SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:57 AM Page 1 Sooner Catholic Serving the People of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Volume 34, Number 16 * August 26, 2007

Walking in Faith Archdiocese Blessed with 18 Men Currently in Seminary

Archbishop Beltran, Father William Novak, Father Tim Luschen and Father Lowell Stieferman are flanked by 17 of the 18 men currently studying in the seminary from the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Not pictured is Cory Stanley, in seminary at Pontifical North American College in Vatican City. Individual photos and more information can be found on Page 3. Sooner Catholic Photo/Cara Koenig

Inside Couple Tells Little Flower How Ministry Church Turns Out Helped Save to Pray, Celebrate Their Marriage New Center 5 20 SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:57 AM Page 2

2 Sooner Catholic ● August 26, 2007

The Main Event, Wrestling With God Sooner Catholic In his memoir, Report to Greco, only after first begging his father for a tionship, unquestion- Most Reverend Nikos Kazantzakis shares this story: reprieve. As Rabbi Heschel puts it, ing reverence is not As a young man, he spent a summer in from Abraham through Jesus we see necessarily a sign of Eusebius J. Beltran a monastery during which he had a how the great figures of our faith are mature intimacy. Archbishop of Oklahoma City series of conversations with an old not in the habit of easily saying: “Thy Old friends, precisely Publisher monk. One day he asked the old monk: will be done!” but often, for a while at because they know “Father, do you still do battle with the least, counter God’s invitation with: and trust each other, devil?” The old monk replied: “No, I “Thy will be changed!” can risk a boldness in Ray Dyer used to, when I was younger, but now Struggling with God’s will and their friendship that Editor I have grown old and tired and the offering resistance to what it calls us younger, less mature, By Father devil has grown old and tired with me. to can be a bad thing, but it can also be friendship cannot. Ron Rolheiser Cara Koenig I leave him alone and he leaves me a mature form of prayer. The Book of That is also true Layout/Design/ alone.” “So your life is easy then?” Genesis describes an incident where in our relationship with God. God remarked Kazantzakis. “Oh no,” Jacob wrestled with a spirit for a expects that, at some point, we will Photographer replied the monk, “it’s much worse, whole night and in the morning that kick against his will and offer some now I wrestle with God!” spirit turned out to be God. What a resistance. But we should lay out our perfect icon for prayer! A human being Mauro Yanez There’s a lot contained in that hearts in honesty. Jesus did. and God, wrestling in the dust of Hispanic Editor remark — “I wrestle with God.” God expects some resistance. As Among other things, it suggests that this earth! Doesn’t that accurately describe the human struggle? Nikos Kazantzakis puts it: the struggles in later life can be very The struggle between God and Eileen Dugan different than what we struggle with We would do well to integrate this, humans breaks out in everyone, Staff Writer earlier on. In the normal pattern of the concept of wrestling with God, into together with the longing for reconcil- things, we spend the first half of our our understanding of faith and prayer. iation. Most often this struggle is lives struggling with sensuality, greed We honor neither ourselves nor the Jan Hornberger-Gililland Scriptures when we make things too unconscious and short-lived. A weak and sexuality, and spend the last half Office of our lives struggling with anger and simple. Human will doesn’t bend soul does not have the endurance to forgiveness — and that anger is often, easily, nor should it, and the heart has resist the flesh for very long. It grows however unconsciously, focused on complexities that need to be respected, heavy, becomes flesh itself, and the 7501 Northwest Expressway contest ends. But among responsible God. In the end, our real struggle is even as we try to rein in its more Oklahoma City, OK 73132 with God. possessive longings. God, who built persons who keep their eyes riveted (405) 721-1810 Fax: (405) 721-5210 But wrestling with God has us, understands this and is up to the day and night upon the supreme duty, e-mail: [email protected] another aspect. It invites us to a task of wrestling with us and our the conflict between flesh and spirit certain kind of prayer. Prayer isn’t resistance. breaks out mercilessly and may last Mailing Address meant to be a simple acquiescence to The classical mystics speak of until death. The stronger the soul P.O. Box 32180 and the flesh, the more fruitful the God’s will. It’s meant to be an acquies- something they call “being bold with Oklahoma City, OK 73123 cence, yes, but a mature acquiescence, God.” This “boldness,” they suggest, struggle and the richer the final come to at the end of a long struggle. comes not at the beginning of the harmony. The spirit wants to have to Visit us on line through the We see this in the prayer of the spiritual journey, but more toward the wrestle with flesh which is strong and Archdiocesan Web Page at great figures in Scripture: Abraham, end of it, when, after a long period of full of resistance. It is a carnivorous www.catharchdioceseokc.org. Moses, Jesus, the apostles. Abraham fidelity, we are intimate enough with bird which is incessantly hungry; it argues with God and initially talks God to precisely be “bold,” as friends eats flesh and, by assimilating it, him out of destroying Sodom; Moses at who have known each other for a makes it disappear. The Sooner Catholic (USPS 066-910) is first resists his call, protesting that his long time have a right to be. That’s a Oblate Father Ron Rolheiser, published biweekly except for once in July brother is better suited for the job; the valuable insight: After you have been theologian, teacher and award- and twice in December by the Archdiocese apostles excuse themselves for a long friends with someone for a long time, winning author, is president of the of Oklahoma City. time before finally putting their lives you can be comfortable with express- Oblate School of Theology in San on the line; and Jesus gives himself ing your needs to him or her and in Antonio. He can be contacted through over in the Garden of Gethsemane the context of a long, sustained rela- his Web site www.ronrolheiser.com. The newspaper is not responsible for unsolicited material.

Seminary Burses OFFICIAL Copyright © 2007 Sooner Catholic A $200 donation was made to the Father Bernard J. Havlik Father Stanley Rother Seminary $26,450.01 Newly Appointed Vicars Subscription rate: $20 per year for all Burse by an anonymous donor. Effective August 13, 2007 who are not members of the Father James A. Kastner Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. A $25 donation was made to the Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma $9,619.99 Region IA - Father Stanley Rother Seminary City, OK 73125. Reverend Michael L. Chapman Burse by an anonymous donor. Bishop Stephen A. Leven Region IB - POSTMASTER: Send address changes $57,127.73 to the Sooner Catholic, P.O. Box A $1000 donation was made to the Reverend Edward T. Menasco 32180, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. Father Joseph Beltran Seminary Father John A. Petuskey Region IIA - Burse by the family of $11,849.99 Reverend William L. Novak Father James D. Knight. Region IV - Reverend James A. Goin Father Clement E. Pribil A $100 donation was made to the $4,751.42 Father Joseph Beltran Seminary Burse by Our Lady’s Cathedral. Father Stanley Rother Father Joseph Beltran $161,831.99 Most Reverend Eusebius J. Beltran $71,618.16 Archbishop of Oklahoma City Archbishop Charles Salatka Father Denis Blackledge $185,195.00 $8,336.95 The Sooner Catholic is supported Father Gerald Ucker through the Archdiocesan Father Wade Darnall $8,570.00 Reverend Edward J. Weisenburger Development Fund. $5,525.00 Totals as of 7/31/2007 Vicar General SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:57 AM Page 3

August 26, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 3 Prayer for Religious Vocations Pray for Our Seminarians Gracious and loving God, help the men and women of our Archdiocese to hear the call to serve the people of God. Pastoral Year Theology 4 Our needs are great and our people thirst for your presence. Joseph Christopher Schwarz Tran Open the hearts of many, raise up faithful servants of the Gospel, dedicated holy priests, sisters, brothers and deacons, who will dedicate themselves for St. Mary Blessed John Your people and their needs. Church, XXIII National Bless those who are serving now with courage and perseverance. Ponca City Seminary

Grant that many will be inspired by their example and faith. Home Parish: Home Parish: We ask this through Christ our Lord. Holy Trinity, Saint Andrew Okarche Dung-Lac, OKC Amen

Theology 4 Theology 3 Theology 3 Theology 2 James William Long Phan Carson Wickersham Lewis Krittenbrink Notre Dame St. Charles Saint Charles Notre Dame Seminary Borromeo Borromeo Seminary Seminary Seminary Home Parish: Home Parish: St. Andrew- Home Parish: Home Parish: Immaculate Dung-Lac, Saints Peter Saint Thomas Conception, OKC and Paul, More, Norman OKC Kingfisher

Theology 1 Theology 1 Theology 1 Pre-Theology 2 Gerald Cory Stanley Zakary Spitz Philip Curren Caughlin Pontifical St. Charles North Kenrick Notre Dame American Borromeo Glennon College Seminary Seminary Seminary Vatican City Home Parish: Home Parish: Home Parish: Home Parish: St. Anne, St. Joseph, St. Benedict, Holy Spirit, Cordell Tonkawa Shawnee Mustang

Pre-Theology 1 Pre-Theology College 4 College 3 Brian Vicente William Robert Miller Buettner Lopez James Conception Conception Notre Dame Conception Seminary Seminary Seminary Seminary College College College Home Parish: Home Parish: Home Parish: Little Flower, Home Parish: St. Charles St. Mark, OKC St. James, Borromeo, Norman OKC OKC

College 2 College 2 College 1 College 1 Cristobal Daniel Andrew Horn John Paul Deloera Grover Lewis Conception Conception Conception Seminary Conception Seminary Seminary College Seminary College College College Home Parish: Home Parish: Home Parish: St. John the Home Parish: St. Charles St. Andrew, Baptist, Cathedral of Borromeo, Moore Edmond Our Lady of OKC Perpetual Help SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:57 AM Page 4

4 Sooner Catholic ● August 26, 2007 Ethical Blind Spots: Are We the People Who Turn Away? When I traveled to Auschwitz a few years ago, one question played over and over in my mind: Did Making Sense they know? Did the German people know what was happening in this camp near their own border, in Out of Bioethics their own occupied territories? With the trains coming and going year after year, with the long Father Tad Pacholczyk, Ph.D. lines of prisoners and the billowing smokestacks, did they just turn a blind eye to the atrocities? Had they become desensitized to the point that they by the numbers: in vitro fertilization making could no longer see the carefully choreographed hundreds of thousands of embryonic humans, to be death operations nearby? chilled in liquid nitrogen and turned into, in the Some concentration camps, like the one in words of one commentator, “kidsicles.” They are Dachau, were set in comfortable suburbs right sure to deplore the many other human embryos inside Germany itself, and the townsfolk could treated as objects, discarded as medical waste, stroll past them during their daily routine. The poured down the sink or experimented upon and grass in those suburbs continued to grow as green strip-mined for their embryonic stem cells. as anywhere else, young people got married, babies were born, men went to work, and life went on. Walking through a place like Dachau or Auschwitz, one wonders: Could it ever happen Martin Luther King Jr. used to again? Could a similar scenario play out today in say that what pained him the middle-class America? Most would instinctively say no — after all, we live in a more enlightened most was the silence of the good. time and culture. A more perceptive eye, however, can discern troubling parallels. Nowhere are these parallels more evident than in the bioethical issues There is a certain banality about evil. It doesn’t of our day. Our society, in fact, faces virtually the necessarily present itself in a monstrous or same temptation that Germany did: the temptation dramatic way. It can take the shape of simple to normalize certain well-scripted death operations conformity to what everyone else is doing, to what in the midst of polite society. the leadership says is right, to what the neighbors If we look within our own culture and within are doing. The gradual encroachment of evil in our own time, we will see that suction machines our lives can be something we might not even tion of his adherence to Nazism. Shutting his have replaced smokestacks, and that fertility mouth, his eyes and his ears, he built for himself clinics and women’s health centers have replaced notice because we are not paying attention; it can be something barely on the periphery of our the illusion of not knowing, hence not being an the barbed wire. Unborn humans and embryonic accomplice to the things taking place in front of his children are now dispatched with the same de- consciousness. The majority of those who collaborated with door.” sensitized ease as camp inhabitants once were, and Martin Luther King Jr. used to say that what ne’er a word is mentioned in respectable society. some of history’s most terrible crimes and false- hoods need not be cast as inhuman monsters; pained him the most was the silence of the good. Our great universities, which need to serve as a Albert Einstein, who fled Germany when Hitler moral voice, remain mute or even foster such evil, instead, they were often like us. They were capable came to power, articulated the same sentiment in as does the press, and few dare mention the pall of of giving and receiving sympathy and love; they an interview for Time Magazine on Dec. 23, 1940. death that quietly permeates the air. could have beautiful feelings and noble ideals; heroism, loyalty, family and culture could all co- He stressed that sometimes it was only the Church exist with almost unbelievable evil. and religion that could challenge the status quo as evil made inroads into a society: There is a certain banality During the Nazi years, there often were no momentous decisions to be made for or against evil. “Being a lover of freedom, when the revolution about evil. It doesn’t People were concerned with their daily affairs, and came in Germany I looked for the universities to necessarily present itself in a on that level, Nazism seemed good: it seemed to defend it, knowing that they had always boasted of bring prosperity, it made things work, it allowed their devotion to the cause of truth; but no, the monstrous or dramatic way. It people to feel good about themselves and their universities immediately were silenced. Then I can take the shape of simple country. The moral issues — the ones that we looked to the great editors of the newspapers, conformity to what everyone now see as having been central — were carefully whose flaming editorials in days gone by had pro- avoided. claimed their love of freedom. But they, like the else is doing, to what the When the full horror of Nazism was revealed at universities, were silenced in a few short weeks. leadership says is right, to the end of the war, the German people responded, Only the Church stood squarely across the path of “We didn’t know.” When a local townsperson was Hitler’s campaign for suppressing truth. I had what the neighbors are doing. asked whether he knew what was going on in the never any special interest in the Church before, camp, he gave a more complete answer. “Yes, we but now I feel a great affection and admiration We need look no further than the planned knew something was up, but we didn’t talk about because the Church alone has had the courage and parenthood clinics which are dotted across our it, we didn’t want to know too much.” Primo Levi, a persistence to stand for intellectual truth and country. Future generations are likely to be writer and a survivor of Auschwitz, described the moral freedom.” appalled by the statistics: nearly 2 million deaths German ethical blind spot this way: The courageous, even daring question we must per year. They are sure to wonder about a people “In spite of the varied possibilities for informa- ask is, “What is our own response to the evil around that ended the lives of their own children at tion, most Germans didn’t know because they us?” the rate of one every 23 seconds through elective didn’t want to know. Because indeed, they wanted Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D., earned his abortion. They are sure to ask, “How could they?” not to know. ... Those who knew did not talk; those doctorate in neuroscience from Yale and did post- and “Did they know?” who did not know did not ask questions; those who doctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest of the We need look no further than the fertility did ask questions received no answers. In this way diocese of Fall River, Mass., and serves as the Director clinics present in every major American city. the typical German citizen won and defended his of Education at The National Catholic Bioethics Future generations are sure to be scandalized ignorance, which seemed to him sufficient justifica- Center in Philadelphia. See www.ncbcenter.org SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:57 AM Page 5

August 26, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 5 Retrouvaille: A Lifeline for Troubled Marriages By Larry and Janette Feist divorced before finding this program. extended: a phone call when one of us information, please call 918-695-7010 These couples gave us hope that we is going to be late, a compliment when or go to www.helpourmarriage.com Our marriage of more than 40 could one day be where they were in one does something to please the Larry and Janette Feist live in years was on the rocks, and with feel- their relationships. other. Wakita, northwest of Enid near the ings of anger, despair, disappointment It was obvious that they were in We make “prayer together” a Kansas line. They attend Wakita’s St. and many other unpleasant emotions, loving relationships. They looked at major part of our lives and now say “I Mary’s Assumption Parish in the our words and actions “told on us.” each other when speaking and love you” to each other. We have Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Our children were very concerned touched or held hands. This was some- learned more about each other and and began offering help. A brochure thing we each wanted for ourselves. ourselves and about how to manage that our daughter obtained at the In our marriage, communication conflict. church she and her family attended had deteriorated into shouting This program hasn’t “fixed” all of Help for Marriage in Oklahoma City started the ball matches, with one or both of us the things that were wrong in our Do you feel alone? Are you rolling. clamming up or running away. The marriage. What Retrouvaille has done frustrated or angry with each In a telephone conversation, she new tools we were handed allowed us is given us hope and the tools to build other? Do you argue ... or have you told us what she had learned about to communicate once again without a loving and lasting relationship. just stopped talking to each other? this program, which the brochure resorting to that. Our marriage is healthier now Does talking about it only make it described as a lifeline for troubled Learning to use listening, forgive- because of the courage and strength worse? Retrouvaille (pronounced marriages. A lifeline was what we ness and the dialogue process, we we’ve received. We believe in this retro-vi with a long i) helps needed, and we decided that we owed began healing our marriage. No one program and are committed to it. couples through difficult times in it to ourselves and our children and ever asked about what sort of troubles Once a month we make the trip that their marriage. This program has grandchildren to give our marriage we had that brought us to the takes three hours one way from our helped thousands of couples who a chance by participating in this program. We were so relieved that home to attend meetings of a support are experiencing difficulties in program. everything was confidential. Our first group called C.O.R.E. This stands their marriage, even those already Last September, as we went names were all the others knew. for Continuing Our Retrouvaille separated or divorced. For through the weekend phase and the We began talking to each other in Experience. confidential information about or post-weekend sessions, couples who a loving way, and each of us started Being with our new friends to register for the fall program were not strangers to conflict, anger, listening to the other. sharing fellowship, stories, ideas and beginning with a weekend on pain and guilt shared stories of their There were other positive giving and receiving support is a part Sept. 14-16, call Randy or struggles and how they had been able changes. After many years of tardi- of our lives as we all continue to build Stephanie at (918) 695-7010 or to put the past behind them and ness to all sorts of events, which often on what we have already received visit the Web site at www.help rediscover loving relationships. resulted in conflict, we started arriv- from Retrouvaille. ourmarriage.com. Their stories were powerful. Some ing on time or a bit early. If you or someone you know is in had separated, and some had even And common courtesies were a troubled marriage and want more ‘For Your Marriage’ Web Site Offers Resources for Couples of All Faiths WASHINGTON — Putting a and varied audience and is part of a tion, communication and financial versatility and accessibility to enable modern image on traditional values, larger campaign which includes tele- concerns is posted throughout the the Internet to be a medium for the U.S. Catholic bishops recently vision public service messages which Web site. Topics such as intimacy and evangelization and education. launched a Web site designed to can be viewed on the site. In just one parenting also are featured. Visitors The For Your Marriage Web site is promote healthy marriages. The Web month, the site has received nearly also can view stories and advice from part of a multi-year National Pastoral site, which is located on the Internet 500,000 hits with the average visitor married couples. Initiative for Marriage. The simple at www.foryourmarriage.org, can aid viewing six to 12 pages. “The Internet has become a exhortation to do something for your couples of all faiths. With everything The site offers daily marriage tips crucial means for evangelizing, espe- marriage is the practical advice from daily marriage tips to statistics that suggest simple ways to cultivate cially among younger people,” said promoted by the Web site and the on divorce and cohabitation, this site a healthy marriage. A link on the Archbishop Joseph Kurtz, chairman entire campaign. is an up-to-date resource. home page also gives couples a tool to of the bishops Marriage and Family The For Your Marriage Web site The For Your Marriage Web site find Catholic marriage information Life Committee. “We hope youth espe- and the TV and radio spots are includes resources for everyone, in- locally. A monthly marriage quiz can cially will find inspiration and hope at funded by the U.S. Bishops Catholic cluding engaged and married couples, serve as a conversation starter on the stroke of a key.” Communication Campaign, which and facts about Catholic marriage. sensitive issues. The contemporary design of the collects money in parishes nationwide The Web site is designed for a wide Information on conflict resolu- For Your Marriage Web site has to support church media efforts. Two Adorers Celebrate 60 Years as Professed Religious In July, two was born in Spearville, Kan. Her 60 Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska and Okarche (1966-1969) and Corpus women religious who years of ministry have focused on various schools in Wichita. She also Christi School (1969-1970) and have ministered in education, with her first 23 years served as Director of Temporary McGuinness High School (1971-1973) the Oklahoma City spent in classrooms in Kansas, Professed Sisters for in Oklahoma City. She served as the Archdiocese, Sisters Nebraska and Oklahoma. In the three years at the Dean of Women at the then Sacred Elizabeth Ann Oklahoma City Archdiocese, she Wichita Center. Heart College in Wichita. In 1973 she Schmidt and Beata taught at Corpus Christi (1969-1971), Sister Beata began working in Topeka at the Weiss, celebrated 60 assisted teachers at Christ the King Weiss was born in Human Development Office as an years as Adorers of in 1988, and was a special education Offerle, Kan. She inter-community team member and Sister Elizabeth the Blood of Christ teacher at Elmhurst School (1989- taught in several then as a peace and justice field Ann Schmidt at the Wichita 1990). After obtaining a master’s schools in Kansas, representative. After completing her Center in Wichita. in educationally handicapped, her Colorado and CPE, she ministered for 17 years at They had made their first profession educational ministries shifted to Oklahoma. These St. John Hospital in Springfield, Ill. of vows on July 1, 1947. tutoring, assistant teacher and Sister Beata included Holy Both are currently Living Mission Sister Elizabeth Ann Schmidt special needs students in Oklahoma, Weiss Trinity School in in Later Life at the Wichita Center. SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:57 AM Page 6

6 Sooner Catholic ● August 26, 2007 The Catholic Coronado Club Fosters Sixty Years of Marriage By Eileen Dugan he had gotten his parents’ permission The Sooner Catholic to enlist. OKLAHOMA CITY — Tinker Air “I was a senior in high school when Force Base and the naval base in I started going,” Perkins said. “My Norman were just two of the many U.S. mother was a sponsor, one of the military bases located in and around chaperones. There were rules you had Oklahoma City during World War II. to follow: one rule was that you could To help Catholic military men never leave with one of the guys.” stationed in the area meet local, This rule, plus the fact that there Catholic girls, the Coronado Club was were chaperones on the premises, put started. It was a Catholic club that most Catholic girls parents’ minds to resembled a USO. rest. Most of these parents viewed the “Catholic military men from out of Coronado Club as a safe place for their state would go to the Coronado Club in Catholic daughters. Oklahoma City. It gave them a home “Approximately 100 people base,” Betty Perkins said. She had been attended regularly,” Perkins said. “A lot Members and friends of the “47 Club” include Paul Forgue one of the pretty, Catholic, teenage girls of people met, and eventually married, and Betty Jane Forgue, Rita McCormick, Lee Perkins, Betty who attended the Coronado Club back someone they met at the Coronado Perkins, Bob Eufinger, Jane Coleman, Terri Henfling, Harold then. Club.” Henfling, John Porter and Grace Porter. Photo/Courtesy “The Coronado Club was a Catholic Perkins was one of them. Betty met Center on July Forgue and John and Grace Porter. Club for single Catholics which met her future husband, Lee Perkins, at the “Our four daughters and two sons- down at the old Knights of Columbus Coronado Club. Paul and Betty Forgue 26, 2007, the in-law were there: Carol Dill, Joan and Hall in downtown Oklahoma City,” she and John and Grace Porter also met exact date of Mel Benson, Kitty Perkins and Patty said. “A person became a member just their mates there. In fact, all three their anniversary. A dinner celebration and Steve Eickleman. Four of our five by signing up.” couples were married in the same year, catered by Olive Garden took place at grandchildren and one great grand- Most members of the Coronado 1947. So all three are celebrating their the Church of the Epiphany in daughter attended, as did my two Club were Catholic; a few non- 60th wedding anniversaries this year. Oklahoma City on July 21. sisters, Rita McCormick and Jane Catholics sometimes attended. The Betty and Lee Perkins commemo- “We celebrated with family and a Coleman, and my brother, Bob girls had to be 18. The boys had to be in rated theirs in July. A special Mass in few close friends we have known for Eufinger. We all had a wonderful time,” the military. Most boys were, at least, the couple’s honor was celebrated by 60 years,” Lee Perkins said. Four of Betty Perkins added. 18, but a 17-year-old boy could get in if Father Cletus M. Bash at the Pastoral those friends were Paul and Betty Father Uhen Leads Prayers for Peru During Oklahoma Visit By Steve Gust opportunity to meet some of the people For the Sooner Catholic who have made a difference in the lives EDMOND — This month’s deadly of his parishioners. Many from St. earthquake in Peru sent figurative John’s, who have been to Peru for shock waves as far away as Oklahoma. medical and other missions, were at Perhaps nobody is more aware of the a weekend dinner at the Edmond pain than Father Joe Uhen, who was in Knights of Columbus activity center. Edmond shortly after the tragedy. “This is such a beautiful thing to be Father Uhen grew up here, attend- with the people who have traveled to ing Christ the King and Bishop Peru and the people who haven’t been McGuinness before answering God’s there, but still help with their support call. That call eventually led him 14 and prayers. It’s wonderful.” years ago to serve Christ and 30,000 To know more about the mission Catholics in Piura, Peru. His parish, work in Peru, call St. John’s at (405) Santisimo Sacramento (Blessed Sacra- 340-0691. ment) is about 750 miles north of the quake-affected area of Pisco. The Aug. 15 disaster claimed, by one count, more than 540 lives. Prayers were sought for Peru Above, Father Joe Uhen celebrates a marriage at his parish in Peru, while at left he oversees a construction site. victims by Father Uhen at St. John the Sooner Catholic File Photos Baptist Catholic Church in Edmond. St. John’s, along with Christ the King “Right now we’re still trying to would only and St. Monica’s, have been strong absorb what has happened and what make sense supporters of Father Uhen’s work. For we can do.” they would be years they have sent food and clothing What is clear is that many of the in Mass and financial help to his parish. Father victims were killed while celebrating worshipping.” Uhen departed Peru for Oklahoma the Mass at the 300-year-old San Clemente Father day after the earthquake. Annually he church in Pisco. Uhen, a travels to Oklahoma to visit with his “This really speaks to who the devoted and sister parishes. Peruvian people are,” Father Uhen inspired “I’m sure many of my parishioners said. “They are all such a Catholic and servant, also have family members affected,” he said. devout people. It’s what they do best. It welcomed the SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:57 AM Page 7

August 26, 2007 Sooner Catholic 7 Celebration of Life King: Abortion Leads to Jump Annual Birth Choice Event Set in Murder Rate for Oct. 7 in Downtown Oklahoma City ATLANTA, Aug. 15, Christian Newswire — Dr. Alveda King, In conjunction with Respect Life School Essay Contest” which is open Pastoral Associate of Priests for Sunday, the 15th “Annual Celebration to all students in grades 9-12 in Life and the niece of Rev. Martin of Life!” will be held once again at the private schools in Oklahoma. The Luther King Jr., today reacted to the Myriad Gardens on Sunday, Oct. 7. grand prize is a $1,000 tuition release of new Department of Justice Located between Reno and Sheridan scholarship. Award presentations will crime statistics showing African and Hudson and Robinson in down- be held that afternoon. Once again, Americans to be the victims of town Oklahoma City, parking on there will be musical entertainment nearly half of the murders commit- Sunday is never a problem. This and free food and drinks. “The ted in 2005. marks the 12th year the event has Celebration of Life!” is always an “That 49 percent of all been held at the gardens. Come show afternoon of fun and camaraderie Americans murdered are black is your support for life and see just how with other pro-life people. shocking,” said Dr. King. “That 93 beautiful the gardens are! The 15th Annual Celebration of percent of those people are victims of black-on-black crime is not really Everyone receives free balloons to Life is made possible in part by surprising. The abortion industry carry in the one-mile walk through generous donations of the following sound program, and prenatal assess- has told African Americans for Bricktown, which will once again sponsors: Culligan Water Condition- ment program in Edmond, along with decades that killing our own be led by a contingent from the ing, Edmond Mansions, Grace Living Rose Home, a Birth Choice shelter children is beneficial, even thera- ever-faithful, pro-life Knights of Centers, KIMRAY INC., St. John the for homeless pregnant women. All peutic. We bought their lies and life Columbus. Upon returning from the Baptist Catholic Church, Curtis E. services are provided at no charge. in the inner city has become cheap.” LIFEWalk, there will be a free moon Harris, MD, JD, MS, Ken and Karen The 2007 annual budget for Birth “You want another shocking bounce and big slide, along with Kenworthy, St. James Catholic Choice is $449,737. It takes about statistic?” asked Dr. King. “Black clowns, face painting and hair decora- Church, Best Companies Inc., Dr. and $37,478 to provide for the Lord’s women are now three times more tion in the Children’s Activity Court. Mrs. Thomas Murray and Dr. and ministry at Birth Choice. The more likely to abort than white women. The “Fearless Factor Follies” for teen Mrs. J. Michael Steffen. Please walkers, the more income generated Yes, 8,000 African Americans were youth group competition continues remember these sponsors in your to help moms and babies. If 200 murdered by guns and knives in for the third year in a row, and prayers and with your patronage. walkers raise $100 each, that equals 2005, but hundreds of thousands includes “Big Hair,” “Amoebae Race,” The annual event is one of the $20,000, 400 walkers equals $40,000 more were terminated by more “Musical Carpet Squares” and two main fundraisers for Birth Choice. and so forth. socially acceptable weapons. We hula hoop contests. A new event has The Celebration of Life helps provide Be sure to mark Oct. 7 on your have sown the wind of death in been added for this year’s celebration. funding for Birth Choice centers in calendar today and join in the fun! abortion clinics and reaped the Birth Choice instituted “The Dr. Paul Bethany, Edmond, Norman and south For more information, call Jan O’Neill whirlwind of violence in our streets.” Kaldahl Memorial Scholarship High Oklahoma City, including the ultra- at 606-8426. “The killing has to stop,” declared Dr. King. “If we are to restore our communities and our Annual Golf Tourney Supports McGuinness families, respect for individuals has OKLAHOMA CITY — The 2007 to begin when their lives begin, in Clancy’s All Sports Tee-Off Golf Classic the womb.” was held Aug. 3 at Silverhorn Golf Club. The 116 players were greeted by the Fighting Irish athletes and coaches. Players enjoyed a four-man scramble Catholic with a shotgun start, a luncheon in their honor and an awards ceremony. Radio The winning team of the Champion- ship Flight with a score of 54 included NOW 5 times a week! Blake Naifeh, Pete Penner, Jason Davey and Billy Garrett. In second place shoot- ing a 56 was the team of Jerry Williams, Brad Dolejsi, Bryan Wade and Ryan Lundquist. Third place was awarded to the team of Rick Ruffin, Rick Brezny, Chris Wilson and Cam McLain. Other contest winners: Closest to the pin — Ron Brown, parent of alumni Matt Brown and Lauren Brown. Brown also has a Top: McGuinness Where: KTLR 890 AM McGuinness sophomore, Andrew. Principal David Morton Longest drive — Ben Thomas, a and the first-place When: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Bishop McGuinness senior and current winners: Blake Naifeh, Monday thru Friday member of the Irish golf team. Pete Penner and Jason Support Oklahoma The tournament was a great success Davey. Not pictured, Billy through the generosity of our sponsors, Garrett. At left: Irish Catholic Broadcasting Inc. players and volunteers. Proceeds benefit athletes await the arrival okcatholicbroadcasting.com the Irish athletic programs. of players for the Clancy’s Classic. SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:57 AM Page 8

8 Sooner Catholic ● August 26, 2007 Catholic Women Develop Recipe for Bible Study By Dee A. Nash speaker who lectured each week, further explaining For The Sooner Catholic the text and encouraging personal application. EDMOND — Twelve years ago, three women A search committee set out to find a Bible study that met their criteria. That’s when they hit their from St. John the Baptist Catholic Church were first roadblock. members of Bible Study Fellowship (BSF), an inter- None existed. denominational Bible study, held at a local Baptist Leadership settled upon a liturgical study, church. Although they loved BSF’s format, they Living the Good News, because it included a soon noticed differences between what they believed children’s study that followed along with what their as Catholics and what was being taught. Kacee Van mothers were learning. Horn felt the differences open into chasms during “It was wonderful studying the readings that we the study of the Gospel of Matthew. Matthew 16:18 would hear the following Sunday at Mass, and it described Peter as the rock upon whom Jesus certainly brought much to the celebration of the would build his church, a passage Catholics believe Mass,” said Van Horn. denotes papal authority. The search committee also found a speaker, “There were two pages of commentary conclud- JoAnn Forgue, who provided insight into personal ing that Christ meant Peter’s faith, not the man,” application of biblical text, but she left after the first said Van Horn. “This directly contradicted the year. teaching of the Catholic Church, not to mention “While we were originally determined to have a being highly unlikely due to the grammatical woman, we found in our midst a wonderful speaker, structure of the text.” who happened to be male. Dr. Harry Kocurek, a Concerned, she looked around at the other pastoral associate at our parish, has been our participants. “I noticed a lot of other Catholic speaker since the second year, and we are truly women at BSF. It made me wonder if our parish blessed to have him,” said Van Horn. church was ‘missing the boat’ in not providing Bible From those humble beginnings, CBS has study.” operated continually ever since. Leaders and She expressed her concerns to her friends. They participants have changed, but the group has agreed to meet and discover whether they could always stayed true to its mission: to provide a start a Bible study in their own parish. Then they challenging Bible study while remaining flexible to Karen Cherry studies Scripture. contacted their priest. changing membership needs. “I wrote a letter to (the late) Father Petuskey “Our study is a little more involved to maintain structure of the program remains the same. Group asking him why, we as Catholic women, had to go and motivate participants who have been involved leaders attend their own small group discussion to outside our own church for an in-depth, comprehen- for years and yet, is welcoming to newcomers,” said clarify information prior to the general membership sive Bible study with practical applications to Kocurek. meeting. Once participants arrive, there is an open- everyday life,” said Diane DeHekker.“He phoned me After the first two years, participants wanted ing prayer and song. Afterward, they break up into immediately and promised support from the parish to do a book study. When leadership couldn’t discussion groups of eight to 12 women. Each group if I could get a group together to organize the study.” find satisfactory materials, they again formed a is facilitated by two leaders. After 30 minutes, Deacon Bill Bawden helped the group create a committee of three who co-wrote and self-published members reassemble to listen to lecture. mission statement and strategy. They formed a studies on the Gospels of John and Matthew, the Participants especially enjoy the luncheons held planning committee and named their group Acts of the Apostles and Paul’s letters to the prior to Advent, Lent and on the last day of classes. Catholic Bible Study for Women (CBS.) Romans and Galatians. Kocurek was part of that CBS facilitators provide a soup luncheon during “We wanted something as good as BSF, but group, and if asked to do it again, he would. Advent, a catered luncheon for Fat Tuesday, and the Catholic,” said Cher Casso, who helped facilitate “Yes, because I enjoy writing, but one really participants themselves bring salads on the final CBS for five years. needs to take a year to write a study on most books. day of classes. Throughout the year, facilitators The group had specific, if lofty, goals. They Isaiah and Revelation would probably require two watch group members looking for natural leaders to wanted a study that would provide four major years.” help guide future discussion groups and to teach the criteria: Fortunately, studies abound in comparison to children’s program. * Address a historical/cultural context, Catholic those first lean years. CBS considers the Little Rock “CBS is recognized for its leadership and week- doctrine and apologetics; Scripture Study a good solid series and Loyola Press ly receives special ministerial requests for different * Children’s has several studies for adults and teens. Dr. Scott types of assistance — financial, leadership, program for ages Hahn, professor of theology and scripture at resources, and as volunteers. It is definitely a 3 years and Franciscan University of Steubenville, has also can-do group of movers and shakers,” Kocurek said. older, plus a written studies on various topics, often focusing on He notes that other studies have grown out of nursery for apologetics. CBS. “For the first time since I have been here, younger “The challenge is to know the participants’ three other groups are studying the Psalms, so I am children; learning styles and desired level of depth, along referring to this as the ‘Year of the Psalms’ at St. * Questions with length of time for the study,” said Korcurek. John’s.” to be answered For parishes considering beginning a Bible Other fruits were born of CBS’s endeavors. in writing prior study, Kocurek suggests they plan ahead, taking at “It prepared Catholic women to build up their to meetings, least six months to a year to prepare to launch a sense of community,” said Casso. followed by brand new program. After choosing a study, it must “I made and kept friends that I’ll have for life,” small group be adapted to a calendar format, remembering to said Van Horn. “We’ve helped each other through discussion led by schedule realistically around conflicts. CBS runs births and death and everything in between.” knowledgeable concurrently with the Catholic school year, begin- She then stressed that the final thing for a facilitators that ning after Labor Day and adjourning at Thanks- successful study is the most important. guided discus- giving for the holidays. It resumes in January and “Prayer! We must always remember that these sions rather continues until mid-May. Varying the format of the endeavors are God’s and God’s alone. We are only than providing classes with prayer, group discussion, lecture and His tools, and we should never forget to constantly answers; and music keep participants interested. ask for His guidance and grace to accomplish His Dr. Harry Kocurek * A dynamic Although CBS’s format is always evolving, the work.” SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:57 AM Page 9

August 26, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 9 Father Gerrer’s Works Featured in Special Exhibit By April Wilkerson tions that were buying art, and if a campus. Pollei said it wasn’t unusual Shawnee News-Star painting wasn’t signed, he could figure for Gerrer to be there when people SHAWNEE — He could have out who it was or, if attributed to some- visited, which allowed them to learn become one of the most famous artists one, if it was accurate.” from him directly. of his time, or amassed wealth through Gerrer also was well known among “He was very easygoing,” said his multi-faceted artistic skills. Catholics for his large portrait of Pope Pollei, who has read Gerrer’s memoirs. But Father Gregory Gerrer’s heart Pius X. The original painting still “He loved to talk about the artifacts was always in Shawnee, and his love of hangs in the Mabee-Gerrer’s galleries, and tell stories about his travels. He art was always destined to benefit and a copy is in the Vatican. Pollei said was a natural teacher.” Oklahoma. Gerrer, the namesake and the painting was on display at the Jim Holden of Oklahoma City, who founder of the Mabee-Gerrer Museum World’s Fair in Chicago in 1905 before is a great-nephew to Gerrer, was about of Art in Shawnee, was both artist and coming to Shawnee. Gerrer had wanted 10 years old when Gerrer died. He collector, educator and lifelong learner. to paint the official portrait of the next knew him as “Uncle Rob” and knew His passion for art left a legacy in pope, Pius XI, but because portraiture that when his family pointed their car Shawnee, and a new exhibit sheds a bit took some time and planning, their toward the “building with the four more light on the man who started it schedules could never be coordinated. towers,” they were in for a fun time. all. However, he was commissioned to paint “We did a lot of things together; he “If God Guides Me Rightly: The Art at least 79 portraits during his lifetime. was part of our family,” Holden said. and Life of Father Gregory Gerrer, The exhibit also showcases “He dressed me up in that suit of O.S.B.,” is an exhibit of Gerrer’s own Gerrer’s diverse eye for collecting armor. He was quite a comedian. works, artifacts he collected and items objects, which numbered at least 6,400 “I remember very clearly being 5 or from cultures around the world, from 10 years old and asking my parents that provide insight into how he Father Gregory Gerrer thought and lived. His artwork is the time of the Egyptians into the 20th when we were going to see Uncle Rob. always on display at the museum, but 1907, and he made trips to the Holy century. Items on display range from a That struck me as interesting because this special exhibit is a way of honoring Land, Africa, across Europe (before and Roman terra cotta oil lamp, to a to go see a 75- to 80-year-old man, he Gerrer during the centennial year of after World War I) and throughout the Persian vase from 1200 AD, to post- was fun to be with, obviously.” the state he loved. United States. Each trip not only cards Gerrer sent from his world Gerrer was a great-uncle to Sister “We wanted to not just show his furthered his painting career but travels. There’s also his 1903 passport, Phyllis Braniff, who grew up in Tulsa paintings, but this time, let people provided opportunities to add to his granted by the U.S. Embassy in Rome. and now is a sister of Notre Dame de know about his life and interests, and collection. The large paper, featuring calligraphic Namur at Trinity University in give people a feel for how remarkable “He kept improving as an artist writing, describes Gerrer: full forehead, Washington, D.C. She remembers he was,” said Dane Pollei, director of because of all his studies and trips to grayish blue eyes, straight nose, firm, family visits from her “Uncle Rob,” the Mabee-Gerrer Museum. “Since this Europe,” Pollei said. “In that day and prominent chin, ruddy complexion and as well as going to see his elaborate is the state’s centennial, and Father age, the first part of the 20th century, spare face. collection, where she was fascinated by Gerrer is in the Oklahoma Hall of people traveled by trains and boats. For As inquisitive and artistic as “Minnie” the mummy, a mummified cat Fame, we thought this was the time for the most part, people would be lucky to Gerrer was, he deeply believed in art as and shrunken heads. a special exhibit. Father Gerrer is one take one trip during their lives.” education and inspiration, Pollei said. “He had a marvelous sense of of the more noteworthy people to come Gerrer’s artistic skills are evident He could have become wealthy because humor. I don’t remember him having from Shawnee.” in the oil paintings on display, which of his art skills, but the money he anything but a shock of white hair,” Gerrer was born July 23, 1867, in show his classical training and use of earned was really the abbey’s, and Braniff said. “On the few occasions we France as Robert Francis Xavier light. He worked in Realism and leaned Gerrer was intent on putting his art came to Shawnee, it was always a great Gerrer, and in 1872, he emigrated with a bit toward Impressionism, Pollei said, collection before the public. thrill to go. He had more darn stuff his family to the United States to but his Italian tutelage was never in “He created this collection as an than you could ever want to imagine, escape German troops. In 1892, Robert doubt. educational resource, and there wasn’t and it was always fascinating. Gerrer received the Benedictine habit “He was a very well-known artist. anything like it in Oklahoma at the “And I remember he would sit and was given the name Gregory. In He was never an avant-garde artist time,” Pollei said. “That’s what is me on his lap and tell me stories. He addition to his musical talents, Gerrer because he didn’t like modern art. He unique about our museum. Most started out by saying, ‘Once upon a pursued his artistic skills and interests was very much trained in the classical museums start with not much of a time, when a pig was a swine, and the through the monastic community. He Italian of the 20th century,” Pollei said. collection, or somebody’s personal turkey chewed tobacco ’til the spit took art lessons, traveled to Europe to “It was all about technique and skill collection amassed for their home, but rolled down his chin...’” study art, collected pieces and taught and was very traditional. everything Father Gerrer collected was “If God Guides Me Rightly: The Art art at Notre Dame. “He also was in demand for art done so it could teach people some- and Life of Father Gregory Gerrer, By the time of his death in 1946, restoration and authentication. In the thing.” O.S.B.,” continues through Sept. 30. On Gerrer had traveled the world exten- early 20th century, he probably was one Before the Mabee-Gerrer Museum Sept. 14, a leading Egyptologist will sively. He helped establish the landing of the three best art restorers in North was opened in 1979, Gerrer’s collection speak. place of Columbus in the Caribbean in America. He consulted with corpora- was on display for a time in Benedictine Hall, the large building on (reprinted with permission)

Take me out to the ball game ... Catholic youth from Saint John the Baptist Church in Edmond attended a recent Red Hawks baseball game with Carmelite Sisters in celebration of the 90th anniversary of the Carmelite ministry in Oklahoma. Sister Barbara Joseph Foley tossed out the first pitch. She said her throw was a mixture of fastball and curve ball. Photo/Courtesy SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:58 AM Page 10

10 Sooner Catholic ● August 26, 2007 Emmaus Days 2007 Emmaus Days, a retreat for young men in high school who want to learn about the call to the priesthood and explore their relation- ship with God, was held in early August. This was the seventh year for Emmaus Days, sponsored by the Vocations Office. A total of 26 young men from the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City attended the three-day retreat, held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Youth Camp. The young men who attended the retreat represented 16 different parishes. They spent time listening to priests and semi- narians share their faith journey and also enjoyed outdoor activities and small group discussions. This retreat gave these young men an opportunity to experience Christ in a retreat-type experience so they can be open to his invitation to follow him. If you would like to learn more about the priesthood, please visit our Web site www.archdioceseokc.org or contact Father Lowell Stieferman, vocations director, at (405) 721-9351.

A time out was taken to go out on one of the ponds in the camp canoes.

Top: Father Bill Novak and Father Ed Weisenburger play four square during the retreat weekend. At right: Ice breakers were used to help the young men learn who everyone was.

Emmaus Days retreat participants Andy Adams, Ian Angeles, Josh Berntsen, Timothy Black, Peter Caporale, Teddy Caporale, Willie Dan, Jimmy Dan, Connor Ferguson, Jonathan Gardocki, Ray Giroux, Adam Hartley, Korwen Hill, Daniel Ibarra, Ben Milam, Jacob Miller, Josh Ninnemann, Martin Orozco, Jerod Ortega, Danny Phan, Bret Pierce, Justin Rodriguez, Rhomas Swart, Hoang Tran, David Whitmarsh and Max Yardley with Father Lowell Stieferman, Father Ed Weisenburger and Father Bill Novak. SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:58 AM Page 11

August 26, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 11 Journey with Christ 2007 Come, Journey With Christ, Catch retreat participant made her own Your Dream! This invitation called 18 dream catcher as a memento of the young women and 10 Sisters from the weekend. Lots of good food, swimming Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and the and quiet time made for an informa- Diocese of Tulsa to meet for a weekend tional, fun and prayerful weekend. in early August at Our Lady of Held on the first weekend in August Guadalupe Youth Camp to explore the each year, Journey With Christ 2008 call to religious life. Throughout the will be held Aug. 1-3. Catholic young weekend, the Sisters shared their own women between the ages of 15 and 20 vocation stories, reflected upon the who want to learn more about the call themes of call and friendship, and to religious life and to consider their shared the varied ways of prayer which own vocation are invited to save the they experience in community. Each date and join us in 2008. Clockwise, Katelyn Baker, Sophia Kolb, Danielle Baber and Alcia Blaschke.

Sister Ruth Miriam Iey, OCD, suggests questions for journaling and reflection for the weekend.

Sister Melisa Letts, OSB, helping Heidi Rivera make her dream catcher.

Retreat-goers listen to a Sister’s vocation story. Right: All the retreat participants with the Sisters and Father Dan Letourneau. SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:58 AM Page 12

12 Sooner Catholic ● August 26, 2007 Community Garden Planted by Saint Charles Parish OKLAHOMA CITY — In early July, Father Joseph Irwin, associate pastor of Saint Charles Borromeo, presided over the dedication and blessing of the Saint Charles Community Garden. Justin Sine, 17, designed and built the organic garden as an Eagle Scout project. He and members of Scout Troop 179, led by Tom McGivney, worked three weekends in April and built five raised beds. The gardens are next to the Dorothy Day Center, 4909 State Street, a food-sharing ministry of Saint Charles Parish. Anyone can sign up for garden space and plant whatever they wish, as long as it is organically grown. Gardeners may keep the produce, share it with friends and family, or donate some to the Dorothy Day Center. The Father Joseph Irwin and Justin Sine, garden has produced an abundance reading a passage from Genesis at the dedication and blessing of the Saint of tomatoes, cucumbers, basil and Charles Community Garden. peppers. Across Oklahoma Mary Evans admires tomatoes growing in the garden. Photos by Mary Sine. Furniture Donations Needed Father Augustine Mundackatt V.C. in OKC Catholic law faculty and staff will host a wine and OKLAHOMA CITY — The Refugee Resettle- OKLAHOMA CITY — Epiphany of the Lord cheese reception for lawyers and law students. The ment Department at Catholic Charities is in need Catholic Church will host Father Augustine reception will begin about 6:15 p.m. at the church. of furniture donations in good condition for several Mundackatt V.C. and the Divine Mercy Team from families who will be arriving in the next few weeks. Potta, Kerala, India, Sept. 7-9 for three days of Retreat at Turtle Creek The department helps people who have been Mass, prayers for healing and Eucharistic OKLAHOMA CITY — Equinox — the time of persecuted for religious, ethnic or political reasons Adoration. Friday services will be 6 p.m. to 8:30 equal light and dark, a time of balance — is a good in foreign lands to achieve economic and social self- p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday 2:30 time to come aside, rest awhile and reflect on your sufficiency upon arriving in the United States. p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, contact Joseph life. Sister Mary Moloney, SP, is offering a one-day Needed items include twin-sized bed frames and Mathews at 324-6869 or Carolyn Ehli at 793-7664. Equinox Retreat at Turtle Rock Farm Retreat mattresses, dining room tables and chairs, dressers Center, Saturday, Sept. 29. Reflection exercises will and sofas. If you have such items to give away, Saint Peter Claver Celebration Set be provided and there will be time to spend out- contact Aimee Ryan at (405) 523-3002 to discuss OKLAHOMA CITY — Corpus Christi Catholic doors, with friends, yourself and your God in quiet, your donation. Church will host the statewide Saint Peter Claver prayer and sharing. Day Mass on Sunday, Sept. 9. Archbishop Beltran Contact Sister Mary Moloney at (405) 848- Volunteers Sought will celebrate the 11 a.m. Mass. Deacon Dunn 5181, [email protected]. Contact Turtle Rock OKLAHOMA CITY — Birth Choice is in need of Cumby will serve as homilist. A luncheon will Farm Retreat at (580) 725-3411 or go to www.- volunteers to help in several areas and in several follow Mass. turtlerockfarmretreat.net and click on calendar to offices. Volunteers are needed in Bethany, Edmond, The National and International Claver celebra- find the retreat application. Cost of the retreat is Norman and south Oklahoma City. A pro-life tion honors Saint Peter Claver and his ministry in $65 if registered by Sept. 15; $75 thereafter. Turtle organization helping women with unexpected caring for the slaves. The annual celebration is Rock Farm Retreat Center is located 80 miles north pregnancies since 1973, Birth Choice needs phone hosted by Oklahoma City Council No. 264. Michael of Oklahoma City, two miles off I-35. volunteers, field volunteers, clerical skills, clothing Clayton is Grand Knight and Alma Moore is Grand room, receptionists and RNs for the ultrasound Lady. Faith Community Nurse Training Set program and prenatal assessment clinic. An GUTHRIE — Registration is under way for information session will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 Red Mass “The Basic Preparation Course for Faith p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 6 at 4701 S. Western. To NORMAN — St. Thomas More University Community Nursing” to be held Oct. 28 to Nov. 4 at register and obtain more information, call Marilyn Parish will host the 28th Annual Red Mass for law Our Lady of the Lake Retreat Center in Guthrie. at 799-7195. students and lawyers on Sunday, Sept. 16 at 5 p.m. Faith Community Nurses, formerly known as at 100 E. Stinson. Father James Goins will be Parish Nurses, are registered nurses who provide Apartments Available the guest celebrant and homilist. Father Goins holistic care to members of parishes or other faith Saint Katharine Drexel Retirement Center in graduated from the University of Oklahoma, communities to facilitate optimal wellness and El Reno has apartments available for lease. A College of Law in December 2006. He was admitted thereby reclaim the healing ministry of the congre- ministry of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and to the Oklahoma Bar in April 2007. Presently, gation. The specialty is recognized by the American sponsored by the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, Father Goins is the pastor of Holy Name of Jesus Nurses Association. Saint Katharine’s offers a retirement center where Parish in Chickasha. The training registration fee is $450 and the best in life comes together … daily Mass, peace This liturgy, known as the Red Mass, continues includes all course materials, room and board and of mind, a sense of security and the services and an ancient English tradition. The Red Mass was nursing contact hours. Registered nurses interested amenities that help you enjoy the lifestyle you celebrated at the beginning of the Fall Court Term in the program may contact Faith Community deserve — all in a beautiful new Catholic retire- at Westminster. The liturgy asks God’s blessing for Nurse Curriculum Coordinator Marilyn Seiler at ment center. For information, call (405) 262-2920. those who administer law. After the Mass, the OU Catholic Charities, (405) 523-3009. SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:58 AM Page 13

August 26, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 13 Letters Thanks to You In a 1991 issue of Time Magazine, there was As McGuigan says in his column, many On behalf of the board of directors, staff, an article by Dr. James Coleman, a University of parents would like to send their children to a volunteers and most especially the women and Chicago sociologist, who did a study comparing Catholic school or to a private school, but cannot babies served by Birth Choice of Oklahoma Inc., Catholic schools to public schools. He called his afford the tuition. If the government would shift we are writing to say thank you! The 2007 study a comparative report card. I would like to our tax dollars from support for a failed public Mother’s Day Collection was the best yet! The share his findings. school system by supplementing the voucher churches of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City system of school choice, it would reduce the Student to teacher ratio, 30 to 1, for public help Birth Choice centers provide the means and tuition for parochial or private schools, then schools as compared to Catholic schools, 18 to 1. opportunity for women to choose life. Birth Choice parents would be able to send their children to get Percentage of students graduating on time was centers throughout the Archdiocese of Oklahoma a better well-rounded education. 38 percent for public schools as compared to City served 20,283 women in 2006 thanks to 99 percent for Catholic schools. Spending per School choice is not widely accepted because you. Birth Choice centers offer complimentary student for public schools was $7,107 in 1991, as of prejudice against religious schools. pregnancy testing and limited ultrasounds, pre- compared to $1,735 for Catholic schools. Using Of course, politics plays a large part in natal assessments, prenatal vitamins, maternity the percentage of cost for today’s dollars, it would contributing to the failed public education and infant clothing, diapers and formula. Thank cost 75 percent more for educating students in system. The National Education Association has you from the bottom of our hearts for your public schools as compared to the 25 percent for its own political agenda. The NEA wants to generosity, your faith and support of Birth Choice, Catholic schools. control what books can or cannot be used in and most of all, for your prayers! public schools. The books that are chosen for With love and appreciation for all you do! The government would save 75 percent of its students tend to favor the secular way of life. This On behalf of the unborn and their mothers, budget for education if it would implement a differs from the Catholic and private schools that Barbara J. Chishko, Executive Director voucher system of school choice. The critics of the offer books that give students a balance of both Ruth A. Blakley, Finance Director voucher system say that it would put an end to the spiritual as well as secular education, thereby Jan L. O’Neill, Development Director public schools as we have today. The opposite making their education far more superior to that would be true; it would only make the public offered in the public schools. A Timely Article schools better, because they would have to In regard to Patrick B. McGuigan’s article in compete in the open market of education. Public Tom Waken the Aug. 12 Sooner Catholic, I have the following schools would have to justify their existence for Saint Francis comments that will reflect on this timely article. tax dollars spent. Oklahoma City

Author Provides Biblical Basis for Primacy of the Pope The Biblical Basis for the quotes. He also addresses the issue written down. This is part of what is Papacy. John Salza. Huntington, of Protestants’ idea of Scripture Brother’s called Tradition. Ind.: Our Sunday Visitor. 223 pages. alone and their ignoring Tradition Paperback. March 2007. ISBN 978- which came before Scripture. It is Review In Chapter 9, Salza discusses 1-59276-284-2. $13.95. forgotten by non-Catholics that By Brother what “no salvation outside of the Tradition decided what would be the Benet Exton, Church” means based on various canonical Bible. In Chapter 1, Salza O.S.B. councils and popes. This chapter at discusses why St. Peter is held to be first seems out of place in this book John Salza has provided a great the first amongst the Apostles using about the papacy, but to deny the special as the leader of the visible book to show that the office of the many Scripture verses. In Chapter 2 primacy of the pope can lead a Church on earth. The Tradition of pope or the papacy has basis in the he discusses what the name “Peter” person outside of the Church. He the Church has recognized that Bible and the writings of the Fathers means and refutes those who would finishes his book with a list of the Peter’s successors in Rome starting of the Church. Salza has written this say that Jesus did not intend for the popes. There is not an index or with St. Linus up to today’s current book so that Catholics can have a Church to be built upon this “rock.” bibliography. There are footnotes. pope, Benedict XVI, held the office of discussion with non-Catholics about He addresses the various arguments primacy in the college of bishops. the primacy of the pope who is the that contradict the true meaning John Salza is the author of the The Eastern Orthodox agrees that successor of St. Peter. Salza shows Jesus had in renaming Simon, Peter. books: “Masonry Unmasked: An the successor of Peter has primacy, using Scripture verses that Jesus In Chapter 3, Salza examines the Insider Reveals the Secrets of the but disagree with Roman Catholics founded his Church on the profes- issue of what the keys to the King- Lodge” (2006) and of “The Biblical as to how this office functions. Salza sion of faith of Simon Peter when dom of Heaven means. In Chapter 4 Basis for the Catholic Faith” (2005) does not discuss the controversy Peter said that Jesus is the Christ, he shows what binding and loosing which this reviewer has reviewed. between the Roman Catholic Church the Messiah and the Son of God. means from a Scripture point of view He is the creator of an extensive and the Eastern Orthodox churches. Jesus replied that no mere man had and from Tradition. Chapter 5 Catholic apologetics site, www.- His main concern is with refuting revealed this to him, but that God discusses what “chief shepherd of ScriptureCatholic.com. Salza is a Protestant opposition to the papacy. his Father had done this. That is the Church” means. In Chapter 6, lawyer and apologist. He is a when Jesus changed Simon’s name Salza shows from the Bible that In Chapter 8, Salza quotes frequent speaker on Catholic radio, to Peter to show that he was to have Peter was acknowledged as the various Fathers of the Church from including his own daily feature on an important ministry or part in the leader of the Early Church and both the East and the West on the Relevant Radio called “Relevant salvation of the world. shows that the other apostles always topic of the pope. For those who do Answers.” This present book on the Salza begins with an introduc- recognized his primacy. not know the Church Fathers, they papacy is highly recommended to tion into what he plans to present are those who were bishops and/or those interested in the study of the to the reader. He uses the Douay- In Chapter 7, Salza examines theologians from the second to the papacy, those needing a book to Rheims Bible and the Catholic the issue of apostolic succession. All fourth century. Some of the earlier refute those opposed to the papacy, Edition of the Revised Standard the Apostles had successors which ones knew the Apostles themselves. and for those wanting to know Version Bible for the Scripture are the bishops, but Peter’s succes- They pass on the teachings of more about the biblical basis for the sors were special since he was the Apostles that were not always papacy. SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:58 AM Page 14

14 Sooner Catholic ● August 26, 2007 God Smiles When We Express Ourselves Truthfully Fear seems to be what prevents someone to take us to the store, to can happen?” So others get upset, the us from appropriately and honestly not ask for help on a project, etc. Counseling important thing is when we appro- expressing our thoughts, stating And yet we have every right to priately express ourselves, we are and/or asking for what we want ask and, yes, they have every right to Corner being true to God’s will for us and are and need, saying no and setting say no. There’s nothing wrong with By Joe Froehle, allowing the flame of our spirit to boundaries. It is sad that fear is such that, although many of us take no LPC, ICADC brightly shine. a barrier to being honest about and personally, which may be another Jesus Himself reminds us “fear true to ourselves, true to our spirits, part of the problem. not” many times in the New and true to who God wants us to be. And that brings us to the point appropriate boundaries, we acknowl- Testament. We have every right to So often we are afraid of what about our fears regarding saying no. edge where the other person ends express our thoughts, ideas, beliefs others will think of us if we appro- Many of us say yes even though we and where we begin and, in doing so, and opinions, to say no, to ask and priately and honestly express our mean no and we wish we could say we are being true to who we are. to set boundaries. No matter what thoughts, ideas, preferences and happens, God is with us. He will not no. And so often when this happens, Most of these fears have been opinions. And yet it is these expres- abandon us. He is there to protect we build up resentments toward with us since childhood when erro- sions that communicate who we are. and comfort us. He is there to re- others even though it was us who neous beliefs were formed and when We have every right to say, “I like the assure us that even if we do mess up, were unable to say no. we experienced difficult hurts, guilt liberal views on immigration,” “I he loves us. Every request can be answered and shame. Today we can admit to prefer the color yellow,” “I’d like to with a yes or a no. The problem is ourselves we are afraid, wonder And when we know we have stay home tonight,” “I believe the that many of us believe that all or where these fears originated, tell confronted and moved through the conservatives have it right when most requests should be answered in ourselves the fear is not about fear and said the right thing … we it comes to taxes,” “That rose is the affirmative and that saying no is expressing ourselves in the current can congratulate ourselves for a job beautiful,” etc. being unkind. These beliefs, often- situation, move through the fear and well done and enjoy the victory, Oftentimes fear causes us to times from childhood, may contribute assert ourselves. This can be scary. remind ourselves it will get easier, avoid expressing ourselves while to our fears. It’s kind of like Indiana Jones and know that God is smiling. covering the flame of God’s spirit Similar fears cause us to not set stepping out over the looming, dark EDITOR’S NOTE: Joe Froehle residing within our souls and our appropriate boundaries such as: “I chasm, questioning his faith that a has over 16 years experience in hearts. can’t stay on the phone when you are step really is there. marital, individual and family At other times, our fears about yelling at me,” “I need to leave if you And much of the time, we will be counseling. He serves in the inconveniencing or hurting others continue criticizing me,” “I’m going to unable to move through the fear. Counseling Center at St. John the cause us to not to ask for another cup read in the other room unless the TV That’s OK. This is about progress Baptist, Edmond. He can be reached of coffee, to not ask another to lower is turned down,” “You are standing and not perfection. But we can at (405) 359-8539 or by e-mail at the volume on the I Phone, to not ask too close to me,” etc. When we set wonder “What’s the worse thing that [email protected]. The Ripken Ethic: Baseball Could Sure Use it Now In “Men at Work,” George F. Will Anyway, this is supposed to be a per-year player forget how many outs began his celebration of baseball The column about Cal Ripken, not about there were in the inning? Or fail to defense with a tale of Cal and Bill steroids. Cal, as everyone in the state run out a ground ball? Money — lots Ripken turning a rally-killing double Catholic of Maryland calls him, was the son of of it, showered on people too young to play while their father watched from Differenc a lifelong baseball man whom Dr. Will know how to handle it — has some- the visitors dugout in Toronto — and once described thus: “Cal Ripken Sr. thing to do with this. But so does a By George concluded with an appropriately blue- smokes Lucky Strikes and drinks decline in respect for what Will called, Weigel collar ending: Schlitz beer. The Luckies are not aptly, the “craft of baseball.” “After the third out the two filtered and the Schlitz is not light. He Cal Ripken Jr. could be mulishly Ripkens ran off the field, same pace, Or at least the pious memory of is a former minor league catcher who better days. For cheating has been stubborn. Had he listened to batting arms held in the same position, fore- looks like something whittled from an coaches, his lifetime average might part of baseball from the git-go: old fungo bat...” The Luckies finally arms cocked slightly above parallel to have been 20 points higher. But no corked bats, scuffed balls, spitters. killed him, a few years ago, but long the ground, eyes straight ahead, look- matter how mired in a sometimes- Still, there was something different before, Cal Ripken Sr. had given both ing into the dugout. They ran past self-perpetuated slump he was, you about the steroid scandal, no matter of his baseball-playing sons some- their father, the third-base coach. It always sensed his respect for the how hard it may be to define that thing even greater than instruction was just another night on the factory game, his determination to live the floor for the Ripken men...” difference. Traditional baseball skull- and support: a respect for the game. duggery was both clandestine and work ethic his father had taught him, Cal Ripken’s induction into the It’s the same respect the brothers out-in-the-open: the corked bat broke and the intensity of his competitive Hall of Fame last month — along with Ripken now try to teach youngsters at and the batter was ejected; the thumb spirit. A power-hitting fielder of Tony Gwynn, the San Diego Padres their baseball academy in Aberdeen, tack or Vaseline on the brim of genius, he redefined the position of hitting machine — was a cleansing Md., a respect built on hard work, the pitcher’s hat was spotted, shortstop, but he was essentially a moment in baseball’s ongoing season sound fundamentals and the slow and he, too, got the heave-ho from throwback who exemplified the of shame. Yes, steroid use is way down development of that sixth sense called the men in blue. Crime, trial, verdict cardinal virtue of fortitude. (as is the musculature of players I “baseball smarts.” and punishment were there for all to won’t mention). But the memory of A lot of which is, alas, in short In other words — a good man, in see. cheating lingers and festers, the supply in today’s pastime. The moral as well as sporting terms. wound made worse by denial on the The steroid scandal was about corruptions of baseball in 2007 are George Weigel is a senior fellow of part of some and scurrying for the furtive injections in the dark recesses not just (or perhaps even primarily) the Ethics and Public Policy Center high grass on the part of others. of the clubhouse, and then getting chemical. How many times have you in Washington, D.C. Weigel’s column Seeing Ripken and Gwynn, two caught by urinalysis. The yuck factor seen a bunt properly laid down in is distributed by the Denver Catholic regular guys, enter the Cooperstown was higher, reflecting a sound moral recent years? Or a hit-and-run Register, the official newspaper of the aristocracy on the merits, period, was intuition about the higher gravity of smoothly executed? How often have Archdiocese of Denver. Phone: 303- a happy reminder of better days. the offense. you watched a multimillion-dollar- 715-3215. SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:58 AM Page 15

August 26, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 15 Search for Catholic Fiction Often Difficult Challenge In 1995 I interviewed five For their books, you’ll have to try Andrew Greeley book simply because Protestant publishers while covering a Catholic Catholic bookstores or go online. he couldn’t come up with anything story on trends in Protestant fiction. So, we not only have a problem in better! What is a faithful Catholic to As Protestants, we were quite proud of by Grace our definition of Catholic fiction. We do? Here’s a guideline for reading and our fiction. Bookstores carried our also have a problem finding Catholic sharing our books with others. favorite titles. They were available at By Denise fiction. In fact, at a local Borders book- Bossert Read authors like Tolkein and most libraries. Protestant fiction had store, “Joshua” and its sequel were the Waugh and remind the world that they inserted itself into the popular culture only “Catholic” books I could find on were Catholic. We have every right to and staked a solid claim on shelf space. the Christian fiction shelf — even brag about our literary giants. When I converted, I turned my stewards of Catholic faith. One would though there were hundreds of titles. think, for example, that books by Read West and Godden but don’t attention to Catholic fiction, and I They were all Protestant! hand them to a Protestant and expect immediately had a problem. What Father Andrew Greeley would not only What is going on here? Well, most explore Catholic identity (as the titles them to win converts. They simply are exactly is Catholic fiction? There was secular publishers of Catholic fiction not meant for Catholic evangelization. no clear definition. seem to suggest), but also promote do not label their books as Christian Whatever you do, don’t pass One list included literary giants fidelity to Catholic teaching. Not so. fiction. You will find their titles in around Andrew Greeley or Dan Brown like Flannery O’Connor, J.R.R. Tolkien, Father Joseph Girzone’s book the sections labeled science fiction, books. They do more damage than Evelyn Waugh and Graham Greene “Joshua” is another possibility. I read romance, adventure or mystery, but other secular fiction books with because they were writers who also this book many years before convert- never on the Christian fiction shelf. In equally offensive scenes because they happened to be Catholic. While their ing to the Catholic Church. I would call contrast, Protestant publishers have link their sordid fiction to our Church books certainly have literary acclaim, it Christian fiction, but I didn’t see hundreds of fiction titles and they do the primary goal of their fiction is not anything uniquely Catholic about the label their books as Christian fiction. and the readers (especially those out- to advance their Catholic identity — book. Finally, Catholic publishers rarely side the Church) are not equipped or although they each do this to some For Catholics who enjoy reading publish fiction. When they do market a inclined to sort out fact from fiction. degree. Their primary goal is to enter- fiction that promotes a Catholic fiction title, it is primarily marketed to As for Marcus Grodi and Michael tain the reader — which they all do identity, I suggest Morris L. West’s Catholic bookstores or by direct mail. D. O’Brien, I suggest that you read quite successfully. Indeed, they contain book “The Shoes of the Fisherman” and Before you tell yourself that none everything they write and pass their some of the best writing in British and Rumer Godden’s book “In This House of this really matters, consider this. books along to Protestants. Donate American literature. of Brede.” But don’t hand them to a The Protestant “Left Behind” series copies to your local library and ask After a quick glance over another Protestant and expect him to “get” the has sold over 65 million copies. “The your bookstore to carry them. By doing list, I realized that the compiler was Catholic faith. While these books are Late Great Planet Earth” sold over this, we will begin to stake our own defining Catholic fiction from a well-written and provide a delightful 28 million copies. According to a claim on the religion shelf, and it’s reader’s viewpoint. Many of the books reading experience about life in a Publisher’s Weekly survey, between 66 about time. weren’t even written by Catholics, nor monastery or life at the Vatican, they and 71 percent of men and women buy Editor’s Note: Denise Bossert is the were they about the Catholic faith. are not meant for evangelization. their Christian fiction books at mother of four children. She lives with They were simply good books with There are a couple of Catholic Borders or Barnes and Noble rather her husband in New Melle, Mo., where morally sound messages that Catholic fiction authors who are quite promis- than at a Christian bookstore. For she is a member of Immaculate Heart readers might appreciate. By this ing in their effort to evangelize heaven’s sake, why don’t we have of Mary Catholic Church. She writes a standard, Peter Rabbit would qualify. through fiction — Michael D. O’Brien some Catholic titles available for such monthly column for the St. Louis A third list narrowed the definition (“Father Elijah”) and Marcus Grodi readers? If you ask the average reader Review that traces her journey from of Catholic fiction to titles that high- (“How Firm a Foundation.”) The only on the street to name a Catholic fiction Protestantism to Catholicism. Her light our Catholic identity, but even problem is that you probably won’t find title, chances are he wouldn’t be able to columns will run from time to time in those authors weren’t always good them in Borders or your local library. do it or he’d name a Dan Brown or the Sooner Catholic. Cardinal: Party Platform Not Above Conscience NASHVILLE, Tenn. Zenit.org. — “This, according to me, does not “First of all, I would like to say to foster work with young people, as Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone says that respect freedom of conscience. It even the Church in the United States did Pope John Paul II. politicians should have the right to seems to me to be an oppression of has suffered deeply because of this During his address on Aug. 8, follow their conscience, even if their conscience. Where is the freedom of situation, has responded with great Cardinal Bertone spoke to the Knights views are not in accord with the stance conscience that is so proclaimed and dignity, and invites everyone to truly about the importance of laity in the of their political party. The Vatican defended in America?” commit themselves to a reversal of Church. He commented that the secretary of state said this at a press Cardinal Bertone also spoke of this situation,” the cardinal said. theme of the conference — “Faith in conference during his visit last week his phone conversation with U.S. “While I was still at the Congregation Action: Witnessing to the ‘Yes’ of Jesus to Nashville and the annual Knights Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. for the Doctrine of Faith and as the Christ” — helped laypeople to know of Columbus convention. “The telephone conversation should archbishop of Genoa, I accompanied how to live this “yes.” Cardinal Bertone was asked about really remain private,” the cardinal the Church in the U.S. through “This ‘yes’ is quite simply the ‘yes’ pro-abortion Catholic politicians, if said, “notwithstanding the fact that the period of trial and, I repeat, they of faith,” the cardinal said. “It is our they should receive Communion, and some of those conversations may be faced this trial with dignity and full, unmitigated acceptance of Jesus if the Vatican plans to give guidelines able to be tapped. The conversations courage.” as Lord and our commitment to follow to bishops for these cases. dealt primarily with the state of The 72-year-old cardinal told him as master and teacher.” “I don’t think that it is necessary Christians in the Middle East. I told journalists about his impressions of The cardinal encouraged members to repeat new norms because the her that her travels by plane, in her the Church in the United States, not- of the Knights of Columbus to foster norms are well explained in the efforts for peace, are accompanied by ing that he’d met “good bishops and teamwork in parishes between pastors doctrine of the Church,” he said. “I the angels. If they weren’t accompa- good cardinals” and also calling atten- and laity. He said, “Our integral and don’t understand how a person in nied by the angels, then she would tion to his visit to the Dominican persuasive witness to the truth of the public office or one engaged in political never be able to knit back together all Sisters of St. Cecilia, noting especially Gospel depends heavily on the ability activity can be obliged to renounce his of these relationships that have been the youthfulness of the nuns. “What do of bishops, priests, deacons, religious Catholic identity because the party, be so fragile and difficult.” you think is the average age of the and laity to work together for the it in the U.S. or in other countries, The Vatican secretary of state was Dominican Sisters I just visited? The spread of God’s kingdom by acknowl- imposes an ethical choice on the basis also asked about the scandal of sexual average is 33 years old,” the cardinal edging the distinctive role of each of the party’s program. abuse by priests. exclaimed. He encouraged the Knights vocation within the Body of Christ.” SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:58 AM Page 16 SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:59 AM Page 17 SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:59 AM Page 18

JOBS BOX

2 1/2-Year-Old Teacher V.P. of Institutional Advancement Shingi Goto, Executive Vice candidate should possess computer Villa Teresa Catholic School St. Gregory’s Univesity in President, St. Gregory’s University, proficiency, including word processing, needs a teacher for 2 1/2-year-olds. Shawnee is looking for a vice 1900 W. MacArthur, Shawnee, Okla. database management and Excel; Must have an associate degree in president of Institutional Advance- 74804, [email protected] or by organizational skills and ability to early childhood or CDA. This is a 12- ment. St. Gregory’s University was phone, (405) 878-5435. multi-task; excellent typing skills; month position. Those interested founded in 1875 by Benedictine positive communication skills and the should call Sister Veronica at 232- monks. It was originally chartered as Part-Time Bilingual Therapist ability to relate to and professionally 4286. the Catholic University of Oklahoma Catholic Charities / St. interact with staff, volunteers and the in 1916, and is a private Roman Joseph’s Counseling Center is public. Send cover letter, resume and Adjunct Faculty Catholic university founded in seeking a part time bilingual salary history to Human Resources, 1501 N. Classen Blvd., OKC 73106, or The College for Working the Benedictine tradition. The (Spanish) licensed counselor to work [email protected]. Adults at St. Gregory’s university’s educational mission 20 hours per week providing EOE University on the Shawnee campus quickly expanded, and today St. professional counseling and related has openings for adjunct faculty at Gregory’s serves a diverse population services to individuals, couples and the undergraduate and graduate of Catholics and other faiths from families. Services will be provided in Job Coaches the St. Joseph’s Counseling Center at level: General Education, Business many states and foreign countries. The Center of Family Love is Catholic Charities and at selected and Business Law, Computer We offer a number of majors across looking for job coaches. This position is parishes within the community. Science, Professional Development the spectrum including Natural best described as a mentor for our Please submit a cover letter and and Psychology. A master’s degree is Science, Social Science, Arts, community-based clients, helping resume to Human Resources, required, preference for candidates Business and Theology. As a them to get to their jobs as well as Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese with experience teaching adults. Catholic university, St. Gregory’s helping them to understand what of Oklahoma City, 1501 N. Classen Candidates must be supportive of does not avoid the difficult questions their employer needs and expects from Blvd., OKC 73106, or nlargent@- and willing to contribute to the of our day, but rather prepares them. Competitive wages, training and catholiccharitiesok.org. Catholic and Benedictine identity students to confront these questions a paid time-off program. For more of the university. Send a cover creatively and objectively while information, call John Isenegger at the letter, vita and transcripts to striving for their destiny with faith Director of Family Support Center of Family Love, (405) 263-4658 [email protected] or mail to Dr. and hope. St. Gregory’s University in Catholic Charities has an or fax your resume to (405) 263-4563. Denise Short, Associate Dean, St. Shawnee, Oklahoma’s Benedictine, opening for a licensed clinical social Gregory’s University, 1900 W. Catholic university, invites worker interested in creating service Care Givers Sought MacArthur, Shawnee, Okla. 74804. nominations and applications for the responses to the poor and vulnerable. position of vice president of Successful candidates should The Center of Family Love is Institutional Advancement. The vice looking for a house leader (HTS) to Campus Minister demonstrate the ability to supervise president reports directly to the case managers and student interns. help assisted living clients with daily St. Gregory’s University in president and will be responsible living chores. This would include meal Shawnee is looking for a campus As a mission-based organization, for the planning and direction of all prep, keeping appointments, getting to minister to oversee and implement a Catholic Charities offers an employee philanthropic initiatives for the those appointments as well as to work. comprehensive Catholic and a family friendly environment that is university. The vice president will The Center of Family Love also has Benedictine campus ministry rich in opportunities for personal and plan and lead all advancement initia- several openings for Direct Care program, coordinate student-led professional growth. Benefits include tives to capitalize on the university’s Technicians (DCT). These openings retreat ministry as an outreach to paid health, life, dental and long- success story, engage a broad range are at both the ICF M/R and the area parishes and high schools, term disability insurance. Employees of constituents and grow the endow- Loosen Center. We pay well and have coordinate student liturgies and work a 37.5 hour week and enjoy ment. The vice president will work a significant shift differential. student liturgical ministries and generous paid leave. Send cover closely with staff, senior administra- Competitive wages, training and a assist in the planning of campus- letter, resume and salary history to tors and board members to identify paid time-off program. For more wide liturgies, provide catechetical Human Resources, 1501 N. Classen short- and long-term priorities for information, call John Isenegger at the and faith formation activities such Blvd., OKC 73106, or nlargent@- fund-raising and manage a portfolio Center of Family Love, (405) 263-4658 as Bible study, Lectio Divina, catholiccharitiesok.org. EOE of major gift prospects. The or fax your resume to (405) 263-4563. discussions on Catholic social teach- university is currently in the silent ing, small faith groups, etc., develop Accountant phase of a major capital campaign. service and mission opportunities for Catholic Charities seeks an Coordinator, Case Management students and maintain a pastoral The successful candidate will accountant. Successful candidate Catholic Charities seeks a presence among students, faculty and possess the ability to embrace and should possess a bachelor’s degree in licensed social worker with a clinical staff. Master’s degree in Theology or communicate St. Gregory’s unique accounting or a related field; 1-plus specialty to supervise the case Pastoral Ministry is preferred. attributes and mission while leading years experience, preferably in a non- management staff in our Family Bachelor’s degree and experience in a broad advancement program and profit setting; computer proficiency, HOPE and Transitional Housing youth/young adult ministry will be enhancing the existing relationships including Excel, Word and Outlook; programs. This position supervises considered. Mature understanding of with constituents across the country. organizational skills and the ability direct services to clients. Works with the Catholic faith tradition and A master’s degree is required. It to multi-task; excellent analytical all programs to develop respectful ability to communicate the tradition is strongly preferred that this skills; positive communication skills relationships with persons served creatively and pastorally to young individual be a practicing Catholic and the ability to relate to and while helping the clients gain skills adults. Practicing Catholic in good with knowledge of Benedictine professionally interact with staff, and confidence that will empower standing. Good communication and spirituality. Salary and benefits are volunteers and the public. Send cover them to solve their own problems. social skills are essential Willing- commensurate with experience. letter, resume and salary history to Catholic Charities is an equal ness to work as part of a collabora- Electronic applications are Human Resources, 1501 N. Classen opportunity employer offering tive ministry environment. Willing- preferred, and should include a cover Blvd., OKC, 73106, or nlargent competitive benefits and a supportive ness to work some evenings and letter and resume. Review of @catholiccharitiesok.org. EOE work environment with opportunities weekends. Instrumental music applications will begin immediately to grow and develop professionally and ability (especially guitar or keyboard) and continue until the position has Administrative Assistant personally. Send cover letter, resume is desirable. Completion of been filled. Nominations, expressions Catholic Charities seeks a and salary history to Human Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Safe of interest or requests for the bilingual administrative assistant Resources, 1501 N. Classen Blvd., Environment training program and complete position specifications may for a position in the St. Joseph’s OKC 73106. or nlargent@catholic- requirements. be sent directly to the university: Mr. Counseling Office. Successful charitiesok.org. 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Calendar Page 19 Devotion and the practice of conse- 14 Bingo Night at St. Joseph’s AUGUST SEPTEMBER crating the family and home to the Church in Norman. Light supper Sacred Heart of Jesus will find served at 6:30 p.m. Games begin at 7 materials available after Mass. For p.m. with a first session; second 26 2007 Sunday Twilight 1 McGuinness Softball Festival more information, call the Office of session at 8:30 p.m. $5 per session, no Concerts at Mount St. Mary (SW Family Life at (405) 721-8944 or limit on blackout cards, group photo of 28th and Shartel) with the band 2 St. Joseph Old Cathedral Parish Diane Grim at (405) 528-6252. all the winners. Powerhouz – R&B/Jazz, from 6:30 to Carnival, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. There will 8:30 p.m. The concert is free. Bring be food, music and games. All are 7 Battle of the Bishops. Bishop 16 Third Annual Young Adult lawn chairs, blankets and picnics. welcome. McGuinness home football game vs. Mass and Dinner with Archbishop Please, no pets or glass containers. Bishop Kelley, kickoff at 7:30 p.m. Beltran at the Catholic Pastoral 4 Mount Saint Mary home Center. For more information, contact 26 Saint Patrick Parish Third volleyball game vs. Santa Fe South, 7-9 Father Augustine Mundackatt Becky at (405) 721-9220 or (405) 721- Annual Carnival from 11 a.m. to 8 varsity, 6 p.m. V.C. will be at Epiphany of the Lord 5651 Ext. 115 or email Bjaime@- p.m. Saint Patrick’s is located at Catholic Church for three days of catharchdioceseokc.org. 2121 N. Portland, OKC. 4 Eucharistic Adoration at the Mass, prayers for healing and Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration. Friday services 16 Red Mass. St. Thomas More Help, NW 32nd and Western, every 27 Bishop McGuinness home will be 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturday University Parish will host the 28th Tuesday from 8:30 a.m. to noon. The softball game vs. Northeast, varsity, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday 2:30 Annual Red Mass for law students rosary is said every weekday at 2.30 4 p.m. p.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, and lawyers at 5 p.m. at 100 E. p.m. All are welcome. contact Joseph Mathews at 324-6869 Stinson. The liturgy asks God’s 28 Bishop McGuinness home or Carolyn Ehli at 793-7664. blessing for those who administer law. 7 Holy Family Home Mass, 11:30 softball game vs. Kingfisher, After the Mass will be a wine and a.m., Holy Family Home, 6821 Eddie varsity, 4:30 p.m. 8 The Benedictine Oblates of Red cheese reception for lawyers and law Drive, Midwest City, (405) 523-3000. Plains Monastery will meet from students. 28 Mount Saint Mary home 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. They join the 7 First Friday Adoration at St. volleyball game vs. Choctaw, Community for Vespers, followed by a Francis of Assisi in Oklahoma City. 16 Taize Prayer, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. varsity, 6 p.m. potluck dinner. For more information, After the 8:30 a.m. Rosary School Red Plains Monastery, 728 Richland contact Sister Eunice at 373-4565 or Mass there will be the Exposition of Road SW, Piedmont. For more details, [email protected]. 30 Bishop McGuinness home the Blessed Sacrament and call 373-4565. Optional video on Taize softball game vs. U.S. Grant, Benediction at 5:30 p.m. This is open prayer at 6 p.m. varsity, 4 p.m. to all. St. Francis is located at 1910 9 St. Peter Claver Celebration. NW 19th, (two blocks east of Penn) in Corpus Christi Catholic Church will 16 The Community of the Secular 30 Bishop McGuinness home Oklahoma City. host the statewide Saint Peter Claver Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary volleyball game vs. Booker T. Day Mass. Archbishop Beltran will of Mt. Carmel and St. Teresa of Washington, varsity, 6 p.m. 7 First Friday Adoration at Holy celebrate the 11 a.m. Mass, a lunch Jesus — Oklahoma Community and Name of Jesus in Chickasha. will follow Mass. Province of St. Therese meets at St. 31 Mount Saint Mary High Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Joseph Carmelite Monastery in School will be hosting its annual from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. followed by 10 Mount Saint Mary home Piedmont from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. For Alumni Tailgate on the MSM Benediction. This is open to all. Holy volleyball game vs. Bethany, varsity, more information, call Janet Mildfelt campus before our football season Name of Jesus is located at 210 S. 7th 6 p.m. at (405) 848-6275 or Deacon Jim opener against Crooked Oak. The St. in Chickasha. Breazile at (405) 377-9478. tailgate begins at 6:30 with alumni of 14 Mount Saint Mary home The Mount eating for free. Please 7 First Friday Sacred Heart Mass football game vs. Crescent, kickoff at 17-25 Monthly Novena to the come join us for food, fun and fellow- at the Catholic Pastoral Center. 7:30 p.m. Infant Jesus, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, ship before kickoff at 7:30. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament Nat’l Shrine of the Infant Jesus, Saint is at 5:30 p.m. with the Sacrament of 14 Bishop McGuinness home Wenceslaus Church, SH-99 7 miles N. 31 Bishop McGuinness home Reconciliation available prior to Mass. football game vs. Millwood, kickoff I-40 or 20 miles S. I-44 at Stroud exit, football game vs. Kingfisher, Mass is at 7 p.m. Those wanting to at 7:30 p.m. Prague, (405) 567-3080. kickoff at 7:30 p.m. learn more about First Friday

Speaker Addresses Life Issues Sooner Catholic on World Wide Web Mary Lou Bates, adjunct professor at Southern Nazarene University You can now read the entire Sooner Catholic newspaper on the Internet. and a true advocate for elders, recently visited Saint Ann Retirement Center Just go to the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Web site at www.catharch- to speak to the residents on the topic of Harvesting Your Life and Reaping dioceseokc.org and then click on Sooner Catholic. It’s that easy. the Blessings from Life Experience. She said that harvesting shows us You’ll even find past issues of the Sooner Catholic. Just click on the that we have made a difference in the world. We sense that our lives have button that says “Past Web Issues” and entire issues starting with the April meaning; that we have contributed to others; and that we are worthwhile 15 Sooner Catholic will be at your fingertips. This will allow readers to look human beings. Bates said that as we age, changes occur. Many times we face up articles that have been published in previous issues of the archdiocesan widowhood. Our self-worth is questioned. It is not a question of how old we newspaper. are, but how we are old. It is not chronological, it is a state of mind. The We hope you enjoy reading your arch- challenge is to become elders, not elderly. diocesan newspaper on the Internet and Bates challenged us to use five categories of activity that can find it a convenient way to keep up with significantly boost the power, clarity and subtlety of our brain and mind. what’s going on in your local Catholic community. You will still receive the Sooner 1. Exercise mentally. Catholic through the mail twice a month, 2. Exercise physically. but now you will have another way to access 3. Pick challenging leisure activities. the Sooner Catholic. 4. Achieve mastery in accomplishing mental fitness. 5. Establish strong social networks. SC for Aug 26.qxd 9/5/2007 11:59 AM Page 20

Celebration Little Flower Offers Prayers, Celebration For Centro Guadalupano More than 1,000 members of Little Flower Church turned out Aug. 12 for the blessing and dedication of the new Centro Guadalupano center. Archbishop Beltran led the blessing, assisted by Father Jenaro de la Cruz, pastor of the predominately Hispanic parish located at 1125 S. Walker in Oklahoma City. Archbishop Beltran congratulated the Little Flower parishioners for their deep faith and commitment in making this project possible. Many obstacles and delays were overcome in making the $2 million center a reality. Following the blessing ceremony, a parish dinner and dance were held to celebrate God’s blessings on the Little Flower Parish and the completion of the long-awaited Centro Guadalupano. Photos/Mauro Yanez and Rex Hogan

The new Centro Guadalupano.

Archbishop Beltran blesses the new building with Father Jenaro de la Cruz following. A woman and little girl are all smiles as the celebration unfolds.

Little Flower parishioners packed the church for the blessing and celebration.