Courier

THE COURIER

November 2012

Roman Catholic Diocese of Winona

Thankful to be Catholic Americans Ask Father Vogel: Should being Catholic affect my vote?

By Rev. Andrew Vogel It seems as if politics and ideologies have become ever more contentious in our nation. As Catholics, though, what should be our end goal?

How do we build a civilization where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive and not just survive? What is most important to remember?

Descartes began modern philosophy when he said, “I think, therefore I am.” Those that followed him took this as a separation of mind and body.

They thought if this was true, then a person’s worth is found in the mind, in how well they think. This would mean that older people, mentally handicapped, the unborn, and others not as intelligent would have less value. In fact, some deemed their worth so low, that their life is thought to be unworthy to be lived that they would indeed be “better off dead.” This is not what we believe as Christians.

Our worth comes from God. He not only created us in His image, but humbled Himself and actually took on our human nature. Jesus Christ becoming man gave the human person tremendous dignity! This is true no matter how well we think, no matter how much we “contribute” to society. Every human person is made in His image and likeness; we reflect His divine nature: where there

is a constant giving of self to another. “This likeness reveals that man, who is the only creature on earth which God willed for itself, cannot fully find himself except through a sincere gift of himself,” the Vatican II document Gaudium et Spes (Joy and Hope) reminds us (24).

God has given us not only an ability to know but also an ability to love. That love begins with those closest to us. We make a gift of ourselves to our spouse and then, in turn, to our children. Our ultimate vocation is love of God and others, and we first (should) learn this love in the context of a family. Because of this, the ultimate fate of society and the human race lies in the family; and the fate of the family is found in the intimate life of husband and wife.

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Volume 103, No. 11

INSIDE Meet our Catholic Schools!

The family is the building block of society and the foundation of the “civilization of love” and should be reinforced by supporting marriage between one man and one woman.

However, if we, as Catholics, are going to transform the world into a civilization of love, changes need to be made outside the home as well. Blessed John Paul II said that the dignity of a human person demands that they be loved and never used merely as a means to an end.

This needs to be true in relationships at home, but it also needs to be true in our relationships at work.

The moment a business loses sight of the fact that its employees, the people, are its most important asset is the moment the moral foundation and ability for long-term success of the company begin to crumble. True economic success and development can only have long term capability when it is founded on moral values.

Our public policies must protect the dignity of every single person. This includes the unborn, poor, marginalized and aged. The “freedom” to have an abortion (which is presented as “essen-

tial” to the freedom of the mother), becomes instead the means by which the rights of too many unborn persons are trampled. The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America states that “all men [human beings] are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness.” Nowhere does it say that someone has the legal right to destroy the child in a woman’s womb. But we do have public government documents stating that God has given every person the inalienable right to life. How can we build a civilization of love when a segment of our society is being killed by the thousands every day? There are 3,300 abortions performed everyday in the United States alone (that’s approximately one child aborted every 26 seconds). Blessed John Paul II has three fundamental principles to the Culture of Life which every society must acknowledge: 1. The incomparable value and dignity of every human being regardless of age, condition, or race.

2. That it is always a violation of human dignity to treat anyone as an instrument or means to an end. Instead, every person must be seen Voting, cont. on pg. 4

were overjoyed when they chose us to parent their child, fulfilling a dream that we had moments of believing might never come true.

We were called when Ean’s birth mother was going into the hospital to be induced, and we waited at the hospital, along with her family, as she prepared to give birth. We were able to see Ean immediately when he was born and will never ever forget the emotions felt by all involved as he was placed in our arms by his birth parents. Today, we

maintain a semi-open adop- life story. After being high tion with Ean’s birth parents, school sweethearts and marsending pictures and letters rying after graduating from in the mail a few times a year college, we assumed that havand corresponding through ing a baby would come just as email with pictures and notes easily as everything else in many other times. Not a day our relationship had. Little goes by that we don’t think of did we know at that time that them and the unselfish deci- we would face years of infersion they made to give Ean tility treatments before we life and bless us with a fam- would ultimately make the ily! decision to follow the path of As we enjoy every minute adoption, a path that had a we have with Ean, our diffi- rocky start to it. A year after cult path to parenthood seems we were approved by Catholic to fall into the shadows; nev- The Beauty of Adoption, ertheless, it is a part of our cont. on pg. 10

More on page 7

Remembering the importance of Vatican II

More on YOF page 1

Join our diocese's March for Life group in January!

More on page 8

The Beauty of Adoption

By Andy and Ann A little over five years ago our dream of becoming parents became a reality when our son, Ean, was born. About three months prior to his birth, we received a call from our Catholic Charities social worker that there was a birth mother and father that had viewed our profiles and were interested in meeting us. We met with Ean’s birth mother and father, their parents, and our social workers and felt a connection right away. We

2 - The Courier, November 2012

BISHOP QUINN

Most Rev. John M. Quinn: Hearts of Thanksgiving Dear Friends in Christ, This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad! I am filled with joy as I write to you with a most grateful heart. November is the time that our nation has chosen to ‘give thanks’ for our countless blessings from God. I take this opportunity to let you know that not a single day goes by that I do not give thanks for all of you, the faithful of the Diocese of Winona.

As the shepherd of this diocese, one of the most humbling yet joyful experiences I have is witnessing your response to God’s call to help with the needs of each other and the needs of the Church.

So many of you place your gifts, your resources – yourselves – at God’s service in and through the Church. For this, I am truly grateful. By your holy and generous hearts, you build up the Church through your Eucharistic lives.

Gratitude

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, I want to take a moment to share just a few of the many reasons my heart is so grateful.

First, I am grateful for God’s bountiful love in Christ, which called me to ordained ministry according to his purpose. I am grateful to every single person that has supported and formed me along my spiritual journey, especially to all of you who pray for me and support my ministry as your bishop.

I am grateful for our priests, deacons, and religious brothers and sisters of the past and present. Without their ‘yes’, without their total com-

mitment to Jesus, the Church would be less effective in its public ministry. Thank you for offering your lives. I am grateful for our seminarians, the young men discerning a call to the priesthood of Jesus Christ. They are true hope and a bright light to all.

Marriage

I am so grateful to God for the gift of marriage! I applaud each of you who are living out your sacramental married life with your spouse. You are a witness of God’s love to others through your marriage and your family. Marriage is the union of one man and one woman for the procreation and raising of children.

Marriage is unique and is not the same as any other relationship or friendship, and it is the fundamental building block of society. This is why marriage is so important and why it is vital to speak up for marriage.

Marriage is under attack from many different levels.

My nieces and nephews love to play the game Jenga. It’s a tower of criss-crossing rectangular blocks and everyone takes a turn removing one. If you make the tower fall, you lose. I see this as a great analogy to marriage. There are some pieces that are very important to keeping the tower strong.

If you remove those, everything will topple. We must be careful to safeguard what is most important. This is why I invite you to join with me and my brother bishops in the state of Minnesota this month and support marriage with a resounding “Yes!” on November 6th. (Remember, leaving the marriage amendment question blank when

you go to vote, counts as a “no” vote.)

Catholics Care. Catholics Vote.

We are blessed to live in the United States of America.

We have the freedom to let our voices be heard and the freedom to exercise our minds and our hearts as we vote with faithful citizenship, both faithful Catholics and American citizens. We inform our conscience through seeking out what the Church says about different life and social issues.

The human person is given such a great dignity by God, being made in His image and likeness, that each human life is sacred. The dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral society. We value life from conception to natural death. We know that the person is also not only sacred, but social. How we organize our society directly affects human dignity.

Marriage and family are the central social institutions that must be supported and strengthened, not undermined. We value putting the needs of the most vulnerable first, including children, the poor and marginalized. Let us all pray before the Blessed Sacrament about our choices in this election, allowing Christ Himself to guide us to a clear vision and give us the courage to follow it.

Life

November is National Adoption Month. I am thankful for the gift of life we each have received from God. What a beautiful gift of family life a couple can give to an orphaned or abandoned child

Bishop John M. Quinn when they open their hearts to adoption! We want women in crisis pregnancies to know there are other options.

I want to thank Catholic Charities especially for all their efforts in helping generous couples and these wonderful children find each other. This is a great service in living out our prolife belief, that we are not merely against abortion but we are for life!

I am so grateful to all who are involved in the adoption ministry, may God bless your work as you continue to be a light of hope to those in need.

Stewardship

The recognition that all we have is a gift from God is the liberating reality that begins our lives as Christian stewards. Jesus is our model of stewardship. His perfect selfemptying example is beyond our grasp yet it is our duty and within our power as His disciples to be generous stewards…giving freely of our time, talent and treasure.

As St. Paul reminds us, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully…God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Cor 9:6-7) Thank you for being a cheerful giver.

One of my roles as your Bishop is to communicate a

vision and extend an invitation to you to realize that you are no less than “God’s co-workers” (1 Cor 3:9), with your own unique role in His creative, redemptive, and sanctifying work. I take this responsibility seriously and so does my Curia. I want you to know that we are aware of your response to God’s call your ‘yes’ to our Lord – just like that of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who after Jesus, most perfectly teaches the meaning of discipleship and stewardship.

All Saints Day

The Church begins November with the Feast of All Saints to remind us that our lives are destined for union with God in heaven.

On November 1, the Church celebrates the countless numbers of men and women who behold the mystery and beauty of the Trinity in heaven. Saints are ordinary people who loved God and loved people in an extraordinary way and desired holiness more than anything in this world.

I know I have lived with saints, worked with them and learned from them. A priest friend often preached that Saints are sinners who kept trying. So, don’t give up! Jesus Christ gave us the Eucharist, the Sacrament of Penance and the other Sacraments to transform our hearts so that we can become servants of God in this world and one day in heaven, behold the beauty, the glory and the love of the Triune God and take our place in the communion of Saints.

Bishop, cont. on pg. 5

Bishop's Calendar - November 2012 November 1, Thursday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University 10 a.m. – Holy Hour (Bishop’s Cabinet) 12:10 p.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist, All Saints Day, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona 5:30 p.m. – Pray with “40 Days for Life Group” at Planned Parenthood, Rochester November 2, Friday 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. - Meeting, fol-

lowed by lunch with non-Winona Seminarians at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary 4:45 p.m. – Evening Prayer, followed by dinner with Juniors of Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, at Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona November 4, Sunday 10 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist, at Ss. Peter & Paul Church, Mazeppa 5:30 p,m. – Operation Andrew Dinner, Basilica of St. Stanislaus

November 6, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University 4:45 p.m. – Evening Prayer, followed by dinner with Sophomores of Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, at Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona November 7, Wednesday 11 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist, at Priests’ Retreat, Alverna Center, Winona 2 – 4 p.m. – Meeting with

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.

non-Winona Seminarians at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary November 8, Thursday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University 10 a.m. – Holy Hour (Bishop’s Cabinet) 11 a.m. – Bishop’s Cabinet Meeting November 9, Friday 6:30 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist, followed by break-

fast with Seminarians at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary 11:45 a.m. – Lunch and meeting for Mayo Clinic Sponsorship Board, Mayo Clinic, Rochester November 11-14, Sunday Wednesday United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Baltimore November 15, Thursday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University

THE COURIER (ISSN 0744-5490)

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

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

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

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

IN THE DIOCESE

CCW gives Bishop Quinn Check of Hours Served

The Courier, November 2012 - 3

Seminary Information Weekend

Longest Ordained Priest of the Diocese Continues to Serve Fr. Edward Mountain celebrates 65th anniversary to the priesthood.

By Mary Trenda

Harveen Gluf, President of Winona Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, presents Bishop John M. Quinn with a mock check for $1,450,000 representing all the hours that women have volunteered all across the diocese, in their parishes, their communities, and many charities as well as prayer.

Bishop's Calendar - cont.

November 16, Friday 4:30 p.m. – Blessing for new location of “Gifts of Faith” store, Rochester 5 p.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist with Rochester Marriage Amendment Group, St. James Coffee House, Rochester November 17, Saturday Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference (DCYC) – Fitzgerald Middle School, Mankato 8:45 – 9:30 p.m. – Adoration at DCYC, Fitzgerald Middle School, Mankato 8:45 – 9:30 p.m. – Reconciliation at DCYC, Fitzgerald Middle School, Mankato November 18, Sunday Diocesan Catholic Youth Conference (DCYC) – Fitzgerald Middle School, Mankato 9:30 a.m. – DCYC Liturgy of the Eucharist, Ss. Peter & Paul Church, Mankato 5:30 p.m. – Vespers and Thanksgiving Dinner at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary November 19, Monday 12:10 p.m. – Mass for Deceased Clergy, St. John the Evangelist, Rochester November 20, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University November 27, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University 10:30 a.m. Consultors Meeting November 28, Wednesday

10 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist, followed by lunch with Hermits of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel, Carmelite Hermitage, Houston November 29, Thursday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University 1 p.m. – Holy Hour (for Bishop’s Cabinet) 2 p.m.. – Bishop’s Cabinet Meeting

Father Edward Mountain was ordained on June 1, 1947 and has served the Diocese of Winona for the past 65 years.

The Catholic Community of Owatonna and surrounding parishes have been the beneficiaries of the fruits of his priesthood since 1977 when Father was assigned to Sacred Heart for 8 years, then to Christ the King in Medford

and Corpus Christi, Deerfield until 1989.

Since then, Father has resided in Owatonna and has ‘filled in’ at our local parishes as well as weekly Monday morning mass at Christ the King. He can always be counted on for a ‘sick call’ or ‘to help out’ when there is any emergency, illness, etc.

This June the Owatonna Council 945 of the Knights

of Columbus dedicated the ‘Crucifixion Scene’ at Sacred Heart Cemetery, the cemetery in Owatonna for both members of Sacred Heart and St. Joseph’s parishes.

In thanksgiving for 65 years of priesthood, Father Mountain donated the altar and the statues of Mary and St. John to complete the scene. Father did not want any celebration…just prayers.

Gifts of Faith Store Expands and Relocates

November 30, Friday 6 p.m. – St. Thomas More Newman Center December 2, Sunday 10:30 a.m. – Liturgy of the Eucharist and Blessing of new social hall at St. Bridget Church, Simpson December 4, Tuesday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University December 5, Wednesday 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. - Minnesota Catholic Conference Meeting, St. Paul December 6, Thursday 7:45 – 9 a.m. – Teaching, St. Mary’s University 10 a.m. – Holy Hour 11 a.m. – Presbyteral Council Meeting, Albert Lea 5:30 p.m. – St. Vincent de Paul Blessing of Conferences, followed by Soup/Bread Supper, St. John the Evangelist Church, Rochester December 7, Friday 12:10 pm – Liturgy of the Eucharist for Patronal Feast at St. Mary’s University Chapel, followed by lunch

By Sharon Goldsmith When you think of faith and saints, they go together like coffee and cream. Gifts of Faith Catholic Book and Gift Store have made a pilgrimage across Rochester to expand their services and inventory. They have relocated from their small space to a larger store located at 4152 18th Avenue NW (Cedarwood Plaza) in Rochester, across from Pax Christi Church and next to the new St. James Coffee Shop! This additional space allows them to expand their offerings and add some customer seating as well as a children’s area.

Gifts of Faith carries a

vast assortment of bibles and religious books, rosaries, devotionals, baptism, confirmation and First Communion gifts, medals, music, jewelry, wedding, seasonal items, jams, Carmelite coffee, cards, and many items too numerous to mention. They provide all materials to help in your religious education needs – from the child to the elderly. And, they can special order any item that you may require.

They also stock church supplies – candles, holy water, oils, communion pyx, and can special order albs, other apparel, and numerous additional items if desired.

Newest arrival – they will

create gift baskets of all sorts to your liking and will deliver free in the Rochester area.

Now family owned and operated, Gifts of Faith is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with a plan to expand their hours in the near future when the “dust has settled.” Stop in to Gifts of Faith, 4152 18th Avenue NW in Rochester and take a look. After all, maybe you can purchase a book to nourish your spiritual and intellectual appetite, and enjoy a coffee and pastry next door at St. James Coffee Shop to satisfy your physical appetite.

4 - The Courier, November 2012

LIFE

Voting, from pg. 1 ThanksgivingforMarriage as good in himself or herself and never as an object to be manipulated.

3. The intentional killing of an innocent being, whatever the circumstances and particularly in cases of abortion and euthanasia, cannot be morally justified.2 Also, especially applicable to our own diocese, there is an influx of Hispanics into America, and most of them are Catholic. “American Catholics cannot limit their cultural and intellectual perspective to their customary Eurocentric horizons. At this point, the future of the Catholic Church in this nation is intimately and irrevocably linked with the future of the Hispanic people...it is also true that the future prospects of a culture of life in our country are inseparably tied to the future of Hispanics in America.” Therefore we need to integrate them into our parishes, our towns, and our personal lives. We need to fight for laws that protect our great nation, but also recognize the importance and the integrity of Hispanic families.

Catholics’ involvement in the running of and the change of government is essential to what it means

to be Christian. We cannot run from this. Our faith must influence how we vote, how we participate in the public realm. The “Catholic vote” should mean something. If the teachings of our Catholic Church disagree with public policy, that should show up in the way we Catholics vote.

On Tuesday, November 6th, we need to vote for persons and policies that protect and recognize the dignity and worth of every single person, from the unborn to the dying, from the legal born citizen to the undocumented immigrant.

We need to vote for persons and policies that encourage the culture of life, that civilization of love, which is founded in marriages between one man and one woman. We need to vote for persons and policies that support religious freedom and promote the value of faith in society. We must vote as Catholics, but it is equally important that we live as Catholics, living out a civilization of love in our daily lives.

Over 43 years ago my parents stood before their family and friends and pronounced their vows to one another: “I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health…”

They trusted in the love they had for one another, the assistance of their family and friends and, ultimately, in God to help them to faithfully live these vows out.

As it is with every couple who joins in Marriage, the good times came naturally and the bad came, well, inconveniently. What they were sure of, however, is that God’s grace would be there to help them pull through. That’s the beauty of Sacramental Marriage!

I always smile at the disciples’ candid response to Jesus when He pronounced divorce as unlawful: “[His] disciples said to him, ‘If that is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry.’” (Matt 19:10) They rightly understood one thing: Marriage is difficult! It takes work! What they didn’t seem to grasp was that God would

1. Source for article: Anderson, Carl. A Civilization of Love: What Every Catholic Can Do to Transform the World, Harper Collins Publisher, New York, NY, 2008.

(All quotes are from this book unless otherwise indicated.)

2. Bl. John Paul II. Evangelium Vitae, March 25, 1995.

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.

Madelia, St. Mary, Spanish Mass, 9:30 a.m., every

Sunday.

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

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

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

St. Charles, St. Charles

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

St. James, St. James, Spanish Mass, 11:30 a.m., every Sunday.

Waseca, Sacred Heart, Spanish Mass, 7 p.m., every Saturday.

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

Hispanic Priests/Sacerdotes Hispanos: Padre Luis Alfonso Vargas Capellán - Decanato de Worthington lukiponcho@yahoo.es Tel. 507-341-0403

Padre Mariano Varela Parroco - Ss. Peter and Paul en Mankato mvarela@hickorytech.net Tel. 507-388-2995 ext 103

Padre José Morales Capellán - Decanato de Rochester jloralesr2008@yahoo.es Tel. 507-329-2931

Padre Octavio Cortez Vicario Parroquial - Ss. Peter and Paul en Mankato

Padre Carlos Arturo Calderón Capellan - Decanato de Mankato carlosantiguas@hotmail.com

Padre Raul Silva Vicario Parroquial - Queen of Angels en Austin

not abandon us: “He [Jesus] answered, ‘Not all can accept [this] word, but only those to whom that is granted.’” (Matt 19:11) With these words, Jesus defines Marriage as a vocation. We are called to Marriage and in that calling, God grants us the grace to fulfill it. We aren’t given the grace to merely “get by,” but we are given the grace to thrive in Marriage!

The Church echoes this in the Vatican II Document Gaudium et Spes (Joy and Hope): “By virtue of this sacrament, as spouses fulfill their conjugal and family obligation, they are penetrated with the spirit of Christ, which suffuses their whole lives with faith, hope and charity. Thus they increasingly advance the perfection of their own personalities, as well as their mutual sanctification, and hence, contribute jointly to the glory of God.” (48) Another beauty of Marriage is that we, the children, learn from our parents how to live. When my parents stood at the altar, they could never have imagined what

The Office of Life Peter Martin, STL Director pmartin@dow.org affect their love would have on the world. My brothers and sisters and I (along with all our children) will forever be grateful for that moment when they joined themselves in a covenant with God and especially for all the moments thereafter, when they lived out that promise! During this time of Thanksgiving, let us take the time to thank our parents for their love for one another, and ultimately, let us thank God for the Sacrament of Marriage!

Vote YES for Marriage on November 6, and remember leaving it blank counts as a "no" vote!

Sunday, October 7 (Respect Life Sunday) marked the 25th year of the National Life Chain, which takes place in over 1600 cities across the country and in Canada. In Winona, over 100 pro-lifers came out to witness to the over 54 million lives lost to abortion, while spending an hour in silent prayer for our country and for an end to abortion.

protect her future Secure your Income Do both with a Charitable Gift annuity from CRS.

Contact CRS today: E crs.org/annuities c 1-888-277-7575, ext. 7324 m plannedgiving@crs.org

The official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States.

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The Courier, November 2012 - 5

MISSION ADVANCEMENT

Bishop Rooted in Faith...Rejoice in Hope from pg. 2

Month of Holy Souls

On November 2, the Church celebrates All Soul’s Day and prays for those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. Death will claim every living person and thing. Jesus Christ is our hope and His victory over sin and death reminds us that life does not end in death. In the first preface for the dead in the new missal are the beautiful words, “Indeed for your faithful, Lord, life is changed not ended, and when this earthly dwelling turns to dust, an eternal dwelling is made ready for them in heaven.”

Be sure to pray for our beloved dead in purgatory during this month of the Holy Souls. I am greatly comforted that if I am not ready to be in God’s presence after death, there is time for purification so that divine love can break fully into my life and Christ can be the center of all my relationships. Eternal rest give to them O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them.

As I conclude this message, I want to say once again that my heart is truly filled with gratitude towards all of you. Thank you for the love you share through your gifts of time, talent and treasure. I entrust you to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, praying that your stewardship will lead you one day to hear the Master’s words: “Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Mt 25:34) Sincerely in Christ, Most Rev. John M. Quinn Bishop of Winona

(Romans 12:12)

After much prayer and deliberation with his Clergy Committee, Bishop John M. Quinn is excited to unveil the theme for the Diocese of Winona’s important fundraising campaign: Rooted in Faith…Rejoice in Hope!

(Romans 12:12) “This campaign will address urgent needs for the future of the Church and our Diocese. I feel that this theme reflects our intentions for the campaign – honoring the priests who have given their life of service to the Church, and rejoicing in the hope of a greater tomorrow,” Bishop Quinn stated.

Since the feasibility study concluded in July, Bishop Quinn and Diocesan leadership have been focused on preparing campaign materials, recruiting a Clergy Committee, and organizing the logistics of the Diocesanwide effort. Starting in November, Bishop Quinn will begin visiting with parishioners asking them to help generate momentum by supporting the campaign.

“There are many parishioners who have the potential to make transformational gifts. Their sacrificial giving will help set an example for others to follow.”

The “parish phases” of the campaign won’t kick off until early 2013. Bishop Quinn intends to travel to every part of the Diocese to share the vision, answer questions and express gratitude.

At the heart of the campaign will be two critical

goals: • Priest Retirement • Major improvements to IHM Seminary

Responding to the request of pastors and listening to the voice of the people, a portion of the campaign proceeds will be returned to each parish to address important needs at the local level. In helping Bishop Quinn to address the critical diocesan needs, your gift will also benefit your local parish.

Listening to the needs of parishes has been a high priority thus far and will continue to be throughout the campaign. The Church is at a critical junction in history right now. Providing security for our retired priests, doubling-down our vocations efforts and strengthening the local Church will keep us centered on the firm foundation which is Jesus Christ.

In addition, Bishop Quinn and the Clergy Committee have determined that 2013’s annual appeal (ADA) will be included as part of the campaign, and not run separately. This will simplify matters for pastors and parishioners.

More details will be provided as the new year approaches.

Stay Informed! One of Bishop Quinn’s priorities during the campaign is to provide open communications and transparency. If you would like to receive periodic email updates about the campaign, please visit www.dow. org and provide your email address.

Or, simply scan the QR code below with your smart phone. You will have the opportunity to specify what updates you’d like to receive and can cancel at anytime.

A campaign web-

The Office of Mission Advancement Joel Hennessy Director page will be launched in the near future, please visit the diocesan website or “Like” the diocesan Facebook page to stay informed.

WANTED: Career Life Agents DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A SUCCESS? w Are you interested in serving your fellow Catholics? w Are you active in your parish? w Do you love your Catholic faith? w Do you have some sales experience?

For information, visit kofc.org/careers. If interested, send your resume to Aaron Jelinek, FIC, LUTCF, MDRT, General Agent, at aaron.jelinek@kofc.org or call (952) 513-8784.

6 - The Courier, November 2012

VOCATIONS

Golden Jubilarians

Fourteen members of the Sisters of Saint Francis of Rochester, MN, celebrated their Golden Jubilee (50 years as a Rochester Franciscan) with family and friends on August 11, 2012.

Standing, L to R: Sisters Joan Hrabe, Lois Knipp, Lucille Hass, Phyllis Sellner, Theresa Hoffmann, Geneva Berns, Ann Redig, Valerie Kilian and Judith Chiodo. Seated, L to R: Sisters Chabanel Hayunga, Anne Walch, Lorraine Loecher, Nancy Casey and Mary Carroll.

The Office of Vocations

Meet Our Seminarians Celebrating 25 Ryan years of hermitage life.

We continue to honor the beauty of the life of prayer the Hermits of St. Mary of Carmel live out daily as they celebrate their 25th anniversary of living in the Diocese of Winona this year.

The Hermits of St. Mary of Carmel (HSMC) is a community of Carmelite nuns who live a hidden life of silence and prayer in imitation of the humble and simple life of the Mother of Jesus of Nazareth.

In 1987, they moved to a beautiful location near Houston, MN, in the Diocese of Winona, where they have lived since.

Following the tradition of

Msgr. James David Habiger

Senior at IHM. Originally from Mapleton, MN

hermits, they rely on Divine Providence, not only for vocations to their community, but also for their everyday needs. The sisters look solely to donations from benefactors for support, and in return, they pray unceasingly for the intentions of our diocese.

Congratulations, sisters!

Prayer requests to or financial support for the Sisters of St. Mary of Carmel can be sent to: Hermits of St. Mary of Carmel, 33005 Stinson Ridge Rd., Houston, MN, 55943.

Obituaries

Served the people of God for 61 years as a faithful priest. At age 85, on October 9, 2012, Msgr.

Habiger entered eternal life, united once again with his parents, Joseph and Edith and brother, Joe. Raised in Owatonna, he was ordained to the priesthood on May 19, 1952.

He served in several parishes in Austin, Winona and Rochester. After serving as high school principal at Cotter, he was appointed Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Winona, a post he held for 17 years. He was well respected.

In 1980, he became the Director of the MN Catholic Conference. He also served in many capacities in the Twin Cities: serving in many parishes, moderator for the Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women as well as chaplain at the University of St. Thomas.

He is survived by his sister, Jean Matthews; sister-inlaw, Lorraine Habiger; uncles, Jerome Habiger; nieces, nephews, cousins.

Fr. James Edward Dandelet

Age 88, of Easton, entered

Anderson:

into eternal life on October 14, 2012. He reunited with his parents, James and Louise ( To u s i g n a n t ) Dandelet; sisters and brothersin-law, Irenaea & Kenneth (Wedding), Mary Joan & A.J. (Vogel), Marian & Bernard (Kroc); sister, Betty.

Born in Mason City, Iowa on June 30, 1924 and raised in Austin, he attended Austin Junior College, Pasadena Junior College in ASTP Army Program, Loyola/Marymount, L.A., St. Mary's Winona, and the St. Paul Seminary.

He was ordained into the Priesthood on June 6, 1954.

Father Dandelet's first appointment was Parochial Vicar for St. Felix, Wabasha. From 1956 to 1967, he became the Parochial Vicar for St. Stanislaus in Winona, Instructor for Cotter High School, Parochial Vicar for Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Easton, Parochial Vicar for St. Joseph in Owatonna, Parochial Administrator for Holy Cross in Dakota and Assistant Editor for the Courier in the Diocese of Winona. In 1967, he became Pastor of Sacred Heart in Hayfield and Our Lady of Loretto in Brownsdale and carried on to Pastor for St. Joseph

A senior at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Mr. Anderson grew up in Mapleton, MN with his mother, Becky, father, Lex and one younger brother, Ben. Mr. Anderson says he had an excellent childhood: "They are very supportive of me and are not only my family, but my best friends."

Anderson has not always wanted to be a priest. He said, "I have thought and prayed about being a priest for some time, but I hadn't always known I wanted to be a priest."

"The seed of vocation really got planted when I was in high school," Anderson said, "I had a lot of support from family and friends. My pastor, Fr. Tim Biren, my confirmation sponsor, Jason Klein,

Rev. Will Thompson Director my Mom and Dad, and my spiritual director at the time, Fr. Thomas Cook, really were the people who helped plant the seed of vocation for me."

Most recently he received support from the community at the Christian Brothers at De La Salle high school.

"God's vision for me is to be a faithful man. To be prayerful and to serve Him throughout my life. He has asked me to share the message of Jesus Christ with others through a religious vocation and that has begun by studying in the seminary for the priesthood."

Operation Andrew Dinners "Come, and you will see."

all dinners begin at 5:30pm

November 4

in Rushford and St. Mary in Houston. His last assignments were as Pastor for St. Martin in Woodstock and St. Mary in Lake Wilson to Pastor for St. Patrick in LeRoy and St. Finbarr in Grand Meadow. Survivors include many nieces and nephews.

Sister Jean Schulte

Sister Jean Schulte (Sister Lea), 87, a Franciscan Sister of the Congregation of Our Lady of Lourdes, Rochester, MN, died at Assisi Heights on Sunday, September 16, 2012.

Elizabeth Jean Schlte was born September 6, 1925 to August T. and Agnes (Leary) Schulte in Caledonia, MN. She entered the Sisters of St. Francis in 1945, made her first vows in 1947 and final vows in 1950.

After her first vows, she began a career in health care. From 1963 to 1968 Sister founded the School of Nursing at Javeriana University, Bogota, Colombia.

For the next five years, she was in Guatamala.

She served in several areas from Colombia to Rochester, MN to Aurora, IL to Anoka, MN to Rossville, TN to Albuquerque, NM before returning to Assisi Heights in 2006.

Sister Jean is survived by a brother Paul Schulte; a sister, Eleanor (Dr. Leonard) Pawlikowskli; several neices,

at The Basilica of St. Stanislaus, Winona

at St. John Vianney, Fairmont

at St. John the Evangelist, Rochester

November 25 January 27

These dinners are an opportunity for pastors to bring young men out for an evening of fellowship, prayer and to hear priests' vocation stories.

Please consider joining us!

For more information, please contact Fr. Will Thompson: (651) 380-6512 or email: wthompson@dow.org nephews and her Franciscan Sisters. Her parents, a brother, Leo Schulte; two sisters: Lorraine Collins, Helen CuhelWhite preceded her in death

Sister Alice Marie Burns

Sister Alice Marie Burns, 97, a Franciscan Sister of the Congregation of Our Lady of Lourdes, died at Assisi Heights on Thursday, September 13.

Mary Margaret Burns was born December 14, 1914 to John and Anna (Keely) Burns in Janesville, MN. Mary Margaret graduated from the College of St. Teresa in 1936 with a B.A. in Social Science and Latin.

She later received a degree in Library Science at Mankato State University (1938) and studied English at the University of Minnesota. She spent 26 years teaching in Rollingstone, Kellogg, and Slayton, MN before

entering the Sisters of St. Francis in 1963 from St. Ann Parish, Janesville, MN and received the name Sister Alice Marie. She made her first vows in 1966, final vows in 1969. After first vows she taught in Caledonia, MN (1966-1968) and then in Columbus, OH, 1968-1973.

From 1973 until retirement in 1986, Sr. Alice Marie worked at St. Mary's Hospital. She continued to live at St. Mary's Hospital Convent serving as a patient visitor, a member of the hospital Auxiliary and as a Librarian at St. John's School, Rochester.

She moved to Assisi Heights in 2002. Sr. Alice Marie is survived by a sister-in-law; several nieces and nephews as well as her Franciscan Congregation with whom she shared life for fortynine years. Her parents and her brother, Matthew J. Burns preceded her in death.

November 2012

In this Issue The Our Father

Summary of the Entire Gospel More on YOF page 3

New Feminism Endow Spotlight

Registering & "Mommy Wars" More on YOF page 4

Ask a Canon Lawyer What's the difference between anullment and divorce?"

More on YOF page 3

Year of Faith Special Edition Insert of The Courier

Year of Faith 2012 - 2013

The Second Vatican Ecumenical Council

By Msgr. Donald P. Schmitz

Many of us remember the excitement when Pope John XXIII announced his desire to have an ecumenical council. I was a sophomore at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Winona in January of 1959 when the Pope made the announcement. The word “ecumenical” meant there would be an effort toward Christian unity, and the study on liturgical practices before the Council of Trent meant there'd be discussion on that too. Beyond that, it remained to be seen what the Council would bring.

Three and a half years later the Council opened on October 11, 1962. Being a student in Rome in those days, I was in St. Peter's Square as the Pope convened the Council and the more than 2500 bishops processed into St. Peter's Basilica. It was a beautiful, memorable day.

Those bishops came from all the continents. The color of their skin and the shape of their headpieces indicated that this was indeed ecumenical, world-wide. The bishops were gathering under the leadership of the Holy Father, the Bishop of Rome.

They were gathering to study, to dialogue and to give direction to the Church.

That morning we heard Pope John XXIII's opening address, restating the vision he had for the Council. He

was the presence of Catholic lay persons who were invited to attend and give input.

The Council went through four sessions—in the fall of the years, 1962 – 1965.

The resulting constitutions, decrees, and declarations are the flowering of the efforts on the part of the Council Fathers under the leadership of the Holy F a t h e r .

Those documents flesh out the idea and ideals One view of the gathering at Vatican II. with which and of opening windows in the Pope John XXIII started. His Church. True to the constant successor Pope Paul VI, contradition of the Church's 2000 tinued in that line, as can year history, she was to con- be seen from his address at the final session: “The Church tinue renewing herself.

Previously there had been felt the need to know, to draw 19 ecumenical councils. They near to, to understand, to had usually been called to penetrate, to serve and evanaddress an error involving gelize the society in which she something or someone. This lives.”

The first major work council would be different; it did not have a specific error was the Constitution on to combat. Its focus would be the Liturgy (Sacrosanctum reaching out to the world and Concilium), issued December its people. The Church is part 4, 1963. We know it from the of the world; the world and changes in the Mass: the use of the vernacular language, the Church help each other.

Another contrast with pre- the altar turned around, and vious councils was the fact the priest facing the congrethat representatives of other gation. Those are the exterChristian denominations and nals, and they are just part of other religions were invited to the renewal of the Church's attend and their observations way of worshiping. The desire sought. Equally important which lay beneath that call

for change and which gave it direction is contained in the oft repeated goal of “full, conscious and active participation of the faithful” (in the worship of the Church).

One year later, November 21, 1964, the Constitution on the Church was issued (Lumen Gentium). By describing the Church as the People of God, the Council Fathers proclaimed the equality of all baptized members of the Church and balanced that image of the Church with her hierarchical nature.

The Constitution on the Church in the Modern World (Gaudium et Spes) was the final teaching from the Council. Its opening words echo the original desire of the two Popes to speak to the people of the world. “The joy and hope, the grief and anguish of the men of our time, especially of those who are poor or afflicted in any way, are the joy and hope, the grief and anguish of the followers of Christ as well.”

In all, we have sixteen conciliar documents or teachings from the Second Vatican Council. After fifty years, there is still a lot that can be learned, still a great deal of wisdom that can be gleaned.

I hope you will take advantage of the opportunities to review them during this Year of Faith that Pope Benedict XVI has declared and which has already begun.

and enables us to bear life-giving witness: indeed, it opens the hearts and minds of those who listen to respond to the Lord’s invitation to adhere to his word and become his disciples.

Believers, so Saint Augustine tells us, “strengthen themselves by believing”.[12] The saintly Bishop of Hippo had good reason to express himself in this way.

As we know, his life was a continual search for the beauty of the faith until such time as his heart would find rest in God.[13] His extensive writings, in which he explains

8. On this happy occasion, I wish to invite my brother bishops from all over the world to join the Successor of Peter, during this time of spiritual grace that the Lord offers us, in recalling the precious gift of faith. We want to celebrate this Year in a worthy and fruitful manner. Reflection on the faith will have to be intensified, so as to help all believers in Christ to acquire a more conscious and vigorous adherence to the Gospel, especially at a time of profound change such as humanity is currently Holy Father, cont. on next page

believed the Holy Spirit wanted the Church to open its doors to the world. The time had come for the church to speak directly to the modern world, offering it the Gospel message of hope and peace.

He spoke of the “signs of the times,” of “aggiornamento,”

From the Holy Father ... Porta Fidei Part 2 of excerpts from "Porta Fidei" by Pope Benedict XVI. mandate that is ever new.

Today too, there is a need 7. “Caritas Christi for stronger ecclesial commiturget nos” (2 Cor 5:14): ment to new evangelization in it is the love of Christ order to rediscover the joy of that fills our hearts believing and the enthusiasm for communicating the faith. and impels us to evanIn rediscovering his love gelize. Today as in the past, day by day, the missionary he sends us through the high- commitment of believers ways of the world to proclaim attains force and vigour that his Gospel to all the peoples can never fade away. Faith of the earth (cf. Mt 28:19). grows when it is lived Through his love, Jesus Christ as an experience of love attracts to himself the people received and when it is of every generation: in every communicated as an expeage he convokes the Church, rience of grace and joy. It entrusting her with the proc- makes us fruitful, because it lamation of the Gospel by a expands our hearts in hope

the importance of believing and the truth of the faith, continue even now to form a heritage of incomparable riches, and they still help many people in search of God to find the right path towards the “door of faith”.

Only through believing, then, does faith grow and become stronger; there is no other possibility for possessing certitude with regard to one’s life apart from selfabandonment, in a continuous crescendo, into the hands of a love that seems to grow constantly because it has its origin in God.

Calendar Of Events

2 - Year of Faith, November 2012

Events in the Diocese for the Year of Faith

Color Key: General Youth Adults School Teachers/ Catechists

November 3, 2012: Together in Ministry program on Vatican II. First session, Alverna Center, Winona CONTACT: Todd Graff, Office of Lay Ministry, tgraff@dow.org November 17-18, 2012: Diocesan Catholic Youth ConferenceFitzgerald Middle School, Mankato CONTACT: Ben Frost, Office of Youth and Young Adults, bfrost@ dow.org December 12, 2012: Closing of the Year of Faith Essay Contest January 19, 2013: Together in Ministry program on Vatican II. Second session, Alverna Center, Winona CONTACT: Todd Graff January 21, 2013: Diocesan “Together in Faith” program for Catholic school teachers and administrators (Rochester).

Announcement of Essay Contest winners.

CONTACT: Marsha Stenzel, Office of Catholic Education, mstenzel@dow.org January 23-27, 2013: March for Life/ Pilgrimage to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. CONTACT: Peter Martin,

Office of Life, pmartin@dow.org or Ben Frost, bfrost@dow.org

January 27 - Feb. 3, 2013: Catholic Schools Week. Prizes awarded to winners of Year of Faith Essay contest.

CONTACT: Marsha Stenzel February 17, 2013: Rite of Election for RCIA. CONTACT: Sr. Mary Juanita Gonsalves, RSM, Office of Faith

Formation, faithformation@dow.org

March 1-11, 2013: Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes and Fatima CONTACT: Corporate Travel Services, Inc., (313) 565-8888 March 4-5, 2013: Lenten Retreat Days for Faith Formation, Youth Ministry and Catholic School administrators, with Fr. James

Kubicki, S.J., Sites TBD CONTACT: Sr. Mary Juanita Gonsalves RSM

March 16, 2013: Diocesan Women’s night with Vicki Thorn, Site TBD CONTACT: Theresa Martin: endow@ dow.org March 23, 2013: Together in Ministry program on Vatican II. Third session,

E vent of the M onth Catechetical Day Reflection

The Diocese of Winona celebrated the opening of the Year of Faith at St. Theodore Catholic Church in Albert Lea on Friday October 12th.

Around 600 people from throughout the Diocese gathered for Mass and an educational convocation focusing on the key elements of the Year of Faith: the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the Second Vatican Council. The goal for the Catechetical Day was to begin the journey of faith for the Year of Faith. The participants included priests, deacons, sisters, parish ministers, catechists, RCIA team leaders, Catholic school teachers, teachers of natural family planning, and interested laity from the Diocese of Winona.

Mr. Sean Kennedy, Principal of St. Theodore’s School, and Sister Mariana Koonce, RSM who has been director of Faith Formation for the Diocese over the past year, welcomed the participants.Bishop John M. Quinn, then, formally opened the event by celebrating the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass along with priests and deacons from the diocese. Father John Sauer, Diocesan Director of Divine Worship, included music from various periods of the Church’s history as a reminder that this ancient faith has been

expressed in many ways. Mr. Sebastian Modarelli from St. John the Evangelist wrote a psalm setting for the occasion. The presence of the Knights of Columbus further added to the solemnity of the Mass.

In his homily, Bishop Quinn encouraged the faithful to live the faith they have been given.

Referring to Pope Benedict XVI’s Apostolic Letter for the Year of Faith, Porta Fidei, he asked that the faithful enter through the “door of faith” and renew their faith in all areas of their life in the midst of a secular culture. Following the Mass, Bishop Quinn led the gathering in an examination of the Nicene Creed, its historical development and a summary of its content as the foundation of the Catholic Faith.

Bishop Quinn’s homily and presentation on the Creed is available online at www.dow.org.

Dr. Greg Sobolewski of St.

Alverna Center, Winona CONTACT: Todd Graff

April 4-5, 2013: Theology of the Body for Teens facilitator training.

Site TBD. CONTACT: Ben Frost April 12, 2013: Diocesan “Together in Faith” program for Catholic school teachers and administrators (Mankato) CONTACT: Marsha Stenzel

Mary’s University presented on the Second Vatican Council. He emphasized that, in the end, the Council should be interpreted in light of the 2000 years of Catholic Tradition and though controversies exist, the essential elements of the Catholic faith studied by the Council remain the same.

Finally, Sr. Johanna Paruch, FSGM from the Franciscan University of Steubenville after discussing the theological importance of the content of the faith that is taught, provided practical ways of teaching the faith. She emphasized the importance of trying different methods of transmitting the faith and being aware of the context in which the teaching occurs.

At the end of the event, the participants left with Year of Faith gift bags prepared by Deacon Mike Ellis and staff at St. Theodore’s parish.

The Diocese of Winona wishes to thank Deacon Mike and the parish staff for all of their tremendous work in making this event successful. We also thank the musicians and choir members who contributed their talents to the Mass.

Please visit the Diocese of Winona Year of Faith web page for photos and videos of Catechetical Day and more information on events, news, programs and more! www.dow.org

April 27, 2013: Together in Ministry program on Vatican II. Final session, Alverna Center, Winona CONTACT: Todd Graff July 19-30, 2013: World Youth Day Pilgrimage for the Diocese of Winona to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

CONTACT: Ben Frost August 12-15, 2013: Junior High Catholic Summer Camp at Eagle Bluff in Lanesboro CONTACT: Ben Frost August 26, 2013: Catechetical Day 2013 CONTACT: Sr. Mary Juanita Gonsalves, RSM October 11-12, 2013: Journey Through Scripture facilitator training program.

Saint Paul Theological Institute.

Site TBD. CONTACT: Sr. Mary Juanita Gonsalves, RSM November 24, 2013: Official Closing of the Year of Faith for the Universal Church

Holy Father, cont. from YOF special edition pg. 1

experiencing. We will have the opportunity to profess our faith in the Risen Lord in our cathedrals and in the churches of the whole world; in our homes and among our families, so that everyone may feel a strong need to know better and to transmit to future generations the faith of all times.

Religious communities as well as parish communities, and all ecclesial bodies old and new, are to find a way, during this Year, to make a public profession of the Credo.

9. We want this Year to arouse in every believer the aspiration to profess the faith in fullness and with renewed conviction, with confidence and hope.

It will also be a good opportunity to intensify the celebra-

tion of the faith in the liturgy, especially in the Eucharist, which is “the summit towards which the activity of the Church is directed; ... and also the source from which all its power flows.”[14] At the same time, we make it our prayer that believers’ witness of life may grow in credibility. To rediscover the content of the faith that is professed, celebrated, lived and prayed,[15] and to reflect on the act of faith, is a task that every believer must make his own, especially in the course of this Year.

Not without reason, Christians in the early centuries were required to learn the creed from memory. It served them as a daily prayer not to forget

the commitment they had undertaken in baptism. With words rich in meaning, Saint Augustine speaks of this in a homily on the redditio symboli, the handing over of the creed: “the symbol of the holy mystery that you have all received together and that today you have recited one by one, are the words on which the faith of Mother Church is firmly built above the stable foundation that is Christ the Lord. You have received it and recited it, but in your minds and hearts you must keep it ever present, you must repeat it in your beds, recall it in the public squares and not forget it during meals: even when your body is asleep, you must watch over it with your hearts.”[16]

PORTA FIDEI - Questions for Study and Reflection:

(Answers will be found in next month’s Courier.)

1. What do Pope Benedict (and St. Augustine) mean by the phrase, “Believers strengthen themselves by believing?” (#7) 2. Consider the following passage: “To rediscover the content of the faith that is professed, celebrated, lived and prayed, and to reflect on the act of faith, is a task that every believer must make his own, especially in the course of this Year.” (#9) a. How does the phrase “professed, celebrated, lived and prayed” relate to the Catechism of the Catholic Church? b. What does the pope mean when he refers to the “act of faith?”

Questions for Prayer and Action:

1. How can I “celebrate this Year [of Faith] in a worthy and fruitful manner?” (#8) 2. Pope Benedict desires that “believers’ witness of life may grow in credibility.” (#9) How do I need to “grow in credibility” in how I live as a Catholic?

(Answers for October's Questions found on YOF page 4.)

The Truth of Our Faith

The Lord's Prayer:

Summary of the Whole Gospel

By Sr. Mary Juanita Gonsalves, RSM In the last Year of Faith insert, we used the Catechism of the Catholic Church to study the reason we have the Our Father and how it developed. With the knowledge that the Lord entrusted the Our Father to his disciples and to the Church, we reflect on how this prayer is more than just a prayer; it is the summary of the whole gospel.

Why do we pray?

If you have ever had the experience of praying in a group, you would soon notice that every person has prayer intentions depending on their particular circumstances.

Some might know a family member battling cancer, while another may be trying to find a job. We bring these prayers to Our Lord, since He, himself, said, “Ask and you will receive.”1 Ultimately, as humans, we are all seeking happiness.

We often hear that happiness comes from a high paying job or with perfect health.

But Christ, in the Beatitudes, taught us a different way of life. The Beatitudes reveal that our desire for happiness is fully met by seeking God.2 Saint Augustine said, “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in

1. Vatican II presented a renewed vision of what it means to be the Church.

The Council document Lumen Gentium on the nature of the Church called the Church a light for the world and the source of salvation. The document Gaudium et Spes on the Church in the modern world said the Church shares the joys and sufferings of the world. Both documents refer to the Church as the People of God, reflecting a new appreciation of lay people that surfaced repeatedly at the Council.

2. It called the Eucharist the source and summit of the faith. The Council’s document on the liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium, describes Holy Communion as the main source of God’s grace for Catholics. In the Eucharist, Catholics encounter the person of Christ. In this way, it is truly the foun-

Ask a

Canon Lawyer

“The Our Father is more than By Mr. William Daniel a prayer—it is a path that 3 you.” At the center of the leads directly into the heart Q: " Why is it okay to get an annulment for your marriage, but not okay Beatitudes is surrendering of our Father.” Youcat #514 to get a divorce? Isn’t that the same thing??" one’s self to God in humility.

Without sanctifying grace, prayers [in Scripture], and A: Civil divorce is the merely of consent, proven beyond a this is not possible. How then I do not think that you will legal dissolution of the mar- reasonable doubt.

This essentially entails do we “ask” to “receive” the find anything in them that is riage contract recognized by gift of happiness? We read in not contained and included the State between spouses. getting into the mind of the the Catechism that “[Jesus] in the Lord’s Prayer.”5 This In the current system of “no spouses at the time of their teaches us to ask for it by our is because, as the Second fault divorce,” a divorce can wedding to see what they prayer.”4 Vatican Council6 reminds be obtained for no compelling intended and what they were us, Jesus Christ completely reason at all, at the request of capable of committing to, which is a very difficult thing reveals God’s divine plan one of the spouses. for us. Therefore, the Lord’s As a rule, divorce is con- to do. Very often, when people Prayer “is truly the summary sidered seriously immoral, get married, they truly want of the whole gospel.”7 The since it divides the family to get married and have at Holy Spirit helps us bring our and causes instability in soci- least the minimum ability to desires to God by praying this ety, often at the expense of do so. prayer.8 Unlike divorce, therefore, the innocent (children). The Like a true Father, God the declaration of nullity of a knows our life circumstances Church does, however, recog- marriage is not guaranteed; and needs. To help us ask for nize some situations in which a petition for one may be the gifts particular to one’s divorce is morally permissidenied. When a marriage is situation in life, Jesus gives ble, such as when it is necesdeclared null, the spouses are sary to care for children or us the words that will reach considered free—before God protect certain legal rights or the Father’s heart. In the life inheritance. She also recog- and the Church—to marry of the Church, we see how “Journey to Emmaus,” crafted by as if for the first time, since Sister Marie-Paul Farran, O.S.B. these gifts are given to us, nizes that one spouse may be especially through the sacra- the innocent victim of divorce they never really created an How does the Lord teach ments. In the next article, we when abandoned by the other unbreakable marriage bond.

So, divorce may or may not will reflect more on how this (see Catechism of the Catholic us to prayer? prayer is a central prayer of be morally permitted, based Church, nn. 2382-2386).

There are many different the Church. on why it is sought; however, So, divorce may or may ways to prayer. For example, 1Matthew 7: 7 it does not change the spousone can pray the psalms in not be okay in a given case.

2Catechism of the Catholic Church #1718 es’ marital status before God times of thanksgiving and 3 However, regardless of the St. Augustine's Confessions, Book 1, and in the Church. On the distress. Jesus taught his cause of divorce, it never Ch. 1 other hand, spouses may have disciples to pray with the 4CCC #2764 makes spouses free to marry Our Father. Saint Augustine 5CCC #2762 their marriage declared null again before God and the speaks of the importance of 6Dei Verbum 12 #4; CCC #111 and marry another person, Church. “What God has the Our Father, “Run through 7CCC #2761 joined, no man can divide” because the Church, in such all the words of the holy 8CCC #2765 (Matt. 19:6), and this includes cases, recognizes the truth the spouses and even the about the non-existence of the marriage bond.

State.

A declaration of the nullity of marriage by the Church— Mr. William Daniel is a commonly called an “annulcanon lawyer of the Diocese of ment”—is a completely differWinona, serving as a Tribunal ent thing. A marriage is only Judge and Vice-Chancellor. If dation of the Church. family that provides a strong declared null if it is proven you have a canon law question 3. It reformed the liturgy. foundation for each believer. that the consent of one or both which may be considered in The changes to the Mass, 6. It reshaped the Church’s spouses was invalid at the perhaps the most well-known relationship with other moment it was made (at the a future issue, you may send conciliar reform, promoted Christians and other reli- wedding). It is based not on them to the Associate Editor “full and active participation,” gions. At Vatican II, the fault but on a serious defect at tmartin@dow.org. which led to the Mass being Church adopted a spirit of translated into the vernacu- respect and dialogue toward made at the appropriate level. renewed appreciation for lar, and celebrated as a dia- other faith traditions. 8. It updated the Church… Scripture, the Church Fathers logue between the celebrant Ensuing dialogues have built John XXIII saw Vatican II and the restoration of ancient and the congregation. bridges of understanding and as a chance for renewal in traditions such as the perma4. It said every Catholic is strengthened relationships the face of the “signs of the nent diaconate and the multicalled to holiness and to with Orthodox Christians, times” and said he called the step process for adults joining be a missionary. The docu- Jews, Muslims, Protestants Council to open a window and the Church. ment on missionary activity, and others. let in fresh air. This result- 10. Then-Father Joseph Ad Gentes, expanded the view 7. It promoted collabora- ed in reforms that made the Ratzinger (now Pope of how the Church evangeliz- tion. The document Christus Church more accessible to Benedict XVI) played a es. Missionaries were no lon- Dominus encouraged “col- the modern world, such as significant behind-theger sent just to remote areas legiality,” or collaboration Mass in the vernacular and scenes role. The bishops at to spread the Good News; now within the Church. Bishops, dialogue with other believ- Vatican II were assisted by all Catholics play an evange- priests, religious and lay peo- ers, and the openness of the brilliant theologians. These lizing role through their lives. ple all work together in a Council was reflected in the assistants, or periti, included 5. It emphasized the way that didn’t in the past. presence men and women Joseph Ratzinger, who assistimportance of the family. Bishops collaborate through religious, lay people and even ed Cardinal Josef Frings of According to Lumen Gentium, episcopal conferences like the non-Catholics among its offi- Cologne, Germany. Father Ratzinger was involved in the family is the “Domestic U.S. Conference of Catholic cial observers.

Church.” While the faith of Bishops and state-level 9. …but it also returned drafting speeches, shapthe Church flourishes in par- Catholic Conferences. The the Church to its roots. ing documents and defining ishes, dioceses and nations Council also encouraged “sub- Vatican II also reformed the the overall trajectory of the around the world, before all sidiarity,” by which authority Church through a back-to- Council. else is the family. It is the is divided up and decisions basics approach. This meant www.usccb.org

10 Ways Vatican II Shapes the Church Today

By Archbishop Gregory Aymond of New Orleans

Year of Faith, November 2012 - 3

4 - Year of Faith, November 2012

Living Our Faith in Society

No "Mommy Wars" !

By Theresa Martin, Endow Coordinator, Endow@dow.org Sometimes in women's magazines, you will see a division between stay-at-home moms and working moms.

This is referred to as "Mommy wars." They compare, contrast and try to prove whose way is better. In our Catholic life, we want to seek to understand each other in love. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that “to avoid rash judgment, everyone should be careful to interpret as possible his neighbor’s thoughts, words, and deeds in a favorable way” (#2478). The Endow curriculum of Letter

to Women, page 58, explains how Bl. John Paul II supported both types of motherhood: "The Holy Father does not specifically insist that one lifestyle is preferable to the other; however, he is quite clear that relationships are paramount. We must take care never to sacrifice the welfare of thoses who are most vulnerable (the unborn, small dependent children, the infirm elderly) on the altar of personal ambition and material gain. That said, many working women are able to manage their responsibilities

very well, with the help of supportive spouses, family, and close friends. Many stayat-home mothers take satisfaction in being able to devote themselves unreservedly to their children and homes.

Christian charity encourages us to support, rather than

subvert, one another's efforts to live out our vocations."

Let us avoid judgment and instead seek first to understand rather than be understood, as St. Francis of Assisi reminds us.

Theresa Martin blogs at NewFeminismRising.com Some ladies have been having trouble signing up with a group, so let me take you step by step. (Also, please note that more groups will be beginning in December and January. So, if you don't see a group in your area just yet - check back soon!)

Step 1: go to www.endowgroups.org

Step 2: Click on the box that says "Join A Group" Step 3: Double-click on the State of Minnesota on the map.

Step 4: Click on "Letter to Women - MN" (do not click on the Letter to Women Facilitator Training)

The Office of Faith

Formation

Sr. Mary Juanita Gonsalves, RSM Director faithformation@dow.org

Step 5:

Find a group near you and "Add to Cart" to join!

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me!

PORTA FIDEI - ANSWERS to October's Questions:

1. “Door of faith” (Porta fidei) is a quote from Acts 14:27. Read Acts 14:19-28. What is the context for this phrase “door of faith”? The phrase “door of faith” is found at the end of a section of the Acts of the Apostles in which St. Paul and St. Barnabas have concluded one of their missionary journeys. In this journey they were thrown out of one city and Paul was stoned and left for dead in another city. They then continued on to many other cities, proclaiming the Gospel, strengthening believers and anointing presbyters.

At the end, they return to Antioch where they started and are able to praise God for opening the door of faith to the Gentiles.

2. What are Pope Benedict’s reasons for calling a Year of Faith? Pope Benedict gives a number of reasons for the Year of Faith: the current crisis of faith (#2), the need to rediscover the journey of faith (#1), the need to shed clearer light on the joy of an encounter with Christ (#1) are among them.

3. What are the dates of the Year of Faith and what are their significance? The Year of Faith opens on the October 11, 2012 which is the 50th anniversary of the opening of the Second Vatican Council and the 30th anniversary of the publication of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The Year of Faith closes on the Solemnity of Christ the King, which closes the liturgical year. By choosing these dates, Pope Benedict is indicating the priorities for the Year of Faith: the content of the faith as compiled in the Catechism of the Catholic Church and the rediscovery of the documents of the Second Vatican Council. Since faith ultimately leads us leads us to an encounter with Christ, it is fitting to close the Year on the Solemnity of Christ the King.

4. What are Pope Benedict’s goals for the Year of Faith? In this section of Porta Fidei, Pope Benedict gives a number of goals for the Year of Faith: right interpretation of Vatican II (#5), conversion to the Lord (#6), renewal of the Church (#6). You will discover more as you read the remainder of the document. Pay particular attention to paragraph #9.

Ideas for Celebrating t h e Ye a r o f F a i t h !

For Adults: - Buy a Catechism or start a CCC class in your parish!

- Go to Mass every Sunday! (& daily Mass if you can!)

- Go to Confession during Advent and Lent!

- Make a Pilgrimage - Pray the Act of Faith every day!

- Volunteer in your parish!

- Read Pope Benedict's Wednesday audience or Angelus message every week.

For Couples: - Read Scripture or the Catechism together daily!

- Attend Mass every SUNDAY! - Go to Confession together - Make a pilgrimage!

- Pray an Act of Faith every day!

- Pray the Rosary regularly!

- Go to a Natural Family Planning class!

- Go on a Marriage Retreat together!

For Families: - Read the Catechism & Bible with your family!

- Go to Mass every Sunday as a Family!

- Go to Confession together as a family!

- Make a family pilgrimage together one Sunday.

- Pray an Act of Faith every day at breakfast!

- Volunteer as a family at your parish.

- Pray the Rosary together regularly!

For Youth: - Ask your parents for YouCat! and Read it!

- Go to Mass every Sunday!

- Go to Confession during Advent & Lent!

- Go to Diocesan Youth Events!

- Say your Act of Faith every day!

Act of Faith

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

Catholic Charities adds therapist in Mankato

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Winona announces the addition of Kristine Madsen MSW, LICSW to the Mankato office of Catholic Charities. Kristine offers therapeutic counseling services to indiviuals and families of all faiths with a wide range of concerns (including relationship problems, depession, anxiety, mental health issues and more). She has a Bachelor of Science and a Masters in Social Work.

The counseling services may be covered by insurance. A sliding fee scale for individuals and families who do not have insurance coverage.

For more information on Kristine’s Madsen’s services or to schedule an appointment, call (507) 387-5586.

For information about all of the services of Catholic Charities, please visit www.ccwinona.org.

CATHOLIC EDUCATION

The Courier, November 2012 - 7

Meet Our Catholic Schools Loyola Catholic School, Mankato

By Shelley Schultz Loyola High School began in 1908 and evolved as the parish elementary schools, Fitzgerald Middle School, and Loyola High School consolidated into one system, Mankato Area Catholic Schools Inc, in 1990. In 2006 our school system continued on its journey when we were renamed Loyola Catholic School, a K-12 school on two campuses. Today we continue to be supported by four parishes: Holy Rosary, St John the Baptist, SS Peter and Paul and St Joseph the Worker, as well as the School Sisters of Notre Dame.

Currently Loyola Catholic School consists of 562 students in grades K-12 and 74 students in preschool. Our school is built on the pillars of faith, service, academic excellence and leadership. God is the center of all we do. We welcome students of all backgrounds and are proud of our diversity as new families “discover the difference” when they walk our halls and see our Catholic presence, sense our family spirit, experience our atmosphere of respect, review our curriculum and look at our test scores.

Loyola Catholic School strives to “raise the standard” in many areas especially our prayer life and living of the Gospel of Jesus; in communication to parents; in helping each person grow toward his/ her full potential; in continu-

The Office of

al review of our curriculum; and in our involvement in our local parishes.

2012-2013 brings the continuation of Singapore Math in the elementary grades, foreign language for the middle school students and the beginning of on-line learning at the high school.

System wide we are exploring Professional Learning Communities and engaging in 21st century teaching/learning by using wikis, flipped classrooms, Smart Boards, ipads, a one-to-one laptop program and other technology tools. We also continue to work toward connecting our Catholic Identity to our strategic plan with AdvanceEd Worldwide Accreditation.

Service is at the heart of Loyola Catholic School. We are proud to be named the First Fair Trade school in Minnesota and the second in the nation. Gospel values and the principles of Catholic social justice come alive when students know they are helping others through the promotion of Fair Trade and other local and global outreach projects.

Every day, on both campuses and in every classroom we start our day with prayer grounded in our heritage and reaching into our future: Our Lady of Good Counsel, counsel and direct us; Saint Ignatius of Loyola, pray for us; Blessed Theresa of Jesus Gerhardinger, pray for us.

A special message from the Ladies of WDCCW: We want to congratulate our Spiritual Advisor, Monsignor Tom Hargesheimer, for receiving the Papal Honor of Reverend Monsignor.

It is an honor that is well deserved. We would also like to congratulate him, as well as his parishioners, for the elevation of St. Stanislaus Kostka to the level of a Minor Basilica. This project is one that took a great deal of time, care and love, things that we know "Monsignor Tom" has in abundance.

We as the Winona Diocesan Council of Catholic Women are very proud to have him as our spiritual advisor, mentor and friend.

All Saints Catholic School Madison Lake

By Jim Theuninck

The “Little Red School House” ” as we refer to our school building at All Saints boasts an amazing educational system for our students. The school has been in operation since 1907 teaching grades K-12, and today the same building houses Little Saints Daycare with an enrollment of 58 children.

We have wonderful faculty and staff that are committed to educating our students in a Christian environment in pursuit of academic excellence. We continue to monitor the progress of our children during these most formative years, making sure that commitment to excellence has been attained. From the comments we receive from parents whose children have graduated from All Saints, we are accomplishing this goal.

We are very proud of our technology and equipment

that we are able to provide for our students and staff.

Our Principal, Father Robert Schneider, contributes endless enthusiasm and excitement for our educational system.

Father Schneider has provided a great media center, Smart Boards in every classroom, and the latest in curriculum for our teachers.

Because of the generous support from our All Saints Parish members, our children have the latest in outdoor recreation equipment and playground toys that promote learning while playing. We at All Saints School are also very proud of our Food Service Director, Kathie Ulmen, who provides everyone with healthy, nutritious,

Catholic Education Marsha Stenzel Director mstenzel@dow.org

and the most tasty meals available.

Madison Lake and the surrounding communities, and most importantly, the All Saints Parish community, have been, and continue to be very supportive of the cause of All Saints School, making continued success stories happen year after year. With our parents’ unselfish, caring, giving, and helping hands we can state that All Saints School is rated as “One of the Best in the Area.”

8 -The Courier, November 2012

YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS

March for Life Trip Continues to Grow Last January the Diocese of Winona took a leap of faith and organized a trip to Washington D.C. for the national March for Life event.

We sent just one bus with groups of youth and young adults from around the Diocese, and the experience was absolutely profound. This year, the word is spreading, and the growth of this event is quite apparent.

We currently have two buses booked for the trip, and a third is beginning to fill! It is a blessing to see

these fruits, and we invite you to consider joining us.

We’ve capped the trip at three buses, and we have a limited number of spaces available.

There is still time to sign up for the March for Life, but we need commitments soon.

I invite you to consider this life changing experience. Please visit: http:// www.dow.org/Departments/ YouthandYoungAdults.aspx for more information.

Please pray for the success of the 2013 March for LifeWashington, DC experience.

The Office of Youth & Young Adults Bishop Quinn prays with our March For Life group in D.C., January 2012.

Ben Frost Director bfrost@dow.org

8 DAYS ROME & ASSISI PILGRIMAGE MARCH 4 - 11, 2012

Hosted by Fr. Steve Peterson

$2699 PER PERSON from MINNEAPOLIS (Air/land tour price is $2059 plus $640 govt. taxes/airline fuel surcharges)

TOUR INCLUDES:

Roundtrip Air from Minneapolis, $640 Govt. taxes/Airline fuel surcharges, First Class/Select Hotel, Comprehensive Sightseeing with Professional Tour Escort, Most Meals, Admission Fees, Porterage and Hotel Service Charges Tour includes Vatican City Museum & Sistine Chapel, Papal Audience, Major Basilicas, Ancient Rome and Full-day Excursion to Assisi

FOR A BROCHURE AND MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: FR. PETERSON (507) 583-2529 or (507) 273-4916 SPACE IS LIMITED! CALL TODAY!!

Masses of Reparation for sins in the diocese Many parishes throughout the diocese committed to offer consolation to the Heart of Christ through a Mass of

Reparation. At least one Mass will be said every day: Thursday, November 1

9 a.m. Golden Living Center, La Crescent 10:15 a.m. St. Pius X, Rochester Friday, November 2 8:30 a.m. Good Shepherd, Jackson Saturday, November 3

4:30 p.m. St. Felix , Wabasha 5 p.m. St. Bernard, Stewartville Sunday, November 4 9 a.m. St. Casimir, Winona Monday, November 5 8 a.m. St. Bernard, Stewartville 12:10 p.m. St. John the Evangelist, Rochester Tuesday, November 6 8:30 a.m. St. Finbarr, Grand Meadow 8:30 a.m. St. Joseph, Good Thunder

4:30 p.m. Holy Trinity, Rollingstone 5:15 p.m. St. Mary, Worthington Wednesday, November 7 8 a.m. Holy Redeemer, Eyota 8:30 a.m. St. Mary, Ellsworth Thursday, November 8 6:30 p.m. St. James , St. James Friday, November 9 8:30 a.m. Gladdagh House, La

Masses of Repearation, cont. on pg. 9

EVANGELIZATION & APOLOGETICS

The Courier, November 2012 - 9

6th Promise: “Sinners shall find in my Heart the source and Infinite Ocean of mercy”

In this sixth Promise we have two key concepts to investigate: sin and mercy.

To understand mercy we must first understand sin.

When we pray the Hail Mary, we say 'pray for us, sinners."

We recognize that we are sinners, and in need of God’s mercy.

1) What does the acceptance of God’s mercy require from us?

From the Compendium of the Catholic Catechism: (paragraph 391 - 400) "The Acceptance of God’s mercy requires that we admit our faults and repent of our sins.

Not just admit our faults – we must repent for having committed them. God Himself by his Word and his Spirit lays bare our sins and gives us the truth of conscience and the hope of forgiveness."

2) What is sin?

Saint Augustine said sin is “a word, an act, or a desire contrary to the eternal Law.” 3) What is the Eternal Law? The Eternal Law is the very Mind of God as he governs the Universe, which has only one Commandment: good must be done, and evil must be avoided.

4) What is ‘good’, and what is ‘evil’?

Good is whatever agrees with the will of God and evil is whatever disagrees with it. Sin wounds human nature

and injures human solidarity.

This is a general definition of sin. Sins can be distinguished according to their object or according to the virtues or Commandments that they violate. They can directly concern God, neighbor, or ourselves. They can also be divided into sins of thought, of word, of deed, or of omission.

Another important distinction is the division of sin according to their gravity: A distinction is made between mortal and venial sin. One commits a mortal sin when there are simultaneously present: grave matter, full knowledge, and deliberate consent. This sin destroys charity in us, deprives us of sanctifying grace, and, if unrepented, it leads us to the eternal death of hell. It can be forgiven by means of the sacraments of Baptism and of Reconciliation.

One commits a venial sin, when the matter involved is less serious or, when full knowledge or complete consent is absent. Venial sin does not break the Covenant with God but it weakens charity and manifests a disordered affection for created goods. It merits temporal punishment that purifies. Sin engenders vice by repetition of the same

acts.

5) What are vices?

Vices are perverse habits that darken the conscience and incline one to evil. Vices can be linked to the seven capital sins which are: pride, lust, anger, gluttony, usury, envy, and sloth. These are the seven sins that plague our lives. If you find it difficult to remember them, think of the word “plagues”: ‘P’ for Pride, ‘L’ for Lust, ‘A’ for Anger, ‘G’ for Gluttony, ‘U’ for usury, ‘E’ for Envy and ‘S’ for Sloth.

6) Do we have any responsibility for sins committed by others?

Yes, we do have such a responsibility when we culpably cooperate with them.

Whenever we participate in any way in somebody else’s sin, we share in its guilt.

That is why every single sin of abortion is shared by the politician who approved it or who did not fight it. What a responsibility!

7) What are structures of sin?

Structures of sin are social situations or institutions that are contrary to the Divine Law. Can government and Congress be structures of sin?

Yes, they can. They can be this when they use their powers to legislate against God’s Law, such as in the case of legalization of pornography, divorce, prostitution, abor-

tion, euthanasia, stem-cell research with human embryos, wrong teachings in public schools, unbridled freedom of the media, homosexuality, blasphemy, contraception, unnecessary Sunday trading, the whole works!

They are also structures of sin when they support other governments that oppress their own people, like China, with prison labor, one child policy and religious persecution to this day. www.SacredHeartLegion.com

The Office of Evangelization & Apologetics Raymond de Souza Director rdesouza@dow.org

Masses of Reparation cont'd from pg. 8

Crescent 8:30 a.m. Ss. Peter and Paul, Blue Earth 8:30 a..m. St. Joachim, Plainview 9 a.m. Christ the King, Byron Saturday, November 10 10 a.m. St. Casimir, Wells 4 p.m. St. Elizabeth Health Care Center, Wabasha Sunday, November 11 8 a.m. St. Mary, Chatfield 8 a.m. St. James, Twin Lakes Monday, November 12 8:30 a.m. St. Columbanus, Blooming Prairie Tuesday, November 13 8 a.m. Holy Family, Kasson Wednesday, November 14 8:30 a.m. St. Patrick, LeRoy Thursday, November 15 8:30 a.m. St. Joseph, Lakefield Friday, November 16 12:10 p.m. Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona Saturday, November 17 8 a.m. St. Bernard, Stewartville 4:30 p.m. Holy Spirit, Rochester Sunday, November 18 10 a.m. St. Matthew, Vernon Ctr. Tuesday, November 20 8 a.m. St. Peter, Rose Creek

8:30 a.m. Sacred Heart, Hayfield 9 a.m. St. Theodore, Albert Lea Wednesday, November 21 12:10 p.m. Oak Park Place, Albert Lea Thursday, November 22 8:30 a.m. St. Ignatius, Spring Valley 9 a.m. St. Mary of the Lake, Lake City Friday, November 23 8 a.m. St. Aidan, Ellendale Saturday, November 24 4:30 p.m. Holy Spirit, Rochester Sunday, November 25 8:30 a.m. St. Mary, Minneiska 9:30 a.m. St. Patrick, Lanesboro 10 a.m. St. Paul, Minnesota City Tuesday, November 27 7 a.m. St. Charles Borromeo, St. Charles 8:15 a.m. St. John the Baptist, Mankato 8:30 a.m. St. Luke, Sherburn 10 a.m. St. Elizabeth Health Care Center, Wabasha Wednesday, November 28 6:30 p.m.Crucifixion, La Crescent Thursday, November 29 2 p.m. Good Samaritan, Albert Lea

10 - The Courier, November 2012

SOCIAL JUSTICE

November is National Adoption Month

Life is a Gift

You know that life is a gift from God. You also know that the gift often comes at difficult times. We can help precisely at those times. Catholic Charities Mother and Child Assistance Fund helps pregnant women and women with babies with rent, medical expenses, educational assistance, doula services, child care assistance, and parenting education. It helps birthmothers carry their baby to term by providing the direct support they need to work through difficult situations that they and their baby may face.

The Mother and Child Assistance Fund is supported by generous donations. To make a donation send a check to Catholic Charities Mother and Child Assistance Fund, 903 W Center Street Suite 220, Rochester, MN 55902.

Visit our website at www.ccwinona.org for Pregnancy, Parenting and Adoption Information or 1-800-222-5859.

“It’s amazing how what seems like the death of a dream is awakened with one phone call and the words, ‘Your baby’s coming.’”

One Can Never have too Much Love

By Phil and Monica

We have had 3 adoption experiences. While waiting to be chosen for each, we continued to do our normal daily activities. We did not dwell on adoption and certainly did not wait for the phone to ring.

When the calls came, we were excited and nervous at the same time. What if she, the birthmother, didn’t like us?

What would we talk about when meeting her for the first time? But, the thrill of thinking of being a parent overrode all of the nervousness. Our three initial meetings did go well and we left feeling comfortable with whatever decision the birthmother would make.

Becoming parents brought us such joy; there is no other way to describe it. All we knew was that we should try again.

So we got approved for a second adoption when our first little guy was eight months old. We settled back into our new normal routine thinking we wouldn’t get a call for another two to three years, if at all.

Shock is what we felt when we

got a call about six weeks later.

Two little boys within a year’s time gave us quite a surreal feeling. The little ones kept us very busy and it wasn’t until 2+ years later that we thought of adopting again. We figured that if God wanted to bless us with a third child, that’d be great. If not, that was fine too, we had already been blessed twice.

Our third son came to us when the other guys were 4 and 5. Both of them were and still are very proud to be the big and bigger brother. All of our boys love each other so much.

It is so gratifying to see.

We do have open adoptions with all three. It is fun to get together with the birth parents and catch them up on all of the little guys’ activities. Having them in our lives gives our sons more people to love and to be loved by. One can never have too much love.

Adoption for us has been a wonderful experience and the people we have met along the way will forever be in our hearts.

Celebrating the Joy of Adoption!

Date: Saturday November 10th, 2012 Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Potluck lunch, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. - Family Activities Place: Church of the Resurrection

1600 11th Avenue, SE

Rochester, MN RSVP: 507-287-2047 ext.32

Include number of people and age of children attending

The Beauty of Adoption

(cont'd from page 1)

Charities and placed on their adoptive families’ waiting list, we were chosen by a birth mother to parent her newborn baby. This little boy spent one night in our home before his birth mother decided that she had changed her mind and wanted to parent her child.

We were heartbroken and grieved the loss of this child for some time.

Our family, friends, and Catholic Charities social worker helped us through this difficult time and listened to our concerns as we wondered if we were emotionally capable of putting ourselves through another adoption experience. In the end, we knew we wanted to be parents and that God would not give us more than we could handle, so we decided to stay on the waiting list. About nine months later, Ean’s birth mother read the story of our failed adoption in our profile, which prompted her to set up a meeting with us. Ean’s birth parents and grandparents knew how nervous we were going through the process again after our first experience and were so wonderful about constantly reassuring us that they were confident in their decision. We were so

grateful to them for that; it made a very anxious situation much easier!

After struggling through infertility and a failed adoption, it became so apparent to us when Ean was born that we always need to trust in God and know that He does have a plan for us, as others often reminded us during our difficult journey. Parenthood is more than we ever even dreamed. Ean brings endless joy to our days, and we just entered another exciting chapter as Ean started preschool this fall.

We have been on the Catholic Charities adoptive families’ waiting list again for about 2 ½ years, and we

eagerly await finding out what the second installment of God’s plan is for us! The wait is a little easier this time, with Ean occupying our every waking moment. However, as the months and years continue to pass without a second child being brought into our lives, we have to keep reminding ourselves of the happiness that awaits us at the end of this journey, and we keep this saying in our minds: “Everyday holds the possibility of a miracle.” Our first miracle is sitting here playing Lego’s, making us laugh as he always does with his continuous chatter. He is, and always will be, a constant reminder of the beauty of adoption!

Adoption - A Wonderful Way to Build a Family!

Thinking about Adopting?

Want to learn more about Adoption?

Catholic Charities offers Adoption Informational Meetings at its various locations to help families get the answers they need about the adoption process.

Call your local office for more information.

Rochester: 507-287-2047 Winona: 507-454-2270 Mankato: 507-387-5586 Worthington: 507-276-9757

"Waiting was our hardest part. We were actually ready to pull our application one week before we were notified about our son. My husband encouraged me to stay on the waiting list one more year. Thank goodness he did. After the long wait, we received the best Christmas gift and miracle that we could have ever imagined. We got a call from Becky on December 19th that we were blessed with a beautiful son. This call could not have come at a better time!

Christmas miracles do happen, and we are truly blessed! Thank you Catholic Charities, you make dreams come true!" - grateful family

The Courier, November 2012 - 11

IN THE DIOCESE

November Event Calendar Parish and Community Events Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Winona

Fall Festival, Sat. and Sun. Nov. 10 - 11. Silent Auction, Bakery, Chocolate Chances, Pop and Popcorn, Country Store and more! Sat. Booths, Tacos and Sloppy Joes 4 - 8 p.m. Bingo at 7 p.m. Sun. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Breakfast 8 - 10 a.m. ChickenQue 11 a.m. - gone. Big Wheel Raffle from 11:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Call (507) 452-2770 for info.

Holy Family, Kasson

Annual Harvest Dinner on Sunday, November 4. 11 a.m. 1 p.m. Carry-outs are available.

Come and enjoy our delicious roast beef, gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans, squash, buns and Apple crisp for dessert.

Adults $9, Children ages 6-12 $5 and 5 and under FREE. Bake sale and Silent Auction with many baskets to bid on. Mass begins at 10:30 a.m.

Basilica of St. Stanislaus Kostka, Winona

November 17 - 18. "Christian Crossings" will play for the 4 p.m. mass Sat. After mass, quilt raffle, bookstore, Polish coffee cake booth, children's games, bake sale, Harvest blessings Store, Sweet Tooth Booth, and basket booths will be open.

Sun. "Starz" singing group will lead 10 a.m. mass. Events continue from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Pork and Polish sausage dinner from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. $8. Big ticket drawing at 6 p.m. $5,900 in cash prizes.

St. Mary's Church, Winona

Please join us at the Holy Hour for Marriage on Saturday, November 17 at 9 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, 1303 West Broadway, Winona. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed; we will pray a beautiful Marriage Rosary and the Holy Hour will close with Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. Fr. Jim Berning will be our celebrant.

Crucufixion Parish, La Crescent

Christmas Gift and Craft Showcase. Holiday shopping all in one place. Dec. 8, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. FREE Admission. Register to win door prizes. Everything from River View Winery to Herbalife to Scholastic Book Fair to Handmade Jewelry and more! Our school is handicapped accessible. The proceeds will be used to purchase Smartboard technology for our school.

Church of St. John the Evangelist, Rochester

Kraig Windschitl, principal organist at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, Minneapolis (the largest Lutheran congregation in North America), will offer a concert in Rochester on Sunday, N o v e m b e r Kraig Windschitl 11, 2012 at 4:00 pm on the superb organ at the Church of St. John the Evangelist (11 Fourth Ave. SW).

His recital will include works

by Georg Bohem, J.S. Bach, Marcel Dupré, James Biery and John Weaver. Open to the public – free will offering.

St. Augustine Church, Austin

Pacelli Booster Club's Spaghetti Dinner. Wed. Nov. 7, 5 p.m. 7 p.m. Free will donation. At Jennings Hall. Big CASH prize raffle! Call the Pacelli Office to buy tickets. 507-437-3278.

Drawings at 7 p.m.

St. Charles Borromeo Church, St. Charles

Fall Luncheon and Raffle.

Court St. Charles Catholic Daughters of the Americas will host annual Fall Luncheon and Raffle on Sat., Nov. 10 at St. Charles Borromeo Church

Please note: submission deadline is the 15th

Commons Area. Hot turkey meal will be served at 11:30 a.m. Presale luncheon tickets are $9 in advance or $10 at the door. Entertainment will be provided by Liz Dahlen as she shares her thoughts relative to the event theme of "Light up the World with Laughter."

Luncheon and raffle tickets are available from Sandy Larson (507-932-0923).

Council of Catholic Women to Offer GRANT

The Winona Diocesan Council of Catholic Women has decided to offer a Grant to Parishes who are interested in establishing a CCW in their Parish. You will receive with this grant: the NCCW Guidance and Resource Manual ($60 value), 1 Individual NCCW membership which includes the “Catholic Women” Magazine ($75 value), your first years membership dues paid ($100), personal help from the WDCCW Membership Committee, and cash for your treasury of $265 for a grand total of $500 in all to get your council up and running. If your priest or some ladies in your parish are interested in establishing a council, contact membership committee member Bev McCarvel to get an application. Phone 507842-5460 or E-mail bmccarvel@ roundlk.net.

Discernment Day for Single Women

Saturday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. St. Paul, MN. Learn from Mary’s example how to listen and discern. $10 donation includes lunch. Sponsored by School Sisters of Notre Dame.

Contact S. Joyce Kolbet by Nov. 26 to register: 507-389-4296, jkolbet@ssndmankato.org.

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) 698-7443.

Mass for Life & Marriage

St. Mary’s Church, Winona, offers a Mass for Life and Marriage on both the first and third Thursday of the month, at 5:15 p.m. Rosary at 4:50 p.m. prior to the Mass. Call the office at 507-452-5656 for updates.

Day of Renewal with Archbishop Harry Flynn

Sat. Nov. 17, 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Assisi Heights Spirituality Center. This program, “Remain in My Love”, provides a day for reflection on our faith and the liturgical cycle that nurtures our faith. $50 includes presenter, materials, lunch and refreshments. Archbishop Harry Flynn served in the Archdiocese of Saint Paul and Minneapolis from 1995-2008. www.rochesterfranciscan.org or call 507280-2195.

Mom, Dad – Can We Talk?

Family Conversations That Make a Difference

Thurs. Nov. 29 Info booth: 5:306:30 p.m. /Program: 6:30–8 p.m.

Assisi Heights Spirituality Center. This is a program designed for adult children who care about their aging parents and want to “do the right thing,” but they often need support and guidance. Dick Edwards, Mayo Clinic Eldercare Specialist and retired Administrator of Charter House, is the author of Mom, Dad…Can We Talk? Insight and Perspectives to Help Us Do What’s Best for Our Aging Parents. $10 includes presentation and light refreshments. www.rochesterfranciscan.org or call507-280-2195

Health Care in the Franciscan Tradition

Tuesdays: Nov. 6, 13, & 20: 7–9 p.m. Srs. Ramona Miller and Mary Eliot Crowley will facilitate this, authored by Thomas Nairn, OFM, Senior Director of Ethics, Catholic Health Association. Cost of $80 includes online course and three group gatherings at AHSC. Register

by Nov. 1. www.rochesterfranciscan.org or call 507-280-2195.

Traditional Latin Mass Schedule Alpha, St. Alphonsus Liguori, weekly and daily. Sunday: 8 a.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.

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

Thank you for your donations to the TV Mass

12 -The Courier, November 2012

IN THE DIOCESE

In Thanksgiving for the conferral of Papal Honors

Standing: Msgr. Thomas Hargesheimer, Msgr. Gerald Kosse, Msgr. Robert Meyer, Msgr. Thomas Cook, Msgr. Thomas Melvin, Msgr. Richard Colletti Seated: Msgr. Paul Heiting, Most Rev. John M. Quinn, Msgr. James McCauley On October 28, 2012 at St. John the Evangelist Church in Rochester, in gratitude for the Prelate of Honor to His Holiness and Chaplain to His Holiness distinctions given by Pope Benedict XVI to eight priests of the diocese, the Most Rev. John M. Quinn, hosted an event to which included sung vespers with Diocese of Winona priests, seminarians, family members and parishioners. Presentation of the Papal Certificates and a reception followed.

PRELATE OF HONOR TO HIS HOLINESS Reverend Monsignor Richard M. Colletti Vicar General; Chancellor; Rector of Sacred Heart Cathedral, Winona; Pastor, St. Casimir, Winona

Reverend Monsignor Thomas J. Hargesheimer Dean of Winona Deanery; College of Consultors; Rector of St. Stanislaus Kostka Minor Basilica, Winona; Pastor, St. John Nepomucene, Winona Reverend Monsignor James A. McCauley Emeritus Vicar for Senior Priests, Senior Priest Reverend Monsignor Robert G. Meyer College of Consultors, Senior Priest CHAPLAIN TO HIS HOLINESS Reverend Monsignor Thomas E. Cook Moderator of the Curia, Director of Permanent Deaconate, Pastor of St. Agnes, Kellogg and St. Felix in Wabasha Reverend Monsignor R.

Paul Heiting Judicial Vicar; Vice Rector Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Winona; Chaplain for Federal Medical Center, in Rochester, Minnesota Reverend Monsignor Thomas P. Melvin Rector, Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Winona and Vicar for Clergy Reverend Monsignor Gerald C. Kosse Pastor of St. Leo, Pipestone; St. Joseph, Jasper; and St. Martin, Woodstock Bishop Quinn, in making the announcement said, “When our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, conferred papal honors on eight of our priests, he is recognizing the faithfulness, dedication and generosity of all of our priests.�

Interested in the Diaconate?

A man interested in the Permanent Diaconate in the Diocese of Winona must be a baptized and confirmed Roman Catholic who practices his Catholic Faith. He must be a man of proven virtue, enjoy a good reputation, and adhere to the highest moral principles. He should be actively involved in his parish, and be unreservedly recommended by his pastor.

The minimum age at ordination is 35 and the maximum age is 65. If married, the applicant must live in a stable and valid marriage, and have the full support of his wife, who will also participate in the program. He should have the ability to engage in a demanding program of intellectual, spiritual, and pastoral formation, preferably with a previous background of at least 2 years of college study. Additional requirements will be outlined in the program materials.

For more information, contact Deacon Robert Yerhot, Assistant Director of the Permanent Diaconate: ryerhot@ dow.org or call the Diocese of Winona Office of the Permanent Diaconate: 507-858-1266.

Leaving it blank counts as a NO Vote

If you are a man interested in the diaconate you should: 1. Discuss the diaconate with your pastor and the deacon assigned to your parish.

2. Have already completed the diocesan Institute of Lay Ministry, or the Together in Faith program, or its equivalent.

3. Contact the Office of the Permanent Diaconate for an application packet by emailing ryerhot@dow.org or by calling 507-858-1266. .

4. Applications will be accepted through December 31, 2012.