VOL. 79 NO. 8 WWW.BISMARCKDIOCESE.COM SEPTEMBER 2020 Dakota Action Reporting on in western ND since 1941 Cathedral marks 75th

the wheels in motion to begin the monolithic concrete walls by construction, which would also hand. The skeleton crew utilized provide the city with a second the help of teenagers during . By the fall of 1941, Bishop summer vacation from school. Ryan could see that the diocesan Yet, the real drama of the building The early stages of construction and concrete work that began in the fall of 1941. fund appeal was meeting its lay hidden in a nearby slough. quota, so he ordered construction Just before the war, the steel roof Iconic structure completed in 1945 to begin—breaking ground in beams were shipped to Bismarck. September of 1941. Within two But, soon the government By Sonia Mullally building a cathedral and began months, the nation was at war, requisitioned all steel for the war DCA Editor planning for it in 1922. He bought yet despite an acute shortage of eff ort. The early establishment of the land and commissioned a design men and materials, construction As it’s written in the book Bismarck Diocese concentrated of the Cathedral, but harsh continued throughout the next dedicated to the 75th anniversary on bringing priests to serve the economic conditions prohibited four years. of the diocese, Bishop Ryan new settlers of Western North his dream from becoming a reality. Completed in 1945 apparently felt that patriotism The St. Mary’s parish in Bismarck, could only go so far, so he had Dakota. When Bishop Vincent A group of seven men worked it’s only church at the time, had the steel hidden away lest it be Ryan took over in 1940, his away through the war at pouring focus on providing more priests been serving as the diocesan pro- Continued on page 4 remained, but his added strength cathedral. for fundraising was soon put to the Construction on a cathedral test. was held off because of the Great A LOOK INSIDE Bishop Wehrle, the fi rst bishop Depression. When Bishop Ryan of Bismarck, had a dream of became bishop in 1940, he set

Parish outreach Mass of Thanksgiving The Mother Teresa Outreach in Mandan The 63rd annual appeal is being held sees a spike in demand due to COVID-19 this fall to gather donations for diocesan pandemic ...... Page 6 programs ...... Page 7-9 | SEPTEMBER 2020 2 Dakota Catholic Action Bishop David D. Kagan Take up His cross daily and follow Him to this appeal which has been If we take the time and try in His wisdom foreseen from FROM THE BISHOP made for the diocesan Church to remember one of the first eternity, the cross that He for more than 60 years, I come prayers we learned as little now presents to you as a gift to you with gratitude and I children, I think it would be from His inmost heart. This ask for your continued and the Sign of the Cross. With cross He now sends you He generous support. In advance, a little practice, we got the has considered with His divine I thank each and everyone words and actions coordinated mind, tested with His wise of you for your prayers and and it was so easy that it is justice, warmed with loving financial support and do know second nature for us to make arms and weighed with His that I pray every day at Mass this beautiful prayer in word own hands to see that it be not for all of you and your special and action. It should remind one inch too long and not one intentions. us every time of what Jesus ounce too heavy for you. However, I do not want to has done for love of us but also He has blessed it with His let this month pass and the what we are to do for love of holy Name, anointed it with Feast of the Exaltation of Him. His consolation, taken one the Holy Cross pass without I close with a beautiful last glance at you and your giving it its rightful place and prayer composed by the great courage, and then sent it to attention. Each year on Sept. St. about you from heaven, a special 14 the Holy the Cross. Be consoled and greeting from God to you, an Bishop David D. Kagan celebrates this magnificent strengthened every time you alms of the all-merciful love of feast and asks us to not just meditate on the Cross. God. Your cross.” recall the Crucifixion of the This month of September “The everlasting God has Lord, but to make the Cross of will be a bit different for all of Jesus Christ that outward sign us in the diocese because this of our baptismal month we will have our annual BISHOP’S SCHEDULE in the Death and Resurrection God’s Share Appeal. You recall of Jesus. His Cross is literally SEPTEMBER 2020 that due to the COVID-19 our standard by which we are pandemic which necessitated to live His life and to be His Sept. 5 • Installation Mass of Msgr. Sept. 18 • Home On The Range the suspension of all public Patrick Schumacher for Board Meeting, Center disciples. Recall that Jesus liturgies and devotions Church of Corpus Christi, for Pastoral Ministry, so clearly said that if anyone until early May, I decided Bismarck, 4 p.m. Bismarck, 12 p.m. wishes to be His , he to transfer the appeal to the must take up His cross daily Sept. 7-10 • Fall Clergy Conference, • Confi rmation at Church weekend of Sept. 12-13. As you and follow Him. Medora of the Ascension, have always been so generous Bismarck, 7 p.m. Sept. 12 • Confi rmation at Church of Queen of the Most Sept. 19 • Confi rmation at Church BISHOP IN ACTION Holy , Stanley, of St. Bonaventure, 10:30 a.m. Underwood, 7 p.m. Sept. 13 • Confi rmation at Church Sept. 20 • Confi rmation at Church of St. Wenceslaus, of Holy , Hettinger, Dickinson, 9:30 a.m. MT 10:30 a.m. • Confi rmation at Church Sept. 22 • Real Presence Radio of St. Patrick, Dickinson, Interview, 9 a.m. 12:30 p.m. MT Sept. 25 • Cabinet Meeting, Sept. 14 • Confi rmation at Church Chancery, Bismarck, of Christ the King, 10 a.m. Mandan, 7 p.m. Sept. 27 • Confi rmation at Church Sept. 15 • Women’s Care Center of St. Vincent de Paul, Event, Sixteen 03 Main Crown Butte, 9 a.m. Events, Bismarck, 5:30 p.m. Confi rmation at Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, Sept. 17 • Confi rmation at Church Bismarck, 2:30 p.m. of St. Joseph, Mandan, 7 p.m. Sept. 29 • Confi rmation at Church of Spirit of Life, Mandan, 7 p.m.

Photo by Joe Krupinsky Bishop Kagan with Samuel Aquila (left) of the Archdiocese of Denver, and SOCIAL MEDIA Bishop Austin Vetter of the Diocese of Helena at the transitional diaconate ordination Mass for Diocesan Seminarian Rev. Mr. Nick Vetter on Aug. 15 at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit. Follow the Diocese on Twitter @BisDiocese and follow Bishop Kagan @VescovoDDK

Bishop David Kagan Following Dakota Catholic Action @VescovoDDK Reporting on Catholic action in western ND since 1941 Twentieth Week, Sunday: the Publisher: Most Reverend David D. Kagan, D.D., P.A., J.C.L., Gospel is such a clear teaching in Bishop of Bismarck how to persevere in prayer but Editor: Sonia Mullally, [email protected] more, it is clear in how merciful the Center for Pastoral Ministry - Diocese of Bismarck USPS0011-5770 520 N. Washington Street, PO Box 1137, Bismarck, ND 58501-1137 Lord is to all who go to Him. May Phone: 701-222-3035 Fax: 701-222-0269 we have the faith to do the same! www.bismarckdiocese.com Visit our website at www.bismarckdiocese.com The Dakota Catholic Action (0011-5770) is published monthly except July Get news, photos, videos and more from around the diocese. by the Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1575, Bismarck, ND 58502-1575. Periodical postage paid at Bismarck, ND, and additional mailing offi ces. Search “Bismarck Diocese” on YouTube for POSTMASTER: Send address changes to address below. videos from the Church in western N.D. Dakota Catholic Action, PO Box 1137, Bismarck, ND 58501-1137 Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ The Dakota Catholic Action is funded in part by the annual Bismarck Diocese God’s Share Appeal. Get status updates, photos, videos, and links and share them with your friends. SEPTEMBER 2020 Catholic Action Bringing Christ into everyday life Dakota Catholic Action | 3 Deacon Vetter Seminarian ordained before returning to Rome By Sonia Mullally DCA Editor The coronavirus pandemic has forced many of us to switch our schedule on a moment’s notice. Imagine finding out your ordination will be in a few short days. That’s a change that diocesan seminarian Nick Vetter was faced with just two weeks from packing up to leave for Rome. The plan was for Nick to be ordained to the transitional diaconate with his classmates in October at the Pontifical North American College in Rome where he’s been studying for the past few years. As a bonus, his uncle, Bishop Austin Vetter, of the Diocese of Helena, was to be the main celebrant for the ordination Mass. “Although I have been preparing for this for six and a half years, the ordination to the diaconate came about within the last few days,” Nick explained. “We found out from the Pontifical North American College that guests would not be allowed into Italy for the October 1 ordination date. Within two days, in consultation with Father Dosch and Bishop Kagan, we decided to do the ordination on the Solemnity of the Assumption, August 15.” Instead of no guests attending his ordination Mass in Rome, Nick was surrounded by his extended family, fellow diocesan The newly-ordained Deacon Vetter (second from left) with uncles (l-r) Fr. David Richter, Bishop Austin Vetter and Msgr. Thomas Richter. seminarians and friends, including Diocesan seminarians in the background were (l-r) Jacob Magnuson, Grant Dvorak and Steven Vetter. All three seminarians will be uncles Bishop Vetter, Msgr. joining Nick in Rome to continue their formation this fall. Thomas Richter and Fr. David Richter. “As a deacon, I am looking Nick explained. “Students are of formation, in particular, being Nick and three others are forward to preaching the Word of considered essential travelers with my Steven and the scheduled to be ordained priests God,” Nick expressed. “We often in Italy. I return September 3 to other Bismarck seminarians. They for the Diocese of Bismarck forget that the Word of God is a begin my last year of formation, are some of the best seminarians I next summer. Jacob Person, Jesus Christ. We preach which heavily revolves around know. Bismarck fraternity is great Degele, Ben Franchuk and Greg Him to the faithful sacramental formation. I am and it is a tremendous blessing for Hilzendeger were ordained to the as their . I look forward looking forward to my last year all of us.” transitional diaconate by Bishop to sharing with people my own Kagan in May at the Cathedral. experience of Jesus through my “All of this came about really preaching. Jesus is real and He fast! As Father Josh Waltz and acts in our lives every day.” I were talking, this is a similar Nick and five other diocesan experience to how I joined the seminarians—Grant Dvorak, Jake seminary as well. When God wants Magnuson, Josh Hill, Steven to do something, He gets things Vetter and Isaiah Fischer—will moving,” Nick said. travel to Rome in early September While he’s had to move up the amid COVID-19 concerns. schedule just a bit, Nick is ready to “We are still returning to take on the new role as a deacon. Rome as we have a student visa,”

Bishop Kagan is assisted at the altar by Deacon Nick Vetter during the ordination Mass.

Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions for September

Respect for the Planet’s Resources We pray that the planet’s resources will not be plundered, but shared Photos by Deacon Joe Krupinsky in a just and respectful manner. Bishop Kagan handed the newly-ordained Deacon Vetter the Book of the Gospels commissioning him as a herald of Christ. 4 | Dakota Catholic Action SEPTEMBER 2020 Iconic structure completed in 1945 Continued from front page commandeered. As the walls went up and up, people wondered to what purpose? Then one day in 1944, the beams appeared out of nowhere and the building was enclosed. In January 1945, Bishop Ryan wrote in the Dakota Catholic Action, the diocesan newspaper he created in 1941, “When our cathedral is completed, as it will be in 1945, all the people who gave will rejoice; for their contributions made the cathedral possible. They can truly say ‘Our Cathedral,’ and they will then understand better the phrase ‘Our Diocese,’ so often repeated in the columns of this paper. God has blessed the people of the diocese with good crops during the past four years. The cathedral will remain as symbol of their gratitude and their trust in God.” At the first Mass on Aug. 30, 1945, there was much that was incomplete, especially interior decoration and furnishings. These were added as materials became available after the war. Symbolic of Bishop Ryan’s vision Although the Cathedral was already designed in Bishop Cathedral in the 1950s. Credit: Bob Feickert Photo, Mandan Wehrle’s time, it suited Bishop Ryan’s idea of what a cathedral Hall at St. Alexius hospital and should be. He commented several the World War Memorial building times that travelers on both the in downtown Bismarck. James railroad and the highway would Guthrie moved to town in the see its shining white tower above 1920s. After Bishop Ryan arrived the skyline as they approached in 1940, the two struck up a Bismarck. He was proud of the friendship. That’s likely why the fact that the building is virtually bishop came to James with his fireproof and should outlast most idea to build the new chancery in of the other buildings in the city. 1940 as a sort of prototype for the All this was symbolic of his vision Cathedral. of the Church itself: prominent, The pair worked with William articulate, outlasting the vagaries Kurke of Fargo, an architect who of worldly turmoil. had worked on the state capitol A critical shortage of workers building. The idea to build with was a key that much concrete and in the reason the art deco style was something project took quite new at the time, Fr. Guthrie so long. At the explained. The men wanted to try peak of the out the concept on the chancery construction, completed in 1941, located on the general Raymond Street just south of A seven-man crew of workmen who did the greatest portion of the work on the the Cathedral School. Today, it Cathedral. Most of them had been on the job for more than three years. Pictured are laborers made (front, l-r): Carl Bachmeier, Frank Gustafson, and (back, l-r) John Shafer, Christ Delzer, Pete $26 per week. still functions as the bishop’s Hartwick, Bill Brier and Jake Newhart. The general residence. contractor, Following in the family building was special to the Guthrie tabernacles were moved to Blessed James Guthrie, Fr. John Guthrie business, Father Guthrie’s father family especially for Fr. John and Sacrament chapels. Following the a staunch Catholic from Bismarck, ran his own construction company his seven siblings. “As a kid, I annual Chrism Mass in April 1992, was said to be a stern task- building several iconic structures was raised knowing that we took Bishop Kinney broke ground for master, sharp-tongued but fair. in Bismarck including the Church great pride in my family being the Cathedral renovation project, Sadly, James died suddenly and of Anne, Annunciation involved in the construction saying it would “carry the diocese unexpectedly shortly before the Priory and the Civic Event Center. of the Cathedral,” he said. “I well into the 21st century.” It was completion of the project. James’s received all my sacraments there the first major renovation of the Establishing a parish son, Bob was also a member of the from to and Cathedral to be carried out. The Cathedral parish was crew before he was drafted into everything in between. It was a Father Tom Kramer, pastor of formed on Jan. 1, 1947 with 250 war to eventually fight as a U.S. great sense of pride knowing that the Cathedral from 1976-2008, registered families. By 1950, there Marine pilot in the South Pacific. our grandfather, who we never oversaw the $1.7 million project. were 410 families and, as the area Grandson and son of these two had a chance to meet, built that Some of the most notable changes of town developed, the parish grew men, Father John Guthrie who building.” were adding a gathering space, quickly to 715 families by 1955. is currently pastor at parishes in moving the baptismal font to the Today, the parish is home to 1,491 A major renovation New Salem, Center and Almont, center of the church, creating a families. Much of the Cathedral, inside served as the third pastor of the side chapel for smaller services, and out, remained virtually Cathedral from 2008-2012. There was only one parish renovating the interior of the unchanged through the 1980s. “That building has a very to the construction of church and converting the former When Bishop Kinney arrived deep link to my family,” Father the Cathedral—St. Mary’s. The front entrance into a Blessed in 1982, he wanted to renovate Guthrie said when asked about “cutoff” boundary at the time was Sacrament chapel. 5th street, Fr. Guthrie explained. the churches of the diocese to the Cathedral. “And, not just to Recently, a small-scale “And, we lived on the west side of conform to the directives of me personally. My family is on the renovation took place. In mid- that street so our family became Vatican II. In most parishes, the ground floor of that place.” August, the baptismal font was members at the Cathedral. The changes meant replacing the His grandfather had established moved from the center to what neighbors across the street altars, removing the canopies his construction business in St. had been recently the Blessed remained parishioners at St. over the altars, eliminating the Paul in the 1910s before coming Sacrament chapel and originally Mary’s.” communion rails and simplifying to Bismarck to work on Boniface From the beginning, the interiors. In many churches, the Continued on page 5 SEPTEMBER 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 5 Iconic structure completed in 1945 Continued from page 4 “He understood that this church and Josh Hill, spent their summer the form of a series of scrapbooks the main entrance before that. belongs to the people and break from the seminary working documenting the historical The space was converted into the watching him work, with Bishop at the Cathedral of the Holy building and life of the parish. area for . Placed near the Kinney, of course, but with the Spirit. Among their duties was to There are plans in the works entrance, baptism is the symbol, people in that process that took compile a history of the Cathedral for a public celebration of the theologically and sacramentally, as years, made an immense impact in commemoration of the 75th anniversary possibly this fall, but the entrance into the life of grace— on me.” anniversary. The trio did so in details are tentative. into the family of God. The pews in Father Guthrie recalled that he, the area where the font was will be Fr. Kramer and Bishop Kinney extended to add more seating. had the rare opportunity to get a Ordained in 1990, Fr. Guthrie true “bird’s eye” view from the top began his ministry as an associate and leave their mark for posterity in the very building that meant so at the steeple during the painting much to his family. During those portion of the renovation project. first years of the priesthood, he “There was a crane on site for the watched Fr. Kramer put in many painting, so we were able to go hours researching and consulting to the very top inside the steeple on the renovation project in the near the iron cross. While we were early ’90s. He returned as pastor up there, we were able to sign years later in 2008 which he said the cross beam. When I signed was an incredible blessing. that beam, I signed ‘grandson’ in “Both Msgr. Garvin, in the parentheses under my name. That early years, and then Fr. Kramer was a special moment for me.” were the only two pastors of the Preserving history Cathedral until I was appointed Father John Guthrie (second from the left) celebrates at the altar during his installation Three diocesan seminarians, Mass as pastor of the Cathedral parish in 2008. With him were (l-r) Bishop Paul Zipfel, Fr. there in 2008. When planning John Windsor, Greg Hilzendeger Tom Kramer and Fr. Paul Eberle. for that renovation began, I was a newly ordained priest and Fr. Kramer was a role model for me to watch him manage that kind of a project,” Fr. Guthrie expressed.

The Cathedral was last painted in 2016. The images of the bell tower openings were also changed. The gathering space was added to the south side in 1992-93. UPCOMING EVENTS

g THIRST 2020 and Diocesan event. For more information, call 701- weekends in this area are Sept. 25-27 about these incredible parishes, Youth Conference 852-4675. in Windom, Minn. and Nov. 13-15 in inspirational stories of faith and hope, The men’s THIRST and the Diocesan Medora. Early registration is highly and your chance to win one of the Youth Conference scheduled for Sept. g Dakota Hope Clinic tours recommended. For more information, daily drawings including books, gift 11-12 in Bismarck has been cancelled offered visit ndwwme.org or contact Rob and cards, RPR gear and a few surprises. due to COVID concerns. Please Dakota Hope Clinic, the pregnancy Angie at [email protected] watch for details and updates in the help clinic in Minot, is offering tours or 701-347-1998. g Catholic Daughter October issue of the Dakota Catholic to church youth groups on the first Sunday Oct. 18 Action regarding the future of THIRST Wednesday of each month during g Discover Peace group meets Catholic Daughter Sunday is and diocesan youth conferences. the school year. During the tour, Sept. 28 celebrated on the third Sunday students will have the opportunity Dakota Hope Clinic of Minot offers in October—on Oct. 18 this year. g Dakota Hope Clinic fundraisers to rotate through different learning small group sessions for women and Spirituality and service is the Sept. 21-22 stations. Each station will be men who seek peace and healing heart and soul foundation of the Minot’s pregnancy help clinic invites approximately 15 minutes in length. after a past abortion experience. Catholic Daughters of the Americas you to their annual Dakota Hope Church leaders will obtain permission The seven-week group session will providing spirituality and shared fundraising banquet on Monday, slips from parents of the students begin Monday, Sept. 28 from 6-8 p.m. activities under the support of Sept. 21 at the North Dakota State who would like to attend. Parents Anyone interested can call Dakota a vibrant national organization. Fair Event Center. New this year, a are encouraged to attend with their Hope at 701-852-4675 and ask for Members donate to charities, second banquet night will be held students. Tours will be from 6-7:30 Shelly, go to www.dakotahope. administer scholarship programs on Tuesday, Sept. 22 at the Mountrail p.m. unless a youth group needs a org and click on events or send a and strive to be helping hands. County South Complex in Stanley. specific time, arrangements can be confidential text to 978-705-3421 They embrace the principle of Doors open at 5:30 p.m. in Minot made. Different levels of tours will for more information or to register. faith working through love in the and 6 p.m. in Stanley. Dinner is at be offered so that student groups Pre-registration is required and promotion of justice, equality and 6:30 p.m. for both venues. One of the that have already been on the tour, the location will be disclosed upon the advancement of human rights youngest speakers on reproductive will have different presentations. Call registration. Sessions are free and and human dignity for all. Catholic issues, Rebekah Hagen, will be the Dakota Hope Clinic at 701-852-4675 confidential. Daughters worship together, pray guest speaker for both evenings. to schedule a free tour. together and help each other be Please RSVP by Sept. 7 to your table g Real Presence Radio fund drive the best Catholic women they can host or register at dakotahope. g Marriage Encounter Weekends Oct. 6-9 possibly be. For more information, org. Live-streaming of the Sept. 21 A Worldwide Marriage Encounter The Real Presence Radio network go to the N.D. CDA website at, banquet is available for those who Weekend is a private weekend away serves almost 1,000 parishes northdakotacatholicdaughters. wish to participate from home. Upon from the distractions of daily life for throughout 10 dioceses. Tune in org or on Facebook at ND Catholic registration at www.dakotahope. couples in good marriages. Give your to Real Presence Radio Oct. 6-9 Daughters of the Americas. org, a link well be sent to access the marriage this gift. The next available from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. to hear more 6 | Dakota Catholic Action Catholic Action Bringing Christ into everyday life SEPTEMBER 2020 Pandemic impacts parish outreach By LeAnn Eckroth for meals, food distribution and and fruit and DCA Writer most mission programs have been meat,” Sr. The COVID-19 pandemic has tabled indefinitely. Mary Michael spurred a serious spike in demand “Because of COVID, we have said. at a Mandan food bank and certain arrangements: social A box might community outreach program. distancing, using the hand include 40 to The use of services offered sanitizers and cleaning everything 50 pounds, by the Mother Teresa Outreach often,” Sister said. depending at Spirit of Life Church has Meal and food distribution on what is nearly tripled in most categories also changed to discourage close available, she according to June 2020 data contact among patrons. The explained compiled by the mission. weekly soup kitchen has been Funding The outreach served 1,677 suspended since the lockdown donations households, said Sr. Mary Michael, started mid-March. Daily hot also can be faith formation director, who adds meals once offered throughout the leveraged a many new people are seeking help. week have been replaced with cold long way to “There are so many ‘first-time’ sandwiches. Soup may be added fill more gaps to sandwich packs later when cold in supplies, people,” she noted. Since the pandemic, the daily meals are packaged to “grab-and-go” In June, the outreach program weather returns, said staff. said Hansen. for those in need. distributed food to about 956 “They come, grab and go. She credits adults, 824 children and 194 We pack the sandwich, cookies, the church senior citizens, Sr. Mary Michael banana depending upon how outreach office said. many they need,” said Sister Mary for fielding Michael. financial More help needed donations, “A lot of people have had Spiritual food ordering food to use our resources who have Despite extra restrictions and from the Great never been to a food bank before. protocols, the organizers of the Plains Food Maybe, because of layoffs, job Mother Teresa Outreach have not Bank and interruptions or the businesses lapsed in the spiritual mission. coordinating were just shut down. A lot of those Sister Mary Michael still prays donations from people are looking for additional with people as she finds them local grocery resources to try to bridge until the goods from the food pantry. stores, big box they either find another job or Counseling is still done one-on- stores and they go back to their original one and morning prayer services surplus from employer,” said Cheryl Hansen, continue weekdays at a safe restaurants, The Carmelite Sisters and the many volunteers log countless hours business and finance manager for distance inside the church. leaving the each month to make sure anyone in need gets a meal (or two) each the Spirit of Life Parish, who also “I find what is their need, what sisters time to day. oversees the church’s outreach we have and what I can do, I do,” tend to people program. she explained. in need. Sr. Mary Michael distributes Migrant farm workers and the Volunteers welcome homeless are also among those in multiple prayer leaflets, Bibles, need, said Sr. Mary Michael. and even masks sewn by With more demand for mission services, comes more The mission provided 2,859 parishioners as well to keep up work packing and loading. The daily meals in June. “A year ago, morale. volunteers have proven even more that would have been a thousand “The sisters do a great job of essential to the cause and more something,” Sr. Mary Michael letting the people be heard if they are welcome, said Sister. In June, said. “These are daily lunch bags.” need to talk, pray with them. there were 14 volunteers who Hansen estimates the outreach That’s a real important part of outreach. It’s not just food for the logged 179 hours, beyond the work was previously serving about the four Carmelite sisters do at the 70 people per day, but that has body. It’s spiritual food as well,” Hansen said. outreach. A University of Mary jumped to 300 daily. student group was among those “It’s the same thing for Technology helps who provided extra assistance poundage of food. … On a normal Longer-term food supplies apart recently. month, we used to provide 35,000 from the sandwich packs have Volunteers are taking extra precautions to 40,000 per month. Now, we are Modern miracle due to COVID-19 including wearing masks been expedited by a new software during distribution times. up to 75,000. In the last month, and card system for clients. It was Sr. Mary Michael likens the that has probably gone higher. I launched in early 2020 before the outreach mission to popular in Puerto Rico. “I get food services. haven’t determined July yet. June pandemic loomed. scripture. I love the people here.” went up,” Hanson said. Regulars and newcomers fill “Jesus was very compassionate Janelys Correa has used Despite help from Great Plains out a form detailing the needs of and gave the multitudes food,” she mission services for the past Food Bank, area restaurants, their household, home occupants said. “That was 5,000 men, not four years. Help is necessary businesses and generous and ages. They are then issued a including women and children. with three children and most of parishioners, the pandemic has scanner card and given the right Then, you see how many were her husband’s income going to spurred a much higher demand amount of supplies to support there, how many who lacked.” house payments alone. She is a from the mission’s resources. them. Dry, imperishable foods are She said in the same way, the homemaker and does not qualify “We need!” Sr. Mary Michael prepacked according to family/ mission provides care of people. for food stamps. Every two weeks, said. “We need more household household need. Additional “That is a miracle,” she said. she collects a food box from the items, cleaners, beds, mattresses, items like frozen, produce and In the past six years, Sister mission. “It helps us get stuff we pillows, furniture, tables. We need other available items are added Mary Michael said she has gotten need,” she said. more for cleaning, for showering, accordingly upon pickup day. to know the clients by name and She added that her family had shampoo, soap, conditioner, toilet She added, “We give 200 to they have grown close. “That stopped coming to the food pantry paper. We gave it because they 300 lunch packs a day. If there makes me so happy. As Jesus said, because of the COVID-19 outbreak couldn’t find anything from the are 10 people in their household, ‘my sheep I know. I call them by for about three months. stores. That was an essential item. they grab 10. If there are five, they name and they know mine.’” “We were scared about being We also need more canned food, grab five. Homeless people may Grateful for help safe. We just came here to get food fruits, nuts.” take enough for their lunch and A few people who utilize the and get back home.” The mission has the means to dinner.” services provided by the outreach Hansen said the COVID-19 store frozen meats, produce, fresh While they wait for their program attest to the need and are pandemic has definitely impacted garden vegetables, dairy products completed box, those receiving grateful for the help. ordinary people who do not and cheese and these donations donations mill around the Harlan Feist has been utilizing usually rely on food bank services. are welcome to the outreach donated clothing and furniture That has factored into the program. mission services at least two items available, said Sister Mary years for his household of increased demand at the mission. Sister Mary Michael is quick Michael. three, including a son. Among People may help the outreach to thank parishioners, the Sister Mary Michael makes it the services is a regular food via donations, and praying for the community and businesses for her business to get to know the basket. “It’s been great. I just get program and the mission sisters, what they can do. Other donations people getting help. They are disability. So, it’s not really a lot she said. “Financially, they can come from local parishes in the much more than a number to her of money. “It’s food and clothing, support us. We take donations area, she said. “Since I handle registration, I dental work.” of certain kinds of clothing, Safety practices know how many members are in Ida Rivera uses the food bank depending on season, and The spike in demand is their house. One family has nine for food, groceries and clothing furniture.” complicated with necessary children, one adult and two senior about once per month. Hurricane “Those who show mercy will safety practices to guard against citizens. One box is not enough. Maria caused hard times for her receive double. God provides,” Sr. COVID-19 at the church and I will tell them to give two boxes. and she lost three family members Mary Michael added. gathering spaces. Large gatherings Then, we add more vegetables SEPTEMBER 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 7

God’s Share Appeal “All good giving and every perfect gift is from above.” James 1:17

The Diocese of Bismarck is not just one person, it is not just one parish, it is an entire diocese which is the Kingdom of God in western North Dakota.

My Dear Brothers and We are… Sisters in Christ, 61,862 Catholic people 97 Parishes Our 63rd Annual God’s Share Appeal is upon us. This appeal is very 1 Bishop important to the diocese as your gift 59 Priests helps to fund the spiritual, pastoral, 9 Retired Priests educational and temporal works critical in forming our families, children 21 Seminarians and all individuals yearning for the love and mercy of God. 85 Permanent This year’s goal is $3,261,100. With your donation, we will be able to Deacons provide the necessary funding that enables the Catholic Church in western North Dakota to form our 21 seminarians and 8 diaconate candidates; 8 Men in Diaconate train our religious education catechists and adult faith formation leaders; Formation help our young people grow in faith and prepare for the reception of the 1 Diocese Sacraments; promote the dignity of life and marriage, and so much more. Our faith is lived in our parishes and around our dinner tables. Our faith Living and Sharing our Faith touches everything we do and everything we have. In 2019, we celebrated: As Catholics, we are called to share our faith, love and gratitude for all 1,106 Baptisms we have been given. Your gift to the God’s Share Appeal helps provide all of the vital programs and services that are highlighted in this brochure. 912 First Communions Please read this brochure to learn how these offices dispense the Lord’s 710 Con rmations tender mercies to thousands of individuals and families in our diocese. 237 Marriages Our website, www.bismarckdiocese.com has additional information on our offices and programs, as well as materials that will inform, educate 778 Deaths and inspire you. I have chosen, “All good giving and every perfect gift is from above,” James 1:17 as our theme for our 2020 appeal. Our loving and generous God has blessed each one of us with so many blessings. Through God’s infinite grace, each of us possesses special gifts meant to glorify Him and We Respond as Disciples . . . his kingdom here on Earth. As baptized Catholics, one way we show our After re ecting on the importance of appreciation for God’s blessings in our lives is by sharing those gifts and the vital works of formation, talents with others. outreach and education funded through You play a very important and necessary role in our diocesan family! the God’s Share Appeal and how you can help, I need you and your prayers and financial support to keep our church Please re ect on the many gifts you alive and vibrant to serve you and your loved ones for generations to come. have received from God, including We simply cannot continue to do the Lord’s work without your support. your family and  nancial blessings. I am so deeply grateful to you for your continued prayers and financial Next, about how God wants you to support you give to the Annual God’s Share Appeal. May the Lord’s pray abundant blessings be yours today and always. use the gifts He has entrusted to your care. Sincerely yours in our Lord, Jesus Christ, Then, decide how you will share your blessings with those in need and to support the mission of your Diocesan Church. Please prayerfully discern how you respond Most Reverend David D. Kagan to God’s generosity in your life by making Bishop of Bismarck a generous pledge to the God’s Share Appeal that impacts thousands of lives in western North Dakota each year. Diocese of Bismarck “All good giving and every perfect gift is from above.” September 12-13, 2020 James 1:17 8 | Dakota Catholic Action SEPTEMBER 2020 SEPTEMBER 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 9

Stewardship and the God’s Share Appeal The God’s Share Appeal is based on the concept of Christian Stewardship. Stewardship is centered on the daily recognition that we are not the absolute owners of ourselves, our time, our talents, or material goods. Rather, we have received every gift of nature and grace from God. Through Baptism we are called to use our time, talent and treasure in a responsible manner for our families, our parish communities, the pastoral, educational and religious ministries of the diocese, and for the global ministries of the universal Church. Stewardship is not about just giving in order to fi ll a need. It is about living a life that shows gratitude to the Lord for our lives, our skills and our resources. Stewardship is . . . • Receiving God’s Gifts Gratefully • Nurturing God’s Gifts Responsibly • Sharing God’s Gifts Justly • Returning God’s Gifts Abundantly This year’s God’s Share Appeal theme is “All good giving and every perfect gift is from above.” James 1:17 September 12-13, 2020 Every good thing we have comes from God: our families, our careers, our Catholic faith, our children and grandchildren. Being thankful for all those gifts we have received, we share a portion of our treasure, expressing our love as a Christian steward - Four seminarians are schedule to supporting Christ’s work here in western North Dakota. Bishop Kagan poses with our two new be ordained to the priesthood in priests after their Ordination. June 2021. Consider Diff erent Possibilities 1. Make a pledge rather than a one-time gift. 2. Have your gift automatically deducted from your checking or savings account. 3. Use your credit card or debit card to make your gift. 4. Make your gift on-line at www.bismarckdiocese.com 5. Make your gift by “Text-to-Give”: text the $ amount to 701-401-1247. 6. Make your gift by a percentage or a specifi c dollar amount. 7. Increase last year’s gift by a percentage or a specifi c dollar amount. 8. Pledge one percent of your income. 7. Make your gift using stocks, bonds, grain, livestock, securities, real estate, or other personal property, which may have greatly increased in value. Should Offi ce of Vocations you be considering this type of gift, contact the Offi ce of Stewardship and Your donation supports the Offi ce of Vocations. This year, Fr. Christian Smith and Fr. Mark Aune were Resource Development at (701) 222-3035 for assistance. ordained to the priesthood. In June 2021, four of our seminarians, Deacon Ben Franchuk, Deacon Nick Vetter, Deacon Jacob Degele and Deacon Greg Hilzendeger will be ordained to the priesthood. The other 15 seminarians will return to the seminary this fall. In addition, Bishop Kagan has accepted three Annual Household Income 1% Pledge Down Payment 11 Monthly Payments additional men who are also beginning formation this fall. $12,000 $120 $10.00 $10.00

AUGUST 2019 ESE.COM WWW.BISMARCKDIOC $24,000 $240 $20.00 $20.00 VOL. 78 NO. 7 Catholic Action Dakota Reporting on Catholic action in western ND since 1941 $48,000 $480 $40.00 $40.00 Well done, good and faithful servant!

The Most Reverend Paul A. Zipfel, Bishop Emeritus died peacefully Sunday, July 14 at a nursing home in St. Louispice awhilefter an under the care of hos extended and debilitating struggle $60,000 $600 $50.00 $50.00 with Alzheimer’s disease. He was 83 years old. His approachable and authentic nature will be how Bishop Zipfel will be remembered during his time as our chief shepherd. Few people ever forgot an encounter infectious, ever- with him and his present smile. issue of the We devote this Dakota Catholic Action to Bishop Zipfel and the gifts he left through $90,000 $900 $75.00 $75.00 his priests, the Catholic schools, his employees and, you, the faithful people of the diocese. Upon his arrival in Bismarck, he stated emphatically, “I tell you that my acceptance of this calls, is unconditional—in other word with my whole heart.” er And, that is what we rememb about our beloved shepherd from UVWZRUGV²KLV VRPHRIKLVYHU\¿ $120,000 $1,200 $100.00 $100.00 deep and unconditional love for the people of God. Bishop Zipfel, having been born and raised in the Midwest,of vibrant culture understood the hearty North Dakotans, blending right in with the traditions of food, vocations and Catholic education. friendship and fellowship. He was His commitment to assigning DVFRPIRUWDEOHLQRɤFLDOPHHWLQJVowd young priests to be chaplains as he was entertaining a cr and teach in our Catholicre schoolsfocus to with his impromptu magic tricks. turned around our enti $180,000 $1,800 $150.00 $150.00 The native of Missouri had spent foster vocations to the priesthood his entire life near the city eopof St.le of and religious life for young men Louis, but embraced the p, in turn, and women. our rural diocese and you Bishop Zipfel left a letter wholeheartedly embraced him. containing brief and humbleeral M ass The long, 20-month waitent for as instructions for the fun Bishop Zipfel’s appointm sermon not to be about him. e about the the sixth Bishop of Bismarck He wanted it to b was announced on New Year’s priesthood. His entire life was Eve 1996. At age 61, the auxiliary about the priesthood. May the ELVKRSIURP6W/RXLVZDVWKH¿UVW words of the stories that appear outside the Province bishop from St. Paul here speak for his legacy. of the Archdiocese of We pray, almighty and merciful your (North and South Dakota ando God, that as you made Please consider 1% of your income as a gift to the Minnesota) to be appoint installeded t servant Bishop Paul Zipfel an serve Bismarck. He was ambassador for Christ on earth, on Feb. 20, 1997, at the Cathedral so you may raise him to be sea livested of the Holy Spirit. with Christ in heaven, Whover. A LOOK INSIDE During his 14 years as Bishop and reigns forever and e of Bismarck, one of the maney Amen. indelible marks left upoonn toth diocese was his devoti 2020 God’s Share Appeal. Make your pledge today.

Vocations increase Committed to education Vocations from the diocese increased Bishop Zipfel began assigning full-time dramatically under the leadership of chaplains to the three diocesan...... Page Catholic 4 Bishop Zipfel ...... Pages 6 high schools ...... Thank you for being good stewards of God’s varied grace.

PRAY FOR OUR 2020-2021 REV. MR. JACOB DEGELE REV. MR. BEN FRANCHUK REV. MR. GREG HILZENDEGER Theology IV Theology IV Theology IV St. Joseph Queen of Peace Cathedral SEMINARIANS Dickinson Dickinson Bismarck

REV. MR. NICK VETTER PAUL GARDNER JAKE MAGNUSON LOGAN OBRIGEWITCH GRANT DVORAK BENJAMIN WANNER Theology IV Theology III Theology III Theology III Theology III Theology III St. Anthony St. Mary’s Little Flower St. Joseph’s Cathedral St. Joseph’s Linton New England Minot Beulah Bismarck Mandan

JOSH HILL DUSTIN JOHNS RYAN MARTIRE STEVEN VETTER JOHN WINDSOR KONNOR PETERSON Theology II Theology II Theology II Theology II Theology II Pre-Theology II Cathedral St. Leo the Great Cathedral St. Bernard’s St. Mary’s Spirit of Life Bismarck Minot Bismarck Bel eld Bismarck Mandan

New Seminarians Joseph Richter Charles Reichert Joe Schon ERIC ARTZ ISAIAH FISCHER COLTON STEINER ISAIAH JILEK Theology I Theology I Theology I College II Little Flower Cathedral St. Joseph St. Wenceslaus Minot Bismarck Dickinson Dickinson 10 | Dakota Catholic Action SEPTEMBER 2020 Students return to University of Mary By Patti Armstrong DCA Writer Students from across the country are returning to college campuses for a fall semesters that look very different from fall in 2019. According a survey by the website, The Chronicle of Higher Education, of the 1,200 schools contacted, 55 percent plan for in- person learning, 10 percent will remain exclusively online, and the rest plan on a combination. The University of Mary in Bismarck will bring students back into the classroom this semester. Freshman move-in date is Sept. 5. But, even as they return to classrooms, online instruction will be available for flexibility. Safety protocols and a five-level system has also been put in place to ease students back while balancing health, safety and optimum University staff followed safety protocols when giving tours of campus to prospective students and their family members this summer. learning. Adaptations include: classes getting moved to larger As for fall sports, the Northern rooms or split up and staggered, Sun Intercollegiate Conference improved room ventilations, (NSIC), with 16 member schools directed traffic flow and increased including the University of Mary, sanitation. Wearing masks will terminated the 2020 season in all be mandatory only when social sports through December 31. The distancing is not possible. announcement comes days after Students eager to return its governing body, the National Jerry Richter, Executive Vice Collegiate Athletic Association President at UMary said that (NCAA), cancelled all 2020 fall after being forced to switch to championships. This decision classes online in March, students currently allows for the start of repeatedly expressed the message: the winter season and training on “Thanks for caring about us, November 27, with competition you did a good job online, beginning January 1, 2021. Seniors but please don’t do that to us have the option of postponing again.” Restricting education to their final year of competition exclusively online takes out the until the fall of 2021. human element, according to him. “While I’m disappointed with “Every good Christian knows that this necessary outcome, I want to relationship is important and you be clear that this decision has been learn that through community,” made to best ensure the health he said. “That is what students and safety of everyone involved in Safety protocols and a five-level system has also been put in place to ease students back while balancing health, safety and optimum learning. missed and what they want.” Marauders Athletics,” University of Mary Athletic Director Dale Benjamin Helget, a senior levels monitoring system which across the United Sates to offer Lennon said in a release issued double majoring in psychology and allows the university to turn the 24/7 dining. Its Crow’s Nest by the university on the day the Catholic studies wholeheartedly dial up or down depending on restaurant seats over 600 people cancelation announcement was agreed. infection rates on campus and in for less crowding and allows made on Aug. 13. “As director of “The university, staff, and the community. students to eat wherever they athletics, I vigorously pursued students handled that transition Each progressive level wish. the opportunity to compete until very well, but it was, by all means, involves increased precautionary “With large-sized classrooms, we no longer had another option. a stressful time of change,” he measures. For instance, Level but a small 14 to 1 student-to- The safety and well-being of our said. “I believe that UMary’s plan 1-New Normal would resume faculty-ratio, the University of scholar-athletes was the driving to be in person with the option usual activities under heightened Mary doesn’t have huge, crowded, force in our decision to cancel of online is a very good solution hygiene and cleaning standards. elbow-to-elbow learning quarters or suspend fall competition. to an unprecedented and difficult Level 2-Low Risk reduces seating with large auditorium-style Provisions are in place to assure problem. I will be the first to admit and self-service in the cafeteria, classes of 200 to 300 students, that athletes will not be put in a that I am excited for in-person and online instruction becomes that could otherwise cause safety compromising situation of having classes to begin, but by no means available upon request. The challenges,” Msgr. Shea said. “Our to make participation decisions do I want that at the expense of my tightest restrictions would be at strong online capabilities, remote that make them uncomfortable. fellow students or faculty’s safety.” Level 5-Critical where all classes location, on-campus healthcare Therefore, all athletes have the Katelyn Schmidt, a junior move to online with only essential services and spacious campus choice to ‘opt out’ of the fall majoring in elementary education employees working from campus. with overflow residence hall workout phase and retain their and minoring in Catholic Studies, capacity, give us the capabilities to athletic scholarship for the year.” The goal, according to Richter, studied on the Rome campus last is for the college experience not quarantine students, if needed, for fall (as did Helget), so she said it The plan to be interrupted and for it to a mandatory period of time, while was a big disappointment to have Before the COVID-19 take place in an atmosphere most still allowing them to learn online, spring semester back home cut pandemic even hit the United conducive to learning. before transitioning back into the short. States, at the direction of UMary “We are fully committed to have classroom.” “It felt like summer had arrived President Monsignor James as much of a normal school year as He also noted that last spring, early,” she said. “I am extremely Shea, they became one of the first possible and looked at the totality before students left campus excited to be back on campus. The universities to assemble an on- of what is best for the students,” and among the small number students, professors, and religious campus, 10-member COVID-19 Richter said. “A lot of study, that needed to stay, there on campus are one of my favorite emergency response team chaired discernment and prayer went into was no outbreak among their things about UMary, so it will by Richter and assisted by retired this. Life needs to go on and we students and or any community be great to see them and be with Brigadier General Dave Anderson, believe that they can be safe and transmission traced to the them in person.” coordinator of Military Student healthy.” University of Mary. Athletic programs Services at the UMary. The team In a statement, Msgr. “Our campus is meant to be developed the “Returning to Football, volleyball, and soccer Shea pointed out some of the experienced as a true home for Campus General Guidelines, players usually start arriving advantages at UMary during this students, a place of stability where Protocols and Monitoring System,” on campus in early August, but time such as its location outside they can learn and grow, not a an 18-page document that features this year, the fall seasons will be of the city and the fact that it is temporary place of residence,” he a five-level color-coded risk/action canceled or postponed. one of only a handful of campuses said. SEPTEMBER 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 11 Back to school Seminarians return to formation

The Bismarck Diocese has and Deacons Jacob Degele, Ben been blessed with 22 seminarians Franchuk and Greg Hilzendeger. studying for the priesthood this The diocese will send six men to academic year. The men are Rome this year. Those returning attending four seminaries across will be Deacon Nick Vetter, Grant the nation and abroad in St. Louis, Dvorak, Jake Magnuson, Josh Hill Denver, Washington, D.C. and and Steven Vetter. Seminarian at the Pontifi cal North American Isaiah Fischer is also attending College (PNAC) in Rome. the PNAC in Rome this year. He is In June, Fathers Mark Aune among the three men advancing to and Christian Smith were ordained major seminary, along with Artz to the holy priesthood by Bishop and Steiner. Kagan. Three new seminarians Amid COVID-19 concerns and joined this summer. The new restrictions, all the seminarians seminarians are Joseph Richter, will be attending classes in person. Photos by Deacon Joe Krupinsky Charles Reichert and Joe Schon. Those men traveling to and from Diocesan seminarians, Deacon Nick Vetter, Grant Dvorak, Paul Gardner, Logan All are Bismarck natives and Rome, according to Diocesan Obrigewitch and Deacon Jacob Degele, led the procession into the priestly ordination alumni of St. Mary’s Central High Vocations Director Fr. Jordan Mass of their brother seminarians, Fathers Mark Aune and Christian Smith (in the back), in June at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit. School. Dosch, will be doing so on their Richter and Reichert will be travel visa already in place. entering at the College II level Diaconate ordination and Schon at College I and all are studying at St. John Paul II Seminarian Deacon Nick Vetter Seminary in Washington, D.C. was schedule to be ordained to this fall. In addition to these new the transitional diaconate in men, diocesan seminarian Isaiah October. His uncle, Bishop Austin Jilek will also be studying at JPII Vetter, of the Diocese of Helena, Seminary. was scheduled to be the main celebrant for the ordination at the Seminarian Konnor Peterson PNAC, where he had served on will be attending St. John Vianney the faculty years earlier. However, Seminary in Denver. Eleven due to the uncertainly surrounding men will be studying at Kenrick- the coronavirus pandemic and Glennon Seminary in St. Louis international travel, Bishop Kagan including Colton Steiner, Eric ordained Vetter on Aug. 15 at the Artz, Ryan Martire, John Windsor, Cathedral of the Holy Spirit (see Dustin Johns, Ben Wanner, photos and story on page 3). Twenty-two diocesan seminarians are headed back to school for the academic year this Logan Obrigewitch, Paul Gardner fall across the nation and abroad in St. Louis, Denver, Washington, D.C. and at the Pontifi cal —Staff report North American College (PNAC) in Rome. Dakota Hope Clinic fundraising banquet Minot’s pregnancy help clinic unplanned and fueled, instead, by At age 20, she began speaking invites you to their annual Dakota fi rsthand experience. She became across the United States and Hope fundraising banquet on pregnant at 17 with her son, Eli, sharing her own story of hope Monday, Sept. 21 at the North and with a second child while in and redemption. A passionate Dakota State Fair Event Center. her fi rst year of college. advocate for grace-centered New this year, a second Feeling ashamed and fearing outreach, Rebekah Hagan banquet night will be held that she would lose her family’s uses her story to unravel the on Tuesday, Sept. 22 at the support and have to drop out of mindset of women in unplanned Mountrail County South Complex school, Rebekah thought that pregnancies, and to equip and in Stanley. Doors open at 5:30 raising two children alone would encourage others to lead with p.m. in Minot and 6 p.m. in be impossible. At just over seven hope and compassion. Stanley. Dinner is at 6:30 p.m. weeks pregnant, she began a Rebekah is a graduate of Rebekah Hagen for both venues. Please RSVP medication abortion that would William Jessup University, and by Sept. 7 to your table host or later change her life. she and her family reside in life-affi rming pregnancy help center in northwestern North register at dakotahope.org. For Her story, however, did not Roseville, California where she Dakota. The Christian non-profi t more information, call 701-852- end after taking the abortion works for her local pregnancy organization was formed to help 4675. pill. Minutes after leaving the center. women and men involved in an One of the youngest speakers clinic, she experienced a radical Live-streaming of the Sept. unintended pregnancy. Because on reproductive issues, Rebekah change of heart and turned to the 21 banquet is available for those of God’s grace and generous Hagen, will be the guest speaker internet to search for a way out. who wish to participate from donors, they have seen more than for both evenings. Feeling determined to reverse home. Upon registration at www. 90% of their pregnant clients her mistake, Rebekah underwent dakotahope.org, a link well be Raised in a Christian home make a choice for life since what most thought would be an sent to access the event. where abortion was never opening in 2013. All services at impossible attempt to save her discussed, Rebekah’s role in About Dakota Hope Dakota Hope Clinic are 100% free the pro-life movement was baby. Dakota Hope Clinic is the only and confi dential.

PRAY FOR THE PRIESTS, RELIGIOUS, DEACONS SERVING OUR DIOCESE AND THOSE IN FORMATION AND LAY MINISTERS An invitation from the Bismarck-Mandan Serra Club Sept. 1 Fr. Benedict Fischer, Sept. 7 Fr. John Guthrie Sept. 15 Sr. Dolores Heidt, OSB Sept. 23 Deacon Robert OSB Sept. 8 Fr. Steven Folorunso Sept. 16 All seminarians and Stockert Sept. 2 Deacon Joseph Mattson Sept. 9 Br. George Maufort, religious in formation Sept. 24 Sr. Susan Lardy, OSB Sept. 3 Sem. Deacon SDS Sept. 17 Msgr. Chad Gion Sept. 25 Fr. Tom Grafsgaard Nick Vetter Sept. 10 Sr. Claire Schmitt, OSB Sept. 18 Deacon Rex McDowall Sept. 26 Deacon Joel Melarvie Sept. 4 All lay ministers Sept. 11 Fr. John Paul Gardner Sept. 19 All liturgical ministers Sept. 27 Fr. Paul Becker Sept. 5 Sr. Eleanor Stockert, Sept. 12 Deacon Stephen Mays Sept. 20 Sisters ministering in Sept. 28 Fr. Brian Gross OSB Sept. 13 Br. Gregory Senger, Fort Yates Sept. 29 Deacon Mike Mellmer Sept. 6 Sr. Anna Rose Ruhland, OSB Sept. 21 Sem. Paul Gardner Sept. 30 Br. Benet Tvedten, OSB Sept. 14 Sr. Hildegarde Sept. 22 Br. Elias Thienpont, OSB Urlacher, OSB OSB 12 | Dakota Catholic Action SEPTEMBER 2020 Dwelling in the heart of the Church Some fi nd a secondary vocation as a lay Carmelite By Amanda Evinger imagine DCA Writer what life At times, we desire to launch would be out “into the deep” with the net like without of our Catholic faith. We might prayer. It feel that our prayer life is a little would feel dull, and we may be seeking more so empty.” meaningful conversations with Billy fi nds Our Lord. Or, we may simply want the strength to off er our life back to God in the he needs to fullest, most beautiful way that we live out his possibly can as lay persons amid “secondary this dark world, so desperately in vocation” need of His mercy. through Many of us have these longings, fellowship with The group, named Our Lady of Divine Providence, are lay who gather monthly at Spirit of Life Church in but we aren’t sure where to turn, Mandan and this is where a lay order other lay membership can come in. Carmelites to be a lay Carmelite, too. It really is so confused and broken,” Cheryl strengthens our marriage, and explained. “It is a very diffi cult “When I was in formation about who gather monthly at Spirit impacts the way we live out our time in history. The things of the 20 years ago, a religious sister told of Life Church in Mandan. The lives together.” world are being idolized, which is me that the lay Carmelite vocation group, named Our Lady of Divine against the fi rst commandment to is a secondary vocation, and Providence, includes several The desire to be a lay Carmelite honor and serve God. Now, more that I need to take it seriously,” dedicated members who commit is not just something that comes to than ever, the Church really needs said Billy Wolf. “She reminded themselves to praying at least a person, it is something rooted in lay people to be lights of Christ’s me that although it comes after two offi ces of the breviary and the a divine call from God the Father. love. We all need to pray a lot, and my vocation to take care of my rosary daily, coming to monthly “God truly calls us out!” Cheryl help one another to grow closer to family, I shouldn’t make light of meetings, attending daily Mass explained. “If you look at the God.” it. It is not just something I do, if possible, wearing the Scapular history of the Carmelites, and how it is something I am, and there is of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and unique they were, you see that Cheryl wants to encourage much more to it than just saying spending time in meditation every they had to be true contemplatives. other Catholics to consider joining prayers.” day. Being a lay Carmelite helps me the lay Carmelites, so that more souls can be “love” in the heart of Looking back, Billy is grateful Most of all, they strive to off er see how God is working things the Church, as was St. Therese of he’s had his lay Carmelite their entire lives to Our Lord, out in my life, even if I don’t Lisieux. commitment to turn to over the serving Mother Church and all always understand. It allows years. It has given him the graces those around them and entrusting me to keep a good perspective. “I hope that people will be he needs to serve his family the their souls to the protection of Our Becoming a lay Carmelite isn’t willing to just come and see what best he can. Lady of Mt. Carmel. just about professing something Our Lady is off ering to the lay or becoming ‘someone else.’ It is Carmelites,” Cheryl said. “I hope “My wife Theresa and I have “Our Lady called me to look about becoming who God created our group can be an answer to fi ve children, and I fi rst became a deeper into the contemplative you to be.” prayer for them. I invite anyone, lay Carmelite when my oldest child aspect of , and married or single, who has a desire was 17,” he shared. “I made sure this is what led me to join the lay Throughout the history of to look deeper into Carmelite I didn’t take too much time away Carmelites,” said Cheryl Hanson, Catholicism, numerous canonized spirituality, to visit us and learn from the family to say my prayers, who serves as the contact person and faithful souls dedicated what it is all about.” so I would get up early before for Our Lady of Divine Providence themselves to lay orders, fi nding in work and make a Holy Hour, and lay Carmelite group. “Overall, it them a path to sanctity. Informational meeting on Sept. 9 go to daily Mass when I was able has helped my spiritual journey Devotion of St. John Paul II Those who are interested in so much, and given me what I to. Having a great prayer life has “St. John Paul II was a lay becoming a lay Carmelite must: needed to live out my faith. It has really helped guide me, and give Carmelite, and this fostered his be a practicing Catholic living been a very important, powerful me the strength and wisdom to great devotion to Our Lady,” in communion with the Church experience for me.” raise my children. It has allowed Cheryl commented. “He did a (no marriage irregularities); be me to guide my children in the Lay Carmelites like Cheryl beautiful job of weaving his own at least 18 years old; obtain a right direction. Overall, it has appreciate the many ways in contemplative Marian spirituality recommendation from their parish helped tremendously!” which their secondary vocation into everything he did.” priest or another priest that knows helps them live out their primary Today, Billy continues to Given what is happening in them well; not currently be a lay vocation. embrace the Carmelite spirituality the Church and in the world now, member of another or with all his heart, fi nding great “It is all about helping you people need to turn to prayer lay community; have good moral serenity and hope by doing so. live out your Catholic faith to like they never have before, with conduct; and desire to live and When he isn’t spending time with the best of your ability, during tremendous dedication and fervor. act in the spirit of the Carmelite his family or getting some work your everyday life,” Cheryl said. Prayer is a lifeline, the native charism. The next informational done, he can be found praying his “Being a lay Carmelite has really breath of those who sincerely meeting and registration for breviary, in the adoration chapel, helped me be a better wife and follow Christ. By belonging to a formation is scheduled on or at Mass. mother. My husband, Barry, is lay or third order, a Catholic can Wednesday, Sept. 9 at 6:30 p.m. “I began praying three offi ces also a lay Carmelite. Even though help lift Mother Church up from at Spirit of Life Catholic Church in of the breviary from the very he is a very active guy, and not her struggles, and give hope to all Mandan. For further information beginning, and I have never necessarily contemplative, he those around them. or to register, please contact saw the fruit of my Carmelite stopped since,” Billy said. “Now “The world we live in right now Cheryl at 701-527-4022. that I am retired, I pray all seven vocation, and decided he wanted offi ces every day. I am really drawn to silent prayer as well, and I love spending time alone with Jesus. My prayers keep me up to tune all the time. We are all called to prayer, community and ministry, but without putting prayer fi rst in our lives, the rest is not going to work out. If we pray, God will steer us in the right direction.” No matter what life seems to throw at him, Billy is profoundly grateful that he has the sturdy foundation of his lay Carmelite commitment to lean upon. And, he’s also glad he can share the “spiritual wealth” with others. “During the coronavirus lockdown, my wife Theresa and I were home a lot together, so we started praying the breviary together,” Billy said. “I am so thankful for my prayers. I can’t SEPTEMBER 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 13

Balancing Church & State CHRISTOPHER DODSON Helping Catholics discern their vote

Another election season is candidate or party. (See rule one.) to a party or maybe no party at all. we vote as upon us. There exist fi ve “rules” or Rule four: People make Proofs of this political practice Catholics. facts that we should keep in mind mistakes. abound. Not all Republicans are For one thing, it is not informed between now and the election. Admittedly, priests, deacons pro-life and not all Democrats voting. Find out where the Rule one: The Catholic Church or Catholic representatives have, are pro-abortion rights. Not candidate really stands and do does not support or oppose on rare occasions, said something every Democrat supports greater not make assumptions. Between political candidates or political they should not have said about restrictions on guns and not every now and the election, the North parties. candidates or parties. If you think Republican opposes limiting Dakota Catholic Conference will Remember that, share it with this has happened, make sure gun ownership. Republicans in provide questions for you to ask your friends, affi x it to your you have all the information and some states are very pro-school the candidates. Make use of them. refrigerator, email it to yourself. contact the diocese. In charity, choice while in other states, Second, drawing assumptions Between now and the election, remember that the statement does like North Dakota, Republicans about candidates based on parties we will hear and read claims that not represent the position of the have been resistant to the idea. plays into a tribalism and division the Catholic Church supports or Church. Within the North Dakota House that is not good for American opposes a candidate or party. In Rule fi ve: In the United States, of Representatives, Republicans politics. fact, it is against federal law for we vote for individuals, not parties. can be divided into three or more The North Dakota Catholic the Church to take a position on Unlike most western nations, distinct voting groups. Conference has developed a a candidate or political party. The the United States is not a Nevertheless, when it comes website to help Catholics discern Church is not interested in partisan parliamentary system. In those time to vote, we lump all their vote. It is called “Your Faith, politics. Instead, the Church seeks countries, people vote for a Democrats into one group and all Your Vote.” It will be periodically to bring attention and clarity to the “government” represented by a Republicans into another group. updated between now and moral and human dimensions of party. The party has a platform Worse, we assume that all of them the election. You can fi nd it at the issues. which it will implement while in believe everything that was thrown yourfaithyourvote.org. The dioceses of North Dakota go government. The parties rarely into a party platform statement g Dodson serves as executive director of the further than the law by directing allow elected offi cials to stray from adopted long before or we assume N.D. Catholic Conference, the offi cial liaison that materials that mention specifi c the party program. that every candidate agrees for the dioceses of Fargo and Bismarck in mat- candidates or political parties in In the United States, including with his/her party’s presidential ters of public policy. any manner may not be distributed the individual states, we vote for nominee. at or by any parish or diocesan individuals who happen to belong This has consequences for how entity, even if the materials do not explicitly support or oppose a candidate. Rule two: Talking about issues is not the same as endorsing or opposing a candidate or party. The Church, including its leaders, has an obligation to talk about the issues. Benedict XVI wrote: “The Church cannot and must not take upon herself the political battle to bring about the most just society possible. She cannot and must not replace the State. Yet at the same time she cannot and must not remain on the sidelines in the fi ght for justice.” (, no. 28) In our candidate and party- Why Children Don't Tell About Sexual Abuse centric world, merely speaking on issues is perceived as code for talking about candidates and parties. In truth, this is backwards. The Church’s social doctrine stems We often hear the question, “Why don’t children tell someone when something bad is happening to them?” from transcendent and universal and many parents believe, “My child would tell me if someone was abusing them.” truths. It was there before any Statistics show that 73% of children do not tell anyone about sexual abuse for at least one candidate or party took a position year. The grooming process is manipulative and designed to keep children silent. Frighteningly, it is also on the issues. If a candidate or effective. party falls on the wrong side of Catholic doctrine, that is of their • Relationship of Child to Abuser - Only 7% of child sexual abuse cases involve abuse by a stranger. It is doing, not the Church’s. The most likely that the child knows, trusts, and loves his or her abuser. Church will not and cannot change • Shame and Fear - In many cases, victimized children blame themselves for sexual abuse. This is often just because politicians want her to encouraged by abusers, who may tell the children that they are at fault or that no one will believe them. follow their lead. Abusers may tell them that it’s a “secret,” and threaten to harm the child or their loved ones if the secret is Rule three: Don’t believe everything you hear. told. Every election cycle, we • Erosion of Boundaries – Sexual abuse is generally a process rather than an immediate action. Abusers hear about priests or deacons build relationships with children and their families. They challenge boundaries with hugs, swats, rubs, and pats who supported or opposed a can be made to look like innocent actions. By the time sexual abuse occurs, the child is dependent on and candidate or party in his homily. emotionally controlled by the abuser, confused as to what behavior is acceptable and whether boundaries Investigation usually shows that have been crossed. the claim is not true. Usually, the • Adults don’t ask. It is imperative to encourage children to discuss things that make them feel priest actually talked only about uncomfortable, to talk about secrets, and to help them understand safe and unsafe touching. If your child or a issues. child in your care does disclose abuse, listen. False reporting is rare, between 2 and 10 percent. Believe the Social media poses diffi cult child and get them help. problems. Already, posts are circulating stating that Catholics must vote in a particular way. Some of those posts come from organizations claiming to be “Catholic.” In truth, those posts are not offi cially Catholic. Remember, Catholic organizations cannot For more information on keeping kids safe, call (701) 323-5626. legally oppose or support a 14 | Dakota Catholic Action SEPTEMBER 2020 CHAD PROSOSKI The beauty of repurposing and restoring

Despite practicing social the possible environmental impact we made a more intentional eff ort repurpose distancing, we remain social of so many disposable items? And, to repair and restore items before what creatures. How then should we live if we start thinking deeply about replacing them? It seems there are we have together in society with others? all the extra items we are throwing how-to videos for everything these as good Thankfully, we have a gift from the away, then what about the normal days so you don’t always have to stewards of the environment— Church about how to live together trash we throw out? be a professional. What a blessing and of our donor support. Tables in this world. These teachings are This summer, I made a trip to it is to see experts (and some not- became printer stands and desks often referred to collectively as the landfi ll for the fi rst time in so-experts) share their tips on all or chairs that no longer fi t worked . Amid our years and was shocked with the sorts of repairs. great in another employee’s offi ce. lives, it can be helpful for us to enormous scale of it. While others We may be surprised by what Catholic social teaching also look back at these principles as a have told me stories of going to the we can do to restore or repurpose reminds us that people are more guiding light from time to time. junkyard years ago to salvage old things when we try. For instance, important than things. There is Care for God’s creation is one parts, I had forgotten about how a co-worker let me know some a strong satisfaction in restoring of the main themes of Catholic much garbage there is because we free bikes were available from the beauty of physical goods or social teaching. According to the rarely see it. As I refl ected on this, a neighbor. Some needed new making them work again, but USCCB’s materials, “We show I wondered how we could help, tubes, tires or break repairs. how much more is the beauty our respect for the Creator by and how often do we try to restore At fi rst it was tough fi xing up and satisfaction in restoring our stewardship of creation. Care or repurpose before replacing? those and other old used bikes the lives and souls of others? for the earth is not just an Earth While we often think of I had collected. It took a couple Catholic Charities North Dakota’s Day slogan, it is a requirement recycling and not being wasteful weekends and at least a few adoption, pregnancy, counseling of our faith. We are called to there is so much more to being evenings of learning, but soon and guardianship services off er protect people and the planet, good stewards of the earth. In enough my kids all had working hope and healing to restore human living our faith in relationship fact, even recycling isn’t free from bikes with others to grow into dignity, remembering that we are with all of God’s creation. This problems. This past year, there and even some extra bikes to give all brothers and sisters in Christ. environmental challenge has were national reports about too away. Our supporters help make this fundamental moral and ethical many recyclables in the United Everyone understands what possible. What an important and dimensions that cannot be States because China and other it means to repair appliances rewarding mission to become a ignored.” countries have stopped importing or restore worn furniture, but part of! Right now, much of our focus them. This could possibly impact what about repurposing them? g Prososki is the Director of Development is on preventing the spread of the availability of options for Repurposing can simply be fi nding and Community Relations for Catholic COVID-19. Thus, we are taking recycling in the future. another use for something before Charities North Dakota (CCND). For more many extra precautions as a When we think of caring for the getting rid of it. At Catholic than 90 years, CCND and its supporters have society. These steps can be Charities North Dakota, we been putting their faith in action helping environment we are challenged to people and changing lives. Chad can be good and necessary to slow the look beyond the simple answer to recently moved around some reached at [email protected] or pandemic, but have we considered reduce, reuse and recycle. What if offi ces. This challenged us to 701-235-4457. Ag Attitudes JAMES ODERMANN The ultimate goal is sunset with God “How many more sunsets will possible while the roller coaster is rapidly as darkness approaches. extensions you get to see?” a long-time friend in motion when crops need to be I refl ect, “How many more of grace asked me as we visited about how planted, tended for and harvested, sunsets do I have?” For me, I have given by the crops and livestock were growing. livestock needs to be cared for and the blessing of seeing spectacular Holy Spirit? The question certainly brought the fed. sunsets and enjoying God’s native And, the most life defi ning concept of my mortality front and So, I thought I would go and beauty close up. question: “Am I ready for what lies center, the reality that change is enjoy the sunset. The view was like Yet, I refl ected and many ahead?” God gave me life, showers inevitable. many others that I had seen: the questions fl oated through my me with infi nite love and extends This kind of frankness springs heat of the day lessens, the colors mind as I viewed the day turn into unconditional forgiveness. I need up often in rural settings, but the of yellow recede, the orange hues of night. Do I enjoy the native beauty to acknowledge this because the underlying message is the same— evening creep into the view, the air of family, friends, associates, ultimate sunset is with God. time continues moving ahead. (usually) becomes more still and strangers? Am I receptive to others Care to join me? One axiom in the agriculture the softness of dew creeps upon the like Jesus was while here on earth? g Odermann lives with his wife, Leona, industry is “next year.” The adage land. Has my life been an answer to on the family farm in Billings County. They is the admission that better times The buttes of the badlands jut God’s call? Would Jesus welcome are members of the Church of St. Patrick are in the future, that quitting up in the distance, some over 20 me as a disciple? Would my earthly in Dickinson and assist with eucharistic this vocation of farming and/or miles away, and begin to slowly sisters and brothers say they saw celebrations there as well as at the Churches ranching is not going to happen—at disappear as the sun loses its glow my thoughts, words and actions as of St. Bernard (Belfi eld) and St. Mary (Medora). least not this year. and disappears on the horizon, The roller coaster of ups and leaving me with the wild animals. downs in production agriculture is Deer emerge. Sounds of various constant. Two choices are obvious: vermin that inhabit the landscape scream or enjoy the ride. The other materialize and move about is to get off the ride, but that is not cautiously at fi rst and then more

PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN The Diocese of Bismarck is fi rmly committed to the health and protection of our children, young people and vulnerable adults. With the hope of healing the pain and suff ering from sexual abuse in the Catholic Church, we encourage anyone who has suff ered from this abuse to please come forward www.CatholicCharitiesND.org and let us know. To report allegations of sexual abuse, please contact: Dale Eberle, Chancellor, Diocese of Bismarck, PO Box 1575, Bismarck, ND 58502- 1575. Phone: 701.223.1347 or 1.877.405.7435. Email the victim assistance coordinator, Joyce McDowall, at [email protected]. Thousands of North Dakotans helped through our programs: CODE OF CONDUCT * Adults Adopting Special Kids(AASK) The Catholic Church must be exemplary: Clergy, staff , whether diocesan or parish, and volunteers are held accountable for their behavior. To enable * Counseling for individuals, couples and families the highest level of accountability, there must be a clear and unambiguous * Guardianship for adults with intellectual disabilities defi nition of appropriate behavior. To this end, this Code of Conduct is defi ned * Pregnancy, Parenting, and Adoption Services(PPAS) for the Diocese of Bismarck and it provides a foundation for implementing eff ective and enforceable standards for all personnel. View the Code of Bismarck Office: (701) 255-1793 Conduct at http://www.bismarckdiocese.com. Minot Office: (701) 852-2854 SEPTEMBER 2020 Dakota Catholic Action | 15 Making Sense out of Bioethics FR. TAD PACHOLCZYK Tragedies in human medical experimentation

Between 1932 and 1972, a series of highly determine right from wrong by focusing of exploitative human unethical medical studies were performed on on a calculation of consequences (and so is experimentation. a group of 400 African-Americans by doctors sometimes also called “consequentialism”), In each of these, from the U.S. Public Health Service. asserting that the best ethical choice is the researchers have Offi cially referred to as the Tuskegee Study one that produces “the greatest good for the been motivated by good goals like learning of Untreated Syphilis in the Negro Male, the greatest number” and maximizes “usefulness.” about disease, developing treatments and research protocol enrolled 399 impoverished For the Tuskegee experiments, the helping others. Finding treatments and sharecroppers from Macon County, Alabama, usefulness was the knowledge gained through making progress against disease is clearly very all of whom had syphilis, and a control group studying the progression of syphilis in human praiseworthy. But a good end cannot justify an of 201 others who were free of the disease. The patients, including what consequences (like immoral means. That is where the need for a 399 were never told that they had syphilis or blindness, insanity) typically can be expected non-utilitarian ethical understanding becomes that their condition was sexually-transmitted, to occur, at what stages, etc. This basic medical paramount. Maintaining immovable negative but only that they had “bad blood.” knowledge could end up serving the interests ethical norms against the abuse of research The study began at a time when no eff ective of thousands or millions of other individuals subjects is key, including norms like: “Do no treatments for syphilis existed, but as penicillin in the future, it was asserted, even as doctors harm,” “do not kill,” “always secure informed became the standard of care during the mid- overlooked the litany of suff erings and harms consent,” etc. 1940s, the infected men were not off ered the infl icted on an unfortunate few. The rights of patients to these protections new drug; in fact, it was withheld from them A utilitarian approach to justifying scientifi c should not be taken as values to be balanced during the next 25 years, to enable researchers research on humans usually implies that we against the goals of research. This risks to track the progression of their disease. need to “balance” the value of new scientifi c sweeping away the vital interests of human The outcry that followed the public discoveries against the dignity of human subjects in a tide of appeals to societal utility revelation of these unethical research methods, experimental subjects. In this view, the two or medical progress. The negative norm, which described in an investigative report in the represent “competing values,” and in a world requires that one should never harm, exploit or Washington Star, resulted in the study’s with no moral absolutes, some individuals may destroy human life in the pursuit of laudable fi nally being shut down. By then, there had emphasize one set of values, while others will research goals, can only be fulfi lled in one way: already been widespread devastation, with give more weight to another. Compromise can by refusing to violate the norm. 28 participants having died from syphilis, then open up a “middle” solution, allowing These kinds of negative norms serve 100 more having perished from related for some experimentation on humans to be the essential role of setting fi xed and clear complications, and the subjects’ having carried out for the good of research, even if it boundaries for ethically acceptable research, transmitted the disease to at least 40 spouses might at times be harmful, debilitating or lethal strict limits on the pursuit of even the most and 19 of their children. to its subjects. In any real-world setting, this worthwhile of scientifi c goals. This helps In May, 1997 President Clinton issued a means that those who are most vulnerable—the assure that humans, who are endowed with public apology to the victims and their families, poor, the weak, the disenfranchised and the an absolute value and a unique dignity in sick—become rife for exploitation whenever stating, “The United States government did themselves, are appropriately protected from particular research goals are declared worthy of something that was wrong—deeply, profoundly, any forms of utilitarian reckoning. pursuit. morally wrong.” Many afterward questioned g Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his doctorate how such ethically off ensive research could This utilitarian approach to “balancing in neuroscience from Yale and did post-doctoral work at have continued unabated for so many decades. values” provides a highly fl awed ethical Harvard. He is a priest of the diocese of Fall River, MA, and framework that has been used to justify other serves as the Director of Education at The National Catholic In the fi nal analysis, the Tuskegee syphilis immoral biomedical research projects like the Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. He also serves as a professor experiments relied upon a defective theory German medical experiments on prisoners of bioethics at the University of Mary in Bismarck. See www. of ethics, still popular today, known as ncbcenter.org during the Second World War, human “utilitarianism.” Utilitarianism seeks to embryonic stem cell research and other forms

If I do not believe in God, nor believe Holy Communion is God, nor in full communion with the Church He established, then I’m not ready to receive Holy Communion. Therefore, the fi rst group mentioned above cannot Questions receive Holy Communion. They either don’t believe in God, don’t believe Holy Communion is Who it is and/or don’t believe in the Church Jesus established. Of course, anyone can change their heart and believe in God I was afraid to ask and the Church. Once they have made this change, and it has been declared so in public, then they can approach Holy Communion. FR. JOSEPH EVINGER Now, let’s look at the second group. If a Catholic Christian has knowingly gone against God and his Church, it’s simple to understand that they are not in communion with God and His Church. Therefore, they cannot approach Holy Communion. For by approaching Holy Communion one is stating publicly that one is in communion with God and His Church. Why can’t some people receive Holy For example, a Catholic gets married in a Catholic Church, then gets Communion? divorced and then attempts another marriage at the courthouse. That Q: person’s public action of getting married at the courthouse or anywhere There are three groups of people who cannot approach Holy outside the Church tells the whole world that they do not want to listen to Communion. Non-Catholics and non-Orthodox are not able to Jesus’ words on marriage and divorce found in Matthew 19, Mark 10, and in approach Holy Communion. All those who have committed grave other places. That person cannot approach Holy Communion until he or she sin and are unrepentant cannot approach Holy Communion. And, stops living married life with the new person, or the fi rst marriage is found A: those who have not fasted from food and drink for at least one to have been invalid and their present union is validated in the Catholic hour cannot approach Holy Communion. Church. This may sound harsh to some ears but Jesus’ words on marriage Before we continue, there is one truth we must wholeheartedly believe: The and divorce cannot be any clearer. One has to obey Jesus or one can’t sacrament of Holy Communion is God. The reception of Holy Communion approach Holy Communion. This goes for all grave sin, public or private. We hinges on this great truth. must obey Jesus to have Holy Communion with Him. To approach the Most Blessed Sacrament, we must be ready for communion The third group of people who cannot approach Holy Communion are with God. God is always ready to receive us, but there are many human unable to do so because the Church wishes us to prepare our minds before beings who, whether purposefully or through no fault of their own, are approaching this Sacred and Holy Sacrament. Fasting from all food and not ready to receive God. God always takes us as we are and then slowly drink (medication and water not included) remind us that the food we’re and patiently transforms us into who He created us to be, namely saints in about to receive isn’t ordinary food. No, this is the God of the Universe. heaven. We often try to do the same with God. We want to take God as He No one without preparation walks half-heartedly into the ocean. No, one is and then turn Him into what we want Him to be. We want to manipulate prepares oneself, mentally and with any gear necessary to stay safe. God our Creator. Of course, God can change us into good, but we can’t make To approach God in Holy Communion my heart, soul, and mind must be God better than He already is. He is the good. If I don’t want to change my ready. And, my actions must be in accordance with God and His Church. If life to be in accordance with God’s will, I’m not ready for Holy Communion I’m not ready to be obedient to God and be in full communion with Him, with Him. then I’m not ready to approach Him in Holy Communion. This doesn’t mean When we were baptized, we, or our godparents, made a profession of faith. that I don’t love God. It just means that I don’t love God fully nor do I want We promised that we would give our hearts to God. Every Sunday since to follow His will completely. And, of course, God always loves us and tugs at then, we have done the same when we profess the Creed before God and our hearts every day. He wants us to receive Holy Communion even more so the whole Church. We say we believe in God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, than we do. But, He wants us to be in actual communion with Him. The great which means we say we give our hearts to God. We say we believe in “one, sacrament of confession gives us that grace of full communion with God holy, catholic and apostolic Church,” meaning we promise to obey all the and his Church. teachings which Jesus passed down to us through the Church. If our actions g say that we are giving our hearts to God and the Church, then we are ready Fr. Evinger is pastor of St. Joseph in Killdeer, St. Paul in Halliday and St. to receive Holy Communion. Joseph in Twin Buttes. If you have a question you were afraid to ask, now is the time to ask it! Simply email your question to [email protected] with the “Question Afraid to Ask” in the subject line. 16 | Dakota Catholic Action SEPTEMBER 2020

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