Diocese of San Angelo Find The Diocese of San Angelo on iocese olic D of Sa Facebook ... and at our web site, ath n A West Texas 50th Anniversary C n n ge www.sanangelodiocese.org a lo m , o T Mass R e

e x a h s 11 a.m., Sunday T IN THIS MONTH’S ANGELUS: October 16, 2011 San Angelo Coliseum ‘The fasting I want’ One of the ancient religious practices of God’s people is the THIS MONTH: call to fasting and doing New prayer written for the 19 1 penance. However, the kind of diocese’s 50th anniver- 61-201 Serving the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas fasting that God asks is not for just external actions or giving up sary observance, Pg. 6 Volume XXXI, No. 3 MARCH 2011 things, but a fasting that leads to a change of heart and to reach out in compassion and love to the poor, needy and Beatification of Pope John Paul II set for May 1 abandoned. / Pg. 2 By Carol Zimmermann Many in the crowd were young people youths, in response to the thousands of CALENDAR Catholic News Service who had a special affinity to Pope John young people praying and singing in St. MARCH Paul, whose pontificate started and ended Peter's Square. WASHINGTON -- The news of Pope with a special greeting to young people. "I sought you and now you have come 6 -- 9th Sunday in Ordinary Time John Paul II's upcoming beatification was During his installation ceremony in 1978, to me. ... I thank you," said the pontiff, 9 -- Ash Wednesday welcomed by many as a confirmation of the newly named pope told youths: "You who died April 2, 2005 at age 84. 13 -- First Sunday of Lent 19 -- St. Joseph, husband of the Blessed something they already felt from the are the future of the world, you are the Basilian Father Thomas Rosica, Virgin Mary moment the shouts of "Santo subito!" hope of the church, you are my hope." founder and CEO of Canada's Salt and 20 -- Second Sunday of Lent ("Sainthood now!") reverberated through And his last words, reportedly deliv- 25 -- The Annunciation of the Lord St. Peter's Square at the pontiff's funeral. ered hours before his death, were also to (Please See BEATIFICATION/23) 27 -- Third Sunday of Lent West Texas Catholic Reports from Cairo Senators Cornyn, Hutchison reject bishops’ stands on START Treaty,

A protester DREAM Act bills holds up a cru- Latin American Religious Art on exhibit at cifix during By Jimmy Patterson Odessa’s Ellen Noel Art Museum/Pg. 12-13

Egypt’s his- The Angelus

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED SERVICE ADDRESS SAN ANGELO TX 76902-1829 SAN TX ANGELO toric uprising, SAN ANGELO OF DIOCESE at left; above, Texas’ 4.4 million Catholics may Midland High have a voice with the bishops who 1829 BOX PO graduate shepherd them, but that does not Maggie Hyde. necessarily translate to the faithful having a voice with their elected U.S. Senators. Kay Bailey Hutchison and John Cornyn, the ‘We are of one hand; we are Egyptian’ state’s two Republican Senators in Washington, voted against impor- Midland High, Notre Dame grad hopeful for Egyptians tant recent legislation -- bills that would have lessened the threat of By Jimmy Patterson Maggie Hyde, a graduate of Midland nuclear war and would have called Editor / The Angelus High School currently working as a for more humane treatment for reporter for the Associated Press in Cairo, immigrants. We hear often about the disdain Muslims heard the chants first. Both bills opposed by Cornyn

‘We are all one; we are Egyptians.’ The and Hutchison were supported by POSTAGEPAID US NONPROFIT ORG. NONPROFIT

have for Christians and the Western world. TX SAN ANGELO, We read about terrorist attacks and perse- mantra came from a protective circle the state’s bishops, according to 44 NO. PERMIT cution of those of the faith, bombings at Muslims had formed around Christians dur- the Texas Catholic Conference, an churches and kidnappings of Christian mis- ing a weekly service they conducted in organization devoted to social jus- sionaries. Tahrir Square, the site of the protests and tice issues and public policy. What happened in Cairo during Egypt’s subsequent overthrow of President Hosni Cornyn and Hutchison voted recent revolution, though, went largely Mubarak and his 30-year dictatorial regime. along party lines in opposing the under-reported. (Please See HYDE/20) START Treaty and the DREAM Act. (Please See JUSTICE/20) Page 2 MARCH 2011 The Angelus From the Bishop’s Desk ‘This is the fasting that I want for you during Lent’ By Michael D. Pfeifer asking, “Why do we fast, and you do not see it? every yoke; Sharing your bread with the hungry, Bishop of San Angelo Afflict ourselves and you take no note of it?” sheltering the oppressed and the homeless; God’s reply pierces the human heart, and Clothing the naked when you see them, and not One of the ancient religious practices of God’s shouts out the kind of fasting desired by God: “Lo, turning your back on your own. Then your light people, even down to our day and time, is the call on your fast day you carry out your own pursuits shall break forth like dawn and your wound shall to fasting and doing penance. However, the kind of and drive all your laborers. Yes, your fast ends in quickly be healed…Then you shall call and the fasting that God asks is not for just external quarreling and fighting, striking with wicked Lord will answer, you shall cry for help and he actions or giving up things, but a fasting that leads claw…Is this the manner of fasting I wish, of will say: Here I am!” to a change of heart and to reach out in compas- keeping a day of penance…. Do you call this a The Prophet Isaiah in his earlier writings said Pfeifer sion and love to the poor, needy and abandoned. fast, a day acceptable to the Lord?” that sacrifices and fastings were worthless if the In this regard, it is good during Lent to read God goes on to explain the meaning of true widow and the orphan were neglected. However, over the type of fasting that the Lord wants for us fasting: “This rather is the fasting that I wish: he points out that when self-abnegation results in as given by God through the great Prophet Isaiah. releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs In Isaiah, Chapter 58, the people almost scold God of the yoke; Setting free the oppressed, breaking (Please See BISHOP/23) DIOCESAN BRIEFS Healing Conference CKRC, San Angelo MIDLAND -- Are you seeking “God’s Healing Letter from the Bishop g Spanish Women’s Cursillo # 347, Sept 8-11, Love through Prayer”? First Presbyterian St. Joseph’s, San Angelo Church in Midland will be hosting a “Healing March, 2011 g English Women’s Cursillo # 348, Sept 22- and Wholeness Conference” March 25-26 25, St. Agnes, Ft. Stockton g which is during the Lenten Season. Dr. Joe Dear kind people of the Diocese of San Angelo: English Men’s Cursillo # 349, Oct. 20-23, Johnson, Community Life Pastor of Grace St. Joseph, Stanton g Lutheran Church, Huntington Beach, Calif., will The Catholic Church has a rich history. “Today, we continue to build the Spanish Men’s Cursillo # 350, Nov 17-20, be leading our community through teaching, Church.” Soon you will be asked at your parish to participate in the Annual Sacred Heart, Coleman For more information, call Oscar Hinojos worship and prayer to minister the Father’s National Collection for the Black and Indian Missions. Your contributions support love and blessing and connect believers to the (432-559-7695) for English Cursillos or Elio missionaries in the United States who are evangelizing in the Black an Gaytan (432-528-1670) for Spanish Cursillos. Father’s heart. Pastor Joe received his M.Div Indigenous Catholic community. I ask you to give generously to this appeal. from Luther Seminary and his D.Min. from It is only through the constant generosity of Church members that evangeliza- Fuller Theological Seminary. He is the director Married 82 years of Heart of the Father Ministry. tion efforts among Black and Native American, Eskimo and Aleut communities SAN BERNADINO, Calif. – Worldwide Lent will be a time of preparation for Christ’s have been possible for more than one hundred years. Churches and schools in Marriage Encounter, the original faith based death & resurrection. It will be a time for con- African American and Native American Indian communities depend on the annu- marriage enrichment program in the United templative reflection and a time of refocusing al evangelization grants to a continue their programs and pastoral activities. States, announced Marshall and Winnie our lives. “EMBRACING GOD’S HEALING On March 13, all will be asked to participate in the Black and Indian Mission Kuykendall of Lordsburg, NM., married 82 LOVE THROUGH PRAYER” will be the focus of Collection. You evangelize by strengthening the faith, continuing the legacy and years on Feb. 14, are the winners of the WME our ecumenical Conference. No admission will sharing the mission. This year’s theme reminds us that evangelization is a bap- Longest Married Couple Project. be charged; “love offerings” will be accepted. tismal call to holiness. Thank you for your past generosity and let us pray for the “What a privilege and honor it is to recognize Lunch will be provided on Saturday for a small success of this year’s campaign. the Kuykendalls for their commitment to mar- fee. Those churches that are presently involved Your servant in Christ and Mary, riage,” said Scott and Karen Seaborn, the in the planning & support of the event are St. Most Rev. Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI United States Ecclesial Team for WWME. The Ann’s Catholic Church, Our Savior’s Lutheran Bishop of San Angelo Seaborns serve with Fr. Tom Griffith, SVD, as Church and host church: First Presbyterian the U.S. leadership for the marriage enrich- Church. Other area churches will be co-spon- ment movement. sess good public relations skills and meet the of the Son: A Spiritual Rosary Book and Marian soring this event. Watch for more information in The Kuykendalls were married Feb. 14, qualifications required by Texas Catholic Guide. The book, published by Spirit of the next few weeks. If you are interested in par- 1929. Originally from Arizona they eloped to Conference Education Department (TCCED). Leadership, Inc., a 501(c)(3) that supports semi- ticipating in a “healing team”, please contact get married five months after meeting each Salary is negotiable commensurate with experi- narians and Catholic education, is intended to Sally Green: [email protected] or other. The New Mexico couple achieved the ence and qualifications. Interested persons draw men and women more deeply into the Jean Kiker: jbkiker@suddenlink. net. honor of being the Longest Married Couple may request Application Packet from: The mysteries of Christ’s life, death and resurrection based on the over 300 nominations submitted. Search Committee, St. Mary’s Central Catholic and to strengthen devotion to the Virgin Mary. The longest married couple nominated from Principal opening School,1703 North Adams, Odessa, TX 79761 “Reflections of the Son” retails for $15.95 ODESSA -- St. Mary’s Central Catholic Texas were Ross & Clarabelle Snodgrass, of PH: (432) 337-6052 with discounts available for bulk orders. For School in Odessa is seeking applications for Kerrville, married 77 years. A completed application, resume, and refer- ordering information, visit SpiritLeadership.org, Elementary School principal with 216 students ence letters must be sent, by April 10, 2011, to email [email protected] or call (predominately Hispanic but multi-ethnic). The Scheduled Executions Sr. Elizabeth Anne Swartz, SSND, 800.796.4166. candidate must have demonstrated leadership The Angelus publishes the execution dates Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Office of abilities in his/her past or present educational of Texas offenders on death row each month Education, 499 St. Matthews St., El Paso, TX, 2011 Cursillo Dates assignments and must be a practicing Catholic so that the faithful in the Diocese of San Angelo 79907. g Spanish Women’s Cursillo # 343, May 12- actively committed to developing a faith-com- can pray for them. The following offenders face For more info, call 915-872-8426 Ext. 426 15, St. Joseph’s Church, Stanton. munity. The candidate should have a minimum upcoming execution dates. Please pray for or fax: (915) 872-8464 g English Women’s Cursillo # 344, June 23- three years of teaching experience, two or them as well as the victims, families and all 26, Christ the King Retreat Center, San more years of school administrative experience who are affected by violence: ‘Reflections of the Son’ Angelo. (preferably in a Catholic school setting), and a Offender/Scheduled Execution Date: Tony Frasco, son in law to Midland parish- g Spanish Men’s Cursillo # 345, July 21-24, Master’s Degree or equivalent in Educational Cleve Foster/April 5 ioner Fran Havlak of the Lay Carmelites, has St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Odessa. Administration. The candidate must also pos- Cary Kerr/May 3 recently published a book entitled “Reflections g English Men’s Cursillo # 346, July 28-31, The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 3

DIOCESAN DATES Family Life and Marriage Bishop’s Calendar St. Margaret Church 22 -- SAN ANGELO, 7 pm – St. 10 tips for praying with your spouse MARCH Joseph, Good Friday service (Editor’s Note: The following is from the USCCB’s For day. 10-11 -- SAN ANTONIO, Texas 23 -- SAN ANGELO, Easter Your Marriage Web Site, www,foryourmarriage.org). 4. Decorate your domestic church. When we enter Conference of Churches Vigil, 8 pm, Sacred Heart our parish church, the statues and pictures focus our 13 -- SAN ANGELO, Sacred Cathedral 24 -- SAN ANGELO, Mass at 10 The baby’s crying, the dog is whining, and you need minds on Jesus, Mary and the saints. We can create an Heart – Rite of Election at 2 p.m. to leave for work in five minutes. Finding time for 17 -- SAN ANGELO, Christ the am at St. Mary Church atmosphere for prayer in our home- the domestic King Retreat Center – Retreat for 25 -- SAN ANGELO, Bishop’s prayer can seem impossible. Amid the busyness of church- by displaying a crucifix, icons, the Bible and Bishop’s Staff at 10:00 a.m. residence – Easter dinner for staff, family life, how can one respond to God’s ongoing other holy objects. Take the children to a religious 19 -- SAN ANGELO, Sacred 6 pm invitation to speak with and listen to Him? Here are goods store and let them choose a picture or statue for Heart Cathedral – Retreat for 26-28 -- Rest and prayer ten pointers to help you do just that. their rooms. Guadalpanas – 9 am-3 pm. 28-29 -- SAN ANTONIO, MACC Board of Trustees meeting 1. Pray as you can, not as you can’t. God calls most 5. Short prayers count, too. When you’re stopped at 20 -- EDEN, St. Charles – Mass Christians to an active life in the world, with family, at 11 a.m. 30 -- MIDLAND, Confirmation at a long light or put on hold, consider it as God’s invita- 22 -- SAN ANGELO, Diocesan 5:00 pm at St. Ann Church work and community responsibilities. Such a call, tion to turn your heart and mind to him, if only for a Pastoral Center – Meet with while holy, does not usually allow for long periods of few seconds. Students from McMurry College of Christ the King prayer and reflection. Lay people can become discou- 6. Find God at work. Connecting with God in the Abilene at 11:00 a.m. Retreat Center raged when they try to pray like a cloistered contem- workplace takes effort. Try to cultivate a few simple 22 -- SAN ANGELO, Holy MARCH plative. Be realistic about what’s possible. habits. For example, offer the day to God as you turn Angels – Presentation to RCIA at 14 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp 2. Take ten — or twenty. If a half hour for prayer 6:30 pm. on your computer, or pray for the person you’re about 15 -- Adoration, 5-6 pm 23 -- SAN ANGELO, Diocesan isn’t possible, how about ten minutes, or twenty? to call or wait upon. Pastoral Center – Diocesan Legal 17 -- Diocese Staff Day of Choose a good time of day and stick with it. 7. Jump start your prayer life. Sooner or later almost Team Meeting at 11:00 a.m. Reflection Designate a special site for prayer so that spot become everyone experiences dryness in prayer. God seems 26 -- ODESSA, St. Mary – 20 -- CKRC Confirmation Retreat holy. Spouses can help by minding children during far away and prayer becomes a burden. Praying with Diocesan School Commission 21 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp 22 -- Adoration, 5-6 pm respective quiet times. Scripture, perhaps the daily Mass readings, can help meeting at 9:00 a.m. 3. Pray as a family. Build upon rituals such as grace 27 -- SHEFFIELD, Good 25-27 -- Healing Ministry us focus. So, too, can an inspirational book, especially Shepherd – 9:00 a.m. Training for Laity before meals. In addition to the usual “Bless us, O one of the spiritual classics. A good choice is St. 29 -- Bishop’s Lenten Retreat 28 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp Lord…,” encourage family members to offer thanks Francis de Sales’ Introduction to the Devout Life, 29 -- Sierra Vista Methodist for the blessings of the day, as well as prayers for written specifically for lay people who are striving for APRIL Church Gathering those in need. Couples can deepen their spiritual rela- holiness. 1 -- Bishop’s Lenten Retreat 29 -- Adoration, 5-6 pm tionship by taking a few minutes, perhaps before bed- (Please See PRAYER/21) 3 -- OZONA, Confirmation at Our time, to commend to God the joys and sorrows of the Lady of Perpetual Help, Ozona, 11 APRIL am 3-5 -- Texas Realtor Leadership 4 -- ABILENE, Holy Family – Program Del Escritorio del Obispo Night of Prayer at 6:30 pm 4 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Group 5 -- SAN ANGELO, Sierra Vista 5 -- Adoration, 5-6 pm Esto dice el Senor: El ayuno que yo United Methodist Church presenta- 7-10 -- Women’s Walk to tion on the Stations of the Cross at 10 am Emmaus quiero de ti es este durante la Cuaresma 6 -- MENARD, Confirmation at 11 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp 12 -- Deacons Quarterly Mtg. 6:30 pm Por el Obispo Miguel Pfeifer, OMI ayunan, sí, para luego reñir y disputar, para dar puñe- 9 -- ROWENA, Confirmation at 12 -- Adoration, 5-6 pm St. Joseph Church at 5:00 pm 15-16 -- First United Methodist tazos sin piedad… ¿Acaso es éste el ayuno que me 10 -12 -- SAN ANTONIO, Texas 17 -- CKRC Confirmation Retreat Una de las prácticas religiosas antiguas del pueblo agrada? ¿Es esta la mortificación que yo acepto del Bishops meeting at Oblate 18 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp de Dios, aun hasta nuestro día y tiempo, es la llamada hombre? A esto llaman ayuno y día agradable al Renewal Center 19 -- Adoration, 5-6 pm de ayunar y hacer penitencia. Sin embargo, el tipo de Señor?” 12 -- WALL, Confirmation at 22-24 -- Office Closed – Holy ayuno que Dios pide no es solamente para acciones Dios explica el significado de un verdadero ayuno: 6:30 pm Week/Easter externas o para renunciar cosas, más bien es un “El ayuno que yo quiero de ti es este, dice el Señor: 14 -- SAN ANGELO, Chrism 25 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Grp ayuno que nos lleva a un cambio de corazón y expre- Que rompas las cadenas injustas y levantes los yugos Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral at 26 -- Adoration, 5-6 pm 11 am Presbyteral Council meeting 29-May 1 Beginning Experience sar compasión y amor al pobre, opresores; que liberes a los oprimidos y rompas todos at 1 pm necesitado y abandonado. los yugos; que compartas tu pan con el hambriento y 15 -- SAN ANGELO, Newman En este respeto, es bueno que abras tu casa al pobre sin techo; que vistas al desnudo Center Appreciation dinner Necrology durante la Cuaresma leamos sobre el y no des la espalda a tu propio hermano. Entonces 16 -- ELDORADO, Confirmation APRIL tipo de ayuno que el Señor quiere surgirá tu luz como la aurora y cicatrizarán de prisa at 6 pm 2-Deacon Lassaro Sevier (2009) 17 -- SAN ANGELO, Palm para nosotros dado por Dios por el tus heridas…Entonces clamarás al Señor y él te res- Sunday Mass at Sacred Heart 3-Deacon Edward Martinez gran Profeta Isaías. En Isaías, ponderá; lo llamarás y él te dirá: ‘Aquí estoy’”. Cathedral at 9:45 am (1985) Capitulo 58, la gente casi regañando Mas antes el Profeta Isaías en sus escritos dijo que 19 -- SAN ANGELO, Penance 16-Deacon Eliseo Carrillo (1989) a Dios pregunta, “¿Para que ayuna- sacrificios y ayunos eran inútiles si la viuda y el Service at 7:00 pm at Sacred 17-Rev. Lee Zimmermann, C.M. huérfano fueran descuidados. Sin embargo, él indica (2000) mos, si tu no nos ves? ¿Para que nos Obispo Heart Cathedral mortificamos, si no te das por entera- Miguel Pfeifer que cuando el negarse a uno mismo resulte en bien 21 -- SAN ANGELO, Holy 19-Rev. John Lavin (1983) OMI Thursday Mass at 7:00 pm at 19-Deacon Hubert Collins (1999) do?” para el pobre y el impotente, entonces Dios está más Sacred Heart Cathedral 21-Rev. Thomas Leahy (1969) La respuesta de Dios penetra el corazón humano, y dispuesto a escuchar. Para ser claro, no es el dolor de 22 -- SAN ANGELO, Good 23-Rev. Louis Droll (2006) grita el tipo de ayuno deseado por Dios: “Es que el negarnos que satisface a Dios, sino el servicio dado Friday – Soup lunch at Noon; Way 25-Deacon John Munoz (2007) día en que ustedes ayunan encuentran la forma de of the Cross Procession at 1 pm, 29-Deacon Robert Daigle (1986) hacer negocio y oprimen a sus trabajadores. Es que (Mira OBISPO/23) Page 4 MARCH 2011 The Angelus One Year Later ... Bishop calls for help with Diocesan Pro-Life Plan By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI Americans on Abortion THE U.S. ABORTION RATE has been on a general decline March marks one year since the publication of our More Americans identify themselves as “pro-life” than as for the past 30 years. new Diocesan Pro-Life Plan for the Unborn for the entire “pro-choice.” Percent of U.S. adults who... Diocese of San Angelo. I am featuring that plan once Abortion rate per 1,000 women ages 15-44 again in this article, and pleading—as I have done so % % often—with all of our priests, deacons, women religious, 86 69 30 29.3% all pastoral leaders and Catholic organizations, to imple- would think it is appropriate ment this plan to proclaim loudly and clearly that we are significantly for religious leaders to restrict abortion speak out on abortion pro-life at every stage of life—beginning at conception. 25.0% At conception! If the right to life is destroyed through 25 abortion, all other rights lose their meaning. Since 1973, 53 million precious unborn have been killed. Pope John 60% 53% 19.6% Paul II stated, “Abortion is the most unjust execution.” 20 would limit abortion believe abortion 19.4% I am especially asking that this plan be studied and to cases of rape, incest does more harm implemented by our priests at their deanery meetings, by or to save the life of a than good to a 16.3% all of our pastoral councils, and by all Catholic organiza- mother — or would not woman in the long 15 allow it at all term tions, like Knights of Columbus, ACTS, Cursillistas, ‘73 ‘77 ‘81 ‘85 ‘89 ‘93 ‘97 ‘01 ‘05 ‘08

The survey of 1,223 Americans was conducted May 28-31 and has a margin of error of +/-3 percent. Guadalupanas, Catholic Daughters, Legion of Mary, Source: Guttmacher Institute ©2011 CNS youth groups, and all other Catholic organizations. Sadly, Source: Knights of Columbus ©2009 CNS since publishing this plan one year ago, very few plan for the unborn. I especially ask the three deanery Pro-Life leadership groups of Midland, Abilene and San Catholics of our diocese have made an effort to imple- pro-life directors with their local committees to take the Angelo, to develop with me a Diocesan Pro-Life Plan for ment this entire plan that is vitally important for the pro- leadership in implementing this Plan. Enough has not the unborn. These three Pro-Life leaders (Presently: Jerry tection and safety of the unborn, and to bring an end to been done! Let us constantly ask the Holy Spirit for the Peters, Eric Fuselier, and Fr. Michael Rodriguez) form abortion, especially at the three Planned Parenthood cen- light, wisdom, knowledge, courage and love to act and our new Diocesan Pro-Life Committee, under the direc- ters in our diocese—in Midland, Abilene and San make this plan fully alive. tion of Jerry Peters, who is the Pro-Life Director for the Angelo. Here once again I present to you the Diocesan Pro- diocese. I am grateful to these three leaders representing MY SISTERS AND BROTHERS IN CHRIST: I Life Plan for the Unborn for the Diocese of San Angelo: the three deaneries of our diocese for the presence, time PLEAD WITH YOU, THAT YOU WILL ALL COME and effort they have given to help me develop this Pro- TOGETHER TO MAKE THIS PLAN OPERATIVE Life Plan for the unborn and to end abortion at the AND ALIVE IN OUR DIOCESE. AS I POINTED OUT DIOCESAN PRO-LIFE PLAN Planned Parenthood Centers. Now — I beg, encourage IN OTHER ARTICLES, OUR PRO-LIFE EFFORT FOR FOR THE UNBORN and pray that all of our people will come together in THE UNBORN IS OUR NUMBER ONE PRIORITY, By Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI implementing this plan. WHICH IS AN ESSENTIAL AND FOUNDATIONAL As we address this critical issue of abortion, we must PART OF OUR NUMBER ONE MINISTRY, WHICH In my preaching and writings I have stressed many be mindful that love and prayer are our main tools IS FAMILY LIFE AND MARRIAGE. times the necessity and responsibility of all the in overcoming this evil. This is the work of Christ and Yes, I am grateful for the efforts that have been made people of our diocese to more actively participate in the our Blessed Mother, and we are simply their to implement this plan, especially for the prayers that are pro-life ministry based on the God given dignity and agents, their instruments. offered in front of Planned Parenthood on special days sacredness of all human life from the moment of concep- The Bishop and our Diocesan Pro-Life Committee for and the support offered the pregnancy help centers. tion until its natural end as determined by God. We must the unborn ask all the priests and people of our However, all of our priests, deacons, women religious, be pro-life at every stage of life. In a particular way I Diocese to be more actively involved in the Diocesan pastoral leaders, Catholic organizations, need to make a have called all of our people — priests, deacons, women Pro-Life Ministry by supporting the following: greater and stronger effort to make this Plan be fully religious, pastoral leaders, teachers, members of all (While much of this applies primarily to parishes where alive in all of our communities. Remember, this is a Catholic organizations, especially the Knights of Planned Parenthood is located, all parishes are diocesan priority for all of our communities. Columbus - all people old and young — to be much asked to share in the program.) Communities of our deaneries outside of the cities where more proactive in supporting the precious life of the Planned Parenthoods are located must be involved unborn by combating the evil of abortions that take place Funding according to the Plan. Our most important means are in the three death centers of Planned Parenthood in 1. All the Knights of Columbus of all Councils are prayer, showing love for all, even for those who perform Midland, San Angelo and Abilene. I state again, that asked to be actively involved in all the dimensions of the abortions, and praying for their conversion, and much the protection of the unborn, overcoming abortion, and Diocesan Pro-Life Plan for the unborn. Specifically each more direct social, pastoral, religious and political action. reaching out to the parents, especially mothers, council of the Knights of Columbus in our diocese is Some come to pray; they are a small number in compari- who struggle with a pregnancy decision, must be the No. asked to give an annual contribution of at least $250.00 son to the total population –very few take a direct public 1 pastoral concern of our Diocese. Why? The reason is to the Diocesan Pro-Life Committee effective with each stance to proclaim our pro-life message. I refer to writing simple and clear - because we are dealing with a life and new fiscal year (July 1). letters to the editors and columns in the papers, and send- death issue, and the unborn needs our voices, our This could be either a contribution from the councils ing messages to our local, state and national leaders, prayers, our involvement, our action. This concern is an or KC supported fund raisers that involve parishes. The using more TV and the entire wider media. essential part of our No. 1 priority - Family Life and Pro-Life Committee will annually send a letter to all the My brother and sisters: I plead with you, for the sake Marriage. councils requesting this support to be sent to the Diocese of the unborn, and to bring an end to the terrible evil of For this purpose I have invited the leaders of the three abortion, that all of you become involved in this pro-life (Please See PLAN/22) The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 5

‘40 Days for Life’ in Midland begins on Ash Wednesday “Forty Days for Life” is a focused pro-life campaign with a vision to entreat God’s power through prayer, fasting and peaceful vigils outside abortion clinics all across America for (roughly) the 40 days prior to Easter. The mission of the campaign is to bring together the body of Christ in a spirit of unity during a focused 40 day campaign of prayer, fasting and With the introduction of the peaceful activism, with the purpose of repentance and seeking new Roman Missal the order God’s favor to turn hearts and minds from a culture of death and structure of the Mass to a culture of life, thus bringing an end to abortion in will not change. Catholics America. can expect some changes in This is a national effort and Midland Pro-Life supporters the wording of prayers and have registered with the national group and have a web responses beginning at Advent next year. Pictured address: www.40daysforlife.com/midland are people attending Mass at A few questions you may have about the effort: the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate How did it start? The origin of “40 Days” began in 2007 in College Station at Texas Conception in Washington. A&M, and it was during a “40 Days” campaign in the fall of 2009 (CNS photo/Nancy Wiechec) that Planned Parenthood director Abby Johnson left her job at the Bryan PP facility and went to the Coalition for Life office (the origi- nators of “40 Days”) for help (I strongly recommend her book “Unplanned” for all those active or contemplating becoming active Final preparations under way in the pro-life effort). The website details many victories won dur- ing “40 Days” campaigns. to receive new Roman Missal When is it in Midland? We in Midland have participated in several “40 Days” campaigns By Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI receive this special gift, which is our official prayer in the past and The Life Center has reported that the number of book. I once again especially encourage my brother women they see during “40 Days” increases, due to the prayers The final preparations are being made for the priests to make every effort to help all the people of and efforts of those outside PP who engage potential PP clients in implementation of the Roman Missal, Third Edition our diocese to promote effective catechetical efforts discussion and hand them factual literature on various topics. While the national campaign is 24-7 coverage outside abortion this coming Advent-2011. As it has already been to prepare all of our people well to receive this facilities for 40 consecutive days beginning March 9, we locally announced the final text of beautiful new Missal beginning will maintain a presence from 9 AM to 5 PM Monday through the Roman Missal for the KeyKey EventsEvents with the first Sunday of Advent. I Friday (PP’s business hours) from March 9 (Ash Wednesday) to Dioceses of the United am grateful for the work that has April 22 (Good Friday). The omRomanR an M issalMissal c oncontainstains the the pr prescribedescribed pr prayersayers and and States was received last instructionsinstructions for the celebrationcelebration of MMassass in the RRomanoman been done, and especially for the August, and now diligent CatholicCatholic Church.Church. TheseThese araree kekeyy eveventsents in in the the dev developmentelopment efforts that are being made by the What do I do? of the modernmodern missal. We ask that individuals make a one-hour commitment between work is being done to pre- Liturgy Commission of our diocese the hours of 9 AM and 5 PM one weekday each week during this pare the text for publication. 1963 2000 to prepare the faithful to receive period to pray outside Planned Parenthood’s abortion facility at There are currently seven Second VaticanVatican Council Pope John Paul II and pray the new Missal. the corner of Ft. Worth and Texas streets in Midland. For exam- different publishers who will calls for reform of the announces ‘third typical Already there are many aids both liturgy edition’ of missal ple, if you commit to 9 AM to 10 AM on Monday, you would go to be producing a variety of visual and written that are available the Ft. Worth/Texas intersection area on March 14, 21, 28 and editions of the Missal, 1969 2004 to help explain the reasons for the April 4, 11 and 18 for that one-hour period. Many simply pray out- Pope Paul VI issues ‘typical Draft translation given to side the facility, some hold signs visible by passers-by and some including one from the edition’ of Roman Missal English-speaking bishops changes in the new Missal, and engage potential clients in conversation and hand out literature United States Conference of especially to assist all of us to 1970 2010 about alternatives. You may sign up for a one-hour time slot via Catholic Bishops Creative VaticanVatican approves English VaticanVatican grants ‘recognitio’ receive the new Missal in a spirit of the website or by emailing or calling me. Services. Publishers have translation of Mass for English translation gratitude and faith so that we can permission to begin promot- pray it well in the official worship 1975 2011 How do I find out more? ing their products as of of our Catholic Church. The goal is We will hold 30-minute informational sessions (from 6:30 PM to 7 Pope Paul VI issues ‘second New Roman Missal in use February 1, and they are typical edition’ of missal at U.S. parishes beginning to encourage all to become familiar PM) on Monday March 7 at St. Stephen (4601 Neely in Midland) in late November. and on Tuesday March 8 at San Miguel (formerly Our Lady of San asked to closely work in col- with the new Missal so that there Juan, 1008 W. New Jersey), or you may call or email me. laboration with the will be the full, active, and con- Secretariat of Divine scious participation of all people, Why should I do this? Worship to assure delivery which is the desire of the Church. Last year, PP took the lives of 1,300 unborn children at their of ritual editions of the In these final months before we Midland facility, grossing about $750,000 in the process. Although PP is a tax-exempt organization, they are very focused on the bot- Missal on October 1, 2011. begin the official use of the Roman tom line; as Abby Johnson’s former boss told her, “Non-profit is a For some two years now I Missal, let us dedicate more time to tax status, not a business status”. PP facilities close when they have often reminded our study this beautiful prayer book, are no longer profitable, so by reducing the number of clients priests and faithful to pre- and especially ask the Holy Spirit to patronizing PP, their revenue decreases; redirecting their clientele pare for the implementation Source: U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops ©2010 CNS aid us and guide us to make it an to The Life Center in Midland during “40 Days” is a big step in of the Missal. I have made known different ways in active part of the public worship of our church, and eradicating PP from our community. If you don’t want PP in the Permian Basin, now is your chance to do something about it. which the pastors with their Pastoral Councils and to inspire our private prayer. other parish leaders can prepare each parish to Page 6 MARCH 2011 The Angelus The Diocese of San Angelo Celebrates 50 Years Prayer for the Diocese of San Angelo iocese Diocese of San Angelo olic D of Sa ath n A C n n ge on the Occasion of its 50th Anniversary Mass a lo m , o T R e 50th Anniversary e x a h s October 16, 2011 11 a.m., T All praise and glory are yours, loving Father, Sunday maker and ruler of the universe;

October 16, 2011 we praise you for calling us to be your people, your beloved sons and daughters, the members of the Church of San Angelo. San Angelo Coliseum 1 We offer thanks and praise to you, for all the 961-2011 blessings you have showered upon us, individually San Angelo and communally for the last 50 years of our diocesan community. FROM THE ARCHIVES: MAY 3, 1963 Guide our Diocese as we try to follow Jesus. Fill us with love for those in need of our help and U.S. Catholic population nears 44 million mark open our hearts to all. Editor’s Note: In this 50th 1,503,628. Others with more than Let your Spirit teach us to serve in love and to anniversary year of the Diocese, the 500,000 are Pittsburgh (906,928), praise you by our work and worship. Help us to West Texas Angelus will publish selected articles and photographs Buffalo (887,928), Cleveland become Salt of the earth and Light of the world. from the archives of the diocesan (834,367), Rockville Centre, NY newspaper. This article originally (735,165)), Trenton, NJ (538,130) We make this prayer through Mary to Christ, appeared in the May 3, 1963 edition and Providence, R.I. (525,274). Our Lord. Amen. of the West Texas Register). TEXAS CATHOLIC NEW YORK -- Catholics in the POPULATION NOW 551,000 Pioneer families 50 states, including all families of AMARILLO -- There are nearly In preparation for its 50th anniversary cele- the military, diplomatic and other bration, the diocese is looking for pioneer fami- a million more Catholics in the lies to be honored at a special dinner October services abroad, now number United States than there were a 43,851,538, according to the 1963 15 in San Angelo. To be considered for the year ago and about 44 percent honor, a pioneer family must have been Official Catholic Directory. more than 10 years ago. Catholics committed to their local parish when The new total represents an Of special interest to readers of the diocese was established in October 1961. increase over the past year of the West Texas Register, here’s the To have a family or friends considered, send 969,372 and a 10-year increase of your nominees and why they should be hon- comparative totals for the Dioceses ored to JimmyLeePatterson@ 13,426,523 or 44.1 percent over of Amarillo, San Angelo and the 30,425,015 in 1953. gmail.com, or talk to your pastor and have Galveston-Houston: him share your nomination with someone on The establishment of the new Number of Catholics in the dio- the diocesan 50th anniversary committee. Diocese of Fairbanks, formerly of ceses: Amarillo, 44,350; San the Vicarate of Alaska, brings the Angelo, 47,561; Galveston- One Mass number of dioceses to 120 with a Houston, 459,700. Bishop Michael Pfeifer has announced that Catholic population of Overall total population of the on Sunday, October 16, the day that marks the 25,182,498. This figure includes dioceses: Amarillo, 727,000; San 50th anniversary of the diocese’s official estab- the 2,000,000 Catholics reported Angelo, 600,000; Galveston- lishment, only one Mass will be celebrated in the Military Ordinariate. Houston, 2,500,000. throughout the diocese — at 11 a.m. at the VOCATION TEAM works out the final plans for Vocations San Angelo Coliseum. No masses will be said The 28 archdioceses reported a Total students under Catholic growth of 150,875 and th 120 weekend to be held in San Angelo at the Sacred Heart except for the anniversary Mass in San Angelo Cathedral gymnasium March 29-31 for 75 young people instruction: Amarillo, 11,853; San and pastors should advise their parishioners of dioceses 818,497. from the entire diocese. The weekend is planned for Angelo, 11,255; Galveston- The seven archdioceses with this. Ordinary masses of anticipation and per- young people who are searching for guidance and help in Houston, 58,911. haps added masses of anticipation will be said Catholic populations in excess of seeking their vocation in life. Pictured are, from left to on Saturday, Oct. 15 at individual parishes, but 1,000,000 are Chicago (2.2 mil- right, Sister Mary Eva, Fr. Thomas Seibt and Fr. Larry ——— there will be only one Mass in the entire dio- lion), Boston (1.7 million), New Droll. (Photo undated). cese on October 16.” Those unable to attend York (1.7 million), Newark (1.5 (Editor’s Note: The U.S. Catholic (1.26 million). population in 2010 was 68 million. A the anniversary Mass in San Angelo are dis- million), Los Angeles (1.47 million), 2006 census showed 6.7 million Catholics pensed of their obligation the weekend of Oct. Detroit (1.42 million) and Philadelphia Brooklyn continues as the largest dio- 15-16. cese with a Catholic population of in Texas.) The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 7 MACC prez stresses relation between culture, faith Office of Education and Formation to benefit our brothers and sisters in Haiti. It is evident SAN ANGELO -- On Saturday, that the generosity of the February 12, the Office of Education and People of God in the Formation hosted the annual Conference Diocese of San Angelo is Day at McNease Convention Center in overwhelming. San Angelo. The keynote speaker was Dr. Arturo Chavez, president and CEO of Mexican American Catholic College in San Antonio. Dr. Chavez spoke on culture and faith Far left, Dr. Arturo Chavez, and how the two are related. president of the Mexican “We encounter Jesus in many faces,” American Catholic College in San Antonio, speaks on Dr. Chavez said. “It is the stranger cultures and faith; at left, among us to whom we feed, embrace Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer and accept.” attended and later These encounters lead to conversion. presided over the closing We interpret these experiences from our Mass at the annual own cultural perspective – ethnocen- Diocesan Conference Day; trism. below, attendees discuss Dr. Chavez said culture is a gift and a the topics presented with- dynamic and noted cultures are not per- in their small groups. fect. Each contributes a gifted side and a presentation during the afternoon ses- shadow side and both must be acknowl- sion: “New Direction: Taking the Next edged. Culture is the geography of our Step.” He addressed the stages of inter- soul. It reflects our values, beliefs, our cultural respect: denial, defense, mini- inner clocks, our expressions. How do we mization, acceptance, adaptation and deal with the gathering of different back- integration. grounds? He reminded the participants He spoke of the challenge of living the that God is in the midst of that gathering. Gospel of inclusive love. The partici- Four breakout sessions were held: pants received a copy of the Decalogue “Nurturing Leadership in the Faith of Assisi for Peace. This is the commit- Community” with Dr. Chavez; ment made of leaders of many religions “Sacraments in the Everyday,” with Sister who gathered at the invitation of Pope Adelina Garcia, OSF; “Wisdom of the John Paul II on January 24, 2002 in Saints … A Delight in their Diversity,” Assisi, Italy, to pray to bring peace to a with Brenda Maiman, and “Welcoming troubled world. the Stranger,” with S. Estela Tovar, CDP. The day ended with the celebration of All were well attended and people were Eucharist presided by Bishop Michael D. very enthusiastic about them. Pfeifer, OMI. A collection was taken at Dr. Chavez continued with his second Mass. A total of $812.29 was collected Diocesan Charitable Foundation seeking endowments The Angelus ment while making grants from the narian education; The St. Mary’s Central check to: The Catholic Charitable endowments primarily from their earn- Catholic School, Odessa Endowment Foundation for the Roman Catholic The Catholic Charitable Foundation for ings each year. The Foundation is a Fund, The Holy Family Catholic Church Diocese of San Angelo, PO Box 1829, the Roman Catholic Diocese of San totally separate entity from the diocese (Abilene) Endowment Fund, The Robert San Angelo, TX 76902-1829 and indicate Angelo was established in the fall of and our funds are not co-mingled in any John Huot and Anne D. Huot the name of the endowment they wish to 2010. The Foundation is a vehicle for way. Endowment Fund for seminarian educa- support. The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) donors who wish to establish endow- Generous donors have established the tion and the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton organization so contributions are tax ments that will serve the diocese, a parish following endowment funds: An Catholic Church (Odessa) Endowment deductible within the limits established or a Catholic program in the Diocese of Unrestricted Fund that will be used to Fund. by the IRS. San Angelo in perpetuity. The Board of make grants throughout the diocese; the In addition to the above endowments, Persons interested in establishing a Trustees, chaired by Bishop Michael Joe C. and Mary Multer Moeller Fund as the foundation also manages the named endowment fund should contact Pfeifer and six additional trustees oversee given by their son Msgr. Louis B. Diocesan Seminarian Burse. The total Kathy Webster, President, 325-698-7206 the investment of funds. The funds are Moeller, an Unrestricted Endowment amount of all funds under management or [email protected], or Regina managed by professional investment Fund; The Matthew B. Fenner Memorial by the foundation is over $2,400,000. Bodiford, Secretary/Treasurer, 325-651- managers. The goal is to preserve the Designated Endowment Fund to assist Individuals may make contributions in 7500 or [email protected], for addi- purchasing power of the original invest- seminarians; the Marlene Del Davis any amount to any of the above estab- tional information. Designated Endowment Fund for semi- lished endowment funds by mailing their Page 8 MARCH 2011 The Angelus Catholic Voices State-sponsored killing on life support By Stephen Kent to kill, and it is apparent things are not thoughtful conversations" by state officials in exchange for his telling the locations of Catholic News Service favoring the proponents of state-sponsored "about whether Ohio's death penalty his victims' remains. killing. remains necessary, fair and effective." That deal caused a furor at the time. The death penalty in the United States is "It has bothered me from the beginning," The bishops of Ohio agree with Pfeifer Many since have questioned how any per- on life support. said Paul Pfeifer, who was a state senator and Collins. son can now be sentenced to death when Objection after objection is hurled at it, and helped write the state's death penalty "Murder rightly evokes moral outrage the person who committed more than four making it all but law in 1981. He is now an associate justice and a call for justice," they said in a state- dozen was spared. inevitable that it will of the Ohio Supreme Court, which must ment early this month. Finally, a review by the Associated Press crumble in the face of rule on multiple appeals. Pfeifer said an "Just punishment ... is a foundational finds most of the 35 states with the death these objections. option for life imprisonment without pos- moral principle within our justice system. penalty have -- or soon will -- run out of a Most recently, the state sibility of parole was wrongly excluded Just punishment can occur without resort- key lethal injection drug. Sodium thiopen- of Ohio, which has 157 from the legislation. ing to the death penalty.Every life has infi- tal became so scarce that a few states have people on death row, "I think the best answer is for the gover- nite dignity, because it is designed by God had to postpone executions.The delays became a microcosm of nor to just commute them all. We don't to be immortal," wrote the bishops. "Life could become more widespread across the the fate of capital pun- need the death penalty in Ohio any imprisonment respects the moral view that country, because of a decision of the sole ishment. Kent longer," he said. all life, even that of the worst offender, has manufacturer in the United States to stop In Ohio, the man who Terry Collins, the retired director of the value and dignity." producing it. helped write the law is now against it. The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and The worst offender is spending the rest In the face of opposition based on practi- man who supervised 33 executions under Correction, said he personally observed of his life in solitary confinement in cality, morality and legality, what rationale the law is now against it. And the bishops the execution of 33 men over 10 years. Washington State. Gary Ridgway -- the remains to continue capital punishment? of Ohio are against it, and — as they note "All 33 times in the back of my mind I infamous "Green River Killer" -- con- (Kent, now retired, was editor of arch- — so is God. questioned: What if we got it wrong for fessed in 2003 to the murders of 70 diocesan newspapers in Omaha and Add to that the fact that dozens of states those we executed?" Collins wrote in an women and has been charged with 49. The Seattle. He may be contacted at: consider- are running short of the chemicals needed Op-Ed piece calling for "serious and prosecution did not seek the death penalty [email protected].) Penalty on the NFL for holding back impoverished workers

By Tony Magliano Kernaghan said the 1,500 workers, most- Peace's Compendium of the Social rights. Catholic News Service ly women, are constantly cursed at and Doctrine of the Church insists that "Labor Please log onto the National Labor humiliated. Factory drinking water is filthy has an intrinsic priority over capital" (No. Committee (www.nlcnet.org) and sign Although the Pittsburgh Steelers lost the and contaminated. 277). Workers have their petition to the U.S. government Super Bowl, they won a bowl full of He added that women rights to a safe and regarding the Ocean Sky sweatshop. money. Each player are paid just eight cents These oppressed work- healthy workplace, to And please, take just a little more time to received a bonus of more for every $25 NFL T- ers and their families adequate rest, to a pen- write to: Ambassador Ron Kirk, Office of than $42,000. shirt they sew, meaning sion, to insurance for the United States Trade Representative, In the National Football their wages amount to are trapped in misery. If unemployment and 600 17th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. League, nobody loses. just three-tenths of one the NFL doubled the sickness, to maternity 20508 (Fax: 202-395-4549).Urge him to In 2009 the average percent of the NFL's women’s wages to just pay, to assemble and investigate and correct the serious abuses salary for players was$1.9 retail price. form associations, and suffered by workers at the Ocean Sky million, with a median Unions and collective 16 cents per shirt ... it to a just wage. sweatshop in El Salvador, where according income of $790,000. Most bargaining, which are wou9ld at least lift these "These rights are to the National Labor Committee, workers head coaches bring home Magliano enjoyed by the NFL workers out of misery often infringed, as is are denied basic labor rights that are writ- more than $2 million. And team owners' players, are harshly pro- and poverty. confirmed by the sad ten into, and supposedly guaranteed by, the average income is reported to be around hibited at Ocean Sky. fact of workers who are U.S.-Central America Free Trade $33 million. "These oppressed -- Charles Kernaghan underpaid and without Agreement. But all this wealth partly comes at the workers and their fami- Director protection or adequate And also request that he demand of expense of some very impoverished El lies, are trapped in mis- National Labor Committee representation. It often every corporation doing business in Salvadoran workers -- the real losers -- ery," said Kernaghan. happens that work con- Central America full compliance with all who are being crushed by the NFL. "If the NFL doubled ditions for men, women labor rights standards written into the Charles Kernaghan, the National Labor the women's wages to just 16 cents per and children, especially in developing U.S.-Central America Free Trade Committee's director, explained to me that shirt, this tiny raise in income would at countries, are so inhumane that they are an Agreement. at the Ocean Sky sweatshop in El least lift these workers out of misery and offense to their dignity and compromise Let's help impoverished workers win Salvador, where NFL T-shirts are sewn for into poverty." their health" (No. 301). their struggle for labor rights with greedy Reebok, the NFL's official uniform Surely, we're all in agreement that the It's time we penalize the NFL and all corporations. provider, workers report being drenched in NFL and Reebok could at least do this greedy corporations for holding -- holding Let's work to ensure that oppressed their own sweat, since afternoon factory much. back extremely impoverished workers apparel workers in El Salvador finally gain temperatures reach 98 degrees. The Pontifical Council for Justice and from gaining their basic human and labor an equal playing field with the NFL! The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 9 Catholic Voices II Don't ruin your future by texting and driving! By Karen Osborne phone on her way to school in November 2009, and time and makes it difficult to control your vehicle. Catholic News Service because of that, she lost control of her vehicle. Her truck But did you know that texting while driving can be skidded off the road and flipped over. Since Alex wasn't much worse? It seems like such a silly little thing, something ordinary wearing a seatbelt, she was thrown from the truck. Car and Driver Magazine once compared results from and completely normal that people do every day. Her mother, frantic after hearing she hadn't arrived at tests on people who drove drunk with people who were You're driving down a highway or a street or a little school, retraced her drive and found her dying by the side sober but texting. The shocking news was that the texters country road, and your phone beeps. of the road. did far worse than the drunks! Someone has texted you. It was a sunny day. There were no other cars on the The texters drifted into neighboring lanes, slammed on So, while driving, you fish out your road. There was no rain and no snow. the brakes far later than they should have, and generally phone, check your texts, and respond Today, her parents take the destroyed white pickup drove like they'd had eight beers at a keg party. quickly with your eyes glancing to the truck to schools across the country to inform teenagers of Responsible good people who would never think of road every so often to make sure you're the dangers of texting and driving. Every day, Alex's fam- imbibing and getting behind the wheel text and drive still on target. ily faces the horrible thought of life without her. every day. But just because we're completely sober does- No harm done, right? Alex's family was recently featured on the television n't mean we're completely safe. Alex Brown thought so. A high school show "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition." In a surprising In 2009, distracted driving -- texting, fiddling with the senior with curly blond hair, Brown sang Osborne segment, the show hired two NASCAR drivers -- profes- radio, checking e-mails, chatting and not paying attention soprano, played basketball, served as the sionals who spend hours upon hours behind the wheel, to the road -- killed more than 5,000 people. school mascot at football games, and had her sights on training to drive cars safely at ridiculous speeds. So when you're behind the wheel, remember Alex becoming valedictorian at her Texas high school. With their eyes on the road, the drivers were perfect, but Brown. If your phone rings, resist the temptation to check Her room, as shown on the television show "Extreme while receiving texts from assistants on the side of the your texts until you've arrived safely at your destination.= Makeover: Home Edition," was filled with medals and road, the pros looked more like teenagers on their first If you're in a car and a parent or friend is checking e- trophies earned from sports and activities. She was very driving lesson. mail while driving, tell them to put down the phone and much like a lot of the teenagers today that I know -- We all know that it is dangerous and illegal to drive pay attention to the road, to the other cars on the road, and happy, normal, full of dreams and excited about life. drunk. stay focused. But Alex took her eyes off the road to look at her cell We all know that drunk driving lengthens your response You have a bright and amazing future ahead of you. Inspiration for overcoming the crisis in Egypt Changed changer By Father Eugene Hemrick movement that provides education, reminded that they are to be the salt of Catholic News Service social development, faith values, pro- the earth and the light of the world. grams in health care and nutrition and There is one common denominator Many of the streets are unpaved and radio education. It has helped create within these two principles: lifting up, filled with ruts. Rubble and dust community cooperatives and business- enhancing, drawing out the best. abound, and clay bricks with hardened es in poor rural areas. Salt, when properly used, draws out mortar oozing out As I entered Fe y Alegria's court- the best flavors in food, making it look more like inte- yard, it was like walking into Shangri- more delightful. rior walls than the La. Its open-air center featured a beau- The same quality of enhancement finished walls of a tiful garden. Order and cleanliness holds true for light. When the day is home they are abounded everywhere. An example of sunny, cheerfulness abounds and we meant to be. that order was its immaculate cleanli- tend to have uplifted moods. Despite its ness, excellent use of job space and In stating that the apostles are salt squalor, bland archi- architectural design. If they aren't and light, Christ is commissioning tecture and adept in the 3 Rs -- reading, writing them to lift up the human spirit, and to depressed environ- Hemrick and arithmetic --courses are available make it more dignified, respected and ment, old and young alike carry on in on how to get jobs according to their exalted. the district of San Juan de Lurigancho abilities. This is exactly what the mission is in Lima, Peru. On another day, I visited a chapel of the Fe y Alegria school and clinics Recently, I was privileged to live that was under construction. An that I visited, and herein lies the true with the Congregation of Holy Cross, adjoining building was replete with meaning of being the salt of the earth who minister to this area. Ironically, I medical and social services for the and light of the world. It is where the found that the best enduring solution poor. human spirit is uplifted, and dignity for curtailing the Egyptian crisis is not Here we must ask, "What does this and honor are preserved. found at a conference table, but rather have to do with overcoming the When theseare missing and the it exists here among the poor. Egyptian crisis?" human spirit is suppressed and degrad- During my stay, I visited the school, In the Gospel for the fifth Sunday of ed, the door is left wide open for revo- Fe y Alegria, which is an international Ordinary Time, Christ's apostles are lutions. Page 10 MARCH 2011 The Angelus Making Sense of Bioethics Death hard despite grace, Church’s position care provided by others on in vitro is clear By Fr. Thad Pacholczyk ing of redemptive suffering. The nurse described how she and her mother By Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer Caregivers and health care professionals can had experienced this Christian understanding and often do greatly assist those who are suffer- themselves: "My Mom and I prayed hard and In this article, I share with you the teaching of the Catholic Church ing and dying. Even with careful much over this past year. She was expected to about in vitro fertilization that I have taken from the draft document on pain management and comfort die a year ago. As we began to understand that marriage of the U.S. Catholic Bishops about this vitally important issue. measures, however, the dying she was actually improving and that she (and I) IVF is a type of artificial insemination in which a new human being process can still be agonizing had been given this gift of time, we became is conceived by joining egg and sperm in a glass dish, not in the moth- and difficult. Each death has a increasingly devoted to the Divine Mercy of er’s body (“in vitro” is Latin for “in glass”). It further depersonalizes unique and particular trajectory, Jesus. I am of the opinion that God gave Mom the act of generating a child, turning it into a technical process in a lab- but even the most difficult and an opportunity to be on the cross with Him." oratory. This procedure is so far from a loving act of the spouses that is unpleasant deaths often have Real suffering engages a lot of complex emo- can even be used to conceive a child if neither of them is alive, for the powerful graces and remarkable tions. We may worry that our crosses will be body of neither one is involved in the act of generating this life once opportunities for growth myste- more than we can bear. We may not see how our sperm and egg are obtained and stored. Because these embryos are Pacholczyk riously interwoven into them. sufferings could really have any value or mean- deliberately created not in the nurturing environment of the mother’s Some time ago, I corresponded with a regis- ing. In the end, suffering can make us bitter or it body but in the poor substitute of a culture in a glass dish, the great tered nurse about her mother's final battle with can make us better, depending upon how we majority of them die. Many couples have exhausted their savings and lung cancer. She described the unexpected shifts respond to it and use it to enter into deeper ultimately abandoned their efforts without ever having a live-born child in her mother's condition that had taken place union with the Lord who suffered and died a from IVF. over a period of eight days: "…passing through hard death for us. By “producing” new human beings in the laboratory, IVF divides the a day of Cheyne-Stokes respirations [a pattern of I'm reminded of a story I once heard about a decision to welcome a new child into two separate decisions: whether deep breathing, followed by stoppage of breath- priest in Poland who taught at the seminary. to give rise to this new human being, and whether to transfer him or her ing, followed by repetition of the cycle], days of Each year, there had been fewer candidates to the mother’s womb. This has tempted fertility doctors and couples to such shallow breathing that death seemed literal- entering the seminary, rarely more than 8 or 9, exercise various forms of so-called “quality control” through genetic ly one breath away, days of calm coma, two and it was becoming a serious concern for the screening, so that only the embryos who seem most viable or have the days where the smell of imminent death was seminary and the diocese. One day, this priest most desired traits are given an opportunity to implant in their mother’s detectable, signs of diminished extremity perfu- learned he had a terminal illness, with only a womb. The embryos not selected are destroyed. Occasionally couples sions coming and then going, coming and then few months to live. Shortly afterwards, he have discovered that doctors transferred the “wrong” embryo, con- going, day after day, no urine output, then urine turned to God and said: "Lord Jesus, I will do ceived by another couple, causing distress for two families. output, then no urine, then urine again, emerge my best to offer up the sufferings that lie ahead The death rate of embryos conceived by IVF is so high that clinics from this state and embark upon three hours of of me, whatever they may be, but I would ask troutinely produce many of them and transfer several at once to the increasingly severe respiratory distress culminat- that you send us 18 new candidates for next mother’s womb, hoping that one will survive. If more embryos than are ing in a violent respiratory arrest." year's incoming class." The good priest faced an wanted continue developing in the womb, many clinics offer “selective No stranger to death and dying, this nurse had excruciating death, but a few months later when reduction” (targeted abortion) to eliminate the unwanted “extra” chil- assisted countless other patients with pain, air the candidates started showing up at the semi- dren. This can exact a terrible psychological toll on the couple, whose and hunger management. During her mom's nary, there were exactly 18 new students in the desire for a child has led them to a gravely immoral decision about tak- final hours, she had significantly increased mor- class. ing the life of one or more children in the mother’s womb. phine doses per hospice protocols, but with little His story speaks of how suffering has meaning Often embryos not used in a first attempt at pregnancy are frozen or no apparent relief. Her mother's death ended whenever we unite it to the redemptive suffer- and stored for future attempts. This also poses a serious risk to their up being very hard. Reflecting on it afterwards, ings of Christ. Our sufferings and struggles are lives. When their parents have as many live-born children as they she realized that if she had not been both a an important, albeit temporary, part of our jour- want, or abandon their efforts to have child through IVF, the remaining healthcare professional and a person who trusted ney. They are a harbinger of a greater destiny embryos are considered “excess” or “spare.” Some are thrown away as deeply in God, she would have been, to use her and a promise of our transformation. Pope John laboratory waste, while others are abandoned indefinitely in a frozen own words, "out of my mind with horror." Paul II once described it this way: "The cross of state or slated for experimental purposes. The current debate about Why certain deaths are so much harder than Christ throws salvific light, in a most penetrat- killing embryonic human beings on a large scale to “harvest” their others is no easier to explain than why certain ing way, on man's life... the cross reaches man embryonic stem cells arose partly because IVF clinics produced so lives are so much harder than others. It gives us together with the resurrection." Our experience many “spare” embryos, creating a terrible temptation for researchers to pause, though, to ask whether suffering doesn't of suffering and death, even a very hard death, find a “use” for these human beings no longer wanted by their parents. have some hidden but important meaning, how- offers us mysterious and dramatic graces, with Each of these abuses is a natural outgrowth of the original decision ever it enters our lives. As we seek to use the the reassurance that God himself is ever near to to turn the begetting of a child into a manufacturing process. This tools of medicine to alleviate the suffering of those who carry their cross. threatens to turn what should be the unconditional love and acceptance those who are dying, we realize how delicate a of parents for their sons and daughters into something more tentative balancing act it can be, fraught with difficult Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his doctor- and conditional. In this situation a new life may be highly valued—as a decisions about dosages and interventions, and ate in neuroscience from Yale and did post-doctoral way of meeting parents’ goals for family size, or of achieving other not always guaranteed to work. When pain and work at Harvard. He is a priest of the diocese of Fall goals such as scientific knowledge—but this human life is not respected suffering cannot be alleviated, patients ought to River, MA, and serves as the Director of Education at as human persons deserve to be respected. The National Catholic Bioethics Center in be helped to appreciate the Christian understand- Philadelphia. See www.ncbcenter.org The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 11 Reflections on the rosary and other random acts of kindness By Keelan K. O’Connell

BONDIA -- Greetings from East Timor! I never dreamed that when I graduated from Abilene-Wylie high school in 2008, I would be spending eight-months in a country on the other side of the world Keelan O’Connell, doing missionary work. But – today that center, of Abilene, is exactly what I am doing! Upon gradu- and a group of ating with my BS degree in Biology from Timoran orphans she St. Bonaventure University in NY last has ministered to in May, I became a volunteer with the her travels. Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (Salesian Sisters) and VIDES (Volunteers Courtesy photo International for Development Education Service). My everyday challenge is “Experiencing, Sharing Life in Christ.” I started my assignment in September 2010 in Venilale, East Timor, which is the poorest country in Asia. This mission has been a spiritual and educational adventure which has changed my life. My primary tasks here in Timor include teaching English, reading and writing to high school students and orphan girls dinner. It wasn’t long before this daily Spirituality Group and Deacon Dwayne Many of the orphans (aged 4-16), as well as assisting in a pro- routine, along with the spiritual inspira- Hennessey in Abilene, Texas. In God’s and school girls wear them around their bono medical clinic where I bandage tion provided by these girls, reinvigorated great goodness, they offered to enlist the necks and only take them off to pray! I wounds, perform malaria tests and dis- my prayer life and strengthened my per- help of Holy Family and Sacred Heart explained that the rosaries had been sent pense medications. I wasn’t sure what to sonal relationship with God. I wanted to Parishioners. By mid-December I by people from my church community, expect when I initially embarked on this return the spiritual favor, but how? received a box in the mail containing many of whom were their age. They great adventure; I had only been told I As Divine Providence would have it, more than 250 rosaries! Many had per- couldn’t believe that people who lived so would be working in an impoverished on October 7, the Feast of Our Lady of sonal messages attached from the Holy far away knew about them and cared village. Although these people who live the Rosary (which also happens to be my Family Confirmation Class. I was over- enough to send something to them! They here are fiscally poor (earning less than Birthday), I realized that most of these joyed and speechless! Since the high began asking me questions about the $800 a year), they are spiritually rich in faithful individuals lacked something school children and many of the orphans senders, such as “Who sent me mine? faith, love and hope! very basic — a rosary of their own! I had left for the Christmas holidays, I How old are they? What do they look At the school where I live and work, knew finding or making some here would decided to wait until they returned to like? Are they a student? What’s their 130 high school students, 120 orphan be impossible, so I shared this idea with share these blessings from Texas! job? etc.” I was really moved to see that girls (aged 4-16), 10 pre-aspirants, 5 my parents, Dennis & Janelle O’Connell, Needless to say, everyone was sur- they weren’t just interested in receiving a Sisters and myself attend daily mass and youth group ministers (Penny and prised and elated to receive their very gift; they were sincerely interested in pray the rosary together nightly before Howard Pope), Holy Family’s Men’s own rosary! They absolutely loved them! (Please See ROSARY/21) With water fast becoming a commodity, please observe World Water Day By Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer “stream of consciousness” experiences, human life, health and economic well- supply is expected to decrease by 18%, insights, understandings, judgments, feel- being. according to the 2007 Texas Water Tuesday, March 22 is World Water Day. ings, and deliberations. Decisions flow A few months ago, at a meeting of San Development Board Plan. Without this The United Nations first declared this day through our bodies and our minds. Water Angelo Mayor Alvin New with mayors of Plan officials say about 85% of Texas’ in 1993 as a way to focus public attention is a religious symbol for the life of grace, surrounding communities, the number population won’t have enough water in on critical water issues around the world. of the effect in a person’s life of the one issue of concern that surfaced was drought conditions – at a cost to busi- World Water Day calls attention to how experience of being in love with God. the importance of water, and how we nesses and workers at a projected $100 water crosses borders and links us togeth- Water availability and water quality should all work together to provide water billion a year. The discussion of water er. have become pressing social issues in our for the communities of West Texas. The supply for the state of Texas during the Modern science tells us that water is West Texas area, throughout the state and availability of water has become a major next 50 years occurs within the context of the stuff of life; water makes up 75 per- nation and world. Waste, drought, over- concern for the entire state of Texas, and an interesting dilemma. First, all know cent of our bodies and those of most liv- consumption, greed, pollution, privatiza- our country and the world. Texas, the that water is a scarce resource and that ing things. Water unites us in a system at tion, unjust pricing, and politics all have second most populace state in the nation, demands for it will continue to grow as a level perceptible to the senses. Our contributed to convert available fresh is running low on water. minds are streams, we say. We talk about water—a common good in creation—into By 2060, the population is expected to a commodity, and even into a threat to increase demands by 27%, while water (Please See WATER/21) Page 12 MARCH 2011 The Angelus The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 13 Art of Devotion

ODESSA -- An exhibit featur- and mirrors from Mexican altars ing artifacts of Latin Baroque art in the 18th and 19th centuries. forms that demonstrate the per- One painting is of Mater vasive influence of the Spanish Dolorosa, or Our Mother of conquerors on the religious Sorrows, seen at right flanked imagery that found its way into by two recreations of the Our the churches and homes of the Lady of Guadalupe. Americas from the 18th-21st The retablos depicts Mary centuries is on display through looking mournfully as she con- April 3 at the Ellen Noel Art templates the suffering of her Museum in Odessa. son, a popular subject in both The exhibit, on loan from the sculpture and painting during San Angelo Museum of Fine the Middle Ages. Arts, includes retablos, santos, Admission is free. The gallery, crucifixes and altar pieces as located at 4909 E. University well as a number of renderings Blvd., is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., of Jesus, Our Lady of Tuesday-Saturday and 2-5 p.m. Guadalupe, and the saints. Sunday. The exhibit is on dis- Over 70 artifacts are on dis- play in two galleries and comes play. Chosen for its historic and complete with family guides and educational value and artistic projects for children to com- merit, the exhibit features plete. plaques, candlesticks, pedestals

Opposite page, far left, a wooden sculpture of an unknown saint; at bottom left, the French oil on canvas, “Death of St. Joseph.”

This page, top, sculptures of three men believe dto be clergy members; middle right, a retablo (painting on wood) of “Mary with Christ Child and Joseph with Christ Child.” Page 14 MARCH 2011 The Angelus Lent Lenten sacrifice: Time to give up plastic bags or incandescent bulbs? By Nancy Frazier O'Brien he shared "the growing concern caused by Jesus today." Catholic News Service Actions for L ten economic and political resistance to com- The program's first week focuses on bating the degradation of the environ- "Christian simplicity" and offers these WASHINGTON -- As Lent begins with SACRIFICIAL STEPS TO SAAVVVE THE PLANET ment." tips as a starting point: Ash Wednesday March 9, Dan Misleh But he also said that the devastation of -- Use cloth shopping bags instead of wants to remind Catholics that it is not Use cloth shopping bags instead the world's forests, the spread of its paper or plastic to reduce the estimated just about giving up chocolate or ice of plastic or paper deserts and the pollution of its water can- 380 billion plastic bags distributed in the cream for 40 days. not be reversed without moral education United States each year, according to the Instead, the executive director of the and changed lifestyles. Environmental Protection Agency. Catholic Coalition on Climate Change Replace incandescent light bulbs As a next step in that educational -- Replace incandescent light bulbs with would like to see Catholic families and wwithith compact flfluorescentsuor process, 24 newly trained "Catholic cli- compact fluorescent bulbs. The U.S. individuals make some permanent sacrifi- mate ambassadors" will begin making Department of Energy says that if each cial changes that will also contribute to a presentations to parishes or schools this U.S. household replaced just one bulb, it more sustainable and more just world. spring, especially about "the need for soli- would save enough energy to light 3 mil- Replace disposable cups with "The whole issue of climate change is refillable mugs darity with the poor, who are the ones lion homes for a year and prevent 9 bil- about consumption and lifestyle," said most impacted by climate change," lion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions Misleh of the changes the Washington- Misleh said. each year. based coalition would like to see imple- Among the other resources available to -- Give up disposable paper products such mented far beyond the Lenten period. Caulk andand seal winwindowsd and doors raise awareness about the need for global as napkins and paper towels. "Lent is the perfect time to examine our to sa ve e ne rgy solidarity are the Lent 4.5 faith-formation -- Use a refillable mug instead of dispos- lifestyles," he added. Even giving up a program developed by the Passionist able cups. One coffee drinker using dis- food item like chocolate or ice cream Earth & Spirit Center in Louisville, Ky., posable cups can generate 22 pounds of "reminds us that we do need to live more and Catholic Relief Services' Operation waste in a year. within our means, more in touch with Keep your car’s tires fully inflated Rice Bowl. "Develop a sense of moderation and people who don't have any of these Lent 4.5, a seven-week program, gets sharing," the Lent 4.5 website advises. things," Misleh said. its name from the fact that if the world "Discover the joy that comes from con- The coalition -- which includes Catholic were divided equally among all its resi- tentment, sensing that you have enough. organizations representing the U.S. bish- Avoid buying bottled water dents, each would receive 4.5 acres of And hold in your heart those people who ops, health care providers, teachers, men land from which to derive all of his or her don't have enough -- enough food, enough food, energy, clothing, housing and "gad- water, enough of basic life necessities." and women religious and a wide range of ©2011 CNS others -- is promoting the St. Francis gets." Operation Rice Bowl, now in its 36th Pledge to Care for Creation and the Poor, Pope Benedict XVI -- dubbed the "But it takes 22.3 acres to maintain the year, allows even the youngest family through which individuals, families and "green pope" for his support of environ- average American lifestyle," the pro- member to feel a certain solidarity with institutions promise to pray and learn mental initiatives at the Vatican -- has gram's website notes. "There is a new the hungry of the world. about environmental issues, assess their been critical of what he sees as a lack of way of observing Lent that helps us care The program encourages families or own contributions to climate change, act worldwide commitment to mitigating cli- for God's creation by taking steps toward parish groups to plan at least one simple, to change their choices and advocate mate change. using only our fair share of its resources. meatless meal each week and donate the Catholic principles and priorities on cli- In a January 2010 address, he told Moving in the direction of 4.5 is essential mate change. diplomats accredited to the Vatican that for anyone walking in the footsteps of (Please See LENT/20) Pope Benedict says Lent a good time to renounce selfishness By Cindy Wooden dent of the Pontifical Council Cor Unum, to strengthen the commitment to following the woman, desire the "water" of eternal Catholic News Service which promotes Catholic charitable giving, Christ originally made at baptism. life, he said. Only the water offered by told reporters, "Intense misery leads to "The fact that in most cases baptism is Jesus "can irrigate the deserts of our rest- VATICAN CITY -- Lent is a time for economic and political instability, creating received in infancy highlights how it is a less and unsatisfied soul until it 'finds rest self-examination and to let go of all traces a vacuum for conflict and unrest that pro- gift of God: No one earns eternal life in God,'" as St. Augustine said. of selfishness, which is the root of vio- duce a vicious circle of deepening hard- through their own efforts," the pope said. The Gospel account of Jesus healing the lence, Pope Benedict XVI said. ship, especially for the most vulnerable." In his message, the pope took the year's man born blind "is a sign that Christ wants "The greed of possession leads to vio- The cardinal said the pope's message Lenten Sunday Gospels and used them to not only to give us sight, but also to open lence, exploitation and death," which is underscores the fact that "the encounter draw lessons he said would be helpful in our interior vision so that our faith may why during Lent the church encourages with Christ in his word and the sacraments making the Lenten journey toward become ever deeper and we may recognize almsgiving, "which is the capacity to manifests itself in concrete works of Christian conversion. him as our only savior," the pope said. share," the pope said in his annual message mercy." The Gospel account of Jesus' victory The story of the raising of Lazarus, read for Lent. The theme of the pope's message was over temptation in the desert "is an invita- on the fifth Sunday of Lent, reminds The text of the pope's message for Lent taken from the Letter to the Colossians: tion to become aware of our own fragility Christians that their destiny is eternal life 2011, which begins March 9 for Latin-rite "You were buried with him in baptism, in in order to accept the grace that frees from with God, who "created men and women Catholics, was released at a Vatican news which you were also raised with him." sin and infuses new strength," he said. for resurrection and life," he said. conference Feb. 22. Pope Benedict said Lent is a special time The story of Jesus meeting the woman at Guinean Cardinal Robert Sarah, presi- for people either to prepare for baptism or the well is a reminder that all people, like (Please See SELFISHNESS/21) The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 15 Our Faith Speaking of God’s choir of angels By Father John Dietzen angels exercise significant roles in decisive assemblies of God. The former, for exam- Catholic News Service events, such as the Annunciation and ple, guard the gates of Eden after Adam and Resurrection. Eve's fall (Gen 3:24) and provide a throne Q. I have read of different types or kinds The theory that there are nine "choirs" of for the Lord (Is 37:16). of angels -- principalities, powers, virtues, angels was raised by various theologians in Archangels are sometimes called princes dominations, thrones, cherubim and the fourth century. Five were spiritual forces of the angels because of their particularly seraphim. Where did mentioned by St. Paul: authorities (virtues), prominent missions in the Scriptures. The all these types origi- dominions, thrones, powers, and principali- word itself occurs only twice in the Bible. nate, or how was it ties (see Eph 1:21 and Col 1:16). Others 1 Thessalonians (4:16) tells us that an determined that there named in the Bible are angels, archangels, archangel will announce the coming of are all these various cherubim and seraphim. They number Christ; the letter of Jude (9) quotes a pas- kinds of angels? Is allegedly at least in the tens of thousands. sage from the apocryphal "Assumption of Our Holy Father’s there an order of rank The real story of angels, however, is not Moses," calling Michael an archangel. Monthly Intentions among the different that neat. It is not clear, first of all, that St. Many angelic names have arisen in popu- types? (Ohio) Paul believed or intended to teach that these lar belief and devotion through the cen- 2011 Dietzen groups of angels were anything like the turies, especially the Archangel Uriel, who A. Angels (from the Greek "angelos," classes or choirs as we might view them. is mentioned in several early noncanonical which means messenger) are generally por- Heretical teachers of the time, as well as Christian writings. Only Michael, Raphael MARCH trayed in Scripture and Jewish and Christian Jewish literature and other ancient mytholo- and Gabriel are named in Scripture, howev- tradition as heavenly beings who bring gies, spoke of similar angelic orders, some er, and are the only names of angels allowed General Intention: That the announcements from God to human beings of them not very benign, which were for use in Catholic liturgy. nations of Latin America may walk in or act in God's name. believed to influence human actions and (A free brochure on ecumenism, including fidelity to the Gospel and be bounti- As the Jewish awareness of God's tran- destinies. questions on intercommunion and other ful in social justice and peace. scendence and holiness developed in the In both of these passages, St. Paul is ways of sharing worship, is available by Missionary Intention: That the Old Testament, angels appear more and insisting on one important point: No spiritu- sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope Holy Spirit may give light and more often as intermediaries between God al power, whatever name you give it or how to Father John Dietzen, Box 3315, Peoria, strength to the Christian communi- and humans. exalted it may be, can remotely compare to IL 61612.) ties and the faithful who are perse- By New Testament times, they became the dignity and majesty of the risen Jesus, cuted or discriminated against more evident, and are mentioned often in through whom and for whom all creation (Questions may be sent to Father Dietzen because of the Gospel. the Gospels and other Christian writings exists. at the same address, or e-mail: after Jesus. In fact, the voice of the Father is Cherubs and seraphs exercise a variety of [email protected].) APRIL heard rarely in the New Testament, while functions on earth and in the heavenly General Intention: That the Church may offer new generations, Nifty unofficial words on their way to officialdom through the believable proclamation By Dan Morris endorsement, were "pewstop" (a person ple who say they are Catholic, but rarely if of the Gospel, ever-new reasons of Catholic News Service who roots at the end of a pew, forcing ever darken the door of a church?" life and hope. other worshipers to climb over him or her), "There has to be something that doesn't Missionary Intention: That mis- It is that time of year again when the "celibiguous" (being ambiguous about sound as brutal as 'apostates,' doesn't sionaries, with the proclamation of Roadkill Theological Roundtable accepts optional celibacy) and "Latintots" (young there?" I asked. the Gospel and their witness of life, nominations for new Catholic words. Catholics with a keen interest in traditional "How about 'Catholites'?" smiled Bud. may bring Christ to all those who do As you no doubt recall, devotions and the use of Latin in the litur- "Maybe 'roamin' Catholics'?" offered not yet know Him. last year some of the gy and music). Marilyn. leading new Catholic A good one was "Benelog," but Pope "'Stray cats?'" I tried. Daily Offering Prayer words earning the RTR Benedict XVI has not launched a blog site We all agree that the intersection of Jesus, through the Immaculate endorsement included yet. Catholicism and the Internet has to be the Heart of Mary I offer you my "homilator" (a priest or Marilyn, who heads up the RTR Catholic source of new terms. prayers, works, joys and sufferings deacon whose homilies Lexicon and Tall Tale Telling Committee, "What about the wild theological ram- of this day in union with the Holy are interminably long and wondered out loud at the last meeting if the blings you find out there in the Internet?" Sacrifice of the Mass throughout deadly), "homildinger" (a group should suggest ideas or categories asked Bud. the world. I offer them for all the homily appealing for for words that might be handy. Marilyn winced. "'Hotgasology' or intentions of Your Sacred Heart: Morris financial support) and "Think about it," she said. "What would maybe 'spoutology?'" the salvation of souls, reparation "homilnodder" (a person whose head be a good word for Catholics who volun- "You like 'crapology' or 'meenyminy- for sin and the reunion of all repeatedly snaps up and drops down as he teer for something, then don't show up?" moetics'?" Christians. I offer them for the or she tries to stay awake during a ser- "'Noshowites' sure pops to mind," said In unsion: "No!" intentions of our bishops and of all mon). her husband, Bud. One wonderful group that could benefit Apostles of Prayer, and in particu- Used together in a sentence: "The homi- Other suggestions included "volunpoop- from a new word or two are the modest lar for those recommended by our lator's homildinger created a sea of homiln- ers," "fibishioners," "dupliciteers" and Catholics who are so rock-solid in their Holy Father this month. odders." "prevaricatholics." Receiving high marks, but not full "OK," continued Bud, "what about peo- (Please See DAN/23) Page 16 MARCH 2011 The Angelus JUST 4 KIDS Jesus shows his followers examples of God’s love

By Joe Sarnicola

Jesus spoke to the crowd of people that had gathered to hear him preach: "No one can serve two masters. He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon." After making that statement, Jesus decided to tell the peo- ple how much God loves them, and how he demonstrates that love to them: "Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat [or drink], or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing?" READ MORE ABOUT IT was arrested for refusing to follow the laws of Matthew 6-7 the Church of England and then exiled to Jesus used an example from nature to show how God Flanders, away from his wife, where he died in cares for everything he made, especially for the people he Q&A 1594. created: "Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or Anne, as the head of a house dedicated to 1. What did Jesus say about the birds in the helping clergy members who were in hiding, reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly sky? helped Catholics escape persecution. She was Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? 2. What did Jesus say we should seek first? later arrested for her work and brought to trial. Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your Although the evidence was weak, Anne was BIBLE ACCENT found guilty and sentenced to death. life-span?" She was canonized as one of the Forty Jesus gave the people another example from nature and Jesus said, "You cannot serve both God and Martyrs of England and Wales. We honor her its beauty to make a comparison to their need for good mammon." Feb. 27. clothing: "Why are you anxious about clothes? Learn from But who, or what, is "mammon"? From the context, it sounds as if mammon BIBLE TRIVIA the way the wild flowers grow. They do not work or spin. But were a person or a false god, but mammon can I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was be understood to mean greed, especially to the What does the word "Gospel" mean? clothed like one of them. If God so clothes the grass of the extent that money or possessions are the most Answer: "Good news." important things to greedy people. Mammon field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomor- can also mean wealth that was acquired PUZZLE row, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little through dishonesty or by hurting others. faith?" One of the most important lessons that Jesus Using the numbered clues, fill in the missing tried to teach was that we should love one letters to form an important word. What is the Jesus knew that the people worried about whether they another. The message about God and mammon extra word that these missing letters spell? would have enough money for clothing and food and to care is similar to that one. Our hearts should be on for their children and maintain their homes. So he said to the things of God that are beautiful and eternal, 1. A__kNoah's boat them, "So do not worry and say, 'What are we to eat?' or and not on the things of the earth that are tem- 2. Sa__ntHoly person porary and can be spoiled. 3. __odOur Father 'What are we to drink?' or 'What are we to wear?' All these 4. Matt__ew Gospel writer things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that SPOTLIGHT ON SAINTS: 5. __ruthHonesty you need them all. But seek first the kingdom [of God] and St. Anne Line 6. Ez__kielOld Testament prophet 7. Zi__nHoly mountain his righteousness, and all these things will be given you Anne Line (1567-1601) was disinherited by 8. Pa__lFamous missionary besides. Do not worry about tomorrow; tomorrow will take her father, a Protestant, after she and her broth- 9. __aulIsrael's first king care of itself. Sufficient for a day is its own evil." er converted to Catholicism. Anne married Extra word: ______Roger Line, who had also converted, but he The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 17 Family Conversion: More a series of ‘aha’s’ than blinding light May 11, 1969. I remember thinking on a number of occasions through as a 9-year-old boy being immersed in baptismal waters, The date has stayed with me now for over 40 years. my adult formation: So, where’s the beef? but it does not end there. In fact it likely never ends. Birthday? I wish. No, May 11, 1969 was the date that, as And then along moseys January 25, 2011: The Small conversions could be anything. A nugget of wis- a 9-year-old, I was baptized at First Baptist Church in Conversion of St. Paul. Paul had one of those big fire- dom shared by someone at a small Christian group Irving. It is a rite of passage as a Baptist work moments when he was converted. A blinding light meeting. A kiss by your wife on a day you’re not feeling kid, something most all of us looked to on the road to Damascus. Christ came to him in a vision, well. A man who lets you go first in traffic or offers you with great anticipation and excitement. reproached him for his persecutions and converted him his place in line at the grocery store. Almost as common, I remember from to the faith. Right there on the spot. Aha moments, I think they’ve been called. those kid days, was the act of rededicat- Lucky St. Paul. There was no doubt for him. One day My wife was ill recently with a bad flu that lasted ing yourself to the faith, needed after an he hated Christians. The next day he was one. I guess if almost a week. One night when she was at her worst, I almost certain downfall, and emotional Jesus Christ came to me in a vision I’d hurry on over to was sitting out on the driveway grilling burgers for my return to the flock with the promise to the believing side no questions asked myself. son and me. It was dark. A car pulled up. Odd, I thought. yourself that you will do better this time. But for 99 percent of us, I dare say, it doesn’t happen Wonder what this person is going to do? The person At least that’s my recollection. There’s Patterson that way. The conversion process does not come com- finally got out of the car. The first thing I noticed was certainly nothing wrong with this practice for those who plete with a playing of Handel’s “Messiah” or she was wearing a full habit. Meekly, almost apologeti- grow up in this tradition. Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” or even a Sousa march. cally, the Filipino sister from Our Lady of Guadalupe Yet I remember thinking then, and now, “OK ... so, At least not externally. You may hear those things inside, approached me and asked me for directions. I told her I what’s next?” but probably not. would go inside to get my neighborhood directory, and I We are told as youngsters that in order to make it from As the reading in the “Word Among Us” said on the would welcome her in but my wife was very sick. this life to the next, we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord Conversion of St. Paul, the spiritual transformation I came out and gave her the directions to the house and Savior. When you’re a kid going through those steps process does not just occur with the blaring of trumpets. she needed. Sister Isabelita thanked me, and told me she and the entire conversion, you can think: OK, I did it, Life, the devotion said, “is made up of a series of small and the other sisters would pray for my wife. where’s the big explosion? The bright shining lights? conversions.” A little one here, one over there, another Aha. The fireworks? Is there not supposed to be trumpets and one that you might not have seen coming. Life is a series of small conversions. Little ahas. choirs of angels today and every day hereafter -- until Aha. Recognize them. They just may be part of your own the hereafter? Now I get it. personal roadmap to salvation. That line of thinking doesn’t necessarily stop with age. We spend our entire life getting it. Conversion may start Jimmy Patterson is editor of the West Texas Angelus.

Your Family How pigeonholes help (and hinder) a family By Bill and Monica Dodds horrified to discover months and months It probably doesn't surprise you that, Catholic News Service of overdue parish-related bills that had since this is about parenting, the issue is been stuffed in drawers all over the recto- more complicated than that. Family Years ago, we knew a ry. pigeonholing can also make it tough for a pastor who had been It seemed that "parish finances" fell child to choose something that's good sim- assigned to a one-priest under the general category of "mathemat- ply because "our family" doesn't see it as parish in a one-horse ics," and"the Murphys have always been good or as something worth pursuing. town. We'll call him bad at mathematics." That can be the case for the teenager Father Murphy. Most of us think of pigeonholing as (from a family of teachers) who is think- One time, when the applying to only one little bird. But it can ing about getting a business degree or the three of us were talking be a whole coop that's being taught "this is young person (from a family of business about being in grade what our flock does -- and doesn't -- do." people) who is leaning toward becoming a school way back when, As is so often the case, that's good teacher. he recalled, "I would bring Bill and Monica news/bad news for moms and dads. We like to think that the apple doesn't home my report card, and Dodds Good news: With some positive pigeon- fall very far from the tree but, my, how it my parents would care about my grades in holing, your children can grow up with can roll.And sometimes it's nudged more English, but it never mattered how poorly self-confidence and a sense of generosity. than a few times by the Holy Spirit to ANSWERS I did in arithmetic. They'd just say, 'The They can practically absorb an apprecia- make sure it gets to the right spot: the right Murphys have always been bad at mathe- tion for education, a respect for elders and career, the right vocation. 1. Ark matics,' and that was that." on and on. On the Web: A Little Fun with Numbers 2. Saint And that, it seemed, was a message that And, bad news: Through negative And speaking of arithmetic, this site has 3. God stuck with him for the rest of his life. pigeonholing, they can inherit parents' a lot of entertaining (and -- shhh! -- educa- 4. Matthew prejudices, shortcomings and blind spots. tional) mathematics-related items for 5. Truth When he was reassigned and left that 6. Ezekiel small town, the parishioners missed the They can end up accepting the good, or youngsters. Go to: coolmath4kids.com. 7.Zion wonderful homilies he gave each Sunday. the bad, simply because the spoken or Bill and Monica Dodds are the founders 8. Paul And, we later learned, when the new pas- unspoken message has been, "This is what of the Friends of St. John the Caregiver 9. Saul. tor came onboard, his fellow priest was the (insert your family name here) do." and editors of My Daily Visitor magazine. Extra word: Righteous. Page 18 MARCH 2011 The Angelus Culture Oscar winner says film 'The Grace Card' shows way to defeat racism By Denis Grasska small strip of paper, which he signed with Catholic News Service Louis Gossett Jr., right, in his name: "I promise to pray for you every ‘The Grace Card,” an day, ask your forgiveness, grant you the SAN DIEGO — Actor Louis Gossett Jr. unabashedly Christian film. same, and be your friend always." is doing his part to cure the "cancer" of The concept behind this "grace card" racism. CNS Photo/ ultimately touches the lives of McDonald "Racism is a cancer, and we have to get and Wright in unforeseen ways. it out of our systems," the 74-year-old told Gossett has had a distinguished career as The Southern Cross, newspaper of the San an actor, winning an Emmy for his per- Diego Diocese, in a phone interview. "We formance as Fiddler in the epic miniseries have it in our systems even when we don't "Roots" (1977), as well as an Academy know we have it, and (we have to) do Award for his portrayal of drill instructor some self-examination and get better, Sgt. Emil Foley in 1982's "An Officer and especially (because) our children are a Gentleman." These days, he said, his pri- watching." mary motivation in life is his desire to Gossett hopes his new film, "The Grace impart important messages to the next Card," will provide viewers with an oppor- generation. tunity to look inside themselves and per- For Gossett, the message of "The Grace haps reevaluate some of their perceptions. Card" dovetails nicely with the mission of The unabashedly Christian film, released the Eracism Foundation Inc., a nonprofit in theaters Feb. 25, is the story of two Wright is struggling with his vocation, ter, who listens to the young pastor/police- organization he founded in January 2006. police officers -- one white, one black -- uncertain whether God is calling him to man's concerns and imparts some wisdom. According to its website, www.eracism- who overcome a strong mutual dislike and continue with the police force or devote The film's title comes from a story that foundation.org, the foundation's mission is ultimately become friends. himself to full-time ministry. As a Gossett's character tells about the friend- "to eradicate the systematic impacts of all Bill 'Mac' McDonald (Michael Joiner), a Christian minister, he is especially trou- ship between his own grandfather, Wendle forms of racism by providing programs white officer with the Memphis Police bled by his inability to respond with love P. Wright, and a wealthy cotton farmer. that foster cultural diversity, historical Department, is an embittered man with a to McDonald's hatred. Before the U.S. Civil War ended, the enrichment, education and antiviolence dysfunctional family. For 17 years, he has "They really don't like one another, and farmer freed his slaves and asked for their initiatives." been consumed by anger over the death of they have to ... work together, and the mir- forgiveness, not only for himself but for all Over the years, Gossett said, he has his son, who was hit by a car during a acle happens," Gossett said, summarizing slave owners, even the unrepentant ones. learned that "you don't directly combat police pursuit of an African-American the plot without giving away specific He also offered each of his former slaves a racism. You just change the thinking and drug dealer. Over the years, his unchecked details. "The miracle comes with a chang- well-paying job and 10 acres of land. the lifestyle, so it doesn't live so long." anger has metastasized into full-blown ing of attitudes, and slowly but surely, they Years later, the same farmer taught "We've come a long way, and we have a racism. are almost conditioned to rely on one Wendle to read and, on his eighth birthday, long way to go," he said, reflecting on the McDonald's new African-American part- another because of certain things that hap- gave him the Bible that inspired him to current state of race relations in America. ner, Sam Wright (Michael Higgenbottom), pen. ... That's a gift of grace." become a preacher. But an end to racism "could happen is a man with two occupations. In addition In "The Grace Card," Gossett plays In response to the farmer's kindness, overnight" if people -- after the manner of to being a police officer, he also is a minis- Wright's grandfather George, also a minis- Wendle wrote the following message on a the film's characters -- choose to "play the ter with the Church of the Nazarene. grace card." Authors focus on food-scripture link, mealtime prayers in new books One book stretches food-Scripture link; another offers allels pertaining to golf, baseball and football. The prayers at meals "And God Said, 'Let's Eat': Amusing author's purpose in this book is to grow closer to God and Thought-Provoking Parallels Between the Bible and Food" by Gary Graf. ACTA Publications (Chicago, 2010). by rejoicing "in the learning that comes through the 238 pp., $14.95. "These Thy Gifts: A Collection of Simple Bible's love for food." Meal Prayers" by Mark G. Boyer. ACTA Publications The book establishes the connection between eating (Chicago, 2010). 192 pp., $12.95. and the Bible through familiar passages mentioning nourishment. Graf then discusses all the possibilities Reviewed by Sister Mona Castelazo of a specific food and suggests insights for life found CSJ Catholic News Service in the biblical text. A full 20 pages are devoted to list- ing all the types of certain foods. The author, for Both "And God Said, 'Let's Eat,'" by Gary Graf and example, lists, in sentence form, every kind of fruit, "These Thy Gifts" by Father Mark Boyer attempt to vegetable, seafood and meat found in the famous increase our gratitude to God for food, meals and - Pike Place Market in Graf's hometown, Seattle. table celebrations. Graf's book deals with scriptural In subsequent chapters, he lists, among other passages related to food, whereas Father Boyer's pro- things, all the known types of apples, breads, mus- vides appropriate meal prayers throughout the year. tards and cuts of beef possible. In addition to listing Graf's work is the fourth in a series of "God Said..." foods, the book contains 40 pages of the full texts of titles, the previous three having shown scriptural par- (Please See BOOKS/21) The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 19 The Adult Catechism USCCB Christian discourse: Movie Speaking the truth in love Ratings By Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl Within this family, each person must ensure Archbishop of Washington that the dialogue proceeds in a manner which not only achieves the ends desired but Someone once described a "gossip" as a also recognizes everyone's rights. It would person who will never tell a lie if a half- be a true tragedy to accept as a principle of truth will do as much harm. When we listen discourse that the end justifies the means so to news accounts or that "winning" would validate any destruc- read what is presented tive behavior or speech. While each person in the print and elec- engaged in discourse is understandably con- NEW YORK (CNS) -- Here is a list of recent K tronic media, we are cerned about his or her point of view, the films that Catholic News Service has rated on The King's Speech, A-III (R) too often reminded that rights of others, including the claims of truth the basis of moral suitability. The first symbol after each title is the L spin, selecting only itself, cannot be forgotten. At no time is the Catholic News Service classification. The sec- Life as We Know It, L (PG-13) some of the facts, high- spiritual violence of falsehood an acceptable ond symbol is the rating of the Motion Picture Little Fockers, L (PG-13) lighting only parts of component of Christian discourse. Association of America. Love and Other Drugs, O (R) the picture, has The Catechism of the Catholic Church CNS classifications: A-I -- general patronage; replaced an effort to (2478) quotes Saint Ignatius of Loyola and A-II -- adults and adolescents; A-III -- adults; L - M Wuerl - limited adult audience, films whose problem- The Mechanic, O (R) present the facts - the full his spiritual exercises when speaking about atic content many adults would find troubling; O Megamind, A-II (PG) story. We all know the tragic results of gos- Christian discourse: "Every good Christian -- morally offensive. Morning Glory, A-III (PG-13) sip against which there is little or no ought to be more ready to give a favorable MPAA ratings: G -- general audiences. All My Soul to Take, O (R) defense. In an age of blogs, even the wildest interpretation to another's statement than to ages admitted; PG -- parental guidance sug- accusations can quickly become "fact." condemn it. But if he cannot do so, let him gested. Some material may not be suitable for N children; PG-13 -- parents strongly cautioned. The Next Three Days, A-III (PG-13) Gossip is like an insidious infection that ask how the other understands it. And if the Some material may be inappropriate for chil- No Strings Attached, O (R) spreads sickness throughout the body. These latter understands it badly, let the former dren under 13; R -- restricted. Under 17 O untruths go unchallenged because the per- correct him with love." requires accompanying parent or adult Oceans, A-I (G) sons who are the object of the discussion are We Catholics need regularly to reflect on guardian; NC-17 -- no one 17 and under admit- 127 Hours, A-III (R) usually not present to defend themselves, how we engage in discourse and how we ted. The Other Guys, O (PG-13) their views or actions. live out our commitment as members of the B P Irresponsible blogs, electronic and print Church, people with profound respect for Black Swan, O (R) Paranormal Activity 2, A-III (R) media stories, and pulpit and podium peo- the truth and a family of faith committed to Burlesque, O (PG-13) Piranha 3D, O (R) ple-bashing rhetoric can be likened to many expressing our thoughts, opinions and posi- tions always in love. We must also consider C R forms of anonymous violence. Spin and The Calling, A-II (no rating) The Rite, A-III (PG-13) extremist language should not be embraced how one responds to decisions made for the The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the as the best this country is capable of achiev- good of the Church with which a person Dawn Treader, A-II (PG) S ing. Selecting only some facts, choosing may disagree. Country Strong, A-III (PG-13) Saw 3D, O (R) inflammatory words, spinning the story, are Even while there may be disagreements Season of the Witch, O (PG-13) within the ecclesial community on policies D Skyline, A-III (PG-13) activities that seem much more directed to Despicable Me, A-I (PG) The Social Network, A-III (PG-13) achieving someone's political purpose rather and procedures, there is a presupposition Devil, A-III (PG-13) The Switch, O (PG-13) than reporting events. We have all seen that we are all one in our faith. One of the The Dilemma, L (PG-13) examples of this. One side in a discussion is reasons why we should find it easy as a Due Date, O (R) T described as "an inquiring mind that simply Church to arrive at consensus is because it is Tales From Earthsea, A-II (PG-13) E Tangled, A-I (PG) wants to know" and the other side is depict- Christ who calls us together in the first Easy A, O (PG-13) The Tourist, A-III (PG-13) ed as "lashing out in response." place. Even if we do disagree on some par- The Town, O (R) We need to look at how we engage in dis- ticular practical issue, we must always do so F Tron: Legacy, A-II (PG) course and how we live out our commit- in love. Faster, O (R) True Grit, A-III (PG-13) ment to be a people of profound respect for Basic to Christian discourse is the belief The Fighter, L (R) For Colored Girls, O (R) U the truth and our right to express our that truth itself is strong enough to win the Unstoppable, A-III (PG-13) thoughts, opinions and positions - always in day. It rejects the maxim, "the one who yells G love. We who follow Christ must not only the loudest wins." All have a right to voice The Green Hornet, L (PG-13) V speak the truth but must do so in love their opinion but it is the truth that should Gulliver's Travels, O (PG) Vampires Suck, A-III (PG-13) (Ephesians 4:15). It is not enough that we direct the discussion and ultimately prevail. H W know or believe something to be true. We Freedom of speech and respect for others, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1, The Waiting City, L (R) must express that truth in charity with freedom of expression and regard for the A-III (PG-13) The Warrior's Way, O (R) respect for others so that the bonds between truth, should always be woven together. This Hereafter, A-III (PG-13) The Way Back, A-III (PG-13) us can be strengthened in building up the should be true of everyone, whether they How Do You Know, A-III (PG-13) body of Christ. speak from a pulpit, a political platform, or Y J Yogi Bear, A-I (PG) Each of us is a temple of the Holy Spirit. through the electronic and print media and Jackass 3-D, O (R) You Again, A-II (PG) Our Baptism into Christ creates among us other means of social communications. the bonds of a new spiritual family life. Page 20 MARCH 2011 The Angelus JUSTICE (From 1) ambivalence, not only about our own secu- vote came mostly along party lines. ed representatives vote. The START Treaty, which was ratified by rity, but about America’s leadership in a Experts view the bill’s defeat as the last “It is time that our Catholics understand the Senate, 71-26, in December 2010, very dangerous world.” opportunity for Congress to pass any pro- that while our Senators are Republicans, requires Russia and the U.S. to cut in half The DREAM Act, which all bishops in immigration reform until after the 2012 they are also most of the time opposed to the number of nuclear warheads they pos- Texas supported but neither of the state’s elections. Proponents have been trying to where our Church stands on issues,” Miller sess, as well as to reduce the number of senator’s voted to ratify, would provide a push through the DREAM Act for more said. “I think people should know this.” intercontinental ballistic missiles and mis- path to citizenship for illegal immigrants than a decade. Two web sites help communicate how sile launchers. brought to the country as children, if they Fr. Mark Miller, pastor at Odessa’s St. Texas bishops’ stands and how our con- Cornyn called the treaty “another exam- attend college or join the military for two Anthony and St. Joseph, and who is com- gress persons and senators are representing ple, another symptom, of a foreign policy years. mitted to social justice issues, said more them. For more information, visit network- that sends a message of timidity, even The bill was defeated, 55-41, and the light needs to be brought to how our elect- lobby.org and txcatholic.org. HYDE (From 1) to stay in the middle East for now. She can ANTI-GOVERNMRNMEMENT DEMMONSTRAAATTIONSI haavve swept across Noro th Afrrica conduct simple conversations with the “I was there the Sunday morning in the and the Miididdleddle Easast sincencee Januararry inn aan effort to ousst authorritaitarian leaders and Egyptians and says she is hopeful for the improve economicco cooonnnditiotionsonss. square when they were holding the future of Egypt, despite reports of uncer- tainty surrounding who will lead the coun- Christian prayer service and heard the MOROCCOOCCOCCOC Dememommonstrations TUNTTUNISNINISISSIAS A Pressididend t Ziinne al-l Abidine LEBANOLEBL ONN Remmained quietiif aftfterS ununnii chants by both the Christians and the called ffor reforms to re-e-eenergize Ben AAli wass fforrceed outt Jan. 14.4. Muuslimsmsm raalallied agaiaaininsnnsst govereernment try out of the revolution. after KKiiing Mohammemed VI Demonstratorrs ccono tinued to gather leadededersship chaangees. OthOther proteesters Muslims,” Hyde said. “Later I saw the slowed thhheir paceaft af er an initiall airinng grievvaanceancesa ces andnndd demands as focussed on ththe t econnnommyy and supppoort “I’m cautiously hopeful knowing that photographs of the Christians forming a push innn1 191999.1 an iinterim goveernmenm nt took hold. forforEr E gyyptiann ddemondemonsnstrators. government and politics in general are barrier during the Muslims’ five-times-a- bound to be a messy business,” Hyde said. day prayers and the Muslims doing the EGEGYPT Presidennt BAHRAIN PProtests “I think given the determination I saw on Hosni Mubarak fueled by an unuunderlying same things for the Christians during their resigned Feb. 11 reseennttmtment toward the part of so many Egyptian people, that Sunday service.” aftfter 18 days of theheh m momonarchhyy ovveer ththe is a statement in and of itself.” nonn nviolenv t lackkf of socic al programs The chant heard so clearly spoke to the proteests. that otthereer oil-rich Arab Hyde said she never put herself in the nationnns enjoy. ALGERIAA Government LIBYYAA VViiolent clashhes middle of the protests, nor was she ever in unity of those protesters who were relent- lifted stateooof emergency bettwweene opponents of leader less in their pursuit of a peaceful over- afaftfter 19 years andd Moamammar Gadhafi and his fear for her safety, but she said she knew insinsstituuted otherher reforrmms, suppppororters claimeed hundreds YEMENY N PPresideident Ali throw for 18 days in February: “We are of but prootessteerssseek of livvess. AbdullahhSSaaleh,,inp in power real change was on the way when she saw bbroaaderroverhauul. for 32 years, granted one hand; we are both Egyptian.” concessions tottwo ggroups of the force of a line of protesters physically demonstratorrssbut protests Most any journalist that has worked in a cconoonntinued.d push back a line of Egyptian police in newspaper office or a television newsroom ©2011 CNS Tahrir Square. Relatively speaking, she for 30 minutes dreams about working a she almost literally stepped in to. “I don't think the revolution would have said, it wasn’t a monumental moment in story like the Egyptian revolt. For Hyde, “I don’t think the magnitude of it all has been possible without it now. I was skepti- the uprising, but it was when Hyde first 30 minutes was almost literally how long necessarily completely sunk in,” she said. cal about whether the thousands of noticed that that many people coming she was in Cairo before the opportunity of “It still, in many ways, feels like daily life Facebook pledges to attend the first protest together could “gain momentum and do a career began to unfold. in a way. I’ve been lucky to work along- would result in a huge turnout. But the something.” A former student at Midland’s St. Ann’s side some really amazing reporters and I first day proved me wrong, and the She is reluctant to speak on the vio- School, confirmed at the church, and later think I’ve learned a lot from that. In a way Internet shutdown that followed I think lence that broke out in the days following a 2005 graduate of Midland High, Hyde I’m lucky to be able to be in a story like only confirmed that the government saw the resignation of Mubarak that included earned her undergraduate degree at Notre this.” the mobilization through Facebook and the reported sexual assault of CBS reporter Dame and her masters in journalism from Although skeptical at first, Hyde says Twitter as a huge threat.” Laura Logan and called the incidents “spo- Northwestern in 2010. After interning with now she believes there is no denying the The shutdown, she said, likely even radic.” the AP, she began work during the uprising critical role that the Internet and social net- made the uprising stronger and she herself “The Egyptian government came out at compiling stories from the bureau’s Cairo working played in the movement. kept up with the revolution via Twitter. some point and said the revolution was office that were then distributed around the Admittedly not as into Facebook and other Hyde said tweets were the best way to hear instigated by international factors but the world. forms of online communications as others about events unfolding in real time and charges that journalists were instigating Hyde lives on an island in the Nile, in her peer group, Hyde said the events of provided sources for many eventual stories. and propagating information was not true. about a 20-minute walk from Tahrir the past month have made her a “believer Hyde, who speaks Arabic and hopes to Some Egyptians, though, think journalists Square, and is fully aware of the history in the possibilities” of social media. further her language skills, says she plans are Israeli spies.” LENT (From 14) as bulletin announcements, homily suggestions, lesson to the root causes of hunger and economic insecurity. plans for grades one through 12, and downloadable "And turn that restless energy, which often drives us to money saved to CRS, the U.S. bishops' overseas relief placemats and coloring pages. the snack cupboard, into action. Learn about people in and development agency based in Baltimore. "Lent asks us to break old habits and form new ones," need throughout the world and advocate for meaningful Prayer and education also are key components of says a Lenten reflection prepared by CRS for Ash change on their behalf." Operation Rice Bowl. CRS provides free materials that Wednesday. "This Lent, consider giving up eating - - - include stories and recipes from five featured countries -- between meals. Replace it with a fast that physically Editor's Note: For more information about the resources Haiti, Indonesia, Senegal, Honduras and Kenya -- as well calls to mind the deep desire of the poor to find solutions mentioned in this article, contact the Catholic Coalition on Climate Change at catholicclimatecovenant.org; The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 21 BOOKS ROSARY (From 18) appear throughout the book. Graf writes "These Thy Gifts," written by a dioce- that there is no longer a need for san priest from Missouri, provides a (From 11) parables and Bible stories already well prophets since Jesus came to earth. He variety of prayers for grace before meals known to most Christian readers. Fourteen also states that we have "all we need in pertinent to all the liturgical seasons, as knowing more about and praying for the recipes appear in the book, ranging from the form of Scripture to redeem our well as for special occasions. The words giver. flash-fried sage leaves (an appetizer from a souls, and achieve union with our will be familiar to Catholics, since the When I see the girls of all different ages supper club in Seattle) to breaded arti- Father." prayers are based on the psalms, canti- praying with (or wearing) their rosaries, I choke hearts to beef burgundy. Exhortations to reflect on Scripture cles and seasonal texts of the traditional can’t help but smile. Joy fills my soul and Graf's enthusiasm for food is evident, end each chapter. After a discussion of liturgical year cycles. my heart rejoices! I can’t begin to describe but rather than giving the reader rich water, Graf points out that upon being Father Boyer's purpose is to provide how grateful I am for the generosity dis- descriptions or original insights, the served water at a restaurant, we might alternative graces "to open our eyes to played by people thousands of miles away. author offers information gleaned main- reflect on baptism, giving drink to the new ways of thanking God for the food The individuals, especially the confirmation ly from Wikipedia and food websites, thirsty and "the living water that is set before us." The prayers are short and class, who generously sent the rosaries, consisting mostly of definitions and list- Jesus." In another place he offers: "The can be simply read by one person before don’t know these orphans, and many of ings. Also, credible parallels to biblical next time we enjoy prosciutto and figs the family meal begins. them don’t even know me. As the girls material and spiritual insights require or munch on Fig Newtons, we should Sister Mona Castelazo, a Sister of St. clutch their precious rosaries as they pray, I too wide a stretch of the imagination remember how mankind sinned against Joseph of Carondelet, has taught English imagine the different people in Abilene who for many years in Los Angeles. She is the lovingly made the rosaries, decorated the and are tenuous at best. the Father, how God provides, and how author of "Under the Skyflower Tree: Although Graf himself is a Catholic, we must stay in right relationship with Reflections of a Nun-Entity," published by cards that accompanied many of them, and questionable interpretations of belief the Father." iUniverse in 2005. even carefully packed them in the box and shipped them off to a remote village in East Timor. It was a small act of love, but it has SELFISHNESS made a profound impact on these girls! I have learned that a simple need, a small idea, (From 14) us from being available and open to God ness and self-centeredness; almsgiving is and the generosity of strangers can move and our neighbor," Pope Benedict wrote. a reminder of the sharing that should mountains! I want to personally thank each The Lenten process of conversion, he Through fasting, almsgiving and prayer, mark each day of a Christian's life; and of these “angels” for making my dream a said, is designed "to free our hearts every he said, "Lent teaches us how to live the time dedicated to prayer is a reminder reality and ask that your gift will be returned day from the burden of material things, love of Christ in an ever more radical that time belongs to God and his desire is to you 100 times over! from a self-centered relationship with the way." for people to spend eternity with him. Read more about Keelan’s adventures 'world' that impoverishes us and prevents Fasting helps people overcome selfish- http://keelanoconnell.blogspot.com/ WATER (From 11) suffering astonishing losses. While ter- exist on Earth. With water, life exists, condition that supports life and allows restrial habitats and marine habitats have thrives and diversifies: Water provides others to use the water for activities that the population increases. No one denies been given more protection, sadly the life. require high water-quality standards. there is a need to manage and conserve fresh water habitats – lakes, rivers, On October 18, 2002, the nation cele- What happens to the water of one com- water. The second concern is how to go streams, wetlands, etc.- have not been brated the 30th anniversary of the enact- munity affects others and we are bound about this – what plan and method is given enough protection. ment of the Clean Water Act. The goals together by a common need to protect the best. At the heart of this discussion is the World Water Day calls us to a new and objectives of the Clean Water Act waters. availability of underground water and environmental responsibility of how we call for a commitment to the stewardship Protecting and improving the nation’s how, when and by whom should it be care for water and its use as water is of the nation’s water and reflect numer- waters is not a short-term activity but a used? In the present situation, few visible indeed Earth’ lifeblood. Water plays an ous principles of community action and process that requires an ongoing national sites remain for new reservoirs or surface essential role in the web of life and cre- concern. Water is for the use of all and commitment to environmental steward- sources. ation as all of life as we know it depends should be returned to the nation’s ship and a water-ethic vision based on The world’s underwater habitats are on water. Without water, no life could streams, rivers, lakes, and coasts in a sharing and the common good. PRAYER (From 3) simple prayers at an early age. Check out pray for help to emulate it. Perhaps it’s the other accountable for their prayer life, instructions on how to pray the rosary. humility of St. Francis of Assisi, the making sure that prayer has not been 8. Ask your Mother for help. The Blessed 9. Read a good story. Children and patience of St. Monica, or the courageous neglected in the busyness of life. For Virgin Mary, our spiritual mother, unders- adults alike enjoy an inspiring story, and witness of St. Thomas More. married couples a spouse is often this spi- tands our needs and offers profound com- few stories are more compelling than 10. Walk with a spiritual friend. Prayer ritual friend, but God will also put wise fort. One family, gathered around the bed- those of the saints. Whether it’s the little can lead to new thoughts and questions. and holy people in our path when we need side of their dying husband and father, way of Therese of Lisieux or the heroism Who better to share them with than a spi- them. They can be the answer to prayer. found peace and healing through the reci- of Maximilian Kolbe, their stories offer ritual friend? A friend can help us to work tation of the rosary. The rosary is ideal for something for everyone. Consider the par- through the concerns that inevitably arise the family since children can be taught the ticular virtue that a saint demonstrates and in prayer. Good friends will hold each Page 22 MARCH 2011 The Angelus PLAN (From 4) Communications & literature for our Pro-Life Ministry — activities, 1. The Pro-Life Committee throughout information, and events. I strongly remind the year will provide literature to be all the Knights of our diocese to be active- placed in the back of each church ly involved in this Pro-Life Ministry as throughout the diocese. This can be done this is basic to what it means to be a through bulk purchasing of materials and Knight of Columbus, a Knight of Christ. distribution to the deaneries for parish dis- 2. Increase Diocesan support for the tribution. budget of Pro-Life Activities. This could 2. The Bishop and the committee are be done through grants, the assessment or asking priests, deacons, women religious, special donations from parishes, or other individuals and Catholic organizations of groups. the parishes (i.e. Knights of Columbus, ACTS, Catholic Daughters, Social Justice Structure - Prayer and Education Groups, Guadalupanas, Young Adult and 1. The Diocesan Pro-Life Committee Youth Groups, Charismatic Movement, for the Diocese is made up of the three Cursillistas and others) where Planned deanery leaders of Pro-Life activities in Parenthood is located to write on a month- each deanery. In each of the three deaner- ly basis Pro-Life letters to the editor of the ies of the diocese, a Pro-Life newspapers, and Pro-Life columns, and to Deanery Committee is to be formed contact government representatives at a involving at least two representatives from local, state, and national level about legis- each parish of the bigger cities where lation to overcome abortion. Planned Parenthood is located. The 3. The deans are asked to constantly Pastors, encouraged by the dean, will encourage the priests and people of our select the two people from each parish. parishes to more active participation in the 2. The Knights of Columbus, whose Pro-Life Ministry in each of the major first concern is Pro-Life, will have at least cities where Planned Parenthood is locat- two of their members on the Pro-Life ed and to work closely with local Pro-Life Deanery Committees. committees and to encourage priests of 3. The Diocesan Pro-Life Committee the surrounding area to take part in Pro- aided by deanery committees will work Life activities. The Diocesan Pro-Life Tiny coffins line the outside of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi in Santa Fe, with pastors and the Diocesan Youth N.M., Jan. 19. Pro-lifers made a peaceful pilgrimage to the front steps of the state Capitol Committee will form or strengthen Director, SEARCH and other Youth to call for an end to abortion and pray for the new legislative session as well as other Deanery Pro-Life Committees in the cities Groups, to propose ways to involve the agenda items outlined by the New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops. (CNS where Planned Parenthood is located. The youth in this vitally important Pro-Life photo/Leslie M. Radigan, Archdiocese of Santa Fe) committee will ask the pastors to name a Ministry, especially through education and Life Events. rosary or develop other prayers in front of point or contact person in the smaller taking part in prayer services. This can 7. The Diocesan Pro-Life Committee the three Planned Parenthood Clinics. The towns that are in local proximity to the include a session each year on Pro-Life in with the members of the Deanery Pro-Life leaders of the Pro-Life Committee will larger cities who will keep the Pro-Life religious education classes at the Jr. and Committee will be in constant dialogue organize the schedule for these times of Ministry as part of the local pastoral pro- Sr. High Level. and involvement with the Pro-Life prayer for the parishes where these centers gram of each parish and mission. This is 4. The Pro-Life Committee will insure Pregnancy Centers in Midland, San are located. important because the three Planned that the rosary is prayed at least twice a Angelo, and Abilene and invite these cen- 2. The clergy are asked to more actively Parenthood facilities service all of West week in front of each Planned Parenthood ters to share in our Pro-Life plan. All support Pro-Life Activities through Texas, and all priests and pastoral leaders facility. This committee will also prepare members will be pro-active in reaching preaching, teaching, bulletins, pulpit are to be involved. prayers and events to mark the Roe vs out to all women contemplating having an announcements, and conversations with 4. The Pro-Life Committee will create a Wade decision (January 22), the Day of abortion, letting them know that the various parish groups stressing the need to bi-monthly Email Pro-Life Newsletter that the Unborn (March 25), and Respect Life Pregnancy Centers and our parishes are become involved In Pro-Life activities. will contain information on activities and Sunday (First Sunday of October). The ready to offer spiritual, emotional, pas- Pastors will always include Pro-Life latest developments from the USCCB and committee will also organize 40 Days for toral and financial assistance. All women intentions in the Prayers of the Faithful other Pro-Life organizations. Life in front of each Planned Parenthood who had an abortion should know that our each weekend. The Pro-Life leaders of 5. The Pro-Life Committee will send a Center at least once every two years. God through our churches offers forgive- each deanery will have a meeting at least letter two times a year under the Bishop's 5. The Pro-Life Committee supported ness and healing. These women should be twice a year with all the clergy of the and Pro-Life Director's signature to all the by the Pastors will develop Ecumenical invited to be part of the deanery Pro-Life nearby parishes to discuss plans and coop- clergy (priests and deacons) in order to Prayer Services in the cities of Abilene, Committees. eration. keep them focused on Pro-Life issues and Midland, and San Angelo. These could 8. All Pro-Life meetings will begin with 3. The Pro-Life Committee will arrange encourages their participation. occur on a quarterly or semiannual basis prayer and sharing of the Word of God, for a monthly Mass in each deanery for 6. The leaders of the Diocesan Pro-Life by working with the various ministerial invoking the Holy Spirit for guidance. the intention of the unborn. This will Committee, representing the three deaner- alliances and associations. rotate from one parish to another. This ies, will meet at least twice a year in per- 6. The Pro-Life Committee will contin- Clergy will be a weekday Mass or a Sunday son or via teleconference to exchange ue to educate Catholics regarding Pro-Life 1. The clergy - priests and deacons - are Mass. The committee recommends that it ideas and information on issues through bulletin and pulpit asked to participate with the people of our is better to rotate this from parish to parish Pro-Life. announcements, speakers, and other Pro- parishes on a weekly basis in praying the to raise awareness in all communities. -- March 1, 2010 The Angelus MARCH 2011 Page 23 BEATIFICATION (From 1) were touched by his charisma and holiness." The pope vis- "What an awesome gift this is," said the bishop, who ited the United States seven times and in each visit urged worked at the Vatican during the late pope's pontificate as Light Television, said it was no coincidence that he heard Catholics to use their freedom responsibly and to preserve a staff member at the Vatican Congregation for Clergy for the news of the pontiff's beatification while attending a the sacredness and value of human life. four years. meeting in Spain for the upcoming World Youth Day. In an e-mail to Catholic News Service, Massie said the Bishop Ricken said that someone in his previous dio- "A thunderous, sustained, standing ovation followed the "general public already considers John Paul II a saint and cese, Cheyenne, Wyo., told him "what a special blessing it announcement," he said in a Jan. 14 statement. those who saw him, listened to him, prayed with him, was that at my ordination my head was touched by the The priest, national director for World Youth Day 2002 already believed they met a saint -- not a future saint, but hands of a saint," referring to the laying on of hands by the in Toronto, said the date for the beatification, May 1, is someone who, like Mother Teresa, lived out the Gospel consecrator during the ordination rite. also no coincidence. Not only is it Divine Mercy Sunday, message in his everyday life." Tony Melendez, the armless guitarist whose embrace by but it is also the feast of St. Joseph the Worker, known as Michele Dillon, who chairs the department of sociology Pope John Paul electrified an audience during the pope's "May Day" on secular calendars. at the University of New Hampshire in Durham, said she 1987 visit to Los Angeles, said he had always considered "Communists and socialists around the world commem- believes most American Catholics will welcome John Paul his encounters with the pope like meeting “a living saint." orate May Day with marches, speeches and festivals," he II's beatification. said, adding that it was fitting that "the man who was a She described him as the "first cosmopolitan pope for a unique instrument and messenger in bringing down the cosmopolitan age, and his warm, energetic, and telegenic OBISPO Iron Curtain and the deadly reign of communism and god- personality served him well on his many trips to all parts lessness will be declared blessed" that day. of the globe." (Para 3) Father Rosica said the announcement is "the formal con- Dillon remarked that it would "be interesting to see firmation of what many of us always knew as we experi- whether his beatification, at this time of uncertain commit- al necesitado. enced the Holy Father in action throughout his pontificate" ment among the faithful, will reignite a new spark of church El ayuno que hacemos durante la Cuaresma tiene sig- particularly among youths, noting that one of the pope's gifts engagement especially among the generation who as nificado cuando sea concentrado en hacer la voluntad to the church was his establishment of World Youth Day. teenagers turned out in force" for World Youth Day events. de Dios y cuidar del necesitado. De otra manera el Archbishop Dennis M. Schnurr of Cincinnati said that as Detroit Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron said in a state- ayuno pierde su significado aunque tal vez envuelva national executive director of World Youth Day 1993, ment the news of the late pope's beatification "brings joy algún sacrificio. Isaías claramente nos enseña que es which was in Denver, and later as general secretary of the to the whole church" and added, "All of us have our own menos importante a Dios que suframos por Él de lo que U.S. bishops' conference in Washington, he had "the particular fond memories of this great pastor, our beloved aliviemos el sufrimiento de otros. Aunque es bueno opportunity to get to know Pope John Paul II from many father in Christ." hacer sacrificios y penitencia y ayunar durante la vantage points." He said that during Pope John Paul's visit to the United Cuaresma, es más importante que concentremos en "His love for God and God's people was evident in every States, including Detroit in 1987, "he showed us the face como tratamos el uno al otro. Esto es lo que nos cuesta aspect of his life. His confidence in the power of prayer of Christ. As we venerate his memory, he still does us that más, y esto es lo que le complace más a Dios. was inspiring, the archbishop said. "His life was complete- service from the Father's house in heaven." Que estos días de la Cuaresma nos ayuden a capturar ly given over to the will of God. For those who followed Dennis Doyle, University of Dayton religious studies el verdadero significado de penitencia y ayuno en nues- his papacy closely, it was never a question of whether he professor, noted that many U.S. Catholics didn't under- tras vidas, y a dirigirnos a ser más fieles en cumplir la would be beatified but rather when. Santo subito!" stand the pope and wondered how he "could be liberal on voluntad de Dios en nuestras vidas diarias por medio de Tim Massie, the chief public affairs officer and adjunct social issues but yet so conservative on church issues. He demostrar compasión y cuidado por otros al pasar más professor of communication and religious studies at Marist was consistent in a way that was difficult for some people tiempo en oración y leyendo la Palabra de Dios. Por College in Poughkeepsie, N.Y., called the news of Pope in the U.S. to understand." cierto, el centro de la Cuaresma es la reconciliación con John Paul II's upcoming beatification a "morale boost" "But ultimately, he is being beatified because he was nuestro Dios, así que es un tiempo esplendido para hacer especially for Catholics in the United States "where sex loved throughout the world and is recognized iconically as una buena confesión, y estar presente mas seguido para abuse scandals, financial crises and disagreements with a holy person," he added. el ofrecimiento del sacrificio de la Misa, dándonos el church hierarchy have dramatically affected parishes, dio- Bishop David L. Ricken of Green Bay, Wis., who was privilegio de compartir en el mismo sufrimiento, muerte ceses and the faithful in the pews." ordained a bishop by Pope John Paul Jan. 6, 2000, in y resurrección de Cristo Jesús. Because of the pope's extensive travels in the United Rome, said the "benefits of his pontificate have, in many States, he said, "there are literally millions of people who ways, just begun." BISHOP DAN

(From 2) ly teaches us that God cares less fulfilling the will of God in our (From 15) that we suffer for Him than that we daily lives by showing compassion good for the poor and the power- relieve the suffering of others. and care for others as we spend faith, the practice of it and their bedrock support of the less, then God is more open to hear. While it is good to make sacrifices more time in prayer and reading the parish. Another is of youthful Catholics whose energy and To be clear, it is not the pain of and do penance and fasting in Lent, Word of God. Of course, at the faith lives inspire others. giving up that satisfies God, but the it is more important that we focus center of Lent is reconciliation with Yet others might be persons who habitually check out of service given to the needy. on how we treat one another. This our God, so it is a splendid time to Mass early, entertaining typos in the parish bulletin and inter- The fasting that we do in Lent is what usually costs us more, and make a good confession, and to be pretive adjectives for the expressions some cantors make. has meaning when it focuses on this is what pleases God more. present more often for the offering The folks at Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary doing God’s will and caring for the May these days of Lent help us of the sacrifice of the Mass, giving tell us that when words become commonly spoken and needy. Otherwise fasting loses its to capture the true meaning of us the privilege of sharing in the published, they are on the road to being admitted into their meaning even though it may penance and fasting in our lives, very suffering, death and resurrec- dictionary. involve some sacrifice. Isaiah clear- and lead us to be more faithful to tion of Jesus Christ. The RTR has similar criteria. Keep us in the loop! (E-mail Uncle Dan at [email protected]. Page 24 MARCH 2011 The Angelus Dioce-Scenes The West Texas Angelus Official Newspaper of the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas POSTMASTER: Send all address changes to: San Angelo WEST TEXAS ANGELUS P.O. Box 1829 SAN ANGELO, TX 76902-1829 Members of Holy Angels Confirmation Class ______participated in Souper Bowl Sunday, raising $1,201 for the Meals for the Elderly program Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI in San Angelo. At right in photo is Charlyn Publisher Ocker, director of Meals for the Elderly in San Angelo. Jimmy Patterson Director of Communications Editor

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Subscription rate for all others: San Angelo $10 per year Bishop Michael Pfeifer, second from left, is presented THIRD CLASS POSTAGE PAID the annual contribution from the Knights of Columbus AT SAN ANGELO, TEXAS Texas State Council Charities. The amount represents 70 percent of the contributions made to State Council Printed by the Charities by the Brother Knights of the Diocese of San San Angelo Standard Times Angelo. The Bishop has designated these funds to be A Scripps-Howard Company used for Pro-Life, Seminarian Education & Training, and Lay Leaders Support and Development. Submissions: Presenting the check to Bishop Pfeifer is (right to left) Story suggestions, calendar items, Don Piwonka, Diocesan Deputy; Jerry Peters, parish briefs and all other Diocesan Pro-Life Director; and Pablo Florez, District submissions should be emailed to Deputy #178. [email protected]. COPY, PHOTO DEADLINE: Third Friday of every month.

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Letters to the editor are welcome, Pope says Jesus’ death cannot be blamed on Jewish people and should be emailed to VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- In his latest vol- out for vengeance, but for reconciliation, he The work is an extensive reflection on the [email protected]. ume of "Jesus of Nazareth," Pope Benedict said. Gospel texts and on the arguments of Letters to the editor are printed at XVI says the condemnation of Christ had "It means that we all stand in need of the Scripture scholars, in effect offering Pope the discretion of the editor and complex political and religious causes and purifying power of love which is his blood. Benedict's version of "The Passion of the identities of the writer are subject cannot be blamed on the Jewish people as a These words are not a curse, but rather Christ." to verification. Please include whole. redemption, salvation," he said. In Chapter 7, the pope examines the trial of name, address and phone number The pope also said it was a mistake to inter- The pope's treatment of the events of the Jesus before Pontius Pilate, the Roman gover- when submitting letters. pret the words reported in the Gospel, "His Passion form the core of his new book, "Jesus nor in Judea. The pope said Pilate is presented blood be on us and on our children," as a of Nazareth. Holy Week: From the Entrance realistically in the Gospels as a man who blood curse against the Jews. Into Jerusalem to the Resurrection." It was to knew that Jesus posed no real threat to the Those words, spoken by the mob that be officially presented at the Vatican March Roman order, but who had to deal with politi- demanded Jesus' death, need to be read in the 10, but excerpts from three chapters were cal realities -- including pressure from Jesus' light of faith, the pope wrote. They do not cry released March 2. accusers.