A mon- est exas strance, W T like the one at right will arrive in San PERMIT NO. 44

SAN ANGELO, TX Angelo in NONPROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID US POSTAGE August. Story, ANGELUS Page 7 Serving the of San Angelo, Texas Volume XXVI, No. 7 July 2005 Midland physician appointed to NRB Rhode becomes first Texan appointed to national Catholic governing body PO BOX 1829 BOX PO By Jimmy Patterson appointed to the National Review Board by the vote of confidence shown to me

Editor for the Protection of Children and Young by this appointment,” Rhode told the

DIOCESE OF SAN ANGELO SAN OF DIOCESE ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED SERVICE ADDRESS SAN ANGELO ANGELO TX SAN 76902-1829 West Texas Angelus People. Midland Reporter-Telegram in June. The appointment was confirmed in June “We would love to see the problem (of World View MIDLAND. Three years after being by the Rev. William Skylstad, Bishop of sexual abuse) go away. Like any other Percent of adults in these countries who asked to serve on Bishop Michael Spokane, Wash., and president of the U.S. crime you do the best you can to prevent say religion is important in their lives Pfeifer’s Diocesan Review Board, Conference of Catholic Bishops. MEXICO 86 Please See RHODE/7 Rhode Midland doctor Joseph Rhode was “I am very appreciative and humbled 84 ITALY 80 CANADA 64 U.S.S.. CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS SOUTH KOREA 63 AUSTRALIA 55 GERMANY 54 Bishops’ conference SPAIN 46 UNITED KINGDOM 43 FRANCE 37 covers much ground, Survey of 1,000 adults in each country taken May 12-26. Sampling error is plus or minus 3 percentage points. Source: AP Photo by Nancy Wiechec/CNS ©2005 CNS Pfeifer says on return By Jimmy Patterson regard to the Americans rank high Editor critical ques- A recent AP/Ipsos poll suggests that reli- West Texas Angelus tion of provid- gious attitudes of citizens in the United ing protection States are stronger than religious attitudes of For the fourth consecutive year, for children their Western European counterparts. child sexual abuse and the protec- and young According to the poll, 84 percent of tion of minors were the central top- people from Americans consider religion important in ics of discussion at the U.S. sexual abuse.” their lives. See Story/Page 8 Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Pfeifer said Spring Meeting. the revisions Michael Pfeifer, Bishop of the “did not back away from the zero Bishops from across the Also Inside ... Diocese of San Angelo, said the tolerance,” which had become a hot U.S. convene for their ! Imagine my shock when an associate body’s revision of the charter on media issue. annual spring meeting in walked into my office recently, looked at me, sexual abuse will only serve to The changes, Pfeifer said, will June in Chicago, above. and said, "Catholics aren't Christians." From strengthen the protection of chil- only serve to strengthen policies and At left, bishops Gregory The Editor/Page 2 dren. procedures set forth by the late Aymond, left, of Austin, “What we have learned in the John Paul II, who said that once and David Zubik, of Green ! Geographers say that sailors noticed the past three years since we first pub- guilt has been proved against a cler- Bay, Wisc. stillness of the rising, but not blowing, air lished the charter is that we have gy member accused of sexual near the equator and gave the region the improved upon it, and we pray that it assault, “there is no place in the depressing name “doldrums.” Family life can will be the guiding light for the be like that. Bill and Monica Dodds on church in the United States with See USCCB/7 Related Stories/Page 6 Your Family/Page 9 Elsewhere ... From The Bishop’s Desk Diocesan Briefs ...... 2 Del Escritoria del Obispo ...... 3 What is the Eucharist? What is Perpetual Adoration? Bishop Pfeifer’s August Schedule . . . . .3 Five Minutes With Bob Leibrecht ...... 4 By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI the Eucharist, and what is Perpetual The Traditions of the Church ...... 4 En espanol/Pagina 3 Adoration, taken from a recent bulletin USCCB Conference in Chicago ...... 6 In this year dedicated to the Eucharist. Second, our Holy Father is of the Missionaries of the Blessed Monstrance to Arrive in San Angelo . . . .7 Eucharist, our Holy Father has asked encouraging all Catholics throughout the Sacrament. NFP Seminar at Retreat Center ...... 7 that we focus our attention on two major world to take part in the greatest of all National News ...... 8 goals. First, our Holy Father is asking What is the Eucharist? Family/Youth ...... 9 devotions: Eucharistic Adoration. From The Easy Chair ...... 9 that we come to a new appreciation of To help us better understand these "At the Last Supper, on the night he DIOCE-Scenes ...... 10 the Eucharist, the Mass, and that we two major goals of the Year of the was betrayed, our Savior instituted the The Back Page ...... 12 renew our commitment to be faithful to Eucharist, I present for your reflection Bishop Pfeifer be present for the celebration of the some brief statements as regards what is See EUCHARIST/11 Page 2 July 2005 The Angelus The West Texas From the Editor Angelus Official Newspaper of the As a matter of fact Catholics are Christians Diocese of San Angelo, Texas POSTMASTER: Send all address y hometown prides itself on its ecu- little words that work together to tear apart that taught that Jesus wasn't the Savior either.) changes to: menism. And for good reason. We any notion that we are making any progress. Perhaps it's churches like hers that have WEST TEXAS ANGELUS Mhave good people doing great work Feelings like this are not confined to Midland. earned the bad reputation for all of the good P.O. Box 1829 together, from efforts as simple as the Midland Perceptions that "Catholics are not Catholic churches. Perhaps it is churches like SAN ANGELO, TX 76902-1829 Association of Churches Christians," sadly, exist throughout the coun- hers where nuns rap students over the knuck- ______and ministerial alliance, try. But if you'll allow me a few moments of les with their rulers. But I'm here to tell you both with representatives your time, I'd like to right what is simply that whatever church this person grew up in is Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer,OMI from many denomina- wrong. not representative of the greater Church. Publisher tions, to the elaborate The allegations didn't just stop with those I tried to answer for her each charge from nondenominational proj- three words. There was the supposed substan- merely a parishioner's perspective, a layman's Jimmy Patterson ects of Christmas in tiation, that the accuser was by golly look with no doctrine quoted, only from what Director of Communications Action, the Faces of right. And gems such as these were thrown I have learned from sitting in a pew and help- Editor Children and Rock The down: ing out here and there throughout the years. Desert, and humanitarian "Catholics are discouraged from reading the Kenneth Grimm and mission work being Bible." "Catholics are discouraged from reading San Angelo Standard Times done in Uganda, the Patterson "Catholics don't believe Christ died for our the Bible." Production Manager Sudan and elsewhere. sins and is not the Savior." Like most of her allegations, I have no idea Those are just a few examples of what people "Catholics worship Mary." where this comes from. Apparently it's Member here have done by working together. "Catholics don't pray to God." because Catholics don't bring their Bibles to Catholic News Service So with all this togetherness, all this work- "Catholics believe the only way you con- Mass with them. That's because we have these Catholic Press Association ing together for the common good for a com- fess your sin is through a priest." books called missals. Four readings every Texas Catholic News mon end result -- to bring good and to enter Whoa, bubba! week, or every DAY -- and all of them from into the Kingdom of Heaven -- imagine my And Wow! the Bible. That's a lot of Bible reading for a shock when a couple of months ago an associ- The charges were staggering and, as it turns faith that discourages its parishioners from Published Monthly and delivered to all ate walked into my office, looked at me, and out, based almost totally and solely in igno- reading the Bible. Oh, and a lot of weekly registered parishioners in the Diocese said, "Catholics aren't Christians." rance. The person doing the leveling said she bulletins print the daily read- of San Angelo. Catholics aren't Christians. grew up in a Catholic church in the northeast ings. My guess is that's so the faithful can pick Three little words working together to and said that's what she was taught. Not sur- up their Bibles at home and read the passages Subscription rate for all others: destroy any warm and fuzzy ecumenical feel- prisingly, she has fallen away from the church. every day. $10 per year ings I might have been holding close. Three (I don't believe I'd go to a Christian church (Please See PATTERSON/11)

THIRD CLASS POSTAGE PAID AT SAN ANGELO, TEXAS DIOCESAN BRIEFS

Printed by the Blessed Tekakwitha Fr. Fabian celebration Christ the King, July 14-17. Seminar, CRKC (see Story, Pg. 7) Men's English at Christ the SAN ANGELO. Bishop Michael August San Angelo Standard Times CHRISTOVAL. Fr. Fabian King, August 11-14. Pfeifer has asked all Catholics to 5 -- Ruben Covos Orientation to A Scripps-Howard Company Maria Rosette, O. Women's Spanish St. Mary's in be mindful of the Feast Day for the diaconate, St. Mary, Brownwood, 7 Carmelite Prior, San Angelo October 6-9. Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha. A letter p.m. Submissions: will celebrate his Men's Spanish at St. Francis in sent to all U.S. bishops by 10 -- Ariel Lagunailla’s Ordination 25th year of ordi- Abilene, November 10-13. Story suggestions, calendar items, Cardinals William H. Keeler, to diaconate, Sacred Heart, Abilene, nation Monday, For more information on these briefs and all other Edward Egan and Justin Rigali ask 7 p.m. August 15, at Cursillos, they can contact: submissions should be emailed to that the Blessed Kateri’s Feast 11-14 -- Men’s Cursillo, CKRC 10:30 a.m. at the en Espanol, Raul Castenada, [email protected]. Day, July 14, will be used to bring 11- Priest’s Pension Plan Mtg, 11 Mount Carmel 432-634-8357 the cause to the attention of the a.m., Pastoral Center Hermitage, 7637 or email: [email protected] people to offer prayers for her can- Fr. Fabian 15 -- Feast of Assumption, DOSA Photos should be sent in jpeg format. Allen Lane, in English, Joey Light, 325-695- onization. Kateri was persecuted Offices Closed. Christoval. Fr. Fabian invites all to 0503. Email: jlight for abandoning her ancestral 25 -- Presbyteral Council Meeting, Letters to the editor are welcomed, and the celebration. @wylie.esc14.net. Native American beliefs and Pastoral Center, 11 a.m. should be emailed to escaped to a Christian village in Loraine Fesitval [email protected]. Canada. She died at 24 and in her St. Margaret’s LORAINE. St. Joseph's Necrology-July Letters to the editor are printed at the short life between her conversion Fall Festival discretion of the editor and identities of and death became known for her Catholic Church will host its The Necrology consists of the writer are subject to exemplary Christian life, marked annual festival, 10 a.m.-11 p.m., SAN ANGELO. St. Margaret’s priests and deacons who have Fall Festival is scheduled for died since the diocese was verification. Please include name, by prayer, penance and devotion July 23, 2005. The fun will include food, games and live August 14, 2005 at the Knights of formed. Please pray for them (year address and phone number when sub- to the Holy Eucharist and the music and proceeds will benefit Columbus Hall. A BBQ brisket din- of death listed in parenthesis): mitting letters. Blessed Virgin. She is the only Native the parish. The festival and ner will be featured. First prize raf- 2--Rev. Bernard Deagan C.M. American to be a candidate for church are located at 419 S. fle drawing will be a 4-wheeler. (2001) canonization in the Church’s histo- Hinson St, in Loraine. Arts and crafts and an auction will 2--Deacon Floyd Fraksen (1992) ry. She was proclaimed Blessed in also be featured. 4--Rev. Msgr. Charles Dvorak June of 1980 by Pope John Paul (1963) II. Cursillo Schedule Diocesan Calendar 10--Rev. Emil J. Gerlich (1969) To learn more about Blessed The Cursillo for the remainder of 19--Rev. Msgr. Andrew Marthale July (1984) Kateri, contact the Bureau of 2005 is: 14-17 -- Women’s Cursillo, Catholic Indian Missions, 2012 H Men's Spanish Cursillo at St. 22--Bishop Thomas J. Drury (1992) Christ the King Retreat Center. 26--Deacon Jose Rosales (2000) St., NW; Washington, DC, 20006. Agnes, June 16-19. 29 -- Natural Family Planning Women's English Cursillo at 26--Deacon Abel Campos (2002) The Angelus July 2005 Page 3 VIEWPOINTS

BISHOP PFEIFER’S SCHEDULE ‘What you do for others ...’ AUGUST 2005 By Sister Marie Malachy the time spent within the walls. One Griffin, O.P. Related Stories/4 "room" was occupied by seven men. Related Photos/5 It was make-shift, dark, incredibly August 3 Michael Hall, a meticulously congested, hot, humid, and like the San Angelo -- Diocesan Pastoral Center Meeting of punishment did not match the dressed middle aged man, intro- entire premise, had a dirt floor. A Cursillo and Walk to Emmaus groups at 11:00 a.m. duced himself in a mellifluous offense. Gang members, murderers, bench and a chair were quickly island voice, as the library supervi- and petty thieves; blue collar, white offered to the guests. The occupants August 4 sor. He explained various offerings collar and no collar at all criminals were friendly and respectful; they San Angelo – Lunch with Priests of the San Angelo of the small, relatively quiet, but moved freely within the prison seemed to enjoy visiting. As it Deanery at 12:00 noon at China Gardens walls as their guards patrolled the hot and humid refuge. As he spoke, turned out, the seven were "lucky August 5 outside perimeter. ones." Another room held 350 vacu- several young men looked up from Brownwood, St. Mary – Diaconal Ordination of Ruben their law research to stare at the Ministry to the incarcerated was um-packed men. visitors. When asked how long he "hit and miss" in our sister diocese No uniforms are required so the Covos at 6:30 p.m. had been involved in this ministry, until Bishop Angel Garachana, availability or non-availability of August 7 C.M.F. sought out and hired Mr. Hall answered, "Five and a half personal money is easily seen; Merkel, Our Mother of Mercy – Closing of Forty Hours Virginia Alfaro, who was our guide, hence Mr. Hall's impeccable attire. years." To an inquiry about how he and Mass at 10:30 a.m. came to assist his sisters and broth- to coordinate this essential pastoral Additionally, the Diocesan ers he simply said, "Fraud, grand ministry. The Diocese of San Pedro Pastoral for Prisons has created a August 8 fraud." Sula organized the library, provided sewing module, candle making/arts Rankin, St. Thomas – Meet with Pastor, Pastoral and The San Angelo Diocesan resources, and Mr. Hall was chosen and crafts module, a space for liter- as director. He is there to assist Finance Councils at 7:00 p.m. Partnership Team was in the San acy classes, and a bakery, where we August 10 Pedro Sula, Honduras, penitentiary prisoners with the legalities of their were invited to sit, relax, and enjoy that houses 2,000 prisoners, 70 of cases, provide general interest read- delicious homemade cake and a Abilene, Sacred Heart – Diaconal Ordination of Ariel whom are women. ing, and offer suggestions on a wide cool drink while the aroma of bak- Lagunilla at 7:00 p.m. Having completed a security range of religious themes which ing cookies and the added heat of August 11 include spirituality, theology, and the ovens competed for our atten- check and turned in either a pass- San Angelo, Diocesan Pastoral Center – Priests port or driver's license, we were Sacred Scripture. tion. guided through what Dante would Seeing two of the prison dormi- Personnel Board meeting at 1:00 p.m.; call the Inferno. However, here the tories was the most difficult part of See TEAM/8 Christ the King Retreat Center – Speak at Mens’ English Cursillo at 9:35 p.m. August 13-14 Del Escritorio del Obispo Oklahoma City – Centennial of the Diocese of Oklahoma August 15 Que es la Eucaristia? Christoval – 25th Priestly Anniversary of Father Fabian Rosette, O.Carm.. at 10:30 a.m. por el Obispo Miguel Eucaristía, y que es Adoración El Santo Padre Juan Pablo II en August 16 Pfeifer, OMI Perpetua, tomadas de un boletín su primera carta encíclica El San Angelo, St. Margaret’s – 6:30 pm. Receive reciente de los Misioneros del Redentor del Hombre dice que la Traveling Monstrance and Mass Sagrado Sacramento. adoración Eucarística es la En este Año dedicado a August 17 la Eucaristía, nuestro Santo Padre obligación más esencial en la nos ha pedido que enfoquemos ¿QUÉ ES LA EUCARISTÍA? vida del cristiano y que la cele- San Angelo, Diocesan Pastoral Center – Meeting of nuestra atención en dos metas bración litúrgica de la Eucaristía the Diocesan Liturgy Commission meeting at 10:00 a.m. principales. La Eucaristía es nada menos y el culto privado de la Eucaristía August 19 Primero, nue- que el regalo total y personal de se complementan entre sí. El Midland, Our Lady of Guadalupe – Installation of New stro Santo Jesús mismo a nosotros—Cuerpo, afirma: “Nuestro culto comuni- Pastor, Father Edward de Leon, OMI at 6:30 p.m. Padre está Sangre, Alma y Divinidad—bajo tario en la Misa debe estar ligado August 20 pidiendo que la apariencia de pan y vino en la con nuestro culto personal a Jesús Sheffield, Good Shepherd – 50th Anniversary of Hostia consagrada. En el en la adoración Eucarística a fin lleguemos a Mission – Mass at 2:00 p.m. tener una Santísimo Sacramento Jesús ocul- de que nuestro amor sea comple- nueva apre- ta Su inmensa gloria, belleza y to”. August 21 ciación de la dignidad porque desea que ¿QUÉ ES LA ADORACIÓN Menard, Sacred Heart (and St Theresa, Junction) – Eucaristía, la vayamos a El en fe para amarlo EUCARÍSTICA PERPETUA? Confirmation, 11:15 am. Misa, y que por Sí mismo. August 22-23 renovemos La Adoración Eucarística San Antonio – Renewal of LNC Vows nuestro com- ¿QUÉ ES LA ADORACIÓN Perpetua es sencillamente nuestra August 24 promiso de ser Pfeifer EUCARÍSTICA? respuesta al infinito amor que San Angelo, Diocesan Pastoral Center – Staff Mass at Cristo tiene por nosotros. Porque fieles a estar 8:30 a.m. and Staff Meeting at 11:00 a.m. presente para la celebración de la La Adoración Eucarística es la lo amamos, queremos pasar regu- Eucaristía. Segundo, nuestro expresión de nuestro amor por larmente, una hora santa de August 25 Santo Padre está animando a Jesús, quien, porque nos ama oración silenciosa en Su San Angelo, Diocesan Pastoral Center – Presbyteral todos los Católicos por todo el tanto, nunca se quiere separar de Presencia Eucarística una vez a la Council Meeting at 11:00 a.m. mundo a participar en lo más nosotros y por eso permanece día semana para poder tener exposi- August 27 grande de todas las devociones, y noche con nosotros en el ción permanente del Santísimo Brady, St. Patrick –Closing of Forty Hours, Mass, 6:45 p.m. que es la Adoración Eucarística. Santísimo Sacramento. El dice: Sacramento (siete días a la sem- August 28 Para ayudarnos a entender “He aquí que yo estoy con ana, veinticuatro horas al día). San Angelo, Christ the King Retreat Center – vosotros todos los días”, porque De esta manera, Jesús nunca se mejor estas dos metas del Año de Deacons’ Retreat -9:30 a.m. Meet with Deacons and la Eucaristía, les presento para su “Con amor eterno te he amado: queda solo y la capilla permanece Wives – Mass at 11:00 a.m. reflexión algunas breves reflex- por eso he reservado gracia para siempre abierta para cualquiera iones en cuanto que es la ti.” (Mt. 28, 20; Jr. 31, 3) que desee visitarlo. August 29-31 San Antonio – MACC Meeting Page 4 July 2005 The Angelus

RESTORATIVE JUSTICE Five minutes with Bob Leibrecht, Deacon Promoting common good, Deacon Bob Leibrecht heads up cerated with full access to all sacra- and will be announced soon. the diocese’s Criminal Justice ments along with proper training to Angelus: What is the ministry’s Ministry. The effort is being adequately prepare them. Second, to greatest need at this point? building the public order revamped and have an effective mentoring program Leibrecht: The greatest needs are By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI will see changes to assist ex-offenders in making a pos- funding and volunteer support. A and the need for itive return to society. Third, to grant from the Kenedy Foundation has In the pastoral statement of the U.S. Catholic Bishops, additional vol- develop a restorative justice program been requested, and if received it "Responsibility, Rehabilitation, and Restoration," the Bishops present unteers in com- to reconcile victims, offenders and the would be a big boost to the ministry a synopsis of the staggering statistics relative to crime, conviction, and ing months. community in the midst of crime and, in terms of providing materials, offer- imprisonment across our land. Deacon Bob sat fourth to engage the diocese in social ing training and holding conferences These statistics can seem overwhelming. The predictions of penologists down and spoke justice efforts that will lead to preven- within the diocese. With a shortage of for the future are not encouraging. These challenges alone urge us to a new with us recently. tion and control of crime in the future. volunteers, especially those bilingual, way of thinking and acting. To help bring about these changes in thinking Angelus: What about objectives the level of Catholic teaching is limit- Leibrecht and in acting, there needs to be more emphasis placed on restorative justice. Angelus: for the next 6-12 months? ed. Also, more priests are needed to Justice involves right order. Restorative justice involves the return to The Diocese’s Criminal Justice Leibrecht: The first objective is to offer Mass and confession. right order, effected through the acceptance of responsibility, the assign- Ministry (CJM) was revamped last build parish CJM teams with some Angelus: Given the size of the ment of appropriate punishment, the return or restoration of as many as fall. Briefly tell us what the min- members involved in ministry to the diocese, how can you best imple- possible to the human community, and promotes healing and forgiveness istry’s main focus is in its new form incarcerated, and to encourage those ment the program to ensure wide- in accord with the Gospel. and has it changed significantly in not interested in prison visitation to spread success? In varying degrees, we all share responsibility to promote the common its revamp? help families, ex-offenders and vic- Leibrecht: The CJM council will be good and strengthen a just public order based on restorative justice. I Leibrecht: The CJM efforts are tims in caring for their needs. The sec- very helpful as volunteers around the present here some proposals that will help all people of good will help to fourfold in terms of, first, ministry to ond objective is to kick start the diocese begin to share ideas and mate- develop this vision of restorative justice. The proposals that I share here the incarcerated; second, support for recently established CJM council, rials being used in the various facili- have been taken from the recent letter of the Louisiana Bishops in their the ex-offender and families; third, which will be invaluable in terms of ties. In establishing the parish teams, statement, "Crime, Punishment, and the Common Good”: assistance to victims and their families sharing ideas within the diocese successes, as well as, shortcomings To support the National Victims Bill of Rights and provide resources for and fourth, social justice issues related through a communication network as can be shared as other parishes begin victims of crime and their families (material, spiritual and psychological). to the broad area of criminal justice. well as addressing individual deanery to get involved. A good communica- To provide opportunities for victims and their loved ones who wish to Angelus: What are the CJM’s needs. Also, to increase CJM aware- tion network in the diocese should meet with offenders who are willing to repent and contribute to restora- long-term goals? ness in the diocese, October 15-16, help facilitate broader success if coun- tive healing. Leibrecht: There is a long-term 2005 will become Criminal Justice cil members are willing to share the To offer continuing education and professional training to the dedicat- goal associated with each area of Ministry Sunday. Activities planned good as well as the bad. ed men and women in the corrections system and to ensure that they emphasis. First, to provide the incar- for the weekend are being developed receive adequate wages. To develop juvenile and youthful offender programs which emphasize education, work skills, counseling and, when possible, restoration to the THE TRADITIONS OF THE CHURCH family and community. To promote creative programs which can reduce the readmission rates. Faith-based initiatives ministering to prisoners, staff and families of staff. ‘...and in Jesus Christ, his only son’ Effective drug courts that can oversee the medical treatment of nonvio- Part 2 in a series on the Apostle’s Creed. lent offenders with substance-abuse addictions. Rather than treating addic- Benedict tion as a crime society would then view it as a disease. Treatment would When Catholics begin reciting the Apostle’s Creed include counseling, education, community service and job placement. c. 480-547 at Mass, the words they say are certainly a reflection feast – July 11 More rehabilitative opportunities, alcoholic treatment centers and of their beliefs and their very faith, but often some of mental health treatment facilities. Born to a distinguished Ital- the phrases hold meaning that may not have been Increased opportunities for community service by prisoners. ian family, Benedict studied in Community sentencing, through which courts, rather than incarcerat- considered or thought of in a while. . When he wearied of ing nonviolent offenders, would place the convicted in a setting which “...(We believe) in Jesus Christ, his only son,” the Rome’s worldliness, he lived as allows for work, counseling and education, with the goal of being inte- second article of the Creed, is an example. a hermit. Disciples joined him grated back into society. Sufficient resources need to be allocated to “We take that for granted so to speak and we take and he built 12 monasteries, ensure adequacy of community . it for granted because we have what has been given each for 10 monks. Pressure

Improvement and expansion of prerelease programs to facilitate the us from the Bible and down through the ages from local clerics forced their Crosiers transition from incarceration back into the community. through sacred tradition,” said Bishop Michael move to Monte Cassino, where Housing and work for ex-offenders. Pfeifer. “In the first centuries, there was much dis- they built a monastery and Benedict wrote his famous Realistic review of rehabilitation efforts relative to pardon or parole. cussion whether Jesus Christ was truly the son of Rule. He is believed to have died there shortly after the To provide for the parole of older prisoners and the terminally ill who death of his sister, Scholastica. Pope Paul VI named this have served a significant number of years and no longer pose a threat to God. But we take that for granted now because we have all the experience of history. Some said he was patriarch of Western monasticism patron of Europe, other citizens. and Benedict XVI took his name as pope in 2005. To plan to eliminate housing of out-of-state prisoners and operation of adopted, some denied his divinity. But in those two for-profit prisons. phrases, the church gives profound teaching to clari- SSaintsaints forfor Toodayday © 2005 CNS To reject, in the name of the Gospel of Life, the death penalty as an fy just who Jesus Christ is. “Jesus is the son of God and has always been,” effective and moral way of dealing with crime. There are other more Apologist John Trigilio says the 2nd article is “the Pfeifer said. “It is hard for us to understand, but we humane ways of dealing with these cases. basis for understanding who Jesus is, where he came describe God in three persons: the Father, Son and As we work to bring about an attitude and way of acting in accord from, what he did and why he did it.” with restorative justice, we need to remember that it is the love of Christ Holy Spirit: they were all there and all eternal and Aside from “believe,” the word “Lord” is the key which heals the deepest wounds and transforms our brokenness so that always interacting. It’s hard to understand but we word in the article because it professes his divinity. we all may walk aright in his ways. express in the best way we can what our faith is.” The Angelus July 2005 Page 5 Diocesan partnerships visit San Pedro Sula The Diocesan Partnership Teams representing ¡Ven, espiritu Santo! San Angelo, Tyler and San Pedro Sula, Honduras, met in the Central American country, June 13-16, to assess the activities of the rela- por el Obispo Miguel Pfeifer, OMI tionship and plan for the future. Urged by the apostolic exhortation The Church in America, in Texas and Honduras are Hace unas semanas hemos celebrado la gran fiesta del Espíritu working together in a number of ways. Fr. David Santo, Pentecostés, que nos hace pensar en la presencia y Herrera, of the Diocese of San Angelo, served for inspiración del gran Espíritu de Dios que vive en nosotros por nine months at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish medio del sacramento del bautismo y la confirmación. in Cofradia, Honduras. Many of his friends have visited him there. En el primer Pentecostés leemos, "todos quedaron llenos del Plans for the future involve continue to develop relationships. In September Espíritu Santo, y proclamaban las maravillas de Dios". Cada día, 2006, the partnership will mark its 5th anniversary, with events scheduled in San por medio del amor y los demás dones del Espíritu Santo que Angelo. In July, 10 members of St. Ann’s in Midland will take a mission trip to poseemos, nosotros debemos proclamar las maravillas de Dios Chamelecon, a barrio of San Pedro Sula, to work with fellow Catholics on hous- sobre todo por nuestra manera de vivir. El Espíritu Santo siempre ing projects and to share the faith in prayer and celebration. está dispuesto para ayudarnos con todas las situaciones de nuestra For more information, contact Msgr. Larry Droll, 432.889.7266. vida. Nuestra oración diaria debe de ser - Ven, Espíritu Santo! In top photo: Members of the Partnership Team pose with Bishop Angel Levántanos, por que a veces estamos caidos y llenos de medio. Garachana at the Centro de Capacitacion San Pedro. Left to right, Carlos Paz, Leticia Velasquez, Msgr. Larry Droll, Jorge Paniagya, Sr. Malachy Griffin, Bishop Garachana, Waldina Munday, Deacon Renuévanos, porque a veces estamos encerrados en nosotros mis- Ruben Natera, Guadalupe Natera, Jane Manley and Fr. Bernard Gully. In bottom photo: Students learn the mechanics of mos. refrigeration in a tech school operated by Sacred Heart Parish in Puerto Cortez, Honduras. The school, Centro de El Espíritu de Dios nos ofrece muchos dones para vivir nuestro Integracion Juvenil y Ensenanzas Laborales Federico Ozanam, provides training for marketable jobs. compromiso a Cristo y poner en práctica cada día su evangelio. Ahora comparto un breve reflexión sobre como podemos vivir los Patterson named Director of Communications dones del Espíritu Santo cada día tomados del Misal Mensual de Jimmy Patterson, editor of the ened about so many issues that ful throughout West Texas.” mayo 2005. West Texas Angelus since May, has affect our Church and our world. I Patterson was educated at the been appointed to the position of am very happy that we have a man University of Texas at Arlington, ¡VEN, ESPIRITU SANTO! Director of Communications for the of the caliber of Jimmy Patterson raised in Irving and has lived in Para que nos comuniques el gusto por las cosas de Dios, a las Diocese of San Angelo. Patterson serving in this special ministry, and Midland since 1988. He was que cada día les encontramos menos sabor porque las cosas de assumes the position left vacant by helping me as I continue to try to employed by the Midland Reporter- aquí abajo nos han estragado el paladar (don de Sabiduría). the retirement of Pete Micale. communicate with all the people of Telegram for 12 years, first as a Para que nos comuniques un conocimiento mas profundo de las Patterson also serves as editor of the Diocese.” sports writer, and finally as a reli- verdades de la fe y luego no nos enreden con su predica los que no the Angelus, the diocesan paper In his role as Director of gion editor and columnist. His news- creen en Cristo…(Don de Entendimiento). which serves 18,000 families Communications and Angelus paper work has won him awards Para que nos enseñes a darle a las cosas terrenas su verdadero throughout West Texas. As Director Editor, Patterson will office from from the Associated Press, the Texas valor de medios y no de fines (Don de Ciencia). of Communications, he will oversee Midland, but will travel to San Association of Broadcasters and the Para que nos ayudes a resolver con criterios cristianos los all public relations matters, media Angelo and other points around the Hearst Corporation. pequeños o grandes conflictos de nuestra vida y a saber discernir contacts and questions, marketing diocese as needed. Since leaving the Reporter- lo que está bien y lo que no lo está. …(Don de Consejo). efforts and radio-television contracts. “The opportunity to serve the Telegram in 1999, Patterson has Para que sepamos relacionarnos con Dios como verdadero Padre “Jimmy brings much experience Church in this capacity is, for me, a worked in the non-profit communi- nuestro y sepamos amarlo y confiar en el como verdaderos hijos and professionalism to the ministry distinct privilege as both a Christian ty in Midland, serving as Director suyos, porque a veces creemos equivocadamente que Dios está of communication.” said Bishop and a journalist,” Patterson said. “I of Marketing and Communications esperándonos a la vuelta de la esquina para darnos nuestro mereci- Michael Pfeifer, OMI, in making consider it more a ministry than a with the United Way of Midland do…(Don de Piedad). the appointment. “Jimmy has job. To be entrusted with the respon- and most recently as Director of Para que nos impulses a huir de cualquier cosa que pueda already demonstrated the good sibility of helping disseminate the Public Relations with the Midland ofender a Dios, no porque nos puede mandar al infierno, sino por quality of his work with the recent Church’s message and God’s word Chamber of Commerce. ser el quien es (Don de Temor de Dios). publication of the Angelus. to the West Texas faithful is one that He and his wife Karen have three Para que despiertes en nosotros la audacia que nos impulse al Communication is considered by does me great honor. I look forward children: Jennifer, 19; Kelsey, 16, apostolado con entusiasmo y podamos superar el desaliento, la the Church to be a ministry, and it to working closely with Bishop and James, 11 crítica y el miedo a meternos en líos por defender los derechos de is a way of serving our people, Pfeifer, the diocesan staff and the -- Les Maiman, Dios y de los demás (Don de Fortaleza). keeping them informed and enlight- numerous clergy, religious and faith- Diocese of San Angelo Y LLENANOS DE TUS DONES. St. Lawrence prayer group returns from trip to Morelos, Mexico Submitted by Willie Sosa them.The church where the retreat was held had never had to our friends, neighbors and even our own family. anything like it. The group “Los Redimedos de Cristo” Bottom line: we are the people of God and we need to ST. LAWRENCE. The St. Lawrence Prayer Group has has for several years been playing in many locations get out of our comfort zone and get out and beat the done it again ... This time, we went to Morelos, Mexico, through West Texas and then in May in Morelos. bush. Living in our comfort we do not realize the impor- for a weekend retreat. Talk about praying hard to get A few years ago, I went to Mexico with a Protestant tance of evangelization. There is a great need in the $15,000 worth of musical equipment across the group. Why are Protestants so successful? They are world today -- all around us -- for the word of God. American border and back again. organized and on the move; we’re not. Our priests and People are hungry for something real in their lives. They are It was an incredible weekend of healing and deliver- nuns cannot do it alone -- they don’t have the time and hungry for the life that comes in Christ Jesus. There are some, ance but the best part was that people’s faith was being there are not enough of them. We need to just get out however, that are realizing this and are moving to reach out. renewed, revived and truly becoming a vibrant living there and do it! Don’t wait for a training program or for someone to teach you faith. Talk about a hunger for God. People throughout As much as 90 percent of our growth is directly relat- ... just go do it. Move out in faith! Mexico are hungering for God and there are few to feed ed to the way we take on responsibility for reaching out Page 6 July 2005 The Angelus

U.S.S.. CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS

Highlights of the USCCB Education plays ‘vital role’ in church mission Spring Meeting in Chicago By Jerry Filteau Promgoers from St. Catholic News Service CHICAGO (CNS) — During their June 16- Bede Academy receive 18 spring meeting in Chicago, the U.S. Communion from Conference of Catholic Bishops: CHICAGO — “Catholic schools play a Benedictine Father vital role in the evangelizing mission of the ! Approved a revised “Charter for the Michael Calhoun dur- Protection of Children and Young People.” church,” the U.S. bishops said June 17. ing a late-night Mass in ! Adopted, subject to Vatican approval, a On the second day of their June 16-18 Peru, Ill., in early May. revised version of “Essential Norms” implement- meeting in Chicago as the U.S. Conference of The service has been ing the charter in church law. Catholic Bishops, the nation’s Catholic leaders tradition at the ! Urged continuing support for the nation’s issued a 17-page statement, “Renewing Our Benedictine-run school Catholic elementary and secondary schools. for more than 30 years. ! Called on all Catholics to participate in the Commitment to Catholic Elementary and All couples at the prom church’s mission to proclaim the Gospel to the Secondary Schools in the Third Millennium.” are expected to attend world. Adopted by a vote of 224-10, the statement the Mass, even the ! Adopted the first revised U.S. Program of says, “Our young people are the church of dates who are students Priestly Formation in 13 years, subject to today and tomorrow. It is imperative that we at other schools. (CNS Vatican approval. ! Rejected a proposed 4 percent increase in photo by Nellie provide them with schools ready to address the diocesan assessment for conference activi- Williams). their spiritual, moral and academic needs.” ties in 2006. We are convinced that Catholic schools con- accounting for 48 percent of all students in pri- dents who are not Catholic and who wish to ! Agreed to commit up to $1 million for a study on the causes and context of clergy sexual tinue to be the most effective means available vate schools. attend them.” to the church for the education of children and abuse of minors. “In cities and rural areas, Catholic schools Studies have shown that the ! Tabled action on a series of U.S. adaptations young people. ... We must work with all par- are often the only opportunity for economical- dropout rate is lower than that of other private in the liturgy until a later date. ents so they have the choice of an education ly disadvantaged young people to receive an schools and far below that of public schools, it ! Elected a conference treasurer and doctrinal which no other school can supply — excellent education of quality that speaks to the devel- says. It adds that among those who enter the 12th committee chairman. ! Revamped their committees on sexual abuse academics imparted in the context of Catholic opment of the whole person,” it says. grade in Catholic high school, 99 percent gradu- teaching and practice,” the statement says. and on priorities and plans to give them a The statement notes that according to gov- ate “and 97 percent go on to some form of post- stronger role in the conference. It urges clergy and laity to “market and sup- ernment, Catholic and independent research, secondary education” — rates well above the ! Renewed their commitment to support and port Catholic elementary and secondary schools “Catholic schools make a major impact in average for public or other private high schools. correct one another on full implementation of as one of our church’s primary missions.” closing the achievement gap for poor and On the other hand, the statement notes that their child protection charter. ! Discussed a developing document on lay “Our vision is clear: Our Catholic schools minority students in inner-city environments.” more Catholic schools have closed than have are a vital part of the teaching mission of the ecclesial ministry in preparation for a debate “Wherever possible,” it says, “Catholic opened in the past 15 years. It says there are and vote in November. church,” it says. “The challenges ahead are schools should remain available and accessible currently 7,799 elementary and secondary ! Agreed to prepare a statement opposing use many, but our spirit and will to succeed are in all areas of a diocese for children who are schools, about 10 percent fewer than there of the death penalty, to be voted on in November. strong.” from poor and middle-class families who face were 15 years ago. Catholic schools have suf- ! Agreed that every diocese should sponsor an annual day of prayer for priestly vocations. The statement points out that Catholic major economic challenges. In addition, fered a net enrollment loss of 170,000 students schools form 30 percent of the private schools in ! Marked the centenary of the Catholic Church Catholic schools should be available to stu- since 1990, it says. Extension Society with a Mass and a banquet. the country and have 2.4 million students, Priestly formation program raises bar on theological preparation By Jerry Filteau that area. human. Those dimensions were spelled out by edition significantly expands its discussion of Catholic News Service Bishop John C. Nienstedt of New Ulm, Pope John Paul II in “Pastores Dabo Vobis” (“I admission requirements. Minn., chairman of the bishops’ Committee on Will Give You Shepherds”), a 1992 document One new element is the statement, “Any CHICAGO — After some debate over Priestly Formation and of the subcommittee that on priestly formation issued only months evidence of criminal sexual activity with a tougher academic and formation drafted the fifth edition of the Program of before the fourth edition was adopted. minor or an inclination toward such activity standards, the U.S. bishops June 17 adopted a Priestly Formation, introduced the proposed One of the major insights in the papal docu- disqualifies the applicant from admission.” revised Program of Priestly Formation by an new document to the bishops June 16 and guid- ment was its emphasis on “human formation” The admission norm is reinforced with a overwhelming margin, 231-3. ed the debate before the vote the following day. — the social, psychological, psychosexual, formation norm that says, “Any credible evi- If approved by the Vatican it will replace Like earlier editions, the program will set emotional and relational maturation of the sem- dence in the candidate of a sexual attraction to the fourth edition of the program, which has national norms and principles that must be inarian — as an integrating factor for the spiri- children necessitates an immediate dismissal set the norms for U.S. seminary programs and applied in all U.S. once it is approved tual, intellectual and pastoral formation on from the seminary.” seminary admission policies since 1992. by the Vatican’s Congregation for Catholic which seminary programs traditionally focused. The 1992 program made no specific mention Most of the debate centered on language in Education, which oversees Catholic colleges, Human formation gets stronger, more of homosexuality, but the new one says, “With the new document calling for a minimum of universities and seminaries around the world. detailed treatment in the new document than it regard to the admission of candidates with two years of pre-theology studies for new sem- Bishop Nienstedt said at the Vatican’s request got in 1992. The main section on formation same-sex experiences and/or inclinations, the inarians who got their college degree outside the bishops would seek to make the new docu- for celibacy, for example, came under the guidelines provided by the must be the seminary system. ment effective for a five-year period, anticipat- heading of spiritual formation in 1992, but it followed.” The Vatican has been working for The discussion also drew new attention to a ing that revisions will be in order following an is treated mainly under the human formation some time on developing such guidelines. long-expected Vatican document on the admis- approaching Vatican-supervised visitation of all heading in the new edition. Bishop Nienstedt told the bishops that in earlier sion of homosexually oriented men to seminar- U.S. seminaries to assess how well they form While the 1992 edition focused more on the drafts the writers of the new document tried to ies, raising speculation among journalists at the future priests in celibacy and related areas. theology of celibacy, the new document places spell out cautions and guidelines on the admis- meeting about when that document may appear Like the fourth edition in 1992, the fifth edi- more emphasis on the concrete skills, attitudes, sion of homosexuals, but the Catholic education and what it will say. The discussion arose out tion of the program speaks of four dimensions behaviors and supports needed to build an effec- congregation suggested it would be better sim- of a statement in the new program that U.S. of formation that seminarians must develop tive, mature commitment to a chaste, celibate life. ply to link the U.S. standards to the forthcom- seminaries will follow Vatican guidelines in and integrate in their years of preparation for Besides giving fuller treatment to the differ- ing Vatican policy, which should be applied priesthood: intellectual, pastoral, spiritual and ent types of formation in seminaries, the fifth around the world. The Angelus July 2005 Page 7 Monstrance due in San Angelo for August Mass Tour of vessel will help promote Eucharist, priesthood, religious life By Jimmy Patterson said the Rev. Michael P. Pfeifer, bishop of the said he felt the monstrance will “Create great Editor Diocese of San Angelo. “We will have a Mass to synergy in the country. West Texas Angelus receive it and encourage people to come if they “This will be an opportunity to raise up the can. It will be a way of appreciating the Eucharist minds of the faithful that the need is not only to SAN ANGELO. A monstrance blessed by while building up priests and women religious.” pray but also to create a culture of vocations.” Pope John Paul II will arrive in San Angelo in The monstrance is scheduled to arrive in San “I think this was a splendid idea Pope John August and will hold the Body of Christ during Angelo on August 16, prior to an opening Mass Paul II had,” Pfeifer said. “The priesthood and a special Mass to encourage vocations to the at St. Margaret’s at 6:30 p.m. Previous to its Eucharist are intimately connected and as soon priesthood and religious life. stop in San Angelo, the monstrance will have as I heard the USA Council of Serra Making a year-long trek through the U.S. and made stops in Harrisburg, Penn., and the International was going to be overseeing this, I Canada at dioceses under request of local bish- Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston. made sure San Angelo was on the list.” ops, the monstrance is one of six blessed by Fr. Edward Burns, executive director of the The inaugural stop for the monstrance was at John Paul II. The others are on display similarly Secretariat for Vocations and Priestly the Crypt Church, Basilica of the National Shrine on the five remaining populated continents. Formations for the U.S. Conference of Catholic of the Immaculate Conception, in Washington, A monstrance is a vessel in which the consecrat- Bishops, said the goal of the monstrance’s jour- D.C. ed Host is exposed for the adoration of the faithful. ney through different areas is “to promote The monstrance will remain in San Angelo “Pope John Paul II, in November of 2004, prayer services centered around adoration of the through August 19. came up with idea to bless monstrances at the consecrated host.” Pope Benedict XVI, right, Vatican and send them out to all the continents,” Bishop Blase Cupich, of Rapid City, S.D., with a monstrance, in Rome. St. Ann’s parish in Natural Family Planning seminar highlights awareness week Midland mourns By Rev. Dr. John Gonzales Celebration at 5:30 p.m., the workshop diseases and contraception. Castro, O.M.I will also underscore two sessions directed In his Letter to Families (1994), Pope Director, Christ The King by Mr. John and Mrs. Bonnie Rangel, Mr. John Paul II cited ministry to the family passing of Fr. Cliff Retreat Center Carl and Mrs. Amy Perez and Mrs. Lupe as one of the Church’s essential duties. SAN ANTONIO. Fr. Clifford J. Blackburn, Blackwood, credentialed NFP instructors The family is the place where husband parish priest at Midland’s St. Ann’s from To emphasize the impor- for the Diocese of San Angelo. The get- and wife love each other. It is also the tance of Natural Family together will also include a light supper place where children are welcomed and 1978-1985, died May 5, 2005. He was 85. and conclude at 9 p.m. nurtured. As part of the overall programs Born in New Rochelle, NY, his first Planning (NFP) Week, July 24-30, 2005, Christ the Diocesan NFP programs are the vehi- that the Church provides to support mar- assignment was as a professor at St. King Retreat Center will cles through which the Roman Catholic riage and family life, NFP holds a founda- Anthony . An oblate, in host a symposium entitled Church helps married couples to live out tional place in the diocese. 1963, he was appointed director of St. “NFP As A Lifestyle” on their conjugal love responsibly. These pro- Everyone is welcome to the NFP As A Joseph’s Retreat House, now the Oblate Friday, July 29, 2005. The Department of grams provide classes for the engaged and Lifestyle gathering. Pre-registration is Renewal Center, in San Antonio). Family Life of the Diocese of San Angelo married. In addition, diocesan NFP pro- required by July 25, 2005. For more grams also serve as resources for informa- information, call Margie Schillo at (325) "The impression of Fr. Blackburn shared by will sponsor the event. Beginning with the Eucharistic tion on issues affecting human sexuality 651-5352. our parishioners is that of a gentle and effec- such as infertility, sexually transmitted tive pastor,” said Msgr. Larry Droll, currently parish priest at St. Ann’s. “He gave very per- sonal attention to his people and wise over- RHODE: Appointment historic for Texas Catholics sight to the parish. During his time, the (From 1) and he adds good balance to the NRB. commission a study on the "causes and con- Parlor-Rectory Building was constructed. Rhode’s appointment is the first time a text" of the crisis of sexual abuse of children "I remember Fr. Blackburn as the perfect it and act upon it when it occurs.” Texan has been named to the NRB. and young people in the Catholic Church. gentleman, a fine priest. I visited him in Bishop Pfeifer, who appointed Rhode to his The functions of the National Review Rhode received his M.D. from the University San Antonio two days before he died, Diocesan Review Board in 2002, spoke highly Board are to provide advice and guidance to of Virginia and is currently President of Midland greeted him on behalf of the parishioners, of Rhode’s appointment to the NRB. the USCCB; approve the report on the imple- Family Physicians. He serves as Chairman of and prayed for God's blessing upon him." “I am very proud of him and the appointment mentation of the Charter in each diocese and the Credentials Committee for Midland A Memorial Mass was held for Fr. speaks highly of his qualities and of the service eparchy; formulate recommendations that Memorial Hospital, where he also established Blackburn at St. Ann's Parish on May 9. he gave the Diocesan Review Board. I think he emerge from this report; commission a the hospital's Ethics Committee. He is a Knight Fr. Ray Wilhelm, OMI, joined Msgr. Droll is an outstanding member to have on the board. descriptive study on the "Nature and Scope" in the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre in presiding at the Eucharist. He is a Catholic Christian who is committed and of the problem of sexual abuse of children and of Jerusalem. Dr. Rhode is a father of seven, he brings a lot of experience from his own field young people in the Catholic Church, and married to Caroline Creighton Rhode, M.D. USCCB: Bishops encourage establishment of Day of Prayer for vocations (From 1) While several other abuse-related items “It was probably the longest document accordance with the latest teaching of the were also on the bishops' agenda, they also we dealt with,” Pfeifer said. “It covered the Church.” priesthood for that person.” took time to approve other documents and entire gamut, from when a young man Pfeifer said the urgency of the priest short- Pfeifer said the Catholic Church stands projects, vote on financial matters, discuss should be approached about entering the age in the Church was so deep that the bish- “significantly ahead of any other institution the growing phenomenon of lay ecclesial seminary, his background, and the way we ops established a National Day of Prayer, to as a body addressing this issue.” ministry and celebrate the 100th anniversary would look at and work with that person. be set within individual dioceses. The bishops adopted those documents by of the Catholic Church Extension Society. It was the fifth time revisions had been Next month: A look at the bishops’ dis- respective votes of 229-3 and 228-4. Another item upon which a great amount made by the USCCB to the document per- cussion on the importance of Catholic The revised charter and norms are to of time was spent, Pfeifer said, was priestly taining to priestly formation, something US schools in the 21st century. take effect for five years. formation. bishops do periodically, Pfeifer said “in Catholic News Service contributed to this report. Page 8 July 2005 The Angelus NATIONAL Police officer says raising 4-year-old daughter is his top priority By Theresa Laurence work," he said, and "this is something I really love." Catholic News Service When he's not on the job, Lynch is usually at home taking care of Kaylee. On a recent Monday evening, he watched as NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- When Nashville police officer Pete she brought her stuffed animals and dolls to the living room, Lynch was shot in the line of duty last summer, a lot of quickly abandoning them to find the family cat, then went to thoughts ran through his head. Instead of dwelling on the pain the kitchen for a snack. He smiled, shaking his head at the or worrying that his life might be in danger, he thought of his combination of her short attention span and high energy. "I was little girl. like that when I was her age," he said. "I thought about Kaylee, that I need to make it through, to Until April, when Lynch's father passed away, both his par- get home and see my daughter. She needs her dad," he told the ents lived with him and Kaylee. His mother remains "really Tennessee Register, Nashville diocesan newspaper. great" about filling in the gaps between day care and his work Lynch, a 1992 graduate of Father Ryan High School in schedule, Lynch said. Nashville, is a single father with full custody of his 4-year-old "On the rare occasion I go on a date," he said, his mother daughter. While he loves his job as a uniformed patrol officer, will baby-sit Kaylee. "I think she'd like to see me get out more "if it ever conflicted with her, I'd give it up," he said of Kaylee. often but I'd rather spend that time with Kaylee. I don't want to "She's a lot more important to me than my job." look back and say that I missed all that time with her." Lynch followed in the footsteps of his grandfather and great- Kaylee sees her mother one weekend a month and "she and I grandfather to become a police officer and relishes the variety work pretty well together," Lynch said. "When parents split up and excitement of the job. The six months he was off the they tend to put the kids in the middle but we make decisions streets after being shot above the kneecap last July "was killing Pete Lynch is a Nashville, Tenn., police officer and a single on what's best for her," he said. "I believe in family; it's very me," he said. He recently underwent another surgery, but dad raising his 4-year-old daughter, Kaylee. He has spent a important." planned to be back on full duty in mid-June. lot of extra time with her this past year while recovering With only a handful of friends who have children, Lynch He said he will begin working as a field training officer, from a gunshot wound in his leg. takes his single fatherhood duties in stride. He said he does see teaching rookies "how to put to use on the streets" what they single dads becoming more prominent, as well as more stay-at- learned in the police academy. Lynch is also looking forward to regain the full use of his leg. home dads. Lynch's brother and his wife are trying to adopt a working as a counselor this summer at the Fraternal Order of While Lynch has always known that his job is inherently child and he plans to stay home when that comes through, Police overnight camp for underprivileged children in Mount dangerous, being in several car wrecks and being shot "does Lynch said. Juliet. make you re-evaluate," he said. "I'm not as aggressive as I used "This is not something I had to do," Lynch said about agree- When he was injured last summer, after pursuing a suspect- to be." ing to have full custody of his daughter. But it's what worked ed car thief on foot, doctors originally told Lynch that he However, he has no plans to change careers anytime soon. "I best for him and Kaylee's mother, who has four other children would never be able to run again and would not walk without a don't really see me doing anything else but police work," said at home. significant limp. But "I've already proved that wrong," Lynch Lynch, who works from 10 p.m.-7 a.m. patrolling the East Kaylee, Lynch said, "is by far the best thing that's ever hap- said. He can walk up and down stairs and is determined to Precinct. "It's rare to find someone who loves going into pened to me."

TEAM: San Pedranos Religious attitudes in U.S. differ from Western Europe take to heart sharing in By Mark Basola ! See Graphic/Page 1 Sociologist Dean Hoge of Catholic Catholic News Service University agreed with Tentler that the suffering of imprisoned discrepancy in religious attitudes could WASHINGTON -- A recent AP/Ipsos church opposition. Consequently, Tentler be rooted in the founding of the United (From 3) poll suggests that religious attitudes of added, "you'll find numerous Frenchmen States. citizens in the United States are stronger and Spaniards today who feel in their According to Hoge, "Basic differences Tattoos were seen on many of the than religious attitudes of their Western bones that being religious and being in American culture are found in the prisoners. Removal projects are also good republicans is a contradiction of part of the diocesan outreach. This togeth- European counterparts. Protestant and deist points of view (of er with the learning opportunities, provide According to the poll, 84 percent of terms." the founders). All were anti-aristocratic, the incarcerated with needed skills that Americans consider religion important in In the United States, by contrast, anti-established church and wanted a serve them well during and after their their lives, compared to 37 percent in Tentler observed, "the Revolution had more democratic country. The founders sentences and, in the process, alleviate France, 43 percent in the United the blessing of most clergy," nearly all of did not want a replay of Europe." boredom and its contingent problems. Kingdom and 46 percent in Spain. Only whom were Protestant. In the United One statistic in the AP/Ipsos poll Hidden behind walls advertising Pepsi Mexico (86 percent) and Italy (80 per- States, because one religion never showed that 37 percent of Americans and other Latin American beverage favorites cent) had similar percentages. became associated with the government, thought religious leaders should try to and rife with heat, humidity, crowding, filth, Leslie Tentler, historian at the to be a good citizen and to be religious influence government decisions. While a and lethargy, there are rays of hope, possi- are not mutually exclusive, she noted. bility, care, concern, and love emanating University Center for American Catholic seemingly small percentage, it was high- from the men and women of the Diocese of Studies at The Catholic University of Another reason Tentler gave for strong er than that of any other nation polled. San Pedro Sula who minister here. America in Washington, found the poll religious attitudes in the United States The closest was Italy, where 30 percent This is and is not "faith based incarcer- "interesting but not surprising." that it is an immigrant nation. "For a of respondents said they agreed with that ation." The prison is not run by the Tentler pointed to several reasons for great many immigrants in the U.S., reli- statement; the figure was around 20 per- Catholic Church. Its ministers do not the differences in religious attitudes. gion was the principal means by which cent in most other nations. In France, bribe the inmates with food, cigarettes, "I think it has something to do with the old identity was preserved. Many, in only 12 percent of citizens said they and prizes, or with threats of eternal our long history of a religiously neutral fact, became more rather than less reli- thought religious leaders should influ- damnation. The prisoners are free to par- government," Tentler told Catholic News gious after they emigrated." ence politics. ticipate in diocesan offerings whether or Tentler suggested that the extreme not they accept Jesus, baptism, and salva- Service. Some might find it interesting the tion. Like Jesus, who invited his contem- She noted that both France and Spain, individualism of American culture fac- United States had a percentage on this poraries to follow him, the diocesan team countries where the Catholic Church was tored into the important place religion question given the fact that, according to members also issue an invitation and once the established church of state, now has in Americans' lives. "There aren't Hoge, "the Founding Fathers didn't want "sometimes they use words." (St. Francis rank among the lowest among countries many sources of solidarity in our society. denominations endorsing candidates." of Assisi) The author of the Letter to the where religion is important to the citi- For many Americans, I think, religious Regarding the religious makeup of Hebrews commends the recipients for zens. belief and belonging is a way of creating countries, 26 percent of the poll's respon- sharing "in the sufferings of those in In both countries, republican forms of solidarity -- or at least the illusion of it," dents in the United States said they were prison." Our San Pedrano brothers and she said. sisters have taken the message to heart. government were established despite Catholic. The Angelus July 2005 Page 9 FAMILY/YOUTH From the Easy Chair On lost Boy Scouts, teen drivers and lots of prayer By Jimmy Patterson So we watched, and prayed, and heard the cable news On a seemingly unrelated note, but one that is actually outlets begin speculating that a crime may have been very much on topic, I tend to out when I hand over ike thousands of others, I watched my television committed in the case of Brennan. the keys to my car to our 16-year-old daughter, who anxiously as searchers combed the mountains Our family watched with particular trepidation received her driver s license and has been driving less L northeast of Salt Lake City, because as Brennan remained missing in Utah, our 11- than a month. When she drove me home from work one Utah, looking for 11-year-old Brennan year-old Tenderfoot son was to leave on a 7-day Boy day she plowed clean through a red light in downtown Hawkins. Like others, I watched a Scout summer camp in Oklahoma in less than a week. Midland. A knot tightens slightly in my stomach and feel- mother and father shaking with fear We became particularly worried about sending our son to ings of helplessness and doom can descend on me. and my heart went out to them as they Scout camp -- could there be something amiss at the Not my wife. Karen has an uncanny knack for dealing spoke with TV reporters while their camp that we don t know about that might befall our son with issues that she says are too big for her. son was ... out there somewhere. as had maybe befallen -- according to CNN -- Brennan? It s out of my hands, she will say. If you just give We ve seen it all before: a child And then a simple miracle happened. Brennan stepped it to God, you ll be at peace. goes missing and soon after an out of the woods onto a trail as a searcher drove up on his I must admit giving it to God is not always easy, but Ambert alert is issued. Then, what ATV. And suddenly tragedy turned to triumph and the as she so often is, Karen is right: if you can t take care of happens all too often is that the nation smiled collectively at the news of the boy s rescue. something personally and the outcome of a situation child s body is found. And any parent Patterson When Brennan s mother stood before cameras, she depends on someone else other than you, turning it over to feels the anguish and heartbreak of the parent that has to thanked God. When his uncle talked to the Today Show, God -- as Brennan s family did during his ordeal -- will face life ahead without a part of them -- their child. he said it was the family s faith and belief in Jesus Christ bring a sense of peace and resolve otherwise unattainable. Imagine not only the death of a child, but the fear that that upheld them through the four-day ordeal. You might try it sometime. It s worked wonders for me. the child must endure in the hours after he or she is Karen and I again felt good about letting James go Jimmy Patterson is Director of Communications for abducted or alone, as was Brennan s case. It s a horrible away to camp, although in spite of the Utah rescue we the Diocese of San Angelo. His book of family humor, feeling watching from afar. I cannot imagine experienc- had difficulty dealing with the fact that our son would be “Sticky Doorknobs,” is available at www.amazon.com or ing it firsthand. gone for seven days. www.bn.com. He and his family live in Midland. YOUR FAMILY Battling the summertime family doldrums By Bill and Monica Dodds wonderful nor awful. It s the same old same Services. Catholic News Service old physically, mentally, emotionally, spiri- ! Thank God that you and your family tually. Life has lost its tang, its zip. Ever aren t facing any catastrophes. As we get Geographers say that listless seems to have become the family older, we better realize that a boring day sailors noticed the stillness motto. can be a very good day. of the rising, but not blow- Assuming the root cause is not related to ! Don t lose sight of the fact that, at some ing, air near the equator and clinical depression and this is just a case of future point, these will be the good old gave the region the depress- the blahs, what can you do to help your days. Practice spotting the good now and ing name doldrums. family and yourself? A few suggestions: enjoying it! Family life can be like that. ! Give your life a little shake. Nothing This is the day the Lord has made. It seems such a long monumental. A different cereal in the morn- Rejoice and be glad. time from that good place ing. A different route home from work. A Recreational sailboaters talk about seeing the wind when they re on a you once were. It seems it Bill and Monica new arrangement of the living-room furni- ture. large body of water. Telltale ripples and will take so long before Dodds waves let them know there will be great ! Try a new (or long dormant) physical or you reach the spot where sailing over there. Getting there is you want to be: mental activity. A short walk at lunch. A another story. It s a matter of rowing, ! Ah, the past, when you and your spouse crossword or jigsaw puzzle in the evening. paddling or motoring to reach the spot fell in love; the new job was so exciting and A bike ride or swim on the weekend. where the wind finally fills the sails challenging; the children were little and ! Consider a new devotion or form of and the craft lurches forward. their problems small. prayer. A weekday Mass. The Liturgy of the Sometimes in our family doldrums “ ...and that concludes this episode of ! Ah, the future, when the children will be Hours. A tape or CD of spiritual songs. we re able to see where we want to be ‘Celebrity Talk.’ Now back to your older and demand less of your time so that you ! Do something to help the less fortunate. thanks to the Holy Spirit. But get- Clean out the closets, then make a donation to ting there is another story. More often humdrum lives.” and your spouse can more easily get away than not, God hands us the paddles and together; when you get that promotion, that St. Vinnie s. Spend a few hours helping at the expects us to do some work to make it © 2005 CNS raise, that new house. local food bank. Read up on world issues, and happen. Meanwhile, the days click by, neither make a contribution to Catholic Relief A note from the publisher: ‘We can now choose Christ and his church for ourselves’ I share with you these won- derful inspirational reflections Dear Bishop Pfeifer, mercy--both physical and spiritual: we reached out to others spiritually. from a letter I received from Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have visited the sick in the hospital at Big All year we prayed for the conversion of prison- the Confirmation Class of St. We, the 10th grade class of St Lawrence CCD, Spring. ers on Death Row. During every class, we prayed Lawrence Church in Garden are eager to receive the Holy Sacrament of We have helped to clothe the naked at St. for each prisoner by name, and we also raised City. During their beautiful Confirmation. Vincent de Paul. money to have 3 Masses said for them. Confirmation Mass on May 4, At Baptism, we all received the great virtue of We gave "Barnabas bears" to children in need in Our next project was to adopt an unborn child 2005, I read back to them the love. In the last 2 years, we have seen how the the Midland community. who was in danger of abortion. We prayed for this following parts of their letter. sacrament of Confirmation is making that love We picked up pecans for Deacon Mark Reeh child everyday, asking for the intercession of Our -- Bishop Pfeifer grow. when he was sick. Lady of Guadalupe, the Protector of the unborn. With loving hearts, we have performed works of Our class seemed to show the most love when Please See YOUTH/11 Page 10 July 2005 The Angelus

DIOCE-DIOCE-SCENESSCENES Farm/Rural Life Mass -- June 9, 2005 -- Stanton

2005 Confirmation, Big Lake Mary was crowned by the Blessed Trinity, hence the crowning of the statue of Our Lady, May 22, 2005, by the women of St. Charles parish in Eden on the Solemnity of the Holy More than two hundred attended Trinity (at top and below). Father the Farm/Rural Life Mass, June 9 Romanus Akamike, aka “Father Thank near Stanton. Among them were You Jesus” thanked God for giving us County Judge Corky Blocker and Mary the mother of Jesus as our Mayor Lester Baker, Bishop mother. Michael Pfeifer allowed them to Mary Castanuela and Angie Torres say a few word during the service. Also attending were, three county commission- carried the statue of Our Lady and led ers: Sonny Garza, David Pribyla, and Bobby Owen Kelly, Agriculture Extension the procession into the church (top). Agent Lee Howard, Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Services Leticia Ezell, Below, the women of the church in USDA Farm Service Agent; Nestor Hernandez and representatives from Lenorah Eden. 2005 Confirmation, Crane Four Way Gin and Farmers Coop Association. Also attending were Chamber The commemoration of the crown- President Melissa Villa, Councilman Steven Villa. Some came from St. Lawrence and ing of our Blessed Mother concluded Rowena, and all enjoyed a Bar-B-Q dinner provided by the . In with a pot luck dinner to celebrate the bottom photo, Bishop Pfeifer is photographed with County Judge Charles Blocker gift of motherhood of the Christian and his wife, Sarah, at left, and Mayor Lester Baker and wife, Jim. Mothers of St. Charles Parish.

Fr. Arturo Pestin, left, parish priest at Our Lady of San Juan Catholic Church in Midland, prepares the Eucharist during an outdoor Mass June 4. About 125 members of the 2005 Confirmation, Iraan congregation celebrated Mass at Midland’s Hogan Park before enjoy- ing a church picnic.

Bishop Michael Pfeifer, middle, with Bishop Michael Pfeifer, at right Zhanae Fox, third from left, and Andrae Anise Morales, left, and her grand- in photo above, helps dedicate mother, Ramona Morales, making the the new church at Rankin, seen Vaden, right, lead a group of Vacation Bible announcement of “Serengeti” in the photo at right. School students in singing at St. Elizabeth Vacation Bible School at Our Lady of Ann Seton, in Odessa. Lourdes in Andrews. The Angelus July 2005 Page 11 PATTERSON: We can’t seem to grasp Freedom of Religion

(From 2) her, so too shall we. human who can listen to us is great relief. It makes a person lighter and subsequently closer to God. We've cut back a little on the con- "Catholics don't believe Christ died for our sins and is not the "Catholics don't pray to God." fession requirements, but many Catholics still practice the sacra- Savior." I'm gonna guess that most of our prayers during Mass begin ment regularly. But again, it makes a sinner feel better when he or Well, if that's not Jesus up on the cross in every Catholic church in with the words, "Heavenly Father." The others start out, “In the she can talk about what they've done wrong. Kinda like talking to a the world, who is it? Perhaps this notion is because a lot of times we name of the Father, and the Son and the Holy Spirit.” Perhaps friend about something you wished you hadn't done. It may not be name our churches after Mary or some other worthy saint that spent people think we don't pray to God because we practice something called confession in the non-Catholic world, but people confess his or her life in total worship and devotion to Christ. But again, called intercessory prayer, or we ask saints to pray for us. Saints their sins to other humans every day. every Catholic church you walk into has a crucifix hanging on the were pretty good people. Not infallible, but pretty good folks. I hope that answers any questions. I'm fairly sure the Church wall. It's a requirement handed down by the Vatican. Which brings Mother Teresa is not a saint yet, but likely will be soon. She is the would never publish any of my explanations, but I hope it up another misconception: the image of Christ on the cross does not one example that most people can understand in terms of what a clears up a few things, especially to any non-Catholics that mean Catholics don't believe Jesus rose in three days. We just see as saint is like: total devotion to God and, in her case, to the poor (a may stumble upon this. important the suffering Christ endured for us on the way to his death. lot like Jesus). So on occasion, we ask saints to help us by praying That said, only one thing is left to stick (and stay) in my If Christ didn't endure the pain and heartbreak before his crucifixion, for us to God. Kinda like when you ask a friend to pray for your craw: We are living in the 21st century. We have technology to what would his death and resurrection mean? He could have come mom when she's sick. But saints are dead, you say? Well, chances get us things faster and make our lives simpler. With the excep- and died quietly in his sleep, but my guess is the impact of his death are they're in heaven and, being saints, they have God's ear. tion of war and violence and assorted lesser evils, America is a would have been greatly diminished. better place to live than it was when it was founded over 500 "Catholics believe the only way you confess your sins is years ago and when we drew up the paperwork making us a "Catholics worship Mary." through a priest." free nation in the 1700s. As you likely remember, part of all the Uhh, no. We think quite a lot of her and we hold her in pret- Another good one. But wrong. At every Mass, we recite the red tape when forming our country was something called ty high esteem, given what all she did for Christianity. And we "Our Father," or the Lord's Prayer as Protestants call it. We Freedom of Religion. figure if God had enough confidence in her ability to carry and have not taken out the line, "Forgive us our trespasses as we So why is it that 200 plus years after all those fine Americans give birth to the Savior of the world, she must be a pretty OK forgive those who trespass against us." We talk to our priests signed the Constitution, we still seem to be having a problem person. And so we think so, too. If God thinks that much of about our sins because unloading the burden of sin on another with that one? EUCHARIST: Jesus not an idea, feeling or memory, but living person (From 1) and is therefore deserving of the worship that is love, so I am constant in my affection for you" a week, so that Jesus is never left alone, and the given to the living God, and to Him alone" (Pope (Mt. 28:30; Jer 31:3). "The visit to the Blessed is always open for anyone to visit Him. Eucharistic sacrifice of His Body and Blood" John Paul II, September 29, 1979, Phoenix Park, Sacrament…is a great treasure of the Catholic *Exposition is when the Holy Eucharist is (Sacrosanctum Concilium, 47). Ireland; cf. Mysterium Fidei, 55). The Eucharist is faith. It nourishes social love and gives us placed in the Monstrance-a sacred vessel The bread and wine at Mass, "By the words "the source and summit of the Christian life" opportunities for adoration and thanksgiving, for designed to elevate Jesus in the Sacred Host, of Christ and the invocation of the Holy Spirit, Lumen Gentium, (Vatican II document), 11. Jesus reparation and supplication. Adoration of the so that people may look upon and adore Him. become Christ's Body and Blood" (Catechism hides His immense , beauty and dignity in the Blessed Sacrament [is] …in full accord with the When we visit Jesus exposed in the Blessed of the Catholic Church, #1333). The Eucharist Blessed Sacrament because He wants us to come teaching of the " (Pope Sacrament, we can talk with Him "face to is Jesus! The Eucharist is nothing less than to Him in faith that we may love Him for Himself. John Paul II, Phoenix Park, Ireland, 1979). face," as a friend. Pope John Paul II describes Adoration as looking upon the face of Christ. He Jesus' complete and Personal gift of Himself What is Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration? What is Eucharistic Adoration? says, "Eucharistic adoration strengthens Christian to us-Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity-under Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration is when a Eucharistic Adoration is visiting and spend- life…I exhort you to continue along this adoring the appearances of bread and wine in the con- parish sets aside a small room, or chapel, that is ing time with Jesus in the Sacred Host. It is an path, putting before the gaze of Jesus Christ the secrated Host, the Blessed Sacrament. open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with per- expression of our love for Jesus, who loves us anxieties, the hopes, the worries and even the sins "Jesus is not an idea or a feeling or a memo- manent exposition* of Jesus in the Most so much that He never wants to leave us and of all humanity. Before Him everything takes on ry, Jesus is a living 'person' always present Blessed Sacrament, the Holy Eucharist. It is stays with us day and night in the Blessed a new face" (Rome, March 25, 1996) among us. Love Jesus present in the Eucharist." simply our response to Jesus' love for us, where- Sacrament. He says: "Behold I am with you (Printed with permission from the Missionaries of The Eucharist, in the Mass and outside of the by each person is willing to spend a quiet holy Mass, is the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, always," "I have loved you with an everlasting the Blessed Sacrament, P.O. Box 1701, Plattsburgh, NY hour of prayer in His Eucharistic Presence once 12901. Phone: (518) 561-8193 Fax: (518) 566-7103). YOUTH: Teen group battles difficulties, has memorable year (From 9) from? We have learned that the HOLY SPIRIT do this when the Holy Spirit and His gifts are about reminds us of the Chrism that we will is the LOVE between the Father and the Son. strengthened in us. At Confirmation, the Holy be anointed with in Confirmation. There were other spiritual works of mercy This is the love that we received in Baptism Spirit will renew in us certain gifts that will In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us the Beatitudes performed that were not planned by our class: and are about to receive a new outpouring of in help us to know God's will and certain gifts which we studied in class. We learned that if In the last two years as we prepared for the the holy sacrament of Confirmation. that will help us to do God's will. The Holy times are tough, just remember that you will sacrament of Confirmation, our class lost a As we grow into adults, we will be taking Spirit will help us to ''walk the talk" and to someday have treasures in heaven. It also loving father--Douglas Plagens. many new steps. But confirmation will be one become true disciples of Jesus. reminds us to be peacemakers and to show We have lost a devoted grandmother-- of the most important steps of them all. We also have confidence in our patron mercy to everyone. We can be God's hands and Alberta Halfmann. When we were born, it was our parent's deci- saints that we have picked to help support us feet, and be a channel of His blessings to others. We have lost a close and wonderful friend-- sion to baptize us into the Catholic Church. on our journey to heaven. In conclusion, we would like to end with a Todd Weishuhn. Since then, we have been strengthened The First Reading from the Isaiah prayer that was in our textbooks, written by We have lost our awesome CYO leader-- through the sacraments of the Eucharist and tells us that the Spirit of the Lord is always with St. Richard of Chichester. Through the sacra- Deacon Mark Reeh. Reconciliation. Now we are ready to take the us and we were put on earth to spread our faith ment of Confirmation, we hope to fulfill the We have lost our Pope, John Paul II, who next step: Confirmation. with others. So many things in this reading words of this prayer: had such a great love for the youth. As young adults, we now have the chance describe what we tried to do as a class for the O most merciful Friend, my Brother, and Over and over, we found ourselves com- to choose Christ and His church for ourselves. past 2 years. We brought glad tidings to the my Redeemer, may I know you more clearly, forting the sorrowful. Our hearts were full of We are ready to make this step to become lowly and healed the broken-hearted. We love you more dearly, and follow you more pain, but each time we found our hearts full of more like Christ and to stand up for our faith. released the prisoners by praying to release their nearly, day by day, day by day. Amen. love to give to our family and friends. We are ready to live the sacrament of souls from sin. Because the Spirit of the Lord Sincerely, What is this LOVE, and where does it come Confirmation by bringing Christ to the world was upon us, we gave comfort to the mourning. The Confirmation Class of 2005 in word and action. We will have the tools to The "oil of gladness" that Isaiah speaks St. Lawrence Catholic Church Page 12 July 2005 The Angelus THE BACK PAGE The gospel according to Harry Potter LOOKING FOR GOD IN HARRY POT- TER, by John Granger. Tyndale (Carol ! Stream, Ill., 2004). 193 pp., $16.99. CULTURE Samaritan. In another, she shares how the Dr. IMAGINING FAITH WITH KIDS: Seuss classic “The Lorax,” with its hopeful UNEARTHING SEEDS OF THE GOSPEL message of replenishing the forest, helped her IN CHILDREN’S STORIES FROM son resolve his fears following Sept. 11, 2001. PETER RABBIT TO HARRY POTTER, Keaton says that parents who discuss with by Mary Margaret Keaton. Pauline Books children the seeds of the Gospel in the Potter and Media (Boston, 2005). 282 pp., $19.95. books will find more in the series than just the comfort that “at least Johnny’s reading a book.” HOUR OF THE WITCH: HARRY POT- Steve Wohlberg’s “Hour of the Witch: TER, WICCA WITCHCRAFT AND THE Harry Potter, Wicca Witchcraft and the Bible” BIBLE, by Steve Wohlberg. Destiny Image desperately tries to warn readers of the sinful (Shippensburg, Pa., 2005). 216 pp., $13.99. and even devilish nature of the Potter series. Wohlberg, director of Endtime Insights radio Reviewed by Jean Gonzalez and television ministry, admits he never liked Catholic News Service what he calls the idea behind the novels — glorifying witchcraft. The sixth installment of the Harry Potter Wohlberg’s basic conclusions are that the series — “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood These are the covers to "Looking for God in Harry Potter," by John Granger, "Imagining Potter series is bad because it might inspire Prince” by J.K. Rowling — will hit U.S. Faith with Kids: Unearthing Seeds of the Gospel in Children's Stories from Peter Rabbit to readers to learn more about Wicca, which is stores July 16. But not everyone is wild about Harry Potter," by Mary Margaret Keaton, and "Hour of the Witch: Harry Potter, Wicca, bad, and Harry Potter makes sorcery look Harry. Three new books offer insight about the Witchcraft and the Bible," by Steve Wohlberg. good and cool, even though the Bible states young wizard’s tales: two for and one against. sorcery is bad. Wohlberg points to The “pro” books will have Potter fans racing friendship and the good or bad consequences Don’t put that highlighter away if you grab individual choices have on an entire commu- Mary Margaret Keaton’s “Imagining Faith Deuteronomy 18 as a biblical passage in for highlighters to underline insightful pas- which sorcery is seen as evil. sages, tips on talking to children about the nity. with Kids,” subtitled “Unearthing Seeds of the Granger finds it significant that Potter, like Gospel in Children’s Stories from Peter Rabbit Potter fans might have a hard time with the books and keys to symbols in the series. The prose, which reads like a preacher stating the single “con” book could be boiled down to: the characters in the “The Chronicles of to Harry Potter.” Keaton looks at how the Narnia” by C.S. Lewis, uses incantational, not messages of Gospel stories, fables and literary same things over and over until you believe “Read Deuteronomy 18.” what he says. Frustrating — yet popular — “Looking for God in Harry Potter” by John invocational, magic. “Incantational magic is classics can enrich children’s lives. The voice about harmonizing with God’s word by imita- behind the prose is someone who loves to read phrases in chapters 1 through 9 are “more on Granger asks on the cover, “Is there Christian that later,” and “explained more in chapter 10.” meaning hidden in the best-selling books?” tion,” Granger explains. “Invocational magic is and values storytelling. When Keaton, who is about calling in evil spirits for power or advan- a journalist, scholar, catechist and mother, The author goes so far as to imply that per- His answer is “Yes.” Granger is the “Harry haps the devil inspired Rowling — unbe- Potter Professor” at Barnes and Noble tage — always a tragic mistake.” It is invoca- mentions a book or story, readers will want to tional magic that is contrary to Scripture, he pick it right up and read it. Keaton includes knownst to her — to write the Potter series University, a free, online offering of courses and to get it published. He says parents turn a and reading groups where he has taught a says. Thus, concern that the books might lay a both an index and reference lists of age-appro- foundation for occult practices is “misplaced” priate stories. blind eye to that notion because “at least course on using the series in children’s litera- Johnny’s reading.” Wohlberg’s interesting ture classes. He guides readers seeking the because Potter magic is not “demonic.” Keaton suggests ways parents and cate- Potter fans will love the insight Granger has chists can look for “seeds of Gospel mes- proposition is delivered in a condescending, spiritual messages in the books and uses Bible single-minded, doom-and-gloom tone. passages to back up his notions. Granger sees about the Potter symbols and scenarios, espe- sages” within stories and spark conversations cially the chapter on the historical and spiritu- with children about those messages. In one Gonzalez is projects editor for The Florida in the Potter books such Gospel values as the Catholic newspaper in Orlando, Fla., and a ultimate triumph of love over evil, loyalty, al significance of alchemy. Throughout the example, Keaton parallels “The Little Engine book are highlight-worthy passages. That Could” to the parable of the good parent. Children’s books guaranteed to chase away summer doldrums Reviews by Barb Fraze Houghton Mifflin Co. (Boston, 2005). 72 pp., $17. RUNNER, by Carl Deuker. Houghton Mifflin Catholic News Service This latest in Houghton Mifflin’s “Scientist in Co. (Boston, 2005). 216 pp. $16. the Field” series features scientists and their work From the opening paragraph, this first-person The following children’s books are guaranteed at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in tale of a teenage boy fighting poverty and an to chase away summer doldrums. central Iowa. Collard’s photography captures mul- alcoholic father will draw in the reader. Deuker tiple aspects of refuge life: a controlled burn, ani- addresses additional issues of friendship, survival HELP WANTED STORIES, by Gary Soto. mal activity, workers, wildflowers and butterflies, and values with realism. A compelling plot will Harcourt Inc. (Orlando, Fla., 2005). 216 pp., $17. to name a few. His text tells a good story, but the keep teens turning pages as they see how Chance This book has a multifaceted appeal to middle- nature and people photography will open many Taylor finds his way. (Ages 12-15) grade readers: First, it’s great story-telling! The readers’ eyes to a whole new world. (Ages 8-12) main character of each tale is of middle-school or PLEASE BURY ME IN THE LIBRARY, by J. high-school age and faces a problem common to MY VERY FIRST BIBLE, by James Harrison, Patrick Lewis, illustrated by Kyle M. Stone. teens, from feeling too gangly to appeal to girls illustrated by Diana Mayo. DK Publishing Inc. Gulliver Books (Orlando, Fla., 2005). 32 pp., $16. (“Teenage Chimps”) to feeling ashamed of sib- (New York, 2005). 80 pp., $12.99. This is possibly the most clever book of poetry lings and parents (“Sorry, Wrong Family”). Most Mayo’s colorful illustrations make this book, I have ever read in my life! From acrostics to stories include Hispanic characters and Spanish but special children’s features add to its charm. haiku to rhymes to free verse, Lewis proves him- phrases, and the book includes a three-page trans- Large-font story type blends well with the pic- self to be an accomplished wordsmith with an lation list in the back. Stories are told from the tures, but some pages contain even larger type unlimited imagination. Each poem has something perspective of girls and boys, yet the problems with simple phrases or sentences for beginning to do with reading, books or stories. Stone’s col- cross gender lines. The short stories make the readers. Each story has a Bible citation on which orful and humorous paintings make this book, to book easy to read in short spurts — a fine com- the tale is based, and some stories have small steal the title of one poem, “Ab-so-lu-tas-ti-cal!” petitor to TV and computers. (Ages 11-14) matching or sorting games for nonreaders. For It is billed as a book for beginning readers, but, example, “How many colors can you see?” is as Lewis writes, “A children’s book is a classic/If THE PRAIRIE BUILDERS: RECONSTRUCT- under the illustration of Joseph’s coat of many at six, excitedly/You read it to another kid/Who ING AMERICA’S LOST GRASSLANDS, writ- colors. The book works especially well if older just turned sixty-three.” (All ages) ten and photographed by Sneed B. Collard III. readers read along or read aloud. (Ages 3-8)