July/August New Earth 2013

Bishop Folda to speak at Faith through the Ages events

New Earth

— Page 4

“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth” — Rev. 21:1

CATHOLIC DIOCESE

OF

FARGO

July-August 2013 Vol. 34

No. 7

www.FargoDiocese.org

‘Lumen Fidei’: Pontiff’s first encyclical

Pope Francis writes of faith as the light of human life

Mary’s army of youth

Catholic News Service

P

ope Francis’ first encyclical, “Lumen Fidei” (“The Light of Faith”), is a celebration of Christian faith as the guiding light of a “successful and fruitful life,” inspiring social action as well as devotion to God, and illuminating “every aspect of human existence,” including philosophy and the natural sciences.

The document completes a papal trilogy on the three “theological virtues,” following Pope Benedict XVI’s encyclicals “Deus Caritas Est” (2005) on charity and “Spe Salvi” (2007) on hope. Publication of the encyclical was one of the most awaited events of the Year of Faith which began in October 2012.

Pope Benedict “had almost completed a first draft of an encyclical on faith” before his retirement in February 2013, Pope Francis writes, adding that “I have taken up his fine work and added a few contributions of my own.”

Commentators will likely differ in attributing specific passages, but the document clearly recalls the writings of Pope Benedict in its extensive treatment of the dialogue between faith and reason and its many citations of St. Augustine, not to mention references to Friedrich Nietzsche and Fyodor Dostoyevsky.

On the other hand, warnings of the dangers of idolatry, Gnosticism and Please turn to FIRST on page 9

Submitted photo

53 campers and 12 support staff for Militia Immaculata camp took a pilgrimage to Grasshopper Chapel in Cold Spring, Minn., as part of the camp’s activities.

By Nathanial Wiegrefe

I

n 1904, a 10-year-old Raymund Kolbe received a vision of the Virgin Mary offering him two crowns: a white one for purity and a red one for martyrdom. Choosing both, he went on to become a Franciscan friar and priest, wherein he took the name Maximilian, later sacrificing himself in the Nazi concentration camp of Auschwitz so that a fellow prisoner could live.

While in seminary in Rome in the year 1917, Maximilian witnessed an anniversary celebration by the Freemasons which included pamphlets containing protests against the Pope.

He organized the Militia Immaculata — or the “Army of Mary” — to combat these attacks against the Catholic Church.

Please turn to MI CAMPERS on page 6

2 n JULY-AUGUST 2013

NEWEARTH

A new shepherd meets his flock

A

s I write this column for New touched by the presence of so many Earth, it is exactly one month priests and people at these regional celsince my ordination as Bishop of ebrations. the Diocese of Fargo, and what a month In a certain sense, these occasions alit has been! I am still overwhelmed by lowed me to extend the celebration of memories of the beauty and solemnity my ordination to many more people of of the ordination liturgies at Sts. Anne our diocese, and I appreciate the oppor& Joachim Church and at the Cathedral tunity to meet so many of you. I look of St. Mary. forward to visiting more of our parishes Many people from around the diocese in the coming months, and in this way and throughout the country have comI can truly get to know the Diocese of mented on this in phone calls, e-mails Fargo. and good old-fashioned One of my priorities letters. Thanks once during this first year again to all who played will also be to meet and a part in the planning get to know our priests, and execution of these who are my closest and wonderful and historic dearest collaborators in events for our diocese. service to God’s people.

So, what is life like for I’ve had the occasion to a new bishop? visit with a number of I can’t speak for every them personally and new bishop, but I can socially, and I am altell you that this bishop ready aware of the frahas been busy, and I ternal bond that joins suspect that will conour priests together in tinue! These first weeks faith. of my service to the Even after these few Diocese of Fargo have weeks, I can discern the Bishop John Folda been marvelous, and I dedication and comwould like to share with mitment of these good all of you a few of the many wonderful men to the people under their spiritual experiences I’ve had. care, and I have also seen the love that our people have for their priests. Please ne of the highlights has been the keep your priests in your prayers, and regional Masses that were celeask our Lord to strengthen them for the brated around the diocese to allow me pastoral work he has entrusted to them. to visit a few of our parishes and meet Certainly our deacons also provide an as many of you as possible. essential service to our diocese. In fact, the word deacon means “servant,” and In the week following my ordination, I am impressed by the dedication of I travelled to Jamestown, Devils Lake these selfless men who joyfully serve and Grand Forks for a dinner with my our parishes and other apostolates. brother priests, a parish Mass and a reI have also received a hearty welcome ception afterwards. These were beautiful from our religious sisters. and joyful events, and I was very

Bishop’s Message

O

“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth.”

Revelation 21:1

NewEarth (ISSN # 10676406)

SERVING CATHOLIC PARISHES AS THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF FARGO, N.D. Member of the Catholic Press Association Bishop John T. Folda Bishop of Fargo Publisher

July 29-30

Personal subscription rate for 11 issues of New Earth per year: $9.

The upcoming weeks will take me to further encounters with our sisters in Hankinson and Wahpeton, and I am

University of Mary, Priests and Deacons Summerfest, Bismarck

July 30

7 p.m.

Year of Faith presentation, St. Catherine’s Catholic Church, Valley City

July 31

8 a.m.

Mass at Visitation Chapel, Fargo

Aug. 1

5:30 p.m.

125th Anniversary Mass and Celebration at St. Alphonsus Church, Langdon

Aug. 5

Putt for a Purpose Bishop’s Charity Golf Classic, Rose Creek, Fargo

Aug. 5-8

Knights of Columbus National Convention, San Antonio, Texas

Aug. 9-10

Seminarian Gathering, St. Philip Neri Church, Napoleon

Aug. 11

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to New Earth, 5201 Bishops Boulevard, Suite A, Fargo ND 58104-7605. (701) 356-7900.

I was invited to celebrate the silver jubilee of one of our sisters in Maryvale at Valley City, and also joined a group of sisters for Mass and lunch this past week here in Fargo. The joy and enthusiasm of these consecrated religious is a great gift to the Church and to our diocese, and we are very blessed by their prayerful witness and apostolic zeal.

Bishop Folda’s Calendar

Tanya Watterud Interim Editor news@fargodiocese.org Published monthly by The Catholic Spirit Publishing Company, a non-profit Minnesota corporation, 244 Dayton Ave., St. Paul, MN 55102. (651) 291-4444. Periodicals postage paid at St. Paul, MN and additional post offices.

Photo by Charlie Bremseth

Bishop Folda greets people after the June 29 Mass at the Cathedral of St. Mary, Fargo. During the Mass, he formally recognized the new state officers of the Knights of Columbus.

Aug. 14

10:30 a.m.

Mass and Centennial Celebration with Franciscan Sisters of Dillingen, Hankinson

5 p.m.

Mass at Carmel of Mary Monastery, Wahpeton

7 p.m.

Year of Faith presentation, St. Michael’s Church, Grand Forks

Aug. 15

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Holy Day, Pastoral Center closed

Aug. 29-31

Provincial Bishop’s Meeting, St. Paul

Sept. 2

Labor Day, Pastoral Center closed

Sept. 8-20

Vatican’s Congregation for Bishop’s Conference for New Bishops, Rome

anxious to assure them of my gratitude for their presence in the Diocese of Fargo.

Y

ou may be aware that I worked for the past 14 years as a seminary rector, so the seminarians of our diocese have a very special place in my heart. I have already met many of them, and I am filled with hope as I see their openhearted enthusiasm and their willingness to follow where our Lord is leading.

In two weeks, I will join our seminarians for their annual summer gathering in Napoleon, and I look forward to praying and recreating with them. I imagine they will also be somewhat curious about this new bishop who someday might ordain them, so I will try to be ready for their questions!

Other events have included radio interviews with local media, the installation of new officers for the North Dakota Knights of Columbus, a cookout with our Young Disciples teams, attending my first Fargo RedHawks game and helping to serve the weekly Thursday community dinner at one of our local parishes in West Fargo.

Certainly another highlight was my attendance at the Tekakwitha Conference in Bismarck sponsored by the Native American parishes of our two dioceses in North Dakota.

These and many other activities, along with the inevitable office work, have filled my days, but I have also been getting to know the many good and faithful people who help to carry out the great work of the Church in the Diocese of Fargo, and I am edified by their hard work and quiet dedication.

There is no question that the Diocese of Fargo has been greatly blessed, but it has needs as well, so I am trying to learn as much as I can in order to address these needs in a prudent and prayerful way.

I am remembering all of you in my daily prayers and Masses, placing you in the loving hands of our Divine Savior and asking God to assist us as we make our way together through the joys and sorrows of this life toward the eternal joys of heaven.

JULY-AUGUST 2013 n 3

NEWEARTH

Much has happened; much more lies ahead Bishop Folda looks back on a memorable month and forward, too, especially to getting to know the diocese

By Tanya Watterud

Friday, July 19, marked the onemonth anniversary of the ordination and installation of Bishop John Folda as the eighth Bishop of Fargo.

Much has happened in the past month, and much more lies ahead for our new bishop. *

*

*

Settling in “From the time that I first arrived I felt very much at home, even more so now,” Bishop Folda said. He has already visited some parishes, including parishes in Jamestown, Grand Forks and Devils Lake, where he celebrated regional Masses the week following his ordination. He said people have been “very welcoming, very warm, very friendly, very helpful.”

In fact, he was in the checkout area of a grocery store one Saturday morning and a woman recognized and greeted him, saying, “Oh, I have to give you a hug. We’re so happy you’re here.” *

*

*

Reflecting on the liturgies Bishop Folda said he has a tremendous appreciation for all of the people who were involved with the June 18 Solemn Vespers and the June 19 Mass of ordination and installation, as well as the receptions and other events associated with his ordination. “The whole time I felt very supported by the prayers and good wishes,” he said.

He was touched by the homilies of Archbishop Samuel Aquila of Denver at the Solemn Vespers and Archbishop John Nienstedt of St. Paul and Minneapolis at the ordination Mass. “I was very moved by the encouragement and support that they offered,” he said.

He was also struck by the joy of both occasions. “I think everyone was really united in a spirit of joy . . . It related to me personally, but also had more to do with their inner joy in the faith,” he said.

As a pianist himself, “I was really impressed and lifted by the beauty of the music and the preparation that went into the liturgies,” he said. “The music was just remarkable. It helped everybody . . . to prayerfully enter into the celebration.” *

*

*

Cathedral Masses Bishop Folda celebrated the 10 a.m.

Mass at the Cathedral of St. Mary in Fargo June 23, the Sunday following his ordination. In 1989, his first assignment as a newly ordained priest was as a parochial vicar at Cathedral of the Risen Christ in Lincoln, Neb. Standing at the altar of the cathedral in Fargo for the first time as a bishop was “an interesting mix of memories and emotions,” Bishop Folda said. He realized, as he looked from the altar to the faithful gathered in the pews, how the time between his first cathedral Mass as a newly ordained priest and his first

Photos by Dave Arntson, Milestones Photography

Bishop John Folda prays the Eucharistic prayer during his Mass of ordination and installation June 19 at the Cathedral of St. Mary, Fargo.

Cathedral Mass as a bishop seemed to have passed “in a blink of an eye”.

He recalled sitting in the cathedra, the chair of the bishop, for the first time.

“It was pretty overwhelming to take my place in the cathedra and to have that sink in” that he was no longer a pastor of a parish but pastor of the entire diocese. *

*

*

A year of firsts “Just about everywhere I go will be my first visit, so I’m looking forward to the firsts,” Bishop Folda said of what lies ahead for him in the next several months. His plans include “getting around to as many parishes as possible, meeting the people of the diocese, letting them get to know me a little bit and beginning this relationship that I have with the faithful.”

After his ordination Mass, Bishop Folda greeted people on the lawn of the bishop’s residence.

*

*

*

But first, Rome In September, Bishop Folda will attend a conference for new bishops in Rome.

It is “an opportunity for all the new bishops from the past year to gather together to receive reflection and orientation from some of the bishops and cardinals of the church who are experienced and have the wisdom of their own work as bishops” to share.

They will discuss such things as the role and work of a bishop, the place of the bishop in the universal church, and the relationship of a bishop with the people of the diocese. They will also visit the Tomb of St. Peter and have an audience with Pope Francis.

As a young priest, Bishop Folda did post-graduate studies in Rome for two years, so this will not be his first trip to Rome; however, he said it will be “nice to go back to see Rome through the eyes of a bishop this time.”

Archbishop Samuel Aquila of Denver, who served as the seventh bishop of Fargo, was a coconsecrator for the ordination of Bishop Folda.

4 n JULY-AUGUST 2013

NEWEARTH

Faith through the Ages events in July, August to include Bishop Folda as speaker The “Faith through the Ages” series continues this July and August with Bishop John T. Folda leading the second leg of the journey to understand the gift of faith as it unfolds over the history of Christianity.

The first leg focused on sacred Scripture and the early Fathers of the Church, who saw faith as conviction, content, cooperation and fidelity.

The second part of this three-part series examines faith from the Middle Ages through the Reformation. During this time period, the world was undergoing barbarian invasions, the bubonic plague, the Crusades, the rise of Islam, and crises within the church: schisms, the Inquisition, and corruption.

Despite the darkness of those days, a light shone brightly to bring hope to the despairing people. This time in church history saw the rise of monasticism, the great movements of the scholastics and mendicants orders and such personalities as St. Benedict, St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Catherine of Sienna and Martin Luther.

All are invited to attend as Bishop Folda highlights the power of faith in those darkest of days. His presentation will be given Tuesday, July 30, at St. Catherine’s Church in Valley City

Faith through the Ages Bishop Folda’s presentations July 30: 7 p.m., St. Catherine’s, Valley City Aug. 14: 7 p.m., St. Michael’s, Grand Forks

and again Wednesday, Aug. 14, at St. Michael’s Church in Grand Forks. Presentations begin at 7 p.m. and will be followed by refreshments and an opportunity to meet and greet the bishop and other brothers and sisters in Christ.

Msgr. James Shea, president of the University of Mary, will present the third part of this series, “Faith from the Reformation to Contemporary Times” this fall.

“Faith through the Ages” is a project of thanksgiving and giving back from the graduates of the diocese’s Education for Parish Service (EPS) program. Talks are open to everyone. Events are free thanks to the generosity of the underwriters: Blessed Sacrament Church in West Fargo and Knights of Columbus councils of St Joseph’s in Devils Lake, St. James in Jamestown, and St. Anthony of Padua in Fargo. Visit www.fargodiocese.org/faiththroughages for more information.

Willey to speak on the Catechism at four parishes in September as part of the Year of Faith

By Katie Dubas

Petroc Willey will be visiting the Fargo Diocese in September. He is no stranger to North Dakota. You may have attended one of his previous speaking engagements over the years.

In 2005 he came to Devils Lake as the keynote presentator on the “Catechism of the Catholic Church.” In 2007 he was in Grand Forks to speak on the “Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.”

Making friends with the members of the Bethlehem Community, he returned to North Dakota with his family for a sabbatical in 2009. They lived in residence with the Bethlehem Community in Bathgate, and Willey spent many hours researching and writing for his doctorate. He shared his work in a catechetical symposium in Bathgate in June of 2009.

In 2010, I had the privilege to visit the Maryvale Higher Institute of Religious Sciences where Willey works, located in Birmingham, England. The collaborative learning method they use is a blend of distance-learning with faceto-face, personal interaction and is ideal for adults with busy lives who can only commit a few hours a week to study.

The purpose of my visit was to find out firsthand what they had to offer for formation of every-day catechists. If the Institute was anything like Willey, then we needed to pursue it. And we did.

Once Bishop Samuel Aquila granted approval, we began a formal partnership with the Maryvale Institute in July of 2010 and held our first catechist training course 18 months later in January 2012.

The particular course that we chose to offer first is a two-year Catechist Certificate Course and 21 students are expected to graduate in January 2014.

Plans are in the works to repeat the course and to offer a new one-year course with specialty areas of ministry including family, youth, parish, and ministry to the sick. There is a course for everyone.

Since his last visit to North Dakota, Willey has been busy. He has been appointed the acting director of Maryvale Higher Institute of Religious Sciences, as well as Consultor to the Pontifical Council for the New Evangelization for the Transmission of the Christian Faith.

As consultor, he traveled to Rome in October to participate in the Synod on the New Evangelization.

It is an honor to have Willey speak this September in four of our parishes on a topic that is near to his heart, the Catechism of the Catholic Church. He will speak Sept. 10 at St. Mary’s in Grand Forks, Sept. 11 at St. Therese the Little Flower in Rugby, Sept. 12 at St. Charles Borromeo in Oakes and Sept. 15 at Sts. Anne & Joachim in Fargo. Please see the ad on page 6 for the times and additional information.

Willey has poured over the pages of the Catechism, studying and praying with the texts at such length that when you hear him share you will never look at the Catechism the same again.

Please come and take full advantage of this offering during the Year of Faith to unlock one of the best gifts we have to light up the path of faith. To register, go to www.fargodiocese.org/CCC.

Submitted photo

Sister Christina Neumann consecrated herself to Christ forever before her provincial superior, Sister Ann Marie Friederichs, during a Mass celebrated by Bishop Lee Piché, Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Special witnesses for the ceremony were Sister Susan Marie Loeffen, vicar-provincial, and Sister Leonida Schmidt, junior directress.

Sister Christina Neumann makes her final vows as a Franciscan Sister Christina Neumann made her perpetual profession of the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience July 2 during a Mass celebrated by Bishop Lee A. Piché of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, a friend and former pastor of the Neumann family.

The Mass, attended by the sisters, and family and friends of Sister Christina, took place in the Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel at St. Francis Convent, Hankinson.

Sister Christina joined the Dillingen Franciscans in 2005 after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in communications from the College of St. Catherine, St. Paul, Minn. She is the eldest of four children of Rick and Kathy Neumann, West St. Paul, Minn.

Since May 2009, Sister Christina has served at St. Anne’s Guest Home in

Grand Forks. There she assists the other sisters, staff and residents in many ways, especially with her computer skills. Sister Christina also reaches out to youth at St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center at the University of North Dakota and to the Third Order Franciscan community of the area.

Concelebrating the Mass were Father Armand Brooks, chaplain of St. Francis Convent, Father Lenny Andrie, parochial vicar of St. Joseph’s Parish, West St. Paul, and priests from the Diocese of Fargo: Msgr. Wendelyn Vetter, Msgr. Joseph Huebsch, Father Gerard Braun, Father Matthew Kraemer, Father Daniel Mrnarevic, Father Bernard Pfau and Father Ed Sherman.

Deacon of the Mass was Deacon Steve Maier, also from the Archdiocese.

Events around the diocese For more events throughout the diocese, visit www.fargodiocese.org/events.

July 28 (Sunday): Memorial service for residents who have passed away during the months of April, May and June of 2013, 2:30 p.m., Ave Maria Village, Jamestown.

July 28 (Sunday): Love & Life Celebration, Christopher Owens will present on “Parenthood: Cooperators with the Love of God,” 5 p.m., St. Michael’s, Grand Forks.

July 30 (Tuesday): Faith through the Ages, 7 p.m., St. Catherine’s, Valley City.

Visit www.fargodiocese.org/faiththrough ages. See page 4.

Aug. 11 (Sunday): Annual pilgrimage to Shrine of Our Lady of the Prairies at Carmel of Mary Monastery, Wahpeton.

See page 16.

Aug. 14 (Wednesday): Faith through the Ages, 7 p.m., St. Michael’s, Grand Forks. Visit www.fargodiocese.org/faith throughages. See page 4.

Aug. 17 (Saturday): Mass marking the 10th anniversary of St. Gianna’s Maternity Home, 10:30 a.m., St. Stanislaus, Warsaw.

Visit www.saintgianna home.org. See page 5.

Sept 3. (Tuesday): Serra Club dinner, an opportunity to visit and pray with others who support vocations in the area, 6 p.m., St. Anthony of Padua, Fargo.

Sept. 9 (Monday): Banquet for 10th Anniversary of St. Gianna’s Maternity Home, Alerus Convention Center, Grand Forks. Visit www.saintgiannahome.org. See page 5.

Sept. 12-14 (Thursday-Saturday): Cursillo de Cursillo, 6 p.m., Sisters of St. Francis Retreat Center, Hankinson. See page 17.

Sept. 23-30 (Monday-Monday): Real Presence Radio offers eight-day motorcoach pilgrimage to EWTN. See page 16.

Sept. 25-Nov. 3 (Wednesday-Sunday): The 40 Days for Life national campaign begins. Visit www.40daysforlifend.com.

See page 17.

To submit events for New Earth and the diocesan website, mail them to New Earth, 5201 Bishops Blvd. S., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104-7605 or email news@fargo diocese.org. The deadline for the September New Earth is Aug. 28.

JULY-AUGUST 2013 n 5

NEWEARTH

Saint Gianna Maternity Home

Gloria Purvis to speak at 10th anniversary banquet

By Tanya Watterud

The keynote speaker for the Saint Gianna Maternity Home 10th anniversary banquet said she had an experience at Mass one day where it “became clear to me that my being personally pro-life but having no actions was not pleasing to the Lord.” That experience put a fire in her heart to bring the truth of the gift of life to others.

She will share her story at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks Monday, Sept.

9. The fundraiser banquet begins with a social hour at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m.

To register for a table of 10 or as an individual guest, call Joan Schanilec, Saint Purvis Gianna Maternity Home board member, at (701) 360-2499 or register online at www.saintgiannahome.org.

Reserving a seat at the banquet is free; however, an opportunity to support this pro-life apostolate will be extended during the banquet. Sponsors are also being sought to underwrite the cost of the evening.

Purvis is a board member for the Northwest Pregnancy Center and Maternity Home in Washington, D.C., an advisory board member on the Maryland Catholic Conference’s Respect for Life Department, serves on the National Black Catholic Congress’ Leadership Commission on Social Justice and is the chairperson for Black Catholics United for Life.

Sanitized language Abortion is “such a sanitary word,” Purvis said, but when you read medical literature about how to perform an abortion it “lifts a veil from in front of your eyes.”

The word “pro-choice” also seems like a sanitary thing. When people tell her they are pro-choice, Purvis says she is, too. However, the key to that choice is to determine its “object”. If the object is “to take the life of an innocent unborn child”, then the choice is easy — the answer is “no.”

She asks them, “If you are pro-choice, are you also pro-slavery? Pro-pornography? To be pro-choice doesn’t tell me anything about the object you are choosing.”

People will use rape or incest as a reason to justify abortion. “Is the child guilty?” she asks. “Abortion is not a cure for rape . . . We want to grab onto that loophole as a way to not deal with the monstrosity.” She asks people, “Do we really believe that all our ancestors were born out of consensual sex?”

When conversing about abortion, you “must always give the message of

Maternity home to celebrate anniversary with Mass and more On Saturday, Aug. 17, an opening Mass and anniversary celebration will be held in Warsaw to mark the 10th year since the founding of Saint Gianna’s Maternity Home, which serves pregnant women and their children.

Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. at St. Stanislaus Church with lunch to follow. At 1 p.m., the Polish National

Alliance dancers will perform wearing their authentic ethnic costumes. There will be a one-hour program at 2 p.m., followed by tours of the maternity home.

During the day, there will be “Jump for Joy” inflatables and other activities for children.

For more information, visit www.saintgiannahome.org.

Pro-life film available for showings Saint Gianna’s Maternity Home has purchased a license for the viewing of Crescendo, a short film by the producers of Bella that has been globally heralded and has won over 11 international awards.

One showing is scheduled for Oct. 27 in Crookston. Parishes and groups are encouraged to schedule showings in their communities by calling Saint Gianna’s at (701) 248-3077.

mercy,” Purvis said. “Not always is the woman really consenting to it.”

Women need support As she has prayed outside of abortion facilities, she has witnessed many times the pressure on women by their boyfriends, parents, or others toward abortion. Often, it is the medical community itself making that push. There is “intense pressure to abort if you don’t have a perfect child or if you’re not in the perfect situation,” she said.

That is why maternity homes, like Saint Gianna’s and Northwest Pregnancy Center and Maternity Home, are so important, she said. The homes support women as they progress through their pregnancies, help them make lifeaffirming decisions about parenting or adoption, assist them in continuing their education, work with them on personal budgets, and counsel them to make positive lifestyle changes.

Sharing the truth of the sanctity of life through words and actions is not easy, Purvis said. It is “very, very tough work emotionally, physically, spiritually,” she said. “We must remind each other the reason we do this is love of Christ, love of neighbor.”

“We know the victory is the Lord’s,” she added “and we’re marching for the long term toward salvation.”

“Many mothers who arrive on the doorstep come having experienced fear, rejection, loneliness, ridicule and want. It is the purpose of our apostolate to bring these mothers the love of Christ and the joy of experiencing that love.

— from a book about Saint Gianna Maternity Home

”

DVDs of Bishop Folda’s ordination Mass now available DVD copies of the broadcast of Bishop John Folda’s Mass of ordination and installation, including the pre-ordination commentary with Msgr.

James Shea, president of the University of Mary, are now available. The DVDs, which have been professionally duplicated and packaged, will be wonderful keepsakes.

The cost per DVD is $10, and checks should be m a d e payable to “Diocese of Fargo.” Please indicate “Ordination DVD” in the memo line.

DVDs can be purchased in person at the diocesan Pastoral Center at the following address, online at www. fargodiocese.org/dvdorder, or through the mail at: DVD Order, Diocese of

Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd. S., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104-7605. The online order form accommodates the use of a credit card for the purchase.

As well as being an historic record of the ordination of the eighth bishop of the Diocese of Fargo, the DVD will also be an educational tool for parish y o u t h and adult education programs.

Portions of it can be shown during classes as vocations, apostolic succession, the parts of the Mass, and other aspects of the Catholic faith are discussed.

For more information, visit the website address provided earlier or contact Katie Wise at (701) 356-7900.

6 ■ JULY-AUGUST 2013

NEWEARTH

MI campers focus on sacraments and their spiritual lives Continued from page 1 The Militia Immaculata expanded rapidly to include a daily newspaper, a magazine with over a million subscribers, a radio station and two mission houses in Poland and Japan. Through these means, Maximilian Kolbe and the “MI” focused their evangelization on sinners — especially Freemasons — with the intent of bringing people closer to Jesus’ Sacred Heart through the Immaculate Heart of his mother, Mary.

The MI organization has spread worldwide, covering 46 countries across five continents. As part of the evangelization, MI Youth Camps are held annually in many parts of the world to instruct teens and young adults in the Catholic faith through the spirituality of St. Maximilian Kolbe.

Active in the diocese For more than two decades now the

Diocese of Fargo has hosted an annual week-long camp for middle- and highschool students. Probably started by a group of mothers, it has evolved over the years into a diocese-wide youth event, attracting youth from neighboring dioceses as well.

Having moved from its previous home at what was formerly Cardinal Muench Seminary in 2010, the Fargo Diocese MI camps have been blessed to find welcome with the sisters of the Franciscan convent in Hankinson, about eight miles from the border between the Dakotas.

Sister Jean Louise is from the convent and has been an invaluable part of the MI support staff for the past 20 years, and in the past few years Sister Mary Ruth has joined the ranks of small group leaders.

Throughout the week campers participate in small group activities like putting together a skit about a certain saint, building a game about a sacra-

DIOCESE OF FARGO PRESENTS …

THE GIFT OF THE CATECHISM

“ . . . we’ve taken leaps and jumps from the day we came here to the day we’re leaving. In one short week we’ve grown so much in our faith.

Daniel K. ment, or participating in discussion about some topic relating to the theme of the week.

In addition, guest speakers give talks about the theme or Maximilian’s spirituality. There are also fun and games, Mass, Eucharistic adoration, prayers from the Liturgy of the Hours and a daylong pilgrimage that is made in the middle of the week to shrines, churches, and other attractions within a few hours’ drive of camp.

Sacraments the focus For the July 7 through 12 camp this year, the talks and activities focused mainly on the seven sacraments, with

I know Him in whom I have believed.

(2 Timothy 1:12)

Come and learn how the Catechism of the Catholic Church is the premiere gift of our times and discover how to unlock the central mysteries within it.

Guest Speaker

Dr. Petroc Willey Acting Director of Maryvale Higher Institute of Religious Sciences.

Presentation underwritten by a grant from Catholic Extension.

Locations St. Mary’s, Grand Forks Tuesday, September 10th 5:30 p.m. Supper† 6:30–8:30 p.m. Presentation

St. Therese the Little Flower, Rugby Wednesday, September 11th 5:45 p.m. Supper† 6:30–8:30 p.m. Presentation

St. Charles Borromeo, Oakes Thursday, September 12th 5:30 p.m. Supper† 6:30–8:30 p.m. Presentation

Sts. Anne & Joachim, Fargo Sunday, September 15th 1:00–5:00 p.m. Workshops 5:00–6:00 p.m. Supper†

† Please RSVP for the supper by Sept. 9th to Katie Dubas at (701) 356-7908 or online www.fargodiocese.org/CCC. Free-will offering will be taken.

An image of Mary, the Immaculate Conception, patroness of the Diocese of Fargo, from a prayer book presented to Cardinal Aloisius Muench

“This catechism is given to [the Christian faithful] that it may be a sure and authentic reference text for teaching Catholic doctrine… It is also offered to all the faithful who wish to deepen their knowledge of the unfathomable riches of salvation.”

— Pope John Paul II, The Deposit of Faith

YEAR OF FAITH

”

talks about what everyday sacraments are, about chastity and about angels to supplement the learning.

“The sacraments are definitely what keep my faith going,” said Mike W., who has been coming to MI Camp for four years. “I kind of don’t get a lot of the spiritual gifts that we get here at camp, like I can’t go to Mass on a daily basis and I can’t receive penance as much as I’d like at military chapels. [The Sacraments have] definitely helped me grow in my spiritual life and so this theme is perfect for what I’ve been going through over the past year.”

As a special treat this year, the camp took a small detour during the pilgrimage to Grasshopper Chapel in Cold Spring, Minn., to see the largest ball of twine on record in Darwin, Minn.

In previous years the pilgrimages have taken the campers to the Bagg Farm, churches in Wahpeton and Fargo, and even as far as the shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe in La Crosse, Wis. This year there were 53 campers — 26 of whom were first timers; 12 support staff — eight small group leaders, Father Scott Sautner from St. Philip in Hankinson and Sister Jean Louise as spiritual directors, Theresa Olson as camp nurse who also handled behind the scenes details, and Kathy Loney, camp director.

As Daniel K., a fourth-year camper, put it, “It’s fun. Many people don’t understand this camp because it can be kind of stressful. It is a lot of work, but at the end of camp, we always have a warm tingly feeling. Because we’ve grown, we’ve taken leaps and jumps from the day we came here to the day we’re leaving. In one short week we’ve grown so much in our faith.”

He looks forward to two more years as a camper during which he can hang out with friends and learn more about the Catholic faith.

The new campers enjoyed making new friendships with fellow “MIers”, and deepening their relationship with Jesus through the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

Jacob B. had been reluctant to come at first, but after the first day he was excited for the new experience. “I was kind of forced into it, actually. My parents said I had to do one Catholic camp this year, but I didn’t really want to go because I like staying home. I didn’t know anybody. I mean, I recognized a few people because my sister had come before. So the first day I wasn’t sure about it, but after that it was awesome. Now I know everybody!”

When asked if he would like to return, he said, “Oh for sure! Definitely going to tell people about it.”

And so, through it all St. Maximilian Kolbe’s mission to evangelize to the world through Mary’s Immaculate Heart continues on, leading many people from different walks of life closer to Jesus’ Sacred Heart.

God is good — all the time.

Wiegrefe is a member of Cathedral of St. Mary, Fargo.

JULY-AUGUST 2013 ■ 7

NEWEARTH

‘Memories are Made of This’ — St. James Academy Centennial reflections

By Father Bernard Pfau

School reunions are priceless events.

Even though there may be apprehensions about seeing classmates and reminiscing about the old days together, these occasions are usually filled with gratitude and precious memories.

There is also the realization that some of our classmates have died and are no longer with us. But all in all, we generally come away from these special events with a deeper appreciation of our own lives and how God has accompanied all of us through the years.

I’ve witnessed the sharing of memories of the deceased at vigils and funerals as invaluable for families and friends as they bid their farewells to their loved ones. Sharing of memories reminds me of a most popular song years ago, “Memories are Made of This”, and how important it is to celebrate memories throughout our lives.

On June 29 and 30, alumni and staff of St. James Academy and School gathered in New Rockford to observe the centennial of the beginning of Catholic education for many people in New Rockford and neighboring towns.

St. James Academy traces its roots back to 1913 when the Presentation Sisters of Fargo journeyed to New Rockford to staff and administer this school. Even though the high school discontinued in 1971, and the grade school closed its doors in 1991, many of the Mary Lou (Ziegler) Burger graduated from St. James Academy in alumni and staff of former years made an effort to be 1946 and travelled from Nevada for the St. James Academy Cenpresent for this occasion and give thanks for the gift of tennial.

Catholic school education in their younger years. The and housing were paid for by the Dream-A-Wish Founopportunity to socialize with each other and to join in dation. There were numerous people delighted in helpthe celebration of the Holy Eucharist with the religious ing her to get to New Rockford and accompanying her and priests present made this occasion even more to the centennial event. memorable for those in attendance.

When I look at the face of Mary (pictured above) I see a person tried and tested by the hard knocks of life She came from Nevada with many great stories to tell and share with friends and loved ones. St. James Academy and School gave One of the alumni who characterizes this special Mary Lou a firm foundation of faith and wisdom that gathering is Mary Lou (Ziegler) Burger, who was a gradhas sustained her. uate of St. James Academy in 1946. She is 89 years of age and travelled from Henderson, Nev., to New RockThere is much talk today about the “New Evangeford to join in this reunion and celebration. Her flight lization” that will make a significant difference in the

Worried About Increased Taxes in 2013?

Stabilize Your Retirement Income With a Charitable Gift Annuity Five Reasons to Acquire a Charitable Gift Annuity 1) Attractive Rates* 2) Tax-Free Payments 3) Tax Deductions* 4) Fixed, Regular Payments 5) Your Catholic Faith is important to you!

Submitted photos

This book commemorated the memories created at St. James Academy in New Rockford.

lives of believers and nonbelievers in today’s world.

St. James Academy and School proved to be the most effective tools for evangelization for its students and their families for the 78 years of its operation.

As we struggle to find new ways of reaching our children, youth and their families with the message of our Catholic faith, we will always be grateful to God for the commitment and dedication of those who provided our parishes and cities with a relevant and faithful ministry of serving Christ’s people and implanting in them memories that will last forever.

1.8 Million Strong & Growing.

Often called the “strong right arm of the Catholic Church,” the Knights of Columbus has 1.8 million members worldwide and is growing. If you’ve never been asked to join, consider yourself asked. Learn more about membership by contacting your agent.

Single-Life Gift Annuity Rates

11.5%

12% .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

9.7%

º

10% .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

8.3%

º

º

8%........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

7.3% 6.0%

º

6.3%

º

6.7%

º

º

6%........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Bob Wolf

Ryan Brunner

Wayne Cherney

Jeff Risenauer

General Agent, Fargo (701) 356-6664 robert.wolf@kofc.org

Grand Forks (701) 757-0523 (218) 779-3625

Devils Lake 800-906-6780 wayne.cherney@kofc.org

Fargo (218) 512-0436 (701) 356-8889

Glenn Hangaard Hankinson

Pat Dolan Fargo

Ryan Geigle Jamestown

John Edwards Velva

(701) 242-7736 (701) 680-0870

(701) 298-9922 patrick.dolan@kofc.org

(701) 320-8802 (701) 251-9019

(701) 721-7689 (701) 338-2499

4%........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

AGE 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 *Annuity rate and charitable deduction depend on your age at time of gift.

✁ Please send a gift annuity sample for a gift of: ■ $20,000 ■ $10,000 ■ $5,000 ■ $2,000 ■ $____________ Name _____________________________________________________________________________ Date of Birth (month/day/year) _____________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip ______________________________________________________________________ Phone _____________________________________________________________________

For more information contact your parish or Steve Schons, Director of Development and Stewardship for the Diocese of Fargo.

He can be reached at (701) 356-7926 or e-mail him at steve.schons@fargodiocese.org

8 ■ JULY-AUGUST 2013

NEWEARTH

Jubilees Sister Beata and Sister Dianna mark 60 years

Papal intentions

Two Sisters of St. Francis celebrated 60 years of consecrated life June 10 at St. Francis Provincial House in Hankinson. Sister Beata Seil and Sister Dianna Hell made their first profession of religious vows together on July 20, 1953.

Sister Beata, a woman of many talents and an artist by nature, was assigned to the vestment department of the convent where she added fine embroidery to many of the items produced there during her first 12 years as a sister.

She came to the convent knowing how to drive a car and pilot small planes, in the days when few sisters did either. Her driving skills made her the obvious choice of her superiors when they needed transportation to meetings and visits at the other missions of the community.

Over her 60 years, Sister Beata, after leaving the vestment department, worked as a hospital bookkeeper, obtained a degree in journalism from the University of North Dakota and was the coordinator of St. James Religious Center in Grand Forks from 1975 to 2000, an education center established to pool the resources of all five parishes of Grand Forks and East Grand Forks. In her spare time she painted many beautiful landscapes.

Now in retirement, Sister Beata delights in her daily life in the convent, her time to enjoy the beauty of nature, and the kindness of the Lord she finds in those she meets in her daily rounds.

Sister Dianna, serving at Oakes Community Hospital for the last 21 years, was stationed at St. Gerard’s Hospital from 1962 to 1992 where she worked in both the lab and x-ray departments.

Sister Dianna has spent all of her years in religious life in the hospital missions of her Franciscan community.

General intention: Parents and Teachers.

That parents and teachers may help the new generation to grow in upright conscience and life.

August

Reflection: Are there some ways in which you live as though God does not exist or matter?

Mission intention: The Church in Africa.

That the local Church in Africa, faithfully proclaiming the Gospel, may promote peace and justice.

Reflection: How does spiritual poverty — the absence of faith — lead to injustice and material poverty?

September General intention: Value of Silence. That people today, often overwhelmed by noise, may rediscover the value of silence and listen to the voice of God and their brothers and sisters.

Reflection: How is being silent in the presence of another a sign of deep love?

Submitted photo

Sister Dianna Hell and Sister Beata Seil hold a photo of themselves when the two Franciscans made their first profession of religious vows together in 1953. The sisters celebrated 60 years of consecrated life on June 10 at their community’s provincial house in Hankinson.

She studied medical technology and radiology at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Minot, and Minot State College, and served in that field at hospitals the Sisters of St. Francis ran in Drayton, Cando, Hankinson and Oakes, all in North Dakota; and at Gettysburg in South Dakota.

After retiring from the lab at Oakes Community Hospital in July 1994, she was asked to help develop their budding Information Technology Department.

Today Sister Dianna serves full-time at

the hospital, now owned by Catholic Health Initiatives, as the Mission/ Spiritual Services Director, on the Medical Ethics Committee and on the Senior Management Team.

At St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Oakes, Sister Dianna plays the organ for liturgies and works with Father William Gerlach in her ministry to the ill and elderly at the hospital and Good Samaritan Center in Oakes.

Mission intention: Persecuted Christians.

That Christians suffering persecution in many parts of the world may by their witness be prophets of Christ’s love.

Reflection: How does the Sacred Heart of Jesus help me to respond non-violently to people who have hurt me?

Provided by Apostleship of Prayer, www.apostleshipofprayer.org.

Birthday

Celebrating a century Ed Mauch of Hankinson celebrated his 100th birthday on June 16.

Ed and his wife, Rita, 93, have been married for 73 years. They have 11 children, 42 grandchildren and 52 great-children.

Ed was a farmer. He retired in 1975 and moved to Hankinson.

Share life’s milestones As a way to celebrate life and love, we encourage parishioners throughout the Diocese of Fargo to send photos of anniversaries of 60 or more years, or birthdays of 80 or more years, to New Earth, Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd., Ste. A, Fargo, ND 58104-7605 or news@fargodiocese.org.

JULY-AUGUST 2013 n 9

NEWEARTH

400,000 at WYD opening Catholic News Service

CNS photo / Paul Haring

Pilgrims cheer during the opening ceremony of World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro July 23. Young people endured rain and wind on Copacabana beach during the event's kickoff and opening Mass.

The mosaic of hundreds of national flags waving in the cold wind on Copacabana beach was symbolic, as pilgrims from all backgrounds, driven by a single faith, participated in the opening Mass for World Youth Day. “We come from different cultures, speak different languages, but we sing the same songs and have the same faith,” said Nancy Issa of Ramallah, West Bank. Issa and 20 other Palestinians came to Brazil for the July 23-28 events.

Rio Archbishop Orani Joao Tempesta officially opened World Youth Day with the evening Mass.

“This week Rio becomes the center of the church, alive and young,” he said.

“These youths’ enthusiasm show the face of the young Catholics. . . . I celebrate for all those who believe that a new world is possible.”

Police said more than 400,000 pilgrims braved the rain to gather on the beach. Some reacted with joy and tears when young people made their way up on the main stage carrying the Pilgrim's Cross.

“Emotions are very high,” said Jose Leonardo Chacin, 27, an accountant from Maracaibo, Venezuela. “Especially since the pope is Latin American.”

At the beginning of his speech, Arch-

bishop Tempesta remembered retired Pope Benedict XVI, responsible for choosing the city to host World Youth Day 2013. He later highlighted the importance of this first foreign trip by Pope Francis.

“This World Youth Day was destined to be . . . the first apostolic trip of the first Latin American pope in history," said the archbishop.

In the crowd, thousands of Argentines cheered. Nearby, a small group of Canadians were ecstatic with the whole celebration.

“This is so great. The enthusiasm, the passion, it is all incredible,” said J.P. Martelino, 18, of St. Patrick Parish in Vancouver, British Columbia. When asked what he would take from the week, Martelino replied, “Definitely the energy. . . . I will take that to Canada with me and try to reproduce it so it may attract more young people to church.”

After the Mass, the rain started to pick up, and slowly the pilgrims headed home. Tired and cold, many still smiled, telling Catholic News Service that this had been a great first day.

“I believe that World Youth Day is similar to going to Mecca for Muslims," said Chacin. “Every Catholic, no matter what age, should do it at least once in his or her lifetime.”

First encyclical of Pope Francis explains faith as unity with Jesus Continued from page 1 Pharisaism, a closing prayer to Mary as the “perfect icon of faith,” and an entire section on the relevance of faith to earthly justice and peace echo themes that Pope Francis has already made signatures of his young pontificate.

“Lumen Fidei” begins with a brief survey of the biblical history of faith, starting with God’s call to Abraham to leave his land — “the beginning of an exodus which points him to an uncertain future” — and God’s promise that Abraham will be “father of a great nation.”

The Bible also illustrates how men and women break faith with God by worshipping substitutes for him.

“Idols exist, we begin to see, as a pretext for setting ourselves at the center of reality and worshipping the work of our own hands,” the pope writes. “Once man has lost the fundamental orientation which unifies his existence, he breaks down into the multiplicity of his desires . . . Idolatry, then, is always polytheism, an aimless passing from one lord to another.”

Pope Francis sees another way of turning from God in the Pharisees’ belief that salvation is possible through good works alone.

“Those who live this way, who want to be the source of their own righteousness, find that the latter is soon depleted and that they are unable even to keep the law,” the pope writes. “Salvation by faith means recognizing the primacy of God’s gift.”

Jesus: model and mediator Faith finds its fulfillment in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the pope writes. By virtue of his humanity, Jesus is both the object of faith and the ultimate model and mediator for all believers.

“Christ is not simply the one in whom we believe, the supreme mani-

festation of God’s love,” Pope Francis writes. “He is also the one with whom we are united precisely in order to believe. Faith does not merely gaze at Jesus, but sees things as Jesus himself sees them, with his own eyes: it is a participation in his way of seeing.”

This participation means that faith inevitably makes a Christian part of Christ’s mystical body, the church.

“It is impossible to believe on our own,” the pope writes. “By its very nature, faith is open to the ‘we’ of the church; it always takes place within her communion.”

The church transmits the faith across time “through an unbroken chain of witnesses,” allowing us to “see the face of Jesus,” Pope Francis writes. “As a service to the unity of faith and its integral transmission, the Lord gave his church the gift of apostolic succession. Through this means, the continuity of the church’s memory is ensured and certain access can be had to the wellspring from which faith flows.”

Accordingly, members of the hierarchy stand as the authoritative teachers of the contents of Christian faith.

The “magisterium of the pope and the bishops in communion with him,” the pope writes, “ensures our contact with the primordial source and thus provides the certainty of attaining to the word of Christ in all its integrity.”

More than doctrine Yet faith in its fullness is more than doctrine, Pope Francis writes; it is “the new light born of an encounter with the true God, a light which touches us at the core of our being and engages our minds, wills and emotions, opening us to relationships lived in communion.”

Thus the primary means of transmitting faith is not a book or a homily, but the sacraments, especially baptism and the Eucharist, which “communicate an incarnate memory, linked to the times and places of our lives, linked to all our

Pope waves to North Dakota student pilgrims Pope Francis gives an enthusiastic greeting to North Dakota Catholic high school students during their pilgrimage to Italy June 17 through July 3. While at Assisi, the group participated in Mass celebrated by Archbishop Samuel Aquila of Denver, former Bishop of Fargo.

Photo submitted by Rebecca Raber

senses; in them the whole person is engaged as a member of a living subject and part of a network of communitarian relationships.”

The belief that the “Son of God took on our flesh” and “entered our human history” also leads Christians “to live our lives in this world with ever greater commitment and intensity,” the pope writes, arguing that faith inspires both the use of human reason and pursuit of the common good.

For faith, Pope Francis writes, truth is not attainable through autonomous reason alone but requires love, a “relational way of viewing the world, which then becomes a form of shared knowledge, vision through the eyes of another and a shared vision of all that exists.”

By affirming the “inherent order” and harmony of the material world, and “by stimulating wonder before the profound mystery of creation,” Christian faith encourages scientific research, while dispelling the philosophical relativism that

has produced a “crisis of truth in our age.”

Faith also inspires respect for the natural environment, by allowing believers to “discern in it a grammar written by the hand of God and a dwelling place entrusted to our protection and care.”

According to Pope Francis, faith has proven itself essential to the promotion of “justice, law and peace,” by contrast with failed modern ideologies that also claimed those goals.

“Modernity sought to build a universal brotherhood based on equality,” he writes, “yet we gradually came to realize that this brotherhood, lacking a common reference to a common father as its ultimate foundation, cannot endure.

“We need to return to the true basis of brotherhood,” the pope writes. “Faith teaches us to see that every man and woman represents a blessing for me, that the light of God’s face shines on me through the faces of my brothers and sisters.”

Toward S

SOON TO BE SAINTS

10 ■ NEWEARTH

Pope clears t for the canon of two previo John Paul II, Catholic News Service

Pope Francis signed a decree clearing the way for the canonization of Blessed John Paul II and has decided also to ask the world’s cardinals to vote on the canonization of Blessed John XXIII, even in the absence of a miracle.

After Pope Francis met July 5 with Cardinal Angelo Amato, prefect of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes, the Vatican published a list of decrees the pope approved related to The card Blessed John Paul’s archbishop canonization and 11 other sainthood members of causes.

“

Publishing the decrees, the Vatican also said, “The supreme pontiff approved the favorable votes of the ordinary session of the cardinal- and bishop-fathers regarding the canonization of Blessed John XXIII (Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli) and has decided to convoke a consistory that will also involve the canonization of Blessed John Paul II.”

CNS photo/Joe Rinkus Jr.

Blessed John Paul II, above, will be declared a saint, the Vatican said July 5, after officials approved a second miracle attributed to his intercession.

The Polish pontiff is pictured here arriving in Miami for the start of his 1987 trip to the United States. At left, Pope John XXIII is pictured in a portrait taken not long after his election on Oct. 28, 1958. Pope Francis has asked the world’s cardinals to vote on the canonization of Blessed John XXIII, even in the absence of a miracle.

CNS file photo

congregation Vatican July in favor of recognizing the healing Mora Diaz, a who was suff brain aneu recovered af through the of Blessed J

Normally, after a pope signs a decree recognizing the miracle needed for a canonization, the pope consults with cardinals around the world and calls a consistory — a gathering attended by any cardinal who wants and is able to attend — where those present voice their support for the pope’s decision to proclaim a new saint.

A date for a canonization ceremony is announced formally only during or immediately after the consistory.

The cardinals and archbishops who are members of the saints’ congregation met at the Vatican July 2 and voted in favor of the pope recognizing as a miracle the healing of Floribeth Mora Diaz, a Costa Rican who was suffering from a brain aneurysm and recovered after prayers through the intercession of Blessed John Paul.

The congregation members, according to news reports, also looked at the cause of Blessed John and voted to ask Pope Francis to canonize him without requiring a miracle. According to church rules — established by the pope and subject to changes by him — a miracle is needed after beatification to make a candidate eligible for canonization.

A church tradition Jesuit Father Paolo Molinari, the longtime head of the College of Postulators — or promoters of sainthood causes — has explained that in the sainthood process, miracles are “the confirmation by God of a judgment made by human beings” that the candidate really is in heaven.

Sainthood

JULY-AUGUST 2013 ■ 11

the way nizations ous popes, John XXIII

But, Father Molinari also has said that for decades theologians have explored the possibility that such a confirmation could come by means other than someone experiencing a physical healing. For instance, Blessed John Paul beatified Victoire Rasoamanarivo in Madagascar in 1989 after accepting as a miracle the case of a windswept brush fire stopping at the edge of a village whose inhabitants invoked her intercession.

Announcing the decision about Blessed John’s cause, dinals and Jesuit Father Federico ps who are Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, said the f the saints’ discussions about the n met at the need for miracles and what can be defined 2 and voted as an acceptable miracle continue. Howf the pope ever, he said, the as a miracle movement in the late pope’s cause does not of Floribeth indicate a general change in church a Costa Rican policy.

The members of fering from a the Congregation for urysm and Saints’ Causes “have expressed their hope, fter prayers and the Holy Father intercession has accepted it,” Father Lombardi said. If Pope Francis “had ohn Paul. any doubts, we wouldn’t be here” announcing the consistory to approve Blessed John’s canonization.

“As we all know very well, John XXIII is a person beloved in the church. We are in the 50th anniversary year of the opening of the Second Vatican Council, which he convoked. And I think none of us has any doubts about John XXIII’s virtues,” the spokesman said. “So, the Holy Father is looking toward his canonization.”

Father Lombardi also noted that no date for a canonization ceremony was announced, but it is likely that the two popes will be canonized together, possibly “by the end of the year.”

”

Others also recognized The other decrees approved by Pope Francis July 5 recognized: ■ The miracle needed for beatification of Spanish Bishop Alvaro del Portillo, who in 1975 succeeded St. Jose Maria Escriva as head of Opus Dei. Bishop del Portillo died in 1994.

■ The miracle needed for the beatification of Maria Josefa Alhama Valera, also known as Mother Esperanza, the Spanish founder of the Handmaids of Merciful Love and the Sons of Merciful Love. She died in Italy in 1983.

■ The martyrdom of four groups of priests and nuns killed during the Spanish Civil War in 1936-1939.

■ The heroic virtues of three founders of religious orders; an Italian priest; and an Italian layman.

Floribeth Mora Diaz, the Costa Rican woman whose inexplicable cure has been attributed to the intercession of Blessed John Paul II, embraces her husband, Edwin Arce, as she gives her testimony to the media in San Jose, Costa Rica, July 5.

CNS photo/ Juan Carlos Ulate, Reuters

God does not break natural laws when he works miracles “We believe in a God

By Msgr. Daniel Pilon

You may have read in The Forum a couple of weeks ago, in the Opinion page, a criticism of the Catholic Church and its belief in miracles.

The context was accepting as a miracle an inexplicable act of healing as a sign to go forward with the canonization of Pope John Paul II. The opinion piece criticized belief in miracles as a belief in a “God of the gaps.”

Essentially this belief is an argument that proof of God’s existence and action comes in the gaps between actions that happen, but are not able to be explained by science.

Skeptical people argue that since science is gradually able to explain more and more, the gaps for God to act are getting narrower. Eventually science will explain everything and there will be no more room for God since there will be no gap for a miracle.

I recently read a book that had good insights to the biblical view of miracles and how contemporary theology can use these insights to understand miracles. In this view scientific understanding does not have to contradict supernatural realities. I will try to provide a short summary of this theological explanation of miracles. The book I will be taking these ideas from is “Jesus of Nazareth: What He Wanted, Who He Was,” by Gerhard Lohfink.

Grace builds on nature In the Bible a miracle is something unusual, inexplicable that amazes people. But miracles could also be present in the everyday experience of life, e.g., the experience that God continually supports and maintains the worlds of creation. In the Bible God is constantly speaking to his people. Every happy result, every rescue and the glory of creation is a miracle.

Since the age of enlightenment, the secular view was that the world must be explained with respect for its own laws and processes. In reaction to this, theology tried to protect miracles by defining them as events contrary to nature. God intervenes directly in the world to

who, because he transcends and is above his creation, is free to act through his creation.

Msgr. Daniel Pilon

”

demonstrate his power.

Lohfink argues that the Bible spoke of things that were unusual and amazing as being signs of God’s action, not necessarily breaking natural laws in specific events.

He applies this biblical understanding of miracle and ties it to today’s theology of grace. This theology starts with the scholastic axiom that grace builds on nature. Grace starts with the natural predisposition of a human person and brings it to perfection.

In any sacrament God does not destroy the elements, he brings them to a higher level of relationship with him.

Marriage has always been a sign of unity and mutual self-giving. As a sacrament, marriage reveals Christ’s unity with his Church and the commitment that God has for his people.

Lohfink applies this theology to creation.

When a person receives grace two freedoms encounter each other, that of God and that of a human being. God does not avoid human freedom and independence, rather his grace builds on human freedom.

God does not have to intervene and break natural laws; rather he works in and through them. Since he is beyond and outside the world, he is not limited by the world’s laws. When God works in history, it is entirely God’s work, but at the same time it is entirely human work.

Faith a necessity When God works a miracle, he does not have to break a natural law; rather he brings it to a higher level.

In the healing stories in the Gospels,

Lohfink notes that faith in God is demanded. Jesus does not perform group healings. In Mark’s Gospel when Jesus is in Nazareth and faith is absent, Jesus is not able to work any miracles. God’s action is tied to the faith of concrete persons who freely open themselves to the reign of God. Just as human freedom cannot be violated by God’s actions, so natural laws are not broken. They are put to the service of a new and greater whole, he says.

He speaks of the plasticity or the malleability of nature.

An example that occurs to me is the proverb that the storm in North America may have had its start by the fluttering of a butterfly in China. The point is the interconnectedness of nature is beyond our comprehension.

An example that Lohfink points out is the placebo effect. Whenever scientists do studies of the effects of drugs, they have to account for the placebo effect.

The placebo effect is the observation that the expectation of being healed somehow activates the self-healing of the body even if the treatment is a mere sugar pill.

As he says, everyone apparently has powers of self-healing but everything has to be right: the right moment, the right actions, the right person to set things in motion.

God free to act Lohfink’s argument is that the natural aspects of a miracle do not exclude the action of God. God acts in and through the autonomy of the world.

The insight that I take from Lohfink’s presentation is that Christians are not subject of being believers in the “God of the gaps.”

We believe in a God who, because he transcends and is above his creation, is free to act through his creation. This freedom gives him the freedom to have an intimate relationship with each one of us, giving us the grace to be fully human, loving people.

Msgr. Pilon is pastor of Our Lady of Peace Church in Mayville and St. Agnes Church in Hunter.

Quotable “You can't live a perfect day without doing something for someone who will never be able to repay you.”

John Wooden

Editorial

12 n JULY-AUGUST 2013

NEWEARTH

We express our faith through both words and deeds

I

bicycle. He was stumbling and appeared n the days prior to the June 19 ordito be intoxicated. Almost as if in slow nation Mass for Bishop John Folda, motion, he and his bicycle tipped over, several reporters conducted interinch by inch, onto the sidewalk leading views with Bishop Folda, seminarians, from the road to the Cathedral. priests and others. As interim communications director, I was present for most I inwardly gasped, wondering if I of them. should tell the priest and reporter, who were unMy task for interviews aware of what was hapis to help the reporters pening behind them, get the information they Tanya Watterud that I needed to leave for want, help the person bea minute to help the man. ing interviewed relay the key messages we would like to share, and to make An angel appears sure everything goes well overall.

I looked his direction again and saw One of the interviews took place on that a woman had approached the June 18, the day before the ordination, fallen man, gently and quietly. in a shady area outside the front of the She held a bottle of water or other Cathedral of St. Mary in Fargo. While beverage and offered it to him. the reporter conducted the interview with a priest, I stood nearby listening I don’t know if it was hers or if he and watching. had dropped it, but I’m sure it was a welcome gift on the hot summer day.

Behind them, people were entering the Cathedral for the noon Mass.

I silently thanked God for the woman who served as an angel to the man, and Among those I saw was a man with a

Editorial

Is it wrong for me to buy health insurance now?

turned my attention back to the interview conversation I was overseeing.

Soon my eyes again returned to the sidewalk. The man who had fallen, and the woman who had helped him, were both gone. He must have pedaled or walked away as inconspicuously as he had appeared. She must have climbed the Cathedral steps and opened the heavy wooden door as gently and quietly as she had arrived by the man’s side.

While the priest beside me shared news about the church founded by Jesus Christ and the apostolic succession that people would witness the next day, the example of service that Jesus gave us through his own life was carried out in the background.

As the reporter wrote down words he would weave into a story that would help people know of Christ’s presence among us, the woman acted as Christ among us by tending to the man who lay at her feet.

Tell AND show Our Catholic faith is lived and expressed in multiple ways. We need to tell people about Jesus and the Catholic Church, in small, intimate conversations but also in public ways, like news interviews.

We also need to show people Jesus and the Catholic Church by tending to those who stumble beside us, assisting them with a cool drink or a helpful hand, along their own path to Jesus.

On that day, in those few moments, I experienced what it means to evangelize through word and deed.

I saw what this Year of Faith has called us to do, and I saw God’s people living out that call.

The news interview was important.

The woman’s words and actions were important.

Each communicated God’s love for the world and the gift of his Son for our salvation.

Photo Editorial

M

any individuals and business tentially facilitate) various acts of vice owners are struggling in conon the part of their employees, and all science about whether to purwho pay for health insurance coverage chase health insurance coverage, either would potentially fund and thereby supfor themselves or for their employees, port the vice of their neighbors. This on account of the Health and Human raises the serious moral concern of “coServices (HHS) Mandate. operation in evil.”

In general terms, any A provision of the cooperation in evil Patient Protection and Afshould be avoided, or at fordable Care Act, the least minimized to the mandate requires “preextent prudently possiventive health services” ble. By purchasing a polto be covered by all icy with problematic inhealth insurance issuers clusions, one would and all group health likely cooperate “materiplans. Those insurance ally” in the commission plans must provide covof various evils by otherage (with no co-pay) for ers, but the debate on the full range of Food and this matter hinges on Drug Administrationwhether that material approved contraceptive cooperation should be methods for women. considered “immediate” These include not only Father Tad Pacholczyk or “mediate.” surgical sterilizations, but Immediate material also potential abortioncooperation — when your assistance is causing agents such as Plan B (the mornessential to the evil action — is never ing-after pill), intrauterine devices and morally permissible, but mediate mateanother form of “emergency contraceprial cooperation — when your assistance tion” known as Ella. This drug, which is incidental or remote from the bad acthe FDA acknowledges may also work tivity itself — may be allowable under against the life of the embryo “by pretemporary extenuating circumstances. venting attachment (implantation) to It could be allowable as long as the cothe uterus,” can be taken up to five days operator manifests resolute opposition after sex. to the evil and takes reasonable steps to limit and ultimately eliminate that co‘Cooperation in evil’? operation.

The chief moral concern, of course, is This is a key difference between that by purchasing such mandated covallowable toleration and tacit approval. erage, an individual would be subsidiz‘Causal distance’ a factor ing pharmaceutical abortions, contraceptives and sterilizations for others, In evaluating the specifics of the HHS and business owners would similarly be mandate, the National Catholic Bioethics subsidizing these procedures for their Center has reached the provisional conemployees through their health plans. clusion that paying premiums for a Employers, in other words, would Please turn to HEALTH on page 15 provide coverage for (and thereby po-

Guest Editorial

CNS photo / Mike Stone, Reuters

Protesters hold signs during an anti-abortion rally at the Capitol in Austin, Texas, July 8, as the legislature debated abortion legislation in special session. The drama that drew national and international attention came to an end for the moment after the state House of Representatives then the state Senate voted to adopt tougher abortion regulations. Gov. Rick Perry promised to sign the bill into law soon. The law prohibits abortions in the 20th week of pregnancy, requires abortion clinics to be certified as surgical centers and increases regulations on doctors and abortion-inducing drugs.

JULY-AUGUST 2013 ■ 13

NEWEARTH

Why Judge Corwin’s ruling could be ND’s Roe v. Wade

By Christopher Dodson

On July 16 Judge Wickham Corwin issued his final ruling on the Red River Women’s Clinic’s challenge to state’s requirements for the use of abortion-inducing drugs. The reaction of Bishop David D. Kagan of Bismarck and Bishop Thomas J. Folda of Fargo can be found on this page.

The ruling is not unexpected. Judge Corwin indicated early in the case that he intended to rule against the state.

Nor are some of his legal conclusions a surprise. He previously stated some of them from the bench and in response to pre-trial motions.

Nevertheless, it is still shocking to read an opinion so far reaching and outof-step with the law and public opinion.

Most of the 55-page opinion contains Judge Corwin’s assessment of the facts and bald-face statements of opinion (e.g., “Such autonomy and self-determination becomes unachievable if women are deprived of the right to terminate an unwanted pregnancy.”)

But before getting to that, Judge Corwin does something that should concern all North Dakotans. To understand what he did it might help to explain some principles from constitutional law.

About fundamental rights The most important rights secured by a constitution are called “fundamental” rights. Governments can only very rarely infringe on these rights and when they do so they must have a compelling reason and use the least restrictive means. This is called “strict scrutiny.”

These rights include the right to speech and the right to travel. When the U.S. Supreme Court decided Roe v.

Wade it found that the right to abortion was a fundamental right. In 1992, however, the Supreme Court in Casey v.

Planned Parenthood held that the right to abortion was not subject to strict

“North Dakota could go State’s Catholic bishops from one of the most pro-life states in the country to one of the most pro-abortion states.

”

Christopher Dodson scrutiny, but to a lesser standard called “undue burden.”

The North Dakota Constitution also delineates certain rights. The state supreme court, however, has never found that the state constitution covers a right to an abortion. It is not mentioned anywhere. Moreover, the basis for Roe, the right to privacy, does not exist in the state constitution.

Judge Corwin, however, has discovered a right to abortion in the state constitution. In fact, he goes so far as to declare that not only does the North Dakota Constitution grant a right to abortion, but that the right is “fundamental” and subject to strict scrutiny.

(He even goes beyond the traditional demands of strict scrutiny by insisting that abortion laws must explicitly exempt potential victims of domestic violence.)

First-year law students are often taught that “strict scrutiny” means that the government almost always loses. If, then, as Judge Corwin proclaims, the North Dakota Constitution provides a fundamental right to abortion, much more is at stake than the laws regulating the use of abortion drugs.

State’s laws in jeopardy North Dakota is consistently ranked as one of the most pro-life states for its laws protecting unborn life to the extent possible under the U.S. Constitution and for its laws protecting children and

decry abortion ruling

North Dakota’s Catholic bishops are calling Judge Wickham Corwin’s ruling on the state’s requirements for the use of abortion drugs a “serious error.”

In a July 16 statement by Bishop David D. Kagan of Bismarck and Bishop John T. Folda of Fargo, the bishops point out that Judge Corwin has declared that the North Dakota state constitution contains a right to abortion that is more expansive than that recognized by the U.S. Supreme Court.

As a result, the opinion could put all of the At stake from this state’s laws on abortion in jeopardy, including its parental consent laws, health and safety ruling are all of the requirements, and conscience protection.

The statement follows. state’s pro-life and

“

”

Yesterday’s ruling should cause great pro-women laws . . . concern among the state’s Catholics, and North Dakota’s Catholic bishops indeed all North Dakotans.

A lone judge sitting in Fargo has declared that the North Dakota Constitution makes abortion a “fundamental” right subject to practically no limitations. In fact, the right “found” by Judge Wickham Corwin is more expansive than that used by the U.S. Supreme Court.

As a result, this case is not just about drug-induced abortions. At stake from this ruling are all of the state’s pro-life and pro-women laws, such as parental notification, health and safety requirements and conscience protection for health care providers.

We are pleased to learn that the Attorney General intends to appeal this decision to the North Dakota Supreme Court. This serious error must be corrected, whether it be through additional litigation or legislative action.

Finally, we call on all Catholics and people of good will to pray for corrective measures and for the women and children hurt by this decision. women from the dangers of abortion.

The fact that those laws are constitutional under the U.S. Constitution are irrelevant according to Judge Corwin’s pronouncement. Those laws would now be subject to strict scrutiny review under his newly found right to abortion in the state constitution.

Even laws popular among those who call themselves “pro-choice,” like parental notification, physician-only requirements, data reporting, and conscience protection for health care work-

ers, would be in jeopardy. North Dakota could go from one of the most pro-life states in the country to one of the most pro-abortion states.

North Dakota Attorney General Wayne Stenehjem says that he will appeal the decision to the North Dakota Supreme Court.

North Dakotans should welcome that action.

Without correction, Judge Corwin’s decision will become the Roe v. Wade for North Dakota.

Laws preclude people of faith from engaging in business, service

A

re corporations and other legal enare prior to and take priority over the tities “persons” under the law and rights of any legally created person. do they have the same basic rights Catholic social doctrine repeatedly held by individuals? Anyone who has warns of the dangers of an economic studied the law or American history system that puts the interests of large, should know that, according to Amerioften multi-national, corporations over can law, the answer is “yes.” the basic needs of the individuals and Since the beginning of families. the nation, the law has We should never, recognized that corporatherefore, equate corpotions have rights as perrate personhood with sons because they consist natural individuals. Auof individual persons. thorities must place limThus, they should be able its on what a legal corto enter into contracts, poration can do if it is in sue, be sued and otherthe interest of human wise engage in public afpersons and families. fairs just like an individAt the same time, we ual. must not fall into a false Historians note that trap which uses this arthe impetus for this degument to deny human velopment was the desire persons their rights. of people to engage in The latest attack on relarger and riskier comligious freedom uses this mercial activities in a tactic. Appealing to peoChristopher Dodson manner that spread or ple’s sense that corporations are not the same as limited liability. Undoubtedly, some of the economic sucindividuals, foes of religious liberty argue that although individuals can have cesses of the last few centuries can be conscience and religious beliefs, corpoattributed to the recognition of corporations as legal persons. rations cannot.

This line of thought has become proA corporation, however, is not the same as a human person. A human pernounced and embraced by the Obama son has natural rights bestowed by God Administration in the fight over the that must always be respected and proHHS mandate that requires certain emtected. The rights of the human person ployers to provide free contraceptives

Catholic Action

and sterilization to employees. Unfortunately, some courts have agreed with this argument.

It is easy to see why this argument is appealing.

Corporations are impersonal legal fictions. Religious beliefs belong to persons with flesh and blood. So long as individuals have religious freedom, the argument goes, constitutional liberties are protected.

There exist several problems with this position, but at the heart of this argument is the idea that religion and conscience must be completely private and that both the for-profit and non-profit sectors should be devoid of any religious sentiment and even religious persons.

Suppose you and some fellow believers feel compelled to help the homeless in your community by opening a shelter and offering counseling services. A hundred years ago that might be a simple task.

Now, however, you would probably have to open a bank account, purchase or rent the shelter, apply for permits, make sure that the counselors are duly licensed and obtain liability insurance.

In most cases, those tasks would have to be accomplished by a legal entity.

Let’s look at the for-profit sector.

Suppose you are someone with a great business idea. You are also a Christian

and want to operate this new business in a manner consistent with your beliefs. Not doing so would require you to separate part of your life from your faith life, something clearly not right with a God who asks us to love him with all our heart and soul.

As any business advisor would tell you, the first thing you must do is create a new corporation (or other type of legal entity). But if the courts and the current administration have their way, you must forgo your religious beliefs when you file the articles of incorporation.

Like it or not, we have created a system of government and commerce that makes it nearly impossible to engage in public service or business without becoming a corporation.

Laws like the HHS mandate and ordinances that require businesses to facilitate same-sex weddings ultimately preclude people of faith — at least some faiths — from engaging in business and service.

We could be on our way to creating a world of two classes — a secular wealthy elite who hold the reins of government and business and a poorer class of believers who either serve the elite or withdraw from public life.

Dodson is executive director of the North Dakota Catholic Conference. Its website is ndcatholic.org.

14 ■ JULY-AUGUST 2013

NEWEARTH

Plan for the future: Take the time to plan your estate

A

person may work 40 years to accumulate assets and spend 10 to 20 years conserving that accumulation, but all too often only takes two hours or less to plan for distribution of the assets. Through good planning, a wonderful chapter of your life can be completed.

However, too many times there has been little planning, or sometimes no planning, and the last chapter of life becomes burdensome for family members.

A little estate planning can go a long way and create peace of mind. In 2011 Saabira Chadhuri wrote an article for the Wall Street Journal and wrote: “there are 25 documents every person needs to have updated and put into one place.”

Here they are:

Care Information ■ Living will ■ Do-not-resuscitate order Proof of Ownership

■ Housing, land and cemetery deeds ■ Escrow mortgage accounts ■ Proof of loans made and debts owed ■ Vehicle titles ■ Stock certificates, savings bonds and brokerage accounts ■ Tax returns

■ Life insurance policies ■ Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) ■ 401(k) accounts ■ Pension documents ■ Annuity contracts

Stewardship Steve Schons

The Essentials:

■ Will ■ Letter of instruction ■ Trust documents ■ Financial Power of Attorney (POA) Marriage

■ Marriage license ■ Other marriage papers ■ Military documents (DD214) Health-Care Confidentiality

■ Durable Health-Care Power of Attorney ■ Authorization of Release Health-

The Diocese of Fargo has an excellent booklet called "A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust" that helps people organize their personal documents. For a complimentary copy, email steve.schons@ fargodiocese.org, or mail a request to: Steve Schons, Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd, Fargo, ND 58104.

Life Insurance and Retirement

Bank Accounts/Social Media

■ List of bank accounts ■ List of all user names and passwords ■ List of safe-deposit boxes

At the Diocese of Fargo, we have an excellent booklet called “A Guide to Planning Your Will and Trust” that helps people organize their personal documents, as well as their mind. For some folks, this process can seem overwhelming.

This guide is designed to help you move forward with a plan that writes a very good chapter in the book of your life. It walks you through some of the terminology and encourages you to

Diocese of Fargo BENEDICTINE SISTERS OF ANNUNCIATION MONASTERY www.annunciationmonastery.org

Prayerful Presence on the Prairie Since 1878

think about how you want your assets to be distributed at death and to assist you in gathering the information you will need.

If you would like a complimentary copy of this guide, please email me at

On The Web

steve.schons@fargodiocese.org, or mail a request to: Steve Schons, Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd, Fargo, ND 58104.

Steve Schons is director of stewardship and development for the Diocese of Fargo.

Call Ray Simon at (701) 235-0272

Place your ad here and we’ll send targeted visitors directly to your site! www. fargodiocese.org /stewardship

Personal Commercial Crop & Hail ihryinsurance.com

•Pregnancy/Parenting/Adoption •AASK •Guardianship • Counseling

www.catholiccharitiesnd.org

www. riverview place .org

NAPOLEON LIVESTOCK 1-800-932-8821 www.napoleonlivestock.com North Dakota’s Progressive Market

BRANDT CONTRACTING, INC. www.normanfuneral.com

“The Community’s Choice Since 1882” 701-746-4337

www.fdjp2.k12.nd.us

(701) 284-7504 or (701) 331-0519 (cell) TOLL FREE 1-888-284-7504

www.steeplerepairs.com

JULY-AUGUST 2013 n 15

NEWEARTH

Walk with Christ for Life Health care coverage Youth called to March for Life next January deemed not immediate Youth in grades 9 through 12 from across the Diocese of Fargo are invited to to be Oct. 6 in Fargo participate in the 41st annual March for Life in Washington D.C., on Jan. 22. The The annual diocesan Eucharistic promaterial evil pilgrimage will begin in Fargo on Jan. 18 and return Jan. 23. cession, Walk with Christ for Life, will Continued from page 12 policy that also includes coverage for the above-mentioned procedures, devices and drugs (while opposing the mandate) does not appear to involve an individual in immediate material cooperation in evil, because a number of intervening causes are likely to exist between the paying of the premiums by a subscriber and the action of another enrollee who chooses to engage in one of the immoral activities.

The key difference between acceptable and unacceptable forms of material cooperation involves the “causal distance” between what we do by our act of cooperation, and the act of the other person using the abortifacient substance or the contraceptive that is covered by the health plan into which we have paid.

The paying of the premiums does not appear to be causally immediate to the chosen action of direct sterilization, abortion or contraception.

To put it another way, payment into a healthcare plan that includes coverage for immoral procedures would only “make possible,” but would not “bring about” the evil action of the principal agent, and hence would represent mediate material cooperation on the part of the person paying into the plan. Such a payment could be made, albeit under protest.

Thus, the position of the NCBC is that individuals purchasing insurance under the HHS mandate could choose to do so licitly as mediate material cooperation assuming a proportionately serious reason, and a lack of suitable alternatives, and an ongoing effort to resist/ oppose this unjust mandate through case-appropriate means.

A proportionately serious reason is often likely to exist, because of the seriousness of our obligation to care for our health.

For business owners, meanwhile, it is a particularly difficult question, and they may find it best to discontinue providing health insurance to their employees (even though they may have to pay associated fines). The NCBC discusses this option, and some of the morally relevant factors surrounding such a decision, in its analysis available at: www.ncbcenter.org/document.doc?id=4 50&erid=0.

Father Kurt Gunwall, vocation director for the Diocese of Fargo, will be the spiritual director.

In addition to participating in the March and the Vigil Mass for Life at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, youth will also travel to Emmitsburg, Md., to visit the Mother Seton Shrine, and see the sights of Washington, D.C. The cost for the six-day pilgrimage is $830 and includes air and ground travel, lodging, meals and tour fees.

Registration forms can be found at www.fargodiocese.org/respectlife.

Deadline to register is Oct. 18.

For more information, contact Rachelle at (701) 356-7910, or email rachelle.sauvageau@fargodiocese.org.

be held on Respect Life Sunday, Oct. 6, at the Cathedral of St. Mary, 604 Broadway, Fargo.

The day’s events will begin with Holy Mass at noon, followed by a prayerful, peaceful procession to the state’s only abortion facility.

A short prayer service will be held outside the abortion facility, then those gathered will return to the Cathedral for Benediction.

Coercion at issue The HHS mandate represents bureaucratically-coerced personal and institutional involvement in the commission of intrinsic evils. No person should ever be coerced by the state to be directly complicit in such acts.

The HHS mandate is an affront to every American. It is immoral and offensive.

If the government’s current attempt to coerce Americans into violating their most deeply held convictions doesn’t breach their religious freedom, then nothing does.

No individual or institution should have to be concerned about violating their conscience when they merely seek to safeguard the well-being of themselves, their families, or their employees by purchasing health insurance.

Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk, Ph.D., earned his doctorate in neuroscience from Yale and did post-doctoral work at Harvard. He is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Mass., and serves as the Director of Education at The National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia. See www.ncbcenter.org.

Monday, August 5, 2013 Rose Creek • Fargo, ND Registration starts at 11 a.m.

Shotgun start at 12:30 p.m.

Putt 4 a Purpose 5201 Bishops Boulevard, Suite A • Fargo. ND 58104 Steve Schons • 701.356.7926 steve.schons@fargodiocese.org www.fargodiocese.org

Bishop Folda is looking forward to meeting and greeting all golf participants!

16 n JULY-AUGUST 2013

NEWEARTH

Annual diocesan pilgrimage at Carmel of Mary set for Aug. 11 The 57th annual pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of the Prairies will be at the Carmel of Mary Monastery, 17765 78th St. S.E., Wahpeton, six and one-half miles northwest of Wahpeton, on Sunday, Aug. 11.

An afternoon of prayer and reflection will begin with the Rosary at 3 p.m. During this Year of Faith, pilgrims will receive a partial indulgence for visiting the monastery and reciting the Apostles' Creed, the Our Father and the Hail Mary for the intentions of the Bishop Folda Holy Father.

Confession will be available at 3 p.m.

Bishop John Folda will preside at the 5 p.m. Mass.

At 6 p.m., the Knights of Columbus will serve a free-will offering meal with proceeds to be donated to the Carmelites.

Pilgrims are encouraged to bring their written prayer petitions to be given to the Carmelite nuns who will then pray for their specific intentions. They may also bring a basket of goods from their harvest of garden produce or farm crops to be blessed at Mass and donated to the nuns, if they choose.

In anticipation of seasonably warm weather, pilgrims also are encouraged to bring a lawn chair to sit in the shade of the trees or an umbrella or sunbonnet and water.

For more information, call Hank or Karen Weber at (701) 642-8755.

DVDs of Bishop Folda’s ordination Mass are available. See page 5.

The 125th anniversary of the founding of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Mount Carmel included Mass and a Eucharistic procession.

Photo courtesy Gary Metzger, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Heritage Society

125th anniversary of Our Lady of Mount Carmel feted

By Gary Metzger

People from eight states signed the guest book as they filed into church at Our Lady of Mount Carmel July 7 to help celebrate the 125th anniversary of the establishment of this Catholic parish in the community of Mount Carmel in Cavalier County.

The day began with the anniversary Mass, concelebrated by Father Damien Schill and Father Matt Kraemer, who both have roots to the church and community.

The church was filled with 300 excited people, happy and proud to return to the area that many once called home.

Being able to once again go to Mass in their childhood church was a highlight of the weekend for many. People turned to one another with smiles and extended hands, eagerly waiting to turn to the next acquaintance and shake the hand of someone they had known from years gone by.

After the beautiful Mass the congregation flowed out of the church and followed Father Kraemer and Father Schill,

who carried the Blessed Sacrament in the Corpus Christi procession as the group made their way through the cemetery. Young girls led the procession as they dropped flower petals to form a colorful carpet for the Blessed Sacrament to follow.

Stopping at the foot of the crucifix, Father Schill and Father Kraemer spoke of the importance of Catholic tradition and heritage.

The girls continued to empty their flower baskets as the congregation returned to the church to finish the rosary that was recited along the way.

Father Schill then said Benediction, with the choir singing the once familiar songs of “O Salutaris” and “Tantum Ergo.”

Everyone then headed to Heritage Hall for potluck lunch and more reminiscing. The old-fashioned goodness of everyone there was evident, as the 300 who came seemed to have brought enough food to feed 600. The story of the multiplication of the loaves and fishes came to mind; there were plenty

of leftovers at Mount Carmel, too.

Maybe the extra food was due to the fact that everyone seemed to eat quickly so that they could get back to visiting; with old friends, neighbors and distant relatives that they hadn’t seen in years.

More than once the phrases, “I should know you” or “you haven’t changed a bit” were heard.

As the crowd slowly drifted away to return to their present homes and busy schedules, the chatter of the once vibrant crowd turned to silence.

This faith-filled community returned to its state of quiet and solitude, but the determination to continue the excitement lives on. Although the church was closed in 2008, the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Heritage Society continues to maintain the buildings, grounds and cemetery. So as another milestone is past we begin to look forward to the next.

This serene little village may be small and quiet, but in Mount Carmel our faith stands tall.

Gary Metzger is a member of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Heritage Society.

Real Presence Radio offers pilgrimage to EWTN Listeners of Real Presence Radio are invited to join the Real Presence staff on a pilgrimage to the main studio of EWTN in Irondale, Ala. The eight-day motor coach pilgrimage Sept. 23 through 30, will bring participants to Boys Town near Omaha, Neb., the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows in Belleville, Ill., the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament of Our Lady of the Angels Monastery in Hanceville, Ala., Ave Maria Grotto in Cullman, Ala., and Our Lady of the Angels Chapel in Irondale. The pilgrims will participate

in Mass, a healing service, a studio tour and a live show while at EWTN. Cost of the pilgrimage is $825 per person, based on double occupancy, and includes motor coach transportation, hotel accommodations, tour fees and lunches. There are three locations where participants will be picked up — in Fargo, Grand Forks and Bismarck.

Registration deadline is Aug. 15. For more information or to sign up for the pilgrimage, please call Real Presence Radio at 877-795-0122 or email lisa@your catholicradiostation.com.

Wedding and Anniversary Gifts Catholic Books for All Ages HOLY FAMILY BOOKSTORE To Know God . . .

To Love God . . .

To Serve God . . .

mon-fri 10 am - 6 pm sat 10 am to 4 pm (701) 241-7842 toll free (888) 682-8033

1336 25th Ave. S, Fargo 58103

(South of K-Mart)

JULY-AUGUST 2013 n 17

NEWEARTH

Fargo community marks fusion with Presentation union

Priest founder of Grace Before Meals to speak in Fargo The Fargo Diocese Family Life Office is hosting a dinner event on Friday, Oct. 4, featuring Father Leo Patalinghung, founder and host of Grace Before Meals.

Father Patalinghung is an internationally renowned conference speaker, author and television host who established Grace Before Meals as a movement to strengthen families and communities around the dinner table.

He will offer a food demonstration and presentation on Eucharist and Family Faith at the Table.

In addition, Theresa Notare, assistant director for the Natural Family Planning program of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, will speak on Married Love and the Gift of Life.

The evening’s event will be held at Sts. Anne & Joachim Catholic Church in Fargo.

Registration information can be found at www.fargodiocese.org/lifefaith.

For further details, contact Jennie at (701) 356-7901.

40 Days for Life fall campaign to run Sept. 25 to Nov. 3 40 Days for Life North Dakota will kick off its fall campaign with an opening prayer service on Wed., Sept. 25, at 9 a.m. at the state’s only abortion facility at 512 1st Ave. N. in Fargo.

The 40 Days for Life campaign is a three-fold effort of prayer, fasting and peaceful vigil that is being conducted globally. It is the largest coordinated prolife mobilization in history.

For more information or to sign up for your hour of prayer outside the state’s only abortion facility, visit www.40daysforlifend.com, call (701) 356-7979 in Fargo, or contact the Pregnancy Help Center in Park River at (701) 284-6601 or phc@polarcomm.com.

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 an employee 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 Msgr. 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.fargo diocese.org/victimassistance.

Franciscan Sisters of Dillingen:

The Collegeville Years File photo

Franciscan Sisters served meals to 1,340 people three times a day in 1952 in Collegeville, Minn.

Twenty-four Sisters left Germany on the Bremen steamship at Bremershaven on Aug. 9, 1913. On Aug. 20, they arrived in the New York Harbor. Three days later they were happily received at Collegeville, Minn., unpacked and went to work the next morning. The following paragraphs are excerpts from “Prairie Praise”, written by Sister Patricia Forrest, OSF, for their 50th anniversary in 1978.

A number of the Sisters had graduated in Germany from a five-year course which qualified them to teach sewing, embroidery and other kinds of needlework. In the United States, these Sisters devoted themselves largely to cooking, sewing and doing the laundry for priests and seminarians, because with Franciscan simplicity they considered it an honor to serve Christ in his priests.

Cooking for over 500 persons and serving meals family-style, while maintaining at the same time a life of intense prayer, made for a busy existence in 1913. The Sisters got up each morning at 4:15 to begin their day with Divine Office, Meditation and the Eucharistic Liturgy. After a rushed forenoon of cooking, cleaning and serving, they had a little free time after dinner to catch their breath. Then from 3 to 4 in the afternoon they gathered in their house chapel for prayer: spiritual reading, recitation of the rosary, Divine Office.

Then it was time to start cooking and preparing for supper. In the evening the Sisters gathered for a social hour before going to bed, this time to mend, to play cards, to laugh and visit. In this way they developed a strong and happy sense of community in spite of the long days of exhausting work.

It soon became apparent that there were not enough Sisters for all the work that had to be done in Collegeville. In June of 1914, Abbot Peter sent a request for 10 more Sisters. Mother Innocentia lost no time in going ahead with her plan. Ignoring the rumors of war, she started out from Dillingen on July 30, 1914, with 12 new volunteers.

Just as Mother Innocentia was beginning her trip overland, Austria, with the support of Germany, declared war on Serbia. It would be another seven years before the 12 volunteers would receive permission to leave for America.

Having been in Collegeville for less than a year, the Sisters were completely cut off from the Dillingen Motherhouse and from their families at home. While their thoughts were anxiously with their families, the Sisters were more keenly aware of being strangers in a strange land. By the Trading-with-the-Enemy Act of Oct. 6, 1917, every enemy alien doing business in the United States was required to register with the government. Because the Sisters were not yet

The Franciscan Sisters of Dillingen celebrate their centenary year in America

Sunday, August 11 Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel Holy Mass —10:30 a.m.

Open House Reception Sunday afternoon 1:45-4:30 p.m.

Program at 2 p.m.

Providence Auditorium St. Francis Convent, Hankinson American citizens, they had to register as “enemy aliens.” They were fingerprinted and photographed, questioned and watched.

The complete separation from Dillingen lasted almost five years. By 1919, however, some news finally began to filter through; and the Sisters in Collegeville were able to send [needed] gift packages to their families [in post-war Germany].

Over the years, Dillingen continued to send Sisters to Collegeville. Some of the pioneer Sisters spent 40 or more years there. To all the Sisters, Collegeville was a special place because of the opportunities for liturgical prayer. . . . Besides the liturgies celebrated in their chapel, the Sisters were often present at the solemn liturgical services sung by the monks of St. John’s Abbey.

One of the pillars of the Collegeville community in its growing years was Sister Paschelina Schaflitzel. In addition to guiding the community through its first 30 years, Sister Paschelina, as local superior, did much to help in the planning and construction of the Hankinson Motherhouse. Her example inspired the Sisters to a spirit of sacrifice, making it possible for them to establish a building fund for the motherhouse, and later to pay the heavy debt incurred.

Their mission in Collegeville lasted for 45 years. As the number of students increased from year to year at St. John’s University, the Sisters’ work increased, too. Besides the regular enrollment of students, during World War II about 300 cadets were stationed at St. John’s for training. In 1952, the convent chronicle records, “we cooked three times a day for 1,340 people. Within 25 minutes, everything has to be on the tables in the dining rooms.” The Abbey did everything possible to make the work lighter, but gradually it became too much for the aging Sisters. Sister Joffrieda Kolnsperger, Sister Jordana Meyer, Sister Witrada (Gertrude) Sperr and Sister Bernadette Jaeger were the last Dillingen Franciscans to leave Collegeville in April 1958.

The Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Fargo, have fused (merged) with the Union of Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The Vatican granted its approval to the mutual request for the two congregations to become one on Nov. 21, 2012, and a ritual marking the implementation of merger took place July 22 in the Riverview Place Chapel, Fargo.

Nano Nagle founded the Presentation congregation in Cork, Ireland, in 1775.

Over the years many independent foundations, including Fargo in 1882, were made around the world. A number of the independent groups united in 1976 to form the Union of Presentation Sisters.

Today the Union of Presentation Sisters is a congregation of more than 1,300 women with hundreds of associates. They minister in 12 countries of North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa. United by a common vision and charism, the sisters are called to live simply and to use their resources collaboratively and creatively for the promotion of justice and peace.

The Fargo community will continue its commitment to local works such as the Prayer Center and Partners in Housing. The merger is intended to enhance mission and maximize resources.

For more information, visit www .sistersofthepresentation.com.

Cursillo de Cursillo in September A Cursillo de Cursillo will be held at the Sisters of St Francis Retreat Center in Hankinson Sept. 12 through 14. It begins at 6 p.m. Thursday evening and concludes on Sunday evening. This opportunity is open to both men and women and the cost for the weekend is $125.

A Cursillo de Cursillo is an opportunity for those who have already made a Cursillo weekend to deepen their understanding of the Cursillo Movement and its purpose to evangelize the world

by Christianizing our environments.

While the format of the Cursillo de Cursillo resembles that of a traditional Cursillo weekend, all of the talks presented are different and intended to deepen your understanding of the movement.

An application form and additional information is available at the Cursillo website: cursillond.org.

Peru mission fundraiser set for Sept. 11 Friends of Chimbote will host its 2013 Fall Gala Fundraiser on Thursday, Sept. 11, at the Holiday Inn in Fargo.

The event supports the mission programs founded by Father Jack Davis and Sister Peggy Byrne in Chimbote, Peru.

To make reservations, call (701) 3640162 or register on-line at www.friends ofchimbote.org.

DVDs of Bishop Folda’s ordination Mass are available. See page 5.

Youth & Young Adults

18 n JULY-AUGUST 2013

NEWEARTH

At college, it’s all about the connection Newman Connection helps campus ministry programs find Catholic students

By Matthew Kurtz

Faith-saving connection

When Lindsey Stein left home in Hankinson for college, her major goal was typical of the average college freshman: find people who are “like me.”

Luckily, people who couldn’t have been more unlike Stein sought her out first.

Stein had begun drinking in the eighth grade and had wrestled with selfharm, depression and substance abuse ever since.

When she set foot on the campus of the University of Mary in Bismarck the first time in 2011, she had her sights set on “the partiers.” But what she found was something different.

At the time her freshman year of college began, Stein hadn’t gone to confession in six years.

“It was the Sunday of the weekend I got to college — the first Mass day,” Stein remembered.

“My sister introduced me to a missionary from the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) and I was immediately struck by the joy of the way they carried themselves. The wheels started to turn in my brain.”

Despite the fact that they weren’t the type of people Stein was planning to connect with on campus, Stein was invited to join a Bible study and was surprised at the friendships she developed with other students striving to live out their faith.

“Through their strong faith life and their support, it was easier for me to go through these big steps in the faith, like going to confession for the first time,” Stein said, noting that she found herself in the confessional after less than two months on campus.

“You can grow together, you can challenge each other. I think it’s necessary to have good Catholic friendships. If I would’ve not been connected as soon as I got to college, I would’ve been more consumed into the sinful and dead life I was living.”

The need to continue educating students about their Catholic faith after they have left home is essential, Father Cheney stressed.

“We need to be throwing everything we’ve got at the biggest potential for the future of the church,” he said. “We need to put forth out best effort. We can’t just forget about them.”

Parishes wanting to learn more can contact the Newman Connection office at 1-866-815-2034 or visit www.newmanconnection.com.

Universities vs. Catholic ministry?

Statistics show that 30 percent of Catholics aged 18 to 24 abandon their faith during college, according to a 2012 study by Georgetown University’s Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate.

While the need for solid Catholic campus ministry is greater than ever, the environment on campuses has changed over the years according to Father James Cheney, pastor at St. Paul’s Newman Center at North Dakota State University in Fargo.

A few decades ago, college administrators were typically in full cooperation with campus ministry programs. Now, Father Cheney said, many universities won’t release information on a students’ religious affiliation, making the mission more difficult.

With administrators focusing all their attention toward forming students’ minds and bodies at college, Father Cheney said the third dimension of the soul is often neglected.

“Do [college administrators] want students to come out of the college experience as an engineer,” Father Cheney asked, “or do they want students to come out of the college experience as an engineer who wants to do the right thing?”

Photo by Matthew Kurtz

Lindsey Stein, a junior in the nursing program at the University of Mary, said she benefitted from connecting to Catholic campus ministry early in her college career.

Since campus organizations are no longer allowed to set up booths on campus during the first two weeks of classes at NDSU, Father Cheney and his staff have had to get creative in their efforts to find and connect with Catholic students.

Newman Connection Realizing the need for solid Catholic campus ministry, the USA Council of Serra International, an organization that promotes vocations, launched College Connection for Catholics (CCC) nearly a decade ago, which recently became the Newman Connection.

The Newman Connection offers support to nearly 250 Newman Centers and other Catholic ministries on college campuses across the country. Now, Newman Connection aims to work with Catholic dioceses to gather information on students before they leave for college.

They then pass that information to the Catholic campus ministers.

“We take those leads that are generated through Newman Connection and

follow up with them through peer ministry and issue them an invitation to come over to the Newman Center and find out about our programs, get into Bible studies and all that kind of stuff,” Father Cheney said.

“We still have time to get kids’ names in for this coming year,” said Judy Cozzens, who served as national director of CCC before it became Newman Connection. “Parishes are doing it many different ways: Some parishes try to send out letters, some set up tables after Mass and ask parents and students to register.”

If students don’t sign up on their own, parents or friends can also go to newmanconnection.com and send a student an email invitation with a personal message asking them to connect with their campus’s Catholic ministry.

“When kids start college, they join the organizations they’re going to belong to for their college career within the first two to three weeks, and they make their best friends in that time, too,” Cozzens expressed. “The first few weeks on campus are so important.”

Kurtz is communications director for the Diocese of Bismarck.

Submitted photo

Holy Rosary children assist those in poverty Some of the children of Holy Rosary Church in LaMoure are pictured holding the check for $421 which they donated to the Christian Foundation for Children and the Aging. Each week the parish has a children’s collection. At the end of the year the children select from various charities to donate to their cause. This year they selected CFCA. For more than 30 years, Christian Foundation for Children and Aging has brought hope to families living in poverty in the 21 countries where they work. Founded in 1981 by lay Catholics acting on the Gospel’s call to serve the poor, they have grown into a movement of more than 250,000 sponsors who are supporting more than 300,000 children, youth and aging friends worldwide.

JULY-AUGUST 2013 n 19

NEWEARTH

Reflecting on Catholic social teachings The dignity of work and the rights of workers The economy must serve people, not the other way around. Work is more than a way to make a living; it is a form of continuing participation in God’s creation.

If the dignity of work is to be protected, then the basic rights of workers must be respected — the right to productive work, to decent and fair wages, to the organization and joining of unions, to private property, and to economic initiative.

Questions to consider: n As a worker, do I give my employer a fair day’s work for my wages? As an employer, do I treat workers fairly? n Do I treat all workers with whom I interact with respect, no matter their position or class? n Do I support the rights of all workers to adequate wages, health insurance, vacation and sick leave? Do I affirm their right to form or join unions or worker associations? n Do my purchasing choices take into account the hands involved in the production of what I buy? When possible, do I buy products produced by workers whose rights and dignity were respected?

Provided by the Social Justice Committee of Catholic Charities North Dakota.

A glimpse of the past These news items, compiled by Dorothy Duchschere, were found in issues of the Diocese of Fargo newspaper, New Earth, and its predecessor, Catholic Action News.

July/August 50 years ago — 1963

In the process of making the clergy assignments, Bishop Leo Dworschak said he was compelled to consolidate some parishes and missions in order to provide pastoral services in some areas.

Our Lady of the Scapular Church of Sheldon will be served by the pastor of St. Patrick’s of Enderlin. St. Henry’s of Leonard will be served by the pastor of St. Henry’s of Alice. Sacred Heart of Joliette was closed May 19; families belonging to this church will be members of St. Edward’s of Drayton or Assumption of Pembina, depending on which is closer. Plans for a new parish in the western part of Grand Forks, under the title of Christ the King, had to be abandoned because it would have involved an impossible financial burden for the families living in that area. They will now be served by St. Michael’s in Grand Forks.

20 years ago — 1993

Not even fears of getting lost or concerns over sleeping arrangements can quell the enthusiasm of the Fargo Diocese’s contingent headed to Denver for

Photo courtesy The Young Disciples

World Youth Day. About 160,000 people from throughout the world, including nearly 600 from the Fargo Diocese, are expected to converge on Denver Aug. 11 through 15. Youths will make a 14-mile pilgrimage from Denver to Cherry Creek National Park on Aug. 14.

Pope John Paul II will address the entire rally at a vigil that evening and will preside over the final Mass on Aug. 15.

Bishop James Sullivan has been asked to be the celebrant and homilist at the Mass for youth at Mile High Stadium on Aug. 13. The group will arrive back in North Dakota on Aug. 16 — happy, tired and spiritually enriched.

10 years ago — 2003

The grand opening celebration of Blessed Gianna’s Maternity Home in Warsaw on Aug. 16 was a true celebration of life. “This is a day of great joy for the Church of Fargo and community of Warsaw,” Bishop Samuel Aquila told an overflowing congregation packed to the rafters in St. Stanislaus Church. An estimated 800 to 1,000 faithful from Warsaw, surrounding communities, and as far away as California and Kentucky, joined in the celebration. The life-affirming mission that began two years ago under the leadership of Father Damian Hils, pastor of St. Stanislaus and the home’s spiritual director, and Mary Pat Jahner, resident director, had come to fruition, Bishop Aquila said.

The Young Disciples and the states where they live are: (back row from left) Henry Yeagle, Missouri, Jayson Miller, North Dakota, Zach Howick, Montana, and Jeremy Gusaas, Eric Seitz, Matthew Donahue and Nathan Meidinger, all North Dakota; (middle row from left) Meghan Scott, Louisiana, Keyna Hoselton, North Dakota, Stephanie Shoenfelt, Ohio, Corey Baumgartner, Elissa Berg and Ashley Grunhovd, all North Dakota, and Kelsey Wieser, Wisconsin; (front row from left) Samantha Helland, North Dakota, Christine Saah and Katelyn Rogers, both Maryland, Shaina Lawrence, California, Rose Tousignant, Minnesota, and Anna Vanyo, North Dakota.

Young Disciples’ camps covered 28 parishes this summer, made possible by support of donors This summer the Young Disciples Teams were in full swing with four teams covering 28 different parishes within the state of North Dakota and one parish in Minnesota.

The teams have been conducting the Bible camps since the first week of June and ended their last camp on July 26.

One team was able to spend the month of July on Spirit Lake Indian Reservation working with different groups of children each week with a different camp format.

They also worked with youth groups from Fargo, who came up to volunteer as helpers one week at a time. This year, both Shanley students and the youth group from Sts. Anne & Joachim were able to spend some time volunteering with the camps.

The camps are packed full of activities and class time for the children. There is

music, crafts, a memorizing prayers contest, skits and fun outside games. The core of the camp is Mass, different rotating stations learning about the Mass, the rosary and classroom lessons twice a day that are based on the mysteries of the rosary.

Next year, through the support of our donors, the organization hopes to recruit as many if not more team members. The teams are now paid stipends of $1,000 each, and they are given the opportunity to raise funds on top of that. This helps them greatly as they give up the chance to work a summer job earning money for college tuition.

For more information about the Young Disciples, please contact Mary Hanbury at mary.hanbury@fargodiocese.org or (701) 356-7909.

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 Catholics WDAY, 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 _____________________________________________________________________

“I support the TV Mass because it was an important part of my mother’s life. My husband and I would sometimes watch it with her. I’m thankful that the TV Mass was there for her.”

— Helen Bye, Fargo

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

20 n JULY-AUGUST 2013

NEWEARTH

Tribal nation Catholics celebrate St. Kateri’s first feast day as a saint

By Matthew Kurtz

Marking what was possibly the largest organized celebration in the United States of St. Kateri Tekakwitha’s first feast day as a saint, members of North Dakota’s tribal nations and others gathered at United Tribes Technical College in Bismarck July 13 and 14 to commemorate one of the Catholic Church’s newest saints.

“This celebration is an awesome gift to the diocese. It’s a way to come together and thank God for the gift of a saint,” said Father John Paul Gardner, parochial vicar of St. Peter Parish on the Standing Rock Indian Reservation. “Her people were inspired by her life, her devotion and her vision of God. We want to have that same vision. We’re coming here saying, ‘Kateri, help us, help me to see Jesus, help me to love him.’ ” Festivities began the evening of July 13 with a grand entry procession that included representatives from many of the state’s Catholic parishes that serve its five Native American reservations.

Both Bishop John Folda of Fargo and Bishop David Kagan of Bismarck were honored with a star quilt gift from the tribes. Each bishop was wrapped in the quilt, which symbolizes being wrapped in the loving mantel of Jesus’ mother, Mary, the “morning star.”

After a demonstration of different forms of native dance, a period of eucharistic adoration was held, which included a healing service and confessions. The next day, Mark Thiel, an archivist of native Catholic collections at Marquette University, presented on St. Kateri’s life. Mass was celebrated and the event ended with a round dance, or a dance that includes all native and non-native people that celebrates life and harmony.

“She’s now universal,” Father Roger Synek said of Kateri’s canonization, which took place last October, making her the first female Native American saint. “It’s good for us to see that we are a Church, and as a Church, it includes everybody.”

Father Synek serves four parishes on the Fort Berthold Reservation.

Father Gardner wants graces from the celebration to continue to inspire all Catholics, especially Native Americans.

“St. Kateri is a doorway for them, a light in the darkness for them. If she could be here and speak to us, she would say, ‘Come to Mass. If you have sins, if you have burdens, come to the priests and there will be forgiveness for you.’ I hope this conference grows that desire in people’s hearts. Come to Mass!”

Kurtz is communications director for the Diocese of Bismarck.

Photo by Deacon Joe Krupinsky, Diocese of Bismarck

Bishop John Folda is wrapped in a star quilt that was given to him as a gift at a celebration of St. Kateri Tekakwitha’s first feast day as a saint. Members of North Dakota’s tribal nations and others participated in the celebration at United Tribes Technical College in Bismarck July 13 and 14. The star on the quilt symbolizes Jesus' mother Mary, the “morning star.” Being wrapped in the quilt symbolizes being wrapped in the loving and protective mantle of Mary.

Pack up the babies, load the car, fill the bus, bring all your friends and neighbors and come to the

57th Annual Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of the Prairies August 11 at the Carmel of Mary Monastery 17765 78th St. S.E., Wahpeton (61⁄2 miles northwest of Wahpeton)

Schedule • Rosary at 3 p.m.

(Designated church to receive Year of Faith partial indulgence)

• Mass at 5 p.m.

• Bountiful picnic by the Wahpeton Knights of Columbus Pilgrims can bring written prayer requests for the Carmelite nuns to include in their petitions and a basket of garden produce or farm crops to be blessed at Mass and given to the nuns, if desired.

If you can’t go to Lourdes . . .

If you can’t travel to Fatima . . .

Come be a pilgrim on August 11 to the Our Lady of the Prairies Shrine at the Carmel of Mary Monastery!

For more information call Hank or Karen Weber at (701) 642-8755