soonercatholic.org December 23, 2018 archokc.org Go Make Disciples He is Christ the Lord!

“While they were there, the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. … The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them. ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you news of great joy that will be for all people. Today, in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.”

- Luke 2:6-11

Seminole church OKC Vietnamese Youth Movement celebrates 90th anniversary leads prayer, evangelization

By Karen Anson Special to the Sooner Catholic

On Dec. 9, 1928, in the austere surroundings of Seminole City Hall, an Irish with a long-white beard like a medieval Santa Claus, intoned the words, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” On that day, along with the baby being baptized, Seminole County’s Catholics gained a new identity, connected as a new community of believers and be- ginning a new way of life in

continued on page 7

The 35th anniversary of the Vietnamese Eucharistic Movement Mary Immaculate Conception Chapter was celebrated on Dec. 8 at St. Andrew Dung-Lac in City. Photo Chris Porter/ Sooner Catholic.

By Tram Cao decree, encouraging children to receive Special to the Sooner Catholic communion at an early age. The Vietnam- ese Eucharistic Crusade was established by Saint Sulpice priest in 1929, in Ha Noi. The Vietnamese Youth Movement The Vietnamese Eucharistic Cru- (VEYM) is a branch of the apostle- sade eventually changed its name to The ship of prayer group. Founded in Vietnamese Eucharistic Youth Movement, 1915 in , by a priest named Bes- and after 1975, flourished in many oth- sières, the movement originally went by the er countries such as the United States, name the Eucharistic Crusade. France, Australia and Canada. In the Unit- The Eucharistic Crusade focused on the ed States, the organization goes by The formation of children and young people in the spirit of Pope Pius X Quam Singulari continued on page 8 2 December 23, 2018 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic December 23, 2018 3

Put Out Into the Deep Luke 5:4 Find more Enid Catholic community celebrates 125 years

news on the he Catholic community Saint Francis Xavier on Dec. 3, in Enid will reflect with the O come let us adore him! website in Enid is celebrating which included veneration of archdiocese on the soon-to-be- T125 years of the pres- a relic of Saint Francis Xavi- released pastoral letter of Arch- ence of the Church in Enid. The er, and will close on Sept. 3 at bishop Coakley and celebrate In one of our most beloved Christmas carols we silence and poverty of By Sooner Catholic Staff first Mass was celebrated in Saint Gregory the Great. During the gifts the parishes bring to sing the joyful refrain, “O come, let us adore him.” the stable at Bethlehem. Enid on Nov. 14, 1893, in the the nine months, parishioners the city. Christmas invites all the faithful to a renewed spirit God is with us. Additional coverage of home of adoration and wonder before the mystery we cele- God’s humility dis- Church and archdiocesan of Hugo brate: The word has become flesh. God has become played so poignantly news and events, only on Jacobs. a man born of the Virgin Mary. His name is Jesus. in the manger evokes www.soonercatholic.org. Father He has been born for us and for our salvation in the astonishment and Joseph brings our a To send photos, event Beck, Archbishop Paul S. Coakley restless hearts information or story ideas, pastor to silence before e-mail [email protected]. of Saint such a great and unexpected gift. The Cat- Joseph echism of the teaches, “No a Suicide prevention in Hen- one, shepherd or wise man, can approach training - Catholic Charities nessey, God here below except by kneeling before encourages parishioners to came the manger at Bethlehem and adoring him participate in mental health to Enid that Wednesday hidden in the weakness of a newborn child” awareness training. QPR is a evening to minister to 17 (CCC 563). free one-hour suicide preven- Catholics. A piano now In the beautiful Gospel narratives of the tion training that provides housed in the Leven Cen- Christmas season, the angels announce three simple steps to reach ter at Saint Francis Xavier the birth of Jesus to the shepherds in their someone who may be feeling was used as the altar. The fields as tidings of great joy. The shep- hopeless. Professional coun- Catholic community in herds, in turn, glorify and praise God for seling also is available. Con- Enid was serviced by the all they are privileged to see and hear. The tact St. Joseph Counseling Top: Fr. Mark Mason, pastor, celerates Mass priests from Hennessey star guides the three wise men who bring Center at (405) 524-0969. with Fr. Kelly Edwards, associate pastor, Dcn. until the first parish was their gifts from afar and pay homage to the Val Ross and Dcn. Tony Crispo. Inset: Dcn. established in 1898. newborn King. Joseph is mysteriously and a A suicide grief sup- Val Ross carries a relic of St. Francis Xavier. The celebration of 125 powerfully silent as he submits himself in port group for people who Photos provided. years began with Mass at humble obedience to God’s plan. And, Mary have lost someone to sui- ponders all these things in her heart. The cide meets at St. Francis in mystery of Bethlehem invites us to adora- Oklahoma City on the third tion. Tuesday of each month at It is significant that Bethlehem, the place 6:30 p.m. in the Meerschaert of Jesus’ birth, means “house of bread.” House Call (405) 528-0485. Author Scott Hahn talks marriage, mercy and conversion Jesus comes to nourish the world by giving himself for the life of the world. Years later By Judy Hilovsky binds himself to us by a covenant and invites salvation: God is Father, Christ is Son and the he proclaims, “I AM the bread of life.” Jesus The Sooner Catholic us to bind ourselves to him and bind ourselves firstborn among brethren, heaven as a mar- continues to give himself for us and for our in families to each other. riage feast, the Church is the spouse of God, salvation each time the Paschal Mystery is YUKON – More than 750 people gathered in “At times these are bonds of love and other Christians as children of God. celebrated at Mass. He continues to nourish Saint John Nepomuk’s newly renovated sanc- “The Son became a us in Holy Communion and to dwell among tuary to hear nationally recognized author servant, so the ser- us truly present in the Blessed Sacrament. Scott Hahn on Dec. 1. vants can become Bethlehem is our first school of faith. The Hahn started the morning by telling the daughters and sons school of Bethlehem invites us to learn the crowd about himself and how the study of the of our beloved Father. @archokc lesson of adoration and humility. It begins Old Testament and the connection between the This is who we are – at the manger where Mary is our teacher. Jewish Passover and Jesus’s Last Supper was what it means to be As we ponder with her the mystery of the Archdiocese of the beginning of his path to Catholicism. Catholic,” Hahn said. word-made-flesh, we find that our hunger Oklahoma City Hahn was ordained in 1982 at Trinity Pres- He also talked about for the Eucharist and our desire to encoun- byterian Church in Virginia. He converted and the hardship his Arquidiócesis de entered the Catholic Church during the Easter conversion brought to ter and adore Jesus deepens. Oklahoma City As we are drawn more deeply into friend- Vigil in 1986. his marriage during a ship with Jesus through moments of ado- For Grace Fuqua, her husband Kody and several-year stretch. ration and our regular participation in the daughter Jane, it was an opportunity to meet Hahn’s wife, Kimber- Eucharist, our lives become increasingly Hahn, whose books helped answer questions ly, converted at Eas- eucharistic. Our encounter with God’s about the Catholic faith. ter 1990. Their book mercy fills us to overflowing with joy and Grace said, “I have an older brother and he “Rome Sweet Home” gratitude. We discover that what we have came into the Catholic Church two years ago. describes their con- received as a gift we need to give as a gift. I am his little sister and care about him dear- versions. But, even We become missionary disciples of mercy ly, so I had to figure out what he has gotten after she entered the for others. himself into and started reading and started Church, they were All these mysteries converge beautifully in my own narrative. I was reading a lot of Scott struggling. the Eucharistic liturgy, the Mass, which is Hahn’s books and he answered many of the “So many bad hab- Scott Hahn spoke with Grace Fuqua and the source and summit of our lives. common objections I had. Once those objec- its, so many lousy Jane while signing his book. Hahn spoke tions were answered in a rational way that communication skills, As we celebrate the birth of Christ this to more than 750 people Dec. 1 at St. John Christmas Season be assured of my prayers God our Father, made a lot more sense than my narrative as a Nepomuk in Yukon. Photos Judy Hilovsky/ so we finally went to Southern Baptist, and we converted.” a Catholic marriage for you and your loved ones throughout the every year we rejoice Sooner Catholic. New Year. God is with us! There was a short presentation on the counselor,” Hahn said. as we look forward to this non-profit Saint Paul Center for Biblical Theol- They were told there feast of our salvation. ogy, which Hahn founded and serves as pres- were cycles of love and May we welcome Christ ident. Its mission is to promote revitalization times it’s bonds that bind like chains. The Faqua Family – Grace, Jane seasons of life and they and Kody – traveled from Lawton as our Redeemer, of the priesthood, educate the laity and inspire But, they liberate us from giving into where they attend Holy Family needed to nurture. Archbishop Coakley’s Calendar and meet him with Catholics. our instant gratification ourselves in- to hear Scott Hahn speak. The “Now we have formed confidence when he comes “I admire him. I have read some of his work stead of our love ones,” Hahn said. family members are new converts a team and we are The following events are part of Archbishop Coakley’s official calendar. and listened to him on EWTN. He was much He spoke about God’s series of on the same side. to be our judge, to the Church. better than I even had hoped,” Nancy Baroni covenants in the Old Testament that Through 40 years of Dec. 27 – Seminarian Christmas Party, 6 p.m., St. John Nepomuk, Yukon who lives and reigns with said. man broke and then he established a marriage, we have Jan. 2-8 – U.S. bishops’ retreat, Mundelein Seminary, Mundelein, Ill. you and the Holy Spirit, one Phyllis Bennett agreed. “He’s a wonderful new covenant through Jesus Christ. This be- learned the lessons of mercy, forgiveness, love Jan. 11 – Personnel Board meeting, 1:30 p.m., Catholic Pastoral Center God, for ever and ever. speaker, quite humorous, and I would come came the establishment of a worldwide family. and learning to say, ‘I’m sorry’ and mean it.” Jan. 12 – Mass with diaconate formation class, 11 a.m., St. Francis de Sales Chapel, CPC Amen. again.” Hahn believes Jesus and the apostles used Judy Hilovsky is a freelance writer for the Jan. 13 – Confirmation, 5 p.m., St. Joseph, Hennessey Hahn talked about his belief that the Lord family-based language to describe his work of Sooner Catholic. 4 December 23, 2018 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic December 23, 2018 5

continued from page 4 Md. – where he successfully com- pleted his studies. Blessed Stanley Francis Rother: and was notably deficient in Latin. On May 25, 1963, Bishop Reed He is now the patron saint of all ordained 28-year-old Stanley Fran- priests. cis Rother a priest forever at The The first American martyr “I told Stanley that if he real- Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual ly wanted to be a priest,” Sister Help in Oklahoma City The re- Clarissa said years later, then he membrance card for Stanley Roth- By Maria Ruiz Scaperlanda a preparatory program in San particularly with Latin. should “pray and trust, and God er’s ordination included one simple Antonio designed for young men Decades later, reading Stanley’s would take care of things.” inscription: “For myself I am a Editor’s note: This article original- entering from high school. journals from that time, Sister The day Stanley left San Antonio, Christian. For the sake of others, I ly appeared in Liguorian Magazine. am a Priest.” In succinct, yet accu- Most Reverend Youngest brother Tom distinctly Marita learned that her brother the rector of Assumption Seminary In a world of superheroes, super- remembered that summer, when developed his habit of smoking wrote a letter to Oklahoma Bishop rate fashion, the statement reflect- Paul S. Coakley stars and MVPs, it may seem in- he turned 13. a pipe at seminary. Not surpris- Victor Reed, concluding: “I deeply ed Stanley’s vision for life – and his Archbishop of Oklahoma City conceivable that an ordinary man “It was hard on us when they ing to her, said Sister Marita, is regret to inform you that we have attitude about his vocation. Publisher from rural America could be recog- left. Sister Marita used to help me how important Mass, prayer and had to ask Mr. to Five years after ordination, Fa- nized officially as a saint, let alone dig potatoes, and that was over. the sacraments continued to be discontinue his studies for the ther Rother volunteered for Okla- Diane Clay be the first U.S. priest to be beati- And, Stan helped milk cows, so for him. Reading over his journal priesthood. … We have advised homa’s mission in Santiago Ati- Editor fied. But, Stanley Francis Rother is Jim and I had to take care of the entries, she noted, “it is obvious to him to leave, and he seemed quite tlán, Guatemala. When he arrived precisely that, an ordinary man on cow milking and all the chores. me that prayer was an important aware of the fact that he lacks the in 1968, he immediately fell in love the cusp of being canonized a saint Then, my dad always had a hun- part of his day, mentioning say- intellectual ability to continue on with the volatile and stunning land Dana Attocknie – and a perfect role model for all of dred acres of alfalfa to put up, so ing the Rosary ‘during Lent after for the priesthood.” of volcanoes and earthquakes, Managing Editor us who seek holiness in the midst that put the load on us, including dinner,’ or ‘after supper every day.’ In Oklahoma, Stanley’s pastor but above all, he found his heart’s of our ordinary lives. the plowing and the combining.” (Stanley also) noted at times about and the diocesan director of voca- vocation as a priest to the Tz’utujil In a farmhouse during a haunt- Mayan people. During those early seminary his daily meditation, sometimes tions took Stanley to Bishop Reed’s ing Oklahoma dust storm on Since “Stanley” is a foreign and Volume 40, Number 25 years, “Stan would always be home how sleepy he was, and occasion- house to discuss Stanley’s situ- March 27, 1935, Stanley became difficult name, he became “Padre for harvest,” Tom recalled. “Dad ally, how he thought he had a good ation. Even then, when asked by the first of five Rother children, his bishop, Stanley reiterated his Francisco,” after his baptismal Sooner Catholic Newspaper would run one combine and Stan meditation.” one of whom, a sister, died in name of Francis, which in Tz’utujil would run the other one.” One Five years after arriving in San unwavering desire to follow the call 7501 Northwest Expressway infancy. The Rother (pronounced translates to A’plas. It’s no co- particularly busy harvest, Dad and Antonio, Stanley flunked the first to the priesthood – and his sup- Oklahoma City, OK 73132 ROW-ther) family life centered portive bishop agreed to find him a incidence that the same values Jim cut wheat with one combine year of theology and was sent (405) 721-1810 on three things: faith, family and new school. Stanley learned growing up in an while Stanley and their pastor, Fr. home, advised to pursue a differ- (405) 721-5210 farming. Their lives were in- After a summer working to Oklahoma farming community – Fax: Edmund Von Elm, were binding ent vocation. In his journal entry, vested within a five-mile radius improve his Latin at Conception family first, hard work, kindness, E-mail: [email protected] oats at the same time. Stanley succinctly noted, “Volun- of Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Seminary in Northwest Missouri, generosity and perseverance – are Mailing Address: By all accounts, Stanley seemed tas Dei (the will of God). It’s hard, Okarche, a small farming commu- in September 1959 Stanley en- precisely the values that enabled P.O. Box 32180 to prefer manual labor to book but no emotions yet.” nity northwest of Oklahoma City. tered first theology at Mount Saint him to become a missionary shep- learning: working in the semi- When Stanley’s fifth-grade teach- Oklahoma City, OK 73123 Stanley and his siblings – Bet- Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, herd. Even his knowledge of farm- ty Mae, Jim and Tom – attended nary bindery, building a shrine to er, Sister Clarissa Tenbrink, heard Our Lady, leveling the front lawn, ing and love for Holy Trinity Catholic School from the news, she wrote Stanley a let- the land con- Visit us online at repairing equipment, and picking Over the years, the priest farmer station, used for catechesis. While first grade through high school. At ter of encouragement. “He wanted nected him in a www.soonercatholic.org pecans. If it needed doing, he did was never afraid to dig in and get he didn’t institute the project, he school, Stanley pursued a myriad to be a priest so badly. He was special way to it. If it was broken, he fixed it. his hands dirty, fixing tractors or also was a critical driving force in of interests: basketball; drama, very discouraged. So, I reminded his close-knit Looking back at Stanley’s actions Visit the archdiocesan website including a title role in “’t him of the Curé of Ars,” making Tz’utujil pa- plowing the land. He also helped establishing Tz’utujil as a written during those years, his fellow at www.archokc.org Take My Penny;” Young Christian a reference to French priest Saint rishioners, also establish the parish’s first farmers’ language, which led to a New Tes- seminarians noted, “His work was Students, and the Sodality of Our Jean-Baptiste-Marie Vianney. from a farming co-op, a school, the first hospital tament in Tz’utujil being published a way of meditation” and “I have The Sooner Catholic Lady. Physically, Stanley’s high Much like Stanley, Father Vianney community. clinic, and the first Catholic radio after his death. school transcript described him a feeling, when he was riding on (USPS 066-910) is published struggled in his academic studies as 5 feet 10 inches tall, weighing that mower he spent a lot of time biweekly except for once in July praying.” Academically, however, a lean 162 pounds, with hair and continued on page 5 by the Archdiocese of eyes of brown. Stanley struggled to stay afloat, Oklahoma City. At home, as the oldest, Stanley took the lead in farming duties, The newspaper is not responsible working alongside his father, Franz, from an early age. From his Our Lady of for unsolicited material. mother, Gertrude, Stanley inherit- Copyright © 2018 Sooner Catholic ed a devotion to our Lady and the Guadalupe Rosary, a prayer the family ob- Subscription rate: $25 per year served every night after supper. FEAST DAY for all who are not members of the During high school, Stanley only Dec. 12 Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. had one low mark, a “D” in reli- gion, in his sophomore year. He Periodical postage paid at graduated sixth in a class of 22 Oklahoma City, OK 73125. students. Everyone expected him to continue the family’s vocation POSTMASTER: Send address of farming. But, the farm boy who changes to the Sooner Catholic, had been elected president of the St. Peter in Woodward. P.O. Box 32180, Oklahoma City, Future Farmers of America his se- nior year planned a different kind OK 73123. of harvest. Stanley had such resolve in his voice as he announced his desire to become a priest that neither Franz nor Gertrude Rother ques- tioned the decision – except for his Fr. Bill Pruett (top) father’s prophetic comment, “You and Fr. Cristob- al De Loera (left) should have taken Latin!” from St. James St. James His sister, Betty Mae, a year in Oklahoma City the Greater younger than Stanley and finish- visit with stu- in Oklahoma ing her junior year in high school, dents and teach City. also stated her call to religious them about the priesthood. Once life. So, in the summer of 1953, St. Charles a month, about 20 Franz and Gertrude drove Betty to Borromeo in St. James stu- The Sooner Catholic the Adorers of the Blood of Christ Oklahoma dents have lunch is supported through the Mother House in Wichita (where City. Photos Annual Catholic Appeal. with a priest. provided. she took the name Sr. Marita), and Photos provided. Stanley to Saint John’s Seminary, 6 December 23, 2018 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic December 23, 2018 7

rchdioc es Seminole church celebrates 90th anniversary A e e h continued from page 1 Father Patrick McNamee never got to build 91. When Father Joustou left Seminole in t an actual church building in Seminole. In 1951, he was followed by Immaculate Con-

d support of their new church. 1928, he built a rectory that had a chapel open ception’s long-term and much beloved Father

n The baptism was the first recorded event for to the public, which he used for all services. Thomas Rabideau. A Wisconsin native, Father

u Immaculate Con- A church building was not constructed until Rabideau was 35 when he arrived and led Sem-

o

r ception Catholic 1938, under his successor, Father Martin inole’s Catholics for 46 years.

A Church in Semi- In addition to serving as a parish priest,

nole. Prior to that Fr. Bala stands Father Rabideau taught biology and engi-

day, Seminole’s next to a new neering drawing to high school and college statue at Catholic flock had students at Saint Gregory College in Shaw- Immaculate been tended by Conception. The nee. French mission- statue, provided In 1961, it became necessary to move aries from Sacred by anonymous Immaculate Conception because of parking Heart in Konawa. benefactors, was limitations. The old property was sold and On the Feast of placed several the location where the church now sits on The Immaculate weeks ago and State Highway 9 was purchased. Conception on dedicated by Fr. The new church was ready just in time Schwarz on Dec. Dec. 8, the con- for Easter Sunday, April 22, 1962. Father gregation celebrat- 10. Photo Sherry PreK - 6th grade students from Sts. Peter and Paul in Leech. Rabideau often referred to the noise and Kingfisher took a field trip after Mass on Nov. 29 to tour ed that beginning confusion as the pews were installed while what will be the new parish hall, chapel and meeting rooms. 90 years ago with he tried to hear confessions on Photos provided. an anniversary Holy Saturday night. Mass followed by Fr. Patrick McNamee was Two weeks later, the first a reception in the the first resident child was baptized in the new church hall on priest of Semi- church. St. Patrick in Anadarko won “Best Church Float” for Wrangler Boule- the second year in a row in the Anadarko Commu- nole’s Immacu- Father Rabideau stayed long vard. nity Christmas Parade on Dec. 1. The students sang late Conception enough to marry more than 30 “Great Day in Bethlehem” while accompanied by a The Feast of Catholic Church. of the members he had bap- An Irishman musician on guitar. Photo provided. The Immaculate tized, and then to baptize many born in Ran- Conception of the of their children. His First Blessed Virgin goon, India, and sent from Belloc Communicants numbered in St. Francis Xavier in Sulphur Mary celebrates Fr. Basil Keenan (right) served the church Abbey in France, the hundreds. celebrated the inaugural feast day that holy mo- from 1996 to 2013. He and Fr. Thomas Fr. McNamee Fr. Schwarz. Photo Sherry Leech. Father Basil Keenan, the potluck on Dec. 3 after confessions Rabideau were assisted by Dcn. E. Charles ment on which all served from and Mass. “What a joy to celebrate Collier (left). Photo provided. first native Oklahoman to lead Christianity was 1927 to 1934. this day with the parish family!” Fr. Immaculate Conception, served born and leads up Photo provided. Aaron Foshee said. Photos provided. from 1996 until 2013. Father to the most joyous Rabideau stayed on as pastor emeritus until season of Christ’s birth. Mulcahey (1934-1942). Despite the challeng- 1998 when he returned to Saint Gregory’s Ab- Janette Minihan, president of the church’s es of the Great Depression, and with much bey. He died in 1999. Altar Society, said invitations were sent to financial support from the community, includ- Father Keenan returned to Saint Gregory’s members who have moved away as well as to ing Seminole’s Protestants, a Catholic church Abbey in 2013 and died in 2017. several church dignitaries, and that the com- St. Patrick in Anadarko 2018 confirmation class. made of wood was built at the corner of Milt Since then, the Seminole church has been Photo provided. munity was also invited. There was a good Phillips (then called First Street) and Evans. served by Father Don Wolf, Father Brendon turnout, despite threats of snow and ice. Father Claude Sons served as priest for one Helbing, Father Nerio Espinoza and, most re- The Mass was concelebrated by Father Jo- year in 1942 and was followed by Father Eloi cently, by Father Joseph Schwarz and Father Youth from seph Schwarz, pastor, and Father Bala Manda- St. Patrick Joustou from 1943 to 1951. Father Joustou Bala Mandagiri. giri, associate pastor. in Anadar- was born in France in 1874 and came to Sa- In 1995, the of Saint Gregory’s imple- ko shopped Catholicism came to Seminole County, , in the 1800s, brought by French cred Heart in 1893. He served Seminole during mented a Mass in Spanish at Noon on Sundays. for toys and World War II. In 1949, he was responsible for To spruce up for their 90th anniversary, other gifts to Father Isidore Robot and Brother the church’s sign was refurbished, and the give to the Dominic Lambert, both of the Order of Saint the construction of a brick church to replace local Oklahoma Benedict. the wooden one. congregation painted the front of the church Department of The are a branch of medieval Father Joustou was the last of the French and the iconic cross that stands atop. A new Human Ser- who trace their origins to Benedict of Benedictines in Oklahoma. He died at Saint statue of Mary of the Immaculate Conception vices office for Nursia, 480-547 AD. They dedicate Gregory’s Abbey in Shawnee in 1966 at age was erected. children in the themselves to a community life cen- agency’s care. Parishioners tered around the Church and the daily donated $1,255 celebration of Mass. The Holy Face of A Faith Response to for the project. They arrived in Indian Territory in Photo Carolyn 1875 and spent the winter in Atoka, Jesus Relic and Family Violence Cantrell. which had been established as a mis- sion of Fort Smith, Ark., three years Devotion earlier. By 1877, the missionaries es- presented by Sometimes bad things happen in good families: yelling, hitting, shoving, insults, not sharing income. tablished Sacred Heart in Konawa and Donna Sue Berry and went from there to establish missions Would you like to learn about how we help those who throughout the region. Seminole was Vicki Schreiner are experiencing family violence? Mrs. Hawk the last church they founded. There will be a Holy Face of Jesus Relic present Thursday January 24 and her Seminole’s first resident priest, to venerate. This relic is verified by the Vatican. PreK3 - Father Patrick McNamee, arrived in 6:30 pm 5th grade Students at music Seminole in 1927. An Irishman born January 19th, 9 a.m. Bryce Hall Christ the King in Rangoon, India, he was sent from students at St. James Parish, OKC Included in the presentation Catholic School Sponsored by the Central Region of Catholic Women at St. Belloc Abbey in France to Sacred Heart Church teaching recently cele- This event is open to all women in the Archdiocese. Elizabeth in 1903. Survivor’s story brated the feast Ann Seton The Seminole mission’s first baptism Understand the leaving process and resources day of Christ Catholic was in a private home in May 1927 White Elephant Christmas gift silent auction How we can help? the King. Stu- School in Bring those Christmas gifts that are just not quite right for you and we will dents learned and became a regular church with the auction them off! Someone will LOVE it! Edmond of the feast day, baptism in December 1928. held the Donna Sue Berry Vicki Schreiner Sponsored by With no church available, Father Mc- Born and raised in Edmond, Okla- Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. • said special Christmas Epiphany Health Ministry homa. She attended St. John The She attended St. Monica’s church • Catholic Charities prayers, and Namee held Masses in feed stores, city Baptist parish growing up. When she and has spent the last 20 years as program • Archdiocesan Office of Family Life and participated in enrolled in her freshman year at the a Christian artist. Vicki’s family Dec. 6. hall and private homes, including the University of Central Oklahoma (at discovered their Holy Face of Jesus Marriage crafts and door age 47) her poetry deepened to truly Relic when moving her aunt into a Photos home of founding member Rose Con- express her great love for her Catholic nursing home. Since then she has For information contact Jenny Fenner 722-2110 ext. 123 decorations. provided. nelly Barrett, grandmother of current faith. In 1976 she became acquainted done extensive research on this de- Photos provided. with the Holy Face Devotion and has now written a votion out of which her ministry was created. members Pat and Martin Barrett. book “Veronica’s Veil” and the companion book. 8 December 23, 2018 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic December 23, 2018 9

continued from page 1 ulate Conception Chapter. The anniversary was marked by Mass celebrated by Archbishop Coakley Vietnamese Eucharistic Move- Archbishop Coakley helped celebrate ment of the United States of and visits by the general chaplain the 35th anniversary of the Vietnamese America (VEYM-USA). of VEYM-USA, Father Francis Eucharistic Movement Mary Immacu- Oklahoma City has two VEYM Xavier Binh Nguyen; the president late Conception Chapter on Dec. 8 at Chapters – VEYM Mary Immacu- of the national executive commit- St. Andrew Dung-Lac in Oklahoma City. late Conception Chapter and the tee, Duong Hoang; and the vice The chapter is one of the oldest in the chapter at The Cathedral of Our president of administrative affairs United States and includes about 340 Lady of Perpetual Help, with the of VEYM-USA, Bien Nguyen. children from ages 7-18. Photos Chris Porter/Sooner Catholic. name VEYM-Our Lady of Perpetu- The chapter is one of the oldest al Help Chapter. in the United States and includes VEYM Mary Immaculate Con- about 340 children from ages ception Chapter was established 7-18. Father Gregory Viet Nguyen in 1983 by Father Anthony Bao serves as chapter chaplain. Ngoc Nguyen and a handful of The Immaculate Conception young men and women who had chapter meets every Saturday once been a part of the VEYM in with Vietnamese literature and Vietnam. The chapter was estab- grammar at 12:30 p.m., cate- lished by young men and women chism class at 2 p.m. and VEYM who thirsted to help youth of the from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The Archdiocese of Oklahoma City group attends Mass together at 6 learn more and grow in spirit with p.m. Jesus Christ through the mottos Learn more about VEYM at of prayer, eucharist through com- www.veym.net. munion, sacrifice and apostolic Tram Cao is chapter president of works. the Vietnamese Youth Movement Dec. 8 marked the 35th anni- (VEYM), Mary Immaculate Concep- versary of the VEYM Mary Immac- tion Chapter in Oklahoma City.

Sacred Heart St. Mary robotics team receives grant Catholic School LAWTON – Saint Mary Catholic School ects with priority for projects related to ly recognized and ranks 213 out of 2,500 Days of Reflection launches sock recently received an education and evange- STEM education. teams nationwide. The team was the top- lization grant from The Catholic Foundation “We are very appreciative to be a recipient ranked middle school team in Oklahoma for Through the Year with Mary drive for needy of Oklahoma. of this grant,” Principal Stan Melby said. 2017-2018. Presented by Abbot Lawrence Stasyszen, O.S.B. - January 19, 2019 The grant, totaling $6,235, will be used to “These funds will allow more of our students Saint Mary is the region’s only fully-ac- The Blessed Virgin Mary is the perfect model of Christian discipleship and from the earliest centu- Oklahomans purchase additional laptops for the school’s to participate in our award-winning robotics credited Catholic school, serving grades ries, the Church has celebrated pivotal moments of her life in the story of salvation. Abbot Lawrence middle school robotics team. The grant is program.” PreK – 8th grade. Visit www.stmarys-ok.org will reflect on the major feasts and solemnities celebrated during the year to explore their message for our lives as disciples of her Son, Jesus. The middle school re- awarded for specific school or parish proj- Saint Mary’s robotics team is national- or call (580) 355-5288. ligion and social stud- Preparing for Lent ies teacher at Sacred Presented by Fr. Charles Buckley, O.S.B. - February 23, 2019 Heart Catholic School, When Lent comes around, do you haul out your usual list of practices? On this Day of Reflection, Mrs. Crofford, came we will find a way to head into Lent reflectively, discover ways to make it a time when we can move up with the idea of closer to Jesus and seek transformation, so that we will arrive at Easter ready to celebrate new life, our new life. “Socktober” as a way to promote service among Opening the Eyes of the Heart students. This past Utilizing art and photography as contemplative prayer practices year, students collect- Presented by Madeline Rugh, Ph.D. and Theresa Bragg, Ph.D. - March 23, 2019 ed about 100 pairs of Through stillness and listening for God’s voice with the ‘ear of our heart,’ we open the ‘eyes of our socks for donation to heart.’ During this quiet, we will practice the art of visio divina (sacred seeing). Through art and photography, attendees will be guided using techniques to help us see the Holy everywhere and to Sr. BJ’s Pantry in Okla- experience God in the details. homa City. This yearthe school The Invitation of Divine Mercy instituted the “Sockto- Presented by Abbot Lawrence Stasyszen, O.S.B. - April 27, 2019

ber” contest between The message of Divine Mercy revealed in visions to St. Faustina Kowalska has been one of the fastest grades and collected growing devotions in recent decades. It was championed by Pope St. John Paul II, who declared the Second Sunday of Easter to be the Feast of Divine Mercy. Abbot Lawrence will explore the message 1,200 pairs of socks. of Divine Mercy as revealed to St. Faustina, promoted by Pope St. John Paul II and Pope Francis, www.catholicfoundationOK.org The students donat- Artist’s rendering of the Bishop McGuinness baseball complex. Image and found in Sacred Scripture. ed half of the socks to provided. St. Gregory’s Abbey Sr. BJ’s Pantry and Second grade students at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School in Register Today! Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School received a $150,000 grant Call our retreat office at (405) 878-5656 or e-mail your name, 1900 W. MacArthur Street the other half to The Edmond made their First Reconciliation. Mrs. Garrett and Ms. Lieur- phone number and session requested to [email protected] Shawnee, Oklahoma 74804 from the Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation to make improvements to the www.monksok.org Center of Family Love ance prepared them for the special sacrament. All SEAS students were Cost - $30 (includes lunch) baseball field. The school plans to build a new entry plaza, stands and able to go to confession over the past two weeks. Photo provided. Space is limited to 40 participants. in Okarche. concession. Renovations are expected to be completed by March. 10 December 23, 2018 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic December 23, 2018 11 Real Life Disciples Those who love each other, speak to each other Incarnational power Prayer is a dialogue of love Back in 2003, President George world, as a human being, despite What?! We’re supposed to be- On many occasions, when I offer reflections through the Holy Scriptures and many other place to W. Bush made a surprise Thanks- great attempts by the enemy to come God?! The answer is simply on prayer, I invite my audience to raise their ways. We speak to God through our many and prayer Pedro A. Moreno, giving visit to Baghdad during the stop him. There’s obvious divine “yes,” that’s exactly what God’s Jim Beckman smartphones. Then, I let them into a little se- varied prayers, especially the celebration of the and O.P. war in Iraq. It was all the news intervention, but at a certain point plan was all along. His passionate Executive Director cret. Those who you call or text most often are Eucharist – our greatest prayer. seeking Secretariat for that year on Thanksgiving Day, it’s placed in the hands of humans desire is for us to be one with Him Secretariat for those who you The wonderful opportunity to pray is a gift in prayer Evangelization and especially since everyone expected with great peril at stake. Joseph for all eternity. Talk about a covert Evangelization and love the most. from God that is born from our covenant rela- a renewal Catechesis him to be home with his family. and Mary, fleeing Bethlehem while operation! Catechesis To love one tionship with him and that intensifies the bond of their The visit was conducted under Herod and his soldiers are mur- This plan is the DNA of disciple- Echoes another means of loving communion with God when we our spiritual incredible security. Even his wife dering all the male children under ship. The call to discipleship, for that you make hearts are totally his and not divided by sin. life. This each and every one of us, is ulti- and parents were not told in ad- age 2. Have you ever wondered of time to speak At times, prayer can be easy, but it also can is a significant and comforting sign, for from why God would come this way? mately about conforming our lives vance, and all the news channels to one another. be difficult. It is so easy a child can do it. It is this experience there is coming a real contribu- reported that he was spending the And, to entrust the safety of his to his – allowing his incarnation to vacuuming in the barn – the place This dialogue so difficult that it takes a mystic and saint to tion to the revival of prayer among the faithful, holiday with his family at their whole plan into the hands of hu- literally transform us and change was filthy! Christ of love varies explain the very depths of it. who have been helped to gain a clearer idea of home in Crawford, . But, man beings? us into him. But, this is what is so encour- in many ways, Because the dialogue of love with God can be the Holy Spirit as he who inspires in hearts a then the president just showed up, The Catechism gives us four rea- And, the most beautiful thing aging for us – Christ desires the according to what is happening at any given so difficult, the Lord sends us his Holy Spirit to profound yearning for holiness. walking out of the back kitchen in sons for this great mystery of the about the mystery of the incarna- poverty! He is drawn to our weak- moment. help us. Saint John Paul II speaks of this in his In many individuals and many communities an airplane hangar with a platter Incarnation (see paragraphs 457- tion is that it doesn’t depend on ness. He loves our inadequacies Circumstances, family situations and work encyclical on the Holy Spirit, there is a growing awareness of food to serve soldiers a meal. 460). The first three are somewhat us. It depends on him! We can’t and imperfections. It doesn’t make environment, even your own physical, mental “Dominum Et Vivificantem.” I that, even with all the rapid The soldiers were astonished as familiar: to save us and reconcile make ourselves God, we can’t sense on a human level, but it’s or emotional state, can affect your prayer life. would like to end this column progress of technological and was the rest of the world when it us to God, so that we could know make ourselves holy. It’s going to just true. If you are desiring to be During a calm, quiet and peaceful morning, by inviting you to pray the “The times in which we scientific civilization, and broke on the evening news. God’s love, and to be a model of be God who does that. We must a disciple, if you want to say “yes” before the frenzy of the day begins, we can take Lord’s Prayer and reflect on are living are bringing despite the real conquests and Imagine the enormous secrecy holiness for us. But, the fourth cooperate with his action. to the invitation of Christ to “come a moment to respond to God’s call in Psalm 46, some lines from paragraph 65 the Holy Spirit closer goals attained, man is threat- you would have to use to get the reason is a jaw-dropper. I find that But, in the end, it really does de- follow me,” this is really, really verse 11: “Be still and know that I am God!” of this encyclical. to the many who are ened, humanity is threatened. president to the other side of the most Catholics not only are not pend on him and his transforming good news. During a crisis or emergency, where there “The breath of the divine life, returning to prayer.” In the face of this danger, and world without anyone knowing, familiar with it, many have even power at work in our lives. This No matter what weaknesses or is no peace and quiet, we can cry out to God the Holy Spirit, in its simplest indeed already experiencing and into a country with which we argued with me that there’s no is one of the reasons why many human imperfections you have, he with the words of Psalm 88, verses 2 through and most common manner, the frightful reality of man’s were currently in conflict. There way we actually could believe that. spiritual writers say that the great- still wants you! And, even more, 5: “Lord, the God of my salvation, I call out by expresses itself and makes spiritual decadence, indi- were daily attacks happening on Listen to these powerful words: est pursuit of the spiritual life is the transforming power of his in- day; at night, I cry aloud in your presence. Let itself felt in prayer. It is a coalition forces, and most of the “The Word became flesh to make receptivity. If transformation and viduals and whole communities, guided as it carnation will come to bare to help my prayer come before you; incline your ear to beautiful and salutary thought that, wherever deaths were from surface to air us ‘partakers of the divine na- change depend on him, then our were by an inner sense of faith, are seeking the you change and become more and my cry. For my soul is filled with troubles; my people are praying in the world, there the Holy missiles being shot at helicopters ture:’ ‘For this is why the Word primary focus better be on getting strength to raise man up again, to save him more like him. He’s not afraid of life draws near to Sheol. I am reckoned with Spirit is, the living breath of prayer. … Prayer and airplanes. The trip was clearly became man, and the Son of God as much as we can of what he is those who go down to the pit; I am like a war- also is the revelation of that abyss that is the from himself, from his own errors and mistakes anything in us or about us. not without peril. The whole event became the Son of man: so that offering! rior without strength.” heart of man: a depth that comes from God that often make harmful his very conquests. Let the full force of this hit you went down in history as one of the man, by entering communion with The other beautiful reality is Our loving dialogue with God will vary in and that only God can fill, precisely with the And, thus, they are discovering prayer, in this Christmas. Take time to let greatest covert operations ever, the Word and thus receiving divine the poverty of circumstances into intensity, emotion, urgency and in many other Holy Spirit. which the ‘Spirit who helps us in our weak- the Lord enter into all your hu- and perfectly executed. sonship, might become a son of which the savior was born. A help- ways. This is normal in all relationships; the Our difficult age has a special need of prayer. ness’ manifests himself. In this way, the times I would argue, though, that it God.’ ‘For the Son of God became less infant, born in a barn, laid manness, and even poverty. Let tone and content of our conversations will vary, … recent years have been seeing a growth in in which we are living are bringing the Holy may not be the greatest covert op- man so that we might become to rest in a dirty feeding trough your heart be the stable, and but the great thing is that we are talking to one the number of people who, in ever more wide- Spirit closer to the many who are returning to eration. What we are about to cel- God.’ ‘The only-begotten Son of (the word manger makes it sound the very center of your heart the another. God speaks to us in our hearts and spread movements and groups, are giving first prayer.” ebrate in just a couple days with God, wanting to make us sharers a little too nice I think for what it manger. Rest there and allow the Christmas would get my vote. in his divinity, assumed our na- really was). I grew up on the farm powerful love of the incarnate word Think of the immense coordina- ture, so that he, made man, might and know how dirty a barn can to come more alive for you! tion to get the son of God into the make men gods.’” (CCC, #460) be. There’s no regular dusting and Merry Christmas! Holy Family Harvest Bazaar Lawton From the Archives … A photo series from George Rigazzi, archdiocesan archivist

onsignor Renier Sevens “Why We’re Catholic:” An argument for the faith came to Oklahoma from MBelgium as a deacon in By J.E. Helm truth and subjective truth, and people.” Horn cites Luke 24:36-41 short stories of brave Catholics 1895 at the behest of Bishop The- The Sooner Catholic concludes by saying, “It is con- and 1 Corinthians 15:5-6, verses like Father Thomas Byles, the ophile Meerschaert. He was ordained tradictory to say it is true there is that “confirm that groups of Jesus’ chaplain on the Titanic, Saint a priest in Muskogee on March 2, When it comes to faith and re- no truth.” Then, he settles down disciples claimed to see him after Damien of Molokai and Korean 1896. ligion, there are devotional books on “Why We Believe in Science,” his death.” War chaplain, Father Emil Ka- He is pictured here while pastor of that appeal to our emotions, and which allows him to move into the In “Why We Aren’t Bible-On- paun. Ponca City (1900-1912) with his new there are scholarly books that idea of a creator. Here, he offers ly Christians,” he looks at Sola Trent looks at all sorts of top- Interstate automobile. It was one of present profound truths. There a classic “first cause” argument. Scriptura, the Protestant ics that are tied to our Knights of Columbus the first in Ponca City, and then Fa- ther Sevens was rightly proud of the seems to be some type of book to Firstly, “Whatever begins to ex- notion that “all Chris- Catholic faith. He writes Auxiliary members, technological marvel. answer ist has a cause for its existence.” tian teaching, doctrine, about Purgatory, pray- Leilami Cachero and Jiulia Montoya, sell His experience with the car was not any Two, “The universe began to exist.” should come from the ing to the saints, and their handmade jewel- completely pleasant, however. Col. ques- Three, “Therefore, the universe has Bible alone,” as Trent Mary. He does not avoid Rhea Qtsinver and Tere- tions a cause for its existence.” explains it. Very simply, ry during the annual Zack Miller of the famed 101 Ranch sensitive questions like Holy Family Harvest sa Lubrano of the Holy that a This kind of logical development he points out that “The recalled that Father Sevens, while “Why We Protect Life” Bazaar held Nov. 10 in Family Ladies Guild share believer is found throughout the book. It first Christians didn’t warm smiles with visitors. driving to Newkirk, frightened a team Monsignor Renier Sevens and “Why We Believe in Lawton. might would be very difficult for anyone learn their faith from of horses pulling a wagon. The team Spite of Scandal.” have. “Why We’re Catholic: Our to refute his reasoning, and this the Bible because none ran away and one of the horses was killed in the ensuing chaos. The farmer-owner sued Catholics who are sure Reasons for Faith, Hope, and Love” makes his arguments very persua- of the books of the New for $100 in damages. The experience so soured Father Sevens on the automobile that he of their faith could en- by Trent Horn is first and foremost sive and convincing. Testament had been held a raffle to dispose of it. joy reading this book to an argument for the Catholic faith. From postulates about God, written yet.” This unhappy incident did not taint a life of service to the Church. Monsignor Sevens The title of every chapter begins Horn moves into looking at Jesus. Trent’s scholarship confirm what they already opened the parish school in Ponca City, built Saint Francis Xavier in Enid and con- with “Why We” and ends with one In “Why We Believe in the Resur- is seen in his use of the writings hold true and to expand their structed Marquette school at Christ the King in Tulsa. From 1924-1928, he was Vicar of the many topics Horn presents: rection,” he debunks the idea that of the Church fathers in sup- knowledge on various topics. for Missions in charge of funding priests working in communities too poor to support “Why We Believe in the Trinity” people who saw Christ after his port of his explanations. He gives Those who need a little convincing, them. and “Why We Baptize Babies.” death and burial were hallucinat- us Clement, the fourth pope, to will find this book an enlightening His generosity was legendary. At the time of his death in 1934 a small In each chapter, all through the ing. explain “the reality of apostolic God-send. amount of cash was found in his belongings. It was soon ascertained that he book, Horn’s approach is pure log- He points to psychologist Gary succession.” He includes Saint “Why We’re Catholic” will leave would request funds from friends to pay for school lunches for the poorer ic and at the same time is Scrip- Collins who wrote that “by their Augustine “on being Catholic” and all its readers feeling deeply satis- children at Marquette. He doled out these funds when necessary during fied to be members of this authen- the hard times of the Great Depression. ture-based. very nature, only one person can Saint John Paul II “On Mutual Holy Family Knights of Columbus members, Mark He starts from square one with see a given hallucination at a time. Sexual Joy.” tic and beautiful Catholic Church. Lopez, Gary Evans and Dale Stringer, provided the “Why We Believe in Truth,” dis- They certainly aren’t something The book avoids being overly J.E. Helm is a freelance writer for fish fry. Photos Jolene Schonchin/Sooner Catholic. ARCHDIOCESE OF OKLAHOMA CITY ARCHIVES tinguishing between objective that can be seen by a group of philosophical by including many the Sooner Catholic. 12 December 23, 2018 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic December 23, 2018 13

Lánzate a lo más Profundo Luke 5:4 Los que se aman, se hablan ¡Venid y adoremos! La oración es un diálogo de amor En muchas ocasiones, cuando ofrezco reflex- corazones por medio de las Sagradas Escritu- también En uno de nuestros más queridos ración ante el misterio que celebramos: celebra en la iones sobre la oración, invito a mi audiencia a ras y muchas otras formas. Hablamos con Dios el número villancicos de Navidad, cantamos el la palabra se ha hecho carne. Dios se Misa el Miste- levantar sus teléfonos inteligentes. Entonces, a través de nuestras numerosas y variadas de perso- Pedro A. Moreno, oraciones, especialmente la celebración de la nas que, O.P. gozoso estribillo: “Venid y adoremos”. ha convertido en un hombre nacido de rio Pascual. Él les dejo saber en un pequeño secreto. Aquellos a quienes llamas, o le envías mensajes de tex- Eucaristía, nuestra oración más grande. en mov- Secretariado de la Virgen María. Su nombre es Jesús. Él continúa ali- La Navidad invita a todos los fieles a un to, más a menudo son aquellos a quienes amas La maravillosa oportunidad de orar es un don imientos Evangelización y renovado espíritu de adoración y admi- ha nacido para nosotros y para nuestra mentándonos más. Amarse los unos a los otros significa que de Dios que nace de nuestra relación fundamen- o grupos Catequesis salvación en el silencio y la pobreza del en la Sagrada sacas tiempo para hablar unos con otros. tada en la Alianza Divina que vivimos con Él y cada vez establo en Belén. Dios está con no- Comunión Este diálogo que intensifica el vínculo de amor y comunión más ex- de amor varía con Dios cuando nuestros corazones son total- tendidos, sotros. y habitando Arzobispo Pablo S. Coakley La humildad de Dios mostrada tan entre nosotros de muchas mente suyos y no están divididos por el pecado. dan la primacía a la oración y en ella buscan Ecos maneras, de A veces, la oración puede ser fácil, pero tam- la renovación de la vida espiritual. Este es un conmovedoramente en el pesebre evoca verdaderamente presente. en el Santísi- acuerdo con lo bién puede ser difícil. Es tan fácil que un niño síntoma significativo y consolador, ya que esta asombro y hace que nuestros corazones mo Sacramento. de que está suce- puede hacerlo. Es tan difícil que hace falta un experiencia ha favorecido realmente la reno- inquietos se silencien ante un regalo tan Belén es nuestra primera escuela de diendo en un místico y un santo para explicar sus profundi- vación de la oración entre los fieles que han grande e inesperado. El Catecismo de la fe. La escuela de Belén nos invita a CristO momento dado. dades. sido ayudados a considerar mejor el Espíritu Iglesia Católica enseña: “Pastor o mago, aprender la lección de adoración y hu- Las circun- Debido a que el diálogo del amor con Dios Santo, que suscita en los corazones un profun- stancias, las puede ser tan difícil, el Señor nos envía su Es- do anhelo de santidad. nadie puede alcanzar a Dios aquí abajo mildad. Comienza en el pesebre donde situaciones familiares y el entorno laboral, píritu Santo para ayudarnos. San Juan Pablo II En muchos individuos y en muchas comu- sino arrodillándose ante el pesebre de María es nuestra maestra. Al reflexionar incluso su propio estado físico, mental o emo- habla de esto en su encíclica sobre el Espíritu nidades madura la conciencia de que, a pesar Belén y adorando a Dios escondido en la con ella sobre el misterio de la palabra cional, pueden afectar su vida de oración. Santo, “Dominum et Vivificantem”. Quisiera del vertiginoso progreso de la civilización debilidad de un niño.” (CCC 563). hecha carne, encontramos que nues- Durante una mañana tranquila, tranquila y terminar esta columna invitándolos a rezar la técnico-científica y no obstante las conquistas En los hermosos relatos del Evangelio tra hambre por la Eucaristía y nuestro pacífica, antes de que comience el frenesí del oración que el mismo Señor nos dejó, el Padre reales y las metas alcanzadas, el hombre y la de la época navideña, los ángeles anun- deseo de encontrar y adorar a Jesús se día, podemos hacer una pausa y tomarnos un Nuestro, y reflexionar sobre algunas líneas del humanidad están amenazados. Frente a este momento para responder a la llamada de Dios párrafo 65 de esta encíclica. peligro, y habiendo ya experimen- cian el nacimiento de Jesús a los pas- profundiza. en el Salmo 46, versículo 11: “Paren y reconoz- “El soplo de la vida divi- tado antes la espantosa realidad tores en sus campos como noticias de A medida que nos acercamos más a can que soy Dios” na, el Espíritu Santo, en su “Los tiempos en que de la decadencia espiritual del gran alegría. Los pastores, a su vez, glo- la amistad con Jesús a través de los Durante una crisis o emergencia, donde no manera más simple y común, vivimos acercan hombre, personas y comunidades rifican y alaban a Dios por todo lo que momentos de adoración y nuestra par- hay paz y tranquilidad, podemos clamar a Dios se manifiesta y se hace sentir al Espíritu Santo enteras, como guiados por un tienen el privilegio de ver y escuchar. La ticipación regular en la Eucaristía, con las palabras del Salmo 88, versículos 2 en la oración. Es hermoso muchas personas sentido interior de la fe, buscan la al 5: “Que hasta ti llegue mi oración, presta y saludable pensar que, en fuerza que sea capaz de levantar que vuelven a la estrella guía a los tres hombres sabios nuestras vidas se vuelven cada vez más atención a mi clamor. Pues de pruebas mi alma cualquier lugar del mundo al hombre, salvarlo de sí mismo, que traen sus regalos desde lejos y rin- eucarísticas. Nuestro encuentro con la está saturada y mi vida está al borde del abis- donde se ora, allí está el Es- oración.” de su propios errores y desori- den homenaje al Rey recién nacido. José misericordia de Dios nos llena a rebosar mo. Me cuentan entre los que bajan a la fosa, píritu Santo, soplo vital de la entaciones, que con frecuencia está misterioso y poderosamente silen- de alegría y gratitud. Descubrimos que soy un hombre acabado.” oración… La oración es tam- convierten en nocivas sus propias cioso mientras se somete a sí mismo en lo que hemos recibido como regalo debe- Nuestro amoroso diálogo con Dios variará en bién la revelación de aquel conquistas. Y de esta manera de- humilde obediencia al plan de Dios. Y, mos darlo como regalo. Nos convertimos intensidad, emoción, urgencia y en muchas abismo que es el corazón del hombre: una pro- scubren la oración, en la que se manifiesta ‘el otras formas. Esto es normal en todas las rela- fundidad que es de Dios y que sólo Dios puede Espíritu que viene en ayuda de nuestra flaque- María reflexiona todas estas cosas en su en discípulos misioneros de la miseri- ciones; El tono y el contenido de nuestras con- colmar, precisamente con el Espíritu Santo. za’. De este modo, los tiempos en que vivimos corazón. El misterio de Belén nos invita cordia para los demás. versaciones variarán, pero lo mejor es que nos Nuestra difícil época tiene especial necesidad acercan al Espíritu Santo muchas personas a la adoración. Todos estos misterios convergen her- estamos hablando. Dios nos habla en nuestros de la oración… en estos años va aumentando que vuelven a la oración.” Es significativo que Belén, el lugar del mosamente en la Liturgia Eucarística, nacimiento de Jesús, significa “casa la Misa, que es la fuente y la cumbre de de pan”. Jesús viene a nutrir al mun- nuestras vidas. do entregándose a sí mismo por la vida Al celebrar el nacimiento de Cristo en del mundo. Años más tarde, él procla- esta época Navideña, tenga la seguridad ma: “YO SOY el pan de la vida”. Jesús de mis oraciones por usted y sus seres continúa entregándose por nosotros y queridos durante todo el Año Nuevo. por nuestra salvación cada vez que se ¡Dios está con nosotros!

a Cobertura adicional de noticias y eventos de la Iglesia y la arquidiócesis, solo en www.soonercatholic.org.

a Para enviar fotos, infor- mación sobre eventos o ideas de historias que pueden ser La Sagrada publicadas, envíe un correo Familia se ve electrónico a [email protected]. en un pesebre hecho de arena Escritor(a) Independiente en la Plaza de Bilingüe San Pedro en el Vaticano el 10 El periódico arquidiocesano de diciembre. Sooner Catholic está buscan- CNS foto/Paul do un escritor(a) indepen- Haring. diente bilingüe que hable y escriba con fluidez tanto en inglés como en español. El escritor(a) contribuirá con ¡El Arzobispo Coakley ha bendecido esta tarde la nueva emisora KRGU artículos y fotos sobre even- 97.7 - Radio Guadalupe, del grupo Radio Católica de Oklahoma! Esta tos y parroquias en toda la emisora transmite programación católica en español desde la parroquia arquidiócesis. Se prefiere a de St. Paul the Apostle en Del City. Junto a él estaba el Padre Irwin, el una persona con experiencia Padre Sundar y personal y miembros de la junta de Radio Católica de periodística. Comuníquese con Oklahoma. Fotos Cara Koenig/Sooner Catholic. Diane Clay al (405) 721-1810 o [email protected]. 14 December 23, 2018 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic December 23, 2018 15 Calendar Briefs This calendar only covers the two weeks between issue dates and may not reflect all of the calendar items. To see a full calendar, go to www.soonercatholic.org. Rother Heritage Gallery Elephant Christmas gift silent 31 The Heritage Gallery at the Cath- auction fundraiser to auction a December New Year’s Eve. Greater OKC meeting, 2 p.m. the second Thursday of each olic Pastoral Center, 7501 North- Christmas gift that was not quite - 4 p.m., St. Anthony Hospital, month September - May in west Expressway, presents “The right. Sponsored by the Central 21 CPC offices close at 3 p.m. January 1000 N. Lee. Contact (316) the patio room at the Church 558-0422, [email protected]. of the Epiphany of the Lord, Shepherd Cannot Run: A Retro- Region Counsel of Catholic Wom- until Jan. 2. 1 New Year’s Day. 7336 Britton Rd., OKC. spective on the Life of Bl. Stanley en. All women of the archdiocese Meeting of the Third Order Lunch at 11: 30 a.m. followed Rother.” The free exhibit is open are invited to attend. 23 Fourth Sunday of Advent. 6 Surviving Divorce program, (Lay) Dominicans, 3 p.m. - 5 by short program. Contact 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday-Fri- I was drawn to her story. 3 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., St. p.m., St. Monica, Edmond (St. Sharon Fernbaugh at (405) day. Special tours arranged by Day of Reflection Are you listening? Katie was sincere and whole- 23 Pray the Rosary for Life, 6:30 Mark in Norman. Contact Ambrose Building) Rm. 105. 721-2183. calling (405) 721-5651, Ext. 141. St. Gregory’s Abbey will host a hearted. She didn’t dabble in p.m., St. Thomas More chap- By Sally Crowe Nash Ferrella March at (405) 314- For lay Catholics drawn to re- Day of Reflection, “Through the one tradition and then another. el, 100 Stinson St., Norman. 3757, OKdivorceministry@ ligious life. Call John or Mary 10 St. Ann’s Ministry for preg- Holy Innocents’ Chapel Year with Mary,” 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. I have been binge-listening. She spent years in commitment Contact Connie Lang at (405) gmail.com. McClernon at (405) 313-6611, nancy and infant loss, 6:30 perpetual adoration Jan. 19 at the abbey in Shaw- On my way home from the gym, to each tradition. She honestly 249-1041, potato.lang@gmail. (405) 414-9407. p.m. - 8 p.m., St. John Holy Innocents’ Foundation is nee. Abbot Lawrence Stasyszen, recently, I absently turned on assessed her pursuits of truth com. 3 Charismatic Catholic prayer Raphael House, Edmond. seeking more adorers for the Holy O.S.B., will present. Cost is $30 the radio and heard a portion and recognized that she did not meeting, 7 p.m., Catholic Pas- “Marriage Mondays” 7 p.m. Contact, parishnurse@ Innocents’ Chapel. Contact Toni and includes lunch. Registration of “The Journey Home,” an have a deeper relationship with 23 Monthly Novena to the In- 7 toral Center. Contact Elaine - 9 p.m. in Marian Hall, St. stjohn-catholic.org, (405) Harrelson at adoration.holyinno- is limited to 40 participants. Call EWTN program from The Com- God. She did not “settle” for a fant Jesus. Nine days of at (405) 358-3610, John Nepomuk, Yukon. 340-0691, Ext. 197. [email protected] or (405) 341- (405) 878-5656 or e-mail retreats@ ing Home Network, Interna- faith that was primarily social novenas to the Infant Jesus [email protected]. 2199. monksok to register. tional hosted by Marcus Grodi. interaction. of Prague. During the nine 8 Catholic War Veterans (of any 12 The Red Plains Benedictine Guests on this program recount Her story made me curious days, the novena prayers will 4 First Friday Sacred Heart war/conflict) meeting, 7 p.m., Oblates of Mt. St. Scholas- their “journeys” to the Catholic about other guests on “The be: Monday-Friday following CPC daily Mass Faith response to family Mass at the Catholic Pasto- St. Ann Retirement Center tica, Noon - 2:30 p.m., Rm. violence faith from a variety of Christian Journey Home.” I found past Noon Mass, Saturday follow- Daily Mass is held weekdays ral Center. Exposition of the community room. Contact Fr. A/B, St. Charles Borromeo, traditions, Judaism, Islam or no episodes on YouTube: Nancy ing 5 p.m. Mass, and Sunday at 11:30 a.m. in the St. Francis Learn how to help people experi- Blessed Sacrament 5:30 p.m.; M. Price Oswalt at (405) 567- 5024 N. Grove Ave., OKC religious background. Marcus is McCall who began to question following 11 a.m. Mass. de Sales Chapel at the Catholic encing family violence during a pre- reconciliation prior to 7 p.m. 3404. Contact (405) 635-5665, a convert. His conversion story in seminary whether the Refor- Pastoral Center, 7501 Northwest sentation at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 24 in Mass. Call (405) 721-8944, [email protected]. is posted on the website, chnet- mation had thrown out more of Expressway. No Mass on days CPC Byrce Hall at Church of the Epiph- 24 Christmas Eve. (405) 528-6252. Catholic War Veterans USA work.org. the faith than it had intended; 9 is closed. any of the Lord, 7336 W. Britton the Oklahoma His story was inspiring and Rosalind Moss who was Jewish Rd., OKC. Contact Jenny Fenner at 25 Solemnity of the Nativity of 5 The Lay Missionaries of Char- Memorial Post instructive; just as his guest and became Mother Miriam, ESL Level I and advanced (405) 722-2110, Ext. 123. the Lord, Christmas Day. ity, the Secular (Lay) Order of No. 168 will meet was the night I tuned in. Her founding the Catholic religious A 16-week English Second St. Teresa of Calcutta, meet- at 7 p.m., Sun- name was Katie Wing. She was order, Daughters of Mary. There Language session will begin in Celebrating Catholic Education 26 Feast of St. Stephen, Martyr. ing at St. Ann Nursing Home, nylane Family accomplished and articulate were more than I can detail January and follow the St. Eugene Breakfast OKC. Mass 9:30 a.m.; meeting Reception Center, with master’s degrees in com- here, but they all were seeking school calendar. Childcare is avail- Save the Date! The 2019 Cele- 27 Feast of St. John, Apostle and following. Contact Toni Har- 3900 S.E. 29, munity health and counseling. truth and were often astonished able on Tuesday and Thursday brating Catholic Education Break- Evangelist. relson at (405) 341-2199. Del City. Contact She was not a convert but a and dismayed to find them- evenings, Level I classes. Registra- fast will be at 7 a.m. Jan. 29 at (405) 739-0036, “revert.” She had been raised selves in the Catholic Church, tion deadline Jan. 4. Space limit- The Petroleum Club in the John 28 Feast of the Holy Innocents. 6 Faith and Allegiance Initiative OklaPost168@ Catholic, left the Church, seek- praying to God because their ed. Contact Patty Yardley at (405) Nichols Room. Register at www. after all Masses at St. Eugene cox.net. ing truth and a relationship faith traditions had taught 751-7115, Ext. 172, or pyardley@ archokc.org/breakfast. 29 Feast of St. Thomas Becket. in Ross Hall, OKC. with God. them misconceptions about steguenes.org. The Catholic Now, more than 20 years Catholicism. Most gratifying for Rose Day 30 Feast of the Holy Family of 6 St. Francis of Assisi Secu- Women’s Activ- later, she had returned. Her me was their appreciation and 10 Faith and Allegiance Initiative The 28th annual pro-life rally Jesus, Mary and Joseph. lar Franciscan Fraternity of ity Club meets On Jan. 6, representatives from will be at 11:30 a.m. Feb. 6 at the search took her from Eastern reverence for the Eucharist. Catholic Charities, Heartline 2-1-1, Oklahoma State Capitol. Pro-life religions and meditation to the “The Journey Home” airs St. Eugene Small Communities advocate Jen Bricker will be the evangelical Protestant world to on Oklahoma Catholic Radio of Faith, Habitat for Humanity speaker. Advocates will begin Messianic Judaism, and even- on Mondays from 7 p.m. to 8 and the Oklahoma Department of handing out roses at 9:30 a.m. tually, to a discovery of the p.m. For night owls there is an Veterans Affairs will be available for treasures of the Catholic faith encore broadcast on Sundays she had left. Katie’s under- current and former service mem- Together in Holiness Conference at Midnight. If you are like me, KOFC.ORG/JOINUS standing moved beyond faith bers and their families after all The Together in Holiness Mar- appreciation for these stories join us online today as “something you did” to a Masses at St. Eugene in Ross Hall. riage Conference will be held comes to mind with the words relationship with Jesus Christ. of Saint Paul in Romans 11:33, Join us They will coordinate teams for ser- 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Feb. 9 at the “Really, it was the Holy Spirit. I “Oh the depth of the riches of Contact me today vice projects, offer a way to connect Church of St. Benedict in Broken kept hearing ‘Consider my son the wisdom and knowledge of with others who have served, and Arrow. Childcare available for $5 through e memebrship Get connected Jesus.’” God!” to learn more: be a resource for former service per child. Bishop Konderla will - members. Contact Patty Dearden speak along with Roland Millare To The Largest at [email protected]. and Patty Schneier. Register at Catholic https://forlifeandfamily.org/ Jobs Box Sanctity of Life Mass events/th19-tok/. Brotherhood The Sanctity of Life Mass is a Bilingual freelance writer at [email protected]. celebration of life from concep- Women’s conference The Sooner Catholic archdioce- tion to natural death. Archbishop The Oklahoma Catholic Wom- san newspaper is seeking a bilin- Parish secretary - Norman Coakley will preside at the Mass en’s Conference will be Feb. 23 at gual freelance writer who fluently St. Joseph in Norman is seeking at 6 p.m. Jan. 16 at The Cathedral Embassy Suites in Norman. Visit speaks and writes in English and a parish secretary and adminis- of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in www.ocwconference.com. Spanish. The writer will contribute trative assistant. The job includes Oklahoma City. articles and photos about events reception of guests, answering and Day of Reflection and parishes throughout the arch- directing phone calls, preparing The Holy Face of Jesus relic and St. Gregory’s Abbey will host a diocese. Journalism background written correspondence for the devotion Day of Reflection, “Preparing for preferred. Contact Diane Clay at pastor and other office staff, main- A presentation on the Holy Face Lent,” 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Feb. 23 at (405) 721-1810 or dclay@archokc. taining the parish data system, Kevin Pierce of Jesus Relic and Devotion will the abbey in Shawnee. Fr. Charles org. scheduling of facility, maintaining be 9 a.m. Jan 19 at St. James in Buckley, O.S.B., will present. Cost sacramental records, bulletin edit- General Agent Oklahoma City. A Holy Face of Je- is $30 and includes lunch. Space HS maintenance/custodian - OKC ing, coordination of hospitality vol- 877-707-0752 sus relic will be present for vener- limited. Contact (405) 878-5656 or Bishop McGuinness Catholic unteers, mail sorting, assistance ation. The relic has been touched retreats@monksok. High School is seeking a full-time with weekly Mass contributions [email protected] to Veronica’s Veil, the True Wood maintenance/custodian staff processing and management of of the Cross and the spear that Lenten Mission member who is willing to work office supplies and equipment. Bi- pierced Christ’s side. These facts St. Eugene presents “Create in Tuesday through Friday 8 a.m. - lingual in Spanish preferred. Send are verified by the Papal Seal and Me a Clean Heart Lenten Mission” 5:30 p.m., and Saturday from 8 resume to Deacon Randy Hearn at a certificate signed by Saint Pius with Val Limar Jansen at 7 p.m. a.m. - Noon. Duties include clean- [email protected]. ing inside and outside of facilities, X. Books available to purchase, Feb. 24-26 at 2400 W. Hefner Rd., L I F E I N S U R A N C E D I S A B I L I T Y I N C O M E I N S U R A N C E L O N G - T E R M C A R E I N S U R A N C E R E T I R E M E N T A N N U I T I E S and the author will be available OKC. Contact Patty Yardly or Judi some minor maintenance, and to sign. Also, there will be a White Wilkinsin at (405) 751-7115. supervision of student workers on To see more job openings, go on- Saturdays. Contact Dusty Dobbs line to www.soonercatholic.org. 16 December 23, 2018 Sooner Catholic

Annual Catholic Appeal

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