PARENTING JOURNEY: I can’t talk to my Mom because she’s distracted by her phone IN THE KNOW WITH FATHER JOE: Why is it still Easter? LAST WORD: Deacons have a call of their own
Carl embraces both
FAITH SCIENCE
AND
each day
‘WHO CAN SEE A CONFLICT IN THAT?’
2 017 K N IGH T S FA M I LY N IGH T to celebr at e vocat ions F R I D AY, A U G U S T 11, 2 0 17 AT COOLEY LAW SCHOOL STADIUM Last year, roughly 2,000 Roman Catholics from around the Diocese of Lansing enjoyed a game with Bishop Boyea! Thanks to everyone who participated!
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JOIN US FOR GOLF W E D N E S D AY, A U G U S T, 3 0 , 2 0 1 7
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OUR BODILY INTEGRITY AS HUMAN BEINGS
BISHOP EARL BOYEA Carlson Productions
FROM THE BISHOP
is the fifth bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing @BishopBoyea
WE KNOW FROM THE BIBLE that God made us body and soul, male and female, and that this is very good. This union of the spiritual and the material, of the particular body and the soul, are at the very heart of our understanding, as Christians, what it means to be a human being. The Catechism of the Catholic Church has this to say about our bodily integrity: The human body shares in the dignity of the “image of God”: it is a human body precisely because it is animated by a spiritual soul…. “Man, though made up of body and soul, is a unity. ... For this reason man may not despise his bodily life. Rather he is to regard his body as good and to hold it in honor since God created it and will raise it up on the last day” (#364).
Man, though made up of body and soul, is a unity. ... For this reason man may not despise his bodily life. Rather he is to regard his body as good and to hold it in honor since God created it and will raise it up on the last day”
Yet, there are people in our midst who are not comfortable in their own skin. It is unclear what causes these difficulties and, indeed, these are experienced as painful psychologically and sometimes even neurologically and physically. So, what is the compassionate, Christian response to these brothers and sisters of ours? And, in particular, how are we to respond to those who do not share our Christian beliefs and who may not accept the Church’s teachings as a moral guideline to inform this discussion? It seems to me that there is another way to approach these issues. As an example, we all know of those who struggle with anorexia, who believe they are a thin person trapped in an overweight body, which, of course, is simply not true – the actual body demonstrates this. And thus they do not eat and lose way too much weight. Or someone struggling with bulimia may binge and purge out of fear of gaining weight which could also be tied to a sense of their own body image which is clearly not a reality. A more extreme case would be those who struggle with “body integrity identity disorder.” These sisters and brothers really believe that they should not have a certain limb. The most common is men desiring to have their left leg amputated because they do not feel that it is their leg. Yet, the actual body demonstrates that it is indeed attached to them. In addition, there are those who have “body dysmorphic disorder” who obsess at some length over their physical appearance, perhaps over some self-perceived flaw that no one else can see. Recently, there was a Caucasian woman who headed a local chapter of the NAACP because she believed she was African American. She was “outed” by her own parents in June 2015 because her body was not, in fact, that of an African American. Now the question becomes for us in these and other cases: do we agree to the requests of these our brothers and sisters and deny the actual facts of their bodily integrity? Do we assist them and support them in changing their bodies to conform to their sense of themselves? Or do we do all we can to help them see the integrity of their body-soul unity, to help them accept their own body and to see that the body does manifest the person? Obviously, there are many applications of this later approach, but it is the only approach which does respect the reality of their physical bodies. As Christians, it is our task to support God’s creation of us and the Spirit’s on-going sanctification of us as we make our pilgrimage back to our Heavenly Father. Thus in all the cases mentioned above, and any others, we must love the person and provide counseling and support. However, it would be a violation of God’s creation and of the bodily integrity of another to support any denial of that bodily integrity. Admittedly, this can be a difficult path to walk, but we do so with love and with the Lord at our side. 3
FROM THE EDITOR
What I learned from Mr. Simpson Faith and science work hand in hand T
DISCIPLESHIP
For personal reflection or small group discussion
HERE I WAS, all fresh-faced and eager, sitting in the second row of desks, near the center of Mr. Simpson's ninth grade biology class at Douglas MacArthur High
School in Saginaw Township. It was September of 1979, and I was beginning my high school career. Mr. Simpson had just finished distributing our textbooks as well as the course syllabus for the first semester. I remember thinking that this was going to be an exciting class, opening up the wonders of the mystery of life in its many forms. Mr. Simpson had a reputation for being a demanding but fair teacher, and in looking around his classroom, it was evident that he had a love for the world of nature, and a special interest in ecology. Through the years, he and his students had been involved in
Parenting Journey 1. How can you, as a parent or a child, be more present and less distracted during the time you spend with your parents or children? 2. What can you do to create more time for being together?
a variety of efforts to support research into clean air and clean water, and there were
Spiritual Fitness
plenty of bumper stickers and newspaper articles to prove it.
1. In what ways has the Holy Spirit strengthened or comforted you in times of difficulty? 2. How do you feel the Spirit calling you to share the message of God’s love with others?
T.Gennera
After explaining the grading scale and his classroom policies, Mr. Simpson asked all of us to open our textbooks to the first chapter, so that we could begin reading. The first chapter began where I suppose most modern biology textbooks begin – with Darwin's theory of evolution. After giving the class a few moments to begin reading the opening sentences of the chapter, he asked all of us to stop for a moment so he could speak to us. Looking up, I gave him my undivided attention as he shared something quite important and even stunning with the students in class that day. He shared that he knew that beginning with the theory of evolution might be a difficult starting point for some students in the class. He then offered some of the most reassuring advice: one can be a scientist and a person of faith, and the two are not mutually exclusive of one another. Science does not have as its intention the proof or denial of one's faith, and faith does not, in a general sense, have as its intention the proof or denial of scientific theories. As one who was intensely interested in science and also very much involved in his faith, I found these words to offer a huge measure of comfort. If my path were to ultimately lead me (as I hoped at that time) toward a career in the sciences, I would not be FATHER forced to leave behind the faith my parents had sought to share with DWIGHT EZOP me and which was being fostered in a very active parish community. is the editor of Mr. Simpson's words that day were both a relief and a challenge. As FAITH Magazine Brother Guy Consolmagno, an astronomer at the Vatican Observatory and pastor of and president of the Vatican Observatory Foundation would state in St. Mary Parish, an interview many years later, "Science is our best way of describing Charlotte and how the universe behaves. You might say, where faith tells us that God St. Ann Church, created the universe, science tells us how he did it." In other words, Bellevue faith and science can work hand in hand to bring about a deep, rich and Email: editor@ nuanced understanding of the world around us. FAITHpub.com. Carl Boehlert is both a permanent deacon and an engineering professor at Michigan State University. He reminds us that many scientists are also people of faith. His unique blend of vocation as a deacon and his avocation as an engineer allows him to help people as they seek to understand the world in which they live. Too many young people with an interest in science feel as though they are being forced to leave their faith behind in order to enter more deeply into the world of science and scientific research. People such as Professor Boehlert and Mr. Simpson help to remind us that faith and science can exist in partnership with one another, helping us to better understand and appreciate the world which God has fashioned for us. And so, our journey in FAITH continues. 4
FAITH HELPS
FAITH Magazine | JUNE 2017 | WWW.FAITHPUB.COM
Theology 101
1. In your own experiences of loss, what gave you a sense of comfort or reassurance?
Cover story 1. How does your faith affect the way you interact with others in your workplace? 2. Discuss the concept Fr. Dwight mentioned in his column about science and religion: “Where faith tells us that God created the universe, science tells us how he did it.”
Feature: Travis Epps 1. How can we support people in our community as they are released from prison and reenter society?
FIND MORE ONLINE GO TO FAITHPUB.COM TO FIND ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS AND RESOURCES
INSIDE JUNE 2017
YOUR LIFE
6 marriage matters She says: ‘His mother is too involved in our parenting.’ He says: ‘Mom just wants to help.’ What do they do?
7 parenting journey I can’t talk to my Mom because she’s distracted by her phone work life I’m overwhelmed with personal invitations from employees
8 goodlife Finally have money in the bank? Spend it or save it?
YOUR FAITH
9 spiritual fitness Lectio Divina – Praying through the year with Scripture
10 in the know with Father Joe Why is it still Easter? COVER STORY
12 theology 101
CARL EMBRACES BOTH FAITH AND SCIENCE EACH DAY – ‘WHO CAN SEE A CONFLICT IN THAT?’ P. 16
What do you say when … A friend wonders why her young sister just died while her abusive grandfather is still alive?
YOUR STORIES P. 14
20 my story With help from Catholic Charities, Travis reconnects with community after prison
P. 20
FOLLOW FAITH PUB SHARE YOUR FAITH WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FOLLOWERS
22 ordination 2017 Deacon ordination 2017
PLUS
30 last word Deacons have a call of their own 5
YOUR LIFE
MARRIAGE MATTERS
SHE SAYS:
His mother is too involved in our parenting I love my mother-in-law, but ever since we had a baby, she’s driving me crazy. She is constantly telling me how often he should be fed, how long he should sleep and how long I should let him cry before picking him up. Matt just tells me to ignore her, but he is not the one dealing with the daily drop-in visits and nagging. And I’m afraid it’s going to get worse as our son gets older. I want him to tell her to back off.
HE SAYS:
STEVE AND BRIDGET PATTON
I know Jenny is having a difficult time – but Mom just wants to help and be involved. I don’t understand why Jenny can’t let Mom’s comments roll off her back. I’m not comfortable telling my mother she shouldn’t give advice.
GETTY IMAGES
Mom just wants to help
M
ATT NEEDS TO MAKE IT CLEAR to his mom and Jenny that his primary WHAT DO allegiance is to his wife. God’s ancient THEY DO? command is unambiguous: “That is why a man leaves his father and mother and clings to his wife, and the two of them become one body.” (Gn 2:24)
READ MORE VISIT FAITHPUB.COM TO READ CONFLICT RESOLUTION: “HOW CAN I TELL MY MOM I DON’T LIKE ‘SURPRISE’ VISITS?”
6
Of course, “leaving” his mother and “clinging” to Jenny doesn’t mean Matt needs to be disloyal to his mom. It just means his concern for harmony and happiness within his new family must come before his concern for harmony and happiness with his mother. Here’s a way it can be achieved for everyone. Matt’s mom may not know how Jenny is feeling, and so she might need a heads-up. Moreover, she needs to have clear limits set. Who should do it? Even if Matt doesn’t get it about Jenny’s feelings, it’s nevertheless his duty, both as her husband and as his mother’s son, to talk to his mom. Only if Matt either cannot or will not – in which case he and Jenny have even bigger problems – should Jenny initiate.
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hold master’s degrees in theology and counseling and serve as family life ministers for the Diocese of Sacramento. It could go something like this: “Mom, we appreciate your love and concern for our son, but for the sake of our family we need you to make some changes. “First, please, no more uninvited drop-ins. We’ll definitely schedule get-togethers with you, like walks with the baby, coffee and so forth. But we need the freedom to set limits to these visits. “Second, you’re a good mom, but Jenny’s also a good mom, and so we need you to give her and us the deference and the space we need to take care of our son as we see fit. We will welcome your parenting input, but only when we ask for it.” (Note the repeated use of the words “we” and “us.”) Once you’ve laid these boundaries down, you don’t need to justify or explain them. It could help to come up with a couple of polite phrases to deploy, repeatedly if necessary, like "Thanks, Mom, but we’re doing it differently." If she persists, politely end the conversation. She may initially huff and puff, but she’s likely to eventually figure it out and comply, much to everyone’s greater happiness, including hers.
PARENTING JOURNEY
WORK LIFE
I’m overwhelmed with personal invitations from employees
I CAN’T TALK TO MY MOM BECAUSE SHE’S DISTRACTED BY HER PHONE
Q
Q
I run a small company and I’m often getting invited
to employees’ parties for their kids’ events, like graduations, weddings and first Communions. I hate to offend them, but if I go to everything, my spring and summer weekends would
I know you usually
never be my own. Can I pick and
answer questions from
choose, or is it all or nothing?
A which is employees’ and to
parents – but I’m a 14-year-old
Render to employees that
with a question about my mom.
weekends that which is weekends. You’re an employer, not a relative. If you’re worried about offending, perplexed about picking and choosing and crunched on weekends, the situation is out of hand. As an employer, you owe your employees a just wage, good working conditions and personal dignity. You don’t owe them your attendance at their significant family events. As a matter of fact, too much familiarity can undermine the working relationship. What if you need to discipline or terminate an employee? Would you hand them a pink slip at the birthday party? Be clear in your own mind what you want to do. There are no obligations. Then weigh each invitation on its own merits based on the event and relationship. For instance, the wedding of a long-term employee is not equal to the graduation of a recent employee’s son or daughter. A congratulatory card (no gift necessary) is sufficient and courteous. Then go fishing.
She spends all her time on her phone checking Facebook and Instagram – I’d really like to be being distracted. How can I bring this up?
GETTY IMAGES
able to talk to her without her
A
THE APPEAL OF SOCIAL MEDIA. When people are feeling out of touch with friends or family, then Facebook and Instagram provide ways to connect. If life seems overwhelming, then others react with a sad face or short comment. Your mom is getting some sort of boost by using social media, but she is missing out on deepening emotional connections in her own home.
T. GENNARA
Back in 2000, the White House Conference on Teenagers conducted a survey asking adolescents and their parents about family life concerns. The greatest concern of one-fifth of the teens was not spending enough time with parents, but only 10 percent of parents were most concerned about insufficient time with children.
DR. CATHLEEN MCGREAL
is a psychology professor and certified spiritual director.
SHARE YOUR FEELINGS. Let your mom know of your desire to interact more. Ask her to turn her phone off so you can talk without interruptions. Try not to get defensive if she challenges this; explain that it is important to have her full attention.
In a recent homily, Pope Francis said, “Deep within, [Mary] had learned to listen to the heartbeat of her Son, and that in turn taught her, throughout her life, to discover God’s heartbeat in history. She learned how to be a mother. ...” Pray for your mother as she continues to listen to God’s heartbeat.
T. GENNARA
PLAN SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES. Before your conversation, mull over activities you would like to do with your mom. Does she have hobbies you would like to learn while you still live at home? Many crafts require two hands and aren’t conducive to cell phone use! Brainstorm ideas!
JIM BERLUCCHI is the executive director of the Spitzer Center for Visionary Leadership.
7
YOUR LIFE GOODLIFE
FINALLY HAVE MONEY IN THE BANK?
SPEND IT OR SAVE IT?
H
ALLELUJAH! You have money in the bank and
an itch to spend it. As a young individual with no real obligations or financial responsibilities to speak of, this is a position most people would envy. However, before you blow your funds on a fabulous vacation, let’s examine some other options.
1
BUILD A SOLID SAVINGS ACCOUNT. I know, that
sounds boring. BUT – those financial responsibilities will be here before you know it and you will be happy you created some breathing room for yourself.
2
TAKE A MINI, BUDGET-FRIENDLY VACATION AND SAVE THE REST. Treat yourself
for being so savvy with your funds in the first place without zeroing out your cash.
3
IDENTIFY A GOAL FOR THE MONEY. Are you hoping to
attend a specific college? Is there a pricey city in which you’re dying to reside? Once you have a reason to keep saving, it can be exciting to watch the amount grow as you get closer to your goal.
4
GIVE BACK. It is always a good idea to give what you can, when you can. This doesn’t mean you need to donate all of it to your church or a cause of your choosing, but set aside a portion of it to bless others and you will find you are blessed in return.
As with other decisions, pray before deciding. If you keep God in your financial decisions, you will be able to handle your money rather than allowing your money to handle you. 8
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BY CYNTHIA KAAN
YOUR FAITH SPIRITUAL FITNESS
F
IRST, LET’S TAKE A LOOK at something we often overlook in our fast-paced society. Each Sunday since Easter has been marked
this way: the Second Sunday of Easter, the Third Sunday of Easter, etc. Easter is not just a special day in the year. The Church sets aside the Sundays from Easter to Pentecost as a six-week Easter celebration!
LECTIO DIVINA Praying through the year with Scripture Gospel for Pentecost Sunday
On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews,Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” (Jn 20:19-23)
T. Gennara
SISTER ANN SHIELDS
is a renowned author and a member of the Servants of God’s Love. @srannshieldssgl
Easter doesn’t celebrate a one-day occurrence. The resurrection of Jesus Christ changes everything. He has conquered death for us by his death on the cross; he has risen from the dead to show us that his death on the cross has triumphed over death forever. We die an earthly death, but if we believe in him, we will rise to eternal life. God in his mercy cancelled our eternal debt by dying for us. Therefore, we should celebrate. Begin by changing the way you think about Easter. We celebrate for six weeks, and then there is still more. With those thoughts in mind, let’s take a look at this passage from the Apostle John. Jesus has died, but all kinds of stories are circulating: some disciples say they have seen Jesus; Mary Magdalene tells them the tomb is empty, and then Jesus appears to her. She first thinks Jesus is the gardener, and then he calls her by name and that changes everything. She knows his voice saying her name. She runs to tell the other disciples. But the disciples find it hard to believe the reports they are hearing; they saw his cruelly beaten body; some of them buried him. He is dead, but others say he is alive. On top of that confusion, they are terrified what the Jews are going to do. They have locked the door for fear of the Jews. Can you imagine the turmoil, the confusion – how might you have responded? So right then in the midst of all their emotions – fear, doubt, hope, cynicism – Jesus appears to them. He wishes them peace – the gift they needed most right then. Then Jesus shows them the wounds he bore for them. They rejoice – it is Jesus! Right then, Jesus commissions them to preach the Gospel: “As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” But then Jesus breathes on them, imparting the Holy Spirit – giving to them and then to us his Spirit to dwell in us, to guide us and to lead us safely home to him forever. Truly. These are not symbols: The Holy Spirit is the love between the Father and the Son, a love so great that it is the third person of the Blessed Trinity. And Jesus gives us his Spirit so that all we need to live and preach the Gospel in the context of our own personal lives is given to us. Notice, at the end of this passage, God gives them the power to forgive sins so that we can always have hope – no matter how we sin. If we repent, Jesus will remove our sins through the ministry of a priest; it is unparalleled mercy which God imparts to us through his Holy Spirit. There is so much to rejoice in. Each of us in baptism became a temple of the Holy Spirit. Each of us, when we were confirmed, received the gifts of the Holy Spirit that we might grow in holiness and might be gifted in particular ways to help bring others into an understanding of the lavishness of God’s love and his gifts to each of us. By his Spirit, we are given the unfathomable blessing to live and walk in an ever-deepening union with him. Mystery? Yes. But true. Again, God shared himself with us, through his Spirit, that we might enter into a deep and personal relationship with the Father and the Son. READ MORE: TO ORDER, MORE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, BY SR. ANN SHIELDS VISIT WWW.RENEWALMINISTRIES.NET. 9
A
I think if we take a few minutes to really look at Easter, we’ll understand why it
encompasses a whole season in the Church, not just a day. At Easter, we look not just at what Jesus did for us in the resurrection, but also what he did to us.
YOUR FAITH IN THE KNOW WITH FATHER JOE
WHY IS IT STILL
EASTER? FATHER JOE – I’ve never Q DEAR understood why it’s June and we’re still
celebrating Easter at church. Why isn’t Easter over at the end of Easter Sunday?
10
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When I was a younger man, I traveled to Jerusalem and I went to the place where they laid Jesus’ body. It was an extraordinary experience to place my hand on the stone. I was blown away with the realization that this was the place where Hope was born. This was the place where God proved his love was stronger than all the hate and sin of the human race. As followers of Jesus, we are called to embrace daily the reality of taking up the cross and following him. We are conscious of this reality. We carry it in our hearts. We ponder this when we encounter suffering in our lives. We focus on “offering it up” and joining our pain to his pain. Daily, we remember that following Jesus comes with a cost, but this In the beautiful Easter season is a time for us to remember in a special Resurrection, way what that cost yields. we realize To do this, we’ll go back a bit Jesus not and start from the Incarnation. only took on In the mystery of God becoming man, Jesus embraced the human the human condition; he made it his own. experience He took every part of the human and joined it experience and drew it into the to the divine, divine. Dr. Peter Kreeft put it this way, “The first time Jesus wept, he invites human tears became holy.” us into the In tying himself so perfectly to divine with the human condition, he made it him.” possible for us to go to heaven. He walked through the darkest of human experiences and transformed them into divine experiences. Had he done nothing more than this, we would still worship him. We would still call him Lord. Lent focuses this reality. During Lent, we spent 40 days walking with Jesus through his passion. We did so to allow him to tie us more deeply to himself. This is important. We need to be more like Christ. We need to allow him to train our minds and hearts to embrace his priorities, to reject what the world and the devil and our flesh say is important. The more we become like Christ in mind and body,
death and in his resurrection, the life of all has risen!” We carry this in our hearts and allow the truth of it to change us. He has so united himself to us that we who follow him carry his resurrection in our body and in our soul. The resurrection power of Christ lives in us. We have all stood at too many graves and wept over the horror of death. We have all stood in the face of circumstances and situations that seemed so powerful as to overwhelm us. We have all pondered our lives and believed that we would always be hurt and damaged. We have all suffered because of our sins, and we have suffered because of the sins of others. At some point, we have all decided that hope was gone. The Easter season is the time when we hold those moments up to the lens of the resurrection, and claim the hope that Christ gives through his resurrection. We have hope that Christ has brought, and will continue to bring, life out of death. We embrace the wonder of an invincible, all-powerful God taking on all the sin and pain of the human race, putting it to death on the cross and rising because his love is stronger. In the words of the Apostle Paul, we are “more than conquerors” because of Christ. In this Easter season, ask God to strengthen in us the hope that we who follow Jesus are following him to the kingdom of heaven. Enjoy another day in God’s presence.
T. Gennara
the better we are at following him. And so, we set ourselves about the best task we could ever be commissioned to – to follow Christ. We follow him through the difficulties of our lives and through the joys. We follow him through those glorious moments where, for even a moment, we understand. We follow him through those dark and difficult days where we do not understand, but we trust. We respond to Christ entering our condition and transforming by walking with him through his suffering and death. As we recognize Christ walking with us, as we walk with him in a unique way during Lent, as we follow him through his suffering and death, we realize something extraordinary: he’s been leading us to heaven. We carve seven weeks out of our lives to ponder and celebrate the fact that we’re following Jesus to a specific destination. This is not a random journey where God adapts to the changing circumstances of our lives and tries to “make it all work out.” This has been, and always will be, an intentional journey toward the kingdom of heaven. In the Resurrection, we realize Jesus not only took on the human experience and joined it to the divine, he invites us into the divine with him. Our Preface prayer at Easter Masses reminds us that, through his resurrection, Jesus has “thrown open the gates of heaven to his faithful. For his death is our ransom from
FATHER JOE KRUPP
is a former comedy writer who is now a Catholic priest. @Joeinblack
READ MORE SR. ANN SHIELDS REFLECTED ON THE 50 DAYS OF EASTER IN HER COLUMN, “EASTER GRACE CONTINUES” AT FAITHPUB.COM.
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YOUR FAITH THEOLOGY 101
What do you say when …
In 2017, Theology 101 is focusing on the topic of evangelization. Specifically, the task is to offer some ways of approaching various questions Catholics may encounter from co-workers, family and friends regarding the practice of the faith. Of course, we must remember that nothing can replace the power of witnessing to the Good News through our own actions and words, combined with our willingness to accompany others on their faith journey.
THE QUESTION: My friend’s sister, who was a wonderful young person, just died. What do I say to my friend when she wonders why this good person died while her alcoholic, abusive grandfather is still alive?
PRACTICE PRESENCE When faced with such a question, what you do is more important than anything you could say. Your friend is hurting, and is probably angry at the perceived injustice of her sister’s death. She needs a safe place in which to be “heard.” Consider the experience of those who have served as extraordinary ministers of holy Communion at a hospital. Many times, one can be at a complete loss for words – and these often turn out to be the best visits. Because one is present without speaking, the other person has room to share his or her story. And the 12
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stories are simply amazing – stories of life, of loss and of love. At such times, we must attend to our sister and brother. In other words, we must be active as a listener and therefore be willing to be quiet; we must clear the clutter of thoughts, noise and lists of responses and ready-made answers from our minds. If you are moved to speak, try asking your friend about her sister. Give your friend an opportunity to reflect on the beauty that was the life of her sister and the love they shared for each other. This is not to say that you should in any way minimize her grief or anger, but such sharing can lead one to feel gratitude for having had such a person in his or her life. This feeling of gratitude can be an important step toward healing. Of course, you could also offer to pray with her for her sister, her family and, yes, her grandfather.
THE MYSTERY OF GOD’S RESPONSE Ultimately, your response should reflect the response of God to death and human suffering. This response is found in Jesus Christ on the cross. In other words, God responded to death and human suffering not by taking it away, but by entering fully into it and suffering with us (which is the true meaning of compassion). In Christ, we learn the key is not in escaping from hurts or living some illusory existence free from
GETTY IMAGES
A FRIEND WONDERS WHY HER YOUNG SISTER JUST DIED WHILE HER ABUSIVE GRANDFATHER IS STILL ALIVE?
S. OLSON
CHRIST COMFORTS THOSE WHO MOURN This response to suffering is the truth that makes us free. It is a response that seems both supernatural and absurd to the world. This is so especially because nothing changed externally as a result of Jesus’ incredible response to the many wounds he received. He did die and was buried. His followers did mourn his loss. Life did go on as normal for the greater part of his following – that is until Easter Sunday. When we see images of the risen Christ, we see a glorified body, but not an unwounded body. The marks from the physical wounds remain. However, these wounds now testify to what God has done for us in Christ Jesus. The wounds have been transformed from being a fruit of hatred, anger or indifference against one’s neighbor into being a witness of the depth of God’s love for each one of us. The wounds that once caused an excruciating and humiliating death are now the badges of the final victory over sin and death. It is true that God does not guarantee us a life free from pain and wounding. However, God does guarantee that while death is an ending, it is not the end. It is precisely in your being present, suffering with, bearing the anger and hurt of your friend without judgment or condemnation, and showing your love for her that you can create an opportunity for your friend to encounter the person of Jesus Christ, who alone comforts those who mourn.
FOR FURTHER REFLECTION Consider prayerfully reading the following Gospel passages: You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust. (Mt 5:43-45) When Mary came to where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who had come with her weeping, he became perturbed and deeply troubled, and said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Sir, come and see.” And Jesus wept. (Jn 11:32-35)
REFLECTION QUESTIONS: 1. How might these two passages speak to the friend’s question? 2. What do they have to teach us about God’s response to good and bad, death and human suffering? What do they have to teach us about our response to these things?
CHECK OUT FR. JOE’S COLUMN: “WHY DO BAD THINGS HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE?” ON FAITHPUB.COM.
EVANGELIZATION QUIZ Which saint said the following? God is with us – and if sufferings abound in us, his consolations also greatly abound, and far exceed all utterance … A. St. Nicholas B. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
C. St. Bridget of Sweden D. St. Paul Answer: (B) St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
suffering. Even the Son of God, the second person of the Trinity, was not spared the hurts of living in a fallen world, though never was there one who was more innocent DOUG CULP and good. In fact, he experienced is the CAO and wounding on every level. He secretary for was rejected by his people and pastoral life for abandoned by his friends. Jesus the Diocese of experienced the perceived failure Lexington, Ky. of his mission and endured He holds an taunting, torture and crucifixion MA in theology at the hands of both the civil and from Catholic religious authorities. Theological And yet he did not respond to Union in Chicago. any of these assaults on his being by cursing God for his misfortune. He did not curse those who inflicted the wounds. Instead, Jesus trusted God the Father completely, saying, “Into your hands, I commend my spirit.” Equally important, he looked down from the cross at his persecutors and prayed for them so that mercy and forgiveness might be granted unto them.
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WITNESS TO HOPE
TOM GENNARA
PILOT WAVE PARISHES BEGIN TO USE CAMPAIGN FUNDS Interview with Father Joe Krupp, pastor of St. Mary on the Lake parish in Manitou Beach
The ridiculously generous response of God’s People in Manitou Beach gave us the ability to do things we wouldn’t have dreamed possible.”
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WHY DO YOU THINK THE WITNESS TO HOPE CAMPAIGN HAS BEEN SO SUCCESSFUL IN YOUR PARISH? Honestly? Because of the people of St. Mary on the Lake. Their prayerful spirits, generous hearts and “can do” attitude. We were able to put aside fears and push forward. Beyond that, the way the lay leadership in our parish rose up was astounding. Nancy Nichols led our campaign: organizing the information, offering wisdom, gathering bids for the work ... all sorts of things. I don’t know how many hours she put in, but it was unreal. She is one of many people who took up the campaign and put their whole heart and soul behind it. I’m a blessed priest to work with such amazing people. WHAT PROJECTS HAVE YOU UNDERTAKEN THAT WOULD NOT OTHERWISE HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE? It’d be easier to tell you what projects we didn’t undertake … the ridiculously generous response of God’s People in Manitou Beach gave us the ability to do things we wouldn’t have dreamed possible. We had a serious problem with our front entrance and windows … because of the campaign, we have a whole new entrance and beautiful windows
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that open our eyes to the radical beauty of God’s creation right outside our church. We added a generator and air conditioning, which is very helpful in the case of a fat pastor. We removed asbestos and put new flooring in the hallways and offices. I could go on and on, but it’s amazing how many problems we have solved and will solve because of this campaign. Did I mention the air conditioning? WHAT FUTURE PROJECTS WILL BE MADE POSSIBLE BY THE WTH CAMPAIGN? As of the writing of this article, we’re starting on our new parking lot and sidewalk around the church in a couple weeks. We are going to address our roof and the rain gutters to end the leaking into the building. We’re also going after our lights in the parking lot and loads of other things. ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SHARE? Our collections have gone up since we started the campaign: that’s how beautiful and selfless the people of St. Mary on the Lake are. That’s how concerned they are about supporting our diocese and our local parish. That’s how blessed I am to be their priest.
Pilot Wave Success To Strengthen Our Parish and Our Diocese Sixteen (16) parishes conducted their Witness to Hope Campaigns from July to December 2016. The success of this Pilot Wave has been truly remarkable; here are some of the key highlights: KEY STATISTICS:
SOME PARISH HIGHLIGHTS
The 16 Pilot Parishes have raised
$21,087,464 . This figure is of the Final Wave goal. 107%
EARLY 5,000 (4,965) PARISHIONERS N HAVE MADE A GIFT WITH AN AVERAGE GIFT OF $4,247.
This is a tremendous 38 PERCENT rate of participation. THE PILOT PARISHES RAISED OF THEIR BASE GOALS
185%
(equal to the 2015 offertory at each parish.) Parishioners have made prayerful “best sacrifices” from $5 TO $500,000!
NEARLY $1.4 MILLION has already been returned to the overgoal parishes with their first parish share installments. HOLY FAMILY PARISH, GRAND BLANC
$4.2 MILLION in a Combined Campaign. The parish will use its funds to complete the construction of a new gathering space and other parish renovations.
RAISED MORE THAN
• Holy Rosary, Flint, raised more than $600,000 in a Combined Campaign. The parish will use its parish share to retire its existing debt. • SS. Cornelius & Cyprian, Leslie, raised nearly $200,000 with 54 percent of parishioners contributing. The parish will use its funds to purchase new equipment and make some necessary parish repairs. • St. Mary Magdalen, Brighton, raised more than $2.1 million or 160 percent of its base goal with 50 pecent participation. • Three parishes continue to raise funds and will reach their final goals shortly, this means the gift total and gift amount will continue to rise throughout the year! 15
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CARL EMBRACES BOTH
F A I T H S C I E N C E B
efore 1665, people viewed sunlight as pure white. That year, Cambridge student Isaac Newton experimented with prisms to reveal there was more to sunlight than we had seen.
In fact, by proving that all the colors of the rainbow reside in every ray of clear sunlight, Newton opened pathways to better understanding our world and universe. He literally took our
EACH DAY ‘WHO CAN SEE A CONFLICT IN THAT?’
thinking from black-and-white to technicolor.
MSU Materials Science and Engineering Professor Carl Boehlert understands that science can be used to reveal the natural order of our world. Deacon Carl Boehlert also appreciates that faith can help to make sense of our worldly experiences. He uses both science and faith in his work to serve others. “I’m a deacon and an engineering professor, so every now and then someone will ask me how I do both. They seem to see a conflict between the two identities, but I do not. “It’s not a regular thing that religion comes up at work. I sometimes talk to Christian people here in the College of Engineering and sometimes we share a lot of the same thoughts. But I also discuss issues with other colleagues whose religious beliefs I don’t know. Our conversations are every bit as good and respectful – just different. “I know scientists sometimes have a reputation of being atheists or nonbelievers. But in my experience, I don’t think science is in opposition to faith. Some of my colleagues are active members of my home parish, St. Martha’s [in Okemos], and other Catholic parishes in the diocese. Several others practice different religions. “I recently attended a national materials science and engineering conference in San Diego at the start of Lent. I began with morning Mass on Ash Wednesday and went through the day with an ash cross on my forehead. Before I gave my first of two presentations that day, one of my colleagues gently pulled me aside to let me know kindly that I had something on my forehead,” Carl laughs.
BY NANCY ROSEBUSH SCHERTZING PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM LUNING
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“WHEN WE SPEND TIME IN PRAYER, WE CAN STRENGTHEN OUR CONNECTION AND ABILITY TO SEE WHAT GOD WANTS US TO DO. I FEEL BLESSED THAT I CAN TRY TO HELP PEOPLE THROUGH BOTH SCIENCE AND THROUGH RELIGION AND FAITH.”
“I
was the only person I saw with ashes all day, but never got a negative reaction from any of the 4,000-plus conference registrants there. At the end of the day, one man even stopped me and asked if I knew where he
could find a Catholic Church. “As an engineer, I am service-oriented. That’s what engineers do – we solve problems. It makes us feel good when we see our work brighten others’ lives. Especially when we’re teaching or making discoveries that can light the way for future generations. “Many of my colleagues and I share our time generously with others because it makes us happy, and it hopefully serves others well. As people see you living your beliefs, acts of kindness can inspire others to explore and follow Jesus’ teachings. Jesus was the greatest moral teacher of all time, and I also believe Jesus was the Son of God. 18
I said ‘Sure!’ and gave him directions.
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“For some scientists, like anyone, their faith may be dormant for a while. But I think when pain comes into life, we all want to believe there is a higher power who can help us or our loved ones face that pain. “At the other end of the spectrum, some people’s faith falters when tragedy hits. They ask: ‘If there was a God, why would God let this happen?’ As a deacon, I face this at times, and my honest answer is, ‘I don’t know.’ It’s sometimes not very comforting, but I’m not going to lie. People are intelligent. They form their own opinions and can tell if you’re trying to dictate or manipulate them into believing a certain way.
“As a scientist, I look for truth, and I try to substantiate my claims with evidence backing them up. When people are in doubt or grief, they need to go through their experience, not simply accept something I make up to try to comfort them. Sometimes all I can say is, ‘My logic isn’t the same as God’s.’ “We often assign or try to find reasons for why things happen to work out the way they do. My role is not to provide explanations, but to support others as they search for and discover answers for themselves. This has happened in my own life. “In high school, I felt God may have been calling me to the priesthood, but I didn’t seem to listen. I went away to college and, because I was interested in math and science, I pursued an engineering degree instead. “Many years after earning my Ph.D., marrying my wife, Paula, and becoming a parent, I was listening to a homily in which our pastor said the parish could use deacons to help with various duties, but we had none. It was like a spotlight was focused on that calling I had kept in the back of my mind since high school. “I went home and told my wife I thought I was being called. She said something like, ‘That’s nice,’ and kept preparing dinner. I then went to the computer and googled ‘Diocese of Lansing Diaconate Program.’ One of the first entries was a link for a man named David Rosenberg, and I found a phone number to reach him. “I held onto his number for a day, then summoned the courage to cold call him. I was literally shaking as I dialed, asking myself why I was doing this! I wondered if he would just hang up on me, but he was so gracious. He immediately put me at ease. He told me he loved the diaconate program so much he was planning to enter the seminary to become a priest. Then he encouraged me to contact Sister Marilyn Barnett to get more information about the diocese diaconate program. That was the start of a seven-year process of classes and formation. “I think God speaks to us in many ways, including through others and through our world. When we spend time in prayer, we can strengthen our connection and ability to see what God wants us to do. I feel blessed that I can try to help people
through both science and through religion and faith. “I’ve heard theology described as ‘faith seeking understanding.’ I get to apply both scientific and religious principles to understanding our world and to helping people walk in the spectrum of God’s colorful light. Who can see a conflict in that?”
Pontifical Academy of Sciences DID YOU KNOW? • There is a science academy insde the Vatican. The Pontifical Academy of Sciences is an independent entity within the Holy See. (www.pas.va) • The pontifical academicians are 80 women and men from many countries who have made outstanding contributions in their fields of scientific endeavor. • These scientists participate in study groups and meetings organized by the academy to examine specific issues. 19
YOUR STORIES MY STORY
WITH HELP FROM CATHOLIC CHARITIES,
Travis reconnects with community after prison BY NANCY ROSEBUSH SCHERTZING PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM GENNARA
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“Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” – Heb 13:2
“Y
OU KNOW, I LOOK OVER MY LIFE – growing up, going to prison, being on the streets. I believe God puts certain things in your path to have you in a time and place to help others.” Travis Epps reflects on the journey that led him to this moment in the basement of St. Michael Parish in Flint. As a volunteer and former client of Catholic Charities of Shiawassee and Genesee Counties, Travis sees God’s guiding hand from both perspectives. “It’s like I tell people, if you’ve never been in a certain predicament, you learn to adjust. I learned that the hard way when my friend’s cousin offered me a ride and broke into someone’s home while I was in his car. He told me he was stopping at a friend’s house for a minute and came out with a TV and computer. Before I knew it, the police were swarming the car. “No prior criminal record, but I found myself in a courtroom with a public defender who really didn’t do anything. I got six years in the California prison system as an accessory, starting out at Level 3 and working my way to Level 1. “I went in with seven guys, and from the beginning they wanted me to lead them. I’m basically someone who does what’s right, or if I see something that needs to be done, I do it. So the prison guards used to come to me to help with inmate conflicts. We inmates had our own system that’s a lot like mediation. I helped avoid some conflicts and kept others from spreading. “Graduating through the different levels, I worked on a community crew – planting trees and maintaining parks. I worked in the prison machine shop and was part of the kitchen staff. “I left prison with work experience, but no home, no car, no belongings – and no one who wanted to hire me with a felony record. I tried to go to Minnesota, where my mother and stepfather could take me in, but the system assigned my parole to Sacramento. I found a bed in a shelter until they transferred my parole to Minnesota. I lived with my mother and stepfather a while, then moved to Iowa to marry a young lady in the service. I stayed with her parents while she was deployed to the Middle East. But our marriage ended and my mother became
very ill, so I followed her to Flint to take care of her. “My mother can’t stay in one place very long. Once she got her health back, she moved on without either my stepfather or me. I lived with him for a while until he left to live with a new lady. That left me homeless again, just like when I got out of prison. Being homeless is a humbling experience. It takes you down to the bare necessities. Like I said, though, you learn to adjust and to appreciate what you do have. “One day I followed some of the other homeless guys to Catholic Charities Warming Center. The Warming Center provided a way to get out of the cold and get my basic meals. They helped me out with clothing and personal items in the Faith in Flint backpack, which I still like to wear. You have to leave the Warming Center three times a day so they can clean your space up, but they always welcome you back. The staff – Mary, Vicky, Rae, Dan – they’re like family. They don’t look down on you. They never made me feel that I was less than anyone else. “When I found a place of my own, Mary gave me a letter verifying I had stayed at the Warming Center for a period of time. This helped me qualify for my first apartment by the Flint Public Library. It was close enough for me to participate in Catholic Charities Re-Connections Program, which helps parolees return to life outside prison. I earned a certificate in building maintenance, got help writing a resume and picked out some nice clothes to wear for interviews. Re-Connections really gets involved in helping former inmates prepare for work and life on their own after serving their time. I’m hoping for a job in a factory or warehouse because that’s something I used to do. I also love to cook, so I could be a cook somewhere too. “Wherever I work, I’ve learned the value of the saying, ‘To thyself be true.’ If you’re not true to yourself or believe in yourself, how can you expect others to be true to or believe in you? I also know it’s important to learn from your mistakes and move on, because no matter what I’ve done in my past, it is my past. “After a while, I moved out to my new place in Burton, but I missed the Catholic Charities folks so much, I came back to volunteer. Now I help out every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s such a great feeling to see people’s smiles when they get things they need and when they get items they don’t need, knowing they can help someone else. “My favorite passage from the Bible says something like, ‘Be careful how you treat people because you might be entertaining angels.’ I try to live that, and I try not to be too prideful to let others help me. Here at Catholic Charities, we really can be angels to each other.”
CATHOLIC CHARITIES HELP PAROLEES RECONNECT
Catholic Charities agencies in the Diocese of Lansing help parolees reconnect with their communities. Their programs offer education, mentoring, counseling and life skills. • Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee & Hillsdale Counties www.catholiccharitiesjlhc.org • Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County www.csswashtenaw.org • Catholic Charities of Shiawassee and Genesee Counties www.catholiccharitiesflint.org • Livingston County Catholic Charities www.livingstoncatholiccharities.org • St. Vincent Catholic Charities www.stvcc.org 21
DEACON ORDINATION 2017
DEACON ORDINATION 2017 THE DIOCESE OF LANSING was blessed with nine new permanent deacons and one transitional deacon on May 13. Bishop Earl Boyea ordained the new deacons at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in East Lansing. Meet the new deacons on these pages. PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM GENNARA
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DEACON THOMAS CHARLES AREHART Deacon Tom and his wife, Mary (Cathy), have been blessed with two children and four grandchildren. Deacon Tom continues to operate his consulting services firm, Total Capital Asset Management. Deacon Tom and Cathy are parishioners of St. Catherine Laboure Church in Concord, where he is assigned to actively participate in liturgical services and parish ministry.
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DEACON LARRY LOUIS BLONDIN
DEACON JOHN THOMAS FINN
Deacon Larry and his wife, Linda, are blessed with four children and 14 grandchildren. They are members of Holy Family Parish in Grand Blanc. Deacon Larry is a retired carpenter/ home builder of 30 years who now happily serves as evangelization and discipleship coordinator at Holy Family. He will assist with parish ministry after his ordination.
Deacon John and his wife, Ruthanne, both previously widowed, have four adult children and seven grandchildren. Deacon John is the owner of Logistics Control, a freight management consulting firm. Deacon John and Ruthanne are members of St. Martha Parish, Okemos, where he serves as a lector, extraordinary minister of holy Communion and jail minister.
O N T H E PAT H TO P R I E ST LY O R D I N AT I O N
TRANSITIONAL DEACON
DEACON CHARLES MICHAEL GILBERT (C. MICHAEL GILBERT) Deacon Michael and his wife, Karen have two adult children and three grandchildren. They have been members of St. Patrick Parish in Brighton for 11 years. Deacon Mike is selfemployed as an LPC/owner of New Hope Counseling. He will be involved with Communion ministry to the homebound and Brighton Recovery Center, and provide volunteer counseling services for men and couples at the Pregnancy Helpline in Brighton.
DEACON PATRICK JOSEPH GORCZYCA
DEACON EUGENE JAMES LEGER
Deacon Patrick and his wife, Maria have three children and five grandchildren. Deacon Pat has practiced veterinary medicine in Jackson for 45 years. He and Maria have been members of Queen of the Miraculous Medal Parish for 25 years. Deacon Patrick has been involved in many ministries in the parish over that time. He now assists Deacon Jack with baptism class, is involved with RCIA, participates in prison ministry and does Communion service.
Deacon Gene and his wife, Suzanne are blessed with five children on earth, two in heaven, two sons-in-law and two grandsons. Deacon Gene is the sales manager for Ave Maria Radio in Ann Arbor, while Sue is a dental hygienist. Both are graduates of the University of Michigan. Deacon Gene and Sue were married at St. Thomas the Apostle, were founding members of Christ the King and are current members of St. Francis of Assisi Parish.
JOHN MACHIORLATTI
DEACON DANIEL MEDICH JR.
DEACON BRYAN ANTHONY ROOT
DEACON WAYNE RUDOLPH SLOMIANY
Deacon Daniel and his wife, Kathy, have two children, and are parishioners at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Fenton. As the director of formation at the parish, Deacon Dan will oversee all formation development, including children's religious education, youth ministry, RCIA, adult formation and evangelization efforts. He loves spending time with his family and friends as they help in various ministries and activities together.
Deacon Bryan and his wife, Becky, reside in Montrose, where they attend Good Shepherd Church, the most northern parish in the Diocese of Lansing. They have four children and two grandchildren. Deacon Bryan has been employed by Meijer for 33 years, and has taught religious education for just as long. At Good Shepherd Parish, he will train liturgy teams, help with RCIA, baptism and marriage preparation and visit the homebound.
Deacon Wayne and his wife, Carol, have five children and three grandchildren. They are members of Christ the King Parish in Ann Arbor. They are Knight and Dame Commanders in the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem. Deacon Wayne has worked at Compuware Corporation for more than 30 years. He is the education chair, and is active in liturgical service and the parish’s welcoming functions.
Deacon John was born in Grand Rapids, son of Carol Machiorlatti (deceased) and Kenneth Machiorlatti, one of seven children. He attended St. Paul’s Parish in Grand Rapids, and spent most of his adult years within the Lansing diocese attending St. Mary Student Parish in Ann Arbor and St. John Student Center /St. Thomas Aquinas in East Lansing. Deacon John will be ordained to the priesthood on June 18, 2018 at St. Mary Cathedral. 23
CREDITS
PARENTING JOURNEY: I can’t talk to my Mom because she’s distracted by her phone IN THE KNOW WITH FATHER JOE: Why is it still Easter? LAST WORD: Deacons have a call of their own
Carl embraces both
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and bringing it to the world.”
GETTY IMAGES
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During a two-day trip to Cairo, Pope Francis preached a message of tolerance at a Mass with Egypt’s small Catholic community, and urged an end to “every form of violence, vengeance and hatred carried out in the name of religion or in the name of God” in a speech at a peace conference at AlAzhar University, a Sunni Islam university. On the flight back to Rome, the Holy Father spoke to reporters about a number of topics, including the need for mediation in the North Korea crisis and the plight of refugees throughout the world. When asked if his visit implied support for the Egyptian government, he replied: “No, No … one must interpret (it) literally as values in themselves … I said that defending peace, defending the harmony of peoples, defending the equality of citizens, whichever the religion they profess may be, are values. I spoke of values!”
@Pontifix 04/23/2017
TED TALK
The Holy Father recorded a TED Talk for the TED2017 conference in Vancouver in April. Expanding on the conference theme of, “The Future You,” Pope Francis focused on three themes: 1) “none of us is an island”; 2) “a single individual is enough for hope to exist”; and 3) the need for a “revolution of tenderness.”
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FAITHFEST
DON QUILLAN DON QUILLAN
Volunteer Mika looking forward to experiencing “the same blessings and fellowship, but even stronger” at this year’s FaithFest
A
S A VOLUNTEER at last summer’s inaugural FaithFest at the St. Francis Retreat Center in DeWitt, Mika Besinger learned about teamwork, helping others, and – at a time when she was struggling – the messages of God.
able to enjoy and participate in FaithFest’s various activities, it can be a valuable experience for anyone. “Christian music really speaks to me, especially in this setting,” Mika says. “When the bands talk between songs about why they do this or how their songs came to be written, I feel connected to their stories and their faith journeys, and that encourages me to keep growing spiritually.” “For me, volunteering started off as a way to readjust to life As a volunteer, Mika was able to interact with the musicians, in Michigan after living in Montana for a year,” says Mika. “My who she says were genuine and open – making them the perfect mom thought it was a good idea for me to give something to instrument for God to do his work and inspire others. the community, and I agreed. I wanted to meet people “After the fireworks, I was helping two bands and make some new friends. I had been drifting away tear down the set,” recalls Mika. “They were saying how from God at that point, so it was a good opportunity their collaboration together was from the Holy Spirit – to re-establish that relationship. And it was an amazing they didn’t work on it before hand or practice it. It was SAVE THE experience. great to hear them talking so candidly about a spiritual DATE: Mika’s experience at FaithFest helped her work experience we all were able to witness.” FAITHFEST 2017 through feelings of being isolated. But even with all the positive vibes, it’s important that – SAT., JUNE 24 “I always have had problems feeling like I’m alone AT ST. FRANCIS attendees understand that music isn’t all that FaithFest RETREAT in things. God’s message for me was that everyone is offers. Mika says she will never forget the Vigil Mass. CENTER IN welcomed in and others are going through the same “FaithFest isn’t just a concert – it’s about experiencing DEWITT. GATES trials in their faith as I am.” God in different ways and talking with other people OPEN AT 10 A.M. Now, with reinvigorated faith, Mika is looking and learning from their experiences,” says Mika. “I’ve TO PURCHASE forward to FaithFest 2017, to be held on Saturday, June TICKETS, VISIT never been to a Mass that big before, and having the FAITHFEST.COM. 24. It will be a day filled with faith sharing, live music, Bishop present was a huge blessing. And it was a food, recreational activities, fireworks, and, of course, different experience than everyday Mass. I felt almost opportunities for prayer and Mass with Bishop Boyea. content. You could look across the whole crowd and see everyone “It’s almost like a giant family reunion,” says Mika. “That might smiling and singing. It was powerful.” be because I saw so many families there. I think families can After recounting her experience last year, Mika says she is eagerly enjoy as well as any age group – the message is the same for all of awaiting this year’s FaithFest. “I want to have the same experience, us. Everyone can enjoy being outdoors and meeting new people.” but different,” she says. “I want to experience the same blessings and Mika believes that because Christians from all walks of life are fellowship, but even stronger. I’m confident that will happen.” BY EMILY LENHARD
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YOUR COMMUNITY THINGS TO DO June 3, 7 p.m., St. Agnes Parish, Fowlerville is hosting a Trivia Night fundraiser with cash prizes awarded to the teams based on the number of players. Cost is $10 per player with a maximum of eight players per team. Concession area will have pizza, soft drinks and adult beverages. For information or to reserve a table, contact Liz Heslip at 517.223.8684. St. Joseph Shrine, Brooklyn will have a rummage sale on June 7, 9 a.m-7 p.m., $5/bag; June 8, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., $3/bag and some items half-price; and June 9, 9 a.m.-noon, $1/ bag; and noon-1 p.m., all is free. For information, contact the parish office at 517.467.2183. June 10-11, Catholic Engaged Encounter Retreat will be held in DeWitt. It is specifically designed to give a couple an opportunity to talk honestly and intensively about their future together. Cost is $235 per couple. Registration is available at lansing.cee.org. Payment must be received by the registration deadline of May 27. For information, contact Wayne and Sue Fransted at 517.740.4132 or info@lansingcee.org. June 15, July 20 and Aug. 17, 6-8 p.m., St. Thomas Aquinas, 955 Alton Rd., East Lansing, invites singles, couples or families to come and enjoy food, games and fun activities. For information, contact Annie Kitching at 517.351.5460, ext. 325 or akitching@elcatholics.org. June 15-16, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. and June 17, 8 a.m.-11 a.m., St. Francis of Assisi Parish will have its annual rummage sale in the school gymnasium, 2250 E. Stadium, Ann Arbor. For more information, call 734.769.2550 or visit stfrancisa2.com. July 5, 12, 19 and 26, Wednesdays, 7 p.m., St Joseph, Howell will hold Basic Catholic Teaching – Marriage Preparation. To register, call the parish office at 517.546.7200.
CATHOLIC CHARITIES CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF JACKSON, LENAWEE AND HILLSDALE COUNTIES, CATHOLICCHARITIESJLHC.ORG, JACKSON: 517.782.2551, ADRIAN/HILLSDALE: 517.263.2191 • Personal Needs and Linen Closet needs: personal hygiene items, cleaning products and linens, such as towels/sheets, for families in need. For a complete list of items, visit our website. Also, monetary donations are always appreciated. For information about donating or volunteering, call or visit our website. CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF SHIAWASSEE AND GENESEE COUNTIES, CCSGC.ORG, FLINT: 810.232.9950 or SHIAWASSEE: 989.723.8239 • June 26-Aug. 11, Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m., NESK Kids’ Summer Camp will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe, 2316 Coldwater Rd., Flint, for children ages 5-12. Limited space available. Children do not need to be present to be registered. Registration is June 21-23 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. For information, contact 810.785.6911 or jmanse@ccsgc.org. • Garage Sale Leftovers: Donate your rummage sale remains to Catholic Charities’ Community Closet to help provide free clothing, bedding, towels, furniture and appliances, as well as household goods and toiletries, to those in need. Dropoff is Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., at its temporary location: St. Michael Church, 609 E. Fifth Ave., Flint. To schedule a pickup of large items, call 810.785.6911. CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES OF WASHTENAW COUNTY, CSSWASHTENAW.ORG or 734.971.9781 • Are you are interested in becoming a foster or adoptive parent? Foster Care and Waiting Child Adoption information meetings are held monthly on Tuesdays or Thursdays in Ann Arbor or Jackson. Newborn Adoption information meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month 5-7 p.m. To register for a specific class or learn more about programs and classes, visit our website. LIVINGSTON COUNTY CATHOLIC CHARITIES, LIVINGSTONCATHOLICCHARITIES.ORG or 517.545.5944 • June 24, 8 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. shotgun start, Livingston County Community Alliance’s charity golf outing will raise funds to support substance abuse prevention awareness at Whispering Pines Golf Club, 2500 Whispering Pines Dr., Pinckney. Cost: $100 per golfer. A discount rate is available for people who will only attend silent auction and dinner after the scramble. Sponsorships are available. For information, contact Sue Grohman at SGolf513@yahoo.com. ST. VINCENT CATHOLIC CHARITIES, 517.886.1150 AND 517.323.4734 or STVCC.ORG • Two opportunities for two-day WE C.A.R.E. marriage preparation classes: Aug. 12 and 19, 9 a.m.-noon at Resurrection Catholic Church’s rectory basement on the corner of Michigan Ave. and Ramsey in Lansing; and Sept. 16 and 23, 9 a.m.-noon at Cristo Rey Church’s Guadalupe Hall, 201 W. Miller Rd. in Lansing. Registration forms available online at stvcc.org. For information, contact STVCC at 517.323.4734 ext. 1713 or jonesj2@stvcc.org.
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July 7-9, Ann Arbor Rachel’s Vineyard will have a retreat beginning Friday at 2 p.m. and ending Sunday at 3:30 p.m. For information or to register, contact
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FAITH Magazine | JUNE 2017 | WWW.FAITHPUB.COM
Beth Bauer at 734.879.0427 or Lpbbauer@yahoo.com.
information, call the parish office at 517.546.7200.
July 8, noon-8 p.m., Christ the King, 1832 Seymour Ave., Flint, will have its 28th African-American Festival, including entertainment, children’s game, barbecue and more. A festival Mass will be celebrated July 9 at 9:45 a.m. All are welcome to attend. For information, contact the parish office at 810.233.0402.
July 17, 8:30 a.m., St. Mark, Grand Blanc’s youth group will have a COLOR FUN RUN! All proceeds will be used to support this year’s mission trip. Cost is $20 per person. To register, contact the faith formation office at 810.636.2216 or stmarkdff@hotmail.com. Families, children and adults of all ages are welcome.
July 15, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., St. John, 2009 N. Hacker Rd., Howell, hosts its eighth annual Car Show, including awards, silent auction and live music lunch is available for purchase. General admission is $2 per car and show car entry is $20 per car. For
July 21-22, St. Joseph Melkite Catholic Church, 725 W. Mt. Hope at Rundle in Lansing, will host its 25th annual Mid-East Food Festival: delicious homemade Middle Eastern food and desserts,
outdoor or indoor dining and live entertainment. For information, contact the parish office at 517.575.6264. Aug. 11-13, Lansing-based Rachel's Vineyard Retreat Weekend: For post-abortive women and men in the Diocese of Lansing, this retreat offers spiritual, as well as psychological, healing after abortion. Aug. 13, 9 a.m., Knights of Columbus Council 7545 from St. Mary Parish in Williamston is sponsoring a memorial golf outing in memory of Mike Pitlanish at Wheatfield Valley Golf in Williamston, with proceeds going to charity. Cost is $80 per golfer or $320 per team. For information, contact Bill Pulling at 517.410.4581 or pullingv69@gmail.com. Aug. 15-17, St. Francis Retreat Center, DeWitt will host Summer Scripture Days to help you discover how to “live to inspire” as we attempt to gather the “lost sheep.” Registration is open until Aug. 4. Space is limited. Brochures are available in church vestibule or contact Sheila Rogers at 517.669.8321 or srogers@stfrancis.ws Aug. 17-20, for women ages 18 to 35, the Diocese of Lansing’s Nun Run to the Bronx will visit different religious orders in the Bronx and nearby areas. Space is limited, so register early by contacting Dawn at 517.342.2506 or dhausmann@ dioceseoflansing.org.
RETREAT CENTERS WEBER RETREAT CENTER, ADRIAN, WEBERADRIANDOMINICANS.ORG or 517.266.400 July 17-21, a Private Directed Retreat is an opportunity to reflect and get refreshed; includes daily spiritual direction, a private room and meals. Cost is $350 and a commuter is $250. ST. FRANCIS RETREAT CENTER, DEWITT, STFRANCIS.WS or 517.669.8321 July 14-16, Praying with the Heart of the Church includes Liturgy of the Hours, Mass, meals and private room in Bethany House. Cost: $175 per person and $300 per couple. Registrations are due July 7.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL June 19-23, 9 a.m.-noon, at St. Michael Parish, Grand Ledge in the school gym. For registration information, call Jennifer Nelson at 517.627.8493, ext. 14. June 19-23, 9-11 a.m., St. Paul and St. Joseph, Owosso, in St. Joseph School’s gym, 811 E. Oliver St.: early registration, ages 4 through fifth grade, $10 per child. Registration after May 15 is $15 per child. For information/registration, call the religious education office at 517.723.4765 or visit the website stpaulowosso.org. June 26-29, 5-8 p.m., St. John Church, 2099 N. Hacker Rd., Howell, cost for a ticket is $15 per person or $40 per family, and includes dinner each night. For information, call Kim at 517.546.7200. Registration is online at eventbrite.com/o/st-john-catholic-church-12911748965. June 26-30, at St. Agnes, 855 E. Grand River Ave, Fowlerville. For information/registration, call the parish at 517.223.8684. June 26-30, 9 a.m.-noon at St. Peter Church, Eaton Rapids. For information, contact Tori Davidson, faith formation director, at spceatonrapidsfaithformation@gmail.com. June 26-30, 9:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. at St. Robert Bellarmine, Flushing for children pre-K to sixth grade. For information, visit vbspro.events/p/strobertb. July 31-Aug. 4, 9 a.m.-noon at St. Mary, Chelsea; this year’s theme is “Cave Quest.” For information, contact the parish at 734.475.7561.
ALMOST 600 WERE RECEIVED INTO THE CHURCH AT EASTER
LOCAL NEWS
At Easter Vigil Masses across the diocese this past April, 592 catechumens and candidates were received into the Church. Catechumens are individuals who have never been baptized, and they receive the sacraments of initiation at the vigil: baptism, confirmation and Eucharist. Candidates, those individuals who have been baptized in another Christian faith, make a profession of faith at the vigil, are confirmed and receive the Eucharist.
NEW PRESIDENT OF CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES IN WASHTENAW COUNTY Bishop Earl Boyea has approved the appointment of James C. Gajewski as the president and CEO of Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County (CSSWC), effective June 12, 2017. Jim comes to CSSWC with more than 25 years of experience in the nonprofit and health care sectors, having served as vice president of community services and programs for Catholic Charities of Galveston-Houston for three years. He has expertise in nonprofit and program operations, strategic planning and fund development. Jim and his wife are active members of Christ the King Parish in Ann Arbor.
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NEW PRIEST ASSIGNMENTS
YOUR COMMUNITY LOCAL NEWS
Bishop Boyea announces the following pastoral assignments and transfers, effective June 28, 2017 unless otherwise noted: •R ev. Mr. Joseph Campbell, to parochial vicar of St. Patrick Parish, Brighton after priesthood ordination on June 10, 2017. • Rev. George Daisy, from theological reviewer at FAITH Catholic to the Diocese of Lansing Tribunal; he continues weekend ministry to Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish, Lansing. • Rev. David Fons, from parochial vicar of St. Gerard Parish, Lansing to canon law studies at the Angelicum University, Rome. • Rev. David Hudgins, returning from studies in Rome to become adjunct judicial vicar with residence at St. Mary Cathedral, Lansing. • Rev. Gary Koenigsknecht, from parochial vicar of Holy Family Parish, Grand Blanc to parochial vicar of St. Thomas Aquinas Parish/St. John Church and Student Center, East Lansing. • Rev. Todd Koenigsknecht, from parochial vicar of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Ann Arbor to parochial vicar of St. John the Evangelist Parish, Fenton. • Rev. Daniel Kogut, from chaplain of Father Luke M. Powers Catholic High School, Flint to pastoral administrator of St. Mary Parish, Pinckney. • Rev. Kurian Kollapallil, MSFS, administrator of St. Joseph, Adrian, has been assigned by his religious community to their missions in East Africa, effective July 1, 2017. • Rev. Thomas Murphy, OSFS, pastor of St. Mary of Good Counsel, Adrian, also named pastor of St. Joseph, Adrian, effective July 1, 2017. • Rev. Vincent Richardson, from parochial vicar of St. Patrick Parish, Brighton to parochial vicar of St. Gerard Parish, Lansing. • Rev. James Rolph, from parochial vicar of St. John the Evangelist Parish, Fenton to chaplain of Father Luke M. Powers Catholic High School, Flint and weekend assistance to the Catholic community of Flint. • Rev. Mr. Anthony Smela, to parochial vicar of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Ann Arbor after priesthood ordination on June 10, 2017. • Rev. Mathias Thelen, from the faculty of Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Detroit to pastoral administrator of St. Patrick Parish, Brighton. • Rev. Daniel Westermann, returning from studies in moral theology at the Angelicum University, Rome to parochial vicar of Holy Family Parish, Grand Blanc. 28
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CATHOLIC CHARITIES IN FLINT CELEBRATES EASTER Dozens of volunteers helped prepare the Catholic Charities of Genesee and Shiawassee Counties' Sunday Easter dinner in Flint. "We had the ham donated, the Easter baskets and a lot of the produce – it just makes everything much better, and it's appreciated more when it’s donated," said John Manse, director of community services for Catholic Charities. Volunteers helped to prepare meals for more than 500 people Sunday afternoon, and everyone enjoyed the weather. “The spirit for Easter is much higher, especially, when you have beautiful, sunny weather," said John. Catholic Charities of Genesee and Shiawassee Counties has been assisting the less fortunate in mid-Michigan since 1941. To donate to Catholic Charities, visit www.catholiccharitiesflint.org.
ST. GERARD EIGHTH-GRADER WINS MARYKNOLL MAGAZINE ESSAY CONTENT Ellie Kooney, an eighthgrader at St. Gerard School in Lansing, was one of six middle and high school students who received a cash award for their winning submission in in the Maryknoll Magazine national essay contest. Maryknoll Father Larry McCullough visited St. Gerard to present Ellie with her second place prize of $300 for her essay “Our Earth, The Pope’s Call.” The 2016 essay theme, “Caring for Our Common Home,” referenced Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, which calls on people to respect the world’s limited resources. The contest received more than 7,000 entries.
HEROIC EVANGELIZATION ST. JOHN VIANNEY’S HOSPITAL MINISTRY CARES FOR THE SICK Every Sunday for the last three years, Deacon Anthony Verdun and a team of dedicated parishioners from the parishes of St. John Vianney in Flint, SS. Charles and Helena in Clio and Blessed Sacrament in Burton have brought Communion to the sick and dying patients at McLaren Hospital. Each patient receives a rosary made by Mary Ashley and her team.
While many college students could be found in bars or restaurants on St. Patrick's Day, some from St. John Student Center braved the frosty weather on the streets in East Lansing to evangelize! The students gave handouts of the Breastplate of St. Patrick prayer with the location of St. John Student Center and Mass times, along with free water and pretzels. 29
DEACONS LAST WORD
HAVE A CALL OF THEIR OWN A
FTER PRAYER AND WORSHIP, the first concern of the Apostles was for the poor and marginalized. It is noteworthy that the Apostles ordained deacons in order
to help them in caring for the poor before the first presbyters (priests) were ordained. Such was the deacon’s closeness and attachment to the Apostles. Vatican II restored the diaconate as a particular and permanent rank of the hierarchy. Deacons have their own divine calling. They are not “junior priests” or glorified laymen. They are very special in the life of the Church, and have a call of their own.
T. Gennara
First, we need to know something about of the tribunal. All these duties, it might be deacons in history. We initially encounter noted, also can be held by a layperson. deacons in the famous passage in Acts 6:2, Besides his administrative and judicial roles, where St. Peter declared it is not proper the restored deacon is given certain liturgical for the Apostles to give up preaching so roles: he may baptize solemnly, witness that they can wait on tables. Accordingly, marriages, administer sacramentals, conduct they ordained seven deacons, including funerals, read sacred Scripture, preach and the proto-martyr instruct the faithful. Stephen, to serve the He is portrayed as Christian community. the leader of the By the end of the congregation in ancient world, the prayers. His functions Deacons have their own divine deacon was the include roles at Mass calling. They are not ‘junior bishop's principal and in conferring priests’ or glorified laymen. assistant, serving as sacraments, as well as They are very special in the life his "eyes and ears," in the Liturgy of the and taking care of Hours, services of the of the Church, and have a call Church property as word, sacramentals of their own.” well as administrative and public devotions. matters. The diaconate is Deacons quickly no longer simply the became VIPs. One measure of the last step to ordination of priests, as was the importance of the deacon in the early case when I was ordained a deacon back in Church is the number of deacons elected 1966 and still in the seminary one year prior pope in the early Middle Ages. Of the 37 men to ordination into the priesthood. Today, elected pope between 432 and 684 A.D., the fullness of sacred orders is restored only three are known to have been ordained as collaborative ministry in the life of the to priest before their election to the chair of Church, and is made more fully manifest in Peter. A number of cardinals in the history of the restored permanent diaconate. the Church were never ordained priests or bishops. They remained deacons. Of the manifold functions exercised by the deacon during the first Christian millennium, FATHER CHARLES IRVIN today's deacon is permitted to hold only the is the founding editor of FAITH offices of chancellor, finance officer and judge Magazine and is retired.
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