Christ the King C O U R I E R Volume 2, Issue 1 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 Sabbath Rest

Who Created You?

A Reflection on the Lord’s Day

Who Redeemed You? by Brian Carey, C.S.Sp. observing His Day and so missing His blessings. In the gospels it seems that in Jesus days there was good observance of the Sabbath at least in some ways. In answer to the above questions I assume that all of us at The first Christians were Jews. After the Lord’s death, Christ the King would respond “God” to the first question, and resurrection and ascension they continued to worship in the “Jesus Christ” to the second. Temple and Synagogue on Saturdays. But the Acts of the If that is the case, it seems perfectly natural that we should Apostles 2:42-47, tells us that they also gathered in their homes acknowledge that in some way. To have been created and for the “Breaking of the Bread” as Jesus had commanded them redeemed is a grace, a free gift of God, for which we ought to to do in His memory. The “Breaking of the Bread” obviously give thanks. refers to the Lord’s Supper, the “Eucharist”, as we call it. We look to our Tradition to discover an appropriate way to After the year 70 A.D., when Jerusalem and the Temple do this. God Himself has told us to make the Seventh Day Holy, were destroyed by the Romans, all Temple worship came to an to set it apart from the other days so we can spend time with end. That Christians continued to celebrate the Eucharist on Him and one another without the distraction of the work and Sundays is attested by St. Justin the Martyr, from Nablus just toils of everyday living, And Jesus Himself designated north of Jerusalem, about the year 100 A.D.: celebrate His Supper as the way to remember Him. The Jewish people observe the Lord’s day on Saturday, On Sundays there is an assembly of all who live in which they call Shabbat. God promises many blessings to those towns or the country, and the memoirs of the Apostles who keep His Sabbath faithfully. But also, many times in the are read, which are called the gospels, or the writings books of the prophets the Lord reprimands them for not of the prophets. Then the President admonishes us and Page 2 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 From our Pastor Father Robert J. Baker

Dear Parishioners and Friends of Christ the King Parish, The summer months are upon us once again, and Father Brian Carey’s wonderful cover story highlights the importance of the Sunday Liturgy and Sabbath Rest for all of us who are followers of Jesus. Though we all look forward to, and deserve, a summer vacation Notes and a break from our daily labors, New volunteer in training? Do you think we we never take a break from serving

Editor’s begin too young? Pictured above: June the Lord. Morgan with granddaughter., Carolyn. Our Sunday celebration of the Liturgy is a cornerstone of our faith in the Lord; and our Church calls us efforts has been great! We hope to Our First Anniversary! all to celebrate that day with fervor, Henry Nguyen, who gave a hear more from you as time goes faith, and prayer and to take leave protective coating of varnish to the on. The Courier Staff and friends of our usual workday obligations to Stations and placed the roofing Please feel free to write to us met at “Steak & Ale” on March 26 give greater time to the Lord, to material on the top for us. anytime. If you have an idea or a to celebrate our First Anniversary. family, and to the fostering of our Take advantage of their special event in your family which It was an evening filled with fun, friendships. inspired labors by making the you would like to share with us, fellowship and good food. Our Pope John Paul II’s recent Stations of the Cross there yourself, please do not hesitate to submit an pastor, Fr. Robert Baker, asked the Encyclical Letter on the Lord’s as the children of our school did the article and any pictures you would Lord’s blessing. Day, Dies Domini, reminds us of Friday before Holy Week. Our like to include. Several people have After dinner, certificates of God’s call to make Sunday holy! House of Prayer is available for all already done so and seem pleased appreciation were presented to all We thank all the people in our people of our parish involved in with our presentation of what they the Staff members. As a special parish who help us celebrate our parish ministries. Just call Pat have had to say. surprise, each member of the staff Sunday liturgies with deep faith, Thomas at the Rectory to reserve Again, the staff has worked received a shirt with Christ the great reverence, and joyful praise your “Day Away to Pray.” hard to bring you information, King Courier Inaugural Staff in song. This Sunday gathering is We thank you for your interviews from parishioners, imprinted on it. “Thank you, so crucial to our building of our patience, and caution around our events of the last quarter and a taste Tony!” for your friendship, help faith community that only an building site, during construction of what will be in the next issue. Sit and now our wonderful shirts! illness of ourselves or of a family of Phase I of the project in honor of back in your easy chair, relax, and I want to thank all who read the member committed to our care can Sister Therese Horan at Christ the enjoy reading. Courier. Your response to our justify us in failing to join our King School and our adult brothers and sisters in the Lord for baptismal font construction in our Christ the King Courier Sunday worship. Gathering Area, all of which should We commend those who show be underway this summer. 742 N. Arlington Road their deep faith by faithful A blessed, peaceful, and faith- Jacksonville, FL 32211 commitment to Sunday Mass on filled summer to all our Phone: (904) 724-0080 Fax: 721-2326 the Lord’s day, and those who parishioners and friends of Christ attend an additional Mass or daily the King Parish. Mass during the week! Publisher: Father Robert J. Baker God bless you always! Managing Editor: Judy Koziolek Our special thanks to Ron Advertising/Layout Design: Tony Trotti, (904) 744-6648 Lynch, and the Lynch family, for Sincerely Yours in Christ the King, Newspaper Staff: Donna Baker Dottie McMillan providing the wooden structures Ward Berkey Jane Middleton that frame our outdoor Stations of Dolores Bianco Kathy Nichols the Cross at our House of Prayer. Father Bob Baker James Claxton Eileen Porter Ron was helped in this project by Bill Dougherty Kathy Purtle Leroy Garvin Meredith Reno Blanche Inglesias Mary Ann Sullivan Catholic Volunteers in Florida Wanda Klima Jo Thomas Linda McCreary Joanne Wnuk Combine volunteer service with spiritual The mission of CHRIST THE KING COURIER is to provide our Christ The King Family with information and news regarding our faith and parish ministries. The enrichment...become a Lay volunteer in Florida! The goal is to share information, happenings, and stories that abound within the Catholic volunteers seek to promote the values of ministries of our parish in the hope that people can use this information to bring you closer to God and our parish church family. Wisdom and enlightenment are two of social justice by direct service to farm workers, many of God's gifts, and through CHRIST THE KING COURIER, parishioners can homeless, hungry, low-income parishes, unwed share in the joy, love, and fellowship of Christ the King Parish. Our desire is to serve our God, share his message of love and hope with all, and to encourage others mothers, and others in need. This is accomplished by to spread the message of the Gospel of Christ the King. degreed or work experienced individuals volunteering As the official publication of our parish family, Christ the King Courier sees the reading from St. Paul's Letter to the Colossians as exemplifying the content and to dedicate their education, talent and experience in a character of this publication. ministry of service, on a full-time basis for one year "As the chosen of God, then, the holy people whom He loves, you are to be clothed while receiving a stipend and basic accommodations. in heartfelt compassion, in generosity and humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with one another; forgive each other if one of you has a complaint against another. For more information: The Lord has forgiven you; now you must do the same. Over all these clothes, put on love, the perfect bond. And may the peace of Christ reign in your hearts, because Catholic Volunteers in Florida it is for this that you were called together in one body." Colossians 3:12-15. P.O. Box 702 The Christ the King Courier is a quarterly newspaper published by Christ the King Catholic Church. Publisher reserves the right to refuse articles, poetry, Goldenrod, FL 32733-0702 advertisements, etc. contrary to paper's policy and standards. The appearance of (407) 331-6444 advertising in these pages does not imply endorsement of businesses, services and products. Readers must exercise prudence in responding to advertising in all media. You can make a difference! Political advertising not accepted. Publisher reserves the right to edit all materials submitted for publication. May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 3

We Would like to announce the following people Baptisms: who were recently baptized into the Catholic Letters Church Zico Roberto Tierro Jan 23 Michelle Anderson April 3 Buhangija Parish February 9, 1999 James Richard Scanlan June 10, 95 Norma Frye April 3 Jan. 27, 1999 John Michael McVearry Jan 31 Scott Palmer Frye April 3 Reverend Father Robert Baker Matthew Vaught Considine Feb. 7 Michael Kingry April 3 Dear Christ the King Parish, Christ the King Parish Hannah Catherine Shami Feb. 7 Paul Edward Loyd April 3 Most sincere thanks for your Lam Philips Mguyen Feb. 16 Mary Lou McCall April 3 Dear Father Bob: Donald Eugene Wright, Jr. Feb. 21 Margaret Jean Marshall April 3 very generous gift of $500 at Richard Brandes Sharp, Jr. Feb. 21 Lesley Newman April 3 Christmas. As you are no doubt aware Congratulations to you and the Anthony Hung Hguyen Feb. 21 Deborah Padgett April 3 from news reports, Africa is a editorial staff of your parish Tyler Chin Feb. 27 Karen Scott April 3 continent beset with many newspaper, the Courier. Michael Lee Vliet III Feb. 28 Clark Rutherford Scott April 3 problems, and several of its more Lots of great pictures and good Seth B. Gozar March 7 William Wilson Underwood April 3 than 20 countries are among the articles. Impressive to say the Quinton Cordell Gardner March 7 Darren Waldeck April 3 poorest in the world. Among these least! Faith Scoones March 7 Mary Collins Weldon April 3 is Tanzania, and it’s not because of Every parish in the diocese Megan Renee Mary Fallon March 14 Betty Jo Woehrmeyer April 3 wars or conflicts with its should be fortunate enough to Eric Michael Sievert March 20 Jeannie Sharon Phillips Oct. 31, 98 neighbors, but its resources are have such a means of Alexandra Volpe St. John March 21 Alec Anthony Soares April 11 very limited. Most people depend communicating with and building Amy Fallon April 3 Caitlyn Nicole Curtis April 11 on agriculture for their life needs, the parish community. Dacia Knowles April 3 Rebecca Kay Schroder April 11 and that depends on the weather. Please extend my praise for a April Marie Matthews April 3 Tina Motel April 11 This year the rain is more than two job well done to all concerned. Giap Thi Le April 3 Trynity Lynn Fosbenner March months late, and food supplies are May the love, peace, and joy of Phuong Thi Nguyen April 3 Miryan Andrea Leon April 18 very low. Jesus Christ be with you. Thao Thi Nguyen April 3 Andrew Joseph April 18 Families have been coming to Sincerely, We woud like to welcome the following us who are completely without Welcome: food, and it is only with the help of individuals and families to Christ the King Francis N. Scholtz Community gifts like yours that we are able to provide at least a minimum of food Director The George Nagle Family The William St. Jean Family until crops, now planted, can be Diocese of St. Augustine The Donnie Wright Family The Emiliano Bunag Family harvested in two or three months’ Catholic Center The Tom McCrone Family The Carlos Canjura Family time. You are the ones who through The Kevin Stone Family The Steven Curtis Family us are “feeding the hungry.” It’s not Jeffrey Birchland The Miguel Leon Family easy to meet the needs—because The Eric Turchyn Family The Wanda Ballard Family there are so many, but with your The Jeffry Asher Family The John Nolan Family help we are doing what we can. So The Kym Urso Family The George Beining Family we ask God to bless your The Kenneth Craig Tew Family Michael Evans generosity and to provide for all Arturo Penãs Mary Warming your needs. Kindly continue to The Steven Soares Family Ed DeMiranda, Jr. keep us in mind and in your Mr. & Mrs. Jesus Cuapiaco Jr. Sandy Mayor prayers as we serve these people in The Bradley Saad Family The Kathryn Poloclak Family your name, for the love of Our Daniel Abeyta Vivian Fisher Lord. The Edward Jackson Family The Gilberto Resto Family William Baldwin Scott Baldwin Sincerely yours in Christ, Rachel Kern Fr. E. Brunelle The following people are recently deceased memebers Deaths: of our parish for whom we offer our special prayers. Harold Neuendorf Feb. 1 Capt. H. A.(Hank) Steele March 20 Paul Culberhouse Jan. 24 William Wallis March 18 Antonio Rivera March 9 Nina Dovi March 25 May Mack-Hale March 12 Katherine Wielgus March 25 Lucille Schelldorf March 6 Ray Oxenreider April 8 Ruth Guthrie Feb. 23 Emily Butler April 5 Alicia Greene March 12 We would like to acknowledge the following Marriages: parishioners who were recently united into the Sacrament of Marriage. Michael Salvador Quindoza & Elenita Jack Eugene Norman & Anne Marie Dela Cruz Aguda on Feb. 13. Shami on April 10.

Rena Zamora Garcia & Elvia Raquel Lorenzo-Lvaces on March 20.

On March 26 after the 8:15 Mass, Father Baker arranged a very special event. All the students met at the House of Prayer for the Outdoor Stations of the Cross - Photo & comments by Kathy Nichols Page 4 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 Vocations and Priestly Formation by Seminarian Joseph B. Fetter Tetlow replied, “Have your son call was 58, men religious 61, women me!” - and so I did. religious 69. Twenty-four percent Vocations can begin anywhere, At the time, I had just of diocesan priests were over 70, even in a hot tub... completed my undergraduate which is the average retirement age Be careful near the water! studies at St. John’s University in for priests. Snakes, alligators; Jesus! The Collegeville, Minnesota (which is just one hour north of dangers are many; one of them a 1965 1997 Taken from the book of Isaiah: Minneapolis), with a degree in vocation to the priesthood. Two “Then I heard the voice of the Lord sociology and theology. Fr. Tetlow thousand years ago, Jesus “caught” Total priests 58,132 48,097 saying, ‘Whom shall I send? Who had sent me the application, wanted four of His best disciples while Priestly will go for us?’ ‘Here I am,’ I said; me to write a biography, and they were washing their nets next Ordinations 994 521 ‘Send me!’” Isaiah 6: 8 to the Sea of Galilee. include letters of recommendation. Graduate-level Let us pray: A passage taken from Luke’s I met with him in Milwaukee, Wis. gospel states: “Simon Peter fell at with all these documents. I then Seminarians 8,325 3,292 Prayer for Vocations the knees of Jesus saying, ‘Leave went before the Diocesan Vocations Parishes without resident priests 549 2,393 (National Conference of Catholic me, Lord. I am a sinful man.’ Jesus Board, and was accepted into the Bishops) said to Simon, ‘Do not be afraid. diocese two years ago. I am Total Catholics 46.6m O loving and gracious God, From this moment on, you will be a attending St. Vincent de Paul Father of all, fisher of men.’” Luke 5, 8-10. Seminary in Boynton Beach, The average age for Bless your people Two years ago, Jesus began Florida, completing my graduate seminarians in 1993 was 32, in every time and season and baiting His hook for me from the studies in theology and seminary whereas it was 25 in 1966. provide for their needs through waters of a hot tub. The most formation for obtaining a Masters “Here am I Lord; I come to do Your providential care. common question that I am asked in Divinity in preparation for Your will.” Psalms 40:8-9 Your Church is continually is, “How were you called to be a priestly ordained ministry. The Church, says Sr. Bertrand, in need of priests, sisters and priest?” As my parents were “The harvest is rich but the needs to strengthen its priestly brothers to offer themselves driving up from the coast of laborers are few.” Matthew 9:37 ministry with happy, healthy people in the service of the Gospel by In an article written by Sr. who have a desire to make a lives of dedicated love. Florida, they decided to stop Open the hearts of overnight in Jacksonville. They Cathy Bertrand, S.S.N.D. “People difference in the Church and the your sons and daughters both wanted to unwind in the hot still choose religious life and world - even in the midst of to listen to Your call in their tub. There was another gentleman priesthood, but the number is struggle and confusion; people for lives. sitting in there with them, so my declining.” In North America, there whom God is significant and who Give them the gift of courage dad struck up a conversation with are fewer religious clergy and have a burning desire to be of to follow your call. him saying, “So what do you do for fewer people in seminaries of service to others. The Church needs May they have the spirit of a living?” The gentleman formation. In the late 50’s and early people who have leadership skills young Samuel who found answered, “I am a priest, as well as 60’s, there were higher numbers and can work well with a variety of fulfillment in his life the Vocations Director for the entering priesthood and religious people. No one is born a priest. when he said to you, Diocese,” (Fr. John Tetlow). life, but that was an unusual and Vocations are God-inspired and “Speak Lord, for your servant is “Really,” responded my parents, unique time. Statistics from The home-made. It is those among us listening.” (1 Samuel 3, 10) Cara Report Summer 1997; Vol. 3, who have what it takes to live and We ask this through “Our son is thinking about a Christ the Lord. vocation in the priesthood.” Fr. No. 1, states that in 1996, the serve in this way who are called Amen average age for a diocesan priest forth. The Light of the World

Floyd Townsend, Eli Shami and Ray rehearse Ray Oxenreider with Christ the King Adult Choir

by Dolores Bianco years he drove a friend to Christ the her invitation and was an interested eyes, Ray received both Holy King Church every Sunday for 7:00 and active participant. He also Communion and Confirmation. He Matthew’s Gospel 5:16 states: a.m. Mass. The two sat in the front fulfilled his love for singing by continued to participate in both the “your light must shine before pew. Ray’s friend passed away four joining the Adult Choir. RCIA and choir, often coming in a others that they may see the good years ago; yet Ray, not of the His contribution to both wheelchair, until the disease Catholic faith, continued attending programs was interrupted when a progressed enough to keep him in that you do and glorify your the same Mass - now sitting in the visit to his doctor to check leg pains and out of the hospital. heavenly Father.” church’s back pew. A fellow found him to be suffering from The Lord took Ray into His parishioner, Helen Mead, leukemia. The future looked dim. heavenly home on April 8, 1999. Ray Oxenreider (1927-1999) approached him and suggested he For this reason, Father Carey We at Christ the King will always was a shining example of these enter the RCIA program. She conferred the Church’s Sacraments. remember the good that he did and words in action. The past twenty would be his sponsor. He accepted On February 7, with tears in his the light that shone in him. May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 5

(Inset) Additional students graduating from Christ the King in May of 1999 Healing Service

but I did not faint. I wasn’t sure if was there, he not only allowed a there had been a personal healing priest to come to him, my father or not. I did, however, feel a sense received Holy Communion for the of peace overwhelm me. first time in over fifty years. He has The service ended and accepted the end of this life and is everyone left, as did I. I had made at peace with his impending death. one special request for a healing for The request I had made at Father my father. I requested a spiritual McDonough’s healing service had healing for him. My father is been fulfilled. My father received a terminally ill with cancer and has spiritual healing. I received peace; been away from the Church for peace of mind, peace of heart and more than fifty-five years. I had no peace of spirit ... a healing in all idea if my prayers for his healing three modalities, the physical, would be fulfilled. emotional and spiritual. Last Saturday, February 27, I Yes Father McDonough, you flew to New York to tell my father are right. You do heal everyone. good bye. He requested that all four Thank you. of his children be there. While I Healing Prayer Father Edward McDonough led the Healing Service by Eileen Porter praying for those in need of healing, physical, emotional or by Meredith Reno new experience for me. I did not There is nothing as selfless as spiritual. The goal of CHM is to know what to expect. praying for another whether it is a teach others the power of healing Father Edward McDonough Several people were invited to dear friend or someone we do not with prayer along with the says that he is often asked how give testimonials on their own know. It is asking Our Lord to traditional medical and many people receive healings healings. I listened, never doubting bless another and to help that psychological approaches to during his services. He said that he for a moment that these were true person heal spiritually or healing. always answers, “everyone”. I was accounts. Father explained that physically. This was the message After he finished speaking, Mr. fortunate enough to have attended there were three kinds of healings: of Mr. Francis McNutt on March 1, McNutt answered questions from Fr. McDonough’s healing service physical, emotional, and spiritual. 1999 in the Parish Hall. the audience. He then invited on February 24. The testimonials were about About 200 people enjoyed a pot members of the assemblage who The church was packed ... physical and spiritual healings. luck dinner and a spirit filled felt the need of healing to come standing room only. Families were Father blessed those who had evening with Mr. McNutt. Parish forward. Several people responded in attendance as were many people shared their experiences and then Council President Mike Mackin and Mr. McNutt prayed over them who were physically handicapped walked throughout the church, introduced our pastor Fr. Robert in the name of the Lord. It was a in some way. As Fr. McDonough blessing and healing and sprinkling Baker, who in turn presented Mr. moving experience to see this led the congregation through holy water on everyone. I watched McNutt. Mr. McNutt and his wife demonstration of faith on the part prayers I began to sense a many people faint at his healing Judith, who are members of Christ of Mr. McNutt, as well as those heightening of energy in the touch. He touched me as well, and I the King Parish, founded Christian who asked for the healing power of church. I had never been to a felt an increase in the energy Healing Ministries (CHM) in 1981. prayer. healing service before, so this was a around me that made me sit down, This ministry is dedicated to Page 6 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 Hundreds enjoy St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

Hundreds of Christ the King It was a sea of green hats, parishioners celebrated the Feast of sweaters, shirts, and of course, St. Patrick in the Parish Hall beer. Old friends were greeted following the noon Mass on and new friends were made. The Father Baker and March 7. entire celebration would not have Monsignor A traditional St. Patrick’s Day been possible without the dedicated Danaher give the fare of corned beef, cabbage, bread, volunteers who cooked in the blessing for the cakes, cookies, and green beer were kitchen or manned the serving lines meal during the prepared by the Knights of for food and drinks. St. Patrick’s Day Columbus volunteers. Monsignor While the celebration came a celebration in the Mortimer Danaher, former pastor little early, it still touched the hearts Parish Hall. of Christ the King, helped Father of many Christ the King Robert Baker with the “blessing of parishioners who enjoyed delicious the meal.” food, great fellowships, and Entertainment was provided by shared their love for Jesus Christ, International Irish Tenor mark Our Lord. Forrest, and also by Christ the King’s Suzuki Violin Strings Band.

L to R: Father Baker with his mother Rosemary Baker, Sister Therese, his aunt Alice Willman, Monsignor Danaher, and Father Baker’s uncle George Willman share a moment during the St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Dolly Casterlin mans the cake table during the celebration held in the Parish Hall

Christ the King’s own Suzuki Violin Strings Band perform for parishioners at the St. Patrick Day luncheon

Father Bob Baker thanks Mark Forest for the memorable songs he performed

Parishioners enjoy a traditional Irish meal of corned beef, cabbage, cake and even soda bread

Story by Bill Dougherty May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 7 A Visit to Rockwell

Fr. Tom McCarthy welcomes Jerry and Mary Ann Sullivan to Rockwell College by Mary Ann Sullivan invited us to have lunch with him at the College. Parishioners Jerry and Mary Rockwell College is in the Ann Sullivan recently returned from middle of the countryside and it has a trip to Ireland. One of their visits loads of land and a large lake. was to the town of Cashel, and Football (rugby) fields were to the Rockwell College (Fr. Sean’s alma right and, what seemed to be a pine mater) where our Fr. Tom forest to the left. It was beautiful. McCarthy is stationed. Entering, what we perceived to be the rectory, we came upon a Touring the beautiful country of wonderful stained glass window Ireland is something everyone above a double stairway. The should do - at least once. The window had a large image of Our countryside is breathtaking, the Blessed Mother surrounded by the history is awesome, and the people different activities that go on at are gracious and friendly. We were Rockwell: students in prayer, in Stained glass window of Our Blessed Mother at Rockwell College fortunate enough to be able to meet class, playing musical instruments with Fr. Tom McCarthy and learn a and in sporting activities. It was 1841, it was used by the Marquis of in removing a secular subject from little bit about the history of very unusual. Waterford, the mansion being used the course study. The campus Rockwell College. Father Tom showed us the as a hunting lodge. The grounds encompasses a 23 acre lake, an Fr. Tom knew of our plans to trophy room and invited us into a eventually came into the hands of indoor heated swimming pool, a visit him, so he was not surprised private dining room for our the Holy Ghost Fathers in 1864, nine-hole golf course and a by our phone call. (Fr. Carey saw to luncheon. We enjoyed a lovely where it became a Secondary gymnasium. it that we had very good directions meal as he explained the history of School for boys. The motto is Inter Concluding the luncheon, Fr. to Cashel and Rockwell College). the college. Mutanda Constantia meaning Tom recited a lovely poem about Father looked well and he seemed The land that Rockwell sits on Constancy Amidst Change. friendship and prayed for our safe very pleased to see people from was once part of an estate of The 130 year old ‘College’ journey home. Before leaving Christ the King. He graciously Richard Boule, Earl of Cork. In (boarding school) today has over Father introduced us to a number of 450 students, from ages 12 to 18. It people on staff, and then he showed is now a coed school; most of the us the 100 year old chapel of St. boys live on campus while the girls Patrick. It was a pretty chapel, that More Mardi live in homes throughout the area. was more like a small church. Food service was one of the main We said our good byes until and areas of study; as we saw many June 10th, when he is due to return trophies displayed in that field. to Jacksonville. More Party! Father told us that the state wanted We appreciated Fr. Tom taking to teach the course, so the subject time out of his schedule for us. He was forced out of the curriculum. In put a very personal touch on our by Leroy Garvin adding spice, was some Cajun food Ireland, the state pays the teachers trip to his homeland. We will that was served. salaries in parochial schools; so remember it always. Nearly 40 members from five The evening tested the dance apparently the state had some pull different churches found ‘More skills of the singles who tried their Mardi’ and ‘More Party’ in the steps to all types of music. The Mardi Gras dance sponsored by large round decorated tables Christ the King Parish Council and provided everyone the opportunity hosted by M.O.M.S. Ministry and to converse, make new friends, and the Day Care Center. The rest the wary toes. Kingdome was transformed into Proceeds from the evening New Orleans with its brightly went to the Building Fund for the colors of purple, green and gold. Sister Therese Horan Library and The traditional beads were handed Media Center. out to all who attended. The Single and Single Again Members from Christ the King, Group were happy to be a part of St. Joseph, St. Catherine, the this Parish Council event and we Episcopal singles and Trailblazers hope it will become an annual danced and dined. Many wore tradition that we all can take part in colorful costumes that added an as a community. extra spice to the evening. Also Page 8 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999

submitted by Troupe Turner complete the Ark without filing an environmental impact statement on And the Lord spoke to Noah and Your proposed flood. They didn’t said, “In six months I am going to take kindly to the idea that they make it rain until the whole earth had no jurisdiction over the is covered with water and the evil conduct of a Supreme Being.” people are destroyed. But I want “Then the Army Corps of to save a few good people and two Engineers wanted a map of the of every kind of living thing on the proposed new flood plain. I sent planet. I am commanding you to Noah’s Ark them a globe. Right now, I’m still build an ark.” trying to resolve a complaint from In a flash of lightning, God the Equal Opportunity delivered the specifications for an If It Happened in 1999 Employment Commission over ark. “Okay!” said Noah, trembling how many Croatians I’m supposed with fear and fumbling with the to hire. The IRS has seized all my blueprints. assets, claiming I’m trying to Ark construction project, and Your the wood to save the owls...but “Six months, and it starts to rain,” avoid paying taxes by leaving the plans didn’t meet code. I had to they wouldn’t let me catch any thundered the Lord. “You’d better country. And I just got a notice hire an engineer to re-draw the owls, so no owls.” have the Ark completed, or learn from the State about owing them plans. Then I got into a big fight “The carpenters formed a union how to swim for a very long some kind of use tax. I really over whether or not the Ark and went on strike. I had to time.” don’t think I can finish the Ark for needed a fire sprinkler system.” negotiate a settlement with the Six months passed, and the skies at least another five years,” Noah “Then my neighbor objected, National Labor Relations Board clouded up and rain began to fall. wailed. claiming I was violating zoning by before anyone would pick up a The Lord saw that Noah was The sky began to clear. The sun building the Ark in my front yard. saw or hammer. Now we have sitting in his front yard weeping - began to shine. A rainbow arched I had to get a variance from the sixteen carpenters going on the and there was no ark! “Noah,” across the sky. Noah looked up city planning commission.” boat and still no owls.” shouted the Lord, “where is the and smiled. “You mean you’re not “Then I had problems getting “Then I started gathering up Ark?” going to destroy the earth?” Noah enough wood for the Ark, because animals and got sued by an animal “Lord, please forgive me!” asked hopefully. there was a ban on cutting trees to rights group. They objected to my begged Noah. “I did my best. But “No,” said the Lord sadly. “The save the Spotted Owl. I had to taking only two of each kind. Just there were big problems. First, I government already has.” convince the U.S. Fish and when I got the suit dismissed, the had to get a building permit for the Wildlife Commission that I needed EPA notified me that I couldn’t continued from page 1 encourages us to imitate the Lord’s Day we should ask “could I Lord’s Day, “Dies Domini”. An first day of the week, a new beautiful lessons we have do this some other day?” rather Encyclical Letter is one written by beginning. At the Sunday Eucharist heard.....Then we all stand and than “can I do this or that on the Pope to the Bishops of the we gather in the presence of the pray together. Sunday?” We can be influenced by Church to be circulated to all the risen Lord as a pilgrim people. We When we have finished, bread a kind of practical atheism which faithful. are renewed by His Body and and wine and water are brought we find around us. That is, acting In this letter he tells us that on Blood, and prepared for our up, and the President offers and living as if there were no God, the Lord’s Day we rejoice in God’s mission of evangelizing and prayers of thanksgiving. All and Sunday observance doesn’t Creation, of which we are the Christianizing the society and present receive some of it, and matter. crown. This Day God asked us to world in which we live. Sunday the deacons take some to those In face of this tendency, our make Holy. It is the Day of the reveals to us the real meaning of who are absent.....Contributions Holy Father, Pope John Paul II has Lord’s Resurrection and the day of Time and reminds us that Jesus, the are collected and left with the written an Encyclical Letter on the the Gift of the Holy Spirit. It is the Alpha and the Omega is the Lord of President so he can help Shabbat Shalom all time. Even our calendars are orphans and widows and those The Jewish Sabbath redeemed when they are attuned to in need. the Lord of Days. So on Sundays we all come When our lives center on the Between noon and 2 P.M. on Fridays all offices, businesses and stores in together. This is the First Day, Lord’s Day we prepare ourselves the Jewish sectors of Jerusalem close. Traffic is at peak. There are long lines at on which God transformed for the Day of the Lord, when He the bus stops. People are scurrying along the sidewalks. You best get out of their darkness and matter, and made will return to gather us into His way, because they are all rushing home for the beginning of Shabbat. They the world; the Day on which Father’s Kingdom. greet each other “Shabbat Shalom” - “may you have a peaceful Sabbath”. An Christ the Savior rose from the From my own experience I hour before sundown the city sirens sound to let everyone know that the dead. know that when I give the Lord His Sabbath is about to begin. Mothers get the table ready for the Sabbath meal, As you can see, we still live by time I always have plenty of time prepared to light the candles. this Tradition. Sunday is a for what needs to be done. When I “We are no longer slaves”, the Rabbi said. “The Lord our God freed us from memorial of Resurrection Day. don’t, there seems to be no time for that”. Our God tells us ‘to sit down’. [That is what Shabbat means.] Leave your In accordance with Hebrews anything, and everything seems work aside, spend some time with me and with each other that I may bless you. 10: 25 which says “Do not absent rushed amid hassle. You don’t have to carry anything. For too long you carried clay, and straw and yourself from the Assembly”, the One of the prayers of the bricks and water. Don’t go anywhere to do anything. Just sit with me and one Church has always seen Maronite Mass says “Come in another. Let’s enjoy each other one day out of the seven.” participation in the Sunday peace, O Day of the Lord”. On the At the Friday evening service in the synagogue all turn toward the large Eucharist as a serious obligation Sabbath Jewish people greet one west facing window and stretch out their arms in welcome to receive the from which one should not easily another saying “Shabbat Shalom” - Sabbath as a spouse, a beautiful gift. The Song of Songs, that great Bible love- be excused. Our Tradition “may you have a peaceful song, pictures the meeting of the Lord and his People. On the Sabbath husbands continues that of the Jews by which Sabbath”. and wives are encouraged to make love and families and the community to unnecessary work is forbidden on We ourselves choose whether reconcile. On the Sabbath it is wonderful to see all the families walking the Lord’s Day, so that we can we see the Lord’s Day as obligation together or sitting in the parks and so on. spend time with our God and our and burden, or opportunity for In Jerusalem it is a real day of rest. At the evening meal on Saturday a family and friends. Changes in receiving blessing. braided candle is used to remind all to weave the sacred of the Sabbath into the society and culture seem to be May your Lord’s Day be profane of the other weekdays. robbing us of this aspect of the welcome and blessed. Sabbath. To be in the Spirit of the What a beautiful gift the Sabbath is! May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 9 On February 17, Ash approached the altar, Fr. Baker, Wednesday, Christ the King began along with the other priests of its liturgical Season of Lent. Christ the King, put ashes on each In ancient times the period of forehead of the Faithful and said, preparation for Easter differed in “Remember, man, that you are length in various countries. Later it dust, and into dust you shall was so arranged that forty days of return.” fast would precede the great Feast Lent is a time of repentance; it’s as a reminder of our Lord’s fast in also a time of renewal. During this the desert. holy time, Christ the King In the Old Law, ashes signified parishioners participated in the Rite grief or repentance. In the Early of Reconciliation and pledged to do Church, penitents did penance in their best to live by the Word of Ray Hauck reads the sackcloth and ashes. God. For the Christ the King lesson of the Lord During the 7:00 p.m. Mass on family, it was a time of reflection during the Ash Ash Wednesday, Christ the King and prayer, of fasting and Wednesday Mass. parishioners, including more than cleansing, and of making a 100 CCD students, recognized the commitment to our Lord and old law and focused on the future Savior, Jesus Christ. as they marked the beginning of With the ashen crosses on their Lenten season. foreheads, all members of the During the Mass, Fr. Robert Christ the King family left Mass Baker blessed the ashes with with a new sense of resolve to be special prayers, sprinkled them better persons for their God and with Holy Water, and incensed their neighbor. them. As each child or adult

An altar server places the Holy Cross by the altar during the Ash Wednesday Mass.

Father Baker, Father Thanh, Father Carey adn Father Sean place an ash Sign of the Cross on Christ the King parishioners, including students from CCD who attended the Ash Wednesday Mass

The opening procession begins the Ash Wednesday Mass

Story adn Photos by Bill Dougherty Page 10 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 News From The Pews - R.C.I.A.

Chick special delivery for Father Brian Carey from the RCIA group by R.C.I.A. Team Members Over the ensuing eight months their conversion to Catholicism. In During the month of March, these 24 Candidates, each a solemn ceremony at the 8:30 a.m. three scrutinies were celebrated. Eight months ago, in July 1998, accompanied by a Sponsor, Mass, the Candidates were invited The scrutinies belong to the Period following a call from God and listened, prayed, and studied, and to sign their names in the Book of of Purification and Enlightenment by February, they had reached the the Elect. and are meant to deliver the guided by the Holy Spirit, a group crossroads of their faith journey. The ceremony was then Candidates from the power of sin of 24 people embarked on a long On February 6, 1999, the continued at 3:00 p.m. in the and Satan, to protect them against journey of faith, called conversion. Candidates attended a Day of Cathedral in St. Augustine, temptation, and to give them These people began in the RCIA Discernment/Reflection. officiated by Bishop John Snyder. strength in Christ, who is the Way, (Rite of Christian Initiation of “Discernment” is a special gift Along with 222 other Candidates the Truth and the Life. These Adults) Inquiry Class and from the Holy Spirit to ascertain (1/3 of the over 800 Candidates in scrutinies should heal all that is continued into the instruction phase the will of God in one’s life. The our Diocese this year) from other weak, defective or sinful in the of the program. day consisted of prayer, reflection, parishes throughout the Diocese, hearts of the Candidates and to At Christ the King parish, these witness talks and discussions, the Christ the King Candidates and strengthen all that is upright, strong RCIA classes have been taught by ending with Mass, celebrated by Fr. Sponsors were presented to Bishop and good. Carey. Snyder, who signed the Book of the The Candidates underwent their Fr. Brian Carey, C.S.Sp., assisted Fifteen days later, on February Elect from each parish in first Sacrament of Reconciliation in by eight lay volunteers. Beginning 21, 1999, the 24 Candidates, their attendance and later met with the preparation for Holy Week, which on the first Tuesday evening of Sponsors, and the RCIA Team Candidates and Sponsors. The culminated with their acceptance September, the RCIA Candidates celebrated the Rite of Election, at program was highlighted by the into full communion with the have met every Tuesday evening which the Candidates formally musical accompaniment of Bernie Catholic Church on Holy Saturday for approximately 1 ½ hours. declared their desire to continue Sans and the Christ the King Choir. night. MARDI GRAS FUN! by Trina Steffan Sean replied, “It was fantastic. What a wonderful evening of Beads, balloons, beads, good dancing and sharing with friends.” music, beads, great food and more Judy Koziolek took time off the beads were featured at the Parish dance floor to say, “I love to dance Council sponsored Mardi Gras and I don’t get to very often. It was Dance. One hundred-eighty very wonderful to be with people I know festive people attended this event in and to dance...dance...dance... and February. The ministry groups, have fun without the worries.” MOMS, Day Care and Girl Scouts Mudville Grill, Subway, saw to the details. If you haven’t Soloman’s, Publix and Albertsons already heard what a wonderful helped provide a delicious time it was, I’ll provide some assortment of warm and cold hors details! d’oeuvres. “Always ask,” is Donna Patricia Japour, M.O.M.S. Simon’s motto when seeking Celebration Coordinator, and donations. Theresa Little, Day Care Karen Anderson put together a list of volunteers which included the Director, must share the same scouts, who transformed the gym inspiration. She helped acquire an into a glittering atmosphere of impressive list of door prizes that purple, gold and green. Ten foot brought many a smile to the trees with twinkling lights, on loan winners: Jaguar tickets, symphony Charles “Yogi” and Donnell Baer from Eugene and Michelle Norton, tickets, Tree Steakhouse dinners, celebrated his birthday at Mardi Gras surrounded the dancers and festive and gift certificates to the Outback assembly. Gaiety, good food and restaurant, just to name a few.With from “Grease” made more than a some new ones. The beckoning call lots of dancing were on the agenda music from Bourbon St. and Glenn few leather soles tap their toes. of the music filled the dance floor for the evening. Miller, and a variety from Disco to The evening was truly a continuously thanks to a delightful When asked if he was enjoying Country, everyone had their delightful opportunity for everyone DJ. Everyone had a wonderful the evening, Fr. ”Twinkle Toes” favorite music played. The music to share with old friends and make time. May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 11 Moral Truth, Conscience and American Democracy Address of Pope John Paul II to bishops of the United States at their ad limina visit (June 27, 1998) I WARMLY WELCOME you, world, for it is through His grace the pastors of the Church in the that we experience a “radical states of Texas, Oklahoma and personal and social renewal Arkansas, on the occasion of your capable of ensuring justice, ad limina visit. In my meetings so solidarity, honesty and openness.”4 far this year with the United States bishops, we have considered some Today’s cultural crisis calls for principal aspects of the new moral teaching evangelization called for by the Second Vatican Council, the great Given the circumstances of event of grace by which the Holy contemporary culture, your Bishop Larkin, founding pastor of Christ the King Parish, with the Spirit has prepared the Church to episcopal ministry is especially Pope during the early days of John Paul II’s papacy enter the third Christian challenging, and the situation millennium. One essential part of which you face as teachers of moral centuries prior to it never heard of, creatures of a loving God, who this task is the proclamation of truth is complex. Your parishes are and could not have mistaken for it, gave them the capacity to know the moral truth and its application to filled with Catholics eager to lead if they had. It is the right of self- good and to choose it, and who sent the personal lives of Christians and responsible lives as spouses, will.” What was true in Newman’s His Son to be the final and to their involvement in the world. parents, citizens, workers and 19th century is even truer today. unsurpassable witness to the truth Therefore, I wish to reflect with professionals. These men and Culturally powerful forces insist about the human condition: “In you today on your episcopal women, whom you meet daily in that the rights of conscience are Christ and through Christ, God has ministry as teachers of moral truth the course of your pastoral mission, violated by the very idea that there revealed himself fully to mankind and witnesses to the moral law. know that they should live morally exists a moral law ascribed in our and has definitively drawn close to In every age, men and women upright lives, but often they find it humanity, which we can come to it; at the same time, in Christ and need to hear Christ the Good difficult to explain exactly what know by reflecting on our nature through Christ man has acquired Shepherd calling them to faith and this implies. and our actions, and which lays full awareness of his dignity, of the conversion of life (cf. Mk 1:15). As This difficulty reflects another certain obligations upon us because heights to which he is raised, of the shepherds of souls, you must be side of contemporary culture: the we recognize them as universally surpassing worth of his own Christ’s voice today, encouraging scepticism regarding the very true and binding. This, it is humanity, and of the meaning of his your people to rediscover “the existence of moral truth and an frequently said, is an abrogation of existence.”6 In Christ, we know beauty of truth, the liberating force objective moral law. This attitude is freedom. But what is the concept of that “the good of the person lies in of God’s love, and the value of quite prevalent in the cultural freedom at work here? Is freedom being in the Truth and doing the unconditional fidelity to all the institutions that influence public merely an assertion of my will - “I Truth.”7 demands of the Lord’s law, even in opinion, and, it must be said, is should be permitted to do this In this Christian anthropology, the most difficult situations.”¹ The commonplace in many of your because I choose to do it”? Or is the nobility of men and women lies, question posed by the rich young country’s academic, political and freedom the right to do what I not simply in the capacity to man in the Gospel - “Teacher, what legal structures. In this situation, ought to do, to adhere freely to choose, but in the capacity to good must I do to have eternal those who try to live according to what is good and true?5 choose wisely and to live according life?” (Mt 19:16) - is a perennial the moral law often feel pressured The notion of freedom as to that choice of what is good. In all human question. It is asked in one by forces which contradict the personal autonomy is superficially of visible creation, only the human form or another, explicitly or things they know in their hearts to attractive; endorsed by person chooses reflectively. Only implicitly, by every human being in be true. And those responsible for intellectuals, the media, legislatures the human person can discern every culture and at every moment teaching moral truth may feel as if and the courts, it becomes a between good and evil, and give in the drama of history. Christ’s their task is virtually impossible, powerful cultural force. Yet it reasons justifying that discernment. answer to that question - to follow given the power of those external ultimately destroys the personal Only human beings can make Him in doing the will of His Father cultural pressures. good of individuals and the sacrifices for what is good and true. - is the key to the fullness of life There have been similar common good of society. Freedom- That is why, throughout Christian which He promises. Obedience to moments in the course of the as-autonomy, by its single-minded history, the martyr remains the God’s commandments, far from Church’s 2,000-year history. Yet focus on the autonomous will of the paradigm of discipleship: for the alienating us from our humanity, is today’s cultural crisis has individual as the sole organizing martyr lives out the relationship the pathway to genuine liberation distinctive characteristics that give principle of public life, dissolves between truth, freedom and and the source of true happiness. your task as moral teachers a real the bonds of obligation between goodness in the most radical way. In this year of preparation for urgency. This urgency touches both men and women, parents and the Great Jubilee dedicated to the the transmission of the moral truth children, the strong and the weak, Holy Spirit preserves the Church Holy Spirit, let us remember that contained in the Gospel and the majorities and minorities. The in the truth our efforts to preach the Good magisterium of the Church, and the result is the breakdown of civil News and teach the moral truth future of society as a free and society, and a public life in which By teaching the moral truth about the human person are democratic way of life. the only actors of consequence are about the human person and sustained by the Spirit, who is the the autonomous individual and the witnessing to the moral law principal agent in the Church’s Good of the person lies in doing state. This, as the 20th century inscribed on the human heart, the mission.² It is the Holy Spirit who the truth ought to have taught us, is a sure bishops of the Church are “brings about the flourishing of prescription for tyranny. defending and promoting not Christian moral life and the witness How should we define this At its roots, the contemporary arbitrary claims made by the of holiness amid the great variety crisis of moral culture? We can crisis of moral culture is a crisis of Church but essential truths, and of vocations, gifts, responsibilities, glimpse its first phase in what understanding of the nature of the therefore the good of individuals conditions and life situations.”³ In Cardinal John Henry Newman human person. As pastors and and the common good of society. your dioceses and parishes, I urge wrote in his letter to the Duke of teachers of the Church of Christ, If the dignity of the human you to make a special effort this Norfolk: “In this century you remind people that the person as a moral agent rests on the year to increase awareness of the [conscience] has been superseded greatness of human beings is capacity to know and choose what powerful activity of the Spirit in the by a counterfeit, which the 18 founded precisely in their being is truly continued on page 12 Page 12 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999

friendship, work, death. Each of genuine democracy,” for it is continued from page 11 these experiences raises, in its through our common obligation to Pope’s Address unique way, the question of God: these moral norms that we come to good, then the question of Spirit, the Church is preserved in “at the heart of every culture lies know, and can defend, the equality conscience comes into clearer the truth and “it is her duty to give the attitude man takes to the of all citizens, “who possess focus. Respect for the rights of utterance to, and authoritatively to greatest mystery: the mystery of common rights and duties.”18 16 conscience is deeply ingrained in teach, that truth which is Christ God.” American Catholics, in A climate of moral relativism is himself, and to declare and confirm your national culture, which was common with other Christians and incompatible with democracy. That by her authority those principles of all believers, have a responsibility kind of culture cannot answer formed in part by emigrants who the moral order which have their 13 to ensure that the mystery of God questions fundamental to a came to the New World to vindicate origin in human nature itself.” and the truth about humanity that is democratic political community: their religious and moral When the Church teaches, for revealed in the mystery of God are Why should I regard my fellow convictions in the face of example, that abortion, sterilization not banished from public life. citizen as my equal?; Why should I persecution. American society’s or euthanasia are always morally This is especially important for defend someone else’s rights?; inadmissible, she is giving historic admiration for men and democratic societies, since one of Why should I work for the common expression to the universal moral the truths contained in the mystery good? If moral truths cannot be women of conscience is the ground law inscribed on the human heart, of our creation by God is that the publicly acknowledged as such, on which you can teach the truth and is therefore teaching something human person must be “the origin, democracy is impossible.19 Thus I about conscience today. which is binding on everyone’s the subject and the purpose of all wish to encourage you to continue The Church honors conscience conscience. Her absolute social institutions.”17 Our intrinsic to speak out clearly and effectively as the sanctuary of the human prohibition that such procedures be dignity and inalienable about the fundamental moral person: here, men and women are carried out in Catholic healthcare fundamental rights are not the questions facing people today. The “alone with God,” whose voice facilities is simply an act of fidelity result of social convention: they interest with which many of your echoes in the depths of their hearts, to God’s law. As bishops you must precede all social conventions and documents have been received summoning them to love good and remind everyone involved - provide the norms that determine throughout society is an indication avoid evil.8 Conscience is that hospital administrations and their validity. The history of the that you are providing much inner place where “man detects a medical personnel -that any failure 20th century is a grim warning of needed guidance when you remind law which he does not impose upon to comply with this prohibition is the evils that result when human everyone, and especially Catholic himself, but which holds him to both a grevious sin and a source of 14 beings are reduced to the status of citizens and Catholic political obedience.”9 This being the case, scandal. This and other such objects to be manipulated by the leaders, of the essential bond the dignity of conscience is instances are not, it must be powerful for selfish gain or for between freedom and truth. demeaned when it is suggested, as emphasized, the imposition of an ideological reasons. In proclaiming Dear brother bishops, a time of the defenders of radical individual external set of criteria in violation the truth that God has given men crisis is a time of opportunity as autonomy claim, that conscience is of human freedom. Rather, the and women an inestimable dignity well as a time of danger. That is a wholly independent, exclusively Church’s teaching of moral truth and inalienable rights from the certainly true of the crisis of moral personal capacity to determine “brings to light the truths which moment of conception, you are culture in the developed world what constitutes good and evil.10 [conscience] ought already to 15 helping to rebuild the moral today. The call of the Second Everyone must act in possess,” and it is these truths foundations of a genuine culture of Vatican Council to the people of accordance with conscience. But which make us free in the deepest freedom, capable of sustaining God to witness to the truth about conscience is neither absolutely meaning of human freedom and institutions of self-governance that the human person amidst the joy independent nor infallible in its give our humanity its genuine serve the common good. and hope, grief and pain of the judgments; if it were, conscience nobility. It is a tribute to the Church and contemporary world is a call to all would be reduced to the mere to the openness of American of us for a personal commitment to assertion of personal will. Thus it is Objective moral norms are society that so many Catholics in effective episcopal leadership in precisely a defense of the dignity of foundation of democracy the United States are involved in the new evangelization. By conscience and of the human political life. As pastors and focusing the attention of the person to teach that consciences Almost 2,000 years ago, St. teachers, your responsibility to faithful and all your fellow citizens must be formed, so that they can Paul urged us “not be conformed to Catholic public officials is to on the extremely serious moral discern what actually does or does this world” but to live the true remind them of the heritage of choices before them, you will help not correspond to the “eternal, freedom that is obedience to the reflection on the moral law, on to bring about that renewal of objective and universal divine law” will of God (Rom 12:2). In society, on democracy, which they moral goodness, solidarity and which human intelligence is teaching the truth about conscience ought to bring to their office. genuine freedom which the United capable of discovering in the order and its intrinsic relationship to Your country prides itself on States and the world urgently need. of being.11 Because of the nature moral truth, you will be challenging being a realized democracy, but Entrusting your ministry, and the of conscience, the admonition one of the great forces in the democracy is itself a moral priests, Religious and laity of your always to follow it must modern world. But at the same adventure, a continuing test of a dioceses to the protection of Mary, immediately be followed by the time, you will be doing the modern people’s capacity to govern patroness of the United States question of whether what our world a great service, for you will themselves in ways that serve the under the great title of her conscience is telling us is true or be reminding it of the only common good and the good of Immaculate Conception, I cordially not. If we fail to make this foundation capable of sustaining a individual citizens. The survival of impart my apostolic blessing. necessary clarification, conscience culture of freedom: what the a particular democracy depends not - instead of being that holy place Founders of your nation called only on its institutions, but to an Notes where God reveals to us our true “self-evident” truths. even greater extent on the spirit From this perspective, it should 1Veritatis Splendor, n. 107. good - becomes a force which is which inspires and permeates its 2 destructive of our true humanity be clear that the Church addresses Cf. Evangelii Nuntiandi, n. 64. procedures for legislating, 3 and of all our relationships.12 issues of public life not for political administering and judging. The Veritatis Splendor, n. 108. As bishops you have to teach reasons but as a servant of the truth future of democracy in fact 4Veritatis Splendor, n. 98. that freedom of conscience is never about the human person, a defender depends on a culture capable of 5Cf. Homily at Baltimore, Oct 8, 1995. freedom from the truth but always of human dignity and a promoter of forming men and women who are 6Redemptor Hominis, n. 11. and only freedom in the truth. This human freedom. A society or prepared to defend certain truths 7Address to the International Congress of understanding of conscience and its culture which wishes to survive and values. It is imperiled when cannot declare the spiritual Moral Theology, April 10,1986, n. 1. relationship to freedom should clar- politics and law are sundered from 8 Cf. Gaudium et Spes, n. 16. ify certain aspects of the question dimension of the human person to any connection to the moral law 9 be irrelevant to public life. Cultures Ibid of dissent from Church teaching. written on the human heart. 10 Cf. Gaudium et Spes, n. 16. By the will of Christ himself and develop as ways of dealing with the If there is no objective standard 11Cf. Dignitatis Humanae, n. 3; Veritatis the life-giving power of the Holy most profound experiences of to help adjudicate between human existence: love, birth, Splendor, n. 60. different conceptions of the 12 personal and common good, then Cf. General Audience, August 17, democratic politics is reduced to a 1983, n. 3. raw contest for power. If 13Dignitatis Humanae, n. 14. constitutional and statutory law are 14For sterilizations cf. Congregation for not held accountable to the the Doctrine of the Faith, Quaecumque objective moral law, the first sterilizatio, March 13, 1975, AAS [1976], pp. casualties are justice and equity, for 738-740. they become matters of personal 15Veritatis Splendor, n. 64. opinion. Catholics in public life 16Centesimus Annus, n. 24. render a particularly important 17Gaudium et Spes, n. 25. service to society when they defend 18 Veritatis Splendor, n. 96. objective moral norms as “the 19 unshakable foundation and solid Cf. Veritatis Splendor, n. 101. guarantee of a just and peaceful human coexistence, and hence of Reprinted by permission of The Pope Speaks May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 13 Stations of the Cross FISH FRY!

by Linda McCreary At the evening service, those who attended were invited to Stations of the Cross were held “walk” the Stations of the Cross twice each Friday during the with the priest and attendants. Lenten season after the 8:15 a.m. Many people chose to do so, and developed a small procession as by Linda McCreary line. They were earning their Children’s Mass and at 7:00 in the community service hours, and evening. they moved from station to station. A fifteenth station, “the As I approached the Parish Hall looked like they were having fun The morning Stations of the Resurrection,” has been added to on Ash Wednesday, the wonderful doing it! Cross were very humbling as the stations (the Passion of Christ is aroma of frying fish wafted The fish was a whiting filet and children from Christ the King meaningless unless the through the air. Inside the Parish was prepared either baked or fried. I personally indulged in the fried School read passages from the Resurrection is kept in mind). The Hall people were waiting in line for version and it was done to booklet The Way of the Cross. This fifteenth station is said before the the wonderful fish dinner. As a day perfection–crisp and flavorful. booklet is a child’s version which Resurrected Christ at the of fasting and abstinence, this meal Other goodies were baked beans, puts the Passion, Death and tabernacle. was most likely the largest meal of the day for most of the faithful. cole slaw or applesauce, and bread. Resurrection of Christ into words A plenary indulgence may be The food was cheerfully A variety of drinks was available, and examples easily understood by gained by praying the Stations of prepared and served by volunteers. and desserts were sold by Christ the the children. the Cross. Christ the King and Bishop Kenny King School Safety Patrol. High School students were evident It was evident from the noise everywhere behind the serving level in the hall that everyone was Outdoor Stations of the Cross counter assisting with filling the enjoying their fish dinner. We look plates as people passed through the forward to next year’s fish fry!

Seven Last by Ron Lynch discussed. I needed to see the Words stations Father Baker had in mind Tradition, history, and a tie to so the shelters would be large the past are what spurred me to enough. When I saw them, I was by Meredith Reno forsaken me?” wrapped around my construct and install the shelters for surprised to see they were the heart and made me realize that our outdoor Stations of the Cross. stations from the old church, now I sat in the church waiting for what I had been experiencing was During the time I was here as a our cafeteria and added another the Last Seven Words of Christ to in fact, a rite of passage ... a very student in the Sixties, there were link to the early years of our parish. begin, the barrenness of the altar personal Lent. A part of me died outdoor stations where the rectory Fabrication began. echoing the emptiness I felt within. that day, but as a butterfly emerges and the new church now stand. The It wasn’t long before the I wasn’t sure exactly why I had from its dark chrysalis, so did I area was heavily wooded and cut shelters began taking shape. They come, I only knew that I was where emerge from the depths of my through with a small path. Along were installed two or three at a time I was supposed to be. Fr. Carr had loneliness and despair. with the help of my daughters, the path were the Stations of the taken ill, and so I didn’t know what I had said that I was there Elizabeth, Victoria and Allison. Cross, providing a quiet, natural, to expect. With the death of my because I knew that I was supposed The path through the woods where and personal opportunity for father the week before, and the to be, and that proved to be true. seven of the stations are located prayer. The solemnity of the service, was not difficult to cut in one serious illness of one of my followed by the Passion, made me When the land was cleared for afternoon with a hand sling and students, I felt hollow. As the construction, the stations were pruning shears. service began, Fr. Baker’s words realize again what a gift it is to be removed. I had described them to Henry Nguyen installed the made a dent in my emotional one of Christ’s own. The promise Valerie, my wife, a few times and roof shingles and hung the armor, but it was the children’s of Easter, filled me with such a thought that new outdoor stations individual stations inside the choir, the sweetness of their profound joy, not just for me, but could be a positive addition to our shelters. Henry had already coated innocent voices singing out to the for my father, and my student, that parish. them with polyurethane to protect Lord that caused the first tear to the tears were no longer bitter; they The first location considered them from the elements. glide down my face. were tears of faith, hope, and love. was in the woods behind the scout All of us involved in this effort As Fr. Tetlow spoke about the And so it is with utmost joy that hut, but for various reasons was hope you experience the Stations of fourth and fifth words, I was freely I say thank you to Frs. Baker, eliminated as a site. Father Baker, the Cross and enjoy the serenity of crying, and feeling myself being Tetlow, Sean, Carey, Thanh and whose blessing was received for the location. filled once again with a renewed Deacon Dave, as well as the the project, suggested the House of Oh, by the way, I knew the faith, stronger and purer, cleansed children’s and adult choirs. You Prayer beyond the baseball field. It original path well because it was a of all the pain and doubts I had made this Good Friday a part of the was a good selection. great place to hide if I was late for experienced over the last few life blood of my inner faith, and After the site was defined, the Mass on Friday mornings. Until I difficult weeks. Those fourth showed me that I wasn’t lost, only size and style of the shelters was got caught! words, “Father, why have You temporarily sidetracked. Page 14 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 flexibility of schedule that allows Christ the King Courier (CKC) me to work shifts on nights and interviews Dr. Katherine weekends or times when “Dad” can Considine, M.D. be at home. Without question, my family priorities come before work. CKC: When did you start I am greatly blessed with four thinking about a career in beautiful children (ages 6, 4, 2 & 5 medicine? months) and a wonderful husband who is extremely supportive of my Katherine: Actually, I started career. I currently work part-time realizing my interest in medicine and Tracy encourages me to stay early in grade school. I vividly active in my practice. I am, remember enjoying reading however, thankful I can still be at encyclopedias about science and home and available to enjoy my the human body. I found that I was children’s school activities. (To fascinated by the complexity of our coin Dr. Laura’s phrase, “I am my bodies and later wanted to expand kids’ Mom”). The Considine Family this into a career. Of course, in 6th CKC: What does Catholic and 7th grades the mention of schooling mean to the planning to become “a doctor” just Considines? prompted a pat on the shoulder, since it really couldn’t be taken Katherine: As professionals, we seriously at that time. want our children to have a quality academic education and CKC: Was becoming a physician enthusiasm for learning, but as your goal? Christians and Catholics we believe that providing our children with a Katherine: Yes, when I later Catholic education complements decided that my interest lay in this our teaching of the sacraments and area. There was never any doubt in gives a continuity and foundation my mind that I would pursue for the growth of their spiritual medical school, even though many lives, as well as their commitment persons urged me to reconsider, to God, Our Father. citing the length of study and the demands of a physician’ s lifestyle. CKC: Our Savior, Jesus Christ, (Even my grandfather told me to God the Son, was a healer - of consider a more attainable goal, both spirit and health. Does the although my great-grandfather was satisfaction that you have in a physician). saving lives bring you closer to your Faith? CKC: Where did you go to medical school, residency, etc.? Dr. Katherine Considine at home with her children Katherine: Absolutely, and as the years pass I see more that Our Katherine: I attended the Father is the ultimate healer. As a University of Alabama physician, I am only an instrument (Birmingham) for Medical School, through which He works. I am and completed my Emergency always in awe of His power and Medicine Residency at University love as I see Him at work, in times Hospital in Jacksonville in 1986. of both great joy or great sorrow and loss. I am constantly aware of CKC: When did you meet your the precious gift of life, and having future husband? What was his children makes me even more profession? conscious and thankful of my role in restoring or preserving the health Katherine: I met my husband, of loved ones. Each day is truly a Tracy Joseph Considine, on gift from God, which we should use October 31, 1988 in Miami where accordingly and for which we we both lived at the time. He was a should be thankful. young attorney working to build his practice and now has an office in CKC: Any advice to young Jacksonville. We were introduced people on how to determine what at the Vizcaya Mansion Halloween vocation God has in mind for Party by a mutual friend who them? thought we had similar values and Dr. Katherine Considine at work backgrounds. Katherine: Our Father gives us each talents and gifts that are order to grow in spirit, challenges approximately 600 students. When CKC: As an emergency room unique. The importance of a great of life and the Lord’s work in your we published our motto (our physician how do you manage the Christian education is to realize the life. favorite saying), I remember being raising of four children and your fullest potential God has given us. slightly timid about mine because I work schedule? Of course, we must be willing to CKC: Do you have a favorite was never very openly verbal about listen to our Lord speaking to us biblical verse? my faith, and being religious Katherine: In practicality, and calling us to His service, wasn’t exactly ‘cool’. But looking Emergency Medicine is the ideal whether to a vocation in the church, Katherine: With God’s help, I back, it couldn’t be more true today specialty for me, not only because medicine, or wherever He leads us. graduated high school as in my life: Delight yourself in the of my exposure to all ages of It is important to stay in school and valedictorian in Landover, Lord and He will give you the patients and virtually all areas of work hard, and study God’s word in Maryland in a class of desires of your heart (Psalms 37:4). medicine, but also because of the May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 15 How it all Began... The Early Days of Christ the King Parish by Bishop W. Thomas Larkin men of the parish and explained that Founding Pastor we desperately needed a building on the parish property where we could In August 1954 I was home on meet and socialize, but our problem vacation in Mt. Morris, New York. was that we had no money. Jim One evening Archbishop Joseph P. Fogarty, one of the pioneers who had Hurley phoned to tell me that he was been at the first Mass at Jacksonville assigning me to found a new parish University, said that he would in the Arlington area of Jacksonville undertake the construction of a as soon as I returned from my wooden frame building that could be vacation. put together with volunteer labor I knew very little about the and some donations. Jacksonville area, and had no idea Several volunteers working where Arlington was. At the time I Friday night and all day Saturday was assistant pastor at Holy Family under the guidance of Jim Fogarty Parish in North Miami. In the year finished the building in two 1954 the Diocese of St. Augustine weekends. It became known as the embraced the whole state of Florida Clubhouse. For more than 20 years it except the pan handle west of the served as a social hall where we held Apalachicola River. meetings, had Friday night Bingo, Upon my return from Mt. Morris and coffee and donuts on Sunday. to North Miami, I packed all my During Monsignor Danaher’s tenure belongings in my car and headed up the Clubhouse had to be dismantled Route One. There were no to make room for the gymnasium. interstates in those days. In the Once we had a place to meet, the meantime I had phoned Bishop first item on the agenda was to initiate a fund raising program in Thomas McDonagh, Auxiliary Early Days - Father W. Thomas Larkin, STD, founder of our Bishop of St. Augustine, and pastor order to build a combination school parish of St Paul’s Parish in Jacksonville and church. This was completed by Beach. He very graciously invited December 1955. It consisted of 6 me to stay with him until I had made classrooms on the second floor and living arrangements in Arlington. an auditorium on the first floor that I arrived in Jacksonville on served for additional classrooms September 11, 1954 and separated by curtains during the immediately began to drive around week and Mass on Sunday. the Arlington area with Emmanuel In March 1955 we purchased a Danese, a well-known realtor. My three-bedroom house on Mickler first objective was to find some Road just off the parish property. We place where I could celebrate added two offices and this building Sunday Mass (Saturday night served us for almost ten years. Masses were still unheard of). In 1957 we dedicated a Jacksonville University was temporary church and converted the recommended as a possible location, first floor of the two-story building so I visited the President and into classrooms. A second building explained that since I was beginning with six more classrooms was added a new parish I needed a building to in 1959. hold Mass on Sunday. He was most In 1964 the Rectory and offices gracious and offered the use of a were built and we moved from the small wooden frame building on the old residence on Mickler Road into our new home. This completed the (Early Days) Honors at the Altar: Father W. Thomas Larkin and campus that held about 150 people. Scoutmaster R. W. Coyle with boys The first Sunday 125 people building program during my showed up and it was soon evident pastorate. that we would need larger quarters. I It was a sad day for me when I again approached the President who was transferred to St. Cecelia’s offered us the use of the gymnasium Parish in Clearwater. I had been at which served as our church for a Christ the King Parish for 13 years year. We set up a portable altar on and had come to know and love so the gym floor and the congregation many wonderful people. On sat on the bleachers. December 11, 1967 I packed my For week-day Mass I used the bags, loaded the car and with heavy chapel at what was then known as St. heart headed for Clearwater to begin Mary’s Home, a residence for a whole new era in my life. children from broken homes and For twelve years I was pastor of staffed by the Sisters of St. Joseph. It St. Cecelia’s Parish in Clearwater. was located just adjacent to our On May 27, 1979 I was ordained parish property. Sister Miriam Bishop for the Diocese of St. Joseph, the superior, was most Petersburg, in St. Peter’s Basilica, gracious in allowing us to use St. Rome by Pope John Paul II. For Mary’s for our various meetings. reasons of health I resigned as The parish property which was Diocesan bishop in May 1989. Since purchased by the Diocese some then I have kept busy with diocesan years previously was located, as it is ceremonies and pastoral ministry at today, at the corner of Arlington St. Cecelia’s Parish. Road and what is now known as It has been a very fulfilling life Larkin Road. and I am grateful to God and all the Can you identify any these altar boys at Fr. Larkin’s Mass on Soon after I arrived in wonderful people I have met along Palm Sunday? Let Judy at the Rectory know their names (724- Jacksonville I called a meeting of the the way for making it so enjoyable. 0080) Page 16 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 E. McRae Mathis Named Jubilee 2000 Circuit Judge How to Gain Indulgences punishment, either for themselves or for the souls of the deceased. That means that if you were to die at that instant, and were truly repentant and complying with the conditions, you would immediately be united with God. Similarly, if you were worthily obtaining an indulgence for a soul My dear friends, in purgatory, that soul immediately In his document, “The Mystery would be brought to full of the Incarnation,” the Holy Father communion with God. urges us to spend the great Jubilee The Vatican instruction urges Year 2000 repairing our own the faithful “to repeat these visits relationship with the Lord by throughout the Holy Year, since on engaging in acts of penance, prayer each occasion they can gain the and charity. plenary indulgence, although The specific acts are listed in a obviously not more than once a document, “Conditions for Gaining day.” the Jubilee Indulgence,” which was With that caveat, the Church is issued by the Apostolic reminding us that indulgences are Penitentiary, the Vatican office that not a form of magic or superstition, by Staff Reporter Office upon earning his law degree deals with matters of confession but a means of molding our hearts and then joined the State Attorney’s and absolution. Basically, it states and minds. Governor Jeb Bush has named Office in 1976. that plenary indulgences can be Indulgences are tools to help us Christ the King parishioner E. Mathis most recently served as obtained: change our mentalities: from McRae Mathis ,“Mack”, as the Chief Assistant to State Attorney concentrating on ourselves, which th „ By making a pilgrimage to leads us to sin, to adopting the next circuit judge in the 4 Judicial Harry Shorstein. Before that, he specific churches or shrines located Circuit, which covers Duval, Clay headed the Special Prosecution in Rome(including the catacombs), attitude of Christ, which leads us and Nassau counties. Division where he focused on the Holy Land or the diocesan out to other people. Judge Mathis, a 23- year white-collar, consumer and cathedral or a local church or shrine Just as people’s lives are veteran of the State Attorney’s economic crimes, particularly so designated by the bishop (see changed by a Cursillo retreat, a Office, was sworn into office on crimes against the elderly. accompanying box). charismatic prayer experience or a „ By participating, during visit to the Blessed Sacrament, April 29. He was assigned to “Mack” Mathis, 49, is married that visit, in a liturgical celebration Family Court. to Florida Times-Union Senior such as Mass or vespers, or indulgences are meant as a A native of Perry, FL, he Business Writer, Karen Brune spending time before the Blessed metanoia, a moment of repentance. graduated from the University of Mathis, and they have two children Sacrament and ending the In addition to benefiting the Florida and Memphis State at Christ the King Catholic School; meditation with an Our Father, a soul we’re praying for, they are a profession of faith (the Creed) and way to jump-start, or reorder, our University School of Law. He Eric, 11, is in fifth grade and Alex, a prayer to the Blessed Virgin joined the city Consumer Affairs 9, is in the fourth grade. Mary. own spiritual lives. „ To those ordinary ways of The point is to become gaining indulgences the Vatican has habitually virtuous as opposed to added a few others for the Jubilee habitually sinful. That’s a true CHANGE OF HEART 2000, in order to emphasize the change of heart, a true forgiveness spirit of penance and sacrifice of sins and reorientation to God. which the document calls “the Received from Laurence M. Foley window pane and fallen to the heart of the Jubilee”: Is that not the most fitting way Submitted by Thomas “Josh” ground. They huddled together in „ By visiting the sick, the for a Christian to begin the third Porter the snow, trying to figure out what imprisoned, the elderly living millennium of Christianity? to do next. The man felt sorry for alone, the handicapped and anyone else who is in need, “as if making a Archbishop John C. Favalora Mom got up early Sunday the birds. He thought to himself, pilgrimage to Christ present in serves the Archdiocese of Miami. morning and got the kids ready for “The birds could go in our barn, them.” church. Dad sat in the living room, and they’d be warm there.” So he „ By abstaining for at least went outside and opened the door reading his newspaper and looking one whole day from unnecessary Pilgrimage churches to the barn. Then he waited in the consumption of alcohol or tobacco; out at the snow. cold. The birds didn’t move. fasting or practicing abstinence; They’d had the conversation donating money or time to Following are the churches and “I know. I’ll shoo them over to before, but nothing had changed. charitable works that benefit the shrines where indulgences may be the barn door,” the man thought. “Why don’t you go with us this community, in particular obtained during the Jubilee Year But as he tried to herd the birds to abandoned children, young people week?” she asked. He didn’t look 2000. the barn, they simply scattered. in trouble, the the elderly in need In Rome: Basilica of St. Peter in up from his paper. “You know Only after he left them alone did and foreigners in various countries why,” he said out loud and then in seeking better living conditions. the Vatican; Archbasilica of the Most they come back to their spot in the . Holy Savior at the Lateran, Basilica his own mind finished the answer snow. with “A truly great God wouldn’t But good deeds alone are not of St. Mary Major and Basilica of St. The man had one last plan. He Paul on the Ostian Way; Basilica of care about puny humans anyway.” enough. went back in the house and got a the Holy Cross in Jerusalem; Basilica The man replayed the argument in Those wishing to receive loaf of bread. Carefully, he tore off of St. Lawrence in Campo Verano; his mind: “If God is so perfect and plenary indulgences must, at the pieces of bread and made a path to same time, recited the requisite Shrine of Our Lady of Divine Love; great, why would He care about the barn door. But the birds just and the Christian catacombs. helping us? If God is so powerful, prayers (the Creed, the Our Father huddled closer together, ignoring and the Hail Mary) and spend some In the Holy Land: Basilica of the why would He make His son the gift of life which the man was Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem; become a human being? Why time in pious meditation. offering. Similarly, indulgences can only Basilica of the Nativity in would He stoop so low to help Stumped, the man stood be obtained “after worthily Bethlehem; Basilica of the us...if God is really so great.” looking at the birds, wondering just celebrating sacramental Annunciation in Nazareth. The house was silent except for what it would take to get them to confession” and by receiving Holy In each diocese: the local the sound of the logs crackling in safety. He thought to himself, “If Communion “on the same day as cathedral and any other church or the fireplace. From the other end of only I could become a bird and lead the prescribed works are shrine designated by the local bishop. the house came a strange thump. them to safety, then they wouldn’t performed.” The man put down his paper and have to die.” He stopped and Those who fulfill these Reprinted, with permission, from walked down the hall. thought about it again, and finally conditions will receive “full The Florida Catholic (April 8, Outside the window huddled a he understood. forgiveness” of their temporal 1999, p.A21). group of birds. In confusion and The next Sunday, things were fear they had flown into the different. May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 17 Hearing their thoughts and in be part of the Catholic Church from Letters to the R.C.I.A. Team preparation for the Day of the beginning of their young lives. I Recollection and Discernment know I am thankful to have been and Father Carey through RCIA, I have been re- willing to discern at least this examining my own thoughts about portion of God’s plan for me now. I To Father Carey and the RCIA the completion of my candidacy for hope that you will share these Team: February 1, 1999 becoming a member of the Catholic thoughts with Father Baker and the The Saturday of Recollection Church. My initial reasoning for children. They truly have made a was a very meaningful and spiritual Dear Father Carey: becoming involved with RCIA was difference. I am so proud to know day for me as a RCIA candidate. I based on improving my spirituality that someday my children will be felt as if the speakers were talking I would like to take this blessed with a similar preparation directly to me and God was sending opportunity to let you know how To all of the young people for life. me His words through them. The moved I was by the letters Father preparing for Confirmation, I Holy Hour was particularly Baker read during Mass yesterday would like to say, Sincerely, spiritual for me. I felt such peace in from the young men and ladies Thank you. Peg Marshall my heart and love around me in the preparing for Confirmation. The They will never understand how true presence of the Lord. Thank RCIA Candidate thoughtfulness and preparation lucky they are to be part of the you all for your help, your support they had put into this important and your prayers. Catholic Church from the decision impressed me. beginning of their young lives. Dear RCIA Team, and strengthening my relationship I was very touched by your First Reconciliation with Jesus. As I have progressed presentations yesterday at our day through the class, however, I of discernment. I know it is By Wanda Klima Dear God, realize that I was able to do these difficult to stand up in front of a I’m sorry for all my sins. My things in my former church. group of people and tell us of your On Saturday, February 27, question is: I wonder what your face I have since realized that while journey toward Catholicism. It 1999, Second Grade students from looks like. I’m going to say the Prayer I thought those were sufficient made us realize that the journey is Christ the King School, CCD and of Sorrow every night. I can’t wait reasons, God had other plans for not always an easy one, but it is a Morning Star School celebrated until Saturday. me! The question that has flooded journey well worth the time and my prayers is “why the Catholic the Sacrament of Reconciliation effort. I also believe that the people Dear God, Church?” Listening to the letters we befriend on our journey, friends for the first time in preparation for I’ve been praying to you every from the young people, God has made in Christ, are bonds that will their First Holy Communion. night. I am going to have my first delivered my answer. The Catholic last an eternity. All of you are very Father Baker, Father Sean, Father Reconciliation. I might be a little Church has so much more to offer special, each in his or her own way, Thanh and Father Carey were nervous. Can you help me get through than just a place to worship. It is and together form an awesome present to hear confession from the it? I love you a lot. I will never be bad rooted in a rich historical base that team. A team filled with children. Parents were encouraged again. can provide my loved ones and me compassion, understanding, to participate as well. with a foundation for an enriched patients, and love for others. Dear God, The children worked very hard life. It is based in teaching, not only I think that I speak for all the I can’t wait until reconciliation. of Bible verses, and the life of catechumens and sponsors when I to memorize the “Prayer of Do you know what the reconciliation scripture that serve as daily say, thank you for your courage and Sorrow” and to learn a song about room looks like? I don’t. I will have to reminders of the sacrifice Jesus strength to share with us the things the Ten Commandments. They put a lot of courage for some of my made out of His love for me. This that are not easily shared. It shows were a little nervous but the sins. I hope you will forgive me for all spiritual growth is the most us that when you walk with Christ children all stood to recite the my sins. I might be a little nervous but important aspect the Catholic you are never alone and that His prayer and sing the song for Father after we’re done my soul will be Church can offer me. strength can be our strength if we clean. Baker and their parents. Singing I would like to thank you for will only let Him into our hearts. seemed to help calm the butterflies Dear God, guiding me through this period of We thank you from the bottom in their little stomachs! I can’t wait. I hope I don’t sin growth so graciously. To all of the of our hearts for all you have done Afterwards, everyone enjoyed right after. I hope I will like it. I love young people preparing for for us. a reception with cookies, punch you God. Thank you for giving me the Confirmation, I would like to say, and fellowship in the Shirley courage. Thank you for giving me this Thank you. They will never Tom Holton David Hall. The children are chance and for loving me. understand how lucky they are to RCIA Class of 1998 expected to go to reconciliation again before they receive their Dear God, First Holy Communion which is at I wonder what my first Noon today (May 2). Reconciliation is going to be like. I’m excited about First Holy Communion because it’s coming soon. I know the Father Baker shared a few of Prayer of Sorrow by heart. I’m sorry the letters that the children wrote to for being mean to my cousin. Please God about First Reconciliation and forgive me. we have included some here: Dear Jesus, When I go to the Sacrament of Reconciliation please bring the Holy Dear God, Spirit to help me confess my sins. I I already learned my prayer of even know my Act of Contrition. We sorrow. I can’t wait until Saturday! practice in class. Isn’t that great! First Saturday is when I’m making my first I examine my conscience. Then I go reconciliation. I already know what’s into the Reconciliation room and going to happen. The Reconciliation confess my sins. room is really small. I can’t wait until I go. I’m really excited. I’m going to Dear God, have to examine my conscience I am receiving the Sacrament of because I can hardly remember much Reconciliation Saturday. I will go into sins I did. I’m choosing to go face to the Church and examine my face with the priest. I’m not going conscience. When it is my turn I will behind the screen. confess my sins. Father will ask me to say my prayer of sorrow. After that I will drink punch and go home. Dear God, Hi God how are you doing? I am Dear Jesus, having Reconciliation next Saturday. We are going to the Sacrament of Aren’t you happy for me? How is Reconciliation on Saturday. I want to Mary? I hope you will write back to see you in heaven. I can’t wait to go me. to Reconciliation! I love you! Page 18 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 Christ the King Couple Honored

L to R: Howard Sell, Bishop John Snyder and Jean Sell

L to R facing: Pat Thomas, Father Bob Baker, Lee Callahan and Neil Porter L to R: Msgr. James Mennis, Capt. U.S.N., Eileen Porter and Str. Therese Horan by Eileen Porter introduced Father Terrence Their volunteer work included them in her home with barbecues Morgan, pastor of the Cathedral- hundreds of hours spent in service and pool parties. Jean also works as A feeling of love and warmth Basilica Parish who asked the to their churches, hospitals and the a volunteer for the American filled the room at the Catholic Lord’s blessing. Dinner was served community at large. Cancer Society, driving patients to Charities Good Samaritan Awards by the Catholic Youth Group from Jean and Howard have been doctor appointments and to their dinner on February 23rd. The Most Flagler College. Reverend Carl M. members of Christ the King Parish chemotherapy sessions. Jean is a Reverend Bishop John J. Snyder Peters, Music Minister of the since 1966 and have been active in past president of the K-Cees and is awarded plaques to eight “very Ancient City Baptist Church, many areas of the church, as well as still involved in their activities. She special volunteers”. Among those presented a serenade. Ms. Fran in community service. Among their volunteers at Christ the King honored were “two of our own”, Farrell, President of the Board of many contributions, they are both School where she reads to Howard and Jean Sell. The event Directors, introduced Bishop Eucharistic Ministers and ushers kindergartners and helps with craft was held at the Cathedral Parish Snyder, who presented the awards. and Howard serves as head usher projects. Jean frequently opens her Social Hall in St Augustine. The In addition to Jean and Howard, for the parish. home to visiting nuns from other hall was filled with members of the awards were presented to Ann Howard has spent countless parts of the country and from clergy and lay people who came to Breidenstein, Julia Bradford Land, hours working for the St. Vincent Ireland. When we need something honor Howard and Jean and the Martha and Olen Levell, Lillian C. de Paul Society. He is also very done, someone will say “call Jean” other recipients of this prestigious Parker, and Nancy Sola Richmond. active in the Knights of Columbus, and she responds. award. The honorees were from where he serves as an honor guard We are all fortunate to have After an interlude of piano various churches and and works at the St. Francis Soup such a dedicated and music by Mr. Claude Veziau, Mrs. denominations throughout the St. Kitchen. compassionate couple in our parish Rebecca Stringer, Executive Augustine area. The one thing they Jean has a special devotion to and we are privileged to call them Director of Catholic Charities, had in common was their love and the residents of Harbor House, our friends. devotion to people who need help. including entertaining many of Finding Your Roots by Frank Becht American Bechts together, caused Family Group Sheet, which is a assisting individuals in searching me to research my roots. What I method of recording basic family for their roots. One of the largest Have you ever wondered about found surprised me; my research information. Each marriage will sources of genealogical your roots? Everyone has roots that revealed to me that I am mostly initiate a new Family Group Sheet. information in the world is the are calling to be searched. French. Many sources of information Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- Searching for your roots is the No, genealogy is not only an are available. Family Bibles Day Saints, commonly known as study of family ancestry and old folks’ hobby. Many people, provide birth, marriage, and death the Mormon Church, which history, commonly known as young and old, have reason to records. Court records and maintains Family History Centers Genealogy. Genealogy is one of the wonder about and search for their documents are a good source of in most large towns and cities. most widely known and practiced roots. For some, medical history is property and probate tax and You do not have to be a a very compelling reason, still naturalization. Church records also member of the Mormon Church, hobbies in the United States and others want to establish a “sense of are sources for baptism, nor is there a charge for the use of perhaps in the world, for there heritage”, while others just “want christening, confirmation, the facilities. There is a nominal comes a time in everyone’s life that to know.” Your reason may be marriage, and death data. There are charge for rental of film, our ancestry becomes of interest to something else. federal records, such as passenger microfiche and other supplies him or her. It’s easy to begin; simply start lists, military records and census which can be obtained on any In December 1996, upon the with yourself. Develop what is information available. subject or record in most parts of death of my mother, I felt the need called a ‘Pedigree Chart’ which will You do not have to travel far or the world. to find out more about my help you to establish your roots and spend great sums of money to Instant gratification may not ancestors; I’d always thought those of your parents, your access much of the information happen. You must be persistent. myself to be mainly German. That, grandparents and beyond. You need available. Your nearest library is an Many family details are elusive and coupled with having received a to seek names, dates, places and excellent place to start after you hard to find. Be assured, however, letter from Rebecca Steenhoff- relationships in order to complete have searched personal home that great satisfaction comes in Schoonbeek of Belgium, whose the Pedigree Chart. In order to records. There are numerous finding that great-grandparent or mother was a German Becht, develop the Pedigree Chart genealogical societies who whomever else you’ve sought. seeking to tie German and properly you may have to prepare a specialize in promoting and Good luck in your endeavor. May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 19 Christ the King Celebrates Rite of Election Story and photos by Bill Dougherty simpler terms, it is the way people become Catholics, full members of And Jesus said, “Come to me, the Roman Catholic Church. At all you who are weary and find life Christ the King, the process starts burdensome, and I will refresh you. in September and concludes at Take my yoke upon your shoulder Easter time. Meetings are weekly and learn from me, for I am gentle and intended to be interesting and and humble of heart. Your souls interactive. The process starts will find rest, for my yoke is easy slowly with an inquiry or and my burden light.”(Matt. 11:28- introductory phase to let folks get a 30) sense of where the Lord is leading Every year adults are them. The process is for persons welcomed into the Catholic who have not been baptized, and community through Rite of for non-Catholic Christians and for Christian Initiation for Adults Catholics who may not have (RCIA). It is a learning and loving received First Eucharist or process in which conversion of the Confirmation. heart brings the Catechumen or In the spirit-filled RCIA candidate to Jesus Christ who is our journey, there comes knowledge Scott Frye, an RCIA Candidate, signs in the Rite of Election book Lord and Savior. and wisdom for the Catechumens, On Sunday, February 28, three Candidates, and their sponsors. It is during the Mass at Christ the King. Looking on is Mr. Frye’s Catechumens and 22 candidates the building of a bridge that adults Sponsor, Richard Whelan signed a special book for Bishop cross and leads to the light of Jesus John Snyder, affirming their Rite of Christ. Questions are answered, Election into the Catholic faith. prayer is discovered, and hope is RCIA is the process by which found for the future. adults, those who have completed To learn more about RCIA, to their teen years, become Catholic enroll in the program, or to sponsor Christians and/or receive the a RCIA Catechumen or Candidate, Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, call Lyle Stewart (721-2849) or Eucharist, and Confirmation). In Father Carey (724-0080).

The Christ the King Children’s Choir raise their voices to the glory of God during the Mass when RCIA Candidates observed their Rite of Election

The RCIA Core Team calls forth the Candidates and Sponsors for Rite of Election the Rite of Election Catechumens Sponsors

Amy Fallon Brian Fallon Dacia Knowles Elizabeth Doyle-Ledbetter April Matthews Theresa Matthews

Candidates Sponsors Father Brian Carey reads the Michelle Anderson Lee Ann Waters Holy Gospel at Cendry Blanco Florence Whelan the Mass where James Carlson Tom Holton RCIA candidates Paul Case Jennifer Janik participated in George Diaz Bernie Kunka the Rite of Norma Frye Karen Smith Scott Frye Richard Whelan Election Michael Kingry David Stewart Paul Loyd Nguyen Nga Thi Margaret Marshall Chantal Harrington Mary McCall Vicki Stewart Lesley Newman Linda Heying Ray Oxenreider Helen Mead Debbie Padgett Steve & Terri Ryder Tina Plummer Joyce Kunka Tammy Downing Bill Downing Rebecca Schroder Mary Rouse Karen Scott Genny Kalis William Underwood Gayle Underwood Darren Waldeck Donna Joseph Mary Weldon Denice Maciocci Betty Woehrmeyer Marie Stewart Page 20 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999

Father Carey blesses the fire and .... inserts a nail into the Easter candle. Seminarian Brandon Ghiotto leads the procession into a darkened church

With great joy the choirs lift their voices up to the Lord

Father Baker, with the aid of Master of Ceremonies Juan Carlos Ortiz sprinkles holy water to bless parishioners

Candles provide the only light during the first part of the Easter Vigil Mass

The Body and Blook of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Holy Eucharist Father Carey gives the homily during Mass May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 21 RCIA candidates received into the church Easter Vigil honors our Lord Jesus Christ

On April 3, hundreds of parishioners gathered to celebrate the Easter Vigil and welcome new members in the Catholic faith. The Mass started just outside the church, with the blessing of the fire and the Easter candle, as we began to celebrate the passion, death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Following the initial blessings, a procession led by Seminarian Brandon Ghioto entered into a darkened church with only the Easter candle lighting the way. After the Gospel readings, candles were lit by each of the parishioners and Christ the King Church was illuminated with the “Light of Christ.” Father Brian Carey, who led the Mass, told us during the homily of Father Carey baptizes April Matthews during the Easter Vigil Mass the many reasons why it’s good to be a Christian and a Catholic. It was Father Carey who had led the Rite of Initiation for Christian Adults (RCIA) earlier this year and tonight was the night when those who had worked so hard joined Christ the King and our Catholic family. Six were baptized and more than twenty were received into full communion with the Catholic Church and were confirmed this night. (See the RCIA story on page 19.) It was a night of songs, celebration and the love of Christ. Following the Mass, there was great food and rejoicing in the Parish Hall as the newest members of our Christ the King family were congratulated on their tremendous accomplishment.

Holding candles, six Candidates and their sponsors pray during the Baptisamal ceremony

RCIA Candidates and Sponsors with Father Baker and Father Carey Father Carey anoints RCIA Candidate Betty Woehrmeyer gather in front of the altar after the Easter Vigil Mass during the Easter Vigil Mass

(left) Father Carey cuts the cake honoring the RCIA candidates as Lyle Steward, the Core Team Leader, looks on.

(right) There was a scrumptious spread of delights that were enjoyed by all in the Parish Hall following the Easter Vigil Mass.

Story and photos by Bill Dougherty Page 22 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 the Word because it educates us, and effective, sharper than a two- trains us, corrects us, and builds our edged sword. It penetrates and The faith and love in the Spirit. The divides soul and spirit, joint and Holy Spirit was given to us to fight marrow, it judges the reflections sin. When we do something we and thoughts of the heart.” This is New shouldn’t, the Holy Spirit warns us. how much God’s Word is effective. Once we receive the Holy Spirit, In Proverbs 4, it tells us that the our whole life changes. The Holy Word is “life to those that find them Spirit is now active in us. and health to our flesh.” We should Life The Word makes us aware of be the healthiest people alive. by Ann Seravo our inheritance. It is the Word that Living by the Word of God and So... In God’s love; “God so unveils our true relationship to the having life in abundance makes us Our goal in this new life is to loved the world He gave His only Father. This is the reason it is so the healthiest of people. When we witness to the fact that the Good Son” (Jn 3:16) and ... in God’s plan; important to let the Word dwell fail to follow this, something is News is indeed Good News. To let “The abundant life” (Jn 10:10, He within us. We receive all this wrong. the people know that a new life is wants to give us an abundance. precious knowledge when we read So today I tell you, live by the available through a fuller reception God is so great; so loving, so good, and let the Lord direct and guide us. Word and Works of God... and live. and indwelling of the Holy Spirit; that our minds cannot comprehend The Bible will feed your faith Enjoy the new life and enjoy it to help them see that this new life all the good things He has in store and starve your doubts. We must abundantly. centers in a beautiful new for us. It’s hard for some people to put the Word into action. Hebrew Praise God from whom all relationship with the Lord. believe that there is so much for us 4:12 tells us, “God’s word is living blessings flow. Jesus said in John 10:10, “I - just for the asking and by obeying have come so they may have life His commands. Deuteronomy 28 Jacksonville Maronites Meet and have it more abundantly.” This tells us about the blessings and the is one of the most popular scripture curses; all we need to do is follow Bishop Doueihi readings, and it tells us a lot. Our His commands and the blessings walk with Jesus gives us an are ours. You Can be My Valentine Only If You Are A Proud Maronite abundance of grace. It makes us see Why is it that most people are things - problems - more clearly; it not experiencing the abundant life? Submitted by Subdeacon Elias which the parish council and helps us to know who our source Man is sinful and separate from Shami women’s guild members and their is, and it makes our walk with Jesus God, so he cannot know and Article taken from The Maronite spouses were invited. more joyful. God loves us so much experience God’s love and plan. Voice, used with their permission Less than three hours later, it He sent His only Son to die for us Romans 3:23 tells us, “For all have was time for the solemn Liturgy at so we may have this abundant life sinned and come short of the glory This year, just as the Maronite one of the Latin churches in town. He talks about in John 10:10. of God.” Man was created to have Mission of Jacksonville, FL was His Excellency was assisted by Fr. The Father wants all men and fellowship with God, but because getting ready to celebrate the feast George Zina, Administrator, and by women to have this new life. God of his own stubborn, self-will, man of its Patron, St Maron, it was Subdeacon Elias Shami. Ash loves you and has a wonderful plan chose to go his own independent notified of the surprise pastoral Monday services were celebrated for your life. This full life begins way. The result: the fellowship with visit of His Excellency Bishop that Sunday, making this Lent very when we are baptized and take on God was broken. Does this sound Stephen Douedii to Florida. This is special for the Jacksonville the life of Christ. The moment you familiar to some of us? Man the first visit to the Jacksonville community. receive Christ in Baptism, many separates himself from God. The community in thirty years. In keeping with the Lebanese things begin to happen ... only answer to this dilemma is This community of about fifty traditions of slaying a lamb when a Christ came into your life Rev 3:20 Jesus Christ, God’s provision for active Maronite families was Bishop visits one of his Your sins are forgiven Col 1:14 man’s sin. Only through Him can established less than four years communities, one of the parish You became a child of God Jn 1:12 we experience God’s love and plan ago. In 18 months, they have families organized a dinner at the You began a new adventure 2Cor 5:17 for our lives. managed to buy a piece of land, social hall of the church. More than (You’re a new person) And a full life He gives with the and with the guidance of their one hundred parishioners and You experience God’s love and precious Holy Spirit. Yes, this life Pastor, Fr. George Zina, they have friends joined the Bishop for presence in a new way. How? As begins with the Holy Spirit in the committed to building a dinner. God speaks to you, teaches you, sacrament of Baptism. Baptism church/hall before the turn of the Monday morning, and guides you, you experience a brings us into a relationship with Millennium. The final plans should accompanied by Fr. Zina and the new love. Can you think of the Holy Spirit. What are some of be ready by the end of May, and subdeacon, Bishop Doueihi paid a anything more exciting and the ways the Holy Spirit has given construction is scheduled to begin visit to Bishop Snyder of the wonderful that could happen to you us a new life? We enter a new in early July. The Bishop arrived at Catholic Diocese of St. Augustine. than receiving Christ? Thank God relationship with the Holy Spirit the airport on the eve of Valentine’s At the invitation of one of the for drawing us to Him! through Baptism, Confirmation and Day, February 13, 1999 and was parishioners, a business lunch You’ve received these the other Sacraments including greeted by the community’s followed. The Bishop had a chance blessings from God, now what? daily reception of the Holy youngest Maronites who were to meet a group of Maronite Your spiritual growth results in Eucharist, which gives us a daily waiting anxiously with red roses businessmen to discuss different ‘trusting Jesus’... openness with the Spirit. for him. Though the Bishop’s issues related to the Jacksonville 1. You experience God’s love and luggage did not arrive with him, community and the plans to build presence in a new way ~ His the church. Go to God in daily prayer. His Excellency kept his sense of speaking to you, teaching you, humor. Afterwards, the Bishop met Rm 12:12 guiding you. Bishop Doucihi had only sixty- with the women’s guild, Fr. Zina and Subdeacon Shami to share Read God’s word daily; 2. You can pray in a new way. The eight hours allocated to the gift of tongues is a gift of prayer, a Jacksonville visit. The challenge ideas and plans. Next, he met with begin with the Gospel of John. means of spiritual growth; it is the was to mix social and religious, the Parish Council to discuss Spirit praising God with you. business and entertainment previous accomplishments and plans for the future. One clear bey God; moment by moment. 3. You receive the fruits of the activities without exhausting His O Excellency. conclusion surfaced at the end of Spirit which develop within you. Jn 14:21 That evening, a reception and the meeting: the Eparchy’s The fruits are: love, peace, joy, commitment to support and guide itness for Christ by your life banquet was given by the Maronite W gentleness, endurance, goodness, and Lebanese community in the the Jacksonville community in its and your words. faith, meekness, and temperance. Bishop’s honor. The Parish Youth, mission of building a church and Matt 4:19-20 Jn 15:8 (Gal 5:22) wearing traditional Lebanese dress, establishing a Maronite parish, and 4. Gifts of the Spirit: wisdom, presented him with symbolic gifts. the unconditional loyalty and rust God for every detail of your T understanding, counsel, fortitude His biggest smile came at the end fidelity of this community to the life. 1Pt 5:7 knowledge, piety (or reverence), of the presentation when the Maronite Church and its and fear of the Lord. You receive youngest girl in the group representatives. presented him with a bouquet of Later that evening most of the one, or more of these gifts. Holy Spirit: allow Him to control roses and asked him to be her community gathered around its Valentine, but only if he was as Shepherd and its pastor in a and empower your life daily, and We can learn all these new Lebanese restaurant for a Lenten witness. ways by reading the Word of God - proud a Maronite as she. dinner. Gal 5:16-17 Acts 1:8 The Bible. It is important to read The next day one of the families gave a formal lunch to May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 23 Jubilee 2000 Forum at Flagler College

Arch at Flagler College frames Father Timothy M. Lindenfelser, associate pastor, at Cathedral Left to right, Ola Pla, Palm Beach Diocese archivist, Father Terry Morgan, History Forum held Feb. 26-27 in St. Augustine. Cathedral-Basilica pastor, and Jane Quinn, Orlando Diocese archivist.

Above, Father Robert Baker, Ola Pla and Father Terrence Morgan at Parisenne Restaurant, 60 Hypolita, St. Augustine, Florida. There during History Forum at Flagler College.

Right, Father Ed Booth

Dr. Charles Gallagher in Flagler Room, Flagler College, St. Augustine, Florida. Left to right, Father Terrence Morgan, Jane Quinn and Father Robert Charles spoke on Community Pacesetter Baker at evening meal at Parisenne Restaurant, 60 Hypolita, St. Augustine. Archbishop J. P. Hurley by Patti Sloan Florida to the bishops who have led History. The government of Spain Ground: Archbishop Joseph P. the Catholic Diocese of St. knighted him with the Cross of the Hurley.” He provided insight into A two-day forum was held at Augustine. Four topics were Order of Isabel La Catolica. His the years 1940 - 1967 which saw Flagler College on February 26 - covered over the weekend. The talk “Augustin Verot; Five Foot explosive growth in Florida. 27, entitled, “Church Leaders: Spanish Missions of Florida, 1565 - Giant,” was interesting, since Bishop Hurley presided over most Community Pacesetter.” The forum 1763, were addressed by Dr. John Gannon is the author of Bishop of Florida when he was bishop and was part of the Cathedral-Basilica Hann, historian for the Mission San Verot’s biography. was the last one to cover the entire of St. Augustine’s celebration of the Luis archaeological site, “John Moore: The Good Pastor state. During his tenure, he saw the Jubilee Year 2000. It was funded, in Tallahassee. The next three topics and Capable Administrator” was division of Florida into two part, by The Florida Humanities were of three outstanding Bishops: Florida’s second bishop. His role dioceses. Council, highlighting the church’s Augustin Verot (1870 - 1876), the was evaluated by the Rev. Michael Father Baker, former pastor of impact on Florida’s growth from first bishop of St. Augustine; John J. McNally, PhD., professor of the Cathedral and present pastor of 1565 to 1967. The speakers shared Moore, Florida’s second bishop; history at. St. Charles Borromeo Christ the King, attended this viewpoints that attested to the and Joseph P. Hurley, archbishop Seminary, Philadelphia. Bishop historic event at Flagler College widespread influence of the and builder from 1941 - 1967. John Moore had much work to do Church’s leadership. The forum Dr. Michael V. Gannon is a after the major groundbreaking Information for this article was was under the direction of Fr. professor of history at the efforts of Bishop Verot. taken from a telephone interview with Timothy Lindenfelser, associate University of Florida, where he Dr. Charles Gallagher, archivist Mr. Lucas and a St. Augustine Record pastor of the Cathedral. teaches the history of Florida. for the Diocese of St. Augustine, article written by Natalie and Tommy The topics ranged from the Gannon has received many prizes Jacksonville, presented his Lucas, used with their permission. Cathedral’s religious roots in and honors for his work on Florida discussion, “ Building Upon Good Page 24 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999

Vocations:

Everyone’s Call We are called to join with God in God’s grace through jesus Christ loving and serving God and in loving (Ephesians 4:13). and serving other people. There must Doing the will of God involves be unity of our human will and the will discipleship (Luke 9:57-60). He calls by James Scott for a renunciation of earthly goods of God. St. Paul’s first letter to the when these become an obstacle to Corinthians (12:12-25) calls us to entry into the Kingdom. Throughout In St. Luke’s Acts of the Apostles Vocation is closely related to unity with Christ and unity with each the Sacred Scriptures God wills (18:1-5) St. Paul leaves Athens and is discipleship. Both vocation and other regardless of our differences or nothing for God’s self, nothing for headed for Corinth when he meets two discipleship are processes that involve any differences we have with Christ. God’s own advantage, for God’s co-workers, Aquila and Priscilla. God’s call (election), a response on the In Ephesians 4:1-6 a series of “one- greater glory. God only wills for These co-workers shared in St. Paul’s people’s advanctage, for our true part of the hearer that entails formulas” is introduced to describe the profession of tentmaking. Some exceptional transcendence and dignity. detachment from the world, and then components of the Christian calling: scholars suggest that St. Paul used his the act of doing God’s will in This then is God’s will: people’s well- one body, one Spirit, one hope, one workplace, in addition to the convenantal relationship with God. being. This is what God wants of us Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one when God calls us to vocations. God synagogue, to practice his ministry of The call to vocations and to preaching about Jesus and the God. wants that we should, with our total discipleship is a call to share in Jesus’ selves, respond in a way that elevates Kingdom of God. Clearly, St. Paul We are free to choose our response destiny as described in John 12:26. us, expediting us to enter the Kingdom used every aspect of his life to respond to the call of God. We are free to The call to discipleship and to of God. God’s will is a helpful, to the call of God and to the calling to vocations is a call to the imitation of choose in an ultimate way who we wish to be, persons either open or healing, liberating, saving will. God partnership. The alignment of our total Christ (John 13:15). wills life, joy, freedom, peace, closed to the mystery of life. Deciding selves to the call of God is vocations. In Mark 1:16-20 Jesus takes the salvation, the final, great happiness of In the book Becoming Adult, initiative in going out to recruit who we wish to become is inseparable man: both of the individual and of Becoming Christian, James W. Fowler disciples. The disciples, who were from choosing our relationship with humankind as a whole. describes vocations as “the total practicing their professions, were God. In affirmatively answering the Fowler concludes his discussion of response a person makes whith his or chosen by Jesus in the same way that call of God, we are allowing ourselves vocations with the contrasting idea of her total self to the address of God and ancient Israel had been chosen by God to be ‘defined’ not only by our desires destiny. Fowler’s concept of vocation to the calling to partnership.” Let us to enter into a special people-forming, or our self-chosen actions, but also by exactly describes the response of St. Paul in Acts of the Apostles. All briefly explore a number of vocation-establishing call to a the Mystery of God who desires to be components of Fowler’s concept of the atmosphere, horizon, and final goal aspects of St. Paul’s life, from career to covenant relationship. This special ministry, are brought to answering the Christian vocations: human calling, of all our life experiences. relationship between God and people call of God. Every act he performed, the response, convenantal relationship/ is a call to unity in mission and Fowler explains that in responding to the call we are simultaneously every thought and prayer, was partnership, God’s will and destiny. existence. intended to answer the address and choosing who we are to become and strengthen a covenantal relationship. definging our relationship with God. Christian discipleship and vocations “The shaping of vocation as total demand a total commitment on the part Memories of a C.C.D. Teacher response of the self to the address of of its members, it “draws on sources God involves the orchestration of our that favor the idea of destiny as seen leisure, our relationships, our work, largely through the lenses of by Lucille Guzzone speaking of apparel, does the our private life, and of the resources nineteenth-century romanticism- teacher dare ask the boy who is we steward, so as to put it all at the inspired idea of self-actualization with Any teacher can tell you that wearing the metal chain around his disposal of God’s purposes in the the ancient notion of destiny.” This her job is far from being an easy neck to remove it for fear that he service of God and the neighbor.” A definition speaks of “a sense of one. A regular teacher has a few may choke himself to death? vocational response involves every unique, special potential and of unique perks, however. She usually has her Then again, he may not even aspect of our lives being aligned and responsibility and burden.” own classroom which she realize that she is addressing him put at the disposal of God, to be of Such a narrow definition of organizes and decorates according because it is now after Christmas service to God and neighbor in way destiny makes “the fundamental to her subject matter and holidays, and she just cannot recall that is dictated by our partnership with motives and strategies of vocation personality. She prepares material his name. And when the activity God. In Luke 5:1-11 Jesus enlists Peter different from those of the strategies of according to the number of pupils calls for group work, Heaven as a helper in his kingdom activity and the realization of one’s destiny. she has, she usually memorizes forbid that the teacher assign calls Peter, James, and John to follow Destiny becomes self-fulfillment and students’ names by at least the first anyone from James Weldon his kingdom lifestyle. Their response the work of self-actualization consitute month, and in the morning she Johnson Academic Magnet School is total as they abandon all for Jesus. the prime reason for living and the greets well groomed and well with anyone from Arlington Being in partnership with God goal of all striving. The intent of Middle School! destiny becomes self-serving, rested children who are ready to means being in a covenantal I am one of these ‘night school’ separating us from community and take on the day’s lessons. But these relationship with God through Christ. teachers, and although I am intimacy, and from commitments to advantages are practically occasionally challenged by these In a relationship which is centered on causes whose worth transcends our nonexistent for the sometimes minor obstacles, I approach them faith, actions are performed out of love own.” The narrowness of the frazzled C.C.D. instructor. with a sense of humor. Most of the rather than obligation. The need to beneficiary of destiny is what contrasts She meets with her little angels times I rush through as much express love for God will Fowler’s definition of destiny with only once a week at seven in the material as I can in the allotted hour automatically generate good works. A vocations: the beneficiary of vocations evening, and in the middle of the and only hope that the class retains faith relationship to Jesus Christ is is the community and the individual; school week. Occasionally, they the important points of their distinguised from a merely historical the beneficiary of destiny is the come to class with red ears from religious instruction. or a merely ‘human’ relationship to individual only. We are called in their mom’s pulling and tugging This past February I was very Jesus. We show our love for God vocations to imitate the destiny of them. Once in the room they must proud of my students as they Christ; we are called to God in constantly be reminded not to put through acts which are not primarily received the sacrament of aimed at giving us self-gratification community. their hands in the desks of the Confirmation. With just one Fowler’s concept of vocation but are aimed at serving God and daytime students. Directions are rehearsal with the Catholic school exactly describes the response of St. serving neighbor. From the standpoint repeated over and over again for children, they looked beautiful, Paul in Acts of the Apostles. All those late comers who rush in from carried themselves well and spoke of vocation, fulfillment, self- aspects of St. Paul’s life, from career to soccer practice, band rehearsal, a to the Bishop with confidence. actualization, and excellence of being ministry, are brought to answering the science fair, or a late football game. Some of my pupils still cannot are by-products of covenant call of God. Every act he performed , Not only are these kids remember that the initials, C.C.D. faithfulness and action in the service of every thought and prayer, was exhausted from a full day of ‘real’ mean Confraternity of Christian God and the neighbor. The secret of a intended to answer the address and school and the extra curricular Doctrine. That is O.K. with me, true covenantal relationship with God strengthen a covenantal relationship. activities that go with it, but however, because in my class it is coming to a mature stage in our faith Christian discipleship and vocations sometimes they are wearing the stands for young ‘Catholics development where we fully accept demand a total commitment on the part playground on their clothes. And Celebrating Dedication.’ of its members. May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 25 Blessings Come in Using One’s Gifts “How the Lord has worked in my life” by Natalina Rodriguez myself contributing to a local arts receive the reward of knowing climax her perceptions. She oriented publication. The stellar success. It still amazes me that He decided to collect her works and Natalina Rodriguez wrote for opportunity was bestowed upon me always allowed the praises to fall apply them toward the earning of a “Cathedral Times”, Cathedral when still another friend, on the squarely upon me, when I knew Scout badge. On being told of one Parish, St. Augustine when Fr. mere basis of my passing comment deep in my heart that it was an further requirement, that is, the of “enjoying writing,” offered my innate aptitude called “The Grace conferring with someone who is Baker was pastor there. name to our pastor, who was in the of God”. already a writer, she immediately process of reviving the parish My most recent gift has come and triumphantly proclaimed badge Creative writing has been both newspaper and in need of within my own family. My approval, as she exclaimed, “I’ll an emotional and a recreational volunteers as feature story writers. granddaughter, age 7, enjoys talk to Grandma!” outlet for me for years that stretch I spent more than 10 years writing and telling stories. Her 3-4 Many are the blessings He back to times even before my life as covering varied parish activities, sentence compositions do bears... a teenager, when this realization interviewing clergy and nuns, as surprisingly present, develop and actually came to me. Apparently I well as laity, while managing to had progressed from the frail and insert many of my own personal timid child, whom an older brother creations. Meantime, our local Liturgical Conference diligently walked to and from newspaper printed a few of my school, to a stronger, more contributions to their annual adaptable adolescent who, by high Christmas story contests. I never Jubilee 2000 school days, had discovered a won first prize there, but I was wonderfully unexpected ability to content with the feeling that I was stir feelings in others through the publicly helping “to put Christ back jotting down of thoughts, into Christmas.” experiences and observations about Since my writing experience life around me. has been based solely on my own My discovery came with a development (or was it?), I felt in ninth grade English class need of tremendous help in forming assignment, which was to write the best, the true picture of events about a personal encounter. for the benefit and enjoyment of the Everyone steadfastly endured the readers. Prayers before, during and reading of each other’s after each composition, composition with polite yet accompanied by the strains of taped definitely strained patience. I Gregorian chants in the dreaded my turn but did background, surely are responsible courageously answer the call. for the fine comments reaching out I, today, have no remembrance to me from all sides. It was a of what I had written back then, but somewhat frightening realization as I do recall that I read on and on, not well as a mind boggling daring to look up until just before responsibility to continue listening, by Judy E. Koziolek Kearney led the workshop. Who my last paragraph, when the bell observing and putting down on rang to end class. I stopped, since I would have thought that a lecture paper all the stories so that others I wasn’t quite sure what I on Stewardship would have fully expected my friends to jump might learn of happenings and up, as was our custom, and shuffle expected when I attended the everyone in tears! I don’t know experience involvement. As each Liturgical Conference that was quite what I expected but it surely off to the next study period. As I assignment did develop, and I felt hosted by Christ the King Catholic wasn’t that! glanced up, I realized that no one the sweet sensation of Church. I received my registration Nancy’s lecture was about had stirred. They were waiting for accomplishment, invariably, as form via Bernie Sans who stated sharing your gifts with others. She the ending of my story! Pleased acceptance followed, there was the emphatically to my question as to shared with us some of her with this new-found power, I read resultant guilt-filled reflection, “oh my conclusion, enjoyed their whether or not I should attend with experiences as she grew in love and ye of little faith...” faith in the Lord. Her words stirred smiles of approval, and sent them During those years of prolific ‘the Bishop encourages everyone happily on their way. to attend.’ I guessed that the heart. She spoke of giving writing, I grew not merely in ability gratefully and how this affected her From that point on, still not but in knowledge through the ‘everyone’ included me so I filled fully understanding the source of out my registration, chose relationship with God. By the time tremendous wealth of contacts both she finished, she had us all crying! this explicable gift, yet fleetingly lay and religious. As I have pointed Stewardship and Parish Staff as my thanking God for my successes, I workshops, and gave my form and Becoming involved in your out in the past, I feel privileged to Church is stewardship. Loving went on to provide literary money to Bernie. have had these relationships. your neighbor is stewardship. contributions to high The entire weekend amazed Furthermore, in some instances, as Donating your treasure to the school and college me! The workshop began on Friday I would proofread an article I Church is stewardship. What publications. I never kept copies. I wrote, I actually could not recall evening, January 29 and ended on felt I could always create more. impressed me the most was the fact ever having written some of the Saturday afternoon. They even that she spoke of “love”. That is the It was not until many, many thoughts as they appeared there on assigned a signer, Kathleen years later, when retirement and power behind stewardship; not my paper. A gasp of thanksgiving Bodolay from the School of the money. If we are cheerful widowhood reaped intense changes usually followed. Deaf and Blind in St. Augustine to in my life, that I earnestly searched givers...we are giving from the Now that the years have passed help the hearing impaired. heart, and love accomplishes so for this ability as a sort of calling. I and words are slower in coming to On Saturday morning I found found myself coping with grief and much more. I believe that is what mind, I find myself reflecting on out that my first workshop (Parish God wants from us. He wants us to difficult adjustments through what, the wonders of my/His writing Staff) had been canceled due to by that time, was a latent creative love so much that we are willing to accomplishments. Although I am lack of interest. Momentarily I was give so that others can experience writing outlet. I began to sense the no longer consistently contributing at a loss as to what I wanted to do gentle touch of a Helping Hand that God’s saving Grace. to any one publication, blessings next. There was a list of 17- The Church has given us a was leading me to answer every continue to flow. To tell the different workshops to choose opportunity for literary wonderful gift this coming year. complete truth, it might be noted from; two of which were canceled contributions that I could find Pope John Paul invites us all to that each of the publications, except either due to lack of interest or the around me. prepare for the Jubilee Year 2000. for our city newspaper, for which I presenter couldn’t come, and one Bishop Snyder has made available A very close friend, a very have written, no longer is in print. thoughtful friend, organized an of the workshops was for Priests. I to us conferences, concerts, and That, however, for me personally is decided to relax and pray and listen workshops to help us accomplish informal writer’s workshop for inconsequential, since God, critiquing one another’s work. to the music in the church until this goal. I hope everyone takes through the readership, provided lunchtime. advantage of this opportunity Their approval and encouragement me with the means to satisfy a stirred my energies, and I found After a nice lunch I went to the during the year. God is calling us! yearning to tell my stories and even workshop on Stewardship. Nancy Are we listening? Page 26 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 Valentine Party MOMS Ministry and Fashion Show

Donna Simons, new regional MOMS Coordinator for the Diocese of St. Augustine, introduces Carol Ann Black as new MOMS Coordinator for Christ the King Catholic Church by Trina Steffan Again we congratulate these women who gave themselves the MOMS had a special cause for gift of time to benefit from MOM: “Celebration” on March 18th. A Personal Journey. I asked Nineteen new Ministry of Mothers several of these ladies to comment Sharing “Celebrates” were on what they felt about the congratulated at a dinner in their “Journey.” honor. They celebrated their Karol Saffer said, “ MOMS completion of the spring session. was a wonderful journey through Also attending were guest speakers self-awareness, self-acceptance, Jeanette Ghioto, director of and spirituality. Mary Mollenhour Catholic Charities and Coordinator expressed that, “MOMS was a of Parents for Life. Father Sean, Fr. wonderful, challenging, Than, Fr. Gerry, Sister Therese, and experience. MOMS has helped me Sarah Duncan and Lori Hodges model fashions from Carlos Ortiz. Fr. Sean was to grow spiritually and emotionally. overheard complimenting the It has left me with a great sense of Peturnia Patch Christ the King women, “they peace and GREAT NEW by Emma Duncan presented by Petunia Patch. always provide such a wholesome FRIENDS.” Maria Guida said, “It Beautifully wrapped door prizes and delicious assortment of food has made me a better mom. I’m were awarded, and everyone had an when they get together. I am glad more in touch with my inner Christ the King Council of they remembered me.” feelings and have become much Catholic Women presented their enjoyable day playing cards and visiting with friends. This is only Guest speaker, Jeanette Ghioto, more patient.” 8th annual Valentine Luncheon & one of our many activities planned shared her experiences of Fashion Show on February 13th in parenting. She delighted MOMS The morning participants were: each year. If you are interested in Donnell Baer Gisselle Bejarano the Parish Hall. Everyone enjoyed with personal tales of her most joining the Council, contact Helen joyful moments and the Maria Guida Ann Franklin the boxed lunches catered by (724-0982) or Pat (399-3198) to challenging ones that can Mary Mollenhour Cassy Morency Jason’s Deli. Parish members learn more about our many sometimes cloud our joys. She MercedesSmith Karol Saffer modeled attractive clothing activities. encouraged us to pray to God for guidance in even the smallest of The evening participants were: Knights of Columbus... things and with our children. Good habits are remembered when Marie Boyd Lucy Essick established early in life, especially Debbie Garbade Rhonda Girdina Vows of Renewal when they are founded on God’s Prudentiana Hogan Cathy McClellan point of view. Jeanette was a great Susan Pollett Susan Saad by Eileen Porter occasion. Some had been married inspiration to everyone. We thank Megan Stone Jo Thomas just a few years, others for 30, 40, her for sharing herself and her Sharon Williams It is always a special event or 50 years or more. All shared the children’s lives with us. when the Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus Chapter 4727, Msgr. common purpose of renewing their M.O.M.S. - An Open Door Mortimer Danaher, celebrates First commitment to each other and to Friday Mass for the Knights and their God. by Mercedes Smith could carry on some adult conversations. their Ladies. However, it was Since families are a cornerstone especially meaningful on February When one door closes, another MOMS has changed my whole of the Knights of Columbus, this outlook about my spirituality, my 5th when during Mass, Msgr. one opens. That’s what I feel was a fitting demonstration of their MOMS ministry has provided for attitude about myself, and the Danaher asked the married couples importance of being a full-time present to hold hands and repeat devotion. me - an open door. When I decided An informal evening with homemaker. I was able to laugh, their marriage vows. to stay at home full-time and take cry and express my feelings with There were about 35 couples refreshments and fellowship care of my children, and devote other women who share my beliefs who renewed their vows on this followed the Mass. myself to my family; I felt alone. and values. God has a purpose for Then I read in the bulletin that a us all, and MOMS has made me Church Bells Ringing new MOMS group was forming realize my purpose: nurturing my God is Calling His Children and my husband encouraged me to family. I realize I am not alone and go so that at least, for two hours, I I am loved. Come my children come, Come and worship Me Come my children come, Come and praise Me Evening M.O.M.S. For I have given you my all. My table is spread before you by Trina Steffan MOMS is a wonderful opportunity Come and dine with Me, Come my children come to share your thoughts, both written Cast aside all bitterness, wrath and anger, Evening MOMS began the and verbal, spirituality and clamor and evil speaking. winter session on Thursday, fellowship. Thank you ladies for Be kind to one another, tenderhearted and forgiving th participating in MOMS. Our February 4 and held their participants included Rhonda Be filled with divine Love. Celebration on Thursday, March I love you with an everlasting love. th Giardina, Marie Boyd, Cathy 18 . The facilitators for this McClellan, Prudentiana Hogan, Come my children come, Come and worship Me session were Linda Dixon, Judi Come my children come, Come and praise Me Debbie Garbade, Jo Thomas, Jeffas, and Mitzi Vergenz. How fast Sharon Williams, Susan Saad, Come my children, come. two hours go by! The ladies who by Ann Seravo Megan Stone, and Susan Pollett. It participated were all so interesting. was great being a group! May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 27

STEWARDSHIP WORKSHOP L’Arche Harbor House ROMAN HOLIDAY Yard Sale

Father Bob Baker, Sissy Keegan, Pat Thomas, Gloria Nebrich, Grace Berkey, and Jane Middleton Barbara Chastang (Harbor House Core Member), shows Father by Eileen Porter returned from an international Brian Carey new dalmations stewardship convention in Rome, Red checked tablecloths and the Italian theme seemed aprons, lighted candles dripping appropriate. Guests enjoyed wine onto wine bottles, enlarged and cheese prior to a delicious photographs of scenes in Rome and Italian dinner served by some Assisi, Italian flags on the wall and “Real Italians,” young men from the aroma of Italian food served as the St. Vincent de Paul farm in St. the theme for our “Roman Augustine. Holiday.” This workshop served as the The occasion was the Bishop’s debut for the Bishop’s Stewardship Stewardship Workshop held on film. The Most Reverend Bishop January 19, 1999, in the Shirley John J. Snyder, and the Diocesan David Hall. Stewardship Director, Mr. Francis The workshop is an annual Scholtz, spoke to the assemblage of event hosted by various churches pastors and members of diocesan Core Member Kathy Vallencourt and Auxiliary President Dolores throughout the St. Augustine parish stewardship committees. Bianco sort items for sale diocese. This year Christ the King Materials for the Bishop’s Appeal was the host parish. Since our were also distributed at the by Dolores Bianco to grow and become all that God present pastor, Fr. Robert Baker, workshop. Pat Thomas, Christ the calls them to be, need to feel the our retired pastor, Msgr. Mortimer King’s stewardship director, spoke Christ the King’s outreach acceptance and support of those Danaher and stewardship briefly. The evening concluded comes in many forms and this was around them. Volunteers such as chairman, Pat Thomas ~ along with with the guests singing the quite evident recently at L’Arche these good friends help us live up representatives from other parishes stewardship song accompanied by Harbor House’s annual yard sale. to the ideals of the International in our diocese ~ had recently Mr. Scholz at the piano. Not only did parishioners help Charter of L’Arche which states: make the event a success by “L’Arche is deeply concerned by responding generously to a request the distress of people who suffer made by Harbor House in the injustice and rejection because they Diocesan Stewardship Day parish bulletin for donated items, are handicapped. This concern but several parishioners got should compel the communities of by Eileen Porter from Owings, Md. His subject was: personally involved by L’Arche to do all they can to defend “Hospitality, Spirituality and volunteering their time and talent. the rights of people with a mental The Diocesan Stewardship Day Stewardship - the Foundation of Among those helping were Fr. handicap, to support the creation of was held at the Baymeadows Vital Parish Life.” Fr. Paul spoke of Carey with his donation of items places of welcome for them, and to Holiday Inn on March 9. There the importance of the various and his presence of good cheer; Pat call on our society to come more were 25 members of Christ the ministries in the parish. He Setser of CKCCW Circle #5 who just and respectful toward them.’” King Parish attending, with about particularly stressed the importance helped set up, sort and sell; school Dottie adds, “We are most 200 other people from throughout of Small Groups. At the conclusion Principal Janet Morton, who grateful to Christ the King for the St. Augustine Diocese and a of Fr. Paul’s speech, the two recently joined the Harbor House sharing your concern and number of people from Georgia. speakers responded to questions Auxiliary; and Dolores Bianco, supporting the men and women of Those present from Christ the King from the participants. At the member of the Harbor House Harbor House with your included members of the clergy, conclusion of the question and Board of Directors and President of acceptance and welcome, your gifts members of our Stewardship answer period, lunch was served. the Harbor House Auxiliary. of love and friendship. This was Committee, as well as Following lunch the attendees Sponsored by the Auxiliary, evident too during Lent when our representatives from our school. had the choice of five workshops to over $1,000 was raised through this core members and assistants were The program opened with attend. These workshops were on hands-on work while everyone had welcomed and treated to the welcoming remarks and prayer by various subjects relating to a good time, too. One hundred delicious fish fry dinners. Thank the Most Reverend Bishop John J. stewardship. Among the workshop percent of the proceeds benefit the you for your living the Gospel so Snyder. The first speaker was the leaders was our own Pat Thomas, life time commitment made to the fully: “When you hold a banquet, Most Reverend Bishop Robert whose subject was, “Formation of disabled men and women of invite the poor, the crippled, the Morneau, of the Diocese of Green Stewardship Committees.” Fr. Ron Harbor House. “While home life is lame, the blind; blessed indeed will Bay, Wisconsin. He spoke on the Camarado, an associate pastor at at the heart of all L’Arche you be because of their inability to subject: “Gifts of Stewardship and St. Catherine’s Parish, led an communities,” Director Dottie repay you. For you will be repaid at the Jubilee Year.” Bishop Morneau interesting workshop on ways to Klein said, “It is important for us to the resurrection of the righteous.” is a gifted speaker and discussed convey the stewardship message to be a part of parish life and of the Luke 14: 13-14 how stewardship touches every children. Others workshop leaders larger community of Jacksonville.” Volunteers who want to become area of our lives ... it is a whole way were John Milani, Nancy Kearney She explained that the core a friend and/or join the Auxiliary of life ... the way of Jesus. and Dannete Good. Following the members (the disabled members) are always welcome; please call A second talk was from the conclusion of the workshops, the and the live-in assistants need Dottie at 744-4435 or Dolores at Reverend Fr. Paul Dudziak, pastor meeting was adjourned. relationships with this larger 743-4999. of The Church of the Good Shepard family. The core members, in order Page 28 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 Knights of Columbus... Make Me a Spoon, Lord submitted by Marge Heater big,” says the knife. Slice. Cut. Fourth Degree Exemplification Chop. Dice. Everything must Did you ever compare your change its shape to satisfy the Catholic Christian service to whim of the knife. Nothing is right silverware? as it is. Everything needs paring All silverware is made to serve, down, carving, or separating. but the different pieces serve in Spoons serve. Cereal, soup, different ways. peas – all the impossible foods can Forks stab, “This is mine,” they be handled comfortably. “Here, let say. Bits of meat, carrots, pickles, me help you. We can manage salad and cheese. “This , this and this are mine.,” says the fork. together.” “Everything for me, me, me.” And All the utensils may be soon every last morsel on the plate necessary at times, but who wants has been pinioned by the spear of to always be cutting and stabbing? the selfish fork. Knives cut. “Too Make me a spoon, Lord! SINGLE AND SINGLE Pat Bianco AGAIN

Regis O’Connell followed by Clarence Casterlin

by Dolores Bianco When men join the Knights of Columbus they are accepted as first Ten Christ the King degree members. They then by Leroy Garvin dressed in poodle skirts and the parishioners became fourth degree advance with the help of their men in jeans and t-shirts. members of the Knights of brother Knights to the second and The Single and Single Again Our Saturday night dances have Columbus in a ceremony third degrees. With each degree Ministry is off to a great start for been great and a lot of fun for the November 28 at the Radisson Inn comes a larger involvement in the in Jacksonville. Holy Trinity 1999. We have some great things 200 plus singles in the Jacksonville organization and in their Assembly 2368 received Pat planned for our Tuesday night area who attend. The Singles commitment to the Lord. Ministry was able to donate $400 to Bianco. Those received into Ponce meetings, including speakers, game de Leon Assembly 0152 include: the St. Vincent de Paul Society nights, and line dance lessons. Clarence Casterlin, George Coseo, Fourth degree is the highest during the month of March; this order Knights may achieve and We will continue to have dine John Faustini, John Fuata, Regis amount was matched by the O’Connell, Martin Polsenski, those men who have this honor outs, bowling nights, movie nights, Feinstein Corporation, thus Lance Simons, Lyle Stewart and conferred on them are deserving of a pool party and picnics during the enabling us to help the less Michael Yarborough. our congratulations. upcoming weeks and weekends. fortunate through the St. Vincent de Our game nights are a great Paul Society. Widow/Widowers success. We break into small Our next dances are: groups to play board games or card * Friday, May 14th at the Fleet Support Group games. We have been averaging 25 Reserve on Collins Road from to 30 members and have played 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. th Scrabble, dominoes, and many * Saturday, June 5 at the by Isabelle Fusco You are welcome. Try us out... we needs you. We learn that life different card games. Knights of Columbus Hall on What happens now? “I feel so goes on and so must we... Why not Another Tuesday night favorite Hendricks Avenue th alone, what can I do to get through help us ‘bind each others wounds.’ is the line dance lessons. Many * Saturday, July 24 in the Kingdome at Christ the King this experience?” You are not Take a chance... begin the come to learn the new steps and Church alone. Jesus said, “I will never adventure of healing by being a some come to cheer on those who We would like to thank leave you or forsake you.” You part of our group. We meet every attempt to line dance for the first nd everyone who has worked so hard have some wonderful church 2 Tuesday a 10 a.m. in the time. But all come to meet and to make the Single and Single family members who are willing to rectory. God promises blessings to socialize with friends, new and old. Again Ministry a success. With the meet with you. Most of these those who have love for one Our most recent dance was a help of God, and the continued people you may already know. another. Sock Hop. The music of the 50s support of Christ the King Church Some of them are eager to meet If you have any questions, and 60s was played by our favorite and our members, we will continue people who like them, are in the please call Isabelle Fusco at 724- DJ Grover Howard. The majority to reach out to those who are single healing process after losing a loved 5186. of single women attending were or single again. one. May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 29 St. Francis Soup Kitchen Camaraderie and Hard Work by Jim Claxton and also many petitions. We also pray for world peace and for world On the Fourth of July 1979, hunger relief. Mary Korson of Jacksonville, Among the many clients who Florida initiated the opening of a come to the kitchen there is a man soup kitchen for the destitute and named Roger who is mentally homeless. Situated at the corner of deficient. He pushes a grocery cart Church and Newnan Sts. in with articles he has picked up. One midtown Jacksonville is “St. Friday in December I said to Mary Francis Soup Kitchen” which has, Hoff, the lady who is in charge of since its opening, provided food for the clothes, “Mary, Roger is up Mary Korson, a “heroine” of our time some 900-1000 hungry people there barefoot. Can you help him?” each Saturday. It is also open on Mary gave him a pair of shoes plus national holidays other than a jacket. Thanksgiving and Christmas. One Friday last winter it was 29 Mary, now 86 years old, still works degrees. There was a woman about several days each week supervising 40 who had been in a shelter the the preparation of food for night before. Mary Hoff gave her a Saturday. A supreme, financially pair of shoes. uncompensated volunteer for 20 I have heard many times from years, Mary should definitely be the pulpit, “At the Last Judgement considered a “heroine” of our the Lord will ask a person, ‘Why times. didn’t you feed me when I was Mary Korson directs the Soup hungry and clothe me when I was Kitchen, which is staffed entirely naked?’” The volunteers at St. by volunteers from parishes Francis do just the opposite. They throughout the city. While not a are there to feed and clothe all in ministry of Christ the King, St. need. Francis Soup Kitchen receives The food is prepared on Friday Soup Kitchen volunteers L to R: Joe Brown, Mary Hoff, Mary financial support from Christ the morning. Mary Korson and several Korson, kenny Vincent, Jim Claxton, Flo Thibault (sitting), John others prepare the soup. A group of King parish. The kitchen is located O’Connell and Carrie Kincaide in the basement at 134 Church St. about six women prepares the in the Providence Center at bologna sandwiches. They are by various vendors. He comes from are they who clean up.” Everyone Immaculate Conception Church, in affectionately referred to as “The St. Paul’s Parish at Jacksonville helps in this endeavor. downtown Jacksonville. Bologna Queens.” There is a spirit Beach. About six men unload the The table upon which Volunteers come from Christ of camaraderie at the Soup Kitchen. van. There are sacks of potatoes, vegetables were cut is washed by the King Parish as well as from My wife said, “It’s a social outlet tomatoes, corn to be shucked, several women with Clorox so it’s Protestant churches. Among the for those women.” I answered, “It’s bananas and other produce. The sterilized. Others clean up the Christ the King’s volunteers are a social outlet for me, too.” Then van is unloaded with much kitchen where the soup is cooked. Betty Becht, Flo Thibault, Jim and the bologna sandwiches (and camaraderie coming from the men. All of this work is done with no Bet Knight, Margaret Ward, Mary sometimes peanut butter I help. cracking of the whip that is Ann Danese, Elba Lliedra, Louise sandwiches) are bagged in plastic The produce is brought characteristic of many places. Mary Steadman, Trudy Cameron and bags. That’s my job! Then they are downstairs. Several women prepare Korson is a wonderful supervisor. myself. Msgr. Danaher leads the stacked into cardboard boxes to be salads. About six to eight At about 12:30 - 1:00, when clients in asking the Lord’s distributed Saturday morning. volunteers, mostly women, cut the kitchen is cleaned up, it’s time blessing–The Lord’s Prayer–before Also, about four volunteers whatever vegetables need cutting up. Again, there is much hard work to go. they eat. make “Kool-Aid” which is poured I have worked twice on When I first asked Betty Becht into styrofoam cups to be served and camaraderie among the volunteers. Saturdays. There’s as much or more if help was needed at the Soup the next morning. work in serving the food as in Kitchen, she stated, “Jim, they The “early bird” cakes are Most of the volunteers are in their 60s, 70s and 80s. If anyone preparing it. There is much less always need help.” She said it was bagged and placed into a cardboard socializing on Saturdays when the a miracle the way the volunteers box to be distributed. These are for thinks that older people can’t work, they should come to St. Francis. food is being served and the clients come to prepare the food. When a clients who come early. are there than on Fridays when the lot of volunteers show up, I have Most of the volunteers start They work like beavers. After all the vegetables have food is prepared. Also, there is a heard Mary Korson say, “The Lord around 9:00 a.m. At about 11:30 different group of volunteers, it is a has been good to us.” Brother Michael comes with the been cut up, the salad made and the soup cooked; the next step is the younger crowd, made up mostly of Before the doors open, a prayer produce. He gets up at 4:00 a.m. students from high school and circle is formed and we pray for all and goes to the curb market and clean up. There is a big sign in the back of the room that says “Blest college. those who have requested prayers gets produce that has been donated Walk a Little Plainer Daddy Roses of Love One perfect rose for the many nights Walk a little plainer, Daddy, you stayed awake for me; Said a little boy so frail, And all the sacrifices made I’m following in your footsteps are roses two and threee; And I don’t want to fail. The fourth is for the countless times Sometimes your steps are very plain, you treated my scrapes and bumps; Sometimes they are hard to see; Rose five and six for the care you gave So walk a little plainer, Daddy, in measles, flu, and mumps; for you are leading me. The seventh is for your encouragement I know that once you walked this way and teaching me to try; Many Years ago, and what you did along the way Rose eight and nine for comforting me I’d really like to know. when friendships went awry; For sometimes when I am tempted, I don’t know what to do, Rose ten is for the kisses and smiles, So walk a little plainer, Daddy, for I must follow you. the warmth of your embrace; Someday when I ‘m grown up, You are like I want to be; Eleven adn twelve for the motherly love Then I will have a little boy who will want to follow me. which time cannot erase. And I would want to lead him right and help him to be true, A dozen roses of love for you So walk a little plainer, Daddy, for we must follow you. and a prayer this Mother’s Day; May Jesus hold you in His Loving Heart Happy Father’s Day, Author Unknown and Bless you every day. Daddy submitted by Chuck Parliment

Kathleen L. Purtle Page 30 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 Parish Nurse Ministry by Barbara Hanuscin various other groups within the referrals have been made. Some he meets with hospital officials at parish and by survey forms. A nursing home, hospital and in- St. Vincent’s Medical Center. Are you wondering just what Health Council, which is home visitations to shut-ins have A Medical Equipment Bank this ministry does? comprised of physicians, nurses been made. PNM is currently in the (for durable medical goods) has Since the initiation of the and parishioners representative of process of conducting reference been established and can be program within the parish various organizations and age checks for assembling a Visitation accessed by placing a call to the St. approximately one year ago, the groups within the parish, has met Team for shut-in parishioners. Vincent de Paul phone line listed Parish Nurse Coordinators have twice to provide direction. PNM was represented at on the front of the church bulletin. attended orientation classes at St. Medical science is attempting monthly Parish Council meetings The PNM has provided input Vincent’s Hospital. We have and brought forth for discussion, assistance with the start-up of the presented the program to the Pastor to prove something that issues relating to safety that were Widow/Widower Support Group for his approval and have presented Christians have accepted by raised by parishioners who have which is a new ministry within the the program to the Parish Council faith for quite sometime - the contacted our ministry. parish. PNM continues a working which voted on implementing the partnership with the Society of St. wonderful truth that prayer is Monthly Blood Pressure Parish Nurse Ministry here at screenings have been underway, Vincent de Paul within Christ the Christ the King. A formal recognized as the ultimate usually on the first Sunday of the King Parish. PNM assisted the agreement was signed with St. answer. month after the 8:30 and 10:00 Single and Single Again Ministry Vincent’s Medical Center. Masses. Several potential problems in scheduling speakers. The Parish Nurse Ministry Now, what would we like to Referrals to various community were discovered from screening (PNM) has conducted surveys of accomplish in the near future? We areas of interest by interviewing services, physician referrals, as that was done and physician well as counseling and pastoral referrals were made. The Mobile would like to get the Visitation Health Unit from Baptist/St. Team functioning, schedule more Vincent’s provided flu shots last speakers on health and wellness News from Parish Nurse fall. Also, a number of cholesterol topics, and hopefully get to the checks were done at that time. point where we would be able to Ministry Just a reminder, the Parish hold a Health Fair for the parish. Nurse Ministry does not do What can you do to assist in the invasive procedures, success of the ministry? “Pray for by Barbara Hanuscin and disadvantages of natural immunizations, etc. PNM its Success.” With the medicine; preventing and schedules other providers to offer encouragement and positive Blood pressure screening were maintaining health naturally. He their services. responses we’ve received, as well held on Sunday April 11, 1999 after also spoke about how to choose a The Parish Nurse Coordinators as the prayers we know are being the 8:30 am and 10:00 am Masses. comptent health care practitioner have attended continuing education offered, the PNM will continue. On Tuesday, April 20, 1999 Dr. and some of the legal issues and programs offered by St. Vincent’s Your prayers are also requested to Michael Garay conducted a research involved with natural Parish Nurse Ministry and met ensure that St. Vincent’s Parish presentation titled “Introduction to medicine. with other PNM coordinators from Nurse Ministry, which supports our Natural Medicines” hosted by the On April 21, 1999 we held a various parishes within the diocese meeting for those who had ministry, will continue in this age Singles and Singles Again as well as PNM coordinators from volunteered and filled out the of budget cuts and downsizing of Ministry. Dr. Garay has twenty other denominations. years experience as a health care reference forms for the Parish programs. As you may have The PNM program was professional and has conducted a Nurse Ministry/St. Vincent de noticed, there has been a lot in the introduced at St. Vincent de Paul variety of health education Paul’s “Elderly & Shut in Visitation news lately regarding the power of Society’s Day of Reflection held at programs. The issues he discussed Team.” We hope to have more intercessory prayer in physical, Assumption Parish last February. included such topics as: evaluating information of this topic in the next emotional and spiritual healing. pharmaceutical drugs and natural issue of the Courier. St. Vincent de Paul Confreres of the Medical science is attempting to remedies; assessing the advantages Diocese were in attendance. Parish prove something that Christians Nurse Coordinators were given the have accepted by faith for quite opportunity to speak with Bishop sometime - the wonderful truth that Society of St. Vincent de Snyder. The bishop has promised to prayer is recognized as the ultimate Paul News speak in support of the PNM when answer. by Russ Butzirus Our new Jacksonville District SUNDAY DAY CARE Council President, Mr. Bart The Jacksonville District’s St. O’Leary from St. Catherine, also For Children Ages 1-4 Vincent de Paul “Day of welcomed the group and Reflection” took place February by Donna Simons scheduled to help. Marsha th introduced the guest speaker, 20 at Assumption Church. Williams helps at the 8:30 a.m. Father Bob McDermott, Pastor of Representatives attended from On February 21, 1999, the day Mass, and Donna Iglesias helps at St. Patrick. His address covered the conferences at Assumption, care for the 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 the 10:00 a.m. Mass every Sunday. Cathedral- Basilica (St. principles and advances in assisting a.m. Masses began. It is at Christ Karen Birdwell also continues to Augustine), St. Catherine (Orange the needy in the Diocese and the the King Day Care across from the help at the 10:00 a.m. Mass. Park), St. Edward (Starke), St. John need for additional conferences. music room. Entrance to the day We have been very blessed and (Interlachen), St. Paul (Beaches), The presidents of each of the care facilities is from the school fortunate to be able to use the St. Paul (Riverside) and St. Patrick. parking lot at the student drop off facilities. With all the parents’ help Twenty-one members from Christ Conferences represented gave a and cooperation, this new venture the King joined Fr. Robert Baker review of their activities during the area by the blue canopy. at Christ the King Church will truly and the other representatives. past year. The hour together is busy and fun. There is play time and story be successful. The day started at 8:30 a.m. All members present attended time. Christ the King provides If anyone is interested in with a welcome and opening prayer Mass, celebrated by Bishop John J. by Msgr. Eugene Kohls, Pastor at snacks and juice for the children. signing up for the day care, please Snyder, and the day concluded with Assumption, followed by remarks Eighth grade students from Christ contact Marsha Williams at 221- by Msgr. Mortimer Danaher, a luncheon in the Activity Center, the King School, who enjoy being 4459 or Donna Iglesias at 725- Spiritual Director of S.V.D.P. for provided by the Assumption with children, help each Sunday 0680. the St. Augustine Diocese. Conference. along with parents who are May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 31 Beginning of the Christ the King Sports Program by Eileen Porter Tadpoles were runner-up in the Duval County Tournament. In 1970 When Christ the King (C.K.) the Pirates won the county parish was formally established in championship and in 1974 two 1955 there were many things to be C.K. teams the Hawks coached by done. The most important of these Ralph Mosley and the Rebels were, of course a church and a coached by Jim Roberts were school. Our first Mass was offered tadpole Co-Champions. This was a in the new building in December of wonderful example of young boys 1955, and the school opened in doing their best for their teams and September of 1956. dedicated parents coaching them. Where there are young people, In 1974 there were 16 teams there must be a sports program. So playing at Christ the King. In 1971, Christ the King Athletic program 12 C.K. teams participated in the was established. Our first coach of Arlington Baseball Tadpole, record was Mr. Eugene Davis. Mr Midget and Junior Leagues. Al Davis set up a regular schedule of received a number of awards for his 1971 Awards Banquest: L to R -- Eddie Garza, coach; Bill Siegel play and exercise for the boys and hard work and dedication. Included (deceased), Sales Manager of Massey Dodge (sponsor); George girls during school hours and after in these were a trophy presented by Jackson, coach; Bill McClealland, Arlington Optimist Club the Knights of Columbus, school as well. He established (sponsor); Jim Doyle, coach; R.C. Pitts, Florida National Bank VP teams in basketball, softball, Arlington Council, and a plaque football, volleyball and track. presented by Mayor Hans Tanzler. (sponsor); Al Rucci, coach and baseball commissioner In 1965 Al Rucci and his wife Al retired from the athletic program Emily agreed to work with the in 1972 and left the program in the existing athletic program. Their very capable hands of Tom principal reason for coming into the Millsaps and Jim Weite. program was so that their son Tim From 1972 through 1978 John could enjoy the Little League Faustini and his wife Doris became experience. Al and Emily quickly very active in the Christ the King discovered that they WERE the Athletic Association (C.K.A.A.), program, and that more than eighty particularly with the baseball team. boys were waiting to play ball. Two of their sons, Stephen and Al spent many hours working Chris were members of the team. on the program, upgrading the field John, Bob Semis and Mike and having lights installed, and it Cascone coached the team and was at this time that a concession Doris served as score keeper and in stand was built. Al’s job description many other capacities. It was at this as a volunteer had gone from time that the C.K.A.A. installed a coaching to becoming head coach pitching machine, which was of and ‘Commissioner’ of the Athletic great value in training the players. program.” The boys’ program was Mike Cascone and Frank Smith very successful. Al further were also very active at this time developed the program to allow and were instrumental in improving girls to participate in the activities. the baseball field by having it L to R: 1970 --Al Rucci, coach; Frank Becht, Grand Knight of sodded and installing a sprinkler Al and Emily were fortunate in Arlington Council K of C 4727; Greg Charleston, M.V.P. of Christ having other Christ the King system, and serving as coaches. parents to assist them in the further Tim McClellan worked with them the King Pirates, champions; and sponsor Roy Daniels, President of development of the athletic as a player and as a coach. One of Arlington Plaza Association and owner of Arlington Athletic program. Among them were the trophy winning teams during Company assistant coach Chuck Foy and his this period was a baseball team, the wife Helen, Dave Seravo, Judd C.K. Lancers. part in expanding the facility as life, academics, and athletics). We Ammean and Eddie Garza, to name A second story was added to the well as working with the players. give these dedicated people a deep a few. existing building that was used as a Christ the King has always vote of gratitude for their efforts on During Al’s tenure as coach- concession stand and as a storage been, and is still blessed with behalf of all our children. commissioner a number of area for athletic equipment as well. caring parents who work tirelessly championship teams were Butch Ferrizzi served as president in order to improve the quality of See next issue for C.K.A.A. developed. One of these was in of the C.K.A.A. and had a large their children’s school experience Today 1965 when the C.K. Pirates in all areas (including their spiritual

A Golfer’s 23rd Psalm

This adaptation was written for Yea, though I land in the sand; the funeral of Armenta Simmons I enjoy every stroke. (1906-1999), secretary at Cuthbert For He gave me this game. United Methodist Church, “pastor” to pastors, and avid golfer. Thy woods and irons are of the By Russ Elkins finest hue.

The Lord is my golfing buddy Thou preparest for me I never walk the course alone. a beautiful view. My trophy case overflows. He leads me out of the rough, And helps me conquer every Surely, thy fresh breezes are green. with he’s my caddy. He coaches my me in the game of life, swing. And now I walk on your lush fairways forever. Page 32 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 DINNER THEATRE

Jerly Asunto

Christin Steffan

Adam Kersh Mr. and Mrs. Rocky DiGeorgio and cast by Kathy Nichols singing talent, but she introduced and plans to continue studying The third and fourth graders two Christ the King soloists who voice. performed vocals, and the seventh On March 4th, the third, fourth commanded a standing ovation The other soloist was Adam graders acted, danced and sang on and seventh grades presented a after performing. Jerly Asunto, a Kersch. Adam is in the eighth stage. Christin Steffan musical play called “The History of fifth grader, sang “My Life Will Go grade and presently sings in the choreographed every dance, which children’s choir. Adam has had no took approximately two months to Rock ‘n Roll.” Carabba’s Italian On” from the move “Titanic” and professional training in voice or complete. The dancers then later sang “How Do I Live Without Grill donated and served a music, yet did a superb job singing practiced daily to learn the routines. wonderful Italian dinner prior to You.” Jerly has only recently “If You Could Read My Mind.” He Those who attended will the show. Mr. and Mrs. DiGeorgio started voice lessons. She has plans to continue singing at Bishop probably agree that this organized and hosted this energetic performed in front of crowds Kenny next year. performance exceeded all musical. before, during family celebrations Following these opening acts expectations. The seventh graders Mrs. DiGeorgio not only and talent shows. She has been came the much anticipated musical were truly marvelous. I’m sure it entertained the audience with her taking piano lessons for a few years “The History of Rock ‘n Roll”. has changed their lives. Diocesan Music Festival You’re One in a Billion For the first time, the world’s - More than 26,000 lay Catholic population has surpassed missionaries. 1 billion. According to statistics - More than 2 million catechists. dated December 31, 1997, there were about 1,005,000,000 Catholic church statistics for registered Catholics in the world’s the Diocese of St. Augustine (as of dioceses. December 31, 1997): The Vatican announced this fact in a presentation to Pope John Paul - Catholics in United States - II on February 20 with the 61,207,914 unveiling of its 1999 annual - Priests in Diocese - 110 yearbook. According to the latest - Deacons in Diocese -22 statistics, the Catholic population - Sisters in Diocese - 119 continues to increase while the - Diocesan Parishes - 50 number of priests holds about - Diocesan Missions - 9 steady and the number of religious - Diocesan Schools - 25 is dropping slowly. - Students Attending Catholic Although the number of Schools - 8,985 Catholics per priest continues to - Catholic Students Attending rise, the number of seminarians is Public Schools - 15,556 increasing, up about 2.5 percent - Students Enrolled in Religious from the previous year. Education Programs - 10,422 The yearbook said the Church’s pastoral workforce totaled nearly Former Bishops of St. Augustine 3.4 million: Bishop J.P. Augustin Verot - 1870- - More than 4,400 bishops. 1876 - More than 404,000 priests, of which nearly 264,000 were Bishop John Moore - 1877-1901 by Kathy Nichols diocesan clergy. Bishop William Kenny - 1902- Christ the King hosted the Pius, San Jose and Bishop Kenny. - More than 24,400 permanent 1913 Annual Diocesan Music Festival The program included deacons, which increased 4 Bishop Michael J. Curley - 1914- percent. on March 9. Participating schools presentations from choirs, bands, 1921 - More than 58,000 male included Annunciation, violins and piano. Rocky religious who were not priests. Bishop Patrick Barry - 1922-1940 Assumption, Christ the King, Holy DiGeorgio, Assistant Director of - More than 819,000 female Archbishop Joseph P. Hurley - Spirit, Resurrection, Sacred Heart, Music, worked with Christ The religious. 1940-1967 St. Joseph, St. Patrick, St. Paul at King Choir and violinists, resulting - More than 31,000 members of Bishop Paul F. Tanner - 1968-1979 the beach, St. Paul Riverside, St. in an enjoyable evening for all. secular institutes. May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 33 VIETNAMESE COMMUNITY by Peter Dang * Firecracker: Orientals believe that noise would drive the evils The sound of drum beating, the away. On the dawn of the New gong, the firecracker, the dragon Year, many people would fire dance, the incense, “Lucky the firecracker to create as Money”, the wishing... are part of much noise as they could to the Vietnamese TET celebration. TET is one of the most important expel the evil and the events for the Vietnamese “unlucky” from their home. In community. In trying to relive and addition, the firecracker has to to pass on the tradition to the be red so that when it is younger generation, the shattered it would scatter a Vietnamese Community created an blanket of red color on their atmosphere to induce the spirits of front yard. New Year in each of the * Dragon Dance: Depending on Vietnamese’s souls who were there symbolic meaning of sweeping is * Another belief is that the first the region, it is sometime called at Christ the King Church. to sweep away the good fortune visitor is very important. That This year, the Vietnamese Unicorn or Lion Dance. It is and scare away the good spirits. person could bring in bad or Community was blessed with the believed that the devils are good fortune to the household. presence of Bishop John Snyder. afraid of this animal. During For instance we pay all our old The visitor would bring in the The Bishop was the master of the New Year celebration, a debts or we work out a good spirit as he/she enters the home. ceremonies for the Vietnamese team of Dragon Dancers, arrangement so that the loan owner So, it is often prearranged to Mass after the ancient incense normally performed by martial will not demand them during TET. assure that the visitor has some burning to commemorate the We mend the fence, repair arts masters, tours around a of the following characteristics ancestor. On this special occasion, predetermined territory to windows, fix the roof or the doors, the Bishop wore a traditional that the owner is seeking: (1) solicit any home or business paint the house, trim the bushes and Vietnamese “Ao Dai” embroidered trees, and remove unsightly scenes. compatible zodiac sign, (2) owner wanting to “exorcize” with a Dragon. No hard work is to be good character, (3) wealth, (4) Following are some of the the devils and bring in good performed during the celebration. health, and (5) power. traditions in the Vietnamese TET: fortune. The dragon dances in a All those who die are to be buried TET (Vietnamese New Year) or rhythmic motion with the beat before TET; no funeral is to be These traditions or customs are Lunar New Year is one of the most of the drum. At the end of the arranged during the celebration. handed down for centuries; some important events for the dance, it swallows a red The central focus on TET is to are modified or varied so that they Vietnamese or for the Oriental as a envelope with money hanging put everything in good order, get fit into the local culture. whole. The first day of TET marks on the second balcony or on top rid of bad or evil things, and the end of what was in the past, of a 2030 foot bamboo pole for surround oneself with a lot of Other Important News: good or bad, and a new beginning happiness, fortune, wealth, health, the reward. of hope for the coming year. The and fullness. 1. This year, the Holy Spirit has Oriental believes that the events * “Cay Mai” ------Plum tree: Based on that theme, all of the brought three candidates into that take place during TET, Vietnamese decorate their activities happening during TET especially the first day, are very home with “Cay Mai”, for (1) are to gather as much “good the Vietnamese Church on important and foretell what the the word “Mai” means fortune” as one can. Each region Easter Vigil along with other good days will be for the next entire “Lucky”, and (2) it blooms with has its own custom or “tradition” candidates at Christ the King. year. a lot of yellow flowers on the to bring in or to align the In preparing for this event, a lot 1st day of the year if one is opportunity so that one can 2. In trying to integrate the of planning and a lot of unfinished “lucky”. guarantee a “good year”, and American culture into the business have to be concluded prior surround themselves with a lot of * A belief is also observed that on Vietnamese Community, on to that day so that the bad things symbols or things that have good Easter Sunday, the Vietnamese will not happen during the the first three days of the New fortune in meaning. For instance: Community had an Easter Egg celebration and possibly carry over Year, no sweeping of the floor is to the next year. allowed. It is said that the * Red Color: Orientals believe that Hunt for children of all ages. the monsters or evils are afraid of red; therefore it is used to 3. On May 30, 12 of the Tet Celebrated at decorate the door front, signs, Vietnamese children will and cover things to drive away receive First Communion and a Christ the King bad things and bring in good reception will follow. by Mary Ann Sullivan this occasion Bishop Snyder wore a fortune. yellow and red/orange cassock with a * Watermelon is a sign of fullness Planning ahead for the summer: The Vietnamese Lunar New Year dragon on the front. The bright colors and fortune. It is big, round and (known as Tet) was celebrated with echo the colors of flowers that bloom red inside, so in selecting the 1. A summer camp retreat for the gala costumes, dragons, music and in Vietnam during this season. melon, it has to be round Vietnamese Youth will be held prayer at Christ the King on February After Mass, the attendees flowed (unblemished), full, sweet and 14. into Sheppard Square and the ‘Dragon at the Laguna Christian Retreat red. Three years ago, Fr. Thanh Dance’ began. Drums and firecrackers, Center in Panama City Beach initiated this celebration in the parish along with colorful costumes, are said * “Li Xi” Lucky Money Envelope. on June 25-27, 1999. The for the many Vietnamese in the area. to drive away evil spirits. On the first day of the New central focus is “Unity” and He wanted to embody both our After the ‘Dragon Dance,’ a Year, the young or the “Plunge”. Catholic faith and the Asian culture. traditional Vietnamese dinner was subordinate would pay their Tet lasts for three days and is enjoyed in the Parish Hall. respects to the elder or their 2. On July 23-25, the Vietnamese similar to our Thanksgiving, Entertainment included Vietnamese boss and to wish them a happy catechists will attend Christmas and Independence Day dances performed by the Vietnamese New Year and a very workshops and conferences in celebrations all rolled into one. It is a children. The Vietnamese choir also prosperous year. In return, they Baton Rouge/Louisiana that time when families get together and sang for the guests. The wonderful would receive a small red small gifts are exchanged with the afternoon, enjoyed by all, gave us a were organized by the hope of bringing good luck and better understanding of Vietnamese envelope with some money Vietnamese Catechist Center on prosperity. customs and helped us to appreciate stuffed inside which signified the subject of “Preparing for Over 250 Vietnamese-Americans the universality of the Church. We “thank you”. along with the the Jubilee Year 2000”. and others gathered for a Mass thank the Vietnamese community and envelope, they would also celebrated by Bishop John Snyder. For Fr. Thanh for this experience. receive advice or a good wish. Page 34 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 Ministries

Coordinator of Music Ministry R.C.I.A. Cub Scouts Knights of Columbus Volunteer Services Any individual who has a talent with Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. Pack 5 sponsored by Christ the King Organization of Catholic men and If you would life to volunteer your music or can play an instrument or Preparing people to enter the Church. Boys in 1st -5th grade. Dens their families dedicated to promoting Time, Talent, & Treasure but not sure just interested in the Singing Choir, Catholic Church through an inquiry meet weekly in the Scout Hut. Call concepts of charity, unity, fraternity what you would like to do or maybe Handbell Choir, Funeral Choir, or and catechetical process. Call Marie Dave Waters 721-6567 or Donna and patriotism. If you are a you’re in a ministry but the one you being a Cantor for Mass, call Bernie, or Lyle Stewart, 721-2849. Baker, 641-0698. practicing Catholic man at least 18 want, call Al Martin, 744-4302. 724-0080. yrs. old, interested in fellowship with Speakers for Career Day Cursillo people who share the same beliefs, Rectory Office Volunteers Nocturnal Adoration at Christ the King School A Renewal movement of individuals call Butch Ferrizzi at 641-3643. Adults willing to volunteer a Held on the first Friday of each On Career Day we need several in the Church who want to deepen morning/afternoon/all day Monday month from 10 p.m.-6 a.m. There are people to volunteer to share their faith and enhance their walk Life Teen thru Friday 9-5. Different positions eight groups who rotate their hour information about their with Christ. Call Carl at 724 -8485. Youth ministry program with a available: receptionist, clerical, each month. If you would like to join careers/vocations with the children. Girl Scouts strong focus on the Eucharist. Meet computer operator. Call the Rectory us in this prayer ministry, call Marty If you would like more information, Girls of different age levels that meet Sunday for Mass (usually at 5 p.m.) at 724-0080 for more information. Polsenski at 384-4392. please call the school at 724-2954. weekly or bi-weekly in the Shirley and Life Night (fellowship) afterwards. Call Nancy, 398-1961 Sponsor Couples David Hall after school or in the Parish Council Sacristans evenings. Call Nancy at 745-3751. The Parish Council is a consultative We help prepare for the celebration Needed married couples to help Life Teen - Core Team body that the Pastor can pray and of Mass. For more information on engaged couples discern if marriage Habijax - Habitat for Humanity Over 18, have a love for teens and are reflect with, and ask for assistance to how you can be a Sacristan call Ray is for them. Call Jim/Mary Ann Forms partnerships between those in not currently a parent of a teen. Meet guide in the overall care/ministry of Hauck, 641-0205. Middleton at 743-3951 for further need and those who are willing to put on Sundays at 6:15 p.m. in the the Parish and the enhancement of its information. their faith into action by donating rectory. Call Nancy Powers at 398- mission. Meetings are the first Ushers their time, talent, and treasure to 1961 for more information. Monday of each month at 5:30 PM in Men and women who commit to Sunday Childcare construct such housing. Call Bill the Rectory. Call Mike Mackin at attend the same Mass every week. For 8:30 & 10:00 Masses Damato at 642-8920. Christ the King Childcare & Parents for Life-Teen 744-6659. It is made up of They are requested to wear a navy Adults or parents interested in representatives (President, blue jacket and to assist the celebrant Religious Formation for your 1-4 Hispanic Ministry year old child in the Child Care We wish to develop a parish ministry supporting the Life Teen program. Chairperson or Facilitator) from each as needed. Call Howard Sell at 744- Membership is open to all adults ministry in the Parish, as well as 5937. Center. Free of charge. Call Marsha to worship and meet the spiritual and Williams, 221-4459 or Donna social needs of the growing Hispanic regardless of whether or not you are representatives from the Finance a parent. Activities are creative, fun, Council, Christ the King School, EDUCATION Iglesias, 725-0680 to help or for population at Christ the King. We more information. meet every Monday at 7 P.M. for exciting and diverse. Call Jeanette, Christ the King Daycare, Athletic 725-7559 or 354-4846. Association, Scouts, Knights of Bible Study Bible study in the Rectory. Call Rosa Individuals wishing to study the Vacation Bible School Townsend, 744-9231. Columbus, Marriage Encounter, L ’ Arche Harbor House Mutual Bible. They meet Thursday mornings A week long summer program Sponsor Couples, and Wedding Single and Single Again ministry with members and at 9 a.m. and another group meets at (usually in August) for children ages Coordinator. Elections are held every Alone? Join us! We’re the Single and assistants, building community 7 p.m. in the rectory. All are welcome 4-11 years to help deepen their faith two years to elect a President, vice- Single Again Support Group, support and awareness to the needs to join. For more information contact and involvement in the Christian president, secretary-recording, meeting new friends and enjoying and gifts of the disabled members of Father Brian Carey at 724-0080. community. Fun for everyone. Call secretary- clerical from the body of Diana Mattox at 928-9224. social activities. We meet Tuesdays, the L’ Arche Harbor House family. representatives. C.C.D. 7:30 PM in the Shirley David Hall. Call Dottie Klein at 744-4435. Opportunity for students grades 1-8 ACTIVE ASSOCIATIONS Call LeRoy, 725-3472. LITURGICAL to learn/experience the Catholic faith St. Vincent de Paul Society Adopt A Player Respect Life with others in their age group. We were founded by people who care Altar Server Ministry People of our parish who would like We are a ministry wishing to make a Sessions held September-May in the about the problems of those around Interested youth 5th grade or older to contribute toward the cost difference in people’s lives either by school on Wednesday 7-8 p.m. them. We care and would like you to and who have received First Holy associated with registering a child for supporting the Saint Gerard House, Sunday Mass attendance required. share the care with us. For Communion. Once trained they are a C.K.A.A. sport call John Largey at Project Rachel, Respect Life Call Subdeacon Eli Shami at 721- information on how to become a entered into a rotating schedule for 743-8496 or the office 725-0338. Pilgrimage and the Diocesan Respect 3334, on Wednesdays, 7-8 pm at Vincentian call Russ, 634-8544, x1, the Masses. Contact Jim Litchkofski Life Program. Sign up at the Time 724-2954. and leave a message. at 646-0694. Beautification Committee and Talent Fair or contact Patty or C.C.D. Teachers Individuals and families who want to Mike Maroney, 743-9227. St. Vincent de Paul Transportation Altar Society Needed certified teachers to teach beautify the church grounds. Meet The Legion of Mary Ministry Individuals who care for the vessels, grades 1-8 catechism. If you feel the third Saturday of every month 9- Men or women who offer their Volunteer drivers are needed to vestments and linens used in the called to reach out to young people 12 noon in the church parking lot by services to their pastor, to aid him in transport parishioners to Mass, Liturgies. Call Debbie Scobie at 723- this may be the place for you. Call the fountain. Come join us in performing spiritual works in the Doctor’s Appointments, etc. Call 3977. Subdeacon Eli Shami at 721-3334. beautifying His House. Call Barbara parish. Members may be active or 634-8544, x1, leave a message. Saar at 743-3430 auxiliary (praying).Weekly meetings St. Vincent de Paul Church Decorating C.C.D. Volunteers are held every Monday at 7 p.m. in Decorating the church and gathering Volunteers needed for Wednesday Boy Scouts Visitation Ministry the rectory. Call James Scott at 757- We need volunteers to visit the area, during different seasons of the nights during the school year to help Troop 5 sponsored by Christ the 8423. church. Contact Terri Vogelsang, teachers and clerical staff. Call King Church. Boys 6-12th grade. sick/elderly of the parish. Leave a 744-6310 for information on how Subdeacon Eli at 721-3334. Meet Tuesdays, 7 p.m. in the Scout Religious Articles Gift Shop message on 634-8544, x1. you can help. Hut-Call Rob 396-2242. Volunteers who staff the gift shop I. M. Sulzbacher Center for Family Life before and after Sunday Masses and Individuals who give two hours of Daily Adoration For counseling information, call 308- Catholic Scouting Committee Wednesday Marion Mass. Call their time to 400-500 men, women We need people who are willing to 7474. Adult individuals interested in Maureen McCook at 642-2725. and children the third Tuesday of sign up for one hour a week so that providing youth ministry through the each month by saying grace, serving someone is praying all during the Child Care Center scouting program. Meets 4 times a Widow/Widowers Support Adults wanting to share their talents For those who have lost loved ones. dinner and cleaning up the kitchen. day. Adoration is in the Sacred Heart year; organizes and implements Call Donnell, 743-6174. Chapel, Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.- in the three different subcommittees: “Catholic camporee” for all Scouts Contact Isabelle Fusco at 724-5186 5:30 p.m. Please call Blanche educational, plant facilities, and fund once a year; attend spring awards for info on the next time we meet. Advent Tree raising. Contact Theresa Little at A program that puts smiles on faces Iglesias at 725-3968 or sign up on ceremony. Training provided. Call Stewardship Committee Time and Talent Pledge weekend. 724-7239. Nancy, 745-3751. of people at Christmas time. Those Participate in a vital leadership group who share time and talent in this devoted to discovering and Eucharistic Ministers Christ the King Catholic School Christ the King ministry help put up the Advent Tree communicating insights into with special paper ornaments. Assisting the clergy in the Grades Pre-K thru 8th grade. The Athletic Association (CKAA) Christian discipleship and their principal is Janet Morton. The school Parishioners choose ornaments to distribution of Holy Communion Serves children (ages 5-12, boys; 5- application to stewardship as a way take home, purchase the gift, return either during Mass or by bringing the needs volunteers on the school board, 15, girls) who believe that youth of life. Monthly meetings plus at the cafeteria, office, library, clinic, the ornament with the gift attached to Eucharist to the homebound or athletics provide valuable lessons in activities throughout the year. Call it. Volunteers needed to help hospitalized. Candidates are chosen as a room mother, etc. Call 724-2954. citizenship/teamwork. Call John, Patricia Thomas, 724-0080. distribute the gifts to nursing homes, by Father Baker as recommended by 743-8496/office 725-0338. orphanages, etc. Call Trudy Cameron M.O.M.S. Ministry the priests and staff members of the Faith Sharing Small Groups at 724-0511. Ministry of Mothers Sharing, is parish. Elizabeth Tadros, coordinator. Small groups of people meeting in Christ the King Courier designed to encourage prayer, Christ the King private homes to discuss the Sunday Interested in publishing a discussions, and friendships between Clinic Volunteers Gift Bearers readings and sharing how these newspaper? We need proofreaders, women of all ages. Call Carroll Ann Staffed by Doctors, Registered Families, Individuals or Parish readings relate to our daily lives. reporters, photographers, etc. We Contact Jean O’Connor, 727-9590. Black, 221-2642 Nurses and ancillary support people ministries who want to bring the gifts meet Wednesdays in the rectory at 7 from Christ the King Parish. They to the altar during Mass. Call Kathy Landings p.m. Call Judy at 724-0080. donate their services the fourth Weedon at 221-5468. K’ Cees Saturday of each month 9-1p.m. Call Works with Catholics who have been Janis at 398-4392. away from the Church for a period of Organization of Catholic Women, an Lector Ministry CKCCW auxiliary of the Knights of time and wish to return. Contact Parish Nurse Ministry A Lector is an instrument of God’s Jackie Davis, 743-6667. Our board meets monthly, Columbus Council 4727. They grace and proclaims His word for our September-June, to guide our seven help/support the Knights. Meetings Nurses who belong to Christ the Christian Community. Call Lucille Marriage Encounter circles who meet at various times are at the Knights’ Hall on Merrill King Parish willing to volunteer their Guzzone, 724-9617. A program designed to teach married during the month. Our General Road on the fourth Tuesday of each time and talent to support the couples how to better communicate, meeting is the last Thursday of each month at 8 p.m. Call Laura Morris ministry of health within the parish. Mass Greeters to strengthen and support Christian month at 7 PM. We welcome new 220-7671 for information. Call Barbara at 724-1776. Welcome all who come to Mass. This marriage. Contact Emilo and members. Call Pat, 399-3198. team may offer the only contact Theresa Gonzalez-Chavez 721-0012. Queens and Kings Christ the King Blood Drive many parishioners have in our faith Clown Ministry Our lively senior citizens socialize Needs Volunteers community. Great opportunity for Pre Cana/Engaged Encounter Come join the fun. Be a clown! We on the second Sunday of each month Twice a year Christ the King Church adults and families. Contact the chief For information on upcoming minister to people of all ages needing from 1:30-4 p.m. September through along with the Florida Georgia Blood usher at the Mass you are attending workshops and weekends, call 308- cheer. Call Janyce Jendryn at 721- June. Do come to enjoy! Call Pat Alliance holds a blood drive. Call for more information. 7474. 7854 or 398-3911. Humbard, 396-6073. Karlene Simmons, 642-8319. May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 35 A Brownie’s Outing

Brownies proudly display their tie-dyed tee-shirts Brownies at Camp Chowenwaw by Kathy Griffin snack to eat. The next activity They stopped to visit a tree house. girls discussed the items they found involved making tie-dyed tee- In addition, the Brownies learned on the nature walk. As the day was On Saturday, February 6th, 10 shirts. The beautifully designed trail signs, and they learned coming to a close, they stood in the cars carrying 18 Brownies, 3 troop pink and purple shirts hung from courtesy rules when entering other Girl Scout Circle and discussed leaders, 8 mothers, and 1 father set the trees to dry. The Brownies then people’s camp. what they each enjoyed most about out for a day’s outing at Camp played a game of ‘the hyena and the After the nature walk, lunch their day. sheep’. was a welcome treat for the tired The entire day was busy and Chowenwaw. Everyone arrived Next, it was time for a nature campers. Later, the Brownies filled with fun. The Brownies safely. The activities began at walk. Not only did the Brownies checked to see if their tee-shirts worked on three Try-it patches: art Burrell Lodge. The Brownies go on a long hike through the were dry. Soon it was time to make to wear, outdoor fun, and games. received the initial rules and the woods, they did an ecology search. kawashies. The Brownies carefully The day camp helped to build their agenda for the day. They were to find four different chose their colored paper and glued excitement and prepare them for The Brownies paired up with a leaves, sticks, or rocks. However, them to the half-gallon jugs. They their overnight camp in April. ‘buddy’ to stay with throughout the they brought back lots of big sticks did a wonderful job! While they They can hardly wait! day. Then they made a healthy and rocks and bags full of leaves. waited for the kawashies to dry, the Christ the King Child Care Reflections on Being an Altar Server

by Theresa Little In March we had our second annual Easter egg hunt. What a Well, we’ve had a busy year beautiful day it was. We even had thus far and spring isn’t even in full a special visit from the Easter swing yet. In September, we took a Bunny! We had a party all day long trip to the Coliseum with our two, in preparation for Jesus’ three, and four-year-olds to see by Staff Writer In response to interesting things resurrection. “Elmo’s Coloring Book”. It was a that occurred while serving, one great time for all, but the weather Altar servers were asked to altar server wrote: “. . . I had the Our Easter Prayer: did not cooperate for our outdoor write why they became altar book for the third time and I was picnic so we returned to the school servers and to relate interesting serving by myself with a God our Father, You gave Jesus and had it indoors. things that happened while they seminarian. . .he told me to get the new life....Alleluia In December we had our first were serving. book and I dropped it, and all these God our Father, You let Jesus give The overwhelming response annual Christmas program. Among papers came out. I was so those in attendance were some of was that they wanted to serve God. me new life...Alleluia embarrassed.” the parents, students and faculty Thank you, God, for the gift of One altar server wrote, “I became It is so refreshing to know that from Christ the King School. Our new life... Alleluia. an altar server because I would love to be a part of the Mass. Another these children overcame their little angels did a great job. The big Amen surprise of the morning was the reason is my Great Uncle Bob is a anxieties to accomplish this end, arrival of Santa Claus. It was a priest, and one day I hope I will despite tripping, dropping books, In April we went on a trip to the great day and our performers really serve on his altar.” and forgetting; whether serving zoo. And now we begin Another altar server stated, “I slept well that afternoon. with their friends, brothers or February’s activity was a trip to preparation for summer activities. became an altar server because it Peterbrooke Chocolate Factory. We While plans are not yet certain, seemed to me I was spiritually and sisters, or serving alone. watched them make chocolate- this much is: we will have a physically closer to God. It also Most of our servers viewed this as a stepping stone to a better life, covered popcorn and even got to blessed time. gave me an opportunity to be with taste the samples, yum, yum. my brother and sister.” and we are so proud of them. Page 36 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999

Pack 5: Family Camping Cub Pack 5: “Teamwork” Stronger Than Ever! by Belinda Waters Lance Simons planned some by Dave Waters the building. We are working to great activities for the scouts and improve the holding pond. Mike Our annual family camping their families. They participated in We recently celebrated another Klima donated and installed trip in January was a great success. the nuclear core relay, ski relay, Boy Scout birthday with our annual permanent benches in front of the It was the biggest turnout of scouts stretcher carry and compass game. Blue and Gold banquet. This one Scout Hut and around the “fire pit”. and their family members in the The highlight of the day was the was the largest I have seen for the Mike also began the new physical history of Pack 5. All participants tug of war in which both scouts and Pack. fitness training program by enjoyed themselves. their families participated. Great I am very pleased with our building a chin-up for the Cubs. The theme “teamwork” was weather, great food and great accomplishments over the past Some of you may have noticed a evident as the Pack learned to work company topped off the whole year, Pack 5’s 41st year at Christ dumpster that was recently located together, and developed some weekend. Come join the fun of the King. You will hear about some near the storage shed by the Scout useful skills. scouting! of the many activities we have been Hut. The Boy Scouts and the Cub involved in over the past year in Scouts removed the old roof from other articles. the storage shed and installed a new Catholic Scouting What I want to emphasize is one. We have begun remodeling our gratitude to Christ the King the interior of the Scout Hut itself, Religious Emblems Parish for their continued support. as well. Without organizations such as I know that there are those Christ the King, most scouting among you who, in the past, were groups could not exist. Pack 5 is involved in the scouting effort here very fortunate to be associated with at Christ the King. Come by and Christ the King, and I look forward see us. Let us know how you think to another 41 years! we are doing in our efforts to The Pack will always look for implement programs that help our ways to give back to the Church. children build good, strong Recently we began our own characters. Also, come by or call beautification effort at the Scout Dave Waters, at 721-6567 for a Hut. You may have noticed there time we could meet and show you are permanent retaining walls to the improvement in the facilities keep excess water from damaging and share our hopes for the future. Pinewood 500

By Lance Simons Wolves On March 6, 1999, Cub Scout 1st Robert Jordon Pack 5 held its Annual Pinewood nd Ryan Rillstone, nine year old Bear Cub Scout, Derby. Over 35 Scouts participated 2 Jimmy Mollenhour awarded Religious Medal by Bishop Snyder. this year, and a wide variety of cars 3rd Andy Klima by Donna Baker Troop 310 and Cub Scout Pack 5 were displayed. who were awarded their Catholic Approximately 200 races were Bears conducted in the Parish Hall. All Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts at Religious Emblems. Those who st all age levels are invited to received their Family of God medal present had a good time and look 1 John Nelesen participate in the religious emblem were Kaylee Burke, Samantha forward to next year’s design. 2nd Ben Waters Daniels, Mallory Frye, Taylor Hull, The winners of our Annual program. Under the guidance of 3rd Phillip Morency the scouts’ parents and trained Ashley Madden, Stacie Putala, Pinewood Derby for 1999 are: emblems counselors, the scouts Mary Register, Carissa Searcy, work in age-appropriate programs Hannah Smith, Gabriella Solano, Tiger Cubs 1st Year Webelos st designed to deepen their Catholic Amy Wallace, Brianna Waters, 1 David Hester 1st Phillip Seidenstricker faith and strengthen their Kayla Weaver. Those who 2nd Aaron Morency nd relationship with God. received their Parvuli Dei medal 2 John Michael Hernandez rd We are blessed in our diocese were Timothy Gagnon and Ryan 3 Patrick Considine 3rd Nicolas Reddy because each spring Bishop John Rillstone. Snyder presents the awards to To find out information on how Scouts who successfully complete you can ear a Catholic Religious We would like to encourage parents to submit the program. On March 7, 1999 Emblem, please call Belinda their child’s story and picture Christ The King Parish was Waters 721-6567, Nancy D’Antoni for any event, holiday, or special occasion for the next issue of represented in St. Augustine at the 745-3751, or Donna Baker 641- Christ the King Courier. Cathedral by Scouts of Brownie 0698. The deadline for articles o fthis type is June 30, 1999. May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 37

Reflections on the Spring ‘99 Retreat by Nancy Powers Director, Alicia Villotti, did an Life Teen Coordinator outstanding job developing and coordinating this retreat. She is a Our second LIFE TEEN professional and Mollie and I were honored to provide support. Retreat is behind us and, like so As you can see by the number many of you, I wanted to take a of people mentioned above, it takes moment and share my thoughts and each and every one of us to make reflections. this program happen. We all have I’m continuously impressed by been given a gift and every one of the caliber and quality of us adds importance to this program. individuals who have embraced And I haven’t even mentioned LIFE TEEN. So many people had a Sandy Keel and all the “Parents” hand in this retreat: The six who helped at registration, all who musicians who blessed us with the donated items to us, all who were Suzanne Willis, Jaime Willis, Linda Jancke, Robert Riker, Angela most awesome and professional waiting to welcome our teens Hartley and Kristina Kharman live music all weekend long; the 11 home. walked down each row the visibly upset. I put my arm around “Parents” who slept, cooked, We have an incredible LIFE musicians played and sang; a soft him and asked him what was wrong cleaned, and serenaded us; who TEEN program by any standard meditative tune. After he had and he said “I get it! I really get it!” gave constant love and support all and I salute and thank each and finished with all the teens and Core, I could tell by his face now that weekend; the 11 Core Members every one of you. the music stopped and the they were tears of joy and what he who each facilitated their own I thought I’d share the most small group of teens during the musicians lined up to be anointed. finally got was that Jesus is truly touching parts of the retreat for At first you could barely hear it, present in the Eucharist. Robert weekend; who developed positive me.Saturday Father Ray anointed, relationships with our teens and it was coming from the middle of received a gift, the grace to believe provided shoulders to cry on, individually, each teen with holy the teens who were still standing in and his heart was filled with so advice when asked and, above all, water and prayed over them. It was rows quietly waiting. As we much joy it overflowed. This was unconditional love. The Retreat a powerful service and while he strained to hear, the sound became an incredibly beautiful moment for louder (but still soft as a whisper) Robert, and I was blessed to have LIFE TEEN: A Parent’s Letter to as each teen joined in to serenade been a part of it. the musicians with the same song I know there are hundreds of they had sung to us. It was the most stories as each person reflects on Parents for Life Teen beautiful moment for me because it his/her own personal experience Dear Jeanette, Jami had a wonderful time, was truly a gift of love. Tears during the retreat, but I wanted to Just wanted to thank you, your can’t wait to go again and looks welled up in the eyes of the share some moments that testify to husband and the members of forward to each Sunday. Since musicians...and the Core...and the the fact that the Holy Spirit is alive Parentsfor Life for all you have September, I haven’t had to nag her teens. And as Father Ray turned to in our LIFE TEEN program. done and all that you did this past about what Mass we are going to weekend. We have seen such a have Alicia anoint him and pray The whole retreat was great! attend. over him, the sound of these We saw growth in those who change in Jami since she has joined Without you, Nancy, Helene, Life Teen. “angels” continued in the softest, returned for a second retreat and we When Life Teen initially Donna and all the others, this most meditative way. met new teens that hopefully will started, she wanted nothing to do would not be possible. Please share Sometimes... actually very continue to come to LIFE Nights. with it. Like most of the kids, she this with them, as I don’t know how often, our Core Team gets as much Since LIFE TEEN began I can tell was kind of “pushed” to go to the to write them. out of a retreat as the teens. During you that these teens are being first retreat. I prayed all that Thank you again from the the Saturday night Mass, I was affected positively. I am weekend that she would not only bottom of my heart. My prayers are looking around the room and continuously amazed by their spirit, have fun, but that she would find with you all. noticed one of our Core Members, their depth, and their love. They do some reason to want to continue to Robert, looking quite red or reach out to Jesus - God please go each week thereafter. Sincerely, flushed. I was worried he might be continue to give us the grace to I was very nervous when she sick so when he left Mass after reach out to them for YOU! got off that bus, because I knew Stephanie Henry,Jami’s Mom that whatever kind of feedback she communion, I followed him out to Thank you all from the bottom had to give would directly affect see if he was O.K. As I approached, of my heart. Be blessed. how her 13-year-old twin sisters Jeanette Ghiotto is the Parents I noticed he was crying, very would view Life Teen. Jami is also for Life Coordinator. the type of kid that either loves something or immediately hates it, so. . . When she got off that bus back in September, I felt that she had finally made a start towards that spiritual journey that I had been praying for all weekend. Not only did she love it, she told the twins how much THEY would love it. She couldn’t wait until the next retreat; that being this past weekend. Again, I prayed that she would continue to find herself spiritually.....andagain, my prayers were answered. Jami is not very demonstrative when it comes to singing in front of people, etc. But there she was at the altar, singing, doing hand motions and actually participating with the group in front of the church. Coach Whitson was sitting beside me, and she kept laughing at me because tears were running down my face for most of the Mass. Page 38 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 LIFE TEEN MARDI GRAS

by Jeanette Ghioto Hundreds of teens were there. The evening’s entertainment Beads and coins were tossed to the Incoming freshman were invited to started to the tune of “When the jazzed crowd. The floats (actually Following the Life Teen Mass this Life Night social; to get a taste Saints Go Marching In” as several little red wagons created and at Assumption on February 14th, of Life Teen. floats wound through the hall. decorated by parents) were the teens celebrated Mardi Gras dedicated to saints. They were and St. Valentine’s Day. awesome ... St. Francis, St. The hall was incredibly Parents for Life sponsored a Mardi Gras at Assumption on the Theresa, St. Patrick and St. decorated, thanks to the creativity Sunday before Ash Wednesday, which marked the beginning of the Valentine. The kids went wild! and ingenuity of Terry Miller. It Lenten Season. looked just like New Orleans! The The event was huge success with many teens enjoying a fun filled Great music was provided by parents wore Mardi Gras masks Brett Devoe. The dance floor was night that included great music, Cajun food, colorful decorations and and hats as they served the Cajun packed, with everyone having fun. meal. Kriss Herndon created a even a parade of floats. When 10:00 came around and it festive mood with the jambalaya A fun time was had by all, especially by our Parents for Life group was time to go, the kids were still and king cakes. Many parents who seems to have just as much fun... behind the scenes ...as the begging for more. BUT ... all good things must come to an end. Will worked tirelessly to provide a teens who came to the event. wonderful atmosphere for the this become a yearly event ... only teens. time will tell. Catholic Youth Rally Reflections from the by Nancy Powers in Spanish and Haitian. It was a Life Teen Coordinator very beautiful celebration. BOLD Retreat After the Rally, all the teens LIFE TEEN youth and Core were invited to enjoy unlimited rides at Busch Gardens. Roller by Alicia Villotti The theme was tough to Team loaded a bus and headed to Tampa in March for the Florida Coasters, water rides, and Life Teen Core Member imagine. Parents for Life had a State Wide Catholic Youth Rally. fellowship made the evening hard time with decorating ideas. Held at the Ice Palace, and a little spectacular. The Bold Retreat. You had to be The music didn’t use the word nippy I must say, the youth rally It was a great trip! there! I’ve participated in many “Bold”. We couldn’t touch it, see was incredible. Thousands of teens Those LIFE TEEN’s attending Catholic teen retreats, both as a it, or hear it. But God was from all over the state and from ‘retreater’ and a facilitator. Why everywhere and we could surely every Diocese participated. The the Rally were: Nicole Baker Kelly Bello was this one so different? feel it. The teens and Core focal point was a Mass celebrated Members were put together in by Bishop Lynch of the Tampa/ St. Kenny Council Emi Gonzalez Chavez small groups for activities and Petersburg Diocese. Tom Crisp Scott Douglas discussion. We were getting used to He gave an awesome homily. Katie Dover Jessica Edmonds each other and our new At the beginning of his homily he Haley Hancock Angela Hartley surroundings. The Spirit was said - “I guess the one thing Kristin Hayden Jami Henry standing between you and Montu is growing. Katie Herndon Kara Holtz me. Tough!” The teens went wild Kristina Kharman Ben Lazo By the second day a peace as all were excited about spending came over the camp. The sky was a fun-filled evening at Busch Matt Lotzia Sean Lowery clear and blue and reflected in the Gardens. John McDonald Catie McGuigan clear lake water. The sun felt warm Bishop Lynch spoke directly to Ryan McQuade Chris Miller Attention Teens and it couldn’t have been more the teens about issues in their lives. Wally Miska Charles Ramos perfect. When we all came together LIFE TEEN Musicians from the Justin Stamper Rachel Troedson Teen Handbell Choir is that afternoon to sing and praise the Tampa/St. Petersburg area provided Matt Westhoff Melissa Westhoff Lord, it was truly from our hearts music for the Mass. Our teens Michele Westhoff Jamie Willis in search of new ringers. recognized every song! The Mass and souls. Suzanne Willis David Villotti It was hard to leave the was also multi-ethnic with readings No experience necessary! closeness and tranquility we had LIFE TEEN Wish List achieved. I know I was on a retreat Would you like to make a difference? If you can count and have ‘high’ and didn’t want to come LIFE TEEN has a need for the following items: good hand/eye down. I am blessed to say that coordination, we can teach when I now see the wooden cross A computer/printer for the new LIFE TEEN Coordinator you the rest! in the Gathering Area of the Sound monitors for the LIFE TEEN Music Program Church, which we all signed as a Set of small walkie-talkies All Students symbol of our commitment to Sponsorship toward out-of-town trips being Bold for our faith, it takes me Junior High thru College Sponsorship of Core/Musicians to attend - back to the memories and feelings LIFE TEEN Training Programs are Welcome! we shared over the weekend. It was a place where love was Wireless clip-on microphones for skits and talks For more Information all around and we all took a little T-shirts for retreats and trips Call Susan Grossholz piece of it with us. We’ll share that Donations for the LIFE TEEN Office 384-4008 or 745-4672 love in a new found Boldness and thank Jesus for a treasured gift. If you can assist in obtaining any of these items please contact Nancy Powers, LIFE TEEN Coordinator (398-1961) May, 1999 Christ the King Courier Page 39 Teen’s View of BOLD Retreat by Patrick Sullivan arranged to have pizza and soft drinks there for us. All the pizza I did not want to go! I knew I’d you could eat; that sounded pretty be gone from my friends for a good. whole weekend. It was going to be At about 6 o’clock we loaded like forty-eight hours of ... church onto two buses and were on our way. Our destination was just east this... God that. It wouldn’t be fun. We learned some new songs. Father explain; it was just a great feeling! I did not want to go on the retreat of Tallahassee, at Cherry Lake. We sang songs and some of us tried to Ray, from Assumption, celebrated Singing continued, blessings were at all. My parents told me, “Go ... Mass. Afterwards, we had a bonfire given to the Music Group. They just once.” I knew I would have a sleep on the trip. We arrived at Cherry Lake and Reconciliation was available. had been singing for us; now it was lousy time. It would be boring. I about 9:30 or 10:00. I could see There was free time and then bed. our turn to sing for them. Tears was going to prove everyone cabins and the main hall and that Saturday morning we got up were flowing, tears of joy. ‘Good wrong. was about it. Everyone was happy and ready for breakfast. Once vibes’ were everywhere. But I didn’t have a lousy time. to be off the bus. We were taken outside I saw the lake. It was huge. Later we went to a campfire It was not boring; not even close. I into the main hall where the Life It looked like a big sheet of glass. and sang and had snacks. We made made new friends and became Teen Music Group was jamming There were homes on the lake, it more friends and felt closer to each more aware of my God. It was a away. I liked that. There was a was a beautiful sight. Our small other. It was a cold, cold night, but good learning and spiritual birthday cake for Katie, one the groups formed and we headed for there was a glow within all of us. It experience. Let me tell you about Life Teen girls. We had some the main hall and breakfast. Lots of was a fantastic day. it. snacks, and then assigned a Core food! The ‘Parent for Life’ manned Sunday morning we awoke and On February 19th at 5:30 Member for each cabin. the kitchen. went to the main hall and had a “Q everyone met at Christ the King. After storing our gear in the After some free time, the & A” session before breakfast. We registered and were assigned cabin, we returned to the hall. morning session started. Core Afterwards, the teens talked about cabins. We loaded our bags onto a There was a talk about the theme of Members spoke about what their their lives and spiritual truck. The Life Teen Core group the retreat - “It’s Time To Be Bold.” faith has meant to them, experiences. personally, what being a Catholic Small discussions followed and Reflections from Parents for Life and on what God has meant to then we gathered in a large group to them. reflect on the questions. Lunchtime We had a short break for lunch was a time to thank the Parents for LIFE TEEN and then continued our session. We Life who had been serving us all then broke up into discussion weekend. groups and answered questions, We had some free time and then and reflected on our beliefs. Back met and presented Fr. Ray, Carlos, BOLD RETREAT together in a large group, we Angie, Nancy and the other Core shared our answers. members with beaded bracelets that by Jeanette Ghioto She did not want to go on the In our free time we could we had made. A person from each BOLD retreat. choose different mini-sessions to group brought us rocks (BOLD- It was an incredible working of I want to share with you what attend. Some in prayer; others in ers) with our names and the words the Holy Spirit. Those of you who Phillip told her. Phillip is the best discussions, some games, some “Time to be Bold” written on it. We were at Life Teen Mass on husband in the whole world, as the st music. I went to the music with put our names on a huge cross, February 21 , did you catch it? parents on the weekend know, Tony Steve. Boy, it was cool! showing that we were BOLD. We Did you see the difference? THEY because I say it all the time. He is We gathered again in the main received our BOLD t-shirts and GET IT! THEY REALLY TRULY also a very wise father. He told her hall and had another discussion then loaded up on the bus for our GET IT. that it is easy to love something before dinner. Dinner was great, trip home. On the trip home the The teens who stood on the when it is fun and entertaining and with meatballs the size of a tennis Core Members handed out notes altar gazing upon the wafer of feels good. The building of one’s ball. One thing for sure; they sure from different people on the retreat. bread as it became the Body of character; that deep thread of knew how to feed us. Parents met us at Christ the King Christ in the hands of the Priest - wherewithal that keeps us on track After dinner, Fr. Ray and Carlos with cheers as we got off the bus. THEY KNEW IT! From the when we really don’t want to but (the seminarian) had a ‘Question At Mass we were even more parents’ perspective, we had no know we should comes from doing and Answer’ session regarding involved; it meant more to be up idea exactly when this something good when it is not at its faith. We then celebrated Mass. there on the altar. A skit was done transformation occurred. We could peak. Consistently staying on course when the ‘feel good’ wears Afterward, we stood in rows with and then we got up to do our song. just see that it did. our small groups. Father Ray gave We were moving all over the place. Was it when we were being off, that is the reserve that we will use during our deepest trials - us a blessing and anointed us with We got the Spirit! There were hugs entertained by the energetic holy water. We sang ... I felt and more tears as we said our youngsters on their Trust Walk in Loving someone when they are not being lovable - Studying something different ... something, goodbyes. the middle of the night? Or during I’ve never ever felt before. It felt The retreat was fun. It was life the marshmallow roast that took something when it is boring - Holding on when the storms of life like ... I could take on the world! changing. If you have a chance to place in the wee hours? Was it Was it the presence of God? Was go on a Life Teen retreat, don’t when kids weren’t doing exactly beat us down. The depth of our character can then hold us firm. We He surrounding us? It was miss it. what they should be - but were something that is very hard to BE BOLD! trying? know and can depend on our inner The peaks and valleys of the strength and God’s faithfulness weekend were incredible. The because we’ve practiced, because Life is But a Rose faithfulness of our Lord was we’ve done it before AND WE’RE INCREDIBLE! He helped us REWARDED. by Silas W. Osborne rose stands out in the garden, through the sleepless times and the Rachel is so happy that she did testifying that it has life. You see hard times. He carried us when we the BOLD retreat. Will she keep it When you get up in morning, the color it has and how beautiful it were bone tired. He rewarded us alive? Only God knows and that is do you see your life before you or is. That is a testimony to life. You parents when the different groups good enough for me. do you see a rose? Let me tell you know that God is present there. composed songs of appreciation to I want you to know that I love the difference between a rose and us - each with style and grace and your teens! There were good, bad your life. What I talking about will God gives us a life to enjoy. and ugly times. There were creativity. These were your kids. let you know these two aspects. Your life is similar but different When the band stopped playing incredible opportunities of grace from a rose. God gave us a soul to and faithfulness by our Lord which Your life is like a rose but and singing - and your kids sang understand beauty; that is why we back to them - acappella - in made the bad and ugly look like different. Life has meaning that appreciation for them, they were what they really were - building tells you God is present. Look see beauty in a rose. We know that awesome.. blocks to the good. around you and what do you see? God is present because He WOW! Now, the hard part. Will this continue? Only God Do you see yourself or someone enlightens our mind with beauty. else? You know that life is a KEEPING it alive. Phillip and I knows and He is wiser than all of God is ever present so that we are have had numerous discussions us.Thank you for sharing your quibble or question mark. engulfed in His beauty. God gave with our daughter. She really did teens with me and with the Parents Comparing your life and a rose, not want to do Life Teen. She loved for Life group. We were genuinely you will the difference. light, and so we know that our life the Flame retreat. She enjoys the blessed. A rose is but a flower, but must is before us. We are always in the Mass and some of the Life Nights. have sunshine and nourishment. A presence of God. Page 40 Christ the King Catholic Church May, 1999 The Story A Look Into Fr. Tom McCarthy’s Life Father Tom McCarthy has been incumbent priest did not wish to one of our visiting priests for many leave the parish. years. He has helped out in our My first job was to insure the parish during the summer season schools against storm damage. A so that our priests can have their New Zealand company provided much needed vacations. He has led the insurance coverage. We had a very interesting- and, at times, very little information to supply to dangerous life. The Courier staff the company except for the number thought it would be interesting to of schools. The insurance coverage take a glimpse into Father Tom’s proved to be fortunate because we journal entries. had a bad storm and many of the buildings were damaged. The On July 3, 1955, I was one of insurance agent inspected the thirty-five Holy Ghost seminarians buildings, and the money to repair ordained for the missions. It was them was provided by the the biggest ordination in the history insurance company. of the Irish Provence of Holy Ghost In 1967, war had broken out Fathers. The newly ordained priests and Father Mick Flynn was in the had one year of studies to finish for parish next to Akiyi, a very remote The 1958 Holy Trinity Grade School winning soccer team the Faculties Exam. After passing parish. He called to visit me on the this exam and with the permission way home to his parish. I asked him parishioners. My menu was maize In Port Harcourt, we were first of our bishop, we were permitted to to stay at my mission and travel boiled three times a day, a few kept in a private house. I was hear confessions. down to his mission on the sausages and a beer on Christmas interrogated by the Secret Police In 1956 I was appointed to the following day. He agreed. Day. and had to write out my life history Arch-diocese of Onitsha (in Africa) Early next morning, we set out Bishop McGettrick had built a three times. under Archbishop Heerey. My first for Akiyi. Mick had the teachers’ village in his Diocese of Abakaliki, Next all the mission priests salaries. We traveled down only to were brought to one compound. An task was to learn the Ibo language a colony where lepers could receive so that I could hear confessions. be told all the roads were blown up. Army truck arrived filled with Mick knew another way, and we treatment and those who improved about 20 priests. The truck took us The language was very difficult. were able to work and earn money. Only a few missionaries were able reached the mission and paid the to a court house, and we were all to preach in the language. For a teachers. The happiest day in my life was brought in and accused of entering sermon, an interpreter was needed Later, Ibo soldiers on push when the catechist and myself the country illegally and accepting to translate the English sermon into bikes and in cars came to the visited the leper colony on work without a permit. We were the Ibo language. After learning the mission and accused the two of us Christmas Day. A supply of food sentenced to 6 months in jail on Ibo language for confessions, I was of being mercenaries. These was given to them. It would last a each count. sent to Enuguezike, a border town soldiers were working for the few weeks. The lepers were In the Port Harcourt Prison with North Nigeria. Federal Army. It was a very serious extremely grateful. there were in excess of 5,000 In 1958, I was appointed curate charge and conviction could Conditions at the Mission prisoners. We were brought to a to Archbishop Heerey. We were involve the death penalty. House were very primitive, with locked shed. The only furniture was fortunate enough to have Holy I still remember the numbers tiered steel beds, just plain steel painted on the soldiers rifles; many rodents in the building. beds - no blankets or pillows. Trinity grade school and, with a lot In the last days of the war, of help from the school faculty, #659341 and #734692. (We got a The Lebanese people in the GOOD look at those rifles). When rumor had it that the Federal Army region sent in food to us. The toilets produced a soccer team. Because was making its way through the the students were too poor to afford we were brought back to my in the prison consisted of an shoes, they played barefoot. mission, Mick and I demanded to bush, not on the main highway. A elevated sheet of concrete with two Despite this handicap, the team see the two soldiers with those patrol of the Ibo Army set out in the or three very narrow holes on the won a trophy for the Archdiocese numbers on their guns. The matter truck, searching the area, and said top. From outside the jail, there was for the first time in 13 years. was finished there and then by the there was no Federal Army in sight. a gap in the wall where a chamber In 1960, I was appointed pastor commanding officer. A short time later, the people pot was put in and in due time, of Uga parish. It was not my most After that, it was unsafe for me left the parish, the Biafran Army when filled, was taken away by successful mission as I was robbed to remain at the mission. So I went left the parish, and the vigilantes other prisoners to the main privy. by the cook of 3000 Nigerian down country and, after many left. There was no security now. We had a visit from one of the pounds ($5,000). worrying moments, made my way The catechist, his family and politicians who was very angry The years between 1962 and back to Ireland. myself were the last to leave with us because of our presence in 1965 I was pastor of St. John’s Bishop Whelan of Owerri met Ezinihite. I brought the Blessed the country at the end of the war. Parish Owelli. St. John’s Parish had me and said he was without priests, Sacrament, and we headed for Before concluding his tirade, he 6,000 school children and 2,000 so I volunteered to help him in his Bishop Whelan’s headquarters. said we were all being expelled We arrived there safely in a from Nigeria. adults. Let me say that the Catholic Diocese of Owerri. th Church in East Nigeria was self In 1968, I flew to Malta with a Volkswagen Beetle. We were told On February 4 the first of the supporting. The schools were built Holy Rosary nun, Sister Woods, to get out of the country that night. priests, 101 in number, were by both pagans and Catholics. from Amsterdam, Holland. There There was one priest who, for expelled by plane flying out of Teachers’ salaries were paid by the we had a stopover and a beer. The security reasons, had to leave Lagos Airport. government, and the pastors of the plane was propeller driven. On Biafra on the last plane that night. I received an appointment in Father Joe Carter and myself school paid the monthly salaries to board were supplies of fish and Ireland and was able to look after the teachers. The pastors were maize. We sat on the fish boxes were told to find him and get him with no safety belts. out of the country. my aging mother. responsible for the maintenance of In January 1987, Monsignor the schools. We continued our 16 hour Father Joe and myself checked journey to the Island of San Tome, out the car. I was in shorts, vest and Mortimer Danaher, Father Seamus In 1965, Fr. Crowley, a O’Flynn, and Father Joe Whitehead Vincentian priest, came to conduct a Portuguese possession. The T-shirt and had my Irish passport following night, in darkness, we set with me. We traveled through the accompanied the body of Father a three month mission. Lapsed Jack Sheppard to Ireland for burial. Catholics were visited in their out for Biafra. night and drove into a front line The runway was a highway patrol of the Nigerian Army. We Father Sheppard was a member of homes beginning at five o’clock in our Holy Ghost community and the morning. The net result of the about the size of one section of the were stopped, searched and then Arlington Expressway. The road made to march in single file in front had been an associate pastor at mission was 1,000 confirmations, of the soldiers who kept torches Christ the King for several years 800 baptisms, and 90 marriages. was lit up on either side for about one minute for the cargo plane to trained on us all the while. The car following his retirement from the As the Biafran War took place was taken over by the commanding African missions. from 1968 to 1970, those who did take its bearings for touch down. As you see, we landed safely. officer. The soldiers gave us a beer Monsignor Danaher invited me not make full use of the retreat, and then we were driven away to to Christ the King parish in the never got another chance to do so. My parish was now Ezenihite. The parish work included looking Port Harcourt many miles away. At summer. I accepted Monsignor’s On return from leave in Ireland, dawn we saw the Federal Army, in 1966, I was appointed to Sacred after the children. Many were offer and have been coming to thousands of them on the way for Christ the King each summer since Heart Parish in Iwollo. I had a starving and the food supplies, salt the final onslaught. stormy appointment, as the and maize (corn), were for the then.