Columbia May 2009

IN SERVICE TO ONE. IN SERVICE TO ALL.

MAY 2009

COLUMBIA

●

MAY 2009

●

VOLUME 89

●

NUMBER 5

IN THIS ISSUE OPENING ODE 2 The Year of the Priest

BY ALTON J. PELOWSKI

Construction of the Pontifical North American College’s current campus on Rome’s Janiculum Hill was completed in 1953.

BUILDING A BETTER WORLD 3 In a direct attack on Church authority, some Connecticut legislators ignored the essence of religious liberty.

BY SUPREME KNIGHT CARL A. ANDERSON

LEARNING THE FAITH, LIVING THE FAITH 4 The Third Person of the Holy Trinity is the “driving force” of the Church’s life.

BY SUPREME CHAPLAIN BISHOP WILLIAM E. LORI

PLUS Catholic Man of the Month, the Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions, Your Spiritual Action Plan and more

CHECKUP

9

‘Your Servants are Listening’ The Pontifical North American College in Rome celebrates 150 years of excellence. BY JOHN MALLON AND COLUMBIA STAFF

8 When we face the facts about raising children, parents deserve recognition.

BY JOHN R. INGRISANO

FATHERS FOR GOOD 14 A priest and a religious sister reflect on the role their fathers have played.

BY FATHER RYAN MORAVITZ AND SISTER SUSAN MARIE NORTON

A special series of articles in anticipation of the Jubilee Year of the Priest, which will begin June 19

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE 24 The splendor of truth in the mantle and stars of Our Lady of Guadalupe

PASSING ON A LEGACY A beloved priest and Knight bequeathed his estate to his council and to the Church. BY ED BECKLEY...........................................15 PREACHING THE WORD The first deaf priest in the United States founded a community to minister to the hard of hearing.

BY SISTER LOU ELLA HICKMAN ....................................................................16 THE FATHER McGIVNEY HOUSE Thanks to faithful Knights and priests, young men have a place to discern God’s call. BY BOB HORNING ........................18 HELPING PRIESTS IN NEED Opus Bono Sacerdotii promotes the priesthood and stands by those who have lost everything. BY DAN VALENTI .............20

ALSO FEATURED

AIDS, Africa and Pope Benedict The media missed the pope’s message in Africa.

BY SUPREME KNIGHT CARL A. ANDERSON .................................................22

BY MSGR. EDUARDO CHÁVEZ SÁNCHEZ

KNIGHTS

OF

COLUMBUS NEWS

Connecticut Catholics rally against attack on religious freedom • K of C Museum unveils new exhibit • New supreme advocate appointed • Philippine Knights march for life

6

KNIGHTS

IN

ACTION

25 REPORTS FROM COUNCILS, ASSEMBLIES AND COLUMBIAN SQUIRES CIRCLES

32 COLUMBIANISM BY DEGREES

OPENING ODE

The Year of the Priest t. John Mary Vianney, known as the Curé of Ars, once said, “All the good works in the world are not equal to the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, because they are the works of men, but the Mass is the work of God. Even martyrdom is nothing in comparison, for it is but the sacrifice of man to God, but the Mass is the sacrifice of God for man.”

Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan, who took charge of the Archdiocese of New York last month, repeated these words to seminarians at the Pontifical North American College (NAC) in Rome while he served as rector there from 1994 to 2001. Then-Msgr. Dolan instructed men on essential aspects of Christian virtue and priestly identity, and published his talks in an acclaimed book titled Priests for the Third Millennium (Our Sunday Visitor, 2000). This year, the NAC celebrates its 150th anniversary and continues to form hundreds of men from the heart of the Church with support from the Knights of Columbus (see page 9).

The NAC was founded just months after the death of the Curé of Ars, who was later named the patron saint of parish priests (see page 5). In a March 16 address to members of the Vatican Congregation for the Clergy, Pope Benedict XVI called Vianney “a true example of a pastor at the service of Christ’s flock.” Indeed, the Curé’s priesthood was rooted in the Eucharist and characterized by a deep love for Christ. The centrality of Jesus Christ, the pope said, is vital to the mission of the ministerial priesthood, without which the Eucharist and the Church herself would not exist.

In anticipation of the anniversary of St. John Vianney’s death, Aug. 4, the Holy Father announced a “Year of the Priest” to commence June 19 — the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests.

S

Publisher

Supreme Officers

He explained that the purpose of this special year is “precisely to encourage priests in this striving for spiritual perfection on which, above all, the effectiveness of their ministry depends.” In addition, he asked the congregation to work with bishops and religious superiors to coordinate pastoral initiatives that make “the importance of the priest’s role and mission in the Church and in contemporary society ever more clearly perceived.”

Of course, support for the priesthood is nothing new for the Knights of Columbus. Today, the Order is engaged in a number of vocations efforts, such as the Refund Support Vocations Program (RSVP), by which councils, assemblies and Squires circles provide monetary and moral support to seminarians and postulants preparing for the priesthood or religious life. Likewise, the Father Michael J. McGivney and Bishop Thomas V. Daily scholarship programs have supported hundreds of seminarians since being established in the 1990s.

More than financial support, however, the Knights of Columbus has exemplified a profound appreciation of the priesthood ever since Father Michael J. McGivney, a parish priest, founded the Order in 1882.

Supreme Chaplain Bishop William E. Lori of Bridgeport, Conn., summarized this recently at a special Founder’s Day Mass at the Order’s birthplace, St. Mary’s Church in New Haven. In his homily, Bishop Lori said, “The legacy of Father McGivney shines on in the devoted service of our K of C chaplains, in the solidarity of the Knights of Columbus with priests, and in the prayer and work of the Knights and their families for priestly vocations.”

As we celebrate the Year of the Priest, let us thank the Lord for the gifts of the Church and the Eucharist, and show our gratitude to priests in ever new ways.

Carl A. Anderson

— Alton J. Pelowski, managing editor

your new address and mailing label to:

Supreme Knight’s Book Club - May 28 - 5 PM (ET) Join Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson and Father José Granados online at www.kofc.org for a discussion of their new book, Called to Love: Approaching John Paul II’s Theology of the Body (Doubleday). In an interview that appeared in the April 2009 issue of Columbia, Anderson and Father Granados talked about the significance of the pope’s teaching and why they wrote the book, which was published April 14 and is available at your local bookstore (ISBN: 978-0385527712).

Submit your own questions online and take part in the discussion May 28 at 5 p.m. (ET). To view archived book club discussions, visit www.kofc.org/bookclub.

2

Knights of Columbus

COLUMBIA COVER: CNS PHOTO/NANCY WIECHEC

Supreme Knight

Most Rev. William E. Lori, S.T.D. Supreme Chaplain

Dennis A. Savoie Deputy Supreme Knight

Donald R. Kehoe Supreme Secretary

John “Jack” W. O’Reilly Jr. Supreme Treasurer

John A. Marrella Supreme Advocate

Editorial Alton J. Pelowski, Managing Editor 203-752-4562 alton.pelowski@kofc.org Patrick Scalisi, Associate Editor 203-752-4485 patrick.scalisi@kofc.org

Graphics Arthur F. Hinckley Jr. Art Director

Richard J. Cesare Senior Designer Venerable Michael McGivney (1852-90) — Parish Priest, Protector of Christian Family Life and Founder of the Knights of Columbus, Intercede for Us.

This magazine is recyclable.

Please pass it on.

How to Reach Us MAIL: Columbia, 1 Columbus Plaza New Haven, CT 06510-3326 PHONE: 203-752-4398 FAX: 203-752-4109 E-MAIL: columbia@kofc.org INTERNET: www.kofc.org CUSTOMER SERVICE: 1-800-380-9995 MOVING? Notify your local council. Send Knights of Columbus, Membership Records PO Box 1670, New Haven, CT 06507-0901

On the Cover The Year of the Priest will be observed June 19, 2009 – June 19, 2010.

BUILDING A BETTER WORLD

BY CARL A. ANDERSON, SUPREME KNIGHT

A Direct Attack on the First Amendment In targeting Church authority, some legislators ignored the essence of religious liberty RECENTLY, LEGISLATORS in the inconsistent as trustees force their Constitution State, Connecticut, own understanding of theology on declared war on the First Amendparishes that depend on them ment. The attack was a bill that financially. exclusively targeted the Catholic Some Protestant denominaChurch and would have stripped tions prefer such a model, but the bishops and priests of their ability point is that we must remain free to administer dioceses and parishes. to choose. This is the essence of Raised Bill no. 1098 would have religious liberty. wrested authority over parish While the stated purpose for the affairs from our bishops and priests Connecticut bill was to prevent and instead turned over control to a financial mismanagement of series of elected boards (trustees), parishes, its proponents seemed explicitly excluding bishops and unaware that such mismanagepastors. It was written and rushed ment is rare and is addressed effecbefore committee without even a tively by regulations already in phone call to any of Connecticut’s place. In the end, the bill was both Catholic bishops. unconstitutional and unnecessary.

Of course, the First AmendThis attack was surprising, but ment is clear: “Congress shall not unprecedented. In Connectimake no law respecting an estabcut, Catholics were legally forbidlishment of religion, or prohibiting den from holding public office or the free exercise owning land, even in thereof….” the 19th century.

In the end, Although one in After ratification of four Americans is the bill was both the First Amendment Catholic, the country in 1791, Catholics in still has a very unconstitutional the Constitution State Protestant outlook on and unnecessary. had to wait nearly three certain issues. The decades for religious nature of an apostolic freedom. Even then, church — one in which the bishop attacks continued. Nativists and is essential to its unity — is obviKnow-Nothings often tried to ously not fully appreciated if such a restrict the Catholic Church. law can be proposed.

In 1855, in New York, the The effect of this law would Know-Nothings scored a victory by have been the balkanization of the passing the Putnam Bill, which Catholic Church. Our one, holy, forced trusteeism on the Church catholic and apostolic Church and created serious problems for its would no longer be “apostolic” if administration. It was repealed in bishops were not allowed to over1863, when New York’s need for see their dioceses. And rather than Catholic recruits for the Union being “one” and “catholic,” our Army outweighed its desire to Church could become many and campaign against the Church.

Bill 1098 would have turned the clock back more than 150 years, proving that Catholics must guard against a return of bigotry.

The lesson from the 19th century is that the power to impose structures that grant or take away authority from Church leaders is the power to intimidate and ultimately to destroy.

If a state can ignore the First Amendment and tell the Catholic Church how it must be organized and operated today, it can easily do the same tomorrow to any religion.

Although Bill 1098 was tabled [see article on page 6], it was the second attempt in recent years in Connecticut to attack the Church head on. The first was a bill several years ago that would have eliminated the seal of confession. We can only expect that here, and elsewhere, such attacks — and more subtle ones — are likely.

How ironic that lawmakers from the “Constitution State” proposed this archaic measure. Having introduced the legislation just a week prior, the Judiciary Committee gave the public three business days to consider Bill 1098 and testify on it before a committee hearing.

For legislators from a state that was so slow to implement the First Amendment, these men seem to be in an awful hurry to do away with it.

I want to thank all my brother Knights in Connecticut who worked so hard to defeat this attack on our Church and our religious liberties.

Vivat Jesus!

c o lu m b i a /may 2 0 0 9

3

LEARNING THE FAITH, LIVING THE FAITH

‘I Believe in the Holy Spirit’ The Third Person of the Holy Trinity is the “driving force” of the Church’s life

BY BISHOP WILLIAM E. LORI, SUPREME CHAPLAIN

t the end of May, we will cele- nally begotten; in the Holy Spirit, the brate the solemnity of Pentecost: uncreated Person who proceeds from the coming of the Holy Spirit the Father and the Son as their eternal upon the Apostles and the Blessed Love” (10). We are destined to share Virgin Mary, who were watching and fully in this communion, which we waiting in prayer 50 days after the already begin to possess through parResurrection. Let’s review the ticipation in the Church’s life.

Church’s teaching on the Holy Spirit ‘LORD AND GIVER OF LIFE’ as advance preparation for Unlike the eternal Word this very important day.

The 15th installment We affirm that the Holy of Supreme Chaplain who became flesh, the Holy Spirit remains invisible. Yet, Spirit is the Third Person of Bishop William E. the Blessed Trinity. This Lori’s faith formation we know the presence and power of the Spirit by his does not mean that the program addresses manifold works. It is the Spirit is third in rank or questions 136-146 of the Compendium of Spirit who allows us to be importance, or that he the Catechism of the adopted sons and daughters came to exist at a later Catholic Church. of the Heavenly Father, who time. Rather, he is “third” Archived articles are opens our hearts in faith, because he eternally “pro- at www.kofc.org. and who sanctifies and ceeds from the Father and guides us in the daily folthe Son.” We profess that he is “worshipped and glorified with lowing of Christ. Likewise, it is the the Father and the Son,” with whom Holy Spirit who guides and acts in the he is co-equal and co-eternal (see Church’s teaching office and sacraCompendium, 136-137). The Preface mental life (see Compendium, 137). for Trinity Sunday praises God as Before he ascended into heaven, “three persons equal in majesty, undi- Jesus promised the Apostles “another vided in splendor, yet one Lord, one Paraclete,” or Advocate, to guide them God, ever to be adored in everlasting (see Jn 14:16). While the Third Person glory.” of the Trinity is most often referred to Unfortunately, life-long Catholics as the Holy Spirit in the teaching, wormay think of the doctrine of the ship and devotional life of the Church, Trinity as needless mental gymnas- he has other titles as well. Throughout tics. Sometimes, even theologians the New Testament, especially in the neglect it. Yet, the fact is that the Holy letters of Paul, we read about “the Trinity and the work of the Holy Spirit Spirit of Christ” (see, for example, are at the very heart of every aspect of Rom 8:9). He is also referred to as “the our life of faith. While the Trinity Spirit of glory” (1 Pet 4:14) and “the remains a mystery of faith, it is a Spirit of the promise” (see Gal 3:14). In splendid, life-giving mystery — the the Nicene Creed we profess he is “the secret of God’s inward communion of Lord and Giver of life” (see Rom 8:10).

These titles indicate the close interrelife and love.

Pope Paul VI memorably summa- lationship of the Holy Spirit with rized this teaching in his Credo of the every aspect of Christ’s incarnation, People of God: “We believe then in life, teaching, miracles and, most espeGod who eternally begets the Son; in cially, his death and resurrection (see the Son, the Word of God who is eter- Compendium, 138).

A

4

The Holy Spirit is also symbolized in many ways. In the liturgy of the Easter Vigil, for example, he is referred to as that “living water which springs from the wounded heart of Christ and which quenches the thirst of the baptized” (see Jn 19:34; 1 Jn 5:8). In the sacrament of Confirmation, the coming of the Spirit upon those to be confirmed is symbolized and accomplished by the laying on of hands and the anointing with holy oil or chrism (see 1 Jn 2:20; 2 Cor 1:21). St. Luke’s account of Pentecost describes the Holy Spirit as “tongues of fire” (see Acts 2:3). And in the accounts of Christ’s baptism, the Spirit descends as a dove (see Matt 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Compendium, 139).

We bring forth a rich harvest of new life and love when we open our hearts to the Holy Spirit’s gifts.

Although the truth of God’s Triune life came to light only through Christ, the Old Testament prophets spoke under the Holy Spirit’s influence (see Compendium, 140). The last of the prophets, John the Baptist, stands at the frontier between the Old and New testaments, as the forerunner of Christ (see Luke 1:17). He saw the Spirit descend upon Jesus in the waters of the Jordan and also prophesied that Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit (see Matt 3:16; Jn 1:33; Compendium, 141).

Even more marvelous was the work of the Holy Spirit in Mary. It was the Spirit of holiness who kept her free from sin in view of the saving work Jesus would accomplish. It was w w w. ko f c .o r g

through the power of the Holy Spirit that she conceived and gave birth to the incarnate Son of God. And it was through the Spirit that she became the mother of the whole Church.

THE OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT The Holy Spirit was poured out abundantly upon the Apostles and the Virgin Mary as they prayed. The Church came to life as the living extension of the mission of Christ and the Spirit — namely, to lead all people to holiness and thus to communion with the Trinity. The Byzantine Liturgy sums up this mystery admirably: “We have seen the true Light, we have received the heavenly

Catholic Man of the Month St. John Mary Vianney (1786–1859)

Spirit, we have found the true faith: we adore the indivisible Trinity who has saved us” (Compendium, 144).

The Church teaches that the Holy Spirit is the “soul” of the Body of Christ, the Church. In that light we can understand what it means to say that the Spirit “animates and sanctifies the Church” (145; see Catechism of the Catholic Church, 797). Indeed, the Holy Spirit is the “driving force” of the Church’s life.

He enables us to pray and to proclaim the saving Gospel of truth and love. The Spirit of love restores divine likeness in those who are baptized, confirms his gifts in those who become full members of the Church

W

hen we think of “greatness,” perhaps media celebrities, professional athletes or civic leaders come to mind.

Fame and notoriety, however, are different than greatness.

In fact, the truly great can be so humble, so “insignificant,” as to be almost unknown.

This is the case with St. JeanBaptiste-Marie Vianney, also known as the Curé (parish priest) of Ars. Jean-Baptiste was born near Lyon, France, in 1786 and entered the seminary at age 20.

Although no one questioned

in Confirmation, empowers priests to bring forth the true and living presence of Christ in the Eucharist, imparts forgiveness in the sacrament of Penance, and grants complementary vocations and gifts to the People of God. We bring forth a rich harvest of new life and love known as the “fruits” of the Holy Spirit when we open our hearts to his gifts. (Gal 5:22; see Compendium, 145 and 146).

As we approach Pentecost, ask for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Church, upon your families and in your own life.

United may we pray: “Come, Holy Spirit, and fill the hearts of your faithful!” ■

his calling, it was clear to his teachers that the young man struggled with his schooling.

Nonetheless, he persevered and was finally ordained to the priesthood in 1815.

Father Vianney’s academic trials were not over, though, because priests at that time were required to continue their studies after ordination. With the support of his hometown priest, Father Vianney remained constant in his work despite repeated setbacks.

In 1818, Father Vianney was assigned to serve as the

Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions Offered in solidarity with Pope Benedict XVI ➢➢ General — That the laity and Christian communities may embrace their responsibility for promoting vocations to the priesthood and religious life. ➢➢ Mission — In response to the Lord for the gift of faith, may the younger Catholic communities generously participate in the universal mission of the Church to proclaim the Gospel to the ends of the earth.

Your Spiritual Action Plan Blessed are the Pure of Heart

T

his Beatitude is concerned with the Holy Spirit’s gift of understanding and the working of grace in the life of the believer. St. Thomas Aquinas teaches that purity (or cleanness) of heart refers to a heart that is purged of inordinate or unreasonable desires and affections. Once the heart is rendered singular or undivided by the life of grace, the recipient is blessed to “see God.” And once competing desires are removed from the heart, the believer is able to see God as “all in all.”

Prayerfully consider Ps 24:1-6, Ps 51 and Ps 73.

POPE: CNS PHOTO/ALESSIA PIERDOMENICO, REUTERS ST. JOHN VIANNEY: THE CATHOLIC HEART

parish priest of the small village of Ars. While by no means a scholar, Vianney was a master of spiritual life. His reputation as a spiritual director and confessor quickly spread to the neighboring villages of France, and crowds began to flock to him. On the one hand, his meekness made him approachable by the poorest commoner. On the other hand, his wisdom caused even nobles, bishops, priests and religious to seek his counsel. So much so did the Christian faithful seek him out for reconciliation that, during the last 10 years of his life, Vianney spent 16-18 hours each day administering the sacrament. In 1859, Father Vianney died in the village where he labored as a parish priest for more than 40 years.

There, he is still known today simply as the humble and great Curé d’Ars. St. John Vianney is an example of a man whose greatness came not from superior academic, financial or social achievements, but from his constant attention to the task set before him.

Though his life was filled with difficulties and failure, he remained committed to his vocation and to the service of others. c o lu m b i a /may 2 0 0 9 5

KNIGHTS Connecticut Catholics rally against attack on religious freedom he Connecticut legislation that proposed to strip administrative authority from Catholic priests and bishops awoke a “sleeping giant” in response — namely, the state’s Catholic population.

Knights and their families were among a crowd of more than 5,000 Catholics and others concerned for religious freedom gathered at the State Capitol on Wednesday, March 11. The rally was organized with little notice and took place on what would have been the day of Bill 1098’s public hearing in the General Assembly’s Judiciary Committee.

The previous day, the two lawmakers who introduced Bill 1098 suddenly tabled it, following a week of outcry that the bill violated the First Amendment. The bill singled

T

Knights of Columbus Museum unveils Italian art exhibit new exhibit at the Knights of Columbus Museum in New Haven, Conn., will be on display through Oct. 4. Titled “The Art of Antonella Cappuccio: Contemporary Italian Paintings,” the exhibit features 36 works, handselected by the artist, including several paintings that were commissioned by the Knights of Columbus.

Born in 1944 on the island of Ischia, off Italy’s Mediterranean Coast, Antonella Cappuccio moved to Rome as a young child, where she still works and resides with her husband, Luigi Muccino. Cappuccio was employed in cinema and television before becoming a full-time artist

A

6

OF

COLUMBUS NEWS

out the Catholic Church, seeking to turn over administrative authority to a series of elected lay boards.

Bishops from the state’s three dioceses, along with speakers that included Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson, addressed those gathered for the rally. The speakers forcefully stated that Bill 1098 was unconstitutional and smacked of antiCatholic sentiment, and that the Catholic Church in Connecticut strongly supports the bishops and priests who were threatened by the legislation. The stated purpose of Bill 1098 was to address financial mismanagement in parishes, but speakers pointed out that parish finance scandals are rare.

Archbishop Henry J. Mansell of Hartford said, “The people who have promoted Bill 1098 have embarrassed themselves and they have embarrassed the state of Connecticut.”

Supreme Chaplain Bishop William E. Lori of Bridgeport told the crowd, “Bill 1098 should never

more than 30 years ago. Cappuccio has produced works for the Vatican, the Italian Military Corps and Italian government, and for private collectors. Her works demonstrate a strong dedication to the preservation of the classical traditions of Renaissance Italy, and she has successfully used a variety of mediums and themes throughout her career.

Works that have been commissioned by the Order include portraits of Father Michael J. McGivney, Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI. At a special reception unveiling the exhibit March 19, Cappuccio announced she would be donating an additional painting — created in the days immediately following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks — to the museum’s permanent collection. For more information about the exhibit, visit www.kofcmuseum.org.

have been raised by the judiciary committee, even for a hearing. Let’s bury it for good.”

Read more about Bill 1098 and watch videos from the March 11 rally at www.kofc.org.

Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson was among those who spoke to a crowd of more than 5,000 at the Connecticut State Capitol March 11.

Italian artist Antonella Cappuccio (right) discusses her paintings on display at the Knights of Columbus Museum with Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson, while Enrico P. Demajo, director of the Knights of Columbus Rome Office, translates.

Cappuccio’s painting titled “Founding Vision,” which depicts Father Michael J. McGivney and the founding of the Order, is seen in the background. w w w. ko f c .o r g

John A. Marrella appointed supreme advocate n Feb. 7, members of the Knights of Columbus Board of Directors, at their quarterly meeting, appointed John A. John A. Marrella Marrella as supreme advocate. He succeeds Paul R. Devin, who has retired.

A native of the Bronx, N.Y., Marrella graduated from Harvard Law School and Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government in 1990.

Before coming to the Supreme Council, Marrella spent most of his legal career working for the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C. Devin served as supreme advocate since October 2002. Before joining the Supreme Council in 2001 as executive vice president of legal affairs, he practiced law for 34 years as a senior partner in a Boston law firm.

O

PHILIPPINE KNIGHTS MARCH FOR LIFE

K

nights throughout the Philippines rallied March 21 against House Bill 5043, known as the Reproductive Health and Population Development Act of 2008.

The bill advocates a large range of sexual and “reproductive health services,” including sex education, abortion and access to contraception.

In a letter to Knights of Columbus, Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo of Jaro explained, “A law that prescribes abortion will simply be immoral, unethical and contradictory to the will of God.” Archbishop Lagdameo serves as president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and is a member of San Nicholas Council 4276 in Cebu City, Visayas.

In Manila alone, approximately 10,000 people gathered to voice their opposition to the controversial law. Thousands more participated in each of the numerous March for Life prayer rallies that simultaneously took place in cities throughout Visayas, Mindanao and Luzon. In all, approximately 25,000 people on the Philippines’ three major islands marched in solidarity against the bill.

Holy Week liturgies from Vatican viewed worldwide

H

oly Week liturgies from Rome were broadcast to more than 70 countries around the world using the satellite-uplink program financed by the Knights of Columbus and arranged by the Pontifical Council for Social Communications. Since 1974, the Order has covered the cost of satellite transmissions for papal events — including liturgies at Easter and Christmas — and for their downlink to mission countries.

POPE: CNS PHOTO/GIAMPIERO SPOSITO, REUTERS

Founder’s Day marks Order’s 127th anniversary

S

upreme Chaplain Bishop William E. Lori receives offertory gifts from the greatgrandnephews of Father Michael J. McGivney at a special Founder’s Day Mass, celebrated at St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Conn., on Sunday, March 29. In his homily, Bishop Lori called Father McGivney “an exemplary priest, a devoted shepherd of souls, who reproduced Jesus’sacrificial love by word, sacrament and personal witness.” c o lu m b i a /may 2 0 0 9 7

CHECKUP

YO U R H E A LT H , YO U R F I N A N C E S , YO U R L I F E

Praising the role of parents When we face the facts about raising children, parents deserve recognition

BY JOHN R. INGRISANO, CLU

Y

ou are important to your children. That is why Mother’s Day and Father’s Day are such a big deal. Silly “World’s Greatest Dad” trophies and sentimental cards for mom aside, it is nice to be honored by the kids. And though you may not be perfect — no one is — you certainly deserve the appreciation.

As a parent, you are many things to your children: physician, bank teller, chauffeur, problem solver, disciplinarian and sage. But your primary role, in addition to being a teacher and spiritual guide, is protector and provider.

Here are three facts about raising your children that are hard to ignore:

1 Children are expensive.

In 2005, the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimated it costs approximately $270,000 to raise one child from birth to age 17 in a household with an income of $70,000 or higher. That amount increases somewhat with each additional child.

2 College isn’t cheap, either. The College Board reports that tuition and fees currently average $6,585 per year at public universities and $25,143 at private institutions, and they tend to increase 8 percent per year.

These numbers do not include room and board or other living expenses. Plus, they do not factor in the price of graduate school or the fact that you may have more than one child attending college at the same time.

3 Providing a safe, comfortable home for your children also costs money. The housing market has taken a hit recently, and the median price of existing homes in the United States has declined from $208,800 in 2007 to $181,300 in 2008, according to the National Association of Realtors. Nonetheless, credit remains tight and homes are still expensive.

As a parent, you might go to work every day and put in long hours to take care of your family. You demonstrate your love by paying the bills, making sure loved ones have a nice home in a safe neighborhood and assuring your children that they will have all of what they need, even spoiling them just a little. This also means making sure they can go to college and graduate without a lot of student debt. You do all this because it is your responsibility, because you love your family and because you want to protect them.

This is also the number-one reason why parents own life insurance. Your job and responsibilities as a parent do not end if something happens to you.

We have all heard stories of family men or women who have died tragically before their time.

The odds are good that this won’t happen to you, but the risk is too great to ignore.

What would happen to your family if something happened to you? Yes, there is the overwhelming emotional loss. But there is also the dramatic reduction in your family’s standard of living and the end of everything you have worked hard to provide for your children.

Life insurance, on the other hand, can provide the funds to supplement your family’s needs in the future. It is one of those little things, something you can buy and forget about, but it can make a huge difference if it is needed. Even though your children may only say it on special occasions like Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, the fact is that you are important to them every day.

Learn more about how life insurance can protect your loved ones. Contact your professionally trained Knights of Columbus agent. There is no cost or obligation. ■ John R. Ingrisano is a financial writer and business consultant specializing in money management, insurance and retirement planning. He can be reached at john@thefreestyleentrepreneur. com.

DETERMINE THE AMOUNT OF INSURANCE YOU NEED USING THE LIFE INSURANCE CALCULATOR AT KOFC.ORG 8

w w w. ko f c .o r g JUPITERIMAGES UNLIMTED

‘Your Servants COLUMBIA CONVERSATION

are

Listening’

The Pontifical North American College in Rome celebrates 150 years of excellence B Y J O H N M A L L O N A N D CO L U M B I A STA F F

Msgr. James F. Checchio, rector of the Pontifical North American College, addresses seminarians in Rome.

H

igh atop Rome’s Janiculum Hill, overlooking St. Peter’s Basilica, sits the an august academy, Pontifical North American College, affectionately called the NAC. This enclave is where the bishops of North America and of other English-speaking countries send many of their brightest seminarians and priests for college studies and graduate work. Not surprisingly, numerous bishops count themselves as proud alumni of this hilltop institution.

As the NAC celebrates its 150th anniversary, Columbia spoke with several priests and bishops associated with the College, to reflect on the significance of the institution.

Following a request by Pope Pius IX to the U.S. bishops in 1854, the Pontifical North American College was founded Dec. 8, 1859, to foster a closer connection between the Catholic Church in the United States and the Holy See. The school was originally housed at an old convent on the Via dell’Umilta, a property that Pope Pius IX personally gave for the formation of the seminary. Twelve students formed the first class.

Today, the North American College is near capacity and is home to more than 180 seminarians from the United States, representing 82 dioceses, and six seminarians from Australia. The seminarians attend classes at either the Jesuit-run Pontifical Gregorian University or the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, a Dominican

institution commonly known as the Angelicum. Both schools were founded in the 16th century, and their students represent more than 100 countries.

The NAC is also comprised of The Institute for Continuing Theological Education, which has served more than 2,300 priests since 1970, and the Casa Santa Maria, a graduate studies house located at the College’s original location. The Casa Santa Maria housed more than 70 priests during the 2008-09 academic year.

Archbishop Edwin F. O’Brien of Baltimore, former chairman of the NAC Board of Governors, alumnus of the graduate house and former rector: The NAC is by far the largest of the national colleges in Rome and draws from a reservoir of philosophc o lu m b i a /may 2 0 0 9 9

Seminarians gather in the Immaculate Conception Chapel of the Pontifical North American College. Pope Pius XII dedicated the chapel, along with the rest of the College’s current campus, when it was completed in 1953.

ical and theological expertise unique in the Catholic world. In addition to the academic formation offered by the three branches of the college, spiritual formation receives special attention. The Church’s many basilicas and other holy places — not to mention our Holy Father — serve as ever-present centers for spiritual inspiration.

Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan of New York, alumnus and former rector: In some ways, it is true that the North American College plays a unique role in the life of the U.S. Catholic Church. After all, she helps strengthen the bonds of unity between our local churches and the Bishop of Rome. But in many ways, the College is not unlike other seminaries. Like other programs, her success is measured by the extent to which she produces healthy, wholesome, happy parish priests. Members of the College’s community strive for

10

the same goal — drawing closer to Christ, the Good Shepherd.

“

The NAC

Father Vincent De Rosa, alumnus, priest for the Archdiocese of Washington: Living in the city dedicated to the pastoral care of the global Church, seminarians gain a privileged vision of the Church’s universality. Leaving St. Peter’s, a seminarian can, over the course of his studies, trace the history of the Church’s mission to all nations through Rome’s streets and piazzas. And arriving at this university, a seminarian is then surrounded by classmates from every continent.

Msgr. Daniel Mueggendraws from a borg, vice rector of the reservoir of NAC: The Pontifical North American College philosophical provides a unique experience of priestly formaand theologition in the heart of cal expertise Rome. Seminarians who study here are introunique in the duced to the universal Church through their Catholic interaction in the university classroom, their world. participation in papal liturgies and their pilgrimages to sites of ancient Christian witness and significant history. Since its formation, the college has Father Stephen V. Hamilton, alumenrolled more than 5,000 students nus, priest of the Diocese of from virtually every diocese in the Oklahoma City: It is difficult to United States. believe that I have already been w w w. ko f c .o r g

Pope John Paul II celebrates Mass in the Immaculate Conception Chapel.

home now for nine years…. Almost daily I think about the College in some fashion and the formative experiences I had there. I can’t possibly describe in words the closeness and the bond I formed with my fellow classmates who, because of the nature of being so far away from home, became like family.

Count Enrico P. Galeazzi began working with the Knights of Columbus in 1922, when he designed the Order’s first playgrounds for Catholic youth in Rome. He assumed administrative duties for the playgrounds in 1931.

A native of the city, Galeazzi became close friends with Father (later Cardinal) Francis J. Spellman, an alumnus of the North American College who was later appointed the archbishop of New York. Through Spellman, he also became friends with Cardinal Eugenio Pacelli, the Vatican Secretary of State. Galeazzi accompanied Cardinal Pacelli to the United States in 1936, and the trip included a visit to the Knights of Columbus headquarters in New Haven, Conn.

Three years later, Cardinal Pacelli became Pope Pius XII. Following World War II, the pope urged the U.S. bishops to reopen the North American College, which had closed in 1940 due to the war. Students returned in 1947, and the U.S. bishops commissioned Galeazzi as the architect of a new seminary building to be located on Janiculum Hill. In 1953, the NAC moved to its current campus and was dedicated by Pope Pius XII. TOP: PONTIFICIA FOTOGRAFIA FELICI/NAC

SUPPORTING THE NAC The relationship between the Knights of Columbus and the Pontifical North American College has grown in recent years 1982

Order establishes the Count Enrico P. Galeazzi Fund. Earnings from the $1 million are earmarked for benefit of the North American College and for scholarships.

1986

Count Galeazzi entombed at the NAC’s Immaculate Conception

Chapel.

1987

Supreme Knight Virgil C. Dechant named honorary lay chairman of endowment campaign.

1992

Fund increases to $2 million. Order receives Founder’s Medal for support of the College and promotion of vocations to the priesthood and religious life.

1995

Rector’s Award presented to Supreme Knight Virgil C. Dechant.

2004

Board of Directors votes to increase corpus of Galeazzi Fund to $4 million.

2006

Julie Fenster, co-author of Parish Priest: Father Michael McGivney and American Catholicism, delivers a presentation on the book at the NAC.

2008

Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson delivers address “Building a Civilization of Love” at the NAC (pictured).

2008

Supreme Knight and Mrs. Carl A. Anderson receive Rector’s Award.

c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 11

Arriving for the dedication of the Pontifical North American College’s new campus on Oct. 14, 1953, Pope Pius XII is greeted by Msgr. Martin J. O’Connor, then-rector of the College. Standing back left (wearing a white bow tie) is Count Enrico P. Galeazzi, the architect.

In 1982, the Order established the Count Enrico P. Galeazzi Fund to benefit the College and provide scholarships. It has yielded more than $3 million to date, and the Order’s relationship with the NAC has continued to develop (see sidebar).

Archbishop O’Brien: The Knights of Columbus has been generous in helping the College and its seminarians. Indeed, the College’s expansion to its new home following the Second World War might never have become a reality but for the collaboration of Count Enrico Galeazzi, Cardinal Francis J. Spellman and Supreme Knight John E. Swift. To this day, a sizeable endowment from the Knights effectively promotes the College’s mission — this in addition to the Knights’ support on national and local levels offered to many of the college’s seminarians.

Msgr. Mueggenborg: The mission of the NAC is very similar to the mission of the Knights of Columbus,

12

“

However, the strong and it is no surprise connection is perhaps that these two have demonstrated best by a formed a friendship s Pope recent survey of curand working relationJohn Paul II rent seminarians at the ship that has spanned College, which found nearly a century. observed, that more than 75 perThis friendship cent of them have between the Knights ‘one does not become members of and the College is the Knights. expressed in very hisjust study in toric and visible ways.

Rome; one Count Galeazzi’s grandFather De Rosa: As the son, Enrico Demajo, charter grand knight of studies now administers the The George WashingKnights’ office in Rome ton University Rome.’ Rome and continues to visit Council 13242, I am the College regularly. In also working in a parbecomes a addition, the College ticular way with the classroom has historically helped councils that supportthe Knights by assisting ed me through semifor future with important adminnary, as well as with istrative needs of the my own home council.

American Rome office. During the The immensity of the priests. past few decades, this Order’s generosity is close relationship has truly heroic, not only been further solidified in terms of its finanthrough the financial support the cial generosity, but even more so in Knights have provided. terms of its commitment to family

A

w w w. ko f c .o r g

life and spreading the mission of the Church. In many ways, Knights represent the best of Rome.

The Pontifical North American College offers seminarians a unique experience of studying for the priesthood adjacent at the very center of the Catholic Church. In a 1970 address to the NAC, Pope Paul VI said, “Rome is not only a passive lesson, a silent book or a picture to be admired. Rome is a voice for him who knows how to listen.”

Archbishop Dolan: As Pope John Paul II observed, ‘one does not just study in Rome; one studies Rome.’

Rome becomes a classroom for future American priests, giving them a sense of the tradition, history and universality of the Church they will love and serve.

Msgr. Mueggenborg: As they walk the streets every day, the seminarians pass by the places where early Christians gave their lives during times of persecution. From their personal encounter with the saints and martyrs of Rome, they are encouraged to become ever more fervent witnesses of the Gospel.

Father De Rosa: It seems to me that the value of a seminary education in Rome, ultimately, comes down to one word: Peter. Proximity to the Holy Father brings men in priestly formation to a closer understanding of the Church they will one day serve.

Father Hamilton: The word “heart” comes to mind for several reasons.

The motto of the NAC [Firmum est cor meum] refers to having a steadfast or firm heart, and the College exists at the heart of the universal Church. There, studies, spiritual direction, formation and service put the student into contact with the heart of God — one’s heart grows in love for Christ and his people. At the heart of the Church, my heart was enriched, and the College had much to do with that precious gift. ■ John Mallon has been writing on Catholic issues and teaching for 25 years.

TOP LEFT: AGENZIA VEDO/GALEAZZI ARCHIVE

AN INSPIRING GROUP OF MEN B Y D O M I N I C A N FAT H E R J A M E S F. Q U I G L E Y

F

our years ago, I was invited to the join the faculty of the NAC as the Father Carl J. Peter Chair of Homiletics. I have been ordained 43 years, spending much of my priesthood as a campus minister, professor of theology and administrator at Providence College in Rhode Island. It was something of a culture shock to go back to the seminary. I arrived at the NAC along with the new class in August 2005. Gradually, I adjusted to a more contemplative, regimented and less independent lifestyle.

I have found the seminarians at NAC to be an inspiring group of young men. While some have come to seminary from careers as teachers, lawyers, scientists and businessmen, many enter right after college. There is a lot of musical, artistic, athletic and other talent in the NAC community.

These men see the Eucharist as the “source and summit” of Christian life, and they want to offer the sacraments to the People of God. They desire to mediate the mysteries of God to the contemporary world. Their model of priesthood is one of servanthood.

Indeed, the seminarians I have gotten to know at the NAC have pastoral hearts. They see themselves called by God to be spiritual fathers. (I think they see me as a spiritual grandfather!) Their hearts have been captured by Jesus Christ, and they want to bring him to others. To do that, they give themselves to prayer. They make daily holy hours and practice lectio divina so that the Word of God informs their lives.

I can say that the education and formation program at NAC is intellectually and spiritually very credible. The students want to study the tradition of the Church and sacred Scripture so they can be faithful preachers and teachers to their people.

The seal of the Pontifical North American College features the Latin phrase “Firmum est cor meum,” which means “Steadfast is my heart.”

Pastoral field education in a foreign country, culture and language can be a challenge. NAC students do summer assignments at parishes in their home dioceses. During the academic year, they go out weekly to work in various apostolates, including campus ministry, religious education and hospital work.

Seminarians also minister to the poor and homeless, to immigrants and to U.S. military families living in Italy. I have been impressed with the enthusiasm that students have for their apostolates as they strive to imitate Jesus, the Good Shepherd.

In the past 150 years, literally thousands of good, holy and intelligent priests have come home to the United States after studying at the NAC. So, too, the NAC seminarians today offer great hope for the U.S. Church. Yes, I have learned much from going back to the seminary.

Dominican Father James F. Quigley is the Father Carl J. Peter Chair of Homiletics at the Pontifical North American College and is a member of Friar Council 5787 in Providence, R.I.

c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 13

FATHERS FOR GOOD

www.fathersforgood.org

This Firm Foundation

A Quiet, Loving Father

B Y FAT H E R RYA N M O R AV I T Z

B Y S I ST E R S U S A N M A R I E N O RTO N

atherhood is vital to the Christian life. Even Jesus had an earthly father. Any vocation — whether to marriage, religious life or holy orders — is either strengthened or weakened by the masculine role model in one’s life. A father’s duty is to instill integrity, virtue and manliness. This is not to say that one cannot be a good priest, husband or religious without a masculine model, but it does have a very significant impact. Hence, our culture is in great need of faithful, solid men who are willing to lead and to sacrifice for their families.

I am fortunate enough to be surrounded by numerous figures of fatherhood in my relatives and, most of all, in my own father. The influence of positive male figures has inspired me to strive every day to be a man of faith, hope and love. These men have fostered in me a sense of adventure, courage, responsibility and fidelity.

My father also generated in me a compassion for others and a desire for good. He showed me the stability in the love a father Father Ryan Moravitz at his first Mass, assisted by his father, Deacon has for his son. This firm foundation is one Richard Moravitz of the strongest aids in my life as a priest.

I recall one particular instance when my father revealed his own deeply personal experience to me — that of being loved and of loving others. It was early on a Saturday morning when I was preparing for a high school competition. My dad woke early to cook me breakfast. As we ate, he shared with me the love of God he had experienced in his own life. Then he assured me of both God’s love and his own love for me. He referred to the competition I would undertake that day. No matter the outcome — if I succeeded, stumbled or failed — his love would remain the same.

The experience of that morning still lives within me and sustains both my manhood and my priestly fatherhood. ■

F

y father was a Methodist minister during much of my young life, but my family converted to Catholicism when I was a 15 years old.

I knew I could always go to my parents and talk about anything, so it was natural that I could go to my father one day and say that I wanted to be a religious sister. He was thrilled by the idea.

Sister Susan Marie with her When my younger sis- father, John Norton. ter and I were born, my parents said to the Lord, “You gave us these girls; we’re turning around and offering them to you.” When I received the call to become a sister, my parents said that God was making good on that promise.

My father, a member of the Knights of Columbus, is a warm, loving and faith-filled man. He is someone you can talk to, and he is definitely not overbearing.

Rather, he is a quiet person, so when he does say something, you know it is important.

He is also very devoted to my mother, and they will be married 39 years in August. Through their love, I have come to see the words of Scripture lived out: “The two shall become one flesh.”

At age 17, I experienced my vocation as a knocking on my heart while a priest was giving a vocation talk at a spiritual conference. I knew it was Jesus knocking, saying, “I want you for religious life.”

Having grown up Protestant, I had no idea what religious life was like. Yet, I had no doubt about my vocation, and the call has become stronger as I have entered more deeply into the love of Jesus.

Thankfully, both my mother and father were 100 percent behind me as I discerned my vocation. I know that without them and their support, I would not be where I am today. Their love for the Church, and their dedication to the Divine Mercy and the prolife movement, spurred me on to say “yes” when Jesus called me. ■

Father Ryan Moravitz was ordained in May 2008 for the Diocese of Duluth, Minn., and is pursuing advanced theological studies in Rome. He and his father are members of Ely (Minn.) Council 3238.

Sister Susan Marie Norton is a member of the Parish Visitors of Mary Immaculate, which has its motherhouse in Monroe, N.Y. Her father is a member of St. John Neumann Council 8271 in Webster, N.Y.

14

M

w w w. ko f c .o r g

Passing on a Legacy

A beloved priest and Knight bequeathed his estate to his council and to the Church

BY ED BECKLEY

A

devoted priest who lived a life of modest means stunned the members of Annunciata Council 8759 in Kill Devil Hills, N.C., by giving them his ocean-side house. He further shocked local parishioners when they learned, after his death, that he had amassed a vast financial estate and had willed it entirely to his beloved Catholic Church.

Father Joseph J. Klaus, 80, was instrumental in the growth of the Church on the barrier islands off the Carolina coast. He was a retired pastor of Holy Redeemer by the Sea Parish in Kitty Hawk and helped charter Council 8759 in 1983. A Fourth Degree Knight, Father Klaus died unexpectedly on Dec. 30, 2008, when he had a heart attack following surgery for skin cancer.

“Father would travel anywhere, any time, to give anyone the sacrament of anointing of the sick,” said Past Grand Knight Mike Kopnski. “I believe he never missed a day saying Mass in his entire [priestly] life.”

Kopnski expressed gratitude for Father Klaus’ generosity in willing his residence to “The Klaus Association,” a non-profit organization comprised of local Knights. The association rents the house and uses the net proceeds to support a number of local charities, as well as one very special project: providing funding for a church in Peru that was destroyed during an earthquake. “It couldn’t be done if it wasn’t for Father Klaus,” Kopnski said.

Father Bill Walsh, current pastor of Holy Redeemer, said, “Father’s love and care for the young and old, and for needy families, and his love for the Catholic Mass…truly defined him.”

He added that Father Klaus’ “astuteness in real estate” led to the Diocese of Raleigh purchasing properties in Nags Head and Buxton, which are now sites of the Holy Trinity by the Sea Chapel and Our Lady of the Seas Church, respectively. Father also purchased the house next to Holy Trinity with his own money and donated it to the diocese for use as a rectory.

‘Father Klaus felt firmly that everything he earned was God’s.’

Roc Sansotta, executor of Father Klaus’ estate, affirmed that the retired priest was a wise investor. Sansotta said Father Klaus had as many as 40 properties, including an inn and a partnership in a shopping center. He added that Father Klaus hoped some of his estate would go towards the purchase of land and the construction of a church or chapel in Corolla.

“He didn’t invest for himself,” explained Sansotta. “All his investments were designed to help other people. He was always giving, no matter what.”

David Parks, a member of Council 8759, shares this sentiment: “[Father Klaus] had the means to live quite comfortably, but he chose a spartan existence. He felt firmly that everything he earned was God’s.”

In 2007, Father Klaus recorded an audio interview, in which he recalled many anecdotes about the history of the Church in the region. For example, he recounted the genesis of Holy Trinity Church in Nags Head. The building, formerly a nightclub and a meeting house for the Masons, needed a major clean up and some restoration before it could be used as a place of worship. Father Klaus solicited the aid of Knights from Richmond, Va., to install a new roof. Despite the long drive, “They came several weekends and stayed in the house,” Father Klaus recalled.

Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Raleigh, who presided at Father Klaus’ funeral Mass, noted the late priest’s “missionary zeal.” Until the time of his surgery, Father Klaus would say Mass in private homes every week.

In addition to his work with Council 8759, Father Klaus also served as the faithful friar of the local Fourth Degree assembly — Outer Banks Assembly in Kitty Hawk.

According to Faithful Navigator Kevin McGrath, members are now working to rename the assembly in honor of Father Klaus.

“Father was one of those brothers who did a lot of things very quietly,” said McGrath. “I know he fed an awful lot of people who were hungry.

Father was lively, welcoming…and prayerful. He was also most generous and deeply caring. And by example, he represented what we Knights aspire to be.” ■ Ed Beckley is a member of Annunciata Council 8759 and writes from Nags Head, N.C.

c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 15

Preaching the

WORD

The first deaf priest in the United States founded a community to minister to the hard of hearing B Y S I ST E R LO U E L L A H I C K M A N

E

ven though Father Thomas J. Coughlin belongs to the Order of Preachers, he is living out the legacy of St. Francis de Sales, patron saint of the deaf. Father Coughlin, a member of Pope John Paul II Council 13523 in San Antonio, was ordained in 1977, becoming the first deaf priest in the United States. Just as his saintly predecessor instructed a deaf man in the faith using sign language, Father Coughlin has founded a religious community dedicated to the deaf apostolate.

Father Coughlin’s calling to the priesthood began when his eighthgrade teacher gave him a copy of the book Burnt Out Incense by Father M. Raymond. Following high school, Coughlin applied to various seminaries but was turned down because of his disability. Instead, he went to Washington, D.C., where he graduated with a degree in English from Gallaudet University in 1972.

Coughlin’s journey then took a major turn when he was accepted into the Trinitarian order. He went on to obtain his master’s in religious studies from The Catholic University of America before his dream of becoming a priest was finally realized.

THE ROAD TO SAN ANTONIO In the years following his ordination, Father Coughlin began to work more extensively with the deaf Catholic community, and he worked for the

16

Father Tom Coughlin, founder of the Dominican Missionaries for the Deaf Apostolate, converses in sign language with novice Brother Eric Kumana.

International Catholic Deaf Association for four years. In 1981, he established a program for deaf Catholic youth called Camp Mark Seven. Located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, the camp was named after a passage in the Gospel of Mark (7:32-37) in which Jesus heals a deaf man.

‘In sign language, God’s word is more clear; not just verbal but made flesh. This is our charism.’

In 1985, Father Coughlin transferred from the Trinitarians to the Diocese of Honolulu, where he was

assigned as chaplain for the deaf community. While there, he also earned a nursing degree because Camp Mark Seven, in order to continue operations, needed an on-staff nurse who was fluent in American Sign Language (ASL).

Father Coughlin joined the Dominicans in 1993, and Cardinal John J. O’Connor of New York invited him to set up a house of studies for deaf seminarians in Yonkers.

After Cardinal O’Connor’s death in 2000, the program was transferred to the Archdiocese of San Francisco and later to the Diocese of Oakland, Calif. It was in Oakland that thenBishop Allen H. Vigneron gave Father Coughlin’s community — the Dominican Missionaries for the Deaf Apostolate — status as a private association of the faith. Due to the high cost of living in California, w w w. ko f c .o r g

Father Tom Coughlin (center) and members of the Dominican Missionaries for the Deaf Apostolate gather in their chapel, located in San Antonio. In 1977, Father Coughlin became the first deaf priest to be ordained in the United States.

the community moved again and finally settled in San Antonio.

Before leaving New York, Father Coughlin served for five years as chaplain of the Sign of the Cross Council 11254 on Long Island — the first K of C council formed for the deaf community. Today, most members of his community belong to Council 13523.

‘THE WORD BECAME FLESH’ The fledgling community is now growing and bearing fruit. To date, there are nine members, one of whom will be ordained in about two years. There are also three novices and one postulant.

“The vocations are coming to us,” said Father Coughlin, who added that there are approximately 10 more men who are interested in joining. A requirement for all candidates — both hearing and deaf — is that they be proficient in ASL, which is needed to participate in the community prayers and formation program.

Father Coughlin sees sign language not as a limitation, but as an expressive form of human communication. “The Word became flesh,” he explained. “In sign language, God’s word is more clear; not just verbal

but made flesh. This is our charism.”

Father Coughlin is also able to read lips — a skill that is considered “full communication” in deaf culture. Yet, he knows this is not the case for every deaf person. To overcome this barrier, he projects different parts of the Mass visually, which helps him and his congregation enter more fully into the celebration.

While his spiritual journey has been a winding and difficult one,

Father Coughlin has also experienced the joys that come from serving. He believes that he was made deaf for God’s glory, and in response, he is indeed living the wisdom of St. Francis de Sales’ admonition, “Be who you are and be that well.” ■ Sister Lou Ella Hickman has been a member of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament congregation since 1970. She is a teacher, librarian and parish minister as well as a freelance writer.

Serving the Deaf Catholic Community

I

n addition to the Dominican Missionaries for the Deaf Apostolate, there are a number of other opportunities for men seeking to serve the deaf community as priests. Most notably, the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales and the Redemptorists have a long tradition of ministering to the deaf and hard of hearing. There are also several deaf seminarians studying to be diocesan priests.

There are opportunities for women as well. For example, in 1837 the Sisters of St. Joseph of Carondelet founded the St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf in St. Louis. They have been serving the hard of hearing in that area ever since.

Statistics reveal that only 4 percent of the estimated 5.7 million deaf or hearing impaired U.S. Catholics attend Mass regularly. In 1961, it was 22 percent. As of 2008, there are only nine deaf priests serving the deaf community in the United States. Many Catholics have turned to other faith communities to nourish their spiritual lives.

The vocation harvest among the deaf is plentiful. Even though some people may not be able to hear, there are many who are willing to listen.

For more information, please visit www.dominicanmissionaries.org.

c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 17

W

hen Zach Mabee, Nathan Haverland and Nate Dreyer were living at the Father McGivney House for men’s discernment, they would wake up, go across the street to the rectory chapel and say morning prayers with the parish priests there before Mass. Those first members of the house are all in seminary now. Over the past two years, 13 more men — four of whom also plan on studying for the priesthood — have called the Father McGivney House home.

The Father McGivney House was conceived in 2006 as a joint effort between St. Thomas the Apostle Parish and St. Thomas the Apostle Council 587 in Ann Arbor, Mich. It serves as a house of spiritual discernment for male parishioners and local university students who are contemplating a vocation to the priesthood.

When the property came up for sale in 2006, the members of Council 587 decided to invest in it as a show of support for vocations. They are also hoping to sell their own property to purchase the house outright.

life and to receive spiritual direction from local parish priests. Many who live at the house are altar servers, attend daily Mass and join the priests in praying the Liturgy of the Hours as their schedules allow. The

“Chas” Canoy, the pastoral administrator of St. Thomas and chaplain of the house. “When they see firsthand the life of happy men who love being priests, they can better discern if that is their calling.”

Another part of the commitment for house members is involvement in Generation Christ, a parish outreach program for young adults at St. Thomas. Some of the men at the house assume leadership roles.

They greet new people, organize the meeting space and perform other outreach duties. More than 50 young adults come to Generation Christ each Sunday for an hour of prayer and music, a meditation often given by a guest speaker and Eucharistic adoration.

Father Canoy attributes an increase in vocations at the parish to Generation Christ. “It serves as a feeder for the McGivney House and for a similar house for women,” he said. “The meditations have also given discernment support to the men and women from our parish now at seminary or in a religious order who haven’t lived in one of the two houses.”

The Father

McGivney

House

CONFIRMING VOCATIONS Former McGivney House resident Zach Mabee was confirmed into the Catholic Thanks to faithful Knights Church in 2006. While and priests, young men have attending religious education classes at St. Thomas, a place to discern God’s call he read about the priesthood and began to discern a

BY BOB HORN I NG vocation. He discussed the idea with several priests, SPIRITUAL DIRECTION Mike Rohde, chancellor of the council men also meet with the priests who invited him to join two other and president of the holding company every Tuesday for dinner, to catch men at the house.

“It was a good, strong setting in for the Father McGivney House, up and to hear about different explained, “Any money made on rent aspects of priestly life. Formation which I could grow with brothers in goes to support the discernment pro- talks and small group meetings after the Catholic faith,” said Mabee. “I gram, vocations or charity. It’s a great dinner also take place on alternating loved having access to the rectory chapel to pray before the Blessed deal for the men living there since weeks.

“Our Tuesday gatherings and our Sacrament. When I moved in, I was they would have to pay rent somecommon prayer have been the most confident I would eventually enter where anyway.”

Living at the house allows the influential part of [the men’s] forma- seminary, but living there strengthmen to discern the direction of one’s tion,” explained Father Charles ened and confirmed the idea.”

18

w w w. ko f c .o r g

Mabee is now in his first year of pre-theology at Sacred Heart Seminary in Detroit and is studying for the Diocese of Lansing.

One of Mabee’s housemates that first year, Nate Haverland, had also considered the priesthood. He was earning his master’s degree in nuclear engineering at the University of Michigan and heard about the house through Generation Christ.

“I explored my options while at the McGivney House,” said Haverland. “Spending a lot of time in prayer, having a priest as spiritual director and talking about the possibility of entering the priesthood with priests and other guys was helpful.”

Haverland, who is a member of St. Benedict’s College Council 4708 in Atchison, Kan., is now studying to be a priest for the Archdiocese of Kansas City.

LEADERSHIP AND BROTHERHOOD Andy Forbing, a current resident at the Father McGivney House, plans to join the Eastern Province of the Dominicans in the fall. He, too, learned about holy orders while studying to join the Catholic Church, and living at the McGivney House helped him with his discernment.

“I learned what it means to live with committed Christians all with one goal of following Christ,” said Forbing. “Because there were many different personalities, my patience, humility and my desire to serve others was tested. You might say it was good for my ego.”

Haverland agrees that such an environment is conducive to discernment and growth in holiness. “It’s a lifestyle that would benefit any Catholic man deciding what to do with his life,” he said. “We were blessed to have the involvement of great priests. Their commitment is essential, otherwise the program would soon crumble.”

Father Canoy has not been alone in leading the McGivney House residents. He has received support from Father Jeff Njus, who served as pastor of St. Thomas until recently, as well as Father Pat Egan, the former dean of pre-theology at Ave Maria College, and Mathias Thelen, the current seminarian intern. All four men are are members of the Knights.

PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE JONES

Once a week, men living at the Father McGivney House in Ann Arbor, Mich., gather for dinner and discussion with parish priests.The program for young men discerning a call to the priesthood was started in 2006 with help from the local Knights at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish.

Forbing believes that the key to success at the Father McGivney House is a combination of good role models and good community. “I have received a lot of practical advice,” he said. “And it has been great to notice the growth in each other in the house, to care for and encourage one another, and to show interest in how things are going for our souls, not just with our jobs.”

The importance and impact of the McGivney House is summed up by

Spreading Success

T

he idea for the Father McGivney House was inspired by a similar discernment house for women, the St. Catherine House, which is also associated with St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Ann Arbor. In the past three years, six of the women who have lived at the St. Catherine House have entered religious life.

The priests of the parish were encouraged to start a men’s house with help from the local Knights council. Mike Rohde, along with his fellow Knights who were familiar with pre-theologate houses at Catholic universities, asked,“Why not here?”

David Ciarametaro, a recent law school graduate who lived a year at the house and is now applying to seminary. “I was wavering about priesthood at the beginning of the year I lived there, but now I am applying,” he said. “I needed the brotherhood, the camaraderie, to help in my discernment.” ■ Bob Horning writes for the Catholic press from Ann Arbor, Mich.

Father Chas Canoy believes the success of the Father McGivney House can be duplicated wherever there is a parish relatively close to a university.

“You have to have a priest or two who are willing to invest an evening a week,” said Father Canoy,“But if a priest is serious about vocations, allowing an avenue by which young men can witness the life of a priest is essential.”

Rohde suggested that opening similar houses of discernment elsewhere would be an excellent way for some Knights councils to support vocations, adding, “What a great concept to have McGivney Houses all over the country.” c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 19

Helping Priests in Need Opus Bono Sacerdotii promotes the priesthood and stands by those who have lost everything B Y DA N VA L E N T I

“A

bandoned.” It’s one scary word. Where does a Catholic priest go when the walls close in, when he needs crisis care?

Who ministers to the minister?

Opus Bono Sacerdotii (Latin for “Work for the good of the priesthood”) is the name of a unique lay organization that helps priests in trouble, when no one else can or will.

Founded in 2002, Opus Bono responds to any call for help — regardless of “guilt,” “innocence” or the nature of the problem.

“We turn no priests away,” said Joe Maher, president and cofounder.

“We are there for these guys.

Period,” Maher added. “My wife calls me the ‘priest doctor.’ I go to bed with my cell phone at my side, because priests know they can call me anytime, 24/7.”

Priests represent the living image of Christ, but they are also human.

When personal problems arise in their lives, Opus Bono Sacerdotii is there to provide whatever is needed: emergency funds for special circumstances (for example, a missed mortgage payment or travel costs when a parent dies), counseling, canonical support, legal aid for criminal or civil litigation, and even consolation for priests in prison.

A WORK OF MERCY Maher, a former communications executive who made his fortune in Hollywood, got tired of the Tinseltown rat race. In 1999, he moved back to Detroit with his wife and began searching for his life’s mission.

A few years later, an African priest serving in the United States was falsely accused of improprieties by a white

20

Cardinal Edmund C. Szoka, former president of the commission governing Vatican City State and former archbishop of Detroit, is pictured with the staff of Opus Bono Sacerdotii at the organization’s center in Oxford, Mich. On Oct. 15, Cardinal Szoka celebrated Mass at the center’s chapel and thanked the group for their efforts in assisting priests with difficulties.

woman. The case had explosive racial overtones. Maher heard about it through press reports and knew the priest was alone and desperate.

“I told my wife that somebody had to help him,” recalled Maher.

“She said, ‘Do it. Help him. Entrust the rest to God.’ I knew that’s what I had to do. We were convinced he had been falsely accused, but to me it wouldn’t have mattered if he had done it.”

‘Your great love for the Church and for the priesthood is a source of strength for all of us.’

The priest was found innocent of the charges, and since that one case, Opus Bono has helped more than 5,000 other priests in various ways.

Maher stresses that his work is not

judicial in nature but a corporal work of mercy.

Opus Bono was co-founded by Paul Barron and Pete Ferrara, as well as by Father Eduard Perrone, who is pastor of Assumption Grotto in Detroit and chaplain of the organization. It has a skeleton staff and survives financially month to month. “We never worry about the money because we don’t have time to fundraise,” said Maher. “God provides.”

Raymond Jendrowski, a member of St. Jane Frances de Chantal Council 13340 in Sterling Heights, also assists Maher. A retired sales representative for a precision tool company, Jendrowski considers it an honor to work with Opus Bono.

He said the group has assisted 4,000 of the approximately 6,000 priests worldwide who have been suspended for various reasons. Help has also been given to priests still in active ministry.

“This is part of the priesthood that has been forgotten,” explained w w w. ko f c .o r g

Jendrowski. Often, priests face conflicts in administering the complexities of their parishes. An underlying fear among many priests is that conflict and misunderstanding can lead to an accusation and immediate suspension from ministry.

The process of investigating and adjudicating a case can take years, and the stigma often never goes away.

“Most priests [in this situation] end up with nothing, out in the cold,” Jendrowski said. “It’s disheartening.”

‘CONFESSOR TO THE PRIESTS’ There was no blueprint, template or owner’s manual when Maher began his work. Instead, the staff of Opus Bono has learned to trust God everyday.

“Who has experience in this?” asked Maher. “We are still learning this job.”

Opus Bono Sacerdotii has four fulltime employees and five volunteers.

Among the volunteers is Gino Vitale, a member of St. Nicholas Council 7011 in Sterling Heights, Mich.

Maher recalled, “He came to my office one day and told me, ‘Helping priests is one of our charisms. That’s what [Knights founder] Father Michael McGivney wanted from us.’”

Opus Bono has cooperated with Knights of Columbus councils and assemblies to sponsor events such as Masses of appreciation for priests.

After all, the Order and Opus Bono Sacerdotii share a “love and concern for the well being of the priesthood,” said Maher.

In addition to giving direct assistance to priests in need, Opus Bono engages in various activities to “build up” the priesthood. Using his professional entertainment background, for instance, Maher has produced and directed Broadway-style musicals that present positive images of the priesthood. He is now working on a play based on the life of Father McGivney.

Maher is regularly invited to speak about the priesthood at parishes and secular media events.

He and the Opus Bono staff also attend annual bishops’ meetings and sponsor gatherings of canon lawyers and priests — in each case seeking how to best meet the needs of the Church.

Fourth Degree Knights from throughout Michigan District #1 provide an honor guard for a special Mass to honor all priests, past and present. Opus Bono Sacerdotii sponsored the event Oct. 30 at Immaculate Conception Church in Lapeer, Mich. Knights, their families and chaplains were in attendance.

One bishop told Maher, “You are a confessor to the priests.” Opus Bono upholds a sacred trust of confidentiality, which encourages priests to contact the group for help when they are burdened.

“We seek just resolution of all cases,” Maher said. “We look to support each priest through charity and mercy in his desire to grow holy. We do that by striving to operate in accordance with the authentic teaching of the Catholic Church and the Holy Father.”

In all of this, the staff at Opus Bono strives to “manifest [their] love for Jesus Christ the High Priest,” said Maher.

‘A SOURCE OF STRENGTH’ Opus Bono Sacerdotii has earned recognition from the Vatican and the Church hierarchy. Pope Benedict XVI has personally blessed the group’s work, and many cardinals

and bishops have offered testimonials, including Cardinal William J. Levada, prefect of the Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith at the Vatican, and Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

“Your great love for the Church and for the priesthood is a source of strength for all of us,” Cardinal George told Opus Bono. “I pray that the Holy Spirit will bless you and guide you in all you are doing.”

The greatest testimonials, however, come from the priests Opus Bono serves.

“I didn’t think anyone would want to help me in my condition,” said Father William (real name withheld). “I was homeless, living in shelters whenever I could get into one and eating in soup kitchens or wherever I could find food.”

He made a collect call to Opus Bono, and they accepted the charges.

“I was stunned and shaking with emotion,” Father William recalled.

“They didn’t even know who I was.

As soon as I heard the voice, I began to weep uncontrollably, but they were so kind and patient. ‘Take your time’ they said. ‘Are you a Catholic priest?’ I blurted out between sobs, ‘Yes, or at least I was.’”

After calming down, Father William explained his situation and was offered help.

Within a few weeks, Opus Bono had Father William on a flight to a monastery where he lived for more than a year. A bishop who had contributed to the work of Opus Bono then opened a line of communication with the priest and later invited him to serve in his diocese.

“I want to express my gratitude to the wonderful lay people of Opus Bono, who risk everything to assist us Catholic priests,” Father William said. “They are literally lifesavers…because they have renewed my priesthood.”

Opus Bono Sacerdotii can be reached by phone at 313-937-6305, online at www.opusbono.org and by e-mail at joemaher@opusbono.org. ■ Dan Valenti writes for the Catholic press from his home in Stockbridge, Mass. He has written many books and is the author of “Dan Valenti’s Journal” at www.thedivinemercy.org.

c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 21

AIDS, Africa and

Pope Benedict The media missed the pope’s message in Africa

BY SU PREME KN IGHT CARL A. AN DERSON

W

hen Pope Benedict XVI suggested during his recent trip to Africa that condoms might be part of the problem, rather than the solution, to the AIDS crisis there, reaction from critics was swift.

Benedict’s contention that relying on condoms to stem the spread of AIDS risks “worsening the crisis” may be news to his critics — who were widely quoted in the media — but he was correct.

Consider this: An analysis of AIDS trends in Africa by the Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies noted in 2004: “There seems to be no evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa, certainly not in the five countries of present focus, that condom behavior alone can reverse the course of an HIV epidemic, no matter how high the levels attained.”

The document adds: “If primary behavior change, along with condom use, is essential for national level decrease in HIV infection rates, then the question of how these behaviors are successfully promoted becomes very important. Especially since there has been relatively little promotion of primary behavior change, compared to the risk reduction interventions of condom use….” What the researchers mean by “primary behavior change” is both abstinence and being faithful to one’s partner.

22

A girl watches as Pope Benedict XVI arrives to celebrate Mass at Cimangola Esplanade in Luanda, Angola, March 22. Angola was the second and last stop on the pope's weeklong pastoral visit to Africa.

Dr. Edward C. Green, who oversaw the report cited above, recently told Christianity Today: “This is hard for a liberal like me to admit, but yes, [the criticism of the pope is] unfair because in fact, the best evidence we have supports his comments.”

The pope’s larger message — that there is a need for a true ‘civilization of love’ in Africa — was ignored nearly altogether.

In fact, Dr. Green has also stated that studies show that HIV rates tend to go up — not down — where condoms are readily available. One

reason might be that condom users take more risks than they would otherwise, according to Dr. Green.

The underlying assumption of many critics is that people cannot control themselves when it comes to having sex, and that advocating for better and more moral behavior is futile.

Many Africans whom I know personally think otherwise, and the 2004 report from Harvard agrees: “Evidence supporting the primacy of primary behavior change (or maintenance) can be found in the Karamoja region of northeast Uganda.” Here the HIV rate has fallen to less than 2 percent, compared with 30 percent in other regions of the country.

Interestingly, it is the region where people have one of the lowest levels of condom use (about 3 percent) and also the lowest level of men and w w w. ko f c .o r g

women reporting multiple sexual partners (less than 2 percent).

In other words, HIV rates fell because of an “ABC” approach adopted by Uganda that promotes abstinence until marriage and being faithful, and which puts condoms last as a means of prevention. Those who would continue to make condom funding the top HIV-prevention priority in Africa, and would cut domestic abstinence education in the United States, should take note.

What this controversy boils down to is a fundamental difference in philosophies: Pope Benedict believes that people are capable of choosing to do the right thing. His critics do not.

Instead of receiving fair treatment by the media, Benedict has often been the victim of a game of “gotcha.”

Isolated sound bites — not the pope’s message — become the story, as some reporters and commentators uncritically accept his critics’ opinions. On multiple occasions — first at Regensberg, then at La Sapienza University in Rome, then in the controversy surrounding Bishop Richard Williamson, and now in Africa — the pope’s actual message was ignored as critics took his words out of context or ignored their clear meaning.

The irony — as this case proves once again — is that Pope Benedict is not someone who is likely to be wrong on the facts. A detail-oriented scholar and prolific writer whose many books show a keen ability to research, Benedict has never been a person to make careless statements.

Consider what the pope actually said: “If the soul is lacking, if Africans do not help one another, the scourge cannot be resolved by distributing condoms; quite the contrary, we risk worsening the problem. The solution can only come through a two-fold commitment: firstly, the humanization of sexuality… and secondly, true friendship, above all with those who are suffering.… And these are the factors that bring visible progress.”

The pope’s larger message — that there is a need for a true “civilization of love” in Africa, a continent convulsed more than any other by war and disease — was ignored nearly altogether.

LEFT: CNS PHOTO/ALESSIA GIULIANI, CATHOLIC PRESS PHOTO ABOVE: CNS PHOTO/L'OSSERVATORE ROMANO VIA CATHOLIC PRESS PHOTO

Pope Benedict XVI kisses a child as he leaves Amadou Ahidjo stadium following Mass in Yaounde, Cameroon, March 19.

Critics and commentators who professed shock at the pope’s remarks could have called Dr. Green.

They could have read the Harvard study or a dozen others. But instead, they assumed that Benedict was wrong. The pope deserves better.

Pope Benedict has a long track record of careful and accurate scholarship. He brought a courageous message of behavior change to Africa — one of love and hope, and one which has the potential to save untold lives. ■ c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 23

REFLECTION

OUR LADY’S MANTLE The splendor of truth in the mantle and stars of Our Lady of Guadalupe

BY MSGR. EDUARDO CHÁVEZ SÁNCHEZ

EDITOR’S NOTE: Below is the fifth in a series of articles by Msgr. Eduardo Chávez in anticipation of the first ever International Marian Congress devoted to Our Lady of Guadalupe. The congress will take place Aug. 6-8 following the 127th Supreme Convention in Phoenix. For more information, visit www.guadalupefestival.org.

color symbolic of earth, while the star-speckled greenblue mantle symbolizes the heavens. In addition, the mantle’s color indicates her royalty, since only the native emperors could wear cloaks of that color.

According to the apparition account, even the earth and the flora shone like precious stones.

In this experience of beauty, we see echoes of or centuries, the beauty of the Guadalupan appariPsalm 8:2-5, in which the beauty of creation causes tions has inspired amazement. Yet, the beauty of man to examine his relationship with God: “O LORD, Our Lady of Guadalupe goes beyond superficial our Lord, how awesome is your name through all the attraction. Rather, it challenges us and communicates earth! You have set your majesty truth. above the heavens! … When I see your As the humble Indian Juan Diego heavens, the work of your fingers, the drew near Tepeyac Hill, he was moon and stars that you set in place — amazed that the barren, desolate place What are humans that you are mindhad become like a heavenly garden ful of them, mere mortals that you filled with the exquisite song of the care for them?” most precious birds. For the indigeFacing this grandeur of Tepeyac, nous people, “flower and song” symJuan Diego was confronted with this bolized truth. Thus, even before Juan same question. In the encounter with Diego met the Virgin, he found himself the Virgin Mary, the answer is made before an extraordinary, even heavenclear. Through her declaration of ly, expression of truth. The experience motherhood, and her pointing us to of beauty helped to prepare him for a her son Jesus Christ, we are confirmed personally transformative experience. as her spiritual children and the chilJuan Diego looks further only when the birdsong stops and he hears a The color and stars of Our Lady of dren of God. Even more, we find in the woman’s voice calling him. In the Guadalupe’s mantle signify her queen- Guadalupan events that we can only understand ourselves if we ask anothNáhuatl text, we get a stronger ship of heaven and earth. er question: “Who is God?” glimpse at why: the Virgin calls him The Virgin, clothed with a mantle of stars as queen not only by his Christian name, but adds the affectionof heaven and earth, points us toward the truth that ate ending “tzin” to his name: “Juantzin Juan God is love, and mankind is the recipient of his love.

Diegotzin!” Even though the Virgin is unseen, Juan The “One True God” is a God whose love is so great Diego understands in these few words that the woman that he comes to us through what was most significant who called him loves, respects and dignifies him. It is and precious to him, his own mother; and whatever the call of love that gives Juan Diego a reason to climb our condition, God confirms us in our dignity as his Tepeyac. children. Out of his immense love for us, God gave his The Virgin’s identity is likewise communicated own life, defeating death, filling us with hope and givthrough beauty. When Juan Diego reaches the hilltop, ing a new meaning to our whole existence. In return, he can identify the noble woman as the Virgin Mary in Our Lady of Guadalupe requested a “little sacred part because her “perfect grandeur exceeded all imagihouse,” a church, in which to honor the Almighty nation: her clothing was shining like the sun, as if it God. This church marked a beginning — a new “coswere sending out waves of light.” This directly reflects mic home” for a people transformed by the splendor of the words of St. John the Evangelist in the Book of divine truth and divine love. ■ Revelation: “A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under Monsignor Eduardo Chávez Sánchez is postulator for the cause of St. her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars” Juan Diego. He is the author of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Juan (12:1). On Juan Diego’s tilma, the Virgin’s identity as a Diego: The Historical Evidence (Rowman & Littlefield, 2006) and a member of Council 14138 at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in woman of heaven and earth is affirmed by her garMexico City. ments’ colors and decorations: her reddish tunic is the

F

24

w w w. k o f c .o r g

KNIGHTS

IN

ACTION

Reports from Councils, Assemblies and Columbian Squires Circles

Cleaning Around Town

Members of Fray Diego de la Cadena Council 2367 in Durango, Mexico Northwest, participated in a silent march for life to demonstrate their support for pro-life issues.

More than 2,300 people participated in the event.

Pews Cleaned

School Sign

Members of Father Grealy Council 4540 in Roseville, Calif., cleaned the pews at St. Rose of Lima Church.

Knights undertook the task at the request of the parish Altar Society.

Blessed Pope John XXIII Council 5987 in Monroe, Conn., purchased a sign for St. Jude School honoring the school’s nomination as a Blue Ribbon School. The No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon Award is presented by the U.S. Department of Education to schools that are academically superior in their states or that have demonstrated dramatic gains in student achievement.

Gumbo Dinner Our Lady of Mercy Council 3409 in Opelousas, La., held a chicken and sausage gumbo dinner that raised $3,500 for the council’s charitable fund.

Good Samaritans St. Luke Council 9973 in Slidell, La., donated $5,000 to the Good Samaritan Ministry at St. Luke Church. The ministry used the funds to provide gift cards to more than 280 needy children and 15 needy seniors.

For the Poor Martinsburg (W.V.) Assembly provided three poor boxes for St. Vincent de Paul Church. The boxes were manufactured by a local furniture company and designed to match the church interior.

Room Furnished

Following a devastating ice storm, members of St. Cecilia’s Council 7395 in Claremore, Okla., removed broken trees and debris from parishioners’ lawns. In Peachtree City, Ga., members of Holy Trinity Council 8081 gather each month to clean trash and debris from a onemile stretch of the Peachtree Parkway. And Columbanite Circle 3045 in Olongapo City, Luzon, removed trash, debris and dead trees from the streets of their community with help from the Boy Scouts of the Philippines.

An Informed Decision St. Wenceslaus Council 14385 in Iowa City, Iowa, donated $2,000 to Informed Choice, a pro-life organization.

Special Schools Gunnison (Colo.) Council 2185 donated $700 to Gunnison High School to purchase a swing for students with physical disabilities.

And Mason-Dixon Council 10100 in Pylesville, Md., donated $3,718 to the John Archer School, a school for children with physical and intellectual disabilities.

Feeding the Poor St. John the Evangelist Council 13608 in West Chester, Ohio, and its ladies’ auxiliary served food to the needy at Chosen, a homeless shelter in Hamilton. Knights volunteer at the shelter each month.

St. Ann Council 10009 in Ancaster, Ont., donated $1,500 to furnish a room at Emmanuel House, a palliative care facility in Hamilton.

Funds for the donation were raised at the council’s annual lobster festival and golf tournament.

Bibles Placed

Participants prepare to embark on the annual poker-run sponsored by Father John Kennedy Council 4913 in Valdosta, Ga. The event raised about $840 for cancer research.

Staff Sgt. Joseph F. Fuerst III Assembly in Tampa, Fla., placed 21 Bibles in each room of the Fisher House, located next to the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital.

The Fisher House provides accommodations for families who are visiting wounded military personnel.

Recipients of a new bedroom set smile after setting up one of their new beds.

St. Bonaventure Council 12240 in Davie, Fla., donated two complete bedroom sets to a needy family.

c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 25

ON-TARGET RECRUITING

T

Bob Collagan and Everett Evans of Dr. Lawrence J. O’Rourke Council 4726 in Winter Haven, Fla., paint the chemistry lab at Santa Fe Catholic High School.

Knights from throughout Florida District 37 pooled their resource to paint 15 classrooms, one laboratory and the gym floor, saving the school hundreds of dollars in maintenance costs.

Shooting Hoops Crusader Council 2706 at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass., welcomed students from the McAuley Nazareth Home for Boys to a college men’s basketball game. Knights treated attendees to a game between Holy Cross and Lehigh University, and later to a pizza party. Nazareth Home is a school for boys who have suffered abuse or neglect.

Parking Stripes Nina Council 3602 in Park Forest, Ill., donated $1,250 to have the parking stripes repainted at two of the parishes it serves. Since the work was not needed at the third parish, Knights instead donated $600 to the church’s general fund.

Gifts Given Annunciation of the Lord Council 6303 in Dagupan City, Luzon, provided care packages to nearly 300 needy families. Knights spent more than 15,000 pesos to provide each family with rice, noodles and canned goods.

Prime Rib Dinner Windsor-Johnstown (Colo.) Council 11575 held its annual prime rib dinner and auction. More than 200 people attended the event, which raised $10,000 for the council’s charitable fund.

26

he tremendous charitable work the Order conducts annually is a by-product of continual membership growth. Members raise funds for the needy, volunteer their time and support a wide range of programs. This section of “Knights in Action” highlights those members who have made a concerted effort to grow the Order.

Sometimes success comes with finding the right man for the right job. That was the case for St. Gerard Council 13673 in Farmington, Mich., when Grand Knight Richard Smith recruited Allan “Al” Diedo in 2007.

“Among our members is a man who has made it possible for the council to be awarded the Double Star Council Award,” Smith said of Diedo. “Al has a gift for knowing how to reach out to men of the parish. The basis for that gift is his passion for the Knights of Columbus.”

Diedo joined the Knights after moving to Farmington with his wife, Vera, and two daughters. After becoming involved in some parish activities, Diedo asked his new pastor, Father Ronald Brown, what he could do to help the church. Father Brown suggested that Diedo volunteer at parish events. Eventually, Diedo met Smith, who asked him to join the council.

“Initially, I didn’t know if the Knights of Columbus was right for me,” Diedo said, though he agreed to join about a month later. He quickly progressed through the Order’s first three degrees.

A short time later, at a men’s retreat, Diedo asked one of the other attendees to join the Knights and began filling out a Membership Document (form #100).

Diedo quickly learned that the man wasn’t yet a Catholic, but after completing the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), he became a member.

“That’s what started me on fire with recruiting,” Diedo said. “After I learned more about the Knights of Columbus, recruiting came a lot easier for me.”

As part of his recruitment strategy, Diedo sets up a table at his parish each weekend and greets prospects as they come in and out of Mass. In addition, the council also hosts “doughnut Sundays” once a month where recruiters can approach prospects about joining.

“Being a Knight has made such a difference in Al’s life that he wants to share the experience with everyone he meets,” Smith said. “[Recruiting] came easy for me,” Diedo repeated. “I get an incredible feeling from recruiting new Knights, like this is my calling.”

Rice Distribution

School Support

Msgr. Clemente Yatco Council 7886 in Malvar, Luzon, distributed rice to 195 needy families.

Phoenixville (Pa.) Council 1374 donated $3,000 each to Holy Family School and Sacred Heart School.

The funds were used to provide scholarships to needy students.

Helping Parish and School Uvalde (Texas) Council 3245 donated $6,100 to Sacred Heart Church and School. Most of the funds will be used by the church to offset operational expenses. Sacred Heart School will use about $1,600 to provide scholarships to needy students.

Development Donation Leo Council 917 in Brattleboro, Vt., donated $250 to the Winston Prouty Center, an organization that provides aid to infants with intellectual disabilities.

Students Donate Blood

Animal Man

Father Vincent Joseph Guinan Council 13940 at the University of St. Thomas in Houston hosted a campus-wide blood drive that netted 50 pints of usable blood for the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center.

Council 13940 has administered university blood drives since 2006.

St. Patrick Council 5101 in Hinckley, Minn., hosted a pancake breakfast to benefit Christian Veterinary Missions. Knights raised $450 for Dr. Allen Pederson, who is traveling to Honduras to set up a veterinary clinic and to train local farmers about animal health care. w w w. ko f c .o r g

S P OT L I G H T O N . . .

VO C AT I O N S

A

n occasional series about Knights and Squires working tirelessly toward the same noble goals. This month we spotlight activities that focus on vocations.

• Our Lady of Lourdes Council 7412 in Montclair, Calif., held a clergy appreciation night for local priests, deacons and religious.

• Anchor Bay Council 5981 in New Baltimore, Mich., created a “wall of fame” vocations project at Mary, Queen of Creation Church that profiles men and women who are discerning, who have been ordained or who have undertaken a lay ministry.

• Helena (Mont.) Assembly presented a set of vestments to newly ordained Father Stuart Long, whom the assembly also supported through the Refund Support Vocations Programs (RSVP).

• St. Michael the Archangel Council 11862 in Garland, Texas, hosted a vocations camp for young people at its parish.

• St. Pius X Council 10762 in Tucson, Ariz., donated $2,000 to support vocations in the Diocese of Tucson.

• St. Anthony Council 5955 in Linton, N.D., held a vocations weekend for young men and women at Linton High School. The council also sponsored a five-day vocations retreat for young people from throughout the Diocese of Bismarck.

• Msgr. John F. Sexton Assembly in Port Jervis, N.Y., provides six $500 scholarships to local students and seminarians. The scholarships support seminarians studying in both New York and India.

Robert Reinhart (left) and Henk Lommerse of Genoa (Ohio) Council 4237 look on as a participant shoots his basket during a free throw competition for people with intellectual disabilities. Knights sponsored the contest for 10 residents at the Luther Home of Mercy in Wiliston. Each participant received a plaque and ribbon.

Honoring Athletes

Communion Breakfast

Trinity Council 313 in Bethlehem, Pa., held a party to honor Special Olympics athletes. Knights also presented $2,500 to Special Olympics — proceeds from the council’s annual fund drive for people with intellectual disabilities.

St. Augustine Council 41 in Stamford, Conn., held its annual Communion Mass and breakfast.

Msgr. Thaddeus Malanowski, deputy chief of chaplains for the U.S. Army, delivered the event’s keynote address.

Guarding Gabriel

Golden Donors

Dannemora (N.Y.) Council 2166 held a fund drive and spaghetti supper to benefit Project Gabriel, a pro-life organization. Together, the two events raised about $1,600.

Laval (Que.) Council 2721 donated $1,800 to the Golden Age Club in St. Émile and $2,000 to the Hostel Center for the Elderly.

Chapel Recovery St. Catherine of Siena Council 12686 in Metairie, La., repaired the St. George Chapel, located at the Salmen Boy Scout Reservation in Perkinson, Miss. The chapel, which was originally built by the Knights in 1988, sustained heavy damage during Hurricane Katrina.

Wine Tasting Culver City (Calif.) Council 3542 held a wine tasting that raised $540 for the youth program at St. Augustine Church.

Crisis Averted Fitzgerald Council 833 in Lincoln, Neb., came to the aid of a 12-yearold girl who found herself in a crisis pregnancy. Knights donated more than $900 to the girl after the birth of her son and continue to raise funds for her and her family.

Hospital Auction Father Funcken Council 1504 in Kitchener, Ont., held its annual auction to benefit St. Mary’s Hospital. The event raised nearly $4,800.

Students at Our Lady of Charity School look on as Stephen W. Hanson (center) of Leo Council 1130 in Thunder Bay, Ont., delivers a presentation on the Our Lady of Charity icon. The icon, which is part of the Order’s international Marian prayer program, visited the school while touring Ontario District 14. Father Baxter Assembly provided an honor guard during the presentation.

c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 27

Cannonball Run Hanford (Calif.) Council 2343 and Father Dade Assembly in Tulare donated $500 toward the restoration of two cannons outside the local American Legion hall. Years of weathering had damaged the two World War I-era weapons, and the funds were used to restore the cannons’ wooden wheels.

Escorting Veterans Each Sunday, members of Marian Council 3827 in Richfield-Bloomington, Minn., escort patients at the Minnesota Veterans Home to Mass.

Knights meet for breakfast before helping veterans and their spouses to Mass.

Allan Korejwo (right) and John Rios of St. Francis of Assisi Council 13456 in Henderson, Nev., present a religious education student with a guide on how to pray the rosary. Knights presented rosaries and guides to all of the religious education students at their parish.

Church Mobilization Guests enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres during a wine tasting and silent auction hosted by Oxford (Mass.) Council 4241.

Nearly 400 people attended the event, which saw participation from 13 area restaurants, 14 wine distributors and three high school culinary classes. The event, which was co-sponsored by Mumford Council 365 in Whitinsville and Bishop Bernard J. Flanagan Council 12710 in Sutton, raised $43,000.

Circle of Honor Holy Cross Council 7414 in Palmetto, Fla., built a “Circle of Honor” at its parish. The area consists of three flagpoles, inlaid brick in the shape of a cross, and flowering bushes. The Circle of Honor was dedicated and blessed by Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice.

Padre Louis DeSoto Assembly in Bradenton provided an honor guard at the dedication ceremony.

Ice Fishing Tournament Councils from throughout Quebec District 16 hosted the third annual Knights of Columbus ice fishing tournament. Knights and their families gathered at Saint Placide for the event, which was sponsored

by Lachute Council 2752.

Good Fences Blessed Trinity Council 2719 and Father Edward Collet Assembly, both in Carlsbad, N.M., donated $2,500 to St. Edward School. The funds were used to erect a new chain-link fence around the school grounds.

When a ferocious windstorm damaged Sacred Heart Church in Lumby, B.C., Knights throughout the province mobilized their support. Thirty-two councils raised nearly $11,500 to repair the church roof and make other renovations.

Among them, the parish was able to purchase new furnishings, add new appliances to the church hall, and repair an outdated electrical system.

Hospice Donation Renfrew (Ont.) Council 1916 and Canadian Martyrs Assembly donated $1,500 to Hospice Renfrew.

Eco Knights Wheelchairs Donated Villa Park (Ill.) Council 8365 donated two wheelchairs to St. Alexander Church, which will be used to assist parishioners with physical disabilities.

To help combat the effects of global warming, Father Conrad H. Blanchet Council 4275 in Santiago City, Luzon, teamed with the Philippine Department of Environment and Natural Resources to plant 400 new seedlings in their community.

Canned Food Drive Aid for Deacons After the Diocese of Sacramento, Calif., began implementing budget cuts, the office of the permanent diaconate was at risk of losing its part-time secretary. Sacred Heart Council 7260 in Anderson donated $1,000 to the diocese so the secretary could keep her job. Each of the 18 candidates for the diaconate also donated $1,000 toward the cause. Of the 18 candidates, 12 are Knights.

Life Donation St. Joseph Council 12788 in Mechanicsburg, Pa., along with its ladies’ auxiliary, donated $1,200 to Morning Star Pregnancy Services.

28

St. Césaire (Que.) Council 2172 held a canned food drive that netted $3,500 in cash donations and $4,000 worth of non-perishable food items.

All of the donations were presented to the Volunteer Action Center in St. Césaire.

Wheelchair Weekend Alhambra (Calif.) Council 2431 regularly hosts “Wheelchair Sunday” to raise funds for the Wheelchair Foundation. Between parishioner and council contributions, and funds from students at St. Thérèse Elementary School, Knights raised more than $17,000 for the foundation.

Members of Msgr. Cornelius George O’Keefe Council 8250 at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, N.Y., stand in front of a portrait of Father Michael J. McGivney during a visit to the Knights of Columbus Museum in New Haven, Conn. While visiting the city, Knights also volunteered at a soup kitchen and attended Mass at St. Mary’s Church, where the Order was founded in 1882.

w w w. k o f c .o r g

B U I L D I N G TO WA R D THE FUTURE The following councils made contributions toward their parish building funds: • Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Council 7547 in Elizabeth City, N.C. ($5,000) • St. Joseph’s Council 9202 in Lincoln, Calif. ($60,000) • Marion Council 5960 in Ocala, Fla. ($10,000) • Magellan Council 2730 in Oakland, Calif. ($10,000) • St. Louis de Montfort Council 11137 in Santa Maria, Calif. ($11,137)

Kenneth Antee and Nelson Laborde of Father Alfred Chlebowczyk Council 13296 in Kolin, La., look at a list of identified grave sites at a Catholic cemetery established circa 1835.

Knights have taken on a project to clean and maintain the cemetery in Deville, which had fallen into serious disrepair. Knights also hope to identify some of the graves that have remained hidden or unmarked over the years.

Serving Soup

Home Again

Crab Feed

Members of Henry Stolzenthaler Council 1675 on Staten Island, N.Y., and their families volunteered at a local soup kitchen. Knights served food and distributed clothing to more than 200 people.

St. Bernard Council 12545 in Rockaway, N.J., and Walter J. Barrett Assembly in Boonton donated $3,400 to the Sgt. James Benoit Fund. Sgt. Benoit is a veteran of the war in Iraq who was seriously injured when his Humvee struck an improvised explosive device (IED). Since his return in 2005, the town of Wharton has rallied around Sgt. Benoit to build a new home for him and his family.

The home, which required hundreds of volunteers and donations from businesses and civic organizations (like the Knights), is wheelchair accessible to accommodate Sgt. Benoit’s special needs.

Amador County Council 1849 in Sutter Creek, Calif., held its annual crab feed at Immaculate Conception Church. More than 160 people attended the event, which raised approximately $2,700 for the council’s charitable fund.

My Brother’s Keeper St. Timothy Council 10034 in Lady Lake, Fla., donated $1,000 to Brother’s Keeper Soup Kitchen in Ocala. Knights also volunteer at the kitchen each month.

ARC Donation Philip A. Lambert Council 10903 in Gulf Shores, Ala., donated $2,000 to ARC of Baldwin County.

Operation Homefront For the past two years, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Assembly in Lilburn, Ga., has donated $500 to Operation Homefront, an organization that provides emergency assistance and morale to troops, to the families they leave behind, and to wounded veterans upon their arrival home.

Former Fourth Degree Master Bernard E. Gardner passes a coffin to Auxiliary Bishop Salvatore J. Cordileone of San Diego, Calif., during the burial of an abandoned child. Fourth Degree Knights from the San Diego Chapter provided an honor guard at the Garden of Innocents, where abandoned or unidentified children are given a dignified burial.

Merciful Support Wahoo (Neb.) Council 1833 donated a framed picture of the Divine Mercy to the Saunders County Care Center.

Charitable Giving Allouez Council 658 in Rock Island, Ill., raised $7,500 during its annual fund drive for people with intellectual disabilities. The funds were distributed to several charitable organizations.

Anniversary Donation St. Rose of Lima Council 13244 in Scarborough, Ont., held a dinnerdance to commemorate the council’s anniversary. The event raised $800, which was donated to Ontario Special Olympics.

On a Mission

A Sunday Mission

St. Martin de Porres Council 2403 in Timmins, Ont., donated $1,000 and a new stole to Father Marco Bagnarol, a missionary priest and editor of Consolata Missionaries magazine.

The money will help fund the translation and printing of Bibles for a mission in Mozambique.

Father Maguire Council 3851 in West Covina, Calif., and St. Daniel Comboni Council 5650 in Irwindale volunteered at a Sunday brunch to benefit the Comboni Missionaries. The event raised $2,000 to aid the missionaries with their work. c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 29 TOP: JEANNIE PETRUS/THE CHURCH TODAY, DIOCESE OF ALEXANDRIA, LA.

Life Enrichment St. John Francis Regis Council 7914 in Hollywood, Md., donated $4,800 to The Center for Life Enrichment, an organization that provides vocational and job training for people with disabilities.

Parish Pancakes Gary Velasquez of St. Andrew’s Council 11874 in Rock Falls, Ill., distributes toys and school supplies to Afghan children. Boy Scout Troop 902 and religious education students sent Velasquez several care packages for distribution to children in Afghanistan where Velasquez is stationed with the U.S. Air Force.

Cardinal McGuigan Council 7748 in Charlottetown, P.E.I., hosts a monthly pancake breakfast at Holy Redeemer Church. Knights serve parishioners breakfast on the first Sunday of each month.

Scholarship Fund

Our Lady of Grace Council 13243 in Palm Bay, Fla., volunteered at its parish heritage festival. Knights volunteered nearly 400 hours setting up tents, cooking food and serving patrons.

St. Philip the Apostle Council 11671 in Clifton, N.J., established a scholarship fund in honor of council founder Msgr. Peter J. Doody. The fund will provide financial assistance to students at St. Philip School and for those planning to attend a Catholic high school. The council’s first scholarship fundraiser netted $45,000 for the program.

Baby Bottle Drives

Future Plans

Mary Immaculate Council 12769 in Secaucus, N.J., held a baby bottle drive that raised $2,675 for pregnancy resource centers in Hoboken and Ramsey. Paola (Kan.) Council 1149 held a baby bottle drive that raised more than $3,700 in cash donations and $636 worth of baby clothes, formula and other necessities.

Msgr. Don H. Hughes Assembly in Tucson, Ariz., presented $100,000 to Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of Tucson for the diocese’s clergy retirement fund. Bishop Kicanas is a member of Queen of Peace Council 3954 in Lake Barrington, Ill.

Heritage Festival

Running the School St. Andrew’s Council 11308 in Johnstown, Pa., donated $5,000 to St. Andrew School. The funds are earmarked for the school’s operational budget.

Guiding Orphans Meycauayan Bulacan (Luzon) Circle 3767 and St. Francis of Assisi Council 3941 provide ongoing support to the Nazareth Home for Street Children. Knights and Squires provide food to the orphanage and conduct seminars on the Catholic faith.

Joey Koomen (left) of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Circle 4457 in Charlotte, N.C., interviews Steve Ferraro (center) and Chuck Alberto during a circle history project. Squires interviewed members of St. John Neumann Council 7343 who served during World War II, recording their stories for future generations. The circle also provided food for the five veterans who gave interviews.

Food for Charity St. Padre Pio Circle 4992 in Henderson, Nev., collected 27 boxes of nonperishable food items for Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada.

Urban Ministry Members of St. Mary’s Council 8684 in Greensboro, N.C., cooked and served breakfast to 150 people at the Greensboro Urban Ministry, a homeless shelter.

Custom Case Members of Idaho Falls (Idaho) Council 1663 presented Father Carlos Camergo with a handcrafted case to hold his antique chalice.

Father Carlos serves as chaplain of Council 1663.

Advocating for Children Sharing Life The Merciful Redeemer Round Table in Mississauga, Ont., sponsored by Credit Valley Council 8661, held a pancake supper that raised $1,000 for its parish’s ShareLife fundraiser.

Diocesan Donation A volunteer doctor speaks to patients during a medical mission hosted by Divine Shepherdess Council 7400 in San Nicolas, Luzon. More than 500 needy patients received free examinations and prescriptions.

30

St. Catherine Labourne Council 12811 in Harrisburg, Pa., donated $1,000 to Father Raymond LaVoie, director of vocations for the Diocese of Harrisburg. The funds will help support those studying for the priesthood or religious life within the diocese.

Msgr. Francis J. Desmond Council 13348 in Lewes, Del., donated $200 to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Delaware, which investigates reports of children who have been physically or sexually abused.

>kofc.org exclusive See more “Knights in Action” reports and photos at www.kofc.org/ knightsinaction

w w w. k o f c .o r g

PROMOTIONAL & GIFT ITEMS • MAY 2009

VALUATION EXHIBIT OF

THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS Control No.

State Code

O F F I C E U S E O N LY

✁

Promotional and Gift Department 78 Meadow Street New Haven, CT 06519-1759 Checks or money orders payable to: KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS SUPREME COUNCIL In U.S. currency — No C.O.D. Available in the U.S. and Canada only

B A

C

N AME

A: Blue Columbia® Fleece Vest B: Columbia® Long Sleeve Fishing Shirt C: Columbia® Short Sleeve Fishing Shirt

CITY/STATE/PROVINCE ZIP OR POSTAL CODE PHONE NUMBER

Item No.

Price Each

TOTAL

E

D Orange Cap

Igloo® Cooler

A. BLUE COLUMBIA® FLEECE VEST Cathedral Peak™ 100% polyester fleece vest in blue.

“Knights of Columbus” embroidered on left chest with jumping F Rainbow Trout. Available Columbia® Fishing Vest in: Medium (PG-476), Large (PG-477), XL (PG478) and XXL (PG-479) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$45

ASSETS — Actual and Contingent 1. Admitted Assets of the General Account Fund, item 26, page 2 of Annual Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $14,051,334,507

LIABILITIES — Actual and Contingent

STREET

Qty.

In compliance with the requirements of the laws of the various states, we publish below a Valuation Exhibit of the Knights of Columbus as of Dec. 31, 2008. The law requires that this publication shall be made of the results of the valuation with explanation as filed with the insurance departments.

SHIPPING AND HANDLING

$9

CT residents add 6% sales tax

2. Old System Reserve — including additional reserve $2,658,773 3. New System Reserve — including D.I. and Dis. W. (net of reins) . . . . $8,430,630,908.

4. Reserve for accident and health certificates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $106,928,620 5. Total per item 1 and 2, page 3 of Annual Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8,540,218,301 6. Deduct liens and interest thereon, not included in Admitted Assets, and not in excess of required reserves on the corresponding individual certificates . . . . . . None 7. Balance — Item 5 less item 6 above . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8,540,218,301 8. Liabilities of the General Account Fund, except reserve (items 3 to 22 incl. page 3 of Annual Statement) . . . $3,892,299,714 9. Liabilities — Actual and Contingent — sum of items 7 and 8 above . . . . . . $12,432,518,015 10. Ratio percent of Dec. 31, 2008 — 113.02% Assets — Actual and Dec. 31, 2007 — 114.28% Contingent (Item 1) Dec. 31, 2006 — 114.89% to liabilities — Actual Dec. 31, 2005 — 114.91% and Contingent (Item 9) Dec. 31, 2004 — 114.98%

CANADIAN residents add 5% GST

EXPLANATION

NB, NFLD/LAB, NS residents add 13% GST Check/Money Order No.

B. COLUMBIA® LONG SLEEVE FISHING SHIRT Bonehead™ 100% cotton shirt with button-tab roll sleeves, fly box pocket, rod and tool holder, and utility loop. Embroidered with “Knights of Columbus.” Available in: Medium (PG-506), Large (PG-507), XL (PG-508) and XXL (PG-509) . . . . . .$48

Amount

Fax No. 1-800-266-6340 for credit card/charged orders.

DO NOT MAIL FAX ORDERS M.C. ❑ VISA ❑

Expiration Date: Month

The above valuation indicates that, on a basis of the A.E., A.M. (5), 1941 C.S.O., 1958 C.S.O., 1980 C.S.O., 2001 C.S.O., 1937 S.A., 1971 Individual Annuity Table, Annuity 2000 Table and 1983 “a” Tables of Mortality with interest at 9%, 8.75%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4.5%, 4%, 3.75%, 3.5%, 3%, 2.5%, the future assessments of the society, at the net rate now being collected, together with the now invested assets of the General Account Fund are sufficient to meet all certificates as they mature by their terms, with a margin of safety of $1,618,816,492 (or 113.02%) over the above statutory standards.

Year STATE OF: COUNTY OF:

Connecticut New Haven

SS.

Signature

CREDIT CARD INFORMATION

C. COLUMBIA® SHORT SLEEVE FISHING SHIRT Bonehead™ 100% cotton shirt. Relaxed fit with fly box pocket, fasteners on collar tip and rod holder tab. Available in: Medium (PG-570), Large (PG-571), XL (PG-572) and XXL (PG-573) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$45 D. ORANGE CAP Embroidered with emblem of the Order. PG-827 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$15

NAME STREET CITY

STATE/PROVINCE

ZIP/POSTAL CODE DAYTIME PHONE # (

)

E. IGLOO® COOLER 16-quart capacity to hold (22) 12 oz. cans plus ice or 2- to 3-liter bottles upright.

“Knights of Columbus” printed on lid. PG-397 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$37 F. COLUMBIA® FISHING VEST Henry’s Fork™ III 60% cotton/40% polyester vest. Zip front, six front pockets with hook-and-loop closure, four large lower pockets with zip closure, two pigtail clip retractors, rod holder, removable sherpa fly keeper and utility D-ring for gear on back. Embroidered with “Knights of Columbus.” Available in: Medium (PG-575), Large (PG-576), XL (PG-577) and XXL (PG-578) . . . . . . . . . . .$70

OFFICIAL MAY 1, 2009 To owners of Knights of Columbus insurance policies and persons responsible for payment of premiums on such policies: Notice is hereby given that in accordance with the provisions of Section 84 of the Laws of the Order, payment of insurance premiums due on a monthly basis to the Knights of Columbus by check made payable to Knights of Columbus and mailed to same at PO Box 1492, NEW HAVEN, CT 06506-1492, before the expiration of the grace period set forth in the policy. In Canada: Knights of Columbus, CASE POSTALE 935, Station d’Armes, Montréal, PQ H2Y 3J4 ALL MANUSCRIPTS, PHOTOS, ARTWORK, EDITORIAL MATTER, AND ADVERTISING INQUIRIES SHOULD BE MAILED TO: COLUMBIA, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-0901. REJECTED MATERIAL WILL BE RETURNED IF ACCOMPANIED BY A SELF-ADDRESSED ENVELOPE AND RETURN POSTAGE. PURCHASED MATERIAL WILL NOT BE RETURNED. COLUMBIA (ISSN 0010-1869) IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, 1 COLUMBUS PLAZA, NEW HAVEN, CT 06510-3326. PHONE: 203-7524000, www.kofc.org. PRODUCED IN USA. COPYRIGHT © 2009 BY KNIGHTS OF

COLUMBUS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART WITHOUT PERMISSION IS PROHIBITED. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT NEW HAVEN, CT AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO COLUMBIA, MEMBERSHIP DEPARTMENT, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-0901.

CANADIAN POSTMASTER — THIRD-CLASS POSTAGE IS PAID AT WINNIPEG, MB, PERMIT NO. 0100092699. PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 1473549. REGISTRATION NO. R104098900. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS, 505 IROQUOIS SHORE ROAD #11, OAKVILLE ON L6H 2R3 PHILIPPINE S —FOR PHILIPPINES SECOND-CLASS MAIL AT THE MANILA CENTRAL POST OFFICE. SEND RETURN COPIES TO KCFAPI, FRATERNAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT, PO BOX 1511, MANILA. SUBSCRIPTION RATES — IN THE U.S.: 1 YEAR, $6; 2 YEARS, $11; 3 YEARS, $15. FOR OTHER COUNTRIES ADD $2 PER YEAR. EXCEPT FOR CANADIAN SUBSCRIPTIONS, PAYMENT IN U.S. CURRENCY ONLY. SEND ORDERS AND CHECKS TO: ACCOUNTING DEPARTMENT, PO BOX 1670, NEW HAVEN, CT 06507-0901.

OPINIONS BY WRITERS ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE VIEWS OF THE KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS.

The officers of this reporting entity, being duly sworn, each depose and say that they are the described officers of the said reporting entity, and that on the reporting period stated above, all of the herein described assets were the absolute property of the said reporting entity, free and clear from any liens or claims thereon, except as herein stated, and that this statement, together with related exhibits, schedules and explanations therein contained, annexed or referred to, is a full and true statement of all the assets and liabilities and of the condition and affairs of the said reporting entity as of the reporting period stated above, and of its income and deductions therefrom for the period ended, and have been completed in accordance with the NAIC annual statement instructions and accounting practices and procedure manual except to the extent that: (1) state law may differ; or, (2) that state rules or regulations require differences in reporting not related to accounting practices and procedures, according to the best of their information, knowledge and belief, respectively. Furthermore, the scope of this attestation by the described officers also includes the related corresponding electronic filing with the NAIC, when required, that is an exact copy (except for formatting differences due to electronic filing) of the enclosed statement. The electronic filing may be requested by various regulators in lieu of or in addition to the enclosed statement.

Subscribed and sworn to before me this 13th day of February 2009.

MAUREEN F. VETS Notary Public CARL A. ANDERSON, President DONALD R. KEHOE, Secretary JOHN W. O’REILLY JR., Treasurer SEAL

c o l u m b i a / m a y 2 0 0 9 31

COLUMBIANISM BY DEGREES C HARITY [Left] Father Bob Jaeger, pastor of St. Peter’s Church in Monument, Colo., accepts a check for $35,000 from St. Peter’s Council 11514. The donation was used to help fund a new commercial kitchen as part of the parish’s $5 million expansion.

Presenting the check is Charter Grand Knight Jim Taylor, who is joined by all of the council’s past grand knights. • Rev. James J. Mullen Council 2266 in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, held a benefit breakfast for the Denger family. Patrick and Matthew Denger both have multiple sclerosis and require a wheelchair lift at their home. The breakfast raised $4,100 to defray the cost of the lift.

U NITY [Right] Father Eduardo Chávez Sánchez delivers a presentation on Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Juan Diego to Catholic students at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Conn. Among those attending were members of Quinnipiac University Council 14277. Father Chávez, postulator of the cause of canonization of St. Juan Diego, is on a K of C-sponsored lecture tour about the apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Father Chávez, who is a member of Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe Council 14138 in Mexico City, is also helping the Supreme Council prepare for its first-ever International Marian Congress in Phoenix Aug. 6-8.

F RATERNITY [Left] Knights and their families enjoy a bowling match during a council outing hosted by Credit Valley Council 8661 in Mississauga, Ont. Council members, along with their wives and children, gathered for an evening of fun and fraternity. • Five councils from in and around Detroit co-sponsored a spaghetti supper to benefit the son of a Knight who has cancer but does not have health insurance. The event raised $9,600. In addition, Father Alfred Saylor Council 3774 in Allen Park sponsored several additional fundraisers that netted nearly $18,000 for the Knight’s family.

P ATRIOTISM [Right] Members of Oakley (Kan.) Council 2866 flank a cauldron of Brunswick stew they cooked and sold to members of the community. Knights served up 90 gallons of stew, proceeds from which were used to send care packages to soldiers serving in the Middle East. • St. Peter the Apostle Council 10884 in Itasca, Ill., held a 5K run to benefit SALUTE Inc., an organization that aids soldiers and their families. The event raised $7,000 for SALUTE’s Nightingale Program, which defrays medical and travel costs for injured veterans.

32

w w w. ko f c .o r g CHARITY: TIMOTHY WALTER/COLORADO CATHOLIC HERALD, DIOCESE OF COLORADO SPRINGS PATRIOTISM: PHOTO COURTESY OF THE REGISTER, DIOCESE OF SALINA, KAN.

K N I G H T S

OF COLUMBUS ®

Paul Carrier (right) and Sam Dowd of Sacred Heart University Council 9251 in Fairfield, Conn., display the 50-pound crosses they carried from Fairfield to New Haven on April 6. The two-day journey ended at St. Mary’s Church, where the Order was founded in 1882, and also included an overnight stop at a K of C facility in Orange.

Wood for the crosses was donated by Tinto Council 47 in Milford.

In service to One. In service to all.

Building a better world one council at a time.

Every day, Knights all over the world are given opportunities to make a difference — whether through community service, raising money or prayer. We celebrate each and every Knight for his strength, his compassion and his dedication to building a better world.

To be featured here, send your council’s “Knights in Action” photo as well as its description to: Columbia, 1 Columbus Plaza, New Haven, CT 06510-3326 or e-mail: columbia@kofc.org.

TRACY DEER-MIREK/SACRED HEART UNIVERSITY

‘PRAYER IS THE KEY TO DISCERNING GOD’S CALL FOR ONE’S LIFE’

Growing up in New York, I attended Catholic school and had a

As a novice preparing to profess vows, I have come to realize how

religious sister as my principal. There, the Lord planted the seed of

important my vocation is for the Church. The Lord uses my

a religious vocation in my heart. As girls grow up, they may dream

prayer, work and study for the conversion of the world. This is

about weddings and dresses, but I found myself wondering what

where I find my joy and peace, knowing that my life given to the

I would look like as a sister.

Lord is for his greater glory. When I wake up in the morning, I give each day to the Lord, remembering that I am here for him alone

When I was a teenager, my dad joined the Knights of Columbus

who is faithful. As St. Paul wrote, “The one who calls you is faith-

and my mom began to teach religious education classes. I became

ful, and he will also accomplish it” (1 Thes 5:24).

involved with a youth group and began to discern God’s call to religious life. After college, the Lord guided me to my religious

Prayer is the key to discerning God’s call for one’s life. Go to him.

community. The charism of prayer and evangelization is what

Talk and listen. Read his Word. You may think that you have little

attracted me, and working with youth made it a perfect fit.

to give, as did I, but the Lord rejoices if that little is your all.

SISTER STELLA MARIS HAMANN Disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ Prayer Town, Texas

Keep the Faith Alive www.kofc.org

Please, do all you can to encourage priestly and religious vocations.

Your prayers and support make a difference.