WWW.BISMARCKDIOCESE.COM VOL. 76 NO. 4 APRIL 2017 Dakota Catholic Action Reporting on Catholic action in western ND since 1941

Photos credit: Pontifi cal North American College Bishop Kagan celebrated Mass at the Pontifi cal North American College on Feb. 26. Also present were (back row, l-r): Seminarian Jarad Wolf, Seminarian Deacon Jordan Dosch, Fr. David Richter, Seminarian Christian Smith, Fr. Chris Kadrmas, Seminarian Dominic Bouck. Front row (l-r): Fr. Austin Vetter, Fr. Josh Ehli, Seminarian Brandon Wolf, Bishop Kagan, Seminarian Gregory Crane, Fr. Nick Schneider and Fr. Jared Johnson. Bishop Kagan served as celebrant for ministry of acolyte His Excellency Bishop Kagan, Diocesan seminarians, Gregory Mass in the Main Chapel, him since he has been so kind to an alumnus of the college, was Crane and Brandon Wolf, were dedicated to Our Lady under our groups in giving them a tour the celebrant of the Mass in among 63 men to receive the Her title of the Immaculate of the Papal Basilica of St. Paul the Chapel of the Immaculate ministry of acolyte during this Conception, brought back so many Outside the Walls.” Conception of the North American Mass. memories for me, especially my During his homily at the College on Feb. 26. He is the fi rst Bishop Kagan said the own ordination to the Transitional Mass, celebrated on the Eighth bishop of our diocese to be the experience was a tremendous Diaconate in May 1974, when my Sunday of Ordinary Time, Bishop principal celebrant of such a Mass. privilege and honor. “Celebrating parents were able to be with me Kagan reminded the second- for that wonderful day.” year seminarians that their new Concelebrating were diocesan responsibility of serving at the priests Fathers Austin Vetter, altar, their second-to-last step Josh Ehli, Nick Schneider, Jared before being ordained priests, is Johnson, David Richter and one to be taken on with a spirit of Chris Kadrmas. “What made it humility. “Remember that your even more special for me was the service is never to be about you…. presence of our own Bismarck for the people of God whom you priests who concelebrated. Along will serve look to you to model with them, my classmate and fi delity, devotion and humble joy long-time friend Cardinal James in your service to Almighty God, Harvey concelebrated. Many of and what a privilege you have in our high school pilgrims from the this vocation.” last few years would remember Continued on page 5

Bishop Kagan was able to serve alongside diocesan priests and seminarians. Here, A LOOK INSIDE Diocesan seminarian Deacon Jordan Dosch serves on the altar.

Serving others Mission to Uganda Camp ReCreation is an opportunity Sister Nancy Gunderson will be part of for volunteers to serve Christ a mission team teaching children in through others ...... PAGE 4 Africa this summer ...... PAGE 6 2 | Dakota Catholic Action Bishop David D. Kagan APRIL 2017 Keep Lent’s disciplines even after it ends BISHOP’S heightens our desire to celebrate Then, Holy Week began with SCHEDULE FROM THE BISHOP well the Paschal Triduum Palm Sunday and what we had • which begins with the Mass experienced during “Passion APRIL 2017 of the Lord’s Supper and ends Week” was not forgotten but April 2 • Confi rmation for the with Evening Prayer on Easter again, intensified as Jesus Churches of St. Mary, Sunday. approached His Passion and Foxholm, and St. Philomena, Glenburn, at However, I would like to death. As it was then so it is Foxholm, 11 a.m. review these last few weeks of now, Lent came to an end with April 5 • Board of Directors Lent and then speak briefly the celebration of the Mass Meeting for Kenrick- about the Paschal Triduum and of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Glennon Seminary, the Easter Season. When I was Thursday evening and at the St. Louis same time, the shortest liturgical April 8 • Palm Sunday Vigil Mass, a bit younger, the Fifth Sunday Cathedral of the Holy of Lent began what the Church season in our year began. This Spirit, Bismarck, 5 p.m. used to call “Passion Week.” is the Paschal Triduum of Holy April 10 • Chrism Mass, Cathedral of The Mass prayers and readings Thursday evening, Good Friday, the Holy Spirit, Bismarck, for each Mass during the week Holy Saturday through the 11 a.m. were very focused on the days evening of Easter Sunday. April 12 • Communal Penance Service, Cathedral of the in the life of Jesus leading up Holy Week focuses all our Holy Spirit, Bismarck Bishop David D. Kagan to Palm Sunday. The older attention on the eternal love 7 p.m. personal Missals we all used for and mercy of God Our Father April 13 • Mass of the Lord’s Supper, Mass are a good reference for for us, His sinful children. He Cathedral of the Holy ue to the later date Spirit, Bismarck 5:30 p.m. this year for our what I mean. In the Gospels, sent His Only Son, Jesus, to we read that the objections to redeem us from what we had April 14 • Good Friday Service, D greatest Solemnity, Cathedral of the Holy the Resurrection of the Lord, Jesus from the Pharisees and done to ourselves. We could not Spirit, Bismarck 5:30 p.m. you will receive this issue of Scribes increased and they were do this for ourselves, only God April 15 • Easter Vigil Mass, openly conspiring against Jesus could and He did. Jesus took Cathedral of the Holy our Diocesan newspaper while Spirit, Bismarck, 8:15 p.m. we continue to observe the in order to put Him to death. every sin of every person, past, “Passion Week’s” tone was very present and future, on Himself April 18 • Real Presence Radio discipline of Lent. One among interview, 9 a.m. somber, sobering and in a way and His obedience undid the many of the blessings of the April 19 • Building Commission Lenten season is that what we foreboding; all pointed to His disobedience of Adam and Eve Meeting, Center for betrayal and what followed from and all their children. It is no Pastoral Ministry, do in our lives of prayer, our Bismarck 10 a.m. lives of good works and our lives that. wonder that the Church has called this week “Holy Week.” • Confi rmation at the of sacrifices and penances, only Church of Christ the King, It is sanctified not by us, but by Mandan, 7 p.m. the Lord Jesus for us. “Passion April 20 • Annual Mass and Pastoral BISHOP IN ACTION Week” and “Holy Week” are the Visit to Marillac Manor, culmination of Lent, but do not Bismarck, 8:30 a.m. end what we have been doing in April 21 • Confi rmation at Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, Lent. They help us understand Bismarck 7 p.m. that all of this is to attach us April 22 • Retreat for newly-received even more closely to Our Lord Catholics, Cathedral of and Savior as His disciples, the Holy Spirit, Bismarck, and as the beloved sons and 3:30 p.m. daughters of Our Father. April 23-24 • Workshop for new priests, Radisson, Bismarck As we approach the end of April 24-27 • Spring Clergy Conference, Lent, let us continue to keep Radisson, Bismarck its discipline of devout prayer, April 28 • Confi rmation for the truly generous alms giving and Churches of St. Joseph in selfless sacrifices all for the Beulah and St. Martin in Hazen, at Beulah, 6 p.m. honor and glory and love of God April 29 • University of Mary and of our neighbor. Let us not Commencement, forget that the Way of the Cross Bismarck Event Center, of Jesus is our way to heaven, to 2 p.m. the Father through Jesus. April 30 • Confi rmation for the Churches of St. Mary May all of you have a most in Golva and St. John the Baptist in Beach, at Staff photo Blessed Easter and Easter Golva, 10:30 a.m. MT Bishop Kagan visits with Scott Hennen, host of a statewide radio talk show, at the Season! fundraising banquet for Real Presence Radio held in Bismarck last month. 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Publisher: Most Reverend David D. Kagan, D.D., P.A., J.C.L., Bishop of Bismarck Editor: Sonia Mullally, [email protected] Center for Pastoral Ministry - Diocese of Bismarck USPS0011-5770 520 N. Washington Street, PO Box 1137, Bismarck, ND 58501-1137 Phone: 701-222-3035 Fax: 701-222-0269 www.bismarckdiocese.com

The Dakota Catholic Action (0011-5770) is published monthly except July by the Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1575, Bismarck, ND 58502-1575. Follow the Diocese on Twitter @BisDiocese Periodical postage paid at Bismarck, ND, and additional mailing offi ces. and follow Bishop Kagan @VescovoDDK POSTMASTER: Send address changes to address below. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ Dakota Catholic Action, PO Box 1137, Bismarck, ND 58501-1137 Bismarck Diocese Get status updates, photos, videos, and links and share them The Dakota Catholic Action is funded in part by the annual with your friends. God’s Share Appeal. Visit our website at www.bismarckdiocese.com Get news, photos, videos and more from around the diocese. 3 APRIL 2017 Catholic Action Bringing Christ into everyday life Dakota Catholic Action | At the intersection of faith and science Public invited to April 25 presentation by Fr. Spitzer Do you ever struggle with are reserved for diocesan clergy senior leaders at the Pentagon, the direction to turn at the retreats and convocations, major Tony Blair’s Cabinet in London, intersection of faith and science? diocesan events, and associations and leaders of both sides of the Enter into the mystery with of Catholic educators and Northern Ireland confl ict. nationally-known clergy/speaker physicians. His many media appearances Fr. Robert Spitzer. Formerly the president of include: Larry King Live (debating Jesuit Father Spitzer will be Gonzaga University for 11 years, Stephen Hawking and prominent in Bismarck offering one public Fr. Spitzer signifi cantly increased colleagues on God and modern presentation on Tuesday, April 25 the programs and curricula physics), the Today Show at 7 p.m. at St. Mary’s in Bismarck. in faith, ethics, service, and (debating on the topic of active His talk, “Science at the Doorway leadership. He led the efforts to euthanasia), The History Channel to God - Latest Evidence of God build 20 new facilities, increased in “God and The Universe,” and a Through Physics” will tackle a the student population by 75%, multiple part PBS series “Closer to range of topics on the human and raised more than $200 the Truth.” soul, near-death experiences, the million for scholarships and Born in Honolulu, Hawaii Shroud of Turin, and more. capital projects. in 1952, Fr. Spitzer entered the Father says to bring your He has written fi ve books on Society of Jesus in 1974, was skeptical family, friends and such diverse topics as: practical ordained a priest on June 11, 1983, children. The presentation is open spirituality, faith and physics, and took fi nal vows April 4, 1992. Fr. Spitzer to all at no charge. philosophy, pro-life apologetics, —Staff report About Fr. Spitzer and leadership and organizational Fr. Robert Spitzer, S.J., Ph.D., development. His scholarly articles is the founder and president of have appeared in various business, PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN the Spitzer Center. A scholar, philosophy and scientifi c journals. The Diocese of Bismarck is fi rmly committed to the health and teacher, author, and seasoned He has produced seven protection of our children, young people and vulnerable adults. With the leader, Fr. Spitzer is pre-eminently television series for EWTN: hope of healing the pain and suff ering from sexual abuse in the Catholic a theologian and philosopher. His Healing the Culture, The Spirit Church, we encourage anyone who has suff ered from this abuse to please other fi elds of expertise, however, of Catholic Leadership, Suffering come forward and let us know. To report allegations of sexual abuse, include management science, and the Love of God, Finding God please contact: Dale Eberle, Chancellor, Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1575, fi nance, ethics, and physics. through Faith and Reason, Five Bismarck, ND 58502-1575. Phone: 701.223.1347 or 1.877.405.7435. The Through the Spitzer Center, Pillars of the Spiritual Life, Jesus- complaint form and policies can be found on the diocesan web site at he hopes to bring knowledge Emmanuel, and The Heavens http://www.bismarckdiocese.com. and decades of experience to Proclaim the Glory of God. bear on the needs of the Church, A much sought-after speaker, CODE OF PASTORAL CONDUCT with the goal of helping Catholic Fr. Spitzer has personally The Catholic Church must be exemplary: Clergy, staff , whether diocesan organizations to grow in wisdom, conducted retreats and or parish, and volunteers are held accountable for their behavior. To enable faith, effectiveness, and zeal for convocations for priests, deacons the highest level of accountability, there must be a clear and unambiguous God’s work. and educators in many dioceses defi nition of appropriate behavior. To this end, this Code of Pastoral Fr. Spitzer has been across the United States. He Conduct is defi ned for the Diocese of Bismarck and it provides a foundation instrumental in shaping the has also addressed corporate, for implementing eff ective and enforceable standards for all personnel. vision and curricula of the Center. academic, scientifi c, and View the Code of Pastoral Conduct at http://www.bismarckdiocese.com. His live speaking engagements governmental audiences, including Father DaughterBall Saturday, May 6 5 p.m. Social • 6 p.m. Dinner Bismarck Municipal Country Club An event for fathers and daughters age 4-18. Supper will be served with the dance to follow. A picture will be taken of each Father Daughter couple. Tickets: $50/father daughter couple. ($10 each additional daughter) Register online at bismarckdiocese.com/ball

Sponsored by: Diocese of Bismarck Office of Family Ministry Tara Brooke • [email protected] 4 | Dakota Catholic Action Catholic Action Bringing Christ into everyday life APRIL 2017 Serving others through love at Camp ReCreation

By Paul Gardner days of camp and was I was about 13 years old when anxious to get going. a good friend “But, I have some recommended questions…about Jesus,” becoming he said as I attempted to a counselor leave. at Camp I am a seminarian. ReCreation, How could I say no to an annual this? summer camp So, he asked that builds questions; I played the relationships role of teacher and did between Paul Gardner my best to answer his teenagers (the questions as simply as camp counselors) and people with possible. special needs (the campers). After a few minutes At that time, I knew little about on this topic, I began to working with people with special realize in astonishment needs, but I fi gured there would how much this young be cute girl counselors there man truly loved Jesus and it was a chance to be away and longed to know more from my parents for once. I was about Him. homeschooled, can you blame me? As our conversation So, I decided to go. continued, his eyes Despite my immature began to fi ll with tears. reasoning, the Lord in His Eventually he asked in warms you with joy, scorches away has been a signifi cant part of my providence made this to be one of a sad voice, “But, why did Jesus your selfi shness, consumes your call to go to seminary. the best decisions of my life, and have to die on the cross? Why were pride, and so purifi es your heart If you or someone you know I have continued to go to camp the soldiers so cruel?” that nothing remains in you but is looking for an opportunity to almost every summer since. I It was at that moment that I a burning love for each daughter serve Christ through the most wasn’t wrong about the cute girl realized that I was no longer the and son of God the Father. In that joyful and carefree of His children, counselors and I even fell in love teacher, but the student in the moment, your whole interior being I encourage you to consider the very fi rst week, but not with conversation. From all my studies cries in uncontained joy, “I am involving yourself in Camp any of them. No, I fell in love with as a seminarian, I could say many fully alive! This is how living was ReCreation. For more information, those who struggled to walk, those intellectual things about Jesus meant to be!” go to camprecreationnd.com or who needed assistance eating, and and the cross, but have I ever been Praise God for the gift of Camp call 701-974-3774. those who depended on caregivers moved to tears at the thought of it? ReCreation and for all the fruits it Paul Gardner is currently a during every moment of the day. Not really. And, here was a young has produced through the years. diocesan seminarian studying Camp ReCreation is divided into man who loved Jesus with a love Because of their experiences at Pre-Theology II in Denver at two separate, four-day sessions so tender that I could not help but camp, many of my counselor St. John Vianney Seminary. He scheduled during the fi rst two full to learn from him. friends have gone on to fi nd other grew up in the New England area weeks of June. Camp fi rst began at Such are the experiences of ways to serve and to give their attending St. Mary’s Church. Assumption Abbey in Richardton many who give their time at Camp lives away in love. For me, camp over 40 years ago, but has since ReCreation. Throughout the years, been moved to Richardton-Taylor teenagers have come to camp High School. During each week of with noble intentions of serving Camp, activities include: a bonfi re, and giving of themselves in love. water-fi ght, dances, talent show, But, as camp ends each year, sing-a-longs, art projects, religion one can always hear them saying classes, and an assortment of things among themselves such as, games, bowling, BBQ, magic show, “we wanted to be loving towards and many other activities. From people with special needs, but they the moment the campers arrive are the ones who have showed us each year until the closing Mass, it how to love” and “the campers softens even the hardest of hearts are so joyful and carefree, they to see how the campers enter have taught us how to really be with great joy and uncontained ourselves and not worry so much enthusiasm into the activities of about what others think of us.” camp. But, while camp has a fun My friends, when you meet a and lively atmosphere, there are person with special needs, that also powerful moments of faith. is, when you spend time getting At camp this past summer, a to know them, when you listen to young man with Down syndrome them, pray with them, joke with begged me to stay by his bedside them, cry, dance, play games and for a few minutes before he went sing with them, a fi re begins to to sleep. I was tired after several build within you. It’s a fi re that APRIL 2017 Dakota Catholic Action | 5 Celebrating in Rome

Continued from page 1 continue to pray for vocations, but in a special way I ask all Crane and Wolf have two to continue to pray for each of additional years of theological our seminarians now in priestly studies and spiritual formation formation. That is a vital and before being ordained to the tremendous gift we give to priesthood for our diocese. them.” As part of the rite, the Bishop The Pontifi cal North placed the paten, which contains American College serves as the the hosts for the celebration American seminary in Rome. of Mass, in the hands of each Founded in 1859 by Blessed candidate and said, “Take Pius IX, the college has formed this vessel with bread for the over 5,000 priests near the celebration of the Eucharist. heart of the Church for service Make your life worthy of your in dioceses around the United Diocesan seminarian Gregory Crane was among 63 men to receive the ministry of service at the table of the Lord acolyte at Pontifi cal North American College on Feb. 26 from Bishop Kagan who was States, Canada, and Australia. the celebrant at the Mass. and of his Church.” The College strengthens the “To be able to institute two bonds between Rome and local of our own seminarians as Churches worldwide, and it Acolytes of the Church at that allows its students to study Mass was wonderful, but all our the Church’s rich religious and seminarians had a part in the cultural heritage at close range. Mass which was a source of great —Information provided by joy and pride for me,” Bishop Pontifi cal North American College Kagan commented when talking about his trip. “All of our men are doing so very well and clearly they are growing in that identity to Jesus and His Heart that priestly formation develops in every seminarian. Diocesan Seminarians Deacon Jordan Dosch, Christian Smith, Jarad Wolf and Dominic Bouck, are also in Rome studying for the diocese at the Pontifi cal North American College. Diocesan seminarian Brandon Wolf was among 63 Diocesan seminarian Deacon Jordan Dosch served during Mass at the Pontifi cal North American College on Feb. 26 where Bishop Kagan was the celebrant. Diocesan Bishop Kagan added, men to receive the ministry of acolyte at Pontifi cal North American College on Feb. 26. seminarian Christian Smith, who also served during the Mass, is seated just behind “I ask that everyone Deacon Dosch. Obituary

Fr. Sebastian studies at the Abbey, he was chaplain, and formation director. September, was appointed guest ordained to the priesthood on May He was Prior of Monasterio master. He also served as Subprior 26, 1960. Benedictino de Tibatí from July for many years and did pastoral Schmidt, OSB During the summers of 1959 1987 to April 1996. He also served substitute work. He was substitute and 1960 Fr. Sebastian attended as economo at Tibatí. chaplain at CHI St. Joseph’s Father Sebastian (Leopold) Marquette University where he After returning to the U.S. Hospital, Dickinson. Schmidt, OSB, studied biology. He volunteered to at the end of December 1999, Father Sebastian is preceded in 82, died at the go to the Abbey’s daughter house, he was named pastor of Sacred death by his parents, two brothers, Richardton Monasterio Benedictino de Tibatí, Heart Church, Glen Ullin in Anton (Alta) Schmidt and Larry Health Center Bogotá, Colombia. He received his January2000, which included (Shirley and Jeanie) Schmidt, and on Feb. 18, appointment to Tibatí in June of a Mass during the summer at four sisters, Barbara Schmidt, 2017, from 1961, and departed that July. Even Lake Tschida. Later St. Ann’s Phyllis (Herbert) Hieb, Florence pancreatic though his work at Tibatí and its Church, Hebron, was added to (Anton) Gisi, and Martha (Ken) cancer. Mass two schools of Colegio San Carlos his responsibilities. He concluded Halvorson. He is survived by three of Christian and Colegio San Benito de Tibatí his work at Glen Ullin on June sisters, Deloris (Andy) Imberi, Burial was was his signature work and where 30, 2007. In August 2007, Fr. Magdalene (Marvin) Carroll, and held Feb, 22 he made many lifelong friends, he Sebastian went to Madonna Living Cathy (Gary) Parks, 28 nieces followed by Fr. Sebastian Schmidt was asked to return several times Center, Rochester, Minn., as and nephews and his monastic burial in the Abbey cemetery. to Richardton to help at home. resident chaplain. In May 2009, community. Fr. Sebastian was born in In August 1966, Fr. Sebastian he returned to the Abbey and, in Hosmer, S.D., on November was appointed Superintendent of 23, 1934, to Ludwig and Clara the Abbey Prep School. During (Lacher) Schmidt. He received his 1967 and 1968, he studied at North elementary education in Hosmer. Dakota State University in Fargo, Holy Father’s Prayer He mentioned to his pastor that from where he earned a MED in he was interested in becoming Counseling. In the fall of 1968, he Intentions for April a priest and was directed to returned to Colombia. In 1975, Assumption Abbey, Richardton. At he returned to the Abbey again the Abbey, Fr. Sebastian received and in July 1976, was appointed Universal: Formation and Vocation Director. his high school education and fi rst Young People. That young people two years of college. On June 17, In 1978, he returned to Bogotá. 1954, he entered the novitiate and Over the years, he worked in may respond generously to their made his monastic profession on many positions at Tibatí and vocations and seriously consider its schools, especially Colegio July 11, 1955. He went to St. John’s off ering themselves to God in the University, Collegeville, Minn., to San Carlos, including Rector of fi nish college and graduated with Colegio San Carlos from 1965-66, priesthood or consecrated life. honors. After completing seminary administrator, teacher, coach, 6 | Dakota Catholic Action APRIL 2017 Mission team heading to Uganda Sister Nancy Gunderson will teach children in Africa this summer “You would be the fi rst one.” the Universal Sister Nancy Gunderson, a Living Rosary Benedictine Sister of Annunciation Association, Monastery, Bismarck, pondered that takes St. those words from Pam Kossan, a Philomena as University of Mary alum and nurse their patroness who is leading the Mary Mission to see if they Team to Uganda. Sister Nancy was would be willing taken totally by surprise and didn’t to donate 350 think it could be possible, but the medals of St. words burned in her soul. Philomena and Pam’s words were something 500 rosaries for like this, “Will you come to the children. Uganda with our mission team The Association and teach for a week in July at St. surprised Sr. Philomena Primary School? The Nancy with a school serves fi ve villages with 27-pound box of over 800 AIDS orphans. We want everything she a sister to come. They have never requested and experienced a sister. You would be more. The local the fi rst one.” bishop in Uganda “If we can make it happen, will will bless the you come?” Kossan repeated. school when Sr. Sister Nancy explained, Nancy and the “Something in me whispered ‘yes’ mission group are not even knowing where that came there and dedicate Submitted photos from or what I was committing the new church Sister Nancy Gunderson showed her quilt work to a group of students at the University of Mary as she asked for their assistance with projects associated with her upcoming trip to Uganda. to or what could make it possible. that is currently being built. I only knew the days and weeks eight pairs of shoes at a store that Teaching about Blessed Virgin ahead would confi rm if that was a “We also needed to collect sells gently-used children’s items. Mary toothbrushes and toothpaste real call from the Spirit.” More shoes are being collected While in Uganda, Sr. Nancy to take to Africa, and it just so Sister Nancy brought the for children ages four through the will teach the children about the happened that a bag of 150 of request before the Annunciation teens. Blessed Virgin Mary. She’s still them were left over from a charity Monastery prioress and council. Sister Nancy, who is also a amazed at how the Holy Spirit is project the Sisters of Annunciation It would be the fi rst step in professor at the University of working as plans fall into place for Monastery donated to,” explained discernment. “Not expecting their Mary, is engaging students with this new call in her life. She says, Sr. Nancy. affi rmative response, I was again this project utilizing their skills “My heart is being converted as I surprised by their ‘yes’ and even Need donations of black shoes to raise funds, apply for grants, say ‘yes’ to each step.’” their encouragement,” she said. As The children at St. Philomena’s and make a difference in the lives Sister Nancy, a gifted artist, is plans and funds began falling into need black Oxford-style shoes, of the orphans. Students from a also in the process of making a place, Sr. Nancy was reassured with ties or velcro, as part of social welfare policy class have story art quilt about St. Philomena that this is where God is leading their school uniform and so they organized drop sites for shoe and the school and church in her. can trudge through the rough donations at various Bismarck Uganda, which she will present The school, where Sr. Nancy will terrain to get from their villages parishes. The shoes can be new to the children. The quilt tells the teach in Uganda, is named after to school. While visiting family or slightly used; they must be story about St. Philomena and St. Philomena so she contacted in Minneapolis, Sr. Nancy found black, and either tie or velcro. The includes the names of the children students’ goal is to collect 400 who will attend the school where pairs of shoes for the students. Sister Nancy will teach. —Submitted information

The following prayer was written by Bishop Kagan at the request of Mandan’s Fr. DeSmet Assembly 4th Degree Knights of Columbus. If your parish would like copies of the prayer to distribute, contact Pete Deichert at 701-391-5201 or [email protected]. Prayer for Peace and Unity Holy Mother Mary, it is your natural death, may our good divine Son, Our Lord Jesus, example inspire and lead other Who taught us, Blessed are the women and men to feed the peacemakers for they shall be hungry, clothe the naked, visit called children of God. the sick and the imprisoned, We pray that you intercede and may we instruct with love with Our Lord Jesus for us and respect those who do not that we, your poor children, know Jesus and to counsel may do as He teaches and by those who wish to abandon our words and good works and avoid Him. foster true peace and harmony O Holy Mother Mary, assist among our brothers and sisters us with your prayers to love in our Nation. and follow Jesus just as you Through your intercession did. Help us to imitate Jesus may we set an example of Who is the Divine Healer of real charity by the faithful souls and the One Who gives and courageous living of our His peace to all, a peace that Catholic faith, showing to the world cannot give. others the Holy Face of Jesus in O Holy Mother Mary, our care for their spiritual and Immaculately Conceived, pray physical needs. for us who have recourse to Through your intercession you. Amen may our good example inspire Most Reverend David D. Kagan and lead other women and Bishop of Bismarck men to defend innocent December, 2016 Sister Nancy created another quilt in honor of her upcoming trip to Uganda portraying St. human life from conception to Philomena, the patroness of the school where sister will be teaching while there. APRIL 2017 Dakota Catholic Action | 7 Coming into the Church

High School Senior is confirmed at send-off Mass for March for Life

By Patti Armstrong St. Mary’s Central High School senior Breanna Running Bear wanted to become Catholic before she left on the pilgrimage to the March for Life so that she could receive Jesus in Holy Communion at daily Mass on the trip. She received the sacrament of confi rmation just in the nick of time. On Jan. 24, during the Mass to send off the pilgrimages to Washington, D.C., Bishop David Kagan called Breanna to the front of the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bismarck. Her stepdad and sponsor, Bill Brien, walked with her. He put his right hand on Breanna’s shoulder as Bishop Kagan anointed her head with sacred chrism and pronounced, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” This was not a decision she had rushed into, nor was it a journey she traveled alone. Her path can be traced back to her Submitted photos mother, Geri’s, search for a deeper Breanna Running Bear (far right) had the support of her family for her confi rmation in January before departing with her classmates to relationship with Jesus. the March for Life in Washington, D.C. Pictured (l-r) are her sister, Dakotah, mother Geri, grandmother Ramona Fischer, brother Lonnie, and stepdad Bill. Her mother’s search Years earlier, Geri and her In the meantime, Geri began and to help each other all get to was St. Mary’s chaplain when he boyfriend Bill had both just attending Rite of Christian heaven.” The annulment was attended there. graduated from University of Initiation (RCIA) classes to learn granted on Nov. 13, 2016; and Previously attending North Dakota in Grand Forks about the Catholic faith. As she on Nov. 19, Bill and Geri were public schools, Breanna said and come to Bismarck. Being a listened, something stirred within married at Cathedral of the Holy she was uncomfortable with single mother while attending her heart. “I thought, ‘Here it is! Spirit. attending a private school. college had been rough, Geri said. Here is what I’ve been looking Their faith walk has not Nonetheless, she was open to Although she had not been raised for,’” she said. “I wanted more and been easy, however. In October becoming knowledgeable in the with religion, she often turned to I couldn’t get it fast enough. I was 2014, Geri learned she had Catholic teachings. Some of the God for help. so excited to learn.” breast cancer. After surgery and controversial issues like abortion Once back in Bismarck, Bill became serious about his chemotherapy, she was declared and same-sex attraction were however, Geri and Bill began to own faith; reading and listening cancer free in February of 2015, challenging due to previous wonder if their relationship would to Catholic radio so that he and but by October, another lump misguided opinions. After a few work out. Things had become very Geri were growing together. They was found and a malignant brain semesters of religion courses, her rocky. “This is not going to work did not always understand every tumor. Her treatment continues. teachers and the fl ourishing light without God,” Bill told Geri. That’s detail, but were willing to follow “It has made me stronger,” Geri of God helped her make sense of when he mentioned to her that he Church teaching, even agreeing said. “I rely on God because I can’t the Catholic Faith. had been baptized Catholic. to live like brother and sister rely on my own strength. I carry a Still, Breanna continued to Bill started explaining the until they could be married in the rosary with me every day. I have demand more knowledge of our Catholic faith to Geri although he Church. good days and bad. My husband Lord. One month before the had not practiced it in awhile. She “It was hard to follow prays over me every morning, and March for Life, Fr. Johnson asked was not impressed. “All I saw was something that had never been he blesses me with holy water. He her if she wanted to be Catholic. rules, rules, rules,” she said. “But introduced to me before,” Geri is my rock.” “He taught me and came to know nothing else was working so I was said. “It was a new way but I was Breanna’s Journey me, as well as what I gathered in willing to give it a try.” giving up less than I was receiving his and other classes when reading Geri and Bill attended Mass Bill and Geri went to Cathedral through the Catholic faith.” some of my papers. He knew I was with all three of their children— of the Holy Spirit and met with She added, “There was an inner growing very well,” she said. Dakotah, Breanna, and Lonnie— Fr. Nick Schneider who was the knowing that this was the truth. I “I will get back to you,” from the start of their journey. associate pastor at that time. felt the love of God and love from Breanna told him. “I wanted to be Breanna said because the change They learned that if they were all the people I was dealing with,” certain and not jump into it half- happened so quickly, it was hard to ever get married, Geri needed she said. “I loved the priests. Msgr. heartedly,” she said. One week for her to adjust. She and her an annulment for her previous [Tom] Richter was the next one to before the March, Fr. Johnson older sister, Dakotah, were sent marriage because it had taken help us. He was amazing; so full asked Breanna if she had thought unwillingly to St. Mary’s Central place between two baptized of love for us, and Father [Jared] about his question. “I said ‘yes,’ High School. “At the time, we were Christians. She began the Johnson too.” realizing it meant something. I was frustrated with having no say in annulment process to determine “We were learning a new way,” not doubting myself any more.” transferring schools. However, if the marriage was considered a Geri said. “We knew God wanted During her Confi rmation Mass, I later realized how much of a valid sacrament. us to be examples to our children Breanna said she had a moment blessing it was.” of refl ection. “I was so thankful of Breanna credits the examples how everything fell into place,” she and enthusiasm of teachers like said. “I just kept thanking God.” Nick Emmel, Reed Ruggles, It also had an impact on her Fr. Johnson and Msgr. Richter experience at the March for Life. “I for making the Catholic faith loved every minute of the March,” meaningful to her. Breanna said. “Being able to “My journey through St. Mary’s attend Mass every morning and has been very personal,” she receive Jesus,” she said. said. “I discovered a lot of who Breanna credits her parents I am there and it included my with helping her to trust in God mom’s journey.” She also credits through all of this. the friendship and inspiration of “They’ve been a huge help,” she Darius Sparks with helping her. said. “I look at my mom and see He, too, is Native American all that she goes through on a daily and was a senior at St. Mary’s basis and how much trust she has when she was a freshman. Darius in God regardless. She has been a entered the Church last year, living example.” Breanna and her stepdad and sponsor, Bill Brien stood before Bishop Kagan at the sponsored by Fr. Josh Waltz who Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bismarck as she received the sacrament of confi rmation.  | Dakota Catholic Action APRIL 2017 APRIL 2017 Dakota Catholic Action |  All are welcome

catechumenate, catechumenate, a part of them had been missing, purification and enlightenment, and they didn’t even realize it, and the neophyte year. The but since attending RCIA and formation process is open to participating in Mass, they realized catechumens, or people who that whatever was missing before have not been baptized and isn’t missing anymore,” Deb typically have little-to-no faith shared. formation. Those who would According to Julianna Cabell, be called candidates, on the a catechumen who will be fully other hand, are people who have initiated into the Catholic Church at least been validly baptized on Easter this year, Catholicism in a Christian denomination is appealing for what it is, and its and likely have had some faith wonder wins over the searching formation, but may also be heart. uncatechized.” “What drew me towards The first period is that of becoming Catholic was the beauty evangelization—the basic and truth of Catholicism itself,” Cathedral of the Holy Spirit’s Faith Formation Director Deb Martinek at the delivery of the Gospel message Julianna said. “Growing up, I Rite of Election gathering. and invitation to the inquirer didn’t know there were even such to learn more and deepen their things as sacraments. But now, understanding of Christ. The I see that God has given us the second period is that of the pre- sacraments to bring us closer to catechumenate during which Him. I first started to understand inquirers show evidence of an that the Catholic Church and initial conversion and intention its teachings were true when I to change their lives by entering read John 6, and realized that The RCIA Rite of Election for catechumens (and their sponsors) was held in early March at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit in Bismarck. Photos by Deacon Joe Krupinsky into a relationship with God in the true presence of Christ in Christ. the Eucharist made sense. As I Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults program guides The catechumenate is the keep learning about the faith, I third period by which the continue to see more and more of participants are given pastoral its truth and beauty.” people on their journey growing closer to Christ guidance and formation, aimed Along her journey, RCIA at training them in the Christian classes have helped Julianna to By Amanda Evinger only mature my faith and bring me even week. Attending Mass each week as a family life. The fourth period is that of purification comprehend Catholic beliefs in a For many RCIA (Rite of Christian closer to God.” gives my children stability.” and enlightenment, which, coinciding with more profound way. Initiation for Adults) members, the And, it’s also a fantastic way to peer As Tricia shared, the RCIA experience Lent, prepares the catechumens to receive “Even though I had read about program’s classes provide a way to not only into the window of Catholicism, and also provides a firm foundation of the sacraments of initiation (baptism, Catholicism on my own and knew learn about the Church and its teachings, prepare oneself to bring others to catch the community with the Body of Christ for the confirmation and Eucharist) at the Easter I wanted to become Catholic but also to encounter the omnipotent love beautiful view as well. newly initiated. Vigil. The neophyte year marks the fifth before attending RCIA, I’ve of God in amazing ways. “Throughout the RCIA process, I was “I am truly fortunate to have had the period, during which the newly baptized enjoyed learning the teachings of “I am happy to say that through the RCIA enlightened by the Church’s teachings, and opportunity to attend the RCIA classes. are given instruction on spiritual growth the Church in a different, more classes, I have had an opportunity to be my desire to know and experience more of They opened the door to a world of and enter more fully into the life and in-depth format,” she said. “The exposed to the most beautiful love of Jesus, this sacred faith grew,” Tricia said. “I found blessings I may not have been able to unity of the parish community. Normally, classes have helped me grow to through the Catholic faith,” says Tricia myself longing to experience the grace experience in any other way. RCIA has also catechumens and candidates fulfill various understand God’s love and mercy. Brown, a candidate who was received into of God through the Eucharist, and I saw connected me with people who share the stages of formation according to where Also, being taught by people the Catholic Church at the Cathedral of the that the Church’s strong moral teachings same values as I do, and support me in my they are at in their faith journey, under the passionate about the faith makes As Director of the Office of Worship for the diocese, Fr. Nick Schneider was also part of Holy Spirit last November. “Prior to taking nurture trust, service, and humility. My walk with Christ.” guidance of their parish priest. me even more excited to become the Rite of Election Sunday. the classes I had many preconceived views new-found faith has brought my family Generally speaking, the Church “What I hope those participating in our Catholic!” of Catholicism and the Catholic Church. My closer together as well. We are all learning prescribes five “stages” or “periods RCIA classes receive from attending is a Ultimately, RCIA members attendance at RCIA each week brought me about the Catholic faith together and enjoy of formation” for the catechumenal deeper understanding of the love Christ has are not only to be cared for and to the realization that Catholicism would exchanging new facts with each other each process: evangelization (or inquiry), pre- for them through the gift of our Catholic prayed for, but they are also faith,” says Deb Martinek, Director of to be treasured. In a sense, Faith Formation at the Cathedral of the they are one of the Church’s Holy Spirit. “There have been inquirers greatest gifts because they are a who come from a very learned Christian continual reminder to us all of background, but have read themselves into the extraordinary—and entirely the doctrines of Catholicism and cannot undeniable—action of the Holy turn away; some mistakenly tuned into Spirit, radiantly alive in the Body Real Presence Radio and couldn’t stop of Christ today. They show us listening until they desired to receive that Mother Church is the home the sacraments; some have simply been of our hearts and souls, and that, encouraged by their friends to learn tragically, many people live their more about Catholicism and through the entire lives without ever coming to process of formation have come to love the the peaceful “home” that life-long presence of Christ in the Eucharist. I try to Catholics can easily become too meet them where they are at and answer “used to.” any questions they have, and invite them to “I really love serving in the attend our classes to learn more.” RCIA program because I get to And, most importantly, in addition to know the people who are seeking learning about the teachings of the Church, to understand and embrace the the RCIA process helps catechumens and great love that God has for them,” candidates discover the awesome power of Deb shared. “To watch them grow God as He speaks intimately to their hearts. in faith through the sacraments the Church offers is such a gift. It “One time, I was asking a catechumen serves as a continual renewal of my about their experience so far with the own faith as I journey with them process, and they told me that they had felt toward Christ.” Bishop Kagan spoke to catechumens as part of the RCIA program in the diocese. Diocesan Choir Director Lillian Bielinski led the group in music at the Rite of Election. 10 | Dakota Catholic Action APRIL 2017 Financial education center on SMCHS new campus Choice Financial partners with school Choice Financial has partnered “One focus with Light of with Light of Christ Catholic Christ Catholic Schools is to Schools to build the fi rst fi nancial help our students carry their education center at a North knowledge and faith beyond the Dakota high school. classroom walls,” stated Gerald Their donation of $2 million Vetter, President of Light of will build the Choice Financial Christ Catholic Schools. “The Business Center at the site of overwhelming support we are the new St. Mary’s Central High receiving for this effort is an School in north Bismarck, which is answer to a great deal of prayer set to break ground in fall 2017. To and will serve as a blessing to our date, $23.1 million has been raised students, families and community in the campaign. for years to come.” Light of Christ Catholic Schools Plans unveiled in 2015 has one of the state’s most active Light of Christ Catholic Schools Future Business Leaders of unveiled plans for the largest America chapters in the state expansion project in its 138 years with 50 members. The new center of existence in November 2015. will serve as the home for all the Dr. Ron and Ruth Knutson and business-centered academics and their family donated nearly 48 related activities at the school, and acres of land, located just north of Submitted photos a fi nancial literacy program for all Choice Financial CEO Brian Johnson (center) signs the commitment check for $2 million 57th Street and east of Washington Light of Christ students, grades as part of the agreement between the institutions, with Light of Christ Catholic Schools Street in Bismarck, to provide a K-12. President Gerald Vetter (right) and Director of Mission Advancement Tim McCaff rey. new home for St. Mary’s Central “Our shared core values of High School. putting people fi rst and bettering In addition to plans for building the places we live and serve is a new school, the current high what brings us together today for school/middle school on Second this partnership,” stated Brian L. Street will be converted to a full Johnson, CEO of Choice Financial. middle school academy housing “We look forward to helping grades 6-8. Upgrades have been provide students and families a made, and will continue to be world-class learning environment made to the current schools in the Choice Financial Business serving pre-school and elementary Center, and the opportunity to grade students. provide tuition assistance for The rapidly growing interest in families.” Catholic education has spurred the The center will also serve as the need for expansion. Light of Christ home for a strong entrepreneurial Catholic Schools has experienced education focus at the school. a 25 percent increase in students Students will be operating a food in the past fi ve years, with seven truck at local events, learning percent growth in the 2016-17 and managing all aspects of the school year. Representatives of St. Mary’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) group attended business. The food truck was —Submitted information the news conference announcing the partnership. Students are (l-r): Katie Weikum, Ellie donated to the school as well. Jahner, Summer Sturm, Madison Baumgartner, Erin Thomas, Charles Reichert. UPCOMING EVENTS ■ Diocesan Chrism Mass is Fr. Nick Schneider, Fr. Josh Waltz is a weekend retreat experience Tuesday, May 2 at 6 p.m. at the April 10 and Dr. James Link. Registration is sponsored by the Catholic Diocese Cathedral of the Holy Spirit with All are welcome to join Bishop $25 and includes a light breakfast of Bismarck. The weekends are Bishop Kagan. A light reception will Kagan as he celebrates the Chrism following Mass and lunch. Send for anyone of high school or follow. Join Bishop Kagan in giving Mass on Monday, April 10 at 11 information and payment to “A college age (at least 15 years old). thanks for new life and families and a.m. at the Cathedral of the Holy Simple Lenten Retreat for Men”, Search weekends are held at the praying for those who are expecting Spirit. Seating for the public will be Attn: Mike Bichler, 140 Telstar Dr., Badlands Ministries Camp just a child through pregnancy or limited. Bismarck, ND 58503. Contact Mike south of Medora. The next SEARCH adoption. at [email protected] or weekend is April 21-23. Go to ■ Marriage encounter weekends ■ Catholic Daughters Convention 701-471-0985. bismarckdiocese.com/search1 for Invite God into your marriage. May 5-7 more information. A Worldwide Marriage Encounter ■ Living Stations in Minot on The 50th Biennial North Dakota weekend can help you do that! Palm Sunday ■ Women’s retreat in Stanley State Convention of the Catholic Marriage Encounter is 44 hours The Living Stations of the Cross will April 22 Daughters of the Americas will away from jobs, kids, chores, and be performed on Sunday, April 9 at Queen of the Most Holy Rosary in be held on May 5-7 in Bismarck. phones—where married couples 7 p.m. at Our Lady of Grace in Minot. Stanley parish is hosting a women’s The theme will be “Mary, Our can focus just on each other. For In this performance by Minot area retreat entitled “Ordinary Lives, Mother, Help Us to Say Yes! ” The more information, visit ndwwme. youth, silent actors and actresses Extraordinary Mission” on Saturday, convention begins with a vocation org or contact Rob and Angie at and hidden choir members help us April 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 Mass celebrated by Bishop Kagan 701-347-1998. see the sacrifi ces of Jesus during His p.m. Featured guests are author on Friday, May 5 at noon. Business passion and death, as well as the John Wood and musician Rachael meetings will be conducted on ■ Men’s Lenten retreat in feelings of those who watched Him Ann. Registration fee is $20 and Friday afternoon and Saturday. Williston April 1 suff er and those who caused Him due by April 8. Mail your contact The memorial Mass will be on St. Joseph’s in Williston is hosting a to suff er, all against the background information and fee to Queen of the Saturday at 8 a.m. with a banquet Lenten men’s retreat on Saturday, of heart-wrenching and inspiring Most Holy Rosary, Women’s Retreat, that evening. Installation Mass for April 1 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guest music, lyrics and narration. Don’t PO Box 159, Stanley, ND 58784. For newly-elected state offi cers will be speaker is Jerome Richter, Vice miss this powerful experience on more information, contact Elonda celebrated on Sunday, May 7 at 9 President of Public Aff airs at the Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Davidson at 629-1778 or Elonda. a.m. University of Mary. He will give Week. A free will off ering will be [email protected]. three talks on the Passion of Christ, ■ Mother’s Day brunch May 14 taken to help defray costs of the virtue and the basics of prayer. Cost ■ Quilt show and sale May 6 The St. Joseph’s (Mandan) Knights production. is $20 which includes breakfast and The Church of Corpus Christi of Columbus #2760 is hosting lunch. Register online at stjparish. ■ Mission in New Town Quilters show and sale is Saturday a Mother’s Day Jazz Brunch on com or call the parish offi ce at 701- April 19-21 May 6, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the parish Sunday, May 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 572-6731. St. Anthony in New Town is hosting center in Bismarck. There will be 100 p.m. at St. Joseph in Mandan. There a mission April 19-21 at 7 p.m. each quilts for sale. Refreshments will be will be jazz band entertainment ■ Lenten retreat for men April 8 night. The mission — “Ordinary served and there’s no admission fee. during brunch which will consist of There’s a simple Lenten retreat for Lives, Extraordinary Mission” Contact Susan Tschider 471-0816 omelets, brats, beignets, salad, fruit, men on Saturday, April 8 at the — features Catholic author and for more information. beverages and more. Contact Pete Church of St. Anne in Bismarck. speaker Dr. John R. Wood and at 391-5201 or Pat at 202-9103. Free The retreat begins with 8 a.m. ■ Celebration of New Life Mass musical guest Rachel Ann. will off ering will be taken. The event Mass followed by speakers, and May 2 benefi ts the mission of First Choice an opportunity for prayer and ■ SEARCH weekends for 2017 The public is invited to the Clinic. adoration. Featured speakers are SEARCH for Christian Maturity Celebration of New Life Mass on APRIL 2017 Dakota Catholic Action | 11

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Ag Attitudes JAMES ODERMANN Believe it or not, God has my backside

There is something new to be Both awareness and acceptance the impact of the failures. At those Life on the prairie can be a recognized each morning when I are especially important because times, I realize my humanity—be little gruff, but St. Matthew really venture outside, especially at this there is nothing to accept if I it lack of cognitive skills, energy, presented an opportunity on how time of the year. Spring truly has do not recognize the changes. desire, or other personality to mold my life. And, the line from “sprung” and it is such a blessing. Spring’s awakening is such a defi ciencies—is the reason. The Jesus really hit home, “Do not The real blessing is that I don’t testament to the power of nature, quick and dirty answer is to blame worry about tomorrow; tomorrow know what waits until I get into God’s manifestation in the world. God, but if I really dissect the will take care of itself.” the infi nity called space, the As I explore the changes from issue completely, the fault lies in Believe it or not, God really has outdoors that stretch upward nightfall to daybreak, I need management decisions, which rest my backside. Will I trust in God? forever. I may be somewhat to realize each sunrise is a new at my door. It is my choice, my free will. I pray prepared by the weather report beginning, a time to start over. But, this brings me to especially to fully commit during and my visual appraisal before Sometimes, however, the nagging opportunity. The Sunday Mass this Lenten season and for the rest heading outside. It is a good thing failures of the previous day (a readings for the six weeks prior of my life. Care to join me? to know a little bit about the tractor stuck in the mud, a calf or to Ash Wednesday were fi lled ■ Odermann lives with his wife, Leona, on moisture, wind and temperature. lamb that was unable to survive, with messages of hope, of how to the family farm in Billings County. They It certainly wouldn’t be a good a patch of fall seeded plants that live, especially the Gospels from are members of the Church of St. Patrick in Dickinson and assist with eucharistic thing to head out with a parka on froze off, a frustrated partner, Matthew. How powerful they celebrations there as well as at the Churches a 70-degree day or walking shorts shingles peeled off a structure by were, causing me to go back to of St. Bernard (Belfi eld) and St. Mary when it is 20 below zero. wind, etc.) can be overwhelming. them on more than one occasion (Medora). The key is to be aware of the Most times, preparation could to get a glimpse of the templates new creations and to accept them. have avoided, or at least reduced of life.

Fat Tuesday sale Cathedral students hold fundraiser

The fi fth graders at Cathedral held their traditional “Fat Tuesday Sale” on Feb. 28. The sale stems from learning about business and entrepreneurship in math and through a Jr. Achievement volunteer. Teachers Miss Kelsy Power and Mrs. Kay Power organized the project with their students. Each year as part of the math learning, Dakota Community Bank comes to the school to teach the students about debits and credits. They provide students with personalized checkbooks. Students then create businesses and use the checkbooks to manage the money they have in their account to pay for business expenses related to the sale, such as a license to sell, rent space, advertising, etc. Parents of the students donated baked goods for the sale, and students are asked to staff it and do special chores at home in preparation. Students plan the sale, the prices, room set up, etc. Proceeds this year went to The God’s Child Project and the Diocese’s African Mission in their classmate Cameron Naslund’s name. Cameron has been serving as a missionary in Africa with his parents, Brent and Jessica, and sister Chloe for almost three years. —Submitted information

Submitted photos APRIL 2017 Featured Columnists Dakota Catholic Action | 13

Guest Column RON SCHATZ Stewardship: The call

In 1992, the United States The pastoral letter states that essentially a call to be a disciple salvation, to heal the affl icted, to Bishops wrote an excellent we are called to be disciples. of Jesus…Jesus’ call is urgent. He care for one’s sisters and brothers, pastoral letter, “Stewardship: A We must, therefore, fi rst be does not tell people to follow him to give life, to the fullest, as Jesus Disciple’s Response.” Throughout good stewards of our own at some time in the future, but did. 2017, as we celebrate the 25th vocations—discerning, accepting, here and now—at this moment, in Following Jesus is the work of anniversary of this publishing, and following the roles and these circumstances. There can be a lifetime. With every step we take I want to continue sharing my responsibilities to which the Lord no delay.” we are challenged to go further in understanding of the pastoral has called us. Becoming a disciple of Jesus accepting and loving God’s will. letter through a mini-series of The Second Vatican Council had Christ leads naturally to the Two fi nal questions. Do you articles. This is my second article, this advice about our Christian practice of stewardship. These believe that you are “called?” with the fi rst article focusing on vocation: “Every person should linked realities, discipleship and What experiences in your life have “Stewardship: The Challenge and walk unhesitatingly according to stewardship, then make up the reinforced or validated your faith the Choice.” their own personal gifts and duties fabric of a Christian life in which in that call? If you have read it, I encourage in the path of a living faith which each day is lived in an intimate, ■ Ron Schatz is the director of the Offi ce of you to take this opportunity to arouses hope and works through personal relationship with the Stewardship and Resource Development that read it again. If you have not read charity” (Lumen Gentium, 41). In Lord. Shining through countless is responsible for planning and organizing the pastoral letter yet, I pray that the stewardship pastoral letter, individual vocations, this way of diocesan fundraising appeals, capital my thoughts will inspire you to the American bishops took up this life embodies and expresses the campaigns, national and universal church read it. Please contact my offi ce if same theme of personal vocation one mission of Christ—to do God’s collections and diocesan grant research and writing. you would like a copy. saying, “The Christian vocation is will, to proclaim the good news of

Balancing Church & State CHRISTOPHER DODSON Examining opposing views of freedom

Two competing views of Proponents of repealing the the exercise itself is good. It also right to do what we ought.” freedom mark American politics. law made several arguments, such recognizes that forces like the He was not the fi rst person One view considers freedom as the many exceptions in the economy, social behaviors, culture, to say it. Others before him, an absolute right belonging to an existing law and the fact that some and structures of sin can remove including Abraham Lincoln, individual that can be expressed people have to work other days of the ability to choose correctly. had made similar statements. in any manner the individual the week. However, at the heart Corporate farming, gambling, Indeed, the idea is not new. chooses, so long as—at least of most of their arguments was fi rearms, minimum wage, Some attribute the idea to St. according to some views—it does the idea that government “had no zoning ordinances, restrictions Augustine. Whomever expressed not injure another individual or business” telling businesses when on abortion, and limits on it fi rst, it is rooted in the Christian their property. Although labels can to open and close. The sentiment pornography are other examples of understanding of human life. be imprecise, we can call this the expressed the individualistic or when these competing viewpoints It expresses, on one level, deep individualistic or libertarian view libertarian view of freedom. What reveal themselves in North Dakota theological lessons about Christ’s of freedom. mattered to these individuals was politics. crucifi cation and resurrection; The other view either considers not whether the common good This tension between competing about what it means when we say freedom as a limited right, subject was served by the law, but the fact views of freedom is not refl ected that Christ set us free. to what is good for the life and that the law infringed on what they the usual left/right political On another level, it expresses dignity of human persons and the considered an absolute right of the spectrum. The “left” often holds truths about how we should communities in which they live, individual. an individualistic view of freedom structure society. Saint John Paul or sees freedom not as a right all, Opponents also made several when it comes to matters of sex II understood this connection but a condition that allows people arguments. Some legislators and gender. The “right” often between the salvifi c action of to choose rightly. We can call felt that protecting time for the holds an individualistic view of Christ and the Church’s social this the communal or traditional Sabbath was important. Others, freedom when it comes to matters teaching. He also understood how conservative view of freedom. including the North Dakota of property, business, and guns. the erroneous view of freedom Adherents to either view Catholic Conference, contended There were Republicans and underlies problems ranging from can reach the same conclusion that communities and families Democrats on both sides of the abortion to excessive consumerism about some issues. For example, prosper best when they have Sunday closing issue. even as he understood the dangers both would object to socialist or a common period of rest and The Catholic view rejects the of statism through communism. collectivist programs. recreation. At the heart of these individualistic view of freedom Notably, his famous statement Sometimes the two perspectives arguments was the idea that and teaches something more akin about freedom was not presented are incompatible. Legalization government’s job is to provide to the communal view. to audiences in the newly of drugs, assisted suicide, and the sum conditions necessary The most important teacher on freed Poland or the struggling minimum wage laws are a few for the development of persons freedom in recent memory was democracies of Africa or Asia. He examples. and communities, especially the St. John Paul II. His experience said it on one of his visits to the Consistency eludes the human family. Implicit in this view is in communist Poland and his vanguard of freedom, the United condition, so politicians are not the belief that some things are exposure to individualistic errors States. I don’t think he meant it as always consistent. Nevertheless, more important than business in the West made him uniquely congratulatory. I’m sure he meant trends develop and they reveal and property rights. This position suited to refl ect and teach about it as a warning. refl ected the communal or themselves in the arena of public authentic freedom. His most ■ Dodson serves as executive director of the traditional review of freedom. It policy. The fi ght over the Sunday famous quote on the subject is: N.D. Catholic Conference, the offi cial liaison morning closing law in North views freedom not as a right to “[F]reedom consists not in doing for the dioceses of Fargo and Bismarck in Dakota is one example. be asserted without limit, but as what we like, but in having the matters of public policy. a virtue that is only good when 14 | Dakota Catholic Action APRIL 2017

Pope Francis ABBEY NAGEL Being aware of God’s presence

Some of the recent headlines us with the tools necessary to revolving around Pope Francis are fi ght temptation, and this wasn’t his comments comparing the use necessarily just reading the of our cell phones to the use of our Bible every 10 minutes, this was Bibles. At fi rst I didn’t think much meditating on the Word of God of this. Sure, we need to work on and living it, every moment of detachment from our phones (at every day. It means having a heart least I do), but is what the Pope that is aware of the presence of suggesting really the best solution? God; more aware of God than of After some more thought and our phones! prayer, I discovered the deeper As we all strive to live the life Submitted photo meaning to what he was saying. of good Christians and Catholics, At fi rst glance, here are his keeping the word of God on our words, “Someone said: what hearts and practicing the presence Bishop Zipfel sends his greetings would happen if we treated the of God throughout our days is Fr. Josh Waltz recently visited Bishop Zipfel who sends his Bible like we treat our cell phone? vital. This presence should become greetings to the people of the diocese. Bishop Zipfel retired in 2011 If we always carried it with us; more consuming to us than our and resides in Missouri near his family. or at least the small pocket-sized cell phones. Essentially, this is Gospel, what would happen?” what Pope Francis is trying to tell He continued, “You forget us. your mobile phone – oh! I do not These words stuck me and have it, I go back to look for it; helped me dive into the second if you read the messages of God part of Lent more focused on being contained in the Bible as we read aware of God’s presence in my life. Questions the messages of the phone…” Even if I can’t literally pick up a I understood that the Pope was Bible every 10 minutes, I can say I was afraid to ask trying to get us to depend more on a quick prayer or tell God about the Gospels, on the word of Christ, what’s going on in my heart. I can FR. FRANK SCHUSTER than on our cell phones. But, at the call to mind the fact that that God same time, it didn’t seem realistic is with me. What is prayer groan inwardly while we wait to me to be reading a couple Going forward, I think that for adoption, the redemption paragraphs of the Gospels every 10 this approach will help my Holy Q: and are there of our bodies.” (Rom. 8:22-23) minutes of my day. Week and Easter celebration be diff erent kinds “Likewise the Spirit helps us in Upon digging into this homily a more fruitful. I don’t think it’s of prayer? our weakness; for we do not little more, I see that he explained too much to ask for me to realize know how to pray as we ought, himself better than what I had the presence of God more than but that very Spirit intercedes grasped initially. He said, “As the presence of a cell phone. I The Catechism of the with sighs too deep for words.” Christians we are called to follow invite you to listen to our Holy Catholic Church says (Rom. 8:26) in the footsteps of Jesus and Father’s advice, and join me in A: this about prayer, “The Prayer of intercession, is to pray address the spiritual battle against this endeavor to increase our elevation of the mind as Jesus did. To intercede on the evil with the power of the Word of recognition of God’s presence in and heart to God in praise of behalf of others, just as Jesus God. For this, you must become our daily lives. his glory; a petition made to does for us, especially sinners. ■ familiar with the Bible, read it Nagel is the executive assistant to God for some desired good, As our intercessor, He is able to the bishop at the Diocese of Bismarck. Her often, meditate on it, assimilate or in thanksgiving for a good “save those who draw close to it.” column on the words and actions of Francis received or in intercession for appears bi-monthly in the DCA. God through him.” In intercessory I saw that he was equipping others before God. Through prayer, “he who prays looks ‘not prayer the Christian experiences only to his own interests, but also a communion with God through to the interests of others,’ even Christ in the Church. (CCC 2559- to the point of praying for those CHRISM MASS 2565).” who do him harm.” (CCC 2635) The fi rst form of prayer we Prayer of thanksgiving will explore is blessing and “characterizes the prayer of the Monday, April 10 adoration. Blessing God is simply Church which, in celebrating the giving thanks for the gifts He has Eucharist, reveals and becomes 11 a.m. at the gratuitously given to us. It is the more fully what she is.” (CCC encounter of the human heart 2637) “The thanksgiving of Cathedral of the Holy Spirit with the divine in graciously the members of the body [the receiving His gifts. The foremost Church] participates in that gift that God has given to us is of their Head.” (CCC 2637) As His Only Son. God, descended to members of the Church, the His creation, so that we would body of Christ, we are to see have the opportunity to ascend that in “every event and need to Him in both our prayer and can become an off ering of with our souls. Adoration is, thanksgiving.” (CCC 2638) in all humility, exalting God by His creatures. An attitude Prayer of Praise, is praising God acknowledging that we are the because God is God. All forms creature and He is the creator. of Christian prayer share in the prayer of praise because they are Prayer of petition, is a turning directed to our Father in heaven. back to God. Turning back Any prayer that is directed to to God requires contrition, a our Father in heaven whether contrite heart. In that turning through Jesus, the saints, or Mary back to Him we “ask, beseech, in one sense shares in praising plead, invoke, entreat, cry out, God who is the author of all that even ‘struggle in prayer.’” (CCC is. 2629) Paul, in his letter to the Romans sees Christian petition ■ Fr. Schuster is the pastor at Church as a continual renewal: “We of St. Hildegard in Menoken and know that the whole creation Sacred Heart in Wilton. If you have a has been groaning in labor pains question you were afraid to ask, now until now; and not only the is the time to ask it! Simply email your creation, but we ourselves, who question to info@bismarckdiocese. com with the “Question Afraid to Ask” have the fi rst fruits of the Spirit, NOTE: due to school children attendance at this Mass, seating is limited. in the subject line. APRIL 2017 Dakota Catholic Action | 15 Featured Columnists Making Sense out of Bioethics FR. TAD PACHOLCZYK I’m not intrinsically disordered!

I have met several priests over sacrifi ce of the Lord’s Cross the around them. A few randomly having been wounded in his the years who ended up leaving the diffi culties they may encounter chosen examples would include: nature by original sin, is subject active ministry of the priesthood. from their condition.” These prostitution, torture, slavery, to error and inclined to evil in Two of them have been on my persons, thus, are children of God, traffi cking in women and children, exercising his freedom,” but the mind and in my prayers recently, unique and loved by the Lord and adultery, abortion, euthanasia, remedy is found in Christ and having left the priesthood and the called to the pursuit of goodness, and homosexual acts. As noted in “the moral life, increased and Church over issues connected to chastity and holiness. in the Catechism, homosexual brought to maturity in grace.” homosexuality. I ran into one of The notion of an “intrinsically acts “are contrary to the natural Thus, intrinsically disordered them some time ago by chance as disordered” act (sometimes also law. They close the sexual act acts, while always destructive to we were boarding the same fl ight. called an intrinsically evil act) has to the gift of life. They do not ourselves and to others, do not Filling me in on the decisions he been part of the Church’s moral proceed from a genuine affective put us outside of the eventual had made, he shared: “I was never teachings for millennia. Such acts, and sexual complementarity.” Or reach of grace and mercy, nor happy with the Catholic Church’s as Pope John Paul II noted in his as noted in another important beyond the healing effects of view that homosexuality is 1993 encyclical Veritatis Splendor, teaching document called Persona repentance. Rather those acts inherently…” and then he paused, “are by their nature ‘incapable of Humana, “homosexual relations and their harmful effects should “…what’s the phrase they use?” being ordered’ to God, because are acts which lack an essential beckon us towards the loving gaze I replied: “homosexual acts are they radically contradict the good and indispensable fi nality.” of the Lord as he invites us to intrinsically disordered.” of the person made in his image.” Even though men and women seek a higher path, one in which “Ah, yes, intrinsically Even the best of intentions, he may engage in intrinsically we renounce wrongdoing and disordered,” he replied. “It’s a stressed, cannot transform an act disordered acts at various points resolutely embrace the freedom of harsh institution that would call that is intrinsically evil into an act in their lives, that fact clearly the sons and daughters of God. me intrinsically disordered, and I that is good or justifi ed. does not make them “intrinsically ■ Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his couldn’t remain in a Church that Many kinds of acts fall under disordered persons,” or “evil doctorate in neuroscience from Yale and did held those views.” The second the heading of an “intrinsic individuals.” We’re reminded of post-doctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest priest who left had similarly evil,” representing seriously the old adage that we are to love of the diocese of Fall River, MA, and serves decried how the Church, on the sinner and hate the sin. The as the Director of Education at The National damaging choices for those Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. See account of his homosexuality, saw who pursue them and for those Catechism sums it up well: “Man, www.ncbcenter.org. him as intrinsically disordered— which he took to mean that he was an evil person. I was saddened at the way both of these former priests misconstrued the teachings of the Church, and disappointed that they couldn’t see how we are not defi ned by our inclinations and proclivities, even if some of them may be disordered and in need of purifi cation. As fallen creatures, every person faces disordered desires within, and no one is perfect except, we Christians believe, Jesus himself. Once when I was speaking with a person who was paralyzed, he shared how members of the disability community had given him some good advice after his accident: “Don’t say you are a disabled person, because that lets the disability defi ne you. Say instead that you are a person with a disability.” With a similar emphasis, people shouldn’t pigeonhole themselves by saying: “I’m a homosexual,” but instead say: “I’m a person with When Should Kids “Tell?” homosexual inclinations.” Our inclinations don’t defi ne us, since we are free to decide whether Kids have an unwritten code: Don’t “rat” on your ì5ROHSOD\VLWXDWLRQVWKDWVKRXOGEHUHSRUWHGWR we will act on them, or resist peers. Loyalty to friends and loved ones and fear a trusted adult. of rejection or retaliation are understandable. them. The process of resisting ì5HLQIRUFHWKDWWKH\QHHGWRNHHSWHOOLQJXQWLO But in today’s society where abuse, drugs, violence, someone listens and does something. our disordered desires can be and other dangers are prevalent, children need to very diffi cult, but contributes recognize the importance of reporting dangerous ì'RQåWNHHSLWDVHFUHW,I\RXFKLOGFRPHVWR\RX or unsafe situations to a trusted adult. with a serious concern regarding themselves or signifi cantly to our own growth DSHHUOHWWKHPNQRZWKDWWKHLVVXHQHHGVWREH and spiritual maturation. How you can help: reported to someone who can do something that When referencing men and ì7DONDERXWWKHGLIIHUHQFHEHWZHHQWDWWOLQJDQG FDQKHOSPDNHLWVWRS7KLVPD\LQFOXGHDQRWKHU women “who have deep-seated WHOOLQJ7DWWOLQJLVGRQHWRJHWVRPHRQHLQWURXEOH parent, school personnel, and/or the police and 7HOOLQJLVGRQHWRKHOSVRPHRQHRUNHHSWKHPVDIH social services. homosexual tendencies,” the Catechism of the Catholic Church ì6SHQGWLPHHYHU\GD\OLVWHQLQJWR\RXUFKLOG ì3UDLVH\RXFKLOGIRUGRLQJWKHULJKWWKLQJE\WHOOLQJ 7KH\DUHPRUHOLNHO\WRFRPHWR\RXDERXWELJ emphasizes that such individuals For more information on keeping kids safe, WKLQJVLIWKH\NQRZ\RXOLVWHQWRWKHPZKHQWKH\ call (701) 323-5626. must be accepted “with respect, share little things. compassion, and sensitivity. Every ì%HIRUHDQLVVXHDULVHVKHOS\RXUFKLOGLGHQWLI\ sign of unjust discrimination in adults in their life that they can tell if they feel their regard should be avoided. unsafe or in danger. These persons are called to fulfi ll God’s will in their lives and, if 052002-00091 1/17 they are Christians, to unite to the 16 | Dakota Catholic Action APRIL 2017

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Gentlemen, mark your calendars for the Thirst 2017 Men’s Conference sponsored by the Marillac Manor Diocese of Bismarck and held at the University of Mary a senior housing complex in Bismarck on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017. sponsored by the Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery, currently has openings in the Plan to be present for some engaging presentations, Eucharistic adoration and Confessions, a Vigil Mass with Bishop Kagan, studio style apartments. and of course – a time of fraternity and support with other men We have a vibrant community with of faith from throughout the Diocese. many social and religious opportunities Dads, plan to bring your sons of high-school age and older including a chapel with daily Mass. along with you to this special event, which happens only Please contact Angie at 701-323-1871 every 3 years. for further information or to schedule a tour at 1016 N. 28th St. in Bismarck. The Conference is FREE! Marillac Manor is now a Prospera Community Register now at bismarckdiocese.com/thirst2017

Pat Dolan, FICF Aaron Mahlmann, FIC, LUTCF General Agent, Fargo Bismarck (701) 298-9922 701-222-2755 [email protected] [email protected]

P ROT E C T WH AT M AT TE R S MO S T Frank Greff, FICF, LUTCF YOU R LI FE . YOU R FA MI LY. YO U R F U TU R E . Mike Vetter Dickinson Minot 701-483-8839 701-837-0135 [email protected] [email protected]

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