March 2014

i n s i d e :

What are you doing for Lent? i n t h e k n o w w i t h F r . J o e :

My parish closed and I hate the changes f r o m

t h e

b i s h o p :

The life of the domestic church

Lent challenges us in a good way

like Lent. I like the ways that Lent can challenge me to be quiet by spending more time in prayer. As pastor of a busy parish community, quiet is something that can be in short supply at times. Yet Lent forces me to slow down a little bit, becoming more deliberate in my personal prayer time, even as the Church’s liturgy takes on a more deliberate, reserved tone and sense. Having the opportunity to prayerfully rest in the presence of God can feel a bit like resting on an island in the midst of an ocean.

T. Gennara

I like Lent. Lent challenges me to master my appetites – both the appetite that results from the rumbling of my hungry stomach – and the other appetites that can get too easily out of balance at other times of the year. For instance, I can have an appetite for approval from others. Like any person, I want to know that what I do and who I am actually makes a difference to others. Lent challenges me to let go of that quest. It helps me to refocus my attention on my daily efforts and ministry so they are undertaken in a manner that, I pray, is pleasing to God, regardless of what my fellow humans may think or feel. I also can have an unhealthy appetite for perfection in what I do. This appetite can drive me to work relentlessly at some small task until it is, in my estimation, just right. This appetite can lead me to a feeling of being out-of-balance and it can get pretty tiresome at times. Lent encourages me back to a kind of healthy balance. It helps me to see that I can do from the editor something well enough and then move Father Dwight Ezop is editor of FAITH on to the next task. My work does not Magazine and pastor of St. John the Evangelist need to be perfect but I do need to allow in Fenton. Email: editor@FAITHpub.com. myself to be perfected by God’s love over time. I like Lent. There are times when I can be pretty selfish. I may think that I deserve or have earned a particular item as a reward for my sacrifice or my hard work. Lent forces me to shift my gaze away from what I think I might need to look more realistically at the needs of others and how I can work to meet them. By forcing me to think of others’ needs before my own, Lent helps me to practice the habit and the virtue of charity. Lent reminds me that Jesus did not think about his own needs. His focus is forever on our needs – most especially the need for forgiveness and mercy. As we make our way into the challenging season of Lent, we have the opportunity to once again encounter its beautiful pillars of prayer, fasting and charity. These Lenten lessons and disciplines are not meant to be contained solely within the approaching 40 days. These are lessons that help us to live in right relationship with God and with one another, each and every day. The Lenten disciplines of prayer, fasting and charity remind us to honor God each day by growing in relationship with him and focusing more of our energy on our relationships with our sisters and brothers in Christ. Have a blessed and holy Lent! And so, our journey in FAITH continues. 2

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

Abide in love when persecuted St. Cyril of Jerusalem Feast Day: March 18

St. Cyril of Jerusalem (315–386) lived in a time of continuous conflict due to heresies and the enemies created by these heresies. Caught in the many power struggles between Arians (those who believed Jesus was not divine or one with the Father) and those remaining faithful to the Church’s teaching, Cyril was exiled multiple times from Jerusalem, where he was bishop. One period of exile from his native Jerusalem lasted 11 years. While St. Cyril could have responded to his many exiles with anger and a spirit of vengeance, he chose to focus on the healing power of forgiveness and the Holy Spirit. He truly believed forgiveness holds the power to turn those in pain toward the light of God – and he lived this belief. Throughout his exiles, he never wrote anything negative or showed ill will toward those who wronged him. In short, Cyril sought to be like Christ, who maintained his faith and forgave all those who betrayed him and engaged in his execution. When encountering persecution, Jesus, and St. Cyril, did not repay violence with violence – did not repay sin with sin. Instead, as Cyril writes, “I gave my back to those who beat me and my cheeks to blows; and my face I did not shield from the shame of spitting.” He decided, like Christ, to abide in love, thereby breaking the chain of hate.

Liturgical Calendar: St. Katharine Drexel, virgin March 3 | St. Casimir of Poland March 4 | Ash Wednesday Marc

contents

March 2014

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work life I’m short and I think it’s affecting my career conflict resolution What should I do about my neighbor’s kid who is a bully? parenting journey My husband is setting a bad example – How do I get him to buckle up? your marriage matters He says: “I want to save our marriage, but she wants a divorce.” She says: “I can’t trust him anymore, so I don’t see any other way.” What do they do? culture Lighting the way of the cross

COVER STORY After a Cursillo weekend, Bill is living “the fourth day”

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in the know with Father Joe 10 My parish closed and I hate the changes fitness 12 s Apiritual different approach to Lent 101 14 t Theology he Second Commandment

yourstories

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J. Luning

profile of an evangelist Feeling the power of faith sharing my story Teresa’s most important gift to herself for 30 years – A women’s retreat Ann Jacob MANAGING EDITOR The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing Volume 15: Issue 2 www.FAITHpub.com Most Reverend Earl Boyea PUBLISHER Rev. Dwight Ezop EDITOR AND CHAIRMAN

www.FAITHcatholic.com Patrick M. O’Brien PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Elizabeth Martin Solsburg DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING/ EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Cynthia Vandecar MARKETING MANAGER Patrick Dally ART DIRECTOR Michelle Hildebrandt WEBMASTER Jillane Job EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

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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. ©2013 FAITH Catholic. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Catholic.

yourlife I’m short and I think it’s affecting my career

I am a 5-foot-4-inch man and I really feel as if my height is having a negative impact on my career. There are some studies that back me up. Is there anything I can do to overcome my size?

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melaniereyesphotography

You bet. Stop reading the studies. Stop thinking short. Stop your negative introspection. Stop anticipating failure. Stop comparing. Make a list of 20 personal accomplishments. Get excited about your strengths. Build your unique competencies. Anticipate success. Seize your opportunities. Ponder the mindsets of men small in stature but large in accomplishment. Little Napoleon (after whom the short man’s overcompensating complex is named) was a mighty general. 5-foot 3-inch Muggsy Bogues had a 14-year NBA career. 5-foot-tall Danny DeVito and 5-foot-4-inch Michael J. Fox made it plenty work life big in Hollywood. In the divine genius, our Jim Berlucchi is the executive director of the problems can be our opporSpitzer Center, whose tunities; our weaknesses can mission is to build cultures of evangelization become our strengths. The (www.spitzercenter.org). Church rejected the notion of Your height is incidental, but your character is intentional. Leverpredestination – we are not pre-assigned to heaven or hell. She also rejects determinism and age your physical disadvantage into a character advantage. Focus on what you have, not what you lack, and relish your God-given fatalism – we are not the slaves of circumstances, natural limitations or horoscopes. Just the opposite. We are free to choose, to abilities. Believe in God for a bright future. Put on the natural confidence befitting a son of God and overcome and to hope, regardless of our don’t be afraid to exhibit it. Confidence plus circumstances and limitations. competence, rooted in faith and humility, King Saul has been described as a What do you think? have a powerful effect. And don’t neglect “head and shoulders man.” Handsome in Continue the conversation on the standard advice: stand erect, look visage, he was physically imposing. But people straight in the eyes, extend a strong inside he thought little of himself. As Israel’s handshake, etc. And, by the way, it doesn’t first king, his disastrous reign ended in a Follow FAITHpub hurt to have a sense of humor about being tragic death. Tall exterior, but short interior. vertically challenged. People like others Zaccheus was so small he had to climb a who are comfortable in their own skin. sycamore tree to see the Savior. Ironically, Jesus looked up to him. Large in faith and repentance, he received Sure, height might be an advantage. But a superlative performance will overshadow a diminutive stature – and have the tall salvation with joy and is chronicled in the canon of the Scriptures. guys looking up to you. Short exterior, but tall interior (and ample Jewish chutzpah!). 4

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

St. Cyril of Jerusalem, bishop and doctor of the Church March 18 | St. Joseph, sp

What are you doing for Lent?

Main image: ©iStockphoto.com/vitanovski, Alcohol: ©iStockphoto.com/mjbs, Sweets: ©iStockphoto.com/eans, Cursing: ©iStockphoto.com/IntergalacticDesignStudio, Social Media: ©iStockphoto.com/temizyurek, Television: ©iStockphoto.com/PashaIgnatov, Ashes: CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz

We asked our Facebook followers: “What are you doing for Lent?” Here are some of their answers.

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Here are some of the things you are giving up for Lent:

are giving something up

re Here a e th f o e som u o y said things doing you are t this for Len year:

are doing something positive

ALCOHOL • dairy products • soda pop • coffee • junk food • eggs • negative speech • chocolate Stopping gossiping • Spending more time with my family and incorporating more prayer in my life. • Reading A Year With John Paul II: Daily Meditations From His Writings and Prayers • Volunteering • We are putting together 5 backpacks filled with things that the homeless may find helpful like a pair of mittens, socks, hats, hygiene supplies, ready-to-eat food like granola bars, water and an issue of FAITH magazine. We will be handing them out as we see someone who may benefit from one of the backpacks.

What are the top 5 things people give up for Lent?

Alcohol

Sweets

Cursing

Social media

Television

Ash Wednesday: What does that mean? Ashes have a long history in the Jewish and Christian faiths. They symbolize mourning and penance – a fitting start to the penitential season of Lent. In the Old Testament, we find Job repenting while wearing sackcloth and ashes. In the Middle Ages, someone near death was laid on sackcloth sprinkled with ashes to receive a blessing from the priest. You’ll hear that same blessing if you go to church on Ash Wednesday – “Remember that you are dust and unto dust you shall return.”

Did you go to a Catholic school? Go to our survey on Facebook and let us know.

pouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary March 19 | Third Sunday of Lent March 23 | Annunciation of the Lord March 25 | Fourth Sunday of Lent March 30

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S. Kendrick

conflict resolution Dr. Gelasia Marquez is a psychologist and family counselor.

What should I do about my neighbor’s kid who is a bully?

My neighbor’s son is a bully who scares the kids in the neighborhood. His parents seem oblivious – is there something I can or should do?

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

My husband is setting a bad example How do I get him to buckle up?

My husband won’t wear a seat belt. The kids are now questioning why they need to stay in their booster seats if Dad doesn’t need to wear his restraint. I think this is setting a bad example – how can I get him to buckle up?

Address the emotional response. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Motor Vehicle Safety site reports that, “Wearing a seat belt is the most effective way to prevent death and serious injury in a crash.” But knowing this fact doesn’t change the emotional response or anxiety that your husband may feel. Talk to your husband about his reasons for avoiding the use of a seat belt. Is he concerned about being It’s the law! Whether your trapped in the car? Several husband wears a seat belt manufacturers make tools or not, you are obligated to that can cut through seat make sure your children are! belts and break through Every state in the country has parenting the safety glass of car windows. Knowing that this a law regarding child restraint journey tool is stowed in the glove devices when riding in a car. Dr. Cathleen The laws vary regarding the compartment or interior McGreal is type of restraint required at car bin may reduce his a psychology professor and anxiety. Wearing a seat belt each age/weight and there certified spiritual increases the chances that also are differences in terms director. he will avoid head injury of enforcement. Most state and be alert enough to use laws allow the police to pull the tool. If his anxiety is intense, treatover a vehicle solely on the basis of a ment by a licensed psychologist using child-restraint violation (these are primary cognitive-behavioral therapy is effective enforcement states). What about adults? If you and your husband are traveling for treating phobias. through New Hampshire, then his behavior remains within the law. But in the other Once individuals become parents, 49 states and the District of Columbia, he the phrase “Practice what you preach” is violating a law regarding seat belt use if becomes quite salient. Rememberhe is sitting in the front seat (and even in ing the words of the psalmist may be the back seat in many states). Picking and encouraging when trying to overcome choosing which motor vehicle laws to obey these emotional hurdles: “When cares is not a behavior most parents want to increase within me, your comfort gives model for their children. me joy.” (Psalm 94:19)

When my father-in-law rode in our car we had to address this issue, too. He was convinced that his chance of surviving an accident would be much better if he was not restrained. The thought of traveling on a bridge over water was particularly nerve-racking to him. How would he swim to safety if he was buckled in? Your husband may have similar fears, and overcoming them can be a challenge.

T. Gennara

Yes, you should do something. Bullying is a tough problem and all of us should be involved in preventing and stopping it. As Ephesians 4:32 reminds us, it is important to “Be kind to one another.” First, it is important to gather and record information about the bullying events you have witnessed or heard about. Do not interrogate kids or parents in the neighborhood but ask questions conversationally to determine what has occurred and to get the details of the incident(s). Then, contact the parents of the bully child. Use your judgment to select the proper time. Some parents of bullies are terrific parents and will deal with the problem; others will not understand your concerned approach or cooperate with you. It will help if you simply describe their child’s behavior, instead of labeling it, and keep your own judgment and emotion out of it. This will help avoid a negative reaction to your comments. Finally, if the parents seem receptive, you can offer the names of resources in the community that may be able to help. Reassure them that you are available to help, as well.

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He says

SHe says

“I want to save our marriage, but she wants a divorce.”

Karen says: : I am really happy that Josh got some counseling and is turning his life around. But his behavior made me feel belittled. I am ready for divorce.

©iStockphoto.com/LisaValder

Josh says: I have had some anger issues and have taken them out on my wife. She got tired of me yelling and asked for a separation. I have been in counseling and am a changed man. I want to save our marriage, but Karen wants a divorce.

“I can’t trust him anymore, so I don’t see any other way.”

What do THEY do?

hile divorce is always to be avoided, there is no room for emotional or physical abuse within marriage. It is sad to hear, “I am ready for divorce,” because there are many options to explore that do not include divorce, but do fulfill God’s plan for marriage.

T. Gennara

If one spouse is having an anger problem, it affects the relationship, which impacts both spouses. It is unfortunate (from the information provided) that only Josh attended counseling. There are two humans within a marriage, each supporting the other, and if one is experiencing an issue, it does affect the other. One person’s out-of-control behavior affects the entire family unit and, therefore, the whole family should be a part of the counseling paradigm (even if only in a support role learning how to cope or how not to be an enabler). your As for Karen and Josh, we see hope marriage in the description of their situation. Josh admits to his wrong, has sought help, has matters asked for forgiveness and desires another Deacon Tom chance. Both of them will have to engage and JoAnne Fogle help in some rather intense searching of the prepare couples heart if they hope to save their marriage. for marriage. We are reminded of Romans 15:5, which says, “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to think in harmony with one another …” They must communicate intently, learn how to control anger and truly learn how to forgive as Jesus forgives each of our faults. Just as our relationship with God can be healed, our marital

relationships can be healed. It takes time and patience, assistance from the Holy Spirit and possibly from a trained family counselor who subscribes to God’s plan for marriage, but, above all, it starts with Josh and Karen making a decision to love and forgive.

What does the Catholic Church teach about abuse within marriage? Although a valid marriage is a lifetime bond between the spouses, the Church does not expect a person to stay in a situation that involves emotional or physical abuse. If you are in an abusive marriage, you should take steps to protect yourself and your children. Your local Catholic Charities agency can help you. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: The separation of spouses, while maintaining the marriage bond, can be legitimate in certain cases provided for by canon law. If civil divorce remains the only possible way of ensuring certain legal rights, the care of the children, or the protection of inheritance, it can be tolerated and does not constitute a moral offense. (CCC 2383) According to the Church’s Code of Canon Law: If either of the spouses causes grave mental or physical danger to the other spouse or to the offspring or otherwise renders common life too difficult, that spouse gives the other a legitimate cause for leaving ... In all cases, when the cause for the separation ceases, conjugal life must be restored ... (cf# 1153, 1-2).

Lighting the way of the cross

’ll never forget the time back in high school when my dad put the kibosh on my muchanticipated Friday night plans. There was nothing particularly unacceptable about the planned activities … except that they were frivolous – and it was Lent.

T. Gennara

I wasn’t too happy about season, just as my dad did so his decision then, but, looking many years ago. back, I get it. He wasn’t being While a parish commu“old fashioned.” He was just nity is typically encouraged doing what every to come to the Christian parent is church every Fricalled to do, and, day during Lent to as it turned out, pray the Stations he was participatof the Cross, the ing in my faith stations can be formation. Lent is prayed anywhere. a time reserved for For those who culture somber meditation, find it difficult Michelle fasting and prayto be away from DiFranco is a designer and the ing. It is not meant home on Friday, busy mom of to be “unhappy.” or for those who two children. But if we are not may want to careful, the distracmeditate on the tions – and attractions – of our stations on other days of the comfortable modern lives can week, there is a creative way to conflict with how we are called meditate upon them at home, to spiritually prepare for Christ’s lighting a candle at each stadeath and resurrection. tion to mark your progress. I Although I didn’t think so hope this helps you in your at the time, I still needed my Lenten journey this year! dad to lead and guide me through the proper steps that come with being a Catholic during Lent. Even as an adult living outside of my dad’s house, I still depend on certain aids to guide me through the spiritual path Lent offers. And, thankfully, the Church offers a multitude of traditions that fit that purpose. Along with the acts of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, the Stations of the Cross serve as a stepby-step roadmap through a pilgrimage of prayer. They provide a measured cadence as we make our journey with Christ to the cross, reminding us of the nature of the Lenten 8

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

Stations of the Cross tea light stand For this project you will need: • Piece of wood measuring at least 6” x 12” (can be found pre-cut at an arts and crafts store) • Acrylic craft paint • Patterned scrapbook paper • Scissors or craft knife • Sand paper • Craft or decoupage glue • Spray varnish (optional) • 14 printed Stations of the Cross • 14 tea lights Trim each printed station to size (small enough so seven will fit on each end of wood). Set aside. Paint and decorate (with patterned paper) surface and sides of the wood. Adhere Stations of the Cross to the outermost edge of the wood, so that they are in order counterclockwise. Allow it to dry, and then lightly sand edges to give the piece a slightly distressed look. Apply a coat of decoupage glue or spray varnish, and allow piece to dry completely. Place each tea light behind each station (in center of wood board). Light each candle as you pray the corresponding station. Blow out the candle before you move on to the next station if you wish. This Stations of the Cross tea light stand makes a great table centerpiece! Another idea: You can use other items such as wooden cigar boxes or trays for this project! Just make sure they are large enough to fit all the tea lights.

Photography by Shane Folkertsma

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Q: What do you call a fake noodle? A: An impasta.

in the know with Father Joe If you’d like to submit a question for Father Joe Krupp to consider in a future column, please send it to: joeinblack@ priest.com. Father Joe is unable to personally answer questions.

long-term future, as we have a goodly amount of young men studying for the priesthood, but the current situation is difficult. Also, some parishes become financially unable to continue, resulting in closure. A reality of this situation is that we are going to have to close parishes. So, what do we do when our beloved parish merges with another and the inevitable time of change comes? I’d invite you at this time to think of two important questions and see if walking through the answers to these

My parish closed and I hate the changes

Dear Father Joe: My parish has merged with another one and everything is changing. I feel left out and I am considering leaving the Church altogether. Why should I stay?

God bless you – what a difficult time. As a priest, I’ve been a part of a merger and am currently assigned to two parishes, so I have some understanding of the pain you are going through. A reality of our life right now as American Catholics is that we are low on priests. In some places, the news is better for our

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

doesn’t bring you some comfort. The first question is this – what have you lost? You’ve lost your beloved parish. It’s right that this feels like a tragedy to you – it is a tragedy. It is sad that parishes have to close, merge or cluster. You should mourn – you’ve lost something beautiful. It may seem strange, but the fact is a parish closing or merging is like a death of a friend or parent. The absence is so vast at times as to constitute a presence. We feel the loss of our parish in our bones and that is a testament to how important and life-giving the parish was and is. To not mourn would be a disservice. So, how do we deal with losses such as these? Through prayer – of gratitude and petition. Thank God for the life-giving, life-changing things that happened in your parish. Thank God for the faithful priests and community members who called you to holiness. Most of all, thank God for the sacraments that were shared in your parish. And express gratitude to God for the gift he gave you in your parish. The more we mourn, the more we cry out in gratitude for what we had. Offer God prayers of petition: “Lord, help me to deal with this. Give me patience. Help me to heal up from my wounds. Illustration by Bob Patten

Carry me today. Soothe my anger, calm my fears. Help me to trust you. Help me to believe that you are in charge and will always take me to a good place. Guide me to believe that you are present.” When we pray, we aren’t seeking to change God’s mind, we’re inviting him into the various situations and circumstances that come up, and we’re asking him to change us. Now, I’ll invite you to look at the second question –what haven’t you lost? You haven’t lost Jesus. You haven’t lost your Catholic faith. Think of it this way – your parish is closed and the pain from that is very real, but I invite you in this moment to remember that what made your parish so life-giving has a name, and that name is Jesus. In the Book of Romans, it says “All good gifts come from God.” Your parish was a good gift from God and he never abandons us. As you sit and work through all this in a spirit of thanksgiving and petition to God, don’t forget that behind it all is Jesus who loves you and will never abandon you. It appears as if, now, your mission is not only to love your former parish, but help God build a new one. You can, by God’s grace, take all the faith, emotion and memory of your former parish and use it as a fuel to cooperate with God and be a part of creating something that the next generation will experience as life-giving, life-changing and holy. One of the blessings and challenges of our Catholic faith is that we are one body by God’s grace. We are all connected, and this is apparently a time in your life when God needs you to help build a place of blessings and memories for others. Thus far in your life, it seems that God’s call to and for you was

and is to receive – to enjoy the gift of God’s grace, love and mercy by receiving him in your former parish community. Now, it appears is if this is your time to take what you have received and give. It is your time to give and help God build this new reality, which will be a place for others to receive. Jump into this with both feet and don’t look back. Don’t give in to a defeatist spirit or let that which was beautiful about the old parish die. Show, through your love and support of this new reality, that the best things about your former parish are not temporal, but eternal. They are not affected by location, name or physical boundaries – they are limitless and wrought through God working in each person. Join a council or a parish ministry. Bring with you to those places the love and light that sustained you. Watch as people draw strength from your example and something extraordinary is born. Jesus was laid in the tomb – all the sin and guilt of the human race put him there. But it was not enough to keep him there. He rose. Love won. The light shined on in darkness. That same reality is present to you now. Sit in the tomb and weep: acknowledge your loss. Then, let God lead you out into the light and the promise of resurrection. I’ll be praying for you. Enjoy another day in God’s presence!

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After they had broken through, they let down the mat on which the paralytic was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Child, your sins are forgiven.’

Read more spiritual fitness at:

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

A different approach to

LENT

Follow Sister Ann Shields on Twitter @srannshieldssgl

T. Gennara

cannot get sinners where Jesus is by ordinary methods we must use extraordinary ones. It seems, according to Luke 5:19, that a tiling spiritual fitness had to be removed, which would make dust n this season of Lent, I would like to ask you to Sister Ann Shields is a renowned author and a and cause a measure consider a different approach to repentance, member of the Servants of of danger to those God’s Love. Questions can fasting and almsgiving. Notice, I said a differbe addressed to Sister Ann below, but where the Shields, Renewal Ministries, ent approach to the three pillars of the Lenten case is very urgent we 230 Collingwood, Suite 240, season. During this time devoted to understanding and Ann Arbor, MI 48103. You can must not mind running order her new book, More of the some risks and shockanswering the call to the New Evangelization, I have Holy Spirit, for $12 at www.renewalministries.net. ing some proprieties. become aware of how many people have almost no Jesus was there to heal, idea of their dignity, their worth, their call as Christians. and therefore fall what Many of us have imbibed the world’s view to “Eat, might, faith ventured all so that her poor paralyzed charge drink and be merry for tomorrow we shall die.” In other might have his sins forgiven. O that we had more daring words, think only of what you want and get all the enfaith among us! Cannot we, dear reader, seek it this morning for ourjoyment out of life that you possibly can because death selves and for our fellow-workers, and will we not try tois inevitable and there’s nothing after death … day to perform some gallant act for the love of souls and the glory of the Lord. The world is constantly inventing; ge What a contrast to this incident in the Gospel: nius serves all the purposes of human desire: cannot faith invent too, and reach by some new means the outcasts “Many gathered together so that there was no longer room who lie perishing around us? It was the presence of Jesus for them, not even around the door, and (Jesus) preached which excited victorious courage in the four bearers of the the word to them. They came bringing palsied man: is not the Lord among us to him a paralytic carried by four men. now? Have we seen his face for ourA traditional penitential Catholic Unable to get near Jesus because of the selves this morning? Have we felt his prayer is the Act of Contrition. For crowd, they opened up the roof above healing power in our own souls? If so, Lent, consider including this prayer him. After they had broken through, they then through door, through window, or in your daily devotional practices. let down the mat on which the paralytic through roof, let us, breaking through was lying. When Jesus saw their faith, he all impediments, labour to bring poor O my God, I am heartily sorry for said to the paralytic, ‘Child, your sins are souls to Jesus. All means are good having offended you, and I detest forgiven.’” (Mark 2:2-5; see also Luke 5:17-26) and decorous when faith and love are all my sins, because of Your just truly set on winning souls. If hunger for punishments, but most of all because Those men in the Gospel did not let diffibread can break through stone walls, they offend You, my God, who are culty stop them from bringing their friend to surely hunger for souls is not to be all-good and deserving of all my love. Jesus. It took faith that Jesus could help their hindered in its efforts. O Lord, make us I firmly resolve, with the help of friend. It took faith to “brave” the crowd; it quick to suggest methods of reaching Your grace, to sin no more and to took hard and potentially dangerous effort to Thy poor sin-sick ones, and bold to avoid the near occasion of sin. get their friend to the feet of Jesus. Fueled by carry them out at all hazards. (Spurgeon’s Morning by Morning, Sept. 7) faith in Jesus, however, they persevered, and when Jesus saw their faith, he forgave the man his sins. Astounding! Those Jesus wants us, brothers and sisters, to live with him forever! men were true believers and did Heaven is real, eternal life is real, for those who put their faith and (LEFT) Christ healing the paralytic at what real friends do – brought hope in him. Capernaum their sick friend to the one who By Bernhard Rode 1780 could heal. After Christ had What can you do forgiven his sins, then he healed to have a more fruitful Lent? the poor man’s body. We need to do the same for those we love. Listen to the words of Charles Spurgeon, a Protestant pastor, • Ask God to set your priorities straight and first by commenting on this passage: prayer, then by generous service, to bring back the stray and the lost. Faith is full of inventions. The house was full, a crowd • Ask God to give you a hunger for souls. blocked up the door, but faith found a way of getting at • Ask God to share his heart for the lost with you. the Lord and placing the palsied man before him. If we 13

S. Olson

theology 101 Doug Culp is the CAO and secretary for pastoral life for the Diocese of Lexington, Ky. He holds an MA in theology from Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.

The rhythm of the spiritual life is as follows: we first receive, and then we respond. Not surprisingly, the “10 words,” or the Decalogue, follow this same pattern. The gift of the Ten Commandments “is the gift of God himself and his holy will.” Specifically, the “10 words” are the words of God that “point out the conditions of a life freed from the slavery of sin.” They show us a path of life that sums up and proclaims God’s law and will “make explicit the response of love that man is called to give to his God.” The second gift: You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain. The “second word” refers to the gift of God’s name and reveals to us that this name is holy. This revelation is an act of intimacy and trust on God’s part as he “confides his name to those who believe in him” in all its mystery. In addition, the “second word” reveals to us that not only is God’s name sacred, but that each of our own names also is sacred.

The proper response Moses with the Ten Commandments by Rembrandt (1659).

The Second Commandment You shall not take the name of the Lord in vain

“I 14

have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. Choose life, then, that you and your descendants may live, by loving the Lord, your God, obeying his voice, and holding fast to him.” (Dt 30:19-20)

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First and foremost, the name is “the icon of the person” that demands respect “as a sign of the dignity of the one who bears it.” Consequently, the proper response to the gift of receiving God’s name is the response of respect for it. Because the Lord’s name is holy, we “must not abuse it. [We] must keep it in mind in silent, loving adoration. [We] will not introduce it into [our] own speech except to bless, praise and glorify it.”

The way of life The Second Commandment teaches us that the way of life demands that we boldly confess our faith, preaching and

catechizing in a manner that clearly reflects “adoration and respect for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” What’s more, we are taught that when we make promises in God’s name to others, we actually “engage the divine honor, fidelity, truthfulness and authority” of God. This means that such promises must be respected because our failure to keep them impugns God, making God out to be a liar of sorts. The commandment makes the rejection of all false oaths a duty toward God. This is because God is the norm of all truth. Consequently, all human speech “is either in accord with or in opposition to God who is Truth itself.” For this reason, the way of life presented to us by Christ admonishes us with the following: “Again you have heard that it was said to your ancestors, ‘Do not take a false oath, but make good to the Lord all that you vow.’ But I say to you, do not swear at all; not by heaven, for it is God’s throne … Let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’ Anything more is from the evil one.”

The Ten Commandments Bible geography facts The Red Sea – The Red Sea is an inlet of the Indian Ocean between Africa and Asia that has played an important navigational role since ancient times. The world’s most northern tropical sea, it has a surface area of approximately 174,000 square miles and is more than 190 miles wide at its widest point. It has a maximum depth of 8,200 feet, but its average depth is 1,640 feet. However, there are also extensive shallow shelves that showcase many of the more than 1,000 species of fish and 200 corals found in the sea, some of which are between 5,000 and 7,000 years old. The Red Sea is famously associRed Sea: Red Sea stony beach in ated with the Book of Exodus’ account Taba, Egypt of Moses leading the Israelites out of slavery miraculously through the sea in order to escape the pursuing Egyptians. In particular, this association comes from the Septuagint (Greek) translation of the Book of Exodus. There the Hebrew “Yam suph” (meaning Reed Sea) is translated to the Greek “Erythra Thalassa” (meaning Red Sea). Interestingly enough, Yam Suph is the name for the Red Sea in modern Hebrew.

(Mt 5:33-34, 37)

This is not to say that we cannot make an oath “for grave and right reasons (for example, in court).” It does mean, however, that such oaths must be made in truth and justice and never for trivial matters or for bolstering an authority that is unjustly requiring the oath.

Did you know? The Red Sea is one of the most saline water bodies in the world, due to several factors: 1) high rate of evaporation and very little precipitation; 2) a lack of significant rivers or streams draining into the sea; and 3) limited connection with the Indian Ocean (and its lower water salinity).

The way of death

and sacred things. In addition, this grave sin includes using God’s name to “cover up criminal practices, to reduce peoples In contrast, the way of death is further revealed by this commandment. The “sec- to servitude, to torture persons or put them to death,” as each of these ond word” shows us that the way of types of acts can cause others death includes an improper to repudiate religion. response to the great gift While blasphemy is of God’s revelation of clearly the most serihis most holy name. Because the ous offense against Most seriously, this Lord’s name is holy, we the Second Comimproper response “must not abuse it. [We] mandment, there is constituted by an must keep it in mind in silent, are other dangers. act of blasphemy. loving adoration. [We] will not For example, Blasphemy concerns introduce it into [our] own oaths that misuse an act of “uttering speech except to bless, God’ s name without against God – inpraise and glorify it.” intending blasphemy wardly or outwardly and the magical use of – words of hatred, the Lord’s name can both reproach or defiance; in lead us to perdition and so speaking ill of God; in failshould be avoided. ing in respect toward him in one’s speech; in misusing God’s name.” – Quotes are from the Catechism (2059, 2083, and 2142 The offense of blasphemy also extends 2159) unless otherwise noted. to uttering against the Church, the saints Share your FAITH with your friends and followers on

The Ten Commandments quiz The story of the Israelites’ journey from slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land has a large cast of characters. Test your knowledge of biblical figures and name this person: Q: He was Moses’ first-born son whose name reflected the “strange” feeling of his immigrant father. A: Gershom (literally, “I am a stranger in a foreign land”). Pictured above with his mother, Zipporah, and his brother, Eliezer. The image is from the Sistine Chapel.

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The life of the domestic church Families also are domestic churches because they are the place where children are taught and formed, and, if truth be told, ne of the phrases that was used by the where parents also are taught and formed to be parents. Parents are their children’s first teachers in the faith. They take on this Second Vatican Council to describe the role because they know their children must respond to God’s family is the term “domestic church.” call. It is a matter of their eternal salvation. Thus, the family is Each family is the “Church” at home. a place where we pray together and where we learn about the faith together (usually with the help of the Catholic school or our catechetical program). But mostly, we are formed by sharing I would like us to look at this term and our families in three in the life of our parish: We go to Mass together on Sundays. auspices: our families are communal, formational and priestly. We go to confession together. We volunteer for some Christian Thus, each family is what the Church as a whole is. Now before service project together. The parents, especially, model what will describing each of these three, it is important to remember that no family is perfect. Some people may feel their families are too broken be God’s call for most of their children – a married life of fidelity, commitment and self-sacrifice. to be used by God. However, the truth is that Jesus Finally, each Christian, by baptism, is a priest wants to use our families, no matter what they are of Jesus Christ – we are a priestly people, like, to show his love and his grace. and thus each family is a priestly family. Our Now, to reflect upon our families, our domesdomestic church, our family, is a place where tic churches, we begin by seeing them as compriestly activity takes place. We are all conmunities. Each family is ultimately a creation scious of offering our lives, our world, our days of God – God calls us together. God makes us a community. This divinely created community from the bishop to the Lord – as a spiritual offering. We are conscious that we live “for the Lord” and not has roles in it for us to live out. Parents exerBishop Earl Boyea is the for ourselves. As a family, one way we do this is cise the very authority of God, so they have to fifth bishop of the Catholic by offering up Sunday as the Lord’s Day and esmake sure they do so with the sacrificial love Diocese of Lansing pecially as a family day. To be a priest is to offer of Jesus, modeling a virtuous life, apologizing sacrifice. Each member of the family is invited when they do wrong, and going to confession into a sacrificial life, a life for others – not a selfish life. as an example for their children. Children learn to respect not My sisters and brothers, as I mentioned at the beginning, no only their parents, but their siblings. They seek the true good of family is perfect, but this is the life to which the entire Church the other, forgive the other, celebrate the joys of the other and is called and to which each Christian is called. We can never share in each other’s sorrows, as well. In this way, every child respond to this calling alone. We need others to help us. The and adult contributes to the harmony and holiness of the entire family. However, the most important lesson that all the members family is the best place to start to be a church. Let us all pray of the family learn is that they are called, as a family, by God and that Jesus will do this in our families as we allow him to make that God has a plan for each member of the family. Our lives are our families – our domestic churches – communities of faith and love. always to be lived as a response to God’s call to us.

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Feeling the power of faith sharing

d Welch’s life has been changed by the JustFaith faith-sharing group at St. Thomas Aquinas/St. John Student Center in East Lansing, which explores the Church’s stance on issues of social justice. With Pope Francis as the new leader of the Church, there has been renewed interest in these issues. “It helps me formulate my view of social and political issues. By discussing these issues in a faith-based group, it has increased my faith, and it has strengthened my relation-

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ship with Jesus Christ. By studying what the Church has to say on these issues, JustFaith has strengthened my appreciation for all the things the Catholic Church has done. “I think in the last eight months Pope Francis has brought many of these issues to the forefront. People are often surprised at how much the Church has to say on social justice issues. “The important part of the group is how our faith is at the bottom of it.” Read more at www.FAITHpub.com.

By Mary Kay McPartlin | Photography by Tom Gennara

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

“I’d been living a very ‘normal’ life,” Bill says. “But sometimes you get to the point where you ask, ‘What’s next?’ Or maybe, ‘What’s missing?’ It’s something in your gut that tells you there is something more. That’s where I was before I went on Cursillo.”

What is Cursillo? Today’s Cursillo weekends are based on the original Cursillo, an international movement founded in the late 1940s by

Bishop Juan Hervas, bishop of the Diocese of Majorca, Spain. He felt that the Church needed to reconnect with the people. There are separate Cursillo weekends for men and women. Typically,

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

around 25 people The word “Cursillo” Each day of the attend each weekend. means “little course.” Cursillo weekend Four Cursillo weekThese small courses begins with morning ends are held in the are given over the prayers and ends with diocese each year: period of one weeknight prayers. Mass is two for men and two end, Thursday night celebrated each day for women. through Sunday night. except Thursday. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/DOLcursillo

Bill talks more about his Cursillo experience on YouTube. Follow FAITHpub

Bill Soisson is not naturally a social man. But recently, he decided to start greeting people as they entered the sanctuary of his parish, St. Andrew the Apostle in Saline, as a way of making them feel welcome. “I got some strange looks the first couple of weeks, and it was a little uncomfortable for me, but I stuck with it,” Bill says. “Pretty soon, I noticed that people who had been strangers were now smiling and saying ‘hello.’ Gradually, people I had never known were becoming friends.” Friendship is a powerful thing. That is the integral message of the Cursillo movement, something Bill learned while making a Cursillo weekend in October 2012. Since then, this “cradle Catholic” describes his life as “transformed.” “A lot of times you are given the pieces of the puzzle, but you don’t see it put together. Cursillo put the puzzle together for me. It helped me zoom in and focus – like a camera lens – on what it means to be a friend in Christ,” Bill says. Bill didn’t know what was missing in his life, but he knew of others who had been on Cursillo weekends. “People who had gone seemed to have such enthusiasm for their faith and their relationships with Christ. That was something I wanted, too,” he explains. “I had recently left the work force because of health reasons and was going to Mass more frequently. So when I was asked to go on a Cursillo weekend, I said ‘yes.’” Bill didn’t know what to expect, but he was open to finding out. Cursillo is a movement within the Church that began in Spain in the early 1940s, born of the spirit of renewal that preceded the Second Vatican Council. The word means “short course.” It is defined as an experience in Christianity that takes place over a three-day weekend retreat, and continues with ongoing participation in reunions and other gatherings of Cursillistas – those who have completed a Cursillo weekend. In North America, the first Cursillo weekends were held in the early 1960s. The movement has grown into a worldwide apostolate that has been recognized by several pontiffs and is encouraged by the American bishops. It’s estimated that some 45 million men and women around the world have taken part in Cursillo weekends. Yet most Catholics don’t know what Cursillo is or how it can impact their faith. “I was just a regular Catholic,” Bill says. “I grew up going to Catholic schools. I went to Mass and we brought up our kids in the Church, but I didn’t have that fire of faith. Cursillo has fanned the ember of faith that I had and really made it a burning flame.” Bill was born and raised in Connellsville, Pa., with a three-year detour to Malawi, Africa, from ages 9 to 12, where his parents served as missionaries. “My parents volunteered to do mission work in 1968, thinking they would probably be sent to the American West to work with Native Americans. I learned from an early age that service work By Marybeth Hicks | Photography by Jim Luning

is something people do.” After graduating from Gannon University with a degree in engineering, Bill married his wife, Dianna, and they settled in Michigan, where he worked for Ford Motor Co. and later for Visteon, an automotive parts company. Together they raised three children – Stephanie, 24, and Julie, 19, both education majors at Eastern Michigan University, and Billy, 21, an Army Reservist and student at Washtenaw Community College. Dianna is nanny to three children and an accomplished artist who recently completed a Cursillo weekend as well. “It was special in that after her first day she called me in tears telling me how much better she understood the changes in me. It has brought us closer together,” Bill says. “I’d been living a very ‘normal’ life,” Bill says. “But sometimes you get to the point where you ask, ‘What’s next?’ Or maybe, ‘What’s missing?’ It’s something in your gut that tells you there is something more. That’s where I was before I went on Cursillo. It really helped me to focus on what is important in life.” Bill says Dianna and their children have noticed the change in him since his weekend: “Cursillo is more than just a retreat. Typically, a retreat will make you feel good for a few days, but that glow eventually wears off. That good feeling goes away. Cursillo, because it can become a way of life, works to keep that fire of faith ignited and burning brightly for all to see. It has really changed my life.” Cursillo weekends follow a formula so that the retreat is the same for all who participate. Like Kairos retreats for high school students, they include several talks on specific topics and unfold characteristically over the course of three days. They conclude with an emphasis on the “Fourth Day” – taking the message of the Cursillo into the wider world and sharing it with others. “Living the Fourth Day includes getting together frequently with others to talk about the three pillars – piety, study and action. These form the tripod, the three-legged stool that keeps us focused. We get together once a week to encourage one another,” Bill says. “There’s no right way to live the Fourth. It’s unique for each person. But it’s a shared journey of faith.” Group meetings include prayer, discussion and fellowship. For Bill, the effect of Cursillo has been a newfound fearlessness, evident in his friendship ministry at St. Andrews, but also in his personal life. Last year, his doctors notified Bill that he had been injected from the contaminated batch of medication that put him at risk for meningitis. The drug had caused the deaths of several patients across Michigan. “Dianna was extremely worried while we waited through six months and several MRIs to see what would happen, but I was calm. My Cursillo helped me to accept that everything was going to be OK. It changed the way I approach fear and anxiety. I have a new strength through prayer that I didn’t have before. “Through my Cursillo, I learned I can be really brave, especially when I’m serving Christ and not myself. “I have a friend who lost a child to cancer and now his marriage is ending. It feels to him like God is just throwing rocks at him. All I can do is spend time with him and be a friend. I’m powerless to solve anything in his life, and it’s not my role to preach the Gospel to him. It’s my role to live the Gospel and be a reflection of it, and let God use that as he will. Recently, my friend came to Mass with me. I was so happy for him I teared up …all by just being a friend in Jesus. “My hope is that my example will show others – especially my children – how to pursue their own formation, but, most importantly, realize our formation is never finished and that we need to make an active choice to be formed in the Lord.” For another story about Cursillo, visit tinyurl.com/FM1211coverstory

“Along with the personal growth and connections retreats provide, I learn so much!”: Teresa Hurd is pictured at her home parish, St. Mary in Charlotte.

Teresa’s most important gift to herself for 30 years A women’s retreat

n 2013, Teresa Hurd lost her job, her oldest son died unexpectedly and her husband lost his ability to work. Her unswerving belief and the spiritual strength she has developed over 30 years of attending retreats have helped her through.

“At retreats, Father Larry Delaney likes to say, ‘If you want to make the Lord laugh, just tell him your plans.’ That’s a good way to describe last year for me. Whenever I’ve said: ‘Now listen, God. I’ve had enough,’ I could almost hear him laugh and say, ‘I’ll tell you when you’re done.’ “God guides us in increments, you know? Thirty years ago, my vocation was wife and mother of six small children. I was ‘Penny Pew,’ going to Mass, but not really experiencing my faith, when I first heard about the Women’s Retreat at St. Francis Retreat Center. I was nervous about being away from the house all weekend, but my husband encouraged me to go, and I needed a break. I signed up with my sister, Chris, and away we went! 24

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

“When we arrived, I got a room to myself – small but comfortable – and home-cooked meals made by someone else. I felt like I was on vacation, except that ours was a silent retreat. Well, I’m a talker, so very soon my sister and I headed out to explore the grounds where we could visit all we wanted. The grounds are so awesome – acres and acres of paths through the woods and fields! I think we explored them all that first year. “I decided to set aside a little money each month as a gift to myself so I could attend the annual retreat. After my third or fourth year, the spiritual benefits of that investment really kicked in. I developed deep connections with the women who attended with me. Young, old or in between, each had a special gift to share and each has become an important part of my faith journey. “Years later, when Father Larry Delaney came to St. Francis, he lifted the ban on talking. Of course, I thought this made the retreats even better! He has a wonderful way of using humor and wisdom to help us look at things from all aspects. Father Larry encouraged us to explore Church teachings faithfully, but he also got us thinking. I outgrew my ‘Penny Pew’ phase and began forming bonds that have lasted to this day. “About that time I began volunteering as a catechist and later By Nancy Schertzing | Photography by Tom Gennara

Late that evening, our son’s doctor pulled our family aside and gently guided us to the realization that Chuck was not coming back. We made organ St. Francis Retreat donation arrangements and Center, located at 703 E. contacted family and friends Main St. in DeWitt, fosters to say goodbye. Through this adult learning and spiritual horrible time, his friends and development toward living others kept telling me stories holy, wholesome lives in about the wonderful things contemporary society. It our son had done for them. shares beautiful grounds with the youth retreat center, We took great comfort in hearBethany House. Both provide space for reflection, healing ing their stories and in knowand spiritual development through retreats, spiritual direcing that, even in death, Chuck tion and education programs. Owned and operated by the was continuing to help people Roman Catholic Diocese of Lansing, both retreat centers through the Gift of Life. welcome people of all faiths and backgrounds. Learn more “I gave the eulogy at Chuck’s at www.stfrancis.ws, or call 866.669.8321. funeral. Others said to me, ‘This is your son, how can As Teresa’s story illustrates, retreats can help us along our you?’ I replied, ‘He is my son. spiritual journey. In keeping with that theme, the 2014 Men’s How can I not?’ I just had to and Women’s Parish Retreats are titled “God’s GPS: The share the wonderful things I Power of Mass in Our Daily Lives.” By examining worship was learning about Chuck. I and its role in our lives, these retreats are designed to help stood before the entire church attendees live Mass every day. Visit the retreats page, www. and did not break down stfrancis.ws/retreats.html, for a schedule and more detailed because I know my son is in information. You can attend any retreat you choose, so pick a Christ’s kingdom. He went to date that works for you and give yourself the gift that Teresa sleep and woke up in the arms has cherished for 30 years. of Jesus. “When people ask me how was hired as a part-time religious education secretary. When my I am holding up, I reply, ‘I am not holding up at all. Christ is husband’s work dropped our health insurance, I was forced to holding me up, and he won’t put me down until I am with him, leave the Church position to work full time at the Eaton Rapids Chuck and others in paradise! school system. God enabled me to provide insurance for my “When the women’s retreat rolled around a couple weeks after family, but I missed working for the Church. Soon, God called Chuck’s death, my sister, Chris, called. ‘Are you going this year,’ me to serve as youth minister in another parish. she asked, ‘or is it too soon?’ I said of course I would go. I need “My interest and curiosity in our faith grew with every ed my annual retreat this year more than ever before, but … retreat. Eventually I became commissioned as a lay I probably wouldn’t talk about Chuck’s passing. Well, ecclesial minister through Siena Heights Univerin his welcoming remarks, Father Larry told our sity. The lessons and wonders of our faith susgroup we had a retreatant who had recently tain my work in the Church – now as youth lost her son. He knew I needed the support Father Larry minister at St. Patrick Parish in Brighton. of my ‘retreat family’ – whether I realized it likes to say that “Along with the personal growth and or not! That started an outpouring of love when life gets tough, connections retreats provide, I learn so from everybody that flowed all weekend! you have to ask yourself, much! I particularly remember one preIt was even more special because I was ‘Are you gonna get bitter or senter who had lost her husband and two able to help and support others who came are you gonna get better?’ adult children. She shared her experience to me with their grief just as that wonderLast year, I think God really with us and talked about moving forward ful presenter had helped me years earlier. challenged me to answer in life through challenges. Last March, her “Father Larry likes to say that when life that question. message became very important when I got gets tough, you have to ask yourself, ‘Are you the call every mother dreads. gonna get bitter or are you gonna get better?’ “My 38-year-old son, Chuck, was being rushed Last year, I think God really challenged me to anto our local hospital. He had spent the night with some swer that question. Because I give myself the gift of the friends, celebrating and playing pool. When his friends woke up Women’s Retreat every year, I am able to accept my losses as part the next morning, they found him unconscious on the floor. of my spiritual journey. More importantly, I am able to feel God’s “When I got the news, I jumped in my car. As I was on my love and grace flowing around and through me. That’s someway to the ER, I got a second call telling me he was being airthing I will enjoy until God tells me I’m done.” lifted to the regional neurological unit at Sparrow Hospital.

St. Francis Retreat Center

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yourcommunity things to do: 24 Feb., 9 a.m.-11 a.m., St. Thomas Aquinas School in East Lansing is holding a Preschool Open House. STA School offers half-day programs for 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds. Please contact the school office at 517.332.0813 for information. March 8, 2 p.m.-9 p.m., Diocese of Lansing Middle School Youth Rally at Lumen Christi High School in Jackson. All youth in grades 6, 7 and 8 are eligible to attend – but must be registered as part of a parish/school group. Rally and registration information is available at dioceseoflansing.org/youth_ministry. March 13, St. Thomas Aquinas School in East Lansing is holding its annual Kindergarten Round-up. Parent and student are invited to attend a morning, 9 a.m.-11 a.m., or afternoon, 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m., session. STA School offers both a half-day and full-day kindergarten program. Please contact the school office at 517.332.0813 to register for a session. March 14, 9:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m., come to Kindergarten Round-up at St. Paul School, 718 W. Main St. in Owosso. Children will experience a kindergarten classroom and parents will have an opportunity to tour the school and ask questions. All kindergarten-aged children will be treated to lunch. Please call the school office at 989.725.7766 to RSVP by March 10. March 22, 6:30 p.m., St. Mary Magdalen Parish in Brighton will host Livingston County Catholic Charities’ 10th annual Salute to the Stars and Celebrity Dance Competition. Tickets are $45 prior to March 7 and $50 after; a table of eight is $360. For more information, or to become a sponsor, purchase tickets or make a donation, contact Julie at 517.545.5944. March 22, 7 p.m. and March 23, 3:30 p.m., St. Thomas Aquinas School will perform “Beauty and the Beast, Jr.” at Hannah Community Center in East Lansing. For tickets, call the school at 517.332.0813 or purchase at the door. Cost: $7 adult and $5 children. March 24, 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m., St. John Church and Student Center, East Lansing will have a Labyrinth Prayer. For information, contact Denise Waytes at 517.351.7215 or dwaytes@elcatholics.org. March 29, St. Paul School, Owosso will have its annual Rock Around the Clock Dinner/

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

March café events: March 3, 5:30 p.m., St. John Church and Student Center, East Lansing has “Contemplative Prayer” welcome and orientation meeting. Refreshments served. If you are interested in learning more or attending, please contact sjsecretary@ elcatholics.org. March 8-12, 7 p.m., Most Holy Trinity in Fowler will have a Parish Mission presented by Father Dave Pivonka. For information, contact Callie Kowalski, director of Evangelization, at mhtcallie@gmail. com or 989.593.3174, ext. 3 March 9, noon-3 p.m., St. Thomas Aquinas, East Lansing will have “Becoming Dynamic Disciples,” Lenten intergenerational event. For information, contact Deacon Al Weilbaecher, 517.351.5460 or al@elcatholics.org. March 12-13, 7 p.m., St. John Catholic Church, Howell, in the main church, will have Steven Ray speaking on the topics: “From Baptist to Catholic: The Unintended Journey” and “Defending Auction. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dinner is at 6:30 p.m. and a live auction is at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person and include two beverage tickets. Come and enjoy a fun-filled adult evening with great food, great entertainment and a great auction. April 11-13, a Retrouvaille of Lansing weekend at St. Francis Retreat Center, Bethany House in DeWitt for couples experiencing difficulty. If you have questions, email 3053@retrouvaille.org. To register, visit retrouvailleoflansing.catholicweb.com. April 12, 7 p.m., Most Holy Trinity Parish in Fowler will have Leah Darrow, a fulltime apologist and speaker for Catholic Answers from 2010-2013, sharing her

the Eucharist: You Are What You Eat.” All are invited to attend. March 24, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m., St. Paul of the Cross Retreat Center, 23333 Schoolcraft, Detroit has “Crossroads: The Midlife Journey,” presented by Janene Ternes of Prayer in Motion, LLC. Cost: $50. For information, contact Janene at 734.429.7754. To register, call 313.535.9563. March 29-30 and Apr.1-2, 7 p.m., St. Mary in Williamston welcomes all to a Parish Mission presented by Father Dennis Koopman, OFM, on “Awakening Our Faith in Challenging Times.” For information, call the parish office at 517.655.2620 or Margaret at 517.655.1696. Apr. 26, St. Patrick Church in Brighton is hosting a Theology of the Body Retreat Day sponsored by Dawn Hausmann of the Diocese of Lansing’s Office of Consecrated Vocations. For information, contact Dawn Hausmann at 517.342.2506 or Margaret Grima, program coordinator, at 517.342.2555. witness of faith. A free will offering will be taken. For information, contact Callie Kowalski, director of Evangelization at mhtcallie@gmail. com or 908.593.3147, ext. 3 April 24-25, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and April 26, 9 a.m.-noon, Holy Spirit Parish will have a Rummage Sale at 9565 Musch Rd. in Hamburg on the corner of Winans Lake and Musch. Wheelchair accessible. April 26-27, Catholic Engaged Encounter of Mid-Michigan will be held in Holly. It is a Christian marriage preparation ministry based on Catholic teachings and values. For information, visit their website at lansingcee. org or contact Sue and Wayne Fransted at 810.588.4181 or info@lansingcee.org.

Lansing Catholic Singles invite all singles mid-30s to 60s to their upcoming March events: March 8, 6 p.m., potluck and euchre/ game night at Village Green Clubhouse in Lansing, located behind the Lansing Mall. Bring a dish to pass, your own beverage and a nonperishable food item for a local food pantry. Feel free to bring a favorite board game. March 14, 7:30 p.m., Ten Pound Fiddle’s St. Patrick’s Day Party and Sing-along with The Lash at The Avenue in Lansing. Cost is $10 at the door. Look for Lansing Catholic Singles signs on the tables. For further details, phone 517.321.7886 or email lansingcatholicsingles@live.com.

Lenten fish fry and meals Every Wednesday during Lent, 6 p.m., prayer and soup, and 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., a featured presenter at St. Thomas Aquinas Church in East Lansing. March 5 and Fridays, March 7, 14, 21, 28 and April 4, 11, St. Francis of Assisi, 2270 E. Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor will serve Lenten fish dinners, 5 p.m.– 7:30 p.m. in the Parish Activity Center. Menu includes homemade clam chowder, fried cod, baked tilapia, a large variety of side dishes, beverages, homemade desserts and Girl Scout cookies. Cost: adult $10, senior $9, children 6-11 $5, 5 and under free. Takeout available. March 7, 14, 21 and 28, St. John Catholic Church, Howell will have its annual Lenten fish fry. Menu includes fried or baked fish, shrimp, popcorn shrimp, homemade clam chowder and more. All dinners come with sides. Dine-in hours are 4 p.m.7:30 p.m. and takeout orders are 3:30 p.m. -7:30 p.m. Now accepting credit cards. Fridays, 4:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., St. Patrick’s Parish Hall, 5671 Whitmore Lake Rd., Ann Arbor will host its annual Lenten fish fry. Menu includes fried Alaskan Pollock, choice of potato or mac and cheese, salad bar and beverage. Desserts offered. Beer and wine available/donation. Cost: adult $9, senior $8, children 5-11 $6, 4 and under free. Fridays, March 7 through April 11, 5 p.m.-8 p.m., St. Mary, 14200 E. Old U.S. Hwy. 12, Chelsea Knights of Columbus Lenten fish fry. Fridays, March 7 through April 11, 5 p.m.-7 p.m. Cristo Rey Church, Knights of Columbus San Juan Diego Council fish fry, 201 W. Miller Rd., Lansing. Serving all you can eat. Cost: adults $10; children 6-12 $5; 5 and under eat free. Takeout available.

Retreats St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt, stfrancis.ws or 866.669.8321 • March 21-23, Reflect Retreat, a weekend for single adults, mid-30s- to 50s. • April 12, Women Friends, Sister Friends, a retreat to refresh, renew and honor the friendship between sisters and others. • April 11-13, Retrouvaille Weekend Retreat for married couples experiencing difficulty. To register or for information, call 517.290.5595. Weber Center, Adrian, weber.adriandominicans.org or 517.266.4000 • March 8, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m., “Being Mary in a Martha World: Contemplation in the Midst of Activity.” Presenter Janene Ternes of Prayer in Motion. Cost: $35, includes lunch. • March 12, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., “Today’s Mystics.” Cost: $35. • April 13-17, Holy Week Retreat, Sunday, 3 p.m. to Thursday, 1 p.m., “In the Company of One Another, We Will Enter into the Great Christ Story.” Dominican Center at Marywood, dominicancenter.com or 616.514.3325 • March 11-25, 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m., Silence: a Lenten practice. Give up noise for Lent, the distractions of outer commotion and inner static. • March 22, 9 a.m.-noon, Create, Pray, Heal/Crear, Orar, Sanar, a bilingual workshop to deepen our overall growth as spiritual beings.

Pilgrimages June 15-25, Holy Land Christian Ecumenical Foundation – Living Stones Pilgrimage – with Rev. William Turner, pastor of St. Mary Parish, Chelsea and pilgrimage spiritual director; cost is $3,960 per person. For information, visit hcef.org or email pilgrimage@hcef.org. Sept. 7-17, Pilgrimage to Poland, “In the Footsteps of Blessed John Paul II,” with Father Mark Rutherford, Parochial vicar at the Church of the Resurrection, Lansing, and John and Marjorie Jeter. Call Corporate Travel Service at 313.565.8888 ext. 121 or 150, or visit us online at pilgrimagesbycts.com for more details or reservations

Catholic Charities Livingston County Catholic Charities, 2020 E. Grand River, Ste. 104, Howell, livingstoncatholiccharities.org or 517.545.5944 March 15, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., We C.A.R.E. class at Catholic Charities. Cost is $75 and the registration form is at livingstoncatholiccharities.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/WeCarenew13-14.pdf. Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County, csswashtenaw.org. or 734.971.9781 ext. 421 March 7, 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. and March 8, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., WE C.A.R.E. marriage preparation class at St. Thomas the Apostle, 530 Elizabeth in Ann Arbor. March 21, 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. and March 22, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., WE C.A.R.E. marriage preparation class at St. Mary Church, 14200 E. Old US-12 Chelsea. For registration form and information, link is csswashtenaw.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/WECAREbrochure-2013-2014-4.pdf. Catholic Charities of Shiawassee and Genesee Counties, ccsgc.org or 810.232.9950 March 17, the St. Patrick’s Day Box Lunch Sale is back. Enjoy a delicious corned beef and Swiss sandwich on rye, pickle, coleslaw, chips and dessert for only $6. The drive-thru will be open at 901 Chippewa St., Flint, and free delivery will be provided in Genesee County for lunch orders of 10 or more. To reserve your box lunch, call 810.232.9950 ext. 325/226 or visit ccsgc.org.

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March for Life Jackson County Kathy Potts, executive director for Right to Life, Jackson, flew to the annual March for Life in Washington, D.C. with a group that included 26 students. Kathy was impressed with those who marched for the 57 million babies whose lives have been eliminated by abortion. Potts said, “There was a very young presence at the march. They were filled with the Holy Spirit. It is exciting to be pro-life. I think they get it, that a third of their generation is not here.” The group listened to a concert and attended a rally before the two-hour walk in the cold weather. Before the march, they attended the opening Mass at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. More than 20,000 pilgrims attended. The procession took more than 40 minutes as bishops, cardinals, priests and deacons from all over the country

Jackson Interfaith Shelter

March For Life 2014: Students from Jackson County hold signs during March for Life in Washington, D.C.

testified to the gospel of life. While in D.C., they also visited the Holocaust Museum. Potts shared, “The museum parallels the march. It shows the young people what happened to the Jewish people.” Potts stated, “We come away with hope to see the Holy Spirit working in all these people. We know the battle is being won.” – Jan Hoffbauer

Jackson Catholic Singles

Economics teacher Elizabeth Hoffbauer and 15 students from Northwest High School in Jackson painted and cleaned the kids’ room at the Interfaith Shelter in Jackson recently. Hoffbauer and several of the students are parishioners at St. John the Evangelist Church in Jackson. They were joined by other teachers and students to paint and clean. The students conducted multiple fundraisers and received more than $1,000 in donations, which they used to purchase paint, a couch, toys and supplies for the shelter. One of the students also received a grant from the Jackson Community Foundation Youth Advisory Committee. Hoffbauer stated, “They are hardworking kids with a lot of heart. This is the best possible education they could receive.”

Attorney Jennifer Lamp plans events at least once a month for the Jackson Catholic Singles. The group is open to singles, widows, widowers and divorced Catholics. It is not a dating group, but a way for singles to meet singles, ages 30 to 70. Usually once a month, they go out to eat. During November, they ate at Klavon’s Pizzeria in Jackson, with more than 20 people attending. During the summer, they gathered at the Ella Sharp Park in Jackson for patio parities with live music and food. Even though they did not stomp grapes, the group enjoyed watching those who did at the Harvestfest in Brooklyn, and they traveled to Lansing for the Halloween Bash. Lamp, a parishioner at Queen of the Miraculous Medal in Jackson, said she was raised Catholic, but left the Church during her teenage years. Getting involved with the RCIA program after her divorce has brought her back to her Catholic faith. Lamp says, “It is not an intimidating group, but a very casual group. It is open to everyone and is a nice group of people to hang out with.” – Jan Hoffbauer

Right to Life Washtenaw County

Faith and Reason Symposium

More than 200 people attended the Focus on Life Benefit dinner for the Right to Life in Washtenaw County. Dr. Alveda King, a niece of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was the guest speaker. During her talk she showed family photos. After Dr. Alveda King had two abortions, her Uncle Martin Luther told her “You need to stop this.” She now speaks about God’s forgiveness and healing and about the Silent No More Awareness Campaign. The Right to Life of Michigan is part of the Silent No More campaign. This initiative would require insurance companies that provide abortion insurance to charge additional premiums for this coverage. Karen Walacavage says that the Right to Life of Michigan turned in petitions with 315,000 signatures. – Jan Hoffbauer

Dr. Peter Feldmeier delivered the keynote speech at the Faith and Reason Symposium at Siena Heights in Adrian. Dr. Feldmeier, Murray/Bacik professor of Catholic Studies at the University of Toledo, spoke about “The Assurance of God: A Response to Atheism and a Reason for Faith.” He examined and responded to the arguments in recent books, which reject belief in God. Bishop Boyea had requested Catholic universities in the diocese host an event during the Year of Faith. Siena Heights University responded to the bishop’s request by planning the symposium. The daylong event ended with Bishop Boyea presiding over Mass. – Jan Hoffbauer

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

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St. Elizabeth, Tecumseh’s Knights of Columbus

Mother Teresa House, 308 N. Walnut St., Lansing, was started in 1997, the same year that Mother Teresa of Calcutta died. Karen Bussey, a Consecrated Virgin and founding director said, “We just received word that we could build the home, when Mother Teresa House Mother Teresa died. She Karen Bussey, founding director was our inspiration.” People close to death are referred by hospitals and hospice facilities. The house can accommodate three guests at a time, and people are chosen who have the greatest need. The house operates with a small paid staff and some 50 volunteers. In reverence for life and for the end of life, the men and women who serve there surround the dying person with loving, 24-hour personal care. Bussey shared that the hospice patients truly appreciate the enthusiasm of the younger volunteers. The exchange between the young and the elderly is beautiful. There is no charge for those who spend their last days at Mother Teresa House, but the house is always in need of financial support as well as volunteers. To learn more about donating or becoming a volunteer, call 517.484.5494. The wish list for the house is available online at motherteresahouse.org. – Jan Hoffbauer

Knights of Columbus Council 9937 chartered a bus to take 43 parishioners to tour the campus of Notre Dame and attend Mass at the basilica. Brother Francis, Oblate of St. Francis de Sales in Brooklyn, helped plan the trip with Brother Albin of South Bend, Ind. Tom Dahlberg, council recorder, said attending the Mass was one highlight. He was impressed with the crowd in attendance and the choir. Another highlight was the abundance of Catholics on the campus. Dahlberg said there were crucifixes in the hotels and chapels, and a memorial in memory of the unborn children who had been killed by abortion. – Jan Hoffbauer

J. Luning

Diocese of Lansing’s Mother Teresa House

C e l e b r at i n g 2 0 y e a r s

1993 – 2013

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Installation Mass of Father Shaun Lowery

Share the warmth

Bishop Earl Boyea was the presider for Mass at St. Mary of Good Counsel, Adrian, when Father Shaun Lowery, OSFS, was installed as pastor. Kurt Weber, music leader, led the musicians and choir in singing during the bilingual Mass. Bishop Boyea said during his homily that we must promote the dignity of each human person. When he introduced Father Lowery, he received a standing ovation. Justo Hernandez, a parishioner said, “Father Lowery is in touch with the congregation, young and old.” During the “Our Father,” the congregation joined hands with each other and across the aisles. For the Communion refrain, everyone sang bilingually: Amén. El Cuerpo de Christo. Amén. La Sangre del Señor. Eating your body, drinking your blood, we become what we receive. Amen. Father Lowery remarked that he is, “… privileged to be sent to be the leader of such an enthusiastic group of disciples of Christ.”

The sign above the stage at the Salvation Army in Adrian – Share the Warmth – welcomes the homeless guests who gather there each night from the first of November until the end of April. This is the fourth year that “Share the Warmth” has been offered in the Adrian community. Twenty churches from Lenawee and Jackson counties provide about 50 volunteers a week to care for the guests. Bill Linsner and Gene Hausmann coordinate for their churches, St. Mary on the Lake, Manitou Beach and St. Joseph Shrine, Brooklyn, twice during the season. Volunteers greet, prepare dinners, fix and serve breakfast, do laundry and clean the facility each day. They visit, play cards or watch television with the guests. Several of the guests shared how well they are treated. One young man said he has spent more than half of his life in shelters and the Adrian volunteers treat the guests like kings and queens. Another man said, “The program helps people. It changed my life.” If you live in Lenawee or Jackson County and would like to volunteer, contact your parish office or the Salvation Army in Adrian at 517.265.2038 or adriansa.volunteerfirst.org.

St. Rita’s Baby Love program St. Rita Parish, Clarklake has a sign on its bulletin board: “Jesus, we will answer your call to serve.” The parish answers that call in many ways – one is through its Baby Love Program. Louanne Alber, director of religious education for the parish, and her daughter Emilie Rosa started the program 10 years ago. Alber said that when Emilie was in the 11th grade she went to the youth groups in all the neighboring churches. Pastor Ken Cherry of The Heart of the Lake United Brethren Church gave Emilie $100 and told her to do something good with it. With that initial donation, the Baby Love Program was started. Last year, the parish helped 43 babies. Parishioners make quilts, crochet blankets and make teddy bears to be given away. The seventh-graders help sort and make deliveries. – Jan Hoffbauer

From Ashes to Easter: Adversity to New Hope Genesee County has been hit hard over the years by the changing economy. Job losses, the Great Recession, foreclosures and more have left many of us reeling and wondering, “Where is God in all of this?” The truth is God has never abandoned us, even during times that seem more like Ash Wednesday and less like Easter. The Catholic parishes of Genesee County invite everyone to a regional mission, “From 30

Ashes to Easter: Adversity to New Hope,” 7 p.m-8:30 p.m, March 2, 3 and 4 at St. John the Evangelist Church in Davison. Our featured speaker each evening will be ValLimar Jansen, whose unique blend of skills as storyteller, inspirational speaker and vocalist will make each evening unforgettable. ValLimar, who was recently featured at the Diocese of Lansing’s High School Jamboree as well as at the National Catholic Youth Conference, is a highly soughtafter presenter who has shared her spiritual insights and love

FAITH Magazine • March 2014 • www.FAITHpub.com

– Jan Hoffbauer

Good Shepherd Catholic Radio purchases Jackson stations Spring Arbor University is selling its station, WJKN 1510 AM in Jackson, along with an associated FM translator, W227BY 93.3 FM, to Good Shepherd Catholic Radio. This public release of information comes shortly after the purchase agreement was filed with the Federal Communications Commission. While awaiting final approval, preparations are being made for St. Joseph Convent, 704 N. East Ave., Jackson, to be transformed into the new studio and home of Good Shepherd Catholic Radio. for God with people around the world. ValLimar’s stories and songs each evening will help each of us prepare for the journey of Lent by reminding us of the Easter hope that comes from faith in Christ’s resurrection from the dead. Each evening will begin at 7 p.m. Child care will be provided for younger children and a Children’s Liturgy of the Word service will be offered for older children in attendance. St. John Church is accessible for those with mobility difficulties; sign language interpretation

will be available each evening; and there are assisted listening devices for those with hearing difficulties. Light refreshments will follow each evening, providing everyone in attendance the opportunity to forge and deepen the bonds of friendship and Christian fellowship. As you make plans to attend, make sure to invite a friend along. St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church is located at 404 N. Dayton St. in Davison. For more information, contact St. John offices at 810.653.2377.

henever I hear someone exclaim “Oh, my God,” something within me recoils. Certainly calling upon God to damn someone is more serious than frivolously exclaiming “Oh, my God,” but isn’t the name of God to be invoked for something more important than simply an exclamation?

Not giving God respect and honor is something to which we should give our attention. After all, what’s in a name? Isn’t it the living reality of a person? Think about what happens when someone uses your name or calls you by name. It causes you to be present to them and to pay attention to them. But how would you feel if they were only being frivolous and were not being serious? Wouldn’t you feel, well… used? There are other ways of violating the Second Commandment. Take, for instance, the sin of perjury, of swearing an oath and then lying under that oath.

Clearly that’s an abuse of God and an offense against his holy name. It’s also one of those instances where it’s a civil violation of the law as well as a sin. It’s a civil crime because it is a subversion of justice. It’s a sin for using God to perpetrate a lie. And the consequences of perjury? Not only is justice subverted but people’s faith and trust are attacked. And who would ever believe anything the perjurer would have to say in the future? Then there are people who make declarations about what God wills or what God is doing. They “prophesy” in the name of God without adequate

Requiescat in Pace Sister Rita Herman, CPPS

prayer and preparation, without any reasonable basis to believe that what they last word utter is truly the will and Father Charles Irvin is the purpose of founding editor God. Clearly, of FAITH Magazine and is such would be retired a violation of the name of God, a serious offense against his will and his love. All of this is rooted in one’s use of God for one’s own selfish purposes. Once again it is human pride that is made evident, pride that is a consequence of the original sin of Adam and Eve. God’s name is to be used for worship, prayer and the highest of purposes. Anything less is the equivalent of perjury, the use of God only for one’s purposes. Would God be offended? What do you think? T. Gennara

The name of God

Students for Life offer support

Resurrection liturgy for Precious Blood Sister Rita Herman, CPPS, was held at Salem Heights Chapel, 4960 Salem Ave., Dayton, Ohio, on Jan. 10 at 10:30 a.m. She died at Maria Joseph Center in Dayton on Jan. 7. Rita had been a sister of the Precious Blood for 63 years. Interment will take place in the Salem Heights Cemetery. The first of eight children born to Edwin and Theresa (Ruen) Herman, Rita Pauline was born in Lima, Ohio, on March 15, 1933. At the age of 17, she formally entered the Congregation of the Sisters of the Precious Blood on Aug. 30, 1950. She was known in religious life for a while as Sister M. Ralph. Sister Rita stated that over the years her life has been a “Cup of life poured out in love” for the Lord and her Precious Blood Community. For 56 years, Sister Rita enjoyed teaching students in grades 4 through 8 in Sedalia, Mo.; Fort Wayne, Ind.; Flint, Mich.; and Celina North College Hill, Cleveland and Dayton. Retiring in 2009, she moved to the Salem Heights motherhouse in Dayton. In 2013, Sister Rita joined her community of sisters in the Maria Joseph Center nursing home in Dayton. This unassuming, generous woman always was caring for others to the end of her life.

The Students for Life group now has an office on the fourth floor of the Michigan Student Union at the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor. Its office hours are Monday through Friday from noon to 5 p.m. Mary Nachazel, president of Students for Life, says they are there to talk to pregnant students about Arbor Vitae, which also is on campus. Nachazel says, “We are here for students who need a friend. We help them find resources to assist in their pregnancy.” The group has hosted baby showers, but a listening ear still is the best support it can give. Students for Life joined others involved in pro-life in Washington, D.C., in January for the annual March for Life. Everything is confidential. For information, email pregnantinfo@umich.edu.

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