March 2012

contents 8 yourlife The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing

Most Reverend Earl Boyea PUBLISHER

Rev. Dwight Ezop

EDITOR AND CHAIRMAN

March 2012 • Volume 13: Issue 2

Patrick M. O’Brien

PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Elizabeth Martin Solsburg

DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING/ EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Cynthia Vandecar

MARKETING MANAGER

Patrick Dally

table of contents

8 work life I am being ‘guilt-tripped’ into giving up my sick time 10 parenting journey My mother is interfering with my baby-sitting rules 10 conflict resolution I can’t afford to attend a wedding in Hawaii 12 culture The Meatless Variety

ART DIRECTOR

Michelle Hildebrandt

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/WEBMASTER

Jillane Job

14 yourfaith

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

InnerWorkings

PRINT MANAGEMENT

Derek Melot

PROOFREADING

Bob Patten | Chris Sushynski

14 in the know with Father Joe What do I say when people ask, ‘Are Catholics really Christian?’ 16 theology 101 What is the Old Testament: History? Science? Poetry? Law? 18 spiritual fitness How to choose God’s way

CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATORS

FOUNDING PUBLISHER

Rev. Charles Irvin FOUNDING EDITOR

For advertising information: Call 517.853.7600

22 cover story 2 cops, 1 family of FAITH 26 my story New outlook, new life – Bob Villa lets go and lets God

P. Shippert

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

J. Luning

Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling

22 yourstories

T. Gennara

FAITHTM (USPS 019993) is a publication of FAITH Catholic, Diocese of Lansing, 1500 E. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48906-5550. FAITHTM is a membership publication of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing and is published monthly except for February and August. To purchase a subscription, log on to FAITHmag.com. If you have a change of address, please contact your parish. Periodicals postage paid in Lansing, MI and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to FAITHTM, 1500 E. Saginaw St., Lansing MI 48906-5550. ©2011 FAITH Catholic. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Catholic.

special report

The rule does include a very narrow religious exemption, which will fail to protect most religious employers. To be eligible for the exemption, a religious organization must meet four strict criteria. The religious employer must:

Should the Catholic Church have to provide birth control coverage to its employees?

cting on a recommendation from the Institute of Medicine, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has issued a rule that will force almost all private health plans to include coverage for all FDA-approved prescription contraceptive drugs and devices (including controversial abortifacients), as well as surgical sterilization. According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) website, these are categorized under the “preventative services for women” that “plans will have to cover without co-pays or other cost-sharing – regardless of whether the insurer, the employer or other plan sponsor, or even the woman herself objects to such coverage.”

1 2 3 4

Have the inculcation(or teaching) of religious values as its purpose; Primarily employ persons who share its religious tenets; Primarily serve persons who share its religious tenets; and Be a nonprofit organization under specific sections of the Internal Revenue Code.

Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of GalvestonHouston, chairman of the USCCB Committee on Pro-Life Activities, has asserted that given these criteria “our institutions would be free to act in accord with Catholic teaching on life and procreation only if they were to stop hiring and serving non-Catholics.” The reality is that the exemption would fail to cover Catholic hospitals, universities, and service organizations such as Catholic Charities. Further, according to the USCCB, the exemption provides no protection to “sponsors and providers of health plans for the general public, to pro-life people who own businesses, or to individuals with a moral or religious objection to these procedures.” The rule takes effect on August 1, 2012, with enforcement against some religious employers delayed until Aug. By Doug Culp

1, 2013. Cardinal-designate Timothy Dolan, archbishop of New York and president of the USCCB, characterized the “extension” as signifying that “we have a year to figure out how to violate our consciences.”

What’s At Stake? Immediate Impact The HHS mandate forces Catholics to choose between participating in health benefit plans that violate their basic moral principles and force cooperation with intrinsically evil practices and not having health benefits. Further, religious organizations such as the Catholic Church will be forced by the government to choose between dropping health-care coverage for the thousands of employees in its hospital, schools, universities and service organizations or violating its moral teachings. The Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) illuminates the scope of the rule’s impact. It states that in 2011, the Catholic Church in the United States had:

17,782 Parishes 5,774

Elementary schools

1,206

Secondary Schools In addition, the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities states there are 244 Catholic colleges and universities in the United States. According to the 2010 American Hospital Association Annual Survey, there are 629 Catholic hospitals in the U.S. This doesn’t include the more than 1,500 local agencies and institutions that make up the Catholic Charities network and the more than 400 Catholic health care centers and specialized homes in the U.S. Together these institutions serve tens of millions of people in the United States.

What’s At Stake? Long-term Impact The HHS mandate threatens the

What church leaders are saying On Jan. 19, 2012, Pope Benedict XVI expressed concern over “certain attempts being made to limit that most cherished of American freedoms, the freedom of religion” through the denial of “the right of conscientious objection on the part of Catholic individuals and institutions with regard to cooperation in intrinsically evil practices.”

violates their conscience. This shouldn’t happen in a land where free exercise of religion ranks first in the Bill of Rights.” – Cardinal-designate Timothy Dolan, archbishop of New York and president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

“This is nothing less than a direct attack on religion and First Amendment rights.” – Sister Jane Marie Klein, chair-

“Never before has the federal government forced individuals and

organizations to go out into the marketplace and buy a product that

person of the board at Franciscan Alliance, Inc., a system of 13 Catholic hospitals

that good for which we were created. country’s long-standing respect for conThe interrelatedness and inseparabilscience protection and is symptomatic of ity of conscience and freedom from the an ever-increasing disconnect in our soCatholic viewpoint should be clear. If we ciety’s understanding of the relationship recognize the good, but cannot choose between conscience and freedom. The the good, our actions will be contraramifications of this rupture are increddictory and disordered, as we will not ibly serious for Catholics and all people be able to live in harmony with what of good will. we know to be The Catholic the truth. If we Church teaches can choose the that the human “Congress shall make good, but canperson is freely no law respecting an not recognize the created by God to establishment of religion, good, our actions share eternal life in will be similarly communion with or prohibiting the free imprudent and God. This life with exercise thereof; or disordered. God is our greatest abridging the freedom of The stakes are good because God incredibly high, alone is the Good. speech, or of the press; not only for the Consequently, we or the right of the people Catholic Church can only be fully peaceably to assemble, in America, but ourselves or whole, for the country to the extent that and to petition the Govitself. The erowe are living in ernment for a redress of sion of conscience harmony with this grievances.” protection in the good for which we – The First Amendment to the Constitution of name of “freedom were created. the United States (ratified December 15, 1791) to choose” means This is where an end to freedom conscience comes itself. The freedom into play. Conscience is that God-given law deep within to choose the good – the only true freedom – does not exist without the right to our minds by which we are called to love exercise a well-formed conscience. Conand to do what is good and avoid what is evil. Conscience, then, orients and directs versely, the exercise of a well-formed conscience is fruitless without the freedom us to that good for which we were creto follow what that conscience identifies ated. as good. One simply cannot exist without Freedom also is directly related to the the other. good. Freedom gives us the power to choose

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

Take action now: The USCCB website (www.usccb.org) provides a link that allows people to contact Congress directly. In addition, it recommends concerned citizens to:

Get the free mobile app at

http://gettag.mobi

• Write Congress urging support for the Respect for Rights of Conscience Act (H.R. 1179, S. 1467). • Get informed by reading the USCCB FAQ’s regarding the HHS mandate and the select news releases the site provides, and by watching Cardinal-designate Timothy Dolan’s video. • Share the information on the website with others so they can get informed and take action.

In Michigan: Join the Michigan Catholic Conference Legislative Advocacy Network and urge your representatives to cosponsor and support this measure. Scan the tag above or visit www. micatholicconference. org/public-policy/

Carlson Productions

What are the Michigan bishops saying?

he bishops in Michigan are speaking out strongly on this matter. Bishop Earl Boyea of the Diocese of Lansing issued the following statement:

These past days have seen a grave error on the part of the federal government, as well as a blessed response from Catholics all across this great state

and nation. By now, all men and women of faith know that the United States Department of Health and Human Services has de-

clared that health benefit plans must include coverage for sterilization, contraception and abortion-inducing drugs. This unconstitutional and unconscionable mandate is to take effect in stages during 2012 and 2013. The Catholic Church in the United States will never comply with this mandate. Told that the federal government has allowed a one-year grace period during which the Church can adjust itself to this mandate, Cardinal-designate Timothy Dolan of the Archdiocese of New York responded that the Church does not need a year to determine whether it would comply. He is right. In offering this supposed mandate, the federal government misreads the Constitution of the United States. It equally misreads the determination of Catholics.

This nation is built upon the three-legged stool of the First Amendment. Our precious freedoms of religion, speech and assembly underlie everything this nation is – and everything this nation has ever accomplished. Religious liberty gives the freedom to preach the truth. And the truth is that pregnancy is not a disease. Nor is the natural fertility of a woman a disease. Through the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Michigan Catholic Conference, we are exploring a number of options, including litigation and Congressional reform. As these efforts move forward, Catholics should make clear to their elected officials the crucial importance of religious liberty, and they should pray daily for those who have the responsibility for making these decisions.

from the editors

Spring cleaning for the soul

ust by looking around the house, I can tell that things around the parish have been busy lately. The recycling bins are pretty full -- indicating that it’s been a while since I’ve taken things to the local recycling center. By the looks of my closet, there are some clothes that should be taken to a local charity so that they can be re-used. Stepping into my study, I can see that the bookshelves could really use some straightening and rearranging, too. March is here and it’s time for a good spring cleaning. Lent is also here, and it’s time for a good spring cleaning of our spiritual dwelling places – with the reception of the sacrament of reconciliation. Reconciliation, or confession, offers the

T. Gennara

Father Dwight Ezop is editor of FAITH Magazine and pastor of the Catholic Community of St. Jude. E-mail: editor@ FAITHmag.com.

perfect opportunity for each of us to search out those dark corners inside, where things tend to accumulate over time. Left alone long enough, those dark places begin to look like those recycling bins at home – lots of stuff just waiting to be hauled out and gotten rid of. Praying with the Ten Commandments or the Beatitudes or the spiritual or corporal works of mercy can be like taking a flashlight and shining it into the places we may normally overlook--or those places into which we seldom wish to look. Preparing for the sacrament of reconciliation requires some work on our part. It also requires the sacrifice of some of our time. We need to set aside adequate time for prayer and preparation and for the examina-

saint of the month

St. Joseph husband of Mary St Joseph was the husband of the Virgin Mary and foster father of Jesus Christ. Joseph provides for and protects

tion of conscience, and then we actually need to make the trip to church. Each step requires deliberate action on our part. I also know that this particular sacrament is not a favorite for many-- just like most of us never really looked forward to sweeping out the garage when we were kids. There are lots of reasons for this: Perhaps the last time we went to reconciliation the priest was unable to give helpful advice or seemed a little hurried in the course of the celebration. Perhaps we find it difficult to actually say out loud what has been hiding inside for too long. Perhaps we think that the priest will somehow remember what was confessed and then choose to hold that against us or think less of us outside of the celebration of the sacrament.

The list could go on and on. The ultimate problem with that list is that it focuses too much on the humanity of the priest who is there to represent both Christ and the Church, while focusing too little on the goodness and mercy of God that is at work in the sacrament. I know it will take some time to deal with the recycling bins, the clothes closet and my bookshelves at home. I also know that after I convince myself to undertake the work and to expend the time, I will be pleased with the results. So it is with the sacrament of reconciliation. It’s not always easy to walk into the sacrament and admit out loud that there are things in our past that need to be hauled out to the curb. I also know that I feel better when I hear the words of the prayer of absolution. Lent is here and it offers us a God-given opportunity to do a little spiritual housekeeping. I hope all of us will find the time and make the sacrifice to receive this sacrament of God’s mercy as a way to prepare for Easter. How much better our individual “homes” will be, and how much better we will feel, when we hear those words each of us longs to hear: “Go in peace, your sins are forgiven.” And so, our journey in FAITH continues.

Mary and the baby Jesus during his infancy. Angels often appeared to Joseph, warning him of danger and instructing him where to go. In Paul’s epistles (the earliest dated Christian texts) no mention of Joseph is made. Also, Joseph is never credited with saying anything in any of the Gospels, and very little is known about him. He is traditionally portrayed as a carpenter, often with a young Jesus at his side. He is the Patron Saint of the Catholic Church.

Joseph uses his sci-fi skills to get past danger.

– Story and illustrations by Chris Sushynski

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

Liturgical calendar: St. Katharine Drexel, virgin March 3 | Ss. Perpetua and Felicity, martyrs March 7

75th

Anniversar y

the

Diocese

Lansing

The Diocese of Lansing celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. Throughout the year, we’ll be presenting pieces of our history, thanks to our diocesan historian, Msgr. George Michalek.

Churches that began in theaters

our parishes in the Lansing Diocese began in theaters, one in an opera house, and even one at an amusement park. Meeting in a theater has some pluses – a stage for the altar area, a center aisle, adequate seating and, sometimes, a balcony for the choir loft. A disadvantage – try kneeling on a downward slant.

Bishop Joseph Albers began the new parishes in theaters, planning to build temporary churches soon afterward, before all building supplies were diverted to the impending World War II effort. St. John Vianney in Flint had its first eucharistic celebration in the Della Theater on Feb. 2, 1941. A new church was built and dedicated the following May. In East Lansing, the first Mass for St.

A gift from the Angel Gabriel, before departing for Eygpt.

in Northtown Theater with its initial Mass on Aug. 7, 1949. The altar was borrowed from Resurrection Parish, from which some of the parishioners of the new church came. In 1953, St. Catherine Laboure in Concord began as a mission of Queen of the Miraculous Medal St. Catherine Laboure c. 1950-1960 in Jackson. A brick building on Main Street, which had Thomas Aquinas was on Oct. 4, 1940, served as an opera house, movie theater, in the State Theater on Abbott Road. The congregation used the floodlit stage school gymnasium and meeting house for the community, was purchased. as a sanctuary and the orchestra rail for After it was renovated, Bishop Albers a communion rail. On Easter Sunday celebrated the dedication Mass there on 1942, Mass began being celebrated in May 16, 1954, and it was St. Catherine’s the basement of another building nearhome until 1996. by; it became known as the catacombs Long before all of these parishes began, of East Lansing. Bishop Michael Gallagher had purchased Burton Theater on Saginaw Street land on Pierson Road in Flint, near in Flint held the first Mass of Holy where General Motors began a housing Redeemer in Burton on Sept. 22, 1940 development for its workers. Mass was (until Burton was organized as a town, celebrated for the new St. Agnes Parish it had a Flint address). A temporary in the Photoplay House (a theater) on church was constructed the next year, and the present church was dedicated in the grounds of Flint Amusement Park on July 1, 1928. The altar was a board September 1960. across two sawhorses; the 15 people After the war, another parish, St. present donated $22.43 to the collection. Therese of Lisieux in Lansing, started

Little written about Joseph in the Bible.

Joseph, with the young Jesus.

work life

into giving up my sick time

One of my co-workers is ill and will be off for a while. We have been told we can donate sick time to her. It’s not that I am unfeeling, but I’m afraid that if I donate, I won’t have enough time if I become ill myself. We’re getting a lot of pressure – am I obligated to do this?

Let’s be clear about something. You are by no means obligated to donate your sick time. You are not being unfeeling or unjust to not do so. In my view, this is a righthearted, but wrong-headed policy. Like pay grade and vacation days, sick time is an individual matter and should be managed as such. The practice you describe confuses the lines and creates a bartering and loan system. No wonder you feel

such mixed feelings of pressure and false guilt. Mixed message = mixed feelings. The basic notion of justice is to give to the other his due. It’s all about obligation. Fairness is achieved when obligations are met. BUT, there are three different types of justice (cf CCC 2411): • The individual to the individual (commutative justice). You loan me $10. I owe you $10. • The individual to the whole (legal justice). I come to work on time, complete my tasks, don’t

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

steal company property, etc. • The whole to the individual (distributive justice). The company pays my full wage on time, provides equipment, safe working conditions, etc. The problem with your company’s policy is that it’s mixing up three obligations in a muddled mess. The exchange rate is unclear. Does the company owe sick time to the individual or the group? Are individuals responsible to use their sick time or borrow or loan with co-workers or donate back to a sick time pool? I would advise the following: 1. Keep your sick time to yourself. Use it only when you’re sick and accrue it when you’re healthy. 2. Don’t feel a lick of guilt. You don’t “owe” another your salary, vacation or sick time. 3. If you want to help your co-worker, express it in your own way. You can take him/ her a meal, help with errands, etc. This is called charity, not

11 marriage matters

12 culture

T. Gennara

I am being ‘guilt-tripped’

10 parenting journey

P. Shippert

yourlife

inside:

Jim Berlucchi is an educator, executive coach, speaker and author, Jim Berlucchi is the Executive Director of the Spitzer Center, whose mission is to build cultures of evangelization (www.spitzercenter.org). justice. It’s voluntary, rewarding and pleasing to the God who loves a cheerful giver. (2 Corinthians 9:7)

4. If you want to help your employer, volunteer to cover some of the fallout from your co-worker’s absence. 5. Tactfully point out the policy flaw to your supervisor. Maybe you can be an influence for a smarter approach. Finally, where was a good grade donation policy when I was racking up C’s in college? But that’s a subject for another column – sloth and its consequences.

St. Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary March 19 | St. Turbius de Mogrovejo, bishop March 23

Y O U R

L I F E

parenting journey

My mother is interfering with my baby-sitting rules

My mother was visiting while I was babysitting my nephew. When he got something from the refrigerator, which is allowed in my house, and at his own, she scolded him. How do I honor my mother, but not cave in?

Often, when family and friends come over we say, “Make yourself at home.” Of course, since norms vary in each home, this may lead to some challenging moments. Add the supervision of children, and the situation becomes even more complex. In this case, it was natural for your mom to fall into the guidelines that she enforces at her home. However, since it is your home, you get to set the rules. You can respect your mother while still running your household according to your own standards.

Dr. Cathleen McGreal is a psychology professor and certified spiritual director.

I can’t afford to attend a wedding in Hawaii My cousin has planned a destination wedding and expects the whole family to be there. We simply cannot afford a trip to Hawaii. How do we get out of this without causing a family rift?

will be sharing their special moment. Thus, the couple must be sensitive to family members. Elderly family members may not be physically able to travel. Some family members may not be able to afford the expenses

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

conflict resolution associated with attending a destination wedding. If you are unable to attend the wedding, invite the couple to your home and discuss ways that you can be a part of the preparation of the wedding and their new life together – bridal shower, sending the invitations, helping them to organize their new home as husband and wife and so on. Keep them in your prayers and offer your support.

S. Kendrick

A very important piece of planning a wedding is where it will take place. A Catholic wedding should properly take place in a church – in the parish of the bride or groom. And an important consideration is with whom the couple

Parents need to let adult children assume responsibility. Our catechism points out that the process of letting go comes with parenthood: “When they become adults, children have the right and duty to choose their profession and state of life. They should assume their new responsibilities within a trusting relationship with their parents, willingly asking and receiving their advice and counsel.” (CCC: 2230) It is a matter of finding balance in this new family dynamic. Grandparents need to respond if an adult child’s decisions could lead to harm. For example, driving a child without a car seat or seat belt would call for a grandparent’s intervention. However, individuals often have strong feelings about everyday decisions. You get to decide, for example, whether shoes are left by the front door or worn throughout the house – even if it runs counter to the way you were raised! As an adult, you can respect the opinions of parents, but make your own decisions. T. Gennara

Wait for a private moment to talk. It may be that your mother was on automatic pilot and didn’t even take into consideration the fact that there are different rules at your home. Money may have been short when she grew up, so her parents monitored food consumption to ensure that no one went hungry. Perhaps, as teens, you and your siblings had foraged through the refrigerator

eating food that she had planned to cook for dinner! Whatever the rationale behind her rules, she needs to respect the rules of your household. Don’t approach her in the kitchen in front of your nephew. Instead, allow time to talk it over when you aren’t distracted by your role as baby-sitter. By giving her private time, she won’t feel that her authority as “grandma” is being challenged in front of her grandchild.

After all, in her house, your nephew needs to remember to ask before getting food! Be matter of fact, telling her that you felt uncomfortable when she disciplined your nephew when he was behaving appropriately in terms of your household norms and those of his parents. Explain that you’ll help enforce her rules at her home, but you expect her to do the same at yours.

Dr. Gelasia Marquez is a psychologist and family counselor.

Fifth Sunday of Lent March 25 | Annunciation of the Lord March 26

says:

“I want my wife to come to Mass with me.”

she

“I am not a Catholic.” Susan says: Mike wasn’t a practicing Catholic when we got married, and my background is Methodist. I’m happy he’s feeling fulfilled at church, but I am not interested in going – and if I were, it would be to a Methodist church.

Mike says: I recently came back to the Church after having been away for a long time. Susan is not a Catholic and is not interested in attending Mass with me. I feel very sad and lonely going by myself. I’d like her to join me.

What

do they do?

t is not unusual in today’s culture that a husband and wife do not share the practice of a religious tradition. We wonder where God is in their relationship. Some social scientists suggest that couples with a shared spirituality (shared values and a common mission) can reduce the probability of divorce dramatically. Couples who have integrated God into their marriage and have learned how to pray together can expect to lower their chances of divorce even further. Most married couples who truly wish to do all they can to protect their relationship would not hesitate to develop a relationship with Jesus and invite him into their marriage as an active partner.

ing to her own church. Mike may want to catechize Susan about the basic gestures and postures of the Mass before she attends one. That could lessen her discomfort with the unfamiliar. It may be that once Susan sees how important faith is to Mike, and his enthusiasm for a relationship with Jesus, she, too, may wish to share in that relationship. Developing a shared desire to have God a part of their marriage relationship should be their primary focus. We under-

your marriage matters stand the disappointment Mike may be feeling, but would encourage him to be patient and non-judgmental as he prays to the Holy Spirit for guidance. Romans 15:19 provides another useful guide for Mike, “… pursue what leads to peace and to building up on another.” Worship is a community act. We recommend that Mike ask Susan to accompany him to a parish potluck or church social event so she would be able to meet (and feel comfortable with) other members of the church community. Susan will discover very quickly there are a great number of non-Catholic spouses who attend Mass on a regular basis. When God wills it, through the Holy Spirit, Susan’s heart will be open to the wonders of his blessings. In the meantime, keep praying for a conversion of her heart to be open to a relationship with God, fostered by your continued example. T. Gennara

We believe it is wonderful that Mike has rediscovered the blessings of returning to the practice of his Catholic faith. We would recommend he let the Holy Spirit work in the Holy Spirit’s time, and not your time! Mike should continue to set a good example for Susan. At the appropriate time, he can share with her what he has discovered in returning to the Church. However, an appropriate time may not be every day or every Sunday. Mike could ask Susan to accompany him on special days, such as Christmas and Easter. It doesn’t appear to us that Susan is against the Catholic Church, but she doesn’t seem interested in having a relationship with God – as indicated by her lack of interest in go-

says:

Deacon Tom Fogle and JoAnne Fogle help prepare couples for marriage.

Meatless VARIETY

The

culture

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

Tortilla espanola

t seems there are many Catholics who groan during Lenten Fridays. Is it really that hard to go a whole day without meat? What I find is that it isn’t the absence of meat that people lament, but the absence of alternatives. It seems folks go blank when pondering what to prepare that does not include meat. The usual go-to’s, such as grilled cheese, fish sticks, or pizza, can only carry one so far. The good news? There is a source that can help.

T. Gennara

Thankfully for us, Spain is a Catholic country. And from the Iberian Peninsula comes the wonderful tradition of tapas. Tapas refers to a style of dining that involves multiple people gathering to taste many small plates of very different and unique dishes that, in aggregate, comprise a full meal. Typically served with sangria or Spanish wines, tapas provides the benefit of variety. Each diner typically selects a few dishes from a host of options, including

Michelle DiFranco is a designer and the busy mom of two children.

meat, seafood, cheese, vegetable and rice dishes incorporating diverse sauces, spices and herbs. Upon arrival, all the dishes are passed around so each person can sample what they ordered, along with what their fellow diners may have selected. So how does this tie into Lent (Cuaresma in Spanish) and abstaining from meat? As a penance, Catholics refrain from eating meat on Fridays during Lent. The key is in the variety. There are literally hundreds of dishes that can be found in restaurants and bars in Spain. And while many include meat, there also is an endless supply of recipes that do not. If seafood is your pleasure, get ready to redefine your Lenten Fridays. The average Spaniard consumes roughly 80 pounds of seafood per year thanks to the surrounding Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean and Cantabric seas. That reality is well manifest in the tapas tradition. But for those of you who

• 4-5 Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and sliced 1/8 inch thick • one medium-sized yellow onion, sliced 1/8 inch thick • 6 eggs • ½ to ¾ cup olive oil (or vegetable oil) • salt and pepper to taste •1-2 tablespoons chopped parsley for finishing Heat oil in a 9- or 10-inch non-stick skillet on mediumhigh heat for 1-2 minutes. Reduce heat to medium and add the potato and onion slices, evenly layering/distributing them in the skillet. Cook for about 10 to 12 minutes (stirring occasionally) until potatoes and onions are tender and golden in color (not brown). Carefully transfer potato and onion mixture into a large strainer over a small, heat resistant bowl. Let the excess oil drain into the bowl and set aside for later use. Transfer cooked potato and onion mixture into a medium bowl and set aside. After the skillet has cooled, wipe it clean with a paper towel and set aside for later use. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, salt and pepper. Gently fold in the potato and onion mixture until combined. Using the same skillet, heat ½ of the reserved oil over medium-high heat for about a minute. Carefully add the egg, potato and onion mixture. Rotate the skillet, evenly distributing the mixture in the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 6-8 minutes, shaking the skillet every few seconds (so the eggs and potatoes release from the skillet). Using a heat resistant spatula to check, make sure the tortilla is set just enough and the potatoes are a golden brown on the bottom before flipping. Place a large, flat plate (lightly coated with oil) over the top of the skillet and carefully flip onto the plate. Add remaining reserved oil to the skillet. Carefully slide the tortilla back into the skillet and cook the other side (occasionally shaking the skillet) for an additional 4-5 minutes or until golden brown on bottom. Transfer the tortilla to a plate and let cool to room temperature before serving. Cut into wedges, garnish with parsley and serve with artisan bread. are crustacean-challenged, there are plenty of delicious non-seafood offerings. I have selected a favorite tapas recipe to share; it happens to be fish-free. I also encourage

you to search for and collect as many tapas recipes as you can find. The variety you will encounter can actually make Fridays in Lent a savored part of the week. Photography by Philip Shippert

yourfaith

15 Seminary professors talk Scripture

17 How to choose God’s way

in the know with Father Joe

really Christian?’

My friend is a fundamentalist. She says that Catholics aren’t Christian because they say that you go to heaven if you do good works. She showed me Scripture passages that show that you can’t “earn” heaven – you need a personal relationship with Jesus. What is the Catholic answer to this?

This is a great ques(Luke 13:24-25) As Christians, we tion and, the answer absolutely have to cooperate is going to go a lot with the Holy Spirit and mainof places, so stick with me and tain a close, personal relationlet’s dive right in! ship with Jesus. First off, let’s take a look at How do we do this? First and the two seemmost imporingly conflicttant is prayer. ing ideas We should about how to spend time As Christians, get to heaven: each day in we absolutely you need prayer: talking have to cogood works with Jesus, and you need listening to operate with a personal him, sitting in the Holy Spirit relationship silence in his and mainwith Jesus. presence. If First, we’ll we don’t do tain a close, take a look at this, then we personal the idea that can’t have a relationship you need a relationship personal relawith him. with Jesus. tionship with Where Jesus. Do you works come need a perinto play is in sonal relationship with Jesus? the communal element to this Absolutely. The simplest way to relationship. Our faith can never think of it is this: In the parables be only about “Me and Jesus” where Jesus talks about people – it is about “We and Jesus.” not going to heaven, he uses God made us in community the line, “I do not know you.” and for community. Community

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

T. Gennara

Dear Fr. Joe: What do I say when people ask, ‘Are Catholics

worship refines our personal relationship with Jesus. It affords us a great opportunity to learn from each other and challenge each other. Right now, it seems that we are neglecting this area of our spirituality. I hear people talk about the evils of “organized religion” and describing themselves as “spiritual, but not religious.” I will address this topic in a future article, but, for now, let’s just say that describing oneself as “spiritual but not religious” is like describing oneself as “in love, but alone.” It just doesn’t work. So, we discovered that we need a personal relationship with Jesus, lived out in a community of believers, but what about works? Turns out we need good works as well. (Surprise!) I can’t say it better than the Book of James. Check out these passages from James Chapter 2:

What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? So also faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead. Indeed someone might say, “You have faith and I have works.” Demonstrate your faith to me without works, and I will demonstrate my faith to you from my works. See what the Scripture is telling us there? If we claim to have a personal relationship with

Send your questions to: “In the Know with Fr. Joe” FAITH Magazine, 1500 E. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48906 Or: JoeInBlack@priest.com Jesus, then it should translate into works, or it’s not a personal relationship with Jesus! The good works we do are not so that we can get to heaven – the good works we do are because we are going to heaven. There’s a big difference there! This is where we Catholics can and should be challenged. We often talk as if simply by “doing the right thing,” we are going to heaven. We forget that heaven is a gift that we can never earn. So where does this all leave us? Right where it should lead us: into total dependency on God. No matter how deep our personal relationship with Jesus, no matter how numerous our good works, no matter how perfect our belief, it will never be enough and that is a good thing. Heaven is a gift. A gift we receive by fostering a personal relationship with Jesus, lived out in a community and expressed by good works. This shows the world that the true gift we give is not ourselves alone, but ourselves in love with, and dependent on, Jesus. Enjoy another day in God’s presence!

SA-ve the ~A-te! Saturday, October 27, 2012 The Catholic Diocese of Lansing Presents:

Wt ~~t( f~is frtft,SUrt The First Annual Women's Catholic Conference 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Causeway Bay Hotel & Convention Center in lansing, Ml www. La nsi ngOioceseCWC.org

more information to follow this spring

Applications will be available at www.glcef.org or by calling 517.485.8333 by Jan. 30, 2012 • Application Deadline is March 19, 2012 • Eligible grades are 6th-10th at any Diocese of Lansing Catholic school

• $750 scholarships for students in grades 6, 7 and 8 • $1,000 scholarships for students in 9th and 10th grades

Y O U R

F A I T H

theology 101

Can we read the Old Testament as

History? Science? Poetry? Law? How should we read the Old Testament? Is it history, science, law, poetry – all or none of the above? And why is knowledge of literary forms essential for the interpretation of biblical texts? The Old Testament is a compilation of history, legend, narratives and all types of poetry. I would not say that it contains “pure” science as we understand it today, because that is simply not an understanding the Hebrew authors would have had. The literary variety in the Old Testament makes the consideration of literary forms the essential first step in interpret-

ing biblical texts. Pope Pius XII made this point clear in his 1943 encyclical, Divino Afflante Spiritu. Continuing our previous point regarding science, if the Hebrews could not have written the Book of Genesis in a scientific form because it was not in their consciousness, how we read the Genesis accounts of creation must reflect this realization. We simply must know what we are reading before we can hope to understand what we are reading. – Father Schoenstene

A helpful way to approach the Old Testament (OT), as well as the Bible as a whole, is to think of it as a library, rather than as a single work. Like a library, the Scriptures contain many different books that were composed over a period of roughly 1,000 years in various places and situations. What unifies all these books is the aim to open people’s eyes to the reality that God created them and loves them, accompanies and leads them, and offers them the privilege of being partners in the ongoing mission to reveal the divine love to others. In his 1943 encyclical, Divino Afflante Spiritu, Pope Pius XII reminds us that the books of the Bible were composed by people living in a specific place and time, that they reflect the worldviews of these writers, and that the vehicles used to pass on God’s acts in

SEMInARY pROFESSORS TALk SCRIpTURE Father Robert Schoenstene, S.S.L., is an assistant professor, Department of Biblical Exegesis and Proclamation, University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary.

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

Elizabeth Nagel, S.S.D., is a professor in the Department of Biblical Exegesis and Proclamation, University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary.

Vatican II

What pope called for and opened the Second Vatican Council?

Catholic News Service

human history are the conventional literary forms in vogue at the time of their composition. The specific place in question for the Old Testament is the Mideast, the time is roughly 2,500-3,000 years ago. Accordingly, the language, literary forms and customs of the biblical writers were quite different from those with which many Christians are familiar. All of this is why the pope emphasized the need for scholars to study the original context and customs of the biblical writers, the languages in which they wrote (Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek), and the literary forms they used to capture the experiences that revealed God to them. The books of the Old Testament contain a variety of literary forms, such as narratives, genealogies, laws, poems, prophetic oracles and apocalyptic writing. Literary forms that do not occur per se are history as we understand it in our time, and science. In order to interpret any biblical form accurately, its functions in the biblical world must be identified. For example, one function of genealogies is to show geographical and political relationships more than it is to show biological lineage. Thus, narratives about Esau (the ancestor of the Edomites) and Jacob (Israel’s ancestor) reflect the interactions of two peoples whose historical relationship was for the most part that of hostile neighbors. Genealogies also express theological realities. For example, the lists of names in the genealogies of Matthew and Luke are quite diverse because each evangelist chose names that would shed light on the distinct aspect of the incarnation of the Son of God that they were inspired to emphasize. All of us use literary forms to navigate daily life without even thinking about it. For instance, our knowledge of literary forms makes it possible for us to interpret correctly every piece of mail that we receive. We know that a bill notifies us that we must pay someone money. If we didn’t recognize its literary form, i.e., that of a bill, we might misinterpret this “text,” treat it as junk mail, throw it in the trash and eventually suffer the consequences of our misinterpretation by having to pay more. Likewise, we do not read an advertisement for yet another credit card like we read a letter from a dear friend or relative. Nor do we interpret a newspaper editorial as a presentation of objective facts because we know that its function is to convey an editor’s personal opinion. The successful identification of literary forms and their functions is essential to the accurate interpretation of any “text,” be it a biblical or a contemporary one. – Professor Nagel

Born Angelo Guiseppe Roncalli, Blessed Pope John XXIII (Nov. 25, 1881-June 3, 1963) was elected Oct. 28, 1958, as the 262nd pope. Nearly 77 at the time, he was viewed by many as a “stop-gap” pope. He quickly proved to be someone very different. Upon his election, Roncalli chose John as his name, a move that caused some concern initially. It was the first time in more than 500 years that this name had been chosen. It seems previous popes had avoided its use since the time of the antipope, John XXIII, during a time of schism. However, by declaring that he was John XXIII instead of John XXIV, he affirmed the status of the antipope as illegitimate. He also convoked the Roman Synod and established the Commission for the Revision of the Code of Canon Law. Then, less than three

months after his election on Jan. 25, 1959, he indicated that he would call for an ecumenical council. While he had no detailed plan, it is clear that updating the Catholic Church (aggiornamento) and seeking Christian unity were foremost in his mind. He said it was time to open the windows of the Church to let in some fresh air. He formally summoned the Second Vatican Council by the apostolic constitution Humanae

Salutis on Dec. 25, 1961, and invited other non-Catholic Christians to be observers. He composed two encyclicals, Mater et Magistra and Pacem in Terris. He died two months after the latter in 1963. Blessed Pope John XXIII was known for his personal warmth and kindness. On Sept. 3, 2000, he was declared “Blessed” by Pope John Paul II, the first pope since Pope Pius X to receive this honor.

Catechism quiz

In the East, the priest immediately confirms those who have just been baptized with sacred chrism consecrated by the patriarch or the bishop. In contrast, the Latin Rite has retained the bishop as the ordinary minister of confirmation. Why does the Latin Rite do this?

Bishops are successors of the apostles and have received the fullness of Holy Orders. By their administration of the sacrament, the bishops demonstrate that Confirmation’s effect is to unite those who receive it “more closely to the Church, to her apostolic origins and to her mission of bearing witness to Christ.” – CCC 1313 Interview and sidebars by Bob Horning

Y O U R

F A I T H

spiritual fitness

How to choose

Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s way

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

n last month’s issue, I wrote about the mercy of God. Mercy is part of the revelation of who God is. It is essential to understand it (as far as we are able) because Jesus has asked us: Love one another as I have loved you. (See John 15:12 and Lk. 6:27) Later, in court during the trial, he identified those who had assaulted him and testified to what they had done. To the two criminals, he said, however, that he had forgiven them and hoped they could turn their lives around. The judge said that, in his 35 years on the bench, he had never witnessed anything like it. This elderly man’s body had been badly wounded, but not his spirit! Spiritual lesson: Remember what I said in the previous article. Pope John Paul II told us: Mercy is not the opposite of justice. It is the opposite of resentment and revenge. We can pursue legal justice without resentment and the desire for revenge. God will give you the grace to participate in his mercy, if you ask for it. The second story involves a single mother who worked tirelessly so that her son could go on to college. Her son got involved with the wrong crowd and ended up in the crossfire of a drug deal “gone bad.” He was murdered. You can scarcely imagine the pain of that mother. Yet, with prayer and good counsel, she was able, seven months later, to walk into the courtroom grieving, but at peace. She saw the grandmother of the boy who murdered her son – a grandmother who had tried to raise her grandson the best she could, only to have to witness her grandson tried and found guilty of murder! The murdered boy’s mother went across the courtroom, embraced the grandmother and said: “We both have lost children.” She then went on to develop a foundation to raise money for the children of the poor and underprivileged in the city where her son died. She wanted those poor to have a real chance to rise above the poverty and darkness. She extended the mercy of God.

T. Gennara

God never commands without imparting the grace and power for us to comply. He calls us to be more like him and – little by little, by the grace of God – we can. The first step is to put our wills behind God’s call to each of us. We can refuse, but then we never come to the point where we really share life in God – a life that brings true peace and hope and joy even in difficult circumstances. His ways are often not our ways. Sometimes, to our human and very finite minds, his way seems foolish and we tend to reject, without bowing down before God and asking him to teach us his way and God never to give us his commands power (the without imHoly Spirit) to carry out his parting the will. In this argrace and ticle, I want to power for us share with you the true stories to comply. of two people He calls us who chose to be more God’s way over their own way like him and the fruit it and – little bore. by little, by The first was an elderly the grace World War II of God – we veteran who can. also was a widower. Two years ago, two men appeared at his door, posing as electrical company workers, asking if they could check “his lines.” After he let them in, they proceeded to beat him unmercifully, demanding money. A neighbor found him some time later, and called the ambulance and the police. The man’s cheekbones and jaw were broken, along with many of his ribs. When he was able, he told the police all he could. The men were tracked down and arrested. When I visited him in the hospital, never did he show anger. Instead, he spoke of the needs of those who visited and shared stories of his own. Another one of his visitors, a young woman, said to me, “I want to be like him.” There was a peace about him that touched everyone who met him…

Sister Ann Shields is a renowned author and a member of the Servants of God’s Love. Questions can be addressed to Sister Ann Shields, Renewal Ministries, 230 Collingwood, Suite 240, Ann Arbor, MI 48103

For more complete teaching: A free booklet, “Captured by Mercy” is available by calling 1.800.282.4789. A CD, “Captured by Mercy” is available for $10. Order by writing Renewal Ministries, Att: Jan Sauter, 230 Collingwood, Suite 240, Ann Arbor, MI 48103. (Check payable to Renewal Ministries)

Spiritual lesson: Extending forgiveness to those who seem to deserve the opposite takes courage and faith. It takes support and wise counsel, but if we respond to the grace, we can become more and more like God – mercy that will endure forever by its effects; mercy that will greet us on the day each of us stands before him. “Equal to his majesty is the mercy that he shows.” (Sirach 2:18) May we admit our own need and receive God’s mercy and may we extend it to those who still walk in darkness and the shadow of death.

Y O U R

F A I T H

CNS photo /L’Osservatore Romano

from the bishop

My visit to Rome

ell, we are back! The bishops of Ohio and Michigan have returned from their ad limina (“to the threshold”) visits in Rome. Every so many years (our last one was in 2004), each bishop in the world is to make a visit to Rome to say Mass at the thresholds of the tombs of St. Peter and St. Paul and report on the condition of his diocese to the Holy Father.

Carlson Productions

In preparation for the visit, the diocesan staff responded to a questionnaire provided by the Vatican, and Msgr. Raica assembled all the responses into a study, which was then mailed to Rome in triplicate. These materials were then distributed

to the various congregations (departments that advise the pope) for their review. In this way, over a period of years, the Holy See (pope and his congregations) are made aware of the conditions of all the dioceses throughout the world. Here are a few of the comments in our study which were sent to the Holy See. Much of the report was a positive statement of the many wonderful activities and people of this Diocese of Lansing. However, at the end, we mentioned some concerns. We noted the decline in Mass

attendance and sacramental participation. While acknowledging the slight decline in the population of Michigan, we recognize that this religious affiliation decline is steeper. We also saw the need to make sure our Catholic schools are affordable for our people and how difficult that is. We talked a good deal about the need for the New Evangelization, which means for us the deeper engagement of the faithful Catholics who continue to worship with us in our Sunday assemblies; the reaching out to those who have fallen away from the practice of the faith; and the being present and public about our faith in society, even in the face of forces that may want to curtail that presence (here we mentioned the good work of our Catholic Charities, our Catholic hospitals, and the Church’s social justice teachings). We also talked about the restructuring of our parishes, which has taken place over the past few years and will continue. We noted that this was the result of a long period

of study in the diocese and a plan that was produced by the various consultative bodies in the diocese. We also noted the renewed focus on the theme of vocation – that is, God’s call to holiness and our response. This has been a very fruitful activity in our diocese, though we need to do much more to support the sacrament and vocation of marriage. Prior to the actual meetings for the Ohio and Michigan bishops in Rome, Bishop Blair of Toledo and I went up to Assisi for two days. That is one of my favorite places. The peace and quiet of that town in the evening after the tourists have left are remarkable. I prayed for all of you at the tomb of St. Francis. The meetings with the various congregations took place from Wednesday, Feb. 1, through Monday, Feb. 6, with daily Masses at St. Peter’s, St. Paul’s, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, the tomb of Blessed John Paul II, the Casa Santa Maria (where priests from the USA who are doing graduate work stay), and the North American College (where seminarians – including three of ours – stay; also Father Vincke from our diocese lives and works here). We also had a reception at the U.S. Embassy to the Holy See. It was a busy week, but I always found time to pray for all of you – the clergy, consecrated men and women and laity of the Diocese of Lansing, especially at the tombs of Sts. Peter and Paul. Of course, one of the highlights of the ad limina is the visit with the Holy Father, which he now does not do with individual bishops but with groups. The Holy Father conveyed his prayers and best wishes to all of you and wishes you to know that he imparts upon you his Apostolic Blessing.

Bishop Earl Boyea is the fifth bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing.

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

hen you have a conversation with two career police officers, you might imagine a dark bar, glasses filled with amber-colored liquor and bleak tales told by world-weary and cynical officers. This is not the scenario with Blissfield Police Chief Jane Kelly and her husband, Randy, who is retired from the Lenawee County Sheriff’s Department. With their combined 59 years working in law enforcement, they share stories filled with faith and hope. Though the two have seen the worst of human behavior, they focus on people’s virtues. Jane and Randy use faith to guide them through personal and professional challenges, separately in their careers and together in their 11-year marriage. “My faith shows me there’s good in everyone,” Jane says of her work. Both Randy and Jane began their career in law enforcement, at different

times, with the Adrian Police Department Reserves. Randy became involved while studying drafting and engineering and working for the city of Adrian. Not long

after joining the reserves, he decided to become a police officer. “It just got in my blood,” Randy says. Being able to protect people appealed to him, and it was more than a job – law enforcement was a calling. “It takes a certain individual to do that work,” Randy says. From the time she was a little girl, Jane knew she was meant to help people. After earning a bachelor’s degree in political science and history from Siena Heights College, Jane worked in the Adrian court system as a probation officer for 10 years. Joining the volunteer reserves group, she became hooked on law enforcement. The rigors of police work challenged Jane and gave her a sense of freedom and the ability to work outside of an office. “I found that I really liked the people connection,” Jane says of her career change.

ane’s approach was different than most of her co-workers, and earned her the nickname “The Social Worker.” Sometimes, her unique focus was not appreciated by her fellow officers.

A trained negotiator, Jane works to guide people and help them make better choices, consciously choosing to see everyone as a person rather than a criminal. “It’s a different way to approach people,” she explains. Randy has the same philosophy. “I’m here to get them back on the right path,” he says. Their focus on rehabilitation has made an impact on many lives. Many people have expressed appreciation for Jane and Randy’s impact on them. This validation of their work from people often considered unworthy is the highest praise for both. “We do touch people’s lives,” Randy says. Jane’s Catholic faith started in childhood, with the example of her parents, Alfred and Catherine Payeur. Not a wealthy family, her parents always shared with neighbors and friends in need. Alfred and Catherine modeled Christ-like behavior for Jane and her five older siblings.

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

“They were always doing something to help somebody,” she remembers fondly. Her parents’ example shaped Jane and deepened her desire to help others. Catholicism strengthened Jane, supporting her through personal struggles and challenges in her career. Jane believes her faith helps her navigate potentially dangerous situations. Several years ago, a pizza delivery person was robbed in the village of Blissfield after a fake order was placed. The next night when another phony order was made with a different restaurant, Jane decided to go undercover as the delivery person. Before she stepped out of the car with the pizza, Jane stopped to say a prayer, one she always says before going out on a potentially dangerous call. “I ask the Lord to be with me and help me make the right decisions,” Jane says. As she stepped out of the car, she noticed a hedge of bushes that she observed was a perfect hiding place for the robbers. Jane moved forward with the pizza box covering her weapon. When the perpetrators stepped out from behind the bushes to rob her, Jane arrested them. For her bravery and command of the situation, Jane was awarded the Medal of Valor. Randy traveled a different path. For many years, he was unaware of the faith he had in his heart and God’s plan for him. Raised as a Baptist, he lost interest in church after high school. Without faith to guide him, Randy says he made many mistakes in his life. While providing security for St. Mary’s Parish in Adrian, he got to know many of the parishioners. As

they reached out to him, Randy felt his faith awaken. He began a new relationship with God and Christ. He started attending Mass regularly at St. Mary’s. “They’re such a friendly community,” Randy says of the parish. “This is where I needed to be.” Around the same time he found St. Mary’s, Randy and Jane began dating. Jane invited him to go to church with her at St. Mary’s, unaware Randy had been attending Mass there as well. When they arrived, she was surprised to find Randy knew more people than she did! During their 10-year courtship, the couple became very active in the parish. Randy went through the RCIA program, supported by Jane and her parents. He acknowledges Jane’s father, Alfred, guiding him and encouraging parish participation. “It has totally changed my life and my thoughts,” he says of his conversion, and credits Jane for helping him along the way. “She is an inspiration to me.” “We’ve got to be meant for each other,” Jane says of their union, which happened slowly while each of them worked out personal issues. When the couple was ready to marry, Father Tom Helfrich encouraged Jane and Randy to have their wedding during Mass. Regular attendees at the 4:30 p.m. Saturday Mass, Randy and Jane decided to honor Father Tom’s request. “St. Mary’s is our parish family,” Jane says. No invitations were sent. The parish simply joined in the celebration of matrimony. Their gift registry was only one item – a dish to pass at the potluck reception held after

Mass. Afterwards, many people told Jane and Randy their unique wedding was inspirational. The close-knit parish is so much a home that when Jane accepted the position of chief for the Blissfield Police Department in 2001, the couple continued to celebrate Mass

Columbus. “I think what makes our relationship special is we both have the same faith,” Jane says. “It makes a difference for me that we both go to church together.” Their shared occupation has also been a source of strength and unity for the couple. Randy

prisoner pen pal program needs volunteers The Prisoner Pen Pal Program of the Diocese of Lansing has volunteers writing letters to Michigan prisoners held as far away as Massachusetts. As stated in its mission statement, the program attempts to provide spiritual and psychological support, as well as friendship, to men and women behind prison walls. Volunteers are encouraged to include some spiritual direction/counsel/inspiration with each letter, as well as the thoughts of friendship. Volunteers must be at least 18. All letters, from the prisoner and to the prisoner, are forwarded through the Restorative Justice Office, where they are screened for content, safety and appropriateness. Only the first name of the volunteer is given to the inmate and no other identifying information is released. The pen pal relationship ceases when the prisoner is released from prison and begins life outside the prison. Requests from prisoners for legal advice, books, cash, clothing or other materials are not allowed. The Department of Corrections has very strict rules about what may be received by an inmate. Breaking these rules may cause the prisoner undue hardship and could jeopardize security. in Adrian every week, instead of switching to St. Peter the Apostle, now Light of Christ Parish, in Blissfield. They are extraordinary ministers of holy Communion, sing in the choir and have served on the parish council. Jane is a lector, while Randy is active in the Knights of

did not worry about him before his retirement. “We know what training we’ve had,” Randy explains. He believes Jane is prepared for anything, and trusts her ability to navigate every situation she encounters. “It’s a benefit,” Jane agrees.

Many prisoners are lonely and seek romantic involvement with a female pen pal. This is absolutely forbidden. The volunteer and the prisoner are free to end the pen pal relationship at any time for any reason. Should this occur, we ask to be notified by the volunteer. We do not allow visits or telephone calls to prisoners. Photographs may not be exchanged. This ministry is meant to be supportive to prisoners only through letters. Before inmates are allowed to write, we require them to read and sign guidelines that ask them to pray daily and to conduct their correspondence as a Christian friend. It is the hope of the Pen Pal Program that the volunteers would see themselves first and foremost as extending the love of Christ to the prisoners with whom they correspond. The volunteers are encouraged to share their personal experience of their faith and how God is present in their lives or how He has helped in the past. Daily prayer and reflection on the Scriptures is highly recommended. The volunteers are asked, as well, to pray daily for their pen pal; mindful of the burden that they have. Please call Joe Dionese at the Diocese of Lansing, if interested – 517.3422495

says they trust each other, and respect the difficulties of working in law enforcement. They have experienced long hours, working on holidays and potential danger from both the officer and spouse point-of-view. Despite the risks, Randy does not worry about Jane and she

Faith has guided Randy and Jane through rough times in their lives, supported them in their careers in law enforcement, and helped them build a strong marriage. “Things happen for a reason,” Randy says. “God has provided for us very well.”

By Mary Kay McCormack | Photography by Jim Luning

Y O U R

S T O R I E S

my story

new outlook, new life

Bob Villa lets go and lets God

e had gotten out of prison three years earlier on a robbery conviction. Sitting there that night, Bob Villa knew he should be making a different choice. Still, he and his friend broke into the ATM machine in a failed attempt to get the cash. Fleeing from the police, Bob’s friend was thrown from the car and run over by the police cruiser. Bob tried to run, until a police dog viciously brought him down. Before long, he was back in prison, serving 12 years.

“Time didn’t mean nothing to me then,” Bob says, looking back. “The only time I needed God was when I was in trouble or wanted something. I had gotten myself into trouble this time and I thought I had to get myself out. If I had relied on God, instead of myself, I’d never have been

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

back there. “Being locked up, I had time to learn a lot of things – especially humility You know the phrase ‘let go and let God?’ That’s about all you can do in prison. I’d get up. Sometimes I’d eat breakfast, sometimes not. Go to work for a few pen-

“Because of good behavior, my parole board never actually had to meet. They What is the Office of granted me parole without a hearing and Restorative Justice? sent me home. “I was lucky to get a job within the first The Diocese of Lansing’s Office week. My boss has given me a place to of Restorative Justice serves incarstay and the people at Restorative Justice cerated people and their families have helped me with counseling so I can in more than 25 prisons, jails and work on my marriage. I see God in those youth facilities across our diocese. things. Its clergy and lay volunteers seek to “I always believed in the Catholic faith, bring gospel values to bear on the and I know my parents tried to bring us criminal justice system by promoting up right in it. I guess I just wasn’t living reconciliation, healing and restituit – stealing cars, breaking and entering, tion to victims and opportunities for breaking into that ATM. But in the proreform and self-improvement. (See cess of being in prison I studied the faith the graph on Restorative versus and brought myself and others to God. Traditional Justice.) “One day, Bishop Mengeling came to Recognizing that incarcerated visit us in prison. He told a story about men’s and women’s families also fishing with his father. His dad told him bear a heavy burden, the Office to watch as he threw a rock into the of Restorative Justice provides pond. As the waves stretched out across physical and spiritual support to the water, his dad told him the rock and prisoners’ immediate families as the waves were like our lives. Our actions well. It also supports paroled men nies an hour cleaning bathrooms, cutting have a ripple effect that reaches way and women seeking to re-establish trees, shoveling snow. For a while, I was a beyond ourselves. Whatever you do, you normal lives outside the correcdog trainer. I loved that! affect others by your actions, he told us. tional system. “Sometimes there was violence, but “I’ve thought about that in the last few In addition to weekly visits you could usually avoid it – usually. It months and it made me realize how my and family support, the Office of depended on where you put yourself. I’d going to prison affected my family and Restorative Justice runs one of the work out, eat dinner, then watch TV. my friends. Just going through and thinknation’s largest and most success“I talked to my wife and sons on the ing about it is a real change. In the past I ful Prisoner Pen Pal programs. phone quite a lot. When I was down in would have just said they did me wrong If you’d like to volunteer in this Coldwater and my youngest son was and thought only about myself. Now rewarding ministry – either inside little, they’d visit me once or twice a year. I understand better and I think about or outside prisons or jails – contact Then, when I was transferred up to Ojibwhere they’re coming from. Joe Dionese at 517.3422495. way on the Wisconsin border, it was two “I try to make wise choices and to learn or three years between visits. from my mistakes. I can tell you over and “I can’t tell you enough about how the to see them again after so long – exciting, over that I’ve changed, but the only way Restorative Justice program has helped us happy and sad all at once. I knew I wasn’t I can prove it is by my actions. Now I go while I was locked up and since I’ve been going home with them that day, but to to church regularly and I’m working to out. Anything they can help with, they be with them again was worth it. We had protect my marriage and my sons. It isn’t do. When money was tight, they helped two or three hours to visit before they had easy, but I’m trying. my wife with bills and food. At least one to leave. “The blessing of being in prison was Christmas they studying my faith, helped with gifts so I can see God and money, too. gives me crosses Restorative justice: A different approach “They also paid to carry, but also Traditional justice: Restorative justice: for my wife and to help me learn. youngest son There are always Seeks to address conflict and misconAddresses misconduct by asking to visit me just choices to make. duct by asking “What harm has been “What rule was broken and what are before my parole Our natural drives caused and how do we heal it?” the consequences?” board hearing. I can take us closer Engages the offender, victim and all Most often has a judge and attorneys think they covered to God or drive us deciding what the offender deserves affected people in identifying the harm her gas and a hotel farther away. From and deciding how to heal it. without input from affected people. nearby.” now on, the only Holds the offender accountable by Holds the offender accountable by Bob smiles and choice I have is fulfilling the necessary steps to heal punishment – usually removing him/ inhales deeply. “It God, and I know the harm as much as possible. her from their community for a time. felt breathtaking I’m not alone.” By Nancy Schertzing | Photography by Tom Gennara

yourcommun things to do

things to do Cristo Rey Parish’s Knights of Columbus Friday Lenten Fish Fry – all you can eat starting on Feb.10, continuing until March 30, 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Cost is $9 adult, $8 senior 65 and over, $5 children 6-12 and free for 5 and under. Feb. 17- March 30, 4:30 p.m.7:30 p.m., Friday Lenten Fish Fry at St. Mary Parish Life Center, 707 St. Mary Blvd., Charlotte. Cost is adults $8, children $4, free for 4 and under. Also $25 immediate family rate for a husband, wife and children, or for grandparents and grandchildren. For information, call 517.543.4319. Feb. 24- March 30, 5 p.m.-7 p.m., St. Casimir Parish, Lansing, Friday Lenten Fish Fry – all you can eat fried perch and smelt with fries, coleslaw, mac ‘n cheese, roll and beverages. Take out is available. Call 517.482.1346 for information. Feb. 24- March 30, 4 p.m.-7:30 p.m., St. John Friday Lenten Fish Fry, 2099 N. Hacker Rd., Howell, in Thompson Hall. for carryout orders call 517.546.9154. Lenten Soup and Substance Program, St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, East Lansing, on Wednesday evenings Feb. 29-March 28, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. in Father Mac Hall. Prayer, simple soup and roll meal at 6 p.m. followed by speaker from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. For information, contact Deacon Al Weilbaecher, 517.351.5460 or al@elcatholics.org.

March café events Catholicism, a 10-part series designed for anyone interested in learning more about what Catholics believe, will be presented at the Catholic Community of St. Jude in DeWitt. Following each episode there will be small and large group discussion. No cost for participating, but advance registration is necessary. To register, call Tina at 517.669.8335 ext. 13. Schedule choices are Tuesdays, 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m., Feb. 28- May 8 or Wednesdays, 8:45 a.m.-10:15 a.m., Feb. 29-May 9. Catholicism DVD series with Father Robert Barron will be presented at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, East Lansing, Monday evenings, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., Feb. 27-May 14 in Father. Mac Hall. For information, contact Deacon Al Weilbaecher, 517.351.5460 or al@elcatholics.org. March 3, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Genesis to Jesus, Parish Bible Study – Presenter Training at St. Casimir Parish Hall in Lansing. Cost is $50, includes breakfast (7:30 a.m.), lunch and all teaching manuals. Registration deadline is Feb. 24. For information or to register, contact Deacon

Feb. 24-25, Marriage Matters of Jackson will have “All About Us,” at Camp Michindoh in Hillsdale, to impart skills to gain satisfaction and lessen stress in your relationship. April 12, 19 and 26, Marriage Links – enjoy three weeks of dinner and dates at Cascades Manor House. A special discount of 50 percent off for Catholic couples, thanks to the Diocese of Lansing. Register by calling 517.796.5116 or go to www.MarriageMattersJackson.com and use special code MMJ12. Feb. 26-28, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., St. Joseph, Howell will have a parish

Free hot meals in Livingston County: 5:30 p.m., Sun., the Fish and Loaves community meal is provided by rotating churches in the Brighton area. Call 734.718.6009 or 810.229.4377, for information on each week’s location. 6 p.m., Mon., Magdalen’s Kitchen at St. Mary Magdalen Parish, 2201

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

Jerry Brennan, 517.342.2451 or gbrennan@dioceseoflansing.org or Deborah Amato, 517.342.2512 or damato@dioceseoflansing.org. Catechist Formation Opportunities: March 3, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., St. Mary, 509 N. Main St., Morrice, topics: #7, Mystery of the Triune God; #12, Part A-B, Liturgy and Worship; and #17, Key People of the Old Testament. Total day $25 includes lunch. To register: www.dioceseoflansing.org/catechesis_k12/MAR_12_MORRICE.pdf. Lenten Speaker Series at St. John Vianney Church, 2415 Bagley St., Flint – Tuesdays, 7 p.m.-9 p.m. in the parish center, entrance off the parking lot below the school. For information, contact parish office 810.235.1812. Feb. 28, Imam Mohamad Algalaieni from the Grand Blanc Islamic Center March 6, Mr. Phillip Helms will speak about the Quakers. Mar.13, Dr. John Musgrave from First Presbyterian Church Mar 20, Pastor James Britt from Calvary Methodist March 27, Pastor Steve Maske from St. Paul Lutheran

mission – Jesus’ Healing Love – he heals the broken heart and binds up the wounds. Refreshments in the evening and a luncheon on Feb. 28 at 12:30 p.m. March 4, St. Patrick’s Feast Benefit to support moms and babies of the Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County’s Father Patrick Jackson House will be at St. John the Baptist in Ypsilanti with Mass at 4 p.m. and a traditional Irish dinner and music at 5 p.m. Cost is $75 per person. For reservations or sponsorship opportunities, call Leah Ann Kleinfeldt at 734.971.9781 ext. 332.

March 15, 6 p.m.-8 p.m., 3rd annual IHM/St. Casimir Career Night aimed at elementary and middle school students will inspire organizations to support educational programs. Event is free to recruiters. Recruiters are asked to provide something hands on for students to experience. All faiths are welcome to participate. For information and to register, contact Angela Johnston, principal at 517.882.6631. Lansing Catholic Singles invite singles mid-30s-60s: March 3, 4 p.m. Mass at St. Mary Cathedral and dinner at Michigan Brewery Company; March 23, 5:20 p.m.

Old US 23, Brighton. For more information, call 810.229.8624. 6 p.m., Wed., God’s Kitchen at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 425 E. Washington St., Howell. For more information, call 517.546.0090. 6 p.m., Thurs., St. Agnes Catholic Church, 855 E. Grand River Ave., Fowlerville. For more information, call 517.223.8684. Noon, Fri., First United Methodist Church, 400 E. Grand River Ave., Brighton. For more information, call 810.632.2155. Noon, Sat. at Shalom Lutheran Church, 1740 M-36 in Putnam Township. For more information, call 734.878.6859.

nity Fish Fry at St. Casmir Church in Lansing and movie night; and March 3, 5 p.m. Happy Hour at Pizza House in East Lansing. For details and complete calendar of events, www.LansingCatholicSingles.com, phone 517.321.7886 or email LansingCatholicSingles@ live.com. New members always are welcome. March 5-7, 7 p.m.-8 p.m., St. Mary Church, Williamston, welcomes all to a parish mission presented by Father Geoff Rose, an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales, on Salesian spirituality. The sacrament of reconciliation will be offered after each session. For information, contact the parish office at 517.655.2620. March 9-11, St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt, REFLECT Catholic Retreat for Mid-Life Singles – looking to grow in faith and meet new friends? Single men and women, mid 30s-50s, register today for a life-changing weekend. Cost of $145 per person covers meals, lodging and materials. For information, call 989.450.0993 or www.reflectretreat.com.

Catholic Charities Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale Counties, 517.782.2551 or www.catholiccharitiesjacksonhlenaweehillsdale.org March 24, Smart Steps for Stepfamilies is a diocesan marriage prep program for remarriage couples. Pre-registration with payment is required. For information, call 517.782.2551. Livingston Catholic Charities, 2020 E. Grand River, Ste. 104, Howell, 517.545.5944 or www.livingstoncatholiccharities.org March 6-7, 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m., We C.A.R.E. diocesan marriage preparation class at St. Patrick Parish, Brighton. For information or to register, call 517.545.5944. March 13, 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m., Alzheimer’s Support Group meeting for caregivers and those dealing with Alzheimer. Catholic Social Services, 4925 Packard Rd., Ann Arbor, 734.971.9781 or ww.csswashtenaw.org, We C.A.R.E. diocesan communication and relationship enhancement program for couples getting married: March 9-10, St. Joseph Parish, 3430 Dover St., Dexter; March 30-31, St. Mary, 14200 Old US 12, Chelsea; and April 20-21, Holy Trinity, 511 W. Forest Ave., Ypsilanti; May 4-5, Catholic Social Services, 4925 Packard, Ann Arbor; and May 18-19, St. Francis of Assisi, 2150 Frieze, Ann Arbor. Cost $95, early registration required, call 734.971.9781 ext. 421.

Retreat Centers Weber Center, Adrian, 517.266.400 or www.weber.adriandominicans March 9-11, Women’s Retreat – Mother Night and Seeing in the Dark April 1-4, On the Way to Jerusalem.

March 10, 1 p.m.-9 p.m., Middle School Rally at Powers Catholic High School, Flint; all youth in grades 6-8 are eligible to attend, but they must be registered as part of a parish/school group. Early registration fee for the rally is $30 – deadline Feb. 18. If interested in attending, contact your parish director of religious education or coordinator of youth ministry to register.

July 19-21, 2012, the National Black Catholic Congress XI – Faith Engaged – will be held at the J.W. Marriott Hotel in Indianapolis. Workshops include evangelization methods, healing family seminar, vocations and religious life, conflict resolution, technology, youth and young adult tracks and more. Information, hotel reservation and registration are provided at www.nbccongress.org.

March 23-24, Michigan Catholic Young Adult Conference (18-35) will be at Causeway Bay Hotel, 6820 S. Cedar St. in Lansing. For more information, contact Pat Rinker, 517.342.2485 or prinker@dioceseoflansing.org. See the MICYAC website at www. micyac.org.

Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, 3815 S. Cedar St., Lansing, will have rosary making classes in the parish office on the first Saturday of the month following its

March 29, 7 p.m., St. Joseph Church, 415 Ormsby St. in Adrian will have a Taize Service. All are welcome to attend.

Pilgrimage May 17-25, Father John Rocus of Holy Spirit Church in Brighton is hosting a St. Philomena Pilgrimage to Mugnano, Italy. It includes visits to Assisi, Pompeii, the Amalfi

8 a.m. Mass and at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays following first Saturdays. No classes on April 7 or July through September. All ages are welcome. There is no charge for supplies and work is done at home. It is a great family project. Especially needed are individuals to make military rosaries. For information, call 517.393.3030. Advocacy Re-Entry Resources Outreach (ARRO) provides assistance to those recently paroled to the Lansing area. ARRO provides mentoring, direct aid and encouragement to ex-offenders. They are encouraged to attend Coast and Rome. The pilgrimage will conclude with Mass in the catacomb of St Priscilla. For more information, visit www.hsrcc.net. Oct. 19-29, Pilgrimage to Italy led by Father James Lothamer and Father James Eisele. Itinerary

Diocese of Lansing ASL interpreted Mass St. Thomas the Apostle, 517 Elizabeth St., Ann Arbor at 9 a.m. the third Sunday of each month. St. Gerard Church, 4436 W. Willow St., Lansing at 4:30 p.m., Jan. 21, Feb. 18, Mar.10 and 31, May 19 and June 9; and Apr. 8, 9 a.m. St Jude Church, 801 N. Bridge St., DeWitt at 8:30 a.m. every Sunday and by request at 5 p.m. on Saturday. Call Denise at 517.881.9641. St. Mary Cathedral, 219 Seymour St., Lansing at 2 p.m., Jan. 8, Feb. 12 and 26, April 22 and May 6; 2:30 p.m., April 15 and June 24; and 4 p.m., March 17 and May 12. St. Mary Queen of Angels, 4413 Morrish Rd., Swartz Creek and St. John the Evangelist, 600 N. Adelaide St., Fenton – a complete 2012 Mass schedule is located on the diocesan website at www. dioceseoflansing.org/deafhh/ Flint_Fenton_ASL_Mass_Schedule_2011_12.pdf. Statewide interpreter directory is available at www6.dleg.state. mi.us/interpreter/. church services and volunteers provide transportation to these services. The office is located at NorthWest Initiative - North Neighborhood Center; 530 W. Ionia St., Suite D, Lansing. The website is www.nwlansing.org and the outreach worker is Monica Jahner, 517.999.2894. Retrouvaille is a Christian peer ministry designed to help heal troubled marriages. The next Retrouvaille program weekend in Lansing is April 13-15 at St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt. For more information, call 800.470.2230 or go to www.retrouvaille.org includes two nights in Venice, two nights in Florence, two nights in Assisi, three nights in Rome and stops in Padua and Siena. Cost is $2,550 plus airfare. Trip coordinated by Fuller Travel Service in Lansing. You can contact Father Lothamer at jwlothamer@aol.com.

local news Marriage Matters of Jackson has a new development director Amy Pelletier is the new development director for Marriage Matters of Jackson. She believes healthy marriages lead to healthy families and wants the Jackson community to benefit from marriage education. Her goals is to helps couples increase laughter and love in their marriages. Pelletier also is a facilitator for We C.A.R.E workshops for Catholic couples preparing for marriage.

Michigan high school football player of the year Lansing Catholic High School senior Cooper Rush was named Michigan ESPN Gatorade Football Player of the Year. The recognition is based on athletics, academic achievement and personal character, as well as his community involvement – much of which is based on his Catholic faith. Rush’s community involvement includes donating his time as a peer tutor, serving as head of the Youth Action Committee of the Capital Region Community Foundation; volunteering locally on behalf of a hospital, a preschool, Catholic Charities, Hospice of Charlotte, Rotary Club of Charlotte and Eaton County Clothing; and Furniture repair and Battle Creek river cleanup efforts.

Supervised care for adults and their care-givers Livingston County Catholic Charities Be Our Guest Adult Day Service has received grant money. Some was used to have a mural painted in the main multi-purpose room to provide a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for guests to enjoy while exercising or doing other activities. The Adult Day Center is an invaluable resource for individuals and families dealing with dementia and forms of dementia such as Alzheimer. It provides needed comfort for participants and a respite for family members and care-givers. This program is offered on a cost share basis to the uninsured. For more information, contact Pam at 517.546.9910.

Catholic Turkey Bowl The 5th and 6th grade Chargers at St. Pius X battled the St. John Vianney Vikings on the frozen tundra in their second annual Turkey Bowl football game. This game is growing into a tradition. It started when Principal R.J. Kaplan, coach of the Chargers, and Lawrence Morrison, coach of the Vikings, decided their students should become better acquainted – since they will be teammates in a few years at Powers Catholic High School.

Silent Solidarity Lumen Christi and Jackson High School joined 100 Michigan schools and 2,150 schools nationwide in a day of silent solidarity for the more than 50 million babies that have had their voices silenced through abortion. Life was written across the red duct tape the students wore on their shirt sleeves or “Smile, your mom chose life” shirts. Allyson Emmert and Adam Jones, seniors at Lumen Christi High School, both stated they are against abortion and the taking of lives of innocent babies. “I am proud of our students who stand up for a worthy cause. There is nothing more important than life,” said Principal Pat Kalahar. – Jan Hoffbauer

Maryknoll Missions Most Holy Trinity Church, Fowler celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Maryknoll Missions and the 25th anniversary of the death of Msgr. Albert Koenigsknecht, MM, who was from the parish. He is buried in Juli, Peru. Msgr. Koenigsknecht was ordained in 1945, spent three years in Mexico and then was transferred to Peru. He always had wanted to be a missionary priest and he willingly worked with the under-privileged people in Peru until his death in1986. He was named an apostolic administrator of Juli Prelature in Peru. For more information on the Maryknoll Missions, visit www. maryknoll.org. – Jan Hoffbauer

New album by Brian Flynn, director of music at St. Mary, Westphalia Born Again is Brian’s fourth studio release, featuring 12 original contemporary songs, including songs about the Eucharist, the Catholic understanding of salvation and a song that Brian composed to sing to his wife on their wedding day. This album is sure to teach and inspire. Visit www.brianflynnmusic.com or the Rosary Book and Gift Shop in Lansing to get your copy.

FAITH Magazine / March/Lent 2012 / www.FAITHmag.com

What do we mean by ‘justice’?

last word

here are a number of definitions for justice, depending upon what kind of justice is being talked about. Justice is fairness. Justice is proper conviction for a crime. Justice is not retribution, nor is it vengeance. Justice is a balancing of equities. Justice is rendering what is due to the disputing parties, the complainant and defendant alike. Even that balancing may not be true justice, because there will be questions as to who determines “what is due.”

A criminal trial is not a search for justice, nor a search for truth, nor for vengeance. No. A criminal trial searches for only one thing, guilt beyond a reasonable doubt based on credible and admissible evidence. If you are speaking of “justice,” don’t seek it in a courtroom. A young lawyer

once famously asked Supreme Court Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes to give justice. To which Justice Holmes replied: “This is a court of law,

young man, not a court of justice.” The law is concerned with rules of procedure, rules of admissible evidence and providing a fair and impartial forum in which the litigants may ethically argue their cases. This is what a court of law offers, nothing more. Philosophers, moralists and theologians seek justice, try to define justice and promote the search for it. Courts do not. All that I have said here proves that there must be a God. Without God, we wouldn’t even be talking about justice.

Father Charles Irvin is the founding editor of FAITH Magazine and is retired.

Victim assistance coordinator If you have been abused or victimized by someone representing the Catholic Church, please believe in the possibility for hope, help and healing. We encourage you to come forward and speak out. Every diocese in the United States now has a victim assistance coordinator who is available to obtain support for your needs, to help make a formal complaint of abuse to the diocese and to arrange a personal meeting with the bishop or his representative if you desire. The victim assistance coordinator for the Diocese of Lansing is Adrienne Rowland, LMSW,ACSW. Her telephone number is 1.888.3086252; and her email is arowlandvac@dioceseoflansing.org.

The Diocese of Lansing celebrates its 75th Anniversary this year Can you who are these priests?

Cordinadora de asistencia a las víctimas Si has sido víctima de abuso por alguien que representa la Iglesia Católica, por favor, cree en la posibilidad de esperanza, de ayuda y sanación. Te exhortamos a presentarte y declarar. Cada (arqui) diócesis/eparquía en Estados Unidos tiene ahora un coordinador o coordinadora de asistencia a las víctimas a quien puedes acudir para que te apoye en tus necesidades, te ayude a hacer una denuncia formal de abuso ante la (arqui)diócesis/eparquía, y a solicitar una reunión personal con el obispo o su representante, si así lo deseas. La coordinadora de asistencia a las víctimas en tu (arqui) diócesis/ eparquía es Adrienne Rowland, LMSW,ACSW, 1.888.308.6252 or arowlandvac@dioceseoflansing.org

If you know these priests and where this was taken, drop us a line on our Facebook page. Answers next month! Last month’s answer: St Mary, Queen of Angels, Swartz Creek. Pictured left to right are: Mary Wittbrodt, Sister Mary Angelita, SSJ, Joseph George, Janette Nemecek, Sister Winifred, SSJ, Lary Kleindler and Kathleen Yosko in the ‘new’ library that opened in March, 1965.

For more local news and parish events, visit www.FAITHmag.com

notes:

See Dt 15:7-8

Follow FAITH Magazine online: p l e a s e

r e c y c l e

Digital Editions on FAITHmag.com