February 2002

ts quite an experience to look through someone clses eyes. All the things we take so easily for granted take on a new appearance. Thmgs that we always knew were there but never paid much attention to suddenly move from the background to the forefront. Seeing through someone clses eyes may even give us the opportunity to see ourselves in entirely new ways. In 1988 I was fortunate enough to serve as sponsor for a young man who had felt the call to join the Catholic Church. He had already been baptized in another Chrisuan tradition, and so was considered a candidate. Through the course of 1988 and early 1989, I JOUrneyed wuh him as his sponsor and stood with him as he made his profession of fa1th and was confirmed at the Easter Vig1l, 1989. What an experience that year was for me! Bcmg a cradle Catholic seemg faith through the eyes of someone who did not grow up in the Church is quite a challenge. As much as I thought of myself as a relauvely well-informed Being a cradle Catltolic believer, more thnn a few times I found myself answenng his questions with, "I'm not sure why seeing faitlt tltrouglt the we believe that." Thank goodness for the other sponsors and factlitators who were a pnrt of the eyes of someone wlw did not Rite of Chnsuan lnitiauon of Adults - the RCIA. The experience of seeing faith through the grow up in dte Church was eyes of the candidnte whom I sponsored helped me to understand just how precious this gift is quite a dtallcngc for me that man} of us receive when we are baptized as infants. There is a nchness and a depth of curiosity that comes from appropnating fnith as an adult. The opportunity to serve as an RCIA sponsor opened my eyes and created in me a new hunger for God. It was also, mterestingly enough, one of the expencnces that led to the re-awakening of my interest in priesthood. But thats a d1fferent story I have since been graced to serve as sponsor for others who have come seekmg to join the Church Now, as a pastor, I have the very special honor of accompanying people on their faith journey and celebrating with them the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and Eucharist. There is no more thrilling or movmg liturgy in the Churchs life than the Easter Vigil. The sounds, smells, look and feel of that liturgy make u unique and powerful. Deacon Warren Hecht of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Ann Arbor was one such person who came to Christian faith later in life. As with each candidate or : catechumen (those who are to be baptized), Warrens story is a beauufultestament about Gods never-ending love made present in the people and events of our lives. God also works through children. Such was the case for Frank and Wanda Rex, whose life m the Church was encouraged by Wandas son Taff and his journey to a new life of faith. Both Bishop Mengeling and Bishop PoVtsh reflect on the renewed RCIA as one of the greatest gifts of the Second Vatican Council. We also continue our coverage of the war m Afghanistan and its tmpact on the people of our diocese, from the perspective of some of the men and women who serve in the mihtary and their families who remain behind. All this and more await as our journey in FAITH continues. -Fr. Dwight Ewp Is Editor In Chief or

.j ' Âˇ

FAint Magazine and Pastor

or the Catholic Community or St. jude, DeWitt.

Bccom1ng

Cathol ic

rnntr>nts From the Bishop

Following the Son

Special: A Nation at War

Catholic Schools Week

Becoming a Catholic used to mean going through "instruction" with the parish priest. Today's RCIA seems new but really hearkens back to the early Christians.

It's usually the parents who guide their children into the faith. But Frank and Wanda Rex followed their son into the Church where, they say, no one gets left out.

Michigan National Guard Col. l.anczy and his family discuss 9/ 1 1 22

FAITH's Kathy Funk is on assignment again. This time it's first grade at St. Robert School for Catholic Schools Week.

Bishop Carl F. Mangellng

Patricia Majher

Parishes Reach Out 25

How a Brighton Pilot's Family Copes 24

Kathy Funk

1 Columns In the Know with Fr. Joe Fr. Joseph Krupp

The Journey Dr. Cathleen McGreal

Work Life

Michael Sullivan

Spiritual Fitness Fr. Bill Ashbaugh

Last Word Bishop Kenneth Povish 31

Cover Ann Arbor's Deacon Warren Hecht was born Jewish. Find out how he came to be a Catholic deacon.

faith Most Reverend Carl F. Mengcling

letters

PUBUSHEA

Rev Charles Irvin FOUNDING ED noR

,..,..rv

Volume 3 : Issue 2 2002

Send your letters to: Edllor, FAITH Magazine 300 W.OIIawa Lansing, Ml48933 or via e-mall letters(jfalthmeg.com

Rev Dwight Ezop EDnoR IH CHIEF

Patrick M O'Brien

Your Turn - Tell Us What You Think

MANAGING EDITOR/CREATlVE DIRECTOR

It was intcn.'Strng to n01e tile amrnt Wcstcm pcrspccti\'t: concmnng tile ho(y ntystc1y (sacrament) of baptism witlwur including the reception of c/uismation (confirmation) and Ho(y Euch01ist, as in the Byzantine dum:h. TI1c articlcs pmmptcd me to I'C\' it'W some basic Eastern Catholic Catechism ... Se~ipturc tells us that "no on.: can enter tile hinge/om of God witl10ut being IJOm of water and Spilit" q,~,. J 5!, teaching the necessity ofbaptism; but duist also says, "unless you cat tile jlesl! of tile Son of Man and d1inl1 His blood, you do notl!ave life within you... a·~·~ 6:511 Both baptism and Eucharist arc equally neccssa1y for salva-

Kathy Funk ASSISTANT EDnoR

Alton Pclowski CREATlVE A EDITORIAL ASSISfAHT ftBMASTER

jillanejob SUBSCRIPTIONS/SECRETARY

Evelyn Weitzel SUBSCRIPTIONS

Michael Boyagian INTERN

Rev. Wilham Ashbaugh Den Warren Hecht Elizabeth johnson Rev joseph Krupp Robin Lynch Patricia Majher Dr. Cathleen McGreal jenmfer Niester Erin Oakley lillah Olson Most Rev. Kenneth j Povish Rita Thiron

Pope Innocent lwrolt. · "... For unless (infants) cat the flesh of the Son of Man and clrinh His blood, they will not l1m·c life in them." ~~( JO.S! ... TI1is IS why the whole dnurll (East and \Vest), immediately conununicat~ eel infants who lwd been baptized. Many Eastem Catholic Omrchcs continue thiS today. Titc \Vcstcm dnurh stopped communicating mfants in the 12th century because infants could not n:cci\'e tl1e Boc(y of Quist under tl1c fonn of brcacL

!JOlt

Fr. David Hannes, Pastor, St. Mldleel Elyunllne Catholic: Chun:h, Flushing

Dear Elizabeth johnson: Got a llic/1 out of your "saint of the

month" quiz. {]anua~y 2002). No, I laugltccl out loud at the choices in Qucst1on #-f. ... Also, I tahc litis OPJJOrtunity to congrat· ulatc this c/wccsc for its wealth of publicatwns. In '95 I came over from Grand Rapids, afaith-lich (Catholic~lic/t) arra. At that time, and 1clon't/mow if tl1atltas clwngccl, tltcy lwei rery little in the way of publications. Jerry Klnsworthy

I was shoclwd at Anne Navanos opinion of the Hany Potter m01 it' ... SacI to say. I don't thinh our duldn:n arc well enough infonncd in their faith to be able to ltandlc II B. Mueller

CONTRIBIIY1HG WAITERS

Margaret Perrone

_..,.. . .~-does_s.o:mudrofRCIA =

PROOFREADING

Christme jones james Luning (cover)

_take~lace-atMass?-

CONTRIBIIY1HG PHOTOGRAPHERS

Wayne Case David Fenech Rev. Matthew Fedewa Patncia Garcia Diane Nowak Margaret Perrone james Rhadigan Rir;ardo Rodnguez David Rosenberg Rev james Swmt Peter Wagner Sharon Wimf!le

Every once in a while, someone will ask. "Why do we have to sec them in church all the time? And why do we have to sec them at Mass?" "They" arc the women and men who arc part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, the RCIA. They seck to join the Church through profession of faith, baptism, confirmation and Eucharist. What we sec each week is their dismissal from the larger assembly to spend time reflecting on each Sundays readings

ADVISORY BOARD

Rev. Ceciho Reyna WEB MINISTRY

Rogers Printmg PRINTING

from Sacred sec them at Scripture. We the Churchs We need to see our may have wit~ public liturgics catechumens and ncsscd their candidates and see them at because they being welthe Church's public rlturgies arc us. Being comed as canfully initiated because they are us. into the didates and catechumens. Church is not During Lent we cJ.:pcricncc the an end but a beginning. Our scrutinies and the sending of liturgical celebrations with our candidates and catechuour catechumens and candi~ dates remind us that their journey of growth in faith is ourjournc~too. VVhatthcy do, we should do in our own way, as we seck to grow and develop our relationship with God in faith. Like our candi· Vigil. TI1cy become us. dates and catechumens, each We need to sec our cateof us is a work in progress! chumens and candidates and - Fr. 0...-lgln !!:up

Thank You for Contrtbutliig to the DSA: Diocesan Servfc.es A~ '(

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Cyberspace Conversion

saint_olthe_m_onth. Made In Japan

Find this and more only on FAITHmag.com

Becoming n Catholic i1S an adult is n l.remendous and wonderful conunilffiem. Perhaps you or someone you know is unsure about the necessary steps it takes to become Catholic. Here are n few sites to help you get started. See fuU reviC\vs on FAITHmag.com.

Sacrament of Baptism scripturecathollc.com/baptlsm.html

A great site to learn about baptism as it is described in the Bible.

Conversion and Converts lc.neV -erasmus/RAZ390.HTM

learn how to become Catholic and why other people chose this faith. Defenders of tl1c Catlwlic Faith www.cathollcconvert.com

Hosted by Michigan author and convert Steven Ray.

"The Decision 10 Become a Catl1olic" www.pulltzer.org/year/1996/beal·reportlng/ works/cathollc.html

A Pulitzer Prize winning story about a Catholic convert.

Web Exclusive Dr. Robbins of Grand Blanc Gets it He says its a work in progress. What? His career? No, his new Catholic faith. Dr. Robbins came into the Church during Easter or 1996. What have been his biggest surprises? He says its the commumty of bclicv· ers- patients who talk about God in their lives -and other doctors, too. Read this story by Ellen Venos and then teU us your story. Click Discussion Forums on FAITHmag.com

Book of the Month Choosing to be Catholic by William).

If you thought ancient Rome was tough on Christians, try Japan - SL Paul Mlkl and the Martyrs of Japan

Imagine a place where Christianity was forb1dden, where Christians were persecuted by the ruling government for practicing the1r faith, and where the Gospel had to be passed on in secret for fear of discovery by the authorities. If you imagined ancient Rome m the early days of the Church, think ag:nn. The struggles of the Christian community m Nagasaki, japan, in the 16th century mirrored the experience of the first Christians- even producing a group of manyrs, led by St. Paul Miki. On Feb. 6, we celebrate the feast of the Manyrs of Japan, St. Paul Miki and Companions. Paul Miki was the son of a japanese military leader and pan of a respected japanese family He belonged to a small, but growing Christian communi· ty that had begun in 1549 when mis· sionancs led by St. Francis Xavier began preachmg m japan Educated at the Jesuit college of Anziquiama, Mik1 JOtned the jesuit order m 1580 and became famous as a preacher. Paul Milli, son of a japanese Despite opposlUon by the rail·

military leader; belonged to a small Christian

glous and government leaders In Japan, the Christian community grew to mora than 200,000 by 1587. Frightened and angered by the

growing numbers of Christians, the taiko - or regent- Toyotomi Hideyosh1, ordered all missionaries to depart, but the faith continued to spread. When by St. Francis Xavier Hidcyoshi heard a Spanish sea captain remark that the growth of Christianity would help Spain or Ponug:~l to con· quer japan. Hideyoshi was furious. Determined to crush the new religion. he ordered 26 Chrio;tmns to be executed in Nagasaki dunng 1597. Among them were three japanese jesuits, including Paul Miki, six Franciscans (from Spain, Mexico, and India); and 17 japanese Jay people, including children as young as 12. They were crucified and run through with spears.

community begun in 1549

O'Malley, SJ. Tile perfect /Jooll for those wllo arc As he hung on the cross, Paul Mlkl preached to the people scelling to learn more a/Jout tlw Catlwlic fait II through gathered for the execution. He told people that he was happy to die for teaching about Christ. "After Christs cx:~mplc, I forgive my pertl1c Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults ancl for secutors. I do not hate them. I ask God to have p1ty on all, and I hope my those wlw may have become disenchanted with the blood will fall on my fellow men as a fruitful rain." He thanked God for the Oum:h or perhaps even with God O\'cr the blessing of dying for the GospeL Some of his fellow martyrs recited the years. This boo!: opens a dimension to thdrlivcs that Our Father and Hail Mary as they died; others simply called out can only come from 1esus! Mary!· discovering what it meam to feci After St. Paul Miki's crucifixion, the japanese government sup· "at home" in tl1e Cllllrch, a dimenpressed Chrisuanity, and forbade missionaries from seuing foot on sion offaitlifulliving that readies For February's Top 1 0 Books japanese soil. But the teachings of the faith continued in secret for tl1e bdicving heart to receive the from the st. Fnmc:ls Retreat hundreds of }'Cars. When missionaries returned to japan in the Center Book 51ura, log on tD 1860s, they were surprised to find a Christian community centered abundant life God offers. IO<!CJbcr 2001), ISBN 081i.Hi~iJ5

-;;p;;;;;;;r.;:;~r;;;;;;;;;;:;:-l m Nagasaki, the home of St Paul Miki. M1ki and his companions were canonized in 1862. -Elizabeth Johnson

in the kilOW. with_ft_J_o_e_ young man approached the During my time In the fence and called to me. He seminary a few years ago, I was assigned to a parish that was coughing loudly and tryÂˇ lng to tell me something. was, shall we say, on the Naturally, I was concerned. I wrong side of the tracks. I went over, opened the fence found the parish completely and led him to the house surrounded by big, high where I got him a glass of barbed wire fences and an water. He finished the drink alarm system that could and stopped coughing. I wake the dead. Gunfire and asked, "Are you OK? What sirens were the order of the were you trying to say?'' day - and night as we tried At that point, he pulled a to sleep. I felt right at home. gun out of his pocket and Around my second week there, I was sitting on a bench said, "Give me your money!' Ooooppsss. In front of the parish when a

1-t~l!

whos o\lt thtrt?

Becoming

Dear Fr. Joe: Why did Jesus get baptized? He didn't have original sin, did he? No, jesus didn't have origtnal sin. In fact, He didn't need to be baptized, techmcally. So, why did He' to the people who were lets look at the watchmg. It wasn't because Scnpturc(s) where it hapJesus needed the Holy Spirit pened and sec whr The story it was a message to those of jesus' baptism can be who were watching that found in the following jesus carried wtthin Himself Gospels: Mark 1:9-ll; the power and blessings of Matthew 3:13-17; Luke 3.21God. The dove was a sign of 22; and, john 3:29-34. peace and salvation (the Before we jump into the story of Noah. remember?) Scripture itself, lets tackle a and its appearance would modern problem. I know have been a great sign to the there arc some who will tell people of war-torn lsrael. you that these stories arc Second. and my favorite made up to teach us a lesson. pan, the voice from Heaven. I don't buy that at all . I Gods voice stated: ~This is my believe what the Catechism states is true - the Gospel sto- beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.'' Wow! What ries arc accurate accounts of power tn that events in the life statement! of jesus as Jesus' baptism was a My good viewed by His message to those friend, Paul Dull, disciples and always points who were watching handed on to us. OUtlO me, that Jesus carried This is a very ''Father, God important point within Himself the to keep in mind power and blessings could have taken that moment to while contemof God. explain things plating the baptheologically. I tism of Jesus. know I would have. But God OK, back to the four Gospels and the accounts of didn't. He paused and satd Jesus' baptism by John. What what any good dad s.1ys. do all of these stories have in 'Thats my boy! I love Htm!~' Can you imagmc that' I had common? First, the descent some cxpclience of that thts of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus. The Holy Spirit in the year on the sidelines al form of a dove was a witness Lansing Catholic Central footÂˇ

Cathol

A Gu1de

to inbtnxriirJgEa1hc~i<:? We spoke with candidates and catechumens of the RClA Program at SL John the Evangelist Parish, Davison and asked them, "What are you looking forward to in becoming Catholic?" Maybe we cradle Catholics can learn a few things from the enthusiasm and perspecuves of potential new Catholics

"Sharing a life with my fiance, growing

in one faith and raising a family that walks in the footsteps of the Lord~ Janey Redinger

"I look forwani to being able to receive the aaaameniB, which win make me feel whole

"A faith I am happy with - I've tried others, but always found myself headed to the Catholic faith~

and complete~ Janice Root

Joe Tasson

Share your fnith nnd encouroge our RC!t\ amdidates and cntechumens What maltcs you mosl happy about being Catholic? join Fr. Cecilia for this and other discussions on FAITHmag.com Click Discussion Fonlms

ball games (go Cougars!). Beaming dads and moms would nudge me and say, kDid you sec my son out there?" Can you sec God that way? Close your eyes, turn off the noise around you and hear the voice of God echoing from the pages of the Gospel, pointing you out to the world and saying. "This is my beloved son!" or ~This is my beloved daughter!" We must hear that voice because, like jesus, we have been baptized. At our baptism, we were joined with jesus in a bond that cannot be broken Remember - God doesn't change His mind.

Dear Fr. Joe: The priest who baptized my children left the priesthood under

some very bad circum· s.1id that was not possible stances. Ever since then, I because tt would make the have wondered If I should sinfulness of a priest stronger than the power of God. And get the kids . .baptized. that just can't be! What do you think? As pnests, This answer we arc vessels may surprise The power of a you but, accordof Gods sacrament does power. Some ing to the not depend on the Catholic days we arc sanctity of the priest bcuer vessels Church, there is who administers it, than others, no such thing as because God is more but our sinful"re-baptism!" ILs powerful than sin. ness docs not like the Detroit have the Lions and a winning record - it can't hap- power to overcome God. Through the authority and pen. Lets tal'c a look at why A long time ago there was a power of jesus, the Church heresy called Donausm (pro- appointed us to administer nounccd just like it looks) the sacraments. where it was said the power I can easily and honestly say I have had some bad d;~ys of a sacrament depended on the sanctity of the priest who and said or did things that administered it. St Augustine hurt people. When I have :1

Discuss Fr. joe's answers on FAITHmag.com Click Discussion Fonlms ~

day like that, I hope others will show me the mercy that jesus has shown all of us and forgive me and allow me to be what I am: a fallen human desperately in need of Gods grace and help. To me, this makes a priest a better leader or spintual helper. I know how badly I need God and I am able to share thm need with others. Brothers and sisters, enjoy another day in Gods presence! SubmH your Questions to: "In the Know with Fr. Joe" FAITH Magazine 300 w. OH•w•, Lanalng, Ml 48933 Or: JoelnBiack@prleslcom E-TALK: Priests answer your questions one-on-one

on FAITHmag.com

fcltnliltY 2002

f AI Til Maga:inc

theology 101 haptisiU: part 2 Rita Thiron, Associate

Director of l11e Office for Worship, continues

will• Part 2:

Baptism for Adulls and a b1icf loolz at Cluislian

Initiation l"·acticcs

What are the steps to becoming catholic? We welcome new adult members into our faith with the Churchs offic1al rite. The Rile of Christian lnitiation of Aclulrs (RCIA). Developed after Vatican II, it restores a very ancient practice in the Church - a catechumenate process. A catechumen ("one under instruction") is called to follow Christ through the "many forms of Gods grace"

(RCIA 5). His or her journey or faith is a gradual one, done best within a community of the faithful. With catechesis based on the Scriptures, by living the Christian life, by practicing apostolic works, and by celebrating the rites or the Church {RCIA 75), thecatechumens (and we) are called to reflect on the value of the paschal mystery and on their lives as Catholic Christians. This journey includes pcliocls of preparation and steps which arc marked by liturgi-

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100 D 1dachc \urlioil l

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in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, in running water. But if you do not have running water, baptize in other water; and if you cannot in cold water, then in warm. And if you do not have either, pour water three times upon the head, in the name of the Father and Son and Holy Spirit. And before baptism, let the baptizer and him that is to be baptized and others first fast one or tWO days before." 160 First Apology [1\

/tt, 1! 1! '''" ~~~

'Then they are led to a place where there is water, and they are reborn after the manner of rebirth by which

I majoLdeY-eloplllents in brin~

we were also reborn; for they arc then washed in the name of the Father and lord of all good things. and or our Savior jesus Christ, and of the Holy Spirit ... After we have thus washed him ... we lead h1m to those who arc called brethren, where they are assembled and make common prayer ... At the conclusion of the prayers, we greet one another with a kiss. Then bread and chalice containing wine mixed with water arc presented to the one presiding over the brethren . ... At the end, all present express their approval..."

Bcc.:om1ng

203 de Bnpltsmo [t, !, 1 rrdlt:!tt

"Those who have prepared for baptism are urged 'to pray, with frequent prayers, fastmgs, and bending of the knee, and all·night vigils, along with the confession or all their sins. Daily exorcism is preferred ... abstain from daily bath for a week.' MAn invocation or the Holy Spint over the baptismal water... Renunciation of the devil and three-fold creedal interrogations along with three immersions, a post-bap· tismal anointing ... !:lying on or hands and a we!· coming of the Holy Spirit.. . the neophyte is welcomed

Catholic

into the assembly and given a drink of milk and honey. ~suitable time for tnttiation ts Easter, or if not Easter, then Pentecost, or any day. 'Chnstians are made, not born."' :

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[Period of the Catechumcnate) (1 7-19) "Catechumens are instructed for three years, we lay hands on them and dismis.~ them ... If he suffers violence and is put to death before baptism, he shall be justified by having been baptized in his own blood •

Gu1de

Baptism Part 1

BapUsm Part 2

Reconc:iliation

Euc.hansl

Confinnation

Holv Orders

Marriage

February

·r

cal rites (sec page 18). Because this process has a particularly paschal character - entering into the dying and rising of Jesus Christ - it is most appropriate that the catechumen is initiated at the Easter V1gil. At that time, he or she will receive all three sacraments of initiation - baptism, conftrmation, and Euchanst. A period of mystagogia ("the mysteries revealcdw) follows. Though intense during the 50 days of Easter, this period is just the beginning of a life-long faith

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formation and participation in the sacramental hfc of the Church.

the best of our ability, we welcome them to Mass, and we are present at the various rites. We warmly welcome Who Initiates new them to the font of hfe, to members Into the Church? the sacrament of confirma· We all do! "... the people of tion , and to cat with us at God, as represented by the the Lord's Table. Some of us local Church, should under- may serve as godparents and stand and show by their con- sponsors; others serve as catcern that the initiation of echists. Bishops, priests, deaadults is the responsibility of cons, RCIA team members all the baptized" (RCIA 9). have special roles, but we all We invite them to know initiate them into our community of faith . our Savior and to join our Church; we offer hospitality, RuuiiU111 Tlrimn\ Jull we answer thctr questions to ar 11clc on FAITHmag.com

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".. . You have been made fit to receive the more sacred mysteries, having been counted _... ..,. . worthy of !E•• 1?!'··~· · ·, . r,; . i iit;;. c~ , :; divine and ~-~. ~VI • life-giving ;....· · '\ ' baptism. It I ~-~(: . . ~ I . remains ?..,. · lI' therefore • '1". i:.: • \ \!'_ ;, ! to dress for you a board of perfect instruction, let us now teach you exactly about these things, that you may know the deep meaning of the effect wrought upon you on that evening of your baptism." ~-

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the catechumens at the no more nor less than seven Manyrium. They fast and sacraments. experience daily exorcisms during the eight !sic.) weeks 1439 ( "'"" il o/1 lmc 11e c of Lent. For three hours each Declares the sacraments day the bishop teaches them contain and confer grace. Scripture. Five weeks later the bishop presents them the Creed and explains it to them.w

400 D1:Jry of :J Pilgrim

.t:' 11e1

5·12th centuries

Gradual dissolution of the rites of initiation into three separate sacraments. Because of high infant mortality rate, children arc baptized immediately after birth. In the West, the bishop reserves the sacrament of confirmation to himself.

"The bishop examines the sponsors as to their re::~diness 1274 Counnl <'/hom and writes in the names of Declares that the Church has

sacraments. 16·201h centuries

Rite for emergency baptism becomes the norm for both adultS and children. Constitution on the Si!crcd Lrturgy 1963 \ 'cl/111111 II

"The catechumenate for adults, comprising several distinct steps is to be restored and to be put into use at the discre-

Join in the discussion on FAITHmag.com Click Discussion Forums

lion of the local bishop. By this means the period of the Catechumenate, which is intended as a time of suitable _..."""""""'7"-,n instruction, may be sanctified by sacred rites to be celebrated at successive intervals." 1974 R1te of Chnstian lnitiatron of Adults

First edition of RCIA is promulgated, mtcnded for pastoral use and study. 1988

Use of the RCIA becomes mandatory for use in the United States. \fme 011 FAITHmag.com

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conducted weekly with the priest in the rectory office. The course of instruGtions lasted a minimum of six months - usually more - until the convert was ready: Persons baptized in another faith group and familiar wtth the Bible and doatrine somenmes required less time. Reception into the Church of the already-baptized and the baptism of other converts was also private with only familyland mends in attendance. Most parishioners and Catholics generally knew about convert classes

from the bishop

but rarely knew who these people were. After my ordination in May 1957, I was assigned "assistant priest" at St. Mary Catholic Church in Gary. Ind. It was a parish community of 2,600 families with three priests. Among many surprises for a new priest was the discovery that all the unfinished business of my predecessor was now in my lap. Of course, that happens in all transfers. My predeccssor had been an assistant there for 14 years and was known and much loved by all. Thus, he left a lot behind for me - couples to prepare for marriage, us well us the weddings, and ongoing instruction for more than 20 converts. After World War II ended in 1945, many people were attracted to Cathohc•sm. The 1940s and 50s were rich in converts. This was also the time of Bishop Fulton Sheen and the extensive publicity surrounding so many of the famous converts he brought into the Church. It was common for a priest to be asked: · what do I have to do to become a Catholic? I'd hke to jom the Church.· Or, "Father, my fiance is nonCatholic. Can she and I talk to you?" Even, "Father, our daughter is going \vith a nonCatholic. Can they come and sec you?" Now, more than 60 years later, priests hear the same questions and have \vitnesscd

an intensified and dramatic interest and attraction to the Church. This coincides with the powerful universal presence and witness of Pope john Paul II and Jubilee 2000. Statistics reveal that the Church is rich wilh converts. From 1995 to 2000, more than 160,000 adults entered the Church. During this time, the Diocese of Lansing received between 1,200 to 1,400 convens each year. The 1975 encyclical of Paul

of initiation of the curly Church and at work in the same rites today. To describe the process of convens entering the Church us "initiation" is more than new- its strange. We relate initiation to the stunts done to freshmen entering high school or universities - even sailors us they cross the equator for the first time. The early Churchs initiation reflected the common understanding of the word in the

It is no longer private instructions by a priest with a conven. Now convens journey with a parish, especially the RCIA group and a chosen sponsor. The entire parish knows the convens and sees them in their midst each Sunday. The sequence of rites toward reception into the Church arc celebrated publicly with the assembly us witness. The parish knows and

Now, a convert's journey is with the whole parish. We get to know them and see them in our midst. VI on evangelization and the

24-year emphasis of John Paul II have reawakened in Catholics a sense of mission and a commitment to evangelization. This resulted in increasing numbers of converts and many challenging qucstions about their initiation and reception into the Church. Under the necessary guidance of the Holy Spirit, the Church reached back to her beginnings through two millennia of history and produced the Rile of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). In 1988 it was new to us, but we soon discovered it was actually very ole/ The Church had taken the early way of bringing converts into the Church and brought it into our time. The spiritual results of the RCIA since 1988 cenainly confirm the action of the Spirit at work m the rites

Roman world. For ancient Romans, iniuauon simply meant "beginning.· Two frequem uses were ~to begin a journey" and "to enter sacred rites and mysteries.· It was easy for the early Church to shift initiation from the merely secular to the Christian. Entry into the Church now was ~to begm a lifelong journey of faith• and "enter the sacred mysteries of Christ." The restoration of the early Churchs Rite of lnitiauon of Adults has transformed the conven classes of the 1940s and 50s into a lifelong faith journey This journey beg~ns in the company of the community of believers, members of the mystical body of Christ who accompany, teach and pray w1th the adults us they prepare to enter the sacred mysteries of Christ.

Arc you a convert? Share your s1ory on FAITHmag.com Click Discussion Forums

supports them, prays for them and welcomes them The entry of new members in the Rite of Initiation is the business of the entire Church. The parish who accompames them on their journey will be revitalized. My expencnce of the RCIA since 1988 as a pastor and bishop has convmced me that it is one of the great· est blessings in our Church an all-around blessing Now, from the bcginnmg, convens make their journey of faith and prepare to enter the sacred mysteries in the company of Christ and the members of His body, the Church. This communion \vith Christ and His members \viii never cease. - Most Rev. Carl F. Mcngcling is the fourth Bishop of Lansing

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Tlu: invitation at rig/at was lo Wan-ens Pitlyun Habcn w/lic/a is a celebration similar to

JJrcseauing an infant to tlte TcmJ'Ic. Coincidentally, Warrens was on tlae Feast of lite Presentation of tlac Lord

was a good jewish boy and expected to grow into a good jewish man . And this probably would have happened except that jesus - and Him crucified, as St. Paul might say - had His eye on me since l was a liule child. ment was when My mother's father's mother- my Great-Grandma he came down to Birnbaum - lived in a distant part of Brooklyn from where l sec our grew up, but we would visit her once a month. There was not a lot for me to do at her house. Times must have been Hanukah cansafer because even as a very young child - 4 or 5 years old- dies and I went up to see his Christmas tree (which I was permitted to go for walks by myself around her neighborhood. I always had the s:tme destination: the fence of had the coolest ornaments that actually lit up and bubbled when you plugged them what I now know was a large Catholic cemetery where there was this wooden cross with a little roof over it that faced the in). His mother's name was Therese- which I knew, probably from my parents, was not a Jewish name. This street. On that cross was a man to whom a very strange thing was happening. Although I did not know what exactly made her seem quite exotic, although the person she reminded me of most was Grandma Hecht because they that man and cross represented, I sensed two things. The both always had their heads covered with a kerchief. I don't first was that I was drawn to it as I was -and have been drawn to no other object I have ever encountered. The secremember his dad, whose name was jose ph - which was a ond was that I should not, under any circumstances, menjewish name because I had a cousin named Joseph. and tion this to my parents. I had no idea who that man was or Joseph in the Five Books of Moses had a coat of many colors why he was on that cross until I met Arnold Ferarri, the first and knew what dreams meant. The first time I was in person I knew who wasn't Jewish. Arnold Ferarri's apartment was quite an experience for me because not only did he have a Christmas tree and an interI grew up in an apartment house with 120 families, all of whom were jewish. All the people I knew in my public esting mother, but on his wall was a smaller version of the school were - at least I thought -jewish. I never even saw a man on the cross. Through clever- I thought- questioning of Arnold. I ham sandwich until a kid named Alan Wine brought one to school in junior high. found out that the man on the cross was there in case you I met Arnold Ferarri when, for some reason I can't imagdied and a priest had to come over to give you the Last ine, his family moved into our apartment house. It was Rites. And the man's name was jcsusthesavior, whatever that meant. I was, if nothing else, a curious about the time we started first grade and I honestly thought, without really thinkchild and so I went to the public Although I did not know what exactly library - my mother was a school mg about it, that everyone in the world that man and cross represented, I teacher and so I could read almost was Jewish. Arnold and I became friends, was drawn to ~ as I was - and have before I could walk . at least the way although our relationship was different been - drawn to no other object I than any friendship I'd ever had. First of the story came down to me - and have ever encountered. all, Arnold was not Jewish, but somegrappled with whatever encyclopedia thing called Catholic. My mother tried to they had there until I figured out that explain to me what Catholic meant by pointing out that the His name was jesus and He was the Savior, whatever that woman dressed in black from head to toe that I had once mcanl. And not only that, but the thing that was happening seen on a bus and thought was a witch was also Catholic. I on that cross was that Jesus was being crucified. After that I read -secretly and guiltily- everything I could was given strict instructions never to cat anything in Arnold's house. That was OK because we only played Hnd about jesus. As I got older I encountered lots of Catholic together outside. The only time we visited each other's apart- kids, especially on the city bus going to junior high . It

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he described as a non-religious, seemed all Catholic girls wore plaid though spiritual, group of men jumpers and went to parochial who gathered to deepen their school, while the boys all were the understanding of the spirituality toughest kids I ever met and to be encouraged by the self-help proavoided at all cost. I also learned gram. The retreat was given at thaLjesus was definitely Catholic (I didn't meet my first Protestant, St. Paul of the Cross Retreat Center in Detroit, not because it an Episcopalian hippie named Irene, was a Catholic institution, but until I was in my junior year at because of the facilities. And the college). I found two Catholic retreat master was a priest who churches, one named St. Thomas Aquinas that was actually within was not there as a Catholic, but because he, too, was recovering. walking distance of my house, and I was slightly skeptical, but one on Flatlands Avenue (I have no agreed to go. idea which saint it was named after) God is both patient and has a that we passed going and coming sense of humor. It turned out from Grandma Hecht's. I also disthe recovering pncst had taken covered, by hanging around St. ill and so the regular retreat Thomas Aquinas and looking in the master had to give the retreat. door when someone opened it, that Since Fr. Pat was a priest who was not recovering, he gave a at the end of the aisle was a large crucifix. I spent a fair amount of time for a 10- to13-year-old boy outside St. Catholic retreat which was quite acceptable because 72 of Thomas Aquinas waiting for someone to open the door. I the 75 men auending the retreat were Catholic. One of my would never think of opening it myself - let alone going favorite sayings in the self-help program was that with God inside - because in my rather non-ecumenical mind I would there arc no coincidences. St. Paul of the Cross, as you may be committing a grave, though unnameable, sin. The first know, founded a religious congregation called the Passionists, whose focus is on the Passion, or suffering of Catholic church I ever entered, St. Patrick Cathedral in Christ. The majority of the retreat took place in the chapel at Manhattan, was after I was in college (and that didn't count St. Paul of the Cross. where, as in other Catholic churches, a anyway because all of my friends in college considered St. Patrick's a pan of the city, like the Empire State Building.) crucifix stands behind the altar. The crucified Christ there is T1me, as they say, passes quickly when you're having fun life-sized and represented as still alive and suffering, so His and I had so much fun in college that it took six years to eyes were open. And He was looking at me. graduate - and by the ume I d1d, I considered myself a nonI cannot begin to tell you how that two and a half day retreat changed my life. I was drawn into that crucifix and religious person, though cuhurally Jewish. Religious people, I thought, were intellectually weak and had no faith in realized that Christ had been calling to me from the cross themselves or their mental abilities. I was a hippie (the since I was a little boy. Although Fr. Pat apologized profusely to me and the other two non-Catholic men, I felt like he was Ep1scopalian Irene was my girlfriend's best friend) and, in 1969, in my search for a beuer hfe I moved to Ann Arbor, giving that retreat just for me. where a friend assured me writers were When I returned to Ann Arbor, I welcome and the fine for marijuana posbegan attending Mass at St. Thomas lime, as they say, passes quiddy vmen the Apostle Church with my sponsor session only $5. Life has a way of proyou're having fun and I had so much fun who just happened to be a practicing gressing and in 1982 - at the profound urgmg of my w1fc and a rather nasty, I in college that it took six years to gradu- Catholic. In August, my sponsor thought, psychiatrist - I found myself in ate - and by the time I did, I considered informed me that there was some new program called the RCIA, which was a a self-help program trymg to stay away myself a non-religious person. from alcohol and various drugs. way for adults to join the Catholic Part of recovery in this self-help proChurch. Much to the amazement of gram entmled making a decision to turn ones will and one's my wife, who is a cradle Catholic, and all of my recovering life over to the care of God as one understands God. I found friends- who were all fallen-away Catholics - I signed up. thts a tall, not to menuon shghtly offens1ve order. After sevThere arc four instances on my journey through the RCIA eral months of intense struggle, in June of 1983 my sponsor that I will never forget. That September on the night of the suggested I attend a retreat of the Matt Talbot Society, which first class, 1 remember sitting in my car outside the parish .. Shure your story on FAITHmag.com Click Discussion Forums

ll'dlllldl)' 2001

Deacon Wan-en Heclrt wltlr Fr. RogerÂˇ Proltor' during Mass at St Tl10111as tire Ar1oslle Parislr, Ann Arbor. Deacon Heclll presides at Euclraristic Adoration. And, Wan-en wltlt Iris wife, Clrristlue, at Argicros Italian Restaurant iu Ann Arbor.

office building where the meetings took place, feeling like a Therese who had done so much for me without me even traitor to my upbringing but promising God that if this is knowing who she was. what He wanted me to do to stay sober, I would follow An older woman, whose name was also Therese and through. In December of that year my father died. I had yet whom I would sometimes give a ndc to church, asked if I to tell my parents that I was investigating the Church, and at had ever thought about becoming a deacon. I never had, but my father's very jewish funeral I felt I asked Deacon Gwynn McPeek exactly what I shall call, for want of a beuer what a deacon is and that began a jourI cannot begin to tell you how that two term, intense cultural connict. That ney thill resulted in my ordination in and a half day retreat dlanged my life. inner turmoil, however, was completely 1992 and ts sull unfoldmg today I was drawn into that crucifix and realcalmed by an overwhelming knowledge All but one of my fallen-away friends ized that Christ had been calling to me arc now active Cathohcs. that Our Lady and someone named St. from the cross since I was a little boy. Therese (of whom I had never, that I I told my mother l had joined the know of, heard) assured me that I was Church in May of 1984 She did not doing exactly the right thing and that knowing what he now become angry as I expected, but said although she did not knew, my father would fully concur. On the Saturday momunderstand it, she could tell! was doing well and was mg of Easter Vigil, 1984, the evening I was supposed to pleased for me. I had the grace of baptizing her on her receive the sacraments of initiation - baptism, confirmation deathbed this june. and first Eucharist - I was wracked by doubt. Was I being If you would have asked me when l was 15 or 16 did I honest with myself? I had no desire to offend jesus, the ever think I would join the Roman Catholic Church, l would Church or the jewish religion. I spent hours in St. Thomas have thought you were crazy. Today I can't imagine not pr:~ying to Our Lady and again felt more than reassured. devoting my life to jesus and His Church. l am so grateful ~ H:~il Mary, full of grace." And I will never forget as I was that the Lord called me from His cross, waited for me and baptized in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy when I finally understood what He was offering, brought me Spirit by then Father, now Monsignor, Robert Lunsford - the into His Body. certainty of knowing that the burden of the sin I had willingly accumubted over the first 37 years of my life was Mlnlstry_Focus ..PennananLDeacon..2r:Dgram. lifted from my soul by the very jesus who had c:~lled, then patiently waited for me since I was a child. My confirmation Warren Hecht is one of an increasing name is St. Paul of the Cross. number of men who serve the people of Once a neophyte, !threw myself into the Church. I attend- God in ordained ministry as a deacon. ed Mass daily. Sr. Dolora, one of the sisters :~t St. Thomas, Uke priests, deacons are theologically t:~ught me how to pmy the Divine Office. My wife's aunt, trained and sacramentally ordained minisCeleste, sent me a pledge to pmy five decades of the Rosary ters of the Church. Even though they cannot preside at every day as a way of thanking Our Lady for watching over Mass or hear confessions, they can perform many functions me. I continue to do so today. Msgr. Lunsford paid my way such as presiding at marriage ceremonies and baptizing. to a conference of people who were trying to understand Deacon Bill Slrt is director of the office for the how to implement the RCIA in their parishes. There I met Permanent Diaconate. He oversees the formation of men devoted Catholics from all over the country who reaffirmed interested in becoming deacons and supports the deacon my faith and journey through the RCIA. I became a perpetu- community in the Diocese of Lansing. al member of the St. Thomas RCIA team. Anyone who feels called to a vocation to the diaconate Shortly after my baptism, Bill, a person I met in recovery, can find out more by talking to their parish priest or deaoffered to take me to a meeting of Third Order Discalced con, calling (517) 342Âˇ2541 or logging on to Carmelites. I went and very quickly learned a lot :~bout St. www.DJoceseofLanslng.org selecting Office of Formation. Bccomtng

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Saint Francis Retreat Center

......

a place to find God , yourself and each other

2002 Retreats from St. Francis Retreat Center Men and Women Retreats: Who Will Tell The Story . . . ?

Women

Men

Each generation has the responsibility to pass on our story, the story oF Jesus, of God's Word, ol' the way we worship and the centrality of our Eucharist. There is the story ol' the people of God, of hope amid suflcring, or a spirituality that embraces and expresses the heart of' the individu;al and the community. Join us for a weekend and listen to the story. You can come with the men or women from your parish or any weekend thilt is convenient.

;\ \an.h 22-24 April 12-14 ,\pril 26-28 June 7-9 July 12- 14 July 26-28 SO:ptemLcr 13- 15 September 20-22 Seplember 27-29 0 LtoLcr4-6 01.1oLcr 18-20 Ottobcr 25-27

Fcbruar:y 1-3

Saturday

Agenda for Regular Weekend Retreat Friday 6:01lpm 7:00 8:15 9:15

Registration Dinner Orientation Presentation Night Prayer

7:30 8:00 8:30 9:15 10:45 12:15 1:15 4:15 6:00

Rh 1ng Prayer Breakfast Presentation Eucharist and Presentation lunch Reconc 111a t ion Presentation Dinner

7:30 8:45 <::ur day 7:30 8:00 8:30 9:15 10:45 12:00 1:15

Presentation Prayer Rfsing Prayer Breakfast Presentation Service of Sending lunch Eucharist

Married Couples Retreats

July 26-28 December 6-8

Singles Retreat Mother/Daughter Retreat Oi rected Retreat

No, ember 8-10 ~lay

10-11

July 15-2 1 A quiet retreat with the availability of daily spiritual direction and liturgy is co-sponsored by the Dominican Center lor Religious Development and St. Francis Retreat Center.

Contemplative Retreat For Women Retrouvaille A Lifeline l'or Troubled Marriages Contact: 517-669-6631

Alcoholics Anonymous Women Contact: June Olson, 734-654-7933 or Paula Alexander, 989-723-7200

Alcoholics Anonymous Men Contacr : Floyd Bennett, 989-725-2300 St. Francis Retreat Center

(517) 669-8321

www.srl •ancrs.ws

Nmem ber 22-2-t March 8-10 May 17- I<J August 23-25 Feba·uary 8-10 May 3-5 August 9- 11 Novem ber 1-3 June 14-16 O ctober 11-13 Decem bcr 13- 15

FcLrual)' 22-24 Mar,h 1-:i March 15-17 April 5-7 t\plil 19-21 Scph:mbe•· 6-8

Retreat Team From top left: Fr. Tom McDevitt. les Perino, Katy Perino. Fr. larry Delaney. Sr. Suzanne Eichhorn O.P .• Bottom row: Kary Tardif, Jan Haselschwerdt

Bethany House he re youth meet Christ

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Bethany House Summer Youth Events 2002 Thank You to the Knights of Columbus Bethany House was built for the youth of the Diocese of Lansing In part by the generous support of the Knights of Columbus . The Knights of Columbus madr history taking on one of the largest local commitments In Knights ' history building Bethany House, a spiritual life center for youth. This project Is consls· tent with the Knights' long commitment to bulldlng strong faml11es. For more lnfor· matlon on helping the Knights with this and other projects. contact the Knights of Columbus council at a parish near you.

Youth for Life Run/Walk June 15 An event lor all youth and young adults to promote the sanctity of' human lilc while raising money lor local pro-life organizations Spirituality of St. Therese Jun e 17-18 A retreat lor young adults (ages 18-30) to reflect on the faith of a remarkable saint - Presented by Ralph Martin Single AND Holy! July S-7 A weekend retreat for single young adults (ages 21-30) to rellect on being single and living holy lives WWJD Football Camp

July 9-12 A camp for young men (grades 7-1 0) to develop their athletic talent and grow in their relationships with God

Life's Instruction Book July 13-14 A weekend retreat for high school youth to discover the Bible and its directions for our lives Taking God to School Augustl6-18 A back-to-school weeltend retreat lor high school youth to discuss how to live as a Christian every day What Are You Waiting For? Sign Up Today! Individuals or groups may register lor the above events by calling Jenny Bales at Bethany House at 517-668-3747. Find out more. Log on to:

www.bethanyhouserc.org Fr. Jerry Vincke, Director Jenny Bales, Assistant to Director

Bethany House (517) 668-37-t7 www.bctruan.d aou ~ n;:.org

Do Your Soul a Favor - Retreat!

Bethany House

Saint Francis a place to find God, yourself and each other

here youth meet Christ

"This place is awesome and peaceful!" - St. John the Baptist Youth

The Lord spe<tks to us in a soli voice. If we arc to hear 1-hm, we must be still and locus on our relationship with God through prajer. It removes worldly distrac• tions, and provides an intimate reception which welcomes our Lord into our innermost being. Such a connection can allow us to better understand how completely God lmows and loves each ol us. St. Francis Retreat Center invites you to do your soul a favor. Take the time for some quiet prayer :md reflection on one of our retreat weekends or take advantage of the spcdal prc'l!entations oflcred on a variety of spiritual issuc·s.. Stroll the grounds, and appreciate the God-given be;lllty that surrounds and is within us. The retreat center is situated on 95 acres of pine groves and grassy knolls. Imagine the level of' darity you can achieve with· out distractions or interruptions. Our peaceful surroundings allow you to focus on your goals, while providing a stress-free atmosphere that nurtures both body and soul. We desire to pro\·idc a place ol welcome and hospitality lor persons, communities, and organizations consistent with our valut.os.

"I am so happy I came here. I have learned so much and feel like I am getting closer to God and building a better me." - MSU Student "Bethany House was the perfect place to have this retreat. It was awesome!" - Holy Redeemer Youth "I now know that God will forgive me lor every· thing and His mercy is greater than all our sins" St. John the Baptist Youth

"The experience overall was grl!at. It was so much fun and I had a blast!" - Holy Redeemer Youth "I wish I could stay longer. W!! arc truly blessed to have this center."- MSU Student

''I've never been on a retreat like this!"- St. Mary (Pinckney) Youth

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(517) 669-8321

Bethany House www.bethanyluou .1-: rc.org

(517) 668-3747

St. f ranc 1s &

Bethany House

703 Main St. DeWitt, MI 48820

St . Francis Retreat Center Bookstore Visit the retreat center bookstore whether you are on a retreat or not. The store is filled with books, music and gilis lor Catholics - plus personalized service to all ministries. Discounts are available. Please feel free to call and speak with our knowledgeable stall'. Store Hours: Monday· Friday: 9:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday; Noon to 4:00 p.m.

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Catholic Diocese of Lansing Retreat Centers

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reversed. It was Wanda:S son from a previous marriage, Taff Isaacs, who fntroduced them to Catholicism and encouraged them to join him on his spiritual journey into the Catholic Church. â&#x20AC;˘ www.FAITHmag.com

Fdm11Jty 2002

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alf, a full-time college student and truUerial handler for an auto suppli· cr. gn:w up among Baptists in Kentucky but knew he wanted to be a Catholic for a long time. "(The Chun:h) just seemed to have more structure and suppon, and built on a solid foundation," he explains. In 1987, TafT entered a Rite of Christian lnitiauon for Adults (RCIA) program, but didn't finish. Eleven years later, he met Dr. Jim Kruer, a physician and lifelong Catholic whose gentle manner and givmg ways inspired TafT Taff, a full-time college student, to cast aside his doubts and grew up among Baptists in distractions and actively Kentucky but knew he wanted embrace the fatth. to be a Catholic for a long time. Jim sponsored Tali in his RCIA preparation, and came to k11ow and appreciate TafT's family in the process. "Right from the stan, I thought Frank and Wanda were a wonderful, loving couple," Jim says TafT invned his stepfather and mother to hts baptism in 1999, and was struck by how moved they were by the ceremo·

•

ny. This encouraged TafT to talk to them about entering the RClA program themselves. Though interested in the idea, neither Frank nor Wanda WJS moved enough to take action. Then, about a year later, Wanda was felled by severe abdommal pain and rushed to the local hospital. The initial reports revealed a suspicious mass in her liver- suggesting cancer - and the couple prepared themselves for the worst. Together, they spent a long Dr. Jim Kruer's gentle manm night in her hospital room talkand giving ways inspired Ta mg. crying. praying. By mommg, to cast aside his doubts anc they had vowed that if Wanda actively embrace the faith. would survive the crisis, they would stan the process of becoming Catholics immediately Within a day, they learned thnt the mass was not cancerous and that \vith treatment Wanda would be just fine. The family was thrilled, of course, but TafT had even more reason to be excited: he knew of the vow his mother and stepfather had made.

Sacraments of Initiation On Easter Vigil 1 11te Elect are brought

• Period of Evangelization and the Pn:catechumenate In this period, the ··rnquirer" is welcomed tnto our community and is tnvited to get to know

Elect •••••••••

the Lord jesus and ourfatth.

• Rite of Election or Enrollment of Names

Catechumen

•••••••••

Now the bishop, actmg on behalf of the ~:ntire Church tnquires about each catechumens readiness and "chooses" them to recetve the sacraments of mitiation. The Church records thetr names tn a "Book of the Elect "

• Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens

"What do you ask of Gods 0JUrch7, • the presider asks. "Faith"" is the response. We mark the inquirer with the sign of the cross on their senses and we present tl1em with a copy of the Se~iptures.

• forward and we invoke the intercession of all the saints. 2 We ask the Elect to make a renunciatiOn of sin and profession offaith 3 They are baptized "in the

• Period of the Catechumenate During tltis period, the catechumens are Wunder instn1ction." They Jearn about our faith in lessons

developed from the Scripture readings we use at Mass.

• Period of Purification and Enlightenment

This period usually coinddes with Lent and is an intense period of prayer, reflection, and fasting. 11te Elect also expe•ience the "Sc11.1tinies" where they reflect on the sm in their lives and pray to overcome it.

thejourney

Taff helped them select a parish to approach; six months after the health scare, the couple walked in the door of Ypsilantis St. john the Baptist Church and introduced themselves to the rest of the RCIA class. ~Mom was kind of nervous about going," relates Taff, "but l talked to her about my experience and how a feeling of peace just comes over you." Taff was the obvious choice for Wandas sponsor and Talrs sponsor, jim, agreed to guide Frank. ~jim is our 'adopted' son, so, of course, we wanted him to be involved," says Frank. "And I was honored to be asked, ~ answers jim. ~Frank was very committed to the process," jim noted, "even when it conflicted with his work." Franks swing-shift schedule as an clectncian sometimes rcqutrcd him to go to work after the RCIA evening meetings. Frank had some ~-posurc to the faith as a child: "My dad was Catholic, and I remember going to catechism class for a while." But both he and Wanda were amazed at the warm, welcoming nature of the Church. ~Nobody gets left out," Wanda says. ~

of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. " 4 We clothe them with a white garment, a sign of their new life in Ch1ist. 5 We present them with a lighted candle so that they may ~walk always in the light of Christ and keep the flame of faith alive in [their] hearts."

8 Next, they receive the sacra~

ment of confirmation with the laying on of hands and the anointing with chrism. 7 The culmination of the Easter Vigil is the litwgy of th' Euchmist, when we welcome these new members to the Lord~ Table for the first time.

Neophytes

•••••••••••

• Period of Postbaptismal Catechesis or Mystagogy Mystagogia means "the mys-teries revealed." Now that the "neophytes" have actually experienced the sacraments, they continue to deepen their grasp of the paschal mystery, meditate on the Gospel, and do works of charity No longer dismissed from our assemblies, they hold a special place of honor in our church during the Easter season and, as we have for over a year, we pray for them in the prayers of the fatthful.

One Family - 'IWo Religions 2 Ways to Help Your Family Adjust to Conversion

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ur culture emphasizes personal autonomy, yet when one family member makes a life altering decision, the entire family changes. The Latin word, converso, means to whirl around, to transform, to cause to tum about Being among those "caused to tum," rether than the one making the decision, is difficult. The com· fortable pattern of family life that has developed over time seems threatened. Loved ones mourn that "things will never be the same again~ What helps families adjust? 1 Acknowledge the change: Conversion docs involve transformation. The plea, "Create in me a clean heart, 0 God" (Psalm 51 ) is answered by the cleansing waters of baptism. But this transformation is not just a private, interior change. The longing to direct one's heart to seek the will of Christ influences choices and behaviors that are evident to others. The family has experienced a loss; familiar routines have been disrupted. It may take a while before loved ones are ready to regroup and explore new ways of relating. 2 Remember that the family Is a system: Aspects of relationships with one another and with nature are constantly in flux, although we try to impose a sense of stability and predictability on our world. Those living near the Great Lakes are aware of the migration of the sand dunes as they are pushed by driving winds. Vegetation and trees are Tile family has experienced buried in sand but the roots of new life take hold as beach grass and sand a loss. It may taltc a wltile

cherries appear on top of the new dune. In the same way, the whirling before loved ones are ready change of conversion shifts the intertwined lives of mothers and fathers, to regrotljl and explore new sisters and brothers. lime, patience, and gracious acceptance of one ways of rclallng. another's reactions may be needed for each person to adjust, to put roots down in new soil, and to feel family stability again. You are not alone: After she encountered Jesus at the well, the Samaritan woman hurried to town saying, "Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did." (John 4:29) Those baptized as adults may long for loved ones to fully understand the experience of conversion, and to see for themselves the joy of following Christ As a new person in Christ, the convert provides witness of God's love. Venerable John Henry Newman wrote, "The heart is commonly reached, not through the reason, but through the imagination, by means of direct impressions, by the tea· timony of facts and events, by history, by description. Persons influence us, voices melt us, looks subdue us, deeds inflame us~ Whatever our age at baptism, our call is to listen to the wisdom of the Spirit so that our voices and deeds reflect the love of God.

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- Dr. Cathleen McGreal is a Prorcssor or Psychology al Hope College and a certified spiriiUlll director.

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Ftbtuaty 2002

FAITH Ma!l'lzinc

And nobody is left in the dark: "Deacon Bob Chadwick (direclOr of RCIA for St. John Parish) made sure we understood everyt.hing we were Laught before we left each evening.~ As a professional nann}~ Wanda was pleasantly surprised by the Churchs approach to children: "I loved the fact that kids arc welcome to come to church, and that there arc activities that help keep families together." As the RCIA process moved into winter, a natural attrition occurred in the class and several people dropped out. But Frank and Wanda persevered, even when the process of seeking annulments of previous marriages slowed to a crawl. ul was afraid we wouldn't be able to be baptized in time," shares Wanda. After much prayer and some priestly intervention, the annulments were secured and the couple was free to complete the RCIA experience during the Easter Vigil. On April 14. 2001, with their sponsors beaming \'<ith pride, Frank and Wanda donned their baptismal gowns and entered the immersion font. They emerged \vith enthusiasm and a new sense of purpose: to love and serve the Lord. And serve Him, they have. Not content to just meet their Sunday and holy day obligations, Frank and Wanda have wholeheanedly embraced their new faith family Frank Deacon Bob Chadwick made has joined the Knights of sure we understood everything Columbus and Wanda its we were taught before we auxiliary Wanda also shuttles left each evening. the homeless to soup kitchens set up in area churches and has worked to secure donations from area grocery stores. Frank, in tum, has signed up for a volunteer activity that uses his talents as a tradesman: his churchs Habitat for Humanity team ·we don't come home from work and just sit, like we used to,~ e>.lJlaincd Wanda. ~ ow, we go out and do something. help somebody." Wanda and Frank arc surely reaching out. But they're also intent upon reaching tnsidc themselves to bring God into their marriage. To that end, they've recently attended a Worldwide Mamage Encounter Weekend, and plan to renew their wedding vows in Church this spring. ''God wtll be \vith us this time," says Wanda. Not surpnsmgly, going through the RCIA process has also deepened Wandas relationship \vith her son, Talf. "I'm her youngest child.~ he cx1Jiains," and, because of that, shes always worried a little more about me. But, now. I think she believes in me more because I led her to the process of believing in Jesus."

Where Do I Go tg Become Catbgl!c? If you or someone you know is interested in becoming Catholic, contact the pe1'8011 responsible for RCIA at a parish near you. Not sure what parish to go to? You can find information on parishes across the United States by logging on to ParishesOnllne.org. There, you will find Mass times, maps and contact information.

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Is Your Job Beneath You? Consider This Before You Throw It All Away

hat is God's will for me? How can I more fully and selflessly serve God? Too often we mistakenly believe that what we are currently doing in our life is too common and not grand enough to really be serving God. After all, if we really loved God, we would leave all we have and go into the wilderness - away from our community and family - and live among strangers I Not only is this poor theology, it is also thinking that will usually lead us farther away from God, not closer. When we get into that kind of thinking, aren't we, in effect, saying that this life God has given to us is not up to our atandards? That we are too important for such humdrum common everyday tasks? We certainly know better than God what would be pleasing to Him, don't we? We have two prominent stories that teach us otherwise. The first is about two people who have the perfect job tending a garden in the daily presence of God and they still thought they would be better off if they only possessed the "apple." And then there is the example of Jesus who taught us by His life to humbly serve others and to forgive our enemies. Hia "job" was to do the will of the Father, wherever that led Him. The courageous life - the fully human life - is to be true to the ~ 1 work and the life we have been given and to use God's special "God docs not call me to be gifts to bring a light to the darkness - - - - - - - - - of the world. Rather than looking successful, He calls me 10 be for what we can get out of a situa· lion, wouldn't it be better to look faithful."- Mot Iter Teresa for what we might give? Mother Teresa said, "God does not call me to be successful, He calls me to be faithful ~ God does not ask us to accomplish great results, He asks us to have a humble loving heart so He can accomplish great things through us. By our baptism we are called to acknowledge God's presence among us now and to follow in the footsteps of Christ Our most important "work" is to be a disciple of Christ and a good steward of our personal vocations in this life. Each of us must discern, accept and live out joyfully and generously the commitmenta, responsibilities and roles to which God calls us. In the Decree on fire Apostolate of tire Laity, we are instructed that "Christ's redemptive work ... includes also the renewal of the whole tern· poral order. Hence the mission of the Church is not only to bring the message and grace of Christ to (the world) but also to pene· Irate the temporal order with the spirit of the Gospel." Each of us has a responsibility to engage and renew - not with· draw from - the world and society. We are called to develop and use our special gifts and talents which have been given by God to transform the world and serve others in and through our work. Where in the darkness of this world has God already sent you to be a light? - Michael Sullivan, SFO, is president of Sullivan & Sullivan, Inc., :~nd speciali:.es in serving f:~mily business owners and organi:tation leaders. He can be rc:~ched at {734} 769..SOOO or sulllvanmw@aol.com

Remember, you belong to something - your local pariah

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l'rbnoary 2002

fAITH Mag:a:mc

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he events of Sept. 11 have touched the lives of many people. The lives of too many innocents ended that day, while the lives of their families were fore\·er changed. A<;, our nation mourned, men and women around the country, around the world, and m our own state were soon touched by our nations response to the day's events. There are currently more than three million men and women in our nation's armed services and more than 1 mtllion veterans call Michigan home. Many of us know someone (or someones daughter, son, husband or wtfc) who currently serves in the military- on acuve duty, or in the Nauonal Guard and reserves. Many of them call one of our nshes home.

Take Colonel Tibor Lanczy is responsible for the build(pronounced lahn-zcc) as an ings. land and construction example. He and his wife, for the National Guard in •I, •• ,.~. •..J ••t-· ,_. , Taryn, arc members of the M1chigan and is also respon' " 1 · .!1~ . Catholic Community of St. sible for the maintenance of jude in DeWitt. With their 12-year-old the veterans' homes in Marquette and daughter, Sarah, their faces arc a reguGrand Rapids - more than 600 buildlar and active pan of the parish comings in total. "It's a big responsibility," munit}~ As a colonel in the Michigan Taryn qUips, "but in his spare time, he Na11onal Guard, Lanczy serves as the fixes this building," as she gestures to guards facility management officer. He their DeWitt home.

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Tibor is the second youngest of five children of parents who emigrated from Europe in 1952. Because hiS parents had witnessed both World Wars. they felt very strongly about the obligation to serve one's country Even as Tibor sought to follow his parents' wishes, he never imagined a career in the military. Twenty-one years later, his career has taken him places he never imagined. from Reserve OITiccrs Training Corps (ROTC) at Michigan Technological University, where he studied mechanical engineering, to a variety of postings around the state of Michigan. Faith plays an important pan in the Lanczys' lives. For spouses of those in the military, faith and the support of a faith community form a crucial support network. This is especially true for the families of those who serve m the military reserves because they live as part of the regular civtlian community, \vith· out the same kind of support that is found on a military base. As Taryn notes, "Tibor is gone a lot as part of his job. He travels 80 to 100 days a year. l Much of this time is spent in Washington D.C. That means I have to be both mom and dad for Sarah while he's away, trying to make the home run as smoothly as possible." On Sept. 11, Tibor happened to be at a staff meeting in Lansing when the planes hit the World Trade Center and Pentagon."When I saw the coverage on TY, ftrst of the World Trade Center, then the Pentagon, my first reaction was shock and disbelief," says Tibor. Taryn saw television coverage as well, and watched as the second plane struck the Trade Center. Her first thought was of Tibor, and what was happening at work. Fortunately. Tibor was able to call home and let Taryn know that he was fine. Taryn then had the task of reassuring Sarah and the rest of Tibors family that he was fine but would be home late. Events like Sept 11 make spouses of those in the military anx1ous. As Taryn relates, "You know it's their job, but you don't want to sec them have to do . ~ it. At the same time you know its what V they're called to do." When asked what helps her to deal with her anxiety and

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spiritua itness - (}j:balancing things at home, Taryn replies, "I pray a lot. I have a hot line to God." At the same time, faith plays a very imponant pan in Tibors work. Chaplains play a key role in advising military commanders. Tibor shared: ·'As a commander you arc assigned a chaplain, a spiritual advisor, who is there to serve all members of the unit. The chaplain serves as a stafT member and is there as a guide and consultant, giving insight when ethical decisions have to be made. They play a critical role in helping to discern what is morally right. Its imponant to remember that, unlike those responsible for Sept. 11, we don't kill for the sake of killing." Faith is an omnipresent pan of everything the military docs. There is an invocation and benediction for every function. Military posts have chapels and military chaplains span all faiths. The bonds that form between chaplains and the women and men they serve arc very close. ~ When asl<ed about their persona/ prayer life, both Tibor and Taryn arc quick to reveal the imcnsc importance of their faith in the months since Sept. ll. Although the first two months were hectic, Tibor admits his emotions arc still at the surface. "I am reminded how deeply blessed by God we arc in this country. I pray that this conOict ends quickly with as little loss of life as possible. I find that my faith has grown much deeper in the mrdst of these events." Taryns prayer turns first to the safety of those in the military and for their families, and then to everyone. "I think its very touching to sec how people arc reaching out to care for one another right now. We need to make sure God is in our lives. We can't continue being so materialistic." Sharing her cares and concerns with God helps her to handle the stress and strain of this time. -1share it with God. I know Tibor is a pan of this because its his job, and he docs it because he loves it. My prayer life keeps me focused. l know that we're never alone, because God is with us all the time."

Ways to Remember that You are Baptized into Christ

ur spiritual fitness exercises this month are aimed at helping us live more fully our baptism into Christ. I do not remember my baptism. I was only a baby. Most Catholics were baptized as children, and may not have any pictures or videos to remind them of this holy and lifechanging event. God's saving and sanctifying grace comes to us whenever we were baptized. living out our baptism means that we allow ourselves to be clay in the PoHer's hands. It means to have a firm grasp of one's own identity as a child of God. Therefore, spiritual fitness this monlh can include:

1 Find out your baptismal birthday. Call your parents ifyou do not knol\! Call the clturch ofyour baptism. The pa1ish sccrctmy can look it up for you in a fttv minutes. TI1ey do it all tire time. Celebrate your baptismal birthday each year by rcdedicating yourself to God, and than/ling God fol· being chosen to be His son or dauglrlcl: Tlranh God and tlrasc who in faith /rad you baptized, or those w/ro l1t:lped you enter tire Church. 2. Remind yourself dally of your baptism Into Christ One practical time to do t/ris is during ones bath or slwwertime. As tl1e soap and water cleanses the body, ·remember lww tire grace of Cl1rist has washed away original sin and all sin in baptism. ln baptism, we die with Ch1ist and 1ise witlt Him to new life. When you leave the shower refreshed and clean, remember lww tl1e grace of baptism maizes us ready and clean to do the wor/z the Lord has for us each day. 3 Immerse yourself In Sacred Scripture. Our baptism into Christ mem!S tlult we arc children of God, and members of Cluists Body. jesus is the Word made j!eslr. If we arc united to Him, we also must be united to His words. Tl1ey must become a part of us. That is a huge part of living out our baptism. St. jerome, w/ro spent much of l1is life translating and studying Sacred Scripture, said, "Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Cl11ist. " A verse a day lzeeps the devil at bay. Pic/z one of the four Gospels and one letter from tl1c New Testament letters and read tlrem each day. You could also clwose to read the daily Mass readings. Many churcltes lwve the weekly readings published in their bulletins. There arc also many Internet sites that post the daily readings. Sec the Lansing Diocese Web site at ww1v.Dioceseo.{Lansing.org. and go to Catholic USA (catlwlicusa.com) for daily Mass readings. 4 Go on a retreat. Retreats are inst111mcnts God uses to stir into flame the gift we have received in baptism - namely tire gift of the Holy Spi1it. So often, we let the gift of baptism lay dormant within us. It is like tl1e winter ground outside. There is life t/rcrc, blit is bwied under the cold frozen earth. Retreats soften and warm the ground of our smds and allow the life God has planted in us at baptism to /Jurstfort/r. S Die to sin. Uve for God. Baptism is about deatlr and life. Water can dmwn us. In baptism, water is used to remind us of this. The old self dies. Water also gives life. Tire new self, reconstituted by tl1c Holy Spilit, rises to nttv life. Examine your conscience in t/1e light of tl1e commandments and the teacllings of 01rist. Do not hide fmm tire light of God's Word. Be honest and die. When we repent, our baptismal graces an: n:111:wed. Agood confession can n:storc those graces if serious sin is involved. 6 Work on unity. Baptism unites us to Cluist and ot/1er Christians. Do not sec ot/rer Cllristians as denominations, but first and foremost as brothers and sisters in Ouist. 7 Live the mission. Baptism empowers us to act as jesus did. We cannot forget our calling. To live out our baptism means disciples/lip, and discipleship embraces tire mission ofjesus C/uist. We feed the po01; we clothe the naked, we comfort tire dying, we talze care of tllC sich, we visit tire lonely, we pray for the needs of others, we teach, we heal, we proclaim tire t111tlr, we aslz for forgiveness, we forgive, we encourage. If we live our baptism well, we can join St. Paul in saying, "It is no longer I who live, but Christ w/10 lives in me."- Fr. Bill Ashbaugh is pastor or St. joseph Parish, Howell FcbTlAary 2002

FAITH Maga:inc

By Robin Lynch

Photography by Christine Jones

nation, perhaps we have gained sensitivity now to other people's needs and wants when they suffer catastrophes. 'Before, we might have read about something happening in a faraway land - an earthquake or a plane going down and we said , 'gee, that's terrible,' and sort of sympathized, but we were not empathizing. We lost so many lives in the terror attacks, but we have gained a unity as a country." Deacon McDonald and his wife Peggy have since become part of the military support group at St. Patrick Parish. "Fr. Dan McKean was the initiator of the group," he says. "We put the announcement in the bulletin and ten families or so showed up at that first meeting." Although Deacon McDonald has been \vith the parish 25 years and assists with many functions, he attends the group not as a deacon, but as a concerned parent. "It's a group that assists others in terms of meeting and exchanging information." He says only a few others in the support group have people in Afghanistan but the rest of the group obviously arc having anxieties or concerns about their loved ones. " Taking part helps because it means you're not by yourself, you're not isolated. Also, you know that you have other people Peggy and Pat McDonald praying with you, and the power of prayer is unlimited." The meetings begin with prayer and the introduction of find a lot of support new participants. "We find out who they arc and who at Brighton's St. Patrick they're praying for in terms of which branch of the service and their relationships." Participants then discuss what has ... occurred since the last meeting and any communication ~ '] they have had with their loved one m the armed services. flies by night over the Caspian Sea from The meeting is opened up for suggestions and the exchange of e-mail addresses and phone numbers. Turkey to Afghanistan, he has told his News of phone calls and anecdotes of the serviceperson father, Deacon Pat McDonald of St. Patrick arc precious to the members. For instance, Tim McDonald Parish in Brighton, that it is like flying over called his parents on Thanksgiving. ~ rm caung turkey in the surface of the moon, bleak and desolate. Turkey!" he quipped. UHow many people can say that?" The meetings last about an hour and take place every two In fact, he says flying over Afghanistan puts weeks or so Deacon McDonald feels the group is a terrific him in mind of what America must have idea for any pansh because it brings people together. "It breaks the parish down into even smaller groups who have somelooked like before Columbus. But then he thing in common. Its Important that you get to know different sees tracer bullets and is brought back to aspects of people in the parish. They become more than just a the reality that people are trying to shoot at face or a name." He goes on to say that the support group other people. And the Taliban shoot to kill. gives people a place to express themselves and their anxieties. Tim graduated from the United States Air Force Academy "You get to know how they're affected, and to understand them as human beings. And that's important, as well.~ in 1993. His parents have always been concerned for his safety, but never more so than since Sept. 11. Tim has been Deacon McDonald says the military support group is the type of group that can assist each Catholic in exploring his stationed at a base in the far northeast corner of Turkey or her faith more deeply. "We're all since October. One night he might be going to have tests, and the test of us dropping off troops, or Jeeps, and the "We're all gomg to have tests, and as Catholics is how we're gomg to react next night he will be dropping food to the Afghan people. the test of us as Catholics is how to these Situations as a people of faith. In his homily the Sunday after Sept. Certainly, God has our attention now we're going to react to these situa11, Deacon McDonald dealt with the and we should usc these tes~s. just as ( , tions as a people of faith:' tragedy by stating his belief that although we usc all occas1ons m our life, to com- v municatc and get closer to Him.'' we may have lost our vulnerability as a

hen command pilot Captain Tim McDonald (inset photo, kneeling)

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ithin days of the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, St. Patrick Parish in Brighton began looking for ways to support parishioners who have family serving in the military. Within two weeks of the attacks, a parish support group had been formed.

Ministry Focus ..MII latlt..Suppgd. If you have someone in your family who is a member of the military. contact your parish to see if there are any special Masses or programs for you. If your parish does not have any· thing right now, consider Staning something at your parish.

"It started with placing a book in the gathering space of the church for those who wished to sign in names of sol· The men and women serving our diers so that they could be remembered in prayer," says Fr. count1y in the am1ed forces received Dan McKean. ~we then formed an opportunity for families special recognition jan. 6 during a of those in military service to meet. We announced the Mass at St. Pius X Pmish, Flint. The group and extended the invitation to everyone who might Mass of appreciation was dedicated to feel the need to come." all military men and women serving "I remember the Gulf War," Fr. McKean continues, "and the United States whose significance has come to the forefront how the needs of military families were not met soon during the current war being waged on terr01ism. enough. We didn't recognize that those families needed to "We seek justice, not revenge," said Msgr. Richanl Groshek, share stories, letters, and support~ pastor of St. Pius X, during his homily. "That is what our young About eight families attend the support group meetings peopleand older people, as well- in the military arc doing. regularly, and they hope to have more. The members are Revenge makes us evil, just as evil as the pe1petrators (of the 6')\. mostly adults, but two middle·school·aged children whose terrorist attacks of Sept. 11)." ~father was called up as a reservist also attend. Names of rmlitary personnel were submitted to the parish by The group, which meets every two weeks, begin their family members and were read during the Mass. U.S. Rep. Dale meetings with prayer, then they talk and share pictures, Kildcc was among those reading the hundreds of names. His list updates, and concerns. There is a phone tree so that mem· mc/uded his two sons who arc currently serving in the armed bers may contact each other between meetings. They sign forces. At the conclusion of the Mass, Klldee spoke briefly. "We cards to send to the servicemen and women, as well as have an obligation to protect our dignity from those wlw steal prayer cards. it," he said. "I have two sons in tl1e military. You have sons and Fr. McKean encourages other parishes to become daughters serving. God bless them, God bless ourselves and God involved in military support groups. "Everybody in the bless America that holds up our guaranteed rights."- Kn1hy Funk country has been touched by the terrorist attacks in some way," he says. For instance, one parishioner from St Patrick had a brother who was killed in the attack on the Pentagon. "It's important that we provide a place and time prayers~ The book listing names of soldiers remains acces· and concern. It's also important that the group take on a sible in the gathering place. It contains 30 or 40 names. life of its own. Every parish will find that each support "We, as a parish, need to keep this group and their families group reacts differently. "Most of all, don't ignore these parishioners. This is get· before the congregation. To maintain the book and keep ting broader and broader. More people are being called up. members of families in the prayers of the faithful," says Fr. McKean. "Members of the Gulf War support group still And, as with grief, it's difficult for others to understand how have relationships with one another." to talk with families involved~ Members say the group is a He concluded, "One hundred per· good place to express their fears with others who share the same concerns. cent of these families are terrified for Fr. McKean encourages other their family members, but they also Fr. McKean says parishes should parishes to become involved in recognize that their loved ones are send blessings regularly, as well as rec· military support groups. " It's ognize parishioners who are being completely dedicated and proud to important that we provide a place be serving their country. It comes called to serve, as St. Patrick Parish did and time and concern:' from the bottom of their hearts." recently with a reservist who was called up. "It helps to cement a face with the - Rollin Lyncl1

What do you think of the war? Log on FAITHmag.com Click Discussion Fonuns

fcbl1lury 2002

FAITH Maga:lno

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EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS

Beauty and the Beast To celebrate the lOth anniversary of Beauty and the Beast, the first animated feature to be nommated for an Academy Av•ard, DISney studios IS re-releasing the film m the gmnt screen lMAX fonnat Viewers near IMAX theatres can now see the classic fmry tale on a truly gmnd scale. Whats more, the convers1on process a decade later allowed the filmmakers to take ad\antage of improved technology to fine-tune the pnnt and background scenes. F.mally, this version includes a vibrant musical number, ··Human Agam: not previously seen, but a welcome addmon to the story. The followmg is part of the original 1991 reVIew: Wuh a wmk toward fans of big·scale movie musicals and a strange take on femimsm, Disney unwraps the mostl) enchanting Beauty and the Beast The opemng song explains how bookworm Belle tvOlce of Pmge OHara} IS considered odd m her 18th-century French village for her wanderlust and wanttng more than a

NEW YORK CSS) -

betrol.halto local hunk Gaston (vmce of Richard Whne) When she finds her eccentnc father (v01ce of Rex Everhart} tmpnsoned m a castle presided over by a fearful beast. Belle offers to stay in exchange for hiS release 'Thus begms the meat of the story as Beast \voice of Robby Benson) IS actually a pnnce who can rerum to human form only if he learns to love, and. despite his appearance. wms love m return The moVIe IS a mulucolored gem. and except for a few hungry wolves and the fact that the Beasts tantrums may fnghten toddlers. its fun for the whole family Mindful of momentanly scary shots, the U S. Conference of Cathohc BIShops classtl'ication is A-1 - general patronage The Mallon Picture Assocmuon of Amenca raung is G general audiences - Gtrri Parr Cachollc Nnos StTVfcc

Editol'l Note: Beauty and the Beast ts currently showmg at the IMAX Theatre located at Henry Forrl Museum, Dearborn. Advance tiCkets are recommended. For m,fom1at1on, call the theatre at (313) 271-1570

Spanish Language Catholic Bestsellers accordmg to the Cathohc Book Pubhshers Assomation 1 Juntos Para "'bddlla VIda Joseph M. Champl'll (l.Jguori)

2 Gatedsmo de Ia Iglesia

c.tollc:a (Our Sunday Visitor and !Doubleday) 3 Vlsltas AI S.ntlslmo San Alfonso Maria De Uguori (Liguori) 4 Catedsmo Beslc:o . . . De San Ptl:*l (Pauline Books)

Masses for the deaf com· muntty will be celebrated by Fr. Michael Depcik, OSFS, at St. John the Evangelist Parish, Fenton, on the following Sundays at 10 a.m.: Feb. 10, 17 and 24. Ash Wednesday services will be held Feb. 13 at 7 p.m. Masses will be celebrated by Fr. Oepcik at Sl Mary Cathedral, Lansing, on the following Sundays at 3 p.m.: Feb. 10, 17 and 24. The deaf community of AM Arbor is inv~ed to Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in the Day Chapel at 6:30 p.m. on the following Sundays: Feb. 9 and 23. Fr. Depcik, who is the sixth deaf man to be ordained in the United States, serves as chaplain for the Diocese of Lansing's deaf community.

A retreat for all church minis· ters entitled Wholly Uvlng, Holy LHe - The Mind, Body, Spirit Dynamic and Connection will be held Feb. 4·7 at St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt. For registration infonnation, call Mary Tardif, director of Ecclesial Lay Ministry for the Diocese of Lansing, at (51 7) 342-2512, or via e-mail: mtardi@dioceseoflansing.org

5 Novena de Nllvldad

H. Flores (P.auhne) 6 Lo Que Usted Debe Saber Sobre la Mlsa Charlene Altemose (Llguori) 7 CanclliO vatican II Doca.maniDs (Pauhne Books) 8 Lo Que Usted Debe Saber Sobre·el cataclsmo de Ia lgl•la Catolca Chartene Abmoee (Llguori) 9 Ire y le Gurare J ose Maria Vtgil (Paubne) 1 o Angelos Compafteros de 1bdos los Diu P. Jonas Abib (Paulmd

The 2002 Theology on Tap Lenten Series for young adults ages 1 8 to 40, single and married, will be held at Trippers Sports Bar of Lansing. The series will get underway Thursday, Feb. 14. Sponsored by Diocese of Lansing's Single and Young Adult Ministry, the four-week speaker series will feature different faith issues of concem for young adults. Scheduled speakers are as follows: • Bishop Carl Mengeling Feb. 14 • Fr. Gerald Gawronski Feb. 21 • Fr. Joseph Krupp

Feb. 28 • Rep. Paul DeWeese

March 7

~On

tap for the series is free admission, infonnal discussions from 7-9 p.m., and a chance to meet new ~eo~e. For infonnation, call 51 ) 342-2494.

The Aint area's third annual Wortd Maniage Day celebration will be held Saturday, Feb. 16. Mass and a renewal of marriage vows win be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church at 4:30 p.m. Couples of all faiths are welcome and no registration is required. A romantic dinner dance will follow at StJohn A~ Center, Davison. lickets are 60 per couple. To register, send your name, address, and phone number to: Worid Marriage Day, P.O. Box 450, Genesee, Ml 48437. Checks are payable to: Worldwide Maniage Encounter. To request seating with family or friends, please note it on the registration and send the reg~lions together, if possible. r infonnation, call (81 0) 743-8026, or log onto: www.woridmarriageday.org --"\IJ~I•Y~\··;I;tJ•ll~[t'J---

February 3

Forlrlh Sunday In Ordinary Time Zephaniah 2:3, 3:12-13 Paalm 146:7· 10 1 Corinthians 1:26·31 Matthew 5:1· 12a February 10

Fifrh Sunday In Ordinary Time Isaiah 58:7· 10 Paalm 11 2:4·Ba, 9 1 Corinthians 2: 1·5 Matthew 5:13· 16 February 17

f irst Sunday of Lenl Genesis 2:7·9; 3;1-7 Psalm 51 :3-6a, 12· 14, 17 Romans 5: 12· 19 or 5:12, 17-19 Matthew 4:1-11 February 24

Stcnnd Sunday of Len! Genesis 12: 1-4a Paalm 33:4-5, 18·20, 22 2 Timothy 1:Bb· 10 Matthew 17: 1·9

A weekly Lenten program, Soup and Substance, will be§in Wednesday, Feb. 20, at t. John Student Parish, East Lansing. Prayer and a soup dinner will begin at 6 p.m. followed by a presentation and discussion at 6:30 p.m. Stations of the Cross will precede at 5:30 p.m. All are welcome. VOICES Regional Meetings The second and final regional VOICES meetings are scheduled as follows: • Feb. 25: Ho~ Family Parish, Grand lane • Feb. 26: St. Rita Parish, Clarklake • Feb. 27: St. Joseph Parish, Dexter • Feb. 28: St. Casimir Parish, Lansing The purpose of the meetings is to review the strategies that will resuh in the implementation of the diocesan goals promulgated during the 2001 Common Conference. Some of the recommended stratgies will involve parishes and regions. All pastors, pastoral coordinators, parochial vicars, parish staff members and VOICES session leadership are encouraged to attend one of these meetings. Daytime meetings will begin with lunch at 11 :30 a.m. and conclude by 2:30 p.m. Evening meetings will begin at 7 p.m. and conclude by 9 p.m. The diocesan strategic pastoral plan will be~ul· gated and distribut at the Mass of Chrism, 2002. For more information, call the Office of Pastoral Planning at (51 7) 342-2501, or e-mail: gguamac@ dioceseoflansing.org A Middle School Youth Rally will be held Saturday, March 2, at Lumen Christi Catholic High School, Jackson. For more infonna· tion, contact your parish youth minister. The Story of SL Therese of Usieux will be presented by the Catholic Drama

FAITH Is av11llable on audiotape by requesL Call (517) 342·2500.

Society at St John the Baptist Parish, Howell, on Sunday, March 3, at 7 p.m. There is no charge, althout donations will be accepted. or informslion, call Michelle at (517) 552-8032 or the church office at (517) 546-7200. Catholic Legislative Day will be held Wednesday, April 17. Hosted by the Diocese of Lansing and cosponsored by the Michigan Catholic Conference and the seven dioceses of Michigan, participants will have an opportunity to gather, discuss issues and meet with state legislators. The day will begin at 9:30a.m. and conelude at 2:30 F'm. lnfonnation wil be sent to parish social ministers and other interested persons. Please contact Michael Liberato, Office of Peace and Justice, Catholic Charities, at mliber@ dioceseoflansing.org or 51 7342· 2466, if you want to be included on the mailing list (or e-mail action alert). Women In Praise of the Sacred is a day of "time out~ or reflection for women of an ages Saturday, April 20, from 9:30 a.m.-3:30p.m. at St. Mary Parish, Durand. Women will have the oppol" tunity to sing and celebrate the sacred in their lives. Also offered will be personal and communal reflection, Scripture and simple body movement. Singer, composer and church musician Kathryn Christian will lead the retreat. All voices are welcome to attend. Sponsored in part by the Diocese of Lansing's Council on Women's Concerns, the retreat includes a breakfast snack and lunch. The cost is $20. Registrations are requested by A~ril 1. Checks, made L:ya le to the Diocese of nsing, can be mailed to: Mary T. Newman, 4075 Squtre Hill Drive, Rushing, Ml48433·3100. For further information, call (81 0) 720-0280.

Remember a Beloved Parish Priest • Fr. Edward O'Grady 3637 McCain Road Countryside Manor Apt 17 Jackson, M I 4 9 203 • Most Rev. Kenneth J. Povish 401-A East Madison DeWitt, Ml 48820 • Fr. Gilbert Rahrig 1873 Eager Road Howell, Ml 48843 • Fr. Leo Ramer 235 Quebec Street Goderich, Ontario N7A2H2 Canada Fr. Charles Irvin Writing Scholarship

FAITH s,;::nsors a Writing Scholars ip for Catholic Hifrl1 Scltool Seniors n appreciation of the efforts of Fr. Charles Irvin's leadership in launchin\} FAITH Magazine and 1n order to encoura~e vocations in Catholic pumalism in our Catholic ht~h schools, FAITH Magazine IS pleased to announce a new scholal" ship. The first annual Fr. Charles Irvin Scholarship wiU be awarded this spring to a Catholic high school senior who writes the best essay concerning: How does yourfaith fit into mainstream society? The winner will receive a $500 scholarship and the essay will be~ublished in our special F. ITH Teen issue in September. The essays of the finalists from the other three Catholic hi~h schools will be publis ed on FAITHmag.com. Entries answering the question concerning faith and mainstream society are due April 1, 2002. The length of the essay should be approximately 800 words. Submissions should be sent to FAITH Ma~azine, Fr. Irvin Scholarship try, 300 w. Ottawa, Lansing, Ml 48933. For more infonnation, log on to FAITHma~.com or contact Patrick O'Bnen at (51 7) 342-2595. fcl>ruurv 2002

fAITH Mogo:in~

Celebrato Catholic Schools Week Jan 27·Feb 2. Following Is o list of Catholic Schools within tho lnnslng Dlocoso: (Elementary Schools) Charlotte ~ ~ \ ''" '

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Doug amllltave learned a

very important lesson about Catltolic schools wltidt goes beyond the academics - the

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Oh, it's the most wonderful

time of the year!

cfore you stan wondering if I'm still celebrating the holidays (hopefully the Funk family Christmas tree will be down by the time you're reading this), or if I'm really looking forward to Valentines Day (I'm not -chocolate really isn't my thing), I am ready to celebrate Catholic Schools Week. Yes, I said Catholic Schools Week. The way I sec it, I don't have to be a student or a teacher at a Catholic school to celebrate - although paJama day docs sound like a lot of fun! I'm something just as important. I'm a parent of a student enrolled in a Catholic school , and I thank God everyday for the education my son is receiving. The decision to send Adam to a Catholic school was one that my husband, Doug, and I made long before we knew there was even going to be an Adam in our lives. We both knew that a Catholic education stressed academics and self-discipline and that was cxaclly what we wanted for our future child. And this was coming from two people who ;mended public schools (and one of whom is not even Catholic)! In fact, I'm not sure I had even stepped foot in a parochial school until I started working for the Catl10lic Times newspaper (my first assignment, interestingly enough, was covering the 50th anniversary of St. john Vianney School in Fhnt). So, once we settled in Flushing a few years ago, the first place we scouted out was St. Robert Bcllarminc Parish. wuh an eye specifically towards the school. We knew we had made a good decision when a friend of ours- a retired Flushing public school teacher - asked which elementary Adam would be attending. We answered St. Roberts. Her reply: "Oh, that's an excellent school! ~ Granted, I might have been a bit obsesstve-compulsivc about the matter when I made Doug take Adam's enrollment papers to the school the morning AFTER kindergarten round-up. I prided myself on being prompt - he chided me once he found out there really wasn't a waiting line of parents as soon as the school

opened with their enrollment papers in hand. Oh, well. Adam was in and that was all that mattered. And we haven't regrcued our decision once. OK, my heart was a little broken when Adam came home from one of his first days in kindergarten and said, "Oh, Mommy, Mrs. Pelikan has the most beauuful face. She looks just like an angel.~ Suddenly there was another woman in his life besides me, but it didn't matter for long. Mrs. Pelikan was an angel and I can't imagine anyone bcuer suited to a vocation as a teacher than she is. And so is Ms. Strickland , our first grade teacher. You read that right, our first grade teacher. St. Robcn, just like every parochial school throughout the Diocese of Lansing, stresses the relationship between home and school. We're all in this together. There isn't anything more important to me than going through Adam's blue folder when I get home from work every mght. I can't wait to sec what he has learned and he can't wait to show me his ~stars ." Doug and I have learned a very tmporlant lesson about Catholic schools which goes beyond the academics - the presence of Chnst. I know thts is something that should have come as a gtven but It was one aspect we hadn't thought of too much. It's hard to describe but knowing that jesus is at the heart of Adams education is one that we fmd comforting. It's almost as if jesus has whtspcrcd, · Don't worry. I'll look after him and guide him.· And tf that isn't reason enough to celebrate Catholic Schools Week, I don't know what is. - 1\adry frrnh Celobralo catholic Education During Catholic: Sr:hool1 W"k Jan 27 - Feb. 2

placestopray From Our Readers By Abby and Christian McCullough

Parish welcomes new pastoral c:oordjnator With much anticipation and standing room only, Bishop Carl F. Mcngcling celebrated the installation of Jean Schaub as pastoral coordinator of Sl. Mary on the Lake Parish, Manitou Beach. The celebration was held on the feast of the Holy Family. Schaub gave praise to those who helped her through her journey. "I will seck your counsel," Schaub n·aid. ") thank my family who nunurcd me all my life and Queen of the Miraculous Medal Parish in Jackson who prepared me. You all will be in my prayers and m my life." - Lillcrl• or•.,,.

Passed Into Eternal Life

Olympic flame memories bum bright for Genesee County woman The Catholic Tim.s

Sylvia Knoblauch. a snowbird from Holy Redeemer Church, Burton, who spends her winters in Texas, was selected from more than 200,000 applicants to carry the Olympic flame on its journey to the 2002 Winter Olympic games in Salt Lake City, Utah. "Oh my, ... I was so overwhelmed," said Knoblauch. ''I was so overwhelmed that I stancd to cry when I saw the flame. It was such a big honor for me ... " Knoblauch, a retired Flint GM employee, was nominated by long time friend and co-worker Marcy Garcia who said her love of God and life made her the ideal candidate. Knoblauch was selected after Garcia wrote an essay about her. She was one of just 11,500 people from across the United States to be selected. - frl11 Odltley

ur parish is Sl Mary of Good Counsel in Adrian. This is what makes our parish special: • Children's Church. • It teaches us how to love God. • It is Catholic. • The singing! • Mary is the name of our church and the name of Jesus' mother. • We have beautiful statues of holy people. • We get to have breakfast there at the end of church. • I made my first Communion there. • It is big and it has fans. • We go to meetings about religious education. • The family program of religious education. • Everybody talks to everybody. • We love baptisms during Mass. • Our director of religious education has the same name as our church and as the mother of Jesus. WOW! • We give food to the poor. • We feel part of God's family. • Our priest, Fr. Tom, is funny; tells stories about his life (you can leam a lot about life from a bowl of Skittles"); is cool and gives us high fives; teases us and blesses us.

What makes your parish special? Send your response of 250 to 300 words to: PlACES TO PRAY, FAITH Magazine 300 W Ottawa Lansing, MI 48933 or e-mail: hfunh@dioccseojlansing.org If your response is chosen for future publication, you will receive a one-year FAITH gift subscription for the recipient of your choice.

Flint Powers' Lady Chargers Repeat

Deacon Michael T. lynch Arguably the best Flint 11/ 18/35-12/ 18/01 Powers Catholic High Ordained Dec. 5, 1987 We arc deeply saddened by School team in school his· his death and extend our con- tory claimed its second dolences to his family. We will consecutive Class B girls' also miss his VISits to our office basketball title. Powers roared from behind to defeat 1- sharing story ideas on makPing life better for neglected Detroit Country Day 54-53 to children. His urclcss work was wm the title and complete a perfect 28-0 season. the first highlighted in the December in school htstory. By powering 2000 issue of FAITH. :JryundMJddlcSchools) AnnArbor \• ! •.,,

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Michigan Catholic Conference Building Under Construction

thctr way through the tough tournament run, Powers Catholic kept alive a winning streak that now extends to 48 games over two seasons.

MCC President Sr. Monica Kostielney. RSM. and Cardinal Adam Maida of Detroit tour the construction site located south of the state capitol in Lansing. The buildmg is to be complete by MCCs 40th anniversary in 2003.

- Rrcu Mcldugl•lln, The Cadwllc Tlnocs

- Tom fdrrdl, The C<1llwllc Times

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Online: On TV:

www.Dioceseoflanslng.org www.FAITHmeg.com The Outr.edl Mesa, Sunday,10 em. Flint - FOX 66 Lansing - FOX 47

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

Special Pull-Out Section for Your Soul from Bethany House and St. Francis Retreat Center