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www.FAITHmag.com www.FAITHteen.com

The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing January/February 2004

Report from the bishop: new diocesan program underway to prevent future abuse

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surrendering my will to God’s will reveals God’s goodness time after time

C. Jones

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friend once told me, “Do you want to make God laugh? Tell Him your plans!” Little did I know that those words would come true during my third year in seminary, as I made preparations for my six-month parish internship. As I was preparing to depart for St. Joseph Parish in St. Johns, I shared with some of my classmates that the situation that gave me the most anxiety was imagining the first time that I had to handle an emergency at the hospital without the assisI learned a lot tance of the pastor or parochial vicar. In my mind, though, there really wasn’t any need to worry. during the After all, my internship would last only six months, and my fearfully-imagined scenario could course of my never happen in such a short time. internship, but My internship began on a Saturday in late February as I was introduced to the parish at the nothing was evening Mass. Afterward, the pastor left to attend the symphony, leaving me to settle into the recto- more important ry. The parochial vicar was away on vacation, so I anticipated a quiet evening as I unpacked my than the lesson belongings. With the pastor’s taillights fading from sight in that night’s snowstorm, the emergency of my first night phone line in the rectory rang. An elderly woman was dying at the local hospital, and the family in the parish: needed someone to pray with them right away. surrendering I calmly explained that neither priest was available. my will to God’s I shared that I was a seminarian, new to the parish and the city. will reveals I volunteered to try to locate an available priest. God’s goodness The very patient nurse on the other end of the line noted that none of the area priests could be time after time. located. Someone – could she mean me? – needed to get to the hospital as quickly as possible. As I located everything I needed to take with me, I remember thinking, “God, you got me into this. Help me to do what you need me to do.” Slipping and sliding through the snow, I made my way to the hospital. I managed to find the dying woman’s room and met her family. After sharing Viaticum with her, we gathered around her bed and prayed with her. She slipped quietly home to God later that night. When I finally made it home and to bed, the last thought in my mind as I closed my eyes was one of thankfulness – to God, for getting me through my very first pastoral emergency. I saw the woman’s family at Mass the following morning. They thanked me for being with them as their beloved wife and mother died, and then asked me to lead her wake service. I gratefully accepted their invitation. I learned a lot during the course of my internship, but nothing was more important than the lesson of my first night in the parish: surrendering my will to God’s will reveals God’s goodness time after time. Whenever I’m afraid, tired, feeling over-extended or ill-equipped, tempted to put my will or my needs before God’s, I remember that night in St. Johns, and think almost the same thing I did that night, nine years ago: “God, you got me into this. I know you’ll give me the grace to do what you need me to do.” I remember that special lesson about the First Commandment and what becomes possible when we put God first in our lives. The Ten Commandments and the many beautiful possibilities they open in our lives will guide us through the months of 2004. Although they sound negative on the surface, each commandment invites us into a positive and ever-deepening relationship with God and with our sisters and brothers. That was the beautiful lesson I learned on a snowy night in St. Johns. The Ten Commandments are lessons each of us can learn, no matter our age. And so our journey in FAITH continues. – Fr. Dwight Ezop is editor of FAITH Magazine and pastor of the Catholic Community of St. Jude.

Liturgical Calendar: Octave of Christmas: The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God Jan 1 | Ss. Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, Bishops and Doctors of the Chur

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Cover Story

Growing up in Romania in the 1960s and 1970s under communist rule, life seemed hopeless for Daniel Dragan. So at age 19, he put an AK-47 automatic rifle to his heart so that his suicide attempt couldn’t possibly fail. Now, he tells his story to FAITH. f e a t u r e s

Elizabeth’s own path

How did her family react when Elizabeth decided to become Catholic? Her parents are active Christians and are thankful that Elizabeth is exerting her growing independence in choosing God, even though it means a different way of worship. “She’s old enough to make this decision, and we support that,” says her father Paul.

Sister Sisters

Find out how two siblings became Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist, based in rural Ann Arbor. Sister Mary Joseph, 24, and her sister Sister Mary Jacinta, 20, are both members of the religious community. “We follow the First Commandment with our vow of poverty – that God is our only possession,” says Sr. Mary Jacinta.

Your Marriage Matters

NEW SECTION FOR 2004 • money tips: tired of arguing? 2 steps: discuss and disclose • time: are you making your marriage a priority? • connecting: see what communication can do for you • romance: how busy parents can be intimate and romantic • plus: resources for marriage, a prayer moment and kindness tip

c o l u m n s

6 Dear Fr. Joe: I have a Protestant friend who tells me that we only have nine commandments and In the know with Fr. Joe:

we leave out the commandment about idols. She showed me in her Bible how we left it out. Is that true? Also, why do we have statues in Church if God says not to do it? – Fr. Joseph Krupp

Theology 101 NEW SERIES FOR 2004: This nine-part series will explore the historic Second Vatican Council – the history, the documents and its impact today. Plus: a special gallery of Bishop Carl Mengeling’s personal photos. As a young priest he served as an aide to council Fathers. – Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist

10 When I was 16, I saw a funnel cloud. We left the car and crawled down a culvert, from which we heard and saw the From the Bishop:

wind’s awesome power. I sensed my littleness and God’s greatness. – Bishop Carl F. Mengeling

15 21 to the Church

Work Life: Are you a workaholic? Take this test to find out

– Tim Ryan

The Journey: Parents’ guide: ways to bring your kids back

– Dr. Cathleen McGreal

22 Be honest: do you live life realizing that you need God? Discover the power of praising God with these Spiritual Fitness:

4 spiritual exercises. – Fr. Bill Ashbaugh

Last Word: A journey: walk with me to find yourself.

– Fr. Charles Irvin p l u s

FAITH’s Alton Pelowski interviews the cast of The Lord of the Rings. They talk about good and evil, mercy and temptation.

f the Church Jan 2 | The Most Holy Name of Jesus Jan 3 | The Epiphany of the Lord Jan 4 | St. John Neumann, Bishop Jan 5 | Blessed André Bessette, Religious Jan 6

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The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing

Most Reverend Carl F. Mengeling PUBLISHER

Rev. Charles Irvin FOUNDING EDITOR

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Catholic learning resources from FAITH: FAITH Magazine offers educational resources to enhance your faith between issues. 1 FAITHhelps: the free monthly learning companion to FAITH. View and download past issues on 2 FAITHmag.com the magazine’s web site with daily changing Catholic news and features. 3 FAITHteen.com is the free monthly e-mail magazine for teens.

Jan/Feb 2004 • Volume 4 : Issue 10

Rev. Dwight Ezop EDITOR IN CHIEF

Patrick M. O’Brien MANAGING EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Alton Pelowski ASSISTANT EDITOR/WEBMASTER

Jillane Job SUBSCRIPTIONS/SECRETARY

Evelyn Weitzel

book review: Fr. Charles Irvin reviews Bishop Kenneth Povish’s book

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Patrick Dally GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER

Rev. William Ashbaugh Sr. John Mary Corbett, O.P Bob Horning Elizabeth Johnson Rev. Joseph Krupp Patricia Majher Sr. Maria Gemma Martek, O.P. Cathleen McGreal Sr. Elizabeth Ann O’Reilly, O.P. Cate Preston Tim Ryan Jan Rynearson Sr. Maria Faustina Showalter, O.P. Elizabeth Martin Solsburg CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Margaret Perrone PROOFREADING

Christine Jones James Luning (cover) Philip Shippert

he axiom “smaller is better” has been frequently applied by the manufacturers of electronic and mechanical devices that have increased our quality of life in these times of ours. The axiom has likewise found application in our exchanges of news, information and knowledge in general.

Bishop Kenneth J. Povish taught, preached and wrote in concise ways that reached his listeners very effectively. He had a special talent when it came to taking complex theological concepts and putting them into simple, everyday language that allowed others to clearly see and understand the Christian message and the doctrines of the Church. He did so in a manner that did not reduce and drain meaning or content from the ideas he presented. All of us are forced these days to grab for bits of reflective time in which to better understand who we are and the meaning and purpose of our lives. The Peace I Leave With You provides us with brief moments that are full of spiritual substance and meaning. It is a wonderful gift you can give to those you love. – Fr. Charles Irvin, the founding Editor of FAITH Magazine, now lives an active retirement in DeWitt.

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bob Patten CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATOR

Wayne Case Vicki Bedard David Fenech Patricia Garcia Diane Nowak Margaret Perrone James Rhadigan Ricardo Rodriguez David Rosenberg Rev. James Swiat Peter Wagner Sharon Wimple ADVISORY BOARD

Rev. Cecilio Reyna WEB MINISTRY

Elizabeth Martin Solsburg FAITHhelps

Tim Ryan FAITH Magazine Service

Rogers Printing PRINTING FAITH (USPS 019993) is a membership publication of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing, 300 W. Ottawa, Lansing, MI 48933. Published monthly except February and August. Subscription rates are $15 per year. Individual issues are $2.50. Send all subscription information and address changes to 300 W. Ottawa, Lansing, MI 48933; (517) 342-2595; fax (517) 342-2537 or e-mail j job@dioceseoflansing.org. Periodicals Postage Paid at Lansing, MI or additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: FAITH, 300 W. Ottawa, Lansing, MI 48933. ©Catholic Diocese of Lansing.

Bishop Povish’s first and only book is now available f a i t h

b o o k s

FAITH Magazine and The Catholic Times are pleased to present The Peace I Leave With You – 40 reflections selected from the writings of Bishop Povish. Prior to his death, Sept. 5, 2003, Bishop Povish worked on the manuscript of this book – his parting gift to the people of God, a final message of hope and consolation. The book is available in Catholic bookstores in the Diocese of Lansing. ISBN 1-594670-70-6

Online Ordering: You can now order the book at Amazon.com or FAITHmag.com

St. Raymond of Peñafort, Priest Jan 7 | The Baptism of the Lord Jan 11 | St. Hilary, Bishop and Doctor of the Church Jan 13 | St. Anthony, Abbot Jan 17 | St. Fabian, Pope and Martyr Ja

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of Americans with school-age children said they planned to send their child to a parochial school this year Gallup Sept. 2003

100 years: National Catholic Education Association

n 2004, the National Catholic Education

Association celebrates its 100th anniversary serving Catholic educators and Catholic education from preschool through seminary across the country. Catholic Schools Week (CSW) celebrations began nearly 30 years ago as a joint venture of the NCEA and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Catholic Schools Week: Jan. 25-30 This year, schools throughout the Lansing Diocese will celebrate CSW in their individual buildings with a variety of activities including open houses, appreciation luncheons for teachers, support staff and parents, alumni gatherings and community service projects. Catholic Schools Week Mass Monday, Jan. 26 Bishop Carl Mengeling will celebrate a special CSW Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral. All diocesan schools are invited to attend the Mass and many schools will participate in the planning of the liturgy. Representatives from each of the attending schools will participate in a special activity related to this year’s CSW theme: “Catholic Schools: A Faith-Filled Future.” For more on Catholic education contact a parish school in your area or contact the Diocese of Lansing Department of Education Office: (517) 342-2482.

St. Adrian was so humble he passed on a promotion s a i n t

o f

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St. Adrian of Canterbury Died: Jan. 9, 710 Feast Day: Jan. 9 Adrian was an African who became the abbot of the Benedictine monastery of Nerida, Italy, when he was a young man. He became renowned for his piety and scholasticism, and his virtues came to the attention of the pope. When St. Deusdedit, the archbishop of Canterbury, died in 664, Pope Vitalian wanted Adrian to replace him. Adrian demurred, telling the pope he was unworthy. He suggested Theodore of Tarsus be elevated instead, and offered to act as the assistant to the new archbishop. His scariest moment: On March 26, 668, Theodore was consecrated archbishop of Canterbury. He and Adrian set sail immediately thereafter for England. On the way through France, they were detained by Ebroin, the Mayor of the Palace at Neustria. Ebroin suspected that Adrian was on a secret mission from Constans II, the Eastern Emperor. Theodore was allowed to proceed, but Adrian was held captive. After two years, Ebroin had no evidence to support his suspicions, and Adrian was released to continue his journey. He was known for: As soon as he arrived in England, Adrian was consecrated abbot of Saint Peter in Canterbury, a monastery founded by St. Augustine himself. Adrian also accompanied Theodore on his apostolic visits throughout England, and aided him in bringing the practices of the Anglo-Saxon church into conformity with those of Rome. He was also known for: Adrian was a learned man and a gifted teacher. He established many schools in England, including the School of Canterbury, which educated many saints and missionaries. His students were famous for their scholarship, and Adrian was famous for helping them. After his death, Adrian was credited with miracles to aid students who were in trouble with their masters. Adrian spent 39 years in England, and died in 710. He is buried in his adopted home of Canterbury, and his feast day is celebrated on Jan. 9. Why he is a First Commandment saint: Adrian, like Augustine before him, put the Lord before everything else in his life. He serves, with all other missionaries, as a model of devotion to God. – Elizabeth Martin Solsburg

Martyr Jan 20 | St. Sebastian, Martyr Jan 20 | St. Agnes, Virgin and Martyr Jan 21 | St. Vincent, Deacon and Martyr Jan 22 | St. Francis de Sales, Bishop and Doctor of the Church Jan 24

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Dear Fr. Joe: I have a Protestant friend who tells me that we only have nine commandments and we leave out the commandment about idols. She showed me in her Bible how we left it out. Is that true? Also, why do we have statues in churches if God says not to do it?

ope, not true. Let’s take a look at the commandment format, because the answer lies there. Turn your Bible to Exodus 20:1-17. You there? Exodus! After Genesis and before Leviticus. Got it? Good! Okay, now in the first part of the commandments, we see there are two ideas: first that we should worship God alone and second that we should not carve idols and worship them. If we then look at verse 17, we see again two ideas, first that we should not covet our neighbor’s goods, and second that we should not covet our neighbor’s wife. So, an abbreviated version of the commandments would look like this:

k n o w

w i t h

C. Jones

Dear Fr. Joe: do Catholics only have 9 commandments? F r .

J o e

Have you heard the story about the doctor talking to a lawyer at a party? Their conversation was constantly interrupted by people asking the doctor medical questions. Finally, the doctor turned to the lawyer and asked if people were constantly peppering him with legal questions. The lawyer said “Sure, it used to be a problem, but then I started sending out bills and it quit right away.” The doctor thought it a great idea and went home from the party and wrote out a bunch of bills. When he went to put them in the mailbox the next day, he found a bill from the lawyer. 1 Worship God alone; do not carve and worship idols. 2 Do not take God’s name in vain. 3 Keep the Sabbath holy. 4 Honor your parents. 5 Do not kill. 6 Do not commit adultery. 7 Do not steal. 8 Do not bear false witness. 9 Do not covet your neighbor’s spouse. 10 Do not covet your neighbor’s goods. That is our ten. (cf. Deut 5:6Some translations – like the one above – combine the first two commandments and split the last two, others split the first two and join the last two. Some of our well-meaning Protestant brothers and sisters may have seen our list and wondered where the injunction against carving and worshiping idols is. Now, if the commandment

21)

forbids us from carving “graven images,” why do we have statues in churches? Again, let’s go to the source. Exodus 20:4-6 goes like this: “You shall not carve idols for yourselves in the shape of anything in the sky above or on the earth below or in the waters beneath the earth; you shall not bow down before them or worship them. For I, the Lord, your God, am a jealous God, inflicting punishment for their fathers’ wickedness on the children of those who hate me, down to the third and fourth generation; but bestowing mercy down to the thousandth generation, on the children of those who love me and keep my commandments.” So, why do we make statues? The commandment forbids the creation of images that we worship, but not the creation of holy images to

joeinblack@priest.com

help our worship. At times in the Scriptures, God commanded the creation of images and statues to help people pray. Here are a few examples: In the book of Numbers, God has the Israelites construct a bronze serpent that they should look at when bitten by snakes so that they could be healed. Another example comes from God giving instructions to David concerning how to build the first temple. According to the Bible, God gave David explicit instructions, which included the creation of statues of angels. (1 Chron 28:18-19) In this second example, God is explaining how to decorate the tent of the Lord’s presence: “And you shall make two cherubim of gold (i.e., two gold statues of angels); of hammered work shall you make them, on the two ends of the mercy seat. Make one cherub on the one end, and one cherub on the other end; of one piece of the mercy seat shall you make the cherubim on its two ends. The cherubim shall spread out their wings above, overshadowing the mercy seat with their wings, their faces one to another; toward the mercy seat shall the faces of the cherubim be.” (Exod 25:18–20) Now, look at Ezekiel 41:17–18. Here, God is describing the construction of graven (carved) images in the future temple. God gives

Ss. Timothy and Titus, Bishops Jan 26 | St. Angela Merici, Virgin Jan 27 | St. Thomas Aquinas, Priest and Doctor of the Church Jan 28 | St. John Bosco, Priest Jan 31 | The Presentat

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what year did the pope say ‘God bless you’ is the correct response after a sneeze?

77%

Gallup Nov. 2003

p o l l

q u i z

It’s not just polite, it’s the law. Pope Gregory the Great decreed that saying “God Bless You” is the correct response to a sneeze, on Feb. 16, WHAT YEAR?

When is your favorite time to pray?

We asked parishioners at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Ann Arbor, “When is your favorite time to pray?”

Finally making cold weather driving more enjoyable – especially in Michigan – the Hudson Motor Car Company of Detroit introduced the first fully-enclosed hardtop automobile on Jan. 11, WHAT YEAR? Bishop Joseph Burke of the Diocese of Buffalo, N.Y., declared that Chubby Checker’s signature dance, the Twist, was “impure,” and banned it from all Catholic schools in his jurisdiction, on Jan. 26, WHAT YEAR? Billy, Dolly, Jeffy and PJ were introduced to readers when the Bill Keane comic strip, “The Family Circus,” debuted on Feb. 19, WHAT YEAR? The popular comic often features Catholic themes, and the “Family Circus” kids are featured on promotions for Catholic schools. (This year, Catholic School Week is Jan. 25-31.) Answers 600, 1913, 1962, 1960

Ezekiel a vision and describes the walls of the temple as having carvings of angels. Now, in a previous issue, I wrote about why we pray to saints, so I will hit this one real quick. We believe that saints are people who are in heaven and standing in the sight of God. We ask them for prayers, just like we ask our friends and neighbors that we can see for prayers. We don’t worship the statues. We use them to stimulate our imagination while we ask them to pray for us or when we remember their stories of faith. I could keep going, but you get the idea. God understands that we are physical beings who need physical signs. In

of Americans disapproved of the federal court decision to remove the Ten Commandments monument from the Alabama court building

the same way that you and I carry around pictures of our family, we need to carry in our hearts the images of people who inspire our faith and teach us how to live. So, go to your church, see the statues and thank God for the men and women who inspire us. For a great site on how to defend our faith, I highly recommend www.catholic.com. It absolutely rocks! Enjoy another day in God’s presence! Send your Questions to: “In the Know with Fr. Joe” FAITH Magazine 300 W. Ottawa, Lansing, MI 48933

Or: JoeInBlack@priest.com

“I love to pray alone in my room when the house is quiet, and everyone is off to work or school.” – Kim Johnson

“In the morning, although I can be struck by the desire to pray at almost any time.” – Tom Loewe

“Saturday mornings, near the tabernacle when the church is quiet – often with a couple other men.” – Ken Norman

Perpetual Adoration: Many people discover that Eucharistic adoration is a source of holiness and fulfillment. This opportunity is available around the clock in chapels at the following parishes: Lansing: Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish Jackson: Queen of the Miraculous Medal Parish Flint: Holy Redeemer Parish Ann Arbor: Christ the King Parish

World Youth Day 2005 Cologne, Germany 13-Days: Aug. 10-22, 2005 Join fellow young people from the Diocese of Lansing Cost per person: $2,550 Highlights: • Accommodations arranged by the diocesan group leader. Housing will be in private homes, churches, schools, etc • You will get to know the culture, citizens and spirituality of that particular region of Germany • Most meals are provided by your diocesan hosts or families • Courtesy motor coach transfer from one central pick-up location

• Rhine River cruise • Sightseeing tour of Cologne, including Cologne Cathedral and major city sights • Opening ceremony for World Youth Day • Catechetical sessions and afternoon festival activities • Pilgrimage walk to venue for evening vigil • Overnight at vigil site • Morning final Mass with the Holy Father (subject to final schedule) Note: Itinerary subject to change To Register: Contact your youth minister or Mary Lou Hahn-Setta at (734) 475-3250 or ymhahn61@hotmail.com Registration deadline: Feb. 28, 2004 with $150 deposit.

Presentation of the Lord Feb 2 | St. Blaise, Bishop and Martyr Feb 3 | St. Ansgar, Bishop Feb 3 | St. Agatha, Virgin and Martyr Feb 5 | St. Paul Miki and Companions, Martyrs Feb 6

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The Legacy of Popes John and Paul part 1 of a 9-part series on the Second Vatican Council t h e o l o g y

1 0 1

p a r t

V a t i c a n

When Karol Wojtyla stepped out onto the balcony overlooking St. Peter’s square after his election on Oct. 16, 1978, he was introduced to the world as Pope John Paul II. The selection of his name was partly to honor his immediate predecessor, John Paul I, who died after a brief 33-day reign, but more significantly to represent the new pontiff’s mission: to explain, defend and fulfill the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, which was convened under Pope John XXIII and Pope Paul VI. A rare and important event: The Second Vatican Council was only the 21st ecumenical council in the 2,000-year history of the Catholic Church. An ecumenical council is a gathering of all the bishops of the world – “ecumenical,” meaning universal – which, when summoned by the bishop of Rome, constitutes the highest teaching authority in the Church. Councils have been convened throughout the ages at crucial moments in Church history: to refute heresy, resolve crises, discuss matters of doctrine and issue formal pronouncements about matters of faith and morals. Most of the councils were called in response to some error or false teaching, and resulted in the definition of doctrine, such as the Trinity, the Incarnation, Mary as the Mother of God, etc. Vatican II is unique in that it was called primarily to be a pastoral council, rather than a response to a crisis. Jesus endowed His Church with the Holy Spirit: He wanted to ensure the handing on of the faith. This is done through the teaching authority of the Church called the Magisterium. When the bishops are

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united in communion with the bishop of Rome in an ecumenical council, they enjoy infallibility in their pronouncements on faith and morals. A council does not produce innovations in doctrine or the faith. Rather, it makes more explicit those existing matters of the deposit of faith in continuity with the Tradition of the Church. Why was the council held? The Second Vatican Council was of a pastoral nature, rather than one called to condemn errors. Pope John XXIII, who convened the council, desired it to increase the “fervor and energy of Catholics and serve the needs of Christian people.” He hoped the council would communicate and promote the universal call to holiness attainable by every person, and instill a missionary spirit in the hearts of all Christians. To do this, the Church needed to better instruct the faithful of all ages in faith and morals, to proclaim the boundless depths of God’s mercy, and to engage Christians in the modern world. Pope John expressed his desires for up-to-date renewal of the Church in one word – aggiornamento. When asked to explain his prayers and hopes for the council, he simply went to a window and threw it open, letting the fresh breeze wafting into the room express his intentions in a single gesture. How did the Church prepare? The Church, in the three years preceding the council, embarked on an intense time of prayer, reflection and preparation. Bishops around the world submitted proposals for subjects to be discussed; more than 2,000 lists of proposals were submitted with detailed opinions from theologians. In June 1960, the Holy Father established 10 commissions to study particular questions, including Scripture, Tradition, faith and morals, bishops and the control of dioceses, religious orders, the Liturgy, seminaries and ecclesiastical studies, missions, the Eastern Churches and the lay apostolate. What was Pope John XXIII’s opening message? The council opened on Oct. 11, 1962, with a solemn Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica, with more than 2,500 bishops present – the greatest gathering at any council in the history of the Church. After the Mass, Pope John addressed the council Fathers, communicating to them the direction and spirit of the council. Pope John emphasized that the Church must proclaim God’s mercy and understanding, and pour out the riches the Church had received from Christ upon all people who place all their trust in God. The task of the council was to find ways that the Church could present itself to the world of today, and reach the minds and hearts of all. Numbers: Second Vatican Council 4 sessions under Pope John XXIII from 1962 to 1965 9 months total of formal meetings 3 sessions under Pope Paul VI after John XXIII’s death 2 labels that were used to describe council Fathers: reactionaries: who wanted the Church to remain as it was progressives: who wanted to initiate change. (John Paul II) 16constitutions produced 4 constitutions are considered key documents: • On the Church (Lumen Gentium) • Sacred Liturgy (Sacrosanctum Concilium) • Divine Revelation (Dei Verbum) • The Church in the Modern World (Gaudium et Spes) The documents showed the world how the Church was adapting to modern times while holding fast to the treasures of its 2,000-year history.

The single best way to really grasp the teachings of the Second Vatican Council is to read the documents. Visit your local Catholic bookstore for a comprehensive volume of conciliar and post-conciliar documents, or log onto the Vatican’s Web site: www.vatican.va/archive/ St. Scholastica, Virgin Feb 10 | Our Lady of Lourdes Feb 11 | St. Cyril, Monk Feb 14 | St. Methodius, Bishop Feb 14 | Seven Founders of the Order of Servites

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Bishop Mengeling’s personal photos of the council

In St. Peter’s Basilica, Fr. Mengeling is seated in section of bishops he was aiding at the council.

bishops put on vestments in preparation for the opening procession

history of the 21 councils 1 Nicaea I 325 •Nicene Creed formulated •Affirmed the divinity of Christ •Fixed the date of Easter 2 Constantinople I 381 •Dogma of the Most Holy Trinity •Declared the Holy Spirit to be consubstantial (of the same substance, therefore divine) with the Father and the Son •Nicene Creed finished and promulgated (“I believe in the Holy Spirit ... life everlasting” added to the end) 3 Ephesus 431 •Dogma of the Incarnation – God truly became man •Declared Mary the Mother of God (Theotokos) 4 Chalcedon 451 •Affirmed that Jesus is one person with two natures: human and divine 5 Constantinople II 553 •Hypostatic union: Jesus was inseparably true God and true man 6 Constantinople III 680 •Defined that Christ had two wills, human and divine 7 Nicaea II 787 •Affirmed that because the Word became flesh, holy images and statues are legitimate and worthy of veneration 8 Constantinople IV 869 •Deposed Photius, the unlawful Patriarch of Constantinople and restored the patriarchy to Ignatius, beginning the schism

between the Eastern and Western Churches 9 Lateran I 1123 •Issued decrees on simony (buying/selling of Church offices), investiture and clerical celibacy 10 Lateran II 1139 •Ended the papal schism •Reforms on Holy Orders 11 Lateran III 1179 •Reaffirmed the Sacraments •Declared that a priest’s sinfulness does not invalidate sacraments •Regulated Papal Elections: To elect a pope, the college of cardinals must vote with a two-thirds majority 12 Lateran IV 1215 •Defined transubstantiation: Holy Eucharist is the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Christ under the accidents of bread and wine •Issued decrees on annual reception of the sacraments of confession and Holy Communion 13 Lyons I 1245 •Planned crusade to the Holy Land •Deposed Emperor Frederick II for sacrilege and heresy •Addressed clerical morality 14 Lyons II 1274 •Temporarily reunited the Greek Church with Rome •Made 31 decrees •Mandated that unleavened bread be used for the Eucharist 15 Vienne 1311-1312 •Abolished the Knights Templars 16 Constance 1414-1418 •Ended Great Western Schism •Decreed that ecumenical councils have authority over the Church 17 Basel, Ferrara, Florence 1431-1445 •Eastern Church agreement on

photo by C. Mengeling

Bishop Carl Mengeling (then Father first row, center) was a student in Rome and served as an aid to the council Fathers. He took many photos – look for them throughout this year’s series. Pope John XXIII is carried into the basilica for the council opening

2,500 bishops from around the world process into St. Peter’s Basilica for the council opening

what they prayed: the Holy Spirit, purgatory and Eucharist decrees from Lyons II •Affirmed the seven sacraments 18 Lateran V 1512-1517 •Reasserted: soul is form of body •Decree on indulgences •Clarified the relation of the pope to an ecumenical council 19 Trent 1545-1563 •Condemned Protestantism •Decrees on grace, sin, merit, justification and sanctification •Affirmed Scripture and Tradition as the full deposit of faith •Defined the theology of the sacraments as a matter of faith •Established seminary system to train men for the priesthood •Defined infant baptism 20 Vatican I 1869-1870 •Defined papal infallibility when the Pope speaks ex cathedra (from the chair) on matters of faith and morals •Reaffirmed Church teachings on revelation and the relationship between faith and reason 21 Vatican II 1962-1965 •Promulgated 16 documents •Allowed for native language to be used during liturgy •Affirmed the role of the laity

Veni Creator Spiritus dates back to the ninth century. It has been solemnly chanted at the beginning of every new year, every new century, every ecumenical council, every conclave and many of the most solemn events of the Church since that time. Come Creator Spirit visit the minds of those who are yours; fill with heavenly grace the hearts you have created. You who are called the Paraclete, gift of God’s most high living fountain, fire, love and spiritual anointing for the soul. You are sevenfold in your gifts the finger of God’s right hand, you, the Father’s solemn promise giving words to our lips. Kindle a light in our senses pour love into our hearts, infirmities of this body of ours overcoming with strength secure The enemy drive from us away, give us peace without delay, with you as guide to lead the way we avoid all cause of harm. Grant we may know the Father through You, and come to know the Son as well, and may we always cling in faith to you, the spirit of them both. Amen.

– Sr. Maria Faustina Showalter, O.P., Sr. John Mary Corbett, O.P., Sr. Maria Gemma Martek, O.P., and Sr. Elizabeth Ann O’Reilly, O.P., are Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist, Ann Arbor. of Servites, Religious Feb 17 | St. Peter Damian, Bishop and Doctor of the Church Feb 21 | St. Polycarp, Bishop and Martyr Feb 23 | Ash Wednesday Feb 25

photo by C. Mengeling

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The 10 Commandments the first commandment is the foundation for the rest f r o m

t h e

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When I was 16, I saw a funnel cloud. We left the car and crawled down a culvert, from which we heard and saw the wind’s awesome power. I sensed my littleness and God’s greatness.

Bob Patten

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FAITH is devoting this year’s issues to the Decalogue – God’s “Ten Words.” Some will say, “Aren’t there a lot more timely and relevant topics? Besides, the commandments are passé and irrelevant for modern man.”

These issues of FAITH will reveal how real, relevant and timely the Ten Commandments are for all times – especially our “modern” time. They have taught and guided countless millions in the ways of happiness. More than 3,000 years ago, Moses lifted up the two stone tablets and said, “I set before you life or death, blessing or a curse. Choose life, that you and your descendants may live, by loving the Lord, your God, heeding His voice and holding fast to Him.”

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Because the First Commandment is the foundation for the rest, Moses composed the schema for all to memorize: “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your strength.” As a constant reminder, he ordered the schema written on a tiny scroll and put in a locket for the wrist or a pendant on the forehead. It was also at the entrance doorpost of the house. Two millennia ago, Jesus, the new Moses, reaffirmed the Decalogue. The rich young man asked, “Teacher, what must I do to have eternal life?” Jesus responded, “If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” On another occasion, Jesus adds to the schema. A lawyer asked, “Teacher, which commandment is the greatest?” Jesus quotes Moses’ schema and adds, “This is the greatest and first commandment. The second is like it. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Now, in the third millennium, the message is the same. These commandments, imprinted in our humanity and confirmed by divine revelation, are as real and necessary as ever. The decision between “life or death” and “blessing or curse” is inescapable and clearly evident in all human choices. In 2001, Pope John Paul II addressed thousands of youth in Ukraine, saying, “The Decalogue is like a compass in a stormy sea that enables us to stay the course and reach land.” When he made his Jubilee pilgrimage to Mount Sinai in 2000, the Holy Father said the following: “Today as always, the Ten Words provide the only true basis for the lives of individuals, societies and nations. Today as always, they are the only future of the human family. They save man from the destructive force of egoism, hatred and falsehood. They point out the false gods that draw man into slavery: love of self to the exclusion of God, greed for power and pleasure that overturns justice and degrades our human dignity and neighbor. ... To keep the commandments is to be faithful to God, to ourselves, to our true nature and our deepest aspirations.” My first contact with the Ten Commandments was as an elementary student, when we learned them by heart. Thanks to Sister Clarilla (guess what we called her), we learned how they were linked. She drew a 10-story building on the chalkboard. The lower three floors were alike and large. The other seven rose above this broad base. Starting at the bottom, she wrote a commandment on each floor. I can still hear her, saying, “The lower three are about knowing, loving and worshiping God. The other seven are about loving our neighbor. If you remove the lower three, the other seven will fall down.” Our eighth grade teacher, Sister Fridian, tried to shed light on the seven about our neighbor. She said that they protected something precious and necesRead more of Bishop Mengeling’s writings on FAITHmag.com

C. Jones

“Like many, my focus in the First Commandment was on the ‘strange gods,’ which I usually thought of as horrible idols or creatures. It would be a while before I learned that the “strange god” could be me. Looking back, I know God was present – opening me up and drawing me.”

sary. The Fourth Commandment protects the family; the Fifth, life; the Sixth, marriage; the Seventh, property; and the Eighth, reputation. The Ninth and Tenth warn us not to even think about or desire what belongs to another. It would take some years for this to sink in. It was a spark that lighted up my awareness that behind the “no” of the commandments is an immense “yes.” Yes, it’s still the First Commandment. The truth of the schema, fulfilled in Jesus who reveals the Father and reveals man, centers in God. Like many, my focus in the First Commandment was on the “strange gods,” which I usually thought of as horrible idols or creatures. It would be a while before I learned that the “strange god” could be me. Looking back, I know God was present – opening me up and drawing me. Then, I was only aware of wonder, power and mystery in an intuitive way. I had some experiences, perhaps like yours, which were like a prelude to all later developments. They may seem strange, but they were openings to the mystery. I recall as a boy, touching the warm clutch of eggs under a hen and the next day touching her brood of downy chicks. I recall swaying in the wind in a tree hut built in the highest fork of a giant poplar. I had my first brush with death at age 14, when Aunt Caroline died. At Mass the next Sunday, I sensed God’s healing presence. A sense of divine presence was also very strong at midnight Mass, the solemn closing of Forty Hours and the outdoor Corpus Christi Mass and procession. At 16, a friend and I had been hunting near Kentland, and as we were driving, the sky drew dreadfully dark and windy. Then, we saw a funnel. We left the car and crawled down a culvert, from which we heard and saw the wind’s awesome power. After it had passed, we saw a long row of trees split in the middle. I sensed my littleness and the greatness of God. A year later, in September 1948, I had an experience of divine intervention. At age 17, I had just graduated high school. In late summer, I had asked to try the seminary, but there were no vacancies. The day before classes began at the seminary, my pastor was phoned by the rector. One of the students decided to drop out. That same day, the assistant priest and I drove the 300 miles to St. Meinrad Seminary. All of these encounters and events were opening me to the mystery of God, although I had little understanding then. By divine providence, they paved the way for me to know, love and serve God, whom Jesus reveals as Father. Jesus’ words as the incarnate Son of God – one of us – open us to the Father. “He who sees me sees the Father. The Father and I are one.” As the new Adam, Jesus shows us how to keep the First Commandment. – Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling is the fourth bishop of Lansing. January/February 2004

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Growing up in Romania in the 1960s and 1970s under communist rule, life seemed hopeless for Daniel Dragan. So at age 19, when he was in the army, he put an AK47 automatic rifle to his heart so that his suicide attempt couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t possibly fail. Now, he tells his story to FAITH Magazine. As a youth in my small village in the eastern part of the country near the Russian border, I was taught in school by communists. They told us that the Church just takes your mind, takes your money, and when you pray, there is nobody there. They made fun of Moses and Jesus, calling them fakes. If you owned a Bible, you could go to jail. When I was a boy, I saw a bulldozer destroy a church. They even destroyed churches that were 500 years old. The government kept a few for Western eyes, to demonstrate that religion was permitted. Under President (Nicolae) Ceausescu, a generation of Romanians became atheists. By Bob Horning | Photography by James Luning

January/February 2004

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When I was 12, I started going to libraries in my town and those nearby, trying to figure out what to do with my life. I couldn’t find a single book about God. All the books told about communism, but I didn’t believe them because I had seen the lies in the lives of communists. Later, God put a desire in my heart to become a sailor. I didn’t realize it was God at the time because I didn’t know Him. Nor did I know how that could come about, since normally you had to be a party member and had to be married in order to be a sailor. Having a family made it less likely that you would flee the country when you entered foreign ports. I wanted to get out and see the world. At age 18, though, like all Romanians, I had to join the army. Within a year, I had given up hope of becoming a sailor. It seemed like my dreams were over. For six months, Satan – looking back, I now know who it was – had been hypnotizing me, convincing me that there was no way out of my futility. The only escape was to kill myself. I believed his logic as if they were my own thoughts. As I was ready to pull the trigger, a voice spoke to me: “Why don’t you give yourself a chance? See what happens in the next few months.” Right away, the devil said, “No, you won’t have another chance.” Positive and negative voices were arguing in my mind. Then, it was as if a veil came off. I suddenly realized that my

suicidal thoughts were foolish. Out of my mouth came the words, six or seven times, “I want to live. I want to live.” Things didn’t change right away, or in three months, but in a few years they did. Through my mother’s intervention with the officials in charge of hiring personnel for cargo ships, God worked a miracle and I became a sailor at age 22. On my first trip, we went to seven countries in Europe, Asia and Africa. It opened my eyes to see that I had been living in prison. Soon God put another seed in my heart – to leave Romania. For two years, I wondered how and where. Finally, the opportunity came in Greece. When we reached port, I said I was going to the beach, and even took a towel to fool everyone on the ship. Instead, I went to the town, then took a bus to Athens. When I asked for asylum in Athens, the officials said they would grant it if I told them military secrets. I refused – not only because I didn’t know any, but I wouldn’t have betrayed my people. I cared about my country even if I hated the communists. So they said I couldn’t stay. After living with gypsies for a while, a friend and I decided to stowaway on a ship. We sneaked on and went down to the cargo hold. There we stayed for three days. When we docked, we were discovered, handcuffed, and taken to the captain. Because he could get in trouble for transporting refugees, he told his officers to get rid of us – which meant we would probably be sent back to Romania by the police who checked everyone coming off the ship. However, God had a way of providing. Our clothes and body had become so dirty from being in the hold that the police thought we were workers and waved us through. We were in Naples, Italy. Try as we might, we were unable to find work in Italy, so we headed for Switzerland. Surely, such a nice country would have some work for us. Coming to a town on the border, we learned an amazing thing – half of the town was in Italy and the other half in Switzerland. We found a backyard where we could climb over the barbed wire fence at night and into Switzerland. We had no identification or passport to show. If they found out we were Romanians, we would have been returned to our country. But soon after jumping the fence we were caught by the police and sent back to Italy. Each country that we were hoping to stay in and work in turned us away. From Italy, we went to France. There we lived at a homeless shelter for six months before the immigration service told us we had to leave. I appealed to be sent to the U.S., and somehow was accepted. That was the summer of 1989. I was sponsored by Catholic Relief Services, and one of the cities they arbitrarily send people to is Lansing. It had been a long time and a long journey from Romania to the States. Once I arrived in Lansing, I worked for a year at different places like a car wash and a dairy, before being hired by a company that makes airplane parts. I still work there. I had wanted to find out if God was real when I came to the U.S. I only thought of Him as a legend before. I couldn’t find Him among my acquaintances, though. They just seemed to be interested in partying on weekends. In fact, I got in trouble by following their advice. They

Ministry Focus: For more information on becoming Catholic contact a parish near you. To find parish information in t

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When the priest absolved me of my sins, I felt like I was ready to die. I had made peace with God. Before meeting God, whenever good things would happen to me, I thought to myself what a lucky guy I was. But it wasn’t luck. It was God caring for me, even though I didn’t know it.

told me that the best way to learn English was to have a close friend. That friend became pregnant, and I became the father of twin daughters, who are now 13 years old. They live with their mother, but I share the cost of raising them, see them every day, and teach them the Catholic faith. I am proud of the way they stand up for the Church among their peers. In my search for God, I tried many churches – Baptist, Pentecostal, Spiritualist. I read a lot, and when I found some Catholic books at a second-hand bookstore and began reading about apparitions that occurred at Fatima and Medjugorje, I realized that Mary had never left the Catholic Church. Then I read that Catholics believe that the Eucharist is the real Body and Blood of Christ. I wanted that. Not long after, I went to confession. When the priest absolved me of my sins, I felt like I was ready to die. I had made peace with God. Before meeting God, whenever good things would happen to me, I thought to myself what a lucky guy I was. But it wasn’t luck. It was God caring for me, even though I didn’t know it. I attend Mass and the rosary group at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in East Lansing, and I go to the prayer group at Immaculate Heart of Mary in Lansing. Since becoming Catholic, I pray every day and read about the Church. I haven’t been to a bar in 13 years, since the girls were born. I used to lose my temper often, offend people and always complain. However, since the Lord has shown me His love and care, I try to love my neighbor as myself. My life has changed greatly in the U.S., and I love this country. Four countries rejected me, but not America. Still, I haven’t forgotten Romania. My mother is there with my mentally handicapped sister. They get support from my sister’s Medicare, from relatives and from the money I send. My father, who is a retired veterinarian, and divorced from my mother, became an Orthodox believer shortly after Ceausescu was executed on Christmas Day 1989. It made him understand that communism would not last forever. In fact, my whole extended family now attends the Orthodox Church – it is the only church in my village. I like to think it is the result of my letters and phone calls, telling them about how God has taken control of my life. As for the future, I don’t make plans because I made plans in the past and they didn’t work. Nonetheless, one day, praying before the tabernacle, I told God that I didn’t want to make airplanes anymore. I said, “I am submitting an application to work full-time for you.” I think the Lord told me I would be going back to Romania from time to time, to work for the unification of the Catholic and Orthodox Church, and that He would provide the money. I would like to translate religious books, which will be mostly Catholic, into Romanian, and open a store there selling books and videos. It could be hard in some ways to go back, but Christianity isn’t all happiness. We also need to sacrifice and share in Jesus’ sorrow and cross.

on in the Diocese of Lansing, log onto www.DioceseofLansing.org

are you a workaholic? take this test to find out

C. Jones

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w o r k l i f e

tryan@faithmag.com

hat is a god? Webster’s dictionary in part defines a god as the “principal object of faith and worship.” So what is faith? Faith is defined as “confident belief in the truth, value, or trustworthiness of a person, idea or thing.” Thus it follows that whatever I believe in, value and trust the most, is in effect a god to me. This should then beg the question: are there things in my life in which I put more value or trust than God Himself? Young people are encouraged to go to college so that they can get good jobs, and thus provide themselves with long term financial security. Now, there’s nothing inherently wrong with this approach. It’s very logical and practical. But at what point does this focus in life become our god, in which we put our primary value and trust? Our secular culture teaches us that peace of mind comes from our ability to control our financial security – health insurance, retirement benefits, etc. Our jobs are typically our means for pursuing this security. But the Gospel teaches us that peace of mind comes from trusting that God knows what we need, and He’ll take care of those things for us as long as we are focused first on seeking God’s kingdom, which involves loving and serving God and one another. (Luke 12:29-31) Which of these teachings do you find easier to follow? The following is a short test to help you reflect on where you put your trust. Would you uproot and relocate your family at God’s request, just as Abraham did? Would you uproot and relocate your family to secure a better, higher paying job? Would you be willing to travel a lot in order to spread the Gospel, just as Jesus and His disciples did? Would you be willing to travel a lot for the sake of a well-paying, secure job? Would you sacrifice your life in the name of God, just as so many martyrs have done? Do you sacrifice your health because of the stress associated with maintaining your job security? These comparisons may seem a bit extreme, but they should prompt us to think about where we find our truth, value and trust. Why might we be willing to do some things in the name of job security, but would have to think really hard about doing them in the name of God? So, the next time you are faced with a tough moral decision at work, will you allow God to work through you, trusting in His care? Or will you allow your fears related to job security dictate your actions?

– Tim Ryan is an information technology professional in Fowlerville and has earned a master’s degree in pastoral studies from Loyola University New Orleans. He is a member of St. Joseph Parish, Gaines January/February 2004

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Elizabeth’s own path How her family reacted when she decided to become a Catholic Elizabeth finds herself growing closer to God in unexpected ways, such as during Mass, when the priest holds up the Eucharist. “It’s one thing to be told. It’s another to understand.”

Parents often fear their teenage sons or daughters will turn away from their family and faith, pulled off course by secular distractions and temptations. Members of the Ann Arbor Christian Reformed Church, Paul and Katherine Gottschalk find themselves stretched in an entirely different direction by their teenage daughter, Elizabeth. Enrolled in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) at St. Francis Parish, Ann Arbor, Elizabeth will be welcomed into the Catholic Church at the 2004 Easter Vigil Mass. Elizabeth, the oldest of three children, is a sophomore at Pioneer High School. An enthusiast of The Lord of the Rings and Simon and Garfunkel, she loves to bake – especially anything involving a cake mix – and sews her own clothes, thinking the current clothing trends depressing in both color and in modesty. Elizabeth finds herself growing closer to God in unexpected ways, such as during Mass, when the priest holds up the Eucharist. “It’s one thing to be told. It’s another to understand. A couple of times, when I heard the priest say, ‘This is Jesus,’ I By Cate Preston | Photography by Christine Jones

could feel Him. It is like when you’re in a room with someone famous, someone you really like, and you have a feeling of awe – that you’re so lucky to be with that person. And that Person is here, and He is God. Since then, when I hear the words ‘Happy are those who are called to His supper,’ it makes me jealous. Not jealous, in that I don’t want others to have it, but in that I want it, too. But I can’t – yet,” she says, with anticipation. Elizabeth eagerly builds prayer time into her life, while just a short time ago her parents used to have to twist her arm to pray. “I’ll say a decade of the rosary, say thank you, and confess anything I did wrong. I’ll ask for prayers for people I’ve promised to pray for. ... It’s comforting to talk to God.” Though her family is very involved with their church, and Elizabeth has always considered herself to be a spiritual person, Elizabeth notes that she receives spiritual graces that extend beyond increased prayer. “Before, when I’d go on retreats, I’d be excited about going back and evangelizing. But a day or so later, life would be ‘back to normal.’ Now, it’s never ‘back to normal.’ The feeling of being filled with the Holy Spirit stays. I want to show everybody that I’m Christian. I’m always looking for opportunities to talk about my faith. It’s weird for me, because I’m not used to talking about my faith. But I want them to have what I have, because it makes me happy.” As she gains knowledge about her faith, Elizabeth’s excitement heightens. “Before, I thought of myself as ‘Christian’ in general. I didn’t know what a Protestant was, until I was 12. Now I say I’m Catholic. I can’t think of myself as a Protestant anymore.” Looking back to her first Mass in February 2003, Elizabeth remembers thoughts and actions that foreshadowed her decision to become Catholic. “One weekend, my friends Kate and Kathleen were coming to visit. Kate said she could stay overnight only if she could go to Mass. Back then, I thought a church was a church. I was brought up to believe that as long as it was Christian, it didn’t matter what denomination you went to. And, if you missed a Sunday service once in a while, it wasn’t a big deal. But, I wanted Kate to spend the night, so I said OK. I was interested in going to a Catholic church, anyway, because we had a debate about it.” Elizabeth recalls an intangible feeling of something more, something that wasn’t present in her Protestant church. “Afterward, when Kate asked, ‘So, what did you think?’ I said it was different, but it wouldn’t be hard for me to change (churches). And Kate said, ‘Well, it would be hard for me to change.’ I understand what she meant by that, now. I remember asking her, ‘Don’t you want me to be Catholic?’ I was letting my feelings out without realizing it.” Compelled to find out more, but not sure what her next step should be, Elizabeth read books about Catholicism. Like monu-

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Her parents are active Christians and are thankful that Elizabeth is exerting her growing independence in choosing God, even though it means a different way of worship. “She’s old enough to make this decision, and we support that,” says her father Paul. “The fact that she is doing this shows she takes her faith seriously. She has genuine faith. Otherwise, why would she be motivated to do this?”

mental historical events, Elizabeth can remember the exact times and places in her spiritual journey when she made baby steps toward becoming Catholic. “I didn’t know what I wanted to do. I didn’t want to go too fast. I was in biology class when I decided to join RCIA. I was afraid to make the decision, but finally broke through it somehow. Since I decided to take that step, I haven’t had any doubts at all.” When Elizabeth decided to join RCIA, she met with the adult group over the summer. Then, this fall, a teen group was formed. Pattie Scherer, director of the RCIA at St. Francis, raves about Elizabeth’s poise, maturity and spiritual demeanor. “She was with the adults this summer. They were so proud of her. She was right in there with them. It was a wide age range, from 14 to 70. They really connected. Elizabeth has the support of her family. That’s unusual. Even with the adults (in the RCIA program) it’s a sensitive issue. But her parents are behind her 100 percent.” Paul, a computer programmer, explains that he and his wife, Katherine, Assistant Dean for Financial Aid at the University of Michigan, think that one of the unique aspects to their family is their openness. “There’s a lot of love in our family. We aren’t afraid to talk about stereotypical issues like drugs, sex, religion. It’s one of the strengths of our family. The Lord has a lot to do with that.” Even so, Elizabeth was hesitant to approach her parents with her decision to become Catholic. “It’s always been hard for me to talk about my faith. I’ve never been able to pray in front of people. It’s too personal. It’s the same talking about my becoming Catholic with them – too personal,” she explains. Paul is thankful that Elizabeth is exerting her growing independence in choosing God, even though it means a different way of worship. “She’s old enough to make this decision, and we support that,” says Paul. “The fact that she is doing this shows she takes her faith seriously. She has genuine faith. Otherwise, why would she be motivated to do this? If she wasn’t motivated by the Holy Spirit, she’d be spending her time doing worldly things. I feel comfortable about her pursuing this.” Although her parents offer their support, Elizabeth says they are not thrilled about her decision. She describes her new faith as both a source of division and of unity for her family. “My dad is going to let me, but if it were his choice, I think he’d prefer I didn’t. People say you get a lot of your beliefs from your parents – politics, religion. But that’s when you’re young. Now I say, ‘This is what I believe.’ Sometimes, it’s awkward. It’s got to be hard for parents to see their kids choose a different way.” Paul explains that he understands his daughter’s hesitancy. “Some things you instinctively don’t want to tell your parents. It’s embarrassing, and you don’t want to be judged.” More than anything, Paul says he is curious why Elizabeth is choosing to become Catholic. “I wonder what is it that attracts her to the Catholic worship style, and what is it about our church that

doesn’t. I must say, she hasn’t answered that yet. She says I don’t understand. But I have time on my side, and I’m willing to wait. She may not even have it all worked out yet. We’ve had more deep spiritual discussions, which is a good thing, regardless of what spawns it. I talked with her about how it is important to be willing to accept truth, wherever it comes from. Truth comes from more than one place, whether it’s from the Protestant or Catholic faith. My opinion is that we’re all a part of the same universal Church. ... What’s important is that she’s in a place where she worships the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” Elizabeth continues to attend the Ann Arbor Christian Reformed Church with her family, as Paul and Katherine are determined that the family will continue to worship together. Elizabeth spends much of her Sundays at church, going first to Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Parish, and then joining her parents and siblings Ian and Arianna for service and youth group. By exercising her free will, Elizabeth is taking her spiritual journey to the next level. “Before, I would try to do the right thing. Now, I’m more aware of what I should be doing compared to what I am doing. I don’t want to disappoint God.” She goes on to explain the foundation of her faith in the Catholic Church, saying, “I have questions, like why are there so many denominations? Why aren’t they all one? If it really doesn’t matter, why is there more than one? It’s not about hymns or music or a matter of personal taste. It’s about doctrine.” m i n i s t r y

f o c u s

Becoming Catholic: The RCIA The RCIA is a process in Catholic parishes for welcoming inquiring people into the Catholic tradition of the Christian way of life. The basic steps to becoming Catholic are: 1 Inquirer: period of getting to know the Catholic community 2 Catechumen or Candidate: period of learning about the faith 3 Elect: the bishop chooses each person to be a part of the Church and then one enters a period of prayer and reflection 4 Neophyte: period after initiation (baptism, confirmation) where the person deepens their faith To find out more: contact your parish or talk to a priest.

FAITHhelps is the learning companion to FAITH Magazine available on FAITHmag.com

January/February 2004

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Sister Sisters how two siblings became nuns tion to St. Joseph,” she says. Upon entering the order, Sr. Mary Joseph attended Eastern Michigan University, and after graduation, she became a second grade teacher. Sr. Mary Jacinta was homeschooled throughout her youth, with the exception of third and fourth grades, when she attended St. Michael Academy. She is currently attending Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor fulltime and will finish her elementary art teaching degree at EMU. “While I was a postulant, I was in Fatima and became fond of the name Jacinta,” says Sr. Mary Jacinta, explaining how she selected her name. Is it unusual for siblings to enter a religious community? Sr. Mary Joseph says, “We have three sets: Two sisters, who are in their early 20s, are from Denver, Colo. Two others in their 50s are originally from the Dominican order in Nashville, Tenn.” The community of the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist is only six years old. In 1997, four members of the Nashville Dominicans were invited by Cardinal John O’Connor to begin a new foundation in the Archdiocese of New York. Benefactors from Michigan including Tom Monaghan, Domino’s Pizza founder, invited them to Ann Arbor, sanctioned

“When I was in high school, I kept praying while keeping myself open. But I had a really deep desire to become a nun. I can’t describe it. I just knew the feeling,” recalls Sr. Mary Joseph.

Two young siblings are members of the Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist, based in rural Ann Arbor. Sister Mary Joseph, 24, and her sister Sister Mary Jacinta, 20, are both members of the religious community. Born and raised in Ann Arbor, they are popular, and she continues to homethe daughters of Joseph and Helen school their younger siblings. Campbell. They have eight siblings. Two Sr. Mary Joseph attended St. Francis of older brothers are married. The family Assisi Catholic School, after which she attends Christ the King Catholic Church was homeschooled for several years in Ann Arbor. before attending St. Michael Academy. Rachel (Sr. Mary Joseph) was the She graduated from Father Gabriel third child in the family and Elena (now Richard High School in 1997. In August Sr. Mary Jacinta) ranks number five. of that year, she entered the order. “I They say their mother was involved in took the name of Sr. Mary Joseph from homeschooling long before it became my father and also because of my devoBy Jan Rynearson | Photography by Christine Jones

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By freely giving their whole lives to God, the sisters have been given a freedom that the world cannot give. “We follow the First Commandment with our vow of poverty – that God is our only possession,” says Sr. Mary Jacinta. “We abandon everything so we can be completely God’s and He can be our only possession.”

by Bishop Carl F. Mengeling. The order became canonical (approved by the Church) later that year. The sisters are teachers, emphasizing education. Currently, there are 45 members of the community. The order operates four schools, called Spiritus Sanctus Academies, in the Ann Arbor area. They are located at the Via Sacra, Joy Road, Golfside and Plymouth campuses. More than 500 children, K-8, attend. Spiritus Sanctus is the Latin term for Holy Spirit and is used in keeping with the belief that the Holy Spirit guides all evangelical endeavors of the Catholic Church. “We hope to have more than 20 sisters teaching within three years,” explains Sr. Mary Joseph. Music is Sr. Mary Joseph’s forté. She is adept at piano, organ and guitar. “I teach the students and the sisters. I also prepare the children’s choir for school liturgies,” she says. “When I was in the seventh grade I was taught by the Benedictines. I loved them and wanted to be with them and like them,” recalls Sr. Mary Joseph. “When I was in high school, I kept praying while keeping myself open. But I had a really deep desire to become a nun. I can’t describe it. I just knew the feeling.” After she met Mother Assumpta, the superior of the order, and saw the community of sisters, she became very interested. “I didn’t tell anyone except my parents about wanting to enter the convent until about two weeks before I entered. Then, I told everyone,” she shares. Sr. Mary Jacinta shares her own decision to enter religious life. “I always got along with my sister and admired and looked up to her. She was a role model. After she entered the order, I came often to visit and observed how happy she was. I saw by example. I had no intention of becoming a nun. I was

are allowed by the order. Sr. Mary Joseph shares, “One great thing that I love about being a nun is that I have to give everything specifically for Jesus. There’s a lot of community life. We pray, work and eat together.” Sr. Mary Jacinta made her first profession in August 2003, together with the other 11 young women who became postulants during the jubilee year 2000. “Many people today are afraid to make a commitment,” she says. “I just made my vows on Aug. 6, and it is completely, absolutely the most wonderful thing I ever did.” By freely giving their whole lives to God, the sisters have been given a freedom that the world cannot give. “We follow the First Commandment with our vow of poverty – that God is our only possession,” says Sr. Mary Jacinta. “We abandon everything so we can be completely God’s and He can be our only possession.” Sr. Mary Joseph says, “We give Him the gift of ourselves from all that the world holds dear, such as money and power, and we have complete spiritual freedom.”

planning on having kids and writing and illustrating children’s stories.” Over time, she began to desire to enter religious life. “Gradually, when I came to visit, I found I was more excited to see all the sisters than I was to see my own sister,” Sr. Mary Jacinta explains. “During that year, the whole time, I knew I was supposed to be here,” she remembers. “The word postulant means ‘one who asks.’ I felt strongly I was making the right decision.” Since entering the convent, Sr. Mary Jacinta has found that her talent and desire to write children’s stories will be useful. She has already illustrated a book of short sayings for a friend and expects to spend more time illustrating and writing, so as to benem i n i s t r y f o c u s fit her teaching of children. National Vocation Awareness Week Those entering Jan. 11-16, 2004 the order have to The culmination of the Christmas season is celebrated with be between the the feast of the Baptism of the Lord. By celebrating this annual ages of 17 and 35 feast, the Church is renewed and strengthened by God’s blessand have a high ing. National Vocation Awareness Week begins with this feast. school diploma. How do I embrace my life as a vocation, as a call to someone When a woman greater than myself? Resources emphasized during this special enters, she is a week are aimed at answering this question. postulant for a National Vocation Awareness Week provides an year, during opportunity to deepen our baptismal commitment which time she through reflection and action. makes a commitWe are invited to reflect on the mission of Jesus as our ment prior to tak- own vocation, to ponder what it means to be God’s beloved ing her first reliand to know that God’s favor rests on us. gious profession. For more contact the Diocese of Lansing: After she becomes Vocation Services Office: (517) 342-2506 a nun, home visits Seminarian Office: (517) 342-2507 January/February 2004 19 FAITH Magazine Online vocation information: www.DioceseofLansing.org Click Formation

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your marriage matters a new series to help you strengthen your marriage

Online Resource YourMarriageMatters.com The Diocese of Lansing Family Ministry Office provides marriage &

tired of fighting about money? m o n e y

t i p

Money and Marriage: You can’t avoid it as a married couple. It’s the number one reason cited for marital discourse. Sure, it isn’t fun, or exciting, but neither are the fights that come from not talking about it. The vitality and health of every family relies on its foundation. This secular issue of getting-and-spending can either be a rock of that foundation, or it can break it. Every couple needs a financial plan – a philosophy to follow “religiously,” so to speak. Start by discussing money with your spouse: 1 Disclose: No matter how long you’ve been married, share your financial dreams, fears, habits and attitudes with each other. No good family plan works without risk-taking openness. 2 Discuss: Talk about your philosophy of money. Any and every topic on money you can muster should be exhausted. Remember, both of you should be heard. Only then can you agree on a lifetime family financial plan and budget – look for that in coming issues. It’s hard work at first, but it beats arguing! Quote: And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father, through Him. (Col 3:17) – John Morris, diocesan FOCCUS couple trainer

People say communication is so important for marriage, but I say, ‘Why dredge stuff up?’ c o n n e c t i n g

is your marriage a priority? t i m e

m a t t e r s :

p a r t

Setting priorities is fundamental. We have all said, “If only we had an extra two hours in our day, we would have time to spend with each other and our marriage would be better!” If we can’t manage the 24 hours in the day that God has given us, why would we want another two hours? We wouldn’t need more hours in the day if we learned how to set priorities. Building a marriage relationship – spending time together focusing on your spouse – must take precedence over other needs that call for our attention. How do you spend your time? See if your marriage is a priority:

Time Tip: Together, write out how much time you spend: 1 with the kids 2 at work 3 driving 4 chores 5 watching TV 6 etc. Compare that with the time you spend with each other. Do you give your spouse enough time? If you don’t, do something about it. Other areas in your life depend on the strength of your relationship. If your marriage is most important, make a change. – Tom and JoAnn Fogle, members of the diocesan Family Ministry Committee

I often give one-day retreats to married couples on the themes of spirituality and communication. They often complain they’re too tired, too busy and too distracted to communicate. Or they argue too much, so they would just rather avoid it. But communication in a marriage is like oil to a car – smooth running with it, disaster without it. If humans came with a manual, the first few chapters after spirituality would be on communication. And communication fuels the fire of spousal friendship. It’s really that important. Start where you’re at and move forward. If it seems like a lot, slowly build up to it. Ideas to jump-start your communication: Tip 1: Talk to each other on a daily basis for 20 minutes.

Choose a time – preferably when you’re not asleep. Stop what you’re doing – turn the TV off and don’t answer the phone – and just catch up on the day. Show concern and respect for your spouse. It will help your relationship immensely! Tip 2: Have a weekly couple sharing time for an hour. Bring up concerns and issues that need your attention, such as the kids, finances, household chores, work, etc. Be proactive. – Tony Sperendi

Kindness Tip: Does your spouse normally do the cleaning? Try cleaning up after a meal, putting the dishes in the dishwasher and

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marriage resources: World Marriage Day: Feb. 8 World Marriage Encounter Resources available on: www.wwme.org Conference: Jan. 31 “To follow Christ: The Vocation to Marriage and Family” at St. Francis Hall, Franciscan Monastery, Washington, D.C. For info: (301) 853-4546.

parenting: ways to bring your kids back to the Church

rriage & family resources. Call (517) 342-2471 or (517) 342-2458 for more

how can busy parents keep the romance alive? r o m a n c e

i n t i m a c y

True intimacy: A key factor that contributes to the failure of so many marriages today is the couple’s inability to sustain true intimacy. The problem is blamed on everything from shifting priorities to shifting waistlines. There are no simple answers. It requires sacrifice, time, energy, dedication and a lot of imagination. Or, put another way, it’s 10% physical and 90% mental. Parents and Romance: Parenting diminishes two important ingredients for intimacy: time and energy. Couples that prefer romantic spontaneity must learn to adapt. You must seriously commit to time alone together. Take advantage of every moment. Surprise dates may not work out with busy conflicting schedules. Schedule routine nights out. Schedule a “date” where you stay in after the kids are put to bed. Let the family know not to disturb you unless there is a true emergency. Try lighting some candles or taking a bath together. Don’t be defeated by an exhausted spouse, setbacks or lost opportunities. Make up for it next time. Finally, don’t be afraid to flirt in front of the kids. the best thing you do for them is become a role model of a healthy, affectionate marriage. Whenever we kiss and hear the familiar “Gross!” – we know we’re making a good impression. Faith and love: Catholic married couples have an added advantage. In this sacrament, romance becomes a holy word and deed modeled after Christ’s love for His Church. This realization puts us on a path that continues to open our minds and hearts to new ways of seeing each other and our marriage through all the changes we face. Next issue: 3 tips to liven up your marriage – Rick & Diane Peiffer, members of the diocesan Family Ministry Committee

p r a y e r

Make of me, God, what you can use as with a pen or chisel tools. Use the mind that I have honed, use all my skills whose strength you’ve loaned. Use my ears to hear and tell, use my mouth, too, for speaking well, the Word of God, sharp and alive; use all my talents, grit and strive.

m o m e n t

Above all else, wrap around me Love, that’s fit to be like hand in glove. I am here, your Word to bear, I am here to serve and care. Make me a vessel without leak, to carry water to the weak. Make me a staff to lean upon, to carry lightened burdens on. – Patricia Nischan, consultant to the diocesan Family Ministry Committee

t h e

C. Jones

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cmcgreal@faithmag.com

t is not uncommon to find parents worrying about a child who has strayed from the Church. Sons and daughters failing to recognize the importance of God in their lives may be a major source of anxiety for parents. When parents desire the greatest good for their children, namely eternal salvation, they naturally ask, “What can we do to bring our child back to the Church?” Reflecting on Scripture may provide insight into this matter. The Book of Revelation, with its extraordinary visions and descriptions of terror, often evokes fear, especially when we read of the judgment of the unfaithful. Among those who pondered these verses was the artist Holman Hunt. His painting, The Light of the World, was based on Revelation 3:21, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.” The painting shows Jesus standing in a dark orchard, the only light coming from His lantern. He is knocking on a door overgrown with vines and weeds. The door evidently has been shut for a long time. Hunt intentionally did not paint a handle on the door saying that the door to the human heart can be opened only from the inside. More than 150 years after its creation, The Light of the World can help us sort out some of our concerns and worries. Keep in mind that God is gentle. It is difficult when a loved one isn’t opening the door to Christ, but you can’t force open the door to another person’s heart. Trust God to continue calling to your loved one. This isn’t a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. God yearns for the door to be opened. Remember how the shepherd sought out the lost sheep, rejoicing when it was found! (Luke 15:3-5) Accept God’s timing. As you pray for your loved one remember that no amount of effort will “produce” a result. As Jesus told His disciples, “Wait for the gift my Father promised.” (Acts 1:4-6) In today’s world, we are used to instant messaging, fast food and immediate gratification, but God may call us to wait in stillness. Pour out all your own fears to God. As the Psalmist said, “All my longings lie open before you, O Lord; my sighing is not hidden from you.” (Ps 38:9) Psychologists describe two styles of reacting to stress – problem-focused coping and emotion-focused coping. Sometimes, it is best to focus on a problem because direct action is needed. Worrying about the spiritual journey of a loved one, however, is more likely to involve emotion-focused coping, reviewing your own feelings toward the situation. Share your emotions with Christ and be renewed in the Eucharist. When you hear His voice, open your own heart and let His peace cast out all fears. – Dr. Cathleen McGreal is a professor of psychology at Michigan State University and a certified spiritual director.

her and emptying it, too. Do they sparkle and shine to reflect your smile?

– Dcn. Endre Doran

January/February 2004

FAITH Magazine

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be honest: do you live lif realizing that you need G Discover the power of pr s p i r i t u a l

There are many people who say they believe in God, but love is a different story. Some people turn to God only in dire necessity. You may have heard of the atheist who was walking through the woods. Unfortunately for him, he ran into a bear. He ran as fast as he could, but it was obvious that the bear was going to catch up. The man decided to pray, “Dear God, help me!” And suddenly, just as the bear was about to pounce on him, the bear stopped. Everything went black, and then he heard the Lord say to him, “Yes my son? I thought you did not believe in me?” The man was surprised but then in pride realized the folly of his prayer, and said, “You are right, I don’t. You are just a figment of my imagination.” “Very well, said the Lord.” And then the blackness gave way and the man was back looking at the bear. The bear was about to pounce, when the bear stopped. The man could not believe his eyes. The bear got off its front paws, and looking up made the sign of the cross, “Blessed be God for these thy gifts which I am about to receive … ” – Fr. Bill Ashbaugh

f i t n e s s

All joking aside, the story does illustrate a stubborn pride in all of us that paints an illusion that we somehow do not need God. Other concerns become more important. Pleasures and attractions seek our time and interest. A loving relationship with God becomes a passing thought. Prayer is almost nonexistent. When there is no love, there is no prayer. When there is little love, perhaps we pray like the man running from the bear. It is prayer in desperation. We pray because of a great need that is beyond ourselves. Only God can help, and He does. But is that love? It is mostly selfish on our part. After the problem goes away, so does our prayer time. Our spiritual fitness this month is to grow in love by discovering a different kind of prayer. This prayer is not just petition or supplication. It is the prayer of praise. It often follows from realizing that God has answered a prayer of petition. The Apostles learned to pray this way after they followed Jesus to Calvary and saw Him risen in glory. It was then that the supreme love of God was revealed for those who had the eyes of faith to see. The risen Lord came to them and filled them with the Holy Spirit. For those who believed, Jesus’ love took hold of their lives. As St. Paul said, “The love of God has been poured out in our hearts.” (Rom 5:5) The Holy Spirit gives a deep awareness of what Jesus has done for us. No wonder the great saints recommend meditating on the passion of Jesus, for it is there that we can experience the love of God for us. We love God because God has loved us first (see 1 John). What an incredible, indescribable joy overtakes those who are in love with God. There is a sharing, a communion with God. God is loving them and is in them. A person responds to this love by a free act of the will – to love God in return with one’s whole heart, soul, mind and strength. Nothing can compare to the love of God, but we want to respond in kind. The only fitting response that in any way resembles how God loves us is for us to offer our whole selves back to

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B l a c k

M i n i s t r y

Martin Luther King, Jr. Blood of the Martyrs Blood Drive The Diocese of Lansing Office of Black Catholic Ministry and the American Red Cross is sponsoring the fourth annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Blood of the Martyrs Blood Drive Jan. 14-20. C. Jones

ve life ed God? of praising God

C a t h o l i c

God. By doing so, we keep the First Commandment. One dimension of loving God is to express it through praise. Praise engages one’s whole being and acknowledges a relationship of love with another. Jesus was constantly giving thanks and praise to God His Father when He prayed. He taught His disciples to praise God by praying, “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be thy name!” When they put the five loaves and two fish in His hands, He offered thanks and praise to God. He did so when the “merest children” were following and believing in Him. He did so at the Last Supper when He took the gifts of bread and wine in His hands and offered thanks. Even though He was betrayed, He gave thanks to His Father for His disciples. “They are your gift to me,” He said. (John 17:24) Offering praise flows directly out of our love for God. When we praise people, we think well of them. We have a gratitude and appreciation for them. All the more with God! God has given us everything! This month, we are to grow in the practice of praising God for the blessings in our lives. It is one of the many ways we can keep spiritually fit by keeping the First Commandment.

Wednesday, Jan. 14 Lansing: American Red Cross Donor Room, 7 a.m.-6:45 p.m. Flint: American Red Cross Donor Room, 12-5:45 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15 Lansing: American Red Cross Donor Room,12-5:45 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16 Jackson: Queen of the Miraculous Medal Parish, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. East Lansing: MSU-Erickson Hall, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Flint: American Red Cross Donor Room, 9 a.m.-2:45 p.m. Howell: St. Joseph Mercy Livingston Hospital, 10 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Jackson: St. Mary Parish, 12-5:45 p.m. Lansing: American Red Cross Donor Room, 9 a.m.-2:45 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17 Brighton: St. Mary Magdalen Parish,10 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Lansing: American Red Cross Donor Room, 8 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18 Ann Arbor: St. Thomas the Apostle

Parish, 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Flint: Christ the King Parish, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19 Adrian: St. Mary Parish, 11 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Brooklyn: Heart O’ the Lakes United Church, 1 p.m.-6:45 p.m. Flint: American Red Cross Donor Room, 12 p.m.-5:45 p.m. Flint: University of Michigan-Flint, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Jackson: First Presbyterian Church, 11 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Ann Arbor: Peace Lutheran Church, 2 p.m.-8 p.m. Lansing: American Red Cross Donor Room, 12 p.m.-5:45 p.m. Ypsilanti: Most Holy Trinity Parish, 1 p.m.-8 p.m. Lansing: Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, 1 p.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20 Ann Arbor: St. Patrick Catholic Church, 3 p.m.-9 p.m. Ann Arbor: U of M Hospital Health Care, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Lansing: American Red Cross Donor Room, 12 p.m.-5:45 p.m. jan/feb readings

4 spiritual exercises to help us praise God 1. Learn a song by heart that praises God. Singing engages our whole beings. When we sing, we pray twice, said St. Augustine. There are many great songs of praise in any Catholic or Christian bookstore. You can also check out FAITH Magazine’s Web site for some free songs you can download. 2. Think of a time in your life when someone praised you. How did you feel? Recognize this praise as coming from God through others. God loves you far more than even your closest relatives, companions and friends. When you become aware of this love for yourself, let your heart freely offer love back to God. How would you compliment and praise Jesus? God the Son has died for you. How would you praise the Father, Son and Spirit? Try it. Our lives have countless blessings in them. Even the trials – and perhaps especially the trials and sufferings – are hidden blessings. Learn to praise God for all things! Our love for God will be secure. 3. If you are feeling awkward spontaneously praising God, check out the following Scriptures which are prayers of praise and make them your own. Exod 15:1-21; Deut 3 (especially verses 51-90); Many psalms – here are just a few: Pss 65, 66, 67, 68, 117, 135, 136, 148; Luke 1:46-55; Luke 1:6779; Rev 5:9-14; Rev 15:3-4; Rev 19:1-8. 4. Many people have written prayers of praise to God. Write your own using this framework as a guide: I praise you God who in your goodness has given me life. Blessed be God forever. Put in your own words of praise where the italics are. See if you can formulate 5 to 10 stanzas. Just doing it will increase your love for God.

Thursday, Jan. 1 The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God Num 6:22-27 Ps 67:2-2, 5-6, 8 Gal 4:4-7 Luke 2:16-21

1 Cor 12:12-30 or 12:12-14, 27 Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21 Sunday, Feb. 1 Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time Jer 1:4-5, 17-19 Ps 71:1-6, 15, 17 1 Cor 12:31 - 13:13 or 13:4-13 Luke 4:21-30

Sunday, Jan. 4 The Epiphany of the Lord Is 60:1-6 Ps 72:2, 7-8,10-13 Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6 Matt 2:1-12

Sunday, Feb. 8 Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time Is 6:1-2a, 3-8 Ps 138:1-5, 7-8 1 Cor 15:1-11 or 15:3-8, 11 Luke 5:1-11

Sunday, Jan. 11 The Baptism of the Lord Is 42:1-4, 6-7 Ps 29:1-4,9-10 Acts 10:34-38 Luke 3:15-16, 21-22 or, in Year C: Is 40:1-5, 9-11 Ps 104:1b-4, 24-25, 27-30 Titus 2:11-14; 3:4-7 Luke 3:15-16, 21-22

Sunday, Feb. 15 Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Jer 17:5-8 Ps 1:1-4, 6 1 Cor 15:12, 16-20 Luke 6:17, 20-26

Sunday, Jan. 18 Second Sunday in Ordinary Time Isaiah 62: 1-5 Ps 96: 1-3, 7-10 1 Cor 12: 4-11 John 2: 1-11 Sunday, Jan. 25 Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Neh 8:2-4a, 5-6, 8-10 Ps 19:8-10, 15

Wednesday, Feb. 25 Ash Wednesday Joel 2:12-18 Ps 51:3-6a, 12-14, 17 2 Cor 5:20-6:2 Matt 6:1-6, 16-18 Sunday, Feb. 29 First Sunday of Lent Deut 26:4-10 Ps 91:1-2, 10-15 Romans 10:8-13 Luke 4:1-13

January/February 2004

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c u l t u r e

sacred space With a little planning, you can create a place for prayer inside (or outside) your home

ver watch those home improvement shows on TV – the ones where a team of professionals takes a spare room and turns it into a home office or a mini movie theater? If you have some extra space in your home, here’s another, more spiritual way to make use of it. Convert it into a prayer nook, a space where you can talk with God without being disturbed or distracted by the outside world.

Big nook or small nook? Don’t have a whole room you can devote to this purpose? Don’t worry. A prayer nook doesn’t have to be in a big space. But it should be a dedicated space – one with no other function than to bring you closer to the Creator. If you’re living in tight quarters, consider these possibilities: a walk-in closet (or half of one), an under-the-staircase space or a recessed area formed by a dormer. Basements and attics may also yield some unused areas. Prayer nooks can be developed outside the house, too – in a glassed-in

porch, for example, or a garden shed. Anywhere you can claim a little privacy for yourself will work.

Fitting furniture After you’ve selected the space you’re going to convert, the next step is to furnish and decorate it appropriately. A chair and/or kneeler are essential to establishing a meditative mood. Handy with woodworking tools? You can find plans and kits for kneelers (or purchase assembled pieces) at www.rosaryshop.com. Another essential item for your nook is a small table or bookshelf to hold a Bible, Butler’s “Lives of the Saints,” or other inspirational writings. A table can serve as a place on which statues and sacred art are displayed and lit by candles. You might also consider draping the table with fabric in the color that reflects the liturgical season. During the seasons of ordinary time, the recommended color is green. For Lent and Advent, it’s violet. For the Paschal Triduum, Easter and Christmas, it’s white or gold. And red is used to mark feast days and holy days.

Why is it important to have a special place to pray? In his book “Prayer: The Great Conversation,” author Peter Kreeft notes that the Church has solved half of the problem of where we should pray “by setting aside special places for public worship every Sunday. But we have to invent our own private churches, too, for private prayer.” Otherwise, he cautions, “‘Praying anywhere’ can easily become ‘praying nowhere,’ just as ‘praying anytime’ can easily become ‘praying at no time.’” Kreeft also has some advice about when you should pray. “Any time will do, but it should be a definite, regular time – the same time each day. For many people, the only two times like that are late at night or early in the morning.” And he advocates trying both. “Even if you pray early in the morning, you should take at least a few minutes at night, too – to review the day and thank God for all of it and commit it to his hands.” By Patricia Majher | Photography by Philip Shippert

Sights, smells, and sounds If you choose to create a prayer nook, be proud of it. On the wall outside, affix a holy water font. And, inside, display a simple cross or crucifix to inform anyone who passes by or enters that this is special space given over to God. Your can also engage your sense of smell in a prayer nook. To create the proper mood, burn incense or pick fragrant flowers and arrange them in a bouquet. Remember how you used to pick May flowers to honor Mary? Here’s an opportunity to revive that tradition. Sacred music also has a place here. A small cassette or CD player is all you need to immerse yourself in an atmosphere of peace and piety. Musical selections might include evocative instrumentals, choral music or even the works of your favorite Christian performers.

For one, for all A nook is a place where you can isolate yourself in quiet contemplation. But, you don’t have to shut your friends and family out of it. If the space is big enough, use it as a gathering place to recite the rosary, to pray for special intentions or to celebrate the holidays and holy days of the Church together. Welcome any and all who are interested into this sacred space you have created. And have your parish priest bless it, for good measure.

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b i s h o p ’ s

r e p o r t

wo years ago, revelations about sexual abuse of children by some in the Church horrified us all. With deep sorrow, I repeat to victims and their families: I am sorry this has happened to you. It should never have happened, and I apologize. Our diocese remains committed to caring for victims and preventing future abuse. In June 2002, I joined the bishops of the United States and wholeheartedly voted for the Charter for the Protection of Children. (The charter can be read on www.usccbcharter.org.) The charter holds every diocese accountable for addressing the crisis and implementing steps to prevent it from happening again. The charter holds dioceses accountable by requiring an audit process to determine compliance with the charter. The Diocese of Lansing’s audit was conducted June 30-July 24, 2003. The National Review Board sent two former FBI agents from the Gavin Group to conduct the independent audit. I am pleased to announce that the Diocese of Lansing is in full compliance. Below is a summary of the report. Secondly, I’m proud of an important and bold new phase underway – the Protecting God’s Children program. (You can learn more on page 26.) As we meet this challenge together, it is important to remember that all things are possible when we do God’s work. Our diocese is committed to making our parishes and schools safer for children. With divine healing and guidance, we are always a people of hope. In the love of Christ,

+Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling Bishop of Lansing

Summary of Report: Diocese of Lansing Compliance with the Provisions of the Charter for the Protection of Children from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Office of Child and Youth Protection: The Diocese of Lansing is found to be compliant with the provisions of the charter as measured by the process described in Chapter 2.

• • • •

C. Jones

update – audit concludes: Diocese of Lansing compliant with charter to protect children

“To promote healing and reconciliation” Diocesan outreach program Healing retreats for victims Bishop or bishop’s designees have met with victims Establishment of a diocesan review board consisting of one

priest and seven respected members of the lay community • Published procedure for making a complaint • There have been no confidentiality agreements entered into by the diocese since June 2002 unless requested by the victims

• • • • • •

“To guarantee effective response to allegations of abuse of a minor” Diocese established effective liaison with local civil authorities Procedure to advise victims of their right to report allegations to civil authorities Diocese has removed three members of the clergy from active ministry in accordance with the charter Publicized a code of conduct for priests and deacons Communication policy to be open and transparent on issues regarding sexual abuse of children Open dialogue with the media, civil authorities and members of the congregation

“To ensure accountability of procedures” • Participation in the research study regarding the “nature and scope” of the problem of sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy “To protect the faithful in the future” • Implementing the VIRTUS safe environment program • Publicizing standards of conduct for all Church workers who have contact with children • Diocese has a long standing practice of background checks for personnel • No priest or deacon with a credible allegation of sexual abuse of a child was transferred to a ministerial assignment in another diocese • In the cases of the three priests who transferred to other dioceses for residence, the bishop has made notifications to those bishops, confidentially providing all information relating to allegations of sexual abuse • Coordination with religious orders in regard to accused religious order clergy • Screening and evaluative techniques in the selection of candidates for ordination As of Dec. 1, 2003, the following recommendations have been addressed: • That the review board establish formal procedures by which they will document their meetings, activities and actions • That the review board consider inviting the diocesan Promoter of Justice (from the diocesan Tribunal) to participate • That the pastors be instructed to make the sexual misconduct policy brochure more readily available by placing it in a public place Commendations: • Two-day “Healing Retreats” designed for victims of sexual abuse to attain spiritual healing • Open and transparent communications with media, the civil authorities and the congregation on issues relating to the sexual abuse of minors To read the full text of the report, log onto FAITHmag.com.

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New sexual abuse prevention underway in the Diocese of Lansing s p e c i a l

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environments and how to report suspicious activity. FAITH: How many people are trained and how long is it taking? Ellis: 4,476 people have gone through

a PGC session as of Nov. 20, 2003. Our first session was held Aug. 13 at Lansing Catholic Central High School. This session was for clergy, deacons, principals, administrators, pastoral coordinators and diocesan central service staff. We began offering sessions in the regions of the diocese by the end of August. We have offered over 60 sessions thus far in the diocese. FAITH: Continued online training is required. Why is this important? Ellis: Participants will not retain all of

In past updates, Bishop Mengeling has stated, “No one that we know of who has ever abused a child is actively working in the diocese.” That is still true. Efforts in the Diocese of Lansing to find, remove and hold accountable those in the Church who have sexually abused children continues to be a major priority. Now, an equally important and far-reaching new phase is underway – preventing future abuse. FAITH Magazine interviewed Sally Ellis, coordinator of the Protecting God’s Children (PGC) program for the Diocese of Lansing. The program instructs all Church employees and volunteers on how to identify and report suspicious behavior and create safer environments for children. The goal is to prevent sexual abuse of children from ever occurring in our parishes or schools. FAITH: How does the PGC (Protecting God’s Children) program prevent abuse? Ellis: It’s all about creating a safe environment for children,

but I believe the end result is a safe environment for all of us. Knowledge is power. The program helps people identify behavior patterns of an abused child and a perpetrator. The diocese requires all employees and volunteers, who work directly with minors, to attend a three-hour session. The first goal is to make them aware that abuse exists and show them the types of individual, family and community-wide harm it creates. Secondly, we tell them how to create safer

As of Nov. 20, 2003, 4,858 Diocese of Lansing parish and school employees and volunteers have entered a training program called VIRTUS to identify suspicious behavior and create safer environments for children. The goal is to increase awareness and create an environment where abuse will never again occur.

the information provided in the awareness session, like the five steps for preventing child sexual abuse or the warning signs of an offender. That is why a continuing education portion is required – a follow-up on the threehour session. It’s a reinforcement of the material presented at a session. The PGC session provides a certain amount of information to change our attitudes surrounding the issue of sexual abuse. This is good, but our aim is to change behavior. One of the ways we accomplish this is to require continuing online education. FAITH: What can parents do to help prevent child sexual abuse? Ellis: Be aware of your child’s behavior,

look for warning signs, know who your child is with, know where your child is, make sure your child is in a safe environment, and communicate. This is so important. Every child should be made to feel comfortable enough to let their parents know about any uncomfortable situation. Perpetrators love to tell children, “Don’t tell anyone,” and to make threats. Together, parents and children can overcome threats through communication. Parents need to talk to and listen to their children. Tell them how much they are loved and how special they are. Let them know that you, as their parent, are open to hear whatever it is they have to say – without judgment or fear of recrimination.

VIRTUS is the brand name of the best practices training program of the National Catholic Risk Retention Group, Inc. The Diocese of Lansing is using the VIRTUS program “Protecting God’s Children (PGC)” in its effort to prevent future sexual abuse of children by someone from the Church. Sally Ellis, VIRTUS/PGC coordinator, contributed to this article. To find out more log onto www.virtusonline.org

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help prevent child sexual abuse your must-know guide s p e c i a l

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The Diocese of Lansing has new rules to make schools and parishes safer for children Controlling Access to Children: It is impossible to guarantee that child abuse will never again occur. However, making every reasonable effort to prohibit child molesters from being near our children is crucial. Bishop Carl Mengeling stated earlier, “No one that we know of who has ever abused a child is actively working in the diocese.” If such a person is discovered, they are not to be transferred to another parish or school, they are to be turned over to the proper authorities. The PGC program instructs parish and school officials to be thorough about who is allowed to work with children. Both background checks and the PGC program tell would-be perpetrators that this diocese is diligent about preventing future child abuse. What can parents teach their children about abuse? Know what’s going on in the life of your child and pay attention to subtle signs of a problem. Communication is key – talk to, listen to and observe your children. Parents can also: 1 discuss with their child where their private parts are and why not all adults or children should see or touch them. 2 talk to children often about protecting themselves. 3 teach children about appropriate and inappropriate touch. 4 teach children what to do if someone makes them uncomfortable.

Monitoring all programs: Predators seek ways to spend time alone with children. If they know someone is watching them, they have more trouble finding opportunities to abuse without getting caught. Parishes and schools in the diocese are asked to develop rules so children are monitored. 9 ways parishes and schools are told to monitor programs: 1 Identify and monitor secluded areas. For example, staff should check bathrooms before children enter alone. 2 Lock empty rooms. 3 Do not allow children to enter staff-only areas. 4 Meetings with children are to occur only where other adults can have access. 5 Parish/school supervisors should have open access to all activities. 6 Parents should have access to all programs. 7 New programs should be approved by the pastor/pastoral coordinator, principal and/or parish pastoral council. 8 Encourage parents to be involved in activities. 9 There should be an adequate number of adults involved in programs.

When should you speak up and communicate a concern? You should voice a concern whenever you are uncomfortable with a situation. Communicating a concern is not the same thing as accusing someone. It means confronting or telling someone when you are uncomfortable with a situation or discussing suspected abuse with a supervisor or state official. It means paying attention to your own feelings and not waiting until it is too late. Call the Family Independence Agency to make a determination: (800) 942-4357. If you suspect a child is being abused by someone in the Church, also call (517) 342-2450. 10 warning signs of a child molester Knowing these signs helps identify abuse before it occurs. It should not be up to a child to report an incident. Child molesters typically: 1 discourage other adults from participating in or monitoring their activity with minors. 2 always want to be alone with children. 3 are more excited to be with children than adults. 4 give gifts to children, often without permission. 5 go overboard with touching. 6 always want to wrestle or tickle. 7 think a parent’s or school’s rules do not apply to them. 8 allow children to engage in activities their parents would not allow. 9 use bad language or tell dirty jokes to children. 10show children pornography.

A copy of the Diocese of Lansing Sexual Misconduct Policy can be obtained by calling (517) 342-2475.

4 things you can do to help prevent child sexual abuse 1 Be aware of changes in a child’s behavior. 2 Look for warning signs. 3 Parents should know where and with whom their child is, and make sure the child is in a safe environment. 4 Communicate a concern right away. 4 biggest MYTHS about child sexual abuse: 1 Strangers are responsible for most child sexual abuse. 2 Most abusers are homosexual. 3 Children usually lie about child sexual abuse. 4 Priests abuse children because of celibacy vows.

Sally Ellis is the coordinator of the VIRTUS/Protecting God’s Children program for the Diocese of Lansing. She is responsible for: • scheduling PGC sessions throughout our diocese. • producing reports and tracking participation. • coordinating 23 diocesan facilitators of PGC sessions. Sally Ellis can be reached at (517) 342-2551 or e-mail: sellis@dioceseoflansing.org

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things to do The annual Mass and brunch with the bishop will take place Sunday, Jan. 25. All young adults are invited to noon Mass at St. Mary Cathedral, followed by brunch with Bishop Mengeling in the parish hall. The cost is $10 per person. Call the Office of Young Adult Ministry at (517) 342-2494 to sign up. St. John the Evangelist Parish, Davison, will host the Share Life Festival Beach Party on Jan. 25. The program will be held in the family center from 12-4 p.m. It is designed to equip people of all ages to “live in faith everyday.” Wear your favorite summer gear. For more information, call Elaine at (810) 658-4776 ext. 272. Blessed Sacrament Parish, Burton, is hosting a Choral Workshop and Concert on Saturday, Jan. 31. All choirs are welcome to the choral workshop with Prof. Gerald Blanchard from 9 a.m.-noon. There will also be 2 p.m. concert at the church with refreshments to follow. For more information, please call (810) 742-3151. Religious education for deaf and hard of hearing students will be held at DeSales Center, Brooklyn. Led by Fr. Mike Depcik, the series of one-day programs continues on Saturday, Jan. 31. The program will focus on learning Catholic basics and will include a social time, lunch and snacks. Transportation will be arranged. To register, contact Rose Smith at (517) 342-3532.

The annual Liturgy and Music Conference will take place at St. John Catholic Church, Howell, on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. “Pray Unceasingly: The Liturgy of the Hours” will be presented by Fr. Columba Kelly, OSB, from St. Meinrad Archabbey, and 10 workshops will form and inform all liturgical ministers. Call (517) 3422480 for more information. A Day of Reflection for adults with sight impairments will be held at the Diocesan Center, Lansing, on Wednesday, Feb. 18, from 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Lunch will be provided following 12 p.m. Mass at St. Mary Cathedral. The cost is $10. To register, call JoAnn Davis at (517) 342-2497. World Marriage Encounter’s celebration of World Marriage Day will be Saturday, Feb. 21. Following 5 p.m. Mass celebrated by the bishop at St. Mary Cathedral, Lansing, the dinner-dance will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Lansing Radisson Hotel. The Mass is open to all. Pre-registration is required for the dinnerdance. Contact Dennis and Julie at (517) 626-2303 or e-mail dstrahle@ia4u.net. Registrations are due by Feb. 9. The cost is $55 per couple. Contact the hotel directly for special room rates. The annual St. John Student Parish DinnerDance fundraiser will take place at the MSU Kellogg Center Saturday, Feb. 21. The evening includes a silent auction and raffle. For tickets, please call (517) 3379778. All are welcome. The second annual Catholic

Bioethics Seminar will be held Saturday, Feb. 28, at St. Mary Cathedral and parish hall, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. There will be Mass, meals, and several presentations. To register by Feb. 13 for a reduced rate, call (517) 342-2587. Christ Encounter will be held at Holy Spirit Parish, Hamburg, on Saturday, Feb. 28, from 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Anyone confirmation age or older is welcome to partici-

pate in the weekend, focused on fostering a closer relationship with Jesus. Mass and meals are included. For registration information, please call (810) 231-9199 ext. 305. Hourly worshipers are needed at Holy Spirit Oratory, the perpetual adoration chapel located at 3815 S. Cedar, Lansing. To volunteer, please call Sue Ann at (517) 669-3585.

on Thursday, Jan. 22. Following 6 p.m. Mass, there will be a dinner and talk by Fr. Joe Krupp. The cost is $10. Make reservations by calling (517) 524-7578.

The logo above is a new advertising initiative for adult education in parishes of our diocese. CAFE (Catholic Adult Formation and Education) is being used by parishes to publicize program offerings. Each month you will find a number of Catholic Adult Formation and Education opportunities in this space For more: Contact Peter Ries, Diocesan Director of Religious Education at (517) 342-2486 or e-mail pries@dioceseoflansing.org.

January & February Café Events Brooklyn: Adult education classes will be held at St. Joseph Shrine on Sundays, Jan. 11-Feb. 29 (except Feb. 22), at 9 a.m. Contact Diane Dover at (517) 467-2106 for more. Jackson: A presentation titled “Sowers of God’s Peace” will take place at St. John the Evangelist Parish,

Concord: St. Catherine Labouré Parish, will host a Day of Reflection on Saturday, Jan. 31, from 2-4 p.m. The presenter will be Fr. Larry Delaney, the director of St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt. Mass will be celebrated at 5 p.m., followed by a potluck dinner. Call (517) 5247578 for more information. Lansing: Praying with Images of God will be presented in the library of St. Gerard Parish, on Wednesdays, Jan. 7, 14, 21 and Feb. 4, 18, 25, from 1:15-2:30 p.m. The meetings will be facilitated by Sharan Egan, DRE, and will explore prayer through discussion, music, art and other experiences. Mt Morris: Alex Jones will tell his conversion story at St. Mary Church on Friday, Feb. 20, from 7-8:30 p.m. A reception will follow. Call Pamela Iaquinto at (810) 686-3948 for more information.

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Gabriel Richard principal tragically killed in auto accident

Bishop Mengeling establishes committee for Lansing area Catholic schools

Joseph Peter Maierle, principal of Gabriel Richard High School, Ann Arbor, died Thursday, Nov. 20, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident. Maierle, 48, was pronounced dead at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Ann Arbor. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, and two sons. A veteran educator, Maierle spent 13 years at St. Francis of Assisi School, Ann Arbor, where he was a teacher, coach, athletic director and assistant principal. He was also actively engaged in attending students’ extracurricular activities, including drama, band and athletic events. He became principal of Gabriel Richard in July 2002 and oversaw its recent move into new facilities. On the day of the accident, high school staff and students attended a morning Mass honoring Maierle’s life, and a prayer service was offered at Christ the King Parish, Ann Arbor. A second all-school Mass took place on Friday, Nov. 21. On the same day, a memorial Mass was celebrated for Maierle at St. Francis School. Visitation and rosary were held at the Gabriel Richard High School on Sunday, Nov. 23, and the funeral liturgy was held at the high school the following morning. – Anne Seebaldt (The Catholic Times)

In February 2003, in response to the request of area pastors, Bishop Carl F. Mengeling established a “Blue Ribbon Committee” for the advancement of Catholic schools in the greater Lansing area. “Its charge was the development of a strategic plan to promote accessible, available and affordable Catholic school education,” the bishop wrote in a recently released letter. The bishop recently named a ‘transition team’ to establish a Lansing Area Catholic Education System and has wholeheartedly accepted the following recommendations, presented by the Blue Ribbon Committee: A transition team will begin: • to establish a system-wide tuition that considers families with multiple students in Catholic schools K-12 and/or extraordinary circumstances for the 2004-05 academic year. • to establish a system-wide salary scale for teachers for the 2004-05 academic year. • to establish a commission of all area pastors and parish/school representation and provide an implementation schedule for the commission. The commission, in consultation with the diocesan superintendent of schools, will: • develop a multi-year marketing strategy to • encourage more families to choose Catholic schools • retain current families enrolled in Catholic schools; • expand the system to include all Catholic schools in the Lansing region (comprising Ingham, Eaton and Clinton Counties) by March 31, 2004; • establish a development plan to include parishes, the Greater Lansing Catholic Education Foundation and Lansing Catholic Central High School; • explore the establishment of a common middle school with an enhanced curriculum; and, • institute uniform accounting of revenues and expenditures. The letter noted that there will be no reconfiguration of school sites for the 2004-05 academic year. “Together we can confront and resolve the challenges to Catholic schools,” the bishop wrote. “Our solidarity and collaboration in this process will be for the benefit of our families, students, teachers and parishes. Do not be afraid!”

Cardinal Francis George and the bishops of Illinois recently presented a papal award to Doug Delaney, formerly of Lansing. A long-time member of Resurrection Parish and 1970 graduate of Msgr. Gabriels High School, Delaney worked for the Diocese of Lansing and the Michigan Catholic Conference before serving as the executive director of the Catholic Conferences of Colorado and Illinois. He has represented the Catholic bishops on issues of pro-life education and social justice. His brother, Fr. Larry Delaney, is the director of St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt. The award, the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, is the highest honor a lay person can receive for outstanding service to the Church.

Snapshot: Newly commissioned ecclesial lay ministers pictured in front of Bishop Carl F. Mengeling and Fr. George Michalek during the Nov. 15 Mass and Rite of Commissioning: (from left) Brian S. Epkey, Susan Furda, Raphaelle A. Graziadei, Marcia A. Strausbaugh, Virginia A. Mikola and D. David Mangan. Dorothy Switalski/Montrose Good Shepherd

Former Lansing resident receives papal honor

January/February 2003

FAITH Magazine

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FAITHtalks to the cast: stars of The Lord of the Rings discuss the movie’s message: good vs. evil

New Line Productions, Inc.

film version of The Return of the King, as we are once again transported to J.R.R. Tolkien’s mythical land of Middle-Earth, around 5,000 years before Christ. In The Fellowship of the Ring, a group of nine companions set out on a perilous quest – to destroy the One Ring, a source of great power and evil created by the dark lord, Sauron. Their journey continued in The Two Towers, as Frodo the hobbit carried the ring closer to Mount Doom, the only place where it can be unmade. The third installment of the trilogy begins with a flashback, in which we discover how a hobbit-like person named Sméagol long ago found the One Ring. We watch as Sméagol, consumed by lust for the ring, gradually transforms into the grotesque creature named Gollum. Gollum isn’t the only character affected by the ring. Frodo, the ringbearer, becomes weaker as his journey progresses. He begins to forget his home, his ability to see right from wrong and his very identity. “He sees in Gollum what he could eventually become. He sees what the ring is capable of doing,” explains Elijah Wood, who plays Frodo in the films. For this reason, Frodo shows compassion toward the creature, despite the threat he poses. Andy Serkis who portrays Sméagol/Gollum in the films, says, “I tried to look at him in a nonjudgmental way – not as a sniveling, evil wretch, but from the point of view of, ‘There but for the grace of God go I.’” The power of the ring to enslave and dehumanize, in many ways, mirrors the effects of sin. “The ring robs you of your free will,” comments Peter Jackson, who directed the movie trilogy. Likewise, “The choice to disobey and do evil is an abuse of freedom and leads to ‘the slavery of sin.’” (CCC 1733, cf. Rom 6:17) The battle of good vs. evil becomes, in a way, a battle of humility vs. pride. “There are many heroes, and all of them have flaws,” says Viggo Mortenson, who plays Aragorn. “You see all these characters having to examine their consciences at

Since it was first published in 1954, The Lord of the Rings trilogy has been read by more than 100 million people. Filmmakers, inspired by their own love for the books, have worked tirelessly to transfer J.R.R. Tolkien’s vision to screen – culminating in the much anticipated film version of The Return of the King, released Dec. 17. Although The Lord of the Rings is not an allegory of Christianity, its themes undoubtedly bear witness to the author’s Catholic faith. (See FAITH Magazine, Sept. 2003) For instance, the story contains timeless truths about our fallen human nature and our need for grace, and it demonstrates the enslavement of sin as opposed to the freedom of love and sacrifice. Evil and darkness must be overcome both in the world and in the heart. This is dramatically revealed in the

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FAITH’s Alton Pelowski was part of an exclusive group of journalists to personally interview the cast of the ‘Lord of the Rings: Return of the King.’ They talked about the movie’s themes of good and evil, temptation and mercy.

a journey: walk with me to find yourself l a s t

certain points.” The heroes know they must acknowledge their weaknesses, act with heroic virtue and never give up hope. They realize that even the Nazgûl, the nine Ringwraiths, were “once great kings of men” who were tempted by “Sauron the deceiver ... one by one falling to darkness.” There is wisdom in giving the small, simple hobbits the hardest job, for “God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong.” (1 Cor 1:27) With this in mind, elves and dwarves must set aside their differences. King Théoden of Rohan must forgive the kingdom of Gondor. Aragorn must face his fears. “The common thread is their awareness that our union is more significant than our individual existence ever will be,” says Mortenson. Each character must renounce selfish interests for the sake of others, demonstrating the fact that “man cannot fully find himself, except through a sincere gift of himself.” (GS 24) The fellowship’s willingness to make great sacrifices reveals that they are motivated by great love. Jesus said, “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (Jn 15:13) At any moment, they could accept defeat, rather than pursuing a seemingly impossible goal. Yet, they continue to hope and believe there must be a way that good can prevail. Just as Gandalf was “sent back” in The Two Towers to help Frodo complete his quest, one gets the sense that the characters are aided by divine assistance. At one point in the film, Frodo has a mystical experience in which Galadriel, Queen of Lorien, reaches out her hand and helps him continue onward. The imagery brings to mind the Blessed Mother, and it shows that Frodo cannot complete his quest without grace. Some characters, such as Denethor, the steward of Gondor, refuse to die to themselves and tragically find only despair and destruction. Jesus taught, “Whoever seeks to gain his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will preserve it.” (Luke 17:33) “We need to understand that evil can be overcome, but its going to be an incredibly difficult journey,” says John Noble, who portrays Denethor in the film. While the struggle to do what is right is dramatized on a literal battlefield in The Return of the King, similar imagery is found in the teachings of Vatican II: “Finding himself in the midst of the battlefield man has to struggle to do what is right, and it is at great cost to himself, and aided by God’s grace, that he succeeds.” (GS 37) What can be learned from The Return of the King? Fran Walsh, who co-wrote the script of the movie trilogy with Philippa Boyens and Peter Jackson, says, “In the end, if there is anything to be taken from the film, it is that its about faith.” – Alton Pelowski is assistant editor/webmaster for FAITH Magazine.

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is rated PG-13 for intense epic battle sequences and frightening images. Parents strongly cautioned.

C. Jones

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alk with me now into affluent modern man’s temple of gods and goddesses. Isn’t the facade beautiful? Aren’t the Corinthian columns magnificent? Our guide, bids us walk along the interior of this pantheon. We pause at gorgeous, creamy statues cut from Carrara marble, standing bigger than life on their impressive pedestals. They represent the gods and goddesses to which we give ourselves – fame, fortune, beauty, power, sex, money, indolence, sloth, jealousy, hatred, gluttony, pride – each one of them capturing the thoughts and fantasies in our day. Standing in the middle is a gigantic statue that towers over all others. We notice that the eyes of all the other gods and goddesses are discretely directed toward this one, the central one of them all, the one that dominates the temple. Cut into the stone pedestal we find the words: “The Glory of the Imperial Self.” The feeling evoked makes me uncomfortable. Departing from this temple, located on a hill high above the city below, we descend into the whirl of this world. As we continue on the main boulevard, we come upon a little church, located at the head of a small street’s intersection. Our guide takes us inside. I find myself bathed in the soft rays of colorful hues that come from beautiful images of holy men and women depicted in the little church’s old, stained-glass windows. Looking around I find warm and inviting statues of men and women who peacefully gaze down at us. Flickering flames of votive candles bathe everything in soft light. Faint whiffs of incense waft by, mingled in with the smells of burning beeswax. There is Something here that was not in the temple high on the hill above us – a near palpable Presence. My eyes take me to the apse of the church. Hanging above us in the central spot of the church is a crucifix. It is beautiful, even though at one moment in time long ago it was a hideous instrument of Roman execution. The Man hanging on it is one like us but at the same time not like us. He hangs there not so much in death as in rest. There is something profoundly serene and peaceful about Him. It is a peace that follows something that is finished rather than destroyed. I did not feel the need to kneel in the pantheon. I need to kneel here. I am aware of a Presence, a nearness that both surrounds me and is within me. I become aware of a stirring deep within – a movement, if you will. Someone is close. Someone wants to draw me near. It is almost as if I am at home – not the home in which my mother and father loved me and raised me, but my real home. Here, I know I belong. He lets me go through my usual litany of sorrow for sins. He lets me rattle on about all of my failures, my neglect, the things I did and did not do. Then, when I become weary of talking about myself, I begin to realize that He wants me to simply tell Him that I love Him. All He wants to hear from me was that underneath all of the ash and debris of my sins and failures, I really do love Him. He wants me to tell Him that I want Him to love me. – Fr. Charles Irvin is the founding editor of FAITH Magazine and is now living an active retirement in DeWitt.

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The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing

300 W. Ottawa Lansing, MI 48933

Online: On TV:

www.DioceseofLansing.org www.FAITHmag.com The Outreach Mass, Sunday, 10 a.m. Flint – FOX 66 Lansing – FOX 47

On Radio: Mass, 11 a.m. on WJIM 1240 AM

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