Four Men to Be Ordained Priests June 11 by Sonia Mullally Priesthood Fi Rst Came to His Mind God Has Done in My Life

VOL. 80 NO. 6 WWW.BISMARCKDIOCESE.COM JUNE 2021 Dakota Catholic Action Reporting on Catholic action in western ND since 1941

With the heart of Jesus

Photos by Deacon Joe Krupinsky At transitional diaconate ordination last summer, Bishop Kagan with the four men to be ordained to the priesthood on June 11—(l-r) Ben Franchuk, Nick Vetter, Jacob Degele and Greg Hilzendeger. Four men to be ordained priests June 11 By Sonia Mullally priesthood fi rst came to his mind God has done in my life. It can be and Our Lady of Grace quite DCA Editor when he witnessed the faith on fi re summarized as being seven years simply as being leading people Four men will be ordained in Fr. Josh of learning to love Jesus. This to encounter the Person of Jesus to the holy priesthood on June Ehli, now process of learning to love Him Christ and to love them with His 11—the Solemnity of the Most rector of the has certainly been one of great Heart.” Sacred Heart of Jesus. It’s a most Cathedral consolation and encouragement, Rev. Mr. Ben Franchuk of the Holy but also one of suff ering and fi tting date for priestly ordination Ben’s vocation story began in Spirit. sacrifi ce.” as these four young men join high school in Dickinson while he Jacob was a After ordination, Jacob heads to their brother priests in fully was an avid sophomore in Minot to serve as parochial vicar at transforming their heart to Jesus participant in high school one of the parishes and as religion Christ and His Church. the SEARCH at Dickinson instructor at the Catholic high Deacons Jacob Degele, Ben program. Trinity and Rev. Mr. Jacob Degele school there. Franchuk, Greg Hilzendeger and He went on Fr. Ehli was Nick Vetter enter the brotherhood “I can’t wait to begin my to college, the chaplain there. of priests at the Mass of Holy assignment at Our Lady of Grace earned a While his faith was Ordination at the Cathedral of the and Bishop Ryan in Minot. It has degree in strengthening during high school, Holy Spirit beginning at 3 p.m. been beautiful praying for the mechanical Jesus fl ooded Jacob’s mind The Mass will be livestreamed parishioners and students for the engineering with thoughts of the priesthood. from the Cathedral for those who past few months. My heart is being and landed Serving morning Mass at the high Rev. Mr. Ben Franchuk would like to join online. prepared daily to love them with his dream job, school three days a week cemented This class of four is the largest the Heart of Christ.” all while hearing the whisper of the desire. During his fi rst year of ordained by Bishop Kagan since Jacob is ready to put his years the calling to the priesthood in the college at the University of North the group of six men ordained of formation and desire to serve very back of his mind. In prayer, Dakota, he decided to join the in 2013. All four men have been God’s people into practice. Ben never stopped asking for studying in seminary for several seminary. “I see my role at Bishop Ryan Continued on page 3 years and will now be assigned as “As I approach ordination, priests in the diocese. I am amazed at how quickly my seven years in formation Rev. Mr. Jacob Degele have gone by,” Jacob shared. A LOOK INSIDE Jacob, whose home parish is “Refl ecting on my time, leaves St. Joseph in Dickinson, said the me in awe about the work which

Parable of the Talents Pietà statue placed Bismarck St. Mary’s Academy s A life-size marble casting of tudents raised over $18,000 for Michelangelo’s Pietà will have a home the diocesan African Mission at the campus of St. Mary’s Central High water lter project ...... Page 6 School in Bismarck ...... Page 8 | JUNE 2021 2 Dakota Catholic Action Bishop David D. Kagan Summer blessings bestowed upon us and perhaps, at fi rst, we missed for them and all of our priests, Pope and the Church’s greatest FROM THE BISHOP them, but the blessings were ours, but also continue to pray that the missionary and the co-founders of nonetheless. Lord will send more men to His the Church of Rome. During our For a moment, let us look to the vineyard because we know that the just-concluded Easter Season, we blessings the Lord God is and will “harvest is great, but the laborers have come to know better these give to us during this month. The are few.” two great saints and hopefully, fi rst blessings come to us in the Thursday, June 24 is the we have come to appreciate even many beautiful feasts we celebrate Solemnity of the Nativity of St. more the Apostolic faith which in our sacred liturgy. The fi rst John the Baptist. Recall that only we have inherited. May we know, Sunday of June is the beautiful two saints in the entire history understand and live this faith with Solemnity of Corpus Christi of the Church have the days of their spirit of love and devotion! which gives us an opportunity to their births and deaths celebrated Since the summer season also adore Our Blessed Lord present universally: The Blessed Virgin begins in June, please do not Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity Mary and St. John the Baptist. The forget that even though schedules in the Blessed Sacrament. We do Church wants us to remember that may change and vacations may be so at Holy Mass and in solemn their births and earthly lives were taken, your obligation to worship procession; in truth, the Holy essential to God’s plan to redeem God faithfully every Sunday Eucharist is the source and us through the Incarnation of His remains the same. As Saint Teresa summit of our lives. Divine Son Jesus. of Calcutta said so beautifully: Bishop David D. Kagan This June 11, the Solemnity of The following Tuesday, June “God does not expect us to be the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, 29, we celebrate the Solemnity successful, He expects us to be As we arrive at the month the Lord God will bless our of SS. Peter and Paul, the fi rst faithful.” of June, we Catholics have so entire diocese with His gift of the much to be grateful to God for sacred priesthood as four men in our personal lives and in our are ordained to the priesthood lives as members of His Church. of Jesus Christ for the love and BISHOP’S SCHEDULE When we examine carefully and service of God and His Church. JUNE AND JULY 2021 prayerfully our own lives, we What a gift and what a response discover the many blessings we June 1-4 • Clergy Retreat, Assumption June 24 • Finance Council Meeting, from God to our fervent prayers have received. More often than Abbey, Richardton Center for Pastoral Ministry, for vocations! As these new priests not these blessings came to us in June 5 • Corpus Christi Vigil Mass Bismarck, 10 a.m. take up their priestly ministry the moments of our daily lives with Eucharistic Procession, June 26 • Opus Dei Mass, Cathedral among us, please continue to pray Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, of the Holy Spirit, Bismarck, Bismarck, 5 p.m. 10 a.m. June 7 • Women’s Care Center Meeting, June 28 • Big Smoke benefi t, Minot Chancery, Bismarck, 5 p.m. July 7 • Real Presence Radio interview, BISHOP IN ACTION June 9 • Mass and annual visit at 9 a.m. Marillac Manor, Bismarck, July 11 • Town and Country Mass, Fort 8:30 a.m. Rice, 11:30 a.m. June 10 • Real Presence Radio interview, July 16 • Cabinet Meeting, Chancery, 9 a.m. Bismarck 10 a.m. June 11 • Priestly Ordination, Cathedral July 16 • Mass for Cor Christi, University of the Holy Spirit, Bismarck, of Mary, 4:30 p.m. 3 p.m. July 22 • Mass for students attending June 17 • Mass for students attending Steubenville Rochester, BCYC, Church of the Ascension, Church of St. Joseph, Mandan, Bismarck, 8 a.m. 8 a.m. June 18 • Cabinet Meeting, Chancery, July 22 • First Profession Mass for Sr. Bismarck, 10 a.m. Mary Scholastica, Cathedral of June 20 • Confi rmation at the Church of the Holy Spirit, Bismarck, St. Agnes, Kenmare, 10:30 a.m. 10 a.m. June 21 • Seminarian Golf Tournament, July 25 • 60th Anniversary Mass at Prairie West, Mandan, 12 p.m. St. John the Apostle, Minot, June 23 • ND Catholic Conference 3 p.m. meeting, St. James Basilica, Jamestown, 10 a.m.

Staﬀ photo Bismarck resident, Marci Loomis, was honored as the 2021 recipient of the Caritas Award SOCIAL MEDIA from Catholic Charities North Dakota. Loomis was recognized for her leadership and contributions in service to the poor through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul—Cathedral of the Holy Spirit Conference. Board chairman, Steve Lies (left), and Bishop Kagan Visit our website at www.bismarckdiocese.com presented the award at a luncheon on May 11. Get news, photos, videos and more from around the diocese.

Dakota Catholic Action Reporting on Catholic action in western ND since 1941

Publisher: Most Reverend David D. Kagan, D.D., P.A., J.C.L., Bishop of Bismarck Editor: Sonia Mullally, [email protected] Center for Pastoral Ministry - Diocese of Bismarck USPS0011-5770 520 N. Washington Street, PO Box 1137, Bismarck, ND 58501-1137 Phone: 701-222-3035 Fax: 701-222-0269 Search “Bismarck Diocese” on YouTube for www.bismarckdiocese.com videos from the Church in western N.D. The Dakota Catholic Action (0011-5770) is published monthly except July Follow the Diocese on Twitter @BisDiocese by the Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1575, Bismarck, ND 58502-1575. and follow Bishop Kagan @VescovoDDK Periodical postage paid at Bismarck, ND, and additional mailing oﬃ ces. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to address below. Dakota Catholic Action, PO Box 1137, Bismarck, ND 58501-1137 Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ The Dakota Catholic Action is funded in part by the Bismarck Diocese Get status updates, photos, videos, and links and share them annual God’s Share Appeal. with your friends. JUNE 2021 Catholic Action Bringing Christ into everyday life Dakota Catholic Action | 3 Four men to be ordained priests June 11 Continued from page 1 among all the other aspects of the “Remaining close to the heart in Rome and is excited to be home God’s will to lead him on the right priesthood. I am also very much of Christ has been the strength to begin serving God’s people of path. looking forward to working at the that has made everything that’s the Bismarck Diocese. Academy. It is very important to happened during formation When asked what has sustained “For me, prayers are help the youth grow in their faith possible, and without this him throughout the years of indispensable, and their financial life and to have a hand in building relationship, I doubt I would formation, Ben said the obvious generosity is very appreciated. The their foundation. It will be an have made it a year. I have also answer to the question is prayer. longer I have been in seminary, awesome experience. Overall, I am been blown away by the prayerful the more I see my vocation as “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t looking forward to this next step support of all the people in the being for the people of God. Yes, for God calling me and sustaining in the journey and all the joys and diocese. There have been so many it is because God has given me me throughout the last seven challenges it will bring with it.” people praying for me, many I this vocation, but it is the people years. It has been a fantastic don’t even know, and that has of God that my vocation is to be journey of growth of knowledge Rev. Mr. Greg Hilzendeger been a great source of blessing,” lived for. To give myself as a father of myself and growing in a deeper Greg grew up attending Greg noted. to the people of the Diocese of relationship with God,” Ben Cathedral parish in Bismarck with Greg, along with Jacob and Bismarck is why I want to be a explained. “Secondly, the support his family. Ben, has spent the last few years in priest.” of the diocese is huge. Being able It was at the formation at the Kenrick-Glennon to come home for breaks and University of Nick will be parochial vicar Seminary in St. Louis. encounter the people I will be Mary when for the Pro-Cathedral of St. Mary serving as a priest always helped Greg began “It’s hard to believe the seven in Bismarck and chaplain for St. rejuvenate me to keep moving to get more years of seminary have gone by Mary’s Central High School. forward. It has been an awesome serious about already. Approaching ordination, “As I approach ordination, journey so far and I look forward his faith. He I am definitely excited to begin I have been working on many to serving as a priest for many was invited this new adventure which God of the logistic things that need years.” to Mass on has placed before me, but I to be done. God indeed wants am also aware of the immense With excitement and a feeling campus and to work through these normal Rev. Mr. Greg responsibility of the priesthood. I of readiness, and added humility, that’s where circumstances to form me as a Hilzendeger am grateful that God has chosen Ben is ready to serve God and the his love of priest.” He noted. “I feel a greater me for this exalted vocation, and people of the diocese. God began to spark the desire for poverty awaiting ordination as I I look forward to laying down my do not know how to be a priest “Do I think I am ready to be a something greater than himself. life in service of the people of the because I am not a priest yet, and shepherd for these people leading He also began going to adoration Diocese of Bismarck.” I do not know how it will be to be them to God? No. But at the same where the call to the priesthood Bishop Kagan has assigned a full-time teacher as I have never time I know, beyond a doubt, that first entered his mind and heart. Greg as parochial vicar for the been a teacher before. Yet, at the God is calling me to this vocation In prayer, Greg began asking God parishes of St. Joseph in Williston, same time, I experience God’s and that brings a lot of excitement what He wanted for him. St. John the Baptist in Trenton presence and loving care that He and readiness. I am also very “Prayer has been the constant and St. Boniface in Grenora. never abandons us, especially ready to move home and stay in foundation of my time in in time of need. I trust that God North Dakota for a long time.” seminary,” Greg explained. “I was “I am obviously looking forward to celebrating all the sacraments has formed me well through His Ben will be parochial vicar for blessed to begin my seminary as a priest,” Greg expressed. “It Church to begin this journey. I am the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in formation with the spirituality will be a privilege to serve as an excited to begin working and living Bismarck and assistant chaplain year in Denver. This was a year instrument of God’s grace and as a priest!” for St. Mary’s Academy (grades dedicated intensely on building love. Generally, I am excited to Beyond ordination day, Nick 6-8). the foundation of a prayerful simply begin the fullness of my is anticipating celebrating the “As I said, I am very excited relationship with the Lord, and vocation and give of myself in love sacraments with the faithful. to move back to North Dakota that year really set the tone for the to all those I am called to serve. “As a priest, I am looking permanently, I am also excited to entirety of my time in seminary. This is what God made me for, and forward to preaching and hearing meet, get to know and aid people The life of prayer really has made I’m ready to get started.” confessions. In a particular way, in their relationship with God— all the difference.” these two duties of a priest are the whether through the sacraments It was this relationship with Rev. Mr. Nick Vetter individual moments that people or just personal encounters. I God through prayer that kept the Nick’s first inkling for the experience the loving mercy of look forward to being able to idea of the priesthood alive in priesthood first came around the God. To be an instrument in say Mass and hear confessions, Greg’s heart. eighth grade these events is a great honor and when his privilege for me. As a father, I Godmother simply want people to experience suggested the same graces I have received to it. That OBITUARY know and trust Him as their savior comment and friend. Milwaukee, and an MSN from always stuck Sr. Dolores Like Jacob and Ben, Nick will be the University of Pennsylvania. with him. But part of the long-standing tradition Wagner, SCSC Sister was a staff nurse at Holy the calling Cross Hospital, Merrill, Wis.; St. of placing young priests among the Sister Dolores Wagner, a wasn’t exactly Joseph’s Hospital, Dickinson, students at our Catholic schools. Sister of Mercy of the Holy Cross, clear, until N.D.; St. Joseph’s Hospital, Rev. Mr. Nick Vetter “Being the chaplain of St. age 96, partway Breese, Ill.; and Director of died April through his Mary’s Central High School is Nursing Services, Breese, Ill. 26, 2021 at first year of college when he joined exciting for me. I really do look She was a nursing instructor Bell Tower the seminary. forward to being a teacher and and taught at Kaskaskia College, Residence getting to know all the students Centralia, Ill.; St. Cloud School “Throughout my years of Assisted and staff of the school. To be able of Nursing, St. Cloud, Minn.; formation, I have been sustained Living in to form and teach young people the University of Wisconsin, by God, the Church, and the Merrill, in the faith is an honor and sacred Oshkosh; Northeast WI Tech faithful,” Nick shared. “God has Wis. A duty that is important for the Institute, Green Bay. always been good to me, and over private Church. The youth of the Church Sister Dolores believed that my years of formation, I have funeral bring so much life and hope to the the most fulfilling aspect of her come to realize and receive more liturgy was Sr. Dolores Wagner, SCSC Church, so to be involved in this life was becoming a clinical deeply the goodness God intends held on May 1 and burial took work will help to form me as a new specialist where she could give for me. The Church, through her place at the St. Francis Catholic priest.” better patient care. Some of her priests and formation faculty, Cemetery in Merrill. greatest satisfactions included: have always been helpful and The Lord has chosen four more Betty Jane Louise was born seeing student nurses pass their fine men in Jacob, Ben, Greg and Aug. 12, 1924 in Wallace, Mich., supportive of me. Formation is not state boards; teaching English as Nick to proclaim His Word. They, to Fred and Minerva Wagner. something negative, but it is the a second language; and reducing and all our good and faithful She entered Holy Cross Convent Church helping the seminarian the fear in new expectant priests, need our prayers. in Merrill, Wis., on Feb. 26, 1948 to grow in freedom and virtue to mothers. “Please keep me in your prayers and professed her vows on Jan. be able to give their life for the She is survived by her family as all the faithful of the Diocese 15, 1951. Sister Dolores was in Church. In a particular way, I have of Holy Cross Sisters and of Bismarck are in mine,” Nick her 70th year of ministry at the noticed that the faithful give the associates, nieces, nephews and time of her death. unique support of their prayers, added. “God is doing good work cousins. Preceding her in death She attended Mercy financial generosity and their in the diocese and I am honored were her parents, sisters, Ellen, Hospital School of Nursing, example.” to be a priest for all of you good Joyce, Eleanor, and brother Oshkosh, Wis., earned a BSN Nick’s been studying at the people.” Norman. from Marquette University, Pontifical North American College 4 | Dakota Catholic Action JUNE 2021 Big Smoke benefi t for seminarians returns in Minot June 28 event features cook-off contest By Grace Fisher are 22 young men Special Contributor to the DCA from the diocese The Big Smoke—the studying for the competitive, meat smoking event priesthood. He created in 2017 by the Serra Club expects several of North Central North Dakota of them to be in as a benefi t to seminarians and Minot for the others in religious vocation in the Mass and to Bismarck Diocese—will rise again participate in Big from the ashes of the pandemic on Smoke activities. Monday, June 28 in Minot. A contingent Last held in 2019, the 2021 of monks from version will be in a new venue Assumption Abbey with some new features the club at Richardton also president, Mike Ruelle, feels will is expected to be add to its interest and draw more on hand for the Big patrons. Smoke. “We are grateful to North The event will Dakota State Fair offi cials for get under way at making it possible for us to stage 5 p.m. Brisket is the Big Smoke in the Flickertail the meat chosen Gardens on the State Fairgrounds for roasting competition. The Big Smoke event off ers an opportunity to visit and mingle with priests, deacons, seminarians and monks in this year. The layout of the facility an informal setting. Here, Fr. Brandon Wolf (center) visits with others in attendance at the 2018 event. The 2021 will allow traffi c to fl ow more Competitors will vocations fundraiser is set for June 28 at the N.D. State Fairgrounds in Minot. smoothly both inside and outside, provide samples of their brisket in the and at the same time enable sample the sauce as well as the $35 per adult and $80 per family hope of obtaining guests’ votes for competitors to roast their entries brisket. that includes parents with children the People’s Choice Award. Ribs as competition judges and patrons Also new this year is a door up to age 18. For tickets, contact and pulled pork will be served for move among them,” Ruelle said. prize—donated from I. Keating Ruelle at 701-839-4365 or 701- the dinner, along with the usual Members of the Minot Knights Furniture World in Minot—of an 340-2915, or Karen Johnson at accompaniments and beverages. of Columbus, longtime supporters outdoor patio set that includes a 701-240-5561. Meats for the Big Smoke come of seminarians, will assist Serra sofa, loveseat and two chairs. • Cash prizes of $250 for fi rst Club members in the competition. from Valley Custom Meats in Minot. Event details include: place and $150 for runner-up in “The Big Smoke is a great both judges and people’s choice A new and separate entry in the • Currently, 10 teams are opportunity for people to visit with categories in the meat competition competition this year is the sauce committed to the competition. priests, deacons, seminarians and will be awarded. Cash prizes in the that accompanies the meat. Ruelle Others interested in forming a monks in an informal setting,” sauce competition will be $200 emphasized the sauce must be team may contact Tom Magnuson Ruelle added. and $100. homemade; commercial sauces at 701-509-4916 or 701-389-0572. A Mass for religious vocations In past years, attendance at the will not be allowed. Entry is open The entry fee is $100 per team; will be celebrated at 12:15 p.m. at Big Smoke has been close to 400, to anyone interested and is not entry in the sauce competition is St. Leo the Great. According to Fr. and the event has garnered up to limited to the teams competing $25. Jordan Dosch, vocations director $11,000 for seminarians and other in the major event. Judges will • Tickets to the Big Smoke are for the diocese, there currently religious groups. genuine. together. “I truly feel that everyone who works at Benedictine-Bismarck abides by the scripture, ‘Let all be received by Christ,’ meaning the staff genuinely care for all residents at all points in their life. Employees are respectful to the families and residents. They truly welcome the dignity of the person.”

FATHER MARK AUNE Family Member of Current Resident

Formerly St. Gabriel’s Community

Assisted Living • Basic Care • Short-Term Care/Rehab • Skilled Nursing 4580 Coleman St. Bismarck, ND 58503 • benedictinebismarck.org • 701-751-5678 JUNE 2021 Dakota Catholic Action | 5 Covering priests in prayer Seven Sisters Apostolate aims to strengthen the Church By Sonia Mullally Fellow prayer warrior, Dione DCA Editor Bohl is the anchoress for the group The founder of the Seven Sisters that prays for Fr. Ken Phillips. Apostolate said the Lord chose Prior to that, the parishioner at to invite Minot’s St. Therese, Church of the her into Little Flower, was praying for the His work of former pastor, Fr. Fred Harvey for intentionally two years. praying About four years ago, Dione was for the approached to be part of the Seven strengthening Sister Apostolate and it was an and sanctity easy, “yes.” of priests “It’s about trust in the Holy back in 2011. Now, ten years later, Spirit that we understand that the apostolate has spread to six prayer for priests is essential,” she continents, 23 countries and all 50 said. “They need our prayers for states. the big tasks they deal with daily.” The apostolate began in the What stood out to Dione was Archdiocese of St. Paul and the statement by the apostolate Minneapolis. The founder, Janette that describes their mission: A Howe, has recruited women all call to strengthen the Church by over the world to sign on for a holy ensuring that a holy hour is prayed hour each day of the week for the each day of the week for the sole sole intention of a specific priest intention of a specific priest or or bishop. Each priest is to have bishop—a “holy wasting” (cf. Mt. seven women praying for him for 26:10) or lavishing of prayer for at least one hour each day of the his deeper conformity to Christ. week. Janette discerned in prayer “What stood out to me,” she that bishops need intercessors added, “is that holy wasting of morning, noon and night—21 yourself for your parish and parish women praying for him each week. priest. There’s a holy purpose for Parishioner of Minot’s Our Lady that hour you spend strengthening of Grace, Bev Cushing, is making the Church and the holy it her mission to accomplish this foundation. It’s a gift of ourselves goal of finding 21 prayer warriors, to this mission.” as she calls them, for Bishop Father Bruce Krebs, currently Submitted photo Kagan. Prompted by the Holy pastor of Our Lady of Grace in For his retirement on July 1, Fr. Bruce Krebs was presented with a quilt by Seven Sisters Spirit, Bev is seeking a group from Minot, thinks both parties—the Apostolate made by Bev Cushing, Parishioner of Minot’s Our Lady of Grace. All the sisters’ across the diocese to cover him in sister in prayer and the priest— names who have prayed for him the last three years are embroidered on the back. prayer. benefit from the Seven Sisters Currently all priests in Minot Apostolate. He certainly is even more than lay people because that sisters discern to pray for a are “covered”—those in parishes strengthened by the prayers and the evil one wants to subvert us priest/bishop. In June, around and a few retired priests. Included he has been told by the women even more from helping lay people the feast day of the Sacred Heart is Fr. Jadyn Nelson, president of that it’s fulfilling for them. by bringing them to God,” Fr. of Jesus, sisters make their commitment to pray a holy Bishop Ryan Catholic Schools, He hadn’t heard about the Bruce said. hour, one day a week, for one who Bev prays for. Bev used apostolate prior to being assigned Bev can see the benefits of the hour in front of the tabernacle in to teach in the Catholic school there in 2007. He’s grateful to be apostolate and agrees that priests adoration, for a priest/bishop for system in Minot, and her children covered in prayer by the Seven need our prayers now more than one year. graduated from there, so she’s Sisters and was very much in favor ever. “When you start praying for always felt a connection. She’s the of the idea, acknowledging the someone, you start seeing them in Generally, women join by being group coordinator—referred to need. a different light,” she explained. “I asked by another sister. “I’m always on the lookout, especially as anchoress—for Fr. Jadyn and “We definitely need it these days see priests grow in holiness. They in adoration,” explained Dione. “I has been praying for him for three to stay true to the call amidst all have a tough job.” feel like I’m led by the Holy Spirit. years. the worldly temptations to live for Father Bruce is set to retire on I ask the Holy Spirit to reveal to “When I decided to pray for Fr. oneself,” he said. “It’s always been July 1 after 43 years as a priest me who might be willing to answer Nelson a few years ago, I thought encouraging and supportive for for the diocese. He’s not sure if the call to participate.” I would be doing such a wonderful me to know people are praying for there will be a Seven Sisters group thing for him, but I’ve realized that me and sacrificing for my sake.” praying for him in retirement, Dione added that simplicity is the biggest draw—it is for her when you pray for God’s chosen, He said that when people pray but he’d welcome it. “Any priest and for most women she knows. He blesses you,” Bev said. “God for priests, they are extending the knowing that someone is praying Most women, moms especially, are has blessed my family beyond benefit to the lay people that the for him in this way will be a over scheduled. To commit to the measure.” priest serves. “Priests are tempted spiritual and emotional boost for him,” Fr. Bruce added. group, you choose a day, the hour The group praying for him and stay with it for a year. Most Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions recently presented him with a groups have substitutes available for June and July retirement gift of a handmade for backup. quilt. Bev made the quilt and Most women find their own included all the Sisters’ names path on how to spend the hour. Intention for evangelization - who have prayed for him the last The group provides suggestions The beauty of marriage three years embroidered on the and prayer cards. Sometimes Let us pray for young people back. a priest will reach out to the who are preparing for marriage Father Adam Maus has been anchoress with a special intention. with the support of a Christian appointed the new pastor of Our “He knows we’re out there,” Dione community: may they grow Lady of Grace beginning July added. in love, with generosity, 1. The Seven Sisters currently Anyone interested in more faithfulness and patience. praying for Fr. Bruce will be information or willing to join a “transferred” to Fr. Maus. If Seven Sisters Apostolate group Universal intention - enough women come forward, Fr. to pray for a diocesan priest Social friendship Bruce will have a group praying or Bishop Kagan, can reach We pray that, in social, for him again in retirement. out by sending an email to While it would be ideal to have [email protected] economic and political all priests covered in prayer, the or calling Kathy at 701-389-2253. situations of conflict, we may primary goal is to have parish More information on the Seven be courageous and passionate priests covered first. Women are Sisters Apostolate can be found at architects of dialogue and asked to commit to the apostolate sevensistersapostolate.org. friendship. for one year. May is the month 6 | Dakota Catholic Action JUNE 2021 Using talents to help others Academy students’ efforts benefit African Mission As a result of the incredible efforts of our St. Mary’s Academy students, $18,750 was donated to the Diocese of Bismarck African Mission, to purchase water filtration systems for families in Kenya. Through the creativity and ingenuity of the 7th grade students, plus 28 8th grade students who volunteered, more than 900 families in Kenya will have water filter kits and clean water for many years to come. The students presented the money from this Parable of Talents project to Bishop Kagan at the weekly Academy Mass on April 28. Academy religion teacher, Duane Eichele led this project, inspired by the bible story of the Parable of the Talents. The project uses Jesus’ teachings as a springboard to affect change and make a difference in the world by paying it forward. Bishop Kagan and Chuck Reichert, director of the Bismarck African Mission, with the St. Mary’s Academy students, staff, clergy after Mass Here’s how it works: with the on April 28 where they presented the money from their “Parable of the Talents” project. cooperation of an anonymous - Math: students created a donor, each student was given a financial plan, recording expenses talent ($10) and a period of time in and income. Math class also which they will use their creativity counted all the incoming money, to increase the talent/money with verified the totals and documented which they’ve been entrusted. At the results for transparency. the appointed time, each student - Religion: students learned was summoned to give an account about the social teachings of the of what they did with their talent/ Catholic Church, as well as the money and return it, as was Works of Mercy. They created a required in the Parable of the promotional poster that captured Talents. the purpose of why they did the The variety of projects was project. incredible including bake sales, - Science: students designed arts/crafts, car washes, and so and tested their own water St. Mary’s Academy students presented a check to Bishop Kagan and Fr. David Morman for many other items were made, or the Bismarck African Mission water filter systems distribution and training in Kenya. filters. This taught them to use services were provided to raise their critical thinking skills and these funds. The hope of the problem-solving abilities to create project is that the students would the most effective design. be good stewards and return more than they were given. - Social Studies: for two weeks, the students had to think like a The other amazing part of this geographer looking at Kenya, project is how it connects all areas East Africa (where the Bismarck of education. Each teacher got Mission is located) through many involved: lenses—political geography, - English Language Arts: government, physical geography, students created a business plan history, culture and resources. taking a critical look at their idea Eichele explained, “There and to identify what set their idea is so much more to this story apart from the others. They also than the money we raised. I kept a reflection journal recording was witness to the joy in their the steps they took to launch and eyes, the enthusiasm in their execute their plan, as well as how voices, the energy in their pace Father David Morman who serves the diocese at the Bismarck African Mission in Kenya, it went and any items they would East Africa, visited with the students at the St. Mary’s Academy in April about the and the charity in their hearts. change in the future. programs available to the more than 450 AIDS orphans served by the Mission. Our students were inventors, - Health: students not only innovators and entrepreneurs. The young people to place their hearts ladies and men. As in the words of learned the connection between stories, reflections, and life lessons in the hands of God…and get out the parable, ‘Well done, good and water and health but kept a they shared were truly amazing. I of the way. It is such a grace to faithful servants!’” journal of their own water was reminded yet again of a lesson have the opportunity to be in the —Submitted information consumption. I learned many years ago—invite presence of these virtuous young

PRAY FOR THE PRIESTS, RELIGIOUS, DEACONS SERVING OUR DIOCESE AND THOSE IN FORMATION AND LAY MINISTERS An invitation from the Bismarck-Mandan Serra Club June 1 Fr. Mark Aune June 9 Fr. Paul Becker June 16 Seminarians & Religious June 22 Fr. Al Bitz June 2 Deacon Ray Grabar June 10 Deacon Lonnie in Formation June 23 Deacon Doug Helbing June 3 Seminarian Logan Grabowska June 17 Sisters of Spirit of Life June 24 Sr. Mary Ruth Kayute, Obrigewitch June 11 Fr. Gary Benz Convent, Mandan OSB June 4 All Lay Ministers June 12 Deacon James Haga June 18 Fr. Dan Berg June 25 Fr. Dominic Bouck June 5 Fr. Anthony Baker, OSB June 13 All Lay Ministers June 19 Deacon Harvey Hanel June 26 Seminarian Josh Hill June 6 Br. Samuel Larson, SDS June 14 Br. Benet Tvedten, OSB June 20 Br. Bertrand June 27 Msgr. Jame Braaten June 7 All Liturgical Ministers June 15 Sr. Stephanie Dolyniuk, Vogelweide, OSB June 28 Deacon Ronald Hogan June 8 Sr. Grace Dahmus, OSB OSB June 21 Seminarian Ben June 29 Sr. Mariah Dietz, OSB Wanner June 30 Sr. Mary Walker, OSB JUNE 2021 Dakota Catholic Action | 7 Dickinson family raises funds for African Mission Lenten project helps AIDS orphans By Sonia Mullally which easily could have canceled DCA Editor our annual Lenten project. Clara Parents often look for ways to had the courage to make phone make their children appreciate calls and gladly did so. She made their own abundant blessings call after call explaining the and make them aware of those mission and how she was trying less fortunate. Dickinson family, to collect money for animals for Jenetta and Rick Padilla and kids in Kenya (talking to people their four children, have found “in person” on the other end as the Bismarck African Mission well as explaining the mission to a perfect place to convey that many voice mails). She had hopes message and help those in need. on being able to donate a pregnant Since 2013, the Padilla family heifer, and she was thrilled has done a Lenten project for the when she was able to donate two Jen and Rick Padilla’s children, Joseph, Thomas, Daniel and Clara, have been doing a family specifi c needs of the more than heifers, as well as 27 goats and 171 Lenten project since 2013 to benefi t the Bismarck African Mission 450 AIDS orphans served by the chickens!” diocesan Mission in Kenya, East Due to the great response last family, we’d make this our fi lters; 2020 – 171 chickens, 27 Africa. year, the family did the same family’s project,” Jenetta added. goats and two heifers; 2021 – 115 “Each year since our oldest was this year asking for donations “I make a fundraiser-type form chickens, 15 goats and one heifer. in fi rst grade and Clara was a baby, for chickens, goats or a pregnant with pictures from our mission “I encourage others to join us, our family has chosen an African heifer. The success of the project to show what we’re collecting even if they only ask a few people,” Mission Lenten Project,” Jenetta for the last nine years keeps the and to track donors and their Jenetta said. “Every donation explained. “We’ve contacted the family motivated in their eff orts. donations. Each year has looked a helps.” organizers of the African Mission “I really want to help our little diff erent, depending on the For more information about to fi nd something that they would children be aware of those less ages and personalities of the kids. the diocesan African Mission, go like for the children if they had fortunate than we are (fi nancially) One year, for example, one of our to bismarckdiocese.com/african- the funds, something that wasn’t and appreciate what we have,” children demonstrated the sample mission. ordinarily covered by the annual Jenetta said. “We aren’t traveling water fi lter while another did the talking. Last year, our youngest Thomas Padilla mission appeal.” to Africa to either help or to personalized The Padilla children were on witness third-world poverty personalized it by drawing Africa the fundraising board from the very start. fi rsthand, so this is a little way we and the animals in order to show message by can both help our kids’ awareness people.” drawing Africa “Clara excitedly started and the animals. asking people as soon as she and help the children in Kenya. Jenetta estimates the kids have was old enough to ask. She and We have also found that many raised approximately $2,000- her brothers (Daniel, Joseph, people like to help when given a $3,500 each year since 2013. and Thomas) explained their simple opportunity to give.” With those funds, the family ‘mission’ and asked for donations Making this diff erent than a equates their donation to specifi c from people at our parish, from usual school fundraiser was key. areas of the African Mission made neighbors and people down our When potential donors can see available to the AIDS orphans road, from the business across photos of the children in Africa served by the Mission. Donations the road and our family,” Jenetta and hear their story through the have included: in 2013 - 25 goats, expressed. Padilla children, it’s easy to see 83 chickens, and 300 pairs of The pandemic of 2020 changed The pandemic of 2020 the need. One year, the children underwear; 2014 - tuition for 17 children to attend day school; the project changed the project due to social received a water fi lter kit from due to social distancing. the diocese to demonstrate how it 2015 - 200 solar lights to read distancing, so and do homework; 2016 - 200 “Clara had just started asking works before asking for donations. Clara Padilla sweatshirts and 55 mattresses; spent time people when the social distancing “I fi gured other kids 2017: 368 solar lights; 2018 – 67 calling potential started,” Jenetta noted. “We could participated in fundraising water fi lters; 2019 – more water donors instead of no longer ask people in person projects, so as a homeschooling in-person visits.

and Gumbo Flats Town Country Ranch Celebration 917 County Road 135 Fort Rice, ND 58554 July 11, 2021

Registration begins: 11 a.m. Hosted by Matthew and Blessing of animals, land Lisa Rebenitsch along with and machinery begins: Father Todd Kreitinger, 11:30 a.m. Father Brandon Wolf and the Mass with Bishop Kagan: parishioners of Saint Martin in Noon Huff, ND and Saint Anthony in Lunch and entertainment: Saint Anthony, ND. 1 p.m. All are welcome–young and old, from town and country!

Register at bismarckdiocese.com/townandcountry or call Amanda at 204-7205. Registration required for an accurate meal count. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, umbrellas and whatever you need to make it an enjoyable day outside. 8 | Dakota Catholic Action JUNE 2021 Exact casting of Michelangelo’s Pietà coming to Diocese of Bismarck The Diocese of Bismarck and Catholic locations. Arte Divine LLC, have announced “We are honored and elated that a life-size marble casting of that Bismarck residents, Cathedral Michelangelo’s Pietà will be placed parishioners, and Light of Christ at the Our Lady of Victory Chapel benefactors, Ken and Marilyn on the campus of St. Mary’s Keller, have sponsored this Central High School in Bismarck, donation, which will serve as a after being on display for several perpetual gift to the local church months at the Cathedral of and the community at large. the Holy Spirit. The Carrara It’s final placement at our local marble casting of Michelangelo’s Catholic high school will serve masterpiece, Pietà, will be the to enhance the faith and an 52nd of only 100 authorized to be appreciation of the arts for our created and placed. students for years to come,” said Five hundred years ago, Fr. Joshua Ehli, Rector of the Michelangelo unveiled what would Cathedral. come to be regarded as one of “We are very grateful to the the world’s greatest masterpieces Keller family for sponsoring of inspired art and perhaps the this wonderful gift. It is such an most beautiful sculpture ever inspirational, iconic image of created. The Pietà was both our Christian faith, and I know the consummate expression of it will bring hope, healing, and Michelangelo’s artistic abilities compassion to all who come to and an embodiment of the divine witness its great beauty,” said Fr. inspiration that guided his work. Ehli. This famous work of art “We are truly grateful to His depicts the body of Jesus on the Excellency David D. Kagan, lap of his mother Mary after the Bishop of Bismarck, and the Keller crucifixion. The Pietà is the only family for the opportunity to place piece of art Michelangelo ever Michelangelo’s masterpiece at St. signed. Arte Divine has recreated Mary’s Central High School,” said Michelangelo’s masterpiece, Pat Kerivan, Arte Divine Director Pietà, in cast marble using a mold of Sales. derived from the original Pietà, Bishop Kagan celebrated the c1498-99, located at St. Peter’s official unveiling and blessing Submitted photo Basilica, Vatican City, Rome. This ceremony of the Pietà at the before this truly moving work of will never have the opportunity posthumous Pietà is a precise “1 to Cathedral on May 22, following art. to travel to Saint Peter’s Basilica 1” casting that is faithful in every the vigil Mass. It will remain at the “It is Arte Divine’s mission to and personally experience the detail to Michelangelo’s original. Cathedral through summer 2021, place Michelangelo’s Pietà in 100 transcendent beauty of this These exquisite castings are being after which it will be permanently sacred and secular settings around divinely inspired work that is acquired by generous corporate placed at St. Mary’s Central High the world. In so doing, we hope Michelangelo’s Pietà,” Mr. Kerivan and private benefactors, who then School. The faithful of the diocese to elevate the hearts and minds added. donate these legacy gifts to select are invited to come and pray of millions of the faithful who —Submitted information UPCOMING EVENTS g Seminarian golf tourney June 21 website at hotrnd.com/category/news- July 19-23 for children grade 5 through for the organization Home On The The 7th Annual Seminarian Scholarship events for details. age 14. Volunteer counselors are Range (HOTR). HOTR is a nonprofit Golf Tournament hosted by the needed. Adult counselors (18 years old organization which helps abused, Catholic Foundation of Western North g Big Smoke BBQ cook off June 28 or older) will supervise campers and neglected and traumatized teenage Dakota will be held Monday, June 21 at The Serra Club of North Central help where needed. Junior counselors boys and girls. Tickets are available at the Prairie West Golf Course in Mandan. North Dakota present the Big Smoke (16-17 years old) will help the team the gate. For more information, go to Check in and lunch begins at noon BBQ cook off on Monday, June 28 as needed, such as clean up lead/play hotrnd.com. with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Lunch at Flickertail Gardens on the State games, work with crafts, etc. For more and dinner are provided. Cost is $500 Fairgrounds, Minot. A Mass for religious information, contact Bobbi Shegrud at g THIRST conference Oct. 30 per team or $125 per person. Register vocations will be celebrated at 12:15 701-720-3998. Join us Oct. 30 at the Bismarck Event by June 17 online at cfwnd.org/golf or p.m. at St. Leo the Great. The event, Center for THIRST 2021. This exciting contact Mike Bichler at 701-471-0985 starting at 5 p.m., features the cooking g Champion’s Ride is Aug. 7 and free event has something for or [email protected]. talents of priests, deacons, and monks Everyone’s invited to the 65th all ages and backgrounds. Featured from across the diocese. The public is Champion’s Ride Match on Saturday, keynote speakers include Dr. Ray g Mother-daughter days invited to enjoy food, fun and prizes. Aug. 7 at 1 p.m. (MT). The Match is Guarendi and Matt Fradd. The The Franciscan Sisters of Dillingen in Tickets to the Big Smoke are $35 per celebrating its 7th year as a sanctioned Diocesan Youth Conference (for Hankinson, N.D. invite you to join them adult and $80 per family that includes “extreme bronc riding” event by students in grades 6-12) will be held for their annual “Mother-Daughter parents with children up to age 18. the Professional Rodeo Cowboy in conjunction with the conference Days.” Two sessions are offered this For tickets, contact Mike Ruelle at 701- Association (PRCA). Thirty-two again this year. New this year is summer June 17 -19 and July 26-28. 839-4365 or 701-340-2915 or Karen cowboys ride a bronc and compete in Vacation Bible School for younger The theme is “The Joy of the Lord is My Johnson at 701-240-5561. the long go round. The top 12 highest children. Watch for more details at Strength.” It’s a chance to spend some scores advance to the short-round bismarckdiocese.com/thirst. General quality time together, have a little fun, g Town and Country Celebration to compete for the title and money. questions can be directed to Amanda nourish your spiritual life and even July 11 The prize money that a cowboy at [email protected] learn a bit about the life of the sisters. You are invited to the annual Town and wins counts towards their earnings or 701-204-7205 or Chris at ckraft@ To register, contact Sr. Jean Louise, Country Celebration on Sunday, July to qualify for the Wrangler National bismarckdiocese.com or 701-204-7208. OSF by text at 701-208-1245 or email 11. The event will be held at the at the Finals in Las Vegas. The Champions [email protected]. Gumbo Flats Ranch, 917 County Road Ride not only has a rich history of 135 near Fort Rice. The day will begin cowboys, but also as a major fundraiser g HOTR golf scramble June 27 with a blessing of land and equipment The 4th Annual Dakota Scramble for at 11:30 a.m. with Mass celebrated by Home On The Range (HOTR) will be Bishop Kagan at noon. All are invited to Protecting Our Children on Sunday, June 27 at Bully Pulpit Golf participate in lunch and entertainment The Diocese of Bismarck is firmly committed to the health and protection Course in Medora. HOTR is a licensed after Mass. The event is hosted by of our children, young people and vulnerable adults. With the hope of resident care facility for teenage youth Matthew and Lisa Rebenitsch, with Fr. healing the pain and suffering from sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, we in western North Dakota under the Todd Kreitinger and Fr. Brandon Wolf encourage anyone who has suffered from this abuse to please come forward auspices of the Diocese of Bismarck. and the parishioners of the Church of and let us know. To report allegations of sexual abuse, please contact: Dale All proceeds from the tournament will St. Martin in Huff and St. Anthony in St. Eberle, Chancellor, Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1575, Bismarck, ND 58502- benefit the HOTR spiritual program. Anthony. Register at bismarckdiocese. 1575. Phone: 701.223.1347 or 1.877.405.7435. Email the victim assistance Registration begins at 8 a.m. MT with com/townandcountry or call Amanda coordinator, Joyce McDowall, at [email protected]. a shotgun start at 10 a.m. Prizes will at 701-204-7205. Registration is be awarded on every hole. Fee is $400 required for an accurate meal count. Code of Conduct for a team of four golfers. This includes The Catholic Church must be exemplary: Clergy, staff, whether diocesan golf and cart, pin prizes, hole and g Volunteers needed for camp in or parish, and volunteers are held accountable for their behavior. To enable team prizes and dinner. Hole and prize Mandaree the highest level of accountability, there must be a clear and unambiguous sponsors are also welcome. Register by Christian Life Camp will be held at St. definition of appropriate behavior. To this end, this Code of Conduct is defined June 11 by contacting Josh Helvik at Anthony Church in Mandaree on July for the Diocese of Bismarck and it provides a foundation for implementing [email protected] or go to the HOTR 12-16 for children in grades 1-4 and effective and enforceable standards for all personnel. View the Code of Conduct at http://www.bismarckdiocese.com. JUNE 2021 Dakota Catholic Action | 9

Saint Joseph procession

Submitted photos

An image of St. Joseph, Patron of the Church, was recently processed from St. Joseph’s Church in Mandan to the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bismarck, where the image was permanently installed. The 6-mile procession began at St. Joseph’s Church on the evening of April 30. Upon arrival at the Cathedral, the Litany of St. Joseph was recited, followed by Night Prayer. On May 1 (Feast of St. Joseph the Worker), the day began at the Cathedral with a rosary, Mass, a presentation on St. Joseph by local Catholic speaker Tom Perna and installation of the image in the Marian Chapel. The event was an initiative of the Bismarck-Mandan Troops of Saint George and the Knights of Columbus in honor of the Year of St. Joseph.

CLERGY APPOINTMENTS Bishop of Bismarck David D. Kagan, D.D., P.A., J.C.L.

The following appointments, with the permission of Bishop David D. Kagan, are eff ective July 1, 2021.

The Reverend Father John G. Guthrie, at the request of the Cardinal Archbishop of Chicago and Saturday, October 30 with the consent of the Diocesan A free one day Eucharistic Conference at the Bismarck Event Center Bishop to be a faculty member to include keynote and breakout speakers and the celebration for Mundelein Fr. John G. Guthrie of Vigil Mass with Bishop David Kagan Major Seminary, Mundelein, Featured speakers: Illinois.

Matt Fradd is the creator and host of the “Pints With Aquinas” podcast. He is the The Reverend Father Stephen author and coauthor of several books including, Does God Exist? A Socratic Dialogue on O. Folorunso the Five Ways of Thomas Aquinas. Matt earned his undergraduate and graduate degrees in to be Pastor of philosophy from Holy Apostles College & Seminary which also awarded him an honorary St. Pius V, New doctorate. He lives in Steubenville, Ohio, with his wife Cameron and their four kids. Salem, St. Mary Queen of Peace, Almont and St. Martin, Center. Dr. Ray Guarendi is a Catholic father of ten adopted children, a clinical Fr. Stephen O. Folorunso psychologist, author, professional speaker, and national radio and television host. His radio show, “The Dr. Is In” can be heard on over 440 stations and Sirius XM channel 130. His TV show, “Living Right With Dr. Ray” can be seen on EWTN Global Catholic The Reverend Father Jolly Network and is aired in 140 countries. George to be Parochial Vicar for St. Peter, Fort Yates, The event will also include the Diocesan Youth Conference St. Elizabeth, Cannon Ball, and a special Vacation Bible School for the youngest attendees. St. James, Porcupine, St. Opportunities for adoration of our Lord and confessions will be available for all. Philomena, Selfridge and Fr. Jolly George Sacred Heart, Registration will open August 2. For regularly updated information visit Solen. bismarckdiocese.com/thirst and bismarckdiocese.com/youthconference. 10 | Dakota Catholic Action JUNE 2021 Balancing Church & State CHRISTOPHER DODSON Legislative 2021 session summary

Legislators introduced over partner with an abortion provider substance abuse treatment in exposed 900 bills and resolutions during on anything. underserved areas. private the 2021 legislative session. The • Defeated tax credits for • Approved an expansion to schools and churches to old claims North Dakota Catholic Conference contributions to a scholarship the tax credit for contributions of child sexual abuse without doing followed about 100 of them. granting organization to help to nonpublic schools and private the same for public schools and Here is a look at the work of the lower-income students. A bill universities. government agencies. legislature on just some of the bills to provide an income tax credit • Protected religious freedom • Created a new childhood and resolutions. directly to parents with children in during emergency orders. education grant for four-year olds. nonpublic schools also failed. • Protected religious freedom • Rejected a proposal to create The legislature: • Put off , for now, building a for persons in state institutions a guardianship commission. • Defeated a bill to mandate new State Hospital in Jamestown such as prisons, jails and the State Many legislators felt the plan was insurance coverage for fertility to replace the old and rapidly Hospital. premature. treatments, some of which are declining facilities there. • Allowed for a process to remove • Authorized the Ethics contrary to Catholic teaching and • Defeated several proposals restrictions placed by a guardian Commission to give advisory threaten human life. However, to expand gambling in the state, on visiting and communicating opinions. the legislature might study particularly sports gambling and with a ward. • Secured access to residents implementing such a mandate internet poker. • Clarifi ed and hopefully fi nally of a long-term care facility by during the interim. • Turned back a plan to legalize settled questions concerning what an essential caregiver during an • Provided new services for youth recreational marijuana in North church property local governments emergency. at risk of homelessness. Dakota. can tax. • Targeted downsizing the Life • Passed a fairness in sports bill • Added 10 slots to the corporate • Protected the free speech and Skills Transition Center in favor of requiring that only biological girls guardianship program run by religious rights of students and more community services. can participate in girls’ sports, only Catholic Charities of North Dakota. student organizations on the state- The North Dakota Catholic to have the bill vetoed by Governor • Merged the Department run college campuses. Conference appreciates all the Burgum. The Senate failed to of Human Services and the • Made known that North calls, emails and letters sent to override the veto. Department of Health. Dakota’s ratifi cation of the Equal legislators and the governor this • Trounced a bill to legalize • Rejected a chance to create Rights Amendment had expired. year. physician-assisted suicide by a vote education empowerment grants • Prohibited municipalities from There is still more to come. In of 9 yeas and 85 nays. that could be used by public or enacting paid family leave policies addition to needing to regather for • Increased funding for county- nonpublic school students to and zoning ordinances relating to redistricting, the legislature will run guardianship programs. help cover the costs of tuition or fi rearms. It also limited their ability need to decide what to do with • Faced an unprecedented bill to supplemental needs. to assist federal law enforcement millions of dollars in COVID-19 mandate priests violate the seal of • Authorized the Department with enforcing some gun laws. relief money coming from the confession. The bill, however, was of Human Services to assume the • Changed to a study a bill federal government. The federal withdrawn following an outpouring refugee resettlement program that would have allowed 20 new government has not yet set the of opposition from Catholics and following the collapse of Lutheran weapons to be brought without rules for using this money. Stay non-Catholics alike. Social Services. permission into churches and other tuned and pray for our elected • Prohibited institutions of the • Defeated a bill to allow someone public gatherings. leaders and public servants. North Dakota University System to use deadly force even when • Turned a paid family-leave plan from partnering with abortion g Dodson serves as executive director not necessary to protect human into a study and then defeated the providers. The Governor vetoed a of the N.D. Catholic Conference, the life. However, the legislature then study. section of the bill. The remaining oﬃ cial liaison for the dioceses of Fargo passed a diff erently worded bill • Expanded the income tax credit sections require that any institution and Bismarck in matters of public that might allow the same use of for employment of individuals with receiving the popular matching policy. such force. developmental disabilities. grants for foundations cannot • Provided grants to expand • Rejected a bill that would have Guest Columnist SAMANTHA NELSON Max’s Mission brings comfort to grieving parents Being a mother is one of the their pregnancy, the Steckler’s reignited the desire in my heart to the grieving process. greatest callings in life that I can were informed that there start a mission dealing with the loss We hope that by honoring the life imagine. Every child is a miracle, a were complications with their of a child. That is when I reached of every child lost early, we could, gift from God. pregnancy, and that their son out to the Diocese of Bismarck for in some small way, help facilitate Sadly, sometimes bringing a would not survive outside of help starting Max’s Mission. the healing of broken hearts and child into the world is not always the womb for very long. Thirty- One of the ways we accomplish remember the joy that these babies easy, nor is it always successful. In six weeks into the pregnancy, the goals of Max’s Mission is giving brought to those who will always May of 2017, I felt the Lord place Maximilian Pio Steckler was born. boxes to those dealing with the loss love and remember them. upon my heart a desire to start a Every parish in the Diocese mission for those who have lost a of Bismarck has access to these child. At fi rst, I wasn’t sure why the boxes. If you or someone you Lord was prompting me to begin know is dealing with the loss of this mission, since my husband and a child, feel free to request one I didn’t have experience with the of the Max’s Mission boxes from loss of a child. I had just moved to your local parish. Additionally, Mandan with my husband and two the resources are available on the boys and life was a whirlwind; so, He lived for a mere 30 seconds, just of a child—to off er some comfort. Diocese of Bismarck website at I put off this prompt and fi gured long enough for him to be baptized The boxes contain a candle, a bismarckdiocese.com/maxsmission that if the Lord truly wanted me to and confi rmed. prayerful image of Mary with Jesus or you can request a box from do something with this, He would Being a part of the diffi cult in her womb, tissues, a journal, the Offi ce of Family Ministry and clarify this desire. journey of Maximilian’s short life a stuff ed animal, informational Respect Life at the Diocese of In September of 2017, I fi nally is something I will never forget. materials and two baby blankets. Bismarck. understood why the Lord placed It was a journey that brought our One of the blankets is newborn If you feel called to support this mission on my heart. It was entire family closer. To this day, sized and one is preemie sized; our mission, contact Amanda at at this time that my sister-in-law my children pray to Maximilian with the idea that one could be the diocese at 701-204-7205 or and her husband, Paxtyn and Zach and we all keep his memory. Going used for wrapping the baby, and [email protected], or Steckler, found out that they were through the process of infant loss one to be kept as a memento. The contact Samantha Nelson at 218- expecting their fi rst child. with Paxtyn and Zach was the box also contains information and 280-8327. Not long after the news of clarifi cation I needed from God and resources to guide them through JUNE 2021 Dakota Catholic Action | 11 Making Sense out of Bioethics FR. TAD PACHOLCZYK

Vaccine mandates and Catholic colleges

In a recent statement from the National moment that calm, careful and case-by-case deadly) encounter with the virus itself. The Catholic Bioethics Center on COVID-19 discernment becomes crucial. same would hold for young people who are vaccines, we noted that the Catholic Church Mandating vaccines for everyone involves a obese or diabetic, or have regular contact with “neither requires nor forbids” the use of fl awed assumption that there are only benefi ts, vulnerable groups like the elderly. vaccines, but instead urges people to “form and no signifi cant burdens, associated with Finally, mandates can sometimes have an their consciences and to carefully discern the getting vaccinated. The history of vaccine eff ect opposite to what is intended. People moral and prudential issues involved.” development reminds us how vaccines, which can stubbornly dig in their heels when certain A 2020 Vatican statement off ers a similar constitute a breakthrough technology and behaviors are compelled. conclusion: “vaccination is not, as a rule, a life-saving remedy in the battle to improve Jonah Berger, a marketing professor at the moral obligation,” and “therefore, it must be public health, are nevertheless not a risk-free Wharton School, has noted that there is some voluntary.” endeavor. evidence that telling people what to do can That’s why, when Catholic colleges and Some individuals have allergies to vaccine backfi re, as with “Just Say No” style anti-drug universities mandate COVID-19 vaccines as ingredients. Others have immune systems campaigns that may actually increase drug use a condition for enrollment, as several have that cannot tolerate vaccines. Some vaccine among certain subgroups of young people. recently done, important ethical confl icts and recipients encounter unanticipated reactions “People want to feel like they’re in control of prudential concerns arise. and side eff ects, whether it’s headaches, their choices,” Berger says. Vaccine mandates run counter to the muscle aches, several days of exhaustion or He notes, however, that once people have wisdom of encouraging individuals to make nausea, anaphylaxis, or the rare blood clots described what they care about and believe careful and case-specifi c determinations seen among those who received the Johnson others have addressed those concerns, it’s regarding their personal health needs. Such and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine. much harder for them to push back merely mandates bolster the idea that the judgment of When deciding about vaccinations, other for the sake of resisting: “They’re [now] a a higher authority, say a university president considerations besides safety and side eff ects participant in the process rather than being or a politician, should be substituted for their also come into play. forced to do something.” own free and informed consent. There are ethical concerns about the way Especially at Catholic universities and In general, when I become sick, I ought to certain COVID-19 vaccines are connected to colleges, where we are seeking to form the next function as the decision-maker regarding my cell lines derived from abortions. generation of society’s leaders and thinkers, medical treatments, even as I work closely Certain populations, statistically speaking, instead of imposing the requirement to get with my health care providers to receive the will face low risk from diseases like COVID-19, vaccinated, leaders would do better to share information, I need to make the best decision. including otherwise healthy college-age and explain to students the benefi ts and risks Similarly, if I am healthy, but face the risk of students and children, many thousands of of vaccinations—scientifi c and ethical—to help exposure to a new disease, I must weigh the whom have tested positive but most of whom them decide. benefi ts and burdens of prophylactic measures have experienced only mild symptoms or may By off ering evidence-based information like vaccines. have been entirely asymptomatic. Those who and moral principles, rather than mandates, Early in a pandemic, there can be a lot of have been previously exposed to COVID-19 college students will be helped to clarify their questions and uncertainty because of shifting may decide to delay or decline vaccination, own processes of intellectual and personal sets of medical data or a growing sense of since they already have acquired some discernment, and acquire the habit of making alarm and panic. We may be tempted to think immunity. more prudent and informed choices. we can or should sideline ethical or prudential For those, meanwhile, who are more g Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his doctorate concerns. vulnerable to the coronavirus and its in neuroscience from Yale and did post-doctoral work at Yet it is at precisely such a time that our potentially damaging eff ects, like those who Harvard. He is a priest of the diocese of Fall River, MA, and ethics and prudential judgments become are elderly, obese, diabetic, or facing other serves as the Director of Education at The National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. He also serves as a professor paramount, as we seek to temper urgency with comorbidities, it makes sense for them of bioethics at the University of Mary in Bismarck. See www. due diligence, and to confront our fears with to consider the potentially safer path of ncbcenter.org reason and discernment. It is in such a crisis vaccination, rather than risking a harmful (or Ag Attitudes

JAMES ODERMANN

You are what you eat—making spiritual diet Jesus’ refl ection

The approach to spring’s work agricultural producers are the commandment: love one another true for my this year is diff erent. With all the front-line workers to supply food. as I love you.” spiritual life. Bismarck Diocese in the “extreme The world depends on production As I contemplated on these The lights went on for me. Is drought” category (and the entire from rural fi elds and pastures. words from the gospel of St. John, my spiritual diet a refl ection of the state experiencing some degree of So, as I thought about how I refl ected on my own life and Church’s call for community, for drought), the attitude of hesitancy mechanization has moved four things that really require interaction through the scriptures, seems prevalent. agriculture forward, I rhetorically attention: 1) Condemnation is easy; prayer, Mass and the Eucharist? Some of the restraint is caused wondered if interpersonal 2) Communication takes eff ort; 3) Is my diet fi lled with empathy for by the investment that producers relationships have advanced at the Collaboration requires energy; 4) others? I need my diet to be one need to make to generate a crop. same speed. It seems “my way or Consensus needs empathy. of reaching out to understand, to Another part of the equation is the highway” is the chosen method. Sadly, for whatever reason, help, to love as Christ did. that farmers today can get done While walking the fence lines point one is the default action. I need to be more Christ-like. in one hour what used to take a on pastures for livestock turnout, Points two and three are seldom- This means reform, changing day (at least when I was young checking on young stock or invoked corrective action steps attitudes. riding around on the John Deere crisscrossing fi elds putting seed in and point four really shows one’s Care to join me? “R” tractor). Stopping at the fence the ground, I refl ected on Jesus’ commitment to God’s love, to my g Odermann lives with his wife, Leona, row and visiting with the neighbor words to the disciples: “As the sisters and brothers in Christ. on the family farm in Billings County. They takes on a whole diff erent meaning. Father loves me, so I also love you I contemplated the call by Jesus are members of the Church of St. Patrick The bottom line, however, . . . I have told you this so that to be His disciple, which really ties in Dickinson and assist with eucharistic is that the crop will get planted my joy may be in you and your back to my chosen vocation: “you celebrations there as well as at the Churches because people need to eat—and joy might be complete. This is my are what you eat.” This is especially of St. Bernard (Belfi eld) and St. Mary (Medora). 12 | Dakota Catholic Action JUNE 2021

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