October 2008

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few months ago, I had the opportunity to attend a “Theology on Tap” evening while visiting a parish which serves a university community. The idea behind the Theology on Tap program is to bring together a group of college-age students for an evening that combines a presentation on church teaching in a particular area of interest to the students – theology – with a time for socialization – on tap. Because of its blend of faith and friendship, this program has proven to be very popular on college campuses around the nation. To be honest, I had never attended one of these gatherings, and so I was pleasantly surprised by what I discovered there that evening. The first surprise came as the group gathered in the local restaurant that had been chosen to host the evening. A small area in the back of the restaurant had been set aside to accommodate perhaps 20 to 25 persons. By the time the evening’s speaker was ready to begin the theology presentation, the crowd of young people had easily outgrown the number of seats set aside for them. In fact, by the time the presentation had begun, more than 50 young people, most in their early- to mid-twenties, were gathered in the room, spilling into every nook and cranny. The evening’s presentation focused on the Christian understanding of friendship. The presenter, an associate pastor at the university parish and a classmate from my days in seminary, spent 45 minutes reflecting on scripture and stories drawn from life experience, to guide the group into a fascinating discussion about healthy and supportive relationships, grounded in their shared faith in God. The presentation was not so much a lecture as it was a sort of “interactive homily.” Part of what made the evening’s discussion so interesting was that the group was made up of young people drawn from a variety of religious traditions. Many of the young people were Catholic, but there were also non-Catholics and non-Christians. The respectful and spiritually inquisitive tone of the evening was a beautiful ecumenical experience. The evening also revealed a wonderful, if not often-seen, side of young people in their twenties: they are people of incredible faith who want to use their faith to make a difference in the world. Often overlooked – or even looked down upon – these young people have tremendous energy and enthusiasm when it comes to their faith. They want to use their time and talen, as Mother Teresa would say, to make a difference for God. Yet so often, we overlook these young folks because they don’t quite fit in the neat categories and distinctions we try to make in our parish communities. I left the evening with a deepened respect for the faith of these “twenty-somethings” I had met. Their energy, commitment, sincerity and deep faith were both impressive and deeply moving. They taught me a great deal that evening. I suspect as we as church find more ways to invite them to share their gifts they will have much to teach all of us. And so our journey in FAITH continues.

Why I have deepened respect

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

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October 2008 | www.FAITHmag.com

T. Gennara

for the faith of Twenty-somethings

Liturgical Calendar: St Therese of the Child Jesus, Virgin and Doctor Oct. 1 | Guardian Angels Oct. 2 | St Francis of Assisi, Re

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inside

what you’ll get out of this issue

in the know with Fr. Joe

6 Don’t the scandals mean that priests shouldn’t be celibate? – Father Joseph Krupp

worklife

15 Get off my turf! How to work better together.

Voters’ Guide Election 2008

– Tim Ryan

marriage matters

16 He says: I just got a bonus – let’s buy a boat! She says: is he kidding? We can’t afford it. – Tom and JoAnne Fogle

parenting journey

T. Gennara

17 N ot a child anymore – how to share your faith with your twentysomething children. – Dr. Cathleen McGreal

How should I vote? The Michigan Catholic Conference addresses the issues, and gives some points to ponder before you cast your vote.

19 F ree will? Or is life predetermined?

s t o r y

– Elizabeth Solsburg

culture

When life takes a turn – how the St. Amant family got through David’s lifethreatening accident

The

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28 If it tastes like chicken ... – Michelle Sessions DiFranco

T w e n t y -S o m e t h i n g s

last word

31 Dear Student – Where’s God in your life? – Father Charles Irvin

Sister, Doctor – the two vocations of Sister Mara Sister Mara just finished a pre-med course at Michigan State University and is headed for medical school. She is also heading for her final vows as a religious sister.

T. Gennara

How do you say “God”? Stephanie started a Spanish religious education class Stephanie Curtis started a Spanish-language religious education program for children at St. Mary Student Chapel

Thicker than Water These brothers jam for Jesus Looking for some great music? Want to sing along in praise of God? Look no further than this band of brothers. Thicker than Water is a new sensation in the Catholic music world.

A. Gilmore Schmit

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Bishop Earl Boyea talks to his people about embryonic stem cell research Read his message as you think about your vote.

theology 101

J. Luning

Why Dave Doyle opposes embryonic stem-cell research He opposes any medical research that involves destroying human embryos. Find out why Dave feels so strongly, and speaks out so forcefully. Here’s the information you need to consider before heading to the ballot box on Nov. 4.

St Francis of Assisi, Religious Oct. 4 | Blessed Marie-Rose Durocher, Virgin Oct. 6 | Our Lady of the Rosary Oct. 7 | St Denis, Bishop and Martyr and his companions, Martyrs Oct. 9 | Blessed Virgin Mary Oct. 11

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l o c a l

The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing

Most Reverend Earl A. Boyea PUBLISHER

Rev. Dwight Ezop

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Curse of the Coins, the newest Sister Philomena adventure

Teens Dance for Those Who Can’t surpasses goal, raises more than $8,000 for Clinton County CAN Council

Curse of the Coins, book #3 in the Adventures with Sister Philomena, Special Agent for the Pope series by Dianne Ahern, illustrated by William Shurtliff, is now available from Aunt Dee’s Attic, 415 Detroit St., Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48104. This series is a popular collection for readers age 8 and older. For more information, e-mail inquire@ auntdeesattic.com.

On the evening of Aug.1, more than 130 St. Johns teens danced for 10 straight hours to raise money for Clinton County Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Council. The mission of the CAN Council is to educate and inform people in Clinton County about issues regarding child abuse and neglect; and to work together as a council to develop and support programs to strengthen the children and families of Clinton County. During the summer, teens solicited donations from individuals and local companies. Teens Dance for Those Who Can’t dance-athon, in its second year, raised $8,000 for CAN Council. In 2007, the teens raised money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Teens from the various churches will be meeting soon to choose a cause for the 2009 dance-a-thon.

EDITOR AND CHAIRMAN

FA I T H P u b l i s h i n g S e r v i c e Patrick M. O’Brien PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Elizabeth Martin Solsburg DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING

Joanne Eason DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE SERVICE

Vicki Wells-Bedard

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING

Patrick Dally ART DIRECTOR

Lynne Ridenour

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/WEBMASTER

Abby Wieber

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jillane Job EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Patricia Oliver SECRETARY

InnerWorkings

PRINT MANAGEMENT FAITHPublishingService.com

Andrew Peltcs

EDITORIAL INTERN

Kevin Duffy Dcn. Tom and JoAnne Fogle Katie Hicks Bob Horning Rev. Joseph Krupp Cathleen McGreal Tim Ryan Michelle Sessions DiFranco CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Derek Melot

PROOFREADING

Tom Gennara James Luning (cover) Philip Shippert

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

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

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.

Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling FOUNDING PUBLISHER

Rev. Charles Irvin

FOUNDING EDITOR

FAITH Magazine

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St. Agnes, Fowlerville chosen for its stewardship St. Agnes Parish in Fowlerville has been selected to be one of the International Catholic Stewardship Conference exhibitors at its Chicago Conference Parish Fair. The theme for this year’s conference is Evangelization and Stewardship in the Spirit of St. Paul. It is at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Oct. 12-15. The ICSC Parish Fair features parishes from around the country that have successfully implemented stewardship principles and are committed to stewardship as a way of life.

Corrections to the September edition of FAITH Magazine that detail the final decisions of the Planning Tomorrow’s Churches process. Pages 12 and 19: The graphic of Ingham County should indicate that St. Mary Cathedral is merging with Holy Cross, if and when necessary. Resurrection will remain an independent parish. Pages 12 and 17: The graphic of Genesee County should indicate that the parish of St. Mary, Mt. Morrice will provide back-up sacramental ministry for St. Francis, Otisville. Page 13: All Saints, Sacred Heart, St. Agnes and St. Luke should be listed as merged with St. John Vianney, Flint. St. Ann Bellevue should be listed as moving from parish to chapel status. Page 14: Michael Diebold, diocesan director of communications, was omitted from the listing of coordinating commission members. Page 20: Shiawassee County mass attendance change from 1999 to 2007 was 0%.

Corrections In the July/August issue, page 26, Sacred Heart Parish, Flint’s high school closed in June 1967, not 1960. Brother Bernard Spitzley celebrated his 33rd, not 25th, anniversary in religious vows on Aug. 17, 2008. FAITH regrets the error and wishes Bro. Spitzley blessings on his ministry. FAITH apologizes to Tucker Cordani for misspelling his name in the July/August issue and thanks him for the story he wrote about the Eucharistic Congress.

October 2008 | www.FAITHmag.com

FAITH wishes to clarify the use of the acronym PAN in the story about Virtus in our July/ August issue. The acronym PAN – Public, Appropriate, Non-sexual – is used in the Protecting God’s Children Awareness Sessions for Adults to discuss acceptable forms of physical contact with minors. Patrick McGuire, MSW, says: “… children often exhibit displays of physical affection. We ... have to be aware that this is a perfectly normal part of their continuing development. And as such, we as adults are required to direct that development appropriately.”

history quiz

October 2008 • Volume 9: Issue 8

St. Callistus I, Pope and Martyr Oct. 14 | St Teresa of Jesus, Virgin and Doctor Oct. 15 | St Hedwig, Religiou

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The piratefighting saint

St. Alexander Sauli Feast day: Oct. 11 Patron saint of Corsica Canonized Dec. 11, 1904 Meaning of name: Man’s defender, warrior

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San Alejandro Sauli Día festivo: 11 de octubre Santo patrón de Córcega Canonizado el 11 de diciembre de 1904 Significado del nombre: Defensor del hombre, guerrero Hechos que le hicieron famoso: Alejandro ingresó muy joven a un monasterio barnabita, y pronto se hizo un maestro de filosofía y teología en la Universidad de Pavía. En 1565, lo nombraron Superior General del Monasterio. Durante su estadía allí, Alejandro se hizo conocido como un predicador ferviente e influyente. En 1571, el Papa Pío V lo nombró obispo de Aleria, Córcega, donde la Iglesia estaba, esencialmente, muerta. Sin embargo, Alejandro y tres compañeros lograron revivirla. Construyeron iglesias y escuelas, fundaron universidades y seminarios, y al mismo tiempo corrigieron las conductas de los corsos y los trajeron de vuelta a la Iglesia. Alejandro y sus compañeros también ayudaron a los corsos a repeler incursiones piratas. Con el tiempo la Iglesia comenzó a florecer allí. En 1591, Alejandro fue nombrado obispo de Pavía, donde murió un año más tarde.

Why he is a saint: Alexander willingly went to Corsica, where the people were corrupt and separated from the church. He helped lead the people back to God without using force of any kind. Despite the deaths of his companions, he continued his work. Besides his work in Corsica, Alexander was a noted miracle worker, said to have prophesied and healed. He was also known for calming storms. He served as the spiritual adviser to St. Charles Borromeo and Pope Gregory XIV.

Por qué es un santo: Alejandro fue, de buena voluntad a Córcega, donde la gente estaba corrompida y separada de la Iglesia. Él ayudó a devolver a la gente a Dios, sin utilizar fuerza de ninguna clase, y a pesar de la muerte de sus compañeros, continuó su trabajo. Además de su labor en Córcega, Alejandro fue un conocido taumaturgo, se dijo de él que había profetizado, curado y que había calmado tormentas tanto durante su vida como después de su muerte. También hizo las veces de consejero espiritual de San Carlos Borromeo y del Papa Gregorio XIV.

Best quote: We know very little about Alexander’s teachings, although it was said of him that he “was an exemplary pastor in an age of abuse and corruption.”

Mejor cita: Sabemos muy poco de las enseñanzas de Alejandro, aunque se dijo de él que «era un pastor ejemplar en una época de abusos y corrupción».

How he died: Alexander returned to Italy in 1591 as bishop of Pavia. A year later, on one of his visitations to churches in his diocese, he fell ill and died.

Cómo murió: Alejandro regresó a Italia en 1591 como obispo de Pavía. Un año más tarde, en una de sus visitas a las iglesias en su diócesis, se enfermó y murió. Polish Cardinal Karol Wojtyla took the name John Paul II when he became pope. He was the first non-Italian pope in 456 years when the Catholic College of Cardinals chose him on Oct. 16, WHAT YEAR?

Eleven-year-old Grace Bedell of Westfield, N.Y. wrote a letter to presidential candidate Abraham Lincoln, suggesting he could improve his appearance by growing a beard. Her letter was sent on Oct. 15, WHAT YEAR?

Nylon stockings were made available to the general public for the first time when they were put on the shelves of a Wilmington, Del. department store on Oct. 24, WHAT YEAR?

Reuters

She thought he could improve his appearance by growing a beard

Answers: 1860, 1978, 1939

history quiz

Claim to fame: Alexander entered a Barnabite monastery at a young age. He soon became a philosophy and theology teacher at the local University of Pavia. In 1565, he was made the superior general of the monastery. During his time there, Alexander came to be known as a passionate and influential preacher. In 1571, Pope Pius V appointed him as the bishop of Aleria, Corsica, where the church was moribund. Alexander and three companions managed to revive it, however. They built churches and schools, and founded universities and seminaries, while also correcting the Corsicans’ behavior and bringing them back to the church. Alexander and his companions also helped the Corsicans fight off pirate raids. The church eventually began to flourish. In 1591, Alexander was made bishop of Pavia, where he died a year later.

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Send your questions to: “In the Know with Fr. Joe” FAITH Magazine 209 Seymour Ave., Lansing, MI 48933 Or: JoeInBlack@ priest.com FAITH Magazine

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Did the priest scandals prove that a celibate priesthood is unrealistic? I say this with all the sincerity I have: The time of the priest scandal was, and I think always will be, among the worst times of most priests’ lives. Its effects continue today as we struggle to help those who were wounded heal, to reestablish our moral authority, our trust in the bishops and the image of priests. What did it teach us? So much, and yet we have so much more to learn. I believe it taught us to, in the words of one of my heroes, “Listen to the voice of the shepherd before we listen to any other voice.” It taught us that we must always be open with our failings and faults. It taught us that despite its incessant mocking or attacking of Christianity, society does hold us to a higher standard. One of the other results of this crisis is the fact that we are asking good questions, such as yours: Does the scandal teach us that celibate priesthood doesn’t work or is unrealistic? Mental health professionals say “no.” Celibacy can be a healthy choice for a fulfilling and spiritually enriched life. The issue for most isn’t just that minors were abused, but that the church authorities didn’t deal with it properly and in a spirit of openness. Be this as it may, priestly celibacy is definitely being questioned and even attacked. I think this is a good time to explain some of the reasons why we priests are celibate. Father Cantalemessa

October 2008 | www.FAITHmag.com

Dear Fr. Joe Don’t the scandals mean that priests shouldn’t be celibate?

was Pope John Paul II’s private preacher. He gave a retreat a couple of years ago for the priests of the Lansing Diocese. In that retreat, he offered us some beautiful reflections on priestly celibacy. I’ll try to represent them well here. First of all, priestly celibacy is to be seen as a prophecy. In Matthew 19, verses 10–13, Jesus has just answered a question about divorce: [His] disciples said to him, “If that is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry.” He answered, “Not all can accept [this] word, but only those to whom that is granted. Some are incapable of marriage because they were born so; some, because they were made so by others; some, because they have renounced marriage for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Whoever can accept this ought to accept it.”

T. Gennara

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Here, Jesus is reminding us that some people can and should renounce marriage for the sake of heaven. Priestly celibacy can be a prophecy to the world; we priests

are called with our celibacy to literally use our hearts and even our sexuality to proclaim to the world that all this is temporary, that the kingdom of heaven is, in fact, at hand. We tie ourselves to nothing on earth, so that we can assist other people and ourselves in focusing on heaven. Another reason we priests embrace celibacy is that, in it, we imitate Christ, who did not marry. I know there is a lot of popular myth that attempts to convince us otherwise, but if you take a look at the Gospels and the letters of the apostles, you see accurate sources of information that aren’t speculating through culturally biased eyes, written by people who were actually there. John reminds us in I John, chapter 1 that he was there and is telling us the truth. In this case, we know Jesus wasn’t married and thus was celibate. With our priesthood, we priests are connecting ourselves with Jesus in a special way. There’s a lot more, but I’m running out of space. Let me just say that I thank God for the gift of priestly celibacy. I feel so honored in my heart to be a priest. I know that people are struggling with trusting the priesthood right now and I encourage you to see us as you see yourselves – faulty men who are doing their best to love and serve God and God’s people. I thank Jesus with all my heart for letting me be a priest. Enjoy another day in God’s presence! – Father Joseph Krupp

St. Anthony Mary Claret, Bishop Oct. 24 | Ss. Simon and Jude, Apostles Oct. 28

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Why Dave Doyle opposes

ave Doyle woke up one spring morning in 1998 at a Boy Scout camp-out. But something was different this morning. Dave’s leg was numb. Not thinking much of it, Dave brushed it off as having slept wrong the night before. But as similar symptoms continued, Dave decided to see a doctor, which led him to see another doctor, and another. After picking up the results of his MRI, Dave sat in his car and pondered the contents of the envelope. Finally, he decided to look. “It felt like I had been punched in the stomach.” Dave had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) a debilitating disease that is estimated to affect more than two million people worldwide.

“My faith has been important in this,” says Dave, whose fight with MS has forced him to rely on a cane, crutches and, finally, a wheelchair. “My faith has always been strong and that certainly helped me deal with it.” Dave also credits the support of his family with helping him through the tough times. And while his struggles are certain to occasionally take their toll, Dave has an incredible outlook, “There are a lot worse things that can happen to you. I’ve been very lucky.” Ten years after being diagnosed, Dave serves as the spokesperson for MiCAUSE, which stands for Michigan Citizens Against Unrestricted Science

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and Experimentation. MiCAUSE is the wording of the proposed constitutional ballot question committee that stands in amendment. “If the law were to change opposition to Proposal 2, which will ap- tomorrow to allow human cloning, hupear on Michigan’s November ballot. If man cloning would be allowed under passed, it would lift restrictions on the this proposal,” Dave explained. “This use of live human embryos in research. proposal doesn’t legalize cloning, but it What many Michiganians may not would allow the law to change.” realize is that the use of embryonic A law was passed in 1998 that stem cells is not illegal in Michigan. prohibits human cloning in Michigan. In fact, stem-cell But if Proposal research has been No treatments or cures have 2 passes and the in practice at one state constitubeen found using embryonic tion is amended, of Michigan’s stem cells, highest profile legislation such as public universi2007’s Senate Bill ties for years. 52 would pave The University of the way to allowMichigan’s Center ing human clonfor Human ing to commence Embryonic Stem in Michigan. Cell Research opened in 2003 and was Another major issue with the proinitially funded with federal tax dollars posal, according to Dave, is that it refrom the National Institute of Health. moves Michigan lawmakers’ ability to The biggest problem with this prooversee the regulation of the industry. posal, says Dave, is that it involves the “The Michigan Legislature would never killing of live human embryos in order be able to pass a law that in any way to extract stem cells. “It’s the beginning restricts or regulates that research in of life and the ending of life.” Michigan,” explained Dave. “It would Dave says that the campaign being be the only sector of society that run by Cure Michigan, the group supwould be completely beyond the reach porting Proposal 2, is extremely decep- of the legislature and the governor. “ tive. The deception begins with the It should come as no surprise that

while more than 70 treatments and cures have been found using adult stem cells.

FAITH Magazine

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many members of the Michigan House and Senate are not on board with a proposal that bypasses the legislative process. High-profile opponents of Proposal 2 include Democratic Speaker of the House Andy Dillon and Republican Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop. State Sen. Tom George serves as the co-chairman of MiCAUSE. In a recent meeting with members of the press, Sen. George used the analogy of standing at the advent of the Internet and having a constitutional amendment proposal that would leave cyberspace wide open without any restrictions. We know today that with the various hazards of the Internet, including pervasive pornography and lurking sexual predators, state and federal regulations are essential. The specific language of Proposal 2 states that “any research permitted under federal law on human embryos may be conducted in Michigan, subject to the requirements of federal law.” There’s only one problem. “There are no federal laws dealing with human embryo research,” says Dave. A point of contention between the two sides of the stem-cell issue is that there are many options beyond the use of live human embryos when it comes to stemcell research. No treatments or cures have been found using embryonic stem cells, while more than 70 treatments and cures have been found using adult stem cells. So why is there so much pressure from the scientific community to pass legislation that would allow the use of live human embryos in stem-cell research? It is essentially a guessing game, says Dave. “It’s a maybe. The other side says ‘Yeah, it’s possible and we should do all research.’” Other states have encountered highprofile fights to legalize the use of live human embryos. Most recently, Missouri caught the nation’s attention in 2006 when politicians and celebrities on both sides of the issue waged rhetorical war. The result was the passing of new legislation the allowed researchers and scientists to kill live human embryos in order to extract stem cells. Missouri residents are anxiously awaiting a judge’s ruling on whether to allow more than

October 2008 | www.FAITHmag.com 9/22/08 5:10:18 PM

$20 million in taxpayer funds to be used in live human embryo research. When it comes to using taxpayer dollars to fund embryonic stem-cell research, California leads the way. Californians are paying $3 billion over a 10-year span to fund the controversial field. Dave believes that if Proposal 2 is successful, it is only a matter of time before Michigan taxpayers are footing the bill

for live human embryo research. “This proposal doesn’t deal with funding, but would leave open the ability to do funding in the future,” said Dave. “Clearly, what they want to do is use taxpayer funding here in Michigan.” When asked whether a cure for his MS discovered using live human embryo research would change his perspective, Dave was adamant that it

What are the real facts about stem-cell research? Some questions and answers

e asked Dr. David Thorrez, board-certified pediatrician and member of the Lansing Guild of the Catholic Medical Association, to give us some information about stem-cell research. What is a stem cell? A stem cell is a cell that is not completely specialized to act as a specific type of cell in an organ or tissue.

would not. “And there are too many loopholes and potential dangers that the legislature would not be able to fix. If there were any abuses five or 10 years down the line, they could not be stopped.”

search. Induced pluripotent stem cells are adult cells, such as skin cells, that are injected with four specific genes that alter the cell. The result is a stem cell that is identical to an embryonic stem cell. This means we no longer need to use and kill human embryos to do the research. Is embryonic stem-cell research making any progress? No. In fact, embryonic stem cells often develop tumors or are rejected outright by the body’s immune system during research.

Where is the “cutting edge” research going? Of the two newest fields of stem cells research, induced pluripotent stem cells show the most potential for aiding in re-

“All human embryos are part of the human family, they are just at an earlier stage,” says Dr. Thorrez. “We were all once embryos.”

We keep hearing that there are different kinds of stem cells; what are they? There are four main types of stem cells used in medical research. Adult stem cells are just that: cells extracted from adult humans. Umbilical stem cells are extracted from the umbilical cord or placenta of a newborn baby. Induced pluripotent stem cells are genetically altered adult stem cells that mimic embryonic stem cells. Embryonic stem cells are extracted from human embryos.

Here are some diseases being successfully treated by adult stem cells: 1. Brain cancer 2. Retinoblastoma 3. Ovarian cancer 4. Skin cancer: Merkel cell carcinoma

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5. Testicular cancer 6. Tumors of abdominal organs 7. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma 8. Hodgkin’s lymphoma 9. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia 10. Acute myelogenous leukemia 11. Chronic myelogenous leukemia 12. Juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia

CNS

What kinds of medical advances and treatments have been developed using stem cells? While numerous treatments have been developed as a result of research using adult and umbilical stem cells, no treatments have been developed using either induced pluripotent or embryonic stem cells. Induced pluripotent stem cells and embryonic stem cells may have this potential, but are thought to be 10 to 20 years away from treating sick patients.

Dr. Thorrez is one of a number of medical professionals who believe the use of live human embryos in research crosses a moral line. Dr. James Thompson, widely considered a pioneer of embryonic stem cell research, has said he plans to focus the majority of his resources on induced pluripotent stem cells in order to avoid the moral dilemma, but also because he believes pluripotent stem cells are the most viable option. Likewise, Ian Wilmut, the British doctor who in 1996 made worldwide headlines by cloning a sheep named Dolly, has abandoned cloning research in favor of induced pluripotent Dolly stem cell research. Dr. Thorrez says he and his Catholic Medical Association colleagues were proud that the bishops of Michigan began educating the laity even before the human embryo research issue was placed on the ballot.

13. Chronic myelomonocytic leukemia 14. Cancer of the lymph nodes: angioimmunoblastic lymphadenopathy 15. Multiple myeloma 16. Myelodysplasia 17. Breast cancer 18. Neuroblastoma 19. Renal cell carcinoma 20. Various solid tumors

21. Soft tissue sarcoma 22. Ewing’s sarcoma 23. Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia 24. Acute heart damage 25. POEMS syndrome There are currently NO diseases being successfully treated by embryonic stem cells.

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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

his pro-life month of October is a good time for me to offer the following reflections. To be a bishop is to be a teacher, offering principles to help Catholics form their consciences as they fulfill their duty as citizens to vote. The following guidelines are intended for educational purposes only. This is not intended to endorse or oppose any particular candidate or political party, though it does oppose Proposal 2, the destructive constitutional amendment allowing unlimited research on live human embryos, which appears on this fall’s ballot. It is my hope that these principles will show how human reason and our Catholic faith shape our thinking, choosing and acting in daily life. THE DUTY TO VOTE • Catholics have the same rights and duties as other citizens, but are called to carry them out not according to worldly standards, but in the light of the truth of faith and human reason. • In a democratic society, citizens vote on proposals and elect candidates for the common good. These choices can significantly affect many lives, especially the lives of the most vulnerable persons in society, such as young human embryos, children in the womb and those who are terminally ill. Therefore, Catholic citizens have a serious moral obligation to exercise their right to vote. What is more, we have a duty to vote guided by a well-formed conscience.

How shall I cast my

FORMATION OF CONSCIENCE • Conscience is the means by which we discern the law “written” by God on our hearts that disposes us to love and to do good and avoid evil (cf. Romans 2:12-16). We have a serious duty to follow our consciences. To act against the judgment of conscience when it is certain about what is good and evil FAITH Magazine

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A letter from Bishop Boyea

has the same seriousness as disobeying God. However, it is important to remember that it is possible for our conscience to be wrongly formed regarding what is good and evil. • For this reason, we have an equally serious duty to form or teach our consciences properly so that we can judge what is good and evil accurately. We are obliged to seek the truth and then to abide by it. Catholics receive direction in this life-long process from the teachings of the church on matters pertaining to faith and morals. We rely on the help of the Holy Spirit to apply these teachings to particular issues.

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FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES • Notwithstanding a possible diversity of prudential judgments, each of us should guide our decision making on all issues with a fundamental respect for the dignity of every human being from the moment of conception to natural death. This is a non-negotiable principle. It is the foundation for a just society and of Catholic social teaching. Respect for human dignity is the basis for the fundamental right to life. It is also the basis for all those things needed to live with dignity – for example, work, fair wages, food, shelter, education, health care, security and migration. But these other basic human needs lose all meaning and purpose if the fundamental right to life – the right to exist – is denied. Because of respect for the dignity of the human person, Catholics are obliged to come to the aid and defense of the defenseless, especially the poor. Another guiding principle is the defense and promotion of marriage as the lifelong bond between one man and one woman for the building up of family life. SOME THINGS ARE ALWAYS EVIL • A correct conscience recognizes that there are some choices that always involve doing evil and that can never be done even as a means to achieve a good end. These choices include elective abortion, euthanasia, physicianassisted suicide, destruction of young human embryos, human cloning and same-sex “marriage.” Such acts are judged to be intrinsically evil; that is, evil in and of themselves, regardless of the motives of those who promote these ideas. They constitute an attack against innocent human life, as well as against the very nature of marriage and family. • Other examples of choices that always involve doing evil would be racial discrimination and the production and use of pornography. These actions offend the fundamental dignity of the human person. • Concerning choices that are intrinsically evil, no one with a well-formed conscience, especially a Catholic, may promote or even remain indifferent to them. HUMAN EMBRYONIC STEM CELL PROPOSAL • Currently, successful scientific research is being done on adult stem cells, which the church supports and encourages because this scientific work does not involve the

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killing of young humans in the embryonic stage. However, on the ballot this fall in Michigan, Proposal 2 would encourage the killing of human embryos. Even if a great good, such as the cure of diseases, could be achieved by this process, the good end or goal never justifies a deliberate attack on innocent human life. In addition, this proposal is too open-ended. The last clause reads: “Prohibits state and local laws that prevent, restrict, or discourage stem cell research, future therapies, or cures.” It is unimaginable to put into our state constitution a ban on the ability of the legislature or local governments to place any controls on this or any other industry. Proposal 2 goes too far. It could allow researchers to do all kinds of experiments on embryos and on genes. No one, with a well-formed conscience, can vote for such a proposal. We simply must find other ways, such as adult stem-cell research, to reach these good goals. VOTING FOR CANDIDATES • In light of the above, we would commit moral evil if we were to vote for a candidate who takes a permissive stand on those actions that are intrinsically evil when there is a morally acceptable alternative. What are we to do, though, when there is no such alternative? • Because we have a moral obligation to vote, deciding not to vote at all is not ordinarily an acceptable solution to this dilemma. So, when there is no choice of a candidate that avoids supporting intrinsically evil actions, especially elective abortion or embryonic stem-cell research, we should vote in such a way as to allow the least harm to innocent human life and dignity. We would not be acting immorally, therefore, if we were to vote for a candidate whose positions on these issues are not totally acceptable in order to defeat one who poses an even greater threat to human life and dignity. VOTING IS A MORAL ACT • Our duty is to vote in keeping with a conscience properly formed by fundamental moral principles. As your bishop, I am not telling you to vote for or against any candidate. Rather, I wish to assist in the forming of correct consciences and to invite a consideration of the issues in the light of these fundamental moral principles. In this month of October, may Our Lady of the Holy Rosary guide us to fulfill our duty in good conscience. Sincerely yours in Christ,

+ Earl Boyea Bishop of Lansing

Carlson Productions

AREAS OF PRUDENTIAL JUDGMENT • In some moral matters, the use of reason allows for legitimate diversity in our individual prudential judgments. Within certain parameters, Catholic voters may differ, for example, on what constitutes the best immigration or health care or housing policies. Catholics may even have differing judgments on the decision to wage a just war. Therefore, because these prudential judgments do not involve the direct choice of something evil and take into consideration various goods, it is possible for Catholic voters to arrive at different, even opposing, views.

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Most Americans are familiar with the term “separation of church and state,” a watchdog phrase that is commonly employed in the call for the parting of religion and faith from policy matters. From a historical perspective, the term may be traced, in part, to President Thomas Jefferson, who, in 1802, spoke of a “wall of separation.” The United States Constitution speaks to this important issue through two clauses within the First Amendment: • the Establishment Clause, which prohibits government from creating a national religion; and • the Free Exercise Clause, which protects freedom of religion. The phrase “separation of church and state,” however, does not formally exist in any document that gave birth to our nation and its laws. Yet frequently lost in the “separation” rhetoric is each citizen’s moral obligation to participate in the demo-

cratic process, regardless of his or her religious belief. The Catholic Church, which views the wedding of church and state as a suppression of religious freedom and other inalienable human rights, calls for the faithful to participate in the democratic process by bringing their moral and social message to the public debate. This concept may be described as “Faithful Citizenship.” Casting ballots, joining political parties, contacting legislators, organizing get-out-the-vote efforts and participating in community forums are just a few examples of how one may blend their faith with politics. The United States is a pluralistic nation. Our society is enhanced and flourishes because of the right of minority groups and those of differing viewpoints to bring forth their perspectives on important social issues of the day. The church does not seek to tell, nor does she have an interest in telling, Catholics which candidate to vote for or against. The church does

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s we approach the election on Nov. 4, we turn to the bishops of the Michigan Catholic Conference for some guidelines to help us make these important decisions at the ballot box.

have the responsibility of informing the consciences of Catholics in accordance with God’s truth. It is within this formation of conscience that the individual Catholic voter must open himself or herself to the teachings of the church and to bring moral truths to the public square. For example, a well-formed conscience does not accept

the intentional destruction of human life or racism as acceptable public policy. These are not principles held exclusively by Catholics; rather, they are principles based in moral and natural law that all faiths and people of goodwill can agree upon. Christians believe that Jesus’ commandment to love one’s neighbor extends

“The church is called upon to manifest “It is necessary that all participate, each according anew to everyone, with clear and stronger to his position and role, in promoting the common conviction, her will to promote human good. This obligation is inherent in the diglife by every means and to defend it nity of the human person … As far as possible, against all attacks, in whatever condicitizens should take an active part in public life.” tion or state of development it is found.” Quotes to keep in mind:

– Catechism of the Catholic Church, par. 1913–1915

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– John Paul II, Apostolic Exhortation Familiaris Consortio (22 November 1981) 30

For more information, go to www. MichiganCatholicConference.org 9/22/08 5:10:57 PM

What do I need to think about before I vote?

hat are the issues we must consider when casting our vote? From education to economic justice, to the protection of human life and the promotion of the dignity of every individual, the church speaks to a breadth of issues that are of concern to the people of Michigan. These issues may be addressed in six categories: religious freedom, human life, children and families, health care, education and economic justice and regulatory policy. Not all issues carry equal weight — the destruction of human life through abortion, embryo destructive research or euthanasia is never acceptable, for example — but all are necessary to advance the common good and moral fiber of the state and the country.

Religious freedom: Freedom of conscience and of religion is a primary and inalienable right of the human person. Insofar as it touches the innermost sphere of the spirit, one can even say that it upholds the justification, deeply rooted in each individual, of all other liberties.

Human life: Human life must be respected and protected from the moment of conception until natural death. From the first moment of existence, a human being must be identified as a unified individual endowed with human nature and as such is the proper bearer of fundamental human rights. Every life is sacred because the person has been willed for its own sake in the image and likeness of God.

beyond individual relationships to all human relations, from the family to the entire community. The church joins the public debate to share its experiences in serving the powerless and to add its values to the political dialogue. This kind of participation does not involve religious tests for candidates. Rather,

it seeks to lift up the moral dimensions of public issues. It encourages Catholics, as believers and citizens, to use the resources of our faith in building a society that is more respectful of life and human dignity and more cognizant of the Christian obligation to seek peace and justice. – Michigan Catholic Conference

“Any tendency to treat religion as a private matter must be resisted. Only when their faith permeates every aspect of their lives do Christians become truly open to the transforming power of the Gospel.” – Pope Benedict XVI, Celebration of Vespers and Meeting With the Bishops of the United States of America. 16 April 2008

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Children and families: Children are among the most vulnerable members of the human family. As policies are advanced to help children, they must support families, since children’s lives are nurtured or neglected, enhanced or diminished, by the quality of family life. Since the family is the primary, indispensable and essential unit of society, policies must maintain and promote marriage and strengthen the family.

Health care: Equitable, accessible and ethical health care is an essential safeguard of human life. Health care is a basic human right; genuine health-care reform, recognizing the dignity of persons and the unique needs of the poor, is a matter of fundamental justice.

Education: All children, by virtue of their dignity as human beings, have an inalienable right to a quality education. Parents have the right to choose how that education is provided. Any effort to improve schools must include a commitment to educational choice.

Economic justice and regulatory policies: Of key concern is ensuring economic policies are shaped by moral principles. Economic choices and regulatory policies must be judged by how they protect or undermine the life and dignity of the human person, support the family, care for God’s creation and serve the common good.

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

Get off my turf!

How to work better together

University of Colorado marks 100 years of Catholic campus ministry Archbishop of Denver Charles J. Chaput celebrated an open-air Mass at the University of Colorado at Boulder to mark the 100th anniversary of Catholic campus ministry at the college.

Prejudice taught in the home Pope Benedict says Parents have the duty to teach children respect.

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Egyptian doctors’ union prohibits transplants between Muslims and Christians The Doctors’ Union of Egypt has prohibited the transplant of organs between those who profess the Islamic faith and Christians.

Bill has been a product manager at his company for a number of years.

Bishop of Beijing says Chinese Catholics ‘strongly hope’ for papal visit Joseph Li Shan, bishop of Beijing, said China’s relations with the Vatican are improving and expressed hope that the pope would soon visit China.

Anti-Christian attacks in India continue At least 13 people have died in attacks against Christians in the eastern Indian state of Orissa.

Kentucky doctor receives nation’s top Catholic missionary honor Dr. Carol Cottrill, 71, was awarded the Catholic Church Extension Society’s Lumen Christi Award – the nation’s top Catholic missionary honor.

Archaeologists uncover walls of ancient Jerusalem Israeli archaeologists uncovered the remains of two distinct southern walls of ancient Jerusalem on Mount Zion.

Vatican to publish document on poverty Cardinal Renato Martino announced the publication by the Holy See of a document that will attempt to offer concrete answers to the problem of poverty in keeping with the church’s social doctrine.

Bishops welcome regulations protecting conscience rights in health care The U.S. Catholic bishops’ spokesperson on abortion welcomed the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ proposed regulations as a way to protect medical personnel from being coerced to violate their consciences in federally funded programs.

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I’m really getting fed up with the tension between departments in this company. In order for us to turn out a good product, it’s absolutely necessary for sales, engineering and manufacturing to work together. But it’s becoming so difficult to get a simple job done because of the distrust and disrespect throughout the company. Rather than trying to share ideas, everyone is always on the defensive. I’m trying to figure out how I can make a difference. How can one person change the culture of an entire organization? – Bill

In order for an enterprise to prosper, it is necessary for all elements of that enterprise to work toward a common goal. Each division or department within that enterprise needs to recognize the value and importance of the other. It is the responsibility of each individual throughout the organization to establish a spirit of respect. François Michelin (long-time managing partner of Michelin Tire) once remarked: “As Pope John II has often affirmed, every person is unique and unrepeatable. This is the true foundation of enterprise. If one does not take the time to listen to the people around him, he commits a grave mistake – I would say, almost a sin – because he has not been attentive to the truth that God has placed in those people and that he needs to welcome and receive if he wishes to do well in his business” (Religion & Liberty published by

T. Gennara

Religious leaders urge that marriage remain defined as between a man and a woman Orthodox Jewish and Catholic leaders decried the promotion of same-sex unions as “marriage.” – Zenit

l i f e

mean for us as individuals? It’s easy to blame problems on others or on the organization. It is difficult to realize that if we’re not helping to fix the problem, we’re contributing to it. We each need to step up to the challenge by reminding ourselves of the Prayer of St. Francis to seek first to understand, rather than be understood. The challenge is to get into a habit of responding to negative attitudes with a positive one. In 1 Peter, we are encouraged to not repay evil with evil, rather with blessing (3:9). If you receive a negative reaction from someone at work, try responding in the following manner: • Resist the natural inclination to respond in kind. • Remember what François Michelin said about respecting the truth with which other people are blessed. • Express interest in the other’s perspective, and a desire to better understand. • If there is a legitimate disagreement, approach it in a respectful manner. • Seek a win-win solution, rather than a win-lose.

the Acton Institute).

What does this

– Tim Ryan

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an has always wanted a boat – and figures his recent bonus is a way to make his dream come true. Kim would rather have a savings account.

I just got a bonus – let’s buy a boat!

Is he kidding? We can’t afford it. Kim says: I’m really proud of Ian for getting that bonus, but the last thing we need is a boat. We have no money in our retirement account, and this could be a great start to a nest egg. We really can’t afford this kind of luxury. We could almost label this scenario as a ‘clash of the causes’! On the surface, it appears one spouse desires recreation and the other desires security; both desire the fulfillment of a dream. Ian’s and Kim’s surface disconnection is not unusual; nor is their lack of “joint” planning for what is important at this particular stage in their marriage. In the early years of marriage, most couples who openly respect each other share their dreams and expectations in sufficient details so that this type of disconnect doesn’t happen. But sometimes ‘life just happens’ – children arrive on the scene, work starts to take more time away from sharing-time with our spouse and we tend to drift apart by not sharing our dreams and desires. Then, out of the blue, one of us springs on the other a statement like Ian made: “I want to buy the boat I’ve always dreamed of having.” We rather doubt that the statement by itself is the issue, or his desire to buy a boat, or her desire to start a nest egg. One of the issues here is the timing! Not that there is a right time, but when couples start to drift apart, real communication falters and then just about any statement made by one spouse would most likely be a surprise to the other spouse. Most marriages can handle bad news and survive; yet many marriages find it difficult to handle surprises well – even good surprises like an unexpected bonus. For Ian and Kim, we would recommend FAITH Magazine

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16 October 2008 | www.FAITHmag.com

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Ian says: I just got a big bonus from work and I want to buy the boat I’ve always dreamed of having. It would be great – and Kim and I could take the kids out every weekend in the summer for some family fun. I don’t know why Kim isn’t as excited as I am.

He said She said what do they do?

an exercise that tends to work well in this type of situation. Ian and Kim should write down the pros and cons associated with buying the boat, with starting a retirement account, and with Ian receiving a bonus based on his work skills and commitment to family and his job. They may even wish to try and quantify their pros and cons with a dollar amount written alongside the pros and cons. When finished, exchange the lists and read them silently. After reading the lists, ask for clarification and then begin an open dialogue by telling each other what the strengths and weaknesses are with each pro and con on the list. Go through the complete list, starting at the top (not by picking the one pro/con that is most upsetting.) In the dialogue, Ian and Kim should also be asking the question, “What would God like us to do with this extra money?” If Jesus were sitting here at our kitchen table helping us make this decision, “What would he recommend?” Ultimately, Ian and Kim may wish to discuss a compromise. They could rent a boat first to

Deacon Tom Fogle is director of family life ministry, a ministry su 9/22/08 5:12:33 PM

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Not a child anymore

The bill box

How to share your faith with your young-adult children

ignoring it won’t work

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DIOCESAN

decade ago, a national poll investigated the attitudes of 13- to 17-year-olds. Laurie Goodstein and Marjorie Connelly reported about 66 percent of the adolescents felt their parents were “in touch with what life was like.” The majority felt that they got along with their parents either very well (51 percent) or fairly well (46 percent). The teens were spiritual, with 94 percent professing a belief in God, but also worldly, aware of uncensored aspects of our culture. They were a conservative generation in many ways, “... as wholesome and devoid of cynicism as the generation that wore saddle shoes.” Now, with memories of the Y2K bug becoming ancient history, parents are launching these millennials into the worlds of college, work and adulthood. Still connected. Adult millennials remain close to their parents. When I taught a study abroad class, these secure attachments came up frequently in everyday conversations. One student saw a Waterford crystal cake slicer that her mother would appreciate. Another wished his father could share an experience that reflected their Irish ancestry, since his dad never had the chance to visit Ireland. This warmth reflects that of many of their generation. The challenge for parents of millennials is to allow the autonomy necessary for their continued development in emerging adulthood. Spiritual seekers. Most millennials in the U.S. report they are spiritual individuals. But they are seeking ways to express this spirituality. Pope John Paul II pointed out that we are invited to the Eucharist for nourishment, “The Eucharist helps love to triumph in us – love over hatred, zeal over indifference.” How do we help our young adult children allow love to triumph? Reflect on these questions: • When millennials respond to God’s invitation to attend Mass, is this triumph of love evident in the relationships in our parish communities? • Is the zeal of the faith obvious in our lives as parents so that they observe the importance of the eucharistic banquet? • Is Mass something that they’ve noticed can be set aside on vacations or for a good tee time?

T. Gennara

, a ministry supported by the DSA.

The challenge for parents of millennials is to allow the autonomy necessary for their continued development in emerging adulthood.

the appropriate amount of cash. As needs and wants arise, dig into the envelope to cover the cost. When the cash is gone, it’s gone. No refills. This downhome approach is a great way to curb impulse purchases while still allowing couples flexibility to have some fun, he said.

ensure boating is something the entire family would like to participate in. They can discuss the possibilities of using some of the money to start a retirement account, some of it going to charity and the remainder for purchasing a boat. Granted, the boat may be smaller than Ian initially desired, but Tom believes God would be pleased and Kim would be a happier wife, which would be most beneficial to the relationship. Finally, Jo believes Ian should think twice about his crazy idea, because a boat is just a hole in the water that you throw money into! By the way, did we mention Tom has a small boat for sale? – Tom and JoAnne Fogle

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hether or not it’s in your wallet, it’s nearly always on your mind. Money — and how to manage it — is a topic many of us wrestle with daily. We turned to Ted Zale, a veteran financial adviser, for some practical pocketbook advice. Here are tips that can help you today: The bill box: You can’t ignore it, though some of Zale’s clients admit they’ve tried that route. “I’ve heard from couples where one spouse would just toss all the bills in the bucket and the other one wouldn’t look at them,” he said. “That doesn’t work.” Get a cash management system that works with your budget. It’s not as complex as it sounds. Zale suggests the time-honored envelope approach. Label an envelope for each category of monthly expenses (“groceries,” “entertainment,” and so on) and fill it with

j o u r n e y

In his homily at Yankee Stadium, Pope Benedict XVI directed many of his remarks specifically to the young people of America. He noted that in the Gospel, Jesus promised his disciples that they would perform great works (Jn 14:12). The pope inspired his listeners, saying, “Dear friends, only God in his providence knows what works his grace has yet to bring forth in your lives and in the life of the church in the United States. Yet Christ’s promise fills us with sure hope.” – Dr. Cathleen McGreal

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God and the arts

Many philosophers and theologians, such as Hans Urs von Balthasar, believe the human creative drive is a reflection of the divine creator. Throughout history, artists of all kinds – from poets and painters to sculptors and songwriters – have attempted to express their understanding of God. Each month, FAITH presents a sample:

Forgotten among the Lilies by Augusta Theodosia Drane

Or is life predetermined? Who is that philosopher? Prior to studying theology, seminarians study philosophy, which is defined as “the love of wisdom.” Many great theologians have thoughts rooted in preChristian philosophers, and we are going to profile some of them in this series. William of Ockham Who was he? William of Ockham (or Occam) was born in the village of Ockahm in Surrey, England in about 1280. He studied at Merton college and may have had John Duns Scotus as a teacher.

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What did he do? Ockham taught at Oxford from 1310 until 1324, when he was called to the papal court at Avignon to answer charges of heresy. When it looked as if the decision was going to go against him, he entered into the protection of the Holy Roman Emperor, Louis IV. What is he best known for? Ockham denied the right of popes to exercise temporal or political power, or to interfere with the same. He wrote a number of tracts defending the rights of the state against those of the church, and is sometimes called the first Protestant. Ockham advocated a reform of Scholasticism in method and content, toward simplification. This philosophical principle is best known as Occam’s razor, which is often expressed, “All other things being equal, the simplest solution is the best.” This is also sometimes called the law of parsimony.

Meet the theologians:

Father Stevens

Father Schoenstene

FAITH interviewed Father Gladstone Stevens, who is vice-rector of St. Mary Seminary, Baltimore; and Father Robert Schoenstene is a Scripture professor at Mundelein Seminary in the Archdiocese of Chicago.

If God has a plan, what does it matter what I do? Are we really free or is life predetermined? Father Schoenstene: The plan is salvation. That’s our destiny;

THROUGH the dark night I wander on alone, And, as one blinded, grope my weary way, Without a lamp to shed its guiding ray; I wander on unseen, and seeing none, And caring to behold but only One. I see not, yet my heart will give me light, And safer than the noonday sun will guide To where the Bridegroom waiteth for the Bride; So walking on in faith and not by sight, I cannot fear but He will guide me right.…

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are you a heretic? What do you believe about Catholic dogma and doctrine? Do you believe: a. t hey give us knowledge of God and the supernatural? b. they can change over time to meet people’s religious needs? If you answered “b”, you may want to do some reading on the modernist heresy, which was denounced by Pope Pius X. In this heresy, our only knowledge of God is found in subjective religious experiences, which are binding only on the person having them. Principal proponents of the modernist movement were Father Alfred Loisy and Father George Tyrell. that’s what we’re made for. The problem is getting there. To exercise our freedom, we can choose or reject all kinds of things – stations in life, for example. I was told by the Adrian Dominican Sisters in grammar school that God probably has a number of different vocations he is offering you, a thought rooted in Thomas Aquinas’ writings. Thomas says God knows what can occur in the future because there are a number of possibilities. For a Catholic, life is not predetermined. John Calvin would disagree. He opts for God’s omnipotence over free will. According to him, we are determined, even to the point of salvation and damnation. The church rejects that. The Catholic view is a little messier. Somehow, God’s plan works out and yet, somehow, we’re free. What’s

nice about this is that modern science has shown there is all kind of randomness, so in a sense the whole universe has this freedom built into it. We’re sort of the symptoms of creation. Yet, somehow it all works. At least most of the time. So, does it matter what you do? Yes, it does – for your happiness and for other people’s. The choices we make do matter – they determine what we’re going to do with our own lives and others. This also includes moral matters. Sin is an offense against God’s creation – it breaks the world in a little way. It’s not supposed to be – we have the freedom to do it, but it’s not what God wants. That’s the biblical notion of it – sin harms creation.

Trefoil The trefoil is generally formed of three interlinked circles, sometimes encompassing a triangle. It is often thought to be a representational version of the shamrock, St. Patrick’s famous teaching tool for the nature of the Trinity

Father Stevens: Aquinas dealt with this problem as well. He

Bible Quiz

Where in the world … Sometimes this land’s name is used simultaneously with its ancient neighbor’s, Israel. But this land was the Southern Kingdom for descendants of Jacob, and it is named for one of his sons. It became a nation after the death of Saul, when its residents wanted a king and named David for the job. This kingdom remained intact long after Israel fell to the Assyrians. What is it?

Turn to page 30 for the answer

said that if God knows what we need, and what he will accomplish ahead of time, then what’s the purpose of prayer? Doesn’t that render prayer futile? Aquinas’ answer is ingenious and is the most satisfactory – God has a plan that will eventually be accomplished. And God has willed that some things will come about because of our prayers. God works through our freedom; God works through our prayers to effect his providential plan. Aquinas says that this raises us to the dignity of being co-creators with God – we get to join in God’s causality. We’re talking about God’s freedom – not our freedom. We’re not talking about two free subjects in competition with each other – God is freedom. God is the font of freedom and our freedom comes from God. God effects his providential design through our freedom. The perfect example is the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Would we say Mary’s “yes” at the Annunciation is a setup because she is free of original sin? That’s not the case at all – grace empowers our freedom to give the kind of response Mary gives. This is what distinguishes us from double predestination, from high Calvinism and things of that sort – it’s not either human freedom or divine freedom. It’s that by abiding in God, we find our freedom. – Elizabeth T. Gennara

Solsburg

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Steve and Linda St. Amant had built a comfortable life together amid the farmlands and streams of their youth. In the spring of 2003, these childhood sweethearts had three nearly grown children: Marc and Laura, attending Western Michigan University, and David, who had just earned his driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license. The whole family was enjoying their newfound freedom, until the evening of May 30.

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By Nancy Schertzing Photography by Jim Luning

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The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. By still waters He gives me rest.

W While shopping that evening, Steve and Linda were paged to the mall office for an urgent phone call. The sheriff’s deputy on the line told them David had run a stop sign and collided with an oncoming van. He was being flown to the trauma unit at Bronson Medical Center in Kalamazoo – the nearest Level One Trauma Center. When Steve and Linda arrived at Bronson, David’s only obvious injury was a cut on his chin and an unresponsive condition. His clenched jaw and fists, however, signaled that he had suffered a severe brain injury. Within days, his balled fists were twisting into the fetal position and his foot dropped as his coma deepened.

on a cloud for some time, with deceased family members. I remember Grandma St. Amant’s grin and Grandpa Rehbein. They came to me in some order. Then I saw a big guy standing up. He didn’t say anything, but I knew it wasn’t my time. “I also remember being up north with our family, swimming and playing in the AuTrain River, like we do on vacation. I went under water but I could still see us all playing and having a good time. Then suddenly I was swimming through a watery tunnel for some time. Finally, I came to the surface. As I broke through, I took a deep breath of fresh air.”

Though I walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, I will fear no evil.

Comatose, David could feel his family’s loving presence – and something more. He explains: “I remember being

For You are with me. Your rod and your staff comfort me. “We didn’t know what we could expect when, or if, Dave came out of the coma,” Steve explains. “I don’t think anyone knew – not even the hospital staff. At first,

we wondered if we had the strength to make it through. But the strength came.” Knowing that, despite his coma, David could hear them, the St. Amant family kept vigil at their youngest member’s bedside. Steve or Linda spent weeknights in his room and weekends at the local Ronald McDonald House. Laura, Marc and Marc’s fiancée, Angie, took breaks from their studies to be with their brother and parents – often spending nights snuggled together in the family’s room in the Ronald McDonald House. “It’s amazing how we came together as a family,” Linda recalls. “Everything else was so foreign, though. Once Dave was stabilized, they moved

Office of Persons with disAbilities The Diocese of Lansing’s Office of Ministry with Persons with disAbilities offers support, education, retreats and spiritual sustenance to persons with disAbilities and their caregivers. For more information, contact Joann Davis at jdavis@dioceseoflansing.org FAITH Magazine

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22 October 2008 | www.FAITHmag.com

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him to Mary Free Bed Rehab Facility in Grand Rapids.” “Eucharistic ministers there brought Communion to us twice a week. That just made all the difference.” Linda seems surprised as her voice cracks with emotion. “It’s hard to describe, but it was like a rope – a little piece of normal that drew us out of that bizarre world.” Tears flowing freely, Linda continues, “No matter what kind of day I was having, or Dave was having, the volunteer would come and we would say the Lord’s Prayer, then share in the Eucharist together. Things made sense for a few moments. It was probably the only time I felt at peace.” You have set a banquet before me and anointed my head with oil. My cup overflows.

W Within a week of the accident, Dave moved his toe in response to a pin prick. His family was ecstatic. “You get excited over the littlest things,” Steve explains. “The doctors told us purposeful movement was our goal, and here it was! After that, Dave just kept making progress.” “After Dave emerged from his coma, we basically had to teach him how to be,” Linda explains, “starting with how to relate to space. The first time the staff sat him up, David didn’t know how to sit straight or use his arms or legs to hold himself up. He just keeled over because he didn’t have any sense of space or his relationship to it.” “The mind is so incredible,” Dave interjects, “it can process information in so many ways! I basically had to return to my childhood way of learning – from speaking to walking. I even had to learn how to see again.” Steve nods in agreement. “When Dave came home, he could only give oneword answers because he had to train his diaphragm to push air out into his vocal cords. He’s come so far.” By December 2004 – just six months after his accident – David served as best man in Marc and Angie’s wedding. The next month, he returned to his high school for short intervals each day. Though he couldn’t perform at his former level, Dave seemed to gain purpose just from being in school. He traded his

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wheelchair for a walker, then his walker for a cane. In June 2005, David St. Amant walked unaided down the aisle at commencement ceremonies with his classmates to thunderous applause and many tears. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.

Today, David attends classes at Lansing Community College, pursuing his lifelong goal of following his father into the legal profession. While he still struggles with short-term memory and slow motor skills, David continues to make remarkable progress in transforming himself and his world. For example, through a program called Building Alliances for Disability Leadership (BAD-L) David is developing recommendations for educators in accommodating students with special needs. “Through my work with BAD-L I’m learning that instead of being quiet, we need to use our voices, because changes aren’t made until someone makes [their need] known. I hope to show educators and administrators it’s OK to use alternative teaching and testing methods, because brains learn and

BAD-L: Building Alliances for Disability Leadership The BAD-L pilot program, launched in the fall of 2007, introduces people with disabilities to sophisticated leadership skills and networking opportunities. Recognizing that leaders with disabilities are aging early and dying, BAD-L aims to increase the numbers of leaders with disabilities – both in the disability rights movement and in our communities. Its design reflects the leadership development experiences of current disability leaders across the state. BAD-L pairs mentors (with or without disabilities) who

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process differently.” Despite the obvious challenges his accident has caused, David has found countless blessings as well. “God wouldn’t make a mistake – only humans do that.” Dave explains, “There really are lots of good things about my accident!” “I see that all people are better and stronger when they can evaluate what’s really important and what’s not. I used to spend my free time playing video games, but now I would much rather be able to walk in the woods with my dog or go fishing with Dad. That recognition of closeness means so much.” “I have seen lots of people without strong families and I thank God my family didn’t allow me to be one of them. I felt I had a lot of upsets in my life. But now I just keep taking things as they come. I have to live Life for Life!” Dave smiles. Then he becomes serious. “People need to know they shouldn’t fear death,” he says clearly. “There is a heaven. I know. I’ve been there.” And I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. – Psalm 23

are active in various disabilityrelated issues with self-identified emerging leaders with disabilities who have some experience and desire to improve the lives of people with disabilities in Michigan. Each pair attends a series of day-long skill-building workshops and a series of half-day practice sessions, all built around established leadership development information and practice. Each pair identifies, designs and then leads a community project which becomes the small “laboratory” in which the emerging leader practices the skills s/he is learning. BAD-L is a partnership among some Michigan State University professors, the

Michigan Disability Rights Coalition and the Michigan Independent Living Council. It is funded as a pilot program through an MSU FACT grant, with matching funds from the two partner organizations. Questions about BAD-L should be directed to Melinda Haus-Johnson or Carolyn Lejuste at the Michigan Disability Rights Coalition, 4398 E. Lake Lansing Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823. Melinda@prosynergy.org or Clejuste@prosynergy.org.; or Pennie Foster-Fishman, Michigan State University, 125 D Psychology Department, East Lansing, MI, 48823, fosterfi@msu.edu.

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ost 23-yearolds are finishing up undergraduate classes and looking forward to work, or heading off to grad school. In that respect, Sister Mara Lester is no different than her contemporaries. In fact, her aspirations to become a doctor may be some of the most ambitious. Her road to Michigan State University has been a bit different, though. When she heard God’s call, Sister Mara didn’t want to wait. She will make her final profession of vows with the Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma in 2011 – when she is 28. Her youth – in her vocation – is what makes her stand out. But she’s never seen it that way. “I don’t see what I’m doing as weird,” she said. “I’m just listening to God.” Listening to God has not been a straight path for Sister Mara. Sister Mara describes her family as “Christmas and Easter Catholics.” She decided to come back to the church when a high-school friend called her out on her faith. “She said, ‘You call yourself a Catholic, but are you really? ’” Sister Mara says. “I was trying to find where my identity was – gymnast, track, honors classes, clarinet. It didn’t matter, it still wasn’t satisfying.” Mara began attending youth retreats and religious education classes. She learned more about her faith. “As I was in those (religious education) classes, I felt like I had been in a desert – this is what I had been thirsting for,” she says. Mara wasn’t alone in her conversion – she and her father came back to the church at the same time. Although her vocation was still a little blurry, it became crystal clear when the assistant director of vocations in her Minnesota diocese invited her to be a counselor at a religious vocations camp. During the camp, Mara learned FAITH Magazine

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The two vocations of Sister Mara

more about religious life in general and met many religious who exemplified exactly what she had been looking for. “I saw that they were happy in whatever they were doing – that happiness is what I sought. One of the women was a doctor and a nun. It just blew

The Religious Sisters of Mercy The Religious Sisters of Mercy (RSM) have their motherhouse in Alma. The name of their founder, Venerable Catherine Macauley, graces the Macauley Health System. One of the order’s principal apostolates is to the “poor, sick and ignorant” – primarily in the areas of health care and education. Many of the sisters are health care professionals; some, as Sister Mara hopes to be, are doctors. The Sisters’ Mercy Health Care Clinics are located in Alma; Jackson, Minn.;

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away the stereotypes that I had. They were having fun – and I had a new understanding of what it meant to live a religious life.” Sister Mara believes God guided her to this point in her life. As a premature twin, she always felt like her life was a

and Breuberg, Germany. Other sisters are seminary professors or teachers. The sisters follow the “little virtues” of Venerable Catherine, which are humility, kindness, simplicity, patience, trust , gentleness, courtesy and forbearance. There are four stages of formation to become a Religious Sister of Mercy: •P ostulancy: 12month period of initial formation that begins Sept. 8 each year. • Novitiate: At the beginning of this twoyear period, the sister

receives the habit and a religious name. She endeavors to live the vows of the order. • Temporary Vows: The first vows are taken for a period of three years, after which they are normally taken for another two. After that period, the sister may request perpetual vows. • Continuing formation: sisters are called to continual consecration through continuing formation. For more information, contact the Religious Sisters of Mercy at vocation @rsmofalma.org or call 989.388.2063. Visit www.rsmofalma.org.

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gift – and that she needed to give back because of it. During World Youth Day in Toronto, Mara became impatient. She was invigorated by the universality of the church and its youth. “Even though my relationship with the Lord was deepening, I was becoming more demanding in my prayers. I wanted God to show me: ‘Are you telling me yet, God?’” God answered. After a friend, who was a seminarian, told his vocation story, he asked her: ‘What about you?’ Mara knew it was God asking. “I discerned that I wanted to be in religious life,” she says. “I knew that if I went back [to regular college life], there would be an emptiness that wouldn’t go away.” She called the sister who inspired her and then visited the motherhouse in Alma that summer. “There was a joy and peace that I felt when I was there,” she says. Mara began to tell each of her family members about her decision. Everyone in her family was supportive. Her mother told her, “I always knew that you would be a sister.” Mara requested entrance to the Religious Sisters of Mercy of Alma at age 18. Her first assignment was to attend Michigan State University and major in pre-medicine. She graduated with a bachelor of science degree in May. Sister Mara’s hope is that she will be able to bring a different insight to medicine. Since she attends classes in her habit, she has encountered many questions about her vocation. “There are a lot of misconceptions about what religious life is,” she explains. “Our faith is not something to be ashamed of. My challenge is to grow in my faith and sometimes that means explaining it to others. “I listen. I pray. I don’t fret. I read Scripture. I can only hold on to Jesus Christ.” She’s willing to listen to what God has in store for her.

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n 2007, while in Honduras on a mission trip, Stephanie Curtis was painting walls one afternoon in a day-care center. Knowing that she was a nursing student, the day-care volunteers brought her attention to 7-year-old Noel, who could only speak a couple of words. “When his mother came to pick him up,” Stephanie says, I explained my concerns to her, and persuaded her to take him to a pediatrician I worked with in the mornings. The next day I went with her. As we waited at the hospital, I tried going though the alphabet with Noel. I was surprised by how many sounds he could make when encouraged, but some sounds such as the ‘s’, came out wrong. When the doctor examined him, he found that Noel’s tongue needed to be clipped, because it was inhibiting his speech. Next time I saw Noel at the day-care center, I asked him if he had the surgery yet. He squeezed my legs, looked up at me, and said ‘Sí,’ making the ‘s’ sound he couldn’t previously pronounce. It was amazing that all it took was a day of my time and now a little boy in Honduras is speaking.” Stephanie’s desire to help others is natural to her, according to her father Scott (himself a pediatrician). “She has always been compassionate, thinking of others before herself. Most kids went to Florida for spring break, but she ends up working with Habitat for Humanity or something like that.” When Stephanie moved to Ann Arbor, she noticed a request in the St. Mary Student Parish bulletin for help in the Hispanic-Latino ministry. “They needed teachers for the bilingual sacramental preparation program,” she recalls. “I had four years of Spanish in high school, so I joined up. I like to be where I feel needed, and they needed me. “I taught the second- through sixth-graders for three years, then became coordinator of the program for those grades in 2005.

how do you say Stephanie started a Spanish religious education class Now I handle registration, lesson planning, and catechist training. In the fall of 2006, I helped start a pre-confirmation class for middle-school students, kind of like a catch-up class. Many of these kids never had religious education because they moved frequently or couldn’t find a program in their language. Parents meet at the same time as the children, and study the same material at an adult level. The parents’ class has been vital in building community among the Latino families in our parish. Stephanie also recruits catechists for the student-run program. Stephanie says that “The universality of the Catholic Church – that every day, in nearly every corner of the world, Catholics gather to celebrate Mass – is a motivator for me. The languages may differ, but the words are the same. I can’t describe the joy of introducing these children to the love of Jesus and the welcoming arms of their church family. “To the families in our program, God and faith are real. The church is important to them. The church makes people better. I like to tell the kids over and over in the sessions on reconciliation, ‘God loves you. God forgives you.’ Jesus is our model. He was a teacher and healer; that’s what I am trying to be.”

For information about campus ministry, and other programs for young adults, contact Pat Rinker at the Diocese of Lansing, prinker@dioceseoflansing.org. Vist the Web at www.DioceseOfLansing.org. By Bob Horning | Photography by Tom Gennara FM1008 layout copy.indd 25

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These brothers jam for Jesus

he Schmit boys always have been a band of brothers. But the four brothers – Joe, Andrew, Daniel and David – didn’t truly become a band until they discovered the baby of the bunch could sing. After tinkering together with music for most of their lives, the brothers decided to record a CD of their favorite worship songs as a present to their parents. Little did they know God had a gift for them, as well. Though they each took turns singing on the raw recording, one voice was consistently and clearly superior. It belonged to Daniel Schmit, who is the youngest of the Catholic family’s seven siblings. “When we listened back to it, we FAITH Magazine

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were like, ‘Wow, I don’t think the rest of us should sing any more,’” said Joe Schmit, who plays guitar and piano and writes most of the group’s songs. “That’s what made the band take off. It’s been a blast.” And an unexpected blessing for brothers who jammed in garage bands, led worship at youth ministry Masses and dreamed of playing music together for a living. That seemed like a long shot as adult life brought day jobs, families

and responsibilities. But in a whirlwind of opportunity that started less than two years ago, Thicker Than Water was formed by linking Joe and Daniel (who also plays piano) with brothers Andrew and David, both of whom play drums and bass. The foursome landed a deal with Canton-based Mediatrix Records and recently released its debut CD, Canyon. Even the Schmits remain awed by the spotlight God has granted them. “Where we are now, I couldn’t have imagined,” Andrew says. “I hoped we could do something musically like this. But I never thought it would happen.” The Schmit brothers grew up in Flushing in a home filled with faith and music. Their father, Peter, plays piano and guitar and is the former music director at St. Joseph Parish in

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Eventually, the four future members message about faith. of Thicker Than Water made an album “Because we were raised with a strong to thank and honor their parents for faith background, it flows naturally bringing music into their lives. The out of the way we write,” Andrew says. record was raw. But it revealed Daniel’s “The songs talk about our relationpotential as a singer and stirred posship with God, our experience daily sibilities of what and how prayer the brothers shapes us and We didn’t really have a might accomforms us to make game plan when this startplish together. us who we are.” ed. About the Playing together same time, was the fun part. Andrew got a call The brothers from Mark Casay their natural brera, the owner chemistry alof Mediatrix, a lowed for both fledgling Catholic record label that brutal honesty and patience while was searching for studio musicians. working through tunes in the studio. Instead, Andrew suggested he and “It comes easy,” says Andrew. “When his brothers as a potential headline we’re playing, we can give each other act. After a successful audition, they a look and we know what the other signed with Cabrera in May 2007 and is thinking. It’s an interesting mix, an Thicker Than Water was born. The interesting bond, and it does help our name, of course, is a dual reference to music.” their shared blood as brothers and the Thicker Than Water played its first live redemptive blood of Christ. concert in May at St. Pius X in Flint. “We didn’t really have a game plan About 250 people listened to a set list when this started,” says Joe, a product that featured the entire Canyon album manager for an insurance company and a cover of a Newsboys’ song. who lives in Holt. “God got it this “The butterflies were there,” Andrew far, which is a lot further than we says with a chuckle. “We prayed and thought.” just gave it all to God. We got some Thicker Than Water made Canyon over good feedback. People were pleasantly the course of a year, squeezing two surprised with the sound and the muor three Saturday recording sessions sic. We definitely want to improve.” per month into their family and work They have plenty of opportunities, schedules. The sound was inspired by with shows planned in Ontario, Livorockers such as U2, Coldplay and the nia and Flint and more dates anticiRed Hot Chili Peppers – and Christian pated after the release of Canyon. artists such as The Newsboys. Joe says, “If the CD opens the door Joe was the creative force behind to playing bigger places and spreading Canyon, penning the lyrics and nearly His word, than we’re happy with that.” all the music. None of the brothers is planning to “In general, the songs come out of my quit his full-time job – yet. But they’ve life experiences,” Joe says. “I don’t know already come further than they envithat I’m always looking to write a relisioned, quicker than they imagined. gious song, but they all have that focus Thicker Than Water is poised and ready just based on my beliefs as a Catholic for God’s next number. Christian. A lot of the songs are about “We’re open to anything,” Andrew giving God control and maybe some of says. “If it gets big, God bless it. If it the struggles people have as Christians. fizzles, God bless it for the opportunity I just find a good tune, a subject comes we had the last two years. We’re trying up and I kind of go with it.” to do this for God. We hope it’s going But all the brothers had a hand in somewhere where we can make an shaping a debut packed with imagery, impact and inspire people just as we’ve emotion and, most important, a strong been inspired. It’s exciting.”

God got it this far, which is a lot further than we thought.”

Howell. Their mother, Joan, plays piano and accordion. As a result, it seemed there was always an instrument around for their seven children to pound, pick or pluck. All the siblings learned to play the piano and the family often played and sang together. “They always kept music a part of the home,” Joe says. Over the years, the Schmits played in different combinations at home, with buddies in bands and at Mount Zion in Flushing. Even as the family fanned out to colleges and jobs, music helped the brothers maintain a strong bond. “We were kicking around some ideas of what we could do with our music,” says Andrew, who teaches and coaches at Flint Powers High School. “We thought we might be able to play at some churches, maybe lead some youth Masses.”

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If it tastes like

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was recently going through my children’s toy box to weed out all of the cheap trinkets they’ve accumulated over the last year. To my horror, I couldn’t count on one hand all of the McDonald’s Happy Meal toys they had collected in that time. It occurred to me that for every toy chucked into the garbage, four pieces of preservative-laden Chicken McNuggets were consumed by each of my kids. The number was staggering. I suddenly felt like a horrible, slacker mom for feeding all of that garbage to them. I felt like I needed to take a hard look at the value of my vocation as a mother. I asked myself a simple question. Am I looking beyond what is convenient for me to selflessly meet the needs of my family? When I was a kid, it was rare for my folks to even take us out for fast food. When they did, it was considered a treat. Today, as a busy mom, it is a no-brainer to make a beeline for the drive-thru on a day jammed with appointments, errands or whatever. The bottom line is that it’s convenient. Period. Today, we moms and dads are being “spoon fed” whatever is convenient to accommodate our busy lifestyles. But is convenience getting in the way of sitting down at the table as a family? Or mealtime prayer? Or just spending more quality time with the kids? So how do we reconcile our fast-paced lives with the core needs of our family? There is no magic-bullet, but here is something that can help. It doesn’t come with a made-in-China plastic toy, but these chicken tenders are easy to make, every bit as tasty, and far more healthful for your kids. They might seem a little less convenient because you’ll have to wash a pan and bowl when you’re done, but a little inconvenience for me is a lot better for the kids in the long run! Preheat oven to 350 degrees In a large plastic zip-lock bag, combine bread crumbs and parmesan cheese. Set aside. In the other bag, combine flour, garlic salt and pepper. Set aside. Place a few tenders at a time in flour mixture bag and shake until the tenders are coated. Remove and dip into a small bowl of whisked egg and olive oil mixture. Gently shake off excess and place into bread crumb mixture bag and shake until they are coated. Repeat this process for remaining uncoated tenders. Place all tenders on large baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Lightly drizzle olive oil on the tenders and bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes (or until cooked through).

Quick and Easy Chicken Tenders • 1 lb of fresh chicken breast tenders • 2 cups Italian seasoned bread crumbs • A handful of finely grated parmesan cheese • 1 cup flour • 1 teaspoon garlic salt • 1 teaspoon black pepper •1/2 cup olive oil • 1 egg

More ideas: Disguise it as carryout. Place the tenders in disposable carry out containers. You will save a clean dish or two and add a fun element for the kids (These containers can be purchased at any large arts and crafts chain).

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things to do: St. Mary Catholic School in Pinckney will host the Children’s Clothing Exchange Oct. 10-11. More details at http://school. stmarypinckney.org. St. Joseph Parish, St. Johns 100th Anniversary Celebration with Bishop Boyea. All Masses on Oct. 25-26. Protecting God’s Children Awareness Sessions for Adults: Oct. 13, 6:00 p.m. at St. Paul, Owosso; Oct. 16, 6:30 p.m.at St. John, Davison; Oct. 19, 11:15 a.m., St. John Student Parish, East Lansing; Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m. St. Andrew Parish, Saline; Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Ann Arbor; Oct. 26, 12:15 p.m., Sacred Heart Parish, Hudson; and Oct. 29, 6:30 p.m., St. John Student Parish, East Lansing. Pre-register for a session at www. virtus.org.; please do not call the hosting parish to pre-register. Oct. 19, is the Annual Family Day with Bishop Boyea. Persons with DisAbilities, Catholic deaf and hard of hearing and their families throughout

the diocese are invited to celebrate Mass with bishop and parishioners of St. Mary Cathedral. Mass is celebrated at noon followed by a luncheon in St. Mary Parish Center. RSVP by contacting Joann at 517.342.2497 or jdavis@dioceseoflansing.org by Oct. 12. Holy Rosary in Flint will host a parish mission, Do This In Memory of Me Oct. 19-21, 7 p.m. The presenter will be Father Larry Delaney. Hospitality will follow the one-hour presentation each evening. All are welcome. For more information, call 810.736.4040. Youth Jamboree is Nov. 2 at the Lansing Center for all high school youth. For more information contact your parish youth minister. View the jamboree brochure at www.dioceseoflansing.org/youthministry/brochure08bW.pdf. Holy Redeemer fall two days “scrapbooking crop,” Fri., Nov. 14, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m., cost $10, and Sat., Nov. 15, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., cost $40. For reservations. Call Lorraine at 810.733.2889, evenings only. The annual women’s

conference, Empowering Women to Make a Difference in the World: Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Mulieris Dignitatem (On the Dignity and Vocation of Women) is Oct. 25, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Macomb Community College Sports and Expo Center. For information and to register, please contact womensministry@aod.org or call 313.237.580. St. Francis of Assisi’s annual Business Breakfast Forum, Growing Your Faith at Work is Fri., Oct. 24, 7-8:30 a.m., at the parish, 2151 Frieze Ave, Ann Arbor. For more information, contact coordinator Nick Synko at 734.332.8800 ext 213, or nsynko@SynkoAssociates.com. Open to the public. A Retrouvaille Retreat is being held Oct. 1719 at St. Francis Retreat Center, Dewitt. This retreat is for troubled marriages. For information call Retrouvaille of Lansing at 517.290.5596. We Care Seminars, Oct. 12, 3-6 p.m., at St. Gerard’s Parish Center and, Oct. 14, 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the Catholic Diocese’s Madonna Hall, Lansing.

Weber Center The following programs are sponsored by Weber Retreat Center in Adrian. Program descriptions are on the website www.webercenter.org. For more information or to register, please call 517.266.4000. Radical Amazement: Responding Contemplatively to the Universe Story Retreat; Oct. 10-12, Fri., 7:30 p.m.–Sun., 1 FAITH Magazine

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We Care is a Christian communication program required for all engaged couples preparing for marriage. For information or to register, please call Catholic Social Services of Lansing, 887.8580 or Margaret Grima, Diocese of Lansing, 342.2558. REFRESH Weekend for singles age 21-35, will be held in Howell, Nov. 7-9. For more information, feel free to contact: Michelle: 810.923.9904 or Luke 734.646.5259. St. Paul, Owosso will host its Harvest Weekend Oct. 10-12. Food, silent auction and live auction, euchre tournament, raffle tickets and more. Proceeds will be used for the youth of the parish and school. For more information call 989.723.4277. Sat., Nov. 8, 2008, 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Praying with Body, Mind and Spirit: Listening to God. Cost: $45. Location: St. Paul of the Cross Retreat Center, 23333 Schoolcraft, Detroit. Registration: Phone: 313.535.9563. For more information on retreat day, contact Janene Ternes at 734.429.7754, PrayerInMotionJT@aol. com or at www.prayer-inmotion.com.

p.m.; (Includes 3 meals on Sat., Sun. breakfast and lunch)

St. Francis Retreat Center REFLECT, Oct. 31-Nov.2, is for and about single adults, 30 – 50, or adults, 20 – 55, who are divorced or widowed. For more details, visit www.reflectsingles.com. To register for the retreat, contact the St. Francis Retreat Center toll free: 866. 669.8321

Answer to Bible Quiz (page 18): Judah 9/22/08 5:17:14 PM

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October café events

Dear Student –

Wednesday Morning Bible Study of St. Paul’s Letters to the Romans and Galatians will be offered at St. Thomas Aquinas, East Lansing, 10-11:45 a.m. For information or registration, call Carol Ann Wilkinson at 517.351.6841. Adventures in Revelation will be offered at St. Thomas Aquinas, East Lansing, on Wed. evenings, starting Oct. 1, 7 p.m.-8:40 p.m. An 11-session program to study in-depth the Book of Revelation. For meeting dates and information call Joe Reynolds at 517.351.5460 or e-mail at jreynolds@stachurch.net. St. Joseph Shrine, Brooklyn, Oct. 30–Dec. 11, six weeks Scripture study, Introduction to the Bible, using Little Rock Scripture Study. For information and to register, call 517.467.2106. New Spiritual Formation Program for Lay people; is an exciting new spiritual program and offers an opportunity to study and discuss the five essential components of Christian living: Jesus, Discipleship, Prayer, Baptism and Eucharist. St. Joseph Parish in St. Johns is forming groups now. Sessions are 6 weeks. For details, call the parish office at 989.224.8994; or e-mail KimberlyGreenburg@gmail.com. The Great Adventure 24 Week Bible Study will be offered at St. Martha, Okemos on Sun. evenings, 6:15 p.m.–8:15 p.m., Sept. 21 to April 26. To register or questions, please contact Katrina Iamarino at 517.347.3353. The Realities of Same-Sex Attraction will be presented at St. Joseph, Howell, on Sat., Oct. 25, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Lunch will be provided. RSVP required. To register call Catholic Charities at 517.342.2465.

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Faith, Citizenship and Political Responsibility will be presented at St. Francis of Assisi, Ann Arbor on Wed., Oct. 15, at 7 p.m. in the parish activity center. For information and to register call Marty Lucas at 734.821.2125 or mlucas@stfrancisa2.org. Called to Live in Christ: Growing in Daily Spirituality will be offered at St. Joseph, St. Johns the first week of October. Groups are forming now for the six week series on prayer. For information call the parish office at 989.224.8994.

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Where’s God in your life? Seeking understanding is what you are all about as a college student – seeking understanding not only for your own sake, but so that you might well serve others around you whom you shall encounter in your life’s journey.

ear College Students, You are in college to engage and expand your intellect in many areas – not only in your chosen field of interest, but in many other disciplines of knowledge that will as well bring you into well-rounded intellectual development. What, then, of your faith? For many years in my life as a Catholic priest, I have ministered to college students, along with professors and staff persons. I challenged them with the notion that faith is a reasonable act. Faith and reason are twinned. For I know that faith is an act of reason – it is a reasonable thing to believe. St. Anselm (1033-1109 A.D) was a monk, abbot, philosopher, theologian, archbishop of Canterbury and doctor of the church. He is one of the Catholic Church’s great teachers and intellectuals. A very famous quote of his is: “For I do not seek to understand that I may believe, but I believe in order to understand. For this I believe – that unless I believe, I should not understand.” It is popular these days to assert that true intellectuals should critically doubt everything, particularly religious beliefs. Popular maybe, but shallow. One of the greatest minds in our day was that of Pope John Paul II. One of his most celebrated pieces of writing was Fides et Ratio, written in 1998. No one can accuse him of lack of depth in his thinking. Nor can St. Augustine, St. Thomas Aquinas, or hundreds of other “greats” in Christian history be so accused. Seeking understanding is what you are all about as a college student – seeking understanding not only for your own sake but so that you might well serve others around you whom you shall encounter in your life’s journey. This privilege charges you with a responsibility – the responsibility of understanding why you believe what you believe and of understanding why the Catholic Church proposes what it does for our belief and our salvation. Your years in college are an adventure – an adventure involving your intellect’s growth and development. Those years for you should also be an adventure for your faith – faith in the God who wants you to love him with your heart and your mind. Giving honor and glory to God is an act of your mind that expands your heart’s love for him. The things of the Spirit are the things of the mind and the heart – the two lungs that breathe in life for you. While it is true that the heart has its reasons the mind knows not of, it is likewise true that the mind has reasons for which the heart hungers. May your college years expand and fill your spirit with the breath of life. – Father Charles Irvin

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Gambling: What do you think?

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Three ways to experience monastic life Do people go right to heaven or wait until the end of time?

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A nnual evangelization appeal

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