2014 November issue of The Courier

The

COURIER

November 2014 Official Newspaper of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Winona, MN

A Message for Families Synod14 - Message of the III Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, 18.10.2014 III EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE SYNOD OF BISHOPS: MESSAGE:

We, Synod Fathers, gathered in Rome together with Pope Francis in the Extraordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, greet all families of the different continents and in particular all who follow Christ, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. We The gathering of the Extraordinary Synod of the Family, 2014. admire and are grateful for the daily Photo: Vatican News, Official Vatican Network. witness which you offer us and the world with your fidelity, faith, hope, and love. enriching, helping us to look at the complex situations Each of us, pastors of the Church, grew up in a which face families today. family, and we come from a great variety of backWe offer you the words of Christ: “Behold, I stand grounds and experiences. As priests and bishops we at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and have lived alongside families who have spoken to us opens the door, I will enter his house and dine with and shown us the saga of their joys and their difficul- him, and he with me� (Rev 3:20). On his journeys ties. along the roads of the Holy Land, Jesus would enter The preparation for this synod assembly, beginning village houses. He continues to pass even today along with the questionnaire sent to the Churches around the streets of our cities. In your homes there are light the world, has and shadow. Challenges often present themselves given us the and at times even great trials. The darkness can grow opportunity to deep to the point of becoming a dense shadow when listen to the evil and sin work into the heart of the family. experience We recognize the great challenge to remain faithful of many fami- in conjugal love. Enfeebled faith and indifference to lies. Our dia- true values, individualism, impoverishment of relationlogue during ships, and stress that excludes reflection leave their the Synod has mark on family life. There are often crises in marbeen mutually riage, often From the Synod, cont'd on pg. 14

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Blessed Pope Paul VI A tapestry of Blessed Paul VI hangs from the facade of St. Peter's Basilica during his beatification Mass celebrated by Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican Oct. 19. (CNS/Paul Haring)

VATICAN CITY (CNS) By Francis X. Rocca -Beatifying Blessed Paul VI at the concluding Mass of the Synod of Bishops on the family, Pope Francis praised the late pope as the "great helmsman" of the Second Vatican Council and founder of the synod, as well as a "humble and prophetic witness of love for Christ and his church."

The pope spoke during a homily in St. Peter's Square at a Mass for more than 30,000 people, under a sunny sky on an unseasonably warm Oct. 19.

"When we look to this great pope, this courageous Christian, this tireless apostle, we cannot but say in the sight of God a word as simple as it is heartfelt and important: thanks," the pope said, drawing applause from the congregation, which included retired Pope Benedict, whom Blessed Paul made a cardinal in 1977.

"Facing the advent of a secularized and hosPaul VI, cont'd on pg. 10

INSIDE this issue

The Family: Love is Our Mission more on page 4

Wake Up the World! Year of Consecrated Life begins Nov. 30

more on page 11

November is National Adoption Month, Life is a Gift! read stories and how to help on page 13

Pope Francis Watch

The Courier Insider

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Pope Francis to Schoenstatt movement: Marriage never been attacked so much as now

Articles of Interest

The Family: Love is Our Mission Celebration of Marriage Diocesan Pastoral Planning

page 4

page 4 page 5

News.va - October 25, 2014 - (Vatican Hundreds Attend Youth Chastity Presentation

page 6 Radio) - Pope Francis said the institution of Christian marriage has never been attacked In Thanksgiving for Your Faithfulness page 7 so much as nowadays where a temporary or throw-away culture has become widespread. Meet Our New Seminarians

page 8 He said marriage should not be seen just a social rite and urged priests to stay close to Anniversary Celebration Sponsors Special Insert couples and especially children experiencing the trauma of a family break-up. The Pope was FAQs About Marriage Annulment Special Insert replying to questions put to him on a range of topics during an audience with more than Introducing the Institute of Lay Formation Class page 9 7000 pilgrims belonging to the Schoenstatt movement, an international Marian and apospage 10 tolic organization that is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its found- Moving Mountains ing in Germany. The movement now embraces members, both lay and clerics, from dozens page 11 of nations around the world. Mistaken views about marriage and its true meaning, our Wake Up the World! temporary or throw-away culture, the need to be courageous and daring, Mary’s missionary page 12 role, the disunity of the Devil and why the concept of solidarity is under attack. These were Catholic High Schools: Homecoming just some of the wide-ranging issues which Pope Francis spoke about in his off-the-cuff page 13 remarks during the question and answer session with the Schoenstatt pilgrims held in the Adoption is the Loving Option Vatican’s Paul VI Audience Hall on Saturday. page 16 Asked about marriage and what advice he can offer to those who don’t feel welcome in Seminarians of the Diocese of Winona the Church, Pope Francis stressed the need for priests to stay close to each one of their flock without becoming scandalized over what takes place within the family. He said a bishop during the recent Synod on the family asked whether priests are aware of what children Bishop's Calendar feel and the psychological damage caused when their parents separate? The Pope noted how sometimes in these cases the parent who is separating ends up living at home only November 1 – Saturday Winona part-time with the children which he described as a “new and totally destructive” form of 5 p.m. – Mass to celebrate 100 4:45 p.m. – Vespers and Mass, co-habitation.

Years of Catholic Education at St. Immaculate Heart of Mary Casimir Church, Wells Seminary, Winona He said the Christian family and marriage have never been so attacked as they are nowadays because of growing relativism over the concept of the sacrament of marriage. When it November 2, Sunday November 6, Thursday comes to preparing for marriage, Pope Francis said all too often there is a misunderstanding 9 a.m.

– Mass at St. Casimir 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, SMU over the difference between the sacrament of marriage and the social rite. Marriage is for Church, Winona 10 a.m. – Holy Hour (Bishop’s ever, he said, but in our present society there is a temporary or throw-away culture that 7 p.m. – Mass at Cathedral of the Cabinet) has become widespread.

Sacred Heart, Winona 11 a.m. – Bishop’s Cabinet Turning to the missionary role of Mary, the Pope reminded people that nobody can Meeting search for faith without the help of Mary, the Mother of God, saying a Church without Mary November 4, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. November 7, Friday is like an orphanage. When questioned as to how he maintains a sense of joy and hope Mary’s University (SMU) 8:30 a.m. – Morning Prayer with despite the many problems and wars in our world, Pope Francis replied that he uses prayer, 6:30 p.m.

– Holy Hour and DOW employees at Immaculate trust, courage and daring. To dare is a grace, he said, and a prayer without courage or daring Meeting, Bishop’s residence Heart of Mary Seminary, Winona is a prayer that doesn’t work.

12 p.m. – Lunch with DOW Asked about reform of the Church, the Pope said people describe him as a revolutionNovember 5, Wednesday employees at Immaculate Heart ary but went on to point out that the Church has always been that way and is constantly 7:30 a.m. – St. Mary’s University of Mary Seminary, Winona reforming itself. He stressed that the first revolution or way of renewing the Church is President’s Roundtable Breakfast, through inner holiness and that counts far more than more external ways such as reforming Winona November 8 - 12, Saturday the Curia and the Vatican bank. Pope Francis also spoke about the importance of having a 11 a.m. – Mass, Priest Retreat, Wednesday freedom of spirit and warned against closing ourselves up in a mass of rules and regulations, thus becoming a caricature of the doctors of law.

The theme of our throw-away society was also touched on again by the Pope in another reply when he said our present-day culture is one that destroys the human bonds that bind us together. And in this context, Child Abuse Policy Information he continued, one word that is at risk of dying in our society is 'solidarity' and this is also a symptom of our Diocese of Winona - Child Sexual Abuse Policy inability to forge alliances. Pope Francis also warned about the Devil, stressing that he exists and that his Information first weapon is disunity. http://en.radiovaticana.va/news/2014/10/25/pope_francis__marriage_never_been_so_attacked_as_ The Diocese of Winona will provide a prompt, appropriate and now/1109458 compassionate response to reporters of sexual abuse of a child by any diocesan agent (employees, volunteers, vendors, religious The Courier is the Official Publication of the Diocese of Winona or clergy). Anyone wishing to make a report of an allegation of 55 West Sanborn, P.O. Box 949, Winona, MN 55987 sexual abuse should call the Victim Assistance Coordinator at 507Vol 105 - 02 454-2270, Extension 255. A caller will be asked to provide his or her name and telephone number. Individuals are also encouraged Most Reverend John M. Quinn, Publisher to take their reports directly to civil authorities. The Diocese of Joel Hennessy, Editor Winona is committed to protecting children, young people and Theresa Martin, Associate Editor other vulnerable people in our schools, parishes and ministries. The diocesan policy is available on the diocesan web site at www.dow.

Telephone: 507-454-4643 Fax:507-454-8106 E-mail: courier@dow.org org under the Safe Environment Program. If you have any questions Subscription Rates: $5 per year in the U.S. Parishioners in the Winona Diocese subscribe through their parish. about the Diocese of Winona’s implementation of the Charter for Periodicals postage paid at Madelia, MN Postmaster. (ISSN 0744-5490) Publishing Schedule: Monthly - Deadline for advertising & articles is the 15th of the month prior. the Protection of Children and Young People, please contact Peter (ISSN 0744-5490) Martin, at 507-858-1264, or pmartin@dow.org.

November, 2014 w The Courier

Let Us Love as Christ Dear Friends in Christ,

Rejoice in Hope Bishop John M. Quinn grims and I had an opportunity each day at Mass,

personally the Pope.

While in Rome, we visited the North American College and celebrated Mass. Our pilgrims were treated to a reception and were greeted by the Rector and some of the seminarians, who had attended Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary for college. Fr. Bryan Christiansen, who is the Vice Rector of the North American College, is also a graduate of IHM and was very welcoming to our group. When our pilgrims left Rome to return home, we all came back renewed in spirit, deeply aware of the universality of the Catholic Church and grounded in the mystery of Jesus Christ and His love for all.

Blessed Pope Paul VI What a joyous moment of celebration in our Church! On October 19, Pope Francis beatified Blessed Paul VI during Mass in St. Peter’s Square of the Vatican.

Blessed Paul VI was a humble, prophetic, and holy man of God who exemplified love for Christ and her Church. He is known most prominently

for his brief, but powerful document Humane Vitae (On Human Life) that we can now see was deeply prophetic. Let us pray that we all have the courage as he did to stand up for the truth in Christ.

Blessed Paul VI also did many things that we see repeated in the writings of Pope Francis. In his document Evangelii Nuntiandi (On Evangelization in the Modern World), Blessed Paul VI exhorted the Church to be a “Church that goes out” as we see Pope Francis often saying. This apostolic exhortation was shared with the hope of fostering “a new period of evangelization.”

Pope Francis has called Evangelii Nuntiandi “the greatest pastoral document that has ever been written to this day.” As we pray for the intercession of Blessed Paul VI, let us also pray that our hearts may be as humble, pure and open to receiving God’s loving truth as his was.

National Vocations Awareness Week National Vocation Awareness Week (NVAW) is an annual

week-long celebration of the Catholic Church in the United States dedicated to promote vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and consecrated life through prayer and education, and to renew our prayers and support for those who are considering one of these particular vocations.

NVAW will be celebrated in our country November 2-8, 2014. Please ask Our Lord for more dedicated, holy priests, deacons and consecrated men and women. May they be inspired by Jesus Christ, supported by our faith community, and respond generously to God’s gift of a vocation.

Faithful Citizenship ""Responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation." Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship. By our baptism, Catholics are committed to following Jesus Christ and to be "salt for the earth, light for the nations." As the Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us, "It is necessary that

3 From the Bishop

Pilgrimage to Rome A few weeks ago, I had the great blessing to accompany pilgrims from the Diocese of Winona to go to the Holy City of Rome to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the founding of our diocese.

During the time in Rome, you were prayed for everyday. All of the pil-

to pray for your intentions and to ask the Lord to protect the Diocese of Winona from all evil.

Each day, there was morning prayer, Mass, the Rosary and the day closed with a Holy Hour.

The high point of the pilgrimage was the audience with Pope Francis.

The Holy Father went through St. Peter’s Square in the Popemobile and greeted everyone, stopping for photos with babies, children, the sick and disabled, for over thirty minutes. The crowd must easily have been over a half million. It was particularly touching to see Pope Francis greet newly married couples, who came dressed in their wedding attire. At the end of the audience, after the Holy Father gave a brief catechesis, all of the bishops present at the audience were introduced individually to the Holy Father. I cannot put into words the privilege it was for me to meet the successor of St. Peter and how humbling it was to be greeted by him.

I grew up on the eastside of Detroit and never expected to ever meet

Bishop, cont'd on pg. 5

Bishop's Calendar cont'd Officials The Most Rev. John M. Quinn, Bishop of the Diocese of Winona, announces the following: Pastoral Appointments: Very Rev. Russell G. Scepaniak, appointed to serve a 5-year term on the Diocese of Winona College of Consultors,, effective October 10, 2014, in addition to his duties as Pastor of the tri-parish cluster of St. Francis Xavier Church, Windom; Sacred Heart Church, Brewster; and Sacred Heart Church, Heron Lake.

Rev. Peter L. Schuster, appointed to serve a 5-year term on the Diocese of Winona College of Consultors, effective October 10, 2014, in addition to his duties as Pastor of the tri-parish cluster of St. John Vianney Church, Fairmont; and Holy Family Church, East Chain.

United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Baltimore November 13, Thursday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, SMU November 15, Saturday 5 p.m. – Mass at St. Joseph Church, Lakefield November 16, Sunday 8:30 a.m. – Mass at Good Shepherd Church, Jackson – Installation of Fr. James Seitz as pastor 10:30 a.m. – Mass at St. Luke Church, Sherburn November 18, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, SMU 10:30 a.m. – Ministry Health Meeting, Diocesan Pastoral Center, Winona November 19, Wednesday 11 a.m. – Mass with pastors & principals - St. Theodore Church, Albert Lea November 20, Thursday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, SMU 12:10 p.m. – Mass for Deceased Clergy – St. John the Evangelist Church, Rochester November 21, Friday

6:30 a.m. – Lauds and Mass, Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Winona November 22, Saturday 5 p.m. – Confirmation at St. Mary Church, Chatfield, with St. Columban Church, Preston, and St. Patrick Church, Lanesboro November 23, Sunday 10 a.m. – Confirmation at St. John the Baptist Church, Mankato 5:30 p.m. – Vespers and Thanksgiving Dinner, Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Winona November 24, Monday 4 p.m. – Sacred Heart Major Seminary Trustees Board Meeting, Detroit November 25, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, SMU 9:30 a.m. – Holy Hour with Consultors 10:30 a.m. – College of Consultors Meeting, Diocesan Pastoral Center, Winona December 2, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, SMU 11 a.m. – Record Christmas TV Mass at Cathedral of the Sacred Heart,

Winona 5:30 p.m. – St. Vincent de Paul Advent Soup and Bread Supper, St. Francis of Assisi Church, Rochester December 3, Wednesday 11 a.m. – Minnesota Catholic Conference Meeting, St. Paul Chancery, St. Paul December 4, Thursday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, SMU 1 p.m. – Holy Hour (Bishop’s Cabinet) 2 p.m. – Bishop’s Cabinet Meeting December 5, Friday 6:30 a.m. – Lauds and Mass at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Winona 11 a.m. – Campaign for Clergy Committee Meeting, Diocesan Pastoral Center, Winona December 6, Saturday 5 p.m. – Mass and installation of Fr. Michael Cronin as pastor, St. Ann Church, Janesville December 7, Sunday 11:30 a.m. – Mass at Madonna Towers, Rochester November, 2014 w The Courier

4

The Family: Love is Our Mission

Life, Marriage & Family

Last month I introduced our unofficial “Year of the Family”.

As a way of beginning our yearlong focus on the family, I started by recognizing the existence of a loving God who is the Creator of all. Without the foundation of a loving God who holds all things in existence, we could not begin to talk about the truth of the family. We simply have to start here because sadly, in today’s culture, when any claim is made about the truth of the family, Pontius Pilate’s question resounds: “What is truth?”

Thankfully, through reliance on the truth about man that is revealed to us both through our human nature and through Sacred Scripture, we know exactly what the family is and what their vocation is in the world.

God Himself set the foundations for the family at the very creation of Adam and Eve. He created them male and female and created them in the image of God. How is it that we are God’s image Peter Martin, STL Director pmartin@dow.org

in the world? By love. When we love, we show the goodness of God to the world. It is in loving that we truly fulfilling who we are created to be.

St. John Paul II also put it this way: “Being a person… can only be achieved ‘through a sincere gift of self.’ The model for this interpretation of the person is God himself as Trinity, as a communion of Persons. To say that man is created in the image and likeness of God means that man is called to exist ‘for’ others, to become a gift.” On the Dignity and Vocation of Women, 12 God has revealed Himself to us as a Trinity: The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God is not stagnant, but instead is a mystery of personal loving communion. Being created in His image, we thus have the capacity and responsibility of love and communion. This means that we are called to exist for others, to become a gift. To save our lives, we must lose them to God (Mt 10:39, 16:25).

How can we be so sure that our interpretation of the family is the right one? Plainly because Jesus Christ Himself said so! The Pharisees challenged Jesus on the question of divorce and Jesus responded clearly that God created human beings male and female, and that husband and wife become one flesh (Mt 19:3-12, Mk 10:212). Today’s skeptic might say that He was only saying that because that was the culture of the day. However, we do not believe that Christ was merely an historical figure who reasoned

The family is the perfect icon of God in the world.

with the evidence he was presented with. No, Jesus Christ is truly God. No other twelve-yearold carpenter’s son could speak to the elders of the Temple and hold their attention (for days!).

The family is an intimate community of life and love and it has the beautiful vocation of showing forth God’s love in the world. This is why Saint John Paul II tells families to “become what you are!” It is in becoming more truly this intimate loving community that we will help to transform the world by bringing forth God’s presence wherever we are!

Celebration of Marriage

A large number of couples attended the Celebration of Marriage at St. Pius X in Rochester and were recognized by Bishop Quinn and their friends and family for the gift of their marriage and the example of love and fidelity that they give to the Church. The couples attended Mass with Bishop Quinn and were then awarded a certificate at a small reception afterwards.

Please check out www.dowcourier.org for pictures/ stories of the Life Chain participants as well as 40 Days for Life events!

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Diocesan Pastoral Planning: Vision 2016 Update by: Msgr. Richard M. Colletti, Vicar General/Chancellor

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arrangements.

Third, a fair number of churches would no longer have a weekend Mass. As I explained in September, our priests cannot provide an unlimited number of liturgies, due to their various weekday responsibilities along with the press of their weekend commitments (including travel).

Indeed, below a certain threshold, an individual parish Mass is no longer warranted, as I wrote in October. Parishioners would be welcomed in new settings, even as they grieve losing a house of worship once dear to them on Sundays. They could still retain their church as an “oratory” for weddings, funerals, or local prayer, for as long as they could maintain it; but they would now be welcomed for weekend Mass at a different parish nearby, where more people are at hand.

As planning discussions continue in these months, we will need to identify those parishes where changes of these kinds have become necessary. In a few months we hope to publicize a draft plan for review in a patient but deliberate process. Both clergy and lay representatives will be consulted to see if improvements to the draft plan are possible. Perhaps the Bishop could finalize the plan by the spring of 2016, and then implement it over five years or so, as pastors complete their tenure in the clusters to be affected. Where change is needed, we hope to introduce it with grace and care. And in turn, we hope for support and understanding from our people.

For in the end, the Church is not immune to the changes around her. Nevertheless, she will always grow – if not in numbers, then in holiness, vitality, and a commitment to her mission.

Let us pray for one another – and the future of the Body of Christ in our diocese!

In the Diocese

The past few months I have updated you on foreseeable changes in parish-cluster alignments in our diocese. In part this is due to population trends and shifts; and in part, to changes in the Catholic scene. The latter includes a reduced number of priests available to serve our diocese, as well as a reduced number of people in many parishes. In other words, change is all around us; but sometimes the changes happen so gradually, we are hardly aware. Perhaps it is like the process of human growth. On a dayto-day basis, we hardly notice the person in the mirror; but at various points we realize that he or she has changed significantly over time.

The same is true of our diocese. State demographers show us remarkable change in our landscape over the past decades. Oncethriving rural communities have declined, while urban centers around Mankato, Owatonna, and (especially) Rochester have grown. Population shifts in southwest and south central Minnesota are often due to decreased Anglo populations and increasing immigration (especially from Spanish-speaking lands); and where growth occurs in southeast Minnesota, it could be either Anglo or immigrant growth. Moreover our younger native generations are far more mobile than in the past, and just as likely to move away as to remain in their home areas.

The Church is not immune to these changes.

In the 1990s Bishop Vlazny began a planning

process that reshaped the diocese under Bishop Harrington. His 2000 plan reduced our parish clusters from 63 to 51 over eight years. Before long Bishop Quinn will publically propose a plan to reduce by 5 more, and seek local input for improvements. That would perhaps mean that about 20 of our current clusters could undergo an adjustment in the next five years or so. What kinds of changes might they see?

First, across the diocese, about ten clusters could be combined into five. These would be among the smallest parish clusters in their deanery, whose size no longer warrants a fulltime pastor. Assistance in identifying these clusters came from professional consultants who have carefully analyzed our diocesan data, as well as broader demographic trends in southern Minnesota. These studies, completed in 2012, help us identify where our Bishop must distribute our priests in order to serve our various Catholic communities fairly and resourcefully. We reviewed these studies with our parish priests and lay representatives in deanery planning meetings during 2012-13.

Second, about a half-dozen parishes would no longer have a resident Pastor. Although they would still have a local weekend Mass, for other needs they may have to phone him at a nearby parish, email him with a question, or travel for appointments or the like. In addition, some parishes would shift from one cluster to another, as new parish alignments take shape under a new plan. And various parishes would change their Mass schedule to accommodate new cluster

Bishop, continued from page 3 all participate, according to his position and role, in promoting the common good. This is inherent in the dignity of the human person that “As far as possible citizens should take an active part in public life" (nos. 1913-1915). I would encourage all to be informed about the candidates and issues, prayerfully considering them in light of the Holy Scriptures and Church teaching, and be an influence of good for society in your voting on November 4. Please join me, also, in continuing to pray for our nation and her leaders.

Extraordinary Synod on the Family The extraordinary Synod on the Family of 2014 has concluded and prepared the way for the Ordinary Synod on the Family in 2015. Please continue to pray for the Synod and the Church as she evaluates the needs of families and responds to the challenges of the family in our present time.

The synod bishops did release a beautiful affirmation for and letter of encouragement to families, like yours, who are striving to live out their faith everyday. Please take a minute to read this message, if you haven’t already, which can be found on the front page of this issue of The Courier.

All Saints Day The Feast of All Saints reminds us that our lives are destined for union with God in heaven.

On November 1, the Church celebrated the countless numbers of men and women who behold the mystery and beauty of the Trinity in heaven. Saints are ordinary people who loved God and loved people in an extraordinary way and desired holiness more than anything in this world.

I know I have lived with saints, worked with them and learned from them. A priest friend often preached that Saints are sinners who kept

trying. So, don’t give up! Jesus Christ gave us the Eucharist, the Sacrament of Penance and the other Sacraments to transform our hearts so that we can become servants of God in this world and one day in heaven, behold the beauty, the glory and the love of the Triune God and take our place in the communion of Saints.

Month of the Holy Souls On November 2, the Church celebrated All Soul’s Day and prays for those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. Death will claim every living person and thing. Jesus Christ is our hope and His victory over sin and death reminds us that life does not end in death.

Be sure to pray for our beloved dead in purgatory during this month of the Holy Souls. I am greatly comforted that if I am not ready to be in God’s presence after death, there is time for purification so that divine love can break fully into my life and Christ can be the center of all my relationships. Eternal rest give to them O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them.

Life is a Gift November is National Adoption Month, I am thankful for the gift of life we each have received from God. What a beautiful gift of family life a couple can give to an orphaned or abandoned child when they open their hearts to adoption!

We want women in crisis pregnancies to know there are other options. I want to thank Catholic Charities especially for all their efforts in helping generous couples and these wonderful children find each other. This is a great service in living out our prolife belief, that we are not merely against abortion but we are for life! I am so grateful to all who are involved in the adop-

tion ministry, may God bless your work as you continue to be a light of hope to those in need.

Keeping Our Children Safe Our children are our future, the gifts God has given the Church and it is our responsibility to care for and protect these wonderful little ones. They are a top priority. I am pleased to report that once again the Diocese of Winona has been found in compliance with the Charter that was established to make certain our children are able to grow, learn and be formed in a safe and loving environment.

Gratitude November is the time that our nation has chosen to ‘give thanks’ for our countless blessings from God. Please allow me to let you know how grateful I am for all of you, the faithful of the Diocese of Winona. One of the most humbling yet joyful experiences I have is witnessing your response to God’s call to help with the needs of each other and the needs of the Church. So many of you place your gifts, your resources, your time – yourselves – at God’s service in and through the Church. For this, I am truly grateful.

I am also grateful for God’s indomitable love in Christ, which called me to priesthood. I am grateful to every single person that has supported me along my spiritual journey, especially to all of you who pray for me and support my ministry as your bishop.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Rev. John M. Quinn Bishop of Winona November, 2014 w The Courier

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Hundreds Attend Youth Chastity Presentation

Youth & Young Adults

It was a Monday evening in Heron Lake, MN and all appeared normal at Sacred Heart church until about 6:30pm. Cars started approaching in every direction, Buses were circling trying to find a spot for unloading, and slowly the pews inside became packed and there was a good energy in the air. Many young people and their leaders made the sacrifice on September 29th to hear nationally known chastity presenter Jason Evert. For some young people, this was the first exposure to Jason’s talks, and for others they were excited to see him again after previous encounters at NCYC and Steubenville. Some young people wore t shirts from Catholic Conferences and were filled with anticipation, and others had the look of curiosity as if they didn’t know what to expect.

As the night began, Jason did a wonderful job of connecting with the young people.

One young man volunteered in the beginning and Jason carried him over his shoulder to make a point about our call to protect authentic love.

His humor, enthusiasm and deeply personal stories connected with the young people and by the end of his presentation the whole audience was engaged including the adult chaperones.

What Ben Frost often appeals to young Director people during Jason’s talk is his ability to bfrost@dow.org connect with the positive element of chastity which encourages people to live with purpose. While our society often views human sexuality and chastity in a negative light- more as a litany of oppressive rules, Jason invited the young people to see the “Yes” in a chaste life. While the force of the secular

November, 2014 w The Courier

tide is very difficult to wade against, it was absolutely apparent by looking at the faces of the young people that the message being presented was sinking in and connecting. At the end of the presentation everyone was out of their seat applauding and there was a great sense that the Holy Spirit was present. Upon the conclusion of the talk, Fr. Andrew Beerman exposed the Blessed Sacrament for a time of Eucharistic Adoration, and six local priests heard confessions for more than an hour. Young people hurried to the confession lines and others focused in on our Eucharistic Lord present on the altar.

Jason Evert lead a few reflections during the time and slowly the young people and their leaders left for home, filled with the grace of our Lord. I wish to extend a very big thank you to all the Youth leaders and their priests who sacrificed to make the event happen. We also thank Catholic United Financial for their generous support which made the event a reality. If you would like to learn more about Jason Evert and his work please visit www.chastityproject.com

In Thanksgiving for your Faithfulness and Generosity and diocesan support to address the critical needs of the projects indentified. The Priests Retirement Fund has been greatly strengthened, parish projects have already begun and the IHM Seminary project will commence once the required amount of the pledges are received. Please consider accelerating pledge payments if you are able.

2014 Annual Diocesan Catholic Ministries Appeal – to date, 72.5% of the two million dollar goal has been given or pledged. These funds provide the financial support needed to operate the Catholic ministries administered by the Diocese of Winona, including: Youth and Young adults; Lifelong Faith Formation; Institute of Lay Ministry; The Courier Newspaper; Weekly TV Mass (now closed captioned); Catholic Schools; Vocations and more.

Bishop Emeritus Bernard J. Harrington Seminarian Burse – this fund directly supports the seminarians studying and discerning a vocation to the priesthood for the Diocese of Winona.

In just the first few months of this year’s appeal, nearly $90,000 has been given to support our men. Thank you! Giving to the Burse has become a wonderful way to remember and honor loved ones and special people.

This year sixteen men are studying at various levels of formation including the largest freshman class in many years. The Burse pays all expenses of the seminar-

ians studying at the graduate level and it also pays the room and board expenses of our college-level seminarians studying and living at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary (Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota).

Local Parish Support – the important efforts listed above are in addition to faithful support given at the parish level.

Your gifts and support to your local parish are absolutely critical in enabling the Sacraments to be administered. Year after year you respond to the needs of your parish so generously.

Support of the Church outside your community – through second collections and other appeals which seek support for the work of the Church and Catholic organizations in our country and around the world, you again have responded with great generosity. One example is the Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Rice Bowl Project. Through this effort CRS fights poverty locally and globally by distributing to 25% of the funds to help in your local communities and 75% to help fight poverty around the world. The Diocese of Winona collection was nearly $73,000 in 2014…the results of simply collecting our spare change. Recenty, Dr. Carolyn Woo, President and CEO of Catholic Relief Services sent a letter in acknowl-

edgement and gratitude of the Diocese of Winona gift. “…Because of gifts like yours, Catholic Relief Services is able to change lives for the better in 93 countries around the world.

On behalf of CRS staff and those who will be helped by your generosity, I thank you for leading the faithful in the Diocese of Winona to live in solidarity with our brothers and sisters overseas…”

Thank you! As we observe a time of Thanksgiving this month, let our hearts always be filled with the awareness of those around us, especially those most in need.

May we continue to share the gifts and talents God has given to us as we continue living our baptismal call. Thank you for responding so faithfully and generously.

7 Mission Advancement

The faithfulness and generosity of the people of the Diocese of Winona is truly inspiring. On behalf of Bishop Quinn and everyone involved in the ministries of the Diocese of Winona, thank you for your support both financially and through your prayers. You can be assured that the thousands of people throughout southern Minnesota who benefit from the ministries you support are also grateful for your faithfulness and generosity.

It has been a challenging year for everyone – a difficult economy, worldwide terrorism, global uncertainty, and confronting clergy abuse from the past. In spite of these things and the many other challenges that you face in your personal lives, you have remained committed and focused on the mission of the Church – your “co-mission” with our ancestors and predecessors – to share the saving Word of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Thank you for your support, specifically of the following initiatives: Rooted in Faith, Rejoice in Hope Capital Campaign – the campaign officially concluded year-one of the fiveyear campaign. Over $26 million has been pledged for the support of the Priests Retirement Fund, renovation to Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, and 114 parish projects. Also funded was the 2013 Catholic Ministries Appeal (formerly known as the Annual Diocesan Appeal.)

This fundraising effort asked parishioners to go above and beyond normal parish

Joel Hennessy Director jhennessy@dow.org

AN IMPORTANT STATEMENT FROM THE DIOCESE OF WINONA 55 W Sanborn St PO Box 30098 Winona, MN 55987 Phone: 507-858-1275 Fax: 507-454-8601 jhennessy@catholicfsmn.org

You Can Save on Taxes and Give to Your Family As the year comes to a close, so too does your ability to lower your taxes.

A little planning now can save you time and money later.

When you include a nonprofit in your year-end tax planning, you can provide significantly for yourself, your family and your loved ones. Some charitable plans feature payments back to you or those you designate.

Charitable gift annuities and certain trusts can provide you with the tax savings you need while helping family members with regular, dependable payments.

Please contact us for a free illustration.

YEAR END TAX SAVINGS CHECKLIST CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS

Give before the end of the year and reduce your income taxes. Review your gifts to date to ensure you have given to the causes important to you and in the amounts you intend. Now is also a good time to make sure you have proper receipts and documentation.

FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS

If you have contributed to a Flexible Spending Account, make sure you have used all the money in the account. Now might be the time to get that eye exam or other medical procedure you have been delaying.

MORTGAGE INTEREST

You can pay your January mortgage payment early and add to your mortgage deduction this year. Just check with your accountant on how to do this, especially since the number you report might differ from what your lender sends on Form 1098.

STATE AND LOCAL TAXES

Call your accountant now to ask what state and local taxes may be paid in 2014 that will reduce your federal income taxes for the same year.

Alternatively, if delaying payment may help you, determine the best strategy.

INCOME TAX WITHHOLDING

After calculating your taxes for 2014, work with your accountant to see if you should adjust the withholding on your employer’s W-2 Form.

STAY UP-TO-DATE

Check our website and subscribe to our newsletter, which will give you additional tips and ideas, especially if Congress passes new laws at the end of the year that will affect your taxes.

CHARITABLE GIFT ANNUITY

End the year with a tax deduction and start the next one with a check back to you every three months for life. Payments are fixed and offer capital gains and estate tax savings.

WINONA, MN – October 8, 2014 – The Diocese of Winona denies claims that it is in bankruptcy. Reports circulated on Tuesday, October 7 that the Diocese of Winona is or will imminently be facing bankruptcy as a result of cases filed following the Minnesota State Legislature’s threeyear lifting of the statute of limitations. The Child Victims Act allows for the filing of child sexual abuse claims which occurred in the past for a period of three years and began mid 2013.

Several media agencies reported on a quote made by Bishop John Quinn in one of the documents posted online that day by attorneys representing John Doe 1 in that recently settled case.

The Diocese of Winona anticipates additional legal claims however the total number of claims and the scope are unknown. The Diocese of Winona is not in a bankruptcy situation at this time.

Due to the unknown nature or actuality of any future claims, it is impossible to forecast if diocesan assets will be sufficient to cover the unknown future claims and it is impossible to say that bankruptcy is not a possibility in the future. The following are the most frequently asked questions relating to this matter: What would happen if the Diocese was forced into bankruptcy in the future? In bankruptcy, the diocese could rework its finances and establish a plan to remain a viable ongoing entity. But it would do so while satisfying — as much as possible — the claims of creditors, including sexual abuse victims. Again, the Diocese is not filing bankruptcy at this time.

Are parishes or parish accounts in the Deposit and Loan considered diocesan assets? No. Every parish and Catholic organization (including the Deposit and Loan Fund and the Catholic Foundation of Southern Minnesota) in the geographic area defined as the Diocese of Winona are separately incorporated legal entities. They are not connected legally to the corporate entity known as the Diocese of Winona and therefore parish and other Catholic organization assets could not be seized to settle claims, judgments or to pay legal fees.

Are donations or pledges made to diocesan appeals or campaigns protected? Donations made to the Rooted in Faith, Rejoice in Hope! capital campaign, the Bishop Emeritus Bernard Harrington Seminarian Burse, and the Catholic Ministries Appeal are protected. These gifts were made for specific ministry purposes. Furthermore, they were made to the Catholic Foundation of Southern Minnesota which stewards these gifts and is a separate legal entity.

Are donations made to local parishes used for clergy abuse in any way? No. As stated above, parishes are separate legal entities and pastors with the assistance of trustees manage parish accounts.

November, 2014 w The Courier

8

Meet Our Benjamin Peters

New

Vocations

Benjamin Peters is from Kasson, MN, where his home parish of Holy Family is located.

How did faith grow in your life? “Of all the places in my life, my faith probably grew the most from because of my family. Religion was never a strange topic around the house, and we often talk about our Catholic faith.

Sometimes, staying up till all hours of the night talking about this or that.”

“It was in that same family environment that my faith first started to grow. Both of my parents taught Catechism classes, and so they were always helpful when I had questions. At the same time, the parishioners in both my home parish and our sister parish (Christ the King in Byron, MN) helped me to grow immensely in my faith. Sitting with people after Mass, eating donuts, and talking to people, helped me get to know my faith on a deeper, more personal level. Through my Church I also had many opportunities to become involved in things, and though I didn’t always enjoy going to work at the church stand at our local festivals, they are memories I will never forget.”

When did you first begin to think about the priesthood? “The first inklings I had about a possible vocation as Rev. Will Thompson a priest came in fifth Director grade. I was standing outside, at the end of wthompson@dow.org morning recess, and while looking up at the school building, I remember thinking (about it) for the first time. Then my teacher called us inside and that was the end of that. Over the years the priesthood stayed in my mind as a possible career, but never something I actually took seriously.

Finally, two years ago I made the decision that I actually had to give serious thought to this “Priesthood” thing, and thus through the guidance of the Holy Spirit (and some very persuasive women at church, who kept suggesting the priesthood) I eventually came to the decision that I had to look at Seminary. By the grace of God, the Diocese of Winona allowed me to study.”

How did the process of knowing God’s will unfold for you? “It took a long time for my heart to become open to the will of the Lord, and sometimes it still has trouble. Even a month before coming to the seminary I was having doubts. Fortunately, through prayer and careful listening, God showed me I had nothing to be afraid of. Without constant deepening in my faith, from God, I would have never been able to reach the point where I am at now.

In recent years, I began to enjoy reading more about the lives of the Saints, and through them God has given me many graces. Remembering that God’s presence is always with us is one of the most important things that I’ve come to especially appreciate.”

How do you feel about life at the Seminary now? “By remembering his presence, I have been able to work through my fears about entering this next stage of my life, and it has become more of an adventure than anything.

From the first day to now, seminary continues to be a constant joy in my life; I couldn’t ask for much more. Life in the seminary is difficult but very rewarding, and no matter where I go, the time spent here will be extremely rewarding.”

What would you say to those thinking about a vocation? “Pray, go to Mass, and look for God. Develop a relationship with the Trinity through prayer, because ultimately God is the one who calls you, it’s not necessarily up to you. Also go to Mass! It can’t be stressed enough that we meet God at the Mass, and that it is the high point of our lives! Third, look for God because he is everywhere. The Saints explain this fantastically, that God is in every things we do. However, in the end, remember that God only wants what will give you true joy. He will never lead you some place you are not meant to be.”

November, 2014 w The Courier

Seminarians Isaac Landsteiner

Isaac Landsteiner grew up on an acreage just outside of Fairmont, MN. He shared about his extended family, “my parents are Steve and Marie, and I have seven siblings: Andrew (and his wife, Vanessa), Ben (and his wife, Lindsay), Nathan, Betsy, John, Abby, and David. Andrew, Ben, Nathan, Betsy and John are all working full-time in the area, Abby is majoring in Music Education at the University of Mary in Bismarck, and this is David's second year attending Blessed Jose Sanchez del Rio Minor Seminary in Mankato. Ben and Lindsay have been blessed with four children of their own: Rebekah, Samuel, Lillian, and Jeremiah. I thank God for all my family, and in particular, my parents, who have given me a great example of faithfulness. I am also very thankful for my faith family at St. John Vianney Parish, many of whom have had a quiet impact on my decision to enter seminary.”

Where were the first seeds of vocation planted on your journey to the seminary? “As I reflect on my journey to seminary, I realize that the graces I have received are all the fruits of seeds planted by others. In my earlier years, these were mostly seeds of faith, planted by my parents, and my Catholic School teachers. These seeds were nurtured through the graces of the sacraments, and the love of my family. A little later on, seeds of vocation were planted, one by one, in a gentle and unobtrusive manner, and through the prayers of the people of God, and the guidance of my pastor, Fr. Peter Schuster, these seeds took root, and have brought me to the seminary.”

“There are many instances I remember now, which at the time may have seemed insignificant, but regardless, were influential in my discernment. The first seed was this: When I was about four years old, I saw Pope Saint John Paul II on the television, and I couldn't help but notice his contagious joyfulness.

Knowing also that he was the Pope, I concluded, with the best four year old logic I could muster, that in order to achieve that pure, beautiful, holy joy, all I had to do was become the Pope! I realized my mistake later on, of course, but even so, I had made a connection between faithfully answering God's call, and complete joy, that has lasted to this day. Another time that sticks out to me, is when I attended the Chrism Mass in Fairmont, in fifth grade. I happened to walk

by Bishop Harrington after the Mass, and he greeted me, asking if I had ever considered the priesthood. Somehow, just knowing that the Bishop wanted to know me by name, and had asked me personally to consider the call had a big impact on me as well. Then, that same summer, I went to Quo Vadis Days, and got a little bit of a taste of what it would be like to be a priest. For many years in junior high and high school, I looked forward to Quo Vadis Days, and the opportunity to learn more about the faith and the priesthood, talk with priests one on one, pray the liturgy of the hours, and live in the Seminary for a week.”

How did those seeds develop into a decision to enter the seminary? “At the beginning of tenth grade, I felt God calling me to grow closer to him, and to focus on growing in holiness. At the same time, I was preparing for confirmation, and my confirmation sponser, Deacon Ed Bonnarens, suggested that I begin to pray a weekly holy hour. I was hesitant at first, because at the time it was easy to imagine the inconvenience of adding more to my schedule, and impossible to imagine the grace and blessings that would result from that decision. I said yes, and it changed my life. Ultimately, the grace of prayer before the true presence, and the guidance of Fr. Schuster are what helped me to make the decision.”

How do you feel about being at the seminary now? “As I begin my time of discernment at IHM, I am excited, anxious, peaceful, and overjoyed. I don't know what the future holds, but I know who holds it, and that gives me great hope for the many possibilities that lie ahead.”

What advise would you have for other young men and women who are discerning a vocation to the priesthood or consecrated life? “For those young men and women in our diocese who are considering a call to the ordained or religious life, here are my words of encouragement. Do not be afraid! The Lord is all good, all knowing, and all powerful. This means he wants the best for you, knows what's best for you, and he is fully capable of making that desire a reality, if you will only say yes! I would also encourage you not to go at it alone. Talk to your pastor about it, talk to your parents about it, and most importantly, seek the Lord in the sacraments, and in your prayer life. He will not disappoint you!”

Special Anniversary Edition November, 2014

The Diocese of Winona Thanks Her Celebration Sponsors steiergroup.com

PLANNING STUDIES

CAPITAL CAMPAIGNS

d partner of the Steier Group is a prou e d honored to celebrat an a on in W of e es oc Di uthern Minnesota. so in y ar rs ve ni an h 5t your 12

Hey Mister, how much for a dollar?

We all know a dollar is 100 cents. So if you had the option, would you rather pay 120, 100, or 30 cents to buy one?

In my role as an advisor, I often work with Catholic United’s members on estate planning.

It’s critical to think about the “problems” your family might face when you pass away, before it actually happens. Looking at these “problems” ahead of time can help you prepare a solution for your loved ones.

Life insurance is a great “leverage on the dollar” tool that can solve certain estate planning problems. Let’s look at a common estate planning case study as an example of this leverage.

Here the hypothetical parents have a good-sized estate consisting of property, investments, retirement plans, and cash. After a thorough analysis of this estate we might encounter the following needs and issues: • Estimated estate and income taxes due at death: $100,000 • Debts against the estate that need to be settled: $50,000 • A fair solution to balance the estate among heirs: one plans to continue farming,

the others need to be treated fairly • Replacing assets from estate used for nursing home expenses.

In this example, upon the parents’ death, we estimate the estate would need to provide about $500,000 to meet the prior obligations.

What are their options to provide this amount at death?

The simplest scenario would be to use $500,000 in cash from the estate at death. The heirs could use this cash to fulfill the needs of the estate. The thing is, even if the cash were available (and more often than not, it isn’t), it would cost one dollar for every dollar used in this way, or more when you consider the taxes that were most likely paid on it.

Another option would be for the estate to use $500,000 of the parents’ retirement assets to fill the needs of the estate. This is a likely scenario for many people, but again, there’s a serious problem. Taxes may have originally been paid on that money (depending on the type of retirement account), and now the heirs themselves would also have to pay income tax on the distribution of retirement assets at death. Then they could use the balance to satisfy the estate needs. In this example, each

advertisement dollar used could cost $1.20 or more.

So pay a dollar or more for every dollar needed to settle your estate. Or spend a fraction of that and still have the liquidity to settle estate costs with life insurance. Depending on age and health, every dollar of death benefit can often be created with just 30 to 50 cents.

Furthermore, with life insurance, death benefits are income tax-free, so every dollar could be used to settle the estate and provide a lasting legacy for the heirs.

John Tetzloff, CLU, FICF, LUTCF, is the Advanced Case Specialist and Trainer at Catholic United Financial.

He has more than 20 years experience in estate planning and financial preparedness.

NOTE: Catholic United Financial is not permitted to give tax or legal advice. You may wish to consult your personal tax consultant or attorney with tax or legal questions. about your specific situation.

Congratulations Diocese of Winona on your 125 Anniversary!

Catholic United Financial is honored to support this long-standing diocese with a rich history in southern Minnesota. We have partnered with parishes and schools in the diocese to provide more than $3 million to support Catholic religious education, scholarships and our members. Contact your local Sales Representative or Independent Agent and unite your finances with your faith.

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www.catholicunited.org 1-800-568-6670

m u b l A o t o h P y l i m a F n Diocesa

Parish Families Connected By Faith We conclude our parishes this month! Our photo album this issue shows Churches established through the years 1911 - the present.

St. Matthew, Vernon Center, Est.1911

St. Paul, Minnesota City, Est.1925

St. John Baptiste de la Salle, Dodge Center, Est.1945

Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona, Est.1952

St. Edward, Austin, Est.1960

Holy Family, Kasson, Est.1977

St. Mary, Winona, Est. 1911

Sacred Heart, Hayfield, Est.1935

St. Vincent de Paul, West Concord, Est.1945

St. Olaf, Mabel, Est.1954

Christ the King, Byron, Est.1963

Holy Spirit, Rochester, Est.1990

St. Mary, Lake Wilson, Est.1916

Queen of Angels, Austin, Est.1936

Our Lady of Loretto, Brownsdale, Est.1946

St. Pius X, Rochester, Est.1954

Resurrection, Rochester, Est.1967

St. Thomas More Newman Ctr, Mankato, Being Built

St. Anthony of Padua, Altura, Est.1919

St. Francis of Assisi, Rochester, Est.1937

Queen of Peace, Lyle, Est.1946

Saint Katherine, Truman, Est.1954

Pax Christi, Rochester, Est.1973

Correction from previous issue: St. Mary, Chatfield, Est. 1866

St. Thomas More Newman Ctr, Mankato, Est.1921

Christ the King, Medford, Est.1943

Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Winona, Est.1948

St. Joseph the Worker, Mankato, Est.1954

St. Mary, Caledonia, Est.1976

Thank you for joining us in this journey through the history of our faith family!

November, 2014 w The Courier

Diocesan Office of the Tribunal

November, 2014

Frequently Asked Questions about

Marriage Annulment in the Catholic Church

Presented by the

Diocese of Winona Office of the Tribunal

The Courier

Diocesan Office of the Tribunal

November, 2014

D

The Courier, Special Insert, page 2

ear brothers and sisters in Christ,

In her mission to spread the Good News and to assist people in leading lives of holiness, the Church makes every effort to uphold the dignity and sacramentality of marriage. So important is marriage and the family to society and culture that Pope Francis has recently made this the theme of a 2014 and 2015 synod in the Church.

Our Lord elevated the dignity of marriage from a natural to a supernatural institution at the Wedding Feast of Cana, wherein he changed water into wine. This means that, in addition to the civil contract created between each couple at marriage, among the baptized there is also the grace of a permanent bond wherein the couple is consecrated to each other, in their love, and assisted in a special way with the graces necessary to fulfill all that marriage entails: the good of their spouse and the procreation and education of children, as they assist one another in their journey toward eternal salvation.

Sometimes, for various reasons, the inability for couples to sustain a common life presents significant challenges, both spiritual and otherwise. In certain instances the Church, as a moral guide divinely established by Christ, may discern all of the elements necessary for a valid marriage were not present at the time of consent. The judgment about this is entrusted by the Shepherds of the Church to the Tribunal. Many people have found peace and healing through the marriage nullity process, both in reflecting upon the events that transpired and in finding moral clarity regarding their marital status in the Church.

Presented below is a list of commonly asked questions about the Tribunal and the process for requesting a judgment regarding the validity of one’s marriage.

If you are interested in an examination of your previous marriage and/or seek freedom to marry in the Catholic Church, please contact your pastor and he will assist you in submitting a petition to begin this process.

Very Rev. Glenn K. Frerichs, JCL, Judicial Vicar

Is marriage a sacrament?

presumed to be valid. This presumption can be overturned if one or more of the essential elements or properties of marriage are excluded when consent is exchanged, or when a person’s mental illness makes it impossible to consent to marriage. Each marriage is examined based on the testimony of the spouses and credible witnesses.

A college of three judges makes a decision as to whether it is proven beyond a reasonable doubt that the marriage is invalid. This decision is not a moral judgment on the lives of the parties involved and it does not necessarily attribute blame to either party. The purpose of the investigation is to discern the nature of the bond that exists between the parties, rather than the parties themselves.

Marriage is a sacrament when both spouses are baptized.

Does the wedding have to take place in a Catholic Church?

This depends on the religion of both spouses. When the marriage is between two Catholics, the wedding must take place in a Catholic church or in Catholic chapel approved for weddings. When it is a marriage between a Catholic and a baptized non-Catholic, the wedding may also take place in the church building of the non-Catholic, with permission.

Can non-Catholics receive the sacrament of matrimony, too?

Any two people who are validly baptized enter into the Sacrament of Matrimony through the exchange of their mutual consent.

What are we consenting to in Marriage?

In the exchange of consent each person commits to the establishment of a permanent and exclusive partnership, which lasts until death, that is ordered to the good of his/her spouse and to the procreation and education of children.

Does a priest have to be present?

What are we consenting to in marriage?

The requirement for a priest or deacon to receive the marriage consent is ordinarily necessary for Catholics. Those marrying give the sacrament to each other. However, the priest or deacon acts as the official witness for the Catholic Church. Catholic persons intending to marry a non-Catholic before someone other than a Catholic minister may be dispensed from this requirement by the Bishop of the Diocese of Winona, or his delegate.

What about a marriage in which one or both are not baptized?

These marriages are considered a “natural bond” and presumed by the Catholic Church to be valid, although not sacramental.

Isn’t marriage forever?

Yes, the Catholic Church believes that every valid, sacramental and consummated marriage is absolutely indissoluble.

How then is it possible to declare a marriage invalid?

Marriages are established at the time couples exchange consent and are

My spouse was unfaithful and my marriage ended in divorce.

Isn’t infidelity a ground for a declaration of nullity?

Many applicants believe that if there has been infidelity in the marriage, this will automatically prove that the marriage was invalid. This is not correct.

Infidelity is a sin, but it does not in itself invalidate the consent that was given at the time of the wedding. There is a difference between never intending to be faithful from the beginning of the marriage and an indiscretion, even a serious one, that occurs years into the marriage. An episode of infidelity does not invalidate a marriage or guarantee a declaration of nullity.

Does receiving a declaration of nullity or calling my marriage invalid mean I was never married?

This is probably our most frequently asked question. The answer is no. Civilly, you were married. You went through a ceremony, pledged yourselves to each other, perhaps had children and built a home and a life together.

Religiously you entered into a partnership on the day of your wedding with the best of intentions. The Church attempts to determine whether all the elements of a valid bond were present on the day you consented to marriage.

• • • •

Did Did Did Did

you you you you

intend intend intend intend

to be faithful? to offer your life for the good of your spouse? to be open to children? that your relationship be permanent?

In addition, you must have the basic human ability to understand what you were agreeing to and freely to choose it.

More specifically, did you explicitly believe divorce to be an acceptable alternative to being in the relationship if it became unhappy? If you answer yes to this question, your marriage might be declared invalid. The Church

November, 2014

Diocesan Office of the Tribunal

The Courier, Special Insert, page 3

determines whether any or all the elements of a valid bond were absent at the time of consent.

What about couples married for many years? How can a long-term union later be declared invalid?

Many couples stay together for decades for the sake of their children, social appearances, personal business or family pressure. Though they have struggled mightily with their marriage, they have probably not been living in a community of life and love for a very long time. Merely “staying together” is much different than what the Church recognizes as the establishment of a true partnership. So it is possible for such a marriage to be declared null.

What is a Tribunal?

A Tribunal is a Church court made up of clergy and lay persons who are appointed by the Bishop to carry out marriage nullity trials. The Judicial Vicar is responsible for overseeing the work of the Tribunal on behalf of the Bishop; in the Diocese of Winona, this is Very Rev. Glenn Frerichs, JCL. The day-to-day operation of the Winona Tribunal is supervised by Bill Daniel, JCL, who also serves as a Judge. Msgr. Paul Heiting, Rev. David Wechter, and Rev. Bill Kulas serve as Judges and Julie Wright and Cindy Theis serve as notaries for the Tribunal.

What is the purpose of the Tribunal?

The primary function of the Tribunal is to receive the petitions of divorced persons who request the Catholic Church to determine whether or not they can be considered free to marry again in the Church. In receiving such petitions, the Tribunal conducts a marriage nullity trial according to the laws of the Church.

What happens if a marriage is declared invalid?

The Catholic Church requires that every affirmative decision (declaring that the marriage is proven to be invalid) be submitted to the judgment of a second panel of three Judges. This is called the Appellate Tribunal. Our ordinary Appellate Tribunal is the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, which can ratify Winona’s decision, decide to gather additional evidence, or overturn Winona’s decision. Appeals may also be made to the Pope’s own Tribunal, the Roman Rota.

to live out their lives as practicing Catholics without financial obstacles, the Diocese chooses to absorb the cost of the marriage nullity process. The costs are covered through parish assessments and the Annual Diocesan Catholic Ministries Appeal.

However, if a psychological assessment or professional counseling is required during the process or in anticipation of a future marriage, these costs are borne by the party.

Does a decision by the Tribunal have any civil effect?

No, not in this country. All of the civil effects of the divorce should have been settled in civil court; therefore a Tribunal decision has no effect on child custody, property rights, alimony, etc.

Does a Declaration of Invalidity affect the legitimacy of children?

No. Children born of an invalid union are legitimate, since the Church does not deny that the parties entered at least a civil union and had a marital relationship. The Catholic Church embraces each child as a gift from God. The law of the Catholic Church states that children born of a marriage that is later declared invalid are legitimate.

Does a Declaration of Invalidity affect the legitimacy of children?

Do all cases receive an affirmative decision?

No. Any case may result in either an affirmative decision or a negative decision.

Why would a negative decision be given?

Canon law states that all marriages are presumed to be valid until proven otherwise, thus protecting the Church’s teaching that marriage is permanent and indissoluble. A negative decision means that there is not sufficient evidence to overturn the presumption of validity in a particular marriage. It may not be proven to be invalid because it is valid or because, even if it is invalid, this has not been proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

If an affirmative decision is granted, does that mean both parties can marry?

After an affirmative decision is granted both parties are free to marry once they have fulfilled any conditions set forth by the Tribunal.

Why would conditions to remarriage be attached?

The Catholic Church wants to be certain that the same factors which caused the invalidity of the previous marriage are no longer present.

Professional counseling is sometimes required. The Tribunal may require an evaluation by a psychologist or counselor to verify that both parties have the proper intentions and are capable of assuming the obligations and responsibilities of a new marriage.

Is there a fee for Tribunal services?

No, the Diocese of Winona requires no charge from either party. Because it is very important to the Diocese that applicants are fully able

Is there a fee for Tribunal services?

How do I begin the marriage nullity process?

Generally speaking, a person contacts their local parish and speaks with their pastor. The process may not begin until it is proven that reconciliation of the spouses is impossible; this is usually verified by the presentation of a civil divorce decree. Together, the petitioning party (applicant) and their pastor fill out the application for a marriage nullity trial. The party may also request that an Advocate, who is expert in canon law and the marriage nullity process, be appointed to assist with preparing the application. There is no charge for the service of our Advocates. Once the forms have been completed, they are sent to the Tribunal office along with the following documents: • Marriage Certificate • Divorce Decree • Baptismal Certificate of the Catholic Party

Diocesan Office of the Tribunal

November, 2014

How long will the process take?

Each case is different. Some cases are completed within one month, when it is a matter of verifying simple facts (e.g., a Catholic got married only civilly, a dispensation was missing, etc). However, most cases require a lengthier process. Under ideal circumstances these cases are completed in about a year and a half. However, this is not a guarantee. No plans for a future marriage in the Catholic Church may be made unless BOTH parties to a new marriage are declared free to marry.

Must the other spouse be contacted by the Tribunal?

Yes. The citation of the other spouse (the Respondent) is an essential part of the marriage nullity trial. Canon Law requires notification so that the rights of all parties to be informed and involved are protected.

The Courier, Special Insert, page 4

Can a divorced Catholic receive Communion?

Yes, there is nothing in divorce itself that prevents a divorced Catholic from receiving the Eucharist and the Sacraments of Penance and Anointing of the Sick.

However, persons who attempt a subsequent marriage, without first having their marriage declared null, are to refrain from receiving the Eucharist.

Can a divorced Catholic receive Communion?

Why should a person whose marriage has ended in divorce seek the services of the Tribunal?

What if the whereabouts of the other spouse is unknown?

There are many reasons, practical ones, but also spiritual, too. First of all, every Catholic has a right to know their canonical status in the Catholic Church. Secondly, the process can be a profoundly healing experience – healing within one’s self, with the Church, with significant others in one’s life and above all with the Lord.

Why should my ex-spouse cooperate with the process?

If I am a divorced Protestant and entering into a second marriage with a Catholic, am I required to go through the marriage nullity process?

The Tribunal will ask the Petitioner to make every effort to discover the present whereabouts of the other spouse. However, if he or she cannot be contacted, the case may proceed in the absence of the Respondent.

Why should my ex-spouse cooperate with the process?

The Respondent (other spouse) is one of the principal parties to the marriage being examined. The Tribunal wants to obtain a clear and objective picture of what happened in the marriage, why the union ended and what elements, if any, were missing when the couple exchanged vows.

The cooperation of both spouses is clearly beneficial in this endeavor. Secondly, the process is potentially beneficial to both parties, and so it is in their best interest to cooperate fully and honestly.

What if the other spouse refuses to cooperate?

Because this procedure affects both parties, the other spouse must be cited and given the opportunity to participate. If he or she does not wish to cooperate, the Tribunal will make a decision on the basis of the information available.

Are witnesses necessary?

Yes. The Tribunal will ask both spouses to provide names and contact information of people who are willing to assist the Tribunal in gaining a better understanding of the facts before and during the marriage, and the reasons why the union ended.

Can anyone be a witness?

Witnesses should be chosen on the basis of their objective knowledge about either one or both of the spouses, or the marriage.

Since the validity of the marriage rests upon the moment of consent (commonly called vows), the best witnesses are often those persons who have known the parties since before the marriage began. This could include parents, family, friends or counselors. Citing children of the marriage or a present partner is discouraged.

Who makes the final decision?

The Diocese of Winona assigns three Judges to decide each case.

Because the spouses exchange consent, and not the minister, the Catholic Church recognizes the validity of sacramental marriages among other denominations, and does not place requirements upon the manner in which their consent is exchanged. However, it does retain the right to judge the validity of marital unions for the moral clarity of persons involved. Since the Catholic Church presumes that all marriages are valid until it is proven otherwise, baptized non-Catholics are to go through the marriage nullity process even if neither party to the first marriage was Catholic.

What happens if we don’t receive a Declaration of Nullity?

The parties should contact their pastor and talk to them about their marital status in the Church. The pastor may suggest one of several alternatives: • If new grounds can be established, the case can be re-submitted in the local Tribunal.

• The original case may be appealed to the Appellate Tribunal in St. Paul or to the Roman Rota in Rome, Italy.

• A person may remain single and in full communion with the Catholic Church.

In closing, please know that we recognize the spiritual and emotional challenges of this process and the fear you or a family member may have before beginning it if you find yourself in such circumstances.

Each person is infinitely valuable before God's eyes and ours. You are never "just an applicant." We strive to do all we can to help make this a graced experience. We also thank pastors for their important role in assisting those who participate in the annulment process.

Do you have other questions about the Marriage nullity process in the Catholic Church? Please contact your pastor or the Office of the Tribunal in the Diocese of Winona: www.dow.org/Departments/Tribunal jwright@dow.org

Is a divorced person excommunicated from the Catholic Julie Wright, Ecclesiastical Notary Church?

Or No, this is certainly not the case and never has been. A Catholic is not excommunicated when s/he is divorced. A divorced person remains fully and completely a member of the Catholic Church.

ctheis@dow.org Cindy Theis, Ecclesiastical Notary

Diocese of Winona, Office of the Tribunal 55 W. Sanborn | PO Box 588 | Winona, MN 55987 | 507.858.1263 Photo credits: http://nationaldayofprayer.org, http://weddingcakesx.com/wedding-rings, http://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/, http://www.smadata.com/wedding-rings-rose-flower, http://www.catholicchapterhouse.com/blog/, http://i.huffpost. com/gen/1396233/thumbs/o-HANDS-WEDDING-RINGS-facebook.jpg, http://www.cvilleindustries.com/

The Diocese of Winona Thanks Her Celebration Sponsors

November, 2014 w The Courier

November, 2014

Special Anniversary Edition

The Diocese of Winona Thanks Her Celebration Sponsors

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Introducing the Institute of Lay Formation Class of 2014-16 - Saint Pope John Paul II, Christifidelis Laici, #58

The diocesan INSTITUTE OF LAY FORMATION is a program of prayer, study, and reflection on the Catholic Faith and on the life of discipleship and service within the Church.

The Institute began in the Diocese in the fall of 1998. Since that time, there have been five Institute classes, and 256 lay people have participated in the Institute’s formation process – representing 67 parishes and four church institutions of the Diocese.

This fall, a new class of the Institute has begun its formation journey. The class is comprised of 54 lay people from across the diocese, representing 27 parishes. There are 37 women and 17 men, and their ages range from 17 to 74. In the class, there are four married couples participating together.

The members of our new diocesan Institute of Lay Formation class are: Katie Baustian – Saint Catherine Parish, Luverne Kristin Bergin – Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Parish, Winona Monica Burtis – Saint John Vianney Parish, Fairmont Dr. Scott P. Burtis – Saint John Vianney Parish, Fairmont Mary Christensen – Saint James Parish, St. James Steven Ciavarelli – Saint Theodore Parish, Albert Lea Doreen Coleman – Holy Family Parish, Kasson Arlo Drees – Queen of Angels Parish, Austin Janet Durheim – Saint James Parish, St. James Mark M. Engesser – Sacred Heart Parish, Adams Kate Errthum – Saint Mary Parish, Winona Donna Mack Fakler – Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Parish, Winona Kathy Foerster – Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Parish, Winona Sonya Fujan – Saint John Vianney Parish, Fairmont Bou Gazley – Holy Spirit Parish, Rochester Thomas Gibson – Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Parish, Winona Mary Jane Guy – Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Parish, Winona Mary Hamann – Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Parish / Diocese of Winona, Winona Jenny Hendrickson – Saint Columbanus Parish, Blooming Prairie Norb Kelly – Saint Patrick Parish, Lanesboro Peggy Koan – Sacred Heart Parish, Owatonna Joyce Lynn Lehman – Pax Christi Parish, Rochester Mary Meine – Resurrection Parish, Rochester P a t r i c k Merrick – Saint Anthony Parish, Westbrook Shelly Merrick – Saint Parish, Many parishes throughout the dio- Anthony Westbrook cese are committed to offer consolation to the Heart of Christ through Larry Mihm – Pax Christi Parish, Rochester a Mass of Reparation.

Joe Nemcik – Queen of Please go online to Angels Parish, Austin Thomas B. Newell – Saint visit Theodore Parish, Albert dowcourier.org Lea to see the Barry Peratt – Cathedral complete Mass list. of the Sacred Heart

Masses of Reparation for Sins

Parish, Winona Jean Peterson – Saint Bernard Parish, Stewartville Brooke Pronschinske – Saint Joseph Parish, Rushford Maureen Pronschinske – Saint Joseph Parish, Rushford Betty Radke – Diocese of Winona, Winona Shannon Reker – Saint Adrian Parish, Adrian Lynn Richters – Saint Catherine Parish, Luverne Mary Robinson – Holy Redeemer Parish, Eyota Shane Roessler – Sacred Heart Parish, Waseca Cathy Roetzler – Resurrection Parish, Rochester Beth Rose – Saint Mary Parish, Winona Eric Rose – Saint John the Evangelist Parish, Rochester Sharon Schouweiler – Saint Joachim Parish, Plainview Kim Shimak-Hansen – Resurrection Parish, Rochester Todd Graff Leslie Slater – Our Lady Director of Good Counsel Parish, tgraff@dow.org Wilmont / Saint Adrian Parish, Adrian MaryAnne Smith – Saint Ann Parish, Slayton Travis Smith – Saint Ann Parish, Slayton Mark Paul Snater – Saint Augustine Parish, Austin Patrice Steier – Resurrection Parish, Rochester Tom Stoltman-Hamilton – Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Parish, Winona Jean C. Weland – Resurrection Parish, Rochester Jeridiah Welti – Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Parish, Winona Kelly Welti – Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Parish, Winona Becky Wendler – Saint John Vianney Parish, Fairmont Debra Wobschall – Sacred Heart Parish, Waseca Ann Woodford – Saint Mary Parish, Minneiska.

Lay Formation

The fundamental objective of the formation of the lay faithful is an ever-clearer discovery of one’s vocation and the ever-greater willingness to live it so as to fulfill one’s mission.

9

The class will meet for nine Saturday sessions from September through April, with an optional weekend retreat at the conclusion of the year. The majority of each Saturday session is devoted to instruction, discussion, reflection, and prayer. The primary text of their study is the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

The purpose of the Institute is to form its students for a deeper living of their lay vocation both in their witness to the world (in their families, neighborhoods, work places, etc.) and in their service within the Church (as catechists, liturgical ministers, youth leaders, etc.).

Please keep this new class of the Institute of Lay Formation in your prayers as they begin this journey of study, prayer, and reflection together. Deo Gratias!

The laity can also feel called, or in fact be called, to cooperate with their pastors in the service of the ecclesial community, for the sake of its growth and life. This can be done through the exercise of different kinds of ministries according to the grace and charisms which the Lord has been pleased to bestow on them. - Blessed Pope Paul VI, Evangelii Nuntiandi, #73 November, 2014 w The Courier

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Paul VI, Moving Mountains cont'd from pg. 1

By the time you read this, we will be only days away from what we hope will be the first of many conferences for women in our diocese. I would ask now only for your prayers. Since we began this endeavor there has been so much grace, but spiritual attack as well. I often find the old saying so true, "Wherever you find the hand of God, so, too, is the tail of the devil." Yet, we can have courage! For if the enemy wishes to disrupt our plans, we must be doing something right!

God is with us. He is here; He is present; and He loves each and every one of us. He is with you as you pray for us. He is with one of our speakers who was not able to come due to a medical emergency. He is with the many people who have volunteered to help us on Saturday with set-up, catering, clean-up and all the many little things in between. He is with every woman who has registered for the conference and might be facing different life circumstances of their own.

We do not need to be afraid; we need only to pray. We need only to believe that He will do what He promised us. As Gideon learns in the Old Testament, and Blessed Mother Teresa was also fond of saying, "it is not our job to be successful; it's our job to be faithful." We are faithful when we walk in His ways, even when we don't see the results. We are faithful when we care for our spouse, our children, our parents, our siblings, our friends, our neighbors or even strangers. When we care for others in those small moments that no one sees but you and God, we are faithful.

We gather this month to push back against a mountain, against a tsunami of radical ideology that continues to undermine the true dignity of womanhood in every area of Theresa Martin society.

Endow Coordinator Yet, how can we move a Endow@dow.org mountain? How can a group of women stop a tsunami of cultural influence? We don't have to stop it; we don't have to move it. That is God's job. We have to stand fearless before it proclaiming the truth in Christ regardless of whether it looks like just a drop in the ocean or not. We must stand. When others ridicule us, we must stand. When we think it hopeless, we must stand. When it feels everyone has turned against us, we must stand. It is God who is our strength. We no longer need to cry out in despair to God at how big that mountain is nor how massive the tsunami, no. We need to stand in the way of the tsunami, before the mountain, and fearlessly exclaim how great is our God!

Faith Formation

tile society, (Blessed Paul) could hold fast, with farsightedness and wisdom -- and at times alone -- to the helm of the barque of Peter," Pope Francis said, in a possible allusion to "Humanae Vitae," the late pope's 1968 encyclical, which affirmed Catholic teaching against contraception amid widespread dissent.

The pope pronounced the rite of beatification at the start of the Mass. Then Sister Giacomina Pedrini, a member of the Sisters of Holy Child Mary, carried up a relic: a bloodstained vest Blessed Paul was wearing during a 1970 assassination attempt in the Philippines. Sister Pedrini is the last surviving nun who attended to Blessed Paul.

In his homily, Pope Francis did not explicitly mention "Humanae Vitae," the single achievement for which Blessed Paul is best known today. Instead, the pope highlighted his predecessor's work presiding over most of Vatican II and establishing the synod.

The pope quoted Blessed Paul's statement that he intended the synod to survey the "signs of the times" in order to adapt to the "growing needs of our time and the changing conditions of society."

Looking back on the two-week family synod, Pope Francis called

it a "great experience," whose members had "felt the power of the Holy Spirit who constantly guides and renews the church."

The pope said the family synod demonstrated that "Christians look to the future, God's future ... and respond courageously to whatever new challenges come our way."

The synod, dedicated to "pastoral challenges of the family," touched on sensitive questions of sexual and medical ethics and how to reach out to people with ways of life contrary to Catholic teaching, including divorced and civilly remarried Catholics, cohabitating couples and those in same-sex unions.

"God is not afraid of new things," Pope Francis said. "That is why he is continually surprising us, opening our hearts and guiding us in unexpected ways. He renews us; he constantly makes us new."

A valued degree.

Kelly Boles had a good job and a full life at home, but he wanted more. He wanted a degree, and more importantly, one that was grounded in Catholic Benedictine values. The College of St. Scholastica made all that possible.

Today, with degree in hand, he is prepared not only for life’s opportunities, but for his life’s purpose.

On-site and online classes through the Rochester location allowed Kelly to earn his degree in a way that worked with his busy schedule.

Kelly Boles | BA ’14 Computer Information Systems Rochester Campus

MINNESOTA

November, 2014 w The Courier

|

ARIZONA

|

ONLINE

rochester.css.edu

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507-424-0144

Wake up the World!

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Faith Formation

Wake up the world! Who me? Yes, me! Hopefully you will join can all respond to Pope Francis’ me, too, in responding to Pope Francis’ call to “Wake Up the World.” call during this Year of the Pope Francis has declared that an upcoming 14-month period Consecrated Life: shall be observed as the “Year of Consecrated Life”: beginning on the first Sunday of Advent, November 30, 2014, until February 1. At supper one night, tell 2, 2016, which is also the World Day of Consecrated Life. This family members about a religious who has meant something year marks the 50th anniversary of the publication of the Second to you, perhaps someone you met in school, in the hospital, Vatican Council's decree on religious life Perfectæ caritatis, and in the parish or elsewhere. its Dogmatic Constitution on the Church Lumen gentium, which 2. Make 10 minutes for silent reading of Sacred Scripture. Offer includes a specific chapter dealing with consecrated life. this time for the intention of those considering Consecrated In reflecting Life. on those personally comSr. Paul Mary 3. Pray in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament for the mitted to conRittgers, R.S.M. intention of vocations to the Consecrated Life. secrated life, Director 4. Encourage the inclusion of prayers for vocations to the Pope Francis faithformation@dow.org Consecrated Life in the Prayer of the Faithful at Sunday Mass says, “They are men and in your parish. woman who can awaken the world. Consecrated life is prophecy.

5. Learn about the different types of consecrated life – did you know that God asks us to fly the nest and to be sent to the frontiers of the consecrated persons include religious brothers and sisters, members of world, avoiding the temptation to 'domesticate' them. This is the secular institutes, hermits, and consecrated virgins? most concrete way of imitating the Lord.”

According to the Vatican, the intention of this yearlong celebraIdeas for children: tion is three-fold. First, it is an occasion to make a grateful remem1. Pray for vocations to the consecrated life. brance of the recent past, while also embracing the future with hope. Secondly, this year is an opportunity to grow in depth, and 2. Invite local consecrated religious to talk to your schools. thus in hope, motivated by the certainty that the consecrated life 3. Plan a service activity at a monastery or convent. will never disappear from the Church, because it was desired by 4. Study saints who were members of the consecrated life.

Jesus himself as an irremovable part of the Church. Cardinal Braz de Aviz, prefect of the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Visit our website at http://www.dow.org/consecratedlife for even more Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, said that “women and men ideas of ways that you and your family can celebrate this Year of Consecrated religious remain full of hope, based not on their own powers, but on Life. trust in the Lord. In Him,” he said, “no one can rob us of our hope.” The third objective is living the present passionately, a moment for helping people to realize, according to Cardinal Braz de Aviz, “the beauty of following Christ” in the various types of religious vocations.

1. The entire month of November is dedicated to the Souls in Purgatory whose feast is celebratSo, what can you do to help awaken the world to the ed on November 2. Throughout the month, make it a point to pray for the poor souls in purgabeauty of the consecrated life? Here are a few ways we tory.

Celebrate Our Faith Throughout November!

2. Nov. 10 – In honor of Pope St. Leo the Great, who is often known for his great eloquence and writing skills, write a letter to someone you have not talked to in a while, or send a card to someone who might need some encouragement.

3. Nov. 11 – In honor of St. Martin of Tours, who is the patron saint of soldiers, say a prayer for those in the military and for their families. If you know someone in the military, thank them for their service today & let them know you are praying for their safety.

4. Nov. 15 - Find a fun (age appropriate!) science experiment or activity to celebrate the feast day of St. Albert the Great, patron saint of scientists.

5. Nov. 16 - In honor of the feast of St. Margaret of Scotland, who gave gifts and food to the poor and needy, look for a program to buy Christmas gifts for a needy child, either in your community or across the world.

6. Nov. 17 - Bake bread together to deliver to friends and neighbors (especially those most in need of some extra love) in honor of the feast day of St. Elizabeth of Hungary, who is the patron saint of bakers and of the poor.

7. Nov. 21 – Pray the Rosary in honor of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

8. Nov. 22 – In honor of St. Cecilia, patron saint of music, attend a musical performance or just have a family sing along/dance party at home.

9. Nov. 27, THANKSGIVING – Go to Mass, and give thanks for the ultimate gift of Our Lord’s sacrifice. Did you know that the word “Eucharist” comes from the Greek noun “eucharistia” which means thanksgiving?

10. Nov. 30 - To celebrate the Feast of Christ the King, make a King cake or cake/dessert shaped like a crown as a “sweet” way to mark this feast on the last Sunday of the Liturgical Year.

11. Nov. 30 - Have a fish dinner to celebrate the feast day of St. Andrew the apostle, who we know was also a fisherman with his brother Simon Peter. It would be nice to also say a prayer for those that work to produce the food.

November, 2014 w The Courier

Catholic Schools

12 Lourdes High School celebrates their 2014-2015 Homecoming! Students participated in many fun events and honored their homecoming royalty.

2014-2015 Homecoming Royalty: Stefan Farrugia, Catherine Cunningham, Adam Hannan, Grace Dearani, Sam Hyberger, Nora Freetly, Kieran McDonnell (King), Marielle Kamath (Queen), James Ustby, Brenna Sherman.

The Pacelli Homecoming Court following Coronation. Left to Right: Nick He, Tiffany Hoesing, Jwokamer DeBock, Devon Dorsey, Queen Maggie Leif, King Johnson Cui, Katherine Ethen, Sarah Kahle, Dakota Janning, Anthony Servellon.

Cotter Schools celebrates Homecoming with excitement.

Homecoming 2014 Loyola Catholic High School students pose for their all school Homecoming photo with the Homecoming Court featured out in front.

November, 2014 w The Courier

Adoption is the Loving Option Our Adoption Stor y

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Adoption – A Wonderful Way to Build a Family

Catholic Charities offers Adoption Informational Meetings at its various office locations to help families get the answers they need about the adoption process.

Call your local office for more information Rochester – 507-287-2047 Mankato 507-387-5586 Winona – 507-454-2270 Worthington 507-376-9757 After being married for 5 years and not being able to have children we felt God was calling us to adoption. In July 2011, we turned in our application to Catholic Charities and had our background checks completed. We moved forward with our home study and we were finally approved for the waiting list! I found myself checking the list on a regular basis to see if anyone else on the list had been matched with a birth mom. We were always excited to see someone being matched, especially if they were ahead of us on the list.

We continued to wait and just after a year on the waiting list our social worker called to tell us that there was a baby for us if we said yes to the situation. This was so hard we knew the birth mom had drank a lot, tested positive for drugs, and was 6 weeks early. We had the day to decide if we were going to say yes or no.

How could we say no to a baby? This is what we wanted and waited for. It was probably the longest and shortest day of our lives. We called our parents and grandparent for advice and prayers. We got the best piece of advice from our priest who told us to pray before we make our decision even if we only have 1 minute to pray you know you will make the right decision after you pray about it. As we sat in the car we held each other’s hand and prayed that God would guide us to the right by: Kristina, Nick & Maximus

decision. We decided to say no and felt okay with our decision.

We were at about a year and a half when we moved into the first spot on the list. Not that any number on the list meant anything but spot one was the place to be. We thought that we should be a little prepared at this point and asked some family members for some clothes, a bassinet, and a car seat. The week before Thanksgiving we got a call from our social worker and said that she had a birth mom that wanted to meet us.

She gave us some information on her and the baby and asked us if we would like to meet her. We met her the next week. We were so nervous and so was she but the meeting went great. The birth mom had told us that she would dream about us and knew that we were the family for her baby. The day before Thanksgiving our social worker called us to tell us that she was officially picking us. The baby was not due until March 1st, 2014 so we had some time to get to know each other.

We had one meeting a month and e-mailed back and forth. The meetings went great and she started feeling like family to us. We had our last meeting with her on January 28th. At this meeting we had decided that the birth mom would call us when she went into labor and then when she was ready for us to come over and meet our son. After the meeting we took her home and

Placing a child for adoption is the greatest sacrifice a person could ever make.

Because of one such person we have our daughter ... now we are four souls forever connected.

This turned out to be a true blessing and the best gift we could have received - a gift from God.

Adoption has been a blessed event in our lives. We can’t imagine loving anyone as much as our child. He has been the joy of our lives and has allowed his parents the opportunity of having a family. We are extremely grateful to his birthmother for bringing him into our world.

Quotes from Families

I am the luckiest mom in the world! I have 2 beautiful children through adoption; thanks to Catholic Charities and the courageous love of their birthparent.

Maximus, cont'd on pg. 14

In the Diocese

Thinking about Adopting?

Want to learn more about Adoption?

Life is a Gift.

You Can Help.

You know that life is a gift from God. You also know that the gift often comes at difficult times. You can help precisely at those times. Catholic Charities’ Mother and Child Assistance Fund helps pregnant women and women with babies with rent, medical expenses, educational assistance, doula services, child care assistance and parenting education. It helps birthmothers carry their baby to term by providing the direct support they need to work through difficult situations that they and their baby may face. Hear the moving testimonies of women who benefited from this fund have to say: This fund is a blessing that I will never forget Thank you - Anonymous I believe it will help me get on my feet. When the baby is born I can get a job and maybe help someone too. - Robin It will help us from having to live on the streets or in our car. - Amber Much needed help during a time in my life that I never expected would be so difficult. - Lea Ann Provide a home for me and my unborn child. - Vada It will give me an opportunity to get on my feet through these hard times and help me become a responsible adult. - Anonymous The Mother Child fund will help provide stability. To receive rent help will provide me a greater focus on job hunting and a good start. - Anonymous The Mother and Child Assistance Fund is supported by generous donations. To help, please send your donation to:

Catholic Charities Mother & Child Assistance Fund 111 Market St. PO Box 379 Winona, MN 55987 Visit our website at www.ccwinona.org for Pregnancy, Parenting and Adoption Information or call 1-800-222-5859.

Adoption Day Celebration!

Date: Saturday November 15 (Registration and gathering at 11 a.m.)

Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Potluck lunch, Bring a dish to share! Beverage & dessert provided.

Cookie Decorating: 12 p.m. Magic Show and Face Painting: 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Place: Church of St Bridget: 2123 County Rd 16 SE, Rochester, MN 55904

RSVP: To Jenna by November 7th 507-387-5586 ext. 2 or jmiller@ccwinona.org Please include number of family attending.

November, 2014 w The Courier

From the Synod, cont'd from Page 1

confronted in haste and without the courage to have patience and reflect, to make sacrifices and to forgive one another. Failures give rise to new relationships, new couples, new civil unions, and new marriages, creating family situations which are complex and problematic, where the Christian choice is not obvious.

We think also of the burden imposed by life in the suffering that can arise with a child with special needs, with grave illness, in deterioration of old age, or in the death of a loved one. We admire the fidelity of so many families who endure these trials with courage, faith, and love.

They see them not as a burden inflicted on them, but as something in which they themselves give, seeing the suffering Christ in the weakness of the flesh.

We recall the difficulties caused by economic systems, by the “the idolatry of money and the dictatorship of an impersonal economy lacking a truly human purpose” (Evangelii gaudium 55) which weakens the dignity of people. We remember unemployed parents who are powerless to provide basic needs for their families, and youth who see before them days of empty expectation, who are prey to drugs and crime.

We think of so many poor families, of those who cling to boats in order to reach a shore of survival, of refugees wandering without hope in the desert, of those persecuted because of their faith and the human and spiritual values which they hold. These are stricken by the brutality of war and oppression. We remember the women who suffer violence and exploitation, victims of human trafficking, children abused by those who ought to have protected them and fostered their development, and the members of so many families who have been degraded and burdened with difficulties. “The culture of prosperity deadens us…. all those lives stunted for lack of opportunity seem a mere spectacle; they fail to move us” (Evangelii gaudium 54).

We call on governments and international organizations to promote the rights of the family for the common good.

Christ wanted his Church to be a house with doors always open to welcome everyone. We warmly thank our pastors, lay faithful, and communities who accompany couples and families and care for their wounds. *** There is also the evening light behind the windowpanes in the houses of the cities, in modest residences of suburbs and villages, and even in mere shacks, which shines out brightly, warming bodies and souls. This light— the light of a wedding story—shines from the encounter between spouses: it is a gift, a grace expressed, as the Book of Genesis says (2:18), when the two are “face to face” as equal and mutual helpers. The love of man and woman teaches us that each needs the other in order to be truly self. Each remains different from the other that opens self and is revealed in the reciprocal gift. It is this that the bride of the Song of Songs sings in her canticle: “My beloved is mine and I am his… I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine” (Song of Songs 2:16; 6:3).

This authentic encounter begins with courtship, a time of waiting and preparation. It is realized in the sacrament where God sets his seal, his presence, and grace.

This path also includes sexual relationship, tenderness, intimacy, and beauty capable of lasting longer than the

In the Diocese

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November, 2014 w The Courier

vigor and freshness of youth. Such love, of its nature, strives to be forever to the point of laying down one’s life for the beloved (cf Jn 15:13). In this light conjugal love, which is unique and indissoluble, endures despite many difficulties. It is one of the most beautiful of all miracles and the most common.

This love spreads through fertility and generativity, which involves not only the procreation of children but also the gift of divine life in baptism, their catechesis, and their education. It includes the capacity to offer life, affection, and values—an experience possible even for those who have not been able to bear children. Families who live this light-filled adventure become a sign for all, especially for young people.

This journey is sometimes a mountainous trek with hardships and falls. God is always there to accompany us. The family experiences his presence in affection and dialogue between husband and wife, parents and children, sisters and brothers. They embrace him in family prayer and listening to the Word of God—a small, daily oasis of the spirit. They discover him every day as they educate their children in the faith and in the beauty of a life lived according to the Gospel, a life of holiness.

Grandparents also share in this task with great affection and dedication. The family is thus an authentic domestic Church that expands to become the family of families which is the ecclesial community. Christian spouses are called to become teachers of faith and of love for young couples as well.

Another expression of fraternal communion is charity, giving, nearness to those who are last, marginalized, poor, lonely, sick, strangers, and families in crisis, aware of the Lord’s word, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). It is a gift of goods, of fellowship, of love and mercy, and also a witness to the truth, to light, and to the meaning of life.

The high point which sums up all the threads of communion with God and neighbor is the Sunday Eucharist when the family and the whole Church sits at table with the Lord. He gives himself to all of us, pilgrims through history towards the goal of the final encounter when “Christ is all and in all” (Col 3:11). In the first stage of our Synod itinerary, therefore, we have reflected on how to accompany those who have been divorced and remarried and on their participation in the sacraments.

We Synod Fathers ask you walk with us towards the next Synod. The presence of the family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph in their modest home hovers over you.

United to the Family of Nazareth, we raise to the Father of all our petition for the families of the world: Father, grant to all families the presence of strong and wise spouses who may be the source of a free and united family.

Father, grant that parents may have a home in which to live in peace with their families.

Father, grant that children may be a sign of trust and hope and that young people may have the courage to forge life-long, faithful commitments.

Father, grant to all that they may be able to earn bread with their hands, that they may enjoy serenity of spirit and that they may keep aflame the torch of faith even in periods of darkness.

Father, grant that we may all see flourish a Church that is ever more faithful and credible, a just and humane city, a world that loves truth, justice and mercy.

Taken from the Vatican Press Office, origianl document may be found at: http://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2014/10/18/0768/03043.html

Maximus , cont'd from pg.13

met her family, saw where she lived, and went out for supper. The last meeting had a different vibe than the rest since it was our last and things were coming to an end…but the beginning of something wonderful. We got home around 9 pm and stayed up talking about how excited we were and that we couldn’t believe our son was going to be here in about a month.

The next morning my phone rang at 9:05 am. It was our social worker. She asked me if I was sitting down. I said, “Yes I was lying in bed” and in the 5 seconds she paused my heart sank and I thought that the birth mom had changed her mind. Boy was I ever wrong! She said the birth mom had the baby that morning at 5:23 am. I was so shocked I said, “Shut-up! I hate that word but oh my gosh!” “It’s too early…Is the baby and the birth mom okay?”

Nick rolled over and asked me, “What is wrong?”

“She had the baby!” “What!???” We packed our bags and headed to the hospital. We met our social worker at 3:00 pm. They took us to our room that the hospital graciously gave us to stay in. It was about 5:00 pm and the birth mom was ready for us to come and meet our son. We went to her room and she said to him are you ready to meet your mommy? She handed him to me and he was perfect. All 4lbs. 11oz. and 17 ¼ inches of him was doing great. He had no monitors or oxygen which surprised us since he was a month and 3 days early. Now we had to pick a name. We had a few picked out but wanted to see him before we chose the name. I thought he looked like a Maximus or Maximillian and Nick thought he looked like a John Paul. We looked up each of the saints and reread their stories to see if that would help…nope it made it worse. They were all amazing men. I looked at Nick and said, “How about Maximus John after your grandfather.” As a tear formed in the corner of his eye he said, “That’s it.”

We had an amazing time with the birth mom and her family. I was so worried that we would not have a connection with Maximus and he would not feel like our child. It was so amazing on the second day we got the greatest gift. We were visiting with the birth mom’s family and while Nick was talking Maximus opened his eyes and looked right at us and everyone noticed that he recognized us. It was the most magical moment. I could not believe how quickly Maximus could recognize and be calmed down by the sound of our voices. When I was walking back to our room with Maximus a lady in the hall stopped me to look at Maximus and asked me if I was his grandma. It actually made me laugh and I calmly told her, “No I am his mommy.” I obviously did not look like a just gave birth to a baby so that was the most logical explanation.

By the third day we were ready to go home. Our social workers came, we had a prayer service, took some pictures; it was beautiful. I gave Maximus’s birth mom a hug and we shed some tears as I said, “I feel so bad for you.” “I cannot even imagine how hard this is for you.” Without hesitation she said, “Don’t feel bad for me I am so happy and excited for you.”

We have been so lucky to have an open adoption with Maximus’s birth mom. Right away we started talking to each other every day. We still talk about once a week. We send tons of pictures and chat on Facebook often. She came to his baptism and it was such a special day for all of us. We have seen each other a few times since his baptism. She has become such an important part of our lives that we cannot imagine it without her in it. She has truly given us the greatest gift. She is one of the most loving and unselfish people we know.

Theme Baskets, Children’s Games, Lunches and Polish Coffee Cakes SUBMISSION for the calendar for sale. Sun. Nov 23, Mass is at St. Mary’s Church, Winona 10 a.m.

A Roast Pork Dinner with offers a Mass for Life and Marriage on the first Please note: submission deadline Sauerkraut & Sausages served from Thursday of the month, at 5:15 p.m. is the 10th of the month prior to the 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Cost: $9.

Raffle, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona month of publication. All submissions Harvest Blessings Booth, Bake Sale, will host the monthly Holy Hour of Prayer for Life, must be sent electronically on our webMarriage, and Religious Liberty on Saturday, Nov Children’s Games, Theme Baskets, 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. after the 8 a.m. Mass. Candy Booth, and more. Big Ticket site: www.dowcourier.org drawing at 5:30 p.m.

Gather in the Adoration Chapel. or by emailing: Courier@dow.org St. Catherine’s, Luverne Prayer Vigil and Public Witness against Abortion and by the deadline in order to assure Fallfest '14!

Saturday, November Semcac Clinic is a delegate of Planned Parenthood – receipt and possible inclusion in the Events Calendar. the nation's leading abortion provider. Please consid- 8. Saturday Vigil Mass 4 p.m. er joining a local group from 3-4 p.m. each Tuesday Children’s Event 5 - 9. Adult Event We thank you for understanding that due to space limitations, in front of Semcac at 62 E 3rd Street in Winona for an at Blue Mound Banquet Center at not all events nor story submissions will fit; however, we strive to hour of prayer. Contact: Will Goodman 608-698-7443. 5. Dinner served at 6:30, $25 ticket. include as many as possible. Thank you! - Courier Staff Menu: Apple & Cornbread-Stuffed Pork Loin with Roasted Apple Gravy Parish Events or Almond Crusted chicken Breast Day Fun for Kids. Luncheon 11 a.m. with Honey Thyme Sauce St. Stanislaus Kostka, Winona 1 p.m. Raffle and more!

St. Mary's Parish, Rural Geneva Fall Festival November 22 & 23. Sat. Nov 22, 4 St. Charles Borromeo, St. Charles p.m. Mass. The Festival starts after Mass with Annual Soup and Pie Supper, Sunday, November Fr. John Ha Tran will be speaking on Dec 13 3 the Raffle, Harvest Blessings Booth, Bake Sale, 2, Serving 4 -7 p.m. Beef Vegetable Soup, Chicken p.m. - 4:30 p.m. His presentation will be on Trust Noodle, Chili, Bean with Ham, Country in God's merciful Eucharistic presence. There will Bread, Crackers and Assorted Pies, include exposition of the blessed sacrament with Traditional Latin Mass Coffee, Milk and Lemonade. Free will a host that has miraculously received the image offering. All you can eat! Delicious of Jesus.

Mankato, Ss. Peter and Paul, first Saturday Homemade Supper! St. Mary's Parish, Benedictine Center Issues Call to Artists from Geneva: East on Freeborn County Juried Art Show: January 29 thru March 6. The submonth, 9 a.m.

35, turn south on County Road 30, go mission deadline is January 14. Awards totaling Rochester (Simpson), St. Bridget, first and third one mile, the church is on the right. $375 will be distributed to the top three winners.

Sundays of the month, 1 p.m.

St. Charles Borromeo, St. Charles Called Seeing God. Contest rules, guidelines and Wabasha, St. Felix, weekly. Saturday 8 a.m.

Court St. Charles Catholic Daughters entry forms: www.stpaulsmonastery.org. Click on will host their annual Fall Luncheon and the Benedictine Center Chatfield, St. Mary's, Saturday morning, please Raffle on Sat, Nov 8 from 11:30 a.m. to tab and then “Art & check with the parish for the time.

1:30 p.m. at St. Charles Borromeo Church Spirituality.” Or call Commons Area. Entertainment pro- 651-777-7251; email: vided by Becky Schlegel. Presale lun- b e n e d i c t i n e c e n t e r @ The Televised Mass cheon tickets are $9 or $10 at the door. stpaulsmonastery.org Tickets available from Sandy Larson Offered as a service for the homebound and elderly. Every (507-932-0923).

Sunday on the following stations: KTTC-TV, Channel 10, Immaculate Conception, St. Clair Rochester at 9 a.m. KEYC-TV, Channel 12, Mankato at Winter Festival. "Celebrating St. Nicholas" on Sat. December 6.

7:30 a.m. Donations for the continuation of this program Christmas cookie and holuday treat may be sent to: TV Mass, PO Box 588, Winona MN For events at Assisi Heights: www.rochesterfranciscan.org and sale. 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Prettiest Pie 55987. click on “What’s Happening/Events.” For more info, call Angie and Cupcake Contest!

Deliver by Thank you for your donations to the TV Mass Grimm at 507-280-2195 or: ahsc@rochesterfranciscan.org.

9 a.m. on Sat. 10 a.m. St. Nicholas

Action with Prayer

15

Events in the Diocese

Hispanic Priests/Sacerdotes Hispanos: Padre Luis Alfonso Vargas: Capellán del Decanato de Worthington. lukiponcho@yahoo. es Tel. 507-341-0403 Padre José Morales: Capellán del Decanato de Rochester. jloralesr2008@yahoo.es Tel. 507-329-2931 Padre Mariano Varela IVE: Párroco de “SS. Peter and Paul”

en Mankato. mvarela@hickorytech. net Tel. 507-388-2995 ext 103 Padre Octavio Cortez IVE: Vicario Parroquial de “Ss. Peter and Paul” en Mankato Tel. 507-388-2995 Padre Raul Silva: Pastor de “All Saints” en New Richland, “St. Aidan” en Ellendale, “St. Mary” en Geneva padreraulsilva@gmail. com

Spanish Mass Schedule Albert Lea, St. Theodore, Spanish Mass, 11 a.m., every Sunday.

Austin, Queen of Angels, Spanish Mass at 11 a.m and 5 p.m. every Sunday.

Dodge Center, St. John Baptist de La Salle, Spanish Mass, 11 a.m., every Sunday.

Lake City, St. Mary, Spanish Mass, 6:30 p.m., every third Saturday.

Madelia, St. Mary, Spanish Mass, 10 a.m., every Sunday.

Mankato, Ss. Peter & Paul, Spanish Mass, 1 p.m., every Sunday.

Owatonna, Sacred Heart, Spanish Mass, 1 p.m. every Sunday.

Pipestone, St. Leo, Spanish Mass, 2:30 p.m., every Sunday Rochester, St. Francis of Assisi, Spanish Mass, 12 noon, every Sunday.

St. Charles, St. Charles

Borromeo, Spanish Mass, 11:30 a.m., every Sunday.

St. James, St. James, Spanish Mass, 12 p.m., every Sunday.

Waseca, Sacred Heart, Spanish Mass, 11:30 a.m., every Sunday.

Windom, St. Francis Xavier, Spanish Mass, 12 p.m., every Sunday Worthington, St. Mary, Spanish Mass, Saturday at 7 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.

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November, 2014 w The Courier

November, 2014 • The Courier