THE MAGAZINE OF THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF JOLIET

DIOCESEOFJOLIET.ORG JANUARY 2015

Cristo Es Nuestra Esperanza

SIX PILLARS TO BUILD A VISION OF EXCELLENCE

A REPORT ON CATHOLIC EDUCATION IN THE DIOCESE OF JOLIET

FROM THE BISHOP Parents Matter.

FEATURE God Speaks.

LAST WORD Go Out and Make Disciples.

DIOCESEOFJOLIET.ORG 1 from the BISHOP

the faith….They should associate them from their tenderest years with the life of the ….Parents PARENTS MATTER have the mission of teaching their children to pray and to discover their vocation as children of God.” (CCC #2225-6). This view of the domestic church, and the parents’ he delegates to the Extraordinary Synod of role within it, is one of the primary reasons that the T Bishops on the Family, held in Rome last pastors of the Church are so strong in upholding October, issued a report of their discussions that the “traditional” definition of marriage as a lifelong will serve as a starting point for the Ordinary Synod covenant of mutual self-giving between a man and next October. This report often speaks of the a women that is open to children and devoted to “domestic church,” a term frequently used in other their upbringing. Bishop R. Daniel Conlon, church documents when referring of the family. Fulfilling the obligations of marriage and Diocese of For example: parenthood has never been easy. Even the Holy Joliet Family had its moments. Specifically with regard Within the family, “which could be called to the role of parents, the delegates to the a domestic church” (Lumen Gentium, 11), extraordinary synod last October acknowledged a person begins a church experience of that “the crisis of faith has led to a crisis in marriage communion among persons that reflects, and the family and, consequently, the transmission through grace, the mystery of the Holy Trinity. of faith itself from parents to children has often “In a family, a person learns endurance, the been interrupted.” They went on to say in their joy of work, fraternal love and generosity report that “[o]ne of the fundamental challenges in forgiving others—repeatedly at times— facing families today is undoubtedly that of raising and above all, divine worship in prayer and children, made all the more difficult and complex the offering of one’s life” (Catechism of the by today’s cultural reality and the great influence of , 1657). the media. Consideration, then, needs to be given In the Christian life, the reception of to the needs and expectations of families who are "The task baptism brings the believer into the church able to bear witness in their daily lives to the family of parents through the domestic church, namely, the as a place of growth in the concrete and essential today, with a family, thus beginning “a dynamic process transmission of the virtues that give form to our [that] develops, one that advances gradually existence.” secularizing with the progressive integration of the gifts of I often ask myself, where would I be without trend in God” (Familiaris Consortio, 9), in an ongoing my parents? I don’t mean just biologically. Being culture conversion to a love that saves us from sin firm in faith, my parents laid for their children a and the and gives us fullness of life. strong foundation. They were not reluctant to pray with us, to teach us by word and example a life of breakdown The family, then, is a “school of faith,” or what discipleship and to show us how to function as of marriage the report of the extraordinary synod calls the members of the Church. To the best of their ability, and other “essential agent in the work of evangelization.” they were intentional about being a “domestic supporting When Catholic parents present their children for church.” baptism, they promise to bring up their children The Church understands that her own life depends structures, “according to the law of Christ and His Church.” largely on the strength of family life, as does the life has probably The ’s decree on education of society in general. The task of parents today, with never (Gravissimum Educationis) asserts that “[t]he role a secularizing trend in culture and the breakdown been more of parents in education is of such importance that of marriage and other supporting structures, has it is almost impossible to provide an adequate probably never been more difficult, and never more difficult, and substitute.” Indeed, all of the educational programs essential. Mighty is the hand that rocks the cradle. never more that the Church offers for children are intended Having just celebrated the feast of the Holy essential." only to assist parents in their responsibility as the Family, I am mindful of the challenge that parents primary educators of their children. have to form their children as disciples of Christ The Catechism of the Catholic Church stresses and members of the Church and to orient them on this truth by stating that parents “should initiate the path to eternal life. May Jesus, Mary and Joseph their children at an early age into the mysteries of guide and strengthen them.

2 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 ESPAÑOL del OBISPO

os delegados al Extraordinario Sínodo de los con la vida de la Iglesia….. Padres tienen la mision L Obispos sobre la Familia, celebrado el pasado de ensenarles a sus hijos a orar y a descubrir su octubre en Roma, emitieron un reporte de sus vocación como ninos de Dios” (CCC #2225-6). discuciones que serviran como punto de partida Este punto de vista de la iglesia domestica, y el para el Ordinario Sínodo el proximo octubre. Este papel de los padres en ella, es una de las razones reporte a menudo habla de la “iglesia domestica,” primordiales que los pastores de la Iglesia son tan un termino frequentemente usado en otros fuertes en la defensa de la definicion “tradicional” documentos de la iglesia como refiriendose a la de el matrimonio como un pacto mutuo para toda familia. Por ejemplo: la vida entre un hombre y una mujer que es abierta a ninos y dedicados a su crianza. Cumpliendo con las obligaciónes de matrimonio Dentro de la familia” lo que podria ser llamada y de padres nunca ha sido facil. Incluso la Sagrada la iglesia domestica” (Lumen Gentium #11), Familia tuvo sus momentos. Especialmente con una persona comienza una experiencia de “La tarea de respecto al papel de los padres, los delegados de el communion con la Iglesia entre las personas los padres Extraordinario Sínodo el octubre pasado reconocen que reflejan, atraves de la gracia, el misterio que “la crisis de fe a creado una crisis en el matrimonio de hoy, con de la Santisima Trinidad. “En una familia, una y en la familia y consequentemente, la transición la tendencia persona aprende resistencia, la alegria de de fe de padres a hijos ha sido interrumpida.” trabajar, amor fraternal y generocidad de secular en la Ellos siguieron diciendo en su reporte que “ uno perdonar a otros – a veces repetidamente – y cultura y el de los desafios fundamentales que enfrentan las sobre todo la oracion divina y el ofrecimiento familias hoy es indudablemente esa de criar a los rompimiento de su propia vida” (Catecismo de la Iglesia ninos, siendo mucho mas dificil y complejo en la de el Católica #1657). cultura de hoy en dia y la enorme influencia de los En la vida cristiana, la recepcion de el matrimonio medios de comunicación. Consideración, debe ser bautismo trae al creyente a la iglesia a traves y de otras otorgada a las necesidades y expectativas de la de la iglesia domestica, a saber, la familia, familia que son capaces de ser testigos en su vida estructuras asi empezando “ una proceso dinamimo que diaria de familia como un lugar de crecimiento en la de apoyo, lo desarrolla, una que avanza gradualmente con concreta y esencial transmicion de las virtudes que la integracion progesiva de los regalos de Dios” han hecho dan forma a nuestra existencia.” (Familiaris Consortio, 9), en una convension probablemente A menudo me pregunto, donde estaria sin continua a un amor que nos salva de el pecado mis padres. No me refiero solo biologicamente. más difícil, y y nos ofrece una vida de plenitud. Siendo firmes en la fe, mis padres impusieron a nunca mas sus hijos una base solida. No estaban renuentes a esencial.” La familia, entonces, es una “escuela de fe,” o orar con nosotros, de ensenarnos con palabras y como el reporte de el extraordinario sínodo lo llama ejemplos una vida de disciplina y ensenarnos como “agente esencial en el trabajo de evangelizacion.” funcionar como miembros de la Iglesia. Usando su Cuando los padres católicos presentan a sus mejor capacidad, ellos intentaron hacer una “iglesia hijos en bautismo, ellos prometen criar a sus hijos domestica.” en “acuerdo con la ley de Cristo y de Su Iglesia.” La Iglesia entiende que su propia vida depende El Segundo Decreto del Concilio Vaticano de grandemente en la fortaleza de la vida familiar, asi la educación (Gravissimum Educationis) afirma como lo hace la sociedad en general. La tarea de que “el papel de los padres en la educación es los padres de hoy, con la tendencia secular en la Obispo R. Daniel tan importante que es casi imposible proveer cultura y el rompimiento de el matrimonio y de otras Conlon, un substituto adecuado.” En efecto, todos los estructuras de apoyo, lo han hecho probablemente la Diócesis programas educacionales que la Iglesia ofrece más difícil, y nunca mas esencial. Poderoso es la de Joliet a los ninos es destinado solamente a asistir a los mano que mece la cuna. padres en su responsabilidad como educadores Habiendo justamante celebrado la fiesta de la primordiales de sus hijos. Sagrada Familia, yo estoy consciente del desafío El Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica afirma esta que tienen los padres de formar a sus hijos como verdad cuando dice que los padres “deben iniciar a discipulos de Cristo y miembros de la Iglesia y de sus hijos a una edad temprana en los misterios de orientarlos en el camino de vida eterna. Que Jesús, la fe…. Ellos deben asociarlos en su edad mas tierna María, y José los guían y les de fuerzas.

DIOCESEOFJOLIET.ORG 3 LOCAL NEWS

NEW WEBSITE OFFERS SHORT permission to study for the diocesan EXCERPTS ON FRANCIS’ priesthood. “THE JOY OF THE GOSPEL” Having completed his studies at St. Mary of the Lake Seminary Pope Francis’ apostolic in Mundelein, Father Kenny was exhortation, called “The Joy of ordained to the priesthood on the Gospel,” which was released May 28, 1966, by Bishop Romeo last year, provides a vision for Blanchette at the Cathedral of St. discipleship and evangelization in Raymond and was assigned to the 21st century. Since these are St. Alexander Parish in Villa Park. key themes in the new diocesan Subsequent assignments were at Framework for Pastoral Action, the St. Isaac Jogues Parish in Hinsdale diocesan Newman Institute has endeavors; the Knights believe in (1970) and St. Michael Parish in created a website for sharing the the work Daybreak does to help Wheaton (1974). pope’s text – in bite-sized chunks. those in need." Father Kenny was named pastor “We have created a format for The donation of food and coats was of St. Andrew Parish in Romeoville people to subscribe to read one in support of the Knights of Columbus (1975); St. Mary Parish in Downers paragraph per Supreme Council's Food for Families Grove (1982) and St. Thomas the day starting and Coats for Kids Initiatives. Since Apostle Parish in Naperville (1994). January 1, 2015,” 2009, more than 215,000 coats have After his retirement in June of 2002, said David Spesia, been donated to needy children, and Father Kenny responded to a desire the director of since 2012, more than $2.7 million to serve the poor as a missionary. He the Newman and 3.8 million pounds of food have contacted the St. James Society, and, Institute. “Call been donated to food pantries, food although not a member, he served it a Christmas banks and soup kitchens by Knights with the society first in Bolivia, then present to yourself, make it a New of Columbus councils in the United in Ecuador, until his return to the Year’s resolution, or just accept it as States and Canada. United States in June of 2014. a chance to walk with Pope Francis Knights of Columbus Holy Trinity as he shares the joy of the Gospel.” Council 4400 was founded in 1957 COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC NURSES To access the site in order to in Joliet and is located at 1813 East OFFERS SCHOLARSHIP read a paragraph a day from “The Cass St. For additional information, Joy of the Gospel, go to www. visit www.kofc4400.com or call Each year, the Council of Catholic AJoyWhichIsShared.org or scan the 815.723.3827. Nurses of the Diocese of Joliet QR code with your smartphone. offers a $500 scholarship to a FATHER DONALD KENNY DIES senior nursing student enrolled in a LOCAL KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS baccalaureate program in a college or COUNCIL HELPS OUT THE NEEDY Father Donald Kenny died on Dec. university. The eligibility requirements WITH DONATIONS 9, 2014. He was 81. for the applicants include: Donald Kenny was born on March • Currently enrolled in a Knights of Columbus Holy Trinity 30, 1933, in Chicago to John Joseph baccalaureate nursing program in Council 4400 recently donated Kenny and Catherine Hurley Kenny, a college or university. The student a case of children's coats and and was baptized at St. Gall Church may be an undergraduate or RN more than 500 pounds of food in Chicago. He was educated at St. completion student. to Daybreak Center. The food Leo Elementary School and St. Leo • Enrolled in the senior year , or and coats were purchased with High School in Chicago; Iona College one of last two semesters, of the proceeds from the club's 5th in New Rochelle, N.Y.; St. John program in September 2015. Annual Car Show held in October. University in New York City. • Currently registered in a Catholic In making the donation, Rick Evans, For eight years, he served as a parish in the diocese. the car show chairman, said "It is member of the Christian Brothers of In order to be considered for the important for us to support our Ireland until 1959. After a brief stay scholarship, eligible students should: local community in our charitable with the Franciscans, he requested complete an application; provide

4 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 Local news continues on page 22 6

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COVER STORY

YOUR LIFE YOUR FAITH YOUR STORY GO OUT AND MAKE DISCIPLES 6 Reflecting on the Gift 9  Two Stars from the East. 12 Six Pillars to Build a of Catholic Education. Vision of Excellence. What are the next steps 10 The Pope's Theologian. for the "Framework for 7 Rebecca’s Journey. 18 God Speaks. Pastoral Action?" 11  The Life of a 8 The Blessed Mother: Consecrated . 20 The Gift of Time. Our Guide Toward Jesus.  SEE PAGE 23

Most Reverend Christ is our Hope (USPS 25288) is a membership publication of the Catholic Diocese of R. Daniel Conlon Joliet, 16555 Weber Road, Crest Hill, IL 60403. Published monthly. Gift subscription rates PUBLISHER are $15 per year. Individual issues are $2.50. Send all subscription information and address The magazine of the changes to: Christ is our Hope magazine, 16555 Weber Road, Crest Hill, IL 60403; 815.221.6112 Catholic Diocese of Joliet Edward P. Flavin Jenny Bis or email [email protected]. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Christ is DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE our Hope magazine, 16555 Weber Road, Crest Hill, IL 60403 ©Christ is our Hope magazine, OF COMMUNICATIONS GRAPHIC DESIGNER Diocese of Joliet. ©FAITH Publishing Service. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Publishing January 2015 Carlos Briceño Liza Carrion Service. No portion of Christ is our Hope magazine may be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise reproduced or distributed in whole or in part without written authority Volume 8: Issue 1 EDITOR SPANISH TRANSLATOR of the Diocese of Joliet and/or FAITH Publishing ServiceTM. For reprint information or other questions regarding use copyright material, contact the Christ is our Hope magazine editorial • To submit story ideas and news, send e-mails to [email protected]. offices at the Diocese of Joliet. Periodicals postage paid at Romeoville, IL and at additional • For subscription information, Please call 815.221.6112. mailing offices.COVER PHOTO BY WAYNE BARANOWSKI OF WAYBA PRODUCTIONS.

DIOCESEOFJOLIET.ORG 5 your life FEATURE me. Community, faith formation, The seed of my vocation was again and academics were the reasons they fostered in gentle ways at my Catholic gave. The families they saw at Mass school. To this day, that bookmark Reflecting on the each week were the families involved is reminder of the gentle love and in the school. My parents wanted guidance that God has shown to me Gift of Catholic to be a part of this thriving and joy- throughout my life. Education filled community. Further, they knew Further, our parish was blessed the Catholic school would reinforce with a saintly pastor. Father would the faith that our family lived at visit the school often, and his genuine t their 2014 national home and provide the necessary interest in us was evident. He was a STORY BY Ameeting, the bishops of formation for our academic, social, man who loved the priesthood, the Sister Cecilia the United States reaffirmed and moral development. Finally, parish, Catholic education, and the Joseph, OP, a member of the essential role that Catholic they noted the impressive overall sacraments. Later in life, as I was the Dominican schools play in providing “lasting results that Catholic schools preparing to enter the , I was Sisters of faith formation, vocations to produced in comparison to other trying to figure out ways to pay off St. Cecilia and the religious life and priesthood, academic institutions. My parents my college debt. I went to Father principal of high educational attainments, were willing to make the sacrifices to ask for his assistance, suggesting St. Jude Catholic School and communities of the New needed to provide us with this type of I speak at Masses, etc. He listened in Joliet Evangelization.” At the end of education. I deeply appreciate now, and told me to come back the next this month, Catholic schools even more than I did back then, the day to let him know exactly the across the country will celebrate sacrifices they made to provide for us. amount needed. Father took care of Catholic Schools’ Week. This The seed of my own vocation was my college debt. While he passed to annual week of celebration gives nourished during those formative his eternal reward a few years ago, I us the opportunity to reflect years. While the academic education continue to pray for him, indebted for upon the important role Catholic I received prepared me to meet the all that he did for me, and I continue education plays in the life and demands of high school and beyond, to ask him to intercede on my behalf. mission of the Church. it was the religious formation that As we celebrate Catholic Schools made the biggest impact on my life. this month, I ask you to pray for As a Catholic school teacher, and As part of our “Student of the Week” all those involved in Catholic now as a principal, I believe in the highlight in third grade, I remember education and for our schools inestimable value of an authentically my teacher asking me what I wanted and please consider the gift of a Catholic education. My own life to be one day. Without hesitation, I Catholic education for your children and vocation has been marked in remember telling her that I wanted or grandchildren, or consider a profound way by the formation to be an archeologist – or a sister! supporting your local Catholic I received during my nine years in Even at that tender age, I could school through prayers and financial a Catholic elementary school, four sense God speaking to my heart and assistance. May many more young years in our parish youth group, calling me to serve Him in some men and women come to know, and in the Catholic universities I way. My ability to answer to this call love, and serve Jesus Christ through have attended. Now, as a Dominican years later began with the formation this tremendous gift. Sister of St. Cecilia, I have given my provided by my Catholic school and life to Jesus Christ in furthering His parish youth group. mission, marked in a unique way by St. John Paul II often stated that our community’s work in Catholic “in the plans of Divine Providence education. there are no mere coincidences.” I am For parents, the choice of a filled with gratitude for two people school is one of the most important from my earliest years in school who decisions they make in their child’s assisted me in my journey. On the life. I often speak to parents about the first day of 8th grade, my teacher, an priceless gift of a Catholic education Ursuline sister, placed on each desk and the task that our schools play in a bookmark with a short Scripture assisting them in their role as primary verse. My verse read, “Here I am educators of their children. Reflecting Lord, send me” (Is. 6:8). At that time, on my own education, I recently I had a sense that I needed to hold on asked my parents why they chose to that note, that God was speaking Catholic schools for my and to me through these simple words.

6 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 your life CATHOLIC CHARITIES

patient medical care. Without a home or the ability to pay rent, Rebecca was homeless. But then she learned about Catholic Charities’ Hope House homeless shelter in DuPage County. Rebecca qualified for services at Hope House and was able to enter the shelter directly from her rehab facility. “I was crying when I arrived at Hope House,” Rebecca recalled. She was grateful to have a place to stay, but found it difficult to cope with the fact that she was homeless. After a short stay there, Rebecca and her son “From the moved into a transitional housing apartment in a bottom of quiet neighborhood, where the young man quickly made lots of friends. Upon the advice of her case my heart, manager, Rebecca enrolled in Catholic Charities’ Out I’m so of Poverty classes, which she found extremely helpful grateful to and inspirational. Out of Poverty is an eight-session Catholic program that focuses on striving for personal change. The program is intended for individuals whose lives Charities,” are habituated and sustained in some form of poverty. Rebecca Participants learn that change is possible as they follow said. “The Rebecca’s Journey a step-by-step process within a group setting. agency Out of Poverty classes provided Rebecca with a much-needed support system. When she graduated has been ebecca is a spiritual woman who grew up from the program, she had gained genuine friendships a blessing R in a village in Liberia, a country located in and an understanding of what she could achieve in life. in my own West Africa, and moved to the United States as “I can do anything I want to do,” she explained with life… and an adult. Although she’s been in this country excitement and confidence. Today, Rebecca is taking for many years, Rebecca enjoys celebrating her classes and working toward earning her G.E.D. She for so many native culture. She often cooks traditional African continues to heal physically and is learning to walk others.” cuisine for her 12-year-old son and friends. with prosthetics. She also makes better food choices to Rebecca describes herself as a peaceful person, control her diabetes. which she says is the way she was raised. In “From the bottom of my heart, I’m so grateful to healthier and happier times, she loved to dance. Catholic Charities,” Rebecca said. “The agency has been a blessing in my own life… and for so many others.” Rebecca struggled through a heartbreaking divorce Hope House provides housing and supportive and worked hard as a certified nursing assistant to services to individuals and families who are homeless support her son as a single mother. This small family often due to a situation like divorce, job loss or was self-sufficient until Rebecca was forced to stop depleted savings. During a short stay, participants work working due to complications from diabetes. She toward securing employment and permanent housing. received devastating news – both of her legs needed to be amputated. When Rebecca went to the hospital to have her surgery, she left her son with a trusted friend STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY Hope House provides the only 24-hour until she could return. Knowing that she would be BY unable to continue paying rent without an income, she crisis hotline (800.941-8681) to assist Maggie Snow moved out of her apartment. in the single point of entry process for After the difficult surgery to remove her legs, Rebecca homeless services in DuPage County. To entered a rehab facility to begin learning how to walk learn more about Hope House and the and care for herself again. Although she worked hard to other programs and services provided by physically heal, she became depressed and didn’t know Catholic Charities, Diocese of Joliet, visit where she would live after she was released from in- www.catholiccharitiesjoliet.org.

7 your life ASK THE PRIEST The Blessed Mother: Our Guide Toward Jesus

y family is half-Italian, on my mom’s side. Therefore, we have held on to some of the beautiful Mediterranean traditions which clearly M prove that the Italian culture is the world’s richest (sorry, I could not help myself). Ravioli for Christmas – salad always after. Later on, sfogliatella and cannoli (pronounced svoyadel and kanolee). The house is always loud and lived in: if no one is yelling, someone has died. Walking into the house, the first thing you do is give mom a kiss on the cheek; do not dare forget nonna!

STORY BY Likewise, entering the new year, we should has shown us already that His promises are not Father Michael never forget to give our Lovely Mother a kiss empty. Pawlowicz, a parochial vicar and ask for her blessing. The Church begins You, too, are called to become images of at St. Mary's the secular year with the Feast of Mary, Mother the great mother of God. Mary bore Christ Parish, West of God, rejoicing that in her womb the Ancient physically; you are called to bear Him in your Chicago. of Days has become for us Emmanuel (“God is soul. Mary remained pure of heart in order to with us”) and begging that her intercession lead serve only God; you, too, are called to delight us to give birth to the same Christ in our souls. in according to your state in life. Mary Mary is the symbol and proof that our Father is abandoned herself to God’s will; you, too, are faithful and makes good on His promises. called to trust that God is truly a Father. Mary By her Immaculate Conception, she was made followed Christ and pondered His words in her the most pure Temple of the . By her heart; you, too, are called to contemplate the presentation at the temple, she was consecrated divine things. Mary suffered with Christ and as the Tower of Ivory. By Gabriel’s , became a partaker in sanctifying the world; so she was made the new Arc of the Covenant. By also you, when near the Cross, continue Christ’s Christ’s miraculous nativity, she was made the salvific work. Mary hoped and was raised body Mother of Life. In her life, she was made the and soul into heaven; likewise, you will one day first disciple. By her presence at the Cross, Mary see the resurrection of the body. was made partaker in her Son’s passion. By This new year, do not forget to kiss you her assumption, she was made the hope of the Mother and show her your love. In Mary, God resurrection of the body. By her coronation, she has already achieved everything that He wishes was made into the queen of heaven. to bring to pass in you. Make her your patron The whole of the Christian life is summed and guide toward Jesus, so that, with her, you up in Mary. The virtues of purity, trust, may one day say “All generations will call me discipleship, long suffering, hope and charity blessed, the Almighty has done great things for are all found profoundly within her so that we me, and holy is His name” (Luke 1:48). may know, hope and trust that Christ’s promises to us are possible and true. When we praise Correction from last month's column and venerate and celebrate Mary, we are not A quote was incorrectly cited from Lumen doing these things for her sake; she is already in Gentium. It didn’t come from paragraph heaven. She has no need of our praise. Rather, number four. Instead, it came from paragraph when we praise Mary, we thank God that He number three.

8 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 your faith FEATURE

TWO STARS FROM THE EAST

rophet Daniel visions STORY BY Father Scaria P that those who lead Thoppil, CMI, many to justice shall an associate be like stars forever pastor at St. Mary of Gostyn (Daniel 12:3). The saints Parish in are stars shining on Downers Grove. the firmament of the Church. The Church the idea to lead an eremitical life. locality.” They practiced their needs saints; better The bishop asked them to start a contemplative and austere life in if all the members of which would benefit the monastery, which naturally the Church are saints the people for their growth in culminated in the instruction shining like stars. holiness. To the bishop they were and guidance of the people; with the learned of the . The priests retreat preaching; with publishing also were very happy about that. books; and with starting schools in Incidentally, the two professors every parish imparting education On Nov. 23, 2014, Pope Francis died one after another of old age to people without regard to their "... Those declared six more members of and the whole burden of initiating color or class. Father Kuriakose who lead the Church saints. Of them two and nurturing the order fell on the insisted in educating people of the many to are from Kerala, India: Father shoulder of Father Kuriakose. The lower classes of the society, which Kuriakose Elias Chavara and path ahead was not at all easy for was a taboo in a tradition based justice shall Sister Euphrasia Eluvathingal. him. The people supported him on castes. Thus, he became the be like stars The people in the Diocese of with donations. Eleven other priests pioneer of reform in the culture of forever ... Joliet like many others world over and a layman joined in this pursuit castes of that time. Old-age homes The saints are, in a special way, spiritually of holiness, and in 1831 the order and orphanages were also results of connected with them. Carmelites was named the Servants of Mary outreach to the people. He started are stars of Mary Immaculate, CMI, and Immaculate. an order for the uplift of the women shining Congregation of Mother Carmel, The influence of Carmelite in collaboration with the Carmelite on the CMC, are religious orders co- missionaries modified the name missionary Father Leopold Beccaro, firmament founded by St. Kuriakose. The later to CMI. The order cherished a co-founder of the CMC. far sightedness of St. Kuriakose a special devotion to the blessed St. Euphrasia, who was also of the benefited largely the Church of Mother and to the Holy Family. canonized on Nov. 23, was a Church." Kerala. The spiritual movements Since they made their first vows member of the CMC order. She extend their service to 22 different in 1855, Father Kuriakose was was born in 1877 of a committed countries in the world with five the prior of the monastery. Until Catholic couple. She joined CMC CMI priests working in different his death in 1871 he was the and took her vows in 1900 and took parishes in Joliet Diocese. unanimously accepted prior of the the name Euphrasia. Her letters tell St. Kuriakose was born on Feb. community. The order flourished us about her mystical experiences. 10, 1805, of devout Catholic and more were started Leading a very simple life, she parents and was baptized as was the at various places, and Father excelled in charity and prayer. custom at the time after eight days Kuriakose was fondly called by all Among her sisters she was a “moving in the local parish church. Having the “Great Prior.” tabernacle.” She has been known entered the seminary in 1818, he The Great Prior wanted the “the praying mother” and people was ordained to the priesthood in members of the order to grow in approached her for prayer help in all 1829. The illustrious student and holiness and tirelessly “do whatever their needs. She continues to do the two of his seminary professors had is the need of the people of the same now, from heaven.

DIOCESEOFJOLIET.ORG 9 your faith STORY BY CATHOLIC Father John LIFE Welch, O.Carm.

The Pope’s In particular, Kaspar points to Not a Soft Christianity the testimonies of women saints This accent on mercy does not Theologian such as St. Catherine of Siena, lead to “cheap grace.” Biblical St. Therese of Lisieux, St. Teresa stories relate both mercy and ardinal Walter Kaspar is Benedicta of the Cross (Edith justice. Kaspar writes, “Mercy is Ca prominent theologian Stein), and St. Faustina Kowalska. the heart of the biblical message, who recently wrote a book, As a theologian, Kaspar bemoans not by undercutting justice, but by “Mercy: the Essence of the fact that academic theology surpassing it.” In his mercy God the Gospel and the Key to has lagged behind the spirituality holds back His wrath in order to Christian Life.” He gave a of these saints. His book provides provide people an opportunity for copy, in Spanish, to Pope a theological foundation for conversion. “Mercy is ultimately Francis. After reading the the pope’s emphasis on God as grace for conversion.” merciful. The prophet Hosea is the high cardinal’s book, Pope Francis Kaspar observes that the world point of the Old Testament’s said, “This book has done today calls for a recovery of the portrayal of God as merciful. me so much good.” Gospel’s central message: our God is The prophet presents God as compassionate and merciful. Many disappointed in His people and In his book, Cardinal Kaspar people are seeking meaning in their threatening to destroy them. But argues that mercy is central in lives and searching for a purposeful God relents, saying “For I am God the Bible. Theology speaks about path. These “anonymous pilgrims” and no mortal, the Holy One in the many attributes of God, wait in hope for a message that your midst, and I will not come such as all-powerful. The saints, corresponds to their yearning. in wrath” (Hos 11:9). Kaspar however, were witnessing to one This renewed emphasis on God’s concludes that “Mercy is the particular attribute, God’s mercy. mercy has been gaining ground expression of His divine essence.” in recent decades. St. John XXIII, In the , certain in opening the Second Vatican parables of Jesus capture the Council, said the Church has essence of God. In particular the often condemned errors with great story of the Prodigal Son (or, severity. “Nowadays, however, the better, Merciful Father) movingly Spouse of Christ prefers to make portrays God’s compassion. When use of the medicine of mercy rather the son repents and wishes to than that of severity.” return home, the father does not St. John Paul II wrote an wait for the son to arrive, but encyclical on mercy, saying rushes to meet him and embrace justice alone is not sufficient. He him. The best cloak and a great canonized Faustina Kowalska, meal are given the son. Music who affirmed that mercy is the and dancing convey the joy in the FranzMayerstainedglass©CreativeCommons greatest of God’s attributes, and he father’s house. established the Sunday after Easter But it is Jesus Himself who not as Divine Mercy Sunday. only proclaimed the mercy of God, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI but also lived it. His ministry of continued this theme. The pope compassion and healing lifted wrote a social encyclical “Caritas the spirits of the weary and gave in Veritate,” in which he says love, strength to the burdened. Cardinal not justice, is the starting point for Kaspar attests that “the deepest the church’s social teaching. He truth about God is that God is reminded the reader of his earlier love.” We are the recipients and encyclical on love in which he conduits of that love. The cardinal affirmed: everything has its origin in and Pope Francis are challenging God’s love, everything is shaped by it, all of us to be the visible everything is directed toward it. expression of a merciful God.

10 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 STORY BY your faith Carlos Briceño FEATURE

THE LIFE OF A CONSECRATED VIRGIN

magine being married to the Son of God. That is what life is like being a consecrated virgin. It is a life of service to the Church in the world. Those called to a life of consecrated I make a total gift of themselves to Christ, the Bridegroom of the Church, just as a bride makes a total gift of herself to her husband in the sacrament of marriage. This gift also tends to motherhood, but it is a “motherhood of the spirit … so that a great family of children may be born, or reborn, to the life of grace” (from the Rite of ). Consecrated virgins are not considered to be – meaning, they are not associated with the Religious Life, as part of a congregation, such as the Franciscan Sisters of the Holy Heart – and so they live out in the world, rather than in community. They don’t make vows, but are consecrated for life.

Some of her responsibilities include to the Church. A consecrated the following: virgin usually offers her free time The Year of to a parish or to the diocese or Consecrated • A consecrated virgin is some association that is Church- Life was responsible to pray the Liturgy sponsored. announced of the Hours. A woman who becomes a last year by • She regularly receives the consecrated virgin is one who has Pope Francis. sacraments and is faithful never been married or lived in open It began to private prayer, including violation of chastity and, because during the the praying of the and of her maturity, level of prudence First Sunday Eucharistic Adoration. and good character, is deemed of Advent • She keeps as a special focus of by the bishop as being suitable during 2014 her prayer the intentions of her for a life as a consecrated virgin. and will bishop and the clergy and the Usually, someone who becomes a end on Feb. needs of her diocese. consecrated virgin has worked with 2, 2016. In Saint Agnes by the months • She accepts the teachings of Domenichino, a spiritual director and has lived a the Church and of Sacred circa 1620 life of perpetual virginity for some ahead, the Scriptures and should perform years before seeking to petition the magazine will works of mercy. bishop to become a consecrated virgin. be celebrating The consecration of virgins is one of the oldest the year According to 604, the consecrated virgin is sacramentals in the Church. It was restored by the with articles "consecrated to God, mystically espoused to Christ Second Vatican Council. Consecrated virginity pre- focusing on and dedicated to the service of the Church, when the dates religious life. Some of the early saints mentioned consecrated consecrates [her] according to the in the Mass, such as Agnes, Cecilia, and Lucy, were life. approved liturgical rite." consecrated virgins. The Blessed Virgin Mary is the Because she is in the world, she does not wear a model of this vocation. or habit. She lives her vocation individually, although Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI summed up the life of she may have other consecrated virgins whom she sees a consecrated virgin in the following way during an as friends or for mutual encouragement. She does not international meeting of consecrated virgins in Rome look for the diocese to support her in 2008: “Take care always to financially or for other material radiate the dignity of being a bride needs, such as medical care or of Christ, expressing the newness retirement benefits. of Christian existence and the She does not have one particular serene expectation of future life. apostolate that she associates with, Thus, with your own upright life so that means she can choose you will be stars to guide the world her own way of being of service on its journey.”

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12 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 DIOCESEOFJOLIET.ORG 13 14 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 DIOCESEOFJOLIET.ORG 15 16 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 DIOCESEOFJOLIET.ORG 17 your story FEATURE

of information? I needed professional, reliable advice. So, naturally, I turned to my 17-year-old best friend. Me: I don’t know what I should do “when I grow up.” What are you going to study in college? Her: I decided a long time ago to be a nurse. I’m going to get my degree in that. Me: A nurse? That’s brilliant! What a stroke of genius! My dad was a doctor; my brother was in medical school. This was obviously pre-ordained. I proudly told my mom that I wanted to be a nurse. Smiles and cheers and plans and four years later, I was a cum laude graduate with a Bachelor Noriko Buckles @ www.nbucklesphoto.com Noriko of Science Degree. God was directing me to my career through my God Speaks friend’s voice and vocation. At the time, anyone could rightfully have accused me of “copying.” But why can’t hat kind of toothpaste should I God work that way? He knew where I’d go for counsel. buy? Should I have two cups of My girlfriend became his clear voice, leading me to a coffee today? Should I buy this nursing career I enjoyed for over 30 years. Whouse, take this job, run for public office? We God Speaks Through Endless Paperwork all face choices every day. After I graduated from college, I moved back home to live with my parents. During that year and a half, I worked the evening shift at a local hospital. But that wasn’t my I want to make the best decisions I can in all the dream. I wanted to work on an Indian reservation. areas of my life. Maybe you are like me, wanting to be I had no experience in reservation living; I’d never open and alert to the voice of God. Prayer can often even seen one. But for some reason, that’s the job that provide the quiet environment to hear the Lord, but really appealed to me. sometimes silence is all that greets me. The application process was endless frustration. I I would think to myself, “If I don’t hear Him, I’ll think the actual application – it was written in those STORY BY just have to wait for another time when He’s speaking days – was eight pages long. Talking to the same person Ceil Ryan louder. Or I’m listening better.” at the Bureau of Indian Affairs was like trying to break D'Acquisto, But why do I limit Him to only speaking to me boulders with plastic spoons. Undeterred, I filled in a parishioner at every line, got my physical, submitted my registered St. Pius X in prayer? I end up boxing God into a neat little in Lombard. package of my own making. I sure hope God isn’t a nurse license; I did it all. And then I waited. claustrophobic. It’s awfully confining in that little space. And waited. PHOTOS BY Like a master carpenter, He has a variety of tools. In the meantime, I had agreed to move to Arizona Noriko Buckles. Communicating in prayer is definitely one of them. But with my nurse friend, Sue. She was moving to Tucson there are so many more. More than I could imagine. to be with her boyfriend, and she had a line on a job at the county hospital. I was aiming for a specific God Speaks Through a Friend reservation position in Arizona, so we were headed in Back in the day, I had already passed through my airline the same direction. stewardess and religious life desires. Now that I was a By the time we had planned to move, I was sure I’d junior in high school, I had to seriously face that eternal have my clearance, and my new job on the reservation question: what do you want to be when you grow up? would be secured. Yes, I was a praying person. But it was not the kind Still living at home, the months passed, while I of prayer that paused to listen. It was more like a anticipated that phone call. It wasn’t coming, and I soliloquy, a constant stream of hopes and dreams and couldn’t seem to follow up with the same person. I’d frustrations. God would have to find another way to always reach a very cheerful, concerned person, but communicate with me. that government office must have had a ka-billion I liked history, hated math and didn’t understand employees. I couldn’t establish a consistent contact. physics. AT ALL. But what could I do with this mash-up Finally, one month before our date to move, I got

18 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 Ceil's blog can be read at www.ceilryan.com

through to the hiring manager for the reservation. The room reeked of paint. “Are you almost done?” “Oh! You wanted that job? I just hired 12 new “It’ll be ready tomorrow.” nurses. If I’d only known!” Oh Lord, I’m not going back to that crowded one Whaaaa? You must be joking. My paperwork had bedroom apartment; please don’t make me. been in for more than a year. I had called and spoken I must have looked exactly like I felt, because the guy to a parade of secretaries and office staff. My name offered to hold the contents of my car at his place. He must have been on every Post-it note in that building. I lived in the same complex. was floored. Totally out of character for me, I agreed. I was What was God thinking? I hung up that phone and desperate. A headache was just waiting to explode, was absolutely devastated. My neat plan was in flames even though I hadn’t spent much time in the paint- at my feet. No Snickers bar felt safe for three days. soaked room. Help me hang on, Lord. I have to go back Can the Lord work through man-made bureaucracy? to that sardine can of an apartment for one more night. I guess He can, because He miraculously blocked Why is everything so difficult? Knowing my application and assorted extra paperwork. Not to You know, that toolbox of God’s must be as big as four that answers mention making sure I spoke to the entire Department Craftsman rolling tool carts. And I know I am slighting of the Interior over all the months I called. Do you Him with that analogy. Now He’s using my landlord and come from know they finally issued me the happy news there was paint cans to box me out of my little slice of heaven on unexpected a job opening 18 months later? I just laughed. By then, earth. Seriously? Lord, do you love me at all? my life was somewhere else. The answer to that question was, as you might places has There’s a saying that goes like this: “If you want to guess, a resounding “yes.” After one more night, I made me so make God laugh, tell Him your plans.” God was certainly triumphantly moved into a freshly painted apartment. laughing, but not at my expense. I know that now. He Because of those fumes, I made my first friend in much more had a plan, and the reservation job was not a part of it. Arizona. The painter was a student at the University of aware of my Arizona, so I got to prowl the campus with him. Even go God Speaks Through Paint Fumes to some of the sporting events. If I had been able to move surroundings. I did move with my friend to Tucson. Why not? If I in on that first day, I doubt I would have ever met him. Blessings couldn’t get the position I wanted, I could at least be in the state I wanted. Moving without a place to stay or a God Speaks and burdens job didn’t concern me at all. After landing in Tucson, The real reason I: 1) lost the reservation job, 2) abound, yes, within a week, I had a job at one of the city hospitals. moved anyway, 3) waited for painting day to be over, The housing was another story. I couldn’t find an and 4) unloaded my life with a stranger was because but now I apartment. There I was, crammed into a one-bedroom God had a plan. Two years after our first awkward know that apartment, with Sue, her boyfriend, and the cat. I was meeting, the painter and I were married. desperate for a place to live. Thank goodness for Sue. Turn by turn, while I moaned and complained and God is talking She found two apartments, so she gave me the wondered why God enjoyed torturing me so much, I to me in all address of the one she passed over. Alleluia! On move- was moving closer to His will. All this craziness just to in day, I jumped in my Dodge Dart, filled with my life, meet the man I would marry. And, to prove that God of them. and headed over to my “first ever” apartment. has that sense of humor you always hear about, we Driving up to the duplex, I noticed that my front discovered that we grew up about a half an hour from door was open. Alarm bells. Now what? I walked up each other. He moved to Arizona to go to school. I to the door and peered into the living room, my living moved, well, to meet him. room. My eyes locked on a man, perched on a ladder Knowing that answers come from unexpected places painting the walls. has made me so much more aware of my surroundings. There’s a stranger in my new apartment? Come on. Blessings and burdens abound, yes, but now I know What’s going on here? Everything I own is crammed into that God is talking to me in all of them. All creation my car like a jack-in-the-box clown. I’m really beginning sings its songs trying to get my attention, to tell me that to hate this move. Whose idea was this in the first place? His love is everywhere. Yes, the answers we seek are all Oh yeah, mine. This makes me hate it even more. around us; they just might be disguised in frustration. “Why are you here?” I may think that God has left the building, but He’s “Um…well…the owner asked me if I wanted to make really right here. He’s smiling, knowing that I’ll be so some extra money, so…” I’m sure he was as surprised as I surprised when I find out His plan. was. Some crazy lady is invading his side job. And you know, I usually am.

DIOCESEOFJOLIET.ORG 19 your story FEATURE

THE GIFT OF TIME

The following is the seventh in a series of articles relating to the Affirmation Project, which is a diocesan effort to inform people on the formation and education of .

he vast majority of permanent deacons T are married men with families. The majority of these Deacon Will Marrero men are also working full and his wife, Anne. time in order to support their families. As those with with his family life and of having work was not impacted by ministry families know, responsibilities a negative impact on his family. because work entails very specific at home and at work take a There is no simple answer to these and concrete responsibilities as well great deal of time, especially if questions that fits everyone, but I’d as obvious consequences for failing there are still children at like to share how I tried to answer to meet those responsibilities. But home. Husband and wife these questions while discerning the consequences for neglecting need time together not only a call to the diaconate and how family are not always as up front to manage the house but to I continue to try to answer these and obvious, so it can be easy questions after ordination. to sacrifice family time for the nurture their marriage. Let’s begin with the practical. diaconate without realizing it. Children require time for There is no question that the Deacons must constantly be on the checking homework, for diaconate will demand a significant lookout to make sure their families attending sporting events and amount of time from the deacon. don’t suffer. school performances, for The deacon and his family must So if the time cannot come from learning how to ride a bicycle be aware of this fact. They must work time or family time, where or how to kick a soccer ball, enter formation with their eyes does it come from? In my case, and for just feeling loved. open, expecting that there will much of the time had to come from be significant demands placed my own personal time, the time With all these demands on his on his time. The time spent in I spent surfing the web, watching time, how can a man with a family ministry will affect the family. It television, or reading. I had to make find time to serve as a deacon? How will be the job of the deacon, and a conscious decision to give up a does the time spent in ministry his wife, to make sure that the good part of my personal recreation affect the deacon’s family? I get impact is minimized and remains time. I came to the realization that, these questions quite often. They manageable. Sacrifices will need to if I was going to spend a significant are very important questions to ask be made because that time has to amount of time preparing for and because there is a very real danger come from somewhere. It usually serving in the diaconate, then the of a deacon’s ministry interfering isn’t too difficult to make sure that rest of my time, the time outside of

20 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 work and outside of my ministry, wives support their husbands in only for ourselves. Our time, our belonged to my family. I cannot a very visible and direct way by life, is a gift meant to be shared with give up all of my personal time teaming up with them as catechists others. It is by giving of ourselves without burning myself out, but I or to give pre-Cana presentations, that we find the real meaning in our have to continually force myself to or by serving with them at soup lives. If God is calling a man and really think about the time I take kitchens and nursing homes. But all his family to serve Him in this way, for myself and to make a conscious the wives support their husbands in then they will find true joy in the decision as to whether or not that a much less visible way: by picking sacrifices they make. Accepting that time wouldn’t be better spent up the slack around the house call does requires trust and hope. with my wife or with my children. when their husbands are “out there” In fact, when it came time for my Managing my time is an important working in the community. In both wife to sign the form giving her responsibility, and I need to make cases, the support the wife gives her permission for me to be ordained, an honest assessment of how best to husband is essential to the deacon’s I couldn’t help be reminded of use my time. Part of that is realizing ministry. the moment fourteen years prior that the time I have is a gift from All wives have sacrificed a part when we gave ourselves totally to God. It is a gift meant not so much of their married lives so that their each other in marriage. Back then, for myself, but meant to be used in husbands can respond to the we didn’t know what the future the service of others. Lord’s call to serve. I cannot count would bring, but we did know that In the five years since I have been the number of times someone we would be there for each other. a deacon, I have found that I still can has expressed gratitude to me for We were confident that we were find time for myself, but that I don’t giving up my time to help when, following God’s will, and we placed need nearly as much time as I used really, they should be thanking our trust in Him. When she signed to think I needed. Because my time my wife. She is the one who took that form, a very similar wave of is such a limited resource, I have the kids to practice one evening to emotion came over me. In a very learned to better prioritize it. And free me up to visit someone at the real sense, we were placing our lives during those times when I come hospital. She is the one who did in God’s hands once again. to the realization that my family the dishes for me so that I would My family has only just started STORY BY needs my time more than I do, the not be late to the wake service. She this journey, but we can honestly Will Marrero, decision to put down the book or to is the one who helped the kids with say that the diaconate has been a deacon at turn off the television or computer their homework the nights I had a blessing for us. Despite the Ss. Peter and has become easier to make. I have to give a presentation at RCIA. She challenges, or perhaps in part Paul Parish in also become more proactive about even coached a soccer game the because of the challenges, our faith Naperville. finding time with the kids. I used to one day I was at the parish, and has been strengthened and our love take it for granted that I’ll always be the head coach called our house, for each other has continued to able to spend time with them later. saying he couldn’t make it to the grow. The call to serve as a deacon This is no longer the case. In a sense, game. And those times when I have has truly been a gift, a gift that we the diaconate has taken that excuse failed to keep all my commitments are very glad we accepted. away from me, and so I place more in balance, she is the one who importance on my time with my has reined me back in. She is the family than I used to. one who points out when one of Despite his best efforts, the the kids needs more of my time deacon is never 100-percent because I have failed to see it. successful in isolating his family The diaconate is a very large time My family has only just started from his ministry. This is one commitment for the deacon and place where the contribution his family so why would anyone this journey, but we can honestly say that of the deacon’s wife is essential. agree to do it? It only makes sense if the diaconate has been a blessing for us. No married man is ordained to God is the one who is calling. God Despite the challenges, or perhaps in part the diaconate without his wife’s doesn’t force us, He only invites. because of the challenges, our faith has permission. Her permission is The time we have been given on necessary because she will be this Earth is a gift from God, but been strengthened and our love for each making sacrifices as well. Some it is not a gift we are meant to use other has continued to grow."

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LOCAL THINGS NEWS TO DO continued from pg. 4

the committee with two considered unless all of letters of recommendations: the information requested one letter from a nursing is received. All materials Steve Angrisano in Concert Feb. 27 faculty member and one should be sent to: Steve Angrisano is a versatile ministry leader who letter from clergy at the shares a passionate message of faith, hope and love parish in which the student Nanci Peek MSN, RN woven throughout his music. He will be appearing in is currently active (home or Scholarship Committee concert at St. Mary Immaculate Parish in Plainfield campus); and provide a copy Chair on Feb. 27 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for general of his/her student transcript 12762 Scoter Court admission and $20 for reserved seating. Contact from the current college or Plainfield, IL 60585 the Office of Young Adult and Youth Ministry if you university. have any questions at [email protected] or The deadline for For more information, 815.221.6235. Or go to the following site to order application is April 1, 2015. contact Nanci Peek at: online: http://dioceseofjoliet.org/yaym/content1. Applications will not be [email protected] php?secid=4

22 Christ is our Hope | January 2015 your story LAST WORD

Go Out and STORY BY Tony Molinaro, the team Make Disciples leader for the Framework for Pastoral WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS FOR THE Action’s Planning "FRAMEWORK FOR PASTORAL ACTION"? Committee.

STRENGTHS AND WEAKNESSES Within yourself, your ministry, The Framework for Pastoral Action is the your parish, or your Catholic diocesan vision for building community and organization, determine the strengthening faith. It has three pillars: strengths and weaknesses relating to the pastoral focus discipleship, evangelization and charity. areas. What is being done well For more information on the framework, go to and can it be improved even www.dioceseofjoliet.org/pastoralplan. more? Where are we falling short and how can we adjust What follows are some steps that Catholics our efforts? Understand what can take in order to incorporate the framework resources and cooperative into your lives and parishes. efforts may be needed.

DEVELOP INITIATIVES The framework includes many pages of ideas and actions that can help to jumpstart creative pastoral efforts. FIRST OF ALL: PRAY INITIAL ASSESSMENT These initiatives came from Read through the seven focus From an individual point parish forums, surveys, and areas, which are: cultivate lay of view, assess your own discussion groups of people discipleship; inspire young pastoral efforts as they from across the diocese. adults; embrace immigrant relate to the three pillars in Choose which ideas could be Catholics; welcome the lost the pastoral framework and useful and act on them. and drifting; proclaim the how they relate to the seven sacraments; care for people in areas of focus. If you are part GO OUT need; advocate for and with of a parish ministry, along Don’t just sit and talk. Don’t the voiceless. Look at the with your pastor, assess how just plan and analyze. Go vision, the guidance, and the well you are addressing the outside your doors to embrace, prayer reflections within the pillars and the focus areas. encourage, inspire, care for document. Pray about your Also look beyond the parish and proclaim. As Pope Francis own pastoral efforts. If you structure and assess how any explains, “We cannot passively are part of a ministry, pray Roman Catholic organization and calmly wait in our church about the pastoral work being addresses the key areas buildings; we need to move accomplished. Pray for the within the Framework for from a pastoral ministry to a guidance of the Holy Spirit. Pastoral Action. decidedly missionary ministry.”

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OUR LADY OF MERCY, DIVINE MERCY AURORA PARISH, LOMBARD

This magazine reaches you each month courtesy of your parish, generous donors and the Diocese of Joliet.