2 Christ is our Hope / November 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 3

ivir significa ser deseado y amado por Dios, momento tras momento”( Jubileo de la Vida Consagrada, Apéndice IA). De todas las maneras en que uno puede definir la vida humana, esta Discerning breve pero asombrosa declaración lo dice todo. Me pregunto qué clase de definición cada uno de nosotros escribiría si se nos pidiera que a vocation definiéramos“V vivir. Tengo la sospecha que muchos de nosotros empezaríamos con algo así como: “Vivir significa que yo…” Nuestras definiciones continuarían con una lista de lo queyo Do you have a petition for Bishop Sartain’s prayer list? You may send it to him at: realizaría, lograría, sentiría, pensaría, sabría, haría. Bishop Sartain’s Prayer List, Diocese of Joliet; 425 Summit St., Joliet, IL 60435-7193.

Pero la verdadera definición mismo se pierde o se arruina?” (Lucas sostiene. ¿Soy muy débil? Sí, pero o live means to be desired and loved by God, moment after moment” no empieza con nada que yo me 9, 24-25). Dios es fuerte. ¿Extrañaré mi antigua (Jubilee of the Consecrated Life, Appendix IA). haya propuesto como una meta Un obstáculo a la seria vida? Tal vez, pero ganaré algo más. Of all the ways one might define human life, that brief and startling para mí mismo. Sino que empieza consideración de una vocación ¿Abandonaré lo que he construido? statement says everything. I wonder what kind of definition each of us reconociendo que la única razón por religiosa es que comenzamos No, se lo daré a Dios. ¿Perderé a would write were we asked to define to live. I have a suspicion that la que estoy vivo es que soy “deseado preguntando: “¿Debo yo hacer mi familia? No, estaré más cerca y amado por Dios.” Al desearme y esto?” En otras palabras, nosotros de ellos, y Dios extenderá aún más many“T of us would begin, “To live means that I …” Our definitions would continue with a list amarme, Dios me dio el ser y me abordamos una vocación como mi familia. ¿Limitaré mis futuras of things that I would accomplish, achieve, feel, think, know, do. sostiene. Yo no soy ni el origen ni lo haríamos con un cambio de opciones? Indudablemente que la meta de mi propia vida. Yo soy profesión, cuando, en efecto, tiene sí, pero en entregarme a Dios, lo But, the true definition does not begin One obstacle to serious consideration No, I will give it to God. Will I lose my quien es deseado y amado por Dios, mucho más que ver con nuestra ganaré todo. with anything that I set as a goal for of a religious vocation is that we begin family? No, I will grow even closer to momento a momento, y por eso estoy inclinación a saltar a los brazos de Por favor únanse a mí en oración myself. Instead it begins with recogniz- by asking, “Should I do this?” In other them, and God will even expand my vivo. ¡Mi existencia es evidencia de Dios. Tiene que ver con rendirnos por aquellos que en nuestra diócesis

the Bishop ing that the only reason I am alive is words, we approach a vocation as we family. Will I limit my future choices? que Dios existe! nosotros a la verdad – aunque no están considerando la vocación al that I am “desired and loved by God.” would a career change, when, in fact, it Most definitely, yes, but, in giving my- Para la mayoría de nosotros, lo comprendamos completamente sacerdocio o a la vida religiosa (¡y By desiring and loving me, God brought has much more to do with our willing- self to God, I will gain everything. tomando la definición seriamente – que sin importar lo que ya haya por los que no están considerando me into being and sustains me. I am ness to leap into God’s arms. It has to Please join me in prayer for those significaría realizado, la una vocación, pero lo deberían estar From From neither the source do with surren- in our diocese who are considering a permitir que Es la irónica revo- razón por la que haciendo!). Oren para que ellos nor the goal of It is the revolu- dering ourselves vocation to the priesthood or religious una revolución lución del Evan- estoy viviendo es puedan revivir el deseo y amor de my own life. I am tionary irony of to the truth – life (and for those who are not consid- suceda en que soy deseado Dios por ellos, para que ellos den su one who is desired even though we ering a vocation but should be!). Pray nuestros gelio, que, en olvidarme y amado por yo a Dios por su bien y el nuestro. and loved by God, the Gospel that, in forget- do not fully un- they will come alive in God’s desire and corazones. Si la de mí mismo, me encuen- Dios. Oren para que ellos tengan el valor moment after ting myself, I find myself derstand it – that love for them, that they will give their I razón por la que tro; que, en rendirme a “¿Qué es de exponer sus vidas por lo que moment, and, – that, in surrendering no matter what to God for his sake and ours. Pray they estoy vivo es lo que Dios significavivir . Oren para que ellos therefore, I am I have already will have the courage to stake their lives porque soy un Dios como su instrumen- me pide que oigan su llamada y contesten: “¡Sí!” alive. My existence myself to God as his in- accomplished, on what it means to live. Pray they will deseo de Dios, el to, me da más vida.” haga?” Esta Quisiera hacer una petición a todos is evidence that strument, I come alive.” the reason I am hear his call and answer, “Yes!” amado de Dios, es la pregunta los que leen esta columna – laicos, God exists! living is that I am I would like to make a request of un pensamiento de Dios, el objeto del adecuada para reflexionar así mismo religiosos, y clero. Piensen en por lo For most of us, taking that definition desired and loved by God. everyone who reads this column – lay, favor de Dios; entonces, nutriendo cuando se contempla una vocación. menos un hombre o una mujer joven seriously means letting a revolution “What does God call me to do?” That religious, and clergy. Think of at least una relación con Dios me lleva aún Discernir una vocación significa quien ustedes crean que podría ser happen in our hearts. If the reason I am is the proper question to ask one- one young man or woman you believe más a la vida. Haciéndome el centro, permitirme ser definido por el deseo un buen sacerdote o religiosa. Oren alive is that I am a desire of God, the self when contemplating a vocation. would be a good priest or religious. el punto de todo, solo me rebaja. y amor de Dios por mí, para querer por las intenciones de esa persona, beloved of God, a thought of God, an Discerning a vocation means allowing Pray for that person’s intentions, cut Es la irónica revolución del convertirme en la imagen del amor y recorten esta columna de la revista y object of God’s favor, then nourishing a myself to be defined by God’s desire this column out of the magazine Evangelio, que, en olvidarme de el deseo de Dios por todos. En esta envíensela a él o ella con sus palabras relationship with God brings me even and love for me, to want to become an and mail it to him or her with your mí mismo, me encuentro; que, época de “estar realizado,” esa no es personales de ánimo. Finalmente, more to life. Making myself the center, image of God’s love and desire for ev- personal words of encouragement. en rendirme a Dios como su una tarea fácil, pero es precisamente envíen su nombre, domicilio y edad a the point of it all, only lessons me. eryone. In this age of “self-fulfillment,” Finally, send his or her name, address instrumento, me da más vida. Esa lo que la Iglesia – el mundo – mí o al Padre Burke Masters, director It is the revolutionary irony of the that is no easy task, but it is precisely and age to me or to Father Burke lógica al revés es enfatizada por necesitan. de las vocaciones, St. Charles Gospel that, in forgetting myself, I find what the church – the world – needs. Masters, director of vocations, St. los evangelios como la llave a la Discernir una vocación quiere decir Borromeo Pastoral Center, 402 S. myself – that, in surrendering myself Discerning a vocation means putting Charles Borromeo Pastoral Center, 402 enseñanza de Jesús: “Quien quiera ponerme a mí mismo a la disposición Independence Blvd., Romeoville, IL to God as his instrument, I come alive. myself at God’s disposal, so that, when S. Independence Blvd., Romeoville, IL, salvar su vida, la perderá; pero quien de Dios, para que cuando Él me 60446. That upside-down logic is emphasized he calls, I will not respond, “I have 60446. pierda su vida por mí, ése la salvará. llame, yo no responda: “Tengo algo Parte de nuestra vocación es by the Gospels as a key to Jesus’ teach- something better to do.” Part of our vocation is to extend the Pues, ¿de qué le sirve al hombre mejor qué hacer.” extender el llamado de Dios. ing: “For whoever wishes to save his life Am I afraid of falling? God will catch call of God. haber ganado el mundo entero, si él ¿Tengo miedo de caer? Dios me will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me. Am I too weak? Yes, but God is Obispo Peter Sartain my sake will save it. What profit is there strong. Will I miss my former life? Per- Bishop Peter Sartain ¿Deseas que el Obispo rece por alguna intención en especial que tú tengas? Cristo es nuestra for one to gain the whole world yet lose haps, but I will gain something more. Christ is our Hope Escríbele a: Lista de Oraciones del Obispo Sartain. Diocese of Joliet, 425 Esperanza or forfeit himself?” (Luke 9:24-25). Will I abandon what I have built up? November 2009 Summit St. Joliet, IL 60435-7193 noviembre 2009

Liturgical Calendar: Solemnity All Saints November 1 | All Souls Day November 2 | St. Martin de Porres, religious November 3 | St. Charles Borromeo, bishop November 4 | Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome November 9 | St. Leo the Great, pope and doctor of the church November 10 | St. Martin of Tours, bishop November 11 Table of contents 4 24 My Story 16 Gift ofChristmas 8 Feature Story make adonation. and choose afamilytosupport season, readthefollowingstories, assist peopleinneedthisholiday campaign.Tomas charitable this yearfortheGiftofChrist- magazine areteamingupagain of Catholics 12 ing inactive Catholics. Read more about thisprogramhere. ing inactiveCatholics.Readmoreabout aimedatreach-and theDioceseofRockford inamajorevangelizationeffort Catholics Come Home – Initiative welcomesbackinactiveCatholics – Home Come Catholics Knights ofColumbus way ofthe Helping others–part

Christ is our Hope our is Christ Catholic Charitiesand the Lost Generation from A Survivor Church, thedioceseisteamingupwithArchdiocese ofChicago toreach thosewhofeelalienatedfromtheCatholic In aneffort

St. Josaphat, bishop and martyrNovember 12|St.FrancisSt. Josaphat, Xavier Cabrini,virgin November 13 | St.Gertrude, virgin November 16|St.Elizabeth of Hungary, religious November 17|St.Rose Philippine Duchesne, oftheBlessed Virgin Novembervirgin 18|Presentation Mary November 21 8 31 28 26 22 20 7 6

Last word Reflexiones defeNuestros fielesdifuntos – FatherThomasRosica Father ThomasRosica priesthood Vocations Spirituality Catholic Life Creed “thecommunionofsaints”? AskthepriestsWhat do we mean when we say in the – FatherDouglasMartis – FatherJohnWelch, O.Carm – CarlosBriceño – Fathers Ryan Larson and Matthew Pratscher – FathersRyanLarsonandMatthewPratscher – MiguelMoreno out ofthisissue What you’llget Parents react to their sons’ call to consider the The perseverance of Saint Monica – CarlosBriceño Christ isthetrueHighPriest The LanguagesofaChristian Be bold in defending the faith Be boldindefendingthefaith

16 it usrpin ae ae 1 pr er Individual year.changesto: address per $15 and information subscription all Send $2.50. August. are are issues and rates February subscription for Gift 60446-2264. except IL monthly Published Romeoville, S. 402 Blvd., Joliet, of Independence Diocese Catholic the of publication evc. AT i a rdmr o FIH Publishing FAITH of portion of No trademark Service. a is FAITH Service. magazine Hope Our is Christ the other questions regarding use copyright material, contact is Our Hope Hope Our is r. OTATR Sn ades hne to changes address Send POSTMASTER: org. magazine@dioceseofjoliet. email or 834-4060 (815) 60446-2264; IL Romeoville, Blvd., Independence S. IL andatadditionalmailingoffices. IL Diocese of Joliet. Periodicals postage paid at Romeoville, ro witn uhrt o te ics o Jle and/or Joliet of Service Publishing Diocese FAITH the without of part authority in written or prior whole otherwise in or distributed rewritten or reproduced broadcast, published, be may © 60446-2264 IL Romeoville, Most Reverend J. Peter Sartain Most Reverend J.PeterSartain the Basilica of Saint Peter the BasilicaofSaint November 2009 •VolumeNovember 2009 2:Issue9 Send [email protected] To ideasandnews submitstory DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS Christ is Our Hope Hope Our is Christ The coverphotodepicts in Rome,locatedwithin DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING The MagazineoftheCatholicDioceseJoliet For subscriptioninformation Dcn. Tom andJoAnneFogle GRAPHIC DESIGNER/WEB MASTER DESIGNER/WEB GRAPHIC CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS CONTRIBUTING DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICE CREATIVE OF DIRECTOR Elizabeth MartinSolsburg , ics o Jle. FIH Publishing ©FAITH Joliet. of Diocese ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER ASSOCIATE Dr. CathleenMcGreal Please call(815) 834-4060 Father BillAshbaugh Father JosephKrupp FAITH Catholic CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CONTRIBUTING SPANISH TRANSLATORS Patrick M.O’Brien PRESIDENT AND CHIEF Rev. DwightEzop Doug Delaney EDITORIAL ASSISTANT EDITORIAL magazine EDITORIAL DIRECTOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERs GRAPHIC PRINT MANAGEMENT PRINT EXECUTIVE OFFICER EXECUTIVE Lynne Ridenour Oliva Cervantes Phillip Shippert Vatican City. Miguel Moreno InnerWorkings Carlos Briceño Janna Stellwag Tom Gennara Joanne Eason Abby Wieber Patrick Dally ART DIRECTOR STAFF WRITER PUBLISHER Amy Kiley UP 228 i a membership a is 25288) (USPS Jillane Job Tim Ryan Christ is Our Hope Hope Our is Christ CHAIRMAN EDITOR , magazine editorial offices at the at offices editorial magazine 0 S Idpnec Blvd., Independence S. 402 Christ is Our Hope Hope Our is Christ TM

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magazine / Christ Christ , 402 402 the poor. Shewasknownforhergiftsofbreadandgrainto continuedtoaidthesick andtendto Elizabeth ofHungary Why sheisaSaint:Despiteherfamily’soppositions, herchildren. shehadinordertosupport everything ing turned into roses. After Prince Ludwig’sher toseewhatshewashiding.Miraculously, thefoodshewashid- death, Elizabeth sold teachings. While taking food to the poor, family opposedheractions,butsheinsistedonfollowingChrist’s Prince Ludwig stopped atthefootofhercastle,caringforsick herself.Her a hospital married Prince Ludwig of Thuringa. Duringthe herdaughter life time,of King she Andrew built II of Hungary.Claim to Fame: At the age of 13, she Meaning ofname:Worshipper ofGod Canonized: May27, 1235 Teutonic Knights; andwidows. nursing services; people ridiculed for theirof Jaro, piety; Philippines; Sisters of lacemakers;Mercy; lace workers;falsely nursingaccused homes;people; the homeless; hospitals;workers; Archdiocesecharities; countesses; Diocese toothache;of Erfurt, Germany; bakers; beggars;exiles; brides; charitablePatron saint:against societies; in-law problems; charitable against death ofFeast day:November17 children; mientras llevaba comidaalospobres,el Príncipe Ludwig la mientras llevaba ella siguiópracticando lasenseñanzasdeCristo. Undía, acciones;pero personalmente. Sufamiliaseoponíaaestas cercadesucastillo,dondecuidólosenfermos hospital casó conelPríncipe LudwigdeTuringia. Ella construyóun de Hungría.Alaedad13años,se hija delReyAndrésII deHungríanacióenel1207yfue Famosa por:Isabel aDios Significado delnombre:Consagrada Canonizada: 27demayo1235 Teutónicos;Misericordia; delosCaballeros ydelosviudos. personas ridiculizadasporsupiedad;delasHermanas la deenfermería; encaje; deasilosalosancianos;servicios del manufactureros ytrabajadores sin hogar;hospitales, laspersonas injustamente; de laspersonasacusadas Colombia; ArquidiócesisdeJaro,Filipinas;losexiliados; Alemania;delasArquidiócesisBogotá, diócesis deErfurt, patronadela entidadesdecaridad; condesas; caritativos; lostrabajadores novias; porlassociedadescaritativas; dolores demuelas;patronalospanaderos,mendigos, delosniños; cónyuges conlospadres;porlamuerte Patrona: Ruegaporlasrelacionesmatrimonialesdelos 17denoviembre Día delafiesta: Santa ElizabethdeHungría Un santoyunareina Saint ElizabethofHungary A SaintandaQueen Elizabeth of Hungary was born in 1207 and was in 1207 and was was born Elizabeth of Hungary Christ is our Hope / November 2009 /Dioceseofjoliet.org Christ isourHope/November2009

are her skull and gold crown. are herskullandgoldcrown. Elizabeth,inVienna, Austria.Includedwithherrelics vent ofSaint died atMarburg,Hesse,ofnaturalcauses.Herrelicslieinthecon- ElizabethofHungary How shedied:Intheyear1231, Saint God, nowandforever. Amen” our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, trouble.one In the name and for the sake of and through Jesus Christ thoseinanyneedor example, maywithloveandgladnessserve Jesus inthepoorofthisworld:Grantthatwe,followingher your servant Elizabeth of Hungary recognized and honored Prayer toSaintElizabeth:“Almighty God, by whose grace Germany, ofbakers. allottingherthepatronsaint también se encuentrasucoronadeoro. también en Viena, Austria. Ensutumba, Isabel en elconvento de Santa en Marburg, Hesse, de causas naturales. Sus vestigios yacen Cómo murió:En el año 1231, Santa Isabel de Hungría murió unsoloDios,ahorayporsiempre.Amén.”Santo, Jesucristo, tu Hijo, que vive y reina contigo en unidad del oestánenproblemas.Enelnombredenuestro Señor Espíritunecesitan su ejemplo, podamos con amor y alegría servir a los que lo los pobres de este mundo: Concédenos que nosotros, siguiendo gracia tu sierva Isabel de Hungría reconoció y honró a Jesús en Isabel: “Diostodopoderoso,mediantecuya Oración aSanta panaderos. granos enAlemania,porloqueselenombrólapatronadelos a lospobres.Ellaeraconocidaporsusregalosdepany Isabel de Hungría continuó ayudando a los enfermos y sirviendo delaoposición sufamilia, Apesar Por quéesunasanta: mantener asushijos. vendiótodoloqueteníapara del Príncipe Ludwig,Isabel Despuésdelamuerte enrosas. seconvirtió que llevaba lacomida detuvo paraverquéescondía.Milagrosamente,

del mes del month the of Santa Santa Saint Saint 5 6 Christ is our Hope / November 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 7 Ask the priests: What do we mean when we say in the Creed “the communion of saints”? The Languages of a Christian

Father Ryan Larson is a parochial vicar at Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Naperville. Father Matthew Pratscher is a parochial Father John Welch, O.Carm, is the prior provincial of the Most Pure Heart of Mary Province of the Carmelite order. vicar at Visitation Parish in Elmhurst. To submit questions to Father Ryan or Father Matt, e-mail them at [email protected]. His office is in Darien, Ill.

I know what a saint is (someone in sists beyond death (Rom. 8:38-39). Saint Paul teaches We do not lack reasons to complain and gripe and criti- or out of sympathy, or heaven), but what exactly do we us in Romans 6 that, through baptism, we join cize. Others, we ourselves, and the world in general, are from guilt, or because the poor are better. mean when we say in the Creed Christ in entering the greatest moment of God’s in continual need of reformation. It is particularly satisfying immutable love for us, the crucifixion: “We These elements may Q “the communion of saints”? when our complaint is grounded in the Gospel. The Chris- be present, but the true were indeed buried with him through baptism tian has the duty to point out the demands of God’s reign in into death, so that, just as Christ was raised ground for speaking pro- thisS world. And, sometimes, it is emotionally satisfying to hurl a strong phetically is that people The communion of saints does not from the dead by the glory of the Father, we refer only to the saints in heaven; too might live in newness of life” (Rom. 6:4). objection into the fray of life. But complaint or prophecy is not the first are being blocked from rather, the Catechism defines it as Our faith is both personal and communal. language of a Christian. experiencing the fruits of A “The unity in Christ of all the re- We are encouraged by one another, especially God’s love. God’s will deemed, those on earth and those who have by the saints in heaven, through example and The first language: thanksgiving for the well-being of humanity is being thwarted. For died.” It continues, “The communion of saints intercession. We often go to those who are this reason, we must speak out. is professed in the Apostles’ Creed, where it has recognizably close to God for prayers. Who is I remember preparing for an Easter celebration in also been interpreted to refer to unity in the closer to God than the saints in heaven? So we a time when our country was at war. Was celebration A third language: compassion ‘holy things’ (communio sanctorum), especially ask them for their prayers. Each saint is unique appropriate in such a tragic time? I found guidance in

the unity of faith and charity achieved through and different – priests, martyrs, confessors, re- the words of Gustavo Guttierez, a liberation theo- I believe we can identify a third language Christians Catholic participation in the Eucharist.” ligious, married persons, consecrated persons, logian, who wrote that we have two languages as speak. It is the language of compassion and forgive- The key word is “unity.” Who is a part of the royalty, poor, etc. – and we can look to their Christians. ness. A Christian family or Christian community is communion of saints? All who are united to examples on earth. They have run the race and The first language of a Christian is always the never perfect. Tensions, mistakes and sins are part of Christ. It is a unity that is preserved in grace won the crown. language of thanksgiving. No matter how difficult any human situation. The Christian community is not life may be, no matter how dire the situation is in noted for perfection, but for compassion. Words of

and fractured by sin. Our union is not with November 1 is All Saints Day, a day set aside life Christ alone but also with all who live in Christ to ask for the prayers of all saints and look to the world, it is always appropriate to give thanks to understanding and patience mark the conversation in Christian communities. “I am sorry!” “I am sorry, too.” (1 Cor. 12:13). This union with Christ, which is the their example. They have arrived where we God. For what? For the unmerited love of God that fruit of his faithful and eternal love for us, per- hope to be: heaven. – Father Matthew Pratscher brought us into this world and sustains us throughout “Let’s begin again.” In a truly Christian community life. No greater reality exists than this love of God, there is room for the shadow side of individuals and and so gratitude is our most fundamental response. a willingness to work through problems. No one is the Priests What does united to God, can be fully puri- other time, we are following this And, often, our gratitude is expressed in prayers, surprised by human failure, but all watch to see the Q: purgatory mean? fied after death. Purgatory is the biblical practice. song, and celebration. Even in the midst of difficul- response. How does the Christian family or commu- name the church has given to the We should also be aware that ties, we sing! nity respond to the faults of its members? Ask process of purification which, everyone in purgatory is des- A thoughtful teacher once said, “Most of us carry November 2 is the com- after death, prepares people tined for heaven. Purgatory is A second language: prophecy a heavier burden than the rest of us realize.” We are A: memoration of all the for perfect union with God. All not a second chance for those not helped to carry that burden when simply criti- faithful departed, or All Souls Souls Day is who die cut off Then, Christians have a second language, the cized or condemned. We are able to bear the burden Day. This day is really all about set aside so we Purgatory is the from God. We language of prophecy. What are the demands of when we see in the eyes of others acceptance and purgatory. Purgatory is some- can pray for name the church should trust God’s reign? Having given thanks to God, we look compassion. Our frailties are often the door to a thing that is probably not talked them, so we tremendously around our world to see who cannot participate surrender to God, who has been waiting with forgive- about as much as it used to be, can pray for has given to the process in the mercy fully in the love God offers us. Who, for whatever ness and healing. so it seems worthwhile to think those who are of purification which, after God offers to reason, cannot take his or her place at the table of about this subject a little bit so in purgatory. death, prepares people for even the most life prepared for all by God? Who, for reasons of Other languages? more Catholics can familiarize, In the Old hardened economics, politics, gender, religion, sexual orienta- or re-familiarize, themselves with Testament, perfect union with God.” sinners in tion, cannot participate in the banquet of life? Our These three languages are present in the Lord’s this subject. in the 12th the moments prophetic language says, “This situation should not Prayer: thanksgiving (“Hallowed be thy Name!”); Revelation 21:27 says nothing chapter of the 2nd Book of Mac- before their deaths, but we must last; it must come to an end.” The language of the prophecy (“Thy kingdom come; thy will be done!”); unclean will enter heaven, but cabees, we see Jewish soldiers also recognize that, after death, prophets in Scripture has been called “an articulated compassion (“Forgive us our sins, as we forgive most of us are not too likely to praying their fellow soldiers who there is one final judgment(Hebrews grief” because it announces the end of a dominant others…!) But, to speak of three languages is not be have been perfectly cleansed had been killed in battle would 9:24-:28). No who is separated from consciousness, which is at odds with God’s will. necessarily to exhaust the list. You may identify other of all sin before our deaths. So be freed from their sins. When God at the moment of death will The prophetic language of the Christian can be languages that are also appropriate for the Christian. there must be some way those we celebrate All Souls Day, or be saved after death. quite strong in its denunciation of injustice. But, the The mature Christian is able to use the right lan- who are imperfect, but truly when we pray for the dead at any – Father Ryan Larson prophetic word is not spoken principally out of anger, guage at the right time.

Solemnity or Our Lord Jesus Christ the King November 22 | Blessed Miguel Austin Pro, priest and martyr November 23 | St. Andrew Dung-Lac, priest and martyr, and his companions, martyrs November 24 | St. Catherine of Alexandria, virgin and martyr November 25 | Feast of St. Andrew, apostle November 30 8 Christ is our Hope / November 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 9 Wayne Mitchell is a fourth- a meeting. He said he Order of the degree Knight, which means had heard about the Holy Sepulchre pro- he dresses up for various events, such as parades and Knights, but did not motes the church in important church events, in know too much about the Holy Land the full regalia of the Knights. them. “There was some- thing there that drew The Equestrian But to truly under- me into it,” he said. Order of the Holy stand his story, you “What it was at the time Sepulchre of Jeru- have to understand the I couldn’t tell you. It salem, the Vatican organization Mitch- was a feeling of open- website explains, ell belongs to. For 25 ness among the guys. exists to “strengthen years, Mitchell has We are here to help in its members the been a member of the anyone who needs it.” practice of Christian Knights of Columbus. Before he became a life … sustain and aid He is currently a mem- member he would help the charitable, cul- ber Knights Council # people if they needed tural and social works 11092 and is a member it, he said, but “it wasn’t and institutions of the of St. Francis of Assisi like I went out looking Catholic Church in the Parish in Bolingbrook. for it.” Holy Land … support The Knights were Over the years, as he the preservation and founded in 1882 by has been involved in dif- propagation of the Father Michael J. Mc- ferent projects with the faith in those lands … Givney, a priest in New Knights, he has found [and] uphold the rights Haven, Conn., as a way that helping others is of the Catholic Church to keep parish members more ingrained in him [there].” from drifting away from now. Take, one example, Those aims might their faith and to offer for instance. One year, seem remote to most fellowship and financial during Christmas, he people in the modern aid to members and dressed as Santa Claus United States – but their families. This was for St. Dominic Parish’s not to Patricia and back in the days where Knights Council #6521, Deacon Alex McCon- life expectancy was not in Bolingbrook. The nell. They are active Patricia and Deacon Alex McConnell as long as it is today, council had prepared a members of the order, pose in Holy Sepulchre regalia. and many immigrants, party for children with and they regularly pray for the Holy In fact, membership in the order especially the Irish, faced intellectual disabilities, Land. “There is so much trouble in is a papal award, recognizing note- many hardships and reli- but one child acciden- the Holy Land,” Patricia said. “It’s worthy service to the church. Mem- gious discrimination. In tally did not receive a not just something that’s part of bership involves prayer, evangeliza- Carlos Briceño addition to mutual aid gift. When the Knights history.” tion and almsgiving – as well as an and assistance to those finally found it, and She holds the title of lady com- endeavor to attend Mass daily. who were sick, disabled “Santa” finally pre- mander, the second-level rank in The Order of the Holy Sepulchre and needy, the Knights sented it to her, Mitchell the order. Deacon Alex, a knight, is is one of two Papal Orders of Chiv- Helping others were also formed to said “the smile on that a rung below her since his status as alry recognized by the Holy See as provide fellowship for little girl’s face would’ve a deacon at Notre Dame Parish in original, continuous and authentic. members and their fami- melted the coldest heart Claredon Hills does not allow him to (The other is the Knights of Malta.) lies through educational, there was.” advance. He helps collect applica- It has been in existence since the part of the Knights charitable, religious, The Knights are also tions from potential new members Crusades. social welfare and public involved in raising and said, “A lot of people look at it It has nine lieutenancies in the relief works. Its found- money for those with as just another club – an association United States with the Diocese of ing principles are charity, intellectual disabilities, – but as soon as I get the applica- Joliet in the North Central. For more of Columbus way unity and fraternity; pa- and, during the Year tion, I look to what they’re doing in information, go to holysepulchre.net. triotism was added later. for Priests, instituted by the church.” – Story and photography by Amy Kiley ayne Mitchell felt fine as he entered his home the day Efforts to promote voca- Pope Benedict XVI as a his life turned upside down two years ago, and then tions and the culture of way for priests to strive chase a total of 157,400 as a way to say “thank in Bolingbrook. the next moment he lost consciousness and collapsed life are also high on their for spiritual perfection prayer cards that were you” to priests, said Lo- Ludwig said mem- distributed at parishes gan Ludwig, a supreme bers of the Knights are to the ground – the victim of a stroke. A month went agenda. and as a reminder for Mitchell said he lay people to pray for across the diocese in late director for the Knights’ encouraged to par- by before he finally woke up. He had gone from being joined because a friend priests, all the Knights’ September. The cards Supreme Council. He is ticipate in five program someoneW who was always helping others to someone who needed help, a remind people to pray also a parishioner at St. areas: church, commu- of his, who was a councils in the diocese process that has overwhelmed him and taught him some valuable lessons. Knight, invited him to have agreed to pur- for priests and also serve Francis of Assisi Parish nity, family, youth and By Carlos Briceño 10 Christ is our Hope / November 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 11 Auxiliary Bishop Roger Knights of Malta care for the sick Kaffer, who died in May 2009. Bishop Kaffer was The Knights of Malta fought during the Cru- the state chaplain for the sades, battled pirates in Caribbean and went Illinois Knights of Co- against Napoleon during the French Revolution. lumbus at the time. One Centureies later, the organization continues its conversation between Catholic mission – a bit differently. the two of them went The Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of like this: Saint John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes and of Malta Mitchell: “I’ve been a began with an 11th-century rest and recovery Catholic my whole life, center for pilgrims. The organization formal- and I can’t come up with ized in 1099, during the First Crusade, and the one prayer.” group’s facilities evolved into one of the world’s Bishop Kaffer: “So first hospitals. what did you do in- Today, the order maintains its religious and stead?” healthcare dimensions, though it is no longer Mitchell: “I laid back militaristic. It provides charitable support to the and talked to the Lord.” sick and poor throughout the world, and, though Bishop Kaffer: “You it no longer inhabits the Island of Malta, it still were praying. When holds political sovereignty. something serious like “It’s an organization that gives of [itself] to- this happens to you, it tally and completely for helping the sick,” said is your chance to talk to Deacon Bill Tansey of Ascension of Our Lord the Lord. So you were Church in Oakbrook Terrace. He and his wife, praying.” Jackie, are members of the order’s American What Mitchell also Association, which upholds the Knights’ mission Amy Kiley realized was how hum- via grants, projects and a pilgrimage to Lourdes bling it was to ask for each spring. The Knights of Columbus recess at the 50th Anniversary Mass of St. Andrew the Apostle help. He was always will- For the latter, Deacon Tansey said, the order Jackie and Deacon Bill Tansey serve in the Knights of Malta. Parish in Romeoville. ing to help others, but it charters a jet from New York; packs it full of was not easy for him to terminally ill patients, caregivers and religious given them.” council. Accordingly, the charitable activities three months, he said. ask others for help. But leaders; and heads overseas. The Tanseys try The United States has three associations of the activities can range from we’ve done. I like to say Others put together a he learned an important to make the trip when they can. It requires a order: Western, Federal and American. helping out with the it’s part of feeling good spaghetti dinner and lesson: he is more willing large number of caregivers with medical train- Along with the Order of the Holy Sepulchre, parish fish fry to partici- about doing good.” raised thousands, he to talk to someone else ing, and Bill is a doctor, and Jackie is a nurse. the Knights of Malta is one of two Papal Orders pating in a community After Mitchell, 63, suf- added. He received about their problems “It really gives you a sense of peace there,” of Chivalry in continuous existence since the parade or sponsoring fered his stroke in June dozens and dozens of than he was before. said Jackie, who holds the leadership role of Crusades. a teen dance or rais- 2007, he encountered get-well cards and many “I’m there to encour- co-hospitaller in the order. “I think sometimes For more information, go to www.orderofmalta. ing pro-life awareness. difficult financial times. visits at the hospital age them now,” he the miracle is people accepting what God has org/english. – Story and photography by Amy Kiley Other areas the Knights He was out of work for from his Knight friends, said. “Before it was just are active in include months from his job he said. They were also ‘I can give you a few Ladies Auxiliaries back regions. In fact, not all Knights an annual fashion show to raise youth sports, seminar- as a school bus driver. praying for him. He said bucks.’ Now it’s more of Knights of Columbus councils have corresponding money for various causes, she ian support, Coats for (He retired as project he remembers being a feeling I want to get women’s organizations. said. Now it organizes Change Kids and relief of hu- manager with AT & T overwhelmed by all their involved with them. … If “behind every successful She said her group focuses for Life – for which mem- man suffering. in 1998.) But his friends support. It’s more about personal man is a strong woman,” the heavily on fund-raising and phi- bers distribute baby bottles at When asked why from the Knights were He also remembers helping now. It’s not the Knights of Columbus can thank lanthropy. “We’ve donated to churches and ask people to fill someone should join extremely generous. A waking up in the hospi- ‘what can I do for you God for the Ladies Auxiliaries. Right to Life almost every year. them with spare change. The the Knights, Ludwig friend of his, from the St. tal at times unable to say financially. It’s more of “They are there to help sup- … We’ve donated to Birthright; project garnered more than responded: “It helps you Dominic’s council, paid any prayers, something a personal what can I port the Knights of Columbus Child and Family Resources; $18,000 last year, Lagger understand your faith his home mortgage for he talked about with do for you.’” council, but they are also there and, through Guardian Angel said. more fully. I think that it … as a service organization for Home, we’ve donated to a When assisting the local helps you become more the church and community,” couple of programs there,” she Knights, she noted, her auxiliary involved in your family About the Knights: Across the country and the world, there are more said Nancy Lagger, president said, adding, “We just felt a predominantly relies on the life and in your parish than 13,000 councils and 1.7 million members. A big part of the Knights of the Rev.Gordon Michels La- calling to help the women and volunteerism of the Knight’s and community. Thirdly, has always been protecting its members from financial hardships. That dies Auxiliary Council #12014 children in the diocese and the wives. They sometimes lend a I would say that there is is why it offers a portfolio of life insurance, long term care insurance and in Joliet. area. They don’t have someone hand for pancake breakfasts – also a value in it in terms annuity products. To join, you must be a Catholic man, 18 or older. Con- With such a broad purpose, to speak for them. It’s not a lot, or just join the men for social of helping your fellow tact your local parish to find the nearest council or go to kofc.org for more she noted, auxiliaries can vary but every little bit helps.” activities, such as the Christ- man, which is part of information. markedly between parishes and Her auxiliary used to put on mas party. – By Amy Kiley 12 13 “It’s going to be a media blitz,” said Doug Delaney, the diocesan director of communica- tions. “You’ll see [the commercials] on during the Oprah Show. You’ll see it on Judge Judy. You’ll see it on the evening news and the news in the morning.” The commercials will air on the major televi- sion and cable networks and will also appear on Spanish and Polish stations, he said. “Anyone who sees television will see these faith-filled spots,” Delaney said. Another important part of the initiative will be welcoming those inactive Catholics back to the parishes. One means of welcome will be increas- ing the availability of the Sacrament of Reconcili- ation at parishes throughout the diocese, he said. “We also have to have everyone prepared to open our arms and welcome them back,” Del- aney said. “The big picture for a lay person is that each of us has the responsibility to share the gift of our faith. Faith is a gift, and this is an op- portunity for all of us to explain our faith, why our faith is important to us.” Catholics Another evangelization effort by the diocese is the Year of the Eucharist that was announced recently by Bishop Peter Sartain. It will be ob- served beginning on Holy Thursday 2010 and will close with the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of the Lord on June 26, 2011. A Eucha- Come Home ristic Congress will also be held during 2011; it will be a one-day gathering to celebrate the Catholic faith and to focus attention on the Eu- charist, which Bishop Sartain referred to as “the summit toward which the activity of the church is directed and the fountain from which all her power flows.” The bishop’s aims during these two initiatives are to bring about a spiritual renewal in the dio- cese through the Eucharist and all liturgical life; to foster appreciation for the Sacrament of Penance; to participate in the Year for Priests; to prepare for and implement revisions in the Roman Missal; and to reach out to Catholics who feel distant from the church and welcome them back. Father Joseph Siegel, the chairperson of the steering committee for the Year of the Eucha- Catholics Come Home rist, said part of the evangelization that needs to occur is that inactive Catholics need to real- Initiative welcomes back inactive Catholics ize “what a gift they are missing and what a gift Christ offers to us” in the Eucharist. brief portrait of an inactive Catholic: In an effort to reach those who feel alienated return to the practice of the faith. They feature “I think it will be an exciting challenge to wel- you are baptized but, for one from the Catholic Church, the diocese is team- the works of the church throughout history come people back,” said Father Siegel, the pas- reason or another, do not go to ing up with the Archdiocese of Chicago and the and offer testimonials of Catholics who left the tor of Visitation Parish in Elmhurst. “It will be a Mass any more. You probably have Diocese of Rockford in a major evangelization church – and then came back. Sample ads can wonderful challenge to have to deal with a lot of effort aimed at reaching inactive Catholics. The be viewed at www.catholicscomehome.org or not gone to confession in years. people wanting to come back.” initiative’s centerpieces are television commer- in Spanish at www.catolicosregresen.org. The The Diocese of Phoenix took part in the Catho- YouA may feel distant from God. Or you may not cials that will air on local channels from Dec. 16 websites are also interactive and offer people lics Come Home initiative in 2008 and ap- understand what the meaning of the Eucharist is. In until Jan. 24, 2010 throughout Chicagoland. an opportunity to learn more about the Catho- proximately 92,000 Catholics returned to Mass short, the Catholic faith means very little to you. The television ads invite inactive Catholics to lic faith. during that year, the diocese reported.

By Carlos Briceño For more information, please go to catholicscomehomejoliet.org. 14 Q and A with Bishop Sartain

Why is Catholics Come Home How does the CCH initiative the proper way to present it important for the diocese? It fit in with the New Evan- to our modern world – all the is part of the church’s mission to gelization plans already while being completely faith- reach out to those who for any existing in the diocese – for ful to the non-changing truth reason find themselves distanced example, as a complement who is Jesus, and to the teach- for the church. Jesus was con- to Christ is our Hope maga- ing which he entrusted to the stantly on the lookout for those zine? Pope Paul VI first spoke church. Christ is our Hope is one who were lost or needed healing of a “New Evangelization,” and dimension of our local efforts or who did not realize they were Pope John Paul II picked up for the New Evangelization, but loved. It’s the same with us, and the theme and so are many for the same reason – Jesus sends emphasized Jesus was con- other parts of us to issue his invitation to the it. The New diocesan life – flock. He wants everyone to find Evangelization stantly on the our religious a welcome in the church and to encompasses lookout for those who education e come to know him in the church. everything the were lost or needed heal- programs, our m Church does, schools, our o How will it impact the Year of and it means ing or who did not realize charitable out- H the Eucharist in the diocese? that we are they were loved. It’s the reach, youth The two initiatives are closely presenting and same with us, and for the ministry, spiri- me joined. For Catholics, the Eucha- re-presenting tual growth o rist is the source and summit of the Gospel same reason.” programs, our C all we are and all we do. The Eu- and the entire daily sacra- charist is the center of the church, life of the church both to Catho- mental life (especially Sunday lics and so ultimately being part of lics and the entire community. Mass), and now, the Year of the o

h the church means being part of We look into the depths of our Eucharist in 2010 and the Eu- charistic Congress planned for at the Body of Christ, the commu- teaching and the 2,000-year

C nity of the Eucharist. When we history of the church and find 2011. help people be reconciled to the church, we are also helping them return to the center of the life of the church, the Eucharist. What do you hope for as an outcome? It is my hope and prayer that Catholics Come Home and the Year of the Eu- charist will be the occasions for many to come back to the church or strengthen their ties with the church. I know how many blessings come to those who participate fully in the life of the Church – sacramentally, pastorally and in its many works of charity – and I pray that all Catholics in our diocese will find more and more blessings by liv- ing an active Catholic life. God wants to do many things for us and through us. 14 15

Q and A with Bishop Sartain Spreading Hope Evangelization Drive Why is Catholics Come Home How does the CCH initiative the proper way to present it important for the diocese? It fit in with the New Evan- to our modern world – all the As your bishop and publisher of Christ is our is part of the church’s mission to gelization plans already while being completely faith- Hope, I wish to thank you for your support of our ful to the non-changing truth reach out to those who for any existing in the diocese – for new magazine. I hope you have enjoyed reading the reason find themselves distanced example, as a compliment who is Jesus, and to the teach- for the church. Jesus was con- to Christ is our Hope maga- ing which he entrusted to the magazine and have shared it with others. The goal stantly on the lookout for those zine? Pope Paul VI first spoke church. Christ is our Hope is one of Christ is our Hope is to reach every Catholic who were lost or needed healing of a “New Evangelization,” and dimension of our local efforts home in our diocese with inspirational stories, news or who did not realize they were Pope John Paul II picked up for the New Evangelization, but and information about our faith. Your parish makes loved. It’s the same with us, and the theme and so are many this vital ministry possible. By supporting the annual other parts of for the same reason – Jesus sends emphasized Jesus was con- Spreading Hope Evangelization Drive, you help us to issue his invitation to the it. The New diocesan life – flock. He wants everyone to find Evangelization stantly on the our religious ensure that every home in your parish continues to a welcome in the church and to encompasses lookout for those who education receive Christ is our Hope magazine. come to know him in the church. everything the were lost or needed heal- programs, our As Christ is our Hope marks its first anniversary Church does, schools, our ing or who did not realize of publication, I am convinced that the magazine has How will it impact the Year of and it means charitable out- been a critical component of our evangelization and the Eucharist in the diocese? reach, youth that we are they were loved. It’s the communication efforts. The two initiatives are closely presenting and same with us, and for the ministry, spiri- joined. For Catholics, the Eucha- re-presenting tual growth The Spreading Hope Evangelization Drive is the rist is the source and summit of the Gospel same reason.” programs, our weekend of Nov.14-15. Please visit the magazine’s Come Home Come all we are and all we do. The Eu- and the entire daily sacra- website at www.DioceseofJoliet.org and learn more charist is the center of the church, life of the church both to Catho- mental life (especially Sunday about the drive by listening to a brief video presenta- and so ultimately being part of lics and the entire community. Mass), and now, the Year of the tion. Your donation, regardless of the amount, will be the church means being part of We look into the depths of our Eucharist in 2010 and the Eu- greatly appreciated. – Bishop Peter Sartain the Body of Christ, the commu- teaching and the 2,000-year charistic Congress planned for

Catholics Catholics nity of the Eucharist. When we history of the church and find 2011. help people be reconciled to the (Cut here) church, we are also helping them return to the center of the life of the church, the Eucharist. I would like to pledge the following amount: $25 $50 $75 $100$10 What do you hope for as Spreading Hope $ an outcome? It is my hope $250 $500 other and prayer that Catholics Come Evangelization $ Home and the Year of the Eu- Enclosed is my gift/pledge of: charist will be the occasions for many to come back to the in support of Christ is our Hope magazine. Drive church or strengthen their ties

9/10/09 3:09:02 PM 1st Payment or JOL1009.indd 1 with the church. I know how $ many blessings come to those Full Payment who participate fully in the life E-mail Address $ Visa Mastercard Discover of the Church – sacramentally, Balance Due pastorally and in its many works of charity – and I pray that all Card Number Catholics in our diocese will find Please bill the 12 PaymentsP 8 Payments more and more blessings by liv- balance in 4 Payments 1 Payment Exp. Date Donor Signature ing an active Catholic life. God wants to do many things for us Make checks payable to: The Diocese of Joliet and mail them to: and through us. Christ is our Hope, Catholic Diocese of Joliet, 402 S. Independence Blvd., Romeoville, IL 60446. Your gift is tax deductible as provided by the law. To make a donation online using a credit card, go to www.dioceseofjoliet.org. 16 Christ is our Hope / November 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 17

Catholic Charities and Christ is our Hope magazine are teaming up again this year for the Gift of Christmas chari- table campaign. To assist people in need this holiday season, read the following stories, choose a family to support and make a donation via the ad- dress on page 19. 18 Christ is our Hope / November 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 19 income Housing Program. Charities’ Maternity a result, in the Joliet area. Their seniors. Renee has some learn- Services Program. Your Amanda mother works two jobs Your gift ing disabilities and was gift of $100 could help lost her to make ends meet, so of $100 charged with a felony Ann Marie meet her job. The the girls’ grandmother would several years ago. That basic needs. family is helps watch them. This provide has made her job search barely Christmas the girls want them with difficult, so she works Shaun is three years surviving to surprise their mother food and with an employment old and loves Dora the on Jake’s and grandmother with basic counselor at Catholic Explorer. Her mom, her income, special gifts and Christ- neces- Charities. She and her brother and she have but they mas cupcakes, and sitates for daughter need winter endured hardship this pray ev- the girls deserve a little winter. coats, boots and other past year, but now they ery night something too. Your gift clothing. Your gift of are preparing to move that God of $200 would make Isaac is $150 would help them into a new apartment. will help that happen. a bright get these items. Your gift of $150 could them family. Your gift of $150 and curi- help get this family some through Camryn hadn’t intend- would help her pay for ous little Adrian, 3, and Oliver, basics like cookware, this crisis. ed to have a baby when gas, clothing and child boy in a 5, and their siblings towels, and sheets – and Your gift she was 20, but she care this Christmas. Catholic live with their grandmoth- perhaps even a toy or of $150 discovered God had a Charities er, Salina. She is kind two. could different plan for her. Megan is 18 years old Head and loving and does her give this As a single mother, her and pregnant. Despite Start best to provide for them. Karen’s husband beat family life has not been easy. pressure to terminate program. Still, her limited income her until she was close hope and She is often exhausted the pregnancy, she and His parents work full- cannot cover the cost of to death, and she and a cheerful Christmas. at the end of the day her boyfriend decided

Colletta and her chil- Sheree thought re- Gift dren moved to the Unit- time but earn barely their clothes and basic her children now live in tirement would be when others her age to become parents. ed States after fleeing enough to pay the rent necessities. Salina would a transitional housing quiet and peaceful, Takisha and her are getting ready to go Megan’s family has the Rwandan civil war. on their small apartment. like to buy the children apartment. She is in col- but, when her daughter children are homeless out. Camryn is attend- been supportive but of Christmas She witnessed torture This year, Isaac’s parents some presents this lege and supporting her found herself strug- and living at Daybreak ing college and working is not currently in the and violence and is still would like to buy him Christmas, including new girls, and they consider gling with drugs and Center in Joliet. Takisha part-time. Your gift of country to give her plagued with nightmares some new clothing and a coats – a luxury they every day a gift from crime, Sheree assumed had a challenging child- $150 would help this the encouragement and depression. Despite battery-operated toy dog rarely can afford. Your God. Your gift of $250 guardianship of her five hood but now works family get some basics she needs. Your gift of since the family’s apart- gift of $250 would allow this Christmas would pay hard to provide for her like clothing, towels and $200 would help this

of Christmas of these challenges, she grandchildren, ages and her children are do- ment building does not for these purchases and for gas as well as some 3-14. While it has not family. Though she had cleaning supplies. young couple prepare ing well and participate allow pets. Your gift of something for Salina as household basics and been easy financially or a full-time job until the to welcome a new baby Gift Gift in Catholic Charities’ $100 would make that well. winter clothing for the emotionally, Sheree and birth of her last child, Lisa is a single mother during the Christmas Transitional Housing happen. girls. the kids are doing well. she struggles to balance who is also raising her season. Program. Colletta works Ann This will be the chil- childcare costs with younger, for minimum wage and The father of Ricky, 5, Marie dren’s first Christmas minimum-wage work. thirteen- barely makes enough to died when the boy was recently with their grandmother. She is seeking better year-old feed her children. Your three years old. De- became Your gift of $300 could work and dreams of a brother. gift of $250 would help spite this tragedy, Ricky pregnant, get them a special visit magical Christmas with She took purchase household remains a smart, humor- and the from Santa. clothes and toys for her care of items and clothing for ous child, who loves his father kids. Your gift of $200 her moth- this family. sister and mother. This of her Amanda and her hus- could make her dreams er, who Christmas he wants to child has band, Jake, have two come true. recently Edward and LeeAnn buy them what he calls left. She children. Recently, their passed thought they would “Christmas surprises.” chose two-month-old daughter Maya and Marcee are away. spend their retirement He wants to give his life and was hospitalized for an close-knit sisters, who Lisa is years in their small mother special perfume decided extended period, and, as live with their mother working a home. Unfortunately, a and his sister a necklace. to parent stressful family member with vio- Your gift of $150 would her baby. job and lent alcoholism moved purchase these gifts – Today Send a check or money order to: Catholic attending in with them, exploited and something for Ricky. she Charities’ Gift of Christmas, 203 N. Ottawa a com- them financially, emptied works St., Joliet, Il 60432. To see more stories, visit munity their savings and left Renee and her with a cc-doj.org, or, for more information, call Marga-Marga- college in them with insurmount- daughter became case ret at (815) 724-1140. Surplus funds will help order to able debt. Today, the homeless in 2006 but manager additional families. Gifts can also be charged make a couple is moving into a are now in Catholic from to a credit card via the website or by calling the better life small apartment for low- Charities’ Transitional Catholic number above. for her Photography by Amy Kiley The photos in this spread feature children who would receive help from Gift of Christmas donations. 20 Christ is our Hope / November 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 21 Christ is the true High Priest Father Douglas Martis is the director of the Liturgical Institute at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake in Mundelein (usml.edu/ liturgicalinstitute/liturgicalinstitute.htm) and a priest of the Diocese of Joliet. In upcoming issues he will examine various aspects of the liturgy as part of the preparations for the Year of the Eucharist, which starts next April.

ast month we considered the fact that every culture has its way of communicating and expressing what it believes. Every culture has its own way of speaking, and so itL is with Catholics. We use the symbols of our Christian culture to express what we believe in a way that is unique to us. We have our own musical heritage, our own linguistic expres- sions, our own gestures that are charged with theological and holy meaning. To best appreci- ate Catholic culture, we have to live in it and abide in it to make the meaning our own. The windows always teach me something. Seated in the priest-celebrant’s chair in Saints Peter and Paul Church, Naperville, the window of the Sacred Heart speaks, teaches and inspires me. Some of the most beautiful stained-glass windows in the Dio- Spirituality cese of Joliet are here. A previous generation has left behind these images as a tribute to their own strong faith and to remind us of what we believe. We believe the Mass is the prayer of Christ to is not we who offer the sacrifice for him, but he “offered himself as a victim for our deliverance.” his Father. There is no more perfect prayer than who does it in us. As he enters deeper into the To be a priest is one of the most dangerous this. What’s more, not only do we witness this sanctuary, deeper into the mystery, the priest is responsibilities. In the history of religions, the prayer, not only do we ourselves benefit from it, reminded to model himself on Christ. priest is the strong, manly figure, who, with we get to participate in it – to find ourselves, our When it comes to the Sacred Liturgy, one of heroic courage, does everything that is necessary true selves, there. the most important things we must keep in mind for the sake of the people. Faith requires com- The window of the Sacred Heart is given as a is that, since the Mass mitment, fidelity and medallion above the window of the Lord’s Ascen- is the prayer of Christ Christ is the true high priest. hard choices. The sion. It also weaves together powerful and es- himself to his Father, priest dares to medi- sential aspects of the Lord’s mission: he holds the our participation in He is the perfect priest be- ate between the hu- Eucharist; he bears the weighty wood of the cross; the liturgy allows us to cause his offering is the total gift of him- man and divine, and he wears the crown of his victory over sin and join him. As a result, self “with no strings attached,” as the is constantly at risk of death. Here we have the Suffering Servant, Christ our prayer takes on the falling into the abyss. the King, and the Eternal High Priest wrapped Mike Johnson power of his words. late Bishop Roger Kaffer used to say.” A leader of the early around the Sacred Heart. It is an icon that will not The stained glass window of the Sacred Heart, located at He accomplishes for us liturgical movement let us forget what Christ has done for us – what Saints Peter and Paul in Naperville. what we are not able to do ourselves. This does once noted that renewal of the liturgy should lead us he continues to do to show his love to the Father, the sheep, who is known by the sound of his not diminish us; it raises us up in Christ. to a “strong, virile catholicity.” This is the image and for love of us. voice, who seeks out the stray and the lost. The Christ is the true high priest. He is the perfect example of Christ, who holds back nothing for our Christ is the true and eternal priest. window is a poignant reminder to every priest priest because his offering is the total gift of himself sake – who does not pretend to die, but goes through Another window, this one in the apse of the that the sacrifice he offers is Christ’s own. The “with no strings attached,” as the late Bishop Roger death to rescue us from all the powers of evil. sanctuary, depicts a priest celebrating Mass. The priest stands there in obedience to the Lord’s will. Kaffer used to say. The preface for the Mass of the Catholics must never forget that these same unique image lets us see what the priest is think- He stands there in the place of Christ the head, in Holy Eucharist, used especially on Holy Thursday qualities in Christ, these virtues, must become our ing as he offers the sacrifice. He reflects on Christ persona Christi capitis, as our Catholic theology as the church enters the most sacred of events, tells own, acknowledging all the while that the prayer is the Good Shepherd, who lays down his life for tells us. Every thought must be for Christ since it us that Christ “is the true and eternal priest” who his; the work is his; salvation comes from him. 22 Christ is our Hope / November 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 23 unfathomable love? If he is calling that child to a religious vocation, then that path is what is going Parents react to their sons’ call to give that child the most joy and the most inner peace in his or her life. And why would you not to consider the priesthood want that for your child? Mary Jo Lovitsch, mother of seminarian John Lovitsch, on how her son has grown any vocation directors say the number one obsta- son left seminary since entering the seminary: The growth cle for some men who have felt a call to discern the formation: No, it is seems almost exponential! Each time he comes priesthood is their parents’ objections. Several par- not uncommon for home there is a higher level of love, peace, re- ents of seminarians who are studying to be priests college age students sponsibility and personal development. The spiri- to change career tual formation is astounding. There are so many in the diocese recently agreed to be interviewed paths. Seminary is not tough questions and difficult experiences he will aboutM what they felt when their sons told them they were interested for everyone, but, if be facing as he goes on in this life, and I see

in pursuing a vocation to the priesthood. They also offered advice to he does not become the groundwork for being able to handle these Amy Kiley other parents who one day may be in the same situation. a priest, he will be a has been set. His love for God and the Catholic Participants applaud at the Jump for Joy! Vocation Day at Holy Trinity Par- better man, father, Church is so evident that it spills over onto all of ish in Westmont. The Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucha- friend and neighbor us at home. His joy is written clearly on his face. rist, came from Ann Arbor, Mich., to speak during the mid-September Thomas Kearney, father of seminarian because he did have this experience. event and at all the Masses that day at Holy Trinity and Visitation Parish, Elmhurst, which co-hosted the event. Father Burke Masters, the dioc- Michael Kearney: We remember when Michael Scott Solomon, father of seminarian Paul esan vocation director, also spoke. Participants included youth ministry first told us that he was going into the seminary Joan Mowry, mother of seminarian David Solomon: I had encouraged Paul, and my daughter groups from the Eastern and Western DuPage deaneries. to discern the calling of priesthood and can Mowry, on what advice she would give to as well, that … whether you are going to be a doctor describe it only as one of the happiest, proudest other parents: I would say that God knows or lawyer or teacher, be happy, but also try to do the Fundraising appeal for retired religious moments of our lives. For days we both walked our children better than we do. God loves our best you can at that particular vocation. … I guess to be held in mid December around with grins on our faces, telling every children infinitely more than we are capable of that the important thing is for him to follow God’s will. friend or family member we cornered about how loving them and ultimately those souls are a gift – Story and photography by Carlos Briceño Catholic parishes in the Diocese of Joliet will conduct the 22nd great it was to have Michael wanting to become a from God, belong to God and return to God, so annual appeal for the Retirement Fund for Religious on Dec. priest. … At the parent orientation meeting at St. why would we not trust God to know infinitely 12-13. In 2008, parishioners contributed $498,376 to this col- John Vianney [the college seminary in St. Paul, better than we do in our limited human wisdom lection. The nationwide collection is coordinated by the National Minn.] we were told that roughly 50 percent of what is best for that soul that he created with that Religious Retirement Office (NRRO) in Washington, D.C., and the students that enter the seminary will leave benefits thousands of elderly women and men religious whose before completing the formation process and communities lack adequate funding for retirement. Locally, the go on to other vocations in God’s overall plan. Benedictine Sisters of the Sacred Heart, Brothers of the Christian As parents, we can only pray that our son listens Schools, Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Poor Clares of Joliet,

Vocations well during the discernment process and then Servants of the Holy Heart of Mary, and Sisters of St. Francis of give him unfaltering support and love for what- Mary Immaculate receive annual financial assistance made pos-

ever decision is made. sible by this fund. Local The 2008 collection drew more than $28 million. Since 1988, Larry Lovitsch, father of seminarian John Catholics have donated nearly $589 million to the annual appeal.

Lovitsch, on what he would think if his Approximately 95 percent of these donations are distributed News Keith and Joan Mowry, the parents of almost immediately to support the care of senior religious. seminarian David Mowry Today, there are more than 35,000 women and men religious over age 70, and more than 5,500 religious require skilled care. In 2008, the total cost of care for religious past age 70 exceeded $1 billion. Visit www.retiredreligious.org to learn more. Catholic Charities forms young adult board

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Joliet is forming a Junior Board of young adults to augment its leadership and volunteer pool. The board will focus on assisting the organization’s Hope House in Lombard by providing on-site services, fund-raising assistance and social networking to connect young adults inter- ested in these initiatives. Serving DuPage County, Hope House offers shelter and job search assistance to people who are home- less because of job loss, foreclosure or similar situations. More Nabila and Thomas Kearney, the parents of Larry and Mary Jo Lovitsch, the parents of Scott and Ann Solomon, the parents of information is available from Christy Chiszar at (815) 724-1139 seminarian Michael Kearney seminarian John Lovitsch seminarian Paul Solomon or [email protected]. – Amy Kiley

To see some parents of seminarians from the Diocse of Joliet talk about the their sons’ decisions to enter the seminary in video form, go to www.vocations.com 24 Christ is our Hope / November 2009 / Dioceseofjoliet.org 25 had forced me to put God first. what I was missing was “joy.” Happiness is fleet- Though God is patient and merciful, I’ve ing. It is a surface emotion that can come and go A Survivor from learned he won’t sit back and wait for us for- according to the weather. Joy, however, can only ever. God decided to reveal himself to me more come from God, and it brings with it great peace. intimately one November evening on a Sunday Joy is everlasting, and it is not a surface emotion. the Lost Generation when I was driving back to school with two It goes deep into the soul where the Holy Spirit friends. I was driving in the left hand lane when speaks to you. That was the moment I realized of Catholics a woman, also in the left-hand lane, put her car that I would never know complete joy, no mat- in reverse and hit us while we were driving 70 ter what I had in this world, until I developed a mph. After waking up from surgery, I found my- relationship with Christ. He was the answer. self in the intensive care unit – with a broken left The following day, I called our local parish and hip and right wrist – and remained in the hospital joined a Bible study, a first for me. I felt I needed for three weeks in traction from the waist down. to start learning my faith to start repairing the Those weeks gave me time to re-evaluate my cracks I had allowed to infiltrate my faith founda- life. I wondered how I had let my foundation tion. That was the afternoon I began to walk the crumble. I felt lost. To add to the confusion, family path God had set before me. members and friends I began to realize began reminding me, I became so caught up in this that my purpose in this once again, that I was life might not be as “special.” People began world and by what the world remarkable as people to tell me that God kept had to offer that I became blinded to might have thought My me alive for a reason the richness that Christ had to offer. over the years, but and that I was going to it was extraordinarily Story do something remark- I found myself happily married, with important. Put simply, able one day. three beautiful children. I lived in a I am here to pass the I began to pray again nice house, drove nice cars and wore gift of faith down to my and open my heart children in union with to let the Holy Spirit nice clothes. What I couldn’t figure my husband. Others once again fill the void out was I had achieved “happiness” who meet my children I had allowed to take according to this world’s standards, will know they are his place. One morn- heirs to this great gift, ing, while still in the and yet I still felt a void.” not because they are hospital, I confessed to preaching it, but be- a priest, and I can still remember how I felt after cause they are living it. cleansing my soul. I wanted the feeling to last for- At times I am overwhelmed by this task at ever, so I promised God that I would never turn hand. After all, I am only human and have strayed my back on him again. from God’s path. I sometimes get overwhelmed The one thing I have learned on my journey is at the thought that I am the one who needs to that tragedies, losses, and miracles will only get make sure my kids hang on tightly to their faith. you so far on your faith journey. These are all In these overwhelming moments of weakness, I great ways to reconnect with the Lord if you let think of Jesus and his apostles. I remind myself him in; however, they will not take you all of the that Christ chose his apostles not for who they way. Once you allow the Holy Spirit in your heart, were, for they were just ordinary fisherman. He it doesn’t work like magic. We must work in chose them for what they could become under communion with him to continue to draw closer his direction and power. That thought gives me hen I was 18 months old, I slid between the rails and me to Mass every to God. Because I did not fully understand that, I hope, for I am never alone. He is with me every of a houseboat my family and I were on and plum- Sunday. They also took found myself right back where I started. step of the way. meted into a lake. Within five minutes of me going us to religious educa- I became so caught up in this world and by tion classes, taught us what the world had to offer that I became blinded Traci Matheu wrote a book overboard, there was another child, the same age our prayers and made as I, who also went overboard. After nearly two to the richness that Christ had to offer. I found called “A Survivor from the sure we received all myself happily married with three beautiful chil- Lost Generation of Catholics” minutesW of being submerged in the murky water, my dad was able to the sacraments. I often dren. I lived in a nice house, drove nice cars and and travels around the country save me, while, tragically, the other child drowned that afternoon. prayed for guidance on wore nice clothes. What I couldn’t figure out was speaking to women’s groups, exactly what God had how I had achieved “happiness” according to this married couples, families, From that point on, friends and family members in mind for me. world’s standards and yet I still felt a void. My youth groups and confirmation began saying that God had a special purpose in During college, however, God’s plans for me heart would only feel “happiness” for a moment kids. Contact her at life for me. They felt convinced that God kept me became less important, and I began living for and then the void would return. Nothing on this heavenmeetsearth.net or by alive to do something “remarkable.” myself. Without hesitation and completely by earth could fill it – not even my family. phone at (815) 483-4268. Growing up, my parents brought my brothers choice, I quit living my faith. I felt that my parents One evening it suddenly dawned on me that By Traci Matheu 26 Father Thomas Rosica Mentis in Deum, Deum, in Mentis the officials and were interrogated, threatened and Johnwere arrestedandbrought before Spirit waspresent inthemidstofitall. Peter crises facedbytheearly church andhow the of theApostles4:31, wemeetoneofthefirst andconviction.Inthe Acts for methisboldness clarity andjoy. of JesusChristandthe church withconviction, story great the tell to and grace by convince and We persuade to world. seek the on Gospel the We impose love. not do and hope faith, in truth inspired byGod.” by divinegrace,thoughtwithoutthewisdom unsustained humility, study without intelligence from religion,learningsunderedlove, joy,divorced to action surrender to ability the without wonder, of prudence impulse the without research devotion, without knowledge inadequacy of“readingwithoutrepentance, Saint Bonaventure.Inintroducinghis Saint of thatgreatmasterthoughtandspirituality, words the remember always us let weak, the and faithful the with friends, and colleagues with home, at workplace, the in day each faith the defending about go we As salvation. eternal and happiness welfare, their for concern deep a beings, human for love a core its at into theworld.” service to joy, to God’s joy whichit longsis beautiful to break and wonderful because itthe fisherofmen,canoftenseemwearisome.But is truly a with him.Thetaskoftheshepherd, thetaskof know himandtospeakothersofourfriendship Christ. There is nothing more beautiful surprised bytheGospel,encounterwith than to P for Social Communications.Hecanbereached at:[email protected] Social asaconsultortothePontifical Council (zenit.org)andserves in Canada).HeisaweeklycontributortotheZenitInternationalNewsService Father Thomas Rosica is chief executive officer of the Salt and Light Catholic Media Foundation and Television Network (saltandlighttv.org One story fromtheearlychurch One story hasembodied the proclaims church that Weservant a are Our defense of the faith must always have have always must faith the of defense Our nothing more beautiful than to be Rome onApril25,2005:“There is Petrine Ministryofthebishop mass marking the beginning of the ope BenedictXVIsaidthisathis in defending the faith in defendingthefaith he invites us to recognize the the recognize to us invites he Be bold Be bold Itinerarium Itinerarium times completely incorrectintheeyes andways at is message The Gospel Gospel. the preaching about correct politically nothing is There andconviction. defend ourfaithwithboldness and word the speak to ability the for today, is it church. early the of life the in moment crucial a is This speak thatwordwithcourageandboldness. but longer any word the enchain not must we despite thedifficulties,losingourlife, Despite thethreats,despitechallenges, that isthefruitofcourage. is theboldness New Testament is the in Scriptures the in Theword conviction? spoke thewordwithboldness. and Spirit Holy the with filled all were they and which theyweregatheredtogetherwasshaken, in place the prayed, had they When difficulties. to up facing of way main community, the the of expression essential the was Prayer name? his in speak to not us, threatening and us forbidding these oppressors,whoareourownpeople, Whyare enchained? God of word the Whyis has happened:whyarethesethingshappening? what of meaning the discover to faith of light the in events the understand to wanted simply and didn’t even ask for the conversion of the enemies! strength or military might, nor did it ask for wealth;ask it for revenge. The prayer asked for no power or it didn’t ask for an end to difficulties, nor doeswould it be done away with quietly or expeditiously; difficult; itdidn’taskthatmaybetheirenemies these terrible people who were making their lives ask that some cloud would come down and cover impeded byforce,threatenedandsuffocated. rather, thefactthatwordofGodwaschained, harm inflictedonthebelieversassuch, but prayer. The occasionoftheprayerisnotactual point thatthecommunityutteredaremarkable returned tothecommunity, anditwasatthis Jesus theLord.Oncereleased,Peter andJohn and orderedtospeaknolongerinthenameof refers tothefinalcomingofChrist. The If we need to pray for anything in the church the in anything for pray to need we If andWhat dowemeanbythisboldness guidance for prayed Rather,community the The community didn’t ask for protection; it didn’t

parresia , not parousia parresia , which , desires tobe adefenderofthefaith today. who anyone for virtue necessary a is boldness unapologetically andunabashedly. Such a announce andtoproclaim JesusChristboldly, to obligation an church has church,the the of community the in us upon out poured lavishly so been has Spirit the where but – given been has what flaunt or off show not do They overpower; theyareneverrudeordisrespectful. than thatmessage. of theworld.Andyetnothingismorebeautiful Saint Bonaventure, seen here as he enters the Franciscan Order, invites us to recognize the inadequacy of “reading without without “reading of inadequacy the Saint Bonaventure,seenhereasheenterstheFranciscanrecognize Order,to us invites repentance, knowledgewithoutdevotion,research withouttheimpulseofwonder,repentance, prudence withouttheabilitytosurren- This boldness andconvictionneverThis boldness der tojoy, actiondivorcedfrom religion,learningsunderedfromlove,intelligencewithouthumility, by studyunsustained divine grace,thoughtwithoutthewisdominspiredbyGod.” Christ is our Hope / November 2009 /Dioceseofjoliet.org Christ isourHope/November2009 and friendship. networks ofsolidarity must develop prayerful we whom with friends many has God alone. joy. and We hope not are conviction, boldness, of gifts the for pray us Let God. of word the people the teaching half, a and year a for stayed you forIhavemanypeople inthiscity.” Paul So andharmfor Iamwithyou.Noone willattack silent be not do and speaking on Keep afraid. be not “Do vision: a in responds TheLord see theapostlePaul facinghostilityinCorinth. In chapter 18 of the Acts of the Apostles, we we Apostles, the of Acts the of 18 chapter In 27 29 Reflexionesde fe

como hemos conocido que hemos conocido como y heroica, santa hay gente que también reconocemos que no hanhay algunos vida totalmentetenido una uno de más que y virtuosa o pagando están ellos de hechas ofensas las purgando laa Dios, al prójimo, a naturaleza y así mismos. o sufriendo dejamos ¿Los sus pagar a ayudamos les nos que supuesto Por faltas? paradebemos unir a ellos mirepedirle a Dios que los no Pero misericordia. con es oraciones nuestras basta nuestros tambien necesario compromisos y sacrificios personas,de ser mejores seguidores fieles – creyentes de Cristo. Estos hermanos y hermanas también son parte de nuestra Iglesia, la Iglesia su nombre)

y habite contigo en tu Reino único Dios vivo y verdadero. Que descanse hoy en tu paz Permite que vea tu rostro. Amén. Permite repitiendo la oracion siguiente: siguiente: oracion la repitiendo Reconócela, Señor, como criatura tuya; Reconócela, Señor, no creada por dioses extraños, sino por ti, y no te acuerdes de sus pecados pasados. de San y santos. José y de todos los ángeles Llena, Señor, de alegría su alma en tu presencia Llena, Señor, Este mes te invito a orar por los difuntos, tal vez vez tal difuntos, los por orar a invito te mes Este en compañía de la Virgen Madre de Dios, María Santísima,en compañía de la Virgen Señor, te encomendamos el alma de tu hijo(a)…(mencione hijo(a)…(mencione tu de alma el encomendamos te Señor, purificandose. Somos una Iglesia y todos estamos en reconocida como “Purgante.” ¿Quién o quienes se encuentran como “Purgante.” reconocida quienes fueran; son hermanos y allí? No lo sabemos pero sacrificios hermanas que necesitan de nuestras oraciones, y Es a Dios. de fidelidad compromisos difuntos. fieles nuestros de celebración la de razón la esa Es recuerdo al llamado un Es Iglesia. la de unidad la a llamado un decir: activo. Es pasivo, sino un recuerdo no un recuerdo pero que necesitan de“Hoy oraré por mis hermanos y hermanas los y pecados sus limpie culpas, sus borre Dios que Para mí. llantos se nuestros deje ver la Luz que no se extinguirá.” Hoy en oraciones. recuerdos transforman en cantos y nuestros fuerzas lo queEn este mes enfatizamos con todas nuestras en “Creo Credo: dominicalmente decimos en la oración del debemos tomarla comunión de los santos.” Exactamente, Es fe. de afirmación esta en decimos que lo de consciencia mantenemos que fervientemente creemos nosotros decir, tenemos mundo; este por pasaron que los con relación una con los santos y con los que se encuentranuna relación purificandose. Somos una Iglesia y todos estamos en comunión, en relación.

Christ is our Hope / November 2009 / November our Hope is Christ Dioceseofjoliet.org / Nuestros fielesNuestros difuntos es el Director de la Oficina DiocesanaMiguel Moreno es el Director de la Oficina del puede comunicarse con él aMinisterio Hispano. Usted [email protected]. or las mil actividades que tenemos a diario o las mil formas que tenemos a diario o las mil or las mil actividades para distraernos, con ofrecen olvidamos que ahora se nos será dificil tan y con mayor razón¿qué a los que viven cerca mucha facilidad así mundo un En lejos. están que los a sus alegrías, sus vidas, a aquellos que compartieron recordar P sus pesares y todo con nosotros? ¿Será posible recordar a nuestros fieles a nuestros ¿Será posible recordar y todo con nosotros? sus pesares mentes. nuestras en nublando van como no vamos a olvidar a nuestrosdifuntos? ¡Si olvidamos a los vivos, se debe poquitos a ¿Eso de que esquinada. Aquellos foto alguna muertos! recuerda lo solo imagen cuya Aquellos el amor? ser así? ¿Con la muerte se sepulta respecto se vive en el presente, va hacia el pasado y se extiende veneración y amor, No, no para el católico; pues, nuestro extiende se y pasado el hacia va presente, el en vive se respecto al futuro. día un noviembre de mes el en marcado ha Católica Iglesia que La aquellos difuntos, fieles nuestros a recordar para especial aquellos que la vida terrena, ya no comparten con nosotros una masión“han dejado su morada en la tierra para adquirir eterna en el cielo.” supuesto por No, muerte? la a celebración una esto ¿es eso, la Por vida, verdadera la a celebración la es contrario, Al no. que vida en Dios y para siempre. el final de laLos católicos entendemos la muerte no como Iglesia la No, todo. terminó se aquí dice, quien como vida, Se vive aquí yCatólica habla de una tranformación de vida. al lado de Dios.se continua viviendo de una forma diferente estoy muriendo. Estoy del Niño Jesús decía: “No Santa Teresa instante este en que muchos, hay Y eterna.” vida la a pasando amorosa presencia la de disfrutando jubilosamente están los ellos de muchos A santos. nuestros son Ellos Dios. de su testimonio de vida ha sido tan público,conocemos, porque que los Son santidad. su reconocido ha se publicamente que reconocidos santos decir, Es canonizados. santos llamamos hay muchos, muchos más que han por nuestra Iglesia. Pero dando y virtudes practicando silenciosa, forma de fe su a vivido recordar pueden yo como Ustedes cristiana. vida de ejemplo mismo del gozando están seguro de que virtuosa gente mucha santos. Estos hermanos yDios. Ellos también son nuestros que Iglesia la Iglesia, nuestra de parte son nuestros hermanas llamamos “triunfante” o “santificante.” nosotros que no todos los que muerenA la misma vez, el católico cree de Dios. Hay algunos queestán gozando de la presencia y, necesitan de nuestras oraciones para purificar sus almas la de completamente gozar y entrar puedan modo, ese de nuestros hermanas y hermanos Estos Dios. de inmensidad modo mismo del pues, oraciones; nuestras de esperando están 28 30 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 31 Catholic leaders Senator Edward Episcopal nuns, Priest confirms Former head of Pope praises film U.S. bishops’ del- Bishops urge Detroit Arch- Sierra Leone’s say convictions Kennedy dies at priest to become excommunication national Catholic on St. Augustine egation impressed united Catholic diocese, losing first Catholic uni- strengthen Chris- age 77 – After Catholics after – will keep urging Charities network as an authentic with AIDS work in voice on key $42,000 a day, an- versity scheduled What in tians – Catholic a funeral Mass in years of prayer women’s ordination dies – Msgr. Law- slice of life – Pope southern Africa – elements of health nounces restructur- to open in 2010 – leaders in India’s Boston on Aug. 29, – Prompted by – Maryknoll Father rence J. Corcoran, Benedict XVI praised Members of a U.S. reform – Bishops ing – The six-county Government officials the world? Orissa state say the U.S. Senator Edward orthodox beliefs, Roy Bourgeois has 92, served from a made-for-television Catholic bishops’ around the country archdiocese will be re- have approved plans convictions of six Kennedy was buried a community of confirmed his excom- 1965 to 1982 as movie dedicated to St. delegation visiting are urging Catholics organized into four re- to open the Uni- people for offenses at Arlington National Episcopal sisters munication from the executive secretary Augustine, saying the southern Africa said to contact their mem- gions for the delivery versity of Makeni, The top 10 committed during last Cemetery near the and their chaplain Catholic Church of the National Con- two-part miniseries they were impressed bers of Congress of programs, services the country’s first Catholic news events year’s anti-Christian graves of his brothers were received into but said he has not ference of Catholic represents every as- with the church-run about the need for and ministries to its Catholic university, violence have con- President John F. the Catholic Church changed his view that Charities, forerunner pect of the human life programs that treated health care reform 1.4 million Catholics in January. vinced Christians that Kennedy and Senator during a Mass cel- women who are called to today’s Catholic experience with all of and cared for AIDS and the importance of under the restructur- justice is within Robert Kennedy. ebrated by Baltimore to priesthood should Charities USA. its problems, sorrows orphans and those keeping abortion out ing plan announced their reach. Archbishop Edwin F. be ordained. and failures. infected with HIV. of any final plan. by Archbishop Allen O’Brien. H. Vigneron.

Prior Alban Hrebic dies Mayslake Ministries to offer retreats for military The perseverance Prior Alban Hrebic, O.S.B., formerly the superior of St. Mayslake Ministries offers a new spiritual renewal program for Procopius Abbey’s foundation in Taiwan, died on Sept. 10. returning veterans and their families. For many soldiers, life has He was 82. been changed by their experiences of deployment and mobiliza- of Saint Monica Born in Chicago’s St. Michael the Archangel Slovak Par- tion. Participants will be encouraged to share their stories in the ish on Oct. 14, 1926, Charles Hrebic was inspired by the context of a safe and Christian environment. Coming Home to Carlos Briceño is the editor of Christ is our Hope magazine. parish’s assistant pastor, the future Abbot Ambrose Ondrak, Christ is a program designed to help military men and women to consider the priesthood. He professed monastic vows come to spiritual healing and reconciliation with God and one in 1945; he also studied at the Chicago Conservatory of another in the light of the Gospel message. This program will he Catholics Come Home initiative is geared toward for both her husband and her Music. He was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Martin address the issues of Post-Traumatic Spiritual Stress. Post-Trau- those inactive Catholics who have drifted away from son. It worked. A year before McNamara at St. Raymond Cathedral in Joliet in 1952. matic Spiritual Stress can affect a person for years after he or church and away from the Catholic faith. Part of the big her husband died, he con- He obtained a master’s degree in music from the Chicago she has returned home from active duty. The retreats are offered splash of the initiative is the media blitz accompanying it: verted to the Catholic faith. Conservatory of Music and was in charge of the music free of charge to military men and women. The retreat leader is commercials will air repeatedly on television sets across Regarding Saint Augustine, department at St. Procopius College for about 25 years. He Sister Linda McClenahan, who served in Vietnam as a sergeant T at one point, she asked a also composed a vast amount of liturgical music. In 1978, working in communications. She is now a Dominican nun work- Chicagoland for weeks starting this Advent and ending in January bishop for help in getting her he took up missionary work in Taiwan. During the 1990s, he ing with veterans in Wisconsin. She will lead a team of military 2010. When was the last time you saw an ad on television asking you son to transform his life and cooperated with the Sisters of Our Lady of China to build a chaplains on the retreat. Upcoming retreats will be held on Nov. to think about God or the Catholic faith? convert. The bishop told her large hospital. Health problems slowed him down during the 6-8 and May 7-9, 2010. For more information, contact Dr. Mary to be patient. “Go now, I beg last decade of his life, but with his usual drive and determi- Amore at (630) 268-9000 or at mamore@mayslakeministries. But the real story of the initiative is the quiet, behind-the- you,” he said, “[for] it is not possible that the son of so many nation, he remained in the mission work to which he had org. Mayslake Ministries is a lay-based ministry founded on the scenes work being done by the people across the diocese tears should perish.” devoted himself. Christian values of St. Francis of Assisi. who are praying or saying rosaries for those family members At another point, she left her native North Africa and fol-

or friends who have lost their faith or do not go to lowed him to Rome to be able to be near him Last church any more. The power of prayer can and continue to be a good influence to him. details, please call the JDCCW Office at (815) 834-4080 never be underestimated and, for every Her persistence paid off when he finally

things to do or e-mail [email protected]. person who returns to Mass or goes to converted. word confession after many years or starts Before she died, she told him: “I do Tree of Life Infant Memorial Mass: The Mass is in remem- Rome pilgrimage with Bishop Sartain: Bishop Peter to make a sincere effort to turn not know what there is left for me brance of babies who have been lost through miscarriage, Sartain will lead a Lenten trip to Rome, Italy, from March 5-13, toward God, there are probably to do or why I am still here – all stillbirth, infant death, other pregnancy losses or early childhood 2010. It includes visits to several of the major basilicas, a one or more people praying for my hopes in this world being now death. It will be held Nov. 8 at the St Charles Borromeo Pastoral papal audience, a full-day excursion to Assisi and more. Space that particular man or woman. fulfilled. All I wished for was that Center in Romeoville. People may arrive at 2:30 p.m. to register is limited. Cost: $3,378 from O’Hare Airport in Chicago. To This magazine is all about I might see you a Catholic and a and gather in the chapel. At 3 p.m., a special outdoor tree-lighting download the free color brochure and registration form, visit or hope, and a great and inspiring child of Heaven. God granted me ceremony for family members will precede the Mass. Call (815) go to gocatholictravel.com/BishopSartain. For more informa- example of the power of per- even more than this in making 838-5334 to register. Those unable to attend may have their tion contact group coordinator, Tony Brandolino, at (815) 834- severing in prayer for others is you despise earthly felicity and baby remembered by calling the number. For more information, 4032 or [email protected]. Saint Monica, the mother of Saint consecrate yourself to his service.” go to dioceseofjoliet.org/jobinserts/2009-09/TreeOfLight.pdf. Augustine of Hippo. We know from Saint Augustine was 33 years old Pizza and prayer: A dinner with Bishop Peter Sartain will be his writings that she was married to when he converted. Thirty three years 60th anniversary of the Joliet Diocese Council of Cath- held on Nov. 4 from 6-8 p.m. at the Joliet Franciscan Center, a pagan who had a violent temper. She is a long time, but Saint Augustine’s olic Women: “Giving Thanks, Praise, and Honor” on Nov. 14033 Essington Road, Joliet, for all women high school age was also a prayerful and pious woman mother kept the faith during that time that 14 at the St. Charles Pastoral Center, 402. S. Independence or older interested in learning more about vocations to the who had three children, the oldest being Au- her prayers would be answered. Her example Blvd., Romeoville. Mass of Thanksgiving will begin at noon religious life. For more info, Father Burke Masters at (815) gustine, who lived a life of pleasure and immorality. should inspire hope in all of us that God will move in in the chapel. A luncheon will immediately follow. For more 834-4004 or at [email protected]. He also belonged to a heretical Manichaean sect. the most hardened of hearts – if we move ourselves to perse- Saint Monica persisted in her prayers, fasting and weeping vere in prayer and love. 32

Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes St. Raymond, Joliet Parish, Gibson City

St. Lawrence O’Toole Parish, Essex St. Mary Parish, Beaverville

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