Tidingsaugust/September 2013 It Is God’S Intention to Make Us Like Him

Shalom tidingsAugust/september 2013 It Is God’s Intention To Make Us Like Him

Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it Proverbs 22:6 can make Godall of us holy Music led by ALL 4 HIM Worship Band Simple Praise & Worship Team HSYAY Team

Beloved Mother, amidst the pains, troubles and temptations of life, you remained untouched by sin and impurity, so as to be taken up by the angels into heaven. Help us to be clothed with grace and conquer the attacks against our purity. Amen.

August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 4 EDITORIAL NOTE

once visited the town of Wuppertal, Germany. Accompanied by Sisters of the MSMI convent in Zolling, I went to visit the Wuppertal Schwebebahn, which is a suspension railway built above the Wupper River, to help ease the traffic congestion in the town. Such trains are only available in IGermany and Japan, so I was naturally excited to experience it.

After getting our tickets, we moved to the platform where a train was on the verge of leaving. My companions all rushed aboard. I, however, had been so transfixed by the size of the train tracks and the workings of the suspended wheels. The sound of the automatic closing doors startled me. I immediately thought to run onto the train. But all the doors were already closed and the train left for the next station. Then an old Christian song I had heard in my childhood came to mind: You who are asleep, like Jonah in the ship, How long will you sleep? The Lord may come now. The door of the grace is about to be closed. Brothers, if you rush, you can also enter.

I had gotten the ticket with the intention of getting on the train. I was very close to entering it, but I had lost my focus, and the doors closed before me. Friends, get into the train to Heavenly Zion! We are now living in a period of grace. Through Baptism, we were given the ticket to the Kingdom of God. But our journey to Zion got entangled with the trappings of the world. All who had been with me that day in Wuppertal had intended to travel by the train and achieved their goal. But, my eyes had wandered from my goal.

In this time of Grace, let us work with vigilance. Let us not forget our goals and priorities. May God grant us the grace for it. And before the closing of the door of Grace, we are called to help others to enter in also.

Let us pray, God, let us never ignore Your call to enter into Your Kingdom. Let your Holy Spirit teach us to get away from the vanities of the world and meditate on the eternal salvation of souls and Heaven. Jesus, the hope of my soul, save me.

benny punnathara

August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 3 Contents Shalom

FAITH IN ACTION tidings 11 A Lifetime Commitment | by joe sebastian 15 The Call: Father Jeremy Leatherby | by gigi cherian P aTROns 21 Simple Spiritual Economics | by felix carroll Bishop Mar Jacob Angadiath, Syro-Malabar Diocese, Chicago by mary job 41 Real Men Pray the Rosary | Bishop Thomas Mar Eusebius, Syro-Malankara Exarchate, USA

Spiritual Director COLUMNS Father Tom Puthusseril, M.S.

5 God’s Grace is Enough | by father joseph illo Editor-in-Chief Chevalier Benny Punnathara 9 How the Catechism Made Me Catholic | by bob rice 17 The Art of Catholic Meditation | by matthew leonard Editorial Council Mary Job, Joseph John, Joe Philip, 32 Prayer to Saint Michael The Archangel | by cyril john Jithin Joseph 38 Discover Your Personal Evangelism Style | by ruth d’souza SHALOM TIDINGS August/September, 2013 God’s (ISSN 2327-4549) is published monthly by Shalom Media USA, Inc., 1907 Beatrice INSPIRATION Avenue, Edinburg, Texas 78539. Periodicals 7 A Gift From Above | by bonnie engstrom postage pending at Edinburg, Texas, and additional mailing offices. 13 A Light in the Dark | by jessica zimanske Grace is Website: www.ShalomWorld.org 19 Proclaim His Marvelous Deeds | by elizabeth dart languell E-mail: [email protected] 29 Swim Against The Tide | by elsy raphael Office: (215) 366-3031

Shalom Media Canada PO Box - 3070, Enough 7700 Markham Rd & 14th Ave, By Father Joseph Illo ESSAYS Markham, ON L3S 4T1 Ph: (416) 913-8230 23 Faith Versus Positive Thinking | by mary nicewarner email: [email protected] 30 Of Birds, Bees, and Human Beings | by christopher west Shalom Media Europe Dalton House, 60 Windsor Avenue, Complaints persistent sexual thoughts. Or perhaps his bad eyes. London, SW19 2RR We all complain from time to time. Some people Or maybe a persistent interpersonal weakness—he was YOUTH FOCUS Ph: 020-3514-1275 are professional moaners, and others keep life’s disposed to lose his temper. Maybe it was a tumor, or email: [email protected] 34 Decision Moment | by christopher stefanick disappointments largely to themselves, but we all gripe psoriasis, or insomnia, or alcoholism, or migraines. 36 How To Be Catholic In College | by jonathan mani and whine. Gripenheimers and Whinebuckets, all of us. “Three times” Paul asked God to heal him—that Even Saint Paul complained, as he does in 2 Corinthians means, in Biblical language, he asked God over and over 43 What Is Courtship All About? | by carmen marcoux 12:7-10. “Three times” he begged the Lord to remove for relief. But what did Paul do when God did not heal Disclaimer his “thorn in the flesh,” but the Lord did not remove it. him? He took a deep breath, pulled himself up straight, Shalom Media USA Inc. considers its sources reliable and verifies as much data as possible. However, reporting And so what did the great Saint Paul do? He stopped and said: “God’s grace is enough for me.” inaccuracies can occur, consequently readers using this complaining. He embraced his limitations, in the name 26 Media Scan information do so at their own risk. While every effort has been made to ensure that information is correct at of Christ. Suffering the time of print, Shalom Media USA Inc. cannot be held 46 Upcoming Events responsible for the outcome of any action or decision based A great error of our time is to imagine that we can on the information contained in this publication/website. The publishers or authors do not give any warranty for the Thorn in the Flesh somehow, with enough technology or psychology, completeness or accuracy for this publication’s content, Let us look more closely at Paul’s famous “thorn in the eliminate all suffering from life. So if you have a physical explanation or opinion. Although persons and ministries mentioned herein are believed to be reputable, neither flesh.” He describes it also as an “angel of Satan to beat problem, just keep trying new medicines until the pain Shalom Media USA Inc. nor any of its employees, sales agent or contributors accept any responsibility whatsoever for such me.” It was not just a toothache, but a chronic, painful is covered over. The pharmaceutical companies will persons and ministries’ activities. No part of this publication and/or website may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval debilitation. Perhaps it was a problem with his feet or love you! If you have an emotional problem, just jump system or transmitted in any form without prior written knees, particularly difficult for one who spent his life from one relationship to another until something works. permission from Shalom Media USA Inc. Permission is only deemed valid if approval is in writing. walking around the Mediterranean region. Maybe it was And see a therapist while you are at it! And if all else

4 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 5 Contents Shalom

Spiritual Director COLUMNS Father Tom Puthusseril, M.S.

4 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 5 But if we find ourselves obsessed with avoiding pain, when we simply cannot accept the experience of suffering in our lives, then we miss life’s deeper meanings. Because some beautiful things only come through suffering, self-denial, and humble A Gift from submission to what we cannot control.

Above By Bonnie Engstrom

Strength in weakness Suffering purifies our illusions of self-reliance. We learn to really trust God when we suffer. Suffering melts our icy hearts and opens them to others who suffer: it develops humility and compassion. “Compassion” in Latin means to “suffer with,” and we cannot know another person in their pain unless we too have suffered with them. A woman philosopher, Alice von Hildebrand, once told an auditorium full of priests: “You men labor under the distinct disadvantage of never having had a baby. When a child is pushing a woman’s body apart, trying to get out, she knows beyond doubt that she is not in control of her life. She gives herself over to Providence.” So we should not waste our energy obsessing over our sufferings and weaknesses. It is better to say, with Saint Paul, that “I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships and constraints, for the sake of Christ. For when I am weak, then am I strong.” Yes, dear brothers and sisters: it is hard to suffer, to be hemmed in by life, to sustain insult with a peaceful demeanor. But we must know that … God’s grace is enough. It is enough! fails, there is always whisky. But Saint Paul tells us flat Our Lady James Engstrom out: God’s grace is enough for us. Yes, we have to try Mother Teresa would often say, “I am nobody, and I have to reduce pain in our lives within reasonable means. I nothing.” This is really the state of things. We are nobody do not mean we should not take Advil, or get surgery outside of God’s grace, and nothing we have is ours. It all n a Wednesday afternoon, I went into labor with my floor, I swayed and prayed through the contractions, when we need it. But if we find ourselves obsessed belongs to Him. Our Lady, of course, is the most beautiful Othird child. I called my husband, Travis, my midwife, supported by my husband and cared for by my midwife. with avoiding pain, when we simply cannot accept example of human weakness and poverty. She was and my mom to tell them. Then I did everything I could Everything was peaceful and the baby’s heartbeat was the experience of suffering in our lives, then we miss nobody and owned nothing, at the mercy of the men and to make the labor progress, from scrubbing the bathtub strong and healthy. life’s deeper meanings. Because some beautiful things the political machinery around her. “My spirit rejoices to repeatedly climbing the stairs in my house. After much In the middle of the night I gave birth to a ten pound only come through suffering, self-denial, and humble in God my savior, because he has looked upon the prayer, we had decided on having another homebirth and baby boy, James Fulton, and my midwife quickly passed submission to what we cannot control. Pain is necessary lowliness of his servant.” She gave herself up to God, and I was ready to go. My midwife and her birth assistant him to me. As I held him his arms flopped down and for growth. “Growing pains.” In our fallen state, since we found herself in Him. Let us pray to her to do the same. arrived at our home and began to monitor my labor, hung at his side. He was blue and quiet. He was not suffer from the disorder of Original Sin, we only learn timing contractions, listening to the baby’s heart tones, breathing or moving. We did not know it then, but there perfection through the school of hard knocks. “But what F AthER JOSEPH ILLO (www.frilloblog.com) serves as Chaplain at Thomas and preparing for delivery. My other labors had been long was a knot in James’ umbilical cord. As he descended doesn’t kill me, makes me stronger….” Aquinas College (www.thomasaquinas.edu) in Santa Paula, California. and difficult but this one was beautiful. On my bedroom the birth canal, the knot tightened and cut off his blood

6 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 7 But if we find ourselves obsessed with avoiding pain, when we simply cannot accept the experience of suffering in our lives, then we miss life’s deeper meanings. Because some beautiful things only come through suffering, self-denial, and humble A Gift from submission to what we cannot control.

Above By Bonnie Engstrom

6 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 7 Like the ambulance medics, the ED team and NICU nurses gave him doses of epinephrine to restart his heart but nothing worked. He was cold and still. The nurses and doctors were hoping James would come alive long enough for me to say “good-bye.” supply. My son was stillborn. My midwife whisked him would die shortly due to massive organ failure from the By Bob Rice from my arms and, not finding a pulse, she and the birth severe lack of oxygen. They did not know if he would live assistant began CPR. Travis looked around the room and through the night, but he probably would not live through found my cup. After dipping his fingers in the ice water the weekend and definitely not through the week.T he he trickled the water on James’ forehead, making the hospital chaplain came and confirmed James;T ravis and remember looking down and seeing sign of the cross with his thumb, and proclaiming out I went home and asked people to pray. Using e-mail, blood on my hands. My head was loud, “James Fulton, I baptize you in the Name of the Facebook, and my blog, we asked people to pray for a still spinning from the line of drugs Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” miracle for our son: that his body be healed and that that I snorted in the bathroom. A A friend, who had been photographing the birth, he be spared any brain damage. We specifically asked prostitute was face down on the called 911 as I sat on my bedroom floor going into people to ask for Archbishop Sheen’s intercession and all Ibed, murdered. Did I do it? I could not shock. One of my few memories is of repeating Fulton over the country and the world people responded. People remember. I heard sirens outside and Sheen’s name in my head while I watched. I could not prayed, and we believe Sheen prayed with us and that his footsteps running up the stairs to my gather eloquent words to beg God for my son’s life or to prayers were an integral part of what happened. And what apartment. That was the moment that I implore the Archbishop to intercede for my stillborn son. happened was that James lived. He lived and he healed realized I needed a Savior. I needed Jesus. Calling Sheen’s name in my mind was the only prayer I and this past fall he turned two. In the NICU we were told Okay, none of that is true. could say; I suppose I trusted he would know the words that if James lived, he would be so severely disabled that Truth be told, I have a very boring to say to God to bring me back my son. he would remain in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. conversion story: I always loved Jesus. And First responders and paramedics arrived. They cut James would be unable to control his body, fed through a then I loved Him more. James’ umbilical cord, bundled him up against the cold tube, and mentally vacant. I was the good kid. Never drank. Never September night, and took him to the hospital. In the Instead he is just like every other little boy: he is did drugs. Knew to save sex for marriage. ambulance James was hooked to a heart monitor, which cute and ornery, loves trains and playing outside, and he In fact, I lived in fear of letting others down: showed pulseless electrical activity. James’ heart was still devours chicken nuggets. Even the things that set him my parents, my teachers, or even God. I was sending out electrical impulses, but it was not beating. apart – allergies and a speech delay—are completely a straight A student and prayed every night. His heart was not pumping blood to his organs, so his common, even amongst boys who were not considered So it might not be a surprise when I tell you body was not getting oxygen. When James and Travis dead for over an hour. Because my family believes that that one of the most exciting moments in my arrived at the emergency department (ED) there were James was miraculously healed by Jesus Christ through conversion is when I did something that many several nurse practitioners from the neonatal intensive the intercession of Fulton Sheen we contacted the Sheen consider boring: I read the Catechism. care unit (NICU) waiting for him. Like the ambulance Foundation, who opened an investigative tribunal in Last October marked the 20th anniversary medics, the ED team and NICU nurses gave him doses of September 2011. of the release of the Catechism of the Catholic epinephrine to restart his heart but nothing worked. He When Sheen was declared Venerable by Pope Church, but the English translation was released was cold and still. The nurses and doctors were hoping Emeritus Benedict XVI on June 28, 2012, the findings in the spring of 1994. I was living in Orlando, You see, though James would come alive long enough for me to say from James’ tribunal were submitted to the Vatican along Florida, at the time, bouncing between two jobs. much of my family was Catholic and I attended “good-bye.” One of the nurse practitioners was speaking with two other cases. God willing, there is a chance my Some evenings I would play in bars with my band, “The Catholic schools, I never really felt like I knew for certain on a phone to the on-call neonatologist, updating her son’s alleged healing could be declared a true miracle, Crowd.” Other evenings I worked at an improvisational what Catholicism was all about. The only time I heard on the situation. “Try for five more minutes and then call thus allowing for Venerable Sheen to be beatified. It is comedy club. No matter what I did I was usually out until about the Eucharist was in a Humanities class when the it,” the doctor said. She did not really think the five more all very exciting and for many reasons my husband and one or two in the morning, followed by a late night/early teacher asked, “Do you realize that the Catholic Church minutes would help; the five minutes were so they could I hope and pray that Fulton Sheen is beatified and then morning snack at the only restaurant in the area opened teaches that the Eucharist is the actual body and blood tell us they had tried everything they could to save our canonized. But in the end, more than anything else, we 24 hours—IHOP. of Christ, not just a symbol? How many of you believe son. They worked on James for five more minutes and his are just grateful for the miracle of life and the gift of our Getting home at 3AM, I would turn on the TV and that?” And none of us raised our hands because we had heart sat still. They stopped their efforts to call the time son, James Fulton. watch CNN, the only thing that was on. And one evening/ never heard that before. of death, but just as they did his heart began to beat morning they reported that the Catechism of the Catholic I had been blessed to have many friends who were again. After being without a pulse for sixty-one minutes, Church was coming out on Tuesday, the first time the Protestant, all of whom professed at times to know what James Fulton came back to life. BONNIE ENGSTROM is a stay-at-home mom. She and her husband live in central Illinois with their Catholic Church had a universal catechism in 500 years. Catholics believed. “You Catholics worship Mary,” one James was transferred to the NICU a couple of floors four children. She is a columnist for Ignitum Today (www.ignitumtoday.com) and writes about her I did not know what a “Catechism” was, but apparently would say. “You think you’re saved by what you do, not by up at the Children’s Hospital of Illinois. He was sedated life, vocation, and Catholic faith at her website A Knotted Life. Reprinted with permission from the it contained all the official teachings of the Catholic God’s grace,” would say another. This did not sound right and put on a ventilator and everyone expected that he Truth and Charity Forum (www.truthandcharityforum.org). Church. I knew I wanted it. No, I knew I needed it. to me, but I did not know how to defend it. So to finally

8 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 9 Like the ambulance medics, the ED team and NICU nurses gave him doses of epinephrine to restart his heart but nothing worked. He was cold and still. The nurses and doctors were hoping James would come alive long enough for me to say “good-bye.” supply. My son was stillborn. My midwife whisked him would die shortly due to massive organ failure from the By Bob Rice from my arms and, not finding a pulse, she and the birth severe lack of oxygen. They did not know if he would live assistant began CPR. Travis looked around the room and through the night, but he probably would not live through found my cup. After dipping his fingers in the ice water the weekend and definitely not through the week.T he he trickled the water on James’ forehead, making the hospital chaplain came and confirmed James;T ravis and remember looking down and seeing sign of the cross with his thumb, and proclaiming out I went home and asked people to pray. Using e-mail, blood on my hands. My head was loud, “James Fulton, I baptize you in the Name of the Facebook, and my blog, we asked people to pray for a still spinning from the line of drugs Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” miracle for our son: that his body be healed and that that I snorted in the bathroom. A A friend, who had been photographing the birth, he be spared any brain damage. We specifically asked prostitute was face down on the called 911 as I sat on my bedroom floor going into people to ask for Archbishop Sheen’s intercession and all Ibed, murdered. Did I do it? I could not shock. One of my few memories is of repeating Fulton over the country and the world people responded. People remember. I heard sirens outside and Sheen’s name in my head while I watched. I could not prayed, and we believe Sheen prayed with us and that his footsteps running up the stairs to my gather eloquent words to beg God for my son’s life or to prayers were an integral part of what happened. And what apartment. That was the moment that I implore the Archbishop to intercede for my stillborn son. happened was that James lived. He lived and he healed realized I needed a Savior. I needed Jesus. Calling Sheen’s name in my mind was the only prayer I and this past fall he turned two. In the NICU we were told Okay, none of that is true. could say; I suppose I trusted he would know the words that if James lived, he would be so severely disabled that Truth be told, I have a very boring to say to God to bring me back my son. he would remain in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. conversion story: I always loved Jesus. And First responders and paramedics arrived. They cut James would be unable to control his body, fed through a then I loved Him more. James’ umbilical cord, bundled him up against the cold tube, and mentally vacant. I was the good kid. Never drank. Never September night, and took him to the hospital. In the Instead he is just like every other little boy: he is did drugs. Knew to save sex for marriage. ambulance James was hooked to a heart monitor, which cute and ornery, loves trains and playing outside, and he In fact, I lived in fear of letting others down: showed pulseless electrical activity. James’ heart was still devours chicken nuggets. Even the things that set him my parents, my teachers, or even God. I was sending out electrical impulses, but it was not beating. apart – allergies and a speech delay—are completely a straight A student and prayed every night. His heart was not pumping blood to his organs, so his common, even amongst boys who were not considered So it might not be a surprise when I tell you body was not getting oxygen. When James and Travis dead for over an hour. Because my family believes that that one of the most exciting moments in my arrived at the emergency department (ED) there were James was miraculously healed by Jesus Christ through conversion is when I did something that many several nurse practitioners from the neonatal intensive the intercession of Fulton Sheen we contacted the Sheen consider boring: I read the Catechism. care unit (NICU) waiting for him. Like the ambulance Foundation, who opened an investigative tribunal in Last October marked the 20th anniversary medics, the ED team and NICU nurses gave him doses of September 2011. of the release of the Catechism of the Catholic epinephrine to restart his heart but nothing worked. He When Sheen was declared Venerable by Pope Church, but the English translation was released was cold and still. The nurses and doctors were hoping Emeritus Benedict XVI on June 28, 2012, the findings in the spring of 1994. I was living in Orlando, You see, though James would come alive long enough for me to say from James’ tribunal were submitted to the Vatican along Florida, at the time, bouncing between two jobs. much of my family was Catholic and I attended “good-bye.” One of the nurse practitioners was speaking with two other cases. God willing, there is a chance my Some evenings I would play in bars with my band, “The Catholic schools, I never really felt like I knew for certain on a phone to the on-call neonatologist, updating her son’s alleged healing could be declared a true miracle, Crowd.” Other evenings I worked at an improvisational what Catholicism was all about. The only time I heard on the situation. “Try for five more minutes and then call thus allowing for Venerable Sheen to be beatified. It is comedy club. No matter what I did I was usually out until about the Eucharist was in a Humanities class when the it,” the doctor said. She did not really think the five more all very exciting and for many reasons my husband and one or two in the morning, followed by a late night/early teacher asked, “Do you realize that the Catholic Church minutes would help; the five minutes were so they could I hope and pray that Fulton Sheen is beatified and then morning snack at the only restaurant in the area opened teaches that the Eucharist is the actual body and blood tell us they had tried everything they could to save our canonized. But in the end, more than anything else, we 24 hours—IHOP. of Christ, not just a symbol? How many of you believe son. They worked on James for five more minutes and his are just grateful for the miracle of life and the gift of our Getting home at 3AM, I would turn on the TV and that?” And none of us raised our hands because we had heart sat still. They stopped their efforts to call the time son, James Fulton. watch CNN, the only thing that was on. And one evening/ never heard that before. of death, but just as they did his heart began to beat morning they reported that the Catechism of the Catholic I had been blessed to have many friends who were again. After being without a pulse for sixty-one minutes, Church was coming out on Tuesday, the first time the Protestant, all of whom professed at times to know what James Fulton came back to life. BONNIE ENGSTROM is a stay-at-home mom. She and her husband live in central Illinois with their Catholic Church had a universal catechism in 500 years. Catholics believed. “You Catholics worship Mary,” one James was transferred to the NICU a couple of floors four children. She is a columnist for Ignitum Today (www.ignitumtoday.com) and writes about her I did not know what a “Catechism” was, but apparently would say. “You think you’re saved by what you do, not by up at the Children’s Hospital of Illinois. He was sedated life, vocation, and Catholic faith at her website A Knotted Life. Reprinted with permission from the it contained all the official teachings of the Catholic God’s grace,” would say another. This did not sound right and put on a ventilator and everyone expected that he Truth and Charity Forum (www.truthandcharityforum.org). Church. I knew I wanted it. No, I knew I needed it. to me, but I did not know how to defend it. So to finally

8 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 9 started asking me things: Why did the Word become flesh? What is the purpose of life? Why do our prayers A Lifetime go unanswered sometimes? As I read the answers, I grew deeper in my faith and fell more in love with the Catholic Church. If you asked me what I believed before the Catechism came out, I would have said I was a Christian who happened to go to a Commitment By Joe Sebastian Catholic parish. But after reading the Catechism, I was Catholic. I will never forget going to Holy Thursday Mass a few weeks after I Perhaps the hardest part of being a Catholic is find their true purpose in all areas of their lives. So these began reading the Catechism. They living the faith in every moment of our lives. On a young people strove to lead a lifestyle that motivated processed the Eucharist around Pdaily basis, our minds are consumed by juggling them to discover and live the teachings and truth of the The answers made a lot of sense to me. the Church and reposed it in the family schedules, ensuring bills are paid, remembering Catholic Church. In the course of their daily lives, they It was like this book could articulate the Eucharistic Chapel. I followed it, fell to put gas in the car, dealing with difficult co-workers, invited others to do the same. From these ideas, began to my knees, and wept. All I could buying birthday gifts, trying to find where the foul odor the Jesus Youth (JY) movement. When those involved in things I always believed but never could say was, “You are God, You are God, in the garage is coming from, and the list goes on. Our JY began immigrating to foreign countries for work or You are God…” to-do list is filled to the brim; sometimes, even Sunday studies they brought their lifestyle and the movement explain. But once I had my questions And it was all because of the Mass is scheduled in to fit around our other activities. with them. In the early years of JY in the United States answered, it started asking me things… Catechism. When youth across numerous colleges in the state (98/99), Teema Thomas was just beginning her teen I know some people only use the of Kerala, India, began Jesus Youth almost 28 years years. Stemming from a strong Catholic family, Teema Catechism to get answers to things ago, they had a specific intent in mind—they wanted the and her two sisters were blessed with a foundation in the get the low down on what the Church actually taught that they are confused about. That is not a bad place faith, a faith centered in Christ, to become a lifestyle. faith instilled by their parents. But it was only when she was really exciting. I made sure on Monday night to set to start. But do not just use the Catechism to get your The young people recognized that if they gave credence met a JY that she was introduced to Christ as a personal my alarm to get up early and head to my local Christian questions answered—let it teach you about the faith. At to being a successful musician or engineer or nurse, friend. Teema loved the community culture promoted by bookstore to get the Catechism. But here was the thing— the end of every section is a summary of what it just that their lives would reflect those ideals. On the other the movement and thrived in the fellowship of JY. She my local Christian bookstore did not carry it. “You should taught titled, “IN BRIEF.” Start there. Make it a habit of hand, if their lives were centered on Christ they would began to learn about the teachings of the Church and try a Catholic bookstore,” the woman at the counter said. your daily prayer to read just one IN BRIEF, and watch had an active personal prayer life. There are Catholic bookstores? This shows you how out how your understanding of the faith deepens. Teema began centering her life on of the loop I was. So I drove around in haste to find my The whole purpose of the Catechism is not to fill your Teema and her Christ starting in middle school and local Catholic bookstore. I was worried, assuming that head with religious trivia about what Catholics believe. husband, Matthew throughout high school. every Catholic in Florida watched CNN and would buy up It is to help you experience “the love that never ends” Teema moved away for college all the Catechisms before I could get one. (CCC 25). Blessed John Paul II once said that the aim and as the years went by she drifted I eventually found “The Abbey Catholic Bookstore” in of catechesis is “to put people, not only in touch with, from her prayer life and support from a strip mall squeezed between a pharmacy and a party but in intimacy with Jesus Christ.” And Cardinal Christoph JY. Teema became absorbed in her supply shop. It was so small that it felt more like a closet Schönborn, who was one of its primary editors, said that studies and centered on a career than a store. I remember lots of dark wood, crammed the Catechism was “a blueprint for the heart of Christ.” lifestyle. “I am not saying that these shelves, and no windows. But there on the counter was a Thanks to some wonderful Protestants who reached are bad things,” she says, “But these stack of the book I coveted… Catechism of the Catholic out to me in high school, I already had a deep love for became my only focus at the cost Church. I was clearly the first person to get one that day. Scripture. But reading the Catechism side-by-side with of my faith. I can even remember, Immediately I bought it and took it home. I could not the Bible (70 percent of the Catechism’s footnotes are at one point, dusting off my Bible wait to read it. I sat on my couch and looked through the Scripture) transformed me and has made me the man I because I had not opened it in so index. There were some immediate questions I wanted am today. long!” Looking back Teema realizes to know the answer to: Was the Eucharist really the I know that my life was never the same after reading that throughout her college years she body and blood of Christ? (Answer: yes!) Do we really the Catechism. And I am confident that if you start to had felt emptiness; she just did not worship Mary? (Answer: not in the same way we adore read it, your life will never be the same either. It is a great know how to get out of it. Christ.) And what does the Church actually teach about thing to do during this Year of Faith. Considering several job offers, sex? (Answer: Uh… you should just read it yourself!) The she chose one in New York City, answers made a lot of sense to me. It was like this book BOB RICE (www.bob-rice.com) is an educator at the Franciscan which allowed her to live at home could articulate the things I always believed but never University of Steubenville in Steubenville, Ohio (www.franciscan.edu). in New Jersey. Being back with the could explain. But once I had my questions answered, it He and his wife are parents to seven children. JY community served to re-energize

10 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 11 started asking me things: Why did the Word become flesh? What is the purpose of life? Why do our prayers A Lifetime go unanswered sometimes? As I read the answers, I grew deeper in my faith and fell more in love with the Catholic Church. If you asked me what I believed before the Catechism came out, I would have said I was a Christian who happened to go to a Commitment By Joe Sebastian Catholic parish. But after reading the Catechism, I was Catholic. I will never forget going to Holy Thursday Mass a few weeks after I Perhaps the hardest part of being a Catholic is find their true purpose in all areas of their lives. So these began reading the Catechism. They living the faith in every moment of our lives. On a young people strove to lead a lifestyle that motivated processed the Eucharist around Pdaily basis, our minds are consumed by juggling them to discover and live the teachings and truth of the The answers made a lot of sense to me. the Church and reposed it in the family schedules, ensuring bills are paid, remembering Catholic Church. In the course of their daily lives, they It was like this book could articulate the Eucharistic Chapel. I followed it, fell to put gas in the car, dealing with difficult co-workers, invited others to do the same. From these ideas, began to my knees, and wept. All I could buying birthday gifts, trying to find where the foul odor the Jesus Youth (JY) movement. When those involved in things I always believed but never could say was, “You are God, You are God, in the garage is coming from, and the list goes on. Our JY began immigrating to foreign countries for work or You are God…” to-do list is filled to the brim; sometimes, even Sunday studies they brought their lifestyle and the movement explain. But once I had my questions And it was all because of the Mass is scheduled in to fit around our other activities. with them. In the early years of JY in the United States answered, it started asking me things… Catechism. When youth across numerous colleges in the state (98/99), Teema Thomas was just beginning her teen I know some people only use the of Kerala, India, began Jesus Youth almost 28 years years. Stemming from a strong Catholic family, Teema Catechism to get answers to things ago, they had a specific intent in mind—they wanted the and her two sisters were blessed with a foundation in the get the low down on what the Church actually taught that they are confused about. That is not a bad place faith, a faith centered in Christ, to become a lifestyle. faith instilled by their parents. But it was only when she was really exciting. I made sure on Monday night to set to start. But do not just use the Catechism to get your The young people recognized that if they gave credence met a JY that she was introduced to Christ as a personal my alarm to get up early and head to my local Christian questions answered—let it teach you about the faith. At to being a successful musician or engineer or nurse, friend. Teema loved the community culture promoted by bookstore to get the Catechism. But here was the thing— the end of every section is a summary of what it just that their lives would reflect those ideals. On the other the movement and thrived in the fellowship of JY. She my local Christian bookstore did not carry it. “You should taught titled, “IN BRIEF.” Start there. Make it a habit of hand, if their lives were centered on Christ they would began to learn about the teachings of the Church and try a Catholic bookstore,” the woman at the counter said. your daily prayer to read just one IN BRIEF, and watch had an active personal prayer life. There are Catholic bookstores? This shows you how out how your understanding of the faith deepens. Teema began centering her life on of the loop I was. So I drove around in haste to find my The whole purpose of the Catechism is not to fill your Teema and her Christ starting in middle school and local Catholic bookstore. I was worried, assuming that head with religious trivia about what Catholics believe. husband, Matthew throughout high school. every Catholic in Florida watched CNN and would buy up It is to help you experience “the love that never ends” Teema moved away for college all the Catechisms before I could get one. (CCC 25). Blessed John Paul II once said that the aim and as the years went by she drifted I eventually found “The Abbey Catholic Bookstore” in of catechesis is “to put people, not only in touch with, from her prayer life and support from a strip mall squeezed between a pharmacy and a party but in intimacy with Jesus Christ.” And Cardinal Christoph JY. Teema became absorbed in her supply shop. It was so small that it felt more like a closet Schönborn, who was one of its primary editors, said that studies and centered on a career than a store. I remember lots of dark wood, crammed the Catechism was “a blueprint for the heart of Christ.” lifestyle. “I am not saying that these shelves, and no windows. But there on the counter was a Thanks to some wonderful Protestants who reached are bad things,” she says, “But these stack of the book I coveted… Catechism of the Catholic out to me in high school, I already had a deep love for became my only focus at the cost Church. I was clearly the first person to get one that day. Scripture. But reading the Catechism side-by-side with of my faith. I can even remember, Immediately I bought it and took it home. I could not the Bible (70 percent of the Catechism’s footnotes are at one point, dusting off my Bible wait to read it. I sat on my couch and looked through the Scripture) transformed me and has made me the man I because I had not opened it in so index. There were some immediate questions I wanted am today. long!” Looking back Teema realizes to know the answer to: Was the Eucharist really the I know that my life was never the same after reading that throughout her college years she body and blood of Christ? (Answer: yes!) Do we really the Catechism. And I am confident that if you start to had felt emptiness; she just did not worship Mary? (Answer: not in the same way we adore read it, your life will never be the same either. It is a great know how to get out of it. Christ.) And what does the Church actually teach about thing to do during this Year of Faith. Considering several job offers, sex? (Answer: Uh… you should just read it yourself!) The she chose one in New York City, answers made a lot of sense to me. It was like this book BOB RICE (www.bob-rice.com) is an educator at the Franciscan which allowed her to live at home could articulate the things I always believed but never University of Steubenville in Steubenville, Ohio (www.franciscan.edu). in New Jersey. Being back with the could explain. But once I had my questions answered, it He and his wife are parents to seven children. JY community served to re-energize

10 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 11 “We do not just give to the Lord when it against the front of our house, I was happy not only to have a brother, but also a new friend. is convenient or easy for us, we need to At a routine dental exam the summer before he give Him our best at all times.” began kindergarten, the dentist discovered no root growth under Michael’s molars. The dentist recommended that our pediatrician run a few tests to explain the by families who lived the JY lifestyle. Fulltimers do not unusual condition. A few initial tests snowballed into receive any stipend and truly walk in the footsteps of a futile quest for answers at our local hospital and Christ, living with what they are given. Teema was placed then the University of Minnesota. Each new doctor that in California for three months, in Melbourne, Australia, for examined Michael become more puzzled than the last six months, and three months in Florida. She completed with Michael’s developing status. Even with an active T eema’s faith. She turned towards prayer again, getting her time by assisting in the 25th Jubilee Conference for childhood, Michael’s hips and legs began to cause involved in JY prayer groups and retreats. She felt the Jesus Youth movement in India, in December 2010. him discomfort, and the doctors also found signs of herself getting out of the empty hole she had been in As a fulltimer, Teema’s days were centered on future kidney failure. In the midst of this confusing time, for four years. personal prayer, Scripture study, HolyMass, and Michael’s bright and bubbly personality showed no sign It was this reawakening that reminded her of a Adoration. The remainder of the time was dedicated to of turmoil or hesitancy. As a six-year-old boy, he should promise she had made in high school, “I had promised meeting with youth who were either involved or had an have been building with Legos and playing with friends. the Lord that when I graduated from college, I would do introduction to JY. Teema would speak with them and But instead, Michael was preparing to transition into a a fulltimership with JY.” A fulltimer volunteers one-year share her story and faith; she would often pray with wheelchair and realizing that his life would never be the of their life for the Jesus Youth movement. But that was them. She would direct the youth to elders (older JY same. in 2009 and the recession in the United States was in brothers and sisters in the movement who understood Finally when Michael was seven, a neurologist full swing. At a time when people were losing their jobs the daily life and efforts of the movement) or to spiritual diagnosed him with an extremely rare and right and left, Teema was considering leaving a stable, directors in JY. But fulltimership did not end for Teema virtually unknown genetic disorder called Schimke well-paying one. Needless to say, some thought she after one year. As she says, the training has a motto: Immunoosseous Dysplasia. I did not fully comprehend was crazy. As she seriously considered fulltimership, she “One month of training, one year of formation, and a at the time that only 4 out of the 29 diagnosed cases turned towards the JY community and requested their lifetime of commitment.” Teema says, “It was only after prayers. But it was her older sister Tisha’s words that my one year of fulltimership that my missionary work helped her make the final decision, “We do not just give truly began.” to the Lord when it is convenient or easy for us, we need After returning home, Teema got a job and continued to give Him our best at all times.” So Teema resigned her missionary work in her daily life. JY is her lifestyle her job and went to Thailand for one-month of training. and at work she found ways to share her faith with A Light in the Dark The training was one of the best experiences of her life. colleagues. She is now married and residing in Colorado By Jessica Zimanske It offered daily Mass, Adoration, studies on Scripture, with her husband. She continues her mission to share Church doctrines and evangelization—it built a great Jesus at work, home, and with friends. She strives to foundation in the faith. Unable to control her emotion, continue living in Christ in a new family setting, praying y parents always joked that I was meant to be had lived to adulthood. The five components of Schimke she says, “In that training, I felt how much the Lord loves and discerning where God will guide her next. an only child. Even at an early age, my strong were presented to my family. The vascular abnormalities me…and I felt unworthy of His love. I did not feel that Mpersonality was evident. When my brother, and hip dysfunction explained Michael’s Transient I deserved His love….But it was His love that qualified Michael, was born when I was three years old, my life Ischemic Attack (TIA) mini-stroke episodes and growing me.” Christ’s love for her was overwhelmingly present as an only child came hastily to an end. He was born hip pain. The other aspects associated with Schimke during her training. When she was 23, Teema was ready premature and spent the first two years of his life, much patients seemed irrelevant at the time although the to live out God’s mission for her. But soon after her return to my dismay, crying. The peace that I valued even at a doctors warned about future problems. Our family’s life from training to the US, she was diagnosed with thyroid young age was stolen from me, and many times I could changed as Michael life changed. My parents had to cancer. As she says, “If I had known I had cancer before only find solace in the confines of a closet, huddled over be concerned with wheelchair accessible entrances, the training, my reaction to it would have been different. a book with a flashlight. endless doctor appointments, and the pile of medical With the foundation I received at training, I considered As time passed, the crying spells slowly tapered off bills that grew with every biopsy or procedure that it a blessing. It was, for me, a time of purification.”T he and as Michael grew, so did our relationship. We would Michael underwent. We pushed through, however, and prayerful support of her family, friends, JY community, and create forts in our basement out of blankets, chairs, and despite Michael’s disabilities, he continued to smile his fellow fulltimers, and, most importantly, her unwavering a few strategically placed clothes pins. In the summer, trademark goofy grin and giggle at even the corniest of faith in God guided her through this difficult time.T eema we would spend the afternoon playing on our swing set jokes. had surgery to remove the cancer, spent the following or drawing shapes on the driveway with bright chalk. Several years later, in October 2003, Michael grew three months recovering at home, and then began her When Michael started reading, I coached him how to say very ill and while at the hospital, the doctors confirmed fulltimership. Fulltimers in the JY movement usually stay those difficult three-syllable words and when Michael what they had warned us years prior, that my thirteen- with families involved in the movement who provide played tee ball, I was the first person he ran to after he year-old brother’s kidneys were failing. The only word food, shelter, guidance, and spiritual support. It was an To find out more about the esusJ Youth movement to visit www.JesusYouth.org, and for those made it to home base. Despite the occasional temper that I could comprehend was “failing.” Failing. After that incredible blessing for Teema to witness and be formed interested in finding out where their local JY community is, they can e-mail [email protected]. tantrum and the time that he smashed my Skip-It moment, Michael’s life and our family’s life spiraled into

12 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 13 “We do not just give to the Lord when it against the front of our house, I was happy not only to have a brother, but also a new friend. is convenient or easy for us, we need to At a routine dental exam the summer before he give Him our best at all times.” began kindergarten, the dentist discovered no root growth under Michael’s molars. The dentist recommended that our pediatrician run a few tests to explain the by families who lived the JY lifestyle. Fulltimers do not unusual condition. A few initial tests snowballed into receive any stipend and truly walk in the footsteps of a futile quest for answers at our local hospital and Christ, living with what they are given. Teema was placed then the University of Minnesota. Each new doctor that in California for three months, in Melbourne, Australia, for examined Michael become more puzzled than the last six months, and three months in Florida. She completed with Michael’s developing status. Even with an active T eema’s faith. She turned towards prayer again, getting her time by assisting in the 25th Jubilee Conference for childhood, Michael’s hips and legs began to cause involved in JY prayer groups and retreats. She felt the Jesus Youth movement in India, in December 2010. him discomfort, and the doctors also found signs of herself getting out of the empty hole she had been in As a fulltimer, Teema’s days were centered on future kidney failure. In the midst of this confusing time, for four years. personal prayer, Scripture study, HolyMass, and Michael’s bright and bubbly personality showed no sign It was this reawakening that reminded her of a Adoration. The remainder of the time was dedicated to of turmoil or hesitancy. As a six-year-old boy, he should promise she had made in high school, “I had promised meeting with youth who were either involved or had an have been building with Legos and playing with friends. the Lord that when I graduated from college, I would do introduction to JY. Teema would speak with them and But instead, Michael was preparing to transition into a a fulltimership with JY.” A fulltimer volunteers one-year share her story and faith; she would often pray with wheelchair and realizing that his life would never be the of their life for the Jesus Youth movement. But that was them. She would direct the youth to elders (older JY same. in 2009 and the recession in the United States was in brothers and sisters in the movement who understood Finally when Michael was seven, a neurologist full swing. At a time when people were losing their jobs the daily life and efforts of the movement) or to spiritual diagnosed him with an extremely rare and right and left, Teema was considering leaving a stable, directors in JY. But fulltimership did not end for Teema virtually unknown genetic disorder called Schimke well-paying one. Needless to say, some thought she after one year. As she says, the training has a motto: Immunoosseous Dysplasia. I did not fully comprehend was crazy. As she seriously considered fulltimership, she “One month of training, one year of formation, and a at the time that only 4 out of the 29 diagnosed cases turned towards the JY community and requested their lifetime of commitment.” Teema says, “It was only after prayers. But it was her older sister Tisha’s words that my one year of fulltimership that my missionary work helped her make the final decision, “We do not just give truly began.” to the Lord when it is convenient or easy for us, we need After returning home, Teema got a job and continued to give Him our best at all times.” So Teema resigned her missionary work in her daily life. JY is her lifestyle her job and went to Thailand for one-month of training. and at work she found ways to share her faith with A Light in the Dark The training was one of the best experiences of her life. colleagues. She is now married and residing in Colorado By Jessica Zimanske It offered daily Mass, Adoration, studies on Scripture, with her husband. She continues her mission to share Church doctrines and evangelization—it built a great Jesus at work, home, and with friends. She strives to foundation in the faith. Unable to control her emotion, continue living in Christ in a new family setting, praying y parents always joked that I was meant to be had lived to adulthood. The five components of Schimke she says, “In that training, I felt how much the Lord loves and discerning where God will guide her next. an only child. Even at an early age, my strong were presented to my family. The vascular abnormalities me…and I felt unworthy of His love. I did not feel that Mpersonality was evident. When my brother, and hip dysfunction explained Michael’s Transient I deserved His love….But it was His love that qualified Michael, was born when I was three years old, my life Ischemic Attack (TIA) mini-stroke episodes and growing me.” Christ’s love for her was overwhelmingly present as an only child came hastily to an end. He was born hip pain. The other aspects associated with Schimke during her training. When she was 23, Teema was ready premature and spent the first two years of his life, much patients seemed irrelevant at the time although the to live out God’s mission for her. But soon after her return to my dismay, crying. The peace that I valued even at a doctors warned about future problems. Our family’s life from training to the US, she was diagnosed with thyroid young age was stolen from me, and many times I could changed as Michael life changed. My parents had to cancer. As she says, “If I had known I had cancer before only find solace in the confines of a closet, huddled over be concerned with wheelchair accessible entrances, the training, my reaction to it would have been different. a book with a flashlight. endless doctor appointments, and the pile of medical With the foundation I received at training, I considered As time passed, the crying spells slowly tapered off bills that grew with every biopsy or procedure that it a blessing. It was, for me, a time of purification.”T he and as Michael grew, so did our relationship. We would Michael underwent. We pushed through, however, and prayerful support of her family, friends, JY community, and create forts in our basement out of blankets, chairs, and despite Michael’s disabilities, he continued to smile his fellow fulltimers, and, most importantly, her unwavering a few strategically placed clothes pins. In the summer, trademark goofy grin and giggle at even the corniest of faith in God guided her through this difficult time.T eema we would spend the afternoon playing on our swing set jokes. had surgery to remove the cancer, spent the following or drawing shapes on the driveway with bright chalk. Several years later, in October 2003, Michael grew three months recovering at home, and then began her When Michael started reading, I coached him how to say very ill and while at the hospital, the doctors confirmed fulltimership. Fulltimers in the JY movement usually stay those difficult three-syllable words and when Michael what they had warned us years prior, that my thirteen- with families involved in the movement who provide played tee ball, I was the first person he ran to after he year-old brother’s kidneys were failing. The only word food, shelter, guidance, and spiritual support. It was an To find out more about the esusJ Youth movement to visit www.JesusYouth.org, and for those made it to home base. Despite the occasional temper that I could comprehend was “failing.” Failing. After that incredible blessing for Teema to witness and be formed interested in finding out where their local JY community is, they can e-mail [email protected]. tantrum and the time that he smashed my Skip-It moment, Michael’s life and our family’s life spiraled into

12 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 13 What I do know is that God had an even greater plan for Michael than he had for himself. That is also true for each one of us. Jessica and her brother, Michael THE CALL F AthER JEREMY LEATHERBY By Gigi Cherian

to know about Mary. She responded, “Father, because she means the a whirlwind. The basement of the University of Minnesota world to me. I’ve always had a great and tender love for hospital grew to be our second home as Michael her. When I was two my father died. And when I was six, I underwent dialysis four times a week. Through this, I was orphaned when my mother suddenly passed away. I supported him as best I could. I attempted to distract was put into a Catholic orphanage, and I was devastated. him with meaningless games of cards and comedic The firstS unday at Mass, I cried and cried during the movies. I plastered a smile on my face, but Michael and warmth from his hands vanished, leaving them bitter Mass—until the priest began his homily. He spoke so I both knew that there was no reason to smile once we cold. I spoke of my brother’s perseverance and faith beautifully about Our Lady. After Mass, I felt compelled entered through those doors. As his blood was filtered when I delivered the eulogy at his funeral. In death, my to go to the statue of Our Lady. I knelt down before her over and over again, Michael began showing externally thirteen-year-old brother broke free from the chains and I looked up into her eyes and I made a deal with what his body felt internally. Dark rings encircled his once of hospitals, doctors, and handicaps. In those heart- her. I said to her, ‘Mary, your son never had a sister. And glistening green eyes. His tan skin faded into a sallow wrenching moments, I was blind to the possible reasons I no longer have a mother. I promise that I will be your white, and his body weight dipped to an inhuman thirty- behind God’s will for our lives. Years after that surreal son’s sister all the days of my life if you will be a mother three pounds. The machine caused him pain that was day, however, as an only child once again, I look and see to me.” previously foreign to me. As screaming would fill my ears, God’s hand on Michael and our family. What I do know Two hours before she died, this 82-year old woman I wanted to rip those cords right from his catheter. is that God had an even greater plan for Michael than said, “Father, in my entire life, she has never failed Through the bitter disappointment of reentering the he had for himself. That is also true for each one of us. me.” For Father Jeremy Leatherby, once Blessed Mother dialysis unit every other day, my brother remained steady, We can plan out our lives with the most intricate details entered his own heart, she has never failed him either. focused, and hopeful. After ten months of excruciating from who we will marry to where we will live and how pain and three cancelled transplant appointments, many kids we will have. Yet, whether we know it or not, Opening the heart to grace Michael received new life from our Aunt Marilyn when God will work in us and through us to fulfill His perfect Jeremy Leatherby’s parents were each one of ten siblings she donated a kidney to him on August 30, 2004. We plan. During life’s trials, He is conditioning us, breaking n one of his first emergency calls as a priest, Father born into Catholic families and raised in California. As had renewed hope for the future, void of the dialysis us, so we can be better and more complete warriors for Jeremy Leatherby was requested to offer the Anointing his parents grew, they drifted away from the faith. In machine. The months after the transplant were difficult, Him and His work. In Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he Iof the Sick to an elderly woman on her deathbed. Upon his childhood, Leatherby’s family were merely Sunday dotted with several hospital stays to fight infection.T hen, encourages us to put on the full armor of God so that we entering her room, Father Leatherby had an overwhelming Catholics. Once out of church walls, theirs was a home of at the end of February, Michael entered the hospital can stand tall against that adversity. feeling that he was in the presence of a living saint. As material wealth that was spiritually barren. As Leatherby for the last time. During a lymph node biopsy, Michael I am eternally thankful for Michael and for the he says, “I sensed her goodness. I sensed her holiness.” says, “By the time I was five, prayer was done. I saw a went into cardiac arrest multiple times. The doctors were countless joys and happiness he brought to my life. I Immediately a question arose in his mind and he said to rosary for the first time when I was twelve years old. able to revive him but had to keep him heavily sedated am even more thankful to my Creator for showing me a himself, “I wonder how this woman became so holy?” When you walked into our home, you would have no idea to access the damage. For two weeks, I sat at his side little piece of Himself for the thirteen years that Michael Looking at him, she asked, “Can I make a request that we were Christians, let alone Catholics. There was no wondering what was to come and why God would not breathed life on this earth, bestowing in me a new sense before I receive the Sacraments? Father, will you speak crucifix or statues of the Saints.” Yet, attending Sunday take Michael home. Then on Thursday, March 10, 2005, I of compassion. Only when Michael greets me at the to me about Mary?” Father Leatherby was taken aback Mass perhaps allowed for Leatherby’s parents hearts watched as his breathing slowed and later stopped. gates of paradise will I finally know the vastness of God’s by the question. After all, who on her deathbed asks such to be open to the Lord’s grace when it came. His father “I’m so proud of you, Michael,” I whispered as the purpose. a question? Nevertheless, Father Leatherby spoke about had a profound reversion prompted by reading about the Church’s teachings on Mary and his own devotion to and visiting Medjugorje. Nearly seven years later, through JESSICA ZIMANSKE (www.JessicaZimanske.com) is a marketing professional and award-winning freelance writer from Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is a lifelong resident of the Twin her, as well as her apparitions throughout the centuries. Blessed Mother’s intercession, his mother also accepted Cities and loves experiencing everything the Land of 10,000 Lakes has to offer. She also enjoys volunteering as a grief group facilitator and cheering on the Minnesota Twins. After he finished, he asked the woman why she wanted Christ as the center of her life.

14 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 15 What I do know is that God had an even greater plan for Michael than he had for himself. That is also true for each one of us. Jessica and her brother, Michael THE CALL F AthER JEREMY LEATHERBY By Gigi Cherian

14 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 15 studies at the University of Notre Dame. His older sister, Kimberly, was also a student there and was the only person Leatherby knew. Inspired by her parent’s reversion, Kimberly had embraced the Catholic faith earlier than her three younger siblings. At Notre Dame, she was part of a prayer group and attended Mass daily. In order to join her for dinner every evening, Leatherby had to attend Mass with his sister. By the end of his first semester, daily Mass and rosary were a part of his life. During his second semester, Leatherby renewed his Consecration. He had half-heartedly done the Consecration in high school. But this time, he did it fully and with great devotion. It was during this time that he began to have a great desire for the priesthood. On the last day of the Consecration, he knelt down in a grotto meant to resemble the one in Lourdes, looked up into the eyes of the Blessed Mother, and asked, “Mary, is what I am feeling in my heart real? Am I truly called to be a priest? Suddenly, a voice deep within, a voice that he

Hearing God’s Call For the next two days, he hardly slept. As But Leatherby’s path to God took a little longer, and during the course of it Our Lady was always present. After he says, “I felt like I was so on fire with The Art of his reversion, his father would often leave books about the Holy Spirit! I knew in that moment the faith for the teenage Leatherby, who would barely glance at it before storing it on the shelf to collect dust. and to this day that I am supposed to be One day, however, his father left for him Saint Louis de Montfort’s “Total Consecration to Jesus Christ Through a priest. I know with absolute certitude. It Mary.” Leatherby’s father, after his return from Medjugorje Catholic would always tear up whenever he heard Our Lady’s was a gift that Our Lady gave me.” name. Leatherby knew that his father had a great love and respect for her. So this time, instead of just being had never heard before and was not his own, said YES. A delegated to the back of the shelf, Leatherby opened up peace immediately filled him. the book to read. For the next two days, he hardly slept. As he says, As he says, “What’s the first thing that our Lord did “I felt like I was so on fire with the Holy Spirit! I knew Meditation when he came into this world? He abandoned Himself in that moment and to this day that I am supposed to totally to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He could not have lived be a priest. I know with absolute certitude. It was a gift By Matthew Leonard without her. Our Lord could create His mom and make that Our Lady gave me.” In Father Leatherby’s life and her without flaw so that she could bear Him. So, if we, as experience, Our Lady has served as an intercessor for Christians, are called to live in imitation of our Lord and him and those around him. Their devotion to Blessed hort of a miracle, a man who does not practice sparse knowledge of Eastern religions. When the word the first thing that he did was give Himself to Our Lady, Mother have led each to Jesus Christ and the Catholic mental prayer will end up in mortal sin.” Yikes! “meditation” was tossed around, I would imagine some then what better thing can we do?” faith in beautiful ways. She has never failed them. “SThose are pretty scary words from Saint character sitting in the lotus position chanting strange So, amidst partying and drinking, Leatherby said the Alphonsus Ligouri. Of course, one of the reasons it scares words with a far off look in his eyes. Of course, that is prayers for Consecration for thirty-three consecutive days. so many Catholics is that we may not exactly know what not Catholic meditation. The Catechism says that true On the last day, he went and knelt down in the Chapel mental prayer is. At least, that was the case with me. meditative prayer is nothing short of a quest. It is where before the statue of Blessed Mother and gave his life to Mental prayer is another way of saying “meditation,” the “mind seeks to understand the why and how of the Christ. Leatherby prayed, “I want to live my life for your F AthER JEREMY LEATHERBY serves as pastor of Presentation of the and when I first became familiar with the whole idea Christian life, in order to adhere and respond to what the son. Do with me whatever you will.” And then he put the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church (www.presentationparish.org) in of Catholic meditation I confess to being a little wary. Lord is asking” (CCC 2705). In other words, meditation book away and life went on as usual. Sacramento, California. Father Leatherby’s parents and three siblings Coming from an Evangelical Protestant background, is where we ponder the mysteries of Christ so that our A couple of years later, he began his higher education are all daily communicants at the church. my only familiarity with mental prayer came from my relationship with Him grows. Aided by some kind of

16 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 17 studies at the University of Notre Dame. His older sister, Kimberly, was also a student there and was the only person Leatherby knew. Inspired by her parent’s reversion, Kimberly had embraced the Catholic faith earlier than her three younger siblings. At Notre Dame, she was part of a prayer group and attended Mass daily. In order to join her for dinner every evening, Leatherby had to attend Mass with his sister. By the end of his first semester, daily Mass and rosary were a part of his life. During his second semester, Leatherby renewed his Consecration. He had half-heartedly done the Consecration in high school. But this time, he did it fully and with great devotion. It was during this time that he began to have a great desire for the priesthood. On the last day of the Consecration, he knelt down in a grotto meant to resemble the one in Lourdes, looked up into the eyes of the Blessed Mother, and asked, “Mary, is what I am feeling in my heart real? Am I truly called to be a priest? Suddenly, a voice deep within, a voice that he

16 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 17 Do not try to bite off more than you can chew. In the beginning it will be really hard. We are not used to being quiet (or still!). Many of us would rather dig a ditch than spend a few minutes of silence with our Lord. Proclaim His spiritual input, we enter into an interior conversation with Oftentimes, meditation combines all of these kinds Marvelous Deeds our Lord. of reactions and more. One way or the other, these inner There are essentially three different stages, or kinds, responses to God are the heart of meditation. But there By Elizabeth Dart Languell of prayer: vocal, meditative, and contemplative. Most is one more step to consider. The goal of prayer is always of us have been doing vocal prayer from the time we our perfection. It is always about becoming more like were little. Contemplation, the highest stage of prayer, Christ. So having a conversation with God is not enough. is something which is received from God. We can only It must lead to action. When we are moved by the glory prepare for it through meditation and virtuous living. of God or feel convicted about certain areas, we must eclare His Glory among the the Baptism of the Holy Spirit on Easter Sunday in 1971. Meditation is an interior prayer. It is a quiet conversation do more than simply acknowledge it. We have to resolve nations, His marvelous deeds I had never experienced such joy or felt such a deep, between us and God. (That being said, vocal prayer can to actually work on the areas that Christ is showing are “Damong all peoples” (Psalm close, personal relationship with the Lord as when the become meditative prayer when we are really focused on deficient.T he wonderful thing is that Christ knows that 96:3). Every life has a story, and God is a power of the Holy Spirit filled my whole being! I received what we are saying). So how can we meditate? Before we cannot simply change ourselves. He is constantly part of every life. Sometimes it is obvious the Gift of Tongues, laughter and a great desire to study we begin, we must remember that Christ is always the showering us with graces to help us conform ourselves to how He is working; in other cases it Scripture and grow in this new spiritual life. I did not plan focus of meditation. He is the center of everything and so Him, to strive for holiness. He even prays for us! Indeed, seems to take a lifetime to understand to tell Jerry about it. But, as he was leaving the next day we focus on Him. We are not trying to “empty our mind” “the Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs too deep how He has always been there. I have on a business trip, I told him of my experience as we like Eastern religions; we are trying to focus on the Christ for words” (Romans 8:26). been so blessed to grow up in a Catholic were driving to the airport. I did not know until several who saves us. Created in His image, we are made to be in family, one block away from a Catholic years later that as I was sharing, I touched Jerry on the The first step is to find a quiet place and a time that relationship with God. Prayer is that relationship. So if Grade School, two blocks from a small shoulder and he felt something like a warm electric works well to pray. I like to pray in the morning because you have not yet begun to practice the art of Catholic Catholic Girls’ High School and three shock pass through his whole body. When he returned my kids are still asleep and I am most alert (after a meditation, now is the time. If you have already begun, blocks from a Catholic Church. I was able from the trip, I found him constantly reading the Bible. double shot espresso, of course). The amount of time great! Now it is time to go deeper. And if you think of it, to go to daily Mass (most of the time). I A few weeks later, Jerry said he wanted to go to the spent in prayer will change, but beginners should start say a prayer for me too! felt very close to the Blessed Mother and prayer meetings with me and he wanted our children to with ten or fifteen minutes. Do not try to bite off more could talk to her about anything. But I join us. than you can chew. In the beginning it will be really hard. had always taken all of this for granted; it In 1974, Jerry took the “Life in the Spirit” Seminar, We are not used to being quiet (or still!). Many of us was just a natural part of my life. was baptized in the Holy Spirit, and it was not long would rather dig a ditch than spend a few minutes of I have been blessed to be surrounded before he received the Sacraments of Baptism, silence with our Lord. But trust me that the more you do by good, loving people who shared my Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation. It is an it, the time starts to whiz by. spiritual values. I fell in love with a wonderful man, Jerry amazing thing to watch faith grow in someone who had The next step in Catholic meditation is to recollect Languell, who I believed was the very best person I never believed that Jesus truly was the Son of God! I yourself; quiet your soul. The spiritual greats suggest all had ever met. However, he was not Catholic: in fact, he was in awe as I watched him take over the Spiritual kinds of ways to do this, such as reading a short passage had never been baptized in any religion. Jerry promised Headship of the family. He prayed with the children, read from the Passion in the Bible (e.g. Matthew 27: 27-61) to help me bring up our children in the Catholic faith, the Bible to them, and we prayed one decade of the or slowly recite a favorite prayer, like the Our Father. The though, and took instructions from a priest the summer Scriptural Rosary after dinner each evening. goal is to put yourself in the presence of God. Once before we were married, not planning to join the Church, We joined a group of four families and a few you have checked your distractions at the door and are but just to know exactly what I believed. Those were young adults every Friday night for dinner, prayer, and focused, you turn to your “spiritual input.” This is normally wonderfully happy days. Jerry had a good job that he spiritual activities with the children. Our lives changed some type of spiritual reading like the Bible, lives of the enjoyed and God blessed us with one daughter and four considerably as the children spent the night with each saints, or some other spiritual literature. Slowly read a sons. I was able to stay at home with our children and other, the men took the boys away for the weekend, and passage and reflect on it for a moment. As you quietly be involved in Church activities. There were opportunities the women took the girls for a weekend at a lake with fun and thoughtfully read, you will discover that your heart to grow spiritually through retreats, classes, special activities and teachings. We celebrated special holidays will begin to respond in different ways depending on speakers and missions at Saint Rita’s Church in Dallas, and other events with this new spiritual family. how God moves you. You might begin to quietly adore or Texas. But I never dreamed there could be so much The Sunday prayer meetings continued to grow, always thank Him for all He has done for you. You may simply more! being under the authority of our local Bishop. In 1973, feel overwhelmed by His love and want to praise Him. In 1966, a friend took me to a few prayer meetings. we made a covenant with the Lord and one another, to Since you have not yet achieved sainthood (call it a Then I went with her to hear a couple of speakers at support each other in living our Christian lives together. guess), He might begin to show you some areas of your MATTHEW LEONARD (www.MatthewSLeonard.com) is an internationally known author and speaker. some Charismatic conferences. I saw something very God gave us the name, “The Christian Community of life which need to improve or certain virtues that might He serves as the Executive Director of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology. His latest book special and deeper than anything I had ever known. After God’s Delight.” Through our prayer meetings, different be lacking, which leads you to sorrow. Louder Than Words: The Art of Living as a Catholic is published by Our Sunday Visitor. taking a few classes called “Life in the Spirit,” I received ministries, activities and services, we have grown in our

18 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 19 Do not try to bite off more than you can chew. In the beginning it will be really hard. We are not used to being quiet (or still!). Many of us would rather dig a ditch than spend a few minutes of silence with our Lord. Proclaim His spiritual input, we enter into an interior conversation with Oftentimes, meditation combines all of these kinds Marvelous Deeds our Lord. of reactions and more. One way or the other, these inner There are essentially three different stages, or kinds, responses to God are the heart of meditation. But there By Elizabeth Dart Languell of prayer: vocal, meditative, and contemplative. Most is one more step to consider. The goal of prayer is always of us have been doing vocal prayer from the time we our perfection. It is always about becoming more like were little. Contemplation, the highest stage of prayer, Christ. So having a conversation with God is not enough. is something which is received from God. We can only It must lead to action. When we are moved by the glory prepare for it through meditation and virtuous living. of God or feel convicted about certain areas, we must eclare His Glory among the the Baptism of the Holy Spirit on Easter Sunday in 1971. Meditation is an interior prayer. It is a quiet conversation do more than simply acknowledge it. We have to resolve nations, His marvelous deeds I had never experienced such joy or felt such a deep, between us and God. (That being said, vocal prayer can to actually work on the areas that Christ is showing are “Damong all peoples” (Psalm close, personal relationship with the Lord as when the become meditative prayer when we are really focused on deficient.T he wonderful thing is that Christ knows that 96:3). Every life has a story, and God is a power of the Holy Spirit filled my whole being! I received what we are saying). So how can we meditate? Before we cannot simply change ourselves. He is constantly part of every life. Sometimes it is obvious the Gift of Tongues, laughter and a great desire to study we begin, we must remember that Christ is always the showering us with graces to help us conform ourselves to how He is working; in other cases it Scripture and grow in this new spiritual life. I did not plan focus of meditation. He is the center of everything and so Him, to strive for holiness. He even prays for us! Indeed, seems to take a lifetime to understand to tell Jerry about it. But, as he was leaving the next day we focus on Him. We are not trying to “empty our mind” “the Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs too deep how He has always been there. I have on a business trip, I told him of my experience as we like Eastern religions; we are trying to focus on the Christ for words” (Romans 8:26). been so blessed to grow up in a Catholic were driving to the airport. I did not know until several who saves us. Created in His image, we are made to be in family, one block away from a Catholic years later that as I was sharing, I touched Jerry on the The first step is to find a quiet place and a time that relationship with God. Prayer is that relationship. So if Grade School, two blocks from a small shoulder and he felt something like a warm electric works well to pray. I like to pray in the morning because you have not yet begun to practice the art of Catholic Catholic Girls’ High School and three shock pass through his whole body. When he returned my kids are still asleep and I am most alert (after a meditation, now is the time. If you have already begun, blocks from a Catholic Church. I was able from the trip, I found him constantly reading the Bible. double shot espresso, of course). The amount of time great! Now it is time to go deeper. And if you think of it, to go to daily Mass (most of the time). I A few weeks later, Jerry said he wanted to go to the spent in prayer will change, but beginners should start say a prayer for me too! felt very close to the Blessed Mother and prayer meetings with me and he wanted our children to with ten or fifteen minutes. Do not try to bite off more could talk to her about anything. But I join us. than you can chew. In the beginning it will be really hard. had always taken all of this for granted; it In 1974, Jerry took the “Life in the Spirit” Seminar, We are not used to being quiet (or still!). Many of us was just a natural part of my life. was baptized in the Holy Spirit, and it was not long would rather dig a ditch than spend a few minutes of I have been blessed to be surrounded before he received the Sacraments of Baptism, silence with our Lord. But trust me that the more you do by good, loving people who shared my Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation. It is an it, the time starts to whiz by. spiritual values. I fell in love with a wonderful man, Jerry amazing thing to watch faith grow in someone who had The next step in Catholic meditation is to recollect Languell, who I believed was the very best person I never believed that Jesus truly was the Son of God! I yourself; quiet your soul. The spiritual greats suggest all had ever met. However, he was not Catholic: in fact, he was in awe as I watched him take over the Spiritual kinds of ways to do this, such as reading a short passage had never been baptized in any religion. Jerry promised Headship of the family. He prayed with the children, read from the Passion in the Bible (e.g. Matthew 27: 27-61) to help me bring up our children in the Catholic faith, the Bible to them, and we prayed one decade of the or slowly recite a favorite prayer, like the Our Father. The though, and took instructions from a priest the summer Scriptural Rosary after dinner each evening. goal is to put yourself in the presence of God. Once before we were married, not planning to join the Church, We joined a group of four families and a few you have checked your distractions at the door and are but just to know exactly what I believed. Those were young adults every Friday night for dinner, prayer, and focused, you turn to your “spiritual input.” This is normally wonderfully happy days. Jerry had a good job that he spiritual activities with the children. Our lives changed some type of spiritual reading like the Bible, lives of the enjoyed and God blessed us with one daughter and four considerably as the children spent the night with each saints, or some other spiritual literature. Slowly read a sons. I was able to stay at home with our children and other, the men took the boys away for the weekend, and passage and reflect on it for a moment. As you quietly be involved in Church activities. There were opportunities the women took the girls for a weekend at a lake with fun and thoughtfully read, you will discover that your heart to grow spiritually through retreats, classes, special activities and teachings. We celebrated special holidays will begin to respond in different ways depending on speakers and missions at Saint Rita’s Church in Dallas, and other events with this new spiritual family. how God moves you. You might begin to quietly adore or Texas. But I never dreamed there could be so much The Sunday prayer meetings continued to grow, always thank Him for all He has done for you. You may simply more! being under the authority of our local Bishop. In 1973, feel overwhelmed by His love and want to praise Him. In 1966, a friend took me to a few prayer meetings. we made a covenant with the Lord and one another, to Since you have not yet achieved sainthood (call it a Then I went with her to hear a couple of speakers at support each other in living our Christian lives together. guess), He might begin to show you some areas of your MATTHEW LEONARD (www.MatthewSLeonard.com) is an internationally known author and speaker. some Charismatic conferences. I saw something very God gave us the name, “The Christian Community of life which need to improve or certain virtues that might He serves as the Executive Director of the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology. His latest book special and deeper than anything I had ever known. After God’s Delight.” Through our prayer meetings, different be lacking, which leads you to sorrow. Louder Than Words: The Art of Living as a Catholic is published by Our Sunday Visitor. taking a few classes called “Life in the Spirit,” I received ministries, activities and services, we have grown in our

18 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 19 knowledge and love of God and one another. Tens of We pray that they will know, love, and serve the God who thousands of people have been through our classes. created them and that all of our lives will bring honor Father Paul Hinnebusch, a world-renowned theologian, and glory to Him. I have experienced many joys and author and Scripture scholar served the Bishop as liaison sorrows in my life, but the greatest blessing always has SIMPLE SPIRITUAL to the Charismatic Renewal in Dallas and provided been learning to know more about God and His ways spiritual direction to the Community. Our leader, Bobbie as I strive to know and live in His Divine Will. I will never Cavnar, co-founded the worldwide Catholic Fraternity of understand why He has given so much love and so many Charismatic Covenant Communities and Fellowships, blessings to me, but I thank Him and I praise Him. which now has an office in the Vatican. “Go home to your friends and tell them how much Life was so good. We had challenges within our the Lord has done for you and how He has had mercy on growing family, discipline and peer pressure, financial you” (Mark 5: 19) ECONOMICS struggles keeping the children in Catholic and private May our Dear Lord make me aware of every By Felix Carroll schools, etc., but I began to realize what a small opportunity to “Proclaim His marvelous deeds”, and may percentage of the population in the world have the my words always be guided by the Holy Spirit. I long for freedoms that we enjoy in our country, especially the the day when the world will see the answer to the Prayer his story is not about how wonderful I am. (The jury yet. When my brother finally landed a low-paying job freedom of religion and the opportunity to know, love, He taught us, “Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done on is still out on that one). Rather, this is a story about in a warehouse, on his very first day, a forklift operator and serve our God the way we do. How very blessed earth as it is in heaven.” May the Holy Name of Jesus be Thow wonderful God is. I recently gave away $400 that accidentally dropped the forks down and crushed we are! All are free gifts from God. We did nothing to praised, adored and loved forever! I did not really have. I am writing about this now because, my brother’s right foot. His doctors believe he will be deserve any of this and more and more I know how miraculously, I have incurred a net financial loss of exactly permanently disabled. He is unable to stay upright for unworthy I am. To find out more about the Christian Community ofG od’s Delight, visit $0.00, which proves a fact of simple spiritual economics: more than a few minutes at a time. He can no longer Jerry and I now have seven beautiful grandchildren. www.GodsDelight.org. When we show our love for God by caring for those in play catch with his two boys. Moreover, the trauma from need, God fills us with abundant graces, some way, the injury caused what is called Reflex Sympathetic somehow. “Give, and gifts will be given to you,” the Gospels Dystrophy, a chronic pain disorder involving the nervous tell us (Luke 6:38). I could tell you time and again how system. He has to take painkillers, which means that he true that has been in my life. The following is the most cannot apply for an office job anywhere because, as he recent example. My wife and I decided to financially says, “I’d be useless.” help one of my brothers and his family. They were—and Then, a few weeks ago, my brother’s wife was laid still are—in desperate financial straits. Like hundreds of off from her job. In the long term, they will probably be thousands of Americans, my brother lost his job— a high- OK, financially. She will find a job, I am sure. And he is a paying job. Then, he lost his house, then his car. prime candidate for social security disability. But in the He, his wife, and their two boys now live in a short-term, things are very bad for them. The day his wife ramshackle rental that should probably be condemned. lost her job, I said to my wife, “I’m going to send them Their world has been turned upside $200.” We did not really have $200 to down. But the bad news was not over give. But the words of the great Divine

NATIONAL CATHOLIC YOUTH CONFERENCE A Life-Changing, Fully Catholic Event for Youth and Adults Alike KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

NOVEMBER 21-23, 2013 INDIANAPOLIS

NCYC SPONSOR WWW.NFCYM.ORG

WWW.NCYC.INFO ANSEL JACKIE BOB WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NATIONALCATHOLICYOUTHCONFERNCE AUGUSTINE FRANCOIS PERRON

August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 21 knowledge and love of God and one another. Tens of We pray that they will know, love, and serve the God who thousands of people have been through our classes. created them and that all of our lives will bring honor Father Paul Hinnebusch, a world-renowned theologian, and glory to Him. I have experienced many joys and author and Scripture scholar served the Bishop as liaison sorrows in my life, but the greatest blessing always has SIMPLE SPIRITUAL to the Charismatic Renewal in Dallas and provided been learning to know more about God and His ways spiritual direction to the Community. Our leader, Bobbie as I strive to know and live in His Divine Will. I will never Cavnar, co-founded the worldwide Catholic Fraternity of understand why He has given so much love and so many Charismatic Covenant Communities and Fellowships, blessings to me, but I thank Him and I praise Him. which now has an office in the Vatican. “Go home to your friends and tell them how much Life was so good. We had challenges within our the Lord has done for you and how He has had mercy on growing family, discipline and peer pressure, financial you” (Mark 5: 19) ECONOMICS struggles keeping the children in Catholic and private May our Dear Lord make me aware of every By Felix Carroll schools, etc., but I began to realize what a small opportunity to “Proclaim His marvelous deeds”, and may percentage of the population in the world have the my words always be guided by the Holy Spirit. I long for freedoms that we enjoy in our country, especially the the day when the world will see the answer to the Prayer his story is not about how wonderful I am. (The jury yet. When my brother finally landed a low-paying job freedom of religion and the opportunity to know, love, He taught us, “Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done on is still out on that one). Rather, this is a story about in a warehouse, on his very first day, a forklift operator and serve our God the way we do. How very blessed earth as it is in heaven.” May the Holy Name of Jesus be Thow wonderful God is. I recently gave away $400 that accidentally dropped the forks down and crushed we are! All are free gifts from God. We did nothing to praised, adored and loved forever! I did not really have. I am writing about this now because, my brother’s right foot. His doctors believe he will be deserve any of this and more and more I know how miraculously, I have incurred a net financial loss of exactly permanently disabled. He is unable to stay upright for unworthy I am. To find out more about the Christian Community ofG od’s Delight, visit $0.00, which proves a fact of simple spiritual economics: more than a few minutes at a time. He can no longer Jerry and I now have seven beautiful grandchildren. www.GodsDelight.org. When we show our love for God by caring for those in play catch with his two boys. Moreover, the trauma from need, God fills us with abundant graces, some way, the injury caused what is called Reflex Sympathetic somehow. “Give, and gifts will be given to you,” the Gospels Dystrophy, a chronic pain disorder involving the nervous tell us (Luke 6:38). I could tell you time and again how system. He has to take painkillers, which means that he true that has been in my life. The following is the most cannot apply for an office job anywhere because, as he recent example. My wife and I decided to financially says, “I’d be useless.” help one of my brothers and his family. They were—and Then, a few weeks ago, my brother’s wife was laid still are—in desperate financial straits. Like hundreds of off from her job. In the long term, they will probably be thousands of Americans, my brother lost his job— a high- OK, financially. She will find a job, I am sure. And he is a paying job. Then, he lost his house, then his car. prime candidate for social security disability. But in the He, his wife, and their two boys now live in a short-term, things are very bad for them. The day his wife ramshackle rental that should probably be condemned. lost her job, I said to my wife, “I’m going to send them Their world has been turned upside $200.” We did not really have $200 to down. But the bad news was not over give. But the words of the great Divine

NATIONAL CATHOLIC YOUTH CONFERENCE A Life-Changing, Fully Catholic Event for Youth and Adults Alike KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

NOVEMBER 21-23, 2013 INDIANAPOLIS

NCYC SPONSOR WWW.NFCYM.ORG

WWW.NCYC.INFO ANSEL JACKIE BOB WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NATIONALCATHOLICYOUTHCONFERNCE AUGUSTINE FRANCOIS PERRON

August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 21 But the words of the great Divine Mercy evangelizer Father FAITH VERSUS George Kosicki, CSB, were ringing in my ears. Father Kosicki defines mercy as “the pain in our hearts for another POSITIVE THINKING person’s pain, and taking pains to do something about it.” By Mary Nicewarner

Mercy evangelizer Father George Kosicki, CSB, were would pay for it. We hired a contractor named David— the ringing in my ears. Father Kosicki defines mercy as “the husband of a woman my wife works with—who came with pain in our hearts for another person’s pain, and taking his crew and set up the scaffolding for us at my house pains to do something about it.” It has pained me to see so I could finish the job. Neither my wife nor I had ever how my brother, a formerly successful businessman who met David.After the stovepipe job was complete and went to work each morning looking sharp, proud to be a the scaffolding taken away, my wife and I were going VS breadwinner, has now been reduced to sitting all day at over our monthly expenses. We estimated the bill for the home with his foot up and struggling to find purpose in scaffolding (considering set-up time and travel expenses) his life. Sending him the $200 recently was my attempt would probably cost us at least (you guessed it!) $200. to take great pains to help him. But the pain part of the We then received an invoice in the mail from David. It equation did not work out that way. The following day I said: Amount owed...... $0.00 was offered a quick photography freelance assignment And David included a typewritten note to us that read: out of the blue, which, of course, I took. By the time I logged in my hours, I had earned exactly $200! I thought Dear Felix and Cara, ne of the things I have learned over the years years in this “spiritual state”, unfortunately) or we can to myself, “Hmm. Interesting.” So I sent my brother At times like these, when someone is able, they help is that the disposition of the heart is extremely trust that God is not “picking on us” (I thought this at one another $200. out friends. If we all did that, maybe the world would be important when it comes to our spiritual lives. A point!) but allowing certain events to happen knowing Now, just bear with me. I work for the Marians of the a better place. I could say to you, “I have done this for few years ago, the Holy Spirit, in a very pointed that He is going to use these events for our good. Immaculate Conception, who have been spreading the you, now go out and do the same thing in some way for Omanner, showed me how anything and everything (and This is not what I would call positive thinking but message of Divine Mercy since 1941. As such, I am another person,” but I have a feeling you are the type of everyone for that matter) can be used as stepping stone rather “trusting in the God of all truth and goodness.” The well aware of how on several occasions our Lord spoke people who already would. So go use this money that to Him. Even situations that seem to be quite awful in words “positive thinking” make me a bit wary in our days to Saint Faustina about the importance of performing you would have used to rent this scaffolding and buy our eyes need not be stumbling blocks and can actually because they can be used as blinders or a refusal to see deeds of mercy. He said: “I demand from you deeds of something for Henry for Christmas. be HUGE stepping stones to God. We know by faith that truth. They can even be used as a way to avoid correction mercy, which are to arise out of love for Me. You are to Glad to help, David. God brings good out of everything and I have seen this at or as a way to avoid responsibility. I am not so sure that show mercy to your neighbors always and everywhere. Henry is our son. I could not believe David’s kindness. work in my own life in remarkable ways. Illness, deaths, the term means the same thing as it used to. Jesus was You must not shrink from this or try to excuse or absolve I want to laminate his letter. My wife and I read it to each trials of every sort, attacks, and little daily irritations— a truthful thinker, not a positive thinker. He was often yourself from it” (Diary of St. Faustina, 742). As Father other—twice. every single one of these things can be springboards into very blunt in His manner of speech. When He cleansed Seraphim Michalenko, MIC, says, “Putting mercy into Again: $200. I can’t give it away! the arms of God. the temple He did not put a positive spin on it “Oh, action is not an option of the Divine Mercy message and Then, like a tidal wave, it hit me: God arranged this! It is very easy for us to see how the joys in life can everything is fine and dandy here in God’s house so I’ll devotion; it’s a requirement!”. So, mind you, I was not He arranged it because He pours an abundance of bring us closer to God but at times it is a bit harder just leave things be.” No, He saw the “truth” of what was being charitable. I was only doing what is required of me. graces upon us when we help those in greatest need. for us to see how the “not so good stuff” can do the going on and did something about it. That is how I look at it. OK, so at this point, I am down That is His promise to us. And He keeps His promises. same—at times in more powerful ways than the happier Look at the Crucifixion of Our Lord. God changed the $200, right? Now, just bear with me a little more. I am sending my brother more money today. And I am aspects of life can. The conversions of most of the people world for all time through His death and resurrection. In an effort to save money on heating costs this positive it will come back to me in other ways because I know came about through what people would consider All things were transformed through Jesus who suffered past winter, I installed a woodstove in our home. I had that is how God operates. Through a miracle of spiritual a bad experience (or a series of them). I am not saying so painfully for our sake. Jesus never said we would not done the math. We had free wood to burn, and the physics, when we give it away, it comes back to us like a that the wonderful things in life do not bring us closer suffer here on earth. In Matthew, Mark, and Luke the stove and piping would still cost less than half of what boomerang. Please take special care to help the many to God, I am simply stating that many people I know “conditions for discipleship” are taking up the cross and we would have spent on heating fuel. But my plan hit a families who are suffering these days because of our turned to God wholeheartedly after a series of painful following Jesus. After each of these Gospel passages, snag. I could not manage to get the last two sections of country’s economic collapse. I am convinced that, like events or circumstances. God transformed their pain into the next passage is about the Transfiguration of Christ stovepipe up on the roof. We had to have scaffolding set my new friend David says, if we all sought to lessen the something good. They “allowed” Him to. We always have a (Matthew 17:1–9, Mark 9:2-8, Luke 9:28–36). A up to finish the job, though we were not too sure how we pain of others “maybe the world would be a better place.” choice in our response. When it comes to suffering of any coincidence? No way. Picking up our cross and carrying sort, the disposition of the heart can be the difference it transforms us because God made it so. FELIX CARROLL is the author of the new release Loved, Lost, Found: 17 Divine Mercy Conversions (Marian Press, https://secure.marianweb.net/ between allowing bitterness to enter the heart or giftshop). © 2013 Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Article originally featured on www.TheDivineMercy.org. allowing the Lord to transform our pain and suffering into MARY NICEWARNER (www.openingthefloodgatesofmercy.blogspot.com) is Reprinted with permission. something beautiful. We can wallow in bitterness (I spent a committed Catholic, a wife, and the mother of one.

22 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 23 But the words of the great Divine Mercy evangelizer Father FAITH VERSUS George Kosicki, CSB, were ringing in my ears. Father Kosicki defines mercy as “the pain in our hearts for another POSITIVE THINKING person’s pain, and taking pains to do something about it.” By Mary Nicewarner

22 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 23 Sharing the peace of Christ

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. (John 14:27)

Too many men, women, and families are filled with anxiety and weighed down by troubles. The entire world longs for peace – but does not know where to find it. True peace can be found only in Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. Shalom World embraces the peace of Christ and shares that peace by broadcasting comprehensive Catholic programs that reach millions of viewers worldwide. Shalom World is not just a broadcast ministry; it is a community of prayer that intercedes for its viewers everyday. Viewers are invited to send prayer requests via phone, social media, or e-mail. Our intercessory prayer team will be lifting up their intentions in prayer 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Media Scan GOD’S The New Testament and The Did Jesus Have A Last Name? On Heaven and Earth: Pope Francis Eucharist in the Early Church By Matthew Pinto, Jason Evert on Faith, Family, and the Church in By Scott Hahn This long-awaited sequel to the best- the Twenty-First Century OWN Empowered by the Holy Spirit, Shalom Media is reaching Long before the New Testament was a selling Did Adam & Eve Have Belly By Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Abraham Skorka out to all people with the peace of Christ by launching the document, it was a sacrament. Jesus Buttons? uses the same easy-to-read, first 24/7 Catholic charismatic channel in English. called the Eucharist by the name question-and-answer format that has For years Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, CHANNEL We invite you to join us and become a co-worker in the Christians subsequently gave to the proven successful in capturing the hearts Archbishop of Argentina, and Rabbi vineyard of the Lord. The initiatives of Shalom ministries is latter books of the Holy Bible. It was the and minds of Catholic teens. With 200 Abraham Skorka were tenacious sustained through the generous contributions, sacrifices “New Covenant,” the “New Testament,” actual questions from teens, Did Jesus promoters of interreligious dialogues and prayers of people like you. in his blood. Christians later extended Have a Last Name? offers clear and on faith and reason. They both sought the phrase to cover the books produced concise answers to some of the most to build bridges among Catholicism, by the apostles and their companions; burning questions Judaism, and the world at large. On but they did so because these were about the Catholic Heaven and Earth, originally published the books that could be read at Mass. Faith. Teens will in Argentina in 2010, brings together a Anyone acquainted with the rich body of learn the answers series of these conversations where both writing that flows so inspiringly from the to questions such men talked about various theological hand and heart of Dr. Hahn knows that as: • How can we and worldly issues, including God, he brings profound personal insight to believe in a God fundamentalism, atheism, abortion, his demonstrated we can’t see? • homosexuality, euthanasia, same-sex theological Is the Catholic marriage, and globalization. From these expertise,” writes faith the only true personal and accessible talks comes Cardinal Donald religion? • Did a first-hand view Wuerl in the the miracles in of the man who foreword to the the Bible really would become book. Consuming happen? Though written for teens, pope to 1.2 billion the Word this book is perfect for people of all Catholics around continues in ages who want to learn more about the world in March that illustrious the Catholic Faith. Matthew Pinto and 2013. “Christ has no body now on earth, but yours... tradition. It brings Jason Evert have a gift for providing ISBN: 978-0-770- Yours are the hands with which he is to bless men now” us a powerful clear, theologically-precise explanations 43506-6 -st. theresa of avila guide as we take our place in the great without losing the masterful charm of and challenging work in sharing the Good contemporary language. News. ISBN: 978-1-616-36526-4 We are launching a channel of peace—Shalom World. To bring this to fruition, we need 5,000 partners donating $100 per month. ISBN: 978-0-307-59081-7 By becoming a founding partner, may you also become a channel of peace..

To help SHALOM WORLD in our mission to share the peace of Christ, Method of Donation Donate at: www.shalomworld.org/donate or complete this form and mail to: Bank Account withdrawal (Enclose a VOID Check) Shalom Media USA, 1907 Beatrice Ave, Edinburg, Texas - 78539 Check, payable to Shalom Media USA; Check Number:______Credit/Debit Card (Complete the card details below) Heart ››Music CD By Audrey Assad First Name: ______Last Name:______Address 1: ______Card Type: Visa Master Card American Express Discover Singer/songwriter Audrey Assad, a New York native, began her musical journey after relocating City: ______State:______Zip Code:______to Florida at the age of 18. It was there that the deeply spiritual Assad decided to focus all of Email : ______Name on card: ______her energies on her faith. A flurry of local shows and worship events followed, resulting in move Phone: ______Cell:______Card Number: ______- ______- ______- ______to Nashville and a five-song EP called Fireflies that drew the attention of CCM label Sparrow Expiration Date: ______/______(month/year) Security code:______Records. Assad continued to hone her craft, writing songs for other performers and touring with Become a Monthly Partner/Supporter Dove Award-winning artist Chris Tomlin. 1 disc. 12 tracks. $25 $50 $100 Other $:______Deduct the amount from my account on the: Authorization 1st or 15th of each month yToda I Authorize Shalom Media USA to process this payment. My Onetime Gift $25 $50 $100 Other $______Become a Sponsor by making a one-time donation of $5000 or more: $ ______Signature: ______Date: _____ / _____ / ______

26 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 Media Scan GOD’S The New Testament and The Did Jesus Have A Last Name? On Heaven and Earth: Pope Francis Eucharist in the Early Church By Matthew Pinto, Jason Evert on Faith, Family, and the Church in By Scott Hahn This long-awaited sequel to the best- the Twenty-First Century OWN Empowered by the Holy Spirit, Shalom Media is reaching Long before the New Testament was a selling Did Adam & Eve Have Belly By Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Abraham Skorka out to all people with the peace of Christ by launching the document, it was a sacrament. Jesus Buttons? uses the same easy-to-read, first 24/7 Catholic charismatic channel in English. called the Eucharist by the name question-and-answer format that has For years Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, CHANNEL We invite you to join us and become a co-worker in the Christians subsequently gave to the proven successful in capturing the hearts Archbishop of Argentina, and Rabbi vineyard of the Lord. The initiatives of Shalom ministries is latter books of the Holy Bible. It was the and minds of Catholic teens. With 200 Abraham Skorka were tenacious sustained through the generous contributions, sacrifices “New Covenant,” the “New Testament,” actual questions from teens, Did Jesus promoters of interreligious dialogues and prayers of people like you. in his blood. Christians later extended Have a Last Name? offers clear and on faith and reason. They both sought the phrase to cover the books produced concise answers to some of the most to build bridges among Catholicism, by the apostles and their companions; burning questions Judaism, and the world at large. On but they did so because these were about the Catholic Heaven and Earth, originally published the books that could be read at Mass. Faith. Teens will in Argentina in 2010, brings together a Anyone acquainted with the rich body of learn the answers series of these conversations where both writing that flows so inspiringly from the to questions such men talked about various theological hand and heart of Dr. Hahn knows that as: • How can we and worldly issues, including God, he brings profound personal insight to believe in a God fundamentalism, atheism, abortion, his demonstrated we can’t see? • homosexuality, euthanasia, same-sex theological Is the Catholic marriage, and globalization. From these expertise,” writes faith the only true personal and accessible talks comes Cardinal Donald religion? • Did a first-hand view Wuerl in the the miracles in of the man who foreword to the the Bible really would become book. Consuming happen? Though written for teens, pope to 1.2 billion the Word this book is perfect for people of all Catholics around continues in ages who want to learn more about the world in March that illustrious the Catholic Faith. Matthew Pinto and 2013. “Christ has no body now on earth, but yours... tradition. It brings Jason Evert have a gift for providing ISBN: 978-0-770- Yours are the hands with which he is to bless men now” us a powerful clear, theologically-precise explanations 43506-6 -st. theresa of avila guide as we take our place in the great without losing the masterful charm of and challenging work in sharing the Good contemporary language. News. ISBN: 978-1-616-36526-4 We are launching a channel of peace—Shalom World. To bring this to fruition, we need 5,000 partners donating $100 per month. ISBN: 978-0-307-59081-7 By becoming a founding partner, may you also become a channel of peace..

26 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 Swim Against Thank you The Tide for picking up this copy By Elsy Raphael of Shalom Tidings hen the Holy Spirit inspired his election to the journey with joy towards the future; ‘put on Christ’ and Papacy, Pope Francis’ presence and introduction your life will be full of His love; it will be a fruitful life. Shalom Tidings is prayerfully and thoughtfully put Would you consider sharing this gift with others? to the world on March 13th signaled a renewal Because we all want to have a fruitful life, one that is For a fast and easy way to order the magazine, either for yourself or for your parish, W together for you. We sincerely hope this magazine prayer group or community, please visit: www.ShalomWorld.org/tidings for followers. Our Holy Father’s simple and forthright life-giving for others.” Our lives, the Holy Father says, is will become a blessing to you and your family. Or, Please complete the form below and mail it to: words, and strong witness of the Catholic faith during “a training ground.” He says, “Jesus asks us to follow Him You are in our prayers. Shalom Media USA, 1907 Beatrice Ave, Edinburg, Texas 78539 the course of these months has been a beacon of hope. for life, he asks us to be his disciples. But, He recognizes The most visible Catholic representative on the planet that because of sin, we fall and falter. But in those humbles himself before others and reiterates the Word times, we should not fear Our Lord. Rather we should of God on every occasion. As the Year of Faith draws to go to the Lord, we should speak with Him, and allow Yes, I would like to order Shalom Tidings magazine Order a Copy: its close in November, we are all called to reflect on our Him to guide us and continually train us in the faith. We $35 for 12 issues lives and ask ourselves, “Have we too lived as Jesus’ are called daily, in every moment, to practice our faith. Mail to: $60 for 36 issues witnesses this past year? Through our actions, have we We must build up His Church—it is demanded of us! Full Name______showcased our discipleship? Did we strive for holiness? We are called to not let life pass us by. We must live it Address______Shalom Festival special offer till September 30, 2013 Did we seek forgiveness? Did we forgive others? Were fully, promote it fully, and defend it fully. We cannot be Apartment/Unit______City______$ 90 $ 60 only for 36 issues. State______Zip______we present to the Lord? Did we follow His ways?” As parttime Christians any longer! The Holy Father implores: E-mail______he looked amongst the hundreds of thousands of “I ask you, instead, to be revolutionaries, I ask you to For more information and to find out Sponsorship faces of young people in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in July, swim against the tide; yes, I am asking you to rebel Phone #______Cell______rates, please visit www.ShalomWorld.org, e-mail us at [email protected] or call (215) 366-3031. Pope Francis sent out an invitation. It was not only an against this culture that sees everything as temporary…I Payment Options (choose one): invitation to the young physically present with him for have confidence in you and I pray for you. Have the Enclosed is my check or money order World Youth Day. Rather, it was a strong call for the courage ‘to swim against the tide.” And we must realize ACH (enclosed is a void check) world—like his namesake, Saint Francis of Assisi, let us that we are not alone in our journey. God presents us Charge my: Visa Master Card Amex Discover too rebuild His Church! with many opportunities to gather, to join hands, and Full name on credit card______And it is with and through Christ in which we can to glorify His great name. The world is ablaze with love Card #______do this. Pope Francis tells us, “I say to every one of you for the Lord and His teachings. He has set our paths Expiration Date______CVV Code______today: ‘Put on Christ!’ in your life, and you will find a before us. Let us today come together, and through the Signature friend in whom you can always trust; ‘put on Christ’ and intercession of Our Lady, seek to heed God’s call to Saint you will see the wings of hope spreading and letting you Francis of Assisi: “Rebuild my Church.”

August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 29 Swim Against Thank you The Tide for picking up this copy By Elsy Raphael of Shalom Tidings hen the Holy Spirit inspired his election to the journey with joy towards the future; ‘put on Christ’ and Papacy, Pope Francis’ presence and introduction your life will be full of His love; it will be a fruitful life. Shalom Tidings is prayerfully and thoughtfully put Would you consider sharing this gift with others? to the world on March 13th signaled a renewal Because we all want to have a fruitful life, one that is For a fast and easy way to order the magazine, either for yourself or for your parish, W together for you. We sincerely hope this magazine prayer group or community, please visit: www.ShalomWorld.org/tidings for followers. Our Holy Father’s simple and forthright life-giving for others.” Our lives, the Holy Father says, is will become a blessing to you and your family. Or, Please complete the form below and mail it to: words, and strong witness of the Catholic faith during “a training ground.” He says, “Jesus asks us to follow Him You are in our prayers. Shalom Media USA, 1907 Beatrice Ave, Edinburg, Texas 78539 the course of these months has been a beacon of hope. for life, he asks us to be his disciples. But, He recognizes The most visible Catholic representative on the planet that because of sin, we fall and falter. But in those humbles himself before others and reiterates the Word times, we should not fear Our Lord. Rather we should of God on every occasion. As the Year of Faith draws to go to the Lord, we should speak with Him, and allow Yes, I would like to order Shalom Tidings magazine Order a Copy: its close in November, we are all called to reflect on our Him to guide us and continually train us in the faith. We $35 for 12 issues lives and ask ourselves, “Have we too lived as Jesus’ are called daily, in every moment, to practice our faith. Mail to: $60 for 36 issues witnesses this past year? Through our actions, have we We must build up His Church—it is demanded of us! Full Name______showcased our discipleship? Did we strive for holiness? We are called to not let life pass us by. We must live it Address______Shalom Festival special offer till September 30, 2013 Did we seek forgiveness? Did we forgive others? Were fully, promote it fully, and defend it fully. We cannot be Apartment/Unit______City______$ 90 $ 60 only for 36 issues. State______Zip______we present to the Lord? Did we follow His ways?” As parttime Christians any longer! The Holy Father implores: E-mail______he looked amongst the hundreds of thousands of “I ask you, instead, to be revolutionaries, I ask you to For more information and to find out Sponsorship faces of young people in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in July, swim against the tide; yes, I am asking you to rebel Phone #______Cell______rates, please visit www.ShalomWorld.org, e-mail us at [email protected] or call (215) 366-3031. Pope Francis sent out an invitation. It was not only an against this culture that sees everything as temporary…I Payment Options (choose one): invitation to the young physically present with him for have confidence in you and I pray for you. Have the Enclosed is my check or money order World Youth Day. Rather, it was a strong call for the courage ‘to swim against the tide.” And we must realize ACH (enclosed is a void check) world—like his namesake, Saint Francis of Assisi, let us that we are not alone in our journey. God presents us Charge my: Visa Master Card Amex Discover too rebuild His Church! with many opportunities to gather, to join hands, and Full name on credit card______And it is with and through Christ in which we can to glorify His great name. The world is ablaze with love Card #______do this. Pope Francis tells us, “I say to every one of you for the Lord and His teachings. He has set our paths Expiration Date______CVV Code______today: ‘Put on Christ!’ in your life, and you will find a before us. Let us today come together, and through the Signature friend in whom you can always trust; ‘put on Christ’ and intercession of Our Lady, seek to heed God’s call to Saint you will see the wings of hope spreading and letting you Francis of Assisi: “Rebuild my Church.”

August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 29 ou and me, baby, ain’t nothin’ but mammals/ an animal,” we know immediately what she means: he So let’s do it like they do on the Discovery did not respect her as a person; he treated her as an “YChannel”—so go the lyrics of a song by a band object to satisfy his own instincts. If we “ain’t nothin’ but called “The Bloodhound Gang.” The band’s name carries mammals,” where’s the problem? the same theme—we are animals with an urge to Take this behavior to its extreme. Suppose a man merge, so let us go for it whenever the urge presents forcibly indulges his “animal instincts” with a woman. itself. The idea is almost laughable, except for the fact What makes this a crime? Bloodhounds cannot be that large swaths of humanity accept charged and prosecuted for sexual misconduct. The it as modern common sense. very words “crime” and “misconduct” indicate a moral Songs like this, backed by order, a meaningless concept for animals. And this is the media and even mental precisely the point. So often behind the modern push health professionals have fostered to equate human beings with animals lies the subtle or the notion that sexual restraint is not-so-subtle agenda of moral relativism, the rejection of inherently bad for us—and many of us a moral order to which all are accountable. And so often have believed them. But does this make behind the agenda of moral relativism lies the desire to sense? We encourage self-restraint all the indulge libido without any restraint — that is, the desire time: don’t hit your sister, share your toys, to behave like animals when it comes to sex. don’t eat the whole cheesecake. These, and a A world that teaches “chickens are people too” is of Birds, great multitude of other restraints, are considered inevitably a sexually confused world. When we raise normal and healthy. But why do people cry animals to the level of human persons, we are not really “pathology” as soon as someone suggests dignifying animals, we are debasing ourselves. And restraint for the sexual appetite? one of the first human mysteries to be debased in the Bees and It is certainly true that a puritanical and animals-are-persons and persons-are-animals worldview, repressive approach to the sex drive is not healthy. as the above song points out, is sexuality. No one (I hope) wants to return to the days of Although biologically similar, the joining of man and deafening silence about sex when the sight of a woman in “one flesh” is worlds apart from the copulation woman’s ankle could cause scandal. But is of Fido and Fidette—at least it is meant to be! Fido unrestrained libido the answer? and Fidette are merely following an instinct intended Our society has come to champion sexual to continue their species. Man and woman are meant HumaN indulgence as a right. And we wonder why to love one another in the image of a life-giving God, molestation, rape, abortions, “fatherless” children, something impossible for a being ruled by instinct. adultery, divorce, pornography, and STDs are Because of the effects of original sin, we often rampant. Could it be because human beings, experience our sex drives acting upon us as if we were both men and women, are behaving like animals. But if we are ever to find happiness, we must, Beings animals? When push comes to shove, with the help of divine grace, raise our behavior above— By Christopher West do some people really believe “we far above—what the oxes and jackassess are doing on ain’t nothin’ but mammals?” If a the Discovery Channel. woman says of her date, “He was

CHRISTOPHER WEST (www.ChristopherWest.com) is a world-renowned educator, best-selling author, cultural commentator, and popular theologian who specializes in making the dense scholarship of the late Pope John Paul II’s Theology of the Body accessible to a wide audience. His latest book Fill These Hearts was published by The Doubleday Religious Publishing Group. Article originally appeared in The Colorado Catholic Herald. Reprinted with permission (for reprint info, please contact [email protected]).

30 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 31 ou and me, baby, ain’t nothin’ but mammals/ an animal,” we know immediately what she means: he So let’s do it like they do on the Discovery did not respect her as a person; he treated her as an “YChannel”—so go the lyrics of a song by a band object to satisfy his own instincts. If we “ain’t nothin’ but called “The Bloodhound Gang.” The band’s name carries mammals,” where’s the problem? the same theme—we are animals with an urge to Take this behavior to its extreme. Suppose a man merge, so let us go for it whenever the urge presents forcibly indulges his “animal instincts” with a woman. itself. The idea is almost laughable, except for the fact What makes this a crime? Bloodhounds cannot be that large swaths of humanity accept charged and prosecuted for sexual misconduct. The it as modern common sense. very words “crime” and “misconduct” indicate a moral Songs like this, backed by order, a meaningless concept for animals. And this is the media and even mental precisely the point. So often behind the modern push health professionals have fostered to equate human beings with animals lies the subtle or the notion that sexual restraint is not-so-subtle agenda of moral relativism, the rejection of inherently bad for us—and many of us a moral order to which all are accountable. And so often have believed them. But does this make behind the agenda of moral relativism lies the desire to sense? We encourage self-restraint all the indulge libido without any restraint — that is, the desire time: don’t hit your sister, share your toys, to behave like animals when it comes to sex. don’t eat the whole cheesecake. These, and a A world that teaches “chickens are people too” is of Birds, great multitude of other restraints, are considered inevitably a sexually confused world. When we raise normal and healthy. But why do people cry animals to the level of human persons, we are not really “pathology” as soon as someone suggests dignifying animals, we are debasing ourselves. And restraint for the sexual appetite? one of the first human mysteries to be debased in the Bees and It is certainly true that a puritanical and animals-are-persons and persons-are-animals worldview, repressive approach to the sex drive is not healthy. as the above song points out, is sexuality. No one (I hope) wants to return to the days of Although biologically similar, the joining of man and deafening silence about sex when the sight of a woman in “one flesh” is worlds apart from the copulation woman’s ankle could cause scandal. But is of Fido and Fidette—at least it is meant to be! Fido unrestrained libido the answer? and Fidette are merely following an instinct intended Our society has come to champion sexual to continue their species. Man and woman are meant HumaN indulgence as a right. And we wonder why to love one another in the image of a life-giving God, molestation, rape, abortions, “fatherless” children, something impossible for a being ruled by instinct. adultery, divorce, pornography, and STDs are Because of the effects of original sin, we often rampant. Could it be because human beings, experience our sex drives acting upon us as if we were both men and women, are behaving like animals. But if we are ever to find happiness, we must, Beings animals? When push comes to shove, with the help of divine grace, raise our behavior above— By Christopher West do some people really believe “we far above—what the oxes and jackassess are doing on ain’t nothin’ but mammals?” If a the Discovery Channel. woman says of her date, “He was

30 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 31 heaven. Saint Michael is revered as the leader of the angelic army who will evil spirits who had been released from hell and their conquer Satan and his armies of demons, and is considered the defender of efforts were focused on destroying the Church. Prayer To the Church. He is often shown wearing armor, in the act of slaying Satan. “And But in the midst of the horror, the Archangel Saint war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels fought against the dragon. Michael appeared and cast Satan and his legions The dragon and his angels fought back, but they were defeated, and there into the abyss of hell. Soon afterwards, Pope Leo XIII Saint Michael was no longer any place for them in heaven. The great dragon was thrown composed the Prayer to Saint Michael. In 1886, Pope down, that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver Leo XIII decreed that the Prayer be said at the end of low of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were Mass throughout the Universal Church, along with the The Archangel thrown down with him” (Revelations 12:7-9). Salve Regina (Hail, Holy Queen). This practice continued The Catholic tradition assigns to Saint Michael several offices: to continue until the early 1970’s. The following is the short version By Cyril John to wage battle against Satan and the other fallen angels; to save the souls of the Prayer to Saint Michael composed by Pope Leo of the faithful from the power of Satan, especially at the hour of death; to be XIII: Saint Michael, Archangel, defend us in battle. Be the special Patron to Our Lord for judgment. Saint Michael is the Patron Saint our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do thou, uring the Liturgical Year, the Catholic Church O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, cast celebrates the role played by the Holy Angels in the The Scriptures, the Catholic into hell Satan and all the other evil spirits who roam Devents of salvation and commemorates them on tradition and the teachings of the throughout the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen. specific days. OnS eptember 29, we commemorate the In 1994, during the International Year of the Family, Feast of the Archangels—Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. Church clearly emphasize the need Pope John Paul II again asked all Catholics to recite this And October 2 is the Feast of the Guardian Angels. I have prayer daily. He warned that the fate of humanity was in always sought the help and protection of my Guardian to pray to Archangel Michael in the great peril. Though he did not order that the prayer be Angel. But it was only a few years ago that I was inspired said after Mass, he urged Catholics to pray it together to recite the prayer to Archangel Michael. Since then I wake of growing influences of evil in order to overcome the forces of darkness and evil in have grown in my conviction that in the context of the forces, trials, and tribulations. the world. In his Angelus message give in Saint Peter’s growing influences of evil forces in the world and in the Square on April 24, 1994, the Holy Father spoke of “the lives of many, the prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel is Woman clothed with the sun,” who appeared in Saint an effective tool of the spiritual warfare which Saint Paul of grocers and the guardian of all mountainous places. He is also held to be John’s apocalyptic vision, with the dragon about to writes about (Ephesians 6:10-17). In one of his homilies, the special Guardian Angel of the Pope and of the Blessed Sacrament. Saint devour her newborn child (Revelations 12:1-4) The Holy Saint Gregory the Great spoke about the significance Michael has been invoked for protection on various occasions. For example, Father said that in our time “all the accumulated threats of angels and archangels: “It must be realized that the a great plague struck Rome in 590. Pope Saint Gregory the Great led a to life” are placed before the Woman, and we must word angel is the name of an office, and not of a nature. procession through the streets as an act of penance in atonement of sins. address her to overcome these snares. For these holy spirits of our homeland in heaven are At the tomb of Hadrian (now Castle San Angelo near Saint Peter’s Basilica), In Pope John Paul II’s message, he encouraged always spirits, but in no way can they always be called Saint Michael appeared and sheathed his sword, indicating the end of the the revival of the Prayer to Saint Michael, “May prayer ‘angels’ or ‘messengers’ since they are angels only when plague. The Pope later built a chapel at the top of the tomb and to this day a strengthen us for the spiritual battle of which we are told something is announced through them. Those who make large statue honoring Saint Michael rests there. in the Letter to the Ephesians: ‘Draw strength from the minor announcements are called angels, those who In the Rite of Exorcism, Saint Michael figures prominently, particularly in Lord and from His might power’ (Ephesians 6:10). It is make important ones are called archangels.” the case of diabolical infestation of places. In such cases, the priest prays: this same battle to which the Book of Revelation refers, The Church teaches us, “With their whole beings, Most glorious Prince of the Heavenly Army, Holy Michael the Archangel, recalling before our eyes the image of Saint Michael the angels are servants and messengers of God. defend us in battle against the princes and powers and rulers of darkness the Archangel (cf. Revelation 12:7). The Scriptures, Because they ‘always behold the face of my Father in this world, against the spiritual iniquities of those former angels. Come to the Catholic tradition and the teachings of the Church who is in heaven’ they are the ‘mighty ones who do his the help of man whom God made in His own image and whom he bought clearly emphasize the need to pray to Archangel Michael word, hearkening to the voice of his word’” (CCC 329). from the tyranny of Satan at a great price. The Church venerates you as her in the wake of growing influences of evil forces, trials, And “The whole life of the Church benefits from the custodian and patron. The Lord confided to your care all the souls of those and tribulations. In view of the rise of fundamentalism, mysterious and powerful help of angels” (CCC 334). In redeemed, so that you would lead them to happiness in Heaven. Pray to the terrorism, and the attacks on the Christian community, I the book of Revelation, winged beings who otherwise God of peace that He crush Satan under our feet; so that Satan no longer suggest that we consider reintroducing the Prayer to Saint look like men are described as surrounding the throne will be able to hold men captive and thus injure the Church. Offer our prayers Michael in our personal and family prayer, gatherings, of God. Thus, in early paintings, angels were shown with to the Most High God, so that His mercies may be given to us soon. Make and prayer communities. wings. In medieval paintings, angels were often shown captive that Animal, that Ancient Serpent, which is enemy and Evil Spirit, and Let us pray: Arise then, O invisible Prince, bring help wearing the liturgical vestments of deacons. The idea that reduce it to everlasting nothingness, so that it no longer seduces the nations.” against the attacks of the lost spirits to the people of angels wear white robes comes from the white albs worn It has been reported that one day after celebrating Mass, the aged Pope God, and give them victory! by deacons that appear in these paintings. Leo XIII was in conference with the Cardinals when suddenly he sank to the Saint Basil and other Greek fathers ranked Saint floor. Physicians hastened to his side and could find no trace of a pulse, Michael as the Prince of all the Angels. The name fearing that he was dead. However, after a short period of time, the Holy CYRIL JOHN serves as Vice-President of the International Catholic Michael in Hebrew means “who is like God?”—the battle Father regained consciousness and exclaimed with great emotion, “What a Charismatic Renewal Services (www.iccrs.org). Reprinted with cry of the good Angels when they drove Satan from horrible picture I was permitted to see!” He is said to have seen a vision of permission from Charisindia.

32 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 33 heaven. Saint Michael is revered as the leader of the angelic army who will evil spirits who had been released from hell and their conquer Satan and his armies of demons, and is considered the defender of efforts were focused on destroying the Church. Prayer To the Church. He is often shown wearing armor, in the act of slaying Satan. “And But in the midst of the horror, the Archangel Saint war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels fought against the dragon. Michael appeared and cast Satan and his legions The dragon and his angels fought back, but they were defeated, and there into the abyss of hell. Soon afterwards, Pope Leo XIII Saint Michael was no longer any place for them in heaven. The great dragon was thrown composed the Prayer to Saint Michael. In 1886, Pope down, that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver Leo XIII decreed that the Prayer be said at the end of low of the whole world—he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were Mass throughout the Universal Church, along with the The Archangel thrown down with him” (Revelations 12:7-9). Salve Regina (Hail, Holy Queen). This practice continued The Catholic tradition assigns to Saint Michael several offices: to continue until the early 1970’s. The following is the short version By Cyril John to wage battle against Satan and the other fallen angels; to save the souls of the Prayer to Saint Michael composed by Pope Leo of the faithful from the power of Satan, especially at the hour of death; to be XIII: Saint Michael, Archangel, defend us in battle. Be the special Patron to Our Lord for judgment. Saint Michael is the Patron Saint our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do thou, uring the Liturgical Year, the Catholic Church O Prince of the Heavenly Host, by the power of God, cast celebrates the role played by the Holy Angels in the The Scriptures, the Catholic into hell Satan and all the other evil spirits who roam Devents of salvation and commemorates them on tradition and the teachings of the throughout the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen. specific days. OnS eptember 29, we commemorate the In 1994, during the International Year of the Family, Feast of the Archangels—Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael. Church clearly emphasize the need Pope John Paul II again asked all Catholics to recite this And October 2 is the Feast of the Guardian Angels. I have prayer daily. He warned that the fate of humanity was in always sought the help and protection of my Guardian to pray to Archangel Michael in the great peril. Though he did not order that the prayer be Angel. But it was only a few years ago that I was inspired said after Mass, he urged Catholics to pray it together to recite the prayer to Archangel Michael. Since then I wake of growing influences of evil in order to overcome the forces of darkness and evil in have grown in my conviction that in the context of the forces, trials, and tribulations. the world. In his Angelus message give in Saint Peter’s growing influences of evil forces in the world and in the Square on April 24, 1994, the Holy Father spoke of “the lives of many, the prayer to Saint Michael the Archangel is Woman clothed with the sun,” who appeared in Saint an effective tool of the spiritual warfare which Saint Paul of grocers and the guardian of all mountainous places. He is also held to be John’s apocalyptic vision, with the dragon about to writes about (Ephesians 6:10-17). In one of his homilies, the special Guardian Angel of the Pope and of the Blessed Sacrament. Saint devour her newborn child (Revelations 12:1-4) The Holy Saint Gregory the Great spoke about the significance Michael has been invoked for protection on various occasions. For example, Father said that in our time “all the accumulated threats of angels and archangels: “It must be realized that the a great plague struck Rome in 590. Pope Saint Gregory the Great led a to life” are placed before the Woman, and we must word angel is the name of an office, and not of a nature. procession through the streets as an act of penance in atonement of sins. address her to overcome these snares. For these holy spirits of our homeland in heaven are At the tomb of Hadrian (now Castle San Angelo near Saint Peter’s Basilica), In Pope John Paul II’s message, he encouraged always spirits, but in no way can they always be called Saint Michael appeared and sheathed his sword, indicating the end of the the revival of the Prayer to Saint Michael, “May prayer ‘angels’ or ‘messengers’ since they are angels only when plague. The Pope later built a chapel at the top of the tomb and to this day a strengthen us for the spiritual battle of which we are told something is announced through them. Those who make large statue honoring Saint Michael rests there. in the Letter to the Ephesians: ‘Draw strength from the minor announcements are called angels, those who In the Rite of Exorcism, Saint Michael figures prominently, particularly in Lord and from His might power’ (Ephesians 6:10). It is make important ones are called archangels.” the case of diabolical infestation of places. In such cases, the priest prays: this same battle to which the Book of Revelation refers, The Church teaches us, “With their whole beings, Most glorious Prince of the Heavenly Army, Holy Michael the Archangel, recalling before our eyes the image of Saint Michael the angels are servants and messengers of God. defend us in battle against the princes and powers and rulers of darkness the Archangel (cf. Revelation 12:7). The Scriptures, Because they ‘always behold the face of my Father in this world, against the spiritual iniquities of those former angels. Come to the Catholic tradition and the teachings of the Church who is in heaven’ they are the ‘mighty ones who do his the help of man whom God made in His own image and whom he bought clearly emphasize the need to pray to Archangel Michael word, hearkening to the voice of his word’” (CCC 329). from the tyranny of Satan at a great price. The Church venerates you as her in the wake of growing influences of evil forces, trials, And “The whole life of the Church benefits from the custodian and patron. The Lord confided to your care all the souls of those and tribulations. In view of the rise of fundamentalism, mysterious and powerful help of angels” (CCC 334). In redeemed, so that you would lead them to happiness in Heaven. Pray to the terrorism, and the attacks on the Christian community, I the book of Revelation, winged beings who otherwise God of peace that He crush Satan under our feet; so that Satan no longer suggest that we consider reintroducing the Prayer to Saint look like men are described as surrounding the throne will be able to hold men captive and thus injure the Church. Offer our prayers Michael in our personal and family prayer, gatherings, of God. Thus, in early paintings, angels were shown with to the Most High God, so that His mercies may be given to us soon. Make and prayer communities. wings. In medieval paintings, angels were often shown captive that Animal, that Ancient Serpent, which is enemy and Evil Spirit, and Let us pray: Arise then, O invisible Prince, bring help wearing the liturgical vestments of deacons. The idea that reduce it to everlasting nothingness, so that it no longer seduces the nations.” against the attacks of the lost spirits to the people of angels wear white robes comes from the white albs worn It has been reported that one day after celebrating Mass, the aged Pope God, and give them victory! by deacons that appear in these paintings. Leo XIII was in conference with the Cardinals when suddenly he sank to the Saint Basil and other Greek fathers ranked Saint floor. Physicians hastened to his side and could find no trace of a pulse, Michael as the Prince of all the Angels. The name fearing that he was dead. However, after a short period of time, the Holy CYRIL JOHN serves as Vice-President of the International Catholic Michael in Hebrew means “who is like God?”—the battle Father regained consciousness and exclaimed with great emotion, “What a Charismatic Renewal Services (www.iccrs.org). Reprinted with cry of the good Angels when they drove Satan from horrible picture I was permitted to see!” He is said to have seen a vision of permission from Charisindia.

32 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 33 ichael’s heel was bouncing as if he was about to break into a sprint, but he did not know which way to run. “My friend texted me during your talk saying he had a new bowl he Mwanted to smoke with me as soon as I got home.” He went on, “We like to party. We get drunk and use girls. Our heroes are older rockers. I know I should change but DECISION I can’t leave these guys. They’re like brothers to me.” As I watched the epic wrestling match happening between the mind and heart in front of me, the story of the rich young man from Mark 10 came to mind. Jesus had invited a young man to leave everything and follow Him, MOMENT but the young man loved his wealth. For him it came By Christopher Stefanick down to Jesus or money, and he picked money. I asked Michael if he had heard the story before. He had. In fact, he said, he had been thinking about it all day. According to one study, “That’s God, you know?” 93 percent of teens “Yeah,” he said. I shared with Michael how Jesus looked at the rich do not even believe in young man with love (Mark 10:21). “He’s looking at you absolute truth. Thus, with that same love right now, inviting you to follow Him.” I continued the uncomfortable challenge. or ethical reality outside of themselves. their approach toward “That rich young man was attached to a lot of things. There is a growing notion that we can have both: He chose those things over Jesus. Scripture says, ‘he Jesus and my favourite sin. I saw it to an extreme degree faith does not require walked away, sad.’ You’re being asked to make the choice when I did youth ministry in the East Los Angeles area, them to conform to right now between your friends and Jesus. I know it’s not where gangsters sat in my confirmation class and where easy. But don’t walk away sad.” Michael broke down and plastic rosaries dangled from the rear-view mirrors of some spiritual or started to cry. He sat and continued to cry for the next almost every car that was involved in a drive-by shooting. ethical reality outside ten minutes. What an amazing experience to get a front A less extreme, but no less tangible example can be row seat as Jesus stands before a teenager’s heart with seen when we consider that there is almost no difference of themselves. love saying, “Follow me.” Right in front of me, a heart was in premarital sexual activity rates among Christian young grappling with the invitation of invitations, as countless adults who know what their faith teaches on the subject, others have since 33 A.D. Sixteen-hundred years ago, a and non-Christians. Like the idols of old (gods of fertility, young man faced a similar struggle. He saw the truth but agriculture, war, or wealth) which served our wants and he liked his sin…a lot. At one low but very honest point needs, the Jesus of a relativist generation is simply here in his journey, he prayed, “Lord, help me be pure, but to make us feel good. Most of the religiously engaged not yet.” Later he prayed, “Let it be now!” And eventually teens who were polled in the National Study of Youth and the famous prayer, “You have made us for yourself, O Religion cited “it makes me feel good” as the reason for Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” their devotion. Of course, faith can make us feel great. Though he was a renowned philosopher, his turning point But at times, as is the case with marriage, which also was not some new realization. It was a straightforward requires that we conform our lives to fit another, the challenge. He heard the voice of a child singing, “Take journey of faith can be a painful experience! Love often and read.” He opened the Bible to Romans 13:14, “Put is. I am so proud of Michael for engaging the battle on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the that happens when one recognizes that God transcends desires of the flesh.” God was telling him to stop his our little world and invites us into His—for hearing the endless philosophizing and make a choice for God over invitation of Love. He was all smiles when I saw him with his sins. This man, Augustine, made the right choice and his group the next day. I think he made the right decision. became one of the most influential saints in Church I am praying that he keeps it. history. Because of relativism, many young people do not ever engage in the internal struggle of Saint Augustine CHRISTOPHER STEFANICK Author and international speaker (www. or young people like Michael (saint-in-the-making). RealLifeCatholic.com) is Director of Youth Outreach for YDisciple According to one study, 93 percent of teens do not even (www.YDisciple.org). He and his wife reside in Colorado with their six believe in absolute truth. Thus, their approach toward children. Originally published in the Denver Catholic Register (www. faith does not require them to conform to some spiritual denvercatholicregister.org). Reprinted with permission.

34 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 35 ichael’s heel was bouncing as if he was about to break into a sprint, but he did not know which way to run. “My friend texted me during your talk saying he had a new bowl he Mwanted to smoke with me as soon as I got home.” He went on, “We like to party. We get drunk and use girls. Our heroes are older rockers. I know I should change but DECISION I can’t leave these guys. They’re like brothers to me.” As I watched the epic wrestling match happening between the mind and heart in front of me, the story of the rich young man from Mark 10 came to mind. Jesus had invited a young man to leave everything and follow Him, MOMENT but the young man loved his wealth. For him it came By Christopher Stefanick down to Jesus or money, and he picked money. I asked Michael if he had heard the story before. He had. In fact, he said, he had been thinking about it all day. According to one study, “That’s God, you know?” 93 percent of teens “Yeah,” he said. I shared with Michael how Jesus looked at the rich do not even believe in young man with love (Mark 10:21). “He’s looking at you absolute truth. Thus, with that same love right now, inviting you to follow Him.” I continued the uncomfortable challenge. or ethical reality outside of themselves. their approach toward “That rich young man was attached to a lot of things. There is a growing notion that we can have both: He chose those things over Jesus. Scripture says, ‘he Jesus and my favourite sin. I saw it to an extreme degree faith does not require walked away, sad.’ You’re being asked to make the choice when I did youth ministry in the East Los Angeles area, them to conform to right now between your friends and Jesus. I know it’s not where gangsters sat in my confirmation class and where easy. But don’t walk away sad.” Michael broke down and plastic rosaries dangled from the rear-view mirrors of some spiritual or started to cry. He sat and continued to cry for the next almost every car that was involved in a drive-by shooting. ethical reality outside ten minutes. What an amazing experience to get a front A less extreme, but no less tangible example can be row seat as Jesus stands before a teenager’s heart with seen when we consider that there is almost no difference of themselves. love saying, “Follow me.” Right in front of me, a heart was in premarital sexual activity rates among Christian young grappling with the invitation of invitations, as countless adults who know what their faith teaches on the subject, others have since 33 A.D. Sixteen-hundred years ago, a and non-Christians. Like the idols of old (gods of fertility, young man faced a similar struggle. He saw the truth but agriculture, war, or wealth) which served our wants and he liked his sin…a lot. At one low but very honest point needs, the Jesus of a relativist generation is simply here in his journey, he prayed, “Lord, help me be pure, but to make us feel good. Most of the religiously engaged not yet.” Later he prayed, “Let it be now!” And eventually teens who were polled in the National Study of Youth and the famous prayer, “You have made us for yourself, O Religion cited “it makes me feel good” as the reason for Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you.” their devotion. Of course, faith can make us feel great. Though he was a renowned philosopher, his turning point But at times, as is the case with marriage, which also was not some new realization. It was a straightforward requires that we conform our lives to fit another, the challenge. He heard the voice of a child singing, “Take journey of faith can be a painful experience! Love often and read.” He opened the Bible to Romans 13:14, “Put is. I am so proud of Michael for engaging the battle on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the that happens when one recognizes that God transcends desires of the flesh.” God was telling him to stop his our little world and invites us into His—for hearing the endless philosophizing and make a choice for God over invitation of Love. He was all smiles when I saw him with his sins. This man, Augustine, made the right choice and his group the next day. I think he made the right decision. became one of the most influential saints in Church I am praying that he keeps it. history. Because of relativism, many young people do not ever engage in the internal struggle of Saint Augustine CHRISTOPHER STEFANICK Author and international speaker (www. or young people like Michael (saint-in-the-making). RealLifeCatholic.com) is Director of Youth Outreach for YDisciple According to one study, 93 percent of teens do not even (www.YDisciple.org). He and his wife reside in Colorado with their six believe in absolute truth. Thus, their approach toward children. Originally published in the Denver Catholic Register (www. faith does not require them to conform to some spiritual denvercatholicregister.org). Reprinted with permission.

34 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 35 of renewing your life. It will give you new strength and, in addition to this, can be dangerous if not supported by a good faith life. you will meet people who are in the same spiritual state as you. Growing in Without a proper understanding of what is right and HOW TO BE CATHOLIC faith as a community is a great way to maintain an active spiritual life during wrong, it is very easy to fall into a mentality where our school. temptation to do something is labeled ‘independence.’ Always seek spiritual guidance before making any IN COLLEGE: Adopt a Saint. Your post-secondary education will be a time where you decision that may change your life and affect the lives experience a huge change, both in your environment and in yourself. If around you. you are in a big institution, every day may seem like you are in the middle Six Steps To Success By Jonathan Mani of a marketplace. There will be flyers for different events plastered on the Pray. This may seem obvious, but your college walls, different groups promoting their ideas. This type of environment has education is not just the place where you get your the ability to affect the way you think and act, especially if you are actively degree. It is a place where you cultivate your spiritual involved in the buzz. A good way to remain true to who you are is to adopt the learning as well. How much you learn in your classrooms traits of a saint or pray to a saint for intercession. Saint Thomas Aquinas is an should be synonymous with how much you learn in amazing saint and is the patron saint for students, so perhaps you could start regards to your faith. After all, this is probably the last by praying to him. Look within and discover what may be some flaws in your stretch of studying before you enter the “real world” personality. Then, try to match yourself with a saint (or saints) who may have and it would be unfortunate if all you do is develop the had a similar flaw which they overcame. In this way, you can still be part of academic aspect of your life. As Catholics, the Bible, the dynamic atmosphere and still improve on a spiritual level. rosary, Adoration, and Holy Mass are our foundations. In addition, try to continuously learn from The Catechism of Join a Catholic Club Beware of courses Go to retreats Know the fine line between independence and temptation. This one the Catholic Church. You would be surprised at how much is huge. You spend a lot of time at school. Some of us may even have a you learn and how well this book answers the burning temporary residence and only visit home every so often. As such, we have a questions of your faith. And be sure to pray daily! 2 lot of free time; free time in the sense that we make our own decisions such School is a place of growth, learning, hardships and as when to eat and study, what events to attend, and what classes to take. It happiness, but with a spiritual focus, we can grow to is almost as if you are in control of everything you do, but this much freedom become the people God intended for us to be. 1 3 JONATHAN MANI is a student at York University in Toronto, Canada, majoring in Biomedical Science. he The journey into university/college is a massive these may conduct daily Holy Mass which will change. It is a time of new beginnings, life changing help keep you in a state of spiritual grace.. Texperiences and a healthy dose of independence. Beware of the courses you take. A It can also be a time of crisis—a place where your fundamental part of university is learning very foundation can shake; academically, morally, and and this involves books, professors, spiritually. Our bridge into adulthood may begin there, team projects, reports, exams, etc. and it may be a narrow twisted path until we become As a Catholic, there is no knowledge Adopt a Saint understand independence pray the person we are meant to be. I can assure you that that is forbidden to us, whether it is our faith will be tested in ways that we never thought the sciences, humanities, math, or possible, and in the midst of this conflict, it is very easy any other course. Despite this, the way 5 to lose sight of God and everything we knew until that this information is presented may be point. I offer you a list of things I believe you should do contradictory to what we are taught in in university/college in order to resist against spiritual church. You may come across professors with adversity and grow in the Catholic faith. a long list of academic accomplishments who will misinterpret various teachings of the Church. Join a Catholic Club on campus. In your first week You may be exposed to ideas that may confuse you and on campus, you will probably realize a couple of things. conflict with what you believe to be true. It4 is always important to cross- One is that the place is huge, with way too many frantic reference these teachings with a reliable source such as a priest. Learning 6 people trying to find classes.S econd is that you will see and understanding new perspectives are fruitful to your intellectual growth, You may be exposed to ideas that may confuse you and conflict many clubs and organizations promoting themselves but be careful of the things you accept as new truths. with what you believe to be true…Learning and understanding and trying to recruit new members. Try to find a Catholic club on campus that is in synchrony with the teachings Go to retreats regularly. As the school year goes on, life becomes new perspectives are fruitful to your intellectual growth, of the Church. It is incredibly helpful to have a source of complicated. The pressures of schoolwork along with the various experiences but be careful of the things you accept as new truths. spiritual guidance whenever you need it. Also, clubs like you have will undoubtedly add strain to your life. Going to a retreat is a way

36 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 37 of renewing your life. It will give you new strength and, in addition to this, can be dangerous if not supported by a good faith life. you will meet people who are in the same spiritual state as you. Growing in Without a proper understanding of what is right and HOW TO BE CATHOLIC faith as a community is a great way to maintain an active spiritual life during wrong, it is very easy to fall into a mentality where our school. temptation to do something is labeled ‘independence.’ Always seek spiritual guidance before making any IN COLLEGE: Adopt a Saint. Your post-secondary education will be a time where you decision that may change your life and affect the lives experience a huge change, both in your environment and in yourself. If around you. you are in a big institution, every day may seem like you are in the middle Six Steps To Success By Jonathan Mani of a marketplace. There will be flyers for different events plastered on the Pray. This may seem obvious, but your college walls, different groups promoting their ideas. This type of environment has education is not just the place where you get your the ability to affect the way you think and act, especially if you are actively degree. It is a place where you cultivate your spiritual involved in the buzz. A good way to remain true to who you are is to adopt the learning as well. How much you learn in your classrooms traits of a saint or pray to a saint for intercession. Saint Thomas Aquinas is an should be synonymous with how much you learn in amazing saint and is the patron saint for students, so perhaps you could start regards to your faith. After all, this is probably the last by praying to him. Look within and discover what may be some flaws in your stretch of studying before you enter the “real world” personality. Then, try to match yourself with a saint (or saints) who may have and it would be unfortunate if all you do is develop the had a similar flaw which they overcame. In this way, you can still be part of academic aspect of your life. As Catholics, the Bible, the dynamic atmosphere and still improve on a spiritual level. rosary, Adoration, and Holy Mass are our foundations. In addition, try to continuously learn from The Catechism of Join a Catholic Club Beware of courses Go to retreats Know the fine line between independence and temptation. This one the Catholic Church. You would be surprised at how much is huge. You spend a lot of time at school. Some of us may even have a you learn and how well this book answers the burning temporary residence and only visit home every so often. As such, we have a questions of your faith. And be sure to pray daily! 2 lot of free time; free time in the sense that we make our own decisions such School is a place of growth, learning, hardships and as when to eat and study, what events to attend, and what classes to take. It happiness, but with a spiritual focus, we can grow to is almost as if you are in control of everything you do, but this much freedom become the people God intended for us to be. 1 3 JONATHAN MANI is a student at York University in Toronto, Canada, majoring in Biomedical Science. he The journey into university/college is a massive these may conduct daily Holy Mass which will change. It is a time of new beginnings, life changing help keep you in a state of spiritual grace.. Texperiences and a healthy dose of independence. Beware of the courses you take. A It can also be a time of crisis—a place where your fundamental part of university is learning very foundation can shake; academically, morally, and and this involves books, professors, spiritually. Our bridge into adulthood may begin there, team projects, reports, exams, etc. and it may be a narrow twisted path until we become As a Catholic, there is no knowledge Adopt a Saint understand independence pray the person we are meant to be. I can assure you that that is forbidden to us, whether it is our faith will be tested in ways that we never thought the sciences, humanities, math, or possible, and in the midst of this conflict, it is very easy any other course. Despite this, the way 5 to lose sight of God and everything we knew until that this information is presented may be point. I offer you a list of things I believe you should do contradictory to what we are taught in in university/college in order to resist against spiritual church. You may come across professors with adversity and grow in the Catholic faith. a long list of academic accomplishments who will misinterpret various teachings of the Church. Join a Catholic Club on campus. In your first week You may be exposed to ideas that may confuse you and on campus, you will probably realize a couple of things. conflict with what you believe to be true. It4 is always important to cross- One is that the place is huge, with way too many frantic reference these teachings with a reliable source such as a priest. Learning 6 people trying to find classes.S econd is that you will see and understanding new perspectives are fruitful to your intellectual growth, You may be exposed to ideas that may confuse you and conflict many clubs and organizations promoting themselves but be careful of the things you accept as new truths. with what you believe to be true…Learning and understanding and trying to recruit new members. Try to find a Catholic club on campus that is in synchrony with the teachings Go to retreats regularly. As the school year goes on, life becomes new perspectives are fruitful to your intellectual growth, of the Church. It is incredibly helpful to have a source of complicated. The pressures of schoolwork along with the various experiences but be careful of the things you accept as new truths. spiritual guidance whenever you need it. Also, clubs like you have will undoubtedly add strain to your life. Going to a retreat is a way

36 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 37 chose Peter as His spokesman on the day of Pentecost? resurrected Messiah. Paul’s approach was effective, and Discover Your Personal God wanted the people to know in no uncertain terms some of his listeners became believers. Is the intellectual that they had crucified the Messiah and that they approach one that fits you? Are you an inquisitive type needed to call on Him for His mercy and forgiveness. who enjoys working with ideas and evidence? This is an Peter’s personality was custom-designed to fit the bill. important style, especially in these day of increasing Empowered by the Holy Spirit, he stood and confronted secularization. So many people need to hear the Gospel the people with the facts. And 3,000 people trusted in not only declared, but also defined and defended. Evangelism Style Christ and were baptized that day. Do you realize that there are people in the world who would not have or will The Blind Man’s Testimonial Approach By Ruth D’Souza not come to know Christ until someone like Peter holds Although we know less about him than about Peter their feet to the fire? Some people are just waiting for or Paul, we can be sure of this: The blind man healed a confrontational Christian who will present the Truth of by Jesus (John 9) had seen something worth talking about! Blind since birth, he regularly begged from people passing by. His routine quickly changed when Jesus came along and gave him the gift of sight. Before he knew it, he found himself in front of a hostile audience being asked to explain what had happened. The blind man took neither of Peter’s or Paul’s approaches. Instead, he spoke from his experience and confidently declared, “One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” That is hard to argue with, is it not? Not everyone has a dramatic experience. Effective testimonies do not have to dramatic. Do not exclude yourself from this approach because you have an ordinary story—ordinary stories relate well to the ordinary people in your neighborhood and workplace.

Interpersonal Approach Tax collectors were just not known for becoming evangelists. Yet that is exactly what happened to ost of us were born into the Catholic Church, and we will discover six Biblical styles of evangelism. As I Jesus Christ and challenge them to do something about Matthew. After accepting Jesus’ call to become one of so have never experienced a conversion like Saint describe each one, think about whether it might be fitting it. Could that Christian be you? His followers, Matthew decided to do whatever he could MPaul. We may look at Pentecostals and those for you. to bring along as many of his friends as possible. In Born-Again and even admire their ability to evangelize, Paul’s Intellectual Approach Luke 5:29 we find Matthew putting on a big banquet for thinking perhaps that it is not for us. In our interactions Peter’s Confrontational Approach Though Paul certainly could confront when necessary, his tax-collecting buddies in an effort to expose them with others, we may feel shy speaking about our faith. Peter had a “ready-shoot-aim” personality. Whatever he the hallmark of his approach was a logical presentation to Jesus and the new life He offered. He relied on the We do not want to be ‘in your face’ and distribute tracts did, he did it without hesitation and in full force. When of the Gospel message. Read any of his letters—Romans relationships he had built with these men and sought or go house-to-house. Perhaps we may be concerned Jesus asked the disciples who they thought He was, Peter being the best example—and you will see that he was a to further shore up their friendships. He invited them about what others think of us if we do this. Sometimes, did not mince words: he declared outright that Jesus master at clearly explaining the central truths of the faith. into his home. He spent time with them and ate with even when we see people in trouble, we hesitate. We may was the Messiah (Matthew 16:15). Then a few verses This intellectual approach fit the highly educated them. He genuinely cared about them and wanted to speak vaguely of God and advise them to pray and as later, when he disagreed with Jesus’ stated mission, Peter Paul, with his penchant for debating any and all foes employ the trust and respect he had earned over the a salve to our conscience, we, at the most, would pray challenged it head on. Can you imagine trying to correct who might challenge his position. Can you think of a years to influence them to consider the claims of Christ. quietly for the person and ask God to send someone the Son of God? You might, if you have a confrontational better person to speak to the philosophers in Athens? The vantage point of friendship gives us the highest else to help them. Perhaps we can draw some lessons style! If Peter was convinced that he was right, there In Acts 17, Paul presented a powerful argument for the possibility of influence in the lives of others.T hose who from six people in the New Testament who spread God’s was almost no stopping him. He was direct, he was truth, starting with the Athenian idol to an unknown god have the interpersonal style of evangelism specialize message of Love and Truth effectively. In the process, bold, and he was to the point. Is it any wonder that God and moving all the way to the only true God and the in this area. They tend to be warm, other-centered

38 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 39 chose Peter as His spokesman on the day of Pentecost? resurrected Messiah. Paul’s approach was effective, and Discover Your Personal God wanted the people to know in no uncertain terms some of his listeners became believers. Is the intellectual that they had crucified the Messiah and that they approach one that fits you? Are you an inquisitive type needed to call on Him for His mercy and forgiveness. who enjoys working with ideas and evidence? This is an Peter’s personality was custom-designed to fit the bill. important style, especially in these day of increasing Empowered by the Holy Spirit, he stood and confronted secularization. So many people need to hear the Gospel the people with the facts. And 3,000 people trusted in not only declared, but also defined and defended. Evangelism Style Christ and were baptized that day. Do you realize that there are people in the world who would not have or will The Blind Man’s Testimonial Approach By Ruth D’Souza not come to know Christ until someone like Peter holds Although we know less about him than about Peter their feet to the fire? Some people are just waiting for or Paul, we can be sure of this: The blind man healed a confrontational Christian who will present the Truth of by Jesus (John 9) had seen something worth talking about! Blind since birth, he regularly begged from people passing by. His routine quickly changed when Jesus came along and gave him the gift of sight. Before he knew it, he found himself in front of a hostile audience being asked to explain what had happened. The blind man took neither of Peter’s or Paul’s approaches. Instead, he spoke from his experience and confidently declared, “One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” That is hard to argue with, is it not? Not everyone has a dramatic experience. Effective testimonies do not have to dramatic. Do not exclude yourself from this approach because you have an ordinary story—ordinary stories relate well to the ordinary people in your neighborhood and workplace.

38 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 39 So work within your style, do not try to imitate others. Experiment with different approaches. Let God lead you REAL MEN PRAY to express your faith naturally to those around you. THE ROSARY

By Mary Job

“Sleep is optional,” David Calvillo says when asked how he manages a full-time ministry while being a civil trial lawyer, a mediator, a Certified Public Accountant, a husband, and a father of seven. Calvillo’s dedication to the calls of God in different aspects of his life is evident daily. Calvillo is a Texan, born and bred in the city of Weslaco. He is the oldest of Joe and Alicia’s five children. His parents were always prayerful Catholics and instilled a love of the faith in their children. His mother had a great devotion to the Blessed Mother and the rosary and encouraged David to pray it. “But I was way too cool for that when I was young!” David says. In the summer of 2008, because of marital issues, Calvillo found himself at a low point in life, perhaps individuals who enjoy deep levels of communication and others. They notice needs others overlook and find joy in the lowest. He recognized that he needed a spiritual trust with those they are reaching out to. meeting those needs, even if they do not get anything for recharge. So, after years of making excuses, he finally it. Often more quiet types, these people enjoy expressing accepted an invitation to attend an ACTS (Adoration, The Samaritan Woman’s Invitational Approach compassion through tangible forms of assistance. Community, Theology and Service) Retreat and he says, It did not take long for the Samaritan woman to realize Though this style often takes longer to produce spiritual “ACTS changed my life. ACTS saved my life.” At the retreat that the man she was talking to was no ordinary results, it is one of the most important of all the he prayed the rosary for the very first time. Before then, teacher. His prophetic insights and authoritative evangelistic approaches. That is because service-style Calvillo could not even remember ever having prayed answers convinced her of His claim to be the Messiah. evangelists touch people nobody else can reach. the rosary in totality and definitely not with the devotion So what did she do? She immediately went to her done at the retreat. The ACTS Retreat was attended by meetings, Calvillo was exposed to men who prayed the town and brought her friends to the well to hear Jesus Being Yourself: Nobody perfectly fits into just one of about eighty men: forty organizers and forty retreatants. rosary unabashedly, loudly, and with great devotion. One for themselves. This simple invitation resulted in His these styles. Every one of us probably has a mix of During the retreat, they prayed the rosary as a group. of those men was Alex Gamboa, Jr., who would wrap the staying in their town for two days. Many of these men several of them. And you might come up with style In doing so, they prayed it for various aspects of life: rosary around his fist. Gamboa is a fairly scary-looking and women became His followers. There are people number seven or eight. You can be yourself. So work for their families, for their marriage, for their children, biker type. Here was this manly man embracing the who would make great strides in their spiritual journey within your style, do not try to imitate others. Experiment to be better, to rise out of sinfulness. David describes power of the rosary. After several occasions of seeing if someone would invite them to an outreach event or with different approaches. Let God lead you to express the praying of the rosary as, “An out-of-body, ecstatic Gamboa and others like him, an inspired thought came retreat. And a lot of non-Christians are open to this your faith naturally to those around you. Team up with experience. I felt the presence of God in prayer. I felt that into Calvillo’s mind, “This is a good thing. These are approach. Some people, like the woman at the well, have other Christians whose styles will complement yours. Take I was transcending time and geography. I felt as if I was men praying the rosary, real men…real men praying the a knack for getting people to go places with them. Might some risks in your relationships and let God work through praying the rosary with everyone who had ever prayed it.” rosary.” you be one of them? you. In the process, you will enjoy the thrilling adventure That retreat began for Calvillo a journey to learn more When he went home that night, he shared the of personal evangelism, and you will make an eternal about the Blessed Mother and the rosary. His journey led idea with his wife, Valerie. Together, they formed the Dorcas’s Service Approach difference in the lives of people you love. him to read, analyze, accept, and fully consecrate himself Real Men Pray The Rosary (RMPTR) apostolate on the Acts 9:36 tells us that Dorcas was “always doing good through the teachings of Saint Louis de Montfort in his Feast of the Annunciation in 2009. RMPTR’s mission and helping the poor.” She was well known for her RUTH D’SOUZA is Executive Director of Interlink Marketing Consultancy, book, Preparation for Total Consecration to Jesus Christ is to promote the rosary by applying the lessons of loving acts of service performed in the name of Christ. a leading Business and Management Consultancy firm in the through Mary. the rosary meditations to daily life. The ministry has Specifically, she made robes and articles of clothing for pharmaceutical, healthcare, and wellness industries. She is a renowned That initial retreat led Calvillo to serve as a team an active online presence through their website (www. widows and other unfortunate people in her town. People management consultant, inspirational speaker and editor. Reprinted member at subsequent ACTS retreats. Being a team realmenpraytherosary.org), Facebook (to date they have who take this approach are motivated to humbly serve from with permission Charisindia. member required thirteen weeks of preparation. In those 34,000+ likes), and Twitter. Amidst his full-time service

40 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 41 So work within your style, do not try to imitate others. Experiment with different approaches. Let God lead you REAL MEN PRAY to express your faith naturally to those around you. THE ROSARY

By Mary Job

40 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 41 What Is

By Carmen Marcoux All About? as a family man and at his law firm, Courtship Calvillo shares daily reflections with I felt the presence of God in prayer. the ministry’s followers. One of the things that makes I felt that I was transcending time RMPTR unique is their Total and geography. I felt as if I was Consecration classes offered for ourtship does not equal arranged marriages. For of style in some cultures. Chastity forms us to love our those who want to renew their praying the rosary with everyone some people, the image of arranged marriages is neighbor as Christ loved us—purely, selflessly. Pursuing baptismal vows and who strive their who had ever prayed it. Cwhat first comes to mind when they hear the word physical intimacy outside of marriage is done for self- best to be holy. In 2012, RMPTR courtship. This is a sure indication of how far our culture gratifying reasons. The opposite of love is not hate, it is identified leaders in several parishes in their home prayer and concludes with a 33-day Rosary Challenge has regressed in its understanding of relationships. selfishness. How can a relationship that is called “love” Diocese of Brownsville, prayed with them, and prepared so readers can experience for themselves how praying Unfortunately the twentieth century phenomenon of be dictated and dominated by selfish motives? It cannot. them according to Saint Louis de Montfort’s book. A several minutes each day for thirty-three days radically dating has so entrenched our thinking that we often We must examine our understanding of love, as Christ Mass of Consecration was held at the Basilica of Our changes their lives.” see dating as the norm. This could not be further from modeled it for us, and live it out accordingly. Chastity is Lady of San Juan de Valle in San Juan, Texas and the For those who use their talents for the glory of Christ the truth. Dating was a practice that only came into the way to put love into practice in our relationships both classes had over 2,500 participants who looked to re- and His Church, their “call” is sometimes the most play after the introduction of the automobile. Until then, before and after marriage. And courtship provides the energize their spiritual selves by dedicating themselves unexpected of things. No one, including Calvillo, could the cultural standard for young couples interested in framework for living out chastity. to Christ Jesus through His mother. That number was over have imagined that God would call a CPA/lawyer to be marriage was courtship. Courtship can take a variety of one thousand more than the 1,300 participants they had a messenger of the rosary. Yet his answer to the divine forms but there are essential elements that need to be Purity in 2010. The next classes will be held in the summer of inspiration and his and Valerie’s dedication to its mission considered in establishing guidelines for a young couple. We are mistaken when we think that purity is a line, and 2014. And since he is only planning to sleep perhaps is evident in the fruits of the Real Men Pray The Rosary as long as we do not cross it, we remain pure. If we feel when he is retired, Calvillo penned “Real Men Pray the ministry’s labors. The young guy who was too cool to Chastity that we are pure as long as we do not cross “the line” Rosary: A Practical Guide to a Powerful Prayer,” published know the Blessed Mother and pray the rosary now Upholding the virtue of chastity is a real challenge in then we could assume any physical intimacy leading by Ave Maria Press and released this year. With an proudly proclaims himself to be a “Mama’s boy.” today’s society. Young people are bombarded by images up to “that line” is fine…as long as we do not cross that introduction by Most Reverend Bishop Daniel E. Flores of impure and sinful relationships. The notion of chastity line. This is a completely false notion and it often leads of Brownsville, Texas, and a foreword by author Greg MARY JOB serves on the Editorial Council of Shalom Tidings. She would seem to some to be one that is outdated. But to the question that young people dating ask: “How far Tobin, Calvillo shares “why the Hail Mary is the perfect resides with her family in Edinburg, Texas. virtues do not lose their value, even if they do go out can we go?” The answer to that question comes from a

42 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 43 What Is

42 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 43 out if the other person is serious or just playing with Family-Centered your emotions. Therefore, you should not enter into As much as possible, a courtship should take place in a courtship until you are of an age and stage in life the heart of the home. The family plays a critical role when marriage is a realistic possibility for you. There in helping a young man or woman to identify things in is something very gratifying in being identified as a potential partner that are important to know before someone’s boyfriend or girlfriend. There is a sense of deciding to get married. Family will continue to play a identity there. Yet that is a false identity, founded on a critical role in your married relationship, and the support false sense of security and rooted in insecurity in your of family throughout the years is an indispensable gift for own worth as a person. Your value as a person comes a marriage. Get involved in family functions. Go to each from your dignity as a child of God! A distinction between other’s homes and do things with parents and siblings. dating and courtship is this: a person would never enter Make the effort, even if family lives far away, for your into a courtship with someone whom they would not potential future spouse and your family to get to know consider marrying. Yet a person will often enter a dating each other. It will often increase the respect that your relationship with someone to whom they are attracted to, parents have for you and that you have for your parents. while knowing in their gut that they would never want to Involvement with family is also an ideal way to spend marry that person. The reason this happens is because time together without the temptation to compromise your dating does not imply responsibility for the other person. decision to reserve physical intimacy! The problem arises when emotional commitment and Do a Variety of Activities Together Discovering each other’s strengths and weaknesses is The stakes are high in a courtship because a couple is easiest when doing many things together. The temptation for young couples to go off alone and spend countless exploring marriage from the very outset of their romantic hours “talking” can often lead to premature emotional relationship, but it is also makes them more honest. attachments. And all that time spent alone serves as a temptation to experiment with physical intimacy. The danger is that once you are on the path of impurity you might someday cross “that line.” Do not go there! There is correct understanding of purity. Purity is not a line—it is distance from home or perhaps strained relationships. no reason to be in isolation. Get out there and have fun. a direction. As long as you are on a path that is leading In that case, a couple should seek out at least one Get involved with like-minded friends and enjoy group you to “that line,” then you are on the path of impurity mentoring couple whom they trust. This older couple activities. When taking time to be alone, ensure that and need to get off that path, turn around and aim your should know well the Catholic Church’s teachings on that time is spent wisely. Play sports together. Go out for heart and actions toward purity. The end goal of purity marriage and be able to guide the courting couple in dinner. Whatever you do—stay visible. is none other than to see the face of God. “Blessed are Christian morality. (Some people choose to have a few Dangers for couples come when they feel invisible: the pure of heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). different mentoring couples, including their parents). often physical intimacy leads a couple who are dating if no one can see us, then no one will know that we are So “how far can we go?” Go “all the way” in the direction There are many exciting new emotions that come into to consider marriage and even pursue it, only later to not upholding an honorable relationship. That is where of purity! (Who does not want to see God at the end of play when a couple enters a courting relationship, but decide that it was the wrong decision. accountability comes in. Furthermore, you can fool many their life here on earth?) But do not step on the path there are also many challenges. A good mentoring couple In courtship, both the man and woman are aware of people, even yourselves. But you cannot fool God, who that leads toward impurity (because we all know what will guide the younger couple, helping to keep them on the importance of the decision they are making regarding sees all. “Be sure your sin will find you out!” (Numbers the alternative is to seeing God!) track while sharing with them the joys and struggles that marriage. They are responsible to be honest and open 32:23). Do not place yourself in a position that would In short, reserve your affection and guard physical they face. with each other. They choose to guard carefully emotional tempt you to compromise your moral standards. Regrets intimacy so that you are not igniting passions that and physical intimacy for the sake of the other, protecting over failures are harder to live with than the satisfaction are intended to be reserved for marriage. If you value Responsibility themselves from unnecessary heartache and pain if the of knowing that you did not fall into sin. marriage and chastity, then avoid things that would derail When a couple courts they are saying that they are relationship does in fact break off. If the relationship you from living out that value. Save yourself in all ways exploring marriage as a possibility for themselves. It continues to lead toward marriage they will also discover Get Involved in Ministry Together for marriage so that you can someday reap the manifold is an exclusive relationship, in that one chooses to the great joy of being faithful and self-sacrificing to one This is a wonderful way for a young couple to grow blessings of a truly holy and passionate marriage…the enter into courtship with only one person at a time. If a another. Their marriage will be blessed with untold joys together in their faith and to share those convictions that way it was designed to be, by God. couple discerns that marriage is not their calling, they because they will share in each other’s physical affection will help them grow together as a couple. Doing the work end the courtship relationship. (If they have respected in total self-giving and pure love. And the wait will only of the Lord together will have many blessings for a couple Accountability and honored each other’s purity, they often remain as make the expression of physical intimacy that much while courting and after they are married. It is human nature for us to strive harder to achieve a friends). If they discern a call to marriage, they continue more exciting and wonderful. goal when we know someone will be checking up on to grow in preparation for that wonderful vocation. our progress. If we have to answer to someone else, we The stakes are high in a courtship because a tend to be more focused. In a courtship relationship a couple is exploring marriage from the very outset of Carmen Marcoux and her husband, James, reside in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada with their eight children whom they home-school. They couple turns to their parents, when at all possible, to be their romantic relationship, but it is also makes them work fulltime promoting purity and the Catholic faith. Marcoux is author of Arms of Love and Surrender. Find out more about courtship, purity, and their mentors. Sometimes this is not achievable, due to more honest. There are no mind games—trying to figure chastity at www.courtshipnow.com or www.purewitness.com.

44 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 45 out if the other person is serious or just playing with Family-Centered your emotions. Therefore, you should not enter into As much as possible, a courtship should take place in a courtship until you are of an age and stage in life the heart of the home. The family plays a critical role when marriage is a realistic possibility for you. There in helping a young man or woman to identify things in is something very gratifying in being identified as a potential partner that are important to know before someone’s boyfriend or girlfriend. There is a sense of deciding to get married. Family will continue to play a identity there. Yet that is a false identity, founded on a critical role in your married relationship, and the support false sense of security and rooted in insecurity in your of family throughout the years is an indispensable gift for own worth as a person. Your value as a person comes a marriage. Get involved in family functions. Go to each from your dignity as a child of God! A distinction between other’s homes and do things with parents and siblings. dating and courtship is this: a person would never enter Make the effort, even if family lives far away, for your into a courtship with someone whom they would not potential future spouse and your family to get to know consider marrying. Yet a person will often enter a dating each other. It will often increase the respect that your relationship with someone to whom they are attracted to, parents have for you and that you have for your parents. while knowing in their gut that they would never want to Involvement with family is also an ideal way to spend marry that person. The reason this happens is because time together without the temptation to compromise your dating does not imply responsibility for the other person. decision to reserve physical intimacy! The problem arises when emotional commitment and Do a Variety of Activities Together Discovering each other’s strengths and weaknesses is The stakes are high in a courtship because a couple is easiest when doing many things together. The temptation for young couples to go off alone and spend countless exploring marriage from the very outset of their romantic hours “talking” can often lead to premature emotional relationship, but it is also makes them more honest. attachments. And all that time spent alone serves as a temptation to experiment with physical intimacy. The danger is that once you are on the path of impurity you might someday cross “that line.” Do not go there! There is correct understanding of purity. Purity is not a line—it is distance from home or perhaps strained relationships. no reason to be in isolation. Get out there and have fun. a direction. As long as you are on a path that is leading In that case, a couple should seek out at least one Get involved with like-minded friends and enjoy group you to “that line,” then you are on the path of impurity mentoring couple whom they trust. This older couple activities. When taking time to be alone, ensure that and need to get off that path, turn around and aim your should know well the Catholic Church’s teachings on that time is spent wisely. Play sports together. Go out for heart and actions toward purity. The end goal of purity marriage and be able to guide the courting couple in dinner. Whatever you do—stay visible. is none other than to see the face of God. “Blessed are Christian morality. (Some people choose to have a few Dangers for couples come when they feel invisible: the pure of heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). different mentoring couples, including their parents). often physical intimacy leads a couple who are dating if no one can see us, then no one will know that we are So “how far can we go?” Go “all the way” in the direction There are many exciting new emotions that come into to consider marriage and even pursue it, only later to not upholding an honorable relationship. That is where of purity! (Who does not want to see God at the end of play when a couple enters a courting relationship, but decide that it was the wrong decision. accountability comes in. Furthermore, you can fool many their life here on earth?) But do not step on the path there are also many challenges. A good mentoring couple In courtship, both the man and woman are aware of people, even yourselves. But you cannot fool God, who that leads toward impurity (because we all know what will guide the younger couple, helping to keep them on the importance of the decision they are making regarding sees all. “Be sure your sin will find you out!” (Numbers the alternative is to seeing God!) track while sharing with them the joys and struggles that marriage. They are responsible to be honest and open 32:23). Do not place yourself in a position that would In short, reserve your affection and guard physical they face. with each other. They choose to guard carefully emotional tempt you to compromise your moral standards. Regrets intimacy so that you are not igniting passions that and physical intimacy for the sake of the other, protecting over failures are harder to live with than the satisfaction are intended to be reserved for marriage. If you value Responsibility themselves from unnecessary heartache and pain if the of knowing that you did not fall into sin. marriage and chastity, then avoid things that would derail When a couple courts they are saying that they are relationship does in fact break off. If the relationship you from living out that value. Save yourself in all ways exploring marriage as a possibility for themselves. It continues to lead toward marriage they will also discover Get Involved in Ministry Together for marriage so that you can someday reap the manifold is an exclusive relationship, in that one chooses to the great joy of being faithful and self-sacrificing to one This is a wonderful way for a young couple to grow blessings of a truly holy and passionate marriage…the enter into courtship with only one person at a time. If a another. Their marriage will be blessed with untold joys together in their faith and to share those convictions that way it was designed to be, by God. couple discerns that marriage is not their calling, they because they will share in each other’s physical affection will help them grow together as a couple. Doing the work end the courtship relationship. (If they have respected in total self-giving and pure love. And the wait will only of the Lord together will have many blessings for a couple Accountability and honored each other’s purity, they often remain as make the expression of physical intimacy that much while courting and after they are married. It is human nature for us to strive harder to achieve a friends). If they discern a call to marriage, they continue more exciting and wonderful. goal when we know someone will be checking up on to grow in preparation for that wonderful vocation. our progress. If we have to answer to someone else, we The stakes are high in a courtship because a tend to be more focused. In a courtship relationship a couple is exploring marriage from the very outset of Carmen Marcoux and her husband, James, reside in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada with their eight children whom they home-school. They couple turns to their parents, when at all possible, to be their romantic relationship, but it is also makes them work fulltime promoting purity and the Catholic faith. Marcoux is author of Arms of Love and Surrender. Find out more about courtship, purity, and their mentors. Sometimes this is not achievable, due to more honest. There are no mind games—trying to figure chastity at www.courtshipnow.com or www.purewitness.com.

44 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 45 UPCOMING EVENTS 2013

Aug Sep September 30-1 27-29 Catholic Renewal Convention Orlando Catholic Charismatic Conference Take Courage, Have Faith Bonnet Creek, Florida Anaheim, California Featuring Father Graham Keep, Deacon Harold Burke Sivers, Hosted by the Southern California Renewal Communities Caroline Gambale Dirkes, and Valli Leone. (SCRC), this convention features a variety of speakers, including but not limited to: Father Gino Henriques, Father Lou Cerulli, Father Mike Sears, Father John Hampsch, Dr. Margaret October Schlientz, Deacon Alex Jones, John Michael Talbot, Dominic Berardino, Gretchen Harris, Donna Lee, Janet Lozano, and 11-12 many more. 25th Annual Camden Diocese Charismatic ○ For more information and to register, visit www.scrc.org Conference: Your Every Act Should Be Done With Love Wildwood, New Jersey September This two-day conference will feature Father John Gordon, Father Pio Mandato, Father Yvans Jazon, Father Ariel Hernandez, Sister 13-14 Theresa May, and Kathleen McCarthy. Ninth Eucharistic Congress ○ For more information, visit www.camdencharismatic.org The Bible, the Eucharist, and the Family of God Charlotte, North Carolina October Featuring Most Reverend Bishop Peter J. Jugis, Most Reverend Bishop Oscar Cantú, Father Thomas J. Loya, Father Michael Gaitley, Mother Dolores Hart, Dr. Christopher Kaczor. A Spanish 12 track is also available featuring Bishop Cantú, Jesús Heriberto 2013 Rediscover: Catholic Celebration Félix Guerra, and Father P. Julio Dominguez. Saint Paul, Minnesota ○ For more information, visit www.goeucharist.com Featuring Most Reverend Archbishop John C. Nienstedt, Most Reverend Bishop Daniel E. Flores, Father Robert Barron, Matthew Kelly, George Weigel, Martha Fernandez-Sardina, and September Jason Evert. Emceed by Jeff Cavins. 27-28 ○ For more information, visit http://rediscover.archspm.org The Acts of the Apostles and The New Evangelization Winnipeg, Canada This two-day event features author and speaker, Dr. Mary Healy. ○ For more information, visit www.catholicrenewalservices.com

46 Shalom tidings August/September 2013 Music led by ALL 4 HIM Worship Band Simple Praise & Worship Team HSYAY Team

August/September 2013 Shalom tidings 4