Catholic Spirituality: Prayer works!

From the Bishop Holy Cross Confirmation

Local news International Festival of Food Saint Lawrence of Rome was one of the seven deacons of ancient Rome, serving journey of faith under Pope Sixtus II. Saint Lawrence crowned by Baby Jesus Benjamin Parrilla by Claude de Jongh.

Bishop Herbert Bevard and Deacon Benjamin Parrilla. Diaconate Ordination the Catholic The Newsletter of the Roman Catholic Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands notes from the bishop’s desk Most Reverend Herbert A. Bevard PUBLISHER Msgr. Michael Kosak, P.A. DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Simonia Dagou Sarah Jane von Haack Holy Cross WRITERS/ASSISTANT EDITORS

Frank Iacovella GRAPHIC DESIGNER The Most Reverend Confirmation Herbert A. Bevard, bishop Bernetia Akin of the Diocese of St. Thomas Valerie Douté Thirty-five students were confirmed at Holy PROOFREADERS in the Virgin Islands. Cross Catholic Church on May 20, 2012. Deacon Emith Fludd CIRCULATION Br. James Petrait, OSFS WEBMASTER

August 2012 • Vol. 28 : Issue 8

The Catholic Islander is published monthly by the Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. P.O. Box 301825, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, 00803-1825 www.catholicislander.com Telephone: (340) 774-3166 ext. 211, Fax: (340) 774-5816 E-mail: [email protected] © FAITH Catholic™.

Please submit news, digital photography and advertising for the September 2012 issue of The Catholic Islander by August 10, 2012.

12 On the cover: Benjamin Parrilla is ordained a deacon. 3  Local News 7  ¡Buenas noticias! 8  Catholic Education 9  Catholic Charities bishop’s calendar August 11, 7 p.m., Gala Dinner for the 65th 10 Spotlight on Youth anniversary of Our Lady of Cassi Hill Pilgrimage, 12  Cover Story August 4-5, Mission Appeal: Church of the Good Sugar Bay, St. Thomas Shepherd, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 14  The Church in the World August 12, 2:30 p.m., Lady of Cassi Hill Pilgrimage, August 9, 16  Saint of the Month 50th anniversary Mass for Sister Mary 65th anniversary Loretta, M.C., Christiansted 18  Catholic Spirituality August 13-15, Bishop Bevard will be receiving August 10, 9 a.m., Meeting regarding the direction of representatives from the Catholic Home Missions 20  Journey of Faith Sts. Peter and Paul School Society 22-26  Parish Calendars August 11, 11 a.m., 50th anniversary Mass for Sister August 18, 6 p.m., Mass at Sts. Peter and Paul 25  Pride of the Parish Florine Bailey ICM, St. Patrick’s Church Cathedral

2 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com Liturgical calendar: St. Sixtus II, pope and companions, martyrs August 7 | St. Dominic, priest August 8 | St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, virgin and martyr August 9 | St. Lawrence, deacon and martyr August 10 | St. Clare, virgin August 11 | St. Jane Frances de Chantel, religious August 12 local news

OLMC Patronal Mission Father Herman Sharplis was the guest speaker at Our Lady of Mount Carmel’s Patronal Mission from July 9-13. OLMC is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The theme was “Together Building the Kingdom of God.”

ICM Sisters’ Assembly The Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, also known as ICM Sisters, who have missions in Jamaica, Dominica, Haiti and St. Croix, will gather for their Retreat and District Assembly from Aug. 1-20 at the Light of Christ Retreat Center at Frederiksted, St. Croix. Sister Bernadette Hughes, CP, of Mount Calvary Retreat Center of Mandeville, Jamaica, will direct the retreat and facilitate the meeting. Sister Saveria Jeganathan, the ICM general superior from Rome, also will be present. The retreat will center on elements of Augustinian spirituality, which is part of the ICM spiritual heritage. The theme is “Journeying Together with the God of Creation,” Most Rev. Herbert Bevard, bishop of the Diocese of an invitation to “commit ourselves now to a transformation St. Thomas, photographed with Bruce Anderson (left), a of consciousness, take concrete actions to renew our life seminarian in the St. Thomas Diocese, who is studying and participate in the enhancement of the quality of all at St. Paul’s Seminary in Minnesota; Father John Meyer, a life.” (ICM Chapter Mandate 2010) priest from the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis; Msgr. Aloysius Callahan, rector of the St. Paul Seminary Deacons' Retreat in Minnesota; and Msgr. Jerome Feudjio, “Faith and the Call to Holiness” was the theme for the rector of Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral. deacons' retreat held July 14-15 at the Light of Christ Retreat Center in Frederiksted, St. Croix. His Excellency, the Most Rev. Kenneth Richards, bishop of St. John’s-Basseterre, was the retreat director. Callista Julien, Ms. Mason and the staff provided an excellent bishop’s calendar (cont.) menu and care August 19, 9:30 p.m., Confirmation at Our Lady of Mount during the retreat. Carmel and Installation of Fr. Anthony Abraham as Pastor Bishop Richards gave five presentations August 23, 5:45 p.m., Meeting of the Home and School and made the retreat Association of Sts. Peter and Paul School interactive so that the theme was fully August 24, 6 p.m., Meeting of the Diocesan Finance Council understood and appreciated by all. August 25, 6:30 p.m., Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Forty members of the diaconate August 26, 8:30 a.m. Mass at Sts. Peter and Paul community Cathedral attended.

Liturgical calendar: St. Sixtus II, pope and companions, martyrs August 7 | St. Dominic, priest August 8 | St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, virgin and martyr August 9 | St. Lawrence, deacon and martyr August 10 | St. Clare, virgin August 11 | St. Jane Frances de Chantel, religious August 12 3 local news Fathers' Day Events St. Patrick Church to Replace Shutters Father John Mark distributes gifts to fathers on Fathers' St. Patrick Church is in the process of having its aging Day at St. Joseph Church during the 10 a.m. Spanish Mass. shutters replaced. The shutters are being mass produced in a local warehouse in preparation for installation. Each shutter stands 15 feet high, in addition to its jalousie. The Frederiksted historical district required that all the old hinges and hardware be reused, whenever possible. The shutters are being made of mahogany to make them termite and weather resistant. Completion is scheduled for the fall.

Fathers enjoy a Fathers' Day brunch at Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

New Altar Server Liandra Dagou, front, introduced Linique Dagou (left) Joachim Diaz, an incoming fourth-grader at Sts. Peter Kitori Thomas and Liv Peltier before they recited a poem and Paul Catholic School, is being trained by Mgsr. Antonio for fathers during the brunch. Verzosa to become an altar server. He served at his first Mass on July 12 during the Santo Niño Mass at St. Anne Chapel.

4 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com St. Pontian, pope and martyr and St. Hippolytus, priest and martyr August 13 | St. Maximilian Kolbe, priest and martyr August 14 | Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary August 15 St. Stephen of Hungary, August 16 | St. Bernard, abbot and doctor of the Church August 20 Sacred Heart Society Retreat The Sacred Heart Society of St. Patrick Church, St. reflection on Scripture readings. Deacon Joseph Mark Croix, pose after their retreat day in honor of the feast of of St. Ann joined in for the Benediction. the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Members of the Sacred Heart Society met on St. Croix for a retreat to celebrate the Confraternity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary on June 16. The theme was “Answering the Call by Loving as I Love You.” Parishioners from St. Patrick, St. Joseph and St. Ann were in attendance. The guest speaker was Elizabeth John Baptiste, M.Ed. The day was spent in praise, worship and

ICM Sisters Celebrate Feast Day The ICM Sisters (Immaculate Heart of Mary) celebrated their feast day by attending Mass at St. Ann Church, St. Croix, on Saturday, June 16. They are shown below with Father Simon Peter Opira, associate pastor.

St. Pontian, pope and martyr and St. Hippolytus, priest and martyr August 13 | St. Maximilian Kolbe, priest and martyr August 14 | Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary August 15 St. Stephen of Hungary, August 16 | St. Bernard, abbot and doctor of the Church August 20 5 local news

Holy Cross Confirmation OLMC Kallaloo Kitchen Thirty-five students were confirmed at Holy Cross Catholic Suzanne and Madelyn Coles recently joined OLMC Church on May 20. Kallaloo Kitchen volunteers to serve food and distribute care packages to the homeless.

New Member Our Lady of Mount Carmel welcomed Safiya Thomas into The Coles Family of Texas cooked and served the the parish on July 1. homeless on July 16.

Sts. Peter and Paul Feast Day Celebration The Sts. Peter and Paul Cathedral parishioners gathered to Caribbean Catholic Network – St. Croix hold a reception after Mass on July 1 in the Hospitality Lounge Livestream – St. Ann Church to celebrate the patronal feast day, which was June 29. The 9:30 a.m. Sunday Mass will no longer be on the radio. The Mass will be broadcast on Channel 7 — St. Croix, but also will be available on the Internet for our former parishioners and off-island friends on St. Thomas/St. John and throughout the Caribbean — indeed the world. Please feel free to tune in and experience our Sunday Masses, as well as many other special events. www.livestream.com/ caribbeancatholicnetwork7

6 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, August 22 | St. Rose of Lima, virgin August 23 | St. Bartholomew, apostle August 24 | St. Joseph Calasanz, priest August 25 | St. Monica August 27 | St. Augustine, bishop and doctor of the Church August 28 | Passion of St. John the Baptist August 29 ¡buenas noticias! Graduación en Good Shepherd Center El viernes 29 de junio, tuvo lugar la ceremonia de Sta. Cruz graduación de 13 estudiantes adultos de los cursos de • Miembros del Movimiento de Cursillos de Cristiandad computación que imparte Hna. Digna Rivas, RGS., a lo llevan la imagen de la Virgen María, hacen una largo del curso lectivo en Good Shepherd Center en la meditación y rezan el rosario en casas privadas el Parroquia Holy Cross en Santa Cruz. segundo lunes de cada mes a las 7 p.m. Llamen a la Los cursos comprenden Windows, Word y Excel. Los Iglesia San José para asistir. estudiantes pasan de un curso al otro según su propio • Miembros del Movimiento de Cursillos de Cristiandad ritmo. dirigen un círculo de oración en la Capilla San Miguel de Seis estudiantes completaron dos cursos durante el año la Iglesia San José último lunes de cada mes a las 7 p.m. y seis estudiantes culminaron un curso. Una estudiante, • Feligreses rezan el rosario y comparten las lecturas del Yoanny Lorenzo, finalizó los tres cursos. próximo domingo en la Iglesia Holy Cross los martes a Después de las palabras de aperture y bienvenida, el las 7 p.m. Padre Wojtek Kusek, se dirigió a los graduados y los • Miembros del Movimiento de Cursillos de Cristiandad se felicitó por sus logros. Los graduados son: Alexandra F. reúnen para la ultreya en su oficina de la Iglesia San José Sirena, Elio Cedeño, Francisco Díaz, Johan Lina Herrera, los jueves después de la Misa de las 7 p.m. Roberto López, Tania Batista, Teddy Trinidad De la Rosa, • Feligreses rezan un rosario pro-vida bilingüe en la Iglesia Yoanny Lorenzo y Zaida Díaz, Altagracia García, Berta San José los viernes a las 6 p.m. Feliz, Jayfresi Abad Rodríguez y Virginia Bello. Tres de los graduados no pudieron estar presentes en la ceremonia. Educación para adultos Acompañados por familiares y amistades, los graduados La Iglesia Holy Cross en Sta. Cruz, con la colaboración recibieron su diploma por cada curso concluido, de las Hermanas del Buen Pastor, ofrece lecciones de enseguida se dirigieron a la audiencia expresando cuánto alfabetización en español, inglés como segunda idioma y este curso significa para ellos, agradecieron a Dios, a cursos de computación (Windows, Word, Excel e internet) la Parroquia y a Hna. Digna por esta oportunidad de en el Centro Buen Pastor. Este servicio va dirigido formación. prioritariamente a la población inmigrante de idioma La ceremonia de graduación concluyó con una española. bendición muy significativa, seguida de un refrigerio, felicitaciones y alegría de todos los presentes. Protección de niños La Diócesis de Sto. Tomás en las Islas Vírgenes está Reuniones mensuales de comprometida a proteger a los niños de todo daño. Si espiritualidad y oración Ud. tiene conocimiento de algún sacerdote, diácono Sto. Tomás o empleado de la iglesia que haya abusado de algún • El Presidio María, Arca de la Alianza, de la Legión de menor, favor de comunicarse inmediatamente con la María se reúne en el Salón de Hospitalidad de la Catedral Coordinadora Diocesana de la Protección de los Niños, San Pedro y San Pablo los domingos a las 2 p.m. Callista Julien, al (340) 774-3166 o (340) 719-4020. • Un círculo de oración se reúne en el Salón de Hospitalidad de la Catedral San Pedro y San Pablo los lunes a las 6 p.m. Hna. Digna Rivas, Padre Wojtek Kusek y Yoanny Lorenzo, quien muestra orgullosa uno de sus tres diplonas.

El Sacramento de las Santas Ordenes al Diaconado Permanente, fue conferido por el Obispo Herbert Bevard con la "imposición de las manos" a Benjamín Parrilla.

Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, August 22 | St. Rose of Lima, virgin August 23 | St. Bartholomew, apostle August 24 | St. Joseph Calasanz, priest August 25 | St. Monica August 27 | St. Augustine, bishop and doctor of the Church August 28 | Passion of St. John the Baptist August 29 7 catholic education

Youth Rehab Photographed at right, St. Joseph High School 12th grade students and their moderator prepare to play games and take part in discussion groups with a group of detainees at the Youth Rehabilitation Center on St. Croix. The moderator, Meg Bryson, is a religion teacher at St. Joseph High School. The Youth Rehabilitation Center (YRC) on St. Croix is a secured detention facility in the territory providing incarceration for pre-trial and adjudicated delinquents, as well as adolescents legally transferred to adult status for committing serious felonies. Usually, the St. Joseph High School group meets with the YRC detainees once a week. The program received a grant this past year. The groups take part in activities, including a ropes course. Bryson said that this program is truly an insightful experience that demonstrates faith in action by good works.

Graduation at Good Shepherd Center On Friday, June 29, 13 adult students graduated from completed the requirements for two courses and six students various computer courses at the Good Shepherd Center finished one course. One student, Yoanny Lorenzo, completed at Holy Cross Catholic Church, St. Croix. Six students all three courses. During the year-long program, the students studied Microsoft Windows, Word and Excel, each advancing to the next course at his or her own pace. The courses were given by Sister Digna Rivas, RGS. After the opening prayer and welcome, Father Wojtek Kusek addressed the graduates and congratulated them on their achievements. The graduates were: Alexandra F. Sirena, Elio Cedeño, Francisco Díaz, Johan Lina Herrera, Roberto López, Tania Batista, Teddy Trinidad De la Rosa, Yoanny Lorenzo, Zaida Díaz, Altagracia García, Berta Feliz, Jayfresi Abad Rodríguez and Virginia Bello. Three of the graduates were not able to attend the ceremony.

St. Mary’s School Graduation St. Mary’s Elementary School on St. Croix held its eighth-grade graduation on June 2.

8 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com news from catholic charities In Memoriam A burial service was held for Oscar Joseph on Wednesday, Food Drive July 11. Deacon Austin Medina officiated. The service was Catholic Charities attended by some of Oscar’s friends, including staff and outreach worker Florence volunteers of Catholic Charities. Ocsar was an established John Jules and volunteer presence in the Berne’s Alley-Sts. Peter and Paul area. He Joycelyn O'Garra are shown was loved by those who knew him. Oscar was born in at a Catholic Charities food Trinidad and worked in the food and beverage industry on drive on Saturday, June 1, St. Thomas. He had been homeless for more than 20 years at Food Town Supermarket before finding permanent housing with the assistance of on St. Croix. Catholic Charities in late 2008.

The International Festival of Food Virgin Islands residents are in for a feast of mind, body and soul as the Friends of Bethlehem House Shelter for the Homeless hosts the Virgin Islands' first International Festival of Food. Besides the more than 20 booths featuring foods from around the world, the festival also will present “Food for the Soul Book Fair” – a presentation of local poets and writers reading from their published work. Delicious treats such as lomi salmon, kalua pig, shark and bread, fish and fungi and paimi will be featured. These dishes are from Italy, Hawaii, Mexico West Africa, St. Lucia, New Orleans, Rasta Nation, St. Thomas and St. Croix, to name a few. The festival, set for Sunday, August 12, 2012, at St. Croix’ Agricultural Fair Grounds, also will feature a flea market, arts and crafts, and live performances by Stanley & the Ten Sleepless Knights, Mada Niles, Crucian Dance Company, Cherise King, King Derby and more. The “Food for the Soul Book Fair” will culminate with the presentation of The Yellow Cedar Literary Award to each of the Catholic Charities’ August Food Drive three winners of poetry, fiction and children’s book. The literary contest is open to U.S. and British Virgin Islands residents. Please collect the following items at your The International Festival of Food will benefit the homeless church, school or workplace: programs of Catholic Charities, and will give Virgin Islands • Canned salmon residents an opportunity to tour the world in one day without leaving St. Croix. • Macaroni For more information, call Daisy Lafond at Catholic Charities on • Cut green beans St. Croix at 773-0132.

9 spotlight on youth

Youth Group Fundraiser St. Patrick's Youth Group, Youth of Tomorrow, held a bake sale at Kmart to raise funds so that they may attend World Youth Day in Brazil in 2013. World Youth Day is celebrated every two years and the Holy Father, Pope Benedict, will be present.

Youth Retreat The Diocesan Youth Ministry sponsored a retreat from June 28 to July 1 on St. Croix for youth ages 14-19 at St. Gerard’s Hall, Frederiksted. Activities included “Energize, Encourage, Encounter Basket Turnover.”

10 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com New Club Inductees Father John Mark, principal of St. Joseph High School on St. Croix, inducted 10 students into the school’s Catholic Club during the school Mass on May 16.

Science Fair The physical science students of St. Joseph High School on OSFS, physical science and physics teacher, was the moderator. St. Croix participated in a Science Fair on May 18. Six seniors Below, first-place winner Malika Francois, ninth grade, displays from the physics class were the judges, and Brother James Petrait, her project.

11 Diaconate Ordination Deacon candidate Benjamin Parrilla is presented to Bishop Bevard.

Benjamin Parrilla prostrates himself before the Blessed Sacrament as the clergy and congregation sing the Litany of Saints.

12 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com cover story

The Sacrament of Holy Orders is conferred on Benjamin Parrilla with the “laying on of hands” by Bishop Herbert Bevard.

After the ordination, Deacon Joseph Mark, Dean of Formation, and Father John Mark, Master of Ceremonies, assist the newly ordained deacon with his dalmatic.

13 the Church in the world Philippine Bishops Release Pastoral Letter on New Evangelization

Looking towards the celebration of the fifth centenary of Catholic missionary from the Philippines who was martyred in the arrival of Christianity to the nation, the Catholic Bishops Guam in 1672. He is set to be canonized by Pope Benedict XVI Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) released a pastoral on October 21. letter on "Era of the New Evangelization." The pastoral letter, highlighting The letter, which was delivered by Archbishop Jose S. nine priorities of the New Palma, president of the CBCP and archbishop of Cebu, stated Evangelization for the country, comes that the Catholic Church in the Philippines will "embark on a as a precursor to the upcoming nine-year spiritual journey that will culminate with the great Synod of Bishops to be held in jubilee of 2021." October in Rome under the theme While recounting the history of the first Christians baptized of “The New Evangelization for the in the Philippines, the president of the CBCP also expressed joy Transmission of the Christian Faith.” at the upcoming canonization of Pedro Calungsod, a Roman (Source: Zenit)

Pope working on Volume 3 be shorter than the first two of Jesus of Nazareth volumes. Volume 1 of Jesus The director of the Vatican press of Nazareth was published in office says Benedict XVI is working 2007 and Volume 2 in 2011. on the third and final volume of Jesuit Father Federico Jesus of Nazareth during his time at Lombardi also told journalists Castel Gandolfo. the Holy Father is preparing This last portion of the work speeches for his trip to will be about Our Lord's infancy Lebanon in September. and childhood. It is expected to (Source: Zenit)

14 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com News Briefs Sainthood cause for young Spanish Pope sets date to declare two new publication of leaked Vatican documents, catechist moves forward Church doctors but thanked the vast majority of people The diocesan phase has concluded for Pope Benedict XVI has announced that who work at the Vatican for their the sainthood cause of Rebeca Rocamora, he will declare St. Hildegard of Bingen dedication and fidelity. a Spanish catechist who died in 1996 at and St. John of Avila as Doctors of the the age of 20 after a long illness and was Church on October 7 at the beginning of Dominican sister to head bishops’ known for her tireless service to others. this year’s Synod of Bishops in Rome. Catholic education office Sister John Mary Fleming, a Dominican Vatican publishes guidelines on Bill on sex-selection abortion fails to Sister of St. Cecilia Congregation in apparitions and private revelations get needed votes Nashville, has been appointed executive The decision to publish the guidelines A bill that would have prohibited director of the Secretariat of Catholic comes as a special commission abortions motivated by the gender of Education of the U.S. Conference of established by the Congregation for the the unborn child failed to gain a needed Catholic Bishops. Doctrine of the Faith moves into its third two-thirds majority in the U.S. House of year investigating alleged apparitions by Representatives. Pope reveals next world meeting of Our Lady in the town of Medjugorje in families Bosnia-Herzegovina. Vatican newspaper's new insert Pope Benedict XVI announced that focuses on women the seventh World Meeting of Families Peruvian Church leaders concerned The Vatican newspaper L'Osservatore will be hosted by the Archdiocese of after two detained during mine Romano has launched a monthly insert Philadelphia in 2015. protests dedicated to women, aiming to bring Church leaders in Peru called for greater attention to their important role HHS mandate an attempt to remove dialogue and expressed concern in the Church. religion from society about the detention of two human Archbishop Samuel Aquila of Denver rights workers in the southern Andes Pope deplores ‘VatiLeaks’ scandal says the federal contraception mandate Mountains during violent protests over a Pope Benedict XVI voiced regret for is the result of a larger push to remove copper mine. the turmoil surrounding the recent religion from the public sphere.

Advertise your business in The Catholic Islander! Call (340) 774-3166 for rates. 15 saint of the month “Poor Ladies,” became known for their severely austere living — they did not wear shoes, ate no meat and kept silent Saint Clare most of the time. In 1216, Clare accepted the role of of Assisi abbess of San Damiano. In all things, Clare sought to imitate Francis’ way Born: July 16, 1194 of life and to guide the sisters of her Died: August 11, 1253 order to do the same. She followed Feast Day: August 11 Francis’ example so exactly that she was sometimes called alter Franciscus Clare was born in Assisi, Italy, to (another Francis). She cared for Francis Favorino Scifi, count of Sasso-Rosso, during his illness at the end of his life, and his wife Ortolana. Even as a child, Clare was devoted until his death in 1226. to prayer. Her parents desired that she marry, but when After Francis’ death, Clare continued to promote austere living Clare was 18, she heard St. Francis of Assisi preach for within her order and wrote their Rule of Life – the first monastic the first time. His preaching and inspiration would change rule known to have been written by a woman. Following her death Clare’s life, and the lives of many who come to follow her. in 1253, the order she founded was renamed in her honor as the Soon after their first encounter, Clare ran away from Order of St. Clare, commonly referred to today as the Poor Clares. home to follow Francis. He placed her in a Benedictine monastery near Bastia, where she took on the veil of the Prayer to Saint Clare nuns. Her parents, still wanting Clare to marry, attempted God of Mercy, you inspired St. Clare with the love of poverty. By the help to remove her from the monastery, but to no avail. Soon, of her prayers, may we follow Christ in poverty of spirit and come to the Clare’s sister Agnes joined her, and the two settled at joyful vision of your glory in the kingdom of heaven. We ask this through Our the church of San Damiano, which Francis had rebuilt. Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Other women joined them and the group, known as the Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Missionaries Lessons in Life from Blessed Mother of Charity Teresa of Calcutta Jesus called the children to “Give yourself fully to God. He himself and said, “Let the will use you to accomplish great children come to me and things on the condition that you do not prevent them; for the believe much more in His love kingdom of God belongs to than in your own weakness.” such as these.”(Luke 18:16) The Missionaries Courtesy of Alfredo’s Landscaping, of Charity, St. Croix St. John

Our Blessed Mother’s Timeless Wisdom Message from Medjugorje from the Saints June 25, 2012 “Dear children! With great hope in the heart, also today I call "Jesus suffers to carry out the will of the you to prayer. If you pray, little children, you are with me and you Father. And you, who also want to carry out are seeking the will of my Son and are living it. Be open and live the most holy Will of God, following the steps prayer and, at every moment, may it be for you the savor and joy of the Master, can you complain if you meet of your soul. I am with you and I intercede for all of you before suffering on your way?” my Son Jesus. Thank you for having responded to my call." – Saint Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer Courtesy of the Order of Malta | John and Claire Foster Courtesy of Dr. Stephen and Maribel Okiye

16 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com Continuum Care, Inc. Hospice of St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John We provide care to the terminally ill. Individualized Medical and Nursing Support, Spiritual, Emotional, Nutritional Counseling, and Personal Care. St. Croix St. Thomas/St. John 4040 La Grande Princesse, #2 50 Estate Thomas, Suite 211 Christiansted, VI 00820 St. Thomas, VI 00802 718-LOVE (5683) 714-CARE (2273) www.ccivi.com | fax 340-718-7632 Medicare Certified. Most Insurance Accepted. EEOC. Se Habla Español

Advertise your business in The Catholic Islander! Call (340) 774-3166 for rates. 17 Catholic spirituality Prayer works, that’s for sure!

n September 24, 2011, I had a near death Minanov performed the expert experience. If it had not been for Father John Mark, and extensive surgery that O who quickly called 911, I would have died before involved opening up my ribcage the ambulance arrived. and replacing the aortic valve in The ambulance took me to the Gov. Juan Luis Hospital my heart and splicing in sections on St. Croix. After receiving the Sacrament of the Sick and of a vein from my upper left leg peacefully being on a respirator and being fed intravenously into sections of three cardiac for around six hours, I was able to return to normal arteries. breathing. After several days at the hospital and many When I awoke from the prayers from me and others, I was taken to the new and surgery, I was in the Intensive beautiful Cardiac Center at the hospital and was given a Cardiac Care Unit of the hospital. test to determine the extent of my heart damage. It was During the time when I was determined that I needed my aortic heart valve replaced and asleep, I had a feeling of profound peace and I knew that my three cardiac arteries repaired. prayers and prayers of others were answered. Although the Cardiac Center at the hospital was well- During the subsequent months, I received excellent care at equipped and up-to-date, they could only do part of the the Holy Rosary Nursing Home in Sylvania, Ohio, and at the St. surgery. But without the repairs, I had less than a year to Francis de Sales High School Community House in Toledo. With live. With the help of prayers and good advice, I chose the surgery, I now can possibly live 20 or more years longer to be to have the operation at St. John Hospital in Detroit, able try to continue to do God’s will during my remaining time on Michigan. I am very grateful to Dr. Michael Potts, my local earth. cardiologist, for the excellent care provided me during my When Hurricane Hugo struck the island in 1989, I was staying five-day stay at Luis Hospital. with Father Elliott Thomas (who later became Bishop Thomas) After leaving Luis Hospital, I made arrangements to fly at St. Ann’s Rectory. I remember looking out from the remains of to Detroit on October 8, 2011, but, because of a series of the building on Monday morning after a night of winds up to 200 delays, I arrived late for my first appointment in Detroit. I mph and seeing the destruction of many of the parish buildings was able to set up an appointment in the following weeks and of the whole island. I remember saying, “Thank God for life!” and, in the meantime, stayed at the St. Francis de Sales Those words express well my sentiments at the outcome of my High School Community House in Toledo, Ohio. experience. I know for sure that prayer does work. On the cold morning of October 25, I woke at 3 a.m. to prepare for my operation at 5 a.m. Although the chances Brother James Petrait, O.S.F.S. is a religious brother member of the for the success of the operation were good, there also was Oblates of St. Francis de Sales and professed his first vows 55 years the possibility that it would be my final day. I was greatly ago. He is a science teacher at St. Joseph High School on St. Croix and helped by saying the prayers of the rosary and many has been there for 24 years. He also is the webmaster for the websites aspirations during this time. of the Diocese, the Catholic Islander, St. Joseph Parish, St. Joseph High While I was asleep and feeling no pain, Dr. Oktavijan School, St. Ann's Parish and others.

Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mystical Rose, you are the ever Virgin Mary and Mother of the true God; pray for us to your most holy Son. Amen.

Courtesy of Dr. Norma Carrillo and family

18 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com Advertise your business in The Catholic Islander! Call (340) 774-3166 for rates. 19 journey of faith Benjamin Parrilla Saying ‘Yes’ to God

n the weeks leading up to his joy and wisdom of a good choice. He knew that by entering the Permanent Diaconate, he would be stepping into another ordination, Benjamin Parrilla of unknown realm, one where God would ask him again to give of I St. Croix was going through the himself and serve others. typical emotions before a big event – Benjamin’s journey of faith started when he was 8 years old, excitement, nervousness, anticipation – at the death of his grandfather. At his grandmother’s house, he met a priest who said a rosary novena every night for nine when he was surprised by another feeling. nights. After that, young Benjamin knew he wanted prayer, and This one he felt in his stomach. the Church, to be a part of his life. As he grew older, he knew he had found his vocation with Miriam. “My marriage life was so “It definitely was scary. As a matter of fact, last year, when good – thank God for the blessings – that I thought maybe God we had our retreat in December, and the Bishop announced wants me to serve Him in another direction, in another angle.” I was going to be ordained in July, I had a stomach ache for The answer did not come easily. “People, for many years, a couple of days. And just a week before the ordination, I asked me to become a deacon,” Benjamin says. “I responded, had it again, for no apparent reason.” ‘No,’ with a joke in Spanish (deacon in Spanish is “deacono”). I The fear that Benjamin felt was not unusual. He likened would say, ‘Deaca? No!’” it to what he experienced before his wedding day, when “For years, people asked me the question over and over, and he felt the weight of the unknown and the seriousness I finally asked myself if God was speaking to me. Eventually, of what was about to happen. Fortunately for Benjamin, many friends like the Lay Missionaries of Charity, and even my he knew from life experience with his wife, Miriam, the wife told me, ‘You’re not listening to God.’ And I told my wife,

20 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com ‘The next time someone asks me Cross Church, Father John to be in the diaconate program, I Juszczak, C.Ss R., agreed to will respond openly.’ Well, it did enhance the preparation with not take even a month for someone further instruction. from our parish to ask me if I Through the trials and fears he would consider it. My response felt on the eve of his ordination, was ‘Yes.’ I was ready.” Benjamin prayed and sought Two years into his studies, his spiritual guidance. He spoke with parish, Holy Cross, received new priests and people devoted to the priests who needed help with the religious life. He realized that his Spanish community. They turned feelings were normal, and that to Benjamin, who was part of that being called to serve meant giving community, and asked if he would up a part of himself. be willing to be ordained early. “God wants us to be holy,” he “It was a soul-searching event,” says, “and we can only be holy if he shares, “and I felt that I was we give ourselves totally to him. not ready, but, at the same time, We have to be obedient, beyond I feel that nothing happens to us our comprehension…because we unless it is God’s will. We have to be disposed and available can’t do it on our own. It is only through him that we can do for whatever the Lord has in mind for us. Like what Mary whatever he asks us to do.” did when the angel appeared to her – I had to make myself Deacon Parrilla was ordained in what he called “a lifting available to the Lord, also.” experience… I felt like I was walking on thin air.” Today, he Msgr. Michael Kosak, vicar of the diaconate program, preaches at Holy Cross at the Spanish Mass and thanks Miriam approached Bishop Herbert Bevard and made the request. for encouraging him. “None of it would have been possible Although Benjamin would be ordained early, he would without my wife’s support. Without her, I would never be continue his classes with the group. The pastor of Holy where I am today.”

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Rosary Walk Legion of Mary Divine Mercy Chaplet Ss. Peter and Paul Cathedral hosts a • Presidium María, Arca de la Alianza, • Altar servers from Ss. Peter and Paul rosary walk on August 4 and the first holds meetings in Spanish at Ss. Peter Cathedral and Our Lady of Perpetual Saturday of every month at 7 a.m., and Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Help Church lead the Divine Mercy followed by Mass at 7:30 a.m. Lounge on Sundays at 2 p.m. chaplet at Ss. Peter and Paul Cathedral • Presidium Mary, Mystical Rose, meets on Mondays at 3 p.m. Magnificat in Holy Family Church’s classroom on • The chaplet is prayed at Our Lady of Magnificat, an international ministry to Sundays at 3 p.m. Perpetual Help Church on Tuesdays at Catholic women, meets at Ss. Peter and • Presidium Mary, Mediatrix of All 3 p.m. Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge Graces, meets in the St. Anne Chapel on August 4 and the first Saturday of hall on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Our Mother of Perpetual Help every month at 8 a.m. Devotions Charismatic Prayer Devotions to Our Mother of Perpetual Our Lady of Fatima Devotion • Prayers in Spanish are offered at Help are prayed before Mass on The Children of Mary lead a devotion Ss. Peter and Paul Cathedral’s Wednesdays at Ss. Peter and Paul to Our Lady of Fatima at Holy Family Hospitality Lounge on Mondays Cathedral at 6:45 a.m. and noon, Church on August 4 and the first at 6 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Saturday of every month at 4 p.m. • Holy Family Church holds evenings of Church at 6:15 p.m., at Holy Family charismatic prayer on Mondays at 7 p.m. Church at 6:50 p.m. and at St. Anne St. Joseph Workers Chapel at 7 p.m. The St. Joseph Workers meet at Holy Holy Hours/Eucharistic Family Church’s Columban Hall on Adoration Intercessory Prayer Group August 12 and the second Sunday of • St. Therese Chapel-Divine Mercy A team is prepared to pray for the needs every month at 9:30 a.m. Shrine has Exposition of the Blessed of all who ask at Holy Family Church Sacrament on Mondays to Fridays on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. St. Vincent de Paul Society from 8 a.m. until Benediction at 5:30 The Young Vincentians meet on August p.m. (Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.) and on World Apostolate of Fatima 19 and the third Sunday of every month Saturdays from 8 a.m. until Benediction The World Apostolate of Fatima meets at 11:30 a.m. The adult members meet at 1 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on August 25 and the fourth Saturday • Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church on Thursdays at 7:30 a.m. of every month at 3:30 p.m. Both has Exposition on Tuesdays from 7:30 groups meet in Holy Family Church’s a.m. until Benediction at 6 p.m. and on classroom. Fridays at 6 p.m., followed by Mass at 7 p.m. Catholic Daughters of America • Holy Family Church and Court 2049 meets at Ss. Peter and St. Anne Chapel have Holy Hours with Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge Exposition and Benediction on Fridays on August 18 and the third Saturday of at 6 p.m., followed by Mass at 7 p.m. every month at 3 p.m.

Knights of Columbus Council 6187 meets at Ss. Peter and Take your digital Paul Cathedral’s Hospitality Lounge This publication is camera to church! on the first and third Sunday of every month at 10 a.m. made available free of Email your charge to our parish photographs of Pro-Life Rosary Pray a pro-life rosary at Our Lady of community thanks parish Perpetual Help Church on Wednesdays to the generosity or school events to at 5:45 p.m. of our advertisers. thecatholicislander@ Men’s Prayer Group Please support their gmail.com. The Sons of Joseph and Mary meet at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church businesses. on Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.

22 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com Advertise your business in The Catholic Islander! Call (340) 774-3166 for rates. 23 parish calendars St. Croix Calendar Holy Hours/Eucharistic Divine Mercy Chaplet Our Mother of Adoration St. Joseph Church hosts Divine Mercy Perpetual Help Devotions • Holy Cross Church has Exposition of devotions on August 26 and the fourth Devotions to Our Mother of Perpetual the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. The Help are prayed at St. Patrick Church on on August 3 and the first Friday of every hour-long program includes the chaplet, Wednesdays at 6:30 a.m. and 8 a.m., at month from 9 a.m. to noon. prayers, adoration and teachings of the Holy Cross Church on Wednesdays and • St. Patrick Church has a Holy Hour Divine Mercy by Father John Mark. Saturdays at 8:45 a.m., and at St. Joseph with Exposition and Benediction on Church on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Fridays after the 8 a.m. Mass. Cursillo Prayer Group • St. Ann Church has a Holy Hour with The Cursillo Movement hosts a Spanish Intercessory Prayer Exposition and Benediction in St. Ann prayer meeting in the St. Michael Deacon Hyacinthe George is available for Chapel on Fridays at 5:30 p.m. Chapel at St. Joseph Church on August prayer and counseling at St. Ann Chapel • St. Joseph Church has a Holy Hour 27 and the last Monday of every month on Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. with Exposition and Benediction on at 7 p.m. until 11:30 a.m. Fridays at 6:30 p.m. Adult Education Bible Study Santo Niño • The Missionary Sisters of the Holy Cross Church hosts Bible studies in St. Joseph Church hosts devotions to Immaculate Heart of Mary (ICM Sisters) the parish’s McAlpin Hall on Wednesdays the Santo Niño (the Holy Child Jesus) on offer classes in Pre-GED, GED, Computer and Saturdays at 9 a.m., following August 4 and the first Saturday of every Literacy, Intermediate Computer and morning Mass. month at 4:30 p.m. The Sacrament of English as a Second Language at the Reconciliation is offered during this time. St. Patrick Learning Center on Monday Spiritual Direction through Thursday mornings. Sister Patricia Alexander, WIF, is available Charismatic Prayer • The Religious of the Good Shepherd for spiritual direction at Franciscan • St. Patrick Church has charismatic offer adult education classes in Spanish House on Wednesdays from 3 p.m. prayer in the chapel on August 17 and at the Good Shepherd Center from to 6 p.m. Call 340-778-5773 for an the third Friday of each month at 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. These courses appointment. • St. Ann Church has charismatic prayer include Spanish writing, English as a in Marian Hall on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Second Language and computer courses Shepherds of Christ Associates • The Cenacle of Our Lady of the Rosary in Windows, Word, Excel and Internet. The Shepherds of Christ Associates meet Intercessory Prayer Group meets at for prayer in the St. Michael Chapel Franciscan House on Wednesdays at Neo-Catechumenal Way of St. Joseph Church on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. The Neo-Catechumenal Way leads a 7:30 p.m. and on the second and fourth Celebration of the Word at St. Joseph Sunday of every month at 5 p.m. Magnificat Church on Mondays and Thursdays at Magnificat, an international ministry to 7 p.m. Knights of Columbus Catholic women, meets at Franciscan Holy Cross Council #6482 meets at Holy House on August 19 and the third Devotions to St. Gerard Majella Cross Church’s McAlpin Hall on the Sunday of each month at 3 p.m. Pray a devotion to St. Gerard Majella first and third Thursday of every month at Holy Cross Church on Tuesdays at at 6 p.m. Carmelite Spirituality 8:45 a.m. The Our Lady Star of the Sea Cursillo Ultreya Community shares Carmelite spirituality World Apostolate of Fatima Cursillo members meet for the “Ultreya” in the St. Joseph Church Hospitality The World Apostolate of Fatima meets in the Cursillo office atSt. Joseph Lounge and Learning Center on August in the chapel at Holy Cross Church on Church on Thursdays after the 7 p.m. 26 and the fourth Sunday of each month Tuesdays at 5 p.m. Mass. Meetings are in Spanish. at 1 p.m. Spanish Prayer and Reflection Rosary for the Unborn Franciscan Spirituality Pray the rosary and share reflections St. Joseph Church hosts a bilingual The Our Lady of the Angels fraternity on the readings of the coming Sunday English/Spanish rosary for the unborn on of the Third Order of St. Francis shares Mass at Holy Cross Church on alternate Fridays at 6 p.m. Franciscan spirituality at Franciscan Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Meetings are in House on August 26 and the fourth Spanish. Legion of Mary Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. Presidium Mary, Our Lady of Grace, meets in the Holy Cross Church rectory on Saturdays at 4:30 p.m.

24 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com Prayer for Protection Pride of the Parish from Hurricanes

Msgr. Michael Kosak, pastor of St. Ann Church, God, our Father, Creator of the Universe, You have set the St. Croix, welcomes two new friends, Jojo and Skyler, earth on its foundation and all the elements of nature obey to his parish family. Your command. We humbly beseech You to keep us safe from all dangers and calm the storms which may threaten us. May we be secure in Your loving protection and serve You always with grateful hearts. We ask this through Jesus Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen. Courtesy of Ed Foerstel and family

Buying, Selling, or Renting? Call the Experts! Providing efficient, friendly and professional service for over 18 years. Toll free: (800)773-8788 E-mail: [email protected] St. Croix Web-site: www.sunrealty.vi #2 Hospital Street, Christiansted Call today: (340)773-8790

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Legion of Mary Free Meals Eucharistic Adoration Charismatic Prayer Presidium Mary, Queen Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Our Lady of Mt. Carmel of Angels, meets in the Church’s Kallaloo Kitchen: Food Church has Exposition of Church hosts an hour Guadalupe Hall of Our Lady for the Soul feeds the needy in the Blessed Sacrament and of charismatic prayer on of Mt. Carmel Church on the parish’s Guadalupe Hall on Benediction on Thursdays from Thursdays at 7 p.m. Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. Mondays and Fridays at noon. 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Volunteers are welcome.

Protection of children

The Diocese of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands is committed to protecting children from all harm. If you have knowledge that any priest, deacon or church worker may have abused a minor, please contact the diocesan child protection coordinator, Callista Julien, at (340) 774-3166 or (340) 719-4020.

26 The Catholic Islander / August 2012 / www.catholicislander.com Advertise your business in The Catholic Islander! Call (340) 774-3166 for rates. 27 Advertise your business in The Catholic Islander! Call (340) 774-3166 for rates.