Vol. XVI, No. II, February 2010 A Tool for Evangelization, Catechesis and Apologetics I did not come to be served, but to serve. Matthew 20:28 The cat and the silo: an image of God’s merciful message

By Fr. Michael Miller his heart and, abusing his freedom, disobeyed 2010 God’s command…. He chose himself over and Fund-Raising While I was walking against God, against the requirements of his around the farm with my creaturely status and therefore against his own goal: $50,000 dad, he told me how he had good.” (CCC, nn. 397, 398) This left man been working near the silo helpless and unable to get out of the situation: when he heard a cat meow- “Closed in the darkness, it was necessary to ing desperately. He finally bring us the light; captives, we awaited a tracked it down to the silo. Savior; prisoners, help; slaves a liberator.” (St. Since the silo was no longer Gregory of Nyssa, CCC, n. 457) There was in use, he had put the bot- nothing he could do but cry for help and hope Fr. Miller tom two doors in place to that it would come. keep out animals. The cat, Each Sunday we profess the joyful truth no doubt, saw these as mere obstacles to the that this hope was fulfilled: “For us men and possible delight inside. Despite having the for our salvation He came down from Heaven; whole farm on which to hunt in addition to the by the power of the Holy Spirit He was born food already supplied, the cat climbed the of the Virgin Mary and became man.” Every doors and jumped in the silo. Once inside, the person participates in this great drama of sal- cat realized that it could not get out; the open vation. We all have been created by the same door was too high and the walls too smooth. God for the same purpose: to know and to love The only thing left to do was cry for help and Him, Who first loved us. We all face the same hope that it would come. Fortunately, my dad basic challenges: do we believe in Him, and heard its cry and opened the bottom door. The do we trust Him? Do we trust Him enough to cat jumped out of its would-be tomb and believe that His commandments are not limits

scampered off alive and free. Dr.Photo by Bonnabeau Raymond on our freedom, but are rather the only way in It is a good image of the drama of the spir- “Lord, have mercy!” which we can truly be free? Do we understand itual life. Adam and Eve had the whole garden we cry out during Lent. This ourselves well enough to know that because from which to eat and, unlike the cat, under- picture of the Twelfth Station of we still carry the wounds of original sin, we stood the obstacle put before the tree of the the Cross is taken from Nativity sometimes desire things that will harm us knowledge of good and evil, which “symboli- Church in St. Paul. rather than make us happy? cally evokes the insurmountable limits that “Ignorance of the fact that man has a commandment, which required the response MPLS. MN man, being a creature, must freely recognize wounded nature inclined to evil gives rise to

NON-PROFIT and respect with trust.” (Catechism of the of obedience. But as we know, “Man, tempted ORGANIZATION PERMIT NO. 3452 U.S. POSTAGE PAID U.S. POSTAGE Catholic Church, n. 396) The obstacle was a by the devil, let his trust in his Creator die in Cat in the Silo continued page 4 Thomas Monaghan: Dr. Ralph McInerny: A man of faith in action May his soul rest in peace By John Sondag By John Sondag You’ve probably heard that say- ing of life being a huge tapestry, and [Editor’s note: “The Catholic each of us is one of a variety of Servant” recently interviewed threads that is interconnected with Thomas Monaghan when he visit- many other threads. Only at the end ed the Twin Cities. He is the of the world will we be able to see founder and former owner of the magnificent tapestry in its full Domino’s Pizza, and in recent color. years, he has devoted his life to If I were going to make a predic- many enterprises of spreading tion, I think I could safely bet one of and teaching the Catholic Faith. the boldly colored threads that He is currently the Chancellor of would be woven throughout a large Ave Maria University in portion of that fabric would be the Florida.] life of Ralph McInerny, Ph.D., of the University of Notre Dame. “The Catholic Servant”: We He just died from cancer on print about 45,000 copies of our

Photo courtesy Ethics and Culture of Notre Dame Center for January 29 at the age of 80. He had paper each month. That’s Dr. Ralph McInerny recently retired from a 54-year about number of people who career of teaching philosophy at Notre fill a football stadium. If you Dame. He grew up in South Minneapolis in St. Helena Parish, where had five minutes, as a seasoned I have worked for the past 28 years. Catholic who has promoted the Even though I may have had only about ten conversations with Faith, to give a message to a Ralph, I can say I knew him because I know his brother Dr. Dennis football stadium of people, McInerny quite well, and Dennis had many “Ralph” stories. Of what would it be? course, there were others who knew Ralph well, like Bob McDonald Monaghan continued page 9 Thomas Monaghan McInerny continued page 10 TheThe CatholicCatholic ServantServant Fund-RaisingFund-Raising GoalGoal forfor 2010:2010: $50,000 $50,000 The Catholic Servant Box 24142 P.O. Minneapolis, MN 55424 PleasePlease helphelp supportsupport ““TheThe CatholicCatholic ServantServant”” throughthrough giftsgifts andand fundraisersfundraisers Page 2 The Catholic Servant February, 2010 Bringing the Faith into the home A Minnesota Spring can teach parents much about raising their children By Dia Boyle Because it is not long-lived, it garden’s plants can, at last, be painful playground battles Pray for patience, and think is no longer winter snow, but put into the earth. By June the result from the desire to reach spring! Spring is spring snow! Early spring in days, though still often chilly out to those outside of his own in the air? It Minnesota is marked by slush, enough to keep us from banish- family. A teenager’s intoler- Dia Boyle is a wife, free- is still Feb- damp raw wind, and the sound ing our sweaters to the backs of ance of our rules betrays an lance speaker, and writer from ruary and of water running in the gutters. our closets, are long and filled increasing ability to think for St. Paul, Minnesota. Minnesota Although by early April we with light. If we have the himself. These stages are diffi- is hardly may ache for flowers and green patience to enjoy it, and the cult for parents and must be This article was funded by the “mud-lus- grass, we make do instead with eyes to recognize its signs, we faced with wisdom and St. Joseph the Worker Chair of cious and green buds on shrubs and bush- will see that springtime in patience and prayer, but they Writing sponsored by an anony- puddle- es, and little yellow-green tips Minnesota is not short and are also evidence that our chil- mous patron. wonderful.” of crocuses and daffodils, pok- fleeting, but long and rich and dren are doing what they are Boyle Ice-bound, ing up around dirty ice piles full of beautiful promises. created to do: become mature frigid, and miserable, rather. and through soggy piles of last The patience that we learn and fruitful sons and daughters Yet just around the corner is a fall’s leaves. As April gives from Minnesota seasons will of God. long and beautiful springtime. way to May we dream of warm serve us well as we raise our “Ha!” you will object. In sunshine, but know that the children. Like sloppy slush and Minnesota we barely have puddles and umbrellas are April blizzards, the difficult spring at all: snow is common essential to a successful sum- phases and stages of childhood in April, tender plants can’t be mer late on. must not be seen as evils, but put in the earth until the end of Slow but sure, however, as promises of progress May. By late June the progress is made. Tulips even- towards the goal: maturity! A mosquitoes are out in force, tually dare to bloom. After baby’s clinginess is a sign that and what little spring we had is dropping every imaginable he can now distinguish his gone. pollen-producing and drain- mother from the masses. A tod- I beg to differ. If spring is clogging item into our yards, dler’s tantrums are an expres- defined by tulips and green the trees do finally leaf out. sion of her free will and yearn- grass, warm sunny days, and The lawns green up, and the ing for independence. A child’s leafy trees then, yes, our spring is late and very short. But to define spring in such a way is to miss it almost altogether. Spring is the death of winter and the preparation for the lush abundance of summer. As such, it begins in March when there is as much daylight as darkness, and the sun is strong enough to melt the snow. What does it matter that snow may still be falling in abundance?

The Catholic

“The Catholic Servant” is a tool for evangelization, cat- echesis and apologetics. Published monthly, it is dis- tributed free through parishes and through paid subscriptions ($15 per year). Board of Directors: Don Fier Fr. Joseph Johnson Daniel J. Kelly Patrick Shannon John Sondag Publisher/Editor: John Sondag Editorial Readers: Patrick Shannon Greg Smisek Don Fier Bookkeeper: Timothy Fritz Circulation: Thea Melillo Advertising Melissa Lenzmeier Phone: 612-916-5258 [email protected] Graphic Design Jodi Sandell [email protected] Our mailing address is: The Catholic Servant P.O. Box 24142 Minneapolis, MN 55424 February, 2010 The Catholic Servant Page 3 Do Catholics have a new interest in the neglected doctrine of Purgatory By Dale Ahlquist book explanation of Purgatory, the revelation of Jesus Christ.” er, dead for three decades. She natural means. and well worth reading, but (I Peter 1:6-7) reproaches him for his disso- The point is clear that these Purgatory let’s talk about these two newer “Beloved, do not be sur- lute life and begs him to have souls in Purgatory are suffer- is making a books. prised at the fiery ordeal which Masses said in her name. Then ing; they are being purified of comeback. G.K. Chesterton once said comes upon you to reprove she lays her hand on his sleeve, the sins that still separate them Not that it that he never realized how you, as though something leaving an indelible burn mark, from God. But paradoxically, ever went much sense Christianity made strange were happening to you. and departs…” And yet, the they are also rejoicing. They away. But for until the anti-Christian writers But rejoice in so far as you book, written by a Catholic are experiencing both God’s the past few pointed it out to him. Along the share Christ’s sufferings, that psychologist from Denmark, is justice and His mercy at the decades, same lines, I never realized you may also rejoice and be a no-nonsense account of well- same time. “The greatest suf- even for the how Biblical was Catholicism glad when His glory is documented cases of visita- fering,” says St. Faustina, who past few cen- until I examined the claims of revealed.” (I Peter 4:12-13) tions from dead souls. We learn was also visited by souls from Ahlquist turies, the anti-Catholics who had “Those whom I love, I about St. Thomas Aquinas Purgatory, “comes from long- Christians have not thought as assured me that the Catholic reprove and chasten; so be being visited from Purgatory ing for God.” In spite of “the much about Purgatory as they Church contradicted the Bible. zealous and repent.” (Rev. by his dead sister, the visions of pain of loss,” there is a joy that did before—and they have What a shock that the Bible 3:19) Purgatory afforded to St. comes from experiencing talked about it even less. I will should turn out to be such a Purgatory is a temporary Catherine of Genoa and God’s love as it draws each not take this opportunity to dis- thoroughly Catholic document. state. It is not an eternal alter- Blessed Catherine Emmerich, soul closer to Himself. Van den cuss the history of why And once we understand the native for those who were too and the encounters that St. Aardweg writes: “God appears Purgatory was forgotten, but reason and reality of Purgatory, good for Hell, but not good Padre Pio had with souls from as the loving Father Who can- rather the news that it is being it is amazing how many refer- enough for Heaven. It is the Purgatory. He once told the not but cleanse His impure remembered. ences to it suddenly appear last stop before Paradise for priest who was his caretaker child precisely because He Two new books from TAN throughout the Scriptures. those whose souls are indeed that in spite of the hundreds of wants to make it unimaginably Books and St. Benedict Press Besides the ones that should be saved. Because Purgatory is pilgrims who made their way happy.” not only confirm the surging (painfully) obvious, like Matt. not a destination, Salza’s book each day to the monastery at And then there is the interest in Purgatory, but fill an 12:32; Luke 12: 47-48, I Cor. makes the very good point that San Giovanni Rotondo “there strange and surprising role that important need in explaining it 10:3-17, II Cor. 5:10 (look we are not trying to get into were more souls of the dead we play on this side of the veil. to Catholics and non-Catholics them up), there are lots of other Purgatory. We should be setting who come up that road than Besides looking after our own who have never been educated verses that I have always our sights and all our hopes on souls of the living.” souls right now, we are called about this essential doctrine of known but never really thought Heaven, on perfect communion The book also includes on to pray for the souls in the Faith. about before (and some that I with God. We’re not supposed descriptions and photographs Purgatory. This is an act of The first is The Biblical did not know—I guess they to aim low. of items from the “Museum of charity. And praying for the Basis for Purgatory by John slipped by me somehow). For As for the second book, Purgatory” in the Church of the dead has the salubrious effect Salza and the second is Hungry instance: Hungry Souls, the subtitle is an Sacred Heart of Suffrage in of making our own souls better Souls by Gerard J.M. van den “In this you rejoice, though attention-grabber: Rome: missals and holy texts prepared for death, and for Aardweg. I may as well men- now for a little while you may Supernatural Visits, Messages, with burnt handprints and fin- eternal life. tion another book from TAN have to suffer various trials, so and Warnings from Purgatory. gerprints, the sleeve with the St. Paul tells us to weep Books, a reprint called Charity that the genuineness of your The cover blurb is rather sensa- burnt handprint mentioned with those who weep and for the Suffering Souls, written faith, more precious than gold tional, even spine-tingling: above, and similar things. rejoice with those who rejoice. over a hundred years ago, by a which though perishable is “After a week of hearing ghost- These relics have been authen- We usually take this to mean Minnesota priest named Father tested by fire, may redound to ly noises, a man is visited in his ticated, and in every case, the expressing different kinds of John Nageleisen. It is a text- praise and glory and honor at home by the spirit of his moth- physical effects they display sympathy according to the dif- have not been reproducible by ferent kinds of emotions and experiences of our friends and neighbors. But we actually do both things at once when we pray for the souls in Purgatory. We suffer with them and rejoice with them as they expe- rience what Chesterton calls “the fiery love of God.”

Dale Ahlquist is President of the American Chesterton Society and host of the EWTN series “G.K. Chesterton: The Apostle of Common Sense.”

This article was funded by the St. Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Chair of Writing sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Raymond and Mary Bonnabeau. Page 4 The Catholic Servant February, 2010 Question and Answer Why are Lutherans “re-confirmed” when received into the Catholic Church? By Fr. Paul A. La Fontaine Confirmation in the Latin (Western) Since Lutherans do not have validly Catholic Church. Rite. However, in danger of death or ordained priests or bishops, the only Sacraments are necessary for salva- Question: My with the bishop’s delegation, a priest sacraments they can validly administer tion. People have a right to receive valid friend was a may be an extraordinary minister of are Baptism and Matrimony. sacraments. This is why the Church Lutheran and Confirmation. In order for a man to be validly takes matters like validity and Church became Catholic, Deacons, priests, and bishops are ordained, he must be ordained by a unity so seriously. It is dangerous to and he had to be ordinary ministers of Holy validly ordained bishop who was stray from the “One Flock and the One re-confirmed. How Communion. However, in case of ordained by a validly ordained bishop Shepherd.” come? I thought he necessity, laypeople can be appointed as and so on all the way back to the That being said, there is at least par- had already been extraordinary ministers of Communion. Apostles. This is called apostolic suc- tial communion among Catholics and confirmed in the The only minister of the Holy Eucharist cession. With divine authority, the Protestants, and for that we are grateful. Lutheran church. (who is the one who consecrates the Catholic Church has determined that They do have some of the means of sal- Fr. Paul Answer: Every bread and wine) is a priest or bishop. Lutherans and other Protestants broke vation. As St. Augustine said, God La Fontaine sacrament has a min- There are no extraordinary ministers of from apostolic succession at the time of never refuses His grace to those who do ister—someone to administer that the Holy Eucharist. the Reformation. Even if they were now the best they can in the circumstances in sacrament to someone else. The various Priests and bishops are the only min- to use the approved rites of ordination which they find themselves. With good sacraments differ as to who can admin- isters of the sacrament of Penance and and had the right intentions when doing will and the help of the Holy Spirit, we ister them. the Anointing of the Sick, and bishops so, their ordinations would still be continue to work with each other to Deacons, priests, and bishops are are the ordinary ministers of Holy invalid because the chain of apostolic spread the Gospel and to overcome the ordinary ministers of Baptism. Orders. succession remains broken among hurtful things that have kept us apart in However, when the person to be bap- Only baptized Christian laypeople them. That is why Protestant clergy who the past. tized is in danger of death, anyone can can be ministers of Matrimony. As bride wish to continue the ministry of Word baptize, even a non-believer, as long as and groom, they administer the sacra- and Sacrament are re-ordained, or, Fr. Paul La Fontaine, M.A., is pastor he or she intends to do whatever the ment to each other. No one in Holy rather, receive the sacrament of Holy of St. Charles Borromeo Church, Church does by Baptism. A layperson Orders can administer or receive the Orders validly for the first time, after Minneapolis, Minn. can also be designated by the Bishop to sacrament of Matrimony validly. they are admitted to full communion baptize in certain other cases, of neces- It is evident from this list that most with the Catholic Church, and it is also This article was funded by the St. Teresa sity, such as the unavailability of a dea- of the sacraments require the minister to why Lutheran and other Protestant of Avila Chair of Writing sponspored by an con, priest, or bishop for a long time. be a person who has validly received laypeople are re-confirmed, or, rather, anonymous patron. This situation is often found in remote the sacrament of Holy Orders. receive the sacrament of Confirmation mission territories. Confirmation is one of those sacra- validly for the first time, after they are Bishops are the ordinary ministers of ments. admitted to full communion with the

get out by ourselves? Do we we may emerge alive and free? Cat in the Silo have the sense to say with the continued from page 1 psalmist: “Out of the depths I Fr. Michael Miller is pastor serious errors in the areas of call to You, LORD; Lord hear of St. Michael's Church and St. education, politics, social my cry! May Your ears be Mary's Church in Stillwater, action, and morals.” (CCC, n. attentive to my cry for mercy.” Minnesota. 407) Do we understand that we (Ps. 130:1-2)? And do we have cannot get to Heaven on our the confidence in God’s love This article was funded by the own, and that when we jump for us, that He will open the St. Thomas Aquinas Chair of into the silo of sin we cannot door of that spiritual tomb that Writing sponspored by an anony- mous patron. Have questions about your vocation? Call Fr. Peter Williams, Vocations Director Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis 651-962-6892 [email protected] Advertisement sponsored by the Serra Club of Midway St. Paul February, 2010 The Catholic Servant Page 5 Family Life Prolife Across America's Media Mission—a national Billboard Campaign! By Mary Ann Kuharski to rejoice at how God can use and a small and committed connecting callers seeking told. And I want to say, from the even a simple billboard or staff comprised of Mary and pregnancy services, adoption bottom of my heart, “thank Who would radio message to penetrate Dave Standing, Mary Madison, information, or post-abortion you” for saving mine. ever dream hearts and save lives! Pat Archambault, and the assistance. Eternally grateful, that a simple The organization began in Flemings, who worked tireless- So often, the PROLIFE CH, Minnesota billboard or 1989 as PROLIFE MINNESO- ly for seven years before mov- Across AMERICA billboards Not long ago, while attend- radio message TA, a statewide group that was ing on to pursue other avenues, may be the only visible sign of ing a pro-life rally, a woman could change inspired during a dinner table PROLIFE MINNESOTA hope and support to someone handed me a crumpled up piece someone’s conversation between Mike launched its first Billboard on the brink of an abortion of paper and asked me to read it heart on the and Dorothy Fleming and my Campaign in 1990 with 42 bill- decision. later. I stuffed it into my pock- issue of abor- husband John and me. boards in Minnesota. Recently a young college et until late that evening when I Kuharski tion? And When I initially approached Two weeks after the first ad woman made an adoption plan returned home. who would Father Mark Dosh about “a appeared, we received a call for her baby with the guidance When I unfolded the believe it would actually save a pro-life organization which from a pro-life clinic director and assistance she received unsigned note I found this mes- baby’s life? Well, that is exact- would focus entirely on mass in St. Paul: “Your billboard from PROLIFE Across AMER- sage, which really was not ly what PROLIFE Across media education,” he was sup- saved a baby’s life. A woman ICA. meant for me alone, but for AMERICA and its Media portive and enthusiastic. “We who was scheduled for an A father recently called and every person who ever prayed Mission is all about, and thanks need all kinds of pro-life abortion came in for help and said, “We were convinced that or supported this Media to the prayers and support of groups that will reach the pub- confided she couldn’t drive by our daughter should have an Mission, as we like to call it. many, the organization recently lic. The more the better!” he that billboard every day on her abortion, but seeing those bill- She wrote: celebrated its 20th Anniversary. said. way home from work and go boards just tore at our heart- Every billboard statement In commemoration of the Since then, I’ve come to through with the abortion.” strings. We couldn’t let her go for life pulls me a little further January 22, 1973, Roe v. Wade believe that pro-lifers must The Holy Spirit can use any through with it.” (The parents out of a dark pit and into the Supreme Court abortion deci- specialize, much like physi- means to touch a heart! and daughter were on their way light. I had two abortions sion and in honor of PROLIFE cians, lawyers, and educators. What began 20 years ago as to the abortion clinic.) (years ago) and your work Across AMERICA’s 20 years We need groups that concen- PROLIFE MINNESOTA with Pope John Paul II, in his restores my confidence that of existence, Auxiliary Bishop trate on informing public offi- 42 billboards in Minnesota encyclical letter Evangelium someone cared about my Lee Piché recently offered a cials, groups to lobby for life, grew and expanded, and its Vitae (“The Gospel of Life”), babies and someone cares special Mass at St. Charles groups to give aid to the preg- name was changed to PRO- urges us to create an atmo- about me. Thank you and God Borromeo Church in northeast nant mother and child, groups LIFE Across AMERICA in sphere of life and a culture of bless you! Minneapolis. Bishop Piché to help those in need of post- 1997. Last year alone, this love. As people of faith, we concelebrated the Mass with abortion assistance, groups to growing billboard outreach The following letter recent- believe in the power of God’s Father Paul LaFontaine, Pastor work in the political and legal sponsored 6,500 billboards in a ly sent to PROLIFE Across love and mercy. It is humbling of St. Charles Borromeo in St. field, groups to go into the total of 41 states, in addition to AMERICA says it best (the indeed, to see how He can use Anthony; Father Joseph schools to reach young people, airing thousands of radio ads. writer’s identity remains confi- even the most reluctant and Johnson, Rector of the and groups to offer alternatives All this was made possible dential): unlikely of servants, such as a Cathedral of St. Paul; Father and assistance through mass because of the prayers and gen- Initially, I found my preg- mother of thirteen who has James Reidy, retired college media education. erosity of supporters. nancy to be devastating. Not absolutely no artistic advertis- English Professor and It was a “kitchen table” PROLIFE Across only did I consider abortion; I ing experience or expertise— Advisory Board Member; and effort, launched after the birth AMERICA’s focus remains the had appointments made. and the zeal and commitment Father Mark Dosh, Pastor of St. of my youngest son Joseph, at same—education through the But every time I drove past of many—to offer kindness John the Baptist Church in the home of Mrs. Mikki media—reaching people who one of your signs, I’d think, and help to those in need. Excelsior and Chairman of the Gottwalt who graciously host- may not be reached in any “What if …? What if I abort the PROLIFE Across AMERI- Board of PROLIFE Across ed a Christmas Tea for approx- other way with life-saving baby and spend the rest of my CA is a 501(c)(3) organiza- AMERICA. imately 50 pro-life friends. messages. Every ad features an life regretting it? … Will pass- tion—totally educational, non- It is fitting to look back and Thanks to our supporters 800 Hotline for Help number, ing your billboard constantly profit, and non-political. remind me of the baby I didn’t have?” Mary Ann Kuharski, is a Ultimately, I found I could- homemaker and mother of 13 n’t ignore the billboards that (ages 20-40), six of whom came seemed to be everywhere. My by adoption and are of mixed baby is six months old now, and races, some with special needs. brings us the greatest joy. I She is author of Raising don’t know exactly how much it Catholic Children and costs to continue your cam- Parenting With Prayer (OSV paign, but whatever the cost, Press), and Building a Legacy it’s worth it. of Love (Faith Publishing). You really do save children every day, even if you are never

TRIDENTINE MASS SCHEDULE FOR SOUTH ST. PAUL Holy Trinity Church: 749 Sixth Ave South, South St. Paul. PH: 651-455-1302 Monday & Wednesday, 5:15 pm; Friday, (except First Fridays)12:00 noon St. Augustine Church: 408 Third Street North, South St. Paul. PH: 651-451-1212 Tuesday & Thursday, 8:00 am; Sunday, 11:30 am First Friday & Holy Days, 7:30 am Page 6 The Catholic Servant February, 2010 “AN“AN EVENINGEVENING AFFIRMINGAFFIRMING HUMANHUMAN LIFELIFE ANDAND THETHE FFAMILAMILY”Y” with Most Rev. Robert Finn, D.D., Bishop of Kansas City - St. Joseph Diocese

Tuesday, March 16, 2010 Rowan Hall The Church of St. Helena, 3204 East 43rd St., Minneapolis, MN 55406

6:00 P.M. - Social 7:00 P.M. - Catered Dinner

Bishop Robert Finn 8:00 P.M. - Entertainment and talk by Bishop Finn

Tickets are $25.00 per person and must be purchased by 12:00 Noon by Friday, March 12th.

Complimentary tickets are available for those who have difficulty payinby calling 612-729-7321.

ATTN: Parents, godparents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, friends, parishioners, teachers, coaches, neighbors, Knights of Columbus and Serrans...

It takes courage to follow Jesus. Do you know a young man who’s got what it takes? Please invite him and his friends to accompany you. TEAM VIANNEY EVENTS March 4th, April 8th, May 6th

Catholic high school to college- age men ( 9th grade and up) meet for pizza, hear a short, dynamic talk on our Catholic faith, attend Benediction and participate in an energetic Mass with college seminarians and university students

DEDICATION. LEADERSHIP. VOCATION.

Where: St. John Vianney Seminary, University of St. Thomas (St. Paul campus) For more information, contact SJV at 651-962-6825 or [email protected] Help him join the Team. Christ’s Team. February, 2010 The Catholic Servant Page 7

AALFA Family Clinic 4465 White Bear Parkway White Bear Lake, MN 55110 phone: 651-653-0062 fax: 651-653-0288 www.aalfafamily.com

Lenten Morning of Reflection Our doctors are: Saturday, February 20th 2010 • Dr. Paul Spencer, D.O., Family Practice/OB 9:00am-Noon • Dr. Mary Paquette, M.D., Family Practice/OB “Sursum Corda—Praying the Mass with • Dr. Matthew Paquette, M.D., Internist the Heart of Jesus Christ” • Cheryl McKee, P.A.-C, Physicians Assistant • Dr. Kathleen Kobbermann, M.D., Family Practice/OB As a physician, I enjoy taking care of families and providing a wide range of care at every stage of life. I have special interests in preventive care for women and children, obstetrics, infertility and abnormal cycle management. Dr. Kobbermann joined AALFA Family Clinic in December of 2008 The hospitals we are affiliated with are: Rev. Father John Paul Erickson • St. John's Hospital • St. Joseph's Hospital Director of the Archdiocesan Office of Worship • United Hospital • Children's Hospital, St. Paul Mass at 9:00 a.m. followed by Conferences Confessions available Clinic Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday Complimentary Lunch provided Urgent Care: We offer same day appointments during clinic hours. After Hours: Our doctors are on-call through our answering service. St. Olaf Catholic Church 215 South 8th Street, Minneapolis, MN. All are welcome!

Promise Yourself A Visit To The Shrine Of Our Lady Of Guadalupe

The Easter Season is a perfect time to make a pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Special Events For Lent And Easter Lady of Guadalupe in nearby La Crosse, Wisconsin. Ash Wednesday: February 17 4:00 pm: Procession from Pilgrim Center to Stations of the Cross; 5:30 pm: Holy Mass with distribution In just a short time, you will be trans- of ashes; 6:30 pm: Culina Mariana Soup Supper ported to a place of beauty, grace and (Soup supper registration required $5.00) peace. Day of Recollection: Saturday March 27 Enjoy over one hundred unspoiled 9:30 am to 3:00 pm acres dedicated to your spiritual needs. Enjoy a spiritual day of recollection with Father There are devotional areas, an inspiring Louis Maximilian, F. I. (Registration Required) Stations of the Cross, outdoor Rosary Palm Sunday: March 28 Walk, Our Mother of Good Counsel Regular Mass Schedule Votive Candle Chapel and stunning 2:00 pm Palm Sunday Reenactment and Procession Memorial to the Unborn. from Shrine Church to Stations of the Cross with live donkey. (A Children’s Favorite) Atop our majestic bluff, you will find Easter Sunday: April 4 the Shrine Church, the “Heart of the Regular Mass Schedule Special Sunday Brunch Shrine.” 9:00 am – 2:00 pm at Culina Mariana (Shrine Restaurant) Reservations Recommended. Be one of the first to discover this treasure near the Mississippi River in Coming Saturday, June 26 La Crosse. All Day Conference Msgr. Eduardo Chávez Sánchez For information on individual pilgrimages Postulator for the Cause of the Canonization of St. Juan Diego. or pilgrimage for organized groups, Details and Registration Form on our please call 608 782 5440. website. Visit us online at guadalupeshrine.org

Open 9am to 4pm - Holy Mass at 11 am Monday through Saturday and 1:00 pm on Sunday - Traditional Latin Mass Sunday at 9:30 am. Culina Mariana restaurant with Sunday Brunch ( 9am - 2pm reservations recommended) and Flores Mariae gift shop are on the premises

5250 Justin Road, La Crosse, WI 54601. The Shrine is approximately 6 miles south of downtown La Crosse. From the Twin Cities area stay on I-90 to Exit 3A (Downtown Exit) and drive south. The road name changes, but keep driving south and watch for signs for Hwys 14/61. 14/61 turns left (East). Justin Road is the third road on the right. Take Justin road south until you see the Shrine sign on the right. Page 8 The Catholic Servant February, 2010 Uncovering one of the root causes for abortion in today’s society By Deacon Stephen most sickening, Catholics for a wrong because celibate Church abortion becomes an easy solu- They debated about what to do. Najarian, M.D. Free Choice, have changed the officials want to deny couples tion. It all appears logical and Some wanted to repair the old language of this grisly business their rights. Contraception, reasonable once one accepts crucifix, others wanted to make [Editor’s to make it acceptable, using whether by pill, patch, injec- the distortion of Christian love a replica of the original. They Note: This is words like “choice” or “repro- tion, devices, or barrier meth- and marriage brought about by finally came to a solution. In a transcript ductive freedom.” But the real- ods, or intentional sterilization, contraception. We then violate the sanctuary of the restored of a homily ity remains the same, the grue- is a grave moral evil because it the very nature stamped in us Church, we can see to this day given at the some truth is unchanged. makes a lie out of love. by the Creator, and in denying that crucifix, just as they found Church of St. Babies are being scalded to Just think about it for a His image in us, we deny God it, but with this inscription: Charles death with concentrated salt moment. God has created us Himself. This is why contra- “You are My arms.” Borromeo on solutions, torn apart limb by out of love. We are made in His ception is such a grave evil, Today, we are invited to be January 17, limb, their little skulls crushed. image to look and act like God. and why its use breaks our rela- the arms of Christ to a world 2010, the If we are sickened by this, so And so we are called to love tionship, our “communion” that needs His healing touch; Deacon Second we should be. The Guardian like God, freely, totally, with- with Christ and His Body the the mouth of Christ to proclaim Najarian Sunday in Angels of these little ones must out reservation, without hold- Church. This is why the use of that problems are solved by Ordinary surely plead in horror before ing back. The perfect image of contraception prevents us from choosing life, not death; and Time.] our Heavenly Father. this is Jesus Christ, the Son, the worthily receiving Holy we are invited to be the loving On December 7, 1941, a The townspeople living by Word, Love Incarnate. He gave Communion—the sign that we Body of Christ in a world that day President Franklin D. the Nazi concentration camps Himself totally in self-surren- are in right relationship with needs to see self-sacrifice Roosevelt said would “live in of World War II claimed they der to His beloved Bride, the Christ. It’s not about breaking instead of self-centeredness. infamy,” the Japanese empire did not know what went on. Church. Through the special rules; it’s about being dishonest The darkness of this present attacked our forces at Pearl They dismissed the smoke graces of Matrimony, husband with love. age will then be illumined by Harbor, and more than 3,000 coming out of the chimneys and wife are consecrated to live If we are ever to end the evil the shining light of Christ ris- brave service men and women from the ovens; they ignored out the mystery that shows us of abortion, we need to get seri- ing from our hearts. The lost their lives. I am still nearly the stench from the mounds of how Christ loves the Church. ous about ending contracep- despair of slavery to sin will brought to tears when I see pic- corpses. At the end of the war, The love between man and tion. Working through the fade away in the hope of a free- tures or the movies made of when it came to light that six wife, if it is to be genuine and courts and legislatures to limit dom that only Christ can give. those horrible events—sea- million innocent men, women, Christian, must, therefore, be or even eradicate abortion is a And the gloom of sadness will soned sailors and the finest and children had been killed, marked by total self-surrender. worthy pursuit, but will ulti- melt away in the incomparable flower of our youth cut down; the world declared that a holo- To intentionally separate love- mately fail if we don’t see con- joy of knowing and loving the scenes of the battleship caust of the innocents must making from life-making con- traception as the root of the source of life and love, the Arizona sinking with more never happen again. Sad to say, tradicts the meaning of love, problem. The solution, there- Lord Jesus Christ, both now than a thousand men trapped in the lessons of history have twists and perverts the meaning fore, is a moral and spiritual and for all eternity. their watery tomb. been too quickly forgotten. But of marriage, and denies the one—the radical conversion of This coming Friday marks we, unlike those German self-sacrificing of Christ that our minds, hearts, and wills to Deacon Najarian is in full- the 37th anniversary of another townspeople, will never be able spouses are meant to imitate. the person of Jesus Christ, and time diaconal ministry for the day that will surely live in to claim honestly that we did If it is possible to separate the desire to serve Him and Archdiocese of St. Paul and infamy, January 22, 1973, the not know what was going on life and love in marriage, then love Him in every aspect of our Minneapolis and is on the staff day that the highest court of with abortion. Yet most of us the purpose of marriage lives, without any exclusion. of the Church of St. Charles our beloved country, the land remain comfortable and com- becomes only pleasure or And so when others see us, Borromeo in Minneapolis. of the free and the home of the placent, with consciences that mutual satisfaction. Then sexu- hear us, and are touched by us, brave, declared the legal right are little disturbed. ality becomes an end in itself. they see Christ, hear Christ, This article was funded by the to murder human beings not How did it come to this? Let We can then see the sad conse- and are touched by Christ. St. John Mary Vianney Chair of yet born, declared that persons me suggest that one of the quences: sexual expression During World War II, a Writing sponsored by Leaflet developing in their mothers’ devil’s most brilliant tricks was outside marriage, between church in a small German vil- Missal in St. Paul. wombs were, in fact, not per- to come up with the greatest members of the same sex, pre- lage was virtually destroyed. sons, but the private property evil of our age: contraception. tending to be married through The townspeople poured of their mothers, who have the Why so evil? Because it has cohabitation, or so-called “gay through the rubble in hopes of sole right to choose the fate of seduced us by its appearance of marriage.” Children, then, are rebuilding someday. Within the their children not yet born. reasonableness, and because it seen as mistakes, a problem, ruins they found the church’s Since that fateful day, more is the parent of an incredible the unintended consequence of crucifix, a magnificent carving than 50 million innocent chil- array of evils, including our failed contraception, instead of of the crucified Lord, but dam- dren, at various stages of devel- present curse of abortion. the natural fruit of love. And so aged, with His arms missing. opment before birth, have been Why is contraception, in killed in ways that could only fact, such a grave evil? It’s not be described as inhumane, sav- wrong just because it’s against age, and barbaric. some Church rule. It’s not Organizations such as Planned wrong just because it’s artifi- Wills and Living Trusts Parenthood, the National cial—so are most antibiotics. If I asked most people for $10,000 from their Abortion Rights Action It’s not wrong because the expendable income to give to "The Catholic Servant," League, the National Bible says so—you won’t find they would wonder if I were serious. They just don't any mention there. It’s not Organization of Women, or have that kind of money. But, if I asked most peo- ple to leave $10,000 (or more) to "The Catholic Subscribe to Servant" in their will or living trust, they'd say "that's possible," because $10,000 can be a small The Catholic portion of many people's estate. So, I’m asking you to remember "The Catholic Servant" when you are making out your will or living trust. Spreading, explaining, and defending the Catholic Faith takes more than good will—it takes money to pay for printing, writing, postage, graphics, circulation efforts, and so forth. We rely on gifts to help us do our work, So please remember "The Catholic Servant." Of course, more importantly, it takes God's grace, so even if you can't remember our paper in your will, we would appreciate your prayers. Our legal title is "The Catholic Servant." Our address is 3204 East 43rd St., Minneapolis, MN 55406

Call 612-275-0431 for further information. February, 2010 The Catholic Servant Page 9 That was wonderful. I remem- Through speakers and by the people as possible get to nary. I did the math and over 70 Monaghan ber receiving Communion on chaplain they got inspired, and Heaven. The best way I know years, we will have over 4,000 continued from page 1 the tongue from the Holy by what other members were to do that is to help the Catholic priests ordained from Ave Father, and his blue eyes about doing, they got excited.... Church. The best way to help Maria. We will have 2,500 Mr. Monaghan: I’d say, six, eight inches from mine, I think there are 72 chapters the Catholic Church is through nuns teaching in Catholic “You’re all going to die. You’re and our eyes meeting. I’ll never right now, and they’re in the education. The most efficient schools. We will have 400 either going to go to Heaven or forget it. About an hour or so process of opening seven or part of education is higher edu- world-class theologians, you’re going to go to Hell. One after that it occurred to me that eight new ones. They have a cation. I started with helping because we have an outstand- is greater than anything you there ought to be an organiza- couple thousand leaders. To grade schools, high schools, ing doctorate program in theol- could imagine, one is worse tion like Legatus for Catholics. qualify for membership, you but it’s a limited thing, geo- ogy. We just have outstanding than anything you could imag- I knew it was the Holy Spirit. It have to have a company that graphically. A university could faculty. We will have 8,000 ine. One of the requirements to was a great idea. I thought has at least $5 million in annu- affect the whole country and teachers in Catholic schools, K get into Heaven is to die in about nothing else for the next al sales and at least 30 full time the whole world. through 12. We will have 1,500 sanctifying grace. So if you’ve two to three weeks. All the employees. You have to be in This country in the 40s and principals running Catholic got mortal sin on your soul, details in the way it worked are good standing with the Church, 50s, when I grew up, the schools. We will produce you better get to confession essentially the way I conceived and you have to be pro-life. Catholic Church was doing a 40,000 strong, Catholic mar- just as fast as you can, make a of it at that time. “The Catholic Servant”: little better. As a rule, Catholics riages. We would have more good confession, and don’t The idea is to help people I’m glad that you mentioned went to Mass on Sunday and than that, though, but a lot of commit any mortal sins. who are particularly influential pro-life, and I’m sure that Confession on Saturday. There our kids are marrying each “The Catholic Servant”: and visible to become better you have not stopped being were plenty of vocations. Most other. They tend to get married It’s no secret that you’ve Catholics. That’s the only pur- involved in the pro-life move- kids went to Catholic schools. right after they get out of been involved with many pose. There are no projects. ment. In your assessment, There was pretty much no school, then start having kids. I enterprises over the years. The projects are the members where and what has to be Catholic divorce. The most think the reason for that is our One in which you’ve distin- themselves. And the result of done to turn our country popular movies of the day were number two club on campus guished yourself has been that is that with their influence around with the pro-life “Going My Way,” number one (behind the pro-life club) is the Legatus, an organization and their leadership, they can movement? for years. And “The Bells of St. chastity club, which was which supports CEOs in have a big impact on many Mr. Monaghan: My Mary’s” and “The Song of founded by students. In 70 business to live out their people; more than the average belief—and I’ve been in this Bernadette.” Those were all years they would have had faith. Why did you start person. Plus, as they get more situation for many, many years, hits. And now of course it’s about 150,000 kids, many more Legatus, and is it still going involved in the Church, they and I’ve been approached by changed so much. My opinion of which will be priests and strong? usually use their leadership about every Catholic cause out on the reason why it’s changed nuns. They will have about Mr. Monaghan: Yes it is skills to help the Church more there—I obviously couldn’t is because of the dramatic 500,000 grandkids and count- still going strong, even though and maybe not so much secular help everybody, so I had to pri- change in education.... At the ing. And that’s just the tip of the economy is a little tough causes. So that’s the idea, the oritize. I came to the conclu- higher education level, it was the iceberg. The big payoff we right now.... I had the opportu- way it worked out. There are sion that the single greatest the Land O’ Lakes conference will have is the impact we will nity to go to Rome (in 1987) many tremendous stories— need was education. What I in 1967, where the presidents have on the 200-plus Catholic and attended the Mass with people who joined who were wanted to do with what God of the large Catholic universi- colleges around the country Pope John Paul II in his chapel. good Catholics but not on fire. gave me is to help as many ties got together and wanted to that have lost their way. Today, do something about the fact a lot of them are coming back. that they weren’t given the “The Catholic Servant”: respect they deserved because You have done many wonder- they were religious. So they ful things for the Church. turned their back on the Vatican How many other Thomas and hired dissident theolo- Monaghans should we have gians, and the other depart- in this country, if we really ments were going out of their wanted to make an incredible way to hire non-Catholics, impact on the Church? even atheists. It got to a point Mr. Monaghan: I think where Catholic higher educa- there are a lot of people that are tion was the worst thing you doing as much or more than could expose your children to. me. We were talking about my You were better off going to a interest in Legatus.... I always non-Catholic college. I think hoped I would be a role model that’s why we are in the mess for other people. To use the we’re in, and I think that’s the success God gave me—the way we have to bring it back. success people pay attention That’s why I started Ave Maria to—so when I talk about my University, so we can train the faith they take what I say seri- teachers to teach the teachers. ously. Religion isn’t something We plan to have an educa- for losers. I think any one per- tion department that is express- son can change the world. G.K. ly for training teachers to teach Chesterton, when they asked in Catholic schools—and we him what’s wrong with the will train the principals for world, he said, “I am.” Any one schools, too. I’ve found in my of us could say that. I’ve done own experience that if you only a fraction of what I could have a good principal, you have done. have a good school. We don’t have to build schools. We John Sondag is Director of already have the schools. We Religious Education at the just have to get the right leader- Church of St. Helena, ship. Minneapolis, and publisher of I have a 70-year vision for “The Catholic Servant.” Ave Maria. In 20 years we expect to have 5,500 students. This article was funded by the We get a lot of vocations. St. Benedict Chair of Writing spon- About 25% of our men go to sored by an anonymous patron. seminary, and about 15% of our women (enter religious life). And the men are really well-prepared to go into semi- Page 10 The Catholic Servant February, 2010 The Catholic Church is not stagnant but a growing and dynamic society By Fr. Paul A. La Fontaine bring a more fitting style to the most intend to take a clean sheet of paper and identity as Catholics: We face serious important thing we do as Christians. redesign the Church from scratch. new challenges from those who hate [Editor’s note: For a preview, go to www.usccb.org Rather we were supposed to take religion in general and Catholicism in This column made its /romanmissal. everything authentic that we already particular. At home, political forces way to my desk from New bishop appointments: These had, apply it to the contemporary situa- threaten to take away our right to fol- the weekly bulletin of began with Pope John Paul II and are tion, and keep moving and growing. low our consciences. Overseas, fanatics St. Charles Borromeo continuing with Pope Benedict XVI. This is leading to… are killing our brothers and sisters and Church, Minneapolis, They are men who are not afraid to act Concrete ecumenical results: A blowing up or burning down our whose pastor gives us like the spiritual fathers that they are, way has been found for Anglicans to churches and schools. If we are to sur- some food for thought even to the point of enforcing the laws enter into full communion with the vive, we must do everything we can in our relatively new of the Church and thereby helping us to Catholic Church while retaining their with God’s help to learn and live our year.] face up to our responsibilities. They own leaders and their liturgical tradi- faith as we strengthen the institutions Fr. Paul know this is necessary if we are going tions. There is a new willingness on the we have. We will not resort to the tac- La Fontaine Lately, there are a to grow more mature spiritually and be part of Eastern Orthodox Christians tics that are being used against us, but lot of signs of change prepared for eternal life. and the followers of the late traditional- as always we will strive to win others coming in the Church. Here at least is a Reclaiming our tradition without ist Archbishop Lefebvre to engage in for Christ by our courage and good partial list: turning back the clock: It is more and serious talks and study. Unprecedented example in strong faith, hope, and char- New translation of the Roman more clear that for too long both pro- things are happening. [Flash! This just ity. Missal: This is the book that is used in gressives and traditionalists thought in: for the first time in history, Eastern saying the Mass. It contains all the that Vatican II was a complete rupture Orthodox leaders are willing to sit Fr. Paul La Fontaine, M.A., is pas- prayers and instructions for celebrating with the Church’s past. To the progres- down and discuss the meaning of the tor of St. Charles Borromeo Church, the Eucharistic liturgy. It is a much sives, almost everything old was bad. primacy of the Bishop of Rome, “the Minneapolis, Minn. more literal translation from the official The traditionalists wanted almost first among the patriarchs.”] Benedict Latin than the one we are currently everything to go back to the way it was XVI is becoming the Pope of Christian This article was funded by the St. Anne using. It will sound very different from in the 19th century. But we are begin- unity. Chair of Writing sponsored by Leaflet what we have been used to, but it will ning to realize that the Council did not New willingness to assert our Missal in St. Paul.

their publication. dozen serious philosophical still teaching graduate courses scene.” McInerny And it was only last spring books and numerous essays. at Notre Dame and writing, Eternal rest grant unto him, continued from page 1 that Ralph lobbed one of his I remember Ralph explain- both of which he loved, some- O Lord, and let perpetual light final salvos, directed at the ing what it means to be a one asked, “Ralph, are you shine upon him. Amen. from the parish, who grew up University of Notre Dame, Catholic novelist. He said a thinking of retiring?” He with Ralph and let me know because it was honoring novel is usually trying to work quipped, “From what?” John Sondag is Director of about Ralph’s humor even in President Obama with an hon- through a problem in the story, I write about Ralph with a Religious Education at the his early years. orary doctorate, going directly which can be solved by such purpose. His life embodied Church of St. Helena, There also were two of his against the U.S. Bishops’ direc- principles as hedonism, utili- what it means for a layman in Minneapolis, and publisher of former graduate students tives about not honoring pro- tarianism, atheism, or maybe the Church to use his talents to “The Catholic Servant.” whom I have known over the abortion politicians. Catholic thought. The Catholic bring Christ to the world and years. One is Dr. Robert It was his brother Dennis novelist doesn’t have to write transform it into a culture that This article was funded by the Kennedy, who had Ralph as his who told me about Ralph’s about religious topics, but he opens the doors to truth, good- St. Francis de Sales Chair of doctoral advisor. I can remem- wife Connie (who died a few takes ordinary problems and ness, and beauty. He did it well, Writing sponspored by Jeff and ber Bob referring to Ralph’s years ago) who kept Ralph uses Catholic principles to with much humor and joy. Susan Pitman. lucid mind. The other person is organized. Dennis said that untangle the difficulty. As one of his sisters-in-law Dr. Laura Garcia, a convert to Connie would even pack But all of Ralph’s academic said, “I can hear St. Peter say- the Catholic Faith, who told Ralph’s luggage when he accomplishments don’t really ing, ‘Well done, Ralph, good how Ralph encouraged her as would travel to give a talk. Not capture him, at least the com- and faithful servant,’ and the she contemplated her decision only did she pack his clothes— plete persona of Ralph. He had two of them having fun with to become a Catholic. I think she would select the novels he a wit that was never-ending. I one-liners until the next he brought her a small gift would take along. remember one time when he McInerny arrives on the from Rome. Dennis also said that Ralph came to visit his brother Another connected person- probably only wrote a dozen Dennis who was working on a age is Ralph’s son Dan, who checks during his entire mar- history of St. Helena Parish in lived in Minneapolis for a short ried life—Connie took care of the offices where I work. I time while he was teaching it. I suppose that fits well with opened my office door and high school. He actually lived the stereotype of an “egg- there was Ralph. “Well, hello, in St. Helena Parish, so I was head,” but how could Ralph Ralph,” I said. “Good to see able to recruit him as a volun- have even accomplished so you.” He responded in kind. I teer catechist. I remember ask- much by himself? said, “I understand you’re tak- ing him what it was like to Ralph wrote 80 novels, ing a sabbatical from Notre grow up in a family with a including a series of mystery Dame this year, and you’re famous philosopher and writer novels entitled the Father going to teach at Cornell for a dad. Dowling Mysteries, which University.” He replied, Dan commented that it was- Hollywood worked into a TV “That’s right.” I said, “Good n’t much different from what series (Dennis indicated to me for you!” He said, “Good for other families experienced. that Hollywood also changed Cornell!” It was probably true. However, I think it was Dan much). In addition to his nov- Another time, when Ralph who referred to his father as the els, Ralph also wrote about two had hit 70 years of age, but was “Philosopher of the Wild West”—he always had his philosophical six-shooter a blazing. "PARTNERS OF 'THE That’s true. Ralph always seemed to be embroiled in con- CATHOLIC SERVANT'" troversies in the Church. He Help in the work of spreading, explaining, and defending the Catholic was not afraid to clarify and Faith by becoming a "Partner of 'The Catholic Servant'" with a mone- teach the truths of the Catholic tary gift to our publication Faith, even when it was not popular. _____ Yes, I want to become a "Partner of 'The Catholic Servant'" by making a gift of $100. In fact, it was Ralph and _____ Yes, I want to become a "Partner of 'The Catholic Servant'" by making a gift of $250.

Michael Novak who founded _____ Yes, I want to become a "Partner of 'The Catholic Servant'" by making a gift of $500. Crisis Magazine about 30 years ago when the United States _____ Yes, I want to become a "Partner of 'The Catholic Servant'" by making a gift of $1,000. Bishops were working on a _____ Yes, I want to become a "Partner of 'The Catholic Servant'" by making a gift of $______. pastoral letter about peace and nuclear weapons. Ralph and Name ______Michael wanted some scholar- Address ______ly discussion to take place, and City ______State ______Zip ______they were going to provide a forum for that discussion in Telephone ______E-mail______February, 2010 The Catholic Servant Page 11 My semester in Rome: a lesson of what it means to be a pilgrim coming home By Joseph Kuharski Don (Father) Luigi, an impos- churches, we trekked across the Bernardi campus exhausted Catherine of Siena, and the ing character with an overcoat city to the Angelicum from walking through the heart of St. Charles Borromeo, [Editor’s that draped over his hunched University, about a 40 minute crowds in the stifling heat. which I visited a number of note: This shoulders. He was the pastor of walk. Far from merely being Besides our daily routine of times in Rome. In Ireland, article first the beautiful local parish. hurdles during our semester of classes, the weekends offered which quickly became my appeared in Without hesitation, he called to favorite destination (meriting a “The Borrom- the schoolchildren and, with second visit), five of us semi- ean” newslet- whatever he said, sent the kids narians attended Mass at the ter of the and their teachers stampeding Shrine of Our Lady of Knock Church of St. towards us with their arms out- and then mounted Croagh Charles Bor- stretched and lips perched, Patrick, where St. Patrick romeo in St. ready to offer the traditional prayed and fasted for forty Kuharski Anthony, Italian double cheek kiss. It days and forty nights. Minnesota. was rather frightening at first. Wherever we went, there were Joseph Kuharski, who is a sem- This sort of welcome, though always elements of both adven- inarian at St. John Vianney not always so alarming, ture and hardship. College Seminary, spent a became commonplace to us in After getting lost several semester in Rome through the such a rich Catholic culture. times, asking countless Italians University of St. Thomas’ Without the wonderful hospi- for directions (which we never Catholic Studies program, and tality, we may have slept out on understood), and eventually he travelled with other semi- a porch like the previous group having to ford a river, the ten of narians into Rome by way of a of seminarians, or even worse! us seminarians found ourselves pilgrimage to their residence. Our five day pilgrimage to on the street leading into the This article is re-printed with Rome, which began our arms of St. Peter’s, the final the permission of “The semester abroad, was met by destination of our pilgrimage. Borromean”] great graces as well as trials. As St. Paul says, we ran the Through the entirety of the race to the full, and, alas, here Nearly 5000 miles away semester, this pilgrimage men- is our great reward. What a joy from home and weary from a tality continued, as the Church St. John Vianney seminarians from the University it must be for a faithful pilgrim six hour hike, ten of us semi- teaches it should for each one of St. Thomas' Catholic Studies program visit to be received at last into his narians from St. John Vianney of us as we labor through life’s St. Peter's Square. Father’s arms, in all His heav- Seminary search for a place to trials and persecution. enly glory! rest our tired bodies. Upon For many, the thought of a excitement, our classes prime opportunities as pil- entering the little village of semester abroad includes any- stretched us intellectually grims. Not only was our desti- Joseph Kuharski is a senior Vetralla, about fifty miles out- thing but real academic study. while focusing on the Church nation often a holy site, but the at St. John Vianney College side of Rome, we do what any Instead, it is often seen as a and the city of Rome. In fact, lodging and transportation Semnary, and, yes, he is the desperate young seminarian time to enjoy an extended one particular class involved helped resemble that of a pil- youngest child of Mary ann would do: invite ourselves into vacation without any real studying the various eras of grim. Often this meant staying and John Kuharski’s family of the local Catholic church. responsibilities. In case we church architecture by making at youth hostels and packing 13 children. Regardless of the fact that seminarians were naïve enough actual visits to famous church- nutella (peanut butter was a “seminaristas” was one of only to believe this, the 6am holy es, including San Clemente, St. luxury) and jelly for lunch. This article was funded by the about three words in our Italian hour each day would help Mary Major, and St. John Some of my favorite sites St. Thomas Aquinas Chair of vocabulary, the message was shock our preconceived Lateran. Often ending our last include the incorrupt body of Writing sponspored by an anony- always successfully transmit- notions. After holy hour and class late into the evening, we St. John Vianney in Ars, mous patron. ted. We were then greeted by Mass at one of the local would return to St. Thomas’ France, the home of St.

St. Narcisa of Jesus from Ecuador shows us a path of Christian perfection By Kristen Lang detail to its fullest. In doing so, short years after their mother’s times drew her into ecstasy, evening in her cell. St. Narcisa of Jesus showed passing, their father also died. where her mind was captivated St. Narcisa of Jesus lived a Onwith her life how to light one Since Narcisa knew how to by thoughts of our Lord. life which we are all called to October 12, little corner of the world with sew, she went to work as a Narcisa became wholly dedi- live. We are capable of great 2008, Pope the fire of Jesus’ love. seamstress in order to help cated to live for God and oth- love and called to live with Benedict Peter Martillo and support her family. As she ers. As she had already spent God in a relationship of love. XVI canon- Josephine Moran were a loved to teach, Narcisa also much time in the toil of the Through grace, we can foster a ized a devoutly Catholic married found time to help others, world, Narcisa began to yearn beautiful life of prayer in devout couple living and farming in especially children, learn for a life of solitude with which we become completely Ecuadorian Nobol, Ecuador, when they about Jesus. Her daily sched- Christ. For this reason, in caught up in His love and ded- laywoman, welcomed their sixth of nine ule began to take on a structure 1868, she traveled to the icated to Him. As Pope St. Narcisa children into the world in of prayer and work, the call of Dominicans in Lima, Peru, to Benedict XVI said in his can- Lang of Jesus, 1832, a girl whom they named the lay faithful. Narcisa made live as a lay member within onization homily, “St. Narcisa approximately 16 years after Narcisa. Narcisa was just six time for silence as part of her their convent. Narcisa’s health of Jesus shows us a path of her beatification on October years old when her mother prayer routine, and began to declined in September of Christian perfection that is 25, 1992. He said in his homi- died, but despite this misfor- fast as well. She regularly 1869, although she struggled accessible to all the faithful.” ly that she “shows us a path of tune, Narcisa was noted as sought out spiritual direction to maintain a normal routine. St. Narcisa of Jesus, pray for Christian perfection that is being a happy girl with a and, as Pope Benedict XVI Several weeks later, Narcisa us! accessible to all the faithful…. peaceful disposition, who was noted at her canonization, she began a novena which ended In her passionate love for prone to goodness, generosity, relied on spiritual direction as on the Feast of the Immaculate Kristen Lang is a freelance Jesus, which led her to follow and compassion. Only a year “an effective means to holi- Conception. On that same day, writer from Elk River, Minn. a path of intense prayer and later, at her Confirmation, ness.” Narcisa’s devotion to December 8, dressed in white, mortification and to identify Narcisa was keenly aware of prayer was the key to her joy she received our Lord in the This article was funded by the herself for evermore with the Jesus’ invitation to her to live and the source of her holiness. Blessed Sacrament at Holy St. Bernadette of Soubirous Chair Mystery of the Cross, she in His love by a life of holi- Narcisa’s response to Mass before setting off on of Writing sponsored by Thomas offers a fascinating witness ness. She responded to this Jesus’ invitation was a direct what she called “a journey and Barbara Janas. and a complete example of a invitation in love and by result of sacramental grace and very far.” She was later discov- life totally dedicated to God prayer, finding times during a pious upbringing. The fruit ered to have died that same and to others.” Pope Benedict the day to give herself to con- of that response was an inti- mentions St. Narcisa’s intense templation of her Beloved. She mate relationship with Jesus life of prayer, her desire for even made the decision to con- Christ, the Bridegroom. Her penance, and her dedication to secrate herself to Jesus for the love for our Lord was deep- living for God and others. rest of her life. Narcisa was ened in that relationship, so Moreover, the Holy Father caught up in a love which much so that the Holy Father mentions these three things in knew no bounds, and this love mentions her as identifying the context of her passionate urged her to make an offering with the Mystery of the Cross. love for Jesus. Indeed, her of her life through the daily Narcisa constantly placed her- virtues were practiced in every struggles and sufferings which self in the presence of Jesus moment of her ordinary life she would encounter. through her prayers of silence, and it was precisely love Death would again befall sacrifice, and docility; more- which drove her to live each Narcisa’s family as, just a few over, Narcisa’s prayers some- Page 12 The Catholic Servant February, 2010 Year for Priests The Old Testament priests took care of the Ark and brought it to Jerusalem By Fr. John Paul Echert they came to the threshing floor of was King David himself who offered He will establish a house for you. And Nodan, Uzzah reached out his hand to sacrifices and was girded with a linen when your time comes and you rest Thus far in this the Ark of God and steadied it, for the apron [ephod], a garment worn by with your ancestors, I will raise up your biblical series on the oxen were making it tip. But the LORD priests. These priestly features associat- heir after you, sprung from your loins, priesthood we have was angry with Uzzah; God struck him ed with the King are a foreshadowing of and I will make his kingdom firm. It is followed the priest- on that spot, and he died there before the fact that nearly one thousand years he who shall build a house for My hood from its origins God. David was disturbed because the later Jesus, known under the title Son of name. And I will make his royal throne with the first genera- LORD had vented His anger on David, would subsume the High firm forever. I will be a father to him, tion of humanity Uzzah…. David feared the LORD that Priesthood to Himself as King. In fact, and he shall be a son to Me. And if he through the patriar- day and said, ‘How can the Ark of the the promise of an everlasting kingdom does wrong, I will correct him with the chal period, through LORD come to me?’” (II Sam. 6:1-9) is contained within a prophecy that was rod of men and with human chastise- the wandering of For all the good intention Uzzah delivered to King David not long after ments; but I will not withdraw My favor Fr. Echert Israel in the wilder- may have had in touching the Ark, it the arrival of the Ark, at a time when he from him as I withdrew it from your ness for forty years, was not sufficient to save him from was resolved to build the Ark a suitable predecessor Saul, whom I removed into the land of promise and then into divine punishment. Why? No doubt it house: from My presence. Your house and your the period of the Judges. By now it is relates somehow to the fact that it was “Thus says the LORD: Should you kingdom shall endure forever before obvious that in order to follow the activ- the exclusive domain of the priests and build Me a house to dwell in? I have not Me; your throne shall stand firm forev- ity of the priesthood we must continue their assisting Levites to carry the Ark dwelt in a house from the day on which er.” (II Sam. 7:5-16) to follow the Ark of the Covenant, so from one place to another, in accord I led the Israelites out of Egypt to the This prophecy of a future kingdom inseparably yoked are the two through- with the divine instructions given first present, but I have been going about in was initially and partially fulfilled in the out much of Old Testament history. So through Moses and then through a tent under cloth. In all My wanderings next son of the King, Solomon, but was now we follow the Ark, hitherto on the Joshua. The fact that the Ark had been everywhere among the Israelites, did I most perfectly fulfilled many genera- move from one place to another, to its placed upon a cart rather than carried by ever utter a word to any one of the tions later in the long-awaited Son of more permanent home in the capital city priests or Levites was itself a sacrilege. judges whom I charged to tend My peo- David, Jesus Christ, Whose Kingdom is of Jerusalem: After a three month delay following this ple Israel, to ask: ‘Why have you not the everlasting Church and Whose “David again assembled all the mishap, King David revised his proce- built Me a house of cedar?’ … It was I Priesthood is exercised without end. picked men of Israel, thirty thousand in dures to insure that the Ark was proper- Who took you from the pasture and Next month we will examine some number. Then David and all the people ly carried into Jerusalem, amidst much from the care of the flock to be com- interesting details related to the earthly who were with him set out … to bring celebration: mander of My people Israel. I have been Old Testament temple erected by that up from there the Ark of God, which “David went to bring up the Ark of with you wherever you went, and I have first son of David, King Solomon, and bears the name of the LORD of hosts God … into the City of David amid fes- destroyed all your enemies before you. the priestly ministry exercised therein. enthroned above the cherubim. The Ark tivities. As soon as the bearers of the And I will make you famous like the of God was placed on a new cart and Ark of the LORD had advanced six steps, great ones of the earth. I will fix a place Fr. John Paul Echert, S.S.L., is the taken away from the house of Abinadab he sacrificed an ox and a fatling. Then for My people Israel; I will plant them pastor of Holy Trinity Church and St. on the hill. Uzzah and Ahio, sons of David, girt with a linen ephod [apron], so that they may dwell in their place Augustine Church in South St. Paul, Abinadab, guided the cart, with Ahio came dancing before the LORD with without further disturbance. Neither Minn. walking before it, while David and all abandon, as he and all the Israelites shall the wicked continue to afflict them the Israelites made merry before the were bringing up the Ark of the LORD as they did of old, since the time I first This article was funded by the St. Francis LORD with all their strength, with with shouts of joy and to the sound of appointed judges over My people Israel. of Assisi Chair of Writing co-sponspored by singing and with citharas, harps, tam- the horn.” (II Sam. 6:12-15) I will give you rest from all your ene- Paul and Donna Beery and Terry and Loretta bourines, sistrums and cymbals. When Note the interesting details that it mies. The LORD also reveals to you that Ratajczyk.

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