•
1
s sue1
www.FAITHmag.com 1www.FAITHteen.com
December 2009
c e l e b r a t i n g
1 0
y e a r s
•
1 0 0
i s s u e s
11/30/04
Page 1
January/February 2005
6:44 PM
$2.50
www.FAITHmag.com | www.FAITHteen.com
FM0109 layout-front.indd 1
FM0108 layout-CUT.indd 1
12/22/08 11:01:52 AM
12/11/07 5:32:07 PM
12/7/05 2:52:38 PM
FAITH’s most popular columnist tells his story
from Joe to Fr. Joe
from friendship to marriage from full house to empty nest from work to retirement
4 stories: life’s transitions
Work and faith. How important is it to understand others’ religions? p 9 I say, “Just do it.” My child says, “No way.” Now what? p 11 Was Jesus really human or did he just appear that way? p 12 Is God punishing me? How do we deal with tragedy and pain in our lives? p 24 Points in heaven versus pounds on hips – comfort foods get a makeover p 26
PLUS:
FM0106 layout-front.indd 1
FM0105 layout good5
2/8/05
11:02 AM
Page 1
r e p o r t
FM0309 layout-front.indd 1
Times are tough – what can we do?
s p e c i a l
FM0308 layout.indd 1
Do people go right to heaven or wait until the end of time?
Three ways to experience monastic life
Gambling: What do you think?
FM0305 layout2
j o u r n e y
Can you reason with a pre-schooler?
p a r e n t i n g
t h e
b i s h o p
2/10/09 4:34:55 PM
Welcome Home! The church’s arms are open to you
f r o m
2/5/08 3:09:28 PM
FM0409 layout-front.indd 1
An interview with Michael Landon, Jr.
F A I T H
2:19 PM
Page 1
e x c l u s i v e
2/28/05
FMBishop withpix2.indd 1
FM0405 layout2
j o u r n e y
I hate my son’s lip ring! How can I get him to take it out?
p a r e n t i n g
b i s h o p
Kellie Dean of Dean Transportation
t h e
3/17/09 4:00:50 PM
Christ is risen, Alleluia! Easter greetings from Bishop Boyea
f r o m
2/27/08 3:59:47 PM
4/7/05
*FM0509 revised layout.indd 1
FM0408 layout-no.indd 1
JPII layout
2:12 PM
Page 1
4/15/09 5:03:23 PM
4/8/08 4:11:42 PM
10:58 AM
I am in pain. I just can’t do this job anymore
FM0609 layout-front copy.indd 1
Page 1
j o u r n e y
w o r k
l i f e
t h e
5/20/09 2:34:39 PM
b i s h o p
Encouraging spiritual perfection
5/8/08 4:27:37 PM
how to protect your credit report romancing the years: second marriages ask first – speak second 5 steps to a closer relationship
m a r r i a g e
3 ways to turn coworkers into teammates
f r o m
www.FAITHmag.com www.FAITHteen.com
$2.50
How do I get my child to go outside to play?
p a r e n t i n g
June 2005
{ ... the divine power on which I can count is surely immeasurable. } – Pope Benedict XVI
l i f e
5/3/05
w o r k
FM0608 Boyea-layout.indd 1
LANSING
DIOCESE OF
OF THE CATHOLIC
THE MAGAZINE
FM0605 layout pdally
FM0709 layou.indd 1
FM0708 layout copy.indd 1
FM0705 layout.qxd
6/16/05
2:30 PM
Page 1
6/30/09 2:09:30 PM
8/11/08 6:05:00 PM
FM0909 layou.indd 1
FM0908 layout.indd 1
FM0906 layout back final.indd 1
September 2005
$2.50
8/4/09 4:34:46 PM
8/29/08 11:27:20 AM
8/1/06 1:26:33 PM
FM1009 layout GOOD.indd 1
FM1008 layout copy.indd 1
9/1/09 4:29:44 PM
9/22/08 5:06:18 PM
FM1109 layout.indd 1
parenting journey We had a baby, but lost our friends! What do we do?
FM1108 layout FINAL.indd 1
work life My company is illegally dumping toxic waste. Do I report them?
Why am I proud to be Catholic?
Faith on the courts
Meet Michael Sullivan, winner of this year’s Father Charles Irvin Teen Essay Contest.
10/13/09 5:12 PM
Theology 101 What can we learn from the universal church?
10/21/08 3:02:06 PM
1
A day in the life of Father Mark Inglot
What’s it like to be a priest?
Played for the pope at World Youth Day.
What Psalm6teen did on summer vacation –
Andy Herman and Michael Repovz played against each other for the state championship.
FM1208 layout.indd 1
11/19/08 3:44:10 PM
4 T. Gennara
… our journey in FAITH
continues @
E
Father Dwight Ezop is editor of FAITH Magazine and pastor of the Catholic Community of St. Jude. E-mail: editor@FAITHmag.com.
from the editor
very now and again, I wonder, “How many times have I celebrated Mass?” Or I might wonder about the number of times I have helped to share God’s mercy and healing through the sacraments of reconciliation and the anointing of the sick. What about weddings, funerals or first communions? By now I have lost count of these, but suffice it to say, there have been many such celebrations and they have been opportunities for me to grow in God’s grace and to share God’s grace with those around me. How many stories of God’s enduring presence have graced the pages of FAITH since its beginning 10 years ago? I suppose one could sit down and count them all, but other than providing an interesting piece of trivia, I’m not sure what that would show. Instead, I like to reflect about how, over these 10 years, we have sought to stay true to the original vision for FAITH that was articulated by Bishop Carl Mengeling, our founding publisher, and Father Charlie Irvin, our founding editor-in-chief. FAITH began with a simple idea: tell stories of faith using words and
pictures. Jesus used stories and real human experiences to tell and teach about the goodness of God. Surely there are still many such stories that can be told. In telling these faith stories, people have the opportunity to witness the presence and action of God in a deeply personal way, hopefully seeing our relationship with God as not one that is distant or impersonal, but rather, living, dynamic and approachable. Our goal has been not only to tell stories of faith, but also to build relationships that are centered around our faith. In telling these stories, we have said good-bye to
A Decade
T. Gennara
of FAITH @
I
Elizabeth Solsburg is editorial director of FAITH Magazine. She can be reached at esolsburg@FAITHcatholic.com
t has been such an honor for me to edit FAITH Magazine for the Diocese of Lansing. As I read the first drafts of the stories you see in our pages, I have sometimes laughed and often cried. I have been absolutely awed by the amazing faith so many of our story subjects have shared with us. From Dick Thelen, who survived the sinking of the USS Indianapolis in World War II, to Laurence Carolin, who has inoperable brain cancer, but who chose to give his Make-a-Wish money to AIDS victims – I feel as if I know them all. They have challenged my faith and changed my life.
old friends like Bishop Povish and welcomed new friends. We C e l e b r at i n g have come to 10 years understand God’s 100 issues love for us in both challenging and everyday circumstances. Hopefully, we have also helped one another to understand that we belong not just to particular parishes, but to something much larger and very beautiful: we are all members of the Body of Christ and we belong to Christ. Thanks for the 10 years just concluded. Thanks for letting us drop by your home 10 times a year for a visit. Thanks to all those who have so graciously shared their stories on these pages. Thanks to all those who continue to read and share these stories with family, friends, co-workers and total strangers. Thanks to Bishops Mengeling and Boyea for their support and guidance. Thanks to Father Charlie for getting this thing off the ground. Thanks to a very faith-filled and talented staff who keep writing, designing, crafting, sharing and trusting that we can tell these stories and help to bring about even deeper love for God. Ten years seems like a long time and a lot of stories, but we’re just getting started. And so, thanks be to God and to all of you, our journey in FAITH continues. This month’s cover story is our first cover story. When we published our brand-new magazine, Rachel was a brand-new person. She and her parents faced a lot of difficulties, but were sustained by their faith. Our magazine’s name reflects our reliance on that same faith – we pray that the words and images you see every month draw you – and all of us – into a deeper relationship with Jesus and his church. When I came to FAITH, a little more than five years ago, we published three magazines. Today, FAITH Catholic publishes 18 magazines. Our client dioceses and organizations all share a common mission – spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ. In our partnership with them, we find ways to tell Jesus’ story by telling the stories of everyday Catholics. Thank you for allowing us to share our FAITH with you.
Liturgical Calendar: St. Francis Xavier, priest December 3 | St. John of Damascus, priest and doctor of the church December 4 | St. Ambrose, bishop and doctor of the chur
5
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing
Most Reverend Earl Boyea PUBLISHER
Rev. Dwight Ezop
EDITOR AND CHAIRMAN
December 2009 • Volume 10: Issue 10
FAITH Catholic Patrick M. O’Brien PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Elizabeth Martin Solsburg DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING/ EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Joanne Eason Peter Wagner DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Michael Marshall DIRECTOR OF LITURGY PRODUCTS
Patrick Dally ART DIRECTOR
Lynne Ridenour
GRAPHIC DESIGNER/WEBMASTER
Janna Stellwag Abby Wieber
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
18
When we met Rachel Reedy, she was as brand-new as our magazine. Rachel and her parents had endured a lot – her mother’s bout with ovarian cancer and Rachel’s premature birth. Through it all, they were sustained by faith. Find out how Rachel and her family are doing now – as FAITH and Rachel celebrate their 10th birthdays!
inside this issue
DIRECTOR OF MINISTRY MARKETING
FAITH at 10! Catch up with our first cover girl.
Jillane Job EDITORIAL ASSISTANT
Nicole Ballinger GRAPHIC DESIGN INTERN
InnerWorkings
PRINT MANAGEMENT
Doug Culp Dcn. Tom and JoAnne Fogle Rev. Joseph Krupp Dr. Gelasia Marquez Dr. Cathleen McGreal Nancy Schertzing Sister Ann Shields Cari Ann Delamielleure Michelle Sessions DiFranco CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Derek Melot
PROOFREADING
Carlson Productions Tom Gennara James Luning (cover)
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
ADVISORY BOARD
FAITHTM (USPS 019993) is a publication of FAITH Catholic, Diocese of Lansing, 1500 E. Saginaw St., Lansing, MI 48906-5550. FAITHTM is a membership publication of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing and is published monthly except for February and August. To purchase a subscription, log on to FAITHmag.com. If you have a change of address, please contact your parish. Periodicals postage paid in Lansing, MI and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to FAITHTM, 1500 E. Saginaw St., Lansing MI 48906-5550. ©2009 FAITH Catholic. FAITH is a trademark of FAITH Catholic.
Most Rev. Carl F. Mengeling
A conversation with the father of “FAITH,” Father Charlie Irvin
Find out what our founding publisher has been doing since his retirement. Bishop Mengeling’s life has changed, but he is as busy and energetic as ever.
22
what you’ll get out of this issue
8
14
FOUNDING PUBLISHER
Rev. Charles Irvin
FOUNDING EDITOR
faithcatholic.com
31
FAITH’s first editor-in-chief also is retired – when he is not writing a monthly column for us, writing books and making videos. Find out more about our own Father Charlie Irvin.
24
7 work life How do I survive survivor’s guilt? – Nick Synko 7 money tip How can you improve your credit score? 8 culture Starry Night Christmas Punch – Michelle Sessions DiFranco 10 parenting
journey How do I help my children understand chronic illness and death? – Dr. Cathleen McGreal 11 marriage matters He says: “I love my wife, but my stepson has to go!” She says: “Even if he’s grown up, my son still needs me!” What do they do? – Deacon Tom Fogle and JoAnne Fogle 12 in the know with Fr. Joe What’s proper etiquette at Mass? – Father Joseph Krupp 14 Theology 101 How would you explain theology to a teenager? 16 spiritual fitness 4 exercises for the 4 Sundays of Advent – Sister Ann Shields 31 last word From one magazine to America’s fastest-growing Catholic publisher – the story of FAITH Catholic – Patrick O’Brien
6
from the bishop We answer the call to evangelize
rch December 7 | Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary December 8 | St. Juan Diego, hermit December 9 | St. Damasus I, pope December 11
columnists
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 Sharon Wimple
What does a retired bishop do? Bishop Carl Mengeling’s changing life.
6
“L
J. Carlson
ike the first witnesses of the Resurrection, Christians who gather each Sunday to experience and proclaim the presence of the Risen Lord are called to evangelize and bear witness in their daily lives…. Once the assembly disperses, Christ’s disciples return to their everyday surroundings with the commitment to make their whole life a gift, a spiritual sacrifice pleasing to God” (cf. Rom 12:1). These are the words of Pope John Paul II in his Apostolic Letter, Dies Domini: The Day of the Lord (#45).
We answer the call to
evangelize
from the bishop
Bishop Earl Boyea is the fifth bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Lansing.
Worship and evangelization – these two are tightly connected. The new missal (due probably in late 2011) will have four possible dismissals at the end of Mass. The deacon or priest will say, “Go in peace,” or “Go forth, the Mass is ended,” or “Go and announce the Gospel of the Lord,” or “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.” The last two best capture that link between worship and evangelization. Thus, when we respond to any of these with, “Thanks be to God,” we are taking on ourselves the mission to bring others to Christ, or bring back home those who have fallen away. Clearly, if we are to attempt to bring the Gospel to others, we must first be evangelized. Pope Paul VI wrote in 1975: “As the people of God which has been placed in the world and is often tempted by its idols, she [the Church] needs to hear constantly the proclamation of ‘the mighty works of God’ by which she has been converted to the Lord so that she may hear his call anew and be confirmed in unity.” (Evangelii nuntiandi, #15) In essence, will any of our neighbors come to believe in Jesus as their Lord if they do not see that he is, in fact, our Lord? Of course, with God’s abundant grace, others can come to believe even in spite of us and
our own behavior. But it certainly assists the process if we proclaim Jesus Christ in the world and if we practice what we proclaim. Paul VI adds: “These Christians will inevitably arouse a spirit of enquiry in those who see their way of life.” (#21) All of us, my sisters and brothers, are needed to be these witnesses. We know, however, that witnessing by our lives is not enough. At some point, we need to explain why we live as we do. It is because of Jesus Christ. St. Peter called it giving the reason for the hope that is in you. (I Peter 3:15) Before our neighbors can decide to live as we Christians live, they need to know and understand what this new kingdom is, what our new existence is, both in terms of the truths of our faith and the behaviors that flow from that faith. This means both for us first and then for those being welcomed back and also for those who have never followed Jesus that there is a conversion from the idols of this world. Pope Paul VI notes that this then leads to the evangelized one becoming an evangelizer: “This is the proof, the test of the genuineness of his own conversion. It is inconceivable that a man who has received the word and
surrendered himself to the kingdom should not himself become a witness C e l e b r at i n g and proclaimer of 10 years the truth.” (#24) 100 issues The aim of all this, of course, is to bring about the unity of believers. The Acts of the Apostles describes this so well: “These remained faithful to the teaching of the Apostles, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayers.” (Acts 2:42) As Bishop Arthur Serratelli of Paterson N.J., has noted, we will know we are doing something right when we faithfully hand on the tradition which has been handed on to us, when all we do leads to the community of the faithful and not to us being a bunch of loners, when we are led to worship God in the Eucharist as Jesus taught us and to be fed by his body and blood, and when we are able “to pray continually and never lose heart.” (Lk 18:1) My sisters and brothers, as you leave Mass this coming weekend, heed the command to go forth with a mission – to live the Gospel you have heard and eaten. This is the best way to welcome home those who have left us and to invite in those who are searching for salvation.
When the pope called on dioceses to find a new way to evangelize, Bishop Carl Mengeling pulled a new idea “out of the bag” – a magazine to present Jesus and his church in a way people could relate to. Bishop Boyea continues the mission of evangelization every month in his column in FAITH.
Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe December 12 | St. John of the Cross, priest and doctor of the church December 14 | St. Peter Canisius, priest and doctor of the church December 2
7
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
A
survivor’s guilt? @
Nick Synko can be reached at nsynko@synkoassociates.com
In your case, you are handling roughly 10 percent more work – I realize it is not likely a welcome answer, yet the way to “handle this well” is to be thankful for that with which you have been graced and to give generously to others who may not have as much. Aiding others who have less is the surest way to find the joy in the bounty of your situation. For example, have you asked others who are also burdened at work if there is something you can do to help? Have you kept an eye out for employment opportunities for which your former co-workers may be suited? Have you offered to take them to lunch to break up their routines? Have you asked them how you may help? Have you spent time praying for them? If you do not have as much free time at work as you formerly enjoyed, you may want to talk to and help someone who is about to lose his home to put it all in perspective. In our trying economic times, it is too easy to overlook Jesus’ command to love your neighbor, as yourself. In my personal life, I find that Jesus is always challenging me to look at things differently and to follow his command to love others, as he did, and as I should, and to be grateful to him for all he provides.
How can you improve your credit score?
In these times of financial uncertainty, a credit card can be a safeguard in case of a financial emergency. But having access to credit
depends in large part on your FICO credit score. Those ads with the singing pirate-waiters have a point – it’s important that your
score is good. So what can you do to keep your credit healthy? Most experts agree on a few tips: •P ay off debt – don’t just move it around. The lower your debt, the better. •D on’t close accounts as a strategy to improve your score – unless you are unable to resist using all available credit, in
21 | St. John of Kanty, priest December 23 | Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord December 25 | Feast of St. Stephen, first martyr December 26
money tip
L
ayoffs. High unemployment rates. Everywhere you turn, money – or lack of it – is in the news. What are some steps you can take to maximize what you have and plan for the future?
which case you shouldn’t have credit cards at all. •D on’t open a lot of new accounts quickly – that has a negative effect on your score. •C heck your credit regularly and make sure it’s accurate. If there are mistakes, address them immediately with the credit bureau.
work life
Your question comes immediately after I have read several articles about achieving work-life balance. I agree with the goal and the benefits generated with a balanced workload and life – as I am sure you would prefer. At the same time, I wonder how many people in today’s challenging economic times fall into the category of wanting any work, no matter how unbalanced the situation. I also thought of my grandparents, who worked countless hours on the farm during the Depression and were thankful for having chickens and cows, which produced eggs and milk, and fertilizer for the fields of vegetables they grew. I have pictures of them sitting on their front porch with many others sharing the bounty of their long hours of endless work and the beauty of the farm with their less fortunate friends from the city. My grandparents carried a tremendous workload and found more joy in the midst of it all as they shared his gifts.
How do I survive
T. Gennara
Q
My department at work was reduced by 10 percent. I feel guilty that so many of my coworkers have lost their jobs and I am still employed. I’m also feeling some resentment that I have to pick up all the extra work with no extra money. How can I handle this well?
8
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
Starry Night T. Gennara
Christmas Punch By Michelle Sessions DiFranco | Photography by Philip Shippert
I
t’s the official drink of the “Please join us for refreshments after Mass” Catholic fellowship hour. Its translucent color has earned a reputation for satisfying the eye in contrast to its environment – the pale yellow cinder block walls and brown tiles of the church basement. It’s the one “refreshment” that sits in the large glass bowl, positioned next to the stale chocolate chip cookies. Yes, I’m talking about the ubiquitous party punch we’ve all stood in line for at one time or another, at a first Communion or confirmation celebration.
culture
There are thousands of variations of the sugary sweet beverage, ranging from the red fruity kind with the floating marshmallows to the sparkling citrus with foamy sherbet (which tends to look a bit unappetizing after it’s sat out too long). Whatever the flavor, it has been quenching the thirst of parched party-goers for decades. As we approach the Christmas season, consider this recipe for your holiday celebration. It is yet another variation of the
universal party punch but with a visual twist; a little added garnish to remind us to also quench our spiritual thirst, as we anticipate in joyful hope the coming of Christ. The star-shaped oranges and apples are not just decorative, but intended as a symbol of the star that led the faithful to the place of Christ’s birth. And I promise you, the flavor of this punch is a lot less… peculiar… than the typical ‘after-Mass gathering’ variety. And oh, since this season offers an additional reason for celebrating – Let’s raise a glass to FAITH Magazine for 10 years of Catholic evangelization and spiritual direction. Cheers!
It is yet another variation of the universal party punch but with a visual twist; a little added garnish to remind us to also quench our spiritual thirst, as we anticipate in joyful hope the coming of Christ. Starry Night Christmas Punch Ingredients: • 1 3-ounce package of strawberry gelatin • 3 cups boiling water • 3 cups cold water • ¼ cup sugar • 1 can frozen lemonade • 1 can frozen orange juice • 1 2-liter bottle of citrus soda • 1 2-liter bottle of orange soda • 2 oranges sliced (1/4” thick) • 2 green apples sliced (1/4” thick) with seeds removed • Smaller-sized star cookie cutter (2.5 inches or less) In a large freezer/microwave safe
container, dissolve gelatin and sugar in boiling water. Add frozen lemonade, frozen orange juice and cold water and continue to stir until completely dissolved. Cover container and freeze overnight. Remove from freezer 1 hour before serving. Press cookie cutter into the apple and orange slices holding it firmly
More ideas:
down until outer pieces of fruit are gently removed. This will assure less breakage of the fruit shapes. Set aside. Right before serving, place semifrozen mixture in large punch bowl and break up into slushy chunks with wooden spoon. Pour sodas right over the slush mixture and place starshaped fruit slices in the punch. Enjoy!
Want it green? Make the following substitutions:
juice (2 total) • 2-liter bottle of citrus soda instead of orange (2 total) • Use star-shaped apples only
• Lime gelatin instead of strawberry • Frozen lemonade instead of orange
For added color, throw in ½ cup of drained maraschino cherries
Feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph December 27 | Feast of the Holy Innocents, martyrs D
December 28 | St. Thomas Becket, bishop and martyr December 29 | St. Sylvester I, pope December 31
9
10 T. Gennara
How do I help my children
understand chronic illness and death? Dr. Cathleen McGreal is a psychology professor and certified spiritual advisor.
Q parenting journey
One of our children has a chronic illness. Taking care of her is all-consuming. How do I make my other children understand?
A
A family is a system; changes in one part of the system mean that other family members must readjust. As an adult, you understand the implica-
tions of a chronic illness, but children have difficulty understanding due to their cognitive developmental levels. Personality comes into play, too. After all, even spouses prioritize in different ways when coping with illness. First, network with parents of other chronically ill children in your community. If you can, find a group through your parish – the faith component is an important part of support. Since reliable child care often is an issue, see if you can gather information about reliable
Q:
My husband’s mother died recently. She was the ideal grandma, and my kids are really grieving. How can I best help them through this difficult time?
A:
The ages of your children will have an impact on the way they grieve. Young children may wonder exactly “where” Grandma is. It can be confusing to “visit” Grandma at the cemetery and to know that she is now in heaven with Jesus. They may not realize that heaven isn’t a place we can go to visit and Grandma
Q
My wife and I went out for dinner in a nice restaurant the other night to celebrate our anniversary. This wasn’t a family-style place. It was upscale dining. We were really looking forward to it and had hired a baby-sitter for the evening. Unfortunately, the people at the next table hadn’t done the same. Their 2-year-old was crying, throwing food on the floor and generally acting the way you’re expecting a toddler to behave. It ruined a lovely evening for us; should we have said something?
A
Sorry about your ruined evening. I wonder how the
couple at the next table felt by the end of the dinner. I hope they realize that neither they, other diners nor
can’t contact them. Instead of one long conversation, effective answers often are short, clear explanations that follow casual comments. Making a memory book about Grandma can elicit comments and serve as a wonderful memento throughout the years. School events, such as Grandparents’ Day, can be challenging and your children can have the option of sharing their “Grandma Book.” If your children aren’t spontaneously expressing their grief, then libraries and bookstores have children’s books focusing on the death of a grandparent. Preview them to make sure that the theme fits your child’s developmental level and Catholic theology.
Do toddlers belong in
expensive restaurants?
Dr. Gelasia Marquez is a psychologist and family counselor.
their child had a good time. To answer your question: Yes, you should have talked to the manager. You could have told him you were celebrating a special occasion and would like your table moved. You might have to wait, but your evening would be salvaged.
Although Jesus said that the little children should come to him, he also instructed us to treat others as we would like to be treated. Before subjecting other diners to your child’s screams for an evening, stop and think if that’s what you would like accompanying your special meal.
S. Kendrick
what gets my goat
respite care or exchange child care. Second, seek local or Web groups specific to your child’s illness. Third, explain your family’s psychosocial needs, as well as the physical needs of your child, to your health-care providers; these need to be considered in long-term health plans. By finding respite care and greater social support, you should be able to schedule more activities with your other children.
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
11
“I love my wife, but my stepson has to go!” Ted says: Carol and I have been married happily for five years. At least, we were happy until Carol’s son, Jim, moved in with us six months ago after he lost his job. Jim doesn’t help around the house or try to find work – he does nothing but watch TV and collect unemployment benefits. Unfortunately, Carol seems to have regressed to when Jim was 10 – she does his laundry, lets him sleep in, buys his favorite foods. I can’t take having this overgrown little boy underfoot – he needs to grow up and move out!
“Even if he’s grown up, my son still needs me!” He said
| She said
Carol says: I love Ted, Deacon Tom Fogle and JoAnne Fogle help prepare couples for marriage. but he is being unreasonable about Jim. Jim is traumatized from losing his job; he needs some time to find himself. Really, I overcome. But, as husband and wife, we are called to become one don’t mind doing his laundry, and I love cooking “comfort food” in unity and flesh; that is our primary focus as a married couple for him. It’s been a long time since I’ve really been able to be a and that must be our priority. Jo says that Carol’s offer to her son mother, and I’m enjoying every minute of it – except Ted’s atwas very commendable, but since no boundaries were agreed titude. He needs to try to be a more loving stepfather. upon or stipulations made in the beginning, it has now become an emotionally charged issue. One of the first things that popped into our It is admirable that Carol desires to exercise her active mothminds is that Carol and Ted failed to really ering once again because that is a high calling from God. Jo communicate and discuss with each other believes that Carol wants her son to feel welcome because in the the impact this move would have on their “Mothers Handbook 101,” it says to nurture your children, even relationship prior to allowing Jim to move in. A second red flag adult children, through hard times and come to their rescue that appeared to us is that Carol, Ted, “and Jim” failed to discuss whenever they need it! the arrangement prior to Jim moving in. As both Carol and Ted We both believe that as husband and wife, Ted and Carol have discovered, it can be devastating to a marriage relationship should look deeper into their hearts and discern the possibilwhen communication between husband and wife is lacking. ity and viability that the fruits of their love be manifested in a Although not specifically stated, it appears that Jim was not child of their own. As for Jim, Carol should begin by setting previously (in Carol and Ted’s marriage of five years) a member some realistic boundaries that reflect his age, competence and of the household. In other words, he had already left home requirements associated with life – and ignore his desires to just when Carol and Ted were first married. If that is accurate, Ted is hang around the house and let “mother” take care of him. We correctly interpreting Jim’s continued presence now as an intruknow it is tough, but parents need to let their children grow up sion into the home he and Carol were in the process of establish- and experience both the good and bad associated with being ing. There is not an easy solution to this scenario because the independent. This is a great teaching moment for Carol and a dynamics involved are difficult to articulate without sounding great learning moment for Jim. Carol is the biological parent and childish, immature and selfish. After all, we are talking about is the one who should initially have the conversation with Jim. blood-relatives! If Carol finds it too difficult to have the conversation, then Ted Jo and I are more concerned about the relationship between and Carol can talk to Jim together. The ultimate goal here is to Carol and Ted, as husband and wife, than we are between Carol maintain Ted and Carol’s relationship. Attempting to live out the and Jim, as mother and son. Tom will admit however, there is a beatitudes and the corporal works of mercy should not come at strong biological bond between Carol and Jim that is tough to the expense of the vocation of marriage.
what do they do?
T. Gennara
your marriage matters
12 distribution of Communion. The priest did this to help people see their connection to the apostles and the unity of all people celebrating Mass. What a powerful image! Of course, this is not Send your questions to: “In the Know with Fr. Joe” FAITH Magazine, necessary anymore. You and @ 1500 E. Saginaw, Lansing, MI 48906 Or: JoeInBlack@priest.com I are used to the practice of a priest, not the bishop, celebrating Mass. But the rite of commingling has stayed in Greetings! In this special edition of my column, the Mass. Watch the priest while we’re singing Lamb of God. I’m going to try to cover a few “Liturgy etiquette” When he breaks off that small piece of the host, he says questions. “May this mingling of the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ bring eternal life to us who receive it.”
Dear Fr. Joe:
T. Gennara
What’s proper etiquette at Mass?
Q
When I drank from the cup at Communion last week, I saw a soggy piece of something in the bottom of the chalice? What was that?
That was a particle of a consecrated host. During the Mass, the priest broke off a small piece of the host and placed it in the chalice. Now, why would he do that? As I researched, I discovered an amazing history to this practice. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did. As it happens, in early Christianity, there was only one Mass in each city or area. All Christians came together and celebrated with their bishop in one place. As Christianity grew and spread out geographically, the bishop needed to meet people’s needs, so he sent priests to go to other areas. When that priest went to the place where he was to celebrate Mass, he brought a small piece of a host that had been consecrated at the bishop’s Mass. This particle, the fermentum, was dropped into the chalice at the “commingling rite” just before the
in the know with Fr. Joe
A
Two explorers, camped in the heart of the African jungle, were discussing their expedition. “I came here,” said one, “because the urge to travel was in my blood. City life bored me, and the smell of exhaust fumes on the highways made me sick. I wanted to see the
Q:
I really dislike holding hands with strangers during the Our Father, but that’s what the priest suggests in our parish. Do I have to do this?
A:
I understand … let’s see if I can’t help. I looked around a bit on this and, interestingly enough, the only quote I could find from our bishops is that “there is no prescribed position for the hands during the Our Father.” What does that mean? Quite literally, you can allow personal preference guide you, within reason. With that in mind, what are your choices? As far as I can tell, you are afforded three options: 1. You can join hands with those around you. 2. You can hold your hands
sunrise over new horizons and hear the flutter of birds that never had been seen by man. I wanted to leave my footprints on sand unmarked before I came. What about you?” “I came,” the second man replied, “because my son was taking saxophone lessons.” Illustration by Bob Patten
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
in the orans position (hands extended out and/or up). 3.You can fold your hands together.
Christmas movies and
Christmas memories Read more of Paul Jarzembowski’s thoughts on www.spiritualpopcorn.blogspot.com
W
hat’s your favorite Christmas movie? Is it Holiday Inn, A Christmas Carol or The Bells of St. Mary’s? Or how about Elf or The Nativity Story? Maybe it’s watching Ralphie shoot his eye out in A Christmas Story, or perhaps it’s Clark Griswold putting up the lights in Christmas Vacation?
preciate new memories that come our way. In the Scriptures, Jesus tells us: “Whoever does not accept the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it.” (Mk. 10:15) This does not mean we have to behave like a little kid, but we need to be more open and aware of the people and places around us like a child takes in and treasures all the experiences of their world. Taking a moment to pause in our holiday routine can remind us how to look at the world through the wonder of a child’s eyes. In the classic movie It’s a Wonderful Life, George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart) was so focused on the details of the moment that he lived with a constant sense of regret for all the things he missed out on in life. He never paused to take a look at the people he met along the way or how much of an impact he had on his little community of Bedford Falls. It took little Zuzu to
Whatever movie is your favorite, there is bound to be some happy memories around it. When I was a kid, my family used to watch (and sometimes sing along with) Bing Crosby in White Christmas every year on Christmas Eve. So every time I see it again, it conjures up a bit of nostalgia as I remember my grandparents. Do the holiday movies you love to watch each December evoke images of Christmases past for you, too? Sometimes the memories are bittersweet, either because of loss or because life Will Ferrell stars in a scene from Elf. is no longer that simple or remind him, with a sense of awe and wonder, wonderful. Often those memories come from that “every time a bell rings, an angel gets its a time in our lives when we were younger and wings.” more open to those meaningful experiences. So, this Christmas, resolve to live in the presBut, as we get older, we can get so caught up ent, with a new awakening to the new memoin life’s pressures (or even holiday stress) that ries right in front of you. we might numb ourselves or forget how to ap-
spiritual popcorn
It’s interesting to look at various pieces of information about this subject and find various levels of “hardness.” Some priests and/ or theologians delight in portraying their opinion as the only correct choice, but the fact is, until the church makes a definitive statement, there is no option that is better than the other. If the priest celebrating Mass with you offers a preference, it’s good to give that some extra weight, in the same way that the priest should give a community’s tradition some weight. Let me give an example. I served as a high-school chaplain for years. When I first got to the school, I found that it was impossible for some of our younger brothers and sisters to hold hands during the Our Father without demonstrating their incredible “Kung Fu” grip. After my many reminders of the sanctity of that particular prayer bearing no behavioral fruit, I directed the students to stop holding hands during the Our Father. At the same time, the parish where I celebrated Mass during the weekends had a long-standing tradition of holding hands during the Our Father (usually without any instances of the Kung Fu grip), so I encouraged that. Don’t let anyone mess with your head on this: There is no position that the church prefers; go with what works for you. If you prefer not to hold hands, simply fold your hands together and pray. Thanks for your questions and enjoy another day in God’s presence!
13
14
How would you explain
theology to a teenager? Cardinal Justin Rigali is the archbishop of Philadelphia. He serves on many committees at the Vatican, and attended the Second Vatican Council. We are honored to ask this eminent Catholic churchman and scholar some questions about the Catholic Church in the new millennium.
Q
How would you explain theology to a teenager?
Theology is the explanation of what we believe. And when we explain to a teenager, or anybody, what we believe, we start with the person we believe in: Jesus Christ. So we explain who he is: true God and true man. We explain that he is the second person of the blessed Trinity. The Father, out of love for us, sent his Son into the world and his son teaches us. Christ is close to us because he not only shares divinity with his Father, he shares humanity with his mother and with us. And so the explanation begins with Jesus, and his message of love, and with the crucifix. A great missionary, St. Francis Xavier, when he arrived in Asia, used the crucifix as a great instrument of explaining the faith, theology and what we are all about. He showed thousands of people the crucifix and told them, “This is Jesus. He loves us. This is the Son of God who came into the world. He shares his life with us. This is how
theology 101
A
The power and vitality of the Christian faith have long inspired tremendous works of art on the part of believers. One has only to consider the beauty of many of our principal churches to realize the transcendent beauty of our faith. For example, consider:
Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe The name Basilica of Guadalupe (also Basilica of
Our Lady of Guadalupe, Basílica de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe in Spanish) refers to one of the two churches built on top of Tepeyac hill, north of Mexico City. The site is near the place where Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared in front of Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin. The new basilica is considered the second most important sanctu-
J. Zatko
Church of the month
ary of Catholicism (this based upon the number of pilgrims it hosts per year), just after Vatican City. It
houses the original tilma (or apron) of Juan Diego that shows the icon of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Thus it
A theology professor once remarked that there were no new heresies, just old ones repackaged. To test the truth of this statement, consider this recent reallife scenario and see if you can name the error involved:
What is wrong with books like The Secret? Many of the books that top the bestseller list, especially in the area of spirituality, promise to deliver the keys to unlocking unimagined abundance and to awakening dormant, unrealized potential for each and every reader. These books employ titles like The Secret, Seven Keys to “Insert Theme Here”, and Ten Things the World (The Vatican, we must live. This is what we must do. This is happiness.”
Q
Is there anything new we can learn about God?
Oh yes. Because God is infinite, and so loving, and so perfect, we will never be able to fathom or grasp him completely. And that is why, for 2,000 years, the church has been reflecting over and over again about God’s nature. While there are actually no new teachings of the church, there are developments of our own understanding of the beauty of what
A
is an important pilgrimage site and is visited by several million people every year, especially around Dec. 12, the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The basilica has seating for 10,000 inside the premises. However, temporary seats are often placed in the atrium that allow up to 40,000 people to take part in the Mass and other celebrations.
15
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
The Government, etc.) Does Not Want You to Know.
What is the truth? These books, as well as many movies, seek to take advantage of an almost subconscious Gnosticism that is ever present just below the surface in our society. They appeal to the Gnostic belief that salvation can be achieved through a “secret knowledge” available to a chosen few. It, in fact, denies the church’s teaching that God’s objective revelation to humanity has already been completed because Gnosticism implies ongoing “secret” revelations that need to be discovered or unlocked. This approach
to life also denies the claim that the truth of God’s objective revelation is universally accessible to all regardless of status, position, etc. Finally, it discards the Catholic understanding that the church is the ordinary means of salvation since it is God’s instrument of grace in the world. This understanding is undermined by a masked Pelagianism that suggests grace is not necessary for salvation – only secret knowledge is needed. The church’s authority as the interpreter of the revealed Word of God is also nullified in this attitude. Interpretation and communication of the “secrets” of abundance and eternal life are left up to the individual and/or the privileged few.
we know. For example, “true God and true man.” What does this mean? Well, the more we reflect, the more we grasp the inner meaning – the more we grasp the consequences, and the different aspects. It’s like looking at a diamond and there is a
different perspective depending on the way you look at it. So, this is the richness of God’s life, which we can never exhaust completely. But it is always there for us to enter in through prayer to understand more deeply, more completely, more totally.
What is at stake? Objective revelation (completed in the Apostolic Age) and the church as the authority in interpreting the revealed Word of God
Words of wisdom – can you complete the proverb?
Hate stirs up disputes, _______________________________
The Sacred Scriptures teach us “to get wisdom, to get understanding!” (Proverbs 4:5) Now it is time to put yourself to the test to see how far along you are in this quest by completing this proverb. Remember, no peeking into your Bible!
a. b ut the heart of the wicked is of little worth. b. but the just one is established forever. c. but love covers all offenses.
Origin: The old basilica was known as the Templo Expiatorio a Cristo Rey and its construction began in 1531 – though it was not completed until 1709. The tilma of Juan Diego was housed in this church from 1709 to 1974 and survived a bomb planted by an anti-clerical activist in 1921. The old basilica was sink-
ing as a result of the weakness of the ground, because the city was built on a former lake, so a new, more spacious basilica was built. The old one was closed for many years and repairs have recently been finished. It is now again open to the public. The modern basilica was built between 1974 and 1976 by the Mexican architect Pedro Ramírez Vásquez. It is a circular building
(Answer: c – Prov 10:12)
Are you a heretic?
constructed in such a way as to allow maximum visibility for the image to those inside. The structure is supported by 350 pylons that prevent the basilica from sinking with the rest of the ground.
Notable features: • The tilma – The original tilma of Juan Diego upon which the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared.
16
4 exercises T. Gennara
for the 4 Sundays of Advent
S
Sister Ann Shields is a renowned author and a member of the Servants of God’s Love. Questions can be addressed to Sister Ann Shields, Renewal Ministries, 230 Collingwood, Suite 240, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
spiritual fitness
omewhere between 1942 and 1945, my uncles made several visits home from the war front in France and Germany. Those times indelibly imprinted on my young memory; five long years of watching and waiting and hoping and praying – that our brothers and uncles, sons and friends would return safely. I was a young child during those years, but I have never forgotten what it was like when one of my uncles was able to come home on furlough. We’d get the news via a Western Union telegram and then a new kind of waiting and preparation began – the cleaning, meal preparation, the bedroom, the favorite things available (if they could be bought). Days before, an air of excitement permeated not only the house, but also the neighborhood. It seemed like “everyone” eagerly awaited his arrival. When the actual day arrived, everyone spent it – no matter where they worked or what they were doing – checking their watches or the clock almost moment by moment, re-examining train schedules and calling the station for any updates. An hour before the train was to arrive, we would gather at my grandmother’s house, hardly containing our excitement. I watched them all and saw how everyone was united in one great wave of happiness and eager expectation. Then someone, usually my father, would say, “It’s time.” Into cars we scrambled for the 10-minute ride to the station. My strongest memory is standing on the station platform listening for the train whistle. Everyone was quiet, watching and listening; every head was turned in the direction from which the train would come. As the train came into view, my dad would pick me up so I could see. With great noise and billows of smoke and steam, the train slowed, then stopped. My grandmother stood in the center of all of us; then the conductor opened the door, put down the stool and there he was – my Uncle Jim or my Uncle Max! Dad would lift me up high and eventually my uncle would spot me and grab me in a bear hug. I would think: He really is here! He really came home! What I’ve just described is what Advent should be for us spiritually. Don’t let this brief but spiritually packed season of grace get away from you. It is too precious, too full of God’s gifts, to miss.
Spiritual exercises Here are some spiritual exercises to help your Advent be spiritually fruitful. 1st Sunday of Advent: See Psalm 25: “To you O Lord, I lift up my soul. Your ways, O Lord make known to me; teach me your paths.” Then, look at 1Thessalonians 3:12 “May the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we have for you, so as to strengthen your hearts, to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ…” Take this first week of Advent and ask yourself some questions in light of these Sunday readings. • Do I seek to know and do the Lord’s will in my daily life? How can I grow in this area during Advent? Just choose one area to change or grow. • Is there a relationship where love is weak or broken? What can I do to improve the situation? Ask the Lord to show you one thing you could do or change or refrain from doing To seek the Lord’s will through his word, to grow in love in one relationship is a very concrete way of watching and waiting for the Lord so that your heart is more ready for him this Christmas. 2nd Sunday of Advent: See Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11. • Do you pray for those you love – regularly? • Do you ask God through his Holy Spirit to help you love him more? Address these two areas in your life in this second week of Advent. As you do, God will generously respond to your desire to grow in love. You will find new strength, new desire to follow Him.
17
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
The dark night of the soul
Saint John of the Cross
Feast Day: December 27
He helped St. Teresa to reform the Carmelite order.
In 1567, he entered the Carmelite order and was ordained. He helped St. Teresa of Avila reform the order and focused on a life of prayer Many of the monks were displeased with the reform plans, and John of the Cross was kidnapped by the members and locked away for nine months.
He was kidnapped by fellow monks and locked away.
While in his cell, he wrote poetry and books on prayer.
While in his cell, St. John wrote poetry and books of prayer. One of his most famous works was Dark Night of the Soul. – Illustrations by Chris Sushynski
3rd Sunday of Advent: Read Philippians 4:4-7 and Luke 3:10-18. I would call this third Sunday of Advent the “What should we do Sunday.” The crowds ask John the Baptist I guaranwhat they should do to prepare tee you, if for the coming of the Messiah, you reach out, you and he tells them “Be just in all your dealings, be merciful and will know Christ’s generous to the poor.” pleasure in you • Ask yourself – Am I? Is there and, even better, any way I am failing in these areas? What can I do or he will find, as a change? Try to make your deresult, more of a cision concrete in this week. home in your heart. Paul tells the Philippians: Joy and thanksgiving should characterize your dealings with others. The Lord is near. Be thankful! • Does your “house” reflect those desires? • What can you do or change to be more ready to receive him? Ask the Holy Spirit for strength and wisdom.
4th Sunday of Advent: Luke 1:39-45. Mary had just received a momentous, life-changing announcement. She could have used a little time for herself – almost any woman would feel that way – yet she traveled to the hill country to care for her older cousin, Elizabeth. We have almost a week – Christmas is not until Friday. Where do you need to forget yourself and meet the needs of another? I guarantee you, if you reach out, you will know Christ’s pleasure in you and, even better, he will find, as a result, more of a home in your heart. There is no joy in life greater than that. “Behold, O Lord I come to do your will.” • Am I able to pray that prayer from the reading to the Hebrews 10:5-10? Am I able to make that prayer my own? It is the Holy Spirit who prepares the house of our hearts and minds. If we ask, he will do the work. • Are you willing to make that surrender? God’s grace can work miracles if we assent. As someone once said to me, “The Holy Spirit is a gentleman. He only comes where he has been invited.” My prayer is that you will invite him more fully into your life this Advent; if you do, Christmas will find you rejoicing in the home of your heart, in the presence of a Savior who loves to save. A very merry and blessed Christmas!
saint of the month
St. John cared for the patients who were mentally ill.
Saint John of the Cross was born in Spain in 1542 to an impoverished nobleman and his wife. By the age of 14, John had taken a job at a hospital in Medina. It was there that he began sacrificing himself by caring for patients with incurable diseases and mental illnesses.
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
William and Janet Reedy, and their daughter Rachel, are old friends to FAITH Magazine readers. The family was featured in the cover story of the magazine’s inaugural issue in January 2000. At that time, Janet had recently survived a bout with ovarian cancer. She and William were beginning their journey as parents to Rachel, who was born about three months prematurely. The original story, which hangs framed on the wall of the Reedys’ Grand Blanc home, focused on the family’s unwavering commitment to Christ in the midst of challenging times.
Catching up with old friends is good for the soul. So we checked in on the Reedys, to learn how God has shaped their lives, individually and collectively, over nearly a decade. They’ve experienced many blessings, most notably the development of Rachel, who is now a happy, healthy 10-year-old. And they face new battles, such as the depression that plagues Janet and keeps her from working outside the home. But, most importantly, the Reedys are still together, experiencing life’s joys and hardships – and thanking God in all circumstances along the way. by Todd Schulz | Photography by Jim Luning
cover story
20 y faith remains strong,” Janet, 44, says. “We still have the same hopes and dreams for Rachel, and many have already come true. Everyone has challenges in life. Ours are not any more special or worse than the challenges everyone else faces.” That may be true. However, the Reedys hit a rougher patch than most starting in April 1997, when Janet visited a doctor, expecting to confirm that she was pregnant. Instead, the newly married couple was stunned to learn that Janet was suffering from ovarian cancer and needed surgery to save her life. Surgeons removed an 18-pound tumor from one of Janet’s ovaries. The procedure was successful and Janet remains cancer-free today. Roughly a year later, Janet became pregnant with Rachel. The Reedys knew Janet’s pregnancy would be high-risk given her medical history. Complications started about halfway to her New Years’ Day 1999 due date. Doctors theorized that Janet’s body was fighting the growth of the baby as if it were a tumor. After months of worrying and daily trips to the doctor, Rachel was born by emergency Caesarean section on Oct. 8, 1998, at just 28 weeks gestation. Doctors took the baby suddenly to protect Janet, who was in danger of bleeding to death. Both mother and daughter survived the surgery, though Rachel weighed just 19 ounces and measured 11 inches at birth.
The family spent four months at Flint’s Hurley Medical Center, where Rachel fought for life, surviving a bought with pneumonia and several other harrowing moments. “We almost lost her a couple of times,” William said. Eventually, Rachel began to add precious pounds of body weight and was finally allowed to leave the hospital on Feb. 4, 1999, after reaching 4 pounds, 3 ounces. The homecoming was a happy one. However, Rachel’s road to health was just beginning. For starters, her immune system was extremely low, meaning William and Janet had to keep her environment as free of germs as possible. That meant the family rarely went out for the first two years of Rachel’s life. Looking back, William wonders how his family endured
21 several years of stress related to Janet’s cancer and Rachel’s challenges. “When it was happening, we just lived for the moment and got through everything one day or one hour at a time,” William says. “Had I sat down and thought about it, then I might not have made it through. We dealt with it. “You have to have faith at moments like that. We knew God had a plan. We just had to make it through to find out what it was.” With the benefit of hindsight, William believes God used the trials to teach the Reedys an invaluable lesson. “I think he wanted to show us the importance of being together, of loving and standing with each other no matter what,” William says. “God wanted us to know that we’re stronger together than we ever will be apart. The experiences definitely strengthened our bond.” Today, Rachel is “wonderful,” according to her mother. Though she still has not caught up to her classmates in weight, Rachel peeks down on a fair share of peers at 4 feet 5 inches tall. In early August, she was preparing to start fifth-grade classes at Lake Fenton’s Torrey Hill Intermediate School, where she earns excellent grades and loves to play basketball and floor hockey in gym class. “She was extremely shy starting out in day care and school, but she’s outgrown that,” Janet says.
Dealing with depression Battling depression can be a lifelong fight. Patients not only deal with their symptoms, but sometimes with people who don’t understand. Getting the “cocktail” of anti-depressants just right is often as much an art as science. But therapy and medication can help! If you or a loved one are suffering from depression, and you are not sure where to turn, contact your local Catholic Charities office for help. Many offices have counseling services available, and all can help you find assistance. • Catholic Charities of Lenawee 517.263.2191 • Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw County 734.971.9781
preventing Janet from working and even from attending Mass at Grand C e l e b r at i n g Blanc’s Holy Fam10 years ily Parish. 100 issues “It’s a daily battle,” she said. Janet must confront both the debilitating symptoms of depression and the frustrating side effects of the medication prescribed as its treatment. Taking anti-depressants has caused her excessive sleepiness, nausea and weight gain. Putting on unwanted extra pounds also has hampered coordination and balance for Janet, who was born with cerebral palsy. As a result, she often needs a walker to get around. “Some days, Janet just can’t go out,” William says. “What can you do? You just deal with what you’ve got.”
hough she may deal with depression • Outreach East (Davison) for the rest of her 810.653.7711 life, Janet remains • Catholic Charities of Shiawasoptimistic about her see and Genesee Counties prognosis. 810.232.9110 “Surviving cancer allowed me to 989.723.8230 reflect on life and live differently,” she says. “I appreciated the smaller things. • Catholic Outreach Now, just as before, I’m thankful for 810.234.4693 when I can get up and walk around • Livingston County Catholic and do even little things.” Social Services William, 38, works third shift for a 517.545.5944 trucking company. He’s a traffic manager who coordinates the flow of parts • Catholic Charities and vehicles at a General Motors plant. of Jackson County achel spent her sumAs hectic as William’s job gets, he 517.782.2551 mer playing with her never shirks his top jobs as a husband 517.262.0466 two dogs and two and father. • St. Vincent Catholic cats, dreaming of “He’s stood by me through everyCharities (Lansing) one day becoming thing: cancer, Rachel’s challenges and 517.323.4734 a veterinarian and depression,” Janet says. “To me, he camping out with her Girl Scout troop. stands as a testament to what a Chris• Cristo Rey Community Center “Things are good,” she says simply. tian man should be. He’s my support.” (Lansing) Her mom and dad couldn’t agree Despite life’s challenges, the Reedy 517.372.4700 more. family finds itself in a good place “It’s beyond words,” William says. “I almost 10 years after FAITH Magazine enjoy every moment with Rachel. We don’t take anything first shared their story. They’re excited to discover what God for granted. Everything new she discovers is new for me has in store – and they know they will explore the future all over again, whether it’s sitting eating ice cream or going together. camping.” “I wish everybody could experience the strength of faith Rachel also has become a key source of support for Janet, and family I’ve been blessed to have,” William says. “We’ve who was diagnosed with depression about eight years ago. The weathered what I hope is the worst of it and we’ve all come condition has taken a toll, both emotionally and physically, out stronger, closer and happier.”
22
What does a retired bishop do?
Bishop Carl Mengeling’s changing life
N
ow that the extensive and burdensome responsibilities of being bishop of Lansing no longer consume his energies and his time, “freedom from in order to be free for” is the principle that guides Bishop Carl F. Mengeling’s life. “Retirement is a total change,” he says, “and you’re not really aware of that until it happens.” The more I listened the his account of his retirement, the more I realized that I was talking with a truly free man – a man free to respond to God’s agenda, a man now free to be, rather than to do. Few people realize what is really in the daily life of a bishop. We see bishops at ceremonies when their exalted ministry is celebrated as they confer the sacrament of confir-
mation on our young sons and daughters. We meet them at receptions, banquets and social functions. It is what bishops must do from Monday through Friday that is for the most part hidden from our view: Their countless meetings, their dealing with gut-wrenching problems and their coping with countless requests. Their days are filled with more things that are wrong than things that are right. What, I wondered, was the effect of retirement on Bishop By Father Charles Irvin | Photography by Tom Gennara
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
all of my time to becoming a saint. But I quickly realized that journey should have been going on for 53 years. It was, to a certain point, but a lot of my spirit C e l e b r at i n g was wrapped up in the doing, doing, 10 years doing and not in the being. I have 100 issues found that retiring isn’t like turning on a switch. When one enters into retirement, one is getting old, one tires easily because one’s energies are diminished. The stamina and vitality I once had throughout those many past years are no longer with me. It was not easy then and it is not easy now to set aside the time for spiritual reading and spiritual exercises that I had hoped to enter into – beyond celebrating Mass and reading the Divine Office. You just don’t suddenly declare that you are going to have a conversion experience. God has his agenda. Our agenda doesn’t work, only God’s does. What I was hoping for is going to take some more time. My conversion experience isn’t going to happen overnight.” Bishops and pastors have heavy responsibilities and so feel they must be in charge, to control and organize. “We have to face the fact that our lives are not our own,” he says. “That’s been the downfall of many throughout the centuries of the church, beginning with the apostles. That’s just reality and we have to accept that condition of mind, heart, and soul to allow God to be in charge.” It is who we are that defines us, motivates us and causes us to act, not the other way around, Bishop Mengeling is now fully engaged in teaching – teaching the Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist at their motherhouse in Ann Arbor and teaching the Sisters of Mercy in Alma. His voice is animated when he shares with me what he was teaching them and, more importantly, how he was teaching them. His inner nature, the core of his being, was brought to the fore. Finally, and most importantly, Bishop Mengeling has been given the time to be with his family, to be with his old friends, bishops and priests he has known throughout the years. Also, he has the time to travel, to share in the happy anniversaries and rejoice in the good times found in the lives of those he has known. Free at last, free at last, thank God Almighty our good friend and good shepherd is free at last!
Visit the Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist at www.sistersofmary.org Visit the Religious Sisters of Mercy at www.rsmofalma.org
my story
Mengeling? He immediately brings up Father Bernard Haring’s theological thoughts about freedom, the freedom that Christ’s love gives us. Back in the 1950s the famous German theologian stressed the truth that Christ’s love gives us freedom from in order that we might be free for. With the burden of his responsibilities for the Diocese of Lansing now laid down, and with the debilitating effects of cancer now removed, many of us cannot help but notice now the sparkle in Bishop Mengeling’s eyes, the spring in his gait and the lively activity of his mind. What, I ask, is he now free for, as distinguished from what is he now free from? “Teaching. I can teach now, teach in-depth courses on Scripture.” Without a doubt, Bishop Mengeling is, to the core of his being, a teacher. “It is not what we do that defines us,” he explains, “it is who we are. Our actions flow from our being; our being is not constituted by our actions.” While he is a priest and bishop, he is, in his heart and soul, a teacher Was there any surprising thing he found in his retirement? “It’s a total change, and we’re not fully aware of its implications until it happens. All of a sudden the consistent active and hectic life that I had as a bishop for more than 13 years is ended. It begins to dawn on you that you have to work out a whole new way of living. This has to be preceded by a whole new way of thinking. In Novo Millennio Inuente, closing the great jubilee year of 2000, Pope John Paul II pointed out that we’ve all been so very much preoccupied with doing, doing, doing. Entering this new millennium ,John Paul II was challenging us to be concentrating on our being – on who we are and who we are to become.” Bishop Mengeling thinks a lot about that. Since his cancer operation two years ago, he is now looking ahead, relieved of the daily problems that confronted him as bishop of Lansing. “The good Lord is giving me time, time to be open, time to be open to being a priest in the full sense of the term. Before I retired, I was a priest for many years, 53 years actually, and I had a false notion about retirement. I had the idea that once I was retired I could really get down to the business of my spiritual life and then, in a definitive and positive way, devote
23
24 Back in 1998, he asked me to research the idea of starting a diocesan newspaper for the Diocese of Lansing to replace the Catholic Times. He figured that, since I had been writing a newspaper column about campus ministry for Catholic Times for some 20 years, I was a newspaper guy! Of course, it’s a long way from writing a column to actually starting up a newspaper. I accepted the assignment from the bishop and began to do the research. Immediately, it was clear to me that a newspaper was the wrong direction. Catholic newspapers – and newspapers generally – already were losing ground 10 years ago. There was no future in it. And it would take a full staff and a very large budget to serve the 80,000 residents of the diocese. Most importantly, a newspaper can only present facts, information and data. On the other hand, a four-color magazine could be produced 10 times per year at half the cost – and could reach those same 80,000 people with formation, inspiration and evangelization. That’s a very different mission from a newspaper! Once I presented Bishop Mengeling with the concept for FAITH Magazine, there was no question that it was the tool we needed to reach God’s people. From there, it was an obvious progression to use the Internet to offer the magazine’s content more broadly through FAITHmag.com.
A conversation with
the father of “FAITH”
A
s FAITH Magazine embarks on its second decade, we took some time to reflect with our founding editor, Father Charles Irvin, on his role in creating the publication and on his own faith journey through the pages of FAITH.
You’re often credited as the founder of FAITH Magazine. What was your role in bringing the magazine to fruition? I was the founding editor of FAITH
Magazine, but I can’t take credit for starting FAITH Magazine. I believe God used me to put the pieces together to bring it to fruition, but Bishop Mengeling was the one who saw a need that was ultimately filled by FAITH.
Was your personal philosophy as a priest reflected in the magazine’s development? Throughout my priesthood and in all of my writing and preaching, I have used ordinary language for ordinary people, and that is something we committed to do in FAITH Magazine as well. I remember in high school algebra, my teacher, Catherine Hill, repeatedly urged us to “reduce and simplify.” That has been a motto for me ever since!
By Marybeth Hicks | Photography by Tom Gennara
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
FAITH Magazine shows us in a simple way how ordinary people deal with pain, suffering, loss, aging, parenting, divorce, alcoholism, drug addiction, death – the whole spectrum of life experiences. But it shows us – it doesn’t tell us. FAITH Magazine was meant to be experiential, not didactic. In that way, it uses icons to help us experience the love of Christ – in the same way the church has used icons throughout her history. Explain that to me – how is FAITH Magazine an icon. You mean, like artwork and statuary?
Do you have a favorite faith story from the first 10 years of FAITH Magazine? Do any particular stories stand out in your memory? No one story emerges in my memory because they cannot be compared to one another. Each person’s faith story is as important as another’s because in God’s eyes, each of us is equally important. The street sweeper and the exalted cardinal are equally loved and cherished in the eyes of God, and their unique stories are equally valid as representations of a faith journey. So no, I don’t have a favorite. They have all inspired me. Why do you think the format for FAITH Magazine works so well? It works because through the stories in the magazine, we can see that people
Did you ever feel that God had called you to a really difficult task when you were asked to launch such an ambitious evangelization project? Never. If the thing you are doing is God’s project, it’s not difficult. I always figured it this way – if God sent his only Son into the world to suffer, die and rise again, he must have had something really important to say to us. I wanted to be a part of that – that’s why I became a priest. In any case, I never felt the magazine was a project that happen to come to me through the bishop, but rather that it was something God planned for me to do. It helps me to participate in answering life’s most fundamental question: What is life about? Have FAITH Magazine and FAITHmag.com reached their potential? The potential of FAITH Magazine and the Web site cannot be measured in circulation numbers or in hits on the Internet. Even though we are pretty media savvy as a diocese, we know that these things are only tools do
evangelize, and our efforts to bring the Gospel to the people of God C e l e b r at i n g can be measured 10 years by God alone. 100 issues If people become Catholic or if others come back to the faith because of something they have read or seen in FAITH Magazine, that is a measure of our full potential. We have the same problem that God has! He offers and wants us to respond, but we are responsible for responding. That’s all we can do with FAITH Magazine – offer Jesus Christ to God’s people through those unique faith journeys and hope that they will respond. I’m not at all curious about our so-called success. We are sowers of seeds. Some will be too busy, or too corrupt, or too degraded to take root, and others will be ready and waiting to blossom because of the message they receive. Sometimes it takes a lot of pain for God to get into a human heart. He allows life to break our hearts open so that he can come in. Faith tells stories of heartbreak and of God’s healing love. So in that sense, our potential is unlimited, isn’t it?
my story
Exactly. One of the objectives of FAITH Magazine is to use images – visual pictures as well as images created in our minds through words – to communicate the Gospel. This is a part of our ancient tradition. The people of God are familiar with using images to portray faith. So the magazine and the web site are modern day icons – images – used to tell the faith stories of ordinary people. There is a good reason why the church uses icons. Icons are images into which our imaginations may enter – windows, if you will. We go through these windows to contact and receive the presence of God. In that way, all human beings are icons – we are mysteries – and we are windows through which others can experience God’s powerful love.
cope better with life’s struggles when they have faith to carry them through. I have always thought the Catholic Church has the answers that are really beneficial because we have the humanity of Jesus Christ to lead us. In his humanity, he offers insights and understanding about life that we can’t get anywhere else. So the format of both FAITH Magazine and FAITHmag.com – telling those personal human stories – portrays our ordinary faith journeys in ways that truly demonstrate the presence of Christ in our everyday lives.
25
26
things to do: Lansing Area Catholic Singles – friends, fellowship and fun for singles in their mid 30s-50s. Join us in December for Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village; come prepared to meet new friends and have a great time! For more details, call 517.321.7886 or e-mail LansingCatholicSingles @live.com.
community
Good Shepherd, Montrose will have an Advent Candlelight Service for Women on Dec. 10. All interested women are encouraged to attend for a night of fun, faith and fellowship. For more information, contact Sandra, Parish Education Commission, at 810.639.3245. Aquinas Forum, Dec. 3 at Siena Heights University will be hosted by the Philosophy and Religious Studies Departments. 7 p.m. in Rueckert Auditorium. Dr. Kent Van Til, author of “Less Than Two Dollars a Day: A Christian View of World Poverty and the Free Market,” is the featured speaker. The forum is free and open to the community. For more information, call 517.264.7141 or visit www.sienaheights.edu. Immaculate Heart of Mary will have a Family Advent Celebration Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. It will begin with a prayer service in church followed a social in the parish family center. Seniors are invited as special guests. Seniors are to call JoAnn Angers at 393.3033 to reserve a place. All are welcome. A Core Cardio/Exercise Class is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Most Holy Trinity Activity Center in Fowler from 6:15 p.m.-7:15 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Holy Trinity Student Parish, Ypsilanti has student-cooking classes on Wednesday nights from 8 p.m.-10 p.m. Contact Bill at balt@htspemu.org for information or to help. St Mary, Pinckney’s Christmas Craft Bazaar is Dec. 5, 10 a.m.4 p.m., free admission, hot lunch available and more than 100 crafters. For details, contact Mary at 734.878.6563. Good Shepherd Family Life Cen-
ter in Montrose will have a Soup Supper Dec. 5 and a Sunday Breakfast on Dec. 13. For more information, contact the parish at 810.639.7600 The St. Catherine of Siena Lay Dominican group meets at Holy Family in Grand Blanc on the second Saturday of the month. Becoming a Dominican is a response to God’s call. All visitors are welcomed and under no obligation to join. For more information or to arrange a visit, contact Janet at 810. 694.6908 or e-mail johnseven38@yahoo. com Join the St. Pius X Choir under the direction of Diane Pierce for a Festival of Carols, Dec. 13 at 6:30 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. For more information, contact the parish office at 810.235.8574. St. Mary, Pinckney will have Advent by Candlelight, an ecumenical advent evening for women, Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. For details, contact the parish office at 734.878.3161. A SMART Recovery group meets at the Catholic Community of St. Jude, DeWitt every Saturday morning at 9 a.m. in the community center. Everyone is
At our retreat centers St. Francis Retreat Center program, DeWitt, 866.669.8321. Dec. 4-6, a Married Couples Retreat, give yourselves the gift of time; and Dec. 11-13, Beyond Survival, a weekend of healing for women who have experienced sexual abuse. Dominican Center at Marywood, 2025 E. Fulton St., Grand Rapids, www.dominicancenter.comor or 616.454.2861: Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.-8 p.m., Dec. 2, 9 and 16, The Incarnation of God in Poetry, Prose and Prayer; cost $10 a session or $25 for entire program. Finding our Focus: Advent Praying with Body, Mind and Spirit is Dec. 5, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. at St. Paul of the Cross Retreat Center, 23333 Schoolcraft, Detroit. Cost is $45. Phone 313.535.9563 to register. For further information, contact Janene Ternes of Prayer in Motion, LLC at 734.429.7754 or visit her Web site at www.prayer-in-motion.com. welcome. For more information, contact Victor Braatz at 517. 231.3408 or Dan Drolett at 989. 224.1128. Join us for a nine-day pilgrimage to Poland, July 11-19. We will be visiting the sites of St. Faustina – John Paul II – St. Kolbe – Our Lady of Czestochowa – Auschwitz and more; with a two-night post-trip option to Medjugorje. Offering an Early Bird discount of $200 until Jan. 31. Contact Suzanne Krisak, group coordinator, at 734.944.1599
December Café events St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Ann Arbor has a Gospel study group. It meets every Thursday at 10 a.m. in the choir room. They will explore the meaning and context of the Gospel for each coming Sunday. For more information, call Crystal Heft at 734.995.3944. S. S. Charles and Helena, Clio has R.C.I.A. every Wednesday evening at 6:30 p.m. in the Parish Center. For more information, contact Sister Kathy Lange, adult education coordinator and pastoral associate, at 810.686.9861. Holy Trinity Student Parish, Ypsilanti has a women’s Bible study on Wednesday at 10 a.m. and Thursday at 7:30 p.m. For information, contact the parish office 734.482.1400. Queen of the Miraculous Medal, Jackson has Brown Bag Bible Brunch Thursdays from noon to 1 p.m. at the parish office. For more infor-
and 248.931.0194; e-mail skrisak@peoplepc.com or visit www.pilgrimages.com/krisak. Sponsored by the Spiritual Development Commission of St. Andrew Parish, Saline. Piano player needed at nursing home Masses three Wednesdays a month. If you are interested in sharing your musical talent with the residents at area nursing homes, please contact Aimee Moore at 810.694.4891, ext. 254 or 98moore@sbcglobal.net
mation, contact the parish at 517.783.2748. St. Augustine, Howell has men’s fellowship each second and fourth Tuesday of the month in the basement of the church from 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. If you have questions, contact Deacon Bill at 810.750.2669. St. Joseph, St. Johns is offering the Basic Marian Catechist Home Study Course. It can be done in a group or individually. For information, please contact Anne Wieser at 989.640.0917. St. Mary, Charlotte’s men’s group is studying Samuel 2. It meets Saturdays at 8 a.m. in the Luke room. New members are welcome. For information, contact the parish office at 517.543.4319. Christ the King Catholic Church, Ann Arbor has weekly Bible study between the Masses at 10:10 a.m. each Sunday. Breakfast snacks, fruit, pastries, coffee and juice are available. All are welcome! For more information, contact the parish at 734.665.5040.
27
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
Catholic Charities
Friends is a divorce support group that meets the second and fourth Thursdays of the month at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Ann Arbor. For further information, call Virginia at 734.994.9194. English country dancing returns to Christ the King, Ann Arbor. The dates are Fridays: Jan. 15, Feb. 19, March 19 and April 16; for ages 10 and up, in the Parish Activity Center from 7 p.m.-9:30p.m. The cost is $4 per student, $6 per adult or $15 per family. The dances are instructional. If you have any questions or are able to help, please e-mail Wendy Cousino at wcousinox@hotmail.com. The Brighton area offers a separated and divorce support group and other activities. For more information, contact Mary Jo Germaine at 810.229.0040.
Livingston County Catholic Social Services – Open Enrollment Medicare’s Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D) starts Nov. 15 - Dec. 31 with coverage starting Jan. 1, 2010. It is important to research the different plans, even if you are currently enrolled in 2009, as the plans change or
ence is needed to participate in this ministry. For information, call Terry Humenik 517.896.4989 or e-mail stjudesrn@yahoo.com. See a live-streaming broadcast of St. Francis of Assisi, Ann Arbor’s Sunday 10:30 a.m. Mass on your computer. The live broadcast will start a few minutes before 10:30 on Sunday morning and will end when the Mass is over. Visit the parish Web site at www. stfrancisa2.com and click on the Sunday 10:30 a.m. Mass link (along the left side of the home page). For information on separated and divorce support groups in the Davison area, contact Connie Quinn at 810.653.1284; in the Jackson area, contact John Loniewski at 517.787.6560.
your medication needs may have changed. In addition, you may qualify for extra help with the monthly premiums, a lower co-pay and you may even be covered through the coverage gap if your income for one person is $16,245/year with assets up to $12,510 or income for a couple is $21,855/year with assets up to $25,010. Your primary home and car are not included in the total asset dollar amount. For assistance with selecting a plan and filling out the application or for more information, please contact Patty or Linda at Livingston County Catholic Social Services at 800.489.6107. In addition, you may apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov or call Social Security at 800.772.1213. You are encouraged to call by early December to have it taken care of before the holidays.
Church, Fenton; Dec. 20, 10 a.m., St. John Chapel, Fenton; Dec. 25, 10 a.m., St. John Chapel, Fenton; Dec. 13, 4:30
p.m., St. Gerard; and Dec. 24, 4 p.m. Christmas Eve in Lansing with Father Ken followed by Christmas supper.
Advent Communal Penance Services: Lansing region: St. Gerard, Lansing, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. St. Thomas Aquinas, Lansing, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. St. Robert Bellarmine, Flushing, Dec. 6 at 3 p.m. St. John the Evangelist, Davison, Dec. 9 at 10:30 a.m. and Dec. 13 at 6:30 p.m. St. Joseph, Adrian, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. St. Andrew, Saline, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. St. Thomas the Apostle, Ann Arbor, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m.
The Jackson Right to Life hosts a prayer watch on Saturdays in front of the local office of Planned Parenthood, 2009 W. Michigan. Please join the local citizens in peaceful assembly from 11 a.m. until noon.
Holy Redeemer, Burton, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m.
St. Mary Student, Ann Arbor, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m.
St. Robert Bellarmine, Flushing offers a monthly Bereavement Support Group. To inquire about meeting times and dates, please contact the parish office at 810.659.2501.
Genesys Regional Medical center is looking for commissioned Eucharistic minister volunteers to minister to Catholic patients. A mentored orientation is provided and you can pick your days of service. For information, call the Genesys Spiritual Care Department at 810.606.5290.
The Catholic Community of St. Jude’s Prayer Shawl and Quilt Ministry gets together twice each month in the parish community center. No experi-
ASL Masses in Dec.: Dec 6, 11 a.m., St. John Chapel, Fenton followed by Diocesan Deaf Christmas Party; Dec 13, 10 a.m. St. John the Evangelist
Retrouvaille is an organization that provides help for couples who are struggling in their marriage. If you would like help, e-mail www.retrouvaille.info or call Mark and Betty Squier at 586.296.9589.
St. Casimir, Lansing, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. St. Joseph, Dexter, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. St. Mary, Chelsea, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m.
St. Isidore, Laingsburg, Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. St. John the Evangelist, Fenton Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. St. Patrick, Ann Arbor, Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. Holy Family, Grand Blanc, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. Most Holy Trinity Parish, Fowler, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. St. Francis of Assisi, Ann Arbor, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. St. Mary, Manchester, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m.
Catholic Charities
St. Vincent Catholic Charities of Lansing – Give a Gift to a Child or Family in Need this Christmas: From hosting a Giving Tree at Christmas, to providing a present for a child on Christmas morning, there are numerous ways to help give to those in need. For more information, contact Elyse Lee at 517.323-4734 ext. 1204 or leee@stvcc.org. St. Vincent Catholic Charities Radio Breakfast Show – Dec. 4, 6 a.m.-10 a.m., please join us in the St. Vincent Catholic Charities Children’s Home, 2828 W. Willow St., Lansing, for a hot breakfast and live DJ entertainment from 99.1 WFMK. The
STVCC Radio Breakfast Show is our opportunity to thank the community for their support of our services for more than 60 years. Thanks to the sponsorship of Capitol National Bank, the staff of STVCC will cook the community a hot and heartwarming breakfast to start their day. 99.1 WFMK will be on site playing music for all to enjoy. For more information, contact Elyse Lee, St. Vincent Catholic Charities Mission Sustainability Specialist, at 517.323-4734 ext. 1204 or leee@stvcc.org.
28 Holley Institute Christmas song
local news
St. Thomas the Apostle in Ann Arbor parishioner Margaret Peters joined with 10 other deaf students at the Holley Institute, located at the De Sales Center in Brooklyn, to learn to sign The Twelve Days of Christmas for a special party to thank the benefactors of the Holley Institute. Beth Seres, a counselor, said the students were happy to give back to the people who support the Holley Institute. They were excited for Christmas and to show hearing people that through teamwork, they can sign a song.
120 years of service for the Lord
Sharing our faith
On Labor Day weekend, Holy Rosary in Flint held an ordination anniversary celebration honoring: Father James Bettendorf (50 years); Father Steven Makranyi (40 years); and Father George Puthenpeedika (30 years) for their service to the Lord and his people. Father George thanked all those who had participated, “especially the committed volunteers and Marti Bartosz, who was the real spirit behind the celebration.”
Holy Family School in Grand Blanc’s students have the opportunity to share in very special ministry. Three times a month, students leave the school to celebrate Mass with area care center residents. On Sept. 23, Mrs. Pena’s 8th-grade class was the first group of students to share in the breaking of the bread with the residents and Father Kusi at the Grand Blanc Rehab Center. After the Mass, the students spent time with the residents and presented them with gifts.
Catholic Social Services of Washtenaw celebrates its 50th anniversary When the Archdiocese of Detroit and community leadJohn and Marnee DeVine, ers established Catholic Sofounding members of cial Services of Washtenaw Catholic Social Services of County in 1959, the mission Washtenaw, center; along with daughter Kathy DeVine was to extend a helping hand and son, John DeVine Jr. to struggling families regardless of their faith, race or economic background. Embracing the tenets of Catholic social teaching, the agency dedicated itself to changing the lives of its neighbors in the most vulnerable circumstances. Today’s vision – to help people live safe, meaningful and independent lives, in a more just community – is much broader, reflecting the increasing diversity of our contemporary culture CSSW has come a long way, and on Oct. 4 celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special recognition event at the Ann Arbor City Club. More than 170 guests joined Bishop Earl Boyea and President Larry Voight to recognize and honor past and current leaders who have sustained the agency during the last 50 years. To learn more, please visit www.csswashtenaw.org.
Shiawassee Hunger Network receives check for more than $5,000 The Shiawassee Hunger Network was presented with a check for more than
Rosary makers’ annual gathering On Oct. 11, the Lansing Area Rosary Makers met at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church for their fall gathering, celebrating 44 years of service to Catholic missions. All rosary making is done at home, so this is a special once a year opportunity for the rosary makers to renew friendships. The guest speaker, Deacon Benedict Ehinack from Cameroon, is a seminarian at Sacred Heart Seminary in Detroit. The rosary makers had recently given him 3,500 rosaries to ship back to his country. He spoke of the love of his people for God and how the rosary helps them follow Mary when she tells them to listen to her son, Jesus. Cameroon’s population is 30 percent Catholic. Because of the people’s extreme poverty, many are unable to purchase a rosary. For more information about the Lansing Area Rosary Makers, please contact Laurene Moore at ihmrosarymakers@copper.net.
@
$5,000 from St. Mary’s Lazarus Project to go toward stocking food banks throughout Shiawassee County. The check was presented at the Sept. 27, 11 a.m. Mass at St. Mary in Durand to Ray Chapman from the Shiawassee Hunger Network.
Twenty-five percent of the money came from the proceeds of ticket sales for the 1985 Cavalier convertible donated by Father J. Munley. Windmill Pro-Paint of Owosso assisted by refurbishing it. The lucky winner was Nora Stamper-Pardee.
29
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
Holy Family in Grand Blanc helps build ninth house for Habitat for Humanity
The Welcome Table crew of helpers from week one: Ryan Smith, Christopher Pryslak, Bob and Sheila Larson, Cindy and Lou Glubzinski, Deacon Pete Gudaitis and Ann Jaeger. Other helpers not pictured: Colleen Pryslak, Ken Michaels and Amy Johnson.
St. Agnes Parish welcomes all at “The Welcome Table” St. Agnes Catholic Church in Fowlerville has opened its doors to the community with a meal ministry program called “The Welcome Table.” Program Director Colleen Pryslak is “thrilled with the initial response from the community and hopes the word continues to spread.” Every Thursday night, St. Agnes serves a hot meal at 6 p.m. “If you are a senior citizen eating alone every night or if you are a neighbor
or family who is in need of a nourishing meal, please come and join us. We want to be your family on these Thursday nights,” said St. Agnes’ pastor, Father James Lothamer. “This is precisely the type of community outreach we were envisioning,” stated Liz Heslip, director of evangelization and stewardship at St. Agnes. If you would like to join us or would like more information, please call St. Agnes Parish at 517.223.8684.
Our Lady of Fatima School begins new tradition Oct. 5, the day after the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, all students from Our Lady of Fatima School, Michigan Center, were invited to bring their pets for a special blessing by the pastor, Father Jeffery Robideau, and his Appaloosa, Wrangler. This was the first year for the pet blessing ceremony in the parish. Father Robideau, in cowboy style, rode his horse over to greet the students and their pets. All the creatures, human and animal, became still and quiet as Father Robideau read the blessing while mounted on his horse. – Kelly Flaherty
For 18 years, Holy Family has joined with other Grand Blanc churches to build a house for families that have never owned their own home. This year it helped to construct a house in Flint. It was necessary to raise $20,000 for the project. Holy Family’s portion was $5,000. A special collection was held on two consecutive
Meet St. Pius X’s catechists Catechists are the volunteers who teach our children at St. Pius X Religious Education on Wednesday evenings. “We are very fortunate to have a dedicated team of volunteers that sacrifice family time, dinner and much more to be here with us,” said Cindee McColley, director of religious education. “The next time you see one of our very special catechists, be sure to say hello and thank them for being a volunteer in the St. Pius X Religious Education Department.”
St. John publication receives award for excellence Linda Pivarnik, director of development at St. John Student Center, received the Exemplary Program Award from the Catholic Campus Ministry Association for her booklet “Keeping the Faith in Your New Home Town.” Pivarnik wrote this booklet in May 2009 for graduating Michigan State University students at St. John. Through this booklet, the Catholic Ministry at St. John encourages their graduates to carry their faith and find a spiritual home in their new hometown, and is a way to continue ministering to Catholic Spartans. “Keeping the Faith in Your New Home Town” can be downloaded from the St. John Web site, www.stjohnmsu.org.
St. Joseph, Adrian plan a pilgrimage to the Holy Land Jan. 13-22, 2010. The guides are Steve and Janet Ray. Steve is a well-known biblical scholar and producer of the DVD video series, “In the Footprints of God.” St. Joseph, Adrian invites you to join them on this pilgrimage. Further information can be found at www.catholicconvert.com or contact Jim or Cheryl Olszewski at 517.467.4734 or olszewski7766@yahoo.com.
@
weekends, and generous donations from the Knight of Columbus and the parish’s 55 And Older Club helped put them over the top. In fact, the generous response of the parish community raised enough to fund the 2011 project. Nearly 100 people attended the dedication of the house and the keys to the property were turned over to the new owner, Latishia Berry, who moved in Oct. 1. The volunteers from Holy Family did an outstanding job.
30
FAITH by the numbers
Here are some fun facts about FAITH
Number of magazines FAITH has printed since December 8, 1999:
FAITH by the numbers
Number of readers FAITH Catholic magazines reach each year:
953,228
Number of hours staff have worked to connect people with Jesus and his church:
25,559,239
515,625
Total pages printed in FAITH Catholic magazines during 2008-09
Average number of of words per issue:
32,161
192,792,160 Magazines published by FAITH Catholic 1. FAITH Saginaw Diocese of Saginaw, MI 2. FAITH Erie Diocese of Erie, PA 3. Vermont Catholic Diocese of Burlington, VT 4. Parable Diocese of Manchester, NH 5. Harvest Diocese of Portland, ME 6. Catholic TV Monthly Archdiocese of Boston, MA 7. NC Catholics Diocese of Raleigh, NC
8. S t. Augustine Catholic Diocese of St. Augustine, FL 9. C atholic Islander Diocese of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands 10. Catholic Compass Diocese of Pensacola/ Tallahassee, FL 11. The Claverite Knights of Peter Claver 12. LaFe Diocese of Laredo, TX 13. Eastern Oklahoma Catholic Diocese of Tulsa, OK
14. C hrist is our Hope Diocese of Joliet, IL 15. B etween Friends Society of the Little Flower 16. T he Bridge Mundelein Seminary Archdiocese of Chicago, IL 17. F AITH Grand Rapids Diocese of Grand Rapids, MI 18. FAITH Diocese of Lansing, MI
5 3 17 14
Magazines
16
1
4 6
18
2
15
7 13
10
FACT: More bishops publish with FAITH Catholic than any other publisher.
8
11 12 1
1
“For I know
well the plans
not for your welfare, the Lord, plans hope.” - Jeremiah 29:11 of for you, says a future full I have in mind to give you for woe! Plans
9
programming highlights
Spotlight, We’ve Got to Talk, The Prophets and You, WOW: TheCatholicTV® Challenge
a devoted FAITH’s
1
T h e
K n i g h t s
o f
P e t e r
C l a v e r,
I n c.
Volume 92 • Summer Issue 2009 • www.kofpc.org
priest
get to know
A V a l l e y ’ s S a c r i f i c e
And hope for the future
Sarah Rose Daniel Berdis
PO1109.indd 1
have to text? Why do teensit sometimes Why does bug parents?
from other kids Meet eight rounding the Erie Diocese top teens! out our ten
Ye a r f o r P r i e s t s
A time of reflection and celebration
S w a m p l a n d a n d S c r i p t u r e
A missionary trip Down East
10/9/09 1:02 PM
Ss. Peter and Paul C athedral
Rosary Wa lk
BCT1109.indd 1
anD
Premiere issue!
’09
teens of the year
8/11/09 12:28:32 PM
10/5/09 2:06 PM
MAN0909.indd 1
regret: Romance without gets to the Jason Evert of it heart
NC1009 front-GOOD.indd
1
9/15/09 4:14:24 PM
U.S. Bishops Assembly
PM 8/12/09 3:02:17
VI1109.indd
The Seven Founders of the Knights of Peter Claver 10:56:48 1 ER0909.indd 9/15/09
AM
1
Cathedral Res toration Fundraiser
September 11 Commemorat ion
10/20/09
.indd 1
1:54 PM
SAG1009NEW
Rev. Conrad F. Rebesher, S.S.J.
Heaven’s hands nurture, encourage parenting
Rev. John H. Dorsey, S.S.J.
Hon. Frank Collins
Hon. Gilbert Faustina
Hon. Frank Trenier
Rev. Samuel J. Kelly, S.S.J.
Rev. Joseph P. Van Baast, S.S.J.
Vocations BOOM
100th Anniversary
Bishop Kelley High School alums answer the call to religious life
at Alpha Center
p a r e n t i n g
spiritual fitness
nuts and bolts
Spanish celebration
Prepare to welcome the guest!
Why do we have holy days and what are they?
Latin Christmas traditions
i n s i d e
t h i s
j o u r n e y
We’ve had a baby, but lost our friends! What do we do?
i s s u e
Officer messages • District news • Junior division
f e a t u r e
s t o r y
The Kizzias are coming!
s p i r i t u a l
f i t n e s s
The new Pentecost of the priesthood MUNss09-front.indd 1
PT1209_2 DT.indd 1
11/9/09 11:04 AM
KPC_Summer09_changes.indd 1
7/2/09 12:06:30 PM
LF0809.indd 1
9/14/09 2:21:15 PM
TUL1109 layout.indd 1
10/2/09 1:48 PM
JOL1109.indd 1
10/8/09 4:13 PM
SOLF-Spring09.indd 1
2/10/09 10:11:20 AM
5/19/09 9:55:36 AM GR0909a.indd 1
9/10/09 3:43:58 PM
FM1009 layout GOOD.indd 1
9/1/09 4:29:44 PM
M
FAITH Magazine / December 2009 / www.FAITHmag.com
FAITH possible today. Elizabeth Solsburg is not only the driving force behind the Lansing edition, but works with our client editors across the country. Patrick C e l e b r at i n g Dally not only designs the magazine 10 years for Lansing, but works with three other 100 issues designers to produce 139 issues a year for Catholic dioceses and organizations. To Father Dwight Ezop, our editor and chairman, and to our new publisher, Bishop Boyea, I say thank you. To the more than 20 employees of FAITH Catholic, the columnists, freelance writers, photographers, proofreaders and printers, I say thank you. To the priests of this diocese, whose parishes continue to support FAITH Magazine, and to the readers who remain so loyal, I say thank you. The passing on of faith falls to each generation. This is our time. Ironically, despite all the many means of communication, it seems harder than ever for the message of Christ to cut through. For print media, times are very tough. Will FAITH continue to grow? Looking to the future, it would be easy for a moment of fear to set in. I suppose we would all do well to remember our roots. Two thousand years ago, the Twelve Apostles could not see what would become of the church, yet look what happened. Closer to home, Father Charlie and Bishop Mengeling could not see what their new magazine would become, yet look what happened. I guess what they all had in common was a little faith.
What a 10 years it has been. I hope we’ve made FAITH enjoyable for you. It’s difficult to reach people with a magazine in the age of the Internet. Yet, we were on to something. Bishops from across the country took note and FAITH grew. In July 2009, Bishop Boyea merged FAITH Magazine, diocesan communications and Liturgical Commission Publishings into FAITH Catholic. Together, we are one of America’s largest and fastest-growing Catholic publishers. Back then, FAITH was one magazine, 10 issues a year. Now, FAITH Catholic publishes 18 magazines, 139 issues a year. Back then, we went to 80,000 homes. Now we reach nearly 1 million. Our commentaries and homilies are used by roughly one third of the nation’s 19,000 parishes. Plus, FAITH Catholic is venturing into TV production, books, marketing and the new era of digital magazines, databases and interactive Web products. Patrick M. O’Brien is president and chief executive officer of FAITH Catholic. It is said that success has many fathers and failure is an orphan. Well, the fathers of FAITH are many. Father J. Munley first suggested that there be a magazine for the diocese and I went to work on a concept. Father Dwight Ezop, a seminarian at the time, gave input. Father Charlie Irvin was named editor and made the pitch to wary priests. Deacon David Rosenberg created a Web site. Msgr. Michael Murphy found a way to fund the first year. Bishop Carl Mengeling had the courage and vision to make it all a reality. Bishop Boyea and the staff of FAITH Catholic A new generation makes
From one magazine to America’s fastest-growing Catholic publisher
the story of FAITH Catholic
last word
y first day of work at FAITH Magazine sticks in my mind. The receptionist directed me to an empty office – well, not quite empty. On the floor in the corner sat a phone on a phone book and in the center was a lonely steel desk with a bent leg. This was day one for FAITH’s first employee. I have to admit, a moment of fear set in. Yet, it was also exciting. In a few minutes, my boss, Father Charlie Irvin, would arrive. In a few weeks, more staff would be hired. In six months, the first issue would launch. Now, 10 years later, you have in your hands issue 100.
31
notes:
America’s fastest-growing Catholic publisher Publishing and Communications
Products and Services: Data Solutions: DioceseofLansing.org FAITHmag.com Parish online FAITH database
TV and Radio: Televised Outreach Mass Radio Mass from Resurrection Parish
Electronic Media: Weekly priest e-news Monthly parishioner e-news VOICES Alive! e-news
Ministry Marketing: Graphic design services Marketing and communications Printing and mailing services
Print: FAITH Magazine Diocese of Lansing Directory
Public Relations: Media relations Diocesan spokesperson
Public Relations: Media relations Diocesan spokesperson
Liturgical Products: Homilies and Commentaries Parishposters.com
www.FAITHcatholic.com | 517.853.7600
p l e a s e
r e c y c l e