Six months of Pope Francis: What can we expect next? / Pgs. 1, 14 Serving the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas Volume XXXIII, No. 10 OCTOBER 2013

Friend us on Facebook, Bringing closure to the Year of Faith or check out sanangelodiocese.org My dear sisters and brothers in Christ: A PASTORAL LETTER In a few more weeks, we will from Bishop Michael Pfeifer bring to an end the beautiful Year of Faith on the Solemnity of Our through what we have heard in Lord Jesus Christ, the King of the preaching, teaching, and what we Universe—November 24, 2013, have studied and prayed about, has which is the last Sunday of the deepened our spirit of faith, and has Liturgical Year. Ending the Year of especially inspired us to put our Faith should in no way imply that faith in action. First and foremost we give up our prayerful efforts to as we close this Year of Faith, let deepen our lives of faith each day us express our gratitude to our liv- Fall Festival Listings as followers of Jesus Christ. ing God for the gift of faith and Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica, July 7. (CNS Photo) (Please See FAITH/19) Hopefully this Year of Faith, OCTOBER 13 — St. Boniface, Olfen Pope: Get out 19 — St. Ann’s Colorado City 20 — St. Ambrose, Wall 26 — St. Stephen’s, Midland into real world 26 — St. Mary’s Odessa to find Jesus 27 — St. Ann’s Church, Sonora A woman By Carol Glatz prays during a NOVEMBER Catholic News Service Mass for 10 — St. Joseph, Rowena immigration Details, Pg. 5

VATICAN CITY — People will reform at Our SAN ANGELO TX 76902-1829 TX ANGELO SAN not find Jesus by hanging out in Lady of SAN OF DIOCESE ANGELO first-class lounges or in the library, Sorrows but by being out and about in the Church in the 1829 BOX PO real world and in prayer, Pope Corona neigh- borhood of Francis said. the New York And following him will not be borough of easy because "Jesus creates prob- Queens Sept. lems," the pope said Sept. 26 during 8. (CNS his morning Mass in his residence Photo) of the Domus Sanctae Marthae. "You can't know Jesus without getting involved with him, without Bishops issue immigration statement betting your life on him," he said. A message from the Bishops of the Gathered together in our second According to the day's Gospel border regions of Mexico, Texas and assembly of the current year, we have reading in Luke, King Herod want- New Mexico to Catholics and to men shared our preoccupation over the situa- ed to know this man who was and women of good will. tion affecting millions of undocumented called a prophet.

persons who migrate to the United POSTAGE US PAID

NONPROFIT ORG. NONPROFIT SAN ANGELO, TX ANGELO, SAN People were beginning to be "I have seen the affliction States. In particular we are deeply con- 44 NO. PERMIT afraid of this man "because he may of my people" (Ex. 3,7). cerned about the burden affecting so bring about political strife with the many families who have found them- Romans" and cause problems, the The Bishops from the border regions selves divided because of the lack of a pope said. of Mexico, Texas and New Mexico greet suitable and Comprehensive Immigration Well, "Jesus creates problems," he all of you, wishing you peace and every good thing in the Lord Jesus. Please See STATEMENT/18) (Please See POPE/14) Page 2 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus FROM THE BISHOP’S DESK Mary, Mother of God: A model disciple for the Year of Faith

By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI rupted with the news that His mother and brothers (Luke1: 38) This would be the theme song of her were outside wishing to speak with him. Jesus life. God bestowed on Mary, a humble peasant girl replied: “For whoever does the will of my Father, Mary’s discipleship is a model for all of us, of Nazareth, the greatest title ever given to a is my brother and sister and mother.” (Matthew especially as we strive to live out the Year of human being – Mother of God. This first and 12: 50) The great St. Augustine, when he reflect- Faith. This humble peasant girl not only believed greatest title given to Mary by the Church, comes ed on these words of Jesus, which at first might and said yes to God’s Word, but she acted on it. from various references in Sacred Scripture and seem to be a rebuke, quickly tells us that Jesus Immediately after receiving the news about this wonderful mother of Jesus Christ, the God was stressing that His mother was the one who becoming the mother of Christ, Mary set out in Bishop made man, is also our mother. But Mary is first indeed most perfectly fulfilled the Father’s will, haste and traveled to visit her elder relative, Pfeifer our sister in faith, and she is the model disciple and she did this in her role as a faithful and lov- Elizabeth, who was also expecting a child. Mary because she lived her life in total and complete ing disciple, as she became Jesus’ own mother. was bearing Christ, not just for herself, but for a surrender to God, humbly accepting to be the When Mary was given the astounding and won- world in need. She is indeed the mother of Jesus mother of God’s incarnate Son. The Scriptural drous news that God had chosen her to be the not so much because she is his physical mother, references on Mary most often portray her not mother of Christ, the long awaited Messiah, Mary but because she is the one who listens to the just as the mother of Jesus, but as a totally trust- who had many questions and not all the answers, Word of God and acts on it. During her visit to ing and believing disciple. surrendered herself totally in humility and trust to her kinswoman, Elizabeth proclaimed Mary Once when Jesus was teaching, He was inter- her God: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. blessed because she believed God’s Word would Let it be done to me according to your Word.” (Please See BISHOP/20) DIOCESAN BRIEFS Youth Ministry 2.0 Training Seminar Annually, World Mission Sunday is celebrated on the The Diocese of San Angelo will present a “Youth next-to-last Sunday in October. As described by Pope Ministry 2.0 Training Seminar from 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Sister Adelina John Paul II, World Mission Sunday is "an important day Saturday, October 19, 2013, at the Newman Center, Garcia, left, and in the life of the Church because it teaches how to give: 2451 Dena Dr., in San Angelo. Cost is $25. Please con- Roselva Ruiz, of as an offering made to God, in the Eucharistic celebra- tact the Diocesan Pastoral Center or the Newman San Miguel tion and for all the missions of the world" (see Center for registration information. Arcangel Parish Redemptoris Missio 81). The guest presenter for the event is Brian Johnson, in Midland, Pope John Paul II has also spoken of the Propagation the Director of Adolescent Catechesis and accepted a of the Faith's General Fund of support, calling this a Evangelization for the Archdiocese of Galveston- tourism and eco- "central fund of solidarity." In a message delivered on a Houston. Brian serves on the board of the National nomic impact recent World Mission Sunday, the Pope said: "The offer- Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry and has a award in San ings that will be collected [on World Mission Sunday] are Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education Angelo for their destined for a common fund of solidarity distributed, in and a Masters in Pastoral Studies from the University of work in the the Pope's name, by the Society for the Propagation of St. Thomas. Region 10 Youth the Faith among the missions and missionaries of the Conference last entire world." Cemetery Cleanup year. (Courtesy On Saturday, October 19, there will be a general photo) Rachel’s Vineyard clean up of Calvary Cemetery in San Angelo. All flowers Region 10 Catholic Youth Conference Because of the tender mercy of our God, the rising and decorations will be removed from the graves. Also sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living all unauthorized fencing and brick/stone/wire borders of recognized by Angelo Visitors’ Bureau in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our any kind, including any items covering the grave such as SAN ANGELO — The San Angelo Visitors’ Bureau feet into the path of peace. white rocks, outdoor carpet, lights, etc. will be removed. held a luncheon September 10, 2013, and presented — Reflections from Footprints; Luke 1:78-79 awards to the organizers of three conventions that If you have anything that you do not want thrown away Come experience the tender mercy of Jesus Christ. by the cleanup crew, please come and pick it up by made a significant impact on the local economy and tourism. The largest convention was the Region 10 Let Him shine on the darkness and pain of your abor- Friday, October 18. On Sunday, October 20, you may tion. Join us on our next Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat, place arrangements back on the graves. Catholic Youth Conference. Others recognized were the Texas High School Gymnastics State Meet and Nov. 15-17, 2013, Lubbock, TX. the Texas Taxidermy Association Convention. Sister For more information: [email protected] or 806- ‘An American Movement,’ Veteran’s Day 577-5912. At 12:00 noon on Veterans Day, Monday, November Adelina Garcia, OSF and Roselva Ruiz (San Miguel- Retreats are strictly confidential and open to men and 11, 2013, the Frontline Faith Project is sponsoring the Odessa) were on hand to receive the award for the second annual “An American Moment” and is requesting Region 10 Youth Ministry. Roselva was one of the women of all faiths. that all Americans take a moment of silent prayer to coordinators of the local committee. Approximately thank our military for their service, to pray for the peace- 1,600 participants brought in about $800,000 to the Sign up for DOSAMail ... it’s free ful repose of those who have died, and to pray for the city. Don’t wait until the Angelus is dropped in your mailbox intentions of those still living. During that moment of each month. Get it in your inbox, and also receive week- silence, I am asking that we all pray for world peace and World Mission Sunday ly — and “as needed” — updates from the Diocese of that the Prince of Peace bring an end to war and terror- World Mission Sunday, organized by the Propagation San Angelo. It’s easy. Visit www.flocknote.com/dosamail ism that pervades our world today. Please join this of the Faith, is a day set aside for Catholics worldwide to for the free sign-up process. national effort. Thank you. God’s peace. recommit themselves to the Church's missionary activity — Bishop Pfeifer through prayer and sacrifice. In 2013, World Mission Sunday is celebrated on October 20. The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 3 DIOCESAN DATES Bishop’s Calendar 15-16 — Fall Clergy Conference OCTOBER 19 — Deacon Formation 13 — JUNCTION, St, Theresa 19 — San Angelo Cursillo – Confirmation at 9:00 a.m. School of Leaders 15-16 — SAN ANGELO, Christ 21 — Heart of Mercy Prayer the King Retreat Center – Priests Group Fall Convocation 22 — Adoration 17 — ODESSA, Holy 24-27 — Women’s Walk to Angelus editor in Jordan to report on refugees Redeemer – 20TH Anniversary Emmaus Adoration Chapel Mass at 6:30 28 — Heart of Mercy Prayer p.m. Group By Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer Bishops. I fully support the efforts of this wonderful and 19 — SAN ANGELO, Newman 29 — Adoration of the Blessed generous organization, and the people of the diocese have Center – Presentation for Youth Sacrament As you read this, Jimmy Patterson, the editor of the been generous to CRS for many years. 10-4 31 — Red Mass with Bishop West Texas Angelus, will be in the refugee towns of While in Jordan, Jimmy will also visit with representatives 21 — ABILENE, Sacred Heart Pfeifer Jordan to cover the plight of the over 1 million Syrian from CRS and priests in the Church in Jordan. I ask for your – Confirmation at 6:30 p.m. 31 — Anglican Church of the prayers during his visit to this tense, war-torn region. Good Shepherd Diocesan Synod children and their families who have been forced to flee 22 — SAN ANGELO, their homeland because of a civil war The November issue of the West Texas Angelus will Presbyteral Council at 11:00 a.m. NOVEMBER that has disrupted life for so many contain a number of articles on the children and families 23-24 — SAN ANTONIO, 75th that are affected by the violence in the region. Anniversary of Our Lady of Grace 1 — Observance of all Saints innocent people. Parish Day Jimmy’s visit, October 4-12, is being Jimmy will also write a blog during his time overseas. 25-26 — FORT WORTH, Holy 1-2 — Anglican Church of the sponsored by an anonymous West You can keep up with his reports at http://jimmylpatter- Sepulchre Meeting Good Shepherd Diocesan Synod Texas businessman concerned about the son.blogspot.com/. 27-28 — EDINBURG – Sister’s 4 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp plight of the children, who are often CRS is providing more than 140,000 Syrian refugees Birthday 5 — Adoration across the region with urgent medical assistance, food, shel- 7-10 — San Angelo Women’s being denied a proper education 29 — BIG SPRING, Holy Trinity because of having been uprooted from ter, living supplies, hygiene, counseling and education for – Confirmation at 6:30 p.m. ACTS 11 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Patterson their homes. children. The organization’s response is comprehensive: Grp Jimmy will be hosted by Catholic to address people's needs to survive and live in dignity. NOVEMBER Medical care helps fix bullet wounds, addresses the 1 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred 11 — Veterans Day Relief Services and will travel with an assistant and pho- Heart Cathedral – All Saints Day 12 — San Angelo ACTS Core tographer during his week in the refugee towns. He will ongoing needs of pregnant women and children, and Mass at 8:30 a.m. Meeting return to the diocese with a number of stories on the con- treats chronic illnesses in elderly people. Soap and water 2 — SAN ANGELO Calvary 12 — Adoration of the Blessed ditions these many refugees face for the West Texas purifiers help families stay clean and prevent the spread Cemetery – All Souls Day Mass at Sacrament Angelus, the Midland Reporter-Telegram and the of disease. Vouchers allow parents to buy food and other 11:00 a.m. 16 — Deacon Formation Catholic Relief Services web site, www.crs.org. supplies in the local markets. And trauma counseling and 3 — SAN ANGELO, St. Joseph 17 — CKRC Confirmation education for children help them return to a semblance of Retreat Catholic Relief Services is the global humanitarian –Pro Life Mass at 11:15 am relief effort of the United States Conference of Catholic normalcy. 5 — SAN ANGELO, Meeting 18 — Heart of Mercy Prayer with CPS at 10:30 a.m. Group 6 — CRANE, Good Shepherd – 19 — Adoration of the Blessed Del Escritorio del Obispo Confirmation at 6: 30 pm Sacrament 8 — SAN ANGELO, Diocesan 22-24 — Beginning Experience Pastoral Center – 8:30 a.m. Staff 23 — San Angelo Cursillo Maria, una discipula modela para el ano de fe and 11:00 a.m. Staff meeting School of Leaders 25 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Por el Obispo Miguel Pfeifer, Dios. Las referencias escritúrales Jesús. Cuando se le daba a María 10-15 — WASHINGTON, OMI de María la caracterizan muy a la noticia asombrosa y maravillosa USCCB Meeting Group 16-17 — HOUSTON, St. Mary’s 26 — Adoration of the Blessed Dios otorgó en María, una menudo no solamente como la que Dios la había escogido como Seminary – Administer Ministry of Sacrament humilde campesina de Nazaret, el madre de Jesús, pero como una madre de Cristo, el tan anhelado Acolyte 28-Dec 1 Office closed for the título más grande discípula totalmente llena de fe y Mesías, María quien tenía muchas 21-24 — INDIANAPOLIS, Thanksgiving Holiday dado jamás a un confianza. preguntas y no todas las respuestas, National Federal Youth Workshop DECEMBER ser humano— Una vez, cuando Jesús estaba se entregó totalmente en humildad 25 — SAN ANGELO, St. Madre de Dios. enseñando, Él fue interrumpido y confianza a su Dios: “Yo soy la Margaret – Ecumenical 2 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp Thanksgiving Service at 6:30 p.m. 3 — Adoration Este primer y con las nuevas de que su mamá y esclava del Señor, que Dios haga 28 — SAN ANGELO, Sacred 8 — Immaculate Conception más grande título sus hermanos estaban afuera que- conmigo como me has dicho.” Heart Cathedral – Thanksgiving 9 — Immaculate Conception dado a María por riendo hablar con él. Jesús dijo: (Luke 1:38) Este sería el tema de la Day Mass at 9:00 a.m. Celebrated la Iglesia, viene “Porque cualquiera que hace la canción de su vida. 29-30 — Rest and Prayer 9 — Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp 10 — Bishop Pfeifer’s de varias referen- voluntad de mi Padre que está en el El discipulado de María es un Christmas Party for the cias en la cielo, ése es mi hermano, mi her- modelo para todos nosotros, espe- Obispo mana y mi madre.” (Mateo 12:50) cialmente al esforzarnos a vivir el Christ the King Clergy Sagrada 14 — Deacon Formation Escrituras y esta Miguel Pfeifer El gran San Agustín, al reflejar en Año de Fe. Esta humilde Retreat Center maravillosa madre OMI estas palabras de Jesús, las cuales campesina no solamente creó y de Jesucristo, el Dios hecho hom- primeramente parecían ser un dijo “sí” a la Palabra de Dios, sino OCTOBER NECROLOGY 11-13 — Engaged Encounter NOVEMBER bre, también es nuestra madre. reproche, rápidamente nos dice que más bien ella actúo sobre ella. 13 — NFP/Natural Family Pero primeramente, María es nues- Jesús estaba enfatizando que su Inmediatamente al recibir las noti- Planning 10-Rev. James Coleman (2002) tra hermana en fe, y es la discípula madre era ciertamente quien más cias acerca de que llegaría a ser la 14 — Heart of Mercy Prayer 19-Rev. Frank Zimmermann, modelo porque ella vivió su vida perfectamente cumplía la voluntad madre de Cristo, María se fue de Grp C.M. (1999) 14 — Deacon Quarterly en completa y totalmente entrega a de Dios, e hizo esto en su papel prisa a visitar a su parienta 23-Rev. Colm Mulligan MSC Dios, humildemente aceptando ser como una fiel y amorosa discípula, Meeting (2003) 15 — Adoration la madre del hijo encarnado de al llegar a ser la misma madre de (Mira OBISPO/20) Page 4 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus SEMINARIAN OF THE MONTH

Bala Govidnu Assumption Seminary

Full Name: Bala Anthony Govidnu Date of Birth/ Age: 12.21.1982 (30) Birth Place: Kadapa, A.P. India Do you have siblings/ only child? 2 sisters, 1 brother What Seminary do you attend? Assumption Seminary, San Antonio What Level are you? I Govidnu am entering into 4-year theology What led you to enter into formation as a Seminarian? I was born to Showry and Francisamma Govindu in Mariapuram vil- lage in Kadapa district. My village is one of the largest Catholic villages in our dio- cese. Now, the village has become a big town. My parents are staunch Catholics Parishes to take up collection for San Pedro Sula, Nov. 2-3 and both came from strong Catholic fami- lies. I have received deep faith from my The parishes in the Diocese of San Angelo parents. It is my mother who taught me will take up a special collection for the prayers. She was illiterate. We always Diocese of San Pedro Sula in Honduras, on have family prayer in my house. We the weekend of November 2 and 3, 2013. prayed the rosary every evening. The These two dioceses have been engaged in a parish church was close to my church and partnership, called the “Hermanamiento,” I went to church every day and I was an since 2001. Our two dioceses are in com- altar server. At the age of 13 I had a munion with each other in the Catholic strong desire to become a priest an d this Church and we have the same mission of desire was strengthened by nuns and proclaiming the gospel, celebrating the sacra- parishioners who said to me that I would ments, and serving the community. The make a goods priest. I have a deep love donations of Catholics in the Diocese of San of God and strong devotion to Mother Angelo assist the Diocese of San Pedro Sula Mary. Having completed my college, I in its many pastoral works. In July, representatives of the Diocese of Bishop entered St. Joseph’s Society of Mill Hill Garachana, Missionaries in 2000 to become a mis- San Angelo attended the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Diocese of San above, explains sionary priest. I hold degrees in Bachelor the significance of Philosophy and Bacher of Arts. Being Pedro Sula. The first activity they participat- of the dedication with the missionaries for ten years has ed in was the dedication of a new wing of of this new build- strengthened my faith and my conviction “Buen Samaritano” (“Good Samaritan”), a ing to care for to become a priest. care center for profoundly handicapped chil- extremely handi- As part of my mission experience I went dren. The new facility doubles the size of capped children to Uganda and Kenya. While I was in 3rd the care center and will even accommodate and led the bless- year theology in Kenya I discerned to be a volunteers who come to help the nuns serve ing. diocesan priest. My rector asked me to go the children, many of whom are unable to to Australia to join a diocese there but I walk or care for themselves in any way. The Monsignor Larry told him I needed to pray about it. diocesan bishop, Monseñor Angel Droll, represent- Garachana, noted that the celebration of 50 ing the Meanwhile, I contacted Fr. Prem who Hermanamiento asked me to apply to the Diocese of San years in not just a time to remember the past, but to serve the needs of people in the pres- with the Diocese Angelo. I did, and was accepted in 2011. I of San Angelo, came to the Diocese of San Angelo on ent and future. Buen Samaritano is an exam- ple of this. was invited to July 3. I did my internship at Sacred Heart plant a bush near Church in Abilene. I am looking forward to Many other pastoral works in San Pedro Sula and its parishes will benefit from the the new fountain my diaconal ordination and my priestly in Buen ordination. special collection taken up in the Diocese of San Angelo, November 2 and 3, 2013. Samaritano. The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 5 FALL FESTIVALS Syncretism and the new OCTOBER 13 hungry. Hours are 6-9 pm. The silent St. Boniface Church — Olfen auction will continue until the follow- OLFEN — The Olfen St. Boniface ing day, bidding ends at 6:30 pm, American paganism Fall Festival will be held Sunday, Sunday. Entry into this “Spooktacular” October 13th at the St.Boniface event is a simple bag of candy per By Fr. Knick Knickerbocker combining various Christian teachings and practices Parish hall in Olfen. There will be family or household but you’re wel- St. Theresa Church-Junction with various teachings and practices of American no 11:00 am Mass at St. Boniface come to bring more!! This is the orga- Paganism. From time to time some Catholics will Church on this date. A homemade nization’s biggest fundraiser, please Syncretism is the attempt to combine tenets of attempt a similar kind of syncretization. However, sausage, turkey/ dressing meal will join us for a wonderful time that pro- another religion with the Christian faith. This pres- the Catholic Church recognizes that this syncretiza- be served from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. vides a safe environment for your kids. ents a significant problem for the Catholic Church. tion is not possible. It is a futile attempt to reconcile with drive through plates-to-to and conflicting beliefs and morality. drive through sausage sales avail- OCTOBER 26 While the Catholic Church recognizes that there can able. St. Mary’s — Odessa be truth in other religions, and the But there is more. This American Paganism has Homemade sausage may be pre- The St. Mary’s Fall Festival will be Christian faith can claim that truth now become the established state religion in the ordered/ pre-paid by mail: to St. on October 26 at St. Mary's Church and show how it can be integrated United States of America. The First Amendment of Boniface Sausage, 2817 Briargrove, grounds from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. There in Christianity, there can never be the Constitution is referenced often today because it San Angelo, TX. 76904 and available will be entertainment, games, food a syncretization of Christian truth guarantees that Congress shall make no law prohibit- for pick up the day of the festival. and fun, not to mention BINGO!! with falsehood. The fact of the ing the "free exercise" of religion. We should Sausage will sell for $4.00 per pound. For more info, call 432-332-5334 Incarnation guides the Catholic remember also that the first part of this Amendment Meal prices are $8.00 for adults and Church as she seeks to determine says, "Congress shall make no law respecting an $5.00 for children (under 10 years of OCTOBER 27, 2013 establishment of religion." However, with the adop- age). All plates-to-go will be $8.00. St. Ann Catholic Church -- Sonora what is true and what is false in There will be a live auction at 1 p.m., “Fiesta y Tardiada” other religions. In the Incarnation Knickerbocker tion of the Affordable Health Care Act, the refusal of candy drop at 3 p.m., games for the 11am—6 pm Sunday Everyone the Son of God, the Second Person the Supreme Court to declare it unconstitutional, and children, Bingo, Country Store and welcome! Food booths, games, silent of the Holy Trinity, entered human life, and, since its interpretation by the Executive Branch, this concessions and sausage sandwich- auction and activities on the church human life is too small to hold the Divine, the Son American Paganism has become the state mandated es in the afternoon. For more infor- grounds at 311 W. Plum in Sonora. of God took our humanity into Himself and perfect- religion of the United States of America. The mation, contact St. Boniface Church Raffle drawing for prizes at 5pm. ed it. In like manner, the Catholic Church incarnates Executive Branch says this Act requires employers at 325-442-2893. Music and dancing 4-6pm. human culture, and, since every human culture, to provide health insurance that includes contracep- Only one Mass Oct. 27 at 10am. including the religions of that culture, is too small to tives, abortifacient drugs, and sterilization. This OCTOBER 19 Festival Queen will be announced requirement violates the conscience of many St. Ann’s — Colorado City during Mass. hold the Catholic Church, the Catholic Church takes St. Ann's Colorado City holds its Homemade sausage available, tak- human culture into herself, winnowing the wheat Christians and clearly opposes the teachings of the Fall Festival this year on October 19. ing orders in advance at church from the chaff. Unless the fact of the Incarnation Catholic Church. This act and its interpretation by office; contact 325-387-2278. guides our approach to another religion, an ill-fated the Executive Branch means that the political state OCTOBER 20 syncretism occurs that denies the unique revelation claims the right to determine good and evil, right and ST. AMBROSE/HOLY FAMILY — OCTOBER 27 of God in Jesus Christ. wrong, truth and falsehood. This act and its interpre- WALL Oktober Fiesta At this time in our American culture the Catholic tation follows in the wake of the 1973 Supreme The 74th St Ambrose/Holy Family Angelo Catholic School Church is confronted with a particular form of Court decision that made the right to abortion the Fall Festival will be held on Sunday ACS family, friends and faculty will American Paganism. This American Paganism has law of the land. This act and its interpretation clearly October 20th in Wall, Texas. hold their primary fundraiser, shows the paganism of the federal government and is German Sausage and Turkey “Oktober Fiesta,” 10 a.m.-3 p.m., similarities to the ancient fertility cults confronted by Dinner will be served from 11 am to October 27, 2315 A&M, Holy Angels the Israelites in Old Testament times and similarities the equivalent of the requirement in pagan Rome for 2 pm with Plates to Go also avail- Parish Hall and the ACS Campus. to the ancient paganism of Greece and Rome. Like its citizens to burn incense before a statue of the able. Adult plates are $8 and All will enjoy the many Midway the ancient fertility cults, American Paganism ele- emperor, acknowledging that, whatever religion one Children’s plates are $5. German games. Children can take a barrel vates the sexual act to a place of supreme importance. might claim, the final authority in the determination Sausage will be available for sale. ride, bowl, golf, and fish, along with Unlike them American Paganism focuses on the sup- of good and evil, right and wrong, truth and false- Starting at 4 pm Sausage other exciting booths. Food serving posed happiness the sexual act brings apart from the hood was the Roman emperor. Sandwiches will also be sold. begins at 10 am in the cafeteria: fertility that results in the procreation of children. On June 26, the Supreme Court continued its Games will be from 10:30 to 4:30 BBQ prepared by Knights of Like any Paganism, this American Paganism has its affirmation of this American Paganism as the state which includes Bingo from 12 pm to Columbus. Take-out orders available, established religion by striking down part of the 4 pm, Inflatables, and various other all plates $8. Live auction at 12:30 own pantheon of gods and goddesses. At the top of games There will be a Market with p.m. The festival, sponsored by the this pantheon is an American version of the Greek Defense of Marriage Act and refusing to rule on the homemade goodies and a Quilt Oktober Fiesta Committee and sup- goddess Aphrodite, the goddess of love, who has merits of a challenge to California's Proposition 8. Auction. Live Music provided by ported by the Home and School become simply a goddess of sex. She gives her name The justices of the court have either intentionally Dovetail. Association, raises funds for our to the aphrodisiacs that are advertised in all our affirmed that this American Paganism is the state The Cotton and Merchandise school. Money raised helps HSA media. Using her Roman name, Venus, she names established religion or are unable to make the con- Auction will begin at 1:30 pm sponsor events and enhance the the various diseases that are prevalent among her nection among the various pieces of legislation and There is a shuttle bus available from academic and spiritual education of devotees. Like any god or goddess, she demands her court decisions that together establish this religion. Wall School from 8 am to 3 pm. For our children. Oktober Fiesta is the sacrifices: marriages ending in divorce, birth preven- As a Christian, I will pray for the Justices and for more information, contact St. Ambrose primary fundraiser for Angelo members of Congress and the Executive Branch. I Parish Office at 325-651-7551. Catholic School. Your support is the tion by contraception, babies in the wombs of their key to its success!! For additional mothers, physical health and psychological health, will pray that they will see the connections among OCTOBER 26 information or questions, contact the and gender in transgenderism. Any sexual act pleas- these pieces of legislation and the court decisions St. Stephen — Midland Oktober Fiesta Committee. es her as long as it is done without the possibility of that have done this and will take action to disestab- The St. Stephens’s Women’s procreating children: masturbation, adultery, homo- lish this American Paganism. In any case, as a Organization Annual Fall Festival is NOVEMBER 10 sexuality, lesbianism. She encourages so-called Catholic I must oppose this American Paganism, October 26. We will have a Silent St. Joseph’s— Rowena same-sex marriages and pornography. oppose its establishment as our state religion, and Auction, Baked Goods and Craft 91st ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL As Christians encounter this pervasive American oppose attempts to syncretize this American Store, a costume contest, cake “The best journey always leads us Paganism, some attempt to combine various tenets of Paganism with Christianity. wheel and lots of fun and booths for to home and family. More informa- children. Food and drinks, so come tion, Page 13 this Paganism with Christianity. Some Protestant denominations have developed a syncretic religion Page 6 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus Illicit child pornography business is exploding By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI suspected child pornography. of broken lives, fractured families and the play in addressing this evil, through The growth of the wireless industry has trafficking and exploitation of our pre- teaching, preaching and by calling people White Ribbon Against Pornography benefited us all in terms of increased con- cious young people. to live according to Christian values. We (WRAP) is a major promoter of a week— nectivity and access to information, but it What can be done to deal with this per- must continue to educate and empower October 27-November3—dedicated to also provides an instant and mobile distri- vasive moral cancer that exploits the most parents to deal with this moral cancer. educating people, especially the young, bution system for pornographic material. innocent among us—children and infants? We are followers of Christ and should on the harm and evil of pornography. The consumption of this material is driv- Thus far, the government seems reluctant begin to take the necessary steps to Reports from many different sources ing demand for even more commercial to take steps to address this issue, so fam- address this ever-growing evil that is cor- indicate that child pornography is explod- sex in our nation and around the globe. ilies must be on the frontline of attack to rupting our society. Prayer is our most ing as the internet’s use has become more Child porn has grown so pervasive on the overcome this tremendous evil. Christian powerful tool and parents need to pray commonplace. Computer analysts at the Internet that many police agencies using parents are called to respect children and and discuss with their children about the National Center for Missing and the latest tracking-technology could spend protect them from this growing evil. evil of pornography and how to protect Exploited Children in Alexandria, VA, most of their time just arresting offenders. Families need to join with other families them from this great evil. indicated not long ago that they investi- There is a vital connection between the to talk about and address this ever-grow- gated some 2,000 reports in a week of consumption of porn and the tragic reality ing evil. Churches have a major role to Hahn, Madrid, Kreeft, others instruct Catholics on how to defend faith from ignorance By Thomas Shows Holy Family Church-Abilene

STUEBENVILLE, Ohio — This past July I went to a conference with a friend. It was called Defending The Faith, held at Franciscan University in Steubenville, Ohio. We were fortunate enough to have many great Catholic writers and thinkers present such as Scott Hahn, Patrick Madrid, and Peter Kreeft. After much time and reflection of my experience, I've come to real- ize that this call to defending our faith is a call to defend it from igno- rance. It’s a call to defend it from the misconceptions and erroneous ideas that our friends, family, and culture maintain about us as Catholics. This is a fight we should all take up without exception. Order of Ecumenical Franciscan Sister Adelina Garcia, left; Sister Kathy Kudlac, second from left People do not know what we believe. Worse yet, many Catholics may and Sister Hilda Marotta, right, with San Angelo Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI. not know what we believe! This is our faith, our lives, and our beliefs that we are defending here and we should know what it is that we Franciscan sisters celebrate 100 years in US believe before we can defend it. The Angelus benefactors who filled the Virginia, Oregon, Texas and "Be Not Afraid.” This was a powerful statement from Blessed John chapel and later joined in a Arizona. Paul II and it remains true today. Even if we feel inadequate or unwor- PITTSBURGH, Penn. — festive meal in the dining The global outreach of the thy because we are unsure of what the church teaches, we must still On August 15, 2013, the room. congregation of the School stand up for the truth and for what is right. We cannot be intimidated or Feast of the Assumption, the After a journey of 18 days Sisters of St. Francis afraid to become catechists, apologists, and bearers of the truth. This is School Sisters of St. Francis at sea on the Pretoria six pio- includes Italy, Czech not only our right as Catholics, but it's also our duty as Christians. We from the United States neer Sisters of Czech, Slovak Republic, Slovak Republic, are called to spread the word of Christ to parts of the world that do not Province celebrated their and German origin arrived in South America, South Africa, know Him yet. In my short time away from the seminary, I've learned 100th Anniversary of their New York on August 15, Central Asia, and India. that these "parts of the world" that do not know Him are often right presence and ministry in the 1913 and in Pittsburgh, Penn. Remaining ever grateful here in our very own homes and communities. I would often hear sto- United States. The celebra- by train on August 18, 1913. for the past 100 years and ries about Mother Teresa turning young girls away, sending them back tion was held at Queen of the Thus began the presence of mindful of the sacrifices home to serve there instead of in India. She would tell them to be the Angels Chapel at Mount the School Sisters of St. made by the pioneer sisters best at what they do whether that is being the best mother, daughter, Assisi Convent in Pittsburgh, Francis in the United States. who came to the United friend, or wife. We too should do the best we can with all the love in Penn. Bishop David Zubik They left behind all they States, today the School our hearts that we can muster. So, when we speak to people and correct of the Diocese of Pittsburgh knew in Europe to respond to Sisters of St. Francis contin- them about what the church says or teaches we must do it with love, was the main celebrant and the need to minister to the ue their commitment to and from that love, we should strive to learn as much as we can about was joined by Bishop Eastern European immigrants addressing the challenges of what we believe. I remember an old Christian precept that says, pray as Michael Pfeifer, OMI, in Pennsylvania with their the present times. They you can, not as you want. I believe the same goes here for us Bishop of the Diocese of San work expanding to many stand firm in their commit- Catholics. If we wish to defend our faith, we must first bring it to Angelo. Joining area priests places in the United States ment to keep the spirit and prayer. We must defend it through prayer and we must also defend our were friends, relatives and including New Jersey, joy of St. Francis alive in the (Please See CONFERENCE/21) Massachusetts, Ohio, West world today. The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 7 Planned Parenthood gone, but pro-life mission far from over By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI A sign company To continue to worker removes carry out our pro- In late August, we were given the welcome news that the Planned life mission, I ask Planned Parenthood, both in Midland and in San Angelo, Parenthood of not only our Texas were closing their doors, and almost a year ago, we Midland sign one priests, but also day recently. The women religious, also received the same good news that Planned Parenthood abortion facility in Abilene had also closed its doors. Planned Parenthood in ceased operations deacons, and all Midland did surgical abortions, and Planned Parenthood in on August 30, pastoral leaders to Abilene and San Angelo did chemical abortions. Whether by 2013, the same day map out specific surgical or medical means, Planned Parenthood was killing Planned pastoral ways of the precious unborn in three of the major cities in our Parenthood of how we will assist Diocese—Midland, Abilene, and San Angelo. While we West Texas closed women with their thank God for the closing of these three death centers, we its doors in San health care needs are reminded that our pro-life mission is far from over. Angelo. and especially The closing of these three death centers means that the those who are Diocese of San Angelo is free from all Planned Parenthood (Courtesy photo dealing with a by Mike pregnancy deci- centers. We thank God for this special gift, and I thank Hernandez.) God for our many pro-lifers who have prayed, especially sion. We have in for the many rosaries prayed in front of Planned our Diocese some Parenthood, and worked for the closure of these three cen- Pregnancy and ters that killed the precious unborn through abortion. This is and their children with their health care needs and especial- Life Centers that are already reaching out to women and indeed a very beautiful blessing from God, for which we ly to help those who are struggling with an abortion deci- their families, in Abilene, San Angelo, Midland, Odessa and need to be thankful, and it is a time for us first and fore- sion. Now is the time to give a new emphasis to our entire Andrews. In a special way, I am asking that all of our most to get down on our knees and to plead for God’s for- pro-life ministry, and as I have done so already in person priests and Pro-Life Committee members, along with all giveness for the evil done by these centers—killing thou- and through my preaching and teaching, I ask all of our Catholic organizations, especially the Knights of Columbus, sands of precious unborn, made in the very image and like- priests and all the Catholic people of our Diocese to step Catholic Daughters, Cursillistas and ACTS people, to step ness of God. And, as we give thanks to God for hearing forward and help these women and families with their forward and provide social, spiritual, emotional, and finan- our prayers, we also thank the recent Texas legislation that many health needs, especially women who are struggling cial assistance to the Pregnancy Help Centers and Life wisely cut off funding to so-called health centers in the with a pregnancy decision. As part of our service for help- Centers in our communities, especially helping them to set state of Texas that do abortions. Pregnancy is not an illness, ing women and families with their health needs, be they up special facilities for doing pregnancy and STD testing. and killing babies is never part of any type of health serv- emotional, psychological, financial, pastoral or spiritual, I As part of our service for helping women and families ice. Hopefully our prayers and our pro-life good works and ask all of our Catholic Churches to put in their bulletins with their health needs — be they physical, emotional, this new legislation will bring about the closure of all these that our doors are open to provide these services. We also financial, psychological, pastoral or spiritual — I ask all of death centers of abortion throughout the state of Texas, and ask doctors, nurses, health and social workers and other our Catholic Churches throughout the Diocese to put in the entire USA. volunteers of our Catholic parishes to offer their profession- their bulletins that our doors are open to provide these serv- As we thank God for these closures of Planned al skills and talents to the Pregnancy Help Center, Life ices. I also strongly encourage doctors, nurses, health and Parenthood, we are also reminded that our pro-life mission Centers, and organizations that assist women. I am asking social workers of our Catholic parishes to step forward and is far from over. As followers of Jesus, our mission is to the priests of the city and throughout the deanery to contin- offer their professional skills to the Pregnancy Help and show respect for all human life, from its beginning at con- ue to map out in writing clear pastoral ways our parishes Life Centers that we have in San Angelo, Midland, Odessa, ception, throughout life, and until that life is taken back to will be helping women with their health needs. As we reach Andrews and Abilene. And I continue to ask my brother God through natural death. With the closure of Planned out to help these sisters in Christ, we need to also promote priests, as they meet each month, to map out clear pastoral Parenthood, now is the time for all of our priests and pro- very strongly the idea of adoption. There are scores of cou- ways our parishes will be stepping forward to help life people to show that we are truly pro-life by fulfilling a ples who are waiting to adopt every innocent baby who is women with their health needs. We continue with our spe- major part of our pro-life mission, which is to assist women destroyed through abortion. (Please See PRO-LIFE/21) Planned Parenthood se ha ido, pero nuestra mision de pro-vida no se ha terminado Por el Obispo Miguel Pfeifer, OMI estos tres centros de muerte, nos recordamos que perdón por la maldad que estos centros centros de muerte de Planned Parenthood, tam- nuestra misión de pro-vida está lejos de ser ter- cometieron—la matanza de miles de preciosos bién recordamos que nuestra misión de pro-vida En los últimos días de agosto, se nos dieron las minada. no nacidos, hechos a la misma imagen y seme- está lejos de ser terminada. Como seguidores de bien recibidas noticias que Planned Parenthood, La cerradura de estos tres centros de muerte janza de Dios. Y, al darle gracias a Dios por pro-vida de Jesús, nuestra misión es la de en ambos lugares de Midland y en San Ángelo, significa que la Diócesis de San Ángelo está haber escuchado nuestras oraciones, también le demostrar respeto por toda vida humana, desde Texas, cerraban sus puertas, y casi un año anteri- libre de todos los centros de Planned damos las gracias a la reciente legislación de su principio en concepción, a través de la vida, y or, también recibimos las mismas buenas noti- Parenthood. Le damos gracias a Dios por este Texas que sabiamente cortó fondos a los tal lla- hasta que esa vida sea regresada a Dios por cias que Planned Parenthood en Abilene también regalo, y doy gracias por nuestra mucha gente mados centros de salud en el estado de Texas medio de la muerte natural. Con la cerradura de había cerrado sus puertas. Planned Parenthood que es pro-vida quienes han rezado, especial- que hacen abortos. El embarazo no es una enfer- Planned Parenthood, hoy es el tiempo para todos en Midland hacía abortos quirúrgicos, y Planned mente los muchos rosarios rezados en frente de medad, y la matanza de bebes nunca es parte de nuestros sacerdotes y personas que son pro-vida Parenthood en Abilene y San Ángelo hacían Planned Parenthood, y trabajaron por la cerradu- cualquier tipo de servicio de salud. de demostrar que somos realmente pro-vida por abortos químicos. Ya sean abortos por medios ra de estos tres centros que mataban al precioso Esperanzadamente nuestras oraciones y nuestro medio de cumplir una parte mayor de nuestra quirúrgicos o químicos, Planned Parenthood no nacido por medio del aborto. Esta cierta- buen trabajo de pro-vida y esta nueva legislación misión de pro-vida, la cual es la de asistir a mataba a los preciosos no nacidos en tres ciu- mente es una bendición maravillosa de Dios, por traerán cerradura a todos estos centros de muerte mujeres y sus niños con sus necesidades de dades mayores de la Diócesis de San Ángelo— la cual debemos estar agradecidos, y ahora es el de aborto por todo el estado de Texas, y por cuidado de salud y especialmente ayudar a Midland, Abilene, y San Ángelo. Mientras le tiempo para que nosotros primeramente y antes todos los EE.UU. quienes están luchando con una decisión de damos las gracias a Dios por la cerradura de de nada de arrodillarnos y rogarle a Dios su Al darle gracias a Dios por la cerradura de estos (Mira PRO-VIDA/24) Page 8 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus Catholic Voices On litmus tests for Christian discipleship By Ron Rolheiser ination), and for others the single issue is as a whole, gives us a litmus test for dis- endurance, mildness, kindness, generosity, dogmatic (women's ordination, the uncrit- cipleship, this might be its one-line for- faith, and chastity." It is only when we We live today with a lot of polarization, ical acceptance of scripture or of church mulation: Can you love and forgive an these qualities are manifest in our lives both inside of our churches and in society authority, syncretism). But invariably one enemy? that we may understand ourselves as at large. There is something healthy in issue is singled out so as to become the Luke's Gospel makes essentially the walking in true discipleship. this, despite its bitter basis for an ultimate discriminating judg- same point in a different language. There For Paul, the litmus test is not one, sin- underside. Moral out- ment, a litmus test, as to whether some- Jesus challenges us to be compassionate gle moral issue but rather a whole way of rage and anger is in the one else is worthy of religious and moral as our heavenly Father is compassionate living that radiates more charity than self- end an indication of respect. and then goes on to define that compas- ishness, more joy than bitterness, more moral fervor. We still But is this legitimate? Can a single sion as a love, like that of the Father of peace than factionalism, more patience believe in things, in issue become a litmus test? What does the Prodigal Son and Older Brother, that and respect than negative judgment and right and wrong. Jesus say on this? What do the scriptures lets its light shine on the bad as well as gossip, more empathy than anger, and There's virtue in that. say on this? Can one single moral or reli- the good, that reaches out and loves irre- more willingness to sweat the blood of But that being said, gious issue be seen as constituting the spective of what is deserving and what sacrifice than to give into the temptations there is also something very essence, the center, the non-nego- isn't. The litmus test here might be word- of the moment. very unhealthy in our Rolheiser tiable heart of Christian discipleship? ed: Love each other beyond differences This is not to suggest that particular present situation, one within which sin- In a sense, yes, though this must be and beyond what you think is deserving moral, dogmatic, and ecclesial issues are cere people can no longer have a civil and carefully nuanced. As well, each New of love. Do not love just your own kind or not important; some of them are a matter respectful conversation with each other Testament writer formats this in a differ- someone who reciprocates. Embrace in of life and death. But Christian disciple- over certain moral and religious issues ent way: love as widely as God embraces in love. ship is not just about our actions, it's also because each side ultimately disrespects In the Gospel of Matthew the moral The Epistles of Paul capture this in the about our hearts. The essence of Christian the other, convinced that the other has heart of discipleship is articulated by distinction Paul makes between what he discipleship lies in putting on the heart of sold out on some issue that constitutes a Jesus in what we call The Sermon on the calls life in the flesh as opposed to what Christ. Proper morality, defense of truth, litmus test for moral goodness. Inside the Mount. At its center lies this challenge: he calls life in the Spirit. The former, life and life-giving church practices follow church and inside of our civic political Can you love an enemy? Can you truly in the flesh, is characterized by "lewd from that - and, when rooted in that, they processes, invariably, each side, liberal forgive someone who has hurt you? Can conduct, impurity, licentiousness, idolatry, become respectful, forgiving, and loving. and conservative alike, has one issue that you bless someone who has cursed you? sorcery, hostilities, bickering, jealousy, Ronald Rolheiser, a Roman Catholic is its ultimate non-negotiable and which Can you be good to those who have done outbursts of rage, selfish rivalries, dissen- priest and member of the Missionary constitutes the litmus test by which to you harm? Can you forgive a murderer? sions, factionalism, envy, drunkenness, Oblates of Mary Immaculate, is president judge the moral and religious goodness of This challenge is what sets Jesus' moral and orgies." When these exist in our lives, of the Oblate School of Theology in San everyone else. teaching apart from others and gives it its Paul cautions, we may not delude our- Antonio, Texas. He is a community- For some the single issue is a moral one unique character - and its real teeth. This selves into thinking we are living inside builder, lecturer and writer. His books are (abortion, gay marriage, justice for a par- is meant to be the distinguishing mark of of God's spirit. popular throughout the English-speaking ticular group), for others the single issue a follower of Jesus: He or she can love Conversely, life in the Spirit, for Paul, world and his weekly column is carried is an ecclesial practice (church atten- and forgive an enemy. If the Gospel of is characterized by "charity, joy, peace, by more than seventy newspapers world- dance. membership in a particular denom- Matthew, or perhaps the New Testament patience, goodness, long-suffering, wide. As much as you’d like it to be, your life is not about you

By Rev. Robert Barron There is no question that childlessness is on the rise in of Economics weighed in to say that there is a tight corre- Director-Mundelein Seminary the United States. Our birthrate is the lowest in recorded lation between intelligence and childlessness: the smarter history, surpassing even the crash in reproduction that fol- you are, it appears, the less likely you are to have chil- Time Magazine’s recent cover story “The Childfree Life” lowed the economic crash of the 1930’s. We have not yet dren! has generated a good deal of controversy and commentary. reached the drastic levels found in Europe (in Italy, for In accord with the tenor of our time, those who have The photo that graces the cover of the edition pretty much example, one in four women never give birth), but child- opted out of the children game paint themselves, of sums up the argument: a young, fit couple lessness has risen in our country across all ethnic and course, as victims. They are persecuted, they say, by a cul- lounge languidly on a beach and gaze up racial groups, even those that have traditionally put a par- ture that remains relentlessly baby-obsessed and, in the at the camera with blissful smiles—and no ticular premium on large families. What is behind this words of one of the interviewees, “oppressively family- child anywhere in sight. What the editors phenomenon? The article’s author spoke to a variety of centric.” Patricia O’Laughlin, a Los Angeles-based psy- want us to accept is that this scenario is women who had decided not to have children and found a chotherapist, specializes in helping women cope with the not just increasingly a fact in our country, number of different reasons for their decision. Some said crushing expectations of a society that expects them to but that it is morally acceptable as well, a that they simply never experienced the desire for children; reproduce. As an act of resistance, many childless couples lifestyle choice that some people legiti- others said that their careers were so satisfying to them have banded together for mutual support. One such group mately make. Whereas in one phase of the that they couldn’t imagine taking on the responsibility of in Nashville comes together for activities such as “zip-lin- feminist movement, “having it all” meant Barron raising children; still others argued that in an era when ing, canoeing, and a monthly dinner the foodie couple in that a woman should be able to both pursue bringing up a child costs upward of $250,000, they simply the group organizes.” One of their members, Andrea a career and raise a family, now it apparently means a couldn’t afford to have even one baby; and the comedian Reynolds, was quoted as saying, “We can do anything we relationship and a career without the crushing encum- Margaret Cho admitted, bluntly enough, “Babies scare me brance of annoying, expensive, and demanding children. more than anything.” A researcher at the London School (Please See BARRON/23) The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 9 Catholic Voices II An upcoming posthumous honor for a Maryknoll inspiration By Carolyn Woo In these past hundred years, thousands with the sisters to hold on to a few basics. Often with a roadmap not much more Catholic News Service of women would be drawn to form the First, service must be grounded in con- than, "Let us see what God has installed community of Maryknoll sisters working templation, as action without quiet for us" and provisions that amounted to Mother Mary Joseph, a woman with across the world. They have run schools, moments with God can cause us to veer "God will provide," the sisters have whom I shared one year of life together hospitals, senior centers, peace institutes off-track into the dead ends of our insecu- found their next step. on this earth and to and always stood in solidarity with the rities and ambitions. Prayer, I learn, is a Mother Mary Joseph did not always whom I attribute a sig- poorest and those who have no voice. relationship, not only with God, but also have the answers. Paths had to be made. nificant role in my faith Today they serve in two dozen coun- with each other. These relationships can- Some forces would exceed any one orga- formation, will be tries, raising orphans who have lost their not be just good thoughts in our heads, nization's control. She was deeply inducted into the parents to AIDS, reaching out to victims they must be acted out. anguished by the dangers her sisters National Women's Hall of trafficking, caring for the elderly, Second, we must love the people we faced. of Fame in October. accompanying those in prison, advocat- serve and open our minds and hearts to But amid all challenges, uncertainties, Born Mary Josephine ing for the stewardship of the environ- the beauty of their cultures and even their distractions, temptations and suffering, Rogers in 1882 to a ment, and helping people gain a place at religions. Such openness and appreciation Mollie urged only one thing: that we fix large family of Irish the table where their rights and welfare do not diminish our faith in Christ but our eyes on God, knowing that we will Catholics in Boston, Woo can receive due consideration. deepen the mystery of how God mani- find our way. This simple declaration of she attended public school Their qualities, as instructed by "Mother" fests himself, makes his love present and faith has enabled the sisters to serve mil- and earned her degree in zoology from should be "distinguished by Christ-like brings us together as one family. Our lions, to inspire, to build institutions that Smith College in 1905. In 1912, she charity, a limpid simplicity of soul, heroic faith should not close us in but open our build lives. It has conveyed to many a founded the Congregation of Maryknoll generosity, selflessness, unfailing loyalty, arms to welcome and to connect. sense of their worth, dignity and beauty Sisters of St. Dominic, the first American prudent zeal, gracious courtesy, and adapt- "Come, follow me." How many times as children of God. Catholic missionary order of religious able disposition, solid piety and the saving did Mother Mary Joseph hear this call? --- women. Loved by all, she was often grace of a kindly humor." Was this a summons or a reassurance? As Woo is president and CEO of Catholic referred to as "Mother" or "Mollie." I have drawn on 50 years of association God would have it, it is always both. Relief Services. Will we ever learn? Violence still not the pathway to peace By Stephen Kent religious leaders in Europe warned against along with the Grand Catholic News Service intervention. Mufti of Syria, Obama then said he would take no leader of the coun- "We have to do something." That action without the approval of Congress. try's Sunni Muslims, instinctual desire to take action has been Congressional leaders indicated a vote who already ingrained in the American psyche since would be taken in the early weeks of expressed a desire to the Colonial days. September. pray at the Vatican. Yes, we have to do As with previous invasions, interven- Calling for dia- something about the tions and incursions, the calls for a peace- logue and negotia- chemical weapon ful resolution were seen as quaint and dis- tion as conflicts killings in Syria, but regarded as a pleasantry. begin are not some that something cannot Advancements in weaponry since World form of grace to be be more violence. War II have resulted in explosives that can said before the first Once again, we be delivered to a precise location, avoid- shots are fired. It have the urge to ing "collateral damage" (once known as requires an acknowl- resort to violence killing people). Diplomacy is far from edgement of possi- when diplomacy is far showing the same advancement. bility to stop con- from exhausted. Kent If we've been able to make a drone that flict. President Barack can hit a dinner table with a rocket, why is Having issued an Obama in late August argued for military it not possible to devise methods in which ultimatum -- "a red intervention to punish Syrian President two or more humans can negotiate a solu- line" -- then not act- Bashar Assad for a recent attack with tion to their differences without killing? ing, is viewed by chemical weapons that allegedly killed A president awarded the Nobel Peace some as weak. But not What part of ‘No more war’ more than 1,400 in his nation. Obama said Prize (well in advance of deeds) ought to answering violence he would order strikes by cruise missiles be able to do more than resort to violence. with violence is not do you not understand? to target military sites. Syria is the opportunity to take bold -- evidence of weakness, Obama has received little support for his even shocking -- action. as Jesus proved many times. peace." proposal, including from Pope Francis, In the past, presidents have made covert Here's a sober thought for the decision- Dialogue is viewed as nice, but unwork- who is among many voices urging dia- trips to the site of conflicts. Obama could makers that came from Pope Francis: able, if not impossible. Not so. Let's think logue rather than weapons to solve the make an unannounced trip, land in "There is a judgment of God and of histo- of one good reason why it can be done. problem. The British parliament voted Damascus and try to work out a solution. ry upon our actions that is inescapable," Kent is the retired editor of archdioce- against military action against Syria. U.S. Others could meet at The Hague, or at the he said. "A culture of encounter and a cul- san newspapers in Omaha and Seattle. He Catholic bishops called for diplomacy and Vatican, at the invitation of the pope, ture of dialogue; this is the only way to can be contacted at: Page 10 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus Making Sense of Bioethics The darkened eye of pornography By Fr. Tad Pacholczyk On the other hand, the glance of authentic sexu- al love, flowing from a pure gaze, avoids deni- The world was shocked when the tragic and grating others as a means for self gratification, twisted case of Ariel Castro burst recently into the and draws man and woman into an abiding, life- limelight. Before he took his own life in prison giving union. earlier this month, he had kid- The need for that pure inner gaze has never napped and repeatedly raped, been more succinctly expressed than in that time- humiliated, and beaten three less pronouncement uttered two millennia ago: young women held captive "Your eye is the lamp of your body; when your inside his Cleveland house for eye is sound, your whole body is full of light; but more than 10 years. At his sen- when it is not sound, your body is full of dark- tencing in August, he blamed ness. Therefore be careful lest the light in you be his longstanding habit of darkness" (Luke 11:34). watching two to three hours a We see just how dark the darkness was in the day of pornography for his life of Ariel Castro. Through pornography addic- crimes: "I believe I am addicted to Pacholczyk tion, a skyrocketing phenomenon today, our eye pornography to a point that it really makes me easily becomes darkened and shuttered. A woman clutching a rosary prays for peace in Syria with Lebanese and Syrian Maronites in Jounieh, Lebanon, Sept. 7. Lebanon, with its popula- impulsive and I don't realize what I'm doing is This darkness affects not just the men who view tion of about 3.5 million people, has received more than 1.5 million Syrian wrong." it, but also women who may not themselves be refugees, the largest amount of any country in the region. (CNS photo) To what extent pornography is directly related regular consumers of pornography. Women may to violence remains up for debate (explaining any be drawn into the subtle and demeaning trap of complex human behavior in simple cause and objectification when they are pressured to serve As conflict rages, displaced effect terms can be exceedingly difficult). What is as compliant proxies for the acting out of their beyond dispute is that pornography sets the stage spouse's hard core pornographic fantasies. Instead Christians in Middle East for viewing women in an exploitative way, as of relating to the actual person they are with, they sexual fodder for the gratification of men. In fact, may instead feel obligated to play a role in satis- the widespread availability and consumption of fying various desires and fetishes. In this way, experience life in waiting pornography has arguably become the most per- pornography may impact the way consensual By Doreen Abi Raad ly fled to neighboring Lebanon. vasive objectifying force in society today. relationships develop between men and women, Catholic News Service Now, seven adults and five chil- In a recent newspaper discussion about pornog- weaving a warped and exploitative element into dren are crammed into the small raphy, one male participant remarked that most the early stages of the relationship. BEIRUT — The misery experi- space. men do not end up marrying supermodels, so he The average woman may also struggle with a enced by Mariam and husband, Holding year-old Youssef, thought pornography wasn't a bad thing, since it sense of inadequacy when it comes to competing Ephrem, and their three young Mariam greets a visitor as she and enabled "the goods" that a few women possessed with or measuring up to the naked women of the children is just one example of her husband roll up foam mat- to be spread around and shared. He seemed to internet, particularly in the face of pervasive air- hundreds of thousands of tresses still on the floor. have no compunction about using women as brushing, silicone implants and photoshopping of Christians in the Middle East, dis- Youssef's siblings, Takla, 4, and pawns in the endgame of satisfying male lust. porn models. These concerns about undue pres- placed by wars in which they are Nada, 2, are sound asleep on the The gaze we direct towards each other can easi- sure on women apply not just to the pornography not participating. two single beds pushed together in ly go astray, demeaning not only ourselves, but industry but even to the modern fashion industry The family's place of transition the sparsely furnished room. others around us as well. When one's gaze is with its frequently provocative designs, and to the is a single room in a run-down Suitcases are piled atop the stand- directed askance, as Bishop Paul Loverde or numerous soft porn initiatives such as the Sports building in Beirut. It is a building alone closet beside a small couch. Arlington, Virginia, noted in a 2006 letter on Illustrated swimsuit edition. It should come as no full of people like them who have There are no toys. pornography, "one becomes the kind of person surprise when ordinary women and girls manifest fled the war in Syria, all attempt- Before coming to Lebanon, the who is willing to use others as mere objects of loathing and abusive tendencies towards their ing to eke out an existence. couple and their children had lived pleasure." The impure gaze of pornography, own bodies, when they feel threatened by impos- A glimmer of hope momentarily in Darya, a suburb of the Syrian focused on "body parts," or "performances," takes sible comparisons and expectations. appears in the eyes of Mariam's capital of Damascus. Ephrem's job on its own momentum and quickly draws us away The enduring glance, sparked by the sexual neighbors congregating on the as a teacher at an electronics insti- from the relational commitments and responsibili- attractiveness of the other, is never meant be stairwells when a stranger accom- tute had been enough to support ties implied in our human sexual nature. directed askance by the vicious snare of pornogra- panies Ephrem to the family's the family and for Mariam to stay One of the key objections to pornography is phy, but instead to point towards a personal and room on the third floor. That's at home with the children. that it sets up a fantasy world without the risks committed marital love, purified of exploitative likely a reflection of their dream Not long after the initial upris- and challenges that exist in real relationships. It and objectifying tendencies. that someday, someone can ing against the Assad regime, their warps and distorts the beautiful gift of human arrange to rescue them from their neighborhood had seen intense sexuality, so it no longer serves as an interperson- Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his doc- misery. fighting, caught between posts for al force for bonding and building families, but torate in neuroscience from Yale and did post- The refugees requested that only the Syrian army and the rebel instead devolves into an exploitative and isolating doctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest of the their first names be used to protect group, the Free Syrian Army. force in the lives of those who fall prey to it, diocese of Fall River, MA, and serves as the their identities. "Before, we were living in a changing its clients, in the words of one commen- Director of Education at The National Catholic At first, just Ephrem, Mariam good way with Muslims. But hen tator, into "basement dwellers" and "bottom feed- Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. See www.ncb- and their children lived in the ers." center.org room. But as the situation in Syria worsened, more of Ephrem's fami- (Please See LEBANON/22) The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 11 Nation Catholic college student: 9/11 attacks marked the loss of innocence WASHINGTON (CNS) -- Alyssa Badolato, a senior at City, near Shanksville, Pa., and at the Pentagon. close to us." The Catholic University of America in Washington, Nicole Kolenberg, a sophomore from Stamford, Conn., Tom Lahey, a sophomore from New Jersey, said he described the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, as her loss of said although she was in second grade in 2001, she was also in second grade in 2001. Lahey said his father innocence. remembers the news of the attacks vividly. was stuck in the subway under the North Tower when Badolato said she was 10 when the attacks of 9/11 "It's the first thing I remember so vividly," Kolenberg that tower of the World Trade Center fell. took place. said. "My parents came to pick me up from school. We "He didn't get home until 8 p.m. that night," Lahey "You didn't think these things could happen in our went out in our boat and we could see the Long Island said. "He was covered in soot. A couple of my friends' country," she said. "Now there's this fear. We're still Sound in smoke. It was unreal." parents died." feeling those effects." Kolenberg said flags were laid on the lawn of the Students wrote the names of loved ones and prayers Badolato, former chairwoman of the College Edward J. Pryzbyla University Center in loving memory on cards where they laid their flags. Jax Descloux, a Republicans at Catholic University, is from Cherry Hill, of all the lives lost. sophomore from Westchester County in New York, said N.J. She and other members of the university's chapter "We're trying to fill the lawn up," she said. her father also experienced a close call during the of College Republicans helped hand out flags to stu- Kolenberg said the events of Sept. 11 were especially attacks. Descloux said her father used to work at the dents on campus on the 12th anniversary of 9/11 in difficult for those in her community. World Trade Center. remembrance of the lives lost in the terrorist attacks that "It's hard because we were so close to the city (New "He was supposed to go to the city (on Sept. 11), but claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 people in New York York City)," she said. "We lost a lot of people who were he overslept," she said.

A home and car are Book offers ‘one-stop seen Sept. 12 after a flash flood in Coal Creek destroyed a shopping guide’ for bridge near Golden, Colo. Flash flooding caused by heavy all things Catholicism rains in northern "The Catholic Church: What Everyone Needs to Know" by John Colorado has left at L. Allen Jr. Oxford University Press (New York, 2013). 298 pp. least three people $16.95. dead and the wide- spread high waters Reviewed by Agostino Bono are keeping search and rescue teams Catholic News Service from reaching stranded residents In a gargantuan effort, John Allen chronicles the Catholic and motorists in Church's history, doctrine, discipline, institutional struc- Boulder and nearby tures, population shifts, divisions, tensions, diversity, prob- mountain communi- lems and prospects in "The Catholic Church: What ties. (CNS Everyone Needs to Know." photo/Rick Wilking, The one-volume work combines fact-filled pages with Reuters) succinct writing. In good journalistic fashion, Allen avoids taking sides on much-debated issues and doesn't try to solve the church's current problems. Catholic leaders urge prayer for flooding victims Instead, the book provides factual data for framing issues By Veronica Ambuul Heavy rains fell across much of Public officials closed schools, and for understanding how Catholicism got to where it is Catholic News Service Colorado's Front Range for sever- including the University of today. This framing should help readers evaluate future al days, and more rain -- from 6 Colorado in Boulder. Rushing church actions and evolutions as it wrestles with internal COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. to 10 inches — was expected to water made roads throughout the problems and with communicating its religious message to a — As much of the rest of fall through the Sept. 14-15 week- region impassable. Law enforce- multifaceted world. For non-Catholics and lax Catholics Colorado scrambled to stay out of end, according to a forecast by the ment officials confirmed at least wanting more than a catechism understanding of the church, the path of raging floodwaters, National Weather Service. three people died in the flood this is book is an excellent start. residents of beleaguered Manitou Areas scarred by forest fires -- waters. Allen compiled the book after decades covering Springs and other small mountain both in the Colorado Springs area Residents of canyons in the Catholicism as a correspondent for the National Catholic towns along the Highway 24 cor- and in northern Colorado -- were foothills west of Denver were Reporter and Vatican analyst for CNN. He calls it a "one- ridor gave thanks that, for now particularly vulnerable to flood- being warned about the risk of stop shopping guide" to the church. anyway, they were out of harm's ing. more flash floods. But the book also presents an unconventional view of the way. In Colorado's northern counties, Denver Archbishop Samuel J. church, breaking stereotypes by often stressing the diversity "We're all good," a woman at which make up the Denver Aquila said in a Sept. 12 state- and universality of an institution with members who span the parish office of Our Lady of Archdiocese, widespread flooding ment he was praying for all those the globe. Allen calls Catholicism the "McDonald's of the Woods in Woodland Park, said forced the evacuation of thou- affected by extensive flooding in organized religion," offering a standard menu supplemented Sept. 13 to The Colorado Catholic sands of people, namely in the northern Colorado and urged all by variety geared to local tastes. Some, though, may think Herald, newspaper of the cities of Boulder, Lyons and that Allen takes inculturation too far when he says that Colorado Springs Diocese. Lafayette. (Please See FLOODS/21) (Please See BOOK/20) Page 12 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 13 TheThe BeautyBeauty UpUp AboveAbove

91st Annual St. Joseph Fall Festival “The Best Journey Always Leads us to Home and Family”

Sunday, November 10 10:30 a.m. Flag Ceremony and Balloon Release

11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Turkey and Rowena Style German Sausage Dinner with Trimmings Adult Plates- $9.00, Children - $5.00 Plates to Go $9–Drive Thru/Walk Up Uncooked sausage for sale @$4.00 lb

11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Children’s games and Bingo

1:15 p.m. – Auction begins

4:30 p.m. – Sausage Sandwich Supper $3.00 (includes tea)

Country Store opened all day San Angelo artist close to completing interior redesign work at Rowena’s St. Joseph Church By Jimmy Patterson bleizing the ten columns in the sanctuary, enhanc- Angelus Editor ing the arches with a stencil design and giving the window frames and ceiling a faux finish that cre- ROWENA — A project over a year in the mak- ates a wood-grain and Old English effect. ing is nearing completion at St. Joseph’s Church The mural, Goodman said, has been a most in Rowena. After months of planning by parish- gratifying task at the church. ioners, St. Joseph’s welcomed Church Art Glass “This has been a wonderful project and I love it of Clinton, Kent., which provided needed immensely,” Goodman said. “I wanted Jesus to facelifts and cleaning of the church’s exterior glow and I wanted people to walk in and be com- windows in March. pletely moved. That’s what Jesus should convey A mural in the church’s dome, over the altar, when you see him in the dome.” created by San Angelo artist Crystal Goodman, The mural also included the design of an angel has served as a perfect and rewarding finish to a looking outward, toward the congregation, as if to project that has restored the church to a beauty be inviting people into the worship experience. many parishioners say they have not seen in The process included several conversations decades. between Goodman and committee members to Goodman, who has completed murals in discuss what should be included in the design of Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana and West the mural and color choices Virginia, was unfamiliar with the old church that The dome over the altar at St. Joseph’s Church in Rowena, middle In early October, the pews at St. Josephs were photo, and, upper right, a conception of the mural, by Crystal rises magnificently over the plains northeast of removed and new carpet was installed. A dedica- Goodman, of San Angelo; lower right, Goodman’s interpretation of the San Angelo. Catholics here celebrated their first tion of the newly redesigned sanctuary and risen Christ, welcoming worshipers to Mass. Above, Goodman also Mass on November 20, 1907. The Gothic-style church building is expected later this year. enhanced the frames that border the stained glass design at the structure was erected in 1924. Goodman has also completed artwork at a church, work done earlier this year by Church Art Glass, of Kentucky. In addition to Goodman’s mural, she is also mar- church in Eden. Page 14 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus Measuring Pope Francis’ impact after six months America Magazine

It is with both caution and charity that we set out to assess the first months of the papacy of Pope Francis. Six months is not a long time in the church, and it seems unfair to evaluate an indi- vidual's achievements 4 Analysis Pope Francis waves after so short a period. We as he arrives for a are also aware that as a meeting with the Jesuit journal we have a special relationship to the first poor and prisoners Jesuit pope, who kindly agreed to allow America to print in the cathedral in the English translation of his interview with Jesuit jour- Cagliari, Sardinia, nals from around the world. Sept. 22. (CNS Yet St. Ignatius Loyola, the founder of the Jesuit photo/Paul Haring) order, calls us to look back over our lives to discern the (Sept. 23, 2013) fruits of the Spirit. In this spirit, we look at the gifts Pope Francis has bestowed upon the church. We begin, as St. Ignatius recommends, with gratitude. We are thankful to Pope Francis for embracing his role as pope with a "big heart open to God." The joy he takes in his ministry is abundantly evident. Called by his brother cardinals to the Petrine office, he took up his new role with surprising energy. His heart was open to the workings of the Spirit, and he has in many ways been transformed. The pope offers a lesson to Christians of all ages: Always be free enough to answer God's call, istry. He is, to use a term from St. Ignatius, "indifferent," island of Lampedusa. While built on such personal as the fishermen did by the Sea of Galilee. "poised like a scale at equilibrium" as he considers his encounters, his witness extends to a substantive critique Pope Francis' style has proved to be both simple and options. Whether the issue at hand is the viability of the of the economic and social structures that divide our profound. By riding in a modest car and living in an Vatican Bank or the workings of various curial offices, society into rich and poor. The pope's bracing words that unadorned apartment, he sends a clear message: material the pope does not come across as attached to any one the "golden calf of old has found a new and heartless possessions are fleeting. Choose to attach yourself to plan of action, but to what best advances the work of image in the cult of money" made many people uncom- God, not the things of this world. By reaching out to Christ in today's world. fortable. That is as it should be. It is clear from his inter- workers at the Vatican and calling upon ordinary Pope Francis has not shrunk from assuming an inter- view that Pope Francis has developed a deep spirituality Catholics in moments of crisis, he lives out the Lord's national profile as the world debates the morality of war. over many years in ministry, learning from his mistakes command to love our neighbor. His vigil for peace in Syria drew an estimated 100,000 and seeking counsel from his brothers and sisters in These have always been the messages of Jesus Christ, people to St. Peter's Square, where the pope sat with Christ. Nowhere is this more apparent than in his radical but they need to be presented again in every generation. them in prayer for hours. "Is it possible to walk the path embrace of the poor. Pope Francis has been wonderfully adept at calling us to of peace?" the pope asked. "Can we get out of this spiral Pope Francis has been subject to mostly gentle criti- these Christian principles. He has won over many disaf- of sorrow and death? Can we learn once again to walk cism thus far. Some had hoped for more lay involvement fected Catholics, and his words of compassion for the and live in the ways of peace? Invoking the help of God, in a reform process that now includes only eight suffering, for gays and lesbians, and for unbelievers under the maternal gaze of the Salus Populi Romani, prelates. Others have noted that Pope Francis' winning have already reshaped the image of the church in the Queen of Peace, I say: Yes, it is possible for everyone!" style and instinct for collaboration may not be enough, world. At a time of increased militarism around the world, the on their own, to bring about necessary changes in the The pope has also embodied a refreshingly collegial pope is putting the church forward as an unwavering Curia. These questions are worth exploring, but we style. By publicly seeking the counsel of eight cardinals, advocate for peace. Today, when violence tears at the should be careful not to burden the pope by placing in whose report on church reform is due in October, Pope fabric of so many societies, this is the prophetic role the him all of our hopes for the flourishing of the church in Francis put his trust in the wisdom of his brother bish- church is called upon to play. the world. He would be the first to remind us that the ops. He seems to know where his gifts lie and where he Finally, the pope has displayed a steadfast commit- work of Christ begins with us and that our hope rests in can profit from the assistance of his colleagues in min- ment to the poor. He has reached out to families in the God alone. favelas of Rio de Janeiro and migrants on the Italian POPE (From 1) your everyday, daily life." tion. and prayer helps with getting to know "You can't know Jesus where it's peace While reading the catechism is neces- him with one's heart, but people also added. and quiet, or in the library," he added. sary, it's not enough, he said. need to get to know him through action, "You can't know Jesus without having Pope Francis emphasized it is impor- "It's necessary to know Jesus in dia- "going with him, walking with him," the problems, and I would venture to say: 'If tant to read what the church has to say logue with him, talking with him, in pope said. you want to have problems, go out on the about Jesus. prayer, on your knees." In order to truly know Jesus, he said, road to know Jesus. You won't have one, In fact, "we have to study and learn" "If you don't pray, if you don't talk with people need to learn these "three lan- you'll have many,'" he said. the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Jesus, you don't know him," he said. guages -- of the mind, heart and action." "You can't know Jesus in first class. where it teaches people about the son of Studying the church's teachings helps You get to know Jesus out and about in God, God's love and the story of salva- getting to know Jesus with one's mind, The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 15 Revelation takes ultimate form in person of Christ By Fr. Joe Uecker, C.PP.S.

What was the upshot of the whole affair regarding the Declaration on the non-Christian religions? The affair was typical of a situation where messages were conveyed by indirection or through third parties, so that for those on the scene it became This photo taken in 1930 during VATICAN II: The Third Period (1964): Pt. 4 the dedication of St. Gabriel almost impossible to know how to interpret what was really going Monastery in October Study on and to whom to address questions or grievances. To the prob- Brighton, Mass., Question lem of the blurred lines of responsibility that had dogged the shows the layout Council all along was added, therefore, a style of communication of a pre-Vatican II The Year of Faith will also be that left people wondering who really said what and to whom and sanctuary. Before when they said it. The solution was to run to the pope. And it the changes set a good opportunity to intensify forth by the the witness of charity. seems that Pope Paul’s door was forever open. The Council, meanwhile had not been idle. On September 30, it Second Vatican (Porta Fidei No. 14) Council, the took up the schema on revelation revised various times. This was priest celebrated Faith without charity bears the first in a series of schemas that the Council discussed with rel- Mass facing the no fruit, while charity without ative speed during October. Many people wanted this third period altar with his faith would be a sentiment to be the last. Up to this point, the Doepfner Plan was still being back to the con- constantly at the mercy of followed, more or less. But it was during this period that the plan gregation. (CNS doubt. Faith and charity each met its end. The original schema on revelation viewed revelation photo from The require the other, in such way as consisting of truths or doctrines, whereas this one emphasized Pilot) that each allows the other to that it was God’s self-revelation which expressed itself in God’s set out along its respective action in history as well as pronouncements. Revelation took its path. (Porta Fidei No. 14) ultimate form in the very person of Christ. God is the source of revelation; God, not Scripture or Tradition. These are two chan- How does your parish com- nels through which revelation comes to humanity. This was the munity advocate for social jus- tice? Please See VATICAN II / 20 La revelación tomó su última forma en la persona de Cristo Padre Joe Uecker, C.PP.S. vista que era común en el pensamiento católico por siglos. dando testimonio al Evangelio en sus vidas diarias. No como el original, este texto, así como la versión final, El próximo esquema tratado fue el de la vida y ministerio ¿Qué era el resultado del asunto tocante a la Declaración declaró claramente que el Magisterio de la Iglesia no está de los sacerdotes. Este esquema había sido reducido sobre las religiones no-Cristianas? Era típico de una superior a la Palabra de Dios, sino que es su siervo. El dramáticamente según el Plan de Doepfner. Un asunto que situación en que mensajes fueron comunicados indirecta- esquema tenía más defensores que oponentes. Para el católi- surgió fue la disminución del número de vocaciones en los mente o por un tercer partido, y para los obispos fue casi co ordinario, el capítulo 6 era el más importante porque 1950. Esto no fue la verdad en los EE. UU. Tal disminución imposible saber cómo interpretar lo que pasaba en realidad y animó al pueblo católico a leer la Biblia para alimento tan temprano en este país. El documento también proclamó a quién uno debe dirigir preguntas o quejas. Al problema de espiritual. Aunque hoy este documento parece no-ame- de nuevo la llamada a la santidad y cuando hablaba de la las líneas imprecisas de responsabilidad que era parte del nazador, la oposición seguía hasta el fin. pobreza, castidad y obediencia, eso trajo el asunto del celi- concilio entero se añadió un estilo de comunicación que dejó En seguida el esquema sobre el Apostolado Laico fue pre- bato. En público esto fue evitado, pero en privado todos a la gente preguntando quién dijo qué cosa y a quién y cuán- sentado y se les recordó a los obispos que el Papa Juan había hablaban de eso. El documento también pidió el fin del sis- do lo dijo. La solución era correr al apartamento del papa. Y establecido la comisión que era signo de la alta dignidad de tema de beneficios, el sistema por el cual un ingreso fijado parece que la puerta del Papa Pablo siempre estaba abierta. los laicos. El Cardenal Cento dijo “Los laicos no simple- fue pegado a un oficio eclesiástico como pastorado. Mientras tanto, el Concilio no había estado desocupado. mente están en la Iglesia, sino que con nosotros son la Iglesia. El Cardenal Meyer de Chicago habló primero y dijo que El 30 de septiembre, el Concilio comenzó a estudiar el Para la primera parte del siglo veinte, muchas organiza- era raro que los obispos y los laicos tuvieron un esquema esquema sobre la revelación, revisada varias veces. Este fue ciones laicas estaban floreciendo en la Iglesia. En los EE. completo, pero éste (sobre los sacerdotes) fue abreviado. el primero de una serie de esquemas que el Concilio trató UU. había la Sociedad de San Vicente de Paul, el Santo ¿Por qué? Los obispos estuvieron de acuerdo y esto fue el bastante rápidamente durante octubre. Muchos querían que Nombre, los Caballeros de Colón, las Hijas Católicas de principio del fin del Plan de Doepfner. este tercer período sería el último. Hasta este punto, el Plan América, Concilio Nacional de Hombres Católicos, El 15 de octubre, el Concilio comenzó el debate sobre las de Doepfner se usaba, más o menos. Pero durante este Concilio Nacional de Mujeres Católicas. De importancia Iglesias Católicas Orientales. El punto más fundamental del período, llegó a su fin. El esquema original sobre la rev- especial había la Acción Católica (participación de los esquema fue la garantía que sus ritos, procedimientos y pat- elación consideraba que la revelación era tanto verdades o laicos en el apostolado de la jerarquía). La fuente del apos- rimonio espiritual iban a ser respetados y protegidos. Los doctrinas, pero este esquema dio énfasis que la revelación tolado era el bautismo y la confirmación. Había muchas obispos de los Ritos Orientales que hablaron tuvieron unos era la revelación de Dios mismo que se expresó en la acción sugerencias tocante al esquema pero ninguna oposición. Por puntos importantes: No identifiquen la Iglesia Católica con de Dios en la historia como los pronunciamientos. La rev- primera vez, un laico, el inglés Patricio Keegan, habló al el Rito Latino; no sigan con los atentos a hacer que las igle- elación tomó su última forma en la persona de Cristo. Dios Concilio en inglés diciendo que este documento era un paso sias orientales se conformen al Rito Latino; respeten las es la fuente de la revelación; Dios, no la Escritura o la adelante para crear más unidad entre la jerarquía y los laicos patriarcados y recuerden cómo funcionaban colegialmente Tradición. Estos son dos canales por los cuales viene la rev- en la única misión de la Iglesia. Era importante darles a con el Obispo de Roma en el pasado. Este esquema fue elación a la humanidad. Esto fue el rechazo de un punto de saber a los laicos de sus responsabilidades, especialmente aceptado y preparado para aprobación final. Page 16 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus Coming of Age What the wrong war can teach us

By Karen Osborne Catholic News Service

More than a decade ago, I was sitting in an office, USCCB information on Natural Family Planning nervously listening to the president talk about possi- U.S. Conference respect God’s plan for marriage! as man and woman are brought bly going to war with a foreign country. Right now, of Catholic Bishops Marriage is a gift from God. together in a special union—two dis- I'm also sitting in an office, nervously listening to the Whether an individual marries or not, tinct parts of a whole humanity each president talk about going to war with This is a small volume about the everyone benefits from marriage. with distinct gifts of fertility. a foreign country. The thought of methods of Natural Family Planning Marriage nurtures the individual, cre- Husband and wife are called to be bombing Syria makes me sick, just like (NFP). In a world of unbelievably ates the family and ties the rest of reflections of God’s love to the the thought of bombing Iraq made me amazing technology, this information society together. God’s incredible world. queasy in 2002. will introduce you to the novel idea design for marriage is discovered in In their physical complementarity, I'm a dove, not a hawk. I prefer that something valuable can be Sacred Scripture. God created man spouses can say, as did Adam and building cities in video games such as gained through something that is sim- and woman to embody His life and Eve: “This one, at last, is bone of my SimCity rather than destroying them. ply, well, natural. You will learn the love: “God created man in His image; bones and flesh of my flesh” (Gn. Bombing Syria without first exhaust- Osborne basics of human fertility and gain an in the divine image He created him; 2:23). The oneness shared by a hus- ing diplomatic measures is a mistake. understanding of the methods of NFP. male and female He created them” band and wife forms an intimate part- I thought we learned that in Iraq and Afghanistan, If you are married, or planning to (Gn. 1:27). God desired spouses to nership of life and love: “That is why where a lot of mistakes were made. I thought that, as marry, hopefully this introduction share in His procreative love, in reali- a man leaves his father and mother a country, we'd learned from those mistakes. will inspire you to learn one of the ty, to be co-creators with Him, bring- and clings to his wife, and the two of Apparently not. methods of NFP by contacting an ing new life into the world: “Be fer- them become one body” (Gn. 2:24). We don't always learn from our mistakes, do we? organization listed under Resources. tile and multiply; fill the earth and In this way, marriage is distinct from We keep dating bad boys and driving 30 miles per Learning an NFP method is an impor- subdue it” (Gn. 1:28). God planned all other human relationships. In their hour above the speed limit. We don't hand in our tant step to strengthen a marriage. that in marriage the mystery of homework and then wonder where all those low Why? Because the methods of NFP human sexuality would be revealed (Please See NFP/22) grades came from. We know the fire is hot from past experiences, but we feel the terrible temptation to touch it anyway -- just to make sure. Your Family It's absolutely imperative -- in politics and in life -- that we learn from our mistakes. And let's face it: Teenagers know a lot about making mistakes. Facebook envy: on the outside looking in Sometimes it feels like making mistakes is all you do. It feels as if you're always getting in trouble with By Bill Dodds Recently I've noticed that one of the viewer to believe that person's entire your parents, your teachers, your bosses or your Catholic News Service advantages of not being young is hav- day was outstanding. You know this friends. It can be frustrating, especially when you try ing a clearer perspective on life and isn't true even though you may slide to make things better but the people around you don't It can be easy to trigger Facebook the lives of others. I have no doubt into that misconception from time to seem to know that you're trying to change. envy. Just go online and check the lat- that when it comes to Facebook, just time. A picture of a big box of fancy People learn in a lot of ways. One of those ways is est updates from seemingly countless as when it comes to those family schmancy cupcakes in an office break by making mistakes, examining the situation, figuring "friends." Each and every one is hav- Christmas letters, the view from the room has to mean the entire day there out what went wrong, and trying to fix things to ing a great time outside looking in is different from was perfect, right? avoid making the same mistake next time. while you ... you the one from the inside looking out. Ordinary events, daily duties and That last bit is the key to turning a mistake into a stare at that With that in mind, it may help to even obligations can take on a certain valuable life experience. If you don't figure out what screen, sitting on point out to your teen (or younger glow when they're made public in a went wrong and don't take steps to fix it, the mistake the outside look- child) that envy tends to fade once dramatic way. "I had to go buy shoes remains. ing in. you consider the whole picture. Not today" vs. "Look at the new [insert Let's say that you made the mistake of blowing It can seem like everyone has a perfect life. A teen name brand here ] shoes I bought your curfew, and now your parents won't let you go a never-ending may have a tougher time, not just today." anywhere. After looking at the situation, you might barrage of realizing that but appreciating it. We High drama is a Facebook staple. find that letting your parents know where you are at excerpts from need to teach them to recognize that Even regular obligations can seem all times will not only restore your curfew, but may those old cliche Dodds everyone has tough times, challenges, extraordinary and interesting. None of allow you more freedom as they realize they can trust family Christmas hardships and heartaches. Those this is to say Facebook doesn't have you. letters. If you base reality on Facebook photos, videos and mes- many advantages when it comes to Maybe you didn't study for a test or didn't hand in a Facebook, every family has had the sages may present the truth, but it's keeping in touch with family and week's worth of homework. Why not turn that mis- most marvelous year. Their children, not the whole truth. friends. Be mindful that it presents a take around by going to your teacher for help after while not perfect, are oh so close to it. A stunning photo and brief and slice of life, but it will never be a sub- Yes, it's good to hear from them but, seemingly breathless message using a stitute for life beyond the computer or (Please See OSBORNE/23) come on. lot of exclamation points can lead a phone. The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 17 Our Faith Mediums and church teaching; altar girls By Father Kenneth Doyle that we owe to God alone." The catechism parish he published a notice on the front Catholic News Service references the Old Testament Book of page of our parish bulletin about this Deuteronomy which warns (18:10-11): being his policy.) (Missouri) Q. Recently I was watching a reality "Let there not be found among you anyone A. In 1994, the Vatican Congregation for show that featured a "medium" who ... who consults ghosts and spirits or seeks Divine Worship and the Discipline of the was communicating messages to a family oracles from the dead." Sacraments issued a circular letter to the from those who had Having said that, I would not dispute that world's bishops clarifying that the current already passed on. I the souls of the departed may appear to the Code of Canon Law (published in 1983) have always been skep- living and reveal the unknown. Padre Pio -- allows for male and female altar servers. Our Holy Father’s tical of this, but I was the 20th century Italian saint, mystic and The letter, though, leaves it to each bishop 2013 Monthly Intentions wondering what the stigmatic -- is commonly believed to have to determine the practice in his diocese. A church's stance is on been visited with apparitions from souls of further clarification in 2001 notes that, OCTOBER this subject. (Galloway, the departed. The difference, it seems to though a bishop may decide to permit N.J.) me, has to do with from which side the female servers, he may not require them -- People in Despair. That channel is opened: Padre Pio never actively so a local pastor winds up setting the rule those feeling so crushed by life that they wish to end it may A. Mediums are psy- Doyle conjured up such visions, nor even desired for his parish. chics who profess to them, while mediums claim to have the In a few parishes in the U.S. (certainly sense the nearness of God's channel spirits of the dead in order to power to do just that at will. the vast minority) a decision has been love. secure information to pass on to the living. made to use only boys or men to serve World Mission Day. That Some mediums use this "gift" on a daily Q. I have seen Pope Francis quoted as Mass. In general, the few pastors who have the celebration of World basis and often charge a fee for doing so. saying that women should play a greater chosen that option reason this way: Serving Mission Day may help all The moral stance of the church is clear: role in the church (although not as at the altar is often a contributing factor to Christians realize that we are The Catechism of the Catholic Church says priests) -- especially in a church that a priestly vocation, and so as many boys as not only receivers but pro- in No. 2116: "All forms of divination are to views Mary as more important than the possible should be given that opportunity. claimers of God's word. be rejected: recourse to Satan or demons, apostles; and our archdiocese recognizes Most priests, though, would instead say conjuring up the dead or other practices that girls may be altar servers. So what this: If women can be lectors and extraor- NOVEMBER falsely supposed to 'unveil' the future." could be the possible justification for our dinary minister of holy Communion, how Suffering Priests. That That same section of the catechism goes local pastor's allowing only boys to serve could you ever explain to a little girl that on to say that recourse to mediums contra- at Mass? (He is a new pastor, and three she can't carry the wine and water to the priests who experience difficul- dicts "the honor, respect and loving fear weeks before he even arrived at our altar? ties may find comfort in their suffering, support in their doubts, and confirmation in their fidelity. Taking joy and spirituality to the Twitterverse Latin American Churches. By Father John Catoir 4Holding a happy baby brings natural joy and joy to spare. Keep asking. That as fruit of the continental Catholic News Service to the soul. Holding on to the idea that God 4 The joy of making Jesus the center of mission, Latin American loves you right now brings spiritual joy. your life begins when you accept his com- Churches may send missionar- After years of writing books and Both are gifts from God. mandment to follow the golden rule. ies to other Churches. columns, I've discovered a new way to 4 Science, boasting of its triumph over Become a doer, not merely a hearer. communicate. I've taken to Twitter, which faith, is like the polar ice cap boasting 4 Thoughts come and go. Some are toxic. Daily Offering Prayer I've found to be yet about its dominance over the land, a boast Protect your joyful spirit. Sift out needless Jesus, through the another channel I can use as cold and loveless as hell itself. worry. Immaculate Heart of Mary I 4 to help others grow in joy 4 Jesus tells us to love, pray and teach. If Suicidal thoughts can become habitual. offer you my prayers, works, and in spirit. The follow- you are kind, you teach by example. If you Don't believe the feeling that you can't go joys and sufferings of this day ing is a compilation of are not kind, you fail in all three areas. on. Feelings are not facts. With God's help, in union with the Holy Sacrifice my latest musings, some 4 God is in love with you. Why are you all things are possible. of the Mass throughout the too long to tweet. But if 4 God has a job for you to do in this weeping? world. I offer them for all the you're on Twitter and 4 world that nobody else can do. Stay alive Your greatest joy will come from fulfill- intentions of Your Sacred you'd like to see more, ing your purpose in life. The Holy Spirit and be ready when the call comes. Heart: the salvation of souls, please follow me at leads us in directions we may not have cho- 4 Love leads to service; service leads to reparation for sin and the @johncatoir. Catoir sen for ourselves. Be pliant. sacrifice; and sacrifice leads to the cross. 4 A cynic said that the 4 Faith enables you to accept the mystery At times love and suffering are one and reunion of all Christians. I offer argument from intelligent design doesn't of God's love. Without faith, your natural the same. them for the intentions of our prove God's existence. That's like saying a understanding will leave you in the dark. 4 Salvation is your highest goal. Mental bishops and of all Apostles of home run doesn't require a batter. 4 Just because you feel weak and down- health is the next highest. Accept Jesus as Prayer, and in particular for 4 If God is your co-pilot, you're in the cast doesn't mean you really are. Feelings Lord, and love others even when it hurts. those recommended by our wrong seat. God is the invisible gust of are not facts. Jesus has plenty of strength This will assure you of eternal life. Holy Father this month. wind beneath your sails. Page 18 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus Mensaje de los obispos de las fronteras de Mexico, Texas y Nuevo Mexico

"He vista la afliccion de mi pueblo" se yen privados de sus padres y de otros una de sus prioridades. Como pastores Con todo respeto nos dirigimos tambi- (Ex. 3:7). familiares. queremos contribuir a este momento para en quienes tienen la responsabilidad de Queremos mirar la realidad del 1a reflexion y 1a accion con una carta 1a rea1izacion de esta Reforma Los Obispos de las fronteras de fen6meno migratorio desde la perspecti- que estamos preparando para presentarla Migratoria en los Estados Unidos, para Mexico, Texas y Nuevo Mexico, salu- va divina. Asi como Dios sintio compa- en e1 momento oportuno, y la titulare- que pongan todo su empefio en la damos a todos ustedes deseandoles la paz sion por su pueblo esclavo en Egipto, asi mos "Familia mas alld de lasfronteras". misma, siendo conscientes de la dignidad y todo bien en el Senor Jesus. Reunidos ahora se conmueve y nos llama a la com- Los migrantes hacen de su marcha una humana de cada uno de los migrantes, y en nuestra segunda asamblea del presente pasion y misericordia hacia nuestros her- verdadera peregrinaci6n de fe y esperan- de 10 que ellos contribuyen al progreso y afio, hemos compartido nuestra preocu- manos indocumentados. Tambien Jesus, za, y asi nos inspiran a todos, incluso a desarrollo del Pais. paci6n por la situaci6n de millones de el Buen Pastor, se compadecia al ver la nosotros sus pastores. Por eso desde Pidiendo a1 Senor que todas las famil- personas indocumentadas, que migran a multitudes extenuadas (Cf. Mt.14,14) y ahora queremos animar la esperanza de ias puedan mantenerse unidas, queremos los Estados Unidos. Particularmente nos como sus pastores del momento actual, ellos y de todos los que en ellos recono- comprometemos e invitarles a todos ust- preocupa la afectaci6n de tantas familias queremos poner a latir nuestro corazon al cemos e1 rostro de Cristo, para con- edes a asumir el mismo compromiso de que se han visto divididas por la falta de ritmo del suyo. tribuir can nuestra oracion y can la trabajar en favor de esta instituci6n, una conveniente Reforma Migratoria Estamos en un momento en el cual los accion que cada uno pueda ofrecer, para querida por Dios como fundamento de la comprensiva. Al presente, los mas dafia- lideres de Estados Unidos van a tratar el lograr lo mas posible en favor de estos sociedad. dos son los miles de nifios y j6venes que tema de la Reforma Migratoria, como hermanos nuestros. STATEMENT (From 1) it at an opportune time; we will entitle this forthcoming document Reform. At present, those most "Family Beyond Borders". injured are the thousands of chil- Immigrants make of their journey dren and young people who find a true pilgrimage of faith and hope, themselves and thus they inspire deprived of their us all, including us parents and other Immigrants make their shepherds. This is family members. of their journey a why at this time we We seek to want to encourage view the reality true pilgrimage of their hope, and the of the migration hopes of all of us who phenomenon faith and hope, and see in them the face of from the divine thus they inspire us Christ. We want to perspective. Just contribute with our as God had com- all, including us prayer, and with the passion for his their shepherds. action that each one people enslaved can offer, to achieve in Egypt, so now This is why at this all that might be possi- he is moved, and time we want to ble in favor of our he calls us to brothers and sisters. compassion and encourage their With utmost respect mercy towards we direct ourselves to our undocument- hope, and the those who are respon- ed brothers and hopes of all of us sible for the enactment sisters. Further, of an Immigration Jesus the Good who see in them Reform in the United Shepherd felt the face of Christ. States, so that they compassion upon might put all their seeing the -- Border Bishops determined energy into exhausted multi- this effort, conscious tudes ( cf Mt 14,14). As their cur- of the human dignity of each immi- rent shepherds we want to make our grant, and conscious of what they hearts beat in rhythm with theirs. contribute to the progress and We are at a moment in which the development of this country. leadership of the United States is Asking The Lord that all families taking up the issue of Immigration might remain united, we wish to Reform as one of its priorities. As commit ourselves and invite all of shepherds we wish to contribute to you to take up this same commit- this moment of reflection and action ment to work in favor of the family, with a letter we are currently an institution willed by God as the preparing, so that we might present foundation of society. The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 19 FAITH (From 1) During the deanery masses (November 20, 2013) to close Works of Mercy the Year of Faith, we will all pray the Act of Consecration to for the blessings we have received in Christ with His mother Christ our King. This consecration will then be prayed at during this Year. For just a moment, let’s go back and recall These corporal and spiritual works of mercy are: each mass on the actual date of closure, the Feast of Christ why our Holy Father, at the time, Benedict XVI, proclaimed Corporal Works of Mercy Spiritual Works of Mercy the King, on Sunday, November 24, 2013, and in the Masses this Year of Faith. -- To feed the hungry; --Admonish the sinner of anticipation. As he announced this Year of Faith, Pope Benedict XVI -- To give drink to the thirsty; --Instruct the ignorant To help us to continue to live our faith each day, I am ask- was encouraging Catholics to nourish their faith by discover- -- To clothe the naked; --Counsel the doubtful ing that as a follow-up to the Year of Faith, we do the fol- ing the fidelity of God toward us, and savoring the memory -- To shelter the homeless; -- Forgive all injuries lowing. I am asking that we pledge ourselves to live out the -- To care for the sick; -- Counsel the sorrowful number one ministry of our Diocese which is Family Life of God’s action in human history, the God who invites each -- To visit the imprisoned; -- Bear wrongs patiently one of us to have a personal relationship with God the -- To bury the dead. -- Forgive all injuries and Marriage, and to give new emphasis to the number one Father, Son, and Holy Spirit through the gift of faith. Pope priority of this ministry, which is respect for the precious Benedict said that “Faith is nourished by the discovery and THE BASIC QUESTION IS: How can we better live and fulfill unborn, to bring an end to abortion, and a new respect for all the memory of God who is always faithful, who guides his- our number one priority of praying and working to protect the human life at every stage of life. This number one ministry tory and is the secure and stable foundation on which to unborn and live out these works of mercy at a family level, a and priority were chosen as the special ministry for our build one’s life.” The Holy Father reiterated his call to delve parish level, inter-parish level and a Deanery level? Diocese as we began the 50th anniversary of our Diocese into Scripture during the Year of Faith, so the Bible is “the The nine special strategies that I am asking our priests and back in October 2012. Our life of faith begins in our homes best place to discover the events of this journey.” In pro- pastoral leaders to focus on are: guided by our parents and other family members. This faith claiming the Year of Faith, our Holy Father Pope Benedict 1. Make family faith formation a goal of congregational life and has its beginning in baptism, and is nourished especially by XVI stressed, and his successor, our present Pope, Francis, ministry. the Sacraments of our beautiful Catholic Church. So as we reconfirmed, that the Year of Faith was meant to promote the 2. Utilize church ministries and programming to teach, model, continue to live out the Year of Faith, we want to pledge our- personal encounter with Jesus. Our Holy Fathers as good and demonstrate family faith practices and then provide the selves to be faithful to Christ, especially to attending Mass resources for families to live the practice at home. frequently and receiving our Lord in Holy Communion and shepherds, expressed that we should be grateful that God is 3. Build on practices families are already engaged in. giving us, the people of God, this Year of Faith “to rediscov- 4. Involve the whole family in congregational life, programs, also to celebrate often the beautiful Sacrament of er faith more, and perhaps in certain circumstances recover and leadership roles. Reconciliation, Confession, which not only takes away our faith.” Again, our Holy Fathers stressed that faith begins in a 5. Offer family and intergenerational learning programs. sins, but gives us special grace and strength to deal with the family with a mother and father, and then a community that 6. Develop family faith formation around life-cycle milestones temptations and struggles in our daily lives. And, I encourage enables us to have a loving relationship with the person of 7. Offer a variety of developmentally – appropriate family serv- our families — parents and children — to study together the Jesus Christ. Parents have the great privilege and duty to ice projects. Bible and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. help their children to come to know and love our true God 8. Provide at-home resources for the core family faith practices. To help us live this No. 1 ministry of Family Life and and all that Jesus did to give us salvation and eternal life. 9. Use the internet to resource and connect families. Marriage, I am asking that our priests in all of our communi- As we now bring closure to this beautiful Year of Faith, it is Our priests are asked to study from the material received after ties do the following: As we end the Year of Faith and enter a time especially to see how we can continue to live our faith the Roberto seminar several years ago the longer information of into the new Liturgical Year with the First Sunday of Advent, every day of our lives, especially by making every effort to these strategies. December 1, 2013, I ask that at every Pastoral Council meet- put our faith into action. During the Year of Faith, our Holy THE BASIC QUESTION: How can we better implement these ing in the coming year, that quality time be given to review strategies in our homes, at a parish and interparish level, and at Father also reminded us that the goal of the Year of Faith is a Deanery level as we give focus to help our people live their our number one priority, praying for and actively protecting to live our baptismal call to holiness, to deepen our life of Catholic faith after the celebration of the Sacraments of Baptism, the unborn, and to implement more forcefully the Corporal faith in our hearts and minds especially through prayer and Marriage, Confirmation, and the mystagogia of RCIA? Works of Mercy and the Spiritual Works of Mercy, which the sacraments and then to show people Christ and the way are splendid ways to put our faith into action. I am also ask- to grow in friendship with Him, and by practicing the works ing that, as a way to follow up on the Year of Faith, accord- of mercy. As Catholics, in the Sacraments, we are blessed ing to our number one ministry, that at each Pastoral Council with a personal encounter with our Lord and Savior, Jesus of our lives when she surrendered her life to God in faith and meeting during the year, one of the special nine strategies of Christ. These Sacraments provide us with the grace to live trust, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord, be it done to building up faith in all of our families that were given to the out our call to reflect on the love of Christ, and to share that me according to your word.” [Luke 1:38] priests at a seminar some three years ago by John Roberto be love with our neighbors through caring for the poor and wel- The actual date to close the Year of Faith is Sunday, studied and implemented in our parishes. I call upon all the coming those who feel distant from God. Our Holy Fathers November 24, 2013, but as we cannot come together at a people of our diocese to be involved in our pro-life ministry, also stressed that the Year of Faith was to inspire us to be deanery on Sunday to close the Year of Faith, I am asking especially for the unborn, to take part then in these Corporal missionaries of mercy for Christ, to bring Jesus and His mes- that we have a special Mass in each of the three Deaneries of and Spiritual Works of Mercy and to also give support to sage of love, forgiveness, joy and hope to all the people we our Diocese, to take place on Wednesday, November 20 at these particular strategies that help us to center on building meet. This was the main purpose of the element of the New 6:30 pm. Please make plans to be present for these special up our faith in each individual family, our communities and Evangelization of the Year of Faith that we are all asked to Masses to thank God for our gift of faith and to pledge our- throughout our diocese. share in. For the New Evangelization to bear fruit, we must selves to live our faith every day of our lives. The Mass to Remember, our number one ministry is Marriage and all become missionaries of mercy. end the Year of Faith will take place in each Deanery and Family Life, and our number one priority is praying and Hence, as we bring closure to the Year of Faith, we must make plans already to be present with your families. working to show new respect and love for the precious continue to remind ourselves of the beautiful gift of faith Masses to end the Year of Faith will be celebrated at the fol- unborn, and for a new respect for all human life at every which God gives us beginning in our baptism, and to remind lowing churches: stage of life. In accord with our number one priority, I ask ourselves of all that Christ did in His death and resurrection San Angelo Deanery – Sacred Heart Cathedral, 6:30 p.m., all of you, the people of our diocese, with our priests to pray to give us forgiveness and the Holy Spirit to live joyful and November 20. -Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI, main celebrant for these intentions, to have each month a Mass in each meaningful lives of faith. To follow up on the Year of Faith, and homilist. Deanery specifically offered for the unborn and to bring an each one of us individually, and especially as family and as a Abilene Deanery – Sacred Heart Church, Abilene, 6:30 end to abortion, and to stress strongly the need for our priests community, should pledge ourselves to live our discipleship p.m., November 20. Msgr. Fred Nawarskas, Dean, main cel- and people to be involved in more prayer, letter-writing to as followers of Christ, to be faithful to His teaching and ebrant and homilist (or another priest TBA). the media, to our government officials, and show much more truth. The great model of how to live our faith is the first and Midland/Odessa Deanery – Holy Redeemer Church, public witness and to do this for the precious little ones who perfect disciple of Jesus, His own mother and our mother, Odessa, November 20. Msgr. Bernard Gully, Dean, main cel- have no voice but ours. Mary, who gives us the spirit we should bring to every day ebrant and homilist (or another priest TBA). Page 20 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus VATICAN II BISHOP (From 15) especially by bearing witness to the (From 2) Son die like a criminal. Gospel in their daily lives. Mary is our mother, yes, but she is also rejection of an approach that had held The next schema to be taken up was be fulfilled. our sister in faith and the model disciple. sway in Catholic thinking for centuries. that on the life and ministry of priests. Mary’s discipleship would call her to be She still wants to lead us and teach us to Unlike the original, this text, like the This had been reduced drastically faithful even in moments of great suffering listen to God’s Word and hold firmly to final version, clearly stated that the according to the Doepfner Plan. One and when she didn’t have all the answers. the hand of Jesus in everything. By her Church’s Magisterium is not above the topic that came up was the decline in the As a brand new mother, as she and Joseph example and motherly care, she helps us to Word of God but acts as its servant. The number of vocations in the 1950’s. This hear the Word so that we, too, will say yes was not true in the U.S. Such decline did take Jesus for the joyful presentation in the schema had many more defenders than and come to experience the love and great- detractors. For the ordinary Catholic, not begin that early in this country. The temple, the elderly prophetic, Simeon, tells chapter 6 was the most important document also sounded again the call to Mary that her Son will be a sign of rejec- ness of God in our lives. because it encouraged the reading of the holiness and when speaking of poverty, tion for many people and that a sword October, the month of the Most Holy Bible for spiritual nourishment. Even chastity and obedience, that brought up would pierce her heart. This prophesy must Rosary, invites us to renew our devotion to though today this document seems non- the topic of celibacy. This was avoided have made a profound impression on Mary Mary, our Sister in Faith and our Mother, threatening, the opposition to it contin- in public, but in private it was the talk of and something she carried daily in her by praying often and with new love and ued to the end. the town. The document also called for heart. That prophetic sword pierced her understanding, the rosary, Mary’s favorite Next the schema on the Lay the abrogation of the benefice system, precious heart as she stood at the foot of prayer. Apostolate was presented and the bish- the system by which a fixed income was the cross on Good Friday and watched her ops were reminded that Pope John had attached to an ecclesiastical office like a established the commission which was a pastorate. OBISPO sign of the high dignity of the laity. Cardinal Meyer of Chicago spoke first Cardinal Cento stated: “The laity are not and he found it strange that bishops and (Para 3) que una espada atravesaría su corazón pre- simply in the Church, but with us they laity had a complete schema, but this cioso al estar al pie de la cruz en Viernes are the Church.” one was abbreviated. Why? The bishops anciana., Isabel, quien también estaba en Santo y ver que su hijo muriera como un By the early 20th century an impres- agreed and this was the beginning of the criminal. end of the Doepfner Plan. cinta. María cargaba a Cristo, no solamente sive number of lay organizations were María es nuestra madre, sí, pero ella tam- flourishing in the Church. In the US On October 15, the Council took up para ella, pero por un mundo en necesidad. there were the St. Vincent de Paul the Eastern Catholic Churches. The most Ella ciertamente es la madre de Jesús no bién es nuestra hermana en fe y la discípula Societies, Holy Name, K of C, Catholic fundamental point of the schema was solamente porque es la madre física sino modelo. Ella aún quiere guiarnos y Daughters of America, NCCM, NCCW. the guarantee that their rites, procedures porque ella es la que escucha la Palabra de enseñarnos a escuchar la Palabra de Dios y Of special importance was Catholic and spiritual patrimony were to be Dios y actúa sobre ella. Durante su visita que tomar firmemente la mano de Jesús en Action (participation of the laity in the respected and protected. The Eastern con su parienta, Isabel proclamó bendita a todo. Por su ejemplo y cuidado maternal, apostolate of the hierarchy.) The source Rite bishops who spoke had some María porque ella creía que la Palabra de ella nos ayuda a escuchar la Palabra para of the apostolate was baptism and con- important points: do not identify the Dios se cumpliría. que nosotros, también, digamos “sí” y firmation. There were many suggestions Catholic Church with the Latin rite; do El discipulado de María le pediría que lleguemos a experimentar el amor y regarding the schema but no opposition. not continue the longstanding and con- fuera fiel hasta en los momentos de gran grandeza de Dios en nuestras vidas. For the first time a layman, Englishman tinuing attempts to make the Eastern sufrimiento y cuando no tenía todas las Octubre, el mes del Santísimo Rosario, Patrick Keegan, spoke to the Council in churches conform to the Latin Rite; respuestas. Siendo nueva madre, al llevar nos invita a renovar nuestra devoción a English saying that this document was a respect the patriarchates and remember María y José a Jesús para su gozosa pre- María, nuestra Hermana en la fe, y nuestra step in forging a bond between hierarchy how they functioned collegially with the sentación en el templo, el profeta anciano, Madre, rezando frecuentemente y con and the laity in the one mission of the bishop of Rome in the past. This schema Simeón, le dice a María que su hijo sería nuevo amor y entendimiento, el rosario, la Church. It was important to make the was accepted and prepared for final una señal de rechazo para mucha gente y oración favorita de María. laity aware of their responsibilities, approval. BOOK (From 11) on abortion, gay marriage and family the papal part belongs to Vatican I. The St. Peter is on neither. life; while at the same time more leftist collegiality part was not nailed down These, though, are minor glitches in Catholic grass-roots culture is just as evi- regarding social justice issues and the until the Second Vatican Council almost comparison to the wealth of information dent in a topless beach in Rio de Janeiro global imbalance of political and eco- 100 years later. and understanding Allen provides in easi- as in the Brazilian city's cathedral. nomic power favoring the West. The Regarding liberation theology, the book ly readable language. Each chapter also Given the church's demographics and book has sections on church history, the- has Pope John Paul II generally favoring has a reading list for further study on gender distribution, Allen notes that the ology, worship and hierarchy. But there the catchphrase "option for the poor" specific issues. "typical Catholic" is not a white priest are also parts devoted to contemporary used to stress church commitment to the Unfortunately, the book was written living in Rome but a Brazilian mother of church scandals and how the church downtrodden. But it fails to draw out the before the surprise resignation of Pope four as Brazil is the largest Catholic copes with the always hot-button issues nuanced support as Pope John Paul used Benedict XVI and the groundbreaking country population-wise and the Catholic of money, sex and politics. the word "preferential" before the phrase, election of Argentine Cardinal Jorge population is rapidly shifting to the Such an approach has to necessarily emphasizing that this option was not at Mario Bergoglio as Pope Francis, the developing world commonly referred to paint with a broad brush, risking over- the exclusion of other social and eco- first pontiff from the South. Hopefully, a as the "South." sights and glossing over important facts nomic classes. This one-word addition revised edition will be published incorpo- This population shift away from the and nuances. For instance, Allen has the prevented the phrase from being used as rating this historic passing of the baton developed Western world will strongly First Vatican Council in 1870 declaring a Catholic mask for the Marxist concept and how it once again brought renewed influence the church's theology and that the pope is infallible when speaking of class struggle as the motor of history. international scrutiny of one of the worldview, Allen notes, as Southern on faith and morals in communion with Allen also offers his own list of the world's most durable organizations. Catholics tend to be more conservative the world's bishops (collegiality). Only three best and worst popes. Interestingly, Bono is a retired CNS staff writer. The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 21 PRO LIFE CONFERENCE (From 6) them and for them? and reason to investigate why the EWTN Radio (From 7) One other area I believe we can church has made a decision on a Catolica cial monthly pro-life Mass for faith as we can, not as we want. learn about to more effectively particular area such as marriage, each Deanery. And we need to Through prayer, education and defend our faith from ignorance is chastity or Mary. I've met many Las estaciones de radio en keep writing pro-life letters and witness we can spread God's lov- on the sacraments. Surprisingly, I fallen away Catholics that have las tres deaneries de la dióce- columns for our local papers. We ing word to our neighbors. By have not had many questions turned away from their faith sis de nuevo están transmitien- also need to reach out to women learning who we really are and about the Eucharist. Perhaps it's because of these simple questions do programas regulares en who have had abortions, letting what it is we believe, we can live because we are so dedicated to the that they didn't learn about for español cada fin de semana them know our God is merciful deep fulfilling lives with Christ Eucharist that many people know themselves. Oftentimes, these are por las mañanas. Las sigu- and forgiving and encourage ientes son las estaciones y el and His Church. we will readily fight to the death Catholics that may not have horario donde usted puede these women to take part in pro- One area of our Catholic lives over the very body of our Lord known where to look because grams like Project Rachel. escuchar EWTN y otros esfuer- that we should turn to is Mary. I Jesus Christ. Rather, I get more they never learned how to while zos de programaciones católi- This is a time to renew our recall in high school being asked questions about the other sacra- they were younger. They were not cos en español en Abilene, total commitment to our pro-life about her and not being able to ments! One of the most popular is taught how to feed themselves. Midland-Odessa y San Ángelo: mission, to respect the sanctity answer my friend's questions. why do I need to confess to a Simple off hand comments or Abilene – KKHR (106.3 FM) and dignity of all human life at They would ask about whether or priest? I like to point out Matthew light conversations by a slightly está transmitiendo La Hora all stages, and to continue to not we worship her. All I could 16:18-19 where Jesus tells Peter knowledgeable Catholic are some- Católica de EWTN en español work to bring an end to abortion, say is "We don't." This left them he is the rock and that "Whatever times enough to help our brothers los domingos a las 10 a.m. throughout our state and our feeling unsatisfied and myself dis- you bind on earth shall be bound and sisters find their way home in Midland-Odessa – Padre nation. We need to continue to heartened and confused. I won- in heaven; and whatever you these cases. The most important Gilberto Rodríguez, el Vicario proclaim loudly in a public man- dered why this wasn't enough for loose on earth shall be loosed in aspect however, when we go to Parroquial de la parroquia San ner, especially in preaching, them when it was for me. Mary is heaven." Usually my friends will arms to defend our faith, is that Esteban (St. Stephen’s teaching, in witness and through not only one of the hottest topics stop in their tracks because they we are not going into a battlefield Church) de Midland, presenta the media, that we are indeed for us to defend, but our mother is have not seen this passage in the where we will return bloodied and el programa los sábados desde pro-life at every stage of life, and also one of the most powerful same light as the Church does. victorious. We are not trying to las 5-10 a.m. en KQLM (108 we must continue to pray that intercessors for our faith. She will They've always overlooked this force them to accept our teaching. FM) con entrevista cada sába- with Christ’s help, through the always lead us to her Son by say- passage somehow and now they We are trying to win hearts. It will do con el Obispo Miguel intercession of Mary, we will ing "Do whatever He tells you". are able to see it clearly as if be a slow and meticulous process. Pfeifer, OMI a las 8:45 a.m.. bring an end to the evil of abor- She will guide us deeper into our scales are falling from their eyes. Patience will be tested, Sincerity Además, La Hora Católica de tion and a new respect for the EWTN se puede escuchar los knowledge of the faith by reflec- Another sacrament that I have questioned and Faith pushed to its domingos a las 7 a.m. sanctity of all human life, from tion on the life of her son. Her heard much about is marriage. limits. However, all we are trying conception until natural death. San Ángelo – KSJT en San rosary should bring us not to a Hopefully the current political cli- to do is plant a seed. That is our Ángelo está transmitiendo la As we thank God that the pre- point of contempt with our broth- mate is enough to encourage us to victory. A seed within the hearts Hora Católica de EWTN los cious unborn will no longer be ers and sisters in Christ, but rather learn more about the sacrament of of our loved ones, our brothers domingos a las 7 a.m. killed at Planned Parenthood one of love. If we look earnestly marriage and why the church and sisters. The seed of a vine that centers in San Angelo, Midland, for the answers in our faith start- stands where it does. If not, then will grow within them and lead EWTN en Espanol Odessa and Abilene, let us renew ing with Mary, how blessed and learning what the church teaches them to question what they are Radio stations in all three of our prayers and pastoral efforts strong will the faith in our diocese about it and why it is such a big comfortable with and break down the deaneries of the diocese to show our commitment to the grow! Many non-Catholics and deal for the sake of our friends, their preconceived notions of are again running regular week- sacredness and dignity of all Catholics struggle with devotions family, and coworkers should Christianity and Catholicism. ly programming on weekend human life made in the image to her. If we are able to clearly hopefully motivate us to delve Christ said a man with faith the mornings. The following is the and likeness of God. Thank you express the love and devotion we into Church's teachings on it. size of a mustard seed will be able stations and times where tou for your prayers and support. have for The New Eve, the It is not enough to stand idly by to move mountains. How wonder- can hear EWTN and other Mother of God, The Blessed as the Church holds its ground fully right He is when we are able Spanish-programming efforts in Your servant in Christ and Mary, Virgin or Our Lady of Guadalupe and declares that something is to plant a seed of truth within the Abilene, Midland-Odessa and Most Rev. Michael D. Pfeifer, then how much easier will it be right. We shouldn't just blindly stony heart of a friend or family San Angelo: Bishop of San Angelo for our friends and family to come follow like ignorant sheep. member and watch as it moves ABILENE -- KKHR (106.3 home when Mary is praying with Rather, we should use our faith them ever closer to Christ. FM) is airing EWTN’s Catholic Hour in Spanish, Sundays at 10 am. FLOODS MIDLAND-ODESSA -- Fr. (From 11) focused on material support for those who fire. One month later, parishes closer to down- Gilbert Rodriguez, parochial have sustained damage or loss." town Colorado Springs were the ones feeling vicar at St. Stephen’s Church in people of good will to join him in prayer. He Bishop Michael J. Sheridan said in a Sept. the heaviest impact of from flooding. Midland,hosts a Saturday pro- said was "praying for the souls" of those who 13 statement: "We thank God that no serious Offices at St. Mary Cathedral in downtown gram from 5-10 a.m. on KQLM had died and for their families. injuries or destruction of property have been Colorado Springs sustained serious water (108 FM). Additionally, EWTN Catholic programming can be He said the archdiocesan Catholic Charities reported in our diocese. We continue to pray damage, the diocese reported Sept. 13. heard Sundays at 7 a.m. agency was prepared to help storm victims. for the safety of all the people in northern At St. Paul Church on the southwest side of SAN ANGELO — KSJT in In the Colorado Springs, Mark Rohlena, Colorado." Colorado Springs, the parochial school was San Angelo is airing EWTN’s CEO of Catholic Charities of Central In early August, parts of Manitou Springs -- closed Sept. 13 because it was without phone Catholic Hour Sundays at 7 Colorado, said that in that diocese the agency which relies heavily on tourism to support or Internet service. The parish rectory was a.m. was "helping victims of all the recent flooding local businesses -- had been devastated by also "soaked," said a member of the office on a case-by-case basis. We have mainly been mudslides created when heavy rains fell over staff. the burn scar from last year's Waldo Canyon Page 22 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus LEBANON

(From 11) over again. I felt the same fear," she said. Mariam recounted. 1.5 million Syrian refugees, the most of any In 2007, Mariam, her parents and sib- The exodus of Christians from Iraq has country in the region. Before the Syrian cri- the Al-Nusra Front, came in -- we could lings fled to Damascus from their native reduced their numbers from 1 million to sis began there were already more than recognize them by their long beards and Baghdad to escape the same kinds of dan- less than 400,000, according to the office 50,000 Iraqi refugees living in Lebanon. long shirts -- many of the Muslims turned ger. Amid the family's misery as refugees, of the Chaldean Catholic patriarchate. When Mariam and Ephrem went to reg- fanatic," Ephrem explained, referring to Mariam, then 22, soon met and fell in Amid Syria's deteriorating situation, the ister their family with the UNHCR after the al-Qaeda linked jihadist group. love with Ephram, a Syrian Christian, and Kurdistan region of northern Iraq has arriving in Lebanon in December, they When leaving the house became too they married. received more than 100,000 refugees, some learned they did not qualify because the risky, Ephrem quit his job. Before long, By 2010, the rest of Mariam's family 46,000 who arrived during a two-week organization already had a file on Mariam the couple saw no other alternative but to had been resettled in Canada and Holland period in September, Caritas Iraq reported. as an Iraqi refugee. Consequently, the flee Syria. by the U.N. High Commissioner for According to the UNHCR, the overall family is eligible for a single monthly It was a predicament all too familiar for Refugees. Even though by that time she number of Syrian refugees passed the 2 voucher of approximately $25, instead of Mariam, who was about to become a had her own family and was happy that million mark in early September. the nearly $125 they could have received refugee for the second time. "I never her parents and siblings could begin a Tiny Lebanon, with its population of about as a registered family. They said they imagined that I would experience Iraq all new life, "I felt that I was left alone," 3.5 million people, has received more than hope to be resettled under Mariam's case. NFP (From 16) “great mystery,” a sign of the love family size entirely to chance? This is the difference between choosing between Christ and his Church (Eph. Certainly not. The Church teaches that to falsify the full marital language of the mutual self-surrender of giving and 5:32). a couple may generously decide to have a body and choosing at certain times not to receiving love, they form a Communion Married love is powerfully embodied in large family, or may for serious reasons speak that language. of Persons. In their mutual love for each the spouses’ sexual relationship, when choose not to have more children for the other, husband and wife reflect God’s they most fully express what it means to time being or even for an indefinite peri- The bishops conclude their document own inner Trinitarian communion of love become “one body” (Gn. 2:24) or “one od (Humanae Vitae, no. 10). by reminding us that: and life. In fact, they actually participate flesh” (Mk. 10:8, Mt. 19:6). The Church By using contraception, couples may in God’s way of loving. The power of teaches that the sexual union of husband What should a couple do if they have a think that they are avoiding problems or this intimate marital sharing of love and wife is meant to express the full good reason to avoid having a child? easing tensions, that they are exerting enables spouses, with God’s grace, to cre- meaning of love, its power to bind a cou- A married couple can engage in marital control over their lives. But the gift of ate a home that welcomes children. ple together and its openness to new life. intimacy during the natu rally infertile being able to help create another person, Sometimes, it is easy to forget that the times in a woman’s cycle, or after child- a new human being with his or her own physical expression of love between What does this have to do with contra- bearing years, without violating the life, involves profound relationships. It spouses (the marital embrace) has a ception? meaning of marital intercourse in any affects our relationship with God, who divine twofold purpose. Sexual inter- A husband and wife express their com- way. created us complete with this powerful course unites husband and wife physical- mitted love not only with words, but with This is the principle behind natural gift. It involves whether spouses will ly and is also meant to draw them into an the language of their bodies. family planning (NFP). Natural methods truly love and accept each other as they ever deeper oneness of mind and heart. Married love differs from any other of family planning involve fertility edu- are, including their gift of fertility. At the same time, the marital embrace is love in the world. By its nature, the love cation that enables couples to cooperate Finally, it involves the way spouses will designed by God as the means for bring- of husband and wife is so complete, so with the body as God designed it. spontaneously accept their child as a gift ing new life into the world. It is a real ordered to a lifetime of communion with from God and the fruit of their mutual participation in God’s love—love that God and each other, that it is open to cre- Is there really a difference between love. Like all important relationships gives and receives and creates life. Love ating a new human being they will love using contraception and practicing nat- with other persons, it is not subject solely and life are pure gifts from God. Spouses and care for together. Part of God’s gift ural family planning? to our individual control. In the end, this are meant to share in God's creative spirit to husband and wife is this ability in and On the surface, there may seem to be gift is far richer and more rewarding than through their openness to children. This through their love to cooperate with little difference. But the end result is not that. is why the married couple's fertility, God’s creative power. Therefore, the the only thing that matters, and the way Striving to understand God’s design for which enables them to bring into the mutual gift of fertility is an integral part we get to that result may make an enor- married love is difficult in today’s world world children made in God's own image, of the bonding power of marital inter- mous moral difference. Some ways where so many noisy messages compete is a priceless gift that should never be course. That power to create a new life respect God’s gifts to us while others do for our attention. Taking the time to rejected or harmed. Let’s take a closer with God is at the heart of what spouses not. Couples who have practiced natural learn, reflect, and pray can help us hear look at this reality through hearing from share with each other. family planning after using contraception God’s call. Remembering to listen for the U.S. Catholic bishops in their docu- Suppressing fertility by using contra- have experienced a profound difference God’s voice in the teaching of the Church ment Married Love and the Gift of Life1: ception denies part of the inherent mean- in the meaning of their sexual intimacy. is essential. After all, and as the U.S. ing of married sexuality and does harm to When couples use contraception, either bishops wrote in the conclusion of What does the Church teach about the couple’s unity. The total giving of physical or chemical, they suppress their Married Love and the Gift of Life, married love? oneself, body and soul, to one’s beloved fertility, asserting that they alone have Church teaching “is an invitation for men Marriage is more than a civil contract; is no time to say: “I give you everything I ultimate control over this power to create and women—an invitation to let God be it is a lifelong covenant of love between a am—except. . . .” The Church’s teaching a new human life. With NFP, spouses God, to receive the gift of God’s love and man and a woman. It is an intimate part- is not only about observing a rule, but respect God’s design for life and love. care, and to let this gift inform and trans- nership in which husbands and wives about preserving that total, mutual gift of They may choose to refrain from sexual form us, so we may share that love with learn to give and receive love unselfishly, two persons in its integrity. union during the woman’s fertile time, each other and with the world.” and then teach their children to do so as doing nothing to destroy the love-giving — Theresa Notare, PhD well. Christian marriage in particular is a Are couples expected to leave their or life-giving meaning that is present. Editor The Angelus OCTOBER 2013 Page 23

EDICTAL SUMMONS EDICTAL SUMMONS House, Senate Septmeber 6, 2013 Septmeber 6, 2013 Contact information CASE: POLSON -- MASSEY (SCOGGIN) CASE: POLSON -- PATTERSON NO.: SO 13/44 NO.: SO 13/45 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San The Tribunal Office of the Catholic Diocese of San -- U.S. Congressman K. Michael Angelo is seeking Melissa Lynn Massey (Scoggin). Angelo is seeking Wanda Kay Patterson. Conaway (District 11-- San Angelo, You are hereby summoned to appear before the You are hereby summoned to appear before the Midland-Odessa, Andrews, Stanton, Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 Tribunal of the Catholic Diocese of San Angelo, at 804 Crane, Rankin, Big Lake, Colorado City, Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or before the Ford Street, San Angelo, Texas 76905, on or before Sterling City, Robert Lee, Bronte, 31st day of October 2013, to answer to the Petition of , the 31st day of October 2013, to answer to the Petition Ballinger, Winters, Miles, Christoval, now introduced before the Diocesan Tribunal in an of , now introduced before the Diocesan Tribunal in an Eldorado, Junction, Menard, Eden, Melvin, action styled, “ Dennis James Polson and Melissa Lynn action styled, “Dennis James Polson and Wanda Kay Brady, Coleman, Brownwood, Sonora, Massey(Scoggin), Petition for Declaration of Invalidity of Patterson, Petition for Declaration of Invalidity of McCamey, Mertzon, Sweetwater ) Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as Case: POLSON Marriage.” Said Petition is identified as Case: POL- Phone: 202-225-3605 -- MASSEY (SCOGGIN); Protocol No.: SO 13/44, on the SON -- PATTERSON; Protocol No.: SO 13/45, on the Mailing Address: 511 Cannon House Tribunal Docket of the Diocese of San Angelo. Tribunal Docket of the Diocese of San Angelo. Office Building, Washington, DC 20515 You may communicate with the Tribunal in person or You may communicate with the Tribunal in person Email (via Web): in writing. Failure to communicate within the prescribed or in writing. Failure to communicate within the pre- https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/wel- period of time will be considered your consent for the scribed period of time will be considered your consent come.shtml: Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the above-named for the Tribunal to continue its proceedings in the Web: http://conaway.house.gov/ case. above-named case. Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo on Given at the Tribunal of the Diocese of San Angelo -- Rep. Randy Neugebauer (District 19 the 6th day of September 2013. on the 6th day of September 2013. -- Big Spring, Abilene, Clyde) Phone: 202-225-4005 Reverend Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div.,JCL Reverend Tom Barley, MSW, MBA, M. Div.,JCL Mailing Address: 1424 Longworth Judicial Vicar Judicial Vicar HOB, Washington, DC 20515 Email (via Web): https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/wel- OSBORNE come.shtml (From 16) That's part of being human. But the way thousands of innocents dying in this Web: http://randy.house.gov/ to grow into your potential is to take horrible civil war. Something has to be school? The requested tutoring will not those mistakes, turn them around and done to stop it. I just hope that we've -- Rep. Pete Gallego (District 23 — only impress your teacher, but will give use what you've learned to build a better learned that encouraging war isn't the Fort Stockton, Iraan, Ozona life for yourself and those around you. solution. you study skills and knowledge that will Mailing Address: 431 Cannon HOB help you on the next test and in the Regarding the thoughts of war, I hope teens aren't the only ones to future. though, the hawks are partially right: learn from mistakes. Washington, DC 20515-4323 You will make a lot of mistakes. Something should be done to help the Phone 202-225-4511 Web http://gallego.house.gov/ BARRON (From 8) And this represents a sea change in cul- tion in the dynamisms of nature itself. tural orientation. Up until very recent And finally, it was about cooperating with U.S. SENATE want, so why wouldn’t we?” times, the decision whether or not to have God’s desire that life flourish: “And you, What particularly struck me in this children would never have been simply be fruitful and multiply, teem on the earth -- U.S. Senator John Cornyn “up to the individual.” Rather, the indi- and multiply in it” (Gen. 9:7). None of article was that none of the people inter- Phone: 202-224-2934 viewed ever moved outside of the ambit vidual choice would have been situated in this is meant to be crushing to the will, of his or her private desire. Some people, the context of a whole series of values but liberating. When these great values Mailing Address: 517 Hart Senate it seems, are into children, and others that properly condition and shape the present themselves to our freedom, we Office Bldg., Washington, DC 20510 aren’t, just as some people like baseball will: family, neighborhood, society, cul- are drawn out beyond ourselves and inte- Web: and others prefer football. No childless ture, the human race, nature, and ulti- grated into great realities that expand us http://www.cornyn.senate.gov/public/ couple would insist that every couple mately, God. We can see this so clearly in and make us more alive. remain childless, and they would expect the initiation rituals of primal peoples and It is finally with relief and a burst of joy -- U.S. Senator Ted Cruz in the formation of young people in prac- that we realize that our lives are not about the same tolerance to be accorded to them Cruz, Ted - (R - TX) Class I from the other side. But never, in these tically every culture on the planet until us. Traditionally, having children was one discussions, was reference made to values the modern period. Having children was of the primary means by which this shift Phone: (202) 224-5922 that present themselves in their sheer about carrying on the family name and in consciousness took place. That increas- Mailing Address: B40B Dirksen Senate objectivity to the subject, values that tradition; it was about contributing to the ingly this liberation is forestalled and that Office Building, Washington, DC 20510 make a demand on freedom. Rather, the strength and integrity of one’s society; it people are finding themselves locked in individual will was consistently construed was about perpetuating the great adven- the cold space of what they sovereignly as sovereign and self-disposing. ture of the human race; it was a participa- choose, I find rather sad. Page 24 OCTOBER 2013 The Angelus Dioce-Scenes The West Texas Angelus Official Newspaper of the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas Chicago Three seminarians of the Diocese of San POSTMASTER: Send all address Angelo formally declared their "Candidacy" changes to: for Holy Orders before Cardinal Francis WEST TEXAS ANGELUS George of Chicago at Mundelein Seminary on P.O. Box 1829 September 6. They are Adam Droll of San SAN ANGELO, TX 76902-1829 Angelo, Ryan Rojo of Odessa and Josh Gray ______of Brownwood. Msgr. Larry Droll, Vicar General of the Diocese of San Angelo, attend- Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI ed the ceremonies. Publisher The Rite of Admission to Candidacy "is celebrated when the candidates have reached a maturity of purpose and are shown Jimmy Patterson to have the necessary qualifications," Director of Communications according to the rubrics of the ceremony. Editor Father Robert Barron, rector of the seminary, called each candidate by name. Then the Member Cardinal asked two important questions of Catholic News Service the 90+ candidates: "In response to the Catholic Press Association Lord's call are you resolved to complete your Texas Catholic News preparation so that in due time you will be ready to be ordained for the ministry of the Church?" and "Are you resolved to prepare Published the first Monday follow- yourselves in mind and spirit to give faithful ing the 1st Saturday of each month service to Christ the Lord and his body, the and delivered to all registered Church?" To each question the candidates parishioners in the San Angelo responded, "I am." There followed petitions Diocese. and prayers of blessing for them. A wonderful banquet completed the Subscription rate for all others: evening's celebration. $10 per year

THIRD CLASS POSTAGE PAID PRO-VIDA AT SAN ANGELO, TEXAS (Para 7) mujeres con sus necesidades de salud. fundar facilidades especiales para Ahora es un tiempo de renovar nue- Al extender nuestra ayuda a nuestras hacer pruebas de embarazo y STD. stro compromiso total a nuestra misión Printed by the aborto. Ahora es el tiempo de dar hermanas en Cristo, necesitamos tam- Como parte de nuestro servicio de de pro-vida, de respectar la santidad y San Angelo Standard Times nuevo énfasis a nuestro entero minis- bién promover fuertemente la idea de ayudar a mujeres y sus familias con dignidad de todo ser humano en cada A Scripps-Howard Company terio de pro-vida, y como ya lo he adopción. Hay muchas parejas quienes sus necesidades de salud—ya sea físi- etapa, y de continuar trabajando para hecho en persona y por medio de mi están esperando para adoptar cada ca, emocional, financiera, sicológica, traer un fin al aborto, por todo nuestro predicación y enseñanzas, les pido a niño inocente que es destruido por el pastoral o espiritual—les pido a todas estado y nación. Necesitamos contin- Submissions: todos nuestros sacerdotes y todo el aborto. nuestras iglesias Católicas por toda la uar proclamando fuertemente de una Story suggestions, calendar items, pueblo católico de nuestra diócesis Para continuar llevar a cabo nuestra diócesis que pongan en sus boletines manera publica, especialmente predi- parish briefs and all other que tomen la iniciativa y ayuden a misión de pro-vida, les pido no sola- que nuestras puertas están abiertas cando, enseñando, como testigos y por submissions should be emailed to estas mujeres y familias con sus mente a nuestros sacerdotes pero tam- para proveer estos servicios. También medio de los medios de comunicación, [email protected]. muchas necesidades de salud, espe- bién las religiosas, diáconos, y líderes fuertemente animo a doctores, enfer- que realmente somos pro-vida en cada COPY, PHOTO DEADLINE: cialmente ayudar a las que se afrentan pastorales que planeen maneras pas- meras, trabajadores sociales y salud de etapa de la vida, y que debemos de Third Friday of every month. con una decisión de embarazo. Como torales específicas de cómo vamos asi- nuestras parroquias a ofrecerse y sus continuar rezando que con la ayuda de parte de nuestro servicio de ayudar a stir a mujeres con sus necesidades de talentos profesionales a los Pregnancy Cristo, por la intercesión de María, a mujeres y familias con sus necesi- cuidado de salud y especialmente a las Help Centers y Life Centers que ten- poner un fin al mal de aborto y un Photos should be in jpeg format. dades de salud, ya sea emocional, que se afrentan con una decisión de emos en San Ángelo, Midland, Odessa nuevo respeto por la santidad de toda sicológica, financiera, pastoral o espir- embarazo. Tenemos en nuestra y Abilene y Andrews. Y, continúo vida humana, desde la concepción Letters to the editor are welcome, itual, les pido a todas nuestras iglesias Diócesis algunos Pregnancy and Life pidiendo a mis hermanos sacerdotes, hasta la muerte natural. and should be emailed to católicas que pongan en su boletín que Centers que ya están ayudando a al reunirse cada mes, que planeen Al darle gracias a Dios que el pre- [email protected]. nuestras puertas están abiertas para mujeres y sus familias, en Abilene, claramente maneras pastorales que cioso no nacido ya no será matado en Letters to the editor are printed at proveer estos servicios. También, pedi- San Ángelo, Midland, Odessa y nuestras parroquias ayudarán a los centros de Planned Parenthood en the discretion of the editor and mos que los doctores, enfermeras y Andrews. De manera especial, les pido mujeres con sus necesidades de salud. San Ángelo, Midland, y Abilene, trabajadores de servicios sociales y a todos nuestros sacerdotes y miem- Hay que seguir con nuestra Misa men- hemos de renovar nuestras oraciones y identities of the writer are subject salud y otros voluntarios de nuestras bros de los comités de pro-vida de sual de pro-vida en cada deanery. Y, esfuerzos pastorales para demostrar to verification. Please include parroquias a ofrecer sus talentos profe- cada deanery, con todas las organiza- necesitamos continuar escribiendo car- nuestro compromiso a la santidad y name, address and phone number sionales y dones al Pregnancy Help ciones católicas, en especial los tas de pro-vida y artículos para nue- dignidad de todo ser humano hecho a when submitting letters. Centers, Life Centers y organizaciones Knights of Columbus, Catholic stros periódicos locales. También la imagen y semejanza de Dios. que asisten a las mujeres y sus famil- Daughters, Cursillistas y miembros de necesitamos alcanzar a mujeres Gracias por sus oraciones y su apoyo. ias. Les pido a nuestros sacerdotes de ACTS que se ofrezcan a proveer asis- quienes han tenido un aborto, deján- la ciudad y por todo el deanery que tencia social, emocional, espiritual y dolas saber que nuestro Dios es mis- Su servidor en Cristo y María, sigan planeando y pongan por escrito financiera al Pregnancy Help Centers ericordioso y perdonador y animando Muy Reverendo Miguel D. Pfeifer, claramente maneras pastorales en las y Life Centers en nuestras comu- a estas mujeres que tomen parte en los OMI cuales nuestras parroquias ayudarán a nidades, especialmente ayudándoles a programas como Project Rachel. Obispo de San Ángelo