THE CATHOLIC MIRROR Vol. 53, No. 12 December 20, 2019 Bishops to meet with pope, fellow Stepping out in faith bishops during Young Des Moines couple trust in God’s timing “ad limina” By Kelly Mescher Collins Staff Writer Visit includes meetings with departments of the Holy See Just months after getting mar- ried, Mary and Seth Sojka of the Ba- silica of St. John Parish in Des Moines were faced with a major life decision – By Kelly Mescher Collins adoption. Staff Writer Mary’s nephew Roland was in the foster care system in California be- Bishop William Joensen will be in cause his mother (Mary’s sister) was in Jan. 12-18 for an “ad limina” visit at prison because of drug addiction. the Vatican. If the couple chose not to take Designed to occur every five Roland, he would be adopted by some- years, the “ad limina” includes a meeting one in California, losing all ties to blood with Pope Francis and offices of the Holy relatives. See to review the state of the diocese and Since his birth he and his two receive feedback. older brothers were often homeless with Bishop Emeritus her. will attend; he wrote and directed the Adoption was a big decision preparation of the report before retiring. for a young couple that had been mar- Bishop Emeritus is unable ried only six months, Mary conceded, to attend. but she and Seth wanted to give God “Ad limina” is a Latin term their “yes.” “which translated conveys the notion of a They pursued Roland for over pilgrimage to the threshold of the tombs a year, finally bringing him home in Jan- of the apostles St. Peter and Paul,” said uary 2018. Bishop Pates. “The bishops are invited to “Roland was unfortunately renew their commitment to the mission of most affected by [the situation], but you the Apostles, particularly in our unity and would never know it,” Mary said. “He’s collaboration with the current successor of all smiles. I went to school with him Peter – Pope Francis.” and everyone knows Roland’s name – The visit follows the Vatican’s the little kids, the teachers. He is truly a receipt of the diocesan quinquennial, a 90- joy to this world.” page report containing information and sta- Roland’s two older brothers, tistics on the diocese, organized according Wayne and Cyrus, are foster children to a template established by the Church. and being raised by their grandparents (Quinquennial means every five years.) Kim and Rand Lehman of All Saints Sections of the quinquennial Parish in Des Moines. would have been divided and sent to the All three boys attend St. Pius corresponding dicastery (or department of X in Urbandale. They Seth and Mary Sojka with daughter Zelda and son Roland the day of the Roman Curia) for review, said Mon- know they are brothers and Kim, Mary their baptism at the Basilica of St. John Parish in Des Moines with signor Steve Orr, a retired diocesan priest and Seth ensure all three spend quality Father Aquinas Nichols. who helped prepare the quinquennial re- time together. is a ministry many are not willing to family and take on the father figure role ports for Bishop Maurice Dingman and Seth and Mary admit early on take on because it’s a huge cross and a so early in their marriage. Bishop Charron. it was difficult caring for Roland, but it huge sacrifice. We had it easier, because “He truly took on a cross and “The quinquennial report is orga- was definitely the right decision. he was family, though we had a lot of he has grown immensely,” Mary said. nized according to the mission of a partic- “I won’t say it was easy, be- trauma and difficulties.” “He has taken on the dad role like none ular dicastery, and individual sections are cause they’ve had a lot of trauma and Mary was thankful for Seth’s other. And he just loves Roland and he is reviewed by each of them,” Bishop Pates have not been through the best circum- willingness to bring Roland into the said. stances in life,” Mary said. “Foster care Continued on page 11 Bishop Joensen received a copy of the report before his ordination and in- stallation as the 10th bishop of the Diocese of Des Moines. Vietnamese priest dies at age 62 “The report was tremendously helpful in giving a comprehensive over- view of the diocese, its people and minis- Long vocation journey led refugee to ters with all the human and other resources at its disposal,” Bishop Joensen said. “It Bien Hoa Province of South Vietnam, the highlights how the Church of Des Moines By Anne Marie Cox eldest of seven children. is engaged with, and influenced by, the cul- Staff Writer He was a seminarian of the Dio- tural demographics in southwest Iowa in cese of Dong nai from 1969-1987. recent years.” Father Tan Van Tran, who served In 1975, Saigon fell to commu- The two-hour meeting with Pope parishes and in hospital chaplaincy, died nists. All seminaries were forced to close. Francis and the other Region IX bishops peacefully in his sleep on Dec. 10. He was Father Tan made the courageous decision 62. Continued on page 12 Continued on page 11 Father Tan was born and raised in Father Tan Tran died Dec. 10. 2 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 Unmuted mystery Misterio inmutado

When the priest Zechari- gaged, is to miss Cuando el sacerdote Zacarías, Dios inscrita en verdaderas vidas humanas ah, husband of Elizabeth and even- the inherent pow- esposo de Isabel y eventual padre de Juan – tanto como para aquellos que predican By tual father of John the Baptist, first er of the word of el Bautista, tuvo su primer encuentro con como para aquellos que en veces pueden Bishop encounters the angel in the sanctu- God. The Word el ángel en el santuario y escuchó que si en ocasiones distanciarse pero que deci- William ary and hears that his aging wife is made flesh is the esposa de edad avanzada se iba a embaraz- den vivir en la fe – nos presiona a cumplir Joensen to become pregnant, he is at first essence of the ar, de primera instancia se muestra dudoso como Dios lo considera adecuado. El tra- reluctant to believe this good news. Gospel; the Incar- a creer las buenas noticias. Y por lo tanto bajo de Dios puede retrasarse por faltas o And so the archangel Gabriel tells nation of God’s el arcángel Gabriel le dice que se quedará inconsistencias humanas, pero al final no him he will remain speechless for Son means that sin hablar hasta el nacimiento de su hijo, será sofocado, ya que carga con la energía his lack of good faith until his son is born our humanity, weak and wounded, is both debido a su falta de fe (ver Lucas 1:18-20). y potencial que comunica el Dios vivo, (see Luke 1:18-20). In effect, the priest has the medium and message by which God De hecho, el sacerdote ha enmudecido por quien nos conoce mejor de lo que nos con- himself muted the mysterious workings of speaks to us all the time. We don’t need to sí mismo las maravillosas obras de Dios, ocemos a nosotros mismos. God, squelching the proclamation of good get the latest phone or device at Christmas sofocando la proclamación de la buena En cierto sentido, ¡la Iglesia no news. to be able to grasp and interpret what our nueva. puede ayudarse a sí misma! El Verbo que There are at least a couple reasons ears and hearts are already “programmed to Existen por lo menos un par de nace es la causa misma de la existencia why a contemporary “muting of the mys- receive.” The Word of God inscribed in real razones de por qué se ha llevado un “en- misma de la Iglesia; como resultado, he- tery” has taken place. One, in the wake of human lives—both those who preach and in mudecimiento del misterio” contemporá- mos sido bautizados y nombrados admin- neo. Uno, cuando comenzaron a relucir los istradores de un misterio que, a pesar de the disclosures of clergy abuse of minors those who may wonder at times but choose casos de abuso del clero contra menores, ser sumergido en el mar de palabras que and other acts of failed oversight by the to live by faith—presses on to fulfillment así como otros casos en que faltó la vig- nos rodea, y que repica un llamado que re- Church’s pastors, some persons in society as God sees fit. The Lord’s work may be ilancia de los pastores de la Iglesia, algu- suena profundamente en el alma de quien- and even in the Church think that priests and delayed by human failing or inconsistency, nas personas en la sociedad e incluso en quiera que desee acogerlo en su corazón, bishops have compromised their authority but will not ultimately be frustrated, for it la Iglesia piensan que los sacerdotes y los sin importar la temporada del año. to preach and teach in matters of faith and bears an energy and potential communicated obispos has comprometido su autoridad Los sacerdotes y obispos, cada morals—or even forfeited their authority by the living God, who knows us better than para predicar y enseñar sobre asuntos de la vez que se presentan ante su pueblo, están outright. How can a priest speak credibly to we know ourselves. fe y moralidad – o que incluso han renun- profundamente conscientes de sus propias issues of social justice—such as respect for In a certain sense, the Church can’t ciado a su autoridad por completo. ¿Cómo imperfecciones y de cómo sus propias the dignity of persons, including women and help herself! The Word who is born is the puede un sacerdote hablar con credibilidad vidas están sujetas a las medidas de las children, the option for the poor and most very cause of the Church’s own coming-to- respecto a problemas de justicia social – palabras que ellos proclaman. Como ob- vulnerable, the bonds of solidarity rooted be; as a result, we have been baptized and tal como el respeto a la dignidad de las servaba el Cardenal Avery Dulles, “Cada in families where life is generated through appointed stewards of a mystery that despite personas, incluyendo mujeres y niños, las predicador se predica a sí mismo.” Veo the love of husband and wife, and the pur- being drowned in the sea of words around opciones para los pobres y para los más que San Simeón es un amigo de las almas suit of a common good dependent on mutual us, rings with a clear bell tone that resonates vulnerables, los lazos de solidaridad que cuando declara: “Deseo permanecer calla- respect—when some of the brethren have deep within the soul of anyone who takes it tienen raíces en las familias que es donde do – si solo hubiera podido hacerlo – pero undermined trust and muddied the appeal of to heart, whatever the season. se genera la vida por medio del amor en- tan gran maravilla hace que mi corazón these values by their wayward example? Priests and bishops, every time tre un esposo y una esposa, así como la lata más rápido, y abre boca, mi imperfec- Second, those to whom the they stand before their people, are keenly búsqueda del bien común que depende del ta boca, y me hacer hablar a pesar de mí Church’s pastors preach—even when priests aware of their own imperfections and how respeto mutuo – cuando algunos de sus mismo.” and bishops live upright lives—may be dis- their lives are measured by the very words colegas han ignorado la confianza y en- Cuando hablamos de nuestros tracted or disinterested on account of the they proclaim. As Cardinal Avery Dulles turbiado el valor de estos valores con su jóvenes que buscan palabras que sean lo default static introduced by their ambivalent observed: “Every preacher preaches to him- vergonzoso ejemplo? suficientemente valiosas en las cuales faith, their willed unbelief. Pope Francis self.” I find St. Symeon to be a soul compan- Segundo, aquellos a quien los basar su vida, ¿qué tanto más dependemos acknowledges that for many young people, ion when he declares: “I wish to be silent—if pastores de la Iglesia predican – incluso de los laicos bautizados, padres de familia “God, religion and the Church seem empty only I had been able to—but the tremendous en donde los sacerdotes y obispos llevan y compañeros de trabajo, quienes ejercen words,” and hence “do not ask the Church marvel causes my heart to beat faster, and vidas ejemplares—muchos se distraen o su propia vocación sacerdotal cuando tra- for anything. . . “ except “to be left alone, as opens my mouth, my tainted mouth, and pierden interés debido a la estática preva- ducen la palabra de Dios en las Escrituras, they find the presence of the Church a nui- makes me speak in spite of myself.” lente a que les lleva su fe ambivalente y la compartiéndola, en conversaciones per- sance, even an irritant” (Christ is Alive, n. When it comes to our young people incredulidad voluntaria. El Papa Francisco sonales, en dar testimonio de fe con sus 39). looking for words worth hanging their lives reconoce que, para muchos jóvenes “Dios, propias vidas dondequiera que hablen o Yet to dismiss the preaching of the upon, how much more do we rely upon bap- la religión y la Iglesia parece palabras se reúnan? Si se presenta un embarazo no Gospel, including the message of Christmas tized lay persons, parents and peers alike, vacías,” y por lo tanto “no piden nada de la planeado, como les sucedió a Zacarías y that “today has been born for you a savior who exercise their own priestly vocation Iglesia…” excepto “que los dejen en paz, a Isabel, ¿cómo podemos dudar que Dios, who is both Messiah and Lord,” based on when they translate God’s word in scripture ya que sienten que la presencia en la Ig- que ha permitido que se milagro se re- flawed witness or annoyance at being en- sharing, in personal conversations held in lesia es una molesta, e incluso irritante.” alice, no vaya a abrir la puerta a recursos trust, in witnessing to faith by lives where (Cristo está Vivo, n. 39). de amor y de apoyo material en las comu- what they say and do hang together? If an Aún así, el desechar la prédica del nidades que se observan el misterio de la unexpected pregnancy occurs, as it did for Evangelio, incluyendo el mensaje de Nav- Navidad como algo más que un sentimien- idad en que “hoy le ha nacido un salvador to, como algo más que la oportunidad de Zechariah and Elizabeth, how can we doubt que es ambos Mesías y Señor,” en base a dar y recibir cosas? THE CATHOLIC that God who has allowed this miracle to testimonios inconsistentes o la molestia de Más que nunca, los Cristianos happen will not also unlock the resources estar involucrado, es perderse del poder Católicos necesitan ser más atrevidos que of love and material support in communi- inherente de la palabra de Dios. El Verbo solamente ir a la iglesia en Navidad y con- ties who take the mystery of Christmas to be hecho carne es la esencia del Evangelio; siderarlo como una responsabilidad cum- MIRROR more than a feeling, more than the chance to la encarnación del Hijo de Dios significa plida; necesitamos inmutar las palabras get and give stuff? Bishop William Joensen que nuestra humanidad, débil y quebran- del Verbo que es Jesús. Nosotros necesi- More than ever, we Catholic Chris- tada, es a la vez el medio y el mensaje por tamos dejar que el misterio de su venida Publisher tians need to be bolder than going to church el cual Dios nos habla todo el tiempo. No entre nosotros como un ser humano igual [email protected] on Christmas and calling it a day; we need to necesitamos el teléfono o instrumento más que nosotros en todo aspecto excepto en unmute the words from the Word who is Je- moderno esta Navidad para poder cap- el pecado, sea la buena nueva de la que Anne Marie Cox sus. We need to let the mystery of his com- turar e interpretar los que nuestros oídos no podemos guardarnos: “¡Venid y adoré- Editor ing among us as a human like us in all things y nuestros corazones están previamente mosle!” [email protected] but sin be the good news we can’t keep to “programados a recibir.” La Palabra de ourselves: “Come, let us adore him!” Kelly Mescher Collins Staff Writer Tune in to [email protected] Making it Personal with Bishop Joensen The Catholic Mirror (ISSN 0896-6869) is published Heard every Friday morning at 9 a.m. on monthly for $20 per year by the Diocese of Des Moines, 601 Grand Ave., Des Moines, Iowa Catholic Radio Iowa 50309. Periodicals post- 1150 am | 88.5 fm | 94.5 fm or stream at age paid at Des Moines. POSTMASTER: Send changes www.IowaCatholicRadio.com to THE CATHOLIC MIR- ROR, 601 Grand Ave., Des Spirit Catholic Radio Network Bishop Joensen wants to hear from you! Moines, Iowa 50309. 102.7 FM PHONE: (515)237-5046 How has your faith been impacted recently? EMAIL: mirror@dmdiocese. Upcoming topics: org Text us at 515-223-1150 using #Bishop and Dec. 20 - Gary Dolphin, voice of the Hawkeyes DIOCESAN WEBSITE: he may talk about it on an upcoming show! www.dmdiocese.org Jan. 3 - Bishop , Diocese of Davenport www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 3 Parishes celebrate feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Hispanic communities commemorate Mary’s appearance to Juan Diego in Mexico in 1531

Photo by Anne Marie Cox Hundreds of faithful parade from Our Lady of the Americas Church to St. Ambrose Cathedral Dec. 11 for a Mass on the eve of the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Humility is one of the most central dose a un indígeno que en ese tiempo Hispanic Ministry values ​​we should have as Catholics. Our Lady Nuestra Señora de Guada- no tenían valor importante. of Guadalupe teaches us that pride and selfish- lupe es una figura fundamental en la Luego, Nuestra Señora de ness is something we should avoid. Our Lady fe católica y su vida ejemplifica cómo Guadalupe apareció en una manera of Guadalupe remained humble, appearing to nuestro Padre Todopoderoso trabaja en muy simple; su manto, su vestido, su an Indian who at that time period had no sig- nuestras vidas. cinta, y el cabello suelto. nificant value. El origen de la Virgen de Gua- Nuestro mundo pone la rique- Then, Our Lady of Guadalupe ap- dalupe se remonta al 12 de diciembre za material sobre todo lo demás, nos By Bibiana Lemus peared in a very simple way; her cloak, her de 1531, en Tepeyac, que se encuentra ciegan los pasatiempos materiales y dress, her belt, and her hair down. en las afueras de la Ciudad de México, modas; la última tecnología, los ve- Our Lady of Guadalupe is a fundamental Our world puts material wealth above un indígena llamado Juan Diego tuvo hículos lujosos, la ropa de marca, y figure in the Catholic faith and her life exem- all else. Material and fashion pastimes, the una aparición de la Virgen de Guada- tendencias de moda actuales. Aun- plifies how our almighty Father works in our latest technology, luxury vehicles, name brand lupe en ropa azteca. La Virgen le pidió que no hay nada de malo en disfrutar lives. clothing and current fashion trends blind us. en su lengua indígena que fuera a de- de todo esto, es fundamental recordar The Virgin of Guadalupe dates back Although there is nothing wrong cirle al obispo que le construyera un que el consumo de estas pertenencias to Tepeyac, which is located in the suburbs of with enjoying all this, it is essential to remem- santuario. Juan Diego fue y le dijo al puede distraernos de Dios. Nos hace Mexico City. On Dec. 12, 1531, an indigenous ber that the consumption of these belongings obispo sobre la aparición y la solicitud, creer que la verdadera satisfacción se man named Juan Diego saw an apparition of can distract us from God. It makes us believe pero no le creyó y exigió una prueba. puede encontrar en el mundo físico the Virgin of Guadalupe in Aztec clothing. true satisfaction can be found in the physical Entonces la Virgen reapareció ante más que en lo espiritual. The Virgin asked Juan in his indig- world rather than in the spiritual. Juan Diego y le ordenó recoger rosas. Por último, pero no menos enous language to tell the bishop to build a Last but not least, charity. This value Juan llevó las rosas al obispo y cuando importante, la caridad, este valor está sanctuary. is at the heart of everything Our Lady of Gua- abrió su timal, docenas de rosas cay- en el corazón de todo lo que hizo Nues- Juan Diego went and told the bishop dalupe did. Being a mother of all America im- eron al suelo y revelaron la imagen de tra Señora de Guadalupe. Ser madre de about the apparition and the request, but the plies being charitable and extremely generous la Virgen de Guadalupe impresa en el todo América implica ser caritativo y bishop did not believe Juan and demanded in your own actions. interior. extremadamente generoso en las pro- proof. The story of Our Lady of Guadalupe Cuando pienso en las difer- pias acciones. Nuestra Señora de Gua- Then, the Virgin reappeared before should encourage us to adopt these values ​​in entes formas en que ella ha influido en dalupe debe aspirar a que adoptemos Juan Diego and ordered him to collect roses. our own lives and in the way we treat others. mi fe, pienso en la humildad, la sim- estos valores en nuestras propias vidas Juan took the roses to the bishop, and when Our Lady of Guadalupe is a perfect plicidad y la caridad. La humildad es y en la forma en que tratamos a los he opened his cloak dozens of roses fell to the and beautiful example of how God can trans- uno de los valores más centrales que demás. ground and revealed the image of the Virgin of form us from ordinary people to extraordinary debemos tener como católicos. Nuestra Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe Guadalupe printed inside. people. Señora de Guadalupe nos enseña que el es un ejemplo perfecto y hermoso de When I think of the different ways in orgullo y el egoísmo es algo que debe- cómo Dios puede transformarnos de which she has influenced my faith, I think of Bibiana Lemus is a parishioner of mos evitar. Nuestra Señora de Guada- personas comunes a personas extraor- humility, simplicity and charity. Corpus Christi Parish in Council Bluffs. lupe permaneció humilde aparecién- dinarias.

Photo by Corpus Christi Hispanic Ministry Dancers at the Our Lady of Guadalupe cele- Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrations at Corpus brations at Sacred Heart Parish in West Des Christi Parish in Council Bluffs. Moines.

Photo by Anne Marie Cox Children dressed as St. Juan Diego at St. Am- brose Cathedral. 4 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 OPINION Actions speak loudly when it comes to love

One of the many things I look say, “a look of appreciation has enormous portant, because genuine happiness and forward to during the Christmas season is Marriage & importance, and to begrudge it is usually fulfilment are always fruits of love. driving around with my family and looking Family Life hurtful. How many things do spouses and So as we end Advent and cele- at Christmas lights. children sometimes do in order to be no- brate Christmas, let’s take a few moments We usually get hot chocolate for ticed!” (128) to slow down and really see each other. To the kids, crank up some Christmas music, Actually, seeing someone takes cultivate the “gaze” of love, which lets us and always stop at a few favorite spots. time, because we need to be willing to fo- truly attend to each other. By (Props go to The First Church of the Open cus on the person before us, and not just Another invitation of this season Bible in Des Moines, for a light and music Adam Storey the many tasks on our to-do list. is to take the time to be seen, to receive the show which always captivates my kids!) Seeing another person takes a de- gaze of love that Jesus extends to all of us. Francis’ invitation to really see each other, During this season, there is plen- nial of self, as I have to free myself from which he extends in his apostolic exhor- ty to see and do. We have Christmas lights my own priorities, thoughts and worries tation The Joy of Love (Amoris Laetitia). and decorations, there are office parties and be willing to attend to the other. Adam Storey is the diocesan director Pope Francis observes that the “experience and family gatherings, there is gift plan- Put another way, seeing each oth- of Marriage & Family Life. He can be of love is expressed in that ‘gaze’ which ning and giving. er is not just passive, but it takes an active reached at [email protected] or contemplates other persons and ends in It can feel like a sensory over- decision to love. 515-237-5056. themselves” (AL 128) and he goes on to load, and that got me thinking of Pope It’s hard work, and yet it’s so im-

Not all gifts come in shiny packages

I was kickboxing at my gym the Friday before Thanksgiving last year. While performing a common Guest Column move called a switch kick, I heard a loud noise that sounded like a whip cracking, and my left leg seemed to fly out from underneath me. I fell to the ground, dumb- founded. It felt like someone had whacked the back of my leg with a rod, but turning around proved no one was there. By Kelly By the grace of God, I felt just a Mescher Collins mild burning sensation in my swollen and Thanksgiving buffet line, asking me what purpling ankle – no real pain. But I knew she should put on my plate. something was not right. My body had Jason fetched my drinks, brought seemingly failed me. me an ice pack, meds and books as I re- I decided to call my husband, Ja- covered from surgery at home. He became son, to bring me to the emergency room. my caretaker – setting up a shower bench, That was the beginning of seeing listening to my concerns and screwing Jesus at work in others who helped me that ice tips onto my crutches as the weather night and throughout the months to come. changed and snow and ice moved in. Friends rushed to grab my cell While sleeping, he often dodged phone, jacket and shoes as I sat waiting. my hard, plastic oversized boot and was My friend Rob stayed by my side and now the only one capable of carrying our helped my husband get me into the truck. small, elderly dog outside to use the bath- At the ER, medical staff deter- room umpteen times a night. mined I had likely ruptured my Achilles Things got scary about a week tendon and would need surgery. I was after my surgery when a blood clot was stunned. discovered at our second trip to the ER. The following Monday at the sur- I was quickly put on blood thinners, and geon’s office, I learned I would be spend- I thanked God it was caught early. I saw ing at least six weeks on crutches and could kindness and concern in the eyes of doctors do no high impact activity for six months. and pharmacists. I would also need several months of physi- Jason willingly hauled up the Kelly Mescher Collins’ sister Jody Geest of St. Luke Parish in Ankeny cal therapy. Christmas tree and loads of totes filled with created this “gingerbread Kelly” at their girls’ Christmas baking weekend As a longtime runner and kick- decorations so we – okay, he – could fill the last year. boxing enthusiast, this was very bad news. house with some much needed Christmas It also meant I would spend talk” started creeping in about my recov- and running. I’ve even been eyeing po- cheer. ery and regaining my strength. But I soon tential half-marathons and marathons for months separated from my community of My sister Amy hosted a girls’ friends (my “workout family”) that I so en- identified and rejected these lies and their 2020. Christmas baking weekend and my sister source. (John 8:44: When he tells a lie, he And I’ve actually even grown to joyed and saw almost daily. Jody became my “baking buddy,” carrying The morning of surgery – the day speaks in character, because he is a liar and like the big vertical scar on the back of my my pans of cookies to and from the oven. the father of lies.) ankle – it reminds me of all I’ve overcome. before Thanksgiving – Jason and I went to She even made a “gingerbread Kelly” fit 7 a.m. Mass at St. Francis Parish in West The evil one’s whisper campaign Physically, I feel just as strong with crutches, a boot and blonde hair. We on me had begun, and he would have rel- as I did before the accident. Mentally and Des Moines and I received an anointing of all laughed when she texted photos to fam- the sick from Father Trevor Chicoine be- ished a downward spiral of depression and spiritually, I’m stronger. ily members who couldn’t make it. I felt despair about my situation. (John 10:10: A The Bible says, “Consider it all fore heading to outpatient surgery. their love, care and concern. My surgeon told me later my thief comes only to steal and slaughter and joy, my brothers, when you encounter var- At Mass, the priests and Eucharis- destroy….) ious trials, for you know that the testing of Achilles tendon was shredded and looked tic ministers happily came to the back of like two mops that he sutured back togeth- My trust was in God though. And your faith produces perseverance. And let the church to bring me communion. I knew all things were possible through perseverance be perfect, so that you may er. I knew God was at work in his skilled Coworkers and friends at the hands. him. be perfect and complete, lacking in noth- Catholic Pastoral Center were generous, My physical therapist seemed ing.” (James 1: 2-4) I spent our family’s Thanksgiving kind and helped me in a variety of ways, on my sister Amy’s living room couch with happy about my recovery, giving me much I would have strongly disagreed including filling and carrying my water hope. And in early April, I returned to my last Christmas, but now I am actually my foot propped up, iced and on a regular bottle, making Walgreens runs and offering rotation of painkillers. kickboxing classes, though with many thankful for all I went through and view it encouragement and support. modifications for the first month. By early as a gift. Though this was something I Moments of darkness rose to the definitely did not want, it allowed others June, I was given a plan to very slowly re- surface, particularly as I found online sto- turn to running. to serve me. And in those moments of ser- ries of people with Achilles ruptures who vice, I saw Jesus. My appreciation for my body and Kelly Mescher Collins is multimedia never fully recovered. what it can do has increased profoundly. I journalist for the Diocese of Des Moines It was not always easy. I felt like Some seriously negative “self- a child as my sister walked through the have a renewed enthusiasm for kickboxing and writer for The Catholic Mirror. www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 5 Ask a Priest Iowans for LIFE to march in capitol, begin

Q. In Protestant traditions the In any case, faith and battle for constitutional amendment minister does everything. Why liturgical participation are big- is it that we Catholics have so ger than our juggling of num- th many of the laity involved? bers. Young people from across U.S. to attend 45 March for Life in January Religion is not well A. Some Protestants would served if we think in terms of By Kelly Mescher Collins take issue with your statement “marketing.” Jesus began with Staff Writer that the minister “does every- only twelve. If we live our faith thing.” rather than just speak it, others When three Iowans for will want to join us. And we must be care- LIFE buses depart Des Moines ful about putting all Protestants Q. I’m a communion minister Jan. 24 for the annual March for into one group. There are wide at my parish. I feel honored to Life in Washington, D.C., they’ll differences among non-Catho- serve in this role. Some people be focused on prayer, education lic Christians. want to receive communion in and witnessing for life. If it seems that some- the mouth rather than in their Libby Smith, a junior at times “the minister does ev- hand. I find it difficult to place Dowling Catholic High School in erything,” it might be because the host in their mouth some- West Des Moines and co-presi- some of those congregations times, and when I do, I often get dent of the Students of Life club, are smaller in numbers than my fingers damp from their sa- will be making her first pilgrim- many Catholic parishes. liva. This doesn’t seem terribly age to the march. sanitary. Can you comment? “I’m looking forward Caitlyn Dixson, Jeanne Wells, Vickie Vorwald and Maggie In any case, ministry to the youth rally. I saw the list A. the Church gives people DeWitte, executive director of Iowans for LIFE, at the March is the responsibility of every of speakers and I was so excited Christian, not just those or- the option of receiving in the for Life in Washington, D.C. last year. mouth or in the hand. that Abby Johnson will be there,” dained. Smith said of the former Planned may not be enforced. a quick or easy process. Q. How do we get younger I share your concern Parenthood employee who be- The Iowa Supreme “The only way to undo people involved in the Church’s about cleanliness when people came a nationally recognized Court stated “a woman’s right this is a constitutional amend- ministries? received in the mouth. opponent of abortion. “I’ve seen to decide whether to terminate a ment,” DeWitte said. “In order to the Unplanned movie and loved it pregnancy is a fundamental right pass that constitutional amend- A. I wouldn’t limit it to To me, it seems more and I’m really excited to see her under the Iowa Constitution.” ment it has to pass two consecu- younger people. Maybe this natural to look at the communi- speak.” The Iowa Supreme tive legislative sessions. We have will help. Jesus taught adults cant in the eye and share with She’s also looking for- Court also struck down a man- to get it passed this January and and played with the chil- them the Body of Christ. Nei- ward to marching with thousands datory 72 hour waiting period for [next year’s] session and then a dren. Too often, we teach the ther form of receiving is more of fellow pro-lifers from across women seeking an abortion. vote goes to the people. So this children and play (bingo?) with or less reverent. the United States and the solidari- DeWitte said the judg- is a multi-year process and really the adults. ty she’ll find amongst her peers. es overstepped their bounds and our only option.” I think children react “You know you’re not “legislated from the bench.” The outlook is grim for positively or negatively to the the only one fighting for it,” she Their ruling now makes the unborn if Iowa doesn’t pass behavior of their parents. said. abortion a right on par with free- the constitutional amendment. Parents serve as a Got a question for “Ask a While marching, they’ll dom of speech and freedom of re- If Roe v Wade is over- model to their children when Priest” and its author, Father also be thinking about the work ligion, DeWitte continued. turned, abortion law goes back they are involved in their par- John Ludwig? ahead in Iowa, said Maggie De- “They created a funda- to the states, DeWitte said. “We ish. Witte, executive director of Io- mental right to abortion…,” De- could become the abortion mecca. If parents have a strong Send it to: wans for LIFE. Witte added. “If you have a fun- We would be just like New York connection to the Church, their communications@dmdiocese. In January 2019, the damental right, you can’t restrict and Illinois (where abortions are children often do as well. org. heartbeat law was struck down by it or limit it in any way.” permitted up until birth.) We real- a state judge who ruled the law vi- Iowans for LIFE is al- ly have to get this done.” olates the Iowa Constitution and ready at work, though it won’t be

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210 R 63 HWY — INDIANOLA, IOWA 515.961.3026 — [email protected] 6 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 Around the Diocese Catholic Charities assists Dec. 20 Friday divorce or separation are encouraged needy during the holidays Beginning Experience to gain the support of Beginning Ex- Jan. 17-19 DES MOINES – Those perience at an open house, 7-8:30 Retreat who have lost a spouse through death, p.m. at St. Augustin Church. Contact PANORA – Those who divorce or separation are encouraged Father Bob Schoemann at 515-418- have lost a loved one through death, to gain the support of Beginning Ex- 1938, Daryl Stahl at 515-480-6617, divorce or separation are encour- perience at an open house, 7-8:30 or Dana Reed at 515-975-3745. aged to come to terms with that loss p.m. at St. Augustin Church. Contact and begin to move forward with the Father Bob Schoemann at 515-418- Jan. 5 Sunday support of Beginning Experience at 1938, Daryl Stahl at 515-480-6617, Country Style Breakfast a weekend program at St. Thomas or Dana Reed at 515-975-3745. INDIANOLA – The Indi- More Center. Contact Father Bob anola Knights from St. Thomas Aqui- Schoemann at 515-418-1938, Daryl Dec. 22 Sunday nas Parish will be hosting a country Stahl at 515-480-6617, or Dana Reed Drake Choir style breakfast from 9 a.m. to 12:30 at 515-975-3745. DES MOINES – A Drake p.m. at the parish hall. $5/Adults and University alumni choir called Umeri carry-outs, $3/children (6 to 12), free Feb. 8 Saturday will present The Lessons, Reflec- for children 5 and under. Open to the Green Gala tions, and Carols of Christmas at 3 general public. ANKENY – St. Luke the p.m. at St. Ambrose Cathedral. The Evangelist Catholic School is hosting event features Scripture readings, Jan. 9 Thursday the fourth annual Green Gala. The reflections by Dr. Charles Anthony Catholic Widows and Widowers evening will include dinner, dancing, Silvestri, choral pieces, and Christ- DES MOINES – Meet live auction and silent auction. Vis- mas carols. Conductor is Dr. Aimee at 1 p.m. for lunch at the Trellis it slte-school.org/greengala to buy Beckmann-Collier. Readers include Restaurant after touring the Botani- tickets and for more information on Bishop William Joensen, students cal Center. For reservations or more event sponsorships. from Holy Family School and Dow- information contact Judy LaRonde at Chris and Janice Welp, of St. Francis Parish in West Des ling Catholic High School. Free and 515-988-7791. Ongoing Events Moines, consider ways to help Catholic Charities at a giving open to the public. Wednesdays – Divine Mercy wall on display at the No Room at the Inn event on Dec. 6. Jan. 12 Sunday Chaplet Jan. 3 Friday Alpha at St. Francis DES MOINES – The Di- Catholic Widows and Widowers WEST DES MOINES – vine Mercy chaplet is prayed at 7 DES MOINES – First Fri- Alpha will be held at St. Francis of p.m. at St Augustin Chapel. day Mass at 8:30 a.m. at St. Antho- Assisi in the Serra Room on Sun- ny Church. Brunch will follow at the days, 5-7 p.m., through April 5. Ses- st Sundays -- Latin Mass Cub’s Club on Southwest 1 Street. sions include a meal, video, and open DES MOINES – The Lat- For reservations or more information discussion in this 11-week program. in Mass at St. Anthony Parish is at 5 contact Judy LaRonde at 515-988- Alpha is open to all adults. Register p.m. 7791. at eventbrite.com/e/alpha-registra- Beginning Experience tion-70765466415 or for more infor- DES MOINES – Those mation email SFAAlpha@saintfran who have lost a spouse through death, cischurch.org or call 515-440-1030.

Have a Blessed Advent Drake University students Brooke Doohen, Anna Holden, and Madeline Leone, of St. Catherine of Siena Parish, were among the helpers handing out 871 holiday food boxes serving 1,985 individuals at the Catholic Charities Outreach and a Merry Christmas! Center in Des Moines. Thanks to partners MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center, Britton Transport, St. Pius X Catho- lic Church Homeless and Outreach Committee, and all of the From Iowa Catholic Radio. volunteers, board members and staff who pitched in.

Tune into Iowa Catholic Radio on Christmas Eve and Christmas, for special Christmas programing!

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Victim Assistance Advocate The diocese’s Victim Assistance Advocate is a staff member at Polk County Victim Services. He helps Reach 35,000 households by placing an ad in The Catholic Mirror. victims of sexual abuse of minors by clergy through a complaint process and in seeking support and Contact Kelly at [email protected] or call 515-237-5054 to learn more. counseling services. He can be reached at 515-286-2024 or [email protected]. www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 7 Enthusiastic young Church energized at NCYC Teens from across our diocese join nearly 20,000 in Indianapolis

Youth from St. Mary Parish in Hamburg met up with Bishop William Joensen at the National Catholic Youth Conference.

Emma Hughes, of Holy Rosary Parish in Glenwood, Ava Youth from St. Ambrose Cathedral Parish in Des Moines checked out the thematic village, Hughes of St. Patrick Parish in Council Bluffs, Ellie Scar- featuring activities and booths of organizations from all over the United States. borough and Kate Hughes, both of Holy Rosary, sing kara- oke in the thematic village.

Parish in Des Moines. was happy to be back with teens were popular. and different perspectives on dif- By Anne Marie Cox From Hamburg and from his parish. Oliver Sheaff, of Holy ferent gospel readings which is Staff Writer Dunlap to Des Moines, more than “To come back and feel Trinity Parish in Des Moines, said really important to me,” said Jer- 550 teenagers and chaperones the power of Christ is moving but he learned how to deal better with riann Richardson, of Holy Rosary Imagine 20,000 teenag- from across the diocese embarked more important is to see the youth stress, while Josh Spenceri, also Parish in Glenwood. She liked the ers and their chaperones, sway- on a life-changing pilgrimage to actually connect,” he said. of Holy Trinity, learned about so- message from Pope Francis about ing to praise music in the dark by NCYC. “I absolutely love it,” cial media and how it can affect “tenderness and mercy and I think their stadium seats, while holding There was little down- said youth minister Andrea Fish- one’s opinion of oneself. that’s something I will keep in my the light on their phones up high time on this short adventure. The er, of St. Mary/Holy Cross Parish Josie Taggart, of Our mind for a couple of years.” at the conclusion of Mass. youth were entertained by Chris- in Elkhart. “It’s inspiring to see Lady’s Immaculate Heart Parish “I came in 2017 and re- Thousands of points of tian pop duo For King & Country all these kids continue their en- in Ankeny, went to a session on ally grew in my faith that year so I light, together in faith. and other bands. The pope spoke thusiasm for Jesus.” emotional virtue for a drama-free decided to come and do it again,” The young church is a to the youth through a video and Some of the speakers life with speaker Sarah Swafford. said Isabella Maloney, also of light that can inject enthusiasm, his representative to the United opened up a new understanding The youth learned from Holy Rosary Parish. “When we bring new ideas and encourage States, Archbishop Christophe of the Catholic faith for the teens. one another, too. received the pope’s message, that families and friends to be faithful Pierre, delivered a message. “I really liked Immac- “Kids get to learn from was so inspirational to me, that in following Jesus. This was the They were inspired by ulee (Ilibagiza). She made me the experiences of other kids,” he was so invested in the young message at the National Catholic Rwanda genocide survivor Im- think of God in a different way,” said Juwan Yugusuk, of St. Am- people, and so I’m going to go Youth Conference in mid-No- maculee Ilibagiza to forgive, said Ozzy Torres, of St. Bernard brose Cathedral Parish. out and try to spread the word as vember in Indianapolis. learned from Mark Hart (the Parish in Osceola. “Our Lord is always much as I can.” “I really like it here be- “Bible Geek”), heard Father Au- “I think I’ll have a dif- there for us,” said Dah Meh, of Bishop William Joensen cause I find it so interesting how, gustino Torres, Katie Prejean ferent perspective because of all St. Ambrose Cathedral Parish. celebrated Mass with the Des out of 20,000, we all share that McGrady and other nationally the different stories. They talked Some youth returned af- Moines diocesan delegation. He same love for God with Jesus known speakers. about real life events” that relate ter the last gathering. encouraged the youth and their Christ and we share that connec- Waukee’s youth minister to the Bible, said Juan Daniel Lo- “I went two years ago chaperones to share what they tion with one another,” said Julia at St. Boniface Parish, TJ Irvin, pez, also of St. Bernard Parish. and I had a fantastic experience. I learned. Fergus, of St. Mary of Nazareth had been away for a few years but The breakout sessions learned a lot about different saints “Now what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. But what happens in Indy, can’t remain in secret. For when you return to our Des Moines diocese, people will be able to see. They’ll say, ‘I know you but there’s something more, the way your lamp lights and burns.’ For your ongoing friendship with Christ and that oil of your anointing and burning love will help light not only the diocese but the world!”

Youth from Christ the King Parish in Des Moines pose by the NCYC letters.

Photos by Anne Marie Cox 8 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 9 10 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 St. Albert Catholic High School fall sports Volleyball and cross-country make state, football players give back

By Kelly Mescher Collins Staff Writer

St. Albert Catholic High School had a successful fall sports season. Freshman Carly McKeever qualified for the state cross country meet after placing 12th at districts. Boys’ cross country qualified for state after placing 3rd at districts. The team placed 7th at the Class 1-A state cross country meet. Senior Bennett Heister- kamp placed 4th in the Class 1-A state cross country meet. Allie Petry, left, and senior Jordyn Blaha playing volleyball Heisterkamp said he felt for St. Albert Catholic High School. good about the results, and had said though she’s played club at age 9. been working on improving his volleyball, nothing compares to The football team had time for months. competing for St. Albert. 5 wins and 4 losses this season. “My junior year at the “I’m closer with the They finished 2nd in their district. state meet I got 24th and I knew people of St. Albert,” Blaha said. The football players also gave I wanted to do better and get a “When I play with them it’s dif- back, donating a combined 200 medal,” Heisterkamp said. “I ferent because we’re all so close.” hours of community service to lo- worked hard in the off season, ran It’s sad saying goodbye, cal parishes. every day and put in a lot more Blaha added. “All in all, it was a miles than I had before. I changed Senior Kylie Collins great fall for St. Albert sports up my eating habits and cut out is one of the high school’s only teams,” said Athletic Director Senior the junk food. swimmers. Since St. Albert does Ken Schreiber. “I’m very proud Bennett Heister- “It felt really good to not have its own team, Collins of our athletes and coaches. The kamp of St. cross the finish line [in 4th] and swims for Lewis Central in Coun- hard work they put in this fall was Albert placed know that all my hard work paid cil Bluffs. unbelievable. Not only did they 4th in the Class off,” Heisterkamp continued. “I “I placed well at state; excel on the fields and court, they 1-A state cross didn’t want to regret not giving wish I could have made it to fi- excelled in the classroom. country meet. 100 percent and that I could have nals but I went my fastest time “Our cross country, done better. I was happy with the of the whole season in the 100 volleyball and football teams all Senior Kylie seniors and the team.” backstroke so I was happy with achieve the Excellence of Ac- Collins is one The volleyball team fin- it,” Collins said. “The three relays ademics Award from the Iowa of only two St. ished out the season with a record that qualified did good consider- High School Athletic Association Albert student 24 wins and 10 losses. They fin- ing that there were some really and Iowa Girls High School Ath- swimmers. She ished 3rd in the Hawkeye 10 Con- fast teams there.” letic Union,” Schreiber added. swims for Lewis ference and qualified for the state Collins has been swim- “Again, we are very proud of our Central High tournament. ming since she started lessons accomplishments this fall.” School in Coun- Senior Jordyn Blaha very young and team swimming cil Bluffs.

Dowling Catholic High School fall sports Girls’ swimming, boys’ cross country and football win state championships

is bittersweet. I’m By Kelly Mescher Collins ready to move on Staff Writer and go to college, but also sad leaving Dowling Catholic ex- all your friends that perienced another outstanding are in grades below season of fall sports, said Athletic you.” Director Tom Wilson. The boys’ “Our girls’ swim and cross country team dive won the first state champi- took the state cham- onship in school history while pionship for the third boys’ cross country and football time in four years. also claimed championships,” “Everyone Wilson said. “We have been went crazy [when blessed with good, hard-working we got the results],” Left: Senior Annie Flood ran cross country all four years at Dowling student-athletes and very dedicat- said senior Zach Catholic. Above: Senior Katie Broderick, whose team won the state ed coaches.” Fry. “We all started swimming championship. She signed a letter of intent to swim at Senior Katie Broderick singing and hug- Indiana University. said winning the state swimming ging each other. It championship is a memory that was a really good will last a lifetime. feeling. It was our “It was just really great,” senior year – it was said Broderick, who has signed a going to be our last letter of intent to swim at Indiana time doing the cross her high school career University. country meet, and it was a really and has no regrets. “I’m looking forward to special experience I’ll never for- Flood will lace getting faster and moving up to get.” up her running shoes yet the next level,” Broderick said. The girls’ cross country this spring when she runs Senior Berit Quass has team placed 10th at the state tour- track for Dowling Catho- enjoyed representing Dowling in nament. Senior Annie Flood also lic. the pool. ran at state individually. She en- The football “Winning the team ti- joyed running for Dowling all team also took home the tle put the cherry on top,” said four years and hates saying good- state championship for a Quass, who has signed a letter of bye to the sport. record 7th straight season, L-R: Dowling’s boys’ cross country team are Jordan Daniel, Mike intent to swim at the University “It’s definitely sad,” beating archrival West Gripple, Lucas Martin, Will Ode, Zach Fry, Sam Hall and Cade Muller. of Tennessee. “[Saying goodbye] said Flood, who is satisfied with Des Moines Valley. www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 11 Young Des Moines couple step out in faith Vietnamese priest dies at age 62 Continued from page 1 minster to Holy Family Parish Continued from page 1 in Mondamin. to continue to be a seminarian Father Tan became the so good with Roland and so patient even though it meant persecu- only foreign-born priest in the with Roland.” tion by the state. diocese when he was ordained, Seth spends a lot of time Many of his friends said Monsignor Larry Beeson. working with Roland, getting him were jailed. Today, the diocese is served by caught up on numbers, letters and Father Tan lived for many international priests. more. seven years with his bishop. He Father Tan will be re- “He’s been amazing and studied philosophy and theolo- membered for his gift for music. it’s definitely helped him grow,” gy in an underground seminary “He was talented mu- Mary added. from 1976-1983. The following sically, played the violin, organ, The couple often lean three years, he served in pasto- and piano,” said Monsignor on God, which “made our mar- ral work. Beeson. “He played the violin riage stronger when we had our In 1988, Father Tan when he celebrated his 25th or- hard times and weak moments and escaped Vietnam by boat along- dination anniversary with the learning to take care of a 3 ½ year side other Vietnamese. After priests.” old who has been traumatized.” five days of dangerous sailing, Father Tan was also “God knew what he his boat reached Malaysia. He multilingual. was doing when he brought me spent seven months in Malaysia “He spoke English Seth…,” Mary continued. “He’s and six months in the Philip- when he came here, but knew definitely been the rock this family pines, living, sharing and minis- French and some Italian,” said has needed through all of this.” tering to other poor and suffer- Monsignor Beeson. Throughout this process, ing refugees. “He was very gener- Mary has come to see how much Father Tan arrived in ous in helping anyone in need,” God loves each of us – including the United States in April, 1989, Monsignor added. “He had a Roland. and by June was in the Diocese great sense of humor and always “When we see what God of Des Moines. had a smile on his face.” did for Roland, you have to take He earned a Master of At the Mass of Chris- a step back and go ‘Wow,’” Mary Divinity degree from Sacred tian Burial, Father Michael said. Heart Seminary in Hales Cor- Amadeo said, “Father Tan in During the adoption pro- ners, Wisconsin. his life constantly laid down his cess, Seth and Mary were also Roland, at left, is pictured with his brothers. The two older In 1992, at the age of own self for the sake of others, trying to conceive, and discovered boys live with Kim and Rand Lehman of All Saints Parish in 35, his long vocational journey whether that meant fleeing from fertility issues. Des Moines. Roland lives with his parents, Seth and Mary culminated with ordination to Vietnam, whether that was to “I really struggled...I Sojka in Des Moines, who made his adoption official earlier the priesthood. He was among help his siblings, whether it was didn’t realize how much love and this year. six seminarians who were or- to be with one who just lost a time and attention Roland would dained at the Des Moines Civic loved one. Father Tan laid down need, but God did,” Mary said, A few weeks later, Seth read the Bible. Center by Bishop William Bull- his life because he knew the Fa- noting God’s perfect timing. “God and Mary held a joint baptism for “I’ve seen our prayers ock. ther’s love, and knowing of the knew just what he would need. He Roland and Zelda at the Basilica are always answered, and I’ve Upon becoming a Father’s love then shared that wanted Roland to just fully come with the pastor, Father Aquinas seen how God has touched lives priest, he began his ministry in with others.” into our family and have his needs Nichols. (It is frowned upon for that were broken and that had no parishes: St. Patrick in Mis- A visitation was held met.” adoptive parents to make religious hope….,” Kim said. “That fact that souri Valley; St. Theresa in Des on Dec. 15 at St. Ambrose Ca- The couple found out Jan. decisions for foster children until my daughter was lost and now is Moines; St. Patrick in Bayard; thedral in Des Moines. A Mass 9, 2018 that they would be bring- adoption becomes legal.) found. God has touched her heart St. Joseph in Jamaica; St. Pat- of Christian Burial was Dec. ing Roland home. One year later – “I would put that day right and I can see that God has made rick in Corning; St. Patrick in 16, also at the cathedral. A me- Jan. 9, 2019 – Seth stopped at the up there with our wedding day…,” this his mission. So we sit back, Lenox; and Corpus Christi in morial Mass was Dec. 19 at St. grocery store to buy Mary flowers Seth said. “The placement of Ro- continue to pray and give it to him Council Bluffs. Peter in Coun- in celebration of her 1-year anni- land with us was life-changing. and then he does the rest.” Most recently, he had cil Bluffs. Internment will be versary of becoming a mother to As much as it was an announce- served as a hospital and nursing at Good Shepherd Cemetery in Roland. When he arrived home, ment of him formally kicking off home chaplain in the Council Huntington, California. Mary also had a surprise – she was his Catholic faith…it was almost Bluffs area and as sacramental pregnant. a closure to a chapter of him not “If we had gotten preg- formally being a member of our nant that first year of marriage, the family to him formally and forever conversation around Roland would being a member of our family.” have been significantly different,” Last month Kim travelled Seth conceded, admitting that they to California to greet her daugh- may not have been as open-minded ter as she was released from pris- about adopting. on. Kim accompanied her back to Mary delivered baby Zel- Iowa, and she is now living with da Sept. 9 – just three days before the Lehmans and her two boys in Roland’s formal adoption hear- Ankeny. They are now working on ing, which had been scheduled for finding her a good job. months. “She’s so nervous. I told “There was the option to her, ‘God doesn’t need you to be reschedule,” Seth said. “And Mary qualified. He brought you here in said, ‘We’re not missing the court a miraculous moment. Just put date.’ She marched right down your trust in Jesus,’” Lehman said, there and all four of us were there pointing out all the positive chang- for the court hearing and we final- es she’s seen in her daughter. She ized the adoption. It was a joyous now joins Kim at 5 a.m. every occasion.” morning to drink coffee, pray and 12 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 Bishop: Witnessing at ICE check-in is going to peripheries

at the Catholic Worker House, a By Barb Arland-Fye place of hospitality that Guzman Catholic News Service and others sought out by word of mouth. CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (CNS) Bishop Zinkula looks to -- Bishop Thomas R. Zinkula of Pope Francis as his guide to go Davenport, was among 18 people out to the peripheries to encounter who packed the reception area of other people. The bishop chose to a federal facility in Cedar Rapids, witness an ICE check-in, saying keeping vigil as Alejandro Guz- that accompanying Guzman “is man checked in with U.S. Im- an opportunity to practice our migration and Customs Enforce- Catholic Christian faith to love ment officers. our neighbor and to show support Guzman, a 29-year-old along the way.” Mexican, is not Catholic but gave The bishop listened in- thanks for the presence of Bishop tently as the immigrants shared Zinkula and the others participat- their stories one by one. Most ing in the Catholic Day of Action fled violence, crime and poverty to Protect Refugee Families and in the northern triangle of Central Children Nov. 27. The Iowa City America or, in Guzman’s case, Catholic Worker, Guzman’s spon- Mexico. He said he had been sor, and Iowa Citizens for Com- kidnapped and tortured by a drug munity Improvement, organized cartel in his early 20s. the event. After escaping and mak- CNS Photo/Barb Arland-Fye “We’re all together. ing his way to the United States, Davenport Bishop Thomas R. Zinkula prays with a group that inclues Alejandro Guzman, a We’re in solidarity. One human he found work on the West Coast, Mexican immigrant, and Emily Sinnwell, of the Iowa City Catholic Worker House after Guz- family,” the bishop said during a but a traffic violation led to his man’s check-in with Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Cedar Rapids on Nov. 27. roundtable discussion at the Cath- arrest and incarceration in a pri- Worker House agreed to sponsor about you very much, as much as Arland-Fye is editor of The Cath- olic Worker House in Iowa City vately run immigration prison in Guzman, who also seeks asylum. anyone in the diocese.” olic Messenger, newspaper of the that preceded the check-in with California. He remained there for “You deserve to be treated with “Be strong, be courageous. Stay Diocese of Davenport. ICE officers in Cedar Rapids. 14 months until a donor posted dignity and respect,” the bishop close to God and have hope,” he Nine immigrants currently live $25,000 bond. The Iowa Catholic said to several people. “I care said. Bishops make “ad limina” visit Continued from page 1 that would enlarge my vison on how we continue as a church to- will occur on Thursday, Jan. 16. gether that will equip me to be the Region IX is comprised leader God has called me to be,” of the 15 Catholic bishops of he said. Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri and The Region IX bishops Kansas. The Region IX bish- will celebrate Mass together at ops will have a free exchange of the major basilicas in Rome and questions and ideas, Monsignor have opportunities for discussion Orr added, which is helpful to the and fellowship. In previous visits, bishops and the Holy Father. Bishop Pates found great value in “[The meeting] can these gatherings. serve a dual role,” Monsignor Orr “This opened the door to said. “There’s a level of account- common projects and mutual sup- ability to the Holy Father and for port,” he said. “It also highlight- the bishop’s ministry within a ed the common issues which we diocese, but it also can be an op- were addressing: evangelization, portunity for self-assessment by religious vocations, the develop- a bishop and whoever he wishes ment of the mission of laity in the to consult with in terms of what Church.” is happening in the diocese, what Bishop Joensen has a needs to change and what could respect and appreciation for the be strengthened.” work of his predecessor. Bishops Joensen and “Bishop Pates has a Pates will have meetings with deeper sense of the challenges the: facing this region and the larger • Secretary of State Des Moines area,” Bishop Jo- Walk Where Jesus Walked • Protection of Minors ensen said. “And I hope for him • Congregation of Bishops personally that he can find great • Congregation of Clergy satisfaction and appreciation January 19 - 28, 2021 • Doctrine of the Faith from the Holy Father and others Bishop Joensen will also as having been a faithful servant Visiting: participate in optional meetings to the people of Southwest Iowa.” Way of the Cross, Sea of Galilee, Dead Sea,Mount with the: Bishops Joensen and of Olives, Bethlehem, Cana, Nazareth, Church of Holy Sepul- • Dicastery for Laity, Family Pates will be staying at the North and Life chre, Jordan River, Mt. Carmel and much more American College in Rome and • Congregation for Catholic spend time with three diocesan Education seminarians Reed Flood, Alex Grand Tour of the Holy Land • Pontifical Council for the Kramer and Mike Mahoney, as Promotion of the New well as Father James Downey, Evangelization who is currently studying for his $3499 R/T – Chicago $3599 R/T – Omaha & Tampa • Dicastery for Promoting licentiate in moral theology in Includes: Daily Mass, R/T Air, First Class/Select Hotels, most Integral Human Develop- Rome. ment Bishop Joensen also will meals,entrance fees, porterage, all tours, and much more! • Pontifical Council for Cul- meet up with a group of former *Includes estimated Government taxes & airline surcharges of $700 per person ture students from Loras College, who Bishop Joensen looks will be in Rome in January. He forward to opportunities for will celebrate Mass for them. Hosted by veteran Tour Director growth, learning and how he can The 2019 quinquennial For brochure & complete information, call, write or email: Father John Vakulskas Jr better serve the Diocese of Des report can be found at dmdiocese. PO Box 347 Moines. org/about-us/diocesan-directory Okoboji, IA 51355 “I would welcome feed- at the bottom of the page. (712) 490-8047 or [email protected] back and responses to the report www.carnivalpriest.com and proposals or observations www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 13 Pope marks birthday with advice on age

ents, have a unique and special By Cindy Wooden ability to understand the most Catholic News Service problematic situations,” the pope continued. “And when they pray VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- On for these situations, their prayer is the eve of his 83rd birthday, Pope strong, it’s potent.” Francis met with a group of his By living one’s senior peers -- although many were a years as a gift and a time for di- few years younger -- and told alogue, he said, the elderly show them that “old age is a time of the lie of “the traditional stereo- grace.” type of the elderly: ill, handi- “Grandparents, who capped, dependent, isolated, be- have received the blessing of see- sieged by fear, left out, having a ing their children’s children, are weak identity after losing their entrusted with a great task: trans- social role.” mitting the experience of life and Active seniors, he said, the history of the family, the com- also fight a system that focuses munity, the people,” the pope said more on “costs and risks” than on Dec. 16 during an audience with “resources and potential.” members of the Italian National “The future -- and this Association of Senior Workers. is not an exaggeration -- will be Pope Francis, who was found in dialogue between the born Dec. 17, 1936, told associ- young and the old,” he said. “We ation members that one’s later are all called to fight this poi- years should be a “season of di- sonous throwaway culture. With alogue,” because “the future of tenacity we are called to build a people naturally presupposes a a different society, one that is dialogue and encounter between more welcoming, more human, the old and young to build a so- more inclusive,” and one where ciety that is more just, more beau- the young aren’t ignored because tiful, has more solidarity and is they aren’t working yet and the more Christian.” old aren’t ignored because people As one grows older, he think their financially productive said, “the Lord renews his call years are over. to us. He calls us to preserve and “Remember,” the pope CNS/Paul Haring hand on the faith; he calls us to told them, “talk to young people, Pope Francis greets a newly married couple during his general audience in Paul VI hall at pray, especially to intercede; he not to clobber them, no. To listen the Vatican on Dec. 11. calls us to be alongside those who to them, to sow something. This are in need.” dialogue is the future.” “The elderly, grandpar-

Pope celebrates 50 years as a priest with writings of his spiritual director Christmas/New Year’s Mass Schedule ROME (CNS) -- As part of the celebrations for his 50th anniversary of priesthood, Pope Francis chose to personally present St. Anthony Parish a multi-volume collection of writings by his longtime spiritual di- 15 Indianola Road rector, the late Jesuit Father Miguel Angel Fiorito. Des Moines In addition to presenting the Spanish-language collection, “Escritos” (“Writings”), at a conference at the Jesuit headquarters Dec. 13, Pope Francis wrote an introduction to it, saying the publi- cation is “a consolation for those of us who, for many years, were nourished by his teachings. These writings will be a great good for the whole church.” Christmas Eve—December 24 4 p.m. Church ** (Solemn Mass*) Greece and the Greek Isles 4 p.m. Parish Hall In the Steps of St. Paul, the Apostle 8 p.m. Church ** (Solemn Mass*) 11 days: November 3-13, 2020 ** Procession of the Star. A St. Anthony tradition which spans the decades. hosted by During the procession at the beginning of Mass, the star proceeds down the Rev. Robert E. Harris church aisle from the loft to the crib, highlighting the trek taken by the shep- All Saints Catholic Church herds and the three kings. A lovely tradition of our great parish. Visiting: Athens, Corinth, Mykonos, Ephesus, Patmos, Crete, Santorini, Delphi, Kalambaka, Thessaloniki $3899 PER PERSON FROM DES MOINES Christmas Day—December 25 (Air/land tour price is $3459 8 a.m. Church plus $440 government taxes/airline surcharges) 9:30 a.m. Church—Solemn High Mass in Latin

For information & a brochure, contact: Fr. Robert Harris: 11 a.m. Church (Solemn Mass*) 515-265-5001 ext. 202 / Email: [email protected] 1:30 p.m. Church—Spanish (Solemn Mass*) *Solemn Mass indicates the use of incense and the assistance of deacon(s). SPACE IS LIMITED AT THIS SPECIAL PRICE!!

New Year’s Masses 12/31 5:30 p.m. Church 1/1 8:00 a.m. Church 9:30 a.m. Church—Solemn High Mass in Latin 11:00 a.m. Church (Solemn Mass*) 12:30 p.m. Church—Spanish

515.309.3536, 12345 University Ave., Clive, IA 50325 14 www.dmdiocese.org The Catholic Mirror December 20, 2019 Catechism will be updated to Bishop installs new pastor include ecological sins, pope says

VATICAN CITY government, I am reminded of (CNS) -- Following through on Hitler’s speeches in 1934 and a proposal made at the Synod of 1936.” Bishops for the Amazon, Pope “They are actions typi- Francis said there are plans to cal of Nazism that, with its per- include a definition of ecolog- secution of Jews, gypsies and ical sins in the church’s official people of homosexual orienta- teaching. tion, represent a negative model “We should be intro- par excellence of a throwaway ducing -- we were thinking -- in culture and hate,” the pope said. the Catechism of the Catholic “That is what happened in that Church the sin against ecology, time and today, these things are ecological sin against the com- reappearing.” mon home,” he told participants Today’s “current of pu- at a conference on criminal jus- nitivism, which claims to solve tice Nov. 15. social problems through the Members of the Inter- penal system,” has not worked, national Association of Penal the pope said. Instead, an “ele- Law were in Rome Nov. 13-16 mentary sense of justice” must for the conference, which cen- be applied so that “certain con- tered on the theme, “Criminal duct for which corporations are Justice and Corporate Business.” usually responsible, does not go Pope Francis also de- unpunished.” nounced the abuse of law and Chief among those legislation to justify acts of vio- crimes, he added, are acts that lence and hatred. “can be considered as ‘ecocide’: Today’s throwaway the massive contamination of culture, as well as other “psy- air, land and water resources, cho-social phenomenon” pose the large-scale destruction of threats to the common good flora and fauna, and any action while insidiously promoting a capable of producing an ecolog- “culture of hate,” he said. These ical disaster or destroying an threats, he added, often take the ecosystem.” form of “symbols and actions Pope Francis also that are typical of Nazism.” called on the international com- “I must confess,” the munity to recognize ecocide as pope said, departing from his a “fifth category of crime against Photo by Michael Gatzke prepared remarks, “that when I peace.” Bishop William Joensen installed Father Ken Halbur as pastor of St. Luke the Evange- hear some speeches, some per- list Parish in Ankeny on Dec. 14/15. When the bishop installs a pastor, he blesses the son in charge of order or the relationship between the pastor and parishioners.

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Iowa youth help California, Alaska teens get to national DIOCESE seeks youth conference SUPERINTENDENT of DUBUQUE, Iowa (CNS) NCYC, and the organization sug- -- The Archdiocese of Dubuque gested the Dubuque Archdiocese CATHOLIC SCHOOLS sent the largest delegation in the with Anchorage and San Bernardi- country to the National Catholic no. The Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau in Missouri has an Youth Conference in Indianapolis. At least 13 parishes in the opening for Diocesan Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1, From Nov. 21-23, more Archdiocese of Dubuque have al- 2020. The diocesan school system includes 23 elementary and 3 high than 1,200 teens and more than 400 ready made contributions to help schools. Requirements: Active Catholic, advanced degree in Educational adult chaperones from across the these dioceses. Most parishes have Administration, certifiable in State of Missouri, and experience in Catholic archdiocese attended the biennial sent in $10 for every person at school administration, preferably on a diocesan level. Ability to promote event, which usually draws close to the parish participating in NCYC, Catholic mission of the schools is a high priority. Must also be willing 23,000 participants. money earned through local fund- to travel throughout the diocese. Competitive salary, excellent health While having a large num- raisers. Other churches have held benefits, and retirement based on diocesan guidelines. Send cover letter ber of NCYC participants is not second collections at Mass. Some and resume to Janet L. Smith, Chancellor, 601 S. Jefferson, Springfield, new for the Iowa archdiocese, the chaperones have even made per- MO, 65806. You may also call (417) 866-0841 or Email jansmith@dioscg. effort by its young people to help sonal donations. org to request an application packet. their peers from other dioceses also One of these parishes is attend was a first. St. Mary’s in Waverly, which is Participants from parishes sending 35 teens to the conference. in the archdiocese raised more than Julie Feldhake, coordinator of $5,000 for the Archdiocese of An- faith formation for students in fifth chorage, Alaska, and the Diocese of through 12th grades at the parish, San Bernardino, California, to help said St. Mary’s students have been offset travel costs for teens in those busy raising money to help young locations who wished to attend people in Alaska and California. Principal for NCYC. “Our students had a Val- This funding help was the entine’s Day bake sale, we sold idea of Kevin Feyen, director of roses for Mother’s Day, we had a Catholic High School adolescent faith formation for the silent auction with items or services Archdiocese of Dubuque. While the teens made, and we also had a The Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau is seeking aPrincipal talking about NCYC with other bowl-a-thon,” said Julie Feldhake, for Notre Dame High School in Cape Girardeau, MO, effective July diocesan directors from around the of St. Mary Parish in Waverly. 1, 2020. Qualified applicant must be an Active Catholic, have Missouri country, Feyen learned how expen- “Each student was asked to donate principal certification, have a Master’s degree in School Administration sive it was for dioceses in the west- 10 percent of their silent auction (or be working toward it) with 3-5 years of Catholic school experience. ern part of the U.S. to send their earnings.” Administrative experience preferred. To request an application packet young people. Feldhake said their efforts please contact Anne Buckley at the Catholic Center, (417) 866-0841, “The price for them to at- to help others attend NCYC have [email protected]. tend NCYC was three times more meant a great deal to her students. than it is for our teens,” said Kev- in Feyen, archdiocesan director of adolescent faith formation. Raising the money was his idea. “Most were only bringing 10 to 12 people.” Feyen realized that if par- ticipants in his archdiocese were willing to chip in some money, even as little as $10 per person, they would be able to help offset some of the travels costs for distant dioceses and allow more individu- als from those places to attend. He took his idea to the National Federation for Catho- lic Youth Ministry, which hosts “Middendorf Insurance cares about protecting

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o doubt the Virgin Mary held the newborn NChrist child very close to her. But we suspect that she occasionally placed her precious child in the wooden manger.  irty-three years later she would stand by Jesus as he hung on the wooden cross.  e wood of the manger foreshadows the wood of the cross. Consider that the manger was a trough used for feeding animals. Consider further that Jesus himself became food, eternal food for the salvation of the world. As you attend holy Mass celebrating Christmas, and as you join your family and friends for a Christmas dinner, join the Iowa Knights of Columbus in remembering Jesus, present in our hearts and homes, and present especially in the holy Eucharist, our food, our nourishment, for eternal life. — Rev. %BWJE"NCSPTZ State Chaplain Iowa Knights of Columbus

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