Salute - Fall 2012

FALL 2012

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES , USA

Dear Friends of the Archdiocese for the Military Services,

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t is now time for autumn activities to begin anew. Schools reopen.

Catholic communities activate their pastoral year and religious education classes encourage both the young and the more mature to deepen their knowledge of the faith.

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his year we have a special impetus in that task of renewal. It is the Year of Faith, which will begin on October 11th, fifty years after the opening of the First Session of the Second Vatican Council. It offers us as a faith community an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the documents and evaluate how they have been a vehicle for authentic renewal of the Church and, more importantly, of each member of the Church.

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he Archdiocese for the Military Services will celebrate this year with a variety of activities. I pray that they will provide useful vehicles for us to deepen our faith, celebrate that faith, and announce our hope to others, as well.

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he fall also brings with it the return of the AMS co-sponsored seminarians to their respective houses of formation. The months of May and June were filled with profound joy as seven men were ordained to the priesthood for their dioceses and eventual service to the Archdiocese for the Military Services. It was my privilege to participate prayerfully in four of those important events. Monsignor Pugliese and Father Abbott represented the Archdiocese at the other three and at the two deacons’ ordinations.

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n this issue of Salute, I would like you to meet some of the new co-sponsored seminarians and hear their inspiring stories. They fill us with hope for the future and remind us of the potential of the military communities to meet their own spiritual needs and also those of the Church at large. We can all rejoice in the potential of their service, the quality of their response, and the enthusiasm they bring.

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will also join the Auxiliary Bishops in telling you about some of our recent pastoral visitations. The miles are many, but the wonderful people continue to inspire our response to the demands of ministry to them.

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hope that you will enjoy this issue. Thanking you for your continued support, I wish you good beginnings for a new pastoral year.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio Archbishop

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THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA VOLUME 6. NUMBER 3 FALL 2012

TABLE of CONTENTS 4

Rejoicing in Ordained Ministry Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio

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Bishop Higgins Odyssey 2012 Visits to Hawaii and Alaska Bishop Neal Buckon

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No Stone Unturned Bishop F. Richard Spencer

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AMS Year of Faith Pilgrimage 2013 Monsignor Frank Pugliese

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Discerning God’s Call Father Kerry Abbott, OFM Conv.

30-49 The Blessings Continue Meet the newest co-sponsored Seminarians.

The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA publishes SALUTE for the nation’s bishops, active, retired military, VA military chaplains, and financial supporters of the Archdiocese.

FALL 2012

THE MAGAZINE OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES , USA

ADDRESS CHANGES AND NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please send title, name, address, and phone number to: support@milarch.org or call: 202-719-3600 or write: Development Office, Archdiocese for

the Military Services, P.O. Box 4469, Washington, D.C. 20017-0469 Feedback, letters to the editor: editor@milarch.org Website: www.milarch.org LOGO ON THE COVER: Archbishop Rino Fisichella, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evan-

gelization, said that the “significance of the logo is very simple.” “The boat is the sign of the Church, and you can see this is a moment of movement. We also have the cross, and the cross is the sign of love, it is the sign of our faith. And together with the cross there is the sign of the Eucharist, and the Eucharist for us is at the center of our lives, it is the center of the life of faith.”

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO President

MONSIGNOR FRANK A. PUGLIESE Editorial Director

JO ANN REDMOND Editor

ERIC NEUNER | RPISTUDIOS Design Director

© 2012 - A PUBLICATION OF THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA - SERVING CATHOLICS IN THE ARMY, NAVY, AIR FORCE, MARINE CORPS, COAST GUARD,VA MEDICAL CENTERS, AND GOVERNMENT SERVICES OVERSEAS.

By ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO

REJOICING IN ORDAINED MINISTRY

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO (LEFT CENTER) AT THE SOLEMN MASS OF INSTALLATION OF THE REVEREND MONSIGNOR JAMES BURNETT (RIGHT FRONT) AS PRELATE OF HONOR OF HIS HOLINESS POPE BENEDICT XVI

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fter making pastoral visits to the Air Force installations in Great Britain, I spent a few days in London on my way to the International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes. There was an opportunity to visit the Tower of London and contemplate again the courage and the witness of many English martyrs. Of course, Saints Thomas More and John Fisher stand out in that great company of those who would not renounce their faith, even at the cost of their lives. / 4 FA L L 2 0 12

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t is good to be reminded of that commitment and to pray for the same courage in the face of opposition or persecution. The gift of the fullness of the Holy Spirit in the sacrament of Confirmation empowers us to give witness throughout our lives to that faith which animates our actions, speech, decisions, and thoughts.

We are called to do so in and out of season.

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hose were my reflections as I joined our faithful pilgrims in Lourdes and considered how the Blessed Virgin Mary always leads us to a deeper faith in Jesus Christ. She always inspires our response to His will for us.

PERSONAL ORDINARIATE OF THE CHAIR OF SAINT PETER: The Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of Saint Peter is a personal ordinariate of the Catholic Church within the territory of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops for those groups of Anglicans who desire full communion with the Catholic Church.

As a personal ordinariate, it is immediately subject to the Holy See in Rome. It was established on January 1, 2012 in accordance with the apostolic constitution Anglicanorum coetibus of Pope Benedict XVI.

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mong the many visits and activities that were mine in the months of May and June, none stand out as much as the sacerdotal ordinations of the co-sponsored candidates and the tribute to an outstanding Veterans’ Administration chaplain. Of course, it would have been my desire to assist at all of the ordinations, but pastoral commitments and the inability to bi-locate made that impossible.

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was indeed pleased to assist at the ordinations in Baltimore of Fathers Stephen Cotter and David Reamsnyder, in Lubbock, Texas of Father Brian Wood, and in Sioux Falls, South Dakota of Father Andrew Young.

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ach celebration was unique and reflected both the place and the personalities of the ordaining Prelates. At all of the ordinations there were warm words of welcome directed to me, but really in recognition of the commitment and service both of the men and women in uniform and of the priests who minister as chaplains in the military and in

the VA system. It was a special privilege to receive first blessings from the co-sponsored priests!

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n Baltimore, newly installed Archbishop William Lori reflected on the Lord’s call to those about to be ordained priests. In a gloss on the Lord’s question to Simon Peter, “Do you love Me?” he asked each ordinand to hear that question and the command “Feed my sheep” to be directed to him. The new priests could not fail to consider how much the Lord loves them and how He will lead them in their future service. (continued on page 6) FA L L 2 0 12

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REJOICING IN ORDAINED MINISTRY

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fter the ordination I was pleased to meet Father Reamsnyder’s wife and two children. He was ordained for the Chair of Peter Ordinariate and hopes to serve in the Navy in the future.

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also was able to spend some time with Father Cotter’s parents and some of his siblings, one of whom is a Nashville Dominican Nun. The relaxed atmosphere allowed a good exchange of memories, questions, and aspirations for the future. Monsignor John McLaughlin also joined me for that ordination. It was good to see him and to know of his continued support. Father Cotter is a priest of the Archdiocese of Baltimore and hopes to serve in the Army, where he had been a Chaplain’s Assistant.

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une 23rd found me in Lubbock,Texas where Bishop Placido Rodriguez ordained Father Brian Wood and Father Joseph Palacios to the priesthood. The Cathedral was filled to overflowing and the festive mood was even more pervasive. Almost every priest of the diocese was present along with many friends of the two ordinands, as well. In fact, I was pleased to meet two of Father Wood’s classmates from Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit who were recently ordained. They vested him.

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ater there was an opportunity to meet Father Wood’s parents, sister, and many friends at a reception hosted by the Catholic War Veterans and the Knights of Columbus at his home parish. I arrived early and consequently was able to make a visit to the

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(continued from page 5)

church where he would celebrate his first Mass of Thanksgiving. The Texas hospitality was appreciated by all. Father Wood hopes to return to the Air Force as a chaplain.

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iven that it was only two hours away, I made a very brief pastoral visit to Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico. It was good to see Father Michael Tenorio and celebrate the Solemnity of St. John the Baptist with the Catholic community there.

The abundant pot-luck brunch afterward provided an opportunity to meet the faithful as well as sustenance for the drive back to the Lubbock Airport.

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owever, before I boarded the rental car for the drive back, Lt. Thomas Pressley, whom I had known at the Air Force Academy, gave me a tour of the control tower. The view was great and the explanation by the three airmen on duty was informative.

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he final ordination of this season was in Sioux Falls, South Dakota where the intense summer heat was only surpassed by the genuine Midwest welcome. Bishop Swain even sent a seminarian to meet me at the airport. Not too many bishops are eager to have their seminarians meet the Archbishop for the Military Services.

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here are probably as many ways to prepare for ordination as there are ordinands. Not too many, however, include time on a tennis court. Soon to be Father Young was merciful to me—he only beat me

6-2 twice! I consider being given two games each set a measure of mercy.

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he next day Father Young and his two companions were ordained priests by Bishop Paul Swain in the magnificent Cathedral of St. Joseph. I saw it before it was remodeled and the positive change is dramatic.

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ishop Swain read the instruction from the ordination rite and then commented on the application to ministry in the diocese. The ceremony was beautiful and the music was superb. The fact that it took place on the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul reminded us once again of the importance of witness in our lives of faith.

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ot too many people can get lost in Sioux Falls, but some road closings made my trip to the reception the evening of the ordination a bit more interesting than I would have chosen. It was grand to spend time with the new priest’s parents, sister, brother, and their children. In three years Father Young should be donning a Navy uniform once again.

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he other joyful June event was the celebration of Monsignor James Burnett’s reception of Papal Honors. At my request the Secretary of State of His Holiness numbered Monsignor Burnett among the Prelates of Honor with the title Reverend Monsignor.

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n June 21st the staff of the Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital joined with the

family and friends of Monsignor Burnett to celebrate this honor with a Mass, receptions, and a dinner. It was truly heartening to hear the patients, staff, and the other chaplains speak so appreciatively about his leadership, kindness, and unfailing pastoral attention to so many.

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n my homily at the Mass concelebrated also by Bishop Martin Amos of Davenport, Monsignor Burnett’s home diocese, I stressed how important it was to give thanks.

Indeed in honoring this particular VA chaplain, I wanted to honor all of those who so selflessly give of their time and talents to serve others. The Archdiocese for the Military Services does not emphasize often enough the contributions of the VA chaplains to the ministry of this global particular Church!

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onsignor Burnett’s service, as well as his leadership for the NCVACC, has contributed immensely to the Archdiocese. It was a pleasure to celebrate the concession of Papal Honors to him.

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aints Thomas More and John Fisher are honored as martyrs, witnesses to the faith. Each of us is called to be a witness and each one is encouraged by those that the Lord puts in his or her path. Monsignor Burnett will continue to be a good witness and we await the contributions that seven new priests and two new deacons, all drawn from the ranks of the AMS co-sponsored, will make. >

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Bishop Higgins’

ODYSSEY 2012 ——— By BISHOP RICHARD B. HIGGINS ———

LEFT TO RIGHT: BISHOPE RICHARD B. HIGGINS AND FATHER ROBERT MCCABE (IEC IRISH ARMY CHAPLAINS)

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here to resume the odyssey? Perhaps Holy Week, spent in the Tidewater Area of Virginia might be best. This historic region of Virginia contains a variety of military and VA installations including Oceana Naval Air Station, Joint Base Little Creek-Fort Storey, Norfolk Naval Base, Norfolk Naval Air Station, Joint Base Langley-Fort Eustis, Yorktown Naval Weapons Station and Hampton VA Medical Center. The region is served by a combination of active duty, GS (DOD civilian) and contract priests and is host to the largest concentration of military on the Eastern seaboard.

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ass of the Lord’s Supper was celebrated at Oceana with Father Les Sikorski’s (USN) community and the liturgy of Good Friday was celebrated with Father John Lyle’s (USN) community at Joint Base (JB) Little Creek/Fort Storey.

JB Langley/Fort Eustis and Bethel Manor provided the location for a memorable celebration of the Easter Vigil and Confirmation the following afternoon. Father Eugene Kole’s legendary attention to detail guaranteed superb, solemn and dignified celebrations on both occasions. The weekend of 14/15 April found me at JB Fort Dix/McGuire (Father Zenon Bochnak) and Hanscom AFB, Boston (Father Larry Smith S.J., and just-arrived Father Kevin Cody, USAF).

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was back home in D.C. for the following 10 days during which I assisted Bishop Paul Loverde of the diocese of Arlington and celebrated seven Confirmations in Lake Ridge, Culpeper, Middleburg, Fairfax and South Riding, VA. Then it was back in the air to Fort Jackson (Father Ed Kelley), Shaw (Father Marty Fitzgerald) and Charleston Air Force Bases (Father Gil Garcia) enroute to MacDill AFB (Father Juan Diphe) and the exceptional Air Force priests’ retreat at Bethany Retreat Center in Lutz, FL, just north of Tampa.

I was privileged to join thousands of the faithful on 16 May to celebrate the installation of Archbishop William Lori as the 16th Archbishop of Baltimore succeeding our former Archbishop and now His Eminence Edwin Cardinal O’Brien, Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre. Shortly thereafter it was back “on the circuit” and off to the Naval Training

Center (Father Valdemar Kilian) in Great Lakes, Ill. followed by a wild dash out west to Ellsworth (Deacon Daniel) and Minot (Father Mark McGregor) Air Force Bases.

Then it was back across the northern tier to Fort Drum, N.Y. via Albany where I made a brief visit to Bishop Estabrook’s grave. The spring visitation circuit concluded with visits to MCB Parris Island (Father Peter Sheehan), MCB Camp Lejeune (Father Eric Hoog) and Fort Lee (Father Thomas Kirchhoefer).

I was ready for a break so I headed home to Ireland for a few weeks to celebrate my brother’s 70th birthday, the opening ceremonies of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress, my 50th high school reunion at St. Mel’s College and a nine-day escorted tour of my homeland with dear friends from my days at Bitburg AB and RAF Lakenheath.

A few words about the International Eucharistic Congress. Most of you are (continued on page 10) FA L L 2 0 12

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Bishop Higgins’ Odyssey 2012 aware of the challenging situation facing the Catholic Church in Ireland, of the diminishing role of organized religion in the public square, of the militant secularism that has overtaken the country in recent years and of the hostile media. Against this background the Church gathered in Dublin 10-17 June to celebrate the presence of Christ in the Eucharist, His presence in communion with us and one another. It was an amazing and astonishing experience and it was my privilege to represent our archdiocese at the opening ceremonies and Mass presided over by His Eminence Marc Cardinal Ouillet. In excess of 12,500 pilgrims attended the opening day under a brilliant sky on the grounds of the Royal Dublin Society. Seminars and presentations throughout the week drew standing-room only crowds of local and international pilgrims and the concluding ceremonies in the famed stadium of Croke Park drew an estimated 72,000 pilgrims.

One of the many displays during the

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Congress was a striking encampment sponsored by the Irish Armed Forces.

“Since Ireland became a member of the United Nations on 14 December 1955, not a single day has passed without the presence of Defense Forces personnel deployed somewhere around the world in the service of peace” reads the opening paragraph of one of the many pamphlets prepared by the Irish Chaplaincy and distributed to their personnel. Chaplain, Father Robert McCabe, stationed at Gormanstown Camp, shared many of his deployment stories with me and together we reflected on what a privilege it is to serve men and women in uniform.

Returning home to the D.C. area the last week of June I was privileged to represent the AMS on July 4th at the concluding liturgy celebrating the “Fortnight for Freedom.” This time of “prayer, study, catechesis and peaceful public action” was an outreach of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops to

ABOVE: IEC ARMAGH DELEGATION

“remind ourselves and others all throughout the United States about the importance of preserving the fundamental right of religious freedom.” His Eminence Donald Cardinal Wuerl was the principal celebrant at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and Archbishop Charles Chaput of Philadelphia delivered the homily in the presence of Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganó, the Apostolic Nuncio to the United States. Thousands of faithful from across the nation gathered at the Shrine to express their prayerful concern for the erosion of a fundamental right to

freedom of religion, a right that men and women in uniform, subjects of this archdiocese, risk their lives to defend.

As we swelter through a D.C. summer I am conscious of the enormous privilege that is mine to provide for the spiritual needs of our veterans in VA Medical Centers, active duty, reserve and National Guard men and women in uniform and their families. I am always grateful for your continued prayerful support of my ministry and I ask once more for stamina to continue this truly awesome journey of faith. God bless you and yours. >

It is with great sadness that the passing of Bishop Richard B. Higgins’ younger brother, Frank Higgins is announced. The Archdiocesan Community joins the Higgins Family in praying for his immortal soul. Let us also pray for the consolation of his sons Julian and Stephen and the other members of the family.

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Bishop Buckon Visits

Hawaii and Alaska ——— By BISHOP NEAL BUCKON ———

LEFT TO RIGHT: FATHER ELBERT FADALLAN, BISHOP NEAL BUCKON, LT. GEN. STEPEN L. HOOG, ARCHBISHOP ROGER L. SCHWIETZ

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n May of 2012, I visited our military bases and garrisons in the 49th and 50th States. I travelled first to Hawaii, the 50th State of the United States. It is the only State that is made up entirely of islands. My first stop was the U.S. Army Garrison – Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA) on the Big Island (Hawaii).

Although the training area is 108,863 acres of volcanic plain, there are endangered species there, 10 plants and nine animals on the endangered species list, and the Army is mandated to protect them.

Soldiers from Schofield Barracks and Marines from Kaneohe Marine Corps Base on the island of Oahu were at the PTA for training. On a beautiful Sunday morning I greeted the Soldiers and Marines with “Aloha” as they entered the tidy PTA Chapel for Mass. They smiled and answered with, “Aloha.” ALOHA is a Hawaiian word meaning; “Hello, Goodbye, Love, Compassion, Welcome and Good Wishes.” It certainly was an appropriate greeting as the faithful gathered to celebrate Sunday Mass.

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then flew to Honolulu to celebrate four Confirmation Masses and visit the Catholic communities of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines on the island known as Oahu.

In the course of a week, I celebrated Masses with large vibrant Catholic Communities at Schofield Barracks, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, and Kaneohe Marine Corps Base.The Military Council of Catholic Women (MCCW) held their well-attended and exciting monthly program at the chapel on the Aliamanu Military Reservation. I also visited the Tripler Army Medical Center for a briefing on the outstanding Catholic-specific ministry being provided on a daily basis to Catholic patients; and was given a tour of the hospital.

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ne of the joys of a pastoral visit is to recognize and commend the priests who work very hard to provide sacramental ministry and pastoral care; and teach and preach. I certainly enjoyed priestly fraternity and celebrating Mass with Army Chaplains: Father Gary Gross and Father Mark Mastin; Navy Chaplains: Father Sal Aguilera and Father Jon Brzek; Air Force Chaplain: Father Joe Deichert; Marine Corps Chaplain: Father Bob Delis; Hospital Chaplain: Father Louis H. Albrecht; and Contract Priest: Father Larry Fisher.

On May 18th, I arrived in Kodiak, Alaska. Alaska is the 49th State of the United States. It is also known as the “Final Frontier.” Navy Chaplain, Father John Monahan, S.J., met me at the airport and drove me to the United States Coast Guard Station on Kodiak Island. Kodiak is the second largest island in the United States.

Only the Big Island (Hawaii) is greater in size. This was my first visit to Kodiak and Father Monahan made sure that I would be given the opportunity to become familiar with the Coast Guard’s important operational mission in the air and on the sea of

an area so vast that it is nearly equal to one half the size of the Continental United States. Father Monahan seeks to keep the spirit of the crews strong, because many of the rescue missions are dangerous operations.

From Kodiak I traveled to Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) which is situated near Anchorage. Archbishop Roger L. Schwietz, Archbishop of Anchorage, and I called upon Lieutenant General Stephen L. Hoog, Commander of the Alaskan Command. It is wonderful to see the exceptionally good relations that exist between the military and civil communities. In many cases, these communities intersect in the local civilian churches. Many Catholic military families find housing off-post and attend Mass and religious education classes in the churches of the neighboring diocese. Archbishop Schwietz and his priests open the doors of the churches in Anchorage and welcome the Catholic service members and their families who reside in town.

Meanwhile, on JBER Air Force Chaplain Father Elbert Falladan and Army (continued on page 54) FA L L 2 0 12

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NO STONE UNTURNED! ——— By BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER ———

BISHOP F. RICHARD SPENCER SETTING OUR COMMUNITIES AFIRE WITH ZEAL FOR VOCATIONS.

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his past Spring and Summer as I continued traveling the Europe and Asia military bases, the standard question kept being repeated: “Bishop, we need more priests for our Military Chapel communities – can we have another?” And my response: “they are here with us today – they are sitting in our chapel pews; they are hanging out at the PX/BX; they are in our Confirmation Classes – they are to be found wearing military boots and they are wearing our Nation’s clothing – the military uniform!”

Then I continue to speak on how we all have a role and responsibility to help identify “them”; encourage them; and help them to “see” how these future seminary candidates can share their God-given gifts of compassion, good listening skills and a strong and sincere desire to serve “God and Country”!

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We need priests and members of Religious Communities to help enable the Church to fulfill her mission.

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continue to be impressed with the confirmation classes that I visit and how well prepared they are to say “YES” to joining our beloved Catholic Church and to follow Jesus. There was one young person in Wiesbaden, Germany, this past May who at the age of 15, told us that he is eager to attend seminary as he truly wants to live a holy life while helping others in their discovery of Jesus in their lives. Then there was another young person in Yongson, Korea, in April, who (at the age of 16) told me and his confirmation group that he is ready to “sign-up” today to attend Seminary as he views priesthood as an opportunity to assist his family and friends towards Heaven!

He clearly intends to be “in heaven” and wants all of his loved ones to be there as well, is what he shared with our group.

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n a recent pastoral visit with our troops in Kosovo there was a group of American and Polish soldiers who stayed after Mass to discuss and share stories about vocations in their own local communities. Together we learned that in Poland it usually is a family decision about who in the family can best serve the needs of the Church and then the entire family prays and supports the one who is asked to serve on behalf of the family. Thanks be to God that in our Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, that we have a great diversity of priests who come from various cultures and nationalities who help to serve the needs of our military chapel communities.

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he “Church” has one mission, one purpose, and one plan entrusted to her by the Lord Jesus. The Church is to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ to the whole world, to celebrate the Sacraments that make His saving mysteries available to all people until he comes again in glory, and to serve the needs of an ailing humanity in a spirit of mercy and compassion. That is her perennial mission. In every age and in every place, the Church must link this mission to the particular circumstance of people living in a given period.

We all must remain faithful to what God has entrusted to us. We need priests and members of Religious Communities to help enable the Church to fulfill her mission.

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onest and respectful relationships, witness and invitation are the keys to resolving our vocation shortage.

Our chaplains and members of the military chapel community are in the best position to evaluate, screen, support and invite prospective vocations. The AMS always follows-up on referrals. So, perhaps the next question following...

“HEY BISHOP, CAN WE HAVE ANOTHER?” – is “Hey, can YOU give God one to serve?” Let no stone be unturned. > FA L L 2 0 12

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AMS Year of Faith

Pilgrimage 2013 ——— By MONSIGNOR PUGLIESE ———

he International Military Pilgrimage (PMI) was established in 1946 to promote reconciliation, peace and healing after World War II. This charism remains a grace today through the Sacrament of Reconciliation for many and the unity of prayer for all.

Every year for one weekend in May, Lourdes, France becomes “home” to a world-wide military family representing over 35 nations. Under the maternal protection of the Mother of God, Lourdes is transformed into a place of prayer, peace and healing for active duty members and veterans of the Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Air Force.

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s part of our Year of Faith activities, AMS will sponsor a Wounded and Disabled Veteran Pilgrimage to Lourdes in May 2013. This pilgrimage will occur at the same time as the PMI. AMS will partner with the Knights of Columbus and Our Lady of Lourdes Hospitality North American Volunteers to ensure appropriate and coordinated support for sponsored pilgrims.

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ost AMS-sponsored pilgrims will be housed within the Sanctuaries of the Accueil Notre-Dame, a hospital-bed facility overlooking the Grotto where Blessed John Paul II stayed in 2004. Active duty families stationed in Europe, active duty U.S. pilgrims traveling from Europe and the United States, and AMS-sponsored pilgrims will join together at Lourdes during the PMI pilgrimage – and AMS will coordinate activities to ensure PMI participants and AMS Pilgrimage participants are allowed to support and fellowship with each other within the Lourdes Sanctuaries.

And we know that for many participants, Lourdes will be a place where they will discover God, deepen their faith, and reconnect with fellow warriors after deployment.

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rchbishop Broglio, who has experienced this pilgrimage says,

Three times in the last “ five years, it has been my privilege to accompany the U.S. pilgrims. It is a rich experience of the universality of the Church. Catholic men and women from the Armed Services around the world pray for peace and spend time together at the ‘heart’ of the Church.

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he highlight for everyone making the journey to Lourdes will be the Grotto, the touchstone to heaven where the Immaculate Mary appeared 18 times in 1858.

It is in this place that Bernadette contemplated the mysteries of the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ united in prayer with His holy Mother.

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n the upcoming Year of Faith, the t is our prayer that amidst the comfort of Archdiocese for the Military Services our American military family and in the would like to make this event an important confidence of our extended international time of prayer and healing. > military families, Lourdes will become a place of healing for the interior wounds for information, go to: of war for AMS-sponsored wounded and www.milarch.org/lourdes disabled warriors and their family members.

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AN AWESOME 4 OF JULY TH

——— By MONSIGNOR PUGLIESE ———

MEMBERS OF THE CLERGY PROCESS DOWN CENTER AISLE OF THE BASILICA OF THE NATIONAL SHIRE IN OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION IN WASHINGTON, D.C., JULY 4 IN THE CLOSING MASS OF THE BISHOPS’ “FORTNIGHT FOR FREEDOM” CAMPAIGN. THE OBSERVANCE, WHICH BEGAN WITH A JUNE 21 MASS IN BALTIMORE, MD, WAS A TWO-WEEK PERIOD OF PRAYER, EDUCATION AND ACTION ON PRESERVING RELIGIOUS FREEDOM IN THE U.S.

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here are times when something happens that is so overwhelming as to shake a person out of complacency and be able to speak words like, “WOW,” or “AWESOME,” or “UNBELIEVABLE”.

One of those events happened to me on July 4th when all Americans celebrated their independence and freedom.

Bishop Higgins and I went to represent the Archdiocese for the Military Services at the closing Mass of the Fortnight for Freedom at the National Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.

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© CNS PHOTO/BOB ROLLER

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hen we decided to go, we knew that Cardinal Wuerl was to be the celebrant, and we knew that Archbishop Chaput was to be the homilist.

What we never expected was the crowd of almost 5,000 people in a basilica that holds about 3,200. What we really did not expect was about 180 priests and bishops who gathered to concelebrate the closing Mass.

Archbishop Chaput, speaking about liberty in his homily, said, “This is the freedom of the sons and daughters of God. It’s the freedom of Miguel Pro, Mother Teresa, Maximillian Kolbe, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, and all the other holy women and men who have gone before us to do the right thing, the heroic thing, in the face of suffering and adversity. This is the kind of freedom that can transform the world.” This is the freedom fought for by St. Thomas More, whose feast began the Fortnight for Freedom and by the very meaning of Independence Day that closed the fortnight.

The Fortnight For Freedom was called for by the United States Catholic Conference of Bishops as a time for prayer, study and action to highlight threats to religious liberty in the United States and abroad. The bishops do not and never have opposed universal health care. They have not and do not advocate the total repeal of the Affordable Care Act. In fact, they have advocated for the availability of affordable health care, especially for the poor. The Affordable Care Act, however, allows the use of federal funds to pay for elective abortions and for plans that cover such abortions, in opposition to longstanding federal policy. The act fails to include necessary language to provide essential conscience protection. This lack of conscience protection is highlighted in the “preventive services” mandate, which forces religious and other

employers to cover sterilization and contraception, including abortion-inducing drugs.

This initiative by the bishops is not about abortion, sterilization or birth control, it is much more. It is about Religious Liberty, which is guaranteed in the very first amendment to the Constitution. Learn more at the bishops’ website: www.usccb.org or fortnight4freedom.org. Or text the word “Freedom” to 3777377. Be informed.

Pray for Religious Liberty. >

Prayer for the Protection of Religious Liberty O God our Creator, from your provident hand we have received our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. You have called us as your people and given us the right and the duty to worship You, the only true God, and your Son, Jesus Christ. Through the power and working of your Holy Spirit, You call us to live out our faith in the midst of the world, bringing the light and the saving truth of the Gospel to every corner of society.

We ask You to bless us in our vigilance for the gift of religious liberty. Give us the strength of mind and heart to readily defend our freedoms when they are threatened; give us courage in making our voices heard on behalf of the rights of your Church and the freedom of conscience of all people of faith.

Grant, we pray, O heavenly Father, a clear and united voice to all your sons and daughters gathered in your Church in this decisive hour in the history of our nation, so that, with every trial withstood and every danger overcome— for the sake of our children, our grandchildren, and all who come after us—this great land will always be “one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

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YEAR OF FAITH October 11, 2012 - November 24, 2013 ——— By MARK MOITOZA, M. DIV. ———

POPE BENEDICT XVI ADDRESSING A GENERAL AUDIENCE AT THE POPE PAUL VI AUDIENCE HALL.

Reflection on the faith will have to be intensified “ so as to help all believers in Christ to acquire a more conscious and vigorous adherence to the Gospel, especially at a time of profound change such as humanity is currently experiencing.

(Porta Fidei, No. 8)

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ope Benedict XVI has declared an Annus Fidei (Year of Faith) to begin on October 11th. This date celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council and the twentieth anniversary of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. During this year Catholics are asked to study the documents of Vatican II and the Catechism so that they may deepen the knowledge of their faith.

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he Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA will promote several initiatives to encourage Catholics in the military to continue to enter the door of faith. These will include prayers, gatherings, resources, and suggestions for local Catholic Faith Communities.

The Archdiocese will rouse Catholics to pray the Nicene Creed by issuing a prayer card. In the early Christian Church believers were required to memorize the Creed. This prayer continues to remind believers what Catholics profess. It is from this foundation, centered in Christ and the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic church that the Year of Faith reminds us of the rich tradition of Catholic identity that we are called to know and share.

Gatherings will include a pilgrimage for priests to the Holy Land, participation in the International Military Pilgrimage to Lourdes, France (May 2012); the celebration of World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (July 2012); and a ministry leader training and pilgrimage to Washington, D.C. (TBD).

At the local level Catholics are encouraged to study the documents of Vatican II and the Catechism. Both are available for purchase or may be read for free online.

Resource links to support the study of these documents will be made available in a special section of the AMS website.

Catholic Faith Communities will also be encouraged to show the “Catholicism” Series beginning the first week of the Year of Faith through the end of Advent.

Study questions are provided in the “Catholicism” leaders guide for small faith groups. Reflection sheets will also be posted on the AMS website.

Adults in the archdiocese are encouraged to consider taking an online course with the University of Dayton Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation or Catholic Distance University through the AMS’s discounted partner rates.

Families and all members of the Archdiocese may participate in online Faith Challenges through www.Catholic Quiz.com. Each individual will be able to participate in games during which their knowledge of faith-based material will be tested. Players will add points to their installation’s score as well as keep track of their own work.

This Year of Faith will be an excellent occasion to rediscover the faith and grow in knowledge. Please consider how you and others at your installation can participate in this opportunity. > www.AnnusFidei.va www.milarch.org/YearofFaith

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AMS Celebrates

18th Annual Memorial Mass ——— By TAYLOR HENRY ———

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO TOGETHER WITH MILITARY CHAPLAINS AND LOCAL CLERGY CELEBRATING THE EUCHARIST AT THE 18TH ANNUAL MEMORIAL MASS.

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he Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS) held its 18th annual Memorial Mass to honor United States servicemen and women, living and deceased, on Sunday, 20 May, at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (BNSIC) .

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ith spring in full bloom and the air seasonably mild, it was a day for gazing on the heavens.

While Americans out west watched for a solar eclipse, Catholics the world over observed the Solemnity of the Ascension, marking the occasion when the Apostles witnessed Christ raise Himself to glory 40 days after the Resurrection.

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undreds of faithful filled the red oak pews of the Great Upper Church for the late afternoon Mass, the usual blur of drab Sunday dress punctuated by crisp whites, blues and greens of active-duty Sailors, Marines, Soldiers, Airmen and Coast Guardsmen in full uniform. Their insignia gleamed radiant in daylight filtered through stained glass windows sealed to the stone, brick, tile and mortar walls around the arches, piers, groin vaults, towers and ornamented ambulatories of the massive Romanesque-Byzantine structure.

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ollowing recitation of the rosary and a 15-minute choral prelude performed a cappella by the Choir of the Basilica, the pipe organ heralded the opening processional hymn, “A Hymn of Glory Let Us Sing.”

A Knights of Columbus color guard led the way down the center aisle for more than two dozen priests vested in white. Bringing up the rear, wearing his miter and swaying a gold crosier, His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., Archbishop for the Military Services, stepped ceremoniously toward the altar. Before commencement of the liturgy, the congregation joined in singing the National Anthem.

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scending the pulpit, Archbishop Broglio called on believers to “recommit ourselves to the fundamental values of our Nation and of our faith” while awaiting the return of the risen Lord, Jesus Christ.

Referring to the first reading (Acts 1:1-11), Archbishop Broglio observed, “It is hard to

avoid looking up in the celebration of the Ascension—even despite the counsel of the men in white. We lift up our hearts, look heavenward, and transfer our attention to where Christ is at the right of the Father… o the extent that we die with Christ, we “ Tascend and become liberated from the slavery to sin and, thus, more human. The wait for the glorious Christ can seem long, painful, and tedious when we limit our gaze to the sad pages of history or contemporary society. We must cultivate, like the early Christians the sense of immanence. That tension exists between losing sight and knowing how to gather our brothers and sisters in their need, filling their emptiness.

s that not what motivates this annual “Igathering?

Are we not here to celebrate our communion with those who have sacrificed their lives on battlefields all over the world and with those whose pilgrimage ended in the rigors of old age or due to the effects of war?

Do we not also want to beg the Lord for the safety of those in harm’s way? As an Archdiocese are we not also eager to pray for our Catholic priests, stretched to the breaking point due to their limited numbers, in the service of the men and women in uniform and in the VA Medical Centers? As St. John of the Cross reminds us: ‘There is no better way to see the desires of our heart brought to fruition than to put the strength of our prayer in what is pleasing to God…”

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PAPAL HONORS GIVEN TO AMS WORKER

FOR EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE Ms. Ruth Noemi Juarez receives Benemerenti Medal ——— By TAYLOR HENRY ———

ARCHBISHOP TIMOTHY P. BROGLIO PRESENTS MS. RUTH NOEMI JUAREZ A DECREE NAMING HER RECIPIENT OF THE BENEMERENTI MEDAL, ON FRIDAY, MAY 18, IN WASHINGTON, D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ms. Ruth Noemi Juarez of Wheaton,

Maryland, an employee of the Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS) for twenty-two years, received a papal decoration in May for her long and exceptional service to the Catholic Church. Ms. Juarez is Assistant Director of the AMS Office of Sacramental Records, where she has worked since 1990.

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is Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., Archbishop for the Military Services, presented Ms. Juarez the Benemerenti Medal and a decree, signed by Monsignor Peter Wells, Assessor of General Affairs of the Secretariat of State of the Holy See, during a noon Mass at the AMS chancery in northeast Washington, D.C. 1985 to provide the Catholic Church’s full range of pastoral ministries and spiritual services to Catholics serving in the U.S. armed forces, enrolled in U.S. military academies, undergoing treatment in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Centers, working for the U.S. Government in civilian jobs outside of the pon receiving the award, Ms. Juarez country, and their families. > said: “After I was told about this award people started congratulating me, emailing me and telling me how I deserved it, how I’ve done a good job over the past 22 years, but the truth is, it’s never been about me. All I The Benemerenti medal was created did was what the Holy Scripture says, in the

by Pope Gregory XVI in 1832 and is Gospel of Matthew: ‘Let your light shine typically granted to men and women before men in such a way that they may see who have shown sustained, uncommon apostolic witness to their faith. In your good works and glorify your Father very rare circumstances, the Pope also which is in heaven.’ And that is all I’ve ever awards it to distinguished persons from tried to do when I come to work—glorify other religious traditions who have God. And this award is for His glory, and served the Church with extraordinary His alone.” generosity, character and skill over many years. This high award comes from the Holy See. he AMS was created as an independent archdiocese by Blessed John Paul II in

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he Benemerenti is a merit medal instituted in the 19th Century by Pope Gregory XVI. The medal, attached to a ribbon bearing the papal colors of yellow and gold, depicts Jesus Christ standing between two images of the official crossedkey insignia of the Vatican.

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BENEMERENTI MEDAL

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Discerning God’s Call!

——— By FATHER KERRY M. ABBOTT, OFM CONV. ———

HIS EXCELLENCY, THE MOST REVEREND SAM G. JACOBS, BISHOP OF HOUMA-THIBODAUX, LA., ORDAINS STUART KING A CATHOLIC PRIEST DURING A MASS SATURDAY, MAY 26, AT THE CATHEDRAL ST. FRANCES DE SALES IN HOUMA.

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oday is the 4th of July, the year of Our Lord 2012…the 236th anniversary of our declaration of independence from Great Britain, and the 200th anniversary year of the War of 1812, what some have called our “second war of independence.” In these undesired conflicts the mettle of our national character was in many ways defined and tested, the profiles in courage were and are many.

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s human beings we often do not truly value what comes to us easily or without sacrifice. As Americans ‘midst the fireworks, friends and family of this holiday, we have many examples of women and men who have (and are) living the timeless sacrifices which proclaimed our freedom then, and protect our liberty today.

liberty. Not insignificantly from the airport, even on cloudy days, one can see the dome and spire of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, an interesting juxtaposition of the physical reminders of our human and divine freedom, and the responsibilities and sacrifices associated with both.

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y service as Director of Vocations finds me “on the road” roughly 3 weeks of every month meeting many of our brothers and sisters who are striving to follow the Lord ever more faithfully; eventually I find myself back “home” in Washington, D.C. In many ways this keeps me grounded and focused.

Often I am able to brief the Archbishop, share in meals and liturgies at our AMS pastoral center, and share the inspirational profiles in courage of those that I have met who are seeking to follow the Lord more concretely as they discern their vocation.

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ore often than not having arrived at Washington Reagan National Airport I will take the Yellow Line of the Metro to the AMS pastoral center where I live. From the train, day or night, I am able to look out the windows across the Potomac River to the monuments celebrating our freedom, memorializing those who sacrificed for our

s if to bring that point home to my heart, the Metro passes Arlington Cemetery where I always offer a prayer for the heroes that lie there, thinking of the young and not so young, the known and the Unknowns. That 30 minute journey is like a mini-retreat, a transition from the frenetic pace of modern travel, to be re-grounded in what really matters. While most of the harried Metro riders are immersed in the music or words delivered by ubiquitous ear buds, iPads or Kindles (and the like) seemingly oblivious to the shrines in Washington, D.C. that remind us of the blood, sweat and tears associated with the courage and sacrifices through which our national freedom was born, and continues to be protected, there are often a few both young and old who I imagine are tourists, and who exhibit that same awe in the face of such heroic memories that I pray the Lord never takes from me. (continued on page 28) FA L L 2 0 12

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Discerning God’s Call

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oming “home” from my travels I am truly inspired having heard the stories of a new generation of heroes from every corner of our blessed land, from every service branch of our armed forces who often, deployed in harm’s way, have themselves gone without the grace of the sacraments for the lack of an available priest-chaplain. These men (and you will “meet” some of them in this issue), knowing that they have been called by the Lord to that vocation within a vocation, military ministry within the mystery of priesthood, have responded to this need for sacramental grace within the armed forces by saying with their lives, “here I am Lord, send me.”

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ather than looking for someone else to pick up the cross, follow, and care for them … they have picked up their crosses, they are following the Lord, and they will care for God’s people in times of challenge and struggle, bringing comfort to those that defend us.

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n these days of widespread discussion of entitlements, as the train passes by Arlington Cemetery, with the memory of my discussions with these men in my mind, I can hear President Kennedy once again exhort us to “ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country!”

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n academic year 2011/2012 the co-sponsorship program of the AMS has reached a milestone. We ordained 9 men to sacramental ministry for the Church (2 transitional deacons and 7 priests!), we had a record 13 men enter the program, we have 34 ecclesiastical jurisdictions participating in the program having added 12 new jurisdictions just this year, and almost miraculously we have a total of 43 men in formation…from 7 in 2008, to 43 in

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(continued from page 27)

2012! We have another 34 men in various stages of formal application and discernment.

The future is as hope-filled as the present, built on the life-giving foundation of our past.

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hen you read this article in September we will have just conducted our 2012 Labor Day Gathering of Co-Sponsored men with Archbishop Broglio in Washington, D.C., and will be anticipating the beginning of the Year of Faith on 11 Oct 12.

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hat day will come almost a year to the day when Pope Benedict addressed the military Ordinaries of the world and said, “The work of evangelization in the world of the military, requires a growing assumption of responsibility, so that, in military life as well, there be an ever new, convicted and joyful proclamation of Jesus Christ, the one hope for life and peace for all humanity.”

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he men in our co-sponsorship program are not asking the Lord what He can do for them, but what they can do for Him and His people. They are being formed to assume the responsibilities of convicted and joyful proclamation of the Gospel in times of struggle and celebration, ever new, ever hopefilled in the cause of true peace for all of humanity.

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our prayers, your contributions, are making this mission the rousing success it is, and I want you to be aware of this tangible sign of hope realized through your support!

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hortly after the 2012 Labor Day Gathering we will publish a brochure that will reflect the joy and hope which are the men of our AMS Co-Sponsorship Program, these 43 priests, deacons and seminarians.

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ou should also know that you have a profound role to play in our ministry which exists solely to care for those who are caring (and protecting) us, past and present.

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would ask you to consider inviting young women and men that you know to pray and reflect upon their vocation. In 2008 while in the United States the Holy Father reminded us, “The discernment of a vocation is above all the fruit of an intimate dialogue between the Lord and his disciples. Young people, if they know how to pray, can be trusted to know what to do with God’s call.”

What can you do to help them pray and discern?

• In your own prayer life, remember that the Center for Applied research of the Apostolate (CARA) has reported that nearly 10% of current ordination classes have reported direct affiliation with the Archdiocese for the Military Services. The Holy Spirit is working powerfully in our midst!

• Working with your parish priests and military priest-chaplains, invite your communities (particularly the young) to pray about their vocation, to put the Lord’s desires for them first in their lives; • Invite priests and religious women and men, husbands and wives, permanent deacons and their spouses to speak about their vocation journey in your Catholic faith community, particularly their vocation within a vocation, ministry within the AMS; • Scan the QR image below to see a copy of our AMS Vocation Discernment Retreat Brochure. Does your priest-chaplain know of a man who might want to attend one of these retreats, a woman who might be discerning

religious life? Our AMS benefactors make this possible through their contributions in support of travel and retreat expenses;

FATHER KERRY M. ABBOTT, OFM CONV.

• Review the information contained at our AMS Vocation Office web page www.milarch.org/vocations and refer discerners you know to it; • Email me for resources to obtain vocation discernment materials, and you are always welcome to invite me to come and speak to your vocation discernment groups. I will make every effort to do so while respecting my wider commitments; • Use my contact information included in this issue of Salute, email a referral to me of a military person or family member who is ready to take that “next step” of speaking to a vocation director, I will respond to you and contact them!

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he “heroes” that you will read about on the following pages of Salute all began in the same way. In a prayerful dialogue they asked the Lord what could they do for God and country, they took that “first step” to acknowledge their vocation, they spoke with trusted family and friends, and then they contacted a vocation director.

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oday we have 43 examples of this fact; as I pass by the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, I know that there are hundreds more that the Lord is calling.

You and I are invited by the Lord to help them say, “Here I am Lord, send me!”

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The Blessings Anthony Bittar ARCHDIOCESE: Denver, Colo.

RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE:

Captain, Army National Guard, Colo.

HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED:

Poway High School, Calif.

COLLEGE ATTENDED: Cal State San Marcos (Undergraduate), Colorado State University (Masters) HOBBIES: Running, Exercising and Gardening

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT OF PRIESTHOOD?

The first time I thought about the priesthood was my early 20’s.

WHO INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU? I was influenced and inspired

by both the Virgin Mary and Blessed John Paul II.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

People would be surprised that I am in the Army instead of the Air Force.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE? MATTHEW 14:27

“Take Courage it is I; do not be afraid.”

HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS? I came to know Jesus through

my parents and the Catholic Church.

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Continue WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? The events that helped develop my

relationship with Christ and His Church were volunteering at youth retreats and youth ministry.

WHAT INFLUENCE DID BLESSED JOHN PAUL II HAVE ON YOUR VOCATION? I loved seeing and hearing the late Pope’s speeches.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE THE SEMINARY?

I served as a U.S. Army Officer.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ? The Life of Padre Pio

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? The Bible

WHO IS A HERO TO YOU? My heroes are: Saint Anthony, Saint

Francis and Our Lady.

“The events that helped develop my relationship with Christ and His Church were volunteering at youth retreats and youth ministry.” / /

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The Blessings Sean Koehr DIOCESE: Arlington, Va. RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: Ensign, Navy HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED: Seton School, Manassas, Va. COLLEGE ATTENDED: University of Notre Dame, Ind. HOBBIES: Crossfit, Hiking, Reading, Traveling, Listening to Music, Talking with Family and Friends

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT OF PRIESTHOOD? I knew many priests growing up and my family often invites priests over for dinner. My parents always encouraged us to be open to the will of God, but I did not consider the priesthood as a real possibility until my senior year of high school and was convinced that I needed to pursue it by my sophomore year of college.

WHO INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU? Father James Searby, a priest who would hear confessions and give retreats at my high school. His constant friendship, naturalness and joy have inspired me the most.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I come from a family of 12 children. There are 3 girls and 9 boys. I am the fourth oldest.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE? Matthew 6:25-33 ESV “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

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Continue HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS? I encountered Him through my family, my school and many good friendships.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? First, I had a regular habit of going to confession through high school and college. Knowing God’s mercy and receiving that grace strengthened me in a profound way. While I was in high school we had regular holy hours. Over time I found that spending time before Our Lord affected me very deeply. I began to desire a regular connection with God during college, so I started living a daily plan of life.

WHAT INFLUENCE DID BLESSED JOHN PAUL II HAVE ON YOUR VOCATION? Although I was young during his pontificate, his book “Gift and Mystery” really made me want to become a priest. His explanation of the Mass made me hunger for the priesthood in a way I had never experienced.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE THE SEMINARY? I studied Philosophy at the University of Notre Dame while training to be an Unrestricted Line Officer in Navy ROTC. I decided to drop out of the NROTC program in order to attend seminary in hope of becoming a Navy Chaplain.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ? The Everlasting Man - GK Chesterton

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? The Way - St. Josemaría Escrivá

WHO IS A HERO TO YOU? It seems more and more today that there is a real separation between living a “secular life” and living a “sacred life”. My hero is any man or woman today who is daring enough to truly live out the Christian vocation in the middle of the world.

“Knowing God’s mercy and receiving that grace strengthened me in a profound way.”

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The Blessings Father Stuart King DIOCESE: Houma-Thibodaux, La. RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: Major, USAF HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED:

Wilmington Friends School, Wilmington, Del. COLLEGE ATTENDED: Davidson College (B.S.), Rutgers University (M.S.W.), Princeton Theological Seminary (M.Div.), Pittsburgh Theological Seminary (D.Min.), Immaculate Conception Seminary, Seton Hall University (M.A.) HOBBIES: Football (Go, Eagles!), Baseball, and Collecting Sports Autographs WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT OF PRIESTHOOD? In the

early 1990s as an American Baptist minister, I had the opportunity to speak at Catholic schools and retreats about my own conversion to Christ, and to attend Catholic conferences. I loved ministering in Catholic circles, and repeatedly I was moved to tears by the thought that Catholic parishioners were “sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36). At the time, however, I dismissed the notion that God was calling me to Catholic priesthood, since I was not Catholic!

WHO INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU? Several older Catholic priest

friends inspired me.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I’m married! My bishop has been granted permission from the Holy See to ordain me as a married, Latin rite priest.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE? JOHN 6: 55 and JOHN 6: 67-68

For my body is real food and my blood is real drink.

Then Jesus said to the Twelve, ‘What about you, do you want to go away too?’ Simon Peter answered, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go?

You have the message of eternal life....”

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Continue HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS? After I started seminary the

first time as a Protestant in 1985, while working as a jail chaplain intern I acknowledged that I had unresolved childhood issues. I started receiving counseling, but then my life started to fall apart, as I faced the emotional pain. I had very little hope when, suddenly, I had a vision of Jesus holding me during one of my most difficult times as a young teen. Through that vision, the Lord communicated to me that what I had experienced hadn’t been my fault; that he loved me unconditionally; and that he was bearing my pain. Understanding that, I made an initial decision to surrender control of my life to Christ, and he began to radically transform me.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? Finding God in the midst of suffer-

ing and hardships.

WHAT INFLUENCE DID BLESED JOHN PAUL II HAVE ON YOUR VOCATION? He had a powerful influence, particularly in his

encyclicals, including Veritatis Splendor (moral theology) and Pastores Dabo Vobis (on the priesthood) WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE THE SEMINARY?

I served as a priest in the Charismatic Episcopal Church, and as a Protestant military chaplain for 16 years.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ? Killing Lincoln.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? The Bible; also, many

writings of the early Church fathers found in the Liturgy of the Hours.

WHO IS A HERO TO YOU? It’s difficult to choose only one saint!

St. Maximilian Kolbe.

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The Blessings James Hickman DIOCESE: Richmond, Va. RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE:

Army - Captain (O-3) HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED:

Benedictine High School, Richmond, Va. COLLEGE ATTENDED: United States Military Academy HOBBIES: Running, Camping, Swimming and Reading WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT OF PRIESTHOOD? 2nd grade WHO INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU? I was influenced by the

Benedictine monks and diocesan clergy at my parish, Army chaplains at West Point and various military assignments. The Blessed John Paul II and His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, and various saints who responded generously to God’s invitation have inspired me to publicly witness to my vocation. Immensely beneficial to my vocation has been my devotion to the Blessed Mother, Mary.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

Almost every faith is represented in my family, which has encouraged me to know and practice my own whilst respecting others’.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE? THERE ARE SEVERAL:

1 MACCABEES 3:58-60 And Judas said, “Gird yourselves and be valiant. Be ready early in the morning to fight with these Gentiles who have assembled against us to destroy us and our sanctuary. It is better for us to die in battle than to see the misfortunes of our nation and of the sanctuary. But as his will in heaven may be, so he will do.”

JOHN 20:16-20 Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabbo’ni!”(which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not hold me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren and say to them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” Mary Magdalene went and

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Continue said to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”; and she told them that he had said these things to her. On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord JOHN 21:18-19 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you girded yourself and walked where you would; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will gird you and carry you where you do not wish to go.” (This he said to show by what death he was to glorify God.) And after this he said to him, “Follow me.”

HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS? I was raised in a Catholic household and went to Catholic school K-12th grade, but in 2003 I attended a fellowship in Europe where I came to realize how little I knew and my life changed such that I wanted to know so much more. It was on this fellowship that I came to know the Truth as a person, Jesus Christ.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Compass (an apostolate

of Regnum Christi similar to FOCUS), going to and serving at the Mass, Reconciliation, the Rosary, and Adoration.

WHAT INFLUENCE DID BLESSED JOHN PAUL II HAVE ON YOUR VOCATION?

The man lived his life to the fullest and told us not to fear anything or anyone, but to believe in Christ and know that He loves us.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE THE SEMINARY?

After college I spent five years on active duty as an Army Infantry officer.

I then joined the Dominicans and spent some time as a novice discerning religious life.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ? Ratzinger’s On Conscience (two

essays delivered by the Prefect of the CDF to bishops at the National Catholic Bioethics Center in 1984 and 1991) “Conscience and Truth” February 1991 and “Bishops, Theologians, and Morality” February 1984 WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? The Story of a Soul, The

Auto-biography of St. Therese of Lisieux.

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The Blessings Michael Metz ARCHDIOCESE: Atlanta, Ga. RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: Army, 2nd Lieutenant HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED: Pinecrest Academy, Cumming, Ga. COLLEGE ATTENDED: Christian Brothers University, Memphis, Tenn.

HOBBIES: Golfing, Sports, Grilling, Hunting, Enjoying time with Friends

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT OF PRIESTHOOD? I grew up in a very open family. So when considering a vocation to a religious order , the possibility of the priesthood was a thought that I have always had.

WHO INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU? The high school community I grew up in was always a strong influence on my decision. I had a lot of exposure to amazing priests that always reinforced the importance and need for holy priests in the Church.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU? I am the second oldest child in a family of eleven. There are 8 Metz boys and 3 Metz girls.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE? THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER – MARK 4: 3-20.

“Listen! A sower went out to sow And as he sowed, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured it. Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it had not much soil, and immediately it sprang up, since it had no depth of soil; and when the sun rose it was scorched, and since it had no root it withered away. Other seed fell among thorns and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain. And other seeds fell into good soil and brought forth grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.” And he said, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” And when he was alone, those who were about him with the twelve asked him concerning the parables. And he said to them, “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables; so that they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand; lest they should turn again, and be forgiven.” And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? The sower sows the word. And these are the ones along the path, where the word is sown; when they hear, Satan immediately comes and takes away the word which is sown in them. And these in like manner are the ones sown upon rocky ground, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy; and they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, im-

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Continue mediately they fall away. And others are the ones sown among thorns; they are those who hear the word, but the cares of the world, and the delight in riches, and the desire for other things, enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. But those that were sown upon the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit,thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.”

I remember studying this passage at Ft. Benning Airborne School and it having a huge impact on me. This passage shows the different reactions people have to the Word of God. Everyone’s reaction is different. This parable made me look inside myself and learn a little bit of how I react and ways that I can improve myself.

HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS? Fortunately for me I was raised in a very Catholic household so Christ was always a part of my life. But I really began to know Him in a personal way when I was a freshman in high school and took a trip to World Youth Day in Germany. That trip had a large impact on my relationship with Jesus Christ.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? The biggest event to date occurred last summer while I was doing ROTC training as a junior in college. In the solitude of Ft. Lewis and the silence of the woods I heard the very real and personal call from Christ to become a Catholic priest and military chaplain.

WHAT INFLUENCE DID BLESSED JOHN PAUL II HAVE ON YOUR VOCATION? Blessed John Paul II’s influence on my vocation is one of admiration. He influenced me through his example as well as his actions. He was such an incredible man that I could try to emulate in a very real and human way. He led the way with holiness and humility, things that have been and will continue to be a big part of my life and the fight to get to heaven.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE THE SEMINARY? I was born in San Diego, Calif. My father was a Navy F-14 pilot and was stationed at Miramar. After his career ended our family moved to Georgia where I spent my middle, elementary and high school years. I attended an all boys high school and enjoyed playing sports all four years. I went on to Memphis, Tenn. where I attended Christian Brothers University. I played basketball and was enrolled in the Army ROTC program through the University of Memphis. I graduated with a B.S. in Business Management and commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Army.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ? Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand. It is a biography that follows main character Louis Zamperini from childhood, to his time as an Olympic athlete, to being captured as a Japanese POW in WWII. It is one of the best books I have ever read.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? The Better Part by Fr. John Bartunek.

This book is a compilation of gospel meditations that have been a constant help for me on a daily basis.

WHO IS A HERO TO YOU? My father and my mother. Their selfless mindset and battle for holiness have been a constant example for me throughout my life. They literally devote every waking second to trying to get their children closer to holiness. They have dedicated their lives completely for others. I admire their love for others and their persistence to make everyone around them better people in any way possible. I am lucky to have these great heroes for parents. I am truly blessed.

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The Blessings Richard H. I. Monteverde DIOCESE: Orlando, FL RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE:

Previously served in the U.S. Army HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED:

Winter Haven High School, FL COLLEGE ATTENDED: United States Military Academy (3 yrs) and University of South Florida HOBBIES: Watching Baseball, Reading, Bike Riding, Beer and Wine Brewing WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT OF PRIESTHOOD?

Middle School, when I would sit in church and wish I could do the same thing the priest was doing.

WHO INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU? My mother has influenced me in living a good and God loving life. Father Edison Woods inspired me to seriously think about becoming a priest, with his homilies and general warmth when talking to him.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I am a big comic book nerd.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE? JOHN 15:13

“Greater love has no one than this,that one lay down his life for his friends.”

HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS? I developed my foundation of faith

through my mother’s example and her continually sending me to Vacation Bible School and Sunday school. But I can truly say that I got to know Jesus and hear His voice when I started to actively pray and attend Adoration weekly.

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Continue WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? Prior to participating in RCIA, I did not have an

active role in my parish. I felt just like any other individual attending Mass. But as I participated more and more in RCIA I started to feel a connection and familial bond with those going through and teaching RCIA. That was when I first realized that an active parish can be family to each other. This increased my desire to serve the parish. Also through weekly Eucharistic Adoration I was able to dedicate time specifically for being in the presence of our Lord, this increased my closeness with Him and helped show me that I may have a vocation to be a priest.

WHAT INFLUENCE DID BLESSED JOHN PAUL II HAVE ON YOUR VOCATION? Blessed John Paul II always seemed to provide me an example

of how I should live. Through his ministry to the poor, his ability to talk to the common man, and his ability to teach tough theological lessons to all showed that Jesus was truly working through him. I hope to one day being able to emulate all Blessed John Paul II did while he was with us.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE THE SEMINARY?

I had a varied background. After High School I spent 3 years at West Point, was an Infantryman for 5 years, worked in an IT department afterwards, and was a substitute Middle School teacher.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ? A Game of Thrones Series by

George R. R. Martin WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? A Jesuits Guide to (Almost)

Everything by Fr. James Martin, SJ WHO IS A HERO TO YOU? There are three heroes I have always held in high

regard. My mother who instilled in my love of God, who was always there to support me in all my endeavors, and provided for her family in and during the toughest of times; the men and women of the Armed Services who dedicate and sacrifice so much of their lives to serve the United States; and the priests that serve not only those soldiers but the entire world, bringing the light of the world to the darkest of places.

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The Blessings Father David M. Reamsnyder DIOCESE: Ordinariate of the Chair of Saint Peter RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE:

Navy - has not yet commissioned HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED:

Hudson Area High School, Hudson, MI COLLEGE ATTENDED: Spring Arbor University,

Spring Arbor, MI HOBBIES: Weight Lifting, Travel

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT OF PRIESTHOOD?

Serving as an acolyte at Holy Trinity Church in Hillsdale, MI. WHO INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU? John Henry Newman.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I was first drawn to the liturgy while serving in Iraq. I had the unique opportunity to attend a Chaldean Mass.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE? JOHN 1:1-14 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God; all things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. He came for testimony, to bear witness to the light, that all might believe through him. He was not the light, but came to bear witness to the light. The true light that enlightens every man was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world knew him not. He came to his own home, and his own people received him not. But to all who received him, who believed in his name, he gave power to become children of God; who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father.

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Continue HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS?

I prayed one evening while a young private in the Army and within a couple of hours was invited to a Bible study.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? My relationship with Christ was encouraged

by the Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, Rosary, and the Daily Office.

WHAT INFLUENCE DID POPE BENEDICT XVI HAVE ON YOUR VOCATION? Pope Benedict XVI opened the door for me to enter the

Catholic Church with the Apostolic Constitution: Anglicanorum Coetibus.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE THE SEMINARY?

I served in the Army for six years as a paratrooper and Army National Guard for six years while working on my BA.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ?

Catholicism, Christ and the Common Destiny of Man, by Henri De Lubac.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? Confessions of St. Augstine.

WHO IS A HERO TO YOU? Saint Columba.

“I was first drawn to the liturgy while serving in Iraq.

I had the unique opportunity to attend a Chaldean Mass.”

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The Blessings Callan Sweeney DIOCESE: Austin, Texas RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE:

U.S. Army - 2nd Lieutenant HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED:

Lake Travis High School, Austin, Texas COLLEGE ATTENDED: United States Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, N.Y. HOBBIES: CrossFit, Mountain Biking, the Outdoors and Football

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT OF PRIESTHOOD?

I first thought of it when I was in high school but I was far from seriously considering it at the time. My progression toward entering seminary and becoming a priest started with “I could never do that” to “I can see why someone would do that” and finally “I can see myself doing that”. That process took a lot of years. It is amazing to look back now and see how the Holy Spirit can shape a person over time without them ever realizing what is happening. Love is truly patient.

WHO INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU? I could never do that

question full justice because there are so many people. Frankly, the most amazing part is that many of them do not know how the Holy Spirit used their words or actions to speak to me. But I was especially blessed with the chaplains and priests that have shown me that this Good is possible.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I spent a year working as a merchant mariner, sailing on several different containerships, oil tankers, and U.S. naval vessels. Deep sea sailing will take you everywhere around the world and that is exactly where I went: from California to Japan, from New York to North Africa. An adventure, yes, but a rough life too, only being able to attend Mass once during an 8 month period at worst.

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Continue WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE? DANIEL 3:92

“’But, he replied, ‘I see four men unfettered and unhurt, walking in the fire, and the fourth looks like the son of God’” HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS? I spoke to Him and He spoke

back. An oversimplification, maybe, but how can I explain how I met Love? I met Him in my mother’s empathy, my sister’s laugh, and my father’s hands. And now, after every Mass, He leaves with me.

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? Since I was in high school I have

always been fascinated with learning more about God and theology. I would go and get books upon books of C.S. Lewis, Scott Hahn, Fulton Sheen, and the Saints. I think I googled the Doctors of the Church once and had Story of a Soul in my hands the next day.

WHAT INFLUENCE DID BLESSED JOHN PAUL II HAVE ON YOUR VOCATION? “Do not be afraid” is so simple a phrase that Blessed John

Paul II spoke so often but was still so meaningful. When I finally decided to enter seminary it was because the only reasons I had not to do it were all based on fear. John Paul II told us “do not be afraid” partly because God does not speak to us through fear, therefore what I was afraid of was not coming from God. When I finally realized that, I was out of reasons not to go and only reasons to take the leap.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE THE SEMINARY?

I was a graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, a commissioned officer and student in the U.S. Army’s flight school. The Army Aviation branch was gracious enough to release me to allow me to join the Army’s Chaplain Corps and become a priest.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ? The Priest is Not His Own

by Archbishop Fulton Sheen.

WHO IS A HERO TO YOU? Father Kapaun and Father Capodanno are

my heroes. Both are military chaplains and both gave their lives for their men. To me, they embody everything it means to be a chaplain and a true priest.

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The Blessings Kevin Seymore DIOCESE: Harrisburg, Pa. RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE: U.S. ARMY (Infantry) - 1st Lieutenant HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED: New Oxford High School, New Oxford, Pa. COLLEGE ATTENDED: United States Military Academy, West Point, N.Y. HOBBIES: Working Out, Running, Reading, Playing the Piano and PC Games

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT OF PRIESTHOOD?

I have thought about it for approximately the last 5 years, but more seriously within the last 18 months.

WHO INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU? I was inspired by a number of people, including many of the chaplains I have met in the Army, such as Chaplain Joe Lawhorn (1-505 PIR) and all the Fort Bragg Catholic priests.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I guess the fact that I am in an airborne unit is a little unconventional! Also, I studied Arabic as a linguist prior to college

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE?

Armor of God, from Ephesians Chapter 6

Being an infantryman, warfare is my focus, but I find Paul’s regalia t o be more protective and sustaining than any Kevlar ever could.

HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS?

I was born and raised into a Catholic household. For as long as I remember, Christ has been a significant part of my life.

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Continue WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? The military has provided me with

a means of meeting countless other followers of Christ, sharing their stories, and realizing the positive impact of Christ’s life and His continuing influence and interaction through them.

WHAT INFLUENCE DID BLESSED JOHN PAUL II HAVE ON YOUR VOCATION? I think that the most positive item that Blessed John Paul II

provided was an aura of piety, charisma, and holiness. He was an excellent example of the type of leader the Church needs.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE THE SEMINARY?

I have been in some facet of the military for over 8 years, initially enlisting in 2004.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ?

I have a number of books based on religion and religious themes recently, but overall the last book I read was “What It Is Like To Go To War,” by Karl Malantes.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK?

I thoroughly enjoyed “A Case For Christ,” by Lee Strobel. It is a well written book that solidifies the faith-based aspect of Christianity with an objective look at Christ’s historical impact and reality.

WHO IS A HERO TO YOU? I have many heroes. However, the men and women that I have served with both in garrison and while overseas that have voluntarily put their lives in danger are my greatest heroes.

“I was born and raised into a Catholic household. For as long as I remember,Christ has been a significant part of my life.”

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The Blessings Adam Woodward DIOCESE: Monterey, Calif.

RANK / BRANCH OF SERVICE:

N/A, I will be applying to the Air Force HIGH SCHOOL ATTENDED:

Valley Christian School, Northhampton, Mass.

COLLEGE ATTENDED: Gordon College, Calif.

HOBBIES: I enjoy Reading, Soccer and Music

WHEN WAS THE FIRST TIME YOU THOUGHT OF PRIESTHOOD?

I began seriously considering priesthood three years ago.

WHO INFLUENCED OR INSPIRED YOU? I was most inspired by authors such as Brother Lawrence, St. Teresa of Avila, Julian of Norwich, St. John of the Cross, and the Desert Fathers.

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

I was raised without a television.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SCRIPTURE PASSAGE? PSALM 46:10

“Be still and know that I am God.” HOW DID YOU COME TO KNOW JESUS? I was introduced to Jesus by

my parents when I was a child.

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Continue WHAT WERE SOME OF THE SPIRITUAL EVENTS OR ACTIVITIES THAT HELPED YOU DEVELOP AND SHARE YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH? I have benefited from many

different kinds of small Bible studies, spiritual book groups and worship gatherings.

WHAT INFLUENCE DID BLESSED JOHN PAUL II HAVE ON YOUR VOCATION? “The future starts today, not tomorrow.”

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE THE SEMINARY?

I have worked in teaching, counseling, and social services.

WHAT WAS THE LAST BOOK YOU READ? “The Final Quest” series

by Rick Joyner.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE SPIRITUAL BOOK? My favorite spiritual

book is whichever one I am reading.

WHO IS A HERO TO YOU? Enoch, seventh from Adam.

“I was most inspired by authors such as Brother Lawrence, St. Teresa of Avila, Julian of Norwich, St. John of the Cross, and the Desert Fathers.”

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AMS CELEBRATES 9 ORDINATIONS 7 priests and 2 deacons ordained in banner year for new vocations to fill growing shortage of Catholic military chaplains WASHINGTON, D.C. – Working hard to reverse a growing shortage of Catholic chaplains in the U.S. military, the Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS) reaped the fruits of its labor over graduation season—a bumper harvest of new priests and deacons coming out of seminaries with a commitment to potential active-duty service.

During May and June, seven prospective chaplains were ordained priests and two others were ordained transitional deacons in preparation for eventual priestly ordination. That’s a sharp increase from last year, when only two priests were ordained, and the year before, when there were no ordinations.

All nine come from military backgrounds and are products of the “Seminarian CoSponsorship Program,” a thriving vocations support partnership set up between the AMS and cooperating dioceses and religious communities to replenish the ranks of Catholic priests both in the military and throughout the Church by supporting vocations drawn largely from the armed forces.

Among those recently ordained priests: Father Christopher Rhodes, ordained May 26 at the Cathedral of the Assumption in Louisville, Ky. Father Stuart King, ordained May 26 at the Cathedral of St. Francis de Sales in Houma, La.

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Father David Reamsnyder, ordained June 9 at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Baltimore, Md. Father Stephen Cotter, ordained June 9 at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Baltimore, Md. Father Michael Taylor, ordained June 9 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Albany, N.Y. Father Brian Wood, ordained June 23 at Christ the King Cathedral in Lubbock, Texas Father Andrew Young, ordained June 29 at St. Joseph Cathedral in Sioux Falls, S.D. In addition to the newly ordained priests, Rev. Mr. Angel Marrero was ordained a transitional deacon May 12 at the Basilica of the Assumption in Baltimore and Rev. Mr. Jason Burchell was ordained a transitional deacon June 2 at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington, Va. Both will hopefully be ordained priests next year.

Father Kerry Abbott, OFM Conv., AMS Director of Vocations, said: “This dramatic growth in young Catholic servicemen committing themselves to serve as priest-chaplains is really an amazing blessing. It is an indication that the Holy Spirit is working not only throughout the Church in general, but also within the armed forces to gift us with vocations at a time of great need. And how

appropriate! No one knows better than a Soldier, an Airman, a Sailor, a Marine or a Coast Guardsman the meaning of service to a greater good, and how great the cost.”

The new priests expressed joy at their ordinations.

Father Rhodes said: “I am deeply humbled and overwhelmed

with gratitude by the amount of support and affirmation I continue to receive as a result of my vocation.”

Father King said: “I sensed a remarkably powerful presence of the Holy Spirit, during both the ordination itself and my First Mass as a priest on Pentecost Sunday.” >

Serving Those Who

Serve

THE ARCHDIOCESE FOR THE MILITARY SERVICES, USA www.milarch.org | 202.719.3600 | support@milarch.org

Help us bring the sacraments and pastoral services to the 1.8 million Catholics in the military, military families and VA Medical Centers.

Designate when you make your pledge

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Use of the Department of Defense image does not imply or constitute endorsement.

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——— By FATHER KAUL ———

SABBATICAL

FATHER JOHN KAUL SABBATICAL IN ROME

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or a priest to be able to spend time away in prayer and study on sabbatical any place for any length of time these days is an enormous blessing. To spend eleven weeks in Rome is an incredible opportunity on its own.

But when within that time frame falls a Consistory that names one of my heroes a Cardinal, the awesome Vatican liturgies of Holy Week and Easter, and an Easter Week retreat in Assisi, it becomes a spectacular time of grace.

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T

he old saying that the blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church is most demonstrable in Rome. The city where Saints Peter and Paul gave their lives is the home of seminaries (Did you know “seminary” means “greenhouse”?) and houses of study representing innumerable countries from which scores of priests and bishops are ordained every year. The Church’s greatest scholars study and teach here. Our sabbatical afforded us the chance to listen to and spend time with these eminent Catholic theologians and liturgists.

Our housing was on the beautiful grounds of the Pontifical North American College – a 10 minute walk from St Peter’s Square. Though our classes and accommodation were separate from theirs, we enjoyed the daily company at meals and randomly of 250 seminarians from nearly every state of the union – six of whom our Vocations Director, Father Kerry Abbott, knows very well as members of the Seminarian Co-Sponsorship Program with the Military Archdiocese – future Catholic chaplains in the armed forces. What an inspiration these young men were to us! So full of such joyous energy!

The Church’s future is bright. God is good.

Mid-February saw the elevation to the Princes of the Church of Edwin Cardinal O’Brien, a man of immense moment in the history of the AMS. Cardinal O’Brien advanced the vision of John Cardinal O’Connor of the AMS as an independent pastoral entity, moving our headquarters out of rented space at Theological College into a building of our own but still in the shadow of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. As Archbishop for the Military Services he was a pastor to his priests as well as shepherd to its subjects. Personally, he was most gracious to me and my family in the death of my dad seven years ago. What a

privilege to join his successor, Archbishop Broglio, and members of the AMS staff at the events honoring him that weekend.

Like any other self-respecting university curriculum, ours included a Spring Break.

Many of my classmates took advantage of a group tour to the Holy Land. But I had been there, done that, so I set out to complete the last leg of a personal project – to visit the sites of the first five Christian Churches. The Navy had gotten me to Alexandria, Antioch, Jerusalem, and Rome. I went off to Constantinople-Istanbul – the seat of the Greek Orthodox Church (in Turkey, as history would have it). What a beautiful city! So modern and yet so ancient. So much religious history.

So much conflict. The Hagia Sophia – a shining cathedral turned mosque turned museum, monument to it all.

All of the above notwithstanding, the time’s greatest blessing was the fraternity of my classmates – 29 of us from all over the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Great Britain – each with varied and diverse experiences and perspectives on what it is to be a priest. Only a brother priest will understand. The meals off campus; the cappuccinos in the cafes; the small liturgies among ourselves in and among the tombs of the Apostles and martyrs and popes; the aimless walks along the vias, corsos and borgos of the Eternal City forged a whole new fellowship of lifelong friends – brothers in a wonderful mission and vocation. Ecce quam bonum, as we say. Behold how good it is.

St. Peter still lives in Rome. He continues to energize and reinvigorate his Lord’s Church from the site of his tomb and his bones, the rock on which that Church was built and from which it has grown. Let us all continue to pray for vocations. The harvest gets richer, and we are still few. > FA L L 2 0 12

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Bishop Buckon Visits Hawaii and Alaska

BISHOP NEAL BUCKON AT U.S. COAST GUARD STATION, KODIAK ISLAND

Chaplains Father Robert Glasgow and Father Valentine Ugwuanya provide comprehensive religious support to both Airmen and Soldiers and families in the Command.

Deacon Desiderio Martinez, a retired Airman and Deacon of the Archdiocese of Anchorage, is a valued member of the ministry team.

The next stop on the journey was Fairbanks, Alaska where I visited Eielson Air Force Base and Fort Wainwright. Air Force Chaplain, Father Jesus Navarrete, and Army Chaplain, Father John Brocato, opted to combine their candidates for a Confirmation Mass on the Vigil of Pentecost. The candidates were well-prepared and enthusiastic. As on so many installations, the priests and catechists put in place outstanding sacramental preparation programs. The Confirmation on the Vigil of

the feast of Pentecost was as beautiful as it was appropriate. The reception afterwards was convivial and the food delectable.

I joined Bishop Donald Kettler and Father Fred Bayler of the diocese of Fairbanks for an excursion into Denali National Park on Memorial Day. Father Fred was a Park Ranger prior to becoming a priest. He made the arrangements for our trip. We met Archbishop Schwietz and our Park Ranger guides near the entrance to the park, and then spent a day in the largest park of the United States. The guides were very well versed on the history of the park and they were very quick to find grizzly bears, Dahl sheep, moose, and caribou. Father Fred’s “Good Weather Prayer” was very efficacious and we clearly viewed Mount McKinley, the highest mountain in the United States (20,340’), on one of the most beautiful days of the year.

Our service members and their families are afforded the opportunity to be assigned to locations where they can enjoy the beauty of God’s creation, rich history, and cultural diversity. It is critically important to send Catholic chaplains to minister to them, to name the grace that exists around them, and provide the essential pastoral leadership. >

AMS Celebrates 18th Annual Memorial Mass

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rchbishop Broglio counseled the faithful that “The faith we hold in our hearts must motivate the decisions, the words, and the commitment of our everyday existence.”

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ollowing Mass, the Archbishop and some of his concelebrants joined members of the congregation for a reception at the Edward J. Pryzbyla University Center on the campus of the Catholic University of America. >

ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO INSTITUTES CO-SPONSORED SEMINARIAN RYAN BOYLE AS A LECTOR AT THE NORTH AMERICAN COLLEGE

AMS LAUNCHES FUND RAISING DRIVE TO EDUCATE NEW MILITARY CHAPLAINS

The Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS) has launched a fund-raising drive to educate future military chaplains.

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., Archbishop for the Military Services, says donations are urgently needed to meet a sharp increase in tuition and related expenses as more and more young men enter seminaries to fill a fast-growing shortage of Catholic chaplains in the United States armed forces.

The shortage comes as aging chaplains reach the military’s mandatory retirement age of 62 faster than they can be replaced. Over the past decade, the active-duty roster has shrunk from more than 400 to fewer than 250. Currently, 25% of the U.S. military is Catholic, but Catholic priests make up only 8% of the chaplain corps.

Thanks to active recruiting by the AMS in cooperation with local bishops and religious communities, the number of current or soon-to-be seminarians, transitional deacons and priests enrolled in the “Seminarian Co-Sponsorship Program,” created to support prospective new chaplains through the formation process, has risen from seven at one point in 2008 to 43 this year. The surge in recruits has raised the AMS’ annual tuition bill from less than $90,000 to more than $500,000. And with the AMS currently processing the applications of at least 18 more prospects, expenses are almost certain to climb in years to come.

ARCHBISHOP BROGLIO SAID: “While I recognize and appreciate how generous AMS supporters already are with their time, talents, and donations, I invite each and everyone who can to take advantage of this opportunity with an additional gift. No gift is too small.”

Through the Seminarian Co-Sponsorship Program, the AMS shares the cost of a prospective chaplain’s five-year, $25,000 per year seminary education with the seminarian’s local diocese or religious order, each typically paying half the total amount, or about $12,500 a year. The local bishop or religious superior agrees to release the seminarian to pursue a military career after three years of pastoral service in his diocese or congregation. When the priest leaves military service, he returns to the diocese or congregation for continued pastoral service.

Archbishop Broglio pointed out that the AMS, which receives no government funding and has no parishes to support its ministry through weekly collections, depends entirely on the generosity of private donors.

Donations can be made at www.milarch.org/vocationsfund

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The “door of faith” [ACTS 14:27] is always open for us, ushering us into the life of communion with God and offering entry into His Church. — Pope Benedict XVI

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Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA