July/August 2019

FROM THE BISHOP

BONUS SPANISH CONTENT

Eucharist: The source of forgiveness, healing and grace IN THE KNOW WITH FATHER JOE

How do we teach our children about purity?

SPECIAL REPORT

U.S. Bishops increase accountability measures

DALE LA VUELTA PARA

ESPAÑOL

FROM THE BISHOP

GETTY IMAGES/JRROMAN

BISHOP EARL BOYEA

is the fifth bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing @BishopBoyea

Carlson Productions

EUCHARIST – THE SOURCE OF FORGIVENESS, HEALING AND GRACE

RECENTLY, SOMEONE ASKED ME why she should remain a Catholic given the sin and corruption present in clergy and other leaders in our Church. My answer was quite simply, “Because of the Eucharist.” In John’s Gospel, Chapter 6, after Jesus had explained how his very flesh and blood are to be our food, and after many of his disciples had walked away from him because of this, he asked those who remained, “Do you also want to leave?” Peter responded: “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”

If I were God, I would not have entrusted this sacred task of the Eucharist (or of the forgiveness of sins, for that matter) to a bunch of weak sinners. It should have been angels! However, God placed this ministry in these earthen vessels, presumably to indicate that they were not the source of such wonderful gifts but that Jesus was. His body and blood come to us through sinners, but they are divine treasures from the Lord Jesus himself. Where we might come up with a different, “better” way, this is the way he chose to remain with us until the end of time.

Now this is never an excuse for tolerance of immorality among the clergy. Quite the contrary! Standing in the place of Jesus places a greater burden to live out his chaste life, his simple life, his obedient life in the presence of God’s people. I am a sinner. I regularly go to confession. I repent. But mostly, I really do want to get to heaven, to be a saint. My efforts are always quite feeble, but I pray daily for God’s grace to make me what he has called me to be.

We priests are not obliged to celebrate Mass every day. However, I do so celebrate it and I need to continue this practice since that daily Eucharist is the only source of forgiveness, healing and grace that will ever move me slowly toward the prize of becoming like Jesus Christ. Since there is no other name by which we are saved, without that grace won by Christ, we would all be aiming for hell.

Thus, it is all the more remarkable that Jesus gave us his body and blood in the course both of a meal and a sacrifice on the cross. This act of love for us who don’t deserve it and that Jesus calls us his friends are tremendous consolations in this world. I cannot live without them and thus cannot walk away. And, frankly, I am drawn to the one who has chosen to love us so much. I want to be one with Jesus. That is more than enough reason for me to remain a Catholic and become a better one.

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FROM THE EDITOR

Ministry to the sick is a ministry of presence

I

THINK ALL OF US WOULD AGREE that being ill is no fun.

Being hospitalized for illness and surgery is even less fun. Illness or hospitalization can bring with them all sorts of stress. We wonder if we will ever feel better. We think about our mortality. Times of illness can bring out some of our deepest emotions and we can sometimes say things to others – especially to hospital staff, family members and friends – in ways that we might never otherwise speak. Illness is no easy experience because it makes us vulnerable on so many levels.

T.Gennera

FATHER DWIGHT EZOP

is the editor of FAITH Magazine and pastor of St. Mary Parish, Charlotte and St. Ann Church, Bellevue Email: editor@ FAITHpub.com.

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Times of illness can also make it difficult for us to pray. It’s not that we don’t realize the need for prayer – but being sick and tired can make it difficult for any of us to find the words for prayer. When it becomes difficult to pray, we can easily feel isolated from God. If we feel isolated from God, we can also feel isolated from the Church and the human community which it represents. Times of illness – especially times of chronic or severe illness – can make us feel very much alone, even when there might be others nearby.

Through my years of priestly ministry, I have come to understand that one of the most valuable forms of ministry that I can offer is visiting those who are hospitalized or homebound. What I have discovered is that most often all I have to do is show up. Jesus will take it from there.

Although I have my Oil of the Sick with me as well as the Eucharist, quite often just knocking on the door and entering the room where someone is sick can be enough to bring them a sense of peace and connectedness. With a simple greeting and a few words of prayer and brief conversation, Jesus enters the room and makes his way into the situation faced by the one who is homebound or hospitalized. The sign of the cross traced on a forehead and hands upraised in prayer can break down the layers of isolation felt by the person, providing a necessary sense of being part of the human community, the family of God, the Church.

As our parish populations continue to age, ministry to the homebound and hospitalized is becoming ever more critical. Family structures are not the same as they once were. It is not uncommon for adult children to have moved away and for family supports to be less tangible. Technology such as cell phones helps, but it is increasingly more common for our older parishioners to live alone. At the same time, members of our parish communities can offer invaluable support by visiting and praying with those who are hospitalized or homebound.

This kind of ministry usually requires a little bit of training, but most of all it requires the gift of our time, our faith and our willingness to just show up. Jesus can take it from there.

And so, our journey in FAITH continues.

FAITH Magazine | JULY/AUGUST 2019 | WWW.FAITHMAG.COM

YE A R OF

PR AY E R Forming Missionary Disciples RECOMMIT TO THE YEAR OF PRAYER As we continue our diocesan Year of Prayer, let us recommit to our goal of discerning the particular ways in which God is calling us to form missionary disciples. In addition to the prayer we say at Mass, Bishop Boyea has asked each family or household to pray a Marian devotion once a week, asking for the intercession of Mary, our patron and the first disciple. The Year of Prayer will conclude on the feast of Christ the King on Nov. 24, 2019.

Read about the power of prayer in Jack Chan’s life on p. 9, and find the diocesan prayer on p. 13.

FIND MORE ONLINE GO TO DIOCESEOFLANSING.ORG TO FIND ADDITIONAL RESOURCES ON THE YEAR OF PRAYER

INSIDE July/August

COVER STORY FOR FATHER LEW, ‘IT’S AN HONOR’ TO SERVE THE SICK – THE SACRAMENT OF ANOINTING OF THE SICK P. 14

P. 6

P. 9

P. 20

YOUR LIFE

6 marriage matters

He says: ‘I’m tired of entertaining people who don’t reciprocate.’ She says: ‘It’s fine, I just like having people around.’ What do they do?

7 work life ow do I gauge when and H how to escalate an issue to my manager?

parenting Teach them to win and lose gracefully

YOUR FAITH

8 grow+go Why Grow and Go?

9 year of prayer raying before Christ P in the Eucharist

10 in the know with Father Joe How do we teach our children about purity?

PLUS

18 special report

U.S. Bishops increase accountability measures

FOLLOW FAITHMAG SHARE YOUR FAITH WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FOLLOWERS

20 Catholic Charities

An update on Catholic

Charities and the State of Michigan

22 local news 24 things to do 5

YOUR LIFE

MARRIAGE MATTERS

HE SAYS:

I'm tired of entertaining people who don't reciprocate I'm tired of entertaining people who don't invite us to their house. We have hosted several barbecues and no one has reciprocated.

STEVE AND BRIDGET PATTON

SHE SAYS:

It’s fine, I just like having people around

INVITING PEOPLE OVER is one of those things

WHAT DO THEY DO?

that can appear good but sometimes be done for less than perfect motives. An honest conversation about their respective motives could help this

couple not only get on the same page with their social planning, but also improve their marriage.

It’s only natural to wonder after you’ve repeatedly entertained someone if they’re ever going to return the favor. But is this imbalance necessarily a cause to be irritated? Maybe the person is clueless about social norms. Maybe she’s doesn’t think she can reciprocate at the same entertainment level. Or maybe he really is a shameless mooch.

But whatever the non-reciprocating guests’ reasons might be, what’s more important is understanding your own reasons for inviting them.

Was it just to get invited back? Jesus actually said to do exactly the opposite: “When you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you.

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I don't care if people pay us back. I think it’s fun to entertain, and I enjoy having people around.

hold master’s degrees in theology and counseling and serve as family life ministers for the Diocese of Sacramento.

You will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”

(Lk 14:13-14) By the way, he told this to a prominent Pharisee who had invited him over for dinner for apparently less than perfect motives!

This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t care about being taken advantage of. This would not be the loving thing to do either for them or us. The point is that we should give to others as God has given to us: “without expecting to be repaid.” (Lk 6:35) But just “wanting to have people around” isn’t necessarily a perfect motive either. If it’s only about wanting to bring family and friends together to make them feel welcome, that’s great. But if it’s even partly about wanting them around as a balm to a lonely marriage, that’s not great. In fact, it would be using them as a bandage for your marriage.

Try this: At least talk about – and maybe even take the time beforehand to write about – the heart that each of you has for welcoming others into your home and into your shared life as a couple. What do you each most deeply wish to offer your guests?

And what do you each most deeply wish them to offer you?

YOUR LIFE WORK LIFE

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ET ME ASK MY BOSS. Then again, my boss’ boss.

There are so many variables that a strict rule of thumb may not apply. But assuming you have a good relationship with your manager, almost any issue at any time is fair game. If you don’t have a good relationship, almost no issue at no time is advisable.

For our discussion, let’s assume good karma (not a Catholic concept, but you get the point). Here are three categories of “escalation,” from the most modest to the most severe:

L

Teach them to

WIN AND LOSE GRACEFULLY

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How do I gauge when and how to escalate an issue to my manager?

YOUR LIFE PARENTING

Whether it’s a game of Candyland, soccer or an Academic Quiz Bowl, our children need to know how to win and lose gracefully. We want our children to succeed, but sometimes we get tangled up in the competition and we forget that winning doesn’t make you a champion and losing doesn’t make you a failure. Here are some focus points for helping kids win and lose with balance and character.

T. GENNARA

• Standard advisement. Many scenarios or problems are worthy of seeking advice.

And from an ego point of view, most bosses are flattered and pleased when asked for advice. “I’m struggling with communication JIM BERLUCCHI with the finance department.” “How do I is the executive best win over Stacy to cooperate with me director of the on our new vendor?” These are issues that Spitzer Center aren’t super sensitive or confidential, and for Visionary don’t have major repercussions. While you Leadership. don’t want to be running for help all the time (personal competence and confidence are valued), occasional inquiries are appropriate.

• Serious counsel. Other situations are dicier. They might involve people’s reputations, discreet or confidential information, layers of complication and /or weightier consequences. These matters are usually few and far between, but they do beg for higher-up help.

“I’m stuck in a serious conflict with Bob.” “I depend on Gail, but she seems incompetent.” You want to cue up such discussions with discretion. Before you get into details, it’s best to secure your bosses’ agreement to confidentiality – just between you and him/ her, unless and until you both agree it should go beyond.

• Intervention. Here we are dealing with serious cases like sexual harassment, alcohol or drug abuse, cheating, lying, stealing, etc. These are hot, hot, hot. So, handle with care. Hopefully your company has guidelines on how to report these issues.

If not, your first inquiry can be theoretical. “If I ever become aware of a clear-cut ethical violation, how should I handle it?

To whom do I take it, and how?” Above all, be careful, because these situations can be unfairly turned against you.

Needless to say, tap into one of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, which abides in you. The gift of counsel is a divinely bestowed power which perfects the natural virtue of prudence, or right decision-making: “Let your good Spirit lead me on a level path.”

(Ps 143:10)

Focus on humility. Every skill, gift and talent is a gift from God designed to help us grow in holiness. Each time we use these gifts and talents, we should do it to bring glory to the giver of the gift.

It’s not about being the best, it’s about doing your best in the eyes of the Father.

Focus on the gift, not just the outcome.

After a competition, talk about things you noticed such as determination, improvement, sportsmanship and character.

SHERI WOHLFERT

is a Catholic school teacher, speaker, writer and founder of Joyful Words Ministries. Sheri blogs at www. joyfulwords.org

Focus on empathy. Talk about what happens at the exact moment of the win or the loss. Talk about what that reaction shows others about the kind of competitor you are. Graceful winners say things like “good game” or “thanks for playing,” and they humbly acknowledge their opponents’ efforts. Graceful losers think about what they might do to improve next time instead of blaming, making excuses or being angry.

Focus on the feelings. To help your child react differently, it’s important to identify the root of the negative reaction.

It might be disappointment, embarrassment or frustration, rather than the actual score or finish.

Focus on what you model. If we want our children to win and lose with grace, we need to show them what that looks like. If we are criticizing other players, coaches, judges or officials, our children will certainly imitate our behavior.

Our main goal as parents is to help our children get to heaven – not to raise prize-winning competitors. So don’t forget to encourage your children to pray before competing and to ask for the grace to compete well.

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YOUR FAITH

WHY

NYONE WHO’S PLAYED SPORTS, pursued music or developed a new personal skill or trait has probably heard it said, “If you’re not getting better, you’re getting worse!” While overly simplistic, this motivational quote speaks to a human truth; stagnation or lethargy does not produce things that are new, better and transformed. Not surprisingly, this also applies to our lives as disciples of Jesus Christ.

A

T.Gennera

In 1 Corinthians 9:24, St. Paul compares our journey to heaven to a foot race, “Do you not know that the runners in the stadium all run in the race, but only one wins the prize? Run so as to win.” The PETE BURAK takeaway here is not that only one of is the director of us is getting into heaven, but the same i.d.9:16.

He has a mentality and disciplines of training hard, master’s degree moving quickly and crossing the finish line in theology, and apply to our Christian journey. We then is a frequent are faced with the question, “How do we speaker at events run?” The Church provides 2,000 years for youth and of insights, inspiration and teachings on young adults. what it looks like for us to “run,” but I want to boil it down to the two fundamental invitations given to all baptized Catholics: the universal call to holiness and the universal call to mission. Just as a healthy runner utilizes both legs, holiness and mission must be utilized in tandem to achieve maximum speed and ensure finishing the course.

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?

GROW AND GO

Just as a healthy runner utilizes both legs, holiness and mission must be utilized in tandem to achieve maximum speed and ensure finishing the course.

We are called to be holy because God is holy, and through the death and resurrection of his Son, we have access, through baptism, to God’s Spirit. When the Holy Spirit is poured into our hearts, we receive his power to transform us from broken, fearful and sinful people to beloved, chosen and free sons and daughters of God. As it states in one of the landmark documents of Vatican II, Lumen Gentium, “Indeed (Jesus) sent the Holy Spirit upon all men that he might move them inwardly to love God with their whole heart and their whole soul, with all their mind and all their strength and that they might love each other as Christ loves them.” (40) The Great Commandment (you shall love the God with all your heart …) is the root of our call to holiness. Simply put, we are called to grow. Grow in love, grow in power, grow in understanding, grow in freedom and grow into the body of Christ. In our race toward heaven, our first leg is the “grow” leg.

Our second and equally important leg is our “go” leg. When Jesus delivered the Great Commission, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations …”, he wasn’t just talking to his disciples at the time, but to all who would follow him. Pope Benedict XVI confirms this in Verbum Domini (The Word of the Lord): “The mission of proclaiming the word of God is the task of all of the disciples of Jesus Christ based on their baptism. No believer in Christ can feel dispensed from this responsibility.” Jesus understood that growing equips us to go, and once we go, we realize how much we still need to grow. Jesus challenges us to enter into his mission to work for the salvation of everyone around us. Going sharpens our own beliefs as we share the story of what Christ has done for us. What a wonderful joy it is to not only be brought into greater union with Jesus, but to enthusiastically share that relationship with others!

YOUR FAITH YEAR OF PRAYER

Born a twin of Chinese parents in the Philippines, Jack immigrated to the United States in 1981 and shortly thereafter joined the U.S. Army, in which he served for YE AR OF 20 years. His travels would lead him closer Forming Missionary Disciples and closer to the presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

Jack says, “I was stationed in four different U.S. bases in Germany. During this period, my family and I made it a point to travel and explore Europe, not only as tourists, but as pilgrims. We were blessed to have visited several Marian shrines as well as eucharistic miracle shrines.”

Jack’s unit was deployed to Saudi Arabia in November 1990 for Operations Desert Shield/Storm.

During this time, he ministered to his fellow troops. “In spite of facing the fear of the unknown going to war, I was so much at peace; peace beyond understanding that the Bible talks about,” he says. “During my deployment, I volunteered as a lay eucharistic minister, conducting Communion service when a priest was not able to come to our remote location.

“After our pilgrimages to the eucharistic shrines, `my belief in the true presence was solidified,” Jack says. “When we arrived in Lansing in 1999 we were attracted to the Immaculate Heart of Mary because of the close proximity of the adoration chapel. In 2008, the scheduler moved and asked me to take over, and I’ve been doing that ever since.”

Jack has his business cards ready to hand out to whomever might take up the call to prayer in adoration. Across the top reads the words of our Lord, “Could you not watch one hour with me?” serving as a reminder of the simplicity of it. Across the bottom are words of comfort for those who answer: “Come to me all of you ... and I will give you rest.”

Jack’s goal is to fill every spot every day, but he admits it is difficult to find volunteers, especially for the early morning hours. If anyone knows any night-owls in the area, he would be delighted to talk to them.

PR AY E R

TO SIGN UP TO SPEND TIME AT THE ADORATION CHAPEL, EMAIL JACK AT JAPARAMA15@ AOL.COM

Praying before Christ

IN THE EUCHARIST JACK W. CHAN of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Lansing is a natural-born, tried-and-true missionary pilgrim if there ever was one. Jack would most likely shy away from calling himself a “missionary,” but considering his past service and current function as the scheduling coordinator of the Holy Spirit Oratory 24-hour Adoration Chapel, he is indeed answering the call to “Go and make disciples,” wherever that may be.

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MIKE FRIESEMAN

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How do we teach our children about

purity?

FATHER JOE: My wife and I have children Q DEAR approaching “that age,” and we wondered if you had

any tips on how to teach our children about purity.

A

Absolutely. Praise God for the gift of life that you and your wife have been given and praise God for your hunger to teach them. I pray I serve you well here …

I’m going to begin by giving a sort of quick summary on what we are talking about when we talk about our sexual desires; where did they come from and what do we do with them?

We’ll start with the truth that you and I were created by a community of persons called the Trinity. This community of persons is a community of

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love; constantly pouring out the entirety of themselves into each other. The Father emptying all of himself into the Son and the Holy Spirit, the Holy Spirit constantly emptying himself into the Father and the Son, and the Son constantly emptying himself into the Father and the Holy Spirit. This dynamic of love and community, this reality of total self-giving, is what created us.

Because of this, a hunger for community, a need to give of ourselves completely, the desire to create are all encoded into our spiritual DNA. We long to be a part of something more than ourselves, and we hunger to give ourselves up completely to something that is not us. In the deepest part of us, we crave to consume and be consumed, to be lost totally in unity. We want to create.

This desire is holy.

At the same time, we are immersed in a world of sin. We recognize that we often take what is lovely and corrupt it into something selfish, something less, something easier. I hold to a simple premise that the greater something can be for a good, the more powerful the temptation to corrupt it for self-gain.

I think it is fair to say that nowhere is this principle clearer than in our sexuality.

You and I were born with a craving, a hunger to connect, to create, to give of ourselves. That hunger is most clearly expressed in our human sexuality.

When a man and a woman join their bodies together, they are imitating the Triune God and the wonder and culmination of that is in the creation of an immortal soul.

This is the reason that God gave you this fire: because one day you and your spouse will join together in a covenant relationship of body and soul.

You will join your bodies and become one and create an immortal soul. That is why that fire lives in you and that is why it is beautiful. This creating fire of the Triune God was given to you for so much more than self-gratification: it was given to you so that you can imitate its source.

To the young people with whom we share this mystery, we express it knowing that they are in a stage of their life where they are to channel that energy, to practice using that fire to serve and to give, to grow and to create. By prayer and discipline,

Second, use the tools God offers to help us in our struggle. Beyond the sacramental gift of reconciliation, there are some practical means out there to assist us. I’ve had a lot of people tell me about different apps on the iPhone that can help someone struggling with addictive behavior.

Third, let each sexual temptation serve as an opportunity to pray. Pray for the person you feel tempted toward, pray for yourself, pray for opportunities to point the fire that lives inside of us toward service, growth and self-giving.

Fourth, be careful of social media; I’m simply shocked that parents allow their kids to have any social media accounts before 16. Every day, I see the devastating effects of the things they are exposed to in this manner.

Parents, be gentle with your kids, but be clear as well. Let them know that if they come to you, they will find a refuge from the storm within. Don’t shame them for their struggles, but don’t justify sin either. Balance out the recognition that this is a normal struggle with the reality that God has high expectations of them and has given them the power to meet those expectations.

I pray for all reading this, that we commit to purity in our bodies and in our souls: may the struggle for purity drive us to be saints Enjoy another day in God’s presence.

YOUR FAITH IN THE KNOW WITH FATHER JOE

T. Gennara

by striving and failing, by receiving God’s mercy and strength, young people can learn self-giving, discipline, tenacity and mercy.

I think it is key that they not feel “dirty” or ashamed of these desires, but instead recognize their power, and respond to God’s call to channel that fire away from self-gratification and into self-giving. I have seen over and over that responding to this fire with shame only intensifies the struggle.

Give your children a safe place to talk to you about what they feel and how to deal with it prayerfully.

Make sure they understand that this fire is a gift, but a gift that is given for marriage. Teach them that their goal is not to try to put the fire out and not to act on every impulse, but instead to channel it toward service and a deeper understanding of their dependence on God. When the fire within us goes sideways, we fall into sinful and often addictive behavior, and I will now offer some tips for that particular struggle: First, do not give up. Ever. The fight to use the gift of our sexuality in the way we are called to is a struggle. It’s completely normal that purity is difficult and the key is to never give up. If we are dealing with a pornography addiction, for example, then we commit to going to confession as often as we need, finding a person to help us be accountable, and proceed to let God’s mercy and strength wear down our sin.

FATHER JOE KRUPP

is a former comedy writer who is now a Catholic priest. @Joeinblack

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Y E AR OF

PR AY E R Forming Missionary Disciples Father, You invite each of us to share in the life and ministry of your Son, Jesus. Send your Holy Spirit to form our parish as a community of missionary disciples.

Teach us how to hear Jesus, to love Jesus, and to share your gift of salvation with everyone we meet.

Through the witness and intercession of Mary, guide me to deepen my commitment as a disciple of Jesus.

Lead our parish to grow as an intentional community, committed to go and announce the Gospel of the Lord.

We ask these blessings in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

www.dioceseoflansing.org

YOUR STORIES

E

NTER ANY DOOR of the University of Michigan Medical Center complex, and you’re swept into

the emotional and physical struggles coursing through its corridors. Rogel Cancer Center, Frankel Cardiovascular Center, C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, the Emergency Department – people come to these world-renowned facilities seeking healing.

At the heart of the university hospital, the Department of Spiritual Care offers healing beyond the physical.

From their offices next to the chapel, hospital chaplains and trained volunteers minister to patients and their loved ones through health crises and transition. Father Lewis Eberhart, a Diocese of Lansing priest, shares insights from his years as a chaplain for Michigan Medicine.

“There are over 1,000 beds here,” Father Lew explains. “Even with two priests, it’s not possible to serve everyone seeking spiritual support. Thank goodness for our volunteer eucharistic ministers. But for deeper spiritual ministry, we have a team of 12 chaplains and several students trained in the formal and informal prayers and rituals of various faith traditions. The hospital serves people of all faiths and those with no spiritual beliefs, so we are here for everyone.”

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BY NANCY ROSEBUSH SCHERTZING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM LUNING

COVER STORY

This is heavy work!

I sometimes come out of the hospital exhausted.

But what an honor it is to be with patients and families in this stage of their journey!

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“W

E OFFER SACRAMENTS and engage in rituals with those who ask,” says Father Lew. “The sacraments are there to walk with

the patients and families, offering the comfort of the Church and bringing Jesus to them. When I go on rounds, especially to one of the intensive care units, I make sure I let families know the sacrament of the anointing of the sick isn’t just for those who are dying,” he chuckles. “Some folks get pretty concerned if I offer it without that explanation because it’s sometimes called ‘extreme unction’ or ‘last rites.’

“Wherever patients are on this journey, when someone listens to them, that’s the biggest benefit for many. For example, I’ve had survivors of priest abuse unload on me. I listen as long as they need, then I offer to support them in speaking with their responsible bishop. If they never filed a charge, and if they waive their HIPAA rights, I would contact the local enforcement authorities to report the charge.

“More often, folks are just seeking Christ’s peace. I represent the Church, and I want to do that the best I can. I want to do any act I can that helps bring patients and their families peace. I can’t provide Communion to everyone who asks, but when I cannot share the Eucharist with someone, we usually try to help them uncover what issues lie behind their request.

“I sometimes have family members ask me to convince their loved one to keep fighting for life. I understand their desire. I served 22 years in the U.S. Navy, where death was what we fought and feared. When my father was dying, I insisted he pursue every medical option because I was determined we were taking one more fishing trip together. Looking back now on what he endured, I’m sorry I put him through that. But that personal experience, coupled with my professional knowledge, allows me to bridge the family’s wish for extraordinary measures and the doctor’s opinion that it won’t cure their loved one.

“It often helps when I can share the Michigan Bishops’ pastoral letter [Living and Dying According to the Voice of Faith]. It makes it clear that rejecting extraordinary measures doesn’t mean you’re taking steps to end your life. In fact, with the distinguishing difference that medicines are used for pain alleviation and not to end life early, the Church strongly favors palliative care for those 16

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facing death. With this approach, palliative care adds to the majesty of the process and the peace many seek as they come to the end of this life.

“This is heavy work! I sometimes come out of the hospital exhausted. But what an honor it is to be with patients and families in this stage of their journey!

“It’s strange how the Lord operates. Someone will see me in the hall and ask if I’m a priest. Then they will often ask if I can come up and give the sacraments to their loved one. Often-times the sacraments open pathways for discussion of the most serious questions. Why is this happening to me? How do I have hope?

There aren’t always clear spiritual answers, but it is good to be in the valley with them.

“Anointing of the sick is for all Catholics. The complete ritual includes prayer, anointing with oil, confession, if the patient is able, the apostolic pardon and viaticum – Communion, literally food for the journey. If the patient is not able to eat, I offer the Eucharist to their family. It takes about 30 or 40 minutes to go through the complete ceremony. Usually while I give this sacrament, I watch the patient’s vital signs on the monitor. It’s amazing how often I see their breathing slow down and heart rate smooth out. You can actually watch the calm and peace come over them.”

“Many families hold hands around their patient and pray,” says Rev. Dr. Christina Wright, the department’s associate director. “I’ve seen patients who are not fully conscious begin to pray along when their family says the Our Father or prays the Rosary. Death is such a holy moment. Here at the hospital we give language and space to the sacred happening.”

Father Lew nods. “Being present with people and using the words the Church gives us: ‘Lord, fold your loving arms around ______ as he makes his journey. And will you, in turn, journey with his family. Walk that journey with them.’ It opens them to be led by the Spirit in prayer and allows the Holy Spirit to flow into the space. These rituals can actually help families move more easily through their grieving to the wake.”

“Death is a mysterious process.” Rev. Dr. Wright smiles. “I will often ask family members to tell me about their loved one as he or she is nearing the end of life. Sometimes along with the tears, genuine laughter and joy become part of the experience of saying goodbye.”

“Even when the heart stops beating, there may be electrical impulses in the brain. Patients may be able to hear even after they seem to have passed on.” Father Lew adds. “There are times when the family thinks their loved one is gone, then the patient takes another breath. Some who have near-death experiences report exactly what was said and done in the room after they were declared dead.

“All people have questions in the face of suffering. While they are here in this hospital, we try to find ways to help folks heal spiritual distress. Catholics have a unique gift in the sacraments which bring healing for our soul, if not always for our body. I have experienced their power, and I know the strength of the anointing of the sick because I see it working here.

“Whenever it comes, death is not the end of life. It’s the opening of a new door through which our journey continues. When we look at it that way, even death is a form of healing.”

Wherever patients are on this journey, when someone listens to them, that’s the biggest benefit for many.

WHEN THE END OF LIFE IS IMMINENT When someone we love is nearing the end of life, we are overwhelmed by sadness and anxiety. Sometimes, we hesitate to call a priest for the sacrament of the sick or ‘last rites,’ because we feel we are giving up hope.

Or perhaps we “don’t want to bother” the priest. But that is just the time to call. Someone who is very ill, elderly, preparing for surgery or in any danger of death should receive the sacrament of the sick. Although we sometimes refer to this as last rites, the sacrament can be received more than once, and should be received whenever death is

imminent. When that time approaches, do not hesitate to call a priest. It is best to do so before the person can no longer speak, think clearly or swallow.

The dying person should receive all the graces of the sacrament: confession, anointing and viaticum (holy Communion given near the time of death as ‘food for the journey’).

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SPECIAL REPORT

BOB ROLLER CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE

U.S. BISHOPS INCREASE ACCOUNTABILITY MEASURES T

HE UNITED STATES CONFERENCE OF CATHOLIC BISHOPS (USCCB) held its 2019 Spring General Assembly in Baltimore from June 11 to June 14. In terms of

on Bishops” provides the protocol for imposing limits on former of Pope Francis’ apostolic letter, Vos estis lux mundi (You Are The Light of the World), bishops removed from office for topped the list. In the letter dated May 7, 2019, Pope Francis established new procedures grave reasons, and empowers the USCCB president to restrict for reporting abuse and for holding both the abuser and the bishops and religious bishops removed or resigned for superiors accountable for their actions. reasons related to sexual abuse or abuse of power.

“Acknowledging Our Episcopal Commitments” implements a bishop code of conduct that clearly BISHOP ACCOUNTABILITY affirms the aforementioned Charter includes bishops in addition to priests and deacons. The “Directives for the The U.S. Bishops voted overwhelmingly to establish As of April Implementation of the Provisions of Vos estis lux mundi a third-party reporting system for reporting abuse 2019 in the U.S., Concerning Bishops and their Equivalents” presents a allegations against bishops. In three separate votes, there are … plan for the implementation of Pope Francis’ apostolic they voted to authorize the design of a third-party letter in the U.S. The “Directives” do provide an outline system for confidentially receiving reports of possible for how the laity should be involved, but fall short of violation by bishops of Pope Francis’ apostolic letter; to living cardinals mandating such involvement. authorize the Executive Committee to develop a more detailed proposal for the system to be approved by the conference’s Administrative Committee at its September active and OTHER HIGHLIGHTS and November 2019 meetings; and to activate the retired system no later than May 31, 2020. bishops The Spring General Assembly produced several other The Bishops also passed three additional measures notable votes. For instance, the Bishops approved a aimed at holding bishops accountable for sexual revision of the language in the U.S. Catholic Catechism for misconduct against minors and adults that expand archdioceses/ Adults (pp. 394-395) that deals with the death penalty to align on both Vos estis lux mundi and the U.S. Charter for dioceses it with the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The catechism the Protection of Children and Young People. “The – www.usccb.org (no. 2267) had been changed to reflect Pope Francis’ revision Protocol Regarding Available Non-Penal Restrictions anticipation and importance to the U.S. Church, the U.S. protocols for the application

DID YOU KNOW ?

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FAITH Magazine | JULY/AUGUST 2019 | WWW.FAITHMAG.COM

BY DOUG CULP

A Time to Heal retreat

NEW ONLINE RESOURCE In the days leading up to the 2019 Spring General Assembly, the USCCB launched a new website “highlighting the importance of prevention, protection and accountability in response to the ongoing effort to eradicate clergy sexual abuse.” The site houses numerous resources and can be found at WWW.USCCBPREVENTION.ORG. – www.usccb.org

CNS PHOTO/COURTESY IRVING HOULE ASSOCIATION

Irving “Francis” C. Houle is pictured in this undated photo. During their spring assembly in Baltimore, the U.S. bishops in a June 12 voice vote indicated their support for Houle’s sainthood cause to advance in the Diocese of Marquette, Mich., his home diocese.

Praying for Healing The Church should speak to young people in a way that respects their

to the teaching on the death penalty in August of 2018.

In a provisional vote, the Bishops passed the provisional Strategic Priorities for the 2021-24 USCCB Strategic Plan. The National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States, 2nd edition, was approved for use along with a new translation of the ritual book used for the ordination of bishops, priests and deacons.

Finally, the Bishops conducted a canonical consultation on the cause for canonization of the Servant of God Irving (a.k.a., Francis) C. Houle, and indicated support for the advancement of the cause on the diocesan level.

A healing retreat was held for victim/survivors of sexual abuse by clergy at the St. Francis Retreat Center in DeWitt in early May. These days were intended to affirm the impact of such abuse on survivors, provide a faith-based healing experience and connect survivors to a community invested in supporting each other’s healing.

The retreat was facilitated by Cheryl WilliamsHecksel, victim assistance coordinator for the Diocese of Lansing, along with a team that included a survivor of clergy sexual abuse and mental health counselors. Bishop Boyea joined the retreat and listened to survivors share about the impact the abuse has had on them, their families and their faith. This session concluded with Bishop Boyea providing an apology on behalf of the Church, and acknowledging the lasting wounds of the abuse. Father David Rosenberg, director of the retreat center, also served on the team and celebrated a healing Mass at the conclusion of the two-day retreat.

The retreatants found it a positive experience and expressed an interest in continuing to join together for mutual support. This ministry will continue to explore ways to support survivors of sexual abuse through additional retreats and opportunities to join together in a community of healing. For more information on upcoming retreats, contact Cheryl Williams-Hecksel at 888.308.6252 or cwilliamshecksel@ dioceseoflansing.org.

intelligence and responds to the questions they have.

– Bishop Robert Barron, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles

God of endless love, ever caring, ever strong, always present, always just: You gave your only Son To save us by the blood of his cross.

Gentle Jesus, shepherd of peace, join to your own suffering the pain of all who have been hurt in body, mind, and spirit by those who betrayed the trust placed in them.

Holy Spirit, comforter of hearts, heal your peoples’ wounds and transform our brokenness.

Grant us courage and wisdom, humility and grace, so that we may act with justice and find peace in you.

We ask this through Christ, our Lord.

Amen 19

GETTY IMAGES/RIDOFRANZ

In STVCC’s case, Buck v.

Gordon, the agency joined with Chad and Melissa Buck, who adopted five special needs children through STVCC, and Shamber Flore, who went from a background of abuse and tragedy to a loving adoptive home and a promising future thanks to STVCC, and is seeking a court order to allow faith-based adoption agencies to continue what they do best: uniting children with loving families.

The following points answer some common questions about the lawsuit.

SPECIAL REPORT

An update on Catholic Charities and the State of Michigan AS WE REPORTED IN OUR LAST ISSUE, the State of Michigan recently entered a settlement agreement with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) regarding same-sex adoption.

By the settlement, the state agreed to implement a new policy requiring adoption agencies to place children with “LGBTQ individual(s) or same-sex couple(s).” The settlement contravenes a 2015 Michigan law that affirmed the value provided by faith-based adoption agencies and that protected those agencies from providing services that violated their religious beliefs. If the state succeeds in enforcing this policy, it would mean longer waits for children seeking adoptions, more children aging out of the system without ever finding a permanent home, less support for foster and adoptive families, and would close down Catholic foster and adoption programs across Michigan.

On April 15, St. Vincent Catholic Charities (STVCC), Lansing, sued the State of Michigan in federal court. On April 25, Catholic Charities West Michigan, a Catholic Charities agency of the Diocese of Grand Rapids, sued the state in state court.

Through these lawsuits, these 20

Catholic Charities agencies are asserting their rights to free exercise of religion, free speech and equal protection under the state and federal constitutions, and to protection under the 2015 state law that protects the religious liberty of adoption agencies.

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STVCC is represented by the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty (Becket) at absolutely no cost to the agency or the diocese. Donor and DSA dollars continue to support programs that serve the most vulnerable among us.

STVCC does its work as the charitable arm of the Diocese of Lansing, and operates its programs in accordance with the teachings of the Catholic Church. The Catholic faith calls on all of us to perform works of mercy and to treat every human being with dignity and respect.

STVCC regularly serves a diverse array of clients through its many programs, including those who identify as LGBTQ, in line with the teachings of the Catholic Church. These clients include: • refugees who flee their homelands because of persecution and find safety through our resettlement program; • individuals in need of immigration legal services find it through our Immigration Law Clinic; • children who identify as

LGBTQ who heal as residents of our children’s home; and • individuals seeking help and hope from our counseling services are served regardless of their sexual orientation.

The conflict in this lawsuit surrounds a small aspect of the foster care and adoption process: specifically, the way in which agencies are required to evaluate and make written endorsements about adult relationships of couples it is recommending the state place children with.

There is no shortage of opportunities for same-sex couples to foster or adopt in Michigan, and STVCC has never prevented a same-sex couple from doing so. If STVCC is unable to work with a couple due to its religious beliefs, consistent with the state law, it provides the couple with a list of other area agencies that do not share STVCC’s religious beliefs and could better serve their needs.

Adoptive and foster families are not expected to share STVCC’s religious beliefs.

STVCC regularly serves children who identify as LGBTQ through its children’s programs and welcomes same-sex or unmarried couples to attend foster and adoptive parent support groups that STVCC facilitates.

However, as a Catholic organization, STVCC cannot provide a written recommendation to the state endorsing a family situation that would conflict with Catholic beliefs. Thus, the agency cannot provide written recommendations and endorsements of unmarried or same-sex couples as foster or adoptive parents.

HOW CATHOLIC CHARITIES AGENCIES SERVE THE DIOCESE OF LANSING CATHOLIC CHARITIES AGENCIES in the Diocese of Lansing are daily witnesses of the Gospel in the world. They live out the Gospel message as they feed the hungry, care for the poor and ill, and serve those who have been imprisoned. Here are some of the services they provide. If you are in need of help, please contact one of the agencies listed below.

St. Vincent Catholic Charities of Lansing 517.323.4734 or stvcc.org • • • • • •

Adoption Foster care Children’s home Counseling services Refugee services Immigration Law Clinic

Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale Counties Jackson: 517.782.2551 and Adrian: 517.263.2191 or catholiccharitiesjlhc.org • • • • •

Counseling services Foster care Adoption services Child advocacy centers Senior transportation services • Personal needs and linen closet Catholic Charities of Washtenaw County 734.971.9781 or csswashtenaw.org • Counseling/substance abuse services • Domestic violence

intervention services •A doption and foster care • Family support services/ child advocacy • Food pantry • Senior services Catholic Charities of Genesee and Shiawassee Counties Flint: 810.232.9950 and Owosso: 989.723.7239 or ccsgc.org • • • • •

doption and foster care A Center for Hope services Counseling services Meal programs Community closet – personal care products • Prevention and education programs Livingston County Catholic Charities 517.545.5944 or livingstoncatholiccharities.org • • • • •

enior services S Adoption Foster care Counseling services Substance abuse prevention • Child welfare services

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SPECIAL REPORT

U.S. Bishops increase accountability measures

JULY/AUGUST 2019 VOLUME 19: ISSUE 6

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Jim Berlucchi | Doug Culp | Rev. Joseph Krupp | Steve and Bridget Patton | Nancy Rosebush Schertzing | Sheri Wohlfert

St. Mary School in Pinckney recently unveiled its first Living Bible History Museum – a unique, live exhibit produced and presented by students to deepen their understanding of the Bible.

The goal was to embody God’s word by inspiring the students to walk in the shoes (or bare feet) of their favorite Bible character.

Students were asked to choose a Bible figure, research their life and times, develop a script, put together a costume, rehearse and perform a brief monologue before family and friends.

Museum patrons were invited to walk the halls of St. Mary where statue-like Bible characters lined up, ready to “come alive” when visitors dropped a penny in their jar to talk with Moses, David, Jonah and many more favorites from the Bible.

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Carlson Productions | Shane Folkertsma | Mike Frieseman | Tom Gennara | Sarah Moore Kuschell | James Luning | Don Quillan CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling FOUNDING PUBLISHER

Rev. Charles Irvin FOUNDING EDITOR For advertising information, contact Tom Gaskin Call 517.853.7648 or email tgaskin@faithcatholic.com For subscription information: Call 1.866.76.FAITH

FAITHTM (USPS 019993) is a publication of FAITH Catholic, Diocese of Lansing, 1500 E. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48906-5550. FAITHTM is a membership publication of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing and is published monthly except for February and August. To purchase a subscription, log on to FAITHpub.com. If you have a change of address, please contact your parish. Periodicals postage paid in Lansing, MI and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to FAITHTM, 1500 E. Saginaw St., Lansing MI 48906-5550. ©2017 FAITH Catholic. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Catholic.

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PRIEST ASSIGNMENTS •R ev. William Lugger to senior priest status, effective Sept. 4.

• Rev. Karl Pung, administrator of St. Casimir, effective Sept. 4, in addition to continuing responsibilities.

In the June issue of FAITH, we inadvertently repeated selected priest anniversaries from last year.

The priests celebrating their 50th anniversaries in 2019 are: •R ev. Steve Makranyi • Rev. Richard Zang

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MIKE FRIESEMAN

CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH JESUS AND HIS CHURCH WWW.FAITHCATHOLIC.COM

ST. MARY SCHOOL IN PINCKNEY HOSTS LIVING BIBLE EVENT

ORDINATION DAY EVENT On June 8, the Diocese of Lansing set aside the day to pray for vocations. Since the diocese had no men ordained to the priesthood this year, June 8 was a day to pray for not only the intentions of our heart, but for those men discerning the vocation to priesthood. Many gathered for a Mass with Bishop Boyea and a Holy Hour afterward. Many parishes also committed to a Holy Hour for priestly vocations.

CLERGY SEX ABUSE SCANDAL

MILLENNIAL CONFERENCE HELPS LEADERS REACH AND CONNECT WITH YOUNG ADULTS Pete Burak, director of i.d.9:16, opened the Millennial Conference in May, hosted by the Diocese of Lansing, with a call for clarity regarding ministry to young adults: The Church doesn’t need to become more millennial-friendly; the Church needs to become more millennial-empowering.

More than 160 attended the conference designed to help parish leaders and diocesan staff understand, empower and connect with the young adults missing from parish pews.

Pete Burds, director of campus ministry for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, spoke of common characteristics of this generation, including the need to belong to a family rather than an organization and the desire for a sense of identity and a sense of purpose.

Emily Burds, associate director of marriage and family life for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, revealed some specific “dos and don’ts” for engaging millennials.

Sarah Kaczmarek, associate director of Alpha Catholic Context, asked the audience to consider the importance of messaging to young adults.

She asked these questions: Do we use language they understand? Are our words respectful, loving? Are we willing to go to them, or expect them to come to us? Do we care about what they care about? Causes, etc. ?

Pete Burak concluded the presentations by identifying specific strategies that parishes can incorporate to

Priests indicted years after being removed from ministry

attract, include and empower young people to live as disciples actively invested in their faith family. These strategies include: •S tart with the familiar: Reach out to those you already know.

•E mbrace failure: Keep trying things and celebrate the efforts, not the results.

• Invite rather than register: Create a process using welcoming greeters and electronic devices to invite and assist people to join the church family after Masses at key times during the year.

•O ffer tribe-size experience: Sharing a common mission creates communion and builds a sense of common mission among participants.

• Provide opportunities to work for social justice.

•T ext to communicate.

• Meet in places other than church: Host gatherings in homes, bars, gyms – go where they are, invite them to places that feel like home.

• Ask questions – and listen: Seek to love, respect, honor and understand them and what they think, feel and know before sharing what you believe and value.

• Lean in: Be involved in their daily lives. Reach out and follow up with them when they reveal the struggles or losses they experience.

In May, the Michigan Attorney General announced the indictment of Rev. Vincent DeLorenzo and Timothy Crowley, both of whom served as priests of the Diocese of Lansing and had previously been removed from ministry after complaints of sexual abuse with a minor.

Bishop Earl Boyea stated, “I welcome today’s action so that the truth can come out and justice may be served. Any priest who commits reprehensible acts against children does grave harm to victims. He betrays the priesthood and the entire Church. I pray that Christ brings healing to all involved.”

Regarding Rev. Vincent DeLorenzo In 2002, the Diocese of Lansing received a complaint against Rev. Vincent DeLorenzo of sexual abuse involving a minor. After receiving this complaint, Bishop Carl Mengeling removed the priest from ministry and forwarded the complaint to the Genesee County prosecutor. The diocese has requested that Rev. DeLorenzo be laicized (defrocked) and is awaiting a decision from Rome.

The diocese invited victims to come forward and report abuse to civil authorities and to contact the diocese to receive assistance. Since 2002, seven additional complaints, for a total of eight, were made against Rev. DeLorenzo. The policy of the Diocese of Lansing is to take every complaint to law enforcement. The most recent allegations were brought forward in May 2018 and January 2019. The diocese forwarded the May 2018 allegation to the Genesee County prosecutor and the Burton police.

The January 2019 allegation was also forwarded by the diocese to the Genesee County prosecutor and the Michigan Attorney General, who had started a statewide investigation into clergy sexual abuse.

Regarding Timothy Crowley In 1993, an allegation was made against then Rev. Timothy Crowley, who was removed from ministry in the Diocese of Lansing by Bishop Kenneth Povish. At that time, Crowley was serving as pastor of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Ann Arbor. The Archdiocese of Anchorage later appointed Crowley as its chancellor, despite the Diocese of Lansing warning the archdiocese of these allegations.

After the adoption by U.S. dioceses of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults in 2002, Crowley was removed from ministry in the Archdiocese of Anchorage. He has since been laicized (defrocked). In 2003, the Diocese of Lansing shared information with the Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s office regarding Crowley; the prosecutor was unable to bring charges.

For information on these priests’ past assignments, visit DIOCESEOFLANSING.ORG. 23

THINGS TO DO July 12-14, Ann Arbor Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat: The pain of abortion runs deep and long, but the unconditional love, mercy, grace, forgiveness and healing of our Lord is available to all who seek him. Anyone who has been impacted by abortion is invited to attend the weekend retreat.

For information or to register, contact Beth at 734.879.0427 or toheal4give@outlook.com.

July 13, noon-7 p.m., Christ the King Catholic Church in Flint will celebrate its 30th AfricanAmerican Festival, “One Family, One Neighborhood, One City,” on the church grounds at 1811 Seymour Ave. with food, entertainment and children's games. All are welcome.

July 15-19, Holy Spirit, 9565 Musch Rd. in Brighton, will have Vacation Bible School. This epic African adventure engages the whole herd. At Roar, kids explore God's goodness and celebrate a ferocious faith that powers them through this wild life. For information or to register, call the parish office at 810.231.9199, ext. 200.

July 18-21, Pro-life Action Network, 40 Days for Life A2 and St. Thomas the Apostle Respect Life Committee will again cosponsor a pro-life booth at the Ann Arbor Art Fair. It will be part of the Washtenaw Non-Profits Fair located on Liberty between Fifth and Division. To volunteer for a shift at the booth online, go to Sign Up Genius: signupgenius.com.

For information, contact Sandie Weathers at plan2pray@gmail.com.

July 19 and 29, 6 p.m., the Knights of Columbus St. Joseph Council, Gaines will host its annual Community Rodeo downtown at Pine Hill Park in Gaines. All are welcome, bring the whole family. For information, email St. Joseph Church at stjosephgaines@gmail.com.

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The Diocese of Lansing’s Special Needs Ministry and All Faith Ministry for Disabilities are hosting two Special Needs Masses: One is July 21, RSVP by July 16, and the other on Aug. 18, RSVP by Aug. 13, at the St. Francis Retreat Center, 703 E. Main St., DeWitt. Mass

begins at 2 p.m. followed by light refreshments. To attend, please RSVP Cathy Blatnik at 517.381.1410 or at lcblatnik@juno.com. Everyone is welcome.

July 20, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., St. John the Baptist in Howell’s annual Car Show at the parish grounds and in Thompson Hall includes: silent auction, 50/50 raffle, food, family fun, awards and car entrant raffle. Car entry fee is $20 and general admission per car $5. For information, call the parish office at 517-546.7200. Everyone is welcome.

July 26-28, the National Conference of Democrats for Life will be at the Kellogg Center in East Lansing, exploring the theme “Pro-Life for the Whole Life.” In addition to a strong emphasis on abortion issues, speakers will address threats to human life and dignity after birth such as the plight of refugees, poverty and end-of-life care. Bishop Boyea will celebrate Mass at 9 a.m. on July 28.

Register online or attend free with $50 donation to one of the pro-life organizations that is hosting an information table. To learn more, visit MichDemsForLife.org Aug. 2-4, St. Casimir, Lansing’s annual Corn Roast Festival has everything: its famous corn on the cob, beer tent, raffle and more. Friday, great food and DJ, 5-9 p.m. and adult night with live band and dancing 9 p.m. to midnight. Saturday, children’s game area 4-9 p.m. and live music and dancing from 9 p.m. to midnight; and Sunday, 12:30-3 p.m. For information, please call 517.482.1346.

Aug. 5, St. Joseph Pilgrimage with Father Bob Bacik to Quebec.

Some of the sites include: St. Joseph Oratory of Mount Royal, Our Lady of the Cape, BasiliqueCathedrale Norte-Dame de Quebec and Quebec City. Cost is $600 per person/double occupancy. Passport or enhanced license is mandatory.

For information or to register, call Kaye Pescatello at 810.262.1130.

Aug. 5-9, 9 a.m. to noon, Old St. Patrick, 5671 Whitmore Lake Rd. in Ann Arbor will offer Vacation Bible School for children pre-K to 6th grade. The week includes a children’s concert and ice cream

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social on Aug. 8. To register, call the parish office at 734.662.8141.

Aug. 18, St. Agnes Parish in Fowlerville is hosting its 27th annual Funfest. A day of fun activities for everyone including: live auction, chicken dinner, rock climbing wall, miniature golf, cake walk, silent auction, children’s games, drinks, hourly 50/50 drawings and a jackpot raffle drawing with all cash prizes. For more information, please call Liz Heslip at 517.223.8684.

Aug. 22, after the 11 a.m. Mass, the Livingston Vicariate Catholic Council on Aging 50+ will host its annual summer picnic at Holy Spirit Catholic Church. There is no cost for this activity. All attendees are asked to bring a dish to share: vegetable, dessert, fruit or surprise. The Council on Aging will provide the rest. To attend, RSVP your CCA parish representative by Aug. 16. In case of rain, the picnic will be indoors.

Aug. 23-24, St. Michael, Grand Ledge will host its annual Funfest with live entertainment, kids’ games, concessions, prizes and more. For information, visit stmichaelgl.org.

Aug. 25, St. Mark the Evangelist, Goodrich will have a 11:30 a.m. Mass followed by a Founders Day Family Picnic. For information, contact the parish at 810.636.2216 or jsalvati@ stmarkgoodrich.org.

Aug. 25, following noon Mass, St. John Catholic Student Center, 327 MAC Ave., East Lansing will have a Catholic Spartan Parent Welcome to offer an overview of campus ministry programming for parents of incoming Michigan State University freshmen and transfer students.

There will be a meet-and-greet with the pastor, Father Gordon Reigle, and the Campus Ministry Team with light refreshments. To register for this complimentary reception online, please register at stjohnmsu.org/ msu-parents.

Sept. 7-8 in DeWitt, Catholic Engaged Encounter of MidMichigan: CEE is a Christian marriage preparation ministry based on Catholic teachings and values. It emphasizes the relationship of the couples in terms of their sacramental commitment.

Registration closes Aug. 24. For

JULY/AUGUST CAFÉ EVENTS

CATHOLIC CHARITIES

St. Mary Church/Campus of will host a Catholic Biblical School of Michigan (CBSM) Information Night. All are welcome to find out more about this in-depth study of the entire Bible led by expert instructors that will begin in on Tuesday evenings in September in Adrian. For more information, visit cbsmich.org or contact colleen@ cbsmich.org.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF JACKSON, LENAWEE AND HILLSDALE COUNTIES, JACKSON: 517.782.2551 AND ADRIAN: 517.263.2191 or CATHOLICCHARITIESJLHC.ORG •P ersonal Needs and Linen Closet: Available in Jackson County, the Personal Needs & Linen Closet (PN&LC) is located at 407 S. Mechanic Street in Jackson. Personal hygiene items, cleaning products, and linens are available free of charge to those in need. The PN&LC is open on the second and fourth Fridays of each month from 9 am.-noon.

•J uly 17 or Aug. 8, 7-8:30 p.m. at Holy Family in Adrian • July 22 and Aug. 22, 8:30 p.m., for those interested in an online virtual class • July 29 or Aug. 26, 7-8:30 p.m., at St. Martha in Okemos

RETREATS WEBER RETREAT AND CONFERENCE CENTER, ADRIAN, 517.266.4000 or WEBERCENTER.ORG • July 15-19, Private Directed Retreat: Reflect peacefully, rest in God's presence, get refreshed and restored in this five day retreat. Experience the serenity and clarity that comes from listening to God's Holy Spirit within you, guided by daily spiritual direction to help you process and clarify your insights. Cost is $425, which includes private room, meals and daily spiritual direction. Commuter rate $250. To register, call 517.266.4000 or online at webercenter.org.

ST. FRANCIS RETREAT CENTER, DEWITT, 866.669.8321 or STFRANCIS.WS •A ug. 13, 9 a.m. to Aug. 15, 2 p.m., Summer Scripture Days – Acts of the Apostles: The Church Rooted in Evangelization retreat will be held at St. Francis. For information or to register, call or visit its website.

more information, visit lansingcee. org, email infor@lansingcee.org or call Sue and Wayne Fransted at 517.740.4132.

Sept. 12-15, St. John the Evangelist in Fenton will host its 47th annual Applefest on the parish grounds at 600 N. Adelaide with rides, road race, children’s games, pancake breakfast, chicken, fish and spaghetti dinners, entertainment tent, apple pie contests, the famous pie auction and a car, boat and cruise raffle. Come join in the fun. For information, email sjapplefest@gmail.com or online at stjohnfenton.org.

Sept. 15, 3 p.m., Holy Spirit Parish in Brighton is celebrating its 40th anniversary and all are welcome to its Community BBQ Dinner Picnic at the pavilion on the

church grounds. Come and enjoy a delicious BBQ feast with all the sides, basket raffles, hot air balloon launch, kids’ games, bounce house, music and more. Tickets are available Aug. 17. For information, call the parish office at 810.231.9199.

Oct. 13 is the inaugural Holy Fire Great Lakes middle school event being held on the campus of Bowling Green State University.

This one-day event is filled with dynamic presenters, music and Mass with Bishop Boyea, along with middle-school students from Michigan and Ohio. Registration materials and details will be sent to parish youth ministers, DREs and Catholic schools in early summer. For information, please contact Brian Flynn at bflynn@ dioceseoflansing.org.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SHIAWASSEE AND GENESEE COUNTIES, FLINT: 810.232.9950 AND OWOSSO: 989.723.7239 or CCSGC.ORG •W e C.A.R.E. marriage preparation class: Aug. 17, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Holy Redeemer Family Life Center, 1227 E. Bristol Rd., Burton. Cost is $75 per couple.

Registration and payment are required prior to class. For information or to register, call Debbie Summers at 810.232.9950 ext. 115 or complete and submit the registration form available online at catholiccharitiesflint.org/other-services.

• Back to School donations: CCSGC Community Closet is also accepting uniform pants and polos, kids’ clothes, back packs and school supplies. Hours of operation for personal care items is 9:30 a.m.-noon and for clothing-household goods items is 1-4 p.m.

For information, please call 810.265.7025.

CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES OF WASHTENAW COUNTY, 734.971.9781 or CSSWASHTENAW.ORG •W e C.A.R.E. marriage preparation classes: July 12, 6:30- 9 p.m. and July 13, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at St. Mary Student Parish, 331 Thompson, Ann Arbor; and Aug. 23, 6:30-9 p.m. and Aug. 24, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle, 530 Elizabeth, Ann Arbor. Cost is $95 per couple. For registration form and information, visit csswashtenaw.org or call 734.971.9781 ext. 421.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY CATHOLIC CHARITIES, 517.545.5944 or LIVINGSTONCATHOLICCHARITIES.ORG •B ring joy to a homebound senior: Livingston County Catholic Charities is looking for volunteers who like working with older adults. Opportunities include, but are not limited to, friendly home visits, transport to appointments, errands and respite care for family members. To volunteer, contact Linda Bauby at 517.545.5944 ext. 121 or linda@ livingstoncatholiccharities.org.

ST. VINCENT CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF LANSING, 517.323.4734 or STVCC.ORG •W e C.A.R.E marriage preparation class: Sept. 13, 6-9 p.m. and Sept. 14, 9 a.m.-noon will be held at Cristo Rey Catholic Church, 201 W. Miller Rd., Lansing in the Juan Diego Room. Class size is limited. Cost is $75 per couple. Registration form is available on the STVCC website. For information, call Jessica Gallegos at 517.323.4734 ext. 1726 or GallegJ@stvcc.org.

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MOVIMIENTO FAMILIAR CRISTIANO CATÓLICO – USA LA OFICINA DEL MINISTERIO HISPANO de Diócesis de Lansing, con autorización del Obispo Earl Boyea, ha llevado a cabo un convenio para comenzar el Movimiento Familiar Cristiano para la población Hispana de la Diócesis. Queremos

quienes asisten invaluablemente en el aspecto espiritual a los líderes y membresía en general.

• En Estados Unidos, el MFCC-USA está registrado y reconocido debidamente ante las leyes civiles como una Organización No Lucrativa.

OBJETIVOS Los objetivos del MFCC-USA son hacer que las familias hispanas de USA sean:

invitar a todos los hispanos de la Diócesis que estén interesados en pertenecer al Movimiento para que se animen a crear equipos de trabajo en que podrán reflexionar y compartir temas que son de mucho beneficio y ayuda para las familias.

QUE ES EL MFCC-USA El Movimiento Familiar Cristiano Católico (MFCC) USA es un Movimiento Católico laico del pueblo de Dios que agrupa familias católicas, apoyadas con la asistencia de Obispos, Sacerdotes, Diáconos y Religiosas.

El Movimiento es una agrupación de familias Católicas que unen sus esfuerzos para promover los valores humanos y cristianos de la familia, para que esta sea en la comunidad: formadora de personas, educadora en la fe, consiente de su misión evangelizadora y comprometida en el desarrollo integral de la comunidad y de la iglesia doméstica.

• A escala internacional, el Movimiento forma parte de la Confederación Internacional de Movimientos Familiares Cristianos (CIMFC).

• A escala nacional, es asesorado espiritualmente por un Obispo que representa el MFCC-USA ante la Conferencia Episcopal de los Estados Unidos.

• A escala nacional y en cada Federación, hay un Asesor Espiritual aprobado por el Obispo de la Diócesis. Existen además Asesores Espirituales en las Federaciones y Zonas,

•F ormadoras de persona • Educadoras en la fe, • Promotoras del desarrollo integral de la comunidad y de la Iglesia Doméstica.

MEDIOS Opera a escala conyugal, familiar y comunitaria, promoviendo los valores familiares propios de la cultura Hispana, válidos en el momento actual la cual se enriquece al integrarse con otras tradiciones familiares en los Estados Unidos de Norteamérica.

INFORMES Las personas interesadas en pertenecer a este movimiento por favor comuníquense con: Susana Chapa Vargas, Coordinadora del Ministerio Hispano de la Diócesis de Lansing al (517)342-2520 o mande un correo electrónico a schapa@dioceseoflansing. org, o con el matrimonio presidente del Movimiento Familiar Cristiano de la Diócesis: David y Dania Perla, al: (517)249-0789 o al (517)2497999 o mande correo electrónico a: perladav@msu.edu, o a Dania.Sommersville@gmail.com

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DON QUILLAN

Misa del Obispo Earl Boyea el día de la inauguración de la liga de soccer en el Condado de Clinton EL DOMINGO, 28 DE ABRIL, el Obispo Earl Boyea, con la ayuda del Padre Tim Nelson y el Diácono Carl Boehlert, celebró la misa para la comunidad hispana que se reúne cada año durante el verano para la liga de fútbol en la que participan hispanos de varias localidades de nuestra diócesis, e inclusive de diócesis vecinas del Estado de Michigan.

El Padre Tim Nelson, al contar la historia de cómo comenzó a acercarse a esta comunidad de hispanos, platica: “Hace un par de años, había escuchado que muchos hispanos se reunían para jugar soccer en un sitio del condado de Clinton, así que decidí ir a ver y encontré que había cientos de ellos. Sabiendo que la mayoría de ellos son católicos, decidí que podíamos celebrar la misa ahí en el campo y comenzamos a celebrar la misa en domingo ahí dónde ellos jugaban soccer”.

Para todos los hispanos católicos, es un gran honor poder asistir a una misa con el obispo de la diócesis. El Obispo Boyea tiene un compromiso continuo de servir a la comunidad inmigrante, y su “sí” inmediato como respuesta cuando fue invitado a celebrar esta misa es una prueba de ello.

Conocí a Tim Berry el miércoles de ceniza cuando el Padre Eric Weber y yo fuimos a las granjas a llevar las cenizas a los trabajadores. Una de esas granjas era la granja para la que Tim ha trabajado desde los 14 años. Platicando con él, le comenté que uno de sus trabajadores con el cual yo había estado en contacto, me comentó que ya había platicado con él para solicitar que el Obispo fuera a celebrar la misa a la granja. Su respuesta inmediata fue un “sí”, y, desde ese momento, su “sí” fue entusiasta, sabiendo que no todos los días el Obispo viene a oficiar la misa a la granja. Le dije que esto era una gran bendición de Dios.

Tim se encargó de designar un buen sitio en la granja para 6

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celebrar la misa y tener todo listo para recibir a los asistentes. Al preparar todo para el evento, Tim mencionó: “Sólo espero que las vacas no se escapen a la mitad de la misa”, a lo que le contesté, “¿Pasa seguido que se salgan las vacas?” y dijo, “Todos los días”.

Afortunadamente este día se portaron bien.

Es muy emocionante ver como el entusiasmo de muchos fue lo que hizo posible esta celebración.

Los Señores Pascual y Humberto trajeron sus micrófonos y equipo de sonido, un coro de hispanos de una parroquia en Howell y Arnold Hennings se encargaron de la música, Michelle Parker y el Padre Michael Williams de la parroquia de St. Joseph en St. Johns ayudaron a traer todo lo necesario para celebrar una misa en una granja, el Padre Tim Nelson viajó desde Jackson para celebrar con el Obispo y trajo una pila bautismal portátil para el bautizo celebrado ese día, los trabajadores de la granja acomodaron las sillas y mesas para el altar y para las ofrendas. Muchas personas de la Diócesis colaboraron para ayudar a asegurar que tuviéramos todo listo para ese día, entre ellos los diáconos Tom Fogle y Ken Pries así como Jeremy Priest.

Durante esa semana, el clima loco de Michigan no prometía tener un buen clima para el día del evento al aire libre, y tanto Tim como yo estábamos nerviosos escuchando el pronóstico del tiempo. Al inicio de la semana, se pronosticaba que el día de la misa iba a nevar, pero para la mitad de la semana el pronóstico indicó que tendríamos un día soleado. Y tuvimos un hermoso día soleado ese día, lo que se sentía como la gracia de Dios favoreciéndonos para poder celebrar esta misa.

La misa fue todo un éxito, y no sólo los jugadores y sus familias asistieron, también varios de los granjeros estuvieron presentes.

Además de todas las sillas preparadas, había mucha gente de pie.

En su homilía, el Obispo Earl Boyea habló de Tomás el incrédulo, el discípulo de Jesús que se negó a creer que el Mesías había resucitado, a menos que pudiera tocar sus heridas. El Obispo Boyea reflexionó acerca de la realidad de la iglesia, que es el cuerpo de Cristo y que también tiene heridas causadas por nuestros pecados. El Obispo dijo, “Jesús quiere que pongamos nuestras manos en las heridas de éste su Cuerpo, su Iglesia. Él no quiere que nos alejemos enojados, sino que saquemos bien de ese Cuerpo, que desechemos su pecaminosidad y que creamos que aún aquí se está haciendo la voluntad de Dios.

“A algunos esto les puede parecer como un escándalo, pero es lo que Jesús hizo… Él quiere continuar haciendo su obra en la carne, a través de seres humanos, a través de Su Iglesia. Quizá nosotros queremos que sea de otra manera, pero las palabras de Jesús son un reto para todos nosotros: Benditos sean aquéllos que no han visto y han creído, por su testimonio”.

POR SUSANA CHAPA VARGAS

Nacida en México, Olga llegó al área de Lansing con su familia en 1978 cuando tenía 15 años. Una tía los presentó a la parroquia de Cristo Rey, y desde entonces ha sido miembro. “Desde que me casé hace 33 años, siempre he sido activa en la parroquia.

Hace trece años, me invitaron a ayudar a enseñar clases bautismales y a estudiantes de kindergarten. Hace tres años, comencé a visitar a las familias en sus hogares con la Hermana María, que era la DRE, y a tomar clases de formación en la universidad de Notre Dame. En esencia, Olga se convirtió en la asistente y mano derecha de la DRE. Cuando la Hermana María murió en noviembre de 2018, el Padre Fred Thelen, el pastor de Cristo Rey en ese momento, le pidió a Olga que asumiera formalmente un papel que ya había estado ejecutando con confianza. Las habilidades bilingües de Olga, y la comprensión de los desafíos únicos que enfrenta la comunidad hispana, la convirtieron en la candidata perfecta.

En Cristo Rey, Olga es responsable de la planificación y ejecución del programa de formación en la fe de los niños, el reclutamiento y entrenamiento de catequistas y la preparación sacramental. Ella dice: “También coordino varias fiestas hispanas. Diciembre es un mes ocupado con novenas; primero a Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, desde el 3 de diciembre hasta el 11 de diciembre. La verdadera Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, el 12 de diciembre, incluye una celebración de serenata de Nuestra Señora. Siguiendo rápidamente, la novena de Las Posadas, que celebra los nueve meses del embarazo de María, del 16 al 24 de diciembre.

“A fines de octubre, comenzamos a prepararnos para el Día de los Muertos. Se coloca un altar en la entrada de la iglesia.

Los feligreses traen fotos de sus seres queridos fallecidos para colocarlas allí, y el 2 de noviembre, entran en procesión para colocarlos en el altar del santuario y encender una vela. En mayo, durante nuestra Fiesta Anual de la Iglesia, los niños de la primera comunión actual coronan a María y le traen flores”.

En Cristo Rey también se escenifica el Vía Crucis cada Viernes Santo, comenzando en los escalones del Capitolio y concluyendo en el Centro Comunitario de Cristo Rey en High Street. Los jóvenes y otros miembros de la parroquia asumen estos deberes.

Junto con la programación y las tareas administrativas, Olga trabaja arduamente para ayudar a la comunidad parroquial a vivir plenamente dentro de una cultura anglosajona. Ella explica: “Muchos de nuestros feligreses no hablan inglés, por lo que necesitan ayuda para completar documentos para médicos, escuelas o asuntos legales. Los que no tienen documentos no pueden tener una licencia de conducir, por lo que necesitan ayuda para encontrar transporte”. Olga explica que la mayoría de los inmigrantes trabajan en dos o tres trabajos para poder subsistir, lo que hace que sea prácticamente imposible para ellos, a pesar de su deseo de aprender inglés, encontrar tiempo para asistir a clases de alfabetización.

Olga continúa: “Nuestro mayor desafío ahora es su temor a la separación familiar. Sienten que están siendo cazados intencionalmente. Nos resulta difícil ayudarles porque a menudo no contestan a su puerta o teléfono por temor a que sea ICE [Servicio de Inmigración y Control de Aduanas].

To read these articles in English, please visit FAITHMAG.COM.

Olga al trabajar estrechamente con la Oficina Diocesana del Ministerio Hispano, también está aprendiendo sobre los programas que se pueden ofrecer a su comunidad. Ella está buscando maneras para que las personas sin documentos, especialmente aquellos que mantienen un perfil bajo, sepan que tienen un aliado y un lugar seguro donde ir. El censo registrado de Cristo Rey es de aproximadamente 450 familias; el número de no registrados es desconocido, debido en su mayoría al temor a ser deportado.

Olga se apresura a identificar lo que sostiene su fe: “Mi amor por Dios y lo que he aprendido de mis propios padres. Su fe es la herencia más grande que podrían darme. Recuerdo que mi madre me llevó a la iglesia cuando tenía 4 años y el Santísimo Sacramento fue expuesto. Le pregunté qué era y ella me dijo que era Dios. Sentí una alegría en mi corazón y no necesitaba más explicaciones. Desde entonces he sentido un fuego especial en mi corazón por Dios.

“Me estoy esforzando mucho para servir a nuestra gente con todo mi amor y todo mi conocimiento. Quiero que encuentren a Dios justo donde están y se sientan amados por él, sin importar sus circunstancias. Quiero que sepan que son amados y que Dios está de su lado”.

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ARTÍCULO DE PORTADA

POR ROSE ROBERTSON FOTOGRAFÍA POR REY DEL RIO

o puedes evitar sentir ternura cuando te encuentras con Olga. Ella dice: “No solo me gusta lo que hago; yo amo lo que hago. Es mi pasión. Mi corazón está en eso”. Olga De La Torre es la directora de educación religiosa (DRE) en la Parroquia de Cristo Rey en Lansing, y lleva la distinción de ser la primera ministra laica en cumplir con este cargo en su parroquia. Antes de su nombramiento en enero pasado, las Hermanas Pasionistas cumplieron ese papel en Cristo Rey. “Todavía tengo problemas para comprender cómo terminé aquí”, dice ella.

N

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COLUMNA DEL OBISPO

EL OBISPO EARL BOYEA

es el quinto obispo de la Diócesis Católica de Lansing @BishopBoyea

Carlson Productions

LA EUCARISTÍA – LA FUENTE DEL PERDÓN, LA SANACIÓN Y LA GRACIA

RECIENTEMENTE, ALGUIEN ME PREGUNTÓ por qué debería seguir siendo católico, dado el pecado y la corrupción presentes en el clero y otros líderes de nuestra Iglesia. Mi respuesta fue sencilla: "Por la Eucaristía". En el Evangelio de Juan, capítulo 6, después de que Jesús explicara cómo su carne y sangre serán nuestra comida, y muchos de sus discípulos se alejaron de él debido a esto, preguntó a los que se quedaron: “‘¿Acaso también ustedes quieren irse?’

Simón Pedro le respondió: ‘Señor, ¿a quién iremos? Tú tienes palabras de vida eterna’”.

Si yo fuera Dios, no habría confiado esta tarea sagrada de la Eucaristía (o del perdón de los pecados, en realidad) a un grupo de pecadores débiles. ¡Debería haber escogido ángeles! Sin embargo, Dios colocó este ministerio en estas vasijas de barro, probablemente para indicar que no fueron la fuente de tales dones maravillosos, sino fue Jesús. Su cuerpo y su sangre vienen a nosotros a través de los pecadores, pero son tesoros divinos del mismo Señor Jesús.

Donde podamos encontrar una manera diferente o "mejor", esta es la forma en que eligió permanecer con nosotros hasta el final de los tiempos.

Ahora, esto nunca es una excusa para la tolerancia de la inmoralidad entre el clero. ¡Muy por el contrario! Estar en el lugar de Jesús supone una mayor carga para vivir su vida casta, su vida simple, su vida obediente en la presencia del pueblo de Dios. Soy un pecador. Regularmente voy a la confesión. Me arrepiento. Pero sobre todo, realmente quiero llegar al cielo, ser un santo. Mis esfuerzos son siempre muy débiles, pero oro diariamente por la gracia de Dios para que sea lo que me ha llamado a ser.

Nosotros los sacerdotes no estamos obligados a celebrar misa todos los días. Sin embargo, así lo hago. La celebro y necesito continuar con esta práctica, ya que la Eucaristía diaria es la única fuente de perdón, sanidad y gracia que siempre me moverá lentamente hacia el premio de ser como Jesucristo. Ya que no hay otro nombre por el cual somos salvos, sin esa gracia ganada por Cristo todos estaríamos apuntando al infierno.

Así pues, es tanto más notable que Jesús nos dio su cuerpo y sangre en el curso de una comida y un sacrificio en la cruz. Este acto de amor por nosotros que no merecemos y el que Jesús nos llame sus amigos son consuelos tremendos en este mundo. No puedo vivir sin ellos y, por lo tanto, no puedo alejarme. Y, francamente, me siento atraído por él que ha elegido amarnos tanto. Quiero ser uno con Jesús. Esa es una razón más que suficiente para que yo siga siendo católico y siga tratando de serlo cada vez mejor.

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ÍNDICE

Un ministerio a los enfermos es un ministerio de presencia

C PARA AQUELLOS A QUIENES OLGA SIRVE – ‘Quiero que sepan que son amados y que Dios está de su lado’ P. 4

P. 6

Movimiento Familiar Cristiano Católico – USA P. 7

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Los tiempos de enfermedad también nos pueden hacer difícil orar. No es que no nos demos cuenta de la necesidad de la oración, pero estar enfermos y cansados puede hacer difícil que cualquiera de nosotros encuentre las palabras para la oración. Cuando es difícil orar, podemos sentirnos aislados fácilmente de Dios. Si nos sentimos aislados de Dios, también podemos sentirnos aislados de la Iglesia y de la comunidad humana que representa. Los tiempos de enfermedad, especialmente los de enfermedad crónica o grave, pueden hacernos sentir muy solos, incluso cuando podría haber otros cerca.

A través de mis años de ministerio sacerdotal, he llegado a comprender que una de las formas más valiosas de ministerio que puedo ofrecer es visitar a aquellos que están hospitalizados o confinados en sus hogares. Lo que he descubierto es que la mayoría de las veces lo único que tengo que hacer es aparecerme allí y Jesús hace el resto.

Aunque llevo conmigo el Óleo para los Enfermos, así como la Eucaristía, muy a menudo simplemente llamando a la puerta y entrando a la habitación donde alguien está enfermo puede ser suficiente para traerles una sensación de paz y conexión. Con un simple saludo, unas pocas palabras de oración y una breve conversación, Jesús entra en la habitación y se abre camino hacia la situación que enfrenta el que está confinado en su hogar o hospitalizado. La señal de la cruz trazada en una frente y las manos levantadas en oración puede romper las capas de aislamiento que siente el otro, proporcionando un sentido necesario de ser parte de la comunidad humana, la familia de Dios, la Iglesia.

A medida que las poblaciones de nuestra parroquia continúan envejeciendo, el ministerio a los confinados en casa y hospitalizados es cada vez más crítico. Las estructuras familiares no son las mismas que antes. No es raro que los hijos adultos se hayan mudado y que los apoyos familiares sean menos tangibles. La tecnología como los teléfonos celulares ayuda, pero es cada vez más común que nuestros feligreses mayores vivan solos. Al mismo tiempo, los miembros de nuestras comunidades parroquiales pueden ofrecer un apoyo invaluable visitando y orando con aquellos que están hospitalizados o confinados en sus hogares. Este tipo de ministerio usualmente requiere un poco de entrenamiento, pero sobre todo requiere el don de nuestro tiempo, nuestra fe y nuestra disposición para simplemente aparecerse allí y. Jesús hará el resto.

Y así, nuestro jornada en la FE continúa.

FAITH Magazine | JULY/AUGUST 2019 | WWW.FAITHMAG.COM

NOTA DEL EDITOR

T.GENNERA

Misa del Obispo Earl Boyea el día de la inauguración de la liga de soccer en el Condado de Clinton

REO QUE TODOS ESTARÍAMOS de acuerdo en que estar enfermo no es divertido. Estar hospitalizado por enfermedad y cirugía es aún menos divertido. La enfermedad o la hospitalización pueden traer consigo todo tipo de estrés. Nos preguntamos si alguna vez nos sentiremos mejor. Pensamos en nuestra mortalidad. Los tiempos de enfermedad pueden sacar a relucir algunas de nuestras emociones más profundas y, a veces, podemos decirle cosas a otros, especialmente al personal del hospital, a los familiares y amigos, en formas que de otra manera nunca hablaríamos. La enfermedad no es una experiencia fácil porque nos hace vulnerables en muchos niveles.

PADRE DWIGHT EZOP

es el editor de la Revista FAITH y párroco de la Iglesia de Santa María, Charlotte y la Iglesia de Santa Ana, Bellevue. Correo electrónico: editor@ FAITHpub.com.

FLIP OVER FOR

ENGLISH

LA EUCARISTÍA – La fuente del perdón, la sanación y la gracia Misa del Obispo Earl Boyea el día de la inauguración de la liga de soccer en el Condado de Clinton Movimiento Familiar Cristiano Católico – USA