SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:30 PM Page 1 Sooner Catholic Serving the People of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City Volume 34, Number 11 * May 27, 2007 Could State Immigration Law Send Church Workers to Jail?

By Greg Horton that the Catholic Church has not For the Sooner Catholic relied on federal money at any time OKLAHOMA CITY — Gov. Brad during his tenure, and Linda Koenig, Henry’s signature on the Oklahoma the associate director of administra- Taxpayer and Citizen Protection Act tion for Catholic Charities in of 2007 on May 8 has left churches Oklahoma City, confirmed that her and charities with some uncertainty organization got very little funding regarding benevolent services. from tax revenues. “We have received money the past Among other activities, the law three calendar years to conduct criminalizes harboring, transporting, an education program about anti- concealing or assisting undocumented discrimination in employment aliens “in furtherance of the presence practices,” Koenig said. “The grant of the illegal alien in the United was funded through a grant proposal States.” State Rep. Randy Terrill written in conjunction with a (R-Moore), the author of HB 1804, Department of Justice program. It said the law is not designed to target totaled $2,600 in 2005 and I believe churches and charities that provide the amount is $4,500 for 2007.” short-term emergency and benevolent A program of that sort would not aid, such as food, clothing and trans- fall under the provisions of the new portation for emergency medical law. However, any program that treatment. Pentecost Sunday received funds through President According to Terrill, the law is Bush’s Faith-Based and Community targeted at employers who knowingly Initiatives program could conceivably hire and transport undocumented be in danger of criminal culpability, agnusimages.com May 27 aliens, as well as at individuals and depending on which services they organizations that provide shelter provide. and aid for the purpose of assisting Application of the new law will in the maintenance of the recipients’ rely on the individual interpretations Catholic Lawmaker Stood illegal status. Additionally, Terrill of district attorneys and on what said the law targeted any agency Terrill called “the reasoned applica- that uses taxpayer funds to provide Against Pro-Abortion Pressure tion of case law by judges.” That spells benefits: education, health care, By Ray Dyer Senate Bill 139. The pro-life legislation uncertainty for what the law means housing and basic subsistence. The Sooner Catholic was approved by both the Senate and in practice, and Oklahomans probably OKLAHOMA CITY — Rebecca the House and forwarded to Gov. Brad “A private charity using private won’t know anything about the legal Hamilton is a state lawmaker who Henry. Earlier this legislative session, funds is exempted in the law,” Terrill ramifications until arrests are made said, referring to Section 8-C-5 of the represents an area on the south side of Henry vetoed SB 714, a pro-life bill. after the law takes effect on Nov. 1, new law. Terrill said organizations Oklahoma City. It’s a diverse area Twice attempts in the Senate to over- 2007. like Catholic Charities would be made up of many cultures with just as ride that veto fell short by one vote. As Father Michael Chapman of Holy affected by the law, though. many needs. Hamilton does her best to of press time, the governor had not Angels Church in Oklahoma City is “Catholic Charities is one of the represent the different people and their taken action on this latest pro-life concerned that despite the lack of few, if not the only, religious charities different needs. She’s known as some- effort. funding to enforce the provisions, the that uses taxpayer money,” Terrill one who is willing to stand up for what new law represents a more troubling According to those watching from said. she believes. Or in her words, “for doing attitude in the country. the gallery, Hamilton deserves much In fact, many religious organiza- what it is I think God wants me to do.” “This law represents an attitude credit that such an effort is even tions rely on local, state and federal that borders on cultural prejudice,” he It was that quality that recently possible. Tony Lauinger, executive grants to provide benefits. Those said. “It sets up a system that will brought her words of thanks but even director of Oklahomans For Life Inc., grants would be covered as “taxpayer make people skittish because of some- more words of condemnation. Hamilton called Hamilton “the heroine” of SB money” according to the new law. one’s accent.” was the only Catholic Democrat in the 139. He described her as “a wonderful Archbishop Beltran issued a continued on page 3 House of Representatives to support continued on page 23 statement in March this year, saying Inside Memorial Noted Artist Celebrates Displays Works Life of OKC at Museum On Homeless Man St. Greg’s 7 Campus 24 SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:30 PM Page 2

2 Sooner Catholic ● May 27, 2007

The Good News Sooner Catholic ... Saint Katharine Drexel Most Reverend Eusebius J. Beltran One of my favorite saints is Saint injustices of the society of her day. Thus Archbishop of Oklahoma City Katharine Drexel. Although I never she undertook to establish schools and a Sunday, May 27, I will bless Publisher personally met her, I was told about her university to educate those who were in 1952 in my first year of seminary being discriminated against because of and dedicate the studies. My bishop sent me to Saint their ethnic and cultural heritage. Saint Katharine Ray Dyer Editor Charles Borromeo Seminary which was The story of the mission of Katharine Drexel Retirement located in west Philadelphia. Katharine Drexel is an important part of the history Drexel was then living in retirement at of the Church here in Oklahoma. The Center in El Reno. Sean Dyer her convent just north of the city. All of many schools and institutions she opened This wonderful Manager our professors knew Katharine Drexel here were the prelude to the growth and and spoke highly of her on many ministry has been success of the Church in Oklahoma over Archbishop Cara Koenig occasions. Beltran the past 100 years. Her great under- in preparation for Layout/Design/ Katherine (she changed the spelling taking while benefiting the Church the past 10 years. Photographer of her name when she entered the throughout the United States did not stop convent) was born into the wealthy there. Her vision and efforts are an Drexel family in Philadelphia on Nov. important part of our national history. On Oct. 1, 2000, I was blessed to Mauro Yanez 26, 1858. She died in 1955 at the age of Our civil society still reaps the benefits of participate and concelebrate the Mass Hispanic Editor 96. Well educated and accepted into the the dedication and mission of Katharine in which Pope John Paul II canonized socialist society of her day, she literally Drexel. It was she who, through faith and Saint Katharine Drexel. She had Eileen Dugan gave it all up. This included the vast education, prepared our country to make inspired me since my seminary days Staff Writer financial heritage she inherited. She the changes in law and the life of the and continues now to give me courage gave up fame, fortune and ease for the civil rights movement. Many of the and joy in serving God and the people of Geraldine Hardin love of Jesus. She gave it all away and great leaders in the African American this Archdiocese. Office dedicated herself to the Gospel. She and American Indian movements of On Sunday, May 27, I will bless and reached out personally and through the the ’60s were students and graduates dedicate the Saint Katharine Drexel religious community she established 7501 Northwest Expressway of Katharine Drexel’s schools and Retirement Center in El Reno. This to correct the rampant injustices Oklahoma City, OK 73132 university. wonderful ministry has been in perpetrated against American Indian (405) 721-1810 Fax: (405) 721-5210 While Katharine Drexel made such preparation for the past 10 years. It is a and African American people. e-mail: [email protected] a distinctive contribution to American ministry of faith sponsored by the Mailing Address Katharine Drexel’s dedication history, she went about it quietly. She people of Sacred Heart Church in El originally centered on her sincere avoided fanfare and fame. She saw a Reno and approved and encouraged by P.O. Box 32180 concern for the Indian people of our cause where justice was needed and she the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. The Oklahoma City, OK 73123 country.She recognized that government supported it. She recognized that this name selected to honor Saint Katharine inertia or bad faith was depriving them cause is the cause of Jesus Christ Drexel and to invoke her saintly help Visit us online through the of the opportunity to hear the Gospel and expressed in the Beatitudes. She thus was the choice of the committee from El Archdiocesan Web Page at practice the Christian faith freely. served God first and her brothers and Reno. I gladly and enthusiastically www.catharchdioceseokc.org. Shortly after establishing her religious sisters in need. Her mission and her accepted their recommendation and community to confront this evil social contribution were total and complete. declared Saint Katharine Drexel The Sooner Catholic (USPS 066-910) is condition, she also recognized the plight She lived and practiced the Great Retirement Center as our newest published biweekly except for once in July of the African Americans in our country. Commandment of love. She gave away ministry of service of the Catholic and twice in December by the Archdiocese She saw the Gospel and education all that she had and kept nothing for Church of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma of Oklahoma City. as essential elements to correct the grave herself. City. The newspaper is not responsible for Pastoral Musician’s Scholarship Offered Another Round for Catholic Education unsolicited material. CFO Golf Classic June 11 The Catholic Foundation is a scholarship specifically for this Copyright © 2006 Sooner Catholic pleased to announce the formation of purpose.” OKLAHOMA CITY — The the Bob Little Pastoral Musician’s With the Pastoral Musician’s sixth annual Catholic Foundation Subscription rate: $20 per year for all Scholarship. Scholarship as an incentive, the likeli- Golf Classic benefiting Catholic who are not members of the education is set for June 11 at Twin The scholarship will provide a hood of a renewed interest in music Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Hills Golf and Country Club in $1,000 award annually to a student ministries is apparent. Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma Oklahoma City. from the Archdiocese of Oklahoma Eligible candidates must be recent City, OK 73125. There is a shotgun start at noon City pursuing a degree in pastoral high school graduates or current POSTMASTER: Send address changes with wine and cheese for spouses nusic. Plans are in place to increase college students majoring in and with to the Sooner Catholic, P.O. Box at 3:30 p.m. Dinner will follow the award amount and number of a desire to pursue a career in pastoral 32180, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. scholarships in subsequent years as music. tournament play. Participants could demand warrants. The scholarship Candidates must be attending win the Archbishop’s Traveling will be renewable annually for up to a pastoral music degree-granting Trophy or a Pontiac Solstice from four years, and can be applied to college or university, and be an active Rick Jones Pontiac-Buick-GMC for a either tuition, books or applied music and participating member of his/her hole-in-one. Numerous other contest fees. home Catholic parish. awards and auction items will be For additional information on the available. Bob Little of Hinton said he Bob Little Pastoral Musician’s Join us for a day of fellowship established the Pastoral Musician’s Scholarship, contact either your and competition. All proceeds go to Scholarship because “fewer and fewer pastor or the Catholic Foundation at the Catholic Schools Endowment. people are showing an interest in (405) 721-4115. Brochures and entry forms are The Sooner Catholic is music ministries,” and said he “hopes Application forms have been available in your parish office or by supported through the to encourage students to consider the mailed to all Catholic parishes and the contacting the Catholic Foundation Archdiocesan Development Fund. field of pastoral music by establishing deadline for applying is July 2. at (405) 721-4115. SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:30 PM Page 3

May 27, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 3

Priest Made Case for Governor to Veto Immigration Measure EDITOR’S NOTE: On such an investigation entirely contrary to our lation further indicates that undocumented May 4, Father Edward J. gospel values but it is likewise a hopelessly un- immigrants are adding substantially to violent Weisenburger, V.G., was in realistic expectation for persons untrained in the crime. An official with Oklahoma’s Department of a group that met with a complexities of immigration law. It would seem Corrections states that less than 2 percent of representative of Gov. Brad that the real goal of the legislation is to intimidate persons incarcerated for violent crimes in Henry to discuss immigration and frighten Christian people into abandoning Oklahoma are undocumented immigrants. Too, issues. Father Weisenburger our own ethic. HB 1804 implies that it will prevent illegal left this written statement The Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) are immigrants from obtaining driver’s licenses. The with the governor’s filled with examples of reluctant prophets. Many truth is that the Department of Public Safety representative. On May 8, had no personal desire to speak out against in- already verifies residency status before granting Gov. Henry signed House Bill justice, hatred or the abandonment of God’s driver’s licenses. If there are forged identification 1804 into Law. Below is demands of His people. But choosing to be ever cards being issued to undocumented immigrants, Father Weisenburger’s statement. faithful to their God, and oftentimes in spite of the then they are not coming from our state agencies. consequences, they did indeed speak the truth and Moreover, HB 1804 does not even address the walked in the ways of their God. I am quite certain trafficking of forged documents! The legislation House Bill 1804 that a great many Roman Catholic priests, lay then places a gravely undue hardship on state and Following careful study and consideration of ministers and volunteers will not be cowed by the local law enforcement officials who lack the time, House Bill 1804, one cannot help but realize that threats of this flawed and sinful legislation. If we resources or expertise to act as local agents of the the legislation is gravely flawed and contrary to must, then we will be prophetic by continuing to federal immigration police. Christian teachings and practice. live the Gospel of Jesus. We will reach out to those Ultimately, HB 1804 is a blend of elements The Gospel of Jesus Christ does not simply in desperate need, regardless of their immigration which are already federal law (and thereby don’t invite us to reach out to the sick, the outcast, the status, by continuing to transport abused women need to be repeated), language which is inflam- suffering and the dying — it requires and to shelters. Likewise, we will continue to trans- matory and punitive against immigrants, onerous demands that we do so in the name of our Savior. port hungry persons, including infants and small obligations on already overworked state and local We are called and required to respond to those in children, to food pantries and emergency shelters. law enforcement agencies, and intimidation need regardless of their race, religion or — as in And if forced to do so, then we will be prophetic by against people of Faith who wish to live out their the case at hand — their documented immigration accepting the consequences of our state’s persecu- Gospel commitment. It capitulates to misinforma- status. If HB 1804 becomes law, then it will not tion of this essential teaching of Christianity. tion and misguided fears. merely be a misdemeanor for a priest, lay minister Beyond our religious beliefs, HB 1804 is badly Regardless of the popularity or consequences, or volunteer to transport an undocumented flawed in a great many ways readily grasped by the only ethical response from our State’s highest abused woman to a shelter, but will make it a thoughtful persons of every creed and ethic. The leader is a firm veto. felony! Other similar activities call for the same bill accepts numerous allegations as truth which Respectfully submitted, punishment. It would seem that the only alterna- are actually myth. For instance, it alleges that Rev. Edward J. Weisenburger tive, according to HB 1804, would be for ministers, undocumented persons are annually receiving church employees and volunteers to try to verify millions of dollars in state benefits for which they Vicar General the immigration status of persons approaching us are not entitled. Howard Hendrick, director of Roman Catholic with critical needs before we offer help. Not only is DHS, asserts this to be entirely untrue. The legis- Archdiocese of Oklahoma City

Church Workers Back for a Second Helping continued from page 1 impact on our nation,” the cardinal said. “Let us not Father Chapman said the new law creates give into the temptation to scapegoat all immigrants Chew on This who come to our land — and who contribute their problems for local law enforcement as well. “If you’re OKLAHOMA CITY — On June 2 at 6 p.m., sheriff in Caddo County, you don’t have the space to God-given talent to our communities…” the Religious Education Board of Our Lady’s incarcerate migrant workers, and you also have the Terrill is reluctant to discuss specific scenarios, Cathedral will continue the speaker series that added burden of angering the farmers in the area who saying, “I’m interested in listening to rational can literally be described as food for thought. need workers for their fields and crops.” concerns, not fears about these things that aren’t so. Appropriately titled “Chew On This,” the series, The question of funding to enforce the law has However, if there are problems with the law, I want to held in the Connor Center at the Cathedral of Our been asked repeatedly over the past several months, know about it.” Lady of Perpetual Help, will also include food and Terrill has continued to insist that the law will Father Chapman said he believes that Terrill is “save more money than it costs. (bring your favorite dish to share) and beverages. correct about the law’s impact on charities. “All I know “Space for incarceration is an issue,” Terrill said, The March speaker’s topic, “Social Justice,” left is what I’ve heard and read, and it seems the law is “but we’re looking at alternatives. Small municipali- the audience hungry for more. Our next install- concerned with cutting off public funds for illegal ties will feel the burden but there are federal funds ment promises to be an even more enticing immigrants.” available to reimburse towns and counties for in- dialogue on the Old Testament by Father Edward carcerating foreign nationals. Obviously, if other If there are negative repercussions to the law, Weisenburger. states enact this sort of legislation, the available Father Chapman said it will be important for young Father Weisenburger, pastor of the Cathedral money would decrease.” Hispanics to get involved in the public sector. “We of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and Vicar General The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has need eligible voters to get registered,” he said. “There of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, will present launched a campaign to address the type of restrictive has been a 35 percent increase in the Hispanic a sweeping overview on the Old Testament and immigration reform that is now the law in Oklahoma. population in Oklahoma City over the past 10 years. how it relates to the Gospels and New Testament Called “Justice for Immigrants: A Journey of Hope,” We need people to sign up to vote.” Letters. the campaign is meant to address the attitudes of Pat Fennell, executive director of the Latino Saturday, June 30: Judy Reilly, “Celebrating Catholics in a post-911 world. Cardinal Theodore Community Development Agency, agrees. “We have Our Lady of Perpetual Help.” McCarrick, a consultant to the USCCB, said, “We the numbers,” she said. “We have to get people signed Saturday, Aug. 18: Archbishop Beltran, “What acknowledge that the current negative environment up and voting. The sad thing is that politicians will it Means to be a Catholic.” towards immigrants is due, in part, to the horrific continue to create this kind of legislation until the For more information, contact Faith Reilly at attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, which have had a profound Latino population starts making them accountable.” 523-3057. SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:30 PM Page 4

4 Sooner Catholic ● May 27, 2007 Eucharistic Procession Celebrated at Conception Seminary College By Jarrod Thome Pope Benedict XVI has encouraged Conception Seminary these observances that offer a CONCEPTION, Mo. — Every dynamic witness to Jesus’ Real year, on the fourth Sunday of Easter, Presence in the Holy Eucharist. I pray we not only celebrate Good Shepherd that this event on April 29, the World Sunday but also “World Day of Prayer Day of Prayer for Vocations, will for Vocations.” Established by Pope inspire and strengthen priestly Paul VI in 1963, this year marks its vocations in our dioceses.” Gerald 44th anniversary, and the Conception Curren, Grand Knight of the Seminary College Knights of Conception Seminary Council and Columbus (Council 13750) marked senior from the Archdiocese of the occasion by organizing a two-mile Oklahoma City was glad to have the Oklahoma seminarian Corey Stanley participates in the Eucharistic Procession at Eucharistic procession. opportunity to be a part of the event. Conception Seminary. Photos/Juan Navarrette “It was a beautiful experience that I The event was a definite success, and my brother seminarians will of Christ, a reflection of the mystery Holy Eucharist. In his message for bringing a crowd of around 200 faith- remember for the rest of our lives. of God, has at its heart a call to this day of prayer for vocations, the ful together on a beautiful spring For many of us, this was our first communion — communion with one Holy Father writes, “At the center of afternoon. The procession started at 1 Eucharistic procession.” another (as there is communion every Christian community is the p.m. in the Basilica of the Immaculate It is appropriate that the Knights between the members of the Trinity) Eucharist, the source and summit of Conception and ended at nearby St. of Columbus of Conception Seminary and communion with God, which is the life of the Church. Whoever places Columbia Parish in Conception chose to coordinate a Eucharistic experienced as an innate longing in himself at the service of the Gospel, Junction. The procession had two procession in recognition of this day, our human nature, and received as a if he lives the Eucharist, makes scheduled stops for Benediction and, since Pope Benedict chose as a theme vocation at baptism. Both of these progress in love of God and neighbor in between, those involved recited the “The vocation to the service of the senses of communion attain deeper and thus contributes to building Chaplet of Divine Mercy and the Church as communion.” The Church meaning through participation in the the Church as communion.” A luminous mysteries of the rosary. Eucharistic procession, as Bishop Additionally, traditional Eucharistic Finn alluded to, recognizes this hymns — led by the monastic schola reality as it displays reverence for the and student choir — also added to Real Presence of Christ. the beauty of the celebration. While efficiently moving that many people It is exciting to see such a display from one point to another is no small of devotion from so many people. The task, the event went smoothly and fact that it was organized, in large maintained a prayerful and reverent part, by the seminarians who are atmosphere due to hard work by the themselves studying for the priest- seminarians and detailed organiza- hood is also edifying as it gives tion. evidence that they are just as Bishop Robert Finn of the Kansas concerned with future vocations as City-St. Joseph Diocese, although not they are their own. This display of able to attend, offered his support communion and faith that the “Lord through a missive sent to Knight and of the harvest” is here among us not Conception Seminary junior Andy Seminarian Gerald Curren, from the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, stands ready as a only demonstrates that the harvest is Hayes, who played a major role in member of the Knights of Columbus to participate in the Eucharistic Procession. plentiful but also that there will be planning the event: “The Holy Father laborers to tend to it.

Priest, Parish Celebrate Anniversary of Ordination NICOMA PARK — Approximately 300 members of Parishioners opened this portion of the celebration Our Lady of Fatima gathered at the Eastern Oklahoma with prayer and singing of the national anthem. County Technology Center in Choctaw on May 6 to Entertainment was provided by St. Gregory’s Spirit celebrate the golden anniversary of Father Wilbur E. and Sole Dance troupe, by the Seraphims (the parish Moore’s ordination to the priesthood. children’s choir) who sang “Day by Day” and “Happy Father Moore was baptized a Catholic on June 6, Anniversary,” and by a trio of young girls from the 1942, at the age of 13 and ordained a priest by Bishop parish who serenaded Father with “Hopelessly Eugene McGuinness on May 25, 1957. During these 50 Devoted To You.” years of priesthood, Father Moore served the flocks of A memory book containing parishioners’ memories Saint Mary’s Church, Tulsa; Sacred Heart, Alva; Holy and pictures of Father was prepared and presented to Name of Jesus, Chickasha; Saint Joseph Church, Ada, him. A special video of Father’s life was presented and and these last 15 years at Our Lady of Fatima in viewed with misty eyes and enjoyed by all. Finally, a Nicoma Park. gift in the name of the Parishioners of Our Lady of After a delicious catered dinner, the attendees Fatima was presented to Father Moore in appreciation moved to the auditorium for the evening program. of his many years of service to our church. Father Moore in his garden. SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:30 PM Page 5

May 27, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 5 Shawnee Parish Celebrates 100th Anniversary of Building

By Alex Lee with a cross-topped steeple is still standing at St. Benedict Catholic Church the corner of Kickapoo and Benedict streets after 100 years, with more than 600 families from SHAWNEE — Early settlers in Oklahoma the northern two-thirds of Pottawatomie County were known for their pioneer spirit, tenacity, perse- calling it their parish. verance and determination to overcome obstacles. The parish commemorated its centennial Those same traits may very well describe the anniversary on Sunday, May 6, with special character the Benedictine monks exhibited when celebrations. A Mass of Thanksgiving was they first arrived in Oklahoma in the 19th century. celebrated at 10 a.m. with Archbishop Eusebius So zealous were these missionary priests for the Beltran as the principal celebrant. Beltran was spread of the Gospel and the salvation of souls assisted by Abbot Lawrence Stasyszen, former that they persistently endured the hardships of associate pastor and current abbot of Saint inclement weather, hunger, thirst and numerous Gregory’s Abbey, Rev. Maurus Jaeb, current pastor, other inconveniences they often encountered in Rt. Rev. Charles Massoth, retired abbot and their pioneer missionary work. former pastor, and Deacon David Schrupp. The Benedictine monks first arrived in what is During his homily, Archbishop Beltran now Pottawatomie County in Oklahoma in 1875 congratulated past and present parishioners for from the Monastery of Pierre-Qui-Vire in France. what they have sacrificed and done for the parish to Among them were Rev. Isidore Robot and Brother make it the dynamic faith community it is today. Dominic Lambert, who established Sacred Heart He also exhorted all parishioners to adhere to Mission and School, forerunner of present-day the mission statement of the parish, which stated in Saint Gregory’s University, near Konawa on land part to “strive to live the mission of Jesus Christ donated by the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. through prayer, the Sacraments, the study of His Another young and charismatic Benedictine word and the teaching of His Church.” priest by the name of Felix DeGrasse was Following the Mass, a centennial banquet was instrumental in setting up parishes throughout the held at the Benedict Center with Mark Bronson, Indian Territory. In the early 1980s, DeGrasse chairman of the parish council, serving as master of began celebrating Mass in Shawnee in the homes of ceremonies. The banquet was attended by more early settlers such as the Cassidys, Dierkers, than 300 parishioners. Each guest was given a Gleasons, Timmonses and Philip Secks. Welch’s beautifully produced commemorative color booklet Feed Store on West Main Street was later used titled “Saint Benedict Catholic Church 100 Years of regularly for Sunday Masses. Worship 1907-2007.” The booklet tells the history In August 1895, DeGrasse purchased lots at the Current photo of Saint Benedict Catholic Church in of the parish and describes the church’s 22 large corner of Ninth and Park streets in Shawnee. With Shawnee. (Courtesy of Alan Day of SCL Photography) stained glass windows, which are valued at the help of enthusiastic parishioners, construction established parishes in Pawhuska, Guthrie, Ponca $500,000 and listed in the Shawnee Chamber of of a new church soon began. The church was built in City, Perry, Mulhall, Langston and Chandler. Commerce’s tour of “Things to See in Shawnee.” the style of an auditorium and a parochial school, The new parish saw significant growth in its After the centennial banquet, Rev. Charles operated by the Sisters of Mercy, began classes in first years and it quickly outgrew the church build- Massoth delighted those in attendance with his October 1896 in the same building. The school was ing. Shortly after 1900, there was much talk of beautiful rendition of “Danny Boy,” “Scarlet Ribbon” separated from the sanctuary during school hours changing the location and building a larger church and “God Bless America,” which brought the guests by a curtain. A large pot-bellied stove provided the to accommodate the burgeoning congregation. to their feet. heat and kerosene lamps furnished the light. The pioneer spirit of the Benedictine monks In closing, Rev. Jaeb thanked all parishioners DeGrasse named it Saint Benedict Catholic Church was again evident when in 1904, Rev. Blaise for their contribution and stewardship to the after the founder of the Benedictine Order. Haritchabalet obtained a beautiful site on North parish. “This celebration is all about the past, DeGrasse thus became the first pastor of Saint Kickapoo Street and built a two-story rectory. present and future of Saint Benedict Parish,” Jaeb Benedict Church and he later was elected abbot On July 29, 1906, the cornerstone of a new brick said. “We are grateful to those who have gone before of the Sacred Heart Abbey, now known as Saint church was laid and construction of the present us in building this church structure for worship 100 Gregory’s Abbey. edifice began. On May 12, 1907, the first Mass was years ago and to the present parishioners who In addition to Shawnee, DeGrasse also celebrated in the new Saint Benedict Church and help in maintaining this beautiful church for future the building was dedicated. generations.” Rev. Gregory Gerrer, O.S.B., who returned from art studies in Europe in 1904, set up his art studio in a This repository stone garage attached to inside Saint the old rectory. His paint- Benedict Church ings and art collection later contains the relics started the Mabee-Gerrer of Saint Benedict, Museum located on the Saint Theresa, campus of Saint Gregory’s Pope Saint Pius University. X, Saint Elizabeth Ann Haritchabalet served as Seton, Saint pastor of Saint Benedict Clare, Saint Parish until 1915 when Vincent de Paul, Saint Gregory’s College and blessed (now Saint Gregory’s Kateri University) opened and he Tekakwitha (Photo courtesy of Rev. Lawrence Stasyszen, abbot of Saint Gregory’s Abbey, Archbishop Beltran and was appointed its first Alan Day of SCL Rev. Maurus Jaeb, pastor, pose for a picture during the centennial celebration at president. Photography) Saint Benedict Church in Shawnee. (Photo by Alex Lee) The red brick building SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:30 PM Page 6

6 Sooner Catholic ● May 27, 2007 Catholic Social Teachings and the Call for a Just Wage This is the second in a series of articles on reap benefits from raising their employees’ wages. current issues of social justice. These articles, A few of the unexpected rewards are: written by Mary Cobb on behalf of the * Loyalty of employees will increase. Workers Archdiocesan Commission on Justice and Human will be more dedicated to increasing the efficiency Development, will provide information, Catholic of the organization. Social Teaching and questions for reflection to * Adequately paid employees do not change jobs guide all Catholics in the work for justice. frequently; they become more proficient and the Jesus emphasized the need to address the company does not have to expend unnecessary plight of the poor. After His ascension, Jesus left us resources to train replacement workers. — the Church — to carry on His mission. We have * It is a fact that lower-income workers spend been focusing on the needs of people who earn the their salaries locally. When companies increase current minimum wage of $5.15 per hour. Congress worker salaries, more money goes into the local has been working on a minimum wage bill. economy and the business may also have increased Increasing the minimum wage is desirable but the income. proposed bill does not provide a just wage — a wage * When companies increase salary rates, they allows the worker to obtain the essential necessities will be called to effectively manage their employees. of adequate housing, food, clothing and health care. Professional managers will efficiently train, Will politicians ever be able to legislate justice manage and evaluate their employees and work within our society? Perhaps we are personally being to remove productivity road blocks from the work- called to advance Jesus’ call for justice, especially in place. regards to the poor. Employees should be expected to “give a good The Church’s social teaching is a rich treasure The Church calls on all of us to embrace this day’s work for a good day’s pay” but they are not of wisdom about building a just society and living preferential love of the poor and vulnerable, to slaves; they should be treated with dignity and lives of holiness amidst the challenges of modern embody it in our lives and to work to have it shape respect and be adequately compensated for their society. The depth and richness of this tradition is public policies and priorities. labors. I have personally supervised hundreds of highlighted in seven key themes that are at the 5. Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers — employees for AT&T/SW Bell through the years. It is heart of our Catholic social tradition. They are: If the dignity of work is to be protected, then the my firm belief that good employees are the key to a 1. Life and Dignity of the Human Person — We basic rights of workers, owners and managers must successful organization and employees are usually believe that every person is precious, that people be respected — the right to productive work, to only as good as the managers for whom they work. are more important than things, and the measure decent and fair wages, to organize and join unions, Did you know …. of every institution is whether it threatens or to economic initiative and to ownership and private * Most waiters and waitresses in Oklahoma enhances the life and dignity of the human person. property. make $2.13 an hour. They are required to pay with- 2. Call to Family, Community and Participation holding tax on their tips so they typically receive no 6. Solidarity — As John Paul II said, “We are all — The God-given institutions of marriage and take-home pay from the restaurant? really responsible for all.” family are central and serve as foundations of social * Church employees are usually paid below the life. They must be supported and strengthened, not 7. Care for God’s Creation — Our stewardship standard for comparable skilled positions? undermined. Beyond the family, every person has a of the earth is a kind of participation in God’s act of * Anyone (coach, referee, minister, musician, right to participate in the wider society and a creating and sustaining the world. notary public, etc.) receiving monies in conjunction corresponding duty to work for the advancement A basic premise of Catholic moral teaching with a service performed is to report all such of the common good and the well-being of all, is that each of us must develop a well-formed amounts as income on their income tax return? especially the poor and weak. conscience, which we consult often. Understanding In a future article you will learn about an 3. Rights and Responsibilities — All citizens Catholic social teachings is important in conscience Oklahoma company that decided — on its own — to have a duty to respect human rights and to fulfill formation. When individuals and businesses make increase the wages of its employees beyond what is their responsibilities to their families, to each other decisions based on well-formed consciences, there required by law. We will explore why they made and to the larger society. can be unexpected rewards. this decision and the impact it has had upon their 4. Option for the Poor and Vulnerable — Contrary to popular belief, small businesses can business. Across Oklahoma New Mexico Tour Set will receive a laptop computer. Drawing will be St. Pat’s Golf Tournament OKLAHOMA CITY — The Archdiocesan held July 29 at Saint Patrick Church. Tickets are OKLAHOMA CITY — On June 24, Saint Office of Worship and Spiritual Life will lead a $5 each or five for $20. All proceeds will be used to Patrick Church will host a four-person golf pilgrimage to the religious sites of the Santa Fe help build a new church hall. To enter, send a scramble at Kickingbird Golf Course. Tee times area Aug. 24-28. The trip includes round-trip check to Saint Patrick Church, P.O. Box 608, begin at 12:30 p.m. Entry fee is $75 per person motor coach from Oklahoma City, accommoda- Fredrick, Okla. 73542. Saint Patrick Church is (includes lunch). Contact Joe Allen at 722-5580 tions at Hotel St. Francis in Santa Fe, daily hot attended from Saint Helen Church in Fredrick. or go to www.stpatricokc.org to obtain an entry breakfast at hotel, admission to all scheduled form. activities, daily supper while in Santa Fe. Lunches Mass Set for Saint Paul are at individual’s expense. Double occupancy DEL CITY — Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic Pilgrimage to Poland and Prague $765 per person; single occupancy $1,060; triple Church will host on May 29 Filipino Flores de OKLAHOMA CITY — Father Price Oswalt of occupancy (two beds) $665 per person; four in Mayo at 5:30 with Mass celebrated in Tagalog at 6 Epiphany Church will lead a pilgrimage from Aug. one room (two beds) $600 per person. For more p.m. A potluck dinner will follow. All are welcome, 27 to Sept. 6, to Poland and Czechoslovakia. Cost information, call (405) 721-5651 Ext. 158. and bring flowers for the Blessed Mother Mary. is $2,950 per person and includes two nights in Warsaw, one night in Czestochowa, three nights Fundraiser Under Way Mass Time Changed each in Krakow and Prague. Included are WALTERS — Saint Patrick Catholic Church OKLAHOMA CITY — Effective Sunday, June air Oklahoma City, Tulsa and DFW; daily break- is hosting a raffle in which the grand prize is a 42- 3, the 5:30 p.m. Sunday Mass at Saint Eugene fast and dinners. Call John Tagnesi at 1-888-544- inch HD plasma television. Second-place winner Parish will be changed to 5 p.m. 4461. SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:30 PM Page 7

May 27, 2007 Sooner Catholic 7

Memorial Celebrates Life, Death of Homeless Man Appreciation OKLAHOMA CITY — Around 40 people attended a memorial service Dinner Set celebrating the life of a homeless MOORE — Archbishop Oklahoma City man. The May 8 Eusebius J. Beltran is among memorial, coordinated by Sister the invited guests for the Barbara Joseph Foley, CST, celebrated 2007 Archdiocesan Clergy/- the life and death of Steve Beachboard. Religious Appreciation Dinner, The 54-year old man died under an I-40 this year being hosted by Knights overpass near the downtown area. of Columbus Council 9901. Father Rex Arnold led the The event will be held on June memorial, celebrated at the chapel at 12 in the recently renovated Joyce Resurrection Cemetery. The Catholic Center of St. Andrew Catholic cemetery donated services as did Smith Church in Moore. The evening is & Kernke Funeral Homes. scheduled to begin with a Social Father Arnold and Sister Barbara Hour at 6 p.m. followed by a Joseph first came in contact with catered dinner at 7 p.m. Beachboard while working with the This annual gathering Hot Dogs for the Homeless ministry. provides an opportunity for Beachboard was one of the first people Knights of Columbus councils to the founder of Hot Dogs for the honor the clergy and religious of Homeless, Rick Swyden, handed a sack Chris Engle talks about his dealings with the late Steve Beachboard during a the Archdiocese of Oklahoma lunch to more than four years ago. memorial ceremony. Photo/Courtesy City with a formal event held in Beachboard was well known to appreciation of their untiring those who work with the homeless of indicated Beachboard’s birthday was money of the poor; the acts of charity June 23. that you do not perform are so many service to the Church and the Oklahoma City. He often stayed in the community. doorway of a building on Sheridan, just At the memorial service, Father injustices that you commit.” Arnold quoted from Saint Basil: “He Father Arnold said he appreciated K of C councils throughout the east of Classen. The owners of the Archdiocese will be sponsoring building eventually fenced off the door- who strips a man of his clothes is to be the words of a Nazarene minister who called a thief. Is not he who, when he is spoke at the memorial service. “He said their priests, deacons, nuns and way, forcing the homeless man to take seminarians as well as providing shelter elsewhere. able, fails to clothe the naked, worthy of the Greeks contend the poor are God’s no other title? The bread which you do ambassadors, placed here to give us the additional funds to ensure that “Steve touched so many lives and I clergy and religious not directly don’t think he ever intended to,” Sister not use is the bread of the hungry; the opportunity to do good.” garment hanging in your wardrobe is Others who spoke at the service supported by them may also Barbara Joseph said. She said she attend the event. learned of his death when contacted by the garment of him who is naked; the included Chris Engle and Linda Hearn. shoes that you do not wear are the Music was provided by singers from Reservations can be made by Smith & Kernke. Sister said a 1987 calling St. Andrew Parish at 799- Florida driver’s license and some shoes of the one who is barefoot; the Saint John the Baptist Catholic money that you keep locked away is the Church in Edmond. 3334 or K of C Council 9901 Grand other identification cards found on him Knight, Ray Hulley at 605-7919. Generous Parishioner Turns Wedding Gowns Into Parish Fundraiser EL RENO — Thanks to the generosity of a parishioner, Sacred Heart Church will hold an unusual fundraiser here on June 2. More than 150 wedding gowns will be on sale in the Sacred Heart gym. The gowns, along with an assortment of bridesmaids dresses and dresses for flower girls and even some tuxedos, will be sold begin- ning at 7 a.m. Shanon Eaton, one of the coordinators for the event, said the dresses were donated by a member of the parish who wishes to remain anonymous. “This is just a wonderful gift to the parish,” Eaton said. She said shoppers will find some fantastic bargains. “There are some dresses that would cost from $700 to $800 if they were purchased in a store,” Eaton said. Many of those dresses will be sold on June 2 for half that Dozens of beautiful wedding gowns will be amount, she said. sold for a fraction of their original cost More than two dozen of the dresses are new, while the on June 2 at Sacred Heart Church in others have been rented, but all are in tip top condition, El Reno. Eaton said. Wedding gowns will start at about $50 and go up to around $400. Eaton said sizes vary and are available up to 22. The sale is cash only and fitting rooms will be avail- able. Eaton said limited concessions are also being planned. The sale will run until 4 p.m. Dresses and accessories not sold on Saturday will be sold for half price the following day. SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:30 PM Page 8

8 Sooner Catholic ● May 27, 2007 Oklahoma Knights Honored For Service to Church and Fellow Man By Steve Gust given Knight of the Year for his work For the Sooner Catholic with the church and community. Philip is a former U.S. Marine and a LAWTON — The thousands of leader with his church and the volunteers of the Knights of Knights. He headed up small faith- Columbus certainly don’t provide based groups for the church and charitable service thinking about serves on the church board for Our possible awards. Still, the people Lady of Fatima Church in Nicoma so honored annually by the State Park. He also served the council as Council cherish the recognition they Grand Knight for three years and receive. now is the district deputy with the Such was the case again recently Knights. He is a graduate of Mount as the Oklahoma State Council of Saint Mary High School. the Knights of Columbus honored many award winners at their annual Ralph and Florence Gosselin of convention, held in Lawton April Midwest City were lauded as Family Ralph and Florence Gosselin, Family of the Year. 27-29 and hosted by Lawton Council of the Year for their work with the community and support of the and Jessica Munson, outstanding „Jerry Knottingham, Grand No.1287. senior student at Saint Gregory’s. Knight of Lawton Knights of “The Council awards presented foreign exchange student program. Knights donated several thousands Columbus Council No.1287, was at the state convention are true The Gosselins have opened their of dollars for scholarships again at given a centennial notification from examples of the dedication and home to many foreign exchange the convention. They also were the Supreme Council. The Lawton service that our brother Knights students. They ensure that all the briefed for the first time by new Knights started their council 100 perform unselfishly,” said state children in their care receive proper Saint Gregory’s president, Dr. David years ago. deputy Jose Jimenez. “This year’s schooling, after-school activities, Wagie. Also, Abbot Lawrence „Miami Council No.3167 was the award winners will be forwarded to medical care and of course, spiritual Stasysten of Saint Gregory’s Church Activity Award recipient for our Supreme office for consideration focus from the church. Florence also supplies community meals for the announced a pending $20 million chapel work there involving 1,024 in our international award capital campaign for the university. selection.” elderly in her area. Ralph is a volunteer hours and $4,500. Veterans Administration volunteer The drive will be used for facility „Tulsa Bishop Reed Council No. No council stood out as well as upgrades and scholarships, he said. Our Lady of Fatima Council No. and heads up Knights of Columbus 5759 was honored for nursing home activities at the OKC VA Hospital. He further announced a $4 million visits to the elderly at Christmas 5396 of Nicoma Park. They were gift had been made to the campaign. awarded with the top three honors He also worked multiple shifts of time. Their work netted them the a past candy drive to benefit the „Enid Knights of Council No. Community Activity Award. including “Knight of the Year,” 1044 won two awards — for council mentally handicapped. „District Deputies Tim Lang and “Family of the Year” and “Youth of and youth activities. A barbecue Kristy Maly of Nicoma Park was Robert Melko were given recognition the Year.” The council’s achieve- fund-raiser netted more than awarded Outstanding Youth of the for helping in the past year to start ments drew praise later that night $7,000 for charity. Also, the men Year. Kristy, 16, has always been one two new Knights councils in the from Archbishop Beltran during volunteered manpower and money to to help when help is needed and Tulsa area. his remarks before hundreds at the construct a playground at a local generally volunteers without being The Knights are a Catholic, convention banquet. hospital. Grand Knight Doug Chown asked. During summers she donates fraternal service organization with Philip Stramski of Choctaw was accepted on behalf of the Enid time to the Nicoma Park Library and more than 7,000 members in Council. youth programs. She also assisted in Oklahoma and 1.7 million inter- „The Perry Knights of Columbus the painting of the Nicoma Park City nationally. The 102nd Oklahoma Hall and Community Center. Kristy Council No.1053 was honored with the Family Activity of the Year. The State Council convention in Lawton has been very supportive in many also provided members a chance to Knights and church functions. She is Perry Knights hosted a Christmas dinner for members, wives and socialize and hold business sessions a sophomore at Choctaw High School dedicated to several charitable and works to keep her grades in the children, which featured an auction programs of the Knights. top 10 percent of the school. for children. Funds from the auction were used for religious education To find out more about the The Nicoma Park winners also and other programs of Saint Rose of Knights of Columbus in Oklahoma, were recognized by Jimenez. Lima Parish in Perry. Accepting the check out the state Web page at “The winners have an extremely award was Nick Beckham of Perry. www.okkofc.org. strong conviction to their families, Knights and Church.” Other awards: New Officers Elected - Term Starts July 1 „David Groff of McLoud received the Knights “Al Wheeler” scholar- State Deputy Paul Weigl, OKC, St. Eugene ship. He was awarded the $1,000 scholarship for his strong academic State Secretary David Roewe, Edmond, St. Monica’s record at Saint Gregory’s University. State Treasurer Dan Hogan, Bartlesville, St. John’s With him were his parents, Michael State Advocate Ron Schwarz, Edmond, St. Monica’s and Lisa Groff. The Knights also Philip Stramski, Knight of the Year with provided recognition to Maree State Warden Bob Melko, Tulsa, St. Thomas More his wife. Collins, outstanding junior student, SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:30 PM Page 9

May 27, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 9 Archdiocese Celebrates Scouting/Camp Fire Youth

OKLAHOMA CITY — Arch- Youth earn awards and recognition bishop Beltran had a big smile for all by completing age appropriate the young men and women from activities designed to strengthen across the archdiocese who gathered and solidify their relationship at the Catholic Pastoral Center for with Jesus Christ. Each is recognized the annual Mass celebrated for the with a medal designed specifically members of Scouts and Camp Fire. for the program, a certificate signed The April 22 gathering also featured by the archbishop and uniform a reception and awards assembly. emblem. Father Mike Wheelahan, The Mass is organized by Nancy chaplain and adviser to the Arch- Housh, director of the Archdiocesan diocesan Scouting program, and Office of Youth, and Annette Sandi McGivney, archdiocesan chair Guillotte, also of the Youth Office. for the National Catholic Committee They prepare letters and certificates Michael Carpenter and Matthew Grey, pictured here with Archbishop Beltran, were on Scouting, were in attendance. for all the youth in addition to the selected to attend the Saint George Trek last summer. This trek is only offered every Each youth is recognized at the Mass. medals the youth earn. Members of two years and a Scout must be invited to attend. the Archdiocesan Committee on Scouting/Camp Fire come together at members of the committee that will The programs and retreats put on this Mass to recognize and applaud orchestrate their various parts with by the OK NCCS are sponsored by the Catholic youth. specific age groups. It is a lot of fun various organizations including the Scouting/Camp Fire is a ministry for the kids and the adults. Knights of Columbus and other taken very seriously by the National The NCCS offers many other Catholic friends like Dairy Max. Catholic Committee on Scouting opportunities for Scouting youth and Donations are a vital part of our (NCCS) members in the Archdiocese Catholic sponsored troops to earn success in reaching more youth and of Oklahoma City. Twenty-nine recognition and grow in their faith. we are grateful for all those who regional and national members sit on Among these are Unit Awards for support our Scouting/Camp Fire the committee that gathers monthly growth of Catholic troops, Rosary efforts monetarily and spiritually, during the school year to plan Patch Program that promotes learn- through product donations and in activities to promote youth involve- ing the rosary and its spiritual giving of their valuable time. ment in Scouting for the glory of God. benefits, Duty to God Program that Please encourage young men and Each fall they host an encampment encourages youth to explore their women you know to get involved with at Our Lady of Guadalupe that many blessings and their duty to Scouting/Camp Fire. The values they focuses on their gifts from God, serve others, and an International teach will lift them up and give them service projects and how they can Awareness Activity Award that greater confidence in themselves and continue to grow in their Catholic spotlights acceptance of cultural their faith. Contact your local Boy faith. Chairman McGivney coordi- differences by attending Mass and Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of Archbishop Beltran greets a young Scout. nates all of this via the monthly other Catholic activities spoken in America and Camp Fire Boys and meetings and e-mail with the another language. Girls Council for more information. Concert Dedicates New Saint John Nepomuk Organ By Erin Block intonation to provide an ideal comple- ment for a wide variety of musical YUKON — On May 6, Father compositions. Available performance William Novak and Saint John Nepomuk styles include English Cathedral, Catholic Church blessed and dedicated American Classic, Neo-Baroque and the new Saint John parish organ. To French Romantic. celebrate, a concert featuring guest The concert ended with a wine and organist Edwin Day from Christ the hors d’oeuvres reception in Saint King in Oklahoma City demonstrated John’s Marian Hall, coordinated by the beauty of this instrument. parishioners Kathy and Art Chernak. They were aided by parishioners Lori Saint John music director Robert Ruhl and Nick and Erin Block. The Noble planned the Sunday afternoon reception celebrated both the concert concert featuring Day, the Saint John and the generosity of the many donors brass ensemble, the adult choir and bell who made the church’s purchase of the choir performing pieces selected to show- organ possible. case the new organ. Following the blessing of the instrument, Day also The Saint John organ is a brand Guest artist Edwin performed six solo organ works, includ- new Allen Renaissance Quantum Q-385 Day rehearses for the ing Bach’s Prelude and Fugue in D Major featuring an 80 stop/320 voice, three- Sunday afternoon and Vierne’s Carillon de Westminster. manual console. Edmond Music in- organ dedication These six works were selected to high- stalled the new organ at Saint John’s, concert at Saint light one of the new organ’s exceptional and a pipe facade for the front of the John’s. Photo by features: the Saint John organ can church was designed and created by Seth Chernak switch among four different styles of Organ Supply Industries Inc. of Erie, Pa. SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:30 PM Page 10

10 Sooner Catholic ● May 27, 2007 Mount Saint Mary Senior Class of 2007

Taylor Ashworth Kevin Bohn Aaron Alfonso Mary Anthony Salutatorian Freddy Baeza Valedictorian Jacquelyn Boyd David Brown OU New York University Newman University OCCC University of Tulsa OU University of Tulsa Scholarship Full Scholarship Full Scholarship Scholarship Full Scholarship

Sarah Buse Katie Calder Casey Clendenin Garrett Davis Rebecca DeClark Alex Denny Alice Dinger Benedictine College University of OCCC Work Northwestern OSU OU UCO Scholarship Southern Mississippi Scholarship Full Scholarship

Emily Evans Matthew Fairchild Joshua Faw Andrea Fluke Melissa Fontenot Ayana Furuta Marcelo Garcia Rose State College Air National Guard Work Newman University Rose State College American University OSUOKC Full Scholarship Scholarship

Kristen Greenley Steven Grissom David Hapgood Randel Harris Jennifer Hart Josh Hartley Jacob Hernandez OU OU Metro Tech Aviation NOC/Stillwater Rose State College UCO OSU/OKC Scholarship Campus Scholarship Scholarship

PJ Kennedye Taylor Kretchmar Paul Hernandez Corbin Hosler Michael Jaronek Ryan Kilway Nick LaLinde Valedictorian Rose State College OU Scholarship OCU Full Scholarship UCO OCU Full Scholarship OU Full Scholarship Full Scholarship Work SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:31 PM Page 11

May 27, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 11 Mount Saint Mary Senior Class of 2007

Sebastian Lang Dustin Liberton Martin Lopez Brenda Luttrell Taylor Martinez Stephanie Mayhew Sara McDaniel OSU OSU UCO Saint Louis University Work UCO Scholarship Scholarship

Skye Mellow Samantha Mohr Karra Nelson Janet Pando Anthony Patris Jewelle Pena Anna Perez Christian Brothers OU UCO UCO U.S. Marine Corps OU OU University Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Full Scholarship

Kathryn Pickens Christine Pham Theresa Pham Valedictorian Jonathon Ramirez Jared Rose Nick Rosser Marie Rossow UCO OSU University of Tulsa Work Northern Oklahoma OSU OU Scholarship Scholarship Full Scholarship College/Stillwater Full Scholarship Full Scholarship

Lucas Schoonover Caitlin Schudalla Kathleen Scott Cece Sever Krysten Smalley Nia Stephenson Rebecca Tagoe OSU OU OSU OU Fashion Institute of Design UCO OSU Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship & Merchandising College Scholarship Scholarship Once a Rocket Always

Dace Taylor Kennedy Tolman Adriana Williams Leann Williams Daniel Winters Jin-ho You a Rocket UCO Full Scholarship OCCC UCO Scholarship Business/Trade School OCCC South Korean University SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:31 PM Page 12

12 Sooner Catholic ● May 27, 2007 Onward Rockets!

Clockwise from top: The senior class of Mount Saint Mary High School class of 2007. Valedictorians Kevin Bohn, PJ Kennedye and Kathryn Pickens each addressed the class at graduation. After graduation the senior class took the opportunity to stand together and sing the school’s alma mater song. Julian “Nick” LaLinde being robed by Anthony Patris. A school tradition, 2007 senior class president Marie Rossow hands off the school flag to 2008 senior class president Liz Armstrong. Nick Rosser being hugged by his mom, Glenda Williams after she robed him at the senior farewell assembly. Photos Sooner Catholic/Cara Koenig SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:32 PM Page 13

May 27, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 13 Good Luck, Irish!

Above: Brad Southerland and Matt Weigl. Below: Brad Johnson and Kristin Van Horn being robed at the senior farewell assembly. Photos Sooner Catholic/Cara Koenig

Michelle Hotte, Jill McConnell and Kelly Archer got hung up at the all night after party on the Velcro wall. Photo by Betsy Felton

7 in ’07 The McGuinness class of 2007 won seven state championships in 2007. Girls Cross Basketball Country Boys Track Football Girls Tennis Boys Girls Golf In addition, academic state champion- ships were awarded to: An Truong received the Brian Smith Award for overcoming obstacles and Boys Tennis Boys Track having perseverance. When she first came to McGuinness, she could not speak English.

Coach Tom Ward, Class of ’65, received the 2007 McGuinness Distinguished Alumni Award. Valedictorian Elena Hight receives Salutatorian Andrew Shaffer Tom, the oldest of 15 siblings, all graduates of McGuinness, and his wife and four her medal from Principal David receives his medal from Principal children are also McGuinness graduates. Tom returned to McGuinness as a teacher Morton. Photo by Betsy Felton David Morton. Photo by and coach for 25 years. Pictured are Janet Burke, Tom Ward, Brian Ward and Kevin Ward. Betsy Felton Photo by Betsy Felton SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:32 PM Page 14

14 Sooner Catholic ● May 27, 2007 Bishop McGuinness Class of 2007

Peter Alig Maria Araujo Jacob Archer Kelly Archer Ryan Bahm Kurt Baldwin Taylor Barry Sarah Beard OSU U of St. Thomas - TCU OSU St. Gregory's OSU TCU OSU Scholarship Houston Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship

Paul Böer Ryan Brasses Lauren Brown Megan Calvin Jessica Camp Brooke Carroll Catherine Chastain Rebecca Cox OU UCO OU OCU St. Mary's College of University of OU OU Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Notre Dame Scholarship Arkansas Scholarship

Matthew Culkin Rose Marie Curiel Jack Daneshmand Allison Deaton Benjamin Douglas Johnny Dowds Rory Faherty Fiamma Felitch College of Wooster OU UCO Wichita State OU OU OU Undecided Scholarship Scholarship University Scholarship

Martin Ferguson Laura Fowler Alexander Fuller Mark Fuller Nathan Gardocki Hunter Geatz Daniel Gillman Robert Glendening OU OSU OSU OSU OCU OCU University of Dallas UCO Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship

Elena Hight Jessica Graham Matthew Graves Forrest Harper Kyle Haworth Carrie Heitert Robert Herritt Rachel Herzig Valedictorian OSU OU OSU OSU OSU OU OSU Georgetown Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship

Paloma Hinahon Karalee Hirst Christopher Hoch Jason Hogsett Robert Holmboe Hansen Hoss Michelle Hotte Emma Hovde OU OU Scholarship OU Scholarship OSU OU Scholarship OU OSU OSU SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:32 PM Page 15

May 27, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 15 Bishop McGuinness Class of 2007

John Hudacko Kaitlyn Hull Claudia Jaramillo Bradley Johnson Marianna Johnson Brianna Joyce Caroline Joyce Brian Kelley OSU Austin College OU Undecided Columbia University Univeristy of OU OU Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Dallas

Thomas Kierl Bruce Klein Karoline Knapp Chelsea Knox Joseph Krenger Ryan Kubat Lauren Kubier Carter Labarthe Creighton OU Undecided OU Undecided OSU UCO Northwestern Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship

Abigail Lamberti Justin Le Jared Lester John Lewis Daniel Leyva David Linden Kathryn Lively Rebecca Lofton University of Tulsa OSU Purdue Conception Seminary UCO OSU Whitman College OU Scholarship College Scholarship Scholarship

Lindsay Lucas Anna Mackey Stephen Maidt Ryan Martin Brenton Massey Brian Maudie Jill McConnell Michael McCoy University of OU OSU NOC/OSU OSU University of OU OU Arkansas Scholarship Scholarship Missouri Scholarship

Christopher Michael McLain Sarah Medley Zachary Mesarick Scott Mitchell Ricardo Montoya Mason Morrow Kyle Murphy McGarry Colorado School of University of OU OCU OSU OU OSU Undecided Mines Scholarship Arkansas Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship

Steven Perry Keenan Murray Susan Murray Kathleen Neeley Benjamin Nichols Jeremy Onderek Colin Osborne Evan Ottaviani Notre Dame OSU Scholarship OSU Scholarship OSU UCO OSU OU Scholarship U of Tulsa Scholarship Scholarship SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:33 PM Page 16

16 Sooner Catholic ● May 27, 2007 Bishop McGuinness Class of 2007

Paige Pribble Benjamin Reavis Sloan Remer Nicholas Richardson William Richardson John Riesenberg Joseph Rigazzi Bradley Roberts Fort Lewis College OU UCO OU DePaul University OCU Belmont UCO Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship University

Andrew Shaffer Jonathan Roman Taylor Ronck John Roy Meredith Salvia Jacob Schneider Jeffrey Semtner Sangwon Seo Salutatorian OCU OU OSU OU OSU OU Indiana Notre Dame Scholarship Scholarship University Scholarship

Allison Shaw Ansley Shewmaker John Shields Jared Smith Michael Sosanya Bradley Southerland Matthew Spidell Matthew Starr OU FOA Lewis College OU OU OSU UCO UCO St. Louis University Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship

Natalie Szczepan Gardner Taylor Sean Thomasson Daniel Thompson Kristen Threet John Toal Benjamin Trosper An Truong UCO OSU UCO OSU OSU OU OSU UCO Scholarship

Kristin Van Horn Alejandro Vasquez Caitlin Vaughan Clay Vaughan Tyler Vaughan Sabrina Wallace Natasha Watts Elizabeth Weber OU OU OU OU OU OU USC UCO Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship Scholarship

Jeffrey Weber Matthew Weigl Emily Westerman Andrew Wilson Zachary Wilson Kaycee Winkler Chase Wise Jessica Wood OCCC OCCC OU Scholarship OSU Scholarship UCO OSU UCO OU Scholarship SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:33 PM Page 17

May 27, 2007 Sooner Catholic 17 Tractor Signifies Memories, Dreams By Candace Krebs work. But we just did what we had to For the Sooner Catholic do.” In late April, Becky Schnaithman, A tractor made the event especially along with family and friends, watched meaningful for the three women. As an her son, Travis give his retiring address introduction to his going-away speech, as outgoing president of the Oklahoma Travis rode up to the arena stage on a FFA amid a laser show, choir concert refurbished 1950 “G” series John Deere and lengthy awards ceremony with tractor that their dad once owned and tens of thousands filling the Cox farmed with. Convention Center in downtown All three sisters were emotional Oklahoma City. and enthusiastic about what the She shared the momentous tractor represented. “It was my dad’s evening with her two sisters, including very first tractor and it was the pride Travis Schnaithman rode into the Cox Convention Center on a restored John Deere one who had flown in from California and joy of everything he had on the tractor to give his retiring address as FFA state president. From right, Becky especially for the convention. farm,” Becky Schnaithman said. “It’s part of our heritage. My dad would be Schnaithman and her son, Travis, atop the tractor with Becky’s two sisters, Brenda Schnaithman and her sister, Sidwell of Goltry and Pam Meyers, who lives in California. Brenda Sidwell, a crop insurance agent so thrilled to know his grandson has it.” from Goltry, both attend Saint Gregory Earlier in the year Travis had When the moment came, no one The northwest Oklahoma community The Great Parish in Enid. Sidwell mentioned wanting to use a tractor as was more emotional than the tractor’s was founded during the land run that raised two children who were also very a prop when he gave his farewell previous owner, Kenneth Rexroat of opened the former Indian Territory to active in the Oklahoma FFA. Son, address. His grandfather’s old tractor Enid, who joined the Schnaithman settlement. Brady is now based in Hong Kong and — long retired from farm work and family for Travis’ final presiding He is also committed to continuing works for RaboBank. A daughter, lovingly restored as a collector’s item — session as leader of the state FFA. in production agriculture. The title he Bambi, works for Genworth Financial was not even in the picture; it had been Rexroat said there was “no telling” how chose for his farewell address was “The in Orange County, Calif., where she has sold in a farm sale back in 1992. “We many trophies and plaques he had Power of the Dream.” He talked about been named the company’s rookie of bid on it but we didn’t end up with it,” won all over Oklahoma at parades and not giving up on his own passion for the year. Becky Schnaithman explained. tractor pulls with the machine. farming. “It’s a hard deal,” Rexroat said Their other sis, Pam Meyers, has “We all wanted to keep it but didn’t “I’m just so attached to the tractors. of the farming life after hearing the lived in Yorba Linda, Calif., for two see a need for it at the time,” Sidwell They’ve been like babies to me, I guess,” talk. “Input costs keep going up. But decades. She also has a son, who is now added. “As you grow older, though, he said as he rubbed his damp eyes. he’s got good thoughts. I don’t think I’ve 24 and works for Merrill Lynch. Even those memories really reanimate your “I’ve always restored and played with ever heard a boy give a better talk.” though growing up in California he was life.” them. I had up to five of them at one “He loves it. It’s in his heart,” Becky never involved in FFA and 4-H, Meyers Out of the blue on Feb. 14 — their time. Now I’m down to the last ones. Schnaithman said of her son’s devotion says she is thankful every day for the dad’s birthday, no less — the man who Both of these last two went to good to farming and raising sheep and cattle Oklahoma farm background she took now owned the tractor called and said homes.” at their farm near Garber. She and her with her to the West Coast. due to health reasons he needed to sell Rexroat, who is in his 70s, says husband, Lee also have two younger “I’m just so thankful for the strong it. He could have sold it for thousands interest in antique tractors seems to be children who are active in FFA, Carly work ethic I gained,” she said. “It’s more to a serious collector, but he gave waning, with several clubs he once and Tyler. They took the stage to intro- made me very successful in my career. the sisters the first shot at buying it. belonged to disbanding. “I really don’t duce Travis before his retiring address. Especially in California, I feel grounded “That was really an inspiration for know what’s causing it,” he said. “It’s Last summer, Travis added to and responsible — whatever it takes to us girls that we could have something just not as big a deal as it used to be.” his skills by spending a week at get the job done.” back like that,” Sidwell said. “The other But Travis Schnaithman, who is a auctioneering school. During his FFA The three sisters are all graduates man who wanted it called him a dozen junior at Oklahoma State University, speech, he conducted a mock bidding of Oklahoma State University. They times after that to see if we still plans to carry on the tradition as well session to establish the price of a were active in 4-H back before girls wanted that tractor.” as the rural way of life. He intends to dream. Then he made his point by were allowed to participate in FFA. “We They wanted to pass the tractor on take the tractor to various events telling the crowd that his dream — to were very active in the farming,” to Travis, and he knew it would be including the 100th anniversary cele- continue in farming — was not for sale Meyers recalled. “It was a lot of hard perfect to use during his FFA speech. bration of the city of Helena in October. at any price. Across Oklahoma Saint James to Host VBS winning columnist, Shea was raised more or less an balls, lunch and a raffle ticket. Teams will consist of OKLAHOMA CITY — Saint James Parish is agnostic pagan before becoming a non-denomina- four members. Deadline for entry is June 8. Tee and holding vacation Bible school for children in grades tional Evangelical in 1979. In 1987 he converted to green sponsorships are also available. All proceeds Pre-K through fourth grade. The school runs from Catholicism. The conference is sponsored by the will be used to support the construction of our 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. June 25-29. Cost is $15 per Archdiocesan Office of Family Life and Saint new church. Call Bryan at 376-6344 or go to child, includes a T-shirt. To register, call Christina Monica Catholic Church. Contact Jeff Finnell at www.mustangcatholic.com for registration. Mendoza at 636-6840. Deadline is June 11. (405) 255-4343 or e-mail [email protected] com for more information. Picnic at Saint Eugene’s Shea to Speak at Conference OKLAHOMA CITY — Saint Eugene Church OKLAHOMA CITY — Mark Shea, popular Golf Tourney Set will host a parish picnic from 6 to 9 p.m. June 2. Catholic writer and speaker, will address the MUSTANG — On June 16, the first ever Holy Come to the “Rich in Diversity Yet One in Faith” Oklahoma Catholic Family Conference on June 23. Spirit Golf Tournament will be held. Shotgun start parish picnic. The picnic will feature a chili cook-off The conference, to be held at Bishop McGuinness at 8 a.m. The four-person scramble will be played at and homemade ice cream creations contest. Catholic High School, will run from 10 a.m. to 3 the Westbury Country Club in Yukon. Entry fee is Games for all ages: bingo, dunk tank, D.J. and face p.m. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. An award $65 and includes 18 holes of golf, golf cart, range painting. SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:33 PM Page 18

18 Sooner Catholic ● May 27, 2007 Letter There is a Difference what the difference is between a the Holy Cross also helps me to I am often amazed, but not cross and a crucifix. remember that to be a true disciple surprised, when a non-Catholic Catholic Churches display the of Christ, one must deny himself and person makes a statement about the cross just as other Christian take up his cross. (Mt. 16:24) crucifix. Recently two men came to churches do but with one difference. The cross without the corpus is my office to repair the copier. One On our cross we bear the image just a symbol. It symbolizes that was a Catholic and one was not. One of the Crucified Christ — Jesus, Christ was indeed crucified on the of our custodians recognized the humiliated and nailed to the cross cross, but a cross with the corpus Catholic man and so the three for our sins and for our redemption. represents much more than just engaged in conversation, which led The image of Christ is called the knowing that He died for our sins. It to some comments about our Corpus, which is Latin for corporal, reminds us of our salvation through church. My ears perked up, and and corporal meaning the body. the cross, the promise of eternal life, I thought to myself, here is an Other non-Catholic Christians and to love more fully as Christ opportunity to evangelize to the have asked me why Catholics show intended for us to do. young man that was not a Catholic. the image of the dead Christ on the My heart did indeed go out to I walked over to where they were cross when He has been raised from this young man, and the many other and invited the young man to come the dead and is “living” in heaven men and women that are clueless to our services. His honest but un- with his Father. Although I am not about the Catholic faith, and why we Father James Goins, new pastor of Holy educated answer was that the an authority on Church doctrine, nor have our crucifixes, icons, statues Name Church in Chickasha, proudly reason he does not attend a Catholic do I know everything that is taught and other images of Christ in our displays his license to practice law in church is because we depict Jesus by the Church, I do know that when Oklahoma after officially taking the oath Churches and homes. I, for one, am hanging on the cross. My heart sank. I look upon the Corpus, Jesus nailed happy that my eyes can gaze upon of attorney on April 20. With him at the The custodian made the comment to the Cross, I am reminded not only swearing-in ceremony at the state Capitol the Corpus of the Cross and know that all Christian churches have a that he died for my sins, I am is Carol Manning, Oklahoma Bar that my heart is fixed upon my reminded of his suffering, and that I Association public information director. cross. I thought that this would be Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ. a good opportunity to educate this am not above Him, who created me, Manning attends Corpus Christi Catholic Vicki Gable/DRE Church in Oklahoma City. Father Goins man as to why the Catholic church to suffer in this world less than He, graduated from the University of bears Jesus on the cross, but instead who is not of this world, suffered for Holy Family Oklahoma College of Law. I chose to give a brief explanation me. The image of Christ crucified on Lawton JMJ: Do We Match Letters With the Way We Live? Last September, a local parish their papers. I had read Story of a by 9 in the evening. No more stacks of school was in a tight spot. Their Soul. Although a new convert, I knew essays. No more cheating students. I seventh- and eighth-grade language that Saint Therese had written JMJ Catholic wanted my life back. arts teacher had a broken foot and an on every page of her diary as a by Grace JMJ. injured back. “Would you consider physical reminder that she dedicated With only a handful of weeks left subbing for about four, maybe five every page of her life to the Holy By Denise in the school year, I paused for weeks,” the principal asked. I agreed Family. Bossert reflection — and I reflected on my to help out temporarily, but when I thought it was awesome that my life’s page. JMJ was clearly scrawled health issues prohibited the teacher students were doing this small thing across the top of my life, but I was not from returning, the principal said the for God, too. Dedicate every little offender du jour. I suspected they all living out my promise to the Holy position was mine if I wanted it. thing to Jesus, Mary and Joseph. Yes, could benefit from a moment of self- Family. My life was not completely Just weeks earlier, I had decided even a page of notes on characteriza- reflection. So I occasionally brought it dedicated to God. I realized with I liked being a stay-at-home mom and tion and story maps could and should up for general reflection and made a great shame that my life was occasional freelance writer. Indeed, I be given back as an offering of love. few comments about the importance dedicated to me. of matching our words (both written was quite happy with my little life. A What I found really offensive, Give me the grace, Blessed and spoken) with our actions. contemplative by nature, I spent my though, was the occasional incident Mother, to live my life for your Son days reading and writing and well, in which a student cheated, and my What about me? As the year and not for myself. JMJ — every contemplating. I did not want to eyes always went to the JMJ at the came to a close, I realized that I had minute of every day. return to the classroom after eight top of the student’s page. The cheat- offended Our Lord more than those No kidding. No compromises. No years’ hiatus from teaching, and I ing seemed to stink like spoiled meat students who carelessly jotted JMJ at self-deception. certainly didn’t want to take on when it was done on a page dedicated the top of the page and moments later It is so like God to use children middle school students in a K-8 set- to Jesus, Mary and Joseph. What does let their eyes roam to a neighbor’s to teach us an important spiritual ting (my previous experience was in JMJ mean to them anyway? Does it paper or slipped a cheat-sheet from lesson. Strange, isn’t it? And for secondary and tertiary instruction). really make a difference in how they their desks. I had told myself that seven months, I thought I was there But by the time I realized the live their lives? Is the dedicatory this year was for them. I was here for to teach them. classroom teacher wasn’t coming heading so routine that it has become them. I loved them so much that I Editor’s Note: Denise Bossert is back, I had become attached to the a mechanical scrawl at the top of the wanted to stay with them for the year the mother of four children. She lives students. Somewhere along the way, page, along with their name, the date and save them from another transi- with her husband in New Melle, Mo., they had become my students. I cared and the class title? Shouldn’t it affect tion. In truth, I routinely went home where she is a member of too much to subject them to another how they live their lives? At the very and complained to my husband about Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic transition. So I signed a contract and least, shouldn’t it deter them from how much our lives had changed by Church. She writes a monthly finished the year at Immaculate cheating on the very page that boasts my going back into teaching. I told column for the St. Louis Review that Conception School. the Holy Family’s initials? God He could have this year, but next traces her journey from Almost immediately, I noticed Sometimes I would talk to my year — well, next year would be Protestantism to Catholicism. Her that many of the students routinely students and ask them these different. No more mornings that columns will run from time to time jotted the initials JMJ at the tops of questions. I never singled out the began at 5. No more falling into bed in the Sooner Catholic. SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:33 PM Page 19

May 27, 2007 ● Sooner Catholic 19 Daily Life Retreat Brings Daily Blessings I was privileged to be a part of the to live these teachings in my daily life May 6 closing ceremony for the Retreat while going through the exercises. In Daily Life, also known as the Counseling You may want to consider doing the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius. Corner Spiritual Exercises if you are wanting: Sixty-nine retreatants shared how By Joe Froehle, To better understand what gifts the Spiritual Exercises had affected you possess, and how you may want to LPC, ICADC their lives and had moved them spend the rest of your life using your toward a closer relationship with God. gifts in responding to God’s love for you. Tears of joy and gratitude were life and help one experience freedom, To better understand the teachings shed and laughter was frequent, peace and happiness. of Jesus and living a more Christ-like as retreatants shared how their lives Saint Ignatius of Loyola spent 20 life. had been touched the past seven years in the middle 1500s developing To have a closer, more intimate months. the Spiritual Exercises, in the form of a relationship with a loving God within Some of the sharings included: “I 30-day intense retreat. His purpose and better understand and live out now better understand how loved I was to help men to internalize the God’s will for you. am,” “I am now more in touch with the experience of dedicating their lives to To learn a way to spiritually dis- person I am becoming, ” “I have a much Jesus and to discern their desires to cern a calling in your life or to consider better understanding of how Jesus is join Saint Ignatius’s Society of Jesus. making a career or other significant working in my life.” change in your life. Today, these same Spiritual A Lawton student, Cadese Moore, 13, won Other sharings included “I now Exercises are presented in a 30-week To better know, understand, accept know more about what career change I and love the person you are becoming. first place in the “What Home Means To Retreat In Daily Life beginning in Me” poster contest sponsored by NBC may want to make,” “I feel so much The retreat is offered at eight October and ending in April under the Bank and Housing and Urban closer to Jesus and want to be more guidance of the Sisters of Benedict at different locations in the Oklahoma Development. Cadese, who was selected Christ-like in my life,” “I know I must the Red Plains Monastery in Piedmont. City area. You are invited to contact for her age category, was presented a grieve, and I also know I am to live a The Retreat In Daily Life includes a Sister Benedicta Boland, O.S.B., at Red framed certificate and savings bond at a life of love,” “I feel so much closer to my commitment to one hour a day in Plains Monastery at 373-4565 or recent statewide housing conference held God,” “I am more in touch with God’s prayer, meeting weekly with six to myself at 341-2515 or 359-8539 or in Oklahoma City. Presenting the award will versus my will,” and many other eight other retreatants, and meeting [email protected] if you have is Maureen Carollo, vice president and deeply spiritual sharings. twice a month with a spiritual director. questions regarding or interest in the compliance officer of NBC Bank. The art contest was offered to all children ages The Retreat In Daily Life The Retreat In Daily Life allowed retreat. contributes significantly toward the EDITOR’S NOTE: Joe Froehle has 5-15 in HUD subsidized housing. me to slowly and intimately experience Cadese, who is living in Columbia Spiritual Experiences described above over a seven-month period how much over 16 years experience in marital, and facilitates one’s moving toward a individual and family counseling. He Square, was inspired by the recent God loves me and to discern what is my Columbia Square groundbreaking closer relationship with God in becom- serves in the Counseling Center at St. response in living my life. The seven- ceremony in Lawton sponsored by ing the person one is meant to be. month immersion in the Spiritual John the Baptist, Edmond. He can be Catholic Charities and Mercy Housing These Spiritual Exercises bring Exercises allowed me to not only better reached at (405) 359-8539 or by e-mail Inc. The apartment complex is being increased clarity and meaning to one’s understand the teachings of Jesus, but at [email protected]. rebuilt for Lawton residents. Spider-Man 3 Weaves Story on Power of Forgiveness I took my two older boys to see When the man who murdered Peter’s shows compassion and utters those “Spider-Man 3” this past weekend. uncle escapes from prison, Peter Body liberating words, “I forgive you.” Watching all that jam-packed action chooses revenge and Spidey’s alter ego The movie ends with this bit of had the same effect on them as would a emerges, overtaken by black-alien- Language wisdom: “Whatever comes our way, 2-liter bottle of Coke. After their “sugar parasitic goo. These nasty symbiotes, By Christopher whatever battle, we always have a high” subsided and they could actually Peter learns from his college professor, West choice. It’s our choices that make us speak, we had some great father-son bind to their host, and “when they bind who we are and we can always choose chats about the movie’s many moral they can be hard to unbind.” what’s right.” When others have hurt lessons. us, we can always choose forgiveness. It is very rare to see lust portrayed Spidey — and the audience — hope. In As the Catechism of the Catholic I’ve been milking the moral lessons as something evil in a Hollywood a grand image of what battling with sin Church teaches: “It is not in our power from “Spider-Man 2” for almost three movie. But here, Peter Parker’s lusty often feels like, Parker breaks free from not to feel or to forget an offense; but years now. Doc Oc, the eight-armed prance down main street is a clear his oppression with the help of the the heart that offers itself to the Holy supervillain from that installment, was indication that he is no longer “your victorious tones of the church bell. In Spirit turns injury into compassion and an image of the passions gone wild. friendly neighborhood Spider-Man.” the next scene, we see Peter washed purifies the memory in transforming When our passions are out of control, His respect for women has gone out the clean in a (baptismal) shower. humanity — as the movie memorably window. Peter only wises up when he the hurt into intercession.” (CCC 2843). From then on, Peter learns how to demonstrated — is on a train bound for sees how he has wounded his beloved forgive himself — and others. For three In its own way, this is the message destruction. Only Spider-Man, there Mary Jane. “I hurt her, Aunt May. I movies now we’ve been feeling Peter’s of Spider-Man 3: Hurt can be trans- a Christ-figure sacrificing himself in don’t know what to do.” “You start by rage toward his uncle’s murderer. formed into something positive. cruciform, can save us. doing the hardest thing,” she says. “You [Note: If you don’t want to know the Forgiveness is the only path that brings forgive yourself.” Now with the release of Spidey 3, ending of the movie, stop reading now]. true resolution to our pain. The alter- I’ve got lots of new material to draw Peter, in a fit of merciless rage, had At the end of this installment, having native is to be possessed by the black, from with my kids. It’s a multi-layered already told a fellow photographer who tried unsuccessfully to avenge his parasitic goo of bitterness and revenge. morality tale. One of the main had cheated him out of a job at the uncle’s death earlier in the movie, Peter It’s our choice. questions this movie addresses is, Daily Bugle, “You want forgiveness? faces his uncle’s killer. The killer tries Christopher West is a fellow of the “What do we do with the hurt we feel Get religion.” It was a sign of things to to excuse himself, “I had no choice,” Theology of the Body Institute in West when other people cause us pain?” come. Where does Peter go to do battle he insists. Peter calmly replies, Chester, Pa., and lectures worldwide “Revenge,” Aunt May tells Peter, “is like with that diabolic goop that had over- “We always have a choice.” Then, on the subject. His books and other a poison. Before you know it, it can turn taken him? To a church — a Catholic as the murderer confesses what information are available at you into something ugly.” And it does. church. The cross atop the spire offers happened that fateful night, Peter www.christopherwest.com. 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Principal Opening Environment Training and be at least for elementary and early childhood Cafeteria Manager Bishop John Carroll School in 18 years of age. If interested, call teachers for the 2007-08 school year. Mount St. Mary High School in Oklahoma City seeks a principal who Angela Liddiard or Mary Beth Arwood Submit resume and copy of teaching Oklahoma City is seeking a full-time will be a faith leader as well as at 751-7115 Ext. 118. certificate to Mary Jane Wittrock, P.O. cafeteria manager for the 2007-2008 academic leader. Bishop John Carroll Box 485, Okarche 73762, fax (405) school year. Applicant must be familiar is the parish school of Our Lady of Mental Retardation Specialist 263-9753 or e-mail mjwittrock@- with the DHS Commodities Perpetual Help Cathedral. The school Center of Family Love in holytrinity-ok.org. Distribution and U.S. Federal Food serves approximately 185 students of Okarche is looking for a qualified Program. For more information, pre-K through grade 8. Must be a mental retardation specialist. The “Q” Elementary Teacher Openings contact Talita DeNegri at 631-8865. practicing Catholic who has a department is looking for a case St. Mary’s School, Ponca City, knowledge and understanding of the manager to work in the ICF unit on is accepting applications for employ- Catholic faith. Applicants should have campus. Should have a college degree ment for the 2007-2008 school year. Refugee Job Developer a minimum of five years teaching or two years of experience in the field. Openings include early childhood Catholic Charities seeks to fill experience and a master’s degree in a Center of Family Love offers paid teacher, part-time pre-algebra/algebra the position of job developer in the related field of education. Applications training, competitive pay and paid teacher and part-time vocal music refugee department. Primary duties and/or further information may be time off. Contact John Isenegger at teacher. Early childhood certification will be to aid refugees/asylees toward obtained from Sister Catherine (405) 263-4658 or fax résumés to (405) or subject endorsements required. self-sufficiency via employment and Powers, Superintendent of Schools, 263-4563 or come in and fill out an Send resume and copy of teaching financial literacy. As part of those P.O. Box 32180, OKC 73123, or call application. EOE certificate to Shirley Zink at 415 S. duties, career assessment and (405) 721-4202. Seventh, Ponca City 74601 or call employer development are essential Habitation Training Specialist (580) 765-4387 for more information. and familiarity with the Oklahoma Registered Nurse Center of Family Love in City area is helpful. A bachelor’s Catholic Charities seeks a Okarche is looking for a habitation First-Grade Teacher degree or equivalent work experience registered nurse to coordinate a training specialist for its group and Villa Teresa Catholic School is in a related field, experience in public Statewide Faith Community Nurse assisted living units. Paid training, accepting applications for a first-grade relations, typing and computer literacy Resource Center. Must have a competitive pay and paid time off. teacher. Must be certified by the state in MS Office, excellent written and master’s degree in nursing, completed Contact John Isenegger at (405) 263- of Oklahoma and possess a degree in oral communication skills a must. the Parish Nurse Preparation 4658 or fax résumés to (405) 263-4563 early childhood or elementary Applicants who are bilingual in Institute and be currently licensed in or come in and fill out an application. education. Also available is an opening Vietnamese, Burmese, Swahili or a the state of Oklahoma. Should have EOE for a teacher for 3-year-olds. An refugee language preferred. Send five years management experience associate degree or CDA is required. cover letter, resume and salary history and at least seven years of nursing Part-Time Teachers Send resumes to Sister Veronica to Human Resources, 1501 N. Classen experience. This new position will St. John Nepomuk Catholic Higgins, 1216 Classen Drive, OKC Blvd, OKC 73106 or nlargent@- coordinate a new Statewide Resource School in Yukon is accepting 73103, or call for an interview, 232- catholiccharities.org. EOE Center which will advocate for applications for a part-time vocal 4286. statewide health issues; develop music teacher and a part-time middle Associate Director of Mission regional coordinators; assist in the school math teacher (qualified to teach Teacher Sought Advancement development of a statewide pre-algebra and algebra) for the 2007- Sacred Heart Catholic School Catholic Charities seeks an documentation program of data 2008 school year. Must be certified by in El Reno is accepting applications experienced nonprofit leader for collection; and offer the basic training the state of Oklahoma. Interested for a combined fifth- and sixth-grade associate director of Mission as well as continuing educational applicants may send a resume and teacher. Oklahoma elementary Advancement. This new position will opportunities. Send cover letter and copy of teaching certificate to Diane certification. Strong math skills increase those engaged in the mission resume to Human Resources, 1501 N. Floyd at 600 Garth Brooks Blvd., desired. Submit applications to Sacred of Catholic Charities, as demonstrated Classen Blvd., OKC 73106, or Yukon 73099, or call (405) 354-2509 Heart Catholic School, 210 S. Evans, through financial support in the [email protected]. for more information. El Reno, Okla. 73036, fax (405) 262- community. Successful candidate EOE. 2284, attention Shannon Statton. should possess a bachelor’s degree Part-time Reading Specialist and five years experience in fund DRE/Youth Director Sacred Heart OKC has an Pre-Kindergarten Teacher development as well as a deep St. Gregory the Great Parish opening for a part-time reading All Saints Catholic School in commitment to Catholic Charities core in Enid is seeking an energetic specialist for the 2007-2008 school Norman is seeking a full-time pre- mission and an ability to model those director of Religious Education/ year. Oklahoma teacher certification is kindergarten teacher for the 2007-08 values in relationship with colleagues, youth director for approximately 25 required. Certification or endorsement school year. Applicants must hold partners and constituents. Send cover hours a week. Enthusiasm for children in reading or special education is Oklahoma certification in early child- letter, resume and salary history to a must. Send resume to St. Gregory preferred. Send resume to Joana hood education. Mail resumes Human Resources, 1501 N. Classen Parish, 1924 W. Willow, Enid 73703. Camacho, Sacred Heart, 2700 S. attention to Leslie Schmitt, Principal, Blvd., OKC 73106 or nlargent@ Shartel, OKC 73109. at 4001 36th Avenue, N.W., Norman, catholiccharitiesok.org. EOE Full-Time Maintenance Okla. 73072, or fax to (405) 447-7227. Holy Trinity Church and Elementary Teacher Openings: Music Director School in Okarche has a full-time St. Mary’s Catholic School, High School Coaches/Teachers St. Eugene Church, Oklahoma opening for a custodian/maintenance Guthrie, is accepting applications for Mount St. Mary Catholic HS City, seeks full-time music director to person. Pay and benefits competitive. employment for the 2007-2008 school (Oklahoma City) is accepting direct traditional, contemporary and Call Holy Trinity School at (405) year. Must be certified by the state of applications for the following positions children’s choirs and supervise 263-4422 or Deacon Schwarz at (405) Oklahoma and possess a degree in for the 2007-08 school year: assistant cantors. Organ and piano skills 263-4760. early childhood or elementary football coach and girls basketball necessary. Bilingual skills preferred. education. If interested, send resume coach, math, science, French and Degree in music with experience Summer Camp Help Needed and copy of teaching certificate to Spanish. Send resume, letter of directing music in a parish setting. Saint Eugene Summer Camp is Sheila Whalen-Guthrie, 502 E. interest, copy of teaching certificate Competitive salary and benefits. Send looking for part-time help for its Warner, Guthrie, Okla. 73044 or call and references to Talita DeNegri, resume with three professional summer camp program. May 28-Aug. (405) 282-2071 for more information. Mount St. Mary HS, 2801 S. Shartel, references to Rev. Joseph Jacobi, St. 3 (Monday-Friday) from 3 p.m. to 5 Oklahoma City, Okla. 73109. Can also Eugene Church, 2400 W. Hefner Road, p.m.). Need someone who is good with Elementary Teacher Openings be faxed to (405) 631-9209. For more OKC 73120, fax (405) 751-8722, phone children, responsible and energetic. Holy Trinity Catholic School information, call 405-631-8865 or (405) 751-7115, e-mail mbrown@ Must be willing to complete Safe in Okarche is accepting applications e-mail at [email protected]. steugenes.org. SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:33 PM Page 23

Calendar Page 23 2 Safe Place Faith Community- Tuesday after 8:30 a.m. Mass from 9 MAY JUNE Domestic Violence Program a.m. to 5 p.m. The Rosary is said every Trainings. The Office of Family Life, week day at 2.30 p.m. All are welcome. along with the Attorney General’s 28 MEMORIAL DAY MASS AT 1 First Friday Adoration at St. Office Special Victims Unit and the 6 Holy Family Home Mass, 10 a.m., RESURRECTION CEMETERY Francis of Assisi in Oklahoma City. Coalition Against Domestic Violence Holy Family Home, 6821 Eddie Drive, with Archbishop Beltran at 9 a.m. After the 8:30 a.m. Mass there will be are coordinating and implementing Midwest City, (405) 523-3000. Everyone is invited to attend this the Exposition of the Blessed this new first responder program, Mass as we remember the deceased on Sacrament and Benediction at 5:30 based on the bishops document, “When this national holiday. p.m. This is open to all. St. Francis is I Call for Help,” throughout the arch- 9 The Benedictine Oblates of Red located at 1910 NW 19th, (two blocks diocese. The next training will be at Plains Monastery will meet from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. They join the 28 Annual Memorial Day Mass at east of Penn) in Oklahoma City. St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Community for Vespers, followed by a St. Patrick Cemetery at 10 a.m. All parishes and other faith potluck dinner. For more information, Located one-half mile west of Council 1 First Friday Adoration at Holy communities are invited. Registration contact Sister Eunice at 373-4565 or Road on Sorghum Mill Road. A Name of Jesus in Chickasha. fee is $10 which includes lunch and [email protected]. potluck luncheon will follow the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament materials. For more information, to celebration of the Mass. Bring a lawn from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. followed by register or schedule a training at your chair for seating you and your family, Benediction. This is open to all. Holy parish, call the Office of Family Life at 11 The Catholic Foundation Golf along with a covered dish. In case of Name of Jesus is located at 210 S. 7th 405-709-2707 or e-mail susanlepak@ Classic at Twin Hills Golf and stormy weather, mass and luncheon St. in Chickasha. yahoo.com. Country Club in Oklahoma City. To will be moved to St. Monica Church at learn more about the Catholic Schools 2001 N. Western, Edmond. 1 First Friday Sacred Heart Mass 2 Mount St. Mary 1957 50th class Endowment or participate in the golf at the Catholic Pastoral Center. reunion. Celebration begins with 5 classic, contact Tom Casso at the 30 Archdiosesan Prayer Day for Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament p.m. Mass at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Foundation of Oklahoma Inc. the Retired. Registration and at 5:30 p.m. with the Sacrament of Church in Del City, 3900 SE at (405) 721-4115 or tcasso @catharch- refreshments will begin at 9:30 a.m., Reconciliation prior to Mass at 7 p.m. Sunnylane. Then on to the Shafer dioceseokc.org. with our reflection starting at 10 a.m. Those wanting to learn more about home for fun, food and fond memories. We will attend Mass and have lunch First Friday Devotion and the practice For more information, call Mary 15-17 Healing the Child Within, with an opportunity to go to of consecrating the family and home to Rischard Piper at 946-1256. Friday, 7 p.m. to Sunday, 1 p.m. confession. Fee for the day is $7, which the Sacred Heart of Jesus will find Presenters are Jeanette Bollman and includes lunch. To register for the materials available after Mass. For Marie Ballmann, OSB. Red Plains Prayer Day for the Retired, call the more information, call the Office of 5 Eucharistic Adoration at the Monastery. Fee: $125 residential, $75 Office of Worship and Spiritual Life at Family Life at (405) 721-8944 or Diane Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual commuter. Full cost must be paid by 721-5651 Ext. 158. Grim at (405) 528-6252. Help, NW 32nd and Western, every June 10. Catholic Lawmaker

continued from page 1 issues concerning life generate so How your lawmakers voted witness in public life to her Catholic much anger and political venom. OKLAHOMA SENATE faith.” She also believes more Oklahoma SENATE BILL 139 - Voluntary and informed consent to abortion. After Sen. Jay Paul Gumm, D- doctors would speak out in favor of Williamson Durant, turned control of SB 139 pro-life measures if they weren’t YEAS: 34 Coffee Justice Riley Eason over to Sen. James Williamson, R- “terrified” of what it could do to their Aldridge Corn Lamb Schulz Johnson, C. Tulsa, it was Hamilton who stepped professional future. Anderson Crain Laster Sykes Lerblance up to carry it in the House. Hamilton “The most important thing to me Barrington Easley Laughlin Wilcoxson Morgan called Gumm and Williamson “truly Bingman Ford Leftwich Williamson McRabon is that I do what I think God wants Branan Garrison Mazzei NAYS: 14 Rice heroes for the unborn.” me to do,” she said. That might mean Brogdon Gumm Myers Adelson Sparks Hamilton said SB 139 “has a agreement with her own party on Brown Ivester Nichols Ballenger Sweeden long history.” It started as her one issue while digging her heels in Burrage Johnson Paddack Bass Wilson legislation and its original intent if she doesn’t agree on another issue. Coates Jolley Reynolds Crutchfield Wyrick was to create a umbilical cord blood “I’m called a liberal left winger OKLAHOMA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES bank in Oklahoma. Following Gov. because I want to help the SENATE BILL 139 - Public umbilical cord blood bank Henry’s veto of SB 714, lawmakers immigrants; they are human beings. Hamilton added language to SB 139 and re- I’m called a crazed right winger YEAS: 68 Hyman Murphey Walker Nations introduced it. The new language Adkins Ingmire Peters Watson Pittman because I believe in the sanctity of made victims of rape and incest Armes Inman Peterson, P. Winchester Renegar life. I’m called an idiot for other eligible for state-funded abortions. Banz Jackson Peterson, R. Worthen Rousselot reasons, but what I really am is a Opponents of SB 714 had cited Benge Jett Piatt Wright Shelton Catholic, a Christian, and not a very the omission of those two areas Billy Johnson, D. Proctor Mr. Speaker Shoemake good one at that.” Blackwell Johnson, R. Pruett Turner as reasons for not supporting the Hamilton said on many Braddock Jones Reynolds NAYS: 20 EXCUSED earlier pro-life effort. Coody Jordan Richardson BigHorse Auffet occasions she has tried to talk with Lauinger said Hamilton received Cooksey Joyner Schwartz Cannaday Brannon intense pressure to not carry the fellow lawmakers about the culture Dank Kern Sears Carey Brown bill. In the end, she said there was of life and the blessings it would Denney Key Shannon Collins Dorman no other choice. bring if our state vigorously pursued Derby Lamons Sherrer Covey Gilbert “I had prayed about the cord such a culture. She said some law- DeWitt Liebmann Shumate Cox Harrison blood bill and had consecrated it to makers will listen, but more often Duncan Luttrell Steele Hoskin Hilliard Our Lady the Blessed Virgin,” she they won’t. Ellis Martin, Sc Sullivan Kiesel McAffrey Enns Martin, St. Terrill Lindley McMullen said. “When you do that you just “I think we’re like pilots flying Faught McCullough Thompson McCarter Morrissette have to sit back and wait and see bomber jets way up high. We don’t Glenn McDaniel, R. Thomsen McDaniel, J. Roan where it leads.” see the human misery our actions Hamilton McNiel Tibbs McPeak Smithson Hamilton said it’s troubling that cause.” Hickman Miller Trebilcock Morgan Wesselhoft SC for May 27.qxd 5/25/2007 2:34 PM Page 24

Conversation 24 Bert Seabourn Exhibit Opening at the Mabee- Gerrer Museum of Art SHAWNEE — Bert Seabourn: An American Expressionist exhibit is open at the Mabee- Gerrer Museum of Art. Bert Seabourn is an internationally acclaimed painter, printmaker, sculptor, author and teacher. “My name has long been associated with being a Native American painter and/or a painter of Indians,” says Seabourn. “I think of myself as an American expressionist who some- times paints Indians and sometimes paints non- Indians and sometimes paints landscapes and sometimes paints flowers. I think of an expressionist as a painter who expresses himself with the honest use of paint ... meaning ... it drips, it smears, it splatters, it runs ... it does all these things.” Seabourn has earned more than 100 top awards at art competitions nationwide. Other honors include 1975 Master Artist title bestowed by the Five Civilized Tribes Museum in Muskogee; the Governor’s Art Award in 1981, presented by Oklahoma Gov. George Nigh; and in 1986, Seabourn’s “Windwalker,” a 23-inch-tall bronze sculpture, was unveiled at the state headquarters for Southwestern Bell in Oklahoma City. The exhibit also includes a free Community Art Day on June 16 with Kevin Connywerdy teaching featherworking. Seabourn will be giving a lecture and demonstration on June 28 at 7 p.m. “Paintings should contest our creative elements,” says Seabourn, “order versus chaos, contemplative versus emotional, raw versus refined.” Symphony of One, watercolor The Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art is located on the campus of St. Gregory’s University,1900 W.MacArthur St. in Shawnee. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and 1 to 4 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors age 65 or older, $3 for students and children ages 6 to 17 and free for children age 5 and younger. This exhibition is funded in part by the Oklahoma Arts Council and Allied Arts. For accommodations on the basis of disability or more information, call the museum at (405) 878-5300.

Blue Shaman, acrylic on canvas

Big Balls in Cow Town, acrylic on canvas The Color Red, mixed media on paper