DAKOTA ACTION Volume 71, Number 1 The Catholic Voice for the Diocese of Bismarck January 2012

INDEX ’s Schedule...... 2 A Just and Simple Fair Trade Christmas.....4 News Briefs...... 4-5 No More, No Less...... 5 Stewardship...... 6 Ag Attitudes...... 6 St. Leo’s Renovation..... 8-9 Catholics and Media...... 10 ND Catholic Conference...... 11 Listen Up and Laugh...... 12 Vocation Awareness...... 13 Youth Activity Schedule...... 14 Calendar of Events...... 15

75th Tekakwitha Conference To Be Held An Overview of the Mass By Rev. Nick L. Schneider fact, to worthily participate in Mass, we should In the year 1656 a young girl was born. pray you all had a blessed Christmas, filled make a habit of regular confession, and if we This young soul born of the Mohawk na- with the joy of welcoming Christ. For are aware of having committed any mortal sins tion in upstate New York was to live only a those who have been following this article, since our last confession, we are not to receive short time, walking with her people, before you will know that over the past months, communion at Mass. Nevertheless, a general she would surrender back to God what she Iwe have briefly traversed the new translation of confession of our sins as well as asking God’s had learned about Christ. This young woman the Roman Missal, 3rd Edition. We looked at pardon and everyone’s prayers is an essential would know of the cross very early in her life a few principles, and then some of the biggest part of Mass. when a smallpox epidemic swept through her changes to both our dialogue parts and the The “Gloria” follows on Sundays outside of tribal area, marking her physically by the dis- priests parts. Lent and on Feast days. After we recognize our ease. Losing many people dear to her in this Now, in the new year, I intend to start at the sins, we recognize God’s Glory. epidemic, she was left as an orphan at the age top and slowly work our way through the Mass The introductory rites conclude with the of four. With all the adversities and calami- from beginning to end. Of course, along the “collect.” This prayer is meant to “collect” the ties of living in a world far different from our way we will look at parts of the new translation private prayers of the entire gathering and offer own, she found Christ. - what has changed and why. Nevertheless, my them to God. The priest speaks this prayer to She saw the “black robes” journeying biggest goal is simply to explain the Mass so we God on behalf of the community, and is usu- through their area on their missionary trips. know what is happening, and can participate ally addressed directly to God the Father. This Although her mother had been a Christian, more fruitfully. opening prayer very regularly contains the es- because she was orphaned at such a young age This month, I want to take a give an overview sential aspect of the feast being celebrated, and and unable to benefit from a mother’s spiri- of the Mass. Broadly, the Mass is structured in reflects what the proper attitude of the mind tual guidance, she was able to find a path that four parts: 1. Introductory Rites 2. Liturgy of and heart should be toward the mystery be- took her to Jesus. Her story has been docu- the Word 3. Liturgy of the Eucharist 4. Com- ing celebrated. It is worth taking a quick look mented by a wonderful book compiled and munion/Concluding rites. In the coming weeks, at this prayer sometime before Mass starts to authored with reflections by Father Edward we will get more specific. For now, let’s take a ask the Lord to shape our minds and hearts in Sherman of the Diocese of Fargo. short glance at the purpose of each part. accord to the desires that the Church expresses This woman was named “Tekakwitha,” later here. called Catherine, translated “Kateri” when she Introductory Rites became a Christian. Declared Venerable by The main purpose of the introductory rites Liturgy of the Word Pius XII in 1943, the first major step to at Mass is to recognize that God is about to do In the Liturgy of the Word, we listen and the formation of the cult of Kateri Tekakwitha something amazing for us, and that we need respond to God’s Word in the Scripture, and was achieved and on July 22, 1980, her name his help to enter into this marvelous gift. After hear it broken open. Of course, we are all was elevated to the altar as Blessed Kateri the priest processes in accompanied by a sung familiar with the structure. There is one read- Tekakwitha by Pope John Paul II. antiphon, we start with the Sign of the Cross. ing followed by a Psalm that comments on the In 1939 the Bishop of Fargo, Aloysius The Sign of the Cross should reminds us of our reading. On Sundays and solemnities, there is Muench, instituted a group of clergy work- Baptism - “In the name of the Father, and of the a second reading. On such days, one reading ing on the reservations within his diocese. Son and of the Holy Spirit.” We were baptized is from the Old Testament and one from the This included the Spirit Lake Nation located into Christ, our sins were washed away, and a New Testament. Then, after an Alleluia verse, at Fort Totten, North Dakota, and the Turtle new life began in us. The power of that cleans- the priest or proclaims the Gospel. After Mountains area located near Belcourt, North ing and rejuvenating bath is the power of the this, on most days and always on Sundays and Dakota. This gathering of clergy later became Cross of Christ. solemnities, there is a homily explaining the the Tekakwitha Conference and continued to The source of our being able to enter into readings. function as a support to missionary priests of the sacred mysteries is that baptism. Neverthe- The Church teaches that when Scripture is the northern Great Plains until 1976. less, we all know too well that after baptism we proclaimed and explained in the liturgy, it is Beginning in 1977, this conference moved have all sinned. For that reason, the next part Christ Himself who proclaims the Word. The across the United States and into Canada of Mass - before confessing God’s greatness - is ministers give voice to the Word, but Christ to confess our sins. This general confession of Continued on Page 3 our sins is not a replacement for confession. In Continued on Page 3  • Dakota Catholic Action January 2012

New Bishop of Bismarck Will Be Bishop’s Missed in Rockford By Bishop Thomas G. Doran With permission from The Observer, the official newspaper of the Catholic Diocese Schedule of Rockford As I write this, the words and music of Mon- Bishop David D. Kagan, J.C.L. signor David D. Kagan’s as seventh Bishop of Bismarck, North Dakota, still echo in January 1-31, 2012 my ears. Bishop Kagan and I were in Rome together January 5 in 1977, and from that time he has served with -Liturgy & Luncheon, me in the Diocesan Tribunal of Rockford until Society Visitors, Chancery, Bismarck, 8:00 I was appointed a Prelate Auditor of the Roman a.m. Rota in 1986. After my appointment as Bishop -Meeting, Catholic Education, Church of of Rockford in 1994, I asked Bishop Kagan to the Ascension, Bismarck, 7:00 p.m. be Vicar General for the Diocese and also the Moderator of the Curia (that is the head of the Diocesan Administration). These offices he January 6 fulfilled until last year when I appointed him -North Dakota Catholic Conference Board Pastor of Holy Family in Rockford, from Meeting, Jamestown, 10:00 a.m. which pastorate our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI chose him to be Bishop of Bismarck. The January 7-13 events which surrounded his Episcopal Ordina- -Region VIII Provincial ’ Retreat, tion and Installation in Bismarck are cataloged Tucson, AZ elsewhere. I wish here to pay fitting tribute to the out- January 15 standing service Bishop Kagan rendered to the Bishop David D. Kagan -Confirmation, Church of Queen of Peace, Diocese of Rockford and to me as his Bishop. Dickinson, 10:00 a.m. MT Bishop Kagan is an extremely capable ad- yet whatever decision was ultimately made, car- ministrator. All the areas of diocesan life which ried out the policy determined with exactness January 16 were given over to his supervision profited from and fidelity. The readers of this column will -Liturgy & Presentation to Faculty and his skill and conscientious attention to duty. In understand how true it is that what the Diocese Administration of Bismarck Catholic his supervision in the various diocesan depart- of Bismarck has gained through his appoint- Schools @ St. Mary Central High School, ments, his overall custody of the diocesan of- ment, we have lost. fices and of his attention to the impact of good Bishop Kagan goes now to preach the Gos- Bismarck, 8:30 a.m. administration upon the pastoral life of the pel, to offer the Sacrifice of the Mass and to Diocese, Bishop Kagan proved himself over and guide the Christian faithful in a place far from January 17 over again adept and faithful. All these things his home in Spring Grove, Illinois, in this Dio- -Deanery Welcoming Reception & Vespers are to be sure much appreciated in the course cese. Service, Church of St. Joseph, Williston, of my years as Bishop of Rockford. I know that all who are interested in this 7:00 p.m. Over and above this, Bishop Kagan has gifts Diocese and in the welfare of the Church wish which can neither be demanded nor presumed; him well and accompany him with their prayers January 19 he enjoyed the integrity which enabled him to as do I. Because this Diocese is gifted with -Diocesan Directors’ Monthly Staff Meeting give advice which was sometimes contradictory many talented priests, the tasks that he per- @ Center for Pastoral Ministry, Bismarck, or contrary to my own inclinations. He did this formed so well will be performed by others, but 10:00 a.m. in a manner that was forthright and sincere and that does not mean that he will not be missed. -Deanery Welcoming Reception & Vespers Service, Church of Christ the King, Mandan, 7:00 p.m. Ordination Mass January 24 -Deanery Welcoming Reception & Vespers Available on DVD Service, Church of St. Wenceslaus, The Ordination and Installation Mass of Dickinson, 7:00 p.m. Bishop David D. Kagan, the seventh Bishop of the Bismarck, is now available on a DVD. The January 26 live telecast of the historic celebration, made -Deanery Welcoming Reception & Vespers possible by the and KFYR- Service, Church of St. Leo, Minot, 7:00 p.m. TV, is attractively labeled in a plastic case and features commentary by Fr. Patrick Schumacher January 29 and Monica Hannan. -Confirmation, Church of St. Vincent The DVD can be ordered by contacting Jane Longtin, Communications Coordinator, de Paul, Crown Butte, 9:00 a.m. Diocese of Bismarck, via email at jlongtin@ bismarckdiocese.com, or by calling 222-3035 in January 31 Bismarck or toll-free at 1-877-405-7435. -All School Liturgy, Dickinson Catholic The cost of each DVD is $10. Please send Schools @ Church of Queen of Peace, your check along with the mailing instructions Dickinson, 9:15 a.m. MT to Jane Longtin, Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1137, Bismarck, ND 58502-1137.

DAKOTA The Dakota Catholic Action (0011-5770) is The Dakota Catholic Action is a member published monthly except July by the Diocese of the Catholic Press Associaion. atholic ction of Bismarck, 420 Raymond Street, Bismarck, ND C A 58501-3723. Periodical postage paid at Bismarck, Publisher: Center for Pastoral Ministry - Diocese ND, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Most Reverend David D. Kagan, D.D., of Bismarck USPS0011-5770 Send address changes to address below. P.A., J.C.L., Bishop of Bismarck 520 N. Washigton Street, PO Box 1137 Editor: Joel Melarvie Bismarck, ND 58502-1137 Dakota Catholic Action, The Dakota Catholic Action is funded in [email protected] Ph: 701-222-3025 Fax: 701-222-0269 PO Box 1137, part by the annual God’s Share Appeal. www.bismarckdiocese.com Bismarck, ND 58502-1137 January 2012 Dakota Catholic Action • 

An Overview of the Mass Continued from Page 1

himself speaks his Word to us. What an tre- come the Body and Blood of Jesus. The actions mendous gift that Christ uses ordinary people are the same as those of Jesus at the last supper through whom to speak his own life-giving - the priest takes bread, gives thanks, breaks the Word! For this reason, it is important that read- bread and gives it to the people. ers prepare well to truly be instruments of God. After the readings and homily, on Sundays Communion and Concluding Rites and Solemnities we profess our faith in a Creed, This part of the Mass seems disproportion- and finally ask God for assistance in short inter- ately short compared to the rest of Mass. We cessory prayers. pray the Lord’s prayer, exchange the sign of peace, receive communion, and then are sent Liturgy of the Eucharist away. There is good reason, though, for this part The Liturgy of the Eucharist begins with an being shorter. Here, the people come forth to offertory. Often on Sundays in parishes, this receive the greatest gift God could give us - his includes a collection and a procession to bring very Self. When we eat what looks like bread, we forth bread, wine and water. Of course, the are actually communicating Jesus Christ - body, water and wine and bread are essential to the blood, soul and divinity. After this, there is not Eucharist, as they will in fact become the Body much to say or do. From here, the only thing and Blood of Christ that we receive at the altar. to be done is to go forth and bring Christ into The action of the procession should remind us whatever situation we find ourselves. that we offer everything to God. It is not just bread and wine that we wish to be transformed There is a quick look at Mass. In the coming into Christ, but our whole life. It ought to be a months, we will look piece by piece at each part moment of total surrender and transparency of Mass starting at the very beginning. before God. We should be placing our joys, suf- ______ferings, hopes - indeed the whole of our life on the altar along with the rest of the gifts. Rev. Schneider was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Bismarck by Bishop Paul A. Zipfel on June 29, 2009. He Then, the priest prays the great Eucharistic recently completed the degree of License in Sacred Liturgy at prayer. We believe that by this prayer and ac- the Pontifical Liturgical Institute of the Atheneum St. Anselmo tions addressed to the Father through the priest in Rome, Italy, and is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Sacred in the person of Christ together with the activ- Liturgy at the same institute. He is in residence at the Casa Santa Maria in Rome, Italy. ity of the Holy Spirit, the bread and wine be-

This stained glass window of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha is a recent addition to Church of Spirit of Life in Mandan. 75th Tekakwitha Conference Continued from Page 1

for its annual gathering. In 1989 the confer- ence returned to Fargo on its 50th anniversary. Representing the was Francis Cardinal Arenzi when it gathered at the North Dakota State University campus. The history of the conference was well documented by Father Daniel Madalin, OSB, who attended the first conference. Father Dan was instrumental in bringing the conference back to Fargo for its 50th celebration. It was at this conference also that one of the few Native priests in the country was ordained as a transitional deacon, Father John Cavanaugh, a graduate of the University of Mary in Bismarck. The conference will be returning to Fargo in 2014 for its 75th anniversary and is expected to draw people from across the United States and internationally. It is the hope and prayer of her supporters that she will be canonized by the Catholic Church. The first miracle required for her elevation to sainthood has been accepted as valid and has been sent to the Holy See for evaluation. Consequently, that could mean that in 2012 this wonderful event could occur in Rome. She would be the first native indigenous woman of North America being raised by the church to sainthood. If you are interested in helping or support- ing the 75th anniversary conference or would like more information, please contact Father John Cavanaugh at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Reynolds, ND, at 701-847-3096.  • Dakota Catholic Action January 2012 A Just and Simple Fair Trade Christmas By Kelli R. Schneider he first weekend in December, Ca- thedral of the Holy Spirit School and Parish hosted its second annual Just and Simple Fair Trade Christmas. TheT event featured handcrafted goods from producers in poverty-stricken countries, made available for sale after all the weekend Masses in the Cathedral cafeteria. The goods were simple things – coffees, teas, chocolate, textiles, baskets, scarves and jewelry – and students and par- ents volunteered throughout the course of the weekend to help in selling the products. Addi- tionally, the goods sold were Fair Trade prod- ucts, meaning they met a set of criteria to be named Fair Trade. For a good to be considered Fair Trade, a number of commitments must be met, including, among other things: a fair wage being paid in the local context; growing long-term relationships for trade; and offering safe and healthy conditions in which to work, in the local context (as taken from the Fair Trade Federation). Fair Trade, which is the essence of A Just and Simple Christmas, is about respect for God’s people and is very much connected with our Above: Cathedral School Kindergarten Teacher Mrs. Louise Ryberg with students, Catholic social tradition. In the document, Alexis and Nicole Maher, at A Just and Simple Fair Trade Christmas. Themes from (US- CCB Publishing, 2005) seven major themes of Right: Cathedral parishioner Patricia Churchill takes a look at the merchandise. Catholic Social Teaching are summarized. This summary, provided by the Unites States Con- us can necessarily go to a country or a people importance. ference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), is meant in poverty and provide housing or education or The value as a starting point by which we can dig further whatever else the immediate need may be, but of what may into Catholic Social Teaching and what these we can do our part here, supporting the pro- seem to be teachings mean in the context of our Roman ducers of these goods and giving them a small so small Catholic faith. The themes flow from one to the fraction of the means to build their lives,” said – providing next and the first theme – life and dignity of the Father John Guthrie, Pastor of Cathedral of people an human person – provides the strong founda- the Holy Spirit. “It becomes a matter of taking opportu- tion upon which the other themes are built, for ownership of the responsibility we have been nity to buy without life and recognition of each person’s called to by Christ to care for our brothers and Fair Trade God-given dignity, the other themes would not sisters, near and far,” Guthrie continued. “The items – in exist. children in our school are given the opportu- the grand Cathedral of the Holy Spirit names five nity to learn about the organization for which scheme of values by which the parish strives to live – one they are selling,” said Leann Binde, Principal of things makes a lasting impact. “To do small of which is charity and justice – a commitment Cathedral School. things with great love, just as St. Thérèse of to justice and the ministry of charity. A Just and Our Catholic faith is, by definition, universal. Liseux, this is our call.” Simple Fair Trade Christmas provides parish- It is fitting, then, that whatever work we can do “Start by doing what’s necessary; then do ioners and visitors alike an opportunity to live to build up our brothers and sisters throughout what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the out that value of charity and justice. “Not all of the world, and in our own midst, be of utmost impossible” — St. .

Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York, variety of sources — from Blessed John Paul II News Briefs president of the bishops’ conference, pursued a to a formerly drug-addicted Vietnam veteran, private meeting with President Barack Obama from Voltaire to a 20-year-old ex-prostitute Bishops’ concerns rise over growing at the White House. Dolan said he who came to World Youth Day in Toronto on a came away from the Nov. 8 meeting “a bit more dare in 2002 and said it saved her life. infringements on religious liberty at peace than when I entered” the Oval Office. Catholic News Service (CNS) — Concerns that religious liberty is being eroded by govern- Giving Hearts Day ment action and policymaking prompted the Archbishop Dolan defines human On February 14, North U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to open a dignity as ‘primary doctrine’ of church Dakota will be taking part in Giving Hearts Day campaign in 2011 to head off what they consid- Catholic News Service (CNS) — Calling the sponsored by the Dakota Medical Foundation. er dangers to the rights of people of faith and dignity of the human person “a primary doc- On this day, gifts made to the agency will be conscience. trine” of the Catholic Church, Archbishop Tim- matched up to $4,000. It’s as easy as 1-2-3! To The bishops’ concerns deepened as the year othy M. Dolan of New York told an audience make a donation on February 14, go to www. progressed, leading to the formation of an Ad at the University of Notre Dame Dec. 6 that it impactgiveback.org and click on Giving Hearts Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty in Sep- must prompt Catholics “to treat ourselves and – Learn more. Select Catholic Charities North tember. The 10 bishops on the committee are others only with respect, love, honor and care.” Dakota and make a donation! working to shape public policy and coordinate That doctrine also means people must not be Catholic Charities North Dakota’s mission the church’s response on the issue. Bishop Wil- identified “with our urges, our flaws, our status, statement is “Guided by our values, Catholic liam E. Lori of Bridgeport, Conn., was named our possessions, our utility,” but each seen as “a Charities North Dakota serves people in need to chair the committee and he wasted no time child of God, his creation, modeled in his own and advocates for the common good of all.” in taking the bishops’ concerns to various image, destined for eternity,” he said. The agency serves the entire state of North public forums. Addressing the bishops Nov. The archbishop, president of the U.S. Con- Dakota with several programs including Preg- 14 at their fall general meeting in Baltimore, ference of Catholic Bishops, was delivering the nancy, Parenting and Adoption, Adults Adopt- Bishop Lori said there seems to be a pattern in inaugural lecture in the university’s new Project ing Special Kids, Guardianship Services, Coun- culture and law to treat religion “as merely a on Human Dignity. “My identity, my person- seling Services, and Disaster Response. private matter between an individual and one’s hood ... does not depend on whether or not This is the first year Catholic Charities North own God. Instead of promoting toleration of I have a green card, a stock portfolio, a job, a Dakota is participating in this wonderful day of differing religious views, some laws, some deci- home or even a college diploma,” Archbishop giving! Last year $1,165,386 was raised by local sions and some administrative regulations treat Dolan said. “Nor does my identity depend upon non-profits on Giving Hearts Day! We hope to religion not as a contributor to our nation’s whom I am sexually attracted to, or to race, make this one even bigger! common morality but as a divisive and disrup- religion, gender, social status, bank account, For more information, please contact Col- tive force better kept out of public life,” he said. passport or health insurance, but on my essence leen Hardy at [email protected] The issue posed such deep concerns that as a child of God.” The talk quoted from a wide or 1-800-450-4457. January 2012 Dakota Catholic Action •  Jesus Numbered Himself Among Sinners But, it is surprising—shocking even—that “like the rest of men” (Luke 18:11). It is an atti- Jesus got in line that day at the Jordan. He, the tude that divides and separates and it can show Sinless One, numbered himself among sinners. up in our lives under numerous guises. We see o ore And, yes, we are called to reflect on its deeper it when we are overly competitive, where win- N M , meaning for us. What does it mean that Jesus ning is the most important goal. We see it in a numbered himself among sinners? It was a type of perfectionism when we refuse to em- No Less stunning reversal of the effects of sin. When brace and accept those parts of ourselves that Adam and Eve chose to disobey God—to set embarrass us or we wish weren’t there. We see themselves and their will above God—the it in arrogant behavior when we so easily judge effects were immediate. They experienced others and set ourselves above them. Father John G. Guthrie alienation, a breaking of relationship with God The common thread through them all is, of Vicar General and with each other. This is precisely what course, a pernicious self-centeredness, a self- sin always does. It separates people from one absorbed individualism. It is a delusion, of another, from their own selves, from God. course. It is isolating and sad. It is the effect of As children, our mother used to take us to Salvation, as Scripture thinks of it, is about sin in our lives. This separation from God, oth- confession before Christmas and Easter. We a healing of this separation—a restoration of ers, and even ourselves remains very much part lined up along with many others outside the relationship, communion, solidarity. When of our lives. confessional waiting our turn. I used to look Jesus got in line to be baptized, it was an act of Jesus’ actions at his own baptism—his all- up and down the line (after examining my con- solidarity, of communion with sinful human- inclusive embrace of our humanity—show us science, of course!) and think how consoling ity. This stunning action was an all-inclusive another path. They are meant to spur us onto it was not to be doing this all alone. It is still a embrace. something more in our lives. Rather than living wonderful thing: people line up outside a con- This is in stark contrast with the attitude a competitive life, we recognize that our lives fessional, their very lining up a public procla- typified by the pharisee Jesus speaks of later are inextricably intertwined. Rather than be- mation of their realization of sin and their need in the Gospels who, on coming to pray in the ing perfectionists, we come to realize that the for God’s forgiving grace. synagogue, congratulates himself on not being road to salvation is not through jettisoning our Imagine what a stir it would make if Jesus humanity (a moving beyond it) but by embrac- were found in line among us self-avowed sin- ing it. Rather than living arrogantly, we humbly ners! The theologians would try to haul him understand that we too stand in line asking for out of line. The priest-confessor would no ...despite our God’s loving forgiveness in solidarity and com- doubt implore him as John the Baptist did: “I munion with all other men and women. The have need to be absolved by you and do you delusions, fact is, despite our delusions, we are very much come to me?” But, if the Gospels are to be be- like the rest of humanity. lieved, Jesus would have been undeterred by the we are very “ Thirty years after his birth, Jesus confirms outraged sensitivities of his admirers. The fact and deepens his identification with human- is, at his baptism, he got in line. If the incident ity. He gets in line at the Jordan with sinners strikes us as unremarkable, maybe it is because much like the … with us. In doing so, he saves us. What a we have heard the Gospels so many times that marvelous manifestation of God’s love. Let us nothing in them has the power to surprise us or rest of humanity be grateful. And let us imitate. stimulate us to deeper reflection.

“Our climate is changing. Caritas organiza- sponsibility must begin in families and schools News Briefs tions are responding to increasing unpredict- and must reflect the church’s teaching that re- ability and extreme weather conditions expe- spect for the human being — in all stages of life Pope urges international rienced around the world. This year we saw — goes hand in hand with respect for nature. floods in Central America, South and Southeast In a pastoral letter, the Southern African agreement on climate change Asia and drought across East Africa,” Cardinal Catholic Bishops’ Conference asked people to By John Thavis Rodriguez said in a statement released by Cari- urge South Africa’s government, which is chair- Catholic News Service tas. ing the Durban meeting, to support resolutions (CNS) — Pope Benedict “Urgent action is necessary. Climate negotia- “based not on immediate economic needs only, XVI urged international leaders to reach a tors in Durban must not further delay agreeing but on the survival needs of future generations.” credible agreement on climate change, keeping to international legislation to curb the threat of Noting that South Africa is the world’s 13th- in mind the needs of the poor and of future climate change and set the world on a path to a highest global emitter of carbon dioxide, the generations. more just and sustainable future,” he said. bishops said the country should pledge “much The pope made the remarks at his noon In 2011, East Africa suffered the worst higher targets of renewable energy production blessing at the Vatican Nov. 27, the day before drought in half a century. Caritas noted that by phasing out coal and nuclear production officials from 194 countries were to begin meet- drought was not new in East Africa, but said and by developing the job creation potential of ing in Durban, South Africa, to discuss the next changes in weather patterns combined with renewable energy.” steps in reducing greenhouse gases and stop- lack of investment, competition for land and The bishops also called on people “to reduce ping global temperatures from rising. water have eroded the capacity of local people greenhouse gas emissions by using your own “I hope that all members of the international to cope. properties productively to grow trees that will community can agree on a responsible, credible “The whole world is vulnerable to climate absorb carbon dioxide, to grow vegetables and and supportive response to this worrisome and change, but poor countries are affected more,” crops organically to reduce the use of chemi- complex phenomenon, keeping in mind the Cardinal Rodriguez said. “Africa is one of the cal-based fertilizers, and to share the food thus needs of the poorest populations and of future most vulnerable continents to the impacts of grown with the hungry and malnourished in generations,” the pope said. climate change. Africans are taking a stand in your midst.” The meeting is the latest in a series to consid- Durban; it is time for the world to stand with Contributing to this story was Bronwen Dachs er follow-up action to the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, Africa.” in South Africa. which obligated industrialized countries to Before leaving for Durban, Cardinal Ro- reduce greenhouse gas emissions by a specific driguez took several thousand young Italian amount. The Kyoto Protocol expires at the end members of a Franciscan environmental group of 2012, and the Durban encounter is consid- to the Vatican for a lively encounter with the ered crucial in forging an additional commit- pope. ment period. The pope told them that the church’s teach- The goal of the talks organized by the U.N. ing on the environment follows from the Framework Convention on Climate Change is principle that men and women are collabora- New Year’s to cut greenhouse gases by 50 percent by 2050 tors with God and his creation. The lessons of and prevent temperatures from rising more responsible stewardship over natural resources than 2 degrees Celsius. are increasingly important, he said. Blessings Honduran Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Mara- “In fact, it is by now evident that there is from Bishop Kagan diaga, president of , was no good future for humanity or for the earth leading a 20-person Caritas delegation to the unless we educate everyone toward a style of and the staff of the Durban talks to press for an agreement on life that is more responsible toward the created Diocese of Bismarck. behalf of poor countries that have been severely world,” he said. impacted by climate change. He said education toward environmental re-  • Dakota Catholic Action January 2012 Protecting Our Children The Diocese of Bismarck is firmly committed to the health and protection of our children, young people and vulnerable Our Spirituality adults. With the hope of healing the pain and suffering from sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, we encourage anyone who has suffered from this abuse to please come forward and let us know. To report allegations of sexual abuse, please contact: Deacon Joel Melarvie, Chancellor, Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1575, Bismarck, ND 58502-1575. Phone: 701.223.1347 or 1.877.405.7435. Helps Us The complaint form and policies can be found on the diocesan web site at: http://www.bismarckdiocese.com/uploads/ resources/530/complaint-form-of-sexual-abuse.pdf. Adapt To All Code of Pastoral Conduct The Catholic Church must be exemplary: Clergy, staff, whether diocesan or parish, and volunteers are held accountable for Things New their behavior. To enable the highest level of accountability, there must be a clear and unambiguous definition of appropriate behavior. To this end, this Code of Pastoral Conduct is defined for the Diocese of Bismarck and it provides a foundation for implementing effective and enforceable standards for all personnel. View the Code of Pastoral Conduct at http://www.bismarckdiocese.com/uploads/resources/506/code-of-pastoral-conduct- diocese-of-bismarck.pdf. Ag Happy 20th Anniversary Attitudes the basis of their definition: “Three convictions in particular underline Stewardship what we say in this pastoral letter. 1. Mature disciples make a conscious, firm decision, James Odermann carried out in action, to be followers of Jesus Christ no matter the cost to themselves. 2. Beginning in conversion, a change of heart and It is amazing how God works. The key is mind, this commitment is expressed not in a to not try to manage things but rather to be single action, nor even in a number of actions accepting of the challenges, as difficult as they over a period of time, but in an entire way of may sometimes be. life. It means committing one’s very self to Ron Schatz This message resonated into my mind as I Office of Stewardship & the Lord. 3. Stewardship is an expression of Resource Development discipleship, with the power to change how we witnessed the weather changing. Large snow- understand and live out our lives. Disciples flakes were lazily floating out of the sky, creat- who practice stewardship recognize God as the ing a sort of idyllic scene, showcasing God’s In 1992, the United States Bishops wrote an origin of life, the giver of freedom, the source glory. I watched a few seconds and thought I excellent Pastoral Letter, Stewardship: A Disci- of all they have and are and will be…They are better get back to work. ple’s Response. Throughout 2012, as we cel- grateful for what they have received and eager It was just a few minutes later when the pace ebrate the 20th anniversary of this publishing, I to cultivate their gifts out of love for God and of the snowflakes increased and soon millions plan to share the Pastoral Letter, as it relates to one another.” more filled the sky, darkening out the sun and my understanding of it, through a mini-series Although the bishops have defined dis- turning the countryside into a virgin white of articles over the next few months. cipleship and stewardship in a single, short blanket. If you have read it, I encourage you to take paragraph, the challenge to live that life of The pace continued for about 30 minutes this opportunity to read it again. If you have stewardship is by no means simple. In fact, it and then began to lighten up a bit, causing me not read it yet, I pray that my thoughts will may be more difficult in our time and in our to reflect on the new beginnings that agricul- inspire you to read it. I am sure you will enjoy culture than ever before. The bishops talk of reading it. Matter of fact, I am certain that once ture producers experience each season. There a number of destructive “isms” – materialism, is no hitting the “duplicate” key and expecting you start reading it, you will probably not be relativism, hedonism, individualism, consum- things to be the same. able to set it down without finishing it first. If erism – which exert a powerful influence on But my mind was drifting as I enjoyed the you would like to order a copy for $9.95, please our society and make it more difficult for us complete the order form below. to grow as disciples and for the church to live white covering of the earth. It was the sign of out its mission. They see themselves, and us, as something clean and pure, something new. It Stewardship: The Challenge “Catholic citizens of a wealthy, powerful nation was on the prairie that I was struck with the and the Choice facing many questions about its identity and realization of new things happening The pastoral letter defines stewardship as “a role in the waning years of a troubled century, It began with the new church year, the first sharing, generous, accountable way of life root- members of a community of faith blessed with Sunday of Advent. The new translation of the ed in Christian discipleship.” It is not optional; many human and material resources yet often Mass was introduced that same day. I was espe- it is a necessary outcome of the faith we profess. uncertain about how to sustain and use them.” cially awestruck by the new translations of the The word “stewardship” sometimes carries Finally, the bishops invite us to accept the chal- Eucharistic Prayer. considerable baggage. Very often we equate lenge and make the choice “to renew our com- Maybe it was because the translations were stewardship with simply giving money. But mitment as the Lord’s disciples and as stewards something new. Maybe it was because the the U.S. Catholic Bishops had something much of his bountiful gifts.” translations were more personal. Maybe it was more broadly encompassing in mind when they A final question for you. What do you see because I listened with more intensity. wrote this wonderful stewardship pastoral. In as the major obstacles in your life to practicing One thing was for sure, I had to pay more the introduction, they spell out what they mean stewardship in the context of Christian disciple- attention to properly respond (“and with your by stewardship and the understandings that are ship? spirit”) and other changed responses. Person- ally, I felt engaged, called out of the ritual of rote responses. ORDER FORM And, then just three days later, the trend was extended with the installation of new U.S. Bishops’ Stewardship Pastoral Letter Bishop David Kagan. He is the new shepherd Stewardship: A Disciple’s Response for the Diocese of Bismarck, the spiritual leader responsible for helping me find the way. This Please send me ___ copies of this special Pastoral Letter for only $9.95 each. is no easy task (for both the Bishop Kagan and My check is attached. me). I am called to be open to Bishop Kagan’s word and leadership. This will mean change, Name: ______but God calls me to change. Now, the new calendar year begins. In agri- Address: ______culture, change is constant. The survivors adapt to the changes. City, State, Zip: ______Within my own spirituality, God calls for me to adapt: to the new church year, the new Please mail this order form and your check to: translations, the new bishop and the new year. Diocese of Bismarck I hope I can be open to God’s word and his Office of Stewardship and Resource Development love—which he delivers through change. 520 N. Washington St. I hope to be a survivor. Care to join me? Bismarck, ND 58501 January 2012 Dakota Catholic Action •  Parishes God and Sex Refine Goals ur world thinks it understands have found in each other. It’s a celebration of sex. It doesn’t. Moreover it is this living, breathing thing that’s happening Parishes have been asked to evaluate, refine beginning to ignore and even between the two of them. and redesign Word, Sacrament and Service disdain how Christianity views In Bell’s view, sex inside of its proper con- goals. This process is occurring at the diocesan Osexuality. tainers (unconditional commitment, respect, level as well. And we are paying a price for this, mostly love) is designed to counter the brokenness In the previous year the diocese pursued without consciously realizing it: Sex, outside of our lives and the fragmentation of our “Catholics Come Home,” focusing on evangeli- of its proper containers, respect, uncondi- world. The ‘oneness’ experienced in sexual zation as a Word goal. tional commitment, and love, isn’t bringing embrace is meant to help bring ‘oneness’ The Sacrament goal more joy into our lives, but is leaving us into the world: This man and this woman focused on adoption more fragmented and lonely. Part of what’s who have given themselves to each other of the New Roman happening to us are supposed to give the world a glimpse of Missal. Strengthening is expressed in a hope, a display of what God is like, a bit of marriages has been a haunting line in echad [oneness] on earth. Is that where the focus in the Service Leonard Cohen’s phrase ‘making love’ comes from? An aware- initiatives. The plan- song, Famous Blue ness that something mystical happens in sex, ning process now Raincoat, where that something good and needed is created? leads to gathering new information about the a man reminds a Something is added to the world, given to friend of the conse- the world. This man and this woman togeth- Deacon Lynn Clancy current needs of our quences of his hav- er are in some profoundly mysterious way Office of Pastoral faith communities. ing had sex with a good for the wellbeing of the whole world. Planning What is changing and how do these changes woman to whom he And Bell is clear on the holiness of sex impact our strongly Father Ron Rolheiser was not committed: and how that in fact undergirds its unrelent- held values of human dignity, connection to And you treated ing grip: In heaven we will be fully known ... God’s love and stewardship? How well does our some woman to a Which is what people crave in sex, isn’t it? To way of thinking and acting meet the current flake of your life; and when she went home be known and still loved, still embraced, still external and internal reality of society? How she was nobody’s wife. Casual sex: A flake of accepted. Is sex in its greatest, purest, most can our faith community enhance pastoral vi- our lives. Frivolously given away. joyful and honest expression a glimpse of ability? Gathering the right information begins There’s a lot of sex in culture, but it isn’t forever? our new planning effort. taking a lot of people home, home to that Moreover he isn’t starry-eyed and naïve Next, we brainstorm options, the more the place where they feel fully respected, uncon- about what the grip of sex can do to us and better. ditionally safe, able to be themselves, com- how it can leave stains of regret on both fortable, and confident that the joy of their our innocence and our baptismal robes. He WORD love-making is making their hearts bigger, assures us that God knew how powerful sex • Education and Catechesis softer, more gracious, more joyous. was going to be and so built in space for • Evangelization With this as a background, I would like to some misadventures. He finishes the book SACRAMENT recommend a book, Sex God, by Rob Bell. He with a story of a dream-marriage of an ideal- • Sacramental Life is pastor of a Christian church in Michigan istic couple who, a few years later, break up: • Devotional Life and does something in this book that has I finish with this story because life is messy. SERVICE been often tried, but rarely done well. What Gut wrenching. Risky. Things don’t always • Ministry he does is take seriously the raw power, brute turn out well. Sometimes they don’t turn out • Marriage and Family earthiness, and befuddling complexity of sex at all. Sometimes everything falls apart and • Religious Vocations and sets that into an anthropological, bibli- we wonder if there’s any point to any of it. • Charity and Justice cal, and Christian perspective that properly We’re tempted to shut ourselves off, fortify • Parish Leadership honors both the earthiness and the holiness the walls of our hearts, and forge ahead, of sex. Unlike many Christian commenta- promising ourselves that we will never open It is apparent our Western North Dakota tors, he accepts, without denial, denigration, ourselves up like this again. But we have to counties are going through major demographic or pious encrustment, our sexual complex- believe that we can recover from anything. I and environmental changes. Our faith can help ity. But, unlike most secular commentators have to believe that God can put anything - us to manage these changes in ways that assure who do accept the full impact of our sexual anyone - back together. I have to believe that future generations will inherit communities, complexity but then lose sight of its deeper the God Jesus invites us to trust is as good as natural resources and opportunities as promis- meaning, he marries the earthiness and the he says he is. Loving .... Forgiving .... Merciful ing, (or even more rewarding), as those given to holiness of sex into a perspective that is at ... Full of grace. us. From the options developed in the brain- once both earthy and holy. Here are some The problem with sex is that the churches storming phase, our pastor makes goal choices examples of his insights: don’t take passion seriously enough, while and then everyone works together to imple- For too many of us, sex is a search for the world doesn’t take chastity seriously ment them. something we’re missing, a restless quest enough. Healthy sex is predicated on the vi- This planning cycle will help us to give at- for an unconditional embrace; and so we go brancy of both, passion and chastity, earthi- tention to the pastoral viability of our Catholic from relationship to relationship, looking ness and holiness. Rob Bell’s book honors faith community, discover ways we can work for this. But, as Bell suggests: Sex is not the that. together with other faith groups to assure we search for something that’s missing. It’s the ______have life-giving communities and to practice expression of something that’s been found. Father Ron Rolheiser, theologian, teacher, and good and faithful stewardship of the gifts God It’s designed to be the overflow, the culmina- award-winning author, is President of the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio, TX. He can be contacted through has given us. New parish goals are to be report- tion of something that a man and a woman ed to the diocesan office of pastoral planning by his website www.ronrolheiser.com. May 1, 2012.

Real Presence Radio Banquet 2012 Patrick Coffin Host of Catholic Answers Live Feb. 2 • Fargo at Ramada Plaza Suites Feb. 3 • Bismarck at Ramkota Inn Host a table and invite 8 friends, underwrite the cost of a table for $250, or attend on your own. Call 1-877-795-0122 to RSVP Meet one of the regular hosts on Your Catholic Radio Station and help keep programming available with your pledge of support!  • Dakota Catholic Action January 2012 Celebrating an Anniversary Restoration of Church Exterior is Nearly Complete By Loretta Johnson Evaluation time of the church for 79 years. The committee of Religion Editor, Minot Daily News More than two years ago a building commit- eight has been meeting with Vetter for more tee was formed to evaluate all the properties than a year and a half. ven as the red dust continued to of St. Leo’s: the church, the school, the com- “In those early days of the committee we settle, a celebration took place on munity center and the day-care building. The talked about what needed to be done the most Thursday, Nov. 10 — the feast day committee prioritized the needs of each facility in the parish and it was determined to focus on of St. Leo the Great — to mark and had experts in their field “really look at the the church itself,” Fisher said. “The committee the 125th year of St. Leo’s Catholic church,” Vetter said. The rectory had already decided to fix the church because if it wasn’t EChurch in Minot. been repaired in 2009. fixed we could lose it, and that would be a trag- The bell from the original church, built in “From the exterior the church looked like it edy.” 1889, had been restored and sounded a death was fine, but until we had someone really crawl toll 125 times, beginning at 7 p.m. Following around and see what shape it was in — First church that the spires were lit and more bells rang. some concerning issues with water damage The Rev. Joseph Raith was pastor when the There had been much activity at the church inside the church and we weren’t sure where it church was built. Fisher, who has compiled a since May. The red dust, a result of workers was coming from — we didnít realize how bad history of the church for previous anniversary cutting out the mortar between the bricks to things really were,” he said. celebrations, said “People thought Raith was re-point the church’s masonry, has now settled. Grace Fisher, a member of the building crazy and that he had grandiose ideas.” Raith committee at the church, has been a member was pastor of St. Leo’s from 1901 to 1941. Since then many, many souls have been baptized, confirmed, made their First Com- munion, married and buried from there, Fisher said. “I think restoring the church to the St. Leo’s Catholic Church is barely visible behind an vision that Father Raith had for it — to immense amount of scaffolding. Submitted photo. serve the people — and Father Vetter’s vi- sion will renew the church for the future,” Fisher said. A fundraising campaign was the first order of business for the restoration project, which cost about $3.5 million. Church mem- bers were contacted and asked to make three- year pledges toward the cost of the project.

Restoration Dave Cunnien, who is project superinten- dent for Building Restoration Corp., based in Minneapolis-St. Paul, said the Minot project is a complete building envelope restoration, which involves a new roof on the church and 100 percent tuckpointing, which means taking the white grout off the masonry and some of the old red mortar out and replacing it with the red mortar that matches the brick and the original historic mortar color. “That’s what the original mud was on the church when it was first built,” Cunnien said. “Our objective is to get the church back to as close as it was to its original form.” He added, “The roof that we are putting on it now matches what that roof looked like when it was brand new. The old roof had been painted. It had rusted and had holes in it in many locations. This new roof is pretty close to what the roof looked like when the church was first born.” The material for the roof and steeples is steel with an acrylic finish called Galvalume, a 55 percent aluminum-zinc alloy, which looks like a galvanized metal with a matte finish. A vestibule has been added on the southwest side of the church to deter inclement weather elements from entering the church. It also adds another handicapped entrance to the church. Other handicapped entrances include an eleva- tor at the northeast corner of the church and a ramp entrance on the southeast side of the church, where the glass curtain wall has been replaced with a brick facade. The ramp was part of the 1984 “Project Voice,” “Project Lift” and church remodeling project. The vestibule and facade were designed by Paul Kramer, an architect with Anderson, Wade and Whitty PC, of Minot, and also a member of the church. “This is really his project, his baby,” Cunnien said. “In essence, the project as a whole is his design and we are executing his plan.” The restoration of St. Leo’s Church has been a great undertaking for BRC. “It’s been a chal- January 2012 Dakota Catholic Action • 

lenging project,” Cunnien said. “We knew it It was during was going to be challenging going in and it that time that we was even more so than anticipated.” felt more strongly As the project nears completion Cunnien than ever, once is happy with the outcome. The building is we were able to “tight” for the winter and some of the work- be at peace with ers will be back in the spring to complete the that decision, that work. The number of workers on the job has this could be a varied. In addition to the Building Restora- wonderful sign tion crew, the masonry specialists, there were of new hope for roofing contractors, electrical, carpentry, downtown, Vetter insulators and painters on-site. The numbers added. ranged anywhere from 60 to 80 different Vetter said he actual craftsmen, Cunnien said. BRC tried to approached the incorporate as many local subcontractors as bishop and asked it could for the project. if lighted spires Cunnien praised the tradesmen, especially could be added to the BRC crew. He said their expertise and 60- project plans. “The hour work weeks were an incredible commit- bishop agreed ment on their part. when we told him Masonry experts from Building Restoration Corp. are “It was a real beehive of activity in August it was important tuckpointing the south steeple of St. Leo’s Catholic and September when we were really push- to show the people in a visible Church. Photo by Loretta Johnson. ing,” he added with a chuckle. “The scaffold way that we are not going any- in itself was its own project.” where,” he said. There will be eight lights on Major project the outside of the spires that will light them Chris Sachs, BRC senior project manager, from dusk until dawn. The pinnacles — the who is overseeing all aspects of the project, crosses at the very top of them — will be said, “This was a major project. There’s an gilded in gold and will be put up soon. incredible amount of work with lots of detail “When the light hits them it’s going to be a work. It’s been a challenging project that has beautiful sign and testament of hope,” Vetter been wonderful to be involved in.” said. “This isn’t our first flood; it isn’t our last There’s a night-and-day difference, he flood. God has seen it all. It’s new to us, but said. The old white grout over the mortar it is not new to God or to his church. The joints created wide, white fake joints has been church in her 2,000 years of history has been removed and new bricks, which were spe- through every imaginable disaster with her cifically manufactured for the project, have people,” he added. replaced more than 5,000 bricks which were “We’re not going anywhere and this is deteriorating. a powerful sign that we are stable, we are “The church now has a historic look with strong and we are going to be here for a long red brick and red mortar,” Sachs said. time to come. The church is with us, doing The church now appears as it did when it what she does, offering the sacraments, being was first built, Vetter said. a sign of new life, new hope, of reconcilia- “We went back to its original integrity and tion, of peace and refreshment that comes structure. We want it to last for another 100 only from God,” Vetter said. years and to keep the dignity of the building. The skilled workers have discovered beau- The Rev. , center back, baptized Hayden tiful, intricate metalwork, the detail work, and Dave Cunnien in early October in Minot. Their We believe they (the workers) have done a daughters, Charley and Aisley, will be baptized later in great job in keeping the integrity of St. Leo’s and are just amazed at it. It’s not visible to Minnesota. Submitted photo. Church. The exterior is just gorgeous,” Vetter many of us, but it’s there on the backside of added. spires ... all over the place ... that was simply He admitted, though, he had concerns done for the glory of God, Vetter said. “First and foremost, this project is for A ‘faith’ project when flooding was taking place in Minot. He By Loretta Johnson God so that his people can gather together had a meeting with BRC and asked if work Religion Editor, Minot Daily News to worship him and to be nourished by the could be stopped. Dave Cunnien and his wife, Hayden, sacraments, especially the Holy Eucharist. “It just didn’t feel right to continue the and their two daughters, Charley and The are at home in his house work when the rest of the town was strug- Aisley, ages 4 and 3, started attending and this is his house. We wanted to do the gling,” Vetter said. “And yet they told us, ‘We Mass in St. Paul, Minn., last fall and went very best for our dear Lord and we also knew can’t stop. We have too much cut out.’ It was about five or six weeks in a row. Last fall he we wanted to do it for the long term, not a important to get it (the grouting) all closed received a call from Building Restoration short-term fix. We want it to last well for the in before winter because if that didn’t happen Corp. project manager Chris Sacks, telling sake of the people,” Vetter said. the building could be lost,” he added. him of the restoration project at St. Leo’s in Minot. “I don’t work out-of-town because of my small family,” Cunnien said. He and his wife talked about the project and came to the conclusion that “This could be a call- Much of the scaf- ing. Maybe something divine is happen- folding had been ing. We decided it would be great to come removed at St. to Minot with one stipulation — that we Leo’s Catholic would come here as a family. Church, 218-1st “We actually started going to Our Lady St. SE, on Oct. 30. of Grace Catholic Church for the same Photo by Loretta Johnson. reason. We didn’t want anyone to think we were motivated by anyone here.” “Then when Father Vetter discovered that, he invited us to catechism classes. We were just pleased as punch because that was a goal of ours anyway. We have always thought of this project as divine in nature for us that we came here as a family.” Dave and Hayden were baptized in St. Leo’s Church in early October and will have their daughters baptized in St. Paul so more of their family members can be pres- ent. 10 • Dakota Catholic Action January 2012 Why Catholic Radio? By Chuck Huber time. It is now necessary that the same message because someone was Real Presence Radio be carried by the means of social communica- listening to Catholic In this age of high technology, why Catholic tion that are available today.” Radio. Catholic Answers, Radio? Some interesting results were revealed at In his talk to the Catholic Radio Association the very popular call the National Catholic Radio Association gather- the Most Reverend Joseph Naumann, Archbish- in program that runs ing held near the EWTN studios. op of Kansas City, stated, “One of the best tools during the evening drive From a recent survey of Catholic Radio lis- we have to evangelize our people is Catholic time hours was instru- teners, 94% said “I am more spiritually engaged Radio. Most Catholics receive their faith forma- mental recently in the and inspired,” 38% tion by the Sunday homily; a small percentage conversion of heart of the said “I’ve learned join the faith formation classes. Radio is able to manager of the Dallas, Texas, more about my faith bring some of the best Catholic teachers readily Planned Parenthood facility. from Catholic Radio accessible to our people on a daily, 24/7 basis.” She accidentally tuned than from any other He also stated that when he asks the people in into the local Catholic source,” 29% said “I RCIA what got them interested in joining the Radio station and began have come back to the church, someone always mentions Catholic to be convicted on what Church,” 48% said Radio! she was doing. As she “I attend Mass more In a 2011 Arbitron media study, they found listened more over the next often,” 52% said “ I that 93% of Americans still tune into radio on few months, she came to realize she could am more active in my a daily basis. The challenge is - which station no longer continue in this work. Praise God! Chuck Huber parish,” 63% said “ I do they chose! Herein lies a mission for us all. If you haven’t tuned in, please do so. Please am better equipped to For our priests to encourage the parishioners to pray for Catholic Radio. If called, please share pass on the Catholic Faith to my kids,” and 40% tune in, for the teachers in our parishes to let all your time, talent and treasure for this wonder- said “I tithe more.” Imagine the flame of faith know of this wonderful resource, for us in the ful and effective mission. You can if all Catholics in our area devoutly listened to pew to share with others the wonderful pro- find it at: Catholic Radio! What a perfect way to build gram we just listened to. • 1370 AM - Grand Forks, good stewards of our faith! On a more personal level, I am involved in • 1280 AM - Fargo-Moorhead, Pope John Paul II, the great communicator, this effort because I grew greatly in my faith by • 91.3 FM - Bismarck-Mandan, strongly encouraged the use of social media listening to EWTN radio through satellite radio • 91.1 FM - Minot, of all kinds to evangelize and spread the truth and prayed that someday it could be shared • 89.1 FM -Williston, of our faith and the Good News of our Lord free of charge, by those called to give, to all that • or www.YourCatholicRadioStation.com. Jesus. As he stated, “during His life on earth, cared to tune in. ______Christ showed himself to be the perfect Com- Every day Catholic Radio Stations across the Chuck Huber currently serves on the Real Presence Radio municator, while the Apostles used what means nation are hearing of wonderful conversions Board of Directors. of social communication were available in the and testimonies of suicides being prevented Study finds divide exists in how Catholics read church news By Mark Pattison reach them by pushing a print product in their mation being relegated to the diocesan website, Catholic News Service home than by inviting them to come to our more than twice as many answers were nega- WASHINGTON (CNS) — A Catholic Press website,” he said. “If you don’t put a print prod- tive than positive (39 percent to 18 percent) to Association-commissioned study showed that uct in the hands of a younger Catholic adult, such a scenario. Eighteen percent had neutral 26 percent of adult Catholics had read a print you have no way of reaching them, because you responses. “I think I was surprised” by the re- copy of their diocesan newspaper or magazine can’t force them to come to your browser.” sponse, he said. in the past three months, but only 4 percent “Younger folks are really not looking to the Gray said questions were asked in the study had gone to their computer to view the on- Web for religious content,” said Karen Franz, a about the use of social media. One key finding line version of the publication. The study also past CPA president and editor/general manager is that Catholics rarely included their religious revealed that readership of Catholic newspapers of the Catholic Courier, diocesan newspaper of beliefs. “It’s an interesting thing,” he noted, has held steady over the past six years, a far cry Rochester, N.Y. The CARA study also showed, since Facebook, the most popular social net- from the daily newspaper business, which has Walter said, that Catholics will spend nearly five working site, offers its users the chance to list recorded continuous declines in revenue, read- times as much time perusing a print product political party, workplace information, marital ership, advertising and employment. One area than a website — 17 minutes with print vs. status and others, but Catholics don’t include that showed a drop was Catholic readers’ aware- three-and-a-half minutes on a website. their religion, “given that the option is there for ness of nationally distributed Catholic news- Franz said the study needs close review by everyone.” papers and magazines. But, counterbalancing Matt Warner, who writes the “Fallible Blog- the low numbers of Catholics going to the Web ma” blog and is CEO of Flocknet.com, which to read their diocesan newspaper, there was a “We want to constantly be helps Catholic parishes and organizations enter marked increase in the percentage of Catholics a welcome visitor to someone’s the digital age, had a different interpretation of visiting their parish’s website, up from 9 percent the CARA study results. “One of the things I in a similar study in 2005 to 14 percent in the home with our books and our would hate for people to take from the study is 2011 study. newspapers and our magazines” that Catholics aren’t taking advantage of Catho- Both the 2011 and 2005 studies were con- lic new media as much as they would like to,” he — Penny Wiegert, editor of the Catholic Observer ducted by the Center for Applied Research in told CNS. “They’re not really using Catholic old the Apostolate at Georgetown University. The media either,” he said, adding there was only “a 2011 study was funded with a grant from the diocesan officials who say, “We’ll look to the slight preference” by respondents for Catholic Catholic Communication Campaign. “The dif- Web and abandon print and this will solve all “offline material.” Walter said the study pro- ferences between some of the religious market our problems.” Instead, she added, “it will make vides a snapshot. “This may not hold up as true and the secular market was something we were some new problems.” 10 years from now,” he said, “but I was look- curious about, and readership patterns showed “It’s certainly good news for those of us ing for information that would be true for 3-5 up very strongly in the print publications,” said who are in the niche of Catholic print journal- years.” Tim Walter, CPA executive director. “I was hop- ism,” said immediate past CPA president Penny Even so, many Catholic newspapers have ing that it would be verified, so I was pleased Wiegert, editor of the Catholic Observer, news- established a Web presence and are making ini- with the results.” The study gives solid evidence paper of the diocese of Rockford, Ill., and direc- tial forays into social media. “We have a pretty that Catholic newspaper readers are loyal to the tor of communication for the diocese. Mark M. heavy investment in Facebook and Twitter print format. Gray, principal author of the CARA study, said and what comes next,” said Franz. “Justifying CPA leaders have wrestled with how to ap- the jump in the use of parish websites “could all that is tough with staff time and energy is proach the hypothetical diocesan chief financial be related to more parishes going online. You’ve something you have a gut feeling is not paying officer who would argue that “you can put this got more Catholics who aren’t attending Mass any dividends. We don’t know at what point newspaper online and we can save a lot of mon- regularly, or attending the parish as much as in people are going to start looking to the Web or ey and it can be just as effective,” Walter told the past, finding out about Mass times or what social media for religious content. And we have Catholic News Service. “What it verified is that they need to do to get married in the church. to be there when that time comes.” “We want if you take away this print product, you don’t Parishes are providing (on their websites) an to constantly be a welcome visitor to someone’s have another communications tool to reach enormous amount of information.” He noted home with our books and our newspapers and them.” He said one surprising aspect of the that one question, asking respondents their our magazines,” Wiegert said, “even with our study was a finding about “millennials,” those reaction if they were told that the diocesan apps and whatever else it is we decide to do.” born in 1982 and later. “We were more likely to newspaper would stop publishing and all infor- January 2012 Dakota Catholic Action • 11 The Story of the Good Samaritan in 2012 scholar’s question. He reverses the roles, put- ting the scholar in the place of the victim. If you were the victim on the side of the road, ...we are to who would you consider a neighbor? In a ND sense, Jesus is telling us not to ask who is our neighbor or, if we must ask, we are to put our- put ourselves Catholic selves in the place of the person in need. A per- son truly in need does not care about the status, in the place “ Conference race, nationality, past acts, or even the visibility of the person giving help. When giving help, of the person Christopher Dodson we should try to do likewise. Executive Director Christ’s message is also relevant to the debate over the federal budget, especially with regards in need to foreign poverty programs. Tackling the Most of us know the story of the Good Sa- federal budget and deficit problems will require ditional cuts that would reduce these programs maritan, but we often overlook that Jesus told tough choices. Unfortunately, some proposals 20% from 2010 levels. Some programs would the story as an answer to a specific question. in Congress disproportionately impact the least face over a 40% reduction. Luke tells it this way: of our neighbors in poverty-stricken countries. Very few question the need to curb federal There was a scholar of the law who stood up Americans vastly over-estimate how much spending, but are these disproportionate cuts to to test him and said, “Teacher, what must I do we spend on foreign aid. Most think that foreign poverty and humanitarian programs an to inherit eternal life?” Jesus said to him, “What foreign aid accounts for 15% to 20% of the example of seeing “neighbor” in our eyes rather is written in the law? How do you read it?” He federal budget. When asked how much the U.S. than through the eyes of those in need? When said in reply, “You shall love the Lord, your God, should spend on foreign aid, Americans usually making cuts, is it just too easy to start with with all your heart, with all your being, with all say about 10% of the budget. Here’s the truth: those whom we will probably never see? your strength, and with all your mind, and your Less that one percent of the federal budget goes Food and aid organizations from different neighbor as yourself.” to foreign aid. Indeed, in Fiscal Year 2010 only faith traditions are asking Congress, especially He replied to him, “You have answered cor- about 0.6% of federal spending was for foreign the Senate, to treat everyone as our neighbor. If rectly; do this and you will live.” But because he assistance. cuts must be made, they should be made pro- wished to justify himself, he said to Jesus, “And Here’s another truth: This is real aid that portionally across the entire federal budget and who is my neighbor?” makes a difference in the lives of the poor, not not fall disproportionately on the world’s poor. Jesus tells the story of the Good Samaritan questionable assistance to governments or Contact Senators Kent Conrad and John Ho- and then asks the scholar: “Which of these imperialistic population control. It is aid that, even and ask them maintain the levels of life- three, in your opinion, was neighbor to the rob- when leveraged with charitable organizations saving poverty-focused international assistance bers’ victim?” The scholar answered, “The one like , literally saves lives. and to oppose any amendments that would cut who treated him with mercy.” Jesus said to him, In the zeal to reign in federal spending, these poverty-focused international assistance. “Go and do likewise.” programs already took an eight percent cut in Note that Jesus never directly answers the 2011. Now House leaders are proposing ad-

It’s a breakfast affair!

Come and join the fun. Have a breakfast with the best - You, your mom, daughter, goddaughter, granddaughter, grandmother, sister, or good friends.

It’s the 11th Annual MOTHER-DAUGHTER CELEBRATION

Saturday, February 11, 2012 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. Doublewood Inn, Bismarck, ND

Wear your favorite hat. Invite your favorite group. Make it an intergenerational, fun breakfast. MOTHER-DAUGHTER CELEBRATION REGISTRATION Name ______Join the fun with great food, great company, and a great speaker! Address ______$9.00 per person regardless of age. City ______State______

LIMITED SEATING, Zip______Phone ______SO REGISTER TODAY!! Number Attending: ______Call Joyce McDowall at 701-222-3035 or toll free 1-877-405-7435 Amount Enclosed: $ ______for additional information. Registration Deadline: Make check payable to Diocese of Bismarck February 7, 2012 and send to: FOR OFFICE USE ONLY Office of Family Ministry Joyce McDowall, Director Check #______Get all the ladies involved! PO Box 1137 You’re guaranteed a good time. Bismarck, ND 58502-1137 Amount $______12 • Dakota Catholic Action January 2012 A Simple Lenten Retreat Scheduled for March 3 Jesus went off to the desert to pray. In the spirit of Lenten prayer, women are invited to a day of spiritual reflection and renewal. “A Simple Lenten Retreat for Women” will be held March 3, 2012, at Christ the King Parish Center, 505 10th Avenue NW in Mandan. The topic of this year’s retreat is “How Can I Listen Forgive When I Can’t Forget?” Father Justin Waltz will speak. He is Chaplain of Bishop Up And Ryan High School and priest in residence at the Church of St. Leo in Minot. Laugh The retreat runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be con- fessions, Mass, and Health Benefits Fr. Justin Waltz adoration during the day. Breakfast and lunch are included in the Are Waiting registration fee. To pre-register, send your name, phone By Mark Underwood number, email address and $20 by February 27. After February 27, the cost will be $25. Mail registrations to: A Simple Lenten Retreat, 1145 Highland Acres Road, Bismarck, ND 58501. id you know a good dose of laugh- things you can’t do as well as you used to. May- For questions: [email protected] or ter can actually help your immune be you can’t turn cartwheels like you used to, [email protected]. system and decrease stress? Have but no matter what your age, you can look for you ever wished you could let go the humorous side of life. Laughter is a power- Dand laugh more often at the silliness of life? It ful tool. And it’s free to use anywhere, anytime. sounds easy but it’s not always possible, par- WANTED: ticularly if you’re facing ups and downs of life’s Laugh everyday because… challenges. But if you can lighten up and be Most of us don’t remember when we first more playful, you’ll give yourself the freedom to smiled, but you were probably smiling when have more fun. The good news is laughing has you were just a few weeks old. If you don’t built-in health benefits to boot. laugh out loud very often, don’t despair, you YARN Here’s another reason to laugh. It’s conta- can learn to laugh at any stage of life. gious. Have you ever wondered why some peo- Look for something to laugh about everyday ple tend to attract others? Look more closely. because you will automatically take yourself less It may be that they laugh easily and frequently seriously. Laugh everyday because it helps shift even when they are surmounting numerous perspectives, recharge your batteries, and stay challenges connected with their health and ag- focused. Laughter helps you feel less anxious ing. and sad. What’s more, having a good hearty Over 50 years of research back up the fact laugh at least once a day can help trigger better that positive social connections improve health relationships and stronger bonds with your outcomes and laughing is part of that equation. friends and family members. Laughing pro- If you admire people who age gracefully, you duces a high speed exchange of positive en- may have noticed they smile easily and seem to forcement between your brain and the people radiate a joy for life even though they probably around you. face an assortment of life’s ups and downs. Keep a “laugh kit around” Laughter for better health These are some ways you can treat yourself There’s no doubt about it laughter make you to daily doses of good humor. feel good, but research has shown that it also • Hang out with positive “kids” of all ages— helps boost immunity, relax muscles, decrease friends and family members from young to old, pain, ease anxiety and relieve stress. Think of children, grandchildren, and great-children. laughter as “internal jogging.” Laughter causes • Surround yourself with reminders that there is positive changes in brain chemistry by releasing a lighter side to life. For the inmates at the endorphins, and that brings more oxygen into • Put a funny cartoon somewhere visible in North Dakota State Penitentiary - the body with the deeper inhalations caused by your home where you start your day. to make items for others in need. laughing. Keep in mind laughter is more than • Watch a funny movie or TV show. just a temporary mood booster. It is a powerful • Play with a pet. tool that helps us find new sources of meaning • Read the funnies. Yarn can be dropped off at: and hope. It gives us strength in difficult times, and connects us to others. Positive emotions can reduce health risks. So Church of the Ascension Parish Office go ahead, create as many microseconds as pos- from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Giggle like a child sible of happiness-related chemistry. Laugh and Boost your mental outlook by acting like a you’ll improve your physical, mental and social Monday – Friday kid again. As you age, allow laughter, humor, health. 1825 S 3rd St, Bismarck, ND games and playfulness to your life. Daily humor ______

can help you feel more relaxed, creative and Mark Underwood is a neuroscience researcher, president OR joyful. Studies have shown that the average pre- and co-founder of Quincy Bioscience, a biotech company school child in the U.S. laughs about 400 times located in Madison, Wisconsin focused on the discovery and a day. As adults we laugh far less frequently. Ac- development of medicines to treat age related memory loss Church of Spirit of Life Parish Office and the diseases of aging. Mark has been taped as an expert cording to studies at Ohio State University the in the field of neuroscience for The Wall Street Journal Morn- from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. average adult breaks out and laughs only about ing Radio, CBS and CNN Radio among others. Mark is also a 15 times a day. If you can find a giggle in a situ- contributor to the “Brain Health Guide” which highlights the Monday – Friday research at Quincy Bioscience and offers practical tips to help 801 1st St SE, Mandan, ND ation, even for a few minutes, it will ease stress keep healthy brain function in aging. More articles and tips for and help you refocus on positive things. healthy aging can be found at www.TheGoodNewsAboutAging. As you age, you may feel there are many com. January 2012 Dakota Catholic Action • 13 What is a vocation? A vocation is a call from God who created you to share intimately in his inner life of love. National Vocation You are called to perfect love in union with God for all eternity! You live out this call by making a total self-gift of yourself in love. As you take up Awareness Week your cross and follow Christ, you lay down your January 9-14 life for him in love. Priesthood Some men are called to lay down their lives for the Church in the ordained ministry by the Sacrament of . These men stand in the person of Christ and serve their bride, the Church, by preaching, teaching, and celebrating the Sacraments. Permanent Diaconate United States Conference of Catholic Bish- ments, and service in community. Without this are ordained to assist the bishop and ops (USCCB) — The Catholic Church in the environment, promoting vocations becomes priests in the celebration of the divine myster- United States will celebrate National Vocation simply recruitment. We believe we have much ies, above all the Eucharist, in the distribution of Awareness Week (NVAW), January 9-14. The more to offer our young people.” Holy Communion, in assisting at and blessing celebration heralds a week dedicated to pro- People can visit the U.S. Conference of marriages, in the proclamation of the Gospel moting vocations to the priesthood, diaconate Catholic Bishops’ Facebook page (http://www. and preaching, in presiding over funerals, and and through prayer and educa- facebook.com/usccb) during the week to see in dedicating themselves to the various minis- tion. examples of clergy and religious. They also tries of charity. They are configured to Christ This distinctive week gives Catholics an can view reflections under the Vocation Re- who made himself the “deacon” or servant of opportunity to renew prayers and support for treat Tab where each day a scripture passage, all. those who are considering one of these particu- reflection and prayer will be posted. Resources lar vocations. for promoting National Vocations Awareness Consecrated Life “It is our responsibility to help children and Week, such as prayer cards, Holy Hour materi- Some men and women are called to be dedi- young people develop a prayerful relation- als, prayers of the faithful and bulletin-ready cated totally to God by embracing the evangeli- ship with Jesus Christ so they will know their quotes, are available on the USCCB vocations cal counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. vocation,” said Archbishop Robert Carlson of webpage at http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and- Some live in the world and are set apart by a St. Louis, chairman of the bishops’ Commit- teachings/vocations. special consecration, in secular institutes, as tee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations. National Vocation Awareness Week began consecrated virgins, or as hermits. Others are “Through a culture of vocation in families, in 1976 when the U.S. bishops designated the called out of the world, to live the religious life parishes, schools and dioceses, Catholics can 28th Sunday of the year for NVAW. In 1997, by professing the vows of poverty, chastity, and nurture an environment of discipleship, com- this celebration was moved to coincide with the obedience. mitment to daily prayer, spiritual conversion, Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which falls on growth in virtue, participation in the sacra- January 9 in 2012. Married Life Some men and women are called to give themselves to one another through the Sacra- Hearing the Call to the Diocesan Priesthood ment of Matrimony. They are called to bring How does a man know God is calling Degree before entering. their spouse closer to Christ through growth in him to be a priest? They are men of fidelity; they want an un- holiness, by making a total and faithful gift of themselves to each other and sharing in God’s God leads men’s steps to the seminary and divided heart for Christ. Their heroes are Pope creative work through the procreation of chil- to the priesthood in many mysterious ways; John Paul II and Mother Teresa of Calcutta. dren. however, some seem to be very common. Semi- They are not interested in fluff or watered down teaching; they loathe mediocrity. They want to narians often describe the call in words like, Who is God calling you to be? “Someway, somehow the thought of being a be challenged and encouraged to follow Christ priest entered my mind, and it didn’t go away. I with an undivided heart. The wide, easy road tried to ignore it, to avoid it, to run from it and does not appeal to them; they desire to follow to cover it. But in those quiet moments of truth, the road less traveled. when I was honest and unselfish, the thought They are prayerful. Along with daily Mass, Prayer for always came back.” Another common descrip- daily , praying the breviary, they spend tion of those who come into apply for the semi- an hour each day in quiet prayer. Faculty and Vocations nary is, “When I got to know the seminarians, I staff at seminaries have been challenged by the felt at home.” Or “When I visited the seminary students to increase prayer in seminaries. dearest Jesus, son of the for a weekend, it seemed like that is where I was They want to teach the truths of the Catholic eternal Father and Mary faith. They love to explain and help people un- supposed to be.” Immaculate, grant to Very often other people see the possibility of derstand the faith. Most of them went through O a vocation to the priesthood in the person and a religious education system that left much to our young people the generosity encourage him to think about it. God speaks be desired, but at some point they were taught necessary to follow your call, and through his people. In many cases, the man was the reasons behind our faith and it changed the courage required to overcome them. They wish to do this for others; they deeply influenced and invited by another priest. all obstacles to their vocation. Lastly, in every single case, the young man is believe the truth of the faith is contagious and given a deep love for the Eucharist, for the Mass attractive. Give to parents that faith, love and for the Church. Perhaps, he did not go to They are caring men. They have a real con- and spirit of sacrifice which will cern for others. There is a visible brotherhood Mass for years during college, but at some point inspire them to offer their sons Jesus in the Eucharist and the Church became and fraternity among them; they support each the center of his life. other, while maintaining a healthy sense of and daughters to God’s service and competition. They are men who are truly trying cause them to rejoice exceedingly What kind of men are thinking about to live a life that is not about them, but about whenever one of their family is God and others. and/or pursuing the priesthood today? They understand the importance of sacrifice. called to the religious life. First of all, a lot of men are thinking about it. If priests could get married, these men would In this past year, six new men have applied and Let your example and that of be less interested. Their thinking is this simple: been accepted by the Diocese of Bismarck, and your Blessed Mother and St. Joseph Jesus Christ, my Lord, was celibate; therefore, more than that number were not accepted. God it seems appropriate that his priests would be encourage both young people and is still calling many. celibate. The sacrifice of celibacy brings mean- parents and let your grace sustain They are more educated than ever before. ing to their lives. Eighty percent of those ordained in 2003 had them. They are men in Christ, men of the Church a Bachelor’s degree before their five years of and men for others. Amen. seminary education, and 30% had a Master’s 14 • Dakota Catholic Action January 2012 Evening Prayer January Aphorisms with Bishop Kagan So to create for you a moment, I will share You are invited to join Bishop Kagan for with you at this time of new beginnings, some Evening Prayer and a reception to meet and aphorisms. This way you know I am smart! welcome him as he begins his ministry as the We Are After all what is an aphorism? [a short, pointed seventh Bishop of Bismarck. The dates and sentence that expresses a wise or clever observa- locations are: amily tion or a general truth]. I hope you enjoy them • Tuesday, January 17, 2012 F and actually take time to reflect on one or two. Church of St. Joseph They may be short but I see them as everyday Williston Deanery gospels, ways of living out many of the com- • Thursday, January 19, 2012 mandments and some remind me of one in Church of Christ the King Joyce McDowall particular–Love one another as I have loved you. Bismarck/Mandan Deaneries Office Of Family Ministry • Tuesday, January 24, 2012 1. The nicest thing about the future Church of St. Wenceslaus is…that it always starts tomorrow. Dickinson Deanery Well, here I am a week late with my column 2. Money will buy a fine dog, but only • Thursday, January 26, 2012 and still pondering what I can share with you. kindness will make him wag his tail. Church of St. Leo Do I have bits of wisdom or holy revelations 3. If you don’t have a sense of humor, you Minot Deanery that can stir your heart to God in a deeper probably don’t have any sense at all. Evening prayer begins at 7:00 p.m. (local way? Have I encountered God in some special 4. A good time to keep your mouth shut time). Plesae join us. way this past month that gives me clarity as is when you’re in deep water. to whether what I am doing as wife, worker, 5. How come it takes so little time for a parent, grandparent, neighbor and friend helps child who is afraid of the dark to be- others to find their way to God? The answer is come a teenager who wants to stay out A Heartfelt I wish I did, but I do not. Some days I feel I may all night? share a glimmer of God’s goodness to others 6. Scratch a cat…and you will have a per- Thank You and some days I do not. manent job. By Joyce McDowall and Ron Schatz, I do hope and pray that we as a people on 7. There are no new sins; the old ones just New Bishop Planning Co-chairs the journey to God are learning and sharing get more publicity. It cannot be said often enough that our together our hopes and concerns to lighten our 8. There are worse things than getting a diocese is a Catholic community of extremely burdens and help us to say yes to God’s loving call for a wrong number at 4 a.m.-like, generous stewardship! It is with most grate- tenderness in our lives. That sometimes comes it could be the right number. when someone smiles and you are on the verge ful hearts we thank the many, many wonderful 9. Always be yourself because the people of tears — the smile lightens your heart. It may volunteers in every capacity for helping with that matter don’t mind…and the ones come when you see the relief on a person who the ordination of Bishop David D. Kagan. The that mind don’t matter. has walked in looking for a bus ticket in order liturgists, hospitality ministers, parish repre- 10. Life isn’t tied with a bow…but it is still to get a job and you can provide that help. It sentatives, host couples, ushers, reception and a gift! may come when you can take the time to listen environment planners; the furniture movers and reflect on what is happening in the mo- and haulers, the invitation and gift planners, ment instead of reacting due to lack of time. Have a blessed New Year. communication agencies and technical people; the clergy, dignitaries and special guests, those who took the opportunity to watch or listen through technology; the bus drivers and com- panies, the police and medical standbys; and more — thank you for making this first ordina- tion at our cathedral a truly memorable time. Over 300 volunteers gave of their time and talent in an outpouring of love for our new bishop. Among them were 75 choir members from 32 parishes, schools, and religious orga- nizations who really made the event a jubilant celebration.

Youth Activity Schedule

January 27-29, 2012 Search – Badlands’ Ministry Camp, Medora, ND

March 23-25, 2012 Search – Badlands’ Ministry Camp, Medora, ND

April 27-29, 2012 Search – Badlands’ Ministry Camp, Medora, ND

October 18, 2012 Senior High Youth Rally, TBA

November 21-23, 2013 NCYC ‘13 (National Catholic Youth Conference), Indianapolis, IN (again)

If you are interested in getting involved in any of these activities or want more information, please call Ken Roshau, Diocese of Bismarck Director of Youth Ministry, 701-290-4137. Let’s all get involved! January 2012 Dakota Catholic Action • 15 Calendar of Events celebrate Valentine’s Day with those important Jan 5: 1 Jn 3:11-21/Jn 1:43-51 UPCOMING EVENTS women in your life. Wear your favorite hat; join Jan 6: 1 Jn 5:5-13/Mk 1:7-11 PLEASE REMEMBER “Under the Twisted Cross” – January 7, the fun with great food, great company, and a Jan 7: 1 Jn 5:14-21/Jn 2:1-11 OUR DECEASED CLERGY 2012, 9:30 a.m. to noon (MT) A local woman featured guest presenter who will share some Jan 8: Is 60:1-6/Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6/Mt 2:1-12 shares her experience of writing a book on the of the many hats she has worn and how each Jan 9: Is 42:1-4, 6-7/Mk 1:7-11/Mk 1:7-11 on the anniversary faith, courage, and patriotism of her father, who of them has helped her on her faith journey to Jan 10: 1 Sm 1:9-20/Mk 1:14-20 was interned in a Prisoner of War camp in Nazi wholeness in life. Cost of the event is $9.00 Jan 11: 1 Sm 3:1-10, 19-20/Mk 1:29-39 OF THEIR DEATH Germany in World War II. Presenter: Margaret Jan 1: Rev. Theodore Roessler - 1963 per person for both adults and children and Jan 12: 1 Sm 4:1-11//Mk 1:40-45 Jan 2: Rev. Aloysius Bittman, OSB - 1973 Barnhart, at Sacred Heart Monastery, one mile you must be pre-registered. Call Joyce McDow- Jan 13: 1 Sm 8:4-7, 10-22a/Mk 2:1-12 west of Richardton, ND. To register, call 701- Jan 2: Rev. Joseph Schmidt - 1991 all at 701-222-3035 for additional information. Jan 14: 1 Sm 9:1-4, 17-19, 10;1/Mk 2:13-17 Jan 4: Rev. Bonaventure Goebel, OSB 974-2121. Suggested donation, $20 plus $8 Due to limited seating, registration deadline is Jan 15: 1 Sm 3:3b-10, 19/1 Cor 6:13c-156a, - 1941 for lunch. February 7. 17-20/Jn 1:35-42 Jan 4: Placid Hoernerbach, OSB Jan 16: 21 Sm 15: 16-23/Mk 2:18-22 - 1955 Vocation Weekends at Annunciation A Simple Lenten Retreat - Jesus went off Jan 17: 1 Sm 16:1-13/Mk 2:23-28 Jan 6: Rev. Adolph Dingmann, OSB - 1944 Monastery - Mark your calendar! January to the desert to pray. In the spirit of Lenten Jan 18: 1 Sm 17:32-33, 37, 40-51/Mk 3:1-6 Jan 9: Rev. Sigismund Lica - 1976 14-15, 2012 or March 24-25, 2012. The prayer, women are invited to a day of spiritual Jan 19: 1 Sm 18:6-9; 19:1-7/Mk 3:7-12 Jan 10: Rev. Henry Bosch - 1970 Benedictine Sisters of Annunciation Monastery, reflection and renewal. “A Simple Lenten Jan 20: 1 Sm 24:3-21/Mk 3:13-19 Jan 10: Rev. Florian Locknikar, OSB - 1944 Bismarck, welcome single women who feel God Retreat for Women” will be held March 3, Jan 21: 2 Sm 1:1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27/ Jan 11: Rev. S. J. Arsenault - 1925 tugging at their hearts to experience a week- Mk 3:20-21 Jan 12: Rev. Leo Herber, C.PP.S. - 1997 2012, at Christ the King Parish Center, 505 Jan 14: Rev. Clemens Dimpfl, OSB - 1935 end of Benedictine, monastic life. Enjoy this 10th Avenue N.W. in Mandan. The topic of Jan 22 Jon 3:1-+5, 10/1 Cor 7:29-31/ Mk 1:14-20 Jan 14: Rev. John Odermann, OSB - 2010 opportunity to spend 24-hours at Annunciation this year’s retreat is “How Can I Forgive When Jan 15: Rev. Victor Kreinbrink, C.PP.S. - 1982 Monastery, join the sisters in prayer, sharing I Can’t Forget?” Father Justin Waltz will speak. Jan 23: 2 Sm 5:1-7, 10/Mk 3:22-30 Jan 15: Rev. Humphrey Zdechik, OSB - 1955 and meals while reflecting on God’s call in your He is Chaplain of Bishop Ryan High School and Jan 24: 2 Sm 6:12b-15, 17-19/Mk 3:31-35 Jan 16: Rev. Adalbert Kraft, OSB - 1941 life. Maybe God is calling you to become a priest in residence at St. Leo’s Catholic Church Jan 25: Acts 22:3-16/Mk 16:15-18 Jan 16: Rev. James Ryan - 2003 Sister of Annunciation Monastery! There is no in Minot. Retreat runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Jan 26: 2 Tm 1:1-8/Mk 4:21-25 Jan 16: Rev. Othmar Steinhart - 1959 charge to attend. Pre-registration is required. There will be confessions, Mass, and adora- Jan 27: 2 Sm 1:1-4a, 5-10a, 13-17/ Jan 17: Rev. Henry Wibbels, C.PP.S. - 1958 For more information, please contact Sister tion during the day. Breakfast and lunch are Mk 4:26-34 Jan 18: Rev. J.B.M. Genin - 1900 Gerard Wald at 701-255-1520 or e-mail: voca- included in the registration fee. To pre-register, Jan 28: 2 Sm 12:1-7a, 10-17/Mk 4:35-41 Jan 21: Rev. Charles Backes - 1999 [email protected] send your name, phone number, email address Jan 29: Dt 18:15-20/1 Cor 7:32-35/ Jan 21: Rev. Austin Herrmann, C.PP.S. - 2007 and $20 by February 27. After February 27, Mk 1:21-28 Jan 21: Rev. Louis Telegdy, C.PP.S. - 1995 RETROUVAILLE: Retrouvaille will be held the cost will be $25. Mail registrations to: A Jan 30: 2 Sm 15:13-14, 30; 16:5-13/ Jan 23: Rev. Henry Hess, C.PP.S. - 1976 January 20-22, 2012 - in Bismarck for strug- Simple Lenten Retreat, 1145 Highland Acres Mk 5:1-20 Jan 23: Deacon David Vaughn - 2010 gling couples with aftercare sessions provided. Road, Bismarck, ND 58501. For questions: Jan 31: 2 Sm 18:9-10, 14b, 24-25a, 30; Jan 24: Rev. Leopold Ruemenapp - 1960 [email protected] or pattiarmstrong@ 19:3/Mk 5:21-43 Jan 25: Rev. Valentine Sommereisen - 1897 Retrouvaille is an intense weekend experience Jan 30: Rev. Peter Fehrenbach, OSB - 1949 for couples in a hurting marriage. Registra- mac.com Jan 30: Rev. Maximillian Herber, C.PP.S. tion is limited. All participants must pre-reg- Pray for the Priests, - 1967 ister with a $100 nonrefundable deposit, “The Psalms: Jesus’ Prayer Book” Jan 30: Rev. Evaristus J. Olberding, C.PP.S. and the location of the weekend is given at – March 3, 2012, 9:30 a.m. to noon, (MT). Religious and - 1967 that time. For information go to retrouvaille. Learn about the history of the Psalms, and Jan 31: Rev. John Lukach - 1996 org. To register for the weekend call Joyce at how they were the prayer of Jesus and his an- Deacons serving Jan 31: Rev. Adrian Mundt, OSB - 1977 Office of Family Ministry 1-701-222-3035 or cestors. The Psalms can continue to nourish our diocese Jan 31: Rev. Justic J. Schweizer, OSB - 1967 1-877-405-7435. Retrouvaille is sponsored our own prayer today. Presenter: Sr. Phoebe An invitation from the Serra Clubs by the Diocese of Bismarck and is open to any Schwartze, OSB, at Sacred Heart Monastery, married couple struggling in their relationship one mile west of Richardton, ND. To register of the diocese: CALENDAR regardless of faith denomination. call 701-974-2121. Suggested donation $20 Jan 1: Rev. Shane Campbell plus $8 for lunch. Jan 2: Rev. Julian Nix, OSB SUBMISSIONS Second Annual Mandan Catholic Schools Jan 3: Sr. Hildegarde Urlacher, OSB Jan 4: Deacon Tony Finneman Breakfast: Sunday, January 22, 2012, 8:00 Annunciation Monastery (Bismarck), Jan 5: Rev. Paul Cervinski DEADLINE: The Dakota Catholic Action is AM – 1:00 PM, Spirit of Life Church, 801 First Spiritual Enrichment – The Benedictine Jan 6: Deacon Leonard Fischer published monthly except for July. Material Street SE, Mandan. Hot Breakfast will be Sisters of Annunciation Monastery offer a Jan 7: Rev. Valerian Odermann, OSB deadline is noon the first Friday of the month served by Councils from variety of ongoing opportunities for spiritual Jan 8: Bishop David Kagan for the following months’ publication (ex: first Spirit of Life and Christ the King Free Will Of- enrichment including: directed retreats, quiet Jan 9: All Lay Ministers Friday in January for the February issue of fering – proceeds benefit Catholic Education. time for reflection, spiritual direction, group Jan 10: Sr. Hannah Vanorny, OSB the DCA). Recurring or ongoing events must retreat/reflection and outreach programs/ Jan 11: Rev. Joseph Chipson be submitted each time they occur to be Real Presence Radio Announces Annual speakers. For more information please call: Jan 12: Deacon Michael Fix included. Banquet Fundraiser in Two Locations: Sr. Gemma, 255-1520 Jan 13: Bro. Alban Petesch, OSB February 2 Ramada Plaza Suites of Fargo Jan 14: Deacon Donald Nistler ACCEPTED MATERIAL: Brief notices of February 3 Ramkota Inn of Bismarck Jan 15: Sr. Frances Marie Voight, SMP upcoming events hosted by diocesan parishes With Guest Speaker and Host of Catholic The Sunday MasS Jan 16: Rev. Biju Chitteth and institutions. Items are published on a Televised each Sunday on KNDX FOX 26: space available basis. Answers Live: Patrick Coffin. The event is a 10:00 a.m. & 11:35 p.m., and on ABC Family: Jan 17: Seminarians and Religious in Formation fundraiser for the network of 5 Catholic radio 5:30 a.m. Paid for in part by your generous do- Jan 18: Deacon Randall Frohlich stations extending across North Dakota and nations to the annual God’s Share Appeal. Jan 19: Bro. Aelred Reid, OSB SUBMITTED ITEMS MUST INCLUDE: into Minnesota. Attendees can host a table Jan 1: Solemnity of Mary Jan 20: Sr. Madonna Wagendorf, OSB For consideration each event must be listed and invite friends, underwrite the cost of a Jan 8: Epiphany of the Lord Jan 21: Rev. Michael Taras Miles individually and include: table of 8 for $250, or attend on their own. Jan 15: 2nd Ordinary Sunday Jan 22: Rev. William Cosgrove *Time and date of event Attendees must RSVP by January 15, 2012 by Jan 22: 3rd Ordinary Sunday Jan 23: Sr. Ann Schoch, SSND *Full event description including related times calling 1-877-795-0122 Jan 29: 4th Ordinary Sunday Jan 24: Rev. Gerald Ruelle, OSB *Complete address of event venue Jan 25: Sr. Mary Walker, OSB *Contact information of individual responsible Mother Daughter Breakfast Celebra- Jan 26: Rev. Joseph Deichert for submitted material tion: Saturday, Feb. 11, 2012, 9:30-11:00am Scripture Readings Jan 27: Deacon Donald Gion – Doublewood Inn, Bismarck. This 11th Annual Jan 1: Nm 6:22-27/Gal 4:4-7/Lk 2:16-21 Jan 28: Sr. Annette Dobitz, SSND E-mail: [email protected] event, sponsored by the Diocese of Bismarck Jan 2: 1 Jn 2:22-28/Jn 1:19-28 Jan 29: Rev. Claude Seeberger, OSB Mail: DCA Calendar, PO Box 1137, Office of Family Ministry, is a wonderful way to Jan 3: 1 Jn 2:29-3:6/Jn 1:29-34 Jan 30: Sr. Faith Wanner, SSND Bismarck ND 58502-1137 Jan 4: 1 Jn 3:7-10/Jn 1:35-42 Jan 31: Rev. Thomas Dignan NFP Quick Reference Guide ~ Diocese of Bismarck “I knew my husband loved me, but NFP helped me realize how much he cherishes me!” For more information contact Amanda Ellerkamp, NFP Coordinator at 701-590-2837, [email protected]

Some Practical Benefits of OVULATION (Mucus-only) Methods: SYMPTO-THERMAL Methods, cont.: Natural Family Planning (From “God’s Plan for a Joy Filled Marriage”) Jana Heen Scott & Jen Johannsen Creighton Model Fertility Care System, Bismarck Couple to Couple League, Minot The following are true of all modern NFP methods 701-222-3035, ext.126 701-837-9768 offered through the diocese: [email protected] [email protected]

• NFP is safe and has been clinically proven to be 98-99% Tara Rohrich (Cost for a 3-class series in CCL is $135. effective at avoiding pregnancy when used properly. It is Creighton Model Fertility Care System, Bismarck Materials included. You may search for upcoming also very effective in helping couples achieve pregnancy. 701-222-3035, ext.126 classes and register online at www.ccli.org ) [email protected] • Modern methods of NFP are not to be confused with Priscilla & Bob Keogh the older “rhythm method.” This method was less Kelli Schneider NFP International, Dickinson effective because it depended upon the regularity of a Creighton Model Fertility Care System, Bismarck 701-483-9630 woman’s cycle. 701-222-3035, ext. 126 [email protected] [email protected] • Modern methods of NFP are based on the readily ($70 for 3 class series, including materials) observable signs of fertility present in each cycle Sandy Tibor (primarily cervical mucus, but also temperature, changes Creighton Model Fertility Care System, Dickinson in the cervix, and other signs). So any woman regardless 701-590-0425 Physicians Supportive of NFP: of the regularity or irregularity of her cycles can use NFP [email protected] effectively. Laura Archuleta, MD (Cost is approximately $250 for full course of instruction.) St. Alexius Center for Family Medicine, Mandan • NFP is in no way contraceptive. It does not work against 701-667-4600 or 1-877-530-5550 God’s creative design for sexual intercourse, but works in complete accord with it. SYMPTO-THERMAL Methods: Danuta Komorowska, MD, MPF, & TM Great Plains Clinic, Dickinson • NFP has no harmful side effects. Kevin & Tammy Martian 701-483-6017 Couple to Couple League, Mandan • Surveys indicate that couples who practice NFP have 701-471-1549 Louise Murphy, MD a practically non-existent divorce rate. Why? Because [email protected] Mid-Dakota Clinic – Gateway, Bismarck NFP fosters authentic marital love, respect, honesty, 701-530-6243 and communication. It promotes an authentic marital spirituality and deepens the couple’s relationship with Updated 12-20-11 Christ and his Church. NFP is marriage insurance! DAKOTA ATHOLIC CTION CVolume 71, Number 1 The Catholic Voice forA the Diocese of Bismarck January 2012

KEYNOTE SPEAKER John O’Leary

THURSDAY, FEB. 2 McDowell Activity Center Catholic Schools Week: January 29 - February 5 2012 10 AM Registration 11 AM Keynote - John O’Leary Bismarck: † ST. MARY’S CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL 12 PM Lunch - on campus † CATHEDRAL GRADE SCHOOL 1 PM Workshops † SAINT ANNE SCHOOL 2:15 PM Mass - on campus † ST. MARY’S GRADE SCHOOL  Dickinson: † TRINITY HIGH SCHOOLST. MARY’S CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL REGISTRATION INFORMATION: † TRINITY ELEMENTARY UNIVERSITY WEST OF MARY CATHEDRAL GRADE SCHOOL • $10 admission fee includes lunch † TRINITY ELEMENTARY EAST  SAINT ANNE SCHOOL • U-Mary students/faculty are free  ST. MARY’S GRADE SCHOOL Fort Yates: • Register on the day or online: † ST. BERNARD  MISSION SCHOOL www.umary.edu/prayerday  TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL Mandan:  TRINITY ELEMENTARY WEST  † CHRIST THE KINGTRINTIY SCHOOL ELEMENTARY EAST For more information † ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL  call Kristi Wanner at 355-8102  ST. BERNARD MISSION SCHOOL or email [email protected] Minot:  † BISHOP RYAN HIGH SCHOOL † LITTLE FLOWER ELEMENTARY  CHRIST THE KING SCHOOL Williston:  ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL

† ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL  BISHOP RYAN HIGH SCHOOL  LITTLE FLOWER ELEMENTARY

   ST. JOSEPH SCHOOL 