May 2018

IN THE KNOW WITH FATHER JOE:

How can I help?

GROW+GO:

Time spent waiting is an opportunity to love and serve DISCIPLESHIP 101:

Building a bridge of trust

LOVING OUR BABY

HOPE for as long as God gave us with her

A FREE EVENT for all the faithful of the Diocese of Lansing

Bishop Boyea invites you and your family to join him at the largest gathering of Catholics in the history of the Diocese of Lansing!

S EP T E M B E R 2 2 , 201 8 • EAST LA N SIN G, M I EUCHARISTIC PROCESSION 9-11:30 a.m.

ASSEMBLY GATHERING 1-3:30 p.m.

DIOCESAN MASS 4:30 p.m.

The day begins with a Eucharistic Procession to express our love for Christ by publicly honoring him from St. Mary’s Cathedral in Lansing to the MSU campus in East Lansing.

The Assembly will be held at MSU’s Breslin Student Event Center and will include nationally renowned speakers, contemporary and traditional choirs and musicians, and displays of the Catholic faith.

Enjoy a once in a lifetime celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass offered by Bishop Boyea together with all the clergy of the diocese.

www.madeforhappiness.org

FROM THE BISHOP

“THE TRANSMISSION OF HUMAN LIFE

BISHOP EARL BOYEA

is the fifth bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing @BishopBoyea

Carlson Productions

A CELEBRATION OF MARRIED LOVE

is a most serious role in which married people

collaborate freely and responsibly with God the Creator.” That says it all. Humanae vitae, soon-to-be-Saint Pope Paul VI’s controversial encyclical, Of Human Life, began with these words when issued on July 25, 1968, in the midst of the sexual revolution.

Just as an elite athlete trains the body diligently and makes sacrifices to achieve excellence, so must a married couple be willing to live a life of discipline to achieve excellence in love.”

As we have been confronted with many attempts to redefine marriage in the past 50 years, it is good to be reminded that God gave us marriage in which a man and a woman make a “mutual gift of themselves” so that “they perfect one another” and cooperate “with God in the generation and rearing of new lives.” (#8) “Married love is also faithful and exclusive of all other, and this until death.” (#9) Then Pope Paul defines “responsible parenthood.” “With regard to physical, economic, psychological and social conditions, responsible parenthood is exercised by those who prudently decide to have more children, and by those who, for serious reasons and with due respect to moral precepts, decide not to have additional children for either a certain or an indefinite period of time.” The Holy Father made clear that this does not mean that the couple “are free to act as they choose” but “they are bound to ensure that what they do corresponds to the will of God the Creator.” (#10) Then Blessed Paul VI discusses the necessary relationship between the unitive and procreative meaning of the sexual act. (#12) This, he writes, is designed by God and is written into the nature of our bodies. The human creature “does not have unlimited dominion over his body” nor “over his specifically sexual faculties, for these are concerned by their very nature with the generation of life, of which God is the source.” (#13) The document then finds that since artificial means of birth control are “a direct interruption of the generative process,” they are to be “absolutely excluded.” (#14) Pope Paul then noted that “if there are well-grounded reasons for spacing births … the Church teaches that married people may then take advantage of the natural cycles immanent in the reproductive system ….” It is clear that couples can use what is “provided by nature” rather than obstructing “the natural development of the generative process.” (#16) Then the Holy Father entered the realm of prophecy indicating that artificial birth control would open the doors to marital infidelity, a lowering of moral standards, a lowering of respect for women, and a grasping by public authority of power to dictate family planning. (#17) We might add to this list the breakdown of the family and, especially today, the redefining of what marriage even means. Pope Paul recognized that many would not accept this teaching which would be a “sign of contradiction” just as Jesus was.

The rest of this encyclical is a series of addresses to particular groups of people on the value of this teaching and how they might support it, even in the face of the weakness that all human beings experience and the many difficulties of family life. He calls on priests to teach the truth but also to help folks never lose heart.

Pope Paul recognizes that living this truth of marriage will at times be difficult. (#21) But just as an elite athlete trains the body diligently and makes sacrifices to achieve excellence, so must a married couple be willing to live a life of discipline to achieve excellence in love.

However, difficulties do often arise and various health issues can make Natural Family Planning difficult in practice. Recognizing this, the Diocese of Lansing has individuals whose role it is to teach and accompany couples through such difficulties.

I know that these teachings are “hard sayings” for many of us, but they are also a summons to holiness, a journey we all make with both many falls and many experiences of deep grace.

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FAITH HELPS

Our faith is meant to be

DYNAMIC A

S PART OF MY HOMILY for this year's celebration of the Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday evening, I reflected on the role of Jesus, the Teacher, as his disciples often identified him.

In thinking about Jesus, the Teacher, I encouraged that evening's gathered assembly to reflect on the positive, life-changing effects that so many gifted teachers have had on our lives. I know in my own life, I can think of a long list of very gifted teachers who, along with our Lord, have helped to shape and form me and my priestly ministry.

T.Gennera

FROM THE EDITOR

FATHER DWIGHT EZOP

is the editor of FAITH Magazine and pastor of St. Mary Parish, Charlotte and St. Ann Church, Bellevue Email: editor@ FAITHpub.com.

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In turn, one of the important aspects of my life as a priest and pastor is the opportunity to serve as a teacher. Sometimes this happens in less formal ways, like those times when I visit with the students in our parish school during lunchtime or as they are gathered in the school hallway between classes. At other times, this can happen in the conversations that are shared in my office, as I meet with individuals or couples who seek me out for my input or guidance on a variety of topics.

One of my great joys is when I have the opportunity to serve as a teacher in a more formal setting. For example, during the Lenten season just concluded, I led a large-group parish Bible study on the Gospel of Mark. For six weeks, I gathered with almost 90 members of our parish community to take a systematic journey through the Gospel that we hear proclaimed during this liturgical year. This was the first opportunity that I have had at my current parish to lead such a group. From the first night we gathered, I found myself rejoicing in the teacher/student irony. Although many of the participants perceived me as the “teacher,” I came away from each gathering deeply touched by the faith that had been shared so freely and so openly. Our group was comprised of both men and women. Some were young in years while others were young at heart. Some had participated in other Bible studies, while for others this was their first such opportunity. All are people who have deep faith in God. Their faith inspired me, and I am the better for the experience.

Those six weeks reminded me that I still have much to learn and that God continues to send me a host of very gifted teachers. As a community of faith, the same can be said of our neophytes — those recently welcomed into the Church at the Easter Vigil – as well as the many other “teachers” who come our way each day. In cooperation with Jesus, the Teacher, we are presented with myriad opportunities for growth in faith.

Our faith is meant to be a dynamic reality – it is meant to grow, stretch and change through the years. That process of growth does not mean that we leave behind what we learned when we were young.

Instead, we build upon it – led to see our relationship with God in faith as something that is always changing, growing and developing. It is, as the Scriptures say, “ever ancient and ever new.” And so our journey in FAITH continues.

FAITH Magazine | MAY 2018 | WWW.FAITHPUB.COM

DISCIPLESHIP

For personal reflection or small group discussion Marriage Matters • What concerns and priorities do you have regarding your children’s education? Prayerfully discern the reasons for these priorities and concerns.

Grow+Go GROW • Do you have a short prayer or Scripture passage in mind that you could think about while you are waiting in line?

Grow+Go GO • What can you do to help someone in your life feel welcome and comfortable accompanying you to church?

How can you follow up with them to encourage them to return? Read 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-27.

Cover • Jill and Zac shared their story of what has to be the most difficult situation people face, the death of a child. How does their story change the way you think about this kind of loss? What does their story have to tell us about the importance of community?

Feature: Evangelical Catholic Program in Jackson • What gifts or talents could you bring to a small group that might help fellow parishioners grow in discipleship to Christ?

FIND MORE ONLINE GO TO FAITHPUB.COM TO FIND ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS AND RESOURCES

INSIDE MAY

COVER STORY LOVING OUR BABY, HOPE – JILL AND ZAC’S COURAGEOUS DECISION P. 16

YOUR LIFE

YOUR STORIES

6 parenting journey The rules at my ex-husband’s house are different from mine

7 marriage matters

She says: ‘I don’t want to homeschool our kids.’ He says: ‘We need to know what they’re being taught’ What do they do?

work life Our new hire expects a promotion right away

8 goodlife I can’t afford to be a bridesmaid

YOUR FAITH

10 grow Time spent waiting is an opportunity to love and serve

11 go

Prayer is the backbone of evangelization

12 in the know with Father Joe How can I help?

14 discipleship 101

Building a bridge of trust

P. 11

20 DSA 2018

Evangelical Catholic program in Jackson leading others to Christ

22 FaithFest ‘You could feel God in the air’ – Alexa wants to share the joy of FaithFest with everyone

FOLLOW FAITH PUB SHARE YOUR FAITH WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FOLLOWERS

PLUS 24 culture A dessert fit for a May Crowning

30 popewatch 5

YOUR LIFE

The rules at my ex-husband’s house are different from mine

Q

When we were married, my ex-husband left all the

child care to me. Now that we're divorced, he has a lot of opinions that are contrary to what we do in my home. How do we negotiate the differing rules?

A

Focus on communicating in a positive way. In the time leading up to your divorce, it is likely that anger and pain strained your abilities to communicate effectively. But your paths will be intertwined throughout the future as you share the lives of your children and grandchildren. Keeping the lines of communication open will help your children during this time of transition. In order to do this, try to have conversations about the children when you are calm rather than reacting instantly when you learn of a parenting decision that is contrary to your own priorities. Write down your feelings and reactions in a journal when you discover situations that are contrary to your child-rearing values. Pray and reflect on the journal entries: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” (Prv 3:5) Choose your battles. Your husband will make the rules in his home. Many of them will differ from yours. As long as his rules fall within the spectrum of normative parenting choices, it is within his 6

FAITH Magazine | MAY 2018 | WWW.FAITHPUB.COM

parental rights to make different decisions. Talk to him about major concerns; hearing consistent messages on important issues will help the children adjust. For example, continuing participation in the Eucharist during his custodial time provides important consistency.

Children can distinguish between different contexts. As they develop, children get more and more adept at changing behaviors in different contexts. They learn “code-switching,” and realize that the linguistic codes that are frequently heard out at recess are certainly not OK at the dinner table or in the classroom. Over time, the children need to learn that “appropriate” behavior differs in each household. Be matter of fact if they push for change: “I know that is the rule at your dad’s house but the rule here is … .” If problems arise, such as a drop in grades, then consistent rules regarding homework can be discussed with your ex-husband.

During your marriage, you were used to structuring the rules and discipline for your children. As your ex-husband assumes that role in his household, it will be unsettling for you knowing that your children have experiences that are outside of your control.

Adjusting to these new situations may be easier if you talk to a psychologist. Finding a support group within your community also can be an emotional resource for healing. Reflect on verses from scripture to find comfort during this time: "Teach me knowledge and good judgment, for I trust your commands." (Ps 119:66)

PARENTING JOURNEY

T. GENNARA

The Parent Trap movies (1961, 1998) featured identical twins being raised in separate households. After their accidental meeting at a summer camp, the twins plotted to exchange places.

A key challenge was learning all the different rules that would need to be followed when switching households. Of course, the movies portrayed exaggerated situations to increase drama. But after divorce, there will be differences in parenting styles that family members find challenging.

DR. CATHLEEN MCGREAL

is a psychology professor and certified spiritual director.

After divorce, there will be differences in parenting styles that family members find challenging.”

YOUR LIFE MARRIAGE MATTERS

SHE SAYS:

I don’t want to homeschool our kids Michael wants us to homeschool our kids. Not only do I think that means raising them in a bubble, I would be primarily responsible to be the teacher.

HE SAYS:

We need to know what they’re being taught I think it’s important that we, as parents, know exactly what our children are being taught. The only way to ensure that is to do it ourselves. It makes the most sense for Sarah to do it; we can’t afford to lose my income.

AS THE GOD-ORDAINED “first educators” of their children “parents have the right to choose … those means that will help WHAT DO them best fulfil their duty.” (Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, 240).

THEY DO? Schools, both private and public, as well as homeschooling, can be one of “those means.”

Homeschooling is a big decision for a family. It affects so many aspects of both the parents’ lives and the children’s. So how should Sarah and Michael embark upon this decision-making process?

To begin, they need to put the pros and cons on the table and work through them carefully.

For example, will homeschooling be socially isolating for the children? Or will it be a gift for everyone to embark together on this shared family adventure? What local and online resources are available to support homeschooling?

One thing for both of them to remember is that it’s not an irreversible decision. They can continuously re-evaluate what’s best for them and for each child.

Is homeschooling right for Michael and Sarah? Even if they could make it work on his income alone, we see a red flag in that only he wants it. This would be a problem even

OPTION No. 1 – FIRE HIM. That would deliver a bracing dose of reality, but pretty harsh.

Our new hire has been with us for just a month and is already expecting to be promoted. How do I manage these unrealistic expectations?

OPTION No. 2 – PROMOTE HIM. But then you would be joining his fantasy world.

OPTION No. 3 – ENLIGHTEN HIM. Teach him a better way to harness his ambition.

If he wants to succeed, he should add the south pole of humility to the north pole of magnanimity.

Business guru Jim Collins notes that great leaders display both strengths. “To make something great, their ambition has to be for the greatness of the company, rather than for themselves. They are a study in duality: modest and willful, humble and fearless.” (Good to Great, 2001) Speaking of fearless, magnanimity (don’t ask me to pronounce it) is a sub-virtue of the cardinal virtue of courage or fortitude. St. Thomas Aquinas defines magnanimity as “the stretching forth of the mind to great things.”

As only he can, the Angelic Doctor marries magnanimity with humility. “Man is worthy of great things in consideration of the gifts he holds from God … but humility makes a man think little of himself in consideration of his own deficiency.”

Humility without magnanimity falls short. Magnanimity without humility falls down.

Make sense? You might suggest that your new hire study some humble/great leaders such as Joan of Arc or Nelson Mandela, not to mention Jesus Christ, the Exemplar of magnanimity and humility.

YOUR LIFE WORK LIFE

T. GENNARA

OUR NEW HIRE EXPECTS A PROMOTION RIGHT AWAY

if he was going to take it on himself, because regardless of who does the actual teaching, homeschooling has to STEVE AND be a shared project.

BRIDGET PATTON But Sarah, before hold master’s deciding absolutely degrees in against homeschooling, theology and perhaps do some counseling and research about it and serve as family meet with a homeschool life ministers for family or two to hear the Diocese of about it first-hand.

Sacramento.

Homeschooling is not for every family, and, indeed, given the required work and commitment, it’s probably not for most.

Plus, it usually means at least one parent staying home to oversee it, and for many families that is not an option.

JIM BERLUCCHI

is the executive director of the Spitzer Center for Visionary Leadership.

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YOUR LIFE GOODLIFE

bridesmaid I can’t afford to be a

“WILL YOU BE MY BRIDESMAID?!?” After the shrieks of excitement fade, a horrible feeling in the pit of your stomach grows as you realize you don’t have the finances to participate as you feel you should. Do you decline altogether?

1

As the bridesmaid, be honest in your communication. Let the bride know you would love to be part of her special day, but share your concerns about finances.

2

As the bride, be honest about your expectations and go from there. If you know you’re about to plan an expensive, involved day – don’t downplay that. And don’t express hurt or disappointment if a friend has to decline. To paraphrase an old movie quote, “It’s not personal, it’s financial.”

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3

Perhaps there are other ways of participating in the wedding that aren’t quite as financially involved. What about doing the reading, teaming up to tackle any planning aspects the bride isn’t too excited about, or making phone calls to confirm details?

4

Pray together. Ask God to find a way for both of you to appreciate and be there for each other on the big day and beyond.

REMEMBER – a wedding is the entrance to the

sacrament of marriage.

Having friends you can walk that journey with is beyond priceless – whether or not they can physically stand

next to you the day you take your vows.

BY CYNTHIA KAAN

Witness to Hope funds serve youth at St. Mary Queen of Angels Parish The Witness to Hope funds received by St. Mary Queen of Angels Parish in Swartz Creek enabled them to hold their first-ever Community Kids Day last August. More than 200 enjoyed the bounce houses, carnival games, balloon twisting, slides, concessions and face painting. Completely funded by Witness to Hope, this event was free for the community. The parish also used its funds to hire a youth event coordinator, Jessica Grima.

Since Jessica has joined the team, the parish has been able to offer more opportunities for youth to encounter Christ.

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YOUR FAITH

GROW

as a disciple of Jesus

Time spent waiting is an opportunity to love and serve [Jesus] answered them, “It is not for you to know the times or seasons that the Father has established by his own authority.

(Acts 1:7)

A

RECENT TRAFFIC JAM gave me time to think about how much time we spend waiting and planning. We wait for food, parties,

clothes from the dryer and Friday. We wait in the dentist office, the gym, the carpool line and in the checkout lane. I think we actually spend more time waiting than doing. When we aren’t waiting, we’re planning, mapping and calculating dozens of things a week, and we get frustrated and throw a little hissy-fit when our plans go sideways.

Only the Father knows that time and season, so the object of our waiting and planning is to trust, love and serve.”

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In the midst of our waiting and planning, we often forget an important fact – God is in charge and only he knows the details. In our attempt to control events, situations and outcomes, we often forget the Father doesn’t need our help – only our trust in his perfect timing. Our discipleship can be seen both in our waiting and in our doing. As we trust in the time and seasons of the Lord’s plan, we can practice patience and look for “Father-pleasing” things to do while we wait. I absolutely need to be better at waiting. I need to look for people to pray for, visit with and serve, or show kindness to.

As I stood in the checkout line recently, I got a poky cashier. I had plans and needed to get moving.

I was right on the edge of getting impatient when I noticed my beautiful daughter step around me to help the shopper behind us. She was in a wheelchair, and Shannon unloaded all of her groceries onto

FAITH Magazine | MAY 2018 | WWW.FAITHPUB.COM

the conveyor belt. They visited about everything from the lady’s granddaughters to the Flaming Hot Cheetos in her cart. I got a lesson on the value of waiting, and I realized that stepping outside of my own little plan while my daughter showed me how to serve someone else had turned waiting into a precious gift.

The world will whiz by in a blink whether we spend 10 more minutes in line or in traffic, so when we boil it down to the bottom of the pot, our tiny time on earth is all about waiting and planning for true life – in heaven.

Only the Father knows that time and season, so the object of our waiting and planning is to trust, love and serve.

Pray every day: Begin each new day with a prayer for patience. Develop the practice of stopping to pray for the grace of surrender each time you get frustrated when your plans are changed or your schedule is disrupted.

Study the faith: During this Easter season, spend time each day reading from the Acts of the Apostles and discover the beginnings of our beautiful Catholic Church and be inspired to live out your discipleship.

Engage in parish life: Turn your personal planning and waiting to good use and volunteer to be on an event planning committee or to be a greeter and hold the door as you wait for people to gather in Our Father’s house.

Serve others’ needs: The next time you are waiting in line somewhere, offer a kind smile, a helpful hand or a cheerful conversation. In an act of true service, offer another shopper an invitation to go ahead of you in line.

SHERI WOHLFERT

is a Catholic school teacher, speaker, writer and founder of Joyful Words Ministries.

Sheri blogs at www.joyfulwords.org

GO

evangelize

Prayer is the BACKBONE OF EVANGELIZATION

PAUL GODFREY is in his fifth year teaching theology at Detroit Catholic Central, and is a parishioner at Christ the King Church in Ann Arbor. He invited his neighbor to Alpha.

WITNESS: Part of what Alpha has done for me is helped me realize that I need to be bold. I need to ask the Lord, “Who do you want me to invite today?” It’s a mind-set of witnessing – we’re meant to welcome everyone into Church and into relationship with Christ. It is good but challenging. It’s the open door that is there for anyone and everyone.

INVITATION: There is a woman in her 80s in our neighborhood who I kept seeing when I was outside with my two little kids. After more than a year of small talk, she asked me what I did for work. I told her, and she started talking a little about her faith. From that point on, I could see a change in her, an opening up, so I started asking her to come to church, but she turned me down. At some point, I mentioned that I frequently go to the adoration chapel and asked if she would go with me. She said no, but from then on I’d bring my faith into the conversation.

Sometimes, I noticed discomfort and once in a while, she’d even keep walking instead of stopping to talk.

After a couple years of pursuing and inviting her, our parish started Alpha.

It seemed perfect – a meal, very light atmosphere and just talking about faith.

She listened to my invitation and said she’d think about it, but a week or two later she said she didn’t think she’d go.

There were several more asks and several times she turned me down, but one day we were chatting, and I asked her to Alpha again and she said yes. She was very quiet at the first session, but there was a sister and a priest there whom she loved. When the sister asked her if she was coming back, she said she wasn’t sure. Ultimately, she missed only one session, and I think she really enjoyed it. We continue to chat and I’ve invited her to other things at the parish. I’m not done inviting her! So much of inviting is showing that you care. I told my neighbor

that I don’t care if she ever comes to something else or not, but I love her enough to keep asking.

ACCOMPANIMENT: Often, evangelization requires the building of a relationship. My neighbor and I tease each other – I try to find ways to show her I am patient and not giving up. I told her she reminded me of my mother, whom I love, which was why I was pursuing her. You have to meet people where they’re at.

And sometimes invitations aren’t enough, you need to know them a bit and they need to trust you before they’ll take a step.

PRAYER: I prayed for my neighbor for two years before we had much interaction, so I’d even ask the Lord to provide moments of encounter.

I wanted that consistency, so I’d pray, “Lord, let me keep bumping into her.” I still pray for her, even with my kids at night I say, “Let’s pray for Miss F – that the Lord would be at work in her.” We don’t always see the effects, but prayer is the backbone. When you pray you might not feel like it’s effective but perseverance is so important – we have to keep knocking.

ALPHA is a parish tool for evangelization that helps develop three essential missionary cultures for the long term: culture of invitation and hospitality; culture of encounter; culture of missionary discipleship.

Contact your parish to learn if it is currently holding Alpha sessions.

Visit TINYURL.COM/DOLPLAN to develop your personal evangelization plan

BY MARY GATES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM GENNARA

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that they may suddenly want to talk about their deceased loved one and cry about it. Be ready for that, and make sure they know you are ready to hear about their loved one or talk about something else entirely.

I summarize this attitude in St. Paul’s words “Be all things to all people.” Be the servant of the one in grief.

HOW CAN

I HELP… T. Gennara

YOUR FAITH IN THE KNOW WITH FATHER JOE

FATHER JOE KRUPP

is a former comedy writer who is now a Catholic priest. @Joeinblack

12

Q

DEAR FR. JOE: How can I help … my friend, coworker or neighbor who is in mourning?

A

Losing someone we love is such a painful thing, and your desire to help someone in a time of loss can be absolutely life-changing for them. I’ve had a lot of experience with people who are grieving the death of a loved one, and think I can be helpful here.

First, I’m a big fan of this one: wait a bit after the funeral. Most people experience a lot of presence and support right around the time of their loss and for a couple of weeks after the funeral. To be most helpful, I find it important to start checking in a month or two after the funeral. Give them a call or a visit and let them know you are thinking about them, and that you just want to check on them and see how they are doing. Be faithful and consistent in being with them; going for a walk together, eating out, etc.

During your time together, try not to confuse emotional manipulation with support. This one can be tough to distinguish, but I think it comes down to your goal in being there. Don’t try to make the person cry or use their grief as a time to work through your own pain; just be open to the fact

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... the poor person I walk/drive by on my way to work?

I unintentionally make some people very angry with my attitude on this and, as is always the case, I want to be clear that I could be wrong, but here is how I try to help in these situations: if I can, I talk with them and give them my help.

I know, I know – everyone is worried about supporting a scam, but my attitude on that is formed a bit by St. Jane DeChantal. When one of her workers came to her to complain about poor people using trickery to get in line twice for food handouts, she pointed out to the worker that she does the same thing to God and he never refuses her. I liked that, and I apply it to my efforts to help the poor. I don’t recall any point in Scripture where Jesus tells us we will be judged on whether we were scammed by the poor or not, but I know of a few where he points out we will be judged on if we helped those in need.

Have food and/or water ready for them so they know you were thinking of them. Get a list of the local charities together to help them get long-term help. If they just want to talk for a few moments, take the time to listen to them. Help them remember their dignity by the way you love them.

I’m so glad that so many have written about numerous things they see and want to help with and these were, by far, the most common things I’ve been asked. I praise the Lord for the generous and beautiful hearts of you, my readers, and I pray God bless our efforts to be his light in the world!

Learn more at www.dolcatholicschools.com 13

YOUR FAITH DISCIPLESHIP 101

F O E G D I R B A BUILDING

I

n 2018, FAITH continues to offer the column Discipleship 101, based on Sherry Weddell’s books, Forming Intentional Disciples: The Path to Knowing and Following Jesus (2012) and Fruitful Discipleship: Living the Mission of Jesus in the Church and the World (2017). Sherry is a leading voice in the Catholic world in the field of forming missionary disciples –

engaged Catholics who strive to grow as disciples of Jesus and go evangelize, sharing the Gospel with others.

A previous Discipleship 101 column listed the five thresholds of conversion: initial trust; spiritual curiosity; spiritual openness; spiritual seeking; and intentional discipleship. In looking at the first threshold, we ask the question: What do we mean by trust in this context?

The threshold of trust is not the same as active personal faith.

Trust, in this case, refers just to a basic, felt trust of something or someone associated with Christ or the Church. What this means can vary widely.

A dear friend of mine, raised in a completely nonreligious household, somehow came to the conclusion as a child that Christmas wasn’t Christmas if he hadn’t heard Linus recite the Nativity story from the Gospel of Luke in A Charlie Brown Christmas. He trusted in the goodness of that story, though he didn’t learn anything else about Christianity for many years.

A cartoon was his initial bridge of trust.

Another close friend lives in the Persian Gulf, speaks Arabic fluently, and often goes places few Western women ever visit. She has lived for 25 years in a Muslim context in order to be a living witness to Jesus and his kingdom. She has become friends with a Sudanese Muslim who had a wonderful experience as a student at a Catholic girls’ school. Her experience in that Catholic school was her bridge of trust. It disposed her to trust a Western Christian like my friend.

The first task of evangelization is to find out if a bridge of trust already exists. Does our friend or colleague or roommate or family member trust or have some kind of positive association with Jesus Christ, the Church, a believer, or something identifiably Christian? If this trust does not already exist, then our first job as an evangelizer is to help build that bridge.

This is especially vital now that a fundamental distrust of 14

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Christianity in general and the Catholic Church in particular is the new normal in many places. After a decade of scandal, Catholics must work hard to earn trust – in some parts of the country and in some situations more than others. Where trust has been severely violated, it can be difficult to build or restore. Although effective Catholic media can help, we earn such trust primarily through relationships: through the integrity, compassion, warmth, and joy of our own life and faith. Even excellent Catholic media often do not have the impact of a radiant personal witness.

Most active Catholics are at least at the threshold of trust.

Many non-practicing Catholics and “former” Catholics do not have a bridge of trust in place, which would enable them to retrace their steps. As we work to rebuild trust or to build it for the first time, we must pray and work to avoid the natural reactions to the distrust directed at us. We need to avoid such things as defensiveness, seeing ourselves as a “victim,” and avoiding or judging those who don’t trust us Many don’t trust God or the Church, but they do trust a Christian in their life. Maybe they trust you. You may be the bridge that one day will lead them to a life-changing encounter with Christ.

(Forming Intentional Disciples: The Path to Knowing and Following Jesus, Sherry A. Weddell, Huntington, Indiana: Our Sunday Visitor, 2012, pp. 132-133, 134) SHERRY ANNE WEDDELL created the first charism discernment process specifically designed for Catholics in 1993. In 1997, she co-founded the Catherine of Siena Institute, an affiliated international ministry of the Western Dominican Province, and currently serves as Executive Director. Sherry has developed numerous unique formation resources that are used around the world.

TOM GENNARA

LANSING-BASED FAITH CATHOLIC IS NOW AMERICA’S LARGEST PUBLISHER OF CATHOLIC MAGAZINES “Jesus has called us to go and announce the Gospel of the Lord. FAITH magazine was started in our Diocese of Lansing to assist us in accomplishing this great commission. In only a few years, we were able to turn this one magazine into a publishing service to help dioceses across our country. In years to come, it is our plan to expand this print medium as well as to branch even more into other media as we serve the Church in responding to the Lord’s call.” – Bishop Earl Boyea

In 2000, Bishop Mengeling and Father Charlie Irvin started the magazine you now are reading – FAITH, the magazine for the Diocese of Lansing. FAITH was the brainchild of Patrick M. O’Brien, who developed the original concept as well as the business plan that grew FAITH into what is now America’s largest publisher of Catholic magazines.

After reviewing an annual assessment of the Catholic press in the United States, it was determined that FAITH Catholic produces more magazines and reaches more homes than any other American Catholic publisher. One of those magazines is this one – FAITH, the magazine of the Diocese of Lansing, which reaches 65,000 homes, or every Catholic home in the Diocese of Lansing. FAITH Catholic now publishes 52 magazines that reach a combined circulation of nearly two million Catholic homes. One in four Americans receiving a publication from their diocese receives a publication from Lansing-based FAITH Catholic.

FAITH Catholic grew by customizing magazines for Catholic dioceses and Catholic organizations. The company now also offers web and digital publishing, integrated marketing services, and products that parishes all over the world buy. FAITH Catholic is home to MassTimes.org and the MassTimes app. FAITH Catholic is the publishing, communications, marketing and technology arm of the Diocese of Lansing, and employs 57 people in three states.

“I thank Bishop Mengeling and Father Charlie Irvin, who made the decision to start FAITH magazine. I thank our current leaders, Bishop Earl Boyea, and our chairman, Father Dwight Ezop, who have both been so supportive and committed to our mission and growth. Mostly, I thank our dedicated and talented staff and freelancers who produce award-winning, inspiring and beautiful publications that lead so many people into a greater relationship with Jesus and his Church.”

2018

– Patrick M. O’Brien

2000

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MOLLY NOE, NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP (WWW.NOWILAYMEDOWNTOSLEEP.ORG/). USED WITH PERMISSION.

LOV I N G O U R B A B Y,

HOPE Jill and Zac’s courageous decision

They named her Hope after the diagnosis, but love sustained them in their journey of faith with her.

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T

HOPE

WENTY WEEKS into their pregnancy, Jill and Zac Moon waited excitedly to learn their baby’s sex. Comfortably established in their careers – Jill a math teacher at Flint Powers High School and Zac a scientist for a medical laboratory – they were delighted to be starting their family. With grandparents-to-be, co-workers and much of the Powers Catholic family waiting for their news, Jill and Zac peered attentively at the ultrasound images before them.

Zac remembers, “When she got to the head, the nurse had Jill move around so she could get images from other angles. After saving a bunch of pictures she told us there was fluid on the baby’s brain. Our hearts sank.

“After the ultrasound, we waited nervously to

FAITH Magazine | MAY 2018 | WWW.FAITHPUB.COM

speak with our doctor. I held Jill’s hand and said a quick prayer asking for this to be a minor thing.

You know it’s not good when the first words out of the doctor’s mouth are: ‘I’ve got bad news.’

“I tried to be optimistic, but he shook his head and wrote down holoprosencephaly. ‘You have a lot on your plate and it’s not necessary to go over it all today. But if you choose, you can look this up. The next step is to schedule an appointment with a perinatologist to go over your situation and options. They will probably get you in quick.’

“I really appreciated our doctor’s honesty, his professionalism and that he understood we probably couldn’t handle much more. Before we left his office, Jill told him he had a really tough job.

He replied, ‘I have a lot of really good days. I’m very sorry that today is not one of them.’ Jill and I could not contain our tears as we walked out.”

YOUR STORIES

And now these three remain: FA I T H , H O P E A N D LOV E , but the greatest of these is love.

1 Corinthians 13:13

J

FA I T H

ILL RECALLS, “Right from the start, I knew what I wanted to do. We learned that the baby had a genetic condition called Trisomy 13 where there is an extra chromosome. In our case, it had prevented our baby’s brain from dividing into two lobes as normal brains do. The doctors kept being very clear the diagnosis was no mistake. This wasn’t going to have a happy ending where we would have a healthy baby.

“They gave us options but never pressured us on a solution. The neonatologist and other doctors [at Hurley Medical Center] wanted us to have all the facts. They talked with us about faith, but I think they had the impression we didn’t understand the severity. They were also aware of our timeline – at 24 weeks, abortion

becomes illegal in Michigan.”

Zac continues, “Right from the start, Jill was like: ‘This is what we’re gonna do.’ But I was more: ‘What’s the right thing to do?’ I had two people to think about – my child and my wife.

There are so many ‘what-ifs,’ and it’s a slippery slope when you let your brain travel down those paths. What if technology was God’s way of offering us a way out? What if our baby had to be hooked up to machines forever? What if the baby died before it was born, and Jill had complications? I didn’t want anyone to suffer.

“Jill suggested we talk with Father Dan Kogut, who was chaplain at Powers Catholic.

He listened and then he said, ‘In my experience, we’re not always very good at judging other people’s suffering. And in all the Scriptures I’ve read, God’s plan is to continue on.’

BY NANCY ROSEBUSH SCHERTZING PHOTOGRAPHY

BY JIM LUNING

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“After we met with him, I could finally agree with Jill that we were going to ride this pregnancy out. We would love our baby, Hope, for as long as God gave us with her.

“Father Dan came to our home and gave Jill, me and Hope the sacrament of anointing of the sick. Later, we went to Mass at Holy Family [Grand Blanc], our home parish, and I felt like the service was meant for us. The Gospel reading was Luke 11:1-13, where Jesus says, ‘Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.’ Father Gary Koenigsknecht ended his sermon saying, ‘I challenge you to try to annoy God with me by asking that we trust his plans and remain confident that he will provide what we need. Maybe we can all knock together and be so annoying we break God’s door.’

“W

Hope has been the reason our faith has strengthened. We talk to her in prayer like she’s our little angel.

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LOV E

HEN SCHOOL STARTED in the fall, I was obviously pregnant,” Jill recalls. “My students and colleagues were excited, so I told them about Hope’s condition and what we could expect. They prayed with us and supported us throughout.

“A little over a month later, Hope came into the world. She was born at 32 weeks and lived for about 40 minutes. We had priests on call, who came to baptize, confirm and give her the last rites. We were also joined by Molly Noe, a photographer for Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, a nonprofit that helps families document the birth of babies who die at or shortly after birth.

Molly captured so many precious moments and memories of our time with Hope.

“The day of Hope’s funeral, Powers Catholic closed its doors so students and staff could attend. My students and their friends formed a receiving line, so we were able to talk to each one. People say ‘The Powers Family.’ Boy, I really felt it going through this!

“We wrote Hope a letter that kind of sums up the good we experienced through her. We read it at her funeral.

L

T H E G R E AT E S T OF THESE

OOKING BACK ON her journey with Hope, Jill says, “I’m very grateful for how things happened. I think we got to be good examples for my students. They got to see how

YOUR STORIES COVER STORY

Zac and Jill with their baby Haidynn, who was born in Nov. 2017.

good can come from difficult things – not bad, but difficult.

“People tell me my faith inspires them. I still have a lot of work to do, but God knows so much more than we know! When I trust that God has our best interest at heart, it makes it easier to accept.

“Hope has been the reason our faith has strengthened. We talk to her in prayer like she’s our little angel, asking her to look out for us and to watch over her little sister.”

A few months after Hope’s birth, Jill became pregnant again. “When I told my students I was pregnant again, they stood and cheered.”

“I was always praying the development would be OK,” Zac confides. “Even after the genetic testing came back normal, I was nervous. When we had her first ultrasound, I was anxious about

everything. There was a spot Jill and I could both see. A big black hole in the middle of the screen. I steeled myself, and just then the nurse said, ‘And here’s her stomach.’ I think Jill and I both exhaled for the first time!”

Jill says, “My pregnancy continued and on Nov. 19, 2017, we welcomed Haidynn into the world. Her delivery was hard, but she was a perfect 8 pounds 3 ounces. And she’s growing and developing exactly as she should.”

Zac smiles as he cradles Haidynn in his arms.

“We’ve heard people complain about parenting duties, and we think, ‘No. We get to change a diaper in the middle of the night!’ I know Hope made me a better dad and a better husband.

And if our story can help others and bring even more people closer to God, I think Hope likes that, too.”

LEARN MORE JOIN THE CATHOLIC ADVOCACY NETWORK AND RECEIVE BRIEF EMAIL UPDATES ON ISSUES SUCH AS HUMAN LIFE AND DIGNITY. THE NETWORK IS AN OUTREACH OF THE MICHIGAN CATHOLIC CONFERENCE. SIGN UP AT MICATHOLIC.ORG/ CAN/.

DEAR HOPE,

Love, Mom and Dad

MOLLY NOE, NOW I LAY ME DOWN TO SLEEP (WWW.NOWILAYMEDOWNTOSLEEP.ORG/). USED WITH PERMISSION.

Your life on earth was short but the impact you have on us will continue forever. In these past 7 months, you have truly been an inspiration to us. You have given us the ability to be more compassionate to others so that we are able to relate better to those going through difficult times and provide support. You have brought us closer to our families and friends by allowing us to show the love we have for one another. You have strengthened your mom and dad's marriage by letting us know we can be each other's rock. You have taught us to appreciate what we have and not dwell on what we don't. The short time we had with you were the best 40 minutes of our lives. We finally got to feel the love a parent has for their child the moment we laid eyes on you. Most importantly, you have been our little light guiding us to God. Hope, you have touched the lives of many people and words cannot describe how much we love you. We promise that we are going to continue working on our relationship with God so that we can always have the hope to see you again someday in heaven.

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2018

Diocesan Services Appeal

EVANGELICAL CATHOLIC PROGRAM IN JACKSON leading others to Christ

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BY ROSE ROBERTSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM GENNARA

VANGELICAL. CATHOLIC. Many Catholics are not accustomed to hearing the two classifications together.

And yet Todd Gale, director of faith formation at St. John the Evangelist in Jackson, will tell you it’s a perfect coupling. “An evangelical Catholic is a Catholic who is trying to lead others to Christ,” he says.

meetings, homework and unlimited access to a coach. In September, he began training the next layer – the neighborhood point people.

St. John the Evangelist has identified 12 neighborhoods and established 14 groups. Each group has at least one leader who has participated in weekly training and Todd is a living testament to how people can be conduits spiritual direction sessions. They have learned about of God’s love and grace. Years ago, not wedded to any faith evangelization, consolation and desolation in prayer, tradition, he was simultaneously grappling with a shaky Scripture, community, small-group dynamics, one-on-one faith in Jesus and health issues. A friend suggested he visit ministry and more. In a nutshell, they have been formed as a prayer group being held at Queen of the Miraculous intentional disciples.

Medal parish in Jackson. “For some reason, I went,” says Todd is excited. “The leaders, who range in age from early Todd. “They prayed 20s to mid-70s, are on over me, and I had this fire,” he says. “I have the incredible experience honor of meeting with that I can’t even put them, watching their into words. It set me on prayer lives come alive the road to conversion and discovering things and, after some time, I in Scripture they never was baptized with my noticed before. Many daughter at Queens. have told me how Soon after, I was asked much this has changed The Diocese of Lansing is committed to to be part of Queens’ their lives, declaring, supporting parish initiatives in four principal staff.” Todd never ‘This is what I have areas: Intercessory Prayer, Discipleship looked back. been waiting for!’ The Groups, Encounter Opportunities and Quite the opposite, Evangelical Catholic Welcoming Environments. Therefore, in fact. Todd is program has been just the diocese announces the availability of forward focused for amazing.”

New Evangelization grants made possible the parishioners at The trained through DSA support. Contact Craig Pohl, St. John, working neighborhood leaders director of new evangelization, for grant with Father Charles met with their small application information.

Canoy to energize groups for the six the congregation weeks of Lent, with as evangelists and specific liturgical-based disciples. Father material providing a Charles’ plan was to divide the parish into neighborhoods, springboard for prayer and Scripture-inspired discussion. appointing a point person to be the go-between in forming At the end of those sessions, each group was able to steer its small groups. “There were so many little pieces to making own course. Some have continued with a Bible study, some that happen,” adds Todd. “When we learned about a video series, some wish to study the saints. They also have Evangelical Catholic, it fit like a glove.” the option of merging with another group.

Evangelical Catholic began as a campus ministry “We have the potential of 100 small groups evolving over program. The program’s goal is creating intentional time, all neighborhood-based,” says Todd. “Our ideal is that ministers who will help move people into deepening everyone in the parish is involved, even if it’s just during discipleship. It works on a pyramid model – first training Lent and Advent. I love that this is lay-driven, giving people the trainers, and then it trickles down until it reaches a better chance to connect, often in their own homes. We everyone. It was so successful on campuses, they branched are bringing the Church to them so they can participate in out to bring parishes onboard. a deeper, richer encounter with Mass and the sacraments at Piloted to parishes three years ago, 25 parishes around the parish.” the country currently use it, including St. John the Evangelist – which was able to bring this program to Visit the New Evangelization ministry page at Jackson with the help of a DSA-funded diocesan grant.

DIOCESEOFLANSING.ORG, or contact your parish Todd’s training began last July and was accomplished to learn more about evangelization resources and with face-to-face as well as online sessions. He had weekly efforts under way.

E

NEW EVANGELIZATION GRANTS

YOUR STORIES DSA 2018

Piloted to parishes three years ago, 25 parishes around the country currently use Evangelical Catholic, including St. John the Evangelist – which was able to bring this program to Jackson with the help of a DSA-funded diocesan grant.

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'You could feel

God in the ai r' ALEXA WANTS TO SHARE THE JOY OF FAITHFEST WITH EVERYONE YOUR STORIES FAITHFEST

DR. ALEXA VITEK-HITCHCOCK, owner of Vitek Family Dentistry in DeWitt, first met Father David Rosenberg when he was referred to her dental

BY EMILY N. LENHARD

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“My family knew Father Dwight Ezop back when I was in high school,” says Alexa. “In 2010, he recommended me as a professional from a faith-filled family to Father Rosenberg, who was new to DeWitt at the time and looking for a dentist.”

It was a good recommendation; from then on, Father David was a patient of Alexa’s, even when he was reassigned to parishes in Saline and Charlotte.

No matter the distance, Father David kept his appointments. Throughout the next four years, they developed a prayerful relationship, and Alexa opened up about her dream to find a husband.

FAITH Magazine | MAY 2018 | WWW.FAITHPUB.COM

DON QUILLAN

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY TOM GENNARA

practice by another priest.

“Father Rosenberg always told me that he never prays for people to get something specific or something they want,” says Alexa. “But he prayed for God’s good intentions for me, and that I would find the husband that would illuminate God’s plan for me.”

As a dentist and small business owner, Alexa’s schedule was busy; it was hard for her to find time to go out and meet new people, which made the challenge of fulfilling her dream more difficult.

“And DeWitt’s not the biggest town,” Alexa laughs. “But Father said he knew that I had a prayerful heart and disposition, and that God would

bring me to the man whom I deserved. So, I stayed faithful.”

Alexa decided to join CatholicMatch.com because some of her friends had met their spouses that way, and she took comfort knowing that she would have an increased chance of meeting people who shared her core beliefs. Shortly after, in June 2014, she met her husband, Michael. By September 2015, they were married

by Father David.

“Father was so crucial for me in meeting my husband and creating that relationship that we had to have him marry us,” says Alexa. “He was part of our journey together, so it meant everything for him to be part our ceremony.”

Just a few months later, Father David contacted Alexa with a dream of his own.

For years, Father explained to Alexa, the bishop had tasked him with promoting evangelization and Catholic community, no matter where he was stationed. And being that he had recently transferred to the St. Francis Retreat Center, he’d come up with an idea.

“He wanted to have a music festival for families,” says Alexa. “There’s this narrative that the Catholic Church is unwelcoming, so he wanted to work against that by promoting positive activities.”

Alexa was on board; Father David’s idea resonated with her and her husband. Part of their core values are to support community-oriented events that create a positive environments for families to thrive. Alexa and Michael look for opportunities to help kids stay off drugs, prevent teenage pregnancy and focus on the family unit. To them, this seemed like the perfect opportunity.

“As Catholics, we have to focus on inclusivity,” says Alexa. “Helping to create something that not only welcomes, but actively benefits everyone who

walks in the door is a great way to foster that kind of environment.”

Alexa remembers setting up their sponsorship booth for the first FAITHFest in 2016. It was much larger than she anticipated; thousands of people attended from across the state and the country to share in praise and worship led by headline musicians, play games, share in food and fellowship, and celebrate Mass.

“You could feel God in the air,” says Alexa, recalling the Mass with more than 5,000 attendees. “I’ve never experienced anything like it. And not everyone was Catholic, but they were there to celebrate with us. It blew me away. It’s the most incredibly moving experience I’ve had. You couldn’t walk out of there without feeling something bigger than yourself.”

At that festival, Father David called Alexa on stage to thank her for being a sponsor.

“I just told everyone about what Father had done for me, how he had helped me accomplish my dream, and that I wanted to help give him his dream,” says Alexa. “And it happened; he acted as a shepherd for the flock – not just at FAITHFest, but for the community.”

At FAITHFest, the segment of the community that stuck out most to Alexa were the teenagers.

“We don’t give teenagers the credit they deserve,” says Alexa. “A lot of people fear what the future of the Catholic Church might look like, but seeing all these teens cheering, singing, not worried about what they looked like and not checking their phones, it was so empowering. They were happy and proud to celebrate Christ with their friends and families. They’re proud to be Catholic, and they’re not afraid to tell you.”

Alexa is hoping that this year’s FAITHFest will be the most successful yet. But to do that, she says, Catholics need to reach out.

“I want people who read FAITH magazine to know that they need to invite their friends and neighbors who are not Catholic to attend FAITHFest with them,” says Alexa. “This isn’t just about Catholics, this is about the good of community and Christ’s Church. For someone who doesn’t know God yet, what better way to introduce them and help build that relationship?”

LEARN MORE THIS YEAR'S FAITHFEST, THE ANNUAL FAMILY FESTIVAL OF MUSIC AND WORSHIP AT ST. FRANCIS RETREAT CENTER, IS ON SATURDAY, JUNE 23, 2018. VISIT FAITHFEST.COM FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO PURCHASE TICKETS.

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CULTURE

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A dessert fit for a

MAY CROWNING I F THERE WAS ever a moment I desperately wanted on camera, it was when I discovered my daughter and niece taking part in a May crowning ceremony they had put together in our backyard.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHANE FOLKERTSMA

6-8 shooter glasses 1 cup crushed graham crackers 2 tablespoons butter (melted) 1 teaspoon sugar 8 oz cream cheese (room temp) ½ cup granulated sugar 1 cup heavy cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon lemon zest Blue or violet food coloring Fresh blueberries Whipped cream topping (store bought or homemade) In a medium bowl, mix melted butter, graham cracker crumbs and sugar until combined.

Distribute evenly between individual serving glasses. Press down on crumbs to form a crust.

For the filling, beat cream cheese, sugar and heavy cream in a large bowl until smooth (using an electric mixer). Using a rubber spatula, scrape down sides of the bowl. Add lemon zest, vanilla and 1-2 drops of food coloring. Continue to beat until light and creamy. Evenly spoon (or pipe using a piping bag) about ¼ to ½ cup of filling into each serving cup. Cover and place in the fridge for at least one hour. Top with fresh blueberries and whipped cream topping before serving.

13-year-old daughter just how much joy her May crowning ceremony brought to me as a mom. I even told her about my moment of frustration at the time with not finding my camera to capture it all. Her brilliant response?

To “re-create it annually” with her cousin. And now it is a yearly event every May with tea and one of her favorite desserts to honor Our Lady, Queen of Heaven and Earth.

T. Gennara

It was a pleasantly cool, sunny their Queen of Heaven and Earth. day in May, and I was getting dinner And I soaked it all in. ready in the kitchen. Through an It occurred to me, right then and open window, I heard the faint and there, that if I had spent the entire tender voices of young girls singing time trying to get the perfect shot, “Hail Holy Queen.” I I would’ve totally missed looked up and noticed my out on the unfiltered then 9-year-old daughter beauty of the moment. and her cousin dressed And, most importantly, up, and processing the opportunity to reflect through the backyard on why we honor Mary in with a statue of Mary. the first place.

I remember dropping Had I found my WHY DOES everything to look for my phone to capture the one MARY WEAR phone, so I could take a moment that my daughter BLUE? photo or video, but it was was honoring Mary nowhere in sight. So there without any prompting, In the Ancient I stood just watching.

I might have clicked a World, the I knew they got the great image. I might have color blue was idea from their school, gotten an image that was associated with but I was amazed at endearing and beautiful; royalty. This the attention to detail a picture I would have association and work that went been proud to share with spread to the into putting their own everyone. But that’s just West and has together, right down to it. Such a moment should continued the gathered flowers and not be about me, or my through the blue paper crown they pride. It should not be ages. carefully crafted for Mary. about how darling the The setting couldn’t have girls were or how lovely been more perfect that day. The the day was. The moment was best flowers were in bloom, and the spent focused on Mary. And by not crystal clear blue sky provided a having my camera to distract me, I perfect backdrop for Our Lady. The was able to do just that. girls were all smiles as they gazed at I have since shared with my now

BLUE VANILLA CHEESECAKE PARFAITS

MICHELLE DIFRANCO

is a designer and the busy mom of three children.

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YOUR COMMUNITY THINGS TO DO May 2, 7-9 p.m., St. Thomas Aquinas Church, 955 Alton Rd., East Lansing will have a Parents and Godparents Baptism Seminar to prepare those who have a child to present for baptism. The session will present the theological, historical and practical aspects of baptism. For information, contact Al Weilbaecher at 517.3517.5460 or al@elcatholics.org.

May 7, 6 p.m., 34th annual Fr. Mac Scholarship Dinner fundraiser, at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center in East Lansing. Please join us for Lansing Catholic's premier fundraising event. Cocktail reception at 6 p.m.; dinner and program begin at 7 p.m. All proceeds benefit tuition assistance for LCHS students. For information, contact Colleen Murray at 517.267.2109 or colleen.murray@ lansingcatholic.org.

Lansing Catholic Lawyers Guild will be hosting its annual spring luncheon – main speaker is the Hon. Beth Clement. To attend, please contact Diane Arzberger at 517.402.2880 or lclguild@gmail. com. Please join us to celebrate faith and spirituality in the legal profession.

May 9, 6-9 p.m., Cristo Rey Church, 201 W. Miller Rd., Lansing will have Purse Bingo; doors open at 5 p.m.

Tickets are $15 each and can be purchased at the parish office at 517.394.4639. For information, please contact Nena Moreno at 517.882.7758.

May 11-13, Retrouvaille weekend retreat is a program to help couples heal and renew their marriage, and provides the tools to help put your marriage in order again. For information or to register, call 517.290.5596 or visit retrouvailleoflansing.com.

May 13, 10 a.m., Mass and dedication of shrine to Mary, Mother of Flint at St. Mary Parish, 2500 N. Franklin Ave., Flint.

Bishop Boyea will celebrate the Mass and dedicate the shrine. All are welcome to attend.

May 15, noon to 1:30 p.m., at St. Mary Cathedral Parish Hall, the

RETREAT CENTERS ST. FRANCIS RETREAT, DEWITT, STFRANCIS.WS or 866.669.8321 May 17, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., "Living a Purpose Driven Life: Take firm hold on the everlasting life to which you were called." Take a day to re-evaluate or fine tune the direction of your life in the light of the Gospel. A retreat for all ages and walks of life. Cost is $65 or $55 for seniors 60+ and includes Mass and lunch.

May 20, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., "Marriage: Building Trust, Communication and Intimacy with Each Other and the Lord" is a retreat to get away and deepen your marital bond in joy, love and mutual understanding of one another and the Lord. The cost is $95 per couple and includes Mass and lunch.

God's love through memory loss: Fridays, May 4, 11, 18, 25; Jun 1, 8, 15, 10:30 a.m–noon, cost: $5/session. Please join us in remembering as God remembers, even as others may forget. Both family caregivers and their loved one with memory loss are invited to attend together. This program is designed to: give time for family caregivers to nurture and renew their spirit as we celebrate and support the role of family caregiver; offer loved ones with memory loss an opportunity to participate in a creative program engaging them in their present moment and embracing them as they are; provide both the family caregiver and their loved one a common guided experience.

May 5, 8:30 a.m.-noon, Be still in sacred spaces: A morning of relaxation and peace. The best gift that you can give the world is a you that is fully present. Come, retreat to a place focused on quieting the environment around and all that is within you. Learn to respond to your need and longing for time and space to renew body, mind and spirit. Cost is $20 and includes continental breakfast.

HAVE A CHILD TO PRESENT FOR BAPTISM? ATTEND A PARENTS AND GODPARENTS BAPTISM SEMINAR

BOTH FAMILY CAREGIVERS AND THEIR LOVED ONE WITH MEMORY LOSS ARE INVITED TO ATTEND GOD’S LOVE THROUGH MEMORY LOSS

AS YOU DO YOUR SPRING CLEANING, PLEASE REMEMBER CATHOLIC CHARITIES’ CENTER FOR HOPE COMMUNITY CLOSET

May 15, 7 p.m. and May 20, 2 p.m., a new group of people seeking to learn about the Catholic Church will begin meeting at St. John Church and Student Center, 327 M.A.C. Ave., East Lansing. Please select the time you want to attend.

For information, contact Pete Ries at 517.351.5460, ext. 1328 or pries@ elcatholics.org.

May 17, 4-10 p.m., May 18, 4-11 p.m., May 19, noon-11 p.m. and May 20, noon-6 p.m., St. Peter, Eaton Rapids is hosting its Ox Roast Festival and Carnival. Presale ride bands are available for $15 until May 16 at the parish office, open weekdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 517.663.4735.

May 19, 9 a.m., shotgun start, St. Michael Parish School 26th annual golf outing will be held at the Grand Ledge Country Club, 5811 E. St. Joe Hwy. For more information, call 517.614.3410 or email lyn11nie@ yahoo.com.

May 20, 2 p.m., All Faith Ministry for Disabilities will host a Special Needs Mass followed by refreshments at the St. Francis Retreat Center Chapel, 703 E. Main Street in DeWitt . Please RSVP to Cathy Blatnik by May 15 at 517.381.1410 or at lcblatnik@ juno.com. Everyone is welcome.

For more information, please visit disabilitiesministries.org.

June 7, ArborWoman is excited to celebrate its 10th anniversary with a new event “Take Root,” to raise awareness, friends and funds to support its services at The Valley at Frutig Farms. This event offers guests the opportunity to understand ArborWoman's mission and share in the excitement of its future plans. Contact Iris at director@arborwoman.com or register to attend and/or donate to this event and organization at arborwomanevents.com.

June 8, 10 a.m., shotgun start,

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Lansing Catholic High School will have its 30th annual Cougar Classic at Timber Ridge Golf Club. Player fee is $135. Join us for enjoyable day of golf. This fundraiser will help more than 500 high school students. For more information or to register, please contact Paula Wilcox at 517.267.2121 or paula.wilcox@ lansingcatholic.org; or Colleen Murray at 517.267.2109 or colleen. murray@lansingcatholic.org.

June 9, 5:30 p.m., St. Mark the Evangelist, Goodrich will have a Polka Mass as part of its 40th anniversary year celebration. Virgil Baker and the “Just for Fun Band” will be at the Mass. Following the Mass is a dinner at 6:30 p.m. and dancing from 7:30-10:30 p.m.

Tickets are $10 and available after the liturgy.

June 14-15, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., and June 16, 8-11 a.m., St. Francis of Assisi Parish, 2250 E. Stadium, Ann Arbor will host its annual rummage sale. For more information, call 734.769.2550 or visit stfrancisa2.com.

July 21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., St. John Catholic Church, Howell will host its annual Classical Car Show.

A family day to see great cars, enjoy scrumptious food and fun entertainment. All are welcome to attend. For information, call the parish office at 517.546.7200.

Registration is available now at Immaculate Heart of Mary-St. Casimir School, 3830 Rosemont, Lansing, 517.882.6631: Are you looking for a culturally diverse Catholic school? For the 2018-2019 year, our school community has

CATHOLIC CHARITIES CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SHIAWASSEE AND GENESEE COUNTIES, FLINT: 810.232.9950 or OWOSSO: 989.723.8239, or CCSGC.ORG • I f you are interested in being a volunteer with Catholic Charities this summer, please call 810.265.7025.

•L oving foster families are urgently needed, please consider opening your heart and home to a child in need. For more information, call Catholic Charities Children’s Services Department at 810.232.3418.

•A s you do your spring cleaning, please remember Catholic Charities’ Center for Hope Community Closet, items needed are: new or gently used towels, sheets and comforters. Also will accept clothing, furniture, working appliances, household and personal hygiene items. For more information, please call 810.265.7025.

•C harities’ Work Ready Room is located in the Center for Hope Community Closet, open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon, by appointment only. It provides interview and work apparel, along with resource information for individuals who are job searching. Please consider donating your gently used workappropriate clothes. Drop off available at the Center for Hope, Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. For information, call 810.265.7025 ext. 713.

CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES OF WASHTENAW COUNTY, 734.327.9717 or CSSWASHTENAW.ORG •A re you looking to grow your family? Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw wants to help. It works with pregnant women to create successful open adoptions for newborns.

To learn more, you are invited to attend a newborn adoption information meeting, held every second Wednesday from 5-7 p.m. at 4925 Packard Rd. in Ann Arbor. More information available online at csswashtenaw.org/pregnancy-adoption/ adoption-service/ or call 734.971.9781 ext. 322.

•T he Volunteer Caregiver Respite program matches volunteers

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the highest diversity of any school in the area. Please call and set up a visit to meet the principal and take a tour so you can make an informed decision. Kindergarten testing begins in April, so call to set up a tour soon. Information and applications are available online at www.ihmlansing.org.

SAVE THE DATE: Feb. 4-17, 2019, Journey to Antarctica aboard the National Geographic Explorer with Father Andrew Czajkowski.

Enjoy 24 hours of sunlight and absorb the sights and sounds of marine life stretching across ice-covered mountains for more than five million square miles in the world’s last great wilderness. For information, call St. John the Evangelist, Davison at 810.653.2377.

who can provide two to four hours a week of companionship and service for disabled adults in their homes. To find out how you can be a respite provider, contact Andrea at 734.712.7774 or atraskos@csswashtenaw.org.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY CATHOLIC CHARITIES, 517.545.5944 or LIVINGSTONCATHOLICCHARITIES.ORG •C aregiver Support Group for Dementia and Alzheimer’s meets every 3rd Wednesday of each month, 4:30-6:30 p.m., at Be Our Guest Adult Day Service, 2020 E. Grand River, Ste. 103, Howell – a program of Livingston County Catholic Charities.

For information, call 517.546.9910. (Respite service is available, please pre-register if care is needed.)

• Bring joy to a homebound senior: Livingston County Catholic Charities is looking for volunteers who like working with older adults. Opportunities include, but are not limited to: friendly home visits; transport older adults to appointments; errands and respite care for family members. If you know someone who would benefit from these services or want to volunteer, please contact Linda Bauby at 517.545.5944 ext.121 or linda@ livingstoncatholiccharities.org. More information about these programs is available online at livingstoncatholiccharities.org.

ST. VINCENT CATHOLIC CHARITIES, LANSING, 517.323.4734 or STVCC.ORG •J oin us in celebrating 70 years of service: This year is a special one as it marks 70 years since St. Vincent Catholic Charities (STVCC) opened its doors to serve the community’s most vulnerable. STVCC was founded in 1948 to help meet the adoption and child placement needs of Michigan’s capital city and surrounding communities. The past 70 years would not be possible without the incredible support of donors, volunteers and staff. Thank you to all who make our work possible.

• St. Vincent Catholic Charities encourages foster families to attend April 27-28 two-day Empowered to Connect Conference at Mount Hope Church in Lansing presented

by Show Hope and the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development. To register, visit mounthopechurch.org.

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YOUR COMMUNITY LOCAL NEWS

PRIEST ASSIGNMENTS

FATHER PHIL SCHMITTER HONORED WITH NAACP AWARD

Bishop Boyea announces the following pastoral appointments effective June 27 unless otherwise noted:

On March 10, Father Phil Schmitter, pastor of Christ the King Catholic Church in Flint, was awarded with the Cecilia M. Turner Humanitarian Award by the NAACP, Flint Branch, for being on the forefront of environmental justice “before there was a water crisis in Flint.”

In 1994, Father Phil, along with Sister Joanne Chiaverini, filed a complaint with the EPA in opposition to a power plant that polluted Flint’s largely AfricanAmerican community. For 24 years, he was “steadfast and immovable,” finally getting the EPA to acknowledge that its decision to allow the license to operate the plant was based on the race and socioeconomic conditions of the community.

NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO OF CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES OF WASHTENAW COUNTY In March, Bishop Earl Boyea approved the appointment of Peg Bravo to president and chief executive officer for Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County (CSSWC). Peg brings over 30 years of leadership experience to the role, having served in clinical/ nursing leadership roles as well as an executive operational role for multiple wellness centers across the country. Peg is honored to continue the legacy and excellent work of CSSWC. She and her husband have two grown children, and are members of St. Mary Parish in Chelsea.

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REQUIESCAT IN PACE Sister Maria Kassab, CSJ, died on Mar. 16. 2018, at the age of 94. She took her vows into the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Nazareth in 1945. As a certified catechist, Sister Maria ministered for 39 years as a teacher in several schools, including St. John in Davison.

REQUIESCAT IN PACE Deacon Bernard Pohl of Westphalia died on March 2, 2018, at the age of 89. During Bernard’s 40 years of service with St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Westphalia as a deacon, he held multiple roles in the church as the sexton of the cemetery, a facilities manager at St. Mary’s School, a CCD teacher, and a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Order of Foresters.

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• Rev. Robert Bacik, from parochial vicar of St. John the Evangelist, Davison, to administrator of St. Isidore, Laingsburg, and Holy Family, Ovid.

• Rev. Satheesh Caniton, SdC, pastor of Our Lady of Fatima, Michigan Center.

• Rev. David Hudgins, judicial vicar.

• Rev. Daniel Kogut, from administrator to pastor of St. Mary, Pinckney, and liaison for the charismatic communities in the Diocese of Lansing.

• Rev. Brian Lenz, from parochial vicar for St. John the Evangelist, Jackson to chaplain of Lumen Christi High School.

• Rev. Jack Loughran, OSFS, administrator of St. Mary and St. Joseph, Adrian, in a cluster moving toward merger, effective Aug. 1.

• Rev. Timothy McIntire, OSFS, parochial vicar of St. Mary and St. Joseph, Adrian, effective Aug. 1.

• Msgr. George Michalek, from judicial vicar to pastor of St. Mary, Morrice. Continues as vicechancellor and diocesan archivist.

• Rev. Vincent J. Thaiparambil, chaplain at University of Michigan Hospital and in-residence at St. Thomas, Ann Arbor.

• Msgr. Gerald Vincke, pastor of St. Mark, Goodrich. Continues as pastor of Holy Family, Grand Blanc.

• Rev. Daniel Westermann, parochial vicar for St. Mark, Goodrich. Continues as parochial vicar for Holy Family, Grand Blanc.

• TBD, pastor of St. Mary, Ann Arbor (still awaiting word from the Provincial).

Save the Date!

On May 13, the Catholic Community of Flint is dedicating a shrine to Our Lady under the title of Mary, Mother of Flint.

A Mass at 10:00 a.m. will be celebrated by Bishop Boyea at St. Mary Parish, 2500 N. Franklin Ave., Flint, followed by the blessing of the Mary, Mother of Flint outdoor shrine.

On this day, the Catholic Community of Flint will ask for Mary’s motherly intercession, and ask her, under this new title, to be their common patroness, whether parishioners are from St. Michael, St. Mary, St. Matthew or St. John Vianney.

LANSING CATHOLIC STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN FILMING OF DOCUMENTARY On March 22, Lansing Catholic High School students participated in the filming of a documentary in March about evangelization and Catholic schools. It is a follow-up to Fearless, a documentary released last spring. Ben Pohl, director of campus ministry for Lansing Catholic, explains: “[The follow-up] takes the model of Fearless, that is, spiritled evangelization in the mold of the early Church, where signs and wonders accompanied the proclamation of the Gospel, and then looks at how that would impact Catholic high schools. And so this follow-up documentary is kind of taking that paradigm of Fearless and looking at it in the context of Catholic high schools.”

The documentary, produced by Holy Spirit Media and directed by Maura Smith, will feature Catholic high schools across America and will include interviews with several Lansing Catholic students on their faith and commitment to God. In addition to the interviews, a two-hour evangelization event was also filmed at Lansing Catholic, where Patrick Reis, founder of Encounter Ministries, shared his testimony of conversion and spoke to the students about discipleship, the role of the Holy Spirit and the power of God in their lives.

Then, Father Mathias Thelen led a healing service, where he prayed for the healing of staff and students.

Though the documentary doesn’t have a release date as of yet, Ben believes the effects of the film will be felt long after it premieres: “It's a chance for our students, who face so many challenges in living out their faith, to increase their faith and to imagine the role that the Holy Spirit might play in their lives, both right now and in the future.” – EMILY ORLANDO

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The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing IN THE KNOW WITH FATHER JOE:

MAY 2018 VOLUME 18: ISSUE 4

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In a homily on March 15, Pope Francis spoke of the need for courage and patience in intercessory prayer. He said, "If I want the Lord to listen to what I am asking him, I have to go, and go and go – knock on the door and knock on God's heart." The Holy Father referred to the day’s reading from the Book of Exodus, in which Moses spoke to the Lord and pleaded with him not to destroy his people, and the Lord relented. Just as Moses spoke truthfully to God and implored him to spare his people, so, too, must we be committed to our prayer. He said: “This is intercessory prayer: a prayer that argues and has the courage to speak directly to the face of the Lord, who is patient. Patience is needed in intercessory prayer. We cannot promise someone we will pray for them, pray only an Our Father and a Hail Mary, and then leave it at that. No. If you agree to pray for someone else, you must take this [other] path. And patience is needed.”

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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 FAITHpub.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. ©2017 FAITH Catholic. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Catholic.

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The family of Asia Bibi, a Christian Pakistani woman jailed for nine years for blasphemy, visited the Vatican recently. The anti-blasphemy law is known to be used against religious minorities. During their visit, Pope Francis gave Asia’s daughter a rosary for herself, and one to give to her mother, and assured her of his prayers. For the first time since being jailed, Asia has been allowed to keep a rosary in her cell. Asia has said that it is a “miracle” she is allowed to keep the rosary, and that “this rosary will be of great consolation for me, just as it comforts me to know that the Holy Father prays for me and thinks of me in these difficult conditions.” The visit was arranged by a papal charity that supports persecuted Christians.

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