March/April 2021

3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 1 3/17/21 11:54 AM PROFOUND WORKS Reveal the Truth & Light of Christ

♦ JESUS OF NAZARETH ♦ ESCAPE FROM EVIL’S DARKNESS Archaeologists Retracing the Footsteps of Christ Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J. Hesemann he brilliant Jesuit draws together the best advice from er his best-selling archaeological biography Mary of TCatholic spiritual masters in history with top modern ANazareth, Hesemann set out again for the Holy Land to scienti c research to o er profound, yet practical ways to live seek traces of the most mysterious and revered figure in out the gospel in our busy days. It is a roadmap to a deeper history, Jesus of Nazareth. relationship with the Lord and to authentic transformation. Bible in hand, he takes readers on a stunning tour through Spitzer guides readers through the workings of moral trans- the places Jesus lived, worked, and su ered to give a concrete, formation, with detailed sketches of all the cardinal and colorful sense of the historical Jesus and the world he knew. theological virtues, especially love. Using insights from Along the way, archaeologists reveal to Hesemann a host of St. Ignatius of Loyola, and modern psychology, he concludes little-known discoveries, from the apostles’ boat to Herod’s with an in-depth study of the sacrament of confession and the palace to the sites of Jesus’ miracles.  is book brings you face- staggering power of God’s loving mercy. to-face with the mystery of the Incarnation—God who became EEDP . . . Sewn Softcover, $21.95 man and lived among us. Illustrated. JOFNP . . . Sewn So cover, Illustrated, $21.95 “Fr. Spitzer’s wisdom and insights are on full display in this work, revealing the light of Christ and sound moral principles for overcoming “Hesemann’s up-close experience shines forth on every page. the darkness of our times.” He succeeds admirably, o ering a vision as immediate and sharp as —Fr. Donald Calloway, M.I.C., Author, Consecration to St. a breeze from the Sea of Galilee.” — Pinault, Ph.D. Author, e Cruci x on Mecca’s Front Porch “The spiritual depth of this book is breathtaking! It is a mystical journey from the darkness of sin to the penetrating light of God’s “With probing questions and interesting theories, Hesemann takes life-giving love. A spiritual masterpiece!” us on an exciting journey through the Holy Land that reads like a —Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers, Author, Behold the Man: A Catholic thrilling detective story.” — Steve Ray, Author, Upon is Rock; Vision of Male Spirituality Host, e Footprints of God  lm series Also by Father Spitzer Also by Michael Hesemann CHRIST VS. SATAN IN MARY OF NAZARETH The first archaeological biography of OUR DAILY LIVES the Mother of Christ. From Mary's home Fr. Spitzer tackles the topic of recognizing in Nazareth to her empty tomb in Jerusa- and overcoming spiritual evil. His focus is lem, this is a journey full of surprising the human heart. His goal: our moral and insights into the mystery of the Mother spiritual transformation, which leads to true peace and genuine happiness. of God. CVSP . . . Sewn Softcover, $19.95 MNP . . . Sewn So cover, Illustrated, $19.95

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Table of Contents

Features Columns 3 Holiness as a Matter 8 Back to the Basics: of Routine Q & A on the Rev. Thomas F. Dailey, O.S.F.S. Essential Elements ♦ JESUS OF NAZARETH ♦ of Religious Life ESCAPE FROM EVIL’S DARKNESS 6 Christian Courage Archaeologists Retracing the Footsteps of Christ Spiritual Reading—Part I Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J. —An Expression of Faith in Michael Hesemann he brilliant Jesuit draws together the best advice from Rev. Thomas Dubay, S.M. er his best-selling archaeological biography Mary of TCatholic spiritual masters in history with top modern God and in His Promise ANazareth, Hesemann set out again for the Holy Land to scienti c research to o er profound, yet practical ways to live Bro. Daniel Sokol, O.S.B. 11 Answering the Master’s seek traces of the most mysterious and revered figure in out the gospel in our busy days. It is a roadmap to a deeper Call—I Will Give You history, Jesus of Nazareth. relationship with the Lord and to authentic transformation. 16 Contemplating God’s Patience a Hundredfold Bible in hand, he takes readers on a stunning tour through Spitzer guides readers through the workings of moral trans- & Imploring the Trusting Sr. Cecilia Joseph Nguyen, the places Jesus lived, worked, and su ered to give a concrete, formation, with detailed sketches of all the cardinal and CMRM colorful sense of the historical Jesus and the world he knew. theological virtues, especially love. Using insights from Patience of & Anna Along the way, archaeologists reveal to Hesemann a host of St. Ignatius of Loyola, and modern psychology, he concludes —Homily for 25th Annual 13 Religious Pioneers in little-known discoveries, from the apostles’ boat to Herod’s with an in-depth study of the sacrament of confession and the staggering power of God’s loving mercy. World Day of Consecrated Life America: Trailblazers of palace to the sites of Jesus’ miracles.  is book brings you face- Francis to-face with the mystery of the Incarnation—God who became EEDP . . . Sewn Softcover, $21.95 Faith—Blessed Francis man and lived among us. Illustrated. Xavier Seelos, C.Ss.R. JOFNP . . . Sewn So cover, Illustrated, $21.95 “Fr. Spitzer’s wisdom and insights are on full display in this work, Departments Rev. Richard Boever, C.Ss.R. revealing the light of Christ and sound moral principles for overcoming the darkness of our times.” “Hesemann’s up-close experience shines forth on every page. 2 Institute Insights 18 Doctor of the Heart, He succeeds admirably, o ering a vision as immediate and sharp as —Fr. Donald Calloway, M.I.C., Author, Consecration to St. Joseph a breeze from the Sea of Galilee.” Healer of the Soul: 20 InnerView —David Pinault, Ph.D. Author, e Cruci x on Mecca’s Front Porch “The spiritual depth of this book is breathtaking! It is a mystical The Spiritual Counsel journey from the darkness of sin to the penetrating light of God’s With Mother Marie Julie life-giving love. A spiritual masterpiece!” of Dr. Conrad Baars “With probing questions and interesting theories, Hesemann takes Saegaert, SCMC, Superior us on an exciting journey through the Holy Land that reads like a —Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers, Author, Behold the Man: A Catholic Mortification Therapy thrilling detective story.” — Steve Ray, Author, Upon is Rock; Vision of Male Spirituality General of the Sisters of Rev. Brian Mullady, O.P. Host, e Footprints of God  lm series Charity of Our Lady, Mother Also by Father Spitzer Also by Michael Hesemann of the Church 28 Theological Reflections CHRIST VS. SATAN IN MARY OF NAZARETH Authenticity in the 23 IRL News & Notes The first archaeological biography of OUR DAILY LIVES Religious Life Fr. Spitzer tackles the topic of recognizing the Mother of Christ. From Mary's home 26 Affiliate in Focus Rev. John A. Hardon, S.J. in Nazareth to her empty tomb in Jerusa- and overcoming spiritual evil. His focus is lem, this is a journey full of surprising the human heart. His goal: our moral and Handmaids of the insights into the mystery of the Mother spiritual transformation, which leads to true peace and genuine happiness. Precious Blood of God. —New Market, Tennessee CVSP . . . Sewn Softcover, $19.95 MNP . . . Sewn So cover, Illustrated, $19.95 www.ignatius.com

P.O. Box 1339, Ft. Collins, CO 80522 (800) 651-1531

3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 1 3/17/21 11:54 AM Institute Insights March/April 2021 Vol. XLV No. 2 R e v . T h o m a s N e l s o n , O.P r a e m . ur Mission: Religious Life is published Oby the Institute on Religious Life, Inc. ev. John A. Hardon, S.J., in his Theological Reflections (IRL). The IRL is a national organization writes on “Authenticity in Religious Life.” Religious founded in 1974 to encourage, support Rwomen and men are called to be public witnesses and assist authentic consecrated life as of the poor, chaste, and obedient Christ, yet many live a set forth by Vatican II and its implemen- compromised life, hardly authentic which undermines such tation by the Holy See. Membership in witness. One way of renewing religious life is to see that the IRL is comprised of bishops, priests, holiness is not so much fostered in extraordinary deeds as religious and lay persons. in fidelity to the ordinary routine of daily life. That is the doctrine of St. Religious Life is sent to active mem- as Rev. Thomas F. Dailey, O.S.F.S., points out in his ar- bers of the IRL ($30 per year for U.S. ticle, “Holiness as a Matter of Routine.” Courage is often manifested in membership) or to those who request it. great deeds but it takes even more heroic courage to be faithful in little Institutional or library subscriptions are things. Bro. Daniel Sokol, O.S.B., reflects on Christian courage in his ar- also available. Send all correspondence ticle, “An Expression of Faith in God and in His Promise.” Patience is a to Religious Life, P.O. Box 7500, Liber- virtue attached to the hinge virtue of courage and Pope Francis reflects tyville, IL 60048, or call 847-573-8975. marvously about it in his homily for the 2021 World Day of Consecrated Life. He focuses on the patience of Simeon and Anna. Executive Editor Rev. Thomas Nelson, O.Praem. exemplify an authentic Christian life, and in America, God has raised up many models of faith who were religious pioneers in our Managing Editor Mr. Michael D. Wick country. Blessed Seelos, C.Ss.R., is among them and Rev. Richard Boever, C.Ss.R., writes about him in Religious Pioneers in America: Assistant Editor/Circulation Mrs. Anne Tschanz Trailblazers of Faith. A person is very much influenced by what he reads. Layout & Design That is why spiritual reading is a part of authentic Christian living. But Catholic Creative Services, Inc. we must select carefully what we read because much spiritual literature IRL Founder is mediocre and some can even be harmful. Rev. Thomas Dubay, S.M., + Rev. John A. Hardon, S.J. helps us with that in his column, Back to Basics: Q&A on the Essential IRL Executive Director Elements of Religious Life. Mr. Jeffrey Karls There are many things that can inspire a religious vocation, but first IRL Officers among them are religious themselves. In Answering the Master’s Call, Sr. Most Rev. Robert F. Vasa President Cecilia Joseph Nguyen, CMRM, tells her vocation story and the religious Most Rev. Bob Lombardo, C.F.R. sisters who inspired it in her testimony, “I Will Give You a Hundredfold.” Vice President Mother Marie Julie Saegaert, SCMC, shares her very interesting vocation story which she tells us in her InnerView. There are many things she has Mr. Paul Doetsch, Treasurer accomplished as a religious and superior which merited for her the Pro Mr. Frederick R. Dempsey, Secretary Fidelitate et Virtute award at this year’s National Meeting. Rev. Robert McDermott Much Christian witness is seen only by God and the angels and saints Mrs. Bonnie Quirke but it is indeed very powerful and efficacious in bringing souls to Christ. Mrs. Patricia Sanders The contemplative life, being cloistered from the world, is a hidden silent Mr. Patrick Spencer life seen only by God but necessary for the good of the Church. Like the Executive Committee heart, hidden behind the grill of the rib cage, it is necessary for the life of the body. The Handmaids of the Precious Blood are contemplative © 2021 Institute on Religious Life, Inc. All sisters dedicated to pray for priests as you can read in our Affiliate in Fo- rights reserved. Religious Life is printed cus. Lastly, Rev. Brian Mullady, O.P., gives us a brilliant explanation of Dr. in the U.S.A. Reproduction of material ap- Conrad Baars’ “Mortification Therapy” in his column, Doctor of the Heart, pearing in Religious Life is prohibited with- Healer of the Soul. out written prior permission. Unsolicited articles, poetry and other original works About the Cover: “San Francisco de Sales,” by the Spanish Neoclassic painter may be submitted for consideration. Francisco Bayeu y Subías (1734-1795), depicts St. Francis de Sales delivering Please email submissions to: irlstaff@ the Constitutions of the Order of the Visitation of Mary to St. Jane Frances de religiouslife.com. Submissions may be Chantal. The Visitation Order was founded in 1610 “to give to God daughters edited for length and style. of prayer.”

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 2 3/17/21 11:54 AM Holiness as a Matter of Routine

Whatever one’s particular state-in-life, holiness is meant to happen there. Rather than envisioning devotion as something over and above, or in addition to, the rest of one’s life, St. Francis de Sales affirms that it is cultivated precisely in and through one’s day-to-day realities.

By Rev. Thomas F. Dailey, O.S.F.S.

he title sounds like a contradiction of terms. The state. ... Wherever we may be, we can and should aspire exceptional character of “holiness” hardly aligns to a perfect life.” Twith the mind-numbing repetitiveness of a “rou- A perfect life, devotion, holiness—whatever the tine”—except, perhaps, in religious life! terminology, points to our common Christian vocation. For St. Francis de Sales (1567- For St. Francis de Sales, that call- 1622), Bishop and Doctor of the ing comes to be fulfilled in ways Church, that exception appears, both particular and ordinary. instead, to be the norm. Renowned In his view, true devotion is for his classic Introduction to the De- suited to, and depends for its lo- vout Life, his masterful Treatise on the cus on, one’s particular vocation. Love of God, and his insightful Let- That is, the duties of one’s own ters of Spiritual Direction, Francis also state-in-life constitute the arena wrote a lesser-known book called in which holiness is to happen. As The Spiritual Directory. Originally such, it would be false to suggest published for the Sisters of the Vis- that a wife and mother try to ful- itation of Holy Mary, this little guide fill the same religious exercises of a sets forth a daily plan of devotion woman in a convent; instead, each that succinctly captures the ’s has her own vocation in which profound understanding of what we eminent charity is to be practiced now know as the “universal call to promptly, actively, and faithfully. holiness.” Whatever one’s particular St. Francis de Sales approached state-in-life, holiness is meant to the subject with a firm, but not yet happen there. Rather than en- popular, conviction that holiness visioning devotion as something was something for everyone. In over and above, or in addition to, fact, he wrote the Introduction to the rest of one’s life, St. Francis de the Devout Life as a practical guide Sales affirms that it is cultivated to holiness for people living “in the precisely in and through one’s day- world.” At the basis of his instruc- to-day realities. In other words, tion lies a foundational premise, namely, that “besides holiness need not be construed as an extraordinary phe- those three kinds of devotion [in the contemplative, nomenon; it does not consist of a series of superhuman monastic, and religious life] there are several others actions or a life of heroic habits. In the saint’s view, the adapted to bring perfection to those living in the secular devout life should be the norm, not an exception. For

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 3 3/17/21 11:54 AM all its other-worldliness, the Christian life is still an ordi- writing set forth what obligations the were to fulfill nary one, carried out in this world, through the particu- and provided some spiritual motivation for doing so. lar state to which God has called each of us, but in a life In keeping with his emphasis on holiness as a matter lived extraordinarily well. of how we are to do whatever it is we are called to do, St. St. Francis de Sales highlights this ordinary or “ev- Francis de Sales included in his Spiritual Directory some eryday” conception of the devout life as something that holy thoughts about the ordinary activities that made up can and should become part of each believer’s routine. the Sisters’ daily routine. Corresponding to the horarium Pedagogically, he guides souls toward this perfection by of monastic life, the Salesian directory begins with “Ris- getting them to see devotion as something to be worked ing” in the morning and ends with “Retiring” at night; at “every day.” In his letters, for instance, he regularly in between, we find the saint’s instructions on prepar- reminds his readers that, while we should be “firmly re- ing one’s day, participating in the Liturgy of Hours and solved to serve God with our whole heart and life,” nev- Mass, eating meals, working in silence, enjoying some ertheless, we need not have any anx- recreation, and examining one’s con- ious care or concern about the entirety science. In addition, he penned advice of the spiritual life. Rather, he says, “let on the Sisters’ regular practice of going us think only of living today well, and to Confession and receiving Holy Com- when tomorrow comes, it also will be “St. Francis de Sales munion, as well as on how they should today and we can think of it then.” routinely interact with key personnel In Salesian spirituality, the univer- highlights ordinary in the (i.e., the Mistress of sal call to holiness entails an ordinary or ‘everyday’ Novices and the Superior). (everyday) and dedicated (every day) About each of these subjects—most attentiveness to God’s will. That theory conception of the of which hardly seem to concern the comes to be embodied in the religious stuff of sanctity! – St. Francis de Sales order that St. Francis de Sales founded devout life as counseled a twofold approach to trans- together with St. Jane de Chantal­—the something that forming daily routines into opportuni- Visitation of Holy Mary. ties for holiness. First, the Sisters are to The two founders envisioned their can and should make themselves as attentive as possi- institute in a way quite different from become part of ble to God’s presence, which pervades other religious Orders of the time. The all things. On “rising,” for example, they Visitation would welcome all ladies each believer’s were taught to consider the Resurrec- called to a contemplative vocation, routine.”. tion, in that very moment in which they even those unable to endure the ascetic were experiencing a version of it them- hardships of traditional monastic life. selves! Second, the Sisters are invited to The Sisters could even engage in some degree of chari- affirm their intention to be united with God in each of table work among people in need (following the exam- their activities. Whether receiving a gift of divine Provi- ple of the biblical Visitation). But their primary focus dence in their nourishment, or cooperating with the Cre- was not apostolic, in today’s sense of the active-contem- ator in their work, or abandoning themselves to rest in plative distinction; rather, whatever they did each day the arms of the God who cares for them—anything they was to be marked by, and to lead to, a deepening of their do serves as an opportunity to be united with God, which heart-to-heart relationship with God. remains the end goal of all that they do. To aid the Sisters in accomplishing that, the saintly Indeed, the article on the “Direction of Intention” bishop shared his thoughts on how to live devoutly in the summarily captures the genius of the saint’s opportunis- monastery. His Spiritual Directory followed a genre com- tic approach to holiness. In this instruction, St. Francis mon to religious life at that time. Complementing the de Sales encourages the Sisters to say a little prayer at Rule or Constitutions, a “directory” or “custom book” the beginning of every action, “both exterior and interi- indicated to the nuns the distinguishing traits of their or.” In this prayer, they are to ask for grace, offer to God particular Order, as these were lived out in a common what they are about to do, and promise to accept what- life that united all houses of that Order across different ever comes from it as an expression of the divine will. geographical and cultural locales. More specifically, the In this way, every activity the Sisters undertake is

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 4 3/17/21 11:54 AM transformed into an expres- Some have claimed that sion of worship. The routine the Spiritual Directory de- practice of asking, offering, mands too much, that it con- and accepting thus becomes strains its follower with too a routine spiritual triad bring- many thoughts to consider. ing about the conversion From this viewpoint, his in- from self toward God that un- structions amount to an av- dergirds the work of holiness. alanche of observances. Oth- Moreover, applying this ers fault this writing as saying habitual prayer to all that too little, especially compared they do enables the Sisters to to the saint’s other magisterial see their daily routines with- texts. The critique here sees in the arc of eternity. In that in this book merely superficial more eschatological perspec- pieties that may be useful for tive, the various moments beginners in the religious life and diverse activities of their lives afford them the pos- but offer no spiritual depth for longer lasting benefit. sibility of union with God here and now. And if, in those Against both forms of this “activist” bias, St. Jane de times, their intention is to fulfill God’s will, then their Chantal reminds one of the Visitation superiors that fol- actions cannot fail; for if their sole aim is to please God, lowing the Spiritual Directory does, indeed, “constrain” then they do – no matter the activity or its outcome!— the Sisters! It does so, she says, precisely by showing for through that simple prayer they have already given them that what is truly good—union with God—can themselves and their actions into God’s hands. only come about by mortifying our natural passions and In fact, the entire Spiritual Directory exudes this self-interests so as to turn our attention to, and redirect intentional dynamic. Common to all of the articles— our intention toward, the One who ultimately sets us whether about secular or sacred actions—is­ the rec- free for eternal happiness. And that conversion to holi- ommended repetition of spiritual “aspirations.” For St. ness is, indeed, a lifelong task. Francis de Sales, these biblical or other verbal expres- Later, in an introduction Saint Jane wrote to the sions convey short, ardent movements of the heart to- Visitation custom book of 1624, she who was his closest ward God. For each activity of the day, he suggests holy collaborator states that the Spiritual Directory faithful- thoughts that serve to focus the Sisters’ attention and ly reflects the intention of St. Francis de Sales, namely, intention; but he reminds them that they always enjoy “that our whole life and all our works be dedicated to the liberty to converse with God however the Spirit union with God, so that we might assist in the renewal moves them. of the Church and the salvation of our neighbor by our Adopted at various moments throughout the day, prayer, works and good example, and that we might ex- these holy thoughts keep one mindful of God’s loving cel in every kind of virtue.” presence and serve to arouse affection for God in all That dedication, that renewal, that salvation, that ex- things. Of their importance, Francis de Sales writes in cellence­—it all adds up to a life of perfection, a truly de- the Introduction to the Devout Life that this type of prayer vout life that is our universal Christian vocation. For the “can supply the lack of all other prayers, but its loss can Sisters of the Visitation, and for every state-in-life inspired hardly be repaired by other means. Without this exer- by the Salesian tradition, the Spiritual Directory offers a cise,” he continues, “we cannot properly lead the con- roadmap to that holiness. . . as a matter of routine. templative life, and we can but poorly lead the active life. Fr. Thomas Dailey, O.S.F.S., holds the Without it, rest is mere idleness, and labor is drudgery.” John Cardinal Foley Chair of Homilet- Guided by this method of aspiring to God in all ics and Social Communications at Saint things, the Spiritual Directory brings the Salesian notion Charles Borromeo Seminary in the Archdi- of holiness into the routine matters of each day—which ocese of Philadelphia. His most recent book also happen to be the activities that take up the most Behold This Heart: St. Francis de Sales time every day! Nevertheless, the saint’s learned in- and Devotion to the Sacred Heart (2021), is available struction has not always been enthusiastically received. from Sophia Institute Press.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 5 3/17/21 11:54 AM Christian Courage –An Expression of Faith in God and in His Promise–

By Bro. Daniel Sokol, O.S.B.

arked differences exist between the kind of Christians are challenged to practice on a daily, courage we hear about on the evening news even hourly, basis courage that relies not on one’s own Mand the kind of faith courage that challenges natural strength, but rather on the supernatural power Christians every day to perfection in their journey to- of Christ. ward God. Courage is a derivative virtue—an­ expression of Secular courage manifests itself in isolated episodes faith in God and in His promise. For a Christian, a lack of bravery such as a person dashing into a burning build- of courage is evidence of a lack of faith. ing in order to save the life of a little child, or a soldier The Apostle Thomas, commonly referred to performing a heroic act in the heat of battle that saves as “Doubting Thomas,” surprises us. At the news of lives, perhaps even at the cost of his own. That sort of Lazarus’ death, he hears Jesus’ challenge to faith and noteworthy heroic bravery deserves praise, marks of blurts out, “Let us go to die with Him” (Jn 11:1). It is a honor, and even public recognition. totally spontaneous act which is based on courage and

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 6 3/17/21 11:54 AM faith in Christ. Even Peter, at the Last Supper, spon- of visiting us with physical harm. “Do not be afraid of taneously responds to a faith challenge from Christ, those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; Fear “Even if I have to die with You, I will never disown him rather who can destroy both body and soul in hell” You” (Mt 26:35) (Mt 10:28). They both have the human will to die for Christ, Then, to show us that our real worth (our true in- but do not yet have the divine power to do so, because tegrity) is not to be measured in terms of human values they have not received the gift of the Holy Spirit. It or standards, but rather on eternal standards, in fact is this power from God which distinguishes our purely on the judgment of God, He adds a strict warning: “If human acts from those powered by the Divine. anyone declares himself for Me in the presence of men, What is the source of Christian courage? It is, pre- I, will declare Myself for him in the presence of My cisely, in our integrity—our­ ability to lead a blameless Father in Heaven. But the one who disowns Me in the life in the presence of God and our willing coopera- presence of men, I will disown in the presence of My tion with the will of God. This ability Father in Heaven.” (Mt 10:32-33). in itself is a gift from God, and gives Courage demands of us not to us the grace to face our trials. was desert Jesus in the hour of our trial, in the midst of his trials when he was whether it be caused by the words visited by Eliphaz who encouraged his “Courage is a or deeds of a person, or by our own confidence in God. “Does not your pi- thoughts, fears, omissions, or acts. As ety give you confidence, your blame- derivative virtue—­ Christians, a high degree of fortitude less life give you hope? Can you recall an expression of faith is expected of us. To properly carry out a guiltless man that perished, or have this difficult challenge, we must pray you ever seen a good man brought to in God and in for courage and strength. Jesus asks, nothing?” (Job 4:6-71). “Can you drink the cup that I am go- Later on in the Scriptures during His promise. ing to drink?” (Mt 20:22). When we the Maccabean Revolution, Mattathi- For a Christian, ask that question of ourselves in the as encouraged his people to give, with depths of our hearts, we realize that heroic martyrdom, their lives for the a lack of courage we are not capable, based on our own sake of their covenant with God. “My is a lack of faith.”. powers, to sustain the responsibilities children, play the man and be coura- and the demands that are placed on geous for the Law, for it will bring you our shoulders. We need the strength glory” (1 Mac 2:64). of Christ. Can we live up to the challenge that Je- Examples abound throughout Sacred Scripture sus gives us, based on our own efforts? The answer that allow us to see the necessary connection between is Yes!­—provided we faithfully obey the command of our individual acts of human will to do the will of God, Christ—“Be perfect as my Heavenly Father is perfect” to God’s Law, to the actions of Christ. Jesus advised (Mt 5:48). his disciples regarding the dangers of discipleship, that they must be prepared for persecution from those who Brother Daniel Sokol, OSB, is a Benedictine do not accept the Gospel message. The real danger, monk at Prince of Peace Abbey in Oceanside, of course, does not come from those who are capable California. “Glorify God in Your Body”: Back in Print ue to popular demand, we have re- us by Pope St. John Paul II, i.e., his teachings on the hu- Dcently reprinted Glorify God in Your man person, human sexuality, chastity, marriage, conse- Body: The Theology of the Body for Priests, crated celibacy, and the nature and relationship of male Religious & Other Consecrated Persons, a and female. This is a subject so necessary to understand book by Rev. Brian Mullady, O.P. in these days of “gender ambiguity” and so masterfully In this 64-page book, Father exam- explained by Father Mullady. Cost is $8.95 + S&H. ines one of the principal legacies left to To order visit ReligiousLife.com or call 847-573-8975.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 7 3/17/21 11:54 AM Back to the Basics Q & A on the Essential Elements of Religious Life Spiritual Reading –Part I– By Rev. Thomas Dubay, S.M. ( 2010) Some people think we are in a and power. These present the un- Q golden era of spiritual reading. diluted Gospel, have a great mov- In bygone centuries books were rare ing power of expression, are full and many people could not read. of light, are usually well written Today thousands of new titles roll “God’s Word and often absorbing to the reader. off our presses each year, and in transforms a person, Their interest and relevance span most nations the large majority of oceans and centuries. These works the population can read. Yet other says Scripture. One are the classics, past or present (of people entertain a dim view of the homily should change course it takes some time to recog- spiritual reading scene. They admit nize a present classic). the ready availability of books and me for life, and if your The next level we may call periodicals, but for them it is an “good reading.” Books and articles abundance of mediocrity. I happen life, for eternity as in this category are valuable and to be of the second group and would well. So should one worth attention. While they do not appreciate your comments on this reach the quality of the classics, situation. excellent article or they serve a genuine purpose. They book. Yet how many say what needs to be said at a given I see the situation as a mixed bag point of history and they say it in a Aof weal and woe, good and bad. homilies and scripture superior way. We do have problems in this area of readings and lectures The third level is the mediocre. spiritual reading and we ought not These pieces of writing are usually to underestimate them. They can be and conferences harmless repetitions of what has of- solved, but not easily. We may begin and retreats have ten been said elsewhere and proba- with the fact of sheer volume. Cen- bly with much greater skill and pow- turies ago there was a difficulty of a we experienced with er. These ideas are prosaic and the paucity of materials available. People ideals often diluted. One who has could not read good books, because seemingly little or not experienced the best is often im- literally they were not in print. To- no lasting effect?” pressed with this mediocre material day, happily, this is not the problem. (note how young people commonly Our situation is just the opposite. rave over their last book), but he is We have so many oysters, it is diffi- and articles that are considered like the person addicted to cowboy cult to find the pearls. to be spiritual reading. On the top movies either because he has never I think we can fairly distinguish level we have the very best, A-1 experienced Shakespeare or because four levels of value among books works of outstanding excellence he is incapable of experiencing him.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 8 3/17/21 11:54 AM On the lowest level we have damaging spiritual reading. This writing distorts the spiritual life and the message of revelation. The distortions may be unwitting but they are invariably partial, myopic. They damage those who take them seriously. The volume problem is not sim- ply a question of sheer number of books available. It is a proportion problem as well. It is safe to say that hardly one percent of spiritual read- ing qualifies as A-1 (and this is true of other reading as well, but that is not our concern here). Though this excellent article or book. Yet how in our native state we are close to may appear to be an exaggerated many homilies and scripture read- the Word of God, and so the psalm- statement, it can easily be shown ings and lectures and conferences ist prays that God may open his eyes to be true. Of one hundred typical and retreats have we experienced (Ps 119:18). Saint Paul declares books that appear in a given year with seemingly little or no lasting that the worldly person simply can- (and far more than a hundred are effect? I surely am not saying that not understand the things of the published annually) five or ten may spiritual reading is utterly without Spirit (1 Cor 2:14). Even when we have a modicum of popularity at the benefit nor am I even remotely sug- have found the very best in read- end of the decade. But not more gesting that it is unimportant. But I ing it does not follow necessarily than one or two of these will still be am pointing out that in many people that it’s message is going to come widely read. By the end of the cen- the effects seem minor indeed. How through to us. tury it is not likely that even one will many profound conversions occur A fourth problem is finding com- have survived. as a result of reading this book or petent recommendations. Ought we I hesitate to assign a percentage that? to believe advertising? The question to “good books” as they were defined And this question leads to a needs no answer. Are book reviews above, but possibly a span of two or third problem, receptivity. The reliable? It depends on the review- five percent would come close to the Gospel parable of the sower makes er, for book reviews often say more reality. A similar span may approx- it clear that God’s Word is received about the reviewer than about the imate the fourth category, harmful with all sorts of receptivity ranging book. Are best seller lists an index? A spiritual reading. If we are not wildly along the spectrum from complete bit of experience answers that ques- wrong in these estimations, we are welcome to complete rejection. tion. Nor are bibliographies usually left with a vast number of medio- Supposing that the spiritual read- the answer. They often include all cre books and articles. And here we ing faithfully reflects the Gospel, sorts of mediocre entries. And in a have our main problem. How does we must conclude that it, too, will list of one hundred entries how does one survive the deluge of mediocre be received with varying degrees of the unwary know the one or two that and make it through to discover the welcome and rejection. Even aside are worth reading? best? from willed impediments to the A second problem is the ap- message there’s the question of our It seems to me that your out- parent ineffectiveness of doing capacity or incapacity to appreciate Qline of the problems supposes this thing we call spiritual reading. a given expression of it. Not every- a certain concept of what is and God’s Word transforms a person, one is capable of appreciating Bee- what is not spiritual reading. If says Scripture. One homily should thoven nor is everyone pure enough this is so, how would you describe change me for life, and if your life, to grasp and profit from St. John of this activity? for eternity as well. So should one the Cross. Scripture supposes that

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 9 3/17/21 11:54 AM It may be well to say first what is a being nourished with God’s We can put the nature of spiri- Ait is not. Spiritual reading is not Word. That is why there is compar- tual reading in another way: it is be- a study of theology, even spiritual atively so small a percentage of ex- ing transformed from “one glory to theology. Nor is it keeping up with cellent material available. During another” (2 Cor 3:18) by the Word ecclesiastical matters or with what this activity, God’s Word is to soak of God. Reading of the highest is going on in religious life. Still less in like the rain and permeate like quality does what the biblical word it is merely satisfying one’s curiosity: the dew (Deut 32:1-3). We are be- does, and this is another reason why “What does this periodical say this ing enlightened by divine light, not mediocre material does not answer month?” by men’s opinions. Spiritual read- our needs. Merely human wisdom is Spiritual reading is lectio divi- ing is a type of prayer experience in foolishness with God, as Saint Paul na—a divine reading. This classical much the same manner that Scrip- reminded the Corinthians, and me- two-word formula puts the matter ture reading is to be a dialogue be- diocre writing is to a large extent into a nutshell. Spiritual reading tween man and his Maker. merely human thinking.

Mortification(cont. from pg. 19) pist does this with the proper expla- ​Dr. Baars summarizes this ther- al culpability”(no. 2352). Pius XII nation given of all the moral aspects apy: “The essence of a healthy up- taught a similar doctrine: “From involved. One might say that for most bringing is an attitude which is in this a conclusion follows for psycho- people this is an evil. But in the case of fundamental agreement with that therapy. In the presence of material the patient, it is perhaps only a venial of God. This means that they [ed- sin it cannot remain neutral. It can, sin and the alternative is to encourage ucators] respect the child’s need for the moment, tolerate what re- the emotional problem they have. to become a free human being and mains inevitable. But it must know ​Passivity is much more import- abstain from anything that will in- that God cannot justify such an ant than activity when one is dealing terfere with that freedom, such as action. With still less reason can with this type of neurotic. The thera- undue stimulation of potentially psychotherapy counsel a patient to pist must live the same doctrine he is repressing emotions. This they can commit material sin on the ground teaching and Dr. Baars is clear: “There do only if they have a reasonable that it will be without subjective cannot be any fundamental conflict trust in the basic goodness of ev- guilt. Such a counsel would be erro- between sound moral theology and ery human being, i.e., that man has neous if this action were regarded as sound philosophical anthropology.” continued to be oriented toward the necessary for psychic easing of the ​The last directive which is a part good in spite of the imperfection of patient and thus as being part of the of this therapy is: “The pleasure you his nature caused by Original Sin. treatment. One may never counsel experience as a result of abiding by This trust implies that the educator a conscious action which would be the other directives is the most per- believes that the child will learn also a deformation and not an image of fect thing for you.” The patient has from his faults and mistakes, because divine perfection.” never related to those goods which they interfere with his finding what ​So the obvious point here is that he has repressed in an authentic way he really wants; that which is truly no one can recommend someone do with real joy. Once the positive ex- good and fulfilling of his nature.” an evil action. On the other hand, perience of these goods emerges and Footnotes: they can allow the patient to expe- he is able to address them in a ma- 1 rience feelings in regard to the thing ture way, then things begin to fall Conrad W. Baars, Psychic repressed which may lead to some into place properly. The joy of the Wholeness and Healing, New action which is a material sin. Since person becomes other centered rath- York: Alba House (1981), p. 66. 2 they cannot control this action ex- er than self centered because he can Baars, Psychic, p. 73. 3 cept by further repression, through experience the goods as they were Baars, Psychic, p. 72. 4 the emotional illness, the therapist meant to be. The essence of the cor- Baars, Psychic, p. 73. 5 may tolerate this action as concom- rect guidance for the normal and the Baars, Psychic, p. 80. 6 itant to the emerging emotion. Tol- wounded person is to be present like Baars, Psychic, p. 90. 7 eration here means one does not God. This is what parents must do Baars, Psychic, p. 93. 8 command it or forbid it. The thera- and also what God does. Baars, Psychic, p. 104.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 10 3/17/21 11:54 AM Answering the Master’s Call

Vocation Stories I Will Give You a Hundredfold By Sr. Cecilia Joseph Nguyen, CMRM

rowing up in a strong Cath- asked questions such as, “What do olic family was probably one you want to be when you grow up?” Gof the seedlings that brought I would always answer: “A .” Pe- about my desire to enter religious riod. I had no doubt that I wanted to life. I loved reading about the lives of become a sister, especially a Domin- the saints, and I’ve always admired ican sister. I was so set on becoming their courage and love for God that one, to the point that I dressed up impelled them to give everything up as one of their aspirants/postulants to follow Him. My first exposure to during 6th grade for dress-up week the religious life was my encounter at school! And when someone asked with the Dominican Sisters of Mary, me what I was dressed as, I would Immaculate Province from Houston, tell them, “A Vietnamese Domini- Texas, at Marian Days one year, can nun.” There was nothing more and relatives would drive from our the annual gathering of Vietnam- that I wanted than to become a sis- home in Minnesota to visit the Con- ese Catholics. I was very attracted ter; they all looked so happy and gregation of the Mother of the Re- to their habit; all the Sisters looked peaceful in their vocation, and I deemer in Carthage, Missouri, every so holy with their flowing white gar- wanted to have a share in that joy Thanksgiving to have a nice week- ment, black veil, and a rosary at- and peace as well. end off from our busy schedules, to tached to their side! I received their However, when I entered my spend time with one another and monthly magazine, two of their CDs, teenage years, things changed quite see the Christmas lights display. It a small Rosary, and I was hooked a bit for me. I met new people and just so happened that in 2007, we ever since. was exposed to different ideas and met the Sisters of Mary, Queen of In school, whenever we were thoughts, and I decided that becom- Mercy, who were also visiting the ing a sister wasn’t so “cool” anymore. community to view the Christmas I suppose I was just going through lights display. Because a majority of the teenage phase of “discovering my cousins there were girls, one of oneself,” and I gave myself different the sisters saw it as an opportunity to career options for my future. Howev- “cast the net” and “catch some fish.” er, I didn’t feel satisfied with what I We talked, exchanged emails, took chose; I had a feeling that there was pictures, and went our ways. After something better out there for me, that, I didn’t think much about our but I didn’t know what it was. When encounter. a thing like that happens, God al- Little did I know, one of the sis- ways makes His way in and arranges ters had been keeping in touch with things a little bit. my cousin, and she received informa- As is our tradition, my family tion about the community and Pius

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 11 3/17/21 11:54 AM X High School in Lincoln, Nebras- from how society presented it, but I ka. My cousin told me that I should was still unsure if this was the path come there with her and see what it for me. The next thing I know, the was like. At first, I was hesitant about second year of the aspirancy came this idea; I really didn’t want to have along for me as a senior at Pius X anything to do with religious life due High School, and this time my cous- to my personal attachments at home in was no longer with me. It was also and school in Minnesota; I wasn’t during this time that I began to seri- ready to leave everything behind and ously consider the religious life. Was start a whole new life. Nonetheless, this what I wanted for my life? Was I decided to come with her and visit this what God wanted for my life? I the convent, just to see how it was. knew it required many sacrifices, such So during spring break, both of our as leaving behind family and friends, but was I willing to follow what I’d dreamed of in my childhood? I strug- gled in my decision, to remain with the Sisters, even to the point of thinking about leaving the community to join the Vietnamese my mind: “Jesus said: ‘Amen, I say Dominican Sisters after I finished to you, there is no one who has giv- college, just to consider religious life en up house or brothers or sisters or again at a later time. Despite that rea- mother or father or children or lands son, I could not confirm that possibil- for My sake and for the sake of the ity. After much serious thought and Gospel who will not receive a hun- families drove to Lincoln and stayed reflection, Christ finally opened my dred times more now in this present with the sisters for a weekend. When heart that had been closed for so long age... and eternal life in the age to my cousin and I talked, we both to His call. I can still remember the come’” (Mk 10:29-30). His loving found it to be peaceful there. How- night when He asked me in my heart invitation was so strong and so clear. ever, I still didn’t know if I wanted if I would leave everything and follow It assured me that if I gave my all to to join the Sisters or not. If I went, Him. A verse from Scripture came to Him, nothing will go unheeded. The this meant that I would have to leave sacrifices I make in following Him will many new opportunities behind be repaid a hundredfold in this life (which suddenly came up during and in the next. He promises so much this time of discernment). It was a more than what the world could offer. difficult decision for me, to decide What would the things of this life be whether I should go or not. It was a worth compared to the things in the constant struggle for me from that next life? Through the Lord’s grace, time on. When I discussed this inner I finally surrendered my all to Him, battle with my aunt, she told me that giving Him my whole and heartfelt I should at least give religious life a “Yes.” try; if it didn’t work out for me, then I made my perpetual profession at least I would have a good founda- of vows on June 8, 2019 becoming a tion for my life. After much thought, Bride of Christ forever. Jesus, being I saw that it was a reasonable idea, the faithful Husband He is, always so I made my decision to enter the keeps His promises, and I can testify community with my cousin in 2008. that His promise of a hundredfold is During my first year in the as- being fulfilled as I live my religious pirancy, I learned many new things For more information visit: life day to day. The Lord is never about religious life that were different QueenofMercySisters.org outdone in His generosity!

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 12 3/17/21 11:54 AM Religious Pioneers in America Trailblazers of Faith

Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos, C.Ss.R. —Gentle Pastor & Friendly Guide— By Rev. Richard Boever, C.Ss.R.

rancis Xavier Seelos was born alone, all hope and all spirit for such in Fuessen, Bavaria on January a resolution would be wanting. …In F11, 1819. His father, Mang, all humility, let us employ the help of was a weaver of cloth and his moth- God and beg for His graces that all er, Frances, kept the household may go well.” Francis Xavier Seelos together. Francis was the sixth of entered the Redemptorist twelve children born to the family. at St. James Parish in and As was the custom, immediately af- professed his vows a year and a day ter birth, Francis Xavier was brought later. After the remaining theolog- to the parish church to be baptized. ical studies were completed, he was Seelos grew up in a very Catholic ordained a priest on December 22, environment. Not only was the fam- 1844. ily pious but, in fact, the town of Seelos would serve in seven par- Fuessen itself breathed the Faith. Of ishes throughout the United States the 1,547 residents of the town, all during his time in ministry. The Re- but 20 were Catholic. demptorists found that in order to Francis began his schooling in erally did not know English well. The have a community in many cities, his hometown, went on the Hol- faith was their anchor, rooting them bishops expected them also to accept bein-Gymnasium at Augsburg and in the new land. Seelos had written ministering in a specific parish. The finally to the Royal Ludwig Maxi- to the superior of the American Re- rectories in these parishes, however, milian University in . It was demptorists asking for permission were much larger than what would during these years at the university to join their community. When he be required for just the parish priests. that Francis finally resolved to enter received an affirmative letter in re- The charism of the religious commu- the seminary to prepare for ordina- turn, he immediately began to pre- nity was much broader than parish tion to the priesthood. When he told pare for the journey to the United ministry and members of a house his family of his decision to seek or- States. His passport described him as included confreres who traveled to dination, they were delighted; when being “6 feet tall, slim, hair and eyes far reaching German-speaking com- he told them that, like his namesake, brown, nose thick, mouth large, chin munities and to men who preached he intended to minister overseas, rounded.” He was 24 years old. He parish missions. they were heartbroken. With the had written to his cousin: “You have Father Seelos was sent to St. Phi- wave of immigration, the Church heard with very great surprise that lomena’s Parish in shortly in the United States was greatly Providence has called me to a foreign after his ordination. St. John Neu- stressed, especially to serve the Ger- country. I follow this vocation will- mann, C.Ss.R. was the pastor. The man-speaking immigrants who gen- ingly. … If I relied on my own powers bishop, Michael O’Connor, referred

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 13 3/17/21 11:54 AM to the two of them, along with Fr. case. He reprimanded them for Joseph Mueller, as “my three saints overreaching their authority. at St. .” Blessed Seelos As was his practice in all of and St. shared his assignments, Seelos spent the same room in the rectory many hours in the confession- with only a curtain separating the al. There were always long lines sleeping area for a bit of privacy. waiting to speak with him. Af- These served Ger- ter hours hearing confessions man-speaking communities as far one Saturday afternoon, Bless- west as Steubenville, Ohio, and as ed Seelos stretched when he far east as Wheeling, West - came out of the confessionals ia. Seelos would later write to Neu- and ruptured a blood vessel in mann’s sister in Bohemia about his throat causing him to spit the days he and John Neumann blood. This was noticed by one ministered together: “I was his subject, for members of the Redemptorist of the confreres and reported to the but far more than that, his child and Congregation throughout the world. provincial. Eventually, the state of his his son … He introduced me to the From the United States, the provin- health brought him to his bed, and he active life. He directed me as a spiri- cial and one elected member would was relieved of his charge as rector tual guide and confessor. He cared for serve as representatives for America. and superior of St. Alphonsus. After all my needs of body and soul, and he Seelos sincerely wished to be elected a month, he received orders to move loved me as his own son.” After two because the trip would have enabled to Cumberland, , and serve years together, Neumann was trans- him to visit his family while in Europe. there as pastor, rector and of ferred out of Pittsburgh and was soon He was not elected but remained in the professed students who were pre- appointed superior of all the Redemp- Baltimore to serve in the position of paring for priestly ordination. torists in North America. This was sig- Consulter, which made him the sec- While in Cumberland, Francis nificant for Seelos because, after just ond highest authority of the Ameri- Seelos heard the rumor that Bishop three years as a professed member of can province. This position present- Michael O’Connor of Pittsburgh was the community, Neumann appointed ed him with one of the most difficult resigning his position for health rea- him novice master. The saintly supe- situations he would have to face. The sons and had recommended Seelos as rior must have known Francis Xavi- vicar-provincial suffered a mental the first candidate on his list to suc- er’s ability and holiness and judged breakdown and it fell to Francis to ceed him. Seelos begged everyone he him the right person to instill in the deal with the situation. He found it knew to pray that this not happen. aspiring new members the spirit of the necessary to place the priest in Mount Seelos never became bishop, and he Congregation as it was lived in the Hope Asylum, an institution run by threw a day-long party for the stu- United States. It was during this as- the Sisters of Charity for the mentally dents to celebrate that fact. signment that Seelos officially became deranged. After several weeks of wor- The pastoral heart of Seelos was a citizen of the United States. ry about the man, Francis returned to with his students. The affection he After nine years in Pittsburgh, Annapolis so he could visit with him had for the men in formation was re- Father Seelos was transferred as pas- at Mount Hope. The confrere seemed turned by them. One of the students tor and local superior to St. Alphon- so much better that Seelos brought wrote: “His first appearance made an sus Parish in Baltimore. As in other him back with him to the community unforgettable impression on me. His Redemptorist parishes, the men also in Baltimore. It soon became apparent whole external appearance, the ex- served the German-speaking com- he was not better and had to be read- pression on his face, had something munities surrounding St. Alphonsus mitted to the institution. This was all noble and venerable and at the same Parish, many of which would later very difficult for the tender heart of time, so gentle and attractive that become independent parishes with Seelos, but he was also quite upset to you felt you were in the presence of their own pastor. hear that some of the confreres had a saint.” One of the biographers of Bl. While Seelos was in Baltimore, a written to Rome, accusing him of im- Francis Seelos entitled his book, The general chapter was called in Rome prudence in the way he handled this Cheerful Ascetic, and these qualities

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 14 3/17/21 11:54 AM were most noticed by the faithful. tenure at St. Mary’s but gave himself Father Seelos, as pastor, was often to the preaching of parish missions. enough asked to pray for his sick pa- He preached in parishes through- rishioners. In many cases, recovery out the East and Midwest. Mission was reported, but his fame was found preaching, he confided to his sister in not in being a miracle worker but a letter home, was actually the apos- rather as a gentle and friendly guide tolate most pleasing to him. to those who encountered him. He And then came his final assign- advised those he directed to enter the ment, . He was appoint- finer school. “I mean the school of ed prefect of St. Mary’s Assumption, suffering, the school of the cross, the the parish established for the Ger- school of following Christ. O that we man-speaking. Father Seelos min- would sanctify ourselves by our daily istered to the sick and dying, most crosses, by the cross of our state in of whom were suffering from Yellow life, in the resigned, joyful embracing Fever. One day, it was noticed that of this dear cross!” Seelos himself became jaundiced. He The student house of studies was had succumbed to the fever, and it moved from Cumberland to Annap- would claim his life on , olis, Maryland, in 1862 and Francis 1867. Seelos went with them. The Civil The faithful of New Orleans War was being fought at the time knew they had been in the presence and Seelos was greatly concerned of a holy man and began to invoke his about the military draft. “Thirty-six his students; nonetheless, he assured intercession in their needs. His letters of our students, besides myself, are him, all would be okay, Indeed, none were collected, and testimonies were in danger of being selected for mil- of the men were drafted. taken in the conviction that his cause itary service. For this reason, I and The Prefect was reported to for would develop. To another Father went to Father Abra- Rome by a confrere as not being strict this day, pilgrims come to the ham.” Seelos reported that President enough. Without consultation with of Blessed Seelos staffed by the Re- Lincoln was very gracious but that the authorities in the United States, demptorist community seeking his he told him that he could not issue a Seelos was replaced with a priest intercession and are confident in the special exemption from the draft for from Holland. Francis continued his power of his prayers joined to theirs. National Shrine Continues Pastoral Ministry of Blessed Seelos he National Shrine of Blessed display of Seelos’ personal belong- TFrancis Xavier Seelos is located ings. There is also a life-sized bronze in St. Mary’s Assumption Church, statue of Blessed Seelos and his orig- in New Orleans, . In inal cast-iron casket from 1867. The 2000, the beati- centerpiece of the Shrine is a sacred fied Father Seelos, making him one reliquary, which now houses the re- step away from sainthood. Many mains of Father Seelos. miracles are attributed to his in- St. Mary’s Assumption Church, tercession both during his life and where Father Seelos served as pastor, is and are some of the finest pieces of after his death. a still active parish. It is considered the 19th-century European polychrome The Shrine contains many re- most ornate of New Orleans church- sacred art in this country. Liturgical ligious paintings, tapestries and es, for its distinctive European ba- music is still played on the 1891 Ger- photographs that depict Father roque flavor. The hand-carved wood- man organ. The confessionals are Seelos and his life as a missionary. en statues of saints that make up the the same rooms that Father Seelos In addition to the relics, there is a high altar are originals from Germany used more than 100 years ago.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 15 3/17/21 11:54 AM Contemplating God’s Patience & Imploring the Trusting Patience of Simeon & Anna The following is Pope Francis’ homily given at the Mass commemorating the 25th annual World Day of Consecrated Life celebrated on February 2, 2021, at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. imeon, so Saint Luke tells us, “looked forward to The patience of Simeon is thus a mirror of God’s own the consolation of Israel” (Lk 2:25). Going up to patience. From prayer and the history of his people, Simeon Sthe Temple as Mary and Joseph were bringing Je- had learned that God is indeed patient. By that patience, sus there, he took the Messiah into his arms. The one Saint Paul tells us, He “leads us to repentance” (Rom 2:4). who recognized in that Child the light that came to I like to think of Romano Guardini, who once observed shine on the Gentiles was an elderly man who had pa- that patience is God’s way of responding to our weakness tiently awaited the fulfillment of the Lord’s promises. and giving us the time we need to change (cf. Glauben- The patience of Simeon. Let us take a closer look at serkenntnis, Würzburg, 1949, 28). More than anyone else, that old man’s patience. For his entire life, he had been the Messiah, Jesus, whom Simeon held in his arms, shows waiting, exercising the patience of the heart. In his prayer, us the patience of God, the Merciful Father who keeps Simeon had learned that God does not come in extraor- calling us, even to our final hour. God, who does not de- dinary events, but works amid the apparent monotony of mand perfection but heartfelt enthusiasm, who opens up our daily life, in the frequently dull rhythm of our activ- new possibilities when all seems lost, who wants to open ities, in the little things that, working with tenacity and a breach in our hardened hearts, who lets the good seed humility, we achieve in our efforts to do His will. By pa- grow without uprooting the weeds. This is the reason for tiently persevering, Simeon did not grow weary with the our hope: that God never tires of waiting for us. When we passage of time. He was now an old man, yet the flame turn away, He comes looking for us; when we fall, He lifts still burned brightly in his heart. In his long life, there had us to our feet; when we return to Him after losing our way, surely been times when he had been hurt, disappointed, He waits for us with open arms. His love is not weighed in yet he did not lose hope. He trusted in the promise, and the balance of our human calculations, but unstintingly did not let himself be consumed by regret for times past gives us the courage to start anew. This teaches us resil- or by the sense of despondency that can come as we ap- ience, the courage always to start again, each day. Always proach the twilight of our lives. His hope and expectation to start over after our falls. God is patient. found expression in the daily patience of a man who, de- Let us look to our patience. Let us look to the patience spite everything, remained watchful, until at last “his eyes of God and the patience of Simeon as we consider our saw the salvation” that had been promised (cf. Lk 2:30). own lives of consecration. We can ask ourselves what pa- I ask myself: where did Simeon learn such patience? tience really involves. Certainly it is not simply about tol- It was the born of prayer and the history of his people, erating difficulties or showing grim determination in the which had always seen in the Lord “a God merciful and face of hardship. Patience is not a sign of weakness, but gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love the strength of spirit that enables us to “carry the burden,” and fidelity” (Ex 34:6). He recognized the Father who, to endure, to bear the weight of personal and community even in the face of rejection and infidelity, never gives problems, to accept others as different from ourselves, to up, but remains “patient for many years” (cf. Neh 9:30), persevere in goodness when all seems lost, and to keep ad- constantly holding out the possibility of conversion. vancing even when overcome by fatigue and listlessness.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 16 3/17/21 11:54 AM Let me point to three “settings” in which patience be soloists but to be part of a choir that can sometimes can become concrete. miss a note or two, but must always try to sing in unison. The first is our personal life. There was a time when Finally, a third setting is our relationship with the we responded to the Lord’s call, and with enthusiasm and world. Simeon and Anna cherished the hope proclaimed generosity offered our lives to Him. Along the way, to- by the prophets, even though it is slow to be fulfilled and gether with consolations we have had our share of disap- grows silently amid the infidelities and ruins of our world. pointments and frustrations. At times, our hard work fails They did not complain about how wrong things are, but to achieve the desired results, the seeds we sow seem not patiently looked for the light shining in the darkness of to bear sufficient fruit, the ardor of our prayer cools and history. To look for the light shining in the darkness of we are not always immune to spiritual aridity. In our lives history; to look for the light shining in the darkness of our as consecrated men and women, it can happen that hope own communities. We too need that kind of patience, so slowly fades as a result of unmet expectations. We have as not to fall into the trap of complaining. Some peo- to be patient with ourselves and await in ple are masters of complaining, doctors hope God’s own times and places, for He of complaining, they are very good at remains ever faithful to His promises. This complaining! No, complaining impris- is the foundation stone: He is true to His ons us: “the world no longer listens to promises. Remembering this can help us “Only those crucified us”—how often do we hear that—or retrace our steps and revive our dreams, “we have no more vocations, so we have rather than yielding to interior sadness by love, as Jesus was to close the house,” or “these are not and discouragement. Brothers and sisters, easy times”­ “ah, don’t tell me!....” And in us consecrated men and women, inte- on the Cross, are able so the duet of complaints begins. It can rior sadness is a worm, a worm that eats to help the crucified of happen that even as God patiently tills us from within. Flee from interior sadness! the soil of history and our own hearts, A second setting in which patience history with effective we show ourselves impatient and want can become concrete is community life. words and actions.... to judge everything immediately: now or We all know that human relationships never, now, now, now. In this way, we are not always serene, especially when Concrete actions are lose that “small” but most beautiful of they involve sharing a project of life or needed to make us virtues: hope. I have seen many conse- apostolic activity. There are times when crated men and women who lose hope, conflicts arise and no immediate solu- experience this love simply through impatience. tion can be expected, nor should hasty in our own love.” Patience helps us to be merciful in judgments be made. Time is required to the way we view ourselves, our commu- step back, to preserve peace and to wait nities and our world. In our own lives, for a better time to resolve situations in charity and in do we welcome the patience of the Holy Spirit? In our truth. Let us not allow ourselves to be flustered by tem- communities, do we bear with one another and radiate pests. In the Breviary, for tomorrow’s Office of Read- the joy of fraternal life? In the world, do we patiently of- ings, there is a fine passage on spiritual discernment by fer our service, or issue harsh judgments? These are real Diodochus of Photice. He says: “A tranquil sea allows challenges for our consecrated life: we cannot remain the fisherman to gaze right to its depths. No fish can stuck in nostalgia for the past or simply keep repeating hide there and escape his sight. The stormy sea, howev- the same old things or everyday complaints. We need er, becomes murky when it is agitated by the winds.” We patience and courage in order to keep advancing, ex- will never be able to discern well, to see the truth, if our ploring new paths, and responding to the promptings of hearts are agitated and impatient. Never. Our commu- the Holy Spirit. And to do so with humility and simplic- nities need this kind of reciprocal patience: the ability ity, without great propaganda or publicity. to support, that is, to bear on our own shoulders, the Let us contemplate God’s patience and implore the life of one of our brothers or sisters, including his or her trusting patience of Simeon and of Anna. In this way, weaknesses and failings, all of them. Let us keep in mind may our eyes, too, see the light of salvation and bring that the Lord does not call us to be soloists—we know that light to the whole world, just as these two elderly there are many in the Church—no, we are not called to individuals did in their words of praise.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 17 3/17/21 11:54 AM Doctor of the Heart, Healer of the Soul The Spiritual Counsel of Dr. Conrad W. Baars

Mortification Therapy By Rev. Brian Mullady, O.P.

r. Conrad Baars pioneered a ​The obsessive-compulsive neu- an occasion of sin.” This mistaken new approach to therapy for rotic is basically very intelligent impression can be given in a variety Dobsessive-compulsive neu- and naturally capable of full inte- of ways. It can be the result of posi- rotics called mortification therapy. gration. But he suffers from bad tive teaching or the omission of that This therapy has sometimes been moral education and the fact that teaching or even of the manner in very controversial with confessors he has formed his passions based which sexual matters or other mat- and moral theologians. It would on this education. “These mistaken ters like anger are discussed. therefore seem useful to devote a interpretations are most likely to be ​Two things are therefore the whole article to it. First, it needs to formed when educators—parents, cornerstones of healing of this con- be stated that spiritual authors like dition. The first is to explain the Fr. Jordan Aumann, O.P., found inherent goodness of the feelings the ideas in the books of Dr. Baars themselves involved. This does not to be in fundamental agreement mean moral goodness, but natu- with Catholic doctrine. As his ideas “Dr. Baars is very clear ral goodness. The Catechism of the bear a superficial resemblance to that true healing Catholic Church explains this well: moral permissiveness, clarification “In themselves passions are nei- is in order. cannot occur for ther good nor evil. They are moral- ​The problem is especially ur- ly qualified to the extent that they [obsessive-compulsive gent as today’s climate is loaded effectively engage reason and will” with self-help techniques which are neurotics] until both (no. 1767). The feelings of pleasure permissive and misleading. Some or even the passion of love is a nat- people think to cure problems with moral theologians and ural response to perceived good. Dr. sexual integration or assertion, all psychiatrists cooperate Baars gives the example of a rose: one needs to do is to be ordered to “[…] if I love a rose it is not because experience these things even if the together in the I arouse this emotion or will it, but actions are sinful. Some moral theo- process of guidance because the qualities of the rose— logians after Vatican II proposed shape, color, fragrance—stimulate new moral norms which basically based on authentic my feeling of liking.” In the case of permitted almost any actions. Dr. Catholic moral teaching.” sexuality, though one might be able Baars is very clear that true healing to write a treatise on the goods in- cannot occur for this problem until volved in the conjugal act, this does both moral theologians and psychia- teachers, relatives, religious instruc- not arrive at the feelings. Pope John trists cooperate together in the pro- tors­—convey to the young person, Paul II’s Theology of the Body has cess of guidance based on authentic directly or indirectly, that sex is done much to encourage this proper Catholic moral teaching. actually potentially harmful, if not understanding.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 18 3/17/21 11:54 AM ​Dr. Baars continues: “to enable the patient to develop this feeling knowledge, the therapist must also help him to rid himself of the cause of this repressing fear or energy, i.e. his usefulness judgment that sex is harmful.” This involves giving the patient that advice that he should change his judgment from I “must not” experience pleasure in sexual matters, to I “may” experience plea- sure in these matters. Or from you “must not” feel anger, to you “may” feel anger. The point must be stressed that such advice is not given to peo- ple who are well formed concerning these feelings. This is only given to obsessive-compulsive neurotics. The reason is that the neurotic will tell you he can control his behavior and feelings in this regard, but he does not do so from a choice creating a virtue. He only does this by using one emotion to control another. ​This is called mortification therapy. This seems strange because Catholics have been used to apply- ing the term to things like pleasure at sexuality and anger. If mortifi- cation is sometimes indicated for pleasures which lead to sin, it is also indicated for those passions like fear sor may have to tolerate these acts takes time and patience and the pre- and energy which are out of control for a time while the repressed feel- sumption morally would be that the in the neurotic. ings are emerging from being buried person has no moral determination ​The usual difficulty which oc- alive. It goes without saying that it over these particular actions while curs for moralists and confessors is would be against justice to involve reintegration is happening. that when these repressed feelings another in these acts. Normally, ob- ​Two magisterial sources may be begin to emerge they may often sessive compulsive neurotics have a helpful here to quiet the fear of the lead to morally evil acts like self- strong sense of justice, so if this is confessor. First, the Catechism of the abuse. The psychiatrist is not to explained to them, they understand. Catholic Church. “To form an equi- recommend these acts since he is ​Dr. Baars maintains that only table judgment about the subject’s the voice of reason in the patient’s for the time when these feelings are moral responsibility and to guide life. This would be reason recom- emerging, the therapist must say: 1) pastoral action, one must take into mending something intrinsically you may do everything and 2) for account the affective immaturity, evil which is impossible. The same you there are no rules. Objectively of force of acquired habit, conditions would be true for anger. Neverthe- course there are rules. But the person of anxiety, or other psychological or less, since the patient cannot con- interprets the whole idea of rule in a social factors that can lessen, if not trol these acts except by a repressive wrong sense. They must be allowed even reduce to a minimum, mor- means, the psychiatrist and confes- to recover the correct sense. This (Continued on page 10)

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 19 3/17/21 11:54 AM InnerView

With Mother Marie Julie Saegaert, S.C.M.C. Superior General of the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church

Mother, you knew from an early ment. She was wearing the tradi- well as they placed their lives at the age that you wanted to be a sister. tional habit which they wore at the service of the Gospel. How did you know that God was time, and I asked her, “Why are you calling you to be a bride of Christ? dressed like that?” She leaned down What ministries have you been in- Well, it’s a bit long, but I love to me and said softly, “Because I’m volved with in the community? to tell this story. My father was a the Bride of Jesus.” I’ve been so fortunate. Educa- musician and every Saturday after- At that moment of revelation, tion was my first apostolate, teach- noon he and his band would play at at the age of four, I knew I would ing junior high through college lev- wedding receptions. (In those days one day be a bride of Jesus, so I el. After obtaining certification in there were no DJs.). could be beautiful. I think my mo- healthcare administration, medical Beginning when I was three, tivation was far from perfect, but ethics and a degree in Pastoral Min- every Sunday morning he and I the fire of that dream never died. istry with the Dying and their Loved would have breakfast together while When the Bishop placed this gold Ones, I had the privilege of serving everyone else was asleep. Week af- ring on my finger at my profession in long term care and hospitals for ter week I would ask the same ques- and said, Sister I betroth you to Jesus twenty years. God also called me to tion; “Daddy, was the bride beauti- Christ, I could never have imagined bereavement work and consulting ful?” And week after week he would the beauty that would fill my heart on the ethics of end-of-life issues. answer, “Baby, all brides are beauti- in the days to come. Currently I am profoundly moved in ful.” In those days if you were mar- my engagement with other people ried on Saturday your picture was What attracted you to the charism through spiritual accompaniment. in the paper on Sunday. So I would of the Sisters of Charity of Our Above all, I am deeply grateful for drag the paper to him and he would Lady, Mother of the Church? my spiritual daughters in the Sisters open it to the society page and show To tell you the truth, I knew of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of me. Sometimes, I didn’t think she nothing about charism when I first the Church. was very pretty, and would tell him sought admission to the novitiate at so. He would always reply, ‘Baby, the age of 16. I asked to enter the How did you come to be involved all brides are beautiful.’ Somehow, Sisters of Charity because I attend- with the IRL and why is the IRL’s after many months, I came to un- ed their boarding school at the time mission important to the Church? derstand that if someone loved you and was moved by their prayer life When I was in ministry in enough to ask you to be his bride, and the realization that their entire Wisconsin I attended the Nation- that made you beautiful. lives were spent for others. I only al Meetings of the IRL for several Can you imagine that short- learned about the charism of serving years and was invited by Fr. Thom- ly thereafter I was sitting on the the people of God in a spirit of heartfelt as Nelson and Mike Wick to serve backseat floor of my mother’s car, simplicity after I entered and studied on the Board of Directors. Working looking up into the serene face of a the story of our founder, Bishop with Bishop Dolan, Bishop Vasa Religious Sister of Mercy whom my John Zwysen, and came to love his and Bishop Hying along with the in- mother was driving to an appoint- spirit that our Sisters exemplified so spired and inspiring staff of the In-

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 20 3/17/21 11:54 AM stitute, I came in contact with many of the beautiful lay people who sup- port the consecrated life. It’s the la- ity who uplift us in our apostolates, and we draw from their prayers and example in the sometimes daunting challenges as we serve the Church in contemporary society. The Com- munion of Saints, especially the Church militant, needs the support of every person who is fired with the love of God, and the dynamic be- tween the laity and priests and reli- gious in the Institute on Religious Life provides a powerful testimony to the wonder of the Mystical Body. experience. I have to say that I’m ibly lovely number of young women The IRL makes that happen in holy so grateful to my community for who find their way to our novitiate and amazing ways. embracing an emerging community are led by a blessed Providence to who asked to spend their novitiate respond to the invitation they hear How have the sisters benefited from with us in order to learn the essen- in their hearts. We never cease to the IRL programs and events? tial elements of consecrated life be humbled by the women God I can speak personally for my while being immersed in the dis- sends us, and we pray to be worthy Sisters. Some, while attending IRL cernment process. Religious strive of them. Each has her own story, functions as lay persons, especially to be at the heart of the Church, but I can only say that they, like so the National Meeting, have found so we can’t be insulated and con- many young people today, are filled the impetus to respond to the Lord’s cerned only about ourselves and with the desire to give everything invitation to follow Him in the con- our exterior apostolate. Members of to the One who has set their hearts secrated life, We have sent sisters the consecrated life have been rich- on fire. That sounds simple, but it’s to the Vita Consecrata Institute and ly blessed through the Church— profound. they bring back to the community the Universal Church and the indi- a richness that inspires their own vidual members of the Church who You will be receiving the IRL Pro vocation and nourishes us who live walk the road of holiness every day. Fidelitate et Virtute Award at with them. The IRL interactive It seems to me that we are invited the April 2021 National Meet- website is very helpful to us as we to do all we can to support those ing. What does this award mean navigate the responsibilities of our who are gifted by the Holy Spir- to you? Can we add that we are so various apostolates. it with the call to establish a new pleased to be able to bestow it on community, whenever that is possi- you! Mother, you brought an emerging ble. For us, it was possible, and they Believe me, I am standing on the community to do their novitiate have been an immense blessing for shoulders of the great men and wom- with you, you have served on the us. en who have received this award be- CMSWR Board and also were on fore me, and the view is breathtak- the IRL Board for 14 years. You You have a steady number of young ing! This is an honor that I accept have a very maternal heart for the women entering your community. in the name of every person who has Church as a whole. Why is this co- What is attracting them to religious ever touched my heart with the love operation and fellowship so impor- life? of Jesus. It belongs to all who believe tant to you? A small, but steady and incred- in the splendour of religious life, and My community separated from I thank the Institute on Religious For more information visit: a larger congregation in 1970 and Life for bestowing it on me. Praised SistersofCharity.org it was both a painful and moving be Jesus Christ.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 21 3/17/21 11:54 AM IRL News & Notes Transalpine Redemptorists to Build Monastery in Montana n October 7, 2020, the Feast of demptorists, purchased 200 acres in OOur Lady of the Holy Rosary, Forsyth, Montana, with the inten- the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer tion of building a future monastery (or F.SS.R.: Filii Sanctissimi Redemp- there for their American foundation. toris) were granted a canonical in- In 2008, the Transalpine Re- vitation to establish a monastery in demptorists were received into full the Diocese of Great Falls–Billings, communion with the Church and Montana. Most Rev. Michael Warfel erected as a Clerical Institute of Di- and Father Michael Mary signed the ocesan Right in 2012 in the Diocese papers bringing this flowering of reli- of Aberdeen in Scotland, after the gious life from Scotland to America. 2007 Motu proprio of Pope Benedict say in Scotland and the other in the Two months later, the community, XVI. The Order has two monaster- Diocese of Christchurch, New Zea- also known as the Transalpine Re- ies: one on the island of Papa Stron- land (PapaStronsay.com). Carmelite Monastery in San Rafael Officially Closes n March 1, 2021, the Carmelite We pray for the people of Marin OMonastery of the Mother of God County who are losing their beloved in San Rafael, California, officially sisters, and we pray that the sisters closed its doors after 55 years in Marin will be blessed in and be a blessing to County. The four remaining nuns their new communities. were informed in May after a decree of closure was issued by the Vatican’s Congregation for Institutes of Conse- Father Pacwa Receives His 2020 IRL Award Virtually crated Life. The sisters range in age from 59- 98, the oldest being Mother Dolores Sullivan, OCD, 98, one of the found- ing sisters of the monastery, found- ed from the Carmelite monastery in Carmel, California, It is a very diffi- cult and sad time for them and for the community who have loved and sup- ported them, but when you have so few sisters, said Sr. Anna Marie Vanni, the last Prioress, “you really have to look at your vitality.” Two of the nuns will be received into the Carmel of Mary Monastery in The long-awaited opportunity to present the 2020 Pro Fidelitate et Vir- Wahpeton, North Dakota, and the re- tute Award to Fr. Mitch Pacwa, S.J., finally occurred on January 27, 2021, maining two sisters will be welcomed via Skype on EWTN Live. We were delighted to make the presentation and Father Mitch was a most gracious recipient. You can view the award into the Carmelite Monastery of St. presentation on YouTube. Therese in Clinton Township, MI.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 22 3/17/21 11:54 AM Marian Sisters of Santa Rosa Acquire Ursuline Property n January 2021, the IUrsuline Sisters, who have served in the Diocese of Santa Rosa in California for more than 130 years, announced the sale of their convent property to the Marian Sisters of Santa Rosa. After careful, sometimes painful discernment, the Ursuline Sisters determined that they were no longer able to carry on their min- istries from this lo- cation. Three years ago, the property and buildings suffered severe damage a refectory. Located in Santa Rosa, allowing us the room to grow, as from a wildfire. It took the it is 10 minutes from the cathedral, many women are answering God’s three years to repair the damage. close to the chancery and close to call to religious life and wishing to The Marian Sisters original- the elementary schools and high join us. We ask for your prayers in ly lived in the bishop’s former resi- school where they serve. this transition, so that we—through dence, but for the last four years, “It has been an honor to work the intercession of Our Lady, St. Jo- they have resided in a single-level with the Ursuline Sisters through seph, and St. Angela Merici—may apartment convent within walking this transition,” say the Marian Sis- give Our Lord a place where He is distance of the cathedral parish. But ters. “The Ursuline’s have given so loved and served above all else.” it can only accommodate 20, and much to the community of Santa Their new address: Mater Dei they anticipate that they soon will Rosa, and we pray that our religious Convent, 400 Angela Drive, Santa run out of space. The Ursuline con- family may be able to do the same. Rosa, CA 95403. vent is located on 45 acres and has The acquisition of the property is a For more information, visit their 37 cells, a large chapel, offices and big step in deepening our roots and website: MarianSisters.com. World-Renowned Expert on Divine Mercy Passes Away n February 11, 2021, Rev. Sera- Fidelitate et Virtute Award upon him for Ophim Michalenko, M.I.C., died his faithful witness to the priestly and at the age of 90 from an illness related consecrated life, and his unwavering to COVID-19. Father Seraphim, the trust in the Merciful love of God. world-renowned expert on the life and Father Seraphim wrote: “May Our spirituality of St. Maria Faustina Kow- Lord’s declaration: ‘Mankind will not alska, smuggled photographic images experience security so long as it does of the pages of Saint Faustina’s diary not turn with trust to the Fount of out of Communist-occupied Poland in Mercy’ (Diary: 300, 699), spur us on to the 1970s and later documented her make His Divine Mercy message and and canonization mira- devotion an integral factor in our Chris- cles. In 2016, the IRL bestowed its Pro tian lives.”

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 23 3/17/21 11:54 AM New Biography on St. Norbert Published for Jubilee Year 900th Jubilee Year Edition of The ALife of Saint Norbert, a transla- tion of the ancient “Vita Norberti B,” honors Saint Norbert and his first fol- lowers during this ninth centenary of the establishment of the Norbertine Order on Christmas Day 1121, at Prémontré, France. “Vita B” was written by those who knew Norbert during his lifetime, and this translation is illustrated with en- gravings from a 17th century biogra- phy of the saint. The translator was Rev. Theodore J. Antry, O.Praem., and the Forward was written by Jos Wouters, O.Praem., Abbot General of the Norbertine Order. Visit shop.norbertinesisters.org. to purchase a copy.

2021 VCI Summer Courses Scheduled The 2021 Vita Consecrata Institute summer session will take place June 28–July 23, 2021, on the campus of Christendom College in Front Royal, Virginia. We certainly hope that the COVID-19 restrictions will be eased enough by then to have a fruitful time of instruction, fellowship and prayer together. The following is the planned schedule.

Session I: June 28–July 9, 2021 • CONL 621—History of the Consecrated Life —Rev. Thomas Nelson, O.Praem. • SPIR 634—Virtues and the Spiritual Life —Rev. Brian Mullady, O.P. • SPIR 805—The Spirituality of Mary and Joseph —Rev. Boniface Hicks, O.S.B. & Msgr. Arthur Calkins

Session II: July 12–July 23, 2021 • CONL 623—Scriptural Foundations of the Consecrated Life —Rev Gregory Dick, O.Praem. • CONL 625—Vatican II and the Consecrated Life —Rev. Thomas Nelson, O.Praem. • SPIR 803—Heart Speaks to Heart —Rev. Alphonsus Hermes, O.Praem.

For more information, please call 703-658-4304 or visit Christendom.edu/vci

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 24 3/17/21 11:54 AM 2021 IRL National Meeting Will Honor St. Joseph n Saturday, April 10, 2021, the OIRL will host its annual Nation- al Meeting at the University of St. Mary of the Lake­–Mundelein Sem- inary. The theme for the meeting is: “With a Father’s Heart: St. Joseph, Guardian of the Redeemer.” Due to the ongoing Covid-19 re- strictions, the National Meeting will be a one-day meeting with limited seating so register early if you plan to attend! The speakers include: Sr. Joseph Andrew Bogdanowicz, O.P., Rev. Following Saturday’s Mass, serves as the Executive Vice-Presi- John Burns, Rev. Boniface Hicks, there will be a special dinner at dent. O.S.B., and IRL National Direc- which Mother Marie Julie Saegaert, For those who cannot attend in tor Rev. Thomas Nelson, O.Praem. S.C.M.C., will receive the 2021 Pro person, we are also live-streaming Most Rev. Donald J. Hying, Bishop Fidelitate et Virtute Award. Mother the meeting for the first time, so you of Madison, will celebrate Holy Mass Marte Julie is the Superior General can watch from home, convent or on Saturday afternoon. Audios of of the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, monastery! Please register online at the talks will be available after the Mother of the Church and has been ReligiousLifeCatalog.com, by mail or meeting. a long-time IRL Board Member and by calling (847)573-8975. New 30-Day Devotional for LA Regional Meeting– the Year of Save the Date! new booklet, Blessed St. Jo- he 2021 Los Aseph: A 30-Day Devotional on TAngeles Re- the Person and Mission of the Cho- gional Meeting will take place sen Father of Our Lord, is available on May 15, 2021, from the IRL. Written by Rick Sark- at Sts. Peter & isian, Ph.D., and edited by Michael Paul Church, in D. Wick, this 40-page booklet is Wilmington, CA. The theme of the meeting is: about the vocation and mission of “With a Father's Heart: Saint Saint Joseph—who he was, and who Joseph, Guardian of the Re- we can become by living a life that deemer.” Religious, priests, consecrat- parallels that of a man who served ed persons, laity and students Jesus like no other. are most welcome to attend. To order, call 847-573-8975 or go The cost is only $20 per person to ReligiousLifeCatalog.com. (1-10 and includes lunch. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the day copies—$3.50; 11-24 copies—$3.00; concludes with Benediction at 25-99 copies—$2.50; 100-499 copies—$1.75; 500+ Call IRL Office. Prices 3:30pm. For more information do not include S&H. please visit ReligiousLife.com.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 25 3/17/21 11:54 AM Affiliate in Focus

Handmaids of the Precious Blood New Market, Tennessee A Cloistered Contemplative Vocation for Priests he Handmaids of the Pre- cious Blood are cloistered Tcontemplatives dedicated to the honor, praise and worship of God. By their hidden apostolate, they extend the arms of prayer and sacrifice around the world, with a special solicitude for God’s priests. A Pontifical community, their love for the Church is expressed in un- swerving loyalty and fidelity to the Holy Father. Eucharistic adoration is a special aspect of their ecclesial mission. The spiritual life of the Hand- maids is centered on the Holy Eu- charist. As such, they treasure the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass as the highest act of worship offered to the Blessed Trinity. There is no greater gift on earth or a more efficacious Hours in English is chanted daily communion with God. Every day prayer for the salvation of souls. in chapel together by all the sisters. they set aside dedicated time to As their Founder so clearly They also have a deep, filial prayerfully read Sacred Scripture stated, their life “is tied, anchored, love for Mary, the first Handmaid and other holy works. bound, fastened, and focused in the of the Lord. The community seeks The Handmaids of the Precious Blessed Sacrament.” This is their to imitate Our Lady’s fiat and con- Blood wear a full length wine red apostolate, which allows each sister template Christ with her in faith, habit, a scapular with an attached to extend her love for Jesus and her particularly in the Holy Rosary the Trinitarian emblem, a long white gratitude to Him to every hour of sisters pray daily in community be- veil, cincture, and Rosary. The the day and night. Each sister en- fore Our Lord in the Most Blessed wine red color symbolizes the Pre- joys at least one daily Holy Hour in Sacrament. cious Blood and their white veil addition to several nocturnal Holy Since prayer is the life and symbolizes the Eucharist. A simple Hours each week. strength of their own souls, and the silver ring is worn by perpetually Communal prayer is essential soul of their apostolate, the Hand- professed Handmaids. to the Handmaids of the Precious maids take seriously the need and The motto of their communi- Blood. The entire Liturgy of the the importance of faithful, daily ty is Pro Christo In Sacerdote Suo.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 26 3/17/21 11:54 AM In the Spirit of the Founders. . . Bearing Witness to Christ’s Love

n 1947, the Handmaids of the Precious Blood were founded Iby Rev. Gerald Fitzgerald, s.P. Father’s desire was to have enough Handmaids for Perpetual Eucharis- tic Adoration to pray and sacrifice for the sanctification of priests. But with a cadre of professional women (“For Christ In His Priest”). Their skilled in nursing, administration, spirit is that of unbounded love and education, the small group of of Jesus Christ in His Priests. All “pioneers” soon found themselves that they do, in union with and in applying their capabilities through- imitation of the Precious Blood, out the Archdiocese of Santa Fe is directed so that priests be holy in very active apostolates. Father nity allowed three more convents priests. The Handmaids offer them- Gerald advised joyful obedience to open beginning with Lake Villa, selves in immolation and repara- despite the nature of the work not Illinois, in 1980; Spokane, Washing- tion for all priests, particularly for being strictly related to the priest- ton, in 1981; and Italy in 1991. those who have lost sight of their hood as he intended; knowing the While visiting the community sublime calling, praying for the Lord would be pleased with this in Jemez Springs and examining the grace of their conversion. They sac- sacrifice, he predicted that one day day-to-day lives of the Sisters, Car- rifice their lives completely for the the Church would direct the Hand- dinal Paul Augustin Mayer, OSB, souls of priests, mindful of the vast maids to the contemplative life for Prefect of the Congregation for Reli- numbers of souls just one priest can the sake of priests and all those de- gious Institutes, suggested that they influence in his lifetime through his pending on their prayers. apply for recognition as a fully con- sacramental ministry and personal As the community grew in the templative community of pontifical witness. 1950s and 1960s, Handmaids of right. With the guidance and help “We are so very grateful to our the Precious Blood could be found of Rev. John A. Hardon, S.J., their Lord for bringing us vocations at in England, Vermont, South Dako- Rule of Life was revised and submit- this time, when our priests need ta, and Missouri, as well as several ted to the Vatican, and approved by special support in prayer,” say the locations in New Mexico. Eucha- Pope John Paul II in 1992. Handmaids. “One young woman ristic Adoration was central to the Cardinal Raymond Burke, then will become a Postulant this Spring, life. After Father Gerald’s death in Archbishop of St. Louis, and a long- another will be continuing her As- 1969, the Sisters approved interim time supporter of the community, pirancy, and four will be visiting for Constitutions which stripped away strongly encouraged them to con- ‘Come and See’s.’” the active works which were not re- sider relocation in order to preserve lated to the charism of prayer and their enclosed, contemplative life. For more information contact: sacrifice for priests; all convents After an extended period of prayer, Handmaids of the Precious Blood were closed and all members were reflection and discernment, the Cor Jesu Monastery recalled to the Motherhouse in Je- Handmaids accepted an invitation 596 Callaway Ridge mez Springs, New Mexico, with the from Most Rev. Richard Stika, Bish- New Market, TN 37820 exception of the Clinic for the Poor op of Knoxville, to come into his di- [email protected] in Santa Fe. By 1978, Perpetual Eu- ocese. In 2013 after selling their New charistic Adoration with Exposition NunsforPriests.org Mexico property, the entire commu- was begun. Growth in the commu- nity moved to Eastern Tennessee.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 27 3/17/21 11:54 AM Theological Reflections

By Rev John A. Hardon, S.J. /IRL Founder (1914–2000) Authenticity in the Religious Life here seems to be a special closer intimacy with God, of actual as few but the wealthiest or most un- value in reflecting on the au- poverty beyond what other people inhibited individuals enjoy. Tthenticity in the religious life practice, of consecrated chastity that They see men and women who in our time. sacrifices the pleasures and the pros- profess to belong to an apostolic com- If there is anything that the pects of marriage and of dependence munity but who are literally scattered modern world abhors it is pretense. by obedience on a superior. to the four points of the compass in It can forgive a person for not being They also know, because they response to what is called “self-ful- intelligent or educated, for not being have the record of the achievement, fillment.” They have left in a single skilled or trained, even for not being that religious work together in the decade more empty convents, more a law abiding citizen. Church’s educational and welfare vacant schools, more closed welfare What it despises is make-believe, apostolate, as a community; that institutions, than it took over a cen- where a person claims to be what he schools, hospitals, homes for the aged tury of hard-earned sacrifice to build. is not, or professes to possess what and handicapped, would be impos- Words fail us to describe the sham- he does not have. Such descriptions sible to maintain unless they were bles of a once-flourishing religious as counterfeit and phony, artificial maintained as corporate enterprises, life in large segments of the Western and imitation, are only symbolic of a with dedicated personnel of religious world. It would take an or Jer- deep-felt need in our day for honesty who labor, without pay, and whose ser- emiah to do justice to the injustice, and sincerity. vices to the Church are professedly an either by default or design, against the Coming to the religious life, we extension of Christ’s practice of char- sacred institution of religious commu- can say that the need for authentic- ity when He went about doing good nities in countries like America. ity is particularly urgent because of during His earthly stay in Palestine. We are in a position to ask our- the critical situation in the Catholic All of this people know about re- selves the question: with all the bab- Church in our day. ligious. But what do they see? ble of confusing opinions everywhere, What is this situation that calls for They see men and women pro- when once-trustworthy journals are authenticity? It is the predicament in fessing to be poor but too often liv- saying such contradictory things about which believing Catholics find them- ing and dressing and experiencing the religious life, how can we still tell selves, seeing so many people who call the good things of life in a way that what is authentic and what is false? themselves religious and yet, to all ap- contradicts this profession. There is no problem for those who pearances, act and live otherwise. They see not a few men and wom- have the faith, as there is no solution People are, therefore, confused. en professing celibacy and chastity apart from humble obedience to the Most of them, even the Catholic but living in ways that hardly witness Church’s teaching authority. faithful who know a good deal about to Christian celibacy and defending For one who believes, the au- the religious life in general, may not their conduct as a form of “the third thenticity of religious life is found in know the refined details of living out way” or of development of their femi- the Gospels, in the history of Chris- the evangelical counsels. But they do nine or masculine personality. tian sanctity, and the teaching of the have a correct image of what religious They see men and women pro- Catholic Church. Each of these three life is supposed to be. fessing consecrated obedience but sources gives us a separate and dis- They know, for example, that re- actually having such independence of tinct insight into what genuine reli- ligious are professing to live a life of time, travel, work and entertainment, gious life should be.

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3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 28 3/17/21 11:54 AM INSPIRING WORKS ON VIRTUE, LOVE & FRIENDSHIP

◆ NOT FORGOTTEN ◆ TRUE FRIENDSHIP George Weigel John Cuddeback “If the One whom I love, the Weigel has known many interesting We all want true friends. But how do we personalities in politics, religion, jour- greatest gift of my life, is close know what friendship is, or where nalism, the academy, entertainment, to me, then even in difficulties to nd it? Philosopher Cuddeback and sports. In these reminiscences and I can experience in the depth weaves together the timeless wisdom of elegies of some 60 people, he helps us of my heart a joy that is greater Scripture, saints and the ancient Greeks understand the deep truths of the hu- than any su ering.” to map out the beautiful path to man’s man condition illuminated by these —Joseph Ratzinger greatest joy—true friendship. not-forgotten lives. Written with verve Using Aristotle’s teachings on the deep and insight on the consequential lives ◆ connection between happiness and that have touched his own including ON LOVE virtuous living, Cuddeback shows that Albert Einstein, William F. Buckley, Joseph Ratzinger/Benedict XVI true friendship can only be achieved Flannery O’Connor, Franz Jägerstätter, Benedict XVI addresses the theme through a life of virtue, and this is John Paul II, Jackie Robinson, Charles he has celebrated, pondered, and wit- where the human person comes most Krauthammer, Sophie Scholl, and nessed by his life more than any other: fully alive. He o ers rich advice on how many more. love. For him, love is the vital nucleus of to tap into this reality in our own lives. NFP . . . Sewn Softcover, $17.95 the Church and to serve Christ is above TFP . . . Sewn Softcover, $15.95 all a question of love: “Peter, do you “Moving and delightful, these reminis- love me? Feed my sheep.” Love is also "Wonderfully clear and concise.  is book cences prove that Weigel has not only a the quest of every human being on the is very wise, very practical, and very much mind of the very rst order, but the heart journey toward eternity. needed." —Peter Kree , Ph.D. to match.” —Mary Eberstadt Arranged by the liturgical seasons of Author, Wisdom from the Psalms Author, & Eve a er the Pill the Church year, these writings trace how Joseph Ratzinger has been enam- “Cuddeback demonstrates that true “Weigel displays his distinctive blend of ored of the love of God throughout his friendship based on virtue bene ts the philosophic sophistication and humane years of serving the Church. individual, family life, and social life. sympathy. An intellectual feast.” JRSW3P . . . Sewn Softcover, $15.95 Highly recommended." —George F. Will —Alice von Hildebrand, Ph.D. Author,  e Conservative Sensibility Author,  e Privilege of Being a Woman

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P.O. Box 1339, Ft. Collins, CO 80522 (800) 651-1531

3-16 Mar-Apr 2021 .indd 29 3/17/21 11:54 AM PO Box 7500, Libertyville, IL 60048

“Institute on Religious Life”

2021 IRL National Meeting Saturday, April 10, 2021 With a Father’s Heart: St. Joseph, Guardian of the Redeemer he 2021 IRL National Meeting will be held on Saturday, April 10, 2021, at Tthe University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, Illinois. The meeting will be live-streamed for those who cannot attend in person. Audios of the talks will be available after the meeting. Speakers: Sr. Joseph Andrew Bogdanowicz, OP: Ite ad Joseph, A Man for Others! Rev. Thomas Nelson, O.Praem.: The Crisis in the Church Rev. Boniface Hicks, O.S.B.: St. Joseph: Master of the Interior Life Rev. John Burns: Heart of Joseph: Chaste Spouse, Guardian of Virgins, Terror of Demons Most Rev. Donald Hying: Mass Homily To register, contact: Mother Marie Julie Saegaert, S.C.M.C.: Award Ceremony CD Set (6 talks) $30.00 | MP3 CD (6 talks) $20.00 | Individual CDs $5.00/CD Institute on Religious Life P.O. Box 7500 Libertyville, IL The 2021 Pro Fidelitate et Virtute Award will be 60048-7500 bestowed upon Mother Marie Julie Saegaert, S.C.M.C. Mother is the Superior General of the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the (847) 573-8975 Church and was a long-time IRL Board Member [email protected] and Executive Vice-President.

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