The
January 2014 Official Newspaper of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Winona, MN
COURIER
Feast of the Epiphany January 6
www.dowcourier.org
Beginning the Year of Thanksgiving Bishop Quinn announced a Year of Thanksgiving to recognize the blessings from the Year of Faith and commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the Diocese of Winona.
The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona is the home parish of the diocesan bishop.
St. Mary's College, main building, photo taken 1916. St. Mary's (now St Mary's University) is the only Catholic University in the diocese.
These are just two of the many beautiful Churches & school buildings that enlivened the faith of the diocese for 125 years.
It was December 27, 1889 when Archbishop John Ireland laid his hands on Father Joseph B. Cotter, ordaining him bishop. He was to be assigned as the first bishop of the newly formed Diocese of Winona. 125 years later, we look back and rejoice at the history and goodness that has come from the Diocese of Winona. We remember that the Sisters of Saint Francis of the Congregation of our Lady of Lourdes also heeded the call to the Diocese of Winona. Mother Alfred Moes moved the Franciscan sisters from Owatonna to Rochester and, after the deadly twister in 1882, Mother Alfred called for a hospital in Rochester and offered to build and staff it. She enlisted physicians William and Charles Mayo to take charge of the diagnostic and surgical needs. The Doctors Mayo and the Sisters of St. Francis opened the doors of the famous Mayo Clinic on September 30, 1889. Also, we recall that the Brothers of Christian Schools were invited to open the diocese's first high school, Cotter High School in Winona, named after the first bishop of the diocese. The school was dedicated on Thanksgiving Day in 1911 and two years later, September of 1913, Bishop Heffron established St Mary's College (now Saint Mary's University). In 1933 the Christian Brothers took charge of the administration and staffing of the college.
Between 1933 and 1948, Saint Mary's College provided training for future priests, brothers, and laymen. In 1948, Bishop Leo Binz engaged the people of the diocese to build Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary on the campus of St. Mary's College. The seminary was completed in 1951. Catholic leaders molded the foundation of Catholic education and formation for generations to come. Did you know that 125 years ago, in the first days of Bishop Cotter's term (1889), there were 45 diocesan priests, 4 religious, 109 parishes/missions, and 19 parish schools. By 1909 when Bishop Cotter died, there were 85 diocesan priests and 7 religious, 124 parishes/missions and 28 parish schools. Today, there are 114 parishes/missions, 111 priests, 365 sisters, 21 brothers, 21 deacons, over 180 professional lay ministers, and 131,280 Catholics. There are 29 Catholic Schools and a Catholic university for women and men, St. Mary’s University. The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart in Winona (built 1952; renovated 2008) is the home parish of the diocesan bishop and houses the bishop's chair called the "cathedra." Bishop Bernard Harrington was installed in the "cathedra" as 125 Years, cont'd on pg. 16
INSIDE this issue
Immigration & the Next America read more on page 14
Sharing his birthday with the homeless
page 10
Hearts for Service Catholic Schools, page 8
Photo Spotlight
The Gift of Seeing Life
The Courier Insider
2
Articles of Interest
Who is Man?
page 4
Approaching $25 Million “Challenge Goal”
page 5
Then They Came Down the Mountain
page 6
Thankful for a Great Year
page 7
Putting Our Faith Into Action
page 8
Baptism, the Church's Most Beautiful Gift
page 9
Pope Francis' Birthday with the homeless
page 10
St. John's Harold Gentling Knights of Columbus Council 1013, Rochester, coordinated the raising of funds for a new ultrasound machine for the Total Life Care Center (TLCC) in Hastings, MN. TLCC is a life-affirming, non-profit ministry established to serve individuals and families in crises.
Works of Mercy
page 11
ones.
page 12
The Ultrasound Initiative is a nationwide Knights of Columbus program where the national K of C Office matches funds up to half the cost of a new ultrasound machine (the other half is raised through local Council efforts and private donations), which ultimately is donated to a local family/pregnancy center.
Fervent souls shall rise to great perfection
page 13
Immigration & the Next America
page 14
Keeping Our Promise to Protect
Pope Francis Watch Pope Francis was named Time Magazine's Person of the Year for the year 2013. In a statement issued on the afternoon of Wednesday December 11, Vatican spokesman Fr. Lombardi said this was "unsurprising, considering the resonance and very widespread attention given to the election of Pope Francis and the beginning of his pontificate." However, he stressed that the Pope "does not seek fame and success, since he carries out his service for the proclamation of the Gospel and the love of God for all. If this attracts men and women and gives them hope, the Pope is content. If this nomination as "Person of the Year" means that many have understood this message, at least implicitly, he will certainly be glad." Pope Francis is the third pope to receive this title. Pope John XXIII was named Time Magazine's Man of the Year in 1963 and Pope John Paul II in 1994. It interesting to note, however, that both Blessed John Paul II and Blessed John XXIII will be canonized together on April 27.
Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of his faithful
Special Insert
Bishop's Calendar January 4-9, Saturday-Thursday Region VIII Bishops’ Retreat at Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center, Sierra Madre, CA January 12, Sunday 9 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist, St. Casimir Church, Winona January 14, Tuesday 11 a.m. – Capital Campaign Final Report by Steier Group to Clergy Committee, Diocesan Pastoral Center, Winona
Time Magazine named Pope Francis Person of the Year.
January 15, Wednesday 12 p.m. – DOW Finance Council Meeting, Diocesan Pastoral Ctr, Winona
2:30 p.m. – DOW Deposit and Loan Board Meeting, Diocesan Pastoral Center, Winona January 16, Thursday 10:30 a.m. – DOW Pension Board Meeting, Diocesan Pastoral Center, Winona 7 p.m. – DOW Review Board Meeting, Resurrection Church, Rochester January 17, Friday 4:30 p.m. – Employee Recognition Dinner, St. Mary’s University, President’s Room January 18, Saturday 5 p.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist,
Child Abuse Policy Information
The Courier is the Official Publication of the Diocese of Winona 55 West Sanborn, P.O. Box 949, Winona, MN 55987 Vol 105 - 01
Most Reverend John M. Quinn, Publisher Joel Hennessy, Editor Theresa Martin, Associate Editor 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. (ISSN 0744-5490) Publishing Schedule: Monthly - Deadline for advertising & articles is the 15th of the month prior. (ISSN 0744-5490)
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.
Grow in Faith & Look Forward in Hope
Rejoice in Hope Bishop John M. Quinn 2014 and much lies ahead on the journey. In particular in this Year of Thanksgiving, we, like the Magi, follow the star, who is Jesus Christ, who will lead us through the coming months, no matter the challenges, the joys or the sorrows. As Pope
Benedict XVI once said, “The Magi set out because of a deep desire which prompted them to leave everything and begin a journey.” “It was as though they had always been waiting for that star.” Sexual Abuse of Children and Youth In mid-December, the Diocese of Winona released the names of thirteen priests, who had credible accusations (see definition of statement in special section) brought against them, concerning the sexual abuse of minors. This was a very difficult day, and it was very sad for everyone concerned. I offer my sincere apology for the detestable crimes of sexual abuse of children and youth by clergy. To all the victims, I am truly sorry. In order to prevent this type of abuse ever occurring in the future, the Diocese of Winona is fully committed to providing the safest environment possible in our parishes and schools for children, youth and the vulnerable. This commitment has been ongoing and strengthening each year for well over a decade since the “Charter for Protection of Children and Young Adults” was fully adopted in 2002. I am happy to report, that about 5,000 priests, deacons, religious, lay employees, seminarians and volunteers have completed the VIRTUS Program for a safe environment last year alone. All staff and vol-
Officials
The Most Rev. John M. Quinn, Bishop of the Diocese of Winona, announces the following:
Appointments: Very Rev. Steven J. Peterson, appointed as a consultant to the Priest Pension Board for a term of three years, effective December 8, 2013. Rev. Andrew J. Beerman, appointed as the Chaplain for Together Encounter Christ in the Diocese of Winona, effective December 5, 2013. Rev. Thomas Loomis, appointed as a Rural Life Co-Director for the Diocese of Winona, effective December 16, 2013. Rev. Thomas J. Jennings, appointed as a Rural Life Co-Director for the Diocese of Winona, effective December 16, 2013. Deacon Robert Yerhot, appointed as Assistant Director of Deacon Personnel for the Permanent Diaconate Program in the Diocese of Winona, effective December 11, 2013. Ms. Olivia Ordaz, appointed to the Board of Directors of Catholic Charities for a term of three years, effective December 16, 2013. Ms. Jill Wagner, appointed to the Board of Directors of Catholic Charities for a term of three years, effective December 16, 2013.
unteers must be updated annually. We can always do better, and together, we will do better. I invite you to join with me in praying for healing for all the victims of sexual abuse. If you have been harmed, report the claim to the appropriate law enforcement agency or access further information at www.dow.org. Jesus Christ is with His Church, and out of all this suffering, He will bring healing and hope to His people, and most of all to all the victims of sexual abuse by clergy. Immigration The Catholic Church also commemorates January 5 as Immigration Sunday. As we hear the Gospel passage of the Magi traveling from foreign lands, let us also reflect upon the plight of Joseph and Mary, who fled to Egypt with Jesus. Let us also remember those who have fled their native lands and come to us looking for sanctuary, economic opportunity, religious liberty or other blessings which we take for granted. Immigration Sunday is about welcoming strangers and to recognize them as children of God. During the past few months, we’ve opened our hearts and minds to the coming of the Lord, now we should do the same for those who are in need. We must continue to work more effectively for just solutions to our broken immigration system.
Vocations In the United States, we celebrate National Vocation Awareness Week, January 13-19. The purpose is to promote vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and consecrated life through prayer and education. I am grateful for the many individuals and dedicated organizations that focus on praying for vocations. I am most grateful when I hear of parents encouraging their children to consider ordination and religious life, just as freely as they would any other calling from the Lord. We’re all able to be vocations directors simply by speaking to our young people and helping them recognize a vocation to the priesthood, diaconate, and religious life as a joy filled and fulfilling life pursuit and an invitation from the Lord. March for Life Every January, the March for Life takes place in our nation’s capital to call attention to the rights of unborn babies to enter into the human family. From the moment of conception, life begins and it is our responsibility to defend human life from the womb to the natural end of life when God calls a person home. I will be concelebrating the Pro Life Mass, held at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Washington DC, which is always filled to capacity with people of all ages and especially young people. I am convinced that the pro-life movement
is gaining momentum and that the younger generations are solidly pro-life. I want to thank everyone, the priests, deacons, religious and dedicated lay people, who spread the Gospel of Life and offer assistance to women who are struggling with a pregnancy and need counseling, encouragement and material help to bring a new child into the world. Again this year, the seminarians, from Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, will join me, Msgr. Colletti and Msgr. Melvin for the Mass and the March for Life.
3 From the Bishop
Dear Friends in Christ, The Feast of the Epiphany brings to close the celebration of the Christmas season in all of its richness. The coming of the Magi is the coming of all the nations and cultures to adore Jesus Christ, who is the Savior of all people. I especially appreciate the faith of the Magi and their willingness to follow the star on a pilgrimage of faith to the Child, Jesus. We have begun the pilgrimage of
Celebrating 125 Years! It is with great joy that I wish you, the people of the Diocese of Winona a very happy anniversary! We will be celebrating this momentous year with many events and opportunities to learn about the past, grow in faith and look to a hopeful future. I am honored and humbled to be the eighth bishop installed in the Diocese of Winona, and I pray that there are many more to come. Let us rejoice in all the great blessings that the diocese has produced in 125 years! This is the reason I have proclaimed 2014 a Year of Thanksgiving for our diocese. Let us thank our Father for the abundance of blessings we have been given! Sincerely in Christ, Most Rev. John M. Quinn Bishop of Winona
Bishop's Calendar cont'd Sacred Heart Church, Brewster January 19, Sunday 10 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist, St. Francis Xavier Church, Windom
January 25, Saturday 5 p.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist and installation of Fr. Timothy Biren as Pastor, St. Joseph the Worker Church, Mankato
of Crucifixion School February 1, Saturday 4:30 p.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist for World Day of Sick, at St. Mary’s Hospital Chapel
January 20, Monday 9:30 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist, Ss. Peter & Paul Church, Mankato, “Together in Faith” with presentation and lunch at Fitzgerald Middle School, Mankato
January 26, Sunday 10 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist and installation of Fr. Peter Klein as Pastor, Ss. Peter and Paul Church, Blue Earth 4 p.m. – Prayer Service for Life, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona
January 21-23, Tues-Thurs March for Life, Washington, DC
January 30, Thursday 10 a.m. – Holy Hour
February 3-6, Sun-Thurs Catholic Leadership Institute, Good Shepherds-Good Leaders, Orlando, FL
January 24, Friday 11 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist for Priest Retreat, Alverna Ctr., Winona
January 31, Friday 11 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist, Crucifixion Church, La Crescent followed by lunch with students
February 10, Monday 4 p.m. – Board of Directors Meeting, Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Detroit
February 2, Sunday 11 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist, World Day for Consecrated Life, Assisi Heights, Rochester, followed by lunch
Life, Marriage & Family
4
Who is Man?
“There are not one hundred people in the United States who hate The Catholic Church, but there are millions who hate what they wrongly perceive the Catholic Church to be.”
One of the particular difficulties in explaining the Catholic Church’s teaching is that our message is so foreign to the average TV-watching individual. Grounded in much of what the Catholic Church teaches is the philosophy of the human person. Who is man? Philosophy gets a bad rap for being “worthless” in this world of technology (cf., Lumen Fidei, 25), but if ideas truly have consequences, then perhaps we should spend some time thinking about some of the ideas that the world has been feeding us and our young people. Archbishop William Lori, Archbishop of Baltimore, during a talk he gave on Marriage and Religious Liberty, does just that (and he gives an amazing summary of who man is): “Growing up, we were taught at home and at school to respect our bodies not just because they are ingenious compilations of cells which, when combined properly and functioning normally, can do wonderful things. We were taught that the body is a part of our personhood. Respect for one’s body was part of respect for one’s person. The body was an integral part of one’s personhood - Venerable Fulton Sheen with in-built meaning and dignity. Now the body is regarded less as an integral part of one’s personhood and more as the instrument of one’s will. What’s more, nowadays the relationship between will and intellect is sometimes understood differently than was previously the case. If, before, reason was thought to guide the will in choosing the good, today, reason is seen more as the servant of the will, guiding the will to find ways to obtain and enjoy what it wants. The interior of the person is seen less as a spiritual core of contemplation and virtue and more as a bundle of wants, needs, and desires… If the intellect is the servant of the will, the body is the instrument of the will, the means by which the will’s desires are fulfilled. The body’s value lies in its instrumentality. To be sure, in this view of things, the body should be taken care of as if it were a fine instrument, but only an instrument, and not a sign or symbol of anything deeper. The body is merely an instrument to be used as a person wishes, even sexually, so long as everyone consents, and is of age, and nobody gets hurt.1” The Catholic Church has so much more to offer than the world can give! Contrary to the very simplistic, worldly version of man that Archbishop Lori examines, the Church teaches: “Being in the image of God the human individual possesses the dignity of a person, who is not just something, but someone. He is capable of self-knowledge, of selfArchbishop William Lori, possession and of freely giving himself and entering into communion with other persons. And he is called by grace to Archbishop of Baltimore, a covenant with his Creator, to offer him a response of faith and love that no other creature can give in his stead.” answers this question. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 357) While we mark the 41st anniversary of Roe v. Wade, let us pray for a deeper understanding of the human person; a deeper understanding, that will directly lead to a greater respect. 1Read his complete address here: http://www.archbalt.org/about-us/the-archbishop/homilies/marriage-and-religious-freedom.cfm
Peter Martin, STL Director pmartin@dow.org
Diocese of Crookston initiates a Year of Marriage
Bishop Michael J. Hoeppner has declared the Year of Our Lord 2014 to be a Year of Marriage for the Diocese of Crookston. In his 2011 pastoral letter “Meeting Christ, Living Christ”, Bishop Hoeppner outlined their plan for the year: “During this year, through parish activities, through deanery gatherings and diocBishop Michael J. Hoeppner has declared the Year of Our Lord esan events, we will 2014 to be a Year of Marriage for the Diocese of Crookston. all join in reviewing and renewing the Church’s understanding of marriage, the Sacrament of Matrimony, and the family. From the riches of our Catholic faith, we will articulate and communicate the vision of married life and family given us by God, renewed and elevated by Jesus, and entrusted to the Church. As a culminating event, we will hold a diocesanwide ‘Marriage Congress’ to pray together and celebrate God’s plan for marriage and the family.” The Year of Marriage is part of a four-part commitment by the Diocese to renew the understanding of and commitment to God’s Plan for Marriage. The Year of Marriage helps to accomplish the first part: a renewed catechesis to help us all better understand and appreciate God’s gift of marriage. Part two is to have each parish make pastoral ministry in service of marriage and family life a priority. The third part will focus on assisting people in preparation for marriage at the local level. Finally, the fourth part is to establish an Office of Marriage and Family Life (which has been done).
As this edition of the Courier goes to print, the Rooted in Faith, Rejoice in Hope campaign is knocking on the door of $25 million in pledges and gifts. After years of preparation and thousands of hours of dedicated work from volunteers, pastors, administrators and support staff, the campaign is about to surpass its Challenge Goal. What does this mean for all of us? Challenge Goal - $25 million – How is this money being invested? With $25 million in pledges, the Rooted in Faith campaign has already funded the 2013 Annual Diocesan Appeal (ADA) and budgeted for all past and future campaign
Joel Hennessy Director jhennessy@dow.org
expenses. From here on out, every dollar raised will be used to continue strengthening our Priest Pension Fund, making muchneeded improvements at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary (IHMS), and paying for parish projects. Once the campaign hits the $25 million Challenge Goal, and
as funds are received, they will be responsibly invested to address these important goals. For a more thorough explanation of how the funds will be invested, please visit our campaign website at http://dow. steiergroup.net Thank You!! Seven short months ago, we announced that the Rooted in Faith campaign had surpassed $3 million in pledges. It is amazing to see that we now stand on the verge of surpassing our $25 million Challenge Goal. “Thank you to the thousands of families across southern Minnesota who united in solidarity to pledge their support to these worthy goals,” said Bishop Quinn. “The Catholic Church is stronger because of your investment.” The Diocese of Winona Foundation wants to thank you everyone who made 2013 such a great year. Bishop Quinn agrees, “There have been challenges along the way, but to accomplish so much is a true testament to our great Catholics. We are hopeful that the positive results and support continue in 2014 and beyond as we continue on this journey.”
5 Mission Advancement
Rooted In Faith, Rejoice In Hope Approaching $25 Million “Challenge Goal”
Committed to Protecting Your Investment in Rooted in Faith, Rejoice in Hope. We recognize that donors occasionally fear that their investment might not always be used for the purposes they had had in mind when they pledged support. In recent months, and in response to developments discussed in this edition of the Courier, parishioners have asked questions such as “How will I know my gift will go to the campaign goals?” and “Will my donation be used to pay for legal fees, settlements, or other non-campaign related expenses?” The Diocese of Winona Foundation is in charge of stewarding all gifts made to the Foundation and strictly abiding by the intentions of the donor. The Diocese of Winona Foundation is an independent corporation with a separate Board of Directors, comprised of lay persons and clergy. The Foundation is a separate entity from the Diocese of Winona. All donors should be assured that the Diocese of Winona Foundation will provide strict oversight to ensure that your gift will be allocated ONLY to the specific goals outlined in the campaign case statement, i.e. priest retirement, IHMS, 2013 ADA, parish projects, and campaign expenses. All gifts to the campaign will be used solely for the restricted purposes of the campaign and for no other purposes. The Diocese of Winona Foundation intends to honor donor intent, and has been established to do just that.
Vocations
6
"Then They Came Down the Mountain" we might hear from the Father, Do not Just when I thought I had answered all of be afraid! He always calls us to the truth their questions, one of the participants at this of who we are which may require change summer’s Camp Summit asked: How do you keep in our lives. And how good is it that we away from mountain top experiences? It was a are led to change, to conversion, by Jesus question I had never heard before and realized himself? When we are on the mountain, that he was concerned about the effects of those it seems as if nothing is impossible and we experiences in which we feel very close to God. desire conversion so that we can love God Many of us have felt the results of God’s intimacy: as he loves us. When we are on the moungreat joy, perhaps even giddiness, in realizing how tain, we feel safe, we feel at home. much God loves us and desires to be close to us. But then we, like the disciples, come The mountain-top-experience is one in which it down the mountain. I have had the opporseems as if nothing could go wrong because we tunity to attend several conferences and have had a glimpse into God’s goodness. We retreats recently, and it’s always inspiring experience this deep spiritual connection with to see how the Holy Spirit works in the God as a personal encounter with the Father, lives of young people. At nearly every Son, or Holy Spirit in many different contexts. It event we talk about coming down the can happen at a retreat, a conference, a major mountain to the ordinariness of our daily moment in the life of family, at Mass. Perhaps lives. Homework, chores and jobs still need you experienced this nearness to God during the to be done. Parents and siblings remain Christmas season. No matter when or where parents and siblings. How is it possible to we have this “spiritual high,” it seems inevitable stay with Jesus when the expectations of that we have to come down from the mountain. life continue or when I realize that I’m not Sometimes it feels as though we come crashing The Transfiguration by Carl Bloch. as spiritually invincible as I thought? Well, down. I just said it: Stay with Jesus. We all experiIn Matthew, Mark and Luke, we hear about the ence extraordinary events that change us, Transfiguration of the Lord. After Jesus appears in his glory, the apostles come down the mountain and Jesus asks that they not tell but it is in the ordinary events of our lives that we live out the change we have anyone about what they had seen. become. Jesus continues to support us in our prayer (both personal and in comThey seem confused yet are com- munity), by reading the Scriptures and attending Mass. Jesus wants to remain a pliant with this request. Peter’s part of our lives. When the disciples came down the mountain it was not the end, confusion began on the mountain but the beginning. After the Transfiguration, Jesus turns to Jerusalem, to his cross Rev. Will Thompson when he wants to build three tents and our redemption. When we come down the mountain, we continue to turn Director for Jesus, Moses and Elijah. Seeing toward Jesus. We may deny him and sin, but he only encourages us to turn back wthompson@dow.org Jesus in his glory can be confusing. to him again and follow as his disciples. If you have discovered Jesus in his glory and feel like you are floundering, It can be inspiring. It can be scary. Whatever it is, Jesus changes us. you’re not alone. There are many others who want to grow in relationship with At this year’s national conference Jesus and to respond to his challenge of following him with our very lives. He gave for vocation directors, Cardinal DiNardo reflected on the Transfiguration by us the Church so that we can have the support we need to love our brothers and saying that Jesus did not change in the Transfiguration, it was the apostles sisters in the way he invites. who were changed. Jesus simply showed himself as he is. When the apostles were on the mountain they heard the Father say “This is my Son, my beloved, in whom Choose Catholic United Financial in 2014 and see how you gain through generosity. I am well pleased. Listen to him.” When we are on Our products and services are designed to help increase the size of your donation, and the the mountaintop, we too hear the voice of the Father. amount left behind for loved ones. Sometimes this voice calls us to a particular vocation; it always invites us to holiness and relationship. Whatever
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Resolutions The Holidays are behind us and the New Year is just starting. New Year’s resolutions were made usually with your health in mind; how about your spiritual health? Have you considered rediscovering your spiritual life? We live in a fast paced world. Our children’s lives and our lives go so fast, that we leave behind our soul. God wants to be a part of us. All we have to do is step back from our fast-paced life and talk to the Lord and listen to what he has to say. He waits for all of us patiently. Knowing the Lord helps us to meet our everyday lives in a peaceful way. Giving over our problems to the Lord makes our lives less fast-paced. So we all need to refresh our spiritual health. The Winona Diocesan Council of Catholic Women is a starting place for women to refresh their spirituality, along with others who are faith filled. We are having a meeting on Saturday, January 11th at St. Finbarr in Grand Meadow. We invite all women to come and take part in our day. It starts at 9 am. We have speakers in the morning and afternoon along with mass and lunch. You will go home after the day renewed in faith and God’s love. “If people love me, they will obey my teaching. My father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.” John 14:23 God wants to be your dwelling place. He has no interest in being a weekend getaway or a Sunday bungalow. He wants you under his roof now and always. For many this is a new thought. We think of God as a deity to discuss, not a place to dwell. But our Father wants to be the one in whom “we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28 NIV). by: Cindy Meling, WDCCW President
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Thankful for a Great Year
Ben Frost Director bfrost@dow.org
readers some of the exciting news and events to expect in the coming months. March for Life: To begin, in January our Diocese is sending three bus loads of youth and young adults to Washington DC for the annual March for Life event. This is the third year we have participated in the National March. We have tripled our numbers and the excitement about the pro-life cause continues to grow. If you are a parent and want your child to have a life changing experience, this trip is one to consider. InterMission: Youth rallies are another great opportunity for teens to encounter the love of Christ. We are blessed in our Diocese to
work with the Partnership for Youth organization which provides the InterMission youth rallies in Rochester and Adrian MN. These short events are packed with great music, fellowship, and, most importantly, an encounter with our Lord through the Eucharist. The InterMission rallies also are a stepping stone into or Steubenville North event in Rochester. Young people are able to experience at the rallies a similar atmosphere and see what Steubenville is all about. I invite our readers to check our the InterMission ads located on this page. Steubenville: Last year our Diocesan parishes sent 275 participants to the Steubenville North Rochester Conference! Our youth ministers and priests did a fantastic job getting groups together for the event. Our delegation joined 1700 teens from around the country. It is a joy to see the young Church alive! If you had a young person from your parish attend the event, I invite you to ask them about it. Our Steubenville promotional materials for this summer will be available shortly. Please consider joining us! Totus Tuus: Our Totus Tuus teams will be back for the summer of 2014! If you’ve joined us in the past, you know that Totus Tuus is a program that is very effective! Teams of young adults will travel around the diocese and serve our parishes through events that both form with Catechesis and celebrate the joys of faith. We invite you to join us for another great summer! TEC [Together Encounter Christ]: After
Diocesan Masses of Reparation for sins
Many parishes throughout the diocese committed to offer consolation to the Heart of Christ through a Mass of Reparation.
Wednesday, January 1 9 a.m. St. Mary, Worthington 9 a.m. Holy Trinity, Rollingstone 9 a.m. St. Anthony, Altura Thursday, January 2 9 a.m. St. Catherine, Luverne 9 a.m. St. Vincent de Paul, West Concord Friday, January 3 8:15 a.m. St. John the Baptist, Mankato 8:30 a.m. St Terese, Mapleton Saturday, January 4 7:30 a.m. St. Augustine, Austin Sunday, January 5 8 a.m. St. James, St. James Monday, January 6 12:10 p.m. St John the Evangelist, Rochester 8:30 a.m. St Terese, Mapleton Tuesday, January 7 8:30 a.m. St. Anthony, Lismore 8:30 a.m. Sacred Heart, Adams 9 a.m. Christ the King, Byron Wednesday, January 8 6 p.m. St. Killian, St. Killian 8:30 a.m. St. Mary, Madelia Thursday, January 9 8:30 a.m. St. Mary Caledonia 3:15 p.m. – Colonial Manor, Lakefield 10:30 a.m. – Ridgeview Est., Pipestone 2 p.m. – Good Samaritan HC, Albert Lea
8:30 a.m. St. Adrian, Adrian 8 a.m. – St. Felix, Wabasha Friday, January 10 IMHS – Holy Trinity, Rollingstone Saturday, January 11 IMHS – Sacred Heart, Owatonna Sunday, January 12 8 a.m. St. Matthew, Vernon Ctr 11 a.m. St. Theodore, Albert Lea Monday, January 13 8:30 a.m. Good Shepherd, Jackson 10 a.m. St. Casimir, Wells Tuesday, January 14 9 a.m. St. John Baptist de La Salle, Dodge Center 8 a.m. St. Ann, Janesville Wednesday, January 15 8:30 a.m. St. Francis Xavier, Windom Thursday, January 16 8:30 a.m. St. Luke, Sherburn Friday, January 17 8:30 a.m. Our Lady of Good Counsel, Wilmont 8:30 a.m. St Mary, Winnebago Saturday, January 18 IMHS Pax Christi, Rochester Sunday, January 19 INDIA St Joseph, Rushford Monday, January 20 IMHS St. Patrick, Lanesboro Tuesday, January 21
7:15 a.m. St. Francis of Assisi, Rochester Wednesday, January 22 8:30 a.m. St. Gabriel, Fulda 9 a.m. St. Francis de Sales, Claremont 10 a.m. St. Charles Asst. Living, St. Charles Thursday, January 23 IMHS Pax Christi, Rochester 8:30 a.m. St. Teresa, Mapleton 7:30 a.m. St. Theodore, Albert Lea Friday, January 24 8 a.m. St. Joseph, Owatonna 8:30 a.m. Resurrection, Rochester Saturday, January 25 IMHS Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona Sunday, January 26 8 a.m. St. James, St.James 6 p.m. Holy Spirit, Rochester Monday, January 27 7 a.m. St. Peter &Paul, Mankato Tuesday, January 28 8:30 a.m. St. Joseph, Good Thunder Wednesday, January 29 9 a.m. Holy Family, Kasson IMHS St Joachim, Plainview Thursday, January 30 IMHS St. Agnes, Kellogg Friday, January 31 12:05 p.m. St. Joseph the Worker, Mankato
a short break which allowed for a time of reflection and planning, I am happy to announce that our Diocese will begin to offer our Pathways TEC retreats again. TEC is a fantastic retreat experience based on the Pascal Mystery. The three days together are encouraging, formative and an opportunity to meet friends that will last a lifetime. We are planning to have our next TEC in February, so please visit our website for more information! www.pathwaystec.org Camp Summit: Last year marked our first ever Jr. High Summer Camp called “Camp Summit.” It was an absolutely blessed experience! Jr. High students gathered for four days of adventure, friendship, Sacraments, and faith. We also had a group of high school students who served as mentors and prayer partners throughout the week. Camp Summit exceeded our expectations, and we will be bigger and better for the 2014 summer! All students of 6th-8th grades should consider this life changing experience. Young Adults: I also want to take a moment to thank those who are working to build up our young adults in the Diocese. We have excellent laborers in the vineyard helping with campus ministry, discipleship and young adult events. Please join me in praying for our Newman Centers, Catholic Campus Ministry programs and young adult parish programs. We will be highlighting these ministries in future editions to come. Yes, we have much to be thankful for last year and much to come in 2014. Please keep our young people in your prayers. May God bless us throughout 2014!
7 Youth & Young Adults
The arrival of a new year is upon us and as we journey into 2014 we have much to be thankful for from this past year, and much to anticipate in the year to come. Our previous year was one filled with many joys and blessings. We journeyed together through our Year of Faith and it truly was an enriching process! I clearly witnessed our young people growing in faith. From dynamic youth programs throughout our diocese, to energetic retreats like NCYC and Camp Summit, we certainly are riding a wave of hope into the year to come. I want to take a moment to share with our
Catholic Schools
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Putting our Faith into Action at Rochester Catholic Schools Gratitude is more than saying a prayer of thanksgiving to God – it means we realize that everything we have is a gift from God and that without Him, we have nothing. Students at Rochester Catholic Schools learn the importance of being grateful by participating in acts of charity and service to others. Service learning provides students with an opportunity to understand how a lifestyle of faithful service is the result of God working through us, embracing the mission of Jesus Christ. The fruits of service encourage a deeper sense of compassion and understanding of others. Marsha Stenzel Superintendent mstenzel@dow.org
St. John the Evangelist/ St. Pius X School
(As seen to the right) Cupcake for a Cause is a group of 6th graders from St. John the Evangelizt who felt the desire to bake together for the sake of others. The students stay after school once a month to bake cupcakes together and donate them to a worthy organization. In December, the students donated to the Dorothy Day Hospitality House, a temporary homeless shelter in downtown Rochester.
Lourdes High School
St. John the Evangelist 6th graders participate in Cupcake for a Cause.
St. Francis of Assisi School
The Lourdes community was involved in the Adopt-A-Family program St. Francis of Assisi School partnered with St. Francis of Assisi and Resurrection parishes this past December, a yearly initiative organized by Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota. Each homeroom class adopted one of the 31 for their annual Thanksgiving Food Drive. Students brought non-perishable food items to school families/ individuals with specific needs that were listed for purchase. Every through the month of November. The St. Francis of Assisi School student participated in one of the following ways: donated $4- $10 or more, 8th grade class walked their annupurchased a specific gift item, wrapped gifts, or made a class greeting card. al Cub Foods Thanksgiving Food Gifts were delivered to families on December 11, 2013. Walk, in support of the food drive. A student’s perspective: Practicing good wellness strategies, “Adopt-A-Family is unique because it assigns one individual to a group the team of 8th graders made the of people, or in my case, a classroom. While many organizations collect trek to Cub Foods following the 11th money for a common cause, Adopt-A-Family focuses on the needs of each Avenue South sidewalk. Students person in a family. Not only do volunteers strive to meet the needs, but the developed a budget and then purgiven list of hobbies and interests ensures that people can give a personal chased non-perishable food items gift and really make their Christmas experience memorable. with money they earned themselves. This year I gave a presentation to my school about the organization and After the groceries were chosen and how Lourdes High School would participate. Our Lourdes community was bought, the students donated the food able to donate gifts to 29 different individuals, when it is very possible that to both the St. Francis of Assisi and these families would not have received Christmas gifts in any other way. Resurrection churches’ Thanksgiving Serving others is extremely important, especially for students. Adopt-AFood Drive. Both parishes donated Family has shown me how lucky I am and has helped me to be thankful for St. Francis of Assisi 8th graders participated in the the food to families in need of meals everything I have, whether it is family or a meal on the table.” – Georgianne Thanksgiving Cub Foods Service Trip. on Thanksgiving. Younger, LHS Senior
Holy Spirit School
Left to right: Georgianne Younger, LHS Senior; Ellen Gorman, LHS Freshman; Meghan Patel, LHS Sophomore; Natasha Spinler, LHS Freshman; Ben Utz, LHS Junior; Anthony Becker, LHS Junior
The second graders at Holy Spirit School chose Catholic Charities Refugee Resettlement for their 2013 Advent service project. Mary Alessio, Catholic Charities personnel in charge of resettling refugees in the Rochester area, shared information with students about the newcomers who traveled from Bhuta because they were not safe in their home country. Students were assigned to do extra chores around the house to earn money to purchase a new pillow to be given to the newcomers as a welcoming gift. The second graders wrote welcome notes to include with each pillow, letting the recipients know they have come to the safety of our Rochester community. We truly see Christ in our neighbors in need by participating in this opportunity.
Holy Spirit 2nd graders wrote welcome notes to the refugees from Bhuta.
We are Committed to this Mission In mid-December, the Diocese of Winona released a list of thirteen priest names associated with the John Jay Study commissioned by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in 2002 as well as one additional name representing a recent claim. See the last page of this special section for more information about the study and list. This was a very difficult day, and it was very sad for everyone concerned. Over the past few decades, a number of clergy members in the Diocese of Winona sadly have been accused of violating the sacred trust placed in them by children, youth and their families and were accused of detestable crimes of sexual abuse. This has caused insufferable harm to victims, their families, parishioners and the Church. For this I am truly sorry. The Diocese of Winona has fully adopted the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People (“the Charter”), as promulgated by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishop, and is committed to combating the problems of sexual abuse, protecting the young and vulnerable, caring for the victims of abuse, and restoring trust and hope. We are committed to a process of transparency about sexual abuse by clergy and the disclosure of names of those with substantiated claims so that this will never occur again. The Diocese of Winona works vigorously and has taken extraordinary measures to ensure that all of the schools, parishes and programs administered in the Diocese adhere to the Charter so that those entrusted to our care are safe. Nearly 5,000 priests, deacons, lay employees, volunteers and seminarians complete the Virtus Safe Environment Program annually. This ongoing program strengthens the stringent policies and procedures that have been in place for over a decade now. Everyone is invited to examine these resources on our website www.dow.org and share with us ideas and ways that we can further strengthen our programs. If you have been harmed or know someone who has been harmed, the information needed to report the claim can be found on the site. It is a difficult time for the Church in the Diocese of Winona. It is also a time of hope which presents an opportunity to heal and continue moving forward. Today, our parishes are vibrant and safer than ever before. Our priests, deacons, religious, volunteers, lay leaders and parishioners are of one heart. A heart fully committed to reflecting the love of Jesus Christ through everything we do in worship, faith formation, education and service. Sincerely Yours in Christ,
John M. Quinn Bishop of Winona
Our Safe Environment Program The mission of the Diocese of Winona's "Safe Environment Program" is to ensure the safety of children and young people who have been entrusted to our care in our parishes, schools, religious education classes, and other programs. We pursue this mission in three ways: 1. By thoroughly screening and supervising all members of the clergy (priests and deacons), as well as all employees and volunteers who work with children and young people as part of their ministry. Over 30,000 background checks have been run on clergy, employees and volunteers since 2002. 2. By providing appropriate training in recognizing and reporting child abuse to appropriate civil and Church authorities. All adults who work with minors must attend a VIRTUS® session. Over 600 sessions have taken place in the Diocese with over 8,000 attendees recorded since we began with VIRTUS just over 2 years ago. (Before using VIRTUS® an online training was required.) All children in the diocesan educational programs are required to participate in the “Circle of Grace Program”. Circle of Grace programs are educational programs that teach children how to protect themselves from being sexually abused. Age appropriate programs have been implemented throughout the diocese. Circle of Grace is a safe environment program developed by the Archdiocese of Omaha. 3. By holding all members of the clergy, employees and volunteers who work with children and young people to Christ-centered and professional codes of conduct. Our volunteer code of conduct and Employee/ Clergy code of conduct can both be found on our website at www.dow.org
a Prayer fOr Healing VictimS Of abuSe
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So There is NO Dou
A Plan To Protect God's Children®
The Protecting God’s Children program is required for all adults who are in a staff or volunteer assignment where the potential exists for contact with children or youth. The Protecting God’s Children Program begins with making adults more aware of the ways children and adults interact with each other. The Protecting God's Children program educates and trains adults (clergy, religious, teachers, staff, volunteers, and parents) about the dangers of abuse, the warning signs of abuse, the ways to prevent abuse, the methods of properly reporting suspicions of abuse, and responding to allegations of abuse. Below are the five steps taught in the VIRTUS® Protecting God’s Children program:
Step 1: Know the Warning Signs
Step 2: Control Access Catholic Church‘s
The Solution to End Clergy Sexual Abuse
Knowing the warning signs means that we can recognize the early signs of an inappropriate relationship with a child. If we know the warning signs, then we can identify potential abuse before it happens. If we know the warning signs, we do not have to rely on a child to report an incident. • • • • • • • • • •
Discourages other adults from participating or monitoring. Always wants to be alone with children. More excited to be with children than adults. Gives gifts to children, often without permission. Goes overboard touching. Always wants to wrestle or tickle. Thinks the rules do not apply to them. Allows children to engage in activities their parents would not allow. Uses bad language or tells dirty jokes to children. Shows children pornography
Controlling access means that we are careful about whom we allow to work with our children. It also sends a message to potential child molesters that we are alert about child sexual abuse. • Communicate the church’s commitment to keeping children safe. • Use written, standard applications. • Require criminal background checks. • Complete face-to-face interviews. • Check references. • Make sure computers with Internet access are located in open areas.
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Step 3: Monitor all Programs Child molesters look for ways to spend time alone with children. If they know someone is watching, they have more trouble finding opportunities to abuse without getting caught. • Identify secluded areas, lock empty rooms. • Develop policies regarding use of secluded areas. For example, staff should check bathrooms before sending children in alone. • Do not permit children to enter staff-only areas. • Only meet with children where other adults can pass by. • Supervisors should look in on activities and monitor computer usage. • Make sure enough adults are involved in programs. • Allow parents to drop in on programs. • Do not start new programs without approval from the pastoral council, the pastor, and/or the children’s ministry committee.
Step 4: Be Aware Being aware means that parents should know what is going on in the lives of their own children and pay attention to subtle signs of a problem. Parents should talk to their children, listen to them, and observe them. When we observe and communicate with our children, we are more likely to detect the signs if they are in danger. We can notice a sudden change in behavior, if they get moody or aggressive, lose interest in school, or stop taking care of their personal hygiene. • Talk to your children. • Listen to your children. • Observe your children and their online activity. • Let your children know they can tell you anything. • Teach your children where their private parts are. • Talk to your children often about protecting themselves online. • Teach your children what to do if someone tries to touch them. • Teach your children what to do if someone makes them uncomfortable.
Sexual Abuse of Children: Ten Years of Hard-Earned Knowledge
Step 5: Communicate Your Concerns Communicating concerns means telling someone when you are uncomfortable with a situation or if you suspect abuse. It means paying attention to your own feelings and not waiting until it is too late. Only by communicating concerns can we use our knowledge to protect children. Even if abuse is not occurring, it is still important to let others know when you have concerns. • • • • •
Talk to the person involved, and/or Speak to their supervisor, and/or Notify a church official, and/or Call the child abuse hotline, and/or Call the police.
By Bernard Nojadera With 2012, the Catholic Church looks back on a decade of learning about a problem which may be decades of centuries old: the sexual abuse of minors by those who would mentor them. The crisis in the Church in the United States reached a head in 2002, when newspaper coverage nationwide highlighted the existence of this horrific crime and moral travesty... In the United States, the Catholic Church adopted a plan to address the issue, called the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. It has spent billions of dollars on settlements, and education and background checks to do all it can to prevent the abuse of children in its care. We have come to some understanding of how to address the problem, gaining knowledge that can benefit more than the Catholic Church. Some of what we’ve learned: • The guiding principle when confronting child sexual abuse is to remember that it is most of all about the person who was abused. It is not about the offender, the institution, or anyone’s reputation. It is about helping a child. • People can learn. In the ten years since establishment of the Charter we have moved from disbelief to action. We have learned that what once seemed unbelievable, is, unfortunately, credible and must be faced. Training, reference checks, and background evaluations are a normal part of parish life to keep children safe. We recommend these steps for all who deal with youth. • Sexual abuse of a minor is a sickness that can be contained through vigilance but will not disappear. Incidents of sexual abuse are still occurring in the one place that ought to be the safest place. We cannot let our guard down. The work is not finished. • Critical situations impel people and institutions to change. We have seen the culture of our parishes and schools evolve. People now accept that child sexual abuse exists and are willing to help stop it from occurring. They no longer assume someone else will take care of it. • Child sexual abuse is a reality society must confront. No institution is immune from it. Learning to respond to the victim of abuse is the first job of any institution, community or family. • The court of public opinion holds institutional leaders to a high standard. Leaders who forgo an immediate and appropriate response to abuse of a child do so at their own peril. There is hardly any other issue which evokes such intolerance as not acting in the face of child sexual abuse. • Parents are willing to step up and make sure parishes and schools are following policies and procedures to protect children. With this critical issue, few people reply “I just don’t have time to get involved.” • The task of protecting children can be shared. Clergy, employees, volunteers, parents, teachers realize that bystanders can be their allies in protecting children. • Child sexual abuse is a hard topic to discuss, but training adults to protect children has given the topic a forum where the uncomfortable reality can be discussed . • Victims of child sexual abuse can heal and live productive lives. Steps that help bring them toward healing include seriously listening to their stories and expressing profound sorrow for what they have endured. As awful as the experience has been for a person, there is hope, a gift of grace from a loving God. --Bernard Nojadera is a deacon and head of the U.S. bishops’ Secretariat for the Protection of Children and Young People.
VIRTUS® is registered trademark of National Catholic Services, LLC. (“National Catholic”) in the United States. Protecting God’s Children® and A Plan to Protect God’s Children™ are trademarks of National Catholic. National Catholic has licensed use of its Protecting God’s Children™ programs to the Diocese of Winona (“Diocese”). National Catholic owns the copyrights in the artwork and substantive text appearing in this brochure. In addition, National Catholic has authorized the Diocese to distribute the artwork and text in this brochure to employees and volunteers of the Diocese. Neither the artwork nor text may be reproduced or further distributed in any form or manner, without the prior written permission of National Catholic. Please feel free to contact National Catholic for more information about its products and services. You may contact: Pat Neal Director of the VIRTUS Programs and Services VIRTUS Programs 3114 E. 81st Street, Suite 101 Tulsa, OK 74137 888-847-8870 ©2002-2010 by National Catholic Services, LLC. All rights reserved.
A Statement Concerning the Release of the John Jay Study Priests WINONA, MN – December 16, 2013 – In 2002, the National Review Board commissioned the John Jay College of Criminal Justice to conduct a blind study to determine the nature and scope of child sexual abuse within the Roman Catholic Church in the United States. Each diocese in the United States was contacted by John Jay College and was required to report the number of priests within its diocese who had “credible” accusations of abuse. The national study required the report of any accusation that was not implausible (see definition below). This included allegations that did not necessarily result in a criminal, civil or diocesan investigation and allegations that were unsubstantiated. The national study defined an implausible allegation as one that could not possibly have happened under the given circumstances (e.g., an accusation is made to a bishop about a priest who never served at that diocese). The study went on to say that erroneous information does not necessarily make the allegation implausible (e.g., a priest arrived at the diocese a year after the alleged abuse, but all other facts of the case are credible and the alleged victim might have mistaken the date). Allegations that were determined not to be “implausible” have since been referred to as “credible” accusations. The methodology of the national study encouraged over-reporting and the study specifically directed each diocese not to engage in the endeavor of weighing the credibility of any of the accusations out of concern that the data produced by the study would arguably be invalid because of subjective determinations as to the credibility of, or substantiation of, the allegation(s). The national study concluded that approximately 4% of priests in ministry in the United States had accusations of abuse made against them. The study also found that the annual number of incidents of sexual abuse of minors by priests increased steadily to a peak in the late 1970s and early 1980s and then declined sharply after 1985. The Ramsey County District Court has ordered that the Diocese of Winona publicly release the names associated with the John Jay College Study, as well any other priests who have had accusations of child sexual abuse since 2004. In compliance with that Order, the Diocese of Winona hereby releases the following names, ages, places of ministry, ministerial status and current location of each priest associated with the John Jay Study, as well as the same information of those who have been accused of perpetrating sexual abuse against a minor since 2002.
Thirteen John Jay Study Priests Thomas P. Adamson - Permanently removed from ministry in 1984; laicized 2009. Sylvester F. Brown - Deceased 2010. Joseph C. Cashman - Permanently removed from ministry in 1992; laicization pending in Canonical Tribunal. Louis G. Cook - Deceased 2004. William D. Curtis - Deceased 2001. John R. Feiten - Deceased 2001. Richard E. Hatch - Deceased 2005. Ferdinand L. Kaiser - Deceased 1973. Jack L. Krough - Permanently removed from ministry in 2002; laicization pending in Canonical Tribunal. Michael J. Kuisle - Deceased 1971. James W. Lennon -Deceased 2000. Leland J. Smith - Permanently removed from ministry in 1994; laicization pending in Canonical Tribunal. Robert H. Taylor - Deceased 2012. Priests Accused of Abuse after 2004 Leo Charles Koppala - Administrative leave pending outcome of criminal proceedings in Faribault County, MN.*
Frequently Asked Questions Q. What should a person do if he or she recognizes a name on the list and has concerns about further risks the man may pose? A. Any concerns should be conveyed to law enforcement and the proper civil authorities. In addition, he or she is encouraged to notify Terri Wintering, the diocese’s Victim Assistance Coordinator at (507) 454-2270, ext. 255. Q. Have any of these men been permanently removed from the priesthood (laicized)? A. Nine of the thirteen priests on the list are deceased. One priest has been laicized in 2007, the other three priests are currently going through the laicization process in our tribunal. When the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” was promulgated in 2002, the decision was made to impose severe restrictions and monitor these offending priests rather than seek laicization — removal from the priesthood altogether — based on a desire by the diocese to oversee these men versus placing them outside of the Church and unsupervised as lay citizens who would have no restrictions. This was an earnest effort to be responsible. Q. What is the threshold for removing a priest from active ministry? A. If the diocese receives a credible claim of sexual abuse of a minor, a priest will be removed from active ministry. These restrictions stay in place until an investigation determines whether or not the claim is substantiated. If a claim is determined to be substantiated, he will remain restricted until any criminal or canonical proceedings are concluded. Q. Why was permission required from the court to release the names? A. There has been a protective order in place in Ramsey County District Court since 2009 related to a list of 13 priests provided by the diocese to the John Jay Commission. That list was used to compile a nationwide summary of “credible” claims of clergy abuse of minors. The court order to seal this list applied to all parties, including the archdiocese. Q. Is this the extent of the disclosure of names? Is it possible more names could be added after the review of clergy files? A. We have reported all names currently know to have allegations of sexual abuse of a minor. If the Diocese of Winona learns of additional credible claims whether from the review of the clergy files from outside experts or otherwise, the disclosures will be updated on our website. Q. How often will additional names be disclosed? A. Whenever the Diocese of Winona learns of additional credible claims of abuse of a minor by a member of the clergy, the diocese will share that information first with law enforcement and then with the public by issuing and posting a press release. Q. Have there been any reports of child sexual abuse since 2004? A. Yes. There are proceedings that are ongoing in Faribault County involving allegations of child sexual abuse by an international priest who was serving at Saints Peter and Paul parish in Blue Earth. Fr. Koppala has been suspended from active ministry pending the outcome of that trial. When the allegations were made the diocese immediately suspended Fr. Koppala and issued a press release. Bishop Quinn also went to Fr. Koppala’s parish to speak with the parishioners.
a Prayer fOr Healing VictimS Of abuSe God of endless love, ever caring, ever strong, always present, always just: You gave your only Son to save us by the blood of his cross.
*See detailed list on the diocesan website.
Complete Safe Environment program details and policies can be viewed on the diocesan website, www.dow.org, follow the link on the right side of the page titled “Keeping Our Promise to Protect”. The Disclosure Regarding Clergy Sexual Abuse of Minors can be found by following the “Victims Assistance and Advocacy” link.
Q. Can priests with substantiated claims of sexual abuse of a minor against them ever be put back into active ministry? A. No priest who has sexually abused a minor can ever return to active ministry. When an accusation of is made against a priest, the matter is thoroughly investigated by the review board of the Diocese of Winona. If the determination by the review board that the claim is substantiated, the priest is indefinitely suspended from active ministry. Ultimately though, a finaldetermination is made through a criminal or canonical process. If not enough evidence is presented to support an accusation, the priest may return to active ministry. All allegations of child sexual abuse reported to the Diocese of Winona are immediately reported to law enforcement.
Baptism, "God’s Most Beautiful Gift"
N a t i o n a l Catholic Schools Week 2014 Jan. 26 - Feb. 1 This year’s Catholic Schools Week theme is - Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge, and Service. The theme encompasses several concepts that are at the heart of a Catholic education. First, schools are communities—small families in their own right, but also members of the larger community of home, church, city and nation. Faith, knowledge and service are three measures by which any Catholic school can and should be judged. The new logo features a swirl of colors interacting around a cross, which is at the center of all Catholic education. The vibrancy of the colors and the movement and shadows in the logo portray the inner-connectivity and community life that are present in our Catholic schools. Additional Catholic Schools Week information will follow in the February’s edition of The Courier.
ning of goodness (Genesis 6- 8). Taking salvation history into account, one can begin to understand why the Church sees the validity of Baptism as conferred by immersion or pouring of blessed water with the proper form of words (Code of Canon Law 849, 854). Recently, a mother described to me her experience of having her child baptized, and she realized in the process that she promised to teach her child to live the faith, especially through her own witness, in front of the congregation. For this reason, instruction for the parents and sponsor(s), and support from the pastor and parishioners are vital. Mother Church says that, “the faith needs the community of believers” (CCC 1253). To live the Christian life, the baptized person is assisted by one male or female sponsor or one of each, who is a practicing Catholic, has received the Eucharist, and has been confirmed (Can. 872-874). The faith community is also key for adults intending to receive Baptism. As adults prepare to enter into the life of faith through the catechumenate process of the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, the welcome and example of Christian life lived by the People of God is essential. If we believe in salvation history that God has always desired to share His life Sr. Mary Juanita with us and sent His Son for Gonsalves, R.S.M. the redemption of our sins, Director Baptism sheds a new light. faithformation@dow.org We must look beyond the treasures of over-priced and “must have” gifts to the heavenly treasures. Only then can we enter the life of faith in communion with the Church to understand and view Baptism as the most beautiful gift.
9 Faith Formation
In the year 361, St. Gregory of Nazianzus said, “Baptism is God’s most beautiful and magnificent gift” (Oratio 40, 3-4: PG 36). Today, would St. Gregory repeat his statement if he saw all the over-priced and “must have” items that are shared around Christmas or New Year’s Day? Exploring the significance of the sacrament of Baptism, its purpose and essential elements, can assist in answering this question. According to St. Gregory, “[Baptism] is called a gift because it is conferred on those who bring nothing of their own.” Think back to an instance where you gave a gift without intending to receive one in return, simply because you cared for that person. But, how common is this charity when the world often encourages us to pursue goods for our own temporal satisfaction? Christ desired to lose his life on the cross to give us the gift of eternal life, which is life with the Eternal One. Through the sacrament of Baptism, a person is cleansed of original sin, forgiven all personal sins and enters into a new life—life in the Holy Spirit—which leads to eternal life. The Church celebrates the Christmas season from December 25th to the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which in 2014 falls on January 12. The gesture of Christ, who had no sin, of taking on the sins of humanity and cleansing us of sin in the waters of the river Jordon prefigured his death for the redemption of humanity (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1224). This price of Christ’s self-gift for our redemption illumined the Son’s loving obedience to the Father’s will and the Father’s love for the Son. The gift of this love, the Holy Spirit, is given to the newly baptized through anointing with the sacred chrism, a perfumed oil consecrated by the bishop. The baptism of Christ Jesus was prefigured throughout the Old Testament. For example, in the story of Noah’s ark, the water that engulfed the world was to put an end to sin and bring about a new begin-
Activities for the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, January 12
To celebrate the wonderful gift of Baptism, you may wish to try these activities: - Reflect on the prayer of the Church at the Baptism: “You have become a new creation, and have clothed yourself in Christ. See in this white garment the outward sign of your Christian dignity. With your family and friends to help you by word and example, bring that dignity unstained into the everlasting life of heaven. Receive this burning light. This light is entrusted to you to be kept burning brightly. Safeguard your baptism by a blameless life. Keep the Commandments of God, that when our Lord shall come to claim His own, you may be worthy to greet Him, with all the saints in the heavenly kingdom. Amen.” - Profess your faith with the Apostles Creed - If you have a young child, bring out your child’s baptismal gown or candle if you have saved them. Reminisce about the baptismal day or name given at baptism. Invite godparents and families to send an email greeting or to drop-in for the celebration. End with a Christmas song on this last day of Christmas.
Did You Know?
The Church celebrates January 18-25 this year as the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. According to the Second Vatican Council’s Decree on Ecumenism, Unitatis redintegratio 22 § 2, “Baptism constitutes the sacramental bond of unity existing among all who through it are reborn.” For the Eastern Orthodox Church, the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord is of great importance. Take time to pray that dialogue and collaboration with other Churches and ecclesial Communities may bring about restoration of Christian unity.
A Treasury of Prayers: We will begin a monthly column of prayers and their place in the tradition of the Church. The Presentation of the Lord, celebrated on February 2nd, is prayed as part of the Joyful mysteries of the Rosary. How do you celebrate this Feast? If you would like to share the reason in one or two sentences, please email: faithformation@dow.org or write to the Office of Faith Formation.
Inside the Diocese
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Pope Francis celebrates Mass with 4 homeless men on his 77th birthday
Pope Francis turned 77 on December 17 and celebrated Mass in the Santa Marta guesthouse with 4 homeless men, his closest collaborators and staff from the guesthouse, all of whom afterwards greeted him with a birthday song.
The birthday celebrations for Pope Francis started as they do for most of us. A few days before his birthday, there was an audience in the Paul VI hall at the Vatican on December 14. The Holy Father was presented with a cake and surrounded by smiling children. Websites, blogs, diocese and Catholic groups from all over the world sent Pope Francis countless birthday blessings and prayer bouquets. What was so unique was how Pope Francis chose to spend his actual birthday. Here is the report from the Vatican: "News.va - Official Vatican Network - 2013-12-17 Vatican Radio - It was Pope Francis’s 77th birthday on Tuesday and those present at his morning Mass included Archbishop Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State and Cardinal Angelo Sodano, the Dean of the College of Cardinals,
Educating on the Nature and Dignity of Woman
together with staff from the Santa Marta guesthouse. The congregation also included the Almoner Monsignor Konrad Krajewski who brought with him 4 homeless men who live in the streets around the Vatican. After the Mass, all those present wished the Pope a happy birthday and sang greetings to him before joining him for breakfast in the Vatican guesthouse. Today’s reading was centered on the genealogy of Jesus and the Pope used this in his homily to reflect on God’s enduring presence in our lives Children watch as Pope Francis blows out candles on a throughout history. He said “God wished to live out His life alongside birthday cake presented to him during an audience in Paul us” and “took His surname from VI hall at the Vatican Dec. 14. each of us.” mitted serious sins and who didn’t listen” to “God,” the Pope God’s plans for them. continued, “has Pope Francis said in addition to accompaalways walked nying us in our lives our God follows us and alongside His peo- in this way, he displays His humility, His ple,” beginning with patience and His love for us. He concluded his Abraham, Isaac homily with “a Christmas wish” for all of us “to and Jacob. He did allow God to write our lives for us.”" not want to come http://www.news.va/en/news/pope-francis-celebrates-massto redeem us with- with-4-homeless-men-o out coming to live among us and share When was the last time we stopped and our lives. The Pope spoke to a homeless person or a person or said this long list of family in great need? Pope Francis not only God’s people includ- stopped to recognize the human dignity of ed “saints and sin- these men, but he invited them into his home ners.” The latter on his birthday! included “high level Pope Francis always asks us to help the sinners who comHappy Birthday, Pope Francis, cont'd on pg. 16
A Lenten Retreat for Women
March 29, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Gaudalupe, main speaker: Vicki Thorn!
I am beyond excited to share with you the news about not just an evening event, but a full day retreat for women! This retreat is entitled "Forgiveness, Healing & God's Great Love" and will be held in the middle of Lent on March 29 at the Shrine of our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse, Wis. We, as women, are blessed with the ability to empathize with others. Our emotions give us keen insight to understand more fully how to love and care for those in our life. These deep emotions, however, can also make it difficult for us to let go of pain. On top of that, our identity as women has been called into question and we are constantly reevaluating ourselves according to others’ standards and we always fall short. We feel guilty that we weren’t a good enough friend, mother or daughter. We feel pain from broken relationships and past sins. And when we just don’t want to feel it anymore, we shove it deep down within ourselves and try to ignore it. I know because I did exactly that. I struggled with my self-image and anorexia in junior high and spent countless days hating who I saw in the mirror. That hurt I caused myself, and some of it was triggered by other relationships, but for the longest time I just pushed it aside. I mentioned everything else in confession but not that. It took years of God working on my heart and through the love of my husband to allow me to feel worthy of God’s love.
Whatever the pain in your soul, big or small, don’t wait years! Come spend time with Jesus and our loving Father at this retreat and allow Theresa Martin His forgiveness to lift Endow Coordinator the burden of emotional Endow@dow.org weight from your heart. What freedom there is in our Lord! This retreat day will also have the option of staying overnight (we will work out a discount with a nearby hotel), because we will have our last session in the late evening. It will be a day of conversion and love. And I am so excited to also tell you that we are bringing back by popular demand Vicki Thorn to be our main speaker at the retreat! We will of course have time for confession and Holy Mass. If the weather permits, we will have ample time for meditation so you can contemplate God’s beauty and love in the beautiful grounds at the Shrine. More details coming soon, but mark March 29 in your calendar and let your family know you are going on a retreat that day!
Seeds of Wisdom in South Sudan submitted by: Robert Tremain
Turning a dream into Reality
parishioners at St. John The Evangelist church in Rochester as Fr. John Lasuba. Raised in the violence of a civil war, Fr. John lost many of his family members to acts of hatred. Rather than react with anger, he held steadfast to his faith and ministered to his people until he had no choice but to leave Sudan in 2004. Since his departure, he has had a dream to help his people, specifically through providing educational resources to a country that is 80% illiterate. Fr. John knows that education is a fundamental right for everyone. It is the catalyst for dignity and independence. In October of 2010, Fr. John shared his dream with 3 parishioners from St. John's. This small gathering was the initial step in the pursuit of fulfilling what has now become a mission of hope. From that meeting, Seeds of Wisdom in South Sudan, a nonprofit 501c(3) organization was created. This organization consists of a 15-member Board of Directors located in Rochester, a sister Board of Directors in Yei, South Sudan (Fr. John’s hometown), a spiritual Board of Saints and the ongoing support of Msgr. Jerry Mahon, pastor of St. John the Evangelist. With the help of many volunteers and contributors of prayers and pledges, Seeds of Wisdom in South Sudan is on its way
to build a school campus within the 37 acres of land donated by Fr. John’s people, the Kakwas. At this point, the campus layout has been surveyed, the buildings have been defined and management and teaching staff are being sought. Phase 1 of the project will consist of a K-8 campus. Metal, self-contained classrooms (includes desks and chalk boards), will be purchased and assembled in 1 day. In addition Children gathered at the well.
to classrooms, Phase 1 will include a chapel, kitchen & dining hall, and the administration building. There will also be an adult and student latrine. A security fence will surround the campus. Two wells will be built; one inside the campus for the school and the other outside so the community has access to fresh water. Future phases include an additional pod of classrooms for grades 9-12 and a generator facility. The weekend of January 25-26 is the official launch of the Seeds of Wisdom in South Sudan fundraising effort. It will continue through the month of June; the financial goal is $725,000. This goal encompasses the fixed assets of the school and a 5-year operating budget for teacher and staff salaries, supplies, etc.
Works of Mercy
No doubt you have heard about Sudan on the news over the past several years. It is a country that has suffered greatly , experiencing a 25 year civil war that finally ended in 2005. Although there were many catastrophic results from that war, the good news is that the people now live with renewed hope about their future. Emerging from all of the past pain and suffering is a new country - South Sudan became the newest country on the planet on July 9, 2011. So what is the connection between the Diocese of Winona and the newest country on the planet, located just south of Egypt on the African continent? The connection is one man: lovingly known amongst his people in South Sudan as Lugala and lovingly known Fr. John Lasuba amongst his
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Changing Lives at the San Lucas Mission in Guatemala I was told on my last visit to San Lucas Mission in Guatemala (2009), that a part of you will always stay in San Lucas~ that was especially true for me. The people of San Lucas have never left my heart. I prayed how God could use me to help their family. I learned how on this last trip November 22 - Dec 2 while traveling with 13 others. The more I've gotten to know Bonifacio Cuz Tzunun and his family the past 4 1/2 years through letter writing, the more connected I felt. I wanted to share that connection with everyone else... especially with you my faith community. Bonifacio was orphaned at 7 months old. His mother was brought to the San Lucas clinic and died. Bonifacio was found, very sick in his mother's back-sling. He was taken to Casa Feliz Orphanage and there he grew up with the other 175 orphans and became an adoptive son to Father Greg Schaffer, the founder of San Lucas Mission. As Bonifacio grew up, he married his beautiful bride, Anna. They have been married over 18 years. They have six children and learned in 2007 that their seven year old daughter, Ana (Anita) had leukemia. Years of chemotherapy treatments, and numerous trips to Guatemala City each week, the family was sponsored by Father Greg financially, just to feed their family. I visited them on my last trip to San Lucas in 2009 with a group from Fulda, Mn. I was fortunate enough to write Bonifacio and Anita's stories. There was something about their family... they are so humble and meek. They are quiet mannered and have a strong faith. I learned that a hurricane ripped through Guatemala three years ago. Bonifacio's humble home was built of pieces of wood, corrugated metal and plastic. Their family lost everything in the torrential flood waters. Luckily, there was no loss of life. They built up the land and started over. Also during that time, Father Greg's health began to deteriorate (he was diagnosed with melanoma) and he needed to move back to the U.S. It was a very sad time, knowing that he wouldn't have Father Greg near his family. Sadly, Father Greg died May, 2012. He had touched so many people...over 25,000 people mourned his death. On this trip, I spoke with Bonifacio and his wife Anna at length. I asked them of their hopes and dreams... and Bonifacio shared of someday having a home of his own ... a cement block home. And I knew that was how I could help him ... to help build his family a permanent home. This Christmas, I plan to donate towards building Bonifacio his "dream home." I have been very blessed in my life and want to give something that I know will make a difference. I want to keep my promise that I made to Father Greg, that I would not forget the people of San Lucas. submitted by: Nichole Paladie
Lay Formation
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"Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of his faithful ones." Ps 116:15
Peter Marcel Graff died on December 7, 2013, the Memorial of Saint Ambrose and the 72nd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. He was 90 years old and had just celebrated this milestone birthday with his family two weekends before his death. He was known as “Marcel” through high school to distinguish himself from his father, “Peter,” and mostly called “Pete” or sometimes “Peter M.” after that. Perhaps some called him “Mr. Graff,” but that didn’t fit his humble demeanor. I had the great privilege to always call him “Dad.” He was a son (of immigrant parents), a husband (to Eileen for 15 years before her death, and of 47 years to Dolores), a father (of 11) / grandfather (of 33) / great grandfather (of 17), a banker (for 50+ years), a farmer (from his childhood), a World War II veteran (piloting dangerous nighttime missions over the Pacific Ocean), and a man of faith (whose witness was a lifetime of caring for his family and his bank customers, especially those in most distress). My dad hated to be the object of attention or to be in the spotlight, and had to patiently endure several occasions of public recognition in his final years. He would accept these acknowledge-ments of his many years of community and church service out of loyalty to whatever group or organization offered it, but never felt comfortable being the one acclaimed by others. In contrast to this, he always had time for a visit from a bank customer or a friend (many of whom were both). As a child, I had a downtown paper route, and would usually stop by the bank to see him after finishing my daily delivery. Often, I would find someone in his office who had come to visit or to check in after the bank had closed for the day. Dad always had time for whoever came to his office door, and never let the piles of work on his desk take precedence over their desire to see him. And, as importantly, he always had time to talk to me about my day and what I needed from him. Some of my greatest joys as a child were these times spent in his office, at the farm doing chores, or accompanying him on his errands around town. In our town, I was often referred to as, “Pete Graff’s son,” and I was very proud to Todd Graff be known in relation to him. Director My dad taught me to be a tgraff@dow.org good man, a faithful husband and father, a hard worker, and a caring friend to those in need. And, most significantly, he taught me how to be all of these through a life lived in witness to the Catholic Faith of our family. It was a faith I learned through
Catholic schools, through personal prayer and the celebration of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, and through an active witness of charity and service. Dad preached the love of Christ to me sometimes in words, but much more often in his quiet way of listening, caring, helping, guiding, encouraging. In the words of Blessed John Paul II, he was one of “the humble yet great builders of the Kingdom of God in history” (Christifidelis Laici, #17). I heard a homily recently that carried deep meaning to me as I readied myself for my father’s death. The priest was reflecting on death and the Communion of Saints and said that we have only one life, a life that is lived for awhile on this earth and then passes on into eternity. But, it’s one life – not an earthly life, and then a different life in eternity. Our life here has eternal meaning, and it is what we take into eternity. It is very comforting for me to know that even though my dad has died, his life continues into eternity and that all of his love and care for me, for our family, and for so many others, is carried with him and continues - Pope Francis, General forever. The man and Audience / November 27, 2013 the father that he has been, he will always be. It has given me a sense of peace in knowing that his death is not an ending, but a passing over from this earthly existence into his eternal life. The father he has been, he is now and will always be for all eternity. May the Angels lead him into paradise; may the martyrs greet him at his arrival and lead him into the holy city, Jerusalem. May the choir of Angels greet him and like Lazarus, who once was a poor man, may he have eternal rest. Amen.
“We die as we live.… Our Lord frequently tells us to be watchful, knowing that our life in this world is a preparation for the life to come. If we remain close to him, especially through charity to the poor and solidarity with those in need, we need not fear death, but rather welcome it as the door to heaven and to the joy of eternal life.”
I Want to Walk in Your Shoes, but They Feel Tight! by: Mary Alessio, Catholic Charities/ Director of Refugee Resettlement Dreams: We are told that for the most part, children are the most natural, prolific, and happy daydreamers and that the process actually plays an important role in developing their lives. In fact the most dynamic and innovative people in any endeavor are visionaries, dreamers. Today I am going to share with you my dream. It has been a secret aspiration for years; a contemplation of the idea that all is possible. My dream, like all other dreams, gives me hope and helps me get through the rough patches in life. My feeling is that without dreams the world looks gray, without possibilities, energy, and motivation. I dream of writing a children’s book someday; inspired with just the right words that will touch a child’s heart and imagination; encouraging them to believe that all is possible. I work for Catholic Charities and our mission statement calls for me to serve the poorest of the poor; many who have lost hope and the ability to dream and believe that all is possible. The refugee children I serve have experienced great heartache at a tender age. Some of the children I serve in the community may not be refugees, but many have dealt with their own struggles, pain, and disillusionment. They have handled more challenges in their youth than many of us tackle in a lifetime. I fear that if they stop
believing as children due to the discouragement that comes from heartache, if they stop seeing the good in others and attempting to walk in another’s shoes in order to tap into their virtue of empathy, they are doomed to a life of bitterness, resentment, and unfulfilled dreams. Ahh…did someone say shoes? What if a child slipped his feet into a pair of shoes and in that magical moment felt all the pains, joys, and sorrows of the owner of the shoes? What if a child was on a shopping spree and walked into the local Goodwill or Salvation Army store and saw a section filled with shoes? What if they had the ability to try each pair on and it allowed them to experience the moments of joy and pain that were associated with those shoes? Perhaps, those sandals could take them on a journey to a refugee camp and those slippers transport them to a children’s hospital where they sat for weeks waiting for a boy with Cystic Fibrosis to slip his feet in and take his first steps after surgery. Maybe, those weathered work boots that were patched up with cardboard daily, in order to keep toes dry, could take them on a journey to a hot warehouse where a father labored tirelessly for minimum wage in order to support his family. Why do we pass by the opportunity to “slip our feet into that pair of shoes,” to look at life from another’s perspective so we can be transported into another’s life of joys and sorrows? I think sometimes they are just too tight! We feel so comfortable in the shoes we have worn for years that we don’t want to try on othCatholc Charities, cont'd on pg. 14
The 8th Promise of the Sacred Heart “Fervent souls shall rise to great perfection”
Raymond de Souza, KM Director rdesouza@dow.org
too much to leave us the way we are! If we have left lukewarmness for fervor, He wants us to fly higher, much higher, towards perfection. The Saints in heaven have achieved perfection, because nothing defiled can enter heaven (Apoc. 22). Perfection is the imitation of Christ. To be able to say with Saint Paul, “I live, now not I: but Christ lives in me” (Gal. 2:20). And the perfect imitation of Christ consists in doing only one thing: to do the will of the Father. That is why we say in the Lord’s prayer, thy will be done. We don’t say, my will be done, do we? In the Via Dolorosa, the courageous Veronica received a unique gift: the face of the Savior was imprinted on her veil. But we are called to do immensely more than to have the picture of the Sacred Heart enthroned in our home, receive Holy Communion every first Friday or recite the litany often: The Sacred Heart of Jesus calls us is to imitate His virtues, to think as He thinks, to have His Mind, to behave as He wishes us to behave in all the circumstances of our lives. This supposes a real Catholic sense, an authentic and complete purity of customs and a profound and sincere piety. In other words, it supposes the sacrifice of an entire lifetime. And what is the reward? "Christianus alter Christus," The Christian is another Christ. We will be in an eminent way a reproduction of Christ Himself. The likeness of Christ, vivid and sacred, will be imprinted on our own souls. Devotion to the Sacred Heart is a most powerful aid to conform our lives to that of Jesus Christ. Let us say it again: “Christianus
alter Christus,” a Christian is another Christ. If we were really Christians, that is, really Catholics, we would be other Christs. But being another Christ carries some strings attached. There are three basic sentiments that hold sway in the adorable Heart of Jesus: complete dependence upon His heavenly Father, and therefore perfect humility (learn of me who am meek and humble of heart”, He said). Then secondly, a burning and universal love for all men (The Son of man came to save not to condemn). And finally a spirit of sacrifice (thy will be done, not mine). A consequence (among many others) of the imitation of Christ is to fall into the displeasure of the worldlings. Yes, it is a fact of life. When we decide to take the route to perfection, as the Sacred Heart of Jesus promises to help us in the eighth promise, we are going to displease some people. It is inevitable. The tumult of opposition that was raised against Jesus will also blow furiously against us. Let us look at a few examples. To be en route to perfection is to admire the school boy who suffers the mockery of his classmates because he professes Jesus’ Name and refuses to profane the innocence of his lips with words of impurity. To be en route to perfection is to admire the young lady who proclaims Jesus’ Name by refusing to wear the clothing that fashion dictates because by its extravagance or immorality it clashes with the dignity of a true Catholic young woman. To be en route to perfection is to admire the intellectual who sees the doors of fame and glory close before him because he proclaims Jesus’ doctrine and professes His Name. To be en route to perfection is to admire the apostle who suffers the merciless assault of the adversaries of the Church and the hostility, a thousand times more painful, of many who are children of light, solely because he does not consent to the dilutions, the mutilations, the one-sidedness with which the “prudent” buy the world’s tolerance for their ‘apostolate’. The Christian en route to perfection does not make pacts with the world: he does not retreat, compromise, dilute, or permit that the divine integrity of Catholic doctrine be defaced on his lips. If a flood of unpopularity breaks upon him, his prayer is always that from Sacred Scripture: “I have chosen to be an abject in the house of my God, rather than to dwell in the tabernacle of sinners” (Ps. 83:11). Today the Church suffers from a serious crisis of Faith, as Pope Benedict pointed out. Millions and millions of Catholics support views and habits entirely contrary to the Mind of Jesus Christ, as preached by the Magisterium of the Church. Could
it be that the spirit of the world – or ‘the tabernacle of sinners’, as Scripture calls it, has seeped into our culture, and many of us no longer desire holiness? In his apostolic Exhortation, ‘Sacramentum Caritatis’, Pope Benedict lamented the sad situation in our days when “the faithful are surrounded by a culture that tends to eliminate the sense of sin and to promote a superficial approach that overlooks the need to be in a state of grace in order to approach sacramental communion worthily”. The Holy Father regretted the reality in which certain type of superficial Catholics go to communion just because ‘everybody goes’ and ‘it is just part of the Mass’, and even if they are in state of mortal sin. Saint Paul (1 Cor. 11: 27-29) is very explicit about unworthy communions: “Whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eats and drinks unworthily, eats and drinks damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep (are dead)”. The Sacred Heart of Jesus invites us to take the road to perfection, to holiness, to imitate His virtues. That’s why frequent confession is necessary for those who struggle with mortal sin, in order to worthily receive Jesus in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. www.ProLifeKnights.com
Don Valentine, Administrator of St Pius X & St. John the Evangelist Retires
Medjugorje & Dubrovnik Pilgrimage 2014 11 Days May 5-15, 2014 $3,189 from Minneapolis, MN The price of $3189 includes round-trip air from Mpls., premium hotels, guides, buses and most meals. For more information, including a day-by-day itinerary, visit www.pilgrimages.com/frpeterson, or contact Father Steven Peterson, spiritual director, at 507-583-2529 or sjp4646@gmail.com
Registration deadline is February 5, 2014
Evangelization & Apologetics
When Jesus says that through devotion to the Sacred Heart fervent souls shall rise to great perfection, anyone can see that this is no small promise. Christian perfection is the supreme goal of our existence, that is, the identification with the thoughts and ways of Jesus Christ Himself, Who said at the end of the Sermon of the Mount, “Be ye perfect, even as your heavenly father is perfect.” Yes, some people retort, but Jesus loves us exactly as we are! So there is no need to fret over perfection… It is true that He loves us as we are, but He loves us way
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Don Valentine, administrator of Saint Pius X School and Saint John the Evangelist School, retired December 20, 2013. Don began his Catholic principal position in the fall of 2004 following his retirement from the Rochester Public Schools in 1999. He was contacted to fill the position of interim for the 2004-2005 school year. The interim request developed into nine and one-half years of employment. Don shared the following message in his announcement of retirement. “I have had the good fortune to have worked side-by-side with a dedicated and committed faculty, staff, and team of administrators. I am grateful for the many gifts they have shared with me and for the many ways they have positively impacted me both personally and professionally. Additionally, I have greatly appreciated the support of our parent community.” The Diocese of Winona Catholic Schools is indebted to Don for his years of faithful service. We thank him for his commitment to the important mission of the Church and faith filled impact on the lives of those children he served. We wish him a long, happy, and healthy retirement.
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TheCatholicSpirit:Immigration&theNextAmerica celebrated by the Pilgrims in Massachusetts in 1621. It was celebrated by Spanish missionary Executive Director of the Minnesota priests in St. Augustine, Fla., in 1565. Just as Catholic Conference religious zeal shaped America’s origins, our The story of America is the story of immi- nation was peopled in many cases by immigration. That is the message of Los Angeles grants seeking to practice their religion free Archbishop José Gomez’s important and from fear. These men and women used their timely book entitled, “Immigration and the labor and literally built this country. In fact, Next America” (Our Sunday Visitor). In it, one of the Founders’ objections to the rule of Archbishop Gomez argues that the immigra- King George III was that the colonial authorition debate is about much more than immigra- ties were too restrictive in their immigration policies. tion. Understanding these often forgotten parts At the heart of the immigration debate, Archbishop Gomez states, is an opportunity of the American story clarifies that America for national renewal. In rediscovering the was always shaped by interactions with other full history of our nation, and re-committing nations and cultures, particularly those of ourselves to its founding ideals, we will better Central and South America. By contrast, the understand what it means to be an American lack of a proper historical framework impedes — that it is not defined by insular, racial, the immigration debate and has often led ethnic definitions or Anglo-Protestant culture. Americans into a distorted and narrow sense of our own identity. Anyone can become an American. The American creed Such a renewal will allow our nation to Archbishop Gomez agrees with G.K. better understand the aspirations of aspiring citizens and pass the “human rights test” of Chesterton that “America is the only nation in the world that is founded on a creed.” immigration reform. According to Archbishop Gomez, American Archbishop Gomez claims that America’s history is not only English, but was deep- democracy and national identity are built ly shaped by other cultures, particularly on the pillars of four essentially religious Hispanic. The origins of America, he says, assumptions: the sovereignty of God, who is are really to be found in three zealous reli- the Lord of nations, peoples, and history; that gious missions to the New World: the Anglo- all men and women have a divine beginning Protestant, based on the Reformation; but also and transcendent destiny created by God and for God’s purposes; to fulfill these purposes God endows us with rights and freedoms; and finally, that government Deacon Eduardo Fortini exists to secure justice by protecting the Director of the Office of “unalienable” rights of the person. Hispanic Ministry Part of the American story, unfortuefortini@dow.org nately, is the constant struggle to live these ideals, even among the founding generation. As Archbishop Gomez the French and Spanish missions rooted in the states, “The common thread of prejudice in American history is the desire to define who is Catholic renewal of the Counter-Reformation. Mexico, for example, was the headquarters an American along narrow racial, ethnic, and of the Spanish evangelization of North and religious grounds.” Archbishop Gomez contends that defining South America and brought people from both continents together. Active Spanish missions American identity in narrow ways usually were present in San Antonio, Texas, before arises in a climate of fear in times of great George Washington was born. Similarly, the first “thanksgiving” was not Join veteran tour leader Father
Social Justice
by: Jason Adkins,
Catholic Charities, cont'd from pg.12
ers. We get consumed with our own desires and definition of happiness, that we forget how important it is to bring happiness into the lives of others. I have a lot of favorite books, but my favorites are still children’s books. When I go to the bookstore or library, I am always drawn to them. I admire the genuineness of children and that enkindles an overwhelming desire to remain childlike. Jesus tells us we should remain
childlike in our faith. In fact, His parables remind me of children’s books for they are simple and paint vivid images that help us clearly see the point. If I had the ability to slip into Christ’s torn and tattered sandals, I think I’d make better choices; love more and hurt less. I think I have my resolution for this New Year. I am going to write that book and try on more shoes with hopes they fit; even if they feel a bit tight. I have a dream that we might all see beyond our own pair of shoes and reach out in understanding to those around us, especially those in most need.
change. He contends that much of the opposition to immigration reform comes from a recognition that America is changing, and not for the better — a sentiment he shares. Yet, Archbishop Gomez also acknowledges that such fear-based attitudes are not consistent with who we are as Americans or our founding ideals. He says that we will only truly be able to fix the problems of our immigration system when we re-commit ourselves to the American creed of the sovereignty of God and the dignity of all human persons endowed with unalienable rights. A renewal of historical purpose and ideals along the lines Archbishop Gomez suggests will not only help us meet the test of immigration reform, but will also re-frame our approach to other policy challenges. If such a renewal takes place, the “next America” may be a better America. Find the article originally printed on the Minnesota Catholic Conference website: http://www. mncc.org/catholic-spirit-immigration-next-america/
John Vakulskas for a special
Pilgrimage to Italy
&
Visit Venice, Assisi, Florence, Ostiglia
February 18 - 28, 2014 $3099 - Chicago
$3199 - Omaha
Rome
• Price includes fuel surcharges and government taxes • Includes Round-trip air, First Class Hotels, most meals, daily tours, transfers, local guide and baggage handling.
Highlights of this pilgrimage are: audience with Pope Francis, daily Mass, Saint Peter’s, Vatican Art Museum and much more! An inspirational day in Assisi. The glories of Florence and Venice. A day in Ostiglia, home of Moser Rides, who is a friend of Father John.
Moser Rides
For more information contact: Father John Vakulskas Jr Saint Andrew Church PO Box 97 Sibley, IA, 51249 (712) 754-3311 or johnvakulskas@gmail.com
Mass for Life & Marriage St. Mary’s Church, Winona offers a Mass for Life and Marriage on the first Thursday of the month, at 5:15 p.m.
Prayer Vigil and Public Witness against Abortion Semcac Clinic is a delegate of Planned Parenthood – the nation's leading abortion provider. Please consider joining a local group from 3-4 p.m. each Tuesday in front of Semcac at 62 E 3rd Street in Winona for an hour of prayer. Contact Will Goodman at (608) 6987443. Saturday, Council of Catholic Women Meeting Jan 11th at St. Finbarr in Grand Meadow. We invite all women to come and take part in our day. 9 a.m.
SUBMISSION for the calendar
Please note: submission
deadline is the 15th of the month prior to the month of publication. All submissions must be sent electronically on our website:
www.dowcourier.org or by emailing:
and by the deadline in order to assure receipt and inclusion in the Events Calendar. Though not all events will fit, we strive to include as many events as possible. Thank you! - Courier Staff
13 Day Holy Land & Rome Pilgrimage to Rome March 17-29, $3,590.00 per person from Minneapolis, which includes: Roundtrip Air Transportation from Minneapolis, First Class Hotels, Double Occupancy, 2 Meals a Day Breakfast and Dinner, Daily Sightseeing, Airport taxes, fuel surcharges - which are subject to change and tips to guides and drivers. Spiritual Director: Fr. Robert Schneider. All Saints Catholic Church, Madison Lake. www.as-ic.org click on pilgrimage, (507)469-9979. Pilgrimage to Rome for JPII's Canonization Father Thomas Jennings will be leading a Pilgrimage to Rome for the canonization of Blessed John XXIII and Blessed John Paul II April 22 - 29, 2014. A day trip to Assisi will be included. Mass will be celebrated everyday. Please call 507-351-7136 for a flier and more information.
Retreats St Joseph Parish, Owatonna, A Morning of Prayerful Remembrance and Intercession Jan 11, Sat. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. a prayer service for the entire local community, which will include; reconciliation, adoration, and conclude with mass. The wounds of abortion impact each of us, we have all been affected by the loss of each child aborted and the often hidden suffering of their post-abortive parents.
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“Martha & Mary Women’s Conference” Dubuque, IA. A one-day “Martha & Mary Women’s Conference” is Sat. Feb. 15 in Dubuque, IA. Hosted by Springtime of Hope, a lay apostolate, whose mission is to evangelize by offering authentic Catholic teaching. Featured speakers: Kelly Wahlquist, Rosario Rodriguez and Kitty Cleveland. It is a great oppor-
Other St. Joseph’s Parish, Rushford. Free to any parish using OCP Today’s Missal which is published seasonally, 200 (more or less) vinyl covers for the regular size and 15 (more or less) covers for the large print edition. If interested, please contact David U’Ren at St. Joseph’s Parish in Rushford. 507-458-2544 or paradm@ acegroup.cc.
Traditional Latin Mass 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.
15 Events in the Diocese
Holy Hour of Prayer, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona will host the monthly Holy Hour of Prayer for Life, Marriage, and Religious Liberty on Saturday, Jan 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. after the 8 a.m. Mass. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed and a beautiful Rosary will be offered, along with prayer and relfection. Everyone is welcome.
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tunity to grow in your faith with 400 women! Special sessions for teens.
Pilgrimages
Action with Prayer
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
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. fathercar-
los@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 Fr. Edgar Diaz, IVE: SS. Peter and Paul Church,105 N. 5th Street. Mankato, ediaz@hickorytech. net Tel. 507-388-2995
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 & Paul, Spanish Mass, 1 p.m., every Sunday.
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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. the Kaywa QR Code Reader (App Store &Android Market) and scan your code! St. James, St. James, Spanish Mass, 12 p.m.,Download 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.
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• Diocese of Winona
Happy Birthday, Pope Francis, cont'd from page 10
poor. He lives what he teaches so profoundly it is hard not to be affected by his humble challenges. Perhaps we may take a step back and ask ourselves how we can "take in" those in need. Maybe we can reach out to the elderly or sick in our own parish or neighborhood. Maybe you know exactly where a poor person lives and you could surprise them with a basket of food? Let us not only marvel at our Holy Father, but let his words and actions sink in to challenge us (even though it is difficult) to go beyond ourselves and in our own way bring others into our lives. The Courier
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A photo of the Pope posing with young fans at the Vatican has gone viral on social media, with gleeful reports that it was the first ever "Papal selfie".
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125 Years, cont'd from pg. 1 the seventh Bishop of the Diocese of Winona on January 6, 1999. On May 7, 2009, Bishop Quinn was installed as Eighth Bishop of the Diocese of Winona. With all the rich history within our diocese, Bishop Quinn has proclaimed this year as a Year of Thanksgiving for the Diocese of Winona! We will be celebrating our 125 years of faith through many events, celebrations and even the compilation of a book of diocesan history! Keep an eye out for the events happening throughout the diocese this year, especially the June Ministry Days event and the 125th celebration on September 13th at the Verizon Wireless Center in Mankato. As we rejoice over the past 125 years, we look for new ways to spread the Good News to the faithful and connect with an ever-changing world. We are excited to present this new format of The Courier in hopes that it will make the experience of reading the diocesan news more enjoyable and accessible. We have also launched a website just for The Courier! With articles, photos, and events in an interactive format, you can read The Courier on the web, and easily share the link of just that one article you loved with friends through email, Facebook, Twitter or whatever social network you use. You can even submit all your parish and community events as well as potential articles right on the site and see what events are coming up soon on The Courier calendar! Please check it out: www.dowcourier.org From The Courier staff, we wish you a Happy 125th Anniversary year and may we celebrate many more years to come! (We will be featuring human-interest stories of parishes, religious orders, and diocesan families in The Courier this year. If you have a story that you would like to submit for consideration, please submit it on our new website: dowcourier.org.)
Celebrations
St. Francis Xavier, in Windom, celebrated the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, patron Saint of the Americas.