Minnesota’s Most Rural Diocese Diocese of New Ulm Vol. 34 No. 2 October/November 2019

(Photo by Christine Clancy) “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”Hebrews 13:2 OLIVIA – On Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, at the St. Aloysius Jubilee Center in Olivia, Bishop John LeVoir was joined by parish and school staff and volunteers for “Entertaining Angels Hospitality Training,” a diocesan sponsored Discipleship Day presented by St. Paul Evangelization Institute. From transforming the environment of the parish office to using the right words when interacting with guests and parishioners, participants learned tips on how to evangelize and make the parish a welcoming environment. Pictured, Denise Hirl, one of the two keynote speakers, talks about learning to imitate Christ’s service by focusing on the gifts of joy, service, and peace. (Read more about the Discipleship Day on page 3.)

Canby School Spirit! - Luke Abrahamson, Tyson Wilson, Drake Chappuis, Damien Schrunk, and Andols Hacker of St. Peter’s School in Canby took part in the Minnesota Marathon for Nonpublic Schools held this year in 11 Catholic schools in the diocese. This annual marathon not only draws public awareness of nonpublic education but also raises funds to support Catholic schools throughout Minnesota.

Minnesota’s Most Rural Diocese Diocese of New Ulm Vol. 34 No. 2 October/November 2019 (See special marathon coverage, pages 6-7.) Raising awareness of the evils of domestic violence and human trafficking by Katie Roiger violence such as the scenarios Prairie Catholic correspondent presented by Wojtowicz; or previous sexual assault, especially Child exploitation. Domestic by a family member. Struggling to violence. Human trafficking. gain control, they are exposed to Sexual abuse. Rape. Some topics harmful influences and may end are just hard to think about, let up feeling that their own bodies alone discuss. These evils can are all they have left as collateral. grow and spread unchecked simply because no one wants to “Young teens and tweens will discuss them. often go online out of curiosity, looking for connection,” Byrne While society in general often said. “They may well respond to seems content to sweep the requests for pornographic images problems of sex slavery and of themselves, eliciting even domestic violence under the more of the desired attention. rug, the Breaking Free 2019 Pornography becomes the only Diocesan Ethics Conference, This year’s Diocese of New Ulm’s Ethics Conference put a spotlight on domestic violence and human thing they believe they have held on Saturday, Oct.12 at trafficking. Session speakers were from left, Sr. Candace Fier, ISSM; Sr. Lois Byrne, PBVM; Suzann Brown; of worth.” From responding to Schoenstatt on the Lake Retreat Sr. Teresa Wolf, OSB; and Brittany Wojtowicz. (Photo by Christine Clancy) pornographic requests, it is an Center in Sleepy Eye, Minn., easy step to agreeing to even more confronted these issues head-on. all community members to work abuse and violence to occur in business is often far more degrading sexual slavery. The conference was convened for together to end injustice and their own backyards. lucrative than selling illegal the express purpose of calling out oppression. All five speakers substances, since a prostituted “Wherever there is a vulnerable these atrocities and encouraging agreed that the first step is raising “What we know about men individual does not need to be youth, there is opportunity for the awareness that this problem does particularly who use violence “restocked.” The same person can vulnerable youth to be exploited. exist. is they often present very well, be sold multiple times a day, seven That leads to this horrific problem and so a lot of times these folks days a week. that we have,” said Brown. Once “No state, no community is are upstanding members of the a pimp has introduced the prey safe,” said Sr. Teresa Wolf, a community,” she said, adding that Although prostitution is often to the trafficked life, whether inside Benedictine Sister from Mother this makes it much more difficult busiest in large cities, the by asking for a favor or through Page 3 of God Monastery in Watertown, for the abused partner to seek help trafficking itself takes place outright rape, the psychological SD, and the director of the and may put them in more danger. outside the metropolis. Pimps aftereffects are often enough to Entertaining Angels Watertown Initiative to Prevent most commonly prey upon at-risk keep that person ensnared. Hospitality Training Sex Trafficking. “When we began Suzanne Brown, past board young girls and women. These talking about trafficking, people chair of the Minneapolis-based procurers endear themselves “They truly believe that they are Page 5 took me aside and scolded me. Breaking Free, an initiative that to their targets by befriending in this place because of something End-of-Life They said, ‘Why do you talk helps sex trafficking victims them and acting as the caring, they did,” said Brown. “Many of about this? You’re just kind of escape their past lives and receive trustworthy lover or father figure Options Act the women that we work with at embarrassing everybody because the tools they need for healing, they lack. Breaking Free will tell you that it’s not happening here.’ We had to shared the sobering truth regarding their stories started in their youth, Page 13 educate people and give examples, the ever-growing sex slavery Many factors can contribute being raped by a family member, Influx of women and say yes, it is happening here.” industry. to making a person at-risk to or running away from a domestic seeking religious orders trafficking. Sr. Lois Byrne, violence situation and within 48 to Brittany Wojtowicz, assistant “They’ve exited selling drugs PBVM, an outreach counselor for 72 hours of being homeless, they director of the Mankato-based to trafficking human beings,” the Diocese of New Ulm Catholic are picked up [by a trafficker].” Visit us online! Committee Against Domestic she said, speaking of some of Charities, identified some of Abuse (CADA), agreed that today’s biggest criminals. Brown these factors as broken families; www.dnu.org smaller communities never expect explained that the trafficking neglect; drugs; truancy; domestic (Continued on page 12)

The Prairie Catholic l Page 1 l October/November 2019 Be Not Afraid A genuine human ecology and just.” We should be rightly Furthermore, as a Church For example, if we view the Pope Benedict said in a talk to the concerned about such things. document states, “. . . the human human body without regard to its Brazilian Bishops in February of body cannot be considered as fullest meaning as God’s gift to us, 2011: “It is also important to say The last three popes have written a mere complex [collection] of the door is opened for a misguided that without clearly defending about an “ecology” in this sense. tissues, organs and functions, nor gender ideology to enter into human life, from conception until However, they have expanded can it be evaluated in the same practice. Gender ideology refers to natural death; without defending the definition of ecology to way as the body of animals; attitudes regarding the appropriate the family, based on marriage include human beings and our rather it is a constitutive part of roles, rights, and responsibilities between a man and a woman; relationship to ourselves, others, the person who manifests and of men and women in society. without truly defending those who and our environment. Thus, the expresses himself through it” A misguided gender ideology are excluded and marginalized term “human ecology.” As Pope (Congregation for the Doctrine contradicts the way in which God from society, without forgetting St. John Paul II wrote: “Not only of the Faith, Introduction to has created us as male and female in this context those that have has God given the earth to man, Instruction on Respect for Human (Gen 1:27) by cancelling out our lost everything, victims of natural who must use it with respect for Life, no. 3, 1987). sexual difference. disasters, we could never speak by Bishop John M. LeVoir the original good purpose for of an authentic defense of the which it was given to him, but Since the human body is a Again, quoting Pope Francis: environment.” Pope St. John Paul II, Pope man too is God’s gift to man. He fundamental dimension of the “Valuing one’s own body in Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis must therefore respect the natural human person, created in the its femininity or masculinity is In conclusion, as Pope Francis have all used the term “human and moral structure with which he image of God, Pope Francis necessary if I am going to be teaches in Laudato si’: “The ecology” in their teaching. has been endowed” (Centesimus writes: “Learning to accept our able to recognize myself in an acceptance of our bodies as God’s What is meant by “ecology?” Annus, no. 38). So, not only is body, to care for it, and to respect encounter with someone who gift is vital for welcoming and Ecology is the branch of biology nature to be cared for as God’s its fullest meaning is an essential is different. In this way we can accepting the entire world as that deals with the relations of gift to us, but also all men and element of any genuine human joyfully accept the specific gifts a gift from the Father and our organisms to one another and women are precious gifts to us ecology” (LS, no. 155). Why of another man or woman, the common home, whereas thinking to their physical surroundings. and are to be respected in accord is a genuine human ecology so work of God the Creator, and find that we enjoy absolute power There is much concern today with their innate dignity as beings important today? It is important mutual enrichment. It is not a over our own bodies turns, often about ecology and the way that created by God in his image because it is an antidote to a healthy attitude which would seek subtly, into thinking that we enjoy human beings should live in and likeness. We are to respect current and incorrect notion of ‘to cancel out sexual difference absolute power over creation. ourselves as well. This is rightly freedom. because it no longer knows how to Learning to accept our body, to order to preserve our physical called “human ecology.” confront it’” (LS, no. 155). care for it and to respect its fullest environment for ourselves and for This incorrect notion of freedom future generations. For example, meaning, is an essential element Pope Francis highlights an postulates that we have the right of any genuine human ecology” a recent e-mail that I received to do whatever we choose to do, How is an authentic respect for the contained an announcement for important link between ecology human body and an accompanying (no. 155). In other words, without in the biological sense and human whenever we choose to do it, a genuine human ecology, we a webinar that will outline “how without any boundaries. However, genuine human ecology fostered? we can make food choices that ecology. In Laudato si’, he writes: They are fostered when the whole will never reach an authentic “It is enough to recognize that there is a real danger that by ecology in the biological and are sustainable, less wasteful, using our freedom in this way, human person is respected, both our body itself establishes us body and soul. When an authentic environmental sense. in a direct relationship with the we will act contrary to a genuine human ecology and thereby harm human ecology is fostered, with The environment and with other a healthy respect for the human living beings” (no. 155). He goes ourselves and those around us, as well as our environment. This is body, a care for our environment Bishop LeVoir’s monthly on to write in the same section: will be much more likely to calendar can be found at ra rie “The acceptance of our bodies as especially true with respect to the human body. follow. www.dnu.org/calendar/. p catholic God’s gift is vital for welcoming and accepting the entire world The Prairie Catholic, the official as a gift from the Father and our newspaper for the Diocese of New Ulm common home. . . ” One could since May 1972, is published say that our bodies link us to all every six weeks, Sept.-June. of creation. How we accept and Publisher: Most Reverend John M. LeVoir respect our bodies will influence Editor: Christine E. Clancy how we care for the environment. Submission deadline is the 1st of each month prior to publication. The acceptance of the human body is critical. We know from Publication office: Diocesan Pastoral faith and reason that our bodies Center, 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, are created by God and not by MN 56073; phone: 507-359-2966, us. They are God’s precious gift Email: [email protected] to us and they participate in our Website: www.dnu.org dignity as persons. God calls us Postmaster: Send notice on Form 3579, to accept our bodies, in all their “The Prairie Catholic,” 1421 6th Street fundamental aspects, as he created North, New Ulm, MN 56073-2071. them and gave them to us. This Periodical postage paid at New Ulm Pope Benedict emphasized in his and additional mailing offices. talk at the Reichstag Building in USPS 926-760. Berlin in 2011. He said: “Man too has a nature that he must respect The Prairie Catholic and that he cannot manipulate at is available online will. Man is not merely self- creating freedom. Man does not at www.dnu.org create himself.”

The Prairie Catholic l Page 2 l October/November 2019 diocesan church Hospitality: first step in evangelization Former archbishop of Saint 2019 Diocesan Discipleship Day held Sept. 28 Paul and Minneapolis dies by Kevin Losleben healing to it, just as Jesus did. offered to pray for his wife, right Loudenville, N.Y., he went on to We cannot do that well, however, in that moment. attend Mount St. Mary Seminary OLIVIA – Imagine someone if we do not first recognize in Emmitsburg, Md. attending your parish for the first our own brokenness and seek “Really? You would do that?” the time. They drive into the parking Christ’s healing touch. Ultimately, man asked. “Yeah, I would really He was ordained a priest for the lot, park their car, and walk into hospitality is a fruit of striving for do that …right now,” Hirl said. Diocese of Albany, N.Y., on May the church. What do they see as personal holiness. The man broke down, explaining 28, 1960. After serving at parishes they walk up to the church, then that he was scared and did not and teaching at Central Catholic walk through the front doors, and All too often, however, parishes want to lose his wife. After a short High School in Troy, N.Y., then- take a seat in a pew? Who do they create a hospitable image, when in conversation, the man “looked Father Flynn was appointed dean encounter during this time? reality they make it quite difficult at [her] pamphlets …that have of Mount St. Mary Seminary for people to enter…sometimes all the teachings of the Church where he later served as vice rector This whole scenario might take literally. and he grabbed all of the [“Why and seminary rector. less than three minutes, but a Be Catholic?” pamphlets] and person judges a parish community Janke cited his own personal story he started walking up and down Archbishop Flynn In 1979, he returned to the within that short amount of time. about a parish that thought it was the classic car show going, “You Diocese of Albany and served as Often, Catholics or even interested being hospitable by having “All guys gotta be Catholic! This is the Retired Archbishop Harry J. Flynn the diocesan director of clergy non-Catholics leave the Church are welcome – Please come in” on greatest place ever!’” of St. Paul and Minneapolis died continuing education and as pastor because they did not feel welcome their marquee, yet all of the doors Sept. 22 in St. Paul after a battle of St. Ambrose parish in Latham, when they visited the parish. The of the church were locked! Jessie Greibel, a young adult with bone cancer. He was 86. N.Y. In 1986, Pope John Paul II easy solution to this problem is and a parish employee at appointed him coadjutor bishop simply to talk to visitors and even Keeping the bathrooms clean, Cathedral in New Ulm, attended A Mass of Christian Burial was of the Diocese of Lafayette, La., our fellow parishioners! making sure buildings are the training session. She noted celebrated on Sept. 30 at the becoming the fourth bishop of the maintained, and generally that “intentionally listening to Cathedral of St. Paul in St. Paul diocese in May, 1989. In 1994, he This is precisely why the St. looking welcoming are things another’s suffering or concerns with burial in the archdiocese’s was named coadjutor archbishop Paul Evangelization Institute that parishes do well, he said, and responding with empathy by Resurrection Cemetery. of the Archdiocese of Saint Paul created their “Entertaining “but it really comes [down to] our affirming the difficulty of their and Minneapolis and was installed Angels Hospitality Training” own holiness, our own behavior situation” can be an easy way Harry J. Flynn was born May as archbishop a year later. He session, which was the featured and how we treat people.” This to practice hospitality. Greibel 2, 1933, in Schenectady, N.Y. served as archbishop from Sept. 8, presentation at this year’s can even be the case when we even said, “Hospitality within the Having earned a Bachelor of Arts 1995, until his retirement in 2008. diocesan Discipleship Day held genuinely try to welcome people, parish can be as simple as greeting and a Master of Arts degree in on Saturday, Sept. 28 at the St. but offend them nonetheless. others with a ‘Hello, how are you English from Siena College in Aloysius Jubilee Center in Olivia. “How it’s received by the other doing today?’” person – we want to think about it Katie Braulick from St. Mary’s from those terms as well,” Janke Something as small as a smile in Sleepy Eye was in attendance. said. when someone new enters our “Hospitality is the first step parish could be the start of a Retired Saint Cloud bishop in evangelization,” she said Denis Hirl, a regional missionary conversion or a person’s journey afterwards. Many “people who for St. Paul Evangelization back to the Church. It could be the John Kinney dies at 82 have left the Church have not Institute and also a presenter for first step in accepting the Church’s Elementary School in Winona done so because they disagree the training, shared a story of a teaching on even “contentious” and Annunciation Elementary with doctrine, but because they non-Catholic man whose Catholic issues. The Rule of St. Benedict School in Minneapolis. He have been personally hurt or wife was diagnosed with stage states that “All guests who present attended DeLaSalle High School disappointed by someone or four cancer. He confronted Hirl themselves are to be welcomed as in Minneapolis before entering something in the Church.” while she was street evangelizing Christ, for He Himself will say: ‘I Nazareth Hall Seminary in St. at a classic car show and said that was a stranger and you welcomed Paul. He graduated from St. Listening to people’s stories and he turned to the local parish for me (Mt. 25:35).’” We might Paul Seminary in 1963, and was complaints can often help shed help and was told by the parish consider running our parishes ordained to the priesthood in light on why, exactly, people have secretary that she would pass on like a Benedictine monastery: 1963, at the Cathedral of Saint left the Church or even why they his information to the pastor. The dedicated to glorifying God both Paul. are interested in joining. man was upset because he felt as in worship and in welcoming the though he was being turned away. stranger. Bishop Kinney served in several Adam Janke, co-founder of St. Hirl told the man, “I don’t know positions in the Archdiocese Paul Evangelization Institute why that secretary said what she Editor’s note: Kevin Losleben is Bishop Kinney of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, and a presenter for the training said, I’m sure she meant well” and the director for Faith Formation including nine years as chancellor. session, noted: “People are Bishop John F. Kinney, who led then Hirl offered to provide meals for the Diocese of New Ulm. On Nov. 16, 1976, Pope Paul VI really not walking in downtown the Diocese of Saint Cloud from to him from the parish and even named him an auxiliary bishop Minneapolis, St. Paul going ‘I 1995 until his retirement in 2013, of the archdiocese. Archbishop wonder why Catholics worship died Sept. 27, 2019, at Quiet Oaks John Roach of Saint Paul and Mary?’” In his experience of Hospice in St. Augusta, Minn. He Join Bishop John LeVoir for Minneapolis ordained him a street evangelization, he said that was 82. bishop Jan. 25, 1977. Bishop people are “wondering where the Kinney served as auxiliary bishop next job’s coming from, why their Adoration and Prayer A Mass of Christian Burial from 1977 to 1982. child was diagnosed with cancer, was celebrated on Oct. 5 at the they’re wondering where they’re Cathedral of St. Mary in St. for Hope and Healing On June 28, 1982, Pope John Paul going to get their next meal…or if Cloud with burial in Assumption II named him bishop of Bismarck, they’re living in sin.” Cemetery in St. Cloud. December 6 at 7 pm ND. He was installed on Aug. Church of St. Mary, Sleepy Eye 23, 1982. On May 9, 1995, Pope It is important to realize, then, John F. Kinney was born on John Paul II named him the eighth that a large part of hospitality is Opportunities for healing prayer, Confession, spiritual counsel June 11, 1937, in Oelwein, bishop of Saint Cloud. to recognize the brokenness of the Call (507) 233-5310 or [email protected] Iowa. He received his primary world and the need for us to bring education at St. Thomas

The Prairie Catholic l Page 3 l October/November 2019 diocesan church No Tengas Miedo 2020 Woman of the Year Una Verdadera Ecología Humana nominations sought There are many women in the in the CCW on all levels. Years of entero como regalo del Padre y se vaya malentender que una por Obispo John M. LeVoir Diocese of New Ulm who strive active service in the Council are casa común…” La forma en que ideología de género mal orientada to become the best versions of also considered. Los tres últimos pontífices, aceptamos y respetamos nuestro entre en práctica. La ideología de themselves by sharing themselves San Juan Pablo II, Benedicto, y cuerpo influirá en la forma como género se refiere a las actitudes with not only their family, but Francisco han usado el término cuidamos el medio ambiente. con respecto a los roles, derechos A group of three individuals may “la ecología humana” en sus y responsabilidades apropiados de also with their community and submit a nominee. More than La aceptación del cuerpo humano enseñanzas. ¿Qué significa hombres y mujeres en la sociedad. parishes. one name can be submitted and es esencial. Sabemos por la fe y ‘ecología’? “la ecología” es una Una ideología de género mal names may be resubmitted if they la razón que nuestro cuerpo es rama de la biología que se ocupa orientada contradice la forma en The New Ulm Diocesan Council have not previously received the creado a imagen de Dios más no de las relaciones de los organismos que Dios nos ha creado como of Catholic Women once again award. Current Diocesan Council por nosotros. Es el regalo más y su entorno físico. Hoy en día hombre y mujer (Génesis 1:27) al seeks to recognize one of these of Catholic Women voting board preciado a nosotros y toman parte hay mucha preocupación sobre la cancelar nuestra diferencia sexual. special woman at the 2020 New members are not eligible. ecología y la forma como debemos en nuestra dignidad como personas. Ulm Diocesan Council of Catholic Dios nos llama a aceptar nuestro vivir para conservar nuestro medio Nuevamente, citando al Papa Women Convention to be held on For nomination rules or forms cuerpo, en todos sus aspectos ambiente para nosotros y para las Francisco: “también la valoración April 25 at the Church of the Holy contact your parish CCW fundamentales, ya que los creó y generaciones futuras. Por ejemplo, del propio cuerpo en su femineidad Redeemer in Marshall. nos obsequió. El Papa Benedicto president or Beth Boyle, 110 hace poco, recibí un correo o masculinidad es necesaria para Wilson Street, P.O Box 384, Tyler enfatizó en su discurso en Berlín en reconocerse a sí mismo en el electrónico sobre un anuncio de un Judging will be based on family MN 56178; jimbethboyle@gmail. el 2011, “También el hombre posee encuentro con el diferente. De seminario en línea que presentará commitment; participation in com. Nominations are due by Jan. una naturaleza que él debe respetar este modo es posible aceptar ¿cómo podemos escoger alimentos church activities, committees, and y que no puede manipular a su gozosamente el don específico 30, 2020. sostenibles – amigable con el community activities; and activity medio ambiente,” deberíamos antojo. El hombre no es solamente del otro o de la otra, obra del preocuparnos más sobre estas una libertad que él se crea por sí Dios creador, y enriquecerse cosas. solo. El hombre no se crea a si recíprocamente. Por lo tanto, no mismo.” es sana una actitud que pretenda Los últimos tres pontífices U.S. bishops priorities focus Dado que el cuerpo humano es ‘cancelar la diferencia sexual han escrito sobre la ecología. porque ya no sabe confrontarse con Sin embargo, han ampliado la una dimensión fundamental de la persona, creada a imagen de la misma’” (LS, no. 155). on prevention, protection, definición de la ecología para ¿Cómo se fomenta el respeto incluir al ser humano y nuestra Dios, el Papa Francisco escribe: “Aprender a recibir el propio por el cuerpo humano y de una and accountability relación con nosotros mismos, con verdadera ecología humana? Se los demás y con nuestro medio cuerpo, a cuidarlo y a respetar WASHINGTON – This summer, June 2019 Motu Proprio ordering sus significados, es esencial para fomenta cuando se respeta el ambiente. Así pues, el término “la cuerpo humano debidamente y the United States Conference worldwide response to the evil of ecología humana” como dice el San una verdadera ecología humana” of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) sexual abuse, the USCCB Charter (no. 155). ¿porqué hoy en día la seguir al cuidado de nuestro medio Juan Pablo II: “No solo la tierra ambiente. launched a new website for the Protection of Children and ha sido dada por Dios al hombre, verdadera ecología humana es tan “highlighting the importance Young People and its progress, importante? Es importante porque el cual debe usarla respetando El Papa Benedicto dijo en una of prevention, protection, and as well as new reforms that have la intención originaria de que es es un antídoto contra un concepto accountability in response to the been set by the U.S. bishops. actual y una noción de libertad conversación con los obispos un bien, según la cual le ha sido ongoing effort to eradicate clergy incorrecta. brasileños en febrero del 2011: dada; incluso el hombre es para sí “También es importante decir sexual abuse.” There are also numerous readily mismo un don de Dios y, por tanto, Esta noción de libertad incorrecta que sin defender la vida humana, available resources to address any debe respetar la estructura natural supone que tenemos el derecho desde la concepción hasta la This new site serves as a resource instance of clergy sexual abuse. y moral de la que ha sido dotado” de hacer lo que elijamos, sín tener muerte natural; sin defender a la detailing the steps the American (Centesimus Annus, no. 38). ningún límite. Sin embargo, existe familia, basada en un matrimonio bishops are taking to confront this Explore the website by visiting: el peligro que, al usar nuestra entre un hombre y una mujer; y, crisis. Visitors can browse through usccbprevention.org. El Papa Francisco destaca un libertad de esta manera, vayamos a por supuesto, con la excepción the layers of the Holy Father’s vínculo importante entre la actuar en contra de una verdadera de aquellos que están excluidos ecología en lo biológico y la ecología humana e incluso y marginados de la sociedad, ecología humana. En Laudato dañarnos y a los que estén a nuestro víctimas de desastres naturales, Anyone who has suffered sexual si’, escribe: “cabe reconocer que alrededor, como de nuestro medio nunca podríamos hablar de una abuse or exploitation by a cleric of nuestro propio cuerpo nos sitúa ambiente. Esto es especialmente defensa auténtica del medio the Diocese of New Ulm should en una relación directa con el cierto con respecto al cuerpo ambiente.” immediately report such misconduct ambiente y con los demás seres humano. to local law enforcement. They vivientes (no. 155). Luego dice: En conclusión, el Papa Francisco are encouraged to contact the “La aceptación del propio cuerpo Por ejemplo, si miramos el cuerpo en Laudato si’ nos enseña: “La Victim Assistance Coordinator or como don de Dios es necesaria humano sin importar su significado aceptación del propio cuerpo the Bishop’s Delegate in Matters para acoger y aceptar el mundo pleno del don de Dios a nosotros, como don de Dios es necesaria Pertaining to Sexual Misconduct, para acoger y aceptar el mundo 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, Statement of ownership, management, circulation entero como regalo del Padre y During the 2018-2019 publishing year, “The Prairie Catholic” was published every six weeks, MN 56073, phone: 507-233-5313, September – June resulting in seven issues. Location of the office of publication and general casa común, mientras una lógica de for counseling or assistance, if that is business office of the publisher, Bishop John M. LeVoir, is 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN dominio sobre el propio cuerpo se desired. 56073-2071. The editor is Christine E. Clancy, 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN 56073- transforma en una lógica a veces 2071. “The Prairie Catholic,” the publication of a non-profit organization, is authorized to mail sutil de dominio sobre la creación. at special rates, according to Section 411.3 DMM postal regulation(s). “The Prairie Catholic” Aprender a recibir el propio Toda persona que fue víctima de abuso o explotación sexual por accepts advertising only by invitation. cuerpo, a cuidarlo y a respetar sus parte de un clérigo de la Diócesis de New Ulm debe reportar dicha Average # Actual # copies mala conducta a las autoridades policiales inmediatamente. Se copies each issue single issue significados, es esencial para una Extent and nature of circulation during last 12 months publication date 9/2019 verdadera ecología humana” (no. les exhort ponerse en contacto con el Coordinador de Asistencia Net press run 22,771 22,826 155). Sin una verdadera ecología para victimas o el Delegado del Obispo en cuestiones sobre el Free or nominal rate distribution 22,671 22,594 mal comportamiento sexual, 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, Total paid circulation none none humana, nunca alcanzaríamos una Total distribution 22,671 22,594 ecología auténtica en el sentido MN 56073, teléfono: 507-233-5313, hay consejería o asistencia Office use 100 232 disponible si así lo desea. Total 22,771 22,826 biológico y en lo ambiental.

The Prairie Catholic l Page 4 l October/November 2019 education Hundreds pack hearing on ‘End-of-Life Options Act’ by Joe Ruff its provision that a person who and clergy members of its Catholic The Catholic Spirit wants a lethal prescription must Advocacy Network. have been given six months to Imam Asad Zaman expressed live. It’s impossible to know how The conference has raised several several concerns about a bill that long someone will live, opponents objections to the proposal, saying would allow health care providers argued. it would: to prescribe lethal drugs to people deemed terminally ill. Among The bill does not require a witness – Endanger the poor, the elderly, them is the need to maintain – to a death, which opens the door and vulnerable adults through lack and not undermine – the basic to abuse and coercion, and the of appropriate safeguards. moral norm of defending life, the death certificate wouldn’t list executive director of the Muslim suicide or homicide as the cause – Allow non-physicians to American Society of Minnesota of death, but the underlying prescribe death-inducing drugs. in St. Paul told a legislative illness, which would be committee Sept. 11. fraudulent, opponents argued. – Not require patients to be residents of Minnesota, which “One institutional safeguard we One person at the hearing, would fuel suicide tourism. have placed as a society across Stephanie Packer from California, religions, across cultural norms, where medical aid in dying is suicide: “It is gravely contrary to mncatholic.org, and asked people – Require all doctors who assist across national origins, is to say legal, described being told by an the just love of self. It likewise to tell their legislators to oppose people with terminal conditions every life is dignified, every life is insurance company that it would offends love of neighbor because the bill. The alliance, a coalition to advise the patient that assisted important, every life needs to be no longer cover several of her it unjustly breaks the ties of of more than 40 organizations suicide is a treatment option, defended,” he said. expensive medications for her solidarity with family, nations, and representing the medical field, distorting the role of health care pulmonary fibrosis, a result of other human societies to which people with disabilities, medical professionals as healers who seek “I am very worried as a faith diffuse scleroderma. She asked we continue to have obligations. ethicists, elder-care workers, and to “do no harm,” and undermining practitioner as to what happens what the assisted suicide drug It is contrary to love for the living faith-based organizations, also is the trust between doctor and in a society when that door gets would cost and was told her copay God.” tracking the issue, and updates patient. opened. And I’m worried about would be $1.20. can be found at its website, a second door being opened, The MCC, a member of the ethicalcaremn.org. – Coerce health care professionals which is we want to interact with The insurance company was Minnesota Alliance for Ethical and provider organizations to doctors on the basis of saving and denying coverage for care that Healthcare, placed an alert to The MCC also sent an action alert participate in the assisted suicide preserving lives, not on the basis would help her but cost thousands the hearing on its website at to thousands of laity, religious, process. of hastening or enabling death.” of dollars, but it was ready to cover less expensive drugs that Zaman was among nearly two would kill her, she said. dozen people who testified at a Catholic End-of-Life Care Decisions three-hour information hearing “I can’t even begin to tell you at the State Office Building in St. what that is and what it feels Who will speak for me when I cannot speak for myself? Paul on a bill titled the “End-of- like,” Packer said. Life Options Act.” by Christine Clancy Another person at the hearing, The Prairie Catholic More than 200 people packed one Dr. Brian Callister, traveled room and an overflow room at the from northern Nevada to argue Imagine yourself going in for hearing before the House Health against the proposal. He, too, a medical procedure and an and Human Services Policy cited experience with insurance unexpected medical complication Committee. The committee could companies. Two patients arises such as a severe reaction advance the proposal when the he worked with – one from to anesthesia that makes you Legislature convenes in February. California and one from Oregon, unable to communicate with those where doctor-assisted suicide also around you. If things were to is legal – were denied life-saving Eight states and the District progress to the point where you treatment by medical directors of of Columbia have approved are on life support, who will be insurance companies who at the medically assisted suicide. Rep. making the decisions regarding Mike Freiberg, DFL-Golden same time brought up the option of assisted suicide, Callister said. your end-of-life treatment? These Valley, is the chief sponsor of the are important questions that bill. “It’s not legal here,” Callister many of us tend to avoid thinking said he told them. “Well, it’s legal about. However, by the time we “These are not people who are followed. The Minnesota This is a brief ethical primer want to die,” Freiberg told the here,” came the replies. find ourselves in this unforeseen situation, it is too late to come up Catholic Conference (MCC) has on medical decisions regarding committee. “These are people prepared the document, “Health life-sustaining treatments who are dying.” Callister said he brought up the with answers and communicate experience among his colleagues, our wishes with those close to us. Care Directives: A Catholic in the Catholic tradition. It But advocates for the disabled, who were alarmingly resigned Perspective.” This document is a is a supplement to “Health people who have experienced and unsurprised. Doctors are Making sound moral decisions guide that answers basic questions Care Directives: A Catholic consequences of similar beginning to feel defeated, he told in the face of serious illness is about law, Church teaching, and Perspective.” legislation in other states, and the committee. difficult, especially if you are in completing a healthcare directive. leaders of faith communities the midst of suffering. It is most Included with the booklet is a Both the Catholic Health including the Minnesota Catholic “We’re going to move toward likely that it is even more difficult Minnesota Catholic healthcare Care Directive and the End- Conference, the public policy arm the cheapest treatment,” he said. for your family and friends who directive that not only meets of-Life Care Decisions Guide of the state’s bishops, testified “And the cheapest treatment will want to act in your best interests the State of Minnesota’s legal are available for download at or offered written testimony in be medicine that will kill you.” and cannot clearly see what that requirements, but also reflects https://www.mncatholic.org/ opposition to the proposal. Many may be. Catholic teaching. advocacyarea/catholic-end-of-life- were also present at the hearing. One opponent to the legislation care-decisions/ or by calling the quoted the Catechism of the An advanced healthcare directive Additionally, MCC has prepared a Minnesota Catholic Conference, Concerns about the bill include Catholic Church’s teaching on helps to make sure your wishes guide to end-of-life care decisions. (651) 227-8777.

The Prairie Catholic l Page 5 l October/November 2019 education Marathon raises statewide awareness of the importance of nonpublic CANBY education in Minnesota Since 1974, the marathon has director of Catholic Schools for Each year, Catholic schools in provided students and faculty the Diocese of New Ulm. the Diocese of New Ulm have as well as family and friends the opportunity to participate an opportunity to show their In 1975, the State Council of the in the Minnesota Marathon for school pride while generating Knights of Columbus joined the Nonpublic Education. This year, important financial support for marathon effort. Since then, the eleven schools participated. their school. Knights have provided financial support for marathon events The mission of the Minnesota across the state. Marathon for Nonpublic “The annual marathon is a Education, in cooperation fun and effective way to raise with the Minnesota Knights funds for Catholic schools Typically, students solicit of Columbus, is to raise throughout Minnesota. All donations for walk-a-thons, public awareness of nonpublic money raised through the bike-a-thons, or community education by promoting marathon goes directly to the service projects matching fundraising initiatives. school,” said Karla Cross, students with community needs.

SLEEPY EYE St. Peter School held their marathon on Sept. 27 at Lake Sylvan in Canby. Students, staff, and volunteers walked approximately 1,400 miles collectively. Race the Rex was the marathon theme implying that any student who raises $1,000 will have their chance to “Race the Rex” at an upcoming local Knights of Columbus auction. The school has already met their goal of $48,000 but will continue collecting until Nov. 17. Pictured from left are Aubrey Schmiesing, Lauren Schubert, Nolan Hentges, Maleah Schubert, Hayden Antony, paraprofessional Mrs. Lori Varcoe, Kendra Rangaard, and Alexis McKeen.

The Minnesota Marathon for Nonpublic Education has been successful in raising nearly $106,000,000 (that’s million dollars!) for nonpublic schools. In 2018, St. Mary’s School began their marathon with morning Mass on Sept. 27. Students then walked registered schools reported raising over $2.3 million! through downtown Sleepy Eye and on to Allison Park where the junior/senior high grades were The marathon raises state-wide awareness of the paired with the elementary grades to enjoy fun activities. Back at school, the Grand Knight of the local Knights of Columbus treated students to a cupcake treat during lunch. The marathon importance of nonpublic education in Minnesota. was held in conjunction with the school’s Homecoming. This year’s school goal was $60,000. Visit https://mnknights.org/marathon/. Students wrote letters to alumni and collected money to collect a total of $66,577.

WINSTED ST. PETER NEWNEW ULM ULM

Holy Trinity School held it’s annual marathon on Oct. On Sept. 27 the students at St. Anthony Elementary John Ireland School held their marathon on Oct. 6. 16. The weather was cool but the spirits of the students, School wrapped up their annual marathon fundraiser With the theme of “gratitude,” the day began with Mass. parents, faculty, and friends were high. Throughout with a “marathon of service” - thanking the community Music was led by the schools’ choir. Students and September and early October students went door- for their support. Students raised a total of $27,439 for their families and friends then biked or walked along to-door, wrote letters to family and alumni, asked for their school. Pictured are grade 4 students, teachers, designated routes. The day ended with lunch provided donations following Mass, and had garage sales. As a and parents adding new wood chips to the school by the local Knights of Columbus and John Ireland result more than $50,000 was raised for their school. playground. second grade families. A total of $12,433 was raised.

The Prairie Catholic l Page 6 l October/November 2019 education

HUTCHINSON

WABASSO

St. Anastasia School held their marathon on Oct. 4. Students asked family, friends, and businesses for donations to help the school. This year students raised $42,400. They walked 3.5 miles around the town of Hutchinson thanking their sponsors.

MINNEOTA

St. Anne’s School held their marathon on Oct. 11 despite the cold and blustery weather. Students, staff, and families walked throughout town, stopping at designated locations (healthcare center, cemetery, Veteran’s Memorial, City Park, and St. Anne’s church and school) to pray a decade of the Rosary. With pledges still coming in, so far the school has raised $26,000. As a reward for reaching their $25,000 St. Edward’s School marathon was held Oct. 9. Students walked two miles along with families and marathon goal, students enjoyed duct taping their school staff. Older students served as “guardian angels,” walking with younger students to promote parish pastor, Fr. Tony Hesse, to the gym wall. Pictured bonding and to ensure safety. While passing through downtown Minneota, students stopped to sing is part of the first grade class after taking their turn the school song. At the end of the route they participated in a game of human foosball. This year the school raised over $20,000 as a result of their marathon efforts. taping Father Hesse.

LITCHFIELD BIRD ISLAND TRACY

St. Mary’s School marathon was held on Oct. 16. St. Mary’s School held their marathon on Oct. 6. St. Philip’s School marathon was held on Oct. 4. In their Small The theme was “service.” Students K-8 completed Thirty-two out of the 42 students in grades K-6 Steps, Big Intentions marathon, students collected prayer nine jobs throughout the city of Bird Island, participated in completing a six mile trail beginning intentions as well as donations. Students and families contacted working hard picking up sticks, raking leaves, and at End-O-Line Park in Currie and circling around private donors as well as businesses with 79 percent of doing other outdoor cleaning tasks. A total of parts of Lake Shetek. Also participating were family donations from private donors and 21 percent from business $38,078 was raised. Pictured from left are third members, school staff, and St. Mary parishioners – supporters. The school goal this year was $60,000. At last count graders Lilly Bauman, Matthew Mohr, Hudson a total of 85 people supporting the school! Money they had reached $68,365. Pictured, parish pastor Fr. Brian Edwards, and Aiden Lerud. raised as a result of the marathon amounted to Mandel and the 5th grade school patrol lead the way as the $12,506. marathon began.

The Prairie Catholic l Page 7 l October/November 2019 special report

What ministries are supported? DIOCESAN Catholic Charities - Available to help those in Bishop’s Guild members a key need, regardless of their income, who are struggling Forward with with poverty and other complex issues. This ministry provides individual, marriage, and family counseling; component in the annual appeal MINISTRIES parish and community disaster response; pregnancy The Bishop’s Guild is a recognition Brian and Brenda Harguth, Fr. Paul Brunner, Tom Burich, Michael and and adoption counseling and support services; and society of individuals who give to the Timmerman* Gladys Carter, Fr. Patrick Casey*, Nole transition and grief services. Approximately 1,300 Diocesan Ministries Appeal at a level of and Nicole German, Larry and Betty clients are served annually by Catholic Charities staff. APPEAL 2019 $1,000 or greater per year. Membership St. Paul, Comfrey Gunderson, Tom and Mary Inglis, Leon Vocations - The diocese currently has ten young Faith is divided into three Circle of Faith levels: Martha Fredin, Fr. Andrew Michels* and Patricia Johnson, Shawn and Jessica men in priestly formation. Gold represents a gift of $5,000 or more; Knorr, Jeffrey and Gail Lehn, Thomas and Silver, $2,500 or more; and Bronze, St. Mary, Cottonwood Mary Jo Lyke, Tom and Linda McGraw, Youth Ministry - Provides programming for $1,000 or more. Robert and Diane Buysse, Jerry and Donna Roselyn Peterson, Richard and Bea 25% youth and young adults and support for those Sanders Prellwitz, James Waldron who work with youth and young adults in the 66 GOLD parishes and 17 Catholic schools in the Diocese. John and Sharon Illikman – St. Mary, New St. John, Darwin SS. Peter & Paul, Ivanhoe Fr. Patrick Casey*, Weston and Mary Jo Twenty percent of each Also works in collaboration with the offices of Ulm; Glen and Lana Mathiowetz – St. Archie and Connie Citterman, Robert 20% DMA dollar is a gift from you to Mary, Sleepy Eye; Douglas and Leanna Edwards, John and Kristan Haffley, Patrick Knoff, Allen and Jane Steffes Religious Education and Schools to foster youth Olsen – Holy Redeemer, Marshall; Glen and Mary Hansen, Fr. Jeffrey Horejsi*,

Catholic Charities Catholic your parish to be used for its ministry. Steven and Mary Levinski, Fr. Brian designated purpose. and Deb Schilling – St. Peter, St. Peter; St. Gregory, Lafayette

Vocations Mary Louise Wallin – St. Mary, Willmar Mandel* Track your parish’s progress at Family Life - Promotes marriage and family and Thomas and Patricia Hayes www.dnu.org/dma/ provides education on natural family planning, theology of the body, chastity education, and ethics and morality. SILVER St. James, Dawson St. Joseph, Lamberton 12% John Altenburg – Cathedral, New Fr. Keith Salisbury* Fred and Dolores Berg, Craig and Barb Catholic Schools - Provides consultation Ulm; Rick and Ruth Bot – St. Edward, Wetter guidance to pastoral and lay leadership, administration, Minneota; Father Eugene Brown – Holy St. Andrew, Fairfax 8% and teaching faculties of the 17 Catholic schools located Trinity, Winsted; Daniel and Grace Fred Kienlen, Leroy Nosbush, Bradley and Japanese Martyrs, Leavenworth 7% within the diocese. Coudron – Holy Redeemer, Marshall; Sara Nosbush, George Wendinger Fr. Andrew Michels* Youth Ministry Youth 6% Arlene Dooner – St. Mary, Bird Island; - A central diocesan resource Social Concerns Gregory and Maurine Goblirsch – St. St. Michael, Gaylord

Family Life Family St. Philip, Litchfield for social justice education and advocacy, the office Deacon Timothy and Debra Dolan*, Fr. 20% Mary, Arlington; Mark Hughes – St. John, Charles and Ann Fuller, Teresa Hankins, Social Concerns 2% is the local liaison to state and national programs Aaron Johanneck*, Mickie Moos, Douglas Catholic Schools Catholic Hispanic Ministry Appleton; Walter Kerber – Holy Trinity, Fr. Jeffrey Horejsi*, Louis and Carole of the U.S. Catholic bishops. The office addresses and Iris Parrott, Richard and LaDonna issues such as human life and dignity, poverty, global Winsted; Brian and Ronda Mathiowetz – Huber, Ashley and Tracy Huhn, Anthony Reinhart solidarty, religious liberty, immigration, criminal justice, Undesignated; Michael and Susie Miner Lorber, Fr. Brian Mandel*, Mark and – St. Peter, St. Peter; Mary Nesset – St. November 16 & 17 environment, and disaster response. St. Eloi, Ghent Jennifer Smith, David and Jeanette Unveiling of the DMA promotional video Mary, Willmar; Petri and Janice Papinaho Stottrup Hispanic Ministry - Assists parishes by Lyle Decock, Dennis and Rita Engels, Fr. in parishes throughout the diocese. – Holy Redeemer, Renville; Doris Petracek Keith Salisbury*, Dale and Lila Schmidt, fostering effective ministry to Hispanic Catholics Our Lady of Victory, Lucan – St. Mary, Seaforth; Timothy and Lora Ronald Sussner, Linda Tupa, Jerry and including: migrant ministry, resident Hispanic ministry, Rahe – Cathedral, New Ulm; Thomas and Mary Ann Kramer, Robert and Julie November 23 & 24 leadership training and support for professional and Carolyn Van Keulen DMA Commitment Weekend Jan Rauenhorst – Undesignated; Steve and Plaetz, Dennis and Jane Plaetz, Al and volunteer ministers. Juli Sanders – Holy Redeemer, Marshall; Kathy Plaetz, Delbert and Phyllis Skoblik, St. Willibrord, Gibbon Ray and Alice Thull, Fr. Anthony Hesse*, Father George Schmit – St. Mary, Bird Jerome and Mary Petersen Island; Nancy St. Sauver – St. Andrew, Ed Walter* Prayerfully consider giving to this year’s ministries appeal Granite Falls; Ellwood and Beth Zabel – St. Pius X, Glencoe St. Mary, New Ulm Lanette Dammann, Ronald and Debra St. Michael, Madison WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO GIVE TO THE DMA EVEN THOUGH I ALREADY GIVE TO MY PARISH? Donnay, Shawn and Anna Enright, Bruce Paul Holzemer, Roger Larson, Greg and The Diocese of New Ulm takes responsibility for certain specialized ministries and services that no one single BRONZE and Denise Johnson, Jeff and Denise Kristine Monson parish or area faith community can provide. By coordinating efforts and pooling resources, the diocese is able to St. Mary, Arlington Lueders, Barry and Susan Mielke serve, and enable parishes and parishioners to serve, thousands of children, adults, and families throughout the Dave and Dee Czech, Deacon Timothy Our Lady, Manannah Fr. Jeffrey Horejsi*, Roxann Knisley, Fr. 15 counties of the Diocese of New Ulm. and Debra Dolan*, Duane and Patricia Holy Rosary, Graceville Ways to Make a Gift LeRoy Doll, Roger and Betty Frisch, Brian Mandel*, Mark Shepersky, Michael HowPLEDGE toGIFT: support Pledges may the be paid DMA in monthly installments from December through September. Geib, Daniel and Nancy Hislop, Fr. Aaron Terry and Audrey Rahrlien Wuertz HOW MUCH SHOULD I GIVE? Johanneck*, Michael and Mary Noack Your gift should have some sacrificial relationship to your standard of living and God’s generosity and blessings to ONE-TIME GIFT: Another option for parishioners is making a one-time gift. St. Andrew, Granite Falls Holy Redeemer, Marshall you and your family. No pledge is too small or large. St. Francis, Benson John and Carrie Chamberlain, Peter and Brett and Danielle Almich, Joann Masters, Robert Aufenthie, Magdalen Bergstrom, Periodic charges to the donor’s credit card to pay pledge commitments can Fr. Paul Timmerman* Gregory and Paula Boerboom, Greg and WILL MY DONATION BE USED ONLY FOR THE DESIGNATED PURPOSES OF THE DMA? CREDIT CARD GIFT: Kathy Hilleren, Jerome and Carol Jensen, be arranged. We accept Discover, MasterCard, VISA, and American Express. Suzanne Cattoor, Lois Henkel, Dennis and Yes, contributions to the DMA will be used only for the benefit of the ministries specified above and Timothy and Carol Mattheisen, Mitch and Katie Maurer St. Brendan, Green Isle Evelyn Louwagie, Reinhold and Connie the 20% designated for the donor’s parish. Deacon Timothy and Debra Dolan*, Fr. STOCK GIFT: Donors have the opportunity to make a gift from other assets such as stocks, Mathiowetz, Thomas and Lisa Meyer, Aaron Johanneck*, Michael and Sue Vos Deacon Kenneth and Janice Noyes, James bonds, or grain. Please contact Deacon Mike McKeown at (507) 233-5310 with questions on St. Mary, Bird Island and Wanda Ochocki, Gabe and Jill Pieper, gifting non-cash assets. Amy Hollan, Benjamin and Kelly Linder*, St. Clotilde, Green Valley Ronald Willey Thomas and Linda Sanders, Andrew Raymond and Margaret Martin and Tawny Schotzko, Mary Striegel, “This appeal is a wonderful opportunity to address the needs of our diocese. Together, let ELECTRONIC FUND TRANSFER (EFT): This is an easy method for donors to pledge a gift. Monthly Curt and Lori Timmerman, Patrick and St. Peter, Canby St. Joseph, Henderson automatic deductions from a checking or savings account can be taken in the amount of the Barbara Verly, Ed Walter*, Matthew and us move forward with a vibrant faith, focusing on the good works that lie ahead.” Fr. Keith Salisbury* Alvin and Joann Heinz donor’s pledge. MacKenzie Weller, Joe and Jane Willett

- Bishop John M. LeVoir St. Clara, Clara City St. Anastasia, Hutchinson (Guild membership Robert Brix, Tom and Sandra Gunter, James and Catherine Allen, Dolores continued on page 10.)

The Prairie Catholic l Page 8-9 l October/November 2019 special report

Bishop Guild members (Continued from page 9) St. Michael, Milroy David and Jacqueline Lynn, Leo Joseph and Hillary Henrich, Roman Our Lady of the Lakes, Spicer Lux, Bob and Jean Masters, Fr. David and Patricia Zwach and Carol Marti, Fr. Gerald Meidl, and Carol Taffe, Deacon Paul and Ron and Verdonna Dobbs, Leon Jerome Paulson*, Mary Schnell, Wallace Mertensotto, Richard and Julie Treinen Duchene, Harry and Karen Nathan and Wendy Streed, Louise St. Edward, Minneota Monica Mueller, Denise Richter, Fenstra, Roger and Jonelle Heinen, Thoma, Marty and Judy Wieland Deacon Bruce and Juanita Bot, Gerald and Lorie Reinarts, Msgr. St. Catherine, Redwood Falls Patrick and Mary Laib, Fr. Jerome Mark Buysse, Ryan Buysse, Fr. John Richter, Ronald and Barb Winifred Balkenol, Jason and Leah Paulson*, Tim and Mary Pieh, Ron Holy Trinity, Winsted Patrick Casey*, James and Mary Schoo, Steve and Tricia Schreiber, Balko, Scott and Shelly Baune, and Diane Pyka, Ron Schmitz, Raymond and Carol Bayerl, Myhre, Francis and Grace Rabaey, Edward and Katherine Green* Fr. Anthony Hesse*, Richard Robert and Tami Thein Dennis and Sue Dunne, Wayne and Fr. Keith Salisbury*, Scott and and Joanne Horejsi, Richard and Margaret Heiser, Jay and Vawn Debbie Thooft St. Mary, New Ulm Lorraine Jacoby, Douglas and St. Raphael, Springfield Krzmarzick, Robert and Irene Kutz, Terry and Janet Dempsey, Dr. Teresa Karsky, Elizabeth Lange, Glenna Boyle, Tim and Karla Joseph and Melissa Neumann, St. Joseph, Montevideo Mario and Christine DeSouza, Deacon Ryan and Erica Pope, Paul Kuisle, Helen Landkammer, Paul Craig and Shari Remer, Francis Knights of Columbus - Council Mike and Jane Domeier, Patrick and Marvel Pryor, Laura Rohlik, and Sharon Pieschel, Shirley “Jodi” and Germaine Schommer, Gerard 1551, Linda Busch, Fr. Patrick and Nicole Eckstein, Msgr. Thomas and Deborah Stotesbery, Pieschel, Deacon Barry and Karen Stifter Casey*, Paul and Julene Dezeeuw, Douglas Grams, Marie Guldan, Ed Walter* Reindl, Michael and Denise Reiner, Bill and Connie Pauling, Fr. Paul Gary and Danelle Hauser, David Fr. Philip Schotzko St. Francis, Winthrop Timmerman* and Anita Hoffmann, Thomas Holy Redeemer, Renville Kevin and Sue Lauwagie, Deacon and Sharon Holzer, Greg and Fr. Patrick Casey*, Roger and Gina St. Boniface, Stewart Roger and Pam Osborne St. Michael, Morgan Lori Howard, Thomas and Janet Hagen Fr. Patrick Casey*, Allan and Thomas and JoAnn Green, Emma Keaveny, Chuck and Carolyn Phyllis Maiers, Thomas and La Gifts without designation: Iffert, Kenneth and Virginia Keller, Mike and Kathy King, Drs. St. Leo, St. Leo Mae Maiers Tony and Brenda LeGare, Bishop Landkammer, Myron and Becky Terence and Francille Knowles, Fr. Keith Salisbury* John M. LeVoir, Mary Lou Mathiowetz, Fr. Andrew Michels*, Douglas and Paulette Kral, Mary St. Mary, Tracy Mathiowetz Michelle Schultz, Wilfred and O’Connor, Robert and Gayle St. Peter, St. Peter Alita Lenertz, Gary and Patricia Theresa Spaeth, Ed Walter*, Ranweiler, Mary Reinhart, Jeff and Peggy Borgmeier, William Peterson Patrick and Colleen Wildt George Stueber, Drs. Jay and Ellen and Marge Boys, Elizabeth Burke, Editor’s note: Donors who have Vancura, James and Jane Walsh, St. John, Morton Timothy and Sue Connor, Jeffrey St. Dionysius, Tyler an * by their name have assigned Terry and Amy Zinniel Fr. Anthony Hesse*, Ed Walter* and Sharon Crowley, Margaret Ronald and Rhonda Wiering their single gifts to several Fitzpatrick, William and Rosemary parishes with which they have St. Paul, Nicollet Sacred Heart, Murdock Johnson, Dennis and Jean Millner, St. Anne, Wabasso been or are currently affiliated. Fr. Todd Petersen*, Patrick Zins, Matthew and Jo Ellen Peters, Fr. Fr. Patrick Casey*, Fr. Anthony Richard and Paulette Collins, Mary Paul and Donna Zins, Deacon Matthews, Ronald and Ginny Wille Todd Petersen*, Brad and Luann Hesse*, Craig and Margaret Palan, Steven and Buffy Spilman Schloesser, Russ and Sue Serbus, Chuck and Joann Robasse, Alfred Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, JoAnna Toenniessen, Elizabeth and Florence Salfer, Donald and Holy Rosary, North Mankato Ziemann Catherine Schwarz, William and New Ulm Eugene and Shirley Brandt, Mary Mary Schwarz, Ed Walter* Michael and Becky Boyle, Deacon Beth Nygaard, Dr. James and St. Mary, Seaforth Richard and Gwen Christiansen, Darlene Schorn Florian and Rosemary Dittrich, Dallas and Joann Dolan, Fr. St. Mathias, Wanda Donald and Mary Ann Domeier, St. Aloysius, Olivia Anthony Hesse*, Joel and Joleen Cletus and Barbara Beranek, Irlbeck, Thomas and Connie Richard and Mary Berg, Fr. Patrick Learn More Darlene Filzen, George and Fr. Patrick Casey*, Benjamin and about the important Sharon Glotzbach, Mark and Kelly Linder* Johanneck, Andrew and Jaye Casey*, Fr. Anthony Hesse*, David Lisa Guggisberg, Patrick and Turbes, Ed Walter* and Cindy Moldan, Gerald and work of each Bernadette Herzog, Roy and Helen St. John, Ortonville Lucy Moldan, Ed Walter* ministry supported Janni, Earl and LaRae LaPlante, William and Diane Hartman, St. John, Searles Gregory Griebel, Ione Grossmann St. Anthony, Watkins by the Diocesan Fr. Richard Gross Ministries Appeal, Holy Family, Silver Lake Jeff and Sharon Crowley of St. Peter Steve and Fiammetta Householder, St. George, West Newton track your parish’s selected as 2019 DMA chaircouple Dr. Lawrence and Kathleen Mottl, Steve Biebl, Brad and Diane progress, or view the Fr. Robert Mraz, John and Kathy Franta, Rosemary Franta, James Nowak, Robert and Peni Jo Penas, and Rita Gleisner, James and new DMA video. Ronald Penas, Richard and Patricia Elizabeth Murray Rotzien, Kenneth and Kathleen Snegosky, Brian and Julie Stibal St. John, Wilno Visit: Kevin and Judy Leibfried, Susan St. Mary, Sleepy Eye Paluch, David and Barbara https://www.dnu. Rick and Becky Helget, Dr. James Popowski, Steven and Carol org/dma/ and Kathleen Joyce, Brent and Ratajczak, William and Wendy Rachel Kucera, Lucille Losleben, Sterzinger Msgr. Eugene Lozinski, Deacon Michael and Gina McKeown, Fr. St. Mary, Willmar Andrew Michels*, Ron and Melissa Daughters of Isabella, Anthony Miller, Wayne and Patti Pelzel, and Mary Amon, Edward and Mark and Anita Schwartz, Joseph Marcia Arndorfer, Helaine Bolter, 2019 DMA Chaircouple Jeff and Sharon Crowley choose to give and Judy Schwartz, John and Thomas and Kaye Dooley, Edward to the annual appeal because “it supports so many programs that Rosemary Schwartz, Arthur Sellner, and Katherine Green*, Dr. Martin wouldn’t be possible otherwise.” The Crowleys are members of the Church of St. Peter in St. Peter and will be featured in the DMA David and Kathleen Sellner, Larry and Amy Janning, Marion Larsen, promotional video to be shown in parishes Nov. 16-17. and Mary Jo Soukup, Charles and Harold and Mary Jo Larson, James Kathy Spaeth and Rose Larson, David and Judy

The Prairie Catholic l Page 10 l October/November 2019 education their grave sins individually to but don’t let that keep you from a priest at the soonest possible the great gift of God’s Mercy Ask a Canon Lawyer opportunity. so generously given and found in that little box called the This month’s question: Pastorally speaking, the “confessional,” where we regain Is individual confession of sins and absolution the only way that we confession of our sins to a priest our relationship with the Lord can receive absolution of our sins? What about ‘general absolution? at times can be an uncomfortable and a life of grace as children of thing that we would rather avoid God, the Father. And of course some hymns and readings from time, so that without fault of their facing, as all sin is unpleasant. Sacred Scripture, along with a own the penitents are deprived of remember the “Seal of the But in offering general absolution, Confessional” which protects the short homily, followed by the the sacramental grace or of holy the penitent is deprived of the opportunity for all gathered to go communion for a lengthy period penitent and binds the priest to by Fr. Mark Steffl, STL, JCL beauty and grace of this sacrament to individually confess their sins to of time. A sufficient necessity never reveal anything he has heard wherein we personally meet Jesus in this sacrament! one of a number of priests available is not, however, considered to as Divine Physician who offers us for the assembled penitents. exist when confessors cannot be t is good first to define how the his mercy. “Form 3” deprives an As a priest, I have never had I available merely because of a great individual of that very personal Sacrament of Penance is received. “Form 3” – also referred to as anyone tell me that they ever gathering of penitents, such as can encounter with the Lord, through In the Code of Canon Law, canons “general absolution” – is when a regretted receiving this sacrament occur on some major feast day or the priest, and therefore is never 960-961 address specifically priest grants sacramental absolution of mercy. pilgrimage.” to be the “ordinary” way that this the ordinary reception of this of sin to a group of penitents sacrament is received. sacrament, and on what rare assembled without each penitent Further, “It is for the diocesan Editor’s note: Fr. Mark Steffl occasions “general absolution” individually confessing his or her bishop to judge whether the serves as judicial vicar for the If you have not been to confession may be used. sins to a priest. conditions required are present.” Diocese of New Ulm and is a for a long time, or if you have canon lawyer. In the liturgical law of the Church, Church law on when general The history of general absolution only been to “general absolution,” there are three “forms” by which absolution may be offered is very is rooted in the two world wars please take the opportunity to the Sacrament of Penance (also that were fought in the 20th find out when your local priest specific and limited. In the Code of Next issue’s question – “Heresy, known as “Reconciliation” or Canon Law, canon 961 reads: Century. Frequently large groups is available and make use of the simply “Confession”) can be of individuals were in immediate sacrament individually (“Form schism, apostasy – what’s the administered. “General absolution without prior danger of death because of war 1”). And make good use of the difference, and how does one get excommunicated?” “Form 1” refers to a penitent individual confession cannot be conditions. Priests were permitted, beautiful “Penance Services” arriving at a parish church during given to a number of penitents as a rare exception, to absolve usually found during Advent and a scheduled time when a priest together unless: danger of death penitents as a group without Lent in your parishes, which offer is available in a confessional threatens, and there is no time individual confession, such as an opportunity to come together for penitents to approach for the for the priest or priests to hear in a battlefield setting. “Form 3” as sinners during those penitential Do you have a question sacrament. the confessions of the individual was never meant to be common seasons of the liturgical year, regarding canon law that you penitents; [and] there exists a grave or frequent, and always done taking the opportunity in them to would like to see answered here? “Form 2” describes penance necessity, that is, given the number only with the permission of the approach a priest individually to E-mail The Prairie Catholic at services, usually scheduled in of penitents, there are not enough diocesan bishop and with specific confess (“Form 2”). [email protected]. In the subject our area during the penitential confessors available properly to instructions given to the penitents area indicate “Ask a canon seasons of Advent and Lent. hear the individual confessions that, should they survive the Yes, it is hard to acknowledge lawyer.” Such services usually begin with within an appropriate amount of current danger, they must confess we as individuals have sinned, Founder of Project Rachel named recipient of 2020 Evangelium Vitae Medal by Christine Clancy medal named after St. John Paul situation better; on the contrary, it abortion can produce such effects The Prairie Catholic II’s 1995 encyclical Evangelium made it worse. as insomnia, depression, low self- Vitae. esteem, and substance abuse. In Since abortion was legalized “After this happened, I listened to some women this is immediate but in 1973 by the U.S. Supreme Thorn, a certified trauma counselor my friend for years talk about the more commonly they occur over Court’s decision in Roe v. Wade, and spiritual director, is well- pain of her abortion,” Thorn said. the following two to 12 years. over 61 million unborn children known for her founding of Project “She finished every conversation have been aborted in the United Rachel in 1984 while working we had by saying the same words: The negative effects of abortion States. For pro-life advocate in the Respect Life Office of the ‘I can live with the adoption – I are broadly ignored among the Vicki Thorn, not only have 61 Archdiocese of Milwaukee. can’t live with the abortion.’” public even though post-abortion million innocent lives been lost, Project Rachel’s mission is to Thorn’s approach in founding syndrome is very common. but millions of mothers, fathers, Consequently, many women provide healing to those who Vicki Thorn Project Rachel has always grandparents, and siblings have are dealing with the aftermath been one of both passion and think that their grief reactions are lost a child through this traumatic of an abortion. Since her first professionals and clergy and to compassion and emphasizes that somehow abnormal and believe and fatal procedure. It is to these training workshop in September over 600 high school students. reconciliation and forgiveness that there is nowhere to turn for hurting people that Thorn has been of 1984 for a small group of through the sacraments is critical help. offering a helping hand for over people grieving the loss of a While in the diocese, The Prairie to all healing in this process. Today, Project Rachel is a 35 years. child through abortion, Thorn’s Catholic had the opportunity to diocesan-based network of ministry has grown to become interview Thorn. When asked When speaking to adolescents and specially trained mental health On Oct. 6, 2019, the University of an official ministry of the United where her motivation came from young adults, Thorn’s message professionals, priest confessors, Notre Dame announced that Thorn States Conference of Catholic to start Project Rachel she shared on abstinence comes not from spiritual directors, medical would receive the 2020 Notre Bishops and serves as a resource that it came from an experience a guilt and shame ‘state of sin professionals, and others who Dame Evangelium Vitae Medal in for dioceses throughout the United she had in high school when one perspective,’ but rather one of provide ongoing, one-on-one, recognition of her pro-life efforts. States and in over 25 countries. of her friends had an abortion the the biological realities of an confidential post-abortion care. summer before her junior year. intimate relationship, forgiveness, The Notre Dame de Nicola Center In 2011, the Diocese of New reconciliation as well as moving Editor’s Note: The Diocese of for Ethics and Culture presents the Ulm’s Catholic Charities office Before this incident, her friend forward. New Ulm Project Rachel Chapter award annually to champions of extended an invitation to Thorn to had been pregnant with a different contact person is Sr. Lois Byrne. the pro-life movement. The winner speak in the diocese. In November child; however, she had given According to the Project Rachel Call 866-670-5163 for confidential receives a $10,000 honorarium of that year, Thorn gave five that child up for adoption. The website, www.hopeafterabortion. information and to seek support and a specially commissioned presentations to mental health abortion did not make her friend’s com) the loss of a child by following an abortion.

The Prairie Catholic l Page 11 l October/November 2019 social concerns Integral ecology as antidote to environmentalist pseudo religion presentation of CST he calls need to do instead is re-frame the its flourishing as a foundational As Pope Francis says, “everything “integral ecology.” conversation and evangelize. principle and b) the connectedness is connected.” Integral ecology, Faith in the As it turns out, the environ- and interdependence of persons then, is the mental construct, or Public Arena Integral ecology is the framework mentalists are often right; there are with one another and the natural decoder glasses, with which we we need to properly order the serious environmental crises that environment – our common home. can think through our problems by Jason Adkins religious impulse (particularly need to be addressed, including – namely, what God has revealed MCC executive director among young people) in the climate change, deforestation, Every policy issue, from abortion to us about our identity and our environmental movement, while the global competition for scarce to carbon emissions, is woven relationships, and our discernment also respecting the dignity of the natural resources, the lack of into the web of relationships or regarding his providential ordering Catholic social teaching is not human person. access to clean water, and the ecosystems in which we live. of creation. a set of policy prescriptions or an pollution of the seas. Pope Francis says in Laudato si’ attempt to tell people how to vote. Religion in the Guise of Politics that “[w]e are not faced with two We cannot fail to see the Rather, it is a mental framework The environmental debate once The question is, what principles separate crises, one environmental evangelical opportunities inherent through which we address focused primarily on the need for and worldview are brought to bear and the other social, but rather in our predicament, especially challenging social problems in oil companies and big business to on the problems? Will it be that one complex crisis which is both with young people who expect light of the Gospel. curtail their waste and pollution. which says “Save the planet – kill social and environmental.” their faith communities to be Now it has reached its logical yourself,” and “Leave no trace,” leaders on creation stewardship. Understanding and putting conclusion: radical measures that or another that integrates the well- We would all do well to consider We can and must speak into this into practice Catholic social seek to change the way people being of persons and care for our the public square something evangelical moment and inspire teaching (CST) is vital to address live their daily lives, and in common home – “Leave the right of a “political ecosystem,” others to get engaged on these the challenges of creation particular, their reproduction and trace?” acknowledging that no one issue questions – for the sake of the stewardship without falling consumption habits. stands or falls on its own. Gospel. into the environmental activism The Promise of Integral Ecology today that often mimics religious That change is based upon certain Entrepreneur Andreas Widmer, a For example, one cannot look Editors note: The Minnesota apocalypticism. predictions about the world as professor at Catholic University at abortion in isolation from Catholic Conference is the public we know it coming to an end in of America, describes CST as a questions related to family policy voice of the Catholic When people are putting a twelve years. To forestall this “mental model” for well-formed stability and economic security. Church in Minnesota collection of plants in the middle environmental catastrophe, we Catholics to bring to bear on the Immigration must be viewed of a room and confessing their need to confess our ecological problems they encounter in the through the lens of keeping To learn more about how our ecological sins to them or sins to mother earth, repent, and various societies in which they families together. Stopping human and natural environments declaring that they will have fewer make all sorts of atonements. live. assisted suicide requires that we are integrally connected, and or no children out of principle, According to some, having babies, ensure access to health care for the how you can answer the call something is going off the rails. consuming meat, and flying in Popes Francis and Benedict poor, disabled, and those in rural to care for all of creation, planes all need to go. XVI have brought more clarity areas. And we can’t fight water visit www.MNCatholic.org/ Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato to this mental model by re- pollution without connecting it OurCommonHome. si’ speaks into this moment by We can write all of this off as framing it as “integral ecology.” to the false dominion we seek to integrating the need to care for crazy and ignore it, turn up the The metaphor of an ecosystem impose on our bodies when we use both human persons and the air conditioner, and eat a big highlights a) the importance of copious amounts of contraceptive environment through a re- greasy burger. But what we really protecting life and promoting hormones.

Diocesan Ethics Conference (Continued from page 1) In order to survive this horrific abusive relationship and one Church encourages exploring the One visible proof of Christ’s love Overall, each presenter stressed lifestyle, many trafficked persons spouse, in an imposition of power, possibility of an annulment. is the healing offered through the that Catholics and all concerned will turn to drugs to numb their is isolating or trying to isolate the Sacrament of Reconciliation and community members have good emotional and physical trauma. spouse from all their contacts, According to Fier, opportunities the gift of forgiveness. reason to hope. Making a difference probably one of the things they for identifying and combatting is possible, whether by praying, “The majority of them are do allow them to do is to go to domestic abuse occur when couples “Forgiveness doesn’t mean volunteering, donating, or simply addicted to heroin or cocaine,” Church,” she said, speaking of and families receive sacramental forgetting and pretending raising awareness. said Brown. “That is another piece domestic violence cases. “We [the prepartion such as marriage that it didn’t exist,” Fier said. of power that the trafficker uses Church] may be the one place that preparation and the premarital “Forgiveness is a recognition of “All of these things [abuse over his women. He then sends the spouse has the opportunity to inventory for couples and chastity what has happened, but choosing situations] have been happening them out to get drugs for him – still reach out to. We don’t want to education and Theology of the with the grace of God to be able to for a really long time, since the that’s when they get busted and miss that opportunity.” Body for teens. At these times overcome that situation and find a beginning of time it seems,” said that’s the beginning of their felony formation takes place through way to grow in a relationship with Wojtowicz. “The conversations record. Think about what it would Fier spoke of priests, deacons and discussion of topics such as Christ.” are what make me have hope, I take to exit that life!” other clergy, and any assisting healthy communication and guess. Now that we are able to say, laypeople as similar to “first relationships and the Church’s In addition to Catholic initiatives, ‘This is not okay.’ Because in some Faced with this catalog of responders” when they recognize teaching on the dignity of every organizations such as the survivor- communities it still is; it’s just the abuse and sorrow, Sr. Candace or are told of a harmful relationship person and red flags in the couple’s taught Breaking Free, CADA, way that life is lived.” Fier, ISSM encourages action and help those involved to reach relationship may be identified. and other similar programs rather than despair. As director a healthy solution. This form welcome any requests for help The Church stands with all social of the Office of Family Life in of aid may include counseling Besides these concrete sources submitted by the abused person, justice workers to affirm that the Diocese of New Ulm, she resources, and/or temporary or even of assistance, the Church works concerned friends or family, or together we can lessen instances suggested that the Catholic Church permanent separation. hard to spread the message of abusers seeking healing from past of abuse and care for our fellow has a special role to play in Christ’s love for all his children behavioral evils. The National brothers and sisters in Christ. combatting the evils of all forms Fier stressed that the Church does and the wrongfulness of using Domestic Violence Hotline of abuse. not require a spouse to remain in violence against another person provides crisis intervention and an abusive relationship. If legal or purchasing them for personal referrals to local services: 1-800- “Often times when there is an divorce has been necessary, the pleasure. 799-7233.

The Prairie Catholic l Page 12 l October/November 2019 Catholic life CARA Study shows an uptick when it comes to religious vocations Two religious orders in diocese see an influx in women seeking religious life by Katie Sonnek locations and decided to meet it If globe-trotting is an unexpected Prairie Catholic correspondent with open arms. Their solution aspect of religious life, then a fun- was to offer what they call “Come filled, vibrant family experience Why aren’t there more vocations and See” retreats. These are might be as well. to religious life? This question has scheduled weekends during which been a concern of Catholics for the women can experience the life “I think something that young last half century, with the numbers of a Handmaid for a weekend. women are drawn to and that of young men and women entering The program’s name is based on our culture is starving for is abbeys and convents declining or verse 1:38 from John’s Gospel in community life,” Sr. Mary worse, plunging. which Jesus invites the disciples Joseph said. “We live a pretty to “come and see” where he is intentional and maybe even However, a recent study staying. intense community life and I think performed by the Center it’s part of the gift of religious for Applied Research in the Are these weekends successful? life to witness to the beauty of Apostolate (CARA) gives cause Based on the Handmaids’ five This year the Handmaids of the Heart of Jesus have welcomed five that.” Visitors are often delighted for hope. The study reports that new postulants, or candidates for new postulants. Pictured from left, Breanna Thompson of Helena, to see the Handmaids’ joie de 240 men and women entered entry into the religious life, the Mont.; Kelly Lilak of North Royalton, Ohio; Allyson Harris of vivre (joy of living) from their results look good. Sr. Mary Joseph religious life in 2018, up from 200 Northfield, Minn.; Courtney Robles of Broomfield, Colo.; and Connie competitiveness on game nights to estimated that for every seriously how often they laugh together. vocations the year before. Boesch of Fremont, Neb. (Photo submitted) discerning woman they meet with, While the faithful’s prayers for they are contacted by at least “They were so relieved to know increased vocations are surely twice as many others. and wants of my heart that have work, including making candles, that we were simply normal!” said responsible for the gradual uptick, always been there,” she said, rosaries, and leather items to sell Sr. Mary Joseph of the women increased visibility is perhaps “There’s really been a strong remembering her first experience to support themselves, and taking who joined them for recent Come another factor in play. Sr. Mary movement toward asking the of the Handmaid’s life. Harris has classes. and See retreats. Joseph, vocations director for the discernment question,” said Sr. had a deep desire for a relationship Handmaids of the Heart of Jesus, Mary Joseph. “It’s not uncommon with Jesus that lasted throughout “It’s a very joyful time,” said Sr. If one of the faithful is interested suggests that people become for me to have a conversation young adulthood and college and Aude. The sisters in Ghent have in joining religious life, Sr. interested in exploring religious with a young woman who says felt answered when she met the welcomed two new postulants Aude Renard’s advice is to put life once they know what it really something along the lines of, ‘I Handmaids. since 2018 and in 2019 have had aside time to be with Jesus, and involves. don’t think I’m called to religious a number of women who are then look into which order most life, but I’ve never taken the time “Giving myself to Him in partial considering joining the order. interests her. Most of all, she “A lot of young women have to ask the Lord what he wants and ways was never going to be encourages the discerner not to be never met a [religious] sister, or so how do I do that?’” Regardless enough,” Harris added. “I wanted Besides prayer, work, and studies, afraid that she will lose herself in they’ve never been to a convent, of whether they decide to consider to give myself completely.” the sisters’ lives have another the process. and yet they’re feeling like they a religious vocation, most aspect that might be surprising should ask the question of whether women leave the retreats feeling If a retreatant actively chooses to – travel! The Sisters of Mary “Very often people think that to or not they have a religious strengthened in their faith. pursue a religious vocation, she Morning Star is an international enter religious life is to die – to vocation,” Sr. Mary Joseph said. still has plenty of time to learn order with their motherhouse in die to oneself, to die to the world,” “It’s very difficult to discern Duluth native Allison Harris, if it really is the life for her. Sr. Spain. Originally from France, Sr. said Sr. Aude Renard. “What something that you know very one of the Handmaid’s current Aude Renard, vocations director Aude has visited Africa, India, and I would like to say is, to enter little about.” postulants, believes that the retreat for the Sisters of Mary Morning the Philippines for the sake of her religious life is to be more alive. she attended was crucial to her Star in Ghent, Minn., said that Order. Jesus says in the Gospel that he The Handmaids saw an interest decision to enter their novitiate. their order’s novitiate lasts two is the God of the living, and he in religious life at both their years. In that time the novices join “I never traveled before I entered wants us to be alive.” New Ulm and Duluth, Minn., “It just resonated with the desires in the order’s life of prayer and the sisters,” she laughed. National Vocation Awareness Week Nov. 3-9 A time for faithful to renew their prayers and support for those who are considering a religious vocation SPIRIT & TRUTH WASHINGTON – National Vocations, Pope Francis 1976 when the United States Catholic Men’s Retreat Vocation Awareness Week reminded the faithful that unlike Conference of Catholic Bishops (NVAW) is an annual week- a secular career, a vocation is (USCCB) designated the 28th December 13-15, 2019 long celebration of the Catholic a gift born from God’s own Sunday of the year for the Schoenstatt on the Lake, Sleepy Eye Church in the United States initiative: “The Lord’s call is celebration. It was later moved - Discover your role as spiritual leader dedicated to promote vocations not an intrusion of God into to Feast of the Baptism of the to ordained ministry and our freedom; it is not a ‘cage’ Lord in January. In 2014, after - Learn the fundamentals of spiritual warfare consecrated life through prayer or burden to be borne. On the extensive consultation, the - Grow in your understanding of the Mass and education, and to renew our contrary, it is the loving initiative USCCB Committee on Clergy, - Experience an outpouring of the Holy Spirit prayers and support for those whereby God encounters us and Consecrated Life and Vocations “. . . worship the Father in spirit and truth . . .” who are considering one of these invites us to be a part of a great moved the observance was particular vocations. undertaking.” moved to November to engage To register visit www.dnu.org/spirit-truth Catholic schools and colleges Sponsored by the Office of Adult Faith Formation. In his message for the 2019 Observance of Vocation more effectively in this effort. World Day of Prayer for Awareness Week began in

The Prairie Catholic l Page 13 l October/November 2019 Catholic life Understanding the importance of a Catholic funeral Mass by Fr. Mark Steffl the memorial of Christ’s death life to those who love him, and and resurrection, is the principal who, as one petition says, “have A number of weeks ago, I was celebration of the Christian eaten the Bread of Life,” the Holy speaking with another priest funeral.” Through the funeral Eucharist. in a more urban area who was rites, and most powerfully through lamenting the number of his the funeral Mass, the Church In meeting with a family to plan parishioners whose families had “commends the dead to God’s a funeral, it is sometimes the case opted out of a funeral Mass for merciful love and pleads for the that the person who has died has their deceased loved one, either forgiveness of their sins.” (Order themself made some preparations having just a “graveside service” of Christian Funerals, General for the funeral. Sometimes, some with a few prayers or, in many Introduction, nos. 5-6). notes are made and left with a cases, nothing at all. Some funeral family member or there is a pre- directors that I have visited with That dense theological paragraph arrangement with a funeral home also note this trend as a new way describes the reason the Church about readings and/or hymns. that many are dealing with death has funeral Masses, and I would “without inconvenience.” like to describe it in a three-fold Sometimes readings or hymns are way. chosen that were the same for a Sometimes, people offer reasons spouse’s funeral. (For those who such as “Mother didn’t want First, at a funeral we gather within The instructions for the funeral Secondly, the funeral Mass is are so inclined to make some of anything when she died” or “It’s the prayer that is the Mass. For Mass say that even in the sadness an opportunity to make some those choices on their own, most too much to have a big funeral” or Catholics, the sacrifice of the Mass of death, we “worship, praise, and concrete connections between parishes have lists of suggested “It just isn’t necessary.” But these has a significance to it, an efficacy thank God” for all we have, for the person called from this life, hymns and readings available to arguments ignore the spiritual and as the prayer that Jesus gave at the who God is in relation to us, and his or her life as a follower of the anyone who would like them.) emotional reasons that, over the Last Supper. St. John Vianney, a specifically to thank the Lord for Lord Jesus and an example of the centuries, the Church has offered a holy parish priest, was noted to the gift of the life of the one who Christian life, and the mission of Today, people often will speak funeral Mass to help to address. have said, “If we really understood has been called from this life. the Church as a “pilgrim people.” not of a funeral Mass but of the Mass, we would die of joy.” a “Remembrance of Life.” On the purpose of a funeral The funeral Mass is offered for The choice of readings and From the perspective of the Mass, the Church teaches that Since the earliest days in the a specific person, mentioned by hymns by a family for a funeral Church, a funeral Mass includes “Christians celebrate the funeral Church, the gathering for the Mass name in the prayers of the Mass, Mass allow for some specific remembering the life of the one rites to offer worship, praise, and (in the Acts of the Apostles “the placing the person who has died and practical connections to be who has died, but much more thanksgiving to God for the gift Breaking of the Bread”) has been into the hands of God, who is made between the person who has than this, too. And this is what the of a life, which has now been the premier prayer the Church mercy, with the prayers of the died and passages from sacred Church offers to us in the many returned to God, the author of life can offer, a re-presentation of the Church and of the individuals Scripture and the sacred hymns. very beautiful prayers that make and the hope of the just. The Mass, Sacrifice of Jesus on the Cross. gathered for the funeral Mass. These also reflect our faith in the up the funeral Mass. love and mercy of Christ who died to save us from our sins, which is Although the prayers of the Faith and football: Former Viking Matt Birk the source of all our hope in the funeral Mass can remind us of face of death. our sadness, it does not have to be overwhelming. In many of the shares about his pro-life journey The Church offers a list of parables in the Gospels, Jesus NEW ULM – Former Minnesota Vikings stand-out readings from the Old Testament reminds us that we should always be prepared, always ready for and later Baltimore Ravens Super Bowl champion (for First Readings), New Testament (for Second Readings), that time when he calls each of Matt Birk was the featured speaker at the First and the Gospels (for the Gospel us personally from this life. If we Choice Pregnancy Center’s ninth annual Hero for that is read at the funeral Mass). are ready, if we are living as the Life Banquet held Sept.17 at the New Ulm Event These readings from sacred Lord desires, as his followers and Center. Scripture help to “bring things friends, this can bring us a sense together” – the life of the person of peace and perspective on the A native of St. Paul and a father of eight, Birk is who has died, the faith the person goal and purpose of our lives. a longtime pro-life advocate who has a thoughtful professed and followed, and the position against abortion and a family story to share. role of the Church in proclaiming At the funeral Mass, the Church After the Ravens won the Super Bowl in 2012, Birk and nurturing that faith. proclaims this nicely in the Prayer of Commendation. “Merciful declined an invitation to go to the White House, Lord, turn toward us and listen citing then President Barack Obama’s support for Thirdly, the funeral Mass, in to our prayers: open the gates of Planned Parenthood as the reason. addition to offering consolation to those who are left behind, paradise to your servant, and help helps those who are at the funeral us who remain to comfort one Birk’s Catholic faith and being a father are two of another with assurances of faith the big reasons he is pro-life. He gave some helpful to renew their own desire for everlasting life with the Lord in until we all meet in Christ and are advice to his audience of approximately 500 on how his eternal kingdom. A funeral will with you and with our brother (or to talk to those who support abortion in hopes of always remind everyone gathered sister) forever. Amen.” changing their minds on the issue. that this life, no matter how long it might be in years, is always Fr. Mark Steffl serves as judicial Editor’s note: Founded in 2010, First Choice temporary, and that we cannot vicar of the Office of the Tribunal Pregnancy Services of New Ulm provides life- Pro-life advocate Matt Birk speaks to an audience for the Diocese of New Ulm and is of around 500 during the ninth annual First forget this. affirming choices and resources to women and a canon lawyer. Choice Pregnancy Services Hero for Life Banquet families before, during, and after pregnancy. The funeral reminds us to place held Sept. 17 in New Ulm. Birk spoke of his All services are free and confidential. For our hope, not in the things of this experiences of how he became involved in the further information call (507) 359-9800, https:// passing world, but in the promises pro-life movement. consideryouroptions.org/. that the Lord makes about eternal (Photo by Gage Cureton/New Ulm Journal)

The Prairie Catholic l Page 14 l October/November 2019 around the diocese Children’s Holy Field Trip Sacraments, personal prayer, and service draws hundreds to the shouldn’t stop after high school cathedral in New Ulm

(Photo submitted) NEW ULM – Catholic school elementary students and home- Fr. Matthew Wiering is pictured during a visit with students from the diocese who are attending the schooled students gathered with Bishop John M. LeVoir on Oct. University of Mary in Bismarck, ND. Pictured (front row), left: Gabrielle Heule, Redwood Falls; Emma 2 to participate in the diocesan Children’s Holy Field Trip at the Schroeder, Marshall; Ashlyn Monnet, Ghent; John Gillis, New Ulm; Fr. Wiering; Brooke Landreville, New Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. This annual event is a time for the Ulm; Julie Longworth, New Ulm and Annie Roufs, New Ulm. Back row: Mark Schommer, New Ulm; Kylie students to visit the cathedral and pray the Rosary with the bishop, Grack, St. Peter; Megan Helget, Sleepy Eye; Claudia Rabaey, Minneota; and Kira DeMaris, Sleepy Eye. requesting the intercession of Mary on behalf of families and life. (Photo by Christine Clancy) by Fr. Matthew Wiering relationship with Jesus Christ. nearly fell over! Yet, I have seen I also serve as the Catholic this over and over again. During his papacy, Pope Francis chaplain at Southwest Minnesota has spoken consistently of the State University in Marshall and Our young people are waiting to necessity of accompanying young each month I visit students from be engaged by the Church, and, Celebrating 100 years of people as they seek to grow our diocese who are attending once engaged and formed, are in their faith in Jesus Christ – South Dakota State, Mankato capable of a deep relationship with educating students encouraging, supporting, teaching, State, or the University of Jesus Christ and of generosity in and challenging them. Minnesota. offering themselves in his service.

When I became the director During my visits I often assist In my meetings with young of Vocations for the Diocese with confessions and concelebrate people, the focus is always the of New Ulm in 2014, Bishop Mass as well as set up meetings same: Fostering an intimate LeVoir asked me to implement with the young students. I have friendship with Jesus through a life an accompaniment model of found that our youth are hungry rooted in the sacraments, personal vocations ministry, inspired by the for something more meaningful prayer, and service. teaching of Pope Francis. and lasting than the self-centered pleasures that the world has to During these past five years, I have The Holy Father describes “the offer. seen young adults courageously art of accompaniment” in his embrace the call to discern apostolic exhortation Evangelii A case in point. Recently, during priesthood and religious life. And Gaudium as a necessary aspect of one of my monthly college I have seen young adults receive the evangelizing process (#169- visits, I ran into a student whom the gift of a call to married love. 173). A person who is pursuing I had taught at Cathedral High In either event, it is always a great a personal relationship with School in New Ulm. I said (with joy to see the Lord working clearly God within the Church needs a little surprise at seeing him in and powerfully in their lives. The committed Christians to walk with the Newman Center), “What are response of these young people them, so that they can persevere you doing here?” He answered to God’s invitation should give us through the conversion process nonchalantly, “I’m just here for great hope and confidence in the NEW ULM – On Saturday, Sept. 21 the New Ulm Area Catholic on the way to an ever-deepening my [weekly] hour of adoration.” I future of our Catholic Church! Schools (NUACS) celebrated the 100th anniversary of Cathedral High School. Tours of the school facilities were offered to the public. The day included Mass celebrated by Bishop John M. LeVoir, Have you been married 65 years or more? displays of memorabilia, family games, a Hall of Fame induction The Prairie Catholic will be honoring couples who are members of a parish in the Diocese of New Ulm and for select NUACS stand-outs, a special dinner in the CHS gym, and will be celebrating a 65th or beyond wedding anniversary in the year 2019. Complete this form and return ending with a street dance with music by the Johnny Holm Band. it, along with a current photograph (no newspaper clippings, please), no later than Nov. 30, 2019, to Originally named the Catholic High School of New Ulm, the school The Prairie Catholic, 1421 6th Street North, New Ulm, MN 56073, or e-mail them to [email protected]. was renamed Holy Trinity High School in 1937. CHS was renamed Announcements will be featured in the January/February 2020 edition. Cathedral High when the Diocese of New Ulm was formed in 1957. Groom’s Name: ______Bride’s MAIDEN Name: ______During the celebration, NUACS student Alaina Blomberg gets her Parish and City Where You Were Married: ______Date Married: ______faced painted by Paula Schugel of New Ulm. Pictured in background Number of Years Married As of Dec. 31, 2020: ______are NUACS students Alexa Hornick and Ella Forst. (Photo by Tamara Klawitter) Current Parish: ______City: ______Phone Number or E-mail: ______

The Prairie Catholic l Page 15 l October/November 2019 “the most significant personalities November 11-13. During the The bishops are also expected of the political, cultural and assembly, the bishops will elect to hear an update on progress religious world” will be invited a new president, vice president, toward establishing a nationwide, to attend. and six committee chairs. They third-party reporting system for will also discuss and vote on abuse or misconduct by bishops. Pope Francis said that he chose seven action items. This new national reporting May 2020 to mark the fifth system would not replace anniversary of his environmental Among the items will be a systems already in place in every encyclical Laudato si’, dated vote on the Program of Priestly diocese for the reporting of abuse VATICAN CITY, (CNA) – a video message announcing the May 24, 2015, and later Formation (6th edition) for use in by priests. Pope Francis announced Sept. educational initiative. published on June 18 of that year. 12, 2019, his newest initiative the dioceses of the United States. They will also vote to approve a Live streaming of the public to form an international and “I renew my invitation to The pope called for “an short letter and five short video sessions of the Fall General interreligious alliance, which he dialogue on how we are shaping alliance … between the earth’s described as a “global village” to the future of our planet and the inhabitants and our ‘common scripts to supplement Forming Assembly will be available at educate each child and promote need to employ the talents of home’, which we are bound to Consciences for Faithful http://www.usccb.org/about/ care for the earth. all, since all change requires care for and respect. An alliance Citizenship, their teaching leadership/usccb-general- an educational process aimed that generates peace, justice and document for the faithful on assembly/usccb-general- “Never before has there been at developing a new universal hospitality among all peoples the political responsibility of assembly-live-stream.cfm such need to unite our efforts solidarity and a more welcoming of the human family, as well as Catholics. in a broad educational alliance, society,” he said. dialogue between religions.” to form mature individuals capable of overcoming division The focal point of this initiative The goal of the initiative is “to and antagonism, and to restore will be an international event raise awareness and a wave of Catholic Charities Counseling the fabric of relationships for hosted at the Vatican on May 14, responsibility for the common Serving over 15,000 people for nearly 15 years! the sake of a more fraternal 2020, on “Reinventing the Global good of humanity, starting from humanity,” Pope Francis said in Educational Alliance,” which the young and reaching all men of good will,” according to Hutchinson, Marshall, New Ulm, and Willmar the Vatican Congregation for Catholic Education spearheading Providing: Individual, Marriage, and Family the 2020 event. Counseling; Pregnancy Counseling, Adoption, Project Rachel, and Respect Life Resources; Parish and WASHINGTON – The Community Response; Transition and Grief Services. United States Conference of Referred Services include: Immigration, Financial Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Counseling, and Guardianship Resources. will gather for the 2019 Fall General Assembly in Baltimore, (866) 670-5163 | [email protected]