Miracle on the Conchos? KC 4316: They came, they cut, West Texas they cleared: in 5 1/2 hours SAN ANGELO -- Fifteen men. retreatants. They fell dead trees 25 trees cut and placed on seven and trimmed living trees along ANGELUS trailers. All in 5 1/2 hours. the Concho River prayer path, all The volunteer Knights of the while protecting the Stations Serving the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas Columbus from Wall’s Council of the Cross located along it. 4316 gathered at Christ the King David Mikulik, owner of Volume XXIX, No. 3 MARCH 2009 Retreat Center in San Angelo to Scherz Landscape Company in ensure the safety of guests and (Please See KC/16) More photos, Pg. 16 Diocesan priest transfers become official Feb. 29 Transfers in the diocese, effective February 9, 2009: • Msgr. Francis Frey, pastor of St. Mary, Odessa, has retired. • Fr. Santiago Udayar, formerly the pastor at Sacred Heart, Coleman, has been assigned pas- tor of St. Mary, Odessa. • Fr. Romanus Akamike, formerly the pastor of St. Charles, Eden has been assigned pastor of Sacred Heart, Coleman and it’s mission Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Winters. • Fr. Joseph Ogbonna, formerly in residence at Stories, viewpoints on St. Mary, Odessa, has been assigned pastoral Lent 2009, Pages 10-11 administrator of St. Charles, Eden and its mis- sions, St. Phillip, Eola and Our Lady of Guadalupe, Millersview. • Fr. Mario Ortiz arrived in the diocese to replace Fr. Leo Eke as Parochial Administrator of St. Ambrose, Wall and its mission, Holy Family, Mereta. • Fr. Leo Eke, temporarily assigned to St. Ambrose, Wall has returned to Nigeria. • Fr. Andrew Okeke arrived in the diocese and is assigned parochial vicar at Sacred Heart, Abilene. • Effective January 12, 2009, Fr. Tom Barley, Dean of the San Angelo Deanery has been tem- porarily appointed to assist Msgr. Maury Voity at

Sacred Heart Cathedral, San Angelo.

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THIS MONTH IN THE ANGELUS Return to Me Working through it with Christ Ash Wednesday begins Bishop David Zubik of the season of Lent, Pittsburgh has called on and one of the the Catholic community to

Readings that we hear face the nation's current

US POSTAGE US PAID NONPROFIT ORG. NONPROFIT in the Mass for that economic crisis together TX ANGELO, SAN

Abilene effort kicks off 44 NO. PERMIT day is from the in Christ. "When I think of Prophet Joel, who the diocese, I think of a On Wednesday, February 25, Abilene area gives us the theme church sharing, reaching pro-life advocates will join together with peo- that should guide us out to serve those who ple of faith and conscience from more than through the Lenten are in need," he wrote in 130 communities nationwide to kick off the season, leading us to the second pastoral letter area’s own version of the groundbreaking the greatest feast of he has issued as head of “40 Days for Life campaign,” Christianity, the resurrection of Christ. his diocese. / Pg. 9 / Pg. 5 / Pg. 2 Page 2 MARCH 2009 The Angelus From the Bishop’s Desk Lent: Return to me with all your hearts; rend your hearts not garments

By Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI Lent is a time to journey into our hearts and guided tion for Easter, in accord with what the Prophet Joel by the light of the Holy Spirit to humbly and truthful- tells us, we are to break open our hearts so that God Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, and one ly admit what might be blocking God’s loving grace may break in. We are with God’s grace called to of the Readings that we hear in the Mass for that day from coming into our hearts. It is a time to reflect on open our hearts and souls in a spirit of repentance and is from the Prophet Joel, who gives us the theme that how we can be better disciples of Christ, especially conversion, so that God may touch them with tender- should guide us through the Lenten season, leading by sharing our lives in service with other people. ness, compassion and forgiveness. us to the greatest feast of Christianity, the resurrec- Lent draws us into the sanctuary of the soul. We go The season of Lent is a time to fast by giving up tion of Christ. The prophet tells us: “Return to me there not alone but guided by our Lord and Savior, uncharity. This is a time to take on a new attitude of Bishop with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and Jesus Christ, who suffered and died to take away our love and compassion by giving up gossiping, giving up Michael D. with mourning; rend your hearts and not your gar- sins, and then to bring us new life in His resurrection. critical attitudes, giving up sarcasm, and giving up Pfeifer, OMI ments.” [Joel 2:12-13] As we journey through these days of Lent in prepara- (Please See BISHOP/18)

DIOCESAN BRIEFS LETTERS FROM THE BISHOP New rosary CD for Appreciation award presented the faithfully departed to Deborah Michalewicz March 22: Annual Catholic Relief Collection

Five parishioners from the San Angelo Diocese The Texas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty My dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, have recorded a very unique Rosary CD for the (TCADP) has bestowed one of its annual Faithful Departed. Deacon Bob Leibrecht from St. Appreciation Awards on West It is important to remember our humanitarian obligations as Catholics. Our Stephens in Midland leads the Rosary, and parish- Texas resident Deborah theme of Jesus in Disguise reminds us that Christ is present in those who suffer - ioners from St. Stephens and St. Ann's (Midland) Michalewicz, in recognition of her and in those who respond compassionately to their needs. The Annual Catholic and St. Thomas, (Midkiff) provide music and medita- leadership in organizing the Relief Services Collection supports important Catholic organizations that carry out tions. “Music for Life” concert in San God's work around the world - providing refuge settlement, HIV/AIDS and interna- Before each Hail Mary, different souls are prayed Angelo in June of 2008. The tional poverty relief, legal aid for poor immigrants, emergency and disaster relief, for who are in need of purification from various sins concert, which was co-sponsored and advocacy for the promotion of global peace and justice. committed during life. Pope John Paul II stated in by the Catholic Diocese of San an Apostolic Letter, "The Rosary is flexible. When Angelo Criminal Justice Ministry In our diocese, The Catholic Relief Services Collection is scheduled for March looking for ways to bring the rosary alive, adapta- and the First United Methodist 22. tions are possible. Why not try it?" This Rosary Church of San Angelo, featured Michalewicz This is the perfect opportunity for us to express our compassion and generosity uses all four mysteries in five decades: 1. The Austin-based singer-songwriter by sharing with our brothers and sisters who have much less than we do. Nativity; 2. The Institution of the Holy Eucharist; 3. and musician Sara Hickman and San Angelo-based Please know that your generosity gives hope to Jesus in Disguise. Please visit The Crucifixion; 4. The Resurrection & Ascension; 5. singer-songwriter Cindy Jordan. Aimed at starting a www.usccb.org/nationalcollections for more information about the collection and the Pentecost & Coronation. dialogue on the death penalty, the concert also fea- essential organizations funded by it. Prayers are supplemented with inspirational back- tured remarks by Father Mark Miller of the Catholic Thank you for your past generosity and let us pray for the success of this effort ground music from Catholic singer and songwriter Churches of South Odessa and Guadalupe and and especially offer prayers for the poor and needy of the world. Julie Carrick. Emma Fabela, who spoke about their son’s murder When this CD is purchased for $10, the money is and the need for forgiveness. Your servant in Christ and Mary, used to have Masses celebrated for the souls in Deborah is the wife of Water Valley cotton farmer Purgatory. So the souls in purgatory are aided not Arnold Michalewicz. She is the coordinator of Most Reverend Michael Pfeifer, OMI only by the Rosary, but by the Holy Mass... the most Religious Education at St. Therese Catholic Church Bishop of San Angelo powerful prayer of all! in Carlsbad, where she also services as Lector and A great gift for families at Lent, Easter, Ordinary Catechist. Time, for Graduates, for Newlyweds, and for mourn- The award was presented in Austin on February ers in times of grief. The CD is available at Trudo's 21 in conjunction with TCADP’s 2009 Annual and Brother Leo's in San Angelo; The Carmelite Conference. Sister Esperanza Razura of Odessa April 10: Collection for Churches in the Holy Land Hermitage Gift Shop in Christoval; St. Stephens, St. accepted the award on Deborah’s behalf. Ann's, La Promesa, and Our Lady of Guadalupe in My dear brothers and sisters: Midland; and Ave Maria in Odessa. Fall Festival Calendar May these days of Lent deepen our appreciation for all that Christ did for us dur- 2009 Cursillo Dates ing that first Lent, giving His life on the cross for our salvation and redemption. Sunday, October 25 -- St. Ann's Parish Festival By way of this letter, I remind you that the annual Good Friday will be taken up April 16-19 -- Women's Spanish, Our Lady of in Sonora, celebrating 80 years. in all of our churches on Friday, April 10, 2009, and this collection goes to support Guadalupe, Midland the works of the Church in the Holy Land. June 18-21 -- Men's Spanish I encourage you to be generous in this collection that is so much needed for the June 25-28 -- Women's English, Christ the King Scheduled Executions ministries and programs of the Church in the Holy Land, which is still filled with Retreat Center San Angelo much violence and division. Along with your generous offering, I ask you to please July 23-26 -- Men's English, Christ the King The Angelus will publish execution dates of Texas offer prayers for peace in the Holy Land and peace throughout the world. Jesus Retreat Center, San Angelo offenders on death row each month so that the faith- gave His life to bring us this peace, so let us all strive to be peacemakers right September 24-27 -- Women's English, St. ful in the Diocese of San Angelo can pray for them. where we live. The following offenders face upcoming execution Thomas, Big Spring Thank you and God's peace. October 15-18 -- Women's Spanish Cursillo, St. dates. Please pray for them: Offender/Scheduled Execution Date: Mary's, San Angelo Your servant in Christ and Mary, October 22-25 -- 2009 Men's English Cursillo, St. James Edward Martinez/March 10 Thomas, Big Spring Luis Salazar/March 11 Anyone needing more information may e-mail cur- Jose Briseno/April 7 Most Reverend Michael Pfeifer, OMI [email protected] or call (432) Michael Rosales/April 15 Bishop of San Angelo 413-6136. Derrick Johnson/April 30 The Angelus MARCH 2009 Page 3 The Visiting Priest From the Editor Many parents experience similar shared sorrows Ask not what By Father John Catoir On the academic level, reading scores managed to produce a rich legacy of Catholic News Service were down substantially, thus reveal- honorable graduates who in turn have ing an intellectual impoverishment become responsible parents and your parish In the 1970s a Senate juvenile delin- that continued to spiral downward. grandparents. quency subcommittee In the subsequent 40 years those sta- What of the Catholic parents who surveyed 750 public tistics have become progressively lament the fact that some of their school districts and worse. By comparison, the Catholic youngsters have fallen away from can do for you reported the following school system, which teaches spiritual their faith? changes: School values, has performed much better. In today's mixed-up world, this is dropouts increased by The nuns, whose vision, intellectual not too surprising. I do not judge By Jimmy Patterson 11 percent, drug and drive and personal commitment to them. I simply advise them not to put alcohol offenses on excellence benefited a whole genera- down themselves or their children. For t seems like half a lifetime ago when my young family school property tion of baby boomers, took a lot of the most part, they did a good job pro- and I were new in town and attended a church where Catoir increased by 37 percent, ribbing over the years from their stu- tecting their children from the perva- ‘Iwe didnt know many people,” a friend of mine told me burglaries of school buildings dents who put them down for their sive drug subculture and so many recently. “We would go and sit and kneel and increased by 11 percent and assaults strict rules and old-fashioned ways. stand and sit again and kneel again and then leave, on teachers increased by 77 percent. Even so, these self-sacrificing women (Please See CATOIR/13) smiling politely at whomever chose to return our friendly glances, and there often didnt seem like there were many. One day one of our children OBITUARY turned up sick and was hospitalized and we were mortified that no one came to visit during the entire stay and we decided we would wash our Patterson hands of that church.” Father Charles P. Vogel My friend said he and his wife sat and whined and moaned and complained about how the church didn’t do MIDLAND - Father Charles P. Vogel became a priest and pastor of St. Kelly recuperated from surgery and anything for them and he said one day they finally decided passed through the door of death on Stephen's Parish in Midland, Texas. eventually, for health reasons, had to once and for all that they were done and wouldn’t be going Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2009. He was the Father Vogel served the Brooklyn retire. Another time came with the back, thanks for nothin’, and so he walked out the door and son of Charles Paul and Katherine parishes of the Transfiguration, Saint untimely death of Fr. John Waldron, didn’t look back. Funny thing is, he said, when they left, (Klein) Vogel, and was born in Leo, and Saint Sylvester. He retired in who was Father Kelly's successor. arms crossed defiantly, no one still seemed to care. Ridgewood, N.Y., on March 14,1917. 1984. Following his retirement, Father Bishop Michael Pfeifer asked Fr. Many years passed and our friends raised a family, attend- He was ordained to the Priesthood for began coming to Midland whenever Vogel to stay for six months till Father ing another parish for much of that time. Ultimately, for the Diocese of Brooklyn, N.Y., on Father Kelly needed extra help or had James P. Bridges could be assigned as whatever reason they said they decided they would again April 27, 1943. One of the Altar boys to be away. Fr. Vogel came to stay for the new pastor of St. Stephen's. Father give their old church a try. serving Father Vogel's First Mass was several months during two despairing Even after praying about it, they were were unsure of their a young man, Robert Kelly, who later times. One long visit came while Fr. (Please See VOGEL/18) decision to return and even more unsure of how they would be received when they walked through the doors after so Del Escritorio del Obispo long away. “We actually thought people had actually missed us and would actually remember the day we left so long ago. Why Vuelvanza a mi de todo corazon -- on earth would they?” he asked. “Truth is no one did remem- ber, which is to speak ill of no one. We had just never given anyone anything to remember.” enluten el corazon y no sus vestidos Church is not about getting. It’s about giving. You can’t go every week and do nothing but sit there and hope to be warmly embraced. It’s not about the church doing for you. Por el Obispo Miguel Pfeifer 2:12-13) nuestro Señor y Salvador, Cristo It’s about people doing for the church. Once you do for the La Cuaresma es un tiempo de Jesús, quien sufrió y murió para church, it is then that the feeling of community, that great big La temporada de Cuaresma viajar dentro nuestros corazones perdonar nuestros pecados, y group-hug feeling, can really be felt to its full extent. comienza con el Miércoles de y guiados por la luz del Espíritu traernos nueva vida por medio de “We realized that it wasn’t the church that wronged us so Ceniza, y una de las lecturas que Santo a humilde y verdadera- Su resurrección. Al pasar estos long ago,” my friend added. “It was us who wronged us. And escuchamos durante la misa de mente admitir lo que impida la días de Cuaresma en preparación us who wronged the church by blaming it.” ese día nos viene del Profeta Joel, gracia amorosa a entrar en nue- para la Pascua, de acuerdo con lo A church will most definitely care about you, take care of quien nos da el tema que ha de stros corazones. Es tiempo de que el Profeta Joel nos dice, you, comfort you, and visit you and your ill family members. guiarnos durante la temporada de reflexionar en como podemos ser hemos de abrir nuestros cora- But it has to know you are there. It’s not practical to sit back and hope you will be fussed over just because you’re you. It Obispo Cuaresma, dirigiéndonos a la mejores discípulos de Cristo, zones para que Dios pueda entrar. Miguel Pfeifer gran fiesta del cristianismo, la especialmente por medio de com- Con la gracia de Dios estamos is only when you reach out and show your parish what you OMI resurrección de Cristo. El profeta partir nuestras vidas en servicio a llamados abrir nuestros corazones can do to glorify God’s kingdom -- and that you’re not just nos dice: “Vuélvanse a mi de otras personas. y almas en espíritu de arrepen- there for yourself -- when the beauty of the church family todo corazón, con ayunos, con La Cuaresma nos atrae 3 timiento y conversión, para que fully comes into that embrace. lagrimas y llanto; enluten su dentro del santuario del alma. No corazón y no sus vestidos.” (Joel vamos allí solos sino guiados por (Mira OBISPO/17) Jimmy Patterson is editor of the West Texas Angelus and a parishioner at St. Ann’s in Midland. Page 4 MARCH 2009 The Angelus DIOCESAN DATES The facts about the Morning After Pill Bishop’s 24 -- SAN ANGELO, Holy Calendar Angels, Confirmation at 6:30 By Bishop Michael Pfeifer (Volume 31, Number 12) on “Truth About tion needs to be provided about the truth p.m. Emergency Contraception”, and “How of emergency contraception—medically, 25 -- MIDLAND, St. Ann – ‘Plan B’ Does Harm to Women”. morally, and spiritually. APRIL Confirmation at 5:30 p.m. One of the most dangerous attacks on 1 -- SAN ANGELO, Christ 26-27 -- SAN ANTONIO, human life in recent years is the promotion These emergency contraceptions often We know from the scientific study of the King Retreat Center – Meeting of Texas Bishops of the so-called “emergency contracep- interfere with an existing pregnancy, and embryology that at the moment of concep- Staff Lenten Retreat -10:00 28 -- COLEMAN, Sacred tion,” also known as “the morning-after they are not safe as many would have us to tion—the joining of sperm and egg—a a.m. Heart – Confirmation at 6:30 pill” or “Plan B.” Recently, the FDA believe. Certainly, they are not safe for the unique set of DNA is formed, and a new 1 -- SAN ANGELO, 12:05 p.m. approved nonprescription sales of this baby, whose life may be ended before he human being is created. Even a zoologist p.m. Lenten Reflections at 29 -- MIDLAND, St. First United Methodist powerful drug to those who are 18 years or or she sees the light of day. Studies show would tell you that this entity is a homo Stephen – Confirmation at older. that there is an increased evidence of tubal sapien, a human being. It is not a tree or a Church 6:30 p.m. 2 -- SAN ANGELO, Many people are not really informed pregnancy that accompanies contraceptive cow, but a person. The newly conceived 30 -- WALL, St. Ambrose use. This can be fatal for the mother as person does not “become” human, he or Sacred Heart Cathedral – – Confirmation, 6:30 p.m. about what these drugs do to a newly con- Chrism Mass, 11 a.m. and ceived human person. Nor, do they under- well as the baby. she is human. There is nothing that sud- 1:30 p.m. Presbyteral stand what these drugs do to a woman’s Recent scientific studies provide support denly “happens” that would make this Council Christ the King body, not to mention the lasting effects on for the moral teachings of the Church as embryonic human being more human once 3 -- SAN ANGELO, Retreat Center a mother’s heart? regards the consequences of Plan B. It is the journey has been made through the fal- Diocesan Pastoral Center – In this article I share with you some important that Catholics and all people of lopian tube to implant in the mother’s Staff Mass at 8:30 a.m. and APRIL Staff Meeting, 11 am. reflections taken from two fine articles in good will be informed about the effects of uterus. 1 -- Bishop’s Lenten Staff the December 2006 Ethics & Medics emergency contraceptives. Much educa- (Please See PILL/17) 4 -- ROWENA, St. Joseph Retreat – Confirmation at 5 p.m. 3-5 -- St. Ann’s Midland 5 -- SAN ANGELO, Confirmation Retreat Sacred Heart Cathedral 5 -- CKRC Confirmation –Palm Sunday Mass, 9:45 Retreat March 22 designated as World Water Day a.m. 6 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer 5 -- SAN ANGELO, Holy Group - Life in the Spirit  Water is a right, and profits should “economic good.” ties, purifying objects for ritual use as Angels – Seder Meal at 5:30 Seminar not be the only reason to protect it. Water—no other substance on earth well as for making a person clean, physi- p.m. 7 -- Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament 5-6pm carries so profound a spiritual meaning. cally and spiritually. Preserving and 7 -- SAN ANGELO, By Bishop Michael Pfeifer Looked at globally, the principal difficul- making available fresh water as a sacred Sacred Heart Cathedral – 10-12 -- Office Closed – Lenten Penance Service at 7 Good Friday ty today is fairness of distribution of legacy is a collective responsibility that p.m. 12 -- Easter Sunday - The 3rd annual celebration of World water and water quality; not absolute includes the involvement and participa- Resurrection 9 -- SAN ANGELO, 1:00 13 -- Heart of Mercy Water Day, on March 22, reminds us of scarcity of water. tion of all. p.m. C.A.R.E.S. Meeting Prayer Group - Life in the the precious gift of water, how we should World Water Day is a time to thank Considering water as a right that is Sacred Heart Cathedral– Spirit Seminar appreciate and use it wisely, protect it, God for the water we have and to renew based on the dignity of the human per- Holy Thursday Mass at 7 pm 14 -- Adoration of the our appreciation of this most precious son, reminds us that water should not be 10 -- SAN ANGELO, St. conserve it, and remember that it is Blessed Sacrament 5-6pm meant for all people. Here in West Texas life-giving gift. Our physical dependence considered and treated only as an eco- Margaret - Way of the Cross 17-19 -- Deacon Training at 1:00 p.m.; 7:00 St. Program where dryness is more common and upon water and the graciousness of a nomic good. It must be used in a rational Joseph – Good Friday 19 -- Rowena Women’s especially because we usually do not loving God, Creator and Father, is manner and in a spirit of solidarity, tak- Service ACTS Mtg. have an abundance of rainfall, water is reflected in the central place that water ing into account the needs of all people. 11 -- SAN ANGELO, 20 -- Heart of Mercy indeed a very precious gift. Water is a takes in the practices and belief of world May World Water Day be the occasion Sacred Heart Cathedral – Prayer Group religions and the spirituality of indige- for all of us to examine how we are to Easter Vigil Service at 8:00 21 -- Adoration of the right, and profits should not be the only p.m. Blessed Sacrament 5-6pm reason to protect it. Pope Benedict XVI nous people. Water, a creative force, is use and not abuse this precious commod- 12 -- SAN ANGELO, St. 23-26 -- Rowena Women’s recently reminded us that there is a “right essential for all life. It is the common ity that is meant to help sustain all life on Mary - Easter Sunday Mass ACTS Retreat to water,” based on the dignity of the heritage of all creation, a sacred gift. planet earth. at 10:00 am 27 -- Heart of Mercy Prayer Group human person, and it is not simply an Water cleanses: it washes away impuri- 13 -- SAN ANGELO, 28 -- Adoration of the Bishop’s Residence – Dinner Blessed Sacrament 5-6pm at Bishop’s Residence for Priests, Sisters, Diocesan The meaning of indulgence as taught by the Church Pastoral Center Staff at 6 By Bishop Michael Pfeifer, OMI need to recognize that whatever help we devotions and indulgences, a clear under- p.m. NECROLOGY 14-16 -- Rest and Prayer April can give each other ultimately comes not standing of the Church’s teaching on 3 -- Deacon Edward 17 -- SAN ANGELO, In recent weeks, there has been a from ourselves but from Christ. John Paul indulgences is necessary to appreciate the Martinez (1985) American Cancer Fund renewed interest generated by the secular II stated, “For when the faithful gain role of popular devotional practice in the 16 -- Deacon Eliseo Carillo Raiser – 11 a.m. media about indulgences. Hence, this is a indulgences, they realize that by their own life of the Church. (1989) 17 -- ODESSA, Holy 17 -- Rev. Lee timely opportunity to present the clear powers, they cannot atone for the evil that Hence in this article, I share with you Redeemer – Confirmation at Zimmerman, C.M. (2000) teaching of the Catholic Church about the they have afflicted upon themselves and the answer to the important question of: 6:30 pm. 19 -- Rev. John Lavin true meaning of indulgences. the entire community by sinning; they, What are indulgences? The information 18-20 -- SAN ANTONIO, (1983) To begin, I share with you the reflec- therefore, are moved to healthy humility.” that I share with you here and in future MACC Board Meeting 19 -- Deacon Hubert (Apostolic Constitution on Indulgences) articles in the West Texas Angelus about 21 --SAN ANTONIO – tions of Pope John Paul II who taught as Collins (1999) Father Ted Pfeifer’s 50th regards indulgences, “The truth about the A number of popular devotions have indulgences comes from the publication of 21 -- Rev. Thomas Leahy, Anniversary Communion of Saints which unites indulgences attached to them. Indeed, the the United States Catholic Bishops on SAC (1969) 22 -- OZONA, Our Lady of believers to Christ and to one another, fact that a particular devotion has an “Popular Devotional Practices: Basic 23 -- Rev. Louis Droll Per.Help–Confirmation, 6 :30 reveals how much each one can help oth- indulgence attached to it is an indication questions and answers.” I point out that (2006) p.m. 25 -- Deacon John Munoz ers—living or dead—to become even that this devotional practice has proven much of the answer 23 -- ABILENE, St. (2007) more intimately united with the Father in itself within the Church to be helpful in Vincent – Dedication of St. 29 -- Deacon Hubert Heaven.” The Pope pointed out clearly bringing people closer to God. Because of Vincent de Paul Building at Daigle (1986) that all of us in the Communion of Saints the close association between popular (Please See INDULGENCES/18) 6:30 p.m. The Angelus MARCH 2009 Page 5 Pro-life advocates in Abilene to launch groundbreaking ‘40 Days’ The Angelus “As peo- nated 40 results, we are excited to see what God has ple here in Days for Life in store for this spring.” ABILENE – Abilene area pro-life advo- Abilene join campaigns. “We are expecting great things for our cates joined together with people of faith with others The efforts of local 40 Days for Life campaign,” said and conscience from more than 130 com- from across thousands of Matchen. “Our prayer efforts will be munities nationwide on February 25 to kick the country people of focused on the Planned Parenthood clinic off the area’s own version of the ground- to pray and faith helped as that organization is the largest abortion breaking “40 Days for Life campaign.” fast and take courageous action for 40 days make a tremendous difference. Numerous provider nationwide. It is exciting for our “ ‘Forty Days for Life’ is an intensive to end the tragic violence of abortion, we cities reported a significant drop in abor- city to be a part of something that can have pro-life initiative that focuses on 40 days of look forward to seeing what kind of trans- tions. Some abortion facilities either closed such lifesaving impact, and we can’t wait prayer and fasting, 40 days of peaceful formation God will bring about in our city altogether or scaled back their operations to begin.” vigil at abortion facilities, and 40 days of and throughout America,” said Matchen. during the campaign. New volunteers To learn more about 40 Days for Life grassroots educational outreach,” said “40 Days for Life has already generated became active in local pro-life efforts. campaign, visit: www.40daysforlife.com. Paula Matchen, campaign director for the proven lifesaving results in cities across Churches of different denominations For information about the Abilene cam- Abilene “40 Days for Life campaign.” America,” said David Bereit, national cam- worked together to work for an end to paign visit: “The 40-day time frame is drawn from paign director for 40 Days for Life. abortion in their cities. Many post-abortive www.40daysforlife.com/Abilene examples throughout Biblical history “During three national coordinated cam- women begin programs to heal from the For assistance or for more information, where God brought about world-changing paigns, a total of more than 180 communi- pain caused by previous abortion experi- please contact Paula Matchen at transformation in 40-day periods. ties joined together for nationally coordi- ences. With such a strong track record of [email protected] or 325-260-3970. San Angelo Heart of Mercy group hosts ‘Life in the Spirit’ Seminar

The Angelus well and very active in our time. And, don’t you think we need some miracles Many people doubt that the miracles that now? occurred on Pentecost and in the work of The Holy Father affirmed that the "eccle- Christ and His apostle’s still happen in our sial movements and new communities, day and age. The feeling is that they which bloomed after the Second Vatican Bishop Michael weren’t needed anymore when the last Council, are a unique gift of the Lord and a Pfeifer, center, with Apostle died. When Christ left this earth, precious resource for the life of the Sister Hilda He said that He would send a Paraclete, a Church." Marotta, Director of helper. No where in the bible does it say "They should be welcomed with trust and the Office of that there was a deadline – in fact Jesus valued in their various contributions," he stat- Education and promised the He would be with us forever! ed. "One of the positive elements and aspects Formation, and The power of the Holy Spirit was of the communities of the Catholic Sister Adelina released on that long ago Pentecost day Charismatic Renewal is precisely the impor- Garcia of the OEF. and wonderful miracles occurred. People tance given by them to the charisms and gifts were healed, physically, emotionally and of the Holy Spirit and their merit lies in hav- spiritually. Pope Benedict affirmed this in ing reminded the Church of the actuality [of Diocesan OEF receives $2,000 October when he received in audience two these gifts]." A Spirit-filled life includes many groups attending conferences related to the ways of sharing what we have found with Catholic Charismatic Renewal. “The others. God sets our hearts on fire, like the grant from Youth Foundation charisms arise "as visible signs of the com- disciples on the road to Emmaus. "They said The Office of Education and $125.00 per person. This includes regis- ing of the Holy Spirit." They are not, "a to each other, "Wasn't it like a fire burning in Formation recently received a $2,000 tration and room and board. The facili- historical event of the past," but an "always us when he talked to us on the road and from the Catholic Youth Foundation tator this year is Marcos Martinez from living reality." explained the Scriptures to us?" (Luke 24:32) USA to be used for the MAKE A DIF- Catholic Relief Services. Marcos served That power is still available to us and The Heart of Mercy Prayer Group would FERENCE justice and service high as a Diocesan Youth Ministry Director in when we open ourselves to the gifts of the like to invite you to attend a Life in the school program this summer. the Diocese of El Paso and most recently Holy Spirit, we become a well of God's Spirit Seminar. Learn how to receive all The Catholic Youth Foundation recent- on the staff of the Mexican American love. And, as that well fills up, we want to the gifts and blessings that God has waiting ly awarded $68,000 in grants to various Cultural Center in San Antonio. empty it by sharing the joy and love that for you. Our Seminar is designed to run 7 programs serving youth throughout the “This program was initially made pos- comes from our unique relationship with Mondays, starting on Monday, March 2, country. sible by a grant from the Catholic God. Miracles occur, healings are seen and from 7:00 - 9:00 PM and ending on April The grant will be used for this sum- Extension Society three years ago. We the presence of God is experienced in a 13. It will be held at Christ the King mer’s MAKE A DIFFERENCE week are grateful that we will be able to offer whole new way. When we empty ourselves Retreat Center in San Angelo. being held at the Christ the King Retreat it again this year. It is a wonderful to others, God constantly refills us, and we Please call 325-223-1509 for more infor- Center June 7-12, 2009. Applications opportunity for young people to learn see that the Holy Spirit is indeed alive, mation or with questions. are available at local parishes or call the about their faith and put it into practice Office of Education and Formation (325- in the local community,” said S. Hilda 651-7500). The cost of the week is Marotta, director of OEF. Page 6 MARCH 2009 The Angelus Making Sense of Bioethics Verbal engineering and the swaying of public conscience Un futuro embarazo By Fr. Tad Pacholczyk ing contraception. Not until the 1930 belonging to a natural process while vio- sería demasiado Lambeth Conference did the Anglican lently and unnaturally thwarting the Over the years, a number of unjust laws church, swayed by growing societal pres- process itself." arriesgado have come to be replaced by more just sure, announce that contraception would Fast on the heels of such seismic cultural ones. Laws overturning the practice of be allowed in some circumstances. Soon shifts over contraception was even more slavery, for example, were a significant after, the Anglican church yielded entirely, radical legislation permitting abortion-on- Padre Tad Pacholczyk step forward in promoting allowing contraception across the board. demand. Since the early 1970’s, such leg- Enero, 2009 justice and basic human Since then, every major Protestant denom- islation has effectively enabled the surgical (De la serie “Making Sense Out of Bioethics”) rights in society. Yet in ination has followed suit, even though killing of 1 billion human beings world- very recent times, unjust their founders, including Luther, Calvin wide who were living in the peaceful envi- La capacidad de una mujer para sobrellevar un and immoral laws have, and Wesley, had all unhesitatingly con- ronment of a womb. Here too, sophisticat- embarazo puede verse afectada por ciertas with increasing frequency, demned contraception, and insisted that it ed verbal engineering was necessary, since condiciones médicas, y en ocasiones hasta su come to replace sound violated the right order of sexuality and nobody could reasonably expect the abor- propia vida o la del bebé se ven amenazadas. La and reasonable ones, par- marriage. Today, it is only the Catholic tion ethic to advance by saying, “Let’s kill hipertensión pulmonar, el síndrome de Marfan y ticularly in the area of Church which teaches this traditional the kids.” Many things simply cannot be algunos problemas congénitos con la arteria aorta sexual morality, bioethics view. achieved when it is clear to everyone what son ejemplos de estas condiciones. Cuando el and the protection of Pacholczyk How is it that modern times have seen is going on; obfuscation is essential. human life. Whenever long- such a striking reversal of this ancient The growing child in the womb was thus doctor informa a la paciente que un futuro standing laws are reversed, and practices view of the moral unacceptability of con- recast as a “mass of tissue” or a “grouping embarazo tendría consecuencias serias para ella o come to be sanctioned that were formerly traception? How is it that our age contin- of cells.” The abortion procedure itself was para su bebé, la ligadura de trompas de Falopio forbidden, it behooves us to examine ues to witness a seemingly endless stream re-described as “removing the product of puede parecer lo más indicado. Habrá quien hasta whether such momentous legal shifts are of legislative activity that promotes con- conception” or “terminating a pregnancy” afirme que como la esterilización es “por razones morally coherent or not. traception through exorbitant government or simply, “the procedure.” Those who médicas”, se trata entonces de una “esterilización Concerns about moral coherence have funding initiatives in nearly every major were “pro-choice” obfuscated as to what indirecta” y por lo tanto moralmente aceptable. always influenced the crafting of new country of the world, with American tax- the choice was really for. As one commen- A decir verdad, la ligadura de estos conductos laws, as they did in 1879 when the State payers providing, for example, more than tator put it, “I think a more realistic term uterinos para evitar un embarazo futuro no es, de of Connecticut enacted strong legislation $260 million of Planned Parenthood’s would be ‘pro-baby killing’.” ninguna manera, una esterilización indirecta. Si la outlawing contraception, specified as the total income for 2004? Can something Euphemism, of course, has a serious pérdida de la fertilidad fuera el resultado – no la use of “any drug, medicinal article or almost universally decried as an evil in reason for being. It conceals the things intención-- de un tratamiento dirigido a un instrument for the purpose of preventing the past suddenly become a good, or is people fear. It is defensive in nature, off- problema médico, entonces sí se trataría de una conception.” This law, like the anti-contra- such a legislative reversal not indicative setting the power of tabooed terms and esterilización indirecta. Por ejemplo, cuando un ception laws of various other states, was of a significant misuse of law, and of a otherwise eradicating from the language paciente con cáncer recibe radiación y in effect for nearly 90 years before it was collective loss of conscience on an those matters that people prefer not to quimioterapia, un resultado secundario y no reversed in 1965. It codified the long- unprecedented scale? deal with directly. A healthy legislative intencional puede ser la esterilidad. O en el caso standing dictate of the public conscience Whenever widespread social engineer- process, however, will abstain from de un paciente que lucha contra el cáncer that contraception was harmful to society ing of this magnitude occurs, it is invari- euphemism and obfuscation, zeroing in on testicular, es posible que se requiera la extirpación because it promoted promiscuity, adultery ably preceded by skillful verbal engineer- truth and moral coherence. It will safe- quirúrgica de sus testículos para atacar la and other evils. It relied on the nearly uni- ing. The late Msgr. William Smith guard and promote an enlightened public versal sensibility that children should be observed that the argument about contra- conscience, particularly when crafting enfermedad, con la consecuencia indeseable de seen as a help and a blessing to society, ception was basically over as soon as laws dealing with the most foundational quedar estéril. Las esterilizaciones indirectas son and that, as Joseph Sobran puts it, “a modern society accepted the deceptive human realities like sexual morality, moralmente permisibles siempre que exista una healthy society, however tolerant at the phrase, “birth control” into its vocabulary. bioethics and the protection of human life. patología seria y los efectos anticonceptivos no margins, must be based on the perception “Imagine if we had called it, ‘life preven- Rev. Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D. earned his sean la intención. that sex is essentially procreative, with its tion’,” he once remarked. The great G. K. doctorate in neuroscience from Yale and did Sin embargo, cuando una paciente con proper locus in a loving family.” Chesterton put it this way: “They insist on post-doctoral work at Harvard. He is a hipertensión pulmonar opta por ligar sus trompas Such a view had been remarkably talking about Birth Control when they priest of the diocese of Fall River, MA, and de Falopio, el objetivo de este procedimiento no es deeply engrained in Western society for mean less birth and no control,” and serves as the Director of Education at The tratar o curar su hipertensión, por lo tanto está millennia, and interestingly, until as late as again: “Birth Control is a name given to a National Catholic Bioethics Center in the 1930’s, all Protestant denominations succession of different expedients by Philadelphia. See www.ncbcenter.org. (Mira PADRE TAD/18) agreed with Catholic teaching condemn- which it is possible to filch the pleasure

Pilgrim Journeys – Regina Tours       -,/( Alexandra Morris, CDS International Specialist          +5 .+   12/# 4  +5.+ "Consider coming with me on a very personal pilgrimage to        ./ . 122 Croatia 21-%-3, ** 11  2 1  1/2#-0/03"",$1 this Fall and join Carol Ann Hunt for a lovely Roman Christmas, -0 /($0$3$*/41 12$0/-00$0(!*$0--)0 with Christmas Eve in St. Peter’s, the Vatican. 2(,"$ ,$/  $##(,& ,#-,%(/+ 1(-,(1$+0     (/01-++2,(-,/$00$0$(*0 ,#&(%10 [email protected] www.pilgrimjourneys.joystar.com  !* 0. ,-*'-,$-/#$/0 /$3$*"-+$- Or call Alex at 432.687.1038    The Angelus MARCH 2009 Page 7 Dioce-Scenes Midland

At left, PeggyMcCall of Odessa snapped this photograph of an unidentified woman holding a banner praising President Bush for his Pro-Life stance when the former president visited Midland following the inauguration of successor Barack Obama.

Above, left to right, Liz Hellinghausen Zenteno, Gerard Alcala and Sara Hellinghausen Welch were rec- ognized as Distinguished Graduates from St. Ann’s School February 6. The three qualified after hav- ing experienced success in their chosen vocations while leading lives of service to their church and community. Zenteno (St. Ann’s 1968-72) was a member of the first girl’s basketball team at St. Ann’s, along with sister, Sara. Zenteno graduated from Notre Dame and during her time as a lay missionary with Holy Cross Associates in Santiago, Chile, she met her husband, Blas. Zenteno is currently Director of Midland College’s Cogdell Learning Center. ... Gerard Alcala (St. Ann’s 1968-74) is former student body president at Midland High School, has a Master’s Degree from Rice University and an MBA from The University of Texas. He is a small business owner of a high-tech sound system compa- ny in Austin. ... Welch (St. Ann’s 1968-72) graduated from the University of Texas with a degree in Early Childhood Education and is a former teacher in Midland schools and coach at the COM Swim Center. She is currently in her 13th year as teacher of St. Ann’s 4-year-old pre-school. She has been named St. Ann’s Teacher of the year and has been selected to be a presenter at the National Catholic Education Association convention.

Prayer Sharing Number of priests showing steady, moderate increase VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- The known as the Annuario Pontificio, were 408,024 priests in the world, latest church statistics show that which catalogs the church's pres- 762 more than at the beginning of Morning Prayer the number of priests and seminar- ence in each diocese. the year. Jesus, I consecrate my day to you. You are my Lord and ians around the world has been The Vatican said the global The figure on the number of Savior and you are my friend. I ask you to guard and protect showing a modest, yet steady Catholic population increased dur- priests was showing a continued my life and my family. increase. ing 2007 by 1.4 percent, which "trend of moderate growth which The statistics from the end of more or less kept pace with the began in 2000 after more than 20 2007 also showed that the number 1.1 percent global birthrate that years of disappointing results," the Evening Prayer of Catholics remains stable at year. Vatican report said. Jesus, I consecrate this night to you. You are my Lord and 1.147 billion people across the For the past two years, Catholics However, that growth has been Savior. I praise you and thank you for this day. I ask your for- globe. have made up 17.3 percent of the confined to Africa and Asia, giveness for my sins. I pray you give my family protection The sampling of statistics was world's population, it said. which showed substantial increas- and a peaceful night’s sleep. released Feb. 28 in connection The number of priests in the es in ordinations with 27.6 percent with the presentation of the 2009 world also rose, but just by 0.18 growth and 21.1 percent growth, Submitted by Mrs. Mary Ann Book, Miles edition of the Vatican yearbook, percent. At the end of 2007 there respectively, it said. Page 8 MARCH 2009 The Angelus Catholic Voices Putting hope, perseverence to work in bad economy By Father William J. Byron, SJ This leaves the job seeker even more alone So he prays "to a god who would have noth- But you have to try it to become convinced. Catholic News Service and much discouraged. ing to do with a stained-glass window," and You have to believe that the other side of Below these surface-level disappointments gets this reply: "Son --/ This is the pain that every "out" is "in," and that any exit is an Several weeks ago, Microsoft eliminated lies a substratum of discouragement in many lets you know you're alive." entrance in reverse. Every ouster is the start- 5,000 jobs and IBM notified an undisclosed that calls out for the durability of hope, a call The fear that your existence isn't "doing any- ing gate for a comeback. number of employees that that does not ordinarily get an immediate one any good" adds a lot of heavy freight to a You deal with discouragement by not giving they would be subject to a response. job seeker's discouragement. If, as the psycholo- up. You simply decide not to live your life "resource action." That's a Hope is needed to provide the courage to gists remind us, depression is inverted anger -- "back there"; dredging up the past can be a new term for layoffs. endure. Those who experiences job loss need i.e., anger turned in on itself -- discouragement real depressant. Hundreds of thousands are immediate and repeated assurance that they might be thought of as an aching awareness of You decide to take life one day at a time, out of work and looking. have not been laid off from life. not being needed. The pain is there "under my asking yourself: What is most important in my Some job seekers find Back in the ‘60s when college students were fifth rib" all right, but it can serve as a reminder life right now? themselves for the first supposed to be unreflective activists, Jim Beek, that the job-seeker is alive, a full member of the And you know, as you look at your poten- time asking someone else a student at Loyola in Baltimore, wrote a poem human race, ready to contribute and walking a tial, your family responsibilities and the eco- for help. They find this for the campus literary quarterly that speaks to path of persistence that leads to another job. nomic realities of your existence, you realize distasteful. Byron the heart of the problem the person searching There's that word: persistence. that the most important thing for you right Unaccustomed as they are for work has to confront. Discouragement erodes it, undercuts it, puts now is getting a job. to asking for help, they are even less prepared The poem opened with the line: "I awoke in the fire out. Add your personal "Amen" to Faulkner's for the refusal and rejection those requests the silent fist of the night gagging on loneli- The really discouraged person stops looking. line in his Nobel acceptance speech: "I believe will draw. Not flat-out rejections; those will be ness." Then, several lines later, Beek writes: The persistent person never gives up. that man [woman would, of course, be specifi- rare. But letters have a way of being set aside, "And the fear that my existence wasn't Persistence can activate the optimism that cally included today] will not merely endure: resumes get lost, promised calls become doing/anyone any good/Was under my fifth lies hidden in the inner person, somewhere in He will prevail." promises broken. rib." the nervous system, ready to spring. Humanizing our economic mess Astonishing times By Tony Magliano due to man because he is a man, by a day, six to seven days a week. Catholic News Service reason of his lofty dignity." Kernaghan said that the Decent But an honest assessment of our so Working Conditions and Fair in a bad economy Though we are in the midst of an called free -- and often unfair -- mar- Competition Act, if passed by By Father Eugene Hemrick economic crisis, this need not imply ket economy reveals an economic Congress, would force corporations to Catholic News Service disaster. In the original Greek, the system that in many ways devalues uphold the minimal labor laws of word "crisis" means to judge or human dignity. As long as the each country they are doing business The new model of Rockport shoes was just what I was choose. A crisis is an opportunity to "almighty dollar" is the bottom line, in. It would also bind companies to looking for: smart-looking and well-constructed. Just before honestly judge where people will simply be cogs in the cor- honor internationally recognized purchasing them, I cleaned out my closet and found two we have gone wrong, porate wheel, often abused and easily labor standards like decent working pairs of shoes in fairly good shape except and wisely choose a expendable when their profit-generat- conditions, no child or forced labor for the heels. Suddenly I found myself new and morally bet- ing usefulness is deemed inadequate. and the right of workers to organize. confronted with a decision: Should I buy ter direction. Charles Kernaghan is executive You can make a real difference here the latest model of Rockports or put new In many ways, the director of the National Labor in helping to lift poor workers out of heels on the shoes I have? economic crisis Committee (www.nlcnet.org), an out- misery. Please call (Capitol switch- This is one small example of what many could be a great standing human and workers' rights board: 202/224-3121) and e-mail your Americans are doing -- choosing what to blessing ready to organization. He told me that "the vast U.S. senators and congressperson, urg- keep or let go, what to replace or repair. unfold -- if we Magliano majority of corporations will always ing them to introduce or co-sponsor the We cannot go without the necessities of choose creatively to exploit misery." He said companies Decent Working Conditions and Fair life: food, shelter, clothing, medicine, build an economic system based on lobby hard to acquire legal protection Competition Act. And ask your pastor Hemrick heat and lighting. Although these can social justice and love for all. for their trademarks, logos and intellec- to help promote this effort. also provide us with comforts, they are But if we primarily put our efforts tual property, yet they fiercely oppose During a pastoral visit to Canada in nonetheless life-giving. into simply repairing a sick economic legal protection for workers' rights. 1984, Pope John Paul II prophetically The tanking of the stock market, loss of homes and jobs system, we will end up with a very The corporate world is in "a race to declared: "The needs of the poor take have created a new era in which the necessities of life must similar market economy plagued with the bottom," said Kernaghan. For priority over the desires of the rich; be prioritized over life's comforts, and even some of these inefficiency, greed and injustice. example, Mattel's Barbie doll has the rights of workers over the maxi- necessities are no longer affordable for a growing number In his powerful encyclical on econom- rights -- copyrights. This means that mization of profits; the preservation of Americans. How to respond to this is the question of the ic justice titled "Centesimus Annus," if the doll is significantly copied, the of the environment over uncontrolled moment. Pope John Paul II wrote that "there are copier is sued. Yet the people in industrial expansion; production to Hopefully, stimulus packages, new programs and stream- many human needs which find no place Mexico or China who make the dolls meet social needs over production for lining will come to the rescue. How long it will take is on the market. It is a strict duty of jus- have no rights. These workers, like military purposes." another question, and what to do in the meantime is even tice and truth not to allow fundamental countless others in poor countries If we take these principles of our more the question. human needs to remain unsatisfied, and who make products for American cor- late great pope seriously and strive to As difficult as the times are, we have a wonderful oppor- not to allow those burdened by such porations, are paid pennies an hour, find ways to put them into practice, needs to perish. ... have no benefits, labor in substandard we will finally build an economic (Please See HEMRICK/18) "There exists something which is conditions and work at least 14 hours system worthy for humanity! The Angelus MARCH 2009 Page 9 Nation/World Women, men experience sin differently, papal theologian says By Carol Glatz comes gluttony, sloth, wrath, pride, envy, and greed," wrote because they are accompanied by a strong sense of humilia- Catholic News Service Father Giertych. tion and, as such, can be an occasion to return to God," said "For women, the most dangerous is pride, followed by Father Giertych. VATICAN CITY -- Of the seven deadly sins, men are envy, wrath, lust, gluttony, and lastly, sloth," he said. However, lust and unchaste behavior "are dangerous from more prone to be tempted by lust, while women more often The priest said personal experience seemed to confirm the point of view of their social consequences" or the com- succumb to the sin of pride, the papal theologian said. these theories. plications they cause in one's personal life, he said. In comments on a new book dedicated to St. Thomas "In convents, women religious are often envious of each While some individuals and cultures may be more tempt- Aquinas' teachings on the seven capital vices, Dominican other over little things, but when the church bell rings, ed to pursue power and wealth over pleasure, "human Father Wojciech Giertych said men and women experience everyone goes to the chapel to sing vespers," he said. nature is always the same," he said. sin differently. His commentary was published Feb.16 by "Monks, however, aren't often interested in each other Everyone must make a personal examination of con- the Vatican newspaper, L'Osservatore Romano. and, therefore, aren't jealous, but when the church bell science in order to discover which vices are his or her Father Giertych, who is theologian of the papal house- rings, few take part in common prayer," he said. greatest obstacles to receiving God's grace, he said. hold, said he agreed with the findings of St. Thomas He said St. Thomas Aquinas taught that pride is humani- Because God is a merciful and loving father, people Aquinas -- a 13th-century Dominican theologian and ty's greatest enemy because it leads a person to believe he should not be afraid of his judgment, the papal theologian philosopher -- that men were more inclined than women to or she is self-sufficient and "hinders a person from having a said. "His heart joyfully awaits the encounter" with some- pursue pleasure. relationship with God." one who has sinned, he said. "Often the most difficult (sin) men face is lust, and then Lust and "the sins against chastity are less dangerous Papal trip to Holy Land takes shape

By John Thavis Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI's planned trip to the Holy Land was slowly taking shape in February, and the tentative schedule included a number of impor- tant pastoral and interreligious events. The proposed itinerary would take the pope to Jordan Bishop David Zurek: May 8-11, for a visit to the new King Hussein Mosque in “When I think of the Diocese Amman, meetings with Jordanian officials, a Mass for of Pittsburgh, I think of a Catholics in a soccer stadium, a stop at Jesus' baptism site church sharing, reaching out at the Jordan River and a pilgrimage to Mount Nebo, to serve those who are in where Moses once looked out at the Promised Land. need.” The pope would travel from Jordan to Israel May 11 and visit the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial in Jerusalem the same day. Over the next three and a half days, he would visit the Western Wall, sacred to Jews; Pittsburgh bishop urges Catholics to meet with Jewish and Muslim leaders; hold talks with Israeli and Palestinian leaders; visit a Palestinian refugee camp; and celebrate Mass in Bethlehem, face economic crisis together in Christ Nazareth and Jerusalem. Before returning to Rome May 15, the tentative PITTSBURGH (CNS) -- Bishop ple of Pittsburgh during the Great pew. They spilled out onto the side- schedule calls for the pope to hold a brief ecumenical David A. Zubik of Pittsburgh has Depression and reminded Catholics of a walks and streets," he said. There encounter and visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. called on the Catholic community to local tragedy that united citizens in were Catholics and Protestants, There was talk of a papal stop in war-devastated Gaza, face the nation's current economic 1931. A fire that broke out in a home Christians and non-Christians, believ- but Vatican sources said there were no firm plans for crisis together in Christ. for the needy elderly operated by the ers and nonbelievers, he said. such an event; instead, a delegation of Gaza residents "When I think of the Diocese of Little Sisters of the Poor. The death toll "It was if the city itself was coming was expected to attend one of the papal Masses. Pittsburgh, I think of a church shar- was 49, and another 175 were injured. to terms with its grief over the fire The Vatican's chief papal trip planner was expected ing, reaching out to serve those who All but eight bodies of those who and, perhaps even more so, to come to meet with local organizers in late February to work are in need," the bishop said in the died were claimed by their relatives. to terms with the Depression itself," out a definitive schedule for the visit. second pastoral letter he has issued as Pittsburgh Bishop Hugh Boyle Bishop Zubik said. Meanwhile, Archbishop Antonio Franco, the Vatican head of the diocese. presided at a funeral Mass for the After the funeral, he said, Bishop nuncio to Israel and Palestinian territories, said the impor- The letter is titled "The Church eight at St. Paul Cathedral, which Boyle made a radio appeal for tance of the papal visit to the small Catholic community Sharing!" Dated for Ash Wednesday, drew one of the "largest crowds ever $300,000 to help the Little Sisters of in the Holy Land should not be overlooked. Feb. 25, it was released Feb. 18. to gather at the cathedral," Bishop the Poor rebuild the home. In three "The visit of the pope is that of the spiritual head of Bishop Zubik recalled the generous Zubik said. months, "people contributed that, and the Catholic community, and so he is coming to visit compassion and faithfulness of the peo- "The people of the city filled every more," he added. his children who are here, in Jordan and the Holy Land," Archbishop Franco said. Page 10 MARCH 2009 The Angelus The Angelus MARCH 2009 Page 11 Getting Lent Popular Catholic Web Q&A off to a good site content put out in Covering church book, sent to pastors statues, art with By Chaz Muth one of the founders of the Web start this year Catholic News Service site that inspired the book. “But purple for Lent we’re hoping to expand our audi- WASHINGTON — In the 10 ence, and this book will help, espe- By Effie Caldarola years since Creighton University cially if parishes begin using it.” By Father John Dietzen Catholic News Service in Omaha, Neb., began offering The book, “Praying Lent: Catholic News Service ministry guidance and Renewing Our Q. At the start of Lent in our parish, the stat- I received an e-mail message forwarded from Lent 2009 Calendar aids on its Web site, Lives on the Lenten ues and pictures in church are covered with a someone like me who never, ever forwards those the technology has Journey,” is a guide purple cloth. Other churches in our area do not annoying “send this to nine other people or your exploded and so has for Catholics about March 1 -- First Sunday of do this. Is there a rule about this, or is it up to toenails will fall out” messages. the audience of the how to celebrate an each parish? (New York) OK, maybe those emails don’t Lent Catholic Web site, often misunderstood A. I’ve never heard of statues being covered say you’ll forfeit your toenails, March 25 -- The Annunciation which received more season. during the whole of Lent. Before 1970, crosses and but some of them are pretty darn than 21 million hits in Father Alexander of the Lord other images in Catholic churches were traditional- threatening or stupid. the past year. and Maureen Fr. Andy Alexander and Maureen April 5 -- Palm Sunday ly covered with purple veils during the final two But my friend didn’t ask me to The site has become Waldron — staff McCann Waldron. weeks of Lent, during what was then called forward the message, she just April 9 -- Holy Thursday so popular that a members of the Passiontide. liked it so much she had to pass it April 10 -- Good Friday Catholic publishing Jesuit-run universi- information about what that peri- When the revised missal was published in 1970, on. house in Chicago has ty’s Collaborative od means to Catholics and what April 11 -- Holy Saturday however, it included a different regulation, which I loved it too. It had a picture published some of the Ministry Office — the church expects from them. is found at the end of the Mass for Saturday of the of a smiling Jesus embracing a April 12 -- Easter Sunday content in book form set up the Creighton “At the end of Lent of 1998, fourth week of Lent. young woman in jeans, and it April 19 -- Divine Mercy and sent a complimen- University Web site when we first went online with “The practice of covering crosses and images in said, “Be the kind of woman that tary copy to every in 1998 to provide daily reflections, a woman wrote Caldarola Pope says fasting in Lent opens Sunday the church may be observed, if the episcopal con- when your feet hit the ground each Catholic parish in the U.S. daily reflections for the faculty to us and said she was visiting May 21 -- Ascension of the ference decides.” In that case, beginning on the morning the devil says, ‘Oh crap, she’s up!’” “I know that it may sound a lit- and staff to help them understand Hong Kong and heard about our second Sunday before Easter, “The crosses are to Forgive the language, but boy, did I need that hearts to God, hands to the poor Lord tle odd that a book would come the school’s mission. site from a priest from Baltimore be covered until the end of the celebration of the encouragement to arise this season. Am I the only May 31 -- Pentecost Sunday out of stuff from a Web site, and During Lent that year the daily and told us how much our post By Cindy Wooden she said. “Since 2007, 115 million were added to Lord’s passion on Good Friday. Images are to one who thinks it’s been an exceptionally long, not the other way around,” said reflections focused on the 40 days Catholic News Service the ranks of the hungry to create a total of nearly (Please See CREIGHTON/19) remain covered until the beginning of the Easter cold winter? Jesuit Father Andy Alexander, leading up to Easter and provided 1 billion people without adequate food.” Vigil.” Now I know there are some readers who may VATICAN CITY — Fasting from food and Sheeran said that at a time when the U.S. and These rubrics were repeated by the Congregation not live in the Northern Hemisphere, so bear with detaching oneself from material goods during Lent other governments are announcing multitrillion- for Divine Worship in 1988. me. Even U.S. citizens down South have had to Foley: The deeper one’s faith, the greater one’s generosity help believers open their hearts to God and open dollar packages to bailout banks, car companies As of now, the U.S. Conference of Catholic contend with severe ice storms this year. their hands to the poor, Pope Benedict XVI said. and other industries, the World Food Program is Bishops has not voted to continue the rule of cov- And I live in Alaska, where the cold contends By Catholic News Service Sisters of the Poor or the Dominican sisters who than $57,000. The Lenten fast helps Christians “mortify our ego- asking that 0.7 percent of all stimulus plans be ering images. Thus the practice has not been per- with the darkness to see which can drive us crazy cared for those dying of cancer needed the help “They conclude that if all committed ism and open our hearts to love of God and neigh- dedicated to hunger relief. mitted in this country for 38 years. Individual first. At the height of winter in Anchorage, we get BONITA SPRINGS, Fla. — Noting that much more than either of them needed a new coat.” Christians, not just Catholics, could be bor,” said the pope in his message for Lent 2009. “Financial rescue packages must serve not only parishes have no authority to reintroduce the prac- five hours of sunlight — and we live in the state’s churchgoers’ generosity to charity has declined in A survey done last spring of Christians about moved to more generous giving, say to 10 The papal message for Lent, which began Feb. Wall Street and Main Street, but also the places tice on their own. sunnier region. Travel up to Barrow and you won’t 25 for Latin-rite Catholics, was released Feb. 3 at with no streets,” she said. recent decades, U.S. Cardinal John P. Foley told their donations found that 46 percent had reduced percent of income, a total of more than $133 see the sun at all. a Catholic donors group that “generosity is relat- their contributions to charity because of the econ- billion — that’s $133 billion — more dollars the Vatican. Cardinal Cordes and Sheeran agreed that the Q. My wife is Catholic and I was raised But that five hours is a little deceptive. Our sun ed to faith; the greater and deeper our faith, the omy. The worst plunges of the stock market and could be raised for worthy causes each year,” Cardinal Paul Cordes, president of the Pontifical financial bailout plans are necessary not just for Protestant. Since our marriage six years ago, we rises tepidly in the southeast, and it spends its few greater will be our generosity.” the related job loss and corporate cuts of 2008 said Cardinal Foley, who headed the Council Cor Unum, the Vatican’s office for pro- helping the world’s richest nations, but also for have attended Mass together, especially during visible hours ambling along the southern horizon In an address Jan. 29 to a meeting of occurred in the last four months. Pontifical Council for Social moting and coordinating charity, told reporters preventing a worsening situation in poor countries Lent. before sinking beneath the waters of Turnagain Foundations and Donors Interested in Catholic The poll by Wilson Research Strategies for Communications for 23 years until 2007. that Christian fasting brings together love for God dependent on exports, on development aid and on Neither she nor I, however, understand what I Arm in the southwest. Activities, or FADICA, Cardinal Foley, grand- Dunham+Company noted that the more commit- The authors noted that one in five Christians and love for neighbor. the money their citizens working abroad send and others who are not Catholic should do or When I went to Phoenix this winter I was master of the Knights of the Holy Sepulcher, ted people are to their religious practices, the less gives nothing to the church and that a small “The pope reminds us of our obligation to open home to support their families. not do at Mass. I know we should not receive amazed to see the sun high up in the sky. I’d for- recalled his childhood and young adult years likely they were to say they had reduced their minority of generous donors contribute most of our hearts and our hands to those in need,” he said “If the financial system fails completely, it will Communion, but how about bowing or genu- gotten that’s where it’s supposed to be. when even children commonly tithed a percent- charitable giving. the money used by Christian charities, he said. at the Vatican presentation of the message. hurt the poor first,” Cardinal Cordes said. flecting before entering the pew? So this winter I’ve found myself yearning to turn age of their allowance or other earnings to their The poll also found those most affected by the The book also said that despite a massive The Vatican invited Josette Sheeran, executive Sheeran said the 2007-2008 food crisis — when Can we go forward at Communion time with the alarm clock off, scrunch down under my cov- churches and other charities. economic downturn at its worst point last year growth in per capita income the percentage donat- director of the U.N.’s World Food Program, to the price of basic staples soared — combined with others who cross their arms for a blessing? May ers and go back to sleep. Unfortunately, my job An advance copy of the text of his speech was were those over age 55, which also is the seg- ed has declined, and that wealthier U.S. help present the papal message. more recent job losses because of the financial cri- we stand for the Gospel, for example? And give has flexible part-time hours, so I confess I’ve released by his Vatican office. ment of the population most supportive of non- Christians give little or no more money as a per- “Serving the hungry is a moral call that unites sis involved “two separate problems, but the result the sign of peace? Make the sign of the cross at given in to that impulse more than once. “What has happened in the years since the profit organizations. centage of their income than do poorer Christians. people of all faiths,” said Sheeran, whose organiza- is the same: malnutrition and death.” the sprinkling of holy water? Now, therapists will tell you that wanting to 1950s,” when people like his parents “gave easi- Cardinal Foley cited the book “Passing the Cardinal Foley said the authors suggest that tion relies heavily on Catholic charities and other In his message, Pope Benedict said the Lenten I’m sure this is trivial, but I know others in sleep all the time is a sign of depression, but I ly,” he asked. Plate: Why American Christians Don’t Give one reason why U.S. Christians donate relatively faith-based organizations to distribute food aid. practices of prayer, fasting and almsgiving are the parish are as confused as I am. (Ohio) don’t think I’m depressed. Once I do “hit the “At this time of worldwide economic chal- meant to help Christians focus on God and pre He recalled his mother and father donating “at Away More Money,” by Christian Smith, little to the church is that giving patterns in gen- lenges, let us not forget that the food and financial least 10 percent and as much as 20 percent of their Michael Emerson and Patricia Snell, which notes eral in the United States are “occasional and situ- (Please See CALDAROLA/19) crises hit the world’s most vulnerable the hardest,” (Please See FAST/19) income to the church, depriving themselves of new that in 2005 U.S. Catholics who regularly prac- ational, not a consistent, structured, routine prac- coats or a new car because they knew that the Little tice their faith had an average income of more tice.” (Please See Q&A/19) Page 12 MARCH 2009 The Angelus HOW TO GET ‘PRO’ ACTIVE

Members of the Sisters of Life cheer at the beginning of a pro-life youth Mass at the Verizon Center in Washington Jan. 22. Young people from across the nation packed the arena for the events held in advance of the annual March for Life. (CNS photo/Grego ry A. Shemitz) (Jan. 23, 2009) Speakers suggest ways to join pro-life, social justice efforts By Mark Pattison ing at a pro-life pregnancy center in South Bend, Ind. an effort one participant called "co-branding." Catholic News Service Noting the need to support a pregnant woman through-  Coordinating legislative advocacy. out her pregnancy, McQuade said, "You just can't say, 'Go  Changing diocesan personnel policies that offer little in WASHINGTON - At a Feb. 25 workshop during the to town, girl, you can choose life now.'" What they need the way of paid maternity leave and charge high sums for annual Catholic Social Ministry Gathering in Washington, help with, she said, ranges from big things, like getting a family members to be part of an employee's insurance speakers asked for a show of hands from those who high school diploma, to seemingly little things, like trans- coverage. worked in pro-life ministries for their diocese or parish. A portation to prenatal appointments. One participant called for the creation of a "Catholic majority of workshop participants raised their hands. While at the center, "my appreciation for people who Party" to challenge the Democrats and Republicans. Next came a request for a show of hands of how many were working on all these issues skyrocketed," McQuade Saying he was "sick of talking about working together," worked in social justice ministries for their parish or dio- said. Carr exhorted people to really work together instead. cese. Again, a majority of participants raised their hands. She listed the "four pillars" of the bishops' pastoral plan "Hold up the consistent life ethic, but don't use it as a The group was asked a third question: How many were for pro-life activities: public information and education, weapon," he added. "If you use it as a test, test yourself first." responsible for both pro-life and social justice ministries? public policy, pastoral care and prayer. "If building a cul- The Catholic Social Ministry Gathering, which drew 550 Another majority of hands, nearly as many who responded ture of life is weak in one of those four areas, it won't have participants, was co-sponsored by 18 agencies, including the first two times, went up. the strength it needs," she said. five agencies of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops: It seemed, then, that most of those at the workshop, Participants then voiced dozens of suggestions for the CCHD, the Secretariat of Cultural Diversity in the Church, "Promoting Human Life and Dignity: Working Together bishops' Task Force on Human Life and Dignity to consid- the Department of Justice, Peace and Human for Families at Risk," were already integrating their pro- er when they meet later this year. Development, Migration and Refugee Services, and the life and social justice efforts. Among them were: Secretariat of Pro-Life Activities. But they recognized shortcomings in their work and  Creating diocesan advisory boards to acquire a consis- Other co-sponsors were the Association of Catholic ministry that they wanted the U.S. bishops to address. tent voice on life issues. Colleges and Universities, Catholic Charities USA, the John Carr, executive director of the bishops' Department Halting criticism of social justice ministries that are try- Catholic Daughters of the Americas, the Catholic Health of Justice, Peace and Human Development, established the ing to do good. One example cited was criticism of the Association, Catholic Relief Services, the Conference of linkages at the workshop's start. "Without life, we can't Catholic Campaign for Human Development for its past Major Superiors of Men, JustFaith, the Ladies of Charity, have dignity," he said. "Without dignity, our life isn't truly ties with the Association of Community Organizations for the National Catholic Partnership on Disability, the human." Reform Now, known as ACORN. Last year CCHD cut off National Catholic Rural Life Conference, the National Deirdre A. McQuade, assistant director for policy and grant funding to ACORN, citing ACORN's financial irreg- Council of Catholic Women, the National Pastoral Life communications for the bishops' Secretariat of Pro-Life ularities. Center, the Roundtable Association of Diocesan Social Activities, detailed her efforts as a young volunteer work-  Working together instead of fighting for scarce dollars, Action Directors, and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul. The Angelus MARCH 2009 Page 13

Neighbors in peril ARE YOU QUALIFIED? As drug violence rises bishops urge reconciling with God Are you… Unhappy with your cur- rent job (underpaid, over- By David Agren FEDERAL POLICE worked, blocked from Catholic News Service PATROL BORDER promotion)? CITY OF CIUDAD  Currently looking for MEXICO CITY -- Catholic bish- JUAREZ a new career (sending ops in Chihuahua urged local resi- out resumes, asking dents to "reconcile with God" dur- Federal police patrol the about opportunities, border city of Ciudad ing the Lenten period as they con- unemployed)? Juarez, Mexico, March  front increasing drug-related vio- 2. Nearly 5,000 Mexican Facing an uncertain lence that has claimed nearly 400 soldiers and police have future (downsizing, lives so far this year in the northern been deployed to involved in a family Mexican state, which borders Texas Ciudad Juarez to restore business, in an appoint- and New Mexico. law and order to the ed position)? country's most violent  A letter from the bishops fol- Being paid less than city. (CNS photo/Tomas your worth (maxed out lowed the recent acknowledgment Bravo, Reuters) by federal officials that the ongoing in pay, subject to pay war against drug cartels claimed limits, can’t go any high- nearly 6,300 lives nationwide in er)?  A member of the 2008 and more than 1,000 lives Knights of Columbus (or nationwide this year. eligible to join)? "It's not only the government or  Personable and out- the soldiers or prisons that can pro- going? vide a solution to what happens. All  Anxious to earn an of us, changing from inside, can income equal to your build a new world. Only new worth? hearts will make a new society. And only God Rojas Lopez of Nuevo Casas Grandes, Bishop and the federal government ordered another  Seeking independ- can, if we allow Him, change our hearts," the Juan Lopez Soto of Cuauhtemoc-Madera and 5,000 police officers and soldiers into ence and control of your six bishops of the ecclesiastical province of Bishop Rafael Sandoval Sandoval of Tarahumara. Chihuahua and Ciudad Juarez, which borders own destiny? Chihuahua said in a March 1 message pub- The violence has been especially fierce in El Paso, Texas. lished in local newspapers. Chihuahua, which security analysts say is a key In Ciudad Juarez, Bishop Ascencio used a Do You… "We shout with the hearts of pastors: Repent corridor for cartels wanting to smuggle drugs pre-Lenten message to urge residents to depend Have a Catholic and change your life. God is willing to forgive, into the United States and import weapons for more on God during the crisis. Heart? Need a but this forgiveness entails being willing to go turf wars and assassinations. "The evil is so large that, on its own, it makes Professional Income? back to repair the damages and withdraw from Things became so dire in southern Chihuahua us think that we need the strength that comes Desire your own busi- this activity of death," they said. that Bishop Corral declared in November that from God for overcoming the evil that there is ness? Want excel- The letter was signed by Archbishop Jose those killed in drug-related activities would be in our own hearts and the evil that is around lent company benefits? Fernandez Arteaga of Chihuahua, Bishop Renato denied funeral rites. us," the bishop said in a message published Want a chance of a life- Ascencio Leon of Ciudad Juarez, Bishop Jose In Ciudad Juarez, meanwhile, 250 people Feb. 21 in Presencia, a diocesan publication. time career? Corral Arredondo of Parral, Bishop Gerardo were killed in drug crackdowns in February, Opportunity open in San Angelo Diocese BE A MEMBER OF THE TEXAS HIGH PER- FORMANCE AGENCY CATOIR: Parents often share similar sorrows TEAM! BROTHER KNIGHTS (From 3) the son of a Protestant minister who instructed ones who need the most help refuse that help SERVICING BROTHER him well in the faith. But the boy has a flare for when it is offered to them." KNIGHTS other damaging distractions. Compared to hav- dangerous risk-taking, calling the other boys How many good parents and grandparents ing a juvenile delinquent on their hands, this "chicken" if they don't follow him in one reck- have experienced this same kind of sorrow? For career information disappointment pales in comparison. less prank after another. As he gets older, he My heart goes out to all of you, especially contact General I am proud of those parents who tried so hard begins defying the wisdom of his father by those of you who have children who do not Agent: to do their best for their children. And yes, I am drinking and gambling. Then the dreaded day practice their faith. You have given so much for Jim Seideman, FIC, also proud of the Catholic school system for comes when his parents receive news that their your children. Oftentimes you were rewarded CLU, CSA teaching the words of Jesus, "Seek first the beloved son was beaten to death in a local bar. with ingratitude and grief. But do not be dis- (877) 797-5632 – Toll kingdom [of God] and his righteousness, and At the funeral, his father holds back tears as heartened. God is merciful! Free, all these things will be given you besides" (Mt he tries to preach the eulogy. He manages to Forgive yourself for not being a perfect or email 6:33). make the point that sometimes parents are human being. You did your best. Remember, James.seideman@ Recently I saw the movie "A River Runs unable to help those who are dearest to them. the Lord loves you and your children. Trust him kofc.org Through It" for the second time. Brad Pitt plays Shaking his head sadly, he adds, "It seems the and all will be well. Page 14 MARCH 2009 The Angelus Family/Humor If the pope blogs, what can be next, a papal Twitter? By Dan Morris (blogs, not you seven compatriots) seem to be something in the front yard (aka "the grounds") and look at it. As it Catholic News Service that a whole lot of people do on the Internet, and it basical- should be. ly sounds like an individual posting (you seven, look it up) But if it wanted to offer a blog, that would be around I think I have just become overcome by Technonewness- words, images and/or sounds of their choosing and inviting back where the groceries are delivered and where the real itis. It's a new disease. I know it is new other people to enjoy them. Or not. people work and get inside. because I just made it up. However, I have Some blogs let the bloggerreaderperson (aka Internet A papal blog would let just about anyone (even my seven been coming down with it for several years. addict) interact, interface, interfere and/or intergalacticize compatriots and I) know what the pope was thinking or An early onset happened while I was read- with the bloggerproprietor. Some don't. wanted us to think he was thinking or wanted us to know or ing a fax machine manual. Candidly, I don't know how Pope Benedict XVI could learn or think about -- without writing an encyclical, gather- I could actually feel a Technonewness-itis handle all the feedback he would be receiving from about, ing a zillion people at St. Peter's Square or filling up fever coming on a few minutes ago. My ears oh, a billion people or so -- and in roughly more languages Yankee Stadium like he did in April. are still ringing a little. Or maybe that is my than you could shake a mouse at. I know what you are thinking. Bishop Kicanas might be cell phone. Or my grandson's iPod. That's maybe why he doesn't exactly spread around his e- onto something. I do have to admit that reading the bishop's Hey, ringing ears are ringing ears. Morris mail address. OK, that is a lie. He has already done that. It's blog during the world Synod of Bishops on the Bible made This latest inception can be laid directly at [email protected]. Or, if you'd like it in Italian: it feel like you really did understand what was going on. It the doorstep of the vice president of the United States [email protected]. was like being there and a lot more "real" than Associated Conference of Catholic Bishops, Tucson's very own Bishop I cannot wrap my head around the concept of how much Press stories. Gerald F. Kicanas. spam he must receive. It does raise fears, though, of an epidemic of Yep. You will not believe this. Bishop Kicanas has actual- But a blog? Technonewness-itis. ly advocated that Pope Benedict XVI consider doing a blog. Blogs are a kind of back door. So pretend the church is a I wonder if "House" could do an episode on it. For the seven of you out there who are not up to speed on mongo (aka really, really big) mansion sort of like the blogs, bless you and keep you. I only know that they Hearst Castle only with cheaper tickets. Most people stand

Bill & Monica Dodds Ten things to do before Easter Sunday By Bill and Monica Dodds es. About, time and again, deciding to do Web sites offer directions, including www. Catholic News Service something more or not to do something you italiansrus.com/palms/palmpatterns.htm. customarily like to do. 6. Post a prayer request list on the refrig- It can be hard when Lent seems like And Lent is about focusing. It's looking erator. It's an easy way to remind yourself something added to your to-do list (or a lot at what really matters and trimming away that "I'll pray for you" is a promise that of somethings!). If you're a parent, your what doesn't. matters. It's an easy way to teach your chil- everyday list is long. If you'd like some ideas of what you can dren how to become people who make So what do you bump do from Ash Wednesday through Holy those promises. or put on hold or admit Saturday, here are some suggestions: 7. Learn a new recipe for fish. All those to yourself you're never 1. Donate to the local food bank. These meatless Fridays offer the family a chance going to accomplish wonderful organizations have been under a to try something new. A vegetarian menu until the kids grow up lot of stress lately as they try to help more could be a good choice. In either case, in and move away? and more families. Can't get over there with keeping with the spirit of Lent, keep it sim- On the other hand, if a bag of groceries? Send a check. Or go ple. you don't bump, put or online. Many have ways to donate that way 8. Ask forgiveness from someone you've admit, then Lent can be too. hurt. Forgive someone who has hurt you. like any other time of Monica and Bill 2. As a family, read one complete Gospel. What a difference either can make. the year, and that would Dodds Yes, the first three (Matthew, Mark and 9. Thank God for the gifts of faith, hope be a shame. Not "shame Luke) are similar -- synoptic -- but each of and love. on you," but a shame your family -- and them and John is unique. 10. Hug your children and kiss your you -- missed this opportunity. 3. Quit smoking. Yikes, that's a hard one, spouse! It's good for your children to know, it's isn't it? A true sacrifice. Not a smoker? On the Web: Find Your Local Food Bank good for their parents to remember, that Pray for those who are quitting. Pray for Feeding America (formerly known as sacrificing is possible. More than a few those who are suffering health problems America's Second Harvest) has made it ANSWERS families, no doubt including some in your related to smoking. (Looking for help? A easy to find your local food bank. Just type 1. Abram, parish, are already making a number of sac- few years ago Bill wrote "1440 Reasons to in your ZIP code at 2. Sarai, rifice this Lent and beyond because of cur- Quit Smoking: One for Every Minute of www.feedingamerica.org. Another way is 3. Ishmael, rent economic conditions. They're cutting the Day.") to call your parish or local St. Vincent de 4. Sodom, 4. Get to at least one weekday Mass Paul Society. 5. Isaac, way back and doing without because they 6. Hagar. have no other choice. every week. Next: Elder Care: Preventing Slips and Lent is about choice. About many choic- 5. Learn to weave palms. A number of Falls The Angelus MARCH 2009 Page 15 JUST 4 KIDS God tells Abraham to sacrifice his son

Abraham and his wife, Sarai, had not "Yes, son," Abraham replied. had any children until they were very old. "Here are the fire and the wood, but When Sarai finally presented Abraham with where is the sheep for the holocaust?" her son by a miracle from God, they called Very softly Abraham said, "Son, God the boy Isaac. Then one day, God called himself will provide the sheep for the holo- Abraham by name. caust." Then he continued walking on with "Ready!" Abraham answered. Isaac in silence. "Take your son Isaac," God told him, When they arrived at their destination "your only one, whom you love, and go to Abraham built an altar and piled the wood the land of Moriah. There you shall offer for the fire. Then he tied up Isaac and put BIBLE ACCENT KIDS' CLUB him up as a holocaust on a height that I him on top of the wood and raised his knife Abraham is one of the most important Share your thoughts on this week's Bible men in our religious heritage. God prom- story with family and friends by writing an will point out to you." over his head. ised him that he would become "the father essay in response to this question: Abraham was heartbroken by what God Suddenly a messenger from God of a host of nations." Abraham always What might have happened if Abraham had asked him to do, but he obeyed. appeared and called out, "Abraham, trusted God, even when he did not under- refused to obey God? Before the sun had barely risen into the Abraham!" stand why God asked him to do certain sky the next morning, Abraham called two "Yes, Lord." things. Abraham obeyed God, even when PUZZLE he thought he would have to kill his own Using the Book of Genesis as a guide, of his servants and he loaded his donkey. "Do not lay your hand on the boy," said son. circle the words that answer the following And he took Isaac with him. the messenger. "Do not do the least thing The Book of Hebrews tells us, "By faith questions. Chapter numbers are provided After traveling for three days, Abraham to him. I know now how devoted you are to Abraham, when put to the test, offered up as hints: saw the place where God had told him to God, since you did not withhold from me Isaac." 1. What was Abraham's name before The first verse of the Gospel of Matthew God changed it? (12) Hammel, Abram go. He stopped and told his servants, your own beloved son." makes another important statement about 2. Who was Abraham's wife? (12) Sarai, "Both of you stay here with the donkey, Abraham breathed a sigh of relief and Abraham when it says, "Jesus Christ, the Esther while the boy and I go on over yonder. We lowered his knife. Immediately he saw a son of David, the son of Abraham." The 3. What was the name of Abraham's first will worship and then come back to you." ram that had gotten its horns caught in a earthly lineage of Jesus can be traced son? (16) Ishmael, Lot back all the way to Abraham. 4. What was one of the cities God Abraham took the wood the donkey had tangle of bushes. Abraham set his son free The Apostle Paul tells us that God destroyed? (19) Sodom, Babylon carried that was for the fire to burn the and used the ram for the holocaust. Then rewarded Abraham for his faithfulness: 5. What was the name of Sarai's son? offering and gave it to Isaac to carry. he named the place Yahweh-yireh, which "Abraham believed God, and it was credit- (21) Armand, Isaac Abraham carried a knife and a torch to light means, "On the mountain the Lord will ed to him as righteousness." 6. Who was Ishmael's mother? (25) Hannah, Hagar the fire. see." Along the way, Isaac asked, "Father!" Is Facebook a friend or foe to real communities?

By Therese J. Borchard successful New York Times journalists had. contributed to friendships, not stolen from them. Catholic News Service Facebook may have started as an online gathering place for "The constant stream of data is a digital form of closeness," college and high school kids, but if you throw out the term at writes the Time magazine author. It's a way of catching up on Let me utter my full disclosure upfront: I spend way too a dinner party like I did the other day you'll immediately learn the details of a person's life so that when you do get together much time on the social networking site Facebook, and there that half of your friends and their friends have profiles on the in person, you don't have to go through all the introductory is a very real possibility that I'm addicted to site and have already joined a handful of groups and "causes." stuff. You can get to the guts right away. it. In fact, I'm developing my own 12-step No one is too old for this online community. In fact, lately For example, if I run into a Facebook friend when I pick up program to manage this behavior in case my most of my friend requests have come from the parents of David from school, I can ask her about the tennis tournament friends of mine. friends and family decide to do an interven- she described as part of her "status" ("What are you doing tion on me. You know, when they simultane- But does my time at the computer contribute to what Lisa right now?"), instead of starting at "What are you up to?" And ously confront me on how my addiction is Davis calls "Facebook recluse syndrome" -- a hermit type of affecting them. existence? at a happy hour last week with some mom friends, one of Recently Time magazine's Lisa Selin Davis I don't think so. I agree with her subtle supposition at the them, a Facebook friend, said, "So you're trying to write a asked the question I've been posing to myself end of her Time piece that my Facebook time enhances my book in an hour. ...Good luck with that!" ever since the day I set up my profile on the Borchard relationships. That is, if I can practice good enough personal What would we have talked about in a non-Facebook site: Does Facebook replace face time or boundaries that I'm not "poking" (a Facebook term) friends world? Possibly the same thing, but this social networking site enhance it? and writing all day to former classmates I haven't connected facilitated the conversation in a way that I suspect might con- I have been pondering that question during the six weeks since with since my Girl Scout days so much that I'm ducking out tribute to our community-building efforts today, that might I "friended" my first person, back before I got click-happy on a of helping David with his homework. actually help us in the pursuit of intimacy. mission to have at least 500 friends because that's how many the For Davis and others mentioned in the article, Facebook has Page 16 MARCH 2009 The Angelus

Our Holy Father’s Monthly Intentions 2009

March General: That the role of women may be more appreciated and used to good advantage in every country in the world.

Mission: That in the light of the letter addressed to them by Pope Benedict XVI, the Bishops, priests, consecrated persons, and lay faithful of the Catholic Church in the People’s Republic of China may com- mit themselves to being the sign and instrument of unity, communion and peace.

April General: That the Lord may bless the farm- ers with an abundant harvest and sensitize Wall’s Knights of Columbus Council brought down enough trees for 20 loads of cut brush at the Christ The King Retreat Center in February. the richer populations to the drama of hunger in the world

Mission: That the Christians who work in KC: 15 men, 20 loads of cut brush, five hours areas where the conditions of the poor, the weak and the women and children are most (From 1) jackets and no one was stung. After being was a simple meal of hamburger and fries. tragic, may be signs of hope, thanks to their courageous testimony to the Gospel of soli- awakened rudely from its morning nap, a Bishop Pfeifer came and thanked the darity and love. San Angelo, did much of the supervision, raccoon, resting peacefully in the hollow Knights for their kindness and generosity. determining which trees needed to be end at the top of a tree, scampered away He was impressed by how much was Daily Offering Prayer removed and which limbs needed to be to the safety of the river. Throughout the accomplished by these few men in only O Jesus, through the Immaculate Heart day, Paul would scoot from tree to tree, five hours. He told them that they trimmed. Work began at 8 a.m. and con- of Mary I offer you my prayers, works, cluded (miraculously) at 1:30 p.m. Daryl raising the “bucket” with a Knight and his improved the Retreat Center grounds in a joys and sufferings of this day in union Schniers donated his John Deere 310E chainsaw. Tree limbs fell continuously to “magnificent way.” front-end loader and backhoe. Paul Jost the ground and the Knights would carry Many more trees and tall grass located with the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was its masterful driver. The dead trees them to an awaiting trailer. away from the river walkway need to be throughout the world. I offer them for all were so brittle that Paul would push them When the dust cleared, seven trailer trimmed. If there is another Council of the intentions of Your Sacred Heart: the over with the tractor, snapping them at the loads of timber were taken from the prop- the Knights of Columbus that would like salvation of souls, reparation for sin and base. One tree was filled with a hive of erty and dumped into a nearby pit…free to donate their time and talent to beautify the reunion of all Christians. bees that were inhibited from flying of charge. This work would have cost our Concho River location, please contact I offer them for the intentions of our because of the cold weather. Wasp and thousands of dollars had a private compa- Mr. Tom Burke, Director of Christ the bishops and of all Apostles of Prayer, hornet spray killed them and no one was ny been contracted. All the Knights were King Retreat Center at (325) 651-7500. and in particular for those recommend- stung. Another tree was home to yellow given for their hard work and generosity ed by our Holy Father this month.

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Hours -- MWF -- 2:00-5:00 [email protected] Sat. -- 12:00-5:00 The Angelus MARCH 2009 Page 17 INDULGENCES: By its nature, all sin causes suffering (From 4) By its very nature, every sin inevitably comes, serenely facing death, the Christian dence of being heard by the Father when—in causes suffering for the one who has commit- must strive to accept this temporal punish- view of Christ’s merits and, by his gift, those comes from the Catechism of the Catholic ted it. Every sinful act creates a disorder with- ment of sin as a grace.”(58) The necessary of Our Lady and the saints—she asks him to Church and the teaching of recent Popes. in the soul of the human person; it distorts and painful process that brings restoration and mitigate or cancel the painful aspect of pun- our desires and affections, leaving us with “an purification can take place either in this life or ishment by fostering its medicinal aspect What are indulgences? unhealthy attachment to creatures, which must in Purgatory, as whatever part of the process through other channels of grace.”(60) An indulgence does not confer grace. An be purified either here on earth, or after death remains unfinished at death must be complet- Excerpts from Popular Devotional Practices: indulgence is not a remission of the guilt due in the state called Purgatory.(57) ed in Purgatory. (59) Basic Questions and Answers Copyright © to sin. The guilt due to sin is ordinarily taken Furthermore, sin disrupts one’s relationships Through an indulgence, God grants the 2003, United States Conference of Catholic away by the Sacraments of Baptism and with God, with the Church, with other people, prayer of the Church that the temporal penalty Bishops, Inc., Washington, D.C. All rights and with the world as a whole. The commun- Penance(confession), in which we receive for- for sin due to someone be reduced (or possi- reserved. Reprinted with permission. No part giveness for sins through Jesus Christ. ion intended by God is damaged or lost. bly eliminated). By God’s grace, participation of this work may be reproduced or transmit- Although guilt is taken away, and with it the Those who have received forgiveness for their in a prayer or action that has an indulgence eternal penalty that is due to sin—namely, sins still have an obligation to undergo a diffi- ted in any form or by any means, electronic or attached to it brings about the necessary mechanical, including photocopying, record- damnation, the eternal loss of the presence of cult and painful process (the temporal penal- restoration and reparation without the suffer- God—there remain consequences for sins that ty for sin) to be purified of the consequences ing, or by any information storage and ing that would normally accompany it. The retrieval system, without permission in writ- those who have committed them must bear. of their sins and to restore the disrupted rela- granting of an indulgence by the Church is tionships. “While patiently bearing sufferings ing from the copyright holder. There is what is traditionally called the tem- “the expression of the Church’s full confi- poral punishment for sin. and trials of all kinds and, when the day OBISPO (Para 3) por medio de compartir nuestros dones con den la gracia de Dios entrar en nuestros  Entregarnos—Necesitamos entregar- nuestros hermanos y hermanas que tienen corazones. nos—desgarrar nuestros corazones—a los Dios pueda tocarlos con ternura, compasión menos que nosotros. El lugar de comenzar  Dar a otros—Desgarramos nuestros impulsos del Espíritu Santo. Tenemos que y perdón. es con nuestras propias familias y amigos, y corazones por medio de dar y compartir cedernos a la gracia de Dios. A la medida que La temporada de Cuaresma es un tiempo luego con la comunidad en general. En nuestros bienes con esos que tienen menos damos a Dios, en la misma medida encon- para ayunar por medio de dejar el egoísmo. todas nuestras comunidades, hay mucha, que nosotros. En dar a otros cosas materi- traremos nuestra paz y nuestra verdadera feli- Este es un tiempo de tomar una nueva actitud mucha gente que carece de las necesidades ales, nosotros, a su vez, crecemos y recibi- cidad en esta vida, y esto nos prepara para de amor y compasión por medio de dejar el básicas de la vida, quien necesita nuestra mos nuevas bendiciones espirituales en nue- recibir los muchos dones maravillosos que chisme, dejar la actitud crítica, dejar el sarcas- caridad y compasión. ¿Quiénes son estas stros corazones. Damos a otros, comparti- Dios quiere compartir con nosotros al mo, y dejar el deseo de siempre estar correcto. personas? Búsquenlas. mos con otros, y a su vez somos enriqueci- prepararnos para la resurrección de Cristo La jornada de la Cuaresma también es un El rajar de nuestros corazones como nos dos con la gracia de Dios. Jesús. tiempo para dedicarnos más a la oración, recomienda el Profeta Joel puede ser dele-  Dar a Dios—Primeramente, necesitamos Que su jornada de Cuaresma los dirija a primeramente por medio de ser fieles en treado en una manera práctica en el sigu- dar nuestro tiempo a nuestro Dios y dar gra- una transformación y a un nuevo aprecio de tomar parte en la celebración de la iente Plan de dar en la Cuaresma: cias a Cristo por todo lo que ha hecho para todo lo que Cristo hizo por nosotros por Eucaristía, la celebración del Sacramento de  Renunciar—las actitudes, las palabras, traernos el amor de Dios y la salvación. medio de su sufrimiento y por medio de Reconciliación, compartiendo en la las maneras de actuar que no están de acuer- Necesitamos darle el primer lugar a Cristo haber dado Su vida por nosotros en la cruz. Adoración Eucarística, y por medio de pasar do con el Evangelio de Cristo. Para ayu- en nuestra vida por medio de organizar La Cuaresma termina con la muerte de más tiempo con nuestra familia en oración. darnos a crecer en la gracia de Dios, es nuestras prioridades, para ver si están de Cristo en la cruz y nos prepara para la gran La Cuaresma también es una ocasión para bueno de renunciar ciertas cosas materiales, acuerdo con las normas de Dios. fiesta del cristianismo, Su Resurrección— hacer más obras de caridad, especialmente comidas y bebidas, pero sobretodo, debemos Necesitamos dar más tiempo a leer la Biblia, nueva vida, gozo y esperanza. de renunciar actitudes y practicas que impi- oración familiar, y a reconciliación. PILL: God’s love does not differ between unborn, aged (From 4) Phase.” He noted how sacred scripture shows have taken place in this manner, albeit The answer to the Plan B disaster, as well as God’s love for every human being even before unknowingly, is absolutely staggering. the contraceptive mentality as a whole, is the The proof is evident in the biological facts. he has been formed in his mother’s womb, and The FDA decision about “Plan B” does not message of chastity. By making Plan B avail- From the moment of fertilization we are in the points out: settle moral dilemmas, but rather creates more able over the counter, the FDA, Barr presence of a new, independent, individualized God’s love does not differentiate between questions than it answers. Plan B may not end Pharmaceuticals, and the promoters of the being which develops in continuous fashion. the newly conceived infant still in his or her a pregnancy according to some people’s novel drug are telling our young people that sexual There is no moment which is less necessary mother’s womb and the child or young person, definitions, but it always has the potential to self-control is not possible. than another, and each stage is strictly depend- or the adult and the elderly person. God does end the fragile new life of one of our youngest The Church commissions young people to ent upon the stage which precedes it and not distinguish between them because He sees brothers and sisters growing beneath his or her live for the Gospel in the reception of the which determines it. [From the Pontifical an impression of His own image and likeness mother’s heart. sacrament of confirmation. One of the great in each one. Council for Life—“The Embryo: A sign of If we really want to do everything possible to fruits of the Holy Spirit through this sacrament Contradiction”] The evidence that birth control pills some- prevent women from being hurt by the morning- is chastity. Through prayer, the fulfillment of Church teaching affirms the significance of times act as abortifacients, and that emergency after pill, we ought to prevent it from becoming this great gift—a hope-filled message of the dignity of the human person in the earliest contraceptives have a similar and even available over-the-counter, so that patients stages of existence. In February 2006, Pope stronger effect, leads us to conclude that, with redemption from the culture of death—is cer- unaware of its dangers, both medical and moral, tainly possible. Benedict XVI addressed the topic of “The the widespread use of contraception in our are not encouraged by society to use it. Human Embryo in the Pre-implantation society, the potential number of abortions that Page 18 MARCH 2009 The Angelus PADRE TAD BISHOP: Following a Lenten plan this year (From 2) Give Away – We rend our hearts by giving and (Para 6) sharing our goods with those who have less than we always wanting to be right. do. As we give away material things, we in turn optando por la esterilización directa. De igual manera, cuando a un The Lenten journey is also a time to dedicate our- grow and receive new spiritual blessings in our hombre le preocupa el riesgo de transmitir a sus futuros hijos un gen selves to more prayer, first and foremost by being hearts. We give away, we share with others, and in defectuoso y para evitarlo opta por la vasectomía, está optando también faithful to taking part in the celebration of the turn we are enriched by God’s grace. por la esterilización directa. Este tipo de esterilización es moralmente Eucharist. Then we also need to make time for the Give To – First and foremost, we need to give inaceptable ya que implica la decisión de mutilar, directamente y con celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, our time to our God and to thank Christ for all he fines anticonceptivos, un sistema sano del cuerpo que funciona normal y sharing in Eucharistic Adoration, and spending has done to bring us God’s love and salvation. We saludablemente. Violaciones como estas son comunes hoy en día. Se more time in prayer with our families. need to give Christ first place in our life by organiz- estima que en Estados Unidos unas 700,000 mujeres al año se someten a Lent is also the occasion to perform more works ing our priorities, to see if they are in accord with la ligadura de trompas falopianas y 600,000 hombres se practican of charity, especially by sharing our gifts with our God’s standards. We need to give more time to vasectomías. brothers and sisters who have less than we do. The reading the Bible, to family prayer, to reconciliation. Ni la vasectomía ni la ligadura de trompas tratan ninguna enfermedad place to begin is with our own families and friends, Give In – We need to give in—rend our hearts-- o patología existentes. Cuando una mujer se liga para quedar infértil, lo and then with the wider community. In all of our to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. We need to que está decidiendo es lesionar una importante facultad de su cuerpo communities, there are many, many people who yield to God’s grace. The more we give in to God, porque ella y/o su esposo no desean practicar la abstinencia en ciertos lack the basic necessities of life, and who need our the more we find our peace and our true happiness períodos y así evitar un embarazo potencialmente peligroso. Una charity and our compassion. Who are these people? in this life, and this prepares us to receive the many ligadura en estas circunstancias no sería, de hecho, por razones médicas Seek them out. wonderful gifts that our God wants to share with us sino por razones de conveniencia conyugal. Tenemos el deber de The rending of our hearts as recommended by the as we prepare for the resurrection of Jesus Christ. respetar la integridad y totalidad de nuestros cuerpos, y cortar los Prophet Joel can be spelled out in a practical way May your Lenten journey lead you to transforma- conductos uterinos sanos de una mujer nunca será una decisión médica the following Lenten Giving Plan: tion and to a new appreciation of all that Christ did moralmente defendible. Give Up – attitudes, words, ways of acting that for us by His suffering and by giving His life for us Uno de los errores clave detrás de la decisión de esterilizarse are not in accord with the Gospel of Christ. To help on the cross. Lent ends with the death of Christ on quirúrgicamente es la creencia de que tanto hombres como mujeres son us grow in God’s grace, it is good to give up certain the cross and prepares us for the greatest feast of incapaces de controlar o dominar sus impulsos sexuales. Al parecer material things, food and drinks, but most of all, we Christianity, His Resurrection—new life, joy and muchas personas han renunciado a practicar el autocontrol en lo should give up attitudes and practices that block hope. referente a la sexualidad. Si bien es cierto que no se puede sobrevivir God’s grace from coming into our hearts. sin agua o sin alimento, es falso asumir, como al parecer nuestra cultura lo asume, que no podemos sobrevivir sin gratificación sexual. El sexo no es necesario para la sobrevivencia individual ni tampoco VOGEL indispensable para una vida personal saludable y plena. Tratándose de (From 3) una persona soltera, de hecho, una vida sana y completa dependerá del but the people of St. Stephen's considered him to ordenamiento de sus facultades sexuales mediante la autodisciplina de la be no less than a holy man bringing great blessings abstinencia y del crecimiento en las virtudes. Esto también aplica en el Bridges urged Fr. Vogel to continue his pastoral to the parish by simply spending, his last years in matrimonio, donde los esposos deben esforzarse por lograr la disciplina ministry among the people of St. Stephen. He their midst. de la continencia sexual en determinadas circunstancias, lo cual hace que began, spending half of his time helping priest Fr. Vogel is survived by his sister Virginia- la relación matrimonial madure y florezca. De hecho, algunas situaciones friends in Brooklyn and the other half at St. Kathryn Doherty who resides in Fairfield, Conn. obligan a poner en práctica esta disciplina, por ejemplo por actividad Stephen's. Father's traditional and deeply conser- His rosary service was at St. Stephen Church, militar, por razones de trabajo o por enfermedades crónicas o agudas. vative values as well as his primary focus on the Midland, on Feb. 12. His funeral Mass was cele- Siempre que haya motivos legítimos para evitar un embarazo, como Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and the Mother of Jesus brated at St. Stephen's on Feb. 13, Bishop Michael cuando hay riesgo serio para la vida de la madre o la del bebé, los fit the people of St. Stephen's very well. He was a Pfeifer officiating. There was also a memorial matrimonios pueden practicar la autodisciplina y recurrir únicamente a strong advocate for the unborn. Father loved fish- Mass and final interment in the Diocese of los medios que respetan tanto el don de su sexualidad como el de su ing and boating. Three years ago Father suffered a Brooklyn, NY. respectiva masculinidad y feminidad. Esto implica la abstinencia disabling stroke. This limited his ministry greatly May he rest in peace. durante los períodos fértiles del ciclo femenino para evitar el embarazo. En las últimas décadas los métodos naturales de planificación familiar se HEMRICK: han ido sofisticando para determinar con precisión el momento en que Hard times can bring success la mujer es fértil. Los datos que se obtienen con estos métodos ayudan a (From 8) Numerous examples exist of doctors, nurses, los matrimonios para que sus relaciones sexuales sean sólo en los lawyers and accountants providing pro bono serv- períodos infértiles y practicar la abstinencia durante los períodos fértiles, tunity to live God's life more fully. For those of us ices that have saved people from destitution and cuando existen razones serias que lo justifiquen. Al respetar de esta who enjoy an abundance of life, it is expedient for health care to help them maintain fitness. Heart- forma la sexualidad conyugal y negarse a lesionar las facultades sexuales us to open our hearts and share our resources with wrenching stories abound of people finding ways con vasectomías o ligaduras, se promueven virtudes personales muy those experiencing difficult times. In this way we of providing an education for young men and importantes dentro del matrimonio a la vez que se respeta el diseño de will mirror a loving, giving Christ. women. nuestro cuerpo, regalo de Dios para dar vida. Our history is filled with success stories of Although no one likes bad times, they can result El Padre Tadeusz Pacholczyk hizo su doctorado en neurociencias en la Christlike neighbors pulling together to assist in astonishing success stories because of the Universidad de Yale y su trabajo post-doctoral en la Universidad de those in need. Examples abound of people sharing Christlike spirit behind them. Harvard. Es Sacerdote para la Diócesis de Fall River, Massachusetts, y unused space with those needing a roof over their Presently we are being challenged to share our se desempeña como Director de Educación en el Centro Nacional heads. Co-opts and food pantries have been creat- blessings with our neighbors, to do everything in Católico de Bioética en Philadelphia. The National Catholic Bioethics ed to stave off hunger. To cut costs, neighbors our power to help them maintain a dignified life. Center: www.ncbcenter.org Traducción: María Elena Rodríguez have helped with repairs and practical advice on how to make ends meet. The Angelus MARCH 2009 Page 19 FAST: Going without, pope says, a way Q&A: Many Catholics have no idea how for believers to humbly submit to God uncertain, confused non-Catholics can be (From 10) God,” he said. feel comfortable doing so and if your “Freely chosen detachment from the (From 11) actions reflect your interior attitude of pare for the Easter celebration of Jesus’ pleasure of food and other material goods prayer and devotion with the people wor- victory over sin and death. helps the disciple of Christ to control the A. It’s not at all trivial. My mail regu- shiping alongside you. Focusing his message specifically on appetites of nature, weakened by original larly brings the same questions from oth- It would perhaps not be a bad idea for the practice of fasting, the pope said it is sin,” the pope wrote. ers like yourselves. parishes to place an occasional note in the a way for believers to submit themselves At the same time, he said, “fasting is an Most Catholics, it seems to me, have no bulletin on these matters to put you and “humbly to God, trusting in his goodness aid to open our eyes to the situation in idea how uncertain and confused those not others like you more at ease. and mercy.” which so many of our brothers and sisters of our faith can be about how to act at “Denying material food, which nourish- live.” Mass and other ceremonies, even after (A free brochure on ecumenism, includ- es our body, nurtures an interior disposi- By fasting in solidarity with the poor, years of being there week after week. ing questions on intercommunion and tion to listen to Christ and be fed by his “freely embracing an act of self-denial for The short and simple answer is that peo- other ways of sharing worship, is avail- saving word,” the pope wrote. the sake of another, we make a statement ple who are not Catholic are welcome, able by sending a stamped, self-addressed “Through fasting and prayer we allow that our brother or sister in need is not a even invited, to do everything Catholics envelope to Father John Dietzen, Box him to come and satisfy the deepest stranger,” the pope said. do, except, as you say, receive 3315, Peoria, IL 61612. hunger that we experience in the depths - - - Communion. Participate in the prayers, of our being: the hunger and thirst for Editor’s Note: The text of the pope’s sing, make the sign of the cross, bow or (Questions may be sent to Father God,” he said. message in English, Spanish and other genuflect as you wish. Dietzen at the same address, or e-mail: While some people fast to cleanse their languages is posted online at: In fact, the liturgy should become a [email protected].) body or to lose weight, Christians fast http://212.77.1.245/news_services/bulletin more genuine act of worship for you if during Lent in order “to heal all that pre- /news/23311.php?index=23311&lang=en. you participate in this way, as long as you vents them from conformity to the will of CREIGHTON: Book contains ideal content for Lenten prayer group (From 11) However, the online ministry isn’t a sub- instructional guide for members of their of Lent intrigued him. stitute for Mass, Father Alexander said. congregation, the company has sent every “I like the idea,” he said. “This is the ings meant to her during her time over- “It’s not replacing church,” he said. “This parish in the country a complimentary copy kind of tool that I think would be valuable seas,” Waldron told Catholic News Service. is spirituality online. It helps people along with inexpensive order deals, she for our parishioners. I am always looking “That’s when it occurred to us, ‘We’re not strengthen their relationship with God when said. for tools to help Catholics really understand just a campus ministry. We’re reaching out they are not in church.” “This would be ideal for a prayer group, Lent.” globally.’” Since they were hearing from people or a special Lenten instruction group,” A second book containing information As they added faculty and staff to their from Saudi Arabia to Siberia, Father Halm said. from Creighton University’s online ministry roster of daily reflection writers, they also Alexander and Waldron translated some of Msgr. Damien Nalepa, pastor of St. site, which can be found at started hearing from more people from all the retreats into Spanish, Japanese and Gregory the Great in Baltimore, received www.creighton.edu/CollaborativeMinistry/o corners of the planet. Russian. his copy during Advent and decided to read nline.html, is planned for the near future, “We started to realize two things,” Father “Loyola Press started watching our num- it sometime in January. However, the idea most likely as a guide for Advent, Halm Alexander said. “People were very hungry bers, and even though they said they had of a book to help guide members of his said. for spiritual guidance, and the World Wide never published anything that had already congregation through the practical aspects Web is a very powerful tool.” been available for free, the numbers were With little technical savvy or computer staggering,” Father Alexander said. “They CALDAROLA training 10 years ago, Father Alexander, asked us if they could put our online : Be careful what you love now 60, and Waldron, now 55, learned the retreats in books, so that people can have (From 10) share? What great gifts do I bring to this ins and outs of Web-site design and maneu- them in hand.” day? How excited am I to share this One vering using the trial-and-error method. The book will be handy for people who ground” I’m active and engaged all day, with whom I’ve fallen in love? And what Over the years they have added online are traveling without Internet access, or for but I can see how the chilly darkness wonderful gifts and surprises will the day translations of spiritual exercises from St. those who just haven’t embraced the new tempts me to be less productive than I offer me? Ignatius, established interactive retreats, technology, said Michelle Halm, a Loyola should be. My friend’s message almost seems like posted Lenten recipes, installed audio Press spokeswoman. The late Jesuit Father Pedro Arrupe the upside-down version of that. It’s amus- downloads, provided Advent instructions “We saw how the retreat on Lent inspired wrote a beautiful prayer which began, ing to think of the devil actually not want- for Catholics, given advice for dealing with so many people to sign onto their Web “Nothing is more practical than finding ing me to get up, because I have so much grief and created a weekly guide for daily site,” Halm said. “We thought it would be God, that is, falling in love in a quite goodness to bring to the day. Imagine how prayer, Father Alexander said. great to put that information into a book to absolute final way.” I might, by my good cheer, prayer and “People kept saying they were too busy reach even a broader audience. It’s very He went on to pray that what you are in compassion, thwart some nasty, evil plan. to pray,” he said. “So this reviews all of the practical and hands-on. It even has recipes love with “will decide what will get you My Lenten goal is to make sure I get up readings of the week and instructs people and (information on) how to make the most out of bed in the morning.” early and “hit the ground” with as much how to practice their faith. For lack of a of Lent. We wanted to get it into more I need to think about that prayer, espe- enthusiasm as I can muster. And I’ll laugh better phrase, it’s religion for the busy per- hands.” cially on mornings when I don’t feel like when I imagine that old devil saying, “Oh, son.” Since Loyola Press would also like to see getting out of bed at all. What do I have to crap, she’s up!” pastors all over the U.S. use this book as an Page 20 MARCH 2009 The Angelus

The West Texas Angelus Official Newspaper of the Diocese of San Angelo, Texas Great Cathedrals of POSTMASTER: Send all address changes to: WEST TEXAS ANGELUS P.O. Box 1829 SAN ANGELO, TX 76902-1829 America ______

Bishop Michael D. Pfeifer, OMI Publisher

Jimmy Patterson Director of Communications Editor

Member Catholic News Service Catholic Press Association Texas Catholic News

Published the first Monday following the 1st Saturday of each month and Editor’s Note delivered to all registered parish- ioners in the San Angelo Diocese. Photos on this page were Subscription rate for all others: taken one $10 per year month before a costly fire hit THIRD CLASS POSTAGE PAID AT the Holy Name SAN ANGELO, TEXAS Cathedral in Chicago. Printed by the Firefighters are San Angelo Standard Times seen atop the cathedral’s roof A Scripps-Howard Company at right. Submissions: Story suggestions, calendar items, parish briefs and all other submissions should be emailed to Another great American city, [email protected]. COPY, PHOTO DEADLINE: another historic place of worship Third Friday of every month. My family and I have been blessed to Photos should be in jpeg format. visit some of the most beautiful cathe- drals in America in the last year. New Letters to the editor are welcome, York’s St. Patrick’s and all its history and and should be emailed to beauty, the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C., in what [email protected]. most certainly may be the single most Letters to the editor are printed at visually impressive Catholic Cathedral in the discretion of the editor and iden- the country, and the four cathedrals with- tities of the writer are subject to in walking distance in San Antonio, verification. Please include name, steeped in rich Hispanic heritage. address and phone number when Recently we had the opportunity to step submitting letters. inside the recently-renovated Holy Name Cathedral in downtown Chicago, home to a huge Catholic population. With archi- tectural similarities to St. Patrick’s, Holy Above, a shot of the inside of Holy Name Cathedral from just Name looked like a revamped and updat- inside the main entrance. Top, the outside of Holy Name with the ed version of the famed St. Patricks, and it was interesting to see the contrast in Sears Tower just to the right of the steeple; top right, a beautiful the exterior architecture of the cathedral crucifix and seasonal foliage adorned the altar area of Holy Name with the Sears Tower rising in the back- and at right, the ambo, where the gospel is presented. ground (above left photo). -- Jimmy Patterson