Serving the People of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Volume 37, Number 11 * May 29, 2011 Graduation 2011 Clockwise: Bishop McGuinness grad Brooke Shewmaker celebrates at the end of graduation May 17; Andrew Horn, Matt Thomason and John Lewis in their caps and gowns for graduation from Conception Seminary; Mount seniors toss their hats after graduation; St. Gregory’s grads walk to graduation. 2 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 What Have We Learned Since 2002? Sooner Catholic In the aftermath of the clergy the extent of harm inflicted by abuse Most Reverend sexual abuse crisis which erupted in and an unrealistic confidence in the Paul S. Coakley 2002, the United States Conference prospects of an abuser being “cured” “Put out Archbishop of Oklahoma City of Catholic Bishops commissioned through psychological treatment. into the Publisher the John Jay College of Criminal Today we more clearly understand deep and Justice to undertake two inde- and unequivocally affirm that any pendent studies to investigate this form of child abuse is an unspeak- lower Ray Dyer disastrous betrayal. The first study, able affront against the dignity of a your nets Editor examining The Nature and Scope of human person. Moreover, the sexual for a Sexual Abuse of Minors by Catholic abuse of a child by a priest, deacon or catch.” Cara Koenig Priests and Deacons, was published any Church worker bears an added Archbishop Layout/Photographer/ Luke 5:4 in 2004. The second study, examining weight of gravity because it involves Coakley Special Projects The Causes and Context of Sexual the betrayal of a sacred trust. Abuse of Minors by Catholic Priests Though even one incident of the For instance, it did not find that and Deacons in the United States, sexual abuse of a single child is 7501 Northwest Expressway celibacy was a contributing factor was released on May 18 of this year. wholly unacceptable, the number of Oklahoma City, OK 73132 in any way. The sharpest rise in It should be clearly noted that these priests accused of abuse was not reported incidents occurred during (405) 721-1810 Fax: (405) 721-5210 are reports for the bishops, not by the found to be any greater than the the 1960s and 1970s and then e-mail: [email protected] bishops. number of abusers in the general dropped sharply in the mid-1980s. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 32180 These studies represent an population or in any other organiza- Those were years of great turmoil unprecedented self-scrutiny, unique tion. We are grateful for the 96 Oklahoma City, OK 73123 and upheaval both in society and in among institutions which serve percent of our priests who have the Church. Societal factors, such children in the United States or any- served faithfully. We are ashamed by as the sexual revolution, increased Visit us online through the where. We bishops thought it the criminal and sinful actions of the frequency of divorce, a sharp rise in Archdiocesan Web Page at necessary to undertake these studies 4 percent who have brought such drug abuse, as well as civil and social in order to understand the full extent sufferings upon victims and their www.catharchdioceseokc.org. unrest all parallel the pattern and of the problem and to ascertain families. As a bishop and priest, I time frame of the spike in sexual whether we are responding appropri- share a deep pastoral concern for abuse of children and young people The Sooner Catholic (USPS 066-910) is ately to protect our children and each innocent victim and as well as by clergy. published biweekly except for once in July ensure that this sort of violation for those priests who have been and twice in December by the Archdiocese never happens again. wrongly accused and whose reputa- The great majority of the reports of Oklahoma City. The report indicates that the tions have been diminished or of abuse across the United States Church’s failure to prevent the abuse destroyed. There have been many received in the last few years took of minors occurred for a variety of kinds of victims throughout this place more than 25 years ago. One of The newspaper is not responsible for reasons. During the period when period. the reasons that may account for the unsolicited material. most of the abuse occurred, there The results of the Causes and relatively few incidents of abuse in Copyright © 2011 Sooner Catholic was certainly a lack of adequate Context study indicate that there is the 21st century has been the great reporting mechanisms. There also no single cause to account for the emphasis which seminaries now was a lack of understanding about sexual abuse of children by clergy. continued on Page 3 Subscription rate: $20 per year for all who are not members of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Archbishop Coakley’s Calendar Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma City, OK 73125. The following events are part of Archbishop Coakley’s June 6 — Catholic Foundation of Oklahoma Inc. Golf POSTMASTER: Send address changes official calendar. Tournament Reception, 4:30 p.m. to the Sooner Catholic, P.O. Box May 29 — Confirmation, St. Andrew Dung-Lac Church, June 6 — Thursday, June 9, Clergy Days, Catholic 32180, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. 11 a.m. Pastoral Center May 30 — Mass at Resurrection Cemetery, 8 a.m. June 9 — St. Ann Retirement Center Board Meeting, May 31 — Mass at Catholic Pastoral Center, 11:30 a.m. Catholic Pastoral Center, 8 a.m. June 1 — Vocations Board Meeting, Catholic Pastoral June 10 — Mass for Curriculum Conference attendees, Center, 10 a.m. Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School Chapel, 8:30 June 1 — Thursday, June 2, Catholic Extension Society a.m. Board Meeting, Chicago, Ill. June 11 — Legion of Mary Mass, Catholic Pastoral June 3 — Mass and Dinner, Equestrian Order of the Center, 11 a.m. Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, Christ the King Church, June 11 — Confirmation, Cathedral of Our Lady of The Sooner Catholic is 5:30 p.m. Perpetual Help, 5 p.m. supported through the June 5 — Confirmation, Holy Name of Jesus Church, June 12 — Confirmation, St. Peter Church, Woodward, 1 Archdiocesan Development Fund. Chickasha, 10 a.m. p.m. May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 3 John Jay Reports No Single Cause, Predictor of Clergy Abuse WASHINGTON — A landmark nary preparation for priesthood is John Jay. “Through its extensive this crisis, all the while quietly study by researchers at John Jay associated with the continued low processes of data collection and sta- serving with honor and self- College of Criminal Justice of the levels of child sexual abuse by tistical analyses,” she said, “the sacrifice every day of their lives.” City University of New York, which Catholic priests in the United researchers found that the crisis of The way forward for the bishops examined the causes and context States, she said. sexual abuse of minors by Catholic must be marked by humility and of the clergy sexual abuse crisis in The Causes and Context of priests is an historical problem.” partnerships with others, Bishop the U.S. , concluded Sexual Abuse of Minors by Catholic She added that “researchers Cupich said. “The shame of failing that there was no single cause Priests in the United States, 1950- also concluded that much of what our people will remain with us for a or predictor of sexual abuse by 2010 report by a John Jay College has been implemented through the long time. It should. Its sting can Catholic clergy. The report added research team, was made public Charter is consistent with a model keep us resolute in our commit- that that situational factors and May 18 in Washington. Terry pre- response to the prevention of child ments and humble so as to never opportunity to abuse played a sented the report to Diane Knight, abuse. However, this in no way forget the insight we came to significant role in the onset and CMSW, chair of the National should lull us as a Church into com- nearly a decade ago in Dallas. We continuation of abusive acts. Review Board, a group of lay placency.” cannot do any of this on our own.” “The bulk of cases occurred Catholics who oversaw the project, The Charter for the Protection Established in 1964, John Jay decades ago,” said Karen Terry, and to Bishop Blase Cupich of of Children and Young People was College of Criminal Justice of The Ph.D., John Jay’s principal investi- Spokane, Wash., who chairs the adopted by the U.S. bishops in 2002 gator for the report. “The increased U.S. Bishops Committee on the and has guided their response in City University of New York is an frequency of abuse in the 1960s Protection of Children and Young dealing with sexual abuse of minors international leader in educating and 1970s was consistent with the People. by clergy. for justice. It offers a rich liberal patterns of increased deviance of The study also found that the Bishop Cupich found hope in arts and professional studies society during that time.” She also initial, mid-1980s response of the documented progress that curriculum to upwards of 14,000 stated that “social influences inter- bishops to allegations of abuse was shows that “what we are doing undergraduate and graduate sected with vulnerabilities of indi- to concentrate on getting help for works” in addressing child sexual students from more than 135 vidual priests whose preparation the priest-abusers. Despite the abuse. He said that the inability to nations. In teaching and research, for a life of celibacy was inadequate development by the mid-1990s of a predict individual sexual deviance the college approaches justice as an at that time.” Terry also said that comprehensive plan for response “makes the safe environments applied art in service to society and neither celibacy nor homosexuality to victims and the harms of sexual programs valuable and necessary.” as an ongoing conversation about were causes of the abuse, and that abuse, diocesan implementation He added that “the Catholic Church fundamental human desires for priest candidates who would later was not consistent or thorough at has taken a position of zero fairness, equality and the rule of abuse could not be distinguished by that time. Yet, the decrease in inci- tolerance of any cleric who would law. psychological test data, develop- dence of sexual abuse cases by sexually abuse a child.” The report can be found mental and sexual history data, clergy was more rapid than the “Such a position protects at http://www.usccb.org/mr/causes- intelligence data, or experience in overall societal patterns. children,” he said. “But it also and-context-of-sexual-abuse- priesthood. The development of hu- Knight, a social worker from protects the tens of thousands of minors-by-catholic-priests-in-the- man formation components of semi- Milwaukee, lauded the work of priests who have suffered greatly in united-states-1950-2010.pdf. What Have We Learned continued from Page 2 efforts in this area. We have put in the future. A recent circular letter the Church in the Archdiocese or place on what is called human and in place structures and procedures from the Congregation for the elsewhere. We continue to pledge our spiritual formation. There is a much designed to create safe environments Doctrine of the Faith in Rome assistance and resources in helping stronger emphasis on preparing for children and young people, to has mandated that Episcopal these victims to heal, in responding seminarians to live priesthood in a provide safe environment training Conferences throughout the world promptly to new reports of abuse and healthy manner and developing a for clergy, staff and volunteers who put into place guidelines which will preventing such occurrences in the strong affective maturity. work with children, and to conduct help bishops deal with instances future. Finally, I regret the scandal criminal background checks on all of abuse. We hope that our efforts One of the clear findings of the that these horrendous acts have who work with children and young in the United States since 2002 can study, and of great importance for caused to many members of the our Church and society, is that the people. A Code of Conduct for all be a model for such guidelines in faithful whose confidence in the best way to protect children from who minister to children outlines other nations, even as we continue Church they love may have been abuse is to create safe environments appropriate ways to work with these to review and improve our own at where appropriate boundaries be- treasured members of our churches. home. shaken during this dark period. I tween adults and children are main- These efforts and many other In the name of all of the clergy, believe that we are now moving tained. Though sexual abuse of procedures mandated by the U.S. religious and faithful of the Arch- beyond the crisis and that the minors is a societal problem and not Bishops Charter for the Protection of diocese of Oklahoma City I apologize Church today, though chastened and a challenge unique to the Church, we Children and Young People are very to any person who has been abused purified by this experience, is indeed in the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City important in educating our people by any priest, deacon, religious man a very safe place for children and are committed to continuing our and ministers and preventing abuse or woman, volunteer or employee of young people. 4 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 Immigration Issue Discussed at St. Monica Forum By Steve Gust as Bishop in Salina, Kan. The young values and controlled by the Pope in “For the next 19 years there will For the Sooner Catholic man had expressed an interest in the Rome. be 10,000 new people added to Social EDMOND — An immigration priesthood, but was scared of his legal Today, King said, about 11 per- Security a day.We need more workers forum, at St. Monica’s Parish May 12, status. He had been in America since cent of Americans can trace their and more people to pay the taxes,” she covered plenty of ground — providing a toddler and spoke English with no ancestry to the Irish. It is usually a said. a wealth of information and illiciting accent. Yet the thought of deportation struggle for immigrant groups to Frank Lipsinic of Christ the King a few strong emotions. If there was was real for him. achieve full legal status, she said. Parish probably set off the most emo- one consensus to the evening, it was “The church sees each person as a “Blacks didn’t attain full citizen- tional response of the night — noting there was probably not going to be a divine gift,” Archbishop Coakley said. ship in America until the 1965 Civil the new workers wouldn’t be needed quick fix to the sometimes heated He added that within the past 10 Rights Acts,” King said. if “America hadn’t aborted 55 million issue. years, American Catholic bishops had In another example of a first- babies since Roe v. Wade in 1973.” The forum featured six panel Staying on the economic theme, speakers, including Archbishop Derek Sparks, manager of govern- Coakley. After introductions by “The church sees each person as a divine gift,” mental relations of the Greater Marka Acton and a prayer by Father – Archbishop Coakley. Oklahoma City Chamber, said Ray Ackerman of St. Monica’s, the Oklahoma should realize a strong crowd of 155 heard from Archbishop anti-immigrant law could have a Coakley. negative impact on job creation. He He told the forum the church and said sovereign nations have a right person account of the struggle, cited the fallout Arizona has received Scripture instructs us to deal with to protect borders and the “church Gabriel Carreon of St. Monica’s noted since its anti-immigration law was immigration and immigrants with doesn’t support breaking laws.” the hardships many face in their put on the books. love and compassion. He said the He further stated the issue was native lands. “The canceled conventions in dignity of the person always has to be one for the laity. “Here in America I can earn in a Arizona have led to a $388 million respected. In the Bible, he noted the “The church doesn’t legislate half an hour what it would take me negative economic impact,” he said. struggles Israel had in its immigra- laws,” he said. all day to earn,” he said — looking And Sparks said 3 percent of tion from Egypt as well as Mary, Kris King of the Oklahoma back at his 21-year immigration Oklahoma’s current labor force is Joseph and Jesus in their early Sponsoring Committee reviewed the struggle. He noted it’s also dangerous undocumented workers. travels — looking for safe haven. history of immigration in America. in some of these nations from which The status of new possible anti- “Work is a natural right,” Arch- In the 19th and early 20th people flee. immigrant laws was discussed by bishop Coakley said. “It’s an expres- century, millions of Irish came to “It’s amazing I’m even here to Catholic Charities lawyer Richard sion of human dignity.” America — many the result of the speak with you,” he said. “I could have Klinge. He said the original 32 He also noted Pope Benedict’s great potato famine. been shot easily.” anti-immigrant bills filed at the visit to America in 2008 — when the “There was a great reaction Dianne Wigley, also of St. beginning of the just completed Holy Father urged us to welcome against the Irish and Catholics,” she Monica’s and the Oklahoma legislative session had now been immigrants — noting it wasn’t only a said. Some of that included the cre- Sponsoring Committee, said there is reduced to one and its passage was in church tradition, but an American ation of the Know Nothing party. It sound economic reasons for advocat- doubt, he said. The law actually died tradition to accept peoples from other was empowered by popular fears that ing immigration. Social Security later in May when the House voted it lands. the country was being overwhelmed needs more workers to pay into the down. Archbishop Coakley cited the case by German and Irish Catholic immi- system to help support the pay- Klinge said while reviewing of a young man he knew while serving grants, who were often regarded as ments to Baby Boomers, who will possible statues, he wondered if the hostile to Anglo-Saxon Protestant receive Social Security. laws met the “human dignity test.” White House Follows Bishops’ Recommendation on Haitian Immigrants WASHINGTON, D.C (CNA) — natural disaster to remain and work money back to a country hit hard by deportee died of cholera in a Haitian The U.S. Catholic bishops expressed to support their families.” disease and natural disasters. jail, but resumed in April 2011. appreciation on May 17 for the The administration’s decision “The re-designation of TPS to “We remain troubled by the Obama administration’s decision to will extend Temporary Protected Haiti will preserve the flow of much- resumption of deportations to Haiti,” extend the “Temporary Protected Status, or TPS, for another 18 needed remittances to that stricken said Bishop Kicanas, noting that Status” of Haitian immigrants, months, beginning on July 23. It will country,” he said. He said these the country may be “ill-equipped in keeping with the bishops’ own apply to Haitians who entered the money transfers from friends and to handle them” in a manner recommendations. United States up to one year after relatives were “vital to bolstering that would respect prisoners’ human “It is simply the right thing to the earthquake that struck the the fragile Haitian economy and dignity. do,” said Archbishop Jose H. Gomez, island on Jan. 12, 2010. supporting the national recovery.” More than a million Haitians the U.S. bishops chairman on migra- Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of However, both bishops are remain homeless due to last year’s tion. “This action will permit those Tucson, Ariz., chairman of Catholic concerned about deportation of some earthquake, and there are fears that who entered the United States in Relief Services, noted that many individuals back to Haiti. The depor- the coming rainy season will worsen the aftermath of a devastating of these immigrants were sending tations stopped temporarily after one the ongoing cholera epidemic. May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 5 CFO Seeks Educator of the Year Award Nominees OKLAHOMA CITY — Over the can submit a nomination form for of St. Philip Neri Church, Midwest past seven years, the Catholic a worthy individual. Nominees The City, and Dana Hoffman of St. Foundation has recognized should be classroom educators or Eugene Church, Weatherford. outstanding educators in the catechists in youth, confirmation, Catholic The winner of both awards will Archdiocese as an extension of its RCIA or adult education/formation Foundation receive a $500 cash prize and their focus on education. Each year the programs. On the Religious parish/school will receive a $5,000 Foundation awards the Catholic Education side, the nominated educational grant. There will also School Educator of the Year and catechist must be an unpaid Mary Swymeler of St. Philip Neri be a reception held at the winner’s the Religious Education Educator volunteer. The 2011 Awards will School, Midwest City, and Coleen parish/school in their honor. The of the Year. be presented in September and Linke of St. Eugene School, finalists received a $250 cash These exceptional award re- nominations must be received in Oklahoma City. prize. cipients are recognized for their the Catholic Foundation office by The Catholic Foundation is significant contribution to the Wednesday, June 15, 2011. Likewise, in 2010-11, Amalia honored and grateful to all of the Catholic education process in both For the year 2010-11, Donna Gensman of Holy Family Church, teachers and religious educators Catholic Schools and in Religious Holmes of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Lawton, was recognized as the within the Archdiocese. Nominate Education programs within their School, Edmond, was recognized as recipient of the Religious an outstanding educator before the parish. Nomination forms were the recipient of the Catholic School Education Educator of the Year June 15 deadline. recently sent to pastors, school Educator of the Year Award. Award. Finalists for the Religious Call the Catholic Foundation principals and directors of Finalists for the Catholic School Education Educator of the Year Office at (405) 721-4115 for a Religious Education, but anyone Educator of the Year Award were Award were Deacon James Young nomination form.

Seminary Burses A $250 donation was made to the Father A $500 donation was made to the Father Joseph Father James A. Kastner Seminary Burse by Beltran Seminary Burse by an anonymous donor. Seminary Burse Holy Family Church, Lawton. $10,820 A $250 donation was made to the Father Joseph A $260 donation was made to the Father Beltran Seminary Burse by Christ the King Bishop Stephen A. Leven Stanley Rother Seminary Burse by the Church, Oklahoma City. Seminary Burse Stephen Ministry of St. John Nepomuk Church, $64,628 Yukon. A $185 donation was made to the Father Joseph Beltran Seminary Burse in memory of Father John A. Petuskey A $100 donation was made to the Father Rosalie Miller. Stanley Rother Seminary Burse by Mr. and Seminary Burse Mrs. Leroy Montano Sr. from Guymon. Father Joseph Beltran $11,850 Seminary Burse A $150 donation was made to the Father $99,425 Father Clement E. Pribil Stanley Rother Seminary Burse by the Seminary Burse Oklahoma Catholic Women’s Conference Inc. Father Stephen Bird $6,351 Seminary Burse A total of $11,000 donations were made to the $11,200 Father Stanley Rother Father Stanley Rother Seminary Burse in Seminary Burse memory of Mike Stroud; Father Denis Blackledge $207,797 $10,000 from the family of Mike Stroud; Seminary Burse $500 from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, $8,337 Archbishop Charles Salatka Calumet; Seminary Burse $500 from friends. Father Wade Darnall $185,970 Seminary Burse A $650 donation was made to the Father $10,545 Stanley Rother Seminary Burse from the Father John Scheller proceeds from Jamie Biller’s Father Larry Gatlin Seminary Burse “The Shepherd Cannot Run” CD. Seminary Burse $10,000 $10,000 A $200 donation was made to the Father Joseph Father Gerald Ucker Beltran Seminary Burse by Father Bernard J. Havlik Seminary Burse Mr. and Mrs. Henry Cebulski. Seminary Burse $10,098 $51,710 Totals as of 4/30/2011 6 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 Saint’s Daughter Proposal to Withhold Care To Address End From Babies Called Unethical of Life Panel KANSAS CITY, Mo. (CNA) — ROME, Italy (CNA) — A father has the shock and stress of actually practicing Dr. Wilkinson’s The youngest daughter of St. proposal to allow premature or sick being faced with a very premature radical approach, he pointed toward Gianna Molla will join Cardinal newborn babies to die even when baby. When you’re in such pain and recent research in Canada suggest- Raymond L. Burke in addressing their life would be deemed worth stress, you’re not really free to ing that newborn babies are now a Kansas City conference on living by medical staff has been make clear-minded decisions that receiving less guarantees of treat- Catholic end-of-life care on July condemned by a leading member of 23. the Pontifical Academy for Life. Dr. Gianna Emanuela Molla’s Doctor Carlo Bellieni says the mother was declared a saint in suggestion being made by Oxford- “Firstly, babies are not the property of 2004 by the Catholic Church and based physician James Wilkinson their parents.” – Dr. Carlo Bellieni is known for her heroism in is both “flawed” and “an erroneous choosing a risky operation to way of considering life.” save her daughter’s life when she Dr. Wilkinson outlines his was two months pregnant. The controversial argument in the are so important for your offspring.” ment than adults. “It’s a very sad conference marks the first visit to American Journal of Bioethics. “The Most importantly, Dr. Bellieni scenario. I believe that babies the United States for St. Gianna’s prevailing official view is that said, “The decision about life should should receive more care than other daughter. treatment may be withdrawn only only be taken on an objective basis patients but many philosophers The conference, titled “Being if the burdens in an infant’s future and in the interest of the patient, now believe that newborns are not Faithful, Even Unto Death,” will life outweigh the benefits. ... I not in the interests of a third persons and so they actually are address medical issues surround- conclude that it is justifiable in party.” receiving fewer guarantees than ing those suffering and those some circumstances for parents and Dr. Bellieni, who is a director older people.” at the end of their lives. The doctors to decide to allow an infant of the Neonatal Intensive Therapy “Even when burdens do seem to St. Gianna Physician’s Guild or- to die even though the infant’s Unit at Siena University Hospital, be high, for example in the case of ganized the conference. life would be worth living,” Dr. is internationally recognized as an severe disability, this is not a suffi- “With the help of Cardinal Wilkinson wrote. expert in the field of neonatal care. cient reason to withhold lifesaving Burke, we have assembled ex- But as Dr. Bellieni explained to In addition to being a member of treatments. After all, a disabled perts in all areas of medicine, law, CNA, such a suggestion makes for the Pontifical Academy for Life, he baby has a full right to life too,” Dr. and the Catholic Church to bad ethics and poor patient care. is also the Secretary of the Bio- Bellieni stressed. analyze and explain the proper “Firstly, babies are not the property ethics Committee of the Italian “Dr. Wilkinson claims that the and obligatory way to provide of their parents. Secondly, at birth Pediatrics Society. prevailing clinical view is contrary Catholic care to the most vulner- parents are often stressed and full Although the Italian neonatalo- to this. If that is the case, then able and those who are dying,” of pain and suffering. The mother gist said he doesn’t know whether it’s very worrying indeed and we said Thomas McKenna, the has the pain of childbirth. The hospitals in the Western world are cannot possibly accept such a view- guild’s founder and president. Pro-Life Group Asks MTV to Reconsider Ad Pull AUSTIN, Texas (CNA) — Heroic However, the ads — which around the United States, including Planned Parenthood. Media is hoping MTV will have a provided practical information for Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of Eisner added that MTV did not change of heart and reconsider women with unexpected pregnan- New York. inform Heroic Media its ads had pulling a pro-life ad campaign from cies — were pulled after one airing. Although MTV claims that the been canceled, and that the pro-life its airwaves. MTV spokeswoman Jeannie billboard is the main reason behind group reportedly found out after “Heroic Media has asked MTV Kedas told Fox News that the net- the cuts, Bill Eisner — head of being contacted by a reporter. to reconsider the decision and work cut the ads because of a Nonbox, a brand agency represent- Despite having its spots allow Heroic Media and other or- controversial billboard campaign in ing Heroic Media — argues that the canceled, Gabrysch said, “Heroic ganizations to make women aware New York City by a group with real issue is the ads’ conflict with Media remains committed to airing of the availability of life-affirming connections to Heroic Media. some of the promotions between the positive messages that connect resources,” group spokeswoman On Feb. 22, pro-life group Life network and Planned Parenthood. women with hopeful alternatives to Marissa Gabrysch told CNA on May Always displayed a prominent bill- Although the television network abortion.” 24. board depicting a young black girl has denied the connection, Eisner “Everything Heroic Media does The Texas-based pro-life group beneath the phrase “The most says one of his network sales repre- is designed to reach women where recently announced its We Can Help dangerous place for an African sentative confirmed that MTV they are,” she added, noting that campaign, which was set to air for American is in the womb.” The ad president Stephen Friedman chose when a woman learns “about several weeks on the MTV and BET was removed within days, despite to nix the ads because of the compassionate, positive alternatives networks, starting May 2. the protests of pro-life supporters projects currently in place with to abortion, she’ll choose life.” May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 7 Mount, Irish Graduates First To Receive Medal In late 2009, an organization was created with its mission being to recognize young people who commit themselves to defending our nation right out of high school. The Veterans and Patriots of Oklahoma is the name of the organization. It consists of veterans and patriots. A medal, originally called the “Military Torch Medal,” was es- tablished in the late spring of 2010 by founders Ken Provost and Bob Lambert as a tool to recognize young adults who made the decision to join the military upon completion of high school. Later, the name was changed to the “Military Spirit Medal.” The medal was to be presented to high school senior students who have committed their immediate futures to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces follow- ing graduation. The newly established Military Spirit Medal was presented for the first time this month to students at six high schools in the Oklahoma City area. The 2011 Military Spirit Medals Military Spirit Award being presented to Mount graduates Joshua Babb, Jacque Kennedye, Jakob Jones and Bryan were awarded at Bishop McGuinness Wilson. High School to Molly Hatch, Army Reserves; at Star Spencer High School Choctaw High School to Lawrence Kramer, Navy; Symphonie McKillip, Provost, Mike Skolaut and Tony to Brianna Peery, Army, and Luis Bartling, Navy; Alexandria Carson, Air Force; and Brandon Weeks, Wangler. Gonzales, Air Force; at Jones High Army National Guard; Kyle Franchi, Marine Corps. To learn more about how you can School to Cedrik Conrad, Navy; at Navy; Aaron Heck, Marine Corps; Local veterans who presented support this effort, call Bob at (405) Mount St. Mary High School to Brian Navalta, Marine Corps; Steven the Military Spirit Medals to the 672-7728 or Ken at (405) 760-3886. Joshua Babb, Naval Academy; Rolland, Marine Corps; Desirae first recipients of the honor were You may also contact the Veterans Jacqueline Kennedye, USN Acado Simmons, Air Force; at Harrah High Laurann Donahue, Liam Donahue, and Patriots of Oklahoma by mail at Prep; Jakob Jones, Air Force; Bryan School to Derek Baez, Marine Corps; Charles Gamble, Ralph Gosselin, P.O. Box 15376, Oklahoma City, Wilson, Air National Guard; at Summer Donaldson, Navy; Courtney David Koelsch, Bob Lambert, Ken Okla. 73155. Catholic Schools Help Swell Ranks of Easter Converts WASHINGTON (RNS) — With Catholic Church typically receives In many dioceses, just one or two the faith well and consequently new less than two weeks to go, fifth-grader thousands of new members in the children became Catholic. But some people are joining the church.” Simone Marshall ticked off what she United States. archdioceses reported they came by At St. Augustine, the school day was looking forward to most as she This year, Simone was one of more the dozens — 100 in Philadelphia, 76 ends with a child’s voice on the public awaited the Easter Vigil where she than a dozen children from St. in Miami and 74 in Baltimore. address system asking fellow students would officially become a Roman Augustine who donned purple robes The Catholic ethos of the schools to “please stop for a moment and get Catholic. for their baptism, and then changed — regular Masses, prayers and reli- ready for the afternoon prayers.” “I cannot wait to get baptized so I into white robes for their first gious education — prompt non- Students’ drawings of the Stations of can be born again and I can be closer Communion. Catholic students to consider conver- the Cross line the main hallway,which to Jesus,” she said, dressed in her Across the country, Catholic sion, often when they come from un- ends at a statue of the Virgin Mary, plaid school uniform from St. schools have become non-traditional churched or Protestant backgrounds, draped in a purple scarf for Lent. Augustine Catholic School. “I cannot mission fields for the large number of students and staff say. In the Archdiocese of Oklahoma wait to receive the blood and body of non-Catholic children who enter their “That’s just kind of the perfect City, at least 41 students, 60 parents Jesus.” doors. More than 700 non-Catholic setting for people to be receptive and eight teachers became Catholic Last year, 19 non-Catholic students, parents and staff joined the to the faith,” said Karen Ristau, last year. At this year’s Easter Vigil in children at St. Augustine entered the church last year, according to an president of the NCEA, based in Oklahoma City, 15 students, three Catholic Church at the elaborate vigil informal survey by the National Arlington, Va. “They build these teachers and 28 parents joined the the night before Easter, when the Catholic Educational Association. wonderful communities, they teach church. 8 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 Mount St. Mary High School Class of 2011

Andrew Flores Anna Therese Anthony Joshua Daniel Babb Aguilar Marquette University United States Naval OSU-OKC Academy-Full Scholarship

At senior robing May 16, on the left is student James Peake and his mother, Angela Peake. On the right is student Bianca Ponce de Leon and her mother, Bradley M. Beahan Aren Kristen Brewer Soo-Young Chae Norma Ponce de Leon. OU OSU-OKC UCO

Christianna K. Clark Zachary Tanner John Austin Cowan David Andrew Crall Clayton James Cromer Siying Dai Maryland Institute College Collums OU OSU Texas A&M University Northeastern University of Art OSU Salutatorian (Boston)

Bryce J. Davis Phillip Charles Davis Ethan Holloway Day Rebecca Ann Denny Christopher Steven Jonathan Michael UCO Southern Methodist Rose State College OSU — Full Scholarship Eldridge Fairchild University — Valedictorian Oklahoma City University OSU May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 9 Mount St. Mary High School Class of 2011

Lucia Rose Fitzmorris Brittanie Faye Hurley Joseph Fry Logan Douglas OU — Valedictorian Forsyth OU Furgeson OSU OU

Andrew Michael Devon Irl Hastings Devon Hastings and Camila Lang walking out of Kaitlyn Nicole Housh Alexander Braden Garvey Rose State College graduation at St. Mark’s in Norman. UCO Hughes UCO UCO

Jacqueline Elizabeth Jakob R. Jones Thomas J. Krug Autumn Hailey Jones John Ross Kastner Kennedye — Naval Academy Camila Alejandra United States Air Force Conception Seminary Oklahoma City OSU Preparatory School Lang-Rivera College University Full Scholarship UCO

Emily Katharine Lee Elias Jacob Marsee Nathanael Luke James Brandt Kyle Benjamin Micah Brittany Miller St. Gregory’s OU Martinez Mayfield McGoffin St. Gregory’s University University UCO OSU OU 10 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 Mount St. Mary Class of 2011

Shane Sidney Maddison Mollman Sydney Taylor Misialek UCO Monday UCO UCO

Andy Garvey poses for a photo during the Mount’s senior farewell assembly Austin C. Murrah Megan Marie Nash Theresa Thien-Thanh OU OU Nguyen as his mother, Connie Garvey, prepares to robe him. OU

James Marion Niles Gabriela Niño Landon Chase O’Shea Jessica Pando Michael Parizek Jacob Andrew Peace OSU OU OU UCO OSU-OKC New Mexico State University

James Vincent Peake Bianca Ponce de Leon Rachel Pulver Angelica Marie Ramos Elizabeth Ann Chad Austin Rives UCO OSU-OKC Rose State College University of Texas Rischard UCO (Corpus Christi) Marquette University May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 11 Mount St. Mary High School Class of 2011

Cole Gregory Amy Rodriguez Ryan Matias Rosas Soo Kyung Ryu Robinson OU UCO University of OU Washington (Seattle)

Emily Taylor and Rachel Pulver pull double Ryan Joseph Santa- Melanie Marie Reginald Damon Anthony Louis Pinter Scherer duty as graduates and band members at Smith Jr. Tasetano OSU OU graduation. NOC Stillwater Southwestern College

Emily Fern Taylor Blayne Trevor Stephen A. Trujillo Victoria Dolores Vasquez Victoria Ann Vaughn Morgyne E. Weaver OU Theunissen Francis Tuttle Northwest Vista OU Wellesley College UCO Technology Center (San Antonio)

Amanda C. Wesselhoft Juanita Elizabeth Bryan Wesley Wilson Cody Taylor Tae-Suh Yun Jennifer M. Zapata UCO Williams OU Woodward OU UCO Oral Roberts University OU 12 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 Rockets 2011

Above, Anthony Tasetano helps Ryan Santa-Pinter with his tassel before graduation May 21. At right, Micah Miller receives congratulations from her family.

2011 Mount St. Mary Legacy

Second Generation Zachary Collums — Dawn Williams Collums, ’85 Bryce Davis — John Hall, ’89 Brittanie Forsyth — Tommy Forsyth, ’86, Becky Ashworth Forsyth, ’88 Elias Marsee — Teresa Jaime Marsee, ’75 James Mayfield — Grandparents, Barbara Forrester Brandt Schwarz, ’55, Leroy Brandt, ’55 Shane Misialek — Missy Sherer Cramer, ’82 Maddison Mollman — Charlotte Schumacher Mollman, ’54 Chad Rives — Sherri Toby Stupka, ’82 Cole Robinson — Greg Robinson, ’80 Third Generation Jacque Kennedye — James Kennedye, ’87, Christy Wise Kennedye, ’87, Marian Flanagan Keef, ’67 Nathanael Martinez — Philip Martinez, ’83, Myra Mollman Martinez, ’85, John Mollman, ’56 Valedictorians Lucy Fitzmorris and Phillip Davis. Micah Miller — Cliff Miller, ’89, Kay Wenthold Miller, ’64 May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 13 IRISH Class of

Valedictorians Valerie Kastens and Grace Johnson hug after they give their 2011 combined speech.

Courtney Thurman, ’09, and Mallory Thurman, ’05, robe their brother, Chad Thurman, at the senior farewell assembly.

Kurtis Kunz, Carter Hood and Dean Fitzpatrick.

Katie Massad, Sicily Splitt and Principal David Morton and Brian Smith, ’05, present the 2011 Brian Smith Cameron Collins. Award to three graduates, Rachel McLemore, P.J. Allen and Tyler Frederickson. 14 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 Bishop McGuinness Class of 2011

Abigail Ann Akin Phillip James Scott Michael Brooke Atherton OSU Allen, IV Archer OSU OSU OU

Julia Peacock, Chase Reeser and Josselyn Davis pause for a photo Tessa Anne Breanna Lene Dylan Tamerlane Izza Paige Bennai at the senior farewell assembly. Bastida Beaver Bellmard OSU OU UCO UCO

Ethan Beck Amy Leigh Bosley Blake Ryan Elizabeth Ann Katherine Ross Blake Owen Brett Lee Caesar Berney, Colorado Bethany College Brennan Brown Brown Burgess OSU School of Mines Undecided Notre Dame Texas Christian OSU

Nicholas Samuel Caroline Love Mary Beth Ashleigh Lauren Matthew Kyu Matthew Edwin Chelsea Elizabeth Callaway Cameron Elizabeth Canfield Chiaf Chul Choi Clausen Coffey OU OU OU University of Missouri Dartmouth OSU Lehigh University

Madeline Patricia Cameron Jones Dustin Leroy Kylie Rosemary John Dale Nicholas Edward Gabriel James Coffey Collins Combs Conner Crowder Cudjo Cummings OU OU UCO OU OSU OSU UCO May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 15 Bishop McGuinness Class of 2011

Sara Cathyrn Josselyn Ann Andrea Leigh Collin Morgan DillonBlake Aaron Tyler Duncan Tyler Joseph Daugherty Davis Dougherty Douglas Drosselmeyer University of Duncan Baylor University OU OU OU Regis University Mississippi OSU

Haley Hope Abby Mae Tiffany Ann Sara Rose Figueroa Adam Alexander Dean Christopher Lillian Victoria Evans Ferguson Fernandez Art Institute of Fitzgerald Fitzpatrick Flannigan Regis University UCO UCO OSU OU OU

Andrew Thomas Jacob Tyler Francis Kerry Thomas Barrett Tyler Gray Chelsee Ericka Olivia Suzanna Fleet Floresca Frantz Frantz Frederickson Freeman Glazner OSU OSU OU OU OCCCC Undecided University San Diego

Elizabeth Anne Alexis Elaine Goff Alexa Nicole Gonce Ashley Marie Steven Brundige Cenayda Elena Jerome Francis Goetzinger Oklahoma Baptist Texas Christian Graham Grossman, Savannah Guzman, St. Rose, Haag, IV OU, Salutatorian University University UCO College of Art & Design New York Undecided

Molly Clare Hatch Ashley Nicole Hess Hallie Elizabeth Paige Constance Pia Alexa Joan Elizabeth Carter Markham OU UCO Hickman Hilton Hinahon Holmes Hood University of Arkansas UCO UCO Undecided OU 16 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 Bishop McGuinness Class of 2011

Eryn Morgan Andrew Mark Grace Iras Johnson Gunner Brock Irvin Jackson University of Tulsa Joyce, Oklahoma Undecided OCU Valedictorian Wesleyan University

J.T. Southard, Maddie Smith and Ashton Slatev process out of Valerie Renee Zoe Alise Kent Phillip Han Kim Bryan Edward graduation May 17. Kastens, OU Beloit College - OU King Valedictorian Wisconsin UCO

Parker Wayne David William David Jacob Robert Cain Kurtis Philippe Chad Joseph Mary Ellen Rose Klingenberg Krahl Krenger Kumler Kunz Kwasny Lacher Undecided OU OU OU OU UCO Newman University

Kenny Nguyen Dakota Bing Alexa Jane Catherine Mackenzie Erin Julia Lucas Ashley Michelle William Frederick Lam Leftwich Lienhard Loeffler OSU Lutter Lutz OCCCC UCO OU University of Arkansas OSU OU

Sean Robert Matthew Charles Tyler Joseph Jessica Meaghan Katie Alexis Madelyn Louise Sarah Michelle Marshall Martin Martin Mass Massad Maxwell McAnulty OSU OSU McPherson College OSU OU Undecided OCU May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 17 Bishop McGuinness Class of 2011

Susannah Grace Tyler Leah Jessica Ann Zachary Tyler Alexandra Claire Rachel Catherine Pierina Solange McCabe McClellan McCord McCurdy McGowen McLemore Melendez University of Arkansas NOC/OSU OU Platt College OSU Oklahoma Christian Undecided

Giovanna Nicole Charles Benjamin Garrett Patrick Alexandra Flora Megan Lynne Matthew William Victoria Kelly Migliaccio Milam Milner Montoya Moore Morrissey Moyer OU St. Gregory’s OSU Oklahoma Christian OSU OSU OSU

Brennah Murphy Devin Murphy Colin Andrew Kevin Connor Theresa Louise Nash Ashley Renee Amy Quynh Tulane University OCU Murray Murray Colorado State Newburry Nguyen OU DePaul University University OSU OU

Frank Thai Chau Steven Nguyen Tam Nguyen Katherine Isioma Kelechi Nicholas Kyle Emily Anne Nguyen SWOSU, OCCC Courtney Nix Nwokolo O’Hara Oliphant OU Weatherford OSU OU OSU OU

Trinian Lark Julia Elizabeth Claire Maria Pedulla Matthew Taylor Devin Nicole Greyson Anthony Ashley Ann Quick O’Neil Peacock Benedictine College Perry Pinaroc Psencik UCO OU Texas Christian OU Vanderbilt University OU 18 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 Bishop McGuinness Class of 2011

Chase Allen Gillian Bethany Duncan Cole La Rone James Matthew Andrew Crosby Larry David Ross Reeser Ressler Reynolds Richardson Ritz Roberts UCO Undecided OSU OU NOC/OSU OSU OU

Stephanie E. Roy Madelyn Maguire William Ryan Zachary Carter Cole Hamilton Christina Lynne HyeJin Seong OSU Rupert OSU Sanchez Sanders Schleider Penn State Wake Forest OSU OSU University of Arkansas University

Brooke Alexandra Jillian Nicole Ashton Blake Alexis Denay Colleen Flynn Madeline Jane Jonathan Tylar Shewmaker Shewmaker Slatev Smith Smith Smith Southard Undecided Fort Lewis College Dartmouth University Missouri OSU OBU OCCC

Andrew Feller Sicily Diane Anthony Joseph Rayna Suzanne Young Seok Sur Austin Taylor Stuart Louis Spidell Splitt Stancampiano, Jr Stem Texas A&M Swink Symes OSU OU Undecided UCO UCO Connors State

Kaleb Aaron Chad Ellis Rachel Renee Lillian Tuyen Kathleen Dianne Mary Katherine Bruce Anthony Thornton Thurman Tonseth Tran Trivitt Tyler Umali Rose State College OSU OU OU OU Baylor University NOC/OSU May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 19 Bishop McGuinness Class of 2011

James Gavin Christopher Ashley Morgan Marcy Anne Amy Renee Ward Robert Chadwick Jamaal Rashad Vater Michael Volz Voss Wallace OSU Waters Whitney OU UCO OSU OSU OSU East Central State University

Michelle Diane Elizabeth Marie Calvin Behrendt Erin Lindy Wolf Marissa Elaine Brittany Lea Wiggins Williams Williams UCO Wolf Yanchick Hendrix College OSU Loyola Marymount OSU OCU Irish Honor Lil Ross With Alumni of the Year Award OKLAHOMA CITY — Bishop McGuinness parish. She has also served on the auction Catholic High School has bestowed the 2011 committee for Bishop McGuinness, and organized Alumni of the Year Award to Mary Lillian (“Lil”) her class’ 50th reunion in 2006, as well as the All- Ross. Class reunion in 1990, which marked the school’s Lil is a 1956 graduate of Bishop McGuinness, 40th anniversary. Lil was also instrumental in who has been a tireless supporter of both the McGuinness’ $9.5 million capital campaign from school and other charitable causes in the central 2004-2006, which transformed the school’s main Oklahoma area for decades. Lil attended St. Mary’s academic building. College in Notre Dame, Ind., and graduated with a Her most recent focus has been as a breast bachelor’s degree from the University of Oklahoma cancer awareness advocate, serving on the in 1960. With her husband, Bill, she has been the Community Advisory Board at the University of parent of three other McGuinness graduates, Oklahoma Breast Institute, of which she was Rebecca (’81), Molly (’92), and Bob (’92). president in 2009-2010. The list of organizations Lil supports with her The Alumni Association of Bishop McGuinness time and talent is lengthy. An incomplete list Catholic High School is proud to add its Alumni of would include her service with Junior League of the Year Award to Lil’s long list of well-earned Oklahoma City, as well as a volunteer and board recognitions, and is thankful for her longstanding member of both the YWCA and United Way of commitment to both the school and its spirit within Oklahoma City. Lil has also carried on a longstand- the community. ing family tradition in benefiting the Volunteer League of St. Anthony’s Hospital, chairing its Saints Ball fundraiser in 2000, among other duties. One of her special passions has been the support of orchestral music within Oklahoma, and in support of that art form she has served since the early 1980s both in fundraising and leadership McGuinness Alumni of the Year Mary Lillian Ross. capacities with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic Foundation and the Oklahoma City Orchestra impressive. Lil is a longtime member of the League. Community Development Committee of Catholic Her service to both McGuinness and the Charities of Oklahoma, and has served on both the Mary Lillian Ross receiving her award at this year’s broader Catholic community has been no less Parish Council and School Board for her home graduation from alumni president Bill Tunell. 20 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 St. Greg’s Celebrates 96 Years of Catholic Education SHAWNEE (May 7, 2011) — St. Gregory’s Cashion: D’anthony Scott Cavazos University celebrated its 96th commencement Chickasha: Joshua Neal Kirksey, Sloan Woods exercise Saturday inside W.P. Wood Field House. Parsons, Claris Kathleen Periman Bachelor’s degrees were conferred on 86 graduates Choctaw: Katie Marie Carlaw, Yuyu Denny with an additional 29 receiving associates degrees Claremore: Mark Edward Botkin and nine receiving master’s degrees. Edmond: Steven Lane Courtney, James David The Reverend Don Wolf, pastor of St. Benedict Harper, Leah Marie Harper, Matthew Travis Church in Shawnee and chair of SGU’s board of Tasetano directors, addressed the near-capacity audience. El Reno: Emily Gail Kindiger Father Wolf read a message to the graduates from Glenpool: Jennifer Christine Hemphill the Most Reverend Eusebius Beltran, Archbishop Harrah: Amanda Elizabeth Visnieski Emeritus of Oklahoma City. Beltran’s message Hennessey: Mario Ayala focused on the “secret” of the graduates’ education. Justin, Texas: Joshua Reynaldo Dutchover “The secret is this: Education is, and has been, Little Rock, Ark.: Krista Ann Lassiter the process of drawing out of you your deepest and McAlester: Nicole Lee Harris fullest self,” Beltran wrote. “Your teachers have McLoud: Claudia Garcia, David Michael Groff deduced what lies within you to have you to see Midwest City: Vickie Kim Horn, Miko W. Noley more clearly yourselves and the world. Education Moore: Rebecca L. Johnson, Michael John comes from you.” Popenhagen, Denise Nicole Stewart Beltran concluded his remarks with the follow- Mounds: Jennifer Jill Morgan ing: Muskogee: Jeremy Dale Springer “During all of these years, in all of these Nassau, Bahamas: Angelique Lynnette Sawyer classes, we’ve been showing you your soul and Newalla: Melissa Renee Alexander helping to adorn it — get it into shape so that it Norman: Danica Elaine Easley, Daniel O’Dowd will be your gift to yourself and become a gift to the Patterson world … Your education is a secret now revealed. Oklahoma City: Alysia Kay Davenport, Kelly D. The door has been opened, and you have been Hodges, Kyle Anthony Lulko, William Franklin given a great gift: Give it away.” Schula Jr. Valedictorians Igor Manfro and Richard Owasso: Constantine George Michalopulos Desruisseau also addressed the audience. Manfro, Pauls Valley: J Guadalupe Salgado-Andrade from Brazil, was valedictorian for the College of Richland Hills, Texas: Tino Baltazar Galvan Arts and Sciences. Desruisseau, from Sand David Groff receives congratulations from St. Sand Springs: Richard Peter Desruisseau Springs, was valedictorian for the College for Gregory’s University President David Marker on Shawnee: Dorris Marie Arrasmith, Ashley Marie Working Adults. May 7 during the university’s commencement Kelley, Scott Alan Miller, Michelle Lynn Sims, Manfro’s speech focused on “making every exercises. Groff, of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Misty Gail Tiller second count,” while Desruisseau commented on McLoud, received a bachelor of arts degree. Shell Knob, Mo.: Tricia Joy Friedt the bond with his classmates. Skiatook: Krista ReNee Ryan “Cherish the time we have spent together. Trophy Club, Texas: John Joseph Twomey Cherish the bond we have formed,” Desruisseau Associates Degrees Tulsa: Nicholas S. Badraun, Jessica Elaine said. “Most of all, cherish the moments we laughed Broken Arrow: Christina L. Drake Burns, Jerri Deneen Cherry, Diana DeLeon, and toiled; agreed and, yes, disagreed. Treasure Chouteau: Sheila Marie Cox Rosalyn Ann Gille, Michelle M. Manly, Mindi those bits and pieces we each bring to the table, for Mannford: Tracy Mechelle Johnson Puanani Mariboho, Christie Lynn Marshall- we will never know which piece of ourselves we Moore: Rosaland Lynn Rathbun Wilkins, Brittany Anne Moore, Kennieth Jerome might leave for someone else. Oklahoma City: Claire Elaine Challis, Jessica Norman, Patricia Ann Pook, “Always remember the world will be a better McGuffee Childers, Vance Ruben Mata David Kevin Thompson, Mary Carrol Thompson, place because of you, and because of you, I will be Owasso: Russell Tyler Brown, Douglas Lee Theresa Diane Willis, Neishan A. Wilson a better person.” Trammell Wagoner: Novita Maria Kohart, As part of the ceremony, St. Gregory’s honored Sand Springs: Tiffany Dawn Hough West Helena, Ark.: Cecelia F. Brickell two retiring members of the faculty, James Meyer, Sapulpa: Jason Edward Warren Yukon: Joshua Alan Yax Ph.D., and Harry Moore, Ph.D. Both were pro- Shawnee: Allison Rae Davis, Melissa Jeanette International: Laura Curiel Duran, Igor Gonzalez moted to the rank of professor emeritus. Moore Skillern Manfro, Nathalie Silva Pfeifer, Honorine Sylva, taught at St. Gregory’s for 10 years, while Meyer Tulsa: Peter Alexander Churchich, Susan E. Miho Takenoya had a 36-year tenure. Petrunak, Natalie Elaine Prentice, Jessica M. Baccalaureate Mass was held Friday in St. Prince, Heather Maryie Quiroga, Clifford Carl Master’s Degrees Gregory’s Abbey Church. The Rev. Brian O’Brien, Riley, Brandon Nathaniel Steele Broken Arrow: Tracy Jo Miller president of Bishop Kelley High School in Tulsa, Coweta: Ashley Louise Smith preached the homily. The SGU Chorale, under the Bachelor’s Degrees Owasso: Catrina Lynn Shumaker direction of Brother Damian Whalen, O.S.B., Ph.D., Bartlesville: Jill Suzanne Buoy Tulsa: Sally Ann Fowkes, John A. Deckard, provided music. Broken Arrow: Matthew Arthur Crawford Kayson Alphonso Gregg, Wendy Zoe Martin May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 21 An Open Letter to My Catholic Friends in Poland A son of Poland is now Blessed matter of theology, not psychology. courageously pro- Polish Church that helps Poland John Paul II. What is Poland to do John Paul II truly believed that in posed. There is a build a free and virtuous Europe for now? the designs of Providence, there are compelling Catholic the future would be a Church living If a friend might offer a sugges- no mere coincidences. What seems to apologetic in the the legacy of John Paul II in public in tion: The Church in Poland should us “coincidence” is actually an aspect magisterium of a very important way. start looking forward rather than of Providence we have not understood Blessed John Paul Poland has to stop looking in backward. yet. So his curiosity was a matter II. Let Poland take the rear-view mirror. Strengthened Ever since the late pope’s death of looking into “here” and “now” to the lead in translat- by the great spiritual, moral and in 2005, the Polish Church seems to see where the wind of the Holy ing this teaching By George intellectual patrimony left it by its have been looking over its shoulder Spirit might be blowing, and in what into effective cate- Weigel noblest son, John Paul II, Polish at the colossal figure of John Paul II. direction. chetical material. Catholicism must now look boldly Given the magnitude of John Paul’s Polish Catholicism should adopt Polish Catholicism has not fully toward the future. Monuments will accomplishment, and the widely this future-oriented stance. Remem- developed its public voice, and when continue to be built throughout shared sentiment that John Paul II bering the John Paul II years should it speaks about public policy, it does Poland to this man who changed the was a God-given blessing to Poland now be a remembering in service to not always speak in a vocabulary global Church and the course of 20th- in thanks for the country’s fidelity the future. The 21st century Church that everyone can understand. century history, and that is fine. Yet during decades of partition and total- in Poland must take up John Paul’s Developing a public voice that speaks the most fitting Polish monument to itarian occupation, that nostalgia is challenge in the 1991 encyclical to all is another important way for Blessed John Paul II, the pope who understandable. But it is now time to Redemptoris Missio and re-imagine the Church in Poland to be a “John called the world to courage out of look forward, which is what Blessed itself as a Church that is a mission, Paul II Church” looking forward, not the depths of Poland’s own courage, John Paul II would want. not an institution for which mission backward. would be a courageous Polish I’m often asked about the human is one among many activities. Or as Then there is Europe. John Paul Catholicism that maintained its own traits I saw in John Paul II. One John Paul put it in closing the Great II knew that “old Europe” was in vibrant faith while helping re- answer I often give is that the late Jubilee of 2000, the Church must serious trouble. In “new Europe,” in evangelize Europe. pope was the most intensely curious leave the shallow water of institu- America, and in their willingness to man I’ve ever known. He always tional maintenance and put out “into take the social doctrine of the Church George Weigel is Distinguished wanted to know about the new books, the deep” of the New Evangelization. seriously, he saw a chance for the Senior Fellow of the Ethics and the new articles and new arguments How? entire West to recover its Christian Public Policy Center in Washington, in my corner of the intellectual and The Polish Church must recog- roots: not as a matter of reconstruct- D.C. Weigel’s column is distributed cultural world. He even wanted to nize that the faith can no longer ing the old altar-and-throne regimes by the Denver Catholic Register, the know the latest pope jokes. be transmitted by the ambient but precisely in order to build the free official newspaper of the Archdiocese That intense curiosity was a culture; it has to be persuasively and and virtuous societies of the future. A of Denver. Phone: 303-715-3215. Conference to Address National Pastoral Initiative for Marriage MILWAUKEE, Wis. — The Na- Bishops, who, in November 2004, commitment by the entire Catholic marriage and family counselors; be- tional Association of Catholic Family began a National Pastoral Initiative community to help “those called to the reavement ministers; religious educa- Life Ministers (NACFLM) are for Marriage to communicate from the vocation of married life to live it faith- tors; those involved in ministries to offering a summer conference riches of our Catholic faith, the mean- fully, fruitfully and joyfully ... from the the divorced; and natural family titled “2011 Marriage-Building ing and value of marriage as both a early years when young people begin planning ministries, to name a few. Construction Zone.” Sacrament of the Church and a social to learn about committed relation- Several trade schools will be given in Catholic clergy and laity from institution. ships to the later years of married life, Spanish. Conference keynoters in- across the United States and abroad The bishops pledged to be a and even beyond them to grieving the clude some of the most respected with a passion for marriage and Marriage-Building Church that draws loss of a spouse.” They pledge their speakers in the United States: family life are invited to come to- strength from God’s grace, invites and collaboration “with all those who seek Bishop Thomas Doran and Don gether at Marquette University, includes the gifts of many, beginning to create a vibrant culture of marriage and Lorrie Gramer, “...In the Milwaukee, Wis., Aug. 3-6, 2011. Pre- with married couples themselves, and rooted in God’s plan for the good of Construction Zone!” the story of conference workshops begin Aug. 2. celebrates and incorporates the diver- humanity.” Marriage-Building with Power, Offered in partnership with the sity of races, cultures, ethnicity and Individuals and couples who Passion and Possibilities. John USCCB Secretariat for Laity, heritage “with which God enriches the attend the conference can increase Roberto, “Envisioning the Future of Marriage, Family Life and Youth, this world and the Church especially in their knowledge of marriage and Marriage and Family Ministry.” Dr. incredible opportunity will feature top our nation.” (2010, MARRIAGE: Love family life issues and Catholic teach- Marcellino D’Ambrosio, “Love, Sex leaders, speakers and resources from and Life in the Divine Plan, USCCB). ings on marriage and family. There and the Catholic Church.” the field of marriage and family In 2010 they published a pastoral will be pre-conference workshops and A complete brochure and registra- research, enrichment, education and letter titled MARRIAGE: Love and three-hour trade school classes offer- tion information can be found at spirituality. Life in the Divine Plan that extends ing in-depth learning on topics help- NACFLM.org, or call or e-mail Lorrie The conference aims to assist the and enriches the work of this Pastoral ful to clergy; marriage preparation and Don Gramer at 815-387-3370, United States Conference of Catholic Initiative, while urging a renewed and marriage enrichment leaders; [email protected]. 22 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 Jobs Box Elementary School Openings handlers permits. Full benefits of parish property and supervision of 2011-2012 school year. Liturgical All Saints Catholic School in package paid by the school for full- office staff. Needed are organizational music director duties for leading Norman has the following full-time time employees. Submit resume and skills, talent for multitasking, profi- student choir and accompaniment at positions available for the 2011-2012 copy of application, in addition, for ciency with standard office software school Masses to be negotiated. school year: Pre-K teacher — Must teaching positions, submit transcripts (Word, Excel, etc.), and experience in Please fax résumé and certification to have certification in Early Childhood to Paolo J. Dulcamara, 611 SW ‘A’ a business office and/or supervisory Todd Gungoll at (405) 789-3583 or Education. Grade 5 teacher — Avenue, Lawton, Okla. 73501. Phone role. Successful candidate will show e-mail to [email protected]. Must have elementary education (580) 355-5288 to schedule an inter- promise as parish resource and office certification, and will team-teach view. leader. Send (1) letter of application, Grade 5 students. The applicant is (2) resume, and (3) contact in- Director of Religious Education responsible for teaching language Kindergarten Teacher formation for three references to Epiphany of the Lord Parish, arts (reading, English and spelling) Holy Trinity School in Okarche Search Committee, St. Thomas More Oklahoma City, is accepting and science. Junior High religion has an opening for a kindergarten University Parish and Student applications for the full-time position teacher — Responsible for teaching teacher. Applicants must be certified Center, 100 E. Stinson, Norman, of Director of Religious Education. religion in Grades 6, 7 and 8. The in Early Childhood. If you are in- Okla. 73072. Job remains open The parish is searching for a applicant must be an active, terested in joining a well-established until filled, with first round of candidate deeply rooted in the practicing Catholic. Resource Room staff and work with small classes and consideration commencing April 27, Catholic faith with experience and Director — The director tutors outstanding parental involvement, 2011. Questions: call (405) 321-0990. vision to serve its 1,600 families. students and small groups in various send resume to Tammy Jacobs, The director will coordinate all subjects, administers make-up exams, Principal, Holy Trinity Catholic Teachers Needed education programs for children and works directly with classroom School, P.O. Box 485, Okarche, Okla. Sacred Heart Catholic School in adults. Will be responsible for cate- El Reno is in need of two certified teachers to coordinate implementa- 73762. You may also send it via e- chist recruitment, formation and tion of ISP/IEP modifications, assists mail to [email protected]. teachers for the 2011-2012 school certification, and must also with ESL students, and teaches a year. Send resume and references c/o collaborate with the parish leaders of study skills class for ISP/IEP Kindergarten Teacher Opening Shannon Statton, 210 S. Evans, El youth ministry, music, and the students. Oklahoma teaching St. John Nepomuk School in Reno, Okla. 73036, or fax (405) 262- Journey of Faith. Applicants should certification preferred, reading Yukon is accepting applications for 3818. Sacred Heart Catholic School have a degree in theology, religious specialist or special education teaching positions for the 2011-2012 will be hiring a janitor pending a education or related area and a experience a plus. Direct inquiries school year. A full-time position is background check for the 2011-2012 and send resume to Leslie Schmitt, available for a kindergarten teacher school year. Please apply in person minimum of five years experience Principal, 4001 36th Avenue, NW, certified in Early Childhood. This after 3:30 p.m. or send resume to working in catechetical ministry Norman, Oklahoma 73072, (405) 447- position is for a classroom that has a Sacred Heart School, 210 S. Evans, (Master’s degree preferred). 4600 or by fax, (405) 447-7227. full-day kindergarten program. El Reno, Okla. 73036. Interested candidates should contact Applicants for this position must be Patricia Koenig in the Archdiocesan Job positions available certified in the state of Oklahoma. Part-Time Music Teacher Office of Religious Education to Lifeguard for summer program at Call the school office at (405) 354- St. Charles Borromeo Catholic initiate the application process, Villa Teresa School. Applicant must 2509 for an application or send a copy School in Oklahoma City is seeking [email protected], be certified and at least 16 years of of your current Oklahoma teaching a part-time music teacher for the (405) 721-5651 Ext. 126. age. Teaching position for 2 1/2-year certificate and resume to Diane students. This position requires at Floyd, St. John Nepomuk Catholic least an associate degree in Early School, 600 Garth Brooks Blvd., Childhood or Child Development or Yukon, Okla. 73099. CDA. Interested applicants may call Sister Veronica (232-4286) for an Elementary School Openings interview appointment. Sacred Heart Catholic School in Oklahoma City is accepting Elementary School Openings applications for teaching positions for St. Mary’s Catholic School in the 2011-2012 school year. SHCS is a Lawton is seeking persons of faith PK4 through eighth-grade school. wanting a challenging career in Call the school office at (405) 634- Catholic education. The school will 5673 for an application or send have the following openings for next a resume to Joana Camacho, SHCS, year: Middle school social studies 2700 S. Shartel Ave., Oklahoma City, teacher; Music Appreciation Okla. 73109. teacher (middle school); P.E. Seventh- and eighth-grade students from St. Mary’s School in Ponca City teacher; cook assistant; kitchen Business Manager pose with Oklahoma State University head wrestling coach John Smith in assistant. There are both full- and St. Thomas More University Stillwater. Smith arranged for a private tour of Gallagher-Iba Arena and part-time positions available. Parish and Student Center in then spoke with the students about setting goals, discipline, and how living Teaching positions require degree Norman is looking for a business his Catholic faith has enabled him to accomplish his goals. The students and certification. Cafeteria workers manager. Responsibilities includes also visited St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church to learn about campus need to be able to obtain proper food bill-paying, recordkeeping, oversight ministry and to celebrate Mass with Father Stuart Crevcoure. May 29, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 23 Calendar MAY 3-5 Rachel’s Vineyard Post- MSM friends. A reception will be held Emmanuel will be celebrated after 30 Memorial Day Masses at Abortion Healing Retreat. Inquire at the Mount in the Heritage Room Liturgy. For more information, call Resurrection Cemetery. for details at the confidential phone from 4 to 6 p.m. followed by dinner Father Phil Seeton at (580) 536-6351. Archbishop Coakley will say Mass at or e-mail (405) 623-3844, rachels- at Belle Isle Brewery. For more 8 a.m. and Archbishop Emeritus [email protected]. information, contact Diane 10-12 A Walk in the Garden, a Beltran will say Mass at 11 a.m. All McGlashan Wilson at 631-8865 or Catholic Young Adult Retreat for are welcome. 3 First Friday Sacred Heart Mass [email protected]. ages 18-35. Featuring Father at the Catholic Pastoral Center. Boniface Copelin, O.S.B., S.T.L., and 30 Memorial Day Mass at Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament 4 Redhawks Baseball with the Brother Simeon Spitz, O.S.B. To Lockridge at St. Patrick Cemetery at 5:30 p.m., Sacrament of COMPANY: Single adults ages 35- register or for more information, at 10 a.m., located one-half mile west Reconciliation prior to Mass. Mass at plus. Tables have been reserved at contact FIDE at (405) 878-5353 or of Council Road on Sorghum Mill 7 p.m. For more information, call the Coach’s on the Patio. There are only [email protected]. Road. A potluck luncheon will follow Office of Family Life at (405) 721- 40 spots available, only $6 a spot! the celebration of the Mass. Bring 8944. These must be prepaid. Reservations 10 Bingo Night at St. Joseph’s a lawn chair and a covered dish. begin at 6:30 p.m. Contact Mary at Church in Norman. Light supper In case of stormy weather, Mass 4-5 Book Sale. Attention biblio- [email protected] or call/text served at 6:30 p.m. Games begin at 7 and luncheon will be moved to St. philes! Our Lady of Perpetual Help 401-4105. p.m. with a first session; second Monica Church at 2001 N. Western, Cathedral youth group and Our session at 8:30 p.m. $5 per session, no Edmond. Lady’s Altar Society book sale June 4 4 St. Charles Catholic Singles limit on blackout cards, group photo from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and June 5 from Dance from 7:30 to 11 p.m. The of all the winners. JUNE 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Connor Center, church is located at 5024 N. Grove 1 Perpetual Adoration at St. 3300 Lake Avenue, Oklahoma City. Avenue, Oklahoma City. For more 12 35th Anniversary of Epiphany Monica, St. Augustine chapel located Contact Faith Reilly at 523-3057 or information, call Al at 631-0763. of the Lord Parish, founded the at the back of St. Monica Church. For [email protected]. summer of 1976. We invite all current more information, call Toni Harrelson 5 Byzantine Liturgy will be offered and former parishioners to join us for by e-mail at [email protected] 4 Mount St. Mary High School at 5 p.m. at St. Mark’s Church, 3939 the weekend Masses and for the or by phone at (405) 341-2199. classes of 1971 and 1972 40-year W. Tecumseh Road, Norman. parish picnic. Games begin at 4 p.m., reunion for graduates and their Moleben-Intercessions to Christ dinner is served at 5 p.m. Spirituality Retreat, Training Set OKLAHOMA CITY — Where do participants need to register with Scout to Receive Eagle May 29 you find the inspiration that restores VanPool at (405) 523-3003. Parker Rice, 18, son of Craig and Juanita Rice, is a senior at you for the work of the Gospel? Do you Engaging Spirituality — Re- Norman North High School where he participates in tennis, band, yearn to live more deeply? Are you flection and Discernment Day for orchestra, Jazz Band, National Honor Society and GEMS Science looking for ways to connect your potential co-facilitators will be held on Club. He is also active in a 4-H FIRST Robotics Club. He plans on prayer life with the needs of the Saturday, June 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 attending Oklahoma State University to pursue a world? p.m. The training is a day-long degree in electrical engineering. Engaging Spirituality, a JustFaith immersion into some of the unique Parker began Scouting as a Tiger Cub with Ministries process, invites adult elements of this spiritual deepening Pack 159 at All Saints Catholic School. He earned Christians to explore the intersection process, and well as an experience of Cub Scouting’s highest award, the Arrow of Light. between contemplative presences and contemplative-engagement practices. He joined Boy Scout Troop 217, chartered by St. social action. “Two opportunities will This small group process uses discern- Mark the Evangelist Church, in the spring of 2004 be offered in Oklahoma City on June 3 ment, Lectio Divina, prayerful listen- as a member of the Scorpion Patrol. and 4 to experience this formation ing, journaling, spiritual reading, Parker Rice Parker has served his troop as senior patrol process that can give a connection to a Centering Prayer and outreach to leader, assistant senior patrol leader, patrol leader, deeper faith life,” said Becky VanPool, explore the intersection between con- assistant patrol leader, bugler, scribe, patrol quartermaster, junior Parish Outreach Director of Catholic templative presence and social action. assistant Scoutmaster and assistant Scoutmaster. Charities. Epiphany of the Lord Parish, 7336 He has sold over $15,250 in Boy Scout popcorn fundraisers. “Still In the Storm,” a presenta- W. Britton Road, Oklahoma City, will He has completed 95 nights camping, 87 miles hiking, 70 miles tion on Friday, June 3 at 7 p.m., will be host both presentations. Registration canoeing and 51 service hours. He has participated in Slippery an introduction to the themes and for Saturday is $32 which includes Falls Scout Ranch, Philmont Scout Ranch, Current River float flow of Engaging Spirituality. Joe lunch. Housing at the Pastoral Center trips and Trappers Rendezvous. The highlight of his Scouting Grant, author of JustFaith Ministries is also available. To register for events career was attending the 2010 100th Anniversary Boy Scout Engaging Spirituality will lead or for additional information, contact National Jamboree. participants to experience a prayerful Becky VanPool at bvanpool@catholic- Parker’s Eagle service project involved designing and process to draw this world down into charitiesok.org or by calling (405) 523- coordinating the construction of raised garden beds and a fence for our hearts, to hold it in prayer to- 3003. For more information regarding an outdoor classroom for the high schools of Norman Public gether and to practice living deeply. JustFaith Ministries, go to justfaith.- Schools. His Eagle Scout Court of Honor will be held on May 29. The evening retreat is free but org. 24 Sooner Catholic ● May 29, 2011 Benedictines Celebrate SHAWNEE — St. Gregory’s Abbey celebrated several anniversaries in mid- May. On Monday, May 16, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley celebrated Mass at the Abbey church, giving special thanks for the priestly ministry and life of Father Charles Massoth, OSB. Abbot Lawrence Stasyszen, OSB, concelebrated and offered the homily. Father Massoth is celebrating his 60th anniversary of Priestly Ordination. At the end of Mass he strolled to the microphone with the help of his walker and belted out a beautiful rendition of “To Dream the Impossible Dream.” “From Jesus, the true and perfect shepherd, comes a call to others that is so compelling that it leads them to lay down their very lives out of love of Christ and for the sake of Christ’s flock,” Abbot Lawrence said in his homily. “They hear the voice of the True Shepherd calling them to the life and ministry of the priesthood and they respond with openness and joy. “Today we give thanks for this call to priestly ministry made manifest in the life of Father Charles Massoth, OSB. Ordained to the priesthood on April 7, 1951, Father Charles has been indeed an exemplary image and embodiment of the ministry of the Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, for over 60 years.” On Thursday, May 19, St. Gregory’s celebrated the anniversaries of monastic profession of Brother Benet Exton, OSB, 25 years. Father Basil Keenon, OSB, and Father Adrian Vorderlandwehr, OSB, are celebrating 50 years of profession. They received a special staff and blessing. And finally, Brother Andrew Raple, OSB, is celebrating his 60th anniversary of monastic profession. Top right, Archbishop Coakley congratulates Father Charles Massoth, OSB, on his 60th anniversary. Below, clockwise, Abbot Lawrence Stasyszen, OSB, listens as Father Basil Keenon, OSB, Father Adrian Vorderlandwehr, OSB, Brother Benet Exton, OSB, and Brother Andrew Raple, OSB, repeat their vows.