Serving the People of the Archdiocese of City Volume 37, Number 4 * February 20, 2011 The Most Reverand Paul S. Coakley Lord our God, you have chosen your servant Paul to be a shepherd of your flock in the tradition of the apostles. Give him a spirit of courage and right judgment, a spirit of knowledge and love. By governing with fidelity those entrusted to his care, may he build up your Church as a sign of salvation for the world. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

Archbishop Coakley in a prayerful moment during his installation Feb. 11 at St. John the Baptist Parish in Edmond. 2 Sooner Catholic ● February 20, 2011

The Good News Sooner Catholic Most Reverend Paul S. Coakley . . .Words of Welcome of Evening Prayer Installation Mass Publisher Cathedral of Our Lady Saint John Church, Edmond I am pleased February 11, 2011 February 10, 2011 to extend my Ray Dyer Editor Dear Brothers and Sisters in Dear Brothers and Sisters in very best Christ: Christ: personal We gather together tonight with With firm faith in the Lord Jesus Cara Koenig great joy and excitement. Our Holy and with gratitude for His countless greetings Layout/Photographer/ Father, Pope Benedict XVI, has sent blessings, we gather together for this and a special Special Projects a shepherd to lead us safely on our installation ceremony. word of pilgrim journey of faith. In a spirit of Archbishop Paul Coakley — the 7501 Northwest Expressway great joy, we thank Almighty God for Lord, through His holy Catholic welcome Archbishop His watchfulness and care for each of Church, has designated you to be the to you, Beltran Oklahoma City, OK 73132 Fourth Archbishop of Oklahoma City. us. We are especially thankful for His (405) 721-1810 Fax: (405) 721-5210 great gift of our holy Catholic We rejoice! Archbishop Paul Coakley Church. The most dynamic and meaning- e-mail: [email protected] I am pleased to extend my very ful way for us to celebrate your ap- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 32180 pointment and installation is through lievers in and through the celebration best personal greetings and a special of the Holy Eucharist. Oklahoma City, OK 73123 word of welcome to you, Archbishop the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. In the Eucharist, we profess our most Paul Coakley. Moreover, on behalf of are successors of the fundamental belief and our firm con- all who are present here tonight and Apostles by divine institution. There- Visit us online through the viction that Jesus has redeemed us on behalf of all the Catholic people of fore, they are authentic teachers of Archdiocesan Web Page at and offers us eternal life. To assist the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, I doctrine when they are in hierarchi- www.catharchdioceseokc.org. us on our daily pilgrimage, Jesus extend our most sincere and warmest cal communion with the head of the remains with us in a special sacra- welcome. The Lord is indeed good and college of bishops, who is our Holy mental way in the breaking of the gracious to send us a holy and faith- Father, the Pope. Pope Benedict XVI, The Sooner Catholic (USPS 066-910) is bread. ful and happy servant to be our arch- as successor of the Apostle Saint published biweekly except for once in July Through the ministry of ordained . There is no question but that Peter, is the Supreme Pontiff of the and twice in December by the Archdiocese priests, bread and wine are changed we are all excited about your appoint- Church. It is he who freely appoints, into the Body and Blood of Jesus. of Oklahoma City. ment and arrival here in Oklahoma confirms or transfers bishops. Thus Christ is made visible as He City.This is a vibrant community, joy- forgives us, heals us, nurtures us and How very blessed we are today to The newspaper is not responsible for ful in the practice of our Catholic sanctifies us. faith and grateful to the Lord. have among us the representative of unsolicited material. Since the Eucharist is God’s gift our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, Archbishop Coakley, you are a of Himself to us, it is the Most Blessed in the person of His , Most Copyright © 2011 Sooner Catholic blessing for us and we hope we will of all the sacraments. The Eucharist Reverend Pietro Sambi, the Apostolic be a blessing for you. Above all, we is therefore the central liturgical Nuncio to the . Subscription rate: $20 per year for all plan to walk together with you, under action of the Church. In the Eucha- who are not members of the your leadership, to life everlasting in rist, the bishops ministry is most Please join me in welcoming heaven. evident. By presiding over the Archbishop Sambi! Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Welcome, Archbishop Coakley, Eucharistic celebration, the bishop Periodical postage paid at Oklahoma and may God bless you most makes fully visible this sacrament of Most Reverend Eusebius J. City, OK 73125. abundantly all the days of your life. the Church. Thus the bishop forms Beltran, Archbishop Emeritus of POSTMASTER: Send address changes Introduction and unites the community of be- Oklahoma City to the Sooner Catholic, P.O. Box Read more and see more of the Installation Mass 32180, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. installation events online at www.catharchdioceseokc.org. „ Photos Extended „ The English translation of Evening Prayer Service the Papal Bull Coverage „ Photos „ Apostolic Nuncio comments „ Edward „ Archbishop Coakley’s homily Weisenburger welcome „ Full explanation of The Sooner Catholic is Online supported through the „ Archbishop Coakley’s homily Archbishop Coakley’s coat of Archdiocesan Development Fund. arms February 20, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 3 New Era Begins Archbishop Paul Coakley Installed as Fourth Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City By Ray Dyer listening by radio would also be The Sooner Catholic included. EDMOND — Following warm The Mass and Installation drew and encouraging remarks by Arch- dramatic coverage from the Daily bishop Pietro Sambi, Apostolic Oklahoman with reporters, photog- Nuncio to the United States, the raphers and video cameramen Vatican’s ambassador put these making up the coverage team. words to Archbishop-elect Paul S. Also on hand were cameras and Coakley as he was flanked in front reporters from Oklahoma City tele- of the altar by Max J. vision stations and a crew from the Schwarz and Norman L. Mejstrik: Diocesan newspaper in Salina, “Most Reverend Paul Coakley, Kan., where the 55-year-old you have heard the letter of His Archbishop Coakley served for six Holiness, Pope Benedict the years before his appointment here. Sixteenth. Other Oklahoma newspapers and “You are called by the Holy media outlets focused cameras on Spirit to serve almighty God and the altar and the more than 30 the people of the Archdiocese of bishops from across the United Oklahoma City in faith and in love States who traveled here to take as their Shepherd. part in the celebration. “Having already accepted the A choir comprised of Catholics appointment of the Holy Father, are from a number of parishes and you willing to serve the people of directed by Brother Damian this archdiocese in the tradition of Whalen, O.S.B., delivered moving the Apostolic faith of the Church?” and inspirational hymns and Archbishop Coakley responded: liturgical responses throughout the “With faith in our Lord Jesus service. Christ, and with love of God in my The Mass and Installation was heart, I do accept the pastoral care preceded Thursday evening, Feb. 10, of the people of God in the with an Evening Prayer Service Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. at the Cathedral of Our Lady of “I resolve to serve faithfully the Perpetual Help. spiritual needs of this local Church.” At that service, Monsignor And with that came very loud Edward J. Weisenburger, Cathedral and sustained applause from the , welcomed the archbishop- 1,200 seated inside Saint John the elect as the ceremony moved from Baptist . And with the frigid air outside into the warm that, on Feb. 11, 2011, came a new Archbishop Coakley answers the question put forth by Apostolic Nuncio if he and welcoming confines of Our era for the Catholic faith of is ready to accept the call of Pope Benedict the Sixteenth to become the fourth Lady’s. Oklahoma. Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Deacons Max J. Schwarz Archdiocesan priests, Fathers Archbishop Coakley takes over and Norman L. Mejstrik also pictured. Ray Ackerman, Tim Luschen, John from The Most Reverend Eusebius Metzinger, Bruce Natsuhara, J. Beltran, who served as Arch- bish- The Mass and Installation of also known as EWTN. Joachim Spexarth, O.S.B. and Msgr. op of Oklahoma City for 18 years. Archbishop Coakley took place on Father Thomas Boyer of Saint Weisenburger served as consultors Archbishop Beltran is retiring, but a sun-filled day at the Edmond Mark’s in Norman provided at both the prayer service and the will maintain an office at the parish. The ceremony was beamed commentary for the television Friday Mass and Installation. Catholic Pastoral Center. to televisions across the nation by audience and Oklahoma Catholic Assisting were Deacons Dunn Eternal Word Television Network, Broadcasting made sure those continued on Page 4 4 Sooner Catholic ● February 20, 2011

Above: After the Papal Bull was read, it was presented to the consultors and the people in attendance by Norman Mejstrik. Right: Archbishop Coakley is walked to the Episcopal chair by Archbishop Beltran and Archbishop Pietro Sambi, the Apostolic Nuncio, seating him for the first time as Archbishop of Oklahoma City. New Era continued from Page 3 Little Rock, who formerly served tions. He said the job of nurtur- “What is new about the New Cumby, Eulis Mobley and Paul as a priest of the Archdiocese of ing vocations cannot be left exclu- Evangelization is certainly not the Lewis. Serving as masters of cere- Oklahoma City, and Bishop Edward sively to the “archdiocesan vocations message. Jesus Christ is the same monies on both Thursday and Friday J. Slattery, Bishop of Tulsa. director.” Archbishop Coakley said yesterday, today and forever. Jesus were Fathers Robert Wood and Archbishop Coakley quipped at one way the Church body can con- Christ is God’s definitive word to Stephen Hamilton. the beginning of his homily on tribute to the development of voca- humanity. The call for a New The music for the Evening Thursday evening that “even though tions is by protecting the family and Evangelization is a challenge and Prayer Service was coordinated by it’s cliché,” the statement, ‘You never the “sacrament of marriage.” an opportunity for the Church today Oliver Douberly, Edwin Day, Donna get a second chance to make a first In his homily on Friday, to find effective ways of announcing Robbillard and The Cathedral Choir. impression’ is so very true.” The the newly installed Archbishop Jesus Christ and making Him Cantor was Deacon Paul Lewis. On comment drew laughter from the Coakley said as Catholics, we “are known and loved at a moment in Friday, music was directed by Edwin audience. Thunderous applause summoned, all of us, to be agents of a history and in the midst of a culture Day with Mandy Jiran, Margaret broke out a few moments later New Evangelization. that no longer consider God rele- Noble, Robert Noble and Matt Wilson when Archbishop Coakley recognized “The New Evangelization about serving as cantors. Archbishop Beltran and thanked which Pope John Paul II spoke so fre- vant to its pursuits and concerns. Bishops joining Archbishop him for his wonderful service and quently and Pope Benedict continues The Word of God must be pro- Coakley on both Thursday and the love he provided to the Church to call forth is not merely about claimed to all nations, to peoples Friday were Archbishop Beltran, the during his 18 years as shepherd of designing a new program, setting up of every culture and race and third archbishop of Oklahoma City, the Archdiocese. a new bureaucratic apparatus or an language and walk of life. Jesus Archbishop John R. Quinn, the In his Thursday homily, Arch- elaborate pastoral plan. It is first Christ is the Good News for which first archbishop of Oklahoma City, bishop Coakley called for the entire and foremost about encountering a every human heart is searching and Bishop Anthony B. Taylor, Bishop of Church to focus on developing voca- living person. It is Jesus Christ. we are his witnesses.” February 20, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 5 A Priest’s Perspective... I must confess long line of priests and deacons, to a nagging dis- seminarians and bishops. The litur- comfort throughout gical procession was put in motion these past months. by boisterous organ pipes and As it became ever confident voices calling us forward, more apparent that forward toward an altar and a newly Archbishop Beltran shined future. Change was no longer was, in fact, going looming on the horizon; it was pool- to retire, that a By Father ing around our feet and soaking into new man would James A. the very ground beneath the Church be sent to pastor Goins of Oklahoma City. the Church of The installation of a new bishop Oklahoma City, a vague apprehen- is wrapped in the warm blanket sion settled in. Most people, I think, of ancient ritual. While some struggle with the prospect of a new Christians profess disdain for ritual, boss, even a man of such obvious we Catholics adore it. Personally, I grace and intelligence as Archbishop find ritual a safe refuge from the Coakley. coldness of the abstract, especially Though ordained by Archbishop when it unfolds as gracefully as did Salatka (his last class, actually), the installation Mass (hours of prep Archbishop Beltran has been the and practice to look effortless, no north star of my priestly life. I told doubt). For instance, I found myself Father Kirk Larkin and Father Kevin Ratterman greet Archbishop Coakley him once I knew I was not an easy absorbed in the sight of the 30 or so during the installation representing the priests of the Archdiocese of priest to shepherd; like many attending bishops removing their Oklahoma City. Oklahoma clerics, I have a maverick miters before venerating the altar. streak within me that I do my best We are, all of us, first servants of the Tall, lean and blessed with an the archbishop reminded us that to pass off as virtue. Still, through Gospel and only then holders of abundance of white hair, he took “God does not choose the qualified, all the ups and downs of a supervi- office or rank. Ritual spoke to that possession first of Bishop Meer- he qualifies the chosen.” sory relationship, I came to under- more effectively than any textbook. schaert’s chair and next the ambo There was also in his remarks a stand how the archbishop worked; The presentation of the with seeming ease. There is some- stirring call to arms. He spoke of the understood what he appreciated and Apostolic Mandate, the official sign thing startlingly youthful about “New Evangelization,” a term coined what he didn’t. At the end of his long of Archbishop Coakley’s appoint- him, as if all this tiresome talk of the by Pope John Paul II and used also tenure, an unadorned yet reassuring ment, was perhaps the most 50s being the new 40s be not just by Pope Benedict XVI. Archbishop clarity marked our relationship. He enthralling ritual of the day. Deacon hype. Coakley appears eager to take the but had to phone and say, “I am in Norm Mejstrik held it aloft first for The new archbishop’s homily Gospel to a new generation, anxious need of a pastor in Norman and you the consultors of the Archdiocese, was the most eagerly awaited to proclaim it in new and innovative are the man.” The well-defined con- then for the entire assembly to view. moment of the day. While speaking, ways. tours of the relationship became a Norm moved deliberately around he frequently looked directly into He also spoke of the need to call comforting surety of my life. the sanctuary; the unhurried silence the crowd of priests. We, of course, young men to priesthood. As I sat I suspect the challenge of middle of that moment and the recognition were listening for clues to his there listening and watching him, age is to embrace rather than dread that we are connected to a world- personality, his agenda, and his ex- two things struck me: first, the change, to learn to discern the wide Church through the Papacy pectations of us. He could not have homily was soaked in hope; second, difference between being settled and impressed me. been more forthright. His very the archbishop will be our best voca- being root-bound. The Holy Spirit There was another moment, no motto, Duc In Altum (Put Out Into tion tool because hope within but prefers change, sews transformation doubt unnoticed by many, that I the Deep), a reference to the call of one man is transformative. and demands the periodic sweeping must mention. Deacon Paul Lewis St. Peter, reveals a man taken with Endings birth beginnings clean of our embedded presump- was led to the ambo by several the idea of calling others to a new As the installation was ending, tions. seminarians, one of them his son, and intense form of discipleship. I noted that Archbishop Beltran Thus, the day demanded by the John Paul. I was moved by the voca- Coming so soon after the un- seemed pleased. A long, faithful run Holy Spirit arrived. In the wake of tional symmetry of the sight: a son timely and tragic deaths of Fathers for our Archbishop Emeritus and a blizzard — fitting for a man forged leading his father to the place in O’Toole and Lafferty, the installation now the baton handed off to an obvi- on the Great Plains — bishops and which the demands of the Gospel are of Archbishop Coakley needed to be ously worthy replacement. I left the priests, seminarians and lay leaders voiced; a father leading his son into the antidote for the shock and worry festivities no longer anxious about converged on Edmond to ignite a life of radical obedience to those we priests have experienced con- the future. Instead, I left thankful pageantry and high expectations. demands. cerning our dwindling numbers. and proud; proud to be a Catholic, The Coakley years had dawned. The transformative power of Interestingly, the humility of the a priest, an Oklahoman. The end of The warm blanket of ritual hope archbishop’s remarks was framed by one era has birthed a new beginning Vested and happy to be among Archbishop Coakley is nothing if an unmistakable confidence in the and I felt within me a longing for the invited, I took my place in a very not a man of distinguished looks. Holy Spirit. Quoting Mother Teresa, that celebrated, lyrical, deep water. 6 Sooner Catholic ● February 20, 2011 Edmond Parish Hosts Historic Installation By Steve Gust For the Sooner Catholic EDMOND — St. John the Baptist Catholic Parish had quite the checklist of preparations as it hosted probably the biggest event in its 122-year history — the installation ceremony and Mass of Archbishop Paul S. Coakley. The second challenge was get it all ready in just under two months and do it while dancing around two fierce February snow- storms. And late on the afternoon of Feb. 11 after Archbishop Coakley became the fourth archbishop of the Oklahoma City Archdiocese, the verdict was in. It had all come together nearly flawlessly. “I’ve literally had hundreds of comments from people who have all been very complimentary,” St. John’s pastor, Father John Metzinger said. Perhaps the highest praise came from Archbishop Coakley, Father Metzinger said. “He told me we really had a very good facility for this.” The process started in December, when then- Bishop Coakley made his first major decision, after being named to succeed Archbishop Beltran. He opted to have his installation at St. John’s in Edmond. While the sanctuary seating of 1,200 played a role in the decision, it wasn’t the only St. John the Baptist Church in Edmond was filled to capacity for Archbishop Coakley’s installation. consideration. One of St. John’s organizers and planners, Anne Keef, assistant business manager, ordered flowers and plants for the church and Great A few weeks before the installation, one more said there were other factors. Hall,” he said. “We resealed and polished the floor element was added to make the celebration even in the sanctuary, and planned the menu for the more vibrant, a planned national telecast by the ”In addition to the sanctuary seating, St. John’s luncheon for the bishops and Archbishop Coakley’s Eternal Word Television Network. Keef said a is a multi-purpose facility,” Keef said. “We could family as well as the menu for the reception.” satellite truck was secured to broadcast and Father accommodate the bishops luncheon at nearby Seton Both events were catered by Susie Booth of St. Thomas Boyer of St. Mark the Evangelist Church in Hall, the reception at the Great Hall, and offer John’s, who was told to prepare for 1,000 at the Norman was asked to commentate for the live feed. several places for bishops, priests, deacons and reception. He was onsite at St. John’s during the broadcast in Knights of Columbus to dress or vest.” An event of this magnitude, with so many another room watching the monitor. The nearby St. Elizabeth Ann Seton gymnasium special clergy and guests, also required security. To pull it all together on installation day, Father was used for vesting of the hundreds involved in the Keef worked with Detective Marion Cain of the Metzinger said St. John’s enlisted ushers (15), staff procession. Classes at St. Elizabeth’s were canceled Edmond Police Department and Oklahoma County members, the Liturgy Board and other volunteers to Friday. Father Metzinger said that was done to clear Sheriff John Whetsel. Both are also St. John’s help with hospitality. There were probably 75 to 100 up more parking. Logistically the children couldn’t parishioners. The day of the installation there were St. John’s people involved. Some of the helpers drove be picked up at the end of the school day, which 30 law enforcement officials present to establish a shuttle buses to help with overflow parking. would have been during the Mass. line of security. That included a dog who did a pre- Edmond City Manager Larry Stevens also helped by It was necessary for the parish to work closely Mass sweep of the entire area. For some officers, it having part of nearby 10th Street plowed of its with the Archdiocese’s planning committee, led by was a long day as Edmond police officer and St. remaining snow. Father Stephen Bird. The committee toured St. John John’s parishioner Milo Box said he started the day That reminded organizers of the most important to survey the buildings and from then it was a series at 7 a.m. and was still on his feet and working at the detail, which no one person or committee could of meetings. reception past 5 p.m. tackle. “It was decided at that time that both vesper Special attention was also given the Mass. Few “We prayed for decent weather,” Father service on Thursday (at Our Lady’s Cathedral) and who attended will forget the music. Keef recalls how Metzinger said. the installation would have to be by invitation only,” that came together. That prayer seemed answered as the sub-zero Keef said. “The committee also decided that they “I met with Edwin Day (director of music at temperatures of the day before were replaced by would bring in the presider chair used by Bishop Christ the King), Barbara Meiser (St John’s bright blue skies and temperatures well into the 40s. Meerschaert, Oklahoma’s first bishop. All the details Edmond), and music directors from St. Francis, Our “The day went well,” Father Metzinger said as for invitations and programs, parking, transporta- Ladies, St. Charles, St. John’s, Yukon, and Epiphany he smiled. tion, etc., were discussed. The committee met every to plan the music for the event,” Keef said. “They Meanwhile, at the Catholic Pastoral Center, Wednesday at the Pastoral Center until the snow were each asked to select a few members of their archdiocesan employees were busy making the forced us to meet by phone and e-mail.” choirs to perform at the installation. Additionally, many visitors feel welcomed and comfortable. Carol The historic event required many extra touches, choir members from a few other churches around Davito, longtime assistant to Archbishop Beltran, Father Metzinger said. the state were invited, including St. Monica’s.” praised the CPC staff for their hospitality and pro- “We redid the garden area in the church and The results were stunning. fessionalism. February 20, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 7 Explanation of Archbishop Paul S. Coakley’s Coat of Arms The Most Reverend Paul S. Coakley has chosen to impale (that deepest red is representative of the Blood of Christ. Here also are is to say join) his personal coat of arms with those of his new found two sheaves of wheat, known properly in heraldry as garbs archdiocese. This act of union of the arms of both the bishop wheatear. The first of these represents the Eucharist. The of the place and his see is symbolic of the marriage of a second was selected by Archbishop Coakley as a represen- bishop to his Church. The arms of Archbishop Coakley tation of the people and landscape of Kansas, his familial appear on the right side of the shield, joined with those home, where the lifeline of wheat plays so integral a of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and surrounded role. by the archbishop’s motto and the heraldic symbols of Archbishop Coakley likewise wished to honor his office. both the Mother of God and his own mother in the The archdiocesan arms were composed in 1924 design of his personal coat of arms. In so doing, he when the See was known as the Diocese of selected the Fleur de Lys, the Lily of , which Oklahoma. The red of the field of the archdiocesan the Church has used to symbolize the Blessed arms represents the Choctaw word for Oklahoma, Virgin for 12 centuries. Here in the bottom half of which translates to “red peoples.” The silver cross his arms, the Fleur de Lys appears in gold, also the represents the Christian faith, while the five red color of honesty and truth. Our Lady’s Lily, as the arrowheads represent the Five Civilized Tribes — Fleur de Lys is known within the Church, herein Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek and also represents Our Lady in the title of “the Seminole — to whom , now known Immaculate Conception.” as Oklahoma, was deeded during the removal of The Fleur de Lys is also the ancient emblem of these tribes from their historical homelands in the French people and in selecting it for his coat of South and Southeastern USA. Five downward facing arms, Archbishop Coakley also honors his beloved arrowheads suggest peace and enlightenment, late mother, Mary Coakley, who passed away on March attributes of the Five Civilized Tribes and other 10, 1988, and who was of French heritage. American Indian people of Oklahoma. The shield is divided by a heraldic device known as a The personal coat of arms of the Most Reverend Paul S. chevron. It is best described as an inverted “V” and is one of Coakley is particularly symbolic of his steadfast love and the most ancient marks of division (known as ordinaries) uti- devotion to Jesus Christ in the Eucharist and to his veneration lized in the heraldic science. Archbishop Coakley selected the use of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It also carefully honors both his French of ermine for this special division, the heraldic depiction of white fur maternal heritage and his paternal Irish birthright. marked with black tails, which has been the heraldic emblem of the Coakley The top of the archbishop’s shield is dedicated to the Holy Eucharist and family in Ireland for several centuries. More so than this, however, is the use of commemorates Pope John Paul II’s nomination of the ecclesial year (2004-2005) ermine in ecclesiastical heraldry representing both the ecclesial title of “Christ throughout the Universal Church as the “Year of the Eucharist.” (Archbishop the King” and the ecclesiological theology of the sovereignty of Christ’s Church Coakley was appointed and ordained Bishop of Salina in 2004.) The color of on Earth. See the full explanation online at www.catharchdioceseokc.org.

Left: In an ancient tradition, Archbishop Coakley knocks three times on the door of his new cathedral to gain entrance. Above: During the welcoming of Archbishop Coakley to his new cathedral, Msgr. presents him with a crucifix, which he venerates. 8 Sooner Catholic ● February 20, 2011 The Archdiocese of Oklahoma City: Past and Present In 1891, His Holiness Pope Leo XIII erected a Vicariate Apostolic covering Indian Territory, which we now call the state of Oklahoma. In 1905, the Vicariate Apostolic was transformed into the Diocese of Oklahoma by His Holiness , with Oklahoma City as the Diocesan See. The designation was changed in 1930 to the Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa. On Dec. 13, 1972, a Papal Bull was issued by Pope Paul VI, which in effect divided the Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa with Oklahoma City (Oklahomapolitana) being designated as the Metropolitan See (Feb. 6, 1973). The Archdiocese of Oklahoma City covers approxi- mately the western two-thirds of the state of Oklahoma (46 counties); the Diocese of Tulsa covers the eastern third of the state (31 counties). The Most Reverend John R. Quinn, Bishop of Oklahoma City and Tulsa, was named the first archbishop of Oklahoma City. Archbishop Quinn came to Oklahoma in 1971 from San Diego where he had served as an auxiliary bishop. He was 42 years old, bright and articulate. As archbishop, he was given the task of leading the local Church in the unsettling period following the Second Vatican Beltran, Coakley and Quinn. Council, which he did with grace and dignity. Due to his many gifts, he was summoned by His installed on Dec. 15, 1977, at the Cathedral of Our Archdiocese on solid financial footing. Holiness Pope Paul VI to become the Archbishop of Lady of Perpetual Help, Oklahoma City. The Bishop of the Diocese of Tulsa, the Most San Francisco in February, 1977. Archbishop Salatka, almost 60 at the time of his Reverend Eusebius J. Beltran, who had been After seven months, the Most Reverend Charles installation, was a man of boundless energy. His en- ordained a bishop by Archbishop Salatka in 1978, A. Salatka, Bishop of Marquette, Mich., was thusiastic pace was the hallmark of his episcopate, was chosen by His Holiness Pope John Paul II to appointed archbishop of Oklahoma City and was as well as his fiscal acumen that placed the succeed Archbishop Salatka. The announcement was made Nov. 24, 1992. The new arch- bishop, a native of Pennsylvania and a priest of the Archdiocese of Atlanta The Crozier — A crozier is a symbol of office carried by the ordinary of before his appointment to the Diocese the diocese. It is symbolic of the bishop’s role in shepherding his flock. At of Tulsa, was installed on Jan. 22, 1993. his installation, Archbishop Coakley used a historical crozier, originally Archbishop Beltran was 58 when carried by Bishop Eugene J. McGuinness. The crook of the crozier pays he arrived in Oklahoma City and his special tribute to the Annunciation, depicting an angel appearing to the reputation as a good pastor of souls Blessed Virgin Mary. The angel carries a violet, frequently used as a symbol was indeed accurate. During his time of humility.The base of the crook presents a carousel of six statues: the Virgin as archbishop, he had a vision of what Mary and Infant Jesus, Saint Joseph and the Child Jesus, Saint Peter, Saint the most pressing needs were and built John the Evangelist, Saint Paul and the Sacred Heart. accordingly. His love of children was The Episcopal Chair — The Episcopal Chair used in this ceremony made manifest in the Our Lady of was first used by Bishop and is believed to have been Guadalupe Youth Camp. His concerns purchased for Saint Joseph Church (now referred to as Saint Joseph Old for the care and well-being of older Cathedral), Oklahoma City, which became the official church of the bishop citizens were addressed in the develop- soon after Oklahoma was erected as a diocese in 1905. Today, Our Lady of ment of the Saint Ann Retirement Perpetual Help, Oklahoma City, is the Cathedral Church of the Archbishop Center. of Oklahoma City. The Most Reverend Paul S. The Chalice — The chalice used at this installation Mass is that of Coakley, 55, becomes the fourth Oklahoma’s first bishop, Theophile Meerschaert. It was a gift to Bishop Archbishop of Oklahoma City. Born in Meerschaert at the time of his ordination to the episcopacy, Sept. 8, 1891, in Virginia, he has spent the majority of the Cathedral of Saint Mary, Natchez, Miss. Bishop Meerschaert brought the his life in Kansas. Ordained as a priest chalice with him when he came to Indian Territory in September, 1891. for the Diocese of Wichita, he served Engraved in Latin around the large cup are these words from Psalm 116: that diocese in many capacities. “The cup of salvation I will take up, and I will call upon the name of the Spirituality (he holds an STL from the Lord.” On the base of the chalice, the front has a depiction of the crucifixion Pontifical Gregorian University in of Jesus, the Lord, with the wording “In Cruce Salus” (In the cross is salva- Rome in Christian Spirituality) has tion). Three saints are also represented on the base of the chalice: Saint been the guiding principal in his priest- Francis de Sales, Saint Teresa of Avila and Saint Theophilus. continued on Page 9 February 20, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 9 Mass, Installation Called Wonderful

By Ray Dyer The Sooner Catholic EDMOND — Rosalie Larkin said she felt like she was “already in heaven” after witnessing the Eucharistic Celebration and Installation of Arch- bishop Paul S. Coakley on Feb. 11 at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church. One of 1,200 in the audience, Larkin said the Mass and installation was everything she had hoped it would be. “It was just beautiful, the music, all the bishops and clergy, it was just awesome,” she said as throngs of Catholics converged into the reception area following the two-hour ceremony. Father Kirk Larkin, her son, was one of the clergy selected to represent the priests of the Arch- diocese in offering their welcome to Archbishop Coakley. Father Larkin, who is battling brain cancer, was joined by Father Kevin Ratterman. For Judith Monterroso, being selected as a Reader for the Mass was a surprise and honor. “I was very honored to do this,” said Monterroso, a parishioner at Saint Patrick’s Parish in Oklahoma City. Monterroso said she turned Newly installed Archbishop Coakley is greeted with applause as he leaves the sanctuary. to prayer to help her overcome any feelings of nervousness. “I prayed a lot,” she said. Susanna Williams of Blackwell said the two-hour trip was well worth Past and Present it to see her first archbishop installation. continued from Page 8 “It was just wonderful,” she said. “Having all the priests, bishops and ly life as he served as head of the Spiritual Life Center in Wichita as well as the deacons here at one time was just amazing. I am so thankful to have been Director of Spiritual Formation at his alma mater, Mount St. Mary’s Seminary. a part of it.” On Oct. 21, 2004, Archbishop Coakley was named the Bishop of Salina. His For 12-year-old Titus Cara, the day was quite special and memorable. ordination took place on Dec. 28, 2004. His family traveled from Holy Family Parish in Lawton and was selected The Archdiocese of Oklahoma City is built upon the historical accomplish- ments in faith and charity of many and the bishops are the common recognized to be among the first to help greet Archbishop Coakley following the in- thread. The first bishop was a Belgian missionary, Theophile Meerschaert. He stallation. The youngster used the opportunity at the reception to gain the arrived from in 1891, several months after the establishment of the autograph of the new archbishop as well as every other priest he could Vicariate Apostolic of Indian Territory. On Aug. 17, 1905, with the formation of corner. His Mass program was covered in blue and black ink with the the Diocese of Oklahoma, he became its first bishop. He was a tireless shepherd names of priests, deacons and a bishop or two. who spent many of his days traveling to meet and serve the Catholics of “I like to collect autographs when I attend events,” the young Cara said Oklahoma. after getting the signature of Father Marvin Leven. “This is a really good Upon Bishop Meerschaert’s death in 1924, Bishop Francis Clement Kelley one.” left his post as the founder of the Catholic Church Extension Society to become Archbishop Coakley greeted hundreds of people who stood in line to the second bishop of Oklahoma. Witty and urbane, he did much to bring meet him following the two-hour Mass and installation. He posed for Catholicism to the fore in a predominately non-Catholic area. In 1930, Rome pictures with friends, family and well-wishers and chatted with many for changed the name of the diocese to the Diocese of Oklahoma City and Tulsa. several minutes. The Most Reverend Eugene J. McGuinness, bishop of Raleigh, N.C., was Marion Pruitt and his wife, Nikki, represented Sacred Heart Church, sent to Oklahoma in 1945 as coadjutor and became bishop of Oklahoma City El Reno, at the Mass and installation. Pruitt said he “very much” enjoyed and Tulsa upon the death of Bishop Kelley in 1948. Bishop McGuinness was the the Eucharistic celebration and the “beautiful music” and enjoyed seeing architect of the growth of the Church as vocations increased and he sought to priests who had formerly served at his parish, such as Father Francis have a Catholic church in every town in Oklahoma. Nguyen. With the sudden death of Bishop McGuinness in December of 1957, the For Rick Feuerborn, serving as an usher was a special blessing, man who was to be his auxiliary was tapped to be his successor. Reverend Victor considering he had served as an altar boy when Archbishop Charles J. Reed was the only Oklahoma priest to be named bishop of Oklahoma City Salatka was installed. A member of the Knights of Columbus, Feuerborn and Tulsa. He guided the Oklahoma Church during the tumultuous decade of said from his perspective as an usher, the ceremony “went off without a the 1960s, being a strong advocate for civil rights, as well as attending the hitch.” Second Vatican Council and seeing to its implementation. 10 Sooner Catholic ● February 20, 2011 February 20, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 11 Congratulatory Messages from Around the Country Congratulations! Bishop The Diocese of Juneau, Alaska, Anthony B. Taylor and the rejoices with the Archdiocese of clergy, religious and laity of the Diocese of Little Rock rejoice Oklahoma City on the appoint- with the Church of Oklahoma ment of their new shepherd. City at the appointment of Most Congratulations and blessings to Reverend Paul S. Coakley by Archbishop Paul S. Coakley. His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI With Prayers & Best Wishes, as their fourth Archbishop. The Lord be with you in embracing Bishop Edward J. Burns this call to faithful service to The Bishop becomes a “father” Christ and God’s people. precisely because he is fully a “son” of the Church. I congratulate Archbishop Paul Pope John Paul II Coakley on the occasion of his Pastores Gregis installation as Archbishop of Oklahoma City. I have known The clergy, religious and lay faithful of the Archdiocese Archbishop Coakley since he served of Omaha join me in as Director of Spiritual Formation congratulating Archbishop at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Paul S. Coakley on the occa- Emmitsburg, Md., in the late sion of his installation as 1990s. He brings many outstand- Archbishop of Oklahoma City. ing priestly gifts to the Archdiocese May this be the beginning of a new season of joy and peace in of Oklahoma City. You will quick- the Lord for all in the arch- ly realize how blessed they are. diocese. God bless you. ~ Most Rev. W. Francis Malooly, ~Most Reverend George Lucas, Bishop of Wilmington Archbishop of Omaha With friendship, gratitude to God Congratulations Archbishop and warmest congratulations to . We at Most Reverend Paul S. Coakley Cross International Catholic Fourth Archbishop of Oklahoma City Outreach offer our prayerful From his brothers best wishes! May the Most Reverend Charles J. Chaput, Archdiocese of Oklahoma City O.F.M. Cap. grow in faith and love under Archbishop of Denver your spiritual guidance. Please Most Reverend James D. Conley, S.T.L. know that all of us at Cross Auxiliary Bishop of Denver Catholic have you in our prayers. We look forward to And the clergy, religious and people of working with you as we serve the poorest in our world. the Archdiocese of Denver

Congratulations on your appointment as the Archbishop of Oklahoma The United States Adorers of the Blood of Christ rejoice in your City. May God continue to bless you and grant you all the wisdom and appointment as Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. We extend our words of congratulations, Archbishop Paul insight you will need to lead and guide His people in this new ministry. S. Coakley, and assure you of our prayerful support as you lead ~Most Revered Robert E. Guglielmone, Bishop of Charleston and shepherd the people of God. 12 Sooner Catholic ● February 20, 2011 BE: Hope Available for the Hurting Heart By Marka Acton I waited patiently for the Lord; he I felt so much relief and peace. I am lodging. If you really need help with For The Sooner Catholic turned to me and heard my cry. He a different person than the lost soul the costs, it is available. lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of standing in the store causing others For any questions you may have, I was standing in a furniture the mud and mire; he set my feet on a to worry. I have found joy and friends please call (405) 494-7765 or try store leaning against a cabinet of rock and gave me a firm place to who listen without judging. (405) 721-5651 Ext. 108. I am looking some sort while looking at a couch. stand. He put a new song in my So give yourself a gift and join us forward to having the opportunity of I had not taken our couch with mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. for the March 18, 19 and 20 weekend. meeting you. At the end of Mass, the priest The retreat is held at the Catholic Together we can all have the sun announced some sort of retreat for Pastoral Center at 7501 NW Express- shine a little brighter as we once Beginning people who were widowed, divorced way. It only costs $100 for all food and again find joy in our hearts. Experience Weekend or separated. I heard him say that For those who are widowed, Beginning Experience was for those separated or divorced who were ready to move on after their The Catholic Foundation March 18-20 loss. My interest was sparked. Even Catholic Pastoral Center, though I had been separated for quite Oklahoma City some time, I still had no idea about CORNERSTONE More information, call 405-494- the future. Because I could not under- 7765 or 405-721-5651 Ext. 108 stand where I had gotten life so wrong in the past, how could I make Establishing A Legacy sure I made better choices now? If me when I had moved out after anyone had suggestions, I was ready Requires Planning acknowledging my marriage of 25 to listen. years had reached an end. I had gone Planned Giving is commonly used to describe “Can you tell me a little more commitments made by donors to transfer capital into the store thinking that I needed about Beginning Experience?” was all something to sit on so I could watch assets to religious, educational or charitable I asked after I finally stopped and organizations as a charitable gift. Most often, TV. But I found myself confused and made the call. A very nice person wondering how could I possibly pick Planned Gifts are made by means of a formal started telling me about how the agreement and the principal or income from the out a sofa? To choose an expensive weekend had helped her so much piece of furniture, you needed to have gift is not available to the organization until the with the grief she had been suffering terms of the agreement are fulfilled. an idea of your future and the life since the death of her husband. She that you would be leading. At that Planned Gifts are normally made from the explained how it had helped her to contributor’s accumulated assets as part of an moment, it was as though total accept the past, look at the person she despair had descended on me and overall Estate Plan. Additionally, Planned Giving had become, and then envision all the frequently results in tax advantages or other I was completely lost. When a clerk wonderful possibilities ahead. She in the store stopped, became very benefits to the donor. If you desire that a charita- told me that they provide excellent ble gift to the Catholic church be a part of worried, and ran over to grab my arm meals and there was a Mass for the to see if I was all right, I knew some- your legacy, plan today and begin investing in the whole group before everyone went future of your faith. thing had to change! home. And you know what ... she was Psalm 40: 1-3 For more information on Planned Giving, right. I was nervous about going, but contact: The Catholic Foundation of Oklahoma Inc. P.O. Box 32180 * Oklahoma City, Okla. 73123 Bristol Palin to be Guest (405) 721-4115 * www.cfook.org [email protected] Speaker at Birth Choice Event Please Remember the Archdiocese of Birth Choice of Oklahoma Inc. is and Show package; several gourmet Oklahoma City in Your Estate Plans pleased to announce Bristol Palin as dinners; customized stained glass For more information about life estate the guest speaker for this year’s piece; and reversed glass Icon. There agreements involving your residence, farm Annual Life of the Party Charity will also be numerous raffle items or vacation home, contact The Catholic Dinner and Auction. Daughter of Todd including a trip to New York City. Foundation of Oklahoma Inc. and Sarah Palin, Bristol could easily be Seats may be reserved for $100 a “Birth Choice client” and will share each, and corporate tables are avail- her personal story about choosing life. able. There is also a Celebrity Premiere The event will be held on Saturday, event prior to the dinner and auction. For more information on Planned Giving, contact: March 26. The dinner and auction will Tickets for the Celebrity Premiere are The Catholic Foundation of Oklahoma, Inc. be followed by the annual Celebration $250 and are limited. P.O. Box 32180 of Life award presentation. It will be For more information on the Oklahoma City, OK 73123 held at Oak Tree Golf and Country Birth Choice Life of the Party or to (405) 721-4115 „ www.cfook.org Club, located in Edmond. Auction make reservations for this evening, [email protected] items include a weekend getaway at please contact Jan O’Neill at (405) 606- Grand Lake; one week condo vacation 8426 or e-mail her at joneill@birth- Please Remember the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City in Your Estate Plans in Destin, Fla.; Ballroom Dancing choice.org. February 20, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 3 Father David Lafferty Dies February 1 at 60 Rev. David Michael Lafferty, 60, of Sorrows Church, Chandler, and its Vincent J. Lafferty of Logan, Utah, died on Feb. 1, 2011, at the rectory mission parish, Saint Louis Church, and Dennis T. Lafferty of Tulsa, and of Holy Trinity Church, Okarche. Stroud, where he served for six a sister, Joan M. Lafferty of St. Louis, Father Lafferty was born in Tulsa on years. In 2003, he was assigned Mo.; in-laws, nieces, nephews and Aug. 26, 1950, one of six children of to the pastorate of Corpus Christi great-nieces and many caring John V. and Nora A. Mullins Lafferty. Church, Oklahoma City, and mission friends. Father Lafferty attended Imma- parish of Saint Robert Bellarmine A Vigil for the Deceased was held culate Conception School and Bishop Church, Jones. In 2009, Father at Holy Trinity Church, Okarche, on Kelley High School in Tulsa. After Lafferty was appointed pastor of Sunday evening, Feb. 6, 2011. Mass high school he attended Christian Holy Trinity Church, Okarche, and of Christian Burial was celebrated Brothers College, Memphis, Tenn., its mission parish of Immaculate at the Cathedral of Our Lady of followed by the University of Dallas Heart of Mary, Calumet. Perpetual Help, Oklahoma City, on and the Catholic Theological Union During his 26 years of service to Monday, Feb. 7, 2011. Interment was in Chicago. the Archdiocese and its people, he at Resurrection Memorial Cemetery, Father Lafferty attended Holy also served on the Council of Priests, Oklahoma City. Funeral arrange- Trinity Seminar in Dallas, and on the Theological Commission, the ments were under the direction of Aug. 2, 1985, was ordained a Roman Priests Spiritual Direction Team, Smith & Kernke, North May Avenue, Catholic priest for the Archdiocese the Archdiocesan Stewardship Oklahoma City. of Oklahoma City by the Most Rev. David Lafferty Committee, the Committee for Memorials may be made to Reverend Charles A. Salatka. Father Continuing Education of Clergy and Catholic Charities, 1501 N. Classen Lafferty’s first assignment was as Lafferty continued studies in the as a Regional Vicar. Blvd., Oklahoma City, Okla. 73106, associate pastor at Saint Peter area of clergy spirituality at the In addition to his parents, Father or the Center of Family Love. In lieu Church, Guymon. Between 1986 and Catholic Theological Union, Chicago, Lafferty was predeceased by a of flowers, family and friends suggest 1995, he served Saint Peter Church, where he received a Doctorate of brother, John V. Lafferty Jr. contributions to Catholic Charities Woodward, first as associate, then as Ministry. In 1997, Father Lafferty He is survived by brothers, or Center of Family Love, P.O. Box pastor. Between 1995 to 1997, Father was assigned as pastor of Our Lady Paul S. Lafferty of Henderson, Nev., 235, Okarche, Okla. 73762.

Parish Celebrates Pro-Life Effort Mexican Bishop HARRAH — The 38th anniversary of volved in Sidewalk Counseling, a program Roe v. Wade prompted members of the designed to assist young women. Emphasizes Prayers Knights of Columbus and the Catholic The featured speaker was Oklahoma Daughters here to sponsor a Pro-Life Rep. Rebecca Hamilton (D-OKC) who Mass on Jan. 23. The Mass was cele- related that while she was a college For The Family brated by Father Eugene Marshall at St. student, she embraced pro-choice and Teresa of Avila Parish. that she supported the Roe v. Wade deci- MEXICO CITY, Mexico (CNA) — Bishop After Mass, a potluck luncheon was sion. After years of looking into legalized Francisco Chavolla Ramos of Toluca, Mexico, is provided to the parishioners at the abortion, Hamilton is convinced that reminding Catholics that Pope Benedict XVI has Family Center where dedicated pro-life abortion is wrong. In her own words, called for prayers for families during the month of leaders shared their experience with “Abortion kills living babies.” She has February. Bishop Chavolla reflected on the Pope’s abortion clinics and their efforts to pre- since taken an active and vocal role in the prayer intention in a message published Feb. 14 of serve the sanctity of life. Among them was pro-life movement and she has made the Mexican Bishops Conference website. Debby Kirsh, director of 40 Days for Life many appearances before civil and reli- The family, the bishop stressed, originates in the in Oklahoma City, and Linda Giachino, gious groups defending the rights of the marriage between one man and one woman and is a pro-life advocate. Both are currently in- unborn. called to be open to life. The future of humanity passes through the family, Bishop Chavolla said. He urged Catholics to pray that the role of the family New Kansas Governor: Pro-Life be respected in society and that its “irreplaceable con- tribution” be recognized. TOPEKA, Kan. — A ference executive director Planned Parenthood. “This is the reason for which I am inviting you to crisis pregnancy program in Michael Schuttloffel told “So the message be united in this intention of the Successor of Peter Kansas is facing a brighter CNA that previous state Kansas sent was: We whole- through prayer in the month of February. Let us pray future under Gov. Sam governors had been “hos- heartedly support taxpayer that the Church will untiringly promote the family Brownback, who’s made it a tile” to the local Stan Clark funding for the prevention ministry that will influence society,” the bishop said. priority to fund the effort in Pregnancy Maintenance In- of pregnancy. But we don’t He encouraged Catholics to join in Pope his proposed budget. itiative and had instead have a dime for you once Benedict’s prayer intention by offering Masses, Holy Kansas Catholic Con- supported funding for continued to Page 14 Hours and Rosaries. 14 Sooner Catholic ● February 20, 2011 Faith And Working Through a Difficult Death Caregivers extremity perfusions coming and then delicate a balancing act it can be, heard about a priest in Poland who and health-care going, coming and then going, day fraught with difficult decisions about taught at the seminary. Each year, professionals can after day, no urine output, then urine dosages and interventions, and not there had been fewer candidates and often do greatly output, then no urine, then urine always guaranteed to work. When entering the seminary, rarely more assist those who are again, emerge from this state and em- pain and suffering cannot be allevi- than eight or nine, and it was becom- suffering and dying. bark upon three hours of increasingly ated, patients ought to be helped to ing a serious concern for the seminary Even with careful severe respiratory distress culminat- appreciate the Christian understand- and the diocese. One day, this priest pain management ing in a violent respiratory arrest.” ing of redemptive suffering. learned he had a terminal illness, with and comfort No stranger to death and dying, The nurse described how she and only a few months to live. Shortly By Father Tad measures, however, this nurse had assisted countless other her mother had experienced this afterwards, he turned to God and said: Pacholczyk,Ph.D. the dying process patients with pain, air and hunger Christian understanding themselves: “Lord Jesus, I will do my best to offer can still be agoniz- management. During her mom’s final “My mom and I prayed hard and much up the sufferings that lie ahead of me, ing and difficult. Each death has a hours, she had significantly increased over this past year. She was expected whatever they may be, but I would ask unique and particular trajectory, but morphine doses per hospice protocols, to die a year ago. As we began to that you send us 18 new candidates for even the most difficult and unpleasant but with little or no apparent relief. understand that she was actually next year’s incoming class.” The good deaths often have powerful graces and Her mother’s death ended up being improving and that she (and I) had priest faced an excruciating death, remarkable opportunities for growth very hard. Reflecting on it afterwards, been given this gift of time, we became but a few months later when the mysteriously interwoven into them. she realized that if she had not been increasingly devoted to the Divine candidates started showing up at the Some time ago, I corresponded both a health-care professional and Mercy of Jesus. I am of the opinion seminary, there were exactly 18 new with a registered nurse about her a person who trusted deeply in that God gave Mom an opportunity to students in the class. mother’s final battle with lung cancer. God, she would have been, to use be on the cross with Him.” His story speaks of how suffering She described the unexpected shifts in her own words, “out of my mind with Real suffering engages a lot of has meaning whenever we unite it to her mother’s condition that had taken horror.” complex emotions. We may worry that the redemptive sufferings of Christ. place over a period of eight days: Why certain deaths are so much our crosses will be more than we can Our sufferings and struggles are an “…passing through a day of Cheyne- harder than others is no easier to bear. We may not see how our suffer- important, albeit temporary, part of Stokes respirations (a pattern of deep explain than why certain lives are so ings could really have any value or our journey. They are a harbinger of a breathing, followed by stoppage of much harder than others. It gives us meaning. In the end, suffering can greater destiny and a promise of our breathing, followed by repetition of the pause, though, to ask whether suffer- make us bitter or it can make us transformation. Pope John Paul II cycle), days of such shallow breathing ing doesn’t have some hidden but better, depending upon how we re- once described it this way: “The cross that death seemed literally one breath important meaning, however it enters spond to it and use it to enter into of Christ throws salvific light, in a away, days of calm coma, two days our lives. As we seek to use the tools of deeper union with the Lord who most penetrating way, on man’s life ... where the smell of imminent death medicine to alleviate the suffering of suffered and died a hard death for us. the cross reaches man together with was detectable, signs of diminished those who are dying, we realize how I’m reminded of a story I once the resurrection.”

Governor continued from Page 13 ing the vulnerable, born and unborn. Bureau of Family Health, Children & Several crisis pregnancy centers you are pregnant and in need,” Helping pregnant women to choose Families and that funding is depen- across the U.S. have encountered Schuttloffel said. “Fortunately, life is critical to the pro-life project, dent on annual appropriation by the difficulties from pro-abortion law- there has been a significant course which this program does,” he said. Kansas Legislature. makers who’ve sought to undermine correction in Kansas with respect to “This program is in essence a state- He noted that although there state funding for the centers or the life issues,” he said. ment by the state that we want to have been “legislators who have not increase legislative red tape. In a Feb. 14 e-mail, the Kansas support pregnant women, we want been helpful to varying degrees,” In recent months, the New York Catholic Conference director ex- them to know that they do not have to major opposition to the program has Council proposed legislation that plained that Gov. Brownback — who face a challenging pregnancy alone, come specifically from past governors. would sharply regulate crisis was sworn in on Jan. 10 — included and that we want to help them choose “There really aren’t any legislators pregnancy centers that do not provide $350,000 for the Stan Clark program life.” who have had the nerve to stand abortion and contraception. A critic in his budget proposal last month. The initiative was first proposed up and say they oppose funding for called the move “part of a national Schuttloffel called the move “a in the 1999 Kansas legislative pregnant women in need.” strategy by Planned Parenthood and major turning point” for the crisis session. It awards competitive-based The pattern, historically, “has NARAL to attack pro-life pregnancy pregnancy effort, saying that instead grants to not-for-profit organizations been for the Legislature to support centers.” “of having a governor who is funda- to provide an array of social services the program only to have the governor Christopher Bell, co-founder with mentally hostile to the program, we to pregnant women and, if necessary, work against it,” he said. Father Benedict Groeschel of Good have one who is actually asking for it for up to one year after their child’s Although confirmation of the Counsel Inc., told CNA last October to be funded.” birth. Among services provided are budget proposal won’t likely take that similar proposals have “failed The initiative is important, he counseling on alternatives to abortion place until May, “we won’t have miserably” in several other state said, “because the pro-life movement and facilitation of adoption. to wait and wonder whether the legislatures, but the proposals have is about more than just placing Schuttloffel added the program governor will veto the funding,” won approval in Washington, D.C., restrictions on abortion.” is administered by the Kansas De- Schuttloffel said. “We know he Baltimore and Montgomery County, “It is fundamentally about help- partment of Health and Environment, supports it.” Md. February 20, 2011 ● Sooner Catholic 15 Calendar FEBRUARY guest speaker will be Howard Van Pool, “12 Reasons to Abolish 4 First Friday Sacred Heart Mass 20 Pilgrimage Sunday, Mass begins Hendrick, director of the Oklahoma the Death Penalty.” For more at the Catholic Pastoral Center. at 11 a.m. and includes blessing of Department of Human Services. information, contact Rachel at (405) Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament the sick and blessing of the children, RSVP to Catholic Charities at (405) 384-3807 or Willy at (405) 417-5802. is at 5:30 p.m. with the Sacrament noon lunch, 1 p.m. Novena prayers to 523-3000. of Reconciliation available prior to Infant Jesus of Prague, Litany of the 26 Retreat - Finding God in Our Mass. Mass is at 7 p.m. For more Infant Jesus, and Adoration of the 23 Eucharistic Adoration at the Everyday Lives: Living A Healthy information, call the Office of Family Blessed Sacrament. National Shrine Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Spirituality with Joanne Yankauskis, Life at (405) 721-8944 or Diane Grim of the Infant Jesus of Prague is Help, NW 32nd and Western, every OSB, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Fee: at (405) 528-6252. located at Saint Wenceslaus Church Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. to noon. All are $40 ($10 deposit). Place: Red Plains at 304 Jim Thorpe Blvd. in Prague. welcome. Spirituality Center - Library. Bring a (405) 567-3080 or www.shrineofinfant- sack lunch. 5 The Lay Missionaries of jesus.com. 24 Exposition of the Blessed Charity, the Secular (Lay) Order Sacrament at Epiphany Parish MARCH of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta meet 20 The Community of the Secular Chapel, every Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 8 2 Michael Reardon to perform the in the Council Room at St. John the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary p.m. and daily (M,T,W,F) from 8:30 to Gospel of Matthew at Epiphany Baptist Catholic Parish, Edmond, on of Mt. Carmel and St. Teresa of 9:30 a.m. All are welcome. Epiphany Parish, Oklahoma City, at 7 p.m. This the first and third Saturday of each Jesus - Oklahoma Community and is located at 7336 W. Britton Road, was rescheduled due to snow. month beginning with Holy Mass at Province of St. Therese meets at St. Oklahoma City 73132. 7:30 a.m. in the chapel. For more Joseph Carmelite in 4 First Friday Adoration at St. information, contact Toni Harrelson, Piedmont from 1 to 4 p.m. For more 24 Eucharistic Adoration, every Francis of Assisi in Oklahoma City. LMC, at (405) 341-2199 or lmc- information, call Susan Staudt at Thursday from 5 p.m. to midnight at After the 7:30 a.m. Mass, and [email protected]. (405) 282-6624. St. Gregory’s Chapel, St. Gregory’s concludes at 5:30 p.m. with closing Monastery, Shawnee. The evening prayer and Benediction. This is open 20 The Secular Franciscan Order will begin with Mass at 5 p.m. with to all. St. Francis is located at 1910 6 Byzantine Liturgy will be offered of St. Francis Fraternity meets at adoration to follow. Included is N.W. 19th, Oklahoma City. at 5 p.m. at St. Mark’s Church, 3939 1:15 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Hospital vespers with the monks. W. Tecumseh Road, Norman. Chapel. For more information, call 4 Holy Family Home Mass, 11:30 Moleben-Intercessions to Christ Jim Disbrow at 830-8688. 24 Theology on Tap for young a.m., Holy Family Home, 6821 Eddie Emmanuel will be celebrated after adults (18-39), married, divorced or Drive, Midwest City. To confirm that Liturgy. For more information, call 21 Catholic Charities Annual single, every fourth Thursday from 8 Mass will be held that day and for Father Phil Seeton at (580) 536-6351. Meeting will be held at St. Francis of to 10 p.m. at Belle Isle Brewery (50 directions, contact HFMH at 741- Assisi Church in Oklahoma City. Penn Place) in the 1st Floor Bar. This 7419. Mass will be at 4:30 p.m. Special month’s speaker and topic is Becky 9 Ash Wednesday Jobs Box Director of Religious Education preferred. Degree in religious education, theology Five Full-Time Teachers Epiphany of the Lord Parish, Oklahoma or equivalent degree required. Application and job City, is accepting applications for the full-time description available by calling the parish office at St. Gregory’s University, a Catholic and position of Director of Religious Education. The 1-405-528-0485. Send application, resume and Benedictine liberal arts community (est. 1875), parish is searching for a candidate deeply rooted references to DRE Search Committee, St. Francis seeks qualified applicants for the following five in the Catholic faith with experience and vision of Assisi Parish, 1901 N.W. 18th St., Oklahoma full-time, tenure-track positions: English/- to serve its 1,600 families. The director will co- City, Okla. 73106. Education, Philosophy (applied and medical ethics ordinate all education programs for children and desirable), Biology, History and Dance. We seek adults. The director will be responsible for cate- Immediate Part-Time Cafeteria Position faculty who are broadly trained and student- chist recruitment, formation and certification, and Bishop McGuinness High School cafeteria oriented. Ph.D. preferred; ABD candidates must also collaborate with the parish leaders of is accepting applications for an immediate part- considered if doctorate near completion. Minimum youth ministry, music, and the Journey of Faith. time position. Hours are 8 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. of MFA in Dance. Responsibilities include teaching Applicants should have a degree in theology, Monday through Friday. Contact Marguerite a range of undergraduate courses, student recruit- religious education or related area and minimum Claybaugh, cafeteria manager, at (405) 842-6656 ment, professional development and university of five years experience working in catechetical or e-mail to [email protected]. service. Appointments begin August 2011 (pending ministry (master’s degree preferred). Interested final budget approval). See full job description at candidates should contact Patricia Koenig in the Cafeteria Manager www.stgregorys.edu. Send letter of application, Archdiocesan Office of Religious Education to Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School vita, transcripts, statement of teaching philosophy initiate the application process (PKoenig@Cath- is accepting applications for cafeteria manager for and three letters of recommendation electronically ArchdioceseOKC.org), or (405) 721-5651 Ext. 126. the 2011-2012 school year. Applicants need to to [email protected]. Review of applications will have had school cafeteria experience, knowledge of begin immediately and continue until the position Director of Religious Education food safety as well as the Federal School Lunch is filled, which will be announced on the SGU web St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Oklahoma Program and good computer skills. Contact site. City is accepting applications for a dynamic Marguerite Claybaugh at (405) 842-6656 or by Director of Religious Education. Full-time position e-mail to [email protected]. For up-to-date job listings, visit and benefits. Starting June 2011. Experience www.catharchdioceseokc.org. 16 Sooner Catholic ● February 20, 2011 School Celebrates Sacrifice OKLAHOMA CITY — Saint as U.S. Marines, were honored as Principal Suzette Williams in- Eugene School celebrated Catholic well for their military service. Pre- troduced the visitors and led the Schools Week by honoring those school student Ben Betters was students in a special blessing. She who have served our nation and sac- there to receive recognition for his shared this quote from Blessed rificed so we may live in freedom. father, Matt, who is currently de- Mother Teresa: “I must be willing to The national theme this year ployed in Iraq. give whatever it takes to do good was “A+ for America, Catholic All of the teachers and students to others. This requires that I will Schools.” were involved in the planning be willing to give until it hurts. Twenty Saint Eugene parents and this opened up many learning Otherwise, there is no true love in of children in grades P-3 through opportunities. me and I bring injustice, no peace, eighth grade who are members of Music teacher Sabrina Malone, to those around me.” the police force, fire department, the taught patriotic songs to the Williams expressed that this military and FBI, including the students which were sung at the quote was a perfect reflection on the Village fire and police departments, assembly, and students in Kara selfless sacrifices each one of these were honored at a special assembly. Whitmire’s art class designed and men and women make in order for Middle school social studies created a large American flag, all of us to share in God’s love here teacher Alex Whitten and Deacon which served as a backdrop in the at Saint Eugene Tom Goldsworthy, who both served Saint Eugene gym. and in our country. Toby Heppel with his son, Christian.

Isabella Russell (third grade), with grandfather, Robert Russell