New October 2019 | Vol. 40 | No. 9
Earth The Magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Fargo
Missionaries from afar Mission priests transcend borders and culture through faith
PLUS
From Bishop Folda: The service of deacons
Ask a Priest: Godparents: What are they, why do I need them, and who should I choose?
Sidewalk Stories: Sidewalk chalk a success, despite news report NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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My house shall be called a house of prayer. November 22-23 Cathedral of St. Mary, Fargo
Is. 56:7
Parish Musician Workshop *
EW
*N
Prayer and Singing: Participate in Eucharistic Adoration, Liturgy of the Hours and Lectio Divina. Rehearse and sing for the Vigil Mass of Christ the King. Find more info and register at your parish or at www.fargodiocese.org/ sacredmusic by Monday, Nov. 18. Cost is $25 per person. Meals included. Event begins at 6pm, Friday, Nov. 22 and ends after 5pm Mass on Saturday, Nov. 23. Sponsored by the Diocese of Fargo Liturgy Office
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NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
Breakouts: Vocal Technique: The Basics Vocal Technique: Singing Artfully Introduction to Gregorian Chant Choosing Music for Mass Building Community Through Choir Keynote Talk: “The Love of God Impels Us� Rev. Matthew Kraemer Diocese of Fargo Liturgy Office
ON THE COVER: Father Chinnaiah Konka celebrates Mass at Holy Cross Church in West Fargo. (Paul Braun | New Earth)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
(ISSN# 10676406) Our mission is to serve Catholic parishes in Eastern N.D. as the official monthly publication of the Diocese of Fargo.
Publisher
Most Rev. John T. Folda Bishop of Fargo
Editor Paul Braun Assistant editor Kristina Lahr
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Designer Stephanie Drietz - Drietz Designs Subscriptions
FROM BISHOP FOLDA 4 The service of deacons
ASK A PRIEST 7 Godparents: What are they, why do I need them, and who should I choose?
11 24 28
AROUND THE DIOCESE 8 Answering God’s call to the priesthood, religious life, and diaconate
FAITH AND CULTURE 11 Tattered Pages: Lies of Satan and other foul things from him
COVER STORY 12 Missionaries from afar: Mission priests transcend borders and culture through faith
US/WORLD NEWS 28 Bishops in US make the Real Presence a focus of their catechesis
SIDEWALK STORIES 31 Sidewalk chalk a success, despite news report
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Send address changes or subscription requests to: New Earth 5201 Bishops Blvd S., Suite A Fargo, ND 58104
Contact Information
To contact the New Earth staff: news@fargodiocese.org (701) 356-7900 Deadline to submit articles, story ideas, advertisements, and announcements for the November issue is Oct. 16, 2019. All submissions are subject to editing and placement. New Earth is published by the Catholic Diocese of Fargo, a nonprofit North Dakota corporation, 5201 Bishops Blvd. S, Suite A Fargo, ND 58104. (701) 356-7900. Periodical Postage Paid at Fargo, ND and at additional mailing offices.
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FROM BISHOP FOLDA
The service of deacons
F
orty years ago, a significant event occurred in the Diocese of Fargo when the first cohort of men was ordained by Bishop Justin Driscoll to the permanent diaconate. The fathers of the Second Vatican Council had called for the restoration of the permanent diaconate after many centuries, and in 1979 we saw the first candidates complete their formation and receive the sacrament of Holy Orders. This was something completely new for us as a diocese, and for good reason our bishops took their time to put together and implement a program of formation. The diaconate was always understood to be the essential final step before ordination to the priesthood, and so it remains. But in the early years of the Church, the order of deacons stood on its own and had its own character and ministry. St. Luke tells us in Acts 6 that already in those earliest days of the Church, the apostles chose seven men to take on a special role of service, especially for the sake of those most in need. St. Stephen, one of those first deacons, was also the first martyr to give his life for Jesus. St. Lawrence was a deacon in Rome during the era of persecution, and he too gave his life as a martyr for the faith. St. Francis of Assisi, who is known and loved throughout the world, can also be counted among the ranks of noble deacons. The word diakonos means “servant,” and our deacons have distinguished themselves by their lives of dedicated service in the Church. They have the ministry of proclaiming and preaching the Gospel at Mass, and they also assist the priest or bishop at the altar. They regularly are sent by their pastors to bring the Holy Eucharist to the sick and the homebound, and many of our deacons have taken on a ministry of visiting the sick and the elderly in hospitals and nursing homes. Our deacons have ministered to those who are incarcerated in jails and prisons, leading them in prayer and bible studies, and frequently preparing them to receive baptism and the other sacraments. Deacons can preside at weddings and funerals, and our deacons will
frequently be seen leading vigil services for the deceased. In keeping with the charge of the apostles, deacons also have a special concern for the poor and needy. They reach out to those who are on the margins, who have little earthly wealth, and they put into action the Church’s work of charity and mercy. One aspect of the permanent diaconate stands out, and that is the role of their wives and families. While priests in the Roman Catholic Church remain celibate throughout their lives, married men may become deacons. In fact, before a married man can be considered as a candidate for the diaconate, he must consult with his wife and receive her consent. The formation program for deacon candidates also involves the wives, who join their husbands throughout the course of preparation. A deacon is accompanied by his wife and family as he makes his way toward ordination, and they accompany him after he is ordained as well. While the deacon carries out his ministry in his own right, he does so with the support and encouragement of his wife and children. In a very real way, they share their husband and father with the Church, and they participate in his ministry through this sacrifice. One reason that the Council fathers called for the restoration of the diaconate was the desire for a greater outreach of the faith into the world. I have told our deacons that they may be able to reach individuals and families that I or our priests cannot reach. They might have an ability to connect or engage with souls that might otherwise remain distant from the Church, and their presence in the world gives them a different perspective on the needs of their parishes and communities. Our popes have been calling for a new evangelization, a new missionary impetus even in those places that have already received the Gospel but need a revitalization of their faith. The deacons are at the forefront of that new evangelization because of their unique vantage point as ordained ministers who live and work in the same milieu as their neighbors. Even now, there are eight men in formation, who for several years have been preparing for ordination as deacons for the Diocese of Fargo. They study Scripture, the sacraments, liturgy, moral theology, Church history, and canon law. They get practical training in various forms of pastoral ministry, and they learn the basics of preaching the Gospel. A year from now, I hope to see all of them at the Cathedral of St. Mary where I will have the privilege of ordaining them to the Diaconate. Please pray for these men and their families as they enter into this final year of preparation and discernment. On September 14, I had the opportunity to celebrate Mass
“The deacons are at the forefront of that new evangelization because of their unique vantage point as ordained ministers who live and work in the same milieu as their neighbors.” – Bishop John Folda 4
NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
Deacons from the Fargo Diocese stand with their wives and Bishop John Folda after the Mass commemorating 40 years of the Diaconate in the Fargo Diocese, held at the Cathedral of St. Mary on Sept. 14. (Paul Braun | New Earth)
with our deacons and their wives, along with their parish priests and other members of the faithful. We recalled together the 40 years since the ordination of our first class of permanent deacons in the Diocese of Fargo, and I was able to thank them for their contribution to the life and faith of our diocesan family. It was a joyful occasion that allowed us to congratulate those who have served throughout those 40 years as well as those who were
Prayer Intention of Pope Francis
most recently ordained. We also remembered the deacons who served well and have already been called from this life by our Lord. Most importantly, it was an occasion to thank God, who continues to work through those whom he calls. Let us pray for our deacons, and let’s also be sure to thank them for their dedication and service to Christ and his Church.
Prayer for priests DECREE
Relegating St. Anselm’s Catholic Church, Fulda, North Dakota to Profane But Not Sordid Use Dear Lord, we pray that the Blessed Mother wrap In Nomineher Domini. mantleAmen. around your priests and through her
A missionary “spring” in the church That the breath of the Holy Spirit engender a new missionary “spring” in the church.
intercession strengthen them for their ministry. We pray that Mary will guide your priests to follow her own words, “Do whatever He tells you” (Jn 2:5). May your priests have the heart of St. Joseph, Mary’s most chaste spouse. May the Blessed Mother’s own pierced heart inspire them to embrace all who suffer at the foot of the cross. May your priests be holy, filled with the fire of your love seeking nothing but your greater glory and the salvation of souls. Amen. St. John Vianney, pray for us. NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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BISHOP FOLDA’S CALENDAR Oct. 14 |
6 p.m.
Oct. 17 |
9 a.m.
Women’s Care Center Banquet, Holiday Inn, Fargo Diocesan School Professional Development Day, Shanley, Fargo
Oct. 22 |
9:30 a.m.
Oct. 25 |
Noon
Natural Family Planning Instructor Training, Cathedral of St. Mary, Fargo
6 p.m.
White Mass, St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center, Grand Forks
Oct. 28 |
5:15 p.m.
St. John Paul II Feast Day, All Schools Mass, Shanley High School, Fargo
Mass, St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center, Grand Forks
6 p.m.
6 p.m.
Catholic Man Night, St. Francis Retreat Center, Hankinson
Oct. 23 |
12:10 p.m.
Operation Andrew Dinner, St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center, Grand Forks
Nov. 1
Mass and Opening of Veneration of Padre Pio Relics, Cathedral of St. Mary, Fargo
All Saints Day, Pastoral Center closed
3 p.m.
Candlelight Gala, University of Mary, Bismarck
JPII Schools Board Meeting, Pastoral Center, Fargo
Oct. 24 |
2 p.m.
Diocesan Pastoral Council Meeting, Pastoral Center, Fargo
5:30 p.m.
Operation Andrew Dinner, Bishop’s Residence, Fargo
5:30 pm.
Nov. 3 |
5:30 p.m.
Miryam Dinner, St. Philip Neri, Napoleon
Nov. 6–7
National Rural Life Catholic Conference Meeting, St. Paul
Nov. 9–14
USCCB Fall Meeting, Baltimore, Md.
“Nothing is colder than a Christian who does not care about the salvation of others.” – St. John Chrysostom 6
NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
FOCUS ON FAITH
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Godparents: What are they, why do I need them, and who should I choose?
hether you are having your first child or just adding to your family sports team, a commonly asked question is: Why are godparents are needed for baptism and what are they supposed to do anyway? Selecting godparents is often reduced to spouses deciding which aunt or uncle, brother or sister is the “next-in-line.” Also, a recent trend is wanting multiple sets of godparents for one child. Does it really matter who is chosen? Just as a popular brand of peanut butter urges mothers to be “choosy,” so does the Church call her faithful members to abide by guidelines when selecting godparents. Knowing the intended role and purpose of godparents can help us understand why requirements must be met when selecting a godparent. We look to the Bible, the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) and the Code of Canon Law to understand the “whys” and the “whats” of godparents. Sacred Scripture contains examples of adult converts to the Gospel who were often accompanied by a person who walked with them on their journey to baptism and taught them to live the faith (see St. Paul’s conversion story in Acts 9; also Acts 16:11-15). Even today we understand the benefits of having a mentor, a good coach, or a teacher to help us master a skill. A gold medal cannot be earned without coaching. “Spiritual means of supporting a godchild include offering a Mass for their intention, making a holy hour, praying the rosary, and encouraging them in the practice of the faith when you visit. – Father Jason Asselin The Catechism states, “baptism is the sacrament of faith. But faith needs the community of believers. It is only within the faith of the Church that each of the faithful can believe. The faith required for baptism is not a perfect and mature faith, but a beginning that is called to develop” (CCC 1253). The development of faith is where godparents come into play. The Catechism continues, “For the grace of baptism to unfold, the parents’ help is important. So too is the role of the godfather and godmother, who must be firm believers, able and ready to help the newly baptized—child or adult—on the road of Christian life. Their task is a truly ecclesial function (officium)” (CCC 1255). A godparent should be practicing the faith in his or her own life in order to be an example of faith to their godchild. What does the Catechism mean when it refers to the task of godparents as a true ecclesial function, or “office” in the Church? The Code of Canon Law defines an ecclesiastical office as, “any function constituted in a stable manner by divine or ecclesiastical ordinance to be exercised for a spiritual purpose” (canon 145). The spiritual purpose of godparents is pronounced during the celebration of baptism when the minister asks, “are you ready to help the parents of this child in their duty as Christian parents?” Because godparents are asked to fulfill this official role in the Church,
requirements for being a godparent are established. If Christian parents neglect to take seriously their duty Ask A Priest of handing on the faith to their chil- Father Jason Asselin dren, then fulfilling the requirements for selecting godparents will seem burdensome. If the motive for selecting a godparent is not to offend a family member or friend, then we’ve lost the spiritual purpose of this official duty. Have you recently been asked to be a godparent? Were you annoyed by having to complete a form, attend a class or actually talk to someone about fulfilling this role? Although requirements must be met by potential godparents, in practice there is no standard means for pastors or dioceses to validate these requirements. Therefore, you may have been asked to do one thing while someone else may have had it much easier! If you are a godparent or have been asked to be one, it is worthwhile to consider what really happens at baptism. Here’s what we believe and profess about the sacrament of baptism, “Holy baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit… and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church, and made sharers in her mission: ‘Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word’” (CCC 1213). This definition of baptism includes two important images: baptism as a gateway and baptism as a door to growing in the life of faith. Baptism is the beginning of a person’s pathway to a deeper love of Jesus Christ. The primary duty of parents is to form their children in the faith. This is not an easy task! Godparents become part of the child’s spiritual life at baptism to offer assistance to them and to their parents. The purpose of a godparent is greater than buying gifts. Spiritual means of supporting a godchild include offering a Mass for their intention, making a holy hour, praying the rosary, and encouraging them in the practice of the faith when you visit. The true mission of godparents is to support the faith of the baptized person throughout their Christian journey. It’s never too late to begin these or other spiritual practices for a godchild.
Author’s Note: Because the specific requirements for godparents contain several nuances, and being limited in space, I did not list them here. For a full list of requirements, see the Code of Canon Law, canons 872-874. Father Asselin serves as the pastor of St. Helena’s Church in Ellendale and St. Patrick’s Church in Fullerton. NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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OUR VOCATIONS
Seminarians
Deacon Eric Seitz
Deacon Riley Durkin
Hometown: Fargo Serving: St. Alphonsus Church, Langdon Year: Pastoral Year
Hometown: Inkster School: St. Paul Seminary, St. Paul, Minn. Year: Theology IV
Hometown: Harvey School: Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md. Year: Theology IV
Kevin Lorsung
Robert Foertsch
Matthew Kensok
Joseph Littlefield
Hometown: Isanti, Minn. School: St. Paul Seminary, St. Paul, Minn. Year: Theology III
Hometown: Wyndmere School: St. Paul Seminary, St. Paul, Minn. Year: Theology II
Hometown: Casselton School: Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md. Year: Theology II
Hometown: Hatton School: St. Paul Seminary, St. Paul, Minn. Year: Theology II
Andrew Meyer
Matthew Samson
Seth Skjervheim
Shane Hendrickson
Hometown: Wahpeton School: Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md. Year: Theology I
Hometown: Park River School: Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md. Year: Pre-Theology II
Hometown: Langdon School: St. Gregory the Great Seminary, Seward, Neb. Year: Pre-Theology II
Hometown: Ypsilanti School: Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md. Year: Pre-Theology I
Hometown: Grand Forks School: Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md. Year: Pre-Theology I
Richie Stenger
Jasper Keller
Brendon Schneibel
Taylor Ternes
Hometown: Fargo School: Mount St. Mary’s Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md. Year: Pre-Theology I
Hometown: Fargo School: St. Gregory the Great Seminary, Seward, Neb. Year: College III
Hometown: Manvel School: St. Gregory the Great Seminary, Seward, Neb. Year: College II
Hometown: Devils Lake School: St. Gregory the Great Seminary, Seward, Neb. Year: College II
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NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
Garrett Aberle Hometown: Minot School: St. Gregory the Great Seminary, Seward, Neb. Year: College II
Deacon Jered Grossman
Quinn Krebs Hometown: Jamestown School: St. Paul Seminary, St. Paul, Minn. Year: Theology I
Timothy Kraemer
OUR VOCATIONS
Religious in formation
Sr. Grace Beauclair, CSJ
Naomi Beauclair
Sr. Mary Pieta Breen, SV
Br. Michael Joseph Donahue, OP
Abbey Forward
Hometown: Fargo Simple Vows Apostolic Sisters of Community of St. John, East Orange, N.J.
Hometown: Fargo Postulant Discalced Carmelites of Our Lady of Divine Providence, Lake Elmo, Minn.
Hometown: Fargo 1st Professed Sisters of Life Annunciation, Stamford, Conn.
Hometown: Moorhead, Minn. Simple Vows Eastern Province of St. Joseph, Washington, D.C.
Hometown: Oakes Candidate School Sisters of Christ the King, Lincoln, Neb.
Sr. Mary Angela Gross, ACJ
Novice Stephen Johnson, OSB
Theresa Nguyen
Hometown: Napoleon 1st Vows Handmaids of the Heart of Jesus, New Ulm, Minn.
Hometown: Fargo Novice Order of St. Benedict, Richardton, N.D.
Hometown: Houston, Texas Postulant Carmel of Mary, Wahpeton, N.D.
Br. Francis Reineke, FMI
Sr. Miryam Vandal, PCC
Hometown: Fargo 3rd Professed Third Order Franciscans of Mary Immaculate, Warsaw, N.D.
Hometown: Langdon 1st Vows Poor Clare Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, Belleville, Ill.
Diaconate Candidates Please pray for these men during their final year of formation.
Pat Breen
Jonathan Brewer
Sts. Anne & Joachim Church, Fargo
Sts. Peter & Paul Church, Karlsruhe
Terry Fischer St. Anthony of Padua Church, Fargo
Curt Kaufman
Kirk Ripplinger
Bart Salazar
Ben Seitz
Jeff Vaagen
St. Rose of Lima Church, Hillsboro
Basilica of St. James, Jamestown
St. John’s Church, New Rockford
Sts. Anne & Joachim Church, Fargo
St. Joseph’s Church, Devils Lake
NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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e Dolan Agency: Steve Bill Fargo 701-371-3377
Wayne Cherney, FIC, LUTCF Devils Lake
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NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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FAITH AND CULTURE
Lies of Satan and other foul things from him By Matthew Komprood
TATTERED PAGES
A review of Catholic books, movies, music
W
e don’t like talking about the devil very much. If he’s mentioned at all, it’s typically in a joking manner, or in an overblown, horror-film kind of way. That is, if we think of the devil at all. In a recent Gallup poll, 79 percent of Americans said they believe in God, while only 61 percent said they believe in the devil. Both figures are declines from previous decades. Nevertheless, the Bible as well as Catholic teaching affirm the reality of the Devil’s existence. The Catechism of the Catholic Church says in paragraph 391:
“Behind the disobedient choice of our first parents lurks a seductive voice, opposed to God, which makes them fall into death… The Church teaches that Satan was at first a good angel, made by God: ‘The devil and other demons were indeed created naturally good by God, but they became evil by their own doing.’”
to knowledge, we can become convinced that this knowledge equals truth. We have knowledge of people from reading their blogs, their Facebook posts, but we don’t really know them as people. We become deceived into thinking that knowledge about the person equals knowledge of the person, and thus our understanding becomes inverted; the devil has been successful in exchanging truth for a lie. All tricks of the devil are based on lies. In the chapter on diversion, Cameli reminds us of the story of the rich man and Lazarus. The rich man could have taken care of Lazarus’ needs, but he was too diverted by attraction to his own pleasures and needs. It wasn’t that he didn’t care about Lazarus, but he was too diverted by his own needs and pleasures. How many times do we see the same temptations in today’s world, where we are constantly distracted by the temptation to own, consume, and have more, believing the lie that these things would bring us true happiness on their own. Overall, Cameli provides a helpful general overview of the ways the devil can use our natural tendencies to draw us away from the path God has set for us. He makes it clear also, that we can’t blame all wrong things on the devil, nor should we see an evil spirit hiding under every rock. If I was to offer any criticism, it would be that he doesn’t make a clear distinction between, say, a normal feeling of discouragement with a difficult task, and discouragement that comes from genuinely being tempted by the devil. Cameli might respond that, just as God is love, and every perfect thing comes from him, the devil is lies, and every lie and foul thing comes from him as well. However, this book is a great introduction to recognizing the ways that we are tempted and deceived in everyday life and how we can resist those temptations and enter more fully into the life God has in store for us.
In his 2011 book, The Devil You Don’t Know, Father Louis Cameli provides an introduction to the four major ways the devil tries to work against God’s will in the world and in our lives. This book doesn’t propose to set out a detailed theology of the devil, or the mysterium iniquitatis, (mystery of evil), in general. While the introduction briefly sets out an understanding of the Church’s view of who the devil is, the rest of the book is dedicated to giving the reader a practical understanding of how to recognize Matt Komprood is the business manager at St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center in Grand Forks. and deal with the devil’s influences. According to Cameli, the four basic ways that the devil seeks to disrupt God’s will in our lives are deception, division, diversion, and discouragement. Subsequent chapters detail each of these strategies, along with help in recognizing and combatting them. “The Devil You Don’t Know: The primary way the devil seeks to disrupt our relationship Recognizing and Resisting with God is through deceit. Cameli reminds us that the devil is Evil in Everyday Life” subtle, and we don’t generally encounter evil through overtly supernatural occurrences. Rather, the devil comes to us like he did to Eve in the Garden of Eden to say, “you will not surely die… by you will be like God” (Gen. 3:4-5). The devil has no generative Father Louis J. Cameli, or creative power of his own, all he can do is twist and mask the truth until we “exchange the truth of God for a lie” (Rom. 1:25). 2011 Cameli points out a deception particular to our time, that of confusing access to information for truth. With so much access
NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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Missionaries from afar Mission priests transcend borders and culture through faith By Paul Braun
Father Chinnaiah Konka celebrates Mass at Holy Cross Church in West Fargo. (Paul Braun | New Earth)
T
he month of October has been declared Extraordinary Mission Month by Pope Francis to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Pope Benedict XV’s Apostolic Letter Maximum Illud. In that letter, which came out shortly after the end of World War I, Pope Benedict recognized the need for a more evangelical approach to worldwide missionary work. According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Pope Francis wanted the Church to observe this month, and to “remember this extraordinary pope, often called the ‘mission pope,’ because of his prophetic stance that stressed the purity of an evangelical mission over national or economic motivations for mission, the need for indigenous bishops, priests, and religious, and the need to rebuild the missionary efforts of the Church.” Here in the Diocese of Fargo, when we think of missionaries, we think of those from our own diocese who travel to faraway places to bring the good news of the Gospel and hope to those in need. However, we also have missionaries serving here in our own diocese from places like India, Africa, Central and South America, and even Poland. They are our missionary priests, and their role in the diocese is a vital one. 12
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“Missionaries have served our diocese since its earliest days,” said Bishop John Folda. “We’re blessed to have priests from around the world who still come to North Dakota with zeal for the faith. While they serve in our parishes, they also help us to experience the universality of the Church.” While their practical service is to help fill the void from a lack of priests, the parishes they serve are not only enriched by their presence at Mass each Sunday but by their weekly service in providing the Sacraments, ministering to the needs of the communities they serve, and providing their parishioners with a glimpse into the fact that the Church is truly universal. “Having missionary priests in the diocese is a reminder that the same faith is proclaimed everywhere,” said Monsignor Joseph Goering, Vicar General of the Diocese of Fargo. “They also give us an opportunity to see that in the midst of the Catholic traditions, there are a number of different ways of living that faith out. Our cultures enrich each other.” Currently the Fargo Diocese has about a dozen priests serving as missionary priests. Many of them hear about our diocese from priests in their home diocese or orders that have served here, and they want to come as well. A missionary priest must
Father Paulraj Thondappa, pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Rolette.
Father Petro Ndunguru, Parochial Vicar at Holy Spirit Church in Fargo (left), is visited by Father Calistus Kirongozi (center), Provincial Supervisor of Father Petro’s order in Tanzania, and Father Nicholas Nilema (right), also of Tanzania. (Kristina Lahr | New Earth)
first receive permission from his bishop or superior to contact the Fargo Diocese, and once that is given the office of the Vicar General begins the long process of vetting them and getting the proper international paperwork arranged that allows them to stay and work in the United States over a five-year period. Most go home after their service here, but some have stayed and even become incardinated into the Fargo Diocese. Father Chinnaiah Konka of the Diocese of Nalgonda in India, has served at Holy Cross Church in West Fargo for about five years. He says his experience here has been a rich one and hopes that the people of Holy Cross will take away as much through their experience of his service here as he will take back home with him. “I am happy that I have had the opportunity to do ministry in the Fargo Diocese,” said Father Konka. “The church-going community is less of a percentage then my parish back home, but Holy Cross is still a strong Catholic community. People take an active part in all the activities of the parish. It is a shared responsibility. In India, it is the priest who is responsible for all of the activities. I have to ask the people to get involved in church activities. Here all the programs are well organized, and participation is spontaneous.” Priests from faraway countries have been serving in the Fargo Diocese since before its inception. From the French Canadian priests who first settled in with their parishioners along the Red River over 200 years ago, to priests who came with German, Polish, and Ukrainian Catholics settling the Dakota territory, rural priests have been a mainstay in the diocese. That holds true today, as some of our missionary priests serve in rural areas because there just aren’t enough priests within the diocese at times to meet the needs of the faithful. Father Paulraj Thondappa, also of India and a member of the Heralds of Good News order, is one of those priests. He is serving as pastor of Sacred Heart Church in Rolette; Holy Rosary Church in Bisbee; and Notre Dame Church in Willow City. While he readily admits that at times the language and cultural barriers between missionary priests and their American parishioners can be challenging, he says his experience so far
has been very good. “The highlights have been pastoral visits with the people in my parishes, interaction with the religious education and youth groups, getting acquainted with different people, and experiencing a different culture,” said Father Thondappa. “Challenges have been a different culture and the food. However, I am used to those things now. The culture and spirituality have a little different practice than in India, but when I go back I can make use of some of the good spiritual practices into my home culture. People have more freedom of choice here, and they are more liberal and independent.” “He is so energetic, and he is good for the parish,” said Sacred Heart Parish Council member Steve Grenier. “He’s been indispensable in our work in putting on a new roof and some other improvement projects. He likes to be involved, and his energy and leadership helps keep the parish moving forward.” For some of our missionary priests, the United States is not the only country they have served in. Father Petro Ndunguru, Parochial Vicar at Holy Spirit Church in Fargo, served as a missionary priest in Italy for over 16 years before coming here. He heard about the Fargo Diocese through priest friends from his home country of Tanzania who have served here, and he wanted to come see Fargo for himself. “Some of the challenges I have faced here are the cultural differences in pastoral methods and driving in winter weather!” said Father Ndunguru. “But mostly, I am learning spiritually of the strong faith the people of the Fargo Diocese have in God and of their commitment to God and one another. Culturally I am learning from them about respect and promotion of life, responsibility, and accountability. I think my experience here will help me in my ministry when I return home. I will be more efficient in my ministry, and I will be able to organize my pastoral work in an even better way.” Father Ndunguru sums up his service here in Fargo in the words of a saying in Swhaili, made famous in Disney’s The Lion King, “hakuna matata,” which translated means “there are no troubles.” NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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STORIES OF FAITH
A penny for the journey
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By Father Bert Miller
he youngest girl and the oldest boy in a World War II era family had a special bond. Today, the girl turned woman can still remember her brother swinging her with his big, long arms, hugging her, and giving her special little gifts. When the big brother went off to the big war in the Pacific, she was devastated. The fun they had vanished. She prayed that her big brother would return home soon. He did return, and they again renewed their childhood games. Soon, he was regularly bringing home a woman. They married and had three boys. The big brother never showed signs of the trauma of war, physically, mentally, or emotionally. However, his marriage lasted only 10 years. His wife took the boys to another state, and the father never saw them again. He yearned to see them, but it never happened. About 50 years later, the oldest of the three sons, came to seek out his father’s youngest sister. He found her in a retirement community for women in western North Dakota. She had a great life with her friends. She had not married or had children. Her work had challenged her through the years. She had held many executive positions in the large company where she worked. She welcomed her nephew who stayed with her for a few days. He spoke of how he remembered his dad talking about his special relationship with his sister while he played with him and his brothers. That was why he wanted to meet this woman and visit with her about his father. They had been separated when he was young. He just wanted to know more about his dad, knowing that his father was now deceased. They spoke for a while longer until the son finally asked his
aunt if she knew where his father was buried. She nodded that she did. The next day, they went to the burial site. Although advanced in age, his aunt was a good driver. They journeyed a couple of hours to the “home town” and the cemetery. After a short walk, they came upon a military tombstone with the man’s name on it. The woman and her nephew prayed there and visited some more. She said that she comes to the cemetery about three times a year. As they were about to leave, she looked down at the stone again. It was a flat stone. At the top in the middle, there was an engraved cross with a circle around it. For the first time, she noticed that in the big circle was a little circle near the lower left side. She bent down to brush that spot. Certainly, it was not supposed to be there. As she did, she realized that it was a dirty coin. She cleaned it and saw that under all the dirt was a shiny penny. Tears came to her eyes as she recalled how her big brother always gave her a penny whenever he had one in those last years of the Depression and the first years of World War II. She was delighted that he had left her another gift to remind her of their special life together. And she was happy that he must be looking on as his oldest son has come to pay his respects to “dear old dad.” Father Bert Miller serves as pastor at St. Mary’s Church in Park River and St. Luke’s Church in Veseleyville. Editor’s note: Stories of Faith is a recurring feature in New Earth. If you have a faith story to tell, contact Father Bert Miller at bert.miller@fargodiocese.org.
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OUR CATHOLIC LIFE
Be part of something bigger
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l l o f u s something bigger too? Through our participation in the Catholic w a n t t o Charities USA (CCUSA) network, we have access to charitable belong, to care providers and financial resources for natural disasters. We make a difference, also receive access to valuable information through listserves, and to be part of member-only online resources, special opportunities for other Catholic something bigger grants and programs, and greater opportunities for national than ourselves. We training events. Charities out as part of What communities are you part of already in your life? What North Dakota astart family at home, communities may the Lord be calling you to join or become more Chad Prososki at church, and in involved in? What about the many people around us who lack our communities. a strong community in their lives? Have we considered inviting Each of these communities has a great strength of their own, them into our lives and introducing them to our families, our and many of us belong to several of these communities, but churches, and other community organizations? If we don’t reach what about those who do not belong to these communities, and out to others in need, what might be holding us back? what happens to them in times of struggle? If you know anyone that could use the help of Catholic Charities ND, please let them know about our programs. We don’t want them to miss the strength in community when they need it the most. “Many of the people our programs serve Chad Prososki is the Director of Development and Community Relations have no one to turn to during the inescapable for Catholic Charities North Dakota. trials of life. That loneliness in life can be so overwhelming that sometimes the greatest gift they can receive from us is the profound opportunity to belong and to become part of a larger community. – Chad Prososki We hope that they will find their way to Catholic Charities— often through people like you—where we can offer them not only the services they seek but also the sense of community they greatly long for. Many of the people our programs serve have no one to turn to during the inescapable trials of life. That loneliness in life can be so overwhelming that sometimes the greatest gift they can receive from us is the profound opportunity to belong and to become part of a larger community. We just hosted our fifth Catholic Charities North Dakota Sunday celebration on Sept. 29. Hopefully you helped us reach EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE our goal of $150,000—a lot of money yes, but not so much when you consider we rely on all the parishes in North Dakota. If Providing exceptional faith-based education you have not joined us this year, please visit us at www.CatholicCharitiesND.org where you can see our video while inspiring excellence. and make a gift to help us finish strong. 3 yr old Little Deacons - 12th Grade One of the things each person’s story in the video has in common is that Catholic Charities was there for them when For information or a tour call 701-893-3271 they had nowhere else to turn. However, this is only possible jp2schools.org with the generous support of many friends and neighbors. By supporting Catholic Charities ND, you become a part of something that reaches farther than your own church or local HOLY SPIRIT NATIVITY TRINITY ELEMENTARY ELEMENTARY ELEMENTARY community—a larger statewide community serving individuals and families within nearly every county in North Dakota. SULLIVAN SHANLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL HIGH SCHOOL Did you know that Catholic Charities ND is also part of
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OUR CATHOLIC LIFE
The danger of eugenics Editor’s note: This is the second of a two-part series of articles from Christopher Dodson on the subject of Eugenics. Part one was published in the September issue of New Earth.
in the U.S. That was true at the state hospital where sterilizapreviously recounted how in 1913 North Dakota became tions became pracCatholic one of the first states to adopt the eugenic policy of forced tically non-existent Action sterilization. Although it was enthusiastically embraced after World War II. They continued at a by state institutions’ administrators, the law was used only steady pace, howev- Christoper Dodson occasionally in its first years. er, at the institution The original law had no procedure for hearing from the in Grafton. By the individual or his or her family. Nor did the law have an appeal time the sterilization process. The legislature changed that in 1927. The new process, law was repealed in however, only accelerated the practice. One possibility is that 1965, the state had forcibly sterilized 1,049 of its residents. The the administrators felt more confident about the process with institution at Grafton performed over 60% of them. the new law. Another possibility is that the arrival of the Great Depression, which started early in North Dakota, emboldened Sterilization without consent continued on the Indian the state to prevent the birth of “undesirables” who would be reservations. During the 1960s and 1970s, by use of coercion and subterfuge, IHS officials sterilized thousands of Native a “burden” to the state. American women without their consent. Eventually Congress In 1930, the superintendent of the state hospital boasted about took notice. One official investigation found that just four IHS the “large number of patients” selected for sterilization and how service regions sterilized 3,406 American Indian women withthe hospital was sterilizing as “rapidly as we can....” In his 1932 out consent between 1973 and 1976. The investigations never report, he stated that the selection of patients for sterilization looked at the reservations in North Dakota, but the practice is was now part of the daily medical routine and that “the results believed to have been widespread. obtained are significant of the great value of the procedure.” Where were the Catholics during this dark period of our state’s What “results” could he have seen? Neither male nor female history? Catholics comprised about 15% of the population when sterilization medically affects mental illness. Was he projecting the law was enacted in 1913, but their numbers grew rapidly onto the patients his belief that the state was better off it could after that. At the height of the sterilization push, Catholics would prevent offspring of “defectives?” Did he see what he wanted have had sufficient numbers to publicly protest, if not repeal to see or what the state government wanted to see? the law. The state hospital did, in fact make sterilization part of its Eugenics still rears its ugly head in policies on abortion, regular routine. Its official report for 1938 biennium shows it immigration, welfare, “public charge” laws, end-of-life care, performed 81 sterilizations during the two-year period. This and “family planning.” Are we going to be silent again? number comprised 41% of all surgical procedures at the hospital. Although initially the state hospital embraced forced sterilization Christopher Dodson is executive director of the North Dakota Catholicmore than the center in Grafton, the Grafton administration Conference. The NDCC acts on behalf of the Catholic bishops of North later became the chief eugenics promoter and practitioner in Dakota to respond to public policy issues of concern to the Catholic the state. In 1929, superintendent A. R. T. Wylie created a “social Church. The conference website is ndcatholic.org. services department” to, among other things, research mental deficiency. In the early 1930s, Henrietta Safley became head of this department. Safley soon after conducted a “study” of the institution’s residents that purported to show that mental deficiency was inherited. She presented her study to the governor and the legislature with an appeal for greater use of the sterilization law so as to prevent “offspring, who... probably would become a social menace or wards of the state.” We now know that she left out of her report data that did not support her agenda. The Grafton institution had sterilized only 16 residents prior For Baptisms, First Holy to 1932. It sterilized 55 more by June of 1934 and continued Communion, Confirmation, with zeal in the following years. By 1940, it had sterilized 478 weddings, and special occasion residents. The superintendent at that time, John Lamont, called gifts and books. it “common-sense control of propagation.” He went so far as to compare it to the work of a farmer who “must prevent Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. To Know God... weed-propagation and low-grade stock or lose his farm.” 1336 25th Ave. S., Fargo 58103 (south of K-Mart) To Love God... (701) 241-7842 It is commonly thought that with the discovery of the eugenic To Serve God... horrors of Nazi Germany, forced sterilizations fell out of favor
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HOLY FAMILY BOOKSTORE
NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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OUR CATHOLIC LIFE
The death of a dear friend: A joyful hurt
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n March of this year, I lost one of my dearest seminarian broth Seminarian ers from Sacred Life Heart Major Seminary in Detroit. Joseph Littlefield Emiljan Ukaj tragically died of heart failure playing the sport he loved the most, soccer. I received a call from another seminarian brother telling me this heart-breaking news on the second day of spring break. At first I didn’t believe him, and I thought it was just a bad joke. I was in total shock. After the call ended, I did not know what else to do but to just fall to my knees in agonizing prayer. I hope and pray that as I experience the deaths of my loved ones and friends, my experience continues to go beyond my own grief and pain. I pray I can continue to experience the great joy God has to offer me through their deaths. – Matt Kensok Throughout the coming days, I continued to process this and relate it to the Lord in prayer, “Father, truly I feel like a part of me has died today! This hurts Lord... deep within my heart and soul! I find myself thinking about the death of Emiljan, and how this is a joyful hurt. It hurts that I lost my good brother and friend too soon, yet I am so happy and thankful he was a part of my life.” “Joyful hurt.” These were the words the Lord gave me in prayer to help articulate my experience. The words were a double-edged sword that pierced my heart deeply. On one hand, I was experiencing so much joy reliving all the great memories Emiljan and I had together: all the 1-on-1 basketball we played, all the NBA games we watched, all the rides he gave me to and from the airport for breaks from school, all the times we sat next to each other at every Friday morning Mass, all the deep conversations about God we would have into the late hours of the night, and, most distinctly, all the ways he constantly showed his love for me through his smile, laugh, and special Albanian handshake and bro hug. On the other hand, I was experiencing so much pain and hurt because I was never able to say goodbye, never able tell him how much of a difference he made in my life, never got to thank him for being my first real friend at Sacred Heart and
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helping me get through my first semester of seminary. We never got to celebrate each other’s deacon and priestly ordinations together as we once dreamed, nor were we able to celebrate Mass together as priests. It was only through this joyful hurt over the death of my friend, however, that I was able to look back on our friendship and recognize that Emiljan had truly been Christ to and for me. As much as I wish that he was still alive today, this joyful hurt has been an invaluable experience for me. Through this, I’ve learned that death is complicated. We all experience it, deal with it, and grieve over it in different ways. The loss of a loved one is bound to be profoundly painful. I hope and pray that as I experience the deaths of my loved ones and friends, my experience continues to go beyond my own grief and pain. I pray I can continue to experience the great joy God has to offer me through their deaths—the joy of being able to remember all the good times I shared with them, the joy of faith, hope, and trust in the profound mercy of God and the power of Jesus to save my beloved deceased from their sins and raise them from the dead on the last day, and most importantly, that I continue to find joy in the hope that they are finally in the place where they belong in heaven, forever living in the loving presence of God. This is my joy and my hope for you, Emiljan, my dear friend and brother. May you rest in peace. Joseph Littlefield is a Theology II seminarian studying at St. Paul Seminary, St. Paul, Minn. Editor’s Note: Seminarian Life is a column written by current Diocese of Fargo seminarians. Please continue to pray for them.
OUR CATHOLIC LIFE
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Walking with Mary in sorrow and joy
s we just recently honored “Our Lady of Sorrows” in September, and are now in the month of our Lady of the Rosary, I thought it appropriate to reflect on Our Lady’s sorrows (and joys) and how they relate to us in our life. Traditionally, Our Lady’s seven sorrows are: the prophecy of Simeon, the flight into Egypt, the loss of the Child Jesus in the temple, the meeting of Jesus and Mary on the Way of the Cross, the Crucifixion, the taking down of the Body of Jesus from the Cross, and the burial of Jesus. What is interesting about each of these sorrows is that there is joy found not far from each one—joy in Christ’s presence and joy in relationship with him. The prophesy of Simeon, that a sword of sorrow would pierce Mary’s own soul, was only a part of the joy-filled encounter in the temple. When Mary and Joseph brought the less than twomonth-old baby to Jerusalem, there was joy for them in having him with them, and joy for Simeon and Anna in seeing “the salvation prepared in the sight of every people.” Even in the flight into Egypt, which has no immediate joy, they still had the Child Jesus with them. Knowing they were safe from the threat to his life would have been a relief too, if not a joy. The third sorrow of the “loss of the Child Jesus in the temple” was soon accompanied by the great joy of finding him again. As we fast-forward to the meeting of Jesus and Mary on the Way of the Cross, we might reflect on the joy and peace found in being with someone you love. In Mary’s case, this meant being with someone she loved with all her heart! Although the scene was flooded with sorrow, wouldn’t there be a faint glimmer of joy in this meeting? With the final two sorrows, I am reminded of the sermon of St. Bernard of Clairvaux which states: “Perhaps someone will say: ‘Had she not known before that he would not die?’ Undoubtedly. ‘Did she not expect him to rise again at once?’ Surely. ‘And still she grieved over her crucified Son?’ Intensely.” I do not intend to diminish the intense sorrow of our Blessed Mother. To see the one you love who is so good and deserving of love be tortured and killed before your eyes—and furthermore, to be his mother—could possibly be the greatest known sorrow by any human person. It is no wonder we honor Mary under the title of Our Lady of Sorrows and sing the Stabet Mater, a hymn honoring her presence at the passion, every time we attend the Stations of the Cross during Lent. Nonetheless, in all of this, Mary had hope; she had love. Would not these virtues also have brought some small sense of joy as well? Although it is not found in scripture, there is a tradition that Mary was the first to see the Christ after his resurrection. She was the first missionary, bringing her unborn child to her relative Elizabeth. Mary, our Mother, is an example to each of us. When we feel overwhelmed with sorrow, we can turn to her, remembering the
intense suffering she went through. We also should remember the joy she found Sister’s in her relationship with Christ. We, Perspective too, can find joy Sister Christina M. amidst sorrow in Neumann our relationship with him. There is good reason that our Franciscan Rule exhorts us, “Let the brothers and sisters keep the example of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of God and of our Lord Jesus Christ, ever before their eyes.” Mary’s obedient “yes” through joy and sorrow is a daily inspiration to each of us. As Franciscans, we have a special devotion to the joys of Mary too, which are meditated upon while praying “The Franciscan Crown” (comparable to a rosary with seven decades). This, however, would be the topic for another article.
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OUR CATHOLIC LIFE
“In memorandum”
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he term in memoriam suggests an act performed or a gift given in Stewardship memory of, or as a Steve Schons memorial to, someone held in high esteem. For example, a person may establish a named endowment fund at the Catholic Development Foundation as a means of perpetually honoring the memory of a loved one. You know about the term in memoriam, but what does in memorandum mean? It’s a term that suggests an estate planning idea you may want to consider—something in addition to funeral suggestions, instructions regarding the distribution and use of personal effects, and other such matters. By memorandum we mean a very personal and lasting collection of thoughts. With your will and other estate planning documents finalized, you may want to take some time and prepare a memorandum, or letter, to your loved ones expressing your thoughts of love and concern. You may want to write a different letter to each family member. Another possibility is to sit in front of a video camera and tape your personal comments. However you do it, this final communication from you will probably be far more cherished than any bequest you may leave behind. It will likely be handed down from generation to generation as a priceless family heirloom. Unlike other estate-planning documents, this personal memorandum goes beyond any legal or probate requirements. You can write it and rewrite it as often as you wish. It can be
completely confidential. Here are some things you may want to include: • Expressions of love and endearment • A summary of your philosophy of life, including your faith, values and beliefs • Thoughts concerning your hopes and expectations for your loved ones • An explanation of why you chose to give to your church or other charity Explaining your motives can be a powerful way to communicate your values and to help your children and grandchildren understand why you supported certain causes during your life. It can be a means to inspire them to follow your example. A final communication to your loved ones, thoughtfully and lovingly prepared, will serve as a lasting reminder of your life and love. It may also help them through the difficult grieving process. And it will help them explain to children yet unborn who you were and what you valued. As a reminder, 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 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, email me at steve.schons@fargodiocese.org, or mail a request to: Steve Schons, Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd, Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104. Schons is director of stewardship and development for the Diocese of Fargo.
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OUR CATHOLIC LIFE
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The language of love and service
uring a recent Catholic conference, I saw a Scripture quote on a poster that read: “Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who calls you to account for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and reverence…” (1 Peter 3:15-16). From the recent scandals in the Church to the continued legal threats to religious liberty, traditional marriage and family and the dignity of human life, the times in which we are living seem catastrophic for Christians. Is there any hope for the future of the Church in western societies like ours? What are we ordinary Catholics to do? St. Peter advised the early Christians to always be prepared, which presupposes we have done our homework. A Dominican speaker at the conference emphasized the need for serious study because standing up for our Catholic faith today requires intelligent answers. But he added that effective evangelization is not purely a matter of intellectual effort; it involves both knowing and authentically living our faith. Actions speak louder than words—and when we do speak, our personal witness of grace can touch hearts more effectively than theological treatises. I think this is what St. Peter meant when he spoke about “the hope that is in you.” This hope is not something remote or academic—it is the living presence of Christ in our hearts. We all share in the pledge of an imperishable inheritance by virtue of our Baptism, but this living hope is not bestowed on the church as a corporate body. It is a promise given to each of us individually as a beloved son or daughter of God. “Christ in you—and in me—for each of us, our hope of glory! (Col. 1:27). If we are tempted to become discouraged in the face of so many threats to our Catholic faith, perhaps it is because we have not yet taken full ownership of the hope that is in us. St. Jeanne Jugan, foundress of the Little Sisters of the Poor, took hold of this living hope and exercised it as confidence in Providence and sure faith in what awaited her in heaven (1 Peter 1:3-4). Jeanne Jugan often reminded the young Little Sisters about the presence of Christ in the tabernacle, in the poor and in their own hearts. She advised them to look to Jesus for strength in all their trials and difficulties. Faced with challenges she would say, “That seems impossible, but if God is with us it will be accomplished.” As strong as her faith and hope were, Jeanne Jugan was fully aware of the limited power of words to win over hearts and souls. She counseled the Little Sisters not to prolong chapel devotions, lest the residents become bored and walk away. She also advised the Sisters not to rush their begging rounds, impetuously blurting out their needs as if they were their due. Finally, she taught the Little Sisters to pray discreetly when out in public so that they would neither draw undue attention to themselves nor offend nonbelievers. In a word, St. Jeanne Jugan taught the Little Sisters to let their humble acts of charity do the talking in drawing others to Christ. The annals of our congregation are filled with stories of elderly individuals who were converted or led back to the practice of
their Catholic faith through the quiet but heroic charity of generations of Little Little Sisters Sisters. Many of the of the Poor speakers at the conSister Constance ference I attended talked about misVeit, LSP sionary discipleship. Even the most wellknown and intellectually intense spoke about service and solidarity with the poor as essential means of evangelization in today’s polarized world. “Nothing is more exhilarating than bringing others to Christ,” George Weigel exclaimed with an enthusiasm that made me want to go out and announce the Good News—knowing that the only convincing way to do this today is through the language of closeness, generous love, and humble service. Sister Constance Veit is director of communications for the Little Sisters of the Poor.
Hurley’s Religious Goods Inc
Serving our faith community Since 1951
1417 S University Dr - Fargo ND 58103 1-800-437-4338 - info@hurleysrg.com NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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WHAT’S HAPPENING
Events across the diocese 177 Project coming to St. Michael’s, Grand Forks
The 177 Project is a nationwide tour designed to bring more people into Eucharistic Adoration. In the fall of 2018, the tour visited 125 different parishes and witnessed 30,000 people attend one of their Adoration evenings. Each night begins with an acoustic concert before moving into a Holy Hour. On Oct. 14, the 177 Project will be visiting St. Michael’s Church in Grand Forks. The evening begins at 7 p.m. and confessions will be available. Free will offering. Matt Faley will be the artist traveling for this event. Visit the177project.com.
All invited to an Ultreya event in Jamestown
The Basilica of St. James in Jamestown will be hosting an Ultreya event on Oct. 19 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. An Ultreya is a gathering to share faith and love of Jesus and encourage others to do the same. Even if you have not attended a Cursillo retreat, you are welcome to come. Bring a potluck dish to share.
St. John’s Church in Wahpeton to host mini retreat
St. John’s Church in Wahpeton is hosting a mini retreat titled Prayer, the Great Spiritual Battle, on Oct. 20 from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. The day will include guest speaker Father Chris Markman, pastor of St. Patrick’s, Enderlin; Holy Trinity, Fingal; and Our Lady of the Scapular, Sheldon as well as adoration and Reconciliation. Free will offering. To register contact the parish at (701) 642-6982 or brandtacb@702com.net.
Catholic Man Night in Hankinson
Join other Catholic men at Catholic Man Night at St. Francis Retreat Center in Hankinson on Oct. 22. The presenter will be Bishop John Folda. Adoration and opportunities for confession from 6 to 7 p.m., followed by dinner and a short discussion. All Catholic men 18 years of age and older are invited.
Relics of St. Padre Pio come to Cathedral of St. Mary
Relics of St. Padre Pio will be available for public veneration on Oct. 23 from 1 to 9 p.m. at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Fargo. Mass in honor of St. Pio will be celebrated at noon by Bishop John Folda. Contact the cathedral at (701) 235-4289 or cathedral@ fargodiocese.org.
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Ministering to faith communities affected by suicide
It’s estimated that one out of every two people has personally been affected by suicide. Soul Shop trains faith community leaders to offer support, hope, and connection to those in their congregations. Join Soul Shop on Oct. 24 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Hjemkomst Center in Moorhead, Minn. Register at afsp.org/soulshopnd.
Theology on Tap for young adults 21 and up
Gather with other young adults at Theology on Tap on Oct. 29 at Front Street Taproom in Fargo. Social hour with food for free will offering and drinks from the bar begins at 5:30 p.m. with speaker Roxane Salonen presenting at 6:30 p.m. The topic is “From ‘Peace Garden Mama’ to pro-life ‘protester’ Finding God on the Sidewalk.”
Steve Ray to keynote St. Paul’s Newman Center banquet
St. Paul’s Newman Center invites you to their annual fundraising banquet on Nov. 7 at the Delta Hotels by Marriott in Fargo. Social hour will begin at 5:30 p.m. with dinner and program from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Keynote speaker for the evening will be Steve Ray, Catholic evangelist, speaking on the importance of campus ministry and how it impacts our parishes. Also speaking will be Father James Cheney, students, and alumni. To register, go to www.bisonCatholic.org or call the Newman Center at (701) 235-0142.
The Creighton Model and NaPro Technology: A Natural Approach to Fertility Care
Discover what every couple needs to know and what every woman has a right to know. Join Mary Johnson, Certified Practitioner of the Creighton Model FertilityCare System and Dr. Jed Perkerewicz, OB/GYN, and Catholic physician at Sanford in Fargo as they share information on applications of the Creighton Model and NaPro Technology. The Creighton Model relies upon the standardized observation and charting of biological markers that are essential to a woman’s health and fertility. NaPro Technology cooperates with a woman’s menstrual and fertility cycles to restore the body’s natural ability to conceive. Unlike other methods of assisted reproduction, which can mask or ignore underlying health issues, NaPro Technology uses information about a woman’s health to identify the cause or factors contributing to fertility difficulties. With the knowledge gained and the problems identified, appropriate action can be taken to correct the situation. Mary and Dr. Jed will be speaking on Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. at the Courtyard by Marriot, Moorhead, Minn. No registration required. Contact ryanmaryjohnson@hotmail.com or (218) 233-6103.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Father Mike Schmitz to deliver annual Prayer Day keynote in Bismarck
Youth invited to March for Life
Youth in grades 9–12 from the Diocese of Fargo are invited to a pilThe University of Mary is honored to welcome grimage to the annual March for Life Father Mike Schmitz to Bismarck for the in Washington D.C. that will take 42nd annual Prayer Day event Nov. 20 at place on Jan. 24, 2020. The trip will 10 a.m., in the McDowell Activity Center begin in Fargo on Jan. 20 and return (MAC). The public is invited to attend FaJan. 26. Father Greg Haman will be ther Schmitz’s keynote entitled “Christian the spiritual director. In addition to Adulting: The Signs of Spiritual Maturity.” participating in the March for Life and Mass for Life at the Basilica Father Schmitz is the director of Youth and of the Immaculate Conception, youth will also see the sights in Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of D.C., Emmitsburg, Md, and Gettysburg, Pa. The cost for the 7-day Duluth and chaplain for the Newman Cenpilgrimage is $860 and includes air and ground transportation, ter at the University of Minnesota Duluth. Advanced online registration is recommended at www.umary. lodging, meals, and tour fees. To obtain a registration form call edu/prayerday. Contact Marianne Hofer at umin@umary.edu (701) 356-7910, or visit www.fargodiocese.org/respectlife. or (701) 355-3704.
Are you trying to cope with life alone? Come to Beginning Experience
Pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Bishop John T. Folda, Oct. 11-21, 2020
Contact Angie Kolb, Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (EOHSJ) Pilgrimage Coordinator, at kolbangie@hotmail.com in order to be given specific information for pilgrimage registration.
The Catholic Church has a support program exclusively for divorced, widowed, and separated people. A Beginning Experience Weekend will be held at Maryvale, near Valley City, Nov. 22–24. It is for Catholics but also for people of other faiths. For more information, contact Bonnie at (701) 318-0949, Marlene at (218) 998-4300, or wild@prtel.com. Visit the website at beginningexperience-easternnd.org.
Grand Forks, ND | normanfuneral.com | 701.746.4337
Catholic Charities North Dakota Sunday Thank you so much from all of us at Catholic Charities. May the Lord bless you as you have blessed us!
WANT TO ADVERTISE IN NEW EARTH? Contact Kristina Lahr (701) 356-7900 newearthads@fargodiocese.org
To watch our video, learn more, or donate, please visit CatholicCharitiesND.org
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NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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John and Irene Janda celebrated their 60th anniversary on Oct. 6. They are lifelong parishioners of St. Luke’s Church in Veseleyville. They have 3 daughters, 11 grandchildren, and 5 great-grandchildren.
Life’s milestones Charles and Marlene Axtman celebrated their 60th anniversary on Sept. 14. They were married at St. Cecelia’s Church in Harvey and are now parishioners at St. James Basilica in Jamestown. They have 4 children, 8 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.
Bert and Grace Steffen celebrated their 60th anniversary on Oct. 3. They were married at St. Joseph’s Church in Devils Lake by Father Maurice Jaeger. They have 3 children, 8 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren.
Kenneth and Florence Bruner celebrated their 60th anniversary on Aug. 22. They were married at St. Margaret Mary Church in Drake and are still parishioners there. They have 4 children 8 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. Peter and Caroline (Leier) Glatt will celebrate their 65th anniversary Oct. 18. Caroline celebrated her 85th birthday on Sept. 3, and Peter will celebrate his 90th birthday on Oct. 29. They have 8 children, 15 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. They are parishioners of St. Francis deSales in Steele. Merlyn and Dolores (Lizakowski) Grabanski, parishioners of St. Stanislaus Church in Warsaw, celebrated their 60th anniversary on Sept. 29. They have four children (one deceased), 9 grandchildren, 1 special niece, and 7 great-grandchildren. Marvin and Cecilia (Kuntz) Heil will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Oct. 19. They were married at Little Flower Church in Rugby and are now parishioners at St. Michael’s Church in Grand Forks. They have 3 children and 3 grandsons.
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and 10 grandchildren.
2 more on the way.
Ann and Gene Lucy will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Oct. 13. They were married at St. Anselm’s Church in Fulda and are now parishioners at Nativity Church in Fargo. They have 3 children James and Sharon (Linzbach) Neva will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Nov. 14. They are parishioners of St. John’s Church in Kensal. They have 4 children, 11 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren with
Doug and Sandi Newgard celebrated their 50th anniversary on Oct. 18. They were married at St. Catherine’s of Lomice (rural Lawton) and are now parishioners of St. Joseph’s Church in Devils Lake. They have 3 children and 9 grandchildren. Emanuel and Leona Volk of Martin celebrated their 60th anniversary on Sept. 7. They have 9 children, 30 grandchildren, and 35 great-grandchildren and are parishioners of St. Cecilia’s Church in Harvey.
On Aug. 17, Sister Janice Ihli, PBVM celebrated her 60th jubilee, and Sister Marilyn Omieczynski, PBVM celebrated her 50th. Sister Janice taught in parish schools in Fargo, New Rockford, and Langdon and served many years in religious formation in parishes and diocesan offices. Sister Marilyn was principal and classroom teacher in parish schools in California and taught in Globe, Ariz. and Salt Lake City, Utah. Leonard and Theresa (Kuntz) Wangler will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Oct. 19. They have 7 children, 12 grandchildren (one deceased), and 2 great-grandchildren. They are parishioners of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Balta.
Wayne and Janice Ward will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Oct. 10. They were married at Sts. Peter and Paul’s Church in Mantador. They are blessed with 4 children, 12 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. Mary Colette (Haut) Eissinger celebrated her 90th birthday on Sept. 13. She was married to Ervin Eissinger for 57 years until his passing in 2006. She is a parishioner of St. Mathias Church in Windsor.
Share life’s milestones
As a way to celebrate life and love, we encourage parishioners throughout the Diocese of Fargo to send a photo and news brief about golden anniversaries and anniversaries of 60 or more years or birthdays of 80 or more years to: New Earth, Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd. S., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104 or news@fargodiocese.org.
A GLIMPSE OF THE PAST 75 years ago — 1944
St. Charles parish of Oakes established a scholarship in memory of Father Patrick Reddin. The first round of contributions brought in three-hundred, sixty dollars of the ultimate $5,000 goal. No finer monument could be erected to perpetuate the memory of a priest than the setting-up of a scholarship through which the work of the priesthood of our Lord Jesus Christ is continued. (Note: The endowment is still active to this day.)
50 years ago — 1969
On October 19, Bishop Leo F. Dworschak dedicated St. John the Baptist Church, Wyndmere. A few weeks prior, neighboring United Methodist Church and American Lutheran Church members joined Father Peter Grady, administrator, for an ecumenical service and open house.
20 years ago — 1999
There was a feeling of excitement as the doors of the St. Thomas Aquinas Newman Center in Grand Forks were opened for the first time after two years of renovations. In January 1997, a light in the Christmas Nativity scene sparked a fire that destroyed
These news items, compiled by Danielle Thomas, were found in New Earth and its predecessor, Catholic Action News.
the interior of the chapel. Mass was held in the auditorium until April when four feet of water engulfed the basement due to massive city-wide flooding. Bishop James S. Sullivan presided at the October 17 consecration Mass with Father Courtright and other former pastors of the Newman Center.
Diocesan policy: Reporting child abuse
The Diocese of Fargo is committed to the protection of youth. Please report any incidents or suspected incidents of child abuse, including sexual abuse, to civil authorities. If the situation involves a member of the clergy or a religious order, a seminarian or anemployee of a Catholic school, parish, the diocesan offices or other Catholic entity within the diocese, we ask that you also report the incident or suspected incident to Monsignor Joseph P. Goering at (701) 356-7945 or Larry Bernhardt at (701) 356-7965 or VictimAssistance@fargodiocese.org. For additional information about victim assistance, visit www.fargodiocese.org/victimassistance. NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT AND CIRCULATION (Act of August 12, 1970: Section 3685) Title 39, United States Code
1. Title of Publication: New Earth. 2. Publication No. 0009526. 3. Date of Filing: September 20, 2019. 4. Frequency of Issue: Monthly, except August. 5. No. of Issues Published Annually: 11. 6. Annual Subscription Price: $9.00. 7. Complete Address of Known Office of Publication: The Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104. 8. Complete Mailing Address of the Headquarters of General Business Offices of the Publisher: The Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104. 9. Names and Address of the Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor. Publisher: Most Reverend John T. Folda, 5201 Bishops Blvd., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104. Editor: Paul Braun, 5201 Bishops Blvd., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104, Kristina Lahr, 5201 Bishops Blvd., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104 10. Owner: The Diocese of Fargo, 5201 Bishops Blvd., Suite A, Fargo, ND 58104. 11. Known bondholders, mortgagees, and other security holders owning or holding 1 percent or more of total amount of bonds, mortgages, or other securities: None. 12. For completion by Nonprofit Organizations Authorized to mail at special rates (Section 132.122 Postal Service Manual): The purpose, function and non-profit status of this organization and the exempt status for Federal Income Tax purposes have not changed during the preceding 12 months. 13. Publication Name: New Earth. 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: September 2019. 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Ave. No. Copies Actual No. Copies Each Issue of Single Issue During Preceding Published Nearest 12 Months to Filing Date A. Total No. Copies (Net Press Run) 23,390 23,316 B. Paid and/or Requested Circulation in-country 23,090 23,019 C. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation 23,090 23,019 D. Free Distribution by Mail (Samples, Complimentary, and Other Free Copies) 125 122 E. Distribution Outside the Mail 125 122 F. Total Distribution 23,215 23,141 G. Copies Not Distributed 1. Office Use, Leftovers, Spoiled 175 175 H. Total 23,390 23,316 I. Percent paid 99.48% 99.47% 16. This Statement of Ownership has been printed in the October 2019 issue of this publication. 17. Signature and Title of Editor, Publishers, Business Manager, or Owner. Paul Braun, Editor
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WHAT’S HAPPENING
Connect with parishes at annual fall celebration Fall festivals are great opportunities to connect with parish communities. The following is a list of fall dinners and festivals submitted to New Earth.
Zeeland: St. Andrew’s Church will host a fall dinner on Oct. 13 beginning at 5 p.m. in the Zeeland City Hall.
West Fargo: Blessed Sacrament Church will serve a pork loin
dinner on Oct. 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Face painting, games, cash raffle, silent auction, prayer cards, country and jewelry stores. Bingo from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Minto: Sacred Heart Church will serve a fall dinner on Nov.
Fingal: Holy Trinity Church will host a fall turkey dinner on Oct. 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bake sale, raffle, quilt and cash raffle.
13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bake sale and RADA Cutlery sale.
Langdon: St. Alphonsus Church will host a fall supper Oct. 13 from 4 to 7 p.m. Cake walk and cash raffle.
Hunter: St. Agnes Church will serve a turkey dinner Oct. 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Takeout meals available.
Fargo: Holy Spirit Church will host a fall festival Oct. 13 from
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Turkey dinner, raffle, silent auction, jewelry, baked goods and candy sale, bingo, kids’ games, cake walk.
McHenry: Sts. Peter and Paul Church will be hosting their
annual soup and sandwich supper Oct. 13 from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m.
West Fargo: Holy Cross Church will serve a stuffed pork loin
dinner on Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kids games, raffle, silent auction, bingo, Yards of Cards, country store, cake walk, jewelry.
Grand Forks: St. Anne’s Guest Home is hosting an autumn
extravaganza on Oct. 26, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Spaghetti dinner, bake sale, crafts, silent auction.
Takeout orders available.
Casselton: St. Leo’s Church will serve a roast beef dinner on
Nov. 3 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Kids games, raffle, silent auction, and country store. Takeout meals available.
Fargo: Nativity Church will host its annual fall festival on Nov.
3 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pork roast dinner, bake sale, jewelry, silent auction, games, cake walk.
LaMoure: Holy Rosary Church will be hosting their annual buffalo dinner and theme basket auction on Nov. 3 from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Take out meals available.
Tolna: St. Joseph Church will host its annual harvest breakfast
Nov. 10 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bake sale and raffle of harvest basket, Goodie basket, and numerous items.
Mooreton: St Anthony’s Church has a fall fish fry on Nov. 15
from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Meat raffles, cash prizes, wine and beer pull game, kids games, silent auction basket.
“In the heart of Mother Church I will be love.” - St. Therese of Lisieux
Is Jesus calling you to “be love” in Carmel? Come and see.
CARMEL OF MARY 17765 78TH ST. S.E., WAHPETON, ND 701-642-2360 • CARMELOFMARY@GMAIL.COM
NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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US & WORLD NEWS
Bishops in US make the Real Presence a focus of their catechesis By Catholic News Agency (Catholic News Agency)
S
ix weeks after a Pew Research study found that only onethird of Catholics in the U.S. believe that the bread and wine become at Mass the body and blood of Christ, bishops across the country are writing to the faithful in the hopes of educating them about this central tenet of the Catholic faith. The study, released in early August, found that 31% of U.S. Catholics they surveyed believe that the bread and wine used in the Eucharist, through a process called transubstantiation, become the body and blood of Christ—a fundamental teaching of the Catholic faith, known as the Real Presence. Bishop Daniel Jenky of Peoria has released his 2020 annual teaching document, The Real Presence, a year early in the hopes of a renewed witness to the Real Presence. “I... ask that this year and in coming years, at parish councils, religious houses, faculty meetings, chaplain meetings, RCIA and catechetical meetings, that our entire Local Church look for ways to reinforce our teaching and witness regarding the Blessed Sacrament,” Bishop Jenky wrote Sept. 16. “It is a defined dogma of the Catholic Church, revealed by the Holy Spirit and preserved from any possibility of error, that the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ are truly and substantially present in the Most Holy Eucharist. This is not an opinion to be measured against any opinion poll but rather Divine Revelation as expressed by the absolute authority of Scripture and Tradition.” In his letter, Bishop Jenky encouraged Eucharistic devotions such as Benediction, processions, visits, holy hours, and quiet times of personal prayer before the tabernacle. “These Eucharistic devotions are obviously also intended to deepen our conscious recognition of the centrality of the Real Presence of Jesus within the liturgy of the Mass,” he wrote. “Quiet Masses, sung Masses, solemn Masses, and especially the
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ordinary ritual Masses for weddings and funerals are certainly great opportunities to witness to our faith in the Eucharist as a pastoral gift to those who may have been poorly catechized or even have fallen away.” The Catechism of the Catholic Church in paragraph 1374 states: “In the most blessed sacrament of the Eucharist ‘the body and blood, together with the soul and divinity, of our Lord Jesus Christ and, therefore, the whole Christ is truly, really, and substantially contained’...it is a substantial presence by which Christ, God and man, makes himself wholly and entirely present.” In the Pew Research study, 69 percent of Catholics surveyed reported their belief that the bread and wine used during the Eucharist “are symbols of the body and blood of Jesus Christ.” This mindset made up a majority in every age group surveyed. “Most Catholics who believe that the bread and wine are symbolic do not know that the church holds that transubstantiation occurs,” Pew reported. “Overall, 43% of Catholics believe that the bread and wine are symbolic and also that this reflects the position of the church. Still, one-in-five Catholics (22%) reject the idea of transubstantiation, even though they know about the church’s teaching.” Interestingly, a small percentage of those surveyed—3%— claimed to believe in the Real Presence despite not knowing that this is what the Church teaches. Bishop Jenky pointed to what he sees as a “noticeable decline in our ritual reverence and recognition” in recent decades. Archbishop Alexander Sample of Portland in Oregon addressed his flock in August regarding the results of the survey. “These results have to be a real wake up call for all of us,” he wrote Aug. 30. “To simply shrug our shoulders at such disturbing news and move on with business as usual is simply not an option. We must do everything in our power to reverse this trend. People will more easily grow lax in the practice of their faith, or drop out altogether, if they don’t understand and believe the mystery we celebrate in the Holy Eucharist and how that drives everything else we do in the ministry of the Church.” Sample challenged those in the archdiocese’s Catholic schools, parish religious education programs, and adult faith formation programs to put a greater emphasis on the Church’s teaching about the Eucharist. He also paralleled Jenky’s assessment of an overall decline in reverence for the Eucharist over the years. “To put it bluntly, we have lost much of the reverence, awe, and respect for the Holy Eucharist that we once had in the Church. How we celebrate the Holy Mass and treat the Blessed Sacrament are at the heart of this,” he said.
US & WORLD NEWS
Apologist Trent Horn offers ways to talk about abortion and life
W
hen Trent Horn sees a state like North Dakota that has only one facility that provides abortions, “it’s incredibly hopeful,” he said. “It Apologist Trent Horn keynotes the Dakota provides an example Hope Clinic annual fundraising banquet at that the fight for life State Fair Center in Minot on Sept. 16. is winnable.” (Dakota Hope) Horn, of San Diego, Calif, was the keynote speaker at the Dakota Hope Clinic annual fundraising banquet held Sept. 16 in the State Fair Center in Minot. He serves as a staff apologist for Catholic Answers, teaching people to graciously engage those who disagree with them. His first work in apologetics was with pro-life efforts on college campuses, and he addressed that topic in Minot. He is the author of nine books, including “Persuasive Pro-Life: How to Talk About Our Culture’s Toughest Issue” and holds master’s degrees in theology, philosophy, and bioethics. At Red River Women’s Clinic in Fargo, the only abortion facility in North Dakota, abortions cost from $650 for women who are four to 11 weeks pregnant to $1,100 for those who are 16 weeks pregnant, according to their website. Dakota Hope Clinic, a pregnancy help center located in Minot, offers services and referrals that they hope will help women facing an unplanned pregnancy make the decision to give birth to their babies rather than to abort them. “All women need support no matter their circumstances,” said Nadia Smetana, director of Dakota Hope Clinic. She said Dakota Hope offers free pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, evidence-based information about the options available to pregnant women, life-affirming education and long-term support. Addressing the crowd of around 900 people in attendance at the banquet, Smetana said that more than half of the clients Dakota Hope Clinic serves are at risk for choosing abortion. However, after receiving services offered by the clinic, at least 90 percent choose to give birth to their babies. “The just, humane, and truly Christian answer to problem pregnancy is for all of us to care for the mother, father, and child alike,” she said. When it comes to talking about the topic of abortion, Trent Horn said, there are two extremes. “Some people want to proclaim the truth loudly and, if people are offended, that’s their problem.” And others “are so concerned about offending someone, they don’t say anything at all.” An effective way to approach the topic, Horn said, is to use the Socratic Method. The online dictionary, Merriam-Webster.
By Tanya Watterud
com, defines the Socratic Method as “the method of inquiry and instruction employed by Socrates... and consisting of a series of questionings the object of which is to elicit a clear and consistent expression of something supposed to be implicitly known by all rational beings.” “Our job is to ask these piercing questions,” Horn said. He gave examples of discussions he has had during debates on college campuses. If someone, for example, said that a woman should be able to abort her third child because she is living in extreme poverty with her two current children and could not afford having another child, the apologist could counter by applying the situation to a two-year-old child. “If she just killed the two-year-old, it would be cheaper and faster than getting an abortion” and then the woman would have more money to take care of her new baby. “Should she be allowed to kill the two-year-old?” the apologist should ask, Horn said. A typical conversation that follows that scenario is “No, she can’t do that.” “Why can’t she?” “That’s totally different.” “How is it different?” Then the person may say the unborn is just a fetus, not a living human being. “We can show that the unborn are alive, human organisms from the time of conception,” Horn said, because they can pass the NET test. Then can develop with the proper nutrition, environment, and time (NET). Horn shared this conversation he had with a college student. Horn asked, “What does abortion do to a fetus?” “It makes it go away.” “To where?” “It dies.” “So it must be alive if it dies?” Even if women understand that their children are living human beings upon conception, they could still make irrational decisions to abort their children because of the pressures they are under, Horn said. “We have to give them truth, plus give them people who can help them see a way out.” The staff members at Dakota Hope Clinic offer both, he said.
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US & WORLD NEWS
Integral ecology: Challenging people to broaden their focus of concern By Carol Glatz | Catholic News Service
Rostan Gustavo Oliveira do Santos, 14, stands at the fence separating his family’s house from huge fields of soybeans in Santarem, Brazil, March 10. (Paul Jeffrey | CNS)
I
ntegral ecology—a phrase often used when discussing the Synod of Bishops for the Amazon—highlights not just the interconnectedness that exists among God, humanity, and creation, but also recognizes how political, economic, cultural, social and religious values, and decisions are interrelated and affect the way people live with one another on the planet and use its resources. Building on previous church teachings, St. John Paul II’s concept of “human ecology” and Pope Benedict XVI’s “ecology of man,” Pope Francis goes one step further with his vision of integral ecology. Pope Francis says humanity faces not just a number of different crises isolated from one another, but one complex crisis that manifests itself in many different ways: the indifference and harm being done to the environment is not only about polluted land, water, and air, but includes dangerous attitudes toward other human beings as well as economic practices that hurt people and the land and resources they depend on. That one complex crisis stems from a defective anthropology that does not recognize and respect the full dignity of others, who are all part of one human family. Such a vision, blinded by greed or self-centeredness, leads to many forms of exclusion, exploitation, and serious offenses against human rights and the environment. The solution, Pope Francis said, is an integral ecology that challenges all people to broaden their focus of concern and their daily behavior to include sustainable environmental ecology; protection of all human life; concrete acts of solidarity with the poor; ethical conduct in economic affairs; greater attention to urban planning to facilitate social relationships and give all people some contact with nature; and protection of people’s cultural heritage in an era when media saturation tends to erase distinctions. In essence, it requires denouncing and converting from a “culture of waste,” in which people and the planet are not treated according to God’s plan. 30
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Integral ecology requires a cultural and spiritual conversion built on a “culture of encounter.” It underlines how relationships should be based on an attitude of caring for one’s common home; one’s brothers and sisters; and one’s relationship with God, the creator. “A sense of deep communion with the rest of nature cannot be real if our hearts lack tenderness, compassion and concern for our fellow human beings,” Pope Francis wrote in his encyclical, Laudato Si, on Care for Our Common Home. Integral ecology demands practical and concrete steps by people who recognize they are co-creators and stewards of God’s creation, who preserve and improve both the natural world, human relationships and economic or global policies and practices. “Everything is connected,” the pope wrote. “Concern for the environment thus needs to be joined to a sincere love for our fellow human beings and an unwavering commitment to resolving the problems of society.”
Sidewalk Stories By Roxane B. Salonen
Sidewalk chalk a success, despite news report
W
hen two new enthusiastic prayer advocates started coming to the sidewalk at our state’s only abortion facility this past summer with a bucket of colorful chalk to write messages of hope, I saw the writing on the wall— uh, sidewalk—or at least I thought I did. But God, through a few young servants and their zeal, proved me wrong. It had been happening off and on for quite a while. I’m not sure if the escorts or the advocates started it, but for years, chalked messages had been showing up there, most vividly during the 40 Days for Life prayer campaign, when the energy at this fateful facility heightens and posters and messages from both sides pop up plentifully. One year the chalked messages written by the escorts, who’d organized a chalk party in anticipation of the annual vigil, was downright vulgar, showing drawings of female sexual parts and raunchy words. While valiant attempts have been made to counter with our own, more uplifting chalk messages, the escorts often rub, sweep, or wash them away. But lately, the message erasers seem to have grown weary, and I find myself sheepish in my prediction that sidewalk chalking is ultimately futile. These determined, optimistic advocates and their persistent pro-life “propaganda” have produced unexpected fruits. Not only are the messages staying longer, but I’ve found myself feeling encouraged upon arriving at the sidewalk each week, greeted by words like, “Superman was adopted,” “You are loved,” “There is hope,” and, “A baby is a gift,” decorated with hearts and smiley faces. A post-abortive friend, who remembered her own dark walk to the door of that ominous building years ago, affirmed the probable success of the messages sharing, “The women are much more likely to see the messages on the ground than anything else, since most are looking down.” Additionally, a few passersby have stopped by with small-cash donations. “Use this to buy more chalk. I love the messages.” And one of our advocates reported from her station one day:
“A random gentleman walking down the sidewalk was very intentionally stopping to read each (chalk message) with a big smile on his face.” One of the pro-life chalk artists says she and her friend simply intended to write positive messages for the women going into the facility, the workers and escorts, and nearby businesses. “What was inspiring to me was that God’s word and truth never came back void. Even if an escort or angry passerby scrubs off the words, those words are still there (in their minds).” Another pro-life artist notes that someone called the police on them twice, but sidewalk messages are legal as long as they’re not permanent. “It’s important to know your rights on the sidewalk,” she said. “The original idea was to write messages of life for the women. Then we realized that the escorts were reading them—even if they were doing so while washing them off.” Despite all this, a recent report in The Forum newspaper, “Fargo businesses and clinic escorts in sidewalk chalk war with anti-abortion protesters,” mentioned “anti-abortion protestors” who “flock to downtown with shocking signage of fetuses and are met with calm volunteer escorts in rainbow vests,” making the escorts seem heroic. The Forum piece frustrated some of the advocates I talked to, but some also commented on how the picture accompanying the story trumped any omission or spin, since the visual often resonates most. Specifically, the photo, run on the front page, showed the sidewalk and one of those “pesky” pro-life sidewalk messages: “You are loved. Your baby is loved. We can help you choose life.” It’s impossible not to smile as one looks down at the colorful, pro-life messages on the sidewalk, to pause and praise the good God who brings life. Love really does win in the end. As fall encroaches, the sidewalk chalk will soon be put away for the season. But in Luke 19:40, we get a hint of the permanence of these messages of life. When the Pharisees ask Jesus to rebuke his disciples for praising God, he replies, “I tell you, if they keep silent, the stones will cry out!” And so, when the snow blankets the ground soon, freezing the rocks embedded into the sidewalk beneath, may the words of hope written upon those stones in warmer weather cry out into our hearts still, ringing loudly for life. Roxane B. Salonen, a wife and mother of five, is a local writer, and a speaker and radio host for Real Presence Radio. Roxane writes for The Forum newspaper and for CatholicMom.com. Reach her at roxanebsalonen@gmail.com. NEW EARTH OCTOBER 2019
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Catholic Diocese of Fargo 5201 Bishops Blvd, Ste. A Fargo, ND 58104
Do you know where we are? The answer will be revealed in the November New Earth.
Where in the diocese are we? 32
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Last month’s photo is from Holy Cross Church in West Fargo.