St. Thomas More Newsletter October 2015 more INFORMED

Grace for Discipleship The Restored Order of the Sacraments of Initiation

Steps Toward a Simple Life How to Scale Back

Making a Difference Time & Talent Fair 2015

Off to a Great Start STM

From Strangers to Family Youth Mission Trips

Welcome, Seminarians! Attention EMHCs Hope for a Faith-filled Get to know the two seminarians Remandation seminar required Community visiting STM this year to continue serving ’ mission in Tanzania info content

St. Thomas More Catholic Parish 8035 South Quebec Street Centennial, CO 80112 303.770.1155 www.stthomasmore.org editor: Carly McGillick contributing editors: Therese Beaudette Bob Cropp 16 22 Kitty Kolody Barb Monark Jerry Nix 3 A Beacon of His 19 St. Junípero Serra

By Mike Kunsman photographers: Presence Bob Bartlett By Msgr. Thomas Fryar Deb DesMarteau 20 Bella Natural Women’s Dave Rich 4 Along the Path to Care Ordination By Nancy Rapp director of communications: Irene Lindemer 5 Grace for Discipleship 20 Divine Mercy Supportive pastor: By Linda Enloe Care Msgr. Thomas Fryar By Mary Sue Kenny 7 Steps Toward a Simple parochial vicars: Rev. Israel Gonsalves, O.C.D. Life 21 Responding to a Need Rev. Greg Lesher By Sue Erschen Rev. Rohan Miranda, O.C.D. 21 Circles Denver 10 Our Need to Give : By Jan & Jim Zapapas Deacon George Brown 22 Hope for a Faith-filled Deacon Bob Cropp Deacon Tim Kenny 12 Who is God? Community Deacon Alan Rastrelli, M.D. By Maryanne Carter By Carly McGillick Deacon Gary Rogge Deacon Steve Stemper 13 Calling All Current 23 A Transformative EMHCs! Experience MORE By Carla Little INFORMED 13 Becoming the You God Created 24 Blessings for a New Published by the St. Thomas More Office School Year of Communications six times a year. Its mission is three-fold: to proclaim 14 Living the Liturgy the , to build up community by 25 Off to a Great Start! keeping them informed, and to call the community to worship and service. 16 Making a Difference Copyright 2015 - St. Thomas More Parish 26 A Huge Success! By Annie Deschane 18 Lives Committed to God deadline By Barbara Peterson 27 From Strangers to Family October 1 for the December 2015 issue and By Aline Cervantes December 1 for the February 2016 issue. 18 Honoring Marriage Articles submitted may be edited for clarity and space.

2 More Informed our pastor’s message

A Beacon of His Presence Honoring Dignity of Others

Respect for the Needs of Others doing so. It is a small gesture of charity but can make a profound difference in the life of one who is touched by Growing up, we had a phrase for missing the obvious. that generosity. And don’t forget the diapers that go to “If it was a snake, it would have bit me.” It was meant to places like Gabriel House, or the coat drive that helps indicate that something was there all along, right in front warm others with those coats we no longer need or use. of me, and I didn’t even notice. Jesus tells a parable about God bless you for your generous sharing. the rich man and Lazarus, and He mentions that although Lazarus is begging at the front door of the rich man’s Respect for the Deceased home, he doesn’t seem to notice or care about him. The story doesn’t end well for the rich man. On another note, as we head to the month of November and especially remember and pray for the faithful You are most likely aware that at the entrance to the departed, it is a good time to mention again the vestibule of the church there are large barrels on the sides importance of proper respect and treatment of our of the doors to accept donations for food and diapers. All deceased family and friends. In particular I want to donated food goes to help those less fortunate and are mention the importance of properly caring for the burial greatly appreciated by the various food banks and inner of the deceased. This might sound like a given, but you city parishes we take them to. I know when I was at the would be surprised to hear the horror stories that come to Cathedral we were so glad to receive regular donations a priest or minister’s attention all too often. from St. Thomas More for our food bank. These stories have to do with individuals who, for various The types of items that are especially needed are such motives and causes, do not properly bury the cremated things as cans of soup, tuna fish, stew, crackers, peanut remains of their loved one. They might keep the ashes at butter and other non-perishable items. I noticed boxes of their home. Sometimes you hear of a car being stolen with macaroni and cheese in the barrel the other day. This can cremains in the vehicle, and the owner wants their loved provide a meal for a home and yet also be stored for a one returned. Sometimes a family member has kept the while without worry of it becoming unusable due to time. cremains at home, and when they become incapacitated I personally want to thank the many of you who bring a or die suddenly, others are unaware of what to do with the sack of something every week or two. It is another form ashes of the previously deceased, and the consequences of our stewardship: sharing our blessings with others, can be truly sad. I heard recently of a junkyard that had a especially the needy. And I would encourage those who car that was brought in to be crushed, and when checking walk by the barrels but never bring anything to consider it out to the crushing, found ashes from a cremation.

Our faith and belief considers the body, even in death, ... Recommit ourselves to and even when cremated, as sacred. It deserves and the prayer, activity and is worthy of proper respect and appropriate burial at the time of death. It is never proper to just keep the attitude that make us not only remains of a person in the home or in one’s possession responsive to God’s call in our for whatever reason. If you know of anyone who has cremated remains, even if only partially, in their personal lives, but a beacon possession, encourage them to contact a cemetery and of His presence to properly inter them. There can even be a priest or deacon helping with the appropriate service at the cemetery for those around us. final commendation and blessing. Please don’t feel like you are being inappropriate in giving such advice. If you were “ October 2015 3 driving down a road and saw a body there, wouldn’t you high school or above and have not been Confirmed, please do something to properly report and care for that person? contact us here at the parish. This is a sacrament that is central to our spiritual life, and we can help you to prepare Respect for the Order of Sacraments for and receive it. Call the parish office at 303.770.1155 and we will be happy to work with you. Finally, you have heard over the past month the plans of the Archdiocese of Denver to restore the proper order The fall is fully upon us. It is often a time that calls us anew of the sacraments of initiation over the coming years so to recommit ourselves to the prayer, activity, and attitude that a person will be Baptized as an infant, then in third that make us not only responsive to God’s call in our lives, grade receive both their Confirmation and the Eucharist but a beacon of His presence to those around us. May at the same time, in that order. If these discussions have the Lord bless you and those you love throughout these made you conscious of the fact that you are yourself in coming weeks. May you know His comfort and peace. u

Along the Path to Ordination meet our visiting seminarians Shannon Thurman I am very grateful for being assigned deacon in February 2017. I am the fourth of five children: to STM. The parishioners have been two boys and three girls. I also have 13 nieces and very kind in accepting me. I can tell nephews and 12 grand-nieces and nephews. I was born by being here that my calling to the in Colorado Springs and raised in Lakewood. I had two priesthood is confirmed, and I will careers before entering seminary. I was in restaurant be a much better priest for being management for 14 years and then worked in the medical assigned here for an academic year. field as a medical assistant/front office personnel in There is so much for me to learn pediatrics for five years. My hobbies include cycling, from Monsignor Tom, Father Israel, golfing, reading and spending time outdoors. I also enjoy Father Greg and Father Rohan. time with my family. I look forward to meeting more parishioners and becoming part of the parish life. As a seminarian, I have found I am drawn to helping people in hospice, suffering from dementia and visiting I entered the seminary when I was 44 years old. God with people who are sick in the hospital, so that will surely willing, I will be ordained a priest in May 2018 and a be an important part of my future ministry as a priest. u Deacon Robert Keller Hello! St. John Vianney Seminary encouraged me in so many ways. During my senior year of and the Archdiocese of Denver have high school, I began to think about becoming a priest and sent me to be with you this year. then met with the vocation director. After I applied and I am in my fifth and last year of was accepted, I spent my four years of college seminary seminary at SJV. I will complete my in Fargo. I have also served as a FOCUS missionary in degree this year and be ordained Mankato, Minnesota for two years. for the Diocese of Fargo, North Dakota, where I was born and I enjoy spending time outdoors, running, racquetball, have lived for most my life with my cooking, baking bread, reading and being with loved ones. parents, and sister. I am happy to be with you and I look forward to our I grew up Catholic in a great home. One of the most journey of faith together as I continue my preparation for influential people for me was my former pastor, Fr. the priesthood. u Michael Hickin, who provided a wonderful example and

4 More Informed Grace for Discipleship the restored order of the sacraments of initiation

By Linda Enloe season. Since the ceremony includes Confirmation, the presider will now be the or his designee. At Pentecost this year, Archbishop Aquila formally announced that the Archdiocese of Denver will be moving What does this mean for our children? If a child has already toward restoring the order of the Sacraments of Initiation. received First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, he or she This is often referred to with the term “Restored Order.” will continue on our current path towards Confirmation. In his pastoral letter “ Among Us,” he outlines his We offer preparation for middle schoolers, high schoolers vision for the archdiocese. We are excited to be part of this and adults. Each has its own registration, preparation and spiritual endeavor and will utilize many communication schedule. tools to convey information about restoring the order of the Sacraments of Initiation. Over the next four issues of If a second, third or fourth grade child has NOT received More Informed, we will detail how St. Thomas More will First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, but is baptized implement these changes; we will review the history of the Catholic and attended a R.E. class of some kind last year, age at which we receive the Sacrament of Confirmation; they are welcome to register for this year’s Sacrament and we will explore what restoring the order means for our Preparation, which will be for Reconciliation and Eucharist. children, for our families and for our church. This preparation began in September, but parents can still register their child. We will host a make-up meeting The Sacraments of Initiation are , Eucharist and October 6 from 7:00–8:30pm in Room 120. Please RSVP to Confirmation. Most of us have experienced receiving these Linda Enloe at [email protected] or 303.770.0531 sacraments in this order. However, as the name implies, x7 if you plan on attending. restoring the order of the sacraments means returning them to the order we, as Roman Catholics, used to receive Current first grade children will be our inaugural group of them: Baptism, Confirmation and then Eucharist. Really! children who will prepare for the reception of sacraments We used to receive them Baptism, Confirmation and then in the Restored Order beginning in 2016–2017. Eucharist! Baptism begins our life in Christ, making us members of God’s family. Confirmation perfects the grace of Baptism, strengthening us with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The Eucharist then feeds us for our lifelong journey to be Disciples of Christ.

Currently, preparing for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist is a two year process: Year 1 is participation in a religious education (R.E.) class. This includes Faith & Family, Shepherd’s Promise, attendance at a Catholic school or the use of an approved religion curriculum in a homeschool program. Year 2 includes registering for Sacrament Preparation in addition to registering for and attendance at religious education. Our current 2015–2016 program year will be the last year that we will use this model at St. Thomas More.

Beginning in 2016–2017, Sacrament Preparation at our photo by Jacob Machado parish will change. Year 1 will include participation in a religious education class and preparation for both parents After this year, Restored Order Sacrament Preparation will and children to learn about the Sacraments and prepare be a two-year process and children will be concurrently for Reconciliation. The First Reconciliation ceremony will enrolled in a religious education class of some kind; they now be celebrated during . These same families will will no longer need to be in a class the year prior. However, return for Year 2, which will include religious education we do highly encourage all children to attend classes both as well as preparation for Confirmation and Eucharist. before and after receiving sacraments to formally cultivate Both of these sacraments will be received at a single Mass their faith, experience our Catholic heritage, meet other scheduled sometime during or shortly after the Easter Catholic children and families and become more part of the parish community.

October 2015 5 Remember, all of us are called to continue our faith Restored Order of Sacraments. This is an exciting time for formation throughout our lives, deepening our relationship our church and the archdiocese. Please pray for our parish, with Christ and His Church. This is especially true after we our families and most of all our children that through the have been confirmed. Children will still be expected to reception of these sacraments they may be drawn even continue learning the faith through attendance at any of closer to Christ. our faith formation opportunities. Living as fully initiated members of the , it is hoped that children Further information is available on several websites: will become more involved in the life and activities of the ŠŠ www.archden.org/saints includes a 30-minute video parish outside of a religious education class or attendance explaining the reason behind the decision to restore at Catholic school. These include such experiences as the order of the Sacraments of Initiation, the text of becoming altar servers or singing in the children’s choir, Archbishop Aquila’s pastoral letter “Saints Among Us” just to name a couple. Over time, as a parish, we will and a Q & A section. continue to explore and develop more ways for our ŠŠ www.stthomasmore.org/faith-life/our-sacramental- younger confirmed members of our Church to live their life/eucharist contains information about this year’s faith in the community. process for preparing for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist. As we begin these changes at our parish, we will continue to communicate through our various publications. The Watch future issues of the More Informed for further 2016–2017 preparation year will be our first with the details and more in-depth information. u

in which children are allowed to receive Eucharist before FAQs Confirmation. I need to register my children for religious education classes this year. How do I do that? When I prepared for Confirmation, there were There are two ways to register: online at www. lots of components to complete. How will this stthomasmore.org/registrations or good ol’ fashioned work with children so young? paper forms available in the church Information Cove or Children will still choose a sponsor to walk the journey outside the Office of Catechesis. and a name to ask for guidance through their lives. Emphasis will now be placed more on the reception of My child has special needs. Do you offer the grace of the sacrament. One result is that children something for her? will not be attending a retreat that would look like what Yes, we work with parents to discover the best situation occurs at the middle school, high school or adult levels. and environment for their children. Some prefer to Our current model with Parent/Child Workshops will be have their children in Faith & Family or in Shepherd’s the retreat component. Promise. Others take advantage of our Special Needs What about service hours? Religious Education class on Tuesdays from 6:00–7:00pm in the large cafeteria. Sacrament Preparation can occur Service hours will not be required; however, we will be through the parish-wide process or through the Special incorporating a service project into one of the Parent/ Needs R.E. classes. Each child is a unique gift from God Child Workshops, similar to what we currently do with and we want what is best for them and their families. Eucharist preparation. It is important for us to model the idea of service since serving is to be a lifelong endeavor If the children will be preparing for three as a of Christ. sacraments, does that mean there are three ceremonies? What happens after children are confirmed? No. Reconciliation will continue to have its celebration, Since Confirmation is NOT a graduation from the faith, and this will be during Lent of the first year of Sacrament it is expected that children will continue to attend Mass, Preparation. The sacraments of Confirmation and receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist, Eucharist will be celebrated at the same Mass at the end learn more of their faith and become active members of the second year of preparation with the archbishop or of the Catholic community. Obviously we want all his designee as the presider. children to continue in their religious education, but active participation is also a component of our faith. If parents feel their child is not ready for This can include many different forms of education and Confirmation, can they wait? involvement. Absolutely! As Saint John Paul II said, parents are As implementation of the Restored Order of the the primary educators of their children and as such we Sacraments of Initiation continues, we will continue honor parents’ wishes. However, please note that in to broaden the possibilities for the younger confirmed delaying Confirmation, Eucharist is also delayed. Per in our community to learn, serve and develop their Archbishop Aquila, there will not be an alternate path relationship with Christ. u

6 More Informed Steps Toward a Simple Life sometimes less is more: how to scale back

By Sue Erschen

Pope Francis has charmed us. We are impressed by his warm style and simple caring. Yet we may be failing to see the serious challenge of his message. From the moment he walked upon the world stage in his plain black shoes – shunning the traditional red papal shoes – began telling us we must set aside luxury so we can serve the poor more fully. He has said repeatedly that his vision is a Church “of the poor and for the poor.”

No one is excused from his plea for simplicity. He has encouraged bishops to give up affluent lifestyles and has told schoolchildren, “All of us today must think about how we can become a little poorer.” He wants us to take less for ourselves so we can share more with the poor.

In speaking of his concern for the poor, our Holy Father has quoted St. John Chrysostom, archbishop of Constantinople and one of the early Fathers of the Church: “Not to share one’s goods with the poor is to rob them and to deprive them of life. It is not our goods that we possess, but theirs.”

We may not feel we are robbing the poor, especially if they live a continent away. Yet we cannot deny that a photo: bigstock 56541878 multibillion-dollar advertising industry has taught us to envy and covet the goods other people have. We want all those who truly suffer from physical hunger, lack of work we see advertised, all our friends have and all that grabs and destitute living conditions. Are we willing to do that? our attention in shopping malls. Can we sacrifice some of what we take for granted in our own lifestyles to improve the lifestyles of others? In a We may think we need so much because we compare world that encourages us to take all we can for ourselves, ourselves to those who have more than we do. However, sacrifice is often seen as a distasteful and negative word. we would quickly realize we have more than enough Yet, if we want to help the poor, we must embrace some if we would compare­ ourselves, instead, to those who personal sacrifice. have less than we do. Pope Francis is a powerful voice, gently encouraging us to stop looking with envy at our Sadly, we may be like the rich young man in the Gospel of rich neighbor and to start looking with compassion at our Matthew (19:16–26). Jesus told this man, “If you wish to neighbor who is poor. be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to [the] poor.” Scripture tells us the young man “went away sad, for he Accepting Our Responsibility had many possessions.”

If we would be willing to voluntarily become a little poorer We, too, have many possessions. Will we eventually walk ourselves, we could help provide basic necessities for away sad from the message Pope Francis is teaching?

Because we are all one in Christ, more stuff will never soothe our hearts while our brothers and sisters throughout the world continue to suffer... When one of us suffers, we all suffer. “ October 2015 7 Will we become bored with his simplicity and stop paying Lazarus (Lk 16:19–31). It is interesting to note in both these attention? stories that Jesus talks of people who are condemned not for what they had done wrong, but for what caring and A key word to remember in the story of the rich young compassion they had failed to show. man is the word “perfect.” Jesus told the young man, “If you wish to be perfect ...” None of us can be perfect. Only We may pat ourselves on the back for doing nothing bad, God is perfect. But most of us can probably do better at but if we have done nothing good, we might need to loving and caring for the poor. reconsider how well we are living out the . There is a valid reason why the penitential rite, which we often pray Being Poor in Spirit at Mass, asks God to forgive all that we have done and all that we have failed to do. The strongest motivation for becoming poorer can be found in Our Lord’s teaching of the eight Beatitudes in the Through his lived witness and his words, Pope Francis (Mt 5:3–12). The first beatitude inspires us to consider what we are failing to do. He is Jesus declares is, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs calling us to a new kind of action. He is telling us to let go is the kingdom of heaven.” of excessive consumption. He reminds us we can never find true happiness and peace in any material object. Pope Francis used this first beatitude as the theme for his Anything we possess simply lures us to want more. 2014 message for World Youth Day. He stressed that there are three ways we can be poor in spirit. Because we are all one in Christ, more stuff will never soothe our hearts while our brothers and sisters “Let us learn to be detached from possessiveness and from throughout the world continue to suffer hunger, neglect the idolatry of money and lavish spending. Let us put Jesus and inhumane poverty. When one of us suffers, we all first. suffer. Abundant possessions cannot shield us from this inner sadness of the soul. “We have to learn to be on the side of the poor. ... Let us go out to meet them, look into their eyes and listen to We need to think less about our own personal comforts them. and more about the pain of those who are suffering. We need to stop being wasteful. We need to look into the “We have to learn from the wisdom of the poor. ... They face of the poor and see Christ there. Those in need are show us that people’s value is not measured by their not a burden. They are gifts given by God so we have possessions or how much money they have in the bank. opportunities to share and to serve. ... The most beautiful and spontaneous expressions of joy which I have seen during my life were by poor people who had little to hold on to.”

Regardless of our own financial situation, we all can be poor in spirit. Being poor in spirit means realizing that God owns everything. We personally own no more than the beggar on the street. No matter what financial and material riches we may have accumulated in this life, if we are poor in spirit we claim no credit for what we have acquired. We see everything as a gift from God, entrusted to us for both our benefit and the benefit of the world.

We know we are not entitled to an overabundance while others live with crippling scarcity. We hear the call to share our gifts with those who do not have what they need. We are willing to give up some luxuries so we can share more with the poor of the world. We live in solidarity with them.

What We Have Failed to Do

Many of Our Lord’s parables stress the importance of living in solidarity with the poor. Two in particular, which are worth reading carefully, are the judgment of the nations (Mt 25:31–46) and the rich man and Sermon on the Mount by Carl Bloch (1834–1890)

8 More Informed Pope Francis tells us our money must serve us, not rule us. We must find joy in using our money to become better people, not more stylish people. The Holy Father says, “The culture of comfort, which makes us think only of ourselves, makes us insensitive to the cries of other people, makes us live in soap bubbles which, however lovely, are insubstantial; they offer a fleeting and empty illusion, which results in indifference to others.”

Are we willing to pop the lovely bubble in which we live? Has this amazingly simple and humble pope inspired us to change our lives? We may hope Pope Francis will change the world. However, the world will only change if each of us is willing to change in some way. Having chosen the name of St. Francis of Assisi, our Holy Father will not let us forget our obligation to the poor. photo: bigstock 22605173 Sue Erschen writes from St. Louis, Missouri. She specializes Are we willing to meet that obligation? Are we willing to be in Catholic stewardship, spirituality, discipleship and transformed by our pope’s call to simplicity? Can we give gratitude. Her work has appeared in several Catholic up the fleeting satisfaction that comes from possessions publications including Our Sunday Visitor, The Priest, for the lasting joy of generous compassion? Can we America and Today’s Catholic Teacher. become poorer? It is, after all, the only response worthy of Reprinted with permission. us. u

Five Tips for “Becoming Poorer” year and gives away $500, divide $500 by $50,000. Only one percent of the income was given away! 1. Avoid being tempted by unsolicited advertising. When we do the math, most of us are shocked by Throw away consumeristic mail-order catalogs and what a small percent we give away each year. newspaper ad fliers, without even looking at them. Their sole purpose is to make us think we need things 3. Keep in mind that sacred Scripture teaches us to give we do not. away at least 10 percent. If we are not yet giving a tithe, we should begin to add increased giving into 2. Cancel subscriptions to magazines that breed envy our budget. and discontent by constantly encouraging us to update our wardrobe, remodel our house, try the 4. Plan our giving. It is helpful to pick five to latest electronics or purchase new sports gear. 10 organizations that truly touch our hearts. Concentrate on giving to these organizations. Learn 3. Delete or unsubscribe from emails that offer limited- about their work. If possible, become personally – time bargains for things we were not planning to buy. as well as financially – active and invested in their mission. We should be as abundantly generous 4. When tempted to buy more, stop and think, “How as possible with both our time and our treasure blessed I am that I do not need any of this!” to the special causes that match our Christian responsibilities and passions. Organizations to 5. Seek out some of the many inspiring books and consider adopting might include your parish, your articles on voluntary simplicity. diocese, an organization that feeds the poor, an organization that provides Catholic education or an organization that cares for the sick. When we do Five Tips for “Giving More” make financial gifts, strive to have every dollar go directly to the work of the organization. 1. Spending less and adopting a simpler lifestyle does not automatically translate into giving more to the 5. Try making a direct sacrifice by giving up some poor. We need to make a committed effort to expand specific luxury and donating the cost of that luxury our giving or we will simply end up building a bigger to a special cause. If we are not able to support our bank account. chosen organizations as much as we would like now, consider making a bequest or planned gift. Consult 2. We can calculate what percentage of total income we with an attorney about the options of leaving either give away by dividing annual charitable donations by designated amounts or percentage gifts to chosen total annual income. Thus, if one makes $50,000 a charities. u

October 2015 9 Our Need to Give a partnership with God

By Jan & Jim Zapapas by ourselves. At the end of that journey, our greatest hope would be to someday hear our Lord speak the words “Well As part of our series on stewardship, STM parishioners Jan done, good and faithful servant.” and Jim Zapapas view stewardship as a partnership with God. Together with their four children, they try to take Our first experience in stewardship actually was in the seriously the fact that we receive God’s gifts with gratitude stewardship of treasure. It started back when I (Jan) was and that we carefully and responsibly manage them. a senior in college (a long time ago). I had just returned to Recently they shared their story about their encounter with campus at Purdue University. My bank account was flush God through the stewardship of treasure. with my earnings from my summer job, but those earnings needed to last me the entire school year. The homily one First of all, it might be helpful to share with you what of those first fall weekends was on stewardship. I decided the word “stewardship” means to us. Plain and simple, to take the plunge, so before the offertory basket came stewardship is living out Christ’s instruction to “love one around, I quietly calculated my summer’s earnings and another as I have loved you.” It’s the actions behind the wrote a check out for a 10 percent tithe. I felt good about words “I believe.” It’s the realization that we truly are it and then quickly forgot about it until a few weeks later. Christ’s hands and feet. I was informed by the head of the engineering school that I had just been awarded a scholarship that I had Stewardship is a way of life, a way of thanking God for never applied for — a scholarship that would more than all of His blessings by being His caretaker, by being 100 cover the cost of my tuition and books that entire senior percent accountable for these gifts He has given us. Taken year. Now you never give with the intention of receiving, to its fullest, being a Christian steward is a tall order, but to this day, I think it was God’s way to make a lasting one that’s impossible for us to fill. Trust us. We would impression on a young person’s heart that God really can’t be the last ones talking about stewardship if it were a be outdone in His generosity. I was overwhelmed at the final destination, since we would have a long way to go. thought of this awesome God. Stewardship is a journey, a journey that’s a partnership with God, since we acknowledge there is nothing we do When we got married, we decided to make that same financial commitment to stewardship as a family. That’s the journey we’ve taken ever since. Over the years, we’ve realized that God was asking us to step beyond our stewardship of treasure and to begin giving back more in the areas of prayer, time and talent. With four kids and both of us working, our time became the precious resource.

In retrospect, a key step for us was joining a small Christian community several years ago, similar to RENEW, which fosters spiritual renewal in the Catholic tradition by empowering individuals and communities to encounter God in everyday life, deepen and share faith, and connect faith with action. By meeting regularly with other couples, we challenged each other to live out our faith in our everyday lives. More recently, God has led us into other ministries such as teaching Confirmation and being Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for the sick. But in each of these ministries, God still proves to us that He can’t be outdone in His generosity. We still receive far more than it seems we give.

But to focus again on treasure, let us tell you what stewardship of treasure is not. It is not a get-rich scheme. It is not a guarantee that you’ll never lose your job. We photo: bigstock 95554616 know. Just ask us. It is not a technique to avoid ever 10 More Informed making unlucky stock picks or investment decisions. Again, In our stewardship journey, we are asked to decide what just ask us. We know. Stewardship is not about giving organizations, among so many wonderful causes and because God needs the money. charities, to give our treasure to. Each individual and family should carefully take this matter up in prayer. But it is a way to ensure that greed and envy never find a home in your heart. It is a way, for the most part, to make For us, we’ve determined that our faith is the most critical money a “non-issue” in your life. It is a way to keep you aspect of our lives, for without faith and without God, focused on the fact that you have what you have because what would we really have? We are too often reminded of God’s generosity, not because you “earned it.” And it’s a of what a culture looks like that fails to put God first, or way to realize that our need for God and our need to “give even put Him anywhere near the top. For our family, there back” to God is stronger than God’s need to receive. is no greater need than spreading the good news. Our giving reflects the high priority we place on our Church community, both locally at St. Thomas More, and to our Stewardship is larger Church, the Archdiocese of Denver. This “Body of Christ” is the community we gather with on Sundays and not about giving throughout the week, encouraging and sustaining us and because God needs so many others on our journey. the money. Our personal giving also acknowledges the great work being done by many other organizations – from the Christian radio station that plays throughout our home and For each of us, stewardship will be a different level of cars, to agencies helping those in need such as Catholic commitment and a different combination of our prayer, Charities, Samaritan House and Seeds of Hope, to the time, talent and treasure. And in striving to live the life of “ schools that served us and now our children. We humbly a Christian steward, we all follow the example of others remind ourselves that the need for these organizations to before us and set an example for those who follow. receive our gifts may be great, but it pales compared to our need to give. Our daughters Laura and Michelle want to encourage young people to not wait all the way to the college years We want to thank you for this opportunity to share with before embracing stewardship. There are so many ways to you some of our thoughts and experiences of stewardship. give back of your time, talent and treasure. We know that we have benefited from the wonderful

example of love and service which so many people live out Around six years ago, Laura and Michelle began sponsoring in this community. Our lives and the lives of our children a needy child through the Christian Foundation for have been deeply touched by the generosity of others. Children and Aging. Once they were old enough to start May God help each of us gathered here to truly be His making the $15 monthly payments themselves, the two hands and feet to the world. u sisters took over. Receiving letters and pictures from a little girl in Colombia was a reward in itself as Laura and Michelle heard about the girl’s schooling, her family life and her growth with God. In one of the letters, her mother writes, “We want to thank you very much for the generous Annual Stewardship of help you give to my child through the good Franciscan . The nuns made a Christmas party for all the children. Treasure Program In your name they gave her a very beautiful gift of dresses and shoes. She was so happy because it was the only gift she received this Christmas.” Letters like these are Saturday & Sunday, October 24 & 25 reminders of how lucky we are to live where we live, even as we take so much for granted. During all Masses this weekend, our pastor Monsignor Tom will invite each member of our parish family to Since the beginning of high school, Laura and Michelle reflect on the gifts we have received and pray about have been involved with the high school youth group how God wants us to use these gifts to share in His Breakaway and joined the Youth Choir a year later. Through work in our parish. He will encourage our participation these ministries, they have experienced the joy of sharing in this important effort that will continue to improve St. their time and talent with the Lord by helping to lead the Thomas More Catholic Parish’s future financial outlook congregation in song, helping others grow in their faith and the quality of pastoral life. Together we can work life and through various service projects within the youth to advance the mission and ministry of the Church group. There are many opportunities for youth to be as by sharing the gifts God has so generously given us. much a part of stewardship as the older generations. We welcome you to join us in joyfully supporting the Giving back to God should not be reserved for adults. Why annual Stewardship of Treasure Program. wait until you’re older when your life can be blessed now? October 2015 11 Who is God? clarifying our image of God as a key to prayer

By Maryanne Carter holy, knowing God will forgive you? If God is all powerful, why doesn’t He stop bad things from happening? Once “Prayer is living with God in the here and now.” you begin to understand who you think God is, you will – Henri J.M. Nouwen know when your image of God is getting in the way of communication with God and your relationship with God. Prayer comes in many, many forms. Prayer is the relationship between the loving God and His beloved. This same thing often happens in marriage. You are madly It is our lifeline. It is the language we use to talk to God in love, get married and at some point you realize your and the language God can use to talk to us. Throughout spouse isn’t quite who you thought they were. They might our life God calls us to be in a personal relationship with not do everything exactly as you want, they might have Him. Since we are each unique individuals, our personal different ideas than you do, they might surprise you with prayer lives are unique to each of us and to the unique how to raise the kids. It might be hard to move past “I relationship we have with God. didn’t think you were like this!” or “I didn’t know this about you.” Before entering into prayer, St. Teresa of Ávila tells us to always take a moment, gather yourself together and call Often God is different than the “box” we’ve neatly placed to mind: to whom are you about to speak? Who are you Him in. We need to stop and ask, “Who are you, God?” If addressing? Who is this Lord before whom the angels we are going to grow closer to God, we really need to get tremble? to know Him.

A stumbling block for a personal relationship with Following are some ways of understanding your image of Christ can be our image of God. Who is God to you? It is God you may choose to try: important to spend some time with this question. If your ŠŠ Write down all the names and titles you have for God. image of God is of a strict judge, are you fearful of what ŠŠ Write a description of God. He may ask of you so you don’t want to get too close? If ŠŠ Ponder the question, “Who is God?” God is only love and kindness, why would you try to be ŠŠ Read your favorite Gospel story and place yourself in the story, as one of the characters or as an observer. How do you relate to Jesus and the story? ŠŠ Before starting to pray, visualize yourself sitting down with God for coffee. ŠŠ When making the Sign of the Cross, focus on each person of the you are addressing.

Once you are aware of your image of God, ask God to teach you who He is. Ask for the grace to grow closer to Him in an authentic relationship. Then, turn your attention to God as your very best friend and begin a conversation.

“He does not ask much of us, merely a thought of Him from time to time, a little act of adoration, sometimes to ask for His grace, sometimes to offer Him your sufferings, at other times to thank Him for the graces, past and present, He has bestowed on you, in the midst of your troubles, to take solace in Him as often as you can. Lift up your heart to Him during your meals and in company; the least little remembrance will always be the most pleasing to Him. One need not cry out very loudly; He is nearer to us than we think.” ― Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God

photo: Liturgical Publications, Inc. 12 More Informed Calling All Current EMHCs! remandation seminar required to continue to serve

In the Archdiocese of Denver, all Extraordinary Ministers Three seminars, which each contain both a spiritual and a of Holy Communion (EMHC) who serve at Mass, hospitals, practical component, have been scheduled at St. Thomas nursing homes or to the homebound must have their More from which to choose: mandation to serve renewed by attending a seminar before the First Sunday of Advent, November 29, 2015. Tuesday, October 13: 7:00–9:00pm in the church (Registration begins at 6:30pm) Presenter: Shannon Thurman, Seminarian

Saturday, October 17: 8:30–10:30am in the church (Registration begins at 8:00am) Presenter: Fr. Doug Grandon

Wednesday, October 21: 10:00am–12:00pm in the church (Registration begins at 9:30am) Presenter: Brett Manero, STM Evangelization and Young Adult Ministry Coordinator

If you are unable to attend one of these three seminars, please attend the training class for new EMHCs on Monday, October 5 from 7:00–9:00pm at St. Thomas More.

For questions or more information, contact Irene Lindemer at 303.221.9181 or [email protected].

Thank you for your dedication and important service to the parishioners of St. Thomas More as an EMHC! u Becoming the YOU God Created God knew us before we were born and molded and shaped us into unique creations filled with life and purpose to give Him glory. With our gifts and talents, we are called to become that fearfully and wonderfully made human being A Special Event only we can be. This is a task that is at times much more difficult than it sounds. Join Us for an Evening of Inspiration!

Come and listen to international stewardship speaker, Tracy Earl Thursday, October 8 Welliver. He is a writer, teacher, presenter and former pastoral 7:00pm associate who now works full-time with parishes and dioceses helping in McCallin Hall create more vibrant and Spirit-filled communities. He is the Director of Parish Community and Engagement ALL ARE WELCOME TO COME! for Liturgical Publications. u

October 2015 13 Living the Liturgy celebrating the church’s feasts & seasons

By Jeff McGarrity, Director of Liturgy & Music

wed Our Lady of the Rosary: 7 STM Holy Hour & Rosary October October is the Month of the Rosary, so pray the rosary as a family or join the students of our parish school in a Holy Hour and Rosary at 2:00pm. fri Communal Celebration 2 of Anointing of the Sick fri After the 9:00am Mass, several of our priests will St. Margaret Mary celebrate a Communal Anointing of the Sick, one of 16 Alacoque the seven sacraments, for anyone who has a serious illness or those who are over 75 years old. This Jesus appeared to St. Margaret sacrament brings physical or spiritual healing to those Mary Alacoque from 1673 to who are ill. If you are not able to attend at this time, 1675, entrusting to her the contact the parish office to ask a priest to celebrate mission to establish the devotion this sacrament with you. to the Sacred Heart. Many families enthrone an image of the Sacred Heart in their home signifying that Christ is the King of sun St. Francis of Assisi, our hearts and our home. Search 4 “Enthronement of the Sacred Patron Saint of Colorado Heart” online for the steps to Bring your pets, large and small, enthrone an image of the Sacred to a parish-wide Blessing of Heart in your home this day. the Animals this day at 2:30pm at the Ten Commandments monument. sat Middle School 24 Confirmation mon Healing Mass 5 Pray for our students celebrating the Sacrament of Confirmation this day and on Saturday, November 7. At 6:00pm in the church, Father Israel will celebrate Mass, after which there will be a time of prayer for healing and the laying on of hands. This prayer “Living the Liturgy” shares ideas for celebrating the time is not the sacrament of Anointing of the Sick Church’s feasts and seasons at St. Thomas More, in and therefore is open to all interested in prayer the archdiocese and in your home. You can pull these for healing. Please join us for this Mass and for the pages out and post them somewhere in your home November Healing Mass, which will be Monday, for easy reference. November 9.

14 More Informed thu First Reconciliation 19 November Pray for the children from our parish who will be celebrating their First Reconciliation this day at 5:00 and 7:00pm and this Saturday, November 21. (Regular confessions will take place at 6:30pm.) sun All Saints Day and 1 RCIA Rite of Welcome sun Solemnity of Christ the This year, All Saints 22 King Day falls on a Sunday and so the relics of This is the final Sunday of the which our parish is liturgical year, and the First the custodian will Sunday of Advent is next week. be exposed after all Do you need new Advent candles weekend Masses. this year? What “Liturgical New Year’s Resolution” will you make The RCIA Rite of Welcome will take place at the about your participation in Mass 8:30am Mass. At this rite, those who are participating or a liturgical ministry during the in the Rite of Christian Initiation express their desire coming year? to continue their walk toward the sacraments at Eastertime. Pray that the Lord will draw them closer to His heart as they grow in their friendship with Him. thu Thanksgiving 26 mon All Souls Day There is only a Mass at 9:00am this day, not at 6:30am. 2 When you gather for your Thanksgiving meal, read from St. Paul’s First Letter to the Thessalonians: Find photos of family members or “Rejoice always, pray constantly, give thanks in all friends who have died and place them circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus on a “home altar” with candles and a for you.” (16–18) Bible today and throughout November. Parishioners have shared photos of loved ones who have died during the past sat year. These photos will be displayed in First Sunday of Advent the sanctuary on the All Souls Memorial 29 Photo Board during the 6:30am & 9:00am Masses and a special 7:00pm Mass. Check out the December issue of More Informed for ideas for celebrating Advent in your home.

Relics 15 St. Teresa of Ávila 16 St. Margaret Mary Alacoque and St. Gerard St. Thomas More Parish is the custodian of numerous Majella relics. On the feast day of the saint, the relic will be 20 St. Paul of the Cross exposed for veneration after the 6:30am & 9:00am 24 St. Masses on weekdays, the 7:30am, 4:00pm & 5:30pm 28 St. Jude Masses on Saturdays or all Masses on Sundays. November October 1 All Saints Day (All relics exposed) 1 St. Thérèse of Lisieux 13 St. Francis Xavier Cabrini 4 St. Francis 15 St. Albert the Great 5 St. Faustina and Bl. Francis Xavier Seelos 28 St. Catherine Labouré

October 2015 15 Making a Difference time & talent fair 2015

“If not us, who? If not here, where? If not now, when? If A fair isn’t complete without great food, and our favorite not for the Kingdom, why?” These words inspired many Big Bill’s delicious pizza, savory popcorn provided by the St. Thomas More parishioners to explore new, exciting Knights and a light breakfast served Sunday morning by ways to use the talents God has given them to help others Mile High Catering was enjoyed with gusto. The clowns and serve Him. During the Stewardship of Time & Talent added more fun and whimsy to the event with balloon Weekend on August 22 and 23, parishioners selected animals and face painting. ministries in which they could use their gifts to make a difference in the lives of others. If you missed the fair, learn more about the various ministries available by reading our new parish guidebook, After all weekend Masses, enthusiastic representatives mailed to all registered parishioners, or on our website from our rich variety of ministries were available to at www.stthomasmore.org. Find a couple ministries that answer questions and provide more information about you and best fit your talents, and then contact the the ministry. representatives to learn more. u

16 More Informed photography by Dave Rich October 2015 17 Lives Committed to God celebrating 70 years together

By Barbara Peterson Joseph Kropf and Sylvia Titrant met shortly before Joe shipped overseas during WWII. Their love-at-first-glance For longtime STM parishioners Joseph and Sylvia Kropf, romance deepened as their letters flew between Europe the Church has always been woven into their lives along and America. with trust, respect and a dash of humor throughout their marriage. They celebrated their 70th anniversary this At Convair Air Lines / Willow Run, Sylvia helped build war summer, illustrating a lifelong commitment to the planes. Commissioned by General Patton, First Lieutenant beautiful sacrament of Holy Matrimony. Joe returned home shortly before their wedding on July 23, 1945 at St. Ambrose Parish in Grosse Pointe, Michigan. Korea recalled Joe in 1950 to Alaska via Ft. Carson while Sylvia stayed in Colorado. Joe, Sylvia and their daughter Joan returned to Detroit in 1953, where daughters Anne-Maria and Klaire were added to the family. They also hosted foreign students; Sylvia played matchmaker for two of them.

Their love of skiing drew the family back to the Colorado mountains. Joe became a CPA. Moving to Heritage Village in 1977, they joined STM, becoming Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and members of the Knights of Columbus and Ladies Auxilary.

“We thank the Lord for many blessings,” said Sylvia. Joe added, “Especially family and country.” u

Honoring Marriage A Prayer for Marriage Join with Archbishop Aquila and the Archdiocese of Denver All people of every vocation are invited to pray this to celebrate marriage at the annual Anniversary Mass! beautiful prayer for marriage:

Sunday, October 11 Most gracious God, we thank you for creating us in 1:00pm Mass, with a reception following Mass your image and likeness. Thank you for consecrating Parish marriage, that through this sacrament man and woman 11385 Grant Drive in Northglenn become one body, as your Son became one with His Church. Every year, the archdiocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life Ministries invites couples throughout the archdiocese Through the grace of the Holy Spirit, may all married that have or will be celebrating their 25th, 50th or 50+ couples grow in holiness as they live their vocation as anniversaries to attend the annual Anniversary Mass. husband and wife. Defend them from every evil and This year’s Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop guide them ever closer to your son Jesus. Let their love Samuel J. Aquila. The Mass will include a renewing of the for each other be an unbroken seal upon their hearts. marital vows. We celebrate with joy the witness of the And may they be open to life as you call them to join in couples’ fidelity to the sacrament of marriage. There is creation. no cost for the event. Bless all couples in their work and in their play. Be with Although the RSVP deadline has passed for names to them in life’s joys and sorrow, that through the grace of be listed in the program, you are still welcome and the Holy Spirit they may one day praise you together in encouraged to come attend the Mass. All couples, the heavenly kingdom. especially newly married couples, are also invited to attend We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen. and be inspired by the witness of these marriages. u 18 More Informed St. Junípero Serra california missions reflect his legacy

By Mike Kunsman

In September, Blessed Junípero Serra, now St. Serra, was canonized in our nation’s capital by his Holiness, Pope Francis. A large contingent from the Catholic Serra International Organization (Serra Club), which bears his name as the patron, attended the ceremony.

St. Serra was chosen as the patron of Serra International because of his life of priestly zeal and heroic virtue. Founder and first Padre Presidente of the Spanish missions of California, Father Serra personally established the first nine missions of the 21 Spanish missions in California, six of which I have had the pleasure of visiting.

First mission (founded July 1769) Just a year after the completion of the first church Father photo by Mike Kunsman Serra founded, Mission San Diego de Alcala, it was attacked and burned to the ground. Padre Serra returned Missions, is best known for its mission bell wall that in 1776 and began reconstruction. The Mission and houses bronze bells cast in in about 1786. There outbuildings were completed in 1780. Called the Mother are four bells for San Vincente, San Juan, San Antonio and of the Missions, it is now a basilica, and regular parish San Rafael. Originally in the bell tower of the great stone services are conducted there. church, they were moved to the Campanario in 1812, after they came crashing down during a huge earthquake that Second mission (founded June 1770) year. Due to damage and sound quality, they were recast Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo, present-day in the year 2000. The originals are on display as a silent Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. symbol. A new basilica church stands today alongside the old mission and is a very active and beautiful parish center. Third mission (founded July 1771) A statue of Father Serra stands in front of Mission San Seventh mission (founded June 1776) Antonio de Padua. A complete restoration of the church Mission San Francisco de Asís, present-day San Francisco, and quadrangle was completed in 1950, and it’s still an California chain of missions. active parish operated by the . Eighth mission (founded January 1777) Fourth mission (founded September 1771) Mission Santa Clara de Asís, present-day city of Santa Clara, Mission San Gabriel was designed by a Spanish priest. California. The church features a buttressed wall, vaulted roof and fortress-like appearance. It is a working parish for the city Ninth mission (last mission; founded March 1782) of San Gabriel and is staffed by the Claretians. It features Called the Mission by the Sea, founded on Easter Sunday, an annual Fiesta on Labor Day weekends. San Buenaventura Mission was the only mission to have wooden bells. It also operates as a parish church for the Fifth mission (founded September 1772) town of San Buenaventura. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa was named for St. Louis, Bishop of Toulouse, . The statue of St. Louis and I invite all faithful followers of Christ with a truly Franciscan paintings of the Stations of the Cross were brought from heart to join me in my quest to visit all of the 21 missions. Spain. Since California became a state in 1848, this mission has functioned as a parish church for the city of San I’m hopeful and pray that Serra Clubs benefit even slightly Luis Obispo. As it appears today, it serves as an effective from our patron’s sainthood, centuries in the making. reminder of its origins and the history of the area. Never before have we had such an incredible opportunity to share our present, ongoing Serran mission for vocations Sixth mission (founded November 1776) and personal spirituality, modeled after his own, with the Mission San Juan Capistrano, called the Jewel of the entire world. u October 2015 19 Bella Natural Women’s Care healthcare honoring the dignity of women

By Nancy Rapp the bishop’s blessing. A very special privilege was granted to have the Blessed Sacrament reposed in the tabernacle About a year ago, I attended an informational meeting in their beautiful prayer chapel. Bella’s primary mission is at STM about a new women’s healthcare clinic that was to embrace every woman with dignity, always following opening up in the Denver area called “Bella Natural Catholic moral teaching in their medical decisions. Cassie Women’s Care.” At the meeting, two women spoke, a told me that Bella also reaches out to women who might Catholic mother and daughter, both nurses, who had spent otherwise terminate their pregnancies and has already time with a medical mission in Peru. There, they saw the saved at least 3 babies. plight of numerous women who needed female medicine and also Christ-centered spiritual and emotional care. Bella has six members on their team, a medical staff with They saw the need for compassionate healthcare that decades of combined experience in the OB-GYN world. medical professionals with Catholic family values could They gather from all over the U.S. and are excited to uniquely provide: healthcare for all women - naturally, as bring their talents to Denver’s front range with a natural God intended it. They brought their vision to Denver and and scientific approach to healing, together with prayer are now realizing their long-held dream to open a truly support, in the context of the most up-to-date technology. Catholic medical facility that caters to women in all stages of life. Any woman interested in finding out more about Bella should visit their website www.BellaNWC.org. or call them Bella was opened in 2014. According to Cassie Pippin (who, at 303.789.4968. They have need of prayer, patients, and along with her husband, Adam, coordinates the prayer donations. Anyone interested in joining the prayer team team for Bella), the non-profit facility began under the should contact Cassie at [email protected]. u auspices of the Archdiocese of Denver, with a Mass and Divine Mercy Supportive Care

By Mary Sue Kenny and their families. She is Catholic and her story is worth hearing. The event will begin with Mass at 6:30am followed Divine Mercy Supportive Care is honored to host the first with breakfast at 7:15am to 9:00am. The cost is $35.00 per All Souls Day Breakfast on Monday, November 2 at St. person. Visit www.dmsci.org to register. Thomas More to commemorate the souls of all who have died. We are privileged to have as our keynote speaker Divine Mercy Supportive Care serves as an advocate Kathy Kalina, CHPN, a certified hospice and palliative nurse and guardian of the faithful by assisting patients and from Fort Worth, Texas. She is also the author of Midwife their families in end-of-life decisions consistent with the for Souls, a pastoral guide for care workers, patients teachings of the Catholic Church. We offer compassionate care to people of all faiths who face end-of-life illness while affirming the dignity and sanctity of human life.

While hospice care is not a new concept, at Divine Mercy we have distinguished ourselves by offering care that is in keeping with the 2000-year rich tradition of Catholic healthcare to help assure that Catholics and their families receive sustenance in their faith at a time when a dying family member is as close to God as he or she will ever be while still on earth.

Whether the need is for medical services, guidance on ethical or faith decisions, or simply finding an open door where others were closed, Divine Mercy is here to help in a distinctively Catholic manner. Discover more at www.dmsci.org. u photo: Divine Mercy Supportive Care

20 More Informed Responding to a Need stm diaper disciples

It is hard to imagine your loved ones, friends or employees forced to choose between buying diapers and buying food to feed their family. Sadly, nearly one in three families in Colorado may face this choice.

When the ministry Faith in Action Together (FIAT) was looking for a family Lenten project, Caroline Peltes remembered receiving an email from about a diaper drive. The more she researched the topic, the more she learned about this great need in our state. STM Catholic School and Parish joined forces this past Lent to collect over 30,000 diapers. Volunteers delivered them to Denver Gabriel House during a time when the diaper shelves were completely empty. They were so grateful.

STM’s newest ministry, Diaper Disciples, was created soon after. Along with The Bottom Line Diaper Bank of Catholic Charities, the two ministries work to highlight the need and gain resources for this silent crisis in Colorado. They strive to support those in need of this most basic item, photo: bigstock 63378337 without embarrassment or judgment. Diaper Awareness Week At a cost of $100 or more per month per child, diapers September 28 to October 4 become a luxury item for many families as government subsidies such as food stamps and Women, Infants Even though diapers will be collected year round, STM and Children (WIC) do not cover the cost of diapers. Diaper Disciples are hosting a Diaper Drive during Families sometimes find themselves cleaning and reusing this week to help reach that goal. Diaper donations disposable diapers because they cannot afford to purchase (greatest need: sizes 4, 5 and 6) and wipes can be new diapers. Our senior population and other adults in dropped off in the diaper bins located by the food need similarly face financial difficulties purchasing adult donation bins in the church entrances. For cash diapers with no support from Medicare or Medicaid. donations, with our buying power, we can purchase almost 5 diapers for every dollar donated! Since its inception, The Bottom Line has provided over 200,000 diapers to families and seniors throughout the Through your amazing support, we can put 500,000 Denver Metro area. Their goal is to distribute 500,000 diapers into the hands (and on the bottoms) of those diapers this year. Please contact us if you would like to help in need. Thank you and God Bless! at [email protected]. u Help to Leave Poverty Behind Circles Denver is a new ministry of Catholic Charities that helps motivated individuals get out of poverty. Through an approach that combines support from our dedicated volunteers and the resources of organizations and communities, we create an environment that educates, empowers and equips our members to move up and out of poverty successfully. u If you are interested in walking alongside an individual seeking to escape poverty, or have questions, contact Colleen Quinn at [email protected] or 720.417.8613.

October 2015 21 Hope for a Faith-filled Community carmelites’ missions in tanzania

By Carly McGillick primary school and one secondary boarding school. Generous sponsors provide funding for books, supplies and St. Thomas More parishioners enjoyed a three-week visit other necessities so children can go to school. The students from Fr. Marlon Rodrigues, O.C.D. in August, during which are “very grateful to those who sponsor them,” Father he shared about the Carmelites’ mission work. Father Marlon reported. “They are doing well in their studies.” Marlon was a parochial vicar at STM from 2008–2011. The history of the Carmelites in the Archdiocese of Denver The mission in Tanzania began in 1983, when the bishop stretches back 15 years, when Father Israel first came to of Morogoro asked for missionaries to come work in the seminary to study. The archdiocese offered a mission his diocese. Priests from India came to help. They faced appeal and opportunities for pastoral ministry in a parish. difficulties, including malaria and the struggles of learning Other parishes where Carmelites have ministered include a new language. In 1992, the took up St. Mary Magdalene, St. Mary in Littleton and Risen Christ. the mission, which has now expanded to five dioceses with seven parishes, two schools and a spirituality center. They Father Marlon recalled the warm welcome he received plan to add new parishes and another spirituality center. from the archbishop, pastor and people of St. Thomas More when he arrived in 2008. Currently, two Carmelite Primary goals of the mission include evangelization, priests, Fr. Israel Gonsalves, O.C.D. and Fr. Rohan Miranda, spreading spirituality and promoting vocations. “We see O.C.D., serve at STM. “It is a good sign that the archdiocese the growth of the Catholic population,” Father Marlon said. is happy with our services,” Father Marlon said.

The Carmelites cater to the pastoral, spiritual and social He invites parishioners of St. Thomas More to travel needs of the Tanzanians, many of whom live in poverty. to Tanzania to visit the mission. Observing firsthand The Carmelites provide food to starving people through the difficulties and joys of the people is powerful and St. Vincent de Paul Society. They also help people receive enriching, he said. “You may see photos – but come see essential medical care they could not otherwise afford. the reality of the lives of people. It makes a difference.”

Also, he encourages parishioners to pray for the mission. Other ways to help and “collaborate with the mission work” include sponsorship of seminarians and children, assistance meeting the survival needs of people in poverty and funding for building projects for the mission to expand and thrive. (See the information box on the next page, “Karibu-Sana, Friends of Carmelite Missions TZ,” for details.) STM parishioners’ support plays a vital role “to help the people in their spiritual lives – people who hunger and thirst for God,” Father Marlon said.

The blossoming Catholic Church in Tanzania photography by Carla Little has a “beautiful heart and beautiful liturgies,” Father Marlon said. During his Father Marlon identified a need for sponsorship of experiences with the Tanzanian people, he is inspired by seminarians for their education. “Vocations are increasing “the love and the care they have shown us.” to our Discalced Carmelite order,” which is wonderful, Father Marlon said. But as more people answer the call to Father Marlon added, “We see healing taking place in the their vocation, the financial support required also rises. lives of the people. But it is the Lord to be praised and The cost of formation per seminarian is $3,600 per year. glorified, for He is the one to bring success to the work of our hands. It’s not us doing it; it is the Lord working Another need of the mission is assistance with education through us to see the growth of people coming to the for children. The Carmelites have two schools: one nursery/ Church. It is a great sign of hope.” u 22 More Informed A Transformative Experience friends of carmelite missions tz

By Carla Little ordinations of three My family (husband Pat and sons Eli and Sam) and I went seminarians. to Tanzania in July 2014. We went to see the Carmelite The church had Missions and to visit the place that our dedicated (visiting murals painted Carmelites) priests work so hard for. It was a great trip, by hand by a getting to see all that the missions stand for and how the local man. The people and the priests and missionaries live in order to tools in the offer the gospel to the people. They work hard, offering construction education and formation for seminarians, running schools were far from for the people and spreading the gospel. the technology in the States. Aside from the dramatic differences in the living conditions in (the lack of clean water or showers, the power It was amazing to see how the people loved God. They outages that are frequent, or the intense poverty of sang praises for hours and hours, and young and old stayed Tanzania), what really touched us and inspired us in for the entire church service, which lasted seven hours. Tanzania was the great love of the Carmelites for the The school children are very grateful for the opportunity people. The Missions are an exercise of the Love of to go to school and for the education that the Carmelite Christ made visual through their schools, churches and schools provide. It was truly awe-inspiring to see so interactions with their flock. much love and dedication in the hearts of the people and through the compassion of the Carmelites. When we went to Tanzania, we saw the great need for the missions and people of Africa. The priests live in very When we left Africa, we felt an overwhelming call to help humble surroundings and give so much to the people. the missions there. We knew there was a need for a non- There was endless homelessness and poverty and yet a profit organization, so we set out on the path of learning great deal of joy. how to do it and getting the organization set up. After several months of research and attempts, we finally found When we arrived, they were working towards the out that the IRS had approved our organization and Karibu- dedication of a new church, which was not subsidized by Sana, Friends of Carmelite Missions TZ was formed. u the diocese but was funded by donations of the people. There were people in Tanzania giving as well as donors in the States. They worked tirelessly day and night to get Karibu-Sana, Friends of Carmelite Missions TZ the church ready to celebrate the dedication and the For more information, visit www.karibu-sana.com and www.carmelitemissionstz.org. Join our email list by emailing [email protected] so we can let you know all that is happening! For questions, contact our Carmelite priests, Father Israel or Father Rohan, in the parish office. All donations received directly support the Carmelites’ important mission work in Tanzania. The organization is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. To assist financially, please make a check out to “Karibu-Sana Friends of Carmelites TZ.” On the memo line, you may write where you would like it to be used: “Carmel School,” “Seminarian” or whatever you wish. Checks may be given to Father Israel or Father Rohan, to the receptionist at the parish office or mailed to: Karibu-Sana, Friends of Carmelites TZ 8200 South Quebec Street Box A 3127 Centennial, CO 80112 Thank you for your help and support of the mission!

October 2015 23 stm catholic school

The Lion’s Roar

Blessings for a New School Year

STM Catholic School began the 2015–16 academic school year with an abundance of excitement and anticipation. It is through God’s love that we look forward to many blessings both in and out of the classroom. We wish our students, parents and staff a wonderful year ahead.

A Prayer for Students You may pray this special prayer with your family, friends or on your own.

O Lord God, School is not always easy. Some days, it is very difficult, and I struggle to relax and be at peace. Yet I know that you will give me patience, wisdom and courage to be excellent in every way, and you will help me love others as you love me. Amen. – David Bennett

24 More Informed Off to a Great Start! news from around the school

The National Beta Club is an organization that develops leadership and character through service. STM Catholic Middle School is fortunate to have Beta Club. Our students participate in many service activities for our school, parish and community. The activities include making notes of gratitude for the school’s staff retreat, organizing food and Our St. Thomas More Catholic students in fifth and winter coat drives and visiting the nursing home. seventh grades participated in the Knights of Columbus essay contest in May.

The fifth grade’s subject was “The Importance of Religious Freedom.” The winners were, for first place, Eli Kerschen and Greta Leege. The honorable mention winners for fifth grade were Peter Kelley and Molly Keating.

The seventh grade theme was “The Value of a Catholic Education.” The winners for first place were Josh Neppel and Madeline Metzger. The honorable mention winners were John Dennen and Hailey Martinez.

The first place winners for seventh grade were awarded The first grade class is helping raise money for their school a $750 scholarship to be used toward tuition for eighth by creating art work for greeting cards to be sold for the grade. Congratulations to our students for writing Mane Event. Every year the students contribute their time outstanding essays for the Knights of Columbus! and talent to support their school. u

Join Us for the Mane Event! Support our parish school, STM Catholic

Save the Date: Saturday, November 14 Marriott Denver Tech Center 5:30pm Silent Auction Begins 7:00pm Dinner and Live Auction 9:30pm Dancing All are welcome! Exciting live auction items include a reserved first row for Christmas Mass, reserved church parking for a year, and a private Mass in your home with Monsignor Tom! $75 per person includes drink tickets and dinner. Watch upcoming STM bulletins for information on how to RSVP.

October 2015 25 middle school & high school youth

The Spark

A Huge Success!

By Annie Deschane Seventh Grade Student

Recently I went on a mission trip with the middle school youth group at St. Thomas More to Winter Park. While we were in Winter Park, we participated as counselors in a Bible sports camp for elementary-aged kids. I participated in the cheer camp and had so much fun doing it. The other sports at the camp were soccer, basketball, baseball, martial arts, and volleyball.

In between sports sessions, the coaches would read the kids Bible verses and teach them lessons about God. From what I saw, the kids really enjoyed both the Bible talks and the sports and they were always respectful to the coaches and to us counselors. The kids were taught a lot about Catholic life and even I learned a thing or two. After the camp every day, the youth group would go to dinner It was fun to go to dinner with some of the priests, and together and everyone became better and better friends. with some of the Catholic volunteers from the area. After dinner, we would play games and hang out together. We all had a really good time.

Some of my best memories of the trip were playing with the kids at the camp, the bus rides and Water World. The girls in the cheer camp were super fun to teach and they did a great job learning all of the cheers.

The bus rides were also very fun because Greg, our youth group leader, would play music and all the kids had fun talking to each other and playing games.

As a Mission Trip tradition, we went to Water World the day after the camp was over and that was a day that I will never forget. We all had so much fun going on rides together and we especially had fun racing each other on the slides.

Overall, I would call the trip a huge success. We all learned so much about God, and had so much fun teaching younger kids about Him too. u 26 More Informed From Strangers to Family weeds, love and laughter

By Aline Cervantes whom we met a couple years ago on our Mission Possible Spring Break mission trip to Shiprock (also in New Mexico). Last August a group of teens, including me, went to serve Father Pat helped all of us to understand how to answer on the Zuni Reservation in New Mexico. Zuni is located 150 God’s calling and to find our peace. He is such a joy to miles west of Albuquerque. The town of Zuni is neither the be around, not to mention his accent is AMAZING! (He is wealthiest nor the “fanciest,” but it is the town that made from Scotland.) We also had the honor of having our very me realize how thankful and lucky I am to be able to go to own Fr. Greg Lesher come with us on this trip. He helped school. We worked at St. Anthony Indian Catholic School, us so much with the pulling of weeds and was there if we helping teachers get ready for the start of the new school needed a friend to talk to, or if we needed advice. And let’s year by organizing their classrooms. We moved books, not forget to mention his GREAT taste in music! bookshelves and desks. We also helped pull weeds. It may seem like it was not much, but to me it felt like we would On this trip we all shared laughter and frustration, but never finish pulling those weeds! There were definitely we all motivated one another. Mission trips are a great moments of frustration, but all I could think of were the experience. It’s crazy how one day you are all strangers and smiles and joy of the kids when they started school. the next you all love each other like one big family – a bit dysfunctional at times, and with many differences – but On this trip I also met amazing people who became family with the most important thing in common: our love for to me. We worked again with the amazing Fr. Pat McGuire, God. u

October 2015 27 Gratitude a way of life

Our Response to God''s Generosity

STEWARDSHIP Prayer w Time & Talent w Faith w Treasure w Vocations w Earth

28 More Informed