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THE MAGAZINE OF THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF LANSING
How the clergy shortage and shifting populations may affect your parish
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editor meeting Jesus in our neighbors
how we live the works of mercy f r o m
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ach year, beginning in early September and continuing through mid-October, I engage in a ritual that has been one of my personal favorites as a pastor. In fact, as each year passes, I look forward to it just a little bit more. What is this ritual? Why, it’s the annual interviewing of candidates for the sacrament of confirmation. What’s that, you say? You’d sooner wish to have major surgery than sit with a teen for the 15 minutes of their interview? Perhaps, but I continue to find my interviews with our confirmation candidates to be enlightening and encouraging. They inspire me with their honesty, energy and creativity – especially when it comes to the many ways they seek to be of service within their families, their parish, and the larger civic community.
One group of young people has struck up a friendship with a senior woman. She happens to be the neighbor of one the young men. He, with his friends, noticed that caring for their home had become increasingly difficult for the woman and her husband, who has since died. The young men, without a second thought, continue to take on a variety of projects – including cleaning garden beds in the spring, caring for the pool during the summer, and shoveling the drive and walks during the winter. No one had to ask or tell them to do it – they simply did it because it was, as one of them shared with me, “the right thing to do.” In their They constantly care for their neighbor, they meet Jesus, and in graciously accepting their helping hands, the teach me that taking the risk to woman, now widowed, meets Jesus, too. Another group of young people decided they would like to help our parish food pantry. In use the gifts that God gives us – in one weekend, they collected nearly 1,000 pounds of canned goods and other non-perishable items by going door-to-door in their own neighborhoods. They delivered the food to whatever form the pantry on a Sunday afternoon. By Monday, it was bagged and ready for distribution. By those gifts may Wednesday of that same week, what they had collected was given away – at a time when, take – to meet unbeknownst to the young workers, I was wondering how we were going to refill the Jesus’ needs in pantry in order to meet the needs of the coming week. In providing food for the hungry, our own time Jesus is met, and through the kindness of strangers, the hungry who come to our door is a profound meet Jesus. opportunity to The creativity and energy of these young people astounds me, as does their love of God grow in faith and an often humbling and their concern for neighbor. In sharing their insights with me, they seem to know instinctively that when they engage in the corporal or spiritual works of mercy they will, in way in which to some way, meet Jesus face-to-face. They constantly teach me that taking the risk to use the meet the Lord. gifts that God gives us – in whatever form those gifts may take – to meet Jesus’ needs in our own time is a profound opportunity to grow in faith and an often humbling way in which to meet the Lord. Daily we encounter multiple opportunities to meet Jesus in the poor, the hungry, the homeless, the hurting and the imprisoned. So, too, we meet Jesus when we encounter the sinner, those who seek knowledge or counsel, those who sorrow, and in our care and prayers for those who have died. The corporal and spiritual works of mercy will be our guides for the year ahead – a year that will be filled with God’s grace and untold, unanticipated blessings. And so our journey in FAITH continues.
T. Gennara
– 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, The Mother of God Jan. 1 | Sts. Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, Bishops and Doctors of the Church Jan. 2 | The Most H
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insi inside 24
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s t o r y What we did on our spring break – God’s call to serve the poor. Three students from Michigan State University talk about why they went on an alternative spring break – and why you should think about it, too.
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– Marybeth Hicks
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m i r a c l e To give drink to the thirsty. When a visiting priest described the conditions in his home village in Uganda, the people of Old St. Patrick Parish in Ann Arbor rushed in to help. Read about their partnership with the village of Yerya. – Elizabeth Solsburg
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s p e c i a l r e p o r t The Diocese of Lansing is facing two issues: a clergy shortage and shifting populations. How will this affect your parish? Read our special report to find out how Bishop Mengeling is acting to address these important issues.
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From homeless to hopeful – Laverne found a new purpose in life at the North End Soup Kitchen. Laverne has faced challenges many people would find insurmountable, but she is a giver. Find out how the North End Soup Kitchen helped Laverne when she was hungry and homeless, and how she is now helping others. -- Bob Horning
what you’ll get out of this issue • Dear Fr. Joe: Did Jesus own the coat he wore? 6 in the know with Fr. Joe – Fr. Joseph Krupp
• He’s frugal, she’s a spender. What should they do? 8 your marriage matters – Cheval Breggins
• How can I make my children care? Teaching sensitivity to others. 9 the parenting journey – Dr. Cathleen McGreal
• Can I display a crucifix at work? 11 work life – Tim Ryan • A step-by-step guide through the church’s liturgies. 12 theology 101 – Elizabeth Solsburg
• When has the church helped others? 14 from the bishop – Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling
• Franciscan spirituality – how to become the Good News of Jesus Christ. 24 spiritual fitness – Fr. Bill Ashbaugh
Most Holy Name of Jesus Jan. 3 | St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Religious Jan. 4 | St. John Neumann, Bishop Jan. 5 | Blessed Andre Bessette, Religious Jan. 6 | St. Raymond of Penafort, Priest Jan. 7
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The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing
Most Reverend Carl F. Mengeling PUBLISHER
Rev. Charles Irvin FOUNDING EDITOR
January/February 2006 • Volume 7 : Issue 1
Rev. Dwight Ezop EDITOR IN CHIEF
news diocesan happenings l o c a l
n e w s
s n a p s h o t
Patrick M. O’Brien MANAGING EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Elizabeth Martin Solsburg ASSISTANT EDITOR/STAFF WRITER
Patrick Dally ART DIRECTOR/WEB DESIGNER
Jillane Job SUBSCRIPTIONS/SECRETARY
Patricia Oliver SECRETARY
Rev. William Ashbaugh Michelle DiFranco Marybeth Hicks Bob Horning Elizabeth Johnson Rev. Joseph Krupp Cheval Breggins Cathleen McGreal John Morris Pat Nischan Rick and Diane Peiffer Patrick Rinker Tim Ryan Allena Tapia Sara Teller CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Derek Melot Margaret Perrone PROOFREADING
Tom Gennara Christine Jones James Luning (cover) CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Vicki Bedard Wayne Case Patricia Garcia Mary Jo Gilliland Diane Nowak Margaret Perrone James Rhadigan Ricardo Rodriguez David Rosenberg Rev. James Swiat Peter Wagner Sharon Wimple
Congratulations! Congratulations to Larry Loje of Flushing, who correctly answered our October Bible Quiz. The answers were a: Ruth, b: Sarah, c: Miriam, d: Deborah. Larry received a copy of In My Father’s Steps, co-authored by Fr. William Turner of St. Mary Parish in Chelsea. Kudos to Richard Drummond of Swartz Creek, who correctly answered the Liturgical Quiz in our October issue, and won a year-long subscription to FAITH Magazine for his son. The answers were: pyx: c, monstrance: b, ciborium: a, purificator: c, corporal: b (we also accepted d), chasuble: c, sacrarium: c.
The two fifth-grade classes at St. Gerard School in Lansing celebrated October 7th, the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, by making the rosaries featured in the September issue of FAITH.
Knights of Columbus soccer championships Catholic students, ages 10-14, recently participated in the Knights of Columbus soccer contest. Local parish winners went to Okemos for the diocesan finals. Ten total winners from the diocese, one boy and one girl in each of five age groups, went to the state finals in Midland to compete against winners from other dioceses.
in the beginning
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by Chris Sushynski
The Annual Pro-Life Motorcades through the streets of Flint and Lansing will be held Jan. 20 and Jan. 23, respectively. The Lansing motorcade will line up at Liberty Christian Church, 2215 E. Michigan Ave. at 1 p.m. Consult your parish bulletins for more details about how you can support this powerful message in support of the unborn.
ADVISORY BOARD
FAITH Publishing Ser vice Rev. Dwight Ezop CHAIRMAN
Patrick M. O’Brien PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Beverly Sherman SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGER
Enomhen Odigie GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGN
InnerWorkings PRINT MANAGEMENT
FAITHPublishingService.com 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 209 Seymour Ave., Lansing, MI 48933; 517. 342.2595; fax 517.342.2537 or e-mail jjob@dioceseoflansing.org. Periodicals Postage Paid at Lansing, MI or additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: FAITH™, 209 Seymour Ave., Lansing, MI 48933. ©FAITH Publishing Service. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Publishing Service.
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“Oh? This is normal? I was trying to cast a demon out of him...”
A one-day retreat is being offered for individuals and families who have suffered a loss due to any infant death – miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal. The retreat will be held May 6 at the St. Francis Retreat Center. Look for additional details in your parish bulletins during March and April.
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FAITH 2006 The Magazine Epiphany of theJanuary/February Lord Jan. 8 | The Baptism of the Lord Jan. 9 | St. Hilary, Bishop and Doctor of the Church Jan. 13 | St. Anthony, Abbot Jan. 17 | St. Fabian, Pope and Martyr Jan. 2
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web s saint ai fame and fortune?
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
founded the first free Catholic school for girls in the United States
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St. Elizabeth ou can Ann Seton learn a Feast Day: Jan. 4 lot about Claim to fame: Elizabeth children Ann Bayley Seton was the first by asking what they native-born North American would like to be to be canonized. A convert, she founded the first religious when they grow up. community of women in the Back in kindergarUnited States (the Sisters of ten, my son told us he Charity of St. Joseph), the wanted to be a priest. I thought this was wonder- first free Catholic school for girls in the United States, and also the first Catholic hospital and orphanage in the ful – a reflection of his budding spirituality and United States. faith in God. Turns out he was simply attracted Little-known fact: When Elizabeth, who had been brought to the idea that he wouldn’t have to get married. up in a prominent Episcopalian family in New York, converted “I don’t want a wife telling me what to do,” he to Catholicism, she faced religious prejudice not only from Protsaid – as if he had ever seen such a wife. Hmmm. estants in the community, but also from her own family. They As he got older, his goal changed. One morning over breakfast, he said he no longer wanted to be a priest. “Really?” I asked. “What made you change your mind?” “I want to be the bishop. He doesn’t have a wife telling him what to do, plus he’s the one to tell all the other priests what to do. It’s a better job.” That goal lasted about a week. Next thing we knew, he declared his plan be become the pope. “Oh, I get it,” my husband said. “He wants to go into politics.” We all started calling him Il Papa for a while, until his dream evolved again. Now he wants to play in the
NBA. Of course, because he’s just 10, anything is possible. At dinner recently, I conducted an updated survey on the career plans of our four children. This is a good way to get a handle on their sense of purpose, not to mention that it’s a reality check on our college savings plan. We figure anyone older than 11 who considers the medical profession as an option might be serious. That would make things more expensive for us than, say, having a child who longs to sell insurance. Unfortunately, none of them ever talks about selling insurance. I don’t know why not. Some of the happiest and most prosperous people I know are my insurance professionals. Plus, they play a lot of golf. This seems like a great career. – Marybeth Hicks
Read the rest of Marybeth Hicks’ article, along with other exclusive essays, features and news briefs only on FAITHmag.com.
were afraid she would influence others in the family to become Catholic.They were right! Her sisters-in-law Cecilia and Harriet converted. What made her a saint: Elizabeth overcame many obstacles with unwavering faith. Widowed at 29, with five small children, she trusted in God to show her the divine plan for her life, even though she didn’t always know what it was. Unable to succeed in her native New York, she founded her mission in Maryland, a state friendly to Catholics. There, she was able to start a Catholic school and a women’s religious order. In her short life, she led her community into many paths of religious service that still exist today, including schools, hospitals and social justice to the poor, who were Jesus personified. She had a strong devotion to the Eucharist, which she shared with others through her writings and her example. Best quote: “Faith lifts the staggering soul on one side, hope supports it on the other, experience says it must be, and love says let it be.” How did she die? St. Elizabeth Ann Seton died of tuberculosis at the age of 46. Prayer: Loving God, you graced Elizabeth Ann Seton, enabling her to be a good wife, mother, teacher, and foundress, so that she might give her life in ministry to others. May her example inspire us to be compassionate and selfless in our love for you and for one another. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son. Amen. – Elizabeth Johnson
r Jan. 20 | St. Sebastian, Martyr Jan. 20 | St. Agnes, Virgin and Martyr Jan. 21 | St. Francis de Sales, Bishop and Doctor of the Church Jan. 24 | The Conversion of Paul, Apostle Jan. 25
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frr. jjo dear Fr. Joe:
did Jesus own the coat he wore?
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J o e
Dear Fr. Joe: Did Jesus own the coat he wore? The church seems to own a lot of gold, art, property; why don’t we sell all that and give it to the poor? Why do any of us own anything?
Photo: T. Gennara
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reat question here. Did Jesus own the coat he wore? Absolutely. But maybe I can suggest that a better question would be “Did Jesus’ coat own him?” The answer to that would be a resounding “no.” The key to possessions is that we own them and they don’t own us. How do we know if that is the case? The first step to knowing if we own something or if it owns us is to break everything we have into two categories: wants and needs. Wants are things that are there for our enjoyment or pleasure. They bring us a small measure of happiness, but ultimately, they are not things that we must have. I think my sanity is an example of this. Needs are those things that are important for our survival, or enable us to function in the world. Great examples are my truck and phone – I need these to effectively function as a priest. A serious argument could be made that Double Stuf Oreos are essential to my survival, but I won’t go there. In terms of wants, we should be willing and able to part with them at a moment’s notice to help someone who will use our help responsibly. If we can do that, then we own our possessions and they don’t own us. Your next question is one a lot of people ask, and I am glad I finally have a chance to address it here. The church does own a vast storehouse of art and treasures; one look at the Vatican museum or St. Peter’s Basilica can absolutely take your breath away. The sheer beauty of those collections is amazing. But here is the thing – did you notice that I typed, “One look at?” That is the key – anyone can see and admire these treasures whenever they are on display. The Vatican doesn’t collect any kind of wealth for
A friend of mine recently sent me a list of bulletin bloopers. I thought I’d share one with you. This announcement supposedly appeared in a local bulletin: “Our youth basketball team is back in action against Christ the King Baptist this Wednesday at 8 p.m. in the recreation hall. Come out and watch us beat Christ the King.“ and from them – they are available to view at the Vatican, and then often travel to museums around the world. The church acts as guardian of the beauty that various artists have created through the ages. I found a Web site that states the rest of this argument quite well: http://home.nyc.rr.com/mysticalrose/answers2.html. I guess Jesus’ words stand true: “The poor you will have with you always.” (Matt 26:11) Incidentally, he said that in response to his disciples when they objected to a woman pouring expensive oil on his body. They thought she should have sold the oil and given the money to the poor. But Jesus told them that there was nothing wrong with her lavishing this expensive
oil on him. In the same way, there is nothing wrong with people donating gold and precious items to adorn a beautiful church building, since this is done to the glory of God. Make sure and take a look at the catechism, sections 2501 and 2502. They give us a great description of the beauty and power of art. That’s it for me! Enjoy another day in God’s presence. – Fr. Joseph Krupp
Send your questions to: “In the Know with Fr. Joe” FAITH Magazine 209 Seymour Ave. Lansing, MI 48933 Or: JoeInBlack@priest.com
Sts. 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 Presentati
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qui poll quiz 3 ... 2 ...1... Happy New Year!
FAITH asks:
what year was the first New Year’s Day celebrated on Jan. 1?
what do you want to do this year?
h i s t o r y
q u i z
p a r i s h
The church first held the annual feast of the Chair of St. Peter to commemorate the day when the Apostle Peter held his first service at the Eternal City on Jan. 18, WHAT YEAR?
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FAITH asked fifth-graders at St. John School in Jackson about their plans for 2006. They answered the questions: Are you making a New Year’s resolution? and What is it? Here’s a sampling of what they thought –
Soon after taking office, Roman Emperor Julius Caesar decided that the traditional Roman calendar was in dire need of reform. He enlisted the aid of Sosigenes, an Alexandrian astronomer, who helped devise the Julian calendar. The first Julian New Year’s Day fell on Jan.1, WHAT YEAR? Nicolaus Copernicus became known to all as the father of modern astronomy for proposing that the earth revolves around the sun. This founder of heliocentric theory was born in Poland on Feb.19, WHAT YEAR? “Always aim at the complete harmony of thought and word and deed.” One of the most respected spiritual and political leaders in history, Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by a Hindu fanatic on Jan. 30, WHAT YEAR? – Sara Teller
Elliott, age 11: My New Year’s resolution is to talk less.
Kelsey, age 10: My New Year’s resolution would be to try to be nicer and not have an attitude for one whole year, at least.
Lloyd, age 10: My New Year’s resolution is to not complain or blame others for losing a game.
354 A.D., 45 B.C., 1473, 1948,
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CCHD Award Winner Deacon Dave Scharf, of St. Mary Magdalen Parish in Brighton, is the 2005 winner of the Dr. Albert Wheeler Seeker of Justice Award, The 15th annual award, sponsored by the Catholic Campaign for Human Development, is given to an individual or an organization who work for greater social justice. Deacon Dave Scharf, who was profiled in the January 2005 issue of FAITH, retired from Chrysler Corporation in 1994, after a 39year career. He became a deacon and devotes his full-time energies to ministry. Dave’s wife, Judy, is also active in ministry and Dave calls her “St. Judy” for the support and encouragement she gives him.
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Jamboree
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On Nov. 13, teens from the Diocese of Lansing attended Jamboree 2005, a day of workshops, presentations, food and fun. Keynote speaker Nick Alexander provided a humorous look at many of today’s pop songs, rewriting the lyrics to be both devoutly Catholic and laugh-out-loud funny. This year’s Friend of Youth Award went to Paul Schlegelmilch, who has been a director of religious education and a youth minister for the Diocese of Lansing for more than 20 years.
Sue Furda becomes an IHM Associate Susan Furda, a parishioner at St. Joseph Parish in Dexter, recently celebrated her commitment as an associate with the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM). Furda participated in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults in 1994 and later received her advanced certification in theological studies from Siena Heights University. She is a commissioned lay ecclesial minister for the Diocese of Lansing. Sr. Paracleta Schnebelt, IHM, served as Furda’s vowed companion along her journey of preparation.
of Americans are convinced God exists.
Gallup Poll 10/24/05
What do you think? Log on to FAITHmag.com then click FAITH forums to discuss this and other interesting topics.
sentation of the Lord Feb. 2 | St. Blaise, Bishop and Martyr Feb. 3 | St. Ansgar, Bishop Feb. 3 | St. Paul Miki, Religious and his Companions, Martyrs Feb. 6 | St. Scholastica, Virgin Feb. 10
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marri ma rriage a age he says ... she says ...
what should they do?
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she’s a spender
he’s frugal I’m getting really concerned about our financial situation. I know we’re both only 26, but we do need to think about our future. Elaine seems to We’re both hoping to be blessed think we can just with children and that’s a huge live paycheck to financial responsibility. Not only do we have to consider what it paycheck and worry about the costs to raise them, but there’s also college. We also need to be future when it financially independent in our comes. That’s retirement. I realize it’s a sacrifice, what her parents always did, but it’s prudent to be saving 25 and now they’re percent of our monthly income. paying for it with Elaine seems to think we can just financial hardship. live paycheck to paycheck and worry about the future when it comes. That’s what her parents always did, and now they’re paying for it with financial hardship. This is causing a lot of tension in our marriage.
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Hide a note or surprise in your spouse’s suitcase before a business trip. It’s like sending a little bit of yourself along. Bring home a small souvenir when you travel. Your spouse will know you were thinking about him. t i m e
Volunteer Together. Volunteering as a couple provides an opportunity to share the joys and blessings of being and working together for a common goal.
what should they do?
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lthough Larry and Elaine should avail themselves of financial planning seminars, budgeting guidelines and other information to address the practicalities of their divergent attitudes toward money, their fundamental need is to tackle the underlying philosophy about finances and stewardship. This can be addressed spiritually, and I would suggest that Larry and Elaine consider Benedictine spirituality and its focus on moderation, stewardship and stability. Stewardship is the godly use
T. Gennara
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arry and Elaine have been married for just over a year. They are both working full time and have no children. Larry is an accountant and Elaine manages a retail store. They have very different styles of financial management, an issue that has become a regular source of argument and irritation in an otherwise happy relationship.
We’re only 26, I honestly don’t understand why Larry is so upset. we have great We’re only 26, we have great jobs and this is the time we jobs and this is the time we should be able to should be able to enjoy our enjoy our lives a lives a little. We’ll have to settle down soon enough and little. I don’t see why we shouldn’t splurge a little now. My parents always believed in living in the moment – one day at a time. After all, you don’t really know what the future will bring. I agree with Larry that this is causing a lot of trouble between us; I feel as if we argue about it all the time.
Our Lady of Lourdes Feb. 11 | St. Cyril, Monk and St. Methodius, Bishop Feb. 14 | The Seven Founders of the Order of the Servites, Religious Feb. 17 | St. Peter Damian, Bishop and Martyr Feb. 21 | T
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marriage resources: St. Francis Retreat Center is holding marriage retreats: Jan. 14, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.: The Sacrament of Matrimony – Growing in Marital Spirituality; Feb. 11, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.: Communication, Intimacy and Commitment.
how can I make my children care? teaching sensitivity to others j o u r n e y
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First thing after rising in the morning, say to your spouse, “I will love you and honor you all the days of my life.” Now live it – because actions speak louder than words! of our resources – including our time and money. Both of these things, like all our material possessions, are on loan from our Larry and Elaine Creator. It is our responsibility should ask them- to manage them well and care for them, without developing selves whether an unhealthy sense of owntheir purchases ership over them. It is also and material possessions are our responsibility to use our things they need resources to feed the hungry, or fulfillments of clothe the naked and shelter excessive desires. the homeless, as Jesus asked us to do. Larry and Elaine should ask themselves whether their purchases and material possessions are things they need or fulfillments of excessive desires. Is Elaine’s spending preventing them from giving to the poor and supporting their parish? Is Larry’s desire to save prompted by a desire to prudently plan so that they will have enough to raise a family and not be a burden to their children, or is he hoping to live lavishly later in life? This couple will benefit from prayerfully considering their responsibilities as stewards of God’s creation, discussing with each other how they will manage their finances in order to do so, and then living a Christian witness of charity and moderation. If they focus on their common goals in this regard, their arguments should cease and their relationship will improve. – Cheval Breggins
T. Gennara
Good Marriage Tip:
As a couple, you should have ongoing family meetings to discuss the philosophy, direction, and evaluation of your financial plan. Yearly at least, quarterly at best. One financial chat early in your marriage won’t cut it. Not only do our circumstances change in life, but so do we.
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n New Year’s Day, we welcome the new year and review the old. Once again, we watch images of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita devastating our country. Last August, the necessity of providing the corporal works of mercy was evident – we had to give concrete aid to our neighbors in their basic need. People were stranded and surrounded by water, yet thirsting. They were homeless, without food, without work. This generation of American children and adolescents began to understand the distinction between needs and wants in a solid and material way. How can we help them continue in this understanding? “You shall open your hand to your brother ... ” (Deut. 15:11)
Encourage children when they desire to show mercy toward others. For example, soon after Hurricane Katrina, 6-year-old Lauren Barrett received permission from her mother to have a lemonade stand and send the profits to the Red Cross. Her efforts were publicized on her local TV station in Kentucky. Other children were doing the same in other states. Sunkist Growers, a huge farm cooperative, set up a matching fund program. The participating farmers donated supplies for more stands. Children can understand that their efforts provide necessities to other families: food, water, shelter and clothing. “ I have learned, in whatever state I am, to be content.” (Phil 4:11) “Do as I say, not as I do” just doesn’t work with children and adolescents. They are keen observers and note whether we “walk the talk.” Even adults can have trouble explaining some of their purchases. Are we content with the blessings in our lives? Do we stop to treasure those possessions which have a value measured by sentiment rather than dollars – an old baby photo, a quilt made generations ago? In my kitchen, I have a 60-year-old ceramic outlet cover from my grandma’s house. Its only value is the memory it sparks. Help your children define the things they treasure, not just what’s plugged in the world of advertising. “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.” (Ps 37:4) Games and balls, pools and dolls can bring laughter and joy. Or they can sit unused or discarded after a week of ownership. Help your children determine which items are “desires of the heart” and which seem special because they were intriguing on a commercial or at a friend’s house.
21 | The Chair of St. Peter, Apostle Feb. 22 | St. Polycarp, Bishop and Martyr Feb. 23
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what in the world? the top-10 Catholic News events this month t o p
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world earthquake in Pakistan worse than tsunami in some ways w o r l d
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A papal TV screening
Pope Benedict XVI watches Jon Voight playing Pope John Paul II in a CBS miniseries about the late pope.
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Pope urges protection in Darfur
On Nov. 28, Pope Benedict XVI urged strong international action to protect the people of the Darfur region in Sudan.
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Health care for all
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Death penalty legitimizes “culture of death”
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Was Shakespeare Catholic?
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Ordaining gay men?
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Catholic Universities
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Let freedom ring
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Vatican drops condom-promoting pop star from Christmas concert
Nov. 19 marked 60 years of failed efforts to achieve some sort of national health reform. Sister Carol Keehan, president and CEO of the Catholic Health Association, calls it “a dramatic reminder of how we continue to tolerate the intolerable.”
That’s the word from the spokesman for a Rome-based Catholic lay organization hoping to prevent two executions scheduled in the United States.
Probably. And Clare Asquith claims he used his works to send coded messages to recusant Catholics in his time. Her new book is Shadowplay: The Hidden Beliefs and Coded Politics of William Shakespeare. A Vatican document said the church cannot allow priestly ordination of men who are active homosexuals, who have “deep-seated” homosexual tendencies or who support the “gay culture.”
Pope Benedict said Catholic universities can bridge the cultural chasm between science and faith by offering top-quality research and study that upholds the dignity of the person and promotes the good of society. The United States of America is seen as a beacon of hope for many– including Iraqis – who lack religious, political and economic freedom, said a top Vatican official, Archbishop John P. Foley.
Brazilian pop singer Daniela Mercury appears in anti-AIDS TV spots advocating condom use.
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The farmer in the dell – and the world
Pope Benedict XVI encouraged the international community to support small family farms and make sure they have access to the increasingly globalized market. FAITH Magazine
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n some ways, the Oct. 8 earthquake that devastated northern Pakistan and parts of India was worse than the 2004 tsunami, yet the international community’s response has lagged far behind its response to the tsunami, said a top Catholic relief official in the region. Kevin Hartigan, Catholic Relief Services’ regional director for South Asia, described “valley after valley of destruction, which has limited the ability of people to help each other.”
He said relief workers fear they will be unable to reach thousands of victims who, as a result, will perish in the bitter winter weather. In a telephone interview from his office in Delhi, India, Hartigan told Catholic News Service that the large number of those left wounded by the quake also “leaves a big burden on society in the coming years.” Hartigan said the global outpouring of support for tsunami victims was an anomaly. “Most emergencies in the world, like the earthquake in Pakistan, sadly inspire inadequate responses on the global level,” he said, adding that the impressive response to the tsunami was, in part, a product of good media coverage.
“Images of the tsunami were extremely compelling and enabled people to empathize with the victims,” he said. By comparison, there was no video footage of the recent earthquake, and the first reports of the emergency, according to Hartigan, “underestimated the tragedy, and it hasn’t remained as much in the news as more complete information has come out.” Hartigan said the tsunami response was also helped by the disaster’s proximity to the 2004 holiday season, whereas the earthquake followed a series of disasters – including Hurricane Katrina in the United States – that have left many feeling overwhelmed by appeals for humanitarian assistance. – CNS
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can I display a crucifix at work? w o r k
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U.S. Bishops approve lay ecclesial ministry guidelines The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Nov. 15 approved a major document giving guidelines on lay ecclesial ministry after some debate over use of the terms “minister” and “ministry” with regard to lay people serving the church. The debate ended after Cardinal Avery Dulles, long one of the country’s most noted Catholic theologians, rose to defend the usage in the text, saying the drafters “were very careful to see that the terminology is in accord with the documents of the Holy See and with a whole series of documents previously published by this conference.” The 82-page document, Co-workers in the Vineyard of the Lord, needed approval by two-thirds of the entire membership of the conference, or 182 votes. It passed by a vote of 190-49 with five abstentions. – CNS
John Jay College chosen to do major clergy sex abuse study
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Joan is a project manager for a mid-sized manufacturing company that is experiencing tough times because of the economy.
‘ve worked here for a few years and it’s never been as tense as it’s been recently. A lot of people have been laid off and we’re all wondering who’s going to be next. I feel as if all our relationships are on edge – nobody wants to take responsibility for anything that goes wrong because we’re afraid it will put us on the layoff ‘hit list.’ But I’ve just had the greatest personal experience! I went through RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) and I have never been so aware of God’s presence in my life. Because of the work atmosphere, I really need to be reminded of that presence during the day, so I put up a little crucifix over my desk. I also thought maybe it would be a conversation starter. “
What should Joan do? Not all of us are called to be John the Baptist, preaching the coming of the Lord non-stop. God gives us the strength to fulfill our roles uniquely. As St. Paul wrote, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (1Cor 12:9) Allow God to work through you, rather than trying to control each moment. Joan may not be called to be John the Baptist – she may be called to be Mother Teresa. Mother Teresa’s model of quiet service may play out in various ways at work: • listening to others’ problems. • not gossiping or bad-mouthing fellow employees. • defending co-workers who are being unfairly blamed. • accepting responsibility for problems you caused. • doing a good job even when you feel you’re not being treated fairly.
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The U.S. bishops’ National Review Board selected the John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York to conduct a Ewers major study of the causes and context of clergy child sex abuse. The announcement was made Nov. 16 by Patricia O’Donnell Ewers, board chairwoman. The study plan calls for John Jay College to work with Jesuit-run Fordham University in New York and other experts across the country. The aim of the study is to better help church leaders understand the problem and improve prevention measures. – CNS
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If Joan focuses her energy on serving others, she shouldn’t worry that she’s
denying Jesus if she takes the crucifix down. Simple acts of service and kindness can serve as a beacon of God’s light as much as any outward expression of our religion. And what’s best for the boss? What about management’s perspective? There’s been a rule of thumb that religion doesn’t belong in the workplace. But recent studies indicate that faith in the workplace is positive – when people are able to engage their spiritual nature at work, good things happen for everyone. • Ian Mitroff and Elizabeth Denton, authors of A Spiritual Audit of Corporate America, discovered that companies tend to be more effective when they respect and enable the spiritual development of employees. Many companies recognize the value of employee fitness – evidenced by workout rooms and health plans. Humans are also spiritual creatures. In order to be truly successful, companies win by responding to employees’ spiritual needs as well as their physical requirements. – Tim Ryan
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theology 1 what is the liturgy?
a 9-part exploration of the church’s public prayer t h e o l o g y
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genuflection: The gesture of bending one knee to the ground arose during the Middle Ages as a sign of penitence and adoration. Christians in the early church prayed while standing. The Romans introduced the custom of prostration before Caesar as a god, which was subsequently adopted by Christians. This evolved to a profound bow, which continues in the East. By about 1502, the custom of genuflecting before the Blessed Sacrament had replaced the deep bow. Now, it is customary to genuflect when paying reverence to the Blessed Sacrament in the tabernacle. When the tabernacle is empty, as it is from after the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Holy Thursday until after Communion on Good Friday, we do not genuflect. FAITH Magazine
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We are to leave the house of worship and carry the love of Jesus we have experienced out into the world. Today’s Mass resembles the liturgy of the early church in many ways. From the earliest days, the liturgy revolved around the Eucharistic meal. The word eucharist means “thanksgiving” and that is exactly what the early Christians did – they gave thanks for the presence of Jesus in their midst. From the beginning, the assembled brothers and sisters believed that Jesus was truly present with them – in their midst as they gathered and in the bread and wine they blessed and shared. The early churches were in members’ homes or outdoors. Passover ritual was incorporated into the Eucharist – continuing in many of the prayers we still utter: “Blessed are you, Lord God of all creation ... ” At the end of the era of Christian persecution, after an edict by the Emperor Constantine, communities became much larger due to the freedom to gather openly. They needed larger buildings and began to gather in public buildings like large courthouses or basilicas. Christians added rituals they had encountered there – such as great processions with vesture and incense. As the large church buildings were peopled with rapidly catechized members, the act of liturgy became more invested in the person of the priest. By the Middle Ages, the priest was perceived as reciting the Mass on behalf of the people,
T. Gennara
he central liturgy, or public prayer, of the church is the Mass. The Mass derives its name from its former final words of dismissal: Ite missa est – “Go, it is the sending.”
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bible quiz
wise sayings from Scripture b i b l e
a A wise saying from the Book of Ecclesiastes.
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1 Say nothing harmful, small or great; be not a foe instead of a friend. A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who finds one finds a treasure.
b A wise saying from the Book of Sirach.
2 This is the fate of the greedy; unlawful gain costs the life of the person who acquires it.
c A wise saying from the Gospel of Matthew.
3 Not on bread alone does man live, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.
d A wise saying from the Book of Sirach.
4 Two are better than one; if the one falls, the other can help.
e A wise saying from the Book of Proverbs
5 If you are willing to listen, you will learn. – Sr. Janet Schaeffler answers: 1: b; 2: e; 3: c; 4: a: 5: d
clerical suit: who often could not hear him nor understand what had once been the vernacular or common language of Roman citizens, Latin. This ancient language was now reserved for academics. The result was that the gathered assembly said private prayers while “hearing” the priest “say” Mass. An emphasis on the divinity of Jesus and his By the early 1900s, the con- role as judge meant that recepgregation began tion of Communion was a rare making some of occurrence among the laity and the responses that the cup was withdrawn from the people for fear of spillage. had previously In the mid 1800s, there was been made only by altar servers. an increased interest in liturgical renewal and lay participation in the Mass. By the early 1900s, the congregation began making some of the responses that had previously been made only by altar servers. In the early 1950s,Pope Pius XII restored Holy Week and the Easter triduum to earlier practices. In 1963, the first document promulgated at the Second Vatican Council, The Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, called for a greater appreciation of the theology of liturgy and for the reform of all our liturgical books, including a “new” order of the Mass. Once again, the priest faced the people. And once again, they could understand the readings and prayers and could participate more fully with songs and acclamations. Vatican II did not bring new elements to the Mass as much as it restored a sense of the early church with us today. As the early followers of the Risen Lord knew that Jesus was with them, so do we fully enter into a union with him at Mass. And so, when the words of dismissal are spoken – “The Mass is ended,” we reply with great joy, “Thanks be to God.”
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Where did we get the liturgical calendar? The liturgical calendar, like the secular one, is a rhythmic observance of ebb and flow. The church seasons evolved, gradually codified into the calendar we know today. Easter and Pentecost were the earliest special observances. The entire paschal mystery, including the triumph of Easter, is celebrated every Sunday during the year.
Ordained clergy members often wear black suits with a white collar known as the roman collar. The collar originated in the 15th century, when it was a popular secular practice to turn one’s linen collar up and over the outer garment. By the 19th century, it became customary to insert a starched linen collaro onto the rabat, the highcollared, backless vest worn under a cassock. w h a t ’ s
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he baptismal font is the basin containing blessed water in which new members of the church are baptized. It is generally made of stone, although glass and metal are also used. If possible, the water in the font should be moving – this is the “living water” by which we are reborn into the faith. In the earliest days of Christianity, baptism took place in rivers or the sea. As specific containers for baptismal waters were built, they were often called swimming-baths or natatoria, as they were large enough for total immersion. The term, fons, or “spring of water,” became the name of choice, thus leading to our word, font.
By Elizabeth Solsburg | Illustrations by Bob Patten
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when has the church helped others?
In his teaching on the Last Judgment, Jesus lists six actions as the basis on which we will be judged. That’s in Matthew, Chapter 25, when the Lord separates the sheep from the goats
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here were lots of surprises after ordination, in my first assignment and ever since. This is true of all priests. One of the biggest was to discover how much and how often the seven corporal (bodily) works of mercy were part of our ministry. I experienced how the priest and parish work together as a team of mercy.
FAITH Magazine
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Of course, we learned in the The editors of FAITH asked me catechism about the to share situations of seven spiritual and dire and massive need From its start, as seven corporal works when people were we read in the of mercy. The sisters Book of Acts and helped by the church. made us memorize in the letters of Paul Two “biggies” stand out. them. I learned more What are these corporal and James, the in the seminary, but works of mercy? Corpochurch has been they didn’t clue us in very busy helping ral comes from the Latin word corpus, which about what would be people with their means “body.” These a significant part in the basic needs. works of mercy help life of a priest and the people meet their physical needs. life of his parish.
January/February 2006
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In his teaching on the Last Judgment, Jesus lists six of them as the basis on which we will be judged. That’s in Matthew, chapter 25, when the Lord separates the sheep from the goats. Jesus requires these six actions from his disciples: • feed the hungry, • give drink to the thirsty, • shelter the homeless, • clothe the naked, • comfort the sick, • visit prisoners. The seventh corporal work was added in the third century by Lactantius in his Divine Institutions. The merciful act of burying the dead is based on the Book of Tobit. From its start, as we read in the Book of Acts and in the letters of Paul and James, the church has been very busy helping people with their basic needs. Of course, at the same time, the church is busy with the spiritual works of mercy. The need for these arises from the grave and challenging crises that happen during the ministry of most priests. One of these occurred during my first pastorate at All Saints Parish in Hammond, Ind. I arrived in June 1968 to become pastor of the famous “Irish Parish.” The Irish Parish was proud of its long and grand history, but by the ’60s it had shifted and become a typical inner-city parish. Some ‘old timers’ were still there and were active parishioners, but there were many new people in the neighborhood and the parish. The large and stately parish complex witnessed to a past heyday, but now circumstances had changed. I recall a rectory large enough for five priests, an impressive and spacious church, a closed school and an empty convent. That convent would soon prove to be a surprising godsend. In 1969, an unexpected catastrophe quickly overwhelmed and totally impoverished a large family. Fire, fanned by wind, raged out of control. It rapidly consumed the home and possessions of a large family. This was a heartbreaking tragedy for a couple and their seven children. In addition to their devastating loss, they had meager resources and nowhere to live. I did not know the family, but some parishio-
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ners did and they arranged a meeting that day. The desperation of helplessness of the fire victims was heartrending. I assured them that the parish would provide immediate and long-term help to meet their many needs. As we talked of the ways the parish could help, the most pressing need was unmet – “Where will we live?” Looking back, the answer was right under our noses. Eventually, the Holy Spirit showed me the obvious – the convent! It could be their home as long as necessary. The building and utilities were in good condition and the sisters’ rooms had spring beds and mattresses, but that was all. The parish and others quickly mobilized and took care of everything else the family needed, including clothing and food. The Irish Parish experienced another heyday by answering Jesus’ call. The second account of how the church helps could come from most U.S. Catholic parishes. The end of the Vietnam War in 1975 left millions of refugees in its wake. Our country opened its doors. The Catholic Church and others agreed to welcome, accept and care for refugees. Most American parishes participated. A nationwide program prepared the parishes. After processing, the refugees were assigned to a parish. J. Luning
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At that time, I was pastor of Nativity Parish, where I served from 1971 to 1985.The people of Nativity enthusiastically agreed to help refugees. In July 1975, we were informed that a Vietnamese widow and her five young children were coming to Nativity. They would arrive in August. The parish was very excited during those days about the opening of our brand-new Catholic school. An amazing thing happened – on the day our school bus arrived, many parents and children gathered in the parking lot. Coincidentally, in the midst of the parishioners’ joy of a new school and the new bus, the Vietnamese family arrived! It was as though the welcome were planned. On the spot, two of the children were enrolled in our new school. Our parish committee had everything ready and a long-term happy relationship began. It was a mutual gift and blessing for all. Recently, one of the widow’s married daughters called from California to let me know that all of them are OK. The parishioners’ gift of themselves enabled a richness of relationship with those they were helping, and they were doubly blessed – as are we when we do what Jesus taught us and take care of our brothers and sisters. – Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling is the fourth bishop of Lansing.
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little more than two years ago, Laverne was living “in a daze.” She had to move out of her mother’s house when her mother’s cocaine habit meant that Laverne’s money was disappearing. She alternated between being homeless, living in a shelter and living with her sister. She said she had no purpose and no sense of hope. But things changed for Laverne when she twice daily. In addition, she has had cerebral found the North End Soup Kitchen (NESK), a palsy since she was a baby, which affects her service of Catholic Charities. Not only did the left side. She walks with a limp, her left hand soup kitchen help feed Laverne when she was and arm are weaker than the right, and her hungry, but now she works there almost every hand is contorted. day – Monday through Friday, Still, she says, “I can do it all from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. “Things Laverne found a when I put my mind to it, and have started looking brighter, and the Lord has need,” referring to new purpose keeping up with her work at the I have more hope now,” she says. in life at the soup kitchen when it gets busy. “I have fun working there. It’s North End relaxing, too.” Soup Kitchen. Her job, as she calls it, is being in charge of clothes that have Laverne was born in Missouri in 1965 (on New Year’s Eve, she likes to tell been donated to the kitchen. She separates people), but came to Flint with her brother, them into men’s, women’s and baby’s. Then sister and mother, after her parents were di- she folds them and organizes them on a table vorced. Since she was a child, Laverne has for people to take. Three hundred pieces of had epilepsy, for which she takes medication clothing are given out each week.
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ohn Manse, director of NESK, says, “Laverne is very responsible, coming in every day even though she is a volunteer and has no obligation even to show up.” The favorite part of the job for Laverne: “Seeing the people take the clothes once they find something that will help them.” Her eyes reflect delight as she talks about that. Because her job is important to her, she doesn’t like it when clients mess up the neat piles of clothes set out on the table. A sign reminds them to please re-fold the clothes when they are finished going through them. “Some of the people will ask me to set aside certain-sized clothes for them when new donations come in. I do it if I can,” she says. She takes her job seriously, and sometimes gets upset when clients get out of hand at the kitchen. “I may forget myself and talk to them in bad language sometimes.” She has been known to have a seizure when a lot of clothes come in and she feels the responsibility to get them organized quickly, though John reminds her often that she has a whole month to go through them all. She calms down from the stress by sitting down at work and resting, or by reading a book when she gets home. Still, Manse talks with amazement at the changes in Laverne since the day she first started coming to the soup kitchen. “She was cautious, afraid, nervous. She didn’t talk to many people, didn’t even want to say hello. She was concerned about the possibility of a seizure. “Then she started arriving early, and after a few days we asked if she would like to come in and give us a hand. Once she learned what to do, she took ownership of it. When we got busy, we just asked her to take FAITH Magazine
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Your DSA dollars support ministries
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over with the clothes. Eventually, she was able to coordinate groups that came in to work in the clothing area. At first, she giggled and was shy with them, but she learned to give directions. “It worked out well. Her demeanor has changed so that now she is in command and valuable. She has gained knowledge, and aspects of her character have been brought out. She has progressed to the point that she could be a cashier at a retail outlet. That’s why she takes her job so seriously – because she recognizes the changes that have resulted within her.” Debra Carter, cook supervisor, attributes much of the change in Laverne to the encouragement she has received from other workers. “And now she is at a place where she can return what she has received from them,” Debra says. “Laverne is highspirited. She keeps us laughing. She says things to people that put a smile on their faces, especially if she notices that they are down.” When she has finished catching up with the clothes, Laverne helps serve the noon meal, packs lunches and assists with clean-up afterwards. Besides the 200-250 hot meals served on-site 365 days a year, NESK also provides nearly 500 sack lunches for two other locations five days a week. Manse says they distributed 12,207 meals in July. According to the latest survey, almost 60 percent of the meals go to the homeless, or those living in a shelter or with family and friends. Only three percent of their clients have never been homeless. NESK has provided meals for the poor, hungry, and homeless since 1941, and has been a part of Catholic Charities of Shiawassee/Genesee Counties since 1987. In addition to serving food to the poor, NESK is also charged with providing a place for volunteers to work. Manse says they range from those who want to volunteer, like members of churches, businesses,
The North End Soup Kitchen is a ministry of Catholic Charities of Shiawassee and Genesee Counties. The many Catholic Charities agencies in the Diocese of Lansing provide for a wide-ranging list of needs for their clients. For more information about Catholic Charities in your county, contact the following agencies: • Catholic Charities of Lenawee County 517.263.2191 • Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw 734.971.9781 • Outreach East (Davison) 810.653.7711 • Catholic Charities of Shiawassee and Genesee Counties 810.232.9950 • Catholic Outreach (Flint) 810.234.4693 • Catholic Charities of Livingston County 517.545.5944
and service organizations – to those who need to put in service hours, like students, honor societiy members, those on government assistance and those ordered to do so by the court. Even students in the intermediate school district come to improve their motor skills by breaking down diaper packs or lunch items. It is these groups that Laverne coordinates in the clothing area. Besides food, clothes and small household items that are donated, the kitchen also receives books and personal need items. Once every two months, clients are allowed to receive from the Personal Needs Bank, the amount being dependent upon their family size and income. The bank includes things like toothpaste, shampoo, toilet paper, soap and diapers and formula. Laverne has also helped with the food in another of the soup kitchen’s outreaches – the NESK Kids’ Camp 2005 – which is for children from 5 to 10 years old. The camp employs youth workers to
help them develop career skills. As she likes to say about her different responsibilities, “I move around like a cat. I have fun doing what I do. I like teasing with the other workers. “Before I started working here, I came every single day to eat, and to get personal needs. When John asked me to be a volunteer, it changed my life. I found a purpose in my life, of helping others. I get satisfaction from working here.” She still comes to eat every day, and indicated that finances would be tight if she didn’t. When not working at NESK, Laverne likes to watch TV, read mystery books, listen to blues music on the radio and sing in the choir at Greater Galilee Baptist Church. “I am thankful every day,” she said, “and I read my Bible almost every day, especially Matthew, Mark, Luke, and St. John. God is like a father and mother figure to me. When I have a problem, I go to the Lord. He gives me ideas for a solution, then I go do it.” She is grateful for what she has received from the soup kitchen, and says, “Volunteering is my way of giving back for what I have received. I am happy to do that.”
• Catholic Charities of Jackson 517.782.2551 • St. Vincent Catholic Charities (Lansing) 517.323.4734 • Cristo Rey Community Center (Lansing) 517. 372.4700
stries like Catholic Charities. Thank you!
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ourr story our what we did on our spring break
God’s call to serve the poor
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Megan: Yes! Antonius (Tony) Aditjandra (Coordinator): Being with friends was also my first thought. I was in a state of transition with the church; I was going to Mass but I wasn’t very active. I reluctantly went on an ASB trip the first time, but the experience wasn’t very rewarding for me. I was asked to go again this past year and I nearly backed out. It was almost like a reconciliation because the second trip gave me all the things I had wanted to experience the first time. The group that traveled to Virginia really bonded and got very close.
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ast spring, four teams of students from Michigan State University participated in Alternative Spring Break programs sponsored by St. John Student Parish. Among those were 16 students and an advisor who boarded two southbound vans headed for Buena Vista, Va., a tiny, poor town nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. There, armed only with power tools and open hearts, they volunteered nearly 700 hours in the service of two families by assisting to build Habitat for Humanity homes. For most, this Alternative Spring Break was a first experience in hands-on help of the poor. For all, it was eye-opening, spirit-lifting, life-changing. FAITH Magazine sat down with three ASB participants to ask how they were changed. FAITH: You could have taken a vacation like most college students – gone to Florida or Cancun or taken a cruise – but instead you chose to spend your break doing hard labor building a house for total strangers. Why did you do it? Megan McCullough: I went on FAITH Magazine
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the trip to make new friends. I had done the retreat in the fall and met some nice people from church there. I didn’t know anyone going on the trip but now the students I met are some of my best friends. FAITH: So your reason for going was really to get something for yourself.
I grew up in poverty – you never forget what it’s like to live poor. My parents worked hard, but they started out in a house made of plywood with dirt floors. That’s what I thought about when I was building that house – it’s not just a house, it’s someone’s home.
Tom Brennan: I was almost “forced” into going. My parents gave me two “gifts certificates” last year – one was for a retreat through St. John’s and one was for the ASB trip. They had already paid for most of it so I felt obligated to go. I didn’t look forward to it until I learned the ASB trip would be a home-building experience for Habitat. My roommate had signed up for the trip as well, though I didn’t know that until it was time to go to the organizational meeting. At that time, we looked around and thought, “This doesn’t look like much fun.” My big concern was about the people going on the trip. FAITH: The common theme for all three of you is that your reason for going was really about you. None of you said, “I always wanted to find a way to help the
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poor.” Do you think it’s possible that the yearning to have fun with friends is God’s enticement to get you to serve the poor?
with Scripture passages and songs and then some time for discussion about the day – what we got out of it.
Tony: We’ve talked about our reasons for going. Lots of college kids don’t go for the purpose of helping the poor – they just want to have fun and make new friends. But on the trip, I tried to help connect everyone to our real purpose. College students don’t necessarily see what the larger issue is until they get out there and experience it. Once I had been on an ASB trip, I realized it was important for me to do the feeding instead of being fed all the time.
FAITH: What did you learn about the two families whose homes you helped to build?
FAITH: Your ASB trip could have been just a “feel good” junket but instead you made it a spiritual journey. How did serving the poor help you grow spiritually? Tony: I put in a structured time for discussion because I wanted it to really be a faith journey, and not just a trip to build a house. I assigned two or three people to lead a prayer service each night
Diocese of Lansing student parishes To learn more about Alternative Spring Break, contact one of the diocese’s student parishes: St. Mary Student Parish, Ann Arbor 734.663.0557 St. John Student Parish, East Lansing 517.337.9778 Holy Trinity Student Parish, Ypsilanti 734.482.1400
Megan: They’re really excited about their homes and they told us all about what they planned for paint colors and curtains. There was no embarrassment about helping them or them needing help. The first time I met one of the families, I was installing their insulation. They just joined in and worked side by side with me. Tom: I was struck by their gratitude. When you see their reaction, it gives you that much more motivation to do quality work. They’re so grateful that you really want to give them what they deserve. FAITH: What did you discover about the poor?
Tony: I grew up in Indonesia, which is a Third World country. I grew up in poverty – you never forget what it’s like to live poor. My parents worked hard, but they started out in a house made of plywood with dirt floors. That’s what I thought about when I was building that house – it’s not just a house, it’s someone’s home. Megan, Tom and Tony spent spring break building houses for the poor. By Marybeth Hicks | Photography by Tom Gennara
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Tom: This was one of the biggest parts of what I got out of the trip. Before that trip, I never had a connection to the poor – never really thought much about it. This provided me with my first personal experience working directly with the poor. Before, I never really considered them the same as me – they were different, because otherwise they wouldn’t be poor. FAITH: Did you assume poor people weren’t hard-working? Tom: Yeah. Also, before the trip, none of the service I did I ever directly helped people living in poverty. What I got out of my ASB experience was a feeling that I was helping bring people up – really changing their lives. FAITH: Do you think you sent a message to those two families about their dignity – perhaps to rediscover their dignity? Tony: I think they feel like “we belong somewhere” – that there’s another part of the world that cares about them. It’s not just us who came from a distance, but even people around the area were generous toward us when we told them what we were doing. Tom: Without a doubt, they were touched in a very deep, emotional way. I’d say we gave them some confidence because we showed them they have a connection to us, which was really affirming for them. Megan: I’m sure I have no idea how much of an impact I had, but I’m ready to sign up for another trip. It was totally worth it.
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my miracle c to give drink to the thirsty how Deb Buzzy and her parish brought clean water to Uganda
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r. Deb Buzzy’s eyes brighten with tears when she talks about the children drinking filthy water from the river in the village of Kasali in Uganda. “When we saw the water, oh my Lord have mercy. It was filthy, with bugs in it. There were young children and young men and women scooping up this water in big cans that looked like gasoline cans. They were carrying it home on bikes or on their shoulders. The water was so filthy I couldn’t get over it.” Deb didn’t “get over it.” She decided she and her parish, “Old” St. Patrick’s in Ann Arbor, had to do something about it.
Deb had gone to Africa as a result of another parish project. In 2001, Fr. Terry Dumas, the pastor of Old St. Pat’s, had gone on sabbatical. Fr. Robert, a member of the Ugandan priest exchange program, came to fill in. Deb remembers, “The parish fell in love with him, and when he told us about his people and his country and how water was so important and what it was like for the poor people, we decided we would do the YAFE (Yerya Action for Empowerment) project, which was a microeconomic program. We pledged three years of collecting $6,000 a year to send over there. “The premise is this: ‘I borrow two or three hundred dollars to start my own transistor radio shop or bicycle repair shop or sewing shop. I then pay it back at 1 percent interest.’ YAFE teaches them how to keep their books. We started out with 32 families and then grew to 76 families. In the first year, everyone paid back the money FAITH Magazine
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January/February 2006
“Seven adults and three children went to Uganda ... The people there were impressed that we brought our children; they took it as a sign of trust in their culture that we would bring our children there.”
except for one family, and that was because the mother died of AIDS and left the 14-yearold daughter with six other children to take care of. Fr. Terry made arrangements to pay that daughter’s Dr. Deb Buzzy and her son, Jordan, in Uganda. school fees so YAFE committee from Old St. Pat’s. she wouldn’t have to quit school. “Seven adults and three children “Because we had done this projwent to Uganda – the children were ect, we decided we were all going 10,12 and 13. The people there to go over and see what had grown were impressed that we brought our from the seeds we had sown in the children; they took it as a sign of hearts of the Yerya parish and the trust in their culture that we would people there.” bring our children there.” Deb traveled to Yerya, in the As they toured the country and Diocese of Fort Portal, Uganda with visited the businesses that had been a group of her fellow parishioners. funded by YAFE, Deb was struck It included Fr. Terry, his son, two by the warmth and hospitality the of his grandchildren, Deb’s son Ugandans showed them: Jordan and other members of the By Elizabeth Solsburg | Photography by Christine Jones
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For more information on clean water and other international charity needs, contact Catholic Relief Services at www.catholic relief.org.
Deb developed warm friendships with villagers in Uganda.
“When we arrived in Fort Portal, they had a welcoming dinner for us. In their culture, they have about six pet names they use as terms of affection. There might be 10 Apoulis in the room, but everyone understands about whom they’re speaking. To be accepted into the Watoro tribe, we were named by the chief in a formal naming ceremony. My name is Amawi, which means ‘the wise.’ My son is Apouli, which means ‘first-born son.’ “We went to a lot of Masses there. Every culture brings its own focus to Mass – in Uganda, it’s joyous. Lots of singing and dancing. It’s nothing to see them dance up the aisle to receive the Eucharist and dance back down the aisle. They are so happy to receive the Lord. It was such a joyful thing, it was humbling to watch.” Deb and her fellow travelers were also very impressed by how well the microeconomic project was working, but concerned about the drinking water they saw. “The water was so filthy ... when we came back and gave our presentation to Old St. Pat’s, I said I thought we definitely needed to do a water project. As far as I was concerned, this was of the utmost importance. Many chil-
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dren there die of typhoid and malaria. Typhoid is in the water, and mosquitoes breed near stagnant water. They try to boil the water, but children, being impetuous, and thirsty – drink it. “Coincidentally, Paul McGuire of our parish said an ad hoc committee had already formed and was beginning to think about the idea of a well project.” That ad hoc committed was formed by Ray and Jude Huetteman, who invited Janet and Dee Elgas, Paul and Christie McGuire, Kathy Biess, Alice Schmitter, Fr. Terry and Deb to join them in discussing the YAFE project and figuring out what else they could do to help the people of Yerya. “We contacted Catholic Relief Services – and we should be very proud of that organization. They connected us with the correct people and there was a water project through the Diocese of Ft. Portal (Health through Water and Sanitation or HEWASA). They told us that to put in 20 wells would
cost $36,500, so we went to work. We aimed for $40,000 to account for cost growth. “We raised $46,200 in 10 weeks. For such a small parish, they have such big hearts.” On Sept. 18, Bishop Robert Muhiirwa from the Diocese of Fort Portal came to dinner at Deb’s house to meet the people of Old St. Pat’s who’d been so instrumental in bringing clean water to his people. As the committee watched and exclaimed softly, the bishop showed a videotape of a few of the 20 wells that had been dug with money donated by the parish. As the pictures of clean water gushing from spigots flashed across the screen, the voices of Ugandans repeated, “Thank you to Old St. Patrick Parish.” In Deb’s living room, tears of joy flowed freely.
Deb apperciates the blessing of clean, cool water.
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spiritual s p piritual fit Franciscan spirituality how to become the Good News of Jesus Christ s p i r i t u a l
f i t n e s ss p i r i t u a l
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he campus students were waiting for a priest. I was a graduate student in biochemistry at the time, and some friends of mine talked me into going to the campus Mass. They kept talking about a Franciscan priest who was great with the college students. To my surprise, a big heavy-set man came in. He was dressed in a brown robe with a rope around his waist and a large rosary dangling from his side. Over the months that followed, I got to know Fr. John. He was man of faith and simplicity who deeply cared for us students.
Before long, he had a group of us going out to visit the Franciscan monastery for retreat. He told us all about Jesus and St. Francis, and the great ways we could help the poor. It was my first introduction to St. Francis and Franciscan spirituality. Here was a man who lived the Gospel in a radical way. How refreshing! I came to understand that St. Francis was once a
Francis found Jesus in the poor, and he devoted himself to serving them and being poor with them. FAITH Magazine
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worldly and enthusiastic young and he devoted himself to servman who dreamed of being a great ing them and being poor with knight. God showed him another them. That is what the Gospel way. When St. Francis opened his called him to do. When others heart to Jesus, Jesus ignited the started to follow his way of life, flame of love within him. Francis Francis made clear that their “rule” used to spend long hours just praywas to follow the Gospel. All the ing, “My God and my all!” He was members of God’s creation were opening and offering his heart to “brother and sister” to him. In God. He wanted nothing more than many ways, Franciscan spirituality to imitate Jesus in all things. He is Gospel spirituality, for it centers renounced his possessions, and got on Jesus Christ and on living as in trouble with his own father for Jesus taught us. It means embracgiving away his clothes and money. ing the cross – “Whoever wants to His father demanded them back, be my disciple must deny his very and wanted Francis to self, take up his cross compromise his new When St. Francis each day and follow in love of Jesus and the my steps.” (Luke 9:23) It opened his heart Gospel. Francis would to Jesus, Jesus means self-renunciahave none of that, and ignited the flame tion – “Unless the grain instead gave all his of love within him. of wheat falls to the clothes back to his faground and dies, it reFrancis used to ther – the clothes off his spend long hours mains but a grain, but body. This encounter if it dies, it produces just praying, “My happened in the public God and my all!” much fruit.” (John 12:24) square for all to see. It means being little He was opening Jesus said to the – “Unless you become and offering his rich man, “Go and like a little child you heart to God. sell all you have and cannot enter the kinggive to the poor, then come and dom of heaven.” (Matt 18:3) It means follow me.” The rich man walked being a servant of others – “The away sadly because he had many greatest among you are those who possessions. But Francis overcame serve the needs of the rest.” (Mark 10: this great obstacle with which we 44) It means love – “My commandment to you is love one another as all struggle – our love of material I have loved you.” (John 15:12) It is possessions – and stood stripped a spirituality that is familiar to all of all things before God. The local bishop embraced him, and Francis Christians because it so well echoes the Gospel. It is a bridge to all embarked on a new journey of people of good will, for charity and faith to rebuild the church. goodness spring from its steps. Francis found Jesus in the poor,
January/February 2006
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tness ness Spiritual Exercise For our spiritual exercise this month, we will pray to be the Good News of Jesus Christ. We will need charity to feed the hungry and give drink to the thirsty. Notice those are actions – the spirit of charity moves us to act and live as Jesus did. Begin this month’s exercise by meditating for about 15 minutes on the prayer of St. Francis. I have broken up the first part of the prayer to help with the meditation:
Prayer of St. Francis Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. How was Jesus an “instrument of peace?” (cf John 20) When have I felt God’s peace come to me? Did reconciliation have a role in bringing me peace? Who has been an “instrument of peace” in my life? What do I need to change to be more peaceful? Where there is hatred, let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Have I ever been hurt by another’s words or actions? Am I ready to forgive him? When have I experienced love and pardon? How can I sow love and pardon? When did Jesus sow love and pardon? Look at a crucifix and pray this part of the prayer again. Where there is doubt, faith. When have I been in situations where the Catholic faith was challenged or misrepresented? What did I do? How did I feel? When have I seen or experienced lies or deceit? When have I misrepresented situations, or people?
Where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled, as to console. To be understood, as to understand. To be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen.
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T. Gennara
Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. And where there is sadness, joy. What dark times have I experienced? What was it like to receive hope and light? What situations of darkness and despair did Jesus face? How did Jesus bring hope to the hopeless and light to those who lived in the shadow of darkness?
Now that we have prayed this prayer, we must put our prayer into action. Otherwise it is merely lip service. That is one of the big steps St. Francis took. He knew
what the Lord was calling him to do – and out of his love for the Lord, he did it. When we put our prayers into action, we’ll experience spiritual growth. There are people in our own communities who need food, shelter and clothing. Reach out to them. Many more are hungry for love, kindness and company. Our world can be a lonely place. Think of those closest to you – in your family, in your neighborhood, in your church community. Go and feed their hunger and thirst. You are God’s bread and water. – Fr. Bill Ashbaugh
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l o c a l
n e w s
A year in India
World Youth Day
Beth Montgomery, a parishioner at St. Thomas Parish in Ann Arbor, is spending a year in India, working with the Missionaries of Charity, Mother Teresa’s order. Beth writes, “This past year, my senior year at U of M, I got involved with a young-adult group called Generation Christ. This group was headed up by Father Bob Roggenbuck, who was to become a close friend. I had been struggling to defend my Catholic faith for many years, and it was largely through this group that I came to fully embrace the Catholic faith.” Beth will be sending FAITH short articles during her mission.
Members of St. John Parish in Hartland had a serendipitous loss on their trip to World Youth Day. After traveling on to Cologne, they gathered to watch Pope Benedict’s arrival, but couldn’t see well and were really disappointed. The next day, one of their group lost his camera. They had just reported the loss and were leaving the police station when they noticed a commotion. They asked a nearby police officer what was happening and he said the pope was coming. About 15 minutes later the pope came by, waved at them, and drove on. They were within 20 feet of him and were really excited about it. Members of the group were amazed at how the loss of the camera could lead to a great blessing.
Catholic Foresters Kali Thelen won a tuition reimbursement of $250 from the Catholic Order of Foresters in a random drawing of Catholic school students. The COF, a fraternal insurance society, awards more than $150,000 annually in scholarships, tuition assistance and educational awards.
At the Crossroads for the unborn
DisAbility Mass at St. Mary Cathedral A celebration of every ability St. Mary Cathedral hosted a celebration of persons with physical and mental disabilities at the DisAbility Mass on October 23. In the homily, Bishop Mengeling spoke of the wonderful gift that the disabled person is to the Christian community: “We learn from them that deep within us we all have gifts and qualities that are often ignored.” Students from the Owosso religious special education program presented the offering and gifts. Families traveled to Lansing for the special service, which was followed by a dinner. -- Theresa McWilliams-Wessels FAITH Magazine
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Nate Harburg of Christ the King Parish in Ann Arbor recently participated in the Crossroads walk. Crossroads began in 1995 when a group of students decided to follow Pope John Paul II’s mandate to build a culture of life. They walked from San Francisco to Washington D.C. in 11 weeks, offering prayers and sacrifices for an end to legalized abortion. On Aug. 6, Nate completed the eleventh annual Crossroads walk in Washington, D.C.
40 Years of the Michigan Catholic Conference Michigan Catholic Conference celebrated 40 years of the Conference’s advocacy by publishing A Vision, A Voice, A Presence: A History of the First Forty Years of the Michigan Catholic Conference, a history book of the organization.
January/February 2006
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c o m m u n i t y
things to do Joseph’s Family is a grief recovery program incorporating the Catholic faith for adults suffering loss due to death. It is a 5-week series designed for individuals who want peer group support through their grieving process. Meetings will be held consecutive Sundays Jan. 15-Feb. 12, 1:30-3:30 p.m., at St. Joseph Parish in Dexter. No charge, but registration is required. Call Jolene at Catholic Social Services, 734.971.9781.
january/february readings
Sr. Nancy Murray, OP will portray St. Catherine of Siena in a three-act performance at St. John Student Parish in East Lansing on Fri., Jan. 20 at 7 p.m. All are welcome.
Sunday, January 15 Second Sunday in Ordinary Time 1 Sam 3:3b-10,19 Ps 40:2,4,7-10 1 Cor 6:13c-15a,17-20 John 1:35-42
Worldwide Marriage Encounter will be celebrating World Marriage Day at two locations in the Diocese of Lansing during the month of February. Mass and a renewal of vows will be held Feb. 11, 4:30 p.m. at Christ the King Church in Ann Arbor, followed by a dinner dance at Fox Hills Banquet Center. Call 734.434.7389 or e-mail len@acd.net to make reservations. On Sat., Feb. 25, St. Mary Cathedral will host a Mass and vow renewal, followed by a dinner dance at the Lansing Radisson. Mass time is 5 p.m. Call 517.327.0165 or e-mail dcastilhos@comcast.net to make reservations.
Sunday, January 1 Octave of Christmas: The Blessed Virgin Mary, The Mother of God Num 6:22-27 Ps 67:2-3,5-6,8 Gal 4:4-7 Luke 2:16-21 Sunday, January 8 The Epiphany of the Lord Isa 60:1-6 Ps 72:2,7-8,10-13 Eph 3:2-3a,5-6 Matt 2:1-12
DuKette Catholic School, Flint, is looking for parishioners interested in joining the school finance committee. Call Mrs. Negrinelli at 810.785.4743 if you are interested. DuKette Catholic School, Flint, is planning a reunion in 2006. If you or anyone you know graduated from DuKette since 1980, please call 810.785.4743 with contact information. Put Out Into the Deep IV, the fourth annual conference for men, will be held Sat., March 25 at University of Detroit Mercy, Calihan Hall. Speakers include Peter week Catholic Bible study. There is an introductory session Thurs., Jan. 5 and sessions begin Jan. 12. Call Marcia at 810.227.5201 for more information.
january/february café events Feed your soul at St. Patrick Parish, Brighton during a 6-
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St. John the Evangelist Book Club, Fenton, welcomes everyone to the following discussions: Tues., Jan. 10, 7-9 p.m., Fire Within: Teresa of Avila and John of the Cross and the Gospel on Prayer by Thomas Dubay.
Sunday, January 22 Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Jonah 3:1-5,10 Ps 25:4-9 1 Cor 7:29-31 Mark 1:14-20
Sunday, February 12 Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Lev 13:1-2,44-46 Ps 32:1-2,5,11 1 Cor 10:31-11:1 Mark 1:40-45
Sunday, January 29 Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time Deut 18:15-20 Ps 95:1-2,6-9 1 Cor 7:32-35 Mark 1:21-28
Sunday, February 19 Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time Isa 43:18-19,21-22,24b-25 Ps 41:2-5,13-14 2 Cor 1:18-22 Mark 2:1-12
Sunday, February 5 Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time Job 7:1-4,6-7 Ps 147:1-6 1 Cor 9:16-19,22-23 Mark 1:29-39
Sunday, February 26 Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time Hos 2:16b,17b,21-22 Ps 103:1-4,8,10,12-13 2 Cor 3:1b-6 Mark 2:18-22
Herbeck, Alex Jones, Fr. John Riccardo and Senator Rick Santorum. Call 734.459.9558 or e-mail www.mensfellowship.com for more information.
15 and March 10-12 in Detroit; Jan. 27-29 and March 24-26 in Lansing. Call 800.470.2230 for more information.
Bereavement Support Groups, for those who have experienced a loss, are held in Lansing through a partnership of St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery and St. Vincent Catholic Charities. The next series begins April 19. For more information or to register, call 517.342.2522 or 517.484.2500. Space is limited. Retrouvaille, for those whose marriages are breaking their hearts, has weekends scheduled Jan. 13Thurs Feb. 9, 7-9 p.m., Long Loneliness by Dorothy Day. Thurs., March 9, 7-9 p.m., Theology of the Body for Beginners: A Basic Introduction to Pope John Paul II’s Sexual Revolution by Christopher West. Call 810.629.2251 for more information. Beginning in January, the Ladies of St. Mary, Chelsea will be sponsoring an inter-faith Bible
A men’s Cursillo will take place March 9-12 and a women’s Cursillo March 23-26. Both will be held at Camp Dainava, near Manchester. If you are 17 and older, and a practicing Catholic who is looking for a better understanding and appreciation of our Catholic faith, contact Maria Jaimez 517.265.2720, Gene Myers 810.234.3693, Mary Kay Howard 517.784.1353, or Msgr. Sy Fedewa 989.587.4379 or visit www.natl-cursillo.org/lansing. study. For more information call Cathy at 734.475.8164. We will be using Beth Moore’s videos and the topic will be The Patriarchs. Father Ed Farrell will lead a Lenten parish mission at St. Mary Star of the Sea Parish, Jackson, March 5-8. The mission will focus on the Trinity and will close with a eucharistic celebration on Wednesday evening. All events begin at 7p.m. Call 517.784.7184.
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spec
A Coordinating Commission has been appointed by Bishop Mengeling to assess the information presented during Diocesan Study Days held in the fall of 2005. Along with the statistics, demographics, and projections, the Commission will consider the feedback from priests, pastoral coordinators, deacons, ecclesial lay ministers, and diocesan central office staff who discussed the issues and offered solutions during the Study Days. Based on their extensive in-depth study, the Commission will make the necessary recommendations to satisfy the pastoral and sacramental needs of the diocese. Appointed members include:
s My dear brothers and sister g, sin of the Diocese of Lan we initiThe pastoral planning process re The es. tinu ated with VOICES con red face sur e are two issues that hav first is the number of clergy peatedly during VOICES. The is the location of our and where they serve. The second tion within our diocese. parishes and the shifting popula e met with the priests, Based on those concerns, I hav and diocesan central office deacons, lay ecclesial ministers we need to take in order to ministers to discuss what steps address these issues. s have led me to appoint The results of these discussion study the structures and a coordinating commission to committed to accepting needs of all of our parishes. I am mission and I know its the recommendations of this com yerfully discern what is best members will carefully and pra for all of us. members of that commisI ask all of you to pray for the our lay ecclesial ministers sion, our priests and deacons, as we begin this very and religious sisters, and for me future for the Diocese of important task of envisioning the Lansing. Yours in Jesus Our Lord, + Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling Bishop of Lansing
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Diocese of Lansing n u m b e r s
parishes are served by: • 86 active diocesan priests • 12 religious order priests • 11 priests ordained in other dioceses • 8 pastoral coordinators (with a sacramental minister) • 76 permanent deacons • 445 lay ministers
T
he Diocese of Lansing is facing two issues: a clergy shortage along with shifting populations. This report from the bishop will explain the situation, answer common questions, consider options and outline the decision-making process. Is there a clergy shortage in the Diocese of Lansing? If you only look at the numbers, the answer is “yes,” because we don’t have enough priests to cover our existing 97 faith communities. Already, there are eight parishes without resident priests. We’ve projected Catholic population demographics through 2020 in the diocese. If we look at the overall makeup of the diocese and its shifting demographics, we see that we’ll need to make some changes in order best to serve our people with the projected number of clergy. How will the shortage affect my parish? Whether the clergy shortage will affect your parish will depend on what’s going on in your communi-
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ecial c report p Reverend John Byers – Pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Lansing | Deacon Jim Corder – Business Mgr, CYM at Holy Redeemer Parish, Burton | William Devine – Principal, St John the Evangelist Parish, Jackson | Patrick Gribben – Member of St Jude Parish, DeWitt; Diocesan Pastoral Council Member | Deacon Vincent Guarnaccia – RCIA Director/Pastoral Ministry at St Martha Parish, Okemos | Marinell High – DRE at St Joseph Parish, Dexter; Diocesan Pastoral Council Member | Reverend David Howell – Pastor of St Mary Magdalen r e p o r t
f r o m
Parish, Brighton; Diocesan Pastoral Council Chair | Reverend Charles Irvin – Founding editor of FAITH Magazine | Vern Johnson – Member St Thomas Aquinas Parish, East Lansing; Diocesan Finance Council Member | Reverend Timothy MacDonald – Pastor of Most Holy Trinity Parish, Fowler | Sister Joan May, SSJ – Pastoral Coordinator of St Mark, Goodrich | Reverend Robert McGraw – Pastor of Queen of the Miraculous Medal Parish, Jackson; Diocesan Presbyteral Council Chair | Pattie Scherer – Former RCIA and Adult Formation Director at t h e
b i s h o p
Diocese of Lansing
ty. Is your parish financially viable? Can it maintain itself? Is the population in your area decreasing? What is the average Mass attendance at your parish, compared with its capacity? Are there other nearby parishes that could serve the needs of the people in your area? Do your fellow parishioners live near the parish or does Parish closures your parish community priin the diocese marily comprise commuters? are likely to be All of these factors may have a painful reality. an impact on potential parish Specific closures restructuring.
will depend on many factors.
n u m b e r s
priests affiliated with the Diocese of Lansing.
Will parishes be closed due to the clergy shortage? Parish closures in the diocese are likely to be a painful reality. Specific closures will depend on many factors. A commission will make recommendations to the bishop and the bishop will make the ultimate decision.
priests ordained for the Diocese of Lansing.
Will the diocese need to create new parishes? Yes. Based on the shifting population within the diocese, parishes need to be built where the people are. The diocese owns property in growing areas and will need to build new parishes and redistribute clergy to those areas.
• 16 active diocesan priests serve in non-parochial positions.
What criteria will determine which parishes stay open and which ones close? By summer of 2006, the criteria will be determined by a coordinating commission that has
• 86 active diocesan priests serve in our parishes.
• 8 active diocesan priests serve outside the diocese. • 37 retired priests.
How many priests are going to retire? Of the 86 currently active diocesan priests – • 16 or 17 of them are expected to retire by 2010. • This will leave a total of 69 or 70 active diocesan priests. By 2010 – These 69 or 70 priests expect 7 newly ordained priests to join them in parish ministry. Therefore, we forecast a total of 76 or 77 active diocesan priests available to serve 97 diocesan communities by the year 2010.
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been appointed by Bishop Mengeling. Some constituencies within the diocese have already been gathered to determine criteria for the commission’s discussions. Will parishioners have input? Each region of the diocese will look at parish structures. Parish leadership will be consulted, including parish councils and staffs. Parishioner input is critical. The commission will provide a process by which the voices of our people will be heard. What is the decision-making process for parish restructuring? The coordinating commission will analyze the data, determine the principles by which parish structures will be reviewed and make recommendations to the bishop. Bishop Mengeling has the sole responsibility for the decision, but has made a commitment to follow the recommendations of the commission. The bishop of a diocese, in both church and civil law, is ultimately responsible for parishes and parish property. What will happen to a parish if it closes: the people, the building, the records? Parish boundaries will be redrawn and neighboring parishes will be designated for the care of souls. Options for closed churches include becoming a mission of another parish, being part of a cluster, becoming a funeral/wedding chapel, or being sold. Under canon law, the assets of a closed parish are the responsibility of the bishop. If a parish closes outright, the records will be transferred to the diocesan archives. If a parish merges with another parish, the records will go to the new parish. Any objects in the church that have been blessed must come back to the diocese or be distributed to another church. Why are there priests in diocesan offices, retreat centers, schools, hospitals, outside of the diocese in assignments – if we need them in parishes? A priestly presence in many of these ministries has been a priority and will be part of what the commission reviews. The presence of a priest in the high schools, for example, encour-
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High/Low per region
GeneseeOwosso
+
Genesee County
Clinton County
+
49%
+
8%
Shiawassee County
34%
Bath Twp.
-
1%
Lansing
Flint
38%
5%
Lansing
10%
Population Growth Forecast for the 10 counties of the Diocese of Lansing through 2020
Fenton/ Fenton Twp.
Livingston
+
Washtenaw 12%
0%
24%
8%
Hillsdale County
Lenawee County
ages priestly vocations and reinforces the Catholic identity of our Catholic high schools. Also, not all priests are called to parish ministry, and Bishop Mengeling discerns the spiritual needs of his priests as well as the needs of the parishes.
What are some alternative parish structures?
1
• Priests as sacramental ministers in parishes administered by deacons or lay ministers. Parishes can be administered by a lay ecclesial minister or a deacon. These pastoral associates take care of all the day-to-day business and pastoral needs of their parishes, relying on a priest to provide Sunday Masses, confessions and other sacraments. • Parish clusters. More than one parish is served by the same pastor. He may either divide his time on Sundays in order to say Mass at both parishes, or may ask a retired priest to help him.
3
• Mission parishes. Mission parishes are like satellites of a parish. The pastor of the main parish serves as the pastor of the mission parish as well. Services such as religious education, marriage preparation, etc. are often provided through the main parish only.
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Diocese of Lansing n u m b e r s
Since 1992, 97 men and women have been formally commissioned as lay ecclesial ministers by the bishop. Currently, 60 of them are serving in parishes or church-related positions. Men and women fulfilling requirements for the diocesan ministry formation program currently number approximately 10 each year. Therefore, by 2015, there is the potential for an additional 100 lay ministers.
123%
+
102%
+
Lenawee
Somerset Twp.
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+
Saline
23%
Washtenaw County
Hudson
Hartland Twp.
27%
Jackson County
FAITH Magazine
18%
Jackson
Grass Lake Twp.
Dexter
+
26%
+
Livingston County
+
Eaton County
Howell
52%
Ingham County
50%
2%
26%
-
Jackson
13%
Can the diocese consider ordaining women and married men to solve the problem? Doesn’t the diocese already have a married priest in active service? The only limitations on this process are those imposed by the teaching magisterium of the church. The diocese does have a married priest in service, but this can only occur in exceptional circumstances. A married, ordained clergyman who converts to Catholicism can petition for holy orders and the bishop may choose to ask for permission to confer them. The synod of Based on the bishops recently reaffirmed shifting population the church’s commitment to within the diocese, priestly celibacy and thereparishes need to fore, Bishop Mengeling has no be built where the authority to ordain women or people are. married men. What about deacons? Deacons can celebrate some sacraments – they can witness marriages outside Mass, baptize and preside at funerals outside Mass. Deacons also assist during Mass by preaching and administering the cup at Communion. However, deacons cannot celebrate Mass, hear confessions, nor administer the sacrament of the sick. What are the priests doing that other people
January/February 2006
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a closer look: Mass attendance at parishes in 3 cities
What are other dioceses doing to address this problem? Is the Diocese of Lansing faring better or worse? We are committed to addressing this issue before it becomes critical. We are engaging in a deliberate, ongoing and prayerful process that will involve full participation by the laity and the clergy. In looking at the experiences of some other dioceses, we are hopeful to learn how to do this in a way that minimizes the pain and loss related to parish closures.
Priests’ 10-year forecast (2006-2015) Retirements Retirements (based on clergy survey)
(based on retirement at 67 years)
Ordinations
3 1 2 2 8 1 0 1 2 4 24
11 2 2 1 1 4 1 2 5 6 35
0 1 1 1 4 unknown unknown unknown unknown unknown 7
2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 TOTALS
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Age distribution of active diocesan priests:
L a n s i n g
Church seating capacity
n u m b e r s
Parish
can do instead? Priests’ duties are sacramental, pastoral, and administrative – in that order. Unfortunately, administrative duties can overwhelm a pastor’s time. Priests’ duties Shifting many of those tasks are sacramento qualified lay professionals tal, pastoral, and is likely to increase. Lay eccleadministrative – in sial ministers already provide that order. Unfor- religious education and pastotunately, adminral ministry in many parishes, istrative duties and this vocation should be can overwhelm a encouraged. Those who may pastor’s time. fill these pastoral roles will need the necessary education and formation in order to serve a parish’s needs.
No. of people per weekend
Diocese of Lansing
o f
Average Mass attendance
D i o c e s e
No. of weekend Masses
St Francis of Assisi Parish, Ann Arbor | Alberto Vasquez – Education Commission Chair at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Flint | Sister Rita Wenzlick, OP – Director, Diocesan Office of Pastoral Planning | Sharon Wimple – Member of St Elizabeth Parish, Tecumseh; Diocesan Pastoral Council Member | Melinda Ziegler – Pastoral Minister/RCIA Director at St Anthony Parish, Hillsdale EX-OFFICIO: Msgr Richard Groshek – Vicar General and pastor of St Pius X Parish, Flint | Msgr Michael Murphy – Moderator of the Curia | Msgr Steve Raica – Chancellor
City of Flint based on 2003 Biennial Census
are 50+ years of age. • 37% are 49 years of age or younger. Age distribution of active permanent deacons:
St. Pius X
971
4
243
625
St. Mary
243
3
81
600
St. Matthew
610
3
203
700
St. Michael
436
3
145
1,000
St. Leo
n/a
3
St. Luke
165
1
165
1,025
77
333
Sacred Heart
77
1
St. Agnes
205
3
68
350
St. John Vianney
827
4
207
600
Holy Rosary
960
3
320
800
4,494
28
Totals Average Mass Attendance
are 68+ years of age. • 63% are 50-67 years of age.
500
161
City of Jackson based on 2003 Biennial Census St. John the Evangelist St. Joseph the Worker
1,730
6
288
600
438
3
146
700
1,945
7
278
850
• 4% are 49 years of age and younger.
Queen of the Miraculous Medal St. Stanislaus Kostka
226
3
75
950
Age distribution of active lay ecclesial ministers:
St. Mary Star of the Sea
884
3
295
950
5,223
22
Totals Average Mass Attendance
237
City of Lansing based on 2003 Biennial Census are 50+ years of age.
St. Mary Cathedral
956
4
239
900
St. Casimir
770
4
193
600
Holy Cross
690
3
230
400
1,289
5
258
575
• 25% are 3649 years of age.
Immaculate Heart of Mary Resurrection
886
5
177
450
• 10% are 35 years of age and younger.
St. Therese of Lisieux
689
3
230
565
5,280
24
Totals Average Mass Attendance
280
12/7/05 3:04:39 PM
For parish information and resources for returning Catholics: www.welcomehomesunday.com – or for a one-on-one conversation, call 1.877.82.FAITH.
209 Seymour Ave. Lansing, MI 48933 Online:
www.DioceseofLansing.org www.FAITHmag.com
The Outreach Mass: Sundays On TV:
Flint: Lansing:
FOX 66 10 a.m. WHTV, UPN 18 10 a.m. WLAJ, ABC 53 at 6 a.m.
On Radio: Mass, 11 a.m. on WJIM 1240 AM
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