Inaugural Issue Winter 2013-2014

A publication of the Oblates of St. Joseph, Holy Spouses Province, United States of America

“Holy Spouses, pray for us sinners, our families and communities, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.” From the Provincial Superior

Dear Friends of the Oblates of St. Joseph, pand the Oblates of Joseph spirit to other states With great joy in my heart, I am honored to greet and to new people who hunger for the presence of you through this inaugural issue of our Custos Christ in their lives. Please keep this intention for an magazine, the new official publication of the reli- increase of vocations to our new Province in your gious congregation of the Oblates of , prayers. Holy Spouses Province (U.S.A.). We are coming up Our USA Province is appropriately dedicated to on the first year anniversary of our newly united and placed under the protection of the Holy Spouses, American province, created through the merger of Mary and Joseph. Often we become angry and the former Pennsyl- frustrated when “our plans” are turned upside down, vania and California but the Holy Spouses show us by their love of God provinces. Great prog- and their love for each other within the marriage ress has been achieved covenant how to be completely open to the Will of during the past year in God. Their deep faith and love will be exalted and working through the presented as a model for all married couples of today tedious details of all when we celebrate their special feast on January 23rd. that is involved with a Among the many joyous moments we shared in merger of any kind. Our 2013 as the USA Oblates of Saint Joseph, the most unification is not just significant was the official visit of our Superior Gen- Custos something juridical or eral, Very Rev. Michele Piscopo, O.S.J., from October A publication of the Oblates of St. Joseph, merely on paper, but the 11 to November 11. He brought into our hearts of Contents Holy Spouses Province, U.S.A. blending of hearts, dreams and goals to better serve each a spark of renewed enthusiasm so that we can From the Provincial Superior...... 1 the People of God in this land of ours. Much work better serve you by being more faithful and loving The Holy Spouses Rosary ...... 2 The title of our magazine ‘Custos’ is the Latin word for still needs to be done; but, we are confident that the servants of Christ as desired by our Holy Founder, St. Superior General Visits the U.S.A...... 5 ‘Guardian’ and refers to St. Joseph in his vocation as the Holy Spirit is guiding us through the process. We Joseph Marello. Kindly pray for us as we promise to The Gospel of Joy...... 8 guardian and protector of Jesus and Mary. are also blessed with the prayerful support of people do the same for you in appreciation for all the loving Homily of Pope Francis to Youth...... 10 like you, who form an integral part of our religious support you offer to us, spiritually and materially, as Find Your Mission...... 12 Executive Editor: Fr. Matthew Spencer, O.S.J. family. This new year of 2014 also marks the 85th an- we journey together towards the eternal Kingdom. “A blind date with Jesus”...... 13 email: [email protected] niversary of the presence and ministry of the Oblates May the joyful hope that rests in our hearts lead United by the Holy Spouses ...... 14 of Saint Joseph here in the United States. Our Oblate us throughout this new year of 2014 as we will expe- Pilgrimage to Pennsylvania...... 15 Distribution & Circulation: Susan Vega email: [email protected] brothers and priests from decades past have inspired rience God’s presence and blessings in the expected News and Events...... 16 us along the way and bring us to where we are today. and unexpected moments of our lives. Directory of Oblate Communities...... 19 Send correspondence and subscription inquiries to: Our gratitude to them is to be translated in carry- From the Editor’s Desk ...... 20 Custos, 544 West Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz, CA 95650 ing on faithfully and with renewed zeal the mission Yours in the Holy Spouses, of Jesus Christ in the places where we are currently email: [email protected] ministering on both the east and west coasts. If the We are dedicated to sharing the charism of phone: (831) 457-1868 • web: http://osjusa.org the Oblates of St. Joseph with you through Lord grants us the blessing of an abundance of holy Very Rev. Paul A. McDonnell, O.S.J. meditations on our Josephite-Marellian vocations, we may then have the possibility to ex- Provincial Superior, Holy Spouses Province spirituality, sound theological reflections, and news and events from our Congregation. Front Cover: Stained glass window from St. Joseph Church, Omaha, NE. Above: The Oblates of St. Joseph of the Holy Spouses Province (U.S.A.). Custos • Winter 2013-2014 1 Growing in love of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

Understanding the Holy Spouses Prayer The Holy Spouses Prayer is founded on scripture, tradition, and the magisterium of the Church. But since it might not be immediately evident why The Holy Spouses Rosary that is the case, we break down for you here the theological underpinnings of the prayer and why it serves as such a beautiful vehicle for reflection. This devotion for married couples, single individuals, widows, widowers, and Phrase Explanation and Meaning consecrated men and women around the world could have a profound impact Mary, full of grace, The salutation used by the angel Gabriel on your own spiritual life as well as on our society and culture. and Joseph, Son of David, The salutation used by the angel that appeared to Joseph honor to you Mother of God, The ancient title the Church gives to Mary For centuries the Church has out the history of the rosary as a prayed on the same beads and in a and to you Guardian of the Redeemer. The title given by the modern Church to Joseph been invoking the assistance of devotional prayer. With the attacks nearly identical manner as the tra- our Blessed Mother through the on marriage, family and life, it is ditional rosary, with two primary Eternal praise to the child, All of our praise goes to Son of God recitation of the holy rosary. It is a not surprising that the rosary can distinctions: 1) in the place of the with whom you formed a family, Jesus. Jesus is at the heart of the prayer as he is at the heart of the Holy Family prayer which has transformed lives, help us to combat such evils in our Hail Mary, the Holy Spouses Prayer led to miraculous intercession, own times. is used during the recitation of Holy Spouses, pray for us sinners, We invoke the intercession of Mary and Joseph as Spouses and helped billions of Catholics The Holy Spouses Rosary is just each decade, and 2) ten scriptural our families and communities, Mary and Joseph are also important intercessors for those around us to know and love Mary better. For such a tool. Mary and Joseph, the mysteries which span the Incarna- many people, the rosary leads them individuals that lived their marital tion and Hidden Life of Jesus are now and at the hour of our death. Amen. As in the Hail Mary, we plead for their assistance for our whole life to their most intimate reflections vocation perfectly according to used for reflection and meditation. on the life of Jesus and Mary. God’s will, can help us respond to But the rosary is also an or- the needs of our troubled times Why the Holy Spouses Rosary? ganic prayer. It has been adapted by leading us closer to the child In the nineteenth century, The Mysteries of the Incarnation and Hidden Life through the centuries in order to they raised, Jesus our Lord. Here Pope Leo XIII asked the faithful help the faithful enter more deeply we would like to share with you to invoke the assistance of Joseph 1. The Betrothal (Mt 1:18a, Lk 1:26-27, 2:4-5a). Before the Incarna- 6. The Circumcision and Naming of Jesus (Lk 2:21). The covenant into the mysteries of Christ’s saving this beautiful devotion so that you at every recitation of their rosary. tion the immaculate virgin and the just man are wedded to each of Abraham and the law are brought to fulfillment and the Holy work. The most dramatic recent too might profit from the assis- John Paul II reiterated this request other in true married love. Spouses give him the name they received from the angel, Jesus. example of this is probably Blessed tance of Mary, the Mother of God, in his own apostolic exhorta- 2. The Annunciation to Mary (Lk 1:28-38). God chooses the virgin 7. The Presentation of Jesus (Lk 2:22-35). As the Holy Spouses re- John Paul II’s proposal of the and Joseph, the Guardian of the tion, Redemptoris Custos. While a Mary, betrothed to Joseph of the house of David, for the miracle of joice at Simeon’s prophecy of light for the nations and they grieve at Luminous Mysteries, but Redeemer. special relationship with Mary is his coming in human flesh. the thought of the sword of rejection. such adaptations have foundational for Catholics, we are 3. The Annunciation to Joseph (Mt 1:18b-23). God’s design is for 8. The Flight to and Return from Egypt (Mt 2:13-15). Returning occurred through- What is the Holy Spouses Rosary? also experiencing a new apprecia- Mary’s husband, the just man of the house of David, to continue with from Egypt, the Son of God establishes the New Covenant, leading When some hear of the Holy tion for entering into the myster- their plans to form a home together. us from the slavery of sin into the new promised land, his kingdom. Spouses Rosary, they presume that ies of Christ through the person 4. Joseph Takes Mary his Wife into his Home (Mt 1:24-25). The Son 9. The Finding of Jesus in the Temple (Lk 2:41-50). When Jesus it must be dramatically different of St. Joseph. By including Joseph of God depends upon a chosen human father, committed in a virginal stays behind in the temple, his parents, Joseph and Mary, are con- from the officially approved devo- in our recitation of the rosary, we marriage, to provide a loving, caring, and wholesome home for him. fronted with the mystery of Jesus’ reference to his “Father’s house.” tion known as the Marian Rosary. are not only heeding the advice of 5. The Birth of Jesus (Lk 2:6-16). The Son of God is born in the poverty 10. The Hidden Life at Nazareth (Lk 2:51-52; 3:23). For thirty years, In fact, the Holy Spouses Rosary is the Church—we are discovering of a stable in the town of David, received by the love of the humble Jesus lives obediently to his parents in an ordinary, hidden life of a simple adaptation of the Marian that St. Joseph can help us to know Holy Spouses, and adored by poor shepherds. prayer, family, and work, before beginning his public ministry, call- Rosary that does not seek to re- Jesus and our Blessed Mother that ing us to also find holiness in the ordinary. place it but to complement it. It is much more. →

2 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 3 By reflecting on the lives of be found on page 3. Not surpri- rosary and to meditate on the life Mary and Joseph through the ingly, many of these are the same of Jesus through the eyes of the two lens of their vocation to marriage, as the Joyful Mysteries, since the people closest to him. Superior General Visits the U.S.A. we also gain a new appreciation Joyful Mysteries also encompass As you are no doubt aware, by Very Rev. Michele Piscopo, O.S.J. for how they can be models for the events around the incarnation, the Province of the Oblates of St. us. Married couples can learn to birth, and childhood of Jesus. Joseph in the United States has appreciate and imitate their total With all of the above in mind, if been placed under the protection self-giving and sacrificial service you know how to pray the Mar- and patronage of the Holy Spouses, From October 11 to November 11, 2013, Fr. Michele Piscopo, O.S.J., Superior to one another. Single people can ian Rosary, you can easily pray the Mary and Joseph. This fact places General of the Oblates of St. Joseph conducted his canonical visit to all the grasp better the commitment to Holy Spouses Rosary: we begin this devotion in a special place in communities of the Holy Spouses Province. What follows are some of his ob- virginity and celibacy for the sake with the introductory prayers of our lives. We want to share this de- of the Kingdom that both Mary the Sign of the Cross, the Apostles’ votion with you so that you might servations on the Oblates’ work in the United States. and Joseph embraced. Consecrated Creed, one Our Father and three grow in your love and appreciation men and women see in Mary’ and Hail Mary’s, and the Glory Be. of the vocation of Mary and Joseph From October 11 to November 11, 2013, I carried I had the pleasure of meeting with the O.S.J. la- Joseph’s total commitment to one Then select five of the mysteries and their unique relationship to out, along with my General Councilor, Fr. Brian Craw- ity both in Pennsylvania and in California. I noted another and to Jesus an example above to meditate on (a simple way Jesus. May the Holy Spouses lead ford, the Canonical Visit to the new “Holy Spouses Prov- with pleasure their sense of belonging to the Fam- of their own total consecration to to do this is to choose mysteries you to greater trust and confidence ince” in the United States of America. I would like to ily of Marello and the love and respect which they Christ. In short, the Holy Spouses 1-5 or 6-10). As you recite each de- in Jesus! share with all of you some of the aspects of this Province have for our confreres who seek to pass on to them are patrons for Christians in all cade using the Holy Spouses Prayer, so that we might feel ever more united as a Family. our Josephite-Marellian Spirituality and Charism. walks of life, because they lived out meditate on the mystery of each In the Province much importance is given to The formation conferences which we had with them so well their own vocation. decade, reflecting on how the Holy Youth Ministry, the apostolic charism of the Con- were much appreciated and received with great Spouses are calling you to grow in gregation. We met with the parish youth groups: it openness. As a sign of solidarity with the social Praying the Holy Spouses Rosary love and service of Jesus. is always a pleasure to works of the Congregation, At the heart of the Holy Spouses enter into the “world” Let us ask for the help of our they offered generous dona- Rosary is the Holy Spouses Prayer, A prayer for you! of youth and to listen tions for our missionary patterned after the form of the Hail The Holy Spouses Rosary is to their struggles and Founder St. Joseph Marello so projects. Mary: not meant to replace the Marian hopes for a better future. that the ministry of our American The Holy Spouses Mary, full of grace, and Joseph, Rosary. God knows how important I presented to them the Province for many years Son of David, honor to you Mother the Marian Rosary has been for youthful enthusiasm confreres will help in the human, has emphasized the forma- of God, and to you Guardian of the so many people through the ages, of St. Marello, which tion of some Laity who are Redeemer. Eternal praise to the child, and this must certainly continue was then carried out spiritual and social growth of the committed with great love with whom you formed a family, in your own devotion life. But always and everywhere people entrusted to them. to live with greater inten- Jesus. Holy Spouses, pray for us sin- since the Holy Spouses Rosary is a in seeking “the interests sity the Josephite-Marellian ners, our families and communities, tool that you can also use in your of Jesus.” Our confreres work with both English and spirit according to the indications found in our now and at the hour of our death. prayers to Mary, we recommend Spanish speaking groups and facilitate the integra- Constitutions. Presently there are five officially Amen. you consider praying it in place of tion of the different cultures and sensibilities. The recognized Lay Associate Members, and others are For more history, reflections, and medita- Along with this special prayer your daily rosary occasionally. It Province has a modern and large Marello Youth in formation in order to be admitted. In the special tions on the Holy Spouses Rosary, we invite are ten mysteries of the Incarnation will help you incorporate St. Joseph Retreat Center in Loomis, CA, which is also avail- meeting I had with them, I noted the serious nature you to check out our book with the same and Hidden Life of Jesus which can more into your recitation of the title. Go to osjusa.org/rosary to get it. able for use by the local dioceses. of their conviction to be a part of the Oblates in

4 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 5 order to live their lay vocation in the spirit of our Santa Cruz, CA. In the gardens surrounding the Shrine Founder. is found the life-sized statue of St. Joseph, seated on a For many years one of the important characteristics bench with a human fetus held in his fatherly hands. of our parishes, both in Pennsylvania and in Califor- The affectionate and tender gesture of St. Joseph makes nia, is the religious and social ministry among Spanish one think of the sacredness of life and of children as speaking immigrants. Already all of the confreres must God’s gift to humanity. be bilingual, as also the liturgical celebrations, cateche- The confreres are also committed to spreading de- sis, parish groups and assistance in the parish office. votion to the Holy Spouses, Joseph and Mary, made up Many of these immigrants are undocumented and of prayers and meditations on Christian family values. have no fixed home and work. Our confreres, with the In this way, they witness to the Church being close to assistance of the laity, do all that they can to help these troubled families. brothers and sisters who have left their home coun- Let us invoke upon our “new” Province in the tries and culture in search of a better future, hoping to United States of America the protection of Our Lady of become a part of the society in the United States. This Sorrows, Mother of our Congregation and of our voca- is a ministry which is not only social, but also religious, tion, so that she might intercede to the Lord for our so as to maintain the Catholic faith and help them to confreres and for good and holy vocations to the Reli- reject the pressure coming from numerous other reli- gious Life and the Priesthood. Let us ask our Protector gious denominations. I visited the soup kitchen for the St. Joseph, master of the spiritual life and the apostolic poor in our parish in Madera: it is impressive to see the life, to cover with his fatherly mantle our confreres number of people who are served (at times up to 500 a who call upon him, along with the Christian faithful, day) and the love with which the assistance is offered. as Protector of life and of unborn children. Let us ask Another important initiative of the parish in for the help of our Founder, St. Joseph Marello, so that Madera (population of almost 70,000) is the St. Marello the ministry of our American confreres will help in Bookstore. In a very spacious setting they sell books, the human, spiritual and social growth of the people religious articles, CD and all things useful for Catholic entrusted to them. May the Servant of God, Fr. Joseph devotion. This is also a wonderful ministry which our Calvi, by his holy life and example, inspire the Oblates confreres offer following the example and in the spirit of St. Joseph living and working in the U.S.A. May of the Founder. they persevere on their journey of faithfulness to their Some of the socio-religious issues which the vocation so that they might truly become confreres are facing in their ministry include abortion, indoors and Apostles outdoors. contraception, the culture of death, and families in As always, and truly, I say to myself: how can I not crisis. In defense of Christian values they present the be proud to be an Oblate of St. Joseph, witnessing the figure of St. Joseph, “Protector of Life,” and in a special life and ministry of our confreres in the Holy Spouses way, “Protector of the Unborn.” They have nurtured Province? for years now this popular devotion, followed by many, some to spread the devotion and others who, conscious Fr. Michele Piscopo, O.S.J., serves as the Superior of the grave sin being committed, join together for General based in , at the Generalate of the the defense of life. The center for this devotion is the Oblates of St. Joseph. Shrine of “St. Joseph, Guardian of the Redeemer, ” in

Facing page: The Holy Father, Pope Francis, greets Fr. Piscopo at 6 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 the Synod Hall in the Vatican on November 27, 2013. Custos • Winter 2013-2014 7 Reflections on the Magisterium

the reasons worldly people see us as a source of joy for us—that God Many fall prey to it, and end up so unhappy is because that is what wants His children to be happy. resentful, angry and listless. That “The Gospel of Joy” we project. If that’s so—and our However, that is the truth! The is no way to live a dignified and by Rev. Gregory Finn, O.S.J. Holy Father is bold in suggesting delight of God is to give life to His fulfilled life; it is not God’s will for that maybe it is—then something children, and to restore it if it is lost, us, nor is it the life in the Spirit has to be done about it. to save them, to redeem them to which has its source in the heart of St. Joseph Marello was a master cat- carry us back to the heart of the frustrated, dour and sad. We have Pope Francis begins his Exhor- walk with them, to lift them on high. the risen Christ.” echist and faithful interpreter of the message of Christ our Savior and all met such people, even in church, tation: “The joy of the gospel fills This delight should reverberate in us Where do we go to find joy if not magisterium of the Church. In that the effect it is supposed to have and the media has practically the hearts and lives of all who and lead to joy—God intends it. in God? We become selfish and self- spirit, Fr. Gregory Finn shares with upon our lives. It would appear that made a universal stereotype of the encounter Jesus. Those who accept Yet there are so many Christians centered. We look for joy in passing us in this and upcoming installments our Holy Father is well aware, as mean grumpy Christian—some- his offer of salvation are set free who apparently don’t experience things and in places where it doesn’t his reflections on magisterial teach- our we, that all too often those who thing that would be hard to get away from sin, sorrow, inner emptiness joy, and certainly don’t seem to really last or even isn’t really there. ings and on catechetics. claim to be Christians, followers of with if there were not some basis for and loneliness. With Christ joy is show it or live it. Why? Well, in That can only lead to unhappiness the Lord Jesus Christ, don’t seem to it. Maybe we cringe whenever we constantly born anew. In this Ex- part it seems almost too good to be and frustration. Here perhaps we Last November our Holy Father be people just overflowing with a see Christians portrayed in such an hortation I wish to encourage the true. Maybe also because we were begin to understand the grumpy Pope Francis, published his first spirit of joy and happiness for hav- unfriendly way, and thus made fun Christian faithful to embark upon never taught to look for it, and thus Christian—a person who believes in Apostolic Exhortation Evangelii ing been touched by His grace. Just of or dismissed as crackpots or mal- a new chapter of evangelization make little of it, overlook it, distrust Jesus, but doesn’t know well His joy, Gaudium, meaning “The Gospel the opposite! At times Christians contents. However, we also need to marked by this joy, while point- it if we seem to experience it, and but does seem to seek it elsewhere. of Joy.” His intention is clearly to appear angry, disgruntled, negative, examine ourselves and see whether ing out new paths for the Church’s instead seek elsewhere for it. This For that person our Faith becomes journey in years to come.” could get us into trouble. For if we more a question of doctrines and The Pope reminds us that Jesus start to seek elsewhere for joy, it rules, but what gives quality and and all He did and taught are usually means someplace other meaning and joy to life, comes to have the effect of creating joy. than in God or in what He provides. from other things that often disap- Where Jesus genuinely enters a life, Pope Francis goes on: point—thus that person lives a sour the joy of God enters with Him. “The great danger in today’s life as a follower of God. Our Holy Where His truth is understood, joy world, pervaded as it is by con- Father wants to get us back on track is embraced. Where His paths of sumerism, is the desolation and and deep into the real heart of Jesus’ goodness and love are practiced, joy anguish born of a complacent yet salvation and truth and to experi- is the fruit. Where even His cross covetous heart, the feverish pur- ence His joy. The rest of the Pope’s and sacrifice touch our lives with suit of frivolous pleasures, and a exhortation will warn us of dangers, struggle and pain, joy still seeps blunted conscience. Whenever our but also encourage us in the midst through. In essence, to know God interior life becomes caught up of a difficult time in the world. We and genuinely know His grace can- in its own interests and concerns, will, in future articles, look more not but be the cause of joy, for it is there is no longer room for others, closely at what he says. the very nature of God and His es- no place for the poor. God’s voice sential purpose in all of this to do so. is no longer heard, the quiet joy of Fr. Gregory Finn, O.S.J., is the Strangely there are Christians his love is no longer felt, and the pastor of Holy Annunciation parish who have never been taught that desire to do good fades. This is a in Hazleton, PA. the love of God is supposed to be very real danger for believers too.

8 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 9 Youth & Young Adults

youth”. God says the same thing to Lord a new song” (Psalm95:1). Reading, when God sends the you as he said to Jeremiah: “Be not What is this new song? It does not prophet Jeremiah, he gives him the Homily of Pope Francis to Youth afraid … for I am with you to de- consist of words, it is not a melody, power to “pluck up and to break These are the inspiring words of Pope Francis to youth in the final Mass of liver you” (Jer 1:7,8). He is with us! it is the song of your life, it is allow- down, to destroy and to overthrow, World Youth Day at Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana beach, July 28, 2013. “Do not be afraid!” When we go to ing our life to be identified with to build and to plant” (1:10). It is proclaim Christ, it is he himself that of Jesus, it is sharing his senti- the same for you. Bringing the who goes before us and guides us. ments, his thoughts, his actions. Gospel is bringing God’s power to Dear Young Friends, the Lord of life and history (cf. and to show us the love and mercy When he sent his disciples on mis- And the life of Jesus is a life for pluck up and break down evil and “Go and make disciples of all Rom10:9). of God. Jesus does not treat us as sion, he promised: “I am with you others. It is a life of service. In our violence, to destroy and overthrow nations.” With these words, Jesus is Careful, though! Jesus did not slaves, but as free men, as friends, always” (Mt28:20). And this is also Second Reading today, Saint Paul the barriers of selfishness, intoler- speaking to each one of us, saying: say: “if you would like to, if you as brothers and sisters; and he not true for us! Jesus does not leave us says: “I have made myself a slave to ance and hatred, so as to build a “It was wonderful to take part in have the time”, but: “Go and make only sends us, he accompanies us, alone, he never leaves you alone! all, that I might World Youth Day, to live the faith disciples of all nations.” Sharing the he is always beside us in our mis- He always accompanies you. win the more” together with young people from experience of faith, bearing wit- sion of love. And then, Jesus did not say: (1 Cor9:19). In the four corners of the earth, but ness to the faith, proclaiming the Where does Jesus send us? “One of you go,” but “All of you go”: order to proclaim now you must go, now you must Gospel: this is a command that the There are no borders, no limits: he we are sent together. Dear young Jesus, Paul made pass on this experience to others.” Lord entrusts to the whole Church, sends us to everyone. The Gospel is friends, be aware of the compan- himself “a slave Jesus is calling you to be a disciple for everyone, not just for some. It is ionship of the whole Church and to all”. Evange- with a mission! Today, in the light Do not be afraid to go not only for those who seem closer also the communion of the lizing means of the word of God that we have to us, more receptive, more wel- on this mission. When we face bearing personal heard, what is the Lord saying to and to bring Christ into coming. It is for everyone. Do not challenges together, then we are witness to the us? Three simple ideas: Go, do not every area of life, to the be afraid to go and to bring Christ strong, we discover resources we love of God, it is be afraid, and serve. into every area of life, to the fringes did not know we had. Jesus did not overcoming our 1. Go. During these days here fringes of society, even of society, even to those who seem call the Apostles to live in isolation, selfishness, it is in Rio, you have been able to enjoy farthest away, most indifferent. The he called them to form a group, a serving by bend- the wonderful experience of meet- to those who seem Lord seeks all, he wants everyone community. I would like to address ing down to wash ing Jesus, meeting him together farthest away, most to feel the warmth of his mercy you, dear priests concelebrating the feet of our with others, and you have sensed and his love… with me at this Eucharist: you have brethren, as Jesus Pope Francis embraces a young boy from the crowd while in Rio de the joy of faith. But the experience indifferent. 2. Do not be afraid. Some come to accompany your young did. Janeiro, Brazil during World Youth Day celebrations. of this encounter must not remain people might think: “I have no people, and this is wonderful, to Go, do not locked up in your life or in the particular preparation, how can I share this experience of faith with be afraid, and serve. If you follow new world. small group of your parish, your and that includes you; but it is a go and proclaim the Gospel?” My them! But it is a stage on the jour- these three ideas, you will experi- Jesus Christ is counting on movement, or your community. command that is born not from dear friend, your fear is not so very ney. Continue to accompany them ence that the one who evangelizes you! The Church is counting on That would be like withholding ox- a desire for domination or power different from that of Jeremiah, a with generosity and joy, help them is evangelized, the one who trans- you! The Pope is counting on you! ygen from a flame that was burning but from the force of love, from young man like you, when he was to become actively engaged in the mits the joy of faith receives joy. May Mary, Mother of Jesus and strongly. Faith is a flame that grows the fact that Jesus first came into called by God to be a prophet. We Church; never let them feel alone! Dear young friends, as you return our Mother, always accompany you stronger the more it is shared and our midst and gave us, not a part of have just heard his words: “Ah, 3. The final word: serve. The to your homes, do not be afraid to with her tenderness: “Go and make passed on, so that everyone may himself, but the whole of himself, Lord God! Behold, I do not know opening words of the psalm that be generous with Christ, to bear disciples of all nations.” Amen. know, love and confess Jesus Christ, he gave his life in order to save us how to speak, for I am only a we proclaimed are: “Sing to the witness to his Gospel. In the first

10 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 11 Vocations Fr. John Shearer, O.S.J. Director of Vocations (East Coast) email: [email protected] phone: (570) 654-6902 “A blind date Fr. Sergio Perez, O.S.J. Director of Vocations (West Coast) Find Your Mission email: [email protected] by Rev. John Shearer, O.S.J. phone: (916) 652-6336 with Jesus…” by René Vargas

This past summer, many Oblates and the youth we serve were blessed with the opportunity to attend In November 2013, the Oblates of St. Joseph held their seminary. The entire day I was able to reflect on the life World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro with Pope Francis. “With new beginnings comes first vocation retreat as a new Province at Mount St. of a seminarian and if this was the right vocation for It was such an uplifting experience to be there worship- great enthusiasm!” Joseph in Loomis, CA. One of the retreatants from that me. I have never felt so much joy in my life. ing the Lord with so many young people from around weekend reflects here on his experience. There was a specific time in this retreat when I the world. While we were there, our Holy Father asked God: “Where do you want me to serve you? commented on the gift of our particular vocation. He good and holy choices regarding our path in life, it is Before the retreat last November, I was very What do you want me do with my life?” After hav- said, “God calls you to make definitive choices, and he worth the effort. nervous but at the same time I was very happy because ing a moment of silence with Jesus and meditating on has a plan for each of you: to discover that plan and to As vocation directors, Fr. Sergio and I are here I was going to spend an entire weekend with Jesus. I what He wants from me, I started walking around the respond to your vocation is to move toward personal to help young people find their special mission. We prepared myself by wearing my best spiritual outfit seminary grounds. I found a tree and decided to spend fulfillment. God especially pray that (being in God’s grace) and taking my heart, mind, and the rest of my meditation time under that tree. When calls each of us the Lord will send soul as the “present” that I was going to offer to Jesus. I got to the tree I noticed that there was a cross on the to be holy, to live many young men to When I was on my way to Mount St. Joseph Seminary I ground. As I paused before this cross, it was at that his life, but he has our religious com- felt like I was waiting on a bench for Jesus to come and time that I knew for sure that God wants me to dedi- a particular path munity so that they I was there thinking of all the beautiful things that He cate my life to serve him as a priest. When I got up and for each one of can experience the had prepared for me. started walking back to the meet the other retreatants, us.” Finding our joy of living a life of When we finally arrived at the seminary, I was able it was then that I realized that the cross was actually personal vocation holiness and service to experience a peaceful and warm welcome from the the start of a Rosary path laid out on the ground. Not is our key to being in our Oblate family. Oblate priests, from Brother Mat, and from the other only was God with me, but also the Virgin Mary, Our happy in this life This is a time of new retreatants. When I finally entered the presence of our Lady of Guadalupe! I felt overcome with joy and the and the next. The beginnings in our Lord during Benediction I knew that my blind date knowledge of what God wanted me to do with my life. Lord has given Church and prov- with Jesus had started. In the first night I experienced With the grace of God, I know that one day I will be each of us special ince, and with new a similar calling as Samuel (1 Samuel 3:2-11). After a seminarian and will be able to have a deeper relation- gifts and talents beginnings comes spending a few minutes in prayer I was finally able to ship with God. At this moment of my life I am open to that are to be used great enthusiasm! If go to sleep and end my first blind date with Jesus. In any plans that God has for me. I will continue praying for the building up you sense the Lord the second day which was a day full of emotions, I for my vocation, for the vocations of my brothers that Fr. John Shearer, O.S.J. and Fr. Sergio Perez, O.S.J. (vocation directors of the Holy Spous- of the Kingdom of es Province of the Oblates of St. Joseph) with participants of a recent vocation retreat. calling you to serve experienced happiness, peace, love, compassion and attended the retreat, and for priests around the world God. Him in imitation of friendship. I never thought that the priests would be so so that they may continue projecting the love of Christ As Oblates of St. Joseph, we strive to help the people St. Joseph, we invite you to contact us and see if the much fun and project so much brotherhood between our Savior and especially for the Oblates of St. Joseph. we serve to discover and live out their particular voca- Lord has chosen you. them and also towards us. In this second day I was able tions. It can be difficult to hear the Lord calling with to work with the priests: not just physically but also Please pray for René and for all those men contem- all of the distractions in our world today, but since our Fr. John Shearer, O.S.J. and Fr. Sergio Perez, O.S.J. spiritually. These were the moments that got me think- plating a vocation to the Oblates of St. Joseph. With our happiness and fulfillment are dependent on us making serve as vocation directors of the Holy Spouses Province. ing about the possibility of saying yes to entering the assistance, may they follow God’s plan for them!

12 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 13 Josephite-Marellian Lay Association

United by the Holy Spouses Pilgrimage to Pennsylvania by Elaine Fisher Karen Chappelear

For eight days (September 15th to 22nd), friends of the Many changes and new beginnings took place this year for the Oblates of Saint Oblates of St. Joseph from Granite Bay, Madera, Bakersfield Joseph California and Pennsylvania Provinces…including among the laity! and Sacramento, CA, travelled as pilgrims to the East Coast. We shared our Catholic faith, prayer and the Eucharist as lay members of the Holy Spouses Province (U.S.A.). This unique We are now the Holy Spouses travel experience to Pennsylvania combined prayer, educational Province U.S.A. The Josephite- opportunities, and social interaction. We took an historical Marellian Laity Association, better look at the Oblates of St. Joseph and their arrival to America in known as “SLJM”, has been working 1929. After listening to a presentation from Fr. Paul McDon- together since the beginning of this nell on the 84 year presence of the Oblates of St. Joseph in year getting acquainted to create Pennsylvania, we toured the building and properties currently unity and spirituality among all laity and formerly administered by the Oblates of St. Joseph. We members. prayed at the graves of deceased Oblate priests and brothers at In our journey of faith, we have St. Rocco’s cemetery. We also had an opportunity to experience been asked by our Superior General, the history of coal mining as was lived in the early twentieth Fr. Michele Piscopo, O.S.J. to not century with visits to Eckley Miners Village and a trip down only assist our local neighbors and into the Lakawanna Coal Mine. communities; but to go the extra We left Pennsylvania for a day to visit New York City, mile in the “Year of Faith” and help include a picture and a few words 2013, allowing the possibility for including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the 9/11 Memorial, and the support the building of a school about each. They were to be distrib- our friends in California to bet- annual San Gennaro festival in “Little Italy,” which gave us in Nigeria. As our first combined uted to all SLJM members. ter understand the presence of the insight into the city’s history and heritage. Other places visited project as a united Province, we As a sign of our unity in both Oblates of St. Joseph in Pennsyl- included Amish country in Lancaster, PA. Before returning to raised $5,500 which was presented the East and the West, it has been vania. It proved to be a wonderful the West Coast, our final stop on the tour was Philadelphia, to the Superior General on October decided to begin each meeting with experience for all. Plans are now un- the “City of Brotherly Love.” This last visit served as a perfect 26th at the annual O.S.J. Laity gath- a decade of the Holy Spouses Ro- derway in organizing a similar trip conclusion to a pilgrimage that demonstrated the bond of the ering in Santa Cruz, CA. sary. Despite the great geographical for our East Coast friends to visit larger family of brothers and sisters affiliated with the Oblates What better way to maintain our distance between us we remain very California in the near future! of St. Joseph. spiritual connection as one Oblate close in heart and prayer. Blessings to everyone as we family in the U.S.A. than to pray for In our efforts to establish remain united by the Holy Spouses. Karen Chappelear is a member of the O.S.J. Laity of the each other. SLJM created prayer greater unity among us as laity of Loomis / Granite Bay chapter, who assisted in coordinating the cards of all of the Oblates and SLJM the Oblate family, a pilgrimage Elaine Fisher serves as president California pilgrimage to Pennsylvania. officers in our Province. The cards was organized in mid-September of the O.S.J. Laity in Pennsylvania.

Top: The pilgrims from California gather for a group photo at St. Joseph Marello Parish in Pittston, PA. Right: An image of San Gennaro from the 14 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 festival in New York, NY. ■■ For the first time ever, a nine-day spiritual adults to travel to San Francisco for the annual preparation from January 14–22 is planned Walk for Life. The event will be preceded by a News & Events for the Feast of the Holy Spouses (Jan. 23) at rally at St. Joachim Church for youth to stand Santa Cruz, CA the Mass was Very Rev. Michele Piscopo, OSJ, the daily morning Masses. Meditations will be up and express their support for unborn chil- ■■ In August and November, friends of our Superior General of the Oblates of St. Joseph. offered on each of the mysteries of the Holy dren, mothers, and fathers affected by abortion. Shrine community offered fond farewells to Inspirational talks were presented afterwards Spouses Rosary as outlined in the recently OSJ confreres who faithfully served in Santa to the over 100 participants by the Superior published book by Father Larry Toschi, O.S.J. ■■ Fr. John Warburton and Fr. Shaji Athipozhi Cruz and the surrounding area: Fr. John General and Fr. Brian Crawford, general coun- ask your prayers for their mothers (Patricia Warburton, former CA provincial superior cilor of the Oblate Congregation. and Philomena) who are both undergoing seri- & shrine rector, currently assigned to St. Pittston, PA ous health issues. Joachim’s Parish, Madera, as pastor & rector of ■■ The conclusion of the “Year of Faith” was ■■ The Oblates of St. Joseph Seminary in the religious community; Fr. James Catalano, celebrated on the Solemnity of Christ the King Pittston, PA was the setting for the Josephite- ■■ The monthly gathering for men who are administrator of St. Vincent De Paul Parish, (Nov. 24) with Mass and afternoon exposition Marellian Laity annual fall formation confer- discerning their vocation continues to be held Davenport, and associate shrine director, now of the Most Blessed Sacrament. The day ended ence on Sunday, November 17th. Fr. Gregory on the last Friday of every month at the rec- assigned as parochial vicar at St. Joachim’s Par- with the communal praying of vespers and T. Finn, O.S.J., pastor of the Oblate parish tory. Men interested in the religious life and ish, Madera.; Bro. David Pohorsky, sacristan Benediction. of Holy Annunciation in Hazelton led the the priesthood are invitied to attend. Please and maintenance super- conference. Father Finn fittingly spoke about contact the parish office for more information. visor, recently assigned ■■ Appreciation was expressed to all the Holy Spouses, which set the tone for the to serve at Mount St. Shrine volunteers for their time and season of Advent. Joseph, Loomis. dedication with an enjoyable Christ- Hazleton, PA mas dinner party on Sunday, Dec. ■■ Last year Holy Annunciation parish spon- ■■ Warm welcomes were 15th, at a restaurant located on the sored a Walk for Faith as a public mnifestation extended over the sum- Santa Cruz pier. of their Catholic identity during the Year of mer and fall months to Faith. Parishioners and members of all parish the Oblates of St. Joseph ■■ Christmas Day welcomed vari- groups walked through the streets of Hazle- newly assigned to the ous visitors from near and far to the ton singing and praying, pausing at various Shrine and religious Shrine’s 11:00am Mass celebrating the locations for public reflections and dramatic community: Fr. Paul Birth of Christ. Following the solemn presentations of the faith. The Walk was led by McDonnell, provincial celebration, Christmas greetings Fr. Gregory Finn and Fr. Victor León, together superior & shrine direc- were exchanged between old and new with the parish , Wilson Velez. tor; Fr. Jackson Pinhero, friends alike. administrator of St. Vin- ■■ Members of the SLJM group from Penn- cent De Paul Parish, Davenport, and associate ■■ Monthly Vocation Holy Hour begins on sylvania held their annual Christmas Party on Loomis, CA shrine director; Bro. Marcello DiNardo, who, January 2nd and will continue at the Shrine December 13, 2013 at Grico’s Restaurant in Ex- ■■ After many years of dedicated service in after serving 10 years at our General Head- every first Thursday of each month from 7:00 eter. The spirt of unity, giving and friendship the community of Loomis, Bro. Mathew quarters in Rome, Italy, has returned to Santa to 8:00pm. The Holy Hour includes exposition was shared by all who attended. The group Chipp will be transferred to work at St. Jo- Cruz to assist with daily duties of the religious of the Blessed Sacrament, praying of the rosary presented Rev. Raymond C. Tabon, O.S.J., a seph Marello House of Studies in Oxnard, CA. community. with vocation-theme meditations, Scriptural check to help his family who were affected by The Oblates in Loomis along with the all of reading and reflection, general intercessions the devastating Typhoon in the Philippines. our friends will greatly miss his presence in ■■ Members of the Josephite-Marellian Lay and Benediction. Friends of the Shrine and the Loomis; they are grateful to God for the lasting Society (SLJM) of California, formerly known surrounding communities are invited to this impact he has had on all in Loomis and wish as the “Family of St. Joseph”, were hosted on monthly holy hour to pray for an increase of Madera, CA him well in his new assignment in Oxnard. Saturday, October 26th, for their annual day of vocations to the priesthood and religious life, ■■ On January 25, 2014, St. Joachim Church prayer and recollection. Principal celebrant for especially to our Oblate USA province. will be sponsoring seven buses of youth and

16 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 17 We are proud to announce the launch of our Santa Cruz, CA Pittston, PA Provincial House St. Joseph Marello Parish new Province website, which can be found at Guardian of the Reedemer Shrine Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church 544 West Cliff Drive 237 William Street http://osjusa.org. Our new site was rebuilt from Santa Cruz, CA 95060-6147 Pittston, PA 18640 phone: (831) 457-1868 phone: (570) 654-6902 the ground up to bring you even better content fax: (831) 457-1317 fax: (570) 655-5448 web: http://osjusa.org web: http://www.olmtcarmel.com/ on all media platforms, including your mobile email: [email protected] ӹӹFr. Paul McDonnell, O.S.J. (Rector) and tablet devices. Log on now! ӹӹFr. Jackson Pinheiro, O.S.J. ӹӹFr. Carlos Esquivel, O.S.J. (Pastor) ӹӹFr. Aldo Grasso, O.S.J. ӹӹFr. John Shearer, O.S.J. ӹӹBro. Marcello DiNardo, O.S.J. Bakersfield, CA up to the anniversary itself. We will certainly Oblates of St. Joseph Seminary ■■ On December 12, 2013, have more information about the anniversary Madera, CA 1880 Highway 315 Our Lady of Guadalupe celebrations as they approach. Pittston, PA 18640 St. Joachim Church phone: (570) 654-7542 Church dedicated their 401 West 5th Street fax: (570) 654-8621 new grotto in honor of Our Madera, CA 93637-4406 Lady of Guadalupe at the Mexico phone: (559) 673-3290 ӹӹFr. Joseph Sibilano, O.S.J. (Director) site of the new church. The ■■ The Eleventh International St. Joseph Sym- fax: (559) 673-6471 ӹӹFr. Alvaro de Oliveria Joachim, O.S.J. web: http://www.sjoachim.org ӹӹFr. Raymond Tabon, O.S.J. grotto features a handmade posium took place in Texcueca, Jalisco, México, email: [email protected] mosaic of the image of the from September 29 to October 6, 2013. The ӹӹFr. John Warburton, O.S.J. (Pastor) virgin of Guadalupe that Symposium featured conferences and presen- Loomis & Granite Bay, CA ӹӹFr. Gustavo López, O.S.J. was commissioned by the tations on such diverse topics as “The Two ӹӹFr. Shaji Athipozhi, O.S.J. Mount St. Joseph Novitiate & Seminary parish and completed by Trinities, Heavenly and Earthly: Foundations 6530 Wells Ave. (Mail: PO Box 547) Loomis, CA 95650 the world renowned Vati- of a Theology of the Family;” “St. Joseph in the Bakersfield, CA can Mosaic Studio. Writings of Edith Stein;” and “The Holy Spous- phone: (916) 652-6336 Our Lady of Guadalupe Church fax: (916) 652-0620 es Rosary.” Fr. Larry Toschi, O.S.J., represented 601 East California Ave. web: http://www.mountstjoseph.org the Holy Spouses Province and presented a Bakersfield CA 93307-1143 ӹӹFr. Matthew Spencer, O.S.J. (Rector) Philippines paper to the participants. phone: (661) 323-3148 ӹӹFr. Philip Massetti, O.S.J. (Pastor) ■■ In 1915, the first Oblate missionaries to fax: (661) 323-6016 ӹӹFr. Sergio Perez, O.S.J. leave Italy arrived in the Philippine Islands to web: http://www.guadalupebakersfield.org ӹӹBro. Mathew Chipp, O.S.J. ӹӹBro. David Pohorsky, O.S.J. serve the people and share their love for Jesus, Brazil ӹӹFr. Larry Toschi, O.S.J. (Pastor) Mary, and Joseph. The Oblates of St. Joseph ■■ The Center for Josephite-Marellian Spiri- ӹӹFr. Chummar Chirayath, O.S.J. ӹӹFr. Steven Peterson, O.S.J. St. Joseph Marello Church are preparing for the centernary celebration tuality in the Americas (under the guidance 7200 Auburn Folsom Road of the continual presence of the Oblates in the of the Oblates of St. Joseph) is pleased to Granite Bay, CA 95746 Philippines for the last 100 years. The Supe- announce the Fifth Theological and Pasto- Hazleton, PA phone: (916) 786-5001 rior General, Fr. ral Congress on Holy Annunciation Parish fax: (916) 786-5011 Michele Piscopo, St. Joseph, to take St. Gabriel Church web: http://www.stjosephmarello.org/ O.S.J., has asked place from Septem- 122 S. Wyoming Street email: [email protected] Hazleton, PA 18201 Oblates and ber 23 to 28, 2014 Oxnard, CA Oblate laity from in Curitiba, Brazil. phone: (570) 454-0212 fax: (570) 459-5187 St. Joseph Marello House of Studies around the world The event will be web: http://www.holyannunciation.com/ 200 South E Street to be aware of sponsored by the email: [email protected] Oxnard, CA 93030-5704 the celebrations Oblates and is open ӹӹFr. Gregory Finn, O.S.J. (Pastor) phone: (805) 385-2332 that are begin- to Oblates and ӹӹFr. Victor León, O.S.J. fax: (805) 487-1510 ӹӹFr. Daniel Schwebs, O.S.J. ning even this Oblate laity from ӹӹFr. Mariusz Beczek, O.S.J. (Rector)

year and leading around the world. ӹӹBro. Stephen Spencer, O.S.J. States the United Communities and Ministries in Oblate of Directory

18 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 19 From the Editor’s Desk

New Beginnings, New Endeavors by Fr. Matthew Spencer, O.S.J.

It is hard to believe that only a few weeks back we said good bye to 2013 and ushered in a new year. Are you still thinking about your New Year’s resolutions!?

We laugh at our New Year’s res- Most of these things are cer- tions on our charism as Oblates olutions, we get frustrated that they tainly more important than this of St. Joseph, articles about our are so quickly forgotten, and we humble magazine, but what all of spirituality and about the Church, wonder why we continue to make these different undertakings have in and news from around the country them. But the fact is that whenever common is that they are not ends and the world. But most impor- a new year rolls around, we think in and of themselves: we do not tantly, we pray that what you find again about how we can improve change communities just to be with in this magazine might enkindle in our lives. And this is a good thing! different people, nor embrace new you a new love for your faith and Every new beginning must in- ministries just for the fun of it, nor for our God who loves us so much. evitably bring with it new endeav- do we present this magazine to you We hope that what you read in this ors, new efforts on our part to make simply to appreciate the images and and future issues will inspire you the most of a articles it contains. In fact, all of our to strive for holiness in imitation of change in our new endeavors—whether they are the Holy Family of Nazareth. We life. This has our New Year’s resolutions or the know that if you do, you will grow certainly been beginnings of a New Province for in appreciation for the persons of the case for the the Oblates of St. Joseph—should Mary and Joseph, who always lead Oblates of St. be oriented to give glory to God, us into greater unity with Jesus. Joseph living and to lead us into a deeper rela- May all of your new endeavors Remember the Oblates of St. Joseph in your Will and Estate Plan and working in tionship with Him through our this year lead you to know, love and the United States this past year. In Blessed Mother and her husband St. serve our Lord Jesus Christ with A simplest way to make a gift to the Oblates of St. Joseph is through a bequest in your will. Such bequests help us continue our mission the foundation of our new Province, Joseph. With this inaugural issue of greater fidelity! in many ways. They support our missionary efforts both within and outside of the U.S.A, provide upkeep and assistance to our poorer we as Oblates have had to take on our new Province magazine I want houses and ministries of the Province, and assist in the cost of forming candidates for the brotherhood and the priesthood. new endeavors in so many ways: to state for the record to you, our Fr. Matthew serves as Director Here is the suggested wording you can use when writing a charitable bequest to the Oblates of St. Joseph: new communities, new locations, dear friends and collaborators, that of Communications for the Holy “I, (your name), of (city, state, zip), give and bequeath to the Oblates of St. Joseph of the Holy Spouses Province new ministries, new perspectives— this also is our hope for you! Spouses Province and as rector at U.S.A., (written amount, percentage of residuary estate, or description of specific property) for its unrestricted and of course, this new magazine We have many wonderful things Mount St. Joseph Seminary and use and purpose.” you are holding in your hands! in store to share with you through Novitiate in Loomis, CA. You can For more information, please contact the Provincial headquarters: this new quarterly magazine: reflec- reach him at [email protected]. Oblates of St. Joseph 544 West Cliff Dr., Santa Cruz, CA 95060 20 Custos • Winter 2013-2014 phone: (831) 457-1868 • email: [email protected] Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Santa Cruz, CA Permit No. 276 544 West Cliff Dr. Santa Cruz, CA 95060-6147 Address Service Requested

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