious women and Archdiocesan Web Page at the Church’s mission to evangelize. In order for our Catholic schools to men, pastors and, of course, the Our Catholic schools, by virtue of the flourish, each and every school in the Catholic families who made tre- www.catharchdioceseokc.org. instruction, formation and witness Archdiocese ought to be committed to mendous sacrifices to provide Catholic that they provide, are a privileged increasing its enrollment. We cannot schools for their children and their The Sooner Catholic (USPS 066-910) is place of evangelization. The reason be satisfied with the status quo. neighbors’ children. The future of our published biweekly except for once in July we invest and sacrifice so much in Excellence in every aspect of our Catholic schools will depend on our support of our Catholic schools is for program — academic, faith formation, ability to rekindle that same spirit and twice in December by the Archdiocese the sake of this missionary mandate. worship and service — all contribute of stewardship and sacrifice. It is a of Oklahoma City. It is for the sake of evangelization. to a dynamic and growing school commitment that has to be shared. community.But each school also ought If our Catholic schools are going to The parents of Catholic schoolchildren The newspaper is not responsible for fulfill their proper task, however, they to have a student recruitment plan. cannot be left with the sole responsi- must be clearly and enthusiastically Every member of the school bility of shouldering the full cost of unsolicited material. Catholic. They must have a vibrant community should recognize their role Catholic education. For many that Copyright © 2012 Sooner Catholic and strong Catholic identity. Every- in growing the school’s enrollment, cost is simply too high. Catholic thing about our schools’ academic and especially among our Catholic schools are a part of the mission of the Subscription rate: $20 per year for all formation programs, including our families. whole Church. They are an expression approach to athletics and the arts, Finally, if our Catholic schools are of the parish’s mission as an evangel- who are not members of the ought to be grounded in the authentic going to fulfill their proper mission, izing community. Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma Archbishop Coakley’s Calendar City, OK 73125. The following events are part of Archbishop Coakley’s official calendar. POSTMASTER: Send address changes January 8 - Mass at Church of the Epiphany of the Lord, 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. January 10 - Archdiocesan Department Head Meeting, Catholic Pastoral Center, 10 a.m. to the Sooner Catholic, P.O. Box January 11 - Archdiocesan Priests Council Meeting, Catholic Pastoral Center, 9:30 a.m. 32180, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. January 13 - 10th Anniversary Mass and Celebration, St. Ann Retirement Center, 9:30 a.m. January 15 - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Mass, Corpus Christi Church, 11 a.m. January 15 - Mass for Filipino Feast of Beloved Infant Jesus, Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 4 p.m. January 17 - Mass, Catholic Pastoral Center, 11:30 a.m. January 17 - Archdiocesan Finance Council Meeting, Catholic Pastoral Center, 2 p.m. January 17 - Archdiocesan Review Board Meeting, Catholic Pastoral Center, 3 p.m. January 18 - Mass and classroom visits, St. Joseph School, Enid, 8:30 a.m. January 18 - Archdiocesan Personnel Board Meeting, Catholic Pastoral Center, 1 p.m. January 18 - Sanctity of Life Mass, Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 6 p.m. The Sooner Catholic is January 19 - Mass and classroom visits, Peter and Paul School, Kingfisher, 8:30 a.m. supported through the January 20 - Mass and classroom visits, Sacred Heart School, 8:15 a.m. Archdiocesan Development Fund. January 21 - TET Mass and Celebration, St. Andrew Dung-Lac Church, 10 a.m. January 22 - TET Mass and Celebration, Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 11:45 a.m. January 22 - Week of Prayer for Unity Service, St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, 5 p.m. January 8, 2012 ● Sooner Catholic 3

Monday, February 6, 7 to 8 p.m. Meetings to Explain Diaconate OKLAHOMA CITY — Francis of Assisi Church, 1901 NW 18th Street The office of the Permanent Diaconate for the Deacons do not take the place of a priest. Archdiocese of Oklahoma City will start a new Deacons are ordained to serve the people of the Tuesday, February 7, 7 to 8 p.m. deacon formation class in the fall of 2013. Those Archdiocese. DUNCAN — Assumption of the Blessed Virgin who believe they are called to serve beyond their The deacon receives the sacrament of holy Mary Church, 711 Hickory Avenue current role within the parish may want to explore orders, but in most cases does not function in the the Permanent Diaconate. order as his full-time occupation. A deacon must Wednesday, February 8, 7 to 8 p.m. There are many misconceptions about the role support himself and his family in a normal job. NORMAN — Saint Mark the Evangelist Church, of a deacon in the Church. A deacon’s primary role The deacon dedicates 10 to 12 hours each week to 3939 W. Tecumseh Road is a ministry of service, liturgy and word. Today in the work of the church. our Archdiocese, there are more than 80 active Who is called to serve the universal church in Thursday, February 9, 7 to 8 p.m. deacons. The deacons serve as prison chaplains, the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City? An applicant ELK CITY — Saint Matthew Church, 3001 E. hospital chaplains, parish financial administra- must be a male, between the ages of 35 and 60, a Highway 66 tors, directors of religious education, directors of member of the Roman Catholic Church for at least inquiry for the Catholic faith (RCIA) and work in five years, actively serving in your parish and Monday, February 13, 7 to 8 p.m. many areas of charity within the Archdiocese. either single or have been married for at least five ENID — Saint Church, 110 N. Deacons do marriage and baptism preparation, years. Madison Street baptize people, serve as the Church’s witness To better inform interested men of the life and to Catholic marriages, teach adult education, functions of a Permanent Deacon, information Wednesday, February 15, 7 to 8 p.m. plan and officiate at funerals, preside at meeting schedules are shown at right. If an ADA — Church, 1300 E. Beverly communion services in the absence of a priest, interested person cannot attend one of these meet- take communion to and visit the sick, shut-ins and ings, they may call the director, Deacon Max Thursday, February 16, 7 to 8 p.m. nursing home residents, and generally help with Schwarz, at (405) 263-4760. Applications can only OKLAHOMA CITY — Saint Eugene Catholic various functions within the parish and diocese. be acquired from your pastor. Church, 2400 W. Hefner Road

Archbishop to Address Christian Unity Service OFFICIAL The Oklahoma Alliance for president of the Oklahoma Liturgy and the Arts will present Alliance for Liturgy and the Arts, Archdiocese of Oklahoma City a prayer service to commemorate commented, “On the night of the the 2012 Week of Prayer for Last Supper, Jesus prayed for his CLERGY ASSIGNMENTS Christian Unity on Sunday, Jan. disciples, ‘that all may be one.’ 22 at 5 p.m. at St. Paul’s (John 17:21). Unfortunately, today Cathedral, 127 NW 7th St., all Christians are not united. The Effective January 13, 2012 Oklahoma City. All are invited. goal of the ‘Week of Prayer for The service will include Christian Unity’ is to pray for the Nguyen, Reverend Francis T. — Parochial Vicar, Epiphany music, prayer, sacred readings unity that Christ wills by what- of the Lord Church, Oklahoma City, and Judge on the First and presentations by two ever way He wills it.” speakers: The Most Reverend The international theme Instance Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Paul S. Coakley, Archbishop of chosen for the 2012 observance of Oklahoma City, and The Right the Week of Prayer is, “We will all Reverend Stephen Charleston, be changed by the victory of our Effective February 1, 2012 Interim Dean, St. Paul’s Lord Jesus Christ,” taken from Cathedral. St. Paul’s first letter to the This year marks the 103rd Corinthians, Chapter 15: 51-58. Lewis, Reverend William M. — Administrator, Holy Trinity annual observance of the Week of The mission of the Oklahoma Church, Okarche, and Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, Prayer, which began in 1908. The Alliance for Liturgy and the Arts, Calumet. week is actually eight days, a Christian not-for-profit inter- between Jan. 18 and 25, denominational organization, is Helbing, Reverend Brendan, O.S.B. — Parochial Vicar, originally incorporating Christian to enhance communal worship celebrations of St. Peter (Jan. 18) by promoting the visual and Sacred Heart Church, Oklahoma City. and St. Paul (Jan. 25). performing arts in Oklahoma Father Stephen Bird, churches. 4 Sooner Catholic ● January 8, 2012 ACCW Offers Bus To Rose Day Camp OLOG Registration OKLAHOMA CITY — Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women invites all Our mission is to nurture positive Catholic values in young people and women, men and students to attend Rose Day, the pro-life event held each year to provide campers a community of faith and fun in a safe environment. We at the Oklahoma state Capitol. Rose Day is set for Feb. 8. promote the personal and spiritual growth in each young person by de- “You are invited to join us for Mass before going to the state Capitol build- veloping their prayer life, social skills, independence and respect for others. ing,” said Brenda Arambula, ACCW president. There are many activities including crafts, hiking, swimming, (in- “The Mass is at 7:30 a.m. and will be at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 1901 ground pool), fishing, water sports, volleyball, canoeing, archery, scripture N.W. 18th. Following Mass, a light brunch will be served in the Kelley Room of adventures, talent show, soccer, campfires, drama and more! the Meerschaert House.” The meal is free, Arambula said. ACCW has charted a Catholic Summer Camp is for youth finishing third through 12th grade. bus to take participants to the Rose Day rally. The round-trip bus ride will be Camp begins with check-in between 5 and 6:30 p.m. on Sunday and ends on $15 per person. “At 9:30 we will load the reserved bus and leave the St. Francis Friday with check-out at 4 p.m. parking lot for the Capitol. The event begins at 11:30 a.m. TOTAL CAMP COST is $260 per person. Be sure to register early to “Attendance at Rose Day is an important way for Catholics to show their guarantee a place at camp. A $25 fee will be charged on cancellations. For love for the unborn child,” Arambula said. On this day red roses are presented a refund, a 72-hour notice is required before camp begins. Scholarship to state legislators as a symbol of the sanctity of life. The red rose also symbol- assistance is available. izes the participant’s pro-life stance and his or her desire that Oklahoma law- COST INCLUDES lodging, meals and snacks, camp T-shirt, insurance makers also support pro-life issues. and staff expenses. Those attending Rose Day are asked to bring four red roses with them to DEADLINES — Deposit of $135 due at registration, balance of $125 due the Capitol: one for the governor, one for lieutenant governor, one each for your two weeks before camp. state representative and senator. The schedule for Rose Day is as follows: For more information, contact the Office of Youth and Young Adult Sign in Ministry at (405) 721-9220 or (405) 721-5621 Ext. 115 or by email at j- Find out the room numbers of your state representative and senator [email protected]. Fill out cards asking the governor, lieutenant governor and the legislators to be pro-life advocates Visit office of the participant’s legislators and give out cards and roses. 2012 Summer Camp Registration Form We will then gather on the fourth floor of the Capitol building in the House Chamber for a pro-life program at 11 a.m. Additional seating and audio broad- (Please Print) Name: cast of the House chamber events will be available in the Senate chambers for the overflow crowds. The state legislators will be introduced to the audience, Address: after which the keynote speaker will be Abby Johnson, former director of Planned Parenthood. City / State/ Zip: For reservations, call Marti Frary at 373-4901 or June Hovorka at 608- 0232, and mail your check made out to ACCW for $15 to Marti Frary, ACCW Home # Treasurer, 114 3rd NE, Piedmont, Okla. 73078. Reserve your space as soon as possible. Invite a friend! Cell # (Mom/Guardian) Christmas Spirit Cell # (Dad/Guardian) continued from Page 1 Email: $357. Students discovered the power of the Holy Spirit and word of mouth as parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles and more pitched in and sent baked Parent / Guardian: goods, purchased gift cards and donated funds to supplement the students’ donations. The teachers were impressed and grateful for the generosity of Parish: School: each class and their families. “It was a tremendous response,” they said. Each of the 10 classrooms, from pre-K through eighth grade, adopted one Current Grade: Age: Gender:M F First Time Camper Yes No child from the large family, being given a first name, age and the require- ment that each child receive the same number of presents. The adults Shirt Size: received gift cards. Lassiter’s class had a wrapping party. She said that Youth: S M L Adult: S M L XL 2XL 3XL her students’ excitement was as real as if the presents were their own, with reactions like, “Oh wow, he’s really going to like this!” Another asked, “Are Camp Sessions: we going to do this again next year?” The class agreed they would like to Camp 1_____ June 10-15th Grades 6 & 7 participate every year. “What a hands-on, concrete way for them to live out Camp 2_____ June 17-22 Grades 4 & 5 Biblical principles,” she said. Camp 3_____ June 24-29 Grades 5 & 6 With money left over from the successful drive, the school also provided Camp 4_____ July 1-6 Grades 7, 8, 9 Christmas for a family of five. The gifts were taken to Catholic Charities and Camp 5 _____July 8-13 Grades 4 & 5 distributed to the families at Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Principal Camp 6 _____July 15-20 Grades 7 & 8 Gungoll said, “We should be very excited about helping these families and Camp 7 _____July 22-27 Grades 9,10,11,12 our response.” Send Registration and Deposit To: The Lord Jesus Himself said, “It is more blessed to (Make checks payable to the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City) give than to receive.” — Acts 20:35 Catholic Youth & Young Adult Office, P.O. Box 32180, OKC 73123 January 8, 2012 • Catholic Schools Week 1 Catholic Schools Excel in Faith, Academics and Service! and You’re Invited To See Why!

The theme for Catholic Schools Week 2012 is “Catholic Schools: Faith.Academics.Service.” Our Schools typically celebrate Catholic Schools Week with Masses, open houses and activities for students, fam- ilies, parishioners and the community at large.

The Catholic Schools Week 2012 theme focuses on three priori- ties that Catholic schools establish that make them stand out from other educational institutions. Children are taught faith – not just the basics of Christianity, but how to have a relationship with God. Academics, which in Catholic schools are held to a very high standard, help each child reach his or her potential. Service, the giving of one’s time and effort to help others is taught both as an expression of faith and good citizenship.

High academics, high parental involvement, low student-teacher ratios, and value-based education all lead to an outstanding education for students attending Catholic elementary and secondary schools. Good Shepherd Catholic As our nation’s Catholic schools celebrate “Catholic Schools Week,” please pray for our efforts and support them in whatever way you School at Mercy are able. If you are in an area of the archdiocese without a Catholic school, you can still pray and support us financially for the good of our The Catholic School System of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma faith. If you have school-age children, strongly consider sending them to City has a new, unique and exciting project! At the beginning of this one of our 22 Catholic schools. If you have school-age grandchildren, please consider helping offset the cost of tuition for their education. new school year, Fall of 2011, the Good Shepherd Catholic School at Strongly consider leaving a gift to a Catholic school in your will or estate. Mercy opened its doors for the first time. The school is a collaborative Wherever you live, whatever your vocation, wherever you went to school, project developed with the support of the Archdiocese, Mercy Hospital your Catholic schools in Oklahoma need your prayers and support! Not and the University of Central Oklahoma. just for the 5,000 currently enrolled, but for the generations to come! Good Shepherd Catholic School is specifically geared toward meeting the needs of children with autism spectrum disorders. At this time, the school has seven students, ranging in age from three to ten years old. The school hopes to be able to enroll up to twenty students. Each student has a behavioral interventionist who provides individual attention throughout the school day. Sister Catherine Powers, CND, Superintendent of Schools for the For more information Archdiocese comments, “The Archdiocese of Oklahoma City is very about enrolling your pleased to be a part of such an unprecedented and special collaboration. child in one of the This kind of three-way collaboration is indeed unique. However, what is Oklahoma Catholic even more special is that we do not know of any other Catholic school in schools, please call or the country that is geared toward meeting the individual needs of children visit the school of on the autistic spectrum. I have no doubt that we are meeting a great need your choice from the among our families in the Oklahoma City area and that God will bless list on the next page. The future is there! continue article on page 4 2 Catholic Schools Week • January 8, 2012 January 8, 2012 • Catholic Schools Week 3

22 - John Carroll 1 - St. Joseph School Catholic School Pre K - 8th Grade Pre K - 5th Grade 1100 NW 32nd St. • Oklahoma City, OK 110 N. Madison St. • Enid, OK 73701 73118 (580) 242-4449 • www.stfrancisenid.com (405) 525-0956 • www.bjcs.org Observation Days: by appointment Open House: Feb. 12, 2012, 11:30 - 1:30 pm Observation & Private Tours with the Principal by appointment

21 - Bishop McGuinness Catholic 2 - Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic School High School Pre K - 7th Grade 801 NW 50th St. • Oklahoma City, OK 73118 309 S. Main St. • Kingfisher, OK 73750 (405) 842-6638 • www.bmchs.org (405) 375-4616 • www..org Freshman Registration: Feb. 27 & 28, Observation Days: by appointment March 5, 2012 Observation: Parent observation is scheduled by appointment only

20 - Villa Teresa Catholic School 3 - Holy Trinity School Pre K - 4th Grade Pre 3 - 8th Grade 1216 Classen Dr. • Oklahoma City, OK 73103 Missouri & N. 2nd St. • Okarche, OK 73762 (405) 232-4286 • www.villateresaschool.com (405) 263-4422 • www.holytrinityok.org Open House: community neighbors open house Open House: March 4, 2:00-4:00 pm 11 February 1, 2012, 9:30 - 11:00 am and for Observation Days: by appointment 17 prospective and present families, April 14, 2012, 2:00 - 4:00 pm Observation: by appointment

15

1 ENID 4 - Sacred Heart School 19 - Sacred Heart Catholic School Pre 3 - 5th Grade Pre K - 8th Grade 11 - St. Mary School, Pre K - 8th Grade 16 210 S. Evans Ave. • El Reno, OK 73036 12 - St. Charles Borromeo 2700 S. Shartel Ave. (405) 262-2284 • www.elrenosacredheart.com 415 South 7th Street • Ponca City, OK 74601 Oklahoma City, OK 73109 (580) 765-4387 • Fax (580) 765-1352 Catholic School Open House: March 29, 2012, 4:00 - 6:00 pm Pre K - 8th Grade (405) 634-5673 • www.sacredheartokc.org Tours & Observation Days: www.stmarypc.k12.ok.us 5000 N. Grove Ave. • Oklahoma City, OK 73122 Open House: April 15, 2012, 12:00 - 2:00 pm anytime by appointment Open House: will be held in March 2012. (405) 789-0224 • www.sbcschool.org Observation: by appointment 10 21 KINGFISHER Interest parents please contact Open House: January 29, 2012, 12:30-1:30 pm 2 Allyson Helm at the School. Observation: by appointment 12

OKARCHE 3 22 EDMOND 5 - St. John Nepomuk School 6 18 - St. James the Greater Pre 3 - 8th Grade EL RENO 4 Catholic School YUKON 5 13 600 S. Garth Brooks Blvd. • Yukon, OK 73099 8 Pre 3 - 8th Grade (405) 354-2509 • www.sjnok.org 20 MIDWEST CITY 1224 SW 41st St. • Oklahoma City, OK 73109 Open House: Sunday, April 1, 2012, (405) 636-6810 • www.stjames-catholic.org 2:00-4:00 pm Open House: January 29, 2012 10:00 - 12:00 pm Observation Days: by appointment 7 Observation: by appointment NORMAN 10 - St. Mary School, Pre K - 7th Grade 13 - Rosary School, Pre K - 8th Grade 1919 NW 18th St. 502 East Warner Avenue • Guthrie, OK 73044 Oklahoma City, OK 73106 19 (405) 282-2071 (405) 525-9272 • www.rosaryschool.com 14 Open House: January 29, 2012, 1:00-3:00 pm 6 - St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School www.stmarysguthrie.eduk12.net 17 - Good Shepherd Catholic School Open House: January 29, 2012, 12:00 - 2:00 pm Distinguished Alum Joe Kernke will be honored at 11am Mass Pre K - 8th Grade • (405) 348-5364 Sunday, January 29, 2012, reception following 18 Ages 3 - 9, children with autism spectrum disorders Observation Days: by appointment 925 S. Boulevard St. • Edmond, OK 73083 Observation: By appointment only students may shadow for a day 13404 N. Meridian Avenue www.seascardinals.org Oklahoma City, OK 73120 Mass with Archbishop Coakley, Thursday, (405) 752-2264 February 2, 2012 followed by Open House: March 1 & 2, 2012, 9:30 - 11:00 am Volunteer Reception and 1:00 - 2:30 pm both days. Observation Days: by appointment Observations: by appointment 9

16 - Christ the King School 8 - St. Philip Neri Catholic School 15 - St. Eugene Catholic School 7 - All Saints Catholic School Pre K - 8th Grade Pre 3 - 8th Grade Pre 3 - 8th Grade Pre K - 8th Grade 14 - Mount St. Mary Catholic High School 1905 Elmhurst Ave. 1121 Felix Place • Midwest City, OK 73110 9 - St. Mary School Lawton 2400 W. Hefner Rd. 4001 36th Ave. NW Oklahoma City, OK 73120 (405) 737-4496 • www.stphilipnerischool.com Pre K - 8th Grade 2801 S. Shartel Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73120 Norman, OK 73072 (405) 843-3909 • www.ckschool.com We welcome your visit. Please contact the 611 SW “A” Ave. • Lawton, OK 73501 Oklahoma City, OK 73109 (405) 751-0067 • www.steugeneschool.org (405) 447-4600 • www.allsaintsnorman.org Open House: January 29, 2012, 1:30-3:30 pm school office to arrange a tour of our school. (580) 355-5288 • www.stmaryslawtonok.com (405) 631-8865 • www.mountstmary.org Open House: January 29, 2012, 11:30-1:30 pm School Tours are available by appointment Open House: April 14, 2012, 1:00 - 4:00 pm Curriculum Fair held in the Fall Semester Observation Days: by appointment Observation Days: by appointment Tours & Observation: by appointment Observation & Shadow Visits: by appointment Check website for information on waiting list. 4 Catholic Schools Week • January 8, 2012

Good Shepherd Catholic School at Mercy continued this special work.” amount for any family. However, some “Because special education is qualifying students receive funds so specialized and so costly, we as a through the Nicole Henry Scholarship Catholic school system have not been Fund which is sponsored by the State of able to reach out to special needs stu- Oklahoma. In addition, start up funds dents”, said Sister Powers. She con- were provided for the school by the tinued, “Thanks to the resources of Inasmuch Foundation. The Foundation Mercy Hospital, and the expertise of provided a loan of $250,000 so that the the faculty and staff of the University school could open its doors in of Central Oklahoma, we are able to September, 2011. This loan will have offer a religious education to children to be repaid in a short time. Therefore, on the autistic spectrum. Prayer and the challenge to the Board members of religious instruction are part of each Good Shepherd Catholic School at school day for all children who enroll. Mercy is to identify ways of funding They are learning that they are greatly the school so that it can have a strong loved by the God who created them. “ future. Sister Powers said, “we have All involved in this venture are been so touched that, as the word gets excited about its potential and the pos- out about the mission of Good sibilities of seeing this program grow. Shepherd, donors have come forth Sister Powers said, “any family who wanting to help. “ With such assis- has been touched by autism knows that tance, Good Shepherd Catholic School this new school is a blessing. These at Mercy will grow and thrive. special children and their families deserve the opportunity of receiving a faith based education in the Catholic tradition.” Autism, is a complex neurobiological disorder that typically lasts throughout a person’s lifetime. The disorder is characterized by varying degrees of impairment in communication skills and social abilities, and also by repetitive behaviors. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Studies show that autism now affects 1 in 110 children and 1 in 70 boys. Teachers and parents at the school report that they have already seen progress in the students, as a result of the program. Some parents say that they are hearing their children speak for the first time. The cost of tuition at the school is $21,000, an astronomical

Catholic Schools In the Archdiocese of OKC Five year enrollment statistics

2007-2008 School Year: Elementary Enrollment 4,118 High School Enrollment 1,002 Total Enrollment: 5,120

2011-2012 School Year: Elementary Enrollment 4,147 - 0.7% increase in a 5 yr period High School Enrollment 1,098 - 9.5% & increase in a 5 yr period Total Enrollment: 5,344 - 2.4% increase in a 5 yr period

Catholic Elementary School Graduates & High School: In 2006, 67% of our 8th grade graduates attended Catholic High School. In 2011, 68% of our 8th grade graduate attended Catholic High School. In 2011, our two high schools graduated 250 students. Of that number 238 went to college. This represents 95.2%. January 8, 2012 ● Sooner Catholic 9 Pope Recognizes Miracles For Two On Path To Canonization Vatican City (CNA/EWTN News) — Pope Despite objections from her relatives, she was Benedict XVI formally recognized miracles attrib- baptized at age 20, after meeting several Catholic uted to Bl. Marianne Cope and Bl. Kateri priests. An outcast from her community, Bl. Tekakwitha on Dec. 19, clearing the way for both Tekakwitha lived a life of deep prayer, with a strong women to be canonized. devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. She died in 1680 The two women, who both lived in the United at the age of 24. Witnesses said that the scars on her States, were among numerous individuals whose face disappeared after her death. sainthood causes were advanced by decrees author- Bl. Tekakwitha was beatified by Pope John Paul ized by Pope Benedict XVI. II in 1980, the first Native American to be declared Sister Grace Anne Dillenschneider, vice postula- blessed. tor for the Cause for the Diocese of Syracuse, told On Dec. 19, Pope Benedict also authorized pro- CNA on Dec. 19 that the date for Bl. Cope’s canon- mulgations recognizing miracles attributed to the ization has not yet been confirmed. Bl. Marianne Cope and Bl. Kateri Tekakwitha intercession of 10 other individuals, allowing them The Congregation for the Causes of Saints had to move forward toward beatification or canoniza- already approved Bl. Cope’s second official miracle, where she spent several years caring for lepers. She tion. In addition, he recognized the martyrdom of which involved the medical recovery of a woman in died in 1918 and was beatified in 2005. more than 60 individuals, including priests, reli- Syracuse who was cured of a fatal and irreversible Bl. Kateri Tekakwitha, known as “the Lily of the gious and laymen, who can now move forward in the health condition. Mohawks,” was born in 1656 in upstate New York. process toward beatification.The Pope also approved Born in western Germany in 1838, Bl. Marianne Her father was a Mohawk chief and her mother was decrees recognizing seven individuals as having Cope entered religious life in Syracuse, N.Y., where an Algonquin who was raised Catholic. A smallpox lived out heroic virtue and being venerable. These she served as a teacher and principal and es- epidemic killed both of her parents and left her with individuals will each need a miracle attributed to tablished two hospitals before traveling to Hawaii, poor eyesight and a disfigured face at a young age. their intercession before they can be beatified. Author Addresses Depression Health Care Retreat Set For Jan. 27 Beyond Blue: Surviving talks about how her OKLAHOMA CITY — Catholic Charities and Mercy Health Center will Depression and Anxiety and Making faith has helped her sponsor their Annual Health Care Retreat on Friday, Jan. 27 from 9 a.m. to 3 the Most of Bad Genes. Therese J. with her struggles p.m. at Mercy Health Center. Borchard. New York: Center Street, and that some The retreat, titled “Healing the Healer,” will be facilitated by Rev. James A. 2010. 258 pages. Hardback. ISBN Catholic clergy are Goins, pastor of St. Thomas More University Parish in Norman. The program 978-1-59995-156-0. $21.99. on her support team. is designed to provide spiritual renewal and healing for health professionals — Therese J. Borchard suffers from Her honesty and physicians, nurses, social workers, chaplains and spiritual directors. manic depression, anxiety, alcoholism, humor are very in- Presentation topics are “The Path of the Healer,” “Seven Spiritual and other addictions and disorders. formative and enter- Medicines” and “Why Are We All So Wounded?” She presents her life story of being a taining. One who By Brother Registration is $35 per person. However, registration for Catholic manic depressive and how this has suffers from de- Benet Exton, Charities and Mercy employees and anyone over 60 is $25. Lunch is included. impacted her life. She is married and pression needs a O.S.B To register, contact Glenda Bronson at (405) 936-5226 or glenda.bronson- has two little children. She went to St. good sense of humor @mercy.net. Mary’s College in Notre Dame, Ind. or the “Black Dog,” Winston She is a Catholic who is devoted to Churchill’s name for depression, will God. St. Therese of Lisieux is her grab you and eat you up. Abraham patron and she mentions her often Lincoln also used humor to combat his Catholic Radio Five Days a Week in the book as a special friend in her depression. Some of her cuss words life. Borchard shows how she has might offend some, but they express Now on AM and FM radio struggled with manic depression and the down-to-earth pain those who her other disorders and addictions. suffer from depression and addictions KTLR FM 94.1 She tells about how she many times go through. She provides between the came close to doing what the voices chapters some interesting and at KTLR 890 AM told her do like suicide, but she was times entertaining interludes from able to fight against that with positive her life. FM 94.1 Schedule: self-talk or with interventions by her This book is highly recommended husband or others. to those interested in learning about Monday - Friday: 1 p.m. to 7 a.m. Borchard has a blog on the Inter- manic depression, bipolar depression, net called Beyond Blue, where she anxiety, addictions and how they AM 890 Schedule: encourages others like herself to keep affect people. This book will inform Monday - Friday: 1 p.m. until station sign-off at dusk. going forward in life and not to give up and inspire those who suffer from or give in. From the blog is where she these disorders or who are family or was encouraged to write this book friends of them. Go to www.okcatholicbroadcasting.com about her life. She tells her story Brother Benet Exton, O.S.B., St. for the current schedule of programs. honestly with humor sprinkled in. She Gregory’s University, Shawnee 10 Sooner Catholic ● January 8, 2012 Eucharistic Adoration Around the Archdiocese “The church and the world have a great need Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for Eucharistic worship. Jesus awaits us in this Prince of Peace - 1500 Falcon Road, Altus Sacrament of love. Let us not refuse the time to go meet him in adoration, in contemplation full of faith, Friday 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and open to making amends for the serious offenses St. Peter Parish - 1220 N. Quinn Street, and crimes of the world. Let our adoration never Guymon cease.” — John Paul II. Following are the locations and intervals of Exposition and Adoration of the Friday 6 to 7 p.m. Blessed Sacrament across the Archdiocese. If your Holy Cross Parish - 14 W. Francis, Madill parish is not listed, needs updating, or if you have a question, feel free to contact: Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m Barbara M. Curcio St. John the Baptist Parish - 900 S. Littler, St. Eugene Parish Edmond (405) 755-9163 or [email protected] Third Friday 5 p.m. to. 5 p.m. Saturday First Friday 6 to 7 p.m. Perpetual Adoration, 24 hours St. Joseph Parish - 1300 E. Beverly, Ada a day/year round St. Monica Parish - 2001 N. Western, Edmond First Friday 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Saturday First Friday Benediction 5:30 p.m. St. Joseph Parish - 421 E. Acres Street, Norman St. Eugene Parish - 2400 W. Hefner Road, St. Francis of Assisi Parish - 1901 NW 18th St. Andrew Parish - 800 NW 5th Street, Moore Oklahoma City Street, Oklahoma City

Sunday 2:30 to 5 p.m. Wednesday 6 p.m. First Friday Benediction 5:30 p.m. Wednesday 6:30-10 p.m., Friday 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. St. Mary Parish - 125 E. Street, Ardmore St. John Nepomuk Parish - 600 S. Garth Brooks St. Francis Xavier Parish - 110 N. Madison Blvd., Yukon Street, Enid Wednesday 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. St. Francis of Assisi Parish - 610 W. 9th Street, First Friday 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Sunday 6 to 7 p.m. Newkirk Holy Angels Parish - 317 N. Blackwelder St. Joseph Parish - 403 Kate Boevers Avenue, Avenue, Oklahoma City Union City Wednesday 5 to 7 p.m. St. Francis Xavier Parish - 700 E. Oklahoma First Friday 9 a.m. to noon Monday 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Avenue, Highway 7, Sulphur St. Mark the Evangelist - 3939 W. Tecumseh Christ the King Parish - 8005 Dorset Drive, Road, Norman Oklahoma City Wednesday 5 to 6 p.m., Friday 9 to 10 a.m. St. Rose of Lima Parish - 4254 N. 9th Street, First Friday 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Perry Monday 6 to 7 p.m. St. Mary’s Parish - 707 E. Ponca Avenue, Immaculate Conception Parish - Highway 9 Ponca City West, Seminole Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Daily M,T,W,F 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. First Friday 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Epiphany of the Lord Parish - Monday noon to 10 p.m. 7336 W. Britton Road, Oklahoma City Sts. Peter and Paul Parish - 309 S. Main Sacred Heart Parish - 208 S. Evans Avenue, Street, Kingfisher El Reno Thursday 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sacred Heart Parish - 627 12th Street, Alva First Friday 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday 9 a.m. to 12 noon St. Teresa of Avila Parish - 1576 N. Tim Holt Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help - Thursday 5 to 9:30 p.m. Drive, Harrah 3214 Lake Avenue, Oklahoma City St. Gregory Monastery - 1900 W. MacArthur, Shawnee First Friday 7:30 p.m. Wednesday 6:45 to 8:15 p.m. St. Ann Parish - 8492 State Highway 17, Elgin First Friday 11 a.m. to noon Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. First Saturday 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. St. James the Greater Parish - 4201 S. First Friday 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. St. Benedict Parish - 632 N. Kickapoo Avenue, McKinley, Oklahoma City St. Vincent De Paul Parish - 123 S. 9th Street, Shawnee McLoud Thursday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. St. Philip Neri Parish - 1107 Felix Place, Saturday 6 a.m. to Sunday 9 p.m. St. Charles Borromeo Parish - 5024 N. Grove Midwest City Sacred Heart Parish - 2706 S. Shartel Avenue, Avenue, Oklahoma City Oklahoma City Fourth Thursday 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Divine Mercy Adoration Third Sunday of the Month 7 p.m. St. Damien Parish - 8455 NW 234th St., Edmond St. Joseph’s Old Cathedral, 307 N.W. 4th Street, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish - 220 N. A Wednesday 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Benediction Oklahoma City Street, Sterling January 8, 2012 ● Sooner Catholic 11 Calendar JANUARY 11 Catholic War Veterans USA. served at 6:30 p.m. Games begin at Infant Jesus. Nine days of novenas 8 Charismatic Healing Mass, Oklahoma Memorial Post 168 will 7 p.m. with a first session; second to Infant Jesus of Prague monthly. 5:30 p.m. at Immaculate Conception hold their monthly meeting at 7 p.m. session at 8:30 p.m. $5 per session, no Catholic Church, 3901 S.W. 29th St., in the Sunnylane Family Reception limit on blackout cards, group photo 22 Pilgrimage Sunday, Mass Oklahoma City. For more in- Center located at 3900 SE 29th St. in of all the winners. begins at 11 a.m. National Shrine of formation, call the Church office at Del City, every second Wednesday. the Infant Jesus of Prague is located (405) 685-4806. For more information, contact Ken 14 The Benedictine Oblates of at Saint Wenceslaus Catholic Church at (405) 739-0036 or by email at Red Plains Monastery will meet at 304 Jim Thorpe Blvd. in Prague. 10 Catholic War Veterans (of any [email protected]. from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. They join the (405) 567-3080 or www.shrineof- war/conflict) will meet the second Community for Vespers, followed by a infantjesus.com. Tuesday of each month in the 11 Catholics Returning Home, potluck dinner. For more information, community room of St. Ann Wednesdays beginning Jan. 11 from 7 contact Sister Eunice at 373-4565 or 22 Join us as Birth Choice of Retirement Center at 7 p.m. For more to 8:30 p.m. at Christ the King [email protected]. Oklahoma, Inc. celebrates our new information, contact Father M. Price Church, 496-0033. location of the Bethany Birth Choice Oswalt at (405) 567-3404. 15 The Filipino Catholic Office from 2 to 4 p.m. at 6006 N. 12 The Catholic Woman’s community of the Archdiocese of Rockwell. Call 495-6919 for more 10 Catholics Returning Home, Activities Club meets on the second Oklahoma City will hold its fifth information. Tuesdays beginning Jan. 10 from Thursday of each month at noon from annual celebration on the Feast of 7 to 8:30 p.m. at St. John the Baptist September through May in the Patio the Holy Infant Jesus. Archbishop 22 Holy Trinity annual Catholic Church. Contact Dale and Room of Epiphany of Our Lord Paul Coakley will preside at the 4 Homemade Chicken Noodle Connie Moore, 834-0765. Church (7336 W. Britton Rd.) All p.m. Mass on Jan. 15. Following Mass Dinner from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Catholic women are invited to join us. a celebration featuring traditional Holy Trinity Catholic Church Parish 10 Catholics Returning Home, For more information, call June at Filipino food, dress and dance will be Hall. Cost for adults is $6, children Tuesdays beginning Jan. 10 from 7 to 525-6904 or Pearl at 524-3641. held in the Connor Center, next to 12 years and under is $4 and 8:30 p.m. at Church of the Epiphany the Cathedral. children 3 and under are free. Enjoy of the Lord, 722-2110 Ext. 125. 13 Bingo Night at St. Joseph’s homemade chicken noodles, salad, Church in Norman. Light supper 17-25 Monthly Novena to The roll, drink and homemade dessert. Jobs Box Archdiocese to Celebrate MLK Chief Financial Officer The Knights of Columbus is OKLAHOMA CITY — The Arch- St. Gregory’s University seeking a field agent for a career diocese annual celebration to honor seeks a Chief Financial Officer. opportunity representing our in- the work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The CFO will provide leadership surance program in the Norman- will be held on Sunday, Jan. 15 at 11 in strategic planning processes, Lawton area. This professional a.m. at Corpus Christi Church. Mass particularly relating to financial position offers the chance to make will be celebrated by the Most and budgetary components main- an above average income, a career Reverend Paul Coakley, Archbishop of taining a high degree of financial path into management if desired, Oklahoma City. accountability and transparency. paid advanced education and A Multicultural Tribute will follow The CFO will provide budgetary generous bonus opportunities. We Mass at 12:15 p.m. The tribute will in- leadership and oversee all the offer a complete benefits package clude liturgical dances performed by university accounting functions. with this full-time position. Works St. Gregory’s University students, CPA required with 7+ in an assigned and exclusive Corpus Christi youth, and dancers experience in financial adminis- marketing area to sell and service representing Guatemala, Puerto Rico tration in a management or super- our insurance and retirement and Mexico. A presentation of the “I visory capacity. Knowledge of products. Performs needs analysis Have a Dream” speech by Dr. King will relevant regulations and require- for assigned members and be given by Mount St. Mary students. ments to satisfactorily meet recommends appropriate products “The event, which is organized government reporting require- to meet those needs. Develops each year by Corpus Christi Parish and Catholic Charities, celebrates Dr. ments for financial activities positive relationships with the King’s work and invites the community to join in solidarity with those pertaining to the accountability local councils to help recruit new who are in need, and working for ways to improve their lives,” said Becky and stewardship of university members. VanPool, director of Catholic Charities Parish Outreach and Program resources. Submit resume to In order to qualify, one must Development. [email protected]. Full job be eligible for membership in the “Dr. King challenged society to ‘lift the load of poverty,’ and we are description available at www.- Knights of Columbus. For more challenged to pray and work for all those who are poor and marginalized,” stgregorys.edu under Faculty and information, please email a VanPool said. “By improving their lives, we improve our lives as well. Staff tab. resume to Kevin Pierce, FICF, “The Mass and the celebration are a tribute from the Catholic General Agent, at Kevin.Pierce@- community. Everyone is invited to attend.” Field Agent kofc.org, or call (405) 514-7660. For additional information, contact VanPool at 523-3003. 12 Sooner Catholic ● January 8, 2012 Life is a Gift from God Sanctity of Life Mass Jan. 18, 2012 6 p.m. Mass

Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help (3214 N. Lake, OKC)

Celebrant Most Reverend Paul Coakley Archbishop of Oklahoma City

Following Mass, Greg Schleppenbach, Nebraska’s State Director Pro Life Activities, will present “Proclaiming the Gospel of Life in a Culture of Death” for adults in the Cathedral. A program for high school youth will be facilitated by Father Joseph Irwin in the Connor Center.

More information, call Becky VanPool at (405) 523-3003

Sponsored by: Archdiocesan Sanctity of Life Committee