Sooner Catholic soonercatholic.org September 1, 2013 www.archokc.org Labor Day statements from Catholic leaders serve as reminder to remember “the permanent things” By Tina Korbe Dzurisin The Sooner Catholic

In advance of Labor Day Sept. 2, the Offi ce of Media Relations of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops released a statement and a series of blog posts that focus on the growing dis- parity in the income of U.S. workers. “Income inequality is rampant,” Father Clete Kiley writes in one post on the USCCB blog. Father Kiley then cites a series of supporting facts: One percent of this nation holds 35 percent of its wealth. The top 10 percent receive 45 percent of the income, while 90 percent split up the other 55 percent. In a statement dated Sept. 2, Bishop Stephen E. Blaire of Stockton, Calif., chairman of the USCCB Committee on Justice and Human Development, also suggests that income inequality is inherently problematic. “In many places, wealth and basic needs are separated by only a few blocks or subway stops,” Bishop Blaire writes. “How can it be said that per- sons honor one another when such ‘extravagance and wretchedness exist side by side?’” “The current imbalances are not inevitable,” Bishop Blaire adds. The current imbalances might not be inevitable, The Catholic concern, then, is not necessarily ex- one reason or another, are unable to provide for but, to a certain extent, income inequality as such clusively or even primarily with income inequality. themselves and “Gaudium et Spes” is very clear is inevitable – and is not, in and of itself, indica- The Catholic concern is with the plight of persons that “the livelihood and the human dignity espe- tive of an unjust society, according to past . who are poor, with their quality of life and with cially of those who are in very diffi cult conditions As Leo XIII wrote in “Rerum Novarum,” the opportunities that are or are not available for because of illness or old age must be guaranteed.” “There naturally exist among mankind manifold them to move out of poverty – a concern that Cath- Furthermore, even if the nation’s poorest are not differences of the most important kind; people dif- olic social teaching formulates as “the preferential the world’s poorest, “Most people want to live in a fer in capacity, skill, health, strength; and unequal option for the poor.” more equal society that provides opportunities for fortune is a necessary result of unequal condition.” Globally, the plight of those who are poor is very growth and development,” as Bishop Blaire writes. Yet, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI and Pope distressing indeed, and remembering the world’s To want to ensure equal opportunities for up- Francis have both been very clear: Income inequal- poorest provides a bit of perspective in relation to ward mobility is a laudable goal. ity can be indicative of injustice. the question of income inequality in the United Bishop Blaire mentions the lack of available “The dignity of the individual and the demands States. jobs, a decline in union membership, too-low of justice require, particularly today, that econom- Consider: The typical person in the bottom 5 minimum wages and wage theft, among others, as ic choices do not cause disparities in wealth to percent of the American income distribution is obstacles to upward mobility for persons who are increase in an excessive and morally unacceptable still richer than 68 percent of the world’s inhabi- poor in the United States today. manner,” Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI wrote in tants, according to The New York Times’ Catherine Challenges those might be, but, empirically “Caritas in Veritate.” Rampell. As a group, America’s poorest are about speaking, none is greater than the challenge posed To parse the language carefully, the pope emeri- as rich as India’s richest. by the collapse of the family. tus does not say increases in disparities in wealth United States Catholics at all income levels, The decline in marital rates and the rise of sin- are always morally unacceptable, but he does then, have a unique opportunity to contemplate gle parents have accounted for more than half of caution against excessive increases, which can be opportunities to donate to international charities. the rise of income inequality among children, morally unacceptable. Still, in every country, there are those who, for continued on page 10 Walk for the Poor to support the work of Society of Vincent de Paul By Anamaría Scaperlanda Biddick single parents who have a hard time getting around.” For the Sooner Catholic The event raises money in three primary ways: Business sponsorship, individual donations to and sponsorship of the The South-Central District of the Society of Saint Vincent event, and a silent auction. The silent auction will consist de Paul is gearing up for its major fundraising event of the of items donated by individuals and businesses. It will take year, the Walk for the Poor. The Walk will take place at 9 place during and after the casual walk around the beautiful, a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 29, at All ’ Catholic School in wooded property of All Saints’, while large items will be won Norman. through a raffl e. Raffl e winners need not be present to win. Vincentians from Saint Andrew’s in Moore, Our Lady of The local Walk is one of many throughout the nation host- Victory in Purcell and all three Norman parishes—Saint ed near Saint Vincent de Paul’s feast day. ’s, Saint Mark and Saint —benefi t from “The motto is ‘Walk a mile in your shoes,’” McInerney said. the event, the proceeds from which will be distributed evenly “Not everyone is as lucky as I am; a lot of times, life turns among the fi ve conferences, corresponding to the fi ve parish- against them in a way. We try to remember those people es, to fulfi ll their mission. and do as much as we can. Think when you’re walking what Mike McInerney, parishioner at Saint Mark and coordina- would be best to help those people.” tor for the Walk, explained their mission, which is “mainly to The Vincentians are active in their help for others. Last provide rent and utilities for families and individuals in need year, they helped 12,819 needy people with $265,551 in fi - on a temporary basis.” nancial aid and $27,899 in goods such as furniture, food and “If someone gets sick and can’t work, we can help,” McIn- clothing. They contributed 24,726 hours of personal time erney said. “We always do home visits, to go and talk about and were involved in disaster relief. what they mean. It separates us from other service groups: Marine Valaldez from Saint Andrew in Moore explained We go to (the) client. This is helpful for elderly, disabled and continued on page 10 2 September 1, 2013 Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic National/International September 1, 2013 3 Put Out Into the Deep Luke 5:4 Exclusively on Pro-life advocates encouraged by legislative successes the website By Zoey Di Mauro between religious liberty and the Prayers along the Catholic News Service Affordable Care Act. Movements WASHINGTON —With the recent by some states to defund Planned By Sooner Catholic Staff success of abortion-related legislation Parenthood or to prohibit late-term at the state and federal levels, is the abortions could also come before the Camino Portugues Additional coverage of Supreme Court. Editor’s Note: From Aug. 15 to Aug. 22, Archbishop Paul Aug. 23 — We arrived in end in sight for pro-life supporters? “If the 5th Circuit (Court of Ap- Coakley journeyed on foot along the Camino Portugues Santiago yesterday after- Church and archdiocesan The country watched as Democrat- peals) upholds Texas’ version of the from Barcelos, Portugal, to Santiago de Compostela, noon, the eighth day of our news and events, only on ic State Sen. Wendy Davis of Fort (20-week) law after the 9th Circuit Spain, the cathedral city of Saint James the Apostle. pilgrimage on the Camino www.soonercatholic.com: Worth fi libustered against a bill to struck down Arizona’s version, During his pilgrimage, he carried the prayers and inten- Portuges. After cleaning toughen abortion regulations, only the entry of the Supreme Court to tions of many in our archdiocese. What follows are ex- up a bit our fi rst order of For the full Labor Day to have it passed later in a second to their constitutionality. and director of the Respect Life settle the debate may be likely,” said cerpts from the archbishop’s Facebook account. business was to celebrate statement by Bishop E. special session and signed into law On July 22, a federal judge in Offi ce for the Archdiocese of Galves- Thompson, and could lead the court Aug. 15 — Day 1 on the Camino Portugues! On our way Mass in a small chapel next Archbishop Paul S. Coakley Blaire of Stockton, Calif., by Gov. Rick Perry. North Dakota judge enjoined a new ton-Houston, said laws in Texas and to revisit Roe. to Santiago de Compostela we came upon a wonderful to the tomb of the Apostle, which is referenced in the In North Carolina, Republican law to ban abortion after the detec- other states to strengthen abortion Justice Antonin Scalia in a procession in honor of the Blessed Mary on this Saint James the Greater. There I placed the many prayer cover story of this issue, visit Gov. Pat McCrory signed a law that tion of a fetal heartbeat, which could regulations are “pro-woman.” wide-ranging interview about the Solemnity of her Assumption into heaven. It was a very requests and intentions I have received on the altar in tightens regulations on the state’s 16 be as early as six weeks. In Wiscon- “This is putting in basic standards www.soonercatholic.com. court in 2012 said abortion should be long and challenging day physically but beautiful scenery the Holy Sacrifi ce of the Mass. It was such an exhilarat- abortion clinics, bans abortions based sin, a law requiring that abortion of medical practice,” she said. Colbert left to lawmakers, not judges. and weather! ing day! Today we will enjoy some of the rich culture of on the child’s gender, and expands doctors have admitting privileges said injury or death from botched In the story “Whatever Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a Aug. 16 —Day 2 on the Camino Portugues. We summit- this beautiful old city and celebrate the pilgrim Mass conscience protections for health care at a nearby hospital and that wom- abortions are not unheard of and happened to our ‘Sunday supporter of keeping abortion legal, ed the highest point on the Portuguese route to Santiago with pilgrims who have arrived or returned to Santiago. providers. It takes effect Oct. 1. en see an ultrasound before having might be avoided by more stringent best’?” on p. 5, we quote mem- commented in two interviews that de Compostela. It was a grueling climb but offered an in- Aug. 24 — We leave Santiago today. Last night we In Virginia, the busiest abortion an abortion was blocked by a judge safety regulations and oversight. bers of our ever-growing she remains hesitant about the scope credibly beautiful vista. We celebrated Mass this evening had the privilege of celebrating the Mass at the princi- clinic in the state was forced to close while a legal challenge by Planned “If we’re going to have (abortion), at and increasingly vibrant of Roe, saying it went “too far, too in a 13th century church called San Pedro de Rubiaes. I pal altar. At the end of Mass we placed incense in the because of safety regulations recently Parenthood makes its way through least we should have it in a way that Facebook community. For fast.” am blessed with great companions for this journey! Botafumeiro before it was hoisted by eight men and passed by the General Assembly. the courts. A similar law was blocked does not directly affect the physical your chance to sound off on Bonk, in Raleigh, is engaged in Aug. 17 — Day 3 of the Camino Portugues leads us swung through the air as a dramatic sign of the prayers “With the single exception of Or- in Alabama July 23. health of the mother.” this issue and others to be both activism and outreach to those along ancient Roman roads (Via XIX) and through beau- of so many pilgrims rising to heaven. On this our fi nal egon, every state has enacted some Though the Supreme Court’s deci- “Why someone would oppose leg- addressed in future issues of affected by abortion. “This battle tiful countryside. We frequently pass markers directing morning we celebrated Mass at the tomb of Saint James restriction on abortion,” said Chris sion in Casey v. Planned Parenthood islation that actually gives women is not going to be overcome with pilgrims to Santiago (yellow arrow) and others to Fatima whose relics are contained in a beautiful silver sarcopha- the “Sooner Catholic,” LIKE Thompson, a lawyer with Alliance permitted reasonable limitations on more information to make a very assault and hammers but with love (blue arrow). We will enter Spain later today. gus. Blessed be in His angels and His saints! Praised the “Archdiocese of Oklahoma Defending Freedom, a Christian abortions, supporters of legal abor- diffi cult decision and improves safety and compassion. We really have to Aug. 18 — Day 4 on the Camino Portugues was a long be Jesus Christ! City” on Facebook. In addi- legal organization based in Arizona tion say the recent legislation over- standards” is confusing, said Jackie suffer and walk with our brothers day! We had crossed into Spain at Tuy the tion to community conversa- focused on religious freedom, same- steps Casey’s boundaries. Bonk, director of the pro-life offi ce for and sisters,” she said. day before. Instead of gentle walks through tions, the page features daily sex marriage and pro-life issues. But according to recent polling, a the Diocese of Raleigh, N.C. “I just “We’re called to live our faith in the beautiful countryside we walked on too much refl ections on the lives of the This summer on Capitol Hill, the majority of Americans support some don’t see how anybody can object to public square and to bring Christ’s pavement yesterday and my feet are feel- saints, the daily Mass read- House passed the Pain Capable restrictions on abortion, especially that.” love and mercy and healing to one ing it. We walked more than 10 hours and ings, tweets from Pope Fran- Unborn Protection Act to prohibit late-term abortion. Fifty-nine percent While they are disappointed by another,” she added. covered more than 20 miles. Today will be an cis and more! abortion nationwide after 20 weeks of Americans said they would sup- legal challenges, supporters of the “It is terrible suffering that results easy walk, God willing. There are always sur- of gestation, approximately the stage port a federal law banning abortion bills say they hope they end up at the at which scientists say unborn babies after 20 weeks of pregnancy, accord- Supreme Court, where perhaps the from this,” said Colbert, who also prises along the way! And many blessings. Admissions are capable of feeling pain. Support- works in the post-abortive healing Aug. 19 — Day 5 on the Camino Portu- ing to results of a HuffPost/YouGov justices will reconsider Roe v. Wade, ers called it “the most important pro- ministry in her diocese. “We have to gues led us along ancient Roman roads poll released in July. But the poll the 1973 decision that legalized abor- In the Aug. 18 issue of the life bill to be considered in the last start living personal lives in relation- and a beautiful coastal inlet. We arrived in also shows many Americans remain tion on demand in the U.S. “Sooner Catholic,” a story 10 years.” It is unlikely to be passed ship (to achieve) a real conversion of Pontevedra, a beautiful city in Galicia fi lled confl icted in their views. Challenges could come from differ- about Focus missionary by the Senate, but supporters still heart.” with magnifi cent medieval architecture and A study released Aug. 15 by the ent types of litigation — including Nathan Deal appeared under claimed the House vote as a victory. challenges to the federal requirement Said Thompson, “There is reason a vibrant city life. Unfortunately there is a Pew Research Center’s Religion & the headline “First Focus Despite pro-life successes in state Public Life Project showed 49 per- that employers, regardless of their for optimism both on the way the summer carnival behind our albergue and missionary from archdiocese legislatures, judges have blocked en- cent of Americans consider it morally moral views, provide contraceptive court will rule, and the likelihood it sounds like it will be going strong till the will serve in Texas.” Nathan forcement of some of the laws pend- wrong to have an abortion. coverage for their employees. Thomp- that the right cases will come before wee hours of the morning! An early morning Deal is actually the second ing the outcome of court challenges Dr. Marcella Colbert, a physician son said there’s an important clash it.” start (predawn) will get us to our destination in Caldas de Reis before the heat of the day. Focus missionary from the Aug. 20 —Another predawn start on Day 6 Archdiocese of Oklahoma Recognizing sin, accepting mercy Pope denounces ‘multiplication of our Camino brought us to Caldas de Reis City. Ana Brzozowski from by 12:30 p.m. thus avoiding the heat of the Above: Archbishop Coakley in black, with Bishop James Sean Wall and Fr. Bill Saint Teresa’s in Harrah was is key to salvation, pope says of massacres,’ atrocities in Syria afternoon! It is supposed to reach the low 90s Dickinson at Pontecesures. Below: Archbishop Coakley, left, at Caldas de Reis. actually the fi rst. We regret By Cindy Wooden reading, Luke 13:22-30, the pope said By Cindy Wooden prayer and solidarity with all the here today. It was a beautiful stage through the error. Catholic News Service the narrow gate that is Jesus is not Catholic News Service victims of this confl ict (and) all vineyards and rolling hills of the Galician VATICAN CITY — Jesus told his the entrance to “a torture chamber.” VATICAN CITY — those who are suffering, especially countryside. We have two more days before arriving at Let us know how we’re But Jesus asks “us to open our called again for an end to the fi ght- the children, and ask them to keep Santiago de Compostela and the tomb of Saint James doing! Send story ideas and disciples that the entrance to heaven is like a “narrow gate,” not because hearts to him, to recognize ourselves ing in Syria, denouncing the “mul- their hopes for peace alive,” the within the magnifi cent cathedral of that ancient city. I other feedback to tips@ar- God has made salvation so diffi cult, as sinners, in need of his salvation, tiplication of massacres and atro- pope said. am carrying the prayers and intentions of many with me. chokc.org. his forgiveness, his love, needing the but because people fi nd it diffi cult to cious acts,” including the suspected He asked the international com- Santiago, pray for us! humility to accept his mercy and to recognize their sinfulness and accept chemical weapons attack that left munity to pay more attention to Aug. 21 — The fi rst several days of our Camino we Plus, don’t miss daily be renewed by him.” the confl ict in Syria and help the God’s mercy, Pope Francis said. hundreds dead. walked pretty much alone. That began to change a couple updates on Facebook and Being a Christian does take some nation’s people “fi nd a solution to Jesus is “the gateway to salvation,” As U.N. weapons inspectors re- of days ago! Now within 16 miles of Santiago de Com- Twitter! effort, he said. It is “not having a ‘la- ceived permission from the Syrian this war that is sowing destruction the pope said Aug. 26 before reciting postela we have the experience of being part of a grand bel,’” but living and witnessing to the government Aug. 25 to visit the site and death.” the Angelus with visitors in St. Pe- pilgrimage joining hundreds of pilgrims on their way faith “in prayer, in works of charity, of the alleged attack, Pope Francis Archbishop Mario Zenari, the ter’s Square. “The gate that is Jesus to Santiago and the tomb of Saint James the Apostle. in promoting justice, in doing good. said the “terrible images” of the Vatican nuncio to Syria, told Vati- is never closed; this gate is never Countless thousands have walked these same paths for For the narrow gate which is Christ dead, including children, “push me can Radio Aug. 25 that looking at more than 1,000 years. “Buen Camino!” is the common closed, it is always open and open to must pass into our whole life.” once again to raise a voice so that the images of the alleged chemical greeting between pilgrims and the blessing with which everyone, without distinction, with- Pope Francis urged the tens of the roar of the weapons would stop.” attack, “I hear the cry of these chil- even the locals greet the tired pilgrims as they pass out exclusions, without privileges.” thousands of people gathered in “It is not clashes, but an ability dren, these innocent victims.” along the way. Tomorrow we hope to reach the goal of our The pope said he knew some people St. Peter’s Square not to be afraid to meet and to dialogue that offers At the same time, he said he pilgrimage and celebrate Mass at the Cathedral of Saint would be skeptical and say, “But “to pass through the gate of faith prospects for a hope of resolving prayed that the leaders of both James. Father, surely I am excluded, because in Jesus, to let him enter more and the problems,” the pope said after sides in the confl ict as well as lead- I am a great sinner. I have done so more into our lives, to go out of our reciting the Angelus with visitors in ers in the international community many things in my life.” selfi shness, our being closed in, our St. Peter’s Square. “would be gifted with much wisdom Archbishop Coakley’s Calendar But the pope insisted, “No, you are indifference toward others.” Once again the pope asked the and much prudence” as they decide how to move forward. The following events are part of Archbishop Coakley’s offi cial calendar. not excluded.” Jesus, he said, can light up a per- crowd to join him in praying that “We must do so in a way that Sept. 1- Sept. 6 – Trip to Rwanda with Catholic Relief Services “Jesus prefers the sinner, always, son’s life with “a light that never goes Mary, queen of peace, would inter- cede to stop the fi ghting that has these crimes, these massacres never Sept. 10 – Saint Ann Retirement Center Board Meeting, 8 a.m., Catholic Pastoral Center in order to pardon him, to love him,” out.” The light of faith is not fl ashy raged in Syria since March 2011 as happen again,” the archbishop said. Sept. 10 – Department Head Meeting, 10 a.m., Catholic Pastoral Center Pope Francis said. “Jesus is waiting or momentary like fi reworks, he said. rebels try to oust Syrian President “We must fi nd the most appropriate Sept. 10 – Priest Personnel Board Meeting, 2 p.m., Catholic Pastoral Center for you, to embrace you, to pardon “No, it is a soft light that always en- Bashar Assad. and opportune means to react, ways Sept. 10 – Priests Jubilarian Dinner, 6 p.m. you. Don’t be afraid: He’s waiting for dures and that gives us peace. That “From the depths of my heart, that will not complicate the situa- Sept. 15 – Our Lady of LaVang Mass and Celebration, 11:45 a.m., Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help you.” is the light that we meet if we enter Commenting on the day’s Gospel through the gate of Jesus.” I want to express my closeness in tion.” 4 September 1, 2013 Commentary Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic Local September 1, 2013 5 Living inside the Bible Whatever happened to our “Sunday best”? KRACOW, —The village of Pasierbiec is in the seminary in Tarnow and a concentration By The Sooner Catholic Staff south of Poland, about 30 miles from the old royal capital camp prisoner (like several thousand of Kracow. Its church, the Basilica of Our Lady of Conso- Polish priests). Mingled in the pews at Mass on lation, is full of votum gifts testifying to favors received At the 10th station, Cardinal Stefan any given Sunday are women wear- through the intercession of the basilica’s namesake. (The Wyszynski, primate of Poland during the ing traditional Vietnamese outfi ts church itself reminds me of a comment Pope John Paul fi rst 33 years of communist rule, holds called ao tu than, wives in the II’s secretary, now-Cardinal Stanislaw Dziwisz, once the clothes being stripped from Jesus—an beautiful tribal patterns of African made when we were looking at a photo album of new image that evokes memories of the cardi- kaftans, husbands in suits and ties, churches in Nowa Huta, the mill-town built by Polish nal being stripped of his freedom and his By George mothers in Sunday bonnets, little Most Reverend communists outside Cracow: “Troppo [Too much] Corbus- dignity during three years of house arrest. Weigel girls in bows and little boys with shiny shoes. Paul S. Coakley ier...”) Viewed close-up, the soldiers nailing In the pews, too, are women in Archbishop of Oklahoma City Outside the church, the priests and people of Pasier- Jesus to the Cross are obviously Roman; from a distance, biec have done something quite remarkable, however: their helmets are eerily reminiscent of the familiar SS strapless dresses, men in T-shirts Publisher they’ve recently constructed a stunning, contemporary helmets of World War II. with sales pitches or inappropriate Via Crucis, in which fi gures from modern Polish Catholic And at the 14th station, two contemporary Polish messages, college students in cargo Tina Korbe Dzurisin history are “inserted” into the traditional Stations of the martyrs witness the entombment of the Crucifi ed One: shorts and teenagers in short skirts. Director of Communications/ Cross. The bronzes themselves are well-done, but what is Father Jan Czuba, martyred in the Congo, and Father Is one style of dress more appropri- Editor particularly striking about the Pasierbiec Via Crucis is Zbigniew Strzalkowski, martyred in Peru. ate for Mass than another? Are all of the idea that animates these sculptures—the idea that The dedication of this shrine, which refl ects a thor- these clothing choices equally valid we can, and should, imagine ourselves living inside the oughly contemporary biblical faith, was led by the versions of “Sunday best” dress? If Cara Koenig biblical story. Or, if you prefer, the Pasierbiec Via Crucis archbishop of Cologne, Cardinal Joachim Meisner, who not, what happened to dressing our Photographer/Special Projects is a powerful invitation to look at the world around us, once told me that German martyrs, not German theolo- best for the Lord? When was modesty including recent history, through lenses ground by bibli- gians, would be the foundation on which Christianity in taken out of the dress code? Does it Brianna Osborne cal faith. 21st-century would be rebuilt after the horrors depend on the parish? Are some par- Offi ce Staff Some examples of this optic at work at Pasierbiec: of the 20th century. Meisner’s presence at the dedication ishes more “laid back” than others? In the depiction of the fi fth station, it is Blessed John was a powerful sign of the German-Polish reconciliation Are we dressing for the rest of our busy day instead of for the Lord? Volume 35, Number 17 Paul II, not Simon of Cyrene, who helps Jesus carry the sought by Wyszynski and Karol Wojtyla, the future John cross. Paul II, at the end of the ; it also When I posed these questions to At the sixth station, Blessed Jerzy Popieluszko, the bore embodied the German prelate’s conviction that Ter- pastors, friends and the archdiocesan Sooner Catholic Newspaper martyr-priest of Solidarity, relieves Jesus of some of the tullian’s second-century insight remains true, 18 centu- Facebook community, commenters 7501 Northwest Expressway weight of the Cross while Veronica wipes the Holy Face; ries later: sanguis martyrum semen christianorum [the reacted strongly to the subject. Indi- Oklahoma City, OK 73132 the message Father Jerzy preached during martial law in blood of martyrs is the seed of the Church]. viduals might decide what to wear (405) 721-1810 Poland—”Overcome evil with good”—is inscribed on the The post-modern world is a wilderness of mirrors in to Mass in the privacy of their own Fax: (405) 721-5210 Cross. which nothing is stable: even maleness and femaleness, closets — but what they choose to of behavior and reality as compared backs, etc. Please remember we are said. Email: [email protected] At the seventh station, the second fall, the Lord is two “givens” throughout recorded human history, are don affects the ability of the entire supported by Father Franciszek Blachnicki, founder of now regarded as “cultural constructs” to be altered at congregation to focus. to the Church and the Gospel. If we at Mass to worship God and not to “As a priest, I remember that I am Mailing Address: the Oasis youth movement in which tens of thousands will. Reason alone seems unable to offer a powerful anti- Father James Andrew Wickersham, choose to let negative elements in draw attention to ourselves.” to invite, encourage and welcome,” he P.O. Box 32180 of young were catechized during holiday camping dote to a post-mod culture of unreality. To see the world pastor of Sacred Heart Church in culture and society be our guides to Jamie Biller-Landry said wearing said. “The very fact that people are Oklahoma City, OK 73123 trips. around us from “inside” the biblical story of the human Alva, put it succinctly, “Nothing but life instead of the faith of the Church “Sunday best” is a longstanding tra- in church on Sunday strengthens my At the eighth station, where Jesus traditionally meets condition can be a reality-check. It’s one our culture and the best for our Lord!” and the Gospel, these affect all areas dition in her family. vocation … no matter what they are Visit us online at the women of Jerusalem, he now meets Stanislawa society badly need these days. “If we dress in our best for Sunday of life including our dress.” “My husband and I both grew up wearing on the outside.” Father Mike Chapman, pastor of in families where dressing up was www.soonercatholic.org Leszczynska and Stefania Lacka, prisoners who rescued George Weigel is Distinguished Senior Fellow of the Mass, it says we care about our devo- It’s in relation to questions like children born in the Auschwitz concentration camp. Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington, D.C. Wei- tion to the Lord,” he said. “I am not Holy Angels Church in Oklahoma part of going to Mass,” she said. “I this one – questions that are left up At the ninth station, the third fall, the priest comfort- gel’s column is distributed by the Denver Catholic Regis- saying we must be wearing tailored City, says “Sunday best” can encom- fi rst met my husband in church – he to personal discretion and pruden- Visit the Archdiocsan website ing the Lord is Blessed Roman Sitka, rector of the local ter, the offi cial newspaper of the Archdiocese of Denver. suits and dresses, but, if we are not pass a wide range of attires. had a tie on – and this added to the tial judgment – that examinations at www.archokc.org prepared to offer the best of every- “I believe many people dress for fact that I thought he was a good of conscience are often the most thing we have to the Lord, then we church in a very special way,” he Catholic boy! It’s a tradition we’ve appropriate answer. If we’re unable The Sooner Catholic Things you’ll never see again or miss are not offering him our all.” said. “I see it every Sunday. I’m not continued with our own family.” to prescribe attire for our neighbors, (USPS 066-910) is published By Father Shane Tharp moral relativist wants it Father Phil Seeton, pastor of Holy convinced we all agree on what is ap- Even as it is important to choose we can at least ask ourselves, “What biweekly except for once For the Sooner Catholic both ways —sometimes Family Church in Lawton, urges pa- propriate for church. Styles are fl uid. Mass attire wisely, though, it’s also do I wear to church? Is it my person- in July and twice in December right, other times wrong. rishioners to have a higher standard One generation’s defi nition doesn’t important not to presume to know al Sunday best? More importantly, I spend a lot of time on the Internet. Not an inordinate by the Morality can’t function for Sabbath attire than the secular necessarily agree with another gen- another person’s circumstances, what interior dispositions do I bring amount, mind you, and I certainly don’t hang out in bad Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. that way because moral- culture has for weekend attire. After eration’s. One culture does one thing. responders agreed. to Mass? Have I cleansed fi rst ‘the neighborhoods, if you catch my drift, but a lot of the work ity describes the proper all, as Archbishop Paul Coakley Another does another.” “The very best of clothing isn’t inside of the cup, so that the outside The newspaper is not responsi- I do for the parish brings me back to the internet. Re- way to relate to God and wrote in his Aug. 18 “Put Out into What doesn’t change is the signifi - always something the average family also may be clean’?” ble for unsolicited material. cently, I spotted an article entitled “Welcome to the class his expectations and the the Deep” column, the “Sabbath” and cance of the Mass, as many Facebook can afford,” Facebook commenter De- On that note, perhaps the most Copyright © 2013 Sooner of 2017.” The article dealt with all the things that while proper way to relate to “the weekend” are not at all inter- commenters emphasized. dra Meier said. “I don’t fi nd it neces- important “Sunday best” any of us Catholic familiar to old folks like me, the high school seniors of the rest of the human changeable. “There is a reason that it is called sary that every man be in a suit and could ever wear to Mass is a clean 2017 won’t have a clue what we are talking about. race. Morality also tran- our ‘Sunday best,’” Facebook com- every woman in a dress. God is love soul, courtesy of Saturday Confes- Subscription rate: $20 per year “Clothing is often seen as a way Buried about halfway down, the article made a point scends time and culture. to express ourselves,” Father See- menter Rob Blakely said. “Of course no matter what you wear.” sion, another longstanding Catholic for all who are not members of that cracked me up. According to this article, the class of we should dress nicely. We dress Facebook commenter Sharon Tut- tradition ripe for revival. the Archdiocese of Oklahoma While we must admit that ton said. “Expressing ourselves 2017 will never have printed off directions from a com- grave moral evils stain other eras of human history, we sometimes equates with seeking nicely for work, we dress nicely for tle Blakely brought up the time-hon- City. Periodical postage paid at puter; they will have used smartphones and other GPS court. The presence of the Lord is ored habit of wearing the same Oklahoma City, OK 73125. couldn’t make that observation unless the moral evil in attention. Also, we think that being devices to get from one place to another. I laughed when I much more important than those.” “Sunday best” attire every week as a question was as wrong then as it is now. If it isn’t wrong comfortable means dressing how- Father Phil Seeton’s read this because I thought everyone had stopped getting Facebook commenter Ann Camp- way to simultaneously cut costs and POSTMASTER: Send address then as it is now, then we can’t be outraged. We can’t tut ever we choose. Culture and society their directions from Mapquest and sites like it. I just bell Sorrels echoed Blakely. appear presentable. guidelines for church changes to the Sooner Catho- and shake our heads in dismay at the benighted genera- often have different understandings assumed everyone knew where to get directions. “I teach my children “As a former Protestant, I think attire lic, P.O. Box 32180, Oklahoma tions behind us. We simply must shrug our shoulders and As this Year of Faith begins to wind down, we should move forward. that we are meeting the we could all take a few lessons,” she City, OK 73123. No: begin to take stock of what we have gained and the work In essence, morality is all about directions, in this case, King of Kings, the King said. “They dress for services better Short skirts that remains to be done. We come to the point in our Cat- how do I avoid evil and do good. We are faced daily with of the Universe,” she said. than we do … and yet they don’t Low-cut tops echism refl ections when we need to talk about morality. a thousand situations that require us to choose between “We should certainly dress believe Jesus is in the building! Defi - Skin-tight clothing Now, I acknowledge up front that this often is a tricky to show our respect and nitely something wrong with this pic- good and evil. You have bills to pay. You need cash to pay “Strategically” torn area to navigate. I think most of us want to welcome adoration. My children at- ture! If we believe what we profess to those bills. How are you going to do that? You could get a clothing people to live the Catholic faith, but we (or at least, I) get , work hard, and then mail off the cash. Or you could tend Mass every Thursday believe, then we should pull out our at their school and must very best every single time! Even if it Clothing with sexually nervous on these topics. Morality can be divisive. Actu- knock over a bank. Both actions get you the cash you suggestive images ally, morality, by its nature, must be divisive as morality need but only one of them is good. wear their ‘dress uniform.’ is the same outfi t every week!” They look great! Then I or messages marks out two paths: a way of good and a way of evil. In The class of 2017 will never see printed driving direc- That’s why Father Wickersham see some of the same kids reminded Facebook fans: “Dress in Visible underwear our day, with moral relativism being the basic assump- tions, not to mention an atlas. That doesn’t mean they on Sunday wearing shorts your best – not Warren Buffett’s best Shorts that show more tion, the insistence on two paths shocks the average will never know where we are going. We, the living, do leg than they cover The Sooner Catholic and T-shirts. The concept – your best!” person, Catholic or otherwise. We all have friends who not see the eternal bliss of life with Christ, played out is supported through the of modesty seems to be In the end, though, attendance at will say, “Well, that action might be right for you, but it clearly before our eyes. That doesn’t mean that we don’t All are inappropriate. Archdiocesan Development Fund. foreign. It is distracting to Mass is ultimately of more impor- wouldn’t be right for me.” That’s moral relativism. Rather want to; you just have to follow the directions, the moral see bare shoulders, bare tance than attire, Father Chapman than insisting that an action is either right or wrong, the life of the Church. 6 September 1, 2013 Vocations Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic Local September 1, 2013 7 Beauty and beer: Monks’ outreach Catechetical Congress open to RE/RCIA teachers, youth ministers Meet Our By Brianna Osborne on the importance of passing on the The Sooner Catholic teachings of the Church, and attend Seminarians is part of new evangelization The Offi ce of Religious Education Mass celebrated by Archbishop Paul By Cindy Wooden has scheduled two important events Coakley. Catholic News Service for September. First is “Catechet- With the Year of Faith almost at an This is the ninth part in a 24-part VATICAN CITY — Even before retired Pope ical Sunday” on Sept. 15. Every end, the Congress’ main presenter series to introduce the seminarians Benedict XVI set up a pontifi cal council for new year, individual parishes renew the will discuss the appropriate topic of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma evangelization and convoked a world Synod of vocations of their religious education of “Our Faith Professed.” This year, City to the people they will one day Bishops on the theme, a new group of Benedic- singer and college professor ValLi- serve as priests. instructors. During Mass, catechists tine monks was using Latin and liturgy to reach are called up for a commissioning mar Jansen will speak, sing and pray. out to those whose faith was weak or nonexis- rite and blessed by the priest. Meet Kelly Edwards Koenig said that several staff tent. “It is also a time to remind parish- members of the Offi ce of Religious Now they’ve added beer to the blend, and peo- ioners that the catechists are called ple are fl ocking to the monastery in Norcia, the Education had heard Jansen’s and gifted in a special way but that birthplace of St. Benedict, about 70 miles north- dynamic presentations in the past, 1. What is your home parish? we are all called to catechize by vir- east of in the Umbrian countryside. which helped them to decide to invite Saint Monica’s tue of our baptism,” said Pat Koenig, But for the 18 members of St. Benedict’s mon- her to the Congress. astery, life is still about prayer. director of the Offi ce of Religious Ed- “Traditionally, the staff of the 2. What seminary do you attend? ucation. “The theme of Catechetical Saint Meinrad School of “If the prayer doesn’t come fi rst, the beer is Offi ce of Catholic Education looks for going to suffer,” said Father Benedict Nivakoff, Sunday this year is Open the Door of speakers while attending national Faith.” 3. If it is God’s will, what year will you be ordained director of the Birra Nursia brewery and subpri- conferences. We want to see and hear a priest? or of the monastery. Benedictine Brother Francis Davoren, left, head “brew- One week later, a Catechetical presenters before we invite them to Summer of 2017 The monks in Norcia initially were known for monk” or brewmaster, and Benedictine Father Benedict Congress will take place on Sept. Oklahoma,” said Koenig. Nivakoff, director of Birra Nursia, toast with their their liturgical ministry, particularly sharing 21 at the Church of the Epiphany In addition to the main presenta- their chanted prayers in Latin online — http:// blond brew at the brewery of St. Benedict’s Monastery of the Lord in Oklahoma City. At 4. How old were you when you fi rst thought that in Norcia, Italy. (CNS/Henry Daggett) tion, the Congress welcomes many God might be calling you to the priesthood? osbnorcia.org/blog — with people around the this annual meeting, catechists from religious book publishers, vendors When someone fi rst mentioned it, (I was) 14 or 15. world. Celebrating their one-year anniversary Aug. around the Archdiocese of Oklaho- with religious articles and represen- When I seriously considered it, (I was) 22 or 23. But following the Rule of St. Benedict means ma City will share their experience tatives from different archdiocesan both prayer and manual labor, with a strong em- 14 with an open house and beer tasting, the monks imbibed along with their visitors — some- of teaching the faith. Teachers of offi ces. These exhibits will open at 5. What is your favorite subject in the seminary? phasis on the monks earning their own keep. the Rite of Christian Initiation for 7:45 a.m. After just a year of brewing and selling their thing that does not happen every day, or even Any class with Mr. Ring (a famous philosophy pro- Adults, youth ministers and volun- Before noon Mass with Archbishop fessor who has been at Saint Meinrad’s for almost beer in the monastery gift shop and through every feast day. teer religious education instructors Coakley, the archdiocese will rec- forever) restaurants in Norcia, fi nancial self-suffi ciency “It’s too valuable to drink ourselves,” Father are welcome. Participants will refl ect ognize the nominees for Religious seems within reach, and the monks are talking Nivakoff said. However, when mistakes are 6. Describe your typical day. expansion. made in the brewing or bottling, some of the On pastoral year: Wake up around 7 a.m., eat “We didn’t expect it to be so enormously suc- foamy liquid makes it to the refectory table and breakfast, pray morning prayer with coffee, teach cessful,” said Father Cassian Folsom, the U.S. “no one’s upset.” If You Go class in the grade school, go to meetings, serve Benedictine who founded the community in 1998 Making sure the mistakes are kept to a min- Catechetical Congress daily Mass and sit in on any interesting meetings and serves as its prior. “There’s been a huge imum is the responsibility of Brother Francis When: Hospitality and vendors open at 7:45 a.m., Sept. 21 – whatever Father (William) Novak, (V.G.) thinks response, and our production can’t keep up with Davoren, a native of Dallas who is the brewmas- Where: Church of the Epiphany of the Lord, 7336 West Britton Road I need to see/get to know. Somewhere lunch and the demand and the demand continues to grow.” ter or “head brewmonk.” He had some experience (behind the Catholic Pastoral Center) dinner happen wherever possible. But even with the talk of expanding the brew- helping a home-brewing friend before joining Why: To gather for the liturgy with Archbishop Coakley and to hear Educator of the Year, and present the “Our hope is that the catechetical ery, and perhaps exporting some of the brew to the monastery, but is still learning even after an informative and inspirational presentation about the ministry. 7. What is the most important thing you have award. the United States, the Mass and the liturgical studying at breweries in Belgium and having a To secure a space: This is a free event, but registration is required ministers are enriched in their own learned in the seminary so far? hours are still the centerpiece of the monks’ Koenig believes participants will faith and inspired to enhance their That it’s not all about academics. Academics are Belgian brewer travel to Norcia to teach. through a parish’s director of religious education or youth ministry lives. leave the Congress “energized and efforts in catechizing and evangeliz- important, of course, but it’s about prayer and “The biggest challenge for me has been going coordinator. “Our life is very much unifi ed by the liturgy, from learning theory to actually putting that enthusiastic about their ministry.” ing,” said Koenig. about relationships. You can know everything but which forms a kind of skeleton around which ev- into practice,” he said. “Because beer is a natural if you can’t relate to God and can’t relate to people erything else takes shape,” Father Folsom said. product — it has live yeast in it —it can tend to your ministry won’t be fruitful. Many visitors tread a path between the church have a mind of its own. and the gift shop and, increasingly, from the 8. What do you look forward to most about becom- “Beer is something that often can break down A.C.T.S. retreats extend Cursillo movement in Oklahoma crates of beer to the church. By Sarah Cooper ing a priest? Father Wolf continued, “A great zanne Bauman. “Additionally, with Father Nivakoff said the monks began brew- barriers,” he said. “The beer is a catalyst” for Hearing confessions. I’ve heard that it can be hard For the Sooner Catholic deal of the focus in this retreat is on the support the A.C.T.S. community ing Aug. 15, 2012, with three goals: contributing bringing people together and giving them some- and draining but even more than that I have heard the testimony of others’ lives. There gave me, my marriage has greatly to the monastery’s self-suffi ciency; solidifying thing to talk about, but the conversations at the Oklahomans now have the oppor- priests say that it is the most rewarding part of is no more powerful a story than improved. This retreat was an an- bonds with the town; and reaching out to people monastery often do not end with the beer. tunity to experience a powerful and their ministry. to hear the story of the Gospel told swer to my prayers for strength and who are “turned off by religion.” Father Basil Nixen, the novice master, said life-changing retreat through the ef- through the lives and the experience encouragement.” the beer enterprise has raised the morale of the forts of members of Saint Benedict’s 9. Who is your favorite saint? For those who wouldn’t think of going to Mass, of another.” The members of the A.C.T.S. team monks and reinforces their sense of community in Shawnee, Okla., , because of his missionary zeal and he said, the monastery gift shop gives them a After the retreat, participants are at Saint Benedict’s said they hope because all the monks are called on to help with to bring the A.C.T.S. retreat to the because Ireland is one of my favorite places contact with the monks “in a setting and over encouraged to have a renewed sense that many more lives can be changed a product they feel comfortable with. There’s a some aspect of producing, bottling, distributing Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. of service toward their parish. The through this remarkable retreat. Or- spiritual gain for them, even though they aren’t and selling the beer. Started in Texas in 1987 and community of Saint Benedict’s has ganizers commented that they have 10. Name one thing that every Catholic needs to based on the Cursillo movement, know. looking for it.” “Here in Norcia, we’re at a very important recognized the positive effect the seen numerous marriages saved, the A.C.T.S. retreat has changed the The Church is most interested in our salvation In many circumstances, Father Nivakoff said, place for evangelization” because so many A.C.T.S. retreats have had through families reconciled and even one con- lives of more than 450,000 peo- and happiness, even when it seems like it’s asking “we have to preach the Gospel without preaching tourists and pilgrims come through the town, he increased participation in the parish version to the Catholic faith. ple. Through personal testimonies, impossible things. God made us and so his Church the Gospel — just through the example of Chris- said. “We’re continually sharing with others our activities. Those who have experi- “I was a cradle Catholic and never discussion, reconciliation and the Eu- has our best interest at heart. tian charity and being kind to people.” life, above all the liturgy. enced the A.C.T.S. retreat now want realized what a great gift that was. The monks’ Mass, often celebrated using the charist, the three-day retreat assists to enthusiastically participate in During the retreat, I realized what it “People come to the monastery for the beer,” he participants in surrendering their Texas with Keller. 11. Describe your relationship with Christ. extraordinary or pre-Vatican II rite, and their their Catholic faith. truly meant to be a Catholic man and said, but they leave realizing God brought them lives to Christ. The A.C.T.S. retreat Christ is present to me most especially in the beer may appeal to different people, but Father “I was most impressed with its “I converted to the faith because father,” said Bricen Mohr, a member to Norcia to meet him. acronym refers to the four topics on Blessed Sacrament, though I challenge myself dai- Nivakoff said the beauty in both can open people focus on developing the members of of my husband but I had not really of the A.C.T.S. team. “The A.C.T.S. Making beer “perhaps dissipates any fear which participants focus: adoration, ly to seek out Christ in the face of others as well. to God. a parish,” Father Wolf said. “It has made it my own. After the retreat, retreat was the greatest thing that that we might be judgmental or overly critical community, theology and service. He is often most present where you least expect After years of study and research, including been very helpful in focusing the I was grounded in the church and ever happened to me and my family.” of them,” he said. People assume beer-making “After attending an A.C.T.S. re- him to be. Father Folsom’s visits to Trappist breweries in parish experience into a communal my new prayer life and fully made it Sarah Cooper is a freelance writer monks will accept them. treat in my hometown of San Antonio Belgium to see how the monks ensure their busi- brotherhood and sisterhood, some- mine,” explained participant Su- for the Sooner Catholic. Brother Anthony Zemenick, a native of Arling- I knew I needed to bring this retreat 12. Why choose a life of sacrifi cial love in any ness does not disrupt their prayer and commu- thing we have lacked in our parish.” back to the people of Oklahoma,” vocation rather than a life of self-gratifi cation? nity life, the monks in Norcia decided to make ton, Texas, who has been at the monastery for Secluded at Our Lady of Gua- organizer Patty Keller said. “I was so Self-gratifi cation is ultimately never satisfying. It two Belgian-style beers — a “blond” and a dark, seven years, said the beer “is really good stuff.” dalupe Camp, retreat participants inspired by how the retreat changed If You Go is in love for another that we fi nd true happiness. which has an alcohol content of 10 percent. “I’m not the world’s most experienced beer my life. The A.C.T.S. retreat brings listen to talks by guest speakers, who Women’s Retreat: Sept. 27 to Sept.28, 2013, at OLOG It is evident in the life of a priest who gives ev- The dark’s alcohol content is much higher than connoisseur, but I’ve tried several different types a sense of community and service to have previously attended the retreat, Men’s Retreat: April 24 to April 25, 2014, at OLOG erything for the good of his fl ock but it is equally U.S. beers, but is similar to the “tripel” Belgian and I’d say ours is the best ... not just because parishes and helps to grow evangeli- and discuss their own experience Teen Retreat: July 11 to July 12, 2014 evident in the life of a family where parents give Trappist beers. It also goes well with the food it’s ours, but because of the fl avor, too,” he said. zation efforts in the community.” with the Catholic faith. Retreats To secure a space: $150 to $175. For more information about one of everything they have for the good of their children. of Norcia — famous for pork sausage and wild Editor’s note: Brother Francis Davoren, who are conducted separately for men Sacrifi cial love is life-giving because those you love Father Don Wolf, who was pastor of these retreats or to bring A.C.T.S. to your parish, please contact Patty boar — and traditional Italian drinking habits in is featured in this article, is the son of Russ and and women, which allows for more give love in return. Selfi shness does not give life Saint Benedict’s during the organiz- Keller at [email protected] or (405) 513-3900. which wine or beer accompanies a meal, Father Donna Davoren, parishioners at Saint Mark the open discussion of the very personal because it affords itself nowhere to receive it from. ing stages, was particularly amazed Nivakoff said. Evangelist parish in Norman. by the A.C.T.S. retreat he attended in topics. 8 September 1, 2013 Across Oklahoma Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic Across Oklahoma September 1, 2013 9 It’s school time once again...

Back to Schools in photo collage: All Saints School, Norman; Bishop McGuinness High School, Oklahoma City; Mount St. Mary High School, Oklahoma City; Sacred Heart School, Oklahoma City; St. Eugene School, Oklahoma City; St. John Nepomuk School, Yukon; St. Mary School, Guthrie; St. Philip Neri School, Midwest City. School!

“Of Heaven and Earth” exhibit audio guide features Archbishop Coakley, others By Tina Korbe Dzurisin Author Maria Ruiz Scaperlanda, a parishioner The Sooner Catholic at Saint in Norman, also An exhibit that features some 40 Italian paint- contributed commentary to the audio guide. ings from the Middle Ages into the 19th century As her subject, she selected a painting by opened Saturday, Aug. 24, at the Oklahoma City Giovanni Battista Salvi da Sassoferrato titled Museum of Art. “Virgin and Child with Saint Elizabeth and the “Of Heaven and Earth: 500 Years of Italian Child Baptist.” Painting from Glasgow Museums” highlights “In this image, it’s the hands that surprise the work of renowned Italian painters, including me,” Scaperlanda wrote on her personal web- Bellini, Botticelli and Titian. The majority of the site. “There are a lot of hands around that bowl. paintings in the exhibit have never before been on There’s Jesus, already acknowledging the good- display in the United States. ness, the presence of by lovingly Because the Catholic Church was a major pa- touching his back – but what about Elizabeth?” Annual Mass and Celebration of Our Lady of La Vang will be Sept. 15 at tron of Italian Renaissance painters, the exhibit “When I put up my hands the way I see Eliza- The Year of Faith pilgrimages are over, questions answered, commemorative Our Lady’s Cathedral. The event will start at 11:45 a.m. All are welcome. Our showcases a signifi cant number of religious works, beth’s, my imagination lights up,” she continued. pins distributed – but, for those who participated, the memory of the experience Lady of La Vang is the central and national shrine of Vietnam. During the great including “Virgin and Child” by Giovanni Bellini, “I wonder — what unexpected thing surprises will last a lifetime. Many groups – including youth groups, RCIA groups, groups persecution (1798-1801) many Catholics took refuge in the jungle. One day, as “ and the Rebel Angels” by Cav- her? Is she taken back by worry or fear about her from individual parishes, families, friends and couples – took the pilgrimage the community was assembled in prayer, an apparition appeared to them. She son’s future — in relation to this divine baby? Or tours together. presented herself as the Mother of God, encouraged and consoled them. Mary aliere d’Arpino and “Saint Catherine Crowned” by Bartolomeo Veneto, among many others. perhaps — what really surprises her is how fully Everyone who took pilgrimages had great things to say about their tours. appeared on several occasions at the same site. After the persecution in 1802, the “The Annunciation” by Sandro Botticelli. “Thank you” was among the top. So many people thanked the committee and the Catholics left their jungle hiding place and returned to their villages. In 1820 a As a part of a project to create a museum-provid- human this baby Jesus, son of God, truly is?” volunteers and parish staff for allowing these glimpses into the history of the chapel was built at the site. From 1820 to 1885 still another wave of persecution ed community-sourced cell phone audio guide to ciation. There’s such variety.” The exhibit will be at the Oklahoma City Muse- Catholic Church in Oklahoma. decimated the Catholic population. More than 100,000 Vietnamese Catholics died the exhibit, Archbishop Paul Coakley contributed “The theme itself is so rich for me as a Chris- um of Art from now until Nov. 17. From here, it “It was truly a blessed day in so many ways and our fi nal stop, the Pastoral his commentary on “The Annunciation” by Sandro will travel to four additional museums in the U.S.: as martyrs. In 1885 the chapel in honor of Our Lady of La Vang was destroyed tian, as a believer, as a Catholic,” he continued. Center, was extra-rich icing on the cake!” said H. Allen Smith from Our Lady of Botticelli. the Art Gallery of Alberta in Edmonton, Canada; by a fanatic. A new chapel was built between 1886 and 1901 and in 1923 a new “Mary is such an important fi gure for us in our Sorrows parish in Chandler. “Mary (Fahy) provided a fantastic tour of the Pasto- and bigger church was erected. It was consecrated Aug. 22. Every three years a “Botticelli’s ‘Annunciation’ is a piece that res- the Everson Museum of Art in Syracuse, NY; Mil- tradition. It evokes serenity as I ponder it, a sense ral Center and museum, which was enjoyed by all, both young and old! Then we national pilgrimage was organized for the whole country which was to have a onates with me,” the archbishop said. “I have to waukee Art Museum; and Santa Barbara Museum were all blown away when Archbishop Coakley came out to visit with us … and special meaning even after the separation of South and North. In 1959 La Vang admit that it’s hard for me to separate the paint- of joy and hope, again not only by the artistry, of Art. he gave us a fi nal blessing for our journey home! We have been talking non-stop was offi cially declared a national shrine, marking the 300 years of the Church’s ing from the theme. I’m always intrigued by the the color, the design, but the meaning for me as a Tina Korbe Dzurisin is the director of communi- about how great a day we all had.” presence in Vietnam (AAS 51 (1959) 84-86). The Church of La Vang was made a different ways in which artists portray the Annun- person of faith.” cations for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Above: Fr. James Mickus talks about Old St. Joseph Cathedral to his youth basilica minor in 1961. group before entering the church on pilgrimage. 10 September 1, 2013 Local Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic Local September 1, 2013 11 Catholic school scholarships begin second year Lives of the saints appeal to children in new illustrated book series “Saints and Me: North America” humility and complete dependence cessible to young children through OKLAHOMA CITY — The Cath- to grow our enrollment and make book series by Barbara Yoffi e and on God are demonstrated in each of Yoffi e’s straight-forward storytelling, olic Schools Opportunity Scholar- Catholic schools accessible to more Katherine Borgatti (Liguori, 2012- their lives. The idea that you can be proposes a truly heroic life for all ship program for the Archdiocese of and more children. Our schools need 2013, $4.99 each) anything you want to be is placed Christians to emulate. Though the Oklahoma City seeks donations for a solid fi nancial footing if they are aside in favor of the reality that illustrations are not strong, they need-based scholarships, which are to remain viable. Our schools need humbly following God’s plan for us adequately represent the events of awarded to Catholic students who ways to provide tuition assistance to can lead to something far stranger Brother André’s life, making the book attend Catholic schools within the those who otherwise could not afford Reviewed by Anamaría Scaperlan- and greater than anything we could approachable even for young children archdiocese. the benefi ts of a Catholic school da Biddick otherwise imagine. with limited verbal skills. The book The primary purpose of the pro- education. These remain some of our Barbara Yoffi e and Katherine gram is to allow as many students as greatest challenges and the greatest Saint André Bessette, born Alfred does not contain any explicit lessons possible to attend Catholic schools by threat to the continued fl ourishing Borgatti’s “Saints and Me: North Bessette, is a wonderful example for the child, but, instead, allows the providing tuition assistance to Cath- of our Catholic schools. Our Catholic America” series shares the lives of of God’s hand in human lives. Al- story to speak on its own. Readers olic families with the greatest need. schools have fl ourished because of holy men and women in a manner fred’s poor health barred him from will come to love Brother André and In 2012, the program awarded 39 the generous stewardship of families, appropriate to preschool and early different types of work he wanted to the other saints featured in Yoffi e’s scholarships from the funds received religious women and men, priests elementary children. Yoffi e’s writing do, from farm work to shoemaking book. in 2011. The gifts received for the and parishioners who together have leads the child through the story in to bread baking, but it did not limit For more resources, be sure to program in 2012 were used to award made tremendous sacrifi ces to make a manner that she can understand, him from being an instrument of look out for the new “Saints and Me: scholarships to 71 students for the Catholic schools available for their while Borgatti’s illustrations give life God’s grace. Throughout his young Christmas series,” set to be released 2013-2014 school year. The scholar- children, grandchildren and their to the words. adulthood, Alfred developed a devo- Oct. 1. Stronger illustrations in the ships were awarded to students at neighbor’s children. It has always The series currently consists of six tion to , praying to him lives of the saints can be found in all 21 Catholic elementary and high been a shared commitment and a thin illustrated books, each about for help. Eventually, Alfred joined Tomie dePaola’s books on Mary, Ben- schools in the archdiocese. shared sacrifi ce.” a saint who lived and worked on lepers on the Hawaiian island of the Congregation of Holy Cross and edict and Scholastica, Francis, and “I am really pleased that we are Earlier this year the archbishop our continent, as well as an activity Molokai, while Saint Kateri Tekak- became known as Brother André. Patrick, among others. able to offer these scholarships to asked that all Catholics consider book encompassing all six stories. witha spent her days as a dedicated Brother André worked as a door Older children might enjoy Ig- Scholarship Fund, Inc. was formed to a specifi c Catholic school, while the The stories introduce Saints Kateri keeper for Notre Dame College in natius Press’s Vision Series, which assist families in providing a Cath- becoming a partner in the growth adorer of the Eucharist—all are olic education for their children in be the scholarship-granting orga- remaining 25 percent is distributed and support of Catholic education. Tekakwitha, Elizabeth Ann Seton, Montreal, showing God’s welcoming currently includes 30 books on saints united in living for Christ and in the Archdiocese,” Archbishop Paul nization for the Catholic Schools in to all Catholic Schools in the archdi- Whether a gift is in the denomina- Juan Diego, André Bessette, Rose love to all he encountered. Many such as Saint Louis, Saint Thomas sharing Christ’s love with all those S. Coakley said. “As an expression the archdiocese, according to Barney ocese. tion of $100, $500, $1000, $2000 or Philippinne Duchesne and Damien people, especially those who were Aquinas, Saints Francis and Clare, of the Church’s mission, our schools’ Semtner, executive director of the Semtner said the largest contribu- $4000, each donation helps to ensure de Veuster. Though their lives were they encounter. sick, began to ask Brother André for and . primary purpose is to be evangeliz- Catholic Foundation of Oklahoma, tion to the Opportunity Scholarship that children who don’t have the op- diverse in circumstance—Saint Their heroic lives inspire all of us his prayers. Later, they returned to Anamaria Scaperlanda Biddick ing communities of disciples. Cath- who administers the program. Fund so far has been a $10,000 gift. portunity for Catholic education will Damien de Veuster, also known as with a very countercultural model of tell him they were healed. is a freelance writer and math tutor olic schools are privileged places of A married couple fi ling jointly can He said contributions more than be able to attend their local Catholic Damien of Molokai, ministered to greatness. Sacrifi cial love, simplicity, Brother André’s story, made ac- living in Oklahoma City. evangelization. Here faith is nur- give up to $4,000 and qualify for doubled in the second year of the school. tured through a close collaboration the income tax credit, while a single program and already the fund has individual can give up to $2,000 and collected this year more than $80,000 Young adults invited to spend time with Archbishop Coakley with parents.” To learn more about making qualify for the income tax credit. A for scholarships that will be distrib- By Brianna Osborne op, and he gets to know them,” said story since she began working at the Father Rother’s story, the more peo- The Oklahoma legislature passed a gift to the Catholic Schools gift up to $200,000 from corporations uted for the 2014-2015 school year. The Sooner Catholic Jaime. Sooner Catholic some 16 years ago. ple can pray for his cause.” the Equal Opportunity Scholarship Opportunity Scholarship Fund will qualify for this tax credit. The In sharing his vision for the At the event, young men and wom- “A call for comes Act in 2011 to provide a 50 percent and receiving a tax credit, call All young adults in the Archdiocese At the event, registration will tax credit is in addition to a tax de- schools in our archdiocese, Arch- en will hear from speakers, attend from the people; it doesn’t come from Oklahoma income tax credit to the Catholic Foundation offi c- of Oklahoma City are invited to pray begin at 2:30 p.m. in the CPC Confer- duction for the same gift that is still bishop Coakley said, “In order for Mass in the chapel and have time for the top down. That is why it is so donors who make gifts to a scholar- es at (405) 721-4115 or email and have dinner with Archbishop ence Center. The speakers’ program available to donors. Up to 75 percent our Catholic schools to continue to fellowship. important to talk at events like the ship-granting organization. [email protected]. Paul Coakley on Sunday, Sept. 29. will begin at 3 p.m., accompanied by of each donation can be earmarked to fl ourish, we have to strategize ways Archbishop Coakley could not be young adult Mass and cookout,” said The Catholic Schools Opportunity It’s a tradition that began nine years reached for comment while he was Koenig. “The more people who know announcements of signifi cant events ago, when Archbishop Eusebius Bel- on pilgrimage to Santiago de Com- Father Rother’s story, the more they at local parishes. Archbishop Coakley tran welcomed young adults to the Labor SVDP postela, but he has enjoyed the event can tell others. The other aspect is will celebrate Mass at 5 p.m., fol- Catholic Pastoral Center for a Mass in past years. His fi rst year at the continued from page 1 likelihood that a person will move up the economic continued from page 1 and cookout. The tradition continued prayer. The more people who know lowed by the cookout at 6 p.m. one way they have helped many tornado vic- cookout, he gave a talk on his own according to a paper by scholar Robert Lerman in ladder, according to “Pathways to Economic Mobil- when Archbishop Coakley came to the journal Economica. ity: Key Indicators” by Stuart M. Butler, William tims. faith journey. Oklahoma City. The decline of intact families accounted for more W. Beach and Paul L. Winfree. “I shake my head to think that the City of This year, Deacon Joe Forgue “It’s an opportunity to bring young than one-fi fth of the increase in family income As Pope Leo XIII continued in “Rerum Novar- Moore is charging families who have lost their will break down Pope Francis’ fi rst If You Go adults together,” said Becky Jaime, inequality in a study by Gary Burtless for the um,” “Christian morality, when adequately and homes to have their water hooked up again, but encyclical, Lumen Fidei, “The Light Young Adult Annual Mass & Cookout with Archbishop Paul Coakley Brookings Institution. completely practiced, leads of itself to temporal that’s the way it is, and that is one of the ways associate director of the Offi ce of of Faith.” With only two months left When: 2:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, September 29 Half of all children born to continuously married prosperity, for it merits the blessing of that God that we’re helping the families.” Youth and Young Adult Ministry, in the Year of Faith, this is an oppor- Where: Catholic Pastoral Center, 7501 NW Expressway. Registration parents in the bottom third of income move to who is the source of all blessings; it powerfully Saint Vincent de Paul — along with Catho- and coordinator for the event. Young tunity to learn more about the faith in Conference Room 2 and 3 either the middle or the top as compared to only a restrains the greed of possession and the thirst for lic Charities, the Salvation Army and the Red adults include teens that are out of and about Pope Francis. Why: For young adults ages 18 to 39 and Archbishop Coakley to get to quarter of children in divorced families, according pleasure – twin plagues, which too often make a Cross — is one of the major organizations that high school and those in their 20s The second speaker is Cara Koenig. know one another. to the paper “Family Structure and the Econom- man who is void of self-restraint miserable in the are hiring case managers to work for long-term and 30s. A member of the Historical Commit- Ticket Prices: Cost is $10 per person. ic Mobility of Children” by Thomas DeLeire and midst of abundance; it makes men supply for the recovery for the tornado victims. “High school youth get to meet the tee for the Cause of Canonization To secure a space: Call your local parish young adult contact or the Leonard M. Lopoo. lack of means through economy, teaching them to The Walk for the Poor, in addition to aiding archbishop at their confi rmation, but, for Father Stanley Offi ce of Youth and Young Adult Ministry at (405) 721-9220, or email Becky Jaime at [email protected]. Visit http://archokc.org/youth-and- Children living in single-parent homes are be content with frugal living, and, further, keeping the Vincentians in their regular work, will for the young adults, not everyone Rother, Koenig is a board member also benefi t the tornado victims still in need of young-adult-offi ce/home for more details. Register by Tuesday, Sept. 24. 50 percent more likely to experience poverty as them out of the reach of those vices which devour has the opportunity. At this fun after- of the Father Rother Guild. She has assistance. adults when compared to children from intact not small incomes merely, but large fortunes, and noon, they get to know the archbish- been involved with Father Rother’s “The Walk for the Poor is our major fundrais- married homes, writes Robert Rector in the paper dissipate many a goodly inheritance.” er, and we will certainly benefi t from that and “Marriage: America’s Greatest Weapon Against This Labor Day, let us not reduce the faith to continue to use it for the victims here,” Valaldez Archdiocese to host Region 10 Catholic Youth Conference Child Poverty.” the mere material. To borrow again from Pope Leo said. “No doubt that is going to be a long-term The U.S. bishops might not have explicitly XIII, “Let, then, our associations look fi rst and By The Sooner Catholic Staff Ministry, said daughter, Julie, Two thousand people are expect- recovery for those families.” intended the call to prayer for life, marriage and before all things to God; let religious instruction The Region 10 Catholic Youth that they in the bombing ed to attend the conference at the Anamaría Scaperlanda Biddick is a freelance have been of the Murrah Renaissance Ballroom. Besides the religious liberty as a tool to fi ght poverty, but, as have therein the foremost place, each one being writer and math tutor living in Oklahoma City. Conference to be hosted in Okla- thinking Federal Build- speakers, there will be workshops Catholics pray and work to strengthen marriage, carefully taught what is his duty to God, what he homa City Nov. 21 to Nov. 23, 2014 they effectively pray and work to end poverty, too. has to believe, what to hope for, and how he is to about the ing in 1995. for youth and their adult leaders, as was one of the topics discussed at Just 8 percent of families in which mothers and work out his salvation; and let all be warned and idea of “hope,” Now he is an well as time for the youth to “have a biannual planning meeting held fathers (1) fi nished high school, (2) married before strengthened with special care against wrong especially in international- an experience of the larger Church” If You Go Aug. 12 to Aug. 15 at the Catholic having a child and (3) married after the age of 20 principles and false teaching. Let the working man Walk for the Poor the face of ly recognized by connecting with other Catho- Pastoral Center. Members of the are poor, whereas 79 percent of those who failed to be urged and led to the worship of God, to the ear- When: 9 a.m., Sept. 29 adversity or speaker for The lics, said Housh. Catholic Charities lead committee of Catholic youth do those three things are poor, according to a 2002 nest practice of religion, and, among other things, Where: All Saints’ Catholic School, tragedy. This Forgiveness and the Knights of Columbus may article in City Journal by sociologist James Q. to the keeping holy of Sundays and holy days. Let 4001 NW 36th St. in Norman ministers from dioceses in Oklaho- would be sig- Project. collaborate with the archdiocesan Wilson. As the oft-cited statistic goes, being raised him learn to reverence and love holy Church, the Why: To raise money for the Society of ma, Arkansas and Texas met with nifi cant for local youth since Catho- The members of the Region 10 planners, as they did when Okla- in a married family reduces a child’s probability of common Mother of us all; and hence to obey the Saint Vincent de Paul young people from the Archdio- lics are the minority in Oklahoma. committee choose the speakers for homa City hosted the conference in living in poverty by about 80 percent. precepts of the Church, and to frequent the sacra- To secure a space: Arrive early to reg- cese of Oklahoma City, inquiring Being Catholic is countercultural, the event, but the archdiocese will 2004. Evangelization itself also offers irreplaceable ments, since they are the means ordained by God ister or register online at www.stvincent- about issues that are important to said Housh, and Catholics must be be able to plan many of the prayers Those wishing to volunteer may help and hope to those who are poor, although for obtaining forgiveness of sin and for leading a depaulokc.org. Four hundred fi fty free teens—a conversation that could faithful in the face of chaos. Bud that are used throughout the confer- call the Offi ce of Youth and Young economics presumably ought never to be the mo- holy life.” T-shirts will be given away. Donations lead to a theme for the conference. Welch, one of the speakers proposed ence. Housh said they plan to have Adult Ministry at (405) 721-9220. tive for evangelization: Involvement in religious Tina Korbe Dzurisin is the director of communi- can be made through the website. Nancy Housh, director of the by the committee, has had his faith a prayer service at the Bombing Me- For more information go to archokc. and other community organizations increases the cations for the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Offi ce of Youth and Young Adult tested by tragedy. Welch lost his morial in downtown Oklahoma City. org. 12 September 1, 2013 Spanish Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic Spanish September 1, 2013 13

Lánzate a lo más Profundo Cortas enseñanzas de Apologética Católica Luke 5:4 Veremos en el presente artículo, Testigos se llama ran, por lo incon- de Cristo. algunos puntos importantes de la “Traducción del Nuevo Mundo de gruente, errado y Ahora bien, Los Testigos de Jehová Oraciones a lo largo del Camino Portugués doctrina de los Testigos de Jehová. las Sagradas Escrituras.” Podemos lleno de terquedad son conocidísimos por sus enseñan- Nota del editor: Desde del 15 al 22 de agosto, peregrinos a Santiago (fl echa amarilla) y otros a Ahora, casi a 16 Como principio y base doctrinal, no citar algunos textos, para que el académica: El zas raras y poco convencionales, tales nuestro Arzobispo Pablo Coakley viajó a pie por Fátima (fl echa azul). Entraremos a España más millas de Santi- aceptan otra fuente de revelación lector se dé cuenta de cómo manipu- querer afirmar a como la negación de las transfusiones el Camino Portugués de Barcelos, Portugal, a tarde en el día de hoy. ago de Compos- que la Biblia. Se diferencia de otros lan su traducción: Juan 1,1; Timoteo toda costa que el de sangre; o que Jesús murió en un Santiago de Compostela, España, la ciudad de la 18 de agosto — ¡El día 4 en el Camino Portugués tela, tenemos grupos, para ellos no existe la libre 2,13; Segunda de Colosenses 4,4; nombre de Dios palo. Pero lo que tal vez muchos ig- interpretación. La organización de Mateo 28,17; Juan 14,9-11 etc. Otra es Jehová, es una noran es que no siempre los Testigos Catedral de Santiago Apóstol. Durante su peregri- fue un día largo! Habíamos cruzado a España en la experiencia los Testigos de Jehová se atribuye cosa que los identifica es la clase de transliteración; es tuvieron esta doctrina o manera de naje, llevo consigo las oraciones e intenciones de Tuy el día anterior. En lugar de paseos suaves a de formar parte Por Padre ella misma como infalible en su vocabulario que emplea, cambiando tal la obstinación Raúl Sánchez pensar. Muchas de sus doctrinas, son muchos en nuestra arquidiócesis. Lo que sigue son través de un hermoso campo caminamos sobre de una gran demasiado pavimento ayer y mis pies lo están sin- interpretación. Ellos definen a la el vocabulario verdadero de las tra- que incluyen en el nuevas, que contradicen las anterior- extractos de la cuenta de Facebook del Arzobispo. peregrinación tiendo. Caminamos más de 10 horas y recorrimos Biblia como la palabra escrita de ducciones originales: No dicen cruz, Nuevo Testamento es. Ejemplo de ello, lo tenemos con 15 de agosto — ¡Día 1 en el Camino Portugués! unidos a cientos más de 20 millas. Hoy va a ser un paseo fácil, Dios Jehová para todo el mundo; al pare- dicen “madero de tormento”; no dicen 237 veces el nombre Jehová, jamás la celebración de las navidades y el En el camino a Santiago de Compostela nos encon- de peregrinos cer Jehová utilizó alrededor de unos fin del mundo, dicen “conclusión del en los originales aparece tal cosa. año Nuevo. Para el fundador de los tramos con una maravillosa procesión en honor de mediante. ¡Siempre hay sorpresas en el camino! Y muchas bendiciones. que se diri- cuarenta secretarios humanos que sistema de cosas”; no dicen Espíri- Más bien la investigación histórica Testigos no había problema en estas la Santísima Virgen María en esta Solemnidad de Arzobispo Pablo S. Coakley 19 de agosto — Día 5 el Camino Portugués nos gen a Santiago la pusieron por escrito en el lapso de tu Santo, dicen “ fuerza activa de y científica de los especialistas la fiestas, pero para el que continuó con su Asunción a los cielos. ¡Fue un día muy largo y muchos siglos; esta es la base y fun- Dios”; no dicen Antiguo Testamento, niegan y contradicen. los Testigos, una vez muerto Russell, llevó a lo largo de antiguos caminos romanos y y a la tumba del Santiago Apóstol. Incontables difícil físicamente pero hermoso paisaje y clima! damento para considerarla inspirada dicen “Escrituras Hebreas”; no dicen Los Testigos de Jehová no aceptan sí que le importó prohibir celebrar una entrada de costa hermosa. Llegamos a Pon- miles han caminado estos mismos caminos por 16 de agosto — Día 2 en el Camino Portugués. por Dios. Nuevo Testamento, dicen “Escrituras los milagros como prueba del obrar y estas festividades, por considerar- tevedra, una ciudad hermosa en Galicia llena de más de 1.000 años. “¡Buen Camino!” es el saludo Nos sometimos al punto más alto de la ruta por- Los Testigos de Jehová, poseen Griegas Cristianas”; no dicen Iglesia, la acción de Jesús, sostiene esta or- las de origen pagano o contrarias a una magnífi ca arquitectura medieval y una vida común entre los peregrinos y la bendición con la tuguesa hacia Santiago de Compostela. Fue un su propia versión de la Biblia; su dicen “congregación”; no dicen gracia, ganización que los profetas también la Biblia. Una doctrina o doctrinas vibrante citadina. Desafortunadamente, hay un cual incluso los lugareños dan la bienvenida a los ascenso agotador, pero ofreció una muy hermosa traducción es amañada, manipulada, dicen “bondad inmerecida”; no dicen hicieron milagros parecidos a los de cualquier iglesia u organización, carnaval de verano detrás de nuestro albergue y peregrinos cansados a medida que pasan por el vista. Celebramos Misa esa tarde en una iglesia desconoce las reglas más simples del Obispo, dicen “superintendente”; no de Jesucristo, así que no existe una sostenidas sin ningún tipo de base parece que va seguir fuerte ¡hasta altas horas de camino. Mañana esperamos llegar a la meta de del siglo 13 llamada São Pedro de Rubiães. ¡He griego y del hebreo; la traducción dicen adorar, dicen “rendir homena- diferencia sustancial entre el obrar histórica, bíblica o de Tradición, no la madrugada! Un comienzo temprano en la maña- nuestra peregrinación y celebrar la Santa Misa en sido bendecido con grandes compañeros para este está dada precisamente para res- je”. Lo siguiente que voy a decir, es de Jesús y el de los profetas; esto les puede ser de ningún modo la Iglesia na (antes del amanecer) nos llevará a nuestro la Catedral de Santiago. paldar su doctrina. La Biblia de los algo que me gustaría que no olvida- sirve de base para negar la divinidad que Cristo fundó. viaje! destino en Caldas de Reis antes del calor del día. 23 de agosto — Llegamos a Santiago la tarde de 17 de agosto — Día 3 del Camino Portugués 20 de agosto — ¡Otro inicio al amanecer en el día ayer, el octavo día de nuestra peregrinación en el nos lleva a lo largo de antiguos caminos romanos 6 de nuestro Camino nos trajo a Caldas de Reis Dice el papa que la Virgen María siempre está cerca, ayudando a la Iglesia Camino Portugués. Después de desempolvarnos (Vía XIX) y por medio de un hermoso campo. Con para las 12:30 evitando así el calor de la tarde! Se un poco la primera orden del día fue celebrar la Por Cindy Wooden la Misa, el papa Francisco dijo que el confiaran en ella como “nuestra frecuencia pasamos marcadores que dirigen a los supone que la tempera- Catholic News Service pasaje del capítulo 11 del libro de las madre, nuestra representante, nues- tura llegara hoy a los 90 Misa en una pequeña capilla al lado de la tumba CIUDAD DEL VATICANO — La Revelaciones o Apocalipsis, en donde tra hermana, la primera creyente que grados aquí. Era un her- del Santiago el Mayor, Apóstol. Allí coloque las Virgen María, madre de Jesús y se describe a una mujer en parto y entró a los cielos”. moso escenario a través numerosas peticiones de oración y las intenciones madre de la Iglesia, ya se encuentra un dragón que espera para devorar También el papa dijo que la Magní- de viñedos y colinas de que he recibido en el altar en el Santo Sacrifi cio de en la Gloria de los cielos, pero siem- al niño recién nacido, representa a fica, formula que encierra la respues- la campiña gallega. Ten- la Misa. ¡Fue un día tan vivifi cante! Hoy vamos a pre está con la Iglesia y le ayuda a la iglesia “gloriosa y triunfante; pero ta de la Virgen María al arcángel emos dos días más antes disfrutar de la rica cultura de esta hermosa ciudad todavía, por otra parte, sumida en San : “Mi alma proclama la superar las tribulaciones causadas de llegar a Santiago de antigua y a celebrar la Misa del Peregrino con los dolores de parto”. grandeza del Señor...” que aparece en por el demonio, dijo el papa Francisco. Compostela y la tumba Empero, y a pesar de que los segui- el Evangelio de San Lucas 1:46-55, es peregrinos que han llegado o regresado a Santia- A pesar de que la Iglesia es bendita de Santiago Apóstol dores de Jesús continúan enfrentán- un cántico de esperanza, cántico en- go. y santa, en la tierra continúa vivien- dentro de la magnífi ca dose a las tentaciones y problemas, tonado por “muchos santos”, incluy- 24 de agosto — Salimos de Santiago hoy. Ano- do a través de “tribulaciones y retos catedral de esa ciudad la Virgen María permanece a su lado, endo en ese número a “mamás, papás, che tuvimos el privilegio de celebrar la Misa en el que causa el conflicto entre Dios y antigua. Estoy llevando de manera igual como permaneció abuelitas, abuelitos, misione-ros, sac- altar mayor. Al fi nal de la Misa, pusimos incienso el demonio, eterno enemigo”, dijo el las oraciones e inten- con los apóstoles durante su vida erdotes, hermanas religiosas, jóvenes, en el Botafumeiro antes de ser izado por ocho papa en su homilía del 15 de agosto ciones de muchos con- terrena. incluso niños y niñas, que se han hombres y columpiarse en el aire como una señal en una Misa para celebrar la fiesta migo. ¡Santiago Apóstol, “Ella, por supuesto, ya ha entra- enfrentado a la lucha por la vida” con dramática de las oraciones de tantos peregrinos de la Asunción de la Virgen María. ruega por nosotros! do, de una vez por todas, a la Gloria de María les pueden dar la fortaleza la firme esperanza de la victoria de la subiendo al cielo. En esta nuestra última mañana El papa celebró la Misa en la 21 de agosto — Los de los cielos”, dijo el papa; “pero eso que necesitan para continuar “la resurrección, “la vict-oria del amor”. celebramos una Misa en la tumba de Santiago plaza principal de Castel Gandolfo, primeros días de nues- no quiere decir que esté distante o batalla en contra del demonio y sus “En donde haya una cruz, allí hay Apóstol, cuyas reliquias se encuentran contenidas pequeña población, situada en las alejada de nosotros. En lugar de eso, esperanza”, dijo el papa. tro Camino caminamos cómplices”. prácticamente solo. en un hermoso sarcófago de plata. ¡Bendito sea colinas, a 13 millas al sur de Roma, la Virgen María nos acompaña, lucha En el rezo del Ángelus después de lugar en el que los papas anteriores “¿Rezan ustedes el Rosario todos Arzobispo Coakley en negro, con el Obispo James Sean Wall y el Padre Bill Dickinson ¡Esto comenzó a cambi- Dios en Sus ángeles y Sus santos! ¡Alabado sea junto con nosotros, sostiene a los cris- Misa, el papa Francisco dijo que la habían pasado los meses del verano. los días?”, les preguntó; y la multitud en Pontecesures. ar hace un par de días! Jesucristo! tianos en su lucha contra las fuerzas gloria de la Virgen María empezó Se calculaba en unas 12,000 personas del mal”. contestó en voz alta con un “Sí”. Y cuando dio “el sí” ante los planes de que se habían reunido en la plaza y El papa Francisco le dijo a la volvió a preguntar: Dios. Cosas que nunca volvería a ver o se pierda a lo largo de la calle principal para multitud que el rezo del Rosario y la “¿De veras?” “Cada ‘sí’ que le decimos a Dios es Por Padre Shane Tharp direcciones. sería justo para mí.” Eso es el relati- En esencia, la moral tiene que asistir a la Misa. meditación en los pasajes de su- El papa animó a la gente a que un escalón para el cielo, para la vida En su comentario de las lecturas de frimiento y gozo de la vida de Jesús y rezaran con la Virgen María y que eterna”, dijo. Yo paso mucho tiempo en Internet. Al ir acabando este Año de la vismo moral. En lugar de insistir en ver con las direcciones, en este caso, Eso sí, no en una cantidad excesiva, Fe, debemos comenzar a hacer un que una acción es correcta o incorrec- ¿cómo puedo evitar el mal y hacer y desde luego no paso tiempo en los balance de lo que hemos ganado ta, el relativista moral quiere las dos el bien? Nos enfrentamos a diario Ministerio de recintos universitarios listo para ayudar a jóvenes universitarios y el trabajo que queda por hacer. cosas — a veces la acción es correcta, barrios malos, si entienden lo que con miles de situaciones que nos Por Laura Dodson dijo Joshua Díaz, presidente de la parroquia. dad a que se den cuenta de que han Hemos llegado al punto en nuestras otras veces no. estoy diciendo, pero una gran parte obligan a escoger entre el bien y el Catholic News Service Unión Católica de Estudiantes de “Tengo grandes deseos de llegar, recibido una preparación adecuada refl e-xiones del catecismo cuando La moralidad no puede funcio- del trabajo que hago para la parro- mal. Usted tiene cuentas que pagar. la Universidad del Estado de la Flo- pero al mismo tiempo tengo algo de para la vida dentro del recinto uni- tenemos que hablar de la moralidad. nar de esa manera porque la moral MELBOURNE, Florida — Muchos quia me lleva de nuevo a Internet. Usted necesita dinero para pagar rida en Tallahassee para el periodo miedo, dijo Forman. “Voy a alojarme versitario y que también mantienen Ahora, reconozco de antemano describe la forma correcta de relacio- estudiantes que llegan a los recintos Recientemente, vi un artículo titula- esas cuentas. ¿Cómo vas a hacer eso? de tiempo del 2012 al 2013. “Sin en el dormitorio de la Universidad y su casa cuando regresen. que esto es a menudo un área difícil narse con Dios y sus expectativas y universitarios del país para iniciar do “Bienvenidos a la clase de 2017.” Usted podría conseguir un trabajo, embargo, como alumnos de primer estoy contento de que me informaron “Servimos de peldaño para que la de navegar. Creo que la mayoría de la manera correcta de relacionarse su carrera de educación superior ex- El artículo trata de todas las cosas el trabajo duro, y luego enviar por ingreso, tenemos la oportunidad de sobre el Ministerio Católico de Re- fe continúe profundizándose cuando nosotros queremos darle la bienveni- con el resto de la raza humana. La perimentarán por primera vez en su que, aunque familiar para los viejos correo el dinero. O usted podría asal- poder conocernos a nosotros mismos, cinto Universitario. Realizan muchas se esté en el recinto universitario”, da a las personas que quieran vivir moral también trasciende el tiempo vida la independencia como adultos. tar un banco. Ambas acciones con- descubrir qué nos gusta: los estudios, actividades atractivas, como la Misa dijo Kniepmann. “Y allí no termi- como yo, los estudiantes de secund- la fe católica, pero nosotros (o por y la cultura. Si bien hay que admitir Y gracias a la organización New- siguen el dinero que necesita, pero los deportes, otras actividades; pero y cena de los miércoles, que tiene un na. Mi esperanza es que cuando los aria de 2017 no tendrán ni idea de lo lo menos, yo) me pongo nervioso en que los graves males morales han man Connection, en cuyo sitio que estamos hablando. sólo uno de ellos es bueno. también tenemos la oportunidad de ambiente familiar, como el grupo que alumnos que acaban de terminar los estos temas. La moral puede ser un manchado otras épocas de la his- electrónico se ofrece ayuda a estu- descubrir nuestra fe y de saber cómo tenemos aquí en la parroquia de la estudios de preparatoria se vayan a Enterrado a mitad del artículo La clase de 2017 no verán dire- tema que provoque divisiones. En toria humana, no podemos hacer diantes para que se relacionen con la hacemos algo propio. El ministerio Ascensión. Va a ser un buen lugar la universidad, dejando este pro- hace un punto que me dio risa. Según cciones impresas, y mucho menos el realidad, la moralidad, por su natu- esa observación a menos que el mal personas que ejercen el ministerio católico del recinto universitario me para encontrar buenas amistades. Mi grama, participen en el ministerio este artículo, la clase de 2017 nunca uso de un atlas de carreteras. Eso no raleza, la moral debe crear divisiones moral en cuestión era tan malo en católico en recintos universitarios en ha ayudado a formarme y presenciar fe católica tiene mucha importancia del recinto universitario pues es quiere decir que nunca se sabe hacia habrán impreso direcciones desde un pues crea dos caminos: un camino del el pasado como lo es ahora. Si no más de 2,000 colegios comunitarios lo importante que es para mí (la fe)”. para mí y estoy ansioso de involu- parte de su vida”. dónde vamos. Nosotros, los vivos, no ordenador, sino que han utilizado los bien y uno del mal camino. En nues- fue tan malo en el pasado como lo de 2 años y universidades de carrera Bobby Forman, que ingresa a la crarme dentro del ministerio católico Hay ahora más de 60 diócesis que teléfonos inteligentes y otros disposi- tros días, con el relativismo moral es ahora, entonces no podemos estar vemos la felicidad eterna de la vida completa, se les hará posible hacer la Universidad Central de la Florida en cuando llegue allá”. les ayudan a los estudiantes a comu- tivos GPS para ir de un lugar a otro. como la premisa básica, la insistencia indignados. No podemos quejarnos y con Cristo, interpretado claramente transición a un vínculo de fe adulta, Orlando, había estado activo dentro El director de ministerio juvenil de nicarse con personas encargadas de Me reí cuando leí esto porque pensé en dos caminos crea un estado de agitar nuestras cabezas en conster- ante nuestros ojos. Eso no quiere incluso antes de que salgan de sus del ministerio juvenil en la parro- la parroquia de la Ascensión, Mark ministerio universitario por medio de que todo el mundo había dejado de choque en las personas promedio, nación por las generaciones igno- decir que nosotros no quisiéramos hogares. quia de la Ascensión en Melbourne, Kniepmann, explicó que la noche de la organización de Newman Connec- obtener sus direcciones de Mapquest católicos o no. Todos tenemos amigos rantes detrás de nosotros. Simple- hacerlo, sólo tienes que seguir las “Muchos de nosotros hemos experi- y le fue presentada la Newman celebración de graduación les ayu- tion. Para las personas interesadas, y otros sitios similares. Yo supuse que dirán: “Bueno, esa acción podría mente debemos sacudir los hombros instrucciones, la vida moral de la mentado la fe tal y como nuestros Connection la noche de celebración da a los recién salidos de la escuela pueden acudir a www.newmancon- que todos sabían dónde obtener ser adecuado para usted, pero no y seguir adelante. Iglesia. padres nos la han transmitido”, de graduación llevada a cabo en la preparatoria que van a ir a universi- nection.com. 14 September 1, 2013 Local Sooner Catholic Sooner Catholic Local September 1, 2013 15 Rediscovered closeness motivates coordinators to share Marriage Encounter Calendar By Tina Korbe Dzurisin The advertisement was for World- couple. SEPTEMBER 7 The Lay Missionaries of Char- 8 Charismatic Healing Mass, day. For more information contact The Sooner Catholic wide Marriage Encounter, a Catholic “The couple who had been married ity, the Secular (Lay) Order of 5:30 p.m. at Ken at (405) 739-0036 or by e-mail at marriage enrichment program. 63 years called us two years after Bev and Rick Feller have been 1 The Secular Franciscan Order Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, at St. Catholic Church, 3901 S.W. 29th OklaPost168@cox .net. “She talked me into going to meet their weekend to say, ‘When we went married for 42 years, but they hold of St. Claire Fraternity meets John the Baptist Catholic Parish, Street, Oklahoma City. For more the registration couple,” Rick said. on the weekend, we didn’t even think hands with as much evident delight at 1:15 p.m. the fi rst Sunday of the Edmond, OK on the 1st and 3rd Sat- information call the Church offi ce at 14 The Benedictine Oblates of as high school sweethearts surrepti- “We were in our 20s and this couple that we would get anything out of it, seemed old to us — they were proba- month at St. Thomas More Church in urday of each month beginning with (405) 685-4806. Red Plains Monastery will meet tiously clasping hands in the hallway but we had such a great time,’” Bev bly in their 30s — but they acted like Norman in the Library. All are wel- Holy Mass at 7:30 am in the Chapel. from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. in Room 125 between classes. said. “They took the communication newlyweds.” come. If you would like to learn how For more information contact Toni 10 Catholic War Veterans (of any As they climb the stairs of the tools home that they learned on the at the Pastoral Center, 7501 NW The witness of that couple was Francis lived plan to attend one of Harrelson, lmc at (405) 341-2199 or war/confl ict) will meet the second Catholic Pastoral Center to attend weekend and she said it helped them Expressway in Oklahoma City. For enough to convince Bev and Rick our meetings. For more information [email protected]. Tuesday of each month in the com- a meeting on the second fl oor, Rick through so many challenges, includ- more information, contact Jenny Fen- they ought to attend a Worldwide call Alice at (405) 473-7680. munity room of St. Ann Retirement grasps the handrail and offers Bev ing their illnesses and transitions ner, (405) 721-0832 or e-mail jenfen@ Marriage Encounter weekend. 7 Project Gabriel Training. Proj- Center at 7 p.m. For more informa- the support of his arm — support she from assisted living to the nursing cox.net, or Sandy Poe, (580) 421-6554 “It was the most amazing thing 6 First Friday Sacred Heart Mass ect Gabriel is a parish based out- tion contact Fr. M. Price Oswalt at sweetly accepts. home. It just kept them bonded to- or e-mail sandrapoe@ymail .com. that ever happened to us,” Bev said. at the Catholic Pastoral Center. reach designed to assist women who (405) 567-3404. In conversation, they exchange gether. It showed us that marriages The Marriage Encounter week- Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament fi nd themselves in a crisis pregnancy. knowing glances, smile warmly into of any length can be enhanced by the end convinced the Fellers they need is at 5:30 p.m. with the Sacrament A training will be held at the Catho- 11 Catholic War Veterans USA 15 Catechetical Sunday one another’s eyes and fi nish each weekend.” not settle for a “ho-hum” marriage. of Reconciliation available prior to lic Pastoral Center, 7501 N.W. Ex- The Oklahoma Memorial Post 168 other’s sentences with an almost other married couples to experience The next Worldwide Marriage Equipped with renewed conviction Mass. Mass is at 7 p.m. For more pressway from 9 to 12 in room 136. will hold their monthly meeting at 7 15 Our Lady of LaVang Mass and guilty eagerness, sometimes then Marriage Encounter for themselves. Encounter weekend in Oklahoma is and sensible communication strate- information please call the Offi ce of For more information and to register, p.m. in the Sunnylane Family Recep- Celebration at Cathedral of Our politely backtracking in the conver- “The closeness that we’ve rediscov- Friday, Sept. 27, to Sunday, Sept. 29. gies, the Fellers began to engage each ered — once you lose that and get it One of two outgrowths of a ministry Family Life at (405) 721-8944. call the Offi ce of Family Life at (405) tion Center located at 3900 SE 29th Lady of Perpetual Help starets at sation to ensure the other had an other — and their children — more back again, you have a strong desire founded in 1952 in Spain by Father 721-8944. St in Del City, every second Wednes- 11:45 a.m. adequate opportunity to speak. intentionally in dialogue. to share it with other couples so they Gabriel Calvo (the other is National It wasn’t always this way, they say. They also began to meet actively can enjoy it, too,” Rick said. Marriage Encounter), the Worldwide When the Fellers had been married with other couples who had also Job Box Unlike Retrouvaille, Marriage En- Marriage Encounter program pro- for just fi ve years — Rick in the mil- been “encountered,” as the Fellers Youth Ministry Coordinator Services is responsible for operations ic social service provider to provide Health Ministry programs (formerly counter is not intended as a remedy motes marriage as a means to live itary, Bev at home with three small say. Shortly thereafter, they became St. Monica Church, Edmond, seeks management of vocational programs case management services in our Faith Community Nursing). Ap- for couples who are having severe out a sacramental relationship in children in Rapid City, S.D. — they a presenting couple for Marriage a full-time Youth Ministry Coordi- for developmentally disabled adults. Long Term Recovery Disaster Case plicants must be a graduate of an marital problems, the Fellers clarify. the service of others. Each weekend had allowed the details of day-to- Encounter. nator. Position requires night and This includes providing adequate Management program. Requires a accredited school or college with a day living to overwhelm any oppor- When they moved to Oklahoma in They say it’s also best enjoyed by features the testimonies of at least weekend work as well as appropriate staffi ng, marketing, budgeting, degree in social work or a related degree in Nursing or related fi eld (i.e. tunities they might have had for the 1980s (“before the Internet!”), couples who’ve been married long three presenting couples and is also offi ce hours as agreed upon with the inventory & supply management fi eld and the ability to establish and Community Health/Public Health). meaningful eye contact or purposeful they were unsure how to remain con- enough to experience some disillu- guided by a priest. Pastor. Degree or certifi cation in and oversight of retail operations. maintain relationships with local Experience in program development conversation. nected with the Marriage Encounter sionment in their marriage, although Tina Korbe Dzurisin is the director youth ministry or theology and mini- Additionally, the Director must be community service providers. is required. The successful candidate “We didn’t think there was any- movement. past attendees have included new- of communications for the Archdio- mum of one year experience in youth cognizant of regulatory compliance Interested applicants should submit will possess excellent verbal and thing wrong with our marriage,” “Without the support of other cou- lyweds, as well as a 63-year-married cese of Oklahoma City. ministry is preferred. Send resumes for State Use Programs & Develop- resumes to Human Resources, Catho- written communication skills; have Bev said. “We just thought we were ples, we let our progress lapse,” Bev together with at least two reference mental Disabilities Service Division lic Charities, 1501 N. Classen Bou- a working knowledge of the commu- normal.” said. letters to: Rev. Stephen Hamilton, (DDSD) guidelines. If interested, levard, Oklahoma City, OK, 73106. nities, parishes and Archdiocesan Added Rick: “We had just accepted In 2006, they learned of a Marriage If You Go St. Monica Church, 2001 N. Western email your resume to HR@cfl inc.org For more information please contact: services; must be a practicing Cath- that, after a certain number of years, Encounter weekend in Oklahoma. In Ave., Edmond, OK 73012. for further consideration. [email protected] olic engaged in continuing spiritual Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend it just gets dull and boring.” 2007, they attended the retreat not formation. Send cover letter, resume When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 27, to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29 Still, the seemingly inevitable as presenters but as a couple again Director of Vocational Services Temporary Full Time Disaster Faith Community Health Minis- and salary history to Human Re- Where: Catholic Pastoral Center, 7501 Northwest Expressway, Okla- stress of marriage and motherhood seeking to revitalize their marriage. The Center of Family Love is Case Managers -4 Positions try Coordinator sources, 1501 N. Classen Blvd, OKC, homa City was enough to render an unexpected The Fellers’ “anniversary weekend” seeking a Director of Vocational Catholic Charities has an opportu- Catholic Charities seeks a coor- 73106. or nlargent@catholiccharitie- radio ad attractive to Bev. Why: To enhance communication, renew commitment, rekindle ro- was just as meaningful as their fi rst Services.The Director of Vocational nity exists for a creative and energet- dinator for the Faith Community sok.org. EOE “I heard a radio announcement as Marriage Encounter experience. mance and learn the skills necessary to stay close as a married couple I was going shopping,” Bev said. “It “We are now retired and we do through life’s ups and downs pretty much said, ‘Spend the week- more Marriage Encounter than any- To secure a space: Space is limited, so early application is advisable. end away from the kids, the chores thing else,” Bev said. The application fee is $100 a couple. To apply, visit meoklahoma.org. and all the family stress to focus on The Fellers are the weekend coor- For more information, contact Bev and Rick Feller at (405) 323-9119 or your spouse.’ I wrote down the adver- dinators for Worldwide Marriage En- [email protected]. tised phone number, came home and counter in the Archdiocese of Oklaho- talked to Rick.” ma City — and they’re keen to invite Briefs South Region ACCW to host retreat To learn more about 40 Days for Life, visit “In centuries past, Church leaders and wealthy Father Robert Wood will lead “Lift High the www.40daysforlife.com. For information about the individuals have always been the great patrons of Cross,” a women’s retreat, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 Oklahoma City campign, visit www.40daysforlife. artistic genius,” noted Mysterium Records pres- p.m. Sept. 14 at Holy Family Catholic Church in com/oklahomacity. For assistance or for more ident Jimmy Mitchell, the campaign’s architect. Lawton. The event will feature a presentation by information, contact Debby Krisch at dmkrisch@ “More recently, record labels could make or break Father Wood, a discussion of praying with icons, hotmail.com. an artist. Now, it’s ordinary music fans who can the sacrament of reconciliation and a Divine Mer- discover new talent through social media and cy chaplet. The cost is $20.00 and the deadline to Birth Choice Celebration of Life Walk to support artists they can believe in through Kick- register is Sept. 3. benefi t Rose Home starter and other crowd-funding models. Because Birth Choice of Oklahoma, Inc., announces the Forty Days for Life begins Sept. 25 21st annual Celebration of Life Walk to benefi t of our partnership with incredibly talented artists, The national 40 Days for Life campaign begins Rose Home, a shelter for pregnant women who who are also faithfully Catholic, this campaign is Sept. 25 through Nov. 3. In Oklahoma City, the have no other place to stay in the community a huge stride for the new evangelization.” pro-life community will join together for a 40 Days during their pregnancy and time of recovery. The for Life kickoff event at 7 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Con- walk is slated for 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, at the McGuinness class of 1963 50-year reunion nor Center adjacent to the Cathedral of Our Lady Myriad Botanical Gardens in downtown Oklaho- The Bishop McGuinness high school class of of Perpetual Help. The kickoff rally will feature ma City. Registration begins at 1 p.m. the same 1963 will host its 50-year reunion Oct. 18 to Oct. remarks from Archbishop Paul Coakley, Heidi Wil- day. Those who register with a minimum of $25.00 19. The reunion will begin with a tour of the high burn of the Baptist Convention and Karen Herzog in donations will be registered for a chance to school at 4:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18, and continue from “And Then There Were None.” win an iPad. Those who register with a minimum that evening with a tailgate and the homecom- The event begins 40 days of prayer and fast- of $100.00 in donations will also receive a free ing football game. Saturday, Oct. 19, will feature ing, with special attention to prayer in the public T-shirt. For more information or to register go to a round of golf, a three-mile fun walk, lunch at right-of-way outside an abortion clinic in Okla- www.watchfortheunborn.org. Johnnie’s and dinner at the Waterford Marriott homa City, as well as various types of community Hotel. The Waterford will be the reunion head- outreach. Catholic artists inspire youth at Epiphany Forty Days for Life is a peaceful, intensive pro- The Love Good Music campaign — featuring quarters and members of the class may reserve life campaign that focuses on 40 days of prayer the musical stylings of Kevin Heider, Chris Cole a room at a special rate before Sept. 27. The cost and fasting, 40 days of peaceful vigil at abortion and Knight — recently stopped at Church of the reunion is $85.00 for a spouse or guest. facilities and 40 days of grassroots educational of the Epiphany in Oklahoma City to encourage For more information, visit www.BMCHS.org, or outreach. All prayer vigil participants are asked a new generation of patrons of the arts to impact contact reunion chairs Elaine Bachle Dodson at to sign a statement of peace, pledging to conduct the culture by supporting truth, goodness and [email protected] or Carol O’Reilly Mess- themselves in a Christ-like manner at all times. beauty in the form of music. er at [email protected]. 16 September 1, 2013 Local Sooner Catholic Organist celebrates 75 years at Saint By J.E. Helm from 1947 to 1972. When he died, she still had For the Sooner Catholic four children at home to raise. The youngest was just two months old. She took over the farm and OKEENE, Okla. — Betty Osmus is no ordinary carried on. Today, she still plants a big garden organist. She has played at Saint Anthony parish with tomatoes, cucumbers and other vegetables, in Okeene for 70 years this month, and she says she has “never had an organ lesson in (her) life.” and she is planting four fruit trees so she can add She says she can play chords and read “the top jellies and preserves to her home-canned larder. line” of the music. She calls the notes “lollipops.” No beans, though; she says they’re “too close to the Her grandmother taught her to play the piano ground.” At 86, she still mows her own yard. when Osmus was fi ve years old, and she is essen- Father Jaroslaw Topolewski talked about service tially self-taught on the organ. to the church in homily, something Osmus exem- Sunday Aug. 25, she played for the 10:30 a.m. plifi es. Father Topolewski says Osmus is “incred- Mass and directed the choir. The entrance hymn ible. She knows how to pull people together.” He was appropriately “Here I Am Lord (I Come to thinks she can remember every single pastor who Do Your Will).” The offertory was an arrange- has served Saint Anthony’s parish. ment of the Latin hymn “Regina Coeli.” For the A wonderful reception in the church hall fol- fi nal hymn, Osmus was accompanied by a family lowed Mass. The buffet luncheon featured fi ve dif- ensemble of three guitars, a violin and a fl ute. The ferent pickles made by Osmus. All the sandwich- whole church joined in on a rousing version of es, side dishes, cakes and cookies were prepared by “Just a Closer Walk with Thee,” a piece that could family and parish members. be called Osmus’ theme song. Sara Nicholson presented her grandmother About 120 friends and family members fi lled the with an acrylic portrait of Osmus at the organ. Betty Osmus at the organ at St. Anthony of Padua, church. All nine of Osmus’ sons and daughters Daughter Sherry Damron offered a framed papal Okeene. were in attendance, coming from Hennessey, Dun- blessing. A gift bouquet graced the cake table, and can and Fairview. One daughter came from Texas. Osmus wore a corsage. Someone remarked that it “the most wonderful person I know.” Also on hand Osmus has 22 grandchildren and 26 was like a wedding reception, and Osmus respond- were Florine Seely and Laurie Moeder of Kansas great-grandchildren with the fi rst three great, ed that it ought to be because “I might as well be who attended the parish school here with Osmus great grandchildren “on the way.” married to that organ.” back in the 1940s. This is one strong Catholic woman. Betty Osmus Osmus’ older sister Edwardeen Garrison, the Just to keep busy, Osmus is active in the parish was married to Bill Osmus, an Okeene farmer, matriarch of the family, described Betty simply as altar society and is a past president. She also vol- unteers each week in the parish thrift store. She says you don’t fi nd time; you make time. Parishioner Pete Eischen says that Betty is “one of a kind. She is as reliable as the sun coming up.” He says that he doesn’t believe she has ever missed a Sunday. As for the day’s celebration, he says “Betty deserves all of this.” Daughter Betty Jo Cayot, one of the main or- ganizers of the anniversary celebration, says her mother has played for countless weddings and funerals, including the funerals of her friends. “I don’t know how she does it,” said Cayot. Many people brought cards for Osmus, and one of them read “Congratulations on your retire- ment.” Osmus objected, “But I’m not retiring!” J.E. Helm is a freelance writer for the Sooner Accompanying Betty Osmus at the organ is John O’Neill on guitar and grandsons Clint Osmus and Eric Cayot on Catholic and an adjunct English professor at sev- guitar. The fl ute is played by granddaughter Sara Nicholson with great-granddaughter Suzie Bozer on the violin. eral area colleges. OU campus minister on impact of FOCUS: Sacrament attendance is up Impacted students: Relearning the faith is “so beautiful” By Anamaría Scaperlanda Biddick say at Mass—it was so beautiful I started crying For the Sooner Catholic and then I just wanted to know everything.” As another school year begins, FOCUS—Fellow- Gosman deepened her study of the faith, passing ship of Catholic University Students—returns to around books with the other members of her Bible study. the University of Oklahoma. This year will be the “FOCUS reaches out particularly to those stu- Gibson was altered during a Spring Break Seek second year for the group to work with Campus dents who are fallen-away Catholics,” Snow added, Conference hosted by FOCUS in Orlando. “That Ministry at Saint Thomas More University Parish, “so we have seen many students who are just now was the turning point for me in my faith—it was where they expanded the outreach of the program. reacquainting themselves with their faith and are This year, team leader Drew Maly from Wichita excited to become involved.” not only about Bible study but evangelization: will return. He will be joined by new missionaries Two students who have become more involved what it means to show the love of Christ,” Gibson Cari Devlin, Kaitlyn Kelsch and Stephen Hill. at Saint Thomas More because of FOCUS are OU said. Father Goins, pastor of Saint Thomas More, seniors Jocelyn Gosman and Hilary Gibson. Both The week-long conference with speakers and said, “They have been transformative because they became involved through one of FOCUS’s many workshops was to prepare those who are deepen- have taken our campus ministry program that Bible studies. ing their faith, the call to evangelization and “how was really good and they have taken it to the next Gosman described the fi rst fi ve-week study of to equip you for that,” Gibson added. level. They really have been a blessing.” the Gospels. “It was a Gospel presentation, show- For Maly, the new evangelization is at the heart Erin Snow, campus minister, described the fruit ing how God created us for relationship and God of his work as a FOCUS missionary. “If we can of their work. has a purpose for us.” reach out to these students, train and model how “We have seen an increase in Mass and Confes- Maly elaborated on the Bible study, “We choose to share the love of Christ, this can have a drastic sion attendance, as well as in our RCIA program,” certain passages that tell the story of Jesus effect later.” Snow said. “There are lots of students who want to Christ—that Christ wants to be in relationship Anamaría Scaperlanda Biddick is a freelance be confi rmed.” with us, but this relationship is broken by sin. writer and math tutor living in Oklahoma City. This increase is due, in part, to the methods of But God is so merciful and gives us an opportunity the missionaries. to live in that relationship.” “As you know, the traditional model is that they For both Gosman and Gibson, they were drawn To support the efforts of FOCUS at the open the doors and wait for them to come to us. in by study of the Gospels, but the transformation University of Oklahoma, contact Saint With FOCUS, we are able to go out and fi nd the came later. Thomas More at (405) 321-0990 or visit students, engage them, mentor them and bring “The point where I really fell in love,” Gosman their website at www.focus.org. them back into parish life,” Father Goins said. said, “was when we went over why we say what we