PASTORAL PLAN A Snapshot of American Catholics / 10

FEATURE STORY The Countercultural Journey of A Doctor and His Wife / 14

SPECIAL REPORT Religious Freedom and the Hobby Lobby Supreme Court Decision / 16

THE DESPAIR OF INFERTILITY – and the Hope of Adoption From the Bishop

Keep Holy the Sabbath bserving a weekly holy day of worship and services – she may at times excuse a rest has been part of Judeo-Christian person from this expectation of keeping Sunday as a day of rest, but these religious life since Moses received the 10 exceptions should never lead to general Commandments from God on Mount Sinai. disregard of this precept. A generation ago, it was easier to maintain It takes discipline and planning OSunday as a day of prayer and leisure as most stores and to ensure that Sunday is truly a day business were closed on this day and school activities different from any other, scheduling were curtailed. However, in our day, Sunday is seen by the weekend so that the necessary and usual tasks are done on Saturday. Our many people and by society as a whole as just one more celebration of Sunday should revolve day of the week to catch up on chores at home, extra around participation in Mass and the work from the office or shopping. What does it mean to rest of the activities of day should flow keep holy the Sabbath? from that. Keeping Sunday special can also include how we dress on this day Rooted in the account of God Himself be observed as the foremost day of for Mass. “Sunday best” doesn’t mean resting on the seventh day after the obligation in the universal Church” that Mass attire has to be expensive or creation of the world, the Sabbath (CCC # 2177). More than just a extravagant, just appropriate, modest observance is a model for human life man-made regulation, the obligation to and neat, reflecting the tremendous and activity. In the Old Testament, attend Sunday Mass “is a testimony of privilege and honor it is to encounter the practical implications of this belonging and of being faithful to Christ our Lord in the Holy Eucharist. Try to commandment were spelled out very and to His Church. The faithful give reserve the rest of Sunday for sharing a precisely. The early Christians eventually witness by this to their communion in meal and other family activities, visiting moved the observance of the Sabbath faith and charity. Together they testify with loved ones and friends who need from the seventh day of the week to the to God’s holiness and their hope of companionship, and generally allowing first day of the week to commemorate salvation. They strengthen one another yourself to decompress from the usual the day of the Resurrection as well as under the guidance of the Holy Spirit” activities of the hectic work week. In his Pentecost. By the early 4th century, the (CCC #2182). As Sunday Mass is 1998 apostolic letter, Dies Domini (The Church had established Sunday as a “the foundation and confirmation of all Day of the Lord), St. John Paul II wrote day of worship and rest. Christian practice,” a Catholic can be a beautiful reflection on observing and The observance of the Sunday excused from this obligation only for a celebrating this weekly holy day. Sabbath is centered on the celebration most serious reason (CCC #2181). The Sunday Sabbath is a precious of the Holy Eucharist. The Catechism The Church also continues to observe gift from God that helps us keep our of the Catholic Church (CCC) reminds the Sabbath as a day of rest, providing lives in proper perspective and balance. us that “the Sunday celebration of the a divinely inspired rhythm of work and Taking a day to worship God and away Lord’s Day and His Eucharist is at the leisure. “The faithful are to refrain from from normal work reminds us that we heart of the Church’s life ... and is to engaging in work or activities that hinder belong to God, that all we have comes the worship owed to God, the joy proper from Him and all depends on Him. Yes, to the Lord’s Day, the performance of our work and efforts are important, but The Sunday works and mercy and the appropriate ultimately they must find their purpose relaxation of mind and body” (CCC and meaning in our relationship with the Sabbath is a #2185). God gave us the Sabbath for Lord if they are to be truly good and life- He knew as human beings we need to giving for ourselves, our families and precious gift from God take time away from the usual routine of our world. Keeping holy the Sabbath that helps us keep our labor and activity, to allow our spiritual, helps make that possible. family, cultural and communal lives to lives in proper be renewed and refreshed. The Church Auxiliary Bishop recognizes that – in the complexity Joseph Siegel perspective and balance." of today’s world, family needs, the Christ is our Hope I N I T V E D RA demands of certain jobs and social August 2014 OMINE SPE

2 Christ is our Hope / August 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org star pendiente Eucaristía el corazón de la iglesia viviente cualquier otro, programando el fin de del día santo ... y debe ser observado como el día semana para que las tareas urgentes (domingo) más importante de la obligación en la y necesarias se realicen el sábado. semanal de Iglesia universal" (CIC #2177). Aunque Nuestra celebración del domingo hecha por hombre como una regulación, debe girar en torno a la participación adoración y la obligación de asistir a la misa del en la Misa y desde ahí el resto de Edescanso es parte de la domingo "es un testimonio de riqueza las actividades del día deben brotar. vida religiosa judeo- y de fidelidad a Cristo en Su Iglesia. Mantener el domingo especial, también cristiana desde los diez Los fieles feligreses son testigos por su puede incluir la forma en que nos mandamientos que Moisés comunión en la fe y en la caridad. Juntos vestimos para la misa. Esto no quiere recibió de Dios en el Monte dan testimonio de la virtud de Dios y su decir que el vestimento tiene que ser esperanza a la salvación. Se fortalecen el caro o extravagante, puede ser simple, de Sinaí. Antes, como hace uno al otro guiados por el Espíritu Santo" modesto y adecuado y que refleje el una generación, era más (CIC #2182). El domingo de misa es enorme privilegio y honor de encontrarse fácil de mantener el "el fundamento y la confirmación de la con nuestro Señor en la Sagrada domingo como un día de práctica cristiana", un católico puede Eucaristía. Hacer el esfuerzo de reservar oración y de pasatiempo; ser libre de tal obligación sólo por razón el resto del domingo para compartir una la mayoría de tiendas y grave (CIC #2181) cena y otras actividades entre familia, La Iglesia también continúa visitar a sus seres queridos y amigos que negocios estaban cerrados observando el sábado como un día de necesitan el compañerismo y en general en este día y las actividades descanso, proporcionando un ritmo de permitiéndose relajarse del trabajo escolares se estacaron. De inspiración divina de trabajo y ocio. " arduo de las actividades habituales de la hoy en día, sin embargo, el los fieles se abstendrán de entregarse semana. En su carta apostólica 1998, domingo es visto como un a trabajos o actividades que impidan el Dies Domini (El Día del Señor), San día más de la semana como culto debido a Dios, la alegría propia Juan Pablo II escribió una hermosa del día del Señor, la reflexión sobre la un y corriente por mucha práctica de las obras observación y la gente y por la sociedad, de misericordia, el El domingo celebración de este sólo para ponerse al día con descanso necesario día sagrado. las tareas en el hogar, el del espíritu y del como día de El domingo como cuerpo" (CIC día de reposo es un trabajo extra de la oficina o reposo es un don de compras. ¿Qué significa #2185). Dios don precioso de Dios nos dio el sábado que adecuadamente santificar el día de reposo? porque sabía cómo precioso de Dios que nos ayuda a los seres humanos adecuadamente nos mantener nuestra Adaptado en cuenta de mismo Dios tenemos que tomar vida en perspectiva que el séptimo día descansa después de tiempo fuera de ayuda a mantener y equilibrio. Tomar la creación del mundo, en observación la rutina diaria de un día para adorar a del sábado es un modelo para la vida trabajo y actividad, nuestra vida en Dios fuera de trabajo humana y la actividad. En el Antiguo para permitir ser diario nos recuerda Testamento, este mandamiento esta restaurados y perspectiva y que pertenecemos a específicamente deletreada muy precisa renovados en nuestra Dios, que todo lo que las implicaciones y prácticas de este espiritualidad, familia, equilibrio." tenemos viene de Él mandamiento. En los tiempos de los y nuestra vida cultural y todo depende de primeros cristianos movieron el día de y comunal. La Iglesia él. Sí, nuestro trabajo santificación del día siete al inicio del reconoce que en la complejidad del y esfuerzos son importantes, pero en primer comienzo de la semana para mundo actual, la familia necesita las última instancia, tienen que encontrar su en honor el día de la Resurrección, demandas de determinados puestos propósito y significado en nuestra relación así como Pentecostés. A principios de trabajo y servicios sociales - que a con el Señor si han de ser realmente del cuarto siglo, la Iglesia ya había veces puede excusar a una persona de bueno y vivificante para nosotros mismos, establecido el domingo como un día de la expectativa de mantener el domingo nuestras familias y nuestro mundo. adoración y descanso. como día de descanso, pero estas Santificar el día de reposo ayuda a hacer El cumplimiento de santificar el día excepciones no nos debe conducir a eso posible. de reposo dominical es el centro de la un desconocimiento general de este celebración de la Santa Eucaristía. El precepto. Obispo Auxiliar Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica (CIC) Se necesita disciplina y la planificación Joseph Siegel es un recordatorio que "el domingo es para garantizar que el domingo Cristo es nuestra Esperanza I N I T V E D RA celebrado como el día del Señor y Su realmente sea un día diferente de agosto 2014 OMINE SPE

3 Montini math teacher, Andy Samide, is Teens Help Food Pantry with Local News congratulated by Food from Garden Principal Maryann STORY BY LINDA GONNELLA O’Neill for completing his 50th year in education. Teens from Notre Dame Parish in Clarendon Hills, along with Boy Scouts from Troop 14 of Visitation Parish in Elmhurst, joined forces in developing a community service project of creating their very own garden, maintaining and harvesting it for Notre Dame’s food pantry families this spring. The first Saturday in June they spent the day digging, planting and fencing all of the areas in a garden at the home of a Notre Dame parishioner, Linda Gonnella, whose garden was expanded to twice the size as last year so as to be able to serve more families a variety of vegetables. Six teens volunteered their time and talent for the remainder of the summer and fall to feed those in need at the food pantry. Those teens from Notre Dame include Jackson Dockery and Matt Price. Boy Scout Troop 14 members are Steven Chun, Joe Durkin, Dominick Moran and Alex Wang. The garden will be bountiful as these volunteers have agreed to water, weed and maintain the garden during the entire growing season during the summer. They will harvest their produce and deliver it Montini Catholic High School Montini Catholic High School. each month to our food pantry, helping Teacher Celebrates 50 Years Samide arrived at Montini in 2005 and many families in the area. in Education has been a tremendous mentor to students STORY BY ERIC BRECHTEL and staff since his first day. He has had Father Thomas White Dies numerous students published in math Longevity does not always equal journals and continues to foster a passion Father Thomas White died on July 5. He excellence. In the case of Andy Samide, for mathematics in his students.He was was 80. however, it truly does. He has been recently honored by Montini for completing Thomas White was born in Chicago on named Illinois Teacher of the year twice; 50 years in the educational field. Sept. 9, 1933, to Samuel Peter White earned a Certificate of Excellence in “Mr. Samide is that exceptional caliber and Anne Loretta Walsh White. He was teaching from the Presidential Scholars of teacher that inspires students to want baptized at St. Francis of Rome Church Program; received the T.E. Rine Award more,” said Montini’s principal, Maryann in Cicero and later attended the parish from the Illinois Council of Teachers O’Neill. “He encourages, guides and elementary school. Further studies were of Mathematics (ITCM); and has co- challenges his student to think critically, at Quigley Preparatory Seminary, St. authored three geometry textbooks for to analyze, and, most importantly, to Mary of the Lake Seminary in Mundelein Scott Foresman and Company. problem solve as both independent and and St. Procopius Seminary in Lisle. Times have certainly changed since collaborative learners. We are lucky to Following ordination to the priesthood he first started teaching. When he began have him at Montini Catholic.” at the Cathedral of St. Raymond in Joliet his career in education, the United States on May 30, 1959 by Bishop Martin D. was led by President Lyndon B. Johnson, McNamara, Father White was assigned gas was 30 cents and a new home could Deanery Appointment to Sacred Heart Parish in Lombard. be purchased for around $20,000. Subsequent assignments included: St. Times have changed a lot since then, but Bishop R. Daniel Conlon appointed Anne in Crest Hill (1964) and Visitation Samide’s passion for education has not. Father John Balluff, the pastor at Parish in Elmhurst (1965). Father White He began teaching at Wheaton North St. Mary’s Parish in West Chicago, was named pastor of St. Luke Parish in High School, has taught at North Central as dean for the West DuPage Carol Stream (1971); pastor of Holy College and now continues to teach Deanery, effective Aug. 1. Ghost Parish in Wood Dale (1980) and math classes at College of Dupage and founding pastor of St. Daniel the Prophet

4 Christ is our Hope / August 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org Local news continues on page 22 The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Joliet

Most Reverend R. Daniel Conlon PUBLISHER Edward P. Flavin DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF COMMUNICATIONS August 2014 Volume 7: Issue 8

Carlos Briceño 6 yourlife EDITOR Jorge Rivera SPANISH TRANSLATOR Jenny Bis 6 Catholic Charities GRAPHIC DESIGNER Focus, Hard Work, and an Open Mind 7 Catholic Life

Christ is our Hope (USPS 25288) is a membership Two Mysteries: God and Self. publication of the Catholic Diocese of Joliet, 16555 Weber Road, Crest Hill, IL 60403. Published monthly. Gift subscription rates are $15 per year. Individual issues are $2.50. Send all subscription information and address changes to: Christ is our Hope magazine, 16555 Weber Road, Crest Hill, IL 60403; 815.221.6112 or email 8 yourfaith [email protected]. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Christ is our Hope magazine, 16555 Weber Road, Crest Hill, IL 60403 ©Christ is our Hope magazine, Diocese of Joliet. ©FAITH Publishing Service. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Publishing Service. No portion of Christ is our Hope magazine may be 8 Feature Story published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise reproduced or distributed in whole or in part without prior written authority of the Diocese of Joliet and/or FAITH Publishing St. Dominic and the Order ServiceTM. For reprint information or other questions regarding use copyright material, contact the Christ is our Hope magazine editorial offices at the Diocese of Joliet. of Preachers. Periodicals postage paid at Romeoville, IL and at additional mailing offices. 10 Pastoral Plan To submit story ideas and news, send e-mails to A Snapshot of [email protected] American Catholics For subscription information, Please call 815.221.6112. 11  Ask the Priest The Assumption of Mary 12 yourstories

12 Cover Story The Despair of Infertility – and the Hope of Adoption. 14 Feature Story 14 The Countercultural Journey of a Doctor and His Wife. 16 Special Report Religious Freedom and the Hobby Lobby Supreme Court Decision. 18 Feature Story Spotlight on Boy Scouting. 18 19 Feature Story The Bishop in the Catholic Church. 21 Culture A Not-So-Ordinary Salad ... for a Not-So-Ordinary Time. 23 Last Word Q and A Regarding a Method 21 of Natural Family Planning

5 yourlife Catholic Charities

This courageous mother arrived at has grown so much in the past year and a domestic violence shelter with her a half. Today, Sanaiah is communicating daughter and one suitcase for each of more. She recently graduated from Early them. “That’s all we had,” Sable recalled. Head Start and now attends full day She quickly began working hard to Head Start at one of Catholic Charities' become self-sufficient. She found a job Head Start centers, where she is thriving. and began working. Then, she went Sable recently started her dream job online to research schools for her toddler. and is extremely excited for the future. “I wanted Sanaiah to be in school,” She plans to return to college and study she said. “Her social skills weren’t where business administration. She also hopes they needed to be.” Sable had noticed to move into a bigger apartment, where some changes in her daughter due to Sanaiah can have her own bedroom. “I’m the trauma that she had witnessed and making a path for her,” Sable said. “I endured and she wanted to ensure that want her to have a better life.” her little girl received as much help When Sable reflects on the challenges and support as possible. Sable found she has faced and how far she’s come, it’s Catholic Charities’ Head Start program hard for her not to become emotional. “I online and enrolled Sanaiah in Early had to focus, work hard, and be open to Head Start in the Home Based program. the resources that were offered,” she said. This program provides 90-minute With tears in her eyes she added, “I’m at a sessions from a home visitor with the loss for words when I try to describe how goal of parent education and helping the much Catholic Charities has helped us.” Focus, Hard Work, young student. Home visitors encourage Jennifer Nyder still keeps in touch and an Open Mind parents to become involved in their with Sable and Sanaiah and is very children’s education. Sable and Sanaiah’s pleased with their progress. She said, able is an home visitor was Jennifer Nyder, and “It’s a privilege to work with them and to Jennifer provided Sable with many see how far they’ve come.” S outstanding mother referrals to community resources. Catholic Charities’ Early Childhood and sometimes In addition to Head Start, Sable was Services Division includes include Head being an outstanding connected with other Catholic Charities’ Start, Early Head Start, home-based, mother means asking programs that helped her rebuild expectant mothers, and day care for help. When Sable’s her life during this difficult programs for children up to daughter Sanaiah was a time. She received rental five years old and their assistance once she moved The Catholic low-income families. baby, the family escaped into an apartment. Ministries Annual Children participate in a domestic violence Sanaiah began seeing a Appeal provides developmentally and situation that affected counselor from Catholic $1.2 million in funding educationally appropriate both mother and daughter Charities’ Hands of Hope every year for Catholic activities; receive medical Charities. in a very traumatic way. counseling services. When and dental care; have While Sable felt lucky to be the holidays rolled around, healthy meals and snacks; Sable received funds to buy a and enjoy playing indoors and alive, she was left without kitchen table and Christmas gifts outdoors in a safe setting. Parental any resources and felt for her daughter – neither of which would involvement is encouraged. Family Service very alone. She knew that have been possible otherwise. When the Workers are also available to provide she had to keep moving family needed clothes and personal care support services and assist in securing forward, no matter how items, they went to Catholic Charities’ needed community resources. difficult it was. “I needed to Giving Tree resource exchange. “Catholic Charities picked us up when To learn more about Catholic Charities be more positive and show we needed it,” said Sable. “After my Head Start Program, counseling, rental Sanaiah that it was going to family, the agency has been my second assistance, and more, please visit be okay,” she explained. support system.” And this small family catholiccharitiesjoliet.org.

6 Christ is our Hope / August 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org Story and photography by Maggie Snow YOUR LIFE Catholic Life

TWO MYSTERIES: GOD AND SELF

e live with two mysteries, God and ourselves. focus. “You are worth more We fully comprehend neither, and spend a than many sparrows.” (Mt lifetime learning about each. St. Teresa of Avila 10, 31) Instead of having to prove our worth, we find we said we cannot know God unless we know already have immense worth ourselves, but we cannot know ourselves unless and dignity. God has judged weW know God. We have to engage one mystery to know the other. us, along with all creation, as good. We need no other validation. Surprising things God is met in God’s world. we know what God says to Mystery at the core of our are learned. Instead of having Let creatures speak to you of us? His conclusion is that life, we give ourselves away to name ourselves, we find their maker, said Teresa. So, we ourselves are what God to outside gods and ask ourselves already named. we go to God through God’s says to us. God speaks to us them to give us our identity. With our brother Jesus, we creation. Since we are the and in coming to hear more We ask the world around are the Beloved of God. We are first part of God’s creation clearly the words that we are, us to validate us. We point born precious in God’s eyes. we encounter, in coming to we come to know more fully to what we have piled up in God delights in us. know ourselves we grow in the God who speaks us. our lifetime: possessions, Of course, we first know our understanding of God. But this world cannot tell trophies, bank accounts, of God’s love for us through One theologian observed us who we are. Rather than titles, achievements. All the love of others. As God’s that we know what we say coming to know ourselves good, but none of it God. messengers we have to tell to God in prayer, but do from within, from the Who we truly are is one another how good we are known only in God. Our and how much we are loved. identity requires a life-long We come to trust in ourselves exploration into that Holy when we experience the Mystery. Prayer is the context love of others for us. One for finding our identity and writer describes this process worth. We need to become of affirmation as “blessing” quiet and listen. At times, others. We bless others when only when our support we pay attention to them has been taken away are and, by word or deed, tell we available to God. When them of their goodness. external and internal voices Ultimately, a relationship go quiet, we may hear with God in prayer becomes the gentle whistle of the the source of our deepening Shepherd. identity. The more we can say “God” in our life, the God delights in us more we can say our own The saints testified to a name with confidence and great change in their lives trust. The challenge to our when they moved from faith is to accept that we are the small island of their unconditionally loved by obsessive control into God. Surrendering in faith the surrounding ocean surprisingly leads to greater of God’s mercies. When freedom and self-possession. a relationship with God We then bring that is nurtured in prayer, the conviction and confidence world is seen more clearly. to a world seeking its own And we ourselves come into identity and direction.

Gian Lorenzo Bernini, The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa, 1647-52. Santa Maria della Vittoria, Rome. Welleschik©Wikipedia.

Story by Father John Welch, O.Carm. 7 yourfaith

In the 5th century, a holy Teresa of Calcutta saw a man by the name of Benedict need to serve those most was called upon to reform neglected by society. Their a community of monks who legacy lives on in the charism asked for his guidance. In the of the religious orders they end, these men resisted his established, the Missionary efforts, and God intervened to Sisters of the Sacred Heart preserve Benedict from their of Jesus, the Sisters of the evil plots. He went on to write Blessed Sacrament, and a rule of life for religious men the Missionaries of Charity, and women that centuries respectively. Countless other later would rightfully earn him examples could be named. It the title of “Father of Western is clear that time and again, Monasticism.” St. Benedict was men and women, attentive to an innovator in his time, and the promptings of the Holy 15 centuries later, Benedictine Spirit, have extended the work religious communities still of Christ and will continue to follow his rule of life. do so in the future. The Church in the 16th On Aug. 8 the Church century was plagued from celebrates the feast of St. within and without by the laxity Dominic de Guzman, founder of many of its leaders and by of the Order of Preachers. the movement now termed Dominic’s own time was the Protestant Reformation. beleaguered by the scandal “Reformers” of the time shook of Church leaders whose the foundation of Christendom lives did not reflect Gospel with their vehement dissent values. In response, heretical from central teachings of the groups arose that challenged Church. Ignatius of Loyola the Church and led people and his band of followers, astray. St. Dominic, and his later known as the Society of contemporary St. Francis Jesus, were an answer to this of Assisi, were raised up by crisis, revitalizing Catholicism God to meet this challenge by through their spirited defense establishing religious orders of the faith. The purpose of the which would witness to Christ first members was to be at the and to the truth through disposal of the pope, going their radical living of the where they would be most evangelical counsels in the St. Dominic needed. As time progressed, world. While the two founders AND THE ORDER OF PREACHERS however, it became clear set about this task in different that their work in establishing ways, their goal was the schools was one of the most same: the salvation of souls. effective ways to correct error As the Dominican Order t decisive moments in and corruption of the time, and approaches its 8th centenary history God raises up to fulfill the motto of the Society, in 2016, many of its men and women to "Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam" – to members, friars and sisters the greater glory of God. alike, see this time in history meet the challenges of In more recent times, St. as a particularly “Dominican the time. Francis Xavier Cabrini, St. moment.” Perhaps the basis A Katherine Drexel, and Blessed for such a claim lies within 8 Christ is our Hope / August 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org Feature Story the spirit of the three mottos “Some today argue that has nothing to offer others. from prayer (both personal which have provided guiding respect for freedom of the The first goal of all who and liturgical, praising and principles for the order during individual makes it wrong are consecrated to God blessing God) to sharing its 800 years of existence. to seek truth, including in baptism is to seek the the fruits of that prayer The first mottoVeritas – the truth about what is perfection of charity (love for (preaching). Truth – locates the heart of good. In some circles to God and love for others in There is an urgency in this Dominican life in a quest speak of truth is seen as God). Those consecrated in motto and in the order’s official for that controversial or divisive, religious life are called to live name. Preaching is a necessity, which is in and consequently best kept their baptismal consecration as St. Paul explains in the Letter accord with in the private sphere… in an even more radical way, to the Romans: “For ‘everyone reality. This Dear friends, truth is not as the entire focus of their who calls on the name of the emphasis an imposition. Nor is it lives, for the good of the Lord will be saved.’ But how on “Truth” simply a set of rules. It is a entire Church. This desire to can they call on Him in whom takes the discovery of the One who be consumed with the fire of they have not believed? And Dominican never fails us; the One love and to inspire others with how can they believe in Him straight to whom we can always trust. this same love is the energy of whom they have not heard? the person of Jesus Christ In seeking truth we come which moves Dominicans in And how can they hear without who is Truth Himself (John to live by belief because all they undertake within the someone to preach? And how 14:6). To claim truth as a ultimately truth is a person: mission of the Church. Hence can people preach unless they goal immediately places the Jesus Christ.” the third motto of the order: are sent? As it is written, ‘How Dominican in dialogue with laudare, benedicere, praedicare beautiful are the feet of those skeptics and philosophers The liberating power of truth – “to praise, to bless, to who bring (the) good news!’ ” and those who, like Pilate, and the embodiment of truth preach.” Here we see once (10:13-15). are uncertain about their in the person of Jesus draw again that dynamic movement Like the Old Testament own place in the world. the Dominican to seek Him prophet Jeremiah, the The message of salvation, in contemplation. This leads Dominican cannot help of the incarnation and the naturally to the second motto: but proclaim the goodness redemption, answers these contemplare et contemplata of God and the need for deep questions and offers the aliis tradere – “to contemplate conversion. When St. truth that sets one free (cf. and to give to others the Dominic encountered the John 8:32). fruits of contemplation.” St. Albigensian heretics, he Today, as relativism infiltrates Thomas Aquinas is credited realized that the only thing even ordinary conversation, with coining this phrase, that could counteract their many question the existence and he certainly became heresy was a preaching of of a truth that is universal. the exemplar for living it out. the truth with integrity. Today, Some even consider truth Although the Dominican Order Dominicans seek to offer to be at odds with freedom. is officially named the Order the same response to the Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI of Preachers, from the earliest heresies and confusion in our addressed this very point days, St. Dominic made it world. The Dominican seeks during a meeting with young clear that without study, prayer, to introduce people of our people in New York: and meditation, the preacher time to the very Person of Truth; not simply to know truth intellectually but to develop a relationship of love with Christ The Dominican seeks to introduce people of our time to the Himself, in whom all truth very Person of Truth; not simply to know truth intellectually has its source. This is the but to develop a relationship of love with Christ Himself, in whom all Dominican’s perennial task. St. Dominic, Light of the truth has its source. This is the Dominican’s perennial task." Church and Preacher of Truth, pray for us.

Story by Sister Cecilia Joseph, the principal at St. Jude Catholic School in Joliet 9 YOUR STORY Pastoral Plan A Snapshot of American Catholics

he Diocesan communication efforts need to be participation have had no significant effect Pastoral Plan, accomplished within the diocese, but at on keeping young Catholics within the the same time, we need to undertake this Church. However, attending a Catholic high which will be while using decreased budgets. school has had a slight positive effect on released in keeping young Catholics within the Church. November, CONSTANT MOVEMENT Another unexpected finding from the centers on the pastoral and All the recent surveys show that there surveys is the fact that religious illiteracy T is constant movement in the American (or ignorance) is highest among pre- ministerial needs of Catholics within the Diocese religious “marketplace.” Every major Vatican II Catholics and not among young religious group is simultaneously gaining adults. It seems that older Catholics have of Joliet at all levels of faith new members and losing its longtime a harder time explaining their faith than and participation. It aims to faithful. In fact, roughly half of the U.S. younger Catholics. build community and to population has changed their religion at strengthen faith. some point in their lives. LATINO FAITH, GROWTH Catholicism has experienced the AND SPIRIT greatest net loss of members as a result Currently, Latinos account for 45 One of the first actions of the Pastoral of affiliation changes. But the impact of percent of all Catholics nationwide ages Plan Committee was to jump headfirst immigration from Latin America to the 18 to 29, and the Latino share within the into current research about U.S. Catholics, U.S. has offset these losses for now. Catholic Church will continue to increase our faith, our commitment, and the key As a detriment to the situation, in the coming decade. sub-groups within our churches. The Catholics “recruit” fewer new members According to some research, Latino- Diocese of Joliet and the Catholic Church compared to other Christian religions. oriented worship is not simply a product in the United States are facing significant of immigration or language; it involves a issues that are impacting our ability to FAITH AND RELATIONSHIPS broader and more lasting form of ethnic live our faith, share the Word, and build Approximately 60 percent of Catholics identification. More than half of all Latino a Christian community. According to attend weekend Mass at least once a month. Catholics (54 percent) identify themselves research conducted by the Pew Research This is a lower rate than Mormons and as “charismatics,” compared to about 13 Center and cited below, our diocese is Evangelicals, but a higher rate than Orthodox percent of non-Latino Catholics who typical of national religious trends. and mainline Protestant churches. identify themselves as “charismatic.” Following here are highlights from the Of people who consider themselves Research also shows that many Latino information uncovered by the Pastoral Plan to be Catholic, 20 percent are highly- Catholics have witnessed or experienced Committee. They shed light on topics such committed Catholics, 65 percent have a spirit-filled or renewalist movements, such as participation, membership, young adult medium commitment, and 15 percent as divine healing and direct revelations commitment, and American Latinos. have a low commitment. Among the from God (Gifts of the Spirit), and that highly committed laity, they expect to be one in three Latino Catholics participate in FAITH, COMMITMENT AND leaders and peers within their parish, not Spirit-centered prayer groups. PARTICIPATION followers of the parish staff. Mass attendance is declining in most CONCLUSIONS parishes within the diocese and as a YOUNG ADULTS, TEENS AND Some of these findings were expected, result financial support of many parishes COMMITMENT but a few were eye-openers for members within the diocese is also decreasing. The Changes in religious identity begin of our planning committee. We used this statistics are not encouraging: In one out early in life. Most people who leave information for guidance as we developed of four churches in our diocese, weekend Catholicism do so by age 23. Many fallen- the pastoral plan, and it helped us as we Mass is attended by less than 20 percent away Catholics say they left because they prioritized the many pastoral issues in our of all registered parishioners. Also, in lost their belief in God and in Catholic Church. The anticipated and the surprising two out of three churches in our diocese, and general religious teachings. research facts we discovered will be reflected weekend Mass is attended by less than 33 Surprisingly from the surveys, religious in the final plan, and it, along with the Holy percent of all registered parishioners. On education classes and youth group Spirit, has been guiding us along the way. top of these trends is the fact that fewer Catholics are participating in sacraments and many view the sacraments as a î To find out more on the plan, go to www.dioceseofjoliet.org/ “service,” rather than a rite. pastoralplan/. Email [email protected] if you want To reverse this, our parishioners any questions answered. are telling us that more pastoral and

10 Christ is our Hope / August 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org Story by Tony Molinaro, the team leader of the Pastoral Planning Committee YOUR FAITH The Assumption of Mary Ask the Priest

hen I lived in Italy, I quickly learned her earthly life"... The Church uses that there were three days of great intentionally vague language here. In the eastern Churches, the Assumption is importance, of great devotion and of called the Dormition of Mary, that is, the great vacations: “Natale con i tuoi,” “la "falling asleep" of Mary. Eastern Catholics Pasqua con chi vuoi”/ “Christmas is typically argue that Mary never died. withW family, Easter with whomever you wish.” Easter Rather, at the end of her time on earth, and Christmas seemed obvious to me, but I could not she fell asleep and was raised up into have anticipated the importance of the famed heaven. In the west, there are competing traditions about this. Reputable and Ferragosto. The month of August vacations centers saintly teachers have fallen on both around the great solemnity of the Assumption of the sides, some saying she died but never Blessed Virgin Mary on Aug. 15. experienced bodily corruption (as with Christ, her son), while others hold the eastern line that Mary was spared of the As in Italy, the Assumption is a very practical terms, this means that if effect of original sin – that is death – holy day of obligation in the United anyone tries to tell you that they have a because she was conceived without it. States, where the entire Church fills relic of Our Lady's body, they are a liar. Because Pope Pius XII was proposing a her churches to adore God and marvel More importantly, Mary's Assumption dogma that is binding upon the intellect at the wonder He has worked in His is a continuation of the prophesy, "For and consciences of all of Christ's faithful, Mother. On Nov. 1, 1950, Pope Pius thou dost not give me up to Sheol, or he was intentionally conservative in his XII promulgated (that is, "formally let thy godly one see the Pit" (Ps 16:10). definition. Christians of good will can proclaimed") Munificentissimus Deus, While the Psalm speaks immediately of argue about whether or not the Blessed a papal teaching document called an Christ Jesus, Mary's Assumption shows Virgin experienced death, but this is Apostolic Constitution. Munificentissimus that as His disciples and members of His certain: she was certainly, immediately Deus, Latin for "the most bountiful God,” body, the power of Jesus' Resurrection and integrally raised to heaven when her defined the centuries-old Christian belief reaches beyond Himself to us as well. time here on earth was over. The Church that "the Immaculate Mother of God, the The Blessed Virgin Mary, immaculately may or may not choose to define the ever Virgin Mary, having completed the conceived and sinless throughout life, point of Mary's death in the future. course of her earthly life, was assumed body received immediately Mary is the and soul into heavenly glory" (MD #44). and fully the fruit of exemplar of the The Assumption of Mary has a long Christ's resurrection. human race. The history in Christian thought. St. John We, however, have to graces that she Damascene wrote in the 8th century that await the replaying experienced in "it was fitting that she, who had kept her of Ezechiel's vision of and after her life virginity intact in childbirth, should keep the desert bones: "So are the realization her own body free from all corruption I prophesied as I was and anticipation of even after death. It was fitting that she, commanded; and as I the promises made who had carried the Creator as a child prophesied, there was to all believers. at her breast, should dwell in the divine a noise, and behold, God granted her tabernacles" (Encom. in Dorm., Hom. 2). a rattling; and the particular graces so Likewise, a century before, Pope Adrian bones came together, that she could both I makes reference to the tradition of bone to its bone. And complete her mission observing Our Lady's Assumption. as I looked, there as the Mother of So what exactly does the Assumption of were sinews on them, God and provide Mary mean? And why is it important to us? and flesh had come God's children yet "Was assumed body and soul" ... upon them, and skin another assurance of The word "assumption" is used exactly had covered them" Bartolome Esteban Murillo©Wikipedia, His faithfulness. If as it would seem – Mary's body and (Ez 37:7-8). Mary The Assumption of Mary, mid-1600s. Christ's Resurrection soul were assumed, or taken up, by God is physically in heaven with her body, were not enough for you, He has given into heaven. Whereas our bodies remain as Christ is physically present in heaven you yet another reason to hope. This here on earth to rot while our souls upon His throne of glory. This is the state Ferragosto, this Aug. 15, celebrate with return to their Creator for judgment, that the rest of the saints only await at the the whole Church, not only Mary's Mary's soul was accompanied by her final resurrection of the dead. Assumption into heaven, but also your body in returning to the Almighty. In "Having completed the course of resurrection on the Last Day.

Story by Father Michael Pawlowicz, a parochial vicar at St. Mary's Parish, West Chicago 11 YOUR STORY directly referenced and translated responsibility. Cover Story for the Chinese government. In addition to prayer, we Our shared desire to raise found that seeking the counsel children in the Catholic faith of a Catholic physician made stems from our own childhoods. a significant difference in We are both cradle-Catholics, how we view our infertility. though Brian is the product of With previous physicians, I 17 years of Catholic education, was usually uncomfortable while I was one of those “public explaining that we use Natural school kids.” Brian and I enjoy Family Planning (NFP). relating our respective Catholic [According to the United States kid experiences and often Conference of Catholic Bishops, discuss how we'll weave our “NFP is the general title for the separate traditions into new scientific, natural and moral ones with Alexander. We each methods of family planning experienced daily family prayer, that can help married couples grace before meals, and Sunday either achieve or postpone liturgy during childhood, and pregnancies.”] I reached my we both grew up in households breaking point when one that discussed the Church's doctor told me the only way teachings. Rather than think we could have a family was of our beliefs as restrictive, through in vitro fertilization outdated rules set by old men, (IVF). The same day, after my we learned about the simplicity appointment, I called Dr. Robert of natural law and how God's Lawler's office, from Downers gift of free will both empowers Grove OB/GYN, in tears, and and challenges us to be our registered as a new patient. (See THE DESPAIR OF best selves. We both brought a page 14 for related article.) INFERTILITY – AND THE copy of the Catechism into our Dr. Lawler provided Brian marriage, and we've turned to it and me with the support we on a number of occasions during needed, which also included Hope of Adoption our dealings with infertility to his prayers. I went through better understand not only the several months of diagnostic hen my husband Brian and “what” but the “why” of the tests, which eased our minds I vowed to accept children Church's viewpoint. that our infertility wasn't an lovingly from God on our While our Catholic easily correctable problem, but wedding day, we never upbringing has provided us it left me wondering how many imagined that would take with great resources and a good other Catholic couples had model to follow, we've both similar experiences and felt that us thousands of miles commented that our faith has they had no alternative to IVF. across the Pacific Ocean. given us the greatest strength As difficult as our struggle has Although we hoped to experience the joy during times of crisis. Brian been, Brian and I have always of pregnancy, our struggle with infertility lost his mother to cancer when treated infertility as a shared allowed us to surrender to the incredible he was a senior in high school, cross that we bear together. peace in accepting God's will. Our experience and my mother passed away Rather than looking at it as from cancer just a few years something wrong with me or of adopting our son, Alexander Thomas, after Brian and I married. The with Brian, we try to see it as a through China's Waiting Child Program came sorrow of losing a parent in the way to bring ourselves closer at the end of a long journey of hospitals, midst of our infertility issues felt to God by accepting His way consultations, and discernment. overwhelming; it was only by over our own desires. It has turning to God in the Eucharist never been an easy cross, but by Our journey dealing with him about his views on adoption and daily prayer that helped me carrying it together, our marriage infertility started early in our and how he'd feel about having realize that we are not alone in has become stronger. During courtship. After a significant non-biological children. Our carrying our cross of infertility. the months of testing, Brian illness of mine during college, discussion resulted in the God is present through the grace drove me to every appointment Brian and I discussed what we realization that we both felt a of our marriage, and our choice and sat in the waiting room. would do if we were unable to calling to be parents in whatever to make life-affirming and moral He was unreasonably patient have children. I still remember form that might take. Ten years decisions with God's gift of free with me and never hushed me our conversation vividly; I asked later, that conversation was will is both a blessing and a when I complained about how

12 Christ is our Hope / August 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org The Following Hannah yourstory support group is for sore I was from the daily blood women experiencing infertility would give us a leg up family was incredibly supportive draws. He would listen when difficulty beginning their on dealing with health care for as we counted down the days I would break down into tears families due to primary our child, and my desire to be by offering prayers, donating after receiving an invitation infertility. It offers a an at-home mom would greatly furniture, and even by throwing loving, safe place to share to a friend's baby shower; at and pray together with benefit our child's development. us a surprise baby shower. the same time, though, Brian other Catholic women We felt that God's quiet call to Finally, after triple-checking our would remind me that children who are committed to adoption for our family was packets of paperwork and visas, are a gift and not a right for all following the Catholic getting louder each day. We felt we were on our way to China. Church’s teachings on married couples. reproductive technology. drawn to international adoption, Words cannot express our As difficult as our struggle has Discussion topics include: so we researched various experience in China. We were been, Brian and I have always Experiencing denial; agencies and settled on one ecstatic and terrified. Our new treated infertility as a shared coping with sadness; that focused on special needs’ son was, as expected, incredibly cross that we bear together. accepting the cross; adoptions from China. malnourished and was too weak seeking joy; finding Rather than looking at it as meaning in suffering; Throughout the next year, to sit up or even hold a rattle. something wrong with me or discerning treatment; we completed our home-study He was also the most handsome, with Brian, we try to see it as a considering adoption. and dossier for the Chinese smart, and even-tempered little way to bring ourselves closer The group meets monthly government, consisting of a boy we had ever met. We got on the first Saturday of to God by accepting His way the month from 9-10:30 ton of paperwork and a series into the routine of being a family over our own desires. It has a.m. in the St. Paul Center of interviews and training of three quickly, and we rejoiced never been an easy cross, but by at Ss. Peter and Paul sessions to better educate us as our son gained strength carrying it together, our marriage in Naperville (corner on adoptive parenting issues daily. After we survived the of Benton & Brainard has become stronger. During Streets). For more info or and developmental challenges 15- hour flight back to Chicago, the months of testing, Brian to RSVP, contact Mary specific to internationally Alexander passed through U.S. drove me to every appointment Beth at graceofadoption@ adopted children. Though the Customs and became a citizen and sat in the waiting room. gmail.com. paperwork was tedious, I felt on July 4. None of us stayed He was unreasonably patient God leading us through the awake to witness the fireworks. with me and never hushed me friends also struggling with bureaucracy of both the U.S. and Since we returned home from when I complained about how infertility, and we found strength Chinese governments. China, our son has undergone sore I was from the daily blood in knowing that our decision to We were anxious to be new three surgeries and continues to draws. He would listen when uphold our beliefs wasn't just parents and more than a little receive therapy for speech. Our I would break down into tears about following blindly what scared to travel halfway around church welcomed Alexander after receiving an invitation the Church says, but better the world to bring our child Thomas through the sacrament to a friend's baby shower; at understanding the logic and home, but we found strength of baptism in October, and he's the same time, though, Brian natural law of the Catechism. and peace in knowing we were now joined the ranks of fidgety would remind me that children Brian and I prayed a lot giving ourselves wholly to toddlers at Mass. Now that are a gift and not a right for all about our call to family life. God in the service of what He we have begun to create some married couples. We rephrased our prayer for wanted. Our families and friends form of normal life in between I think that accepting children children as an offering of our were very Alexander's as a gift from God, as opposed lives in service to God, in supportive, surgeries, to a reward for trying to lead whatever capacity that might though therapy, a good life, was the hardest be. I remember looking at the I know and doctor's part for me. There were times crucified Jesus in the beautiful they were appointments, when I was angry with God. I stained glass window at our concerned our days of couldn't understand why we parish and asking God “What about the infertility had to go through the anguish next?” His answer, after a period very real treatments of infertility when all we wanted of discernment, was incredibly challenges of adopting a child and blood tests seem long in the was to be parents. It was also clear. After reading several with significant medical needs. past. Brian and I look forward difficult to witness those who articles about families who After several months of not-so- to sharing with Alexander the chose to use IVF experience adopted children with medical patient waiting for a referral, our long and winding story of how the joy of pregnancy while we needs, I often wondered what social worker called us in late we became a family, and of how fielded comments about why would inspire a family to make January 2013 with good news. our shared faith and trust in God we didn't have kids yet. It was such a decision. Then it hit She had received a referral for continues to be its foundation. those times when Brian and I us: we had the physical and a 10-month-old boy with an Though infertility will most turned to our faith to reaffirm emotional support required for unrepaired cleft lip and palate. likely remain a cross we bear, our own decisions. We'd re-read adopting a child with special The next five months were a Brian and I agree that we could and discuss Catholic doctrine needs in addition to the stability blur of more paperwork, medical never have imagined what an regarding infertility, which often needed for such an adoption. evaluations, preparing our extraordinary path awaited our led to lively dinner discussions. The years of dealing with son's room, and arranging for family when we said “Yes” to We sought solace with a few medical insurance issues during our travel to China. Our parish God's call.

Story by Kathleen Kelly, a parishioner at St. Joan of Arc Parish in Lisle 13 YOUR STORY

Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Siegel Feature Story stands between Dr. Robert Lawler, left, and Dr. Anthony Caruso from the Downers Grove OB/GYN Office. Bishop Siegel recently visited the office to bless it.

The Countercultural Journey of a Doctor and His Wife

ooking back, I’m pretty sure it was the Feast of the Body and Blood of Jesus in June of 2007 when I found myself sitting in the Papal Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. I was a chaperone on a trip of some students from Montini Catholic High School in Lombard, where I teach theology. Mass was being offered in Latin, with the readings and homily in Italian. I understoodL neither. Because I could really only follow along visually, I found myself looking around quite a bit. The basilica was absolutely beautiful. One thing was more breathtaking than the last. The wood, the marble, the gold, the artwork, the music, the incense – all of it was captivating. But what I found most intriguing was the number of confessionals that lined the inside perimeter and the lines of people waiting to receive the sacrament. It struck me that in my own life it had been more than 20 years since I had been truly in God’s friendship. Being in the “God business” (teaching theology) and being at “headquarters” (Rome), the Spirit moved me to get in line. I left the basilica feeling different and knowing that some changes had to take place in my life and the life of my family.

14 14 Christ is our Hope / August 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org For a number of years my husband, Anthony, and I had not At the time, he was working at the University of Chicago’s Center been practicing our faith. Disordered priorities. We were “busy for Reproductive Medicine. It was a prestigious position that had raising our family” of six children and never realized that we were a number of benefits. He was on the faculty of the medical school, neglecting the most important part of their formation. When I got served on the medical school’s admissions board, was involved in home from Rome, I told my husband that I thought we should be research – professionally, it was a very rewarding place to be. In going to Mass regularly. He was right on board. At the same time, addition, there was the benefit afforded to our children – college I had a friend who was encouraging me to get more authentic in tuition remission anywhere they wanted to go up to the equivalence my Catholicism. I generally dismissed him of tuition at the U of C. Six kids made that a and his ideas and thought that I was just fine; very attractive perk. It seemed, though, the I had made great progress by going to Mass price of the perk was going to be his soul. Not most Sundays, hadn’t I? a very good investment. He had to walk away. In October of that year my mother suddenly None of his colleagues understood his moral passed away and the following May I lost my dilemma. In fact, most thought he was crazy dad. Those events caused my heart to be the to leave the field. I would say that, even now, softest and most open it had been in years, most don’t understand. and God took advantage of the opportunity He did a good deal of praying and soul to move me to where I belonged. That friend searching and began to dream of a time he who had encouraged me earlier was still would be able to practice his profession, around, and as I asked more questions about using the gifts and knowledge God had given the faith he answered them. Eventually, we him, but all in line with Church teaching. It took him up on his invitation to go to Mass seemed impossible. Definitely counter cultural. at his parish. When I went, it was a similar After more prayer and spiritual direction, my experience to the one I had at the basilica in husband and his current medical practice Rome – the wood, the marble, the gold, the Barbara Caruso, wife of Dr. Anthony partner, Dr. Robert Lawler, came together. Now marble, the music, the incense. Once again Caruso and the author of this article. there was someone else looking to do the same I was captivated. Almost immediately, my thing as Tony – strength in numbers. At first it husband and I started bringing our family there every week. We seemed like it wasn’t going to happen – obstacle after obstacle – but met wonderful priests and brothers, other families – it was great. finally, a year ago, Downers Grove OB/GYN was born, and Doctors We felt very much like we had found a home. There was just one Caruso and Lawler were pioneers. They care for women in all element of discomfort, but it was a rather large one. stages of life completely in line with the Church. No abortions, no My husband is a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist. sterilization, no contraception, no IVF or artificial insemination. It That means he is an obstetrician/gynecologist who did an additional really is hard to believe that the dream became a reality. two years’ fellowship in reproductive medicine, which deals with I remember the day he came home from the University of in vitro fertilization (IVF), artificial insemination, frozen embryos, Chicago for the last time. He had stopped to go to the sacrament etc. – all against Church teachings. At the time, my husband could of reconciliation on his way home. He told me that he felt like (and would) argue vehemently that the Church was wrong in her a huge weight had been lifted from his shoulders because he teachings about what he did. That she was backward or behind the would never have to knowingly go against God’s law in his job times. He believed that, in helping people create the family they again. What a burden that must have been for him. wanted, he was doing good. After all, weren’t we told to be fruitful I have watched him work harder over the last year than he has in and multiply? Some people just needed science to do that. As we met the 23 years since he graduated from medical school. I have seen more people and became more involved in our new parish, it became him more “occupationally satisfied” than ever before. I have also seen more uncomfortable for us to talk about what he a physician being born that is pleasing to God. I did for a living. That discomfort was all on us. No think Tony would tell anyone who asked that the one was ever unkind to us or judgmental toward last year has been one of the best in his life. He us. They were, however, truthful with us. They To find out more about has the knowledge that he is practicing medicine told us that he needed to get out of the field for Dr. Anthony Caruso as the Church teaches and as a result is helping the sake of his soul. Much easier said than done. and Dr. Robert Lawler’s women to also stay faithful to the Church. Having been a life-long student, my husband practice, go to: I remember him coming home one day began to do some “light” reading. He started recently and telling of a couple who had with Humane Vitae (Pope Paul VI’s 1968 www.downersgroveob.com/ just had a baby. Not a big newsflash in the encyclical, known in English as “Of Human life of an OB/GYN, right? The difference is Life,” which prohibited artificial contraception) that this couple had been told by another and followed that up with Dignitas Personae (the Congregation physician to terminate the pregnancy because there was some for the Doctrine of the Faith’s 2008 document, known in English sort of “problem” with the baby that was thought to be too as “The Dignity of a Person,” which dealt with certain bioethical grave to overcome. When the couple came to my husband, he questions). After reading those two documents he came to a encouraged them to carry the pregnancy to term and let God greater understanding of the Church’s position with regard to his take care of the rest. They did, and now are very proud parents profession. The way he supported his family. The way he identified of a perfectly healthy baby. That’s a good day at the office, by himself. He knew he had to make a change. But how? any one’s definition.

Story by Barbara Caruso, a theology teacher at Montini Catholic High School 15 YOUR FAITH

Special Report

Religious Freedom and the HOBBY LOBBY SUPREME COURT DECISION

n June 30, 2014, the Supreme Court of the United States issued its decision in the case of Hobby Lobby Stores (together with Conestoga Wood Specialties Corp. et al.) versus the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS). In a 5-4 decision, the court decided in favor of O Hobby Lobby and Conestoga Wood.

The Issue tag for non-compliance would have been religion even if the burden results from Both privately-held, family-owned about $33 million per year. Alternatively, a rule of general applicability,” unless businesses had filed suit against the should the companies drop employee the government “demonstrates that HHS over its Aug. 1, 2011, mandate health insurance plans altogether to avoid application of the burden to the person that required most private health plans violating the consciences of the owners, – (1) is in furtherance of a compelling to include coverage for all Food and Hobby Lobby would face roughly $26 governmental interest; and (2) is the Drug Administration (FDA)-approved million in penalties while Conestoga least restrictive means of furthering that prescription contraceptive drugs Wood would incur around $1.8 million compelling interest.” and devices (including controversial in penalties. abortifacients), as well as surgical The Decision sterilization. In particular, the companies, The Law After its deliberation, the Supreme Court whose owners are not Catholic, objected The Supreme Court grounded its decision held the HHS mandate imposing the to complying with the mandate because in the Religious Freedom Restoration coverage of FDA-approved contraceptive four of the 20 contraceptive methods Act of 1993 (RFRA) rather than in the drugs and devices violates the Religious approved by the FDA (Plan B, Ella, and First Amendment to the Constitution, Freedom Restoration Act of 1993 as it two types of intrauterine devices) have the which guarantees freedom of religion. applies to closely held corporations, effect of preventing an already fertilized According to the decision, RFRA prohibits such as Hobby Lobby and Conestoga egg from developing any further by the “government [from] substantially Wood. In doing so, the court recognized inhibiting its attachment to the uterus. burden[ing] a person’s exercise of that RFRA applies to such for-profit In other words, each is corporations, which are abortion-inducing. The capable of exercising companies argued that religion. Having established covering these methods this fact, the court then would violate the owners’ decided the HHS mandate religious belief that life both substantially burdens begins at conception. the exercise of religion The Green family (Hobby in this case and that the Lobby) and the Hahn government had failed family (Conestoga Wood) to satisfy RFRA’s least- faced government fines of restrictive-means standard $100 per day per employee in terms of the exercise of if they failed to provide the religion (the court cited the objectionable drugs and “accommodation” made devices. For Hobby Lobby, for religious non-profit this meant approximately organization as an example $475 million per year. For of how there are less Conestoga Wood, the price restrictive means available.)

16 Christ is our Hope / JulyAugust 2014 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org / Dioceseofjoliet.org THE REACTION OF THE U.S. BISHOPS THE “ACCOMODATION”

Archbishop Joseph Kurtz, president, and Archbishop William Lori, chairman of In the majority opinion, the court the Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty, issued the following statement in found that there were other ways in reaction to the Supreme Court decision on June 30, 2014, on behalf of the which Congress or the HHS could United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB): insure that every woman has cost- “We welcome the Supreme Court’s decision to recognize that Americans can continue free access to all FDA-approved to follow their faith when they run a family business. In this case, justice has prevailed, contraceptives. In particular, the with the Court respecting the rights of the Green and Hahn families to continue to abide “accommodation” for religious non- by their faith in how they seek their livelihood, without facing devastating fines. Now is profit organizations was highlighted. the time to redouble our efforts to build a culture that fully respects religious freedom. This “accommodation” seeks to The Court clearly did not decide whether the so-called ‘accommodation’ violates RFRA respect religious liberty of such when applied to our charities, hospitals and schools, so many of which have challenged organizations by not requiring them it as a burden on their religious exercise One major case has been filed by the Little to provide such coverage. Instead, Sisters of the Poor and so many others, will prevail in their cases as well.” the burden is placed on the issuing insurance company.

WHY IT MATTERS

The HHS mandate diverges from this country’s long-standing respect for conscience THE REACTION OF THE protection as it would force Catholics and others to choose between participating in CATHOLIC CONFERENCE health benefit plans that violate basic moral principles by forcing cooperation with OF ILLINOIS: intrinsically evil practices and not having health benefits. It is, in reality, an attack on liberty in the name of ever-greater liberty for the erosion of conscience protection in Robert Gilligan, executive director the name of freedom to choose means an end to freedom itself. of the Catholic Conference of The freedom to choose the good, the only true freedom, does not exist without Illinois, issued the following the right to exercise a well-formed conscience. Conversely, the exercise of statement on the ruling: a well-formed conscience is fruitless without the freedom to follow what that “We are elated the U.S. Supreme conscience identifies as good. One simply cannot exist without the other. The Court recognizes and affirms the notion of a free nation without a moral compass, without a place for God in importance of religious freedom public discourse, without room for faith-informed decisions is an oxymoron. Such in the practice of business. Hobby a nation is not free but confused and living in a contradiction. It is not living in Lobby and Conestoga Wood freedom, but in an untruth that can never deliver what it promises. Specialties have scored an important victory regarding religious conscience that we hope portends a triumph for religious-based and nonprofit employers pursuing similar lawsuits. CONSCIENCE AND ITS FORMATION All of these cases challenge the federal mandate requiring insurance In our increasingly secularized culture, conscience is sometimes – and erroneously coverage of such objectionable – reduced to a collection of life experiences which guide decision-making, a services as abortion-inducing drugs, catalogue of personal preferences that are therefore ultimately relative and contraceptives and sterilizations. But subjective. In contrast, the U.S. Bishops in their “Forming Consciences for Faithful the issue at hand goes far beyond Citizenship” state, “Conscience is not something that allows us to justify doing birth control, which today’s ruling whatever we want, nor is it a mere ‘feeling’ about what we should or should not do. addresses. The issue strikes at the Rather, conscience is the voice of God resounding in the human heart, revealing heart of the first 16 words of the First the truth to us and calling us to do what is good while shunning what is evil.” Amendment: ‘Congress shall make The great challenge, of course, is that the world is inherently disordered due to no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free sin. This means that our consciences can make erroneous judgments and we can exercise thereof. …’ As we approach mistake, for example, freedom for “doing whatever we want.” For this reason, our the Fourth of July and the celebration consciences must be formed and informed. Unless our conscience is truthful, of our country’s independence, we then our judging right from wrong will be distorted and marred by error. in the Catholic Church observe our This formation must take place in relation to the Word of God, who is Truth, third annual ‘Fortnight for Freedom’ as expressed by Sacred Scripture and sacred tradition through the assistance from June 21-July 4, in recognition of the Holy Spirit and guided by the authoritative teaching of the Church. Only of America’s first freedom – religious such an “educated” conscience can guarantee freedom because only such an freedom. We breathe a sigh of relief “educated” conscience can confidently discern the good. that it has been affirmed.”

17 YOUR STORY

Feature Story SPOTLIGHT ON BOY SCOUTING

ill Doody has been involved with the scouting since he was eight years old. Since then he has received numerous awards, including the distinguished commissioner service award, district award of merit, bronze pelican, and the St. George medal. He has served as a den leader, cubmaster, assistant scoutmaster, trainer, crew adviser, district commissioner, and merit badge counselor. He is Bthe Catholic religious emblems counselor and helps run workshops for the Ad Altare Dei and Pope Pius XII Catholic Religious Award Emblems. These emblems, awarded by the National Catholic Committee on Scouting, recognizes study in Catholic faith, the sacraments, and vocations. It is open to all Catholic Boy Scout and Venture youth, boys and girls who are in 7th grade through age 20. In the last of a two-part series on scouting in the diocese, he is interviewed by Carlos Briceño about his thoughts on the Boy Scouts.

When did you first join the Boy Scouts? individual to be faithful and to be aware I was 8 years old. I joined as a Wolf of their faith. My sons are blessed to Cub; that was the youngest designation have a great scoutmaster in our troop, back then. I remember it being fun, and he says all the time, “We only get hanging with my friends, going to an Indian these boys for 90 minutes once a week. Pow Wow and wearing a cool uniform. The rest of the time they’re influenced by their parents and their peers.” In How did being part of the scouts that time, I try to do the best I can in impact your life back then? preparing them for adulthood through the I learned a lot of life lessons, especially Bill Doody, Bishop R. Daniel Conlon, regular scouting program, but I also do about helping others. and Bill’s wife, Donna. faith-based formation, as well.

You don’t think you would have learned remembered scouting. And it didn’t seem to What do you hope kids learn? that if you weren’t part of the scouts? be as organized as I remembered it.” Statistically, we tend to lose youth in I don’t think I wouldn’t have, but it the Catholic Church somewhere during At the encouragement of his wife, wasn’t drilled in daily. I know these days their late teens and early 20’s: work, Donna, he decided to sign up as an they have these pillar programs at the college, starting a family. I’m hoping the assistant cubmaster, and then the cub schools. We didn’t have those or the anti- more they are exposed to their faith and master left several months later due bullying programs when I was growing understand it, the more they will want to a work transfer. up. It was more or less fend for yourself, to stay faithful. By helping them grow Everyone wanted me to take his place, and I don’t mean that in a negative way. in their faith and understand it more, I and I really did not want to. After I did though, It’s just the way it was. believe that it will help them stay faithful, boy, everything snowballed after that. It was as opposed to dropping out. with Cub Scout Pack 327 at Our Lady When did you re-join the scouts as an of Mercy Parish, which is in the Rockford adult leader? How do you see scouting as an Diocese. We were in that pack because my It was around 2002. I found out about important way to learn about the faith? sons were going to school there. scouting being offered at my son’s school There are so many different religious through an open house. I remembered how What do you see now differently as an emblems and programs available to much fun I had in scouting, and I couldn’t adult, in terms of issues of faith, that you them. I’m fond of the two Cub Scout wait to get my son involved. weren’t aware of when you were a kid? programs, where it’s faith-based and I was not really looking to join as an adult When I was a kid, my troop was learning with your family and parents. leader. I wanted him to join. At the very actually chartered to a Presbyterian Far too often, parents are too busy first meeting that we attended, I remember church. Although we did have some and don’t get time to spend with their it being very disjointed. It wasn’t anyone’s faith-based programs, it wasn’t pushed. children to talk about their faith. Sunday fault, really; there just weren’t enough We were reverent, and we prayed before mornings seem to be the only time leaders. There was an appeal going around meals and before meetings. But it wasn’t that anyone ever talks about faith and for asking for leaders, but I felt I was busy discussed a lot. by having those emblem programs for enough with coaching sports and work. parents to work on with their children, I remember driving home with my wife Why is that important for you now? it really jump starts the faith-based and saying to her, “Gosh, that wasn’t like I It’s important for a well-rounded discussion in the home.

18 Christ is our Hope / August 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org YOUR STORY Feature Story The Bishop in the Catholic Church The following is the third in a series of articles relating to the Deacon Affirmation Project, which is a diocesan effort to inform people on the formation and education of deacons. Every bishop is a priest, and usually a year before he is ordained a priest, a seminarian is ordained as a transitional deacon.

or many people, the only direct experience they have of a bishop was when they were confirmed or perhaps when the bishop came to theirF parish for some special celebration. Other than knowing that the bishop leads a diocese and outside of these limited contacts with a bishop, many aren’t really sure what a bishop is or what role bishops play in the life of the Church. As in the last two issues of Christ is our Hope magazine, which had articles explaining the identity and role of the deacons and priests, this article will study the ministry of the bishop in the Catholic Church, looking at the Scriptures, the Church’s documents and the Rite of Ordination of Bishops. Andreas F. Borchert© Wikipedia Borchert© Andreas F. St. Patrick, Bishop of Ireland. Bishops are the successors to the Apostles. Just before his in his Letter to the Corinthians, “In order that the mission ascension into heaven, Christ commissioned the Apostles entrusted to them might be continued after their death…they to make disciples of all the nations and assured them that (the Apostles) consigned by will and testament, as it were, He would be with them until the end of the world (Mt. to their immediate collaborators the duty of completing and 28:19-20). As the Church began to grow and as the Apostles consolidating the work they had begun…They accordingly faced martyrdom, they realized that they must provide for designated such men and then made the ruling that likewise successors who would continue the mission Jesus had given on their death other proven men should take over their them. Bishops (from the Greek work episkopos meaning ministry.” The Second Vatican Council affirms this when “overseer”) are mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles (20:28) it states, “The bishops have by divine institution taken the and in the letters of St. Paul to the Philippians (1:1), to place of the apostles as pastors for the Church, in such wise Titus (1:7), and more extensively in in the First Letter to that whoever listens to them is listening to Christ.” (Lumen Timothy, which describes the qualities of bishops (3:1-7). Gentium #20) St. Clement (+97 AD) writes about apostolic succession This apostolic mandate is carried on by the Holy Spirit. A

Story by Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Siegel 19 bishop is ordained by the “The bishop is the sign of the of Christ is proper, ordinary laying on of hands and the love of Jesus Christ: he expresses and immediate, although prayer of consecration by it exercise is ultimately another bishop. By the grace to all individuals and groups of controlled by the supreme of the Holy Spirit, the new whatever tendency – with a universal authority of the Church.” bishop receives the fullness charity – the love of the Good (Lumen Gentium #27) This of the Sacrament of Holy Shepherd ... He will proclaim the truths means that although the Orders and receives a sacred of the faith with pastoral love…but will bishop is not a “vicar of the character impressed upon his proclaim them clearly for he know the pope” but rather possesses soul. By ordination, he also apostolic authority in his becomes part of the College liberating quality of truth ... The own right, this authority of Bishops, in hierarchical bishop stands with his brother bishops must be exercised in communion with the pope, and the Roman Pontiff as a teacher of communion with the whole who is the bishop of Rome the Catholic faith, whose purity and Church under the guidance and the head of the college, integrity is guaranteed by the presence of the Holy Father. and with his brother bishops of the Holy Spirit in the Church ..." The identity and special throughout the world. responsibilities of the bishop The collegial nature of the are expressed by the rituals episcopal ordination is and insignia given to the illustrated by the tradition bishop in the ceremonies that at least two bishops serve as co-consecrators at the of episcopal ordination: ordination of a new bishop. Lawful ordination of a bishop “The placing of the Book requires the appointment (or confirmation in the case of of Gospels over the head of many Eastern Churches) by the pope, who is the supreme, the bishop-elect during the visible bond of communion of the local churches with the Prayer of Ordination, as well one Church. as the presentation of it to A diocesan bishop is Christ’s vicar in the particular Church him illustrate that the faithful to which he is assigned, teaching, sanctifying and governing preaching of the word of in the name of Christ and His Church. He is responsible God is the pre-eminent for the handing down of the faith, the celebration of the obligation of the office of sacraments and the communal life of charity in the local the bishop. The anointing of the bishop-elect’s head (with Church. The Rite of the Ordination of a Bishop states, Sacred Chrism) is the sign of the bishop’s distinctive share “Among the principal offices of bishops the preaching of the in the fullness of the priesthood of Christ. The presentation Gospel is preeminent, for bishops are heralds of the faith, of the ring symbolizes the bishop’s fidelity to the Bride of who lead new disciples to Christ, and are authentic teachers, Christ, the Church; the investiture with the miter signifies his who proclaim to the people entrusted to them the faith that resolve to pursue holiness; the presentation of the pastoral is to be believed and the that is to direct their conduct. Just staff (crosier) signifies the duty of guiding and governing the as through the ministry of the word they communicate God’s Church entrusted to him. The fraternal kiss of that the newly power to those who believe unto salvation, so too through ordained bishop receives from the principal ordained bishop the sacraments they sanctify the faithful: they regulate the and from all the bishops, seals, so to speak, his admittance conferral of baptism, they are the originating ministers into the College of Bishops.” (Rite of the Ordination of a of confirmation, they are the dispensers of Sacred Orders Bishop #26) and the moderators of penitential discipline. Signed with In an address to the bishops of the United States on Sept. the fullness of the sacrament of Holy Orders, bishops are 5, 1983, St. John Paul II gave a beautiful summary of the ‘stewards of the grace of the supreme priesthood,’ especially identity and role of the bishop: “The bishop is the sign of in the Eucharist, which they offer or cause to be offered. the love of Jesus Christ: he expresses to all individuals and Moreover, every lawful celebration of the Eucharist is groups of whatever tendency – with a universal charity – the regulated by the Bishop, because any community of the altar, love of the Good Shepherd ... He will proclaim the truths of under the sacred ministry of the bishop, stands out as a the faith with pastoral love…but will proclaim them clearly symbol of the charity and unity of the Mystical Body” (# 14). for he know the liberating quality of truth ... In a word, the With regard to governance, the Second Vatican Council bishop, as a sign of compassion, is at the same time a sign of teaches, “The bishops, as vicars and ambassadors of Christ, fidelity to the doctrine of the Church. The bishop stands with govern the particular churches entrusted to them by their his brother bishops and the Roman Pontiff as a teacher of the counsels, exhortations and example, but over and above that Catholic faith, whose purity and integrity is guaranteed by also by the authority and sacred power which indeed they the presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church ... My brothers, use only for the edification of their flock in truth and holiness there is no deeper meaning in our lives as bishops than to be ... The power which they exercise is personally in the name living signs of Jesus Christ!”

20 Christ is our Hope / August 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org YOUR STORY Culture

CUCUMBER SALAD

Two cucumbers, peeled and diced (into 1" pieces) 4-5 Roma tomatoes, diced A not-so-ordinary salad … 1 large onion, roughly chopped for a not-so-ordinary time Two sprigs fresh oregano removed from stems and he seasons of Advent into Christmas, and Lent chopped leading into Easter get a lot of attention in the Two tablespoons extra virgin Catholic Church. And, of course, for good olive oil reason! But we never really pay attention to, or Three tablespoons red wine perhaps even know the meaning of, Ordinary vinegar Salt and pepper to taste Time.T Is it because it’s, well ... ordinary? In a small dish, prepare the Not quite so! And here’s why: the Gospel readings focus on Jesus’ life, dressing by combining the olive oil Intuitively, we would think of it meaning teachings and miracles. The vestments and red wine vinegar. Set aside. an unimportant time in the Church, worn during the two periods of Ordinary In a medium to large salad bowl, because of the definition of the word Time are green, which are symbolic of add remaining ingredients. Pour ordinary in the English language. But hope and growth. Ultimately, it is a time dressing over salad and toss. that’s not the case. The Latin word to reflect on the mystery of Christ and a Enjoy with Italian or French bread. ordinalis, or “numbers in a series,” just time for growing in faith. happens to stem from the Latin word I am struck by how often the cyclical ordo, which translates to the English Church seasons and holidays seem to sometimes, simple produces the most word, “order.” But “ordinary,” in the reflect what occurs in my life or in the savory of what life offers. This is true with case of the Church’s “Ordinary Time,” nature around me where I live. Here in cuisine, as well, which leads me to think correlates to the order or counting of the Northern Hemisphere, during the of cucumbers. In the late summer months, days to arrive at the proper length and months of July and August, I find green our kids enjoy harvesting them from the placement of the season within the year. not just on the vestments of my parish garden, ordering them in rows and then In a nutshell, Ordinary Time means the priest, but in the garden that matures counting them to measure the abundance ordered time in the Church calendar, and provides its abundance. Talk about of our garden. They get such joy and occurring twice per year – between Easter symbols of hope and growth! excitement as they bring armloads of them and Advent and Christmas and Lent. While Ordinary Time may still seem into our house to use in a very simple It’s also anything but ordinary since simple compared to Easter or Christmas, recipe that’s anything but ordinary.

Story by Michelle DiFranco | Photography by Shane Folkertsma 21 21 Masters will celebrate Sunday content1.php?secid=13 invites all registered Catholic Things to Do Mass for the group at St. to reserve tickets online. Or scouts – American Heritage Anthony Catholic Church, call the Young Adult Ministry Girls, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Young Adults Invited which is just outside the Office for more information at and Venturers, who will be to a Baseball Game, stadium gates. The price is 815.221.6235. entering the 6th grade, (or Picnic and Mass $30 ticket, which includes higher), in the fall – to come admission to the game, the Catholic Scouts to Hold and share in the spirituality The Young Adult Ministry for all-you-can-eat picnic buffet Retreat/Campout in and fun. Scouts may attend the diocese is sponsoring an and soft drinks. If you'd like mid August as a unit or individually with event on Aug. 10 at 1 p.m. to purchase just a ticket to a parent or guardian. For in Joliet. They are inviting the game and join the group A retreat /campout will be more information, contact young adults to gather for for Mass afterward, then held for the Catholic scouts jolietcatholicscouts@gmail. a Joliet Slammers baseball you're welcome to reserve a of the Diocese of Joliet from com or go to their website game at Silver Cross Field $10 ticket. Kids and families Aug 15-17 on the grounds at www.dioceseofjoliet. in their own private event are welcome to participate, of St. Mary Parish in Plano. org/scouting and click on area with a picnic buffet. as well. Go to www. The Diocese of Joliet Catholic “Events.” Look for the “Ros-a- After the game, Father Burke dioceseofjoliet.org/yam/ Committee on Scouting Ree” event for all the details.

Parish in Wheaton (1989). On June 22, 2005 he retired from ministry. In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, Father White served as diocesan consultor (1973), dean (1973), member of the Joliet Diocesan Board of Education (1980) and pro- synodal judge of the tribunal (1983).

Fortieth Annual Seminarian Sendoff to Be Held in Early August

The 40th Annual Seminarian Sendoff will be held on Aug. 3 at the Krasa Center at Benedictine University in Lisle from 1:30-4:30 p.m. The theme this year is “Celebrating the Future of the Priesthood.” The sendoff provides an opportunity for members of the diocese to show their support and encouragement for the men – and their families – who are in formation for the priesthood. Join Bishop R. Daniel Conlon’ Father Burke Masters, the diocesan vocation director; Serra Club members; and nearly 400 others who will get acquainted with the seminarians and their families during fellowship, dinner St. Mary’s Carmelite Church in downtown Joliet, which was closed in 1991, still and a short program, including a brief lives on – at least its bell does. The bell, cast by the Meneely Bell Foundry in West Troy, introduction of each seminarian. N.Y., in 1879, was purchased by the church in 1882 for $6,145. In mid-July, it was For reservations, please email transported to the Blanchette Catholic Center in Crest Hill and was installed in the front of John Matyasik at jmatyasik@ the building, which is where Bishop R. Daniel Conlon and the diocesan curia work. The stpiuslombard.org. The cost is $25 stained glass windows in the center’s chapel is also from St. Mary’s Carmelite Church. for adults; children from the ages of five St. Mary’s was Joliet’s third-oldest parish, but the first one located on the East side of the through 12 are $15; and children under city. The inscription on the front of the bell, from the Gospel of Luke, reads: “Hail, full of the age of five are free. For more details grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women.” It weighs 6,185 pounds and information on being a sponsor with and has a circumference of 17.8 feet. Meanwhile, by way of contrast, the Liberty Bell in the Serra Club, go to serradupage.org. Philadelphia weighs only 2,080 pounds and has a circumference of 12 feet.

22 Christ is our Hope / August 2014 / Dioceseofjoliet.org YOUR STORY

health of the woman. Some Last Word of the biomarkers are the presence of cervical mucus – its quality/quantity, the the days of fertility as defined nature of menstrual bleeding, by the system, the effectiveness and the length of pre- and to achieve pregnancy is about post-ovulatory phases. The 20-40 percent, and with the observations are the vital part addition of medical treatment, of infertility assessment and it increases to about 80 percent. are an important tool in timely We have to recognize that there Regarding a Method of scheduling of certain tests that are some problems that can’t be might be ordered by medical treated. In general, we can say Natural Family Planning consultants. It is a very natural that NaProTechnology brings system. It works in cooperation new hope to couples suffering with a woman’s body. It allows from infertility. a woman to really get to know aria Onak, a parishioner at how this important system of What is the effectiveness Divine Mercy Parish in Lombard, her body works, what is normal of the method to not M has been dealing with infertility for her, as well as notice any achieve pregnancy? in her married life. As a way to problems early on. The Creighton Model System is a very versatile system. It can be deal with it, she has turned to Natural Couples don’t know there is something available used to both achieve and avoid Procreative Technology, commonly out there, other than in pregnancy. The research shows referred to as NaProTechnology, which vitro or insemination. With that the effectiveness of the is a relatively new health science that NaProTechnology, the couple Creighton Model System is the monitors and maintains a woman’s will be treated for the problem same as the pill, with method reproductive and gynecological health. that might cause infertility. effectiveness at 99.5 percent and use-effectiveness of 96.8 percent. It offers surgical and medical treatments Some of the problems treated include endometriosis, ovarian that cooperate with a woman’s cysts, polycystic ovarian disease, For those who are interesting reproductive system. Onak, a nurse and miscarriages. In some in learning more about practitioner, also teaches the Creighton cases, male infertility also can NaProTechnology, you can contact Model System, an important part of be addressed. It is a different Maria Onak to learn more NaProTechnology. One of the leading approach from the standard since she teaches it. Her email is [email protected]. Or advocates of NaProTechnology is the methods, like in vitro fertilization or artificial insemination. go to her website, which is www. Pope Paul VI Institute for the Study of Additionally, medical consultants fccbloomingdale.org. The Diocese of Human Reproduction in Omaha, Neb., may treat women with chronic Joliet also offers classes in English whose mission is to build a culture of life inflammatory disorders of and Spanish that teaches another in woman’s health care. cervix, hormonal problems, method – the Billings Ovulation premenstrual syndrome, or Method – for those couples who postpartum depression. want to participate in Natural Family Planning in order to achieve Some of the goals of What is NaPro How effective is this or postpone pregnancy. For more NaProTechnology include Technology? method? information on these classes, go working toward assessing It’s a new medical science The Creighton Model System to http://www.dioceseofjoliet. the underlying causes of the that allows medical consultants can be used to achieve and avoid org/familyministry/ reproductive abnormality; (physicians, nurse practitioners, pregnancy. For the couples of subsectioncontent. treating the underlying causes; physician assistants) to treat normal fertility, the effectiveness php?secid=7&subsecid=8. and assisting the couple in infertility, including medical in achieving pregnancy is 76 Other resources and independent achieving pregnancy while and surgical methods. It also percent during the first cycle; 90 Natural Family Planning providers allowing for the natural involves the Creighton Model percent by the 3rd cycle; and 98 also offering instruction include: acts of procreation. Carlos System – the system that percent by the 6th cycle. Using Creighton FertilityCare at www. Briceño recently interviewed teaches women how to observe the Creighton Model System may fertilitycare.org; Couple-to-Couple Onak about the benefits of certain biomarkers, which allow the couple to recognize League at http://ccli.org; Chris NaProTechnology and the allow the couple to recognize that they have problems with and Michele Gonzales (Harrisburg Creighton Model System for fertile and infertile days, and achieving pregnancy and seek Sympto-Thermal Method): couples who are experiencing provides information about the treatment sooner. In couples [email protected] or infertility in their marriage. gynecological and reproductive with infertility, when they use at 847.749.8333.

23 23 Holy Spirit Catholic Community, Naperville

St. Charles Borromeo, Bensenville

St. Joseph Parish, Bradley

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