NorthBringing the Good News to the Diocese Texas of Fort Worth Catholic Vol. 22 No. 18 November 3, 2006 Pope says Christians can be missionaries to those near and far

By Cindy Wooden Converted and saved by love, VATICAN CITY (CNS) — All every Christian is called to pro- Christians are called to be mis- claim “the good news that God sionaries, sharing the good news is love and, in this way, save the of God’s love in their families, world,” the pope said. workplaces, or in far-off lands, Because mission is a matter of Pope Benedict XVI said. sharing the love of God, every “Mission starts from the Christian can and must be a mis- heart,” the pope said during his sionary, he said. midday Angelus address Oct. Missionary work is not lim- 22, which was World Mission ited to traveling far away to Sunday. proclaim the Gospel to people “The love that moved the who have not heard the message, Father to send his Son into the he said. Missionary work also world and [moved] the Son to can be striving to make one’s offer himself for us to the point family life holy, living one’s DEDICATION OF BASILICA CHAPEL — A girl participates in the dedication of Our Lady of La Vang Chapel at the Basilica of dying on the cross, that same professional life “with a Chris- of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington Oct. 21. The chapel was a gift from Vietnamese- love was poured by the Holy tian spirit,” or dedicating one’s Americans. See story p. 15 (CNS photo/Matthew Barrick, courtesy of the National Shrine) Spirit into the hearts of believ- life to God in the priesthood or ers,” he said. religious life. SIM grants help parishes, schools with Bishops from Americas discuss limited resources make necessary repairs threats to life, U.S. border fence By Joan Kurkowski-Gillen problem the whole time I’ve been Correspondent here,” she says in frustration. By Cindy Wooden early October. Charlene Hymel might be Thanks to Sharing in Ministry, VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The In addition to denouncing the only person thankful for the the Annual Diocesan Appeal, breakdown of families and threats to human life, council ongoing drought in North Texas. relief is on the way. St. Rita is one threats to human life, from abor- members — from North and Cloudless skies mean one thing of a dozen schools and parishes tion to the death penalty, are South America as well as from to the St. Rita School principal: slated to receive a capital grant challenges that Catholics in the the Vatican — also offered a harsh There won’t be any rain leak- to help with costly repair work Americas must confront, said a assessment of plans to construct ing through the roof and into or building projects. The SIM group of bishops meeting at the a fence along the U.S.-Mexican classrooms. campaign is currently underway Vatican. border. “When it starts to rain, my in the Diocese of Fort Worth with The council of bishops charged On Oct. 23, Congress sent the husband and I come to the school a goal to raise $2,600,000 for a with monitoring and promoting bill authorizing construction of to set out buckets,” the dedicated variety of critical and immediate follow-up to the 1997 Synod 700 miles of fencing to President administrator explains. “In one ers in the fi fth grade classroom. needs of the local church here in of Bishops for America and to George W. Bush, who signed it hallway, the water trickles down Fortunately, the school was able the 28 counties of the diocese. To Pope John Paul II’s 1999 post- Oct. 26. the wall and makes a puddle.” to salvage the units. date, $1.7 million is committed synodal document, The Church “The wall along the United During the last downpour, a “I’ve been principal [for] four toward the goal. in America, met at the Vatican in SEE BORDER FENCE…, P. 16 leak in the roof soaked comput- years, and I’ve been fi ghting this SEE SIM HELPS…, P. 8 Speakers at Canon Law convention say there’s room for improvement in church consultation FORT WORTH (CNS) — Paul II’s 2001 apostolic letter, various lay and priests’ councils There’s room for improvement Novo Millennio Ineunte (At the helping diocesan bishops, and in church consultation, said Beginning of the New Millennium). fi nance and pastoral councils speakers at the annual conven- In it the late pope called for aiding pastors. tion of the Canon Law Society strengthening a “spirituality of “Truly, the Code of Canon Law of America. communion” by effectively using proposes perfect structures for The Code of Canon Law pre- the structures of participation consultation,” Cardinal Rodri- scribes various structures for and consultation provided for guez said. However, they will church consultation, but they are in church law. be effective only if those who not always effective in practice, In an Oct. 9 keynote address, request and offer advice have the speakers said during the Oct. Cardinal Oscar Rodriguez Mara- the ability to listen, especially to 9-12 meeting in Fort Worth. diaga of Tegucigalpa, Honduras, “listen wisely,” he added. VATICAN NEWSPAPER — Pope Benedict XVI reads the Vatican newspaper, The theme of the convention, identifi ed consultative bodies Msgr. John Strynkowski, for- L’Osservatore Romano, in this 2005 photo. The newspaper’s editorial views “Consultation in the Life of the on all church levels, from the mer executive director of the U.S. correspond to Catholic teaching and positions taken by the pope. An exhibit on Church: In Service of Commu- Synod of Bishops and College of bishops’ Secretariat for Doctrine the 145-year history of the Vatican newspaper is currently on display in Rome. nio,” was inspired by Pope John Cardinals assisting the pope, to SEE CONSULTATION…, P. 13 See story, p. 24 (CNS photo/L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO) Page 2 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Diocesan We thank God for our increase of vocations, and those who will respond to God’s call to serve the Church Dear Friends in the only of the glory of the Risen Savior, more aware of the need for a fuller but that the Church is truly universal appreciation of the truth of peace. At Diocese of Fort Worth, Isaac Orozco, and is not congregational or even the same time, I ask for an increase national. This is simply illustrated by s Thomas Kennedy, of prayers, since peace is above all using the term “The Catholic Church a gift of God, a gift to be implored we Jonathan Wallis, in the United States” or the “Catholic incessantly….” and Ray McDaniel Church in France” rather than the We are very proud of the fact that go “American Church” or the “French Isaac Orozco was ordained to the A will be ordained to Church” for example. transitional diaconate at St. Peter’s further the priesthood next Nov. 11 is worthwhile considering, Basilica in Rome on Oct. 5, and on into the as well. We know this as Veterans’ summer, giving us Nov. 4, Thomas Kennedy, Jonathan month of Day or Armistice Day. It is the day Wallis, and Ray McDaniel will be the largest priestly when the treaty which ended World ordained to the transitional diacon- Novem- War I was signed. Peace treaties ate. They will be ordained to the Bishop Kevin W. Vann ordination class for were signed on Nov. 11, tradition- ber, we priesthood next summer, giving us our diocese ever! We ally, because this is the feast day of the largest priestly ordination class have more opportunities in St. Martin of Tours. St. Martin of for our diocese ever! We thank the thank the Lord for Tours had been a soldier who gave Lord for their willingness to say yes the church’s calendar for their willingness to say up his military career, and later be- to his call and for all who nurtured refl ection and living of our came the bishop of Tours in France. and supported that call, including yes to his call and for He founded the fi rst monastery in their seminary communities in Rome Faith. all who nurtured and France and is the patron of soldiers, at the North American College and wine producers, and France. Assumption in San Antonio. Please For example, Nov. 9 is the an- supported that call.... On this day, it would be well to keep praying for a generous response niversary of the dedication of pray in gratitude and support of all in our diocese to the call to serve the the Basilica of St. John Lateran in “The Mother and Head of all of the of the men and women of the armed Lord as priests and religious. Rome. The land, owned by the Lat- Churches of the City and the World.” forces who have served our country Finally, as I mentioned in my last erani family, was given to Pope St. This makes it the Cathedral of the both here and overseas. I think of column, November is the month Sylvester, and here, on this prop- Bishop of Rome, and in that sense, it my own father and his generation of all of the faithful departed. This erty, on November 9, 324 A.D. the outranks even St. Peter’s Basilica! who served in the Second World would be an ideal month to visit our Basilica of the Most Holy Savior and What we are reminded of by this War. I remember visiting the D-Day cemeteries and pray for all those St. John the Baptist was dedicated. feast day (where on the weekday the cemetery at Omaha Beach in France, who have died, as it is a spiritual The building has had several Gloria and even the Credo are recited in the company of a man who was work of mercy. additions and much rebuilding or sung) is the nature of our com- visiting his brother’s grave and had This month especially, and the over the years, but it celebrates with munion of Faith with the Universal not seen his brother since he had left ending of the calendar and the beauty and majesty our Catholic Church. The identity of the commu- home in l939. church year, remind us that no Faith. It is here, in the baptistry, nion of the particular church is the We must also pray for peace, as matter how important our project, where the Exultet was fi rst sung! It bishop and the diocese. The particu- I think of the words of Pope Bene- point of view, ministry, or service is here where the bishops of Rome lar church, then, must be in com- dict XVI this year on Jan. 1: “Every may be, it all comes back around to resided for many years. There is an munion with the Universal Church community should undertake an the greatest gift of all, our eternal inscription, in Latin, over the front and the Bishop of Rome. Thus, this extensive process of education and salvation. door which reads that this basilica is basilica is a powerful reminder not witness aimed at making everyone God bless you always.

Governments must work together to reverse North poverty and hunger, says pope Texas VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Gov- sage was sent to the head of the and socioeconomic aspects.” Catholic ernments must work together to U.N. Food and Agriculture Orga- “Local communities need to be reverse hunger and poverty and nization, Jacques Diouf, to mark involved in choices and decisions invest more in local agriculture, the Oct. 16 celebration of World concerning land use, since farm- Pope Benedict XVI said on the Food Day. The Vatican released a land is being diverted increasingly occasion of World Food Day. copy of the message Oct. 19. to other purposes, often with dam- Publisher: Bishop Kevin W. Vann “Today more than ever, in the Established by the United aging effects on the environment Editor: Jeff Hensley face of recurring crises and the Nations, World Food Day aims and the long-term viability of the Associate Editor: Mary Martin pursuit of narrow self-interest, to draw attention to what can land,” he wrote. Secretary: Judy Russeau there has to be cooperation and be done to help alleviate world Reaping profits in the short Editorial Offi ce: 800 West Loop 820 South, Fort Worth, Texas 76108, (817) solidarity between states, each hunger. term must be tempered with “bet- 560-3300; FAX (817) 244-8839. of which should be attentive to More than 850 million people ter long-term planning for food Circulation Offi ce: Wilma Adrian, 800 West Loop 820 South, Fort Worth, Texas the needs of its weakest citizens, across the globe suffer from security” and practices that “do 76108, (817) 560-3300. who are the fi rst to suffer from hunger and poverty despite the not cause irreversible damage to NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC (USPS 751-370) (ISSN 0899-7020) is published semi-monthly, except for the months of June, July, and August when it is pub- poverty,” he said in a written progress made in agriculture and nature,” the message said. lished monthly, by the Most Rev. Kevin W. Vann, Bishop of the Diocese of Fort message. rural development, according to Pope Benedict urged societ- Worth, 800 West Loop 820 South. Subscription rates are $20 for one year, $38 If nations do not look out for the FAO. ies and governments to no lon- for two years, $55 for three years. Periodical postage paid at Fort Worth, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to North Texas Catholic, 800 West Loop the common good of the whole It said 70 percent of the world’s ger overlook the importance of 820 South, Fort Worth, Texas 76108. human family through a spirit of hungry live in rural areas — agriculture and to protect and Deadline for information for the North Texas Catholic is noon of Wednesday of solidarity, “there is a risk of limit- where farming and most food promote rural families. the week before the paper is published. The NTC is published two times a month ing or even impeding the work of production take place. Laws and investments affect- on Friday, except for the months of June, July, and August when it is published international organizations that The pope said in his message ing agriculture, he wrote, must one time each month. The appearance of advertising in these pages does not imply endorsement of set out to fi ght hunger and mal- that the fi ght against hunger often help the family stay together businesses, services, or products. Readers must exercise prudence in respond- nutrition,” the pope wrote. ignores the people it seeks to help and help it hold onto its “moral ing to advertising in all media. Pope Benedict’s written mes- and instead focuses on “technical principles and values.” NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 3 Diocesan First diocesan Spanish-language vocation retreat is offered Unique opportunity allows those looking into a vocation to open the door a little wider Story by Joan Kurkowski-Gillen / Photos by Donna Ryckaert

rowing up surrounded Gby people of Hispanic heritage,

Martha always knew Above: Father Kyle Walterscheid (left), associate director of Vocations what direction her life for the Diocese of Fort Worth, answers questions from Francisco García regarding a vocation to the priesthood. was expected to take.

“You get married and have children; that’s the pattern,” the 32-year-old woman explains. “Even the spiritual retreats I went on as a teenager focused Above: (L. to R.) Sister Inés Díaz, SSMN, Sister Flor Barreto, on family issues and parenting HFIC, and Sister Yolanda Cruz, SSMN, clap their hands kids.” enthusiastically as they participate in the fi rst diocesan The Busqueda (Search) and Spanish-language retreat. Jornada-Juvenil (Youth Jour- ney) weekends she attended never discussed the possibility of a religious vocation. “You have to be self-driven to learn more about that,” Mar- tha adds. “It’s up to you to look for answers.” Fortunately, that’s changed. Spanish-speaking Catholics Above: Father Anh Tran (center), diocesan director of Vocations, meets with who are trying to discern a re- retreat participants Leo Palacios (left) and Héctor Castro as they try to discern ligious vocation in the Diocese their vocational call. of Fort Worth now have a new resource at their disposal. A vo- Left: Sister Merys Jiménez, HCG, (center) shares a laugh with Luz Romero (left) cation awareness retreat, con- and Maribel López as the young women discern a possible call to religious life. ducted entirely in Spanish, was sponsored recently by the Serra Club and the Diocese of Fort ed group and panel discus- different responses.” For many, the weekend was ing,” Fr. Walterscheid ex- Worth. The fi rst-time event, sions, Mass, holy hour, singing, The small, intimate gather- an eye-opening experience. plained. held at the Catholic Renewal personal refl ection time, and ing generated a comfortable, “It let them know there’s Offering the vocation Center in East Fort Worth, one-on-one visits with repre- safe environment for people another door open to them in awareness program in Span- brought together 18 adults who sentatives of different religious contemplating a serious deci- life. That’s something they may ish proved benefi cial beyond have expressed an interest in orders. Prayer and spirituality sion. not have realized before,” Fr. improved communication. religious life. Organizers de- were the topics of a keynote ad- “Everybody there had the Walterscheid said. “It showed these people the signed the retreat to appeal to dress delivered by Sister same interest,” she said. “It Retreat facilitators con- church is truly interested and men and women between the Gabriela Martinez, SSMN, Sat- was a chance for like-minded tinue to meet with interested cares,” Fr. Walterscheid sug- ages of 18 to 35. urday evening. people to come together for candidates for more intensive gested. “Using native language “That’s a really good age “She stressed the importance meals, prayer, and talks.” discernment during a series is always the best way to reach for discerning and search- of prayer and of having a spiri- Father Kyle Walterscheid, of informal gatherings held someone whether they’re Viet- ing,” says Sister Yolanda Cruz, tual director in their lives to associate director of Voca- weekly at St. Patrick Cathe- namese or Hispanic.” SSMN, associate director of help guide them in discovering tions, who will succeed Father dral in downtown Fort Worth. Martha, who speaks both Children’s Catechetical Minis- where their road is leading,” Sr. Anh Tran as diocesan director Bishop Kevin Vann attended English and Spanish, says the try for the diocese. “There are Yolanda said. of Vocations in January, said the group’s Oct. 19 meeting to retreat replaced the confusion a lot of potential vocations in Earlier in the day, retreat that inviting young men and discuss the fear and apprehen- she felt with information. After the Spanish-speaking commu- participants were invited to women who are interested in sion involved in answering a meeting with representatives nity, and we need to reach out meet personally with visiting religious life to a retreat is like call to religious life. During the from several different religious to them.” religious. The 30-minute chats sowing a garden. discernment process, individu- congregations, the young Working toward that objec- received high marks in follow- “You can’t bear fruit unless als are advised to speak with a professional is now planning tive, the Diocesan Hispanic up evaluations. you plant the seed,” he ex- spiritual director once a month to visit some convents to learn Vocation Committee has tried “People were particularly plained. “These are people who and expand their involvement more. to develop different activi- touched by the individual are beginning to discern a voca- in parish activities. “I hope to fi nd out if that’s ties and events. The weekend conferences,” she said. “It was tion. They’re trying to under- “And I’m trying to get truly where my niche is,” she retreat was the culmination of an opportunity for them to in- stand where they fi t within the priests and sisters to journey says. “This weekend was a those efforts. terview with sisters and priests, church, and we want to give individually with young men good way to guide that deci- The varied schedule includ- ask questions, and hear the them the tools to do that.” and women who are discern- sion.” Page 4 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 St. Maria Gore- Nov. 30 celebra- Save the date Interfaith tti Parish to tion to honor for SWLC Study Thanksgiving present ‘H3: three diocesan Week Jan. 17-20 service to be Holy Happy retirees PeoplePeople in Oklahoma City held Nov. 19 at A celebration honoring the The Southwest Liturgical Con- Hour’ Nov. 14 contributions of longtime diocesan St. Philip’s ference will hold its 44th annual St. Maria Goretti Parish will pres- employees Charmaine Williams, Study Week Jan. 17-20 at the Cox An interfaith Thanksgiving service ent “H3: Holy Happy Hour,” an op- Sandra Leighton, and Sister Donna Business Services Convention Center will be celebrated Sunday, Nov. portunity to learn about and discuss Ferguson, SSMN, will be held Nov. in Oklahoma City. 19, at 2:30 p.m. in the Community contemporary issues with regards to 30 at Good Shepherd Church, 1000 Events Life Center of St. Philip the Apostle Events “Be a part of the Study Week,” the truths of Catholicism in a casual, Tinker Road in Colleyville. The suggest organizers, “as we listen Church, 1897 W. Main Street in social setting at J. Gilligan’s, 400 E. celebration will mark the retirement &of Importance for the Lewisville. People of all faiths in to and dialogue with scholars, col- Abram Street in Arlington. “H3” will of the three women, and will include leagues, and coworkers in liturgy Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland be held one Tuesday a month, and an evening prayer service, beginning Church of Fort Worth and catechesis about the meaning Village, and surrounding communi- the next gathering is scheduled for at 6:30 p.m. in the church. The fol- of Sunday, the day of the Lord, and ties are invited to attend. Tuesday, Nov. 14. Doors open for lowing reception, to be held in the what it means to ‘Keep Holy the Following the tradition begun food and drinks at 6 p.m., and the parish hall, will conclude by 9 p.m. Lord’s Day.’” with the international interfaith program will begin at 7 p.m. All are invited to attend. Study Week speakers will include prayer services held in Assisi, Italy, Colleen Hammond, a former Williams, who has served as the Father Paul Holmes, Father J. Mi- all are invited to gather while leaders on-camera meteorologist for the diocesan director of Pastoral Plan- chael Joncas, Father Kevin Irwin, from each faith community present Weather Channel, will speak on “Liv- ning and Human Resources, has Pat Kerwin, and Bill Huebsch. a brief explanation of their faith ing Your Faith in the 21st Century worked with finance and pastoral To acquire a registration brochure tradition’s basic belief system. Each in a World of Negative Influences.” councils across the diocese since or for more information, call (405) leader will then offer a brief prayer. Hammond, an award-winning 1986, and has been instrumental 721-5651 ext. 158 or mail a request to This opportunity is designed to assist writer and a radio and television in developing groups such as the The Office of Worship and Spiritual in developing understanding among talk-show host, will share a message Diocesan Pastoral Advisory Council Life, P.O. Box 32180, Oklahoma City, the different faiths, while helping filled with down-to-earth wisdom, (DPAC), the Synod Planning Com- OK 73123. More information is also participants to grow in a sense of inspiration, and humor, according mittee, and the Ministerium. Leigh- available online at www.swlc.org. respect for the unique aspects within to program information, bringing ton, administrator of the diocesan each faith tradition. a fresh and creative approach to Marriage Tribunal, has worked in Leaders of any group wishing living joyfully. diocesan-level Tribunal ministry ‘Annulment in to participate are asked to contact For more information, contact Lu- since 1983, developing a large group event coordinator Kathleen Easler cas Pollice, in the parish Faith Forma- of volunteer auditors from across the the Church’ to at (817) 430-2454, or via e-mail to tion Office at (817) 274-0643 ext. 226 diocese who work to assist petition- be lecture topic [email protected]. or at [email protected]. ers with marriage cases. Sr. Donna, Participants are also invited to director of Seminarians since 1983, EWTN CELEBRATION —Jacqueline Flusche (right), 18, a parishioner at DCCW meet- bring musical accompanists or a Program to works with candidates for priesthood at Sacred Heart Church in Muenster, traveled with a group of relatives and choral group to share in the pro- and assists them with the process friends to Hanceville, Alabama, to attend the 25th anniversary celebration of ing Nov. 16 gram. All are asked to respond prior help couples of testing, application to seminary, the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN). While at the Aug. 12-13 celebra- All women are invited to attend to Nov. 15. and pastoral assignments prior to tion, Jacqueline had the opportunity to meet and speak with Fr. Francis Mary the quarterly luncheon meeting of preparing for ordination. (left), host of the popular EWTN show “Life on the Rock.” As Flusche plans the Central/East Deanery of the Fort marriage For more information about the for her future, she affirms that her journey to Alabama was a turning point in Worth Diocesan Council of Catholic celebration or to RSVP prior to the her own faith journey, allowing her to grow in her determination, she wrote, Women at St. Matthew Parish, 2021 Ministry with validation Nov. 20 deadline, call The Catholic “to preach to the world about our faith through the spoken word and through New York Ave. in Arlington. Registra- gay, lesbian A day of preparation for couples Center at (817) 560-3300 or e-mail music.” Jacqueline hopes to attend the Franciscan University of Steubenville, tion will begin at 9:30 a.m. seeking to have their marriage to [email protected]. Ohio, and to pursue studies in theology and music, with the goal of one day Joleen Dubois, who has served Catholics an- validated within the Catholic Church working at EWTN. on the Diocese of Fort Worth Mar- will be offered Saturday, Nov. 11, riage Tribunal since January 2002, nounces holi- from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by the Cardinal New- will speak on “Annulment in the day schedule diocesan Family Life Office. The ‘Yes! I’m Catho- ‘Mornings of Church.” Dubois currently serves as one-day session, entitled “Today man Institute a case coordinator/assessor, working The regular monthly meeting of … Tomorrow … Forever,” will lic’ sessions to Refl ection’ to be with parish coordinators, priests, the Fort Worth Diocesan Ministry be held at The Catholic Center, to host fi nal and other Tribunal personnel to as- with Lesbian and Gay Catholics, be offered at offered at Mt. Other Sexual Minorities, and 800 West Loop 820 South in West lecture in series sist those who approach the Tribunal Fort Worth. St. Andrew’s Carmel Center with a petition. She will present her Their Families will not be held in Topics to be discussed will in- Dec. 9 Several morning retreat opportu- program prior to Mass. November or December because of Nov. 6, 20 nities will be available in upcoming The service project for November’s the Thanksgiving and Christmas clude “Marriage as a Sacrament,” The Cardinal Newman Institute Two sessions of the “Yes! I’m weeks at Mt. Carmel Center, located meeting is a Thanksgiving food drive holidays. Instead, all who are inter- “Commitment,” “Communica- for the Study of Faith and Culture Catholic” adult faith formation in far southwest Dallas at 4600 for parish food pantries. ested, including parents and friends, tion,” “Conflict Resolution,” and will conclude its fall lecture series program will be offered in November W. Davis Street. All “Mornings of Reservations must be made by are invited to attend the 5 p.m. “Intimacy.” Time will be set aside Saturday, Dec. 9, with a presentation at St. Andrew Parish, 3717 Stadium Reflection” will be offered from 10 noon on Monday, Nov. 13, by calling Mass Saturday, Dec. 9, at St. John for couples to strengthen their of “Venerable John Henry Cardinal Drive in Fort Worth. Father Nathan a.m. to noon. Mary DelRio at (817) 838-8120 or Pat the Apostle Church, 7341 Glenview relationships with regard to these Newman: An Exemplar Witness for Stone, SJ, from Montserrat Jesuit Upcoming programs will include: Coffey at (817) 657-2823. Reserva- Drive in North Richland Hills. The topic areas, as well as to focus upon Truth and a Man for Our Time” Retreat House in Lake Dallas, will Nov. 11, “The Infinite Horizon of tions not honored must be paid. liturgy will be followed by a potluck their individual relationships. This by Dr. James Patrick, chancellor program is a marriage enrichment present the sessions Monday eve- Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity,” an dinner in the parish hall; meats will of the College of St. Thomas More nings, Nov. 6 and 20, from 7 p.m. examination of the life and writings be provided. Food may be dropped opportunity and is open to all inter- in Fort Worth. The evening, which ested married couples who wish to to 8:30 p.m. of this French holy woman, to be St. Michael elder off at the parish’s Family Life Center will begin with a potluck supper at At the first session, Fr. Stone will presented by Rose Marie Chisholm, beginning at 3 p.m. deepen their sense of mutual love 7 p.m., will take place at St. Mary care series con- and commitment. examine the sacrament of baptism professor of music at the University The next regular meeting of the the Virgin Church, 1408 N. Davis and what it means for Catholics to- of North Texas; Nov 15, “Rejoice and ministry will be held Thursday, For more information or to reg- Drive in Arlington. tinues Nov. 6 day. Participants will be encouraged Again I Say Rejoice,” a reflection on For those dealing with elder care Jan. 25, at 7 p.m. at the Catholic ister, call the diocesan Family Life All are invited to attend. For more to reflect upon “How are we called the Gospel-based challenge to live issues, St. Michael Church, 3713 Renewal Center, 4503 Bridge Street Office at (817) 560-2452 ext. 304 or information, call (817) 277-4859. ext. 256 or visit the diocesan Web to ‘live’ our baptismal promises and with a sense of joy and appreciation Harwood Road, Bedford, is hosting in East Fort Worth, adjacent to site at www.fwdioc.org. continue to grow into the Mystery for God’s gifts, even in times of a series of free informational semi- Nolan Catholic High School. For of Faith?” hardship, to be presented by Father nars, designed to give participants more information, contact Father The Eucharist will be the focus Stephen Sanchez, OCD; and Dec. practical information and tools Warren Murphy, TOR, at (817) of the second session. Fr. Stone will 9, “A People Full of Anticipation: to assist them in their roles as 927-5383; Deacon Richard Griego at Offi cial Assignments delve into the tradition of this sacra- St. Luke and the Coming(s) of caregivers. The seminars, given in (817) 421-1387; or Hank and Dottie ment and examine what it means to the Messiah,” an Advent program conjunction with the Area Agency on Cummins at (817) 861-5772. be a “Eucharistic People.” Questions focusing upon how people of faith Aging of Tarrant County, are held The following assignments have been made by Bishop to be examined will include “What are to prepare for the coming of the at the church on Monday evenings Kevin Vann: does it mean to be transformed by Messiah, to be presented by Father at 7 p.m. Courage group the Eucharist; to be blest, broken, Jerome Earley, OCD. Upcoming topics to be addressed Father Paul Weon Phil Cho has been assigned as the pastor of and shared?” Participants are invited to bring in the series include “Housing meets twice Korean Martyrs Parish, Hurst, effective Sept. 1. Organizers invite all to “Come their own lunch for shared fellow- Options,” Nov. 6; “Managing the and see what opening the meaning ship following the sessions; drinks Holidays: Stress, Time, and Family,” monthly Father Antony Mathew, TOR, has been assigned as a parochial of these sacraments means for the and dessert are provided. Those Nov. 20; “Safety and Independence Courage D/FW, a spiritual support vicar at St. Patrick Cathedral, Fort Worth, effective Sept. 18. church; the People of God; for the planning to attend are asked to make 1,” Dec. 4; and “Safety and Inde- group for Catholics striving to live human family.” their reservation for the program one pendence 2,” Dec. 18. chaste lives according to Catholic Father Thobiyas Perianayagam, HGN, has been assigned as a For more information about the week prior to the event. A suggested For more information or to RSVP Church’s teachings on homosexu- parochial vicar at St. Matthew Parish, Arlington, effective Sept. 18. series, call the parish office at (817) donation of $25 is requested for for one of the sessions, visit the St. ality, meets the second and fourth 927-5383. Childcare will be provided each session. Michael Web site at www.smcchurch. Friday evenings of each month. Father Martin Tran Vanban, CMC, has been assigned as the pastor by calling (817) 924-6581 at least For more information or to make org, or contact Martin Peña, director For more information, e-mail to of Christ the King Parish, Fort Worth, effective Oct. 1. 48 hours in advance. There is a $5 a reservation, call (214) 331-6224 of Social Outreach and Pastoral Care [email protected] or call fee per child. ext. 314. at (817) 283-8746 ext. 30. (972) 938-5433. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 5 People and Events Doug Brum- Serra Club an- Singles Silent mel will pres- nounces dates Retreat to be ent ‘Lighten Up’ for Vocation held at Montser- at Holy Family Poster Contest rat Nov. 17-19 Each year students in Catholic All singles are invited to par- Church Dec. 4-5 grade schools or religious education ticipate in the annual Singles Silent Catholic entertainer Doug Brum- classes are invited to participate in Retreat, to be held at Montserrat mel will offer his one-man, charac- the Serra Club’s Vocation Poster Jesuit Retreat House, 600 N. Shady ter-changing show “Lighten Up” at Contest by drawing a picture which Shores Road, Lake Dallas. The Holy Family Church, 6150 Pershing best illustrates the contest’s theme. retreat will be offered Nov. 17-19, Ave. in Fort Worth, Dec. 4-5 at 6:47 The upcoming contest’s theme is beginning with supper on Friday p.m. each evening. All are invited “Going to the Whole World and evening and continuing through to attend. Proclaiming the Good News to All lunch on Sunday. According to program informa- Creatures.” The retreat will offer a mostly tion, Brummel will transform Letters have already been sent out silent atmosphere with time for himself into a variety of characters to Catholic schools and religious individual meditation and private that aim to help all generations education classes containing the prayer, and opportunities to walk connect their faith into everyday poster contest forms, which are to along the lake or visit the library/ life. “Bringing everyone together to accompany each poster submission. bookstore. Mass will be celebrated, celebrate the gifts of our faith and The deadline for submitting posters and the sacrament of reconciliation CDA COURT INSTALLATION — The Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court Mother of the Americas 2506, installed our family life … that’s what it is is March 1. The judging of the post- will be offered. Retreatants are also new officers Oct. 28 at St. Peter the Apostle Church. Present for the occasion were (l. to r.) Christina Mendez, financial all about,” says Brummel. ers will take place March 14, and welcome to schedule time for spiri- secretary and immediate past regent; Jane Savoy, district deputy; Barbara Lockwood, regent; Penny Becan, vice regent; A familiar and favorite personality the awards ceremony will be held tual direction with Jesuit staff. Evelyn Breaux, recording secretary; and Maria Salinas, treasurer. Court 2506 meets on the last Sunday of each month at past conferences and missions April 22 at St. Patrick Cathedral in The Singles Silent Retreat is open at St. Peter the Apostle Parish, 1201 S. Cherry Lane in White Settlement. within the Diocese of Fort Worth, downtown Fort Worth. to singles of all ages, including those Brummel has an extensive back- The local Serrans hope that the who have been separated, widowed, ground in youth and family ministry. youngsters will use this opportunity divorced, or never married. Women’s tea, Holy Spirit St. George Har- He has brought his show to more to focus on the theme and personally Individual rooms will be provided. auction to be vest Dance to than 700 communities in nearly consider whether they may be called Payment for the retreat is based on a Sisters to host every state in the nation. to a vocation to the priesthood or sliding scale, and payment options held at St. Fran- ‘Come and See’ be held Nov. 4 Admission is free; a free-will religious life. First place winners are available. For reservations, call The altar society of St. George offering will be accepted. More for each grade level will receive a Montserrat at (940) 321-6020, or e- cis of Assisi Dec. 8-10 Parish in Fort Worth will sponsor information on Doug Brummel’s $100 savings bond; second place mail to [email protected]. More Parish Nov. 5 The Sisters of the Holy Spirit will a Harvest Dance Saturday, Nov. ministry can be found at www. winners will receive a $50 savings information about Montserrat can host a “Come and See” weekend 4, from 8 p.m. to midnight. The dougbrummel.com. For more infor- All woman are invited to attend a bond, and third grade winners will be found online at www.montser- benefit tea and auction Sunday, Nov. at Holy Spirit Retreat Center in event will be held at the National mation, call Genni Sayers at (817) receive $10. ratretreat.org. San Antonio. The weekend will Hall, 3316 Roberts Cut-off Road in 737-6768 ext. 109. 5, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., sponsored For more information about the For more information on singles by The Mothers with Young Children begin Friday, Dec. 8, at 5 p.m. and Fort Worth. Holy Rosary poster contest or the Serra Club, activities in the Diocese of Fort Ministry (MYC) of St. Francis of continue through Sunday, Dec. 10, Come join in the fun, suggest contact Father Anh Tran, diocesan Worth, visit the diocesan Web Assisi Church, 861 Wildwood Lane, at 1 p.m. organizers. Music will be provided School to host director of Vocations, at (817) 560- site at www.fwdioc.org/default. in Grapevine. The annual event, The Sisters of the Holy Spirit, by the Charles Nemec Band. Activi- 3300 ext. 106. aspx?ID=401. which will be held in the parish’s inspired by their foundress Marga- ties will include a harvest fruit pull ‘Little Gobbler Family Life Center, enables MYC ret Mary Healy Murphy, are called and cakewalk, and door prizes will Thanksgiving to provide Christmas gifts to local to minister to persons who are be distributed. Klobase sandwiches, Cardinal New- Singles Christ- needy families and assist them in marginated, oppressed, or economi- kolache pastries, and nachos will be Party’ Nov. 17 covering basic needs such as utility cally poor. available for purchase. man Lecture to mas celebration bills and groceries. Any woman who might feel God is The cost is $12.50 per person. For “A Little Gobbler Thanksgiving MYC is comprised of Christian inviting her to share in this ministry a reservation, call Joan at (817) 838- Party” will be hosted Friday, Nov. be presented set for Dec. 9 at mothers who share similar goals may contact Sister Veronica Cahill 3106 or Mary at (817) 838-8120. 17, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Holy for their families and children. The by phone at (210) 533-5149 or Rosary School, 2015 S.W. Green Oaks Nov. 18 Holy Family group supports both recreational via e-mail to [email protected]. Blvd. in Arlington. The College of St. Thomas More The Singles Ministry of Holy and pastoral activities that minister Other information may be found Sacred Heart According to its Web site, Holy in Fort Worth will present its annual Family Church, 6150 Pershing Ave. to its members, St. Francis Parish, on the diocesan Web site at www. Rosary School proudly serves the Cardinal Newman Lecture Nov. 18 at in West Fort Worth, will be hosting in Seymour and the community. fwdioc.org. children of seven distinct parishes. St. Mary the Virgin Church, 1408 N. a Christmas celebration benefiting A silent auction and a live auction All parish toddler and pre-school- Davis Drive in Arlington. The topic of the North American Conference to host Polka are planned, and tea sandwiches and age children are invited to gather the lecture will be “Why Do Catholics of Divorced Catholics, Catholic hot tea will be served. Auction items Mass Nov. 12 in the school library for a morning Eat Fish on Friday? — The Catholic Divorced Ministry Region 10. The will include a two-night, weekend St. Rita Garden The Catholic community of Sacred of stories, songs, a “Turkey Play,” Origin to Just About Everything,” evening of fellowship and dancing stay at the Gaylord Texan, a two- Heart Parish, Seymour, welcomes snacks, and colorful crafts. Although given by author and lecturer Michael will take place in the parish’s Family Club to host art hour cruise on Lake Grapevine, all its neighbors to the celebration the party is designed for children Foley, assistant professor of patristics Life Center Saturday, Dec. 9, from 8 and a party for 15 kids at KidzMuze of a Polka Mass Sunday, Nov. 12, ages 2 to 6, older and younger sib- at Baylor University. p.m. until midnight. sale Nov. 5 Museum. The St. Rita Garden Club has an- beginning at 11 a.m. lings are welcome to attend as well. The cost is $50, including dinner. Those interested in participating There is no admission fee. For nounced that it will be hosting an art The liturgy will be followed by a Non-parish friends and family are For more information, call the Col- are asked to bring a dish to share for more information, contact Wendy sale Sunday, Nov. 5, from 2 p.m. to 5 Czech Olde World Dinner at Sacred welcome too. lege of St. Thomas More at (817) a potluck dinner. A DJ will provide Cronin at (972) 906-9982 or e-mail p.m. in the Formation Room (enter Heart’s Mosler Hall on North Cedar Admission is free; reservations are 923-8459 or visit online at www. the music. to [email protected]. from the parking lot on the side) at Street until 1:30 p.m. The cost of the appreciated. For more information, cstm.edu. The cost is $6 per person. For St. Rita Church, 5550 East Lancaster meal, which will include Bohemian call (817) 419-6800. more information or to RSVP, call sausage, turkey, and kolaches, is Monica Molina at (817) 737-6768, Avenue in East Fort Worth. Featured at the sale will be original $8 for adults and $5 for children. Vince Chairez at (817) 896-5726, or Boots ’n Bow Carryout meals are also available Sylvia Salinas (817) 845-2718. oil paintings of Mary Shaw. There Ties Auction to are 11 paintings in all, signed for $8. and framed and in various sizes, An auction will follow, and a be held at St. depicting landscapes, florals, and country store will offer baked goods Nolan Catholic John School, still lifes. and crafts. The Garden Club will provide Seymour is located two-and-a-half High School Nov. 11 refreshments and snacks during hours from Fort Worth, going 199 to host Open St. John the Apostle School, 7421 the art sale. west to Jacksboro and then 114 west Glenview Drive in North Richland For more information, contact the to Seymour. For more information, House Hills, will host its annual Boots ’n parish office at (817) 451-9395. contact the parish office at (940) Nolan Catholic High School will Bow Ties Auction Saturday, Nov. 889-5252. host an open house Sunday, Nov. 12, 11, in the school gym. The event from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The event is will begin at 6 p.m. and continue an opportunity for parents to learn until 1 a.m. St. Thomas Church to host annual more about the school and to meet Dinner will be catered by the and visit with administrators and Outback Steakhouse, and there will turkey dinner Nov. 12 students. be music for dancing. Live and silent All are invited to attend the an- Turkey and dressing with all the Nolan Catholic is located at 4501 auctions will take place throughout nual turkey dinner sponsored by trimmings will be served after all the RESTING SPOT — The Ladies Group of St. John the Baptizer Parish in Bridge Street in East Fort Worth. the evening. the Women’s Organization of St. Masses. Carryout plates will also be Bridgeport recently donated three cement benches for the walkway leading into For more information about Nolan Ticket prices are $40 per person. Thomas the Apostle Church, 2920 available. The cost of a large plate the church. After helping to set up the benches, (l. to r.) Gene Anderle, Beau Catholic, visit the school’s Web site For reservations or for more infor- Azle Avenue in Fort Worth. The is $7, and small plates are avail- Hall, and John Cortez were among the first to benefit from this new addition at www.nolancatholichs.org, or mation, contact Pam Lazenby at the meal will be held Sunday, Nov. able for $4. to the parish grounds. The women of the parish were able to raise funds for the call Maureen Barisonek, director of school office at (817) 284-2228, or 12, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the For more information, contact the benches’ purchase by holding monthly bake sales. recruitment, at (817) 457-2920. e-mail to [email protected]. parish hall. parish office at (817) 624-2184. Page 6 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Diocesan Father John Dear challenges others to practice Jesus’ example of non-violence

By Mark Schatzman lent small group discussions, Correspondent especially those associated with More than 100 people of vari- “I learned more Pax Christi and Pace Bene, and ous faiths, ages, and backgrounds about the Scriptures suggests that positive social gathered at the Catholic Renewal change happens when people Center of North Texas in East Fort in jail than in the four take risks for the good of all. This Worth to listen to Father John is precisely what Jesus calls us to Dear, SJ, speak on “Jesus, Bearer years of seminary. It do, Fr. Dear said, noting that we of God’s Peace and Justice.” This was perhaps the most must cease being the “church of presentation was arranged by accommodation” no matter what the Sisters of St. Mary of Namur profound spiritual our faith. We must focus on an and the diocesan Offi ce of Peace experience of my life issue — whether it’s the death PREPARING FOR ALL SAINTS — Sacred Heart Parish in Wichita and Justice. penalty, abortion, the poor, the Falls recently hosted a couple of family gatherings in preparation for All Fr. Dear, a 47-year-old Jesuit — to truly live out the war, violence, or whatever — and Saints Day, a holy day celebrated by the Catholic Church Nov. 1. Close priest who is currently living act, he insisted. to 70 families participated, creating family pennants and learning more in New Mexico, kept the large call of Jesus for peace.” Stressing that today’s culture about the saints. As a concluding activity, a special “Pumpkin Prayer” group engaged with his personal is based on killing our enemies, was offered while a pumpkin was carved using Christian symbols. history of non-violence and how — Father John Dear, SJ Fr. Dear invited those gathered to Brandon Malone and Cecilia Parker are shown getting a closer look at the unique carvings. Fun was had by all, stated Linda Price, parish he continually tries to emulate the re-read the Sermon on the Mount director of religious education. non-violent teachings of Jesus. with today’s headlines in mind Fr. Dear, a prolifi c writer with the others.” and then truly act as sons and over nine books on non-violence Engaging in civil disobedi- daughters of peace. Actor Tom Key to perform to his credit, not only writes on ence for years, Fr. Dear has non-violence but he “walks the been arrested in the name of Those interested in learning more ‘Screwtape in Person’ Nov. 11 talk.” Jesus’ peace more than 70 times, about Fr. John Dear’s call to non- Using the foundation of Jesus’ spending eight months in jail violence should consider reading “Screwtape in Person,” a pro- Gresham. His award-winning teachings on peace (examine the for one particular non-violent his books, including JESUS THE gram based on C.S. Lewis’s The performances from off-Broad- Sermon on the Mount for clari- demonstration. REBEL: BEARER OF GOD’S PEACE AND Screwtape Letters, will be present- way to Los Angeles include the fi cation), Fr. Dear recounted his “I learned more about the JUSTICE, or visiting his Web site at ed by actor Tom Key at Highland celebrated musical “Cotton Patch actions in numerous war zones Scriptures in jail than in the four www.FatherJohnDear.org. For more Park Presbyterian Church, 3821 Gospel,” which he co-authored across the world. He spoke of years of seminary,” Fr. Dear ex- information on small groups con- University Boulevard in Dallas, with the late singer-songwriter wars and murders enacted in the plained. “It was perhaps the most cerned with non-violence, contact Saturday, Nov. 11. Check-in will Harry Chapin. “name of God” and challenged profound spiritual experience of Ralph McCloud, diocesan director begin at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for “Screwtape in the assembly to return to the my life — to truly live out the call of the Offi ce of Peace and Justice at The event, which will include Person” are $70; cocktail attire is teachings of the Beatitudes and of Jesus for peace.” [email protected] or (817) 560- a silent auction and dinner, will requested. For tickets or for more “love your enemies” as Jesus Fr. Dear advocates non-vio- 3300 ext. 305. benefi t the College of St. Thomas information, call Nancy Lovell at specifi cally told us to do — not More in Fort Worth and the C.S. (214) 363-7799. “love your friends and nuke all Lewis Center for the Study of the Common Tradition. According to an event press release, Tom Key has brought C.S. Lewis to life before audiences throughout the United States and Britain, including Oxford, where he appeared at the request of Lewis’s stepson, Douglas St. Vincent de Paul Men’s Club will host golf IRAs • 401(k)s • Pension Rollovers tournament We’re the % The St. Vincent de Paul Men’s Rollover Club will sponsor a golf tourna- APR ment Saturday, Nov. 11, at Mans- Specialists 5.25 fi eld National Golf Course, 2750 Retiring? Switching Jobs? Changing Careers? National Parkway in Mansfi eld. Starting a New Business? Roll Your Money Over to Us The tournament, to played in a and Watch it Grow! four-man Florida scramble for- mat, will have a 1 p.m. shotgun Meet the Specialists in Your Area start. Ray Lindemann Pat Knabe Alvin Jungman The cost is $65 per person, or Scotland any donation will be accepted. Muenster Seymour According to an event press 940-423-6495 940-759-2888 940-888-2069 release, the tournament will ben- efi t Holy Rosary School, Autism Phillip Flusche Mike Dieter Dennis Hess Speaks, and Harold Weidhaas. Muenster Lindsay Muenster All are welcome to join in the 940-759-5010 940-665-5846 940-759-2750 fun. To register or to make a dona- tion, call Brian Murphy at (817) 451-9144 or e-mail to bkmurphy@ *Includes Current Yield + 1% First Year Bonus. Interest rates are sbcglobal.net; or call Pat Irwin at subject to change & vary by plan. Rate guaranteed for 1st year. Minimum (817) 919-0485. guarantee is 3.00% SS 10-06 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 7 Diocesan

Special Collection: Sr. Rita Critser, IHM, former Catholic Catholic Communication Charities social worker, dies at age 85 Sister Rita Critser, 85, a mem- and became Catholic Charities’ location in the Campaign ber of the Immaculate Heart of trained as a Hurst-Euless-Bedford area. Mary (IHM) religious congrega- midwife and “She was a very special per- tion for 57 years, died Oct. 15 at labor coach son,” said Landis. “She loved the IHM motherhouse located in in order to young people, and she remained Monroe, Michigan. She worked more fully close to many of the girls that she for Catholic Charities in the assist and had cared for in the schools where Diocese of Fort Worth from 1987 support the she worked. She was also very to 1993. needs of un- good at raising funds to assist Born to Bertha (Keller) and wed moth- with the good causes in which Sister Rita Earle Critser in New Albany, ers. Sr. Rita she was involved.” Critser, IHM Indiana, Sept. 14, 1921, Sr. Rita then came to Sr. Rita retired from active was the eldest of three daughters. the Diocese of Fort Worth in order ministry and returned to the IHM She entered the IHM convent to live in closer proximity to her motherhouse in 1994. in June 1939 and professed her sister, Martha Landis, a parishio- In addition to her sister Mar- fi nal vows fi ve years later. Taking ner at St. Vincent de Paul Church tha Landis, Sr. Rita is survived the religious name of Sr. Mary in Arlington. At the suggestion of by her sister Rosemary Schmidt Lambert, she taught in Catholic Father Philip Johnson, then pas- of Michigan, and by several schools for 30 years. tor at St. Vincent’s, Sr. Rita began nieces and nephews, including Following her years of service her work for Catholic Charities, Nolan Catholic High School as an educator, Sr. Rita began serving as a fi nancial counselor to faculty member Catherine Buck- her career as a social worker, needy individuals who came to ingham. James Joyce novel will be focus of Faith and Fiction gathering Nov. 16 “Faith and Fiction: Conversa- Man by James Joyce. Future meeting dates and tions on Spirituality and Imagi- Those planning to participate the topics of discussion are as nation,” a venue for discussing are asked to read the book, refl ect follows: Dec. 14, “The Remains novels and fi lms with themes that on it in light of personal experi- of the Day,” a fi lm directed by shed light on the journey of faith, ences, and come to the session James Ivory; Jan. 18, The Brothers will meet Thursday, Nov. 16, at with questions, insights, or Karamazov, by Fydor Dostoevski; the Catholic Renewal Center, observations to share. A potluck and Feb. 15, Stones from the River, 4503 Bridge Street, Fort Worth. supper will be served at 6:15 p.m., by Ursula Hegi. The topic of discussion will be and the discussion will take place To ensure good conversation, Portrait of the Artist as a Young from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. space will be limited. To reserve a spot or for more information, contact Dan Luby at (817) 560- 2452 ext. 259, or by e-mail to TRIDENTINE MASS [email protected]. Latin Indult Mass : p.m. Sundays NTC deadlines St. Mary of the Assumption Church for submission  W. Magnolia, Fort Worth The North Texas Catholic High Mass Second and Fourth sundays is published twice monthly, Low Mass First and Third Sundays except during the months of June, July, and August when it is published monthly. The (VFDSH&ROGHU:HDWKHU$QG deadline to submit informa- -RLQ

Father Robert Strittmatter SIM helps get much-needed baptizes an infant at San Mateo projects off the ground Mission. The mission has witnessed FROM PAGE 1 tremendous “During this, our 24th cam- growth in paign, the generosity of our its religious Catholic families in the diocese education continues to inspire me,” says program — a John Honaman, director of 200 percent Stewardship and Development. increase in “Through the continued prayers two years. An of all of us, I am hopeful dona- SIM matching tions will set an all-time record grant will this year.” help the burgeoning For Hymel and the 229 stu- community dents who attend St. Rita School, create more Parishioners of San Mateo Mission in Fort Worth are working hard to raise assistance can’t come soon room for enough. The school’s fl at roof $100,000 in order to receive a matching grant from Sharing in Ministry. Plans are to tear down these two older structures to make way for a new religious its growing enables rainwater to pool for education building. (Photo by Donna Ryckaert) needs. (Photo several days before the sun dries by Donna it up. nated is given directly to parishes project through Sharing in Minis- Ryckaert) “Parent volunteers have or schools for specifi c projects. try,” Honaman says. “They want patched the roof many times, Catholic families in the diocese everyone to know how grateful “We have to take pride in our relatives. He and his wife, Cecilia but some of the leaks are hard are generous when the collection they are.” parish, get involved, and show returned to the Metroplex last to fi nd,” the principal explains. basket is passed each Sunday, but Parishioners of San Mateo the diocese we can raise the spring and agreed to settle in “Moisture gets beneath the “for many communities, the sup- Mission in Fort Worth are hoping money,” he says. SIM money is an Henrietta. Sharing in Ministry shingles and moves.” port is not enough to meet their for similar support as they try to incentive to “get people pumped will cover a portion of the ex- Estimates to repair or replace needs, and that’s exactly where raise money for a religious educa- up and give them the drive to penses incurred by the deacon the roof range from $3,000 to funds from Sharing in Ministry tion building. The predominantly accomplish this.” as he assists the rural pastor with $90,000. The school commu- come in,” Honaman explains. Hispanic, center-city parish has Plans are in the early stages, his cluster of parishes. nity is appreciative for any help The Sunday offering, supple- outgrown the small, worn-out but Barbosa is confi dent the 200 “For the past four years, I’ve from Sharing in Ministry it can mented with money donated to church building where classes families registered at San Mateo relied on volunteer help almost receive. the diocesan appeal by families are currently held three evenings will work to make a religious exclusively,” Fr. Berg explains. “Money is always an issue in throughout the diocese, can make a week because of the lack of education building a reality. “When I came here, the only paid Catholic schools. We operate on a tremendous impact on the lives space. “We’re going to do it,” he employee was the priest.” a very tight budget,” the educa- of thousands of people. In past “We just don’t have enough promises, adding he just isn’t sure Since his arrival, Deacon tor points out. “Tuition wouldn’t years, Sharing in Ministry helped room for the children we have of the timing at this point. Detwiler has spent time visiting begin to cover the cost of fi xing repair a rural church severely in our religious instruction Raising thousands of dollars the sick, helping with religious the roof. Without help from the damaged by a spring storm and program,” says Father Robert is a monumental task, but “the formation, and cataloging inven- diocese, we would just keep provided another country parish Strittmatter, the priest in charge needs are there,” admits Msgr. tory at each parish for insurance patching the problem.” with a much-needed paved park- of the parish, a mission of St. Hubert Neu, St. Patrick pastor. purposes. Although the Annual Dioc- ing lot. Most recently, Catholics Patrick Cathedral. “Some new Two buildings currently used “Having him here is a real esan Appeal supports a myriad living in Morgan, a small town classrooms and office space by San Mateo for meeting and blessing,” the pastor says. “He’s of causes — from Catholic Chari- at the southern tip of the diocese, would help.” administrative purposes — an somebody I respect, who shares ties to faith formation programs were grateful for the assistance Two hundred youngsters are old house and an old church my concerns. We have a similar — one-third of the money do- given in building a $282,000 par- currently enrolled in classes, and building — should be torn down outlook toward people, and the ish hall for Our parish leader Simon Sanchez ex- because of age, space, and design parishes are benefi ting from his Lady of Guadal- pects those numbers to climb. considerations. good management experience.” upe Church. “Our numbers have increased “Without help from Sharing in This extra pair of helping Fort Worth 200 percent in the past two years, Ministry, places like San Mateo hands provides a sense of bal- Bishop Kevin and we anticipate that trend con- would never [be able to] afford ance to the rural ministry that Vann joined pa- tinuing,” says the building com- the buildings they need,” Msgr. serves 450 households, three rishioners in cel- mittee member. “Adult education Neu explains. “I’m encouraging hospitals, seven nursing homes, ebrating the new in Spanish and English is growing the people to work toward it.” and two jails. religious educa- as well, so that’s a factor.” Making necessary improve- “I can be more proactive than tion/community Organizers are hoping that ments or adding staff is always reactive now,” Fr. Berg notes. space during a $50,000 matching grant from a struggle for small parishes. “There’s more time to plan, and dedication cer- Sharing in Ministry will generate Nobody knows that better than we’re planning farther ahead.” emonies Oct. 5. support for a new parish build- Father Steve Berg, who has The Sharing in Ministry grant, The new building ing to house fi ve classrooms and juggled the demands of four rural which will pay the deacon’s travel is the culmina- two offi ces. churches for the past four years. expenditures, is a gift appreciated tion of fi ve years The mission received assis- On a typical weekend, the priest by the rural Catholics. of planning and tance from the Annual Diocesan travels 80 miles to say Mass and “Sharing in Ministry is the con- sacrifice by the Appeal once before, remembers hear confessions at St. William in nection between the diocese and struggling rural Ernie Barbosa. Montague, St. Joseph in Nocona, these outlying parishes,” Fr. Berg community of “Without help from the dio- St. Jerome in Bowie, and St. Mary adds. “The people feel included 68 families that cese, we couldn’t have built our in Henrietta. Add sick and be- and less isolated.” manages to col- new church. Sharing in Ministry reavement calls, administrative Detwiler, who served Sacred lect $485 in offer- was the impetus to get that go- tasks, and counseling to his list of Heart Church in Wichita Falls ings each week. ing,” explains the fundraising appointments, and the schedule before moving away, is enjoying Olivia Wilson (left) and Cassandra Reyes, students at “Everyone in chairman. is exhausting. the country lifestyle. St. Rita School in East Fort Worth, exit a pew after a Morgan was so Before starting another major Help finally arrived last “It’s busy, but not fast-paced,” school Mass. Despite recent drought conditions in North thankful to their construction project, members of spring in the form of Russ De- he says. “They’re beautiful little Texas, St. Rita Principal Charlene Hymel gets nervous ‘angels’ in the San Mateo must raise $100,000 to twiler. Ordained a permanent parishes, and the people are won- when she sees rain clouds develop because of the major Diocese of Fort receive the matching grant. Bar- deacon in the diocese 11 years derful. A deacon is supposed to leaks present throughout the school facility. A Sharing in Ministry grant will help the school to pay for these much- Worth who con- bosa believes placing a stipula- ago, Detwiler moved back to serve, so I’m here to do whatever needed repairs. (Photo by Donna Ryckaert) tributed to the tion on the gift is a good idea. Michigan in 2001 to be closer to they need.” NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 9 State Elections The two documents that follow were issued by the Texas Catholic Conference on behalf of the bishops of Texas to offer general guidance 2006 to Catholic voters for the 2006 elections. In this fi le photo from 2004, voters cast their ballots during early voting at the Miami Government Center. As the 2006 midterm elections near, one constant in bishops’ pre-election messages has been that Catholics must vote. In 37 states voters are facing referendum issues raising moral concerns. (CNS photo/Karen Callaway)

October 19, 2006 Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ:

ur airwaves have been fi lled with dignity of all human persons calls us to work 3. PURSUING SOCIAL JUSTICE. We globe. We bring our vision and values to the political ads as we prepare for the to end abortion, euthanasia, destruction of show God’s special concern for the poor and changing global economic structures. ONovember elections. We write to human embryos, cloning, assisted suicide, vulnerable by supporting programs that cre- you to encourage you to exercise the impor- intentional targeting of civilians in war or ate living wage jobs, make health care more We ask you to use these Christian principles tant privilege and responsibility we have as terrorist attacks, and the use of the death affordable and accessible, provide income to measure the various candidates and what citizens by voting. penalty. This principle leads us to seek security for low and average wage work- they bring to the service of our government peace, raise serious questions about the ers at retirement, offer safe and affordable and society at large. We also ask that you con- The Catholic Church does not endorse preemptive use of force. housing, protect family farmers and farm sider the following rights and duties as a part specifi c candidates. However, we do uphold workers, and bring about just immigration of properly forming your conscience. Please important principles outlined by our bish- 2. PROMOTING FAMILY LIFE. We reform. We seek public policies that work to pray, think, and vote so that we as Christians ops’ conference in the document “Faithful defend marriage between a man and a end poverty, hunger, and discrimination. will exercise the great privilege that is ours to Citizenship.” woman, work for just wages, and the protec- participate in the democratic process and to tion of children. We support parental choice 4. PRACTICING GLOBAL SOLIDARITY. uphold the values of Christ in our society. Issues to Consider in education, responsible use of media, and We work to alleviate poverty worldwide, technology, and vigorous enforcement of strengthen barriers against the use of nuclear Prepared by 1. PROTECTING HUMAN LIFE. Our existing pornography laws. weapons and reduce the global arms trade, Bishop Gregory Aymond foundational principle to protect the life and protect refugees, and end confl icts around the Bishop of Austin

Rights and Duties:

e, the Catholic Bishops of Texas, to carry them out in light of the truth of and at the same time incorrect about what is vote for a candidate who is not totally accept- exercising our role as teachers, faith and reason as taught by the Catholic good and evil. able in order to defeat one who poses an even Woffer the following guidelines Church. For example, they are called to greater threat to human life and dignity. to help Catholics form their consciences on respect human authority and obey those A CONSCIENTIOUS VOTER’S DILEMMA. matters related to our most basic obligation who govern society “for the Lord’s sake” (1 In light of the above, it is a correct judgment VOTING IS A MORAL ACT. of citizenship: voting. The following guide- Peter 2:13-17). of conscience that we would commit moral It involves duties and responsibilities. Our lines are intended for educational purposes evil if we were to vote for a candidate who duty is to vote in keeping with a conscience only. We do not intend to endorse or oppose THE DUTY TO FORM AND FOLLOW takes a permissive stand on those actions that properly formed by fundamental moral any particular candidate, political party, ONE’S CONSCIENCE. are intrinsically evil when there is a morally- principles. As Bishops we are not telling or political action committee. Rather, it is We are conscientious voters when we are acceptable alternative. What are we to do, Catholics which candidates they should vote our hope that these guidelines will show guided by our consciences. Conscience is though, when there is no such alternative? for. Rather, we simply want to teach how we how our Catholic faith and human reason a law “written” by God on our hearts that should form our consciences and consider shapes our thinking, choosing, and acting disposes us to love and to do good and avoid BECAUSE WE HAVE A MORAL the issues in light of these fundamental in daily life. evil (cf. Romans 2:12-16). The conscience OBLIGATION TO VOTE, moral principles. is like an inner voice that has the authority deciding not to vote at all is not ordinarily THE RIGHT AND DUTY TO VOTE. of the very voice of God. We have a serious an acceptable solution to this dilemma. So, Catholics live in the world, but they should duty to follow the guidance of conscience. To when there is no choice of a candidate that Originally approved and released by not live by worldly values that give too act against the judgment of conscience when avoids supporting intrinsically evil actions, the Kansas Catholic Conference with much importance to power, possessions, it is certain about what is good and evil has especially elective abortion, we should vote signatures of all the bishops. and pleasure as ends in themselves (cf. 1 the same seriousness as disobeying God. in such a way as to allow the least harm to in- Adopted, approved, and released by John 2:16). Catholics have the same rights It is important to remember however that it nocent human life and dignity. We would not the Texas Catholic Conference with and duties as other citizens, but are called is possible for our conscience to be certain be acting immorally therefore if we were to signatures of all the bishops of Texas. Page 10 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Viewpoints True reverence prepares our hearts for worship

By Dan Luby reverence. How, I wondered, to imagine its core? I’ve been thinking about reverence a I mentioned all this to my wife, er silent greeting is ex- lot lately, ever since I sat in on a listen- lamenting my inability to fi nd the right Respectful and ing session in one of the parishes of our way to express this important reality. pected now, one of the diocese recently. They’re developing a Later that morning she called, my muse, affectionate presence, comprehensive pastoral plan and, wisely, to say that the image for reverence that comforting certainties the pastor and his advisors have orga- had come to her was the memory of our H open hearted nized an extensive series of meetings for friend’s weekly greeting from the back on which my wife and I count parishioners to express their hopes and pew. when we go to our “regular” welcome, joy in dreams, their complaints and questions Respectful and affectionate presence, and kudos, regarding life in the parish. open hearted welcome, joy in recog- Mass and sit in “our” pew on recognizing the other, On the morning I’d been invited to nizing the other, eagerness to share observe, there was much mention of good news, confi dent expectation of Sunday mornings. eagerness to share “reverence.” People wanted more of it, something wonderful about to hap- Our long-time friend sits in the same in a variety of settings, but chiefl y on pen — these, it seems to me, are indeed place with her mom and dad every good news, confi dent Sunday mornings at Mass. signs of deep reverence. week, always on the aisle, in a pew in They cited some of the more egre- Most of what happens at church to the very last row, right in the thick of expectation of gious violations of liturgical decorum communicate a lack of reverence arises the heaviest foot traffi c. Whether we — watch alarms chiming during the more from inattention than from malice. have gotten there early enough to walk readings, loudly whispered side con- And sometimes it’s easy to let my own sedately to our seats, or are rushing at something wonderful versations, chewing gum in the Com- annoyance at the perceived irreverence the last minute, she and her folks are munion line, ostentatious checking of of others divert my attention from the always there, well settled in their places. about to happen — watches during the homily, and, my loving openness to Christ’s palpable I suspect they come pretty early, at least favorite liturgical blood pressure spiker, presence, uniquely on the altar of partly because she is so eager to be these, it seems to me, answering cell phones and conducting sacrifi ce, but in the priest and the Word there. conversations during Mass(!). I nodded proclaimed, and the people gathered as When she spots us, her face bright- are indeed signs of in agreement, and my own irritation at well. ens, her dark eyes glittering and her such behavior surged as I remembered This Sunday, when we greet our sweet face breaking into a welcoming deep reverence. similar experiences. friend again, I will say an extra prayer smile. As we pass by, she turns in her Reading between the lines, I suspect of thanks for her example. May we all seat to reach out, always tentatively, to they were also expressing a desire for be fi lled with the same spirit of rever- hold our hands. This homemade ritual exchange of more silence inside the worship space, ence. Mostly, she remains silent when she mutual recognition and affection helps more attention given to the dialogue of Dan Luby is the director of greets us. Once in a great while she will ready me for the great celebration of the liturgy, listening more carefully and Christian Formation for the hold up two or three fi ngers and whis- love and grace which follows. Seeing responding more intentionally. Again, diocese. In May, for the third per very softly, but with conspiratorial our friend, receiving her warm smile I was sympathetic to these implied rec- time, his column received fi rst intensity, words to the effect that Christ- and heartfelt welcome always quiets ommendations. place honors among regular mas is coming in two weeks, or three. me, helps me to let go of the preoccupa- But I was troubled too. Because it’s columns on spiritual life in Her anticipation is palpable, whatever tions tugging at my thoughts, to become possible to have all these things — si- the Catholic press of the U.S. the season. present to who I am, who we all are, lence and decorum and fi xed gazes and and Canada. Dan’s column earned the same We smile and whisper our hellos and and who we belong to. folded hands and crisp responses and all recognition in 2001 and again in 2003. Dan pat her on the shoulder before we move That kind of presence, it seems to me, the other outward markers of traditional and his wife, Theresa, have two children, forward to our places. is a good way to imagine the virtue of piety — without genuine reverence. Kate and Peter. Jesus calls leaders to walk path of ‘littleness’

By Mary Morrell ties for mentally handicapped persons, others, we do so with even more respect Unfortunately, positions of authority relayed the story of Peter, a diffi cult man as we realize their life is holy. When often become positions of power and “How does Jesus want us to imitate who absolutely refused to communicate Jesus washes his disciples’ feet and asks privilege, doing more for the self-image him? Jesus is asking us to follow him with anyone. He was completely closed us to do the same, is he not showing us of those who exercise it than for those on a path of littleness, forgiveness, trust, up in himself. One day it was discovered the importance of meeting each other, whom they serve. communion, and vulnerability....” that Peter had athlete’s foot, and so, each touching each other, with simplicity, That is why the image of the Good — Jean Vanier day it became necessary for someone to gentleness, and great respect, because Shepherd, or of Jesus washing the feet ecently, while visiting a nearby bathe his feet three times a day and apply each person is precious?” of the disciples, is so powerful — it parish, I watched the efforts of a a medication. Vanier asks another an important reminds us that Jesus calls us to exer- Ryoung mother who was attempt- Vanier continued, “From the day we question, especially for those who carry cise authority humbly, as a service, to ing to correct her mentally challenged started to touch and bathe his feet, Peter the responsibility of Christian lead- be constructive not destructive. This is son as he repeatedly spoke out loud began to open up. His whole attitude to- ership: “How does Jesus want us to a call to littleness, a call to live as Jesus during Mass. For a time her efforts ward us changed. This showed us once imitate him? Jesus is asking us to follow taught: They came to Capernaum, and were met with an increasingly audible again the importance of the washing of him on a path of littleness, forgiveness, when he got into the house he asked spilling-out of words, but eventually, the feet,” adding that over time he be- trust, communion, and vulnerability them: “What were you arguing about on taking his hand and stroking his face as came more aware of the importance of — without giving up, at other moments, the road?” They said nothing, because she fi rmly corrected him, he turned his Paul’s words: “Do you not realize that our role of responsibility where we exer- on the road they had been arguing attention to her. The calling out ended, you are a temple of the Holy Spirit, who cise authority with … justice, kindness, about which of them was the greatest. and they sat, hand in hand, in the pew is in you and whom you received from and fi rmness.” So he sat down, called the twelve to him until Mass was over. God in you? . . . So use your body for It is interesting to note that the word and said: “If anyone wants to be fi rst, In watching the exchange I was re- the glory of God” (1Corinthians 6:19). “authority” comes from the Latin word he must make himself last of all — and minded of a story relayed by Jean Vanier “If the body is truly the dwelling “augere” which means to grow. And servant of all.” in his book, The Scandal of Service: Jesus place of God, a holy ground, then all that is no accident, because all authority Mary Regina Morrell, is the associate direc- Washes Our Feet. Vanier, who was the our relationships are transformed,” is intended to help people grow toward tor of the offi ce of religious education for the founder of L’Arche (the Ark) communi- wrote Vanier. “When we meet and touch greater freedom, justice, and truth. Diocese of Metuchen, in New Jersey. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 11 Views

Halloween costumes and child- The ForgottenWar rearing. It’s all pretty on poverty Incredible By Stephen Kent By Kathy Cribari Hamer

midst the pub- unny place to fi nd saints, but I licity surround- did see a large number of them ing the current o be impoverished in the richest F A T recently at a Fort Worth Hal- incarnation, an ear- country in the world is to be an loween celebration Boo at the Zoo. lier metaphorical war They were called parents. should not be over- internal alien, [to be a member of] They were carrying infants, pulling wagons, repo- looked. another culture that is radically sitioning crowns, horns, and tails. There was even a That is the War on Poverty, family of “Incredibles,” in matching red, super-hero declared by a president of the costumes. United States more than four different from the one that Pushing a stroller loaded with what was almost decades ago. It is ongoing and, certainly an incredible baby, was the dad, “Bob,” whose with poverty more than hold- dominates society. spandex jumpsuit with stuffed muscles made him look ing its own, victory appears no more uncomfortable than powerful. He seemed as if closer. — Allison Boisvert, a social worker for 22 years. he would be more at ease in an everyday business- There are some 37 million man persona than the one he and his wife “Helen” had people in the United States today adopted that night at the zoo. Their matching children, living under the poverty line, ac- “Violet, Dash, and Jack-Jack,” however, seemed com- cording to an annual report from getting by.” off from resources, causing fortable in their roles, and with their bulging bags of the U.S. Census Bureau. That A single parent of two, them to remain in poverty. Be- candy. number represents 12.6 percent working full time at the ing “not statistically different” “How do you take an average dad, and talk him into of the nation’s population. minimum wage would gross from one year to the next is no dressing up like that?” I wondered aloud.” “Oh, I don’t The federal government $10,812, only two-thirds of the victory. A “culture of poverty” know,” my son-in-law Dustin immediately retorted, defi nes the poverty level to be $15,577 defi ned as the poverty is growing in the United States, with a twisted grin. “Ever heard of the M&M family?” $19,971 for a family of four. level for a family of three. a social worker told the Catho- “Okay,” I admitted. “One year I did sew different While the poverty level in “I’m afraid that we are cre- lic Charities convention, result- colored M&M’s for each of my children to wear. But 2005 remained “statistically ating a permanent underclass ing in generational poverty you’ll notice there was no body-clinging stretchiness, unchanged” from 2004, the of people who leave welfare affecting two more generations nor metallic-shiny fabric involved, and the M&M pack- Census Bureau said median but cannot escape long-term of a family. age costume I wore was completely squared off, show- household income rose by 1 poverty,” said Father Larry “I’ve watched the develop- ing only my lower limbs out of the bottom hem. percent, reaching $46,326. The Snyder, president of Catholic ment and the fi nal institutional- “Sure, I made a mistake in dressing as the yellow median income is the point Charities USA. “These families ization of a permanent un- bag for ‘peanut M&M’s,’ while the children all went where half make more, half continue to work two or three derclass in the richest country as ‘plain M&M’s,’ which — duh — should have come make less. While obviously jobs, but still cannot provide in the world,” said Allison from a dark brown package. But maybe I wasn’t their some must be at the top, some for their families’ basic needs,” Boisvert, a social worker for 22 Momma Package at all, as onlookers may have expect- must be at the bottom, the gap he said. years. “To be impoverished in ed. Perhaps instead I was an older sister, a stepmother, — which is widening — need the richest country in the world or the chocolate-children’s benevolent Aunt M. not be so great. In fact, biblical atholic Charities agen- is to be an internal alien, [to be “Seriously, I think we may well have been a por- justice demands the gap not be cies nationwide are on a member of] another culture trayal of the fi rst ever ‘blended’ M&M family,” I told great. the front line meeting that is radically different from Dustin. “Face it, in the world of Halloween dress-up, I C was cutting-edge, melt-in-your-mouth politically cor- One would think the fact these people. The number of the one that dominates society,” that one of eight citizens in the people receiving emergency she said. rect — and with a thin candy coating.” world’s largest economy lives services from Catholic Charities Poverty is unacceptable to It is much easier to walk around a fall carnival with in poverty would be continual — food, shelter, clothing — has Christian justice. In this coun- your grandchildren, I have discovered, than it ever was front page news. increased by 30 per cent in the try especially, it is by no means to do so with your children. But this is not because of One reason that it is not past three years, Fr. Snyder said insurmountable. the “love them, spoil them, and give them back” cliché, results from the major overhaul at his agency’s national conven- that people have been using since long before I under- in the welfare system 10 years tion in September. he words of Christ, “The stood what it meant. ago. Proposed changes in welfare poor you will always When I fi rst heard that, I wondered, “Why would Politicians delight in point- laws will further impact these have with you” were anyone ever want to give children back?” I would love T to keep them, I knew, and to be the one who fed them, ing out the decline in the num- numbers. never meant to be an expres- ber receiving public assistance. Politicians, especially in sion of resignation or futility helped them with homework, made shampoo-ice- About 4.4 million families election years, trumpet the nor an excuse for the lack of cream cones with their hair at night in the bathtub. received welfare payments in declining number of welfare concern that we must have for Parenting was a job I never wanted to quit early, 1996; about 1.9 million receive clients. There are, however, not the poor. because that would have meant giving up the signifi - payments today. fewer poor people — just fewer The war on poverty is not cant memory of looking through a rearview mirror and “Most of the people who poor people receiving help. one from which we can cut and watching chubby cheeks chewing oatmeal cookies or leave welfare for work are But we should be made run. whatever after school treat I may have brought along leaving for jobs that pay $7 or uncomfortable — very uncom- for their three-o’clock snack. $8 an hour,” said Joan Entm- fortable — by the challenges to Stephen Kent is the recently Even worse, I may have missed some of the memories acher of the National Women’s justice this represents. Reduc- retired editor of THE PROGRESS, the that even today sit on the bronzed-baby-shoe-shelf of my Law Center. “Under the best ing welfare rolls is no comfort Catholic newspaper of the Diocese mind: the sight of children running from the school door of circumstances, they are just when it means cutting people of Seattle. See HAMER, p. 22 Page 12 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Diocesan

At annual diocesan Singles Mass, Bishop Kevin Vann reminds the assembly that . . . DDespiteespite oourur ddifferences,ifferences, God connects us through faith STORY AND PHOTOS BY KATHY CRIBARI HAMER, CORRESPONDENT

n paper and online, Catholic OOsingles of the Diocese of Fort Worth have been defi ned as “young ones and once young”; divorced, sepa- rated, widowed, or nev- er married; and people committed to helping build ministries through activities that support Above: Bishop Vann greets members of the assembly at the conclusion of the and assist parish-based Singles Mass, celebrated Oct. 7 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Keller. Right: Bishop programs. Vann, assisted by Deacon But at their annual singles Don Warner, Mass and dinner, Bishop Kevin presides at Vann defi ned them differently, the annual and in one word: Crystal. diocesan In his homily at the Oct. 7 Singles Mass. Mass at Keller’s St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Bishop Vann Left and Below: looked out at the crowd in the Singles take part in icebreaker activities church’s two center sections at the social and told a story of a woman following the liturgy. he had met while a pastor, when he went out regularly on “Communion calls.” “She was 85 or 90, and had Above: Members of the congregation been a fl apper!” Bishop Vann join hands while related. “We got along pretty praying the Our well, and when I left that par- Father. ish, she gave me a crystal.” The bishop explained that when Right: Bishop she held the crystal up to the Vann makes a few light, the light shone through comments at the and scattered. “You had to look mixer following at all of it,” the bishop said, the Singles Mass, “and in one sense, that crystal as Diocesan Singles Council reminded me of our faith. representatives Mike “Like the crystal, our faith is Wuller and Sylvia an entity,” he said, “one thing Salinas look on. through which God comes through.” and loss support groups to Singles Council representa- respond to needs as they are suring up, we can come to the The bishop was speaking of weekend retreats, instructions tive Mike Wuller, who energeti- presented. Lord. the challenges of life, and ex- concerning marriage and an- cally coordinated the gathering, “We feel the Lord has called “Turn to him, and come to plained that the assembly was nulment, plus service projects, explained that there are three for a response from us … who him. He connects the dots. He made up of people who had mission trips, and even a sum- facets to the organization. are singles … to address the helps us to see what he does experienced life’s challenges mer campout. The fi rst is “spiritual,” Wuller needs of the singles of the — the big picture of things.” in a variety of ways. To them, For the annual October lit- explained, followed by “social” diocese,” the council’s leafl et Concluding, the bishop he gave a simple reminder: urgy and dinner, singles came and “service.” “If you get the explains. “Especially welcomed spoke his thanks to the singles, “When our own lives are not from throughout the Diocese of ‘me,’ through the spiritual,” are those from rural areas, de- who, Wuller said, offer much holding up with what God has Fort Worth, carrying non-per- he said, “you get to the ‘we,’ siring Catholic singles support more to the diocese and each promised us, still in every mo- ishable food items to donate to through social events, and and fellowship.” other than just an occasional ment God” asks us to come to a food bank and serving in all you get to the ‘thee,’ through “Our lives are like different social event. Expressing his him like little children, and he areas of ministry for the liturgy. service.” dots,” Bishop Vann told the gratitude to the singles commu- blesses us. After Mass, they gathered The Singles Council pro- assembly at the singles Mass. nity for their prayers and their The Fort Worth Diocesan in the parish hall for food, vides major activities once “But only God connects the concern for one another, Bishop Singles Council, which has dancing, and icebreakers that a quarter; monthly council dots. He invites people to be Vann said, “Thank you for all been functioning in the diocese brought the whole crowd off meetings; and always, accord- in a relationship with him and you do, and all that you are, for about 15 years, provides a their chairs and into the middle ing to their offi cial information, come to him, and even though and what you do for Christ’s variety of resources, from grief of the music-fi lled room. they seek God’s direction and our relationships are not mea- church.” NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 13 Diocesan / International Sister Mary Alberta Meyer, SSMN, former educator, nurse, dies at age 94 Sister Mary Alberta Meyer, she made per- keep teaching in the classroom,” 94, a member of the Sisters of petual vows in explained Elder, adding that Sr. St. Mary of Namur, died Oct. August 1942. Mary Alberta then began a new 23 at Our Lady of Victory Cen- Trained career as a nurse at the Our Lady ter in Fort Worth. The Mass of as a teacher, of Victory infi rmary. She went Christian Burial was celebrated Sister Mary on to serve as the much-loved at OLV Center Thursday, Oct. Alberta spent school nurse at Corpus Christi 25. Interment was at Mount 36 years teach- Academy Minor Seminary from Olivet Cemetery in North Fort Sister Mary ing students in 1986 to 1991. Worth. Alberta Meyer, Catholic grade After returning to OLV Cen- CANON LAW SOCIETY — Members of the Canon Law Society of America raise Born to Czechoslovakian SSMN schools in Fort ter in 1991 to serve as assistant red cards Oct. 11 to vote on resolutions at the business session of the society’s immigrants April 21, 1912, in Worth, Dallas, pharmacist, Sr. Mary Alberta 68th annual convention held Oct. 9-12 in Fort Worth. (CNS photo/Sister Nancy Wichita Falls, Mary Anna Meyer Sherman, Denison, and Beau- gradually retired to take up the Bauer, OSB) was raised on the family farm mont, and in California. ministry of intensive prayer for just outside of the city. She was “She was extremely adapt- seminarians and priests and for Consultation, collaboration can the ninth of 11 children. Her able, and she thrived in all of special intentions. mother took outside employ- the school environments,” said “She was a woman of deep resolve tension, says speaker ment in order to pay for the Sister Joan Markey, SSMN, ex- faith, prayer, and dedication,” girls of the family to attend the plaining that Sr. Mary Alberta said Sr. Joan. FROM PAGE 1 ized decision-making and effec- Academy of Mary Immaculate taught in many different schools “She was extremely person- and Pastoral Practices, called tive consultation of the faithful in Wichita Falls, administered because of her willingness to able, and so kind and gentle,” consultation “a necessity and in matters of governance would by the Sisters of St. Mary of respond wherever there was a added Elder. “Of course, her demand that fl ows from the very actually be more in harmony with Namur. need. “She was so genuine, so main commitment was always nature of the church.” canon law than those we have After the death of her mother, gentle, and such a dear person. to prayer.” He also emphasized the im- now,” Fr. Beal said. the young Mary Anna had to She was very much loved, wher- Sr. Mary Alberta is survived portance of listening by those “Wouldn’t it be ironic,” he leave school in order to help to ever she went.” by three sisters, Alma M. Zeissel, who engage in dialogue, and added, “if following the lead of support her family. She lived A niece, Wanda Elder of Bertha Miller, and Elsie Thames; said effective dialogue requires the corporate world reminded us with an older sister until she Decatur, noted that Sr. Mary Al- many nieces and nephews and a spirit of humility. of how to be a church?” was able to pursue her dream of berta obtained an LVN (Licensed their families; and the sisters of Msgr. Strynkowski, who In a convention seminar, entering religious life. Vocational Nurse) certifi cate in her religious community. Memo- addressed the group Oct. 12, Father Patrick Brennan, vicar In 1934, at age 21, she joined 1972 from St. Joseph School of rials in her honor may be made to proposed two means for strength- for clergy of the Archdiocese of the congregation of the Sisters of Nursing at age 60. “She began this the Sisters of St. Mary of Namur, ening consultation in the church. Portland, Oregon, identifi ed is- St. Mary of Namur. Taking the totally new kind of work because 909 West Shaw Street, Fort He suggested that bishops sues that affect collaboration and religious name Mary Alberta, she said that she was too old to Worth, TX 76110. schedule parish visits not just consultation between bishops for confi rmation, but to get to and priests. know the joys, sufferings, and He said forums and structures Pope says predecessor’s methods to needs of the faithful. “Bishops of consultation will be effective need to cultivate knowledge of only if bishops and priests have their people,” he said. “some degree of personal rela- spread Gospel must be studied He also proposed a national tionship” and the maturity and By Cindy Wooden known the late pope’s teaching Europe. dialogue to identify characteris- social skills necessary to engage VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The must also include efforts “to After communism fell in tics that people want in a bishop in constructive dialogue. message as well as the meth- touch the mystery of his holi- Eastern Europe and as Pope John to aid the selection process. They must also have a “proper ods used by Pope John Paul II ness.” Paul aged, the foundation began Father John Beal, associate understanding” of a priest’s to spread the Gospel must be The pope did not make any a major push to collect, archive, professor of canon law at The promise of obedience to his studied and duplicated, Pope other reference to the process and promote the study of the Catholic University of America in bishop. This obedience should Benedict XVI said. under way for the beatifi cation pope’s ministry. Washington, said the call for bet- be modeled on Christ who came “John Paul II, philosopher and and canonization of his prede- Thanking the foundation ter structures of participation and “to hear” the Father and do his theologian, great pastor of the cessor. supporters — including Polish consultation is not new, but has will. “There was no sense of church, left a richness of writ- The Oct. 23 audience marked Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz taken on a “particular urgency” domination or submission in this ings and gestures that express the 25th anniversary of the John of Krakow, Pope John Paul’s because of the clergy sexual abuse relationship,” Fr. Brennan said. his desire to spread the Gospel Paul II Foundation, established longtime personal secretary, and crisis and “because of the diffi cult “Consultation and collabo- of Christ throughout the world,” initially to strengthen the ties U.S. Cardinal Adam J. Maida of challenges and painful decisions ration can resolve tension,” he the pope said. between the Vatican and Poland, Detroit, a longtime foundation that the church faces as we grope said, “but they can also create Meeting approximately 800 spread the spiritual values in- board member — Pope Benedict our way in the uncharted, brave tension.” He said priests are directors and supporters of grained in Polish culture, deepen said Pope John Paul’s teaching new world of the 21st century.” sometimes afraid to express an the John Paul II Foundation, refl ection on the Christian roots not only must be preserved, Fr. Beal, who spoke Oct. 11, opinion to the bishop and among Pope Benedict said their efforts of Europe, and provide scholar- but must be shared with future suggested the church look to the brother priests. “Obviously, in to gather, analyze, and make ships for students from Eastern generations. corporate world for examples of such an atmosphere, there can effective consultation. be no constructive consultation “The church is not a business, and collaboration. But tension of course, but, insofar as it is a can be good. It urges us toward Young Serra Community of Dallas welcomes human organization, the church resolution,” he said. is a lot more like a business corpo- Fr. Brennan also spoke of a young adults from throughout North Texas ration than we usually recognize “malaise” among clergy that The Young Serra Community “The Young Serrans are indi- young adults to consider mem- — and perhaps more like one than works against consultation. (YSC) of Dallas, an organiza- viduals, single or married, mainly bership in the group, saying that we care to admit,” he said. When priests are overworked tion dedicated to supporting in their 20s or 30s, who meet those who are seeking deeper According to Fr. Beal, busi- and tired, they focus on their religious vocations and to de- regularly for Mass, eucharistic spiritual meaning and a group nesses that have survived recent parish assignments and “want veloping spiritual growth within adoration, dinners, and topi- of friends who care about the fi erce competition have evolved no diocesan involvement,” he its membership, is undertaking cal studies,” says Cheryl Vaca, Catholic faith will benefi t from from a highly centralized, top- said. a campaign to inform young a member of YSC. “The group involvement. down command and control He advised greater empha- Catholics in the North Texas participates in a unique combi- For more details, contact style to a more consultative ap- sis on human formation in the area about the group and the nation of spiritual, service, and Cheryl Vaca via e-mail to young proach. seminary and after ordination opportunities it provides for its social activities.” [email protected] or Church governance structures to enable bishops and priests to members. Vaca urges area Catholic call (972) 488-8578. that “make room for decentral- engage in dialogue. Page 14 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Diocesan

Background: Parishioners of St. Paul, Electra, and honored guests gather in prayer to celebrate 100 years of Catholic presence in their community. of Catholic presence in

100 yearsSTORY AND PHOTOS BY MARY E. MANLEY, CORRESPONDENT right sunshine helped fuel a joyous turnoutB of more than 175 people at St. Paul Church in Electra Sept. 22. They gathered to recognize 100 Electra years of Catholic pres- ence in the community. Bishop Kevin Vann cel- ebrated the early Sunday Mass, later joining those present for centennial events. Right: Bishop Kevin Vann, joined by Deacons Patrick Burke (left) and Don The providentially pleasant Warner, presides at the weather was especially wel- anniversary Mass. come, as only a week earlier the community had endured Above: recording-breaking rain and Deacon Patrick accompanying fl oods. Burke, pastoral During Mass, Bishop Vann administrator was assisted by Deacon Patrick of St. Paul Burke, parish pastoral adminis- Parish in Electra, trator, and Deacon Don Warner, speaks to the diocesan director of the Offi ce Below: Descendents of the early pioneers of Electra gather for a photo at the Mt. Carmel community of Permanent Deacons. Cemetery. They include (l. to r.) Rosemary (Weisenfels) and Alfred Kohl, of Snyder; at its 100th Cecilia (Roessler) and Gerald Weisenfels, of Arlington; Mary (Weisenfels) Smithson, of Bishop Vann’s homily com- anniversary Wichita Falls; Christine (Dietz) and Jim Franklin, of San Antonio; Gene Flusche, of Electra; mended the parish’s love of its celebration. and Eddie Dietz, of Lubbock. heritage and devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel and to Above: Gene and Sylvia Flusche stand before a display illustrating 100 St. Francis Xavier, patron saint years of Catholic presence in Electra. of missionaries — a love long demonstrated in the communi- “Being a part of this church and administrator since early 1984, ty’s pioneering spirit of service its Catholic tradition means a expressed his appreciation of and sacrifi ce. He referred to the lot to me,” Eckelkamp re- the community’s strong ties. He patronage of St. Paul, arduous fl ected, “especially having been spoke of his “mind and heart missionary to the Gentiles, as around some early pioneers.” being fi lled with memories of he encouraged the congrega- Another descendant of those who have gone before tion to persist in its trust in the founders of the Catholic us,” while professing his loy- God’s love and guidance. community in the area, Gene alty to parishioners still living. A parish hall breakfast re- Flusche, 70, stated that being In a separate interview, ception followed the centennial part of this legacy “has been Deacon Burke, a New Orleans Mass. an integral part of my life.” native, acknowledged that Highlighting the event were During one juncture, Flusche much prayer and cultural various displays of families proudly showed off the Mount adjustment have occurred for representing parish communi- Carmel Cemetery, also noting him and his family during his ties past and present, viewed the original rectory (now in pastoral “adventure” in North Texas, a Catholic presence was the two congregations merged by happily chatting visitors, private ownership) and the old Texas. Deacon Burke, who also established as the community into St. Paul Church, which coming from as far away as foundation of the fi rst church oversees Christ the King Parish of Mount Carmel by Emil Flus- celebrated its fi rst Mass in fall Louisiana and Colorado. nearby. Flusche, grandfather to in Iowa Park, said, “[Now] I che in 1906. It was the last of a 1966. One special visitor was a sixth-generation descendant, can’t picture myself anyplace number of such farming colo- A bell donated by the Flus- Sister Ursula McGann, SU, and Fluche family members else,” calling his fl ock, “family.” nies and churches established che and Eckelkamp families who noted, “I wouldn’t have join the Eckelkamp family in He reiterated the words of a by the German brothers Emil, in those early years is still in missed it for the world.” The keeping the cemetery well- New Orleans Dominican nun, August, and Anton Flusche. use today by St. Paul Parish. septuagenarian, now stationed maintained. who once advised him, “God’s In October 1906, Emil ac- In 1986, St. Paul was featured at San Antonio’s Oblate School St. Paul guests packed the providence will not take you quired acreage north of Electra on “Sunday Morning with of Theology, was inspired by nearby junior high school where his grace cannot keep to provide for a church, rec- Charles Kuralt.” Kuralt was fellow Ursuline nuns who once cafeteria to enjoy a deli-catered you.” tory, school, and cemetery. He exploring how churches coped taught in Electra and with luncheon and words from Electra is 32 miles west of selected one of the highest hills without priests. News reached whom she later taught in Dal- Bishop Vann, Deacon Burke, Wichita Falls in Wichita Coun- around for Our Lady of Mount his TV team of St. Paul with its las. She fi rst knew Bishop Vann Billy Don Clark, and Chris ty. Named after famed ranch- Carmel. longstanding endurance. What as a seminarian. Finch. The latter paid tribute to ing settler Tom Waggoner’s Later, St. Francis Xavier resulted was its faith communi- The eldest parish member many parishioners by present- daughter, Electra, it once was a Church was built in Electra to ty being among several nation- is octogenarian Johnny Eck- ing participation certifi cates. thriving oil boom town. Today better accommodate the bur- wide to illustrate how commu- elkamp, who still lives in his During his closing remarks, it’s home to some 3,000 people. geoning local population. As nities managed to resourcefully family’s original farmhouse. Deacon Burke, St. Paul pastoral According to The Handbook of the local population declined, deal with the priest shortage. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 15 National / International National Shrine’s new Our Lady of La Vang Chapel is gift from Vietnamese-Americans By Carol Griffi th The chapel was planned as a WASHINGTON (CNS) — sign of devotion and hope in Our Archbishop Donald W. Wuerl Lady of La Vang and to express of Washington celebrated Mass gratitude to the United States and dedicated a chapel to Our for taking in many Vietnamese Lady of La Vang, the Madonna refugees, he said. of Vietnam, at the Basilica of the On this day, “the Vietnamese National Shrine of the Immacu- church stands hand-in-hand with late Conception Oct. 21. the American church” in dedicat- The new chapel is a gift from ing the chapel,” he said. Vietnamese-Americans to the Bishop Luong concluded his Washington shrine, emphasizing homily with a prayer: “Our Lady the solidarity between Catholics of La Vang, protect us, give us in the United States and Vietnam. hope, and show us the way to Approximately 5,300 people Jesus, our eternal destiny and — from as far away as Cali- redemption.” fornia, Texas, Mississippi, and Immediately following the Massachusetts — attended the Mass, Archbishop Wuerl pro- ceremony. ceeded to the chapel, located to Archbishop Wuerl greeted the right of the Crypt Church, them with “Peace be with you” for the blessing ceremony. He in Vietnamese. anointed the altar with chrism The story of Our Lady of oil and sprinkled the chapel with La Vang goes back to the 18th holy water. century. Beginning about 1798, Designed by St. Jude Liturgi- OUR LADY OF LA VANG — People process with a statue of Mary during the dedication of Our Lady of La Vang Chapel the emperor of Vietnam, during at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington Oct. 21. The chapel was a gift from cal Designs, the chapel contains a period of political upheaval, Vietnamese-Americans. (CNS photo/Matthew Barrick, courtesy of the National Shrine) many symbols of Jesus and Mary restricted the practice of Catholi- and of Vietnamese history. The cism and persecuted believers. people and promised to receive Groups of women in yellow, Auxiliary Bishop Dominic altar is made of white marble Catholics fl ed to the nearby their prayers. She then gave the blue, turquoise, and rose dresses M. Luong of Orange, California, containing the names of the more jungle, known as the La Vang Catholics a sign of her loving care: and headpieces that are tradi- the fi rst Vietnamese-American than 8,000 donors to the chapel. region, in what is now the Quang the leaves of a fern to use to treat tional to Vietnam and a group bishop, gave the homily, sharing Behind the altar, a column of Tri province in central Vietnam. their physical illnesses. of men in dark blue traditional his refl ections on having recently red marble holds a pedestal upon Legend has it that the name “La Mary appeared many times outfits — amid celebrants in celebrated Mass at La Vang in which stands a 5-foot statue of Vang” derives from the words at the same place throughout a Western dress — carried blue and Vietnam. Our Lady of La Vang holding for “crying out,” referring to nearly 100-year period of reli- white fl ags as they processed in Although 117 Vietnamese the infant Jesus. Each color of the the sounds the displaced people gious persecution. The fi rst of groups according to their state martyrs were canonized by Pope statue is marble obtained from a made while attempting to chase several churches at the site in of residence. A large choir, ac- John Paul II in 1988, there were different part of the world. The away wild animals or their cries La Vang was built in 1802. The companied by drums, assembled more than 130,000 Vietnamese crown, headband, and a starburst for help. area became the National Mar- on the steps. Catholics martyred for their faith. mosaic behind the statue are While in hiding, every night ian Center of Vietnam in 1961. A cross-bearer was at the head Therefore, he said, all Vietnam- made of gold leaf. The walls and the people gathered at the foot That same year Pope John XXIII of the procession, followed by ese Catholics are children of the fl oor are marble, and the ceiling of a large tree to pray the rosary. elevated the Church of Our Lady participants carrying brightly martyrs. above the altar is a dark blue mo- One night they saw an apparition of La Vang to the rank of a minor colored fl ags and several men car- He recalled the words of Our saic with 24 stars, which represent of a beautiful woman in a native basilica. rying a small statue of Our Lady Lady of La Vang when she ap- the hours of the day. Vietnamese blue and white dress The Oct. 21 dedication cer- of La Vang on a carved stand. The peared to the people there: “Your On the walls, a plaque tells the and magnifi cent cloak, carrying emony in Washington began with procession began with a dance prayers have drawn me to this story of the Marian image and an infant son. a procession around the circular by a group of young women in place. From now on, the prayers two mosaics depict the Vietnam- Announcing herself as the drive of the shrine, against the traditional dress and the release of everyone who comes here to ese martyrs and people devoted mother of God, she consoled the backdrop of a cloudless fall day. of balloons. pray will be answered.” to Our Lady of La Vang.

POPE GREETS Pope urges university students to help STUDENTS — Pope Benedict XVI heal ‘crises of culture and identity’ attends a ceremony inaugurating the By Cindy Wooden her studies are taking place at a silence and contemplation be- VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Vatican-chartered university. cause it is necessary to be able new academic year Benedict XVI urged university When the students and staffs to hear with one’s heart the God at Pontifi cal Lateran students to help heal “the crises of are combined, the pontifical who speaks.” University in Rome culture and identity” by search- universities in Rome make up In his Oct. 21 speech at Lateran Oct. 21. The pope ing for truth and meaning in their a group of about 15,000 people University, where he dedicated said education studies and in their lives. from all over the world. the remodeled library and an should hone a Inaugurating the academic In his Oct. 23 speech in St. auditorium bearing his name, student’s thirst for year in Rome, where university Peter’s Basilica, the pope re- Pope Benedict said pontifi cal truth and meaning. classes begin in October, Pope minded the group of “the priority universities must challenge stu- (CNS photo/ Benedict visited Pontifi cal Lat- importance of one’s spiritual life dents to look for more than just L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO eran University Oct. 21 and met and the need, alongside cultural new experiences. via Reuters) students and professors from all growth, for a balanced human Students, he said, want help the city’s pontifi cal universities maturation and a deep ascetic responding to questions about after an Oct. 23 Mass. and religious formation.” the meaning of their own lives In speeches to both groups, the The pope said that studying and about human existence. to give one’s existence a solid must help students aspire to pope said education should hone theology and other subjects in “Overvaluing ‘doing,’ obscur- foundation and a valid goal,” know and love God and to follow a student’s thirst for truth and for preparation to serve the church ing ‘being’ will not help restore he said. him by obeying his command- meaning, especially when his or “presupposes an education in the fundamental balance needed Catholic universities, he said, ments. Page 16 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 National / International

Border fence among issues discussed NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL at Synod of Americas review meeting NEWSBRIEFS

FROM PAGE 1 Pope says Christians must heal States-Mexico border will not resolve the problem of the migra- divisions to be sign of hope tory fl ux between the two coun- VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Christians have a responsibility to heal tries and will not help establish their divisions so that they can be a real sign of hope for the world, Pope Benedict XVI said. “Those who profess that Jesus Christ is a coordinated and humanitarian Lord are tragically divided and cannot always give a consistent migration policy,” the bishops common witness,” the pope said during an Oct. 27 meeting with said. representatives of the world’s major Christian communities. In an Oct. 21 statement about The Conference of Secretaries of Christian World Communions the council meeting, the bishops held its annual meeting in Rome. Since 1957, the conference has expressed concern about at- brought together top offi cials of the international offi ces of 18 tempts to introduce or expand Christian churches and denominations for informal discussions. access to legalized abortion in The secretary of the Pontifi cal Council for Promoting Christian Unity has represented the Vatican at the meetings, which also many countries. They also stated include representatives of the Anglican Communion, mainline that public debate about abor- Protestant federations, the Salvation Army, Orthodox churches, tion “unfortunately has caused Seventh-Day Adventists, Mennonites, and others. a polarization among Catholics” in the countries. New York Catholic Conference may The poor and weakest mem- seek relief from drug mandate bers of society are the fi rst vic- America as one continent. ues to mark the lives of millions ROCHESTER, New York (CNS) — The New York State Catholic tims of the growing “culture of Some countries are facing of people, and many countries are Conference may petition the U.S. Supreme Court to reverse a death,” the bishops said. They are a political crisis where demo- suffering violence connected to decision by the state’s highest court that would require religious threatened not only by abortion, cratic structures are threatened drug and weapons traffi cking. employers to provide contraceptive and abortifacient coverage but also by euthanasia and by the by “demagogic” forms of gov- Looking at good news from as part of prescription-drug coverage in their employee health death penalty. ernment, “often of a neo-Marxist the Western Hemisphere, the plans. The ruling to uphold the state-mandated coverage was “The social and ecclesial situa- stripe,” which manipulate the bishops pointed particularly to issued Oct. 19 by the New York Court of Appeals. “We are very tion on the continent shows signs poor and their desire for eco- an increase in the number of disappointed with the Court of Appeals decision and fi rmly be- of hope, but also of concern,” nomic development, the bishops diocesan priests since 1978 and lieve that it is in error,” said a statement from Richard E. Barnes, executive director of the conference, which represents the state’s said. in the number of young men the bishops said. Throughout bishops on public-policy matters. “Any religious organization the 1997 synod, many bishops In Central and South America, entering the seminary in North must have the right in American society to uphold its own teach- referred to North and South they said, serious poverty contin- and South America. ings, even if those teachings are unpopular or countercultural,” Barnes added. “Plaintiffs will give every consideration to asking the U.S. Supreme Court to review it and reverse it.” New Jersey bishops pledge to protect U.S. military archdiocese head: Mod- ern war changes ethical challenges heterosexual marriage after ruling VATICAN CITY (CNS) — As the nature of war and confl ict changes, so do the ethical challenges faced by members of the TRENTON, New Jersey (CNS) “Even if marriage were a must decide how to accomplish military, said the head of the U.S. Archdiocese for the Military — New Jersey’s bishops have type of institution that could be this. The three dissenters said Services. Archbishop Edwin F. O’Brien, whose fl ock includes all pledged to work with state redefi ned, it would not be up to that same-sex couples must be U.S. Catholic military and their families, was one of the speakers at an Oct. 23-27 Vatican conference for military ordinaries, the lawmakers in drafting same-sex the court to decide whether to allowed to marry. bishops in charge of the spiritual care of their nations’ armed union legislation that protects the redefi ne it,” he said. “We do not have to take an forces. While a Catholic military chaplain’s ministry always concept of marriage “as the union At the same time, the archbish- all-or-nothing approach,” wrote will center on celebrating the sacraments — in a base chapel or of one man and one woman” and op said that “marriage is not the Justice Barry T. Albin in the ma- a fi eld tent — he also is called to be “an ethicist, helping form promotes “child well-being in creation of the state.” He called it jority opinion. The ruling added and guide” the approach of his unit and the concrete behavior our state.” a “natural institution — with its that the court “cannot fi nd a of individuals, Archbishop O’Brien said. Like other speakers at The pledge came after New own characteristics and features legitimate public need for an the Vatican conference, Archbishop O’Brien said modern shifts Jersey’s highest court ruled Oct. — that is prior to any particular unequal scheme of benefi ts and in when a nation feels called to deploy troops raise new ethical questions. Ethical guidelines for a “just war” — including the political or legal system.” privileges that disadvantages 25 that same-sex couples are due principles that actions are proportionate and civilians are not the same rights and benefi ts as Believers and nonbelievers same-sex couples.” targeted — were developed in the light of conventional wars married couples under the state “can understand and affi rm the At the same time, the court between two countries or clearly identifi ed groups. Now, he said, constitution’s equal protection nature of the marital good and “cannot find that a right to ethicists must deal with “asymmetrical war,” a confl ict such as clause. its centrality in a well-ordered same-sex marriage is so deeply terrorism where the two sides are not clearly identifi ed similar But the State Supreme Court in society,” he said. rooted in the traditions, history, entities and where the battlefi eld can be anywhere. its 4-3 decision said that the state “We pledge to work with and conscience of the people Legislature must decide whether members of the Legislature to of this state that it ranks as a Pope says military chaplains must to grant this equality through affect future legislation that fundamental right,” the ruling help troops focus on peacemaking marriage or another form of civil maintains the historic conjugal said. VATICAN CITY (CNS) — While the ideal that modern armies partnership. It gave the Legisla- concept of marriage as the union Massachusetts currently is exist only for defense, security, and freedom is not yet a reality, ture 180 days to modify current of one man and one woman, the the only U.S. state to permit Catholic military chaplains must help members of the armed forces laws or to draft a new one. principles of democratic self-gov- same-sex marriages. Vermont focus on peacemaking, Pope Benedict XVI said. “The church is The bishops’ Oct. 25 state- ernment and religious freedom, and Connecticut have estab- missionary by its nature, and its fi rst task is evangelization, which aims at proclaiming and witnessing to Christ and promoting his ment, signed by Newark Arch- and child well-being in our state,” lished civil unions for same-sex Gospel of peace and love in every environment and culture,” bishop John J. Myers, conference the archbishop said. couples. the pope said. Pope Benedict met Oct. 26 with participants in a president, said the Legislature is The court decision requires the Catholic leaders across the Vatican conference for military ordinaries, bishops responsible where the discussion of marriage Legislature to draft legislation country have been active in for the spiritual care of Catholics in their countries’ armed forces. “rightly belongs.” which offers same-sex couples efforts to limit marriage to the The conference drew more than 70 participants from 45 countries. “For the sake of constitutional equal benefi ts as married couples traditional union of one man The pope told the bishops they have two primary tasks: helping democracy as well as for the sake but leaves it up to the Legislature and one woman. Nineteen states Catholics in the military live their faith and promoting peace. of marriage itself, the proper to decide what to legally call these have adopted constitutional In the midst of the military, as in any sector of social life, the church is called to teach and witness in a way that encourages place for such discussion must unions. amendments banning same- “mentalities and structures” to focus on establishing peace so rest with the elected representa- While all seven justices agreed sex marriage, and another nine that all people may reach their potential and everyone’s basic tives of the people of this state,” that rights must be equal, the were considering such a ban rights would be guaranteed, he said. said Archbishop Myers. majority said that the Legislature this year. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 17 National Advocates demand better pay, conditions for U.S. farmworkers

By Kathrynne Skonicki caused by heat. But pesticide ROMEOVILLE, Illinois (CNS) dangers and working conditions — Consumers should pay more “From our are among other issues to be ad- attention to the origins of the food perspective, God calls dressed. they purchase, said the executive us to treat all people Nesmith said some campaigns director of the St. Louis-based Na- to correct abuses have been tional Farm Worker Ministry. with respect.” particularly successful because “I think for the average con- they have involved consumer — Virginia Nesmith sumer it’s really easy to forget. Out pressure. of sight, out of mind. It’s easy not For example, in 2001 farm- to pay attention” to how food gets They are also campaigning for workers from Immokalee, Flor- to the consumer, Virginia Nesmith better living conditions, includ- ida, who typically make about FARMWORKER RIGHTS — Charlaine McAnany, a parishioner at Ascension said in a telephone interview with ing screens on their windows and $7,500 during a season, organized Church in Oak Park, Illinois, joins farmworkers from the Coalition of Immokalee the Catholic Explorer, newspaper homes that do not have leaks. a national boycott of Taco Bell and Workers and their allies as they picket outside McDonald’s headquarters in Oak Brook, Illinois, Oct. 20. As part of the Campaign for Fair Food, the Florida- of the Joliet Diocese. People of faith need to stand its parent company, Yum Brands based protesters, who made several stops in the Midwest, are calling upon the Nesmith said it is essential up for these basic human rights, Inc., to call for better wages and fast-food giant to work with them to get better wages and working conditions for that consumers remember the Nesmith said. “From our per- working conditions for tomato the workers who pick tomatoes for McDonald’s suppliers. (CNS photo/Karen estimated 2.5 million farmwork- spective, God calls us to treat all pickers. Two years later they Callaway) ers in the nation who harvest by people with respect.” mounted a 10-day hunger strike hand about 85 percent of fruits Holy Cross Brother David at the company’s Irvine, Cali- and vegetables. Andrews, executive director of fornia, headquarters. In 2005 the Chicago association executive She said a farmworker’s the National Catholic Rural Life corporation agreed to demands annual wages range between Conference, likewise noted that of the Coalition of Immokalee Conway chosen to head CPA $10,000 and $12,000, barely above the “dignity of the human person Workers. WASHINGTON (CNS) — The Conway will remain in Chi- the federal government’s poverty is central to Catholic teaching; the Coalition members came to Catholic Press Association of cago. He is a certifi ed public level of $9,800 for an individual. farmworkers are then clearly in Illinois Oct. 20 to protest at the the United States and Canada accountant and holds a master’s Farmworkers who get paid per need of respect and support in their international headquarters of went outside the Catholic press degree in business administra- bushel get no reimbursement efforts for economic justice. Since McDonald’s in Oak Brook. They — and the publishing business tion from Loyola University in for sick days, a rainy day, or a everyone eats — Catholics eat were taking part in a nine-day altogether — to fi nd its new Chicago. bad crop. — they have a role to play in bring- tour that started in Florida as part executive director. A member of St. Petronille Farmworkers in California, ing about justice and peace.” of the coalition’s “Campaign for Lifetime Chicagoan Thomas Parish in the Chicago suburb of Florida, North Carolina, and Decades of advocating, picket- Fair Food” initiative. P. Conway, 46, vice president of Glen Ellyn, Illinois, in the Joliet Washington state are also fi ghting ing, and protesting have brought In September, the U.S. bish- business operations for Moose Diocese, he is a nephew of the for basic rights including a place about some positive changes ops issued a statement urging International the last two years, late Bishop Edwin Conway, who to get some shade in 105-degree such as better health care and McDonald’s to provide better has been appointed to take the was an auxiliary bishop for the temperatures, clean drinking educational opportunities. Just wages and working conditions reins of the CPA, which is based Archdiocese of Chicago. Married water available to them during this summer, California adopted for the Florida workers who pick in Ronkonkoma, New York. His 17 years, Conway and his wife, work breaks, and sanitary bath- permanent standards for out- the tomatoes used at the fast-food appointment, effective Oct. 30, Kerri, have two daughters and room facilities near the work site. door workers to prevent illness restaurants. was announced Oct. 25. one son. U.S. Hispanic priests meet, discuss pastoral challenges By Lou Baldwin Andres Mendoza of Lubbock. Hispanics are becoming the draw in Latinos with that type States, the archbishop said. PHILADELPHIA (CNS) — Any Hispanic priest living in largest single ethnic group in of spirituality. Mexico has about 10,000 priests More than 100 U.S. Hispanic the United States can join the the U.S. church, but without To counter that, he recom- for 100 million Catholics, com- priests met in Philadelphia Oct. association, but Fr. Mendoza more priests and vocations, “we mended that priests ministering pared to 40,000 priests for nearly 9-13 to discuss the pastoral chal- said most of the members are don’t have the pastoral ministry to Hispanics stress movements 70 million Catholics in the United lenges of serving the nation’s rap- sons of immigrants or are im- to support these people, and it’s such as charismatic renewal and States. idly growing Hispanic Catholic migrants themselves. He said a big challenge,” Fr. Mendoza the Cursillo movement, which Previous generations of im- population. he came to the United States said. seeks to promote individual and migrants from Europe were able The fi ve-day meeting was the from Chihuahua, Mexico,13 Part of the problem is that organized apostolic action. to obtain priests from their home 17th annual convention of the years ago. some in the pool of prospective The homilist at the Mass in the countries to serve their pastoral Asociacion Nacional de Sacer- “I feel very happy in the Unit- priesthood candidates are held cathedral was Archbishop José H. needs. Because of the shortage dotes Hispanos (National Asso- ed States,” he said. “Yes, I had to back by a lack of education, a lack Gomez of San Antonio, a former of priests throughout Latin ciation of Hispanic Priests). learn another culture, another of the English-language skills president of the association. His America, however, immigrants Philadelphia’s Cardinal Justin language, and another reality. I required by most seminaries, or mother was raised in Texas, but he from those countries have not Rigali, who celebrated an Oct. 9 feel very accepted. And I think even a lack of documents show- was born in Monterrey, Mexico, been able to get comparable Spanish-language Mass for the Hispanic priests are a blessing ing they are legally in the United and came to the United States 20 numbers of priests from home group at the Cathedral Basilica for the church.” States, he said. years ago. to serve them. of SS. Peter and Paul, told them The single greatest challenge “To me, the bishops have to Hispanics can enrich the U.S. Because many of the new im- their ministry “is of tremendous facing U.S. Hispanic Catholics is have an open mind, and help church through the integration migrants come from rural areas importance for the future, not a dearth of Hispanic leaders in them, in one way or another, to of their gifts of culture and faith, where the priest shortage is most only of the Hispanic community the church, Fr. Mendoza believes. fi x their papers,” he added. Archbishop Gomez said. They are acute — where Mass is celebrated in the United States, but the whole “The Hispanic Catholic priests The deep inroads being made open to the values of family, com- perhaps once a month — they are church.” who come here need to speak by Pentecostal churches into munity, and forgiveness because not schooled in the Catholic faith The cardinal urged them to both languages. They have to the Latino culture are also chal- they are Catholic, he said. when they arrive, Archbishop “be a bridge in what you do and be bilingual in order to become lenging the Catholic faith and A particular challenge right Gomez said. what you say.” leaders and have greater infl u- its traditions among Hispanics now, he said, is resolving the prob- “It is important for us that There are approximately ence,” he said. — not only here, but in all of Latin lems of immigration “through young Hispanic Catholics con- 4,200 Hispanic priests minister- He said their second task is to America. Fr. Mendoza noted laws that recognize immigrant tinue high school [and] go on to ing in the United States, serving develop religious vocations from that the culture of the Hispanic people as human beings with college for the good of society,” a Hispanic Catholic population among Hispanics in the United people can be hospitable to the rights and duties.” he said, adding that this would of roughly 25 million, according States, urging youths to discover emotionality of Pentecostal The shortage of Hispanic also open the doors for more to the group’s president, Father their calling from God. worship services, which may priests is not just in the United Hispanic priests. Page 18 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Scripture Readings

Today’s passage from the Letter to the He- brews emphasizes that the sacrifi ce of Christ at Calvary is unrepeatable and unique, in contrast with the annual bloody offer- ings of animals in the Jerusalem temple. “Once for all,” Jesus’ offering took away the “sins of many.” Yet, the term “sacrifi ce” is often applied to November 12, Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time. the Eucharist, much to the objec- Cycle B. Readings: tion and confusion of Chris- tians who criticize Catholics 1) 1 Kings 17:10-16 for offering Jesus repeat- Psalms 146:7-10 edly, as if Calvary were 2) Hebrews 9:24-28 somehow not enough. Gospel) Mark 12:38-44 The Catechism of the Catholic Church, in paragraphs 1365-1368, By Sharon K. Perkins is very clear on this issue. Catho- lic teaching affi rms the uniqueness ift-giving always has been a challenge for of the sacrifi ce at Calvary, but because me. Besides factoring in the time and money G Jesus’ self-offering is “made present” and is required, I usually struggle with fi nding just the visibly extended to believers through the Eucha- right gift, one that will be unique to the recipient. “But now he has appeared at rist and because the church as Christ’s body is When I have the time, the present I most like to offering itself in union with Christ, the Eucharist the end of the ages to take away sins give is a quilted mini-comforter that I make out can indeed be called a “sacrifi ce in an unbloody once for all by his sacrifi ce.” of fabrics in the person’s favorite colors or from a manner” — the Lord offering himself, both once print that expresses his or her hobbies or interests. — Hebrews 9:26b for all and continuously, throughout time, for It’s a unique gift of my own time and creativity, each individual. fl our and oil. Likewise Jesus, made eucharisti- and years later many of the recipients — from The poor but generous widow of Zarephath cally present in you and me, is the “gift that children to college students to adults — tell me sacrifi ced all she had so that the prophet Elijah keeps on giving” as we bring him to the world in that they still enjoy using their quilts. could eat — resulting in an endless supply of generous and ceaseless offering. Last year my mother gave me a personal blender that I use to make on-the-run breakfast smoothies almost every day — and when I do, I invariably think of her and thank her across QUESTIONS: the miles. Although I don’t unwrap that blender In recent days how have you offered yourself, sacrifi cially, for another? anew each morning, I cherish it as a “gift that keeps on giving.” Who has made loving self-offerings to you?

Copyright © 2006, Diocese of Fort Worth

Pope: Christians are called to be like St. Paul, ‘the 13th apostle’

By Cindy Wooden of God’s reconciling love,” he Catholic News Service said. VATICAN CITY — Like St. Even though St. Paul is not Paul, Christians are called to mentioned in the Gospels, “cer- place everything in their lives tainly after Jesus himself, he at the service of Jesus Christ, is the person about whom we Pope Benedict XVI said. are most informed” because of At his Oct. 25 weekly general the accounts of the Acts of the audience, Pope Benedict said Apostles and the New Testa- he would begin a series of talks ment letters “that come directly about important personali- from his own hand, and which ties of the primitive Christian — without an intermediary community, beginning with — reveal his personality and St. Paul, often called “the 13th thoughts.” apostle.” The letters are filled with Unlike the Twelve, who fol- accounts of shipwrecks, im- lowed Jesus during his public prisonment, hunger, cold and ministry, Paul was called by the anger of his own people, the risen Christ, Pope Benedict the pope said. But St. Paul said. continued to travel and preach “Paul was a devoted follower the Gospel until his martyrdom of the (Jewish) law whose initial in Rome. hostility to the Gospel suddenly “How can we fail to admire melted when he encountered such a man? How can we not the risen Lord on the road to thank the Lord for having given Damascus,” the pope said. Pope Benedict XVI greets the faithful as he arrives at Pontifi cal Lateran University in Rome Oct. 21 to inaugurate the new us an apostle of this stature?” In his New Testament letters, academic year. The pope said education should hone a student’s thirst for truth and meaning. (CNS photo/Alessia Giuliani, the pope asked. St. Paul’s “own accounts of Catholic Press Photo) From the moment of his his dramatic conversion speak conversion, “all of his energies not only about his vision of From the moment Christ the Gospel and encouraging the “From Paul we learn to make were placed at the exclusive Jesus but also his call to be an called him, his life was com- young Christian communities, Christ the center of our lives service of Jesus Christ and his apostle,” the pope said. pletely dedicated to spreading the pope said. and to see all things in the light Gospel,” Pope Benedict said. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 19 Scripture Readings

How do men and women prepare themselves for acting in such a heroic way, for putting the safety and survival of others above their own? The authors of Rescuers, Portraits of Moral Courage in the Holocaust, Gay Block and Malka Drucker, sought to answer some of those questions by profi ling 49 of the 105 rescuers Block photographed and November 19, Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time. Drucker interviewed. Cycle B. Readings: In her introduction, Drucker tries to answer why these people 1) Daniel 12:1-3 responded as they did: “It Psalms 16:5, 8-11 remains a mystery, perhaps 2) Hebrews 10:11-14, 18 a miracle. Many helped Gospel) Mark 13:24-32 strangers, some “O Lord, my allotted saved friends and portion and my cup, you it is lovers. Some had humane upbring- who hold fast my lot.” ings, others did — Psalm 16:5 not. Some were By Jeff Hensley educated, others were barely liter- few years ago, America magazine published ate. They weren’t anA article that raised the question of how many all religious, they weren’t all brave. What they Catholics, Protestants, and men and women did share, however, was compassion, empathy, of good will made the heroic choice to shelter an intolerance of injustice, and an ability to en- ourselves, What am I doing now?” Jews from the Nazi Holocaust. The question dure risk beyond what one wants to imagine.” Believers can gain the courage to answer with was phrased something like “A half million The vital questions for the rest of us to answer their lives from the last verse of the psalm for Schindlers?” referring to the well-known story of are asked by the author in her epilogue: “The this week: “You will show me the path to life, German industrialist Oskar Schindler’s acts and rescuers not only raise the question, Could I have fullness of joys in your presence, the delights at refl ecting the estimate some scholars make of the done what they did? They also force us to ask your right hand forever.” numbers of rescuers. The Scripture reading from Daniel for this week makes a promise for apocalyptic times: “At that time your people shall escape, everyone QUESTIONS: who is found written in the book [of life].” This How might God be asking you to use your gifts and talents, your reading goes on to speak of those who “lead the many to justice” being “like the stars forever.” presence, to offer compassionate service to others? Copyright © 2006, Diocese of Fort Worth

‘Communion of Saints’ more than a concept

By Jeff Hedglen time, knowing that my god- years old) and have blond hair, mother was praying for me in which is strange because no heaven has brought me more one on either side of the family Mass is over, and there is a Our communion with comfort than I could have is blond. I realize that my im- line of people over to the side imagined. ages of them may not turn out of the altar by the statue of the I was 26 years old when my to be true, and there is no way Holy Family. The people are the saints offers us a mother died, and though I still to know what they will really quietly chatting and patiently miss her greatly, my connection be like in heaven, but I know waiting their turn to sign the connection to the life that with her is not gone. There are one thing for sure, I cannot Book of Remembrance. times when I talk to her about wait to meet them! It has become a tradition my life, and often she appears Our communion with the at my parish to list the names lies ahead of us. in my dreams. I wasn’t married saints offers us a connection of loved ones who have died when she died, and the thought to the life that lies ahead of in this book. The book is then that she would never meet my us. We also gain access to a placed near the altar all dur- wife was very sad. I think they huge choir of intercessors on ing November, in honor of All extends to all the faithful who I never remember meeting would have really liked each our behalf until we join them. Saints Day Nov. 1. I really like have entered the eternal beati- my godmother. I am told that other. One day, before we got The Communion of the Saints this simple gesture, not just tude. This connection with the my mother’s sister, Margery married, my wife told me she is the lived reality of what because it gives me a way to saints gives us a deeper under- did meet and hold me many had been talking to my mom in we experience when we walk remember those people I love standing of what it means to be times when I was young, prayer. I was deeply moved by down the isle at Mass and say that have died, but because it is the Body of Christ. Through it but she contracted ALS (Lou this, especially when I realized “Amen” to the Eucharist, for it a visual reminder that this life we are mystically connected to Gehrig’s disease) and died they had met after all. unites us to the full implication is not the end. It also is a state- all believers past and present. when I was three years old. Lastly, my wife and I suf- of the statement we say amen ment of faith that those who It is hard to fully understand Even though I never knew my fered six miscarriages early in to: “The Body of Christ.” It is have gone before us have not the unity we have with the godmother, I have always felt our marriage. One of the things not an accident that we call this left us behind. people in heaven. We cannot close to her. As I grew older that helped us get through sacrament Communion. The Church is rich with see or hear them, and it is not and learned of the Communion that diffi cult time in our lives Jeff Hedglen, youth minister at St. tradition, one of the beliefs that typical to have direct communi- of the Saints, I understood why was knowing that we would Bartholomew Parish in Southwest is often overlooked is called the cation with them, yet through- I always felt connected to her. meet them someday in heaven. Fort Worth, is the principal or- Communion of the Saints. This out my life I have always felt a There were times I wished I When I think of them I have ganizer of Camp Fort Worth each communion that we share does connection. I would like to share had a godmother who I could defi nite pictures in my mind of summer. Readers with questions not just happen with those who three stories of communion that visit, write letters to, and get what they look like. They are can contact Jeff at jeff@stbartsfw. have been canonized, but it I have had with the saints. advice from, but at the same all the same age (around nine org. Page 20 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 América Le damos gracias a Dios por el incremento de vocaciones al sacerdocio Queridos amigos en la Lo que esta fi esta nos re- Fundó el primer monasterio en McDanniel también recibirán cuerda (día en que se recita o Francia y es el patrón de solda- su ordenación diaconal. ¡Todos, Diócesis de Fort Worth, canta el Gloria y Credo) es la dos, vinicultores y Francia. Dios mediante, recibirán su or- Por favor naturaleza de la comunión en En este día sería bueno orar denación presbiteral el próximo l pro- la fe con la Iglesia Universal. La en agradecimiento y apoyo por verano dándonos el grupo de A continúen identidad de comunión en cada los miembros de las fuerzas ordenandos más grande en seguir iglesia particular es el obispo armadas que han servido esta la historia de la diócesis! Le orando para y la diócesis. Cada iglesia par- nación tanto aquí como en damos las gracias al Señor pues por el ticular deberá entonces estar Europa. Pienso en mi propio ellos están dispuestos a decirle mes de que más jóvenes en comunión con la Iglesia padre y su generación que sí a su llamado y también universal y el Obispo de Roma. sirvieron durante la Segunda agradecemos a todos los que noviem- De esta manera la basílica es Guerra Mundial. Recuerdo la han apoyado y colaborado con respondan un fuerte recuerdo, no solo de visita al cementerio del Día D ellos, incluyendo a las comu- MONSEÑOR KEVIN W. VANN bre, el ca- generosamente la gloria del Salvador Resu- localizado en la Playa de Oma- nidades en los seminarios en lendario citado, sino que la Iglesia es ha en Francia acompañando a el Colegio Norteamericano en verdaderamente universal y un señor que estaba visitando Roma y en la Asunción en San de la Iglesia nos ofrece al llamado del no es ni congregacional ni aun la sepultura de su hermano que Antonio. Por favor continúen nacional. Esta verdad se puede no había visto desde que se fue orando para que más jóvenes más oportunidades Señor para que ilustrar simplemente con frases de su casa en 1939. respondan generosamente al para refl exionar y vivir como “La Iglesia Católica en los Debemos orar por la paz, llamado del Señor para que le le sirvan como Estados Unidos” o “La Iglesia al pensar en el mensaje del sirvan como sacerdotes, religio- nuestra fe. Católica en Francia” en vez de Papa Benedicto XVI, ofrecido sos y religiosas. sacerdotes, usar por ejemplo “La Iglesia este pasado 1° de enero, “Cada Finalmente, como les men- Por ejemplo, el 9 de noviem- Estadounidense o Americana” comunidad deberá entregarse cioné en mi última columna, bre es el aniversario de la o “La Iglesia Francesa”. a una labor intensa y capilar de noviembre es el mes de Todos dedicación de la Basílica de San religiosos y El 11 de noviembre también educación y de testimonio, que los Fieles Difuntos. Este es un Juan Letrán. El terreno, que le merece nuestra consideración. ayude a cada uno a tomar con- mes ideal para visitar a los ce- pertenecía a familia Laterani, le religiosas. Lo conocemos como el Día del ciencia de que urge descubrir menterios y orar por todos los fue dado al Papa San Silvestre, Veterano o Día del Armisticio. cada vez más a fondo la verdad que han muerto, esto es una de y aquí, en esta propiedad, en Es el día en que se fi rmó el de la paz. Al mismo tiempo, las obras de misericordia. el 9 de noviembre del año 324 aquí donde, por muchos años, tratado de paz al fi nalizar la pido que se intensifi que la De manera especial este mes, AD la Basílica del Santísimo los obispos de Roma residieron. Primera Guerra Mundial. Una oración, porque la paz es ante y al fi nalizar el calendario de Salvador y San Juan Bautista La inscripción en latin sobre costumbre antigua establecía todo don de Dios que se ha de este año eclesial, recordamos fue dedicada. la puerta principal proclama que los tratados de paz se suplicar continuamente...” que no importa cuan impor- La estructura ha tenido que esta basílica es “Madre Y fi rmaban el 11 de noviembre Nos sentimos orgullosos tante sea nuestro proyecto, varias adiciones y reconstruc- Cabeza de todas las Iglesias de por ser la fi esta de San Martín del hecho de que Isaac Orozco punto de vista, ministerio, o ciones al paso de los años, pero la Ciudad y del Mundo.” ¡Esto de Tours. San Martín de Tours fue ordenado al diaconado servicio todo a fi n de cuentas celebra con belleza y majestad la establece como la Catedral había sido soldado y abandonó en la Basílica de San Pedro en regresa al don más grande de la fe católica. ¡Fue aquí, en el del Obispo de Roma, y en ese su carrera militar para seguir a Roma el 5 de octubre y el 4 todos, nuestra eterna salvación. baptisterio, donde se cantó por sentido, tiene aun mayor rango Dios y más tarde fue nombrado de noviembre Thomas Ken- primera vez el Exultet! Fue que la Basílica de San Pedro! Obispo de Tours en Francia. nedy, Jonathan Wallis y Ray Que Dios los bendiga siempre. Sacerdotes hispanos estadounidenses se reúnen, discuten retos pastorales PHILADELPHIA (CNS) — dos puede unirse a la asociación, grande en la iglesia estado- la emotividad de los servicios de comparado con 40.000 sacerdotes Más de 100 sacerdotes hispanos pero el padre Mendoza dijo que unidense, pero sin más sacerdotes culto pentecostales, que pueden para casi 70 millones de católicos estadounidenses se reunieron en la mayoría de los miembros son ni vocaciones, el padre Mendoza atraer a los latinos con ese tipo en Estados Unidos. Philadelphia del 9 al 13 de octubre hijos de inmigrantes o son inmi- dijo: “No tenemos el ministerio de espiritualidad. Las generaciones anteriores para discutir los retos pastorales grantes ellos mismos. Él dijo que pastoral para apoyar a esta gente Para contrarrestar eso él re- de inmigrantes de Europa pu- de servir la población católica his- vino a Estados Unidos desde Chi- y es un gran reto”. comendó que los sacerdotes dieron obtener sacerdotes de sus pana que crece rápidamente. huahua, México, hace 13 años. Parte del problema es que que ministran a los hispanos países de origen para servir sus La reunión de cinco días fue “Me siento muy feliz en Esta- algunos en la fuente de prospec- enfaticen los movimientos tales necesidades pastorales. Debido a la 17ma convención anual de la dos Unidos”, él dijo. “Sí, tuve que tos candidatos al sacerdocio son como renovación carismática y el la escasez de sacerdotes en toda Asociación Nacional de Sacer- aprender otra cultura, otro len- retenidos por falta de educación o movimiento de Cursillo, que bus- América Latina, sin embargo, dotes Hispanos. guaje y otra realidad. Me siento falta de las habilidades lingüísti- can promover la acción apostólica los inmigrantes de esos países El cardenal Justin Rigali, de muy aceptado”. cas en el inglés requeridas por individual y organizada. no han podido obtener números Philadelphia, quien celebró una El desafío más grande que en- la mayoría de los seminarios, o El homilista en la Misa en la comparables de sacerdotes desde Misa en español el 9 de octubre frentan los católicos hispanos es- hasta falta de documentos demos- catedral fue el arzobispo José H. sus países para servirles. para el grupo en la Catedral Ba- tadounidenses es una escasez de trando que están legalmente en Gómez, de San Antonio, ex presi- Debido a que muchos de los sílica SS. Peter and Paul, les dijo líderes hispanos en la iglesia, cree Estados Unidos, él dijo. dente de la asociación. Su madre nuevos inmigrantes provienen de que su ministerio “es de tremen- el padre Mendoza. “Los sacer- “Para mí que los obispos tienen fue criada en Texas pero él nació zonas rurales donde la escasez de da importancia para el futuro, no dotes católicos hispanos que vie- que tener una mente abierta y en Monterrey, México, y vino a sacerdotes es más aguda — donde sólo de la comunidad hispana de nen aquí necesitan hablar ambos ayudarlos en una forma u otra Estados Unidos hace 20 años. la Misa es celebrada quizás una Estados Unidos, sino también de idiomas. Tienen que ser bilingües a arreglar sus documentos”, Un desafío particular ahora, él vez al mes — ellos no están educa- la iglesia completa”. para poder hacerse líderes y tener añadió él. dijo, es resolver los problemas de dos en la fe católica cuando llegan, Hay aproximadamente 4.200 mayor infl uencia”, él dijo. También retando la fe católica y inmigración “mediante leyes que dijo el arzobispo Gómez. sacerdotes hispanos ministrando Él dijo que la segunda tarea sus tradiciones entre los hispanos reconozcan la gente inmigrante “Es importante para nosotros en Estados Unidos, sirviendo a de ellos es desarrollar vocacio- — no sólo aquí, sino también en como seres humanos con dere- que los católicos hispanos jóvenes una población católica hispana nes religiosas entre los hispanos toda América Latina — están las chos y deberes”. continúen la escuela secundaria de aproximadamente 25 millones, de Estados Unidos, pidiéndole incursiones profundas hechas por La escasez de sacerdotes his- (y) continúen hacia la universi- de acuerdo con el presidente del a los jóvenes que descubran su las iglesias pentecostales en la panos no es sólo en Estados dad para el bien de la sociedad”, grupo, padre Andrés Mendoza, llamado de Dios. cultura latina. El Padre Mendoza Unidos, dijo el arzobispo. México dijo él añadiendo que esto tam- de Lubbock. Cualquier sacerdote Los hispanos están convirtié- señaló que la cultura del pueblo tiene unos 10.000 sacerdotes bién abriría las puertas a más hispano que viva en Estados Uni- ndose en el grupo étnico más hispano puede ser hospitalaria a para 100 millones de católicos, sacerdotes hispanos. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 21 América Primer retiro de vocaciones en españolabre más amplias las puertas por Joan Kurkowski-Gillen a los que consideran fotos por Donna Ryckaert una vocación odeada de per- sonas con her- Rencia hispana durante toda su vida, Martha siempre sabía la dirección que se esperaba Arriba: el Padre Kyle Walterscheid (Izq.) subdirector de Vocaciones responde que su vida tomara. las preguntas de Francisco García acerca de la vocación sacerdotal.

“Uno se casa, tiene hijos; ése es el patrón”, explica la mujer de 32 años. “Incluso los retiros espirituales que acudí como adolescente estaban centrados en situaciones familiares y la crianza de los hijos”. Arriba: (I. a D.) la Hna. Inés Díaz, SSMN; la Hna. Flor Tampoco los movimientos Barreto, HFIC; y la Hna. Yolanda Cruz, SSMN, aplauden de Búsqueda y Jornada Juvenil con entusiasmo al participar en el primer retiro diocesano en que asistió los fi nes de semana español para promover vocaciones. hablaban sobre la posibilidad de una vocación religiosa. “Es necesario tener motivación propia para enterarse más sobre ese tema”, agrega Martha. “Uno mismo tiene que buscar las res- puestas”. Afortunadamente, eso ha cam- biado. Los católicos de habla his- pana de la Diócesis de Fort Worth, que tratan de discernir si una Arriba: El Padre Anh Tran (centro), director diocesano de Vocaciones, platica con los participantes Leo Palacios (Izq.) y Héctor Castor que tratan vocación religiosa es el camino que de discernir su vocación. deben tomar, ahora cuentan con un nuevo recurso. En días recien- Izquierda: la Hna Merys Jiménez, HCG, (centro), ríe con Luz Romero (Izq.) tes, el Serra Club y la Dióceesis de y Maribel López que quieren discernir su posible llamado a la vida religiosa. Fort Worth patrocinaron un retiro de concientización sobre vocacio- nes completamente en español. mitió abrir los ojos. discernimiento”, explicó el Padre Este suceso, que se realiza por visitas individuales con repre- propició un ambiente más ameno “Les enseñó que hay otra Walterscheid. primera vez y se llevó a cabo en sentantes de las distintas órdenes y seguro para las personas que puerta abierta para ellos en la Ofrecer el programa de con- el Centro de Renovación Católica, religiosas. La oración y la espiri- consideran formalmente tomar vida. Tal vez no habían cobrado cientización de vocaciones en reunió a 18 adultos que han expre- tualidad fueron los temas de un una decisión. conciencia de esto antes”, señaló español brindó beneficios que sado interés sobre la vida religiosa. discurso principal que dio la Her- “Todos tenían el mismo in- el Padre Walterscheid. trascienden más que sólo mejorar Los organizadores diseñaron el mana Gabriela Martínez, SSMN, terés”, agregó. “Fue una opor- Los encargados del retiro se las vías de comunicación. retiro con los intereses en mente el sábado por la noche. tunidad para reunir durante han seguido reuniendo con los “Les demostró a los asistentes de hombres y mujeres entre los “Ella enfatizó la importancia comidas, oración y conversacio- candidatos interesados para de que la iglesia está realmente in- 18 y 35 años. de la oración y de tener un direc- nes a personas que piensan de permitirles discernir más in- teresada y se preocupa por ellos”, “Esa es una buena edad para tor espiritual en la vida de los forma semejante”. tensamente durante una serie de sugirió el Padre Walterscheid. discernir y buscar”, señala la asistentes para ayudarles a deci- El Padre Kyle Walterscheid, reuniones informales celebradas “Usar el idioma natal siempre Hermana Yolanda Cruz, SSMN, dir la trayectoria de sus caminos”, director auxiliar de vocaciones, semanalmente en la Catedral de es la mejor manera de llegar a directora auxiliar del ministerio señaló la Hna. Yolanda. quien reemplazará al Padre Anh San Patricio. Kevin Vann, obispo una persona, ya sea vietnamita de catequesis de la diócesis. Más temprano en el día, se les como director diocesano de voca- de Fort Worth, asistió a la reunión o hispana”. “Hay mucho potencial para las invitó a los participantes del retiro ciones en enero, dijo que invitar a del grupo celebrada el 19 de oc- Martha, quien habla inglés vocaciones en la comunidad de a conocer personalmente a los hombres y mujeres interesados en tubre para hablar sobre el miedo y español, dice que el retiro re- hispanohablantes y necesitamos religiosos visitantes. Los diálogos la vida religiosa es como sembrar y la aprensión que se suscitan al emplazó la confusión que tenía llegar a ellos”. de 30 minutos recibieron altas un jardín. responder al llamado a una vida con información. Después de Con ese objetivo en mente, el califi caciones en las evaluaciones “No es posible cosechar frutos religiosa. Durante el proceso de reunirse con diversos represent- Comité de Vocaciones Hispanas posteriores a la actividad. sin sembrar semillas”, explicó. discernimiento, se les recomienda antes de distintas congregaciones de la Diócesis ha tratado de crear “Los asistentes se sintieron “Éstas son personas que están a las personas hablar con un di- religiosas, la joven profesional distintas actividades y eventos. particularmente conmovidos con comenzando a discernir sobre rector espiritual una vez al mes y está planeando ahora visitar El retiro del fi n de semana fue la las conferencias individuales”, una vocación. Están tratando de aumentar su participación en las algunos conventos para estar culminación de esas labores. dijo. “Fue una oportunidad para entender dónde encajan en la actividades de la parroquia. mejor informada. El programa variado consistió entrevistarse con hermanas y iglesia y queremos darles las her- “Estoy tratando de que los “Espero determinar si es ahí en debates en grupo y en panel, sacerdotes, hacer preguntas y es- ramientas para hacerlo”. sacerdotes y las hermanas com- donde está mi nicho”, señala. Misa, hora sagrada, cánticos, cuchar las distintas respuestas”. Para muchos, el fi n de semana partan individualmente con los “Este fi n de semana fue una buena tiempo de refl exión personal y La reunión íntima y pequeña fue una experiencia que les per- jóvenes que están en proceso de forma de dirigir esa decisión”. Page 22 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 América Misa en San Antonio honra nuevo santo Casamiento, crías, cuentas, compra, que tiene conexión con arquidiócesis comida, colegio y Cristo SAN ANTONIO (CNS) —San más tarde en Austin en la iglesia Rafael Guízar Valencia, santo Our Lady of Guadalupe. con conexión personal con San ‘Bendito sea Dios Él es el primer obispo nacido Antonio, fue honrado en el día que nos dio este en las Américas en ser declarado La espiritualidad de su canonización en Roma con santo. una Misa especial en la Catedral gran hombre”, dijo En su homilía el arzobispo San Fernando, donde él predicó el arzobispo Flores Flores dijo que el obispo pasó familiar mientras estaba en exilio desde algunos días en San Antonio y Por Pedro A. Moreno, OPL su México natal a fines de la en su homilía. “Y vivió brevemente en el convento Director, Instituto Luz de Cristo década de 1920. de las Hermanas de la Divina Los celebrantes principales en bendito sea este Providencia en Castroville antes la Misa del 15 de octubre fueron de mudarse a Austin, donde él Es impresionante la cantidad de personas que todavía el arzobispo José H. Gómez, de gran hombre por estuvo en la Iglesia Our Lady creen, equivocadamente, que eso de vida espiritual o San Antonio, y su predecesor, todo lo que él nos of Guadalupe durante más de espiritualidad es solo para sacerdotes, religiosos, religio- el arzobispo jubilado Patrick F. dos años. sas o diáconos. Toda persona, no importa su situación Flores. También concelebrando ha enseñado”. Cuando azotó la Gran Depre- o condición social está llamada por Dios para tener una estuvieron el obispo Edmond sión él le vendió su anillo epis- amistad cercana y personal con El. Esta relación personal e Carmody, de Corpus Christi; el compartir con otros”. copal al obispo de Oklahoma, intima con Dios se llama santidad. padre David García, rector de San Rafael nació en 1878 a una otra vez para ayudar a aquellos San Fernando; y el padre jesuita familia rica. Como sacerdote y en necesidad. En un raro giro Para la mayoría de los creyentes y seguidores de Cristo James Empereur, vicario parro- luego como obispo de Veracruz, del destino, este anillo llegó más nuestra casa o apartamento es también nuestro lugar quial de la catedral. Una gran México, él utilizó su riqueza para tarde al arzobispo Flores como especial donde estamos con la familia y con Dios. El clero asamblea de sacerdotes y diáco- ayudar a construir orfanatos, expresión de gratitud de parte y los religiosos tienen conventos, monasterios o casas pa- nos también participó. clínicas y un seminario y era de la familia de un hombre a rroquiales pero los demás tenemos nuestras casas que se “Bendito sea Dios que nos dio conocido por dar todo lo que él quien el arzobispo le sirvió como convierten en pequeñas iglesias domiciliares. este gran hombre”, dijo el arzo- tenía para ayudar a aquellos en ministro en Houston. bispo Flores en su homilía. “Y necesidad, hasta vendiendo para Después de la muerte del hom- En la Iglesia muchos tienen una vocación especial para bendito sea este gran hombre por ayudar a los pobres su hermosa bre, sus hijos y su hija, monja domi- santifi carse dentro de los diversos lugares especiales de todo lo que él nos ha enseñado”. cruz pectoral de oro ornamen- nica, visitaron al arzobispo Flores formación religiosa o conventos y su trabajo tiende a ocu- Él señaló que hay una lec- tada con diamantes. en la cancillería. Ellos le regalaron rrir dentro del ámbito de la Iglesia. Los demás bautizados, ción que aprender del nuevo Él ministró durante un perío- un anillo que su padre quería que seglares o laicos, tenemos una vocación para santifi carnos santo sobre la lectura del día del do de intensa persecución reli- el arzobispo tuviera y sólo sabían en el mundo y sus diversas realidades del mundo en que Evangelio de San Marcos sobre giosa contra la Iglesia Católica que éste había pertenecido a un vivimos. El Papa Juan Pablo II en su Exhortacion Apos- el hombre rico que fue invitado en México. obispo mexicano. tolica Christifi deles Laici, nos habla sobre esto… a vender todo lo que poseía y Obligado a huir de su país por El arzobispo Flores fue sorpren- siguiera a Jesús. Esto aplica no un tiempo, él pasó varios años en dido más tarde cuando fue descu- La vocación de los fi eles laicos a la santidad implica que la sólo al que es rico materialmente, el sur de Texas predicando como bierto que éste había pertenecido vida según el Espíritu se exprese particularmente en su in- dijo el arzobispo, “sino también misión en San Antonio en la igle- al obispo Guízar, por quien él serción en las realidades temporales y en su participación en a todos los que, de una manera sia Immaculate Heart of Mary, había tenido una devoción espe- las actividades terrenas. De nuevo el apóstol nos amonesta u otra, tengan algo que puedan así como en la catedral. Él vivió cial desde sus años de seminario. diciendo: «Todo cuanto hagáis, de palabra o de obra, hacedlo todo en el nombre del Señor Jesús, dando gracias por su medio a Dios Padre» (Col 3, 17). Refi riendo estas palabras Obispos de Américas discuten amenazas contra del apóstol a los fi eles laicos, el Concilio afi rma categóri- camente: «Ni la atención de la familia, ni los otros deberes seculares deben ser algo ajeno a la orientación espiritual vida, muro en frontera estadounidense de la vida»… «La unidad de vida de los fi eles laicos tiene CIUDAD DEL VATICANO quien fi rmó la disposición el 26 señales de esperanza, pero tam- una gran importancia. Ellos, en efecto, deben santifi carse (CNS) — La descomposición de octubre. bién de preocupación”, dijeron en la vida profesional y social ordinaria. Por tanto, para de las familias y las amenazas “El muro a lo largo de la fron- los obispos. En todo el sínodo que puedan responder a su vocación, los fi eles laicos deben contra la vida humana desde tera Estados Unidos-México no de 1997 muchos obispos se refi - considerar las actividades de la vida cotidiana como ocasión el aborto hasta la pena capital resolverá el problema del fl ujo rieron a América del Norte y del de unión con Dios y de cumplimiento de su voluntad, así son retos que los católicos de migratorio entre los dos países Sur como un solo continente. como también de servicio a los demás hombres, llevándoles las Américas deben confrontar, y no ayudará a establecer una Algunos países están en- a la comunión con Dios en Cristo». dijo un grupo de obispos que se política de emigración coordi- frentando una crisis política reunieron en el Vaticano. nada y humanitaria”, dijeron donde las estructuras democráti- Cristo nos llama a un amor intenso con El. Esto comienza El consejo de obispos encar- los obispos. cas son amenazadas por las for- desde nuestro bautismo y sigue creciendo por medio de los gado de supervisar y promover La declaración del 21 de octu- mas “demagógicas” de gobierno, demás sacramentos, sobre todo la Eucaristía, pero tam- el seguimiento al Sínodo de bre sobre la reunión del consejo “en muchos casos de raya neo- bién va creciendo mientras cumplimos cristianamente con Obispos Para América de 1997 y expresó preocupación por los marxista”, que manipulan a los nuestros deberes diarios. En efecto, casamiento, crías, cuen- al documento postsinodal de 1999 intentos de presentar o ampliar pobres y su deseo de desarrollo tas, compra, comida, colegio y todas las demás res-ponsabi- del papa Juan Pablo II, “La Iglesia en muchos países el acceso al económico, dijeron los obispos. lidades diarias, si las cumplimos con amor y lo hacemos en América”, se reunió en el Vati- aborto legalizado. En América Central y del Sur, con nuestros corazones llenos de Dios, nos ayudaran a estar cano a principios de octubre. Y, ésta dice, el debate público dijeron, la seria pobreza continúa más cerca de Cristo y extender su Reino. Además de denunciar las sobre el aborto “desafortun- marcando las vidas de millones amenazas contra la vida humana, adamente ha causado polari- de personas y muchos países Por eso les recuerdo, no tenemos que huir del mundo para miembros de consejo procedentes zación entre los católicos” en los están sufriendo la violencia co- ser buenos discípulos del Señor. Cristo nos invita a estar en de América del Norte y del Sur, países. nectada con el tráfi co de drogas el mundo sin ser del mundo. No está mal tener nuestra Biblia así como del Vaticano, también Los miembros más pobres y y armas. en una mano y el control remoto del televisor en la otra. ofrecieron una evaluación se- más débiles de la sociedad son Mirando las buenas noticias vera de los planes de construir las primeras víctimas de la cre- del Hemisferio Occidental, los Pedro Moreno es director diocesano del Instituto un muro a lo largo de la frontera ciente “cultura de la muerte”, obispos señalaron particular- Luz de Cristo. Sus escritos espirituales han recibido estadounidense-mexicana. dijeron los obispos. Ellos son mente un aumento en el número múltiples premios de la Asociación de Periodismo El 23 de octubre el proyecto amenazados no sólo por el abor- de sacerdotes diocesanos desde Católico de los Estados Unidos y Canadá. Vive en el de ley autorizando la construc- to, sino también por la eutanasia 1978 y en el número de los hom- noroeste de Fort Worth con su esposa Maria Mirta ción de 700 millas de muralla y por la pena capital. bres jóvenes que están entrando y sus tres hijas Maria, Patricia y Mirangela. Pedro es Laico fue enviado por el congreso “La situación social y ecle- al seminario en América del Dominico. al presidente George W. Bush, siástica en el continente muestra Norte y del Sur. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 23 International

KEEPING Violence makes living ‘a nightmare’ THE PEACE — A U.S. in Iraq, says Caritas offi cial soldier from the 172nd By Carol Glatz Some studies have shown a from 426,000 to 794,000. Stryker VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The 35 percent increase in poverty However, U.S. President Brigade war in Iraq has made day-to-day since 2003, and a Pentagon study George W. Bush and some other Combat living “a nightmare,” with vio- released in August “estimates government and military offi cials Team lence, poverty, and malnutrition that about 25.9 percent of Iraqi dispute the accuracy or credibil- shakes on the rise since the start of the children examined were stunted ity of the report. Another inde- hands with U.S.-led invasion, said an offi cial in their physical growth due to pendent British group, Iraq Body a boy at a of the Catholic Church’s charity chronic malnutrition, which is on Count, for example, puts the toll checkpoint network. the rise,” he wrote. based on media reports at 43,000 in Baghdad, The head of Caritas Internatio- Staff at Caritas centers meet to 48,000 civilian deaths. Iraq, Oct. 27. (CNS nalis’ Middle East desk, Sebastien “the human face of poverty” Dechamps wrote that he and photo/Thaier Dechamps, said “the needs are every day as they reach out to his colleagues “don’t see why al-Sudani, immense” for the people living those most in need: the sick, the [The Lancet] study would not Reuters) in Iraq and for the thousands poor, infants, and children suffer- refl ect reality.” who have fl ed to neighboring ing from severe malnutrition, the Referring to the margin of er- countries. Caritas offi cer wrote. ror in The Lancet study, he said the Run by local staff for the past The chaos and violence on the difference between 400,000 and 15 years, Caritas Iraq has reported ground have made monitoring 600,000 innocent people dead “is that the humanitarian situation humanitarian conditions and of no moral/human interest” as has visibly worsened since 2003, determining an accurate death both fi gures “are appalling.” country by the thousands,” he throughout the country, which it Dechamps said in Oct. 19 written toll very dangerous and diffi cult Caritas workers in Iraq, he said. These are families who have then projected on a national level. responses to questions by Catho- for organizations like Caritas. wrote, “would confi rm that they sold everything and “are just The interviews were done from lic News Service. On Oct. 12 the British medical probably don’t know a single looking for a ‘normal life’ where May to July. The researchers said “Daily life has become a night- journal The Lancet published a family who would not have lost kids can go to school,” he said. that their methodology was the mare. You hardly have one hour survey that estimates 601,000 at least one member to violence The study published in The same used by others to determine of electricity per day; access to civilians have been killed in the last three years.” Lancet was done by the Johns civilian deaths as a result of wars food, water, health [care, and] because of violence since the The general feeling among Hopkins University Bloomberg in Democratic Republic of Congo, education has deteriorated. But U.S.-led invasion in 2003. The Iraqis is that “this is a civil war; School of Public Health and Al Kosovo, and Sudan. most of all, the lack of peace, the survey said that, taking into people are afraid; most of them Mustansiriya University School The 601,000 deaths through violence, and the anarchy are consideration a margin of error have no more hope in the future,” of Medicine in Baghdad, Iraq. violence represent 2.3 percent everywhere, and give a sense of in the statistics, civilian deaths said Dechamps. The study gathered data from of the Iraqi population of 26 hopelessness,” he wrote. caused by violence could range “Iraqis are fl eeing from their 47 clusters of 40 households each million. Offre Joie brings Christians, Muslims together to rebuild Lebanon By Michael Hirst on a hilltop just a few miles from organization leaves the group to affected worst by the bombing. HOULA, Lebanon (CNS) the Israeli border, is one of three its own devices. As soon as the cease-fi re was — Lebanon’s new school term in southern Lebanon where some “We are a sign to the “Hezbollah know exactly declared Aug. 14, the second fi nally got under way in mid- 150 Offre Joie volunteers have world that Lebanon what we’re doing, but they leave phase of the charity’s action plan October, but in southern areas worked since mid-August. will not die, because we us alone because we are work- was put into motion — recon- of the country ravaged by the On Oct. 14, local villagers ing for regeneration in southern struction. As well as repairing Hezbollah militia’s 34-day con- joined Offre Joie volunteers in have the power to live Lebanon,” Torbey said. the three schools, it repaired the fl ict with Israel, many destroyed the project’s fi nal stages, sweep- together, rich in our Offre Joie is funded largely church and several homes in Al- classrooms remained empty. ing dusty corridors, painting differences.” by overseas donations and runs Kawzah, a village overlooking UNICEF reports that 16 pub- repaired walls, and cleaning new on a budget of less than $100,000 Aita Shaab on the border, where lic schools were completely windows in preparation for the — Melhem Khalaf a year. Although it has strong Hezbollah’s capture of two Israeli destroyed by Israeli strikes dur- fi rst day of school. Since Oct. 16, Catholic links — approximately soldiers July 12 sparked the con- ing the war; 250 schools were morning and evening classes North and South, between Chris- half its volunteers attend St. fl ict that killed more than 1,000 severely damaged, and a further have served about 200 students tian, Sunni, Shiite, and Druze,” Joseph University — Offre Joie people, mostly Lebanese. 800 were left in need of repair. from the surrounding area. said Torbey. “Our aim is to re- prides itself on its apolitical, “We are building a spirit, a But political wrangling over the Based on the three principles unite the Lebanese family. Ours nonconfessional approach. feeling of citizenship, a message spending of some $900 million in of love, forgiveness, and respect, is an NGO (nongovernmental “We welcome the diversity,” of hope,” said Khalaf. “We are a international aid donations has Offre Joie is made up largely of organization) that accepts vol- said its founder, Melhem Khalaf, sign to the world that Lebanon delayed the allocation of funds, university students ages 20-30, unteers whatever their religion a 43-year-old French lawyer. will not die, because we have the meaning reconstruction work has and it takes a hands-on approach and helps the needy whatever “Through our core tenet of respect power to live together, rich in our been slow, leaving many dam- to its aid work. their religion.” for each other, we don’t eat meat differences.” aged schools unusable. “We don’t pay for other people Paintings by the volunteers on a Friday in line with Christian On Oct. 14, Carlos Fauzy, a One exception is the primary to do the work,” said Mark Tor- on the school’s walls depict beliefs. Nor do we eat pork out 22-year-old student from Sidon, school in the southern border bey, 19, a student volunteer from communities living together, of respect for Muslims. wiped dust from his straggly village of Houla where, since the Jesuit-run St. Joseph University mosques alongside churches. “By working together, we beard and gazed up at the Houla war ended, more than 50 Chris- in Beirut. “We teach our volun- The three schools rebuilt this work as a team, giving the vol- primary school’s freshly painted tian and Muslim volunteers have teers how to mix cement, build summer were chosen not because unteers a stronger sense of citi- white walls gleaming in the mid- been working to repair shelled walls, and fi t electrical circuits, so of the religious affi liation of the zenship and ownership over the day sun. walls, replace ruined roof tiles, that they can repair the schools villages in which they lie, but future of Lebanon,” he said. “I came here to help the chil- and install new windows in themselves. This way we can feel because of their location in the Offre Joie, founded in 1985 to dren, to give hope to the future place of those shattered during that we are rebuilding our own wider area — each teaches the help the needy during Lebanon’s of Lebanon,” he said. the confl ict. country.” largest number of students from 15-year civil war, was well posi- “And look at this place,” These young volunteers came Dressed in a white T-shirt, surrounding villages. tioned to devise an aid plan and added Kemal Lawzi, also 22, not at the behest of the Lebanese dusty work boots, and a blue In a country for so long split by put it into action this summer. pointing an arm past the school government or the local authori- smock emblazoned with Offre sectarian divisions, the attitude of From the fi rst day of the confl ict, to the rolling hills of southern ties, but were instead representa- Joie’s symbol — a white dove unity in diversity means Offre Joie the group set up food centers, Lebanon. “When there are eve- tives of a small, nondenomina- — Torbey smiled as he refl ected avoids confrontation with various delivered some 2,000 meals to dis- ning classes, the people will be tional charity called Offre Joie on his work. religious groups. Houla, for ex- placed families, and established able to see the lights of the school (Offer Joy). “For so many people in Leba- ample, is in an area controlled by a hot line and a crisis operation for miles. It will be a beacon for The school in Houla, perched non, there are divides between Hezbollah, but the militant Shiite room to assess the needs of those the country.” Page 24 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 International Vatican newspaper L’Osservatore Romano marks 145 years as ‘genuine face of the church’

By Carol Glatz cent certain that the exact words VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Jug- of the pope and church offi cials gling a phone, tapping out head- appear on its pages, but inter- line changes on his keyboard, national news is treated with an and greeting yet another visitor objectivity that journalists from to his second-fl oor offi ce inside either political extreme fi nd laud- the headquarters of L’Osservatore able, Chila’ said. Romano, Antonio Chila’ serenely Though he said the number glides through the myriad of tasks of copies printed and sold “is a that continually fl y his way. secret,” the English edition alone Like a controller at a major reaches more than 129 countries. airport’s air traffi c control tower, Besides the daily paper in Ital- the chief editor of the Vatican ian, L’Osservatore Romano pub- newspaper must keep scores of lishes weekly editions in English, incoming calls, e-mails, edited French, Spanish, Portuguese, news articles, faxes, and requests German, and a monthly paper on his radar and guide them all in Polish. to their proper place. The future for reaching out to Freshly typed copy of Pope even more readers worldwide Benedict XVI’s remarks in Ger- is the Internet, Chila’ said, but man from his Oct. 25 general for now L’Osservatore Romano audience lands on Chila’s desk only has a copy of its front page just as the paper’s German sec- online. tion calls to say the text has been Through its new site, www. revised to refl ect the pope’s spo- photo.va, the paper now offers ken remarks. VATICAN NEWSPAPER STAFF — Staffers of L’Osservatore Romano work on laying out the fi nal copy of the next day’s for sale to the public its daily Translators check each pre- paper Oct. 25 at the Vatican. The Vatican newspaper’s editorial views correspond to Catholic teaching and positions taken trove and exhaustive archives written papal text against what by the pope. Images of Popes Benedict XVI and John Paul II reading L’Osservatore Romano are seen in the paper’s offi ce. of photos. the pope actually says, since he (CNS photo/Carol Glatz) Chila’ said staffers are looking often speaks off the cuff. Chila’ at ways to also sell L’Osservatore then sends the modifi ed copy by the capital. itself in “presenting the genuine a forceful champion of human Romano in its various language fax and e-mail to the Secretariat of The pope’s temporal power face of the church and the ideals of rights and a vocal proponent of editions online, but progress has State for approval before he can and the territories he controlled freedom,” said Cardinal Tarcisio peaceful, nonviolent solutions to stalled over fears of the potential direct it to the layout staff. were under increasing threat by Bertone, the Vatican’s secretary the political and social upheavals hacking of content. Just the barest hint of exaspera- growing Italian nationalism. Pon- of state. of the 20th century and beyond. “Our computer technicians tion tinges the chief editor’s voice tifi cal authorities soon supported L’Osservatore Romano became Each pope has used the pa- tell me that [hackers] can infi ltrate when an anxious caller urges the idea of having a newspaper “an instrument for spreading per as an international soapbox if they are good, and they’ve been him to publish a picture of her that would uphold the impor- the teachings of the successor of to launch appeals against “the able to break into NASA and CIA order’s mother superior kissing tance of the Papal States and the Peter and for information about useless massacre” of World War [Web sites] so imagine with our the pope’s hand at the audience values they espoused. church events,” he said in an Oct. I and to condemn anti-Semitism, paper,” he said. that wrapped up less than an The fi rst issue of L’Osservatore 24 speech inaugurating a new totalitarianism, and “atheist com- It is imperative the paper’s hour before. Romano appeared in Rome July exhibit dedicated to the founding munism.” content be absolutely immutable, “Sister, I know this is impor- 1, 1861, and was “deliberately and history of the newspaper. When Europe was darkened not only because readers expect to tant to you, but if I had to publish polemical and propagandist,” The Oct. 24-Nov. 10 exhibit, by World War II, the Vatican fi nd the pope’s exact words there, every photo of all the religious according to the Vatican’s Web housed in a city government newspaper spoke out against but also because it also acts as an and bishops who kiss the Holy site. building, was sponsored by injustices without threat of being offi cial record announcing papal Father’s hand, I would have to The paper’s motto, which both the Vatican newspaper silenced or shut down, and the appointments of a new bishop or put out a 250-page paper every remains unchanged today un- and the provincial government paper offered a ray of hope by cardinal, the creation of new dio- day,” he says, sighing into the der the masthead, included of Rome. documenting the church’s efforts ceses, and who the pope received phone. two snippets from the Gospels: The joint initiative refl ects the in providing food and shelter for in private audience, he said. Published within the Vatican, “Unicuique Suum” (“to each his mutual respect and collaboration Italy’s displaced. Though the paper “tries to be the semioffi cial newspaper was own”) and “Non Praevalebunt” that have colored church-state Chila’ told Catholic News objective to the utmost,” Chila’ born 145 years ago during a high- (the forces of evil “shall not pre- relations since the so-called “Ro- Service Oct. 25 that, just as it did said its content and editorial ly tumultuous time for the Papal vail”), said Chila’. man question” was resolved with then, L’Osservatore Romano still comment “come down hard” States. Italy’s unifi cation began But over time the newspaper the Lateran Pacts of 1929. exerts “notable infl uence” in both on abortion, euthanasia, and in 1861, and the new kingdom’s took on a more objective and pas- The exhibit shows how political and religious spheres. workers dying on the job due to fi rst legislators declared Rome toral stance, and today it prides L’Osservatore Romano has become Not only are readers 100 per- negligence. “In these cases we are, let’s say, very critical against those who Pope John Paul II changed media efforts of papacy, says carry out these crimes,” which also include unjust warfare, he Archbishop Foley, Vatican communications offi cial said. “We’ve had much difference By Cindy Wooden Father Giuseppe Mazza, a ized the relationship between the speeches delivered at a May con- of opinion with the United States VATICAN CITY (CNS) — professor of communications at media and faith, creating faith in ference at Gregorian University government” over its recent in- Pope John Paul II revolutionized Pontifi cal Gregorian University, the media,” Fr. Mazza said. by communications specialists, vasions of Iraq and Afghanistan, the communications efforts of said Pope John Paul and the The archbishop and the pro- scholars, journalists, and politi- he said. the papacy, particularly through media were “enchanted with fessor spoke at an Oct. 16 press cians. However, in the fog of rhetoric, his use of television, said U.S. each other.” conference marking the release The book also included a DVD the newspaper’s moral guidepost Archbishop John P. Foley. Overcoming concerns about of Karol Wojtyla: A Pontifi cate Live, of clips compiled by RAI, the is clear. “He gave himself to the world profaning the papacy by being a book of 60 Italian-language Italian state television network, “When the pope takes a posi- through the media,” said the extraordinarily available — in- essays about the late pope’s at- illustrating the points conference tion, that is our offi cial position archbishop, president of the cluding holding full-blown press titude toward the media and their speakers made about the pope’s which we go with and follow,” Pontifi cal Council for Social Com- conferences during papal trips attitudes toward him. mastery of television communi- he said. munications. — Pope John Paul “revolution- The essays are based on cations. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 25 Diocesan / State Page 26 NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Diocesan Chicago priest calls for priests with ‘wisdom and intelligence’ SCHAUMBURG, Illinois (CNS) the course of ministry is not so He said another view, often hood is that they do not address “All this takes wisdom and intel- — The church needs priests with prominent as it might have been associated more commonly with the question of a priest’s intel- ligence. And it is a task that daily “wisdom and intelligence” to previously.” priests ordained in the past 20 lectual engagement, Fr. Cameli confronts a knowing priest.” preach the faith effectively amid Fr. Cameli received the years, is the cultic model, that said. “He only needs to be who He said morality is another the challenges of today’s culture, NCEA’s John Paul II Seminary “priests act in the name and he is. If ideas are required, he has issue that calls for great wisdom Father Louis Cameli told the Leadership Award during the person of Jesus Christ, shepherd available to him The Catechism of from priests. “Although our National Catholic Educational convocation. He was chief edi- and head of the church,” espe- the Catholic Church and the Code moral principles and directives Association’s annual seminary tor of the fi fth edition of the U.S. cially in the celebration of the of Canon Law. ... The issue is are clear and correct, we have convocation in Schaumburg, a bishops’ Program of Priestly For- sacraments. not thinking but repeating the not been so clear and helpful in Chicago suburb. mation, which was published this The second view is certainly relevant texts.” providing people with a moral Fr. Cameli, a pastor in Nor- summer after receiving Vatican theologically correct, he said, but “We very much need a priest- infrastructure for living them ridge and former Chicago archdi- approval, and of the National it can lead to “a confused personal hood and priestly ministry that out,” he said. “A moral infra- ocesan director of ongoing forma- Plan for the Ongoing Formation identifi cation with Christ.” is marked by a strong and inte- structure means those resources tion for priests, suggested that the of Priests adopted by the U.S. He reminded his listeners that gral intelligence,” he said, be- and supports that enable persons two main models of priesthood bishops in 2000. immediately after pronouncing cause priestly ministry is where to deal with the challenges of em- often discussed in U.S. church In his talk he said one view the words of consecration and church teaching and theology bodying the values of the Gospel, circles over the past four decades of priesthood, often linked with raising the host, the priest genu- meet the issues of the world “on most especially in a nonsupport- have not put enough emphasis on those ordained between 1965 fl ects before it. “This gesture that the front line.” ive world.” the intellectual demands of the and 1985, was the servant-leader follows so quickly his acting in Since the era of Constantine, Some of the “ferocious hostil- priesthood. model, or the pastoral person the person of Christ says that the church has been moving in ity of gay activists toward the “It seems that the intellectual who “brings not special teach- he is not Christ, that he falls in the direction of what has been Catholic Church has something capacity of priests is of lesser ing or a privileged body of adoration before his crucified called “’massive Christianity,’ to do with the moral position of importance than it was in years knowledge but rather a knack for and living Lord,” he said. baptizing large numbers with church teaching, but even more past,” he said. “It also seems support, affi rmation, and solace One problem with both those the hope that catechesis and for- perhaps with the church’s failure that the exercise of intellect in when needed.” widely used models of priest- mation would follow initiation,” to provide a moral infrastructure he said. He said that worked to live out the values that the all, just an opportunity to enjoy “Did you hear that?” I asked after a fashion in Christian-in- church enunciates,” he said. Hamer… watching parents and children my daughter Meredith, who fused cultures, but in a culture In that connection he praised celebrating an autumn social in was steering Sam and Nattie more hostile to the faith “we are Father John Harvey, the Oblate of the outside night air. Hundreds through the crowds. shifting and calling people to a St. Francis de Sales who started From page 11 of families, whether or not “How odd,” I went on. more intentional and deliberate Courage, a network of Catho- to my car, with papers in hand, they could afford the price of “When we want our children Christian commitment.” lic support groups dedicated wind blowing their hair back, admission, paid to bring their to listen, all generations say He said a priest needs a deep to helping homosexuals live and smiles threatening to pop children to a community party the same thing: ‘Look at me.’ understanding of the faith to chastely. “Some might question off their faces. where they would celebrate a Not ‘Listen to me,’ but ‘Look at assess the complex questions his specific strategies, but his Those were days that went custom that is part of our col- me.’” raised by those issues and to act outreach is a rare and practical by faster than trees lose their lective memory. “I know,” Meredith an- effectively. example of what I mean by pro- fall leaves in North Texas, mo- However it is that they do it, swered. “I say, ‘Look in my He cited the issues of resis- viding a moral infrastructure,” ments that were shorter than whether they choose to dress eyes.’” tance to culture and accommo- Fr. Cameli said. the time between the fi rst day as cartoon characters or robots, Sounded to me like a dation to it as another area re- He said priests face similar of November and the fi rst day and whether or not their par- tangled combination of instruc- quiring priestly intelligence. “It complex challenges demand- of January in every rapidly-fl y- enting skills are of the super- tion, direction and hypnotic is a complicated dance to make ing intellectual engagement ing year. hero variety, parents want good suggestion. But who was I to faith come alive in a culture and on a variety of other issues, If I could be Mrs. Incred- things for their children. Good judge my daughter’s mother- at the same time to critique and ranging from abortion, artifi cial ible, I would use my superhero health and education. Good ing methods. She is a psy- purify that culture, to embody contraception, and divorce and powers to fi x that. To slow food and fun. chologist, and in fact I might faith in culture, and to resist the remarriage to just wages and down the speed of things. And hopefully they strive for say her youth and parenting culture prophetically,” he said. immigration issues. Now, after speeding days a solid foundation of faith. All skills make her an ‘Incredible’ and fl ourishing joys, after those things are the things we — without the costume. the costuming, teaching, and worked on before them, and the I, on the other hand, am graduating of fi ve children, I things they will spend good time merely a seamstress who spe- fi nd myself the grandmother and money to continue after. cializes in candy clothing. of three, and it is a lot easier “Let’s line up over here and Kathy Cribari By Jean Denton than mothering, even though it shoot baskets,” parents would Hamer, a member of St. Copyright © 2006, Jean Denton sometimes is a little sad. lure their children to the game Andrew’s, has fi ve chil- For grandparents it may be booths. “Let’s have something dren, Meredith, John, easier, I think, not because we to drink. Would you like to Julie, Andrew, and “give the kids back to their par- watch a magic show? Over Abby. Her column is syndicated ents,” but because we gave the there we can see the animals! in a number of the best Catholic parents to those kids. Because Walk carefully. Say ‘Excuse me.’ diocesan newspapers across the we already did it, taking care Hold my hand.” U.S. In May of 2005, her column of kids is easier now than it felt And many times I heard par- received the fi rst place award for like it was then — incredible. ents repeating a phrase that we best family life column by the That night at the Halloween all think we invented: “Look at Catholic Press Association of the party, I had no responsibility at me.” U.S. and Canada. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 27 Calendar

‘TODAY, TOMORROW, FOREVER’ LITURGICAL CONFERENCE POLKA MASS ‘BOOTS ’N BOWTIES’ A day of preparation for couples seeking To Report Misconduct The 45th annual Southwest Liturgical Sacred Heart Catholic Community in Sey- St. John the Apostle School, 7421 Glenview to have their marriage validated within the If you or someone you know is a victim Conference Study Week will be held Jan. mour will celebrate with neighbors Nov. 12 Dr., North Richland Hills, will host its an- Catholic Church will be offered Nov. 11 from of sexual misconduct by anyone who 17-20 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, at the beginning with a special 11 a.m. Sunday nual Boots ’n Bowties Auction Nov. 11. The 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by the diocesan Fam- serves the church, you may Cox Business Services Convention Center. To Polka Mass at Sacred Heart Church on event will be held in the school gym from ily Life Office. The one-day session, entitled • Call Judy Locke, victim request a brochure or for more information, North Cedar Street in Seymour. After Mass 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., and will consist of dinner “Today … Tomorrow … Forever,” will be assistance coordinator, contact the Office of Worship and Spiritual a Czech Olde World Dinner, featuring Bohe- catered by Outback Steakhouse, live and held at The Catholic Center, 800 West Loop (817) 560-2452 ext. 201 Life, P.O. Box 32180, Oklahoma City, OK mian sausage, turkey, and kolaches, will be silent auctions, and a dance. Ticket price for 820 South in West Fort Worth. Topics to be or e-mail her at [email protected] 73123 or call (405) 721-5651. Information served at Sacred Heart’s Mosler Hall until the evening of festivity is $40 per person. discussed will include “Marriage as a Sac- • Or call the Sexual Abuse Hotline may also be obtained by visiting the Web 1:30 p.m. An auction will follow at 2 p.m. For reservations and additional information, rament,” “Commitment,” “Communication,” (817) 560-2452 ext. 900 site at www.swlc.org. There will also be a country store full of contact Pam Lazenby at (817) 284-2228 or “Conflict Resolution,” and “Intimacy.” Time • Or call The Catholic Center at (817) baked goods and crafts for purchase. Sacred by e-mail to [email protected]. will be set aside for couples to strengthen 560-2452 ext. 107 and ask for the vicar ROME PILGRIMAGE Heart Parish is located two-and-one-half their relationships with regard to these general, Father Michael Olson. Bishop Kevin Vann and Father Michael hours from the Fort Worth area going 199 SVDP GOLF TOURNAMENT topic areas, as well as to focus upon their Holmberg, associate pastor at St. Michael west to Jacksboro and then 114 west to St. Vincent de Paul Men’s Club Golf Tour- To Report Abuse Church in Bedford, will lead a Rome pilgrim- nament benefiting Holy Rosary School will individual relationships. For more informa- Call the Texas Department of Family Seymour. All are welcome. age designed especially for young adults be held Nov. 11 at Mansfield National Golf tion or to register, call the diocesan Family Protective Services (Child Protective March 10-18, 2007. The trip is described Course, 3750 National Parkway, Mansfield. Life Office at (817) 560-2452 ext. 304 or Services) TURKEY DINNER by organizers as a spiritual, educational, There will be a 1 p.m. shotgun start. The ext. 256 or visit the diocesan Web site at 1 (800) 252-5400 St. Thomas the Apostle Church will host www.fwdioc.org. and cultural journey. All young adults, their its annual turkey dinner, sponsored by the price of $65 per person includes golf and family members, and friends are invited to Women’s Organization, Nov. 12. Turkey range balls. To sign up for the tourna- ELDER CARE SEMINARS RETIREMENT CELEBRATION participate. The cost is $2,500 per person and dressing with all the trimmings will ment or to make a donation, contact Brian St. Michael Church, in conjunction with the A celebration honoring the contributions of for double occupancy. For details, visit be served following all the Masses from Murphy at (817) 451-9144 or by e-mail to Area Agency on Aging of Tarrant County, longtime diocesan employees Charmaine online at www.travelillume.com/trc/hfw, or 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parish hall located [email protected], or call Pat Irwin will continue the Elder Care seminar series Williams, Sandra Leighton, and Sister call (817) 283-8666 ext. 55. at 2920 Azle Ave., Fort Worth. Carryout at (817) 919-0485. through April 2007. These free sessions Donna Ferguson, SSMN, will be held Nov. plates will be available. The cost is $7 for are open to anyone currently caring for CHRISTMAS BOOK SALE 30 at Good Shepherd Church, 1000 Tinker DCCW MEETING a large plate and $4 for a small plate. For an elderly person or who would like to be The Catholic Renewal Center, 4503 Bridge Road, Colleyville. The celebration will mark All women are invited to attend the quarterly more information, call the parish office at prepared for the future. Seminar participants Street, Fort Worth, will hold its annual the retirement of the three women, and will luncheon meeting of the DCCW Central/East (817) 624-2184. will receive practical information and tools include an evening prayer service, beginning Deanery featuring Joleen Dubois as the Christmas Book Sale Nov. 17-19. Many to prepare and assist them in their roles at 6:30 p.m. in the church. The following guest speaker. The meeting, hosted by the gift items and books will be available for as caregivers. Seminars will be held at St. reception, to be held in the parish hall, will deaneries council board of directors, will be ‘LITTLE GOBBLER PARTY’ purchase at a special sale price. For ad- Holy Rosary School, 2015 S.W. Green Oaks Michael Church, 3713 Harwood Road in conclude by 9 p.m. All are invited to attend. held at St. Matthew Parish, 2021 New York ditional information, contact the CRC at Blvd., Arlington, invites all parish toddlers Bedford. To see a full list of seminar top- For more information about the celebration Ave., Arlington. Dubois will offer a presenta- (817) 429-2920. and pre-schoolers to “A Little Gobbler ics and for more information, visit the Web or to RSVP prior to the Nov. 20 deadline, tion on “Annulment in the Church.” Dubois Thanksgiving Party” Nov. 17 from 9 a.m. DOUG BRUMMEL EVENING site at www.smcchurch.org. To learn more call The Catholic Center at (817) 560-3300 serves as a case coordinator/assessor in the to 11 a.m. in the school library. Admission Holy Family Church, 6150 Pershing Ave., about the Area Agency on Aging of Tarrant or e-mail to [email protected]. Marriage Tribunal Office for the Diocese of County, visit online at www.aaatc.org. Up- Fort Worth. Registration will begin at 9:30 is free for a morning full of stories, songs, Fort Worth, will host a Whole-Commu- coming dates and topics include: “Housing a.m. The service project for this meeting a Turkey Play, snacks, and crafts. For more nity Celebration featuring church come- Options,” Nov. 6; “Managing the Holidays: Would the following person call will be a Thanksgiving food drive for parish information and to make reservations, call dian, Doug Brummel. Brummel’s one-man, Stress, Time and Family,” Nov. 20; “Safety Sandra Leighton at food pantries. Reservations must be made (817) 419-6800. character-changing show “Lighten Up!” and Independence 1,” Dec. 4; and “Safety (817) 560-3300 ext. 200. by noon, Monday, Nov. 13, by calling Mary will be held Dec. 4 and 5 at 6:47 p.m. Admission is free, and all are welcome. and Independence 2,” Dec. 18. Carolyn Belcher DelRio at (817) 838-8120 or Pat Coffey at ‘COME AND SEE WEEKEND’ A free-will donation will be accepted. For (817) 657-2823. The Sisters of the Holy Spirit will host a SINGLES RETREAT WEEKEND additional information, call Genni Sayers at NOLAN CATHOLIC OPEN HOUSE “Come and See” weekend at Holy Spirit (817) 737-6768 ext. 109. A Singles Retreat Weekend at Montserrat INTERFAITH THANKSGIVING Retreat Center in San Antonio. The weekend Nolan Catholic High School, 4501 Bridge St., An interfaith Thanksgiving service will be Jesuit Retreat House will be held Nov. 17-19. will begin Friday, Dec. 8, at 5 p.m. and Fort Worth, will host an Open House Nov. 11 celebrated Nov. 19 at St. Philip the Apostle SINGLES CHRISTMAS DANCE The retreat will offer a predominately silent continue through Sunday, Dec. 10, at 1 p.m. The Holy Family Church Singles Ministry from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. This event will offer Church’s Community Life Center, 1897 W. atmosphere with prayer sessions, Mass, The Sisters of the Holy Spirit, inspired by will hold its annual Christmas Dance Dec. an opportunity for parents to learn more Main Street, Lewisville. People of all faiths confession, and spiritual time for discussions their foundress Margaret Mary Healy Murphy, 9 from 8 p.m. to midnight in the parish’s about Nolan Catholic and to meet and visit from Lewisville, Flower Mound, Highland with Jesuit staff. Meals will be provided from are called to minister to persons who are Family Life Center, 6150 Pershing Ave., with administrators and students. For more Village, and surrounding communities are Friday dinner through Sunday lunch. For marginated, oppressed, or economically Fort Worth. The cost of the dance is $6 information about Nolan Catholic, visit the invited to participate. In the tradition be- more information or to make a reservation, poor. For more information, contact Sister per person plus a dish to share. For more school’s Web site at www.nolancatholichs. gun with the international interfaith prayer call (940) 321-6020 or e-mail to retreat1@ Veronica Cahill by phone at (210) 533-5149 information or to make a reservation, call org or call Maureen Barisonek at (817) services held in Assisi, Italy, each faith airmail.net. The donation fee is adjustable, or via e-mail to [email protected]. Other Monica Molina at (817) 737-6768, Vince 457-2920. will be invited to assemble while a leader if there is a need. Montserrat is located at information may be found on the diocesan Chairez at (817) 896-5726, or Sylvia Salinas presents a three-minute outline of its faith’s 600 N. Shady Shores, Lake Dallas. ‘HOLY HAPPY HOUR’ Web site at www.fwdioc.org. at (817) 845-2718. basic beliefs, and then offers a five-minute St. Maria Goretti Church will host “H3: prayer in its traditional prayer language or MINISTRY FOR GAYS / LESBIANS Holy Happy Hour.” This series will offer an in English. The leader of each faith group The regular fourth Thursday monthly meeting opportunity to learn about and discuss con- is asked to contact Kathleen Easler at (817) of the Fort Worth Diocesan Ministry with temporary issues with regard to the truths of Classifi ed Section 430-2454 or send an e-mail to kathleen- Lesbian and Gay Catholics, Other Sexual Catholicism in a casual social setting once [email protected] indicating a group’s Minorities, and Their Families will not be a month at J. Gilligan’s, 400 E. Abram St. in DIRECTOR OF CHILD plan to participate so that adequate seating DIRECTOR OF TRIBUNAL held in November and December because Arlington. The next session will be held Nov. may be arranged in advance. Groups are AND YOUTH PROTECTION The Diocese of Fort Worth is seeking of the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. 14 with guest speaker Colleen Hammond, invited also to bring musical accompanists The Diocese of Fort Worth is seeking applicants for the position of director of All who are interested, including parents model, actress, and past Miss Michigan or a choral group to share in the program. applicants for the position of Diocesan the Tribunal. The director of the Tribunal and friends, are invited to attend the 5 p.m. National Teenager. Hammond will present For more information, call Kathleen Easler Director of Child and Youth Protection. is responsible for managing and directing Mass at St. John the Apostle Church, 7341 “Living Your Faith in the 21st Century in a before Nov. 15. The director is responsible for devel- the resolution of marriage cases within Glenview Dr., North Richland Hills, Dec. 9. World of Negative Influences.” Doors will oping, implementing, and maintaining the Diocese of Fort Worth according to Following the Mass, there will be a potluck open for food and drinks at 6 p.m., and DALLAS YOUNG SERRANS the diocesan response to the USCCB’s the policies and procedures established dinner in the Family Life Center. Meats will the speaker will begin at 7 p.m. For more The Young Serrans of Dallas are individuals, “Charter for the Protection of Children by the Code of Canon Law. Qualified be provided. Food may be dropped off at the information, contact Lucas Pollice in the single or married, mainly in their 20s or 30s, and Young People” for training, com- candidates will possess an understanding Family Life Center beginning at 3 p.m. on St. Maria Goretti Faith Formation Office at who meet regularly for Mass, eucharistic pliance, and reporting. The director of the theology of marriage and marriage Saturday. The next regular meeting of the (817) 274-0643 ext. 226 or by e-mail to adoration, dinners, and topical studies is also responsible at the diocesan law as informed by the jurisprudence of ministry will be held Thursday, Jan. 25, at 7 [email protected]. p.m. at the Catholic Renewal Center, 4503 (Scripture, Church History, Vatican II, Saints, level for the coordination, communica- the Rota, as well as knowledge of the Bridge Street in East Fort Worth, adjacent to etc.). The group participates in a unique tion, implementation, and support of norms governing Tribunals as set forth by combination of spiritual, service, and social Dignitas Connubii. In addition, applicants Nolan Catholic High School. For additional Catholic Pilgrimages compliance with the Safe Environment information, contact Father Warren Murphy, activities. For more information, contact Program (Keeping Children, Youth, and must have excellent administrative and TOR, at (817) 927-5383, Deacon Richard From DFW Cheryl by e-mail to youngserracommunity@ Vulnerable Adults Safe). The director collaborative skills including the ability to Fatima-Lourdes-Italy-Poland-Mexico- Griego at (817) 421-1387, or Hank and yahoo.com or call (972) 488-8578. will manage the staff and volunteers recruit and train volunteers, clergy, and Medjugorje and more. Accompanied Dottie Cummins at (817) 861-5772. of the Safe Environment Program. members of the laity who assist in the by a priest with daily Mass and rosary Qualified candidates will hold a BA or canonical procedures of marriage cases. Applicants must be practicing Catholics COURAGE D/FW Call Renaissance Pilgrimages at Adrian’s Floor & equivalent in theology, pastoral ministry, and have some experience working or Courage D/FW, a spiritual support group for 1 (866) 295-8687 (toll-free) or visit social work, or a related field. Extensive The Tile Dentist volunteering in the Catholic Church. those striving to live chaste lives according www.renpilgrim.com. training experience and administrative to the Catholic Church’s teachings on Tile Sales & Installation skills are required. Applicants must Proficiency in Spanish is desired. Contact Steve Landon at [email protected] or homosexuality, meets every second and • Floors • Walls • Decorative Tiles be practicing Catholics and have prior fourth Friday evening. For information, e- work experience in the Catholic Church (817) 560-2452 ext. 154 for a required mail to [email protected] or call Now Your Parents Can Live Tile & Grout relating to child protection or child application. Applications will be accepted (972) 938-5433. advocacy. Proficiency in Spanish is a until Nov. 15. At Home • Cleaning • Sealing • Repairs • plus. Contact Steve Landon at slandon@ ST. AUGUSTINE’S GROUP Re-grouting/Recaulking of fl oors, fwdioc.org or (817) 560-2452 ext. 154 SERVICES AVAILABLE Their comfort is our first priority. St. Augustine’s Men’s Purity Group, a for a required application. Applications Topsoil, sand, gravel, washed materials, Up to 24-hour care. tubs, showers & more ministry for men who struggle with sexual will be accepted until Nov. 7. driveways, concrete, backhoe, and tractor impurity issues on the Internet and other Hygiene asst., meals, New Sales & Installation services. Custom mowing lots and acres. sources, meets Tuesdays at 7 p.m. The light housework, companionship, HOME CAREGIVERS Call (817) 732-4083. meetings are held in Room 213 at St. custom care plans • Wood • Laminates Visiting Angels, a non-medical home- Elizabeth Ann Seton School, located at 2016 Visiting Angels® • Carpet • Vinyl • Tile care service, is seeking experienced ADVERTISE IN THE Willis Lane, Keller. For additional informa- www.visitingangels.com/fortworth caregivers for on-call positions, PT to NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC (817) 913-5579 live-in. Great supplemental income. Call tion, visit the Web site at www.sampg.org, (817) 560-3300 or e-mail to Mark at seasmenspurity@ (817) 224-9700 www.adriansflooring.com (817) 224-9701. yahoo.com. NORTH TEXAS CATHOLIC, November 3, 2006 Page 28 Good Newsmaker

By Jean M. Schildz / ST. LOUIS REVIEW Newspaper of the Archdiocese of St. Louis Left: St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Jeff Suppan chats with the crowd while waiting to give a talk on living out his Catholic faith at Above: St. Joseph’s Academy in Frontenac, Mo., Sept. 14. Catholic St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher More than 400 middle- Jeff Suppan throws in school and high-school the fi rst inning of game students along with adults four of Major League heard the professional Baseball’s World Series baseball player explain why against the Detroit Tigers in St. Louis Oct. 26. his faith is so important The Cardinals won the to him. His talk was World Series against the sponsored by the Parent Tigers in game fi ve in Network of Catholic High St. Louis Oct. 27. (CNS Schools. (CNS photo/Mark photo/John Mabanglo, Kempf, ST. LOUIS REVIEW) Reuters)

t. Louis “I try to put Jesus in front of friend, he began to seriously Now in his 12th season in the everything I do,” said Suppan, study his faith, so he could be majors, Suppan noted that play- Cardinals adding that he tries to let Jesus better prepared to defend it. ing sports is good preparation pitcher Jeff lead him and not “try to do it on “People always ask me for life. “I always made baseball my own.” why I believe what I do. And practice. That’s discipline, and “My biggest Suppan wowed As Catholics, they will be the only response I had was you can apply that to your faith regularly questioned about ‘because I believe.’ My big- and many areas of your life. challenge was to his fans one day in their faith, Suppan told the gest challenge was to learn, to That dedication and fortitude youths. Now, he said, is the take my formation and learn that I learned going through learn, to take my September, and he time for them to gain a good more about why I believed.... I rough times, I’ve applied that to foundation. believed 100 percent, but I had my life as a Christian.” formation and wasn’t even on the “You need to know why you to learn why.” Prayer, he said, also plays mound. believe in what you believe A priest he met in Boston a big role. He tries “to remain learn more about in, because you will be chal- got him going to confession in prayer. When I struggle, I He received a standing ova- lenged” by others, particularly regularly. He found that the pray. When I’m not struggling, why I believed.... tion from more than 400 youths other Christians, he said. more he went to confession and I pray,” he said, noting that he and adults following his talk on That has been his experi- examined his conscience, the keeps a rosary in his ballpark I believed 100 how he lives out his Catholic ence, Suppan said. Growing up more he felt Jesus was helping locker. faith as a professional baseball in California, he attended St. him “carry the load.” Suppan “Pray to your angel,” he told percent, but I had player and in his daily life. Bernardine of Siena School in said he encounters Christ in the crowd. “Use your angel’s Suppan spoke at St. Joseph’s San Bernardino and Crespi Car- confession and receives grace help. I always actually ask for to learn why.” Academy in Frontenac. The melite High School, an all-boys to help overcome future temp- the protection of my angel. I event was sponsored by the Catholic school in Encino. tations. think it’s important because Parent Network of Catholic At 18, he signed to play Suppan also spoke about the there’s a big battle out there High Schools. baseball right out of high importance of the Eucharist, at- going on over us. You guys may The Cardinals hurler — whose school and never went to col- tending Mass, and taking part not see it, but just remember, dict XVI, and to Assisi, Italy. team won the World Series in lege. It was his fi rst time away in eucharistic adoration. pray to your angel for protec- He also took several questions fi ve games in October, defeating from family and friends. Drugs, He told the crowd, “I love tion.” from the audience, even draw- the Detroit Tigers — encour- promiscuity, sex, and pornogra- going to Mass. Nothing about During his talk he showed ing laughter with tongue-in- aged the middle school and high phy were readily available. He Jesus is boring to me.... Because a 16-minute home movie of his cheek responses. Asked what school students “to keep Jesus turned to God for help. Jesus sacrifi ced for me, it’s the November 2005 visit to the Vati- his favorite pitch was, Suppan No. 1” in their lives. At the encouragement of a least I could do.” can, where he met Pope Bene- replied, “A strike.”

MAILING LABEL: Please enclose label with address change or inquiries concerning mail delivery of your paper. Thank you. Inside... This issue of the NTC In English and Spanish, we have The bishops of Texas, through the The Catholics of Electra celebrat- an account of the fi rst retreat Texas Catholic Conference, have ed 100 years of Catholic pres- conducted in Spanish for men provided us with some principles ence recently. The community and women seeking to discern to help us vote in accord with of Mt. Carmel was one of many their vocations. our Catholic faith this planted by the 3 & 21 November. 9 Flusche brothers. 14