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THE MAGAZINE OF THE CATHOLIC DIOCESE OF LANSING

FAITH asked teens from around the diocese to tell us about their lives as members of parish communities.

Inside, we introduce you to some amazing, outstanding and quietly faithfUl teen members of our church.

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have a couple of friends – a husband and wife – who have a very supportive, loving relationship with their two sons. It has been fun for me to watch all of them (dad, mom and the two sons) grow during the years I have known them. One rule in their home has always been, “If you don’t want to know the answer, don’t ask the question.” In other words, they always strive to be very honest with one another. This family’s mind-set is, in large part, the very reason that they are so loving and supportive of one another.

They know they have the safety and support to always speak the truth to one another, even when that truth is not so easy to hear.

“If you don’t want to know the answer, don’t ask the question.” If we didn’t really want to know what young people are thinking about their experience of church these days, we probably shouldn’t have asked them. But I’m glad we did. The answers of many of them are truly inspiring. I wish that I had the same depth of faith and trust in God as some of the young people we profile in this annual teen edition. On the other hand, some of their answers reveal a profound challenge to those of us who have left the teen years behind. In many cases, the objections raised by some of the teens with whom we visited come down to adults, who can tend to say one thing and then do another. If there’s one thing that young people can sense all too easily, it’s when we adults are not being consistent. “Do as I say, not as I do” can only get us so far.

What message do we send young people if the hour we spend in Mass is the only hour we spend practicing the way of Christ? What’s a young person to think if they watch us inattentively going through the words and actions of the Mass – not participating in the full, active and conscious manner to which the Mass calls each of us? Should we genuinely be surprised when a young person holds us accountable when our words and actions do not correspond to one another? After all, who has the primary responsibility for forming children and young people in a life of faith?

An hour spent in the celebration of Mass, added to an hour spent in religious education, and perhaps another hour or two spent with the parish youth group, simply cannot outweigh the remaining 165 hours of opportunities to live our faith in any given week. Those few hours spent in a parish building or engaged in a parish activity can’t replace the countless hours of watching and learning in a kind of apprenticeship as trusted adults live and love their faith. At best, what we offer to our young people in our parishes is a support or an enhancement to what we hope is being lived, prayed and taught in the domestic church of the family. If the life of faith is not lived there in a way that is consistent, loving and supportive, there’s little hope that what we are able to offer on a parish level can ever replace it.

The good news is that, in many cases, families and parish communities are choosing to consistently and constantly live the message of the Gospels. In turn, this offers many young people the stable, faith-filled and supportive environment in which their young faith can grow and mature. The not-so-good news is that there is still more that we can do.

Just as young people learn from those who surround them in their communities of faith, so too, can we learn from them the vital importance of living our faith to the best of our ability, and with God’s grace, each and every moment of our lives. If we didn’t want to know that, we shouldn’t have asked the question.

And so our journey in FAITH continues.

If you don’t want to know the answer ...

What happens when you ask teens to be honest

– Fr. Dwight Ezop is editor of FAITH Magazine and pastor of the Catholic Community of St. Jude.

FAITH Magazine

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Liturgical Calendar: St. Gregory the Great, Pope and Doctor Sept. 3 | Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary S

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what you’ll get out of this issue in the know with Fr. Joe 6 Dear Fr. Joe: Where did we get the angel stories? – Father Joseph Krupp

parenting journey 11 What if you find out your teenager is having sex? An embarrassing moment – and time to talk.

– Dr. Cathleen McGreal

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spiritual fitness

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24 What am I going to do with my life?

– Father Bill Ashbaugh

worklife 29 I have no idea what I’m supposed to do. How do I pick a career? – Tim Ryan

last word 31 Will our teens be Catholic? – Pat Rinker

Mary Ann Martinez

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Eric Marquis

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David Martin

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Megyn Ellis

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Adam McGuire

A.J. Snay

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Will I stay Catholic?

A snapshot of teen faith today

Teen Issue t e e n e s s a y w i n n e r : The early Mass, where everybody knows your name Susie’s church used to be a lively bar. Find out how it still has a warm, welcoming feel – without the barstools.

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– Susie Skrownek

We profiled teens around the diocese who are active in their parishes. Find out why, and what they get out of parish life. And see what they have to say about their future in the church. – Bob Horning

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s p e c i a l r e p o r t What makes a parish a great place to be? As part of our continuing series, FAITH looks at the Parish Evaluation Inventory to see what makes a parish successful.

s t u d e n t magazines: Students at Father Gabriel Richard High School, Ann Arbor, designed catholic magazines and FAITH picked the best. Check them out here!

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Mary Sept. 8 | St. John Chrysostom, Bishop and Doctor Sept. 13 | Exaltation of the Holy Cross Sept. 14 | Our Lady of Sorrows Sept. 15 | St. Robert Bellarmine, Bishop and Doctor Sept. 17

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The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing

Most Reverend Carl F. Mengeling PUBLISHER

Rev. Charles Irvin FOUNDING EDITOR

September 2007 • Volume 8: Issue 7

Dear Editor: is our biggest problem young parents?

Rev. Dwight Ezop EDITOR IN CHIEF

Patrick M. O’Brien MANAGING EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Elizabeth Martin Solsburg EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Patrick Dally ART DIRECTOR/WEB DESIGNER

Jillane Job SUBSCRIPTIONS/SECRETARY

Rev. William Ashbaugh Michelle Sessions DiFranco Elizabeth Grodi Marybeth Hicks Shanon Hoffman Rev. Joseph Krupp Tom and JoAnne Fogle Bob Horning Cathleen McGreal Rick and Diane Peiffer Tim Ryan Lindsey Walter CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Derek Melot Margaret Perrone PROOFREADING

Tom Gennara Christine Jones James Luning (cover) Phillip Shippert CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Wayne Case Michael Eichhorn Mary Jo Gillilland Diane Nowak Margaret Perrone Rev. Bernard Reilly James Rhadigan Ricardo Rodriguez Dcn. David Rosenberg Rev. James Swiat Peter Wagner Sharon Wimple ADVISORY BOARD

FAITH Publishing Ser vice Rev. Dwight Ezop CHAIRMAN

Patrick M. O’Brien PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Enomhen Odigie Abby Wieber GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Dear Editor: Thank you for FAITH. I have recently read many wonderful and interesting stories. I want to comment on a statement I read recently: “Young adults, 18-30, rarely attend Mass.” …It seems to be a trend that we “lose” our children from age 16 to 30 …

[I think] a more immediate, rising problem is our young parents not having the deep understanding of our faith, sacraments and teachings of the church as we older parents have.

During my last three years of being a second-grade catechist, a number of parents … insisted that picture-taking, video-taking and other such things are OK [during first Communion Mass].

I … tried to get the parents to understand the reverence of first Communion – the connecting with Jesus that ... should be the focal point.

I believe that our fabric of faith has been torn … my educated guess is that the majority of parishioners that tithe … are the 50+ … group. Why is that?

I think it is because [they] take their responsibility to God and church more seriously. Our young parents need to be educated in responsibility .. to God, church, our faith.

50th Anniversary, celebration for Bishop Mengeling!

The bishop’s anniversary celebration will take place Oct. 16 at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, East Lansing. There will be Mass at 2 p.m. followed immediately by a reception. Please come and wish the bishop well in his recovery from cancer and thank him for 50 years of service to the church as an ordained priest.

Patricia Oliver SECRETARY

– Marie Wilson

InnerWorkings

Williamston

PRINT MANAGEMENT FAITHPublishingService.com FAITHTM (USPS 019993) is a publication of FAITH Publishing Service, Catholic Diocese of Lansing, 300 W. Ottawa, Lansing, MI 48933. 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 onto FAITHmag.com. If you have a change of address, please contact your parish. Periodicals postage paid at Lansing, MI or additional offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to FAITHTM, 209 Seymour Ave., Lansing, MI 48933 ©FAITH Publishing Service. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Publishing Service.

Subscribe online at www.FAITHmag.com FAITH Magazine

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We want to hear from you!

Tell us what you think. We want to hear your opinions – about articles in the magazine, happenings in our church or anything you want to share. Send e-mail to: esolsburg@ faithpublishingservice.com

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Or mail us a letter: Editor FAITH Magazine 209 Seymour Ave. Lansing, MI 48933 Please make sure to add a line granting us permission to print your letter or e-mail.

Your thoughts and ideas matter, please share them with us!

St. Januarius, Bishop and Martyr Sept. 19 | Sts. Andrew Kim Taegon, Priest and Paul Chong Hasang, Martyr and

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teen saint’s life was no bed of roses

“Why don’t you use your brain?”

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St. Thérèse of Lisieux Birthplace: Alencon, France Feast Day: Oct. 1 Patroness of Missionaries

here is something parents of teenagers sometimes say when faced with the reckless, thoughtless and self-absorbed behavior of our offspring.

It’s perhaps not the kindest thing we could say, but it turns out it’s entirely true.

What we say is: “For crying out loud, why don’t you use your brain?”

We pose this rhetorical question when our teens drive cars that have illuminated low-fuel warnings until the engine dies on the roadside, or when they leave expensive miniature electronic devices in the pockets of blue jeans headed for the washer.

We ask this question when our teens succumb to peer pressure, or lead a group of friends into a dangerous situation. We always ask it when the police are involved.

And of course, it’s the only thing to say when teens open their mouths and utter the unkind, insensitive yet routine

comments for which adolescents are well known, such as, “You’re such a jerk,” “You’re a moron,” and “I hate you” (a comment made all the more hurtful by the sound of a slamming door).

Well, it turns out “Why don’t you use your brain?” isn’t just a belittling, sarcastic, frustrated expression of parental indignation.

Separate studies by researchers at both the National Institutes for Health and the University College of London prove what parents have known for generations: Teens don’t use their brains.

Apparently, the part of the brain that inhibits risky behavior may not be fully developed until age 25. This explains the price of auto insurance.

– Marybeth Hicks

Find out more about Marybeth’s experiences with the brainless; visit www.FAITHmag.com.

Claim to Fame: The muchloved youngest daughter of a religious French family, Marie Francoise Thérèse Martin was born in 1873.

Even as a child, precocious Thérèse was aware of her spiritual vocation.

At age 14, she asked her widowed father to let her enter the cloistered order of Carmelites. Although her father agreed, the Carmelite superiors and the bishop insisted she wait. So, on a pilgrimage to the Vatican in 1887, Thérèse pleaded directly to Pope Leo XIII, begging him to allow her to enter the convent at age 15. Although impressed with her fervor, the pope advised patience, saying, “You shall enter if it be God’s will.” Nearly a year and many prayers later, she joined the order. She was named Sister Thérèse of the Infant Jesus; later “and of the Holy Face” was added.

What made her a saint? Sister Thérèse spent her days in penitence, meditation and work. In her autobiography, The Story of a Soul, she described herself as “the little flower of Jesus” in God’s garden of souls. As she reached her 20s, Thérèse desperately wanted to join the Carmelites in French Indo-China. Tragically, incurable tuberculosis dashed any chance for her to serve as a missionary. Instead, she counseled two missionaries, writing them often to offer spiritual encouragement.

How she died: As she lay dying in agonizing and constant pain at the age of 24, Thérèse could see the roses she loved blooming outside.

Best quote: Confident of God’s love, she promised, “After my death, I will let fall a shower of roses. I will spend my heaven doing good upon earth.” Through the years, some of Thérèse’s petitioners have said that they smell or see roses when their petitions are answered.

Prayer: O Thérèse of the Child Jesus, please pick for me a rose from the heavenly gardens and send it to me as a message of love. O Little Flower of Jesus, ask God to grant the favors I now place with confidence in your hands. St. Thérèse, help me to always believe as you did in God’s great love for me, so that I might imitate your Little Way each day.

Amen. – Jan Rynearson

tyr and their companions Sept. 20 | St. Matthew, Apostle, Evangelist Sept. 21 | Sts. Cosmas and Damian, Martyrs Sept. 26 | St. Vincent de Paul, Priest Sept. 27 | St. Wenceslaus, Martyr Sept. 28

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Dear Fr. Joe Where did we get all the angel stories?

College meals are generally unpopular with those who have to eat them – and sometimes with good reason.

“What kind of pie do you call this?” asked one student indignantly.

“What’s it taste like?” asked the cook.

“Glue!”

“Then it’s apple pie – the plum pie tastes like soap.”

Q:

A: FAITH Magazine

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The stories about Michael, Lucifer and the angels don’t seem to be in the Bible; where did we get them?

This question offers us a chance to see how the Catholic Church puts together much of its theology. For this article, I’m relying heavily on the Catholic Encyclopedia. It’s a great resource, and you can look at it on the Internet at www.newadvent.org.

I suggest the sections on Satan, St. Michael, St. Thomas Aquinas, sacred tradition, the church fathers and U of M Football. Well, maybe not that last one ...

Anyway, let’s get right to it.

Most Catholic theology can be traced to the Scripture and the commentaries of our great thinkers

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about those passages. I know I’ve typed a lot about this before, but to quote Father Isidore Mikulski (the king of the Q&A column), the Bible is the child, not the parent.

For Catholics, the Bible does not necessarily address every theological question, and we don’t believe God intended it to be used that way. Instead, God gave us the wisdom of our church leaders, who use sacred tradition and the great minds and hearts God gave them to guide us into truth.

It’s actually an easy idea to see when you think about it; you know how everyone is talking about the new “gospels” that keep popping up? Most of those have been around since the third and fourth century. So, the logical question is: “Who picked the four that we use and discarded the other bunch?” Our church leaders did, acting under the guidance of the

Holy Spirit and the teachings that were given to them by the earliest followers of Jesus. That’s true of a lot of our theology and a very important point for us Catholics.

So, when we ask what happened to the angels and how we know it, we start with the Bible, and then look at what God revealed to us when holy men and women pondered what the Bible said.

Let’s look to the Bible first. Here are some passages that will help us: By the envy of the Devil, death came into the world. – Wisdom 2:24 How have you fallen from the heavens, O morning star, son of the dawn! How are you cut down to the ground, you who mowed down the nations! You said in your heart: “I will scale the heavens; above the stars of God I will set up my throne; I will take my seat on the Mount of Assembly, in

St.Lawrence Ruiz and his companions, Martyrs Sept. 28 | Sts. Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, Archangels Sept. 29

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big one here; under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, St. Thomas used his massive intellect (I wish I knew that burden) and broke down how it all happened. Using the stories that the Bible gave us as a foundation, he The angels too, who did not keep built our current theological house to their own domain but deserted their of teachings on angels, demons, free proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal will and others. chains, in gloom, for the judgment of St. Anselm also asked a lot of the the great day. – Jude 1:6 tough questions in his pondering on these matters and gave For Catholics, us some really powerful ideas and about the sin of from it. we don’t believe God intended it to pride Church be used that way. councils and documents give Then war broke out in heaven; us a lot of wisdom on this, too. If Michael and his angels battled against you take a look at your catechism, the dragon. The dragon and its angels you’ll find footnotes that direct fought back, but they did not prevail you to documents dealing with and there was no longer any place for these issues. them in heaven. The huge dragon, the So, in the end, this question ancient serpent, who is called the Devil demonstrates how deeply interand Satan, who deceived the whole connected our faith is and how world, was thrown down to earth, and God calls us to use (in the words of its angels were thrown down with it.

Pope John Paul II) our “faith and – Revelation 12:7-9 reason” to grow in wisdom of God. Enjoy another day in God’s These are, obviously, just some of presence! – Father Joseph Krupp the passages that the church uses to teach us what happened. But I think Send your questions to: they give us a good foundation.

“In the Know with Fr. Joe” The next step is to look at who FAITH Magazine commented on these passages.

209 Seymour Ave. First, we can look at some individuLansing, MI 48933 al saints. St. Thomas Aquinas was a Or: JoeInBlack@priest.com

the Bible does not necessarily address every theological question,

Father Joe’s June column about mortal and venial sin generated some lively conversation. For further discussion, here are some relevant quotes from the Catechism of the Catholic Church: Anyone who is aware of having committed a mortal sin must not receive holy Communion, even if he experiences deep contrition, without having first received sacramental absolution, unless he has a grave reason for receiving Communion and there is no possibility of going to confession. (CCC1457) When it arises from a love by which God is loved above all else, contrition is called “perfect” (contrition of charity). Such contrition remits venial sins; it also obtains forgiveness of mortal sins if it includes the firm resolution to have recourse to sacramental confession as soon as possible. (CCC1452)

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What year did Mother Teresa die?

Founder of the Missionaries of Charity and winner of the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979, Mother Teresa died in Calcutta, India, on Sept. 5, WHAT YEAR? On this day, 102 passengers set sail from Plymouth, England, on a voyage to the New World. The travelers made it to Provincetown, Mass., in November and formed Plymouth Colony a month later. The Mayflower set sail in England on Sept.16, WHAT YEAR? “The writer’s only responsibility is to his art. He will be completely ruthless if he is a good one.” William Faulkner won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1949. He was born Sept. 25, WHAT YEAR? The marathon originated in Ancient Greece, when Phidippides ran from Marathon to Sparta, a 26-mile trip, in search of help against the Persian army. The marathon was born on Sept.

2, WHAT YEAR? Answers: 1997, 1620, 1897, 490 B.C.

the recesses of the North. I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will be like the Most High!” Yet down to the nether world you go to the recesses of the pit! – Isaiah 14: 12-15

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For the July This Month in History quiz, we inadvertently reprinted June’s answers. The correct answers to the July quiz are: 1821, 1701, 1865, 1741. FAITH regrets the error.

<1%

Adults under 25 give less than 1% of their income to charity.

(CARA, Fall 2006)

FAITH asks: How do you find the strength to be kind when you are having a bad day?

We asked sixth grade students in Mrs. Ball’s class at Most Holy Trinity School, “How do you find the strength to be kind when you are unhappy or having a bad day?”

Lee

Nick

Kayla

Lee, age 12 I find the strength to be kind to others through prayer with God. It is important to be kind to others because one day you will be in heaven with them and then you will have to be kind to them.

Nick, age 12 I think, “What would God do in this situation?”

So, I think that if God would do that, I should do it, too.

Kayla, age 12 When I am unhappy, my number one source of strength to be kind comes from God. Prayer really helps me out. Another source of strength comes from others – it’s amazing the difference a smile makes!

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The early Mass,where

The 2007 Father Charles Irvin Essay Contest Winner mention at the

Teen Issue FAITH Magazine

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Every year, FAITH awards a $1,000 scholarship to a highschool senior in our diocese, based on an essay on a topic related to life in the church. Our goal is to promote insightful thought and excellent writing,

8 September 2007 | www.FAITHmag.com

and to encourage careers in Catholic journalism. There are many ways to spread the good news of Jesus Christ, and good writing is one of them.

Last year’s essay, written by Katie Phelan, won an honorable

Catholic Press Association’s annual awards.

Congratulations, Katie, Father Charlie and congratulations to this year’s winner, Susie Skrownek.

By Susie Skrownek | Photography by Tom Gennara

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man walks into a bar. He plops onto a bar stool and orders a drink. Although the seats wobble and the wood of the bar is cracked and encrusted with ageold dirt, a romantic tune plays insistently in the background. “Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name!” The flashing sign outside the tavern might not say Cheers!, as it did in the popular television show, but universally, people gather in taverns to enjoy a drink after a day on the job.

Communities form at local pubs. Patrons may interact with each other, or they may sit quietly. After a time, the regulars expect to see each other when they enter the bar, and, whether they speak or stay silent, a fellowship is formed over their frothy drinks.

There once was a tavern in Lansing called The Maple Hill Inn. Like any other establishment, it was patronized by loyal customers. However, this bar was destined for a greater good. In 1949, Father Joseph E. Wieber led a team to reconstruct the Maple Hill Inn into Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. He became its first pastor and served a community of 200 parishioners.

Over time, the small community grew and now unites 1,500 families for prayer each weekend.

The parish of Immaculate Heart of Mary was once a bar ... The

building was converted from a place to share drinks to a place to share in the Spirit.

A girl walks into a church. It is 8 a.m.on a Sunday morning. She plops into a pew near the front of the church, between her father and her sister. Wiping sleep from her eyes, she scans the crowd.

To her surprise, she recognizes many people. This woman is sitting in the same place she did last week! That man sat near that same place, too. The girl even recalls a few names, planted in her memory by her mother.

From an early age, I noticed the regulars attending the early

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Sunday Mass with me. When the Mass time was changed to 7:45, we regulars only changed our alarm clocks, not our place and not our community. We expect to see each other early every Sunday morning to celebrate Christ’s resurrection together.

I enjoy Mass partially because I enjoy celebrating with the early Sunday congregation. Like Goldilocks sampling the wares of the three bears, I have tried attending other Masses and found them not to fit me as well. The midday Mass has too many families with children who are loud and demand Cheerios and coloring books. (I never needed to be occupied during Mass.) The youth Masses are too loud for me and the homilies too simple. The music is tailored to the younger generation – my generation – and thus the Mass features contemporary Christian rock rather than traditional church hymns. The homilies speak to a youthful audience, too. So, for me, the earliest morning liturgy is just right.

I know the community and the community knows me. We have created a fellowship through the celebration of the Mass, generally excluding crayons and skits to promote clearer understanding.

The early Mass has advanced my faith because I appreciate the traditional Sunday liturgy.

My membership in my parish community also inspires me to good works. I have been taught to live in the example of the saints. However, I strive to live the example of the living saints I see every week. Many parishioners serve at the prisons, witnessing to inmates who cannot attend Mass. I recognize those who bring Communion to the shut-ins who are also unable to be with us on Sunday morning. My parish also began a rosary-making ministry many years ago. The rosary makers often have bake sales after Mass to raise funds to support their outreaches. These examples of living sainthood inspired me to put my faith into action. I started making rosaries with the rosary makers several years ago. I enjoy this because it connects me to my parish community, which funds the rosary supplies; to the rosary makers of IHM, and to the Catholic community abroad that receives the rosaries we distribute. Knowing that I am part of a worldwide communion motivates me to continue my good works through the resources of my parish community.

The parish of Immaculate Heart of Mary was once a bar. People used to gather there to share drinks after a day of hard work.

Now, people gather to share in communion with the Catholic Church. The building was converted from a place to share drinks to a place to share in the Spirit.

Now, my parish is a welcoming place, helping to guide me on my journey to holiness. In union with a community of believers, I have learned a passion for the Mass. I look forward to gathering with my fellow parishioners on Sundays.

My parish provokes me not only to spirituality, but to good works as well. The members of Immaculate Heart of Mary ensure that I enjoy going “where everybody knows my name” – my parish, full of enduring faith.

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he students in Carolyn Kitz’s theology classes at Father Gabriel Richard High School, Ann Arbor, learned a lot about their faith this year, and a little about Catholic publishing – with some help from FAITH. Their assignment was to write and design magazines that taught readers about Catholicism.

The editors and art director of FAITH talked to

FAITH editors picked the best FAITH Magazine

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Best overall magazine, Best editorial, Best Interview

Bella:

by Anna Schork, Bethie Loveland, Julia Stella, Sarah Ciolek and Adriana Collins

If we created a Catholic magazine ...

them about what makes a good magazine – and when they were finished, we awarded prizes to those we thought were the best.

Runnerup: Best overall magazine

Ahead of His Time: by Brittany Williams, Laura Thelen, Corinne Kuclo and Mary Taylor

Best magazine design, Best cover

Here’s a quick look at some great magazines from the future writers and designers of the Catholic press.

Prayer Magazine:

by Leah Askew, Clayton Yochum and Angela Stier

Best ad

Girls!!!:

by Krista Shelcusky, Jessica LaFave and Kathleen Dunleavy

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What if you find out your teenager is having sex?

An embarrassing moment – and time to talk

iStockphoto.com

From Bella (left to right): Anna Schork, Bethie Loveland, Sarah Ciolek, Julia Stella, Adriana Collins

Clarify the means of feedback so that you and the other parents communicate.

Best editorial: Bethie Loveland

Best Interview: Sarah Ciolek

he wooden privacy fence surrounding my friend’s back yard sometimes corrals a dog’s happy explorations. It also creates a quiet retreat area for reading. Since my friend lives between a high school and a university, it is a great gathering spot for celebrations associated with school events. Imagine my friend’s surprise one evening to discover that an adolescent couple had decided the fence also provided just the right amount of privacy for sex. In this case, the teens were strangers. But what if parents walked in on their own teen having sex?

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Have the teens talk to you – now!

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Have the couple get dressed – and then it’s time to talk. Don’t wait. Ask them about the decisions that led to this point. How did this fit into their relationship at this time? What discussions did they have about pregnancy? About sexually transmitted diseases? Try not to dominate the conversation, so that you can learn about their views. If they mention love, then acknowledge that love is powerful but its physical expression carries responsibilities. Sex has different meanings to different individuals as well.

Some teens view sex more as recreation than as an expression of intimacy or romance. Share your values – that sex needs to be saved for marriage and that marriage is a spiritual as well as physical relationship.

Self-mastery is a process that occurs throughout life.

From Ahead of His Time (left to right): Corinne Kuclo, Laura Thelen, Mary Taylor

Our church acknowledges that adolescents are apprentices in learning to deal with healthy sexual expression.

“Chastity includes an apprenticeship in self-mastery which is a training in human freedom. … Self-mastery is a long and exacting work. One can never consider it acquired once and for all. It presupposes renewed effort at all stages of life. The effort required can be more intense in certain periods, such as when the personality is being formed during childhood and adolescence.” (CCC #2339, 2342) One sexually active relationship doesn’t commit a teen to sex in future relationships.

Let the other parents know.

From Prayer Magazine (left to right): Lea Askew, Clayton Yochum

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The teens can help decide how to inform the other parents.

Clarify the means of feedback so that you and the other parents communicate. Adults often picture teen sex as something that occurs in the back seat of a car, but contemporary adolescents often have sex in their own homes or the home of a friend after school. Make sure that rules are clearly established for the future. Research shows that first intercourse peaks with periods of less supervision: summer vacation (especially June) and Christmas vacation.

Remember that sexual passion is God’s idea! But sexuality is spiritual as well as physical; “… not … merely biological, but concerns the innermost being of the human person. ...”

(CCC #2361) – Dr. Cathleen McGreal

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what in the world? the top-10 Catholic News events this month

1

Pope Benedict proclaims June 2008 - June 2009 to be the year of St. Paul. The year is in celebration of the 2,000th anniversary of saint’s birth.

2

President Bush vetoed the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2007. Bush said, “Our conscience calls us to pursue the possibilities of science in a manner that respects human dignity and upholds our moral values.”

3

More than 120,000 people have already registered for next year’s World Youth Day. The event will be held July 15-18, 2008 in Sydney, Australia.

4

Benedict XVI re-established the requirements for electing a pope. A two-thirds majority of cardinal-electoral votes will always be required for the election of a pope.

5

The Vatican Library is to be closed for a threeyear restoration project. Experts have determined that the restoration of the 16th century building can no longer be delayed. The library is home to the most ancient known manuscript of the Bible, the Codex Vaticanus.

6

U.S. bishops support Senate Resolution 224 to advance the peace process. A two-state solution and an end to violence is the way forward for Israelis and Palestinians, say U.S. bishops.

7

The Chinese government is ready for “constructive dialogue” with the Vatican. This statement came after the publication of Benedict XVI’s letter to Catholics in that country. In his letter, the pope expressed his love for and closeness to Chinese Catholics and his support in the tribulations they frequently face.

8

U.S. bishops will give $628,000 to 51 programs benefiting the church in Africa. The gifts will support pastoral activities including formation of seminarians and clergy, Catholic education, youth ministry, catechesis and social communications.

9

Pope Benedict urges G-8 Summit leaders to give aid to the neediest countries. The pope issued an appeal to the leaders participating in the G-8 summit to keep their promises to fight against poverty, particularly through education and especially in Africa.

10

The Vatican has awarded the highest medal for work in health care. Bishop Thomas Williams received the Good Samaritan medal for his care and love for the sick.

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Archdiocese of Los Angeles pays out $660 million to sexual abuse victims

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n July 15, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles announced the largest church settlement in sexual abuse lawsuits to date, agreeing to pay a total of $660 million to more than 500 alleged victims.

Los Angeles Cardinal Roger Mahony apologized to the victims in a statement on Monday, “I again extend my personal apology to victims who suffered sexual abuse by clergy and repeat again my steadfast commitment to continuing all of the abuse prevention programs and policies currently in force in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.”

The compensation offered by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles to victims of pedophilia is proof of the church’s efforts to fight these crimes, says a Vatican spokesman.

Father Federico Lombardi, director of the Vatican press office, explained that the settlement is

also a guarantee of commitment to eliminate such crimes.

“The Archdiocese of Los Angeles’ settleCardinal Mahony ment for a large number of cases of sexual abuse by priests, religious and lay members of the archdiocese in the last few decades is a story that understandably received a lot of attention because of the number of cases involved as well as the sum of the settlement,” Father Lombardi said.

Father Lombardi spoke of the attitude the church takes regard-

Something new, something old n July 7, Pope Benedict XVI published the Apostolic Letter, Summorum Pontificum, which permits, in some communities, the use of the liturgical books issued in 1962. Through this, he hopes to affect an “interior reconciliation in the heart of the church” with those small groups of the faithful who have demonstrated a continual attachment to pre-conciliar liturgical forms.

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The older form of the Mass is commonly called the Tridentine Pope Benedict XVI Mass (an adjective for “Trent”). The Roman Missal of Pope Pius V first appeared in 1570 and was written in Latin. The last edition was published in 1962 by Blessed John XXIII. Vatican II called for the renewal of the liturgical rites and books,

12 September 2007 | www.FAITHmag.com 7/31/07 3:04:10 PM

ing the crime of sexual abuse, “Cardinal Mahony explained – as John Paul II and Benedict XVI have said many times – that the church is evidently and above all saddened by the suffering of the victims and their families, for the harm caused by the grave and inexcusable behavior of some of its members, and is firm in its resolve to avoid future vile acts of this kind.

“The agreement, and the sacrifice it involves, are also a sign of this resolve, of the decision to close a sorrowful chapter in history and to look forward in terms of prevention and the establishment of a secure environment for children and young people in all areas of the church’s pastoral work.”

The Vatican spokesman affirmed that other institutions should take needed steps to prevent pedophilia, “given the fact that the problem of the abuse of childhood and its adequate protection certainly does not regard only the church, but also many other institutions.”

What is the Diocese of Lansing doing to protect our children?

Imagine combining the populations of Williamston, Chelsea, Durand and Clark Lake – roughly 13,000 people – and you’ll envision the total number of adults who have been educated by the Diocese of Lansing to protect God’s children.

“That’s a lot of people,” says Sally Ellis, coordinator of Safe Environment programs for the Diocese of Lansing.

VIRTUS: Protecting God’s Children was adopted by the diocese as the official program to ensure safe environments for the children in the church’s custody, whether for school, religious education, youth groups, choirs or other enrichment programs.

Every adult, including all clergy and religious persons, full and part-time employees, unpaid interns, and parent volunteers must participate in a VIRTUS training session.

The diocese also has sought to assist parents in educating their children on “touching safety” by providing materials to guide conversations that take place in the home. In addition, the diocese requires a curriculumbased program for Catholic schools and religious education programs to augment the messages being taught

utilizing the language of the people. A new Roman Missal was promulgated by Pope Paul VI in 1969. It was translated into hundreds of languages – including Regardless of the liturgiEnglish, Spanish, Chinese, cal reforms, Vietnamese and Polish. RuIt was brics changed, too, including and remains a celebrathe fact that the tion in which the mystery priest faced his of salvation is accomcongregation.

Regardless plished. (CCC 1332) of the liturgical forms, the substance of the Mass never changed. It was and remains a celebration in which the mystery of salvation is accomplished (CCC 1332).

the substance of the Mass never changed.

– ZENIT and the USCCB contributed to this story

See the accompanying sidebar for some differences between the extraordinary form and the ordinary form of the Mass.

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Church workers attend training for abuse prevention, detection by parents, empowering children to avoid victimization. “This is not a sex education class,” stresses Ellis, “rather, it’s empowerment training for children.

They need to know how an abusive adult tries to manipulate and threaten a child to keep silent. This is how predators are able to operate.”

The Diocese of Lansing also ensures safe environments for children by conducting background checks on any adult who may play a role that includes extended contact with children.

Background checks are done on all employees, as well as parents and other volunteers who may have four or more contact hours with minors per month. “The vast majority of background checks show that the folks who seek out these roles are good people without any history of problems,” Ellis says. “However, we have occasionally learned things that were cause for concern, and if a background check found even one potential predator, all of them would be worth the time and effort.”

VIRTUS: Protecting God’s Children was developed in 1998, several years before the sex abuse scandal was uncovered.

It was created by the National Catholic Risk Retention Group with the counsel of many child abuse prevention experts. The name VIRTUS derives from Latin and means valor, moral strength, excellence and worth, words that define a way of life for those who want to live with integrity.

Tridentine Mass (Pre-Vatican II) Current Mass (Post-Vatican II) Uses 1% of Old Testament

Uses 14% of Old Testament

Uses 17% of New Testament

Uses 71% of New Testament

Preserves prayers and rites used in 1570 with some devotional adaptations

Simplifies prayers and restores rites in light of contemporary research of ancient forms

Begins with prayers at the foot of the altar prayed privately by priest and server

Introductory rites include hymn, greeting, penitential rite, Gloria and opening prayer

One eucharistic prayer: The Roman Canon

10 eucharistic prayers, based on ancient texts and new compositions.

The first is the Roman Canon

Faithful receive Communion in the form of the host alone

Permits the distribution of holy Communion under both species

Last Gospel (John 1:1-18) and Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel included in the closing rite

Concluding rite includes a blessing and dismissal

Only clerics or altar boys perform liturgical tasks

Restores lay liturgical ministries and encourages careful distinction of roles

Choir or professional singers perform difficult settings of music; some Latin responses chanted by the assembly

Assembly participates fully with acclamations, processional songs, psalms, hymns and chants in their language

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J. Luning

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Mary Ann Martinez (16, junior) St. Mary, Adrian Two years ago, I was getting bad grades in school, disobeying my parents, making bad decisions. I would probably have been suspended from school if I continued that way. But going back to church regularly and working on my relationship with my mother (the toughest thing I’ve ever had to do in my life) made a big difference. It was tough for her, too.

I couldn’t understand why this We both had to persevere. would happen, Now we talk a But I know that lot about everyeverything has a purpose. thing, including church and the retreats I go on with her or with other youth. My mother has helped me learn right from wrong. I would like to be able to imitate her spirit, which is always happy, even in difficulties. And her toughness. She never gives up. She has even gone to school to learn English. When her doctors said she needed surgery in order to be able to walk again, but that she only had

and at first was angry with God.

J. Luning

What do teens say about the church?

Teen Issue

We asked teens in the diocese how they felt about the church and their parishes. We got some honest and surprising answers.

a 10 percent chance of success, she didn’t waver.

Fortunately, the operation was successful. I definitely experienced the presence of God in that situation.

I rarely prayed before we started going to Mass every week. Now I pray while walking home from school, before a test, before and after soccer games, for family or friends having problems. Also, I feel closer to God, I’m happier and I smile a lot. It’s amazing how much a smile can brighten someone else’s day and turn it around. People like to be noticed and loved.

Friends at school think it’s cool that I’m involved in my faith because they know it has helped me stay out of trouble. In fact, I invited someone to the living Stations of the Cross, which I had a part in, and he said he would come. Another friend who hasn’t been going to church has decided to come back. When they see the change in me and I tell them what caused it, they want to come.

More often now, my friends will ask me for advice, or just want me to listen to them. The one thing I want others to know about Jesus is that he loves them no matter what. We are God’s children and he will always be there for us.

My biggest disappointment was when I hurt my ankle before our first soccer game. At the emergency room, they told me I wouldn’t be able to play again this season, but now it looks like I will only miss one month. I couldn’t understand why this would happen, and, at first, was angry with God. But I know that everything has a purpose.

Three other girls and I do a liturgical dance on the Sunday nearest the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe in December. It is a neat way to honor and serve her.

We also dance for the mothers at a party for them on Mother’s Day. Once a month, my sister and I baby-sit for a parish event so the parents can enjoy themselves without their young children. I try to be involved in the parish because a lot of younger girls look up to me and the other older girls. That makes me feel good, and perhaps they will follow in my footsteps by being involved. Like at the living Stations of the Cross, they see us when we are up front showing what happened to Jesus. Maybe that is why my favorite movie is The Passion of the Christ. When I cry through it, I know I’m crying for a good reason.

I plan on becoming a pediatrician or a nurse. I like working with kids, and, since I am bilingual, I will be able to help parents who aren’t when I am working with their children.

“Before I was involved in my parish, I did not really view the church as a community.

I went to Mass on Sundays …

Now I recognize that the reason my parish did not feel like a community was because I was not contributing to the parish. I was missing out on an important aspect of parish life without

even realizing it.”

T.P.

“I have probably done everything I could to not let my voice be heard or my presence known at my parish. What may be surprising is that I feel this lack of involvement has brought me closer to God … Even going to Mass usually ends up seeming

By Bob Horning | Photography by Jim Luning/Christine Jones

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Eric Marquis St. Patrick, Brighton (15, sophomore) When the doctor told me last fall that I had a heart condition, my reaction was, “Why is this happening to me?” Sports were my life and now I wouldn’t be able to play. As I turned to God, I have grown closer to him, pray more and found out that he is always there for me. Sports were over, but God has opened up other doors, like piano, guitar, youth group and choir. Now, my life revolves around music and my parish, where I serve in the youth group council, on retreats and as an usher. Church is fun for me – I’m learning more who I am. I can help others who are going through tough times, and I get to hang out with other kids.

When the doctor told me a last fall that I had a heart condition, my reaction was, “Why is this C. Jones

happening to me?”

We asked teens from around the diocese to tell us about their lives as members of parish communities. Here, we introduce you to some amazing, outstanding and quietly faithful teen members of our church.

Nicole Smith Immaculate Conception, Milan (16, junior) Some of my non-Catholic friends are at least thinking like a bit of a chore.” R.L. “ … when my little sister was diagnosed with a very rare, non-curable … disease, I experienced the impact a parish community can have. Every night, a different parishioner would bring over a meal for me and my family to eat. Some of these people I had never met FAITH Magazine

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about coming to church. Those who don’t believe he exists, I tell them about the miracles he has done. I am sure I will still be a Catholic in 10 years, since Catholicism has brought me closer to God and because I believe what it teaches more than what other religions teach. Besides, it’s

before in my life. … After seeing how the community came together and rallied to help my little sister, I soon realized … that this is what we were called on to do. We are called to help those in need in their times of despair.” D.G. “My parish community is pretty dry and dull. There are a few

the only church started by Jesus.

Kim Hagadorn St. John, Howell (17, senior) I am an extraordinary minister of holy Communion, teach first-grade catechism, attended Diocesan Youth Leadership Camp (DYLC) and March for Life in Washington, D.C., helped with

% of Protestant teens say religion is “the most influential part of their lives.”

events that occur, yet still nothing spiritually enhancing. Let’s just say that there is no sense of community anywhere that I’m a part of.” M.P.

% of Catholic teens say religion is “the most influential part of their lives.”

“It took me a while to appreciate that people, who I don’t necessarily know or talk to, care about me. … We are all a part of the

41 25

16 September 2007 | www.FAITHmag.com 7/31/07 3:05:16 PM

David Martin St. Mary, Chelsea (16, sophomore)

Veronica Burt St. Mary Magdalen, Brighton (15, sophomore)

community of Jesus … I can be part of the church community. I can pray for those who need it. I can help someone out in a tough situation… But it is a choice. You have to choose if you want to be a part of the community.” A.M. “Church no longer interests me because I do not wish to have

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Seven years ago, when my sister died in an auto accident, I was furious at God and heartbroken. However, I came to realize that God has a special plan for everyone, and I experienced his presence and love through the support of friends and family.

One way I want to imitate Jesus is by not holding grudges or retaliating when people act like jerks. I have a hard time doing that.

I appreciate my parents putting money into allowing us to play sports, and coming to watch when possible. I respect them a lot, and try not to disappoint or disobey them.

I am happiest when I succeed in something, like a test, or do my best in sports.

My favorite movie is Casino Royale because it has lots of action, and shows the human side of James Bond.

However, I came to realize that God has a special plan for everyone.

C. Jones

I have been an altar server for five years, I help with eighth-grade catechism and with the middle school youth group.

Though I enjoy my friends, I’m

Seven years ago, when my sister died in an auto accident, I was furious at God, and heartbroken.

C. Jones

C. Jones

the “30 Hour Famine” the past three years to raise money to feed the poor, play flute in the highschool band and work part-time.

Being so involved keeps me from doing wasteful things.

Some youth are perceived as being lazy – I don’t want to be seen that way.

I invited a friend at school to youth group. He was baptized at the Easter vigil this year. He and his family were both antiCatholic before. I have also been working on my best friend for two years. At first she was angry, now she has progressed to just being indifferent.

Teaching catechism continually reminds me of the basics of our faith, and helps me learn more when I have to find an answer to a question from the kids.

I have always wanted to be like my mom, who teaches catechism to second-graders. She also played in the band.

I am a happy person, hyper, off the wall usually and the loudest in my youth group. I can still study enough, though, to get decent grades.

views forced upon me that are not my own. If I want to attend Mass, it will be my own decision, for myself – not because someone is making me.” B.F.

abandoning the 2,000-year-old roots and principles that have guided it all along. Is this the reason why I … have lost a portion of my faith in Catholicism?” E.L.

youth group in eighth grade, and it was wonderful. I learned more about the people in my parish.

We were now friends instead of acquaintances, which was just what I wanted.” A.P.

“The church is allowing its community to disintegrate, unknowingly giving in to the individualistic culture of today’s world and

“To have a comfortable community, don’t just restrict the community to just the Mass once a week. I started going to the …

“Outside of confirmation, I have not had any real involvement with the parish since I was

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Megyn Ellis St. John, Fenton (18, college freshman) My relationship with God became closer as a result of my grandmother dying a year ago. She was my best friend, so it was a hard time. I turned to God more because people can only help so much. I have found that three things help me get closer to God – Mass, doing activities that help others and praying in my spare time.

I especially felt God’s presence during our youth group’s spring mission trip to Kentucky for Habitat for Humanity. Seeing the new homeowner so joyous that we were helping her made me feel great, knowing that we were doing God’s work.

I will be attending Northern Michigan University this fall to study secondary education. One of my teachers had a big influence on me, and I want to impact students in the same way, making learning fun and using new techniques.

I have found that three things help me get closer to God – Mass, doing

activities that help others and praying in my spare time. younger. … sports and other activities took over and I lost interest.” A.Y. “The people in church simply move through Communion and prayers in a daze, completing the service in a fog, all the while believing that they somehow now possess holy FAITH Magazine

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qualities. … Often people will laugh if they hear someone miss a word or say a wrong phrase.

This is the most disgusting aspect of this ridiculous repetition …” G.F.

% of Protestant teens say their religious beliefs are very important to them.

“My parish has always been there for my family… When my dad had his first heart attack,

% of Catholic teens say their religious beliefs are very important to them.

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my parish prayed for him; and several members of the clergy also came to the hospital to visit him. Many of my parish’s parishioners also prayed for him.

Whenever I was in the hospital, my parish was also there for me.

My parish kept me in their prayers and many of the clergy came to visit me. Whatever the situation, my parish is always there to lend

18 September 2007 | www.FAITHmag.com 7/31/07 3:06:11 PM

happiest when I am in my room by myself. I read novels, write poetry or write in my journal and listen to music. I also crochet at home or in the car, mostly scarves or hats that I give to my family and friends.

When I’m facing an obstacle or decision, I think over my options for dealing with it, then pick the best one. I sometimes ask for advice from my sister; she’s 26.

I would like to be an author or an elementary school teacher. Kids are always themselves and don’t worry about what others think, so they are fun to be with.

Veronica is my favorite saint.

I’ve been told her story from the Stations of the Cross since I was a kid, of how Jesus’ impression appeared on the cloth that she wiped his face with.

Evan Miles

C. Jones

Mark Smith St. Mary, Chelsea (16, junior)

wrong. They have confidence in my character and intelligence to the point that if I do something wrong, I will realize it, take my punishment and won’t do the same thing again.

Jacob Kanitz Immaculate Conception, Milan (17, senior) Sleeping under the stars with almost 2 million people at World Youth Day in Germany helped me see the church as one big, happy family, at peace. I met tons of people.

And after DYLC, I opened up more emotionally, so now I can talk to anyone about God. Friends come to me now with their problems because I’m free to talk about mine.

My biggest joys are my friends, like those at youth group; running – I run varsity cross country and track; and writing. I started writing short stories in first grade, As teens, we are searching for our idenand poetry in eighth tity and discovering our interests. grade. It’s a great way and you don’t to express myself. I plan feel a need to follow the crowd. on having a career as a writer.

We do a lot of things at youth What I like most about being group like work at soup kitchens, Catholic are the beliefs that make Easter baskets for the elgo along with it, beliefs that I derly, make blankets for Hurricane would still hold even if I weren’t Katrina victims – little things to Catholic. Being opposed to help the world. abortion is a good example. I am Being an altar server for seven very pro-life. years, and an extraordinary minThe best thing my parents ister, allows me to help the priest have done for me is to tell me and to serve the body and blood of what the rules are. They let me Christ. God hasn’t called me to be a do what I want as long as it’s not priest, but if he does, I’m willing.

Once you figure that out, you are free to be your best self,

St. Patrick, Brighton (15, sophomore) As teens, we are searching for our identity and discovering our interests.

Once you figure that out, you are free to be your best self, and you don’t feel a need to follow the crowd. It seems that you find your real friends then, too, because you attract people with similar likes. Being in youth group has helped me with that.

We don’t judge one another; we try to love and respect each other.

I am outgoing. When I am

a hand to anyone in need.” L.V.

condemned at school for my faith, sometimes I walk away; other times I stand up and ask them why they are criticizing something that has been good for me. I feel bad that they are missing out.

My favorite book is The Lord of the Rings. My brother and dad and I read them together. I would love to have an adventure like that.

one.” A.H.

of. …They taught about God in a whole new way. I began to want to go to church again … I have been going … for almost two years. My faith has never been stronger.” K.C.

contact with in my church … they have definitely changed my overall views. In my case, the foundation for my faith was built by others, and now I have a solid place to stand.” K.E.

“One weekend, my mom and I decided to try this new [Protestant] church we had heard

“I am indeed impressed with all the nice and genuine people I have come into

“I used to like [my parish] a lot. But then the priest switched churches. The new one was not

“I am not considered a religious person, nor do I consider myself

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as good and funny as the last one. And the old priest moved to a far-away church.” P.M. “I do believe in a god, but not quite the Catholic version of God. Meaning that I know there must be some creator but I cannot even begin to know what he, she or it could possibly be

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Katy Martin St. Mary, Chelsea (17, senior) I am an extraordinary minister of holy Communion, teach catechism to kindergarteners (my younger brother helps me) and am in youth group. At school, I run track and cross country, play volleyball and was vice president of the junior class. In the spare time I have, I like to hang out with friends and read teen romance novels.

My relationship with God is changing from being a routine I grew up with, to freely choosing to believe, to pray and to go to Mass.

Kevin Stevens

My biggest hero is my grandmother. She never swears, she goes to church during the week, seems to know everyone in Jackson and is always nice. She is the perfect example of class.

Before bed every night, I try to pray. Sometimes during the day I lose track of God, even though he should be the No. 1 priority. I try to imitate Jesus in that he never gave into temptation. I would like to get better at that.

The time I felt closest to God was at Salesian leadership camp. One night, after meditating on a parable, we lit candles and said we wanted to live like Jesus as a Salesian leader.

It was very moving.

I try to stay active by playing varsity sports and spending time at the like. This was a big step forward in my faith life because it meant that I went from partial belief in a Catholic version of God to a complete belief in the existence of a god.” J.S. “Reconnecting with my parish has to be one of the best decisions I have ever made. My FAITH Magazine

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C. Jones

Our Lady of Fatima, Michigan Center (17, senior)

love for Jesus has grown tremendously…” K.F. “My education at a Catholic school has taught me the importance of religion, even for us non-believers. It has brought me on an incredible ‘spiritual journey,’ allowing me to greatly mature.” C.M.

% of Protestant teens are in church in any

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given week.

% of Catholic teens are in church in any

given week.

“The parish … epitomizes the meaning of a parish family. Not only because a majority of my family belongs to the parish, but because everyone there loves and knows each other as family. Everyone shares happy times with the parish, prays at sad times together and cares about the other people of the parish with their whole hearts.” L.F.

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Adam McGuire Sts. Charles and Helena, Clio (18, graduated) I have been so busy with school, church and all my other activities that my parents have hardly seen me for a year. Still, they have been there for me and support me in all I do.

At church, I have been on youth group planning teams, and I was student council president at Clio High School during my senior year. I liked being able to plan big, enjoyable events for the students so that school wasn’t all classes and bookwork. We also sponsored the 5K Dream Run for the community and raised $1,000 for a veterans’ memorial.

I’ve been in the National Honor Society for two years, the yearbook video crew for two years and a student representative to the school board for two years.

A lot of my time has been spent working with the Invisible Children’s Foundation. In Northern Uganda, the Lord’s Resistance Army kidnaps kids, ages 6-14, from towns and villages in order to build up their army in hopes of overthrowing the government. The kids are desensitized – sometimes raped – and brainwashed, then sent back into their home towns to kidnap more kids. ICF was started in 2003 by three college students to bring attention to the situation.

We are so lucky in America with what we have. When the movie the There are so many problems in the students made showed kids in Uganda walking into the city every night world that to sleep (literally on top of each other) in a community center to avoid being kidnaped, a few of us felt obligated and inspired to get involved.

In May 2006, we put on a concert at the Clio Amphitheatre, featuring I want to be able seven bands. We raised $2,700, which goes to help promote awareness, to inspire others to get involved as for education and jobs in Uganda, and to pressure governments and the I was inspired.

United Nations to fight the problem. I would like to go to Uganda on a two-week mission trip to learn more and to help out.

When people read this, I expect to be at the University of Michigan studying clinical psychology. I am fascinated by how our minds work, and why we do what we do. I want to be able to listen to people and help them.

I also plan to take classes in motivational speaking. God has given me gifts of leadership and organization, with the ability to handle a lot of tasks at once. There are so many problems in the world that I feel it is my duty to help as much as possible with my gifts. I want to be able to inspire others to get involved as I was inspired.

My faith has grown throughout high school. At first, I was content to know that God was there.

Through youth group and our annual retreats, it was like God was smacking me in the face to have a more intimate relationship. I pray every night now, and try to include him in everything I do; and I talk to him during the day. I have been so blessed with amazing friends, family and opportunities that I know faith has to be a large part of my life.

My religious and non-religious friends accept and respect my faith, and some even admire it.

Occasionally, they will ask questions. I don’t preach to them, though I have dragged a few to our retreats. Afterwards, some responses were that they would never drink or smoke again. It’s nice to know I had a part in that.

If I could tell younger people something, it would be that in high school, you don’t need to give in to the pressures of conformity, sex, drugs and alcohol. There’s no need for any of those things. Why hurt yourself and others, and push yourself away from God? Youth who have faith, especially, should let it be a big part of their life and not be afraid to show it. Don’t get sucked into a bad crowd. Resist the peer pressure to do so. It’s O.K. to be your own person.

I feel it is my duty to help as much as possible with my gifts.

“I cannot think of a communal circumstance that affected my life from church.” K.C. “Catholicism is full of love; it is love.

The Catholic community embraces its members with open arms and forms a true church community. When

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my Catholic classmates began preparing for confirmation, I approached my theology teacher and asked her if I could join the Catholic Church. … I knew that joining the Catholic Church was what God wanted for me.” M.C. “… I have always felt that my faith has been more forced than

voluntary. … Because of my doubts, I have often chosen not to be an active member of my parish.

In the times I have stepped up, the action was more than likely mandated by an adult or I did the duty to fulfill a requirement. Whether it is because my faith is weakened or that my family together has often taken a backseat in the parish community, being a part of the

parish has had little to do with my faith journey.” K.C. “I … realized that I disagreed … with both the theological doctrines and the social teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. The more I went to Mass, the more certain I became that I could not accept Catholicism as

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A.J. Snay Immaculate Heart of Mary, Lansing (16, junior) Whenever I see a priest, I see a joyful person who is available for other people. I was 12 or 13 when I first thought about the priesthood. One of the guys who helped at our religious education class kept telling me I would make a good priest. When others told me the same thing, I took it as the Lord speaking to me.

So I am extremely serious about it now. I can’t think of anything I would rather do. I can’t imagine life without church every day, being close to Christ and helping others.

For five years I have been an altar server. I am also on the core team of Life Teen, and help with Edge through skits, witness, and talks as part of the catechism for middleschoolers. I love working with those kids.

Church is like my home away from home.

It’s part of me, although it wasn’t always that way.

When my older sister became enthused about God through being involved in youth group, I followed her. Soon my whole family was attending church regularly.

Then I went to DYLC, which was an amazing experience – hard work, but a whole week of learning to be a leader and the chance to form friendships that will last a lifetime.

I think most youth are looking for fun and a good life.

Lately, though, it seems that more, both Christians and non-believers, are looking for a deeper relationship with truth. … After a great deal of reading, reasoning and introspection, [I settled] on atheism… I still attend Mass occasionally, mostly to serve as an acolyte at my former home parish…” L.N.

% of Protestant teens have attended events in their church during the last week.

family’s financial situation, we need some extra help paying the tuition… Not only does [the pastor] approve the donation of $1,000 a year for my sister and I to go … he also gives extra money …” I.M.

“Ever since I started high school, my parish has been the reason for my being there. With my

% of Catholic teens have attended events in their church during the last week.

“I have seen evil sit reverently in the front pew at church and head religious committees.” D.N.

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29 11

% of Protestant teens say they are church members.

75 69

% of Catholic teens say they are church members.

– Gallup

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YMCA. I’m in the National Honor Society, which requires 20 hours of community service every year.

With school, working a lot at Andy’s Pizza, sports and church activities, I am busy.

God. They know he’s there, and want to contact him, but don’t know how. I tell them to keep seeking and keep up their prayer life. I invite them to youth group.

Evangelization is one thing that every parish should be emphasizing.

I feel like I am developing a closer relationship with God. I pray in the morning, at meals, before bed, and spontaneously for tests and problems or challenges. I carry a rosary with me and pray it when I have free time. Plus I average an hour per week in eucharistic adoration. There is a one-on-one connection there, like it’s Jesus and I talking to each other, even if the chapel is full.

My happiest times are when I help someone; even if I have just made the smallest impact, I feel that I have done my best.

What I like most about being Catholic is the belief that the Eucharist is the body and blood of Christ, his life given for us. It’s not just a symbol as it is for some denominations.

In my spare time, I love doing community service, especially Habitat for Humanity because I enjoy working with my hands. I also am a movie fan. I like them all. And I listen to Christian music – some rock – but mostly slower praise and worship. I can see God through the lyrics. It helps me relax. If I had a rough day, it gets me back in the right frame of mind.

Nick Stevens Our Lady of Fatima, Michigan Center (15, sophomore) Church is quiet, relaxing, calming for me. I like being involved – as an altar server, helping CYM kids and volunteering at events. God deserves to be given back for all he has given me.

When I was younger, I was shy in class at school. I wasn’t happy about my shyness. When I realized life didn’t last long and that I needed to value my years, I decided to not be shy. It wasn’t easy; I had to work hard to overcome it. I don’t think much in life is handed to you. You have to go get it, just like you have to work hard in sports to succeed.

My parents have worked hard to give my brother and me a happy and fulfilled life.

Kevin Mahar St. Mary, Chelsea (17, junior)

Whenever I see a priest, I see a 12 or 13 when I first thought about the priesthood.

What are teens thinking about?

What are the most pressing issues facing teens today? Here are some stats.

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Drugs/ smoking/ alcohol

31%

C. Jones

joyful person who is available for other people. I was

It’s fun to be at the parish because everyone is so friendly. I always look forward to going back, so my involvement isn’t work.

I love to run. I feel like I’m on top of the world, especially when I’m pushing myself to the limits.

At the same time, it’s basically hanging out with friends since we

talk a lot while we run. When I run alone, it’s a chance to think, to clear my head.

One of the biggest obstacles I’ve overcome was in track – running a five-minute mile. I pushed hard for it last year, but missed by four seconds three meets in a row. At the last meet, with my teammates pulling for me, I ran a 4:58.

Being Catholic is great because no matter what mistake I make, God will forgive me if I’m sorry. He died for my sins. Once, after I hurt a friend really badly, I asked him and God to forgive me. We have been best friends ever since.

Kristyn Ellis St. John, Fenton (16, junior) A lot of friends I grew up with got caught up in bad things in high school, things they considered cool. That has been sad for me, especially when many of them said they would never do such things. But they made poor choices. I’m fortunate to have my best friend and other friends in youth group to hang out with.

My greatest joy is cheerleading.

I made the JV team last year, and should make the varsity this year.

I would like to imitate Jesus by following in his footsteps, and by helping people to believe in him. I have been able to do my small part by such things as going on our youth group mission trip, helping at the nursing home and passing out cards at the mall that let people know how to get prayer or help if they need it.

Peer Sexual is- Education Ignorance/ Career/ pressure/ sues (teen 14% lack of employfitting pregnanyouth carment/ in/looks/ cy/aboring/getting economy/ popularity tion/STDs) involved money/ future 17% 14% 10%

10%

Morals/ attitude

8%

Teen Issue 7/31/07 3:07:51 PM

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What am I going to do with my life?

Let love guide you

M

ost of us have probably asked, “What am I going to do with my life today?” God gives each of us a beautiful gift in being able to offer ourselves as a sincere gift back to God and to others. But often, we struggle with the specifics. How exactly am I to give of myself to others and God? I have struggled with the question more than once.

When I was in college, I first thought I was going to be a professor and was working full steam on a Ph.D. in biochemistry. At the same time, I met a wonderful young lady and marriage came to mind. She helped me bring God into the discussion and then things got very interesting. Before this point, I may have asked, “What am I going to do with my life?” but it was without God as a reference point. I was not thinking about the big picture and definitely did not even consider asking God for some input on the matter! I had drifted from my FAITH Magazine

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Catholic faith, which is a problem if you want to make a good decision that will affect your entire life. How is one going to be able to make a good decision about life if we do not know the author of life? I was soon to find this out, and also to find that God has a mysterious way of moving us exactly where we need to be so he can get through to us.

Jesus said that the Holy Spirit, like

the wind, blows where it wills.

I recently had moved to Michigan to continue my graduate studies. I did not know anyone, but in a short time, many good people of Christian faith were right in front of me! Christian missionaries who visited the dorms asked me to study the Bible with them; a local director of religious education befriended me; a group of Catholics invited me to their family prayer group meetings; and I was encouraged and drawn to attend Mass at the student parish. While the vocation question was still in my mind, it was as if God were moving me into a better place where I could actually hear him!

At this time, I never really talked much to anyone about the possibility of a priestly vocation. I was too chicken. In fact, when I would see priests, I would tend to run the other way. But the more I prayed, the more I felt an inner prompting

24 September 2007 | www.FAITHmag.com 7/31/07 3:09:02 PM

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to consider the priesthood. I kept praying, “Show me the way Lord.

Show me the way to love and to give my life to you.” And God answered that prayer in incredible ways.

One Sunday, I was in the parking lot of the church after Mass and heard the yells of the parish’s retired pastor. Father Mac was suffering from Alzheimer’s and was not able to celebrate Mass unless he had some help. At first, I hoped he was calling for someone else, but he kept saying, “Young man…young man… come here …come here!” I looked around and there was no other young man in the area – I could not avoid this one!

Father Mac blurted out, “Young man, have you ever considered being a priest?” It was like my worst nightmare and best dream were

who spoke about vocations to the priesthood. I felt like the disciples on the road to Emmaus whose hearts burned within them.

Then, an incredible thing happened after Communion. Father Mac got up and began to ask everyone to pray for a young man he had met the other day who was a biochemist. He asked us to pray for that young man to become a priest. I was slowly trying to sink underneath the pew to hide. Too late! He spotted me. He pointed in my direction as said, “And there he is… stand up young man, stand up!” There was no escape. I felt like I was set up. Alzheimer’s? How did he remember so much?

I was numb with joy. After Mass, Father Mac asked, “I didn’t push you into anything, did I?” I told him, “No FaHow is one going to be able to ther. Sometimes make a good decision about life donkeys need a good kick in the rear end to get going!” When everyone had left, happening right before my I knelt down and prayed deeply in eyes. I said, “As a matter thanksgiving. A few months later, of fact, Father Mac, I have I entered the seminary, and Father been thinking about the Mac went home to be with Jesus. priesthood for a long God called me to the time.” Dear God, I priesthood, but he calls had said it out loud! others to marriage or Father Mac to live a consecrated said with a smile, single life or to “Well, young become a religious man, come and sister or brother. see me. We will talk All these calls are simmore about that!” But ilar in that, in every I kept putting off callcase, God asks ing Father Mac. I was the person very busy in the lab to give up and I didn’t think he his or her would even remember life in love the conversation. as Jesus did.

A few weeks later, on The important my birthday, I went to thing is to daily Mass concelebrated say “yes” to

by Father Mac and anGod and offer other priest. I sat near the oneself as a sincere last pew. It was an amazing gift to God and Mass. The concelebrating others. That is priest was a missionary love.

if we do not know the author of life?

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4 steps to figure out your life a walk with St. Peter n this exercise, we are going to walk with St. Peter and consider how Jesus helped Peter know how to respond to the question, “What am I going to do with my life?” To begin, prayerfully read John, Chapter 21 a few times. As you read it, ask yourself how Peter might have felt at different times during the reading.

I

Before meeting Jesus: How did he feel being out fishing all night without a catch? What would such a night remind him of? (See Luke 5:1-10) What was Peter comfortable doing when he met Jesus? Read Luke 5:10, or Mt 16:18-19. What in my life am I comfortable doing and what has the Lord asked of me that takes me out of my comfort zone?

When he realized Jesus was there: What are some of the things that Jesus did that helped engage and heal memories within Peter? (The catch of fish, the nets that almost were torn, the charcoal fire, asking for a couple of fish, the three questions). How has the Lord healed memories in your life that were painful?

The question: “Peter, do you love me more than these?” What are the “these”? Some have said “the other disciples” – do you love me more than “the other disciples”? But I think a much simpler look at things in light of all that has transpired makes better sense.

“Peter, do you love me more than these fish?” Peter, you have given your life to catching these fish. You stayed out all night (again) trying to catch them. Do you love me more than these? What in our lives do we love and dedicate our time to? What makes us secure? What is our bread and butter, our livelihood? Do we love Jesus more than these?

The call: “Feed my lambs … tend my sheep … feed my sheep.” Three times Peter denied Jesus. Three times, Jesus allowed Peter to affirm the truth of his love for Jesus. Three times Jesus made his choice of Peter clear and his mission clear: “Feed my sheep.” End this exercise by considering the specific ways God has called you to tend the lambs and feed the sheep in your life. Who are God’s lambs that you have been entrusted with? What do they need and how can you offer care to them? – Father Bill Ashbaugh

1 2 3 4

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he diocesan Planning Tomorrow’s Churches strategy is a 50-year plan for the diocese. So, in the next half-century, what will our young people’s faith lives resemble when they marry, raise children and retire? How are parishes currently ministering to our youth?

What faith formation programs have shown success? Let’s take a look.

Part 1: Improving our worship ince 2005, the Diocese of Lansing has been addressing the process of parish and diocesan improvement. Over the next few weeks, parishes will be receiving regional preliminary recommendations based on a completed Parish Evaluation Inventory (PEI). Each parish’s

S

Our diocese’s standards for worship • Eucharistic liturgies are prayerful, reverent and relevant to the people in their everyday lives; people feel welcome, music is inviting, led well and of excellent quality.

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information will be reviewed on a regional and diocesan level to determine how the sacramental, educational and pastoral needs will be met in the 10-county area.

An important aspect of the process was the PEI. During the next three months, FAITH Magazine will be highlighting the three aspects

• Lay ministers are active and prepared participants in the liturgical, sacramental and prayer life of the parish.

• People in the parish are formed through the celebration of the Eucharist and sacraments.

• Various forms of prayer and devotions are well

planned, offered and encouraged throughout the liturgical seasons.

• The work of evangelization is intentional and is present in all parish ministries.

• The parish has an active catechumenal ministry that initiates and/or receives

within the evaluation tool used by each parish – worship, parish as disciple and parish sustainability.

This month, we look at Worship.

Worship: The celebration of the Eucharist, the central focus within each parish, is complemented by a sacramental and prayer life that brings faith alive in each person. adults and children into the Catholic Church.

• Active participation in the sacramental life of the parish lends itself to active participation in parish and community life.

– PEI Criteria. A Vision for Tomorrow’s Parishes and Schools, Diocese of Lansing.

26 September 2007 | www.FAITHmag.com 8/3/07 12:34:22 PM

Where are we in the process?

Parish/Faith community evaluation

Regional Review Committee discernment and evaluation

Formulate

regional preliminary observations

Parish assemblies (town hall meetings) Recommendations forwarded to the Diocesan Coordinating Commission (DCC) DCC reviews recommendations and prepares draft recommendations DCC sends draft to the regions for review Bishop’s consultative bodies PLANNING review recommendations DCC forwards final recommendations to the bishop for his decision and actions. tomorrow’s churches DIOCES E OF LANS I NG

According to Sister Rita Wenzlick, OP, director of the diocese’s Office of Pastoral Planning, and Pat Rinker, director of youth ministry, successful youth ministry programs have three components: faith formation, strong community building and strong community service.

“It is important that all three components are of equal balance,” says Sister Rita. “Sometimes, one aspect becomes more important to a ministry than the other two, and that throws the equilibrium off, and the program is not as successful.”

Additionally, youth ministry programs need to reflect the signs of the time. Youth programs that embrace technology (like blogs, music and liturgy available in mp3 format), can speak to teens in the cultural nomenclature of the day. They relate to the issues that teens are experiencing and will most likely see increased membership and longevity.

At press time, all information from the regions had not been submitted, but Sister Rita did mention that one of the six regions is convinced that youth ministry oftentimes is more successful if parishes share resources.

“Our youth want to be with the students that they go to school with, and most of the time that crosses parish boundaries,” she says. “Additionally, sharing parish resources among two or more parishes will add to the sustainability of a successful youth ministry.”

For more information about youth ministries, contact Patrick Rinker at prinker@dioceseoflansing.org or log on to the diocese’s Web site to locate best practices at the Share the Wealth link at www.dioceseoflansing.org.

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Two youth ministry success stories Immaculate Heart of Mary/St. Casimir, Lansing

1

When population drops within a city or rural area, parishes may also see a decline in congregations and program participation. Inner-city Lansing parishes Immaculate Heart of Mary and St. Casimir combined many programs and their schools in order to share resources. Among other benefits, this made for a vibrant youth ministry program.

Each week, 40 to 60 teens Each week 40 to 60 teens come tocome together from beyond pargether from beyond more than one ish boundaries to be educated, parish boundary affirmed and challenged to live the Gospel in a program called LIFE TEEN – an international Catholic in a program movement that leads teens closer to Christ through vibrant eucharis- called LIFE TEEN tic spirituality and many opportunities to grow in faith.

LIFE TEEN consists of a Sunday evening Mass with a homily directed to teens – using language, props, music and occasional skits performed by teens. This ensures that the message will resonate with the youth beyond the one-hour Mass. Following the Mass, teens head to the LIFE Night Experience in the youth room (equipped with stereo, music equipment, a full kitchen and stage) to discuss educational topics, engage in social activities and prayer. It’s a Catholic ministry that goes beyond the walls and into the wider youth community. Food, fun and faith!

to be educated, affirmed and challenged to live the Gospel

LIFE TEEN is a program available to all parishes. For more information about the program, go to www.lifeteen.com.

St. Mary, Chelsea

2

Service is super-sized for the youth at this parish. Each Super Bowl Sunday, the teens come together with other youth groups from churches throughout the area to ask the community for donations of one can of food and one dollar to be distributed to three charities. By kickoff, more than 600 cans of food are collected and nearly $1,000 is raised.

Their service programs extend beyond a football game in early February – service is year-round and national in scope. Students start at the local level and, once they have experience, can move into service projects with a broader outreach. For instance, St. Mary’s youth will go to New Orleans to assist in Hurricane Katrina recovery. This is their second trip to help the storm-ravaged area. The youth group, which boasts 125 members, has also participated in eight other national service projects.

What makes these students want to serve? Mary Lou Hahn-Setta, director of youth ministry at St. Mary Parish, believes that the teens are rewarded intrinsically when they serve others and feel a bit more like Christ.

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Protecting Christian clergy from burnout The St. Francis Retreat Center in DeWitt is ministering to pastors and targeting burnout by offering participants spiritual renewal. The center is able to host these inexpensive retreats, conferences, workshops and peer support groups because of a $1.4 million grant from the Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment, which was given to the Roman Catholic retreat center as a means to supply all Christian clergy with the resources and support needed to keep them from burning out. The center offers a large library full of books, journals, multimedia and Internet access in addition to 95 beautiful acres of land for the Christian leaders to sit outside and enjoy.

Groundbreaking!

On the day of the Catholic devotion to the Precious Blood of Jesus, July 1, the cornerstone for the future Mount Calvary was dedicated, blessed and placed in the ground at the Shrine of St. Joseph in Grass Lake. Many people took part in the celebration as they buried the cornerstone and prayed for the success of the project. Mount Calvary is expected to be complete in the early fall. The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes was dedicated near the same site in 2005. Construction of Mount Calvary is the next step in the development of the shrine, which the Pious Union of St. Joseph, with the help of many small benefactors, is preparing as a place of ministry for the Servants of Charity.

Where are Mary and Joseph?

The Pastoral Planning Office has seen a wealth of good ideas come to life as the work of pastoral planning goes on in our parishes.

Since March 2006, we have been featuring one of these ideas each month via the “Sharing the FAITH Magazine

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Holy Cow! Fr. Cecilio Reyna of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Westphalia recently blessed a donated beef steer. The steer will be made into a hamburger and sold at the Ark Youth Café this summer. “I wanted to make sure that he received a blessing before making the ultimate sacrifice,” said Fr. Reyna.

Wealth…” link on the diocesan Web page. We have fleshedout each idea in an article that tells you everything you need to know, including contacts who will help you get started. As we add one each month, it’s becoming an impres-

St. Mary School names new principal St. Mary Catholic School in Pinckney, has announced the selection of its new principal, John Gilboe. Gilboe will replace Suzanne Cowdrey, who is retiring after a career in education that spans 40 years.

“I’m grateful for the many wonderful years of service given to us

by Suzanne Cowdrey,” said Rev. Ken Coughlin, pastor of St. Mary Parish. “At the same time, I’m excited that John Gilboe is joining St. Mary. John is an experienced, proven leader who has a passion for Catholic education. His vision for our school will build upon a tradition of high quality, faith-centered education for young people.”

Gilboe holds a master of arts degree in English education from Wayne State University and has 28 years of experience in education, most recently at All Saints Catholic School in Canton.

He also taught at St. Pius School in Southgate and St. Regis School in Bloomfield Hills, where he served as middle school coordinator and assistant principal. In addition, Gilboe has owned and operated a successful small business for the last 25 years.

Requiescat in pace Deacon Robert C. Chadwick of Belleville died on June 3, 2007. He was ordained in August 1995 and served at St. John Parish in Ypsilanti.

sive array of success stories.

There are 17 articles there now. Probably there’s one or more there that your parish can adopt and adapt.

Forget Waldo, Carmen Sandiego or Matt Lauer – Where are Mary

and Joseph? Last December, the parishioners at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Parish, Jackson, participated in a successful Advent adventure as the Holy Family and three Magi journeyed through the parish on their way to Bethlehem.

Read more about this exciting project at the “Sharing the Wealth…” link on our Web site www.dioceseoflansing.org.

28 September 2007 | www.FAITHmag.com 7/31/07 3:09:29 PM

w o r k

In the Footsteps of Da Vinci, a 2-CD audio tour costing $18.95, is now distributed in the U.S. by Aunt Dee’s Attic of Ann Arbor.

Fans and foes of Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code can now journey in the footsteps of Holy Grail searchers, armed not with swords but with their own iPods or mp3 players.

For more information, call 1.800.352.6797 or e-mail inquire@auntdeesattic.com. To preview the In the Footsteps of Da Vinci tour, please visit artineraries.com.

Summerfest at the Ark On July 21, hundreds of teens and young adults gathered on the grounds of St. Mary Parish, Westphalia for the first Ark Summerfest, sponsored by the Ark Youth Center. The day included a kickball tournament, an all-you-can-eat hog roast, several inflatable events and five live bands. The evening ended with the crowd joining in praise and worship by the Flynn Feldpausch Project, led by St. Mary’s music and youth director Brian Flynn. Check out pictures of the event on the Ark’s Web site, www.arkyouth.net.

September Readings Sunday, Sept. 2 Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time Sir 3:17-18,20,28-29 Ps 68:4-5, 6-7,10-11 Heb 12:18-19,22-24a Lk 14:1,7-14 Sunday, Sept. 9 Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Wis 9:13-18b Ps 90:3-4,5-6,1213,14-17(1) Phlm 9-10,12-17 Lk 14:25-33 Sunday, Sept. 16 Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time Ex 32:7-11,13-14 Ps 51:3-4,12-13,17,19 1 Tm 1:12-17 Lk 15:1-32 or 15:1-10

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Sunday, Sept. 23 TwentyFifth Sunday in Ordinary Time Am 8:4-7 Ps 113:12,4-6,7-8 1 Tm 2:1-8 Lk 16:1-13 or 16:10-13 Sunday, Sept. 30 Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Am 6:1a, 4-7 Ps 146:7, 89,9-10(1b) 1 Tm 6:11-16 Lk 16:19-31

I have no idea what I’m supposed to be doing how do I pick a career?

Brandon graduated from college four years ago and is struggling with his career direction.

iStockphoto.com

New digital guide decodes The Da Vinci Code

l i f e

randon says: When I graduated from high school, I had no idea what to do, so I went into a liberal arts program in college.

I switched majors a couple of times and finished with a math degree. I was employed as a statistician right after graduation, but didn’t really enjoy it, so I found a job in the actuarial department of an insurance company. I’m still not happy, but I have no idea what I should be doing. I’ve asked God many times what I’m supposed to do, but I’m not hearing any answers. I don’t feel I’m where I belong. Instead, I just feel lost.

B

The expert says: Mother Teresa taught high school for many years, and at one point was the principal of the school. She didn’t hear her call to begin ministry in Calcutta until she was 36, and didn’t receive permission to make the change until she was 38. One might say that her years as a teacher were necessary in preparation for her ultimate calling. Stephen Covey, in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, refers to the principle of potential, which means that we “can grow, develop and release more potential, develop more and more talents” (p.

34). In other words, while some people may be made aware of their true talents and abilities earlier in life, for many people it may not become clear for years.

Thus, it is necessary for us to embrace where we stand at any given point in life, because even though we may

feel restless, we need to trust God’s plan and believe that we are being groomed, that our potential is being generated.

Prayer is the key to uncovering our capability and allowing it to grow: • Pray unceasingly. God will give you what you need because of your persistence (Lk 11:5-8), and it may take time to align our lives with God’s call.

• Pray for wisdom to distinguish between God’s call and the motives of this world.

• Pray for patience to allow God to work in your life.

• Pray for the grace and joy to appreciate where you are at the moment, and how you are growing.

Brandon can find peace in the realization that he isn’t lost; he just may not be able to see in through the fog.

Therefore, he needs to trust God’s light to guide him, and rest in that understanding.

– Tim Ryan

7/31/07 3:09:39 PM

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things to do: The Jackson Family Fall Festival will be held Sept. 7-9 at the St. John Elementary/Jackson Catholic Middle School grounds. Hours are Fri., 3 p.m.-midnight; Sat., noon-midnight; Sun., noon-6 p.m. There will be carnival rides, games, entertainment and much more. See the Web site at www.jacksonfamilyfestival.com for more maps, more information and details about the raffle for a Pontiac Solstice convertible.

Spiritual Festival will take place Sept. 14-16 at St. Joseph Parish, Howell. The festival will begin at 7 p.m. each night with music, prayer and a speaker. Speakers will include Ralph Martin, Sister Ann Shields, Peter Herbeck and Jason Event. Child care will be available each night. For more information, call 517.546.0900, ext.401 or e-mail fwines@stjosephhowell.com.

Retrouvaille will be held Sept. 14-16 in the Detroit area. If your marriage is in trouble, please consider attending.

Visit www.retrouvaille.org for more information.

Ephesians 5 will be the topic of discussion at St. Patrick Catholic Men’s Night on Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. The doors of Brighton’s St. Patrick Church will open at 6:30 p.m. The event is open to both men and women and will be led by Fr. John Riccardo. For more information, call 810.229.9863.

St. John Student Parish, East Lansing, will host a live performance of The Gospel of John as a part of its 50th anniversary celebration. The

performance will take place on Sept.

14 at 7 p.m. All are welcome. For more information, call Liz Schweitzer at 517.337.9778 ext. 22.

The last Help & Hope Tour by the Catholic Charities of Jackson will be on Sept. 5 at noon. To receive more information and reserve a lunch, call Jennie at 517.782.2551.

Adolescent Understanding Anger Classes are still being offered for the months of Sept., Oct. and Nov. All classes are four weeks long and meet from 4-5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at Catholic Charities of Jackson.

The classes are for teens 13-16 years old. The cost is $5 per week.

You must pre-register by calling 517.782.2551.

A Caregiver Support Group will meet the first and third Monday of each month at St. Mary Catholic Church in Pinckney. For information, call Darlene or Sharon at 517.545.5944.

An Alzheimer Support Group will meet the second Tuesday of each month in Brighton. Call Pam Bolam at 810.229.9910.

Holy Cross Parish, Lansing, is hosting its festival Sept. 28, 6 p.m.midnight and Sept. 29, noon-midnight.

Events include Vegas games, music, kids’ activities, food and beer.

St. Joseph Parish, Ypsilanti, presents its harvest festival Sept. 16, noon-6 p.m. Stop by for games, rides, raffle and dinner.

St. Gerard Parish, Lansing, is holding a Ministry Fair, Sept. 29-30 in the parish hall.

At the St. Francis Retreat Center Dr. Robert Wicks will speak about Riding the Dragon, Strengthening Your Inner Life in Challenging Times, Sept.

21, 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Dr. Wicks is a noted author and an expert on the integration of spirituality and psychology. Cost is $50 and includes morning hospitality and lunch. Call 866.669.8321 or visit www.spe-stfrancis.org.

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At the Weber Center The following programs will be hosted at the Weber Center in Adrian.

Please contact 517.266.4000 for more information about any of them.

Ever Ancient, Ever New: Luke/Acts as a model for the contemporary church, presented by Dr. Mary Dumm, Sept.

14-15. Single occupancy cost is $150; commuter cost is $75.

The Spirituality of Thomas Merton, presented by Father Patrick Collins, Ph.D., Sept 21-23. Single occupancy cost is $200; commuter cost is $100.

Piecework – Soul work, a quilting retreat.

Oct. 5-7. Single occupancy cost is $200; double occupancy is $125 per person, commuter cost is $100.

The Journey into Deep Time: Be Amazed, Oct. 5-7. Single occupancy cost is $200; double occupancy is $125 per person, commuter cost is $100.

September café events Day of Prayer and Preparation for Catholic Teachers, led by Sister Sarah Burdick, SGL and Father James Conlon, Aug. 24, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Bethany House, DeWitt. Cost is $22 per person. For more information, call 517.669.8321, ext. 11.

Church History 101, Part I: Jesus’ Resurrection through the Middle Ages, led by Jan Haselschwerdt, Wednesdays,78:15 p.m., Sept. 5-Dec. 19 at St. Gerard, Lansing. Cost is $35 and includes book and materials. For more information, call Jan Haselschwerdt at 517.323.2379.

Day of Prayer for Catechists, led

by Kevin Perotta and Father James Conlon, Sept. 8, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Cost is $22 per person. For more information, call 517.669.8321, ext. 11.

The Great Adventure: A Journey through the Bible, DVD Bible Study led by Jeff Cavins, Thursdays, 7:15-8:45 p.m., Sept.

13-April 24 at St. Martha, Okemos.

Cost is $37 for materials. Call Katrina Lamarino at 517.347.3353 to register.

Is the Reformation Over?

Catholics and Evangelicals in America, a dialogue in two parts, Oct. 20, 10 a.m. in the MSU Kellogg Center Auditorium. Co-sponsored by St. John Student Parish.

Lansing Region Catechist Formation Day, Sept. 22, 8:30 a.m.

- 2:45 p.m. at St. Gerard, Lansing.

Three sessions with nine catechist formation topics. Cost is $22.50.

For more information, call Kathy Warriner at 517.321.4179.

Diocesan Catechetical Day 2007 will be presented in its entirety twice, Oct. 20-21 at Lansing Catholic High School and Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard High School. There will be more than 50 workshops. Keynote speaker is Cardinal Avery Dulles. Registration is $39 per person before Sept.

27. Fore more information, visit www.dioceseoflansing.org or call 517.342.2484.

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l a s t

w o r d

Will our teens be Catholic? tips for helping them stay in the church can still remember the first conference for Catholic youth ministry leaders. It was 1982 and one of the main speakers was Merton Strommen. He wrote the books, The Five Cries of Youth and The Five Pat Rinker Cries of Parents. Strommen had done a sociological study on why people stay active in the church. Over a 20-year period, people’s habits were tracked. One piece of information that really struck me was the reason they remained. The vast majority said they had had a significant experience with an adult leader where they felt loved and cared for.

I

So, will our youth remain Catholic? That’s a good question. Will our actions communicate to them that we care? Do we commit to ministry with youth the resources needed for their deepening of faith and active participation in the life and mission of the church?

Do they have a voice? Do they matter?

Something my dad used to say was, “I’m sorry, your actions are so loud I can’t hear what you’re saying.” The book of James says that, “You say you have faith and I’ll show you the actions that underlie my faith.” Actions speak louder than words.

We have many parishes in our diocese where youth are actively involved in their faith communities, where they are introduced to Jesus in a personal way, encouraged by caring adults, supported by the faith life of their families, and given opportunities to make a difference. Most of them stay.

But many parishes struggle to meet the needs of their parishioners with limited resources. Programs that were once directed by trained coordinators of youth ministry are now led by volunteers. Volunteers can do very well if they have time for formation and networking with others. But often they do not have time and cannot get formation. They struggle to provide effective ministry.

What can we do to help?

• Work with neighboring parishes.

• Share resources.

• Share personnel so that youth ministry

leaders can be hired who have time for formation. You can’t give what you don’t have.

• Allow faithful youth to step forward.

Get them formation and allow them to work with caring adults to plan youth ministry programs and be involved with other parish ministries.

• Increase stewardship, time, talent and treasure. Even with a full-time CYM, other caring adults are needed.

• Ask for help. Nearby parishes and diocesan staff can be of assistance.

We need each other.

• As adults, be active in our own faith formation. Our love for God can flow over to others. If we are a light, then we will draw those who search for it.

Merton Strommen only uncovered what we already knew. When Jesus was asked what is the greatest of all the commandments, he said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and all your strength, and love your neighbor as yourself.” Are we the significant adults that someone 20 years from now will remember? Will they remember us as someone who cares? Will our actions be louder than words, and will they see in us the actions that support what we teach? I hope so. Caring adults certainly were key to my personal relationship with Jesus and my desire to follow him anywhere he goes. Peace!

– Pat Rinker is director of the Diocese of Lansing Office of Youth Ministry.

Diocese of Lansing Office of Youth Ministry is supported by your DSA donations.

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How will our parishes improve?

How will parish

mergers closures clusters

affect our parish? $)/# %3 % /& ,!.3 ) .'

NG NI AN PL tomorrowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s churches

Sept. 2007

Regional Preliminary Observations

Sept./Oct. 2007

Our parish assembly

April 2008

Final recommendations announced Bishopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s final decision

June 2008

notes:

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7/31/07 3:10:11 PM