West Texas PERMIT NO. 44 SAN ANGELO, TX NONPROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID US POSTAGE Animated John Paul ANGELUSANGELUS New cartoon, documentary Serving the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas recount Pope John Paul II’s Volume XXVII, No. 11 NOVEMBER 2006 life, teachings/See Page 7. Pope canonizes 4, says being a saint not for the weak By Cindy Wooden four new saints: Mexican Bishop Rafael Catholic News Service ! Learn more about these four Guizar Valencia of Vera Cruz; Italian

PO BOX 1829 BOX PO new saints. Graphic/Pg. 7 Father Filippo Smaldone; Italian Sister

VATICAN CITY — Presiding over the who, responding with joy and generosity Rosa Venerini; and Mother Theodore

DIOCESE OF SAN ANGELO SAN OF DIOCESE ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED SERVICE ADDRESS SAN ANGELO ANGELO TX SAN 76902-1829 second canonization ceremony of his to the call of Christ, leaves everything to Guerin, foundress of the Sisters of pontificate, Pope Benedict XVI honored follow him,” the pope said at the Oct. 15 Providence of St. Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind. two women and two men who demon- canonization Mass in St. Peter’s Square. Even in the midst of “trials and perse- strated that becoming a saint is not for Political persecution, poverty, suspicion cutions,” the pope said, the new saints the weak and fearful. and even opposition from church leaders knew that following Jesus “truly guaran- “The saint is that man, that woman were not uncommon in the lives of the teed a happy existence and eternal life.” Masses to bring St. Joseph celebrates 125 years Reconciliation Year to a close Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer will trav- Love thy neighbor el throughout the Diocese of San Caring residents of the Big Bend Angelo in November to officially bring area pour their hearts into helping to a close the Year of Reconciliation, a Mexican border town/Pgs. 8-10 year that has asked Roman Catholics in West Texas to focus on God's mercy. Pfeifer names deans for Pfeifer's schedule will take him to: At top left, a paint- ! St. Vincent Palotti, Abilene, Nov. 9 ing of the St. diocese’s deaneries ! Sacred Heart Cathedral, San Joseph Mission in Bishop Michael Pfeifer Angelo, Nov. 20 Stanton by artist ! John Griffin sits in announced November 1 deans for Midland's St. Stephen's, Nov. 21. the foreground as the diocese’s three deaneries in All three Masses will begin at 6:30 over 300 people cel- Abilene, Midland-Odessa and San p.m. and will be celebrated bilingually. ebrate St. Joseph’s Angelo. "During this year, I have encouraged 125th birthday Mass Fr. Tom Barley was named to all people, especially as a family, to take November 5. Above, succeed Fr. Hugh Wade as dean of advantage of the many opportunities to a statue remains in receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation the mission. Near the San Angelo deanery. left, Amarillo Bishop Returning deans include Rev. and Penance," Pfeifer said. "Reconciliation brings the faithful God's John Yunta, with Bernard Gully (Midland-Odessa) mercy and pardon so that we can be Bishop Michael and Msgr. Fred Nawarskas reconciled to our God and to one Pfeifer, at the cele- bration. Bottom left, (Abilene). another." Nawarskas is pastor at Abilene’s light shines through Holy Family and Gully is pastor at a window in the St. ! For more on the Joseph Mission. Far Our Lady of Lourdes in Andrews. Year of Reconciliation, left, the faithful pray. Barley is pastor in Mereta and Wall see Bishop Pfeifer’s column below and also serves as the diocesan seminarian director. Wade served as dean for several years. From the Bishop’s Desk INSIDE ... Sharing God’s mercy, honoring our merciful King Diocesan Briefs ...... 2 From the Editor ...... 2 By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI Mercy is at the heart of reconciliation Fr. Thad on Bioethics...... 5 At the heart of reconciliation and forgiveness is God’s Diocesan Dates ...... 6 With the feast of Christ the King on November 26, 2006, mercy and love. During this Year of Reconciliation Love Thy Neighbor ...... 8-10 we bring closure to the wonderful Year of Reconciliation through our preaching, teaching and liturgical celebrations, Family ...... 12 of the Diocese of San Angelo which began with the First we have given special emphasis to opening our hearts to Just for Kids...... 13 Sunday of Advent in December, 2005. As we close this receive God’s forgiveness, healing and mercy as we seek Coming of Age ...... 13 Year which focused on reconciliation, healing and mercy, to be reconciled with our God, with our neighbor and our- The Back Page ...... 16 we “confidently approach the throne of grace to receive selves. A special focus has been given mercy and to find grace for timely help” from Christ our merciful and compassionate King. [Heb.4:16] (Please See BISHOP/3) Bishop Pfeifer Page 2 NOVEMBER 2006 The Angelus The West Texas From the Editor Angelus Official Newspaper of the Outrage is not dead, it’s alive and kicking Diocese of San Angelo, Texas By Jimmy Patterson n't matter the party affiliation. and understanding but find our expressions of POSTMASTER: Send all address Illinois Senator Barack Obama, who faith sowing division; we believe ourselves to changes to: ercifully, blissfully, the campaign- many say will run for President in 2008, be a tolerant people even as racial, religious WEST TEXAS ANGELUS ing is over. No more hate. No has nailed it. He has identified our problem and cultural tensions roil the landscape. And P.O. Box 1829 Mmore name calling. No more and offered a solution in the same sentence instead of resolving these tensions or mediat- SAN ANGELO, TX 76902-1829 charges of racism. No more – something we don’t get much of today. ing these conflicts, our politics fans them, ______images of Rush Limbaugh In his just-released book, “The Audacity exploits them, and drives us further apart.” mocking Michael J. Fox. of Hope,” the aspiring young politician Regardless Obama’s politics, he makes Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI No more John Kerry says we are where we are because of our important points that cannot be denied: we Publisher “botching a joke” and all of lack of empathy. We are no longer able to are a country at war with one another. America descending on identify with others who are not like us. Summing us up, Obama seems to be saying: Jimmy Patterson him like vultures on a Obama asserts that until we are able to If you don’t agree with me, then you and your simply step in another’s shoes, just for a opinion are not worth my time or trouble. Director of Communications decaying carcass. No more gay prostitutes or evangel- couple of minutes even, and see how the Don’t look for it to go away in our life- Editor Patterson ists issuing denials. No poor, the under-educated, the people living times. The Rush Limbaughs, the Sean more, no more, no more. in drug infested neighborhoods feel, we Hannitys, the Bill O’Reillys, the Air Kenneth Grimm Well, at least for another year and a half will never be able to govern equally for all. Americas, Al Frankens, network newscasts, San Angelo Standard Times when it’s time to search for the next presi- And he makes other meaningful points 24-hour news cycles, Jon Stewarts and Production Manager dent. that don’t reflect political views, but mat- Stephen Colberts have together become a What a shame that we have come to this. ters of simple common decency, something billion-dollar cottage industry. Member William Bennett wrote a book a few we are now largely void of. There is far too much money being made Catholic News Service years ago called “The Death of Outrage.” “What’s troubling is the gap between the in divisiveness to turn back now. Outrage is Catholic Press Association But outrage is not dead. Outrage is all the magnitude of our challenges and the small- not dead. Outrage is alive and quite healthy. Texas Catholic News rage. Just look at our politicians in cam- ness of our politics,” Barack writes. “The Instead, what’s dead is the respect we paign mode. ease with which we are distracted by the once had for one another and our ability to Published the first Monday following And what are we teaching our children petty and trivial, our chronic avoidance of respect one another even if we have a dif- the first Saturday of each month and through all of this? That we can bad mouth tough decisions, our seeming inability to ferent point of view. delivered to all registered parishioners whomever opposes us, make them look fool- build a working consensus to tackle any I wonder then, if this is not going away in the Diocese of San Angelo. ish, tawdry and despicable, all for personal big problem.” – and it’s not – how do we teach our chil- gain in the name of bettering our country? And ... dren about respect when it simply ceases Subscription rate for all others: Outrage is at an alltime high and it does- “We think of faith as a source of comfort to exist entirely? $10 per year DIOCESAN BRIEFS Retirement Fund Thanks THIRD CLASS POSTAGE PAID AT SAN ANGELO, TEXAS Sanderson Centennial Greetings from San Angelo! St. James Catholic Church of Sanderson, Diocesan Festival I am writing to express my profound grati- TX will be having a Centennial Celebration Printed by the Calendar tude to you for your contributions to the 2005 December 9 -- “100 Years of Existence, San Angelo Standard Times Retirement Fund for Religious. Your generosi- 100 Years of Blessings.” NOVEMBER 12 ty is astounding and deeply appreciated by A Scripps-Howard Company 10 am - Open House and Exhibits ROWENA -- St. Joseph’s our retired women and men religious and by 11 am – Parade "HOLIDAY IN YOUR HEART" has all of us who are also working untiringly to Submissions: Noon -- Lunch and Entertainment with been chosen for the theme. A deli- care for those who have gone before us. The monetary range of our Diocesan giving was Story suggestions, calendar items, Mariachis cious meal of turkey, dressing & 3 p.m. – Mass German sausage will begin at 11 a.m. from $20,000 (1989) to $61,000 (2001) until parish briefs and all other Plates for adults will be $7 Childrens this past December when your gift to the frail, submissions should be emailed to 4:30 pm -- Reception followed by giving of elderly religious was $68,000. To each of you I awards and speeches by community leaders plates $3. A drive thru plates to go line [email protected]. will be available for $7 each. Childrens offer a sincere "thank you" for your consistent 9 pm - Dance support of this annual collection. COPY, PHOTO DEADLINE: games, bingo, country store and an auction will be going on through out With that said, you also need to be aware that Third Friday of every month. Veteran’s Memorial the day. A sausage sandwich supper more than 37,000 Catholic religious are now Veterans who were members of St. will be served at 4:30 p.m. over 70 years of age. Of these 11,000 require Photos should be sent in jpeg format. Joseph Parish while serving in the Armed either skilled nursing care or assisted living Forces are invited to place their names on which in 2005 alone cost almost $500,000,000. see 2,007 Catholic youth groups register and These types of care in the U.S. typically cost Letters to the editor are welcome, and the monument. Cost is $75 per name. participate in Souper Bowl of Caring 2007.” $169. per day but religious have kept the cost at Contact Billy Rollwitz at 325-442-3141; should be emailed to In 2006, 1,245 Catholic youth groups $133. per day. Additionally, the average Social Andrew Lange at 325-442-3391 or Maynard Security benefit for religious is approximately [email protected]. raised over $1 million in the Souper Bowl of Schwertner at 325-442-4771. If you know of Caring for charities that help people who one-third that paid to the average U.S. benefici- Letters to the editor are printed at the any deceased veterans who would qualify ary. are hungry. In Texas, Catholic churches On December 9-10 you will have the oppor- discretion of the editor and identities of to be on the monument, please notify one raised over $90,000 through Souper Bowl the writer are subject to of these contacts. tunity to participate in the 2006 Retirement of Caring 2006. To be counted in the nation- Fund for Religious annual appeal in this verification. Please include name, al totals each group must register their par- Diocese of San Angelo, Texas. Please support address and phone number when sub- Catholic Goal set for 2007 ticipation at www.souperbowl.org. and this collection as generously as you have in mitting letters. Souper Bowl of Caring report following the event. the past. Know that many of the retired reli- “The Souper Bowl of Caring teaches gious spend hours each day in front of the Over 1,200 Catholic youth groups have Blessed Sacrament offering prayers of grati- already registered to participate in the young people the joy that comes from serv- ing others and concretizes Catholic social tude for those who "Share in Their Care." February 4, 2007 Souper Bowl of Caring. On behalf of all the religious men and “We’re asking Catholic youth to ‘Stir it Up,’” teaching,” said McCarty, women are being addressed through this col- said Bob McCarty executive director, The Souper Bowl of Caring has set a lection, I also thank you sincerely. National Federation of Catholic Youth nationwide goal of $8 million for 2007. ago. Ministry (NFCYM), referring to the Souper Churches can register to participate at – SIster Marie Malachy, San Angelo Bowl of Caring 2007 theme. “Our goal is to www.souperbowl.org. The Angelus NOVEMBER 2006 Page 3

BISHOP: Celebrate by AIDS pandemic calls for shared responsibility By Bishop Michael Pfeifer the continent of Africa has suf- The principle of Human fered the most from this terrible Dignity rests on the conviction pledging yourself as Over the last 20 years, more disease. Faced with human suf- that each person is uniquely cre- than 22 million people have died fering on such a massive scale, ated in the image and likeness of from AIDS. The United Nations governments, international agen- God. The principle of common agent of God’s mercy predicts that without a drastic cies, the private sector and the good reminds us that in our change in treatment and preven- Church must come together in a world we are joined more close- tion efforts, 68 million more peo- spirit of concern and shared ly together by communications (From 1) ple will die from AIDS over the responsibility to stem the deadly and technology, and our notion next two decades.. tide of the pandemic. of the common good encom- to the celebration of God’s mercy in the Sacrament of Penance and Ground Zero for this pandem- Compassion is the quality and passes more than our local com- Reconciliation. Because our God loves us, because our God is indeed rich ic is sub-Saharan Africa, where attitude that we must bring to munity—it embraces the entire in mercy, our God always wants to forgive and pardon us, and to bring us 83 percent of AIDS deaths and the service that we offer our sis- world. into a deeper spirit of reconciliation with our God, with one another, and 71 percent of H.I.V. infections ters and brothers who suffer The principle of justice reminds ourselves. And, as our God pours out mercy upon us, then our God have occurred. Five thousand from this terrible affliction. Our us that we must treat one another invites us to show mercy, love and forgiveness toward our neighbor. people die every day from the common responsibility to work with fairness and equity, giving to “Should you not have shown mercy on your fellow servant as I had disease in Africa. together to confront this pan- others what they are entitled to as mercy on you?” This we should strive to do every day, every month and While the AIDS pandemic is demic flows from the principles human beings. Today those suf- year of our lives, and not just during the special Year of Reconciliation. worldwide and is one of the of human dignity, the common fering from AIDS are among the The best way to celebrate the fruits of our special Year of major killers in our own country, good and justice. most vulnerable. Reconciliation is to pledge ourselves to be agents of God’s mercy and reconciliation for others as we constantly open our hearts to receive God’s mercy and forgiveness in our own lives. el escritorio del obispo Jesus Christ is our merciful King It is most appropriate that we end the Year of Reconciliation on the Compartiendo el amor de dios honrando feast of Christ the King because Christ, as our King, is constantly ask- ing God the Father to show us mercy and forgiveness though the power of the Holy Spirit. And, our merciful King who is always willing to a Cristo nuestro rey misericordioso forgive us, is constantly inviting us to show mercy toward one another. por el Obispo Miguel Pfeifer nosotros mismos. Se le ha dado Reconciliación con la fiesta de Hence, it is appropriate that we end the Year of Reconciliation focusing un enfoque especial a la cele- Cristo Rey porque Cristo, como on the theme of “Sharing God’s Mercy as we honor Christ our King”. Con la Fiesta de Cristo Rey el 26 bración de la misericordia divina nuestro Rey, está constantemente In Ch. 25 of Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus Christ our King tells his disci- de Noviembre de 2005, termi- en el Sacramento de la Penitencia pidiendo a Dios Padre que nos ples one of his most powerful parables about how the nations of the namos el maravilloso Año de la y la Reconciliación. Porque nue- muestre su misericordia y perdón world—all people and each one of us individually—will be judged on Reconciliación stro Dios nos ama, porque nuestro por medio del Espíritu Santo. Y the last day. Basically we are told in that challenging Gospel that we de la Diócesis Dios es verdaderamente rico en la nuestro Rey misericordioso siem- will be judged according to the way that we showed mercy and kind- de San Angelo misericordia, nuestro Dios siempre pre está dispuesto a perdonarnos, y ness toward our sisters and brothers who are in need—the hungry and que comenzó nos quiere perdonar y enseñarnos constantemente nos invita a thirsty, the stranger, the immigrant, the imprisoned, the naked and aban- con el Primer clemencia y guiarnos a un espíritu mostrar misericordia con los doned, the sick and ill. Domingo de más profundo de reconciliación demás. Así pues, es apropiado que To be a true member of the Kingdom of Christ our King means that Adviento en con nuestro Dios, con los demás, y terminemos el Año de la we are ready and willing to open our hearts to seek the forgiveness and Diciembre de con nosotros mismos. Y, al derra- Reconciliación enfocados en el mercy of our King, and then that we are totally willing and ready to 2005. Ahora mar Dios su misericordia, sobre tema de “Compartiendo la bring God’s mercy and compassion to others as we humbly and coura- que termi- nosotros nuestro Dios nos invita a Misericordia de Dios honrando a geously strive to give ourselves in a spirit of mercy, compassion, and Pfeifer namos este mostrar misericordia, amor y Cristo nuestro Rey”. justice to promote and build up the Kingdom of Christ the King here on Año de la perdón hacia nuestros prójimos. En el capitulo 25 del evangelio this earth each day. Reconciliación que se enfocó en la “Pues tú también debiste tener de San Mateo, Jesucristo nuestro “Thy Kingdom Come” reconciliación, sanación y miseri- compasión de tu compañero, del Rey les cuenta a sus discípulos una cordia, “nos acercamos confiada- mismo modo que yo tuve com- de sus más poderosas parábolas Each time we pray the Our Father we say, “thy Kingdom come…” mente al trono de la Gracia para pasión de ti.” Debemos de sobre como las naciones del These are words that we have been repeating for 21 centuries. When recibir la misericordia y encontrar esforzarnos a hacer esto todos los mundo—todas las personas y cada we say this part of the Our Father, we are telling Jesus our merciful la Gracia de la ayuda apropiada de días, cada mes, y cada año de uno de nosotros individualmente— King, that we want our Father’s Kingdom of peace, justice and mercy Cristo, nuestro Rey misericordioso nuestras vidas, y no solamente serán juzgados en el último día. to come today, come now to our earth, especially to places where there y compasivo.” [Heb. 4:16] durante el Año especial de la Básicamente el evangelio nos dice is war, like in Iraq and Afghanistan, and where there is continued con- Reconciliación. que seremos juzgados según como flict in the land of Israel, the land of Christ’s life, death and resurrection, La Misericordia es el La mejor manera de celebrar los nosotros mostramos misericordia y and where there is tension and disturbance in our own country and in Corazón de la Reconciliación frutos de nuestro Año especial de bondad hacia nuestros hermanas y many nations of the world, and in our cities, in our parishes and our El corazón de la reconciliación y la Reconciliación es comprometer- hermanos necesitados—a los ham- families. el perdón es la misericordia y el nos a ser agentes de la misericor- brientos y sedientos, a los extran- “Thy Kingdom come...” means that we want Christ’s Kingdom of amor de Dios. Durante el Año de dia y de la reconciliación de Dios jeros, a los inmigrantes, a los justice to come to our earth and to defeat corruption, discrimination, la Reconciliación, por medio de para otros al abrir constantemente encarcelados, a los desnudos y hatred, rejection and segregation, and we pray that there will be an end nuestras predicaciones y enseñan- nuestros corazones para recibir la abandonados, y a los enfermos. to the worldwide social and economic injustices and to pervasive moral zas y celebraciones litúrgicas, misericordia y la reconciliación de Ser un verdadero miembro del degradation that is prevalent in our country and in many places on plan- hemos dado un énfasis especial a Dios en nuestras vidas. Reino de Cristo nuestro Rey sig- et earth. When we pray this phrase, “Thy Kingdom come…” we are abrir nuestros corazones para nifica que estamos listos y dis actually praying for a new spirit of love and mercy between spouses, recibir el perdón, la sanación y la Jesucristo es Nuestro Rey puestos a abrir nuestros corazones between parents and children, between the bishop and his priests, misericordia divina al buscar ser Misericordioso between pastors and the people they serve, between reconciliados con nuestro Dios, Es muy apropiado que ter- (Please See RECONCILIATION/14) con nuestro prójimo y con minemos el Año de la Mira OBISPO/11 Page 4 NOVEMBER 2006 The Angelus Bioethics: Weighing animal rights vs. human rights By Rev. Thad Pachoczyk avoid exploiting the vulnerable, wherever Chicago to hear a panel of speakers experience reminded me of how the they are encountered. encourage city council members (and the Catholic Church is uniquely poised to ometimes sincere people concerned The Catholic Church recognizes how mayor) to uphold a recently-passed ban speak across many societal strata and par- with protecting innocent human life man holds a special place in creation, on serving foie gras in Chicago restau- ticipate in many interrelated levels of eth- Swill express sentiments along these while remaining an integral part of that rants. The production of foie gras ical exchange in our culture. In my com- lines: "Animal rights creation. Made uniquely in God's image involves the repetitive forced tube-feed- ments, I stressed that the proper care and advocates are eager and likeness, he still belongs to the ani- ings of ducks and geese. These animals stewardship of animals should sensitize us to protect all kinds mal kingdom. Feet on the ground, head have a pipe inserted into their throats to not only to their weakness and vulnerabil- of animal life, but looking up to the stars, man exercises a pump large quantities of food into their ity, but also to the vulnerability of our seem to ignore the limited dominion over the world and over stomachs. This causes the animals (and brother human beings. most important ani- the remainder of creation, including the especially their livers) to balloon to many Interestingly, Cardinal Ratzinger, now mal of all, the animal kingdom. He perennially faces the times their normal size. From the Pope Benedict XVI, once addressed the human animal. They question of how to properly exercise that enlarged livers, a delicacy in the form of a subject of foie gras explicitly during an are willing to save dominion, which is not an absolute right creamy patè can then be prepared for cus- interview with a journalist: "We cannot the whales, but abort of domination over God's creation. He is tomers in upscale restaurants. As liver just do whatever we want with them. ... the humans. called to reasonably use, rather than function and other organ systems become Certainly, a sort of industrial use of crea- Protecting animals abuse, the powers he has received. compromised, the bloated animals tures, so that geese are fed in such a way can never be as impor- Pacholczyk To be precise, we should not speak of become diseased and experience consider- as to produce as large a liver as possible, tant a task as protecting young humans animal rights but of animal welfare. able suffering. I was asked to give a state- or hens live so packed together that they from abortion, embryonic stem cell Animals do not have rights in the way ment about the ethical concerns raised by become just caricatures of birds, this research or other forms of experimenta- that humans do. Animal welfare means the mistreatment and industrialization of degrading of living creatures to a com- tion." Such a viewpoint, though funda- that we recognize that animals can be these animals. Speaking alongside a modity seems to me in fact to contradict mentally correct, should not be taken to used for reasonable purposes, but should Jewish rabbi, the President of the Humane the relationship of mutuality that comes signify that animal abuse in our society is not be abused. Society, a representative from a group across in the Bible." an ethical issue that we can forget about. I was recently invited to participate in a called Farm Sanctuary, and several others, "Animals too," he stressed, "are God's Rather, concern for exercising proper press conference on a particular form of I found myself in the midst of an unusual creatures and even if they do not have the stewardship over animals ought to be a animal abuse. Rows of TV cameras gathering of people from widely different balanced part of a broader concern to assembled at city hall in downtown political and religious perspectives. The (Please See STEM/14) The ethics of stem cell research Supreme Court to By Dr. Karen Torres, Ph.D debates over ethics. Conducting this embryos are often labeled “spares” research has involved removing stem and have no hope of being implanted Few topics evoke as much heated cells from human embryos that are a or nurtured in a woman’s uterus. The hear partial-birth debate as the topic of stem cell few days old or from fetal tissue of debate is over the rights that should research. The controversy is often embryos older than eight weeks. be given to an embryo as the begin- characterized as one that pits concern Until recently, the removal of stem ning of a human life. Our duties lie in for human life against concern for cells from embryos has, without ques- how we should act toward embryos abortion debate human suffering and the life of human tion, resulted in the death of the and in deciding whether any distinc- embryos against medical cures for embryo. In light of this fact, support tion should be made between By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI adult humans. As science and technol- for embryonic stem cell research has embryos of different types and cir- ogy continue to forge into new areas, been equated to support for abortion. cumstances. On November 8, the United States Supreme Court ethical viewpoints and debates become A new technique publicized in August The resolution to any ethical issue will hear oral arguments in cases challenging the ever more present and challenging. 2006 suggests that future removal of must first honor the purpose to do no Federal partial-abortion ban. Six years ago, the The purpose of this article is to assist cells may not result in embryo death. harm. The Roman Catholic Church is U.S.Supreme Court invoked its Roe v. Wade decision readers who wish to gain a basic However, success rates of the new unified in its belief in God’s care for to strike down state laws against partial-birth abortion. understanding of the ethical issues in technique are still uncertain according all human beings. This means that Now that the high court is taking a second look at the stem cell research. to a pro-life expert of the U.S. we must prevent unjustified harm, horrendous practice of partial-birth abortion, it is a According to the National Institutes Conference of Catholic Bishops. reduce pain, and protect other human time to remind the public and our elected officials of for Health, stem cells show potential The field of ethics is discussion beings. We must honor a deeply root- what is at stake. for many types of health and medical about questions of right and wrong as ed commitment to the equality of all For the past 10 years, "partial-birth abortion" has research. These research studies may well as questions about rights and human beings as creations of God. been in the public spotlight as one of the most revolt- help scientists understand the human duties that are in conflict with one Furthermore, the Church teaches us ing medical procedures that is permitted in our country. body and the groups of specialized another. Often, an ethics question is that humans are created in the image During this period, opinion polls have consistently cells that make each of us who and formed in a familiar question, “Does and likeness of God. God intends for shown the public to favor a ban on this procedure, and what we are. Serious medical condi- the end justify the means?” In the us to love Him and grow in the image more than half the states have passed such a ban into tions, such as cancer and birth defects, debate over human embryonic stem of Him so that we continually strive law and Congress has passed such a ban three times. are believed to be caused by problems cell research, the goal of scientists to to attain likeness of Him. Doing so is Twice it was vetoed by President Clinton, but in in the development of stem cells. A end human suffering appears to be the fundamental pursuit of becoming November 2003, the ban was signed into law by better understanding of normal stem honorable and worthy. The ethical a Christian person. The Catholic President Bush. cell development could lead to cor- problem arises in the means, which is Church believes that this pursuit Partial-birth abortion is a procedure by which the rection of errors and decrease in the use of donated embryos. Some of begins at the moment of conception, baby is delivered "past the baby's navel…outside the human suffering caused by these med- these embryos are donated as a result regardless of where or how that body of the mother," or "in case of a head-first presen- ical conditions. of abortion. Some embryos are creat- moment is created. In other words, tation, the entire baby's head is outside the body of the Research on one specific type of ed in laboratories as a result of in stem cell, the human embryonic stem vitro fertilization procedures and (Please See COURT/6) cell, has produced the most heated research cloning. These lab-created (Please See ETHICS/6) The Angelus NOVEMBER 2006 Page 5 Pfeifer travels to Crane to help townspeople talk about problem with drugs Submitted by Teresa Figueroa, Good Shepherd Parish, Crane

On October 15, Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer celebrated Mass at Good Shepherd Catholic Church and afterwards had a meeting with the youth and other parishioners from Crane, McCamey, Imperial and Coyanosa, to discuss the illegal drug issues facing our Communities. During this meeting he expressed extreme concern in view of the recent arrests and the sheer numbers of those involved from this area and hoped that there were some drug pro- grams in place to help educate our youth and children about these issues as well as incentive programs that may help our youth steer clear of drug involvement. Those attending the meeting assured him that the school offered Rev. Francis Frey made a sizable contribution to St. Mary’s in Odessa through a donation of stock. many different programs such as- “Red Ribbon” week, the “D.A. R.E.” program and the “Just say No” program as well the volun- tary random drug testing for all UIL event participants. But from the standpoint of the young people in attendance they felt more It is your money, after all could be done. One young lady, a recent Crane High School gradu- ate explained that often times in Crane and other small towns, kids made over the years, perhaps your choice. This way you do By Rev. FrancIs Frey may not come into close contact with drugs or drug dealers for that 16% of your profit. Can you do not show any profit to the matter, but once they leave the security of their town, they are things differently and spend Internal Revenue Service and Now is the perfect time to exposed to all kinds of things as she herself had experienced. She your money in a more prof- you are not taxed on the profit look closely at your invest- was thankful that she had been raised with strong family values and itable manner? Now, before the you have made over the years. ments. My broker sends me a strong faith principles to know what to do and say but wasn’t sure end of the year is the time to Then your charity will send you statement each month and it what would happen to those who had not. Many high school stu- talk to your broker or your tax a thank you for the total value tells me how much I can expect dents present stated that they had been told about drugs and some advisor. of your gift. This you can use from each of my investments knew people who claimed using drugs, but they themselves had From paging through some as a tax deduction. on an annual percentage basis. never actually seen the drugs to know anything about them. of the literature I receive from A further benefit for your Is this investment that made me A parent inquired if there was a program that would allow kids to charitable organizations, now is charity is that it will be able to good money in the past still see first hand what drugs look like to give them tools of resource. A the time to make an impressive pay off some of its debt that it is making me money? Or has it police officer from McCamey explained that there are many options gift to our bishop (who is paying 7-12% interest on. lost value? Would I buy it again that could be used by the local law enforcement to educate the young aware of the needs throughout The Lord has been good to right now? Perhaps it is time to people about the different kinds of drugs, what they look like etc. the diocese) or though him to those living in our diocese. The sell it and invest in something He suggested contacting the local offices to see what was available. your local parish church com- oil field is doing good, The new. Bishop Pfeifer closed the meeting asking each place to inquire munity. rains have come. Now is the The tax man will have his about and to make plans to sponsor some form of drug education The best manner of doing right time to make a suitable eyes on what decision you program within our communities that reached the entire communi- this is to give the stock or return to the Lord for all of his make and will desire to take his ty. That way the whole community, not just school systems, would bonds directly to the charity of gifts. percentage of any profits you join the fight against the growing drug epidemic. Si no temos caridad, de nada nos sirve por el Obispo Miguel Pfeifer, OMI Lo Demás, es lo de Menos ! aunque cada año vayamos a “tomar ! si no sabemos sacrificarnos-aunque ! aunque asistamos a Misa todos los ceniza”, a visitar la Villa (la Virgen de sea un poco-por los demás y no sabemos Comparto con ustedes una reflexión domingos; Guadalupe), a que nos bendigan el perdonar y disculpar. sobre la conexión entre la santa misa—la ! aunque llevemos al cuello una medalli- primero de enero nuestras 12 velas o a ! Si no somos justos en nuestros tratos y Eucaristía—y el servicio y el amor. La ta o un escapulario; cumplir nuestras mandas..etc. (Todo lo con los que están a nuestras órdenes o con Eucaristía nos inspira, y nos da la fuerza ! aunque tengamos la casa llena de imá- cual, dicho sea de paso, no está nada mal) nuestros superiores… para vivir la misa en servicio y amor genes de santos; ! si no somos comprensivos y serviciales ! en una palabra—como dice san Pablo durante cada día de la semana, en nuestros ! aunque tengamos un altarcito a la con nuestro cónyuge, con nuestros hijos, “SI NO TENEMOS CARIDAD, DE hogares, nuestros empleos, nuestras escue- Virgen de Guadalupe en el mercado, o en con nuestros ancianos, con nuestros com- NADA NOS SIRVE”, y como cristianos, las, y en todas partes. Esta reflexión fue el cruce de las vías o en los talleres de la pañeros de trabajo, con los más necesitados “NO SOMOS NADA’. tomada del Misal Mensual, Febrero 2006. empresa; que nosotros. Page 6 NOVEMBER 2006 The Angelus DIOCESAN DATES COURT: All abortions equally Pastoral Center - Presbyteral Council Bishop’s Calendar Meeting, 2-5 p.m., Christ the King NOVEMBER Retreat Center, Christmas Party for wrong from a moral standpoint 9 -- ABILENE, St. Vincent Pallotti Priests, Sisters, Deacons and Wives (From 4) extensive findings from medical authori- - 6:30 p.m. Bilingual Mass Closing the at 5:30 p.m. ties demonstrating that there are no cir- Year of Reconciliation for the Abilene 14 -- SAN ANGELO, Baptist mother," before being killed in a manner cumstances in which the only way to pre- Deanery Memorial - Advent and Christmas so brutal and barbaric that the TV hesi- serve a woman's health is to perform a 10 -- MIDLAND, Our Lady of Mass at 11:00 a.m. tates to show it. partial-birth abortion. Guadalupe - Meet with Pastor and 15-16 DALLAS, Mass for Holy Every abortion is, of course, equally In 1997, the president of the American Pastoral and Finance Councils, 7:30 Spirit Circle wrong from the moral standpoint based Medical Association, Daniel Johnson, p.m. 16 -- SAN ANGELO, St. Joseph - on a biblical foundation. But it is psycho- MD, stated that "Our reasons for support- 11 -- ODESSA, St. Mary - Catholic Mass at 6:00 p.m. and Posadas at logically more disturbing and pedagogi- ing the bill [banning partial-birth abor- Schools Commission Meeting, 9 a.m. 7:00 p.m. cally more effective to show people what tion] are simple: partial delivery of a liv- 12-16 -- BALTIMORE, Maryland - 17 -- MERETA, Holy Family - Mass, partial-birth abortion really is. Partial- ing fetus for the purpose of killing it out- Meeting of the United States 10:45 a.m. birth abortion has perhaps more than any- side the womb is ethically offensive to Conference of Catholic Bishops 17 -- SAN ANGELO, West Texas thing else, swayed public opinion away most Americans and physicians. Our 17-19 -- LAREDO, Region X Boys Ranch Christmas Program at from abortion in general. In commenting panel could not find any identified cir- Catholic Youth Conference 4:30 p.m. on the brutal partial-birth abortion proce- cumstance in which the procedure was 20 -- SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart 18 -- EDEN, Detention Center - dure, the United States Bishops stated the only safe and effective method." - 6:30 p.m. Bilingual Mass Closing the Mass at 1:30 p.m. that this procedure "has brought our legal On November 8, the Supreme Court Year of Reconciliation for the San 18 -- SAN ANGELO, St. Joseph - system to the brink of endorsing infanti- will consider two closely-related cases on Angelo Deanery. Advent Night of Prayer at 7:00 p.m. cide." partial-birth abortion. The Court has the 21 -- MIDLAND, St. Stephen, 6:30 for Priests, Sisters, Deacons and Interestingly, legislators who identify option of either umpiring the morally p.m. Bilingual Mass Closing Year of Wives of the San Angelo Deanery themselves as "pro-choice" and vote in bankrupt legal distinctions between one Reconciliation 19 -- ABILENE, Sacred Heart - other contexts to uphold abortion rights form of brutality and another, or of 22 -- SAN ANGELO, St. Joseph - Advent Night of Prayer at 7:00 p.m. have, in large numbers, concluded that affirming the commonly-held conviction Thanksgiving Ecumenical Service, for Priests, Sisters, Deacons and partial-birth abortion goes too far. This is of all but a handful of Americans that par- 6:30 p.m. Wives of the Abilene Deanery due in large part to the fact that in this tial-birth abortion cannot be tolerated by a 23 -- SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart 20 -- SAN ANGELO, Angelo debate, for the first time, attention is nation built on the self-evident truth that Cathedral, Thanksgiving Day Mass at Catholic School - Christmas Mass at focused on what actually happens to the all are created equal, and our belief that 9 a.m. 8:30 a .m. baby during the abortion. While it is easy all children are sacred and are to be 24-26 -- Rest and Prayer 24 -- SAN ANGELO, Mass at Tom to talk about "rights, freedoms, and choic- shown compassion and love. Moreover, 29 -- BIG SPRING - Mass for Green County Jail - 9:00 a.m. and es," it is hard to talk about methods of the first right we are given is the right to inmates at Federal Prison 10:00 a.m. killing; so hard, in fact, that some of the life. 30 -- ABILENE, Sacred Heart, 24 -- SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart media refuse to describe it. The ban on partial-birth abortion is a Presentation to RCIA at 6:30 p.m. Cathedral - Christmas Vigil Mass at In view of the barbaric procedure that is pre-requisite to the ultimate restoration of Midnight involved in partial-birth abortion, protection for all unborn children, who DECEMBER 25 -- SAN ANGELO, Goodfellow Air Congress decided in passing the ban are made in the very image and likeness. 1 -- SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart Force Base - Christmas Day Mass at against this procedure in 2003, to gather Cathedral - World Aids Day Mass at 9:00 a.m. 12:00 noon 26-28 -- Rest and Prayer 2 -- SAN ANGELO, Holy Angels - ETHICS: Responsible citizens must have say Mass at 7:15 am. For ACTS Christ The King Center 10-12 -- Diaconate Training (From 4) parents may even be willing to donate their 2 -- SAN ANGELO, Santa Fe Depot spare embryos. Discussion of the morality - Tell Christmas Stories to children at Program Beginning Experience 13 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Group from the moment of conception, an embryo of in vitro fertilization is outside the scope 7 pm. is committed to the pursuit of becoming a of this article, but embryos created specifi- 3 -- SAN ANGELO - Fort Concho - 14 -- Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament human person in the likeness of God in cally for these purposes should not be Mass at 11:00 a.m. accordance with God’s will and grace. treated differently than those created by 4-6 Rest and Prayer 16-19 -- Men's Walk to Emmaus 20 -- Heart o f Mercy Prayer Group Given the previous statements, it is possi- natural processes. Furthermore, the cre- 7 -- SAN ANGELO - Shannon ble to recognize as ethical the potential for ation of embryos specifically for research Hospital - Advent and Christmas Mass 21-- Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament human healing through stem cell research, also does not warrant different treatment at 11:00 a.m. but only if the cells are obtained from from those created through natural process- 8 -- SAN ANGELO, Sacred Heart 23-26 --Thanksgiving Holiday's- Office Closed sources that honor commitment to preven- es. In both cases, to treat the embryos dif- Cathedral - Feast of the Immaculate tion of harm to human beings (for example ferently would be to treat them as a means Conception Mass at 12:00 noon 27 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Group 28 -- Adoration of the Blessed adult humans, umbilical cords, placental to an end, which violates ethical principles 8 -- SAN ANGELO, St. Margaret - blood or spontaneous miscarriages). It is taught by the Catholic church as well as Living Rosary at 7:00 p.m. Sacrament 30-31 -- CKRC ACTS Retreat not moral to support stem cell research by many secular ethicists. 9 -- SANDERSON, St. James - methods that involve the destruction of A lengthy examination of all of the 100th Anniversary Mass at 3:00 p.m. human embryos at any stage, because it is a nuances of the basic ethical issues present- 10 -- SAN ANGELO, St. Joseph - Necrology 1 -- Rev. John A. Pierce (1979) direct termination of the process of forma- ed here requires more space than has been Mass at 11:15 a.m. tion of a human person. Regardless of allotted. As science continues to explore 11 -- SAN ANGELO, Bishop's 5 -- Rev. Angel Vizcarra, O.P. (2004) whether the stage of formation is one-cell or this area, an ongoing process of discern- Residence - Christmas Party for Staff a fully-developed human being, it merits ment that remains true to honoring human at 6 p.m. 12 -- Deacon Nestor Perez (1993) 12 -- Rev. James Aaron (1999) honor and protection with dignity, not use as life and the human person will be required. 12 -- SAN ANGELO, St. Mary - Our a means to an end. As responsible American citizens, we have Lady of Guadalupe Mass at 7:00 p.m. 20 -- Rev. John Waldron (1995) 28 -- Rev. Nicholas Femenia, C.M. One argument for permitting embryonic a say in this matter, both in our personal 13 -- SAN ANGELO, First United stem cell research is that embryos that are choices and at the ballot box. Methodist Church, Advent Prayer (1999) 30 -- Rev. John Hoorman, C.PP.S. “spares” from the in vitro fertilization Dr. Karen Torres is, Assistant Professor Service, Noon; process will be destroyed anyway. Some of Management, Angelo State University. 13 -- SAN ANGELO, Diocesan (1995) The Angelus NOVEMBER 2006 Page 7 THE NATION New Saints Cartoon, documentary recount Pope Benedict XVI canonized two men and two women Oct. 15. MOTHER THEODORE GUERIN Pope John Paul II’s life, teachings French foundress of the Sisters of Providence of St. Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind. 1798-1856 feast - Oct. 3 By Cindy Wooden tures and A pioneer for Catholic education in Indiana, she and her Catholic News Service was certain companion sisters overcame harsh conditions in pursuing he knew their ministry in America. Quote: “What strength the soul draws from prayer! In the midst of a storm, how sweet is VATICAN CITY — Piccolo their names. the calm it finds in the heart of Jesus.” and Fiona, two doves who narrate The films a new cartoon about Pope John have been Paul II, are much better behaved completed in BISHOP RAFAEL GUIZAR VALENCIA Bishop of Vera Cruz, Mexico than their real-life counterparts. Spanish, 1878-1938 In a 30-minute documentary English and feast - June 6 accompanying the cartoon, Italian, Dedicated to helping the poor and sick, and a well-liked Vatican television footage shows Lopez- preacher, St. Rafael faced many obstacles during the government’s persecution of Catholics. He once offered to some real doves flying, but most Guardia said, give himself up to his oppressors in return for the freedom of the winged symbols of peace and he hopes of worship. refuse to soar away on cue, and the DVDs The cartoonist said using ani- one even perches on the head of will be on sale before Christmas. mation not only allowed him to SISTER ROSA VENERINI Pope John Paul. U.S. Archbishop John P. Foley, produce a film children would Italian foundress of the Venerini Sisters The cartoon, “John Paul II: The president of the Pontifical find interesting and informative, 1656-1728 Friend of All Humanity,” and the Council for Social but it gave him the freedom to feast - May 7 accompanying documentary, Communications, said Lopez- portray the human side of Pope She opened the first public school for girls in Italy and “John Paul II by John Paul II,” Guardia effectively used anima- John Paul, especially in his youth. dedicated her ministry to the education and formation of women. Quote: “I feel so nailed to the will of God that were presented to reporters at an tion to recount Pope John Paul’s The youthful scenes include the nothing else matters.” Oct. 17 Vatican press conference. life and teaching, and especially future pope playing soccer, skiing Spanish cartoonist J.L. Lopez- his “message of love and peace.” with his older brother, acting in Guardia, who often draws under “This is a useful tool for a fam- an amateur production, playing FATHER FILIPPO SMALDONE the name Cavin Cooper, devel- ily gathered in front of the televi- with friends and praying often. Italian founder of the Salesian Sisters of the Sacred Heart oped both projects in consultation sion to remember the life of this But the cartoon also speaks 1848-1923 with the Vatican Television great pope,” he said. about the suffering the future feast - June 4 Center. Father Lombardi said he agreed pope endured: the deaths of his His priestly ministry was dedicated to the poor in southern Jesuit Father Federico to assist Lopez-Guardia because mother, brother and father; the Italy, especially those with hearing impairments. Lombardi, director of Vatican TV, “I always thought it was impor- German invasion of Poland dur- said he tried to suggest other tant to have biographies of saints ing World War II; work in a stone names for the animated doves, adapted for children and young quarry; and studies in a clandes- but Lopez-Guardia drew the crea- people, in their own language.” tine seminary. Text and images: CNS and the Vatican ©2006 CNS PATTERSON: We are called AGE: How to find a way to pass to be loving images of God the time in slow-moving traffic (From 12) (From 13)

Since the U.S.-Mexican border closed in 2002, Mexican villagers have lost the !Play the Alphabet Game. Each person must find the letters of the alphabet in order on ability to earn a living by interacting with American tourists. They can no longer objects outside the car. The first one to get to Z wins. This game can be very difficult if the car offer $2 canoe rides to their town. They can no longer sell their walking sticks or is not moving. their handcrafted butterflies or their finely painted rocks. Restaurants in their dirt- street towns are but ghostly shells of the good times; the laughter and merriment !See how many different state license plates you can find. Extra credit for Alaska, Hawaii or but an echo. Several hours upriver, in another border town, residents can no any of the provinces of Canada. longer cross the river for the glory of wiping off dirty tables at the resort before !Recite the Pledge of Allegiance backward. wading back across the river to the shacks they call home. !My favorite game begins like this: "I was on my way to Steubenville, and in my suitcase I My father told me in 1981 he was rowed from Rio Grande Village to Boquillas packed. ..." The first item must begin with the letter A. The next person repeats the first item, then along with my mother and grandmother. The three of them took donkeys into adds a second item beginning with B, and so on. If you make a mistake, you're eliminated. If play- town. My father's ride was led by a teenage boy named Francisco. Dad sat and ers are really good, you may have to go through the alphabet a second time. drank a beer with the town's mayor. !Name every recording artist you can think of. Name at least two songs for each artist. Today, the restaurant is gone, it is believed its former owner is a meat cutter in a Kansas packing plant. Francisco, and half the town, have vanished. Those left !Tell everything you remember about kindergarten. Then tell everything you remember about are the poorest, their livelihoods, their incomes, snapped off like a twig from a first grade. If the traffic hasn't moved yet, continue all the way through middle school. dying mesquite bush. !Take turns reciting nursery rhymes. Don't repeat any. The person who remembers most wins. We are called to be loving, caring images of God even before we are called to !Braid the hair of the person next to you. Extra credit if it's a guy with a buzz cut or if you're be Americans. It is our responsibility to help others, even if it just seems a pit- driving. tance. A pittance to us is gold to a Mexican with nothing. !By the time you're done with these activities, you should have arrived at your destination. My son and I turned and walked away as the two men walked back toward And if not, let's hope that you've mastered the art of sleeping in the car. Sleeping is, after all, Mexico and the shade shelter they had fashioned out of twigs and sticks. Neither the best way to make the time pass quickly -- unless, of course, you're the one behind the of us said anything. We just smiled at each other and walked. Free to go wherever we were headed. Not worrying where our next meal would come from. wheel. Page 8 NOVEMBER 2006 The Angelus The Angelus NOVEMBER 2006 Page 9 Love they neighbor Big Bend residents give helping hand to Mexicans kept from livelihoods after border closure the people left. Hope followed close behind. Only from them,” Gallo said. “Each time I the poorest remained. Now, 4 1/2 years later, thanks would go to Boquillas, I would pick to the selfless, almost saint-like sacrifices of a small up their wire scorpions and their group of people in this wild, untamed region, the bracelets and the things that they had people of Boquillas may yet get back on their feet. made and bring them back through Editor's Note: This is the first of a two-part series Acuna and go out every night and about a group of people in the Big Bend region Terlingua. People who are themselves eager to help helping the residents of Boquillas, Mexico, since the 'It was time to do something' badger people into buying them and the artisans in the small Mexican village. U.S. closed the border. Danielle Gallo was 20 when she first heard of the then return the money from sales on people of Boquillas. Living in Marathon at the the next trip down.” ‘What is anyone doing about it?’ By Jimmy Patterson time, Gallo worked fighting wildfires as an “When I first moved to this area the border had Editor employee of the park system. She met men from The trip home just closed,” Gallo said. “We would sit in the coffee Boquillas who also were firefighters and would lis- from Boquillas shop and have coffee and we would sit in a bar ERLINGUA -- For eight months, Juanita ten to their stories of returning to their abject There is an incredible part of this over a beer and talk about what an awful thing it Luna has done nothing but quilt. Rarely poverty at the end of work shifts that kept them story that Danielle Gallo slips was and how typically bureaucratic and tragic it even leaving her house since February, away from their family for three weeks at a time. through almost unnoticed: the words, was, and one night we were sitting in a bar in she has been creating a masterpiece, She decided she could no longer just return home "... and bring them back through Marathon talking and an Englishman tourist said to binding together quarter-sized hexagonal shaped to her small, luxurious-in-comparison Marathon Acuna." us all, ‘Well, what is anyone doing about it?’ ” Tpieces into a large intricate patchwork. She started apartment and no longer do anything. It is not easy to get from Boquillas Gallo said it was sometime shortly after the “I could no longer say, ‘You go back to your dark to Acuna, but it is the only legal way man's comment that her level of involvement rose ! Part 1 (Part 2 on Page 10) holes and I'll stay here at my home and be comfort- to return to America with items made dramatically and she moved to the village to teach. able,’ ” Gallo said. “It was time to do something.” in Mexico. The closing of the border “It was a personal affront to me that someone on the quilt when the winter mornings were crisp She began by going to Boquillas and teaching the has made the goodwill of Gallo, De thousands of miles away would point their finger at and the afternoon sun showed no mercy on her and children. Her first trip was in November 2003. She Narvaez, the Conallys and others of this area and say ‘None shall pass’ after what had, her neighbors as they basted and bound seams stayed eight months, living in an old school house, this region more difficult in unimag- for so long been a place that had provided so much together. The coolness of winter gave way to the teaching, surviving, and making friends with the warm spring and then the dreaded heat of the sum- inable ways. But still, these generous peace. We were angry that this community could be people of Boquillas. But Gallo said the main point people do it. cut in half. Nobody was going to tell me I couldn't mer. From sun up until sundown, Juanita Luna and of her stay was to assess the needs of residents. She many of the other women of Boquillas did nothing “I leave my house and I drive go have a burrito with my neighbors. I was deeply but quilt. From first light. Until darkness fell at returned to America and took up with a former about 45 minutes to the river,” said insulted that this miserable trickle that we call the day's end. Every day. river guide named Cynta de Narvaez. Together they De Narvaez, who has recently taken Rio Grande would suddenly become a barbed-wire Quilting. Crafting walking sticks. Painting rocks. shared a house in Terlingua. over the trips to Boquillas to pick up fence between the people we loved so much.” Scraping together food. Surviving. There's not De Narvaez was just as aware of the plight of the the handcrafted items, which now The National Park employees and the people who much else to do in Boquillas, Mexico, a tiny, dusty villagers as Gallo and together they set out to do include quilts like Juanita are involved with helping the people of Boquillas border town just down the Rio Grande from Big what they could to make life bearable again for its Luna's. “When I get to the river, do everything above board and completely legal. Bend National Park's southeastern-most point at people. They started by collecting it takes about 15 minutes, so in The park employees had, too, become fond of the Rio Grande Village. canned goods from their friends and all it's an hour getting there from people of Boquillas. Boquillas was once a vibrant village, as tiny, residents of the Big Bend region, here. To get back home, we “The response to the new border laws ranged dusty Mexican border villages go. The people of from Fort Davis and Alpine and leave Boquillas and we take a from tragic to anger to ‘How could they?’ ” said the town, whose poplation topped out at 175 in its Marathon to Terlingua and Marfa. school bus to Muzquiz, which Mark Flippo, a ranger in Big Bend National Park. heyday in the early part of this decade, welcomed They opened a small food bank in takes between 2 1/2 and 3 1/2 “People who came here thought it was the park visitors from the park across the river, earning $2 to Terlingua with a 100-pound bag of hours over ungraded, unpaved service that had done this, but it's not us at all. boat over travelers eager for a taste of culture, a beans, a few cans of food and rice. dirt roads, at times through There has been a whole range of response emotion- real Mexican taco and a cold beer. “I would go around and hit up mountains. It takes 3 1/2 hours ally. Longtime residents didn't necessarily agree The people of the town earned their livelihoods everyone in the bars for $20 or $30 from Muzquiz to Acuna, then 2 with the closing of the border. Many still don't.” by boating and entertaining the park tourists, and and go buy beans with that,” Gallo 1/2 hours to get through cus- by making items and selling them to the said. “One lady from Marathon toms, then almost seven hours to Please See Part 2 of donated a whole trailer load of Americans. Some call them tiny works of art. get back to Terlingua from Del Love Thy Neighbor/Page 10 and food. It almost looked like a bomb Rio. The first 40 miles out of Others trinkets. But they represented the heart and “A Walk Along el rio brave del norte”/Pg. 12 soul of the humble villagers of this humble place. shelter. It was packed. Throughout Boquillas takes four hours. It's And then five Mays ago their world changed. 2004, we were basically just bring- dreadful.” To protect America from terrorists and in an ing donations of food to them, and Should Gallo or De Narvaez The people and families of Boquillas, top left and attempt to stem the flow of illegals crossing the then we started working on dona- ever decide to return by taking right. tions to replace their water system the short cut – crossing the Rio border, Congress closed the U.S.-Mexico border in ple of Boquillas with well water. May 2002. The people of Boquillas could no longer which was run by a gasoline-pow- Grande by boat and returning the way they came – Center, a lean-to home in Boquillas, with a sewing ered generator.” In 2004, the food and genera- they would be fined $10,000 and likely jailed. machine in the foreground. sell their handcrafts to Americans. No more $2 boat longer drive 60 miles to purchase fuel for the tor campaign eventually brought rides across el rio bravo del norte. No more donkey Because of the border closure, Boquillans found Since their efforts have begun, Gallo and De themselves more than 60 miles from the nearest water well generator. Abe and Josie Connally of donated their time, skills and supplies and built a an even larger effort. At left, Danielle Gallo purchases handicrafts from rides into town. No more cultural exchange. No Terlingua Ranch heard of the people's plight and Narvaez have developed relationships with 16 ven- fuel for purchase. With no income, they could no solar powered generator that provides the peo- “It was that year that I started buying their crafts dors in Fort Davis, Marathon, Alpine, Marfa and the villagers. At right, Terlingua resident Zoey more livelihood. The restaurants in town dried up, Sexton helps a woman quilt. Page 10 NOVEMBER 2006 The Angelus Love Thy Neighbor ‘If you love something ... you take care of it’ Editor's Note: This is the second of a two- part series about a group of people in the Big Bend region helping the residents of Boquillas, Mexico, since the U.S.-Mexico border closure of May 2002.

By Jimmy Patterson Editor

TERLINGUA -- Cynta De Narvaez is a for- mer river guide and hiking guide who took tourists on days-long excursions down the Rio Grande or into the wilderness of the majestic, Boquillas Quilt untamed Maderas del Carmen in Mexico, her Show Saturday, November 11 ! Part 2 (Part 1 on Pages 8-9) 9 a.m.-5 p.m. First Presbyterian Church home away from home. She holds four masters 5th and Lockhart Alpine degrees, in geology, archeology, paleontology To help the people of Boquillas, and climate science and she says her homeland call Cynta de Narvaez, in Big Bend is an “outrageous playpen for me.” 432.371.2226 or email Cynta De Narvaez, in photo at left. Top, Juanita Luna, at right, displays an intricate quilt she Yet it is not the rivers and the backcountry [email protected] worked eight months to complete. that receive De Narvaez’s attention any longer. These days, she travels over the river and through moun- the other side," De Narvaez said. “We had weddings back well with the plight of the 90 Boquillas residents. tainous country in remote northern Coahuila, but it is not and forth, we would go to each other's funerals, we went to Gallo says she would like to see a small re-entry kiosk to ensure the recreational needs of tourists. These days, she our children's dances over there and over here. We inter- open at the crossing to Boquillas so that people from the is teaching the poor of Boquillas how to fish. acted and it was good for our kids to be with their kids." town could work in the national park again. “I love those people,” she says of the residents of De Narvaez and Gallo have played a major role in helping “These people don't want to be Americans,” De Narvaez Boquillas. prop up not only the Boquillas economy, but as its people said. “They want to be Mexicans. They just want to come Since Danielle Gallo was forced to take a temporary out- have relied on the two of them to sell their handcrafts, the to the park and sell their crafts and buy their food.” of-state leave from her home in Marathon in late summer, women and the helpful people of the Big Bend region have Gallo said providing a low-traffic re-entry kiosk at bringing a temporary end to her relationship with the bor- had a direct impact on the residents and their financial well Boquillas could even prove helpful in the fight against ter- der villagers in Boquillas, De Narvaez has been taking the being. Even so, De Narvaez says there came a point that rorism if the situation would ever become a larger concern. monthly trips across the river and the 17-hour trips back simply selling their crafts for them was no longer accept- “It's a much greater risk if no one is watching the border home. And she has helped take the Boquillas project to an able. There came a time, she said, when the project had to than if we had someone at a kiosk watching,” she said. “If even higher level. be taken to yet an even higher level. So De Narvaez and anyone came through the area, we would be the first to Now, instead of collecting only walking sticks, painted Gallo began the quilting portion of their effort. They began know. If we had a customs official there three days a week, rocks and handcrafted wire scorpions from the people, the to teach the Mexican villagers how to be self-sustaining. it would be three more days a week than we have now.” women of Boquillas have over the last several months “We believe in fishing poles rather than fish,” De De Narvaez will have one more opportunity to visit the learned to quilt. Narvaez said. “We'd been giving them money, the parks people of Boquillas before the quilt show. One more trip to On Nov. 11 at First Presbyterian Church, located at 5th had been giving them work before the borders closed and teach them, reinforce their personal values and build on the and Lockhart in Alpine, the quilts these women have fash- they were making little wire scorpions full-tilt boogie. But self-reliance she and Gallo have already started helping to ioned day in and day out for several months will be for we felt we needed to try to turn them away from us. We develop. And after the quilt show, De Narvaez will contin- sale, with all proceeds going to benefit the people of the want them to look inward and quit looking at us and rely- ue her hour-long trips over the border and her 17-hour small border village. ing on us to open the border. We can't.” return trips through Muzquiz, through Acuna, through cus- When De Narvaez makes the trip to Boquillas each De Narvaez said the people of Boquillas are no longer toms and finally back home. month, she takes her own money and buys the people's expecting handouts from Americans and their newfound, “The people of Boquillas have their own doctor, their handcrafted items. She says she gives so much of herself yet still growing, self-reliance will be on display at this own schools, their own churches,” De Narvaez said. “They and her money because, “It's hard to look at 90 people weekend’s quilt show in Alpine. just want to be able to eat. We put up the trading posts making quilts and crafts who are counting on the money to “I don't know that Cynta or I or anyone else are really which lured them there originally a hundred years ago. help them make it until the next month.” working for others as much as we are working for our- They aren't asking for hand-outs, just for the ability to live. De Narvaez hopes to make the money back eventually selves,” Gallo said. “So much of what has been done with “I love the Mexicans. And if you love something you but in the short term her hopes are that the people who the border closure has been done to us as much as it has take care of it. My friends were cut out, and I am going to visit the Boquillas Quilt Show in Alpine will come to a been done to them. It's just we're in a much better position take care of them.” true appreciation of just what the people of Boquillas can to do something about it. Cynta is an amazing woman with do and how they have worked so hard to make life better incredible vision and energy. She is unbelievably strong and --- for themselves in the face of what was once hopelessness she knows what a priority this is. I think she is an angel.” and seemingly endless poverty. De Narvaez would likely say the same thing about Gallo. "GQ" magazine is expected to feature a story about De When the border closed, she lost her job as a river guide, Narvaez and the people of Big Bend and Boquillas in its ‘We have great friends’ which makes her directly impacted both professionally and December issue. “When they closed the borders, we had great friends on personally, a big reason why De Narvaez can empathize so The Angelus NOVEMBER 2006 Page 11 OBISPO: Las obras corporales de misericordia (para 3) envuelto en los brazos de Dios. visitarme. Estuve en la cárcel y me fueron a misericordia a los demás por medio de la ver”. (Mt. 25:35-36) oración, el perdón, la paciencia, y el con- para buscar el perdón y la misericordia de Viendo la Cara de Jesús en los Propongo brevemente estas siete maneras suelo o simplemente con nuestra sola pres- nuestro Rey, y para entonces estar total- Necesitados y Pobres en que podemos vivir estas maravillosas encia. Aquí está una lista de las siete tradi- mente dispuestos y listos a llevar la miseri- Jesús nuestro Pastor-Rey nos dice que el obras corporales de misericordia. cionales obras espirituales de misericordia: cordia y la compasión de Dios a otros mien- quiere ser reconocido en, e identificado con, ! Alimentar al hambriento: Vivimos esta ! Instruir al ignorante —Tenemos innu- tras nos esforzamos a entregarnos humilde y todas las personas necesitadas. Jesús infiere obra donado a organizaciones que luchan merables maneras de vivir esta primera obra valientemente con un espíritu misericor- en la parábola del juicio del mundo que el contra el hambre, como Catholic Outreach, espiritual cada día. Los padres de familias dioso, compasivo y justo para promover y juicio se va a realizar no principalmente St. Vincent de Paul Society, Catholic tienen oportunidades constantes para educar fomentar cada día el Reino de Cristo el Rey según la fidelidad religiosa, sino si lo hemos Charities y Helping Hands. También llevan- y enseñar a sus hijos y todos conocemos aquí en este mundo. reconocido a el en nuestro prójimo necesitado do comidas enlatadas a cocinas y despensas, personas que necesitan tener la oportunidad proveyéndole alimento, ropa, vivienda, alivio o ayudando en entregar comidas a los de aprender, para poder mejorar sus vidas. “Venga a Nosotros tu Reino” y consuelo. Si verdaderamente tratamos de ancianos, llevando comida a un banco de Henry Adams dijo, “Un maestro afecta eter- Cada vez que rezamos el Padre Nuestro ver a Jesús en las caras de los necesitados y comida o albergues familiares o uniéndose a namente; el nunca sabe cuando termina su decimos, “venga a nosotros tu Reino…” los pobres de este mundo, al final, cuando un grupo que les ayuda a los desamparados. influencia.” Estas palabras que hemos estado repitiendo nos encontremos al Señor para ser juzgados, ! Dar de beber al sediento: Por ejemplo, ! Aconsejar al dudoso—Nosotros vivi- por veintiún siglos. Cuando rezamos esta no habrá ninguna gran sorpresa. Cara a cara una gotera. No dejar que el agua corra mos en un mundo que está lleno de dudas, parte del Padre Nuestro, le estamos diciendo con el Señor, podremos decir—“¡Si, te cuando uno se cepilla los dientes. Ofrecer un mundo donde muchas personas han per- a Jesús nuestro Rey misericordioso, que reconozco!!” Te he visto muchas, muchas agua a los corredores en una maratón. dido la confianza—confianza en Dios, con- queremos que el Reino de nuestro Padre de veces ante el hambriento, el sediento, el Apoyar los esfuerzos de conservar el agua. fianza en su vecino, y confianza en si mis- paz, justicia y misericordia venga hoy, enfermo, el desconocido, el encarcelado.” Mantener limpios nuestros lagos, ríos y mos. Durante los momentos más oscuros de venga ahora a nuestro mundo. Al concluir nuestro Año de la arroyos. la vida, las palabras de fe y bondad de una Especialmente pedimos a que venga a Reconciliación en la Diócesis de San ! Vestir al desnudo: Podemos hacer esto persona pueden animar a los demás a creer. donde hay guerra, como en Iraq y Angelo, y al recordar y celebrar en nuestras donando ropa en buenas condiciones o ropa Hay una inscripción que se encuentra sobre Afganistán, y a donde hay un conflicto con- propias vidas la misericordia que Jesús nue- no necesitada a centros de ayuda o alber- la pared en Colonia, Alemania después del tinuo en la tierra de Israel, la tierra de la stro Rey nos ha manifestado en cada uno de gues. Donando viejos anteojos que ya no se holocausto que dice: “Yo creo en el sol, vida, muerte y resurrección de Cristo, y a nosotros, se nos invita a tener una nueva usan a grupos que se los entregan a los que aunque no esté brillando. Yo creo en el donde hay tensión y tumulto en nuestro pro- apreciación por el sacramento de la los necesitan. Proveer ropa en tiempo de amor, aunque no lo siento. Yo creo en Dios pio país y en muchas naciones de nuestro Penitencia y Reconciliación y a hacer un frío a las familias necesitadas. aun cuando Dios esté callado.” mundo, y en nuestras ciudades, parroquias y nuevo compromiso para ser gente misericor- ! Visitar al encarcelado: Esto quiere decir ! Convertir al pecador—es la tercera familias. diosa, gente compasiva, se nos invita sim- ponerse en contacto con los detenidos y sus obra espiritual de misericordia. Muchos de “Venga a nosotros tu Reino…” significa plemente a ser buenos Samaritanos. familias. Y también con las víctimas de nosotros no nos sentimos a gustos con esta que queremos que la justicia del Reino de Nuestro Rey misericordioso nos recuerda en crímenes, a través de las parroquias o centro obra de misericordia, sabiendo que nos Cristo venga a nuestro mundo y derrote la el relato de las ovejas y los cabritos que comunitarios. Ofreciéndose como voluntar- hemos alejado de Dios en algún momento corrupción, discriminación, odio, rechazo y nuestra felicidad eterna depende primera- ios al ministerio de justicia criminal. de nuestras vidas por el pecado. segregación y oramos para que haga un fin a mente de como buscamos y ayudamos a Ayudando a los que han sido liberados de la Necesitamos la misericordia de Dios porque las injusticias mundiales sociales y económi- nuestro prójimo en sus necesidades humanas cárcel para ayudarles a rehacer su vida. todos somos pecadores, pero también somos cas y a la degradación moral que es predom- básicas. Así pues, propongo como una man- ! Proteger al desamparado: invitados por Dios a ser agentes en el pro- inante en nuestro país y en muchas partes era de continuar viviendo el Año de la Ofreciéndose como voluntario en algún pro- ceso de la conversión de los pecadores, nue- del mundo. Cuando rezamos esta frase, Reconciliación más allá en el futuro dando grama de albergue de su iglesia o comu- stros vecinos, comenzando con los miem- “Venga a nosotros tu Reino…” estamos en énfasis nuevo en el vivir las obras especiales nidad. Donando productos básicos para bros de nuestra familia, que quizá hayan realidad rezando por un nuevo espíritu de que quizá hoy en día se hayan perdido no ayudar a los desamparados. Apoyando a los perdido su camino en la vida. Los juicios amor y misericordia para los matrimonios, solamente en nuestra terminología, sino esfuerzos para proveer viviendas de bajo duros y las condenaciones solamente para los padres e hijos, para los obispos y también en nuestra práctica Cristiana. Me costo. endurecen los corazones en lugar de cam- sus sacerdotes, para los sacerdotes y sus feli- estoy refiriendo aquí y recomendando, a que ! Visitar al enfermo: Ayudando a una biarlos. Necesitamos recordar las palabras greses, para todos los miembros de difer- pongamos mucha más atención a lo que lla- familias que tienen a un enfermo cuidando a del famoso himno, “Sublime Gracia”— entes razas y religiones. Cuando rezamos mamos las obras de misericordia espirituales los niños de la familia, cocinándoles algo, o “¡Sublime gracia, que dulce es, que salvó a que venga tu Reino, estamos rezando que y corporales. Déjenme decir una palabra lavándoles la ropa o llevando en su auto a un infeliz como yo! Andaba perdido y nos traiga nuevo amor para los niños naci- acerca de las siete maneras en que podemos un enfermo al médico. Visitan a un enfermo ahora me halló, fui ciego más ahora veo la dos y no nacidos y para los ancianos, y un vivir las obras espirituales y corporales de en su casa o en un asilo de ancianos. luz.” nuevo espíritu de servicio, ayuda y com- misericordia. Ofreciéndose como Ministros de la ! Sufrir con paciencia-es la cuarta obra pasión hacia los pobres, los enfermos, los Eucaristía para llevar la Comunión a los espiritual de misericordia. Tenemos innu- necesitados, los olvidados y los millones de Las Obras Corporales de enfermos en los hogares y hospitales. merables oportunidades de vivir esta obra marginados. Misericordia ! Enterrar al muerto: Por ejemplo, plan- diariamente. En cuanto a sufrir con pacien- Sin embargo, para que este Reino de paz, Primeramente, reflejamos sobre las obras tar un árbol en memoria de un difunto. cia, el famoso Leonardo da Vinci nos guía justicia, amor y misericordia venga, corporales de misericordia que tienen sus Consolar a una familia de duelo, y ayudán- acerca de como vivir esta obra: “La pacien- nosotros, como discípulos de Cristo, juntos raíces en la Escritura y son una expresión doles hacer las compras o llevándolos en su cia sirve como una protección contra los con todas las mujeres y hombres de buena antigua de nuestro amor a Dios cuidando de auto al cementerio. Ayuda con los costos males como la ropa nos protege del frío. voluntad, debemos estar dispuestos a traba- las necesidades físicas de los hijos de Dios. del funeral de una persona pobre y ofrézcase Porque si nos ponemos más ropa cuando jar, sufrir y rezar para que el Reino venga Estas obras abarcan un modo compasivo de a presidir en los velatorios. aumente el frío, el frío no podrá dañarte— mientras trabajamos por la reconciliación y vivir, una actitud generosa hacia los necesi- ! Obras de Misericordia Espirituales crece en la paciencia cuando encuentres la misericordia para todos. tados, sean nuestros queridos hermanos o Ahora permítanme decir unas breves pal- grandes males, entonces los males irritarán Jesús nuestro Rey misericordioso es nue- extranjeros. Estas obras corporales de mis- abras sobre las siete obras de misericordia tu mente.” stro pastor y salvador. Como un pastor ericordia se derivan de lo que nos dice Jesús espirituales. Estas obras de misericordia ! Perdonar a tus enemigos—es la quinta amable, Jesús siempre busca a los perdidos, en el Capitulo 25 del Evangelio de San espirituales nos ayudan a tocar los corazones obra espiritual de misericordia. Cuando per- sana a los heridos, y restaura a los rechaza- Mateo: “Porque tuve hambre y ustedes me y las almas de las personas necesitadas por donamos, entonces comenzamos a compren- dos, enfrenta al mal y afirma lo bueno. dieron de comer; tuve sed y ustedes me medio de nuestra compasión, nuestro cariño, der lo que significa la misericordia y el Todo mal debe ser conquistado y sometido dieron de beber. Fui forastero y ustedes me y nuestro cuidado. Así como la misericordia al poder del reino de Dios, a través de recibieron en su casa. Anduve sin ropas y de Dios nos trae nueva esperanza y nueva Cristo, nuestro Rey. Todo lo bueno está me vistieron. Estuve enfermo y fueron a vida, nosotros somos llamados a llevar esa (Mira OBISPO/15) Page 12 NOVEMBER 2006 The Angelus

Love Thy Neighbor A walk along el rio bravo del norte y son and I went for a hike There is the tangible presence of our My son and I turned to continue our doing so. recently. It was a Friday after- Maker in this place. And if you are lucky hike a moment later and, "Amigo!" the I told him we would return shortly. Mnoon and we took off for Big enough to be but a mere human mingling man yelled again. “Anything else?” I asked. Bend and decided we'd with this creation, you feel as tiny as a I stopped and turned. “Ice cream,” my friend said. “B-nilla ice do a few walks in the granular speck of ash on the head of a pin. “Amigo, would you mind to go to the cream. Maybe pecan. And a ‘Nickers bar.” mountain and desert air. When I told a coworker about our hike store.” I smiled. My son smiled. We had work With the hub-bub that is this weekend, I learned about a man who I stood for a moment. to do. fall, we thought a break nearly drowned in the Rio Grande when “Now?” I asked, somewhat taken aback Less than an hour later, we were back. would do us good. his canoe became hung in an eddy. The by the boldness of his request. I'm from Hiking a half-mile with 15 pounds of And it did. man survived. And from that moment on the suburbs, you want something from the frozen chicken, cold ice cream and choco- Then it did something he has called himself a Christian, both in store, you go get it yourself. late in a bag which I was glad had a han- else totally unexpected. and out of the confines of this magnificent The man shook his head yes. dle. We walked back to the place where James and I walked piece of nature. “My friend,” he said, “he needs some we first met. Patterson along the Rio Grande, As James and I walked along the banks, chicken from the store.” This time, two men approached in a taking in the beauty and we emerged from a patch of reeds and And I looked at my son and I said yes, boat. I stepped into the river and handed solitude of the region, wondering how the cane that had grown high because of we would go to the store for his friend. them the bag. They beamed. To me, it was place got so lucky. How could one place recent river flooding. I walked a few steps into the river as the the same beam I get when I sit down to a get it all? Such beauty. Magnitude. The And when we came out of the brush, we man rowed his boat across the muddy huge plate of lasagna. To them, the beam pristine, quiet, gorgeous mountains. The saw the men across the river on the brown border that kept him and his friends meant something else. Something much beautiful desolation of the desert. The Mexican side. and thousands of others like them from more than I will probably ever understand. magnificent backdrop of the Sierra del “Amigo! Amigo!” one of them yelled. chicken. And clean water. And gasoline. It was food for the table. It was gold. Carmens. Big Bend is like Mr. and Miss We waved. And sugar. And cookies for their kids. The man who asked for the chicken Popular in high school. The kids who had We talked to them briefly about the day My new friend reached into his pocket shook my hand. He took my right hand it all. And nearby, there were always the and the weather and we learned we had as he balanced himself in his boat. He with his right hand and then covered them kids who had nothing. mutual acquaintances; a woman in pulled out $7 in crumpled American bills both with both of his hands. But I don't hate Big Bend because it's Terlingua, another in Marathon. and handed it to me. “Thank you, amigo,” he said. Twice. beautiful. I marvel at God's handiwork. And when the men learned of our mutu- “My friend needs 10 pounds of chicken. Three times. And I know He vacations here. I feel him al friendships, a sort of trust seemed to It's just up the road at the store.” every time I go. emerge. I took the money, feeling guilty for (Please See PATTERSON/7)

Bill and Monica Dodds Humans and revisionist nostalgia

By Bill and Monica Dodds years in college or the military; first job; Spirit. Catholic News Service courtship and marriage; little children in the house -- and on and on. The "Real" Lives of the Saints "Nostalgia isn't what it used to be," the Each personal era was less than a perfect It can be easy to get the false impression joke goes. Often when we look back on time because we live in an imperfect that many of the saints who weren't mar- our lives, times past seem so much better world. Every time had its share of tyrs had it made because they "were" than times present headaches and heartaches. saints -- that even when tough times came that even the "old But there's another reason we see things they simply prayed away their troubles, days" talked about differently when we look back on a partic- and everything was solved instantly. back then appear ular time in our life. That perspective As we head into November, a month tra- better than the "old makes it easier to spot what was good, ditionally associated with the saints, it days" spoken of what was special, what was a grace or might be wise (there's that gift again!) to now. blessing. Frustrations and disappointments take a little time to read the life of a saint, Why? One reason pale or disappear when the passing of time not a rosy rendition, but one that tells the is that we human sharpens our focus. true story of that individual's faith lived beings have an Money was tight? So what? We were out in times that were far from "the good amazing capacity Bill & Monica Dodds together. The boss was a jerk? No doubt. old days." to remember only But things changed. (He retired, you trans- On the Web: A Way of Remembering Answers what we want to remember. We want to ferred, you found a better job.) Sometimes Looking for a way to reminisce as a remember what was good and forget what the children drove you crazy? And how! family? The Idaho Commission for was bad. Ask a senior family member But now the house can be a little too big Libraries has a cute idea for "Family (From PUZZLE/Pg. 13) about the Great Depression and you're and a little too quiet. Trivial Pursuit." You can check it out -- 1. David likely to hear: "Times were tough but we " Wouldn't it be nice to be able to spot along with a lot of other suggestions -- at: 2. Noah always had food on the table, or were able more easily what is good in our lives right http://libraries.idaho.gov/node/463. 3. Moses to stay together even after the bank fore- now? To see what truly matters and act 4. Solomon closed on the house, or didn't have it near- accordingly? We can, with the help of the 5. John ly as bad as a lot of other families. Holy Spirit. "Spotting what's good," 6. Judas "sharpening our focus" or "counting our Bill and Monica Dodds are the founders of the 7. Jesus Now, looking back, we still don't know Friends of St. John the Caregiver (FSJC.org) and the end of our story but we're likely to blessings" are all ways to define acting editors of My Daily Visitor magazine. They can be know how a particular chapter concluded: wisely. And wisdom, as we all know, is contacted at [email protected]. Their the growing-up years; the school years; first on the list of the gifts of the Holy Web site is www.BillDodds.com. The Angelus NOVEMBER 2006 Page 13 JUST 4 KIDS Elijah helps a widow during a drought Elijah went before Ahab, a king small cup of water to drink." The who did evil in the sight of the woman bowed and went to get it Lord, to deliver a warning from for him. God: "As the Lord, the God of Food was as scarce as water, Israel, lives, whom I serve, during yet Elijah called out to the woman, these years there shall be no dew "Please bring along a bit of READ MORE ABOUT IT: 1 Kings 17 quiet area near a stream. However, he started to or rain, except at my word." bread." Q&A attract followers who wanted to imitate his life of And the kingdom began a long The woman turned and said to 1. Who brought food to Elijah at the stream? devotion. The men worked hard to develop their drought from that moment. him: "As the Lord, your God, lives, 2. How did God help the generous widow? land and built the first monastic school in Wales. But God also gave Elijah I have nothing baked; there is only Illtud was driven from his home by a hostile instructions for his own safety. a handful of flour in my jar and a BIBLE ACCENT chieftain, and the land was flooded when the "Leave here, go east and hide in little oil in my jug. Just now I was Many books of the Old Testament tell the sea wall collapsed. After he provided food to story of the people of Israel and their relation- the countryside plagued by famine, the peo- the Wadi Cherith, east of the collecting a couple of sticks, to go ship with God. The first five books are called ple named some of their churches and vil- Jordan. You shall drink of the in and prepare something for the Pentateuch. They are a mix of history lages after him. He lived to a very old age. stream, and I have commanded myself and my son; when we have and instructions, and include the Ten Commandments. We honor St. Illtud Nov. 6. ravens to feed you there." eaten it, we shall die." The next section contains primarily history Elijah obeyed God, and the Elijah looked at the woman with KIDS' CLUB books, from the Book of Joshua to the Second ravens brought him bread and compassion. She did not have Book of Maccabees. In Joshua, the Israelites Share your thoughts on this week's Bible possess the land promised to them by God. The story with family and friends by writing an meat, and the water in the stream enough food to feed herself and rest of the history tells how the people some- essay in response to this question: was fresh and cool. her son, but she had been willing times listened to God, but other times did not. What are some of the things you are The sun was hot every day, and to share even that with Elijah, a Through it all God showed his love for them. thankful for this Thanksgiving? Next come the books of wisdom and poet- no rain had fallen for a very long stranger. ry. These books reflect the range of emotions time. Eventually, even Elijah's "Do not be afraid," he told her. PUZZLE of the writers, from joy to sorrow, praise to pity. Match the Bible characters in the list with the stream dried up in the harsh "Go and do as you propose. But Last are the books of prophecy. The correct stories. Not all of the names are used, drought. first make me a little cake and prophets were chosen by God to perform an and hints have been provided. important duty or to give special messages to But the Lord did not leave Elijah bring it to me. Then you can pre- David ... Jeremiah ... Noah ...Artemas ... the Israelites. Moses ... Jesus ... Joseph ... John ... Philip without food or water. He said to pare something for yourself and God still uses the Old Testament to speak ... Judas ... Solomon ... Aaron him, "Move on to Zarephath of your son. For the Lord, the God of to us as well. Sidon and stay there. I have des- Israel, says, 'The jar of flour shall 1. He fought Goliath. (1 Samuel 17) ignated a widow there to provide not go empty, nor the jug of oil run SPOTLIGHT ON SAINTS: 2. He built a big boat. (Genesis 6) St. Illtud 3. His mother put him in a basket. (Ex. 2) for you." dry, until the day the Lord sends Illtud, who lived in the sixth century, was a 4. He asked God for wisdom. (1 Kings 3) Elijah left immediately. rain upon the earth.'" Welsh priest and disciple of St. Germanus. 5. He baptized Jesus. (Matthew 3) As Elijah entered the city, he The Lord kept his promise, and Since Illtud served in the army of a chieftain, 6. He betrayed Jesus. (Luke 22) saw a widow gathering sticks. He the woman had flour and oil until he also is referred to as "Illtud the Knight." 7. He changed water into wine. (John 2) said to her, "Please bring me a the end of the drought. He chose to live as a monk and a hermit in a

Coming of Age How do you pass the time in slow-moving traffic? By M. Regina Cram eastern Ohio. Eastern states are wimpy hours, driving across the entire length of Do you have any idea how long 200 Catholic News Service states, as any westerner will testify. Let's Pennsylvania, a three-mile spit of West miles is when the highway is under con- face it: You can cross the entire state of Virginia (talk about wimpy), then across struction? Oh, and there were seven people "Everyone talks about the weather but no Massachusetts in the time it takes to com- the border into Ohio, for a total of 530 jammed into our van, most of them one does anything about it," Mark Twain plete a Sudoku puzzle. Rhode Island can fit miles. No problem, right? teenagers. once said. into the glove compartment of a Texas Wrong. Evidently someone in the bril- With all those cozy hours together, we The same can be said about traffic. truck, and Pennsylvania, which we eastern- liant state of Pennsylvania decided to had plenty of time to come up with ideas I have an uncanny ability to get into the ers consider massive, is about the size of a repave the major highway that spans from for things to do on a long car ride. Here are slowest lane on the highway. And nowhere paper route in Montana. We're talking seri- east to west. The entire highway. We had some of the better ones: is this more true than in a traffic jam. ously wimpy. the pleasure of driving over 200 miles of Recently I drove from Connecticut to This trip was supposed to take nine road construction. (Please See AGE/7) Page 14 NOVEMBER 2006 The Angelus RECONCILIATION: Christ wants to be recognized in, identified with all (From 3) be able to say—“Yes, I recognize you!! I have seen you you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you many, many times before in the hungry, the thirsty, the ill, the welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was members of different races and religions. When we pray that stranger, the imprisoned, and the sick.” sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited thy Kingdom come, we are praying that it bring new love and As we bring to closure our beautiful Year of Reconciliation me.” [Mt.25:35-36] compassion for children born and unborn, for the elderly, and for the Diocese of San Angelo, and as we remember and cel- Let me briefly suggest seven ways that we can live out a new spirit of service, care and concern for the poor, the sick, ebrate in our own lives the mercy that Jesus our King has these wonderful corporal works of mercy. the needy, the forgotten and the millions of marginalized. manifested to each one of us, we are invited to have a new Feed the hungry: We live this work by donating to chari- In order for this Kingdom of peace, justice, love and mercy appreciation for the Sacrament of Penance and ties that are fighting hunger, like Catholic Outreach, St.Vincent to come, we, as disciples of Christ, along with all women and Reconciliation, and to make a new commitment to be people de Paul Society, Catholic Charities. Also by bringing canned men of good will, must be willing to pray, to sacrifice and of mercy, people of compassion—we are invited simply to goods to a food pantry or soup kitchen, or helping with meals suffer as we work for reconciliation and mercy for all. As be good Samaritans. Our merciful King reminds us in the to the elderly. Taking food to the food bank and family shelter, Jesus taught us in another challenging parable, once we have story of the sheep and the goats that our eternal happiness working with programs to care for the homeless. been forgiven by our merciful King, we are to show forgive- depends primarily on how we reached out and helped our Give drink to the thirsty: For example, fix a leaky ness and mercy toward one another. neighbor with their basic human needs. Hence, I propose that faucet. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth. Support Jesus our merciful King is our shepherd and our savior. a way to continue to live out this Year of Reconciliation far efforts to conserve water, and bring potable water to all peo- Like a kind shepherd, Jesus constantly seeks the lost, he into the future is to give new emphasis to living some special ple. Work to keep clean our lakes, rivers and streams. heals the injured, he restores the rejected, he confronts evil works that today perhaps have been lost not only in our ter- Clothe the naked: We can do this by dropping good, and affirms good. All evil is utterly conquered and subjected minology, but also in our Christian practice. I am referring unneeded clothes at a thrift shop, shelter or aid agency; by donat- to the power of God’s reign through Christ, our King. All here and recommending that we give much more attention to ing old eyeglasses to groups that give them to those in need; by goodness is wrapped in God’s embrace. what we call the spiritual and the corporal works of mercy. providing warm clothing to a needy family in the winter time. Let me say a word about the seven ways we can live out the Visit the imprisoned: This means reaching out through Seeing Jesus in the Faces of the needy and poor corporal and the spiritual works of mercy. community or church ministries to prisoners and their fami- Jesus our Shepherd-King tells us that he wants to be recog- lies, as well as to those who have been victims of crimes. nized in, and identified with, all people in need. Jesus strong- THE CORPORAL WORKS OF MERCY Become a volunteer for our criminal justice ministry. Help ly infers in the parable of the judgment of the world that First, we reflect on the corporal works of mercy which are those released from prison to make a new beginning. judgment is levied not primarily according to religious fideli- rooted in Scripture and are an ancient expression of our love Shelter the homeless: Volunteer at your church or com- ty, but according to whether we have recognized him in our for God by caring for the physical needs of God’s children. munity shelter or drop-in program. Donate basic supplies to neighbor in need, by feeding, clothing, housing, refreshing These works embrace a compassionate way of life, a gener- them. Support low-cost housing efforts. and consoling our neighbor. If we truly try to see Jesus in the ous attitude toward those in need, whether near and dear to Visit the sick: By helping a family that has a sick mem- faces of the needy and the poor on this earth, in the end, us or virtual strangers. These corporal works of mercy flow ber by babysitting, making a meal, doing laundry or driving a when we meet the Lord in judgment, it will be no big sur- from what Jesus tells us in Chapter 25 of Matthew’s Gospel: sick person to medical appointments. Visit shut-ins and nurs- prise on that day of days. Face to face with the Lord, we will “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and (Please See MERCY/15) STEM: Animals have always been vulnerable part of creation

(From 6) use of animals to produce foie gras is responsible stewardship of the gift that friends in the animal kingdom, we decide clearly in another category altogether. It is they really are. Even those animals used the sort of society we will become: either same direct relationship to God that man neither a humane nor a reasonable use of for legitimate purposes ought to be treat- a society marked by respect, kindness and has, they are still creatures of His will, animals. ed humanely with reasonable housing, reason; or one that is marked by various creatures we must respect as companions The production of foie gras is instead care, food, companionship and pain con- forms of barbarism. in creation." oriented toward the satisfaction of a dis- trol if needed. When I gave my statement at the press ordered desire, a disturbing desire to sat- Animals are a vulnerable part of cre- --- conference, I mentioned that when I had isfy the human palate to the point of pro- ation, and that vulnerability should con- trained as a research scientist at Yale, I moting serious animal mistreatment. tinually prompt us to examine our deci- Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned often had to deal with questions about Some old Catholic manualists might even sions on how we relate to them: are we his doctorate in neuroscience from Yale research ethics, and about the use of ani- advert to the term, "morose delectation" exercising a reasonable and ordered stew- and did post-doctoral work at Harvard. mals in laboratory settings. I pointed out to describe the root problem of a disor- ardship, or are we exploiting their vulner- He is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, that while animals may be sacrificed or dered palate that promotes other disor- ability for selfish and disordered ends? To MA, and serves as the Director of used humanely for legitimate purposes, ders. Animals are an important part of the extent that we are attentive to the Education at The National Catholic such as obtaining food and clothing, or God's creation, and we must live in an weakness and vulnerability not only of Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. See advancing serious scientific research, the ordered way with them, exercising a our brother human beings, but even of our www.ncbcenter.org

Over 70,000 items in stock! Mon.-Fri. Pilgrim Journeys 9 a.m.ó6 p.m. Celebrating 25 years serving Alexandra Morris, DS g‹‚w…À· Saturday West Texas Catholics! 9 a.m.ó5 p.m. International Specialist Religious Store 325-653-8011 Out of Town? Call 800-759-1807 [email protected] Take your group to the mystical places of the Catholic World, walk in the Footsteps of John Paul II, or visit the Catholic Rosaries, Jewelry, Statues, Pictures, Plaques, Crosses, Shrines of the Americas 432.687.1038 Sacramental Gifts, Bibles, Books, Candles, Music, [email protected] www.pilgrimjourneys.joystar.com 624 West Avenue N Greeting Cards and many other items. San Angelo, TX 76903 Phone orders are welcome! The Angelus NOVEMBER 2006 Page 15 MERCY: Spiritual works of mercy help us touch hearts, souls of others (From 14) is silent.” debt, the huge amount he owed. The master not only touch the lives of the living, but also ! To convert the sinner – is the third spiri- was moved to compassion and forgave him in God’s design help those who have gone ing home patients. Become a Eucharistic tual work of mercy. Knowing that we have the entire debt. Then, when this servant before us so that they can enjoy the fullness Minister to take Communion to the sick in fallen away from God at some point in our found one of his fellow servants who owed of eternal life. homes and hospitals. lives through sin, many of us may feel him a much smaller amount, he seized the As we end our Year of Reconciliation, !Bury the dead: For example, plant a tree uncomfortable with this work of mercy. We servant and started to choke him, demanding mercy is the key word. Mercy expresses the in someone’s memory. Comfort a bereaved need God’s mercy because we are all sin- “Pay back what you owe.” The fellow ser- highest form of love that God has for us as family through such practical help as grocery ners, but we are invited by God to also be vant pleaded, but the first servant did not God’s creatures. One of the special shopping or driving them to visit the ceme- agents in the conversion process of sinners, show pity and compassion. When news of Beatitudes as given to us by Jesus is tery. Offer to help cover the cost of the funer- of our neighbors, beginning with our own this was brought to the master, he was very “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be al for a poor person, and to be a prayer family members, who perhaps have lost their disturbed. The master brought back the ser- shown mercy.” [Mt.5:48] In Matthew’s presider at wake services. way in life. Harsh judgments or condemna- vant who had been forgiven and levied upon Gospel we are told to be perfect like our ! Spiritual works of mercy: Now let me tions only harden hearts rather than change him a severe punishment: “You wicked ser- heavenly Father is perfect. When Luke say a few brief words about the seven spiri- them. We need to recall the words from the vant! I forgave you and your entire debt comes to this same topic in his Gospel, tual works of mercy. These spiritual works of famous hymn, “Amazing Grace” - because you begged me to. Should you not instead of using the word, perfect or perfec- mercy help us to touch the hearts and souls “Amazing grace, [how sweet the sound] that have had pity on your fellow servant as I had tion, Luke has Jesus saying to us “Be merci- of people in need through our compassion, saved a wretch like me! I once was lost but pity on you?”Then in anger, his master hand- ful, just as your Heavenly Father is merci- our care, and our concern. Just as God’s now am found, was blind, but now I see.” ed him over to the torturers. ful.” [Lk 6:36] Luke is telling us that the mercy brings hope and new life, we are ! To bear wrongs patiently - is the fourth ! To comfort the sorrowful – is the sixth height of God’s perfection is found in God’s called to bring that mercy to others through spiritual work of mercy. We have countless spiritual work of mercy. Our world is filled mercy. prayer, forgiveness, patience, consolation, or opportunities to live this work almost daily. with sorrow, with people who are in deep When asked, “Who is my neighbor?” simply by our presence. Here is a list of the As regards bearing wrongs patiently, the grief, many of whom have given up on life Jesus replied with the story of the Good seven traditional spiritual works of mercy: famous Leonardo da Vinci guides us as how or who are tempted to take their own lives. Samaritan: A man was assaulted, robbed and ! To teach the ignorant – We have count- to live out this work: “Patience serves as a Again, almost daily we meet people who are left for dead. Two respected religious people less ways of living out this first spiritual protection against wrong as clothes do in sorrow because of the death of a dear one, passed by without helping. Then a third per- work almost on a daily basis. Parents have against cold. For if you put on more clothes because of the loss of a family member son, a Samaritan who was rejected, who was constant opportunities to teach their children, as the cold increases, it will have no power through misunderstanding or hurt, or because looked down upon by others and considered and we all know people who need to be to hurt you—grow in patience when you of a divorce or some other tragedy. A to be a heretic, stopped and provided assis- given the opportunity for education so that meet with great wrongs, and then they will glimpse of a little bud of compassion that tance. He bandaged the victim, got him to an they can improve their lives. Henry Adams then be powerless to vex your mind. miraculously blooms in a desert of pain or inn, and paid for his care. Then Jesus asked once said, “A teacher affects eternity; he can ! To forgive enemies – is the fifth spiritual sickness, may help a neighbor to discover his questioner which one was the neighbor. never tell where his influence stops.” work of mercy. When we forgive, we begin hope and meaning in suffering. Oliver “The one who showed…mercy. Jesus said to !To counsel the doubtful – We live in a to understand what God’s forgiveness and Wendell Holmes said, “There is no better him, ‘Go and do likewise.’” [Lk 10:37]. world that is filled with doubt, a world where mercy are all about. The inspiration needed exercise for the heart than reaching down As we end our Year of Reconciliation, so many people have lost trust – trust in to live this work of mercy is given to us by and lifting someone up.” Jesus is telling us to go and do likewise God, trust in neighbor, and trust in self. the powerful teaching of Jesus in another ! To pray for the living and the dead – is every day of our lives. This is where we will During life’s darkest moments, a person’s parable that He told us [Matthew 18:21-35] the seventh spiritual work of mercy. Each find our true happiness in this life and in words of faith and kindness can shine when Peter asked Christ, “Lord, if my broth- day we should take some time to pray for the eternal life. To help us fully comprehend the through, encouraging others who are doubt- er sins against me, how often must I forgive living, members of our families, members of mercy and forgiveness that Christ our King ful or lost hope to believe. There is an him? …as many as seven times?” Jesus our parishes, members of our community, wants to give us, we need to stand with inscription found on a wall in Cologne, answered, “I say to you, not seven times, but people we work with, people we go to Mary at the foot of the cross and contem- Germany following the holocaust which seventy-seven times.” Then Jesus went on school with. And, we should also always plate the mystery in her heart of sorrow, says: “ I believe in the sun, even when it is to tell the powerful parable about the servant pray constantly for our beloved deceased. anguish, and suffering and apply it to our not shining. I believe in love, even when I do who pleaded for mercy with his master, the The greatest power in the world is prayer lives. not feel it. I believe in God, even when God king, because he was not able to pay his power, and it is our belief that this power can OBISPO: Es aquí donde podemos encontrar nuestra felicidad en esta vida y en la vida eterna (From 11) malo! Yo te perdoné toda aquella deuda vivos, los miembros de nuestras familias, parro- Cuando le preguntaron a Jesús, “¿Quién es mi porque me lo rogaste. Pues tú también debiste quias, comunidades, de nuestros compañeros de prójimo?” El les contestó con la historia del perdón de Dios. La inspiración necesaria para tener compasión de tu compañero, del mismo trabajo o de la escuela. Y también debemos de Buen Samaritano: Un hombre fue asaltado, vivir esta obra de misericordia la encontramos modo que yo tuve compasión de ti, enojado el rezar constantemente por nuestros queridos robado y dejado por muerto. Dos personas reli- en la enseñanza poderosa de Jesús que nos dijo rey lo mandó a ser torturado”. difuntos. El poder más grande en el mundo es giosas pasaron y no lo ayudaron. El tercero que en otra parábola [Mt. 18:21-35] cuando Pedro le !Consolar al afligido—es la sexta obra espiri- el poder de la oración, y es nuestra fe de que pasó era un Samaritano que se había considera- preguntó, “Señor, ¿cuántas veces debo perdonar tual de misericordia. Nuestro mundo está lleno este poder no solamente puede tocar las vidas de do como un rechazado y lo veían como un des- a mi hermano, si me hace algo malo? ¿Hasta de dolor, gente que sufre la muerte de un ser los que aún están vivos, pero también según el preciado y lo consideraban un hereje, pero este siete veces? Jesús le contestó, no te digo hasta querido, muchos que se han dado por vencidos o plan de Dios, a los que han dejado este mundo se paró y le ayudó. El le ayudó vendando sus siete veces, sino hasta setenta veces siete” han tratado de terminar sus propias vidas. para disfrutar de la plenitud del cielo. heridas, lo llevó a una posada y pagó por su Después Jesús continuó con la poderosa parábo- Diariamente nos encontramos con personas que Al terminar el Año de la Reconciliación la pal- cuidado. Entonces Jesús le preguntó al que le la del sirviente que le pidió misericordia al rey, sufren por la muerte de un ser querido, por la per- abra clave es la misericordia. La misericordia es hacía la pregunta de quién era el prójimo. “El porque no tenía con que pagar la gran deuda dida de un familiar por medio de un mal la forma suprema de amor que tiene por nosotros que tuvo compasión. Jesús le dijo, Pues ve y que le debía. El rey le tuvo compasión y le per- entendimiento, o de una herida, o por un divorcio como criaturas de Dios. Una de las haz tú lo mismo.” [Lc 10:37] donó toda la deuda. Entonces, cuando ese o por una tragedia. Un brote pequeño de com- Bienaventuranzas especiales que Jesús nos dio es Al terminar el Año de la Reconciliación, Jesús sirviente se encontró con unos de sus com- pasión que milagrosamente florece en un desierto “Dichosos los misericordiosos pues obtendrán nos dice ve y haz lo mismo cada día de nuestras pañeros que le debía una pequeña deuda, lo de dolor y malestar, puede ayudar a alguien a misericordia.” [Mt. 5:4-8] Cuando San Lucas vidas. Es aquí donde podemos encontrar nues- agarró del cuello y comenzó a ahogarlo, deman- descubrir la esperanza y el significado del sufrim- toca a ese mismo tema en su Evangelio, en lugar tra felicidad en esta vida y en la vida eterna. dando, “¡Págame lo que me debes!” El com- iento. Oliver Wendell Holmes dijo, “No hay un de usar la palabra, perfecto o perfección, San Para poder comprender plenamente la miseri- pañero le rogó, pero el sirviente no le tuvo ejercicio mejor para el corazón que extender la Lucas presenta a Jesús que nos dice, “Sean ust- cordia y el perdón que Cristo nuestro Rey nos piedad ni compasión. Cuando le llegó la noticia mano hacia abajo y levantar a alguien.” edes misericordiosos, como también su Padre es quiere dar, necesitamos ponernos con María al de lo sucedido a rey, se perturbó mucho. El rey !Orar por los vivos y los muertos—es la misericordioso.” [Lc 6:36] San Lucas nos dice pie de la cruz y contemplar este misterio en su mandó llamar al sirviente que el había perdona- séptima obra espiritual de misericordia. Cada que lo más grande de la perfección divina se corazón de dolor, angustia y sufrimiento y apli- do y le impusó un castigo muy grave: “¡Siervo día debemos de tomar tiempo para rezar por los encuentra en la misericordia divina. carlo a nuestras vidas. Page 16 NOVEMBER 2006 The Angelus The Back Page

‘Flags’ a compelling, ‘Flicka’ tells warm graphic story of tale of teen, her famous WWII photo tough father “Flags of our Fathers” is a compelling World Warmhearted story set in contemporary Wyoming War II drama that tells the story behind the iconic about a strong-willed teen (Alison Lohman) who, photograph of six U.S. servicemen raising of the defying her tough but loving dad (Tim McGraw), flag on Iwo Jima, recounting both the battle to determines to tame a spirited wild mustang, ultimate- capture the Pacific island from the Japanese and ly bringing father and daughter closer together, even the home-front experiences of the three surviving as the former contemplates selling the financially flag-raisers (Jesse Bradford, Adam Beach and strapped family ranch. In adapting Mary O’Hara’s Ryan Phillippe) recruited into using their new book, director Michael Mayer makes some changes celebrity to help sell war bonds and boost national but remains faithful in spirit, imparting a sentimental morale. In adapting James Bradley (the son of one message about family bonds, youthful ambition, and of the men in the photo) and Ron Powers’ book, the passing of the American West. Minimal mildly director Clint Eastwood combines intense battle crass expressions and some minor peril involving a re-enactments — horrifying in their realism — marauding mountain lion which may upset very with outstanding performances to explore themes young viewers. The USCCB Office for Film & of heroism and the power of images to exploit and Broadcasting classification is A-I — general patron- inspire. Graphic images of combat violence and age. The Motion Picture Association of America rat- gore, as well as recurring rough and crude lan- ing is PG — parental guidance suggested. Some guage and profanity. The USCCB Office for Film material may not be suitable for children. & Broadcasting classification is A-III — adults. The film contains minimal mildly crass expressions The Motion Picture Association of America rating and some minor peril involving a marauding moun- is R — restricted. Under 17 requires accompany- tain lion which may upset very young viewers. The ing parent or adult guardian. The film contains graphic images of combat violence USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification and gore, as well as recurring rough and crude language is A-I — general patronage. The Motion Picture and profanity. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting Association of America rating is PG — parental guid- classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture ance suggested. Some material may not be suitable Association of America rating is R — restricted. Under 17 for children. requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. “Flags of Our Fathers” (Paramount) — USCCB Office “Flicka” (20th Century Fox) — USCCB Office for for Film & Broadcasting classification, A-III — adults. From “Flags of Film & Broadcasting classification, A-I — general Motion Picture Association of America rating, R — Our Fathers” patronage. Motion Picture Association of America rat- restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or ing, PG — parental guidance suggested. Some mate- adult guardian. rial may not be suitable for children. Women to admire, women to heed (and some advice on how to act) “Walking with Wisdom’s Daughters: Twelve “Walking with Wisdom’s Daughters” by suggesting that readers join her in a “sub- Although all of the women consider Celebrations and Stories of Women of Ulterino provides reflections and essays versive remembering” that speaks out themselves Catholic, much of the identifi- Passion and Faith” by Gloria Ulterino. Ave Maria Press (Notre Dame, Ind., 2006). 224 pp., about women saints, biblical figures and against injustice and is “suspicious of any cation seems to be cultural. Many do not $19.95. inspirational models. The author, inspired passage or story that flies in the face of a attend Mass or read Scripture, but prefer by the quotation “We had hoped ...” from liberating God.” devotions to particular saints, a number of “Hispanic Women: Prophetic Voice in the the Emmaus story, applies the idea to In “Hispanic Women,” Isasi-Diaz and whom have pre-Christian origins. Most Church” by Ada Maria Isasi-Diaz and Yolanda Tarango. University of Scranton Press women’s hopes for equal participation in Tarango deal with what the authors term feel that the church contributes to their (Chicago, 2006). 143 pp., $15. today’s church. “Hispanic women’s liberation theology,” oppression by sanctioning patriarchy. Utilizing extensive documentation from which is based on lived experience, rather Some of the theology in the book may be “The Authentic Catholic Woman” by major Scripture scholars and theologians, than abstract theories. Half of the book questionable, but the overall message — Genevieve Kineke. Servant Books (Cincinnati, 2006). 156 pp., $13.99. the book explores new ways of remember- consists of verbatim stories of women who that there are many voices within the ing and re-imaging women from the past, have attended the authors’ weekend church that need to be heard — should be Reviewed by Sister Mona Castelazo in particular those who resisted oppression retreats. Most accounts include oppression, taken seriously. Catholic News Service and crossed institutional boundaries. marginalization, sexism, poverty, and both Kineke, in “The Authentic Catholic Included with the biblical women are Eve, physical and psychological abuse. Each Woman,” uses literalized and confusing Three new books offer different insights Elizabeth and Lydia. Among the saints are chapter is summed up in Spanish. figures of speech, suggesting that women about Catholic women today. “Walking St. Catherine of Siena, St. Bridget of The book focuses mainly on women of “image” themselves after holy mother with Wisdom’s Daughters” by Gloria Ireland and St. Teresa of Avila. Mexican, Puerto Rican and Cuban descent church in all aspects. Specifically, she rec- Ulterino presents women to admire. The prayer services are detailed and life- from a variety of backgrounds in school- ommends that women mirror the sacra- “Hispanic Women” by Ada Maria Isasi- giving, complete with musical selections. ing, societal levels and ages. The authors ments: baptism by diligent housecleaning Diaz and Yolanda Tarango gives voice to The women are presented in a number of emphasize dialogue with oppressed analogous to cleansing the stain of original oppressed women. “The Authentic original ways, including first-person narra- women as a major step to working for a sin, reconciliation by repeated cleanings Catholic Woman” by Genevieve Kineke tives, an interview and a newspaper article. better future, through awareness and sub- coupled with forgiveness of mistreatments, suggests guidelines for women. Ulterino stresses basic Gospel values of sequent action toward changing present and the Eucharist by providing meals for inclusivity, companionship and solidarity, structures and realities. others.