July/August 2017

YEARS

+

ORDINATION 2017

AS A PRIEST FAITH’s founding editor FATHER CHARLES IRVIN

The Diocese of Lansing was blessed with two new priests THEOLOGY 101

What do you say when … family members claim religion doesn’t matter as long as you’re a good person?

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!

For more information, visit lansinglugnuts.com. To be added to the email list, contact: Eric Pionk, Lansing group sales representative, 517.485.4500, ext. 256.

JOIN US FOR GOLF W E D N E S D AY, A U G U S T, 3 0 , 2 0 1 7

Hawk Hollow and Eagle Eye 15500 Chandler Rd, Bath Twp, MI 48808 10:00 a.m. shotgun start on both courses

Honorary Hosts Knights of Columbus Councils of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing

For registration and sponsorships, call 517.342.2535 or email lweber@dioceseoflansing.org.

FROM THE BISHOP

BISHOP EARL BOYEA

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

Carlson Productions

GO FORTH WHERE THE SPIRIT IS LEADING

WHAT A WAY TO SPEND THE JULY 4TH WEEKEND! The bishops of the United States decided to have a gathering in Orlando, Florida (wouldn’t January have been better?) entitled, “Convocation of Catholic Leaders: The Joy of the Gospel in America.” This all flows from Pope Francis’ letter, Evangelii gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel). The aim is to set the entire Church in the United States on the trajectory of forming our Catholics to be missionary disciples, especially disciples who are filled with joy because of Christ.

There will be a group of folks accompanying me from the Diocese of Lansing, mostly younger folks who will be expected to carry on the leadership of this activity in years to come. We are very blessed in our diocese as the Holy Spirit has been working so powerfully in our midst these past six years through our assemblies as we have sought to build up the Household of Faith and then as we have reached out to the Lost Sheep.

This gathering in Orlando should re-energize us as we prepare for our Third Assembly on September 22, 2018 at the Breslin Center (put it on We are very blessed in our your calendars!).

In addition, a number of other folks who live in our diocese and who are diocese as the Holy Spirit has involved in their own evangelizing efforts will be in attendance, making been working so powerfully in our delegation a rather significant presence. our midst these past six years We will spend time in Orlando looking at the landscape in the United through our assemblies as we States, that is, to whom are we being sent as disciples of the Lord.

Secondly, we will reflect upon what it actually means to be a missionary have sought to build up the disciple of the Lord, especially one filled with joy, a joy which is attractive Household of Faith and then to a world seeking real meaning and value. Thirdly, there will be the as we have reached out to the challenge for all of us to escape our comfort zones and go where the Lost Sheep.”

Spirit is leading us and in ways that the Spirit is leading us. And finally, there will be occasions to speak about practical ways to accomplish the mission before us.

Most of the dioceses in the United States have committed to being present for this event.

It is a great blessing to have so many on the same page working to fulfill the command of Jesus to Go and Announce the Gospel of the Lord.

The prayer, which I invite you to pray, for this event is as follows: O Holy Spirit, you who first enkindled in our hearts the joy of the Gospel, renew that same joy in those who are preparing for the Convocation of Catholic Leaders.

Enflame the hearts of our bishops and their diocesan delegations; leaders of national organizations and movements; clergy, religious and laity; all who make this event possible; and Catholic leaders across the United States.

Move us to welcome the word of life in the depths of our hearts and respond to the call of missionary discipleship.

O Holy Spirit, transform our hearts and enable us to enter into the perfect communion that you share with the Father and the Son. Amen.

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FAITH HELPS

FROM THE EDITOR

THANK YOU, FATHER CHARLIE O

T.Gennera

N SUNDAY, JUNE 4, the Solemnity of Pentecost, people from around our diocese gathered at the Catholic Community of St. Jude in DeWitt to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the ordination of Fathers Charlie Irvin and Jim Swiat. Mass was followed by lunch. At lunch, several of us offered tributes to Father Charlie and Father Jim. I was asked to speak about Father Charlie, and I thought it would be nice to share those words:

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.

What matters to Father Charlie is the adventure of helping others discover, understand and put to use the gifts God has given them.”

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Today, we join with Father Jim Swiat and Father Charlie Irvin as they celebrate 50 years of priestly ministry, and we remember the late Father Larry Delaney who was ordained with them. In particular, it is my privilege to offer these words of both appreciation and thankfulness for the priestly ministry of Father Charlie Irvin, who has been my pastor, my mentor, my source of priestly inspiration and my friend for just about 30 years.

In September of 1987, responding to the not-so-gentle prompting of God, I found myself returning to the active practice of my Catholic faith after five years of being away. I walked into St. Francis of Assisi parish in Ann Arbor one Sunday morning late in the month, and had my first experience of Mass with Father Charlie, who was the newly arrived pastor.

I remember being spellbound by an engaging and thought-provoking homily and the Eucharist beautifully celebrated by this tall, somewhat geeky priest, who, I would soon learn, was a late priestly vocation, an attorney, an MBA, and a guy who was not afraid to share openly about his faith and how that faith had helped him through his own personal times of struggle and joy. I remember going home that day and not being able to wait to come back to Mass the following Sunday.

Soon, I had the chance to meet Father Charlie as I became more involved in the day-to-day life of the parish. I met the folks he had hired to serve as parish staff, and I came to understand what gave him joy as a priest and as a pastor. Now, he will tell you that a pastor’s job description comprises the following: lights, laundry, loot, locks, litter and liturgy. When he’s being serious, Father Charlie will tell you that his work as a pastor has always been to find people with the right gifts from God (even if they don’t think they have them), wind them up, let them go and get out of their way. For a guy with a lot of gifts from God, Father Charlie’s greatest gift is his ability to shy away from the spotlight. He focuses on the work at hand, and the best people who can collaborate in order to get the job done.

What matters to Father Charlie is the adventure of helping others discover, understand and put to use the gifts God has given them. What matters most to Father Charlie in his life as priest and pastor is the ongoing, continued reality of Pentecost. He is true to his word and his deepest desire – he helps others to see their God-given gifts, how they can be best put to use in building up the Body of Christ, the Church, offers the words of encouragement to wind them up, and then lets us go. Time and again.

Thank you, Father Charlie. On behalf of so many, thank you for the gift of your friendship and guidance through the years, but most of all, thank you for the gift of your ministry and your priesthood.

And so, our journey in FAITH continues.

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DISCIPLESHIP

For personal reflection or small group discussion Marriage Matters

•H ave you and your spouse ever disagreed about your financial obligations to your children?

If yes, talk about how you can incorporate God’s guidance into your discussion.

Parenting Journey

•H ave you discussed noninvasive ways you can monitor your child’s cell phone and internet use that sets expectations and builds trust?

Spiritual Fitness

•H ow can you, in your daily life, truly listen to God and work to draw closer to him?

Theology 101

•C an you think of ways to turn potentially tension-filled conversations about religion into a chance to evangelize your loved ones?

Ordination

• H ave you ever experienced a moment or time in your life that prompted you to hear God’s call?

Cover story

•F ather Charlie talked about the joys of his 50 years of priesthood. What brings you joy in your vocation in life?

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

INSIDE JULY/AUGUST

YEARS AS A PRIEST FAITH’s founding editor FATHER CHARLES IRVIN P. 18

P. 9

YOUR LIFE

YOUR STORIES

6 marriage matters

He says: ‘We can’t afford to pay for our daughter’s college.’ She says: ‘We should take out loans.’

What do they do?

7 work life

How do I juggle the demands of two bosses?

parenting journey

My teenage daughter might be using Snapchat for sexting

8 goodlife

My parents and I disagree about my college major

P. 15

15 ordination 2017 YOUR FAITH

9 spiritual fitness

Lectio Divina – Praying through the year with Scripture

10 in the know with Father Joe When we see design, we assume a designer

12 theology 101

What do you say when …

Family members claim religion doesn’t matter as long as you’re a good person?

The Diocese of Lansing was blessed with two new priests

22 our story

For Brig and Fran, Legatus is an opportunity to ‘really listen to God’s voice’

PLUS

FOLLOW FAITH PUB SHARE YOUR FAITH WITH YOUR FRIENDS AND FOLLOWERS

28 special report

Parish financial procedures How are parish funds handled?

30 popewatch 5

YOUR LIFE

MARRIAGE MATTERS

HE SAYS:

We can’t afford to pay for our daughter’s college Our daughter is in high school, and Mary and I don’t have the income sufficient to set up a college fund. I paid for my own college education with part-time jobs, and I think our daughter should do the same. I am not willing to take on debt at this age – she has years to make up the money; we do not.

SHE SAYS:

Mark and I both went to college in a time when it was possible to pay for it with a student job. But times have changed. I think we owe it to our daughter to help her out by signing Parent-Plus loans to partially fund her school expenses.

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We should take out loans

COLLEGE COSTS HAVE SKYROCKETED in recent WHAT DO years, and student loan THEY DO? debt has risen along with them. There is a dizzying array of financing options – enough to overwhelm any parent.

The short answer to this dilemma is research as if it all depends on you and pray as if it all depends on God. Many colleges offer financial aid packages, and federal student aid can take the form of outright grants, loans to the student (rather than the parents) or work-study, which provides part-time employment. Parent-Plus loans, which allow the parents to borrow money for their child’s education, are another option.

The bigger question here is not about college, but 6

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about Mark and Mary’s shared vision of parenting and financial planning – two of the issues that often cause trouble in marriages. This is a good time for them to sit down together and take stock. They need to ask themselves: • What do we think our financial obligations are to our children? Do we want to fund education? Help with down payments on houses?

• Do we believe in leaving money as an inheritance?

• What are our shared retirement goals? (You may want to meet with a financial planner if you have not done so.)

• Consider your expectations for where and how you will live in the upcoming years or whether you anticipate increased travel.

• Make time to pray together so that you are allowing God to guide you in all your decisions.

Note: Nothing in this column is meant to provide psychological or medical diagnosis, treatment or opinion.

DR. MANUEL P. SANTOS AND KAREE SANTOS

are co-authors of The Four Keys to Everlasting Love: How Your Catholic Marriage Can Bring You Joy for a Lifetime (Ave Maria Press, 2016).

YOUR LIFE WORK LIFE

How do I juggle the demands of

TWO BOSSES?

YOUR LIFE PARENTING JOURNEY

My teenage daughter might be using Snapchat for sexting

I’M AN ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Q for two attorneys who are both partners in Q a law firm. I’m often in a position where they’ve

A

Sue them?

You’ve got three problems: overload, ambiguity and two “me first” bosses. Three solutions are communication, coordination and clarity.

Coordination. Having two bosses is not a good setup. Three’s a crowd, so the work needs to be orchestrated.

Give them a real, recent You’ve got three problems: example of assignments overload, ambiguity, and that overlapped two “me first” bosses. Three or clashed. At solutions are communication, a minimum, coordination and clarity. request a brief weekly meeting where they forecast and sort out the workflow. Plan the work and work the plan.

Clarity. “Plans fail for lack of counsel.” (Prv 15:22) Airplanes board passengers by status – diamond, platinum, gold, silver, and suckers (so to speak).

Propose a simple coding system to rank tasks by importance or urgency.

Assuming you get agreement, expect glitches and actively subordinate. Make it a habit to alert them when tasks are excessive or competing, and keep settling out of court.

T. GENNARA

JIM BERLUCCHI is

the executive director of the Spitzer Center for Visionary Leadership.

ing Snapchat for sexting – but since the app deletes photos right away, I don’t have hard evidence, and I’m not sure how to confront her about it.

A

Sexting is a relatively recent phenomenon that has become widely known among teens and young adults. How can you best protect your daughter and have a difficult conversation?

T. GENNARA

Communication. Outline your dilemma in writing to both of them. Your production will be greatly enhanced by regular communication among the three of you, and the two of them in particular.

daughter might be us-

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given me too much to do and the work needs to be prioritized. Neither one sees his work as being “second.” How do I juggle their demands?

I suspect my 16-year-old

DR. CATHLEEN MCGREAL

is a psychology professor and certified spiritual director.

REFRAMING YOUR CONCERNS. Your language reminded me of a district attorney preparing a case! Your daughter is under suspicion, but you and she actually are on the same side. As a parent, it is your role to monitor her activities and guide her in the safe use of society’s tools.

Her role is to heed that guidance, and to learn to make wise decisions.

SETTING EXPECTATIONS THAT BUILD TRUST. The best time to establish boundaries is when children first start using phones outside your supervision.

Let them know that you plan to monitor their apps. When aspects of privacy and autonomy are discussed early, then trust is built, rather than violated. Set the consequences for violations – the deletion of apps, monitoring of media use, or even removal of the phone.

REHEARSING YOUR DISCUSSION. Your daughter may think that her photos disappear, but they aren’t as ephemeral as she thinks. Snapchat will let her know if someone has taken a screen shot, but a photo can always be taken from a different phone. Provocative sexting, even without photos, is disprespectful of her body and is dangerous. The “teens” that she is interacting with may actually be sexual predators.

Think ahead about your conversation. Ask how she uses Snapchat.

Although many teens just use it for fun, there are many others who use it for flirtatious and sexual reasons. Make sure she understands the dangers.

Sexting seems normative to many in our culture, but it is not. It is personally destructive behavior with long-ranging consequences. It is also sinful – that is, it damages our relationship with God, who has created us in his image. The wisdom of the world is not God’s wisdom: “Has not God made the wisdom of the world foolish?” (1 Cor 1:20) 7

YOUR LIFE GOODLIFE

MY PARENTS AND I DISAGREE ABOUT MY COLLEGE MAJOR When you and your parents disagree about what you should study in college (and they are helping to pay for it), both sides need to make a conscious effort to be respectful and truly listen to the other. Consider this:

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Be respectful.

As parents, it is in the job description to care about the future of their children – to do everything they can to help you become successful. Realize their desires and concerns are rooted in the great love they have for you.

Know the why.

Don’t just talk about what you want to major in or what you want to do – explain the why. Have you been praying about your decisions and this is where God has led you? What career do you see yourself having and how will this major help get you there? To what is God calling you?

Consider alternatives.

Have you prayerfully discerned a religious vocation? Sometimes disagreements have a bigger purpose. Is God using your parents’ discontentment with your choices to point you in his direction?

Pray together, and on your own, about God’s will for you.

Be receptive.

Discuss ways you can explore both options. Can you job shadow or interview someone who is doing similar work? Find ways you can tangibly see what a future in either career looks like, and ask God to speak to you in those experiences and conversations.

If you keep God at the core of your purpose, he will show you the way and your parents will see his work in you.

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CYNTHIA KAAN

YOUR FAITH

SPIRITUAL FITNESS

LECTIO DIVINA

Praying through the year with Scripture Gospel for Aug. 6 – The Transfiguration of the Lord

Transfiguration of Jesus by Carl Bloch (1834-1890)

T

Jesus took Peter, James and his brother, John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” And when the disciples raised their eyes, they saw no one else but Jesus alone. As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, “Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” (Mt 17:1-9)

HIS PASSAGE FROM SCRIPTURE is one of my favorite sections to read. Why? Because it tells us so much about God’s care for

his disciples and, as a result, it speaks powerfully to what awaits us when we leave this earthly life and enter eternal life – fullness of life, true and lasting life forever. Even that is hard to grasp because we are finite. So, let’s “walk” through this scene.

Jesus, in his mercy, has given them a taste of the presence of God – that their faith might increase and make them more prepared for the suffering that lies ahead.”

•W e do what the disciples did. Daily bow before the Lord, and prostrate yourself before him.

•A cknowledge his authority over you, worship his majesty and glory. Do it daily. Read the Psalms, sing the hymns, tell him in your own words of your desire to draw closer.

• When you come before God daily in prayer, acknowledge your smallness before his majesty (that’s humility). Tell him you want to draw closer to him and you want to follow him more closely (that’s obedience). Ask him to help you, day by day.

Following the Transfiguration, Jesus, with great love, tells them to rise and not to be afraid. Jesus, in his mercy, has given them a taste of the presence of God – that their faith might increase and make them more prepared for the suffering that lies ahead.

Brothers and sisters who are reading this column: All I have done is to introduce you to this powerful encounter between God and human beings. But it is not just an account of what happened to three disciples. It is a sign of what awaits those of us who are faithful to him now – always repenting when we fail and getting back up again, just like St. Peter showed us so many times.

SISTER ANN SHIELDS

is a renowned author and a member of the Servants of God’s Love. @srannshieldssgl

T. Gennara

Jesus takes Peter, James and John up a high mountain, and he is transfigured before them.

What does that mean? As far as the disciples could tolerate, Jesus shows himself in his majesty and glory of God the Son. Then something further happens: Jesus is seen conversing with Moses and Elijah. Peter speaks for them all when he asks the Lord if he could build three tents – dwelling places – for the majesty and splendor of Jesus and the reflection of that glory in Moses and Elijah. No dwelling could ever contain God’s glory, but Peter is trying to find a way, with his human resources, to honor them.

Then a bright cloud comes near and casts a shadow over them. They were being given a small taste of the majesty and power of God and the glory of heaven. I emphasize the word “small” in this sentence because we humans who are finite cannot grasp the infinite – not even a tiny taste without the help of God. If all of this were not enough, they then hear a voice announcing to them: “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; Listen to him!” Those last three words are addressed, not just to the first disciples, but to each of us who seek to follow Jesus.

HOW DO WE LEARN TO LISTEN?

9

WHEN WE SEE DESIGN,

WE ASSUME A DESIGNER Q

DEAR FATHER JOE: Some of my Protestant friends insist the Genesis account is to be taken literally – the Adam and Eve story is a factual account and evolution is a fairy tale. There seems to be a lot of scientific evidence for evolution – do I have to disavow that?

A

Thanks for sending in this question – it’s a good opportunity for us to take a look at how Catholics read Scripture and what we understand about creation.

Our first principle to think of is this: despite some uninformed statements that get thrown about, we Catholics love science. We embrace the fact that God created us with the incredible gift of curiosity and the means to act Despite some uninformed on that gift. We are encouraged statements that get thrown and challenged by Holy Mother about, we Catholics love Church to grow in our knowledge science. We embrace the fact of what God created and how it all works. It is a wonderful gift that God created us with the that God has given us. incredible gift of curiosity and It seems to me that “outsiders,” the means to act on that gift.” if you’ll excuse the term, do not distinguish between Catholics and Fundamentalists. As Catholics, we read the Scripture a bit differently. Dr. Peter Kreeft has a great article on the difference between the way Catholics and fundamentalists read Scripture. In it, he points out a lot of the differences and similarities between these two Christian camps. At one point, it reads: Catholics agree that Scripture is infallible, or 10

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free from error, but not necessarily grammatical, mathematical, or scientific error, only error in its message.

For example, when a biblical poet speaks of “the four corners of the earth” he’s reflecting the common ancient Hebrew belief that the earth is flat; yet his point is not the shape of the earth but the glory of God. This is as good a summary as any for what we need to look at here.

So, if the “war between Catholics and science” is a fake one, what do we believe? As Catholics, we are given a lot of wiggle room in terms of what we believe about how the universe came about. Think of it this way: we want to balance what God has revealed to us through Scripture and sacred tradition with what he wants to teach us through our learning and discoveries. St. Thomas Aquinas put it this way: “One should not try to defend the Christian faith with arguments that are so patently opposed to reason that the faith is made to look ridiculous.”

So, how do we balance a love for truth and faith together when it comes to how God created? When I was in seminary, I was taught that we look at the story of creation and understand three truths that every Catholic must hold:

of love.” We believe this community of love created the human person for the purposes of love. As one of the prayers priests use at weddings reads, “We were created by love, out of love and for love.” Your purpose and mine is not so much practical as others would tell us – we are a response of love.

“[Everyone must] confess the world and all things which are contained in it, both spiritual and material, as regards their whole substance, have been produced by God from nothing.”

Beyond these points, when we look at human evolution, it is important for us to understand that human souls were created by God and placed in the human.

The website for our bishops, www.usccb.org, has a great quote that I’d like to close this out with.

I hope you find it helpful and I pray that we all respond to this by fearlessly plumbing the heights and depths of God’s creation, to learn how our God created and what that means for us. I pray we approach all that we learn in humble submission to what God has revealed and passed on to us through Jesus and his bride, the Church.

“The Bible is the story of God’s relationship with the people he has called to himself. It is not intended to be read as history text, a science book, or a political manifesto. In the Bible, God teaches us the truths that we need for the sake of our salvation.”

Enjoy another day in God’s presence!

SECOND, GOD CREATED ON PURPOSE The earth is not an accident, you are not an accident. The interrelated nature of God’s creation shows us a great deal of design and that speaks to us about who God is. A simple way to think of it is with the statement “whenever we see design, we assume a designer.” This is true of everything we encounter in life, I believe. Scripture puts it this way: “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made, and all their host [stars, nebulae, planets] by the breath of his mouth.” (Ps. 33:6) THIRD, GOD CREATED OUT OF LOVE St. Pope John Paul II wrote some amazing things about the Trinity. He described it as “a community

YOUR FAITH IN THE KNOW WITH FATHER JOE

FATHER JOE KRUPP

T. Gennara

FIRST, GOD CREATED OUT OF NOTHING At the end of 1869, the Church held a council that we call Vatican I. From that Ecumenical Council, we have a document called Canons on God the Creator of All Things. The fifth canon of that document reads (in part):

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

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What do you say when …

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: At a recent family gathering, several of my family members were saying that it doesn’t matter what religion you are, as long as you are a good person. What can I say?

FIRST THINGS FIRST One of the first things you can do is to agree that being a good person is important. You can also acknowledge the goodness of your family members’ underlying desire. That is, they are seeking some common, unifying value capable of overcoming the 12

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divisions and conflicts that are often attributed to differences in religious beliefs.

At the same time, you need to examine your own reaction to this statement. Is it true? Is the goodness of a person the point of all religions? Do religions merely represent different paths to the same goal and are they, therefore, all equally valid and true?

MANY PATHS, SAME GOD

S. OLSON

In 2017, Theology 101 is focusing on the topic of evangelization.

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FAMILY MEMBERS CLAIM RELIGION DOESN’T MATTER AS LONG AS YOU’RE A GOOD PERSON?

DOUG CULP

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

The claim that all religions are equally valid and true since all represent different paths that lead to the same destination is well-intentioned. However, this position seeks to build unity among people and religions by, in essence, negating religion altogether. To hold that all religions are equally valid and true is to say that no religion is ultimately valid or true. Every

YOUR FAITH THEOLOGY 101

religion makes absolute truth claims, many of which contradict the absolute truth claims of other faiths.

FOR FURTHER REFLECTION THE TRUTH, THE WHOLE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH Next, you might gently probe your family members’ position to see if their assertion is capable of accomplishing its goal of transcending religion in order to attain unity. A great way to do this is to simply ask them questions. For example, a few fundamental questions would be: What does it mean to be a good person? Who determines the definition of a good person? What are the criteria for determining whether someone is good? Where do the criteria come from? Why are these the criteria and not some other criteria?

Questions like these reveal that we simply cannot assert the absolute truth of something without making a dogmatic claim at the same time. Absolute truth claims are by nature dogmatic.

So, when we say that being a good person supersedes religion, we are creating a new dogma that “good” behavior transcends all other religious truth. We are establishing our own truth as the criterion against which all other claims of truth must be measured. It’s as if being a “good” person is now a religion in itself.

Consider prayerfully reading the following Gospel passages: As he was setting out on a journey, a man ran up, knelt down before him, and asked him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus answered him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. You know the commandments: ‘You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; you shall not defraud; honor your father and your mother.’” He replied and said to him, “Teacher, all of these I have observed from my youth.” Jesus, looking at him, loved him and said to him, “You are lacking in one thing. Go, sell what you have, and give to [the] poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.” At that statement his face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” (Mk 10:17-23) REFLECTION QUESTIONS: 1. H ow might this passage speak to the assertion made by the family members?

2. What does it have to say about our ability to be good?

3.

What does Jesus’ conversation with the rich man mean for the claim that being a good person is all that matters?

THE TENSION

EVANGELIZATION QUIZ Who said the following? [T]he Lord has created us in his image and likeness, and has given us this commandment in our heart: Do good and do not do evil.

The Lord has redeemed all of us, all of us, with the blood of Christ: all of us, not just Catholics. Everyone! ... And we all have a duty to do good. And this commandment for everyone to do good, I think, is a beautiful path towards peace. If we, with everyone doing his own part; if we do good to others, if we meet there, doing good, and we go slowly, gently, little by little, we will make that culture of meeting: we need that so much. We must meet one another doing good. ‘But I don’t believe, Father, I am an atheist!’ But do good! We shall meet there.

A. St. Ambrose B. Pope Benedict XVI

C. St. Isidore D. Pope Francis Answer: (D) Pope Francis

We often try to escape the tensions of life, but life happens precisely in the tension. Rather than deal seriously with the competing truth claims of different religions through the hard, long work of dialogue, mutual respect and a commitment to seeking the truth together, we are sometimes tempted to search out shortcuts to avoid healthy, necessary conflict in the name of peace. Your family members’ statement offers you the perfect opportunity to model what this means in practice.

Certainly, being a good person is an important step to establishing peace between people. The question remains, though: is it enough? Does being a good person represent the fullness of the truth?

Our Catholic faith would answer with a clear “no.” It is Christ’s death and resurrection that save, not our being good. Yes, we are to try to be good people (a tremendous challenge given that we live in a fallen world plagued by sin), but more so we are called to the life of Christian discipleship – a discipleship that finds its fullest expression at the intersection of the Tree of Life that is the wood of the cross.

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St. Mary’s in Westphalia makes campaign a priority

PARISH MORE THAN DOUBLES ITS GOAL

F

OLLOWING A SPORTS GAME, it’s not uncommon for athletes to celebrate their victory by showering a coach with water or Gatorade.

In the same congratulatory spirit, Father Eric Weber, pastor of St. Mary Parish in Westphalia, was doused with water June 7 to applaud the parish’s success with the diocesan-wide Witness to Hope campaign. The campaign raises funds for individual parishes and for diocesan initiatives.

“Father Eric is what I would call an absolute rock star. He made (the campaign) a priority, and when pastors make it a priority, it’s bound to be successful,” says Greater Mission Campaign Director Joseph Citro, who was assigned to St. Mary’s to assist behind the scenes. “The pastors are the face of this.”

Greater Mission is a Catholic development services firm that has been contracted by the Diocese of Lansing to assist in conducting Witness to Hope. Greater Mission has presented to each parish a prayerful, confidential and uplifting way for people to make a sacrificial gift based on a Decision of Faith.

Like all important endeavors, Witness to Hope does take time and effort on the part of parish leadership, but this effort is fully supported by the professional and faith-filled campaign directors who provide expert help.

St. Mary launched its campaign in January with three goals: add a cafeteria to the parish school and expand the kitchen;

refresh the parish hall; and develop a rainy day fund for substantial repairs, such as a roof. The Parish Council, Finance Council and staff worked together to discuss St. Mary’s future, and the Witness to Hope campaign gave them the jump-start they needed to reach for their goals.

“Strong parishes make for a strong diocese, so I think that really increased the enthusiasm for me and the parish,” Father Eric says.

And increase the enthusiasm it did. With 54 percent participation, St. Mary’s more than doubled its $937,756 goal.

In fact, by June 6, the parish had raised more than $2.1 million.

The average parish participation rate is 38 percent, according to Joseph.

“We’re really grateful to the bishop for structuring the campaign in this way, because it allows the parish to do a lot of projects,” Father Eric says.

Father Eric began by meeting with 46 individuals and couples for anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to discuss the parish needs. Joseph explains that meeting with families who can potentially contribute a significant portion of the parish’s goal moves the campaign in the right direction – and getting people to attend a meeting is the first step in the campaign’s playbook.

“We have a plan, and when pastors stick to that plan and make the time, it’s going to be successful. It’s just proven,” Joseph says.

When addressing the needs of the church, Father Eric says they focused on the history of St. Mary’s, showcasing an aerial photograph of the campus from the 1960s to demonstrate what projects have been completed over the years.

The parish’s Steering Committee, which is comprised of lay leaders who represent different parts of the church, played a vital role in educating the parishioners. Co-chairs Bill Hengesbach and Cindy Fedewa and members Steve Thelen, Linda Lunda, Dean Kohagen, Donna Wirth, Brian Kowatch, Katie Pung, Darron Birchmeier and Janay Bengal were crucial to the campaign, according to Father Eric.

“These parishioners who were out there in the trenches, they were able to share the facts, and they were able to share why this was important and why they believed in it,” Joseph says.

Greater Mission supplied the committee with resources to answer the community’s questions, and they were walked through what the parish and the diocese were looking to accomplish. The committee also decided to create a FAQs document – tailored to St. Mary – separate from the diocese’s FAQs. The parish then held 10 open houses and made the presentation available online for those who could not attend a session.

In addition to the generosity of the parishioners, Father Eric says having a successful campaign came down to the time invested.

“It’s hard to prioritize this, and if you want it to work, it’s like everything else — you have to put in the time and energy,” he says. “I’d love to really convey my gratitude to the parish for their generosity. It’s another way of them showing how much they value their faith and the parish that they were so willing to contribute.” CARI ANN DELAMIELLEURE-SCOTT

YOUR STORIES

INTERESTED IN PRIESTHOOD? CONTACT FATHER JOHN LINDEN AT 517.342.2507

O R D I N A T I O N

2017

THE DIOCESE OF LANSING WAS BLESSED with two new priests on June 10. Bishop Earl

Boyea ordained Joseph Campbell and Anthony Smela to the priesthood at St. Mary Cathedral in Lansing. In the following pages, meet the two newest priests for the Diocese of Lansing and enjoy photos of their ordinations. You can view more photos at WWW.FAITHPUB.COM. PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM GENNARA

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O R D I N A T I O N

2017

Father Joseph Campbell

Father Joseph Campbell was raised in a family of 10 from Ann Arbor. He is assigned to St. Patrick Parish in Brighton.

How did you know you were called to the priesthood? I wanted to be a priest during my whole childhood. In high school, I began to try to talk myself out of it because of girls, but I eventually began to realize that I was not going to be at peace unless I at least gave seminary a chance. So I entered college seminary after graduating from high school, hoping at first that I would get kicked out or at least quickly discern that God was actually calling me to be married. But with time, I began to be more open to God’s call and to ask for the desire for the priesthood, if that was what God really wanted.

The turning point for me came at the end of the third year in college seminary when I finally said to God that if he wanted me to be a priest, then that’s what I wanted to do. From that point on, my desire for the priesthood only began to grow. After my sixth year of seminary, I knew that my discernment was over. God was making it abundantly clear to me that he was calling me to be a priest in the Diocese of Lansing, and the time had come to commit to that and to present myself to the bishop for holy orders.

What advice do you have for discerning a vocation? Pray, pray, pray, pray! If you are sincerely seeking after God and his plan for your life, he will make it clear to you. But this all takes time and hours and hours before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. The hardest thing about discernment is that it takes so much patience and perseverance. Also, find a spiritually mature person to talk to about what you are experiencing in prayer and discernment. Often, others are much better at seeing things going on in your spiritual life than you are.

What are your thoughts about living a priestly life? I’ve only had a little taste of the priestly life so far, but what I’ve experienced is incredible. Priestly life is intimate, exciting, challenging, draining, dynamic, diverse, exceedingly public, yet almost monastic, multifaceted, intellectual, pastoral, self-giving and so much more. Priesthood is certainly not boring! It is a wonderful life, and I can’t wait to dive in and experience it fully after being ordained.

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O R D I N A T I O N

2017

Father Anthony Smela

Father Anthony Smela’s home parish is St. Mary Queen of Angels in Swartz Creek. Growing up a University of Michigan fan, he is very pleased that his first assignment is at St. Thomas the Apostle in Ann Arbor.

What led you to answer God’s call to become a priest? There was a nine-month period in my life in college when I was flat-out miserable. I thought I had all the things I wanted, but something was missing. I realized that I was only giving God the leftovers of my life, and I decided to go out on a limb and give him more. In this time, God began to place the idea of the priesthood in my head over and over again. It was then that I gave in and made the decision to enter the seminary. It would take another few years of discernment in the seminary to realize that God was also calling me to the priesthood.

What message would you pass along to those who want to serve God, but do not know how? Where is the Holy Spirit moving your heart? Whenever I think about the priesthood and working with people in a parish, my heart begins to burn with desire. Where do you experience the Holy Spirit burning your heart with desire? Be patient, and give the Lord time to speak to you.

What has seminarian life been like for you? The journey has been incredible. I’ve been able to do things I never thought possible. I’ve traveled to the Holy Land, received a master's degree and played on an ice hockey team, just to name a few of the incredible opportunities God has given me since entering seminary. I’ve learned firsthand that you cannot outdo God in generosity.

I’m not the academic type. I have to admit that the academics involved in seminary were difficult. I didn’t have a desire to even go to college after high school. Now that I’ve finished my 10th year of school after graduating high school, I have to say that there is nothing else I would have rather done. Not that I enjoy academics any more than I did (because I don’t), but I knew I was doing God’s will through it all. That’s the key. Doing God’s will, even if it’s difficult, is more fulfilling than anything else.

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YEARS AS A PRIEST FAITH’s founding editor FATHER CHARLES IRVIN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JIM LUNING

MAY 1, 2017 – THIS IS FATHER DWIGHT EZOP, and I am joined by Father Charles Irvin, and we are sitting here at his dining room table in his condominium on the grounds of St. Francis Retreat Center.

We are anticipating Father Charlie’s 50th anniversary and ordination as a priest of the Diocese of Lansing.

Father Dwight: So first let me begin, Father

years as a priest, there is a great deal you have Charlie, by simply saying congratulations on experienced. I want to start with joy. What 50 years as a priest. were some of the joys you have known?

Father Charlie: Thank you, I never thought FC: Children receiving first Communion. it possible.

Children, “period.” Young FD: I was just thinking. We married couples, couples who have known one another for have fallen in love and come to I think one of 30 years this year, if you can me to perform their marriage. I the greatest believe that. I joined St. Francis think one of the greatest joys I joys I have in 1987 when you were the have had has been the response had has been new pastor there. I joined the of people when you are simply the response parish in September 1987, and nice to them, and you let them of people you would have arrived at the know you care for them and when you are parish at the end of June, first love them. simply nice to Another occasion, years part of July. them, and you FC: I was ordained in 1967 ago, I was with a group of let them know and spent 11 years at St. Mary priests. We went to Rome and you care for Student Parish in Ann Arbor, throughout Italy to study early them and love from 1967 to 1978.

Christian architecture. One them.

FD: What was it like to grow up Tuesday evening, we got a call in Ann Arbor? from Pope Paul VI’s secretary FC: Ann Arbor has quite a asking us if we would like to history to it. When I was a little boy, it was a concelebrate with the pope tomorrow in his typical Midwestern town with maybe 35,000 apartment. If so, we should meet outside permanent residents. the steps of St. Peter’s Basilica at 6:30 in the morning. So, I concelebrated Mass with the FD: I know that during the course of your 50 19

YEARS AS A PRIEST FAITH’s founding editor FATHER CHARLES IRVIN

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Holy Father, shoulder to shoulder. So that was quite a thrill.

FD: As a priest, we often encounter people who are experiencing sorrow. What is it like in those moments?

FC: I think the good news is that Jesus Christ has risen from the dead and death doesn’t have power over us. Offering people the truth, that God will not separate himself from us, as long as we let him stay close to us. Whatever happens is because of our response to his presence.

FD: I know you have been on a journey of

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priesthood in 50 years and that has involved stops at four different parishes as a pastor: St. Mary Student Chapel, Ann Arbor; Holy Spirit, Hamburg; St. Francis of Assisi, Ann Arbor; and St. Mary, Manchester. Four very different parishes.

FC: Four very different types of happiness, joys, successes and all that.

FD: What stands out to you in each of those four different places?

FC: In terms of St. Mary Student Parish, the idealistic views these university students had of what can be. Their willingness to engage the world with all of its defects, and they were not afraid to question.

FD: You were the founding pastor at Holy Spirit, Hamburg. That had to be a completely different experience.

FC: Yes, it was. All of my creative juices came alive and were necessary. I had to find property, a place to say Mass and I had to steal people from the parishes – north, south, east and west. I had no conscience at all. I was a sheep stealer from the beginning, and stole as many souls as I could in order to start Holy Spirit.

FD: A priestly cattle rustler.

FC: I was literally creating something out of nothing. I finally purchased property and we started celebrating Mass in a local VFW hall.

On Sunday morning, the men of the parish would go to the VFW hall to clean and set up for church. The pool table became an altar.

FD: There had to be a real sense of excitement for people at that time.

FC: Yes, they all realized they were part of something new and we were going to be different. Of course, the sense of community and family was very strong.

FD: What about St. Francis, the largest of the parishes?

FC: It was a great job trying to manage a parish that had 2,800 families and more than 500 kids in the school – learning how to motivate people and keep it all glued together. It was a wonderful learning experience for me.

FD: You wound down your time at St. Francis in 1997 after 10 years. Then you went off to what you always referred to as a Norman Rockwell portrait of Middle America – St. Mary Parish in Manchester.

FC: Yes, it was. I had 300 families, a bit of a culture change. They were used to having Father decide everything.

FD: I know it was during your time at Manchester that FAITH magazine began to

gestate. What was that period like? How did for other dioceses and Catholic organizations with a combined circulation of more than 1.9 the magazine come about?

FC: Since 1970, I had been writing a column million. Could you ever have imagined that? in Catholic newspapers. Bishop Mengeling FC: No, no ... I didn’t. decided he wanted his own newspaper, and my FD: Now, when you look back across 50 years of writing experience gave me the skills to be its priesthood, I am sure there were highs and lows editor. I went to several Catholic newspapers – and I am sure there were lessons of things you and discovered that Catholic newspapers were didn’t want to learn and lessons of things you on a decline. did want to learn. If you had the ability to get in I said I can give you a full-color magazine a time machine as Father Charlie of today and of 24 pages that will transmit go back and meet Father Charlie formation information, not of 1967, what advice would you just facts and data. It will give him?

If you have a be about evangelization and FC: Keep on truckin. dream or a communications, and I know FD: Meaning what? hope, never Father Dwight Ezop, J. Munley FC: If you have a dream or a give up. So in and some seminarians at hope, never give up. So in spite spite of the Mundelein who are producing a of the misfortunes, with God misfortunes, magazine called The Bridge that on your side, how can you lose? with God on is very successful, and we can do And you are doing his work. your side, it here at the Diocese of Lansing.

FD: One final question: How how can you Bishop Mengeling decided has being a priest for 50 years lose? this is what he wanted to do, and changed your relationship with a plan for funding was created.

God? The original staff was only four FC: Much closer. Being close to people. We were able to publish and distribute God, his closeness to me and my prayer life 70,000 issues each month for the Diocese has become very personal, very intimate and of Lansing and, fortunately, other bishops very warm. also were interested in publishing their own FD: So you are a different person? diocesan magazine based on the FAITH model. FC: I hope so.

FD: So, you started Jan. 1, 2000, with FAITH FD: How do you want to spend the last years magazine for the Diocese of Lansing with a of your priesthood? circulation of about 80,000 a month, and FC: More time of personal prayer. Whatever now FAITH Catholic publishes 49 magazines God wants.

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YOUR STORIES OUR STORY

For Brig and Fran, Legatus is an opportunity to

‘REALLY LISTEN TO GOD’S VOICE’

BY ROSE ROBERTSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY TOM GENNARA

E

VER BEEN INVITED SOMEWHERE and felt it was exactly what you were looking for? That happened to Brig Sorber, one of the founders of Two Men and a Truck, and his wife, Francine. Brig had been a member of the Young Presidents Organization, a group of young CEOs who gathered regularly in Detroit to exchange business ideas and learn from each other. At 49, he aged out and expressed to his wife, Fran, a desire for a similar experience, but one that was faith-based. Almost as if on cue, the couple was invited to attend the first Legatus meeting for Lansing-area Catholic business leaders and spouses. The Sorbers were hooked after their first encounter.

“Legatus’ mission statement is to bring more faith into our businesses and our communities. This organization brings that mix together,” says Brig. “As owners of large enterprises, our challenges are different.

Our decisions can affect hundreds, so it’s important to have our Catholic faith behind them. Legatus helps show the differences between faith-based and dollarbased determinations, giving us strength to live our 22

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faith publicly.”

Tom Monaghan, the founder of Domino's Pizza, was inspired to found Legatus during a 1987 visit with Pope St. John Paul II. Monaghan, also a member of the secular YPO, recognized the need for a business group which incorporated the faith dimension into their practices. His goal was to create an association for Catholic business executives, and their spouses,

for Jesus to walk in.” Two of the many ways the company gives back to the community are through Movers for Moms (a program in which locations collect donations for women every spring and deliver them to local women’s and family shelters) and by donating 10 cents of every move to the American Cancer Society.

Averaging three moves every minute, that quickly adds up.

Fran and Brig have been married 31 years and have three children, Alicia, Jake and Brycen. They have been extraordinary ministers of holy Communion at St. Martha Parish in Okemos and the Dobie Road Care Facility for more than 12 years. Fran spends a couple hours each week at St. Vincent Catholic Charities (STVCC), helping bring faith to the which would provide both spiritual STVCC kids. Brig gives personal sustenance and business support.

Legatus helps show the faith testimony at prayer breakfasts Fran comments, “This differences between faitharound the country, and serves on organization is a nice way to share the STVCC board. Other Legatus faith values. It was the answer based and dollar-based members serve on community we wanted to learn more about determinations, giving us boards such as STVCC, Volunteers business, but also to share with strength to live our faith of America and the Greater Lansing other executives who care about publicly.”

Food Bank. Fran states, “The bottom their faith. And it’s not just about line is you want people to be able to business. It points back to the come to Christ.” importance of the family unit, giving us ideas of Legatus, simply put, is a faith-based support system how we can strengthen our marriage and values. It for Catholic executives, allowing business leaders to encourages couples to do more together, and gives address their specific employee/customer concerns in the guidance on decision-making. It’s enriched our light of Christ. Brig summarizes: “Legatus is the Catholic marriage in so many ways.” voice of business leadership. With all the negativity Charter members of the Lansing Chapter since society dumps on us, it is like tuning into a different 2013, Brig and Fran enjoyed the organizational skills news source, based on our Catholic faith. Legatus is a of Kelly Dean, owner of Dean Transportation, who rock you stand on for a few hours each month, let the pulled the initial group together under the request of world stop, and really listen to God’s voice.”

Bishop Boyea. Currently president, Brig is responsible for planning the monthly venue and speaker. Venues, typically near a Catholic church, allow their chaplain, Msgr. Bernard Riley, to preside at Mass. Brig was Tom Monaghan structured motivated to add a reflective piece to the evening Legatus for a busy Catholic agenda, asking members to explore deeper spiritual executive running a corporation questions with the group: “We had conversations that employing a minimum of 40 were outstanding, and couples asked for more of this. employees or with a $1 million The evolution of the Lansing Chapter of Legatus is annual payroll. Monthly meetings taking us to a deeper spiritual component.” begin with the rosary, Mass and Within the business operations of Two Men and a reconciliation. Members have time Truck, the Sorbers make subtle faith opportunities to socialize before the sit-down available to their staff. Weekly Bible studies are ongoing, dinner. After dinner, a well-known speaker shares information designed to and prayer is part of every event. “I tell our employees,” inspire both business and spiritual acumen. Topics range from business, says Brig, “‘Jesus walks these halls every day, and you’re enjoying the radiation of love he gives our office.’ We don’t to ethics, to family. Time is given for discussion. In addition, yearly retreats and pilgrimages are available to the membership of all 75 chapters. beat them over the head with faith, but we open a door

LEGATUS

DON QUILLAN

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YOUR COMMUNITY THINGS TO DO July 5, 12, 19 and 26, Wednesdays, 7 p.m., St. John, Howell will hold Basic Catholic Teaching – Marriage Preparation. To pre-register, call the parish office at 517.546.7200.

July 6-8, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., St. Joseph Parish, Dexter will host its annual Flea Market at 3430 Dover St. Donations for the flea market will be accepted June 25-July 2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For information, visit stjos.com or call 734.426.8483.

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 Beth Bauer at 734.879.0427 or Lpbbauer@yahoo.com.

July 11, 7-8:30 p.m., St. Thomas Apostle, Ann Arbor will have a onehour presentation about “Unbound,” a powerful model of prayer for freedom and spiritual healing, ending with a short “clinic” on how to apply five keys of scriptural principles to your life that will set you free to be who you really are and live the life you always were meant to live. For information, contact the parish office at 734.761.8606.

July 14-16, St. Joseph Church, 6805 Mast Rd., Dexter, will host its 39th annual festival, beginning with a kick-off concert 7-9 p.m. on July 14. A weekend of fun, great food

and free entertainment featuring ValLimar Jansen, renowned storyteller and singer. Tickets are $10 and children under 12 are free. For the entertainment lineup, visit stjos. com or call 734.426.8483.

July 15, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., St. John Catholic Church, 2099 N. Hacker Rd., Howell, will host its 8th annual Car Show: awards, silent auction, Fast Eddie Band and lunch is available for purchase. General admission is $2 per car and show car entry is $20 per car. For information, call the parish office at 517.546.7200.

July 15, 5:30 p.m., St. Agnes, Fowlerville’s Knights of Columbus Council 8605 invites you to its Murder-Mystery Dinner. Admission is $20 and includes a full dinner, lively interactive entertainment and a cash bar. Tickets can be ordered in advance; payment by credit card is accepted. Contact the parish office at 517.223.8684 or call Jerry Corbar at 517.223.1138 or 517.474.2002.

July 27-30, Most Holy Trinity Church, Fowler is hosting its annual parish festival with the theme “Video Games”: July 27, classic car show; July 28, adult social tent with Vegasstyle games; July 29, volleyball tournament, Mass at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m., touch-a-truck and family movie night; and July 30, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, Mass, country store, children’s games and more, ending with raffle drawings for cash prizes totaling $6,000. For a complete schedule of events, visit mhtparish. com or call the parish office at 989.593.2162.

JULY/AUGUST CAFÉ EVENTS July 20 and Aug. 17, 6-8 p.m. in Fr. Mac Hall, St. Thomas Aquinas Church in East Lansing will host a summer opportunity for “Food, Fun and Faith Formation.”

Join us for our final two sessions.

All are welcome. An RSVP is helpful; call Dian at 517.351.5460.

Summer Scripture Days 2017 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 the church vestibule or contact Sheila Rogers at 517.669.8321 or srogers@stfrancis.ws.

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July 29, St. Anastasia Catholic Church in Troy will have an in-depth, live, free conference presenting the five keys to freedom and a lifechanging experience. To register, visit livefree17.eventbrite.com.

ATTEND A ONE-HOUR PRESENTATION ABOUT “UNBOUND,” A POWERFUL MODEL OF PRAYER FOR FREEDOM AND SPIRITUAL HEALING

REGISTER FOR MERCY AND MARY RETREAT

SHARE YOUR FAITH FOLLOW FAITH PUB ONLINE

Aug. 1-4, 6-8 p.m., St. Mark, Grand Blanc will have Vacation Bible School for all K-5th graders. To register, please email stmarkdff@hotmail.com.

Aug. 4, 5-11 p.m. and Aug. 5, noon-11 p.m., St. Michael Parish, Grand Ledge will be holding its annual Funfest, including: live entertainment, kids games, concessions, live and silent auctions and more. For information, visit stmichaelgl.org.

Aug. 4-5, Christ the King, Ann Arbor will have a Mercy and Mary Retreat open to the entire diocese.

Begins Aug. 4 at 7:15 p.m. with a talk by Father Gaitley. Registration is required for Aug. 5 and includes: talks by Father Gaitley, testimonies from several Marian Missionaries, lunch and book signing, the Divine Mercy Chaplet, adoration and Benediction. The event concludes at 5 p.m. To register, visit ctkcc.net.

For information, contact Jill Diroff at 33MorningGlory@gmail.com.

Aug. 4-6, St. Casimir, Lansing will hold its annual Corn Roast Festival, which includes: beer tent, live band, dancing, children’s games, raffles, great food and its famous corn on the cob. Raffle tickets are available to win cash prizes of up to $2,000, a big-screen TV and a trip to Mackinaw City. For more information, call 517.482.1346.

RETREATS ST. FRANCIS RETREAT CENTER, DEWITT, STFRANCIS.WS OR 866.669.8321 • July 14-16, “Praying with the Heart of the Church,” cost is $175 per person or $300 per couple.

Registration is due by July 7.

• July 16-22, “Ignatian Silent Directed Retreat,” cost is $620 per person. This includes lodging, meals and materials.

WEBER RETREAT AND CONFERENCE CENTER, WEBER.ADRIANDOMINICANS.ORG OR 517.266.4000 • July 9-15, Dominican Retreat, Sun., 3 p.m. to Sat., 1 p.m.; single occupancy, $500, double occupancy, $400 per person, commuter, $250 and Adrian Dominican Sister, $200.

• July 17-21, Summer Directed Retreat, Mon., 2 p.m. to Fri., 1 p.m.; single occupancy, $375, commuter, $250 and Adrian Dominican sister, $125.

PILGRIMAGES Oct. 16-25, join Father Bill Ashbaugh and John and Marjorie Jeter for 10 days in France to visit religious sites in Lisieux, Paris and Ares. Enjoy food, panoramic views, wines, guided tours and more. Cost per person: $3,999. For details, visit ctscentral.net or contact Rachelle at Corporate Travel at 313.565.888.

Aug. 11-13, Lansing area Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat Weekend is available to women and men suffering from the effects of post-abortion.

The weekend offers a unique sensory based treatment that integrates an emotional, psychological and spiritual dimension. For information or to register, visit newlifecenterlansing.org, email nlc@ressurectionlansing.org or call the helpline at 888.456.HOPE. 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.

Aug. 20, St. Agnes, Fowlerville is hosting its 25th annual Funfest, including: picnic-style meal, live auction, rock climbing wall, extreme air jumpers, 50/50 drawings with a jackpot raffle drawing and much more. For information, call Liz Heslip at 517.223.8684.

Sept. 15-17, the 15th annual Jackson Family Fall Festival will take place on the grounds of St. John the Evangelist Elementary School at 405 E North St. in Jackson. For more information, visit jacksonfamilyfallfestival.org.

Sept. 16, Shared Pregnancy Women’s Center is hosting its annual four-person golf scramble at College Fields Golf Club in Okemos. To register, sponsor or for more information, contact Aimee Killingsworth at spwcdvelopment@ outlook.com or call 517.622.3267.

Oct. 14, Marriage Matters Jackson presents the 15-Minute Marriage Makeover at the Michigan Theatre in Jackson. This is a great chance to “date-your-mate” and learn ways to refresh your relationship, add sizzle to your love life and be happier in just minutes a day. For details, visit MarriageMattersJackson.com or call 517.796.5116.

Join Father Robert Bacik and visit the beautiful shrines of Quebec, Canada, including: St. Joseph Oratory of Mount Royal; Basilica of Our Lady of the Cape, Cap-dela-Madeleine; Basilique-Cathedrale NotreDame de Quebec; Basilica of St. Anne de Beaupre; and Church of St. Joachim. Passport or enhanced license is mandatory. For information, please contact Kaye Pescatello at 810.262.1130 or ladykayealto@yahoo.com.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES OF WASHTENAW COUNTY, CSSWASHTENAW.ORG or 734.971.9781 Wish List: Among other things, Washtenaw Prisoner Reentry needs professional clothing and personal hygiene items; The Oaks adult day program needs arts and crafts supplies; Washtenaw Child Advocacy Center needs a vacuum and books on parenting; the Family Assessment Center needs musical instruments, blank CDs and an iPad; and the Emergency Food Program needs unopened, nonperishable food items and toiletries. Your donations make a huge difference.

Visit csswashtenaw.org/wish-list for our programs’ most current needs.

If you are interested in becoming a foster or adoptive parent, be sure to attend one of the foster care and waiting child adoption information meetings held each month 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 meeting or for more information, visit csswashtenaw.org.

LIVINGSTON COUNTY CATHOLIC CHARITIES, LIVINGSTONCATHOLICCHARITIES.ORG or 517.545.5944 Get involved – volunteers are needed: Bring joy to a homebound senior by making friendly home visits, or providing transportation to medical appointments, respite care, errands and more. Also, Be Our Guest Adult Day needs volunteers to assist with art projects, baking, playing games and much more. For information or to register, call Julie Amman or Linda Bauby at 517.545.5944.

ST. VINCENT CATHOLIC CHARITIES, LANSING, STVCC.ORG or 517.323.4734 Join our many community partners in supporting our annual Operation Backpack Campaign, where you can help send children in need back to school equipped with the necessary materials to learn. Visit stvcc.org/ operation-backpack for information and drop-off locations.

The Children’s Home has 40 children between the ages of 5 and 17 and is always looking for fun activities for them. Donations of gift cards and tickets to activities, such as movies, amusement or water parks and sporting events, help to provide experiences they would be unable to have otherwise. To learn how you can make this summer one to remember for a child, please contact Alysia Christy at 517.323.4734, ext. 1357 or christa@stvcc.org.

MSGR. SYLVESTER FEDEWA, REQUIESCAT IN PACE Rev. Msgr Sylvester Fedewa entered eternal life on June 7, 2017.

He was 89 years old. Ordained in 1954, he served a number of parishes, including St. Mary, Charlotte; St. Ann, Bellevue (twice); St. Therese Lansing; St. Michael, Grand Ledge; St. Casmir, Lansing; St. Peter, Eaton Rapids; and St. Gerard, Lansing.

He served the Diocese of Lansing in many different capacities throughout his priesthood, including at the Tribunal and as vicar general. He also was chaplain to the Knights of Columbus.

JACKSON LUMEN CHRISTI AND JROTC CADET GRAD SPEAKS AT PENTAGON Rachel Martin, 2017 Lumen Christi and JROTC Cadet graduate, had the honor of presenting her award-winning essay to the vice chief of staff of the Army at the Pentagon in June. Rachel was selected for the honor based on her essay on the theme, “Service to Others.” Rachel wrote of her mission trip to Jamaica with Lumen Christi High School. She placed second in the nation among all Army JROTC cadets, and first in Michigan. The Martin family was featured on the cover of FAITH magazine in Jan./Feb. 2016.

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LOCAL NEWS

Irvin

CATHOLIC CHARITIES’ ROADMAP TO GRADUATION CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF HELPING HOMELESS YOUTH GRADUATE

Swiat

FATHERS CHARLES IRVIN AND JAMES SWIAT CELEBRATE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF PRIESTLY ORDINATION On June 4, Father Charles Irvin, founding editor of FAITH magazine, and Father James Swiat celebrated the 50th anniversary of their priestly ordination at the Catholic Community of St. Jude in DeWitt. The priests, who were both ordained on June 3, 1967, celebrated with about 250 guests at a Mass and reception. Father Charlie presided at Mass, while Father James proclaimed the Gospel and gave the homily. A reception followed Mass, where the Knights of Columbus provided a luncheon buffet.

Speakers at the reception included the Hon. Tom Brennan, master of ceremonies, Rita Thiron, executive director at Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions and former director of the Office of Worship for the Diocese of Lansing, Father Brendan Walsh, pastor of St. Joseph, Dexter, Patrick O’Brien, CEO of FAITH Catholic, and Father Dwight Ezop, editor of FAITH magazine and pastor of St. Mary Parish, Charlotte and St. Ann Church, Bellevue.

60TH ANNIVERSARY OF PRIESTLY ORDINATION On May 7 at the 11 a.m. Mass, St. James in Mason held a celebratory liturgy and reception recognizing the 60th anniversary of priestly ordination for its former pastor, Father Kenneth McDonald (center). He was joined by Bishop emeritus Carl Mengeling (right), also celebrating his 60th anniversary of ordination. Father Kusitino Cobona (left) is the current pastor at St. James. Father McDonald was pastor from 1985 to 1999, and oversaw the building of the new church in 1990.

RELIGIOUS SISTERS WITH LOCAL TIES CELEBRATE JUBILEES In June, three natives of the Diocese of Lansing celebrated special anniversaries as Racine Koenigsknecht Dominican Sisters. The Dominican community honored Sister Bernadine (Bernita) Pohl, OP (born in Fowler and celebrating her 70th jubilee), and two women celebrating their 60th Jubilee: Sister Donna Marie (Leonard Marie) Koenigsknecht, OP (born in Pewamo) and Sister Alice (Barbara Ann) Rademacher, OP (born in Fowler). They have ministered to communities in Michigan, Wisconsin and other areas.

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FAITH Magazine | JULY/AUGUST 2017 | WWW.FAITHPUB.COM

Roadmap to Graduation, a collaborative initiative of Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee & Hillsdale Counties and community partners, places 17- and 18-year-old homeless teens in screened, safe mentor homes and provides counseling and ongoing professional support. The youths are responsible for maintaining attendance and grades in school so they can graduate and plan for their future.

Roadmap provides a monthly stipend to the mentor family to help cover their costs, while protecting the student’s dignity. In exchange, the mentor family makes the commitment to help the student focus on schoolwork, provide guidance and teach them important life skills for the future.

Roadmap to Graduation recently celebrated 10 years of service with an evening celebration where graduates from the program and their mentor families told their stories. During these first 10 years, the 68 participants in the program achieved a 100 percent graduation rate. Two were valedictorians, one received a full scholarship to the University of Michigan and 82 percent went on to a postsecondary school or joined the military.

NEW LIFE CENTER LANSING ‘CALLED TO MERCY’ BENEFIT A SUCCESS

Rademacher

Pohl

More than 300 guests attended the first New Life Center Benefit Dinner in April for the Diocese of Lansing's post-abortion recovery programs.

According to Project Rachel ministry Director Cecilia Tombelli, more than $43,000 was donated by attendees of the sold-out event who gathered to hear evangelist Dr. Alveda King, director of civil rights for the unborn, and Rev. Walter Hoye, founder of Issues4Life. At the event, Father Steve Mattson received a Community Achievement Award for his work in making the New Life Center a reality.

Parish financial procedures How are parish funds handled?

SPECIAL REPORT

T

he Diocese of Lansing has policies and procedures in place to make sure that parish funds are handled properly. Stewardship for the salvation of souls requires accountability and transparency in diocesan and parish financial management. This report is intended to inform parishioners about the systems and procedures in place to protect the funds generously donated to support the work of the Church.

What is the financial oversight practiced by the diocese for parish funds?

The bishop has the responsibility to appoint pastors, but the diocese does not manage each parish. The pastor, as the administrator of the parish, and with advice and consultation of his finance council, is responsible for managing parish funds. According to canon (Church) law, all administrators are bound to fulfill their function with the diligence of a good householder. (Can. 1284 §1) Canon law also requires parishes to submit annual financial reports to the bishop.

In 2013-14, the diocesan finance office began taking steps to define and develop an internal audit function, expanding its scope over the past few years. The diocese now employs a director of audit and accounting, as well as a full-time parish auditor. While, in the past, an internal audit was performed only when a pastor change occurred, the diocesan finance office has now performed internal audit procedures at each of its parishes in the past five years.

These procedures are designed to test and ensure that each parish has adequate internal controls necessary to safeguard both the people who handle money as well as donor intent. Some points of internal control review include, but are not limited to, managing collections, dual safeguarding of cash, the use of drop/depository safes and tamper-proof bank bags, as well as segregation of staff duties. The goal has been to promote an environment that reduces and/or removes temptation, provides protection for both staff and volunteers who handle money, and safeguards donations and other payments to the 28

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parish, all while preventing and detecting possible financial misconduct.

At times, the diocesan finance office may uncover a possible improper use of parish funds. If that occurs, outside auditors may be employed to conduct a forensic audit. A forensic audit is a deeper look – a more intense and extensive review of financial transactions over a longer period of time. When concerns appear to be confirmed, as required by law, the diocese then reports these matters to civil authorities.

What is the role of the parish finance council?

The parish finance council, as required by canon law, is advisory and consultative in nature. The members should review the parish budget and receive regular financial statements. Additionally, for large expenditures, diocesan policy requires approval from the parish finance council. Plans for large expenditures then go to the diocesan finance council for consideration and recommendation to the bishop.

Diocesan internal audit reports are given to the pastor and parish business staff, and are to be shared with the parish finance council.

What are the systems in place to help pastors and parishes improve financial processes?

Over the past four years, parishes in the diocese have been migrating to a common payroll system, as well as a common accounting platform. Roughly 90 percent of Diocese of Lansing parishes now use the same payroll system, and two-thirds are using the same accounting platform. The remaining parishes will convert in the near future. Not only do these systems create efficiencies and provide for higher levels of support from internal staff, they also allow greater oversight and accountability. In addition to these systems, an internal audit subcommittee of the diocesan finance council was established to review the findings of the parish internal audit reports and monitor progress being made to improve processes.

This group provides a degree of independence, and helps propose solutions and standards.

The diocesan finance office provides regular training opportunities, as well as a monthly newsletter, to highlight areas of risk and communicate financial best practices. New priests are provided an orientation, and new pastors go through a training program each year. Multiple trainings are offered for parish business staff each year, and parish finance council chairs are invited to meet with the bishop every other year. Each prospective employee is required to have a criminal background check prior to hiring, and a financial misconduct hotline is now available for concerns to be expressed anonymously via phone or email.

Does the Diocese of Lansing have insurance to protect parishes in cases of embezzlement?

Yes. There is insurance that covers loss of funds due to crimes such as theft and embezzlement. If it is necessary and a loss can be proven, parishes may be able to recover much, if not all, of the lost funds.

How are clergy paid?

Contrary to what many people may understand, diocesan priests do not take a vow of poverty.

Religious order priests often do. Diocesan priests earn a salary from the parish. They can own personal property. Diocesan priests cannot have side businesses without the approval of the bishop. The average annual base pay for priests in the Diocese of Lansing is around $35,000 to $40,000. There is a remuneration schedule that outlines salary, benefits, taxes, and expenses that can be reimbursed, as well as a reference guide for parish business staff and finance council members. Priests are also provided reasonable room and board, usually in a rectory, according to IRS and diocesan guidelines.

What is the status of a priest accused of a crime?

Does the diocese pay the attorney fees for a priest who is accused of a civil crime?

Neither the diocese nor the parish will pay for attorney fees for priests charged with embezzlement.

The bishop typically decides the status of a priest who is under investigation, or has been accused of a crime. Priests who are accused of crimes are generally suspended from their pastoral duties with pay during the investigation. Bishops may take more extraordinary measures when appropriate, depending on what is discovered during the investigation.

How are funds for Witness to Hope being handled?

Witness to Hope is an initiative of the Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Lansing. The diocesan finance office provides accounting and oversight services to the Catholic Foundation.

Thus, the internal controls and accounting standards followed by the diocesan finance office are in place with respect to the handling of Witness to Hope gifts and pledges. For the past several years, the diocese has posted audited financial statements to our diocesan website. The Catholic Foundation, newly created in 2016, will also undergo an audit which will include all receipts and disbursements related to Witness to Hope. This audit, too, will be publicly available. In addition, per campaign guidelines, an accountability oversight committee of local financial experts and Church leaders will review this financial reporting, especially as it pertains to receipts and disbursements of monies raised by Witness to Hope.

In terms of daily/weekly processing, pledge cards received at the parish are to remain sealed and stored in a secure place until the Witness to Hope parish campaign director visits the parish. Each director will visit each parish at least weekly to collect any pledges received. During these visits, the director and one member of the parish staff (assigned by the pastor) will open the pledges, prepare a report of these contents and then place all of these materials in a tamper-proof bank bag.

Together, they will sign and date the sealed bag’s exterior; and the director will transport the sealed money bag to the campaign office for processing.

All the parishes have now been through an internal audit process within the past five years.

What should a parishioner or finance council member do if they suspect parish funds are not being handled properly?

If you suspect illegal activity of any clergy or church worker: Call the police.

If you are suspicious about a financial matter involving any clergy or church worker/volunteer:

Call the Diocese of Lansing Financial Misconduct Hotline: 1-844-446-0009 or go to www.lighthouse-services.com/dioceseoflansing.

This anonymous hotline service is available to report any suspected misconduct by clergy or church employees, particularly related to concerns about financial misconduct.

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CREDITS

The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing JULY/AUGUST 2017 VOLUME 17: ISSUE 6

www.FAITHpub.com Most Rev. Earl Boyea PUBLISHER

Rev. Dwight Ezop

+

YEARS

ORDINATION 2017

AS A PRIEST FAITH’s founding editor FATHER CHARLES IRVIN

The Diocese of Lansing was blessed with two new priests THEOLOGY 101

What do you say when …

Family members claim religion doesn’t matter as long as you’re a good person?

FIND US ONLINE AT FAITHPUB.COM

EDITOR AND CHAIRMAN

CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH JESUS AND HIS CHURCH WWW.FAITHCATHOLIC.COM

Pope Francis waves as he leaves a special audience at the Vatican.

Patrick M. O’Brien PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

REUTERS

Elizabeth Martin Solsburg VICE PRESIDENT/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Ann Jacob MANAGING EDITOR

FAMILY IS A TREASURE

Cynthia Vandecar DIRECTOR OF PRODUCTION AND CUSTOMER SERVICE

Marybeth Hicks MARKETING DIRECTOR

Patrick Dally ART DIRECTOR

Jillane Job EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Jim Berlucchi | Doug Culp | Cari Ann DeLamielleure-Scott | Cynthia Kaan | Rev. Joseph Krupp | Dr. Cathleen McGreal | Rose Robertson | Dr. Manuel and Karee Santos | Sr. Ann Shields CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

POPE WATCH WHAT POPE FRANCIS HAS BEEN SAYING AND DOING RECENTLY

In an audience with members of the European Federation of Catholic Family Associations, Pope Francis commended the federation for its 20 years of service toward making sure that family is considered Europe’s “most precious treasure.”

The Holy Father went on to talk about the value of families and the role they play in society, saying that they make the world “more humane and more fraternal, where no one feels rejected or abandoned.”

Carlson Productions | Shane Folkertsma | Mike Frieseman | Tom Gennara | Sarah Moore Kuschell | James Luning | Gretchen Mathos | Don Quillan CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Bob Patten CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATOR

Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling FOUNDING PUBLISHER

Rev. Charles Irvin FOUNDING EDITOR For advertising information, contact Tom Gaskin Call 517.853.7648 or email tgaskin@faithcatholic.com For subscription information: Call 1.866.76.FAITH

FAITHTM (USPS 019993) is a publication of FAITH Catholic, Diocese of Lansing, 1500 E. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48906-5550. FAITHTM is a membership publication of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing and is published monthly except for February and August. To purchase a subscription, log on to FAITHmag.com. If you have a change of address, please contact your parish. Periodicals postage paid in Lansing, MI and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to FAITHTM, 1500 E. Saginaw St., Lansing MI 48906-5550. ©2017 FAITH Catholic. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Catholic.

In a homily in early June on a reading from the Acts of the Apostles, Pope Francis spoke of St. Paul’s passion for preaching, his strength when facing persecution and his devotion to a life of prayer. He wished that all Christians today might be given the grace to strive to imitate St. Paul’s strength, courage and perseverance.

strive r parents who “I thank God fo ing and keep mov to live in love y if they fall man forward, even e way.” times along th

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June 1, 2017

GETTY IMAGES

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ST. PAUL – ULTIMATE ‘ACTION MAN’

Learn more at www.dolcatholicschools.com SAINT OF THE MONTH

W 1:10)

HEN ST. PIUS X WAS NAMED POPE IN 1903, he used the words of St. Paul to state his most fervent desire: “to restore all things in Christ.” (Eph

How was this to be achieved? Through education – by teaching Christian

doctrine to the young and the old, to the rich and the poor. He felt religious devotion was devoid of meaning unless people understood their faith.

St. Pius X FEAST DAY: Aug. 21

St. Pius X was born Giuseppe Melchiorre Sarto in a small Italian town near Venice in 1835. He was the second of ten children in a poor family. He was able to obtain scholarships in order to attend seminary and become a priest. At his first parish, he organized a night school to educate adults, and he was known throughout his priesthood for traveling long distances, and spending long hours, in order to teach catechism to children, especially public school children who could not learn about the faith in school.

Inscription on his tomb As pontiff, he insisted that the at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome: clergy be properly trained. Only then “Born poor and humble of heart, could they lead the Church back Undaunted champion of the Catholic faith, to Christ, as he felt that modern Zealous to restore all things in Christ, interpretation of doctrine, secularism Crowned a holy life with a holy death." and general laxity had taken hold.

He promoted the daily reception of the Eucharist, which was not a common practice at the time. He once said: “Holy Communion is the shortest and safest way to Heaven. There are others: innocence, but that is for little children; penance, but we are afraid of it … the surest, easiest, shortest way is the Eucharist.”

He died in 1914, and was canonized 40 years later in 1954. St. Pius X is famous for the words written in his last will and testament: “I was born poor, I have lived poor, I wish to die poor.”

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Carlson Productions

WONDERING ABOUT

PRIESTHOOD? Please join us for our annual Priesthood Discernment Dinner

with Bishop Boyea

and overnight discernment retreat

with Father John Linden

SUNDAY, AUG. 20 AND OPTIONAL MONDAY, AUG. 21 AT BETHANY HOUSE

Check out our website at www.dioceseoflansing.org/vocations

Bishop Earl Boyea invites any man who is entering his junior year of high school and older to a Priesthood Discernment Dinner with him and many of the priests and seminarians in the Diocese of Lansing.

The day begins with a welcome at 3 p.m. and concludes with a cookout that wraps up around 6:30 p.m. Please invite your pastor to join you! (You also may register and join us for an overnight that concludes Monday, Aug. 21 at 1 p.m., which offers more engagement in discernment, including testimonies and talks from priests and seminarians).

For more details or registration information, please contact the Vocation Office at 517.342.2504 or ddellacqua@dioceseoflansing.org.

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