The 2013 September Issue of The Courier

THE COURIER

September 2013

Roman Catholic Diocese of Winona

Bishop to Bless New High School

Volume 104, No. 9

Campaign Update!

Thank you!

For your continuous generosity!

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INSIDE World Youth Day & Camp Summit Reflections!

Lourdes High School; photo by Josh Banks.

Rochester Catholic Schools Press Release, Rochester, Minn - On September 15, 2013, students, families, teachers, faculty, staff, stakeholders and community leaders will gather in the courtyard at the new Lourdes High School to celebrate together the dedication and blessing of the new Lourdes High School.

After many years of planning and building, this ceremony marks a blessed day when the Bishop will consecrate the new home of Lourdes High School.

“The dedication and blessing is a designated act, a ritual, that gives special recognition to those who contributed to making our new school an imaginable reality,” said Rita Hendrickson, Director of Campus Ministry at Lourdes. The celebration will mark the official opening of Lourdes High school and give opportunity to celebrate with all those who are

connected to the Lourdes community.

“This very special day is about celebrating a great milestone in the life of Lourdes High School. We are truly blessed to gather together as a community comprised of students, educators, parents, alumni, parishioners, men and women religious, benefactors and friends in thanksgiving for this remarkable gift that God has provided. We are grateful for the commitment and support from so many who remained focused on our vision to cultivate and make manifest a sacred space where our students, and all who enter, will come to witness and experience the presence and love of our Lord. As we bless Lourdes High School, we are humbled to participate in such a significant piece of its history and are proud to serve as faithful stewards of this legacy for generations of Catholic

youth to come,” said Michael Brennan, Director of Rochester Catholic Schools.

Bishop John M. Quinn, Bishop of the Dioceses of Winona, will preside over the prayer and blessing of the new school.

There will be welcoming remarks from Michael Brennan, Director of Rochester Catholic Schools and music will be led by the Lourdes Liturgical Choir and members of the Lourdes Marching Band.

An open house for self-guided tours will be available for those who have not yet toured the new school.

Dr. Joe O’Toole, Lourdes High School interim principal, said, “The Lourdes High School community, faculty, staff and many stakeholders gratefully acknowledge the blessing and gift of our new Lourdes High School. As the Interim Principal I am so grateful, honLourdes High School, cont. on pg.3

More on page 8

Meet our New Principals

More on page 7

Harvest Mass Celebrated on August 15 On the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, over five hundred gathered for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass at the meticulously groomed farm of Bernie and Julie Petrowiak.

The Petrowiaks and other parishioners of Holy Family Church in East Chain worked very hard to welcome the many faithful who attended Mass with Bishop Quinn as the main celebrant. Afterwards, people enjoyed a wonderful meal and entertainment under the tent; the 24th annual Harvest Mass was a great success! more photos on pg.3

2 - The Courier, September 2013

BISHOP QUINN

Most Rev. John M. Quinn: Making God First in Our Lives Brothers and Sisters in the Lord, Summer is nearing an end and a new school year is upon us. As students settle back into their routines, the crops are maturing and farmers are preparing for the harvest.

Oftentimes, it is easy to get caught up in the busyness of our hectic schedules and take for granted the blessings God so graciously bestows upon us.

During this time, I especially remember all of our students, farmers and families. I pray that God grant you peace and happiness. I encourage you to make time to thank and praise God for all of these blessings.

I am back in the classroom at St. Mary’s University in Winona. I give thanks for our Catholic University and for our students.

Immigration Ecumenical Service

The issue of immigration is once more coming before the House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. when the House reconvenes on September 9, 2013. The Senate has already passed an immigration bill, and the House now has the opportunity to hammer out its version of the legislation. The problem is complex and can be very emotional. There are over 14 million undocumented people in the United States.

It seems to me that the legislation must be fair and respect those who came here

legally, but it also must find a pathway to citizenship, with significant steps, for those who want to become citizens but are here illegally. Uniting families is also very important. Since this is very complex and has many sides, I invite you to come and pray with me for divine guidance and with other religious leaders on Thursday, September 5, 2013 at St. John Church in Rochester, at 7:00 p.m. All are welcome.

Marriage

During the month of September, I will have the privilege of celebrating Mass with many faithful married couples of the Diocese of Winona. The Celebration of Marriage, held this year in Slayton, is a blessed occasion when we recognize the beauty and dignity of the vocation to marriage by honoring couples who live out their vows faithfully and joyfully.

It is a time for families to honor parents, grandparents, and other loved ones for the sacrifices they make, in order to openly and selflessly reflect God’s love in their daily lives.

Through this celebration, we also honor marriage as an institution established by God. We recognize marriage as a foundation for the good of our society. Social science research has proven that a healthy marriage between a man and a woman is what is best for children. Please join us in our Celebration of Marriage. You

can find the form in page 4 of this Courier.

Renewal of Diocesan Consecration

every year as an act of love and devotion to Our Lady.

Harvest Mass

In 2008, Bishop Harrington consecrated the Diocese of Winona to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. In the very moment of conception of Jesus in the womb of Mary, Jesus entrusted His whole being to her. Similarly, by this act of consecration, we allow Mary to actualize her mediation, enriching our diocese with a higher degree of grace and greater likeness to Christ. We surrender the diocese completely to God and His service, giving the same yes that Mary gave when she bore Jesus in her womb. Last year I renewed our consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and we will continue to renew it every year as an act of love and devotion to Our Lady.

On Saturday, September 7, 2013 – the vigil of the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary – I will once again renew the consecration of the Diocese of Winona to the Immaculate Heart of Mary at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. Mass will be celebrated at 5:15 p.m. with the IHM Seminarians in attendance along with the parishioners of the Cathedral. The weekend following my consecration, the pastor of each parish in the diocese will also renew the parish consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

This renewal will be made

I want to thank the Petrowiak family for hosting the 24th annual Harvest Mass held on their farm. More than five hundred people gathered to celebrate rural life and thank God for the bounty of the land and to bless the coming harvest.

God’s blessing was so obvious in the faces of all those who attended. We were reminded that all good things, including our faith, take hard work and a tenacious commitment. I want to thank everyone who made this day a successful and memorable event, especially the Petrowiak family, the parishioners of Holy Family Church in East Chain and Peter Martin, Director of the Office of Life, Marriage and Family.

As we move into this fall season, I encourage you to make time to thank God and make your requests known to Him. I take this opportunity to thank you for your prayers for me and my ministry. Please continue to pray for me and our priests and be assured of my prayers for each and every one of you. May the peace of Our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always.

Sincerely in Christ, Most Rev. John M. Quinn Bishop of Winona

Bishop John M. Quinn

OFFICIALS The Most Rev. John M. Quinn, Bishop of Winona, announces the following: Pastoral Assignments: Rev. Peter Klein, currently Pastor pf St. Ann Parish, in Janesville and St. Joseph Parish in Waldorf to become Pastor of Ss. Peter and Paul Parish in Blue Earth and St. Mary Parish in Winnebago, effective August 31, 2013. In addition, Fr. Klein will serve as Dean of the Mankato Deanery, also effective August 31, 2013.

Rev. Chinnappa Pothireddy, to become Parochial Administrator of St. Ann Parish, in Janesville and St. Joseph Parish, in Waldorf, efffective August 31, 2013.

Fr. Chinnappa is from the Diocese of Nalgona, India. He recently finished eight years of service to Caritas, in India, which is similar to our Catholic Charities. His Bishop has given him permission to work in the Diocese of Winona for five years.

Bishop's Calendar - September 2013 September 1, Sunday 12 p.m. – Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Rochester with Hispanic Community September 3, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University 11 a.m. – Presbyteral Council and Deans – Holy Hour, St. Theodore Church, Albert Lea 12 p.m. – Presbyteral Council and Deans’ Meeting, preceded by lunch September 4, Wednesday 4:45 p.m.

– Evening Prayer, Mass and dinner at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Winona

September 5, Thursday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University 10:45 p.m. – Mass of the Holy Spirit, SMU, St. Thomas More Chapel, followed by lunch 2 p.m. – Holy Hour, Bishop’s Cabinet, Bishop’s Chapel 3 p.m. – Cabinet Meeting 7 p.m. – Immigration Ecumenical Prayer Service – St. John the Evangelist Church, Rochester September 6, Friday 10:30 a.m. – Mass, “Back to School” for Loyola Catholic School students, Loyola Catholic School, Mankato 1:30 p.m. – Blessing of Calvary

Cemetery, Mankato

Stewartville

September 7, Saturday 9 a.m. – Mass for St. Vincent de Paul, St. Michael Conference Retreat, Owatonna 10:30 a.m. – Reflection, “The Keys of Vincentian Spirituality” for St. Vincent de Paul, St. Michael Conference Retreat, Owatonna 5:15 p.m. - Mass – Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona Renewal of Marian Consecration of Diocese of Winona

September 10, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University

September 8, Sunday 10:30 a.m. – Confirmation at St. Bernard Church,

Diocese of Winona - Child Sexual Abuse Policy Information The Diocese of Winona will provide a prompt, appropriate and compassionate response to reporters of sexual abuse of a child by any diocesan agent (employees, volunteers, vendors, religious or clergy). Anyone wishing to make a report of an allegation of sexual abuse should call the Victim Assistance Coordinator at 507454-2270, Extension 255. A caller will be asked to provide his or her name and telephone number. Individuals are also encouraged to take their reports directly to civil authorities. The Diocese of Winona is committed to protecting children, young people and other vulnerable people in our schools, parishes and ministries.

The diocesan policy is available on the diocesan web site at www.dow.org under the Safe Environment Program. If you have any questions about the Diocese of Winona’s implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, please contact Peter Martin, at 507-858-1264, or pmartin@dow.org.

September 11, Wednesday 9 a.m. – UnitedStatesConference of Catholic Bishops, Committee on Education Subcommittee Meeting, Washington, DC September 12, Thursday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University September 12, Thursday – Saturday, September 14 St. Vincent de Paul Annual Meeting, Madison, WI

September 15, Sunday 9 a.m. – Mass for 150th Anniversary of St. John the Evangelist Church, Rochester 3 p.m. – Dedication of new Lourdes High School, Rochester 7 p.m. – Vespers and dinner, with Priests of Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Winona Sept 17, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University 10 a.m. – Mass with Cotter Students, at new Cotter Schools Chapel, Winona Sept 18, Wednesday 9 a.m. – Minnesota Catholic

THE COURIER (ISSN 0744-5490)

Official Publication of the Diocese of Winona 55 West Sanborn, P.O. Box 949, Winona, MN 55987

Telephone: 507-454-4643 Fax: 507-454-8106 E-mail: courier@dow.org Subscription Rates: $5 per year in the U.S. Parishioners in the Winona Diocese subscribe through their parish. Periodicals postage paid at Madelia, MN Postmaster.

Publishing Schedule: Monthly - Deadline for advertising & articles is the 15th of the month prior.

Publisher: Most Rev. John M. Quinn Editor: Joel Hennessy Associate Editor: Theresa Martin

IN THE DIOCESE

The Courier, September 2013 - 3

Bishop Quinn to Renew the Diocesan Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary In 2008, Bishop Bernard J. Harrington consecrated the Diocese of Winona to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. This year, Bishop John M. Quinn will renew the consecration of the diocese to the Immaculate Heart, and will do so annually on the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

In the very moment of conception of Jesus in the womb of Mary, Jesus entrusted His whole being to her.

Similarly, by this act of consecration, we allow Mary to actualize her mediation, enriching our diocese with a higher degree of grace and greater likeness to Christ. We surrender the diocese com-

pletely to God, giving the same yes that of love and devotion to Our Lady.

Mary gave when she bore Jesus in her In addition to the diocesan consecrawomb. The act of consecration dedicates tion, Bishop Quinn is also requesting the diocese and all of the good works that pastors consecrate each of their parthat come from it to Our Lady and her ishes to the Immaculate Heart of Mary desires, in order to more fully complete on the weekend of September 10-11. In the will of her Son. addition to the renewal of the consecraOn Saturday, September 7, the Vigil tion of the diocese and of parishes, there of the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed is also a possibility of a consecration on Virgin Mary – Bishop Quinn will renew a family or personal level. the consecration of the Diocese of Winona St. Louis de Montfort, a missionary to the Immaculate Heart of Mary at the priest from France, was known as the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. Mass will “Apostle to Mary.” De Montfort encourbe celebrated at 5:15 p.m. This renewal ages souls to give themselves unreservwill be made every year on the feast of edly to Our Lord through the Blessed the Immaculate Heart of Mary as an act Virgin Mary in a type of slavery called “Total Consecration.”

The Total Consecration to Mary requires a serious preparation of 33 days.

By Kathy Wilmes These days are broken into sections, each I am excited, and honored, to extend tations. The first will be Most Rev. having its own prayers and readings. this invitation to attend this year’s Bishop John M. Quinn who will speak Then, on the day of consecration, we Fall convention to all our diocesan on “Remaining Christian in a Secular either fast, give alms or offer a votive candle for the good of another; do women. This year it will be held at St. World.” The second speaker will be some spiritual penance; go to confession, and receive Holy Communion, Catherine’s Church in Luverne, Minn. Sr. Marie Paul Locherd, R.S.M. who with the intention of giving ourselves to Jesus as a slave of Love, through This is one convention that I always will explain “The Link between Breast Mary. We surrender everything we have, in body, soul and merits, so that look forward to seeing. It is the time Cancer and Abortion.” That is certainly they may look after us in the best possible way. that our beautiful quilts and other out- something to think about as we proreach items are on display and packed mote pro-life values. into trucks to be sent to Brother Regis The fee for the conference is $20, as well as other charities. which includes all events, including a This year we mark the end of our Mass with our Bishop Quinn, lunch, present executive board’s term and the and treats. Hope to see you all there! beginning of another. I have worked A note from President Harveen Gluf: closely with Harveen Gluf as well as "It has been my pleasure to serve all the the rest of the board and have found Catholic Women of the Winona Diocese ored and humbled to be here and present to all as we enter them to be excellent ambassadors for as your Council of Catholic Women our new facility and continue our organization as well as keepers of President for the past 2 years and I together our walk in Faith the flame of faith, especially in a year hope to meet with you and see you all and learning. As it says in of faith for our Church. I hope you will on Saturday, October 5th, 2013 At 8:30 Micah 6:8, “You have been come and offer your congratulations to am. at St Catherines in Luverne. We are told, O man, what is good, this group as well as a welcome to the planning a day of: food, fun, inspiration and what the Lord requires new group headed by Cindy Meling. I and fellowship for all Catholic Women of you: Only to do right and know that they will be noble successors of the Diocese and in the USA! It should to love goodness, and to walk to our current board members. be exciting! Everyone is Welcome. Please humbly with your God.”” We have two speakers that day that see our advertisement in the August Due to age and dynamwill be sharing thought-filled presen- Courier." ic educational demands, Lourdes was faced to evaluate the opportunity to reConference meeting, St. Sept 29, Sunday Federal Prison build. “The initial dream of Paul 10 a.m. – Confirmation at a new Lourdes High School St. Leo Church, Pipestone Oct 4, Friday had been planted long ago Sept 19, Thursday 2 p.m. – Mass and 9:00am – Digital Church and it is such a blessing to 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, Marriage Celebration at Conference at Mayo Civic St. Mary’s University St. Ann Church, Slayton Center, Rochester be part of the vision that has Lourdes High School Chapel; photo by Josh Banks.

9:30 a.m. – Holy Hour, 1 p.m. – Mass with come to fruition. I believe it DOW Consultors Sept 30, Monday Lourdes High School stuall happened due to people’s 10:30 a.m. – DOW 4:30 p.m. – Mass, St. dents at new Lourdes prayers, generosity, and commitment. Families understand the richness and Consultors’ Meeting Mary’s Hospital 125th High School, Rochester strong roots that Catholic education provides, and so they too supported the anniversary and 150th Sept 20-23, Fri - Mon anniversary of Mayo Oct 5, Saturday same vision to build a new Catholic High School,” said Hendrickson.

Meeting of Equestrian Practice, Rochester, at St. 11 a.m. – Mass and instalUnlike the old downtown location, which has served as a high school Order of the Holy Mary’s Hospital Chapel, lation of new officers for since 1941, the new space is open and shaped into a campus like structure.

Sepulchre, Des Moines, IA Rochester Winona Council of Catholic The 167,000 square foot building is built in three sections: fine arts, academWomen, at St. Catherine Sept 23–25, Mon - Wed ics and an athletics section. Lourdes High School currently serves over 465 October 1, Tuesday Church, Luverne Annual Presbyteral Days, 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, 5 p.m. – Mass at St. Leo students; the new state-of-the-art school will be big enough to house more Okoboji, Iowa St. Mary’s University Church, Pipestone than 525 students with room for future expansion.

The new building is set on 24 acres of land located at the corner of 19th Sept 26, Thursday Oct 2, Wednesday Oct 6, Sunday Street and Valleyhigh Drive NW. 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, 10 a.m. – Mass followed by 8 a.m. – Mass at St. St. Mary’s University lunch with Hermits of St. Joseph Church, Jasper The Lourdes Building our Future campaign has been supported through 1 p.m. – Bishop’s Cabinet, Mary of Carmel, Houston 10 a.m. – Bilingual Mass at private donations from benefactors who believe in the importance of Catholic Holy Hour, Bishop’s House 4:45 p.m. – Evening St. Leo Church, Pipestone, Education. Participation by everyone has been essential for success; over 2 p.m. – Bishop’s Cabinet Prayer, Mass and dinner followed by lunch 1,600 donors contributed to the campaign. at Immaculate Heart of 12 p.m. – Presentation Lourdes High School gratefully acknowledges the hard work and dedicaSept 28, Saturday Mary Seminary, Winona at “Feed Your Faith” 5 p.m. – Mass and series at St. Leo Church, tion of all the individuals who have so generously sacrificed their time and Installation of Msgr. R. Oct 3, Thursday Pipestone monetary funds to make this high school a gift to all.

Paul Heiting as Pastor 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, Students start classes in the new building August 27, 2013. Lourdes High of Assumption Church, St. Mary’s University Oct 8, Tuesday School is one of 5 Rochester Catholic Schools campuses. Rochester Catholic Canton; Nativity of the 10 a.m. Holy Hour, 11 a.m. – Diocese of Blessed Virgin Mary, Bishop’s House Schools provide academic excellence, faith formation and service learning Winona Foundation Harmony; and St. Olaf 6 p.m. – Prison Volunteer Board experiences for more than 1,800 students in grades Preschool through grade Church, Mabel Training – Rochester 12.

"An Invitation of Joy for You!"

Lourdes High School cont'd from page 1

Bishop's Calendar - cont.

4 - The Courier, September 2013

LIFE, MARRIAGE & FAMILY

"What are you going to do about Marriage?"

By Peter Martin, S.T.L.

I’m sure I’m not the only person being asked this question a lot these days.

Part of me wants to repeat the question right back. Another part of me wants to deny all responsibility and say “well, I didn’t do this, why are you looking at me to fix it?” Obviously no one person brought us to where we are today, so the correct question should be: “what are WE going to do about marriage?”

The first thing we have to recognize is that this didn’t happen overnight and so it won’t be fixed overnight. Almost 40 years ago, for example, Minnesota enacted a no-fault divorce law which certainly has negatively affected how marriage is viewed today. On top of that, we live in a culture that defines sex as purely an act of pleasure and treats it as a harmless recreation instead of a loving act solely for a man and woman in a committed married relationship.

All of these things have assisted in the weakening of the importance of marriage in our culture.

In a world that preaches relativism (“it might be true for you, but I believe something differently”) you can imagine how confused people are when it comes to marriage. This graph shows the percentage of people who supported/ opposed the Marriage Protection Amendment (those in support believed marriage should be defined as only between one man and one woman). I will let it speak for itself.

So what are we going to do? There is much that we can do, but I would like to offer two very simple, yet powerful suggestions:

The Office of Life,

Marriage & Family Peter Martin, STL Director pmartin@dow. org

1) Let us work on our own marriage. Marriage as an institution has deteriorated in part because people have failed to live it out in a way that is attractive. Who can blame the younger generation for not supporting marriage when they have seen the pain and suffering that bad marriages have produced?

The most important thing we can do to fix marriage is to make sure our own is top-notch. Imagine the impression we will be making on our children, our co-workers and our neighbors if we strove every day to make sure our spouse understood that we love them with all our heart?

2) Let us support good and holy marriages (i.e., attend the Celebration of Marriage in Slayton as advertised below!). A significant anniversary should not only be celebrated by the couple themselves, but by all of us! As the Catechism says perfectly about married couples: “by their own faithfulness they can be witnesses to God's faithful love. Spouses who with God's grace give this witness, often in very difficult conditions, deserve the gratitude and support of the ecclesial community.” (#1648)

Celebration of Marriage Bishop John M. Quinn will preside at a special celebration of the Eucharist honoring married couples and extending special blessings at 2:00 pm on Sunday, September 29, 2013 at St. Ann's Church in Slayton.

This is a wonderful way to honor a loved one’s anniversary or celebrate your own!

This celebration is not restricted to any particular anniversary. A beautiful certificate will be presented to all couples in attendance and a professional photographer will be on hand to take a photo of you with Bishop Quinn. A reception will be held after Mass.

Bishop Quinn wishes to send a special invitation to married couples who wish to participate this year. If you or someone you know would Over 500 gathered for the 24th annual Harvest Mass in the Diocese of Winona. like to receive an invitation, please register online at www.dow.org or submit the form below (duplicate this form as needed) to:

Harvest Mass in Images

Celebration of Marriage PO BOX 588, Winona, MN 55987 or email to pmartin@dow.org Names: ________________________________________________________________

Husband's First Name Wife's First Name Family Name Street Address: _______________________________ Phone: __________________ City: _______________________________________ Zip Code: __________________ Years Married: ____________________ Wedding Date: ______________________

An areal view of the Harvest Mass and the beautiful Petrowiak farm.

(If you would like the certificate to indicate the number of years you will celebrate this year, please add that here.)

MISSION ADVANCEMENT

The Courier, September 2013 - 5

Rooted in Faith, Rejoice in Hope Campaign surpasses $11M God is good! For the past few months, parishioners in the 17 parishes that make up the Rochester deanery have been demonstrating their generosity and commitment of faith by supporting the Rooted in Faith, Rejoice in Hope fundraising campaign. This historic effort will: • Ensure that our retired priests receive the care, respect and dignity they deserve after a lifetime of service to the Church • Modernize one of the true jewels of our Diocese – Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona – by upgrading the facilities so that the needs of our 21st century seminarians can be met • Fund the 2013 Annual Diocesan Appeal (ADA) and the various Catholic ministries and programs it supports • Strengthen each of our parishes by returning 25% of funds raised to address local projects In August, the campaign surpassed $11,023,000 in pledges and gifts. Despite Wave I not yet being complete, we are more than a third of the way to our campaign goal, with nearly 100 parishes yet to participate. Again, God is good!

During the weekend of August 10th and 11th, Wave II of the campaign kicked off in the Mankato and Worthington deaneries. Those 48 parishes will now continue the momentum created by the Rochester deanery. Andin early October, Wave III of the campaign will begin in the Winona and Austin/Albert Lea deaneries.

If you are reading this and have been one of the early supporters of this important and historic campaign, thank you!

Bishop Quinn extends his most sincere gratitude and prayers to you and your family. If you have not yet been approached, or have not yet made a decision about your gift, please pray about how you and your family can join the thousands of other fami-

By Joel Hennessy

lies who are making their sacrifice to ensure that the Catholic faith in southern Minnesota remains strong and vibrant for the future.

By Joel Hennessy (written while at IHMS, May 2008)

MATTHEW WARNER

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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 4TH, 2013 Mayo Civic Center – Rochester, MN 8:30 AM - 4:00PM

“The Digital Church Conference will help you master the new media and spread the good news. I highly recommend it!”

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Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary Alumnus Fr. Milo Ernster

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Joel Hennessy

In a Class of His Own

Fr. Ernster, who was part of the first group of seminarians to live in our beloved Kelly Hall and part of the first class to graduate from the newly built seminary, recently reflected upon his experience at IHMS. “Ours was the first class ordained to have lived in Kelly Hall,” proudly states Fr. Ernster.

“We saw it go up...we were there at the ground breaking, we were there when the footings were poured, and we watched those bricks laid one on top of the other. We were so excited....we knew when we came back for our senior year, we would be in the brand spanking new Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary!” But as fate would have it, the building was not ready at the start of the school year and Fr. Ernster One day. Three dynamic speakers. And limitless possibilities as you learn everything from perfecting your websites, to and “thirty-some” building your social network, to evangelizing online. young men were squeezed into a

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single family home which the diocese had purchased as part of the land acquisition for construction of the present day Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. “I don’t know how we survived that year...it was so crowded,” recalls Fr. Ernster.

But survive they did and in March of 1951, the first group of seminarians moved into Kelly Hall. Father Ernster adds, “One thing wasn’t ready...there were no curtains or shades on the windows. I had one of those corner rooms with windows on three sides; it was like living in a bird cage. Every couple of days, [Fr.] Speltz would remind us how important it was to turn off the light before we got ready for bed.” Six young men, including Fr. Ernster, graduated from IHMS that first year. But in the end, Fr. Milo Ernster was the only man of the group that was ordained. He is the Class of 1955! As Father Ernster gave a speech as the guest of honor at the Diocese of Winona’ s Annual Clergy Days, he bragged about the Class of ‘55, “Now, let me tell you

about the Class of ‘55. This is a good class! There’s a...a closeness that I don’t think any of you experience with your class.

The Class of ‘55 is just as big, and alive, and active today as it was fifty years ago!

There has been no one who died from the Class of ‘55.

This is a good class.” Father Ernster continued his speech by expressing his gratitude to God and to all those who have shared his journey. He closed his remarks as only Father Ernster could, “I’m grateful for so many things.

But, what really excites me today is knowing that this great Class of ‘55 selected me to speak on behalf of the entire class today. It’s a good class!” Indeed it is.

Congratulations Father Milo Ernster!

VOCATIONS/ LAY FORMATION

6 - The Courier, September 2013

"Ah, Lord ...I Am Only a Child"

By Rev. Will Thompson

“Ah, Lord; you see, I do not know how to speak: I am only a child!” These words uttered by Jeremiah when God first asked him to be a prophet have since been spoken in a similar vein by many. How often are we asked to do something for which we feel unqualified? Whether it is young age or lack of experience, we look for a way out. Then we hear God’s reply: “Do not say, ‘I am only a child,’ for you must go to all to whom I send you.” There is something both reassuring and stressful in this response. God is sending, but it is for a purpose far beyond what we had ever imagined possible.

I am pleased to see examples of young people who are sent by God. Several times each year I hear moving stories of youth creating a grass-roots project to assist others; whether they serve those suffering with a disease, build a school in Africa or decide to resolve a local issue. These people do not have a Master’s Degree and often don’t know how the system “works.” They see a need and they respond with love and generosity. Some will make a career out of their charity, others will move on to something else. Yet all of these people show a similar resolve: even as a child, they are willing to push themselves in order

to benefit others.

During World Youth Day, Pope Francis asked young people to shake up the Church. As with many of his statements, he did not clarify exactly what he meant. I think in part, at least, he meant that we should hear about and see more examples of people who will not say “I am only a child!” He wants faith-filled youth who are willing to respond

What if God is asking you?

of the Lay Faithful - (Part 1) As I’ve noted previously in this column, during the 2013-14 year the Office of Lay Formation will be celebrating the 15th anniversary of the beginning of our diocesan Institute of Lay Ministry. Our Church will also mark the 25th anniversary of Blessed Pope John Paul II’s landmark statement on the laity, Christifidelis Laici (“On the Vocation and the Mission of the Lay Faithful in the Church and in the World”) on December 30th of this year.

In the months ahead as part of our anniversary year, this column will examine Christifidelis Laici section by section to explore our Church’s present understanding of the “vocation and mission” of the laity. Let’s begin by introducing this historic document…

Context and Purpose The Second Vatican Council’s “Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity” (Apostolicam Actuositatem), issued in November, 1965, was the first document of an ecumenical council of the Church to specifically reflect and teach on the role of the laity. [See the July, 2013 issue of “The Courier” for a summary of this document.] Some 22 years after this landmark decree, Pope John Paul II convened a gathering of the world’s bishops to explore and discuss this same topic in view of what had taken place in the life of the Church following Vatican II. In October, 1987, this Synod of Bishops was assembled under the theme of the “Vocation and Mission

of the Laity in the Church and in the World Twenty Years after the Second Vatican Council.”

The Apostolic Exhortation, Christifidelis Laici (“CL”), was issued by Pope John Paul II in response to this synod and serves as a summary of the teaching on the laity that arose from it.

In presenting it to the Church, the then President of the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for the Laity said that it offers “for the lay faithful a rich and complete summary of the [Second Vatican Council’s] teachings on their identity, vocation, and mission.” More recently, a Vatican official described CL as “a kind of ‘magna carta’ or ‘handbook’ for the lay apostolate.”

Its author, Pope John Paul II, stated the purpose of his apostolic exhortation in this way: “This exhortation intends to stir and promote a deeper awareness among all the faithful of the gift and responsibility they share, both as a group and as individuals, in the communion and mission of the Church” (CL, #2).

A Scriptural Image Pope John Paul begins his exhortation with a reflection on the parable from St. Matthew’s gospel on the laborers in the vineyard (Mt 20:1-16).

This is the story in which a landowner goes out several times throughout the day to hire workers for his vineyard, and at the end of the work day pays all of them the same wage.

Pope John Paul says that this parable sets before us “the Lord’s vast

Rev. Will Thompson

to a need. It is not enough to sit back Director and wait for things wthompson@ to happen. All too dow.org often I hear things like “Church is boring.” I would imagine that Pope Francis has heard that comment as well and is asking our youth to do something about it.

When an individual sees a need and responds without worrying about the personal cost, they are exhibiting a trait that will lead to a fulfilling vocation. If a young person is willing to commit time, small or great, they are showing signs of commitment to care for others. Care is exactly what is needed to have a happy marriage or a fulfilling life as a priest, sister, brother or consecrated single person. Recognizing the needs of others and responding to those needs is what vocation is all about. When God calls us, he directs us how to love, where to go, and who to serve. It is easy to say that we are too young or inexperienced, or that someone else can take care of a particular need. But what if God isn’t asking anybody else? What if God is asking you?

The Vocation and the Mission

By Todd Graff

The Office of Vocations

vineyard,” which is the whole world.

This vineyard, our world, “is to be transformed according to the plan of God in view of the final coming of the Kingdom of God.” And, the “laborers” in the vineyard are, then, the women and men who are “called and sent forth” by the Lord (the “landowner”) to work in the vineyard on his behalf.

This call to labor in the vineyard is given to all members of the Church: clergy, religious, and lay.

Pope John Paul echoes the Second Vatican Council’s special call to the laity to “give a glad, generous, and prompt response to the impulse of the

The Office of Lay Formation Todd Graff Director tgraff@dow.org

Holy Spirit and to the voice of Christ, who is giving them an especially urgent invitation at this moment … to associate themselves with [Christ] in his saving mission” (Apostolicam Actuositatem, #33).

Next month, as we continue our study of CL, we will see what Pope John Paul sees as being of critical importance to the laity’s work in the Lord’s “vineyard” in our own day.

September 2013

Year of Faith Special Edition Insert of The Courier

Year of Faith 2012 - 2013

Optatam Totius: The Decree on In this Issue Training Priests A Year of Faith Essay Winner Featured

St. Cecilia

More on YOF page 2

The Time is Now

Become an Endow facilitator!

More on YOF page 4

Ask a Canon Lawyer

Do we really need the Tribunal Office?

More on YOF page 3

Year of Faith Logo Explained

The logo is composed of a square, bordered field on which a boat, symbolizing the Church, is represented as sailing on a graphically minimal representation of waves. The main mast of the boat is a cross from which sails are displayed in the form of dynamic signs which compose the trigram of Christ (IHS). The background to the sails is a sun which, associated with the trigram, refers also to the Eucharist.

By: Rev. Will Thompson

Following the overall goal of Vatican Council II, the Decree on the Training of Priests (Optatam Totius) opened the windows of the Church to let in some fresh air and update seminaries. I have spoken with priests and have heard many other stories of those who spent their years in seminary prior to the Council. They speak of rigid rules that must be followed, or face expulsion from the seminary. Rule-breaking could be as simple as leaving campus without permission or rolling a bowling ball down a hallway. While some priests were able to get away with leaving campus without notice, Archbishop Fulton Sheen could not escape the wrath that followed his bowling ball test (he would later enter another seminary). Celibacy was not mentioned except by clearly stating that priests would have to accept this lifestyle. Spiritual direction happened once or twice a year, and only asked if the seminarian was keeping up with his prayers. There were no parish experiences during seminary. Seminarians were primarily measured by their academic abilities and by following the rules.

These were the expectations placed upon young men preparing for the priesthood in the 1950’s.

In a changing world, however, the preparation for the priesthood also required change. Spirituality became the corner stone that all other areas of seminary life would be based upon.

If the seminarian did not have a solid prayer life, how could he lead others to Christ as a priest? Celibacy is no longer simply expected, but is a gift regularly reflected upon “which they should ask for humbly and to which they should hasten to respond freely and generously, under the inspiration and with

Seminarians from the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary.

the assistance of the Holy Spirit” (OT 10). Academics continue to be important, but not as the primary indicator of a vocation. Finally, the Council urged that seminaries provide more practical pastoral experiences to those preparing to be future pastors of the Church.

When the Council Fathers decided to update seminary formation, they continued a practice that began in the Council of Trent in the 16th Century: To prepare the future priests in the present Church.

Optatam Totius concludes by entrusting the preparation of the Church’s future priests to the seminary faculty. This has not always been easy. As the Church in general went through a time of upheaval after Vatican Council II, so also did seminaries. For this reason, the Decree on the Training of Priests was not the last word. Synods of Bishops were called in 1967, 1971 and 1974 to discuss the structure of seminaries and those being formed for the priesthood.

On the 25th anniversary of Optatam Totius, the fourth Synod was called to discuss seminary formation.

This Synod resulted in a primary document used in seminaries today, called “I Will Give You Shepherds.” This Apostolic Exhortation by Blessed John Paul II built upon the writings of Vatican Council II by explaining the need for seminaries and what should take place in seminaries. Blessed John Paul II went into great Immaculate Heart Mary Seminary is located in Winona. detail about the relevance and

need for the four pillars of formation: Spiritual, Human, Intellectual and Pastoral. When a seminarian commits himself to grow in these areas, his vocation is clarified and he receives a sound preparation for the rigors of priesthood.

After living at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary for one full year, I can attest to the difficulty involved in implementing the vision of Vatican Council II. The Council Fathers wanted us to be rooted in the Tradition of the Church in a present world. The Council said nothing, for example, about video games and Facebook. They knew that there is a constant need to update formation to meet the needs of the young men entering seminary and the needs of the Church and world they will serve.

For example, even in the 1990’s, some seminaries would mention celibacy no more than once per year. It seems that it took the sad reality of the sexual abuse scandal before seminaries began to take formation in celibacy seriously.

Seminary formation is a mix of reactive and proactive formation by responding to what has taken place and preparing the men to confront whatever situation they encounter with courage and joy.

While Optatam Totius serves as the foundational document for seminaries today, it prescribed that conferences of Bishops produce particular plans of formation that meet the needs of each local Church. The USCCB is currently working on the Sixth Edition of the Program of Priestly Formation. With each addition, seminary formation is updated in order that newly ordained priests are prepared to minister in today’s Church.

Calendar Of Events

2 - Year of Faith, September 2013

Events in the Diocese for the Year of Faith Color Key: General Youth Adults School Teachers/Catechists August 12-15, 2013: Junior High "Camp Summit" at Eagle Bluff in Lanesboro CONTACT: Ben Frost August 26, 2013: Catechetical Day, St. Augustine Church & Pacelli School, Austin CONTACT: Sr. Mary Juanita Gonsalves, RSM, mjgonsalves@dow.org

October 30, 2013: Diocesan Year of Faith Closing Celebration.

CONTACT: Sr. Mary Juanita Gonsalves, RSM, mjgonsalves@dow.org November 24, 2013: Official Closing of the Year of Faith for the Universal Church

St. Cecilia

written by Megan Schwartzhoff from Saint Mary's School, Caledonia, First Place Winner for grades 7-8th division.

Saint Cecilia is the patron saint of music, and she was a very inspirational person. St. Cecilia was born and died in Rome. She is the patron saint of music, composers, instrument makers, musicians, and poets. A fitting Bible verse for her would be,

The martyrdom of St. Cecilia by Carlo Saraceni.

Catechetical Sunday This year, the Church will celebrate Catechetical Sunday on September 15, 2013, and will focus on the theme "Open the Door of Faith." Those whom the community has designated to serve as catechists will be called forth to be commissioned for their ministry. Catechetical Sunday is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the role that each person plays, by virtue of Baptism, in handing on the faith and being a witness to the Gospel.

Catechetical Sunday is an opportunity for all to rededicate themselves to this mission as a community of faith.

- From the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Day for Catechists: The Pontifical Council for Promoting the New Evangelization has announced that September 26-28, 2013, an International Conference for Catechists will take place at St. Peter’s Square, Rome.

From September 28-29, 2013, a Pilgrimage of Catechists will take place at St. Peter’s Square. For more information, please visit www.annusfidei.va.

“Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!” (Ps 95:1).

Saint Cecilia was a devout Christian most of her life. Cecilia was a Christian since infancy. As she grew up, she vowed to stay a virgin. Cecilia grew up and was forced to marry a noble pagan man, Valerian. On her wedding day, she sang in her heart. Cecilia eventually convinced Valerian, her husband, and Tibertius, Valerian’s brother, to convert to Christianity.

After they converted to Christianity, Valerian and Tibertius were martyred.

After Valerian and Tibertius were martyred, Cecilia was martyred also in Rome; Cecilia could relate to Romans 8:11: “If the spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, the one who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also, through his spirit that dwells in you.” She wanted to leave her house to the Church, but the king ordered her to be suffocated in her own home. Cecilia survived the suffocation attempt. Later, the executioner tried to behead her.

The executioner hit three times, but she survived.

The executioner left his sword and Cecilia to bathe in her blood. Cecilia survived three days and then

A Family Prayer for the Year of Faith O God our Father, in Jesus you call all Christian families and homes to be signs of living faith.

By the light of the Holy Spirit, lead us to be thankful for the gift of faith, and by that gift may we grow in our relationship with Jesus, your Son, and be confident witnesses to Christian hope and joy to all we meet.

In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

E vent of the M onth

died. Her body was found later, and she was buried among bishops and confessors in the Catacomb of Praetexatus on the Via Appia.

I relate to St. Cecilia in different ways. Saint Cecilia loved music and so do I. I sing at church and all the time at home. God gave Cecilia her talent and the courage to use it; I hope someday I can do the same.

Saint Cecilia is a good person to look up to and role model in many ways. She wouldn’t change, and she was willing to die for her religion. She vowed and told her husband, who respected her decision to stay a virgin. After she was married she convinced her husband and his brother to convert to Christianity. She inspires to sing and give their talents back to God. Saint Cecilia is and can be an inspiration to me and everyone. She was willing to die for her religion; and when she died, she gave her things to the church. She was a devout Christian and learned about the religion her entire life.

The Truth of Our Faith

Learning fromTheLord’sPrayer

Forgiveness starts in the Family

By Sr. Mary Juanita Gonsalves, R.S.M. In the parable of the prodigal son, we see the encounter of the father embracing his son who has returned to him after wasting away his inheritance. This example of forgiveness is a responsibility all parents are called to share in as they educate their children on how to live the faith. Priests, as spiritual fathers, have a unique mission to impart God’s forgiveness through absolution of sins within the

us…, as we forgive…” (CCC #2838). God, in Christ, gave us a model of forgiveness when the Incarnate Word became flesh, suffered and died for our sins. When we approach the Sacrament of Penance with sorrow for our sins and to restore our relationship with God, the priest in the person of Christ guides us through our contrition and penance to minister the Father’s forgiveness. But, contrition

The Power of Forgiveness Sacrament of Penance. In this article of the Lord’s Prayer, we reflect on how forgiveness witnessed to in the family helps us understand the fifth petition of the Lord’s Prayer, “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.”

Our petition begins with a “confession” when we pray, “Forgive us our trespasses…”

Priests can assist the faithful to overcome sin through the Sacrament of Penance. But first, we have to realize that we are not perfect and that we need the Father’s mercy. The prodigal son in the parable only returned to his father after he realized that he had unwisely spent his inheritance. In the same way, young adults who meet with trials after leaving the home may turn to their parents initially to strengthen them in their journey of independence. In a homily given by Pope Francis on April 29, 2013, we see the need for each of us to turn away from a life of sin and darkness so that we can find true happiness. In this homily, the Pope said, “Walking in darkness means being overly pleased with ourselves, believing that we do not need salvation. That is darkness! When we continue on this road of darkness, it is not easy to turn back…. Look to your sins, to our sins, we are all sinners, all of us ... This is the starting point. But if we confess our sins, He is faithful, He is so just He forgives us our sins, cleansing us from all unrighteousness…”

All spouses, parents, and children can then turn with trust to the Father, who is faithful and does not deceive, to overcome evil.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) draws our attention to the word “as” joining the two parts of the petition: “Forgive

has to come from one’s interior. It may be easy to stay in a relationship with another family member but still hold a grudge within. The Church acknowledges that “it is not in our power not to feel or forget an offense;” we can only be configured to the Divine Son, by offering our heart to the Holy Spirit (CCC #2843).

By offering our heart to the Holy Spirit, we are strengthened with the grace to act with virtue and to have true interior and exterior contrition. Then, when we have experienced the Father’s forgiveness, we may be filled with gratitude, and are strengthened to show his forgiveness to another who hurts us. If we hurt another complacently after receiving the Father’s forgiveness, we turn further away from Him and His forgiveness; if we extend His mercy towards others, especially those close to us—in our families—we are brought into a deeper relationship with Him. Pope Blessed John Paul II in his Act of Consecration of the Modern World to Our Lady of Fatima, prayed that the Mother of Christ deliver us from the evils in our world, including famine and war, loss of awareness of good and evil, and the sins against the life of man from its very beginning. Within the family, then, we can see how the tenderness and strength of the mother can draw children to rise from their falls. The tenderness and strength found in the Sacrament of Penance is a further invitation for the children of God to return to the loving embrace of the Father.

In the next article on the Lord’s Prayer, we will reflect on how after returning to the Father, we seek his help to not fall into sin again.

Year of Faith, September 2013 - 3

Ask a

Canon Lawyer

By Mr. William Daniel

Q: "What is the purpose of a Tribunal office in a Diocese? Do we really need it?"

While our Lord Reply: Jesus Christ through His incarnation came not to judge but to save the world (John 12:47), being the victor over sin and death the Father has situated Him over all humanity and creation as judge (cf. Matt.

25:31). In summoning, commissioning and sending the Apostles, Christ imparted upon them all the power needed to govern the community of His disciples, the Church (e.g., Matt. 16:19, 18:18).

The Church at the Diocesan level deals with matrimonial matters, specifically the alleged nullity of marriage. The controversy in such cases is not, as one might expect, between the spouses; rather it is between the one introducing the case (the Petitioner) and the public good of the Church. The Church presumes that all marriages are valid (cf. c. 1060) and wants to continue upholding the validity and dignity of each marriage, even if it should rupture by the separation of the spouses.

It is in the public interest in the Church that the stability of marriage and the family be protected; and so the Church in a sense resists the declaration of nullity of marriage. This is personified by an official in the Tribunal who tries (within reason) to protect the validity of marriage,

called the Defender of the Bond.

Tragically, because of the pervasive culture of individualism (and many other factors), Catholics are not immune from the high incidence of divorce in the Western world.

Divorced Catholics may be inclined to approach the Tribunal in hopes of obtaining a declaration of nullity of their marriage.

They do this for many subjective reasons (e.g., the desire for a new marriage, peace of conscience, etc), but the Church always looks upon the matter as the right of the faithful to clarify their status in the Church: i.e., whether they are truly bound in marriage to another, or not due to the invalidity of the marriage. American Tribunals continue to receive a steady influx of petitions for the declaration of nullity of marriage, and so Bishops continue to staff their Tribunals in order to provide for the exercise of the rights of the faithful.

Mr. William Daniel is a canon lawyer of the Diocese of Winona, serving as a Tribunal Judge and Vice-Chancellor. If you have a canon law question which may be considered in a future issue, you may send them to the Associate Editor at Courier@dow.org.

Act of Faith O my God, I firmly believe that you are one God in three divine Persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. I believe that your divine Son became man and died for our sins and that he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe these and all the truths which the Holy Catholic Church teaches because you have revealed them who are eternal truth and wisdom, who can neither deceive nor be deceived. In this faith I intend to live and die. Amen.

4 - Year of Faith, September 2013

Living Our Faith in Society

The Time is Now to Learn the Truth about the nature and beauty of Woman

The Office of Faith

Formation

Sr. Mary In a recent interview after World Youth Day, Pope Francis said, “We talk about whether they can do Juanita this or that: Can they be altar boys? Can they be lectors? About a woman as president of Caritas, but we Gonsalves, don't have a deep theology of women in the Church.” He seems to very much echo his predecessor Pope RSM John Paul II who gave much thought on the nature of woman but then also charged every woman and future generations of women (and men!) to further discover and develop woman's role in the Church and Director find that perfect complementarity of men and women. faithformation @dow.org Pia de Solenni in an article that reflects on Pope Francis' words, notes that the question is not a Christian version of liberal or radical feminism that keeps asking what woman can do.

Instead, Pia points Theresa Martin, out that woman has great dignity in who she is and thus, Endow as Pope Francis declared we need to understand not can Coordinator they do (alter servers, lectors), but who women are, which is a much more profound undertaking.

The magnificent focus on Mary, the mother of Jesus, affirms this view. Pia comments that "it means recognizing that women bring something to the table by virtue of who they are rather than simply by what they do. If Mary’s role as home- By Sr. Mary Juanita Gonsalves, maker had been so vital, Jesus would have left the preparation of the Passover R.S.M. Christian initiation that occurred in meal to her and not to the apostles. (I’m willing to bet she would’ve put on a better On September 15, 2013, the time and in history climaxed in misspread.) She was defined by who she was, by her relation with Jesus, not by what Church will celebrate Catechetical sion ... that it took on the charactershe did. Similarly, we know that the apostles weren’t the smartest or the holiest Sunday. The USCCB notes that istics of visitation. With complete bunch of men. But Jesus didn’t pick them for their accomplishments."

“Catechetical Sunday is a wonder- clarity the account of Luke tells us: If we are to take up the charge that our holy fathers put before us to indeed ful opportunity to reflect on the role “Mary arose and went with haste... develop a deeper understanding of the great dignity of woman, we must under- that each person plays, by virtue of full of the Spirit.” … (The Virgin Mary) literally set stand what the Church currently says and views about her. And it is not what you Baptism, in handing on the faith may first think! If you haven't already, I recommend reading my book, "Woman, and being a witness to the Gospel. out on a journey so as to shorten How Great Thou Art" which is "new feminism for women of today. A thoughtful, Catechetical Sunday is an opportu- distances. She did not remain at the balanced approach to womanhood in the light of Church teaching." It's a very nity for all to rededicate themselves news that her cousin Elizabeth was easy (and humorous) way to begin to see the richness our faith holds for the femi- to this mission as a community of pregnant but went a step further. She faith.” Taking as a model of faith was able to listen with her heart and nine. (It's available on amazon.com or at Angels Everywhere in Winona or Gifts and service, Our Blessed Mother, therefore to be moved by this mystery of Faith in Rochester.)

Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, now of life. Mary’s nearness to her cousin To take the deeper step into laying an amazing foundation in how we view Pope Francis, in a letter to the cat- involved leaving her comfort zone, women, begin your own Endow study group! We have an Endow Facilitators' echists of his Archdiocese of Buenos not remaining self-centered: quite Training on November 9 (see details below). What a great way to do something Aires published for the Year of Faith the contrary. The Yes of Nazareth, to help turn the tides of culture! Women hold the heart of society. If they only on August 21, 2012, reflected on the as always with the attitude of faith, knew with what high esteem God held them, they would cry of joy! Sign up for role that catechists are called to play was transformed into a Yes to putthe training! See for yourself how amazing you truly are! in handing on the faith. ting it into action.... And she who The scripture quote Cardinal by the work of the Holy Spirit was Pia de Solenni's article: www.ncregister.com/daily-news/theology-of-women-in-the-church-only-beginBergoglio used in the letter was from made the Mother of the Son, being ning-to-be-revealed#ixzz2d8gdkFZw Luke 1:39: “In those days, Mary arose moved by that same Spirit was transand went with haste into the hill formed into a servant of all for love of country, to a city of Judah, and her Son. A faith abounding in charshe entered the house of Zechariah ity, capable of taking the trouble to and greeted Elizabeth.” Cardinal embody the pedagogy of God, who is Borgoglio indicated that catechists able to make nearness his identity, like Mary are called to share their his name, his mission: “and his name faith with others. The following are shall be called Emmanuel.” a few of the translated excerpts on A nearness that, I am certain, is “opening the door of faith” in an made present many times in your encounter with others. catechetical encounters with the Cardinal Borgoglio explained that various age-groups that you guide in the “opening of the door of faith as they advance in faith (childrenthere is always a free and personal youth-adults). But still we can be Yes: a Yes that is a response to God affected by distant professionalism, that takes the initiative and draws the misplaced effort to make ournear to man so as to start a dialogue selves “knowledgeable experts,” the with him, in which the gift and the weariness and fatigue that lower our mystery are always made present. defenses and harden our hearts....

A Yes that the Virgin Mother was Let us recall the beautiful passage able to give in the fullness of time, in from the First Letter of Paul to the that humble village of Nazareth, so Christians of Thessalonica: “We were that through this interaction the new gentle among you, like a nurse taking and definitive covenant could begin care of her children. So, being affecwhat God had prepared, in Jesus, for tionately desirous of you, we were all mankind. ready to share with you not only the It always does us good to turn gospel of God but also our own selves, to look at the Blessed Virgin. Even because you had become very dear to more so for those of us to whom is us” (1 Thess 2:7-8). entrusted, in one way or another, Furthermore, though, I ask you the task of guiding the lives of many not to see your field of evangelization brethren, and thus united, to be able as being limited to those who are to to say Yes to the invitation to believe. be catechized. You are privileged to But catechesis would be serious- spread the joy and beauty of the Faith ly compromised if our experience of to their families. May they become faith were to leave us confined in and an echo in your catechetical pastoral anchored to our familiar world or in ministry in this Church of Buenos the structures and spaces that we Aires that wishes to live in a missionhave been creating over the years. ary state.”

To believe in the Lord is always to Cardinal Borgoglio concluded his enter anew through the door of faith letter by asking for prayers that that makes us go out, to set out on a he might be a good catechist. The journey, to leave our comfort zone.... full translation of his letter is found We must not forget that the first online at Catholic World Report.

Opening the Door to Faith:

a Letter to Catechists

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

The Courier, September 2013 - 7

Meet our New Administrators All biographies were submitted by the new principal or his or her staff.

Susan Amundson St. Theodore, Albert Lea

community what a gift our school can be to its children.

Jen Slater St. Mary's School, Madelia

I embark on a new journey.

Being Principal of St. Mary's School and the Director of Noah's Ark Child Care Center, housed inside of our school building. Noah's Ark serves children ages 6 weeks to 5th grade. I look forward to a year of growth for everyone.

Working with Father Thien, the school board, PTO, parents, and staff to grow our children to be the best they can be!

Lori Walz Crucifixion School, LaCrescent My name is Susan Amundson and I am the principal at St. Theodore Catholic School. I grew up on a farm near Twin Lakes, MN, with my loving parents and six amazing siblings in my family. After college, I married a wonderful man named Alan Amundson. God has blessed us with four beautiful children: Derek, Karina, Alex, and Aaron.

Our children have also blessed us with three grandchildren.

I went to the College of St. Benedict, graduating with a BA in Elementary Education along with a Kindergarten and Pre-Kindergarten licensure. After graduation, I subbed for the Albert Lea and Alden School Districts, and then at St. Theodore’s in December of 1995. I was hired as a Kindergarten teacher in February 1996. The following year, I advanced to the 1st grade position and remained there for 15 years. I received the “Walmart Teacher of the Year Award” in 1999. During my years as a 1st grade teacher, I found a desire to work on a Master’s Degree. In 2006, I achieved this goal with a Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning from St. Mary’s University. After teaching 1st grade for many years, I taught a year in 5th Grade and a year in 4th Grade. At the end of the 2012-2013 School Year, I was blessed with the opportunity to be the principal at St. Theodore’s School.

My vision this year for St. Theodore School is to open our Pre-Kindergarten program, work towards our goal of becoming an accredited school, and to increase our enrollment by showing our

I am Catholic! I enjoy being able to proclaim that as part of my career. I grew up in Janesville in the parish of St. Ann's. Father Brown was our priest in my late teen and early adult years.

He was a wonderful model of kindness, caring, service, and the impact that teaching in a Catholic schools can have on others.

My husband and I were blessed to have Father Brown unite us in the sacrament of matrimony almost 14 years ago in my home parish. We have also been blessed with two miracles, Logan, 8 years old and Lillyana, who will be three in November. I have had the privilege of working for Catholic Schools for the past 14 years. I started my teaching career in LeSueur at St. Anne's. I taught 1st graders there for 6 years. I learned so much from the children, staff, and leaders.

I have been with St. Mary's Madelia teaching in a multiage classroom for the last 8 years. St. Mary's is a small, family-feel school that works with parents to ensure that each child is valued and taken where he or she is at and nurtured to grow and become more than they thought they could be.

St. Mary's School, Madelia is the home to students in grades pre-k to 6. I personally have had great growth both personally and professional here. I had the opportunity to learn under Monsignor Cook.

He too was a model of service and shared his love of the Catholic faith with our students and our staff. This year

Lori J. Walz, M.S.- LISW, MA, is a native of Minnesota with nearly 30 years of extensive experience as an Education and Social Service Administrator, College and Pre- K- 12 Instructor and Licensed Independent Social Worker.

Ms. Walz is licensed in three states as an Educator and has held two transition school management positions in both UT and MN. This included leading a Pre-K to 12th grade school system to a full five-year Advanced Ed School Accreditation.

Currently a Pre-KElementary School Principal in Southeastern MN. Ms. Walz holds Masters Degrees in both Psychology and Instruction. Lori has taught in both Higher and PreK-12 education, and has an abiding interest and affinity in student development within an asset building modality.

Her experience as an advisor, consultant and leader in government and nonprofit circles has led to Congressional Commendation.

Lori’s unbounded care for her individual students and the schools she serves is matched only by her same passion to improve the country’s educational system,

especially for underserved youth.

Lori has spent her life working on issues of equity and social justice in both her social work and education career. A Licensed Independent Social Worker in MN, Lori has served as a Director of Non Profits and as Social Service Manager of multiple programs for families and children as well as heading county planning units in areas such as Children’s Mental Health and Home Health Care. Lori is a “systems- thinker” and an adept networker. Her expertise lies in areas of college readiness, asset building, child welfare, grief and loss issues, community relations, cultural diversity issues, and medical social work.

These assets were instrumental in her work over four years at Augsburg Fairview Academy (2007-2011) in developing the Student/ Family Support Programs and Career Counseling Programs.

AF A has a 99% Free and Reduced Lunch population and is essentially an all minority school. Lori’s past experience with these populations along with teaching in an International Prep School helped these students “raise the bar” for themselves not only in their education, but for their future as a whole.

Fr. Robert Schneider Loyola Catholic Schools, Mankato

Fr. Schneider grew up on a farm near Eagle Lake Minnesota. He attended SS Peter & Paul’s Grade School and graduated from Loyola High School in 1970.

He attended Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary on the campus of St. Mary’s

The Office of

Catholic Schools Marsha Stenzel Superintendent mstenzel@dow. org

University, graduating in 1974. After spending four years at St. Paul Seminary he was ordained on June 19, 1978 in the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart with Fr. Richard Colletti and Fr. Gregory Leif.

He began his priestly ministry at St. Augustine Parish in Austin with teaching duties at Pacelli High School. In July of 1982, he was assigned to be principal of Loyola High School in Mankato, with residence at St. Joseph the Worker Parish in Mankato.

In the summer of 1985 he moved to St. John’s parish in Mankato while remaining principal at Loyola.

In July of 1990 he was named pastor of All Saints in Madison Lake. During the first two years, he celebrated the Sunday Mass for the people of St. Andrew’s Church in Elysian, and for nine months St. Ann’s Church in Janesville. He was assigned to St. Theodore and St. James Churches in Freeborn County, in July of 1993.

In July of 2005, he was assigned as Pastor of All Saints Church in Madison Lake and Immaculate Conception Church in St. Clair, as well as Junior Religion instructor at Loyola High School. In July of 2006 he was replaced by Fr. Sutton at Loyola and continues to be pastor in St. Clair and Madison Lake where he resides.

Father Schneider has a lifelong connection with Loyola High School and looks forward to many more years working with Loyola Families as the High School Chaplain and Loyola Catholic School President. Fr. Schneider is convinced that the best opportunity for a child to grow into adulthood happens in an environment where the growth of the entire person is nurtured. In terms of making sense out of life and finding our way home to God, nothing is more important than the spiritual development of our children. Loyola Catholic School in Mankato provides that Catholic Spiritual environment. Our school is open to all children, regardless of financial means. He encourages every family to come and see what Loyola has to offer.

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

8 -The Courier, September 2013

Camp Summit: Rise Up! By: Ben Frost

“You’ve got to RISE UP!” – This was a common phrase to hear during the first ever Camp Summit event held at Eagle Bluff in Lanesboro MN. Jr. High students from across the Diocese sang and danced to these words which were highlighted in our theme song for the week. The words fit perfectly for our camp as all the young people rose to the occasion in more ways than one. As campers arrived there was a noticeable excitement in the air, but yet a sense of the unknown. Participants and adults jumped right in and never looked back. There were many memorable camp activities for our youth. Many were able to “Rise Up” and conquer the high ropes, others were able to “Rise Up” the climbing wall.

And for those less comfortable with heights, there were field games, groups challenges, nature hikes,

rosary making, camp fires and many more activities to bring the group together. These activities were a blast, but if you ask our campers what the highlights were, you would find that many would share of their deep encounter of faith. Evening sessions encouraged the youth to live as courageous young Catholics. Talks, testimonies and dramas encouraged our hearts, and prayer sessions helped put our group in touch with the Lord. Each evening students had the chance to pray in Eucharistic Adoration and go to confession.

Fr. Will Thompson led the youth and invited them to draw closer to the Lord. Youth gathered close to the monstrance and took time to pray, listen and adore through song. They also formed long lines for the reconciliation. These prayer times were memorable and the Holy Spirit was hard at work. Daily Mass was also a part of our experience. We were joined by some of our Diocese finest including: Fr. Andrew Vogal, Fr. Will Thompson, Fr. Marty Schaefer, Msgr.

Rick Colletti and Bishop John Quinn.

The Eucharist is called the “Source and Summit” of our faith, and it was fitting that Camp Summit flowed from the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

The Office of Youth & Young Adults It was also a huge blessing to have Ben Frost a high school leadership team called Director “Team FIAT” to encourage the jr. bfrost@dow.org high students for the week. These

fine young men and women worked on logistics, testimonies, dramas, and helped to lead small groups.

As Bishop Quinn said during his Camp Summit homily: “The Church is in good hands”. I echo these words and feel a great source of consolation seeing firsthand the joy and enthusiasm of our youngest Catholics. We can all learn from their example. It’s time for us all to RISE UP!

World Youth Day - "Go and Make Disciples of All Nations!"

By: Ben Frost

A few short years ago we were closing the World Youth Day gathering in Madrid Spain and it was announced that Rio De Janiero would be the next host for the global gathering.

There was much anticipation about the announcement, for this was the first time that World Youth Day would be hosted in South America.

As we planned our Diocesan preparations there were many questions about logistical concerns, costs and safety, but the event came together and before you knew it, it was time to depart for Rio. This was my fifth time attending World Youth Day, and to be honest, it was probably had the deepest impact on my life. The reason for this was likely the depth of faith witnessed by the South Americans and Brazilians we met along the way. Our first stop once we stopped in Brazil was to a small town called Jacarei.

Our group was tired from the plane ride, but when we arrived at the local Catholic Church we were welcomed by an entire community. In large part, no one could communicate with the exception of a few locals and our group priest (who spoke Portuguese),

but the Holy Spirit knows no barriers.

For two days these people welcomed us into their homes, shared meals with us, put on Fiestas and Dances, and most importantly prayed with us and celebrated the Sacraments with us. Two days felt like two months and when it was time to go, there was not a dry eye in sight. I knew it was something special when we arrived at our hotel in Rio and when checking facebook saw that I had twenty new friend requests! What a blessing the people of Jacarei hold in our hearts.

Our group consisted of members from the Diocese of Winona, New Ulm, Duluth and Detroit. We also had a group of Ukrainian Rite Catholics which was also a great blessing for our group. Our fearless priest leader Father Daniel helped lead our group as he spoke Portuguese and grew up in Brazil. As always, there were a few logistical bumps during World Youth Day. We climbed the Corcavado statue on a rainy and cloudy day and could barely see ones hand in front of your face (no beautiful view of Rio).

We also struggled to pick up our world youth day registrations as it was located 60 miles from our Hotel and

after our first attempt they ran out of backpacks. But our group persevered and grew closer together and to our Lord. Catechetical sessions were very powerful.

English speaking bishops including Cardinal Dolan and Cardinal O’Malley shared with the young people and took their questions. They also celebrated Mass daily and prepared our hearts for the Holy Father.

Our group was blessed to get close to Pope Francis a few times while on Copa Cabana. He took time to kiss lots of babies and it was great to get so close to the Vicar of Christ.

I was especially encouraged by the Holy Father’s Sunday Mass homily. Our group listened in with our radio headphones, and I recall how beautifully the Pope could relate to young Catholics. He talked about soccer, and life, and how we need work hard and practice our faith so that we can become the best Disciples of Christ possible. This message was

received well. The 3.5 million people in attendance seem to respond differently from my experiences in the past.

There was a prayerfulness and reverence in Rio that exceeded my previous experiences. Many of the people came from Brazil and Argentina and I would venture to say that the Church is very alive in these two countries!

In conclusion, I would like to say that I’ve been a witness to great hope in our Church. We often see tones of negativity in the media and even at times in our own pews, but we are in a time of great hope. I pray that the people in our Diocese are able to sense this hope and join together to share witness to this hope. May we all go and make disciples of all nations!

EVANGELIZATION & APOLOGETICS

The Courier, September 2013 - 9

Lukewarmness - The Underhanded Spiritual Killer.

7th Promise of the Sacred Heart of Jesus: "Lukewarm souls shall become fervant."

By: Raymond de Souza

Sometimes a comment made in passing by a Pope may carry a lot of weight, and cause a very deep impression on people, much more than a formal allocution or encyclical.

I refer to Pope Benedict XVI. In July 2005, in the course of an impromptu address to some 140 priests of Italy, in the Diocese of Aosta, he addressed the widespread religious indifference that exists in Europe and the Western society in general. He said that “the so-called great churches seem to be dying especially in Australia and Europe, but not so much in the United States”.

He did not exclude the Catholic Church from the list of the dying Churches in Australia and Europe.

But he saw hope in the United States.

As an Australian citizen of ultimate European descent myself, I was shocked to hear Pope Benedict himself publicly acknowledging that the great churches in Europe and Australia seem to be dying.

What could have caused such an apparent death, especially in the Holy Roman, Catholic and Apostolic Church?

I have mentioned in a previous article that the

greatest evil for the Church today is not any anti-Catholic lobby (abortion, euthanasia, homosexuality, Islam, etc.)

No. The greatest evil is the unwillingness of the good to become better. Lukewarmness is the word.

The sloppy state of soul that produces the spiritual lameness that prevents Catholics from assuming their full role in society. That is an evil immensely worse than open antagonism against the Church. It is the greatest enemy of evangelization, because the lukewarm is not interested in converting anybody.

And, our beloved Savior abhors lukewarmness so much that the word ‘lukewarm’ is found only once in the whole Bible! Apocalypse, 3:15. In a letter to the angel of the church of Laodicea (in Scripture the ‘angel’ is the local bishop, not the angelic spirit that protects it): “I know your works, that you are neither cold, nor hot. I would you were cold, or hot. But because you are lukewarm, and neither cold, not hot, I will begin to vomit you out of my mouth”. It is a very graphic description of His abhorrence of lukewarmness.

Although He abhors lukewarmness so much, the Sacred Heart of Jesus promises those who are lukewarm, to make them fervent, if they work to become His true devotees. That is the seventh promise.

For us to understand the great benefits of the seventh promise of the Sacred Wilson Township Heart of Jesus, we must, first of all, understand, and understand it very well, 5 p.m. - St. Matthew, Vernon Center what lukewarmness truly is.

Sunday, September 15 The great Saint Alphonsus Liguori, 8 a.m. - Holy Redeemer, Eyota Doctor of the Church, dissected the hor8:30 a.m. - St. Gabriel, Fulda rible spiritual disease of lukewarmness in Monday, September 16 a famous sermon. Let St Alphonsus have 8:15 a.m. - St. John the Baptist, Mankato the floor. In his sermon, he addresses the 8:30 a.m. - St. Columbanus, Blooming Prairie lukewarm priest, but his exhortation can Tuesday, September 17 be perfectly applicable to us lay folks.

8:30 a.m. - St. Finbarr, Grand Meadow First he mentions the Bishop of 8:30 a.m. - Sacred Heart, Hayfield Ephesus: ‘The Lord commanded St. John Wednesday, September 18, in the Apocalypse to write to the Bishop of 8 a.m. - St. Ann, Janesville Ephesus the following words: ‘I know your 8:30 a.m. - St. Mary, Caledonia works, and your labor, and your patience.

Thursday, September 19, I know well all that you do; I know your

Masses of Reparation for sins in the diocese Many parishes throughout the diocese committed to offer consolation to the Heart of Christ through a Mass of Reparation. At least one Mass will be said every day: Sunday, September 1 10 a.m. - St. Francis of Assisi, Rochester Monday, September 2 8:30 a.m. - St. Casimir, Wells Tuesday, September 3 8 a.m. - St. Pius X, Rochester 8:30 a.m. - St. Anthony, Lismore 9 a.m. - Queen of Angels, Austin Wednesday, September 4 12:10 p.m. - St. John the Evangelist, Rochester Thursday, September 5 9 a.m. - Pax Christi, Rochester 2 p.m. - St. Johns Health Care Center, Albert Lea 6:30 p.m. - St. James, St. James Friday, September 6 9 a.m. - Holy Family, Kasson Saturday, September 7 5 a.m. - St. Augustine, Austin 5 AM, St. Edward, Austin 5 PM, Immaculate Heart of, Mary, Currie Sunday, September 8 8 a.m. - Holy Family, East Chain 8 a.m. - St. James, Twin Lakes 8:30 a.m. - St. Mary, Minneiska Monday, September 9 8:30 a.m. - St. Luke, Sherburn Tuesday, September 10 5 p.m. - St. Francis de Sales, Claremont Wednesday, September 11 7 a.m. - Ss. Peter and Paul, Mankato 8 a.m. - St. Mary, Madelia 8:30 a.m. - St. Kilian, St. Kilian 9 a.m. - St. Mary of the Lake LakeCity 5:15 p.m. - St. Mary, Worthington Thursday, September 12 8 a.m. - St. Felix, Wabasha 8:30 a.m. - St. Adrian, Adrian 8:30 a.m. - St. Ignatius Spring, Valley 9 a.m. - Immaculate Conception, Kellogg 10 a.m. - St. Paul, Minnesota City 2 p.m. - Good Samaritan, Albert Lea 3:15 p.m. - St. Joseph, Lakefield 6:30 p.m. - St. Aidan, Ellendale Saturday, September 14 4:30 p.m. - Immaculate Conception,

8:30 a.m. - St. John Vianney, Fairmont 9:15 a.m. - Sacred Heart, Waseca 2 p.m. - Thorncrest Nursing Home, Albert Lea Friday, September 20 8:30 a.m. - St. Joachim, Plainview 4:30 p.m. - Holy Trinity, Rollingstone Saturday, September 21 4:30 p.m. - Holy Spirit, Rochester 7 p.m. - St. Aloysius, Elba Sunday, September 22 8:30 a.m. - St. Anthony, Westbrook 9 a.m. - St. John Baptist de La Salle, Dodge Center 8 p.m. - St. Joseph, Owatonna Monday, September 23 8:30 a.m. - Good Shepherd, Jackson Tuesday, September 24 8 a.m. - St. Theodore, Albert Lea 9 a.m. - Christ the King, Byron Wednesday, September 25, 5 p.m. - St. Patrick, LeRoy Thursday, September 26, 8 a.m. - St. Bernard, Stewartville 9:15 a.m. - Sacred Heart, Waseca, 2 p.m. - Oak Park Place, Albert Lea Friday, September 27 8 a.m. - St. Charles Borromeo, St. Charles 8:30 a.m. - Our Lady of Good Counsel, Wilmont Saturday, September 28 8:30 a.m. - St. Rose of Lima, Lewiston Sunday, September 29 8 a.m. - St. Vincent de Paul, West, Concord 6 p.m. - Holy Spirit, Rochester Monday, September 30 8:30 a.m. - St. Teresa, Mapleton

The Office of Evangelization & Apologetics

labors for my glory; I Raymond know your patience de Souza in the toils of your office. But He adds: But I have somewhat Director against you, because you have left your rdesouza@ dow.org first love. But I must reprove you for having fallen away from your first fervor.’

‘But what great evil was here in this? What great evil? Listen to what our Lord adds: ‘be mindful, therefore, from whence you are fallen . . . and do penance... Remember whence you have fallen; do penance, and return to the first fervor, with which you are bound to live, otherwise I will reject you as unworthy of the ministry that I have committed to you’.

‘Is lukewarmness, then, productive of so much ruin? Yes, it brings with it great ruin, and the greatest evil is, that his ruin is not known to the lukewarm, and is, therefore, neither avoided nor feared by them. The majority of the lukewarm are shipwrecked on this blind rock of lukewarmness, and therefore many of them are lost. I call it a blind rock: because the great danger of perdition to which the lukewarm are exposed consists in this, that their lukewarmness does not allow them to see the great havoc that it produces in the soul.

‘Many are not willing to be altogether separated from Jesus Christ; they wish to follow Him, but they wish to follow Him from a distance, like St. Peter, who, when the Redeemer was seized in the garden, followed Him from afar off. But they that act in this manner, shall easily fall into the misfortune which befell St. Peter, who, when charged by a servant maid with being a disciple of the Redeemer, thrice denied Jesus Christ.’

That was the exhortation to the Bishop of Ephesus, who had begun to move towards lukewarmness, as he had ‘left his first love’. The Bishop of Laodicea was already fully lukewarm. He is the one to whom Jesus used a much stronger language.

Next article: Lukewarmness, part II. Laodicea on the limelight - A study not to be missed!

10 - The Courier, September 2013

SOCIAL JUSTICE

Catholic Charities’ Volunteer Leads Food Shelf Expansion in Mankato Submitted by Jennifer Halberg Citizens of Mankato celebrated when Echo Food Shelf, a key food distribution facility for area families and individuals in crisis, moved from its existing residential home on 2nd Street to the warehouse on South Front Street in November, 2010. Sprawling as it seemed, the space quickly filled up; more shelves were needed, and the inefficient refrigerator and freezer units maxed the facility on its monthly electric bill.

Just two years after moving to the new location, Bob Marsh, a former builder and contractor, joined Common Good RSVP, a program of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Winona that helps people find volunteer opportunities in their communities. With the support of Common Good RSVP program staff, Bob soon began volunteering at Echo Food Shelf.

Coincidently, Bob was once a client of Echo Food Shelf himself; after losing his business and becoming homeless. He realizes now that he didn’t always make the right choices, yet when he experienced first-hand how Echo Food Shelf helped him in his time of need, he knew he wanted to give back when and how he could.

Now, Bob uses his construction skills to improve the food shelf’s capacity and efficiency.

It started with a handicap-accessible bathroom, and went on to repairing walls, painting, installing cost-saving lighting, and other space-saving projects.

Really, Bob is more of an “idea man,” and, as Deisy DeLeon, Volunteer Coordinator at Echo Food Shelf put it, “Bob is always moving….full of ideas. He will be working on one project and he’ll come up to me and say, I have a great idea!”

But, as she reflected back several “ideas ago,” she is never certain where they will land from the beginning. She said that so far, all of them have worked out extremely well for the organization.

Bob grew up in a time when young people were serving their country, as he did; programming the large guns on ships in the waters around Vietnam. Though he endured many residual effects from the war, including neuropathy (loss of feeling) in his feet and post-traumatic stress, his drive to give to his community and those in need never ceases. In fact, he once had his gall bladder removed on a Thursday and returned to the food shelf the following Monday to continue a construction project.

Last summer, Bob embarked on extending the storage facility, laying block up to twelve feet high. He drove hundreds of miles and acquired large donations from businesses and contractors to obtain supplies, equipment and services. He framed and installed large walk-in cooler and freezer units that replaced the old freezers and work on top-of-the-line systems that have since saved over $600 per month in electrical costs.

Bob brought key people from the city, engineering firms, HV/AC enterprises and even grocery stores in to assist with their areas of expertise of this warehouse expansion. Recently, Bob’s artistic creativity also inspired him to spearhead a mural project for the back side of the warehouse wall, which faces out towards passing Riverfront Drive motorists. Instead of a blank block wall, students and faculty from the local community college are painting a mural depicting what Echo Food Shelf is about: fruits, vegetables and general sustenance.

Overall, the add-on warehouse project would

Position Available

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Winona has an immediate opening for a full-time Director of Advancement (DA) to work in our Rochester, Minnesota office. Working closely with the Executive Director , the DA plans, implements, and manages all fund development activities including direct mail, planned giving, major individual and corporate gifts, and special fundraising events. Also designs and implements Catholic Charities’ communication plan whose primary emphasis is to build relationships with donors.

A master’s degree in philanthropy or development is preferred, or a bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, or related field with significant professional training in fund development and philanthropy. Must have at least five or six years of fund development experience, the last three of which include personally building relationships with donors, making the ask, and securing the gift. Applicants must have strong managerial, strategic planning, and motivational skills, outstanding written and verbal communication skills, a strong commitment to working collaboratively, and the personal energy, enthusiasm and drive to develop a program that exceeds goals and overcomes obstacles.

Please mail resume, cover letter, and list of three work-related references to Robert Tereba, Executive Director, Catholic Charities, PO Box 379, Winona, MN 55987 or email rtereba@ccwinona.org. Job is open until filled.

have cost Echo Food Shelf well over $350,000, but with Bob’s work and ingenuity, only cost them $11,000. He has worked alongside many other dedicated volunteers at Echo Food Shelf who share his passion. His persistence in getting donations, finding the appropriate resources and the amazing amounts of labor has allowed the food shelf to begin to accept frozen food and meat, and refrigerator items they could not have stored in the past. “It’s already getting full,” Bob said. He realizes he will always have more to do to provide the food shelf with the space and facility conditions they need to help others. “There’s a lot of good people there; and a lot of good people who have been down the same road I have,” said Bob. Soon, Bob will embark on another meaningful adventure. He and his lifelong friend Gary, who also served in Vietnam, are traveling to Vietnam with Habitat for Humanity International, where they will work with others to build 25 homes. When asked why he has chosen to do this, he shared a story about a day when he was serving his country in Vietnam. He recalls a particular instance when a company of soldiers positioned on land radioed to him on the ship, requesting him to set coordinates to save their troops from being overcome. Bob recently learned that the soldier who radioed him from land that day was Gary. Gary and the soldiers in his company lived because of Bob’s actions.

Emotional, Bob said the trip was necessary for closure. And, giving back alongside Gary would help both of them with that process.

Along with many other dedicated Common Good RSVP volunteers at Echo Food Shelf, support for Bob’s projects and ventures will continue. These combined efforts support Mankato’s citizens in need and continue to make their community a more fulfilling place to live.

Spanish Mass Schedule Albert Lea, St. Theodore, Spanish Mass, 11 a.m., every Sunday.

Austin, Queen of Angels, Spanish Mass at 11 a.m and 5 p.m. every Sunday.

Dodge Center, St. John Baptist de La Salle, Spanish Mass, 11 a.m., every Sunday.

Fairmont, St. John Vianney, Spanish Mass, 2 p.m., every Sunday.

Lake City, St. Mary, Spanish Mass, 6:30 p.m., every third Saturday.

Madelia, St. Mary, Spanish Mass, 10 a.m., every Sunday.

Mankato, Ss. Peter and Paul, Spanish Mass, 1 p.m., every Sunday.

Owatonna, Sacred Heart, Spanish Mass, 1 p.m. every Sunday.

Pipestone, St. Leo, Spanish Mass, 2:30 p.m., every Sunday Rochester, St. Francis of Assisi, Spanish Mass, 12 noon, every Sunday.

St. Charles, St. Charles

Borromeo, Spanish Mass, 11:30 a.m., every Sunday.

St. James, St. James, Spanish Mass, 12 p.m., every Sunday.

Waseca, Sacred Heart, Spanish Mass, 11:30 a.m., every Sunday.

Windom, St. Francis Xavier, Spanish Mass, 12 p.m., every Sunday Worthington, St. Mary, Spanish Mass, Saturday at 7 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m.

Hispanic Priests/Sacerdotes Hispanos: Padre Luis Alfonso Vargas Capellán del Decanato de Worthington lukiponcho@yahoo.es Tel. 507-341-0403 Padre José Morales Capellán del Decanato de Rochester jloralesr2008@yahoo.es Tel. 507-329-2931 Padre Carlos Arturo Calderón Capellán del Decanato de Mankato fathercarlos@hotmail.com Padre Mariano Varela IVE Párroco de “SS. Peter and Paul” en Mankato mvarela@hickorytech.net Tel. 507-388-2995 ext 103 Padre Octavio Cortez IVE Vicario Parroquial de “Ss. Peter and Paul” en

Mankato Tel. 507-388-2995 Padre Raul Silva Pastor de “All Saints” en New Richland, “St. Aidan” en Ellendale, “St. Mary” en Geneva padreraulsilva@gmail.com Padre Rafael Chávez Capellán del Decanato de Austin/Albert Lea rchcanahua@hotmail.com Padre Wellington Muñoz Vicario Parroquial de “Queen of Angels” en Austin, “All Saints” en New Richland, “St. Aidan” en Ellendale, “St. Mary” en Geneva munozwel@gmail.com Tel. 507-433-1889

The Courier, September 2013 - 11

IN THE DIOCESE

September Event Calendar Parish and Community Events Mass for Life & Marriage St. Mary’s Church, Winona offers a Mass for Life and Marriage on both the first and third Thursday of the month, at 5:15 p.m. Rosary at 4:50 p.m. Call the office for updates.

Sat, Sept 7, at the Church of the Resurrection, Rochester. All invited to attend the 8:30 a.m. Mass.

Community prayer at 9 a.m. followed by explaining the charism, traditions and spirit of Carmel.

For info: contact Celia Wright at 507-281-4482.

Holy Hour of Prayer, St. Mary's Church, Winona will host the monthly Holy Hour of Prayer for Life, Marriage, and Religious Liberty on Saturday, Sept 21 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Everyone is welcome.

St Joachim’s Catholic Church, Plainview Annual Fall Festival Sept 28 and 29. On Sept 28: 1st Annual Harvest 5K Run/Walk 9 a.m.

Father/Daughter Ball 6 - 8:30 p.m. Sept 29: 10:30 a.m. Mass with music by Joel Hennessy of Christian Crossings, followed by a day of great food and fun family activities. A chicken dinner from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost $10 for a half-chicken dinner & $8 for a quarter-chicken dinner. Activities start at 11 a.m. & include music, quilt and bake sale, auctions, petting zoo and much more.

Saint Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Mazeppa Hosts its annual Fall Bazaar September 15. Ham & Turkey Dinner 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Adults - $11, Children 5-10 - $5, 4 & under - $1. Bingo, Raffle, Country Store, and Children’s Games. Catholic United Financial providing Matching Fund Grant.

St. Aloysius Catholic Church, Elba is celebrating its “100” Year Celebration & Fall Festival on Sun, Sept 8. Festivities start with Mass at 10 a.m. followed by a Roast beef dinner. There will also be a Cash Raffle, Silent Auction, Farmers Market/Bake Sale as well as other activities.

Holy Redeemer Catholic Church, Eyota Annual Fall Festival Celebration on Sunday, Sept 15. Join us at for a Polka Mass at 10 a.m. followed by a BBQ Chicken Dinner. Many activities are planned including: a Big Ticket Raffle, Arms Length Raffle. For info contact the parish office at 507-932-3294.

Bible Study, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart and St. Mary’s, Winona “The Bible Timeline – The Story of Salvation” by Jeff Cavins. For more information: Jean 608-6879546 or Donna 507-454-1296.

St. Adrian, Adrian will host its annual fall dinner on Sept 15 in the church parlors from 4 - 7 p.m. Come join us for a dinner & desserts and beverages! The big ticket will have over one-hundred prizes. Many raffle items along with a country store and a fish pond for the kids.

Church of the Resurrection, Rochester Divine Mercy Day of Reflection on Sept 14. Learn about "Divine Mercy as a Way of Life" with Dr. Bryan Thatcher and Annie Karto.

Holy Mass and installation of St. Faustina 1st class relic - 8:30 a.m.

Conference - 9:30 a.m - 4:30 p.m.

Register @ www.rescathroch.org and click on the Divine Mercy icon to download registration form. divinemercy@resurrection-catholic.org Individual: $15, Couple: $25, Lunch is included.

Lay Carmelite, Open House

St. Mary’s Church, Houston Annual Fall Chicken Dinner.

Sept 8 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Chicken Dinners are $8.50 for ½ & $7. 50 for ¼. Ticket available for Cash Drawings, HandCrafted Wooden Bowl & other items. Drawing the day of the Dinner, need not be present to win. Carry-outs are available.

St. Anthony Parish, Lismore Bazaar and Auction will be held on Sept 8. Roast beef, mashed potatoes, glazed carrots, tea rolls, coleslaw, relish, assorted pies dinner and beverage from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Everyone is invited to spend the day in Lismore.

Sacred Heart Fall Festival, Waseca Fall Festival Sept 13-15. Sat street Dance Power House, Food and beverages available. Advance ticket sales 12 for $5 in rectory or school.

St. John's Church, Johnsburg Annual Turkey & Ham. Sun, Sept 8. From 3:30 to 7 p.m. Turkey, Ham, Dressing, Potatoes & Gravy, Pie. $9 Adults & Take-Out Meals, $5 Children ages 5-12, $2 Children ages 4 and under.

St. Leo's Church, Pipestone Annual Fall Festival on Sunday September, 15th. A Pork Loin dinner will be served and from 10:30am to 1pm. We will be having Horse Rides, Country Store and a raffle with many prizes to be won.

Immaculate Heart of Mary, Currie will hold their Annual Fall Dinner on Sunday September 8th. Serving from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Menu includes Turkey & dressing, mashed potatoes & gravy, vegetable, salad & pie.

St. Pius X, Rochester Mark your calendars and make plans to attend the 2013 Fall Festival on Sun, Sept 29, from

11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Start out with a terrific pulled pork meal for only $8 (adults) or $5 (children 5-10). Pizza, egg rolls, ice cream and more also available.

Browse the many great items at the silent auction. Even watch the Vikings/Lions game. Raffle with over $1,300 in prizes ($500 first prize). Come join in the fun.

St. Joseph, Good Thunder Is hosting Festival in The Park on Sun, Sept 8. Mass at noon, family fun until 4. Live music, great food, kids games, bingo, “Like New” garage sale, silent auction, bake sale, fresh produce, relaxation and great conversation!

Invite your family and friends to join the festivities in our beautiful park.

St. Felix, Wabasha annual Fall Festival from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the St. Felix Auditorium and School Grounds. The day will feature fresh homemade donuts, grilled chicken dinners, the farm store, general and specialty auctions, bingo, a bounce house, kids games, tootsie roll booth, lots of raffles, tons of prizes, and so much more. Join us for food, fun and friendship. All proceeds go to St. Felix School. For more information call 651-5654446."

St. Joseph, Jasper will hold their annual Chicken Supper on Sun, Sept 8 at the Church Hall. Fried chicken, potatoes & gravy, corn, cole slaw and a variety of pies and desserts will be served from 4 to 6:30 p.m.

Adults are $8.00 and children ages 5-12 are $3.00.

Christ the King Parish, Byron Sept 28 Autumn Festival. Join us for our Silent Auction, Dinner and Raffle. Doors open at 3 p.m. for bidding on the silent auction items. A delicious “allyou-can-eat” Autumn Dinner of roast pork, dressing, homemade applesauce, cheesy potatoes, cole slaw, rolls and pie will be served from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dinner prices are: Adults $10, Seniors $9, & children ages 6 – 12 $5A household family fee will be $35.00.

Saint Ann, Janesville will celebrate their annual Fall Festival Sat Sept 7 & Sun Sept 8. Sat begins with outdoor Mass at 4 p.m. under the Big Top, followed by Pork Sandwich dinner. Sunday Mass is at 10 a.m. in church followed by famous Turkey Dinner till 12:30. Baskets, Beer Garden help make for a fun filled week-end. Turkey Dinner tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids over 5. Children under 5 eat free. Advance tickets are $1 cheaper.

St. Finbarr, Grand Meadow, St. Patrick, LeRoy and St. Ignatius, Spring Valley will hold their annual Tri-­Parish Harvest Mass at 10 a.m. Sept.22 at the home of Bryan and Kathy

Please note: submission deadline is the 15th

O’Connell, located northwest of Spring Valley. A free picnic lunch will be served after Mass. All are welcome to attend.

Help Save Lives from September 25 - November 3

KICKOFF RALLY

St. Patrick Parish, West Sunday · Sept. 15th · 1 – 4 PM Albany Park · Mankato Instead of our Ray Erlandson (intersection of Main St and N. Victory Dr) annual aucFeaturing: tion, we will Music, Prayer, Pro-­‐Life Booths, Campaign Information and Vicki Thorn* be hosting a speaker, Vicki Thorn is the foundress of Project Rachel Chicken BBQ *Guest and the executive director of the national Office of Post-Abortion

& Healing located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Fall Festival on Reconciliation She is an international speaker and author on the topics of abortion’s aftermath in women, men and others, as well as the Sun, October process of post-abortion healing. She has written and spoken about changes in society since 1960 and the spiritual and 13, from 11 a.m. the sociological

psychological wounds carried by Gen X and Gen Y as a result of to 2 p.m. BBQ those changes. The audiences she attracts range from high school adult.

Chicken din- through Thorn has a degree in Psychology from the University of Minnesota a certificate in Spiritual Direction. She is a ner includes bereavementandfacilitator trained by the American Academy of and a prenatal loss facilitator certified by Resolve

baked potato, Bereavement Through Sharing Prenatal Loss. vegetable, roll, beverages and www.40daysforlife.com/mankato homemade dessert. There will also be our famous silent auc- Prayer Vigil and Public Witness tion along with quilt raffle, other against Abortion raffle and kids games with fun Semcac Clinic is a delegate of prizes.

Planned Parenthood – the nation's leading abortion proSt. Francis de Sales, Claremont vider. Please consider joining a will hold its annual fall bazaar local group from 3-4 p.m. each and turkey dinner from 11 a.m. Tuesday in front of Semcac at to 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 15. 62 E 3rd Street in Winona for The bazaar features a cake walk, an hour of prayer. Contact Will bake sale, fresh produce, silent Goodman at (608) 698-7443. auction, bingo and games. A traditional turkey dinner is served Immaculate Heart of Mary family style, pie and beverage.

Church, Currie Meal cost is $9 for those 11 and Wanted: Part-time job as Director older and $5 for those ages 4 of Religious Education and Youth through 10. Take outs are avail- Minister. Want someone who is able. Mass is at 10 a.m. organized, loves working with children, and is on fire for the St. John Baptist de la Salle, Catholic faith. Please call Father Dodge Center Vogel at 507.295.1030.

22nd Annual Turkey & Ham Dinner Sun Sept 29 11 a.m. 1 p.m. served family style Adults-$9.00 Children 6-10 $4.50 preschool - free. Raffle $1.00 Silent Auction. Bake sale.

Traditional Latin Mass Schedule Alpha, St. Alphonsus Liguori, weekly and daily. Sunday: 5 p.m. except second Sunday of the month variable.

Guckeen, Our Lady of Ransom, weekly. Sunday, 11 a.m., except second Sunday of the month, 9:15 a.m.

Mankato, Ss. Peter and Paul, first Saturday month, 9 a.m.

Rochester (Simpson), St. Bridget, first and third Sundays of the month, 1 p.m.

Wabasha, St. Felix, weekly. Saturday 8 a.m.

Chatfield, St. Mary's, Saturday morning, please check with the parish for the time.

The Televised Mass Offered as a service for the homebound and elderly. Every Sunday on the following stations: KTTC-TV, Channel 10, Rochester at 9 a.m. KEYC-TV, Channel 12, Mankato at 7:30 a.m. Donations for the continuation of this program may be sent to: TV Mass, PO Box 588, Winona MN 55987.

Thank you for your donations to the TV Mass

12 -The Courier, September 2013

IN THE DIOCESE

h r e e - Ye a r W i n o n a Abuelos y Nietos Juntos T Diocesan Planning Process

Submitted by Lisa M. Kremer, OFS

This past July a group from Worthington - fourteen children, ages 9-13, and ten adults – traveled to Guatemala on a journey that had a scope beyond any ordinary ‘mission trip’. This was a quest to unite families. The children, all US born citizens of immigrant parents, had the opportunity to visit the homeland of their parents, to meet their grandparents for the first time, and in two cases, older siblings they had never met. One child saw his mother for the first time in four years. The trip was sponsored by “Abuelos y Nietos Juntos” (Spanish for “Grandparents and Grandchildren Together”), a project conceived Families were reunited; some children had never met through the expressed their grandparents. desires of our Guatemalan immigrants and inspired by the statements that the US Catholic Bishops have made regarding immigration reform and the unification of families (for more information please visit www.justiceforimmigrants.org).

The idea started about a year and a half ago, when some of the area Guatemalan immigrants heard that there was group travelling from Worthington to Guatemala to learn about the culture and the lives of the people there. They asked the organizers of that trip if it would be possible for the travelers to go and visit their families in Guatemala. Many of our immigrants have been here in the US for 15 or 20 years and haven’t seen their families since they came, and they hope for any connection they can make between their lives here and their families there. For various reasons, a number of the adults who have come here can’t return to Guatemala to visit their families, but they have children who were born here and are US citizens. So the group went to Guatemala, met the grandparents there, and discovered how deeply they mourn the fact that they have never met their grandchildren in the US. Then the idea came that it might be possible to take the children there to meet their families in Guatemala for the first time. And so, the project, “Abuelos y Nietos Juntos” was born.

After months of promotion, fundraising and planning, the group left for Guatemala on July 2nd, 2013.Fourteen children who had never flown before or been away from their parents for more than a night or two were entrusted to seven wonderful volunteer chaperones and three priests, Fr. Jim Callahan and Fr. Luis Vargas, of St. Mary, Worthington, and Fr. Russell Scepaniak of St. Francis Xavier, Windom. When the meeting between these children and their grandparents finally came, it was an experience that defies words. Imagine the joy of grandparents hugging for the first time a grandchild they had previously had no hope of meeting in this life. One grandmother told us, “Today this child is born to me”, expressive of a Guatemalan tradition that a child isn’t “born” to another family member until they meet that child. Two sets of siblings met for the first time, a nineyear-old boy and his fourteen-year-old brother, and a nine-year-old girl and her twelve-year-old sister. The bonds of these siblings were immediate and incredibly strong; both pairs were inseparable for the entire time they were together. Then, after spending a week with their families, the time came to say good-bye, which was a combination of sadness and gratitude for the time they had spent together. The paradox of joy and pain were threads woven through the entire experience, which served as a strong reminder for us who were blessed to witness and be a part of this that God doesn’t intend for families to be separated.

Another blessing of our adventure has been the interest and support of filmmaker, Luis Argueta (producer/director of “abUSed – The Story of the Postville Iowa Raid”). Mr. Argueta has been a part of the planning for the trip from the beginning, and went along to film the experience. He will be making a documentary that will tell the stories of these immigrant families in hopes to raise awareness and encourage positive immigration reform in our country.

The trip had many special highlights, including meeting several Guatemalan Bishops and an invitation to the Presidential Palace where the children were hosted at a reception in their honor given by First Lady, Rosa Leal de Perez and also had a surprise visit from President Oscar Perez. But the most incredible gift of the experience was the family connections that will The children met President Perez & First Lady. hopefully be strengthened by a new openness to our immigrants here in the US, and a genuine appreciation for their contributions.

Lisa Kremer is Coordinator of Faith Formation at St. Gabriel in Fulda, and Project Coordinator of Abuelos y Nietos Juntos. If you would like more information about future projects and how you can be involved, you may contact her at lisakremer@hotmail.com or “Abuelos y Nietos Juntos”, PO Box 445, Fulda, MN 56131

Continues this Fall

By Rev. Msgr. Richard M. Colletti

As you are aware, the DOW pastoral planning process started in January 2013 in deaneries throughout the diocese. Over the last six months deanery representatives came up with initial plans for their deanery and the parish clusters of parishes within their deanery. These plans were presented to the Diocesan Pastoral planning Advisory Planning Committee in May. The next step is for pastors, deacons, deanery representatives, parish councils, and parish staff to complete a parish self-study from which a three year plan will be developed.

This is especially important for parish clusters that might experience change within the cluster or change in Mass schedules.

Parishes will begin to write their self study this Fall. This will be brought back to the deanery level and eventually to the Diocesan Planning Advisory Committee and Bishop Quinn. The format for this part of our planning process will reflect each parish’s gifts in stewardship, sacramental life and outreach for future growth.

The Presbyteral Council will be giving input for this process of Parish SelfStudy at their September meeting.

These pastoral plans written by each parish and will be brought to the deanery level and the deanery representatives. Our goal is that this process will help the Catholic Church in Southern Minnesota more effectively carry out its mission. In addition to planning for the future we have to look at how we can continue to strengthen our relationship with the Lord Jesus and one another in the Church.

This next part of our planning is a most important part of our planning process. It will only work if parishioners get energized about it and have a clear sense of what we can do to serve Christ more faithfully in our community and improve in areas where we

know we weren't where we need to be.

This is a good way to engage parishioner in this process. Pastoral Council, Finance Councils and Stewardships Councils will be important in giving input to this process. Pastors can build their parish self-study committee from these councils, as most committees work best with 9-12 members.

An “engaged Parish" or “model parish” highlights eight areas: · Ecclesiology: The parish understands the role of the diocese, its clergy and the laity. · Parish life: The parish evangelizes and is committed to stewardship and fellowship. · Size and location: The parish facilities are not too big or too small and are in a good location. Church attendance is growing. · Administration and governance: Lay ministers and the parish pastoral council are involved. The parish facilities and staff are adequate. · Sacramental and spiritual life: Parishioners are prepared for the sacraments, which are readily available to them. The parish has produced religious vocations. · Liturgies: This area addresses weekend and daily Masses, Church environment, homilies and lay liturgical ministers. · Education: Opportunities for learning are lifelong: available to children and adults. The engaged parish has coordinators of youth ministry and religious education. The parish's Catholic school is supported by the parish through "human and material resources." · Social concerns: The parish is active in responding to the direct needs of its parishioners and others in the community. Parishioners know the social teachings of the Church and respond to the corporal and spiritual works of mercy.

Please keep our planning process in your prayers.