Reflections Summer 2013

...recognizing our gifts of time, talent and treasure

Summer 2013

Don’t Let Your Spiritual Life Go on Vacation

reflections... a newsletter from the Stewardship and Development Office

Vacations can be a welcome respite from the grind of daily life. We often throw out the usual rigorous schedule and welcome a more relaxed pace.

Just make sure when you kick your feet up, you save a seat for God in the family van.

We, the Diocese of Austin, through the Word and Eucharist, prayer, formation and education, social ministries and advocacy, embrace diverse cultures throughout the diocese so that together, as the Catholic Church, we may continue the mission of Christ in the world today.

Stewardship and Development Office Diocese of Austin

6225 Highway 290 E. Austin, TX 78723 (512) 949-2400

Most Rev. Joe S. Vásquez Bishop of Austin

Scott Whitaker

Director of Stewardship and Development

Bob Vallilee

Associate Director of Stewardship and Development

Danielle Madrid

Associate Director of Stewardship and Development

Jean Bondy

Associate Director of Catholic School Development

The Catholic Diocese of Austin

5 Tips for Taking God Along this Summer 1

When you eat a meal, bless your food! We pray at home; therefore, praying on vacation is a natural rhythm to our day, whether we are at a friend’s house or in the middle of Jackson Square at Café Du Monde. Take a moment to say a prayer and make the Sign of the Cross. Don’t worry if folks stare; perhaps the example you set will inspire them to offer the same thanksgiving. There have been many times that random people thanked us for our visible sign of prayer in public.

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Attend Mass. With the evolution of technology, you no longer have to scour the phone book or call a parish ahead of time. Log on to MassTimes.org or the lo-

cal diocesan website and find the Mass time for any parish in the world. Our family has seen some amazing parishes. The wood work and soaring beams in Rapid, S.D., were stunning. The old stone church in Memphis was quiet and contemplative.

The rustic Texan church in San Antonio had a character of a priest and the ancient basilica in Rome nearly stopped my heart with its beauty. I promise you won’t regret going.

It’s like exercise — at the end of the workout you never regret the choice to say “yes.” If an hour-long Mass seems like too much for your small children, consider bringing them to a Daily Mass, typically a much shorter time in the pew but with the same sweet encounter with Jesus. {continued on page 2}

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Look for opportunities to learn about Catholic Church history. While we were in New Orleans, we made time to pray at St. Louis Cathedral. Well, we did “some” praying; the rest I spent running after a busy three-year-old. We’ve toured the missions in San Antonio, learned about various cities’ patron saints, and met some awesome people doing it. Usually, the teachable moment is along the way.

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Anthony of Padua

Pray for safe travels. Before you venture out, offer up a prayer for safe travels. On a recent family vacation, we came upon a fatal wreck. One never knows the path that lies ahead; take time to pray for your travels and those around you.

(1195-1231), Priest and Doctor, Memorial – June 13

Have you lost something of value? Ask St. Anthony for help! At least that’s how some folks see him — the finder of lost articles. But the real St. Anthony was far more interested in finding lost souls. An Augustinian monk, he intended to go to northern Africa to preach to the Moors, but illness brought him back to Italy. There he met St. Francis of Assisi, was ordained a priest, and became a Franciscan. A theologian and Scripture scholar, he was also a gentle, persuasive preacher who practiced what he preached and converted many. The person who is filled with the Holy Spirit, he said, “speaks in different languages. These different languages are different ways of witnessing to Christ, such as humility, poverty, patience and obedience; we speak in those languages when we reveal in ourselves these virtues to others. Actions speak louder than words; let your words teach and your actions speak.” St. Anthony, help me to find my gift — that “language” in which I speak most convincingly of God’s love — and use it in his service.

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Pack religious activities for long car or airplane rides. Make the travel time pass quickly by playing games, listening to music, and doing activities. Visit HappySaints.com for saint coloring pages and prayer cards. The site, www.catholic kidsgames.com, has great Catholic board games. Ready to have fun? Crank a little Matt Maher or TobyMac.

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BONUS! Thank people for their hospitality. You can do it the old-fashioned way, via a handwritten thank you note.

Or, perhaps you would rather offer an hour of adoration, a Mass intention, or a rosary for those folks who made your vacation special. Whatever way you say thanks, invoke the Holy Spirit.

Kathryn Whitaker is the mother of five, 12 and under, and serves as a guest contributor for Austin Catholic New Media and Catholic Mothers Online. She recently shared her advice for celebrating Holy Week with children on EWTN’s Son Rise Morning Show. She can be found online at TeamWhitaker.org.

Adapted from Sharon Hueckel, Steward Saints for Every Day, Copyright © 1999, the National Catholic Stewardship Council, Inc., Washington, D.C. All rights reserved.

Disaster Relief Services Support the people of West with prayers and donations!

Catholic Charities of Central Texas www.ccctx.org/programs/disaster

Society of St. Vincent de Paul www.ssvdp.org/disaster-relief

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Summer 2013

2012 2013

Year of Faith A Time of Renewal and Enrichment he continues to be present in creation. When planning a vacation trip with the family, begin and end the trip with prayer, acknowledging God’s blessings for the trip and recalling God’s gifts experienced during the trip.

The Second Vatican Council's Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy guides the Church in the celebration of the liturgy and the sacraments. Paragraph 10 of this document has become a key statement of the entire text: “Nevertheless, the liturgy is the summit toward which the activity of the Church is directed; at the same time it is the font from which all her power flows.” How can the liturgy inspire us to live our faith during these summer months of vacation and family times?

The meaning of the word “Eucharist” is thanksgiving.

All year long, but especially during the summer when there are more outdoor activities, take time to appreciate and be grateful for God’s gift of creation and recognize how

Those who are parents should welcome these vacation days as an opportunity to bond with family members and share your faith, improving your role as the first teachers of the faith for your children. During these months, include time to offer service to others; the Sunday Eucharist charges us to care for our brothers and sisters. Finally, devote extra time with the Lord in prayer, alone and with others, to remember how dependent we are on God for absolutely everything! In this way, you are living your Catholic faith, Sunday to Sunday.

Robert R. “Bob” Vallilee is set to retire from the Diocese of Austin on May 31, 2013 after nearly nine years of service. Bob joined the diocese in July 2004 after a successful business career with Eastman Kodak and Wallace Engraving. His extensive knowledge of the printing industry has been an invaluable asset to the diocese during his tenure. He effectively assisted with a number of projects in the diocese, most importantly, the $84 million Our Faith ~ Our Legacy Capital Campaign.

A native of Syracuse, N.Y., Bob attended St. Patrick Catholic Church and School. He graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business and is an ardent Syracuse Orange basketball fan. Bob started his career with Eastman Kodak and the company

transferred him to Houston. Upon moving to Austin, Bob settled in Onion Creek and has been an active member of Santa Cruz Catholic Church. After his business career, Bob sought employment with an organization that could use his talents as well as allow him to grow in his faith.

Bob is a wonderful asset to the Catholic Church and he will be missed dearly among his friends and peers. Bob’s business acumen and positive attitude has been a blessing to many Catholics and donors throughout the diocese. In lieu of retirement gifts, he asks that you make contributions to Santa Cruz Catholic School or the Catholic Foundation - Diocese of Austin Priest Retirement Endowment. We will miss you Bob!

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SUMMER 2013

Striking a Balance Wants Legitimate Needs & Illegitimate In his book, The Rhythm of Life, Matthew Kelly writes about the importance of distinguishing our legitimate needs from our illegitimate wants. He says that if we move beyond our shallow and superficial wants, we discover that our deepest desires are for the things we need. Legitimate needs are best understood in relation to the four aspects of the human person: physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual. Our desire for things that help us grow in these four areas aligns with our essential purpose — which, according to Matthew, is to become the best version of ourselves.

Unfortunately, the focus of our modern culture and its measure of our success is increasingly materialistic. And while material possessions and pleasurable experiences can contribute to a healthy and fulfilling life, the challenge is to do and have in accord with our essential purpose. Without that connection to our essential purpose, we are left feeling empty and desperate to fill the void — often with more pleasure and possessions. While we may find moments of pleasure and happiness, they quickly fade away, yielding to deeper feelings of emptiness and despair.

But, if we focus on our essential purpose, our deepest desires will surface and our legitimate needs will be given priority over

our superficial wants. When our daily activities are in support of our legitimate needs we can’t help but feel satisfied, fulfilled and content.

While personal financial pressures have been a part of all past cultures, the financial pressures of today have been compounded by this culture of materialism. Few would disagree that the uncertain financial environment of the past several years has been the cause of feelings of fear and anxiety about one’s future financial condition. In this troubled environment, it can be all too easy to fall into the trap of focusing on what we have, instead of what we need. In light of such uncertainty, it would be prudent for each of us to measure our present resources and assess our ability to provide for the present and future needs of those that depend upon us as well as for ourselves. A budget can be established and financial projections made for all sorts of wants and desires, legitimate or not. However, in order for a budget to be meaningful, sustainable, and support a lifestyle in accordance with our essential purpose, a distinction must be made between our illegitimate wants and our legitimate needs.

Only after this distinction is made should the personal financial planning process begin.

–Ken Ciani, CPA-Financial Advisor at Raymond James, Financial Services

UPCOMING 2013 DIOCESAN EVENTS IS ONLINE!

Scan this QR code with your smart phone or mobile device, or visit www.austindiocese.org/reflections to read the latest issue.

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July 20 Pro-life Volunteer Appreciation Day August 15 The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

September 4 Assembly of Catholic Professionals, Hyatt Regency

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For event information, visit www.austindiocese.org

SUMMER 2013

The Seminarian:

in virtue and integrity of character. Just as Jesus heard the voice of the Father at his baptism in the Jordan: “You are my beloved son in whom I am well pleased,” the seminarian hears these words for himself as he receives the love of the Father for Christ-in-him.

Secondly, through his relationships with brother seminarians, he develops a sense of being an apostolic brother.

Men are naturally strengthened when they come together as a team and strive for a common ideal or goal. This is true in the seminary especially. The seminarian develops genuine friendships based in Christ and the mutual striving for holiness.

This prepares him for a future fraternity among his fellow priests where he may benefit from solid relationships of loyalty, honesty, accountability, and generosity.

Thirdly, in conformity to Christ, the seminarian becomes a chaste spouse. Celibacy is a positive; by saying ‘no’ to a wife and family, the seminarian is saying ‘yes’ to a deeper gift from God — a heart formed for service to others. Just as Jesus lived a celibate life and espoused himself to the Church, so too, a priest receives the gift of celibacy whereby he may enter into an intimate relationship with the members of the Church.

Lastly, the seminarian is being prepared to become a spiritual father. Being a man of communion means being a man that bears life! Priests are called ‘Father’ because they generate life through the preaching of the Gospel and celebration of the Sacraments — bringing the new life of Christ to others.

As Vocation Director for our diocese, I treasure the relationships that I have with our seminarians. They are becoming men after the heart of Christ — men of communion.

–Rev. Brian McMaster, Vocation Director, Diocese of Austin

The Blessed Trinity is a Communion of Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Since each of us is created in the image and likeness of God (Gen 1:26) it means that we become more who we’re meant to be when we realize God’s communion-love in our lives. One of my favorite quotes from the Catechism of the Catholic Church explains this well: By sending his only Son and the Spirit of Love in the fullness of time, God has revealed his innermost secret: God himself is an eternal exchange of love, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and he has destined us to share in that exchange (CCC, 221).

A man who enters the seminary to begin the journey towards priesthood is no less called to be a man of communion. To worldly eyes it may seem that a seminarian is leaving behind his existing relationships or, through his choice of celibacy, limiting his future relationships. In actuality, the seminarian is embarking on a new life that promises to deepen his capacity for relationships and intimacy.

The process of education in the seminary is referred to as formation, in which a man’s heart and mind is formed after that of Jesus Christ. Through this process a seminarian grows in a true freedom that permits him to be more self-giving; he deepens his relationship with God through this spiritual life; he learns the compassion of Jesus the Good Shepherd allowing him to enter more fully into people’s lives at every stage of life. He is being formed as a man of communion.

There are four relational-identities that a seminarian grows in as he journeys towards priesthood and becomes a man of communion. They are: beloved son, apostolic brother, chaste spouse, and spiritual father. These identities parallel the natural order of relationships that a man called to married life may experience.

First, the seminarian grows in his understanding of himself as a beloved son of God, the Father. This identity is the foundation of his spiritual life from which he grows

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Being Formed as a Man of Communion

Seminarian education is supported in part by the Catholic Services Appeal.

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SUMMER 2013

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE PAID AUSTIN, TEXAS PERMIT NO. 1504

Stewardship and Development Office Diocese of Austin 6225 Highway 290 E. Austin, TX 78723

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Leaving a Legacy R e m e m b e r i n g MONA AND bill o’brien are parishioners of St. Helen Catholic Church in Georgetown and are active members of the parish. Mona participates in a women’s Bible study, and Bill and Mona regularly attend Eucharistic Adoration.

Mona also serves on St. Helen’s Stewardship Council; the council works to increase parishioners’ awareness and understanding of stewardship — the sharing of our time, talent and treasures to build up our faith community and to live more Christ-centered lives.

Mona was raised in Brooklyn, N.Y. and attended Catholic schools before training to be a nurse. She has four daughters, 10 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren. Bill is originally from Boston, MA and was educated as an electrical engineer. He has two daughters and five

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C h u rc h

grandchildren. Bill and Mona met six years ago in Sun City, TX, after they were both widowed. They were married on May 26, 2009.

Since their marriage, Bill and Mona’s faith life has blossomed. In addition to their parish activities, Bill frequently joins Mona in reviewing lessons from her Bible study, and they often spend time discussing the scriptures. Bill and Mona are members of a monthly rosary group in Sun City, which has been a source of great joy and comfort, as they meet with others to share their joys and sorrows with the Blessed Mother and each other. Their faith is the center of their lives, and they are grateful to God for all of His blessings.

Bill and Mona generously contribute to the Catholic Services Appeal.