SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:05 AM Page 1 Serving the People of the Archdiocese of City Volume 35, Number 16 * August 30, 2009 Our Seminarians

Archbishop Beltran, along with Father William Novak, left, Archdiocesan Vocations Director, and Father Richard Hamilton, far right, vocations team mem- ber, stand with Archdiocesan seminarians. The seminarians for the Archdiocese of are Theology 3 Cory Stanley; Theology 2 Vincente Lopez; Theology 1 Brian Buettner and Robert Miller; Pre-Theology 2 Christopher Brashears, Linh Bui and Timothy Ruckel; Pre-Theology 1 Aaron Foshee, James Matthew Thomason and Lance Warren; College 4 Cristobal DeLoera and Daniel Grover; College 3 Andrew Horn and John Lewis; College 2 Jared Ortega and Joshua Zakrzewicz; and College 1 Blake Jezioro. Domestic Violence Conference in OKC OKLAHOMA CITY — The Archdiocesan to protecting women and children from vio- Office of Family Life is a sponsor of Oklahoma’s lence. annual conference dedicated to ending do- The conference will cover a wide variety of mestic violence. The two-day conference will be topics related to domestic violence, including held Sept. 9-10 at the Renaissance Convention information on how to break the cycle of Center and Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City. violence that often accompanies teen dating. The Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office is For more information or to register, go to a sponsor, along with organizations dedicated www.regonline.com/partnersforchange. SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:05 AM Page 2

2 Sooner Catholic ● August 30, 2009

The Good News Sooner Catholic Most Reverend Eusebius J. Beltran ...Feast of Our Lady of LaVang Archbishop of Oklahoma City Cathedral of Our Lady said: “This is your son.” Mary thereby Publisher August 16, 2009 became mother to all of us. May we always Then, after the death and resur- Ray Dyer My dear Brothers and Sisters in rection of Jesus, the Blessed remain good Editor Christ: Mary continued to inspire the and faithful As always, it is a great joy to Apostles as they fulfilled the mission Catholic Cara Koenig gather together with you, the faith- Jesus gave them. This mission in- Layout/Design/ ful Vietnamese Catholic people of cluded the proclamation of the Gospel people, Photographer Oklahoma City. Today there is an (i.e., the Good News of Jesus) and the children of additional joy since we are celebrating celebration of the sacraments. this feast of our Blessed Mother, which But even when Mary was called Mary, the Mauro Yanez most of us here in America have never by God and taken by Him body and Mother of Hispanic Editor observed. However, in recent decades, soul into heaven, she continued to be Archbishop Beltran as you and your families came to our mother, our guide, our helper. She God. Ammanda McCabe America, we too began to learn about is the Mother of God and the Mother Staff Our Lady of LaVang. of the Church. Therefore, periodically Like Catholics throughout the she would appear somewhere in the appeared to the local people and 7501 Northwest Expressway whole world, we were already aware world to remind us of God’s goodness encouraged them to be faithful to our of the unique role that the Blessed and love, to call us to repentance and Catholic religion. There she healed Oklahoma City, OK 73132 Mother played in salvation history. to assure us of her love and her help. them and watched over them. Now (405) 721-1810 Fax: (405) 721-5210 She is the special creation of God, im- Thus many nations and cultures for more than 200 years, she has con- e-mail: [email protected] tinued to bless the people of Vietnam. maculately conceived and preserved and societies cherish the fact that Mailing Address: P.O. Box 32180 from all stain of sin. Totally obedient Mary, the Mother of God and our The Vietnamese people who immi- Oklahoma City, OK 73123 to God, the Blessed Mother always mother, too, has appeared on their soil. grated to other countries, like you who responded positively, thus fulfilling She came to different places at have come to America, introduced us God’s Will in every circumstances of various times in history. In each to Our Lady of LaVang. We witness Visit us online through the her life. instance she brought consolation and the love you have for our Blessed Archdiocesan Web Page at Mary is the chosen one who was healing. She always led people back to Mother and your devotion to her as www.catharchdioceseokc.org. called to become the mother of Jesus, her Son Jesus Who is our Lord, our Our Lady of LaVang. We are very the eternal Son of God. She became Savior. She is always a kind and happy to join you in honoring the The Sooner Catholic (USPS 066-910) is our mother as Jesus died on the cross. loving mother. Blessed Virgin Mary, for she is mother published biweekly except for once in July There, John, the Apostle, representing Today we are honoring Mary of us all. May we always remain good us, heard Jesus say to him, “Son, this under the title of Our Lady of LaVang. and faithful Catholic people, children and twice in December by the Archdiocese is your mother.” And to Mary, Jesus There in central Vietnam, Mary of Mary, the Mother of God. of Oklahoma City.

The newspaper is not responsible for Seminary Burses unsolicited material. Copyright © 2009 Sooner Catholic A $200 donation was made to the Father Wade Darnall Father John A. Petuskey Father Beltran Seminary Seminary Burse Seminary Burse Subscription rate: $20 per year for all Burse in memory of Jerry Cebulski. $10,545 $11,850 who are not members of the A $25 donation was made to the Father Larry Gatlin Father Clement E. Pribil Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Father Joseph Beltran Seminary Seminary Burse Seminary Burse Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma Burse in honor of Rev. Charles H. $10,000 $5,351 Schettler’s 80th birthday. City, OK 73125. Father Bernard J. Havlik Father Stanley Rother Father Joseph Beltran Seminary Burse Seminary Burse Seminary Burse $184,496 $87,743 $26,710 Archbishop Father Stephen Bird Father James A. Kastner Seminary Burse Seminary Burse Seminary Burse $185,945 $11,100 $10,220 Father Gerald Ucker The Sooner Catholic is Father Denis Blackledge Bishop Stephen A. Leven Seminary Burse supported through the Seminary Burse Seminary Burse $9,998 Archdiocesan Development Fund. $8,337 $59,628 Totals as of 7/31/2009 SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:06 AM Page 3

August 30, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 3 The Good News Catholic Parishes Join With Vietnamese Translation Oklahoma Sponsoring Committee Priest Explains Role of Organization By Ray Dyer find it difficult to The Sooner Catholic move about OKLAHOMA CITY — Six Oklahoma City. Catholic parishes are among about Father Luschen said two dozen churches in the Oklahoma he knows of one man City area that have joined to form with disabilities who an entity known as the Oklahoma commutes by bus Sponsoring Committee. The OSC was from The Village to created in February. the University of Father Tim Luschen Father Tim Luschen, of St. Central Oklahoma in Monica Church in Edmond, said the Edmond. He said it purpose of the organization is to listen takes the man four hours to make the to the concerns and needs of families trip by city bus. In a car the route and individuals in the churches and could be driven in no more than 20 parishes and then determine if similar minutes. issues are posing challenges in other Father Luschen said he is aware areas of the community. there has been criticism concerning “Families are hurting,” Father the Catholic involvement in the OSC. Luschen said. He said the OSC A number of Catholics have written or member churches will conduct spoken against Church involvement research after gathering information and recently Catholic participation in specific to each the OSC has been church and parish to criticized on the determine if any Internet and on an course of action “We will only work on Oklahoma City could be imple- the issues we can radio station. Originally, nine mented to help agree on.” address common Catholic parishes issues. He said by Father Tim Luschen were involved gathering this with the OSC, but information, the Father Luschen churches and parishes can said three decided determine if ministries already exist against further participation. Parishes that could address the situation, or “do currently supporting the OSC include we need to develop a new ministry” to The Cathedral of Our Lady of tackle an issue. Perpetual Help, St. Monica, St. The information will be gathered Charles, St. Patrick, Sacred Heart and by listening to parishioners. This will St. Eugene. All are in Oklahoma City occur first, Father Luschen said, in except for St. Monica, which is in small groups, normally meeting in Edmond. homes. The smaller groups will then Father Luschen said while he come together for parish meetings. supports the rights of those in Father Luschen said the six opposition to criticize, he believes Catholic parishes have agreed to join the OSC can help do good in the with Protestant churches and one community while continuing to Jewish congregation in the OSC effort. strictly follow Church teaching. He said in no way would the Catholic “We will continue to do what we do parishes agree to support anything in our parishes,” Father Luschen said. that goes against Church teaching or He said the OSC will simply allow tradition. more voices to come together in search “We will only work on the of solutions to critical issues. He said issues we can agree on,” he said. also that community organizing has He used transportation as a possible been accepted and even promoted by example. Low-income persons often Catholic bishops in various parts of continued on page 6 SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:06 AM Page 4

4 Sooner Catholic ● August 30, 2009 Archdiocesan Priests Celebrate 50 Years of Service to God

By Steve Gust For the Sooner Catholic This year Benedict XVI has declared the “Year for Priests,” and how appropriate is it the Archdiocese is marking the 50th jubilee ordination of four of our priests. Father Gerard MacAulay, Father John J. Michalicka, Father Marvin F. Leven and Father Denis Hanrahan have each reached this very special of milestones. Between them, that’s more than 200 years of celebrating , bring- Father John Michalicka Father Denis G. Hanrahan Father Gerard MacAulay Father Marvin F. Leven ing the Holy Eucharist to parishioners across the state as well as thousands Father Hanrahan was ordained celebrants, he has served several packed the Great Hall of St. John’s in of , weddings and funerals. June 14, 1959, in Dublin, Ireland. He parishes in the state, bringing the Edmond where Father Leven said he And that only begins to scratch the followed in the footsteps of his brother, sacraments to worshippers. was like a cat with nine lives. “I still surface of the duties of these men who , who was ordained in 1954 These days, he celebrates Mass at have two more to go,” he joked. faithfully answered God’s call to the and served the Archdiocese of St. Ann’s Retirement Center near the It’s that sense of humor which has priesthood in 1959 when Ike was in Oklahoma City faithfully until his Archdiocesan Center helped Father Leven in his vocation. the White House and television was death in 1990. Born Nov. 30, 1928, he also has He believes the Holy Spirit has had still somewhat new. In Ireland Father Hanrahan was made an impression, a profound one a deep effect on his life, as has his from a parish where the priesthood with many of his former parishioners. spiritual relationship with martyred Father John Michalicka vocation was popular among young Last May, Catherine Green, formerly priest, Father Stanley Rother. In an Pastor, St. Mary’s, Ponca City men. of Holy Family Parish in Lawton, interview with the Sooner Catholic in Father Michalicka was born in “There were probably more than wrote The Sooner Catholic and 1992, Father Leven discussed both. Union City in November 1933. He was 20 ordained from my parish,” he said. recalled many of the times and experi- ordained at Our Lady’s Cathedral in “I’ve seen radical changes in “When they were home on vacation, ences Father MacAulay had there. people’s lives through their devotion Oklahoma City on May 16, 1959. they made an impression on me.” She called him a “good priest lead- He grew up in a family where to the Holy Spirit,” he said. He It was their witness to the faith ing the souls in his care toward recalled a time when he asked for daily prayer and Sunday Mass were a and Michael’s decision to serve, which heavenly pasture.” She remembered regular part of their life. Although intervention by the late Father also led him to his decision to serve when he left Holy Family. Rother with a young woman near he labels his calling a “reluctant dis- God. Michael was born in the United “The church was so full at his covery,” Father Michalicka gradually death. She survived her surgery and States and therefore made the deci- farewell. He had been kind to the sick, began to recover. was drawn to his vocation by the sion to serve in this nation. Father the elderly, the small children.” And beauty of the Mass and liturgy. Hanrahan followed his brother. Father perhaps she summed up best his Father Leven was raised in rural To this day, Mass and the opportu- Hanrahan’s ministry has taken him to legacy. Oklahoma and another of his stories nities of sharing in the joy of baptisms, Blessed Sacrament in Lawton; Sacred “I don’t know where all his parish- concerned his late father, Anton. As a weddings and reunions hold a special Heart, Oklahoma City; St. Pius, Tulsa; ioners are now; many have died and young man his father was turned place in his heart. St. Helen’s, Frederick; St. Eugene’s, some moved away as we did ourselves. down for Knights of Columbus life Over the past 50 years he’s seen Weatherford; St. , But we remember Father, we thank insurance — considered a poor risk. the faith battle a secular and con- Watonga; St. Catherine’s, Pauls Valley; you for your many sacrifices. We thank His father lived to be 105, dying in sumer culture. and now St. Mary’s, where he’s in his you for your goodness and holiness 2003. “Being a witness to God in a 18th year as pastor. and kindness.” In addition to being a longtime secular world, with the love of Christ “I am very grateful for the He served at St. Mary’s in Ponca chaplain for the Oklahoma State seems to surprise so many with a opportunity the archdiocese has given City; Christ the King, Oklahoma City; Council of the Knights of Columbus, myopic view of earth and view of me to serve,” he said. St. Peter’s, Woodward; St. Philip Neri, he served at St. Peter and Paul, Tulsa; living,” he said. Has he ever thought about the Midwest City; St. Eugene’s, Oklahoma St. , Enid (twice); St. Father Michalicka has served at number of Masses he’s celebrated? City; Our Lady of Victory in Purcell; Eugene’s, OKC; Holy Family, Tulsa; the Pastoral Center, Our Lady’s “Well, it’s at least one a day for 50 Holy Family, Lawton; and Immaculate Prince of Peace, Altus; St. John the Cathedral, St. Anthony’s Hospital, years,” he said. (That comes to 18,250) Conception in Oklahoma City. Baptist, Edmond; Holy Trinity, Oklahoma City, Epiphany, Oklahoma Next year he turns 75 and will be Father Marvin F. Leven Okarche; and Holy Family, Lawton. City, as well as missions in Woodward, eligible for retirement, he said. Retired Though retired in 1999, he Canute and Coalgate. He has been Father Gerard MacAulay On May 6, 1959, Father Leven continues to serve as chaplain at pastor at St. Mary’s in Ponca City Retired was ordained at St. Francis Church in Mercy Hospital; as chaplain to the since 1994. He was also an associate It was May 23, 1959, at Prince Newkirk. At a jubilee celebration last Sisters of Mercy and the Sisters of the there in the 1960s. Edward Island, Canada, where Father May at St. John’s in Edmond, Father Carmel of St. Joseph; and as chaplain Father Denis G. Hanrahan MacAulay was ordained into the Leven noted there had been many for cruise ships of the Holland Pastor, St. Mary’s, Guthrie priesthood. Like his fellow jubilee challenges in his 50 years. Hundreds America Cruise Line. SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:06 AM Page 5

August 30, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 5 Priests Stand With Us on Our Journey Editor’s Note: This column, in honor of the “Year for the Priest,” is made available from the Secretariat for Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations. It is also on the Web at http://www.usccb.org/yearforpriests/articles.shtml. The Priest By Paula Brock Alter Christus the Priest, another Christ. In his love and wisdom, God did not leave us alone on this earth but gave us the priest. During my pilgrimage here on earth, the priest has accompanied me, helping me to navigate and stay on the path that will lead me to my eternal home. He has come in many forms, ages, races and manners; and he has always been there, in the happy times, in the sad times and in the ordinary times. He has been my friend, counselor, confessor and consoler. He is Augustinian, Dominican, Benedictine and secular. When I was first born, he was there to bring me to a precious and nobler birth through the sacrament of . I have seen him baptizing my children and grandchildren as infants, and my husband as an adult. What joy for me to see my family being freed from their sins, entering the Church and being made sharers in her mission! When I was a child, the priest was there to reconcile me to God. I received my first Sacrament of Penance as an innocent 7-year-old, little did I know of sin. But as time passed and I offended the Lord, it was the priest who showed me God’s great mercy and encouraged me in the knowledge that my sins were forgiven. How vividly I remember my First Holy Communion Day, wearing my beautiful white dress and veil and missing my front tooth. The priest was there again, to give me the life-giving food that is Christ come down from Heaven. I did not think I could ever be happier than I was on that day. Although I little understood the depths of this mystery at the time, through the years the continual reception of the most Holy Eucharist, made available to me through the priest, has shaped my life and my very being. As a 9-year-old I remember wearing a red gown and receiving the light slap on the face from the bishop that was a customary Confirmation symbol at the time. I was told I was now a soldier of Christ, and I proclaimed with great certainty that I would be willing to die for the Lord! However, as I progressed Please Pray for Priests through my early adult years, I was anything but a soldier. Though the priest Dear Lord, is often scorned and condemned for defending the divine and enduring things We pray that the Blessed Mother of God, it was his example that brought me back to my senses. wrap her mantle around your priests As a young bride, my husband and I exchanged our vows witnessed by the and through her intercession priest; there he was with us as we made the public decision to cooperate with strengthen them for their ministry. God in the founding of our family. The multitude of joys throughout our years We pray that Mary will guide your priests together clearly demonstrates God’s presence in our marriage. The birth of our children, seeing them grow into loving adults with children of their own, and to follow her own words, spending simple time together in the lovely quietness of family life are all gifts “Do whatever He tells you.” (Jn 2:5). beyond compare. May your priests have the heart of St. Joseph, The priest was with me again on one sad September day, as he gave my Mary’s most chaste spouse. husband the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. My husband was dying May the Blessed Mother’s own pierced heart and I had to let him go. What a comfort it is to know that my husband was inspire them to embrace reconsecrated before he presented himself to the Divine and Merciful Judge. all who suffer at the foot of the cross. Through my conversations with the priest, I was able to have peace in making May your priests be holy, the decision to turn off artificial life support. It brings me solace today to reflect on the sound wisdom of the Church made known to me though those conversa- filled with the fire of your love tions. seeking nothing but your greater glory As I look back over these years, I realize how integrally and essentially and the salvation of souls. related to my life the priest is. His humility, sacrifice and holiness have been Amen. and continue to be a model and inspiration. St. John Vianney, Pray for Us Paula Brock is the CFO of the Zoological Society of San Diego SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:06 AM Page 6

6 Sooner Catholic ● August 30, 2009 Archbishop Addresses Health Care Reform Issues Archbishop Beltran, in collabo- several bills in process, much pand abortion funding, mandate For decades, the Catholic ration with the information and misinformation abortion coverage, or endanger the Bishops of the United States have Conference of Catholic Bishops being communicated. conscience rights of health care supported and continue to support (USCCB), has been actively in- USCCB Priorities providers and religious institutions. genuine national health care volved in the debate on national and Message Longstanding and widely supported reform that meets the criteria in health care reform legislation. Our message is clear and princi- current policies on these issues my several letters to the House and The debate has reached a pled. The United States Conference must be preserved. We urge Senate: critical point, and the united voice of Catholic Bishops: members of the House and Senate „ A truly universal health of the Catholic community needs 1. Supports universal health to take all steps necessary to policy with respect for human life to be heard clearly and strongly coverage which protects the life and oppose abortion funding, mandated and dignity; as Congress makes important dignity of all, especially those who abortion coverage or weakening of „ Access for all with a special decisions about the principles and are poor and vulnerable. Because conscience rights. concern for the poor and inclusion specific policies that will be in- Catholic teaching insists that basic 3. Supports effective measures of legal immigrants; cluded in legislation. The Catholic health care is a right and is to safeguard the health of immi- „ Pursuing the common good community has unique credibility essential to protect human life and grants, their children and all of and preserving pluralism, includ- in this debate, because we provide dignity, genuine health care reform society by expanding eligibility for ing freedom of conscience and health care, we have a long and con- which protects human life and public programs, such as Medicaid, variety of options; and sistent tradition of teaching on the advances universal coverage is a to all low-income families and „ Controlling costs and apply- ethics of health care, we purchase moral imperative and urgent vulnerable people and by offering ing them equitably across the health care and we pick up the national priority. For us, universal adequate subsidies for cost-sharing spectrum of payers. pieces of a broken health care coverage should be truly universal, of insurance premiums and out-of- Above all, Catholics are re- system. Much is complicated assuring decent health care for all pocket expenses. minded to pray, especially at Mass, about the health care debate. There from conception to natural death. USCCB Criteria for that the dignity of every human are multiple committees involved, 2. Opposes any efforts to ex- Health Care Reform being be honored and respected.

Oklahoma Sponsoring Committee Parish Pulls continued from page 3 the country. He said Cardinal DiNardo of Galveston- Together to Support Houston as well as the Archdiocese of has First-Grader sought assistance from the Industrial Areas Foundation, especially with the issue of immigration. OKLAHOMA The Industrial Areas Foundation is the community CITY — Members organizing group that helped local parishes and churches of the St. Eugene come together to form the Oklahoma Sponsoring Parish and School Committee. The Web site for the OSC is www.oksponsor- united to support ing.org. one of its families. The Babeque/ “Our own archbishop has left this up to the individual Basketball Benefit parishes to decide whether or not they wish to be involved," held for Sara Father Luschen said. He said if these high-ranking Church Robinson not only leaders believed community organizing was in any way A smiling Sara raised funds, but contrary to Church teaching, they would not allow it to demonstrated how continue. St. Eugene pulls together to show Father Luschen said the OSC will not endorse any love and support. Sara, a St. “political party or candidate.” The focus will be strictly on Eugene first-grader, was diagnosed listening and then working to address issues if appropriate, in December with leukemia. She’s he said. currently at MD Anderson Hospital Kris Ausdenmoore, a member of St. in Houston where she’s being moni- University Parish in Norman, has been hired by the OSC tored after receiving a bone marrow to serve as coordinator. Ausdenmoore said she first transplant. To donate, send checks to got involved with the Industrial Areas Foundation and the Sara Robinson Leukemia Medical community organizing while living in . She will office Fund, Attention Sarita Johnson, at out of Sacred Heart in south Oklahoma City. Coppermark Bank, 3333 NW The OSC member churches have agreed to support the Expressway, Oklahoma City, Okla. effort for a period of three years. Father Luschen said Father Jacobi after the basketball benefit. 73112. parishes involved have agreed to contribute up to 1 percent of their annual budget to the OSC for the three-year period. SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:06 AM Page 7

August 30, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 7 Knights Install First Officers Conducting their first installation of officers, present members of the Holy Trinity (Council 14744) Knights of Columbus gathered for Mass, a picture and dinner with their spouses in June. This chapter includes members of the St. Eugene Parish in Weatherford, Blessed Sacrament Mission in Thomas and Sacred Heart in Hinton. The council members and proposed officers have spent the past few months earning their degrees and preparing for the installation, as well as participating in the annual Tootsie Roll Drive, preparing and serving a parish breakfast, and grooming the shrubs and trees of the parish grounds. District Deputy Ray Brzozowski, faithful in assist- ing Grand Knight Garth Christian in the process of founding a council, attended Mass, along with his family, and installed the new officers. Chaplain Father Mark Mason encouraged the members and officers to remember their first obligation is to God and family, “remember to choose wisely a few projects each year, that you might complete them successfully, and remain faithful to your other obli- gations.” Council officers include Grand Knight, Garth Christian; Chaplain, Father Mark Mason; Deputy Grand Knight, Tim Reese; Chancellor, Kent Bright; Recorder, Joseph Hayes; Financial Secretary, Mike Merle; Treasurer, Autry; Advocate, Dan Dill; Warden, Enrique Hernandez; Inside Guard, Carl Schneberger; and Outside Guard, Tom Rady.

Across Oklahoma Volunteer Translators Needed Veterans USA at its Masses this weekend where Mass on Sept. 27 at 10:30 a.m. Rev. John EDMOND — English-Spanish translators veteran representatives from the Oklahoma Michalicka of St. Mary’s Parish in Ponca City will needed to volunteer at the Good Samaritan Memorial Post 168 will present parishioners in- concelebrate the Mass with Rev. William Novak. Health Clinic of Edmond. The clinic provides free formation about programs for Catholic veterans. The homily will be presented in Czech as well as health care to the uninsured and is open Masses at St. Philip Neri, 1107 Felix Place, are English. Everyone is invited to dress in their Saturdays from 9 to noon. Volunteers choose Saturday, 5 p.m., and on Sunday at 8:15 and 11 traditional Czech Kroj. After Mass, St. John’s Saturdays they are available. Contact 348-9461 a.m. For more information, contact Bob at 672- Society will host a reception in Marion Hall or fill out an application at goodsamaritanof- 7728 or e-mail [email protected]. to honor our Czech heritage and the patron edmond.com/ Volunteers/ Volunteers.html. for whom our parish was named. Coffee and St. Eugene’s Turns 50 kolaches (traditional Czech pastry) will be served. Health Care Workers Sought OKLAHOMA CITY — The Catholic School of EDMOND — Primary health care providers St. Eugene is celebrating its 50th birthday! A Retreat Set at OLOG are needed to volunteer at the Good Samaritan celebration will be held Sept. 18-19. Alumns of the OLOG — The Archdiocesan Catholic Committee Health Clinic. Needed are family medicine physi- school, past principals and teachers will be on Scouting and Camp Fire will host its 2009 cians, internists and advanced nurse practition- attending the event. It will include a school tour Outdoor Retreat Experience Oct. 9-11 at Our ers. The clinic provides free health care to the and picnic on Sept. 18 and Mass and an alumni Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Camp. The camp is uninsured and is open Saturdays from 9 to noon. gathering on Sept. 19. If you are an alum of the open to youth groups, Boy Scouts, Girls Scouts, Volunteers choose Saturdays they are available. school, please register online at www.steugene- Camp Fire USA, Venturers, individuals, youth Contact 348-9461 or fill out an application school.org. For more information, contact the leaders and parents. Individual youth are at goodsamaritanofedmond.com/Volunteers/- school at (405) 751-0067. welcome to attend, but a parent should consider Volunteers.html. attending with the child. All adults attending Fall Fest Set in Ponca City must have Safe Environment Training. Training Parish Welcomes Back Catholics PONCA CITY — St. Mary’s School Annual Fall will be offered for those wishing to become OKLAHOMA CITY — Many Catholics Fest will be held Sept. 26 from 6:15 to 10 p.m. a religious emblem counselor. For more informa- wander away from their faith. We have a gentle Family fun featuring game booths, inflatables, tion, contact the Archdiocesan Office of Youth way to come back to your Church family through silent and live auctions, raffle, bratwurst and and Young Adults at (405) 721-9220, or e-mail Catholics Coming Home. We meet for two hours much more will be available at the event. There is [email protected]. on Wednesdays for six weeks. Meetings start Sept. no admission charge and proceeds will benefit St. 9 at 7 p.m. at Christ the King Church at 8005 Mary’s School. St. Mary’s is located at 721 S. Mount Magic on Oct. 24 Dorset Drive, Oklahoma City. Seventh Street. OKLAHOMA CITY — Mount St. Mary Catholic High School will host its annual Magic at the Masses Set for Veterans Czech Mass Sept. 27 Mount Dinner Auction and Dance on Oct. 24. The MIDWEST CITY — Sept. 12-13, St. Philip Neri YUKON — St. John Nepomuk Church will event will be held from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the will host the Catholic War honor the people of Czech descent with a special Embassy Suites Hotel in Norman. SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:07 AM Page 8

8 Sooner Catholic ● August 30, 2009 Vietnamese Catholic Bring Gift of Our Lady of LaVang On Aug. 16, hundreds gathered at Our Lady’s Cathedral for the first Archdiocesan celebration of Our Lady of LaVang. Dozens walked in the outside procession, many organizations were represented with flags, while men carried the statue of Our Lady of LaVang to the church. Archbishop Beltran celebrated Mass with Father Weisenburger and Father Thanh Nguyen. A shrine and gazebo are being planned for the grounds of Our Lady’s Cathedral. History of Our Lady of LaVang During much of the 18th century, the nation of Vietnam was embattled in various struggles for power and domination. The northern regions fell under the lords of the Trinh family, while in the southern realm, the Nguyen lords took power. As the 18th century drew toward its close, both of these rulers were shaken and threatened by peasant uprisings and emerging rebel forces. The strongest among the many uprisings was led by the three brothers from Tay Son. In short order, they overthrew the Nguyen lords and The procession of Our Lady of LaVang. defeated the Trinh lords to restore national unity for the first time since the decline of the Le Meanwhile, Nguyen Anh continued his insur- gathered in small groups to say the rosary and to dynasty. A Tay Son brother was enthroned to be gency in trying to reclaim his throne. Earlier in his pray. Unexpectedly, one night they were visited by King Quang Trung. run from the Tay Son rebels in 1777, he found an apparition of a beautiful lady in a long cape, refuge on the Phu Quoc Island, where Monsignor holding a child in her arms, with two angels at her Pierre Pigneau de Behaine of The Society of sides. The people recognized the Lady as Our Foreign Missions directed a seminary for youths Blessed Mother. from neighboring countries. The bishop persuaded She told them that from that day on, all those him to seek help from King Louis XVI of France. who came to this place to pray would get their King Canh Thinh knew that Nguyen Anh prayers heard and answered. After this first received support from the French missionary and apparition, the Blessed Mother continued to worried that the Vietnamese Catholics would also appear to the people in this same place many endorse his reign. He began to restrict the practice times throughout this period of nearly 100 years of Catholicism in the country. On Aug. 17, 1798, of religious persecution. King Canh Thinh issued an anti-Catholic edict From the first time the Lady of LaVang ap- and an order to destroy all Catholic churches peared, the people who took refuge there erected and seminaries. A most grievous persecution of a small and desolate chapel in her honor. Despite Vietnamese Catholics and missionaries began its isolated location in the high mountains, and lasted until 1886. Even after Nguyen Anh groups of people continued to find ways to pene- succeeded in reclaiming his throne, his successors trate the deep and dangerous jungle to venerate continued the vehement campaign against the Lady of LaVang. Catholics. In 1886, after the persecution had officially It was amidst this great suffering that the ended, Bishop Gaspar ordered a church to be Lady of LaVang came to the people of Vietnam. built in honor of the Lady of LaVang. The bishop The name LaVang was believed to be originated in proclaimed the Lady of LaVang as the the name of the deep forest in the central region of Vietnam (now known as Quang Tri City) where Protectorate of the Catholics. In 1928, a larger there was an abundance of a kind of trees named church was built. This church was destroyed in La’ Vang. It was also said that its name came from 1972 during the Vietnam War. the Vietnamese meaning of the word “Crying Out,” On June 19, 1988, Pope John Paul II, in the to denote the cries for the help of people being canonizing ceremony of the 117 Vietnamese persecuted. , publically and repeatedly recognized The first apparition of the Lady of LaVang was the importance and significance of the Lady of noted in 1798, when the persecution of Viet- LaVang and expressed a desire for the rebuilding namese Catholics began. Many Catholics from of the LaVang Basilica to commemorate the The statue of Our Lady of Lavang being carried into the nearby town of Quang Tri sought refuge in 200th anniversary of the first apparition of the the Cathedral. the deep forest of LaVang. At night, they often Lady of LaVang in August of 1998. SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:07 AM Page 9

August 30, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 9 Knit Two, Pray Two Christ the King Group Knits Shawls of Comfort By Cara Koenig The Sooner Catholic When you are not feeling well, one of the first things most people do is wrap up in something warm and comforting. That is the driving thought behind Christ the King’s prayer shawl ministry, to give comfort to the sick and downhearted. The idea is simple — a knitter, while creating a shawl, prays for the person who will receive it that they might find comfort, peace, love and God’s healing while they are going through their time of need. The knitter doesn’t know who will get their shawl or if they are sick or going through a rough time. They just know that the receiver needs comfort and prayers. “There are 12 knitters in the shawl ministry,” said Pam Cullen, the senior adult ministry director at Christ the King. The idea was found on a Web site and Cullen liked the idea and ordered the book that outlines the ministry. The group meets once a month to knit and talk, while others participate by knitting at home. “At least once a week I find a new shawl on my desk and I take it to Father Stansberry to be blessed and place it in my closet until it is needed,” said Cullen. The shawls have begun to take on a life of their own over the last year since the group has been knitting. “Everyone who receives the shawl is so grateful and moved,” said Cullen. Some shawls have been returned to be reused, the receiver having gained so much and wanting to pass it on. Others have called Cullen and asked if it was all right to give it to some- one else they knew who was going through a rough time and could use it. Each shawl is sent with a card and in it is this blessing. “Be well, be warm, be loved and be comforted.” With more than 40 shawls having been I love made, that is a lot of comfort and love. to knit and it is a prayerful thing to do. Dolores Beck

Anne De Marino crochets a shawl. Dorothy Louis, Dolores Beck and Laura Disbrow in the knitting circle. SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:07 AM Page 10

10 Sooner Catholic ● August 30, 2009 Birth Choice Sets Scout Earns Eagle Scholarship ARDMORE — Donald “Wes” Weaver has been selected to Date for Annual receive one of four $20,000 Mabel and Lawrence S. Cooke National Eagle Scout scholarships. The endowment provides a Life Celebration maximum grant of $20,000 and pays up to $5,000 per year for Birth Choice of Oklahoma Inc. four years. will host its 17th annual Celebration Over 4,500 applications were submitted for different Eagle of Life Festival on Respect Life on Scout scholarship programs. Wes’ selection as a Cooke Sunday, Oct. 4. The event will be held scholarship recipient represents recognition of his superb at the Myriad Gardens in downtown record of accomplishments, which include supervising the Donald “Wes” Oklahoma City. construction of a 112-foot bridge in Lake Murray State Park, Weaver Check-in time is 1:15 p.m. on the earning all 121 Boy Scout Merit Badges and commitment to northeast side of the Gardens, at his Catholic faith demonstrated through his participation in many religious Robinson and Sheridan. The whole activities Scouting offers. family is invited to enjoy an after- Wes attends St. Mary Catholic Church in Ardmore. The Men of St. Mary noon of fun and entertainment. Be sponsor and support Scout Troop 112. Wes graduated in May from Plainview sure to bring your lawn chairs! High School and the Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics, regional Activities include our annual Life- center Ardmore. He will be attending Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Walk, Teen Fearless Factor Follies Terre Haute, Ind., majoring in mechanical engineering. The National Eagle competition, free moon walk and Scout Association, under the direction of the national office, Boy Scouts of slide, face painting and other activi- America, selects the winner of this scholarship by a committee. This committee ties for the kids, music provided by also determines the number and size of all scholarships to be granted each year the band, Zero to Sixty, food and free * Youth group participation in to deserving Eagle Scouts graduating from high school. balloons. LifeWalk T-shirts are avail- our Fearless Factor Follies contest. One of the nation’s largest youth development organizations, the Boy able. The Celebration of Life is one * Come join the face painting Scouts of America currently has 2.8 million youth members and over a million of the major annual fund-raisers for and other children’s activities. adult volunteers. The Archdiocese of Oklahoma City has strong Scouting Birth Choice. Birth Choice is an interdenomi- programs throughout the state and is represented in the National Catholic Suggested minimum registration national, 501(c)3 non-profit organi- Committee on Scouting. donation of $10 per individual or $25 zation. Birth Choice exists to provide for a family of 3-plus. for the needs of pregnant women, so they can choose life for themselves Priests Help Ease Burdens Life Presents How to Celebrate! and their unborn babies. Centers For much of my life I have had to with a Catholic * Walk with us and encourage provide confidential pregnancy tests, create my own expectations. Some- priest. others to do so! limited ultrasounds, prenatal assess- times I reached for the stars, but more From that day * Get sponsors for your walk. ments, STD testing, maternity and often than not, I played it safe, taking on I looked for an The more walkers with sponsors, the infant clothing, diapers and formula, low risks and making small gains. opportunity to write more money for helping unborn counseling, community service coor- There was a time I would take what about it. I also babies and their moms! dination, access to medical care, was given and not say a word. sought chances to I have many priests that I share about other * Back again this year … transportation and housing, all at no cost. All donations are tax deductible consider friends. If all those friends personal struggles Celebration of Life wristbands! Only By Bill Zalot as allowed by IRS regulations. lined up, it might resemble a line to a in my life as a $1 each, available in light blue, sage confessional at or Christmas. person with a dis- green or chocolate brown. For more information, call Jan O’Neill at 606-8426, or register When I was angry at God, these holy ability.I saw myself as a voice for those * LifeWalk T-shirts, $10 donation online at watchfortheunborn.org. men kept me from walking away from who could not, or would not, speak. I each or FREE with $100 in sponsors. the Catholic Church. saw this as a definite calling; a mission I have poured out my soul to many for my life. My life had purpose and of these men. On the day my brother, this was a definite change. Parish Starts Welcome Back Campaign Joe died, it was Father Edward Bell I am writing this on the occasion of EDMOND — Catholics who are the entrance to the Commons. Child who brought me back from the brink. the Feast of St. Lawrence, who had the separated from the Church, for any care will be provided. Recently, I spoke with him, reminding courage to die for people like myself — reason, are invited to “Come Home!” If you are currently not practic- him what that time meant for me. “the poor, the broken, the disabled.” The Evangelization Board at St. John ing your Catholic Faith, you are It was the first time I shared a When he was asked to bring “the treas- personal loss with a priest. His under- ures of the Church,” he brought us, the Baptist Parish is offering the invited to these sharing sessions standing that day in 1992 has allowed sealing his fate as a . There was “Catholics Coming Home” program for an opportunity to voice concerns me to do the same with other priests in a time I did not feel like a treasure of on three consecutive Tuesday and ask questions about the time of need. Just as importantly, that the Church, but now I do, and that is a evenings: Sept. 8, 15 and 22 from 7 to Catholic Church. Every effort is day I realized through this priest that definite change. 8:30 p.m. in the Council Room. These made to be non-threatening and non- these men could be friends, they could EDITOR’S NOTE: Bill Zalot is a informal sessions are facilitated by judgmental. be trusted. This new attitude took time freelance writer who lives in Levittown, lay people, including former non- For more information about for my family to accept. It was a defi- Pa. Although afflicted with spastic practicing Catholics. The Church is Catholics Coming Home, call Connie nite change from my parents’ mind- cerebral palsy, he writes extensively for located at 9th and Boulevard in Fox Moore at 473-3453 or Nancy set. My parents were upset I shared Catholic publications. Zalot can be Edmond. Follow the outdoor signs to Martin at 922-2292. the details of my brother’s overdose reached at [email protected]. SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:07 AM Page 11

August 30, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 11 Supreme Court Justice Let the Veil Slip with Abortion Comment Sometimes, the veil slips. loom large among the eugenic impulse lives on, however, life movement among U.S. Catholics, It certainly did in a recent New those “populations no reasonable person can now doubt, so President Barack Obama (repre- York Times Magazine interview with we don’t want to Justice Ginsburg having lifted the senting one of those population groups U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth have too many of.” veil. that some people “don’t want to have Bader Ginsburg. There, in the course Little surprise, That much, as I say, we should too many of”) could have been a pro- of relating her surprise at the Court’s then, that the Na- have known all along. What continues life leader among African-Americans 1980 decision upholding the Hyde tional Reproductive to baffle me is the acquiescence of (who in fact are more pro-life than Amendment (which banned federal Rights Action America’s African-American leader- their white fellow countrymen). funding for abortion), Justice League (NARAL) ship in the decimation of America’s Obama, like Kennedy, chose another By George Ginsburg had the following to say had “no comment” black population by Roe vs. Wade — path. And while his declared intention Weigel about legal history, social policy and when asked about for even without that Medicaid fund- to reduce the number of abortions political surprises: “Frankly, I had Justice Ginsburg’s ing of abortion to which Ruth Bader is welcome, his administration’s thought that at the time Roe was comments. One wonders what the first Ginsburg once looked forward with policies seem certain to continue decided, there was concern about African-American president of the evident satisfaction, abortion has the assault on America’s African- population growth and particularly United States will say when Justice taken a tremendous toll in the American population — all in the growth in populations that we don’t Ginsburg leaves the Court. African-American community since name of “choice” and progress. want to have too many of. So that Roe That the contemporary pro- 1973 and is likely the primary reason It is all too strange. And very, very was going to be then set up for abortion movement in America is the why African-Americans now consti- sad. Justice Ginsburg deserves, I Medicaid funding of abortion.” outgrowth of the early 20th century tute our second-largest minority, after suppose, a measure of credit for saying Turn that phrase over in your eugenics movement — which explicit- Hispanic-Americans. And the black publicly what NARAL and Planned mind — “populations that we don’t ly sought to limit “populations that we political leadership has, with rare Parenthood and the rest of that gang want to have too many of.” Rather odd, don’t want to have too many of” — is exceptions, supported the abortion have long believed. But where is the wouldn’t you say — odd in itself, and well-known to everyone who has license. outrage at this blatant defense of odd in light of such 20th century bothered to study the history in How does this make any human legally sponsored and federally funded horrors as the Holocaust and the question. Margaret Sanger, foundress sense? How does it make any political eugenics? And especially among Ukrainian terror famine, justified by of Planned Parenthood, was a devout sense — to support an abortion regime African-Americans? Where is the new their perpetrators on precisely such eugenicist. Indeed, eugenics was very that drastically cuts down your own Frederick Douglas when his people, grounds? Then there is Justice much the progressive cause back in group’s numbers? Is there any other and the rest of us, need him? Ginsburg’s rationale for Roe vs. Wade my grandparents’ day, and enjoyed occasion in history when a political George Weigel is a Distinguished and its judicially created license to considerable support among the upper leadership has been complicit in the Senior Fellow of the Ethics and Public abortion-on-demand: Roe was in- classes. Then came Hitler and his unnatural (indeed violent) demise of Policy Center in Washington, D.C. tended to clear the legal path to quack racial philosophy and his geno- its own population? I don’t know of one. Weigel’s column is distributed by the federal funding of abortions for poor cidal “doctors” — and eugenics under- Just as Sen. Edward Kennedy Denver Catholic Register, the news- — read “black” — people, who clearly standably got a very bad name. That could have been the leader of the pro- paper of the Archdiocese of Denver. Our Hearts Find Peace When We Choose to Feed the Good Wolf “One evening an old Cherokee wolf in my selfishness, people pleasing, we experience the when we pause and respond in a Indian told his grandson about a taking things personally and sitting joy of feeding the healthy loving way to someone who debate that goes on inside people. He on my pity pot, feeling envious and Good wolf within. has said or done something hurtful, said, “My son, the battle is between resentful, giving advice, being intoler- We are feeding rather than reacting in a hurtful, in- two ‘wolves’ inside us all. One wolf is ant and judgmental of both slow and the Good wolf when appropriate way. Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, fast drivers, worrying about financial we are attentively We are feeding the Good wolf regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, insecurity, being concerned about what listening and being when we enjoy a good steak, watch a resentment, inferiority,lies, false pride, others think of me, controlling the present to another beautiful sunset, chuckle at our frailty, superiority and ego.” uncontrollable, the list goes on and on. and focusing on hug a child, hold a hand, lovingly touch By Joe The other wolf is Good. It is joy, Jesus taught us that to be human understanding what our mate, pray in a chapel, read a good peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, is to be good and that the basic condi- they are telling us Froehle book, walk in a park, dance in the rain, kindness, benevolence, truth, empathy, tion of humanity is love and goodness. without judgment enjoy a malt, accompany a friend, generosity, compassion and faith.” And so we as humans are generally nor defensiveness and without trying laugh in the shower, kiss our spouse, The grandson thought about it for feeding the Good wolf within, in being to solve their problem nor giving them do an act of kindness, smile, etc. a minute and then asked his grand- the person God is wanting us to be. advice. It is good for us to notice and father: “Which wolf wins?” The old We are feeding the Good wolf We are feeding the Good wolf acknowledge when we have fed the Cherokee simply replied, “The one you when we spend time in prayer and when we reach out of ourselves in Evil wolf and forgive ourselves as God feed.” meditation, being grateful for our service to others, offering a smile or a has forgiven us. And we can notice and Isn’t this story powerful!?!?…. blessings, asking God for knowledge of kind word, supporting another, com- acknowledge the many ways we have “The one you feed.” His will for us and for the power to forting someone who is grieving or fed the Good wolf, be grateful, and So simple. Yet, we make it so carry out that will. As we carry out His bringing food to the poor, etc. know that Jesus, God-made man, is difficult. I find myself feeding the Evil will and follow the teachings of Jesus, We are feeding the Good wolf smiling. [email protected] SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:07 AM Page 12 SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:07 AM Page 13 SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:07 AM Page 14

14 Sooner Catholic ● August 30, 2009 Jobs Box Director of Religious Education supervisory-level experience preferred. Salary is possess computer proficiency in Word, Excel and Christ the King Church in Oklahoma City is commensurate with experience. Send information to Outlook; excellent organizational skills with the seeking an experienced Director of Religious Dr. Richard Ludwick, Provost, c/o Human Re- ability to multi-task; excellent typing and document Education. The director is responsible for overseeing sources, St. Gregory’s University, 1900 W. Mac- production skills; Publisher or equivalent software the K-12 religious education for students not Arthur, Shawnee, Okla. 74804, [email protected], proficiency preferred; positive oral and written com- attending Catholic school, coordinating the RCIA (405) 878-5350. For full description, go to munication skills; and the ability to relate to and program, Confirmation, First Communion and First catharchdioceseokc.org/sooner/jobs.htm. professionally interact with staff, volunteers and the Confession. The director also will be responsible for public. Preference will be given to candidates who developing and coordinating a strong adult educa- Assistant Director of Admissions are bilingual in Spanish. Send cover letter, resume tion program for the parish. The applicant should be St. Gregory’s is taking applications for position and salary history to Human Resources, 1501 N. well-versed in Catholic doctrine, work well with of Assistant Director of Admissions. The successful Classen Blvd, Oklahoma City 73106, or a variety of people and have strong initiative. candidate’s responsibilities include marketing to [email protected]. EOE Candidates should possess a degree in religion or and building positive relationships with prospective theology, preferably a master’s degree. Resumes students, parents, counselors, parishes and alumni; Associate Director for Children/ Family Services should be sent to Father Rick Stansberry, Christ the analyzing and reviewing applications with the goals Catholic Charities has an opening for an King Catholic Church, P.O. Box 20508, Oklahoma of increasing class size and academic quality; Associate Director for Children and Family Services City, Okla. 73156, or e-mailed to [email protected]. recruiting and enrolling qualified students who to serve on the Executive Team and oversee the are good community members. Education and direct social services for children and families Full-Time Director of Religious Education experience: Bachelor’s degree required; admissions offered by Catholic Charities. Successful candidate St. Philip Neri Parish, Midwest City, is experience in higher education and management of will possess excellent supervisory and administra- looking for a full-time DRE to coordinate the tour guide programs preferred. Send information to tive skills, excellent oral and written communica- religious education program. The position will be Dr. Richard Ludwick, Provost, c/o Human Re- tion skills, a commitment to continuous quality available Oct. 1. Candidates will also be required sources, St. Gregory’s University, 1900 W. Mac- improvement and the ability to relate to and profes- to administer the Safe Environment program of Arthur, Shawnee, Okla. 74804, [email protected], sionally interact with staff, volunteers and the the parish. Salary will be commensurate with (405) 878-5350. For full job description, go to public. The position requires a master’s degree in experience. Send all inquiries and resumes to catharchdioceseokc.org/sooner/jobs.htm. social work from an accredited school of social work, Father Timothy Fuller, St. Philip Neri Catholic a current social work license with clinical specialty, Church, 1107 Felix Place, Midwest City 73110. Dean of Enrollment Management and a minimum of three years in social services to St. Gregory’s is taking applications for position children and families. Please send resumes to Part-time Organist of Dean of Enrollment Management. The successful Human Resources, 1501 N. Classen Blvd, OKC Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Kingfisher, is candidate is responsible for the development, imple- 73106, or [email protected]. EOE looking for a part-time organist to help with mentation, maintenance, analysis and general weekend Masses and/or occasional special events. supervision of all programs related to the recruiting Clinical Director for Children/Family Services Stipend is available. Call the pastor, Father Stephen and retaining of undergraduate students for the Hamilton for more information at (405) 375-4581. College of Arts and Sciences. A bachelor’s degree is Catholic Charities has an opening for a Clinical required with a master’s degree strongly preferred. Director for Children and Family Services. This Part-Time Organist Significant and progressive experience as a position will be responsible for the direction and St. Philip Neri Catholic Church is in need of university admissions leader is expected. Salary is oversight of all counseling programs and other an organist to play for our 5 p.m. Saturday Vigil commensurate with experience. Electronic resumes clinical services of Catholic Charities, including the Mass. Must meet with cantor at 4:30 for brief are preferred, and should include a letter of applica- satellite offices. This position will be responsible for rehearsal. The candidate must be a proficient tion describing experience, qualifications, vision and the development and implementation of policies and sightreader and possess a level of playing skill record of achieving/exceeding enrollment goals at procedures. The successful candidate will possess a to confidently lead an attendance of 300 in the one’s recent institution. Nominations, expression of clinical license and have a master’s degree in social singing of hymns, psalm, and other liturgical music. interest or requests for the complete position speci- work, human services or related field plus five years Knowledge of the Catholic liturgy is preferable but fications may be sent directly to the university: Dr. related experience. Knowledge of Catholic Social not required. Please submit a resume and be Richard Ludwick, Provost, c/o Human Resources, St. Teaching is required. Successful candidate must prepared to play a work of your choice to Gregory’s University, 1900 W. MacArthur, Shawnee, possess excellent oral and written communication demonstrate your skill. Contact Bernard Jones at Okla. 74804, [email protected], (405) 878-5350. skills, a commitment to continuous quality improve- 737-4476 Ext. 123 or [email protected] to ment and the ability to relate to and professionally arrange an interview/audition. — SPN has a Rogers Medical Staff Openings interact with staff, volunteers and the public. Trillium 958 three-manual organ. The Center of Family Love in Okarche has Send cover letter, resume and salary history to immediate openings for the following: CMA - Human Resources, 1501 N. Classen Blvd, OKC Director of Admissions Certified Medication Aide to work weekend doubles. 73106, or [email protected]. EOE St. Gregory’s is taking applications for position LPN or RN - Daytime hours Monday through of Director of Admissions. Successful candidate is Friday. Administrators license a plus! Must have Financial Representative Openings responsible for providing leadership and vision to excellent organizational, administrative and The Knights of Columbus has an opening for a organize and direct all functional areas within the management skills! To apply,call 263-4658, fax 263- financial representative in the Lawton, Enid and Office of Admissions. The director is responsible for 4718, e-mail [email protected] or in person at 635 Tulsa areas. We provide top-rated financial products planning, managing and evaluating undergraduate W. Texas, Okarche, Okla. 73762. EOE to our members and their families and will provide recruitment and admission activities for the College excellent benefits and training. Please contact of Arts and Sciences. Education and experience: Administrative Assistant Kevin W. Pierce for more information at 4001 NW Bachelor’s degree required. Four-plus years of Catholic Charities has an opening for an 122nd St. #827, Oklahoma City 73120, by phone at progressive experience in university admission; administrative assistant. Successful candidate will (405) 514-7660 or e-mail at [email protected]. SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:07 AM Page 15

August 30, 2009 ● Sooner Catholic 15 Calendar SEPTEMBER is at 5:30 p.m. with the Sacrament of 15 Catholic War Veterans USA Therese, meets at St. Joseph Reconciliation available prior to Oklahoma Memorial Post 168 will Carmelite Monastery in Piedmont 2 Eucharistic Adoration at the Mass. Mass is at 7 p.m. For more hold their monthly meeting at 7 p.m. from 1 to 4 p.m. For more informa- Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual information, call the Office of Family in the Sunnylane Family Reception tion, call Susan Staudt at (405) 282- Help, NW 32nd and Western, every Life at (405) 721-8944 or Diane Grim Center located at 3900 SE 29th St. in 6624. Wednesday beginning with Mass at at (405) 528-6252. Del City. For more information, 8:30 a.m. and ends at noon. All are contact Bob at (405) 672-7728 or by 20 Taize Prayer, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. welcome. 8 Catholic War Veterans (of any e-mail at [email protected]. Red Plains Spirituality Center, 728 war/conflict) will meet the second Richland Road SW, Piedmont. For Tuesday of each month in the 15 Dying Well in the Christian more details, call 373-4565. Optional 3 Exposition of the Blessed community room of St. Ann Retire- Tradition from 7 to 9 p.m., a panel video on Taize prayer at 6 p.m. Sacrament at Epiphany Parish, in ment Center at 7 p.m. For more presentation on End of Life will be the chapel every Thursday, 8:30 a.m. information, contact Father M. Price held at the Catholic Pastoral Center. 20 The Secular Franciscan Order to 8 p.m. and daily (M,T,W,F) from Oswalt at (405) 567-3404. For more information, contact the of St. Francis Fraternity meets at 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. All are welcome. Office of Family Life at (405) 721- 1:15 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Hospital Epiphany is located at 7336 W. 11 Bingo at St. Joseph’s Parish, 5651. Chapel. For more information, call Britton Road, Oklahoma City 73132. Norman, is scheduled for the second Jim Disbrow at 830-8688. Friday evening of every month. A 17-25 Monthly Novena to the 4 Holy Family Home Mass, 11:30 light dinner is served at 6:30 and two Infant Jesus, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, 20 Pilgrimage Sunday, 10:45 a.m. a.m., Holy Family Home, 6821 Eddie sessions of games are played, the Nat’l Shrine of the Infant Jesus, Anointing of the Sick, 11 a.m. Drive, Midwest City. To confirm that first at 7 p.m. and the second at 8:30 Saint Wenceslaus Church, SH-99 7 Mass/noon lunch, 1 p.m. Benediction Mass will be held that day and for p.m. miles N. I-40 or 20 miles S. I-44 at of the Blessed Sacrament, Prayer of directions, contact the HFMH at 741- Stroud exit, Prague, (405) 567-3080. the Chaplet of the Infant Jesus and 7419. 12 Spanish Pre-Cana. A day for the Litany of the Infant Jesus. Nat’l couples preparing for the Sacrament 19 Retreat, St. Benedict’s Shrine of the Infant Jesus of Prague 4 First Friday Adoration at St. of Marriage. For more information or Spirituality from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 is located in St. Wenceslaus Church, in Oklahoma City. to register, call the Office of Family p.m. with Joanne Yankauskis, OSB. SH-99 7 miles N. I-40 or 20 miles S. I- After the 7:30 a.m. Mass, and Life at (405) 721-8944. Place: Library at Red Plains 44 at Stroud exit, Prague, (405) 567- concludes at 5:30 p.m. with closing Spirituality Center. Call (405) 373- 3080. prayer and Benediction. This is open 12 The Benedictine Oblates of 0804 to register by 9/16. Fee: $25, to all. St. Francis is located at 1910 Red Plains Monastery will meet bring a sack lunch. 24 Sympto-thermal Method of NW 19th, (just two blocks east of from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. They join the Natural Family Planning, three Penn), Oklahoma City. Community for Vespers, followed by 20 The Community of the nights, Sept. 24, Oct. 28 and Nov. 25 a potluck dinner. For more informa- Secular Order of the Blessed at 7 p.m. at St. 4 First Friday Sacred Heart Mass tion, contact Sister Eunice at 373- Virgin Mary of Mt. Carmel and Church, Edmond, basement council at the Catholic Pastoral Center. 4565 or [email protected]. St. Teresa of Jesus - Oklahoma room. Cost of supplies is $135. Free Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Community and Province of St. child care available upon request. National Infant Shrine Celebrates 60 Years PRAGUE — The National Shrine Shrine of the Infant Jesus of Prague. Catholic Devotions,” and the second of the Infant Jesus celebrated its 60th Danny Morgan, state representative, one was “Devotion to The Infant Jesus anniversary on Sunday, Aug. 2. The presented the Shrine with a citation of Prague.” Devotional prayers to the Catholic Radio day began with Mass celebrated by from the state of Oklahoma. Infant Jesus of Prague followed his Abbot Father Lawrence Stasyszen, Father George V. Johnson, who talks. Everyone enjoyed a nice evening Five Days a Week abbot of St. Gregory’s. The homily was obtained permission in 1949 to meal served by the Shrine. John presented by Father M. Price Oswalt, establish a National Shrine to the Michael Talbot performed in concert. on pastor of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Infant Jesus of Prague in Prague, Volleyball and horseshoes were en- Church and Rector of the Shrine. died in 1973. His daughter, Anna joyed by many of the visitors through- KTLR 890 AM Jim Greff, Prague city manager, Panzarino from New York, and out the afternoon, while younger presented the Shrine with a proclama- his sister, Georgiana Oberst from guests enjoyed bouncing on a 50-foot tion from the city mayor’s office which Oklahoma City, attended the celebra- inflatable obstacle course. Monday through states that the city of Prague recog- tion. Visitors from 12 states were nizes both the spiritual and economic After a beautiful and very moving present to enjoy the celebration. Friday from impact that the Shrine has in the service, the Shrine served everyone a Rhonda Bartos, director of the Shrine, 2 to 7:30 p.m. community and that the mayor of wonderful barbecue lunch. Matthew said she would like to thank everyone Prague proclaimed Aug. 2, 2009, as Arnold from California presented a who contributed their time, prayers a day of celebration commemorating couple of talks during the afternoon. and talent into making this a wonder- the 60th anniversary of the National The first was “Art, History and ful day of prayer and reflection. SC_version4.qxd 9/2/2009 9:08 AM Page 16

16 Sooner Catholic ● August 30, 2009 Inaugural Women of Faith Conference Draws Over 300 NORMAN — More than 300 participants, holiness requires in- women participated in the first volvement in the world. Women of Faith, Women of Action “Leadership is about taking Conference held here Aug. 22 at St. ownership,” Father Molina said. He Mark Catholic Church. said he often leads pilgrimages The theme of the conference was so Catholics can understand the Spirituality, Service and Leadership. connectedness of spirituality. Pilar Phillips browsed among “To be holy, you must be engaged the various Catholic in the world,” Father ministries that filled “To be holy, you must said. He said one the booth space in way the National St. Mark’s commons be engaged in the Council of Catholic area, promoting their world.” Women involves works with literature itself in the world is and videos. She said Father Juan Molina through its support the conference is a of the Water for Life way to be refreshed and connected ministry sponsored by Catholic Silvana Rodriquez looks at Catholic items displayed at the conference. to the true meaning of the Catholic Relief Services. CRS helps establish faith. wells for clean drinking water in “I love coming to this kind of Third World countries. Father gathering,” Phillips said. “It brings Molina, of San Antonio, said CRS me back to the center, where we all looks at the ministry as “water for need to be.” life and water of life.” He said the Among the speakers was Father water for life is what the program Juan Molina, O.S.S.T, an Advocacy pulls from the ground to quench the Program coordinator for the South- thirst of the less fortunate of the west Region of Catholic Relief world. Water of life is the baptism we Services. receive when we are consecrated to Father Molina told conference Christ.

Rick and Bev Feller of Mustang at the Worldwide Marriage Encounter booth.

Father Philip Seeton chats with a conference participant. Father was displaying icons, some of which were created by Bev Layton of Lawton. More than 300 women attended the conference on Aug. 22.