New Earth December 2018

New December 2018 | Vol. 39 | No. 11

Earth

The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Fargo

Marriage preparation leads couples to fullness of truth and faith

PLUS

From Bishop Folda: Christmas and the call to holiness

FirstChoice transition to Women’s Care Center model proving to be successful

Bishop Folda responds to recent USCCB meeting

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NEW

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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December 2018 Vol. 39 | No. 11

ON THE COVER 12 Marriage preparation leads couples

to fullness of truth and faith

Christmas is just around the corner. In this season when we contemplate the mystery of Christ’s birth, gather with family and friends, and seek what ways we can give ourselves to others, it is often the most common time of the year for dating couples to think of marriage and perhaps even pop the question, “Will you marry me?”

FROM BISHOP FOLDA

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Christmas and the call to holiness

FOCUS ON FAITH

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Pope Francis’ December prayer intentions

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Ask a priest: What can we do at Mass to help with the New Evangelization?

AROUND THE DIOCESE

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Monsignor Allan Nilles, 94, passes away Oct. 31

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Grafton church recognized for its unique architecture

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FirstChoice transition to Women’s Care Center model proving to be successful

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10 Dressed in their Christmas best

FAITH AND CULTURE

14 Tattered Pages

What is it with kids these days?

OUR CATHOLIC LIFE

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15 Stories of Faith

A Christmas prayer

16 Catholic Charities Corner

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Your gift makes a difference

17 Sister’s Perspective

An attitude of gratitude

18 Seminarian Life

All in God’s time

19 Catholic Action

O Antiphons point to social doctrine of the church

20 Stewardship

Five tips help sort through year-end giving considerations

21 Little Sisters of the Poor

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What are you giving for Christmas?

ON THE COVER: Father Robert Keller blesses Vanessa and Derek Bohnenkamt during their wedding at St. James Basilica in Jamestown on Nov. 18, 2017. (Jodelle Gefroh Photography)

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(ISSN# 10676406) Our mission is to serve Catholic parishes in Eastern N.D. as the official monthly publication of the Diocese of Fargo.

Publisher

Most Rev. John T. Folda Bishop of Fargo

Editor

Paul Braun

Assistant editor Kristina Lahr

Designer

Stephanie Drietz - Drietz Designs

Subscriptions

Parish contributions make it possible for each registered Catholic household in the diocese to receive 11 issues per year. For those living outside the Diocese wanting a subscription, an annual $9/year rate is requested.

Postmaster

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WHAT’S HAPPENING

22 Events across the diocese 22 A glimpse of the past 23 Life’s milestones 24 In Memoriam – We remember

SPECIAL SECTION

26 Catholic Development Foundation Financial Report

U.S. AND WORLD NEWS

32 Bishop Folda responds to recent USCCB meeting

SIDEWALK STORIES 35 Deep abortion regret drew her to sidewalk

Send address changes or subscription requests to: New Earth 5201 Bishops Blvd S., Suite A Fargo, ND 58104

Contact Information

Use the following contact information to contact the New Earth staff: news@fargodiocese.org (701) 356-7900 Deadline to submit articles, story ideas, advertisements and announcements for the January issue is Dec. 12, 2018.

All submissions are subject to editing and placement.

New Earth is published by the Catholic Diocese of Fargo, a nonprofit North Dakota corporation, 5201 Bishops Blvd. S, Suite A Fargo, ND 58104.

(701) 356-7900.

Periodical Postage Paid at Fargo, ND and at additional mailing offices.

Member of the Catholic Press Association NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

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FROM BISHOP FOLDA

Christmas and the call to holiness

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n a few short days, we will celebrate one of the most joyful events of the year: Christmas. After several weeks of preparation in the season of Advent, we will finally arrive at the glorious day when the birth of Jesus is recounted and relived by Christians all over the world. The muted spirit of Advent gives way to the full-throated rejoicing of Christmas, and our hearts are lifted up by the grace of God, which St. Paul tells us has appeared to save us all.

These recent months have been challenging and painful for our Church, as we hear of the sins and failings of some of her leaders. But, even in these days of scandal and challenge for the Church, there is cause for hope. The Son of God, dwelling eternally with the Father and the Holy Spirit, has come into this world, and has made his dwelling with us. As the Prologue of St. John’s Gospel declares so powerfully: “The Word became flesh and dwelled among us.” Christ came into the world, “became flesh,” because of our need for redemption. He came down to be with us out of love for humanity, in all its weakness and sinfulness.

Christmas reminds us that God will never abandon us. He has thrown in his lot with us, his children, and made himself one with us forever.

It’s a little known fact of history that Christmas was actually banned in New England during the seventeenth century. It was considered too “Catholic” by the Puritan rulers, and so the celebration of Christmas was outlawed. Those who dared to break this law risked fines or jail, just for celebrating our Savior’s birth. All the more reason then that we, as Catholics, should celebrate Christmas with joy and vigor, not the commercialized version of Christmas hawked by retailers, but the true version that we find in the Gospels and in the Tradition of the Church.

Christmas customs, like trees, presents, and special foods can come and go, but the true heart of Christmas, the birth of the God-Man in Bethlehem, remains forever.

This is a season filled with festivity and joy, and in some ways the secular world has taken over the celebration of Christmas.

With all the activities that fill these weeks, it would be easy to lose sight of the real meaning of our celebration. I hope and pray that each one of us will keep our eyes fixed on Bethlehem, on the manger and the little child that lies within. He is the reason for our celebration, and his birth has changed the world — that is why we rejioice, that is why we celebrate with family and friends, that is why we exchange gifts.

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It is good to remember in these happy days that not everyone is in a joyful situation. Some are homeless, and some are refugees, just as the Holy Family once was. Some don’t have the means to put on a lavish feast or give brightly wrapped presents. Others are alone and isolated and have no one to celebrate with them.

Let us not forget these brothers and sisters this Christmas. Just as the shepherds were invited to the stable that first Christmas, Jesus always reached out to the poor, the sick, those on the margins. Even now, he continues to reach out to the lonely, the poor, the sick, the homeless, and the sinner. But today, he does so through us, the members of his body, the Church. Our call to holiness this Christmas should include a call to charity, a call to compassion and generosity.

The birth of Jesus is an invitation to holiness, to a life lived in communion with our loving God. Christmas should change us and lift us up in joy and hope to the one who frees us from sin and gives us new life.

– Bishop John Folda

The celebration of our Lord’s birth in Bethlehem should also bring us to a renewed spirit of prayer. The angels praised God as they announced the birth of Jesus. The shepherds came in search of this newborn child. Mary and Joseph looked in silence at the infant who was foretold to each of them, and who now was in their care. Our prayer at Christmas can follow this pattern of those first witnesses: coming into the Lord’s presence, praising him with joy, and looking upon him in awed silence.

Jesus entered into our world to be near us, to be one with us, and through our celebration of Christmas, he invites us once again to enter into communion with him. This happens most beautifully in the celebration of the Mass, which for us as Catholics is an indispensable part of this joyful day. “Christ-Mass,” the solemnity of our Lord’s birth, is recounted in the liturgies that bring us back to Bethlehem, which means “house of bread,” that place where the Son of God first appeared in the flesh. Jesus came to abide with us, and so our prayer must continue, the daily prayer that allows us to abide always in his loving presence.

While the modern celebration of Christmas can get overwhelmed by material things, the humble birth of Jesus invites

us all to a greater simplicity. When we can set aside the distractions of the world, it becomes easier to depend on the God who made us and redeemed us. Jesus was born in a stable to poor parents, and he was visited by shepherds who had little in the way of earthly wealth. These humble folk remind us that great wonders come to those who are not in love with the things of this world. Those who are poor in spirit, who put their trust in God through simplicity and detachment, will find it easier to recognize the Christ child who came to save us.

In short, dear friends, Christmas is about holiness. The birth of Jesus is an invitation to holiness, to a life lived in communion with our loving God. Christmas should change us and lift us up in joy and hope to the one who frees us from sin and gives us new life. May this Christmas be, for all of us, a time of grace and peace, a gateway to holiness and joy.

BISHOP FOLDA’S CALENDAR Dec. 11

|

11 a.m.

Dec. 15

|

10 a.m.

Catholic Development Board, Pastoral Center, Fargo 3 p.m.

Diocesan Finance Council, Pastoral Center, Fargo

Prayer Intention of Pope Francis

DECEMBER Evangelization –

In the Service of the Transmission of Faith That people, who are involved in the service and transmission of faith, may find, in their dialogue with culture, a language suited to the conditions of the present time.

Diaconate Ordination, Cathedral of St. Mary, Fargo

Dec. 22–Jan. 2

HOLY FAMILY BOOKSTORE

Pastoral Center closed

Dec. 25

|

12 a.m.

Midnight Mass, Cathedral of St. Mary, Fargo

For Baptisms, First Holy Communion, Confirmation, weddings, and special occasion gifts and books.

Jan. 2–8

USCCB Bishops Retreat, Mundelein, Ill.

To Know God...

To Love God...

To Serve God...

Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

1336 25th Ave. S., Fargo 58103 (south of K-Mart) (701) 241-7842

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FOCUS ON FAITH

What can we do at Mass to help with the New Evangelization?

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ast month many priests, deacons, and lay representatives Ask A Priest from the dioceses of Fargo and Crook Father Matthew ston gathered for an event centered on Kraemer evangelization called the “Convocation of Parish Leaders.” Statistics clearly indicate that religious affiliation is decreasing, and Catholics are no exception. It is insufficient for clergy and the faithful to simply maintain the Church. Rather, they must go on mission to those who do not know Christ, or who have fallen away. Hence, there is need for a “New Evangelization.”

Evangelization has many components: the witness of authentic Christian living, the proclamation of the Gospel, strong catechesis, and personal relationships. The work of evangelization is also intimately tied to the liturgical life of the Church, most especially the Eucharist. Pope St. Paul VI writes in Evangelii nuntiandi:

To live the liturgy is to evangelize and be evangelized.

For the liturgy to have its full effect on us and on those we evangelize, we need to be internally disposed. Our heart needs to be attuned to the prayer of Christ to his Father. However, we are composite beings made up of body and soul. The internal is intricately connected to the external; what we perceive with our senses affects our soul. Consequently, we also need to attend to the externals of Christian worship.

There are many elements to consider: liturgical catechesis, extending a warm welcome to newcomers, and gently integrating those who join us into the life of the Church. One that rises to the top is re-claiming the beauty of the Mass. To focus on beauty is particularly opportune for two reasons: 1) it has been downplayed, misunderstood, or outright rejected in the recent past, and 2) the attractive power of beauty is particularly important for evangelization. The liturgy is a place where beauty is native.

The mystery of God is beautiful. The Paschal Mystery of Jesus Christ, the selfless love that goes to the very end, is achingly beautiful. The long experience of the Church has taught that this beauty is not transmitted to us in the abstract but in ways that engage the senses. Isn’t it true that gazing upon an image of Christ crucified is more beneficial than staring at a cinder “The role of evangelization is precisely to educate people in block wall? The beauty of the singing Church was a profound the faith in such a way as to lead each individual Christian part of St. Augustine’s conversion: “How I wept to hear Your to live the sacraments as true sacraments of faith — and hymns and songs, deeply moved by the voices of Your sweetly not to receive them passively or reluctantly.… In its singing Church! Their voices penetrated my ears, and with them totality, evangelization –— over and above the preaching of a truth found its way into my heart; my frozen feeling for God began to thaw, tears flowed and I experienced joy and relief” message — consists in the implantation of the Church, which does not exist without the driving force which is the sacramental (Confessions IX 6,14). life culminating in the Eucharist” (paragraphs 47 and 28).

If we are to be evangelization-minded, we must prioritize In other words, the liturgy, and most of all the Mass, is the beauty in the liturgy. This includes appropriate architectural source and summit of all evangelizing efforts. So, what can we design of the church, the correct layout and adornment of its do to make sure our parish Masses truly are helping with the interior, and music that is well-suited to the liturgical action.

Our Lord’s sacrifice was not cheap. May our art not express New Evangelization? the contrary! Not all churches have the same level of resources, One who leads an authentic Christian life attracts others to but it is always obvious when a church was built or renovated the Gospel. In the same way, an authentically celebrated liturgy with personal sacrifice and careful attention to detail. helps others to encounter Christ. There are two levels to this authenticity. The first level is simply “saying the black, and doing Evangelization consists of inviting others to go to the depths the red,” in other words, respecting the integrity of the liturgical and draw deeply from the source, which is Christ himself. We texts and observing liturgical laws. We should not change the must go there ourselves first, and pave the way for others to liturgy for the sake of evangelization. We should change our- follow. To do this, we must attend to both the internal and the selves. The second level consists in personal involvement, often external, disposing ourselves to enter into communion with called active participation. It is easy to go through the motions Lord, and making sure the lived experience of the liturgy is at Mass and never dive deeply into the mystery of Christ, but fertile ground for others to encounter God. that is exactly what we must do if we are to be transformed into Father Kraemer serves as the Secretary to the Bishop, Master of Ceremonies, his authentic witnesses.

Vice Chancellor, and Director of Liturgy for the Diocese of Fargo.

Our mission as baptized Christians is to participate more Editor’s Note: If you would like to submit a question for consideration deeply in the mystery of Christ and to lead others into that in a future column, please send to news@fargodiocese.org or mail same participation. Every one of us, called to be an evangelizing to New Earth, 5201 Bishops Blvd. S, Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104.

Christian, draws strength and life from the Mass, and with that strength and life, we go out to bring others to the same source.

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NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

Monsignor Allan Nilles, 94, passes away Oct. 31

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onsignor Allan F. Nilles passed away Oct. 31 at Eventide’s Sheyenne Crossing in West Fargo where he lived for the past ten years. A funeral Mass was celebrated Nov. 6 at the Church of the Nativity in Fargo. He was 94 when he died.

Monsignor Nilles, ordained as a priest on June 11, 1949, spent almost 70 years ministering to the needs of several generations of families and parishioners in eastern North Dakota. His assignments included serving for 14 years as the rector of St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fargo (1969–83) and for 15 years as pastor of St. Mary’s Church in Park River and St. Patrick’s Church in Crystal (1983–98).

He also served for five years as the associate pastor of St. James Church in Jamestown (1949–55), for five years as the Chancellor of the Diocese (1955–60), and for ten years as the Vicar General of the Diocese (1960–70). As Chancellor, he accompanied then Archbishop Aloisius Joseph Muench to Rome for his investiture as a Cardinal and was part of a small group to meet Pope John XXIII. Monsignor Nilles was given the title

of “Monsignor” in 1961 at the recommendation of Bishop Leo Dworschak while serving as the Vicar General. After his retirement in 1998 at age 75, he continued to assist at Nativity Church and other parishes in the Fargo/ Moorhead area.

Monsignor Nilles was well known throughout North Dakota—by Catholics and non-Catholics alike—for his musical talents. He was a long-time member of the Fargo Kiwanis Club, and played piano for their meetings for 33 years. He also entertained at a variety of other gatherings in Fargo and elsewhere. As a student at Catholic University in Washington D.C. in the 1940s, Allan provided organ music for masses at the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Monsignor Nilles was preceded in death by his parents, Hebert G. and Justine Nilles, as well as by two brothers, Herbert G. Nilles, Jr. and J. Gerald Nilles, and two sisters, Dorothy (Nilles) Smith and Margaret (Nilles) Mitten. He leaves behind numerous cousins, nephews and nieces, as well as many dear friends.

Wishing you a Blessed Christmas From the St. John Paul II Catholic Schools

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AROUND THE DIOCESE

The interior of St. John the Evangelist mostly inspired the award. (Courtesy Rock Tweten)

Grafton church recognized for its unique architecture

By Paul Braun

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t has stood as a landmark in Grafton since its construction in 1963, and now St. John the Evangelist Church is being heralded as an award-winning structure. The North Dakota Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) recognized St. John’s as the winner of its 2018 Test of Time award, which acknowledges significant contributions of timeless design to communities in North Dakota.

St. John’s was nominated by AIA member architect Bobbi Hepper Olson, the architect hired for the parish’s installation of a large stained-glass window from the former Cardinal Muench Seminary that was placed in the parish hall. When she saw the church, first from the outside and then the interior worship space, she knew she had to tell her peers in the industry about it.

“The interior has that timeless feeling and peaceful atmosphere,” Hepper Olson stated in her nomination. “As you enter the main church you find the white marble table that stands in the center of the sanctuary. You are aware of spectacular colors of light that radiate through the 12 prismatic windows of the pleated structure, and the 18 faceted glass windows on each side of the north and south facades.”

The church was designed by the architectural firm of Freeks, Sperl and Flynn in St. Paul, Minn. According to the nomination letter, the design of the church is based on a square plan, which differs from the typical cross floor plan used in most church designs.

The AIA announced the award during its Design Award luncheon on Oct. 10.

An exterior view of St. John the Evangelist Church in Grafton. (Courtesy Roch Tweten)

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AROUND THE DIOCESE

FirstChoice transition to Women’s Care Center model proving to be successful

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n the first months of FirstChoice Clinic’s transition to the Women’s Care Center model of pregnancy resources, the number of women seeking pregnancy tests jumped 179 percent.

“The number of those women that are abortion-minded when coming through our doors has also tripled,” said Angela Wambach, executive director of the Fargo, Bismarck, and Devils Lake sites.

The Women’s Care Center history helps explain its success.

When its original site opened in Indiana in 1984, it served 300 women; today, it serves over 400 daily in its 32 locations in 11 states, with 92 percent of pregnant women served overall having chosen life for their babies.

“Last year alone, over 28,000 Women’s Care clients were given needed help and resources,” Wambach said.

Now the nation’s largest, most effective pregnancy-resource center, Women’s Care Center has brought North Dakota into its story of success. “Our staff has never been busier,” Wambach said, “and all have been encouraged with the results, and empowered through the training to better meet clients’ needs.”

Recently, Women’s Care Center received the most prestigious pro-life award in the nation, the Evangelium Vitae Award, from the University of Notre Dame.

When Janet E. Smith, a respected Catholic theologian, founded that first center, she located it close to an abortion facility. “That’s one of the reasons it ended up being so successful, and something they try to duplicate with all their centers,” Wambach said.

Better access means more babies saved, and more parents prepared to move through an unplanned pregnancy successfully.

Other factors in success include: • Training. The Women’s Care Center model requires staff to complete 160 hours, or four weeks, of full-time training at their founding site in Indiana. “They learn the counseling model of meeting the woman where she’s at, truly helping her through her crisis, and individualizing how to best serve her,” said Wambach. “This leads to a more confident, cohesive staff. Before, without that training, we just did the best we could; this is the biggest change for us.”

• Ultrasound Frequency. While FirstChoice Clinic has always used ultrasounds, their usage has changed. “We do ultra sounds earlier, and more often now,” Wambach said.

“Each time a woman sees her baby, a powerful bonding occurs.” Frequent follow-ups showing the baby’s growth can increase bonding and encourage support people to also form an attachment, and rally around the woman and baby.

By Roxane B. Salonen

• Digital-ready. Digital ultrasound photos now can be sent directly to the woman’s cell phone, Wambach said, giving her a chance to forward these images to the father or others, and have them near as she’s considering her future.

• Time. The Women’s Care approach assures the women there’s time to decide, leading them away from a pressured decision, which, in some cases, could even end in an un- necessary and costly abortion. “A lot of women come in feeling like they need to make a decision now and get it over as soon as possible,” Wambach said. “We help relieve them of that.”

• More senses. In the past, women were only allowed to see the heartbeat by ultrasound; now, they hear it as well. “The more senses you use, the more bonding can occur,” said Wambach, who notes that the reactions have been even more powerful than anticipated. “We have noticed the looks on people’s faces, and the reactions to hearing the heartbeat.

It’s another opportunity to connect.”

• Visibility, Accessibility. The Women’s Care model, along with its centers being closer to the demographics of those needing the services have better signage to assure the women will find their way to the right doors, and better front-door access.

• Online advertising. Wambach says women of the age range most likely to seek help will do an online search; thus, current and future advertising needs to be online. “Bismarck, the first location to employ the new model, has already seen significant increases in the number of women coming in for pregnancy tests, up 179 percent. The number of abortion-minded women also has tripled,” she said, noting that the jump was noted after online advertising went into effect.

Wambach says an immediate goal in Fargo’s transition was finding a new site closer to where abortions happen here to better serve the community. “After an exhausting search, the good Lord has provided a spectacular building, one that we will never outgrow, at 103 North University Drive.”

Current statistics indicate that in Cass County, one baby is aborted for every two babies born. Our state’s only abortion clinic, located in downtown Fargo, also has seen a steady number of clients each year, Wambach says.

“Every community with a Women’s Care Center has seen exceptional abortion declines every time. We believe our community will see this too.”

Wambach says she’s been impressed with the dedication of the pro-life community in our diocese. “It’s really the communities, with their staff serving their own neighbors. The money stays here to serve our own.”

To learn more about the Women’s Care Center, or how you can help it further thrive, contact Katie Dukart at katie.dukart@ firstchoiceclinic.com. Donations can be sent to 1351 Page Dr. #205, Fargo, ND 58103 or at www.teamfirstchoice.com.

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Photo collage by Paul Braun

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Marriage preparation leads couples to fullness of truth and faith

By Kristina Lahr

C

hristmas is just around the corner. In this season when a community of life and love. we contemplate the mystery of Christ’s birth, gather “We’re all a team helping these engaged couples,” said Korsmo. with family and friends, and seek what ways we can “People who help with the weekends are teaching both theology give ourselves to others, it is often the most common time of and life skills. We have many couples who aren’t both Catholic, the year for dating couples to think of marriage and perhaps so we provide ways for couples to open up discussions to even pop the question, “Will you marry me?” explain Catholicism and the Church’s teaching and why we However, before a couple can recite their vows, the Diocese believe what we believe. Not all the couples that come to us of Fargo has many opportunities for couples to prepare for can express Theology of the Body and Trinitarian love to their their married life, namely a weekend seminar, Natural Family future spouse.”

Planning classes, sponsoring couples, and meetings with a priest The Fargo Diocese also requires couples to partake in a Natural or deacon who is officiating the wedding.

Family Planning class.

“Marriage is a sacrament that reflects Trinitarian love and “They meet three times and go over how the body works preparing couples for the theology behind the sacrament of as male and female and how to work with the body’s natural marriage and how it reflects that Trinitarian love and Christ’s rhythms,” said Korsmo. “There are no chemicals involved, which love for the Church is what marriage preparation about,” said is in line with Church teaching. But there’s also the component Jennie Korsmo, Marriage Preparation Coordinator for the of making sure every month that the couple is still communicating Diocese of Fargo. “Marriage preparation is an opportunity to about their decisions about children. It’s not all black and white.” accompany the couple, gradually leading them to the fullness Beyond learning about the sacrament and spirituality of of truth about faith, sacraments and marriage. This requires marriage, Theology of the Body, moral and sexual issues, and patience and work, but it is well worth the effort.”

Natural Family Planning, couples are also taught about financial The Diocese of Fargo requires a six-month engagement before management, communication, and conflict resolution so they the wedding. Information, skills, support and Christian values are adequately prepared to work through common conflicts in are essential to help couples develop a loving and meaningful married life. The weekend consists of activities, presentations, married relationship. The weekend seminar is designed to assignments, large group discussions, and couple interaction. assist engaged couples as they begin their process of forming “I see in the hearts and minds of the young who come for 12

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COVER STORY

Derek and Vanessa Bohnenkamt prepare to recite their wedding vows at St. James Basilica in Jamestown on Nov. 18, 2017. (Jodelle Gefroh Photography)

marriage preparation a real desire to succeed in their future marriage and an openness to the tools and advice of others in order to succeed,” said Father Luke Meyer, pastor at St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center in Grand Forks. “I also notice a serious and sincere pursuit of a lifelong commitment, conscious of its risks and challenges, but with a faith in God who has called them to this new life with each other.”

A priest or deacon will meet with a couple at least three times.

This is a chance for them to get to know the couple, the history of their relationship, and discuss the liturgical celebrations and options available for the wedding day.

“I look at it as the priest or deacon helping with marriage preparation who is the one who is going to witness their marriage, who is overall in charge of their preparation, so we make sure that the weekend, the NFP classes, and sponsoring couples assist them,” said Korsmo.

One of the meetings is spent discussing the pre-marital inventory such as FOCCUS, Facilitating Open Couple Communication, Understanding, and Study. FOCCUS is a self-diagnostic inventory designed to help couples learn more about themselves and their unique relationship. It is a tool to help couples communicate and work through issues before marriage.

“It’s not a test in compatibility,” said Korsmo, “but rather a snapshot of how they are communicating and it helps them work through things they need to talk through.”

“I hope that their relationship with each other and the Lord grows through honest and real questions and discussions,” said Father Meyer. “It’s a chance to be offered the full vision of the Church’s wisdom and teaching for the sacrament of marriage, aspects of which may not have been heard or understood prior to marriage preparation. Imparting an appreciation for children as a gift in God’s providence and understanding of St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body is key.”

During this time of preparation with couples, Father Meyer

also wants couples to find an appreciation and desire for prayer as a source of strength for the future.

“I have noticed a common movement in the process,” said Father Meyer, “where the splendor of truth shared over time leads to a peace and confidence for the days, months, and years ahead, which are such gifts in starting the adventure of marriage together.”

While there are fewer couples getting married, which is a trend nationwide, Korsmo says that the people approaching her for marriage preparation are more committed to the process and to their faith. She’s starting to see a stronger desire to cooperate with the Church’s vision for marriage. “‘Married in the Church’ has a larger meaning of entering into this new relationship with the vision of the Church, and with the support of the assembly and the communion of the saints,” said Father Meyer. “Marriage is a public reality, not a private contract, so to be ‘married in the Church’ is expressed in the way the public’s witness to faithful love builds up not only the domestic Church, but the entire mystical body.”

“Marriage preparation is really a lifelong preparation,” said Korsmo. “It starts from when we’re little to when we actually get married. We’re always trying to discern our vocation. Encouraging people to cooperate with God’s will is hugely important.”

Father Jared Kadlec blesses Larry and Patricia Zahradka during their wedding at St. Benedict’s Church in Wild Rice on Oct. 6, 2018. (Missy Strauch and Jamie Scheett)

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FAITH AND CULTURE

What is with kids these days?

By Father James Gross

Here are some of the main themes I took away from Mercadante’s analysis: 1) Effective catechesis of today’s youth has to involve not only the head (poring over the Catechism), but the heart (emotional investments) and the hands (acts of service). 2) Youth ministry needs to be integrated meaningfully into the lives of families: “We need to be on the side of parents.

Seeing them as a ‘problem’ is never a solution.” 3) We best serve our teens by also integrating them into the wealth of the parish community and the experiences of its members. Mercadante A review of Catholic books, movies, music advises that “we must transition from running independent, aybe the spiritual vitality of your parish is best separate ministries, to an approach that recognizes the interdependescribed as on ‘artificial life support.’ Don’t de- dencies of all of parish life, with discipleship of all parishioners spair.” These encouraging words are evidence of as a common goal.” And again, “Teens can’t help but feel loved a surprisingly wide-ranging book from a long-time Catholic by the community when members invest so much in their lives. youth minister and consultant, Frank Mercadante. Engaging They can’t help but feel an important part of the community a New Generation was released several years ago, yet the book when their gifts contribute to the overall life of the parish.” astutely captures recent trends and draws widely from socio- Don’t let the narrow scope of the title fool you; Engaging a logical data and surveys. Using these resources and decades New Generation provides food for thought for Catholics of every of ministry experience, Mercadante illustrates the changes in generation who long not to keep their treasure of faith buried the landscape of youth ministry that a Catholic of any age will in the ground, but to share it far and wide. find instructive.

Father Gross is the pastor at St. Mary’s Church in Grand Forks.

For one thing, well-meaning youth ministers might become frustrated with what appears to be a lack of interest or momentum in the students and families they now serve. There is frequently the temptation of “begging, pleading, and tearfully imploring from the pulpit” and “to resort to inducing guilt, and finally threatening to shut down the whole program if someone — anyone (with a pulse) — doesn’t volunteer!”

A Vision for Reaching Also, those who grew up in the 1970s or 1980s might project Catholic Teens” their own memories of adolescence upon today’s young people.

Mercadante urges his readers not to dismiss these differences, but to drill down and understand them better. A common title attributed to today’s young people is Millennials —those born between 1981 and 1996. Some social scientists have coined the term of “Homelanders” for the newest generation: children born after Sept. 11, 2001, who have not known life before then. Young people at the front of the Homelander generation will be graduating from high school next spring! This shows how much the landscape has shifted in only a few years.

What are some of the most obvious differences Mercadante has observed? For one thing, Baby Boomers (born 1946–64) and Generation Xers (born 1965–80) tended to create space from the framework of family and home life, which they often found stifling.

On the other hand, Millennials are more likely to value time spent with their parents and are more willing to cite their mothers and fathers as role models and even “heroes.” Consequently, the default format that older generations set up for today’s teens may not be the best fit for them. Mercadante puts it this way: “An isolated youth group, marooned from adults, meeting in a semi-remodeled bomb 17765 78TH ST. S.E., WAHPETON, ND 58075 shelter/youth room, and led by a couple of charismatic adults is simply not enough to produce a concentrated, potent form of teenage 701-642-2360 CARMELOFMARY@GMAIL.COM discipleship in today’s culture.”

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“Engaging a New Generation:

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STORIES OF FAITH

A Christmas prayer

By Father Bert Miller

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n a big city east of here lives a ten-year-old girl. She was adopted at birth and so was her older sibling. She has lived a happy life with her sister and parents until about a year ago.

It was in the deep, dark nights of winter when the little girl started to rage about wanting to see her birthmother. She would scream, waking everyone in the house. She would pound on her father demanding that he take her to her birthmother.

On these nights, the older sister would be brought to her grandparents’ home just down the street. Mom and Dad would work at calming the ten-year-old and get her back to sleep. These parents, both professionals working with young people at their jobs, sought help for their child. After repeated nights of rage, they had to turn to the local police.

After the police made a handful of visits to the home, it was suggested that the parents take the little girl to the local hospital for an evaluation. She was hospitalized with other children experiencing the same kinds of mental disturbances. She was there with at least one parent 24-hours-a-day for three months.

Mom was with her during the day and Dad was there at night.

She came home in the summer, but she would have to go to a day program for more evaluation and treatment. This would put a new spin on everyone’s summer plans and activities.

Dad asked Mom for a week away with his buddies for golfing, kayaking, running a marathon or two, shooting some hoops, watching movies, and reading. He thought he might get to go, but Mom said she wanted to think about it. After coming to a decision, she invited her parents over for dinner to give her support and witness the discussion about Dad’s summer vacation with his buddies.

The Mom said, “We have a sick child. If she had cancer and was undergoing chemotherapy, I think I could handle her during your vacation. I would take her to treatment, comfort her when we were at home, do special things with her. We would have our own little vacation while you were gone.”

She went on to say that they do not have a child with a physical ailment, but one with a mental illness. Her nights of rage are not predictable. “When it happens, I am scared for my life,” the mother said. “You are the only one who is strong enough to control her while she rages and screams and demands to be taken to her birthmother.”

“I am sorry,” Mom said, “but I cannot take care of our child alone.”

The dad did not pout, or cry, or make the summer miserable for the family he loved. He gave up his vacation with his buddies.

He sacrificed his fun for the joy of being a full-time father and spouse for his family.

They had a delightful summer. There were no more trips to

the hospital.

School started in the fall. It was a stressful time for the tenyear-old, but everything is going fine… for now.

At Christmas, let us say a prayer for this little girl and for families who struggle daily with the mental illness of a family member.

Father Bert Miller serves as pastor at St. Mary’s Church in Park River and St. Luke’s Church in Veseleyville.

Editor’s note: Stories of Faith is a recurring feature in New Earth.

If you have a faith story to tell, contact Father Bert Miller at bert.miller@fargodiocese.org.

Merry Christmas

Thank you to all our donors and supporters!

www.CatholicCharitiesND.org

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

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OUR CATHOLIC LIFE

Your gift makes a difference

W

e are forever grateful Catholic for the generous Charities support we have received during North Dakota Catholic Charities Sunday over Chad Prososki the past couple of years! Your gifts and others helped us meet our budget in both 2016 and 2017. However, this year we are still short of our goal, and we need your continued support to help many children and families in need. Here’s a very quick look at what we have accomplished in the past year.

Last year we helped 34 new moms along the journey through our pregnancy, parenting, and adoption program where they found the education and support they needed. Some mother’s chose parenting and some adoption. Thirteen infants were placed with waiting families. I wish you could see how overjoyed these adoptive families are with the gift of life in a new bundle of joy.

We helped many more children who have been in foster care, some for many years, to find forever families during the 2017–18 fiscal year. In fact, the AASK program finalized 192 adoptions.

That’s over 200 total kids who have suffered trauma and now received a new view of life through adoption.

Our counselors equipped 204 couples by offering communication

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training as part of their marriage preparation. We are also there for those who go through the annulment process. Often people wait a long time to ask for help. When they do, our counseling program clinicians can help restore their lives. Seeking counseling can be the best decision they ever made.

Many of the individuals with intellectual disabilities that come to us have nowhere else to turn. We are the court-appointed guardian for those who have no other family or friends available who can ensure that the most basic needs of these vulnerable adults are met. However, our staff does so much more! We are there for them when no one else may be, whether it is to celebrate life on their birthday or to be there in the final moments of death when “you are family” as the staff has been told. We have expanded from 449 openings to 469 openings, but our waitlist continues to be over 100.

Never think your gift doesn’t matter. It does. It changed the world for 200+ children this past year, and many more women, men, and their families. They are North Dakotans too, just like you and me, Catholics and people of all faiths who have been helped thanks to your support.

If you haven’t joined with us for Catholic Charities Sunday it’s not too late to make a bold, life-changing gift online at www.

CatholicCharitiesND.org or by phone at (701) 235-4457. Help us help even more people this coming year! May you be blessed during 2019, and be assured that your donations and support of your Catholic Charities organization always stay local to help those in need right here in North Dakota.

OUR CATHOLIC LIFE

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he Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary have been in the Fargo Diocese since 1882. The ministries which they have served have included founding parochial schools, building and staffing hospitals, and parish ministries in the city and in rural communities. We all are familiar with how the times have changed in the last 136 years, but the fruit of all that began with the sisters continues to this day. As competent lay leadership and staffing evolved in those places, sisters found new roles to nurture the faith life for all ages in our churches.

“Gratefully, we praise and thank God for all the people who serve side-by-side to bring new life and hope to those who feel overwhelmed by poverty.”

–Sister Stella Olson, PBVM As Thanksgiving approached this year, the sisters experienced another opportunity to be grateful to the people of St. Benedict’s Church in Wild Rice. Beginning in the late 1950s, sisters served the parish from time-to-time as catechists and at two different times Sister Anne O’Brien served eight years of faithful service as their parish minister. Out of this relationship, the people of the parish showed their appreciation for the sisters’ service by creating a family night with hot dogs, sloppy joes, and all that goes with that kind of a meal. After the meal, the fun continued with turkey bingo. This has been going on since the late 1960s with the proceeds going to the Fargo Presentation Sisters.

Each year the sisters who attend this event enjoy sharing the experience with the parents and children from the parish.

A special treat is seeing the happy faces of children of all ages

An attitude of gratitude helping out in the kitchen and acting as cashiers and runners. Although Sister’s our sisters have not Perspective served the parish in recent years, they Sister Stella Olson, continue to include PBVM us in this wonderful evening. For us, the fun does not stop there. The evening provides many hours of pleasurable conversation recounting the fun of the evening, the acquaintances renewed, and the tasty turkey on Thanksgiving Day. Prayer for the intentions of the families of this parish is our way of expressing our gratitude for all they have shared with us.

People ask us, “What is new?” Since the 1970s, there have been men and women in Fargo and beyond who expressed interest in our mission. From this expressed desire, an educational program was created to share the life and ministry of our foundress, Nano Nagle. Now in this 300th year of Nano’s birth, her mission and ministry is being lived out by over 125 Presentation Associates who use their talents and resources to serve people in need in their work and social environment.

Together with our Presentation Associates, we continue to share in the dream of Nano: to live contemplatively, walk lightly on the earth, and witness prophetically. We respond to this call in the context of where we live in mission, be it convent or another location. Gratefully, we praise and thank God for all the people who serve side-by-side to bring new life and hope to those who feel overwhelmed by poverty.

Grand Forks, ND | normanfuneral.com | 701.746.4337

WANT TO ADVERTISE IN NEW EARTH? Contact Kristina Lahr (701) 356-7900 newearthads@fargodiocese.org

Get Connected NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

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OUR CATHOLIC LIFE

All in God’s time

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here’s nothing magi Seminarian cal about June 2,” I told myself as I Life walked from the meeting room to Eric Seitz the chapel. It was February 2018, and I had just met with the formation faculty at the St. Paul Seminary. After a long conversation, we had decided to delay my diaconate ordination. Though I had been in seminary for many years, I didn’t have the clarity to approach ordination freely and without reservation. I wanted more time for prayer and growth. The decision of this meeting meant that all of my classmates would be ordained in the summer, and I would remain the sole layman.

In one way, the decision was easy. Given the discussion that day, it was clear delaying the ordination would be the best decision. I knew that the hard part would be telling people.

With some people, it was easy. My parents understood quite easily and were at peace with it. So were my siblings and closest friends at the seminary. When I told my academic advisor, he said, “Well, if you’re making that decision, then it’s probably the correct one. You’ve got common sense.”

Other conversations were a little more complicated. One person suspected that I was being mistreated by the seminary.

Others assumed that I was doubting my vocation. I wasn’t, but at least that was a charitable interpretation. Some didn’t even receive the news until well after the fact, thinking that I was already a deacon, which certainly made for an interesting turn

in the conversation.

My classmates at the seminary were probably the most fun.

My status as a layman in a class full of deacons soon led to many jokes about “not-deacon Eric.” “All of the deacons and Eric, met for a meeting after lunch.” Or, “You’ll understand when you’re a deacon.” And, “What did you preach about this weekend… oh wait!” Frankly, I prefer the joking to people being afraid to talk about it.

Through all of this, I have not doubted that February decision.

After that fateful conversation, I walked to the chapel to talk with God. Kneeling before the tabernacle, the Lord gave me a sense of peace, not as the world gives, but as he gives. I have known through this entire experience that I was following the will of God. “In his will is our peace,” Dante says.

And now the joy of ordination is coming. The past six months since my originally scheduled date have been spiritually and humanly fruitful. I know that I will be entering the diaconate with a greater degree of serenity and readiness than if I was ordained in June. There was nothing magical about June 2, but I know that Dec. 15 is right. The seminary, the diocese, and I are all in agreement on this.

Please keep me, and all priests, deacons, and seminarians in your prayers. I expect that my service as a minister of the Church will be full of both joy and challenge. Like Peter walking on the water, it is easy for us in ministry to take our eyes off our Lord and look instead at the waves in the wind. Your prayers are precious to us.

Seitz is a Theology IV seminarian studying at St. Paul Seminary, St. Paul, Minn. He will be ordained a transitional deacon on Dec. 15, 2018.

Editor’s Note: Seminarian Life is a column written by current Diocese of Fargo seminarians. Please continue to pray for them.

Give a Gift to Help Keep the TV Mass on the Air

The best gift for those you love who are nursing home residents, shut-ins, or non-practicing CatholicsWDAY, Channel 6, Fargo – WDAZ, Channel 8, Grand Forks 10:30 a.m. Sunday Name_________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________ City/State/Zip_________________________________________ Phone_________________________________________________ A GIFT FOR: Name_________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________ City/State/Zip_________________________________________

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NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

Or, IN MEMORY OF: Name________________________________________________ I would like this listed at the end of the TV Mass on this date(s): ______________________________________________________ MAIL TO: TV Mass, Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104-7605

OUR CATHOLIC LIFE

O Antiphons point to social doctrine of the church

T

he liturgy of the Advent and Christmas seasons reveals many aspects of our faith. Hidden among them are reflections relevant to the church’s social doctrine. The O Antiphons are one example.

The O Antiphons are short chants sung from Dec. 17–23.

Each antiphon starts with a call to Christ using a messianic title from the Old Testament. The call is followed by imagery from the prophesies of Isaiah, and ends with a plea for the Messiah to “come.” Here are some key phrases that point to the social doctrine of the church.

December 17

O Wisdom of our God Most High, guiding creation with power and love: come to teach us the path of knowledge!

This antiphon reminds us that God is the source of wisdom and that knowledge alone is not sufficient. The use of knowledge — our reason — must be guided by God’s wisdom. This is called the forming of conscience, which is the ability to recognize the moral quality of an act. A well-formed conscience equips us to address political questions.

Note also the reminder that God guides creation with power and love. All creation belongs to God. We are tasked with being responsible stewards of his creation.

December 18

O Leader of the House of Israel, giver of the Law to Moses on Sinai: come to rescue us with your mighty power!

God gave the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai.

These commandments provide the foundation of all law. They reveal not only our fidelity with God, but also the basis of right relations between each other. These truths are expressed in the natural law written into our hearts and are knowable through human reason by all persons of good will. This understanding of the law provides the basis of good government.

The “come” clause calls for Christ to rescue us. This can be understood in two ways. First, only through Christ, the fulfillment of the law, are we truly rescued. Second, it reminds us that without sound laws rooted in God’s truth, we are “lost in the wilderness” like the people of Israel.

member those who are imprisoned now, whether behind actual bars or trapped Catholic in addiction, poverty, affliction, or subju- Action gation.

In Old Testament Christoper Dodson times, the “gate” was the place where people brought their legal pleas. Judges stood at the gates to decide disputes. The antiphon brings to mind the need to judge with mercy and without undue partiality toward race, ethnicity, sex, immigration status, or nationality.

December 21

O Radiant Dawn, splendor of eternal light, sun of justice: come and shine on those who dwell in darkness and in the shadow of death.

Justice permeates the social teachings of the church. It means giving what is due — opposed to what is deserved — to God and others. Christ, the “sun of justice,” shines light on and reveals what is due, including what is due to a person by virtue of being a human person created in the image of God.

December 22

O King of all nations and keystone of the Church: come and save man, whom you formed from the dust!

This antiphon subtly points to the Incarnation. God became man, the very creature that he formed from the dust. The fact that the divine became human has enormous implications for how we treat one another, including why laws should respect the human body, the biological basis of gender, the true nature of marriage, and the right to life.

December 23

O Emmanuel, our King and Giver of Law: come to save us, Lord our God! This antiphon repeats three of the messages in the previous antiphons. Emmanuel means “God with us,” pointing to the December 19 Incarnation. It also points again to the consequences of God as O Root of Jesse’s stem, “king” and “giver of law.” sign of God’s love for all his people: As Christians we must work for justice to build his kingdom come to save us without delay! on earth. True salvation, however, comes only through Christ.

Here again we see the need for rescue. Also, the antiphon reminds No earthly ideology, political platform, or economic system will us of God’s love. That love, Pope Benedict XVI reminded us in create heaven on earth. Our salvation is with him and through his encyclicals, should motivate political action. him. Therefore, we continually walk as pilgrims of peace and justice here on earth while continually pleading, “Come to save December 20 us, Lord our God.” O Key of David, opening the gates of God’s eternal Kingdom: Christopher Dodson is executive director of the North Dakota Catholic come and free the prisoners of darkness!

Conference. The NDCC acts on behalf of the Catholic bishops of North The obvious message of this antiphon is that Christ is the Dakota to respond to public policy issues of concern to the Catholic gate or “door” to eternal life (John 10:9). It also calls us to re- Church and to educate Catholics and the public about Catholic social doctrine. The conference website is ndcatholic.org.

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

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OUR CATHOLIC LIFE

Five tips help sort through year-end giving considerations

M

ost people like to do their major giving Stewardship towards the end of the year. This Steve Schons probably occurs for several reasons.

The closing of the tax season encourages itemizers to obtain income tax deductions, a barrage of earnest appeals by nonprofits increases awareness of financial need, and many are simply pre-disposed to end the year by making a charitable gift.

Here are five tips to help you make the most of your year- end giving: 1. Calculate your income. Try to get a handle on your tax liability for the year. Did your unearned income increase? Did you sell any appreciated assets? Will you owe more taxes? This alone may motivate you to increase your giving before Dec. 31. In fact, you may even want to move some of your giving forward from next year to create a larger income tax deduction for yourself this year. Non-itemizers may especially find this “grouping of gifts” useful in order to take advantage of an itemized tax return every other year.

In any case, by the time you fill out your income tax return, it will be too late to make charitable gifts for the previous year.

Take the time to do some planning while you still have the opportunity to make a year-end gift.

2. Review your stocks. Look at the stocks you have held for more than a year. Which ones have appreciated the most? It may be prudent for you to make your year-end gift using one or more of these stocks. Here’s why: If you sold the stock, you would incur capital gains tax on the appreciation. However, if you give the stock to your church or diocese, no one pays tax, and you get a charitable deduction for the full amount of the stock, just as you would if your gift was made with cash.

What’s more, if you can’t use all of the income tax charitable deduction resulting from the gift, you can carry it forward for up to an additional five years.

3. Consider a life-income gift. Through the Catholic Development Foundation, you can make a gift now, obtain tax benefits and receive income for the rest of your life. Sound too good to be true? A few minutes of your time may convince you otherwise.

We can provide personalized illustrations and printed material to assist you and your advisor(s).

4. Do your giving before the end of the year. This is especially true if you want to make a gift of noncash assets, such as stock, real estate, etc. It also applies to life-income gifts like gift annuities and trust arrangements. The sooner you can get your gift activity going, the better it will be for everyone concerned.

5. Talk to your advisor. Before making any significant gift to your church or to any other nonprofit for that matter, you 20

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

should have your accountant, attorney or other advisor help you understand the impact of your gift on your income tax return and estate.

For more information about the year-end giving opportunities, please call me at (701) 356-7926 or email steve.schons@fargodiocese.org.

Steve Schons is Director of Stewardship and Development for the Diocese of Fargo.

millions

Giving back to our Catholic communities in grants, support & scholarships each year.

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OUR CATHOLIC LIFE

A

What are you giving for Christmas?

s they celebrated their first Christmas in America 150 years ago, our Little Sisters in Baltimore noted that the donations received included “twelve turkeys, four ducks, sixteen chickens and so many other good things that we didn’t know what to do with it all!” They concluded, “In this country Christmas is like the feast of the poor!”

I decided to take a look at Christmas giving in 19th century America to see if this was true.

In 1843 Charles Dickens published A Christmas Carol, telling the story of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and his Christmas Eve conversion. As the story opens, Scrooge is approached by two men asking for a cash donation to help the poor. He refuses, answering that there are prisons and workhouses for the destitute and he pays taxes to support them.

Scrooge’s attitude was quite prevalent in America as well as England. Our young nation was being built up through hard work and self-reliance. Commerce and industry were taking off, and with them a new spirit of competition, along with the uncompromising pursuit of profit. There was also a growing social divide between the rich and the poor.

Like Scrooge, many Americans believed that the “unworthy” poor — those who were judged to have caused their own misery — belonged in prison or the workhouse, where the conditions were anything but humane. The one group of destitute individuals that elicited universal sympathy was impoverished children.

People concerned about poverty were encouraged to donate to churches or charitable institutions rather than giving directly to the poor.

A January 1844 article in the New York Tribune advised that if all the money wasted on unnecessary Christmas trifles was “rightly appropriated… Pauperism and its attendant miseries could be eliminated.” An 1853 editorial in the same newspaper ran with the headline, “Do Not Give to Street Beggars.” Giving directly to the poor was believed to encourage beggary.

The New York Times expressed similar sentiments. An 1854 editorial asserted that money contributed to worthy organizations “will find where the misery is.” The paper encouraged its readers to give to “those excellent institutions, in whose hands, if you place a dollar, you do what, individually, you could not make five dollars do.”

Charitable giving was on its way to becoming a well-oiled yet impersonal machine. Large Christmas dinners for the poor at New York’s Madison Square Garden served up to 20,000 people at a time as the wealthy looked on as spectators. Is this how charity should be administered?

Worthy institutions of all types will always play an important role in relieving the distress of the poor, but contrary to what the New York Tribune asserted, poverty will never be completely eliminated. Christ himself foretold, “The poor you will always have with you;” and “Whatsoever you do to the least of my brethren, you do to me.”

In the 1860s and 70s, the Little Sisters were a fledgling community in a foreign land, so the people who supported us were definitely

taking a risk! I am especially grateful for those who gave the gift of their presLittle Sisters ence, and those who knew how to go beof the Poor yond what might be considered life’s Sister Constance necessities in order Veit, LSP to make the elderly feel loved.

Our archives are full of stories of such thoughtful charity. The Galt House Hotel, a Louisville institution, donated leftovers on a daily basis. On Christmas day in 1869 the hotel management requested that the Sisters send their begging wagon over to the hotel at noon.

The Little Sisters assumed they would receive leftovers as they usually did, but the hotel employees filled the wagon with freshly made treats of all kinds, which made the residents quite happy!

Thanks to the generosity of such wonderful people I can see how the Sisters could say that in this country, Christmas is the feast of the poor.

As we reflect on how best to respond to the cry of the poor in our own time, I’d like to suggest that even the most destitute individual deserves a look of love and the gift of humanity.

In his encyclical on charity Pope Benedict XVI wrote that although charitable organizations might be “a political necessity,” if we look upon others from the perspective of Jesus Christ we can perceive in them an interior desire for a sign of love and concern.

“Seeing with the eyes of Christ, I can give to others much more than their outward necessities; I can give them the look of love which they crave.”

Let’s try to be generous in giving this look of love this Christmas!

Sister Constance Veit is director of communications for the Little Sisters of the Poor.

Diocesan policy: Reporting child abuse The Diocese of Fargo is committed to the protection of youth.

Please report any incidents or suspected incidents of child abuse, including sexual abuse, to civil authorities. If the situation involves a member of the clergy or a religious order, a seminarian or anemployee of a Catholic school, parish, the diocesan offices or other Catholic entity within the diocese, we ask that you also report the incident or suspected incident to Monsignor Joseph P. Goering at (701) 356-7945 or Larry Bernhardt at (701) 356-7965 or VictimAssistance@fargodiocese.org.

For additional information about victim assistance, visit www. fargodiocese.org/victimassistance.

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

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WHAT’S HAPPENING

Events across the diocese All men invited to Catholic Man Night

All men are invited to Catholic Man Night in the Fargo area.

The evening begins with adoration and confession at 6 p.m. followed by a presentation, dinner, and discussion. On Jan. 8, Father Metzger will present at Blessed Sacrament Church in West Fargo. Contact Willie Gartner at (701) 799-0601.

Life in the Spirit weekend in Harvey

Experience a Life in the Spirit weekend Jan. 11 at 6 p.m. through Jan.13 at 3 p.m. at St. Cecilia’s Church in Harvey. The seminar serves as an introduction or renewal to a life in the power of the Holy Spirit. The weekend includes praise and worship, talks and testimony, discussion groups, healing of memories, and more.

Register by Jan 8. Meals provided. Free will offering. Contact Rosalie at raxtman@gondtc.com or (701) 324-2706. Housing available in St. Cecilia’s Social Center or in private homes.

Jamestown to host Eucharistic miracles program

Documented and Vatican approved Eucharist miracles have occurred and are still occurring worldwide. On Jan. 14 at 7 p.m., 152 Eucharist miracles will be on display at St. James Basilica in Jamestown. With an extensive assortment of photographs and historical descriptions, the exhibition presents some of the principal Eucharistic miracles that took place throughout the ages, which have been recognized, approved, and documented by the Vatican. The exhibition has visited over 3,000 parishes worldwide. Free-will offering. All are invited.

9 Days for Life Novena begins Jan. 14

Jan. 14-22 will mark the USCCB’s nationwide Novena 9 Days for Life. The prayer effort takes place during the U.S. bishops’ annual period of prayer and action focused on cherishing the gift of every person’s life. While the overarching intention of the centerpiece novena is the end to abortion, each days’ prayer focuses on a different aspect of respecting each other’s God-given dignity. Sign up to receive the novena: free mobile app, text message, email, or online. Visit www.9daysforlife.com.

40 Days for Life ND invites you to an evening of thanksgiving

Ramona Trevino will be the guest speaker at an evening event honoring the participants of the 40 Days for Life fall campaign and all who stand for life. Join Ramona as she shares her story of conversion from an abortion provider to an advocate for life on Jan. 22 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Avalon Events Center in

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Fargo. Registration not required. Free will offering. Sponsored by 40 Days for Life ND. Contact the Pregnancy Help Center at (701) 284-6601.

Missionary Discipleship for the Gospel of Life… join Johnette Benkovic for lunch

Johnette Benkovic will be the guest speaker at a pro-life luncheon on Feb. 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sts. Anne and Joachim Church in Fargo. Johnette is the founder and president of Women of Grace, a Catholic apostolate for women featuring conferences, media, and study groups. She has been a consistent presence on Catholic radio and television. She will be speaking on Missionary Discipleship for the Gospel of Life. Cost is $15.

Sponsored by the Diocese of Fargo Respect Life Office. Register by Feb. 10 at www.fargodiocese.org/respectlife or call (701) 356-7900.

A GLIMPSE OF THE PAST

These news items, compiled by Danielle Thomas, were found in New Earth and its predecessor, Catholic Action News.

75 years ago — 1943

Most Reverend Aloysius J. Muench, Bishop of Fargo, was the honored guest and principal speaker for the golden jubilee of the build of Sts. Peter and Paul Mission Church of Sweetwater, near Webster, ND. The current pastor, Rev. W. J. Osinski, was celebrant of the solemn high Mass. A dinner reception sponsored by the ladies altar society and local Knights of Columbus was held at Assumption Church in Starkweather.

50 years ago — 1968

Upon the request of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, Pope Paul VI (now Saint Paul VI), gave United States bishops permission to re-activate the permanent diaconate as an active order of ministry. Candidates could include men above the age of twenty-five.

(A 2015 study by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) reported that there were over 18,500 permanent deacons in the United States. The Diocese of Fargo currently has 36 active and 8 retired permanent deacons and 8 deaconate candidates.)

20 years ago — 1998

St. Cecilia’s Church in Harvey joined with First Lutheran Church to present “The Glorious Sounds of Christmas.”

The ecumenical holiday concert featured a 65-voice adult choir and a delightful 50-voice children’s Singing Christmas Tree. Also featured was St. Cecilia’s Hand Bell Choir. Funds raised from the event went to the community Food Pantry to provide fully stocked Christmas baskets for those in need.

Life’s milestones Share life’s milestones

As a way to celebrate life and love, we encourage parishioners throughout the Diocese of Fargo to send a photo and news brief about golden anniversaries and anniversaries of 60 or more years or birthdays of 80 or more years to: New Earth, Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd. S., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104 or news@fargodiocese.org.

Dennis and Verna Beneda, parishioners of St Joseph’s Church in Lankin, celebrated their 65th anniversary with family and an Order of Blessing by Father Lefor during Mass. They were married Aug. 4 at St. Luke’s in Veseleyville. They have 5 children, 19 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Calvin and Ilah Mae Lettenmaier celebrated their 70th anniversary on Oct. 19. They were married by Father Gerard O’Donoghue at Sacred Heart Church in Sanborn where they are still parishioners. They have seven children, 17 grandchildren, and 20 great-grandchildren.

Tom and Mary Dion, parishioners of St. Joseph Church in Devils Lake, will celebrate 50 years of marriage on Dec. 27. They were married at St. Joseph’s, and their six children were baptized there and attended St. Joseph’s School. Tom and Mary have 13 grandchildren.

Marlen and Diane McLaughlin will celebrate their 50th anniversary on Dec. 28. They were married at St. John the Baptist Church in Ardoch.

They are parishioners of St. Joseph’s Church in Lankin.

They have two daughters, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.

Harvey and Rosemary Heise, parishioners of Holy Cross Church in West Fargo, celebrated 50 years of marriage on Nov. 16. They have three children and six grandchildren.

Helen Differding, parishioner at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Fargo, celebrated her 90th birthday on Dec. 10. Helen and her deceased husband, Francis, raised six children, and have 21 grandchildren, and 45 great-grandchildren.

Norman and Donna Heisler, parishioners of St Joseph’s Church in Devils Lake, celebrated their 62nd anniversary Nov. 26. They were married at St. Boniface Church in Esmond. They have six children, eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Rita Mauch, parishioner at St. John’s Church in Wahpeton, celebrated her 99th birthday on Nov. 27. She has 11 children, 41 grandchildren, and 73 great-grandchildren.

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

23

Wild Rice (Paul Braun | New Earth)

Arlene Lilleghost-Lovejoy-Gomez–Apr. 8, 2018; Craig L. Littleghost–Apr. 18, 2018; Ernest P. Mckay– June 2, 2018; Forrest E. Weber–June 5, 2018; Emily A. Redroad – June 27, 2018; Claudette A. Jackson-Ross–June 29, 2018; Delores M. Cavanaugh-Yankton–July 3, 2018; Kathleen A. Rider-Alberts– July 11, 2018; Phyllis M. Herman-Mckay– July 14, 2018; Mary A. Littleghost–Aug. 6, 2018; Francis Lovejoy –Aug. 13, 2018; John GoodIron–Aug. 9, 2018; Wambli C. DuBois–Sept. 25, 2018.

MANTADOR – Sts. Peter and Paul: Alice Haus–Dec. 25, 2017; Joan Heitkamp–Jan. 31, 2018; Doreen Heitkamp–Apr. 29, 2018; Leo Pellman–May 9, 2018.

MOORETON – St. Anthony: Clyde Klosterman–Nov. 25, 2017.

ST. JOHN – St. John: LeRoy “Popeye” Gustafson–Oct. 8, 2018.

WESTHOPE – St. Andrew: James Artz–Mar. 22, 2018.

We Remember A call to pray for those who have gone before us

Please remember in prayer the faithful departed from our parishes, our diocese, and throughout the world.

The following names of deceased parishioners were submitted after the publishing date of the November New Earth.

WILLOW CITY – Notre Dame: James Bower–Apr. 29, 2018; Robert Pollman–July 8, 2018.

Hurley’s Religious Goods Inc

Serving our faith community Since 1951

DIOCESE OF FARGO BOTTINEAU – St. Mark: Anna McNight–Dec. 18, 2017; Louis A. Volk–Feb. 17, 2018; Marilyn “Mickie” Gibson–May 23, 2018; Marion Honer– Sept. 7, 2018; Devon Main–Oct. 4, 2018; Walter Pasicznyk–Oct. 11, 2018.

FARGO – St. Paul Newman Center: Robert Goldader–Mar. 29, 2018.

ROLETTE – Sacred Heart: Lavina Lemieux–Feb. 11, 2018; Ronald Malo–Mar. 15, 2018; Stanley Casavant–Sept. 23, 2018; Trent Boucher–Oct. 4, 2018.

ST. MICHAEL – St. Michael: George DeMarce, Sr.–Oct. 28, 2017; Davey L. Belgarde– Nov. 13, 2017; Phyllis Papachek–Nov. 14, 2017; David Lohnes, Sr. –Jan. 28, 2018; Sophia J. Leaf-Abrahmson –Feb. 20, 2018; Herman Cavanaugh–Mar. 19, 2018;

24

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

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Caring for You!

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

25

(Tyson Kuznia | Legacy Photography)

Thank you for your dedication to Christ and his Church Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

With praise and thanksgiving to God, I am deeply grateful for your generosity during the past fiscal year. Your support helps us to be Christ to others, and provides for catechesis, Catholic education, charity, justice, worship, personal spiritual growth, and pastoral ministry. In addition to supporting your parishes and diocese, your compassionate and generous response to national and international appeals has been edifying!

What follows is the annual accountability report, which covers the fiscal year ending June 30, 2018. The Diocesan Finance Council, represented by 10 laypersons from throughout the diocese and five diocesan representatives, assists me in the painstaking task of overseeing diocesan finances. We are thankful for your generous and consistent financial support. May God bless you and reward you for your financial assistance, prayers and acts of service in response to his call.

The condensed summary of our reports, found in this issue, is intended to give you a broad view of the normal operations of our diocese and its ministries, as well as the contributions made by our diocese to the national and international work of the Church. This report summarizes over 60 pages of audit reports on our three diocesan entities, the Diocese of Fargo, the Catholic Church Deposit & Loan Fund, and the Catholic Development Foundation. Complete audited financial reports are available to the faithful of the diocese via links on our website under the 26

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

Finance Office. A copy of each report may also be reviewed in the Diocesan Finance Office.

These ministries and other diocesan services link together the parishes which constitute the Diocese of Fargo. Good stewardship begins with the faith and understanding that we all are called to give back to God a first portion of the gifts he has bestowed on us. Your gifts of time, talent, and treasure are reflected in this annual report. Your trust in God is reflected in your gifts to the Church and your parishes.

As in the past, we planned and evaluated the compelling needs of the diocesan Church against available resources. I believe that responsible and creative stewardship guided this process, and I pledge to continue good stewardship in the future.

I am convinced that through the goodness and generosity of the Catholics of our diocese, we will continue to rise to meet the needs of our brothers and sisters. Your continued support through prayer, volunteer service, and financial commitment, is a positive sign of a community alive in our Catholic faith. May God generously reward and bless you and your families.

You are in my constant prayers. Please pray for me.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Rev. John T. Folda Bishop of Fargo

DIOCESAN FINANCIAL REPORT 2018

Diocese of Fargo statement of operating income and expenses for year ending June 30, 2018 Slice : 7

Slice : 3

CATHEDRAL SUBSIDY Slice : 12

GRANTS

Slice : 24

FAITH EDUCATION Slice : 27

ENDOWMENT FUND EARNINGS

CHANCERY FUNCTIONS

SICK AND ELDERLY Slice : 5 PRIESTS

GOD’S GIFT APPEAL INCOME

DEVELOPMENT AND Slice : 6 STEWARDSHIP

Slice : 53

Slice : 28

FAMILY LIFE

PROGRAMMING DONATIONS/ CONTRIBUTIONS

Expenditures: Slice

Slice

Faith Education

Revenues: God's Gift Appeal Income

$3,040,905

53%

Slice Slice ProgrammingSlice Donations/Contribution

Slice $1,611,241

28%

$717,033

12%

Endowment Fund Earnings Grants TOTAL INCOME

VOCATIONS

Slice : 21

Slice

100%

Slice

Slice

Slice

$1,304,215

Slice

24% meta-chart.com

Sick and Elderly Priests

$295,779

5%

Development and Stewardship

$328,868

6%

Vocations

$773,968 14%

meta-chart.com

$408,931 7% $5,778,110

Slice : 14

Family Life

$1,161,779

21%

Chancery Functions

$1,470,081

27%

$150,000

3%

$5,484,690

100%

Cathedral Subsidy TOTAL EXPENSES

Complete audited financial statements are available for review on our website under the Finance Office link www.fargodiocese.org/finance or by contacting the Finance Office (701) 356-7930 for an appointment.

A message from Catholic Development Foundation

Dear Friends,

We have all heard the saying, “We reap what we sow.” Since 1985, the Catholic Development Foundation (CDF) has been sowing the seeds of generous Catholics throughout the Diocese of Fargo. Because of this generosity, hundreds of Catholic programs and ministries within the framework of our diocese will continue to grow and strengthen our Catholic faith community for years to come.

CDF is a securely structured organization that was incorporated in 1985. As a publicly supported 501(c) (3) non-profit organization, CDF helps donors achieve their charitable and Serving the faithful of financial goals. The foundation ensures the security of all donated funds. The funds are used only for their intended purposes as designated by the donors.

CDF has produced wonderful benefits for many parishes and diocesan programs over the last five years. Distributions from the CDF for parishes, diocesan programs and clergy/seminarian education have totaled $9,427,481.

On pages 30-31, you will see a list of endowments currently established for various Catholic ministries and parishes. I

encourage you to review this list to see which ones are created in your community or otherwise important to you. All Diocese of Fargo parishes have an endowment established in the CDF. If you do not see your parish listed, it’s simply because it hasn’t been funded by a donation yet.

God has planted within us a desire to give and to receive. The CDF’s ability to easily receive gifts and help donors offer gifts is rewarding both for donors and for those who are assisted. Donors know their gifts are long-term investments for current and future Catholics.

I encourage you to become a Catholic Development Foundation donor. Every the Diocese of Fargo contribution, no matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of Catholics in our diocese. Planning and making a gift now will allow you to witness your charity in action. Thank you and may your blessings be multiplied through your generosity to the CDF. For more information about Catholic Development Foundation, visit www.cdfnd.org or call (701) 356-7926.

Sincerely,

Steve Schons | President NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

27

DIOCESAN FINANCIAL REPORT 2018

Other financial funds and related information rate paid for deposits is 3%, and the rate charged on loans is 4%.

These rates are based on the Prime Rate, and are adjusted The Custodial Fund is used for monies that are from national quarterly.

The deposit rate is Prime minus 2%, and the loan rate collections taken up in the parishes, and the Diocesan Insurance is Prime minus 1% as of the adjustment date.

Program. When national collections (i.e. Black & Indian Mission, Peter’s Pence/Holy Father, Good Friday/Holy Land, Religious There are 13 loans outstanding for $15,658,486, and 274 parRetirement) are taken, the monies from each parish are sent to ishes, institutions, and Catholic entities with deposit notes of the Diocese. Once all the monies from all parishes are received, $43,223,694. a single check is sent on behalf of the people of the diocese to CATHOLIC DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION the intended national office or agency.

The Catholic Development Foundation was established in 1985 During this past year, the following collections were forwarded as a separate entity that exists as an “umbrella Foundation” for to national offices: Catholic churches and institutions. The Foundation serves as a Black & Indian Missions...................................................... $29,148 vehicle for Catholic entities to accumulate endowments, perpetual World Mission/Propagation of the Faith......................... $38,699 care funds, and the like through bequests and deferred gift planning. Gift planning tools such as charitable gift annuities, Peter’s Pence/Holy Father................................................. $31,074 charitable remainder uni-trusts, charitable lead annuity trusts Good Friday/Holy Land...................................................... $54,250 and other deferred gift plans utilize the Foundation as a means Religious Retirement.......................................................... $31,608 of providing for the Church after our earthly existence.

Catholic Home Missions Appeal....................................... $22,745 At June 30, 2018 there were: Catholic Relief Services........................................................ $6,856 Endowments for parishes and agencies..................... $17,479,982 Trinity Dome Collection...................................................... $2,220 Endowments for Seminarians/Clergy Education...... $19,837,427 Hurricane Relief................................................................ $201,510 Perpetual Care Cemetery Funds.................................. $2,369,813 Others (e.g., Aid to Eastern Europe, Haiti, CCND)........ $5,036

CUSTODIAL FUND

The Diocese of Fargo received $120,500 from the Black & Indian Mission Office this year for direct aid to Native American communities in the diocese, and $35,000 from the Catholic Home Mission Office for Diocesan programming and economic assistance to three parishes.

All parishes participate in the diocesan insurance program through Catholic Mutual. Catholic Mutual sends bills to the parishes based on a $1,000 deductible. The parishes make payments to the Diocese for these insurance premiums. Catholic Mutual bills the Diocese based on a $25,000 deductible, and the Diocese makes payments to Catholic Mutual. The premium difference or spread between the $1,000 and $25,000 deductibles is retained in the Insurance Reserve and is used to pay insurance claims between the $1,000 and $25,000 level.

CATHOLIC CHURCH DEPOSIT & LOAN FUND OF EASTERN NORTH DAKOTA

The Catholic Church Deposit & Loan Fund of Eastern North Dakota is a separate corporate entity that exists so that Catholic churches and institutions may make deposits to and borrow from it in an effort to reduce the cost of funds to “sister” organizations. The Deposit & Loan Fund was established during the Depression in 1937 by Cardinal Aloysius Muench after having numerous financial institutions shut their doors in his face when requesting loans for the building of churches within the Fargo diocese. As a cooperative group, the investors and debtors of the Deposit & Loan Fund have withstood many adversities.

The money deposited with the Deposit & Loan Fund belongs to the individual churches and institutions that have deposited the money, and is available for their use. As of July 1, 2018, the

28

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

Endowments for Catholic schools............................. $13,344,914 Annuities/Uni-trusts........................................................ $2,748,469 Donor Advised Funds..................................................... $4,488,549 The Catholic Development Foundation provides a permanent way for donors to make a positive impact for years to come on the well-being of the Catholic Church and people served through its many ministries.

As an umbrella foundation for the Catholic entities in the Fargo diocese, the Catholic Development Foundation seeks to support financially the spiritual, educational, and social well-being of our Catholic Faith community and to help donors achieve their charitable and financial goals through a legacy gift. All endowments are qualified endowment funds making contributions eligible for the 40% North Dakota Tax Credit.

What is an endowment fund?

Endowment gifts are to a parish what retirement funds are to an individual – they represent set-aside resources for the future. Endowment dollars can make it possible to underwrite programs, projects, positions and even facilities that might be impossible to maintain otherwise.

An endowment can allow the donor to honor or memorialize a loved one, parish, or diocesan cause as a permanent philanthropic legacy.

An endowment gift is perpetual, never-ending. It leaves a lasting impression of your personal values and beliefs for the charity and for family and friends.

DIOCESAN FINANCIAL REPORT 2018

Endowments Awarded July 1, 2017 – June 30, 2018 OTHER DIOCESAN CEMETERY SEMINARY CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

Seminary

$871,980 39%

Parish

$482,757 22%

Catholic Schools

$471,899

21%

Cemetery

$67,217 3%

Diocesan

$73,194 3%

Other

$254,064 12% $2,221,111 100%

Dear Friends at the Catholic Development Foundation: ____ Please contact me (us). I would like to learn more about the Catholic Development Foundation. ____ Please contact me (us) about a personal visit.

The best time to call me is: ______________________ Name: _________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________ City: ___________________________________________ State:______ Zip: __________ Phone: _____________

Mail this form to:

A few years ago, ND legislators passed a bill that allowed a very generous tax credit to those who make a charitable gift to a ND qualified endowment. If you are a North Dakota resident and make a gift of $5,000 or more to a ND qualified endowment, you are eligible for a 40 percent tax credit on your ND taxes. Tax credits are much different than a tax deduction because they reduce your tax liability dollar for dollar. The maximum tax credit allowed is $20,000 for individuals or $40,000 for married couples filing jointly. However, credits may be carried forward up to three years.

The following is an example of how tax credits may benefit you: GIFT AMOUNT

PARISH

TOTAL

North Dakota Tax Credit benefit the Church and you

Catholic Development Foundation Attention: Steve Schons 5201 Bishops Blvd, Suite A Fargo, ND 58104

$5,000

$25,000

$50,000

-$1,200

-$6,000

-$12,000

ND state income tax credit -$2,000

-$10,000

-$20,000

$9,000

$18,000

*Federal tax savings Net “Cost” of Gift

$1,800

*Based on individuals that fall in the 24 percent Federal tax bracket. Please consult your own financial or tax advisor for your unique situation.

Your guide to giving

C

atholic Development Foundation (CDF) offers many ways to give and leave a legacy. CDF accepts gifts of cash, appreciated securities and real estate. All gifts are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. And, you choose the parish, school or organization which will benefit from your gift.

Gifts that start making a difference today

These are gifts that are easy to make and see immediate impact.

• Existing Endowment Fund • Donor Advised Fund • New Endowment Fund

Gifts that give back – Life income gifts

These types of gifts provide income for the donor’s lifetime, any remainder goes to the donor’s charity of choice.

• Charitable Gift Annuity • Charitable Remainder Trust • Charitable Unitrust

Gifts that bear fruits later – Deferred gifts

The benefits an organization receives from these gifts are deferred until a later time, typically after a donor passes away.

• Charitable Bequest • Life Estate For more information, please contact Steve at (701) 356-7926 or visit www.cdfnd.org.

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

29

DIOCESAN FINANCIAL REPORT 2018

Catholic institutions and parishes with funded endowments in the CDF Cemetery Endowments

Location

St. John the Baptist Cemetery Ardoch St. Anthony’s Cemetery Bathgate Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Cemetery Balta St. Mark’s Cemetery Bottineau St. Joseph’s Cemetery Bremen Sacred Heart Cemetery Cando St. Leo’s Cemetery Casselton St. Helen’s Cemetery Concrete St. Mary’s Cemetery Courtenay St. Patrick’s Cemetery Crystal St. Mary’s Cemetery Dazey Dickey Catholic Cemetery Assoc.

Dickey Immaculate Heart of Mary Cemetery Dunseith St. Louis Cemetery Dunseith St. Boniface Cemetery Esmond Holy Cross Cemetery Fargo Sacred Heart of Jesus Cemetery Fried St. Martin’s Cemetery Geneseo St. Cecilia’s Cemetery Perpetual Care Harvey St. Rose of Lima Cemetery Care Hillsboro Sacred Heart of Jesus Cemetery Joliette Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery Care Karlsruhe St. Mary Cemetery Care Knox St. Joseph Cemetery Leroy Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery Care McHenry St. Mary’s Cemetery Medina St. Arnold’s Cemetery Care Milnor Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Cemetery Mt. Carmel St. John’s Cemetery Care New Rockford Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Cemetery Olga St. Bernard’s Cemetery Care Oriska St. Mary’s Cemetery Care Park River Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cemetery Reynolds Little Flower Cemetery Rugby St. Anthony’s and St. Marie’s Cemetery Selz St. Thomas Cemetery St. Thomas St. John’s - Ottofe Cemetery Tolna St. Catherine’s Cemetery Valley City Holy Cross Cemetery Velva St. Luke’s Cemetery Veseleyville St. Boniface Cemetery Walhalla St. Pauline’s Cemetery Windsor St. John the Baptist’s Cemetery Wyndmere

Other non-endowed cemetery funds are not listed here. These other funds are managed by parish cemetery committees through the Catholic Church Deposit & Loan Fund. For further information and to contribute to those funds, please contact your parish cemetery representative or pastor. You may also contact Steve Schons or Scott Hoselton at (701) 356-7930.

St. Thomas Church Sacred Heart Church Sacred Heart Church St. Joseph’s Church St. Edward Church St. Michael the Archangel Church St. Helena’s Church Holy Spirit Church Nativity Church of Fargo St. Paul Newman Center St. Mary’s Cathedral Sts. Anne and Joachim Church St. Mary’s Church Seven Dolors Church St. John’s Church Holy Family Church St. Mary’s Church St. Michael’s Church St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center St. Rose of Lima Church St. James Basilica St. Maurice Church St. Alphonsus Church St. Boniface Church St. Aloysius Church Our Lady of Peace Church St. Arnold Church St. Philip Neri Church Native Americans – Blue Cloud Abbey

St. John’s Church St. Charles Church St. Mary’s Church St. John Nepomucene Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church St. Joachim’s Church St. Therese the Little Flower Church Our Lady of the Scapular Church St. John’s Church St. Michael Church St. Thomas Church St. Jude Church St. Luke’s Church St. John the Evangelist Church Blessed Sacrament Church Holy Cross Church St. Benedict Church St. John the Baptist Church

Buffalo Cando Carrington Devils Lake Drayton Dunseith Ellendale* Fargo Fargo* Fargo Fargo Fargo Forman Fort Totten Grafton Grand Forks Grand Forks Grand Forks* Grand Forks* Hillsboro Jamestown* Kindred Langdon Lidgerwood Lisbon Mayville Milnor Napoleon Native American Parishes New Rockford* Oaks* Park Rapids Pisek Reynolds Rolla Rugby Sheldon St. John St. Michael St. Thomas Thompson Veseleyville Wahpeton* West Fargo West Fargo Wild Rice Wyndmere

Parish Endowments

Location

Other Named Endowments

Church/Location/ Serving

St. William’s Church St. Ann Church St. Benedict’s Church

Argusville Belcourt* Belcourt

Archbishop Aquila Scholarship Deacon David Gates Scholarship Rev. Darin Didier Memorial Fund

Seminarian Education Diaconate Education

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NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

Seminarian Scholarships

DIOCESAN FINANCIAL REPORT 2018 St. Joseph School St. JPII Catholic Schools Diocese of Fargo Youth Fund

Real Presence Radio Fr. George Bolte Memorial St. Michael’s School Holy Family School St. James Catholic High School Fund

education Lidgerwood K of C – Dexter Cemetery Catholic Charities North Dakota Little Flower Elementary School Fr. John Bacevicius Memorial Fund

Thomas Gustafson Religious Education

Marriage Tribunal Endowment

Devils Lake* Fargo* Fargo* Diocese of Fargo

Fargo/Grand Forks Holy Trinity - Fingal Grand Forks* Grand Forks* Benefits three Grand Forks parishes for

Young Disciples

Fargo

St. John’s School

Wahpeton

Seminarian Clergy Endowments

Diocese of Fargo*

Donor Advised Funds

Serving/Supporting

Our Daily Bread

The Hoffart Family

James P. Wold

Various Catholic Charitable works St. JPII Catholic Schools Charitable Causes

*These locations have multiple named endowments. Visit www.cdfnd.org Lidgerwood or call (701) 356-7926 for more information. For the complete list of Statewide endowments, go to cdfnd.org.

Rugby* St. Boniface Cemetery - Kintyre During Fiscal Year 2017-18, the Catholic St. Charles Borromeo - Development Foundation paid out $215,580 in Oakes annuity payments to faith-filled individuals who Supports people seeking annulments have funded annuities with the Foundation.

New Earth deadlines for articles and ads in 2019 Issue Month

Copy/Photo Deadline

January 2019 February 2019 March 2019 April 2019 May 2019 June 2019 July/August 2019 September 2019 October 2019 November 2019 December 2019 January 2020

Dec. 12, 2018 Jan. 17 Feb. 13 Mar. 20 Apr. 17 May 29 July 3 Aug. 21 Sept. 19 Oct. 16 Nov. 20 Dec. 11, 201

T

he diocesan publication, New Earth, aims to provide informational, educational, and inspirational stories and photos about the people and places of the Diocese of Fargo.

Jan. 10-11, 2019February You are2017 invited to submit articles, photographs, and story ideas for consideration and inclusion in an upcoming issue.

Feb. 7-8 The following are the 2019 printing deadlines for New Earth.

Mar. 7-8 Please share this schedule with anyone who may want to Apr. 11-12 publicize events or share a great story through New Earth and/ May 9-10 or the diocesan website.

Please submit your items on the “Submission deadline” date June 13-14 that corresponds with the issue you wish to see your item appear via: July 25-26 Expected Arrival

Sept. 12-13 Oct. 10-11 Nov. 7-8 Dec. 12-13 Jan. 9-10, 2020

• Email: news@fargodiocese.org

• Mail: New Earth, Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104 • Phone: (701) 356-7900

All submitted articles must meet approval before being published. Additionally, because of limited space in New Earth, no item is guaranteed with the exception of paid advertising.

“Foolish is he who follows the pleasures of this world, because these are always fleeting and bring much pain. The only true pleasure is that which comes to us through faith.”

– Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

31

Bishop Coyne, Cardinal DiNardo, and Bishop Doherty at the USCCB press conference in Baltimore, Md., Nov. 12.

(Christine Rousselle | CNA)

Bishop Folda responds to recent USCCB meeting

T

he United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) General Assembly, held in Baltimore Nov. 12–14, was convened in part to address the concerns and genuine anger of Catholics in the U.S. over recently reported incidences of past sexual abuse by clergy, primarily reports coming from Pennsylvania. The bishops had intended to take action at their November meeting, voting on two policies they hoped would address the Church’s sexual abuse crisis: a code of conduct for bishops, and the creation of a lay-led panel to investigate claims of misconduct or negligence by bishops.

But, as the meeting began, Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, president of the USCCB, announced that the Holy See had insisted that the bishops not vote on their own proposals, and instead wait until after a February meeting at the Vatican of the heads of bishops’ conferences from around the world. The announcement seemed to surprise almost everyone in the room, including Bishop Folda, along with Catholic faithful across the United States.

New Earth sat down with Bishop Folda to discuss what happened in Baltimore, what didn’t happen, and how the lay faithful can have confidence as the Church moves forward to address the sexual abuse scandal in 2019.

NEW EARTH: There was tremendous build-up to the USCCB General Assembly meeting last month. What were U.S. bishops proposing, and why did the Holy See object to a vote?

that the issue is being taken seriously here and in Rome?

BISHOP FOLDA: I have no doubt that these issues are taken very seriously both here and in Rome. The U.S. bishops are united in our determination to act on these problems, and we see this as a delay, but not the final word. I know the Holy See is also serious about these issues. Pope Francis recently removed a cardinal and several bishops from office due to allegations of abuse, and I expect he will take further actions as well.

NEW EARTH: Some say the lack of action just deepens their distrust in the Church on the issue of transparency. Could you address those concerns?

BISHOP FOLDA: I know some people were disappointed that no votes were taken on these messages at our recent meeting, but as I said, this delay is not the final word. We made public the proposals before us, and already consulted widely with lay advisors and experts on these measures. There may be some modifications, but there is no turning back from the direction we are headed to get this done.

NEW EARTH: Do you have any personal thoughts on what transpired in Baltimore?

BISHOP FOLDA: I was frustrated that our hands were tied and wish we could have acted on the proposals before us. From what I could tell, nearly all the bishops felt the same way. But, I also understand the value of enacting measures that will be consistent with the universal Church. I have no doubts that we will move forward with the measures that are being developed, and I believe Pope Francis will support these actions.

BISHOP FOLDA: The proposals before the bishops included a code of conduct for bishops, a third party system for reporting allegations of misconduct by bishops, an independent panel led by laity to investigate such allegations, and a protocol for dealing with allegations against retired bishops. At the very beginning of the bishops’ meeting, we were informed that the NEW EARTH: Where do we go from here? What message do Vatican asked us to delay a vote on the proposed measures. Pope you want to convey to the faithful in our diocese?

Francis has called a meeting of the presidents of every national bishops conference from around the world to be held in February, BISHOP FOLDA: There is no place for abuse in the Church, and these issues will be addressed at that time. I believe the especially by clergy. The mass media and social media often Congregation for Bishops at the Vatican asked us to delay a vote give the impression that nothing has been done to remove such on these proposals so that our decisions might be taken in view abuse, but this is not the case at all. We still have work to do, of the actions of the upcoming conference with Pope Francis. but we’re in better shape than before. I intend to keep working with the lay faithful and clergy of our diocese to assist victims NEW EARTH: Do you feel, in light of what happened in Baltimore, of abuse, and to deal properly with offenders.

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NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

U.S. AND WORLD NEWS

EWTN wins lawsuit over HHS contraception mandate

By Ed Condon | Catholic News Agency

A

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th circuit issued an order Nov. 29, vacating a 2014 District Court decision against the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN) in its lawsuit against the so-called contraceptive mandate issued by the Department of Health and Human Services. Under the terms of the settlement, EWTN will not be required to provide contraception, sterilization, or abortifacients through its employee health care plan.

“This moment has been a long time coming,” said EWTN Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Michael P. Warsaw.

“Almost seven years and two presidential administrations later, the government and the courts have now realized what EWTN has been saying all along, that the HHS mandate was an unconstitutional attempt to coerce us into violating our strongly held beliefs. This is the right outcome for EWTN and for all those who value religious liberty in America.”

The network originally filed suit in February 2012 in response to the mandate, which was introduced by the Obama administration following the passage of the Affordable Care Act.

Under the provisions of the act, employer-provided health insurance plans are required to cover certain “preventative services.”

These were defined by guidance issued by the Department of Health and Human Services to include all contraception methods approved by the Food and Drug Administration, including abortifacient birth control pills, IUDs, and sterilization procedures.

Attorneys for EWTN and the Department of Justice negotiated terms of a settlement under which the government agreed not to enforce the contraceptive mandate against the network, and that EWTN would ask the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals to vacate the District Court’s decision.

“I am confident this agreement will protect EWTN from such regulations, both now and in the future,” Warsaw told CNA. On Nov. 7, the Trump administration released two updated rules concerning conscience protections for organizations and individuals in relation to the HHS contraception mandate.

Under the new rules, organizations and individuals objecting to the controversial mandate’s provisions on either religious or moral grounds will be exempt.

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NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

Sidewalk Stories

By Roxane B. Salonen

Deep abortion regret drew her to sidewalk

T

he signs were hastily made with flimsy, white 8x10-inch paper and a dark green marker. By the time I saw them, the wind and cold had caused them to become a bit crumpled.

I’m not even sure many of those coming in for their abortion appointment that day saw the words she’d written, but we sidewalk prayer advocates did, and it mattered to us.

“I have abortion PTSD. Save your child and yourself,” the first one read. And the next: “I regret my abortion every day!

Please don’t make the same mistake I did.”

In talking to her later, I learned she’d come on her own, from a town about an hour away. Her abortion had happened a year ago, at this very facility.

She acknowledged the signs were rudimentary, but it had taken a lot just to find the courage to get there, she said. She’d grabbed what materials she could find and scratched out the words her heart had been yearning to tell the other women.

She wanted so much to warn them, she said. “I just wish someone would’ve stopped me.”

I asked her whether there had been other people on the sidewalk the day she’d come in, and she said yes. “People like us, praying and handing out literature?” I asked. “Or escorts for the facility?”

“Yes, both,” she said. “I tried to talk with one of you but then the escort said, ‘Don’t listen to them,’ and pulled me away.

Maybe if I’d been able to hear you, it would have been enough to wake me up.”

I told her how valuable her presence was, and how important it was for her to share her story. I asked her if she’d sought healing. She said she’d been doing some research online. She was aware of what was available and was hoping to pursue it more soon.

More urgently, she indicated, was the need to be there to warn those heading into the facility that it would not help; it would make things worse.

She described what other post-abortive women have shared — how people around you make it seem like it’s the only solution,

insisting you do it quickly and move on. “But I immediately realized what I had done, and it was horrible.”

“When I was in there, they kept telling me how relieved I’d feel,” she continued, “but that never happened.”

A friend brought her in that day, she added; someone she’s realized now who, rather than helping her, helped lead her to kill her own child. “I really can’t even look at that person now.

I avoid them.”

What really bothers her, she said, is that no one will really talk about the truth of it. “No one wants to hear from us what really happens.” Pre-abortion, the world rails, “My body my choice,” but post-abortion? Silence. Avoidance. Denial.

Censorship. Oppression.

Her testimony and witness in the bravery it took to drive to Fargo and stand there as if naked in all her vulnerability, not knowing what she’d encounter, and out of sheer love for the child she’ll never hold, is exactly why I am committed to sidewalk advocacy.

Hearing the Post-Abortive Ladies (PALS) group years ago and again recently, awakened me to the sheer devastation of abortion. Their voices have cut through the lies and brought the very hard truth to light, prompting me to the sidewalk to do my small part.

Silencing post-abortive women will only keep the hidden secret that festers in their souls oozing. We’ve got to find ways to encourage their voices to break free.

Truth — like the love of a mother for her child, even one who died wrongly — is beautiful. It speaks to us on the gut level. It helps us see through God’s eyes, not the Father of Lies.

As one post-abortive friend recently shared, “Before the abortion, the Evil One whispered, ‘It’s harmless.’ After the abortion, he hissed, ‘It’s hopeless.’”

That too is a lie, and so we must help unbind those enslaved by this “choice” in this horrid culture of death, so that life and love in all its glory might be unleashed.

“Dear Lord, help us be a guiding light on the sidewalk, to assist these women and console your suffering heart, so that love might reign more and more in our world. Amen.”

Roxane B. Salonen, a wife and mother of five, is a local writer, and a speaker and radio host for Real Presence Radio. Roxane writes for The Forum newspaper and for CatholicMom.com. Reach her at roxanebsalonen@gmail.com.

NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

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NEW

EARTH

Catholic Diocese of Fargo 5201 Bishops Blvd, Ste. A Fargo, ND 58104

Do you know where we are?

The answer will be revealed in the January New Earth.

Where in the diocese are we?

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NEW EARTH DECEMBER 2018

Last month’s photo is from St. Charles Church in Oakes.