December 2014 catholicvi.com

Save the Date Saturday, January 31, 2015: Preparations under way for the sixth annual Keys and Sword Award Benefit

Journey of Faith Donald C. François co-honoree of the 2015 Keys and Sword Award Benefit

Spiritual Fitness Take the Initiative: Give and receive forgiveness

To shepherds keeping watch over their flocks: Today is born to you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord! Inside this issue BISHOP'S CALENDAR:

Sat., Dec. 6 4 from the editor's desk • Mass at Holy Cross, Christiansted at 6 p.m. 5 local news • 50th Anniversary Dinner at Saint Joseph High School in 10 liturgical calendar Mt. Pleasant, 7 p.m. Sun., Dec. 7 12 cover story • Mass Sacred Heart Chapel, Keeping watch o'er their flocks: Christiansted, 9 a.m. Faithful shepherds. Mon., Dec. 8 From the Bishop’s Desk 14 journey of faith • School Mass, Feast of the Donald C. François. Immaculate Conception, 8 a.m. • Mass Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Fri., Dec. 19 15 saint of the month Paul, 12:15 p.m. • Mass, Sts. Peter and Paul School, Learn and share the faith. Tues., Dec. 9 Anticipation of Christmas, 8 a.m. • Keys & Sword Executive Committee Sun., Dec. 21 16 theology 101 meeting, Hospitality Lounge, SPPC, • Mass St. Anne Chapel, The Sixth Commandment. 6 p.m. Frenchtown, 8 a.m. Wed., Dec. 10 • Mass SPPC, 10:30 a.m. 18 in the know with father joe • Catholic Charities Board Meeting. Why should we have to pay for Christmas Eve, Dec. 24 religious education? Thurs., Dec. 11 • Midnight Mass SPPC. • Diocesan Finance Committee 20 world news meeting, (Hospitality Lounge, Christmas Day, Dec. 25 SPPC), 6 p.m. • Mass SPPC, 10:30 a.m. • Spanish Mass SPPC, 12:30 p.m. 22-25 parish calendars Sun., Dec. 14 • Mass Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Sun., Dec. 28 25 ¡buenas noticias! Mafolie, 9 a.m. • Feast Day Mass at Holy Family, 7:30 a.m. Wed., Dec. 17 • Annual meeting of Presbyterate Wed., Dec. 31 Council and Priests' Christmas Party • Old Year's Eve, Mass SPPC, ON THE with the Bishop. 10:30 a.m. COVER: The Annunciation to the Shepherds Bishop Bevard met (1663) by with members of the Abraham Cathedral Renovation Hondius. Committee. Among those present was 2014 Keys and Sword co- honoree, Mr. Donald C. Francois (left), who Please submit toured the cathedral news and digital photography for the with the group following January 2015 issue of The Catholic a meeting in the Islander to: Hospitality Lounge. [email protected]. The Magazine of the Father John Matthew Fewel Charlotte Banks Brother James Petrait, OSFS EDITOR Roman Catholic Diocese Lillia King WEBMASTER ADVERTISING Submit advertising to: of St. Thomas in the Sarah Jane von Haack [email protected]. Virgin Islands MANAGING EDITOR Christine Joseph Deacon Emith Fludd Proof Reader Most Reverend Herbert Bevard Jenny Bis CIRCULATION PUBLISHER GRAPHIC DESIGNER www.FAITHcatholic.com

2 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com His Excellency Bishop Herbert A. Bevard, Bishop of St. Thomas and The Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands Present: The Sixth Annual Keys and Sword Award Benefit Saturday, January 31, 2015 Marriott Frenchman’s Reef Hotel

Mr. Donald C. Mrs. Esonia François Monsanto-Hassell

Bishop’s Champagne Reception | 6:00 p.m. Special Music by Francis Callwood

Dinner | 7:15 p.m. Program with special entertainment and dancing with Milo’s Kings till Midnight 40/60 Raffle, Select Prize Drawings and Grand Prizes

(Complimentary Shuttle Service from Havensight Mall and Red Hook Ferry Dock to and from “The Reef”)

Tickets and ad sponsorships are available from Ticket Sellers at each parish and all church offices. Refer to your parish bulletin for ticket seller names.

3 Daughters of the Holy Family of Bafoussam (DHFB)

Teachers, catechists, medical missionary workers and parish ministry. Motherhouse in Cameroon, Africa.

(l-r): Sister Joan Lukong Venyena, DHFB, Sister Mary Elizabeth, DHFB, Superior General, and Sister Giselle Kinyuy Ngoran, DHFB.

The Year of Consecrated Life begins: First Sunday Of Advent

he Year of Consecrated Life, which was proclaimed by Pope Francis, started on November 30, 2014, and will conclude on February 2, 2016. “Consecrated Life” refers to all of the priests, brothers and Tsisters who dedicate themselves to the religious life by taking the vows or From the Editor's Desk promises of poverty, chastity and obedience in a religious order. By Father John Matthew Fewel

Text by Brother James States that are devoted to the charisms important idea is about all of the religious A. Petrait, O.S.F.S. of their founders and that have followed priests, brothers and sisters in the diocese (Oblates of St. Francis the evangelical councils throughout the and throughout the world and the need to De Sales) centuries and have contributed their keep up and increase their numbers. Christian service to a countless number of I think all men and women who are In the Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin persons. discerning their pathway through life Islands, we have two religious orders of According to the Center for Applied should seriously consider the vocation to men: the Congregation of the Most Holy Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown become a religious priest, brother or sister. Redeemer (C.Ss.R) and the Oblates of St. University, there are (2014) 12,010 religious I encourage anyone who is interested to Francis de Sales (O.S.F.S.). Both groups have priests, 4,318 religious brothers and 49,883 learn more about the religious orders in members who may be priests or brothers. religious sisters in the United States. All the diocese and explore the many religious Also in the diocese there are six religious of the figures are down by more orders throughout the world. A orders of sisters: the Missionaries of Charity than 50 percent since 1970. comprehensive list of religious (M.C.), the Daughters of the Holy Family In the 1990s, I wrote an orders can be found at www. of Bafoussam (D.H.F.B.), the Dominican article for The Catholic Islander catholiclinks.org. Go to the seventh Sisters of the Immaculate Mother (O.P.), the newspaper entitled, “The Last link called, “Religious Groups.” Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Heart Brother in Paradise.” Since that During the Year of Consecrated of Mary (I.C.M.), the Sisters of the Good time, several brothers have come Life, it is my hope that we can all Shepherd (R.G.S.) and the West Indian and gone. At this time, I am the only become more aware and thankful for Franciscans (W.I.F.). religious brother in the diocese. I was going the gift of the religious life throughout the There are many religious orders to write an article entitled “Last Brother world, and that we offer up our prayers for throughout the world and in the United in Paradise, Part 2,” but I think the more an increase in vocations to the religious life.

4 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com Local News

Receiving a traditional blessing after Mass at the cathedral from Msgr. Msgr. Feudjio, with concelebrant Father Verzosa (center) for anniversary milestones are, from left Mr. Leopold Scantlebury, speaks at the Funeral Mass of cathedral Sprauve, Usher; his wife, Marion, Bernadette Pinney, and her husband, choir member Mervin Kitnurse. Deacon Danet (left) Mr. Gilbert Pinney, Usher. assisted.

Rosary crusade Mr. Emmanuel Suaner, in his third year of theology studies for the Diocese A public square rosary crusade was held October 11, 2014, at Emancipation of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands was Gardens. Parishioners from Holy Family, the Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul, instituted as an Acolyte with his class, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and St. Anne Chapel at St. Paul Seminary on October 21, joined together for the rosary. Beginning at noon with the Angelus, the Holy 2014. The sacred Order of Acolyte was Rosary was followed by the Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Prayer of Total conferred upon the men by the Most Consecration of St. Louis DeMontefort and the Divine Praises. Reverend Andrew H. Cozzens, auxiliary bishop of Minneapolis-St. Paul. 5 Local News Rosary Walk in Fredericksted

Pastor of St. Patrick Church, Father Patrick Lynch, CSsR, led the St. Patrick parishioners in praying the Father E. Patrick rosary for America. They marched through the streets of Frederiksted, stopping at the Legislature Building Lynch, CSsR, pastor of St. Patrick’s Church in to pray the rosary. This takes place annually during October – the month of the rosary of the Blessed Virgin Fredericksted. Mary. As they prayed the rosary, they joined millions across the nation and other places praying at the same time for world peace.

Student Honored Deacon Neville St. Joseph High Charles retired on School student Estelle October 26, 2014, E. Jules, grade 11, after assisting at proudly displays his last, official, the Honor Diploma scheduled Mass. awarded for her The following participation in “The Wednesday, Junior Statesmen St. Joseph Summer School” Parish honored at Georgetown Deacon Charles, University from June recognizing how 15 to July 16, 2014. much he means to so many and CATHOLIC CHARITIES’ DECEMBER FOOD DRIVE how much he is appreciated. Please collect the following items at your church, school or workplace and bring them to Catholic Charities: • Powdered milk, rice, lentils and beans • Infant formula and baby food • Canned meat and vegetables

6 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com Local News Cathedral baptisms

Father Eduardo Ortiz-Santiago baptized five babies at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral on September 28, 2014.

Brother Patrick Clement Leavy, CFC 1941-2013

Brother Patrick Clement Leavy, CFC (Congregation of Christian Brothers), passed away on September 26, 2013. Brother Leavy received a BA in Classical Language from Iona College (New Rochelle, NY), his MA in guidance from Seton Hall University (South Orange Village, NJ), and his HD in Religious Education from Marcelino Champagnat (Lima, Perú). Many Virgin Islanders remember Br. Leavy for his time as Director of the Diaconate Program here. May he rest in peace among the 30 Years for Franciscan Community – Sister Patricia Alexander, W.I.F. (right) Blessed for his and Sister Audrey Abel, W.I.F., celebrate the 30th anniversary (16th anniversary service to our for Sister Audrey) of the founding of the West Indian Franciscan Community diocese. Requiescat on St. Croix. Mass and renewal of vows at St. Ann Barrenspot were followed by in pace, frater. a luncheon in their honor at the Franciscan House, which was sponsored by the Secular Franciscan Order. 7 Local News

St. Joseph High School biology students do practical science under the direction of the teacher, Ms. Shenelle Dore, an alumnus of St. Joseph High School. Pictured (l-r): Omisha Williams, grade 10; Ms. Shenelle Dore, teacher; Mhina Barry, grade 10; and Xarquisha Somme, grade 10.

Welcome Back, Daughter

St. Joseph alumnus teaches biology at alma mater

Ms. Shenelle Dore, a 2010 graduate of St. Joseph High School and a 2014 graduate of the University of the Virgin Islands, is a new teacher at St. Joseph High School. During a mid-September class in Building 4 of St. Joseph High School, Ms. Dore had her biology students perform an experiment on the effects of rain on seed germination. Shenelle’s sister, Zina Dore, a 2006 graduate of St. Joseph High School, is the math teacher at St. Joseph High School. (l-r) One Carrington, grade 10; Lyon Payne, grade 10; and Zackana Khaled, grade 10. 8 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com Local News

Banners circle the gorgeous interior of the Cathedral of Sts. Peter and Paul immediately after the 10:30 a.m. Sunday Mass. During hurricane season, special prayers and hymns are offered up for God's protection from tropical storms and all hazards of nature which threaten our islands.

The pastor of Holy Cross Church in Christiansted, Father John In October, St. Joseph Juszczak, C.Ss.R., visited with His Excellency, Bishop Herbert High School science teacher Bevard after Mass on a recent episcopal visit. Brother James Petrait, O.S.F.S, demonstrated rotational inertia to his physics students by swinging a bucket of water over his head. Because of rotational inertia, the water did not come out of the bucket when it was upside down. Guarding against mishap, Brother James performed the demonstration in the back of the classroom so that it couldn't accidentally become a demonstration of the effect of a waterfall on the class.

PROTECTION OF CHILDREN

The Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands is committed to protecting children from all harm. If you have knowledge of any church worker who Randolph Laudat is known for his excellent service to the may have abused a minor, please contact the Cathedral Parish. He is the man who does all that is needed with diocesan child protection coordinator, Callista the building and maintenance. Here, with his wife Cassie, Randolph Julien, at 340.778.0484 or 340.772.4214. receives a traditional blessing after Mass from Father Bruce Anderson. The Laudats recently celebrated nine years of marriage. 9 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com Liturgical Calendar

Using the Calendar

This calendar provides the liturgical In some cases, the names of saints celebrations for the Dioceses of the have been abbreviated or eliminated United States of America and Canada. because of space constraints. Each spoke in this calendar wheel The days of the liturgical year are represents a week. Weeks begin on the ranked according to importance to the Lord’s Day, Sunday (the outer hub on faith life of the Church. The typeface the wheel), and end on Saturday (the used on this calendar indicates this inner hub). Each liturgical time in the ranking. The great solemnities of the liturgical year is a different color. Notice liturgical year are set in the largest the liturgical times Advent, Christmas typeface [EASTER SUNDAY]. These time, Lent and Easter time. Between include each Sunday, solemnities of Lent and Easter time, you will find the the Lord and of the saints and feasts sacred paschal Triduum, the three days of the Lord. The next-largest type [St. that are the center of the liturgical year. Andrew] is used for feasts of the saints. Now notice the two spans of Ordinary A smaller type [St. Elizabeth of Hungary] time. One of them comes in the winter is used for both obligatory and optional and is rather short. The other comes memorials of the saints and the beatified after Pentecost and lasts all summer who are celebrated on the general and fall. Then, after the last Sunday calendar for the dioceses of the United in Ordinary time, Advent of a new States of America and for Canada. liturgical year arrives. The smallest type is used for secular The colors used on the wheel are used observances [New Year’s Day] for to illustrate the various liturgical times. Australia, Canada and the United States The colors are not meant to point out of America. Observances particular to a individual days. Shades are chosen to country have the following parenthetical be as close to the color of the liturgical notes: (A) for Australia; (C) for Canada; time as possible while blending with (U) for the United States of America; the shades used in the art. Because of and (M) for Mexico. this, the shades will vary from year to year. Shades of violet are chosen for A fish has been placed on the both Advent and Lent (a bluer shade for days of the Lenten fast, the Advent and a redder shade for Lent). paschal fast and on Fridays that fall Different shades of gold are used to outside festive times. On these days, differentiate between Christmas time Christians are challenged by their and Easter time (the “official” liturgical tradition to pray, fast and give alms. color for Christmas time and Easter time is white; however, gold and silver An oil lamp has been placed on may also be used). Green is used for the vigils of the great solemnities the different stages of Ordinary time that by custom begin at sundown. This and red is used for the sacred paschal includes the celebration of Sunday, the Triduum (there is no “seasonal” color for Lord’s Day. Triduum – each day has its own color. In order to differentiate Triduum from Candles have been placed on Easter time, red [the color for Good feasts of the Lord and Friday] was selected.) solemnities that are not holy days of Except during Christmas time and obligation. on Pentecost, each Sunday has a large number on it. The name of a Sunday is A bread and cup has been placed usually a combination of its number and on Sundays and other days of the liturgical time. importance (holy days of obligation).

Printed with permission from Liturgy Training Publications. 11 Keeping Watch O'er Their

12 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com Cover Story Angels announcing Christ's birth to the shepherds (1639) by Govert Flinck, oil on canvas. Out among their flocks, faithful guardians of the sheep

n the great events recorded for us out in the fields and hills. Iin Scripture, where our shepherds In Matthew 24, the appreciation of – the apostles – participated in the the Master for such faithful service is promised, where Jesus, using the image of Lord’s great work of our salvation; a household servant, assured them: “Who, they were certainly present and eye then, is the faithful and prudent servant, witnesses. First and foremost of the whom the master has put in charge of his qualifications of an apostle is to be household to distribute to them their food an eyewitness! (Acts 1: 21, 22) at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master on his arrival finds Yet, at key times and momentous doing so. Amen, I say to you, he will put events, they may have been asleep – as him in charge of all his property.” Peter, James and John were in the Garden In the announcement of the Lord’s of Gethsemane – or coming on the birth by the glorious choirs of angels to scene late, as John and Peter did at the the shepherds, who were out in the fields empty tomb on the morning of Christ’s protecting their sheep, there is a picture resurrection. Sometimes they are even and a foreshadowing of the role of the absent, as St. Thomas was at the first priest among the faithful since that time appearance of Christ to His assembled even to this day. With this image comes brethren, post-resurrection, in the Upper the assurance that in the reliable, faithful, Room. (Matthias, who received the office keeping of his station and doing of his of apostle that had been vacated by the duty, the noble shepherd will never miss traitor Judas, was chosen in great part for nor be apart from but will always be close his well-known presence and witness to to the advent of the Lord and the blessing all the Lord did and said during his time and reward of his well-pleased Master. of earthly ministry.) Even the apostle to the Gentiles – Saul of Tarsus, renamed by the Lord, Paul – didn’t even receive his calling as a shepherd until much later, after Christ’s Ascension into heaven. ... Just like the Most important of all, these shepherds – choirs of the angelic the Twelve Apostles and Paul – like those tending sheep in the hills of Bethlehem hosts of heaven on that holy night of nights, were busy at their job, present to the Lord, doing heralded the arrival their best, to see to their responsibilities. of the King of Kings The good news never failed to reach them so that they could share this good news, to humble shepherds just like the choirs of the angelic hosts of of Israel far out in heaven heralded the arrival of the King of Flocks Kings to humble shepherds of Israel far the fields and hills."

By Father John Matthew Fewel, editor 13 Journey of Faith

“As a boy growing up around the Redemptorist priests stationed here, and living in the proximity of the rectory, I went to school here and joined the CYO and played basketball. The priests who were assigned – Father Tardiff, Father Murphy, Father Finn (I can go on naming quite a few!) – [they] kept me doing a lot of things rather than being out in the streets.” Donald credits his family and the good influence of men like the Redemptorist priests for helping him with the structure in life he would need to succeed. In 1949, he went to Howard University in Washington, D.C., but left to join the Air Force. It was the height of the Korean War. He returned to Howard in 1954, married his wife, Faye, and graduated in 1959 with a degree in mechanical engineering. Donald describes the culture shock that came with going into a racially segregated society. “The Virgin Islands were a melting pot, people of all different backgrounds and races. Going to college in Washington, D.C., it wasn’t exactly fully integrated. I had to go upstairs in the movies, and in certain areas you knew you weren’t welcome. The same thing when I was in the service in ’50, because even though President Truman had supposedly signed a law to integrate the services, that still wasn’t implemented.” Donald shares one story of going into the hospital with his wife to have their first daughter. “Faye was very fair-skinned and they brought her to the white maternity ward. When they saw me coming, they looked at all her paperwork and transferred her to the black ward.” Getting through difficulties like racism, which he hadn’t experienced at home, made him lean on his faith. “It was endurance,” Donald explained. “You look for a refuge, and besides having an education you also have to have faith in God and hope that these things pass ... to bear all those racial problems.” The problems did pass, as Donald moved out of the service and began climbing a career ladder as a professional engineer at world- class firms such as Boeing, Lockheed and United Technology. He and his family lived in California, in Silicon Valley, during the Donald C. François early days of technology companies. In the 1970s, he decided 2015 Keys and Sword Award Benefit to come back to his roots, and his home, and took a job on St. co-Honoree Thomas. Over the years, he continued to have interesting and challenging work, first for the government and then for the utility companies helping to improve the infrastructure on the islands. n the 1940s, across the street from the He officially retired in 1995, but, at age 84, continues to stay busy Sisters of Charity Convent and not too far consulting and on boards. from the rectory, lived a boy like so many This year, Donald is being honored (along with Esonia Hassel, last month’s Journey of Faith subject) at the Keys and Sword Gala others. He grew up going to Sts. Peter and for his work on the cathedral restoration project. Through Donald’s Paul Catholic School, singing in the choir engineering experience, he was able to advise the committee and helping serve as an acolyte at Mass. on the work that needed to be done to the cathedral and the rectory. Today, Donald Francois is proud of the project and his Though his career and life took him to involvement in it. Most of all, he’s proud of his family, including all different parts of the world, he ended up back his two accomplished daughters, his wife, his commitment to in St. Thomas. This year, Donald Francois is being mentoring young engineers and his service to God. “My faith and upbringing had a big impact on my life ... my wife and I, we’ve Ihonored for his work with the cathedral restoration lived a good life, never lost faith and we’re both very honored to – the very same church he attended as a young man. be in the service of the good Lord. 14 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com By Paul McAvoy Local News

Father Anthony Abraham of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in cooperation with Mary Baptiste of Zion Community in Trinidad, led a pilgrimage to Rome and the Holy Land September 9-23, 2014. Seventeen people from Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Holy Family Church attended the pilgrimage and 21 people with the group from Trinidad.

The Blessed Sacrament was transferred from a side altar to the sanctuary of St. Ann Bishop Bevard and Msgr. Feudjio, Chapel, Barrenspot. The two Rector of the Cathedral of Sts. Peter and angels adore the Lord Jesus Paul, with the newly arrived and installed Christ, by day and night, as shrine of St. Ursula, patroness of the they intercede for all of God's Virgin Islands, and above, Our Lady of children from the Caribbean Perpetual Help, patroness of the Diocese Islands. of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. 15 Theology 101

... The sacrament of marriage enables the woman and man to “enter into Christ’s fidelity for his Church.”

nature of love is to overflow, to be life-giving. Marriage, The Sixth Commandment: then, is meant for not only growing in spousal love, but You shall not commit adultery for transmitting life. In fact, children are the crowning glory of a marriage. The “union of man and he “sixth word” of the Decalogue primarily reveals to us woman in marriage is a way our vocation to love and communion. Made in the image of of imitating in the flesh the Creator’s generosity and God, we are invited to participate in the very life and love fecundity.” It is precisely T through this union that of God. For this reason, the unity, or wholeness, of a person the spouses participate in a depends on the ability of that person to maintain the “integrity of the spiritual communion with powers of life and love placed in [the person].” one another and with God, for whom we are all created.

Affirming faith

THE SIXTH GIFT: living in harmony with the very nature, is directed to Because the spouses You shall not ends, or purposes, of marriage: relationship, as it is only enter into a unique and commit adultery the good of the spouses and in relationship that we indissoluble covenant, fidelity the procreation of children. achieve a true wholeness as a is of central importance. In marriage, the couple In other words, marriage communion of persons. God Fidelity “expresses constancy together form a lifelong is inseparably unitive and established marriage precisely in keeping one’s word” and partnership of this same procreative precisely because it so that man and woman could represents a participation in life and love, both giving of participates in the love and life participate in his love and thus the life of God, who is always themselves “definitely and of God. selflessly give themselves to faithful. In this way, the totally to one another.” They It is unitive because each other in love. sacrament of marriage enables maintain this integrity by the human body, by its It is procreative because the the woman and man to “enter 16 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com Bible geography facts into Christ’s fidelity for his Rephidim was a stopping point for Moses and the Israelites Church.” as they passed from the wilderness of Sin en route to In the Book of Genesis, the wilderness of Sinai. The Book of Exodus notes three God issues a command to important events taking place at Rephidim: the Israelites "Let there be …" and it comes miraculously received water after finding the streams at to pass. It is, in a sense, the Rephidim were all dry; the repulsion of an Amalekite attack verbal manifestation of God's on Israel, a battle which was won only after Moses climbed consent to the existence of that a hill and raised his hands in the air; and the building of a which is created. This act of memorial altar by Moses to commemorate the victory. creation is imitated during the Rephidim is traditionally identified with Wadi Feiran, marriage ceremony, where the which is Sinai’s largest valley. Since the fourth century AD, two are required to consent churches have dotted the landscape as the area became an before the community to the important pilgrimage site. The valley is characterized chiefly creation of the union. by the Oasis of Feiran, the largest oasis in Sinai, and its huge However, Genesis also sprawl of palms. Sheer cliffs also surround the valley, adding VICTORY O LORD! teaches that this initial to its mystique. consent is not sufficient for by John Everett Millais, 1871 the maintenance of creation. Did you know? Rephidim literally means “rests.” "Then God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light. God saw that the light was good." (Gen. 1, 3-4) Here we have marriage in favor of a more QUIZ! the consent followed by the narrow focus limited only to The story of the Israelites’ journey from affirmation that it is good for the needs of the individual slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land the light to exist. This formula self, in which the existence of has a large cast of characters. Test your is repeated with each step the other is neither recognized knowledge of biblical figures and name this of creation. This affirmation nor affirmed. group: that creation is good is the foundation of our being. Lethal lust Q: Taking their name from one of the 12 sons So at each moment, God of Jacob, this priestly tribe watched over the holds creation in existence It should come as no Tabernacle in the Wilderness. through affirmation. Without surprise then why in this continuous commitment Matthew 5:27-28 Jesus takes A: Levites to affirmation, creation the commandment against would simply pass away. In adultery even further, teaching the same way, marriage is an that anyone who looks from their true end of unity – provides us with a very invitation into this same loving lustfully at a person who is not within the person, with others important reminder with commitment and powerful his or her spouse has “already and with God. regard to living out this participation in the life of committed adultery … in Lust’s impure desires forget commandment: “Love and God. But the demands that go [their] heart.” God and reduce our neighbors life according to the Gospel with such participation are no Lust is deadly precisely (this means spouses, too) cannot be thought of first and less applicable. because it attacks the unity and even our very selves into foremost as a kind of precept, Marriage is a choice and of both the person and the mere objects of gratification. It because what they demand is one has to choose it every person’s relationship with stimulates the thought that we beyond [a human’s] abilities. day. A marriage has to be others in the living out of are in control; that the powers They are possible only as the continuously affirmed. This their vocation to chastity of life and love originate with result of a gift of God who need for constant attentiveness (which is really about order). us rather than with God. heals, restores and transforms is modeled by God in By introducing division and the human heart by his grace.” maintaining creation and is separation between the powers The good news the very act of love. Hence, of life and love in our minds, - All quotes from the Catechism of the infidelity can be viewed as lust disorients, misdirects and Pope St. John Paul, in Catholic Church (2331-2391) except as any act of inattention to the inverts these powers away Veritatis Splendor (23), otherwise noted 17 In the Know with Father Joe

Why should we have to pay for religious education?

Dear Father Joe: My parish expects parents to jump through a lot of "hoops" in order to have our children participate in religious education. I think the time and money commitments are unreasonable – what can I do?

Before we dive fully into Please allow me to explain They write emails, make calls for us to see each instance of this, I want to establish a what I mean and see if this and sometimes even engage pain as a problem to be solved. common foundation: I’m might shed some light on how in a sort of whisper campaign Sometimes, pain is a part of the assuming that you, like me, you can respond. (gossip!) in order to reduce the experience that we need to have. aren’t bothered by the fact It starts with the best of things: credibility of those who teach. When we hurt because we are that they are asking for money a hunger to share what gives life. That, too, can be utterly serving God’s People and they for the program, but that Most people who teach and heartbreaking. don’t seem to be responding, they are asking for too much. share the faith begin doing Beyond these, there are the then we have been offered a Obviously, some amount of so simply because they have usual heartbreaks and sorrows special grace: a glimpse into the money will be asked of most found such great joy in living attached to any labor of love, heart of God. Join your pain to people in this situation, just the life of faith. They have and the pain and irritation can His. Ask His forgiveness for the to cover costs associated with an experience of God and sometimes lead to an effort to times you’ve responded half- the program. Textbooks, paper are excited to share it. They control: a sort of “We’ll make heartedly or put Him second, and supplies cost money. volunteer to teach, complete you do this right.” That, my third or fourth in your life. Regarding the “hoops,” their training, gather their friend, is where we get into If you are a catechist reading first ask yourself honestly if materials and plan out how trouble. this and you find yourself these are really unreasonable. they can share the beautiful If you’re a parent reading guilty of attempting to force Is the catechist asking for traditions and teachings of this and you have children in results, don’t fret. Ask God’s more than what your child’s our Church in a way that will a religious education program, forgiveness and get back on regular school teacher asks? If, communicate it all effectively. I pray that you respond to the the horse. I would imagine upon genuine reflection, you Often, one of the first woundedness of teachers with that the vast majority of people believe that there are arbitrary things people in that position great love and sensitivity. Thank who have taught the faith have requirements, it may be that experience is a kind of shocked them regularly for their hard done the exact same thing – I this is their wounded response sadness: not everyone is “buying work and volunteering of time. know I have. to the typical difficulties and in.” No matter how well you Pray for them more than you Dr. Peter Kreeft puts it this challenges of being a catechist. plan, no matter how much of do for most others. As best you way: “We try too much and yourself you put into it, there will can, commit yourself and your trust too little. Count the times always be any number of people kids to the program, not simply God's Book tells us to ‘try.’ who take it for granted and do doing what is convenient, but Now count the times it tells us the absolute minimum to get by. what is necessary for your child to ‘trust.’” There will always be parents who to know the faith and grow in I pray that God heals and put sports above faith in raising the faith. strengthens all our wounded their kids and who seem to have If you are a catechist hearts and guides us toward their children in the program in reading this, I invite you to deeper trust in Him and in order to jump hoops. remember that our job is not each other. As a teacher, it is utterly to “get results” from others, Enjoy another day in God’s heartbreaking. but to be faithful in what God presence! Beyond that, teachers also requires of us. This will keep run into those who attack: us from adding layers and people who are either self- layers of requirements onto appointed theological police our programs for no other or those who fancy themselves reason than to abrogate the What kind of bird as experts and advocates for a pain that we forget is part of sticks to sweaters? specific cause and wonder why the mission. A: A VEL-CROW! you’re not teaching what they Yep. I typed that – pain is a think you should be teaching. part of our mission. It’s too easy By Father Joe Krupp 18 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com Local News 1 The Haitian Community at Holy Family Church: People on the move!

Under the pastoral care of Holy Family pastor, Father Father Neil Neil Scantlebury, Scantlebury, Holy and Father Kerly Family Pastor François, who heads the Apostolate, the Haitian Community moves ahead in faith.

1. Father Kerly François cleaning Holy Family Church together with faithful members of the Haitian Community. 2 2. Miss Hillarin (center) and one of several classes made up of members of the Haitian community at Holy Family Church. 3. English instruction for the Haitian Community, and other activities, with Miss Martha (center). 4. Mass In Bovoni: Thursday, October 13, 2014, at the home of Maria Griffin. Plans are underway for regular Sunday Mass in Bovoni. A new permanent location for the celebration of Sunday Holy Mass for the Haitian community is currently under consideration.

3 4

19 World News

POPE PROCLAIMS 2015 YEAR FOR CONSECRATED LIFE Buddhist composes Pope Francis has symphony to mark pope’s proclaimed 2015 the Sri Lanka visit Year for Consecrated Life, which will begin In an effort of religious on the First Sunday reconciliation, the Sri of Advent and end Lankan government has Visit the USCCB on February 2, 2016, commissioned a symphony online to find more the World Day of from Buddhist composer information on the 2015 Consecrated life. Vajira Indika Karunasena to Year of Consecrated Life commemorate Pope Francis’ apostolic voyage to the  www.usccb.org nation in January 2015.

Church complaint says Cardinal Pell's secretariat Project Rachel looks to a abortion ruling coerces continues economic reform at global future millions of Californians the Vatican After 30 years of providing 50th anniversary of Vatican II The California Catholic The Secretariat for the post-abortion healing and Conference has filed a federal Economy is developing a support across the United Perfectae Caritatis, a decree civil rights complaint protesting financial management manual States, Project Rachel on the renewal of religious a state ruling mandating the that will be the basis of founder Vicki Thorn is life, and Lumen Gentium, the inclusion of voluntary direct budgeting and accounting hoping to take the ministry Second Vatican Council’s abortion, including gender operations in 2015 for abroad, beginning with an constitution on the Church, selection and late-term Vatican agencies. Eastern Europe training were proclaimed by Pope abortion, in California health session for Project Rachel in Paul VI in 1965 at the insurance policies. Exhibition of the relics of Poland. Second Vatican Council. St. Francis Xavier, apostle Knights of Columbus heroic to the Far East New appointments Philippines takes threat pro-life work wins Notre to Pontifical Biblical against pope seriously Dame prize The Archdiocese of Goa and Commission Daman on the western coast The Islamic State has The Knights of Columbus of Indian has announced Pope Francis has appointed declared a fatwa about the and Supreme Knight Carl that the relics will be 20 scholars to the Pontifical need to attack the pope, Anderson have been named exposed at Se Cathedral Biblical Commission for the causing the Philippines to the recipients of the from November 22, 2014, next five years. One of them take extra precautions to University of Notre Dame’s to January 4, 2015. The is from the United States, protect Pope Francis when 2015 Evangelium Vitae medal exposition is a decennial Mary Healy, a professor he visits the country in in recognition of their pro-life event, which means it occurs at Sacred Heart Major January. efforts. once every 10 years. Seminary in Detroit.

20 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com Order of Malta Virgin Islands Area

The Order of Malta is raising funds for His Excellency, Bishop Bevard’s Catholic Scholarship Program through the sale of commemorative bricks. The bricks will be installed in the Rosary Garden at Our Lady Of Perpetual Help Church. This is a great way to remember a loved one or express gratitude to God for answering a prayer. Your message will last forever.

Call 774.2166 for information

21 St. Thomas Calendar

Catholic Daughters of America Intercessory Prayer Group Court 2049 meets at Sts. Peter and Paul A team is prepared to pray for the needs Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge on the of all who ask at Holy Family Church on third Saturday of every month at 3 p.m. Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

Charismatic Prayer Knights of Columbus ▶ Prayers in Spanish are offered at Sts. Council 6187 meets at Sts. Peter and Paul Peter and Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge on the first Lounge on Mondays at 6 p.m. and third Sunday of every month at 10 a.m. ▶ Holy Family Church holds evenings of charismatic prayer on Mondays at 7 p.m. Pro-life Rosary Pray a pro-life rosary at Our Lady of Perpetual Divine Mercy Chaplet Help Church on Wednesdays at 5:45 p.m. ▶ Altar servers from Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral and Our Lady of Perpetual Legion of Mary Parishioners enjoy the air-conditioned ride to 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Masses ▶ Help Church lead the Divine Mercy Presidium María, Arca de la Alianza, on a recent Sunday. If you would like Chaplet at Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral holds meetings in Spanish at Sts. Peter to inquire about a ride to these Masses on Mondays at 3 p.m. and Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge on the cathedral van, call the Cathedral ▶ The chaplet is prayed at Our Lady of on Sundays at 2 p.m. office at 774.0201. Perpetual Help Church on Tuesdays at ▶ Presidium Mary, Mediatrix of All 3 p.m. Graces, meets in the St. Anne Chapel For more information, visit Facebook. Hall on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. com/bound4lifeUSVI or call the OLPH Holy Hours/Eucharistic Church office at 340.774.0885. Adoration Magnificat ▶ St. Therese Chapel-Divine Mercy Magnificat, an international ministry to Rosary Walk Shrine has Exposition of the Blessed Catholic women, meets at Sts. Peter and Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral hosts a rosary Sacrament Tuesday through Friday Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge on walk on the first Saturday of every month from 8 a.m. until Benediction at the first Saturday of every month at 8 a.m. at 7 a.m., followed by Mass at 7:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m. (Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.) and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. until Men’s Prayer Group St. Joseph Workers Benediction at 1 p.m. The Sons of Joseph and Mary meet at The St. Joseph Workers meet at Holy ▶ Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Family Church’s Columban Hall on the has Exposition on Tuesdays from 7:30 Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. second Sunday of every month at 9:30 a.m. a.m. until Benediction at 6 p.m. and on Fridays at 6 p.m., followed by Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Devotion St. Vincent de Paul Society 7 p.m. The Children of Mary lead a devotion to Our The Young Vincentians meet on the ▶ Holy Family Church and St. Anne Lady of Fatima at Holy Family Church on third Sunday of every month at 11:30 Chapel have Holy Hours with the first Saturday of every month at 4 p.m. a.m. The adult members meet on the Exposition and Benediction on Fridays fourth Saturday of every month at 3:30 at 6 p.m., followed by Mass at 7 p.m. Our Mother of p.m. Both groups meet in Holy Family Perpetual Help Devotions Church’s classroom. Devotions to Our Mother of Perpetual Help SAVE THE DATE! are prayed before Mass on Wednesdays at: World Apostolate of Fatima Saturday, January 31, 2015. ▶ Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral at 6:45 The World Apostolate of Fatima meets at Be sure to get your tickets or to a.m. and noon. Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on reserve your table for the sixth annual ▶ Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church at Thursdays at 7:30 a.m. Keys and Sword Award Benefit. Join 6:15 p.m. His Excellency, the Most Reverend ▶ Holy Family Church at 6:50 p.m. Latin Mass Herbert A. Bevard, and this year's ▶ St. Anne Chapel at 7 p.m. A weekly Tridentine Mass is offered on co-honorees Mr. Donald C. François Saturdays at 4 p.m. in the Chapel of the and Mrs. Esonia Monsanto-Hassell for Pro-life Little Flower on Main Street next to the this gala event. Tickets are available Bound 4 Life USVI, the diocesan pro-life cathedral office. The regular English Mass through your parish office. For more group, meets at Our Lady of Perpetual at 5 p.m. in the Ordinary Form is offered information, call Charlotte Banks at Help Church every other week. There is in the cathedral. Confessions begin at 3 340.774.3166. Don't miss it! also a pro-life Holy Hour and Mass at p.m. in the Chapel of the Little Flower 6 p.m. on the first Friday of the month. and 5 p.m. in the cathedral. 22 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com Advertise your business in The Catholic Islander! Call 340.774.3166, Ext. 213, for rates. 23 St. Croix Calendar

Devotions to the Gospel message on St. Croix. For more St. Gerard Majella information, contact Father Boniface Pray a devotion to St. Gerard Blanchard at 340.772.0138. Majella at Holy Cross Church Magnificat on Tuesdays at 8:45 a.m. Magnificat, an international ministry to Catholic women, meets at Franciscan House Dominica Independence Day Celebration at St. Patrick, Nov. 9, Divine Mercy Chaplet on the third Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. 2014 during 10 a.m. Mass. Cardinal Kelvin Felix (retired), from St. Joseph Church hosts Dominica, officiated. (l-r): Father Patrick Lynch, Cardinal Felix, Divine Mercy devotions Neo-catechumenal Way Father Louis Kemayou and Father Boniface-Blancard. on the fourth Sunday of The Neo-catechumenal Way leads a each month at 3 p.m. The celebration of the word at St. Joseph Church Adult Education hour-long program includes the chaplet, on Mondays and Thursdays at 7 p.m. ▶ The St. Patrick Alumni Association offers prayers, Adoration and teachings of the Our Mother of an After School Tutorial Program, which Divine Mercy by Father John Mark. Perpetual Help Devotions is coordinated by Sister Claina Letang, Devotions to Our Mother of Perpetual I.C.M. They are now also operating as a Franciscan Spirituality Help are prayed at: Public Computer Center, which is part The Our Lady of the Angels fraternity of the ▶ St. Patrick Church on Wednesdays at of the ViNGN Digital Literacy Program. Third Order of St. Francis shares Franciscan 6:30 a.m. and 8 a.m. It is open to the public during scheduled spirituality at Franciscan House on the ▶ Holy Cross Church on Wednesdays and mornings to mid-day. fourth Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. Saturdays at 8:45 a.m. ▶ The Religious of the Good Shepherd Rosary Prayer Group ▶ St. Joseph Church on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. offer adult education classes in Spanish Cenacle of Our Lady of the Rosary Prayer at the Good Shepherd Center Monday Rosary for the Unborn Group meets at the Franciscan House St. Joseph Church hosts a bilingual through Friday. These courses include every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Spanish writing, English as a Second English/Spanish rosary for the unborn on Language and computer courses in Holy Hours/Eucharistic Adoration Fridays at 6 p.m. Windows, Word, Excel and Internet. ▶ Holy Cross Church has Holy Hour Santo Niño following the 8:15 a.m. Mass, followed Bible Study St. Joseph Church hosts devotions to the by Eucharistic Adoration until 1 p.m., Santo Niño (the Holy Child Jesus) on the Holy Cross Church hosts Bible studies in on the first Friday of every month. McAlpin Hall on Wednesdays and Saturdays first Saturday of every month at 4:30 p.m. ▶ Holy Cross Church has Eucharistic at 9 a.m., following morning Mass. The sacrament of reconciliation is offered Adoration with confession from 11 a.m. during this time. Carmelite Spirituality to 1 p.m. every Friday. The Our Lady Star of the Sea Community ▶ St. Patrick Church has a Holy Hour with Shepherds of Christ Associates The Shepherds of Christ Associates meet shares Carmelite spirituality in the St. Exposition and Benediction on Fridays for prayer in the St. Michael Chapel of Joseph Church Hospitality Lounge and after the 8 a.m. Mass. St. Joseph Church on Wednesdays at Learning Center on the fourth Sunday of ▶ St. Patrick Church has a full day of 7:30 p.m. and on the second and fourth each month at 1 p.m. Eucharistic Adoration on Wednesdays. ▶ St. Ann Church has a Holy Hour with Sunday of every month at 5 p.m. Charismatic Prayer exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Spanish Prayer and Reflection ▶ St. Patrick Church has charismatic evening prayer and Benediction every Pray the rosary and share reflections on prayer in the chapel on the third Friday Friday at 5:30 p.m. except First Friday, the readings of the coming Sunday Mass at of each month at 6 p.m. when Mass is celebrated at 5:30 p.m. Holy Cross Church on alternate Tuesdays ▶ St. Ann Church has charismatic prayer ▶ St. Joseph Church has a full day of at 7 p.m. Meetings are in Spanish. in Marian Hall on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Eucharistic Adoration every Tuesday beginning with Holy Mass at 6:30 a.m. World Apostolate of Fatima The World Apostolate of Fatima meets Cursillo Prayer Group and concluding with Benediction at 6 p.m. The Cursillo movement hosts a Spanish in the chapel at Holy Cross Church on prayer meeting in the St. Michael Chapel Knights of Columbus Tuesdays at 5 p.m. at St. Joseph Church on the last Monday Holy Cross Council 6482 meets at Holy of every month at 7 p.m. St. Joseph High School Cross Church’s McAlpin Hall on the first 50-year celebration and third Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. Cursillo Ultreya Bishop Bevard will join Father Mark, Cursillo members meet for Ultreya in the St. Patrick Youth Ministry SJHS Principal, and guests for dinner on Cursillo office at St. Joseph Church on Come be with us and enjoy a variety of Saturday, December 6, marking the 50th Thursdays after the 7 p.m. Mass. Meetings exciting activities as St. Patrick parents Anniversary of SJHS in Mt. Pleasant. Call are in Spanish. and youths mix work and play to spread 340.692.2005 for details. 24 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com St. John Calendar ¡Buenas Noticias!

Last year's Keys and Sword co-honoree, Addie Ottley, monitors the Deacon and Tati Vasquez together after Mass at the Cathedral audio cast of 10:30 a.m. Mass at the Cathedral. Co-honoree was Mr. of Sts. Peter and Paul. Jean Dragin (not pictured). Eventos Mensuales All-night Vigil Our Lady of Mount Carmel holds an all-night vigil on the first • Oración Carismática Las oraciones en español se Friday of each month after the 7 p.m. Mass. ofrecen en el Salón de Hospitalidad de la Catedral de San Pedro y san Pablo los lunes a las 6 p.m. Charismatic Prayer Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church hosts an evening of • La Ultreya Los jueves después de la misa de las 7 p.m. los charismatic prayer on Thursdays at 7 p.m. cursillistas tienen su Ultreta. Las reunions en el trailer, en la oficina del Movimiento de Cursillos, y son en español. Eucharistic Adoration Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church has Exposition of the • Legión de María El presidium hispano María, Arca de la Blessed Sacrament and Benediction on Thursdays from 7:30 a.m. Alianza se reúne en el Salón de Hospitalidad de la Catedral de to 7 p.m. San Pedro y San Pablo los domingos a las 2 p.m.

Free Meals • Nueva Misa en Español La iglesia Nuestra Señora del Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church’s Kallaloo Kitchen: Food Carmen de la isla de Saint John está ofreciendo una misa en for the Soul feeds the needy in the parish’s Guadalupe Hall on español todos los domingos a las 6 pm .El celebrante oficial Mondays and Fridays at noon. Volunteers are welcomed. es el padre Eduardo Ortiz Santiago, párroco de la comunidad hispana de la catedral. Legion of Mary Presidium Mary, Queen of Angels, meets in the Guadalupe Hall • Oración y Reflexión Se reza el Santo Rosario y se of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church on Tuesdays at 6 p.m. comparten las reflexiones de las lecturas del domingo siguiente, en la iglesia de Holy Cross los martes alternados a Men’s Fellowship las 7 p.m. Las reuniones son en español. Men’s Fellowship meets the first and third Sunday of each month. • Rosario por los no nacidos La iglesia de San José Spanish Mass invita a los rosarios bilingües en español e inglés por los no Our Lady of Mount Carmel has Spanish Mass at 6 p.m. Sundays. nacidos todos los viernes a la 6 p.m.

Sunday Mass in Coral Bay • Santo Niño En la iglesia de San José se rezan las Mass is celebrated each Sunday at 12:30 p.m. at the John’s Folly devociones del Santo Niño (el Santo Niño Jesús) los primeros Learning Center in Coral Bay. For questions or transportation, sábados de cada mes a las 4:30 p.m. Durante este tiempo se call the church office at 776.6339. ofrecen confesiones. 25 Visit the website of the Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands at www.catholicvi.com

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26 The Catholic Islander / December 2014 / www.catholicvi.com John Thomas Memorial Chapel Serving the U. S. Virgin Islands for over 40 years!

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