Catholic Women's Network 877 Spinosa Drive Non-Profit Org. Sunnyvale CA 94087 U.S. Postage (408) 245-8663 PAID Permit No. 553 FAX 408/738-2767 Sunnyvale C A Catholic Women's NETWORK Issue No. 46 A non-profit educational publication since 1988 May/June 1996 See nages IS and 16 for Registration Form Women Connecting: Mind/Bodv/Spirit Fourth annual day of spirituality & personal growth ** Sat June 22,1996 in San Jose $35 by May 24 • $45 after May 24 Art by Jeri Becker Ritual, 24 workshops, concerts healing arts coming on June 22 an£t Come, join in the gathering proces­ dance and voice events. Learn seated sion. Wave your personalized scarf, massage or energy alignment. Experi­ keep time with your inner heartbeat and ence reiki or reflexology. Haveadream move in rhythm to your own percussion analyzed or surf on the Net. piece as you move chanting into the At the end of the day, bring a sacred space ofthe opening ritual - a newfound energy to the closing ritual. place where women who do not wish to With music and chant, you can take part process have gathered. in the great weaving where many hun­ Celebrate and connect mind, body dreds of scarves will form one whole. rfl and spirit. Thread your story into a Receive your keepsake gift and memory woven fabric with other women. Name of women connecting-mind, body and your origins, invoke God as Wisdom, spirit, remembering the past, dwelling in and share your story as you prepare for the present and moving into the future. a day of spirituality and growth. A registration form can be found on You can chose two of 24 workshops pages 15 and 16. A four page form with Fear to attend on topics which help you con­ photos and more details is available by not! nect with Catholic devotions or creed or sending a self-addressed stamped enve­ your own family roots, healing arts or lope to CWN at 877 Spinosa Dr., Sunny­ spiritual writing, drum massage or states vale CA 94087. of mind, anger or loneliness. Reduced rates available for low in­ Take part in noontime participatory come.

O >:.^. ;vr,V:,:^'.--:^,^^-^^^^ V S^^^^MM : ^t^^^^^^^I^R^i}-•• i.• ^SMm^^^M^Mi k>: :x%? • Outside Network $£ ^M ' AuTemllof nilractes . 11 ssjwWiBife^' • %#; . K:o^^^^i^ylsM^:^ If :': 40^^0m talks on Right Wing ^ Everyday miracles '%&% ./;:[•• r.Mary0S Wmm^p^^0iS^' ;: "Fear not!" When angels appeared to persons in scripture, : : #2SJr *fo*& wito&".-' : ^-'*-*•.?•'•' |f^|P^ile^>l^^i-: es^li^i^rig^:.'-.- ::=:;;: :V:;"^'..*•• := • Am advance preview >*£'> they often greeted their surprised receivers with this phrase. ^Jtatt^^ •} '•:•:, ^'^?^^^^3^^g'^i%:::> % Perhaps, today we might translate that as "don't be sur­ ,:,:'A _a|r^^^|#^Se$i$(^Ki.. 'f"< $b W^'i^t^^^x^^ ;^ **i •:w-\ prised." Which, of course, is what anyone who is visited by an |!v'^^Mi^:i^^to#;.i^P lty8u&8errom , angel is. Surprised! Perhaps amazed, awed, and even breathless. Hihliiiliii. MM$^$^ ** : • Miracles for ordinary folk 'M^*\§*< •• Mifls follows up Beijing Angels, verified as authentic messengers from God by the : Ur \ : ;;f^^^^|^«fc- (*W£.. .*•.-. • Womensprutgcleau spirituality Catholic church back in the fourth century, numbered legions- : : n thousands and perhaps millions of mystical creatures, and they ^^|$^i9P^i^:iiM^ ' - ricf. •^^^Imkm 14 ^•^l^^:^g^^^i|tw^:r ||!* ; July 1MI retreat stand ready to usher humans over the rocky hurdles in life if only ~". .A«||fei-dt>|i^M-b||gyer;; it WomanPrayer we invite their help. The air around us is a virtual network of Angela a mysterious network it June.& Women Connecting IS»M winged beings eager to meddle in human lives. ; • Miracles: From our Readers li Regtsti^m Form & info Miracles are another matter. Rather than belief, they breed skepticism in all levels of church membership. Of all the thousands M3 **m ********* wor&to#i» and more fi^mi our auvettlsers. of claimed miracles at the Shrine of Lourdes, fewer than 100 have been authenticated or accepted as miraculous healings. £/ Jesus is claimed to have performed miracles but when we Join a pre-gathering! look closer at the words in scripture, we find that Jesus performed A special practice in May or June in San Jose will be held to help implement signs and wonders. There is no word for miracle in Hebrew. the opening and closing rituals at the When humans appeared to have the stigmata of Jesus or June 22 Women Connecting gathering. bilocated or levitated, they are viewed with suspicion and skepti­ If you would like to take part in the cism. practice of movement and song before Angels and miracles fitcomfortabl y into the category of the gathering , please call and leave your spiritual surprizes in life. In this issue, we explore some of the name and number at the CWN office. puzzles ofthe supernatural world. We will notify you when the date and site have been arranged. 30 or 40 women are desired. Page 2 Catholic Women's NETWORK, May/June 1996

Jn^ide NETWORK 0utside NETWORK

Snow was falling swiftly on die small Bishop excommunicates committee March 12 that proposals to cut farm where my retired father was living in If you live in Lincoln, Nebraska and are welfare benefits for unwed mothers are January 1979. On or about the feast of a member of Call to Action, Catholics for a "draconian" and would lead to more "frus­ Epiphany, my dad found some reason to Free Choice, Planned Parenthood, Rain- tration and despair and broken lives." leave die farmhouse where he lived alone Txiw Girls, or the Hemlock Society, you Covenant House is a shelter for runaway and go out in the worst Oregon snowstorm ments of my life —the photos of our seven face excommunication. There are 12 such and homeless young people, both in New ofthe decade. A few days later a neighbor children on one wall in my home office and groups, but the first three listed above are York and Los Angeles. She said the cuts found my dad's body lying frozen in the photos, symbols, andmemorabilia of Catho­ the main ones believed to be the major would impoverish mothers already in pov­ snow, a few feet from his house, with his lic Women's Network on the other. I type targets of Bishop Fabian Bruskewitz.The erty and increase the number resorting to hand reaching for bis nitroglycerin pills in probably 90 words a minute on my key­ bishop issued a March 19 warning of ex­ abortion. She said it would systematically his pocket board, shooting letters and words onto my communication to Catholic members of 12 cut the elements that make her programs About that same time, thousands of miles dark blue screen, paying no mind to spell­ organizations to "make clear the church's for unwed mothers successful such as job away in southeast Asia, my husband had an ing or punctuation. stance . . . and the relationship of the training, job Creation, daycare, and long term commitment. She said any cut that unusual experience. He heard my father I push and click my mouse, rearranging church" to groups the bishop deemed "per­ would encourage pregnant women to seek calling his name, "Earl, Earl, help me. and correcting, drawing graphics and box­ ilous to the Catholic faith." abortion is morally unacceptable. Help me." ing photos. A few minutes later I can print Call to Action, one targeted group has It took a week for the Red Cross to notify out complete pages of the next issue of three bishops as members and/or speakers my husband, on duty in Thailand during Network, No fuss, no dirty lead type, and at its annual meetings. Also listed were Sweatshop goods the Vietnam War, that my father had died. only one person is needed for pasteup, five affiliate groups ofthe Masons, a soci­ Seven major American department store It's one of those things we cant explain. layout and proofing. ety once banned by Rome, and two groups chains are being targeted for consumer- I'm not very perceptive or psychic and I My mystification continues when I start linked to the movement of the late Arch­ awareness campaigns bySweatshop Watch, can't recall having any unexplained expe­ to write my column with only the vaguest bishop Marcel Lefebvre (which observe a coalition of labor and immigrant rights riences of this type myself. idea in mind After 600 words, my com­ only the Latin rite). groups in California. The one thing that does mystify me is puter, stuffed with motherboards and Persons who have not dropped their Named are Sears, Nordstrom, Neiman- how I started this publication. Although I graphic boards and memory chips that my membership in these groups by May 15 Marcus, Target, Montgomery Wards, studied journalism in college and have husband sees fit to stuff inside, silently should consider themselves excommuni­ Macy/Bullock, and Robinson/May. All done free lance writing and public rela­ pushes out some fairly decent comments. cated, according to the diocesan paper. protested allegations that they indirectly tions, it never occurred to me to start a Rarely does any article take more than an Catholic scholars say Bishop Bruskewitz buy and sell garments like those found in a publication of my own to edit. I look back hour to compose. is the only bishop in modern times to federal raid last August in Los Angeles and know I initiated it, but it was not the 1 think there must be an angel inside, threaten such blanket excommunication. where 72 illegal Thai immigrants had been result of something I planned in advance. channeling through the tiny wires and Most are done privately. The bishop does enslaved for years. Sweatshop Watch said I am further mystified by how it contin­ mysterious delicate memory chips. not plan to issue formal decrees of excom­ both upscale and discount department stores ues to get published and grow. In college An angel picture hung near my bed all munication but says it will "rest on the have goods not made in compliance with it took us several days of sending copy for though my school years. She hovered over conscience of the person." The Lincoln labor laws. the school papier to the printer, proofread­ two children crossing a bridge. I watched diocese is one ofthe most conservative in ing, and going down to the printer for her a lot as I drifted off to sleep. the country. It does not allow altar girls. Vatican frowns on welfare several hours of final corrections on pages In grade school, I often sat on only half "This is the kind of action that embar­ Government welfare programs may ac­ set in lead type. of my seat. We had the style desks with rasses the bishops, "said Jesuit Fr. Thomas celerate the breakdown of families said a Now I sit at a computer, edged between seats that could hold two children. My Reese ofthe Woodstock Theological Cen­ group of experts on economic and social what I consider to be the main accomplish- angel had her half quite regularly. I prob­ ter in Washington. He said Bishop questions invited to a Vatican conference. ably talked more to ner than to my dolls. Bruskewitz's actions must be sending tre­ Many economic problems faced by modern I now suspect that my angel hides out mors through the bishops' conference. families "are aggravated by misguided gov­ £g£S NETWORK inside my computer — filling in words Reese said that episcopal courtesy will ernmental policies and by ideological as­ where insights are needed. She emits silent keep the bishops from disagreeing in pub­ saults on marriage and the family from Published in January, March, May, July, sounds with the classical radio music that lic, but the phone lines are probably busy to special interest groups such as gender femi­ September and November by die Catholic the president ofthe bishops' conference. nists," said the participants' final state­ Women's Network of Santa Clara County, plays in the background, sending 877 Spinosa Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, thoughtwaves into my daydreaming brain. Call to Action is called "intrinsically ment. It said welfare programs help weaken (408) 245-8663, FAX 408/738-2767. When we come up short on ads (we sell incoherent and fundamentallv divisive" parental responsibilities and choices. CWN is a non-profit educational organi­ enough to pay the printer each issue), she according to Bruskewitz, but Bishop The conference was sponsored by the zation. Catholic Women's Network is prompts someone, somewhere to send in Raymond Lucker of New Ulm, MN says he Pontifical Council for the Family and it copyrighted and may not be reproduced an ad (We have no ad salespersons.) is a member and the group is concerned focused on economics and the family. without permission from the publisher. And when we are short on copy, some with social justice in the church and society Among the speakers were Gary Becker of Views expressed or reported by writers or angel somewhere, better known as a reader, and the majority are respectufl, open and the University of Chicago and winner of lecturers are not necessarily the views of sends along a column that often turns out to concerned about authentic Catholic teach­ the publisher. 1992 Nobel Prize in economics and Michael be the most poignant one ofthe issue. ing. Condensed from San Jose Mercury Free distribution subcription : 10,000 Novak, American Enterprise Institute. Editor/Photographer: Arlene Goetze I've stopped wondering what it was that News. March 28 and NCR, April 5. Artists: JoAnne Arnold made my husband hear my father call out Women oppose capital punishment Board of Directors: Mary Elaine McEnery, when he was dying . . . and I've stopped A month later Thirty-four women religious, represent­ President;Arlene Goetze, Helen Hansen, wondering what will fill the next issue, A few weeks after the announcement ing 25 congregations from Missouri, Iowa, Sue Mallory, Nancy Ransil, Mary Anne what will I write about, or who will send in many laity and clergy in the Lincoln dio­ and Nebraska, signed statements demon­ Ravizza, Maleada Strange, SNJM, Theresa the next ad. cese have supported Bruskewitz's decision. strating their opposition to capital punish­ Torrence- Bui, Robin Worth i ngton, Suzanne There is something that keeps propel­ The bishop himself reported being sur­ Young. Ex-officio - Margaret Marcroft ment. The "Declaration of Life" stated that ling this publication, for however long its prised the flowers and telegrams he re­ should they die as a result of violent crime, life may be, and I recognize that it is not ceived indicating support from all over the ADVERTISING RATES; the perpetrator should not be subjected to country. In an interview, the bishop should $12 per column inch. Copy is due the primarily of my doing. the death penalty. The declaration was 5th ofthe month before publication Angels. Mysteries. Miracles. The he would avoid any confrontation with developed by the Cherish Life Circle ofthe For more information write 877 unexplained. God, by any name, works anyone. He hasn't excommunicated any­ Convent of Mercy in Brooklyn, NY. Spinosa Dr., Sunnyvale, CA 94087. signs and wonders in our world. one and would give communion to anyone, 408/245-8663, FAX 408/738-2767. assuming he/she had withdrawn from the Altar server protest organization and was receiving the Our Lady Queen of Peace church in eucharist in good faith. (NCR April 12) Arlington, VA, stopped using altar boys when the authorization of altar girls was Mail to Catholic Women's NETWORK, 877 Spinosa Dr., Sunnyvale CA 94087 1 I Nun, movie honored given by the Vatican but not allowed by ADVERTISING INFORMATION Sr. Helen Prejean, whose book Dead their local bishop. Arlington Bishop John NETWORK is published in January, March, May, Jury, September and I Man Walking, inspired the film of the R. Keating told the church to reinstate the November in the amount of 10,000 copies. Distribution is free in parishes, retreat centers, I same name, will be honored by the Univer­ altar boys, although the African/American public libraries and by subcription in the mail. I sity of Notre Dame with the 1996 Laetare parishioners voted to ban boys if girls were Advertising is available at the rate of $12 per column Inch (2.3 inches wide) Medal to be presented at the university not going to be allowed to serve as well. $10.50 per Inch discount for 3 or more ads per year. I commencement. The medal is awarded Samples sizes: 1 col x 2 in = $24 2 col x 2 in = $48 I The chancery advised the parish that when 2 col x 3 in = $72 2 col x 4 in = $96 I annually to a Catholic "whose genius has the bishop came to confirm, he could bring Copy Deadline: 10th ofthe month before publication date. I ennobled the arts and sciences, illustrated his own altar servers, go with none, or the Enclosed is check for $ for my ad: inches by columns the ideals of the church and enriched the parish could provide men servers. The Please ran each issue and bill me I heritage of humanity." It is commonly parish board could not decide, so the bishop Enclosed is business card or ad copy (we will typeset) I regarded as the most prestigious honor brought his own servers. What will happen Name Phone I given to American Catholics. to the pastor is not known. Address I Excerpted and reprinted with permission from City Zip I Nun denounces cutbacks the March and April issues of National Signed Title I Sr. Mary Rose McGready, president of Cahtolic Reporter, PO Box 419281, Kansas J Covenant House, told a congressional sub­ City, MO 64141. 1-800-333-7373 May/June 1996, Catholic Women's NETWORK Page 3 heal Talk Theologian researches Right Wing

"What is fundamentalism and how did The split between right and left-wing Catholics is probably Catholics get included in it?" asked Mary Jo Weaver, Professor of Religious Studies inexorable because liberals thrive in a climate of dissent at Indiana University at a lecture April 15 whereas conservatives cannot allow it to be part of any legiti­ at Santa Clara University. The title of the lecture was "What's mate expression of Catholicism. Wrong with Being Right," and was drawn Mm Wfe from her research and the co-editing of a war, emergence of the third world, new in prison ministry, homeless shelters or To the editor: book Being Right: Conservative Catho- technologies, civil rights activism and ur­ politics violate a religious vocation. licsin America(Indiana Univ. Press, 1995). ban riots, assassinations and scandals and * Glorified eccentricity: they have founded Thanks for the grant Fundamentalism is a term that has de­ women's rights, sex, drugs, and rock and four colleges which protest the direction On behalf of the women at Elmwood Jail, scribed a religious mentality in a variety of roll. The sense of disintegration separated taken by Catholic higher education since I want to offer my sincere thanks for the religions and movements ~ Iranian reli­ Catholics from one another. Catholics the 1960s. They are lay-founded and lay- $1,050 you allocated for educational pro­ gious leaders, middle eastern terrorists, were being labeled ~ liberal or conserva­ led experiments linked by a shared belief in grams here, the self-help booklets from and the Theravada Buddhists in Sri Lanka. tive, hierarchical or communitarian, post- absolute truth and the means to attain it. Abbey Press as well as other literature you Catholics now are easing into the category. conciliar or pre-Vatican II. They tend to glory in the fact they are small, send. "Although they represent quite differ­ Humanae Vitae in 1968 raised questions not successful by worldly standards, and do Counselors from the Giarrheto Institute ent religious and cultural contexts, they about the limits of papal authority and gave not prepare their students for lives in a for Sexual Abuse came on three separate share a bellicose vocation," said Mary Jo, Catholics grounds to criticize the process. troubled world. dates to educate the women on the issues of speaking to some 400 persons in the uni­ New theologies like liberation theology * Preserving the worst parts ofthe past: sexual abuse. A counselor for the Centre versity theater. "Fundamentalists have and difference of opinions on women's Some conservatives do home-schooling to for Living with Dying came nine separate some four traits in common* ordination, shared decision making, and protect their children from sex-education times and much healing occurred among * they fight back against the world in a preferential option for the poor have hard­ in the schools. They teach with the Balti­ the women as well as acceptance of the reactive way; ened into deep divisions. more Catechism, books, statues and prayer grief process. * they fight for the victory of a particular "I became a purposeful schizophrenic cards published before Vatican II. At a An average of 25 women attended each world view, usually where feminism and scrambling to negotiate the divisions," said home school convention in Bardstown, KY, ofthe three spiritual workshops conducted pluralism do not exist; Mary Jo, who taught in a seminary before most families were very large and incomes by Marilyn Wilson, BVM. She brought * they fight with a chosen repertoire of taking her post at a state university. were low. Some said they wanted their Mary, Elizabeth, and Magdalene to the sources, usually located in the past and "I traveled from one system to another children to leam "facts, not opinions." women through her dramatic presentation. selectively interpreted; trying to explain to anyone who would * A narrow intellectual world: For her The women enjoyed the meditation and * they fight under God or some other listen that mutual advantages were avail­ book, right-wing scholars and advocates follow-up art work and singing. One woman transcendent referent." able if we would make the effort to under­ came together. The scholars began with remarked, "Thanks for treating us like stand one another. Her first book, New skepticism and the non-scholars started Catholic Women, attempted to bring about with first principles; they had a futile time persons." / became a purposeful schizo­ When you first informed me of your understanding on how feminism and Ca­ trying to dialogue. Right wing Catholics desire to give this assistance to the women phrenic scrambling to negoti­ tholicism could work together. start with a belief in God and absolute truth, in Elmwood Jail and asked me for a list of ate the divisions. She believed it could happen until her assumption that God's will can be known the educational needs ofthe women, I felt research into right-wing Catholicism. from scripture and church teachings. Schol­ ars reject these assumptions because theii as a child asked to give my wish list to "The split between right and left-wing Some Catholics belong in the category profession demands they begin with skep­ Santa. As I watched the women at each Catholics is probably inexorable because because "they are belligerent defenders of ticism and proceed by way of critical in­ presentation, I felt as a mother watching liberals thrive in a climate of dissent the faith; they define the church in authori­ quiry to conclusion that may not be com-' her children receive just the perfect gift. whereas conservatives, who stress obedi­ tarian terms and see unconditional obedi­ patible with a particular faith perspective. Thanks again for your caring support of ence, cannot allow it to be part of any ence to the pope as a minimal requirement legitimate expression of Catholicism," said Ultimately, Mary Jo found that right- Detention Ministry for the Diocese of San for membership. ... they are on the right- Jose to help the women in Elmwood Jail. Mary Jo. "Conservatives take comfort in wing "avoids dialogue with outsiders in wing ofthe political bell curve; they believe knowing that they are right." order to protect itself from contamination. Marilu Eder, Director, Chaplain environmentalism, feminism, gay rights, Detention Ministry, Diocese of San Jose She finds these factors present with right- It prefers the safe world ofa shared outlook and multiculturalism threaten the will of wing Catholics: to the possibility of finding another point of God as expressed in American values." view compelling. It cannot afford to accept Prisoners are human * Dread of the future: they focus on Fundamental Catholics believe "there differences. These qualities make it impos­ Thank you for including prisoners as warnings of the apocalypse which they is no right or left Catholicism, there are no sible for right-wingCatholic s to make sig­ humans to be heard. The columns by believe is necessary for purgation and re­ conservatives or liberals, only Catholics in nificant contribution to a future that re­ inmates Vonda White and Jeri Becker are birth. They accept the Vatican council but good standing and wayward ones." The quires innovative solutions to enormous very good. They are part ofthe "core" of think it has been wickedly mis-interpreted. Catholics in good standing can also be pastoral and theological problems. our church here. The "core" remains year Everywhere they see disrespect for God, called right-wing Catholics. Being rightis lay people on the altar, communion in the "These challenges will have to be met by after year, while the others come and go, the title ofher new book which she edited come and go. hand, laxity around sexual issues. a new, ethnically complex generation who with Scott Appleby. never inhabited the world of American The "core" is a source of tremendous * Fear of feminism: they prefer women "I began the project hoping to foster a Catholicism circa 1920-60, who never had help to those short termers who are troubled defer to men, nuns in traditional garb and discussion that might lead to mutual un­ professions are praised; women religious the luxury or the burden of being right." by being here. They see that Vonda and derstanding," said Mary Jo, "I finished it Jeri who are "lifers" and who have been believing that no such dialogue is possible. here for years, not only don't wither and I agree with Robert Wuthnow: when lib­ die, but live very fully in faith, love, and eral and conservative members of religious Graduate Programs in freedom behind these fences. institutions learn more about one another, Vonda and Jeri truly are a daily inspira­ the distance between them widens." tion to many. Mary Jo described her own journey: p "jfj punseling Psychology Betty Broderick * in the 1950s she was a firm believer and Women's Correctional Institute smug Catholic, feeling that she was right SantZZTZZa Clara and Education Frontera, CA and she knew it. She belonged to a church University whose leaders did not make mistakes. Inclusive art * 1960s: armed with a chemistry degree If you are interested in graduate programs that lead to an M.A. degree, I am hoping your readers can direct me to she worked for a pharmaceutical company some sources of modem inclusive religious specialized credentials, or the MFCC license, please consider a graduate and her co-workers awakened her to the program at Santa. Clara University. art. I am particularly interested in a rendi­ fact that not all lived and believed in the tion ofthe Last Supper showing both men moral limits ofthe Catholic church. Programs are offered in the fallowing areas: and women participants. I am delighted * Vatican II came along with the Vietnam • Teacher Education that feminist theology has opened the doors • Special Education to inclusive language bibles and have been • Early Intervention Services hoping to see more modem artistic inter­ Sisters of the Holy Names • Educational Administration pretations of classic biblical scenes. • Counseling, Counseling Psychology, and Marriage, Family, and James Halbig Child Counseling (with emphasis in health psychology) 4169 Glenvtew Dr stiym Santa Maria, CA 93455 For further information and assistance in designing the graduate 805/934-1286 Gospel women for degree or credential program best for you, contact: Liberating Action Division of Counseling Psychology and Education We love letters. Write or comment on For info or visit, contact current concerns. 250 words or less. Send Sr. Molly Neville, SNJM Bannan Hall Classroom Building 213 to CWN, preferably typed. Share your 26900 Patrick Avenue Santa Clara University Hayward.CA 94544 Santa Clara, CA 95053 ideas. 510/785-9197 email [email protected] (408) 554-4355 Page 4 Catholic Women's NETWORK, May/Jane 1996 Women Today Biochemist heals with earth energy Healing is a process of realigning and re­ by Arlene Goetze uniting with God "From a spiritual perspective, when we get sick, we feel separated from creation," said Vivian Arrizon-Lopez. "Healing is a transmits energy. process of realigning and reuniting with This form of healing, much like therapy, God- takes more than one session. Healing Energy, specifically earth energy, is the occurs depending upon the level of aware­ prescription. It is not a medication found ness and willingness ofthe client to facili­ at the local pharmacy or in a doctor's little tate her own healing. black bag. We find it in ourselves and we "Medical science cannot solve all the have a choice on how we use it. problems," said Vivian, who finds that "I call myself a healer, but I am not the medical doctors are attending healing work­ one who does the healing," said Vivian, a shops and developing an interest in work­ biochemist with Bechman Corporation in ing with the whole person. Palo Alto, CA. "Healers are like coaches "We are so good at masking symptoms," who assist someone who is sick. Many she said. "But behind every illness is a people who come with a physical affliction spiritual, mental and emotional sense of actually have a spiritual or emotional prob­ separation." lem. When we restore energy, healing can Vivian believes that a miracle exists take place but it is not something I control. / call myself a healer, but lam not the one when we are aligned with God and that It is in the hands of God." Vivian Arrizon-Lopez angels are energy vibrations. They take the Pain is energy that is stuck. When who does the healing. form of archtypes which come out of our Vivian experienced a fall in 1989, she unconscious. injured her neck and shoulder. She suf­ ing the healing art of Reiki. Vivian. "You can use it for various pur­ Vivian believes her ministry of healing fered much pain and underwent surgery will be developed by a plan of God and not only to suffer complications. "When I experienced Reiki for the first poses." Earth energy, chakras, auras. These are one of her own. "In the midst of my frustration with time, I fell in love with the energy," said not words common to the spiritual conver­ "The definition of healer is that you are a western medicine, I began to search for a Vivian. She studied Reiki for a year and sation and upbringing of traditional Catho­ facilitator," said Vivian. "When we are solution to my problem," said Vivian. She became a Reiki Master. lics like Vivian. They do belong in the taking care ofthe sick, administering to the read Hands of Light by Barbara Brennan One healing art led to another and she vocabulary of hands-on healers. poor, helping others, we takeon the role of and Wheels of Light by Rosalyn Bruyere continued on a journey of developing her gift of intuitive heater. She started learn­ In addition to her full time job and Christ. and became fascinated with thei r scientific "Jesus was the great healer and I hope and spiritual approach to healing. ing about body symbology with her studies tending the relationship with her husband with Rosalyn Bruyere, founder ofthe Heal­ and teenage son, Vivian offers hands-on- we are all trying to do what Jesus did. God As a chemist, she wanted to bridge the ing Light Center Church in Santa Cruz. healing sessions to individuals on week­ put us on this planet earth to create and do gap between her own deeply spiritual feel­ ends and evenings. miracles, to be examples to others," said ings and scientific knowledge. Vivian studied with Rosalyn and gradu­ ated from the Natural Bridges Healing After a short interview, Vivian invites Vivian. "Even as a child I felt that I had a direct program in Santa Cruz. her clients to lay fully clothed on a table. "Jesus did not give us a lesser job than connection with God," said Vivian. "I "I have a sense of knowingness which I that which he took on himself." always had a sense of awareness of God "Body symbology is a method of healing use to sense the aura about the person," said and the angelic realm." that utilizes the innate wisdom ofthe body Vivian. She holds her hands in the air to Vivian Arrizon-Lopez will be lead­ Vivian was bom in Cuba and moved to unlock the origin of disease," said Vivian. sense the aura which has different levels ing a morning workshop and noon­ with her mother and older sister to Spain "The body is literally the temple ofthe soul relative to each ofthe seven chakras. when she was 14. Two years later they and much like a computer, it reflects and time demonstration at the CWN From sensing the aura, the electromag­ came to California. Her father, who was a stores information." June 22 women's gathering. netic field around each person, Vivian can political prisoner in Cuba at that time and Once information is stored in the body, it She offers healing sessions tell how a person uses energy. Through the later killed, wanted them to live in a demo­ contributes to the energy matrix or electro­ Wednesday evenings and Saturday laying-on of hands, she helps to release cratic country. magnetic field ofthe person. The flow of blocked energy. It is somewhat like access­ afternoons attheS.A.F.E. Place in Vivian graduated from Los Altos High energy can be constricted or blocked, bring­ San Jose. To contact her call 408/ ing about some form of illness. It is the role ing stored information in the computer in School and started studies in science at order to use it. She then channels and 535-0444. Foothill College. She received a bachelor of die healer to unblock the energy. degree in biochemistry from die University "In Reiki, energy flows where it is of California at Davis and began a career at needed," said Vivian. It comes through the Bechman. crown chakra. Earth energy is drawn from When her physical pain fromhe r tall in the core of the earth, and we pull it in YOVL are invited to tne 1989 couldn't be solved by traditional medi­ through the chakras in the feet." cine, Vivian began meditating and leam- "Energy is really like currency," said NEW Mercy Center Bookstore Tne Bookstore carries books, tapes, cd's, & cards. Topics include: prayer, Scripture, recovery, God's love, relationships, theology, aging, grief, ana care-giving ana other selected subjects or interest to Women! Mercy Center Ve -welcome you daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Summer Retreats Mercy Center (415)340-7474 2300 Adeline Dr., Burlingame, CA 94010 Women's Retreat: Attuning to the Sacred An opportunity to uncover the incredible gift of God's presence through prayer, Scripture, ritual, song and storytelling. We will deepen our ability to be open to God. Evangelical & Ecumenical June 3-9,1996 Register by: Hay 28,1996 Women's Caucus Suzanne Toolan, RSM and Marguerite Buchanan, RSM Biennial Conference Men's Retreat: Do yon want to be made whole? A retreat for men seeking depth in their relationships, work, and life. Join others in August 1-4,1996 exploring the Gospel invitation: "Do you want to be made whole? June 6-9,1996 Thursday 6pm to Sunday Ipm Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA Jim Neafsey, D.Hin_ Daniel O'Connor and Carl Ditmore Meditation Intensive Retreat An excellent opportunity to enter deeply into meditation, and to experience the power Walking on Water and Making Waves and peace of sitting together in silent prayer. June 21-28,1996 Register by: June 10,1996 Thomas Hand. S.J. Featuring: Edwina Gateley, author, minister to women prostitutes Marchiene Vroon Rienstra, minister, author of Swallows Nest Transpersonal Meditation Intensive Retreat Virginia Ramoy Mollenkott, professor, author Sensuous Spirituality Join others for intensive sitting and walking meditation, processes and rituals. Mary Jo Cartledge-Hayes, minister, author To Love Delilah Private consultation will be available during the retreat Helen Claire Ferguson (as Sojourner Truth) August 4-13,1996 Register by: Jury 24,1996 Julie Howard, composer, liturgist, Marguerite Buchanan, RSM and Thomas Hand S.J. Concert by feminist singer/songwriter Kristin Lems plus other musical performances, workshops, CEU credit courses, etc.

Call and Register Today! (415) 340-7474 Write or call: EEWC '96 Conference, 1053 Cambridge Crescent, Mercy Center _300 Adeline Drive, Burlingame, CA 94010 Norfolk, VA 23508 • (804)451-8553 May/June 1996, Catholic Women's NETWORK Page 5 Women in History Women in Scripture The miraculous story tells how the apostle Peter A miracle of selflessness was summoned to Tabitha 's town ofLydda after she died, and he raised her back to life.

by Marie Eloise Rosenblatt, RSM, PhD known to Greek-speakers as Dorcas. This Eyes had to be kept focused and atten­ could indicate she had a wide circle of tive. After weaving the cloth, sections of it When I asked a woman friend what friends, since she was not limited to one were cut and sewn by hand into various ofher life's span. would be a miracle women would under­ linguistic group. There were many needy articles of clothing. Peter summoned her, 'Tabitha, get up!" stand, she said immediately, "Just being people she probably said Yes to. To be busy about these tasks was ex­ And so, as simply as though she had been able to say No." The fact that she died is preceded by the pected of housewives who clothed their taking a rest from all her work, she awoke We all know that welling-up feeling of notice, "She was devoted to good works family members. After the death of her and rejoined her women friends. generosity and limitless patience when we and acts of charity." Did her tireless gen­ husband, Tabitha had continued this ardu­ Tabitha is the patron saint for all women respond to children, students, elderly rela­ erosity toward those in need wear her out so ous labor on behalf of the poor, those who who can't say No, who fall exhausted from tives, or neighbors whose needs lay claim that, in effect, she died from working so could not weave for themselves. The needy selfless acts ofgenerosity . She is the patron to us. hard for others? who benefitted from her included her of women who find in the loyal love of We also hear ourselves saying to our When Peter was summoned to the house women friends. friends, a powerful word that revives than. friends and family members whose self- where Tabitha had died, Luke records a These widows treasured the clothes It is not said in this story whether Tabitha, sacrificing spirit exhausts them, "You ought poignant scene. "All the widows stood Tabitha had made for them. Their grati­ after she was raised from the dead, cut back to take some time for yourself. You need to beside him, weeping and showing tunics tude, love, and tears were a witness to Peter a little on the hours of weaving she was take care of yourself, as well as trying to and other clothing that Dorcas had made that Tabitha's life was too precious to let go doing to clothe the needy. take care of everyone else." while she was with them." of. I don't think women ever solve this ten­ Tabitha was a weaver of cloth and a The miracle of her tireless generosity sion between caring for others and taking Marie-Eloise Rosenblatt, RSM, PhD., teaches seamstress. Weaving was demanding was still alive, and each thread in a cloth a at Santa Clara University. Her recent book is care of themselves. Even saying "No" can physical work. Skilled labor, it involved testament to her skill, energy, and dedica­ exact its payment in feelings of guilt and Paul the Accused: His Portrait in Acts. Lttur- the sorting, washing, and carding of wool tion. It was not yet time to cut the threads gical Press, 1995. regret. from goats and sheep. Flax stalks were Perhaps the most authentic and miracu­ split and fibers were extracted, washed, lous No for women is one which can be dried, and sorted. uttered compassionately freely, and with­ The spinning of thread, a well-honed Ihe Spiritual Exercises Ingeborg M. Hayes-van Zanten out guilt. skill different for wool than for flax, in- Alternative Healing We may find the record ofa woman who volved a two-handed exercise using spindle •f Shamanic Counseling never said No in Acts of the Apostles, and distaff. This was not work for someone St. Ignatius Spiritual Direction chapter nine. The miraculous story tells with arthritis or back-trouble. Mercy Center invites you to incor­ how the apostle Peter was summoned to Weaving required long hours of disci­ porate into your busy life this 30-week Soul Retrieval Tabitha's town ofLydda after she died, and plined eye-hand coordination at a loom, retreat Join us for weekly prayer & Personal he raised her back to life. either kneeling or squatting, with constant spiritual direction. Empowerment We shall never know what illness brought strain on back and shoulder muscles. Palm BtQius September 15, 1996 Sacred Gatherings about the death of this generous widow. muscles and fingers were always taut, tight­ with drumming She was probably bi-lingual and was also ening the threads as they were laid. Weekly sessions Mondays 7:00pm to and dancing 9:30pm or Tuesdays 10am to 12:30pm. Balancing Masculine & Feminine Call today! (415) 340-7474 Coincidence is God's way of performing a miracle 2300 Adeline Dr., In person or by telephone anonymously. Anonymous Burlingame, CA 94010 Single sessions or ongoing work 713 /471-8407

Marianist Three great Vacation Retreats Center A Place of Discovery July 21-July 26

?*_ Every Cell will Shout with Joy! July 28 - August 2 for men and women Drop the Pebble. Observe the Five days filled with peace, opportunities Ripples (Your chance to Fly!) for growth and healing, delicious vegetar­ for men and women ian cuisine, daily exercise, special guest speakers and all in a beautiful setting. Five glorious days to explore deep July 15-July 19 healing through the gardens, medita­ Tai Chi Chih and Chi Gong tion, energy awareness, gentle move­ Walking a Green Path of Wholeness Reiki • Massage ment Delicious healthy, vegetarian a woman's vacation retreat Dream Analysis • Hand Analysis meals in a gracious setting. Alternative Healing Practices Four glorious days of celebrating life. Meditataion • Spiritual Direction Spiritual Direction • Hand Analysis Explore deep healing through the gardens, Tai Chi Chih and Chi Gong Craniosacral Technique • Reiki meditation, energy awareness, gentle $400 ($350 for previous Elderhostel guests} movement, delicious healthy vegetarian Meditation and Ritual • Massage meals in a peaceful setting. Alternative Healing Practices Creators and Teachers: Mimi Latno, Joan $400 ($350 for previous Elderhostel guests) Tai Chi Chih • Reiki • Massage McMillen, Donna Shaffer Storytelling • Music & Song Spiritual Directors: Katie Montgomery, MFCC, Labyrinth • A Map of Wholeness Dan Montgomery, Ph.D. • 15 minutes from San Jose and Apprenticeship in the Gardens Practitioners: massage, Salvador Cefalu; hand 45 minutes from San Francisco airport Hand Analysis • Dream Analysis analysis, John Blum; reiki, Donna Shaffer and • Less than an hour to California beaches Craniosacral Technique Mimi Latno; craniosacral treatment, Dr. Kily Tracy Guest speakers: vary with each session's program $350 ($300 for previous Elderhostel guests) Limit 12 guests For all programs, please call for reservations at 408/253-6279 Fees include a private room with garden 22622 Marianist Way, Cupertino, CA 95014 patio, all meals, and use of pool and Jacuzzi. Personal treatments of reiki, analysis, etc. Facilities are available during the week for individuals and outside groups are available for $35 each. for meetings, workshops, or private retreats Page 6 Catholic Women's NETWORK, May/June 1996 Feature Miracles are rare. Most of us have never seen one. We may have had seemingly miraculous things happen, but are they re­ ^^Wnimary folk ally miracles?

Few scientists have dared to try to naturalize the supernatural. Those who are never the same on any two persons. At least 312 appearances were noted before the do are often ridiculed or ostracized by their peers. Science has pushed the study 20th century. of miracles into the arms of religion, notes D. Scott Rogo in his book Miracles, A St Veronica Giuliani (1660-1727) was abbess in a convent in Umbria, Italy. Parascientific Inquiry into Wondrous Phenomena. Following are his findings. She was levelheaded and efficient and her stigmata were well observed. She received the stigmata at age 27 and three years later they disappeared but the wound in her side Let's start with some definitions: persisted. The bleeding could be controlled by her confessor and religious superiors and A miracle is an interference with nature by supernatural power. C.S. Lewis would open and close at their commands. She had a deep bruise on her shoulder where A miracle is an extraordinary event taken to manifest the supernatural power Jesus carried his cross. She also felt the shapes ofa cross, crown, nails and sword internally of God fulfilling his purposes, Webster on her heart. An autopsy after her death revealed they were stamped directly on her heart. Paranormal is the supposed existence of things beyond the range of normal Teresa of Avila reported how an angel appeared to her and thrust a sword in her experience and nature, ef. flying saucers, Bigfoot, ghosts, etc. D. Scott Rogo heart. After her death, a deep fissure was found in her heart. The best known woman is probably Therese Neumann (1898-1962), a peasant who lived in a Bavarian village near Prospero Lambertini (later Pope Benedict XIV) wrote a treatise on miracles, De the Czech border. During her early years she suffered many health problems resulting in canonizatione in 1730. He felt it was necessary to separate the paranormal from the blindness, injuries, and convulsions so strong they threw her out of bed. miraculous in order to determine whether an event was actually attributable to God. She was bedridden for several years but on the day her patroness Therese of Lambertini rejected phenomena like clairvoyance as well as most healings. His definition Lisieux was beatified, her blindness was cured spontaneously. Her decayed left foot was did allow the inclusion of some non-traditional healings such as the stigmata, levitation, next to heal, and soon she was well enough to leave her bed. She received her stigmata unexplained images, and appearances of Mary. during Lent at age 28 in the form of the five wounds which hurt her constantly. Later eight wounds opened on her forehead representing the crown of thorns. Miracles include Soon the wounds in her hands had open holes completely through them. Her shoulder bled * Talents such as levitation, luminosity, bilocation, inedia, exorcism, odor of sanctity, and and lumps like nail heads appeared in the wounds in her hands. On Fridays she entered stigmata; a deep trance and blood flowed copiously from her wounds. * Events such as bleeding statues, weeping madonnas, and divine images; Therese had other powers — bilocution, clairvoyance, and healing powers. She * Pictures such as die Shroud of Turin and image of Guadalupe; also had a vision in 1927 in which she was told she no longer needed to eat (inedia). * Powers such as speaking in tongues, prophecy, taking up serpents, faith healing, and Thereafter, she neither ate nor drank. The blood from her wounds defied gravity. While fire immunity* lying down, the blood flowed upwards toward the toes as it did in the crucifixion. Explanation: Examination of this case indicates Therese's stigmata were both hysterical Miraculous Talents and supernatural. Her case is impossible to evaluate today. Most cases of stigmata were These are powers or abilities often held by Christian and Eastern tradition mystics. with victims who were both contemplative and prone to hysteria but who possess great * Levitation teth e suspension ofthe human body in midair. psychic powers. After a person intensely identifies with the crucified Christ figure, the Teresa of Avila preserved her description ofher levitation in her writings. Once sufferer literally directs psychokinesis onto her own body. This forces lesions to open in while approaching the altar in the convent chapel, she was suddenly lifted from the ground the flesh and the blood to flow counter to gravity and to exude wondrous perfumes. It also in full view of several nuns. She was so disconcerted by the incident that she forbade any explains why many suffered from anorexia nervosa. The stigmata still remains a mystery. of die witnesses to speak about it. On smother occasion she felt a levitation coming on during a church service and so threw herself on the floor. She floated up from the ground * Bilocation is a supernatural gift to be in two places at the same time. St Anthony of nonetheless. Several nuns surrounded her so the levitation was not seen publicly. She was Padua, Martin de Porres, Franciscan abbess Suor Maria Coronel de Agreda, one of few who ever wrote about her feelings during levitation. stigmatic Padre Pio, and English ascetic Teresa Higginson all experienced bilocations. The most unbelievable yet best substantiated claims of levitation were those of The phenomenon is also known in Hindu, Buddhist and Tantric literature where swamis Joseph of Copertino (1603-63). He experienced so many spectacular levitations over and yogis practiced bilocation feats. many years he was known as the "flying friar". Sometimes he was lifted only a few feet This has occurred in non-religious contexts as well. People^have disappeared in the air, others he was seen to glide through the air several feet above the ground. from homes or sidewalks only to reappear miles away with no memory of how they got Sister Marie Baourdie, a Syrian nun who lived in Bethlehem in the 19th century there. Babies and toddlers have been documented to bilocate. Conventional science has often levitated into trees, while Anne Catherine Emmerich (1774-1824), a German no explanation for human duplication. It goes beyond the paranormal to the supernatural. stigmatic and visionary found herself on windows, statues, and higher parts ofthe church when she worked as a vestry nun. Miraculous Events Possible explanations: Levitation was common in Eastern traditions, and Yogic These occur when supernatural intelligence interferes with the normal course of traditions speak of practices that are said to help induce levitation and there is some nature. evidence they may work. Some scientists have explored ideas of weightlessness or psychic On May 18, 1975 in Holman, New Mexico, two teenage boys were near fields created around the body as possible explanations. Immaculate Heart of Mary church when they saw a shadow appear on the wall of the building. The shadow was a figure of Christ's head and shoulders. Since then hundreds * The Stigmata of people have gone to Holman to see the miraculous likeness of Christ. This is a uniquely Christian phenomenon in which the wounds of Christ Even since the third century, images of religious figures have suddenly appeared experienced during the crucifixion are miraculously impressed on certain people. They on walls, windows, or altar cloths. Such divine images originated with the image which appears on Veronica's veil when she wiped Jesus' face while he carried his cross. This legend became popular even though it is not in scripture. Wholly Mother Church by JoAnne Arnold

Jesus was a healer. Most scriptural wonders of texts agree on this. In Acts of the Apostles (2:22) Jesus is referred to as a "man whom God sent to you with miracles, wonders and signs as Jesus his credentials."

Is the New Testament story of Jesus walking on water a miracle? Meaning of miracle stitious (as some today may be) but a way of The point of the story about walking on water is not that Jesus walked on In his book, Jesus, A Gospel Portrait, acknowledging the helplessness of human­ the water but that Peter did. Literalists may argue for sandbars or massive lily Donald Senior, C.P., writes about the ity in the face of evil that renders people pads or the sudden appearance of a whale but such arguments miss the point If miracles of Jesus. powerless. In doing exorcisms, Jesus was we forget our own shortcomings and keep our eyes on Jesus who sustains us, we Contemporary people, particularly those viewed by some as having the power of can do what we think is impossible. Peter may not have literally walked on water influenced by a rational scientific view­ Satan "He is possessed by Beelzebub - he but the coward who denied Jesus three times Good Friday morning went on to be point, might define miracle as some phe­ expels demons with the help ofthe prince crucified upside down for refusing to do so again. That is the real miracle. nomenon that ruptures the explanatory link ofdemons'.'Mk3:22). The People's Catechism, Lucker, Brennan & Leach, Crossroad, 1995. between cause and effect. It is an excep­ Exorcisms were sign of Jesus' unique tion, a violation of the "laws of nature" authority and are central to his ministry of Miracles were not part ofthe Hebrew language at the time ofthe Old where something occurs whose cause is the kingdom. Testament. Hebrew does not have a word for nature or for miracle. It had three words outside the world of physical reality. * Nature miracles reveal God's power which designated the miraculous: ot - a sign; mopet- a wonder or portent; and pala - Since most of us have never witnessed over forces of creation, e.g. stilling the that which surpasses the ordinary. None have the specialized sense of miracle. a miracle or at least the type attributed to storm on Galilee, walking on the water, The New Testament, although it was written after the birth of the Greek Jesus in the NT, we may be skeptical. and bringing people back from the dead. philosophical and scientific speculation, shows little or no conception of nature as a The biblical mind was unlikely to define Not all are a crisis situation. To pay the systematic unity governed by fixed principles and laws of causality. The NT wonders a miracle the way we do in the 20th century. temple tax, Jesus had Peter retrieve a shekel worked by Jesus and the apostles are called dynameis, "powers" or works of power or A believer in the first century understood coin fromth e mouth of a fish (Mt 17:24). simeon —which does not mean miracle but a manifestation ofthe intervention of God. miracle as a manifestation of God's control In looking at the nature miracles, we Almost any NT miracle must be submitted to historical and literary criticism. over the world, not an exception in the should be aware that the ability to control Many ofthe stories in Acts ofthe Apostles have more symbolism than history. order of things but a vivid insight into the nature by calming winds or walking on From Dictionary ofthe Bible, John McKenzie, SJ, MacMillan Publishing NY,wa 1965.y thing s actually were. water is an attribute of God in the Old God controlled creation, shaped human Testament. Psalm 65 talks ofthe power of destiny, and ruled the awesome force of God who "stills the roaring ofthe seas..." nature. If God chose to manifest control In Job 9:8 God "treads upon the crest ofthe over life in a visible way, it was not a sea." Elisha fed a hundred men with 20 IrliyilCleS, continued from page 6 violation of any law but a wonderful sign of barley loaves with much left over in 2 Kgs Strict regulations govern the power that normally affected humans in 4:42. We should also note that Jesus' * Other images, some divine and some of subtle, ordinary ways. A miracle provoked gestures in the multiplication story echo human beings, occur with frequency. Im­ investigation ofa miracle and awe and reverence, even fear, but not fun­ the ritual ofthe eucharist (Mk 6:41). ages appears on walls, fabric, crosses, food, few seem to pass the test damental surprise. This does not mean to explain away the and even in private homes on fireplace If first century believers were convinced nature miracles but it suggests caution in hearths. For more than three years a face of iris on the Polaroid camera used to take the of the reality of miracles — and miracle asserting all gospel miracle stories should a woman appeared on the hearth of Maria photos. working was found in Greek and Middle be read as literal descriptions of events as Pereira in Belmez in 1971. The hearth was Lourdes is perhaps the most famous Eastern religions as well as in Judaism— they happened. The passing of the stories covered with cement but the face persisted. site for miraculous healings. Millions visit they were also convinced of their need. through the experience ofthe church may Many things were done to eliminate the the shrine annually to bathe in the waters. The blind, disabled, lepers and the psy­ have affected the final outcome. The art of face but then three faces showed up. Later Since its founding in 1884, the Lourdes chotic were feared and pushed aside in storytelling probably embellished the re­ townsfolk dug up the hearth and found Medical Bureau has been investigating the society. Sickness, mental illness, and death corded stories. bones buried there. It was later learned the claims of miraculous cures. As of 1984 Joe were all considered the same as evil, and all A reluctant miracle worker house was built over a cemetery. Nickell reports that only 64, out of some were believed to be caused by personal sin. Gospel tradition, however, leaves little Some events have been examined by 6,000 or more were authenticated as mi­ The innocent suffered along with the guilty. doubt that Jesus was a man of extraordi­ experts and found to be caused by natural raculous. A miracle was seen as a visible manifes­ nary power that could liberate and heal, a means. Many remain unexplained. Explanations tation of God's power over evil and as a sign power that could only come from God. Many skeptics investigate and try to that God would rule triumphantly over it. Jesus was no Captain Marvel dispens­ * Belief in miracles often produces them. explain the many unexplained events. They Many events viewed as miracles in the first ing divine cures. He did not actively seek It has been discovered that the human mind find that group energy can be a factor and century would not be viewed as such today. out the sick and suffering. It was they who is strong enough to bend light beams as that certain events run in cycles. After one done by Suzanne Padfield, a British psy­ person received the stigmata, others also Some miracles in the gospels may have been inflated or chic. Some researchers find that the differ­ received it. After one appearance of Mary, ence between a psychic event and miracu­ others are sure to follow. added as the gospel developed but there remains solid tradi­ lous one may be more a matter of degree Apparitions are claimed to occur as a tion that insists Jesus performed extraordinary signs of than of nature. If the mind is capable of result of power over evil producing images on physical matter, then 1) psychic projections which may emerge perhaps a group of emotionally charged from a collective unconscious in times of people could manipulate rays of sun as in spiritual crisis Miracles and the Kingdom of God came after him, and often times he seemed the Great Cross Flap of 1971 in Georgia 2) actual visitations fromfigure s for the The motivation behind Jesus' healing reluctant to minister to them. He often told where many churches installing windows purpose of instruction. ministry and the miracles was his message those he cured that it was their faith which from Brunswick Glass Co. witnessedcrosses Important Marian apparitions have all of love and mercy. He was not content just saved them. He also said, "Blessed are in the glass. occurred in traditionally Roman Catholic to proclaim the kingdom of God, but his those who have not seen yet believe." (John countries and at a time when Mary's role in words led him to relieve the burdens ofthe 20:29). Lack of faith stood in the way of * Apparitions and Miraculous Healings the church was being reevaluated or when less fortunate. Compassion made Jesus Jesus' miracles as is seen when he "could LaSallette, Lourdes, and Pontmain, a group was preoccupied with her cult. reach out to touch and cure the leper. His not" work miracles in his own hometown of France. Guadalupe, Mexico. Medjugorje, Strict regulations govern the investiga­ sense of justice made him defend the dig­ Nazareth where the people's lack of faith Yugoslavia. Garabandal, Spain. Fatima, tion ofa miracle and few seem to pass the nity ofthe woman bent over when she was distressed him. Portugal. Zeitoun, Egypt County Mayo, test. assailed by the manager ofthe synagogue. The presence of faith showed that a Ireland. Lubbock, Texas (1988). Conyers, Joe Nickell in his book Looking for a More than acts of kindness, however, miracle had begun, the miracle of trans­ Georgia (1990). Denver, Colorado (1991).Miracl e is very skeptical and concludes Jesus' miracles are acts of power, acts that formed life—of healed alienation and of All are sites of unexplained appearances that all supposed miracles have natural show God demonstrating power by work­ compassion refound. The miracle stories of Mary or Jesus or other religious figures. explanations. D. Scott Rogo presents a ing through Jesus. tell us Jesus was a man of absolute integrity Often they involve mysterious activities of more open objective presentation of mate­ * Exorcisms liberated a victim froma n evil since his miracles never stepped outside the sun. None have been accepted as rial and concludes mat the psychic powers spirit. In the first century, sickness was the bounds of his mission. doctrine ofthe Catholic Church, and many which allow for all the unexplained hap­ linked with evil and sin which set people He was a human being so close to God undergo ongoing investigation to uncover penings might well be a description of God. apart fromGod . Sin was not attributed to that God's power flowed through him in their secrets. Satan but was accepted as a fact of life, a healing waves. At Conyers and Lubbock onlookers Most of this material has been taken part that seeped into every aspect of life and Condensed from Jesus: A Gospel Por­ photographed the sun. Their pictures re­ from Miracles, A Parascientific Inquiry stifled human dignity and freedom, leav­ trait, Donald Senior, Paulist Press, New vealed the sun through a doorway dubbed into Wondrous Phenomena, D.Scott Rogo, ing people seemingly defenseless before its York 1992. Donald Senior, C. is president by believers as the "gateway to heaven." Dial Press, NY, 1982. He is the author of aggressive power. of Catholic Theological Union, Chicago The doorway was actually created by the some 20 books on psychic phenomena. These biblical exorcisms are not super- and author of many books. Page 8 Catholic Women's NETWORK, May/June 1996 Feature

Scripture provides sufficient evidence to confirm belief in angels, and it is fur­ ther enforced by church councils* a spiritual network

Angels and the Church The Catholic Church's teaching on angels falls into three stages, reports Charlene Altemose, MSC, in her book, What You Should Know About Angels. Who are the angels? * Faith/discovery stage - the church has taught die existence of angels from God's Megan McKenna, PhD describes some angels in her book Angels Unawares, Word and has articulated the fundamental beliefs both in creed and dogma. Orbis Books, 1995. The following is taken fromthi s book. * Inquiry stage - the church's understanding of angels has been deepened and broadened by the writing and research of scholars and theologians. * Commitment stage - the church has consistently encouraged devotion to angels in Four Archangels in the Western Church: personal spirituality. Many witness to the presence of angels in their lives today. • Michael the protector. He is the angel who fought with Lucifer (lightbearer) over obeying God and the one who stood guard in the garden of Eden to make sure Adam and Eve did not return. He also talked to Joan of Arc. Angels in Scripture • Gabriel, archangel of truth, is best known for his visit to Mary telling her of God's Angels are everywhere fromth e earliest times. Without angels in the bible, wish that she give birth to the savior. He first appears in the Book of Daniel where he there is a significant gap in God's divine revelations. The Hebrews believed Yahweh protected Azariah and two companions from fiery death in a furnace and Daniel from had a company of personal messengers, unseen but very real, who acted as emissaries the jaws of a lion. He is the friend of scribes and patron of computers. from God to die Chosen People. • Raphael, the companion angel, means graciousness and healing. He led Tobias on Angel comes fromth e Greek aggelos which stems from the Hebrew word a journey to meet his future wife Sara and to collect money owed to Tobit, his blind mal'ak meaning messenger. Often in Hebrew scripture, angel does not refer to a father. He is the patron of travelers, gypsies, healers, fishers, the blind, and lovers. personal being but is synonymous with God's word. • Ariel or Phanuel - archangel of death and conversion. Death is the fulfillment of Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) life and Ariel draws us out of life and into the Light. (1 Enoch). He is not just the Angels appear in scripture around 1850 BC when Abraham extends hospital­ angel of death but also of transformation and conversion, standing in our presence and ity to three mysterious visitors who promise him he will be the father of a great nation. letting his shadow fall over us when something in us needs to be let go of, or turned Their identity is unknown but their divine message is clear. Angels flow freely aside from so that we may be filled up with God. through the Hebrew Scriptures, giving messages, obeying God, appearing in dreams In the Eastern Church, there is and burning bushes, cursing and destroying enemies, and protecting humans. • Selephiel - archangel of wisdom Michael, Gabriel and Raphael are mentioned by name. • Varachiel - guardian of truth and courage in face of persecution and opposition New Testament • Yegovdiel - angel of unity who knows all languages ofthe world Here angels usually announce their presence with the words, "Fear not!" They are majestic awe-inspiring creatures, announcing the conception and birth of Other angels: Jesus, comforting an adult Jesus in the desert, and talking to the women at the tomb. • Angel of Recidivism: Jesus prophesied that angels will accompany him at his second coming and will Recidivism is a tendency to relapse into a previous condition or mode of behavior, administer God's justice on Judgement Day. Angels guided the development of the especially into criminal behavior. This angel opened the door of the prison to let Peter early Church and intervened in marvelous ways. Peter and John were led by an angel free (Acts 12:6) It acts as guardian spirit to those who give others the message of life. out of prison, and an angel freed Peter from Herod. This angel is the patron of religious prisons who practice civil disobedience, tell the Scripture provides sufficient evidence to confirm belief in angels, and it is truth to the powerful, and protect the innocent with their words and lives, always further enforced by church councils. Although it is not described in Genesis and only nonviolently. referred to in Revelation, die story that some angels led by Satan revolted and are • Angels of Liturgy and Prayer - forever doomed has been defined as dogma. Angels pray with church assemblies and in the first Eucharistic Prayer, the Angel of The idea that each human has a guardian angel is a long standing tradition, God brings the gifts from the altar of earth to the altar of heaven. The angel is the but it has not been defined as doctrine. bridge between heaven and earth, the bearer of our gifts of bread and wine, the one who returns with the gifts transformed. Reason for angels • Angels, Stars and Dreams of Christmas - The mission of angels appears to be to worship and adore God, communicate Jesus and his parents needed angels, stars, and dreams to cope with the evil in their God's plan to humans, and to act as guardians and protectors. That they protect world. Dreams came to the Wise Men and Joseph. They hover where there is hate, humans is a belief that goes back to ancient times. Angels are pure spirits, not menace, plots to kill, and despair. They represent people and nations who hope. partitioned by matter, the highest level of beings next to God. Thomas Aquinas • Ministering Angels who test, judge, record and reveal believed they are pure intellect cannot reason or make judgments although Lucifer In the early church they were sent out to test the believers, monks, hermits, and and his followers made the choice not to follow God. Christians and to reveal their weaknesses and strengths. They are aids to conversion, spiritual guides, internal and external witnesses to actions and thoughts that expose the deeper meanings of insignificant actions and individual lives. These are the second set of angels - dominations, virtues and powers. They are interested in spreading the light and illuminating the world. • Angels of Resurrection and Revelation Mark's gospel describes the resurrection angel "as a young man sitting on the right, dressed in a white robe" sitting inside the tomb. An angel rolled away the stone. An angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid." Angels of resurrection are intermediar­ ies, they gathered the people to where Jesus was. These angels gather souls, separat­ ing the good from the evil to reward and punish in obedience to God. Revelation angels (found in Revelation) are too numerous to count. They Angels in the imagination represent churches, nations, periods of history. They wield the power and authority of Artists, musicians, and poets have brought angels to our senses. Most God and share it with those who are faithful. attribute angels with virtues, grace, and love. The first art pictured angels as strong, • Guardian Angels virile, stem, male youths. The great masters blended theological truths and intro­ Each of us is given an angel at birth to accompany us on our journey to the kingdom duced softer, gentler features which brought forth a sense of caring and healing and of heaven. They protect us from troubles within and guide us in three functions: eventually added femininity to angels in art Cupids or cherubs (from Cherubim) peace, penitence and prayer. One belief is that we have two angels ~ one of justice symbolized purity and innocence. who is mild, meek and peaceful, and one of wickedness who is rash, bitter, and evil. In the 16th century angels were portrayed with wings (after Nike the Greek They reflect the struggle of good and evil within us and comfort us in our struggle. goddess of victory) and to separate them from saints. Haloes or sometimes tiaras were placed around their heads. Classical angels are garbed in loose flowing attire tied with a waist sash, and Renaissance angels often wore priestly vestments. Victorian Do not neglect to offer hospitality; you know that angels wore lace and ribbons,an d chubby cherubs were often naked. Brilliant white is most often die color associated with angels, but they also wore deep purple or royal some people have entertained angels without knowing it blue, pastels or gold trimmed clothing. Hebrews 13:2 Early art depicts angels floating around or soaring upward, while later ones came down to earth level: standing, kneeling or walking. Rarely do they sit or lie Three men approached Abraham in his tent. The rites of hospitality in down. Early art portrayed them with stem faces (they often said, "Fear not."), heads the desert were quite rigid and Abraham put much effort into welcoming and bowed win. downcast eyes. Angels never came empty-handed - they usually held their serving the men. The men were three angels who told Abraham that next year hands in prayer or carried musical instruments, scepters, orbs, (power) scrolls. his aged and barren wife Sarah would have a son. Michael wore armour and a shield, Gabriel a lily or scroll, and Raphael, sandals and Be careful — you may be entertaining angels without knowing it! traveler's staff. Music comes naturally to angels. Throughout scripture, they make melody The above have been extracted from Angels Unawares. Megan McKenna, sing, dance, play lutes,, harps, timbrelsan d clashing cymbals, all in praise of God. Orbis Books, 1995, Condensed from What You Should Know about Angels. Charlene Altemose, MSC, Liguiori Publications, 1996. May/June 1996, Catholic Women's NETWORK Page 9 Feature Angels have intellects and other spiri­ tual qualities that make it possible for us to communicate with them*

III Aligning Angels can fly because they take themselves lightly! The GRACE process helps you to lighten up also. You can take yourself more lightly and move closer to the vibrational field of angels. This step involves bringing yourself into alignment with angelic energy. Aligning brings you into a more open space, still focused but relaxed. We must be relaxed to be open to their voices. Angels live in a state of expanded awareness and we need to expand our senses. This step has six exercises to help expand the senses: listening to music, centering meditation to feel the lifeblood pulsing within, vocalizing to open the throat chakra, a visualization for energy attunement, an angel invocation, and opening your wings.

IV Conversing How to connect with your angel! The authors of Ask Your Angels conduct many angel workshops and find The world is full ofa network of angels. Because they do not have bodies, that participants find it very easy to talk with their angels. The essence of opening to they are unseen, but they do have intellects and other spiritual qualities that make it your angel is simply coming into an open-hearted state. It is important to follow the possible to communicate with them. Ask your Angels by Alma Daniel, Timothy previous exercises in order without skipping any. The angels connect us to our Wyllie and Andrew Ramer, Ballantine Books, 1992, is a guide to establishing a new highest source of knowing, that aspect of ourselves which is God-conscious. We all form of relationship with your celestial companions. have it. The authors explain the GRACE process which enables persons to leam the When your angel speaks, it is important to write it down. Keep a special techniques of angelic communication. angel notebook. Write thoughts, don't be concerned with grammar or structure or judgment. / Grounding * Opening to your Angel: Go to your sacred space, do the breathing exercises, etc, Although angels are supposedly winged creatures floating in the air, the first then in your angel notebook, write down the date and question you want to ask your step in connecting with them is grounding yourself. This is essential in any spiritual angel. (What is your name might be your first question or What do you want to say work. to me). Be still and listen to your feelings. Angel messages come through feelings. Grounding means centering your attention in your body and being Write down what thoughts or feelings or sensations come to you. Thank your angel present in the moment. It is the act of gathering together all your energies—mental, for the message. emotional and physical— and bringing your thoughts and feelings into calm and Reflect on how you feel about the message. harmonious balance in your body. Grounding allows you to be fully present, alert, Practice. Practice. Practice. r^^\y relaxed, and receptive. It is like anchoring a boat. First suggestion is to find a comfortable place inside your home or perhaps in nature, create a sacred space, have an altar, light a candle, etc. Put yourself in this Sg-? —ea_ j;, space where you will not be disturbed. Quiet yourself and open up to the sounds of V Enjoying (The Angel Oracle) silence in order to hear the wonders that exist. The Angel Oracle is a divination tool which operates through what Swiss psychothera­ This book suggests three grounding exercises: pist C. G. Jung called synchronicity. Jung noticed * Be comfortable, relax, breathe in light breathe out tension. Feel light go into that a seemingly random action (tossing a coin or every part of your body. Feel roots grow out of your feet into the earth, deep enough to pulling a card from a deck) can provide you with a make you feel secure and rooted. Draw in the energy ofthe earth through your roots. deep, intuitive understanding of events in your life Feel the energy go out through your head and the energy ofthe heavens come in. Do if you know how to interpret it. When you consult this once or twice a day until you feel grounded. the Angel Oracle you create opportunities for * This explores the chakras, the seven energy centers in the body that help it angels to reach out with their guidance. integrate the physical with the mental and emotional. Three categories of information in the Angel * The third involves grounding with use of the chakras and a blending of the Oracle energy of the earth and heaven. * Archangels, the beings who will choreograph When you have practiced these enough to be familiar with them, you can your adventure: Michael, Raphael Gabriel, Uriel move on to the second part of GRACE. * 16 different kinds of angels ready to meet and engage and guide humans: companion, connect­ // Releasing ing, healing, wiring, transformation, pattern, Since angels operate on a different frequency than humans, their vibration is reorganization, peace angels, etc. finer. To communicate with them we need to move out of our ordinary state of mind * 24 life situations through which angels can be summoned: visit a wise person, do and move to a higher mind. We need to let go, to release our every day stress and nothing, do something new, give something away, have fun, incubate a dream, open a concerns. Freeing ourselves of negative concerns allows us to enter the angelic realm book at random, let angels write through you, expect guidance from the unexpected, of clarity, neutrality, and unconditional love. We need to get rid of our negative etc. voices and internal chatter that we are "not good enough". There are three exercises for releasing: What can angels do for us? The Spiritual Laundry List Living with angels doesn't change us into someone different. It doesn't make / Collecting- Ask yourself what gets in the way of contacting your angel. Write us better or improve us. It allows us to be the person we always knew or wished we down what comes up. Ask why you shouldn't contact your angel. Write down what were inside. They can help deepen our capacity for trust, compassion, and forgiveness comes up. Repeat until you get the same responses to various questions. and revive the innocence and wonder we knew as children. They often appear during // Sorting - Read your laundry list. Divide into two columns: Hold and Release. times of collapse to help us see new opportunities and radical transformations. Notice your breathing, your state of tension as you go over each response. Reflect on the feeling you get with it. Then put the response in the Hold or Release column. Do Credits with all the responses listed. This is an opportunity to remember negative events and Ask your Angels offers many, many ways for angel talk. It explains how to to release and move beyond them. fine-tune the angelic connection and how to work with angels to achieves goals, /// Basic Releasing Exercise recovery, healing, and to work with them in relationships and groups. Put yourself in your sacred space, do your breathing and grounding exercises and then The exercises briefly described here are given in much more detail and enter into this — which involves inhaling and exhaling, releasing outloud past issues, anyone interested in following the GRACE process is urged to buy the book in order to sending them down through your roots into the ground. You may be releasing envy of follow the process correctly. This condensation is very brief. The book contains 40 another, perfectionism, fear or any number of negative roadblocks. exercises and visualizations for connecting with angels. About the authors: Alma Daniel is a healing practitioner and psychothera­ pist, spiritual director and creator of Inner Voyages: She does angel workshops and Chronology of Angels sells tapes. Write her at Eldorado, 300 Central Park West NY, NY 10024. • Seraphim, Cherubim, and Thrones, the highest order of angels, are closest to Andrew Ramer is writer, artist and healer with degree in Religious Studies from UC God and worship God around the heavenly throne. Berkeley. Timothy Wyllie writes books on spiritual intelligence of dolphins. Ask • Dominations, Virtues, and Powers are the second triad. They govern the Your Angels, Ballantine Books, NY 1992. universe, preserve order and carry out God's will in the cosmos. • Principalities, Archangels, and Angels are the lowest order who deal directly with earth by communicating God's plan and protecting and guarding humans. Feature material on these two pages from What You Should Know About Angels has been compiled by Arlene Goetze. Page 10 Catholic Women's NETWORK, May/June 1996

Feature From our Readers Angels - a dogma of Catholic belief Message from the sky / mattered enough to Some­ one ... that heaven itself sent 32S First Council of Nicea declared belief in angels a dogma by Zoe Newman 343 Another council proclaimed it idolatry Albany, CA me this message from the sky. 787 Seventh Ecumenical Synod established a limited dogma ofthe archangels together with their names and special duties. This took rooti n the Eastern I have two stories to tell. I parked my car across the street from a church while distrust was present in the Western church. One winter, some seven years ago, I had small vegetable store and was gathering up Middle Ages: Angels were considered to govern the four elements of earth, air, been in a depression for some time and had the energy to get out to shop for my supper water and fire. They moved stars, tended plants, and graced births of all reached a point of deep inner weariness. when another car pulled up beside mine. humans. Each day of die week, each season, hour of day and each Nothing in my life seemed to be reaching It was someone I had only recently met. astrological sign had an angel. fruition. That particular morning I was He was only in that part of town, he ex­ Thomas Aquinas considered angels pure intellect without matter. He held feeling I couldn't go on any longer and was plained, because he had mixed up days on 15 discourses on angels in the period ofa week, setting out everything known or ready to give up. his calendar. He had come for an appoint­ asked about them. His lectures formed the foundation of our knowledge for the I had been running each morning for ment that was really scheduled for the next next 800 years. several years along the shore of a small day. Having a free 20 minutes, he invited from A Book of Angels, Sophy Burnham waterfront park near some old railway me to watch the sunset. tracks. Gregorian chant filled the car as he drove Even if I didn't have time or energy to me the few blocks down to the shore, and he run, I would stop there on my way to work, offered me a piece of gourmet mint choco­ walk out to a little bridge, and take in the late from a little gift box. There I rested, Angels sky and water for a few moments to replen­ nourished by the chocolate and Gregorian ish my spirit. As I got out of my car that chant and the sound of the lapping of the a mysterious network day, I was in deep despair and blinded by water through the open window. A great my tears as I walked toward the railway wing of cirrus clouds arched over the sky as tracks to the little bridge. Winged spirits~angels~are part of die the sun set. mystery of every culture. In A Book of My attention was caught by a burnt piece Then he returned me to my car and went Angels, author Sophy Burnham tells us the responsible for evil of paper floating in the wind. I picked it up on his way. Vikings called them valkyries. Greeks from where it came to rest on the tracks. It An angel, I thought to myself. He may called them horae. In Persia they were Just as all religions have good angels, was a page from a paperback novel, burnt think he is a man but he is an angel. I felt fereshta and in Hindu apsaras. they also have satanic or demonic figures into a triangular shape. At the top of the like Elijah who had lain down beneath this page it read: "the important thing was not There are angels in Zoroastrianism, in who lie and cheat and tempt humans with tree, too exhausted and discouraged to go to give up. Good things never come eas­ Buddhism, in Taoism. There were angels vanity, fear, doubts, lust and avarice. Sophy on and to whom God had sent a raven with ily." in ancient Assyrian and Mesopotamian finds that evil is not just an absence of good a morsel of bread to give him strength to thought and die belief in angels carried but that it is a palpable force in its own The page burnt downwards to a narrow continue his journey. down through Manichaean, Judaic, Chris­ right. point-leaving only the center four and five tian, and Islamic lore, all seeding one words of the remaining lines. Teach love another's faiths. In the Book of Job, Satan "Patience was also required" it said, and by Aileen Fitzke in the next line, "most important of all." It was Dionysius in the sixth century acts as a comrade of God, chal­ Irvine, CA whose writing about angels influenced later What profoundly touched me, more even than the words of support, was the tangible Catholic thought He named the nine lenging God's judgement in Twelve years ago when I was 21,1 was orders of angels and although others tried order to prove God's power.. sense of being loved — of not being alone. alone in my house. No one else was home. to do the same, bis order has lasted. .. that it mattered enough to Someone that I was praying alone in my room and I Diony si us was a Syrian in the Middle Ages I not give up, that heaven itself as it were, suppose I was getting fairly intense. Sud­ should send me this message from the sky. who wrote on mysticism and angels, pre­ In the Book of Job, Satan acts as a denly, I heard a gentle woman's voice and comrade of God, challenging God's judge­ tending to be a first century Greek con­ Chocolate and chant a wonderful feeling of peace descend on verted by St Paul. He is called Pseudo- ment in order to prove the power and My second story occured when things goodness of God. Until the Exile to Babylon, me. The voice said, "Be patient. Every­ Diony si us but his pretense was discovered were going well in my life but for some thing will be fine." but his influence at his time was enormous. Satan was in God's court of Heaven and reason I was feeling at a point of exhaustion God's servant The second experience was just about that reached across body and psyche. I felt five years ago. Again I was praying. This Angels in die Islamic tradition fell after like the people, when they are lost in snow­ time I was alone in a church. I was wonder­ the creation of humans, but Christian an­ Angels come in the shape storms, begin to succumb to the cold and ing what to do with my life. Again the gels fell before the creation of humanity. want to lie down in the snow and sleep. At gentle woman's voice spoke to me. She of friends but we recog­ Genesis does not tell the story ofthe fall, some deep level of my soul, I felt at that said, "Teach." but 14th century writer Dante in The Di­ nize them best when they point, with no energy to keep on, ready to When I asked what to teach, she replied, vine Comedy writes that the evil angels lie down in the snow. "Teach love." That was all. fell instantly, cast out because of Satan's come as strangers. I was driving home in the early evening Both times I knew it was God who was pride. ofa beautiful spring day. I thought of going speaking to me. I still have not figured out Sophy Burnham, a scholar with a Ph.D. Milton, writing Paradise Lost 350 years to the shore to watch the sunset but was too quite how to "teach love" but I'm working from Harvard Theological Seminary, shuns later, thought that the fall was a terrific tired to drive the extra five minutes. on it. guesswork and admires scientific investi­ three-day battle in heaven and it ended only gation. She has never had hallucinations because God interfered. The rebel angels and has been credible as a witness in court. hurled headlong out of the sky, some one Coming next issue.. Her own personal encounters with angels third of the whole angelic host going with Freedom has altered her thinking and deeply af­ Satan who lay nine days recovering from Write us your stories of freedom. fected her life. his fall before he went to stalk Adam and How free are you? Physically • emotionally • mentally She writes that angels come as thoughts, Eve in paradise. What are your limits? Your responsibilities? Your choices? visions, dreams, animals, light on water, or Fallen Angels, in Milton's poem came How does freedom operate in your family, culture, religion? in clouds and rainbows and as people as from all nine orders of angels. Here are a Send your comments, 500 words or less by June 1. well. They comes in all sizes and shapes few names: Readers whose stories are published will receive a copy of Women on the and colors, visible and invisible to the Beelzebub, next in rank to Satan, Lord of Way and a year's subscription to CWN. ^ physical eye. the Flies or Dung Send to CWN, 877 Spinosa Dr., Sunnyvale 94087 FAX 408/738-1767 They come in die shape of friends but we Moloch - horrid King besmeared with the recognize them best when they come as blood ofhuman sacrifice strangers, shifting into our lives for a mo­ Ashtaroth - a female spirit ment only and dancing out without even Mammom, Baalim, Astoreth, Azazel, St. Francis Retreat Center leaving a name. They come most com­ Belial (die most lewd) Several angels were killed in the clash. monly to children, saints, primitive people, July 5-7 Slowly Getting Well... with Fr. Tom Weston. S J. and to die innocents. You are always Early rabbinical writings considered Sa­ tan to be the Angel of Death since death A weekend for those in Recovery work changed when you have seen one. $100 per person/double occupancy Angels have always existed from the was considered an evil. Since death and beginning of time. They were there before evil are no longer connected, die Angel of Death comes today as a holy herald of me August 2-7 Reflections of a Life-Time Adam and Eve explored their garden. A six-day retreat for women Winged beings show, up in archeological bidding of God, not as a source of sin. Johnny Cash has been visited twice by Take the gift of time — in six days — to reflect leisurely and paintings from the earliest of recorded gracefully upon the movement of God's presence in your life. history. the angel of death — once when an angel told him his older brother Jack was going Sr. Joan King, OP, and Fr. Richard McManus, OFM to die and years later the same radiance $3 00 for private room with bath appeared to foretell the death of his best That's all an angel is, Only 45 minutes south of San Jose and located in the hills outside historic San Juan friend Johnny Horton. Bautista, our beautiful grounds, lake and Victorian ranch house provide hospitality in an idea of God, die Franciscan tradition. Meeting facilities/lodging available to outside groups. Meister Eckhart Extracted from A Book of Angels, Sophy For registration information, call (408) 623-4234 Burnham. Ballantine Books. NY 1990. PO Box 970,549 Mission Vineyard Rd. • San Juan Bautista CA* 95045 May/June 1996, Catholic Women's NETWORK Page 11 From the Inside Columns A life full of miracles A Window into Prison

by Jeri Becker Everyday miracles Considering a miracle to be that which by Vonda White fills us with wonder, which defies scientific explanation and affirms our faith in the / was shot three times in the "Are there miracles today," asks the Rabbi hand of God at work in our lives, I can only head and not one bullet en­ at the Shalom Sisterhood meeting. say that my life has literally sparkled with tered my brain. The debate rages. / have my own loaves and the miraculous. "Some might say it is a miracle to survive A miracle is defined only by the one fishes phenomena all the the CIW (Correctional Institute for experiencing it. When one has encoun­ ally draw to ourselves that power which is Women)." time... tered the miraculous, there is no doubt of its the very source of all miracles, all healing, all life. The scripture abounds with ex­ "No, God creating the world in six days origin. And when one understands and team—with both of us being equally expe­ amples of this principle. is a miracle—a miracle is a supernatural feels connected with the Source of all that rienced in life, filled with goodwill toward In my life I have experienced miraculous effect—unexplained events like Elijah go­ is ordinary as well as extraordinary, one others, yet coming from different direc­ reverses from illness which defied medical ing up to heaven in the chariot of fire and readily recognizes the miraculous. tions. treatment. My life has been spared more what happened at Sinai with 6,000 wit­ It takes eyes of faith to see the miracles. I agree with Dawn on the subject of than once when I was at the brink of nesses. 'When God intervenes' is arch A miracle may take us by surprise, but for miracles. There are everyday personal calamity. criteria for a miracle. I dont believe there one of deep, unshakable faith, it is no miracles that don't qualify under the Rabbi's I was shot three times in the head and not has been a miracle unless there were cred­ surprise that it occurred. criteria, but they are quite real to die re­ one bullet entered my brain. My health and ible witnesses." I have always felt sorry for those skeptics ceiver. One sees the situation as so normal vitality have been restored after weighing "Well, how about the raising of Lazarus?" and cynics who fail to recognize the miracles says I. "There were witnesses there." that it is only afterward that the supernatu­ which abound in our lives. Our society puts only 72 pounds and being given weeks to "You don't deny those kinds of miracles. ral becomes evident. more faith in the intellect that in intuitive live. You accept them all on the same basis. It Suddenly I know why people probably wisdom which is the voice of God speaking I have served 16 years ofa life sentence is not for us to deny the miracles of others." didn't marvel over the miracle ofthe loaves within us. Thus the physical world, mea­ in prison and awake every morning glad to Sandy asked "What else could they think and fishes at the time it happened. What sured and defined by science, appears to be be alive and full of joy, giving thanks to if Elijah was seen going up in his chariot? occurred must have appeared to be so ordi­ the only reality we will accept. God for this precious day, this chance to A UFO?" nary that nobody saw it until the leftovers In our eager determination to fulfill mate­ serve and grow in love and understanding; "If you can explain something scientifi­ were counted. rial desires and pursue worldly distrac­ grateful for the daily good company of my patient and virtuous roommate. cally, it is not a miracle," answers the I have my own loaves and fishes phenom­ tions, to entertain and indulge ourselves, ena all the time, and although the logic and My life is defined by the beauty and love Rabbi. "There is the element called causal­ we crush our sense of spiritual awe. causality are present, there is something of God; it is filled with meaning and pur­ ity." And science, with its misguided arro­ else at work here as well. pose and a deep sense of satisfaction. I have "But I walked away from drugs," says gance and obsession with finding logical My monthly report tells me I average seen encouragement awaken new hope Dawn. "That was a miracle." and rational explanations, blinds us to the about 80 women a month in my weekly arts among the despairing; I have seen a simple The dialogue continues between the Rabbi marvelous spiritual truth which are beyond and crafts classes. I dont doubt it. act of kindness turn a life around. and Dawn. the limitations ofthe rational mind. Faith What the statistics don't say is that people In meditation I have encounted that Rabbi: "There is a possible causality here: is not bound by logic and reason. And God are seldom turned away for lack of room inner light which is the source of all peace I did A, B, C, or D." is not limited by physical laws. (the other women take great delight in and power; and when I look the mirror, I Dawn: "But a thought came into my head Often it is only when we are at our most scooting over and bringing in another chair) vulnerable that we are wiling to let go ofthe can honestly say that I like who I see. Thus Rabbi: "That could be inspiration. Bat and that there are always enough art sup­ constraints of our rational thinking, espe­ I can truly say without hesitation, that my Kol is secondary revelation or inspiration. plies to go around. cially when it fails to provide any solutions. life abounds with miracles ... daily. It literally translates daughter's voice or I honestly don't know where it all comes when we xM^^ia^t^^li^t'ii^S%f^' child of the primary sources. It is a from—some ofthe supplies come from in­ dependency on our Creator such as in times Jeri Becker lives her life of miracles in mediated thought process." stitutional sources, a little from my own of illness or great crisis, when we feel the women's prison in Frontera, CA. Dawn: "I believe that there was a spiritual means, and a little from the bounty of helpless and cry out in our need, we actu- intervention in this case. Miracles like this friends who give of their own resources are very personal—that is God showing from time to time. God's own self to a person." It is one of those fragile miracles one doesn't look too closely upon lest it lose its NOffll*ViO!l@nce I think about Dawn's miracle for a mo­ magic through causality. Nonetheless, I The Future ment. I remember Dawn when she was so know that the flow of goodness in this case confused that there was little common is not subject to reason, and it qualifies as ground upon which we could meet. I didn't a genuine miracle in my book of supernatu­ of Religious Life even know her well enough to really see the ral sustaining phenomena. good to hope for in her, but now suddenly What more can one ask? Ask us about it! in her, a dark horse has come up beside me in the race. Vonda White experiences her miracles as a We are remarkable well-matched as a resident ofthe California prison for women at The Wheaton Franciscans Frontera,

Contemporary women dedicated Exquisite Sacred Art to building community. Catalog $5 refundable Rediscover Trast Creator Mundi Write: Gabriele Uhlein, OSF, PO BOX 667 Empowerment 2590 W. Main Street Yourself Wheaton, IL 60189-0667 umC Littleton, CO 80120 Deep Personal and Spiritual Transformation through Unique Center for Gerontology, Spirituality & Faith; Individual and Group Therapy tfft Council of Churches, and Stanford 3 SAN DAMIANO Learn how to free yourself Geriatric Education Center present W. J from the limiting messages I TJT RETREAT you learned in childhood Spirituality and Aging: RETREATS Mav 10-12 •Relationships •Self-esteem The Role of Emotions Mother's Day Weekend for Mothers & •Career •Parenting Daughters Wake up to your emotions, overcome the •Anger •Depression Mother's Day — A Time to Care numbness which blocks spiritual growth, and •Recovery •CZbrningout May 17-19 learn tools for yourself and those you care for A Silent Contemplative Prayer Weekend to become spirituality engaged Weekend Workshops Susan McFadden, PhD A Walk in our inner Woods Three Month Intensives Prof, of Psychology, U of Wise with Thomas Merton Where Freedom Begins by Pastor Friday. May 17 Consultant, researcher, widely June 11-12 and Luyet describes our work. published in areas of aging, spiri­ A Midweek Contemplative Retreat 8:30 am - 3:30 pm tuality & psychology with Sr. Ishpriya Free initial consultation Open to all caregivers, clergy The Utter Fullness of God at Sunny View Retirement and religious, parish ministers, June 21-23 Community, 234451 Cupertino Rd. Institute for chaplains, nurses, social A Silent Contemplative Weekend at Foothill Bl., Cupertino, CA workers, administrators, The Contemplative Dimension ofthe Personal Change Christian Life est. 1984 therapists Write or call 1097 Sneath Lane San Damiano Reservations Call 408/253-4300, Ex 16 for info or to register PO Box 767, Danville CA 94526 San Bruno, 94066 510.837.9141 415 742-9903 Page 12 Catholic Women's NETWORK, May/June 19^6

Columns Rites of Passage

Stories in the Night A wake ritual Advance preview by Sue Serrone

by Carole Marie Kelly, OSF Last February my next door neighbor, business partner, and close friend died / am standing in the plaza ofa medi­ after a ten year battle with cancer. Joan eval town. Looking up I see a funnel passed away in the manner she had lived Joan knew a gathering of cloud approaching. Frightened, I run We can know a dream is her life—full of purpose, determination family and friends would be for cover, but when I next look up, the anticipatory after the actual and penetrating intellect. good for us as survivors. cloud has become a fairy-like figure She wanted to die at home and she did. holding a head in her left arm. With her event has taken place. She wanted to have a "wake" in her home right hand, she gouges out the right side sometime after her cremation and so we while I said: of the face. been more careful? did. She knew a gathering of family and "As the smoke rises and passes to invis­ My only insight was that perhaps the friends would be good for us as survivors, ible and unknown realms, take some deep Reflecting on this dream, I played with dreams had prepared me in advance for and I was asked to do a ritual for the event. slow breaths and close your eyes for a numerous associations and possible mean­ what I was to experience. I realized that A week after Joan died, on a Saturday moment." ings. None seemed to fit, so I set it aside, I had been unusually calm through the night, 100 people came to her house, / acknowledged my own need to do waiting for clarification from future trip to the hospital for stitches and x-rays, bringing fine food and wine. At 7 pm I this. It was a very emotional moment. dreams. even though the doctor had said that if my stood in front ofthe fireplace in the living After a couple of breaths I continued. Within a week I dreamed that I put a cheek bone was broken, my eye might room and struck a gong several times until "Feel the warmth of all the people pencil in a woman's mouth and asked her "dropdown." That sounded like a terrible all was quiet. standing near you and the freedom and to bite down. She did and broke her two possibility which did not materialize, but This is the ritual we used. openness ofthe air above your head." right front teeth. The next night I saw I accepted even that pronouncement with­ We pause for a while. myself in a dentist's chair. He was drilling out undue concern. "Hello. My name is Sue and I'm here "Now, standing as a community of away the same two teeth. I have had other "anticipatory" or "pre­ with my husband Mike and our daughters friends and family, imagine your love and Not connecting these two dreams with cognitive" dreams and have read about Anna and Christine. We live next door gratitude for having known such a great die first one, I associated teeth with con­ many others. Carl Jung referred to them and are friends of Joan and her husband soul as Joan being carried to the Creator of trol issues and concluded that I must need as meaningful, acausal coincidences, or Brian and their dogs, Maxwell and Ripley. All Things on the smoke. to let go of my efforts to control some synchronicities. They are unexplainable Joan and I, along with her sister Lynne We pause again. things in my life. That seemed to make in any way that can be proven, but they and friend Karen, founded a business "When the gong sounds you may drop sense, so I forgot about the dreams. The happen. called Ritual Hut several years ago. hands." meaning was obvious, I thought. We can know a dream is anticipatory Joan and I shared a deep belief in the "Many of you know, as I do, that Joan A few nights later I dreamed that I got after the actual event has taken place. importance and need for rituals in our wanted this gathering to be a party, where up during the night and looked in the Therefore, we must be careful not to worry lives and that's why I am going to lead us we can eat, drink and be as merry and mirror. The right side of my face was red that every terrible dream we have may in a brief ritual that we can all participate joyful as we can. If anyone wants to speak, and swollen. This, of course, reminded come true. Most ofthe time dreams are in. Then anyone who wishes can come please come up now." me of the first dream but still left me spoken in symbolic language, such as my and say a few words about Joan. Several people spoke briefly. Linda searching for meaning. funnel cloud that became a fairy. I could Many of us don't know each other, but and Keith sang one of Joan's favorite The next day I went into town for an not have imagined that meant I was going we do know that each of us has come songs. I struck the gong one more time to appointment As I was returning to my to fall! because of our love and friendship for officially end the wake for my friend. car, I tripped on a crack in the sidewalk Dreams will always remain mysteri­ Joan and Brian. We want to express our and fell on the right side of my face, ous and unexplainable, but they fulfill a sadness that Joan has left us and our love Sue Serrone is a sociologist, writer, and cutting it, and yes, cracking my two right purposeful function in balancing our and support for Brian. I am going to light ritual maker. front teeth! Consequently, I soon found psyche and, perhaps, preparing us for some very smoky copal incense and dim myself in die dentist's chair as he drilled future events. The more we listen to our the lights. away part of those teeth in preparation for dreams, the more we will realize their Since ancient times, people from all capping them. value. over the world and from all religions have Mary Lenahan CEA, MA.. I was in awe of die synchronicity of this For more information on synchronicity, offered up prayers on the smoke of food Spiritual Direction series of dreams with the actual events I recommend Ira Progoffs Jung, and incense. Please take the arm or hand that occurred. Did I really know at the Synchronicity and Human Destiny. ofthe person on each side of you." Women's Spirituality: unconscious level exactly what was going As people joined hands, 1 held up the to happen? If so, why had I not dreamed Carole Marie Kelly, OSF, is a spiritual incense burner as high as I could and Retreats of tripping on a crack so that I would have director and educator who does dream work moved it slowly towards all directions, Workshops from her hermitage in CarmeL Carmel 408/625-3058 On J Shelf Hatha Yoga the Gentle Exercises for stretching and toning muscles and relieving Hidden Women of the Gospels, Kathy The Catholic Woman, Difficult Choices stress followed by a guided deep This book of heavenly encounters follows relaxation period. Coffey, Crossroad Publishing, New York, in a Modern World, Jeanne Pieper, two Anderson has written on angels. It is a 1996. Lowell House, Los Angeles 1993. collection of lovely short stories about people's Relaxing and Revitalizing Just when you think stories about women in Wherever you fit as a member ofthe Catho­ unexplained experiences in life. It is gentle the bible have been exhausted, along comes a lic buffet table, you will find stories of others reading about the goodness and kindness of Certified by Integral Yoga and IA YT little gem. Of 1,426 people given named in die with your views. Author Jeanne Pieper leads people who are often viewed as angels in Peggy Leising 408-247-4659 Hebrew Scripture (Old Testament), only 111 readers on a trip down memory lane of what ft human form. It's great for lifting spirits. are female. Kathy Coffey writes poetically was like growing up Catholic since the 1960s. and poignantly about 19 unnamed women She describes the makeup of women in the In the Embrace of God, Feminist Ap­ whom she imaginatively tells readers about church today, admitting she does not believe proaches to Theological Anthropology, * Susanna, wife ofa shepherd at Bethlehem. in categories yet offering seven for readers to InterPlay Classes Susanna writes a first person account of bore­ identify with: angry radical or moderate femi­ edited by Ann O'Hara Graff, Orbis Books, lace to Play Together nists, codependent or creation based believ­ Maryknoll, NY 1995, dom with a life of herding sheep, of seeing the Taught by Penny Mann, minister & stars and angels overhead, the quick sprint to ers, fundamentalists or traditionalists or die Where do we come from? Where are we InterPlayer and Fawn Christianson, Bethlehem, the meeting of Mary andasecond average woman in the pew. going? Theological anthropology asks that we Trager Practioner & InterPlayer meeting years later when Jesus is preaching. The next tour is through a brief survey ofthe pay attention to our place in creation as well as * Sara, die mother of Peter's wife. She lives issues for Catholics in the 1990s. The author to the issues of eschatology (the last things.) Uncover the secret desire to play—explore with Elizabeth, her oldest daughter and Peter, writes in a casual storytelling style, using her As humans we grow out of our physical world, possibilities, loosen up your body, find a not-so-favorite son-in-law. Sara was in­ interviews of mostly upper middle-class Ameri­ families, societies, cultures and histories. Al­ some freedom and release. Fawn and censed because Peter wanted to leave his cans of European backgrounds. This book though unique, we belong to each other and we Penny will lead you through step-by-step family to foi low Jesus, leaving Elizabeth home offers an opportunity to examine where you live, move, and have our being in the embrace techniques which incorporate body and with small children. have come from, reflect on where you are of God. This collection of 12 essays enters the voice which were developed by InterPlay Author Coffey introduces Raissas who baked today, and feel the energy of others who be­ conversation of what it means to be human and founders, Cynthia Winton-Henry and bread and cooked fish, Rebecca, mother ofthe lieve as you do, whether liberal or ultra conser­ of what value is woman's experience. Subjects Phil Porter. Less stress, more laughter! blind man; and Hannah, the woman at the foot vative and who still find the Catholic church include the struggle to name women's experi­ More passion, fullness and vitality! ofthe cross. their home. ence, sexuality, feminist psychology, theology 5 Wed nights- Mav 29-June 26 After a first person account written by each of suffering, sin, feminist eschatology and 7:30-9:30 pm rethinking the image of God. This is scholarly St Francis Episcopal Church imaginary woman, the author makes applica­ Where Miracles Happen, True Stories reading. 1205 Pine Ave, San Jose tion to the lives of women today and suggests of Heavenly Encounters, Joan Wester questions for discussion. A delight ofa book $90 - 5wks • $80 before May 13 Anderson, Ballantine Books, NY, 1994. and appropriate for group discussion. Reviews by Arlene Goetze $70 - register with friend by May 13 May/June 1996, Catholic Women's NETWORK Page 13

Mills follows up Beijing

For those who did not attend the International Women's NGO Forum near Beijing last year, perhaps the next best thing was to attend the Women's Leadership for a New Century conference at Mills College, Oakland on April 13. Almost 400 women, a large portion young women and mostly local to the San Francisco Bay Area, attended to discuss and take action on the agenda through 30 workshops and dialogue sessions. Speakers at a closing assembly reminded participants to see each other as the greatest resource for women. Radical feminists are needed on the outside of institutions and moderate feminists are needed on the inside. Together doors will open. They were also reminded to network... it's not what women know but who we know that is important. Shirley May Springer Staten, International singer and Cultural Events Coordinator for the NGO conference near Beijing, led the women in a closing song, "Gonna keep on movin' forward, never lookin' back... raising Women Walking Tall performed a noon presentation at the Mills conference. It our voices loudly, never lookin' back. is a stilt dancing performance group which combines political fun and creative expression through the ancient art of stiltwalking. Members are from six to 60. (Contact is 415-789-7671.)

Women's Journey to Herself Women springclean their spirituality • Growth and support groups focus on self-inquiry for insight and healing • Group interaction and support for re­ Consecration, genuflection, and gory im­ "Today is an exercise in housecleaning ries, spiritual bouquets and ejaculations, solving personal life issues—relation• ..we are going to go through the stuff in pagan babies and indulgences, dress codes, ages ships, self esteem, inner child work, life our spiritual closet," said Marie-Eloise and spiritual reading. Eloise told the story of Anna, a widow transitions Rosenblatt, RSM, PhD, as she opened a The housecleaning took place when who lived 60 years in the Temple and who • Grounded in depth psychology and day of retreat,Spring Housecleaning your the participants decided how to handle the was present at the presentation of Jesus in die practice of presence Spirituality on Saturday, March 23 in contents of their closets. Here is how a few the Temple. "Anna was a prophet, not Tues or Thrs 7-9 pm in Los Gatos Saratoga. items were sorted out. because she foretold the future but be­ $25 session • (408)395-6033 "We want to make a list of what is in our Things to keep and use: bible study, cause as an elder wise woman she could Mary E. Lord, LMFCC closets and then decide what to keep, fix, examination of conscience, prayer, stained connect the present with the past and keep give away or trash." glass, incense and candles, angels, church alive some sense of hope," said Eloise who herself has studied and worked in the Holy Eloise, author, editor and instructor in bells Seeking God scripture at Santa Clara University, in­ Keep and fix: Papacy, hierarchy, poor Land several times so as to integrate past vited the 30 women present to take inven­ box (sense of giving), memorized prayers, and contemporary spirituality. in the Silence ofthe Desert tory of the expressions of holiness that stations, rosaries, litanies, Altar society Anna saw what went on in the temple, RViigrvmagifytriat they could recall from their youth. Give away: plastic statues, kissing epis­ pointed out Eloise. She saw the evil to Mt. Sinai and Jerusalem The list was long. Women recalled copal rings, Black Vestments practices as well as the beneficial ones. 22 Mav to 4 June 1997 frequent confession and May processions, Toss out: communion hosts (replace with "Women make up 85 percent of the Contact: The Pilgrim's Guide statues and holy cards, novenas and rosa­ real bread); guilt, relics of saints, bells at staffs of the church," said Eloise. "Our InCA: (510)855-4709 hands do precious and very important InVA: (703)644-1896 work, and women are an indelible pres­ 7481 Huntsman Blvd, Suite #105 ence. Imagine what would happen if we Springfield, VA 22153 went on strike!" The afternoon reflections focused on contemporary spirituality in relation to women's bodies, work, creative expres­ sion, health issues, and emotions. r "I hate my body," said one woman in a DOREEN BROWN, M.A. small group discussion. "My mother told me my body was • Licensed Marriage & Family Counselor evil," said another. "I can't even allow • Certified California School Psychologist myself to have a massage." • Individual, couples, adolescents While the church has venerated the • Hypnotherapy ability of Mary to give birth to Jesus, it has done so by negating her sexuality. Most 2100 Curtner Avenue, Suite J women present reflected the feelings that San Jose, CA 95124 the church does not respect and value 408/559-3694 Lie. MFC 14505 women's sexuality today norwomen'swork During the closing ritual, Eloise offered each woman some wheat seeds as a symbol of new in the church. growth. The retreat day closed with a ritual which included the burning of incense Financial Education and prayers of petitions, and a chant of Need Help? Happiness is... being a Missionary! receiving and giving in shared sisterhood. One participant summed up the day: Call Sue Mallory Do you think you have a religious missionary voca­ "This program was valuable because we Enrolled Agent tion? If so, we invite you to find out more about showed our ability to laugh at our past Income Tax Specialist MMM (Medical Missionaries of Mary) by contacting experiences in the church, and because I know that my experience is shared by Siser Cheryl Blanchard 408/252-7447 PO Box 1436 other women and they too would like to work for change." Free 1/4 hour phone consultation Chula Vista, CA 91912 Ascension Parishioner 27 years r Carolyn Martin PhD "\ Licensed Psychotherapist _gE3E3aa_aB3B3_3BB---5-_-5-_-H 25 years in private practice-experience working with religious, semi­ Mount SUverno Conference Center (Presents: nary students and individuals on questions of faith and interpersonal May 3-5 "Cross & Creation' - Brother Bin Short, OFM issues, living in community and in solitude, meditation, and personal * A retreat on Franciscan Spirituality • life choices concerning vocation and personal identity. June 8 "Heal Ourselves & Heal the World" - Pat Cane & Sister Mary Litel

Call 510/848-2587 for an appointment • Berkeley, CA |jLocgted|ai the Emerald Hills of Redwood Cfty^ this Ecumenical Center has: V Beautiful Grounds • Swimming Pool Basket Ball, Volleyball, and Tennis V Comfortable Lodging * Delicious Meals and Snacks V Meeting Facilities for Non-Profit and Business Groups • Award Dinners, Group bundles of this issue are available for the cost of postage. BaTOuets Family Reunions. Wedding Receptiona.. $3 per issue or $20 per year will bring you 15 to 35 copies to share with parish or friends. Help us distribute. Write or call CWN. For More Information Please Call 415/369-0798 Page 14 Catholic Women's NETWORK, May/June 1996 CWNPrmam Woman Prayer Little Things - theme of CWN retreat Our Way-Where Little Tilings Lead will be the theme ofa weekend retreat, July 19—21 at the lovely St Francis Retreat House in San Juan Bautista, CA. The little things of life so often seem only that-little things leading nowhere. Routines and chores seem to keep us root- bound and forever starting over, repeating and forever redoing. Sooner or later everyone begins to find Margaret Marcroft Bonnie Gartshore her way and usually, upon reflection, it is sultant in the Diocese of Monterey, and die little things that change our lives. assisted by writer Bonnie Gartshore. It will We invite you to take this weekend away begin with dinner on Friday night and end from your usual routine to look through with Sunday lunch. God's eyes at your life. We will explore Cost of die weekend is $ 110 for double ways that die ordinary can glorify God. room, $140 for single or $70 for commut­ There will be time for reflection, group ers. A $25 non-refundable deposit is due by sharing, prayer, scripture study and nature Lucia Lung anoints and massages the hands of Marianne Williams at the April 13 Wednesday, July 10. Register on the form Woman Prayer. The Hands of God was the theme ofthe morning and Mary Anne walks. Therapeutic massage will be avail­ below. Ravizza and Suzanne Young led the women in a celebration and recognition of hands able. For more information call Margaret at as the instruments of God. The retreat will be led by Margaret 408/484-5040 or the Sunnyvale CWN of­ Marcroft, spiritual director and CWN con- fice at 408/245-8663. Sat. May 4 will be the next WomanPrayer gathering. An Encounter with Eve - the Original Mother: From a memory of sin and guilt, we will reclaim Eve as our original mother, a source of healing, and the feminine face of God. All women are invited to attend. There is no fee. 'Share in our past The meeting is at 4300 Bucknall Rd, Room 8 in the former school building. Comer of Bucknall and San Tomas Aquino, San Jose, (not San Tomas Our past issues are mighty good reading. Expressway.) For more information, map, or reservation, call CWN at 408/245- So is our book. Women on the Wax, which is a collec­ 8663. Time is from 9 to 11 am. tion of eight of our first themes on Mary, Eve, Teresa of Avila, Stages of Faith, Power, Enneagram etc.), plus 18 There will be no WomanPrayer during June or July. Wholly Mother Church cartoons, 11 Photo Reflections, and the poems and essays of 35 women. r ~\ Please send me the following super reading! No of copies for women Women on the Way - $8 includes tax & shipping x $8 - $_ Sacred Circles (3-5 copies are $7 each, 6 or more are $5.50 each) Back issues of CWN are SI each or 6 for S5 Deep Trust, Passion, Confidence #45 Faith, more than a game (Belief, doubt, etc) through your soul working 44 Corning of Sage (wisdom/older age) Women Who Run With the Wolves 43 Jesus from a Woman's View (Nov 95) song, reflection ritual, story 42 Work: Inner and Outer (Sep 95) 41 Beauty, more than skin deep (July 95) 40 Friendship, die ultimate relationship (May 95) Begins June 10 39 Paradise, (death & dying) (Mar 95) 10 weeks Selina Sweet, PhD 408/236-2122 38 Me and My Shadow (Jan 95) 37 It's About Time (Nov 94) 35 Scripture from a Woman's View (July 94) 34 Loneliness and Solitude (May 94) 33 Women Awakening (Mar 94) Spiritual "Director's Institute 32 Humor, for Wholeness and Holiness (Jan 93) 31 Simplicity, key to spirituality (Nov 93) A program for those who are exploring the ministry of spiritual direction and 28 Addictions, is grace the answer (May93) 26 Intimacy, Time of Revelation (Jan 93) who are interested in professional development in the knowledge of spiritu­ ality. Program meets monthly in the evenings. Begins September 14,1996. Total number of copies xSleach-S Special prices: 10 or more of same issue — $.50 each Total enclosed $_ Coll Now For More Information! Name. JHphone Mercy Center (415) 340-7474 Application deadline: Street_ 2300 Adeline Dr_ Burlingame, CA 94010 August 26,1996 CIlJL. State Zip. Mail to CWN, 877 Spinosa Dr., Sunnyvale 94087 or FAX 408/738-2767 Would you like to receive this paper by mail? Catholic Women's Network is a non-profit educational organization. Free distribution of our 10,000 copies per issue varies. If you like our publication, we invite your financial support. We place them in churches, schools, public libraries, Eighty percent of our papers are distributed without charge. retreat centers but not always the same sites each issue. Your contribution is tax-exempt and will encourage our ministry. If you would like to have this paper delivered to your Help us share the good news of women! home, please tell us how:

Please send NETWORK for one year by First Class Mail (1-2 day delivery) $16.00 Bulk Mail (2 days to 2 weeks delivery) $10.00 CWN Registration Form Please send copy of Women on the Way $ 8.00 (Great collection of past articles, cartoons, poems etc.) Please register me for the CWN Retreat at San Luis Obispo described above. Please put me on the list...not able to donate now Here is a donation for CWN ' July 19-21 Non-refundable deposit due July 12 $25 Total enclosed I Full payment Double $110 Single $140 Commuter $70 I Some scholarship aid available. Confirmation letter/maps will be sent Name Phone I Address • Name Phone Address City. State Zip.

City. _Zip_ Start with Jan Mar May July. Sept_ Nov I 1 need a ride Where did you get this paper. Mail to Catholic Women's Network, 877 Spinosa Dr., Sunnyvale, CA 94087 Mall to Network, 877 Spinosa Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94087 _J L Catholic Women's NETWORK* May/June 1996 Page 15

Morning Sessions A - Workshops for the June 22 gathering 10:15 to 12 noon See page 16 for schedule, noon events and map

A-l Healing with Earth Energy — This workshop will explore the concept of directing and B-4 Healing Ourselves. Healing Our World — Learn some simple integrated methods sending spiritual energy and earth energy to another person to balance and energize the of healing to use daily with yourselves and others. Visualization, accupressure, body body and strengthen the body-mind connection thru laying on of hands. movement and massage can help you connect with your Higher Self & bring healing. Vivian Arrizon-Lopez is a biochemist, a Reiki Master, and intuitive healer who Pat Cane. MA is founder/director of CAPACITAR. She was co-coordinator of the brings a diversity of ancient healing techniques. She uses Body Symbology to unlock the Healing Tent with the Chinese Traditional Medical Assn. at the '95 Beijing World Forum. body's literal and symbolic meaning of illness and bring healing through compassion. B-5 We Believe... I Believe — An opportunity for reflection and dialogue about basic faith A-2 Enlightenment with theEnneagram —The enneagram is one ofthe world's oldest of Catholics. The workshop explores how the creed can be dynamic faith witnessed in models for understanding how people relate to each other. This is an introduction to the church and society. Individual sharing, presentation and dialogue. nine basic personality types which help us to identify our central motivations. Marianne Farina. C.S.C.. has a MA in catechetics from Santa Clara Un i versi ty and June Canoles. SND. is a handwriting analyst and director of Insyte, Inc. She is a a degree in design She ministered for 13 years in Bangladesh. She begins doctoral studies Management Development and Personnel Consultant for national and international firms. this fall. She conducts enneagram workshops across the U.S. B-6 Inventing Personal Rituals for Life's Turns — Experience a 40 minute ritualt o A-3 Devotions for Today? —Catholic devotions seem to have disappeared with the liturgical help us savor an ordinary event in our lives. Then learn a process for thinking what you renewal following the Vatican II Council. Is the liturgy enough for Christians today? This want to mark and how to develop a personal ritual for it. We'll share ideas and have fun!. workshop will explore Catholic devotions from the past and present. Penny Mann is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ with a MDiv degree Rita Claire Dorner. OP. PhD is director ofthe Graduate Program in Pastoral She has served as a campus, urban, parish and interim minister & a member of WING IT! Ministries at Santa Clara University. She has a doctorate in liturgy from Catholic Performance Ensemble. University, and MA in music from DePaul Univ. She has served on bishops' commissions. A-4 Myths of Transformation: Claiming My Story — This will offer a space to B-7 Wise Women's God Women's experience calls us to re-think our understanding of God, celebrate the "right to your own story." We will use creative expression to invite into our and female imagery gives us new language. As we awaken to new readings of scripture, circle the revelation of feminine wisdom and practice. Bring a journal and crayons. we will consider the Wisdom-Sophia theology as revitalizatoin for our spirituality. Dorothy Etling. PhD, has her doctorate in transpersonal psychology and teaches at Marie-Eloise Rosenblatt. RSM. PhD teachers scripture at Santa Clara Univer­ the California Institute of Integral Studies and Institute of Transpersonal Psychology. sity. She taught at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago and is editor/author of several She founded interconnections for women's psychological and spiritual growth. books including Paul the Accused and Where Can We Find Her. A-5 Awe and Abundance: Past. Present and Future B-8 Connecting with a Body Positive - This workshop will allow participants to question This workshop will explore our relation with creation, how it has grown and changed over cultural beliefs and look at their bodies in a new way. Many women are on diets tomol d the centuries and how it can enhance many ways of praying. themselves into the popular ideal. Learn techniques to let go of negative body images. . Jose Hobday. OSF. is an international lecturer, storyteller, and faculty at the Carolyn Royal. LMFCC. is a licensed psychotherapist specializing in eating Institute in Culture and Creation Spirituality. Of Seneca Iroquois descent, she has min­ disorders, depression, self-esteem and hypnosis. She has a master's degree in clinical istered with Native Americans on reservations and ministered to street youth & prisoners. holistic health education from J.F. Kennedy University, Orinda, and is an LMFC. A-6 Moving into Stillness: (Chi Kung) -The ancient Chinese skill of Chi Kung (Qi Gong) B-9 Tai Chi Chih: Joy through Movement —Tai Chi Chih consists of simple repetitive provides simple, effective ways of quieting mind, body, and spirit before entering into a movements that emphasize a soft, flowing continuity of motion to relax and refresh. It is time of prayer. These movements focus the mind, release tensions, and balance energies. the science of stimulating & balancing the internal energy known as Chi. Carole Marie Kelly. OSF. Ed.D. has studied Chi Kung for four years at the Donna Shaffer was accredited in 1987 by T'ai Chi Chuan Master Justin Stone. She International Chi Kung Institute. She lives as a Franciscan hermit in the Carmel hills, does has taught for nine years, is a Reiki Master and has studied Tibetan Chi Kung, multi-energy spiritual counseling and leads retreats. She is the author of Symbols of Inner Truth. understanding, and meditation. B-10 States of Mind: Explorations in Consciousness — How does our state of mind A-7 Mothering our Daughters - Daughtering our Mothers — This workshop will contribute to health, illness or wholeness? Explore the mind/body/spirit connection use input, discussion, storytelling, and song to explore how the mother/daughter relationship through dreams, meditation, hypnosis, trance, spiritual emergencies, psychic perception. develops and how we can establish and maintain rewarding relationships. Candace Sibcy is a graduate of Stanford University and has a master's degree in Carol Mitchell. Ph.D.. is a spiritual director, licensed psychologist, and teacher. She transpersonal psychology. She is a personal growth consultant who leads dream and has taught on the graduate level and counseled individuals, groups, and religious support groups and classes. communities in areas of spirituality and psychology. B-ll Genealogy: Connecting with your Family Roots - Learn techniques and sources A-8 Inter-Faith Stories of Women — Thfe'workshop will presentalvwervfewoffnffiistory to unravel the story of your family. Emphasis will be on the "Good Ancestor Policy , i.e., and principles of five traditions and a woman from each tradition will tell how her faith "Leave for your descendants what you wish your ancestors had left for you." informs and impacts her life. Judith Svoboda. has been acttve for 20 years in the Bay Area Genealogical Society. Rev. Dona Smith-Powers, ordained American Baptist clergywoman is the Minister She has lectured at many conferences and is past president of Santa Clara County of Justice and Peace at the First Baptist Church, Palo Alto, and is founder ofthe Interfaith Historical & Genealogical Society. Institute of Santa Clara County. A-9 Singing with Body and Soul —Singing, chanting and improvising with sound is an B12 - Drum Massage TM (Repeat of A-12> Jennifer Wilsey ancient practice, used throughout time for healing, creating community, for strengthening End of workshop listings and celebrating. This workshop is playful, physical, & musical. Wear loose clothes. Betsy Rose is a singer, songwriter, recording artist, and workshop facilitator who ror the past 20 years has toured and performed internationally. She teaches at the Institute in Culture & Creation Spirituality in Oakland. A10 Loneliness—Trauma or Treasure —Does your loneliness disconnect you from Registration Form r ^ others? Examine loneliness it in relation to isolation, solitude and intimacy and see how they can work toward wholeness.Includes ways to manage loneliness. Dottie Temby is a LMFC in San Jose with a M.A. from Santa Clara University. She Please complete both sides has developed classes for the Alcohol and Chemical Dependency Institute, and leads workshops in communication, anger and other mental health areas. You can attend one session in the morning and one session A-ll Open Mind. Open Heart ~ Centering prayer opens us to the presence and action of in the afternoon. However, we ask that you please list four Christ in the stillness of our inmost being. Both experiential and instructive this workshop choices (1,2,3) in order of preference for each session. will allow time for the practice ofthe prayer. The root of prayer is interior silence. Morning Session A Afternoon Session B Suzanne Toolan. RSM.from Mercy Center in Burlingame, has been trained in Centering Prayer by Thomas Keating and gives retreats throughout the country. She A-l Healing with Earth Energy _ B-l Transform Anger/Conflict is a liturgical composer, and works with Taize ecumenical prayer and music. A-2 Intro to Enneagram _B-2 Connect thru Writing A-12 Drum Massage TM fSame as B-12) — This is the drumming on the human body A-3 Devotions for Today? _ B-3 Prayer in Daily Life with precisely tuned rhythmic accompaniment. In this workshop you will learn basic A-4 Claiming my Story _ B-4 Heal Ourselves,Our World techniques for drumming on the body and on a drum. Bring your own hand drum. A-5 Awe & Abundance _ B-5 We Believe... I Believe Jennifer Wilsey has been playing drums and percussion and teaching professionally A-6 Move to Stillness (Chi Kung) _B-6 Inventing Personal Rituals for ten years. She teaches individuals and groups in drumset, percussion, and hand drums A-7 Mothering our daughters _B-7 Wise Women's God in the Bay Area and is co-presenter of DrumMassageTA/ presentation to groups. A-8 Inter-Faith Stories _ B-8 Connect w/Body Positive A-9 Singing with body/soul _B-9 Tai Chi Chih A-10 Loneliness _B-10 States of Mind Afternoon Sessions B - 2:00 -3:45 pm A-ll Open Mind, Open Heart _B-11 Connect w/Family Roots B-l Transforming Anger- A Creative Response to Conflict —Peaceful relationships _A-12 Drum Massage _B-12 Drum Massage are not achieved by avoiding conflict/anger. This will offer tools for transforming destructive patterns into mutually empowering channels for increased connection. Noontime Connie Batten. MA. has a master's degree in clinical psychology from J. F. Kennedy Please indicate your preference for noon events (These events are not University, a private internship practice in psychotherapy, and has done conflict manage­ assigned and you may attend more than one but your indication helps us ment for seven years. plan appropriate space and determine level of interest) B-2 Making Connections through Writing --Personal writing has the capacity to heal and transform. Learn ways to use writing to create an inner dialogue connecting body, Number only 2 or 3 preferences mind, and spirit. Explore personal writing rituals tocreat e ways to gently nourish and heal. Dances of Universal Peace .Energy alignment .Beijing tape and discussion Susan Borkin. M.A.T is a licensed marriage and family therapist in Los Altos. She Lift your Voice w/ Betsy Rose has 17 years experience as a consultant, writer, and trainer in writing for personal growth. Connect on the Internet .Reiki treatment (small fee) She is the author of Writing from the Inside Out and has taught journal workshops. Accupressure Meditation Booths and relaxation B-3 Connecting with Praver in our Daily Lives —Many would like todevelo p a rhythm .Seated Massage ofa daily "spiritual practice" but find the busyness of our days leaves little time. This will take the approach of giving ourselves permission to "pray as we can, not as we can't". Be sure to complete the other side>»» Pamela Bjorklund. PhD, of San Jose is a spiritual director and licensed psychothera­ Mail to Gathering, CWN, 877 Spinosa Dr., Sunnyvale, CA 94087 pist. She teaches in the graduate program in pastoral ministries and the counseling V (Check or money order. No credit cards.) M psychology and education departments at Santa Clara University. Page 16 May/June 1996, Catholic Women's NETWORK Catholic Women's Network invites you to our Fourth Annual Gathering

Women Connecting:t Schedule % 8:00- 9:00 am Registration and hospitality 8:30 Make scarves and form procession %ody/MincC/Spirit 9:00-10:00 am Opening ritual in gym 10:15 - 12:00 Morning Session A a day of spiritual nourishment & personal growth 12:00-2:00 pm Lunch, booths, healing demon­ strations and experiences Saturday, June 22,1996 12:00--1 pm Hospitality Room - a place to 8 am to 4:30 pm meet and lunch with others Archbishop Mitty High School 12:45 • 1:45 Dances of Universal Peace 5000 Mitty Way, San Jose, CA 95129 1:00- 1:40 Singing with Betsy Rose 2:00 - 3:45 Afternoon Session B $35 before May 24 • $45 after May 24 4:00 - 4:30 Closing ritual in the gym Gathering Ritual k J Join in the opening and closing rituals where we will be invited to Registration Information embodied prayer... to move and be moved, to dance and be danced by the Spirit of this day. To the sounds of percussion, chimes, music, and song, we • Confirmation of registration will be sent on June 14 to those will create the sacred space. who enclose a self-addressed stamped business size envelope. Our personal and collective histories become extraordinary as we remember body, mind, and spirit — past, present, and future. In the ceremony • Please save this form for directions and map. we will use personalized fabric scarves to symbolize our lives — "entwined in a • Plan to pick up your registration packet between tapestry of grace." 8 - 8:30 am on June 22 near the cafeteria at Mitty. In our uniqueness, each of us can supply threads that strengthen the Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis for workshops. whole. We will become spinners, consciously and actively weaving our sacred Most sessions will accommodate 30-35 women with a few accommodating more. intentions into the dream of wholeness for ourselves and each other. Registration at the door on June 22 will be accepted only if space remains. We will gather at 8:30 am to select and personalize colorful scarves, form an entrance procession, and move, chanting and drumming, Lunch: You may bring a brown bag lunch or order a bag lunch ofa sandwich into the ritual space. Seating will be available, but many may find it unneces­ or salad, drink, cookies and fresh fruit. Cold drinks will be available for $.50 for sary to sit during the ritual at all. Dancing, spinning, and connecting will brown baggers. Coffee, juice, muffins and cookies are free. provide magical moments. The closing ritual will include a weaving dance by Reduced Rates: Available for all who find the cost too much. Call CWN all. or just send in what you feel you can comfortably pay. If you need a full Wear casual clothes, flat shoes, and maybe a backpack for your scholarship, please call 408/245-8663. possessions so you can have your arms free for movement. Bring a small drum, bells, tambourine, or jangling bracelets for the opening procession. Bring a rhythm maker on June 22... Noon Events and Connections * Please wear comfortable clothes and flat shoes. * Use a shoulder strap purse or backpack for your goods so * Connect with other traditions through the Dances of Universal Peace led by you can have your hands free for movement. Nancy Norris * Connect with all creation while singing with composer Betsy Rose All events are included in the registration fee. * The Healing Connection -Take part in demonstrations which include your participation in Personalized reiki and reflexology sessions will be available * Accupressure Meditation or Seated Massage led by Pat Cane during lunch and following for a small fee. * Energy alignment with Vivian Arrizon-Lopez (Cancellation fee of $5 will be withheld from refunds. * Visit a healing station for reiki or reflexology Refunds must be requested by June 20 in writing.) * Connect with the Internet or healing through aromatherapy Parking Information * Visit the hospitality room if you want someone to share lunch with • Please carpool if possible. Parking exists on both sides of the high school Park first in the * Visit our booths for books, ritual items or handmade gifts of spiritual value. lot by the gym (right side of schoool as you enter). Latecomers will have to park on left side of school which is a longer walk to registration area. • Handicapped parking will be reserved next to the gym. Carpooling Info Registration Form Outside Santa Clara County: If you need a ride or want to carpool with someone from your area, call CWN between June 10-15 for names of others fromyou r area. 408/245-8663. r .Please complete both sides ^ Archbishop Mitty High School Name 5000 Mitty Way, San Jose, CA 95129 Fremont/Oakland Write or print clearly please Street #680 CHy. State _Zip_

Home phone San Fran

Enclosed is my registration fee - $35 before May 24 $. $45 after May 24 $_ (Call or send note if aid is requested —pay what you can afford) Lunch: Turkey sandwich, drink, fruit, cookies $6_ Vegetarian Pasta salad, roll, drink, fruit, cookies $ 6_ (Lunches must be ordered in advance— or bring your own.) Guroy The fee is reasonable for me - here is a donation to fund a scholarship for someone $ Directions: All highways lead to #280. From east: From #680. #880. # 17 or # 101 from Gilrov. get onto #280 going to San Total enclosed $_ Francisco. Take Lawrence Expressway Exit (this can be a confusing exit.) Turn I want a reminder. Enclosed is a self-addressed stamped left at Stevens Creek, go under two underpasses, then left on Calvert. (Watch for business size envelope to send me a reminder on June 14. _ signs to Lawrence Expressway.) Follow Calvert through the Stevens Creek I need handicapped parking. _ intercession, then right on Lawrence going south. Watch for quick left on Mitty Way. (See dotted lines on map.) CWN needs some help From the San Francisco/Palo Alto: Take the Exit that says Stevens Creek/ Lawrence Expressway. Drive straight through the Stevens Creek intercession, I can work the Registration table from 8-9 am then right on Lawrence Expressway South and watch for the firstquic k left on M itty I can work in CWN sales booth 8-9 am 12-1 pm 1-2 Way. I can hostess between 8-9 am Take second right into school property. Parking lots on are each side of I can help decorate the ritual space or prepare classrooms on the school. Right side lot is closest to registration and will have reserved disabled Friday afternoon evening (June 21) parking closest to gym. Disabled parking is also on the left ofthe school but walk I can bring muffins .for the morning (deliver by 8 am) is farther. Check space on registration form so we know how many to reserve. or cookies for lunch. Enter the front ofthe school and drive around to the right to the parking If you are needed, you will be notified in advance. We often get more offers lot. Overflow parking will be in the lot to the left ofthe school. than we need. For all your support, we are grateful. Please carpool if possible. V Be sure to complete both sides of this form. J